Shabbat Shalom March 27, 2015

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Spring has Sprung
Shabbat Shalom
March 27, 2015
Dear family and friends,
Pure Michigan
In Michigan, Spring has sprung…up and down.  One day its 60, the next its 20. Snow was in our forecast for today. One thing for sure, the warmer weather is outlasting the colder days and longer sunlight sure beats 5pm darkness.  Soon, blossoms will start to appear and there’s no turning back from there.
Israel Advocacy 
Its no secret that I am a proud Democrat. Yet, I try to express my views (Equal Rights, Environmental Protections, Women’s Rights…) in a respectful manner to avoid offending friends whose opinions fall on the opposite side of the spectrum. However, the one issue that should never be debated is our support for Israel.  The venues to do so are as varied as our opinions (AIPAC, ZOA, JNF, J-Street…).  Historically, our US government has been Israel’s best friend but at times it has also been at odds with our (Democratic diversely populated) Jewish Homeland… Eisenhower forced Israel to withdraw from the Sinai in the 50s, Bush (Sr.) withdraw military support in the 90s and other US Administrations have had their reprimanding moments. It is our jobs as Diaspora Jews and Israel Advocates to speak up (to friend, legislators, uninformed…) in support of Israel’s basic right to exist.  We also need to fight when lines are crossed and the fake based rhetoric becomes Anti-Semitic and Anti-Israel like this week’s Chicago Tribune cartoon which causes a snowball effect that gathers more lies to fuel our enemies.
Israel Watch
If an alien landed at the UN, he would be convinced that Israel is the root of all evil as no other country has more condemnations than the Jewish Homeland. Just this week, the UN’s Commision on the Status of Women condemned Israel for the plight of the Palestinian Women.  No chastation of Iran, Saudi Arabia, Afghanistan or Syria where many women fear for their lives. Nope, just Israel must be criticized. Check out the video embeded in this article of (new Saba/Grandfather) Israeli UN ambassador Ron Prosors‘ brilliant response to the discriminatory report as he references his first granddaughter born this month.
Though sometimes the truth does prevail. Also this week,Amnesty International corrected the blame of violence for last Summer’s Gaza War and focused it back on Hamas where blame is due. http://www.haaretz.com/news/diplomacy-defense/.premium-1.648902  Another initiative to watch about Israel is the upcoming documentary from HBO based on Ari Shavit’s eye-opening book “My Promised Land”
And, lastly from this region, though Christians are the majority in much of the world, they are the minority and in distress in most of the Middle East.  Most (but not all) because the only place they are safe is Israel.  Check out this interactive map from the website Christian Solidarity International.  You can zoom in on the Middle East and see the absence of concern in Israel and the need for protection from Christian genocide in all the surrounding countries. http://csi-usa.org/persecution.html
Attempts for Peace throughout the years
Roots and Wings
Some insist we shrink our governmental agencies to make them less intrusive and less regulated, yet our Child Protective Services seems to have stretched in the opposite direction. The specific situation occurred in January when a couple (they happened to be Israelis living in the DC area) allowed their two children (ages 10 and 6) to walk home from the local park.  The police picked up the kids and the parents were charged with Unsubstantiated Child Neglect requiring them to commit to a Safety Plan under threat of placing them in Foster Care. The parents, justifiably, are fighting to dismiss the charge and allow them to determine their own children’s responsibility levels. My parenting guru has always been Wendy Mogel author of “Blessing of the Skinned Knee” as I am more of a Free Range Parent than a Helicopter Mom.  Roots and Wings are the best tools we can give our kids to help them become independent confident adults. Its a balancing act to keep them safe yet allow them to learn from their mistakes.
Licence to Limit
Abortions are legal yet women’s access to them is threatened everyday.  And when access is limited, desperate women returned to desperate and dangerous alternatives.  If the anti-abortion activists were genuine in their efforts to limit abortions, they would focus on pregnancy prevention. However the opposite holds true as they prefer to limit birth control information and insist on celibacy often directed only at girls; forgetting it takes two to tango. Our Republican-led Michigan Senate has just approved a Right to Life licence plate where proceeds will benefit their anti-abortion mission.  Its next stop is the Repub-led House where passage is expected there as well. There are 27 other MI fundraising licence plates benefiting Universities, Cancer Research, Children, Lighthouses…
but this is the first one to benefit the efforts to limit access to a legal procedure.
http://www.freep.com/story/news/politics/2015/03/18/choose-life-license-plate-approved-state-sente/24958789/  and check out this excellent Rolling Stone aritcle that points out 5 reasons we need to continue fighting to keep Choice a legal option:  http://tinyurl.com/RS5reasons

In another state and another issue, Texas is grappling with allowing the Confederate Flag on their licence plates.  Their controversy is now in front of the Supreme Court.  They are hoping to get the Texas (and SCOUS) stamp of approval forSons of Confederate Veterans, regardless of their offensive message of White Supremacy, just as Michigan has given their stamp of approval to the anti-abortion group.

Moratorium Needed
There are 591 days until the 2016 elections. Shouldn’t there be moratorium on campaigns?  In my world, it would be 365 days. One year is plenty of time to convince someone to vote for you. And while we’re at it, let’s limit our campaign spending. How about $1 million for presidential candidates compared to the $1 Billion (per side) that was wasted on the last election. Citizens United is a poison in our society and needs to be overturned sooner rather than later. Those with opposite views to mine would say we live in a democracy so no campaign regulations are needed but I’d argue creating a level playing field is the most democratic way to elect our officials.  Mr. Ted Cruz is now, officially, our 27th declared candidate*.  His stance on so many issues are too extreme to satisfy most American voters, but it will be interesting to see how his supporters spin his Canadian birth with an American Mother when those same people balked at Obama’s legitimate American birth but with the same citizenship of his mother.
Musical Opportunity Goodies galore are up for grabs when supporting this Musical Initiative (Album and Promo Tour) of these very talented Folk Singer/Songwriters.  Coincidentally, the bango player/vocalist,Liat Tova Lis, has the same last name as us and her punimgraces our family albums.  If you’d like to hear a sample of their music, check out this site and support at your pleasure.  The donations start at $5 and their goal by May 3rd is to raise $6,000. https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/caitlinjemma/caitlin-jemma-and-the-goodness-full-length-album-a

This is a sign Passover is nearly upon us:

Charoset flavored Ben & Jerry’s. 
Sweet Tunes
Wishing you a Sweet and Meaningful charoset eating Passover holiday.  More info on Passover in next week’s Shabbat message. But in the meantime, two very talented groups of musicians took my favorite Bruno Mars song and created these Hip-Hop Passover Videos. Which do you like best?
I’m prone to this AISH version since good pal, Michael HarPazis the lead: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9v3xjf1kGlg
Also enjoy this Six13 rendition: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7Q7Jo7FkLH4 Both are great and serve to help retell our Passover Story of Freedom and Redemption.
Kol Hakavod (Go with Strength)
Mazel Tov to Brian Satovsky on winning The Frank A. Wetsman Leadership Award.

Mazel Tov to Regina Colton on winning The Sylvia Simon Greenberg Leadership Award

Mazel to Adam Blanck on winning The Mark-Lis Family Young Leadership Award.

Single Take

Congrats to new Late Late Show host James Corden on his premiere week with special guest, Tom Hanks. If you are a Tom Hanks fan and you’ve got 7 minutes to spare, check out James and Tom recreating various memorable scenes from Tom’s film career. http://www.liftable.com/ryantofil/tom-hanks-recreated-his-movies-in-a-single-take-awesome/

Wishing you and your loved ones a Sweet and Peaceful Shabbat Shalom. 

Lisa

* Bet you thought Ted Cruz was one of the first to declare.

Nope… here is the official list:
http://2016.presidential-candidates.org/#Declared-Presidential-Candidates

Dr. Charles Tenner z”l
My thoughts and prayers are with Ellen Tenner, Karen and Todd Sachse and their entire family on the passing of their beloved patriarch, Dr. Charles Tenner z”l.  If his family legacy is any indication of his personality, he surely was a wonderful man since his wife, children and grandchildren are truly wonderful people. May his memory bring comfort to all who loved him and may his spirit live on in the souls of his descendants.
Tragic Crash
Condolences to the family and friends of the victims of the French Alps plane crash. As the flight was travelling between Spain and Germany, most of the victims were from those two countries, however citizens from many other countries were also on board including Argentina, Kazakhstan, UK, US, Australia, Colombia, Iran, Japan, Mexico, Morocco, Venezuela, Belgium, Chile, Denmark, Israel, Netherlands and Turkey.  High School students, Opera singers, Fashion designers, newlyweds and families all perished from the suicide/murder of the pilot.  May their memories and spirit be a blessing to those who loved them.
 
April 14th
Emily Stillman Foundation
Night of Laughs with The Second City
Berman Theater at the West Bloomfield JCC
Raising awareness about meningitis, organ donation and the importance of vaccinations.
April 26th (Sunday)
Send a Kid to Tamarack event
Adat Shalom
Enjoy a Magical Night with Magician and Mentalist
Oz Pearlman
For more info, please contact Laura Adler
adler@tamarackcamps.com
April 29th (Wednesday)
Jewish Women’s Foundation
11:30am-2:00pm
The Colony Club, Detroit
Women Lighting the Way
Guest Speaker: Kim Worthy (as her name fits) Wayne County Prosecutor who is on a mission to rectify the 11,000 untested rape kits.  Ms. Worthy will be introduced by Mayor Duggan.
http://www.jwfdetroit.org/event/women-lighting-the-way/
May 1st 
Forgotten Harvest Comedy Night
8:00pm
Detroit Opera House
Featuring:
Joel McHale
(NBC Community and The Soup)
For more details and ticket info:
May 3rd
Jewish Senior Life
11:30am
8 over 80 presentations
Adat Shalom Synagogue
For more info:
248-592-1101 or mbuda@jslmi.org
May 7th
Orchards Children’s Services
6:00-9:00pm
Signature Event
Colony Club, Detroit
For more info, please contact Fern Kepes
fkepes@orchards.org
May 17th 
Hillel Day School Annual Dinner
(My Alma Mater)
Honoring:
Audrey and William Farber with Dream Maker Award
Bob Canvasser with Rabbi Jacob Segal (z”l) Award
For more info, please contact Amy Schlussel
aschlussel@hillelday.org
248-539-1484
May 18th
Planned Parenthood Annual Luncheon
The Henry (Dearborn)
Guest Speaker: Senator Wendy Davis
For more info: http://www.ppmsm.org/AL/
Happy Birthday
A big one I missed last week:
March 25th
Milton Ring Happy 90th!
March 27th
Yosef Lis z”l (would have been 90)
Mitch Mondry
Randy Wolfe
March 28th
Marianne Milgrom Bloomberg
Wendy Danzig
March 29th
Bubba Urdan
Marc Morganstern
Dan Horwitz
Glenn Plummer
March 30th
Andy Meisner
March 31st
Charlie Kao
Jennifer Champagne
Lisa Ross
Josh Stone
Russell Orley (woof, woof)
April 1st
Jon Frank
Gilda Jacobs
April 2nd
Laura Freedman

Blue Stripes

 

Shabbat Shalom March 27, 2015

Shabbat Shalom March 20, 2015

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Shabbat Shalom
March 20, 2015
Dear family and friends,
Drum Roll…
The winner of the Israeli elections (for the 4th time), is
Bibi Netanyahu.  I strongly feel a change is needed but those who live and breath in the Country are the ultimate deciders. At the 11th hour Bibi declared “no Palestinian State under his watch”, backtracking his previous acceptance of a Two State solution. This Right Wing appeasement helped garner his victory, though now that he won, he’s flopped back to the Two State possibility.  It is now Bibi’s job to form a bond with other parties to guide Israel into the Peaceful Future.
True Democracy
Israel is the only democracy in the Middle East and their election process is proof in the pudding, though many haters like to demonize her as apartheid or racist (equals Zionism according to the United Nations). All citizens, over 18, regardless of Race, Religion, Ethnic background (even convicts) are eligible to vote and their access to the polls makes our US process look restrictive. 71.8% of voters turned out this week which is the highest rate since 1999. Votes are cast for a Party (not a person) and whichever party has enough leverage building a 61 (or more) seat coalition, runs the country. To better understand the system, check out this brief animated video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rzpWIXg3HtM&app=desktop
Such a young country…only 12 past PMs.
Road Work
On May 5th, Michiganders will also go to the polls to cast our vote for Proposal 1 which is designed to fix our weathered infrastructure. Our roads are so bad, a local ice cream company dedicated a new flavor called Michigan Pothole. I assume sales will soar as a sweet and comic relief, though no proceeds will help deal with this serious problem. Prop. 1 might not be the perfect solution but since no credible alternative is offered, it is our only chance to patch up our problem. Basically, the proposal will increase our sales tax from 6% to 7% with several other tax adjustments but bottom line it will generate over $1 Billion per year for our roads and over half a Billion per year for Schools, Cities, Mass Transit and General Funds by 2018. Partisan politics intervened with the altruistic crafting of the proposal but hopefully the dismal conditions of our pavement will prove positive for this proposal.
Hero Status
With more ice cream news, Happy 75th birthday to Dairy Queen! Did you pick up your free cone last Monday (MI DQs are giving away the free cones today, March 20th, first day of Spring aka Spring Equinox). And of course, I can’t talk about Dairy Queen without mentioning its owner and my hero,
Warren Buffett.  Here is a 90 second video of why the humble, philanthropic, smart WB tops my admiration list:
Funds Depleted
Our nation’s infrastructure is also battling disarray and our repair funding source is gauging near empty.  The Highway Trust Fund was created in 1956, feeding its pool with various Federal Fuel Taxes.  May 31st is the deadline when funds might run dry.  No one seems poised to create a long-term cure for this tax ailment and short-term stopgaps have been Congress’ recent medicine. John Oliver (my go-to guy) created a humorous and educational piece on this topic:
$32 Billion Industry
Disgraceful, disgusting and dysfunctional is the only way to describe the actions of Congress this week when attempting to prevent 21st century slavery through Human Trafficking.  A Bipartisan Bill was suppose to increase penalties of this despicable crime with fines set aside to assist the victims. But conservatives amended the bill to prevent funds from being used for abortions. And to add more politicking to the mix, our Senate Leader McConnell has decided not to bring forth the vote to confirm the highly qualified (and 1st African American) Attorney General, Loretta Lynch.  Congress needs a lesson in Kindergarten Playground Rules.
Stop Human Trafficking!
 
Kol Hakavod 
(Go with Strength)
…to our Detroit Institute of Art’s exhibit “Diego Rivera and Frida Kahlo in Detroit” 
…to the prosecutors who will be fighting to finally put Robert Durst behind bars.  They now think he may have killed even more than the 3 known victims.
… to the families of the recent terrorist attack (20 deaths and 50 injuries) in Tunisia which was the first nation of the Arab Spring.
…to Elton John and others on shaming Dolce & Gabbana for their attack on alternative families.
…to Michael Douglas on his fight against Anti-semitism after his son experienced it for the first time:
…to these tweets to the #AskHamas Twitter account:
… to Mohammad Zoabi for his decision to join the IDF. Mohammad is a Muslim Israeli Arab and the cousin of an ardent anti-Israel Knesset member, Hanin Zoabi.
…to Florida Congressman Ted Deutch for his commitment to “Brave the Shave” (in other words shave his head) in support of pediatric Cancer research through the St. Baldricks Foundation: https://www.stbaldricks.org/participants/teddeutch
…to the 5 best Hummus places in Tel Aviv:
…to the Israeli Supreme Court for upholding the ruling that anyone of any religion should be able to pray on the Temple Mount, though Muslims feel it should be sacred to only their religion and fight to keep it homogeneous so Israeli security guards try to keep the peace by denying access to non-Muslims. http://www.jpost.com/Israel-News/Jerusalem-court-upholds-Jewish-prayer-on-Temple-Mount-392744
…to the gardeners who cared for the wounded 9/11 tree which stood in front of the Twin Towers and was recently returned to its downtown home: http://tinyurl.com/9-11-tree-returns-home
…to Michigan State Rep. Mike Callton for being the sole Republican to vote against a bill that would allow Faith Based Adoption Agencies to refuse services to LGBT families.  Sadly the bill passed along party lines but at least we have one
conscientious Republican Legislator who bravely voted against discrimination. If you’d like to thank him, here is his website:
Paul McCartney will induct Ringo Starr into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame (as the last single Beatle to be inducted)
“It don’t come easy”: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jZfAik7wP8U and Stevie Wonder will induct Bill Withers. With so many great songs, “Ain’t No Sunshine”, “Lovely Day”, “Lean on Me”, “Grandma’s Hands”… I had a hard time choosing but I couldn’t resist this 1973 BBC (29 minute) concert because I noticed Bill was wearing (our own) Pine Knob Music Theatert-shirt. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qtT_8pEjHgo
Wishing you and your loved ones a Sweet and Peaceful Shabbat Shalom. 

Lisa

Mazel Tov
new grandparents
Heidi and Jeffrey Budaj
on the arrival of baby
Grayson.
 
April 14th
Emily Stillman Foundation
Night of Laughs with The Second City
Berman Theater at the West Bloomfield JCC
Raising awareness about meningitis, organ donation and the importance of vaccinations.
April 26th (Sunday)
Send a Kid to Tamarack event
Adat Shalom
Enjoy a Magical Night with Magician and Mentalist
Oz Pearlman
For more info, please contact Laura Adler
adler@tamarackcamps.com
April 29th (Wednesday)
Jewish Women’s Foundation
11:30am-2:00pm
The Colony Club, Detroit
Women Lighting the Way
Guest Speaker: Kim Worthy (as her name fits) Wayne County Prosecutor who is on a mission to rectify the 11,000 untested rape kits.  Ms. Worthy will be introduced by Mayor Duggan.
http://www.jwfdetroit.org/event/women-lighting-the-way/
May 1st 
Forgotten Harvest Comedy Night
8:00pm
Detroit Opera House
Featuring:
Joel McHale
(NBC Community and The Soup)
For more details and ticket info:
May 3rd
Jewish Senior Life
11:30am
8 over 80 presentations
Adat Shalom Synagogue
For more info:
248-592-1101 or mbuda@jslmi.org
May 7th
Orchards Children’s Services
6:00-9:00pm
Signature Event
Colony Club, Detroit
For more info, please contact Fern Kepes
fkepes@orchards.org
May 17th 
Hillel Day School Annual Dinner
(My Alma Mater)
Honoring:
Audrey and William Farber with Dream Maker Award
Bob Canvasser with Rabbi Jacob Segal (z”l) Award
For more info, please contact Amy Schlussel
aschlussel@hillelday.org
248-539-1484
May 18th
Planned Parenthood Annual Luncheon
The Henry (Dearborn)
Guest Speaker: Senator Wendy Davis
For more info: http://www.ppmsm.org/AL/
Happy Birthday
March 20th
Ali Benyas
March 21st
Sarah Krasnick
March 22nd
George Austin Orley z”l 
Jacquelyn Pierce
March 23rd
Elinor Ross
Lindsay Wainer Dembs
Judy Hocher
Lee Ross
Rod Brown
March 24th
Missy Klass Siegler
Beth Gotthelf
Rachel Bendit
Anita Naftaly
Marilyn Madorsky
Mitchell Shector
March 25th
Aunt Chilly Revich (104)
Loren Stewart
Linda Levine Blumstein
Rabbi Eric Yanoff
Kelli Saperstein
March 26th
Michael Curhan
Wendy Zelch Eisenshtadt

Blue Stripes

 

Shabbat Shalom March 20, 2015

Shabbat Shalom March 13, 2015

lisamarklisLeave a comment

Shabbat Shalom
March 13, 2015
Dear family and friends,
“All my life I’ve been waiting for,
I’ve been praying for…”
Sadly marches in Selma, Ferguson, Detroit, DC… are still needed today. Those at the Edmund Pettus Bridge this past weekend, including our President, reiterated the progress we’ve made, but acknowledged the transgression we’ve experienced (like the disgraceful actions of Sigma Alpha Epsilon at OU*) and the momentum needed for the future. It will only occur when we all see the virtue in our differences and work together for the common goal of true equality.
“Turn and Face the Strain 
Ch Ch Ch Changes..”
Nothing can or should stay the same.  We are a dynamic and evolving society and it is (beyond) time, after 75 years since it was built and 50 years after Bloody Sunday, to change the name of the Edmond W. Pettus Bridge.  Mr. Pettus was a adamant defender of segregation and before that slavery. He spewed his hatred as KKK Grand Dragon in 1896 and then continued his racism in the more prestigious venue of the US Senate from 1897-1907.  Selma currently has a population of 80% African Americans and surely they deserve a Bridge name that doesn’t offend and remind them of hatred and discrimination. It is time the State of Alabama, the City of Selma and the National Park Service take action.  Here is a petition from Change.org that is nearing it 200,000 signature goal:
If I could save time in a bottle
The first thing that I’d like to do…
Though Daylight Savings Time, this year, brought Spring weather to Michigan, it still is considered an antiquated system.  We should just pick a time and stick to it. John Olivier showcased the absurdity and history (no, it’s not for the farmer) of DST in this hilarious video:
“I am woman, hear me roar, 
in numbers too big to ignore”
20 Years ago, the Fourth World Conference (held in Beijing) studied the status of Women and not surprisingly, results showed excessive discrimination, abuse and inequality for (the female) half of the world’s population. Well, this week the UN confirmed what most already knew, that women are still at extreme risk throughout most societies. Government delegates from across the globe are convening at the UN headquarters this week to assess efforts instituted back in Beijing in 1995. Some advancement are apparent, such as a decrease in maternal mortality and higher percentage of girls enrolled in school but these positive trends are outweighed by serious concerns like domestic abuse (legal in some countries) and the increase of human trafficking. There is much more work to be done before women of the world are respected like their male counterparts.
“We can not ALL succeed when half of us are held back”
Malala Yousafzai
“I’m pickin’ up good vibrations, 
he’s giving me excitations”
To paraphrase Chris Rock, only President Obama can end 2 Wars, eliminate Bin Laden, bring Gas Prices down by 2 bucks, decrease Unemployment to 5.5% (while it continues to drop), help save our Auto Industry, expand our Economy (64 months in a row), decrease the Federal Budget Deficitand provided Health Insurance to 11 million people and still be called a failure. I hope the future history books will set the record straight on Obama’s legacy.
“Doctor, Doctor, give me the news, 
I’ve got a bad case of lovin you”
ObamaCare has proven to all that it is not a job killer nor an economy destroyer (new indicators estimate even lower Health Care Costs than anticipated**) but this doesn’t stop the (over 50) congressional attempts to repeal it and now the 2nd visit to the Supreme Court to overturn it.  This current case,
King V Burwell, is attacking the State Exchanges that would affect 75% of the newly insured. If the Supreme Court rules in favor of King (Virginia residents who brought the case) and against Burwell (our US Secretary of Health and Human Services), it would seriously throw a monkey wrench in the system essentially pulling the insurance rug from nearly 8 million people and not providing an alternative solution. It seems to be a split court now and just like the last court case, Chief Justice Roberts will probably make the final decision. Let’s hope he again saves the day.  A vote could take place as early as (today) March 13th but the opinion might not be known till June.
Oh yes, wait a minute Mister Postman…
You’re damned if you do and damned if you don’t… We went to war in Iraq and abstained in Syria yet the evil Daesh (self proclaimed Islamic State) wreaks havoc in both countries plus Libya and beyond.  Now Nigeria’s resident terrorist organization, Boko Harem has pledged allegiance to the Daesh Hatred. How and when will this spreading disease be stopped…?  Though Iran and Daesh are not friends, certainly we don’t want Iran to possess nuclear capabilities with their bulls-eye on Israel and their terrorist tentacles across the globe. Will a safe deal be made as the dealmaking deadline approaches?  Sending an open letter to Iran signed by 47 Republican Senators was a useless, polarizing, idiotic idea. Even some Republicans criticized it.  One thing it did do was spotlight the young Freshman Senator from Arkansas, Tom Cotton who instigated the letter. Let’s see what other shenanigans this Senator displays during his Senatorial career.
Senator Tom Cotton, age 37
“Time keeps on slippin, slippin, slippin 
into the future”
Running out of time and space with this week’s email has forced me to tickle your fancy for next week’s topics of the deplorable conditions of our Michigan Roads and our May 5th vote on Prop. 1, not to mention the deterioration of our countries infracture and the insolvency of our Highway Trust Fund (quickly running out of money), in addition to the continuing saga of Emailgate,  plus the results of Israel’s election. These issues and many others will be addressed next week…till then, enjoy some music.
 
Harmony
Last’s week inclusion of these quintessential 60s era female voices covering Bob Dylan’s “I Shall Be Released” was missing. I was having trouble with this youtube of Mama Cass, Joni Mitchell and Mary Travers.  I hope this one works: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sEZFt5ZZj9s
USA for Africa
30 years ago the biggest names in the music industry converged at a studio (after the AMA awards) to record the iconic “We are the World” (released March 7, 1985).  It was overplayed during its time but this classic still have meaning and prestige:
SXSW March 13-22
Film, Music, Technology… South by Southwest SXSW (Austin, TX) starts this weekend.  It is on my Bucket List and would love to attend one year. Here’s their website: http://sxsw.com/
And here’s their promo video:
Trombonist with a message
40 Million Americans have student loans which is more debt than is owed to Credit Cards. This is a serious problem that Congress needs to address.  It started out fine in 1958 when it was developed but it has morphed into a monster.  For more info, check out this music video by Paul The Trombonist (activist/musician) though take some of his 5 minute musical interlude with a grain of salt; the end has some very interesting facts: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2-fvDSi_kWg
March 17th
For those of you who celebrate the patron saint of Ireland…Happy St. Patricks Day!  Apparently, the lenten restriction of alcohol consumption is lifted on this day…hence the appearance to green beer.
Wishing you and your loved ones a Sweet and Peaceful Shabbat Shalom. 

Lisa

* Shame on University of Oklahoma frat SAE for their racist chant that included the “N” word and was caught on tape.  The South (and other corners of our country) continue to be riddled with racism but seem to elude videotaping.

http://www.cnn.com/2015/03/09/us/sigma-alpha-epsilon-fraternity/

** Lower Health Care Costs article:

http://www.nytimes.com/2015/03/10/us/politics/budget-office-again-reduces-its-estimate-on-cost-of-the-affordable-care-act.html?_r=0

Condolences to Beth Gotthelf and Steven Miesowicz and their family on the passing of Beth’s brother, Dennis Gotthelf z”l. May his spirit and memory bring comfort to those who loved him. May he rest in peace.
This poem by Judi Schram touched a cord…
Moments
The day you met
first time you kissed
first fight you had
(not all is bliss)the day you wed
first baby’s cry
you quit your job?
your pet dog died

a gift ‘just cause’
your favorite meal
I love you so
some truth concealed

kids make you proud
kids pull apart
kids challenge you
fill up your hearts

the first health scare
no solid ground
a chasm opened
but hope’s unbound

until that day
we know will come
when gift of life
is almost done

these moments all
good, bad…together
these moments all
you’ll have forever.
April 14th
Emily Stillman Foundation
Night of Laughs
Raising awareness about meningitis, organ donation and the importance of vaccinations.
April 26th (Sunday)
Send a Kid to Tamarack event
Adat Shalom
Enjoy a Magical Night with Magician and Mentalist
Oz Pearlman
For more info, please contact Laura Adler
adler@tamarackcamps.com
May 1st  
8:00pm
Detroit Opera House
Forgotten Harvest Comedy Night
Featuring:
Joel McHale
(NBC Community and The Soup)
For more details and ticket info:
May 3rd
11:30am
Jewish Senior Life
8 over 80 presentations
Adat Shalom Synagogue
For more info:
248-592-1101 or mbuda@jslmi.org
May 7th
6:00-9:00pm
Orchards Children’s Services
Signature Event
Colony Club, Detroit
For more info, please contact Fern Kepes
fkepes@orchards.org
May 17th 
Hillel Day School Annual Dinner
(My Alma Mater)
Honoring:
Audrey and William Farber with Dream Maker Award
Bob Canvasser with Rabbi Jacob Segal (z”l) Award
For more info, please contact Amy Schlussel
aschlussel@hillelday.org
248-539-1484
May 18th
Planned Parenthood Annual Luncheon
The Henry (Dearborn)
Guest Speaker: Senator Wendy Davis
For more info: http://www.ppmsm.org/AL/
Mazel Tov to Aria Oleshansky and Katie Radner on becoming B’nai Mitzvah this weekend.
Happy Birthday
Missed from last week…
March 12th
(Nephew) Peace Dorn (Happy 1st birthday)
March 13th
Erica Sachse
March 14th
Jim Zack
Abbe Sherbin
Dylan Dembs
Melissa Slaim Dyer
Rob Spiegelman
March 15th
Aria Oleshansky (Mazel Tov)
Debbie Levin
Heidi Budaj
Tom Kukes
March 16th
Rabbi Marla Hornsten
Nathan Elyakin
March 17th
Michael Berke
Patrick Mardney
March 18th
Jeremy Cohn
Patrick Duggan
Jennifer Harmon
March 19th
Kelly Rogers Victor
Connie Gustafson

Blue Stripes

 

Shabbat Shalom March 13, 2015

Shabbat Shalom March 6, 2015

lisamarklisLeave a comment

Shabbat Shalom
March 6, 2015
Dear family and friends,
Frigid Feb.
The last time February was this cold was in 1875 when Ulysses S. Grant was president, when the first battery-powered dentist’s drillwas patented (by George F. Green of Kalamazoo, MI) and when Ferdinand Porsche was born (designer of the Volkswagen beetle).  Let’s hope it takes another 140 years before we experience a repeat of last month’s frigidity.  Onto March which is Peanut Month, Umbrella Month, Literacy Month and Women’s History Month among other celebrations. And don’t forget to Spring Forward this Saturday evening at 2am, which means we lose an hour but gain some daylight.
Does Shivering count as exercise?
Standing Os
By the media coverage and general obsession, it felt like we were witnessing the Speech of the Century. Prime Minister Bibi Netanyahu was welcomed to the Joint Congressional Session like a King to his court and was showered with 26 Standing Ovations. The Talking Heads agreed he categorically expressed the clear and present danger of Iran. Though was his goal of altering the Iran Nuclear Agreement (approaching its March 24th deadline) reached. Personally, I don’t think Iran deserves any nuclear program, be it…medical, energy and certainly not weaponry. But that limitation would be too dictatorial for the democratic Nations involved in the negotiations. I agree with Bibi’s description of Iran’s “hide and cheat” tactics. We just can’t trust them and must believe their intent of wanting to wipe Israel off the face of the Earth and do everything in our power to circumvent their capabilities. But a different dimension to the Speech dominated the media conversation. Did the protocol of the invitation and the partisan reactions cause damage to our collective political support for Israel? All sides are to blame for this fiasco. Bibi’s motives were in question as the timing of the speech bumped up against his March 17th re-election. Repubs should not have invited Bibi without pre-dialogue with the White House. Dems should not have played into the blame game squarely questioning bi-partisan support of Israel feeding directly into the anti-Israel propaganda machine. And shame on those 60 Dems lawmakers who, after all said and done, still decided to boycott the speech. This boycott was unprecedented as never before in congressional history have 60 members missed a Joint Session. Did these legislators harm their Jewish support by not attending the speech? Historically, 70% of American Jews vote Democratic. Here are just a few of the boycotters:
Rep. John Conyers (Mich.)
Rep. Jan Schakowsky (Ill.)
Sen. Al Franken (Minn.)
Sen. Tim Kaine (Va.)
Sen. Patrick Leahy (Vt.)
Sen. Bernie Sanders (Indepentent-Vt.)
Sen. Elizabeth Warren (Mass.)
Sen. Sheldon Whitehouse (RI) 

As a contributor to many Democratic candidates, my reluctance will come into play the next time a solicitation calls is received from Sen. Al Franken’s office.  And Shame on President Obama (and his surrogates) for participating in the ” Blame Game”. He and his circle should have said Nothing and certainly should not have said he wasn’t planning to watch the speech (though he did read the transcript).  Hopefully we can move on from this Saga and repair any damage done to the essential bipartisan support of Israel.

Bibi at the Joint Session
Good Choice
Logically (since Austin, San Francisco and Tel Aviv are the world’s friendliest Tech Cities), Apple has chosen Herzliya (a Tel Aviv neighbor) as the new home for their second largest Research and Development Center because of the immense brain power coming out of Israeli Universities (like Technion). Apple’s CEO Tim Cook travelled to Israel this week to inaugurate the project. Environmental concerns were prominent on Cook’s mind as the Herzliya glass building is one of the “Greenest” for Apple and the State of Israel.
Tim and Bibi
Unwelcome Consequences
As Apple was building initiatives for the future, the world’s arch enemy, Daesh* (in Iraq) was decimating history with the demolition of 3,000 year old priceless statues and blowing up a library filled with rare manuscripts. Back in 2002, these words of warning about the Iraq War were made by
President Bill Clinton and they couldn’t be more true…

“As a preemptive action today, however well-justified, may come back with unwelcome consequences in the future”. Aside from the nearly 5,000 US casualties, Daesh is our main unwelcome consequences from that era.  It seems the evil intent and actions of these terrorist continue to escalate into even more barbarism (if that is even possible). This latest destruction of cultural antiquities is reminiscent of the Taliban’s pulverization of the ancient Buddha statues in March 2001, exactly 14 years ago this month.

* Daesh (means “trample down” or “crush”) is the derogatory name they don’t like that is given to them by the regional entities. They want to be called IS or Islamic State, of which, they are neither.
South Korea
Wishing a (Refuah Shlema) rapid recovery to our USAmbassador Mark Lippert as he was slashed with a knife at a Breakfast Meeting this week in South Korea.  The perpetrator has a history of attacking ambassadors to (violently) support a reunification of Korea.  Also on the Korean front, South Korea just eliminated a six decade old law that criminalized adualtry. After effects included increased stock value of companies that produce Condom and The Pill… no joke:
Shine and Shame
 
Shine on Israel and Jordan for last week’s signing of the historic water agreement which will save the shrinking Dead Sea and quench the thirst of both nations:
 
Shame on Ferguson, MO as a Federal report announced this week the despicable Racial Bias against their Black community which they used to their financial benefit.
Shine on Wayne State University for honoring Viola Gregg Liuzzo 50 years after the White WSU nursing student responded to MLK’s plea for volunteers to assist with the civil rights movement, which took her life:
Shame on Ben Carson (potential Repub. Pres. Candidate) for almost everything that comes out of his month, including this week’s comments about his belief that Homosexuality is a Choice because prisoners choose it in jail. He has since backtracked, but quite frankly, I think he truly believes it.
Shine on Senator Barbara Mikulski  (Maryland Dem.) as the longest serving woman in Congress (Nearly 40 years combined in both the House then the Senate). As she announced this week she won’t run for re-election in 2016, it will be difficult to fill her small but mighty shoes.
Shame on the Russian Machine which assassinated opposition leader Boris Nemtsov for his outspoken comments about various Russian improprieties and for Putin’s spin on his death:
Shine on Jimmy Kimmel and his cohort of real Docs for this excellent and humorous pro-vaccine video:
Shame on German Publishers for bringing Mein Kamft back to German Bookstores (with annotations) after the 70 year ban. Not sure if it will be used as a learning tool to avoid a repeat of history or as inspiration for the demented:
 
Shine on China for instituting a 1 year ban on the import of Ivory. Hopefully this test year will morph into a lifetime ban by squelching the Chinese appetite for Elephant tusk.  Bravo to Prince William who this week encouraged China to extend the ban. http://www.scmp.com/news/china/article/1729598/prince-william-urges-china-enact-permanent-ban-ivory-trade and while I’m on the subject of Elephants, finally, Ringling Brothers have decided to “free” the Elephants from thier inhumane circus treatment by the year 2018. A bit late, but better than never:
 
Harmony
The quintessential female voices of the 60s harmonized beautifully on this classic cover of Bob Dylan’s “I Shall Be Released”.  Enjoy the sweet vibes of Mama Cass, Joni Mitchell and Mary Travers: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aJvCPHhUIms
Rhythm
Though most Jews celebrated Purim on the 14th day of the Jewish month of Adar, those who were in Shushan (and in today’s era in Jerusalem) celebrate Purim on the 15th of Adar (which is today).  So in honor of Shushan Purim, please enjoy this rhythmic Bruno Mars tune rebooted to the Purim story:

Wishing you and your loved ones a Sweet and Peaceful Shabbat Shalom and a Happy Shushan Purim.

Lisa

Bravo to Harvey Bronstein and Margot Halperin for being recognized as this year’s Federation Lifetime Achievement Honoree.  The awards will be presented to them in May.  Thanks, Harvey and Margot for your passion and dedication to our Jewish Community.
Condolences to the dear friends and family of Jeff Surnow z”l (age 63).  An avid biker since age 50, who was tragically hit by a police car while biking in the early morning Hawaiian hours. May his memory and spirit bring comfort to those who loved him and mourn his passing.
Condolences to friends Bob and Anita Naftaly and Howard and Lisa Brown on the passing of Grace Naftaly z”l (age 101). May her long life, spirit and love bring comfort to her family during their time of sorrow.
As many know, Leonard Nimoy z”l grew up in an orthodox home and took the clergy Tefillin wrapped fingers forming a Shin as his Vulcan hand gesture. He was talented well beyond Star Trek as he often perform as Tevye in Fiddler productions, wrote poetry and published several photography books.  Less known was his declaration of Love (at the end of this) rendition of “If I had a Hammer”.  You were well loved, Mr. Spock/ Mr. Nimoy: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UvoJQlhzHyU

Long Live and Prosper
April 14th
Emily Stillman Foundation
Night of Laughs
Raising awareness about meningitis, organ donation and the importance of vaccinations.
April 26th (Sunday)
Send a Kid to Tamarack event
Adat Shalom
Enjoy a Magical Night with Magician and Mentalist
Oz Pearlman
For more info, please contact Laura Adler
adler@tamarackcamps.com
May 1st  
8:00pm
Detroit Opera House
Forgotten Harvest Comedy Night
Featuring:
Joel McHale
(NBC Community and The Soup)
For more details and ticket info:
May 3rd
11:30am
Jewish Senior Life
8 over 80 presentations
Adat Shalom Synagogue
For more info:
248-592-1101 or mbuda@jslmi.org
May 7th
6:00-9:00pm
Orchards Children’s Services
Signature Event
Colony Club, Detroit
For more info, please contact Fern Kepes
fkepes@orchards.org
May 17th (save the date)
Hillel Day School Annual Dinner
(My Alma Mater)
More details to come…
May 18th
Planned Parenthood Annual Luncheon
The Henry (Dearborn)
Guest Speaker: Senator Wendy Davis
For more info: http://www.ppmsm.org/AL/
balloons_celebrate.jpg
Happy Birthday
March 6th
Anat Lis
Scott Schlafer
Nancy Rosen Triest
Micki Grossman
March 7th
Ilyse Mark
Susie Stern
March 8th
Jenny Nathan
Josh Gruber
Yuval Moed
March 9th
Linda Stein
March 10th
Barbara Kaplan Wallace
Howard Brown
March 11th
Michael Chudnow
Marcia Leifer
Jeff Kaye
Rabbi Elimelech Goldberg
March 12th
Lorie Neiman Kessler
Sheryl Alpern

Blue Stripes

 

Shabbat Shalom March 6, 2015

Shabbat Shalom Feb. 27, 2015

lisamarklisLeave a comment

Shabbat Shalom
February 27, 2015
Dear family and friends,
Cuba Adventures
With 25 family members, we descended into the nooks and crannies of Cuba with great admiration for the residents while learning about their endurance over 5 tumultuous decades. Though the tides are slowly changing as our US government treads a new relationship path.  These negotiations bumped us from our hotel as Nancy Pelosi and her crew were roaming the Island (while staying in our hotel) and discussing efforts to lift the long overdue embargo. Cuba is a beautiful dichotomy. It is rich in culture yet poor in wealth with friendly people who are sadly isolated and a swim’s distance to Key West yet oceans apart. I learned that (despite last week’s musical inclusion), Dezi Arnez is completely unknown in his home country since his career was launched after he left (and never returned) and Cubans didn’t have access to American Television. Cuban culture is stellar. The music is toe-tapping/Salsa-Dancing everywhere…lunch, dinner, night clubs with the highlight at theBuena Vista Social Club. The variety of architecture is stunning yet with some magnificent building so neglected and decrepit trees were growing from their roofs. Their art community is incredible with Yoan Capote as our favorite. Delicious meals consisted of Rice, Beans and Rum with tasty Fish and Chicken sides.  Public toilets lacked TP and Seats but for a “cuc” (Tourist Pesos) attendants came to the TP rescue. Their roads are filled with Woodward Dream Cruise cars of every hue and the Jewish Community is warm and welcoming as we shared Friday night services and Shabbat dinner with them. The songs were familiar and the service was led by young Cuban Jews. I highly recommend a visit to Cuba and now is the time, before it becomes commercialized and western.
Mataan, Fidal and Aviv

Supporting Israel

While the US is working on marriage counseling with Cuba, our decades-long courtship with Israel has always been strong, however the US could have been a bit more supportive during Israel’s rebirth*.  Unfortunately, our own political divisiveness is creeping into our unwavering support of our Jewish Homeland. Bibi’s scheduled congressional speech has been tainted with political controversy.  And this week Bibi refused a Democratic Invitation exacerbating the rift.  Hannan, Aviv and I will be one of the 16,000 people attending the AIPAC Policy Conference this weekend. It will be interesting to hear Bibi’s speech as well as Susan Rice and Samantha Power representing the Administration.   Then, when Bibi goes home, he must contend with his own political hurdles of Bottlegate and financial misappropriations. Let’s get past this current Israel/US relationship hiccup as our main goal is to stop Iran’s nuclear ambitions and end the aggression by those who want to wipe Israel off the map. Throughout her existance, our tiny homeland has been bombarded with existential threats as well as vicious lies, like this week when they accused Israel of flooding Gaza http://www.timesofisrael.com/false-israel-drowns-gaza-claims-sweep-internet/  but for the real Israel in her full glory, sadness, beauty and strength, take a look at this stunning new video of Eretz Yesrael:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CTeyqQpdd6E

BFF

*This newly posted and vividly clear video by Alan Dershowitzexplains the historical legality of Israel’s “rebirth“.  I only wish the Israel haters would open their eyes to the truth: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=12KJa4a0d64

And if you’ve got 4.44 minutes here is Danny Ayalonexplaining the balance of power in the Middle East:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=c1M-5qV7ztY
Purim Celebration

Our festive holiday of Purim is celebrated next week (March 5th) as we commemorate the survival of one of the many struggles against our people. As repeated throughout our centuries long history “they tried to kill us, we survived, let’s eat”.  During Purim, we engage in 4 main activities/Mitzvot:

1. Give gifts/charity to those in need.
2. Attend a reading of the Megilla (story of Purim).
3. Partake in a family/community Purim meal.
4. Send gifts of food (Mishloach Manot) to friends/family.

We indulge in eating 3 cornered cookies, Hamentashen, representing the 3 cornered hat worn by our Purim nemesis, Haman.
Equal Access
After months of debating, lobbying, campaigning and conferring over the Neutrality of the Internet, the FCC will regulate the usage like a public utility which will keep the playing field level for big and small internet providers and users.  If you want to understand how Net Neutrality works, check out this brief and concise explaination.  By the way, the late NYTimes journalist, David Carr (who recently died) is featured in this video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4cGlI9mRUCM
The Count
Obama Vetoes: 3 with the 3rd this week for the Keystone Pipeline, though I assume more are coming down the pike.
Recreational Weed: 3 States with Alaska joining CO and WA this week. Many others including MI legalized medicinal marijuana.
Marriage Equality: 37 States with a Supreme Court decision regarding Michigan (and other States) expected in June.
Damages Awarded: $655.5 Million by a Manhattan Jury against the PLO and the Palestinian Authority for their involvement in terrorist attacks that killed Americans in Israel.
Gun Violence: Women are 10 times more likely to be murdered in the US than in other Western Countries.

National Monuments: Obama created 3 new ones includingBrowns Canyon in Colorado, Pullman Historic District in Chicago, and Honouliuli Internment Camp in Hawaii.

Cuban Theme
Enjoy The Mavericks with Raul Malo (Cuban parents).  This song “All Night Long” has a salsa upbeat tune.  Jump to 27sec. on this bootlegged version. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xfNOS1xioV4
Oscar Theme
After months of rehearsal and practice, practice, practice, Lady Gaga nailed this Sound of Music tribute.
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Pre-Pharrell Happy Theme
Don’t worry as the world joins in:
Shabbat Greeter
During one of our Cuban dinners, we met the lovely Ambassador from Nigeria who is this week’s Shabbat Shalom Guest Greeter.  She was a fascinating woman with some sad tales of the devastating tragedies inflicted upon her people by the demons, Boko Haram.
Here is Ambassador Laraba Elsie Binta Bhutto

http://youtu.be/YPOR0vuugAU
Wishing you and your loved ones a Sweet and Peaceful Shabbat Shalom and a Hag Purim Sameach!

Lisa

P.S.  Fitbit fights Hunger with this great campaign humorously explained by Joel McHale who is (not too) coincidentally

our Guest Comedian at this year’s Forgotten Harvest May 1st Fundraiser*.  Please join Hannan and I as we Co-Chair this year’s event to help combat hunger. Tickets and sponsorships are available at http://forgottenharvest.org/events/detail.aspx?i=71  Last year’s event was sold out and Joel McHale is Hilarious. Check this out:

George M. Margulis z”l

Condolences to dear friend, Sherry Margulis Zaslow and her family on the passing of their beloved Father and Grandfather,George M. Margulis z”l.  His heart was beaming with pride and love for his wife Marilyn and children Sherry (and the late Jeff Zaslow z”l), Randy (Deborah) and the late Dale Margulis z”l in addition to granddaughters Jordan, Alex and Eden Zaslow and Jayde and Lily Margulis  May his memory and spirit bring comfort to those who loved him.

Sion Soleymani z”l

Our thoughts and prayers are with Roya Soleymani and Bryan Weinstein and their family on the passing of Roya’s father Sion Soleymani z”l. May his memory be a blessing onto his family and bring comfort to them during their time of mourning.

Dan Uzan z”l

The Danish security guard who was shot at point blank while protecting a Bar Mitzvah celebration at his Danish Synagogue. The 37 year old hero was a gentle giant at 6’5” who was beloved by his community both in Denmark and Israel. He was an avid basketball player and to his friends was known as “Dan the Man”. Rest in Peace.

Dan Uzan z”l

Goodbye Northland

Baby Boomers who were Detroiters grew up with Northland as our landmark mall. Change is inevitable and Northland (which has been in decline for years) will finally be shuttered for good. An era is ending just as it’s original rival shopping district of downtown Detroit is revving up again.

Northland Mall
Opened March 22, 1954
April 14th
Emily Stillman Foundation
Night of Laughs
Raising awareness about meningitis, organ donation and the importance of vaccinations.
April 26th (Sunday)
Send a Kid to Tamarack event
Adat Shalom
Enjoy a Magical Night with Magician and Mentalist
Oz Pearlman
For more info, please contact Laura Adler
adler@tamarackcamps.com

May 1st
8:00pm
Detroit Opera House
Forgotten Harvest Comedy Night
Featuring:
Joel McHale
(NBC Community and The Soup)
For more details and ticket info:
http://forgottenharvest.org/events/detail.aspx?i=71

May 3rd
11:30am
Jewish Senior Life
8 over 80 presentations
Adat Shalom Synagogue
For more info:
248-592-1101 or mbuda@jslmi.org
May 7th
6:00-9:00pm
Orchards Children’s Services
Signature Event
Colony Club, Detroit
For more info, please contact Fern Kepes
fkepes@orchards.org
May 17th (save the date)
Hillel Day School Annual Dinner
(My Alma Mater)
More details in coming weeks…
May 18th
Planned Parenthood Annual Luncheon
The Henry (Dearborn)
Guest Speaker: Senator Wendy Davis
For more info: http://www.ppmsm.org/AL/
balloons_celebrate.jpg
Happy Birthday
Feb. 27th
Eric Adelman
Gil Borman
Feb. 28th
Jane Giblin Kush
March 1st
JoAnne Nosan
Max Appelman
March 2nd
Karen Ring Weiss
Rachel Lasser
March 3rd
Tisha Berg
Harry Kirshbaum
David Kramer
Leah Tolwin
March 4th
Max Kepes
Seth Berg
March 5th
Debbie Landau
Jamie Rashty

Blue Stripes

 

Shabbat Shalom Feb. 27, 2015

Shabbat Shalom Feb. 20, 2015

lisamarklisLeave a comment

Shabbat Shalom from Cuba
February 20, 2015
Dear family and friends,
No News

This week is a travel Shabbat message meaning I wrote it before our travels to Cuba so any interesting news of the week will be included in next week’s email.

Fame

In the meantime… Cuba is known for Cigars, Rum, Old Cars, Baseball, Hemingway, Gitmo…

History

Columbus arrived to Cuba in 1492 and claimed it as part of the Kingdom of Spain till it became semi-independent in the first half of the 20th century but in 1959 Castro took hold and its been communist ever since… But a new chapter is beginning for this small Caribbean Island as the U.S. finally loosened diplomatic constraints opening the door for them to join the modern 21 Century.

Enjoy
Music Video for the week:
Wishing you a Sweet and Peaceful Shabbat Shalom!
Lisa
Condolences to Steve and Carol Tarnowsky and their family on the passing of Carol’s Dad, Ed Blumberg.  May his memory, spirit and love bring comfort to his family and friends during their time of sorrow.
Rest in Peace, Poet Laureate and Pulitzer Prize winner, Philip Levine. He was born at Detroit’s Henry Ford Hospital in 1928 and died this week of pancreatic cancer. Many of his poems were about Detroit:
An Abandoned Factory, Detroit

The gates are chained, the barbed-wire fencing stands,
An iron authority against the snow,
And this grey monument to common sense
Resists the weather. Fears of idle hands,
Of protest, men in league, and of the slow
Corrosion of their minds, still charge this fence.

Beyond, through broken windows one can see
Where the great presses paused between their strokes
And thus remain, in air suspended, caught
In the sure margin of eternity.
The cast-iron wheels have stopped; one counts the spokes
Which movement blurred, the struts inertia fought,

And estimates the loss of human power,
Experienced and slow, the loss of years,
The gradual decay of dignity.
Men lived within these foundries, hour by hour;
Nothing they forged outlived the rusted gears
Which might have served to grind their eulogy.
April 14th
Emily Stillman Foundation
Night of Laughs
Raising awareness about meningitis, organ donation and the importance of vaccinations.
April 26th (Sunday)
Send a Kid to Tamarack event
Adat Shalom
Enjoy a Magical Night with Magician and Mentalist
Oz Pearlman
For more info, please contact Laura Adler

adler@tamarackcamps.com

May 1st 
8:00pm
Detroit Opera House
Forgotten Harvest Comedy Night
Featuring:
Joel McHale
(NBC Community and The Soup)
For more details and ticket info:
May 3rd
11:30am
Jewish Senior Life
8 over 80 presentations
Adat Shalom Synagogue
For more info:
248-592-1101 or mbuda@jslmi.org
May 7th
6:00-9:00pm
Orchards Children’s Services
Signature Event
Colony Club, Detroit
For more info, please contact Fern Kepes
fkepes@orchards.org
May 18th
Planned Parenthood Annual Luncheon
The Henry (Dearborn)
Guest Speaker: Senator Wendy Davis
For more info: http://www.ppmsm.org/AL/
balloons_celebrate.jpg
Happy Birthday
Missed from last week
Feb. 14th
Linda Berke (Happy Big One)
Feb. 20th
Jennifer Rothenberg Siegel
Susan Banes Loss
Ariela Raviv (Tzvi’s sister, not wife)
Feb. 21st
Florine Mark (aka. mom/bubbie)
She LOVES birthday messages:
fmark@wwgroup.com
Parker Levin
Bob Naftaly
Feb. 22nd
Eric Paskel
Feb. 23rd
Carol Klein
Meir Segal
Brian Siegel
Rabbi Harold Loss
Amy Folbe
Feb. 24th
Amy Fishman Singer
Julie Berlin
Feb. 25th
Feb. 26th
Lois Cohn
Debby Tukel

Blue Stripes

 

Shabbat Shalom Feb. 20, 2015

Shabbat Shalom Feb. 13, 2015

lisamarklisLeave a comment

Shabbat Shalom
February 13, 2015
Dear family and friends,
Know Science – No Stigma
Bravo to friend, Diane Orley, on helping to Shatter the Stigma of Mental Health with the well attended event last week that facilitated a discussion of Mental Illness on campus.  Since the loss of their son, George Orley z”l, Diane’s focus and passion has been to shed light on this potentially deadly disease.   She started on the campus of University of Michigan to help the plethora of students who suffer from some form of Mental Illness and joined forces with the Wolverine Support Networkhttps://csg.umich.edu/student-resources/wolverine-support-network which creates a peer led safe environment for all students. The stats are staggering. According to National Alliance on Mental Health, 1 in 4 college age students have a diagnosable Mental Illness.  The pressure of college and entering adulthood exacerbates the condition, though Mental Illness can start at a much younger age.  One of the main obstacles for seeking treatment is the stigma to just talk about your feelings with your friends or family.  Mental Illness is like any other disease… Cancer, Diabetes, Broken Bones, but sadly many can’t see the symptoms as easily and they are afraid to discuss it, fearful they will be judged. We don’t judge Cancer victims or Diabetics; We need to enlighten ourselves to destigmatize Mental Illness too.

Physical Health

To think what could have been accomplished during all that wasted time on Capitol Hill when efforts (again last week) have gone to repealing Obamacare.  Last week was attempt #56, since the landmark Health Care Law became the lay of the land.  The vote was for all those Freshman conservative congressmen to prove their resistance to this “dreaded” law for their constituents back home. While Congress was fighting Windmills, Obama was fighting Domestic Abuse with his Grammy address in support of the new efforts called It’s On Usand guided people to the website with the same name http://itsonus.org/
For more staggering stats:
These are just US Stats; Globally it’s much worse.
Contempt of Court

Alabama becomes State number 37 to legalize Marriage Equality as the Supreme Court stepped aside in blocking it. But, remember that crazy Judge Roy Moore in the 1990s who placed his own carving of the Ten Commandments in his courtroom and insisted on praying before Jury Selection despite our Separation of Church and State laws…well he’s back to his shenanigans again and this time as the Alabama Supreme Court Chief Justice. He instructed Alabama Probate Courts NOT to issue Gay Marriage licences (even though it is federally permitted) and many probate judges obeyed his bias dictate.  This (State vs. Federal) battle will obviously continue to play out in the legal field, but I predict Marriage Equality will be legal in all 50 States before year’s end.

Ukraine
With nearly 6,000 deaths,12,000 injuries and 1,000,0000 displacements, the situation is dire in the territorial Ukrainian war. It is especially harrowing for the over 300,000 Ukrainian Jews (20% live in the conflict zone) as the last time they were displaced from their homes was during WWII when the majority were killed by the Nazis. Hopes are high with this week’s Leader Handshake, but time will tell if Peaceful Minds prevail.

Jon, Abdullah and Obama

Say it isn’t so..but alas it is.  After 17 years, Jon Stewart has decided to stay home and have dinner with his family rather than entertain and enlighten us with his brilliant and hilarious interpretation of current events. Jon is following a long line of hosts who have “abdicated”… Jay Leno, David Lederman, Stephen Colbert, Brian Williams (though his was a self-inflicted abdication) and now Jon Stewart.  Whatever his next journey, he will be greatly missed on the Daily Show. Also, I don’t even think his film Rosewater ever made it to Michigan.  One of his “rants” this week was this story of our obsession with Jordan’s King Abdullah and the comparison to our own leader. http://thedailyshow.cc.com/full-episodes/8omwbs/february-10–2015—david-axelrod#time=1m17s&index=0  But our own leader rose to the occassion by submitting a 3 year resolution to Congress to approve a War on ISIS (minus the ground troops) in Syria and Iraq. One way or another, ISIS and all terrorists need to be eliminated from this Earth. It would be nice to add ISIS obliteration to Obama’s legacy.
Odd Couple?
Grammy’s
Congrats to all the winners last week especially my favoriteSam Smith, Stay with Me: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pB-5XG-DbAA and shame on Kanye with his childish obsession of Beyonce.

Von Trapp

Speaking of music, I just love the idea of this band as its comprised of Werner von Trapp’s descendents, yes the real Sound of Music legacy.  You do know the story was true? Here are four of the Grandchildren singing an original song, Dancing in Gold: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rN6n12nXyPg and for more info about the family:
No Snake Bits
This week’s Torah Portion is Mishpatim and it discusses the reasonings and law of why we don’t charge interest when lending money.  For 120 years, one of our community’s crown jewels has been Hebrew Free Loans which takes to heart theno interest rule.  They even put “free” in their name. HFL has saved lives, created lives, nurtured education, built business and assisted lives in so many other ways. Here is a brief and interesting interpretation of this week’s parsha and the connection of Interest to a Snake Bit. http://www.g-dcast.com/mishpatim/  And if you know someone who needs a loan to further their eduation, start or build a business, fix a car, “make” a baby (no joke), pay a bill… please contacthttps://www.hfldetroit.org/
Wishing you and your loved ones a Sweet and Peaceful Shabbat Shalom and if you’re an SNL fan, don’t forget to watch the 3 hour 40th Anniversary reunion Show 8pm thisSunday Night (Live) with tons of guests like Betty White, Eddie Murphy and Robert De Niro. And while the stars are shinning, check out Monday night (8:00pm CBS) all-star tribute to Stevie Wonder’s LP hit, Songs in the Key of Life.  And lastly, Happy Valentine’s Day to all who celebrate this day of love.
Lisa

Mazel Tov the the Bloom and Kravis families on the engagement of Jennifer Bloom to Drew Kravis.  Wishing the young couple Health, Happiness, Love, Laughter, Peace and Prosperity.
We have a vibrant Jewish Community with lots of volunteer opportunities and lots of people who want to volunteer.  And now we have a website that connects the dots:
April 14th
Emily Stillman Foundation
Night of Laughs
Raising awareness about meningitis, organ donation and the importance of vaccinations.
May 1st 
8:00pm
Detroit Opera House
Forgotten Harvest Comedy Night
Featuring:
Joel McHale
(NBC Community and The Soup)
For more details and ticket info:
May 3rd
11:30am
Jewish Senior Life
8 over 80 presentations
Adat Shalom Synagogue
For more info:
248-592-1101 or mbuda@jslmi.org
May 7th
6:00-9:00pm
Orchards Children’s Services
Signature Event
Colony Club, Detroit
For more info, please contact Fern Kepes
fkepes@orchards.org
Missed from last week…
Feb. 6th
Betsy Kellman (Happy 70th)
Feb. 13th
Linda Zelch Rouff
Robert Stone
Feb. 14th
Liz Kanter Groskind
Betsy Snider Heuer
Robin Tobin-Murav
Maurice Pogoda
Pam Feinberg-Rivkin
Richard Krugel
Robert Chonoles
Feb. 15th
Marcy Feldman
Fred Leeb
Cathy Radner
Doreen Hermelin
Stacy Gordon
Janice Rosenhaus
Feb. 16th
Carolyn Glaser Bellinson
Rose Handleman
Feb. 17th
Dr. Jay Kutinsky
Julie Zuckerman Tepperman
Marla Rosberg
Feb. 18th
Mitchell Wiatrak
Susan Moiseev
Feb. 19th
Carrie Stauss
Nora Smokler Baron
Rosanne Kukes
Elana Kreinin Markovitz

Blue Stripes

 

Shabbat Shalom Feb. 13, 2015

Shabbat Shalom Feb. 6th, 2015

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Shabbat Shalom
February 6, 2015
Dear family and friends,
New Month
Welcome to February, well known for Punxsutawney Phil, Black History Month, Lincoln & Washington’s birthdays and Valentine’s Day.  And lesser known (but still true) for Baked Alaska Day (Feb. 1st), World Cancer Day (Feb. 4th), Shower with a Friend Day (Feb. 5th) and Love Your Pet Day (Feb. 20th). http://nationaldaycalendar.com/calendar-at-a-glance/february/  It’s the month that gets the least respect as it is most often mispronounced.  Do you say Feb-you-airy or Feb-ru-airy… though either is fine according to Webster’s Dictionary. Feb has come in like a Lion and hopefully will be weather-tamed as the days progress.
Human Dignity
To commemorate Black History Month, this quote by Franklin Thomas (past Pres of Ford Foundation and current Chair of September 11 Fund) sums up the Freedom Struggles of our era:  “One day our descendants will think it incredible that we paid so much attention to things like the amount of melanin in our skin or the shape of our eyes or our gender instead of the unique identities of each of us as complex human beings.”
Despising Freedom and diversity fits the bill for the inhuman barbarian ISIS sickos who struck again this week with their torturous murder of the Jordanian pilot. When will the civilized world join forces against this evil entity.  Sadly they continue to gain momentum with fresh recruits by attracting disillusioned young Muslims to their twisted mindset.
Quote from President Herbert Hoover – 
not sure of his presidential legacy but I do like this quote.
Misguided Minds
While eating at a vegetarian restaurant this past weekend, the owner (who is also a Chiropractor) struck up a conversation with us while holding his 8 month-old son.  He proudly mentioned that all 6 of his children were unvaccinated and his method of keeping them safe was to ensure a healthy environment and diet. He ignored the fact that his “safe” environment isn’t keeping his community safe.  A debate was attempted but futile since the growing anti-vaccine movement seems undaunted by scientific facts and the deadly implications of their misguided philosophy. Parental concerns over vaccinations originated in 1998 with the debunked and retracted research by Dr. Andrew Wakefield that also resulted in the loss of his medical license. There are various reasons for this rising trend…pure natural lifestyle, connection (falsely proven) to Autism, mistrust of the pharmaceutical industry and the fact that Today’s Parents never experienced the fear factor of the polio era.  The only way to eradicate preventable diseases is by vaccinating the majority of our population so those who are immunocompromised (infants, elderly…) aren’t exposed to the disease which if contracted by a healthy person could be minor but if contracted by a weaker individual could be deadly.  Those who don’t have a medical reason NOT to immunize their children are being selfish and oblivious to the danger. And now, 2016 candidates (Chris Christie, Rand Paul) are jumping into this conversation with some giving leeway to freedom of Choice. How can they suddenly be “pro-choice” when it is scientifically proven dangerous for Society. Of course, after backlash they seemed to have backtracked.
Accusations 
More news about the murdered Argentine prosecutor
Alberto Nisman z”l is coming to light as it now seems he was planning to submit an arrest warrant for Argentine President, Cristina Fernandez de Kirchner for her involvement in protecting Iran from their connections to the 1994 JCC bombing that killed 85 people. It would have been unprecedented to serve the president with a warrant for her arrest which makes his murder even more suspicious.
Bibi’s Speech
Israel should never be an American political football as bi-partisan support is the goal for our best Ally in the Middle East, but this is exactly what Bibi and Boehner have done with Bibi’s upcoming joint session speech next month (just 2 weeks before Israeli elections). Boehner invited Bibi ignoring protocol and leaving the White House dismayed by Bibi’s acceptance. Yes, Iran is a threat to both the US and Israel but the process to halt their nuclear program is in the works.  The last thing our Congress needs is more animosity between the aisle especially regarding Israel. Bibi is using the platform to prop up his prominence prior to his March 17th elections but will Israelis see through this propaganda.
 
Fallon and Young
I strongly recommend viewing this perfect twinning of two very talented souls.  No humor in this rendition, just a great song sung with pride and joy.  Bravo to Jimmy and Neil:
Opportunity of the Week
For the upcoming holiday of Valentine’s day and a mere $80, you can provide your loved ones with a 50 Shades Vermont Teddy Bears including “accessories”.
http://www.vermontteddybear.com/sellgroup/fifty-shades-of-grey-bear.aspx?bhcp=1  To the many 50 Shades Fans out there (though I couldn’t finish the book), hope your “fantasies” come true as the film hits theaters this weekend.
Good Night Democracy
For those who feel Citizens United needs to be repealed, please enjoy this new version of Good Night Moon
Marriage Equality
Bravo to Governor Synder (hospitalized this week with a blood clot) who decided not to appeal the court order that recognized the 300 gay marriages performed during the legal window. Those who were married that day have been in litigation limbo but are now legal and can benefit from all the rights connected to marriage, like insurance and adoption.  A decision in April is due from the Supreme Court who will rule on Marriage Equality for Michigan and a few other states.
Parenthood
Whether you are a Nursing Mom, Working Mom, Yoga Mom, Formula Mom, Cloth-diaper Mom, Hands-On Dad… All, have one thing in common which binds our souls. This (Super Bowl) commercial speaks loudly about our priorities as we should remember to loosen up on our judgements (unless your actions are dangerous to others).
Music
I leave you this week with the beautiful new tune by David Broza and collaborator Yehonatan Geffen called Orange Blossom. Hope you enjoy:

Wishing you a Sweet and Peaceful Shabbat Shalom,

Lisa

Congrats to cousins Dana and David Pagoda on the birth of their 2nd child, Drew Henry.  Hugs and Love to grandparents,Tom and Rosanne Kukes and great-grandmother, (Aunt)Chilly Revich and Aunt, Uncle and cousins, Sherri, Danny, Chase and Lance Kukes. 
Congrats to our local 8 Over 80 honorees for their longstanding commitment to our community as they will be showered with praise on Sunday May 3rd: Honorable Avern Cohn, Dr. Paul Feinberg, Ellen Glen, Ellen Labes, Geri Margolis, Sondra Nathan, Bert Stein and George Zeff. 

Condolences to the family of Aaron Kraft z”l, loving father toHelayne (Jeffrey) Kaplan, Valerie Ross, Bryan Kraft, and Risa (Bruce) Brickman.  May his memory and love fill the hearts of those who mourn his passing.

Condolences to Patti and Eric Phillips and their family on the passing of Eric’s father, Dr. Irwin Phillips.  May his spirit and memory be a blessing to his family.
Feb. 6th
National Wear Red Day
In recognition of Women’s heart health
March 8th
In recognition of
International Women’s Day
Film screening
“She’s Beautiful When She’s Angry”
Maple Theater
4:30pm
For info and the trailer:
April 14th
Emily Stillman Foundation
Night of Laughs
Raising awareness about meningitis, organ donation and the importance of vaccinations.
May 1st (save the date)
Forgotten Harvest Comedy Night
Featuring:
Joel McHale
(NBC Community and The Soup)
Feb. 6th
Pamela Applebaum
Nell Dority
Feb. 7th
Amy Carson Schlussel
Rabbi Paul Yedwab
Jeffrey Jucewicz (favorite florist) 
Feb. 8th
Margaret Bornstein
JIll Mainster Menuck
Stacey Gordon
Feb. 9th
Michelle Guttenberg Wexler
Maria (Charlie) Kao
Richard Burstein (Happy 70th)
Feb. 10th
Mark Spitz 
Born 1950
Feb. 11th
Ryan Friedrich
(Big) Al Muskovitz (Happy 60th)
Dodo Kepes
Feb. 12th
Lori Oberfelder Siegel
Pamela Franklin Azaria

Blue Stripes

 

Shabbat Shalom Feb. 6th, 2015

Shabbat Shalom Jan. 30, 2015

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Hag Sameach Tu B’Shevat
Shabbat Shalom
January 30, 2015
Dear family and friends,
Sadness
Life is short and precious.  Sadly this cliche touches home with the passing of dear friend, Rick Radner z”l at the young age of 56. When friends die unexpectedly, your perspective on life is jolted into reflection and appreciation. You hug your family and count your blessings.  Rick was a blessing in our lives. He was a great guy and a great friend to many, as evident by the overflow of love at his funeral and Shiva. His passions included books, basketball, poker, biking, food and especially Ice Cream (one I share with him).  Yet his deepest devotion was reserved for his family.  Our love, hugs and condolences are showered upon his wife, Beth and their children, Alexander, Jonathan and Katie who live in a home of love, pride and encouragement.  Here is a photo from Hannan’s 40th birthday weekend in 1998 Up North on the Leelanau Peninsula.
You will be missed, Rick.
Heart Health
Coincidentally, I had my annual physical this week and results of my cholesterol were slightly high.  After seeing that someone can die of a Heart Attack with no forewarning, I consulted friend, Dr. Joel Kahn, who suggested a preliminary coronary artery calcium scan (CACS). *2/6 Wear Red Day (see below)
http://www.thedoctorblog.com/detecting-heart-disease/  Wishing a long healthy life for all of us and while in this sentimental mood, here (again) is my life’s philosophy. We are here on this Earth for two purposes.  1. To enjoy all its pleasures and glory (Family, Food, Ice Cream, Friends, love…) and 2. to make it a better place for future generations.
Tribute
To guide my life’s journey, I have adopted Rhoda Albom‘s wise words of “The Masses are Asses” meaning ignore what (you think) people are saying about you.  Other people’s opinions of you and your actions (as long as you don’t hurt yourself or others) is irrelevant. Last Sunday, Mitch Albomwrote a beautiful tribute to his mother who recently passed away.  He captured her spirit and essence in this beautiful testament to her life:
Bravo
Though it was 54 years late, kudos to the South Carolina Court system for pardoning the 9 Civil Rights activist who sat at a segregated lunch counter and suffered 30 days in a hard labor chain gang as opposed to paying the fine defining the “Bail no Jail” movement.
Neighbors
Iran, Syria and Hezbollah (Lebanon’s terrorist proxy) are in battle with Israel these last couple of weeks (and decades) with the latest attacked that killed two Israeli soldiers (and wounded 7) near the Lebanon border.  Hopefully the tension will wind down, though the neighborhood will continue to be volatile until aggressive/violent powers accept the fact that Israel is the permanent Jewish homeland.
Homeland
Chelsea Handler accepts Israel as her homeland with this week’s visit.  While there, she posed on a camel (in Chelsea style), interviewed Shimon Peres (who was very happy to meet her) and placed a note at the Western Wall.  All this is material for her documentary researching her Jewish roots (her father was Jewish and her mother was Mormon with a nazi grandfather) while exploring of all facets of Israel.
Hatred
Of course, blame is again (and always) thrust upon the Jews and Israel. The first informal United Nations conference on Anti-semitism states Israel’s “occupation” and “Human rights violations” as the reason for rising anti-semitism. Keep in mind, the source of this complaint is Saudi Arabia who, speaking on behalf of 57 Islamic Countries, should take a good look in their mirrors as they would find far worse human rights abuses in their own countries with FGM, stoning, torture and abuse occurring everyday.
If you are interested in the details of the conference, here is the official UN website:
And not that we need proof that anti-semitism exists, but a Swedish Journalist tested the waters by clipping a Kippah to his head and walking around the Southern Swedish city of Malmo. There is a 58 minute documentary in this article that speaks volumes. http://www.haaretz.com/jewish-world/jewish-world-news/1.638771  For those living in increasingly anti-semitic cities of Europe who do wear Kippot, here is the newest form to keep you safe, the invisible Kippah:
Jewish Holiday
Tu B’Shevat (15th day of the Jewish month of Shevat) is our Jewish Holiday that celebrates the New Year for the Trees. Here in Michigan our trees are still barren of leaves and fruit, but in Israel, trees are awakening with new growth.  The holiday starts this Tuesday (Feb. 3rd) at sunset and is celebrated by eating the 7 species of Israel: Wheat, Barley, Olives, Dates, Grapes, Figs and Pomegranates.  It is customary to pay tribute to our environment and agriculture during this holiday. For more info, please check out this video:
Music
Happy 50th anniversary to The Ark, one of our country’s premier folk venues which happens to be in our own backyard of Ann Arbor. It started in the Living Room of David and Linda Siglin (on Hill St.) in 1965 and has grown in respect and grandeur. This weekend they will host their 35th annual Ann Arbor Folk Festival. We’ve seen many great performances there, including Arlo Guthrie, Janis Ian, Josh White Jr., The Chenille Sisters, A.J. Croce and many more.
This video epitomizes The Ark:

Wishing you a Sweet and Peaceful Shabbat Shalom and aHappy Tu B’Shevat!

Lisa

Rick Radner z”l
Our hearts are torn by the loss of Rick Radner z”l (56).  May his memory, spirit and love bring comfort to his immediate family (Beth, Alexander, Jonathan and Katie), his extended family (all Radners are related) and his friends who mourn his passing.
Joyce Chesbrough

Condolences to Rick and Kim Chesbrough and their family on the loss of Rick mother, Joyce Chesbrough (82), beloved Ann Arbor Teacher who extended her reach into the political and community volunteer arena. May her strength, determination and spirit live on in the family she and her husband lovingly raised.
 
Feb. 5th
The George Orley Mental Wellness Initiative
The Wolverine Support Network
Event to create a network of mental wellness for youth and family.
Thursday Feb. 5th
5:30pm-7:30pm
The Townsend Hotel
Birmingham
Suggested donation $50
For more info, please contact
Diane Orley at displcdtxn@gmail.com
*Feb. 6th
National Wear Red Day
In recognition of Women’s heart health
March 8th
In recognition of
International Women’s Day
Film screening
“She’s Beautiful When She’s Angry”
Maple Theater
4:30pm
For info and the trailer:
May 1st (save the date)
Forgotten Harvest Comedy Night
Featuring:
Joel McHale
(NBC Community and The Soup)
Jan. 30th
Danielle Wintererger
Deborah Rubyan
Hattie Groskind (Arizona College gal)
Ken Gold 
Jan. 31st
Shari Rogers
Feb. 1st
Feb. 2nd
Alan Leifer (Boston friend)
Feb. 3rd
Amy Chapman
Ingrid Grossberg (Horse and grandkid loving cousin)
Lori Katzman (Schulman) (Mosaic trip participant)
Steve Schlafer (Aspen Snowbunny)
Feb. 4th
Kathy Wilson Fink
Howard Lutz 
Feb. 5th
Randi Berman Sakwa (Mosaic trip Leader)

Blue Stripes

 

Shabbat Shalom Jan. 30, 2015

Shabbat Shalom Jan. 23, 2015

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Shabbat Shalom
January 23, 2015
Dear family and friends,

Record Heat
While Michigan was under a Polar Vortex last year, most of the world was experiencing the hottest temps since 1880 (when they first started keeping track).  Plus the top 10 hottest years have all occurred within the last 2 decades. Yes, there are cycles in Mother Natures weather patterns but nature cannot explain this current global warming. Skeptic politicians who are more concerned about industrial profits are gambling with the only home we have.  Now, if these skeptics don’t want to listen to trained scientists, than maybe a higher source is due: “I don’t know if (human activity) is the only cause, but mostly, in great part, it is man who has slapped nature in the face” These are the pious words of Pope Francis who hopes to influence world leaders to take action. For more evidence, take a peek at this (NASA produce) video that simulates the temps from 1880 to Today: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WtPkFBbJLMg

State of Affairs
5 years of bleak, yet improving stats, have brought us to this place where “The shadow of crisis has passed, and the state of the union is strong,” Now that we are gaining our economic strength, how many in the Republican led Congress will help Pres. Obama shrink the inequality gap.  Closing a loophole to garner $100,000 from a billion who’s life won’t change one iota while giving a $100 tax break to a working class family could be monumental.  And locally, Michigan led the way into the 2008 recession but we, too, have improved our fiscal strength.  Our unemployment rate has dropped to 6.3 (from a high of 14.2 in 2009). Gov. Snyder shared his vision for a “River of Opportunity” which would revolutionize current government programs and enlist the assistance of Philanthropy to help aid Michiganders in need. Good luck to both leaders!

Mysterious Death
Intrigue, mystery, terrorism, secret plots, Interpol…all this sounds like a blockbuster movie but Fact Is Stranger Than Fiction when it comes to the “apparent” suicide this week of Argentine prosecutor Alberto Nisman who was following the roadmap which led to the 1994 Jewish Center terrorist attack (killing 85 people).  Seems the Argentine Government made a secret deal with Iran, in exchange for coveted oil, to keep quiet about Iran’s orchestration of the JCC attack which was perpetrated by their partner, Lebanon’s Hezbollah. This 20 year investigation was coming to a head when Mr. Nisman “decided” to abruptly kill himself.  In a perfect world the evidence brought forward would shed light on the truth and punishment would be sentenced, but in reality, this case will probably continue to be stifled.

The faces of the 85 JCC victim.
Support for Alberto Nisman.

Israel 
12 people were wounded, 3 of them seriously, when a terrorist from the West Bank stabbed bus passengers in Tel Aviv this week. One of his motives was the promise of a direct ticket to Heaven but what he got was a gunshot wound to his leg plus the bonus of a democratic prosecution. Sadly, attacks like this are commonplace in Israel rather than rarities. Israelis are resilient and stoic, but we all wish for the day when those attributes won’t be on constant call.  On another offensive front, Israel is being threatened by Iran for this week’s killing of several Hezbollah (and Iranian) operatives in Syria.  But of course the most concerning incident for that region is the alleged photo bomb of Miss Israel in a picture with Miss Lebanon.  It is truly sad that Miss Lebanon had to rationalize away the fact that she was in a photo with her neighbor.
http://www.haaretz.com/jewish-world/jewish-world-news/1.638095  On a sidenote, isn’t Miss Israel exquisite?

42nd Anniversary
Jan. 22, 1973 was the famous date of the landmark Roe v. Wade decision. For 42 years, we have been battling to protect the rights upheld by the Supreme Court that slowly and methodically are being chipped away. Thankfully our Congress decided not to vote this week on the proposed 20-week abortion ban as it was getting excess negative feedback, but, the House did pass a Bill to ban the use of Federal dollars for abortions. The State of Alabama (though strapped for cash) has a new (absurd) law that allows the State to appoint a lawyer to protect a fetus. Of course, Jon Stewart sent a crew to investigate this absurdity.

http://www.vox.com/2015/1/16/7556839/daily-show-alabama-abortion  Decreasing unwanted pregancies and abortions is a nobel cause…so how do we do that.  Well, education would be a great start and providing birth control could also help immensely.  But wait, now we’ve got the anti-abortion group calling for the elimination of Birth Control as apparently, Birth Control = Abortion. Yes, decreased access to Birth Control will surely decrease our rate of unwanted pregnancies.

http://www.motherjones.com/politics/2015/01/march-life-organizers-think-birth-control-same-abortion

70 Year History/Mystery
Jan. 27th marks the 70th anniversary of the liberation of Auschwitz-Birkenau by Russian Troops and is also the day the United Nations recognizes as International Holocaust Remembrance Day. In addition, this month is the 70th anniversary of the disappearance of hero and savior, Raoul Wallenberg. To date, he is credited in saving 100,000 souls who’ve descended from his survivors.  Sadly his whereabouts were never discovered so tributes to his life will always be postumus: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VQdzApvE0e4

Bravo

– Bravo to Gov. Snyder for his veto of the Gun Bill that would have allowed people with Restraining Orders (often domestic abuser) to obtain (or maintain) Concealed Carry Licenses.

– Bravo to Senators Dean Heller (R-NV) and Ted Cruz (R-TX)(rare for me to salute Ted Cruz) on the long shot attempt to move the US embassy to Jerusalem.

http://www.timesofisrael.com/senate-bill-seeks-to-force-embassy-move-to-jerusalem/

– Bravo to the Supreme Court for finally

addressing the Marriage Equality issue, Once and for All. A decision is due in April.

– “Bravo” to Justice Scalia for winning the award of writing the most sarcastic opinions. What does this say about his character? http://talkingpointsmemo.com/livewire/scalia-most-sarcastic-justice

– Bravo to HBO and CNN on their broadcasts (next week) of two films documenting the Holocaust.  HBO’s “Night Will Fall” (Jan. 26th) was originally contracted by Alfred Hitchcock and has hundreds of hours of film taken by troops of Allied Forces:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lbB9NCYzQVU

And CNN’s show “Voices of Auschwitz”, hosted by Wolf Blitzer will air Jan. 27th.
– Bravo to the White House for bringing back Cheese Day.  You’ll enjoy this video if you are a West Wing fan.  http://www.whitehouse.gov/blog/2015/01/16/big-block-cheese-day-back-and-its-feta-ever

This week’s Music Selection

Bob Marley would have been 70-years-old on Feb. 6th.  In tribute to his talent, world contributions and wisdom, here is an Israeli A Capella group’s birthday gift to him and the world.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9JXp7sanE3M

Wishing all of you a Sweet and Peaceful Shabbat Shalom,
Lisa
These were my dreams from year’s Shabbat email (during MLK week). Two (Detroit and Marriage Equality) are making progress but it seems the rest have gotten worse.

In recognition of Martin Luther King day, I too have a dream…
…that Israel will live in peace and prosperity
…that Detroit will be revitalized as a vibrant innovative City
…that Women’s rights and health will be protected and respected
…that Marriage Equality will be accepted Nationally and Globally
…that our Land, Oceans and Wildlife are kept safe from destruction
…that Hatred, Racism and Anti-Semetism disappear from our Earth

 

Of Blessed Memory

Condolences to Dr. Jeffrey and Sharon Lipton and their family on the passing of Sharon’s mother, Ida Bader z”l.  May her memory and spirit bring comfort to all who mourn her passing.

************************************************

Famous Deaths

King Abdullah of Saudi Arabia died this week at the ripe old age of 90 after being hospitalized since December. Because of his country’s oil reserves, he was one of the richest people in the world as he controlled 1/5 of the world’s
petroleum.  His repressive country (women can’t drive and FGM is rampant) was the spark for Radical Islamism and the birthplace of the 9/11 terrorist. The next king will be Abdullah’s bro
Happy Birthday!
Dec. 12th
Carol Blumberg Tarnowsky
Lauren Kepes
Wendy Cohen Kohlenberg
Dec. 13th
Elise Goldsmith Schostak
Liz Cooper Guz
Dec. 14th
Ashley Israel
Marc Shaye
Dec. 15th
Dana Siegel
Dec. 16th
Avi Gruber
Dec. 17th
Simcha Tolwin
Natalie Newman
Dec. 18th
Jeff Mark (dear brother)
Henna Tolwin
Jane Smitt

Blue Stripes
Shabbat Shalom Jan. 23, 2015