Community Magazine September 2009

Tefillin Checks Reveal 20 Percent Have Problems Over the course of three Sundays in July, competent sofrim (scribes) appeared at three Jersey Shore synagogues, Ohel Yaakob (Lawrence Avenue Synagogue), Ohel Simha (Park Avenue Synagogue) and Magen Abraham (West Long Branch Synagogue), in order to check the validity of congregants’ tefillin . The professional sofrim completed a sight check of the outside of each pair of tefillin to ensure that the edges were sufficiently squared off; that the housings were entirely black; and that the knots were correctly tied in accordance with halacha . They also examined the way each person wore his tefillin to confirm proper fit and placement. Of the over 300 pairs of tefillin that were checked, about 20 percent were found to be pasul (invalid), while another 60 percent required adjustments. The high rate of issues found underscored the importance of conducting periodic checks of tefillin . The July events were sponsored by generous synagogue members and organizers are planning similar programs in the future. To sponsor a check or to arrange one in your school or synagogue, call 732-447-5728. Inspired by Women of Valor Dozens of women gathered on July 23 rd in the home of Isaac and Frieda Yedid for the annual Women of Valor day of inspiration. The yearly gathering consistently draws impressive crowds and features speeches by rabbis, renowned speakers, and even some every day “women of valor” who have grown spiritually and wish to inspire others by sharing their stories. The event began with a moving address by Rabbi Meyer Yedid, who, in light of current events, discussed the dangers of falling into despair. The rabbi’s address was followed by special presentations delivered by Laurie Abadie, Shirley Gemal and Marielle Hanan. They told their personal stories of religious growth, specifically in the area of modesty. The inner strength and conviction which they described served as a powerful source of encouragement for everyone in attendance. Meanwhile, over the course of the event, the entire book of Tehillim was recited at least 10 times! Another highlight was an address by Mrs. Carol Haber, who emphasized that each woman must channel her individual personality toward avodat Hashem (service of Gd). “Hashem does not want identical soldiers,” she said. “Everyone’s strengths are necessary and must be channeled and used within the framework of proper and appropriate behavior.” ICRF Honors Leading Cancer Doctors The Israel Cancer Research Fund/ICRF held an Evening of Cancer Awareness on July 26th at the home of Lisa and Isaac Oved in Deal. Several hundred members of the local community came to listen and learn from leading cancer specialists who were honored for their important work in the fight against cancer. Sadie Jemal-Meyers, a community member and recipient of the 2008 ICRF Tower of Hope Humanitarian award, joined the Oveds in welcoming the guests. Mrs.Meyerswas presented with an award for her outstanding commitment to ICRF’s mission by ICRF Chairman Dr. Yashar Hirshaut. Charles Ben Dayan, an ICRF Trustee, presented a special award to Lisa and Isaac Oved for their generous support of cancer research in Israel. Other honorees included Dr. Patrick Borgen, Chief of Breast Surgery at Maimonides Medical Center, and surgical oncologist at Memorial Sloan- Kettering Cancer Center. Dr. Borgen observed how cancer has become a great American victory: “For the first time in my 20-year career, cancer is no longer treated as a single disease, but as a large field of complicated diseases.” Dr. Lawrence Helson, head of the Pediatric Cancer Lab at Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center, was recognized for his important contributions in cancer research Dr. Hirshaut, a leading medical oncologist, was also honored at the event. In his address, Dr. Hirshaut told the audience about ICRF’s mission to raise funds to support scientists in Israel in their attempts to find a cure for cancer. Since 1975, ICRF has awarded 1,689 grants, totaling nearly $37 million, to scientists in all the major institutions in Israel. Hirshaut stressed the importance of continued support of cancer research in Israel, adding, “I believe that the cure for cancer will come from Israel’s outstanding scientific community.” Award presentations were given to Jacqueline and Max Harary, who shared a personal story about their son, who is a cancer survivor. Geralyn Lucas, author and a recipient of the ICRF 2006 Women of Action award, shared her personal journey with breast cancer beginning at the age of 27. She reinforced the theme of the evening ─ the critical importance of research in the search for a cure for cancer. To find out more about ICRF, please call the Israel Cancer Research Fund at 212- 969-9800, or visit the ICRF website at www. icrfonline.org . Community Chest Dr. Yashar Hirshaut, Chairman of the Israel Cancer Research Fund 106 CoMMUniTy MagazinE