avi's adventures

3 years later...

2010-11-21T02:02:00.002-05:00

So it's about 3 years since my last post.....how time flies!!!

What's new?
First off, still living in Israel. But now I'm in Ramat Bet Shemesh Aleph, living with my beautiful wife Kimberley and our fantastic son Akiva.

Still learning at Aish Hatorah in the Old City, and still fanatic about the Habs!

Stay tuned...more of an update coming soon!!!

Life....or something like it

2007-07-10T09:41:00.000-04:00

So.....AEPi trip finished up yesterday, and I must say it was an absolutely amazing experience. The guys were an incredible group, the trip itself was phenomenal and I look forward to building the relationships I have made. Paintballing, go karting, 7 hour hikes, jumping off waterfalls, ATVing, kayaking....Rabbi Denbo sure knows how to plan a 3 week program. And that doesnt even include the spectacular classes, the brotherhood and the all around great times had by all.

Today I sent off my resignation letter, so as of July 15th, I will no longer be the Hillel director at Queen's University. I also started my first day of classes at Aish, and while it was nice to be learning again, I feel like it will take some time before I'm back in the swing of things.

Also, it looks like I'll be off to Italy for 12 days before Hasbara 4 comes to town August 6th. All in all....quite the busy day!

Time to run off to class, but more of an update soon!!!

Hamatzav

2007-06-17T08:42:00.000-04:00

Hamatzav.....literal translation, "the situation". That's how Israelis refer to the changing geo-political landscape in the region, specifically our continued conflict with the Arab world at large. And that's what today's blog will cover....the situation in Israel as I see it.

Over the past week, absolute chaos has ruled Gaza as Hamas quickly destroyed all vestiges of Fatah prominence in 5 days of fighting. Hopefully you heard the stories.....men dragged out of their homes and executed in front of their families, people thrown off building rooftops, Fatah supporters stripped down to their skivvies and paraded for the whole world to see, etc....The result? 2 separate Palestinian entities, Gaza controlled by the Islamist Hamas, backed by Iran and Syria, and the West Bank controlled by Fatah, the "moderate", pro-Western Palestinian ruling body. In fact, today Mahmoud Abbas swore in the interim Prime Minister Fayyad, his former Finance Minister, and a man with close ties to the West. Needless to say, I find this all really interesting. A few questions......What does this mean for the region? For Israel? For the Palestinians themselves? And how did this come about?

I will try to answer the last question first. The strengthening of Hamas came about by various variables, each contributing to this latest coup d'etat. Firstly, the Americans pushed for elections and the Israelis allowed it. Much like the Liberal party of Canada lost control of Parliament to Harper's Conservatives over a $350,000 sponsorship scandal, so too did Hamas reap the rewards of a corrupt PA, which, under Arafat's "leadership" squandered billions. It was just as much a vote against Fatah as it was a vote in favour of Hamas. Next, Israel unilaterally left Gaza. Now, don't get me wrong, I felt at the time it was the right move, allowing our troops to focus their attention elsewhere. But, that pullout coupled with our pullout of Southern Lebanon 7 years ago, allowed extremist groups a firmer foundation on which to re-arm, re-train and attack. Much like Hezbollah became stronger when we left town (killing anti-Syrian MP's, the most recent MP Eido and 9 others this past weekend), so too did Hamas gain strength in our absence. And just as we went to war for 33 days last summer with Hezbollah, so too will we engage Hamas (in 3 weeks according to the new Defence Minister, Ehud Barak). Add to the mix Fatah's inability to quell Hamas, or even their apathy in allowing Hamas to take over, we have a recipe for disaster for the Palestinian people.

And we have 2 de facto Palestinian states, one a theocracy ruled by terrorists, another a sham democracy ruled by other terrorists.

But that's not it. As aforementioned, Lebanon is another battleground to keep an eye on. Fatah al-Islam, acting as a proxy (like Hamas) for Iran, continues to attack Tripoli and assasinate anti-Syrian forces. As a result, the Lebanese army has responded harshly, bombing the refugee camp and decimating the terrorists with tactics that would cause an international uproar should Israel have used them. And yet, somehow, these "experts" cry that the cause of this latest round of terror is not provoked by the axis of evil, but somehow is blamed on Israel and the poverty in which the refugees live.

Continuing with our tour of terror, we have Syria. Syria has been re-arming their military ever since the junior king took over rule from his dad. He has much to prove. Both to his people and to the Arab world. And if you are, like me, convinced that Saddam sent his WMD's to Syria before the American cavalry arrived, there is much to worry about in the Northern front.

Moving east, we reach Iraq. And thank G-d for the Hashmite Kingsdom of Jordan. For if not for Jordan, there would be a straight corridor from Iran and Iraq to Israel, in which terror could be perpetrated on unseen levels. As long as pro-Western Jordan remains a buffer state, Israel need not worry too much about it's Eastern front.

Finally, we have Egypt. The self proclaimed leaders of the Arab world have as much to worry about Hamas as Israel does. With the Muslim Brotherhood active in the country, and Hamas now running the show in Gaza, Egypt can only lose by going up against the Muslim extremists, and can only gain by not only allowing, but provocking continued attacks against Israel. I mean, better us than them, right?

So what does this mean for Israel? I think it means we are at another crossroads, another opportunity to succeed, and another opportunity to fail. We can restart peace talks with Fatah and the West Bank while attacking and trying to destroy Hamas' stronghold in Gaza. But it also means that we will be condemned internationally, and, based on last summer's War, this summer could very well set us back to 1967. We are sick of this constant state of war. We want peace. But if we have no one to negotiate with, or, if our negotiating partners cannot control their own people, where does that leave us?

And for the Palestinian people? I know better than to speak for them, but they have a huge opportunity here. Will the "silent majority" speak up and condemn the terror they have witnessed first hand? Will they seek a just and lasting resolution with Israel? Or will they caught up in this latest round of escalated violence and continue to fall victim to their own leadership?

My call? I see a full scale military conflict with Syria and Hezbollah on the Northern front, and a large scale operation in Gaza happening simutaneously by August 1st of this summer. That's hamatzav for me, anyways.....

Worst Game Ever

2007-05-27T09:58:00.000-04:00

Now that I feel like a true Israeli, I have sworn off taking taxis in favour of city buses. Why you may ask? Good question......the almighty dollar. Why should I pay 20, 30 or even 40 shmekels for a 10 minute cab ride when I can ride the bus for a mere 5.5 shmekels? Unfortunately, due to this change in transportation credo, I have begun to play a horrible game that I assume every Israeli plays......spot the terrorist.

First off, let me elaborate a little further on the safety measures the Israeli police provide for those riding the bus. At each and every stop, there is an armed officer that acts as a "bouncer" for anyone wanting to take the bus. He approaches everyone (myself included), wishing them a "yom tov" (nice day) in order to hear their reply (I answer in English---better to be a tourist at this point), he also stands by each bus as people board, he checks the various garbage receptacles looking for suspicious packages.....and that's just what I noticed, who knows what else he does.

So back to the game. As I stand at the bus stop, waiting for the 38 to take me from town to the Old City, my mind does not wander. I'm not thinking about the upcoming Stanley Cup finals, not about the constant barrage of Qassams landing in Sderot, or even who will win the Labor primaries this week and most probably replace Peretz as Defence Minister. I "people watch", looking for someone wearing a heavy jacket, carrying a bag suspiciously or anything out of the ordinary (which is tough, as everything is pretty much out of the ordinary). But then I start to wonder, what, if anything I would do if my spidey senses kicked in and I felt I should act. Would I tell someone in my (what would be) adrenaline filled broken Hebrew? Would I act myself and approach said suspect? Who knows.....All I do know is that this is a game I will be playing for the foreseeable future, and what bothers me the most is that I'm OK with that. In some sick and twisted way, it makes me feel more Israeli. I feel this will somehow bleed into my subconscious, so that in the coming weeks and months I will be able to contemplate the Sens chances against the Ducks, Barak or Ayalon as the new Labor leader and what the government will do in the South, all the while still playing the worst game ever.

Landed....

2007-05-08T05:12:00.000-04:00

Wow, what a gorgeous day....hot, humid and sticky.....man, I missed this place.

It's great to be back in Jeru, I honestly feel like I never left! The group has really come together in the short time we've been here and I can already see the unbelievable potential these kids, errr, participants have (I write kids, but they really aren't).

La Vitta Est Bella....life is good. How can anyone want to leave this majestic place, this gift from G-d? I know I can't.....

Avi's Ultimate Adventure

2007-05-06T10:38:00.000-04:00

And today, that adventure begins.

I feel as if my entire existence has been preparation for what's to come. Hebrew Academy, Hasbara, Hillel......I guess this trip to Israel is the culmination of years of mental and emotional growth to allow me the courage to go to Israel with the confidence that I now have on my own ability to lead a good Jewish life in the only Jewish state in the world.

What's this feeling I have? Am I nervous? excited? Some combination of both? I think it's the knowledge that a change is coming......We get so bogged down in our own personal routines, that I think when change does come, it's only natural to question it. We are creatures of habit and comfort, so when that comfort gets traded in for meaning, we become a bit apprehentious.....and maybe that's what I'm feeling now.

I am really excited for the Hasbara trip....great group of kids and I get to work with some of my fave people on the planet. After that.....your guess is as good as mine.

Stay tuned for more updates on this, my ultimate adventure!!!!

Where are we going?

2007-05-04T13:44:00.000-04:00

"Going Green" seems to be the issue-du-jour across North America, spearheaded by those people we rely on to tell us what to care about.......celebrities in Hollywood.

I mean, really, did I fall asleep last month and just wake up? Last time I checked, children are dying of hunger, people are living on the streets in every city in the world, there are more than 30 armed conflicts occuring worldwide, a litre of gas is more expensive than a cup of coffee, people wait months for an X-ray, students till pay too much for an education, etc......

And yet whats the issue? Environmentalism. Don't get me wrong, I love Mother Earth and I feel her pain. But the pain of my neighbour is more important to me.

And you want to know the worst thing about this neo-Green movement? The public is eating it up!!! People who don't recycle and people who don't even know what global warming is are now lining up to throw the Conservatives out of power because David Suzuki says so!?!? Ridiculous.

Winston Churchill said it best......The best argument against democracy is spending 5 minutes talking to the average voter.

The fact of the matter is that people are either stupid, naive or ignorant to a degree. And the celebrities pushing the Green agenda are banking on this, as are our Canadian politicians. When did the environment become the primary issue, the reason to elect an official?

Our present age of technology, globalism, the internet......this will be our collective undoing. There are so many important things to discuss, so many more important measures that our politicians need to take....and yet, our ignorance supercedes what's best for us, and, as we've made our bed, we will have to sleep in it.

And people wonder why the world laughs at us.....

Guess who's back, baby?!?!

2007-04-25T11:12:00.000-04:00

With the academic year winding down and many, many adventures to be had this summer, I turn my attention back to blogging. So much to say, so much to comment on.....but for my first blog in many months, I thought I'd give my hockey playoff predictions, so here they are:

Sabres over Rangers
Devils over Sens

Canucks will stun the Ducks (you heard it here first)
San Jose over Red Wings

Sabres over Devils
Canucks over San Jose

Canucks will win the cup in 6!

Tune in later this week for 3 ways to achieve peace in the Middle East (if it was only that easy...)

Happiness & Disaster

2006-10-13T11:07:00.000-04:00

So much to write, so little time.....

Let's just say that as time passes; as the leaves change colours and the lush, green landscape turns a pearly white; as the seasons move forward; as we age and grow and nourish our bodies and souls.....as all this happens, there is only one certainty. We approach our deaths. I don't want to be morbid or anything, but it's true.....no matter what path we take, the destination is the same for us all, regardless of....well, regardless of anything.

As we get older, and our own mortality begins to exert its fearful influence over us, we are faced with a growing threat....the threat of ineffectual existence. Our individual existence, defined in our own frakked up consciousness, can go one of two ways...either we are like the sand in the desert, or the stars in the sky.....we are each, individually, negligible. Collectively we might make up 6 plus billion people, but, individually, we are nothing but a speck of paint on a mural, or a blade of grass in a field. Or, individually, we are a universe unto ourselves. Each of us has a purpose, and our individual existence hinges on that purpose----on us defining what that purpose may purport to be, and to achieve it.

And yet, as we grow, we see this clearly, and still remain stagnant. Purpose, existence, clarity.....they all take a back seat to things like comfort and satisfaction. But, in the end, there's always 2 things....happiness and disaster.

But I guess that's life. Whether or not that's the way we are meant to live, I don't believe it matters. What matters is how we relate to others, our relationships. That's what defines us; lends us the strength to believe in that purpose, that existence. Until then, we continue making the same mistakes we've always made. Human nature dictates that our actions might not reflect our thoughts, but they definitely reflect our individual realities. This is the root, the foundation to which we cling, and without it, without this ideal that our actions are an outward projection of what's going on inside us, we are unable to connect to the ones we interact with. And that is, perhaps, the saddest thing of all.

2 things, my friends, 2 things....happiness and disaster.

Have a great shabbos!!!

This Week's sign that the apocalypse is upon us...

2006-09-27T13:42:00.000-04:00

2 signs this week....actually, 2 signs today.....

1) It is being reported that all-around NFL bad boy Terrell Owens (pictured) attempted suicide by downing a bottle of pain pills....I don't know what bothers me more...the tiny salary he garners (ha), or the fact that he didn't swallow enough pills...

2) I joined Facebook.

Truth: yours or mine?

2006-09-26T11:57:00.000-04:00

Well, there's absolutely no difference between the two....

Truth is absolute. Truth is reality. Truth is the path in which G-d allows us to reach our potential, realize the true nature of our collective and individual existence and it guides our thoughts and actions on a near sub-conscious level. I would like to begin with an analogy to better express my point....

Let us assume that there is a beautiful tree growing in the forest. This particular tree is easy to identify amongst the other trees in the forest due to its size and the shadows it casts. Now, there are 3 people enjoying the shade which this humungous tree provides. Person #1 mentions to the other 2 how beautiful the trees leaves are. He says he's never seen such a vibrant shade of red before. Person #2 disagrees. When he looks at the tree, all he can see are the amazing leaves as well, but when he looks up at the tree, all he sees are great, green leaves. Person #3, conversely, can only appreciate the beauty of the yellow leaves which, in his eyes, blanket the tree from top to bottom, left to right. So, our situation involves 3 different people, all looking at the same tree, but each seeing something different. This is exactly how truth works in our world. Truth is the tree. It is immovable, absolute and attainable. The problem with this tree of Truth is that we, as people, become so jaded in our world views, whether through our childhood, our upbringing, our relationships, our memories, etc...it is those variables which determines how we view Truth. It doesn't change Truth, just how we view it.

Our 3 people in the tree analogy each "see" a different colour of leaves...one sees red, another green, and another yellow. So what colour are the trees leaves actually?

I see 2 answers here. One which I like, and one which I do not.

1) Just as the tree has multiple colours of leaves, so does Truth have multiple layers of meaning. According to this explanantion, Truth is neither absolute nor unchangeing. Truth would become this crutch which everyone leans on to justify their actions, collectively or individually. A quick example.....human sacrifice. According to this answer, I cannot claim that human sacrifice is immoral or wrong or anything of the sorts. According to this answer, human sacrifice is totally kosher...human sacrifice is simply a different colour leaf on our tree. If that's what you see, then that's Truth, right? Absolutely not....this is what is called Neo-Paganism (thanks for the term, Rabbi Spiro). Neo-Paganism is the idea that there is no absolute Truth, no real right or wrong. Neo-Paganism is the acceptance of other people doing what they want, justifying it through "traditions" or the like, and us accepting that as unchangeing. What a crock! There are things in this world which are plainly wrong. There are no ifs ands or buts...it is just wrong, like human sacrifice. Therefore, this explanation can be thrown to the dogs...

2) The trees leaves are brown. Sure our 3 people each saw 3 other colours, but, given that Truth is indeed absolute, its colours are consistent throughout. So how do we explain how 3 different people saw 3 different colours? The answer to that, my friends, is the essence of Truth.

Truth is immovable. Absolute. It is our experiences and memories which deceive us as we grow, and we get tricked into thinking that the leaves are green or red or yellow, when, in fact, they have always been brown, are brown and will continue to only be brown. Our perceptions lie to us and make us see the colours, or, the "truth" we want to see...not the brown leaves that grow on its branches. These leaves, this Truth, is, therefore absolute. The consequences to this epiphany are severe...

If Truth is absolute, then it is logical to say that there also exists right and wrong, immoral and moral. As such, we can no longer hide behind the old adage of you do what you want, I'll do what I want. If we allow that to happen, our society would be plunged into an abyss of chaos, a veritable hell on earth. Anything and everything would be allowed, spoiling our civilisation. The poison pill would be planted (has been planted), and our acceptance of such will foster the seed, nourish it, until a time comes when we are surrounded by the fruits of this sad, desperate labour. We see this all around the world...and have been witnessing the downward spiral of our collective society for decades, even centuries. Conflicts grow, war seems easier than peace and life changes.

But.....

Then life happens. The good things.....friends having babies, getting married, travelling, experiencing true meaning in life. Things to value...things to cherish and celebrate. So how do we balance the cold, narrow-mindedness of truth with the warmth and happiness that life provides??

Well, if I knew that, more people would be reading this blog...

During these intermediate days between Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur, I extend my most sincerest apologies for having offended or hurt any and all of you. My friends have always been my family, and I thank Hashem for that blessing--for you--every day.

As we approach the New Year.....

2006-09-20T11:31:00.000-04:00

Friends, as we approach Rosh Hashanah this friday, it behooves us all to take some time and try and wrap our minds around our lives. Where have we been? Where are we now? And where do we want to go? It is the answers to these questions that will help us prop our lives into the limelight, and give us the clarity necessary to move forward to achieve our life goals, and, of course, try to bring ourselves closer to Hashem.

Yet, that's not enough. Our lives do not function within a vacuum. Our lives intersect with others, giving birth to relationships. We must examine these relationships as well. What kind of relationships do we have? Are they beneficial to both parties? Are they based on physicality, or spirituality? What purpose do they serve? You see, in this beautiful reality we find ourselves in, the consequences of our actions are meant to serve as the guide to our decisions. A good decision will yield a good result; a bad decision will yield a bad result. We must observe these results, learn from our bad decisions and mistakes, and pledge not to repeat them. For me, this is the essence of Rosh Hashanah.

Since my return from the Holy Land, this has become a daily routine. I have learnt that only through introspection can I improve my actions and bring myself closer to Hashem. And it is through this daily introspection that I have tagged my (numerous) faults, and I try to make a conscious choice to improve on them. For example, judging others. It used to be second nature. Someone walks by, and in my head, I have already scripted his life....what brought him here; what drives him; how he lives; Obviously, that's wrong. So, whenever I find my mind wandering in that direction I remember, 'judge not lest ye be judged'. Also, in Judaism, we believe that the way one judges others is the way the Almighty judges us on the day of our death. If we judge people favorably, Hashem extends us that same benefit. The flipside...well, you know the flipside.

And yet there's even more to our equation of introspection. Beyond ourselves and our relationships with others, we must all function within the boundaries and rules of society. Whether it's a call from muslim clerics to kill the Pope over comments associating violence to Islam (and the subsequent VIOLENT response), to heads of state calling for other states destruction, to kidnapping soldiers, to child warriors, to this 'culture of entitlement', to democracy v. dictatorship, to the decaying of "truth" from a goal to a means to an end, to human self-interest and state's self-interest, to the fallacy of human judgement, to the beauty of human empathy....all these things contribute to our own view of the world, and consequently, the way we behave in said world.

Rosh Hashanah is a gift from Hashem. Here, he's telling us that no matter what the previous year held, as long as we take stock, take help and take control of our lives, He will be there to help us and to guide us to wherever we want to go. That's His gift to us, but we need to earn it, it's not just given away. So please, my friends, sometime this week, sit down, take a pen and pad and draw up your life's plan. With dedication, an open heart and mind, and Hashem's help, there's nothing you cannot accomplish.

Take stock, take help, take control.

May we all be blessed this year with happiness, health and safety. No matter how far we fall, we have Hashem and our friends and family to pick us up. Remember that. Take solice in that. Understand that no matter what, we are not alone. We have each other...another of Hashem's many gifts. And this is the time of year to appreciate it.

L'Shana Tova U'Metuka!!!!!

RIP Croc Hunter, Steve Irwin

2006-09-04T10:38:00.000-04:00

Steve Irwin, famed "Crocodile Hunter", nature conservationist and all around great guy passed away yesterday at the tender age of 44. Let me just say that I am quite sad that Steve has passed so soon. His television shows were simply amazing. His ability to relate to his audience, all the while wrestling a poisonous snake in one hand and fending off a Grizzly Bear with the other, Steve's love for animals and all things wild was truly a gift.

Fortunately, Steve died doing what he loved....playing with really dangerous animals. As he was diving off the Great Barrier Reef in Australia, Steve began swimming with deadly Sting-rays. It should be noted that that in and of itself is nothing surprising----Steve always played with the most dangerous of animals. But this time, Steve got too close......the Sting-ray attacked Steve, stung him in the chest and made a hole in his heart. Hopefully, Steve did not suffer much.

Steve leaves behind a young family. His death is a tragedy to all those who loved and admired his work. I hope you'll join me in offering my condolences to the Irwin family. It is a sad day, today. Steve was one of the good guys. Someone able to use his podium to improve our society and the world in which we live. Let us take the example Steve left us and try to improve ourselves and those around us.

Steve Irwin. Father. Son. Croc Hunter. We will miss you.

Getting all caught up.....

2006-09-01T11:13:00.000-04:00

I know, it's been a while......I seem to say that a lot...

So what's new with Avi, you ask? Good question...

Politics- Status Quo Ante...the more things (seem to) change, the more they stay the same. Our brethren are still in the hands of the enemy, there is no resolution to the War in sight...People think that because CNN's headlines don't read "The Road to WWIII", all is quiet on the Mid-Eastern front. Well, it ain't. By the end of September, the IDF will be back in Lebanon, ontinued fighting in Gaza, and, G-d willing, we would have killed Nasrallah by then.
Oh, and I love Stephen Harper(pictured)...have I mentioned that lately?

Sports- Andre Agassi. Sure he's Persian, but what a story! I hate watching (men's) tennis, but this guy has appeal. I'm a fan. Hockey season's starting soon...yay!

Professional- School starts soon...this seems to be my last "summer" weekend. Man, that went by quickly.

That's pretty much it....spent all last week at 2 conferences, one for Hillel staff and one for the top leaders on campus. Both were pretty chill; a good way to get hyped for the upcoming year. But the best....absolute best....was getting to spend some quality time with Alana Kayfetz. For those who don't know who Alana is yet, you need not worry, she is the upcoming Hillel all-star. After an amazing activist career at Mac, Western has snagged her as their JCSC (Jewish something or other) fellow, which just means she's a Hillel director getting paid what a 17 year old at MacDonald's get payed (without the benefits). Alana is the future of Jewish professionals, and her dedication, creativity, motivation and charisma is the template from which Hillel would mint their staff (if they could).

I was very hesitant coming back as QH director this year, especially after my time at Aish. Fortunately, after spending some time with SuperYid Kayfetz, I feel better prepared to handle this year's stuff. Oh, and she's a hottie.....

So that's pretty much it for now....I miss and love you all. Special shout out to Avraham Chaim Jegher (aka Schwartzy) as well as Sydney Gelfer, one of my campers from 2 summers ago. She's coming to Queen's!!!! Yay!!!

Have a great Shabbos all.....coming next week, "Truth: subjective or absolute?"

Check this out!

2006-08-17T15:51:00.000-04:00

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Zw6lqle-Bq4

Denis Leary rips Mel Gibson during a Red Sox game!!!

Enjoy!!!

Am I missing something?

2006-08-17T13:51:00.000-04:00

So under the leadership of Olmert and Peretz, Israel invaded Lebanon with the expressed intent of rescuing 2 kidnapped IDF soldiers and pound Hezbollah into submission. As remaining IDF troops evacuate southern Lebanon (pictured), I ask myself, in over a month of fighting, did Israel achieve her goals?

I remember taking a philosophy class at Carleton around the time of the Iraq war outbreak. We discussed the absence of morality in any war, and studied what's called the "7 principles for a just war". You see, back when war was fought in nice geometrical positions, one needed to meet these 7 criteria for the war to be deemed "just". Not moral or immoral, as war is amoral.

In discussing the Iraq war, we used the principle of "expressed declaration". Meaning, if George W. said he invaded Iraq to destroy the WMD's but his true intention was to take all their oil, that would not meet said principle and the war would be deemed unjust. So using this current escalation between Israel and Hezbollah and applying it the the aforementioned principle, we can honestly state that this past violence was unjust. Hezbollah still operates and will remain armed (as we learnt today). Our IDF brethren still remain at the mercy of our enemies. The kicker in this instance is that 90% of the Israeli popualtion (lefties and doves included) were in favour of the war at the start of the conflict, and Peretz and Olmert were as popular as any Israeli politician has ever been. Today, a mere 2 weeks later, Peretz and Olmert's approval ratings have plummeted, and there doesn't seem to be any concrete, tangeable, positive consequences to this recent offensive. It's simply a return to the status quo.

And where are our 3 kidnapped soldiers?

Ever wonder about......

2006-08-09T11:33:00.000-04:00

I have chosen to refrain from commenting on the current violent emanations facing Israel and the West today. No mention of Hezbollah, Iran or Syria....no Olmert, Bush or Lahoud...no EU or UN or US or whatever.

Not that I won't comment, I just choose not to right now. What I will say, though, is that if you have a moment, visit youtube.com and search for Brigitte Gabriel (pictured above). You should be able to find her interview with Miles O'Brien on CNN. Watch it. I met Brigitte a few years back (we worked on a couple of Israel-related projects and speaking tours together), and I've been fortunate enough to keep in touch with her. Her story is incredible; Hezbollah threatened her life a few years back, and, apparently, since her interview, she has had her Lebanese citizenship revoked (not that she cares much, mind you). Her website is www.americancongressfortruth.com. But that's it about the War for now....

Changing topics....I have decided to move to Israel. The tentative date is June 1st, 2007. Now the plan is to learn at Aish for a while (like a year or two), then to take a step back and decide if I want to take my learning back to Canada, or if I want to stay in Israel for good. That's the plan.

What do Tracy Bonham, The Meat Puppets and Goldfinger all have in common?

Answer next week!

Kofi Annan

2006-07-20T11:52:00.000-04:00

As I sit here at my desk listening to his latest discourse on the Middle East, I am sure the founders of the UN are rolling in their graves. Y'know, the United Nations was borne out of the Second World War, based on the defunct League of Nations. Sidenote--Who was responsible for the League of Nations disbandment? Canada. Yup. We invoked Article 9 of the charter...read up on it, quite interesting. But I digress. Way back when, Churchill (UK PM) and Roosevelt set up the UN as a counterbalance to the Nazis and the axis of evil. How did one become a member? Only by declaring war against an axis power. Then, after the war, one needed to be a democracy to join the Gentleman's Club. Now? Any dictator and theocrat can pay the membership fee and hijack the Human Righrs Council to shit on Israel. I mean, really. Let's just change the name to the "Body Responsible for the Continued Mistreatment of, and Distribution of Propaganda against, any Jewish presence in the Middle East"....At least this way we wouldn't be confused as to the organization's goals and values are.

I want to share something with you all. This was emailed to me by my dad, so I will paste it below for your reading pleasure. It appeared recently in a Spanish newspaper, and this is a translation....

" ALL EUROPEAN LIFE DIED IN AUSCHWITZ"
By Sebastian Vilar Rodrigez(*)

I walked down the street in Barcelona, and suddenly discovered a terrible truth - Europe died in Auschwitz. We killed six million Jews and replaced them with 20 million Muslims. In Auschwitz we burned a culture, thought, creativity, talent. We destroyed the chosen people, truly chosen, because they produced great and wonderful people who changed the world.The contribution of this people is felt in all areas of life: science, art, international trade, and above all, as the conscience of the world. These are the people we burned. And under the pretense of tolerance, and because we wanted to prove to ourselves that we were cured of the disease of racism, we opened our gates to 20 million Muslims, who brought us stupidity and ignorance, religious extremism and lack of tolerance, crime and poverty due to an unwillingness to work and support their families with pride.They have turned our beautiful Spanish cities into the third world, drowning in filth and crime. Shut up in the apartments they receive free from the government, they plan the murder and destruction of their naive hosts. And thus, in our misery, we have exchanged culture for fanatical hatred, creative skill for destructive skill, intelligence for backwardness and superstition. We have exchanged the pursuit of peace of the Jews of Europe and their talent for hoping for a better future for their children, their determined clinging to life because life is holy, for those who pursue death, for people consumed by the desire for death for themselves and others, for our children and theirs.What a terrible mistake was made by miserable Europe.***********************************

As I've said before, I will ask again...
What side are YOU on?

"On the brink of war..."

2006-07-17T14:07:00.000-04:00

How silly is that...."on the brink of war"? That's CNN's tagline as they cover this increase in violence in Israel and the Middle East. On the brink? Where have these people been since '48? This is the same war....the Terror War.

As such, the IDF continues to demonstrate efficiency, efficacity, professionalism and courage in the face of our enemies. Their steadfast dedication to the Jewish State is to be commended; their sacrifice is the ultimate sacrifice one can make for one's values. Their continued kiddush Hashem is the epitomy of what it means to sanctify and honour G-d's almighty name. I hope that you, dear reader, will join me in wishing them speed and success, health and prosperity now and all time.

PM Olmert addressed the knesset today. His eloquence and strength truly transcended the words he used to describe the unity the Israeli people have shown; their determination to withstand terror; and their drive towards a true and lasting peace in the region. Olmert, and the entire knesset with him, speak for the hearts and minds of Israelis and Jews the world over. We will not allow the terrorists to win. We will not allow our beauiful land- land which we've worked and toiled for over a century- to be taken by these animals who only wish to destroy everything we have built. We will not allow the light of hope to be extinguished. We will not allow the terrorists who have taken our brethren to escape unscathed. The true might of the IDF and the grandeur of our little country at the heart of the world will, again, rise above the disdain and hate perpetrated against us by those who wish our destruction.

Israel and her supporters will continue to dictate the moral terms of the region. We will continue to build our state in the image of G-d, and our actions will represent that image. I am completely faithful to the path that Hashem has put us on...it is this path that will lead us to ultimate salvation. It is this path that will allow Jews to live free from fear of anti-Semitism; and will allow Israel to prosper.

The sooner the terrorists realize this, the sooner we can all move forward. They can try to push us to the sea all they want, they will learn that we do not swim. This land is ours, and we are here to stay.

Back to action....

2006-07-14T11:32:00.000-04:00

Sorry friends, it's been a while....and it seems reality has caught up with us.

Reflecting on my short 6 week visit to Israel has opened my eyes to many things. I learnt a lot about myself this summer, and I look forward to continuing on this journey towards spiritual enlightenment.

Life was fulfilling in Israel. There was purpose. There was meaning. There was an actual, tangeable connection to G-d....very tough to explain. But I felt it. I lived it. Now, the challenge (nisayon) is to strive for that continued kind of relationship with the Almighty. Will it be difficult? Of course. Impossible? No way....this is the meaning of my existence and, as such, is logically plausible, no matter how difficult.

Sports.....Italy beat France (good...we hate the French), the Habs re-tooled (go Samsonov), and the Apocalypse is around the corner.....(I'm only half kidding).

Among the many new things I learnt at Aish was the idea of Messianic and pre-Messianic times. The pre-Messianic times will bring about that proverbial line in the sand....the CHOICE to choose between right and wrong; good and evil. The ongoing crisis in Israel dictates that such a time has, indeed, come. We must choose sides...For those who read what I write often, (that's you, Ma), then you know I could say "I told you so".....This has been my opinion for years....we have embarked on a downward spiral that is WAR and the fruits to bare will be pain, fear and terror. But we make War with enemies, not friends....

I am proud of the Canadian government for once again standing side by side with Israel and her right to protect her citizens. I knew things would improve on the homefront with our foreign policy, but the Conservatives have done such an exemplary job. I'm quite proud.

It's not enough. We have 3 kidnapped soldiers. We have thousands of residents sleeping in bomb shelters. We have millions who are sick and tired of this. Sick and tired of worrying whether their children will return home form school safely.

We left Lebanon. Gave Gaza away...for nothing. What's left? What else do our enemies want? What else are we willing to give away?

The most basic question one can ask regarding the ongoing Terror War; the one question who's answer dictates what side of the divide you stand....Do our enemies really and truly want to make a lasting peace with us? If you answer yes, then the sacrifices will continue. We will continue to give away land, economy, etc...on the hope, nay, the mere whisper of 'peace'. But if you answer no, then we must ask, what are our intentions? If peace is a by-product of Western media and unattainable, how do we defeat our enemies? What about the international community? Should we even care about the UN rebukes? The Security Council resolutions? Either we're all-in, right here, right now, or we fold. That's how grave the situation is that we face today. Either we're in it to win it, or we cut our losses.

Olmert et al. have continued to disappoint me. They have no idea what they're doing. We need leaders who are resolute. Who assess the situation, provide a solution, and work towards that solution with their blinders on. What I have seen so far would make Paul MArtin, aka Mr. Dithers, proud.

Finally, it is the people who suffer from their governments inability to pursue either peace or terrorists with any efficiency at all. The time has come for our leaders to answer to their decisions.

Have a great Shabbos, everyone, and the new week will bring more talk about Israel's political future, the kidnapped soldiers, and the last days of Hizbullah as we know it. May G-d continue to bless the Jewish people, the IDF and all our brothers and sisters who share in our countries future. Amen.

Quotes of the day...

2006-06-20T15:26:00.000-04:00

Regarding the recent arrest of homegrown terrorists in Toronto, Mark Kelly of the Canadian Broadcasting Corp. wondered, "Maybe multiculturalism is just a nice idea for people who haven't been bombed yet."

"The only thing necessary for the triumph of evil is.....for good men to do nothing."
-Edmund Burke

This Week's sign the apocalypse is upon us...

2006-06-19T16:35:00.000-04:00

Did Paris Hilton score with NHL goalie?

John Kennedy, canada.com
Published: Monday, June 19, 2006

Paris Hilton swears she’s not looking for love – but did she find a little bit of lovin’ in Toronto?
The actress/singer seemed quite taken by Colorado Avalanche goalie Jose Theodore at a party following the MuchMusic Video Awards.
Witnesses say Hilton, 25, chatted with Theodore, a 29-year-old native of Laval, Quebec, at the Courthouse in Toronto before leaving together. The pair showed up at another club and partied until the wee hours of the morning.
“They were clearly into each other,” reports an eyewitness.
Earlier in the evening, Hilton said she was relishing the single life.“I’m single and I love it,” she said. “This is the first time that I haven’t had a boyfriend so I’m having so much fun just getting to know myself and just focusing more on my career.”

Lessons from World Cup 2006

2006-06-18T02:15:00.000-04:00

Shavua Tov!

The Edmonton Oilers are pushing towards a deciding game 7!

Absolutely amazing! Let's bring the Cup home where she belongs....in the frigid Winter that is Canadia!!!

Lesson #1......

http://www.haaretz.com/hasen/spages/727910.html
Check out the above link...a Ghanan soccer player at World Cup in Germany whips out an ISRAELI FLAG after a teammate scores a goal! The Ghanan player, John Pentsil, plays for Hapoel Tel Aviv and obviously has great pride in his team and the nation where he plays. I got chills when I first saw this pic....absolutely amazing!

Lesson #2......

http://www.jpost.com/servlet/Satellite?cid=1150355512336&pagename=JPost%2FJPArticle%2FShowFull

Once again, Germans protested Iran at the World Cup today. Check out the link for a great pic equating Ahmedinejad to Hitler.

Just goes to show all the life lessons sports has to teach us. Good luck to the Oilers in game 7 monday night...my money's on Pisani, an Edmonton native, scoring the winning goal. Get ready to celebrate!!!

Avi's crisis of being

2006-06-14T09:11:00.000-04:00

1. I believe, without any doubts, in Hashem, as the one G-d that created the Universe and that created me.
2. I believe, without any doubts, that Hashem gave the Torah to the Jewish people on Har Sinai.
3. I believe, without any doubts, that the Torah is the blueprint for life.
4. I believe, without any doubts, that the purpose of life is to get as close to Hashem as possible; to strive to know Hashem.
5. I believe, without any doubts, that the ultimate way to accomplish this is through the study of Torah.

All this being said, why would I go home?
How can I know what I know and still choose to return home?
Assuming I want to get as close to Hashem as possible, (which I do as I believe it to be my purpose) and I know the best way is to stay and learn in Yeshiva, how can I possibly go home?
How can I return to the Diaspora?
How can I even be thinking about going home?

I try to justify to myself that I will slowly become more scholarly back home, and then come to the point where I will return to Israel to study. But, will I have another chance? Is this the one, true opportunity for me to see with absolute clarity my purpose? Will I get another shot? What sort of mental state will I be in in the future? Will it allow me the clarity I feel today?

I don't want to go home. I want to stay in Yeshiva to fulfill my purpose. If not, how will I answer Hashem on that day when I am judged? How will I explain my choices, when I know what I know....and I know it to be true?

Poetry?

2006-06-12T08:05:00.000-04:00

Yup, that's right..poetry. So for the last week I've been trying to post a poem that I really enjoy on my sidebar, under the archives. But, being that I have no computer literacy skills whatsoever, it proved futile and fruitless. So I took the easy way out. You might notice a new link; Avi's Poetic Adventures. It's a new blog I started, where I will be posting works of literature that I find intriguing and inspiring. While I will not be updating it as frequently as I do this one, I thought I'd mention it should anyone want to visit it.

More blogging to come.....

One dimensional

2006-06-11T06:57:00.006-04:00

Friends, in an effort to show that my worldly opinions are not solely dependant on Israel and Judaism, I will now only comment on Israel every second post. This way, I can share with you my other worldly interests and commentary. While I could invariably speak volumes about Israel today (Hamas ends truce; continued Qassam missiles hitting Sderot; American Jew abducted and subsequently released in Nablus; Gaza beach disaster; continued Hamas/Fatah hostilities; increased terror alert), I will refrain. After all, tomorrow's another day...

First item....hockey. With their backs firmly against the proverbial wall, the Oilers managed to squeak out a 2-1 win last night. Jussi Markannen made 24 saves for the win, and the Oilers are playing Oiler hockey once again. My head still says the 'Canes will sip from Lord Stanley's Cup, but my heart says it's Oiler destiny. Oilers in 7.

Second item....Alanis Morrisette has broken up with her boyfriend/fiancee of 4 years, Ryan Reynolds (Van Wilder). All I can say is YAY! She can do much better. Like me, for instance.

Third item...This one is serious.

http://www.canada.com/topics/news/national/story.html?id
=7c2a27a4-542f-4f31-8d56-a1202bf80fe4&k=82471

Here's the link to the article. I was sickened when I read it. Especially as my grandparents played such a huge role in my formative years as a child, I find it hard to believe the actions these grandparents took. Anways, read the article; I warn you though, it's quite disturbing...

Finally, today marks 2 weeks left in my unbelievable, awe-inspiring, spiritually enriching stay at Yeshivat Aish Hatorah. I cannot believe how quickly time has gone by. Only 2 weeks left for everyone to convince me to stay. I am seriously thinking about it, but the only REAL things holding me back are my responsibilities and commitments back in Canada, and Bubby. Otherwise, I'd never leave. Who ever does want to leave home?

Shavua Tov....

Satan's new additions....

2006-06-09T05:33:00.000-04:00

Satan is welcoming 2 new additions to his domain today; Abu Musab al-Zarqawi (pictured), leader of Al-Qaeda in Iraq, and Jamal Abu Samhadana, leader of the Palestinian Resistance Committee, director general of Hamas' Interior Ministry, and Number 2 on Israel's most wanted list.

This is a great victory for the resistance against worldwide terror. These 2 separate acts show that the intelligence world is catching up to the terrorists; an optimisitic view that sooner or later, all those who support the murder of innocents will meet their maker, at the hands of those who value liberty and freedom.

We must continue to support the US, the Iraqi government and the IDF, and all those who espouse the view that our civilisation is responsible to root out these weeds and send them straight to hell. We must keep the proverbial pressure on; forcing these animals out of the woodwork so we can destroy them, their infrastructure, and their popular support.

As we enter the holy day of Shabbos, let us be thankful thank there are 2 less threats to our ideals, beliefs and values. Let us thank Hashem for taking these 2 from our midst, thus making our lives a little bit safer. Let us pray that the IDF et al. will renew their strength and courage to finish the job that has begun. No more political correctness. No more pacifying those who wish to murder us. Let us all have the strength to shape this world in the image of Hashem; an image of peace, courage and of G-dliness.

Let us also remember those who have fallen at the hands of these terrorists. May their souls in Heaven find a measure of peace, and may the families still here, on Earth, rejoice, as those responsible fry for all eternity in the flames of hell.

TA overnight...

2006-06-08T03:40:00.000-04:00

So I went to Tel Aviv last night to spend some time with Joelle. She's doing really well, working as an engineer for some company.....(to me it sounds quite boring, but Jo's happy!!!)

I must mention the superb parking job she pulled off. I did not think that any vehicle could fit in the space, let alone a bicycle, but Jo put her in as well as the Hurricanes put the puck in the net against the Oilers and Jussi Markannen last night (Oilers lost 5-0).

Next we went for dinner at China Lee, a delicious, kosher Chinese food restaurant not too far from the beach. The food was delicious. The company, amazing. There's nothing like reminiscing about the "good old days"....Sure, it's a little sad, but it was great! It was also crazy expensive.

After that went back to Jo's and I actually got to watch some telly.....some Israeli soap opera (yawn), but then I watched ESPN Sportscenter! It was a welcome change to surfing the web for my sports updates. And that was it. Woke up early, hopped on a sheirut and now I'm back in the Old City.....class in 25 minutes!

So that was my first time out of Jerusalem this trip, and I could totally tell a difference right away. The people, the atmosphere, the whole aura of the place was different. That, and the stench of moral decay permeated throughout the city.....just kidding. Not really. Anyhoo, I'm glad to be back "home".

The "Peace Plan"

2006-06-06T12:57:00.000-04:00

Okay, so before I go off on this proposal and on the media, I urge you first and foremost to read the document and not just take my word for it.

You can find the document at.......
http://www.jmcc.org/documents/prisoners.htm

Excellent. Are we ready? Great. First a little sidenote...
My personal entry/forray into the world of international politics was actually expedited by one of the authors of this plan, Marwan Barghouti (pictured top left). The first letter to the editor I ever wrote was in response to an article that portrayed this terrorist (presently in jail serving 5 life sentences for spilling innocent Jewish blood) as a "moderate" and "militant". Ha.

Anyhoo....seems like me and Marwan have come full circle...me in Jerusalem, him rotting behind bars.

To the matter at hand. The media (New York Times, Daily Telegraph, Washington Post, CNN, Boston Globe, BBC, etc...) has portrayed this proposal as a breakthrough for the prospects of peace in the Middle East. They claim this proposal as a "co-existence plan" with a Palestinian state living alongside Israel, pre-1967 borders with East Jerusalem as the capital, and acceptance of the State of Israel. Did these "journalists" even read this plan?

The first thing I noticed was the document's title...."National Conciliation Document of the Prisoners", May 11, 2006. Fine. Next thing I noticed was that the State of Israel is not even mentioned in the entire document! That, coupled with the title, proves beyond a shadow of a doubt that this plan is an internal document; one meant to strengthen the Palestinian leadership (read Hamas v. Fatah civil war) in order to fully concentrate on their goal of "self-determination" and "full sovereignty" (read throw the Jews to the sea & eliminate the Zionist state from the map). They also call on the Arab world to fully back the Palestinians in their efforts to "resist occupation" (read continued terrorism aimed at Israeli civilians) and implement Arab summit decisions vis-a-vis the Palestinians. Summary: The document says let's get our shit together at home so we can unite and kill the Jews. Peace Plan? Please....

Now let's get a little more specific....

The Israeli government, from 1948, no matter who leads the government, has unequivocally stated that we will not accept the claim of the "Right of Return". It would spell the end to the beautiful experiment that is Israeli democracy. It would kill the Jewish character and nature of Israel. IT WILL NOT HAPPEN. So....how many times does the document mention the "Right of Return"? 6 times...(opening paragraph, last line; point 1, second line; point 1, fourth to last line; point 4, third to last line; point 9, fourth line; point 9, second to last line). 6 times!

Point 1 of the document---"liberate the land" (read kill the Jews)
Point 2 of the document---"...joining of Hamas and Islamic Jihad to the PLO..." (read "Terrorists All-Star Group")
Point 3 of the document---"the right of the Palestinian people in resistance and clinging to the option of resistance with the various means..." Hello? They are stating plainly they still want the Jews dead!!! Hello?
Point 4 of the document---"...and to present best possible care for the sectors that carried the burden of steadfastness and resistance and the Intifada and who were the victims of the Israeli criminal aggression, especially the families of the martyrs, prisoners and injured ..." OK, I just threw up. Seriously. How disgusting is this? Glorifying the vileness of suicide bombers, justifying the slaughter of children because they were Jewish?
Point 5 of the document---"To liberate the prisoners and detainees" precedes the "need to double efforts to support and care for the refugees"....interesting, no? Hmmmm, who wrote the document? The prisoners. Whose rights come first? The prisoners. Hmmm. Funny how the refugee issue is at the fore when it comes to Israeli responsibility, but when it's about the internal Palestinian hierarchy of needs and demands, no one cares. Israel cares more about the refugees than the Palestinians do!!!! Anyways, I can bitch about the Arab/Palestinian hypocracy all day.
Point 6 of the document---"to work on forming a unified resistance front under the name "Palestinian resistance front" to lead and engage in resistance against the occupation..." Right, that's what we need, terror built on terror built on terror.

Paragraph 16 states:..."maintain security and public order and implement the laws and end the state of chaos and security chaos and end the forms of public armed presence and parades and confiscation of the chaotic weapons that harm the resistance and distort its image and that threaten the unity of the Palestinian society and the need to coordinate and organize the relation with the forces of resistance and organize and protect their weapons."

This is the entire document in a nutshell. It's saying: "Let's stop killing each other and ruining this David v Goliath image we've worked so hard to maintain. Let's get together and kill the Jews once and for all. Why waste bullets on each other when there are Jews to blow up?"

Sickening.

Obviously, if put a referendum, the Palestinian people will overwhelmingly vote in favour of it. Kill the Jews; Palestinian State; end to internal chaos;etc, etc, etc. Hell, if I was Palestinian, I would vote for it! So what's the problem?

The problem is that the world, because of the media, will actually see this as a step forward on behalf of the Palestinians. Because of the way this document has been portrayed, people actually believe it's a "Peace Plan." Most people are either too ignorant or too stupid to read it for themselves, so they rely on the media to inform them. In this case, as many others, the media is dead wrong! They are perpetuating the problem instead of helping alleviate it. If the Palestinians were smart, they'd take advantage of this HUGE opportunity. But, like every other time in history, they won't. Thank Hashem.

Still, it is incumbent on us, defenders of Judaism and the State of Israel, to set the record straight. Write letters to your local newspapers, inform your friends and co-workers, support those who stand up for what we all believe in, and, most importantly, pray to Hashem that He will help guide us through yet another round of putrid Palestinian propaganda.

Ok then.....nobody's perfect!

2006-06-06T02:21:00.000-04:00

24 hours ago, all seemed right in the sports world....today, reality set in.

Shahar Peer, Israeli tennis teen sensation, bowed out of the fourth round of the French Open, losing a tough 3 set match to former tennis queen Martina Hingis. This marks the furthest an Israeli woman has survived in a Grand Slam event, the last being Anna Smashnova in 1998. Who eliminated Smashnova 8 years ago? Martina Hingis....

And yet I am still quite proud of Peer's performance, and my expectations for her career are high. We will hear of her again, and she will, eventually, win a Grand Slam. Yasher Koach, Shahar!!!

Now to hockey....Oilers blew a 3-0 lead last night, and even worse, Dwayne Roloson suffered a season ending knee injury with 6 minutes to go in the game (picture above). Roloson, picked up at the trade deadline by savvy GM MacTavish, was the difference maker for the Oilers this postseason. Now, with backup Ty Conklin in nets, it seems the Carolina Hurricanes are in excellent position to win their first Stanley Cup in the franchise's history.

With role players like Recchi and Weight (picked up at the trade deadline), and the off season signing of defending Cup champ Cory Stillman, coupled with the excellent play of rookie netminder Cam Ward, it seems only a matter of time before Rod Brindamour and company hoist Lord Stanley's Cup. While I have a deep disdain for the club (they knocked out the Habs after going down 2-0), it just goes to show that the best teams win the championship, not the teams with the best players.

While nothing in hockey is a guarantee, look for the 'Canes to take care of business promptly.

And even if the Oilers get swept(not gonna happen, but even if they do), they still had an amazing run, and lots to look forward to for next year. The front office in Edmonton always claimed that they would succeed under a salary cap system; a system that "leveled the playing field", and their continued success has proved themselves right. Good on them...and good on the "New NHL"!!!

Later, I will comment on this proposed "Peace Plan" (authored by terrorists like Marwan Barghouti) that the media has grasped as the last chance for an end to the conflict in Israel. While at face value it seems like a nice plan, anyone who actually reads it will know how wrong that assumption is.....but I'll leave that to later.

Left in the dark....

2006-06-05T02:33:00.000-04:00

Yesterday's blog was a lil' heavy, so this one will be light.....

Shahar Peer, (right)Israeli tennis teen sensation, is quickly becoming a beacon of hope in this country. Last night she faced former world #1 and queen of female tennis, Martina Hingis. Hingis, who retired a few years back due to foot and ankle injuries, has picked up her play of late, trying to regain her former glorious Grand Slam form. Peer got off to a slow start, dropping the first set to Hingis 6-3. It was the first set she has lost all tournament. But, like most young prodigies facing their idols, chalk it up to inexperience. The second set was a different story as Peer manhandled Hingis with her aggressive play and took set 2 by a count of 6-2. Hingis, the savvy veteran she is, complained to the chair umpire of the pending darkness, and play was suspended. The 2 stars pick up where they left off today, with the winner facing Kim Clijsters on Tuesday.

I believe Peer will prevail. She will face Clijsters in the quarter-finals, marking the furthest any Israeli female tennis player has advanced at any of the 4 Grand Slams. And even if I am wrong, her showing at the French Open has catapulted her into the top 20, and she has a brilliant career ahead of her. I just hope this French Open will be her coming out party to the tennis world; with her bringing the trophy back to Israel.

Hockey. I love it. I miss it. Probably the number 1 thing I miss most about not being home is that I cannot watch the Stanley Cup Finals (again....for like the 4th year in a row). Don't get me wrong, I love Israel (minus the mosquitos that seem to cross-breed with rhinos and subject me and my lily white skin to non-stop itching and pain)....... but I also love hockey.

That being said, Go Oilers Go!!! My prediction is a tough, 6 game series, with the good guys prevailing. Conn Smythe will go to Dwayne Roloson(pictured above), who will literally stand on his head and bring the Cup home to Canada.

My Canada includes Jerusalem

2006-06-04T06:44:00.000-04:00

What a weekend!!! CUPE decides to "boycott" Israel, and our RCMP arrests 17 people in relation to planned terror attacks on Canadian soil (names of those arrested listed below). What struck me right away was that 2 of the arrested terrorists (yes, they are terrorists, not freedom fighters or militants) are from my adopted hometown of Kingston. Kind of makes the saying "I feel safer in Israel than back home" ring truer than ever.

My first reaction when I heard about the arrests was..."wow....". My second reaction, once I thought about it for a moment, was...."wow....I'm surprised this hasn't happened already...".

If you remember the travesty that was 9/11 as vividly as I do, you will recall Bin Laden declaring open jihad against the 5 "Christian" countries; USA, Australia, Spain, UK and Canada. It is no wonder that terrorists were planning attacks on Canadian soil, the only thing to wonder about is why they took so long to get here after the success they achieved in the other 4 countries?

These terrorists that were arrested are all "homegrown", which makes this scenario far scarier than if they came for Middle Eastern countries. If that was the case, it would be much easier to shrug our shoulders and say "these guys really don't represent any Canadians...they simply had Canada as a target". But now, as all 17 were Canadian residents and citizens, the illusion of Canada as a haven from these types of things has been shattered. Our multi-culturalist culture has allowed this disease to fester and grow unchecked. Mosques are breeding grounds for hate and prejudice....and now we know our mosques are not immune to that disease.

Canada is a target. Canadians planned the attacks. We have terrorists living within our midst.

Flashback to 1970. FLQ crisis. Politician Laporte kidnapped. PM Trudeau declares Martial Law. Terrorists kill Laporte. Using this as a precedent, what should our response be?

Well, let's see. As Canadians, our first collective instinct will tell us that not all Muslims are terrorists and we shouldn't punish the Muslim community because of a few rogue Islamists.

Let's ponder that for a moment.....

Take a look at the names below...all Muslim. Who should we putting pressure on? The Sikh community? Maybe the Asian community? COME ON, PEOPLE!!!! WAKE UP!!!! We must put pressure on the Muslim community to stop this disease of jihadism and Islamism from claiming innocent Canadian lives!!! Screw political correctness! Lives are at stake and we are not immune!! No more excuses!!! Do what needs to be done in order to protect Canadians civilians from the monsters that live next door.

I've said this dozens of times with regards to Israeli domestic policy, and it saddens me that the day has come that I can now say it with regards to my own safety and security in Kingston, or Montreal, or Ottawa, or Toronto.....The number one responsibility our government has to her citizens is to protect us from elements that seek our destruction. That is Political Philosophy 101. It is simple. I expect my government to protect me. Fortunately, the RCMP and collective intelligence agencies have done just that. And I am proud of them and their willingness to ensure that safety. Kudos to you all, a job well done. But it's also a job that is not finished. How many sleeper cells are there in Canada? How has our lax (and liberal/Liberal) immigration policies contributed to the rise of jihadism and Islamism within our borders? What needs to be done to quash these terrorists before they are succesful?

We must answer these questions honestly, without fear of labels, political correctness or typical Canadian apathy.

Remember the Oklahoma City bombing in 1995? A truck bomb was used to blow up a fedral building, killing 168 people, using one tonne of ammonium nitrate. The Canadian terrorists captured over the weekend obtained three times that amount! A full 3 tonnes of ammonium nitrate. Who knows how many attacks they were planning? Who knows the devastation that would have been caused had our intelligence forces not uncovered this heinous plot in time? Just thinking about it makes me sick. If Canadians need to actually feel the devastation of a successful terror attack to finally understand what Israel and her citizens go through on an almost daily basis, today is a very sad day. We were lucky. We were fortunate. But what if we weren't?

Juxtapose that with the decision of CUPE to "boycott" Israel. How stupid are these people? You know, it wasn't too long ago that the political left was ideological and practical in its ideology. It worried about human rights abuses, the environment....things that mattered. But what does this move by CUPE demonstrate? Not solidarity with the "poor Palestinians". Not any positive ideological, philosophical or socialist ideal. It is simple Anti-Semitism. They hate Jews. Therefore, they hate the Jewish State. And that's what Israel is, the Jewish State. Built by Jews from nothing. Sustained by Jews during almost 60 years of ongoing war. It will always be a Jewish State. Why? Because of people like you and me who know what we live for, and what we are willing to die for.

My message to Canada is welcome to the jihadist 21st century. This is not the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. It's not even the Arab-Israeli conflict. This is a war between 2 ideologies...one which loves and covets life, the other which destroys it. One which espouses the ideals of democracy and freedom, the other, disgusted by liberty and justice. One which holds that are men are created equal, under G-d, the other who's sole purpose is to convert the world to its disastrous beliefs. I've written it before, and I write it again....

What side are YOU on?

Please, my friends, consider this question carefully. It is of the utmost importance. Our future, and our children's future, depends on our reaction to this disease. Cure it now and save the country......or else we have no one to blame but ourselves when we fail to learn from the past.

Names of terrorists arrested:
List of those arrested Canadian Press Published:
Saturday, June 03, 2006
TORONTO -- A list of the adults arrested and charged with offences under the Criminal Code of Canada. Five youths, who cannot be named, were also charged:

1. Fahim Ahmad, 21, Toronto; 2. Zakaria Amara, 20, Mississauga, Ont.; 3. Asad Ansari, 21, Mississauga; 4. Shareef Abdelhaleen, 30, Mississauga; 5. Qayyum Abdul Jamal, 43, Mississauga; 6. Mohammed Dirie, 22, Kingston, Ont.; 7. Yasim Abdi Mohamed, 24, Kingston; 8. Jahmaal James, 23, Toronto; 9. Amin Mohamed Durrani, 19, Toronto; 10. Steven Vikash Chand alias Abdul Shakur, 25, Toronto; 11. Ahmad Mustafa Ghany, 21, Mississauga; 12. Saad Khalid, 19, of Eclipse Avenue, Mississauga.

Shahar Peer update

2006-06-03T15:18:00.000-04:00

PEER WINS: Shahar Peer upset 2004 French Open runner-up Elena Dementieva of Russia 6-4, 7-5 Saturday to become the first Israeli woman to reach the fourth round of a Grand Slam tournament since 1998.
''We have maybe four clay courts in Israel,'' the 19-year-old Peer said. ''The rest is just hard courts. But I think the way I play and the way I move, I can improve and play better and better on clay.''
She'll face five-time Grand Slam champion Martina Hingis of Switzerland for a quarter-final berth.

Keep it up, Shahar!!!

Tomorrow I will comment on the foiled terror attacks in Ontario, the CUPE boycott of Israel, and the connection between both events....charity versus tzedaka will have to wait......

Shavua Tov!!!

Happy Birthday Ma!!!!

2006-06-01T08:12:00.000-04:00

May this year bring you all the blessings Hashem can grant. May it be a year of great health, happiness and good fortune.

May we all be fortunate enough to have this year be our best, for ourselves and our brothers and sisters in Israel.

Chag Sameach....And remember those 2 little words that granted the Jewish people the honour to inherit the Torah and be deemed G-d's chosen people...

Na'aseh V'Nishma!!!

My second love.....

2006-05-31T02:20:00.000-04:00

After Israeli politics and Judaism, is, of course, sports.

The French Open is ongoing, the first round being complete. An Israeli woman, Shahar Peer, ranked #31 in the tournament, easily defeated her opponent, Olga Savchuk, 6-1, 6-1.

Why do I mention ms. Peer?

Well, she has won 3 tournaments already this year (Istanbul Cup, Pattaya Open and ECM Prague Open). While she is still a dark horse to do some damage in Paris, I have this sneaking suspicion that this tournament will be her graduation into the top echelon that is women's tennis.

As the Israeli national soccer team was a mere point from qualifying for the World Cup in Germany this month, coupled with Peer's and Anna Smashnova's resurgence in women's tennis, is a great sign that Israelis are preparing to make their mark on the international sports scene.

How important is this to Israel? Not so much, in my (sometimes) humble opinion. It is even more important to the international world. As our fellow countries begin to realize that Israelis are taking sports seriously (Gal Friedman last summer Olympics; Macabbi Tel Aviv basketball, etc...) it provides the best platform for Israel advocacy.

While Israel, and the region, is constantly being portrayed as a war-torn area of the world, Israelis are proving to themselves and to the rest of the world that they are ready to make their mark.

So, Behatzlach Rabba Peer and Smashnova.......bring the trophy home!!!!

Sneak peek.....next blog will discuss the difference between charity and tzedaka.

2006-05-29T01:59:00.000-04:00

Here's an oldie.....

Me, Jess and Esther at Terabin during the NJCL trip, summer 2004.

The Schwartz's love the Apters.......

A little less conversation, a little more action

2006-05-28T09:32:00.000-04:00

So before I explain my reference to Elvis, allow me to tell my parents that I am alive and well; breathing and learning. I know I don't call home (ever), but like I say, that just means I am having a very good time. So, dear family and friends, know I am well.

I spent this last Shabbos with the Stenge clan (Mott, Sara, Yehuda Tzvi, Shoo, cousin Erin) and Esther in Ramot Bet. It was great. Wanna hear something crazy? I didn't smoke. That's right. I totally kept Shabbos. And for that I am pretty proud. Sure I totally sucked one down after Shgiya like nobody's business, but that's not the point. Point is, this past Shabbos was spiritually, as well as physically (Sara's cooking.....yum) fulfilling.

Elvis. Singer, entertainer, lyricist. He affected a lot of people, but the heading for this entry is what I know of him. And what better way to define the West's (in)action concerning the growing international crisis that is terrorism.

If I look at today, May 28th, 2006 in a vacuum, I would feel pretty darn good. The conservative movement is gaining worldwide....George W Bush, Angela Merkhel, Stephen Harper, etc...But when put into context, I start to worry about our society post 2008...and here's why......

Democracy v. theocracy/dictatorship.

In a democratic country, leaders are not only accountable to their citizens for their actions and policy, they are subject to their whims. So, even if a leader is truly a great leader, chances are, his term as leader will be limited. Whether by constitution or simply growing voter apathy when things are good, in a democracy, leaders time are quite finite and short. In a theocracy/dictatorship, it is the reverse. It is almost impossible to remove a leader, even if he runs his country into the ground. This is also the difference between a Free Society and a Fear Society (coined by Natan Sharansky.....The Case For Democracy, 2004).

What does this mean for us?

Well, it means that when W's run is done, whomever is elected in his stead (Clinton, McCain, etc...) will definitely take a softer, more diplomatic approach to the issue of international terrorism. But who will be leading Iran? Syria? PA? The same old guard, bent on Islamic world domination; subjugation of minorities and women's rights; destruction of freedoms and injecting the world with anarchic cancer. Who will answer the call then? Who will stymie these nutballs when our present leaders are gone?

Who knows.....

I heard a very interesting idea in class today. Something that all Canadians will understand.

Multi-culturalism.

You know what multi-culturalism really is? It's neo-paganism. Allow me to explain....

Paganism was the belief that ethics (from the Greek ethos...meaning customs) was the primary focus of the definition of right and wrong. Meaning that there was no absolute right or wrong. A great example is infanticide. The great Greek philosopher Aristotle argued that infanticide is necessary for numerous reasons, one being a form of population control. This is what the world was until the Jews came and explained the idea that no, Right and Wrong, Morality, is absolute. It is unquestionable. It is not for us to determine. Today, no one questions the fact that infanticide is a gross miscarriage of injustice and plain old wrong.

Multi-culturalism states that who are we, the West, to push our own values, morals and ethics on others? The Western world has adopted much of the Jewish views on these issues, and we are all better for it. But now, in today's age of political correctness, we have begun to revert back to those Pagan days of yore. We now say...."Oh, if that's your custom, who am I to question it?"

How stupid have we become?

Truth is absolute. Morality is absolute.

For us to dilude this idea is paramount to taking a giant leap back in history. Killing babies is wrong. Targeting civilians is wrong. Declaring a state, and people, should be wiped off the map is wrong. How much further will we take this neo-liberalism down the path towards chaos? How much longer before we take a step back and realize this is not how humanity is supposed to function? How many more words will fall on deaf ears before the unwilling are willed into action?

Take heed, my friends. Society is changing and not for the better. Our lives continue to reflect this change, and our souls suffer for it. Please....find a cause you believe in and fight for it. Nothing in this world is worthwhile unless you are willing to stand up for it.

Aish Hatorah Rosh Yeshiva Weinberg says:
"You can't start living until you know what you would be willing to die for...."

I can't say it any better than that.

The beginning of the end...again

2006-05-25T15:15:00.000-04:00

Israel agrees on arms transfer to Abbas' presidential guard

By Amos Harel, Haaretz Correspondent, and News Agencies

Prime Minister Ehud Olmert and Defense Minister Amir Peretz accepted recommendations from defense officials to allow for the transfer a limited amount of weapons and ammunition to the Palestinian Authority's presidential guard in light of growing threats to Chairman Mahmoud Abbas' life.Olmert and Peretz reached the decision prior to the prime minister's departure for the United States earlier this week, Channel 2 reported Thursday.Senior defense sources said Thursday that the arms will be delivered to the guard by way of a third-party state (all indications are either Egypt or Jordan) solely for the purposes of protecting Abbas.

How stupid is the government? Remember Oslo? We're still paying the price for that with Jewish blood, soaking the ground due to Jewish bullets given to Arafat. And now, while the memories of burnt flesh and charred bodies are still vivid in the Israeli collective consciousness, Olmert is making the same mistakes again.

The Jewish people continue to pay with their lives for the decisions made by those who have lost their way. I'm gonna say it again, so listen closely....

PEACE IS DEAD.

The Palestinians do not want peace. The Arab world does not want peace. The sooner the Israeli government admits this all too obvious fact (ummmm....70+ years of Arab terrorism?), only then can we identify the problem and try to solve it. This area of the world is diseased; cancer-ridden; a sick, dying invalid that sorely wants to be put out of his misery. So what to do?

Convergence? Ha! Olmert's "convergence plan" is a death wish for the Zionist state. It is the poison that will slowly incapacitate this country I love so much. It will prop up the terrorists who, daily, call for my blood and yours. It will allow these animals the opportunity to strike at our urban popualtion centres; Jerusalem, Tel Aviv, Haifa. It will allow Al Qaeda to grow. It will allow evil incarnate to roam the streets that we, the Jews, built with our sweat and our tears.

Do I have a solution? No. I only point out the problems. That's my purpose. What's your purpose?

As we celebrate Yom Yerushalayim, I am comforted with the knowledge that Hashem will continue to protect his children, allow us to prosper and, should we deserve it, defeat our enemies will the vengeance and fury of a thousand burning suns.

Pedal to the Metal

2006-05-24T06:27:00.000-04:00

Personal Update---- Aish is going great....I totally feel spiritually enriched. Religiously, I still have issues, but spiritually, I feel my soul getting lighter, my thoughts purer and my outlook on the Universe broader. The stuff I'm learning, while religious and Torah based, provides me with the insight necessary for me to define my purpose in life and have faith in Hashem that he will grant me the strength and courage to fulfill it. How did Avraham come to the conclusion of one, true G-d when his entire world worshipped numerous idols? What is Shabbos, really? What can we learn about our own nature from the stories of Cain and Abel & the Flood? How can the Torah provide me the blueprint for my life? These are the questions I am studying, and the path towards the answers, the journey I am presently undertaking, is making all the difference in the world. Screw the answers; it's the questions that get me!

Political Update----We are going to hell in a handbasket. The world, as we know it today, will soon cease to exist. The State of Israel has more of an existential threat today than any other period since the early 1920's. War, famine, pain, suffering, hurt.....it's so easy to tap into those emotions, as it seems the entire world suffers from it. It is much more difficult to tap into the happiness, beauty and clarity that is our physical world, a gift from Hashem, as less and less people espouse these emotions.

There is a great and horrible horizon ahead of us. There will be a time when all of us will have to ask ourselves what we believe in; what we are willing to die for. Better start preparing.

The word "Peace" only exists in the dictionary. If anyone talks to you about bringing peace into our world, you can tell them they are crazy. The best we can hope for is "End of Conflict".

The real question here is do we try and cure the cancer that is ripping the fabric of society apart? Or, do we simply band-aid it, and hopefully not die of the disease before we can cure it?

Either way, good days are behind us....hard days ahead. Fortunately, as long as we continue to believe Torah as truth and know that Hashem loves us and will take care of us, the Jewish people will continue to thrive, as we leave behind countless dynasties and empires and fulfill our collective purpose as a light onto the nations and the beacon of hope in a sea of chaos.

Good Shabbos.....

Chefetz Chashut

2006-05-22T07:28:00.000-04:00

So, about 20 minutes ago, I was eating lunch with the Hasbara Fellowships group at the Aish FCO (Fleishik Cheder Ochel). Once satiated, I made my way outside for a smoke, only to get yelled at to go back inside by a member of the Israeli police, bomb division. Not 10 feet from where I was standing, the police identified a bag without it's owner. Now let's take a moment and reflect on that.

Back in Canada, if I were to find a bag sans-owner, I would try and be a good samaritan and search for the owners name, phone number or address. Not in Israel. Here, we live in a different reality. Here, anything unidentifiable is a possible threat. Here, good will takes a back seat to safety and security. Here, we don't take any chances. It is called a Chefetz Chashut.

As a testament to both the efficiency of the Police, and the frequency for which these events occur, the situation was resolved within 20 minutes.

All pedestrians were moved away, preferably inside, when a policeman placed a protective covering over the bag in question, closed it, then proceeded to detonate the bag with an explosion that boomed throughout the Old City.

And that was it. People started to walk through the cordonned off area. Students went back to class, tourists went back to the shops and the scene, which was serene and quiet only moments before, returned to the normal hustle and bustle that is Jerusalem during tourist season.

Sure, people took pictures of the remnants; mostly snacks---bamba, bisli, some fruit---but this whole event was quite telling. A threat was identified, and within minutes it was removed. As a reflection on Israeli society this is both disturbing and fortunate....Disturbing because this is life in Israel. After 6 years of terror, this is accepted as a part of society. Sure it was a pain in the tuchus, but it was done. No second thoughts after the fact.

Can you imagine what would happen back home if this were the norm? Today's events, while thrilling to myself and others, doesn't even deserve the attention of the media. It is simply done. No international press coverage. Nothing. Does that make any sense at all?

Thank G-d all is safe. For me, the craziest part of it all is that by tomorrow at this time, everyone will have forgotten about it.

2 truths and a lie......

2006-05-18T18:37:00.000-04:00

1) I spoke at the Parliament Hill rally in 2002 in Ottawa on behalf of all Canadian students. I spoke in front of 14,000 Jews, right after Rabbi Melchior and before Irwin Cotler.

2) I have visited Israel over 15 times.

3) I quit my job today and will be remaining in Israel for the forseeable future.

Or maybe 3 truths and no lie??????

This Week's sign the apocalyse is upon us....

2006-05-17T06:25:00.000-04:00

The U.S. restored full diplomatic relations with Libya Monday, marking the end of a quarter-century of enmity and signaling to Iran and North Korea that similar rewards await countries that scrap their weapons of mass destruction. (Washington Post)

The road less travelled

2006-05-17T01:51:00.000-04:00

Morning!

In about an hour, I start my first day of classes at Aish....kinda feels like the first day of school all over again. While hesitant at first, I'm pretty excited to learn. Growing up at Hebrew Academy, I took the words of my rabbis and teachers as words of truth and fact. Today, with opinions and subjectivity in my pocket, I am prepared to build on the foundation I received at HA, and hopefully challenge and question to better understand my place in Judaism.

The brain is like any other muscle in one's body...if you don't use it, you lose it! These next few weeks should re-kindle my intellectual and spiritual spark, providing me the opportunity to delve and discuss into matters previously mysterious.

I have an odd feeling. It's really weird. I'll give you an example....If I was back in Canada, I would shave. The fact is Lag Baomer has passed, and shaving is now permissible. Yet, I have decided not to shave until I return to Canada. Why? Because back home, with the beard, I stick out like a Canadian in Laos. Here, with the beard, I feel more accepted. Weird, huh?

I think that points to the fact that even today, as a man who is comfortable with his station in life, I still seek approval from those around me. To an extent that actually bothers me, but, on the other hand, if this feeling is to act as a sort of "conscience" for me, I am appreciative for it. I guess it's like anything else in life; it is what we make it.

Hope all is well back home. Go, Oilers, Go!!!

Back home, again....

2006-05-16T03:03:00.000-04:00

Weird that I seem to write more when I'm away.....oh well!!!

I love Jerusalem! Whether it's seeing Esther, Mott and family and others, I always get this warm, fuzzy feeling all over...like coming home, again, for the first time. The weather is beautiful, the peeps gorgeous....all is right in the world.

I just wanted to post a quick comment on the NHL playoffs. I heard that the last game in San Jose, the fans were relentless in their booing of our Canadian national anthem. I remember not too long ago, during the confusion surrounding the most recent Iraq War, Canadians exercised their right to freedom of expression by booing the American national anthem. Even then, when the motivations were political and not athletic, Canadian media pundits denounced the move as stupid and useless.; I think the same can be said of the so-called "fans" in San Jose. Do they not realize that their top 3 players (Cheechoo, thornton and Marleau) are all Canadian? Guess not. The good news was that the Oilers slapped the Sharks silly in game 5 and are ready to close out the series demain.

The best response would be a victory. Put those "fans" in their proper place....

Lata!!!

playoff predictions

2006-04-21T11:04:00.000-04:00

With the beginning of the NHL's second season, I wanted to take this opportunity to share with you, dear reader, my picks for this postseason.....

Eastern Conference.....Habs beat the Canes in 6; Sens sweep the Bolts; Devils make easy work of the Rangers in 5 and the Flyers beat the Sabres in 7.

Western Conference...Red Wings over the Oilers in 5; Sharks trounce the vokoun-less Preds in 5; Dallas over the Avs in 6 and finally, in what should be the most entertaining and high flying series, the Mighty Ducks survive the mighty Flames in 7.

Happy Playoffs!

The Glass Building

2006-04-17T12:11:00.000-04:00

Less than an hour ago, a Palestinian terrorist blew himself up outside the old Bus Station in Tel Aviv. Early reports indicate 9 Israelis died, with upwards of 60 casualties. Islamic Jihad took responsibility for the bombing....committed by a 16 year old.

In the Middle East, things function differently than here in Canada. It's the whole clash of civilisations debate. East versus West. We stand for liberty, democracy and freedom. They stand for despotism, Islamism and terrorism. We value life. They value death. We value growth and change, human rights and expression. They value hoarding wealth, keeping citizens dirt poor and the dissemanation of misinformation and half-truths. And who suffers, dear friend?

Obviously, Israeli citizens suffer for it. Scores of dead and wounded; injured...emotionally and physically scarred...living reminders of the horrors people can commit against others. All for what? For whom? Committed in the name of Allah, in the name of jihad, in the name of a right to defend oneself against occupation? All bullshit.

It's done for one reason and one reason only....FEAR.

Islamist groups such as Hamas and Islamic Jihad operate with the sole purpose of making Israelis so scared to live their lives that the government is forced to acquiesce to the terrorists demands. One would think that 60 years of failed terror directed at Israelis would teach these barbarians that their fear tactic will not work....but they continue. They continue to target civilians with a hate-filled fury; with vitriolic statements about reasons. But these are not reasons for terror, these are simply excuses.

Unfortunately, the Israeli government has gotten quite good at retaliating. But now, with Hamas in power, an opportunity presents itself....an opportunity unseen the past few decades. As the international community continues to deny aid to the Hamas led PA; as pressure mounts on Hamas to recognize Israel (it will never happen!), the IDF has the unique opportunity to really dig into the hornest's nest and root out the terror cells. Now is the time to strike. Now is the time to demonstarte the true strength of the Israeli Defense Forces. Now is the time to show the Palestinians, the Arab world and the international community that the Israeli government is committed to defending their citizens; committed to destroying terror; committed to the Western, democratic way of life.

And as Canadians who enjoy the fruit of democracy's labour, we must stand side by side with the Israeli government and demonstrate to the world that democracies will stick together through thick and thin. And in these thick times, it's more important than ever.

"World Outlook"

2006-04-11T14:09:00.000-04:00

As time continues to tick on by;
As I continue to live on high;
As heroes continue to birth and die;
My world outlook does not waver.

No matter how hard you might try;
No matter how many tears you will cry;
No matter how many truths are transformed into lie;
My world outlook I do, indeed, savour.

As the lion is strong and the fox is sly;
As countless tales continue to fly;
As whispers of change slowly turn to 'sigh';
Your world outlook is of my own flavour.

This Week's sign the apocalypse is upon us...

2006-04-04T18:15:00.000-04:00

WASHINGTON - Call it a coincidental sign of our digital times or a reason to stay up late and stare at the clock. Either way, early Wednesday morning the time and date will be 01-02-03-04-05-06.

At 1:02 a.m. and three seconds on Wednesday, April 5, 2006, it will be the first hour of the day, the second minute of the hour, the third second of that precious minute in the fourth month and the fifth day of ... uh oh. It's not really the sixth year.
It's actually 2006 — only in our shorthand is it '06.
"It just happens to be a chronological oddity," said Geoff Chester, spokesman for the U.S. Naval Observatory, an official world atomic clock timekeeper. "If you were to use the full year, that would screw things up completely. You do have to bend it a little if you want to make it work. That's what you call 'Finagle's Law of Best Fit'."
Even numerologists, such as Rob Ragozzine, who runs the SimplyNumbers.com web site, dismiss the 1-2-3-4-5-6 moment as merely "a neat coincidence" because of that pesky 2006 thing.
"People are interested in numbers," said Jack Horkheimer, 67-year-old host of the Star Gazer public television show and executive director of the Miami Space Transit Planetarium. "Would I stay up all night waiting for it? Ten years ago, I would have had a party. Now, I will probably be deep in the arms of sleep."
There are less bleary-eyed alternatives. There's 1:02 p.m., but Horkheimer said that's really 13:02 p.m. and doesn't really count.
Chester recommends celebrating universal time, the standard scientific time, which is four hours ahead of eastern daylight time. So 01-02-03-04-05-06 can be celebrated at 9:02 p.m. EDT by calling up the U.S. Naval Observatory's "master clock" then and waiting for the universal time pronouncement, he said. That number is 202-762-1401.
The clock is also on the web at: http://us.rd.yahoo.com/dailynews/ap/ap_on_fe_st/storytext/numbers_row/18618487/SIG=1172aoend/*http://tycho.usno.navy.mil/what1.html.
For much of the world, especially Europe, this odd line-up of numbers doesn't really happen until next month. That's because many countries put the number of the day first, then the number of the month. So for many places, 01-02-03-04-05-06 happens at 1:02 a.m. May 4.

This Week's Sign the Apocalypse is upon us.....

2006-03-14T11:24:00.000-05:00

My Visa bill is under $500.

While I celebrate, Visa mourns.

"Suck it, Trebek. Suck it hard."

The proverbial straw.....why Ilan Halimi?

2006-03-06T10:14:00.002-05:00

Y'know, as a Jew and as a Zionist, call me names. Tell me Israel doesn't have a right to exist; tell me that Zionism is racism; even tell me the Holocaust never happened.....I can deal. But this......this, I cannot deal with. This story is tragic not only because of what happened, but because no one is reporting it. A Danish newspaper runs cartoons; the world stops spinning. A young Jew is abducted and tortured for 2 weeks at the hands of French Muslim youth; business as usual. Maybe that's the problem.....just business as usual.

May Ilan Halimi's painful end serve as a reminder to the rest of us Jews that no matter how advanced we think we've come; no matter how nice people speak to and about us; no matter how goods things are looking, remember, there is a Jew somewhere in this world that is paying the price of his Judaism with his life. It is incumbent on us to ensure this does not repeat.

Please find articles on Ilan and read them. He is a true modern day hero, and only together can we ensure his life wasn't taken for nothing.

Prayers and good wishes to the Halimi family and to all Jews worldwide that continue to believe in what it means to lead a Jewish life. Amen.

Happy belated Rosh Chodesh Adar

2006-03-02T10:43:00.000-05:00

Let's sing it together!!!

You all know the song.....Meeshe Neechnas Adar Marbim B'Simcha!!!

So this month is a joyous one, now is it? Makes sense. Mr. Nathaniel Bouganim will wed this Sunday evening in Montreal. Nat and myself went to Hebrew Academy together for many, many years. Following my rule (if I was at his Bar Mitzvah, I'll be at his wedding), I look forward to re-connecting with other alums from the class of '79, errrrr, I mean '96.

What else to celebrate? Well, Israel Week hits Queen's on Monday, with unbelievable programs, parties and information. Has there ever been a better time to be a Zionist? I think not...

Less than 3 weeks until Spring officially arrives. And with this new season comes hopes for the Summer months.....hopes of Israel, of camp and of golf.

Or how about Queen's Hillel's first ever semi-formal? The Bar Mitzvah Bash '06 will prove to be a real throw back to those good ole days of Bar/Bat Mitzvah-hood.

Meeshe Neechnas Adar Marbim B'Simcha?

Well, it sure seems so, doesn't it?

This Week's Sign the Apocalypse is upon us....

2006-02-28T13:05:00.000-05:00

From www.canada.com:

Published: Monday, February 27, 2006

Pamela Anderson is heading to Halifax to host this year's Juno Awards.The sexy star, who hails from Vancouver, has signed on to emcee the annual celebration of Canadian music. The show will be broadcast April 2 on CTV.Anderson joins performers like Bryan Adams, Michael Buble, Nickelback, Bedouin Soundclash and British band Coldplay.Top nominees include Diana Krall, Nickelback and Michael Buble.

I don't get it......Ben Johnson wasn't available?

Faith in the Universe

2006-02-27T14:37:00.000-05:00

You know, for someone who believes that "karma" and "fate" are simply made up words that describes G-d's influence in our physical world, I seem to have a growing faith in the universe. Allow me to explain.....

When discussing G-d's existence/role in life, I invariably end up explaining to agnostics and atheists that what they call fate or karma or destiny, is what I would call proof that G-d does exist, and furthermore, takes a real interest in our daily lives. Seems simple, I know. Yet that's linguistics for you......different words expressing similar, if not the same, emotion or thought.

So when I say I have faith in the Universe, what do I mean?

Well, I mean 3 things:

1) G-d loves me. It's true. In fact, He loves you as well. And knowing that now more than ever, allows me to better embrace my life, my friends and my religion. Faith in the Universe.

2) The world hates Israel......but not as much as they used. Political shifts to the Right in Europe, blatant anti- Western sentiments, furor over cartoons, the ideological divide when Eastern societies clash with Western freedoms.....all these little, insignificant progress is enough to hope that I will see the day when my sister can walk the streets of Jerusalem sans fear. Faith in the Universe.

3) I love Canada. 24 medals at the Olympics? Vancouver 2010? Conservative government and cabinet? Theodore's "injury" and the warmest Winter I have ever experienced? You guessed it! Faith in the Universe.

Now, I am old enough to know that while my faith in the Universe continues to grow, the Universe can also shift 180 degrees and take a huge shit all over me. But life is about memories, good times as well as bad, and that knowledge helps ease the stress that the Universe, will, indeed, declare a personal jihad against me and mine.....sooner or later. I have faith, though, that it will be later, rather than sooner.

After all, golf season is mere weeks away.....

My Conservative Cabinet

2006-02-01T12:21:00.004-05:00

As PM Harper, and the rest of the country, gets over our collective election hangover, his first act as PM (or one of them, at least) will be the naming of his cabinet. Have you ever noticed the diverse, and somewhat questionable, positions in the Prime Minister's cabinet? Of the 25 positions, Minister of Foreign Affairs, Justice Minister and Finance Minister are the cream of the crop, while other positions like Minister responsible for the Canadian Wheat Board seem as useless as the Bloc running outside of Quebec. Regardless, this is a great opportunity to meet our new leaders, those all stars of the Tory caucas.

Throughout my time as a politically active student at Carleton, I was fortunate enough to meet and greet many Conservative MP's (at the time Progressive Conservatives), but my 2 most memorable meetings were with 2 veritable policy makers of the Conservative party, then Foreign Affairs critic Stockwell Day, and Jason Kenney, MP from Alberta. These 2 are rumored to have obtained high profile cabinet positions, Day as Minister of Foreign Affairs, and Kenney as Health Minister (www.rickmercer.blogspot.com).

While I am excited and encouraged by both potential appointments, I am thoroughly elated that Stockwell Day will now represent Canadian foreign policy to the rest of the world. While most Tory-haters will remind us of Stock's complete failure to lead his party 2 elections ago, he managed to stick around and will reap his proverbial rewards. I am pretty comfortable saying that Day's opinions on Canada's role in the international community, as well as his overall view of Canadian foreign policy does not go over well with most Canadians, but I am one Canadian whose support of day is unwavering. He has proven to be a real friend of the US, of democracy and freedom, and, most importantly, of Israel. Stock as FM will greatly improve Canada's support of the Jewish State, and of our intolerance to terrorism worldwide. As a leading nation, it is our responsibility to ride the moral high ground and stamp out terrorism wherever found.

Stock is the man to lead us. I just hope it's for a substantial period of time.....it took the Liberals over a decade to ruin Canada's relationship to freedom and democracy, I wonder how long it will take the Tories to rebuild it?

Waiting for the sky to fall

2006-01-31T10:07:00.000-05:00

Where's Chicken Little when you need a real paranoid conspiracy theorist???

So we presently find ourselves in the "shock and awe" aftermath of Palestinian elections (no pun intended....but you never know!). The popular thought permeating the international scene is that any Hamas led government must a) give up their arms (weapons), b) renounce their platform, that is, recognize Israel's right to exist and c) honor and commit to all international agreements signed by the PA/PLO over the past 4 decades. I would like to comment on these 3 pre-conditions to any international financial assistance, specifically the why and how....Why Hamas won't agree and how the international community can make them.

A) Put down the weapons, stupid!!!
Why......that's like asking Barry Bonds to continue to hit home runs, but he can't use his bat anymore. By taking the military/terrorist route, Hamas has proven themselves able to withstand Fatah's significant influence, and continue to receive aid from rogue countries like Iran. A weaponless Hamas is a pipedream; a silly suggestion that takes the focus away from the real issue here....HAMAS IS A TERRORIST ORGANISATION. Period. Why would they disarm?
How we can make them disarm.....First, it depends how you view the current conflict. If, as I, you see the Israeli-Palestinian conflict as a mere part of a greater conflict betweem Israel and the Arab world, then I would suggest IDF operations, continued targeted assasinations of those with terror ties and finally, treating Hamas as the group they truly are.....a terrorist organisation who happened to get elected, not as elected officials who "chose" the terror route.

B) Recognize Israel's right to exist (as a Jewish state in the Middle East....)
Why......This is pretty much what separates Hamas from Fatah. At least Fatah was willing to concede the fact that the Jews aren't going anywhere......ever. As I have mentioned in previous entries, we (Jews) do not like to swim. So, any attempt to "push us to the sea" will be fruitless. Hamas dropping this from their platform is as likely as Stephen Harper sticking to the Kyoto agreements and allowing Quebec to become its own country.....don't hold your breath. My question to you, dear reader, is would you rather deal with the enemy who will stab you in the back (Fatah), or the enemy that will spit and curse you to your face, then stab you repeatedly in the stomach (Hamas)??? Is this really a viable option?
How we can make them recognize Israel.....We can't. They won't. Why try? The worst thing we (everyone) can do is truly believe that Hamas is out there to improve the lives of Palestinians. That may be a consequence of their platform, but that is not their goal. They want the region void of Jews. Whether we leave of our own accord or they blow us up is irrelevant. For them, no Jew is a good Jew.

C) Uphold ALL international agreements already in place.
Why......Because they didn't sign them, why should they honour them? Hard to argue with logic like that, eh? Well, I will try. If that line was adopted by all governments worldwide, we would be facing a crisis of anarchy and chaos never before seen by human eyes. And if that isn't enough, by not upholding existing, negotiated agreements, Hamas opens a can of worms that will be hard to contain. If they are not bound to those agreements, then, is Israel still bound to those agreements? If not, then Hamas will find themselves in a pretty precarious position, with the full might and strength of character of Israel that history will remember as the guiding light representing a new dawn to an old, but not forgotten, conflict.

My predictions......
1) Things will stay quid pro quo for the next few months. The hudna will be respected and all will seem quiet and great and grand until......
2) Hamas, comfortable with their new political responsibilities, re-embarks on their mission of terror. Israel, hoping the calm would remain until at least after elections (March 28), retaliates, as acting PM Olmert tries to persuade the Israeli people that he, and not BiBi, is best qualified to run government and destroy the Palestinian terror infrastructure. Fortunately or not, I don't think the Israeli voters will buy it. If Hamas is stupid enough to engage in terror in March, they will be handing BiBi the Premiership of the State of Israel. In times of terror, who better to lead the country than an ex-military guy? How about an ex-military guy with experience as PM already? How about an ex-military guy with past PM experience and the kahones to move unilaterally and draw up Israel's final borders, recognized by the PA or not.

Hamas has a real opportunity here. Hamas can change her ways, protect her people, build a country from the ground up. They can literally save the Palestinian people from generations of squalor, poverty and intellectual hunger. Or, like the end of the Weimar Republic of Germany when Hitler ascended to power in 1932, these terrorists will use democracy as a means to an evil end. Democracy can save the world if used properly. It can also cover the world in a hazy fog of confusion, a thick mist of hate and a cold breeze of intolerance.

Either time will tell which route Hamas will take, or we push Hamas in the right direction and hope that blind hatred gives way to nation building. Can you guess which option I have my money on????

Democracy in action.....or is it?

2006-01-27T11:54:00.000-05:00

So the Palestinians have exercised their right to elect their leaders, and must now live with that choice. But, as democracy is still more of an ideology than an applicable mode of government, it would behoove the Palestinians to try and understand the true nature of democracy. I thought I might help them out with that.

Last summer, a very smart Israeli analyst, Yisrael Ne'eman, said something about democracy that has stuck with me and that I agree with whole-heartedly. A true democracy can only be judged by how the leaders leave their post, not how they were elected. For examples let us look at a couple of other Middle East countries, namely, Iraq under Hussein and Egypt under Mubarak. While both claimed to function as democracies (Saddam claimed to have won 100% of the votes, Mubarak closer to 95%) given the mode of electing its leaders, neither can be true democracies as those "elected" to power could not lose their power or position. If we look at Israel's democracy in contrast, leaders are elected in a similar fashion to Iraq and Egypt (ballots, not bullets), but the elected leaders, knowing their time on the top of the political ladder is short, will work towards re-election by passing laws and starting new initiatives to build the country and unify her people. Then, once the ruling party's turn is done, we start the cycle over again. That, my friends, is democracy. So I would hope that the Palestinians hold their government responsible for representing their values and wishes. It is my belief that the Palestinian people yearn for their own state. A state with a responsible government that will improve the daily lives of her citizens. Arafat's Fatah failed time and again in that endeavour, which has led to gross dissatisfaction among the masses and to Hamas' stunning and shocking victory.

My next point was alluded to in yesterday's entry. Voting is just the beginning of a long and winding road towards democracy, liberty and freedom. In order to truly make this democracy successful, the Palestinian people need to understand that they are partners with Hamas in government, not their drones. They must work together in order to achieve those goals they pursue, otherwise, they will be no better off with Hamas than they were with Fatah. It is this partnership between citizens and state that defines one's success. This is a truly an opportunity, an historic opportunity, to leave the despair and hate behind and make the concerted effort to build a nation. The beauty is that the world would totally support it. Unfortunately, as long as Hamas calls for Israel's destruction, the building of Palestine will not commence. Building versus destroying.....that's the real question here. And it's the Palestinians choice to make and theirs to answer to. Israel will continue to seek peace and reconciliation, that constant will not change. In order to truly change the landscape of the Arab-Israeli conflict, the Palestinians must choose themselves for once. And that would be a choice worth fighting for.

Have a good and safe shabbos.

They still want YOU dead.....

2006-01-26T11:36:00.000-05:00

My friends,

2 elections this week...congratulations PM Harper and the whole of Canada for ever so gently putting our collective feet down on corruption and the Liberals. While I will, inevitably, comment more on the Tories still surprising win (see polls from 2 months ago), this blog entry is dedicated to the Hamas victory in the territories.

There are 132 seats in the Palestinian parliament, 70 of which just went to candidates flying the Hamas colours. Here's one sick and twisted example....One of the 70 candidates to win a seat is a woman named Miriam Farhat, also known as Umm Nidal. Farhat, in a video message, called on all sons and daughters of jihad to strap themselves with explosives and blow up Israeli civilians. That was yesterday. Today, this same terrorist is charged with the political responsibility of representing those who elected her. How sick is that? In Canada, we elect businessmen, lawyers and professors, and in the odd election, an entertainer here and a hockey player there, in the territories, the Palestinians were so fed up with Fatah corruption and inability to provide the most basic social services, they elected a well known terrorist group whose sole aim and goal is the destruction of the Jewish State and to push all the Jews to the sea. Well, newly elected leaders of the Palestinian people, I have a little secret to share with you....Jews don't like to swim. You can take my word for it or learn that particular lesson the hard way.... my gut (and history) says you'll go for the latter.

I am of 2 minds right now. On the one hand, I truly believe in democracy. I believe it is every person's right, nay obligation, to express themselves through voting. And I am happy that the Palestinian people have exercised that opportunity, no matter the result. But if the Palestinian people believe that voting is all democracy is about, they will learn some hard lessons soon. Some people will claim that this Hamas victory is a sign that the Palestinian people believe in Hamas' charter which calls for the destruction of Israel. I don't buy that. Like in all democracies, different people have different priorities when it comes to how they vote, and this Hamas win shows me, at least, that the Palestinian people are sick and tired of the corruption that has plagued Fatah and Arafat and his cronies since Oslo. Israelis have the right to live in peace and security, that is what they expect of their government. Well, Palestinians have the right to demand functioning hospitals and schools, running water and sewage systems, infrastructure and economy. Fatah could not deliver, so they have chosen to allow Hamas a chance to build what Fatah could not, a Palestinian state. To the Palestinian people, the fact that Hamas openly calls for Israel's destruction is not the sole reason for it being elected, it is simply a by-product of a successful campaign promising the social and welfare services that Fatah could not deliver. Unfortunately for the rest of us, it is not so simple.

Hamas is a terrorist organisation. They want all of us dead. You, me, my little sister living in Jerusalem, my friends in Tel Aviv and my family in the Old City. All of us, gone forever. Now they are in a much better position to accomplish their goals. They hope to achieve a similar government to that of President Ahmadinejad of Iran, one filled with flowery anti-Semitic rhetoric and whimsical modes of world destruction to prop themselves to the leaders of the Palestinian people and the Arab world. Their forray into politics, albeit successful, is still in its infancy. Perhaps their attempt at politics will lift the veil of terrorism and evil and give way to the cool yet warming breeze of reconciliation and peace? Ya, right....I won't hold my breath.

I wonder what Sharon would say to all this. Undoubtedly, he was prepared to tackle this problem head on and continue to lead the Israeli people and Jews all around the Diaspora into this new obstacle, but now, without his experience and resiliency, I feel lost. Who will now stand tall and lead the Jewish nation ahead? Will Olmert be able? Will this new Hamas reality push Israeli voters a little further right and give BiBi Netanyahu another chance as Prime Minister? Only time will tell. Time will also tell us where the winding road towards Middle East peace takes us next. How many stops will we make before we reach our desired destination? How much more blood will spill and soil that road? But the scariest question of all becomes what if we never reach our destination? At what point do we abandon all hope, quit leading idyllic lives and turn to deal with the reality that now presents itself? At what point does the glass turn from half-full to half-empty? It's a question we must all ask ourselves, no matter how scary the answer may be.

Shattered dreams

2005-12-05T17:59:00.000-05:00

I really wanted this entry to be about the beautiful simcha I attended last night....the nuptuals of my good friend Noah Farkas to Sara Brodsky of Ottawa. Unfortunately, world events do not allow me fill these e-pages with words of happiness and prosperity, of friendship and innocence, of gratitude and elation. Instead, I must comment on today's terror attack, perpetrated by the Islamic Jihad in Netanya. Outside a shopping mall, a suicide bomber blew himself up, killing 5 innocents and wounding 50 others. Please visit haaretzdaily.com for details. Firstly, it was a miracle that the terrorist was stopped before entering the mall, and who knows the devastation that could have been caused had he succeeded in entering the mall unabated. Second, if you are an avid reader of this blog, you will surely note this blogger's increased social awareness, specifically within the State of Israel. It pains be to backtrack from that line of thought, yet today's terror activities have lifted the veil from my eyes.

What is the first and foremost ideology of political philosophy? That the state, or government, of any country is resposible for the safety and security of her citizens. Through indirect acts, ie voting, the social contract between citizen and state is sealed. As a result, the state mus be wary of protecting her citizens from internal, as well as external, threats.

Today, the government of Israel failed her people.

For many months now, Israel has been secure (I use "secure" and not "safe" for obvious reasons). But today, the dream of peace in Israel has been shattered yet again. Pundits will call this a "cycle of violence", but, my friends, I say that that is not the reality in which we live. The term "cycle of violence" firstly assumes that blame is equally shared between 2 warring parties. Nothing here could be further from the truth. Israelis want peace, the Palestinian leadership has been shown unable to provide such peace. In its stead, they offer continued corruption, inability to stop the terror and an attitude of political indifference. Second, "cycle of violence" assumes the 2 warring parties are standing on the same platform. Again, not true in this case. While the IDF is strong and organized, Palestinian military actions are nothing less than guerilla warfare, targeting and claiming innocent lives as shown by the terror activities today, and nothing more than terror for terror's sake.

So while the Israelis and Palestinians continue to fight and negotiate, fight and negotiate, fight and negotiate, it is the Israeli people who pay the price of this conflict with their blood and the blood of family and friends. As a Jew living in the Diaspora, I feel unable to help, unable to try and alleviate this suffering at the hands of evil incarnate.

My socialist ideas of peace and tolerance and sharing are on the backburner. What the Israeli people and Jews the world over need now is a leader unwilling to compromise with terrorism. A leader able to command our forces to the end that the Israeli people yearn for....the safety and security that we, here in Canada, take for granted. We owe them that, at least.

We shall see how these next few days unfold. Hopefully, lameduck Sharon will use harsh words and harsher actions to avenge this continued onslaught of Israelis. What is the price of peace? How many of our brothers and sisters need to perish before we say "Enough!". Well, for me, today was that day. ENOUGH.

Tides.....they be a turning?

2005-12-01T15:56:00.000-05:00

So, my friends, we are all pretty much aware of the rampant anti- Semitism sweeping across the globe. These past few years have been tough on G-d's Chosen People. At the UN, Israel gets shat on like nobody's business. We have just witnessed the Paris-tifada in France, new blood libels and continued demonization at the hands of Arab and Muslim countries worldwide. Wasn't it just yesterday that the President of Iran called for Israel's destruction? Something about wiping us off the map? (Funny sidenote here......Iran calls for Israel to be wiped off the map, yet their maps do not include the Jewish State).

Fortunately, maybe due to Iran's reprehensible and vociferous comments, the tides seem to be turning in our favour for once.....both on the Jewish and Israeli front. European governments are moving towards the political Right. Blair lost a huge majority in English parliament that was seen as a blow; Chirac and the Republic are faced with a growing Muslim population----a population which feels more like second class citizens that maybe anywhere else in Europe. And finally, the new Chancellor of Germany, a Christian Democrat named Merkel successfully beat out incumbent Gerhard Shroeder, and just today, in her first public address as the leader of Germany, reiterated her support for Israel, as well as the special relationship that Israel and Germany share.

To me, these are baby steps....but at least they're in the right direction (no pun intended).

All this plus Canadian and Israeli elections? Somebody pinch me, I must be dreaming.

I miss camp....

2005-12-01T12:26:00.000-05:00

Quick shout out to Billy Israel '05.......best trip ever!!!!

Joe Thronton a Shark? It's true.....and the question that begs to be asked is who's next? I'm thinking Leetch, going to the Leafs or Habs unless they trade him to the Western Conference (like Thornton). Either way, the Bruins seem to be packing it in after an off-season of high hopes and big money contracts. Unfortunately, that's not the formula for success in this, the "new NHL". Maybe Boston is learning that the hard way.

The "new NHL"

2005-11-30T13:31:00.000-05:00

I love it.

Here are my early picks for end of the season hardware....

MVP....tough one. Jagr's picked up his game, Forsberg is at the top of his game, etc....To me, the MVP is the Swedish Sensation, Daniel Alfredsson. let's see if he can keep up his 1.5 points per game pace.

Top Defenceman......this one's easy. Bryan McCabe is scoring like a top line Centre, and he is Toronto's defence. How can you not choose a guy that's both offensively and defensively leading his team?

Top Goalie......really hard. It looks like it's gonna be the Dominator again. You heard it here first.

Top Rookie......Sidney crosby. 'Nuff said.

Most Improved Player......Eric Staal. This kid is for real. And he's gonna win me my Yahoo Fantasy hockey pool. Go 'Canes!

Top Coach......Andy Murray. Leaving behind jacques Martin's defensive priorities, the Sens are on pace to top 400 goals and finish the season with single digit losses. Phenomenal.

Who'll win the Stanley Cup? Easiest answer....Les bleues, les blancs, les rouges...Les Habs, Les Habs.

Momma always says....

2005-11-30T13:09:00.000-05:00

Stupid is as stupid does.

Actually, my mom never said that. Tom Hanks movies aside, this little pearl of wisdom almost explains the PM's recent moves. Almost.

So the leader of the corrupt believes his re-election lies in 2 issues. First, the economy. Sure, sure...the economy is great. We are the envy of the free world. Blah, blah, blah. All I have to say to that is if a party as deceitful and dishonest as the Liberals can provide us with another budget surplus, think what the Conservatives could do....Harper would infuse the economy with new jobs, cozy up to our neighbours from the south on issues like softwood lumber and other natural ressources. Increased military spending would again, lead to more jobs, and perhaps clear the fog of inefficiency as it relates to our depleted Armed Forces. Bottom line here is simple.....It's the economy, stupid! Liberals or not, we would be in the same financially superior situation than we've found ourselves in decades past. So for me, the 'economy' argument is moot.

Next we have the all familiar Martin cry that Stephen Harper has a hidden agenda. Well isn't that the pot calling the kettle black, isn't it? Has the Gomery scandal taught you nothing, Mr. Prime Minister? We Canadians are sick and tired of being bullied into voting Liberal, not on their merits, but purely and solely based on the other parties inability to relate to us. But those days are behind us, Mr. Prime Minister. After 16 months of opposition leader Harper, we have realized his agenda is anything but hidden. He is true to his party, his platform and his constituents. that's a lesson the Red and White should learn soon, right Mr. Prime Minister?

So this election (in 55 days) is about lessons learnt. We Canadians have learnt our lessons the hard way, Mr. Prime Minister. But we will not repeat them. The question is, Mr. Prime Minister, will you?

In my old age

2005-11-23T15:26:00.000-05:00

Apparently, one is supposed to move towards Conservatism as one moves along in years, yet I find the exact opposite happening to me. As a staunch conservative on most issues, my own feelings on the March Israeli elections have made me question my own position on issues I have not really contemplated before.....poverty, hunger, social imjustice and Israeli domestic policies. It seems to me at least, that as I matured and became of the world around me, the conservative views on military, foreign policy and international politics defined my political opinion. It disturbs me to say that I cannot hold true to those views anymore. Weird, no?

We find ourselves in a world juxtaposed from the one we inhabited only 5 years ago. As the Western world have moved closer to the Right, ie Merkel beating Shroeder in Germany, Blair losing his huge parliamentary majority and Chirac's loss of control in France. All signs that, internationally, Conservatism is spreading with a gusto unseen since colonial times. Yet, I feel that in Israel's case, it is time to address the social problems plaguing our country.....and now, in a time of "relative" calm and security, what better time to tackle these problems?

USA supports Israel. The EU has thawed their view on Israel. Even the UN seems to be waking up from their dream of being an effective and representative world body, and is almost (so close...yet so far away still) able to address the anti-Israel rhetoric that has plagued their halls since the Zionism is racism resolution (repealed later).

Getting back to the Israeli political forum, I am actually leaning towards supporting Sharon's new party.....probably named "Kadimah", hebrew which means "moving forward". And I think it's high time we do, indeed, move forward. But not in peace negotiations or anything like that. While I do not need convincing of the importance of a strong military and skilled foreign diplomats, I believe the Israeli voters have certain expectations of the next government, no matter who leads it. They expect that the mood of peace and the feeling of security continues. I agree. yet, that should not mean that Israelis should continue to live in hunger and poverty. If anything, how can we expect to make peace with our neighbours if we can't even take care of our own people? Once we do take care of all Israelis needs, the rest of the International community can feel proud to stand with and behind the lone Jewish State in the world. I know I would.

25 percent

2005-11-21T13:09:00.000-05:00

I read an article at haaretzdaily.com yesterday about some 25% of Israelis living in the West Bank are willing to relocate within Israel. Interesting, no? We seem to find ourselves in a period of relative calm, that is, on the terrorist front. Don't get me wrong, we all know Qassam rockets continue to fall in Sderot, and Hamas and Hizbullah are still geared towards complete destruction of a Jewish state in the Middle East, yet we still find ourselves in a period of "relative calm". In these days of post-disengagement, and in the mindset that is Middle Eastern politics, we seem to be waiting for a Palestinian response, notably, a call to disarm and face the "Israeli Zionist opporessor" on diplomatic terms, not military terms. Sorry to burst your fantasy bubble, but this is not going to happen. If anything, these past few months have demonstrated Abu Mazen's (and Al-Fatah's) inability to rein in the terrorists and build an economic foundation for a future Palestinian state.

So back to the 25%. As I mentioned earlier, the cycle of Middle East politics is not unlike this "cycle of violence" we hear oh so often. One side does something, the other responds, then the other responds in kind, etc.....So instead of waiting for the Palestinians to respond to Sharon's bold move (which he stole from Mitzna, let us not forget), why not continue to move unliaterally towards a final settlement and begin to relocate these 25%? If they are willing to go, and the government is serious about a final settlement with a Palestinian state as the result, it seems obvious to me to get these Israelis moving sooner, rather than later.

I guess what I'm trying to say is let's keep the momentum going. We must also think of these things in international terms. Israel seems to be in a "relatively" good position vis-a-vis the international community. With Iran's recent statements stirring the proverbial pot, our "friends"in the EU are actually condemning Iran for such a sick and twisted statement. Condy Rice and George W. are firmly behind the Israeli government, and olive branches have been extended to various Muslim countries with a history of vitriolic statements regarding Israel, like Pakistan and Sri Lanka.

In the ever-changing landscape that is international politics, it seems clear and simple to me that we, the Israeli government and her supporters, need to shake this tree, and see what kind of fruit will come to bear. Unless, of course, we get bogged down with something. Something like an election. Ya, that would do it, alright.

Change of season....

2005-11-19T12:32:00.000-05:00

Is it just me or is there something special in the air this weekend? The press if full of tintillating stories about upcoming elections in both Canada and Israel. Here at home, who knows how Gomery will affect the outcome? In fact, does anyone even care anymore? All I know if that trust is a major issue this time around, and with the Liberals actions from the last 2 Prime Minister's, trust is not something that Martin will want to address. Meanwhile, the Conservatives and NDP are led by 2 men who are utterly unidentifiable. These 2 have proven, unlike the Liberals not through action by through their demeanour, that they are not prepared to lead what will inevitably be another minority government. And that leaves the Bloc. In today's fractious world that is Canadian federal politics, it almost seems as if the Bloc were to expand West and East, they might be the biggest winnners in the upcoming Winter election.

And then we move to the Middle East. Elections will be early to mid March, and with less approximately 3 months until voters will have their say, interesting developments have occured. First, perennial Labor leader and past Prime Minister Shimon Peres was narrowly beaten by a relative young upstart, Peretz (think that confused anybody?). Sharon ahs already completed the necessary steps to break from the Likud and start his own party...but that decision will only come in 2 days. MK Lapid seems to feel Sharon will bolt. Does that leave the door wide open for Netanyahu? Will anyone go up against this other former Prime Minister? Then the leader of the right-wing National Union Party, Avogdor Lieberman, is calling for a united Right come March. Will the National Religious Party and Likud answer that call to keep Sharon from power? So many questions...

And this is why I am so excited. It may be getting cold outside, but things inside the Knesset and on Parliament Hill are sure to heat things up in the coming weeks. Maybe I can even leave my jacket at home this week...

Shabbat Shalom

2005-08-05T11:21:00.000-04:00

This past week was spent in Tel Aviv, and by Tel Aviv I mean the biggest outdoor sauna in the world. The words "hot" and "sticky" have no meaning for me anymore. Even after 3 showers a day and 3 changes of clothing, I still went to bed every night sticking to my sheets. Now the group is up north by the Kinneret for Shabbat, and with less than 80 hours before I fly home, the mood is still upbeat and everyone's having a grand ol' time.

Can't wait to get home, yet I don't want to leave...weird no?

Crazy shit going down here...I'm sure you've seen the news. Also, heard about the Air France fiasco at Pearson...I will never, ever fly Air France...they are cursed. Cursed by G-d for all time.

Now that I have someone reading over my shoulder as I type, I wish you all a great Shabbos and send my best....

Peace

End of the weekend...

2005-07-30T18:39:00.000-04:00

And what a weekend it was....

Lots of pool time, good food and some crazy poker, this was truly a weekend to remember. Tomorrow the 'orphans' join the rest of the group for a nice 3 day stay in Tel Aviv. I can't believe there's only a week left to the trip...these past 3 plus weeks have really flown by!!!

But onto more important issues...Carey Price? I mean c'mon, let's be honest here! My first emotion was severe disappointment, why do we need a goalie? Theo should be around for another decade, why do we need a goalie? Everyone was aying we would pick Gilbert Brule, but GM Gainey really did a number on us hockey aficionados. After my initial shock, I realized that Bob gainey not only carried the Habs for many years, but also turned the Stars into a powerhouse, and who am I to question his pick? A fan, gosh darn it!!! Either way, our 2nd pick seems promising, and if we don't have Theo in our long term plans (ie Theo for Vincent Lecavalier....you heard it here first!!!), then Price is a good pick. Oh well, only time will tell...

So here's wishing everyone a Shavua Tov...I hope to chill in an internet cafe in Tel Aviv in the next few days...

Ramat Rachel

2005-07-29T02:21:00.000-04:00

1:53 mins left....

Here at kibuutz R"R with all the orphans...Gadna was great, a lil' dirty but whatever.

What's going on in the world? I have no clue!!!

1:12 mins left...

The trip is truly awesome (60 second warning), I"m looking forward to major pool time now...

Gotta go...

Love ya!!!!

Back in action...

2005-07-25T16:24:00.000-04:00

I know, I know, it's been way too long....

So let's get caught up, shall we?

The trip I'm staffing, Canadian Young Judea Kadima Bilouim, is absolutely amazing. There are 124 campers from across the country here and all are great kids...Most campers went to Poland for 5 days before landing in Israel, but I flew with my co-staff Maya and about 30 campers who came directly from Toronto. We arrived in Jerusalem for a couple of nights stay, then I went off with 30 or so Kadima kids up North. There was a lot of volunteering (painting a school, chillin' with new immigrants at an absorption centre, and running programs for a group of Israeli scouts). Then we travelled all the way south to Eilat and met up with the rest of the campers. There was scuba diving, snorkelling, serious beach time, pool time and a really nice Shabbos. Also, that's where I bought the new Potter book...crazy story. There were no books for sale as they were all reserved, but it took me about 20 minutes to convince the peeps at the book store to let me call the parents who reserved the books to let me take their copy. The 8th person I spoke with, Marina, laughed at me for about a minute and then gave in and let me purchase her copy. After blessing her with a long life and many kids, I started reading the 607 page monster. 2 days later, once I finished the book, I almost cried...those of you who'll read the book will understand.

After Eilat, we headed north, back to Jerusalem, where we spent 5 great days at the Caesar Hotel, including Shabbat. On the way there, we spend a night at a Bedouin tent, and then ascended Massada at sunrise. Needless to say, that was a helluva long day. Once in Jerusalem, we visited Yad Vashem, Har Herzl, went on an archaeological dig and had an all around sweet time. I am presently in Jeru on my day off, and I'm going to Sde Boker tomorrow to join the kids at Gadna (5 day army experience for 16 year olds).

As for other things going on, I got something pierced....it's true. I've also decided, at the urging of most of my campers, to try and quit smoking. As of last Thursday, I have not smoked than 4 cigarettes in one day. I tried going cold turkey, but I only lasted about 26 hours, and let me tell you, those 26 hours were probably the closest thing I will ever feel to actual PMS. So I decided then to first drastically cut down the # of cigarettes I smoke a day, thereby slowly weening myself off this nasty habit before I kick it for good. This shows that while I feel my campers have a lot to learn from me, they have already proved I have lots to learn from them too.

You can check out pictures from the trip at www.canadaisraelexperience.com under the Biluim Kadima link.

Really though, I got something pierced.

The best news of 'em all.......hockey's back!!! Unlike the baseball '94 lockout, I think this time away from the best game on earth will change the sport for the better. The salary cap, the new rule changes, the shootout and finally, Sidney Crosby, will improve the game for fans all across the world. While it would have been unprecedented if Montreal got the first pick in the draft and chose Crosby, I am very satisfied with the 5th pick in this years draft, and if we can re-sign Theo, Ryder, Ribiero and Kovalev and maybe add a couple of fresh faces, Les Canadiens will provide me with the hours of entertainment I have so sorely missed. And then there's the fantasy pools....

So I guessed that's it for now...I will do my best to update again sooner, rather than later.

Seriously, I got something pierced, but I guess you'll have to see it to believe it!!!

Schwartz

30 minutes...

2005-06-07T12:30:00.000-04:00

Only a quick half hour before my sheirut comes and wisks me away to Ben Gurion Airport. I will be coming back to Canada earlier than expected, with the intentions of finding a place to live in Kingston and getting more familiar with my new job and its responsibilities. While I do love Israel, I must admit I am very much looking forward to sleeping in my own bed, Tim Horton's regular coffee and J&J's couch!!! In the same breath I must also admit that I cannot wait to fly back on July 9th with YJ...it really is very exciting!!!

Anyhoo, I probably should head back and pack...see you all real soon!

Another Good Shabbos

2005-06-03T06:46:00.000-04:00

As the program winds to a close, I am very pleased with the level of participation and knowledge gained by most participants. It is unfortunate, though, that some students have not applied themselves properly, and have not taken advantage of this unbelievable opportunity. It is a sad state of affairs. I remember what my participation on Hasbara Fellowships did for me not only as an Israel activist and a Jew, but in the way I approach everyday life. And for these handful of students who only want to satisfy their ethereal, material superficialities, my time, money and resources have been wasted. Y'know the saying 'one apple spoils the bunch'? I think that old adage applies to this group very well.

On a brighter note, I am happy with the response from my previous post and, as such, I will write more about Israel and my own philosophical ideas on the world state of affairs. While I know I am no expert, I do feel that I can help shed some light on the topics that interest me (and hopefully you as well).

That's it for now...I'm going to enjoy a 'cafe hafuch' in the Old City before Shabbos finally arrives.

Good shabbos to all...may it be restful, spiritual and happy!!!

Existential ramblings

2005-06-01T17:17:00.000-04:00

Does Israel have a right to exist as a Jewish State?

Silly question, no? But one that we, as the Jewish people, need to understand. We are a people. We are a religion. We are a nation. We are not one without the other two. As such, we are needed, nay, commanded, to show the rest of the world the necessity of Israel functioning as a Jewish state. We can approach this ideology in a multitude of ways....

Religious connection...From biblical times the land of Israel, promised by Hashem, has been inhabited by Jews. The torah mentions Jerusalem, Hebron, Shechem, etc...and that is proof enough that our claim to the land (or at least PART of the land) is not only justified, but factually responsible.

Historical connection...Beginning with the founder of modern Zionism Theodor Herzl. After the first World War and the collapse of the Ottoman Empire, the British Mandate of Palestine began. 3 years later in 1917, the Balfour Declaration gave the Jews Palestine as a national homeland, sanctioned by the League of Nations, the precursor to todays United Nations. Even though the British decided to partition Palestine into 2 states, one Jewish, one Arab (78% becoming Jordan, 22% designated to become the State of Israel), they once again partitioned the remaining 22% into another Arab state (45% of the remaining land) and then Israel (55% of the remaining land). It should be noted that the land given to Israel in the 1947 Partition plan was not continuous and included the Negev, which even today has not been completely mapped. To this the Jews celebrated, while our neighbours declared war on us.

Socio-cultural connection...what was the first modern city founded by the Jews in Israel? 1909-Tel Aviv. When Mark Twain visited Israel in the 19th Century, he remarked that the land was nothing more than swamp and desert, fitting for the Jewish people. Even he, an outspoken anti-Semite, realized that only us Jews could make the desert bloom and build for ourselves a land in which we would lead the world in innovations (scientific, medical, military, academic, etc...).

Present day reality....With the horrors of the Holocaust fading from our collective consciousness (for better or for worse), the nations of the world have begun the anti-Semitic diatribe that forced our grandparents into ghettos and into hiding. Have we learnt nothing from our past? While having superpowers as friends is a great thing, do not fool yourself into thinking that we can rely on these friends when push comes to shove. If history has taught us anything (and we have a lot of history), it is that only one people can help the Jewish people...the Jewish people. With assimilation and inter marriage climbing steadily, as well as us, as a people, moving away from our religion, we are setting the stage for another atrocity that can decimate the Jewish faith. Unless we wake up and realize that this is a war against our faith, times ahead will mirror those of the past. G-d blessed us many times, promising that we will number the stars in the sky and the sands in the desert, but unless we pro-actively determine to make it work, it will not happen.

Do not expect miracles, for we have to work for those as well.

This is a wake up call to the entire Jewish people. Do not let our destiny fall into the hands of our enemies again. Do not allow ourselves to be lulled into a false sense of security. Do not stand idly by as our brothers and sisters lose their lives defending what belongs to us.

Support Israel. Support Judaism. Because if you don't, who will?

KoKo B. Ware

2005-05-30T16:01:00.000-04:00

While KoKo may be the most underrated professional wrestler of his era, KoKo is also the nickname of one of my oldest, dearest friends. As such, I salute you....even though I will kick your lily white tuchus come hockey season.

Today I met the most wonderful, dedicated and warm hearted person ever...Shannon Shibata, from Stand With Us. A non-Jew, she is dedicated to Israel, aiding victims of terror and being an unbelievable advocate for the Jewish state and her causes. Her story is one which touched the entire group, and I hope she can share her story with others this year back home. I really cannot express the degree in which she touched all our hearts, and I know her story will touch all of you once you hear it.

Also, if you are familiar with The Hebrew Hammer, you will recall the scene at Ben Gurion where our protagonist, Mordechai Jefferson Carver, tries to rent a car from Hertz. Remember the lady at the desk? Well her name is Ayelet and works with me handling the Jerusalem Fellowships...what a small world!!! She also does stand up as the Kosher Comic, and let me tell you, she is hilarious (in an orthodox sort of way).

Anyhoo, time for bed...my stomach is finally at peace after El Gaucho's last night and all you can eat sushi (that's right, I ate sushi) at the David Citadel hotel.

Tomorrow the group heads down south to Sderot to see with our eyes the damage and pain caused by terrorists on our brave brothers and sisters who still believe in 'Eretz Yisrael haShleima'. May G-d continue to protect them and all of Bnei Yisrael. Amen.

What a meal

2005-05-29T16:23:00.000-04:00

Funny that the thing I'll remember most about today's activities was dinner. I ate the fattest, juiciest, most tender piece of cow to ever touch my lips. El Gaucho's is heaven on earth, a veritable Garden of Eden. Wow....I can still taste the flesh slowly crawling down my esophagus...oh, what a feeling!!!!

Seriously though, we met with Allan Barkat who discussed Israel and high tech. Yoram Binur, of Arutz Shtayim, was mesmerizing. His grasp on the Palestinian community knows no bounds and the students, as well as myself, gained a tremendous amount of knowledge. Israid (Save A Child's Heart....remember...I used to have hair!!!) was great. B'tzelem was....well, it was B'tzelem.

The group dynamics is getting tight, which I like. While they're young, they're eager to learn and ask questions and what more could I ask for. I love it here...spending time with Esther, Mott, Sara, Yehuda Tzvi and everyone else, but I could really use a vacation.

I miss you all and wish you the best, especially Ma, Bubby and dad in Montreal. I love you all and miss you tons. Please be well and safe and happy. Lots of love....

2005-05-28T08:35:00.000-04:00

overview of 1949 armistice line

2005-05-28T08:33:00.000-04:00

group at Castel

2005-05-28T08:30:00.000-04:00

hard at work...

Get caught up....

2005-05-28T07:40:00.000-04:00

What an amazing week....going up North to Haon, gaining a better understanding of the wars ('67, '73) and its implications today, peering into Syria, Jordan and Lebanon, bonfires on the beach, Egon in Yerushalayim and now shabbos in Tel Aviv. My poor Pollack skin is definitely taking a toll....it's hot, hot, hot!!!

The program is progressing nicely, a nice mix of old and new programming. Met Rona Davis, the 6th place finisher in the hit Israeli reality TV show 'HaShagrir' (the ambassador)...very cool. Most of the students are learning, asking questions and preparing for the upcoming year. As good as last year was for Jews on Canadian campuses, I know this year will be even better. By concentrating on effective messaging and sticking to them, as well as setting concrete and attainable goals, I believe these students will return to their Jewish groups on campus and improve them substantially.

I love the staff I work with (minus the worst bus driver in the State), as well as the time I can spend with Esther and also the growing Stenge clan (maybe clan isn't the best word...).

Although I do miss the easy, simple (and sometimes mundane) life in Canada, Israel is my home. Actually, if you're reading this, Israel is probably your home too.

Don't you want to come home???

4 hours away....

2005-05-23T06:58:00.000-04:00

The NJCL trip is a mere four hours away, and I can't wait!!! After spending a week in Israel already, it's nice to know that a group of motivated students are on their way to learn, experience and educate. I have no doubt that these students will internalize all we have to give, thus making them more efeective on campus come September.

Also, I have accepted the position of Hillel Director (read advisor) at Queen's U starting this fall. I look forward to the challenges of the job, and to working with students I know hold Israel and Judaism very near and dear to their hearts.

I do wonder, though, how the Canadian political climate has shifted during my prolonged absence. Could decriminalization of marijuana be next on the Red and White (and Green) agenda? Only time will tell....and the headlines, of course!!!

Da Vinci Code

2005-05-21T17:01:00.000-04:00

Just started reading it this afternoon and I have no doubt it will be a quick read. Shabbos in Yerushalayim was awesome, but I wouldn't expect anything less. Off to Tel Aviv tomorrow and the first hasbara trip arrives Monday evening. Life here is good, and the more I stay the more I want to stay. Oh well...I guess only time will tell. Shavua Tov......

Good Shabbos

2005-05-20T06:22:00.000-04:00

Went to new Yad Vashem today...one word----phenomenal.

Good shabbos to all, except, of course, Blonde Ambition aka Belinda Stronach...

Peace and all that.....

Oh my....

2005-05-19T00:32:00.000-04:00

Belinda crossed the line and now it seems our Liberal leaders have stayed their execution. The question remains...Why is a corrupt Liberal government preferable to any alternative? Why is our country painted Red and White, when we are still feeling the sting of the sponsorship scandal? I guess Canadians prefer Red and White to Black and Blue. Either way, I am in the Holy Land and all I can think of is that Canadian politics really is quite interesting. But I digress.....after an 11 hour delay, I finally arrived in Tel Aviv early Monday morning. The group visited a bird sanctuary, the Canada Centre (I Shot a .22 pistol, yay!!), took a Jeep ride along the road that the Israelis defeated the entrenched Syrian army in '67 and other wonderful activities. I can't express what a pleasure this trip is...and to share it with my mom and Charlie, as well as the Ottawa Jewish community, brings a smile to my face. But the bus is taking off so..this is Schwartz, I'm out!!!

I love Canadian politics...

2005-05-12T13:40:00.000-04:00

Man, if there was a time I wish I was in Ottawa, it would be for the month of June. With evil incarnate halfway out the door, nothing would bring me more joy than to watch the downward spiral in which the Liberals are in the midst come to a full and exciting finish. The Bloc will sweep Quebec, the Conservatives will make gains in Ontario, Alberta and Manitoba and the rest should show us a slight drop for the lefties, thus keeping the Liberals close. But mark my words, come July 1st, 2005 the House will be controlled by some sort of Conservative-Bloc alliance. Now if Harper just supported separation.....

Avi's Adventures

2005-05-11T13:27:00.000-04:00

Welcome!!!!

This blog's purpose is to keep all my loved ones up to date on my travels through the Jewish State this summer and it's a way for me to continue to complain about the world state of affairs.....with hopefully someone listening.

I hope that you will enjoy Israel through my eyes and I welcome my readers to post their opinions often!!!!