0603

1March 2006 n Adar 5766 n Volume 3, Issue 3

In this Issue:Purim Gallery of PicturesAncient ModiinUnderstandingYour Child

March 2006 Adar 5766 Volume 3, Issue 3

To Advertise n 052-6404-414 n 052-3868-768 n [email protected] n www.modiinfo.com2 3

March 2006 n Adar 5766 n Volume 3, Issue 3

U.S./ISRAEL TAX RETURNS

ALAN R. DEUTSCH, CPA (U.S.)MBA, APC, and Associates

MA’AD BUSINESS SERVICES, LTD.

U.S./ISRAEL TAX RETURNSTAX REFORM PLANNING

AND INVESTMENT CONSULTING

$1,000 FREEper child via U.S. child credit

Social Security and investment planning,IRS Resolution of disputes, tax newsletter.

02-999-2104 09-746-062303-527-3254 052-274-9999e-mail: [email protected]

Remember, it’s never too lateto file prior years’ tax returns!

New at Ristretto• extensive English menu

• heated outdoor seating

• business lunch Sunday-Thursday 12:00-17:00including main course, appetizer and beveragefor 36 NIS

• new dish – fish and chips for 49 NIS

• complete breakfast for 35 NISSunday-Friday until 12:00

• new hot drinks for cold winter days

R e h o v H a t i v a t G o l a n i 9S o l o m o n C e n t e r, E n t r y L e v e l0 8 - 9 2 6 8 1 0 1

Kosher under the Rabbanut ModiinOpen every day 9:00-24:00

Friday until 15:00 and Motzai Shabbat



A Modiin Purim TraditionMegilla Readingfor Women by Women

Purim is a festive day in Modiin. The city is filled with the sweet sounds of song and laughter. The streets are abuzz with the excitement of delivering mishloach manot and matanot la’evyonim. It is a day of community celebration!

The women of Modiin have established a holiday tradition that brings the story of the megilla to life. On the 14th of Adar, the women’s megilla reading will take place for the seventh consecutive year here in our city. Women’s readings are a halachikly recognized and encouraged way of fulfilling this special mitzvah. They are supported by religious leaders such as Rabbi Aharon Lichtenstein, Rabbi Riskin, and Rabbi Brovender amongst others in orthodox communities both here in Israel and abroad.

Esther is the heroine of the Purim story. She was primarily responsible for saving the Jewish nation from spiritual and physical destruction at a pivotal point in our history. Strong, brave and confident in the power of the Almighty, she continues to be a positive role model for Jewish women throughout the generations. According to tradition, Esther herself is credited with having written the Purim megilla. For many women, hearing the words of the Purim story

Continued on page 16

Dear Editor,Thank you for sending us the February 2006 (Volume

3, Issue 2) ModiInfo magazine containing the articles on radon. We were impressed by the amount of scientific information, their lengths, fairness, the accurate style and balanced attitude toward a sensitive subject.

In all advanced countries where the radon level has been regulated, the rather high “health risk” attributed to radon inhalation is being exploited by radon testing companies to pump up their business. They are using the free press, in which there is no scientific censorship to frighten and then convince the population to order tests and buy mitigation measures. For comparison, a typical article, similar to many published during the last years, is that from Yediot HaAchronot (June 24, 2005) “Sleeping with the Enemy”, which has produced, as expected, confusion and panic.

On the other side, one should not disregard this subject. One should understand it correctly and make tests and repairs, if necessary. There is no use to test radon on the sixth floor, but it is necessary to test it in a living room at ground level. It is therefore important to offer the readers accurate information. In fact, your magazine is offering your community a lot of useful information in a very attractive style. We therefore congratulate you for the articles and for the magazine.

With best regards,Victor Steiner, PhD, Dir. Ionizing Natural RadiationRadiation Safety and Noise Abatement Div.Ministry of the Environment



Dear Readers,We want to thank local contributors for their

relevant articles and also send a special thanks to all the ModiInfo readers who sent us their adorable Purim pictures. As Modiin’s only English publication, ModiInfo wishes to share your pictures, stories and comments with the greater community, so please continue to send them.

We appreciate all the support and positive feedback we have received as the magazine has grown and improved. To improve matters further and in response to readers’ requests we are offering home delivery of ModiInfo. In addition, we are compiling an e-mail list of ModiInfo readers to be able to send direct updates and announcements throughout the month. If you would like to receive ModiInfo in your mailbox and/or join the e-mail list, please e-mail us your information.

Best wishes for a Chag Purim Sameach,

Daniella Hellerstein and Caryn Meltz052-6404-414, 052-3868-768

[email protected]

www.modiinfo.com

Graphics by Ellen Perlis: 08-971-6012Graphics Assistant, Tanya Green: 08-975-0287



By: Gayle Shimoff

Being a parent is hard work. Being a parent to a child with behavioral, social or learning difficulties is even harder. At first, it may take a long time to recognize that a problem exists. There are many justifiable reasons for a child to be going through a tough period, which do not suggest problems with his development. Aliyah, birth of a sibling, family circumstances, prolonged illness, are all situations which could easily account for developmental setbacks or difficulties.

Life has settled down, but your concerns have not gone away. Maybe your son in gan chova screams each time you turn on the vacuum cleaner or food processor and you can’t calm him down, or get any house work done. So you’ve adjusted your schedule and do the cooking and chores when he is in gan in the morning, or at a play date in the afternoon. No big deal, that’s what families are about, adjusting to each other’s individual needs, and making allowances for differences.

But he cries when you leave him in gan and more than half the year has gone by and he still doesn’t participate in circle time. The gannenet wants you take him for an “ivchun”. The questions race through your mind and crash into each other as you search for the answers: “Does every difficulty have to be evaluated?” “Whom can I trust to give me clear, definitive answers? “ADD is so prevalent these days, how can I be certain that my son will not be labeled with this diagnosis automatically?”

v v v

Each person is a composite of the interaction between their cognitive, psycho-social, emotional, spiritual and physical development. We each have our own set of strengths and weaknesses, enabling us to participate in the world in a unique way. As long as we are able to function successfully and independently in our environment, then the combination of skills we possess works. Each and every one of us struggles at something, be it social awkwardness, learning a second language or riding a bike.

HOWEVER… when the severity of our difficulties or struggles prevents us (or our child) from participating in life in a socially acceptable and successful way, then it is time to seek intervention.

Knowing whom to go to, whom to trust and how to understand the results of the evaluation process requires investigative work first. Taking the time to do your homework will minimize the number of dead ends you encounter and wrong turns you take in your quest to find the source of your child’s academic or developmental difficulties, so that you can help him effectively throughout life.

1. Narrow the playing field: Document your child’s academic and/or social difficulties. Question teachers and gannanot carefully for clues about his development. Once you have a general idea, begin learning about

Understanding Your Child



The best bead store in townThe first origami store in Israel

Birthday activities and other eventsin a patient and creative environment –origami, fimo and beads

Yom Hamishpacha, Feb. 28:Making mobiles out of origami(15 NIS per person)Purim, March 16:Special Purim activitiesJewelry workshops for adults

For details:Charuzigami08-971-7200Solomon Center

9 Chativat Golani, Modiin

CharuzigamiCreative Kaitanafor PesachHurry and register

related disorders, in order to help the professionals arrive at a differential diagnosis. Understanding etiology is important since one set of symptoms can be present for different reasons, with different treatment protocols for each diagnosis. For example, children who are reportedly “not paying attention” in class are too often misdiagnosed with AD(H)D (Attention Deficit Disorder, with or without hyperactivity, and or ADHD- C, combined type). Alternatively, the inattentiveness could also be caused by:

a. CAPD – Central Auditory Processing Disorder; b. DSI – Disorder of Sensory Integration; or c. NVLD or NLD – Nonverbal Learning Disability.

Once you have a direction, you can begin searching for a qualified, Israeli licensed professional who can evaluate your child’s development and provide you with guidance and direction.

(Depending on your child, you may need to consult with more than one type of professional. It is important to know however, that not all evaluations are accepted from the Ministry of Education to qualify for services.)

2. Finding the right professional: Take the time to interview potential candidates, ask questions about credentials, training, experience and subspecialties. Assess their knowledge and understanding of the cognitive and linguistic development of bilingual and second language learners, considering that your child falls into one of these categories.

A note of caution: A diagnostician, who has focused the majority or his/her career on one specific population or disability, may unintentionally be prevented from remaining objective during the evaluation process.

3. Understanding the results: You will be investing much of your time, money, and emotional energy into this process. Don’t be afraid to ask questions when you meet to discuss the results of the evaluation. Sometimes parents walk away with only a vague understanding of the nature of their child’s struggles. Often results of evaluations only allude to a general area of dysfunction without delineating a specific diagnosis. In order to

effectively advocate for your child in school you should have a specific diagnosis in hand.

Exposing our inner world to the scrutiny of a stranger can be a difficult decision. Yet, because we are human, we often have to look outside ourselves for guidance and understanding of difficult situations. When doing so as parents, take the time to understand the issues and investigate your options. v

Gayle Shimoff, MA, Learning Disabilities and Reading Specialist, has been living in Israel with her family for more than 12 years. Gayle lives in Beit Shemesh and is an educational consultant for Partners with Parents. Gayle can be reached at [email protected].

Understanding Your Child

To Advertise n 052-6404-414 n 052-3868-768 n [email protected] n www.modiinfo.com8

For more informationplease contact Jodi Wachspress, 054-530-0297

Hebrew and English speaking therapistsDimri Towers, Yigal Yadin 37 • Phone 08-975-0665

Relaxation, Meditation and Visualization WorkshopA 6-week course that will empower you to identify stress in

your body and teach you to release it effectively.Vivienne Kosowsky, Holistic Healing Practitioner, 054-750-0718

A Multidisciplinary Therapeutic Center In Central Modiin

Buchman Mamad UpdateBy: Daniella Hellerstein

The new Buchman Mamad (religious public school) is now a fact and will certainly open this September. The inaugural meeting of the school parents was held in January and reached an attendance of 200 people. A committee of 35 parents was formed to begin important work on organizing the school. These parents are deeply committed to the new school and have volunteered to participate by serving on various va’adot (committees). The group is made up of both current Buchman residents and others who are planning to move to Modiin this summer and want to get a head start on being involved in their children’s education. The second school meeting was very successful in that, although nothing concrete was decided, everyone had an opportunity to speak and express themselves. The overall feeling was one of optimism and collaboration with a united desire to achieve the highest level of education possible for the children. In dealing with differing views the parents wish to set an example for children of understanding, mutual respect and patience in an environment that everyone can feel comfortable in.

Some key aspects of the school are still unknown such as who the principal will be and what the “spirit/specialty” of the school will be. What has been decided

Continued on page 21


Ten Good Reasons for Eye ExaminationsBy: Miriam Album BSc MCOptom

The eye examination is a vital health check and should be part of everyone’s normal health regime. Here are 10 important reasons to have a regular examination:

1. You only have one pair of eyes. Once lost, your eyesight may never be replaced.

2. Unlike your teeth, your eyes do not usually hurt when there is something wrong.

3. The eye examination can pick up early signs of potentially blinding eye conditions, such as glaucoma.

4. The earlier a problem is detected the greater the chance of successful treatment.

5. The eye examination can also detect a number of other underlying health problems, such as high blood pressure or diabetes.

6. Eyesight can be corrected with spectacles and/or contact lenses.

7. Good vision means working and playing better and safer - in fact it means a better quality of life.

8. For children, good eyesight is vital for learning. An eye examination will detect any problems in sight which may be affecting school performance.

9. When we approach age forty it is normal to experience difficulties with near vision. By having an eye examination and remedying the problems, we can improve our quality of life significantly. This may be with reading glasses or with a multifocal lens whereby one can see at distance, intermediate and at near with a single lens with NO unattractive lines on the lenses.

10. Poor eyesight is dangerous. Make sure that you meet the legal requirement for driving.

Unless otherwise advised you should have an eye examination every two years. It may be necessary to have examinations more frequently depending on your age and medical history. v

Miriam Album is a British qualified optometrist with 17 years experience and runs a clinic in Modiin. Please see ad on page 7.

Dairy caféset in the midst of

Neot KedumimNatural Preserves

Events for up to 50 people

Kosher u

nder

the

Rabbin

ate Su

pervi

sion

Finally there's a place to go!

Shana TovaU’MetukaWe look forwardto seeing you!From the entire staffof Café B'Kislev

Open:Sunday-Thursday: 9:00-18:00

Friday: 8:30-14:00

08-924-0063

Musical instruments,pianos and

sound systems

Trade inoption

• Moved • New Location • Yishpro Center •

• M

ove

d •

New

Lo

cati

on

• Y

ish

pro

Cen

ter

•

• Mo

ved • N

ew Lo

cation

• Yish

pro

Cen

ter

Yis

hp

ro C

ente

r •

• Mo

ved

Tel: 08-926-8331 • Fax: 08-926-8332Cell: 054-666-3568 • www.kleyzemermod.co.il

Yishpro Center, Modiin

Starting December 1

All our customers are invited tovisit us at our new location

Yishpro Center(next to Cellcom)

NEW:Registration open

for private or grouplessons for various

instrumentsfor all ages.



By: Daniella Hellerstein

The Oasis Center is a private therapeutic clinic designed to treat patients with a range of issues in a safe and nurturing environment. Opened several months ago by Jodi Wachspress, the clinic has already been lauded as an exceptional treatment center by both clients and therapists alike. After three years working in private practice in Modiin as an art therapist, Wachspress felt something lacking by working as a lone therapist. She decided it would be serve her clients and her own professional needs to work as part of a therapy team. Working as a team, thought Wachspress, would allow a group of professionals to bounce ideas off each other and have consultation meetings regarding how best to treat patients.

What was a dream became a reality when ideal office space in the heart of Modiin became available. As soon as Wachspress bought the office, word spread that a clinic was being formed and interest grew from there. It seemed that Wachspress was not the only professional in her field who saw the potential benefit to being part of a group. A variety of therapists jumped at the opportunity to join a practice where they could receive the support of other experienced professionals. Wachspress had preconceived notions of the kinds of therapists she wished to include in her clinic such as

An Oasis in the Midst of the City

music, dance, art and family. Here vision came through as all those types of therapists contacted her and the group was formed. The holistic therapy component evolved afterward, and according to Wachspress, adds a lot to the quality and allure of the clinic, “because people desire the combined approach of creative art therapies and holistic therapies.”

The clinic treats the entire family, both children and adults. In addition to the creative arts therapies, the clinic boasts marriage and family counseling, eating disorder counseling, clinical psychology, Chinese medicine, nutrition, holistic healing and speech therapy. The therapeutic approach Oasis espouses is a “back door approach” which is considered to be less threatening than other more traditional approaches. Creative art therapies allow patients to work out their own issues in a safe and risk free environment. Using modalities such as art, music and movement, clients express themselves and learn about themselves without the pressure of needing to verbalize their feelings. With this indirect approach, the client feels control but receives guidance from the therapist throughout the session.

Not only did Wachspress carefully choose the therapeutic staff, but she also used her skills as an art therapist to carefully plan the overall design and layout of the physical space. There are two treatment rooms, one of which is a fully equipped art room, an office and a small waiting area. The color scheme and décor create a safe, comfortable and warm environment for treating patients. It contrasts the often sterile and frightening environment of most medical treatment centers.

Patients can call the clinic to make an appointment with a specific therapist or can ask for recommendations based on what would be an appropriate fit. As director, Wachspress tries to make that fit with a therapist who conducts the initial intake. From there, that therapist may consult with the rest of the team and redirect the patient to another therapist if necessary. If a therapist encounters a more serious situation when dealing with a child, he/she will consult with the child’s school yoetzet and social worker. Often, therapists and teachers consult with one another but always with the parents’ consent and according to the highest standards of confidentiality

Most of the clients are English speakers but all therapists speak both Hebrew and English, and some speak French. Although currently all sessions are one-on-one the clinic is planning to offer a range of workshops. Topics will include eating disorders, bullying, LD/ADHD issues pertaining to children and adults as well as Olim support groups for both children and adults. v

To make an appointment or to speak with a therapist call, 08-975-0665 . The Oasis Center is located at 37 Yigal Yadin, Dimri Towers, Modiin. See ad on page 8.



In Search of Ancient Modiin By: Daniella Hellerstein

On a sunny Friday morning in January, Modiin tour guide and resident, Joli Shcokett, led a tour of ancient Modiin on a historical trip through what is thought to be the site of the Chanukah story and home to the Maccabees.

The tour began at Park Dan, the lookout point of El Media and Tel E Ras, off road 443. Joli explained that although there are many reasons to believe this may be the site of ancient Modiin, it has been impossible to investigate further because of the presence of a few hundred Arab families who live there. We know that the name Media sounds like Modiin and a Second Temple period olive press was discovered here. From there we moved on to Sheik Chirabaui which is the tomb of a sheik buried in the forest nearby. The tomb is built of Hashmonaim period stone taken from a nearby site excavated by Victor Goren in 1870. It is believed to be the true site of the Maccabean graves although a small minority believe the tomb to be the burial site of Matityahu HaCohen (there is no evidence to suggest this and no archeologists believe it to be true).

Joli also led us to the so-called Maccabean graves (as marked on road 443). She explained that it is a Byzantine grave site and bares no resemblance to Jewish First or Second Temple burial. We visited Chir Bet Chamam where 20 ossuaries (gluskamot) of Hellenized Jews were buried. The graves contain both Jewish names such as Eliezer and Sarah and Hellenistic names such as Menelaus and Pilipus. The graves were discovered during the widening of Road 443 and the site was preserved due to the insistence of environmentalists (yerukim).

Also in the forest is a large water tank behind which is an ancient synagogue, two mikvaot and a clay factory. These remains again suggest the site as a possible location of ancient Modiin. Even more convincing is the coin that Deputy Mayor Alex Weinreb found

from the time of Alex Yanai 76 BC (the end of the Hashmonaim Era) when casually walking through the area. Lastly, we visited a 1948 war memorial which consists of eight



In leui of giving Mishloach Manot, you can purchase Purim cards to send to family and friends. All proceeds will be used for Ezer Modiin projects. To purchase the cards, please call one of the following people:

Ruth Rose (Kipodan) 973-1353; Laurie Ann Sherby (Givat C) 970-9497; Rifka Lange (Givat C) 970-7834; Elly Waller (Buchman) 975-1184; or Rachel Berger (Buchman) 975-1885. v

Megilla reading for women by womenPlace: Bet Knesset Hodaya – Ashkenaz

(corner Nachal Zohar & Nahar Hayarden, main entrance)

Time: 9:45 am Purim day

All women welcome! Purim Sameach!

Eight Treasures: Family Clinic forTraditional Chinese Medicine

•Acupuncture •Nutritional Healing•Chinese Herbal Remedies•Weight Loss Management

•Lifestyle Counseling•Women’s Health •Pediatrics

Jodi Marder, Dipl. Ac., Ch.Hb., R.D.18 Rehov Yehuda, Kfar HaOranim

Oasis Center, 37 Yigal Yadin, Dimri Towers, ModiinMondays and Thursdays

052-251 8362

triangular slabs of concrete and represent the soldiers who fought in the war. Interestingly, the triangular emblem of Modiin is based on this memorial. v

Joli Schokett is a licensed Israel tour guide with specialty certification for the city of Modiin. She offers group and family tours of ancient and modern Modiin in both English and Hebrew. Joli also offers all inclusive camping tips and Bar/Bat Mitzvah theme tours. [email protected] or 052-448-6604



Purim Shpiel Luna Park Coming to Modiin By: Avigdor McPhee

The municipality of Modiin has signed an agreement to bring the Luna Park to our lovely city. The large plot of land on Rechov Rabin, until now an undeveloped mound of dirt, will be the sight of the park. The area had been underdeveloped until now, because the funds earmarked to development of infrastructure in this city for synagogues, parks, etc., has been misplaced somewhere in the Israeli treasury. Sources to ModiInfo believe this may be connected to a new shopping mall in Carmiel. At any rate, the Park should open 2012, just about the same time as the train is scheduled to be completed.

To appease the environmental community, the runoff from the water park will continue down Emek Rabin to the Annabe Park. Of note, no one from the municipality knows what Annabe means. In the ancient Navajo dialect it means: “It will never be finished.”

This just in: Following the name change of Reut to Buchman Mizrach, the council has decided to disengage from Modiin. There are differing opinions on how to proceed. While some Reutains abide by civil disobedience, others are more zealous. There has been talk about renaming it the Independent Kingdom of Reut. The massive Modiin police force is planning the forced evacuation of Reut. Most of the four-member force has been attempting to block infiltrators into Maccabim.

Finally, in the Olympics the Israeli ice dancers Galit Chait and Sergei Sakhnovski are going for gold. The Israeli hopefuls live in the quaint Biblical town of Freehold, New Jersey. It would be quite an upset if they overcame the odds to defeat the Russians and French skaters but you never know: Do you believe in miracles?!

Chag Sameach! v

The Kingsley Brothers

Ruth & Keren Frydman

Shira Sussman

Abie Sussman

The Shertz Boys Tali, Ayellet & Gilad Baynash

Shai Shpergel

Shir Shpergel

AriellaPfeffer

Tamara, Ori, Eitan & HillelWachspress


Bringing YU to YOUBy: Sarah Manning

More graduates of Yeshiva University in New York make Aliyah than any other university in the world, and it is estimated that there are now over 3,000 YU alumni living in Israel. YU’s President, Richard M. Joel, visited Modiin in January to meet local alumni and find out what they would like to see from their alma mater. President Joel explained how Israel is becoming an increasing focus of YU’s activities in the United States, and how he sees the partnership between its current and past students developing. For example, alumni working in a wide range of industries in Israel recently took part in a Career Fair for YU students who are currently studying in Israel, to advise them on the university courses they should take to best qualify themselves for good careers in Israel or the US.

JJ Sussman, a graduate of YU and working in hi-tech since making Aliyah in 1997, is helping the YU Israel Alumni Association set up a chapter in the Modiin region (including Chashmonaim and Nof Ayalon). “We want to have local events to help YU graduates living in the area to meet one another, for socializing, networking and mutual support. Many of us encounter the same issues with adjusting to life in Israel, and can perhaps help one another to synthesize the values we gained from our education at YU with the realities of Aliyah.”

As part of a week-long YU Colloquium in Israel in March, there will be discussion panel events taking place in Modiin, Ra’anana, Bet Shemesh and Jerusalem. Alumni from YU’s undergraduate and graduate schools will host events to explore the relevance of YU’s philosophy of Torah U’Madda to the legal and medical profession, to the religious Zionist community, and to Israel’s education system, with local and American speakers taking part. There will be a Family Shabbaton to give alumni an opportunity to reconnect with friends and faculty from their college years, with guest speakers including Rabbi Dr. Norman Lamm. The week will culminate in a formal Convocation at which Yeshiva University will honor three exemplary individuals for their contributions to Israeli life – Rabbanit Malka Bina, Professor Moshe Kaveh and Rabbi Shlomo Riskin - and Mr. Victor Geller, for his lifelong commitment to YU.

Alumni who are interested in taking part in any of these YU events should contact Ellen Clayman at 02 531 3015 or email [email protected].

Megilla Reading, Continued from page 4

being sung by a woman’s voice deepens the spiritual and physical link with Esther herself and with all the good that her character represents. The connection to the mitzvah is strengthened by women’s relationships with the heroine and with the megilla.

Our Modiin women who assume responsibility for reading the megilla, invested much time and energy in learning the related halachot and in practicing the musical tunes and proper enunciation of the text. These women are highly respected and appreciated for their initiative, their motivation and for their contribution to the community. The holiday of Purim provides a unique religious and spiritual opportunity for women and for their daughters. As in the past number of years, the Modiin women’s megilla reading continues to unify women from different synagogues and neighborhoods. It is a positive force which strengthens connections throughout the city.

All women are welcome to join in the women’s megilla reading. The reading will take place in Bet Knesset Hodaya – Ashkenaz (corner of Nachal Zohar and Nahar Hayarder, main entrance) at 9:45 am, Purim day. Women are kindly asked to bring their own copies of the megilla and to please arrive on time. The organizers express their appreciation to the synagogue for opening their doors to the greater Modiin community, for graciously hosting the event, and for their participation in making this a meaningful and spiritual Purim.

Chag Purim Sameach! Have a happy Purim!Written on behalf of the Modiin Women’s Megilla

Reading Committee. v

ModiInfo is an independently owned, advertiser supported publication distributed monthly to Modiin and the surrounding neighborhoods. ModiInfo welcomes all articles and ads but reserves the right to edit or reject submissions. The views expressed by writers and contributors are not necessarily those of ModiInfo.

ModiInfo is not responsible for facts or claims made by ads or authors, nor for any typographical errors. Work produced by ModiInfo is the property of ModiInfo and may not be reproduced without consent.


Modiin 100By: Elliot Cahan

Welcome to Modiin 100, where we will attempt to educate and provide the Anglo community of Modiin with information on the Israel Police Department and the vital role that it plays in Modiin. The idea behind this column has been based on my experiences as a volunteer police officer in the Mishmar Ezrahi (civil patrol) and my work with Dror Israeli, who serves as the community police officer for Givat C and Buchman. Dror and I certainly hope that this column can serve as a resource and bridge on how, if the need arises, to get the best service possible from our police.

The first and most important thing to understand about the police force is that it is not part of the Modiin municipality which is different than the model used in North America. There are both positives and negatives to this model of law enforcement. One of the positives is that since the police department is an independent and separate body from local government it is removed from local politics and thus able to use its resources where they are needed most. However, since the local police commander does not report to the local authority, it is essential for the local commander to be able to work well together with local authorities and understand the needs of the community in which they serve. While it might seem like a nuance, there is a police

department in Modiin, but it is not Modiin’s police department as its budget and funding comes from the national government and ultimately reports to police headquarters in Jerusalem.

Community policing has been in existence in Israel for over 10 years. The idea behind community policing is to decentralize the role of the police and allow more community input and participation in fighting crime at the local level. A community police officer is able to get to know the neighborhood and help work with the community on crime prevention as the officer develops a familiarity with the community needs. In Modiin there are community police officers who serve Lapid, Reut, Maccabim, and Modiin. All of these officers have physical offices in their communities except for Dror, whose office is located in the Mercaz Rav Techumi near the library due to the lack of appropriate office space in his service area. Officer Israeli routinely patrols the neighborhood on his police motorcycle. The community police officer can alleviate the need to go to the local police station to file a report or a complaint and in many instances the officer will actually come to your house. However, please remember that in any emergency situation call 100 directly. Our local police station can be reached at 972-6444 and Dror Israeli can be reached at 050-764-3337. If you have any ideas, suggestions, or questions for future columns please feel free to e-mail [email protected]. v



By: Dr. Michael Roth

School violence seems to be an area of increasing concern in Israel. Bullying is a form of school violence and is defined as the repeated harming, either physically or emotionally, of one student by another. Victims of chronic bullying often suffer from depression, anxiety and suicidal thoughts. Recently a family in Connecticut sued their school district after their 11-year-old son committed suicide. The youngster’s parents claimed that their child had been the victim of bullying and that the school did not properly address the issue even after they had complained several times. The court found in favor of the family. It is therefore important for parents to recognize signs bullying behavior and know how to get the school to prevent further victimization.

Of course many children, especially younger ones, will come right out and say who is bothering them at school. However, older children may be embarrassed to disclose that they are being picked on. Parents should be aware of the following signs that may indicate the child is being victimized: changes in mood, complaints about not feeling well, drop in academic performance, increased aggression/acting out at home, difficulty sleeping, reluctance to leave the house. If you suspect that your child is being bullied, you can ask a few questions such as: What did you do at school today? Who did you play with? Did you like playing with him/her? Who are your friends in school? Who don’t you like to play with and why? Are you looking forward to going to school tomorrow? Why or why not? The language can be modified for use with older children.

If you suspect that your child is being bullied, arrange to speak with the mechanech/mechanechet (home room teacher). Try to be as non-confrontational as possible. People in general, and especially in Israel, tend to go on the defensive. Ask the teacher who your child is friendly with. Has the teacher observed any negative interaction between your child and his/her classmates? Ask the teacher to keep an eye on the situation and touch base with him/her after a week or two. With older children the bullying may be occurring in a specific place or at a

set time (i.e. playground at recess). If that is the case the intervention is straightforward. Remember to document your conversation with the date and plan of action. If the situation persists, request a meeting with the yoetzet (school-based counselor) and the teacher. Again, try to keep the tone positive and focus on working together to create some prevention strategies. When you get home, summarize the points of the meeting and the plan of action, indicate your understanding of the proposed plan, and send a copy to the yoetzet.

If the situation continues, request to speak to the principal. Bring your spouse or a friend. Be polite but firm and report what has been attempted. If your child is truly suffering and is being seen by a therapist, have the therapist write a letter to the school noting the significance of the issue. Ask to see the school policy regarding school violence (this is actually an official document that all schools have). Request a written plan of action from the principal. Hopefully the situation will not deteriorate to this stage.

When a child is being victimized, parents understandably react with emotion. It is important to remember not to storm into the principal’s office demanding action as this will not serve your interests. The Israeli school system has a definite hierarchy that begins with the principal. I would also not recommend confronting the bully’s parents. Just as parents don’t want to believe their child is the victim, parents don’t want to hear that their child is the school bully.

If your child is being bullied, try to increase the number of positive social experiences for him/her by inviting friends over to play. As you solicit the help of the school, reassure your child that you are doing everything you can so that he feels safe at school. v

Some useful websites about bullying: www.bullypolice.org, www.kidshealth.org

Dr. Michael Roth, School Psychologist, Modiin School Psychological Services

What to Do About Bullying



ServicesTell our advertisers you saw their ad in .

Appliance andAir Conditioning Service

Repair All Electrical AppliancesRepair of Central Air Conditioning Units

Home and Commercial Repair and ServiceSkilled • Guaranteed • Quality Workmanship

All Under One Roof

Hezy Yosef050-5300822

ANTARCTICA

Shimon’s ServicesShimon Zack Qualified Electrician

Superior ServiceNot on Shabbat Shimon Zack 24 HoursMobile: 052-295-3717, 057-735-3717

Tel.: 08-970-7194

lic. no, 056560

~ Shabbat clocks~ Upgrading to three-phase~ Ceiling fans~ Garden lighting~ Consultations

Yadei ZahavGolden Hands

I am the solution for: • repairs • installation of decorative fixtures • renovation • painting • plumbing and water heaters

I clean your empty apartmentbefore you move in

Free consultation in your homeReliable • Professional • PromptBids presented before work begins

Raanan Satat 050 535 5734

Shimon’s ServicesShimon Zack Qualified Electrician

Mobile: 052-295-3717, 057-735-3717Tel.: 08-970-7194 24 Hours, Not on Shabbatlic. no. 056560

Repairs•Installations•Maintenance

u All Your Electrical Needsu Repair of Household Appliancesu Devices against limestone/ power cuts/lightning

their ad in .

Dynamica Screens and WindowsScreens against mosquitoes and flies:Sliding screensRoller screensScreen doors

Windows:Custom-madeDouble glazed

Over 17 years of experience

Eli: 052-368-0188 www.ymp.co.il/eli

Ein Tikan(Cockroach Free)

Guidance & Consultation in Gardening and AgricultureCellular: 050 541 0862 Telefax: 08-926 1670

E-mail: [email protected]

Amos Rosenthal - MacabimPest Control and Fumigation ofDomestic pests and Parasites

CockroachesAntsTermitesWood WormSpraying before events against flying insects

License no. 942

Pigeon-lice, Moths, WaspsTicks, Fleas & Bed-bugsMice & RodentsMoles

Kobi MazganimAir Conditioning

Installation and Service

Expert Air Conditioner Technicianfor Tadiran, Amcor, Electra, Elco and Tornado

Only original replacement parts are used

08-972-1955 052-251-2651



Landau’s Super Clean Chickens

There’s over a hundred ways to cook a chickenbut only one chicken worth cooking.

02-996-1575; 050-558-0822; 050-767-0566www.landaus-chickens.com

Glatt kosher meat • mehadrin chickens

Ram Or Design and Construction

Custom made:t Kitchenst Bathroom vanitiest Bedroom closetst Sliding closetst Display cabinets

References of satisfied customersthroughout ModiinPlease visit our showroom for a free consultation7 Rehov Mazal Eliezer (corner of Sachorov) Rishon LeZion

Telephone: 03-961-8569 t Fax: 03-951-5344E-mail: [email protected] www.ram-or.com

Why are Modiin home owners going in droves to Rishon Le Zion?It’s our winning combination of design expertise,personal attention, quality manufacturing and affordable prices!

Why We Live in IsraelBy: Caryn Meltz

We have received numerous comments from our readers in chutz la’aretz how one of the articles they take greater appreciation of is the “Why We Live in Israel” column. It is these stories that provide inspiration to those who are contemplating making Aliya as well as those who aren’t planning on joining us here. The stories lend a clearer picture to our daily lives… not what they see on the nightly news, but an inner sense of life in Israel.

The stories we’ve received have been from those who have been here a long time and some just a short while. Even a new oleh for a day would be able to share a “Why We Live in Israel” story. We encourage you to continue sending us your stories. They are not just chizuk for us here but for those back in the old country. E-mail us at [email protected]. v

Magen David Adom Blood DriveKol hakavod to all who donated blood at the

Magen David Adom blood drive on January 16. Eighty-four pints were collected! Yasher Ko’ach to all our volunteers. We look forward to seeing you all at the upcoming blood drive on May 7. Let’s make it a success together!



Recipe Corner

Classifieds • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

This space can be yours for 50 NIS + VAT.

THE AMERICAN PAINTERExperienced house and office painter

Quality work at reasonable pricesCall Michael: 054-672-0234

[email protected]

DALIA’S DESIGNSProfessional DressmakerAlterations on men’s and

women’s clothingBy appointment, not on Shabbat

08-970-7194

ILENE CAHAN, Licensed DietitianHealthy eating helps boost energy,

improve weight, choleserol, blood pressure and [email protected]

054-8041954 08-971-740150 NIS off 1st visit – just mention this ad

YOGA – New Classes

• FOR EVERYONE • WOMEN’S HEALTH

Zahava 08-9264670

YOGAFOR PREGNANT WOMEN

AND AFTER BIRTH

Call Zahava(Wingate-certified teacher)

08-9264670

JUGGLER FOR HIRE World-class juggling and original

comedy will make your event truly special. Professional performer with

thousands of shows experience available for all occasions.

www.juggler.co.il • 054-7845999

The Center for Healing Emotional Eating

Offering individual/group counseling;Making Peace with Food workshops.Experienced therapist with special

training in eating disorders. Tamar Varon, M.S. 0546-720-213

Orthomolecular Nutrition:Documented results using

nutritional supplementation.Dolev Gilmore R.Nu

08-9264670

Oznai Haman (Hamentashen)By: Yaki OzPastry Chef at the LaLush Bakery and Pastry Shop

Ingredients:150 grams sugar

200 grams margarine or butter

300 grams flour

2 eggs

Teaspoon vanilla

1 packet of baking powder

Grated lemon

Instructions:Mix the margarine, sugar, the eggs and vanilla. Add the flour and baking powder and form into dough.

Allow the dough to rest for 30 minutes. Roll out the dough and cut circles with the rim of a glass. Use your choice of fillings for the middle and fold three corners in to form a triangle. Bake in the oven at 180 degrees for fifteen minutes or until golden brown.

SUFFERING FROM BACK AND NECK PAIN?

Come and learn Alexender Technique:A new non-stress way to handle your daily tasks.

Call Sandryn, experienced teacher.972-4003, 050-566-2874

CHARUZIGAMICreative Kaitana for Pesach

Offering individual/group counseling;Hurry and register

For details please call 08-9717200Solomon Center, Chativat Golani,

Modiin

CAR FOR SALESuzuki Baleno 2001 GLX 2AB

NIS 50,000Call: 03-608-7808



Candle Lighting

The BoxBy: Ronit Sherby, 4th Grade

I was walking down the street when I saw a small wooden box by the road. Suddenly, I heard a voice say, “Help! Let me out of here!” To my surprise, the voice was coming from the box…

I peeked inside. I gasped. Inside was a talking armadillo!

“What are you doing here?” I stammered.

“I’m not exactly sure myself,” said the Armadillo, “but whatever I’m doing here, you’ve got to get me out of here!” he roared.

“All right,” I said shakily. I lifted the armadillo out of the box. He looked a little calmer now that he was free to roam around.

“What is your name?” I asked.

“Archie,” he replied.

“Nice name,” I said.

“Thanks,” answered Archie, “What’s yours?”

And that’s how Archie became my pet. Now he lives with us and we’re great friends. We tell each other secrets and I guess he’s pretty cute, for an armadillo, I mean!

The Alien SchoolBy: Amitai Rosenberg, 6th Grade

I don’t know why, but today I got up early so I decided to go to school early and do my homework. When I got there, I had a problem with math, so I went to the teacher’s room to find Mr. Barnaby. I opened the door and was surprised to see that my teachers were all aliens…

I screamed! The alien teachers started running after me. I started to run, but the alien teachers were faster than me. When I got to my class, I wanted to take my backpack and run away, but an alien teacher held me up. She asked me what I wanted from her. I told her I had a question in math. She answered it.

I decided to stay in school. When my class arrived, I saw they were also aliens! I was scared. When I went home, I looked in the mirror. I was also an alien!

Then I woke up. It was just a dream. Next time, I will not go to school early!

Kids’ Page

Feb 24/26 ShevatParshat BeshalachShabbat ShekalimCandle lighting: 17:13Shabbat ends: 18:11

March 1/3 AdarParshat TerumaCandle lighting: 17:19Shabbat ends: 18:15

March 8/10 AdarParshat TezaveiShabbat ZachorCandle lighting: 17:24Shabbat ends: 18:21

March 15/17 AdarParshat KiTezteiShabbat ParahCandle lighting: 17:29Shabbat ends: 18:26

March 22/24 AdarParshat Veyekel/PikudeiShabbat ChodeshCandle lighting: 17:34Shabbat ends: 18:31



Certified kosher by Rabbanut Modiin, Beit Yosef and Jerusalem

Please call to place an order and for free delivery.

Fabulous selection of fresh fruits and vegetables

Best prices, best service, best quality

Two LocationsKaiser

69 Lasham, Modiin • 08-926-8417, 926-8303

Country CenterEmek Hahula, Modiin • 08-975-3394/2

Country ShukThe best parking, the best prices, the best kept secret

Super Aryeh

0603

Documents

Transcript of 0603