Dear Friends and Family,

Instead of 168 hours next week, we will only experience 167 as we lose one this Sunday morning when we “spring” our clocks forward at 2:00am to return to Daylights Saving Time.

An enormous debt of gratitude is due Senator Carl Levin for the (over) Four Decades of Civil Servant work he pursued with his dedication and commitment to our City of Detroit, our State of Michigan, our United States of America and his advocacy to the State of Israel.  I’m sure this decision not to run for another term weighed heavy on him and his family but we are grateful for his 44 years of energy and for the next two years to continue his passions.

So long, Hugo (Chavez) of Venezuela. Condolences to your friends and family. Choosing your friends sends a clear message about your personality and reputation and these were a few of Hugo’s actual friend:  Fidel Castro, Bashar al-Assad,  Mahmoud Ahmadinejad, Sean Pen, Jesse Jackson Jr., Oliver Stone, Jimmy Carter and Noam Chomsky.  I’m sure Dennis Rodman would have been friends too as he “choses his friends” so wisely.

When you’re hoping something will be true, skepticism sometimes flies out the window. During Israel Hate Week, I really wanted the Rolling Stones story to be true, but alas, it was actually a Purim Hoax.  Too many artist (like Jon Bon Jovi, The Yardbirds, Stevie Wonder, Roger Waters and Elvis Costello) have cancelled performances in Israel yet (aside from the Rolling Stones), many high profile entertainers (like Sir Paul McCartney, Sir Elton John, Rihanna and Madonna) aren’t swayed by boycott supporters and happily visit, support and entertain the Israeli public.

Music should be a cultural connector like it is for the 58th annual Eurovision Contest where the theme is equality and unity among the diverse cultural participants.  Our friend, Michael HarPaz is a finalized for the Israeli representative with this beautiful song about his mother, Norma, who just away this year.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NHFENIj8AUs

Fact…the United Nations is bias against Israel, but it wasn’t always that way.  Here is a very interesting, honest and historical overview of the UN from it’s noble beginnings to it current questionable status: http://www.aish.com/jw/me/The-UN-vs-Israel.html  I highly recommend watching this 5 minute video to get a balanced and clear perspective of the relationship between Israel and the UN.   Also, we missed this year’s AIPAC policy conference but found this David Ben-Gurion video quite interesting: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VJczHHcVmNA  And one last Israel youtube addressing Pres. Obama’s upcoming visit to Israel, plus Chuck Hagel and Iran all covered by Stephen Colbert and Michael Oren: http://www.colbertnation.com/the-colbert-report-videos/424390/march-05-2013/obama-s-israel-trip—michael-oren

Within a few days we should discover who our Detroit Emergency Manager will be. Mayor Dave Bing understands that for decades we (both Detroiters and Suburbanites) have allowed our beloved city to deteriorate from Flight, Corruption, Greed, Inadequate Leadership… and it is time to move forward and re-direct the ship. The NY Times had it right, we are a Tale of Two Cities.  We are moving in the right direction but a major overhal needs to take place and hopefully the EM can turn our tides.

As we continue to see the Dow rise each day this week, hope also rises that this indicator plus our decreasing Unemployment Rate are true signs of better times to come. Hopefully sequestration effects won’t hamper this optimism but certainly a compromise in Congress would be welcomed with open arms to add to our optimism.

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

Lisa

I try very hard to keep my info accurate, but it has come to my attention that the Rolling Stones Israel Concert info MIGHT be a Purim Hoax.  I have searched the web and I’m still perplex at the accuracy.

Dear Israeli friends on this list, please let me know the truth about the Rolling Stones and I will correct it in next week’s Shabbat message.

Thanks,

Lisa

Dear Friends and Family,

As we in Michigan were dodging snow flakes on Wednesday, those in Ashkelon, Israelwere dodging a rocket which thankfully fell on an open field.  I know our winter blizzard was a top News Story, but, somehow, I missed the news media’s coverage of the rocket.

As we approach the 9th Annual Israeli Apartheid Week (aka. Israel Hate Week), gratitude should be showered upon the Rolling Stones for snubbing the misguided BDS(Boycott, Divestment, Sanction) activists who unsuccessfully tried to prevent Israeli fans from enjoying the sights and sounds of Mick and his buddies in celebration ofIsrael’s 65th birthday.  Not only did Mick ignore the pressure, he added a 2nd concert, which of course sold out immediately.

Speaking of BDS, maybe those who consider Israel an apartheid state should check out the rapidly growing Israeli Soda Stream Company and their inclusive work environment. Their factory is like a United Nations, though, unlike the real UN, these ethnic and religious representatives actually respect each other.  Check out this eye opening video: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zl85AL1l0H0

To combate Hate Week, the pro-Israel movement instituted Buy Israel Week with these two websites to help:
http://www.buyisraelgoods.org/ and http://www.buyisraelweek.com/

It was another first for Rosa Parks this week as she is the First Black Womento permanently grace the halls of the US Congress with the placement of her immortalizing 9-foot bronze statue. It is fittingly in a seated position as that simple act (now taken for granted) helped fuel the changes needed over 1/2 century ago.

He sported a Lincoln Beard, kept our county healthy and became the most famous Surgeon General. Condolences to the family of C. Everett Koop on his passing this week at the age of 96.  Koop is responsible for elevating the health concerns of tobacco and in 1984 was quoted as recommending to “create a smoke-free society in the United States by the year 2000.” Though we have improved, we still have much progress to achieve with our Smoke-Free country.

Yes, they are never short for a Minyan in Hollywood and many of those working in the industry have a Yiddish Soul, but a percentage of those Billion Oscar viewers last Sunday, who already think Jews control the world, were given more fuel for their bias views from a small animated brown bear named Ted.   I liked Seth MacFarlane‘s hosting style, but this one sketch lacked global forethought.

By the way, you’ll never find an Oscar for sale or at auction, because, since 1950, all winners (and their heirs in perpetuity) have been required to sign an agreement to never sell the statuette unless they offer The Academy first dibs for $1.

Although the Israeli documentary The GateKeepers (testimony of 6 Israeli “Secret Service” chairmen ) didn’t win the Oscar, the prize did go to our Detroit story of singer-songwriter, Rodriguez, who unbeknownst to him,  had a 30 year following by South African diehard fans who thought he was dead. Bravo to the NOW Oscar winning documentary Searching for Sugar Man.

Kol Hakavod (bravo) to the First Jewish Oligarch, Victor Pinchuk from the Ukraine (a former Soviet Union nation) to sign the Giving Pledge (created by Bill Gates) which Very Rich People (VRPs) commit to distributing a majority of their vast wealth to philanthropic causes.  Other notable signers are: Michael Bloomberg, Warren Buffet, George Lucas and our very own Detroiters, Dan and Jennifer Gilbert.  To see photos and quotes from all the signers, check out this website: http://givingpledge.org/

Kudos to the Schusterman Families for establishing the new Israel Institute housed in Washington DC which will catapult the Study of Modern Israel (both in the US and around the world).  The interest level to study Modern Israel has increased substantially as research has shown that within the last 7 years there has been a 70% increase of Modern Israeli courses taught at Universities and Colleges.  For more info, please check out their website: http://israelinstitute.org/

Congrats to Lon Johnson and Bobby Schostak on winning their elections to represent Michigan’s Democratic and Republican parties (respectively).  To impact the important issues concerning our Great State, I hope they are able to encourage legislators to findCommon Ground rather than stubbornly Stand their Ground.  A more serious space where Common Ground is desperately needed is inside the Beltway.  The US public is exhausted with this stalemate and deserve some progress on our debt debacle. The affects of sequestration most be prevented.  BUT, thanks ARE due to Congress (this week) for the passage of the reauthorization of the Violence Against Women Act.

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

Lisa

P.S. Many have asked if I am up Friday mornings at 6:00am (Det. time) to send these emails.  Well, no.  I write and edit them throughout the week and send the final version to my system Thursday evening to be scheduled anytime I choose.  So, as of this moment (Thursday evening), I don’t know WHO our Detroit Emergency Manager is, but we do anticipate a new era for our beloved and struggling city.

Dear Friends and Family,

Bravo to the Women of the Wall, and I’m not talking about the Pink Floyd Female Fan club, I’m taking about the brave women who continue to get arrested at the Kotel (Western Wall of the 2nd Temple ruins) just because they believe praying in this sacred space should be equally accessible to both genders and all religious streams. Many men, (includingDr. Yitzhak Yifat, in the center of both photos, was one of the IDF paratroopers who liberated the Kotel in 1967) were present to support the women’s monthly prayer session as they wore (forbidden for women) prayer shawls and tefillin.

This is just one of the symptoms of the Ulta-Orthodox (Haredim) influenced Government which must be updated to reflex the modern Israeli society. The Israeli population is about 20% Haredi, yet most don’t contribute to the work force (because they are full-time Talmud students), require separate schools, have many children and are exempt from Army Service.  There is hope on the horizon with new Knesset member (American born) Rabbi Dov Lipman from the (Central) Yesh Atid (There is a Future) political party. Though he is from the Haredi community,  he sees the importance of compromise between the Ultra-Orthodox agenda and the main stream of society.  I pray he can make some progress.

Speaking of the Haredi community, here is a wonderful organization, Footsteps, that helps those raised in the insular Ultra-Orthodox community here in the US who wish to enter and acclimate to modern society.  You’d be surprised how foreign modern life is to them.  Thanks, Ariella, spotlighting this agency. http://www.footstepsorg.org/about.php

Why, is the question that a billion devotees are speculating after hearing this week’s announcement of the Pope’s resignation (the first to do so in 600 years).  Is it the failings of his mind and/or body (though this never stopped previous Popes) or is it the continued scandals and mismanagement that keeps plaguing the Vatican.  Another big questions is who will be the next Pope.  Are Catholics ready for an African or Latin American Pope?

As it now heads to the House for approval, bravo to the Senate for renewing the Violence Against Women Act(with amendments to help combat adult and child trafficking among other improvements).  22 Republican Senators voted against this bill, including Lindsey Graham (SC), Orrin Hatch (UT), Mitch McConnell (KY), Rand Paul (KY) and Marco Rubio (FL).  I wonder what their reasons were for NOT continuing the protections for their mothers, sisters, daughters and friends against violence and abuse.  A billion women and men danced all over the globe this past V Day (Feb. 14th) as a global expression to protect ALL mothers, sisters, daughters and friends from violence and abuse. Bravo to Eve Ensler for starting this movement.

We just entered the Year of the Black Snake according to the Chinese calendar. It is suppose to bring steady progress and a focus on details for this New Year.  Our City of Detroit could use some steady progress yet it might take an Emergency Manager to focus on the details needed to move us in the right direction.

Mazel Tov to Carole King on receiving the Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award which was presented to her daughters on her 71st birthday.  I’m not sure why she didn’t accept on her own behalf but either way, it is well deserved.  Carole King and James Taylor were my first Guest Shabbat Shalom Greeters. If you missed it the first time, here it is again: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KgMadBJJmkE

Kelly Clarkson won a grammy for her song Stronger, but this lip sync version speaks volumes about true strength.  Please be forewarned, if you tend to get emotional or have a connection with cancer, this might elicit tears:
http://www.facebook.com/photo.php?v=525615210792991

Farewell to Rabbi David Hartman (who died this week at age 81).  He was the founder of the Shalom Hartman Institute which focuses on pluralist Jewish education and progressive thought.  Also, Farewell to Chris Kyle (Navy Seal Hero and Author) who was gunned down by a fellow troubled Vet he was trying to help.  Another example of how mental illness (PTSD Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder) and Guns should never mix. Incidentally, Bradley Cooper is currently working on transforming Chris’ book into a movie, so I assume we’ll continue to hear more about this American Hero.

In our Attention Deficit world of high speed data, here is an incredible (literally) World History in 2 minutes.  Thanks Michelle R, for sharing.
http://www.youtube.com/watch_popup?v=MrqqD_Tsy4Q

If you took part in Fat Tuesday this week, I hope it was followed by Weight Watchers Wednesday!

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

Lisa

Post Script (aka. P.S.) and just for fun, whether you are a Jerry Lewis Fan or a Family Guy Fan, you should enjoy this youtube:  http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wBASVon3dhs

Speaking of progressive… from 1800 until just last week, a French law has remained on the books that prevented women from wearing pants.  The law has be altered throughout the years (for exceptions like bike and horseback riding) but never removed until France’s Minister for Women’s Rights finally (in the 21st century) made in Null and Void.  We, in the US, have many laws that need “Nulling and Voiding”, like women aren’t allow to wear patent leather shoes in Cleveland or alter their hair without permission from their spouse in (my home state of) Michigan.  I’m not sure who has authority over your hair if you’re not married.  Maybe your father, brother or nearest male relative…

Another progressive move (though also overdue) was the acceptance of our Federal guidelines for immigrants to acquire Driver’s Licenses. Just after I “shamed” our Michigan Sec. of State in last week’s email, she switched gears and will now follow the rules and distribute the much needed licenses.  I take Zero credit for this change of heart as Ms. Ruth Johnston is NOT on this email list but kudos to whoever got her to do the right thing.

Also mentioned a few times in these emails (during the election season) was the fact that most of our presidents (post 1948) hadn’t visited Israel until their 2nd term, and this holds true for President Obama (though he was in Israel in 2008 as a Senator).  It was just announced that Israel will be Pres. Obama first foreign destination during his 2nd term.

One fact about our Old City of Jerusalem that might be confusing is that the (Golden) Dome of the Rock (a Muslim Shrine) was built right on top of the (Jewish) sacred grounds of the destroyed 2nd Temple.  Jerusalem was fought over and ruled by many different faiths throughout her 5,000 year history and in 691 BE the Dome was built to commemorate the site where Muslims believe Mohammad ascended on his night journey to heven. When this Israeli tourism video was produced, they needed to carefully explain the Old City’s history.  I think they did a great job:http://www.timesofisrael.com/golden-dome-goes-poof-in-ministry-vid/

Our human bodies are miraculous…both durable yet fragile at the same time.  Are bones are strong, our organs are protected, our system is brilliantly conceived (by whom or what, I’m not sure) with numerous defensive mechanism.  Yet, we are not invincible to bullets or bacteria.  This week 2 deaths reminds us that life is fragile and should be appreciated. Condolences to the family and friends of (48-year-old) Steve Singer, who grew up in West Bloomfield but lived his adult life in Arizona. A legal disputed erupted with gun fire that took Steve’s life, which is another reminder that serious gun control measures are needed SOON.  Also, condolences to the family and friends of (19-year-old) Emily Stillman of West Bloomfield, who died this past weekend from bacterial meningitis.  This weekend is also the 1 year anniversary of the car accident that took the life of dear friend, Jeff Zaslow. The life and health of our loved ones is a precious gift we must cherish and appreciate.

This new song by Matisyahu called “Searchin” resinated with me.  Something about the chorus just grabbed me.   I hope you enjoy it too: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6Klut6WK0dw

Farewell to:
– Ed Koch, New York’s 105th Mayor, who was mourned by thousands at his funeral this week.
–Monopoly Iron…welcome Monopoly Cat.
–Saturday USPS delivery as of August.  We will welcome the $2 billion a year savings long before we miss our Saturday Junk Mail.
–Stewie, the World’s longest cat, who died of cancer this week.  Last week’s email spotlighted dogs so it only seemed fair to include a cat in this week’s message:http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2013/02/06/stewie-worlds-longest-cat-dead-cancer_n_2629533.html?ref=topbar

Wishing you and your loved ones a Healthy, Sweet and Peaceful Shabbat Shalom,

Lisa

Dear Friends and Family,

We had a great time in DC to witness the 57th inauguration of our 44th president.  The city was hopping with about 1 million celebrants and
more than a few dignitaries.  We ran into Senator Chuck Schumer at Starbucks on Sunday.  Did you know his name means Guard in Hebrew which is fitting as he is guarding our nation from his Senate seat. And for those who watched the swearing in, he was also the guard/MC/chairman for the Inaugural Committee. We also saw friends Jocelyn B, Gary & Colleen P, Eric and Dina F, Hy & his father Jim, Orna & Keenan W, Richard & Kathryn L, Debbie & John D, Sandy & Pam L to mention a few.  Here are some photos.

Addressing our Nation                        Parading Pennsylvania Ave.                                   Like the fedora?

“For history tells us that while these truths may be self-evident, they’ve never been self-executing; that while freedom is a gift from God, it must be secured by His people here on Earth.”  President Barack Obama, Jan. 21, 2013.

As these words were spoken, they struck a cord in me.  I found the message universal. We may know what is right. We may say what is right.  But only our actions will prove our intentions.  We must continue our mission and passions in life by acting out our will.  To borrow from Nike… “Just Do It” is a good reminder when contemplating your next step (as long as its a step in a positive direction).

With the festivities over, its time to make some progress on several urgent issues.  One, of course, is the safety and wellbeing of our citizens.  Since Newtown (only 43 days ago), there have been 1,210 gun deaths in our country. It seems like you hear of another shooting everyday.  Just this week a 15 year old in New Mexico gunned down his mother, father and 3 young siblings.  This website is keeping a tally of every gun death that has occurred since Newtown.  We need to take some action to halt this growing list.
http://www.slate.com/articles/news_and_politics/crime/2012/12/gun_death_tally_every_american_gun_death_since_newtown_sandy_hook_shooting.html

“Yesh Atid” (translates to) “There is a Future” for a Central Political Party in Israel.  Elections took place on Tuesday and newcomer Yair Lapid’s new central party, Yesh Atid, got a whopping 19 seats, right behind Bibi’s 31 seats.  Yair’s next step is to form a coalition to help move the country forward so he can curb the cost of living and limit the power and influence of the ultra-orthodox agenda.  Yair is young (49), charismatic, passionate and diplomatic. Time will tell if he has the “right stuff” to harness the complex Israeli parliamentary system and navigate the society to prosperity and security.  I know Yair would agree that Tel Aviv is the most innovative city of the year so let’s help make it clear to the rest of the world by voting here: http://online.wsj.com/ad/cityoftheyear

Don’t forget to plant or hug a tree this weekend in celebration of our Jewish Holiday of Tu B’Shevat also known as the New Year for the trees as this is the time in Israel when the trees awaken from their winter schnooz and start thinking about new growth.  Its interesting that only two weeks ago in Jerusalem the ground was covered with snow, so I hope the trees aren’t too confused.  Thanks, Susie C for sharing these photos.

Shimon and Bibi?                                                                          Snow covered prayers

I don’t know who this Matt fella is but he sure gets around, including Jerusalem, Detroit and all points in between.  Check out this incredible video which I’m sure must have taken months to complete.  Dance certainly is a universal languge. Enjoy and thanks Ettagail for sharing:
https://www.youtube.com/embed/Pwe-pA6TaZk?rdl=0

My dear friend, Diane O, has been in India for the last couple of weeks with this handsome Indian guide who is wishing us Shabbat Shalom in front of the Taj Mahal:  http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=G_kPqoOR4gU&feature=youtu.be

Bravo to India for taking a hard look at the unjust, unequal, unacceptable, inexcusable treatment of women taking place everyday on their streets.  As mentioned above, looking, speaking, investigating are all great, but it only action that will bring the change that is needed.

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

Lisa