By Miriam Liebman

In the months following Hurricane Katrina, our country turned its eyes to New Orleans, shocked. Questions were asked about the federal government’s aptitude, the Army Corps of Engineers and local Louisiana government. Time and again the question was raised: Why New Orleans? Why rebuild a city built on swampland? To many, the answer was simple: community, culture and legacy.

Spending time in New Orleans through AVODAH: The Jewish Service Corps, I became inspired by what it meant to build community after unparalleled devastation, particularly, Jewish community.

Having grown up in Farmington Hills, I moved to Detroit a year and a half ago to participate in the revitalization of Detroit and its Jewish community. I have been humbled to realize that while much of my motivation for moving was about building community, I have little idea about how to best do so. When I first arrived, I, too, was not aware of the nuances that make up the way we talk about, interact with and build community in Detroit.

The recent shift in the image of Detroit has been from that of extreme crime and poverty to that of a blank slate and a place of opportunity. What I have found is that this language, although intended to be both positive and powerful, excludes all people experiencing high poverty and low opportunity currently living in Detroit.

Best intentions cannot save Detroit or its people. We must begin with humility and respect. We must highlight positive efforts of those engaged in community-based work currently in the city. We must acknowledge our privilege to love, to build relationships and to experience opportunity.

In his 1963 speech “Religion and Race,” Rabbi Abraham Joshua Heschel aptly noted, “… the history of mankind may be described as the history of the tension between power and equality.”

I fear that the more the Jewish community assumes power among those rebuilding Detroit, the more we ignore equality in the name of revitalization. We all envision a better, safer, healthier Detroit and yet, there is no easy solution nor quick fix. In 1963, Heschel advocated for social equality. In 2012, our city remains so unequal that to many, we are the epitome of American industrial failure.

This fall, I will leave Detroit to enter my first year of rabbinical school. After many series of interviews, I was finally asked, “Why Detroit? Why care so deeply about a city as depressed as ours?”

I knew how to answer questions about my Jewish journey, why the rabbinate and even my relationship with the Divine. But “Why Detroit?” struck me. In the end, the answer was simple: community, culture and legacy.

Detroiters speculate on course of “shocking” new unity government.

Benjamin Netanyahu and Shaul Mofaz

On Tuesday, May 8, the people of Israel woke up to “one huge political shock,” said Kobi Erez, a native Israeli who heads the West Bloomfield-based Zionist Organization of America-Michigan Region.

The centrist Kadima leader Shaul Mofaz and the conservative Likud Prime Minister Benjamin “Bibi” Netanyahu — once bitter rivals — decided to join together, forming one of the largest government coalitions in the nation’s history. The new coalition now controls 94 votes in the 120-member Knesset (a 78 percent majority).

The new unity government has postponed by more than a year new elections, scheduled two weeks ago by Netanyahu for Sept. 4.

“I was surprised, as were most people who follow Israeli politics, to see a swift change, literally from one day to the next, canceling early elections with the formation of a new ruling coalition,” said Allan Gale, associate director of the Jewish Community Relations Council of Metropolitan Detroit.

Allan Gale

“Israel’s democracy is strong, resilient, vibrant and amazing. But its parliamentary system is quite different from that of the U.S.,” he added.

Israeli-born businessman Hannan Lis, COO of the WW Group Inc. in Farmington Hills, had a favorable reaction.

“I am not a Likud supporter, but I think this development is an indication that Bibi has indeed come a long way as a politician,” he said.

“This was a savvy move by Bibi and Mofaz, which may actually be in Israel’s best interest. An early election at this time would have created unnecessary distraction.”

In announcing the new coalition, Netanyahu stated four goals for his realigned, dominant government:

1. To bring a just and egalitarian alternative to the Tal Law [which provides military exemptions for the ultra-Orthodox],

2. To plan a responsible budget,

3. To try to promote a responsible peace process where security is maintained. [Renewed attempts to restart talks with the Palestinians and, perhaps, a unified stand against Iran],

4. To change the governmental system.

Jeremy Salinger

Jeremy Salinger, a past president of Oak Park-based Ameinu Detroit (formerly Labor Zionist Alliance), said, “What I care about is whether the new government will be more centrist, which would be more consistent with the consensus of the Israeli electorate.

“I hope that the large majority that the Likud-Kadima coalition has will allow them to take some bold steps to address the challenges Israel faces, both domestically and internationally. I think the change will bolster the influence of the more centrist elements in the Likud party and reverse the recent trend toward ethnocentrism and theocracy.

“I’m pleased with what they say are their priorities,” Salinger said. “I’m hopeful the goals they expressed will lead to several positive changes.”

Universal Service
“Simply put, many Israelis take issue with the fact that most of the ultra-Orthodox [haredi] community do not serve in the Israeli Defense Forces — and are calling for a change to the status quo,” ZOA’s Erez said.

Kobi Erez

Lis thinks the new coalition creates an opportunity to resolve this “important issue” for everyone.

“Just being able to create a credible and effective law to better integrate the haredi community and the Israeli Arab community into the mainstream of Israeli society through participation in the burden of military/national service would be a great step forward.”

Erez suggested a possible path.

“As opposed to those who suggest integration of the ultra-Orthodox into the army by force (i.e., jail or financial sanctions for those who refuse), Netanyahu and Mofaz seem to understand that the best way to integrate this community is through cooperation and communication between the two sides, not by splitting an already divided nation with fear and intimidation tactics.

“It seems that the ultra-Orthodox political coalitions have a similar impression of the new team as they expressed their approval of the addition of Kadima to the coalition.”

Economic Recovery
Regarding Israel’s budget, Gale referenced the economic inequities affecting the middle and lower classes that led to “tent-city” demonstrations last year.

“A new generation of young people with serious concerns about their future is to be reckoned with,” he said.

Said Erez, “The [opposition] Labor Party has proposed a national budget that would promote a socialized market with an increase in the amount of government employees and spending. Socializing the market without proper balance will raise the national deficit and limit competition, which will reduce economic growth. A strictly social budget in Israel would create a similar economic atmosphere to failing markets in Europe such as Greece and Spain.

“As part of its deal in joining Likud, Kadima had to agree to support responsible budgets that promote free market values, a viewpoint that has been adopted in Israel over the last decade and has made it more resilient to world recession and unstable markets.”

War And Peace

Rabbi Herschel Finman

Rabbi Herschel Finman, who hosts the The Jewish Hour from 11-noon Sundays on WLQV 1500-AM radio, said that whatever efforts are made in the peace process with the Palestinians — the security of Israel must not be compromised.

“The Torah perspective is very clear,” he said. “Under no circumstances can any process be evoked that will endanger Jewish lives. The Palestinians have never recognized Israel’s right to exist. They have never stopped their propaganda of incitement.

“Netanyahu proclaimed that if you take all the guns away from the Arabs, nothing will happen. If you take guns away from the Israelis — there will be no Israel.”

Finman sees the security issue as compelling — all others issues being “matters of Israel’s internal affairs.”

Lis sees a new opportunity for peace talks.

“The broader coalition may provide Bibi with the support he needs to move forward with effective negotiations with the Palestinians,” he said. “I think Bibi will be smart to use the broad coalition to take the initiative on the diplomatic front.”

Hannan Lis

Erez did not agree.

“In my opinion, the joining of Kadima and Likud will not change the status of negotiations with the Palestinians,” he said. “The fact that Palestinians refuse to acknowledge Israel as a Jewish state, refuse to give up the right of return and continue to commit acts of terror has not changed.

“This new unity between the parties might promote some talks between the Israelis and the Palestinians, but soon enough they will come to a dead end again,” he said.

Salinger thought there were possibilities for an agreement that provides security for Israel and the Palestinians with a viable state. “Many times, Bibi has said that Israel is ready to make hard decisions to achieve a lasting resolution to the conflict with the Palestinians,” he said.

“I also have read reports that Shaul Mofaz made some bold proposals. In the past, Bibi’s excuse has been that his government was too fragile for bold moves. Now that that excuse is gone, we’ll see what happens.”

Gale considered the nuclear threat from Iran.

“Will the new government be able to unify the country and the political establishment on what actions are necessary to take?” he asked. Some commentators have speculated that the unity government makes the possibility of a preemptive attack on Iran more likely. In either case, if Israel chooses to strike Iran or rely on U.S.-led diplomacy, there will be a political consensus.

“With Iran and the global economy still a major concern,” said Lis, “having a broad coalition with a strong centrist element will allow for better decision-making that is more fact/issue based rather then an outcome of coalition political gamesmanship.

“For Bibi, having Mofaz representing the center of Israeli politics may be just what he needs at this point. This may be one of these rare occasions when political interests fit well within the overall national interests. Time will tell.”

Revamped Government
The two leaders also may try to institute changes in the Israeli political system to limit the power of small parties, which in the past have extracted political and budgetary concessions to help form majority governments in the Knesset.

“Netanyahu and Mofaz understand the advantages of them working together, forming a coalition with a majority of secular parties with a concurrent reduction in the influence of smaller parties,” said Gale.

“They also understand that politics are changing in Israel. Personalities and media images are important. So are new vehicles for communicating messages. And a new generation of young people with serious concerns about their future is to be reckoned with.”

Salinger said he would like to see more emphasis on accepting the diversity that exists in the country, leading to better legislation to ensure civil rights, social justice and economic reform. He added that he would like to see more acceptance of the rule of law, reducing corruption and halting attempts to ignore or bypass the rulings of the Israeli Supreme Court.

The first test for the new coalition will be the West Bank Jewish settlement at Beit El, which the Supreme Court ordered destroyed as illegal, said Erez.

“Whether Bibi will side with the political right and legalize the settlement, or with Kadima, who has stated that the government should not create laws to counter Supreme Court rulings, is yet to be determined.

“If the new coalition can reach an agreement on this issue without splitting up,” he said, “it is likely the government will complete its term as a whole which, truth be told, is a rather rare occurrence in Israel.”

By David Sachs, Senior Copy Editor

Ilai’s mother was drained- emotionally and physically. Her six year old son was battling cancer and chemotherapy was not working. She thought she had used up every bit of energy. She thought she had cried out every tear. And then the unthinkable happened. Her 71 year old mother was stricken, too. Mommy watched in awe as Ilai and Grandma rallied together to strengthen each other. Each was told that a bone marrow transplant was their only chance and so they waited together while Ezer Mizion, the largest Jewish bone marrow registry in the world, searched. Each praying for the other, they held their breath.

Grandma’s joy was palpable when a donor was found for Ilai in Ezer Mizion’s Bone Marrow Registry and he underwent a successful transplant. But Ilai’s happiness was far from complete. The bond between him and his grandmother was strong-almost as if they were one person- and it felt as if he only received half a transplant. Three months later, a fully compatible donor was found for his grandmother as well. “We lived from transplant to transplant,” Mommy relates. “We went from hospital to hospital and from isolation to isolation for many, long months. Their immune systems were so weak that they could not go out among people at all.”

 “They shared that special brotherhood of fellow fighters,” Mommy explains. “Because of the illness, neither one had an appetite, and they both steadily lost weight. The only thing that persuaded Ilai to eat was his Grandma’s motto, ‘Every bite counts.’ He adopted the motto and resolutely finished the food on his plate.”

Once a week, when 6-year-old Ilai returns from follow-up tests at the hematological unit at Schneider Children’s Hospital and his Grandma Zelda Katz returns from tests at Sheba Tel Hashomer Hospital, the two meet for “Story Time”.  It’s not Curious George that the two share during their story time. It’s blood test results. “But only if it’s a good story,” they turn to each other with a grin. “Nothing is too tough for us to handle when we are in it together.”

 “Grandma was a real hero,” says Ilai. “It hurt me that she was so sick. I prayed for her to get well.” Grandma Zelda, on her part, relates that Ilai was the one who gave her the strength to prevail over the illness.

Now the two are waiting patiently for the moment that Zelda will conclude the required isolation period following the bone marrow transplant. “And then we celebrate,” shouts Ilai with a whoop that only a six year old can make. “All of us together!”

“If I had the opportunity to delete this entire year, I’m not sure I would want to,” Mommy confides. “We got to know such special people at Ezer Mizion who stood at our side and fought along with us. These are things you discover only when you are thrust into such a painful situation. And we found that nothing is too tough for us to handle when we are in it together.”

To share the anguish of a similar family whose child was diagnosed with cancer, click play and join them in  their tears of tears of joy as the life of their child is returned to them by an Ezer Mizion registrant. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1m1MoTvnZ8c

For further info: www.ezermizion.org

Vadim Avshalumov

Azerbaijan was the home of Vadim Avshalumov until he moved to Israel. He’d then travel about 6,000 miles to Southfield where he would live in a cramped one-bedroom apartment with his family.

His education was centered at Hillel Day School in Farmington Hills and the Frankel Jewish Academy in West Bloomfield. He’d go on to Columbia University and the Jewish Theological Seminary in New York. A year was spent in England working for the Assembly of Masorti Synagogues. By the time this is published, he’ll probably be hours away from graduating from the University of Michigan in Ann Arbor with a master’s degree in urban planning.

His next stop, he hopes, is the city of Detroit.

Avshalumov, now 26, of West Bloomfield is one of several finalists from Jewish Detroit in a unique program called Challenge Detroit, which will invite 30 visionary “leaders of tomorrow” to positively impact the city of Detroit from August 2012 to July 2013. Sixty-six finalists remain of the 900 that applied from around the world. The latest round of judging included online votes from 17,000 individuals. Those selected will be announced publicly on May 21.

Jared Berman

Joining Avshalumov as one of the 66 finalists are Zachary Berlin of Farmington Hills, graduating this semester from the Gerald R. Ford School of Public Policy at the University of Michigan with a bachelor of arts in public policy; Jared Berman of Farmington Hills, graduating this semester from the Eli Broad College of Business at Michigan State University with a bachelor of arts in finance and a specialization in international business; Dana Schostak of Birmingham, graduating this semester from the University of Michigan with a bachelor of arts in sociology; Darin Gross of West Bloomfield, graduating this semester from the Eli Broad College of Business at Michigan State University with a bachelor of arts in finance; and Isaac Gilman, graduating this semester from the University of Michigan with a master’s degree in urban planning.

The idea for Challenge Detroit was envisioned in 2009 by Doyle Mosher, a partner in Mosher Dolan, a Birmingham-based building firm. This is the first year of the Challenge Detroit competition, which aims to find leaders with the intelligence, passion and commitment to move the city forward. The participants will work approximately 32 hours per week at one of the host companies, which include Quicken Loans, Mango Languages, United Way for Southeastern Michigan, DTE Energy and Focus:HOPE.

Mitch Mondry

The participants receive monthly $500 subsidies to live in selected areas of Detroit, and they will be invited to monthly social and cultural activities by local organizations and participate in monthly team challenges, such as a TechTown project to further social entrepreneurship in our region.

Mosher is very bullish on the prospects for Detroit. Beyond the creation of opportunity for young residents, he wants this to advance “relentless positive messaging” for the region. Mosher wants Challenge Detroit to help “move this region from a message of despair to a message of hope.”

Mitch Mondry of Birmingham, a current board member of Challenge Detroit, has been involved in the program since it was a gem of an idea three years ago. To him, it seems like the kind of thing that can turn the tide for Detroit and generate excitement and enthusiasm locally and nationally to activate positive buzz for the community. Mondry says this is one important piece to the puzzle, along with many other initiatives going on right now.

“The Jewish community has a strong history of leadership in Detroit, and it is incumbent upon us as Jewish leaders to retain and recruit the next generation of leaders,” he said.

“I believe Detroit is the future,” said Berlin. “I want to be on the cutting edge of the energy flowing into the city … My dream is to work with a community of innovators who are committed to our city. We can make a difference. One individual, one community, one vote at a time.”

Zac Berlin

Berlin constantly hears from friends who express a passion to move to Detroit. “They want to have an impact in a way they could not during a typical 9-5 job in Chicago or New York.”

Berlin acknowledges the current challenges — from unemployment and crime to poverty and poor education — and he understands that one leader cannot solve all of these problems. That’s why he is attracted to the collaborative nature of Challenge Detroit.

Avshalumov, too, echoes that approach. He has researched methods for increasing job opportunities, providing better housing and figuring out how communities can control their destinies. He plans to apply the skills that he’s learned studying Detroit’s social, economic and cultural realities, and while researching what other cities have done to improve their economies and empower their residents.

“We all know the city is making a comeback,” Berlin said. “It can be seen by the influx of philanthropists, business leaders and public officials all making the revitalization of Detroit a top priority. All that’s missing is the next generation of leaders. Challenge Detroit helps to fill this gap.”

Dana Schostak, a former intern with the North American Development Team at the Birthright Israel Foundation, envisions a year of cooperation amongst the other change-makers in the city. She says that her readiness to work with people and revive our community has driven her to want to make a difference.

“I have a strong desire to work with colleagues to create a positive impact for those in need, and I am determined to turn Detroit, my home, back into the thriving city that it once was.”

Berman, chairman of MSU Hillel Arts & Culture and past-president of the MSU Hillel Jewish Business Association, is excited about the “incredible people and projects” rooted in Detroit’s creative foundation. He wants to build onto it for the benefit of others and the benefit of the city. In the past year, he has interned at Detroit Venture Partners, Dan Gilbert’s venture capital arm, and launched an apparel company with a small loan from the Hebrew Free Loan Association.

It was also an internship with Detroit Venture Partners that ignited Gross’ commitment to Detroit. He says that working in Detroit and seeing the changes going on was a life-changing experience.

“Instantly, I was able to find the passion and direction I was seeking,” he said. “The summer showed me how much opportunity Detroit has to grow as well as the positive energy from the people that want to contribute. With my passion, I know I can help make a better Detroit a reality.”

A common theme arose durng these interviews with the finalists. It is summed up by one of the many lessons Berlin learned at the University of Michigan’s Hillel.

“An engaged community really can change the world, or in this case, a city.”

By Adam Finkel, Special to the Jewish News

Putting a modern twist on an ancient tradition.

Rabbi Marla Hornsten at the Temple Israel mikvah (Brett Mountain)

The age-old custom of mikvah is taking some new turns as modern Jewish women expand the tradition and dispel some of the negative beliefs that have long been associated with the ritual.

Use of the mikvah has become more widespread in recent years, with a proliferation of ritual bath facilities throughout the United States and Europe. Many of these are quite spacious and luxurious, even with custom tile work, like Mikvah Israel in Oak Park. While the mikvah once was used primarily by prospective brides and observant wives in accordance with the Jewish laws of family purity, now the mikvah is used for a variety of other life-changing situations, including recovery from illness, becoming a grandparent or surviving a death or divorce.

Mikvahs are featured in many articles, websites and books, including The Ritual Bath by Jewish mystery writer Faye Kellerman. Even Oprah has gotten into the act, visiting (but not immersing in) a mikvah during her televised tour of two New York Hassidic neighborhoods.

What Is A Mikvah?
A mikvah is a body of water designed for immersion according to the rules and customs of Jewish law. According to the website www.mikvah.org, the pool, which contains about 200 gallons, must be filled with living waters from a flowing source that has never been dormant, such as fresh spring water, rainwater or even melted snow. The tradition is based on the belief that water, as the primary source of all living things, has the power to purify, restore and replenish.

The original purpose of the mikvah was to facilitate the observance of the Jewish laws of family purity, or taharas hamishpachah, which require periods of separation and reunion as part of married life. The separation, a time when the couple refrains from physical intimacy, begins with the onset of the menstrual flow and continues for seven days after it ends. The woman visits the mikvah after sundown on the seventh day, and then they can resume their sexual relationship.

Dispelling The Myths
Some modern Jewish women have eschewed the tradition because they believe it fosters a negative view of women. One woman remembers her mother’s horror stories about the stern mikvah attendants who examined her fingernails and admonished her for being unclean. Itty Shemtov, religious educator and wife of Rabbi Kasriel Shemtov of The Shul in West Bloomfield, says quite the opposite is true; the mikvah provides a symbolic rebirth that enhances the spirituality of the woman and the marital relationship.

“The tradition of mikvah introduces sanctity to marriage,” she said. “It promotes greater intimacy between husband and wife.”

Shemtov explained a pre-wedding visit to the mikvah is part of the spiritual and physical preparation for marital intimacy, which Judaism considers a holy act.

“The ritual is based on the Jewish concept of water as a source that cleanses, refreshes and rejuvenates,” she said. “Each detail relating to the mikvah — its size, the type of water used — has a mystical origin.”

She said the ritual of mikvah brings an element of romance to marriage and provides an opportunity for women to do some private soul searching about themselves and their relationship. A woman’s monthly visit is usually anticipated by both husband and wife.

“It’s considered a special night; some call it their own private monthly honeymoon,” Shemtov said.

This view is shared by Rachel M. (not her real name), who uses the mikvah on a regular basis, according to the laws of family purity.

“I like having my own space within the marriage,” she said. “It’s a spiritual time, and it’s given us a deeper level of respect for one another. It also makes the marriage more romantic.”

She believes that, like the ritual of mikvah, the role of observant women is misunderstood by much of modern society.

“People do not understand the empowerment that women have and how they give that to their families. We’re not walking three steps behind; we’re not turning the necks and heads of men; we’re helping to enrich the souls and minds of our husbands and children.”

Creating New Traditions
At Temple Israel in West Bloomfield, the first Reform congregation in the country to build its own mikvah, Rabbi Marla Hornsten is constantly looking for new and creative ways to use the facility.

Rabbi Marla Horsten of Temple Israel with a “mikvah bag” given to recent converts who immerse in the mikvah. (Brett Mountain)

In addition to the traditional uses, which include conversions, pre-wedding visits and High Holiday preparation, Hornsten has helped women use the mikvah for various kinds of healing ceremonies, both physical and emotional, including dealing with cancer, divorce, death, miscarriage or other life crises.

“Part of healing is moving forward,” Hornsten said. “Some people are carrying baggage or bitterness, and this helps them let go.”

For nontraditional situations, Hornsten often writes a custom service with personalized prayers, poems or readings.

“If you can dream it, we can do it,” she said. “We want to be as creative and innovative as we can. I like taking something old and making it new again.”

The Temple Israel Mikvah is widely used by members of the Reform and Conservative movements; it is available to the community regardless of synagogue affiliation.

In addition to accompanying brides, often with their mothers or close girlfriends, Rabbi Rachel Shere of Adat Shalom Synagogue in Farmington Hills has taken women who are recovering from illness, going through divorce or trying to start a family to the mikvah.

“The word mikvah comes from the same Hebrew root as tikvah (hope). When using the mikvah, for whatever reason, we immerse ourselves in a pool of hope,” she said.

Although primary patrons for the mikvah are women, Hornsten said some men do come to commemorate the holidays as well as other occasions.

Rick Larson, and his wife, Mary Jane, each participated in the ritual when they converted to Judaism.

“I was ready to take on my Jewish identity, and the mikvah experience was very enlightening and spiritual,” he said.

Those doing the ritual as part of conversion are given a “mikvah bag” provided by Temple Israel’s Sisterhood and community donations. The bag contains a Kiddush cup, towels embroidered with the words “Mazel Tov,” a Tzedakah box, Shabbat candles and a cookbook.

Kari Provizer, director of the Family Life Center at Temple Israel, visited the mikvah with a group of women studying Kabbalah with Hornsten.

“It was a two-and-a-half-hour ceremony, very emotional,” she said. “Many of the women connected with their Judaism in ways they never thought they would.”

In her role as a social worker, Provizer recommends the mikvah experience after any kind of loss, such as death, divorce or miscarriage. She also encourages people to use the mikvah for good occasions, too, such as becoming a parent or grandparent, or celebrating a bar or bat mitzvah.

“It’s a way to shed the old and come into the new,” Provizer said.

More Modern Uses
Many women are choosing to include family and close friends in what used to be a private ritual.

Pam Salba of Farmington Hills and her daughter, Leslie Salba Garthwaite of Chicago, visited the mikvah prior to Garthwaite’s wedding several years ago.

“It was a beautiful experience,” Salba said. “We both did the mikvah; it was very moving and emotional. My sister was there, too.”

Linda Roberts of West Bloomfield visits the mikvah at Temple Israel every year before the High Holidays with her friend, Mary Jane Larson of Livonia.

“It really gets you ready for the holidays,” said Roberts, who also observed the ritual after recovering from ovarian cancer. “It helped me get better spiritually in addition to physically.”

Larson’s first visit to the mikvah was a requisite part of the process when she became a Jew by choice 12 years ago. Although she tried to prepare herself by reading extensively about the tradition, she found the actual experience to be different than she imagined.

“I was a blank slate,” she said. “Rabbi Marla talked me through it. I remember stepping into the water and looking around. It was very exciting. I passed a mother and daughter on my way in; their hair was wet and they had the most beautiful smiles.”

 By Ronelle Grier, Contributing Writer

Local Mikvahs

• Mikvah Israel, Oak Park

• Bais Chabad Community Mikvah, West Bloomfield

• Temple Israel Mikvah, West Bloomfield

• Mikvah Israel of Ann Arbor, Ann Arbor

• Lubavitch Mikvah, Flint

• Mikvah Mei Menachem Lansing, East Lansing

• Mikvah, Shaarey Zedek Synagogue, Windsor

• Congregation Etz Chaim Mikvah, Toledo

Madeleine Albright

Former U.S. Secretary of State Madeleine Albright recalls the first time she had an inkling of her Jewish heritage, around the same time she was being vetted for the office she would hold from 1997-2001.

Since she became a public figure in 1993 as U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations, Albright, a native of Prague, Czechoslovakia, began to receive letters from Czechs claiming to know her family, but none of the names, towns or years matched up — not until 1996, when she received a letter from a person who had known her family and remembered them as one of the “finest Jewish families in Prague.”

She was stunned.

“As I was being vetted, I was asked if there was anything else I wanted to disclose, and I said ‘I don’t know for sure, but I may have Jewish heritage,’” Albright recalled. “Of course, they told me that didn’t matter.”

Around the same time, in 1997, Washington Post reporter Michael Dobbs published a profile of Albright that revealed more than a dozen of her relatives, including her three grandparents, were killed as Jewish victims of the Holocaust.

Albright had been only 2 years old when her parents escaped to London from Czechoslovakia in March 1939, less than two weeks after the Nazi occupation. The family returned to Czechoslovakia in 1945, after its liberation from the Germans. Her parents were granted political asylum in the United States in 1948, after a communist coup in Czechoslovakia.

Albright, who was raised as a Roman Catholic, said her parents told her only that her relatives died “during the course of the war.”

According to the Post profile, historical records based on transportation lists captured from the Nazis at the end of World War II show that some of Albright’s relatives were killed in the gas chambers at Auschwitz. Others died of typhoid and malnutrition at a holding camp at Terezin, where Czech Jews were kept before being sent to Auschwitz. Better known by the German name Theresienstadt, it was a ghetto where tens of thousands of Jews from Czechoslovakia, Germany, Austria, the Netherlands and Denmark died.

“It was tragic to find out how many relatives had died,” Albright said. “I was struck with feelings of great sadness, curiosity, fascination and pride. My feeling was I needed to learn more.”

Her brother and sister went to the Czech Republic, including Terezin and Pinkas Synagogue in Prague, where the names of more than 77,000 Czech Jews who died in the Holocaust, including Albright’s grandparents, are inscribed.

Albright then set out on a multi-year tracing of her
family’s roots. She began the process with her memoir Madam Secretary (2003).  Three other books followed. “But still I had a longing to dig deeper,” Albright said.

She traveled to the Czech Republic and found her grandparents’ names on the walls of the Pinkas Synagogue. The more she learned and absorbed, “the more jumble of emotions I felt,”  she said, including “great tragedy and incredible sadness for those who suffered as well as great admiration for and inspiration from those who survived.”

Prague Winter, A Personal Story of Remembrance and War, 1937-1948 (Harper, 2012) is the culmination of Albright’s years of research. The personal memoir has many layers, including a historical look at the years 1937-1948 and the value of alliances, and the morality of decision-making and what happens when leaders are involved in wishful thinking.

She cites an infamous quote from British Prime Minister Neville Chamberlain, who, to appease Hitler, did nothing to prevent the Nazi takeover of Czechoslovakia:

“How horrible, fantastic, incredible it is that we should be digging trenches and trying on gasmasks here because of a quarrel in a faraway country between people of whom we know nothing.”

“We can’t have that kind of thinking ever again,” she said.

Lessons From History
In Prague Winter, Albright writes, “lessons from World War II have been learned at best imperfectly.”

“It’s essential to get the facts,” she said. “International policy has to be fact-based, and the long-term consequences of decisions need to be understood, especially by those who make them from a distance.”

She takes an example from history — the infamous Terezin ghetto, that, according to Nazi propaganda, was a “spa town” where German Jews could “retire” in safety.

“Terezin was a peculiar place, not known as a death camp,” Albright said. “Jews were lured there. Some went voluntarily, others were forced — but no one imagined the horrors.”

In 1944, the Red Cross sent inspection teams to Terezin. The Germans intensified deportations from the ghetto shortly before the visit to make it appear less crowded, and “beautified” the ghetto, planting gardens and painting houses. The Nazis staged social and cultural events for the visiting dignitaries.

“The visit persuaded the West that there were no horrors,” Albright said. Once the visit was over, the Germans resumed the deportations to Auschwitz, which did not end until October 1944.

“There’s a lesson there for today,” Albright said. “Although no two situations are alike, as international monitors go into Syria and Iran, they should not give credence to just what they see. They must dig deeper.”

Albright said she agrees with the international community’s attempts to isolate Syria’s Bashar Al Assad but is disappointed with the stance taken by Russia and China, which still back his regime.

As for Iran, she says she agrees with President Obama that it is unacceptable for Iran to have a nuclear bomb, and hopes for a peaceful solution that includes valid international inspections of all of Iran’s nuclear facilities.

When asked about the state of the Middle East today, Albright said that during her time as secretary of state, she knew then that it could not remain a static region.

“I firmly believe that people are ready for democracy, no matter where they are,” she said. “We are all the same. People want to make decisions about their lives and that escalates into wanting a say in their government.

“We knew as people became more educated and the middle class grew, that something was bound to happen. But no one could have predicted how or the role that social media would play.”

Albright added, “Like many Americans, I’m concerned for Israel’s security” and said she believes that Obama and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu have clarified the depth and strength of the two countries’ relationship.

“I believe what needs to happen is we must figure out how to move into legitimate talks about a two-state solution for Israel and the Palestinians,” she said, “and I remain convinced of America’s unwavering, unassailable commitment to the Jewish state, especially when we reflect on the reason for Israel’s existence in the first place.”

By Jackie Headapohl/Managing Editor

Memoir On a World Stage:Albright’s Prague Winter

In the hands of former Secretary of State Madeleine Albright, a family history takes on the spectrum of world history as events unfold in her memoir,  Prague Winter: A Personal Story of Remembrance and War, 1937-1948.

Drawing on her earliest memories, letters and written reflections from her parents, and brilliant research, she takes readers from the Czechoslovakia of her childhood — “a land of magic, marionettes, Franz Kafka and Good King Wenceslas”— through the tumultuous years of Nazi occupation, the rise of fascism and the onset of the Cold War.

Through Albright’s lens, we follow an intensely personal, yet global story. We see intimate portraits of the war years in London where her parents escaped after the Nazi invasion in 1939; we follow refugees to the ghetto of Terezin where her grandparents perished. Albright also sheds light on the story of millions of ordinary European citizens, driven from their homes and forced by their decisions, large and small, into new roles as leaders, freedom fighters, victims, killers.

Albright asks, “What separates us from the world we have and the kind of ethical universe [we like to envision]? What prompts one person to act boldly in a moment of crisis and a second to seek shelter in the crowd? Why do some people become stronger in the face of adversity, while others quickly lose heart? What separates the bully from the protector? Is it education, spiritual belief, our parents, our friends, the circumstances of our birth, traumatic events, or more likely some combination that spells the difference?”

Reprinted from MyJewishDetroit, working to build a stronger, healthier, greater Detroit. Follow the stories on Twitter @myJDetroit.

Federation Presents Albright
Join Federation’s Women’s Department for a conversation with former Secretary of State Madeleine Albright at 1:30 p.m. Sunday, May 6, at Congregation Adat Shalom in Farmington Hills. Her book, Prague Winter, will be available for purchase and signing. Open to individual donors of $18 or more to Federation’s 2012 Annual Campaign. Visit jewishdetroit.org or contact Marianne Bloomberg, bloomberg@jfmd.org or (248) 642-4611 for details.

Out-state Scouts learn about the Holocaust firsthand from survivors.

Arrowman Kevin Neff from Gaylord escorts Holocaust survivor Jack Weinberger of Oak Park into the capitol. (Mark Ewing)

The bus, accompanied by two cars, pulled into the Department of Military and Veterans Affairs’ National Guard Armory in Lansing about 9:30 p.m. April 18, after a three-hour ride from Traverse City. In these sparse surroundings, a life-changing 24 hours began for 25 Scouts and 18 adult leaders, all members of the Indian Drum Lodge of the Order of the Arrow.

These young men were chosen for a special task — providing the honor guard and escorting Metro Detroit Holocaust survivors into the rotunda of the state capitol for the annual Holocaust Commemoration Ceremony. None of the Scouts are Jewish. Few had even met Jewish people. Not one had ever met a Holocaust survivor.

For the last nine years, Metro Detroit Jewish Scouts have done the honors, but the numbers had been dwindling. A conversation with Susan Herman, director of the Lansing-based Michigan Jewish Conference, who plans the annual capitol event, and a number of Detroit Scout leaders led to choosing Scouts from a different venue, one that offered a unique challenge and an incredible opportunity.

The Arrowmen and their adult leaders at the Michigan Capitol (Kim Flees)

They decided that for this year’s ceremony, Scouts would be invited from rural out-state communities. The opportunity to introduce the survivors to a new group of witnesses, who, it was hoped, would return to their communities having turned the lessons of their history books into a life-changing experience, was a captivating thought. It succeeded beyond the more optimistic expectations.

With the encouragement of Lodge Adviser Vicki Riley, last August an initial presentation was made to the Youth Executive Committee of the Indian Drum Lodge of the Order of the Arrow (OA). OA is Scouting’s National Honor Society and members, elected by their Boy Scout peers, are known to be the most committed to service in the Scouting community. Indian Drum is the Lodge of the Scenic Trails Council in Traverse City. Scenic Trails represents Boy Scouts in 13 counties in Northwestern Michigan and runs a great program.

When the meeting adjourned, without having yet made a presentation to the entire Lodge, 16 Executive Committee members, all high school Scouts, had signed up to take the day off from school to go to Lansing to serve. Without even having made the Lodge presentation, the largest number of Scouts ever to have signed on for this event was in place.

Having decided to cap the spots at 25 youth because of space issues in the capitol rotunda, a presentation to the Lodge was made some months later. The cap of 25 Arrowmen was quickly reached. What was even more incredible was that 18 adult members of the Lodge had signed up to attend. And while adults would not have a role in the ceremony itself, they wished to be present to meet the survivors and witness the event.

Forty-three Scouts and adult leaders from 15 towns in Northwestern Michigan, many driving an hour or more to Traverse City to take the bus leaving from the Council office, headed to Lansing.

The Michigan Jewish Conference welcomed the group to Lansing, providing snacks and breakfast to the Scouts who had spent the night on cots at the armory. A surprise early morning visit by U.S. Army Gen. Mike Stone who met and spoke with the Scouts highlighted the start of the day.

Shoshana Weinberger of Oak Park, wife of survivor Jack Weinberger, and Scouts Josh Olsen of Traverse City and Kevin Neff of Gaylord enjoy lunch and conversation at MSU Hillel. (Robyn Berkowitz)

Then it was off to the capitol for a pre-ceremony tour hosted by Senior Deputy Director of Military and Veterans Affairs and former Traverse City State Sen. Jason Allen, who is an Eagle Scout and himself a member of the Indian Drum Lodge.

The tour provided an insider’s view of the Capitol and its workings. Complete with an introduction in the State Senate, a visit with Eagle Scout House Majority Leader James “Jase” Bolger and photos with Lt. Gov. Brian Calley, it was a unique look at the operation of the state government as well as the historic beauty of the Michigan Capitol building itself.

Meeting The Survivors
At 11 a.m., the bus with the Holocaust survivors arrived. The 25 Arrowmen eagerly awaited the opportunity to escort each and every one into the capitol. This is what this trip was all about.

Gently assisting them and introducing themselves, these young Scouts viewed this duty as their sacred mission this day. After escorting the survivors upstairs and into the rotunda area, the Scouts’ Honor Guard lined up to bring in the U.S. and state flags, lead the Pledge of Allegiance and join in the singing of “The Star-Spangled Banner.”

Rep. Vicki Barnett, D-Farmington Hills, led the program, which featured many great speakers, including the keynote address by author and survivor Miriam Winter of Jackson.

Herman had come up with the idea of having an essay contest for the Scouts. The topic was “What Are The Important Lessons of the Holocaust?” The winner would be introduced by Lt. Gov. Calley and read his essay at the ceremony. Stephen Pothoff, 17, from Copemish, a town in Manistee County with a population of 209, wrote the prize-winning essay, receiving enthusiastic applause and appreciation from the survivors and his fellow Arrowmen at the ceremony.

A candle-lighting ceremony takes place near the end of the ceremony and is always solemn as each survivor is introduced with his or her family history retold. As the name of each survivor is read, he or she stands to approach the podium to light a candle.  Here, the Scouts again served as escorts, walking each survivor up to and back from the front of the rotunda as his or her name was read.

As the ceremony concluded at close to 2 p.m., the group of rather hungry Scouts escorted the survivors downstairs to their bus, boarded their own bus and made the short trek across town to Michigan State University Hillel. It was in this casual and festive atmosphere, after such a serious and thoughtful day, that the survivors and Arrowmen enjoyed lunch together and indeed got to know one another. Every table had a mix of Scouts and survivors. And, at every table, the Scouts became personal acquaintances and witnesses to the stories of these incredible members of the Jewish community.

The past few days home have been a flurry of notes and an exchange of photos.  However, perhaps the most rewarding have been the comments that have come from Scouts and parents alike. Here is one that is representative of them all:

“My son, a Boy Scout and Order of the Arrow member, just returned from Lansing this evening where he took part in the Holocaust Service … I cannot think of any one activity — in or out of Scouting — that has had such an impact on my son. He was deeply moved by meeting the Holocaust survivors. And, even while it is a point in history that is beyond difficult to remember, to learn of, to hear about, he enjoyed himself on the trip at the same time.

“In fact, when I asked him his favorite part of the day, he said it was having lunch with a 95-year-old Holocaust survivor who really liked to talk, and he really enjoyed listening to her.”

For the 43 members of the Indian Drum Lodge of the Order of the Arrow, the words of fellow Arrowman Stephen Pothoff’s prize-winning essay have certainly taken on a new and more urgent meaning: “We must have learned by now how quickly a threat can become an enemy, and how quickly an enemy can become evil.”

By Allen Olender/Special to the Jewish News

By Aaron Scheinfield

Bankruptcy attorney by day. Community volunteer by night. For years, volunteering and giving back to the community have been like second nature to me. It’s in my blood.

Several years ago, I had the privilege of traveling to New Orleans with motivated members of our Jewish community to assist firsthand with the enduring devastation of Hurricane Katrina. Even several years after the disaster, relief was on its way. My peers and I got down on our hands and knees in the pouring rain and helped build a community center in the Lower Ninth Ward by painting murals on the walls, building a soccer field and assembling picnic tables.

Fortunately, many of the young adults in the Metropolitan Detroit area share the same sentiments as I do. A common desire to help others led to the formation of the Mitzvah Initiative, the brainchild of our current committee, YAD Community Events.

As the chairperson, the mission of our task force is simple: take advantage of existing events in the community to create leadership, volunteer and involvement opportunities for young adults. Programs may be ongoing or one-time experiences with agencies within and outside of the Jewish community.

Stuart Solomon, Jodi Beals, Matt Kaminsky, Hy Safran, Jaimee Wine and Aaron Scheinfield make friends with a young Detroiter at Greening of Detroit.

At our monthly meetings, the committee meets at the Federation building to brainstorm ideas brought to YAD in an effort to plan, vet, promote and/or recruit for various programs suggested by taskforce members.

Since starting the Mitzvah Initiative only two years ago, we have participated in a plethora of hands-on activities around the community, including playing bingo with Fleischman residents; engaging in urban gardening in Detroit; working with Greening of Detroit to plant trees in Detroit; organizing a toiletry drive with JVS to assist homeless people in Detroit; partnering with Focus:HOPE to assist with minor home repairs, lawn care and painting; supporting a drinks and discussion event with cancer survivor Jonny Imerman; participating in volunteer initiatives through JFS Fall Fix Up; promoting the popular Drinks, Drinks and Discussions series with Partners in Torah and Rabbi Leiby Burnham; and so much more.

Perhaps our biggest event yet is the upcoming Lag b’Omer Barbeque Blowout. As Community Events partners with Jewish Life, these two committees, along with our sponsor, Torah on Tap, will celebrate Lag b’Omer in style. On May 9 from 8-10:30 p.m., young adults ages 21 to 45 will gather at the Friendship Circle, 6892 W. Maple Road, West Bloomfield, to experience an event like no other.

For only $5, enjoy this catered event with beer, burgers, salad, soda, hot dogs, wine, cocktails, chips, treats and so much more. And, oh, did I mention bonfire and s’mores? Dietary laws observed. Register now online at www.jewishdetroit.org/YAD.

Co-chairs for this event are myself, Leah Bold, Rabbi Leiby Burnham, Brandon Pomish and Jodi Satovsky.

There is so much opportunity in our community and passion among our young adults. The Community Events taskforce has enthusiastic volunteers and is looking for additional young adults to keep the momentum going. To learn more and become an active part of the taskforce, or to get involved with any of our NEXTGen taskforces, contact Tara Forman at the Jewish Federation of Metropolitan Detroit at (248) 642-1645 or via email at forman@jfmd.org. We have simply scratched the surface and cannot wait to plan more events and continue to get the young adults in the community engaged and involved.

For me, giving back to the community has always been a top priority. When you truly give from within and don’t expect anything in return, the intrinsic benefits and rewards are immeasurable.

Why do people volunteer? Because one person can truly make a great difference. Giving your time, sharing your experience and working on behalf of others without being motivated by financial or material gain can mean the world of difference to those less fortunate.

Consider the following inspirational quotes: “If you want to lift yourself up, lift up someone else.” Or, just remember: “A pessimist, they say, sees a glass of water as being half empty; an optimist sees the same glass as half full. But, a giving person sees a glass of water and starts looking for someone who might be thirsty.”

We have a lot of work to do. And we’re only getting started.

Matt Firsten of West Bloomfield and Nicole Goodman of Orchard Lake coordinated the BBYO Bully screening.

Bully, a documentary by writer/director Lee Hirsch, poignantly depicts the physical and emotional torment endured by five children who were victimized by bullies in different cities across the country. Two of the five subjects committed suicide as a result of the bullying.

One of the most distressing aspects of Bully is the knowledge that these kids are but a microcosm of a nationwide epidemic.

The U.S. Department of Education estimates that more than 13 million children and teens are bullied each year. Because most of these perpetrators act in groups rather than alone, the number of bullies could be as high as 50 million.

According to the U. S. Department of Justice, a child is bullied every seven minutes. The National Association of School Psychologists reports that approximately 160,000 students stay home from school every day because of bullying.

Teens who are bullied also are more likely to commit suicide, which is the third leading cause of teenage deaths, according to the Centers for Disease Control.

Increased awareness, along with publicity from several bully-related suicides in the past few years, have prompted local teens and other community groups to band together and work to put a stop to the bullying.

Sexism In The Media
According to anti-sexist advocate, filmmaker and author Dr. Jackson Katz, there is a connection between bullying and other forms of violence and the sexist messages conveyed through popular culture and the media.

Boston-based Katz visited Metro Detroit on April 15-16 for a series of presentations sponsored by the Jewish Women’s Foundation and the Jewish Coalition Against Domestic Assault (JCADA), along with several other local organizations.

Dr. Jackson Katz speaks about standing up against bullies.

One of the events was a screening of the documentary Miss Representation, which showed the many ways women and girls are demeaned and objectified in films, television and advertising. Katz also facilitated a men-only power breakfast, a community lunch-and-learn and a program for teens from local religious and youth groups.

“Bullying is related to all of this,” he said. “Relationship abuse and sexual harassment are forms of bullying — taking advantage of another person who is perceived to be weaker.”

Katz emphasized that members of both sexes have a responsibility to combat sexism, bullying and domestic violence and urged males and females to work together as allies instead of viewing one another as enemies.

“His message was life changing and inspiring for all who heard it; it set the stage for our community to come together in the understanding that violence against women is everybody’s business,” said Ellen Yashinsky Chute, chief community outreach officer for Jewish Family Service.

Katz’s message resonated for West Bloomfield teen Vanessa Farkas, who attended his teen presentation. Farkas was a baby when her mother left an abusive marriage, fleeing the state with her and her two older siblings. Farkas said she was inspired to help spread awareness about domestic abuse by her mother, who has spoken to many groups and organizations about her ordeal.

“People don’t understand that these things happen, especially in our Jewish community,” Farkas said. “It’s really important for everyone to be aware; there can be signs of control and abuse that people don’t recognize.”

Katz showed the teens video clips from several Disney movies to illustrate how the films depict women as flirtatious beings whose main goal is to find the ideal man, preferably a prince or other powerful male figure.

He said that The Little Mermaid movie, which many considered more enlightened than earlier Disney films because of its plucky female protagonist, shows Ariel giving up her voice for the man she loves. Despite her spirited personality, she ultimately had to rely on the prince to rescue her from the evil Sea Witch, which allowed her to regain her voice.

Many of the teens were surprised and affected by this segment of the presentation. One eighth-grade girl said that it made her angry to think that, as a child, she had been unwittingly manipulated by the messages conveyed by these films.

“They did a good job with the Disney clips,” said Farkas. “Most of those things I never would have picked up on.”

No Innocent Bystanders
Many anti-bullying activists, including Katz, agree it’s important to focus on the bystanders, those who unintentionally condone bullying by choosing not to get involved.

BBYO youth attending the Bully screening: Lily Grier and Bri Dines, both of West Bloomfield, Sam Gringlas of Farmington Hills and Josh Morof, Heather Rosenbaum and Zander Chocron, all of West Bloomfield.

“Historically, there have been two categories: perpetrators and victims,” Katz said. “The ‘bystander approach’ brings everyone surrounding both groups into the conversation. Silence in the face of prejudice, bullying, abuse and other bad behavior is a form of consent.”

He added that the persecution of the Jews by the Nazis was partially caused by the “silence of good people.”

“Silent consent is almost as bad as given consent,” said Evan Grossman-Lempert, a West Bloomfield teen who attended Katz’s presentation.

“It’s important that teens get this information at an early age,” said Rabbi Marla Hornsten of Temple Israel, who helped coordinate the April 16 event that was attended by more than 250 teens.

Bully, The Movie
BBYO, the largest Jewish teen organization in the world, has taken a stand against bullying by partnering with Keshet, NFTY, Repair the World and other groups to bring the Bully documentary to audiences throughout the country.

More than 200 teens and parents watched the film at the Uptown Birmingham 8 on April 17. On the way into the theater, everyone was asked to sign an anti-bullying pledge card as part of a national BBYO campaign aimed at Jewish teens called Stand UP for Each Other: A Campaign for Respect and Inclusion. The movie was followed by a brief discussion, facilitated by BBYO teen coordinators Matt Firsten of West Bloomfield and Nicole Goodman of Orchard Lake. Audience members were asked what action they intended to take after seeing the film.

“I will not remain silent,” said Ryan Feldman of West Bloomfield.

Other teens voiced similar sentiments, vowing to help spread the word and stand up against bullying when they see it.

“I thought it was really intense,” said Eliana Ungar of West Bloomfield. “I was shocked to see how the people [in authority] did not react.”

Other local sponsors of the Bully screening included Defeat the Label, Adat Shalom Synagogue, Congregation Beth Ahm, Congregation Shir Tikvah, Jewish Experiences for Families, Jewish Family Services, Jewish Federation of Metropolitan Detroit, Jewish Women’s Foundation, Opening the Doors Program of Federation’s Alliance for Jewish Education and the Youth Federation of Temple Israel (Y.F.T.I.).

In his remarks to the group after the film, Eric Adelman, director of Michigan Region BBYO, talked about cyber bullying, something that was not depicted in the documentary, which took place mainly in rural areas. Adelman said that bullying in communities such as Metro Detroit was even more intense because of the prolific use of social networking sites via computers, smart phones and other mobile devices.

“Technology provides more opportunities for nonstop bullying,” he said.

Adelman urged teens to ask the adults in their lives and in the community to help them handle situations where bullying is occurring.

“Don’t let us off the hook,” he said.

The grim statistics and negative publicity also have caused lawmakers to take action to stop the torment. In December 2011, Gov. Rick Snyder signed House Bill 4163 into law, making Michigan the 48th state to pass anti-bullying legislation. During the signing ceremony, Snyder said that he was bullied throughout his childhood and teenage years for being a “nerd.” The new law also requires school districts to adopt anti-bullying policies or submit copies of their existing policies to the State Department of Education by June of this year.

Taking A Stand
Bassie Shemtov, director of Friendship Circle of Michigan, an organization that provides programs for children with special needs, has developed a curriculum called “Upstander,” geared toward teens who are observers rather than perpetrators.

“The idea is to be an ‘Upstander’ instead of a bystander,” said Shemtov. “Eighty percent of our kids are bystanders. They think [bullying] is not their responsibility. No. It is their responsibility. We need to teach our teens that they can and should stand up instead of standing by.”

During the 2011-12 school year, the monthly Upstander course was held at West Bloomfield High School, Andover High School and Walled Lake Central, Northern and Western high schools.

“For our children to achieve academically, they must feel safe,” said Kenneth Gutman, superintendent of Walled Lake Consolidated Schools. “We recognize the emotional needs of our students are a significant factor in their success in school and in life. As a result of the Friendship Circle Upstander curriculum, hundreds of our students have a new depth of knowledge that will guide them for years to come.”

Stand for Change
An international anti-bullying event, sponsored by Defeat the Label, is scheduled on May 4, when students in schools all over the world will stand up at noon Eastern Standard Time. To date, more than 600,000 students have registered to participate.

Defeat the Label, founded by West Bloomfield businessmen Jeff Sakwa and Kevin Goldman, is a nonprofit organization that promotes a bully-free society free of labels and stereotypes through awareness campaigns, community outreach and special events geared toward middle and high school students. Schools can register for the May 4 event at www.stand4change.org.

Empowering Teens And Parents
Judy Lipson, a West Bloomfield licensed professional counselor and educator, said teens can often combat bullying by developing self-confidence and a sense of empowerment. She has developed specific techniques to help students accomplish those goals.

“It’s interesting to see the transformation of a student, who comes in scared and shaking, once he learns to stand up straight, smile and speak with confidence,” she said.

Lipson also teaches students and parents how to stand up to bullies by confronting the aggressors or reporting the behavior to an adult.

“Some of these kids did not know that it’s OK to have a voice,” she said. “They need to be taught specific behaviors, and a lot of parents don’t know how to do that. It’s a combination of building confidence and rewriting old beliefs that most adults have had since childhood.”

By Ronelle Grier | Contributing Writer

The next step was to contact Ezer Mizion, an organization which helps the elderly all year around. Ezer Mizion’s programs serve a myriad of needs of the senior citizen. Perhaps a light bulb needs changing in his home and the fixture appears as high as the moon to the frail golden-ager. Perhaps he has recently been released from the hospital and has no close relatives to help him out with his daily needs. Or maybe he’s lonely and becoming a fixture at his window, watching life go by, never engaged in any social activities of his own. Or doctor visits—he’s not feeling well but has no way of traveling to the doctor. Or meals—bread and yogurt are fine for breakfast but how about a nutritious hot meal consisting of a protein and vegetables—all that good stuff— once a day?  Exercise? Intellectual stimulation? Basic screenings? Emotional support? Ezer Mizion is there for the senior citizen, providing for all his requirements, with expertise and professionalism, with love and caring, with respect and dignity.

And so Ofir turned to Ezer Mizion to coordinate the Passover Painting Project.  All the necessary equipment for the project – quality paint and brushes – was generously donated by the Amrusi store in Petach Tikvah

The volunteers worked industriously cleaning and painting a number of homes.  The pleasure and emotional satisfaction derived by the many hard-working volunteers was indescribable.

Moshe Israeli, director of Ezer Mizion’s Petach Tivkah branch: “I want to thank the students who rallied to this important cause. We were very impressed by the success of this impromptu project and deeply moved by the pleasure it brought to the recipient families. Next year, we look forward to expanding the project and bringing the sparkle of joy to even more seniors.”

For further info: www.ezermizion.org

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