Jewish American Heritage Month

Posted By admin on August 18, 2020

Against the backdrop of the coronavirus pandemic, antisemitic conspiracy theories have seemingly spread faster than the disease itself.Paired together with anti-Zionism and anti-Israelism, these theories have appeared in greater numbers on the web following the outbreak of the pandemic, often accusing Jews for its spread or simply disseminating related falsehoods.The European Commission and United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) have taken measures to counter this phenomenon, albeit ignoring its anti-Zionsint or anti-Israeli aspects, focusing only on antisemitism, according to a letter sent by Dr. Shimon Samuel, Director for International Relations in the Simon Wiesenthal Center, to UNESCO Director-General, Audrey Azoulay, and European Commission President, Ursula von der Leyen. The measures, including a series of infographics that help explaining how the coronavirus was the driving factor behind a recent wave of hate, racism and antisemitism have however insufficiently addressed the anti-Zionist or anti-Israeli aspects of the problem. "we believe that, in the case of antisemitism, the contributing factor of anti-Zionism/anti-Israelism is inadequately addressed," said in the letter sent by Dr. Samuel.The Simon Wiesenthal Center urged both organizations to take the necessary steps to address the issue and to adopt the International Holocaust Remberance Alliance definition of antisemitism which also recognizes falsehoods spread against Israel as antisemitism.Samuel further added that in the case of UNESCO, this move may even assist in consideration by the United States and Israel to return to the institution."

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European Commission and UNESCO battle against antisemitic theories online - The Jerusalem Post

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Posted By admin on August 18, 2020

Speaking in an interview with Mehr News Agency, a member of Parliaments National Security and Foreign Policy Commissionreacted to the UAE agreementwith the Zionist regime to normalize ties and added,As usual, the Arab countries have been blackmailedby the Zionists, however, UAE should know that it is the main loser of this agreement because it will have no impact on the development of this country.

Of course, the people of the Arab world must be considered separately from their governors; because many of them are among the freedom seekers in the region and even they have declared their opposition to this shameful agreement, Jalal Zadeh added.

He went on to say that as the Americans have always beenmakingevery effort to mendthe relations of the compromiser countries with the Zionist regime, therefore the UAE's agreement with the Zionist regime is the result of Americans efforts.

With this action, the UAE registered its name among the compromiser countries, he said, adding And Saudi Arabia is also the fourth side of the United States, the Zionist regime and the UAE, but for some reason, it does not want to make this issue public and announce that it has crossed the red lines, but everyone knows Saudi Arabia is also behind this.

RHM/4998818

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UAE major looser of tie normalization with Zionists :MP - Mehr News Agency - English Version

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Posted By admin on August 18, 2020

The Workers Union Coalition in Palestine confirmed in its statement today that the announcement of the full normalization of relations between the UAE and the Zionist entity is a new stab in the side of our people and its national cause and will pave the way for more aggressive war, Judaization and settlement of Palestinian lands. The Workers Union Coalition condemned the role of the UAE in opening the door to normalization for other Arab countries. And he stressed that the current stage calls for confronting and standing against all forms of normalization, and Irakawi urged all Arab countries to condemn this relationship. The head of the Workers' Trade Union Coalition in Palestine, Muhammad Araqawi, emphasized that the signing of bilateral agreements between the UAE and the Zionist entity in various fields, foremost of which is the establishment of reciprocal embassies, is considered further in promoting normalization with Israel. The Workers Union Coalition in Palestine called on all international federations to put an end to these suspicious relations that lead to facilitating the task of implementing the deal of the century 8/13/2020.

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WFTU - World Federation of Trade Unions published this content on 17 August 2020 and is solely responsible for the information contained therein. Distributed by Public, unedited and unaltered, on 17 August 2020 07:17:17 UTC

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Workers' Union Coalition in Palestine: The UAE and the Zionist entity sign a peace agreement, a new conspiracy on the Palestinian cause -...

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Posted By admin on August 18, 2020

Due to global coronavirus pandemic, this years CAMERA (Committee for Accuracy in Middle East Reporting and Analysis) student conference was held via Zoom, teaching students how to effectively combat anti-Israel and biased propaganda on college campuses and online. Unable to attend the typical five-day, in-person training session in Boston, more than 100 students from 66 universities in North America, the United Kingdom and Israel joined together virtually earlier this month, representing CAMERAs largest training to date.

The students participated in online sessions with experts in international law, in addition to media experts of English-, Spanish-, Arabic- and Hebrew-language news outlets. They heard from students who have fought anti-BDS movements within their campus legislative bodies and participated in discussions about Mizrahi Jews, strengthening Jewish-black solidarity in the context of Israel delegitimization, using online tools and social media to advocate for Israel and creating events on campus and online.

According to Aviva Rosenschein, CAMERAs international campus director, despite COVID-19 and the reality that most students will not experience what you may consider a normal academic year, we hope that the conference will instill a sense of community for the students.

At this years conference, Rosenschein told JNS of a special focus on one of the largest challenges students facean increase in the concepts of identity politics, safe spaces and intersectionality which, at their best, can empower students, especially minority groups, to express themselves and exhibit pride for who they are.

Andrea Levin, executive director of CAMERA, and Masha Gabriel, head of CAMERAs Spanish language department. Credit: Courtesy.

However, she maintained that at their worst, they have also led to the harassment and intimidation of Jewish and pro-Israel students because of their beliefs. On many campuses, Zionist students are forced to make a choice: either denounce Israel or face ostracism.

It is therefore vital to teach students to send a critical message that bullying and demonizationfrom any communitywill not be tolerated, said Rosenschein.

In one session at the online conference, director of the Institute for Black Solidarity with Israel (IBSI)Joshua Washington spoke at a session titled Zionism and the Fight Against Anti-Black Racism: Are the Two Compatible? It focused on intersectionality in the wake of the May 25 death of George Floyd at the hands of Minneapolis police, the resulting massive international protests related to the Black Lives Matter movement and the ensuing dialogue about BDS.

Institute for Black Solidarity with Israel (IBSI)Joshua Washington spoke at a session titled Zionism and the Fight Against Anti-Black Racism: Are the Two Compatible? Credit: Courtesy.

For decades, explained Washington, American Jews and the American black community have fought against discrimination and racism, which has continued as young Jews from across the country have pledged to support those in the black community in their struggle for equality. However, some activists and organizations, including the official BDS campaign, want to connect the fight against racism to the anti-Zionist cause, pushing many Jews into a corner.

As part of this dialogue, Washington told JNS, education is the key to strengthen solidarity. Invite black students to campus events that tackle the controversial issues Jews are facing, he told the students. Face them head on, and have the discussion and debates. IBSI also exists to assist with those conversations as well. This will build not only a strong allyship, but genuine friendships as well, he related.

Washington also suggested finding other ways of support outside of Black Lives Matter, pointing, for example, to the Woodson Center that helps blacks and faith-based organizations solve issues facing their communities.

CAMERA Fellow Sophie Sklar, a student at McGill University in Montreal, and incoming president of the Chabad on Campus chapter and the Religious Studies Undergraduate Society, told JNS that the fellowship has taught her how to be a strong ally for Israel who is supported and well-informed and armed with facts, to be open to dialogue and discussion and to properly combat those on my campus who spread misinformation.

On a campus such as mine, said the 20-year-old, sometimes advocating for Israel and challenging the dominant narratives can be an isolating experience. However, this conference has shared resources, information and other means of support that has demonstrated to me that I am never truly alone in my fight.

Since McGill will be online this fall, she said CAMERA has provided us with the resources to be able to continue our activism in an online format. From Zoom workshops to remote gatherings, this year will be a different one for Israel activists. Though the coronavirus has physically shut down my campus, I will still be writing as much as ever and fighting as much as ever for this cause I care so deeply about.

As a Mizrahi Jew, Sklar appreciated the discussions on communities that are often overlooked and overshadowed.

It was an amazing experience to see my identity and personal story reflected in one of the speakers and to see that my familys history is valued by CAMERA, she said. It was also an incredibly positive experience for me to learn more about Mizrahi history, which will allow me to better speak up for myself when I return to campus.

CAMERA Campus Managing Editor Zac Schildcrout. Credit: Courtesy.

Focus on the facts

Of the 100-plus students that took part in the conference, 62 were a part of the incoming CAMERA Fellow cohort that will be monitoring their campus media and anti-Israel events; attending further online trainings; publishing journalistic articles on relevant topics; and hosting events on their respective campuses once they go back in person.

CAMERA Fellow Ben Stone, a 21-year-old student at Duke University and its business school, told JNS that he has learned how to focus on the facts, and hone in on the inaccuracies propagated by SJP chapters and other supporters of BDS.

He also noted that he has become a better writer and more educated about the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.

During this period of time, he said, Ive seen a rampant increase of anti-Israel sentiments on social media, as well as a scapegoating of Jews by many people, including celebrities. I think that the distance that COVID has put between interpersonal interactions has given bigots a safe space for their hate speech and lies.

However, he emphasized, If CAMERA and other similar groups keep teaching us how to be proactive in a smart and educated way, then we will always come out on top. It isnt about being loud, but being right.

The post Off-campus, but in touch: Students learn tools from CAMERA conference to fight anti-Semitism appeared first on JNS.org.

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Off-campus, but in touch: Students learn tools from CAMERA conference to fight anti-Semitism - Cleveland Jewish News

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Posted By admin on August 18, 2020

We came to Kuwait, and the Americans showed us an awful, splayed piece of metal, he recalled. I had never seen anything so horrific. This was shrapnel from rockets being fired at us. I looked at that metal, thinking, That is searing through the sky at any moment! In Iraq, I prayed to fire my weapon, just so I could fight back. Thats how bad it got. When we were killing them, I actually felt happy about it.

Yeah, Rakowitz said, in a near-whisper.

With his voice wavering, Taylor described a bombardment on his base, and his growing disaffection with the military mission in Iraq. Somethings got to change! he said, suddenly. Which is why I have had a think, and I am going to give you something. He ran out, then returned with a small bag containing items that he wanted in the sculpture. These things haunt me, he said. I want to let go of them.

Rakowitz asked if he should open it later. You can open it now, Taylor said, wiping away tears. The apartment rattled as a train passed, and Rakowitz carefully excavated the bags contents: flags and other mementos, including a combat medal that Taylor had earned in Basra.

Sensing the importance of the medal, Rakowitz tried to dissuade him from parting with it. You mentioned that it is a kind of currency for you he began, but Taylor interrupted, saying, I want to spend it now! I dont want it anymore. A bit later, he added, Im in a boat, doing my best to paddle, but, you know, I can feel healing coming. Then he smiled uncertainly. In my own selfish way, I can leave myself by the sea in Margate.

The next day, Rakowitz took what Taylor had given him to Erith, along with other mementos that he had collected. He carried it all in a large rolling suitcase, which he dragged through the citys industrial landscape. Brick factories dating to the First World War stood alongside windowless buildings with metal siding. Near a depot for used clothes, the pavement looked like an exploded lost and found.

The White Wall Company occupies an old building with a thirty-foot ceiling. This was once a cannon factory, Rakowitz said. He had been working with the company, which specializes in art fabrication, since he was awarded the commission in Trafalgar Square; White Wall had built the lamassu for him, with engineers working out how to keep a large structure constructed out of date-syrup cans from blowing over once it was set atop a plinth.

We entered through a squeaky door. An employee looked at Rakowitzs luggage. Did you come straight from the airport? she asked.

No, no, Rakowitz said. Im saving on shipping! A group of people gathered, some with White Wall, some with Englands Creative Coast, a festival associated with Turner Contemporary gallery, which was co-sponsoring the installation. While surveying the polyurethane likeness of Taylora seven-piece fibreglass mold was being fitted around itRakowitz told the engineers that he did not want the concrete to look polished. He had visited Margate to scout the location, and, he said, I was very inspired by the chalk that is part of the cliffs in the geologythe calcite. When it went into the water, it was like sea glass. It would become smooth, but also these holes would be carved through it, and I just loved that. He was hoping for a textured, porous effect. Nodding, a project manager said, Bubbles would be good.

Everyone headed for a room holding items gathered from the veterans and from Margate locals who had participated in workshops for the project: a geode that a soldier picked up in Oman, a letter from Gaza. All the objects would be photographed before they were embedded in the sculpture; the photos would be exhibited, along with personal statements, at the Turner gallery. A Turner employee who had run the workshops walked Rakowitz through the stories: one local woman had offered a poppy to mark war traumas passed down to grandchildren. She went to a mine crater that saw the Battle of the Somme, and every anniversary people scatter these into the crater, she said.

This is just amazing, Rakowitz said, surveying the mementos. The provenance is what gives it weight. From his luggage, he produced more things people had given, and some mementos of his own: pearls from Umm Qasr and date seeds. In Bamyan, one of the stores had dates from Basra, he said. I kept those since 2012. He looked at them. I am piecing together an idea of Iraq that can only have existed through the stories and the culture that has been transmitted to me. Parting with the objects wasnt easy, but he felt that he, too, should sacrifice something. Im letting go, he said.

The Margate projectsituated outside the glare of the international art worldcame at a good time for Rakowitz. Since 2007, he had been making art about looted artifacts and cultural expropriation, offering a quiet critique of the art institutions that made the removal of Iraqi heritage possible. Then, in 2018, he became embroiled in one of the most overt acts of criticism of a museum in recent memory. Overnight, the glare became blinding.

Early that year, as curators working at the Whitney prepared for the Biennial, they had asked Rakowitz to screen The Ballad of Special Ops Cody, and to install Room G, from the Northwest Palace, in the lobby. But then news broke that the vice-chairman of the Whitneys board owned a company that manufactured tear gas being used on asylum seekers. Employees wrote a protest letter, and Rakowitz, in support, reached out to the curators. They were lovely, he told me. They invited him to respond to the issue in his work. Instead, he withdrew from the show, believing that it would remain private. Soon afterward, his withdrawal leaked, and he became a headline. The Whitney Biennial: 75 Artists Are In, and One Dissenter Steps Out, the Times reported. Later, other artists in the show addressed the issue in their work, and some threatened to withdraw. By summer, the board member had resigned.

For a time, Rakowitz told me, trips overseas were a welcome escape from the spotlight. But his involvement in museum criticism continued. Returning from Erith, we had dinner at the home of an Iraqi-born artist, Jananne Al-Ani. She owned one of Rakowitzs pieces, an Iraqi military helmet based on the Darth Vader design, cast in resin and embedded with toy soldiers. He put it on and mugged. But, as the wine flowed, he became sombre, noting that Return was under curatorial assault, amid another museum protest. The piece was in a group exhibition at PS1, which MOMA had acquired in 2008. The show, titled Theater of Operations: The Gulf Wars, 1991-2011, was designed to explore a country still mired in war. Al-Ani also had a piece in it, a video evoking a drones targeting of Iraqi soil: aerial photos of archeological mounds and farms, set to staticky bursts of military radio chatter.

The MOMA protests centered on a board member and trustee, Larry Fink, who had ties to a company that runs commercial prisons. Just before Theater of Operations opened, in November, Rakowitz flew to New York and met with Al-Ani and with Rijin Sahakian, an essayist who had contributed to the exhibitions catalogue. By then, one artist had withdrawn, and Rakowitz was uncertain what he should do. During the meeting, Sahakian mentioned that the chairman of MOMAs board, Leon Black, headed an investment firm with a stake in Constellis Holdings, which owned the latest incarnation of Blackwatera company whose mercenaries had fired into a crowd of Iraqi civilians in 2007, slaughtering seventeen people. Constellis was still active in Iraq, she noted, sharing a recruitment ad depicting men firing guns. The text asked, Ready for your next adventure?

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Michael Rakowitzs Art of Return - The New Yorker

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Posted By admin on August 18, 2020

A long summer of cultural scarcity was brought to a partial end on Friday when Governor Andrew Cuomo announced that museums would be able to reopen in New York on August 24albeit at 25% capacity and with timed ticketing in place.

The Phase 4 reopening of the Metropolitan Museum of Art, MoMA, and other cultural hubs after a five-month absence is undoubtedly exciting, but our current situation demands a certain level of advance preparation: To that end, weve compiled a guide to whenand howsome of New York Citys most beloved museums and cultural institutions will be opening their doors.

The Metropolitan Museum of Art

Reopening date: August 29

Reopening plan: 25% capacity, timed entrance registration, face coverings required, coat check temporarily closed

The Met Cloisters

Reopening date: September 12

Reopening plan: 25% capacity, timed entrance registration, face coverings required, coat check temporarily closed

The Whitney

Reopening date: September 3 for the general public, August 27 for members

Reopening plan: 25% capacity, timed entrance registration, temperature checks administered to visitors on arrival, social distancing enforced by museum guards

MoMA

Reopening date: August 27, with one month of free admission

Reopening plan: 25% capacity, timed entrance registration, face coverings required

The American Museum of Natural History

Reopening date: September 9 for the general public, September 2 for members

Reopening plan: 25% capacity, timed entrance registration, face coverings required, plexiglass barriers at ticket counters, hand-sanitizer stations throughout the building, cordoned-off interactive displays, limited elevator and restroom capacity

Museum of Jewish Heritage

Reopening date: September 9

Reopening plan: 25% capacity, timed entrance registration, face coverings required, limited hours (open three days per week, as opposed to its previous six)

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When, Where, and How? Your Guide to Museum Reopenings in New York City - Vogue

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Posted By admin on August 18, 2020

The Metropolitan Museum of Art and The American Museum of Natural History (Photos by Rob Kim/Getty Images)

New York City museums now have the green light to reopen starting Aug. 24.

Gov. Andrew Cuomos go-ahead comes roughly a month after the city entered Phase 4 of reopening from the pandemic lockdown in mid-July, according to the Wall Street Journal. Cuomo had postponed the reopening of museums, gyms, indoor dining and movie theaters, citing concerns about the safety of indoor activities.

The states overall infection rate has remained low in the past few weeks, giving officials confidence that museums can safely resume operations at limited capacity.

Museums must cap occupancy at 25 percent, issue timed tickets to ensure staggered entry and require visitors to wear face masks at all times, Cuomo said.

The Metropolitan Museum of Art is scheduled to reopen Aug. 29. Visitors ages 2 and older will be required to wear face coverings and maintain social distancing.

The American Museum of Natural History is set to reopen Sept. 2 for members and Sept. 9 for the general public, with similar requirements for visitors in place. The museum has reportedly updated ventilation systems and added plexiglass barriers to ticket counters.

The Museum of Jewish Heritage is scheduled to reopen Sept. 9 for three days a week, down from its previous schedule of six days a week. [WSJ] Akiko Matsuda

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Museums get green light to reopen in New York City - The Real Deal

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Posted By admin on August 18, 2020

Times Herald-Record

HOW TO SUBMIT AN EVENT

To submit events in the Whats Happening calendar for online and print, go to recordonline.com/entertainment and click on calendar. Then click on Promote Your Event. Please submit information two weeks before the event. Keep the listing length small as long listings will not be printed. Listings appear in print as space allows. For questions or help with submissions use the chat feature for online submissions and for all other questions and corrections emailcommunities@th-record.com.

Tuesday, Aug. 18

Healthy Orange Farmers Market:10 a.m.2 p.m., Aug. 18, green lot on Broadway, Newburgh, next to the DMV Building at 130 Broadway. Come get freshly picked fruits and vegetables, grown right in Orange County. The market features fresh vegetables, fruits, herbs, honey, soap, eggs, chicken, and delicious baked goods, as well as craft items. Farmers accept EBT/SNAP, WIC, Senior and Veteran Coupons,FreshConnectCoupons, and cash. EBT purchases receive extraFreshConnectCoupons. Masks are required for shopping at the market. 360-6691.

Zoom Friendly Visitor Volunteer Training:10 a.m. Aug. 18.Jewish Family Service of Orange County invites you to become a Friendly VisitorVolunteer in Orange County. This 90-minute training prepares potential volunteers to provide support to older adults inyour own communities.For about 3 hours a week or less, volunteers provide local transportation to essential appointments, grocery shopping and friendly visits. Volunteering is rewarding and flexible. Reservations are required for this event.To register or to learn more about volunteering,call or email Paula Blumenau at 341-1173 ext.305 orpblumenau@jfsorange.org. Background checks and Insurance while volunteeringareprovided.

Page Turner Adventures - ProjectDay Virtual Program:Noon-12:30 p.m. Aug. 18, Newburgh,Free Library, Newburgh. Tune in for crafts, games, experiments, recipes, all kinds of activities that change every week. 563-3616.Lkochik@rcls.org.

NYS Unclaimed Funds:6-7 p.m. Aug. 18,MamakatingLibrary, Wurtsboro, free. Learn about NYS Unclaimed Funds. Hear search tipsandinstruction on obtaining money that is owed to you from NewYorkState. To register for this free Zoom program, emailmamcirc@rcls.org. Led by Leah Solomon of the Office of the State Comptroller.888-8004.mamcirc@rcls.org.

AccomplisedNewburgh NASA Ambassador Teacher toSpeakbassadorBrings NASA to theClaassader:7:30-9:15 p.m. Aug. 18, Aleen Toback will talk about her role in having students gather and interpret research for NASA and other scientific organizations. The presentation will be made via Zoom and will be sponsored by theMid HudsonAstonomicalAssociation.Toback has been a life science teacher at the Heritage Middle School in Newburgh for 22 years. Sheis an Educational Ambassador for GoddardSpacefightCenter, aliasonfor the GoddardSpacefightCenter Office of Stem Management at the Goddard Institute for Space Studies in New York City, and a trainee for the Global Observations to Benefit Earth (GLOBE) program. The presentation will follow the regularly scheduled meeting of the MHAA which begins at 7:30. All are invited to both. To access the 8 PM talk or the meeting and talk go tomidhudsonastro.organd register "ATTEND" at their Meetup site.631-553-1144, 245-5483.

Wednesday, Aug. 19

Page Turner Adventures: Author and Illustrator Day Virtual Program:Noon-12:30 p.m. Aug. 19, Newburgh Free Library,Newburgh.Tune in to meet some amazing guest book creators! Read-alongs, book trivia, and activities are all part of the fun.563-3623.Sscoggan@rcls.org.

Virtual Out & About Book Club:8:30 p.m. Aug. 19, book pick, Real Lifeby Brandon Taylor. Just because we cant be Out & About doesnt mean we cant still have a great book club meeting! Digitalebooksand audiobooks are available through Libby or call the library for a hard copy. Register via theCornwall Public Librarysonline calendarat cornwallpubliclibrary.org.Zoom links will be emailed to registrants the day of the book.

Thursday, Aug. 20

Mystery Book Discussion:2 p.m. Aug. 20, book pick, Worthy Brown's Daughterby Philip Margolin. Join a Zoom meeting to discuss a mystery novel with fellow readers. Digitalebooksand audiobooks are available through Libby and hoopla.Register via the Cornwall Public Librarysonline calendarat cornwallpubliclibrary.org.Zoom links will be emailed to registrants the day of the book club.

Yoga for Kids Series Virtual Program:3-3:50 p.m. Aug. 20, Newburgh Free Library, Newburgh, free. Join a 6-week series of Yoga for kids, ages 7-10, presented by Ms. Susan from Rae of Light Studio. Learn to relax and refocus your attention as you head back to school. Registration foreachprogram session is required. Include an email address in registration for confirmation and program link. This series will be presented via Zoom or a combination of Zoom and in-person, conditions permitting. 563-3616,Lkochik@rcls.org.

Diane Lang presents Staying Positive During Trying Times Virtual Program:6:30 p.m. Aug. 20.With gloom and doom around us, it can be hard to find the positive. Isolation has many of us feeling sad and anxious. But it is possible to stay positive, feel hopeful and reduce stress/anxiety during these turbulent times. Diane is an acclaimed author and therapist. She is a noted speaker and positive living coach who has presented a number of programs at the Ethelbert B. Crawford Library. This virtual program is another program provided by the Ethelbert B. Crawford Public Library in Monticello. Registration is limited to 75 registrants. Please register online atebcpl.org, click on adult calendars and then click on August. You will find your program there. 794-4660.

Frederick Douglass speaks on Women's Suffrage:6:30-7:30 p.m. Aug. 20,MamakatingPublic Library, Wurtsboro, free. In recognition of the ratification of the 19th Amendment on August 18, 1920 giving women citizens of the U.S the right to vote -- actor Oliver King will present an oration given by Frederick Douglass to the International Council of Women in Washington, D.C. in April 1888. In the speech, Frederick Douglass acknowledges the tremendous work of Susan B. Anthony and Elizabeth Cady Stanton on behalf of women's rights. To register and to receive a Zoom login, emailmamcirc@rcls.orgor call 888-8004.

Ten Mile River Museum Talk "Uncovering Unconscious Bias":7-8:30 p.m. Aug. 20, Ten Mile River Museum,1481 County Rd. 26,Narrowsburg, free. You will learn and practice techniques designed to reduce bias and help you make better choices. Scouts can use lessons learned for the recently introduced Diversity & Inclusion Merit Badge. It will be conducted by Lorne Epstein, ODKM graduate student. He has twenty-four years as an HR professional. His book,Youre Hired! Interview Skills to Get the Jobhas been downloaded over a half-million times worldwide. Museum Chairman MichaelDrillingerwill moderate. A Q&A will occur at its conclusion. 201-716-9261.mitchell.slepian@gmail.com.

Friday, Aug. 21

Story BreakLive!:11 a.m. Aug. 21, every Fri. Think youre too old for a childrens book? The Cornwall Public Librarys Youth Services Team begs to disagree. Celebrate TGIF with a familiar library face and a good story. You can catch these live events on the LibrarysFacebookpage ,through the summer. Cornwallpubliclibrary.org.

Putt Fore Paws:11 a.m. Aug. 21, Apple Green Golf Course, 161 South St., Highland.This year's event will include live mobile scoring and leaderboard, a raffle, grab-&-go lunch provided by Apple Greens Catering, and trophies for top dog among men's single and women's single, and best two-some and best four-some. Social distancing measures will be used. Tickets available atbrownpapertickets.com/event/4681887.Call the shelter front desk if you'd like to purchase raffle tickets without purchasing tickets to attend.

Teen Yoga Nidra Virtual Program:3-4:15 p.m. Aug. 21, Newburgh Free Library, Newburgh, free. Teens age 11-17 are invited to join in a gentle yoga class with guided meditation. Make time for yourself, de-stress from school, and unwind before your weekend. Presented by Ms. Susan from Rae of Light Studios. Program is offered once a month through December. Registration for each program session is required. Include an email address in registration for confirmation and program link. This series will be presented via Zoom or a combination of Zoom and in-person, conditions permitting. Check back for details.563-3616.Lkochik@rcls.org.

SparrowbushEngine Companyannual ChickenBBQ Take Out:4-7 p.m. Aug. 22, donation$12, includes chicken, corn on the cob, baked potato and desert, ticket available from any SECO member or call 856-5047 to reserve your tickets.

Saturday, Aug. 22

Spartan Race Tri-State NY Sprint 2020: 7:30 a.m.-3 p.m. Aug. 22, Anthony Wayne Recreation Area, Palisades Interstate Parkway Exit 17, Bear Mountain, $79. Spartan Sprint - 3 mi / 5 km, 20 Obstacles 3 miles that will change your life. The Sprint is the perfect distance, whether you're starting your Spartan journey, or you're returning to crush your last time. The Spartan Sprint is the starting line of champions.US@Spartan.com.

Lois & Matt Present Music Tells a Story Virtual Program:1-1:45 p.m. Aug. 22, Newburgh Free Library, Newburgh. Enjoy a music education program for children and caregivers exploring music and imagination, created by Lois Hicks-Wozniak and Matthew Wozniak. Celebrate the summer of Imagine Your Story with music and fun in this program created for the Newburgh Free Library! Lois Hicks-Wozniak, alto saxophone,ukelele.Matthew Wozniak, bass trombone. 563-3616.Lkochik@rcls.org.

Sunday, Aug. 23

The Suffragists- Fight for the Vote in Sullivan County:2-4 p.m. Aug. 23, Time and the Valleys Museum, 332 Main St.,Grahamsville. Women won the right to vote after decades of struggle and against strong opposition from men - and some women - who feared that government would be placed "under petticoat rule." Ultimately, it was effective leadership and the development of what became known as "the winning plan" that turned the tide. Sullivan County Historian John Conway examines their strategies, the impact of World War I on the movement, and some prominent local leaders, including Elizabeth Worth Muller. 985-7700,info@timeandthevalleysmuseum.org.

Monday, Aug. 24

Introduction to Alzheimer's Virtual Program:3-4 p.m. Aug. 24, Newburgh Free Library, Newburgh. This presentation from the Alzheimer's Association Hudson Valley Chapter touches on the impact of Alzheimer's, risk factors and warning signs, resources and how you can join the fight against the disease. This presentation will be broadcast live on the Librarys Facebook page. 563-3619.Cmorgan@rcls.org.

Tuesday, Aug. 25

Healthy Orange Farmers Market:10 a.m.2 p.m., Aug. 25, green lot on Broadway, Newburgh, next to the DMV Building at 130 Broadway. Come get freshly picked fruits and vegetables, grown right in Orange County. The market features fresh vegetables, fruits, herbs, honey, soap, eggs, chicken, and delicious baked goods, as well as craft items. Farmers accept EBT/SNAP, WIC, Senior and Veteran Coupons,FreshConnectCoupons, and cash. EBT purchases receive extraFreshConnectCoupons. Masks are required for shopping at the market. 360-6691.

Tuesday at Two Book Discussion:2-3 p.m. Aug. 25, AlgonquinPark, Townof Newburgh.Meet atAlgonquin Park for a discussion from 100 Years of the Best American Short Stories available from Hoopla. The title of the short story everyone will read is Katherine Anne Porter'sTheCracked Looking-Glass. Everyone should read onemore shortstory in the collection of their own choosing. Rain date, if necessary, will be announced at a later date. For a copy of the book at Hoopla go tohoopladigital.com/title/13391448.563-3629.Psussmann@rcls.org.

Life as a Blue Man:6:30 p.m. Aug. 26, join The Cornwall Library for a discussion with local Cornwall library patron, Mark Frankel, a Blue Man in the internationally renowned performance piece Blue Man Group. This is a presentation on Zoom and registration is required via the librarysonline calendarat cornwallpubliclibrary.org. Zoom links will be emailed to registrants the day of the program.534-8282.

Thursday, Aug. 27

Yoga for Kids Series Virtual Program:3-3:50 p.m. Aug. 27, Newburgh Free Library, Newburgh, free. Join a 6-week series of Yoga for kids, ages 7-10, presented by Ms. Susan from Rae of Light Studio. Learn to relax and refocus your attention as you head back to school. Registration for each program session is required. Include an email address in registration for confirmation and program link. This series will be presented via Zoom or a combination of Zoom and in-person, conditions permitting. 563-3616,Lkochik@rcls.org.

Virtual Escape Room:5:30 p.m. Aug. 27,for Grades 6-12. Limited space registervia the librarysonline calendarat cornwallpubliclibrary.org, starting a week before the event. Zoom links will be emailed the day of the event. 534-8282.

Virtual Book Chat & Chocolate:6:30 p.m. Aug. 27, book pick, Queen Beeby Dorothea Benton Frank. Join the Hudson Valleys sweetest book group in a virtual Zoom meeting. Books and audios available on Hoopla.com. Register via the librarysonline calendarat cornwallpubliclibrary.org. Zoom links will be sent out to registrants on the day of the book club. 534-8282.

Bonnie Lewis presents Tai Chi for Arthritis Part 2 Virtual Program:6:30 p.m. Aug. 27. Bonnie J. Lewis, RN and Certified Instructor, Cornell Cooperative Extension of Sullivan County will present the second part of her benefits of TaiChi forarthritis. The first part was very well received and Bonnie is back to explain in more depth how Tai Chican increase strength,posture, relaxation, prevent falls and reduce stress. This virtual program is provided by Ethelbert B. Crawford Public Library in Monticello. Registration is limited to 75 registrants. Please register online atebcpl.org, click on adult calendars and then click on August. 794-4660.

Friday, Aug. 28

Story BreakLive!:11 a.m. Aug. 28, every Fri.This is your last chance to celebrate TGIF with a familiar library face and a good story. You can catch these live events on the Cornwall Public LibraryFacebookpage. Tune in and tell your friends!Cornwallpubliclibrary.org.

Saturday, Aug. 29

CragsmoorFree LibraryGyrotonicClass:9 a.m. Aug. 29,CragsmoorFree Library, 355CragsmoorRd., outdoor (weather permitting)Gyrotonicclass, limited to 6 participants, $15 per person. RSVP 647-4611 or emailnancy@cragsmoorfreelibrary.info.

Tuesday, Sept. 1

Healthy Orange Farmers Market:10 a.m.2 p.m., Sept. 1, green lot on Broadway, Newburgh, next to the DMV Building at 130 Broadway. Come get freshly picked fruits and vegetables, grown right in Orange County. The market features fresh vegetables, fruits, herbs, honey, soap, eggs, chicken, and delicious baked goods, as well as craft items. Farmers accept EBT/SNAP, WIC, Senior and Veteran Coupons,FreshConnectCoupons, and cash. EBT purchases receive extraFreshConnectCoupons. Masks are required for shopping at the market. 360-6691.

Sunday, Sept. 6

CANCELED -Onion Festival:2-6 p.m. Sept. 6, PLAV Pavilion, 16 Legion Rd., Pine Island, tickets $20, JimmySturr& His Orchestra, onion eating contest sponsored by the Pine Island Chamber plus food and fun, special tribute to first responders, healthcare and medicalpersonnel .Classic cars are welcome to attend and display their vehicles and will be admitted to festival free of charge.

Friday, Sept. 11

CANCELED - The Candlelight Remembrance Ceremony:Was to be held Sept. 11, Veterans Memorial Park, Matamoras, Pa.

Saturday, Sept. 12

6thannual Fiesta Latina:10 a.m.-6 p.m. Sept. 12, Museum Village, 1010 Route 17M, Monroe,free, donations appreciated,celebrating Family, Faith and Country, vendors focused on culture, family activities, food, live musicincluding Julian Vasquez. All proceeds support Museum Village.

Practice Sustainable Living:9 a.m.-4 p.m. Sept. 12, Manza Family Farm, 4 Hathorn Road, Warwick. Orange Environment, Inc. is sponsoring two workshops. During the morning session from 9 a.m.-noon, the Essentials of Natural Building instructor, Jamie Manza, will guide you in how to use natural materials like clay paints, cob, straw, and stone in natural building for applications around your home (fee is $45). The afternoon session on Rainwater Catchment runs from 1:30-4 p.m. and will be led by Frank Dragone. A 55-gallon drum will be provided to each participant so you can build your own water collection system (fee is $65). CDC Guidelines will be followed and total participants will be limited to 15 to provide for safe social distancing of 6-feet apart and masks will be required. Please bring your own masks, snacks, drinks, and/or lunch (if you are staying for both sessions). Visitorangeenvironment.comto print out a registration form and contact Peter Lai at 313-4246 or emailpeterl@frontiernet.netfor more info. Then mail your check, made out to Orange Environment, Inc., to Orange Environment Inc., P.O. Box 25, Goshen, NY 10924. *If attending both sessions or are an Orange Environment, Inc. member, a $10 discount will apply. 313-4246.peterl@frontiernet.net.

Tuesday, Sept. 15

Legal and Financial Planning for Alzheimers Disease Virtual Program:6-7 p.m. Sept. 15,if you or someone you know is affected by Alzheimers disease or dementia, the time for legal and financial planning is now. Join in on a free virtual program to learn about important legal and financial issues you may face and how to put plans in place featuring Martin Hersh, Esq. To register visitsullivancce.org, emailsullivan@cornell.edu, or call 292-6180.

Saturday, Sept. 19

Chicken B.B. Q.:Sept. 19, Ulster Heights Rod and Gun Club, Sherman Rd., Ellenville. Take outs only. Pre-pay $12. For Reservations, call 647-5190.

Sunday, Sept. 20

Music for relaxation Virtual Concert:3 p.m. Sept. 20, featuring Frank V. Schwartz, pianist, viewable on Town of Lumberland.org and Town of Lumberland Facebook. 856-6732. Presentedby Townof Lumberland Cultural Series.

Saturday, Sept. 26

ContactlessDrive-thru Chicken BBQFundraiser:4-6:30 p.m., Time and the Valleys Museum parking lot, 332 Main St., Route 55,Grahamsville,The BBQ includes, half BBQ chicken, baked potato, coleslaw, baked beans, cornbread, brownie and ice cream. Tickets are $12 per meal and are availableattimeandthevalleysmuseum.org/product/chicken-takeout-bbq-tickets/, by calling 985-7700, by sending a check to,Time and the Valleys Museum, P.O. Box 254,GrahamsvilleNY 12740, or emailing info@timeandthevalleysmuseum.org.

Sunday, Oct. 4

Doggie Dash 2020:11:30 a.m.-3 p.m. Oct. 4, HITS-on-the-Hudson, 454 Washington Ave., Saugerties.The 3rd annual Doggie Dash is the only 5k fun run/3k walk where you can bring your dog,in the process of designing this as a 2020 virtual event.Registration is $25 and is accepted viaraceentry.com.VisitUCSPCA.orgor contact the shelter for more information.All proceeds from the race will benefit the Ulster County SPCA.

Thursday, Oct. 15

CANCELED -Holocaust Remembrance Day Program:7-9 p.m. Oct. 15, Temple Sinai, 75 Highland Ave., Middletown. Featured speaker is Dr. RonaldIsraelskiwill tell the story of his parents who were survivors of the concentration camps. There will be candle lighting in memory of those who did not survive. 343-1861.

Saturday, Oct. 24

The Warwick Valley Quilters Guild Stars of the Valley Quilt Show:Oct. 24-25, TheSanfordvilleElementary School, 144SanfordvilleRd., Warwick. Local quilters from N.Y., N.J., Pa., and Conn., will show more than 150 quilts, and wall hangings. Speakers areTimnaTarr and Lisa Shepard Stewart. Vendors will offer machines, furniture, fabrics, and sewing accessories in addition to raffle prizes.pattiewhelan@yahoo.com. Warwickvalleyqg.org.

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What's happening - Times Herald-Record

Category: Jewish American Heritage Month | Comments Off on What’s happening – Times Herald-Record
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Posted By admin on August 18, 2020

Throughout his political career, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has often reversed his right-wing course, opting to present himself as a promoter of peace. This about-face has always followed a dip in polling numbers and appeared less motivated by ideology and more by expediency.

Before the assassination of Prime Minister Yitzhak Rabin, Netanyahu was an active participant in the right-wing campaign to delegitimize the commander-turned-politician who had signed the Oslo Accords.

He even infamously stood on a balcony overlooking Jerusalem's Zion Square as anti-Rabin demonstrators held aloft posters depicting the prime minister in Nazi uniform.

Benjamin Netanyahu attends a mock funeral for the 'death of Zionism' in the run-up to the assassination of Yitzhak Rabin

(Photo: Yedioth Ahronoth archive)

Netanyahu also marched in a mock funeral carrying a coffin emblazoned with the words "Rabin is killing Zionism."

But after Rabin's assassination by a Jewish right-wing extremist, polling predicted Netanyahu was about to massively lose the looming election to Shimon Peres, the new leader of the peace camp, and was on his way to political oblivion.

"It was time for change," his campaigners said as they came up with a new slogan. Soon billboards across the country bore the message "Netanyahu, making peace with security" - accompanied by a photo of a white dove flapping its wings.

ironically, Eyal Arad, who managed the Netanyahu campaign at the time, recalls that the poor bird was tethered to wire and was flapping its wings frantically as it tried to escape. But the wire was edited out of the photo and the campaign message disseminated.

Netanyahu announced he was committed to the peace accords signed by Rabin before his murder and the newborn man of peace won the vote.

Whether or not he intended to keep his pre-election promise, seven months into his first term as prime minister in 1996, Palestinian riots broke out over Israel's opening of the controversial Western Wall Tunnels, dug underneath the Muslim Quarter of the Old City of Jerusalem.

Palestinian rioters protesting the opening of the Western Wall Tunnels in the Old City of Jerusalem in 1996

(Photo: Yedioth Ahronoth)

In all, 17 Israeli soldiers and 100 Palestinians were killed in the ensuing violence, and Netanyahu's polling numbers dropped.

This, along with American pressure, led him to fulfill his commitments and carry out the second stage of the Oslo Accords handing the Palestinian Authority control over the West Bank city of Hebron.

In 1998, Netanyahu, Palestinian leader Yasser Arafat and U.S. President Bill Clinton signed the Wye River Memorandum to resume the implementation of the 1995 Interim Agreement on the West Bank and the Gaza Strip. Once again polls showed the agreement had majority support among Israelis.

At that time, Israel's prime minister was elected by a direct vote and Netanyahu found himself having to placate his right-wing coalition partners and ensure his re-election in the race against the former IDF chief and new Labor leader Ehud Barak.

But the right-wing took to the streets over the peace deal and the beleaguered prime minister announced he will not be honoring the Wye Memorandum.

It was too late and after four members of his coalition refused to back him, the government fell and Barak was elected.

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu speaking at a debate ahead of the 1999 prime ministerial elections

(Photo: Screen shot)

Netanyahu then completed his swing back to the right. During a visit to a bereaved family in the West Bank settlement of Ofra, who had lost two members in a terror attack, Netanyahu said he had not intended to see the Oslo Accords through.

"When I was asked before the elections if I would keep Israel's commitments to the accords, I said yes but only if there were reciprocity from the Palestinians and with fewer pullbacks of Israeli forces," he told the grieving family.

"I would have presented my own interpretation of the agreement so that there would be no withdrawal towards the pre-1967 Six-Day War borders."

U.S. President Barack Obama speaking in Cairo in 2009

(Photo: Screenshot)

When he returned to power in 2009, Barak Obama was in the White House. During his 2009 visit to Cairo, the American president spoke of the need to reach a peace deal between Israel and the Palestinians based on a two-state solution.

Public opinion polls showed great support among Israelis for Obama's plan and so Netanyahu hastily made another 180-degree turn.

He gave a historic speech at Bar-Ilan University in which he announced, "We would be prepared in a future peace agreement to see the establishment of a demilitarized Palestinian state alongside Israel."

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu delivering 2009 speech at Bar-Ilan University

(Photo: Michael Kramer)

In January 2020, U.S. President Donald Trump announced his Mideast peace plan to end the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. It came weeks before a general election in Israel and as Netanyahu's standing in the polls showed a decline that would potentially rob him of a coalition willing to grant him immunity from prosecution for bribery, fraud, and breach of trust.

The crux of the U.S. deal was a green light given by the Trump administration for Israeli annexation of the parts of the West Bank.

"This is a historic day for the State of Israel and one of the most important days in my life," Netanyahu said from the White House, where he traveled to join the president for the announcement of the agreement.

"As always, I will not allow anything to stand in the way of my commitment to work for you the people, for the security and the future of the State of Israel," he said.

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu watches as U.S. President Donald Trump unveils his Mideast peace plan at the White House, Jan. 28, 2020

(Photo: Getty Images)

But in his speech last week, another historic and important occasion, the prime minister announced he would be suspending the all-important annexation in favor of normalized relations with the UAE.

This came after polling numbers once again showed Netanyahu's support was in decline because of his management of the coronavirus pandemic, so a new dramatic U-turn had to be made.

Netanyahu also once again agreed to the notion of two states living side by side.

"This is a historic moment," he announced. "A breakthrough on the road to peace across the Middle East."

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When the polls are down, Netanyahu turns to peace - Ynetnews

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Posted By admin on August 18, 2020

Former Baron Hirsch Synagogue, once the largest synagogue in North America. Now the Gethsemane Garden Institutional Church of God in Christ. Photo by Eric Allix Rogers via Flickr CC

BESA Center Perspectives Paper No. 1,692, August 14, 2020

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY: The early Zionists had plenty of will but few means with which to achieve their goals, yet they changed the course of Jewish history.Israel today possesses the means to take the opportunity presented by President Trumps vision, but does it have the will?

Isaac Bashevis Singer was a Nobel-winning writer of short stories. In The Colony, one of his most poignant tales, he recounts the experience (probably autobiographical) of a Yiddish writer who arrives at one of the Jewish agricultural villages in Argentina financed by the fabulously wealthy Baron Hirsch to give a lectureonly to find that there are few Jews left to hear it.

The story was set in the early 1950s, only a few decades after the colony had been established along with other villages Hirsch financed in Argentina, the US, and Canada in one of the greatest individual philanthropic projects ever undertaken. In the late 19th century, Hirsch contributed a sum equivalent to todays $700 million to finance them.

None of the other villages fared any better, and it was left to historians to tell of their demise. On the jacket of a book published in 1995 about the most successful Hirsch villages created in the US, we are told, [M]ost of the synagogues are gone; a temple has been converted into a Baptist church. There is little indication to passersby that southern New Jerseys Salem and Cumberland counties once contained active Jewish colonies.

As Hirsch was concentrating on solving the plight of Russian and Polish Jews in the Americas, Baron Edmond Rothschild, the only Jew who could rival Hirsch in wealth, made common cause with the early Zionist pioneers in creating Petach Tikva, Rishon Letzion, Rehovot, and other villages in the Land of Israel at one quarter the costs Hirsch incurred on his projects.

A hundred years on, the difference is glaring. Driving on the New Jersey Turnpike one sees no sign of Jewish settlement, but driving onIsraels highways one certainly does. Rishon Letzionand Petah Tikva are each 250,000 people strong, over three times the number of all the Jews in Argentina todaythe country Baron Hirsch regarded as the promised land (along with the US and Canada). Rehovot has a population of over 140,000. There are also the vibrant and still growing Rothschild-supported moshavot of Zichron Yaakov and Binyamina.

If theres any significance to Baron Hirschs effort, it lay in his willingness to team up with Rothschild in the last years of his life to support Land of Israel villages as well.

Juxtaposing these two barons reveals a basic historical truth: The return to Zion and Jewish settlement in the biblical Land of Israel are far and away the most successful currents in modern Jewish history. This is certainly true when they are compared to competing ideological projects like the Bund, German Jewish assimilation, and Jewish involvement and support for Leninism and Stalinism, which ended either in the concentration camp or the gulag.

It is doubtful that President Trump knows about the two Jewish barons and the fates of their projects, but Israelis should recognize the historic opportunity his vision presents.

While Baron Rothschild financed the seeds of settlement, it was sovereigntythe creation of the State of Israelthat enabled the villages he underwrote to become the vibrant urban centers they are today.

More than seeds have been planted in Ariel in the central West Bank, Maaleh Adumim and Givat Zeev in the Jerusalem area, Efrat and other vibrant communities and educational institutions in Gush Etzion, and of course the settlements in the strategically placed Jordanian River valley and the southern Hebron hills.

But it requires a decision to extend Israeli sovereignty over these areas to ensure that they grow into the likes of Rishon LeTzion, Petach Tikva, and Rehovot.

The father of it all, Theodore Herzl (who had a complicated relationship with both barons), famously said, If you will it, it is no dream.

For our purposes, the English expression Where theres a will theres a way is more apt.

Compared to the almost insurmountable barriers the Zionist movement faced a hundred years ago in creating rural and urban localities, the citizens of a strong Israeli state know there is a way over the many costs such a decision will entail. The question is: Do they have the will their Zionist predecessors possessed to change the course of Jewish history?

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Prof. Hillel Frisch is a professor of political studies and Middle East studies at Bar-Ilan University and a senior research associate at the Begin-Sadat Center for Strategic Studies.

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Baron Rothschild, Baron Hirsch, and Extending Sovereignty in the Jordan Valley - besacenter.org

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