Itamar News - December 30th 2011

Special request to all Itamar supporters: Unfortunately, since the destruction of our new hilltop Givat Ariyeh, just a month or ago, our new camera system which was knocked out of commission by the Israeli army and police has not been reinstalled. The Israeli defense forces destroyed the infrastructure of the camera by ripping out the entire electric box and wiring. The estimated cost to fix this is around 45 thousand shekels. The army claims that if we leave the hilltop they will reinstall the camera. In the meantime, Itamar is left without a camera and in danger of infiltration. In addition, Itamar’s security officer is in desperate need of a trained watch dog that can patrol the community with him. The estimated cost is about 30 thousand shekels. Anyone who can help us reinstall this camera and purchase this dog would be doing a tremendous service for our community. Shabbat Shalom and thank you! Rabbi Moshe Goldsmith.
This week the Itamar youth marched from Itamar with torches to the army base below, lit candles and danced with our soldiers to show our solidarity with our brothers that are defending our homeland. Itamar stands with the IDF!

A beautiful community Chanukah party was held on Itamar this week. One of the main themes of the party was to introduce the new members of Itamar to the veterans and connect with one another. I was an amazing evening. There were different kind of games and activities. We recommend it for all communities.

Mazal tov to rav Uzi Damari for making it to the national Bible contest of Israel which took place in Benyany Haumah this week. Rabbi Demari is known for his vast knowledge in Tanach which is his love in life. You can’t find him without a bible in his hand. Unfortunately, Rabbi Uzi did not win the contest but he came in 4^th place on the written test among the thirteen candidates who reached the finals. Enclosed is picture of Rav Damari standing on a deck with a view of the border like between the tribe of Efayim and Menasha as outlined in the book of Joshuah.
Itamar welcomed its dear friend Chesky Wertman who came to visit the community. Chesky is one of Itamar’s oldest friends who stood behind us during some very troubling times.
Mazal tov to Amichay and Yiscah Azulay on the birth of a son this week.
Mazal tov to Yisrael Chay and Milcah on the birth of a daughter this week.
Mazal tov to Shilo and Hadas on a birth of a son this week.
Itamar welcomed a group of college students throughout America that came to hear about the community from Mayor Goldsmith. It was a very successful evening and the students were very interested and moved by their visit.
Read Leah’s new Torah thought for the week.
Watch Rabbi Goldsmith’s new torah lesson on the weekly portion which talks about taking responsibility.