Menachem Begin Heritage Center Bulletin 14, Vol. 5

Menachem Begin
Heritage Center, Jerusalem
Volume 5, Issue 14
January 25, 2009
Total Number of Visitors Since October 2004: 465,861

Facing a Budgetary Challenge
The government of Israel, forced to go to elections in February, was not able to pass the 2009 State budget before the end of December 2008. In such cases, the law in Israel stipulates that the previous year's basic budget will be the reference point for the allocation from the State for the following year. As a result of this, the Begin Center is left with a State budget allocation of 2.9 million shekels for 2009. For 2008, the Begin Center received 6.9 million shekels which was the basic budget and the addition of a special allocation of 4 million shekels. Herzl Makov, Chairman of the Begin Center, and Dalia Rabin, Chairperson of the Rabin Center (operating with similar State funding), met with the Minister of the Treasury and succeeded in raising the allocation from 2.9 million shekels to 5 million shekels. This budget will remain in place until the Knesset approves the State budget which is expected to occur in June 2009.
We realize that even in June it won't be easy to increase the State budget taking into consideration that Israel is facing, along with the rest of the world, an economic depression that will require significant resources to overcome. Besides that, Israel just completed the operation in Gaza, which is a large expense incurred by the Security budget, regardless of all other aspects of that operation.
In light of this budgetary challenge, the Begin Center will be required to make dramatic cuts in our ability to provide the whole scope of quality programs that we are so proud to have at the Begin Center. However, to help minimize the effect, we are launching fundraising campaigns in the US, Canada, Australia and the UK in the next few months in order to ensure continuation of the important work that is being done here. We will, of course, call upon our friends and supporters to help us overcome this challenge.

Successful Internet Campaign
Coordinated with an advertisement campaign launched on Ynet, a major internet news site in Israel, the redesigned Begin Center website in Hebrew was launched and increased its online traffic tenfold. This, of course, means that the presence of the Begin Center is accessible to a worldwide community. We hope to launch the website in English in the very near future.

From the Education Department
First school completes Junior Knesset curriculum
The Dafna Junior High School from Kiryat Bialik became the first school this year to come to the Begin Center for their concluding day of the Junior Knesset curriculum. The concluding day consists of putting into action all the theories that they learned over the course of the semester regarding the process of passing a law. The students come to the Begin Center and, using the unique layout in the Reuben Hecht Auditorium which is a replica of the Knesset chamber, take on various roles to simulate passing a law in the Knesset. Their visit to Jerusalem included a visit to the real Knesset and a trip through the Menachem Begin Museum.

Agreement with the Jerusalem police for leadership workshops
Recently the Begin Center signed and agreement with the Jerusalem police to bring 60 groups of policemen who will go through the museum and participate in a workshop developed by the education department of the Begin Center entitled "In the Public Service". The workshop focuses on the motivation of individuals to serve the public and elements of character that inspire someone to serve the nation. These concepts are based on the ideals and heritage of Menachem Begin who spent his entire life in public service. As an added element of the workshop experience, the police groups will take a walking tour of Yemin Moshe, the neighborhood next to the Begin Center, "In the Footsteps of Avraham Kirshenbaum," who was a fighter in all three Underground movements during the British Mandatory period and who died defending Yemin Moshe, the neighborhood he grew up in and where his family still lived (and still live today).

New in the Archives
Recently declassified dossier delivered by Romanian Ambassador
A few weeks ago, the Romanian Ambassador Dr. Valeria Mariana Stoica visited the Menachem Begin Heritage Center to deliver a dossier to the Begin Center Archives. It was a recently declassified file regarding Prime Minister Menachem Begin's first visit to Romania and the correspondence with Romanian President Nicolae Ceauşescu which opened a line of communication with Egypt that led to the invitation for President Anwar Sadat to visit Israel and to begin the historic peace process.

Oral History Project Continues
The Oral History Project at the Begin Center Archives continues to conduct interviews with people who remember the life and times of Menachem Begin. Recently, the Archives staff met with Ra'anana Meridor, the widow of Eliyahu Meridor, who shared memories of the time of Irgun and the beginning of the Herut Party. Prof. Moshe Sharon, who had been the advisor on Arabic matters from 1978-1979, also provided an interview.

Events
Past events
Another successful Nahum Heyman sing-along evening took place on Tuesday, January 20at 8:00pm highlighting the songs of Mordechai Ze'era and Ya'acov Orland. The Reuben Hecht Auditorium was filled with enthusiastic supporters of Hebrew song.

Upcoming Events
Date Change: The 4th annual Elitzur Lecture will take place on Monday, February 16 at 5:30pm. Details will follow in later bulletins. This event will be in English.

On January 25, five secular pre-army training courses will have a pre-election conference at the Begin Center to learn more about the party platforms and hear from candidates. There will be three panels covering the Economy, Education and Welfare, Defense and Foreign Affairs. Herzl Makov, Chairman of the Menachem Begin Heritage Center, will present opening remarks and a short movie will be shown about Menachem Begin. This event is not open to the public.

Visit our blog: http://begincenterdiary.blogspot.com/
The Menachem Begin Heritage Center
6 Nahon Street Jerusalem 94110 ISRAEL
972 (2) 565-2020; Fax: 972 (2) 565-2010

offices@begincenter.org.il http://www.begincenter.org.il/

Menachem Begin Heritage Center Bulletin 13, Vol. 5

Menachem Begin
Heritage Center, Jerusalem
Volume 5, Issue 13
January 15, 2009
Total Number of Visitors Since October 2004: 464,375

Doing Our Part for Citizens in the South
As part of the Begin Center's involvement in extending social services for the residents of the southern part of Israel surrounding Gaza, we have made available to bone fide residents a free tour in the Museum. Dafna Shkedy, the Museum's director, has reported that as of today, 540 persons, members of organized groups, have gone through the Museum as well as an additional 156 persons, mostly families.
The Center is proud to offer its assistance, along with other cultural institutions in Jerusalem, to help alleviate the feelings of anxiety the population under missile attack are undergoing. From some of the comments, we have learned that the character of Menachem Begin, as a leader and as a stalwart believer in the Jewish People and its national purpose, has been of help to them in this difficult period.
One of the participants in this outreach effort, the Abbu Family, wrote a letter of appreciation, noting that they were quite grateful to have been able to visit a "site which instills love for our dear country which enabled us to learn about the people who have brought us this far and granted us, the Jewish people, the ability to be who we are. Thanks to all those involved in this sacred task."

Begin Center Website Launched in Hebrew
After much work and preparation, the new Menachem Begin Heritage Center website in Hebrew was launched this week. We are still working out a few bugs and issues, as can be expected, but we invite you to peruse the site at http://www.begincenter.org.il/ to see the new look and style of the Begin Center presence on the internet.
We hope to launch our site in English in February.


Junior Knesset Workshop in English
A group of students from Chicagoland Jewish High School participating in a three-week Senior Israel Experience program came to the Begin Center this week to take part in a modified version of the Junior Knesset program. Rather than teach an entire semester of civics before coming to a concluding day at the Begin Center in which students re-enact the passing of a law, this workshop forum allows students to arrive, gain some background knowledge and on a single issue, go through the process of passing a law in the Knesset.
The young people from Chicago were very enthusiastic and enjoyed the experiential workshop that allowed them to achieve an understanding of the Israeli political scene from the inside out.
Aaron Weinberg said, "It was so much fun. I'm on the debate team…I love Israeli politics and Israel." Jeremy Hulkower said, "It was certainly interesting and fascinating. It was fun to be Prime Minister for a day. It gave me a chance to learn more about Israeli politics."

Upcoming Events
Nahum Heyman's next sing-along evening will be on Tuesday, January 20at 8:00pm highlighting the songs of Mordechai Ze'era and Ya'acov Orland. This event will be in Hebrew.
* * * * *
The 4th annual Elitzur Lecture will take place on Monday, February 16 at 5:30pm. Details will follow in later bulletins. This event will be in English.
* * * * *
An evening to remember Avraham "Yair" Stern will take place on Wednesday, February 18. Details will follow in later bulletins. This event will be in Hebrew.

Visit our other blog: http://begincenterdiary.blogspot.com/
The Menachem Begin Heritage Center
6 Nahon Street Jerusalem 94110 ISRAEL
972 (2) 565-2020; Fax: 972 (2) 565-2010
offices@begincenter.org.il http://www.begincenter.org.il/

Menachem Begin Heritage Center Bulletin 12, Vol. 5

Menachem Begin
Heritage Center, Jerusalem
Volume 5, Issue 12
January 8, 2009
Total Number of Visitors Since October 2004: 463,098

The Songs of Natan Alterman
This week Nahum Heyman ("Nakh'che") presented a program on the songs of Natan Alterman in the history of Israeli music. This performance series is quite interesting because Natan Alterman and the others that are featured in the other performances are not songwriters, per se. They are poets who published poetry prior to Israel's existence and after. Later, their words were put to music and became popular Israeli songs.
The Reuben Hecht Auditorium was nearly full with an audience ready and enthusiastic to sing along to some of Alterman's songs. The singer that evening was Chani Livneh and there was a special performance by an Israeli folk dancing troupe. The guest lecturer was Chaim Guri, a songwriter, who was a friend of Natan Alterman. The evening concluded with the sing-along that the audience happily joined.
The next Nahum Heyman evening will be January 20 at 8:00pm about Mordechai Ze'era and Ya'acov Orland. Tickets are 40 NIS and reservations are required. Call (02) 565-2020.

Parashat HaShavua: News and Updates
The very successful Rohr Family Parashat HaShavua program will be finishing the first book of the Torah, Bereshit/Genesis, this week. We thank Dr. Ido Hevroni for his excellent lectures these past two months. We welcome next week Rabbi Yermi Stavitsky,the principal of the religious boys' high school, Himmelfarb, who will be the primary lecturer on the portions of the week in Shemot/Exodus.
Starting next Sunday, the Begin Center will launch an internet campaign to advertise the Parashat HaShavua in the Judaism section of Ynet. Links will be provided in the bulletin next week.

Note to Our Readers
In preparation for the launch of our new website, you may experience difficulty in accessing the current website. Look for details next week on the website launch, which will be at the same website address www.begincenter.org.il.

In Brief
Rachel Glazer, who was once an intern at the Begin Center, visited leading a group of university students on a tour of Israel under the auspices of the ZOA. Yisrael Medad, Director of the Information Resources Unit, spoke to them about hasbara issues and how to bring the information that they learn on this trip back to campus with them.
Groups who are interested in more that just a visit to the museum, can coordinate with the reservations department to request a speaker from the Begin Center to give a short presentation on a variety of topics.
* * * * *
Shelly Goldberg's course, an introduction to Kabbalah, ended last week and was very successful. We hope to be able to plan more courses on an assortment of subjects in the future.
* * * * *
Not all of Israel's soldiers were in the South this week, as a large group who are in officer's training came to the Begin Center to visit the museum.

Visit our blog: http://begincenterdiary.blogspot.com/
The Menachem Begin Heritage Center
6 Nahon Street Jerusalem 94110 ISRAEL
972 (2) 565-2020; Fax: 972 (2) 565-2010
offices@begincenter.org.il www.begincenter.org.il

December in Pictures, a few more

Herzl Makov, Chairman of the Menachem Begin

Heritage Center at the Begin Prize Ceremony

MK Reuven Rivlin speaks at the Begin Prize ceremony

The audience at the scholarship awards ceremony in the
Large Seminar Room at the Begin Center

The marimba player at the scholarship awards ceremony

Herzl Makov with HE Valeria Stoica, Ambassador of Romania

Herzl Makov with HE Valeria Stoica, Ambassador of Romania

Menachem Begin Heritage Center Bulletin 11, Vol. 5

Menachem Begin
Heritage Center, Jerusalem
Volume 5, Issue 11
January 1, 2009
Total Number of Visitors Since October 2004: 461,569

A Busy December in Pictures

Dr. Reuven Or (left) receives the prize from Moshe Nissim(center) and Yechiel Kadishai(right)
Harold "Smoky" Simon (center) receives a certificate of honor from Moshe Nissim and Yechiel Kadishai



Prof. Moshe Arens receives a certificate of honor from Moshe Nissim and Yechiel Kadishai


HE Valeria Stoica Ambassador of Romania (right) in Israel visited with Herzl Makov, Head of the MBHC



Prof. Jacek Perchla speaks at the opening of the special photo exhibition "A World Before Catastrophe" on Krakow between the World Wars


The Young Jerusalem Saxophone Group


A full audience in the Reuben Hecht Auditorium for the opening of the exhibition



Moshe Fuksman-Sha'al (left), Herzl Makov (center) and Freda Hurwitz (right) at the Scholarship Awards Ceremony




Avivit Mahatsri, recipient of the I.H. Asper Scholarship
speaks on behalf of all the recipients


Dr. Harel Doron gave a short presentation about his scholarship-winning work, "The New Rabbis in the National Religious Camp"


The eight days of Chanukah were a very busy time at the Begin Center with major events with hundreds of people attending and 1,468 people who entered the museum over the eight-day period (6.5 days of the Center and museum being open)—some of the days of Chanukah, every single tour of the day was full.
For more pictures, please visit our other blog: http://begincenterdiary.blogspot.com/

Building our Research Capabilities

Two new academic research articles have recently been published which were acquired for the Begin Center Library. The first is British Intelligence and the Mandate of Palestine: Threats to British National Security Immediately After the Second World War by Calder Walton and the second is British Intelligence and the Jewish Resistance Movement in the Palestine Mandate, 1945-46 by Steven Wagner. Both appeared in Intelligence and National Security, Volume 23, Issue 4 August 2008.
These articles have made use of recently released files previously unavailable to researchers and provide a wealth of information and we are sure visitors and students to the Hasten Family Library will be able to produce better studies of that period now that we possess these articles. We are aware that many similar papers are being published or presented at academic conferences and are making efforts to obtain them so that our information and resource units can provide the public all they need.

Junior Knesset in Spanish

The Education Department of the Begin Center has recently launched an abbreviated version of the Junior Knesset program as an hour and a half workshop for young people who are visiting the country on Birthright-type trips or participating in other MASA programs.
This week, a several groups from Argentina participated in the program. The original workshop format is in English and the suggested program allows participants to take on the major roles in the Knesset in order to pass a law.
We hope to see this program expand to other languages and to other groups.

Our Condolences

The Menachem Begin Heritage Center extends its condolences to former Likud MK Amal Nasr'aldin (1977-1988) of the Druze community on the loss of his grandson, Lutfi, who, as a reserve soldier, was the IDF's first casualty in the current Gaza "Cast Lead" Operation. Amal Nasr'aldin has visited the Center several times and initiated the publication, in Arabic with Hebrew translation, of a book on Menachem Begin as well as hosting a Begin Center event in Daliyat Al-Carmel. Lutfi was killed when his army camp was bombarded by Hamas rockets on December 29th.

Mazal Tov

To Dafna Shkedi of the Begin Center who was awarded this year's prize for Outstanding Employee. Dafna is in charge of the museum operations, in which she oversees the guides' training, deals with technical issues and adjustments in the museum and coordinates the activities to ensure our visitors have a good museum experience, from reservation to exit from the Jerusalem Elevator.

* * * * *

Yisrael Medad, Director of the Begin Center Information & Educational Resources Unit, was invited to participate in a Political Science departmental seminar at the Hebrew University at which Dr. Chares Demetriou presented a paper on "Political Violence and Legitimation: The Episode of Colonial Cyprus". In the ensuing discussion, Demetriou expressed interest to further learn of the history of the Irgun within an academic comparative framework. It is Medad's intention to expand the Center's academic research connections in the field of study of National Liberation Movements.

Visitors

A few of our friends from Canada stopped by the Begin Center this week. Moe Levy from Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada, representing the Asper Foundation stopped by with Shai Abramson, the Asper Foundation representative in Israel. Lou and Dvora Silver of Toronto also stopped by.
From the US—though originally from South Africa—Abraham and Taubene Hoppenstein visited the Center as well.

Visit our other blog: http://begincenterdiary.blogspot.com/
The Menachem Begin Heritage Center
6 Nahon Street Jerusalem 94110 ISRAEL
972 (2) 565-2020; Fax: 972 (2) 565-2010
offices@begincenter.org.il http://www.begincenter.org.il/

Menachem Begin Heritage Center Bulletin 10, Vol. 5

Menachem Begin
Heritage Center, Jerusalem
Volume 5, Issue 10
Total Number of Visitors Since October 2004: 460,404

The Menachem Begin Prize Ceremony 2008

Before a full Reuben Hecht Auditorium and in the presence of MK Reuven Rivlin, the Menachem Begin Prize 2008 was awarded to Dr. Reuven Or for his critical medical and research work and for the establishment of two essential life-saving projects: the unrelated volunteer bone marrow donor registry and the national umbilical cord bank. Dr. Or is offering the hope of health for many people who are ill and who, for whatever reason, are unable to receive a bone marrow donation from a family member. Clearly thrilled to be receiving this recognition, Dr. Or peppered his speech with quotes from Uri Zvi Greenberg, Shai Agnon and other literary figures.
Harold "Smoky" Simon was honored for his many years of volunteer activity for the State of Israel and its society. His volunteering life for the State of Israel began in the War of Independence in 1948 as a member of the volunteer air force and eventual official appointment as the first Operations Commander of the IAF, and his volunteering activities only grew from that point, including working with Menachem Begin from South Africa, and continue even today. He is the Chairman of World Machal and recently organized an international gathering for Machal members to visit Israel for the 60th anniversary of the state, as well as acting as the Honorary Treasurer for the Menachem Begin Heritage Foundation.
Prof. Moshe Arens was honored for his contribution to the security of the state of Israel and his illuminating research on the Warsaw Ghetto Uprising. Moshe Arens began his career in Betar and in the government served as Minister of Defense, Foreign Minister, Israel's Ambassador to the US and currently he serves as the Chairman of the Ariel University Center of Samaria's Board of Governors. His most recent work has been researching the Betar organization's involvement during the Warsaw Ghetto Uprising. He found that Pavel Frankel was a forgotten hero of the Muranovska Square battle and who had been a leader of the Betar group in the Warsaw Ghetto. This led to recognition of the Betar involvement in the Uprising both in Poland and in Israel.
A number of students were honored with scholarship awards from the Menachem and Aliza Begin Nobel Prize Fund, a fund that was started by Menachem Begin with the proceeds of the Nobel Prize he received in 1978.
The evening was emceed by Herzl Makov, Chairman of the Menachem Begin Heritage Center, and music was provided by the Boarder Guards singing group. Yosef Wittelson lit the third candle of Chanukah at the opening of the evening.

Opening of "A World Before Catastrophe"

On the first night of Chanukah, the Begin Center hosted the opening of a special exhibition brought from Krakow, Poland, called "A World Before Catastrophe". It is the exploration and documentation of the Jewish community in Krakow between the two World Wars. Many organizations cooperated with the Begin Center to bring this exhibit to Israel including the International Cultural Centre in Krakow (the original location of the exhibit), the Polish Embassy in Israel, The Polish Institute, the Poland@Israel as part of the Polish Year in Israel 2008/9, the Landsmanschaft of Krakow Jews in Israel and the Adam Mickiewicz Institute.
The Reuben Hecht Auditorium was filled to capacity with many members of the audience remembering Krakow as it was presented in the exhibit and who were very moved to see the exhibition here at the Begin Center. Aryeh Golan, a senior Kol Yisrael program moderater, was the host for the evening and the ceremony was opened with short speeches by Herzl Makov, Chairman of the Begin Center, Her Excellency Agnieszka Magziak-Miszewska, the ambassador of Poland in Israel and David Reiser, the President of the Landsmanschaft of Krakow Jews in Israel. The main speakers that evening were Prof. Jacek Purchla, historian and author of the catalogue of the exhibition, and His Excellency Prof. Shevach Weiss, Israel's Ambassador to Poland. The Young Jerusalem Saxophone Group gave the musical performances during the evening.
The exhibition will be on display in the auditorium foyer at the Begin Center for free until April 15, 2009. The high quality catalogue is available in Hebrew at the Klein Souvenir Store at the Begin Center (it is a translation of the Polish/English one that was published in Poland).

December 1981: Golan Heights Law

Twenty-seven years ago, the Knesset, by a two-thirds majority, passed the Golan Heights Law which extends Israeli law to the Golan Heights. With its passing, the US declared that it would "punish Israel". Begin did not wish to stand by and allow the "punishment" to pass without comment. He issued a statement on 20 December 1981 that he read to the US Ambassador to Israel, read to the Cabinet and issued to the public. In it he says:
A week ago, at the instance of the Government, the Knesset passed on all three readings by an overwhelming majority of two-thirds, the "Golan Heights Law."
Now you once again declare that you are punishing Israel.
What kind of expression is this – "punishing Israel"? Are we a vassal state of yours? Are we a banana republic? Are we youths of fourteen who, if they don't behave properly, are slapped across the fingers?
Let me tell you who this government is composed of. It is composed of people whose lives were spent in resistance, in fighting and in suffering. You will not frighten us with "punishments." He who threatens us will find us deaf to his threats. We are only prepared to listen to rational arguments.
…As regards the future, please be kind enough to inform the Secretary of State that the Golan Heights Law will remain valid. There is no force on earth that can bring about its rescission.

December 30: Annual Research Scholarship Awards

On December 30 the Menachem Begin Heritage Center will host a ceremony to award scholarships to outstanding research work in fields related to Menachem Begin, his life, achievements and heritage. Three scholarships will be awarded for research work at the Doctorate and Master's level. Ya'acov Hecht wrote on the topic of politics and the diplomatic process before the strike on Osirak (the Iraqi nuclear reactor); Yaron Salman wrote on the psychological blocks of the Peace Process; and Harel Doron wrote about the "new rabbis" in the National Religious camp. Four scholarships will be awarded for seminar papers at the Bachelor level. Avivit Mahatstri, who will be receiving the scholarship named after the late Izzy Asper of Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada, wrote about Menachem Begin and Anwar Sadat in the Peace Process; Oded Mazor wrote about the idea of the "victim" with respect to the reparations from Germany; Tal Koifman wrote about religion in the Underground; and four authors, Eli Cohen, Doron Liba, Aviad Korman and Eliav Raviv, share the honor for their paper about Menachem Begin and Dr. Beny Begin and their rhetoric speaking styles.
RSVPs are required to attend the event as space is limited. (02) 565-2020 to reserve a place.

Outside Events at the Begin Center

This week the B'nai Brith World Center-Jerusalem utilized the conference rooms here at the Begin Center. Philippe Karsenty gave a lecture about his court case in France regarding the Al Dura Affair, in which he was the successful defendant against France 2 television, and spoke about Israel and the media. He gave his lecture in English one day and in French the next.

* * * * *

The Jewish Agency is holding a brainstorming session at the Begin Center to redefine the role of the shaliach in Jewish communities abroad.

No Parashat HaShavua this Week

To our readers in Israel who attend the Parashat HaShavua on Thursdays, there will not be a lecture this week. We look forward to seeing you again next week when the Parashat HaShavua returns next week.

We wish all our Readers
a Happy and Joyous Chanukah Holiday!!!

Visit our blog: http://begincenterdiary.blogspot.com/
The Menachem Begin Heritage Center
6 Nahon Street Jerusalem 94110 ISRAEL
972 (2) 565-2020; Fax: 972 (2) 565-2010

offices@begincenter.org.il www.begincenter.org.il

Menachem Begin Heritage Center Bulletin 9, Vol. 5

Menachem Begin
Heritage Center, Jerusalem
Volume 5, Issue 9
Total Number of Visitors Since October 2004: 457,911

December 1948:
Menachem Begin's First US Visit (part 3)

This week we present Part 3, the last of the three-part series on Menachem Begin's first visit to the United States based on a recent donation of archival materials given to the Begin Center Archives by Mrs. Estelle Friedman, who was married to the late Elitzur Friedman, Irgun Field commander and Herut emissary to the United States.

* * * * *

The Answer, the newspaper of the Hebrew Committee for National Liberation, reported on the speech Menachem Begin gave in New York at the end of his first trip to the US. Begin spoke in Yiddish before several thousand people in the Manhattan Center on December 14, 1948. His remarks focused on the Chanukah story of the Maccabees.

In those days too, before the fight began, we were a minority in our own country under the yoke of a once-great empire whose strength began to wane. In those days too, we faced surrender or complete annihilation. In those days too, a minority within the minority raised the banner of rebellion against the enemy; in those days too there were collaborators and assimilationists who besmirched the noble patriots, betrayed them to the enemy and called them the same names we were called in our time—with the exception of "fascists" and "gangsters"—probably because in those days those terms were not yet known.
Undaunted by betrayal and the overwhelming forces of the enemy, the Maccabees fought on until victory was theirs, until a small part of their homeland in the hills of Judea was liberated. And from those hills they swept down into the valleys, they freed Galilee, they freed the coast and they freed the south. And within a generation or two, a great Hebrew State, the greatest in the Middle East was established and consolidated.
The same is bound to happen in our days…not because of our desire for expansionism, not because of our love of fighting. We hate war. We hate it because we have no more blood to shed because for 80 generations we always were the victims of war, because ours is a great hunger for peace for ourselves and for our little children, who were born into turmoil and have never yet known a day of peace and quiet. It is bound to come because we are compelled to break out from the straitjacket in which we are being confined by economic, geographic and political reasons, by the very urge to survive, by the very choice which we face: to break out from the ghetto, to retrieve all of our homeland or to be pushed into the sea and perish. …
A foreign princeling, a man who doesn't belong to Palestine, a man from the Arabian Desert, a hireling of his British overlords, is ruling over four-fifths of the Hebrew homeland by the grace of Britain…and this foreigner has the temerity to proclaim himself "King of Palestine." This foreigner aspires to ascend the throne of David, to make Jerusalem—the eternal city of the eternal people—his capital. If this intrigue should succeed, then you must realize that in the very heart of our country, only five miles from Petach Tikvah, there will be Abdullah's guns, or rather, British guns…
Should this intrigue succeed, we shall find ourselves walled in—and strangling in a ghetto in which there will be no room for the millions of our brothers who are compelled to come back home, for the millions of our brothers who do not want to remain in places where they are not wanted, to the millions of our brothers who have but one desire—to come back to the land of their fathers…
A people who for two thousand years were denied the elementary right to self determination are like a suffocating man suddenly brought into the open air. On November 29, 1947, some of my brothers were incapable of thinking. All they could grasp was a gust of fresh air. Now, one year later, the drunkenness is dispelled. Now our people are sober—all of them—and now we all realize that not the ink on a document of the UN, but the blood of our fighters on the battlefields of our country will determine the frontiers of our State…
We have to expel the invaders from our country, not because we want war but because we want peace, real peace, a stable peace, peace with prosperity and without hostile foreign armies in the very heart of our land and on the threshold of our cities.
Our soldiers, the soldiers of the Irgun, the soldiers of the Hagana, the soldiers of the Lechi, our soldiers who served their country with their guns and their blood, now want to continue to serve their country with their plowshares and their sweat. We owe it to them and to their children. We must bring peace to them and this cannot be done as long as our whole country is not free.
Other Events at the Begin Center
The Begin Center facilities are often utilized by other groups for their special events. This week the Center served the needs of a variety of groups and activities.

* * * * *

The Begin Center was the venue of a special conference convened by MK Prof. Arieh Eldad and the Ariel Center for Policy Research entitled, "Facing Jihad", on December 14 which included a public screening of Fitna, the controversial documentary about Islam – intended to educate the Israeli and general public about the true nature of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. The sessions were addressed by many experts on Islam and the Middle East including Dutch Parliamentarian Geert Wilders. Among the other speakers were: Prof. John Lewis, Dr. David Bukay, Itamar Marcus, Prof. Shlomo Sharan and Daniel Pipes. The auditorium was full and the event attracted much media interest.

* * * * *

On Saturday night and Monday night this week, four special screenings took place at the Begin Center of the film A Light for Greytowers which coincided with the Jewish Film Festival. This is the film's premier in Israel. The Reuben Hecht Auditorium was full for each of the somewhat controversial screenings. The film was meant to be shown to women-only audiences, but the Cinemateque refused to screen it with that requirement. Following the Orthodox tradition of Kol Isha laws, which do not allow women to sing or dance in front of men, this film is a musical set in Victorian England in an orphanage where the young women are not allowed to practice Judaism. The film has an exclusively female Orthodox cast. It has already been screened for women-only audiences in New York, New Jersey and Los Angeles.

* * * * *

President Heinz Fischer of Austria had a reception at the Menachem Begin Heritage Center's Terasa restaurant. It was the end of his long day of meeting with President Shimon Peres, meeting with Prime Minister Ehud Olmert and visiting Yad Vashem.

Upcoming Events at the Begin Center

Next week the Begin Center will host two important events, the opening of the Krakow Exhibition "A World Before Catastrophe" on December 21 and the Begin Prize Ceremony on December 23. The following week, on December 30, the Academic Committee of the Menachem Begin Heritage Center will award scholarships to academic works related to Begin and/or his heritage including one in the name of the late Izzy Asper.

We wish all our Readers
a Happy and Joyous Chanukah Holiday!!!

Visit our other blog: http://begincenterdiary.blogspot.com/
The Menachem Begin Heritage Center
6 Nahon Street Jerusalem 94110 ISRAEL
972 (2) 565-2020; Fax: 972 (2) 565-2010

offices@begincenter.org.il http://www.begincenter.org.il/

Menachem Begin Heritage Center Bulletin 7, Vol. 5

MENACHEM BEGIN

HERITAGE CENTER, JERUSALEM
TOTAL NUMBER OF VISITORS SINCE OCTOBER 2004: 454,043

DECEMBER 1948: BEGIN'S FIRST VISIT TO THE US

Today we launch a three-part series about Menachem Begin's first visit to the US 60 years ago in December 1948 where he was greeted with a ticker-tape parade in the streets of New York accompanied by the mayor. We take this opportunity to thank Mrs. Estelle Friedman, whose husband Elitzur Friedman joined Menachem Begin on this visit to the US, for her recent contribution of newspapers from that time to the Begin Center archives. Over the next two issues of the Bulletin, we will be publishing segments from The Jewish Ledger and The Answer that describe Menachem Begin's visit and quote from his speeches.For today, we present to you a picture of Menachem Begin with Yohanna Jabotinsky, widow of the Zionist leader and mentor of the Revisionist Movement, Ze'ev Jabotinsky, and members of the Betar Youth Movement at a festive dinner conducted in his honor.

Menachem Begin with Mrs. Yohanna Jabotinsky

MENACHEM BEGIN'S CONNECTION TO CHABAD

This past week we watched in horror and dismay at the events in Mumbai at the Chabad House. May the families of the victims find comfort in their sorrow. Menachem Begin spoke to and met with Rabbi Menachem Mendel Schneerson on several occasions and we direct our readers to the Chabad website where Menachem Begin says a few words about Rabbi Scheerson. The link is HERE. (As this is an external link to the Chabad site, we cannot be responsible if it doesn't work properly.)

MONITORING MENTIONS OF BEGIN ON THE INTERNET

One of the tasks that is undertaken by the Begin Center is to monitor the mentions of Menachem Begin on the internet. This allows us to see in what context he is mentioned and how often he is still mentioned even today. Here are a few examples this week:

• Israeli readers were reminded about Menachem Begin's modesty this week in an article in Ha'Aretz opinion piece lamenting the fact that our politicians today lack this admirable trait.

• The author of a new biography of the late Harold "Izzy" Asper (Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada), Mr. Peter C. Newman, reflected on Mr. Asper's admiration of Menachem Begin and the Irgun when he was interviewed about the book.

• The Los Angeles Times connected the King David Hotel with the attacks in Mumbai placing it first on its list of hotels that had been bombed. A few people who left comments mentioned that the LA Times notably neglected to include the bombings by Arabs against hotels in Netanya and Taba, actions that were directed solely against civilians. Yisrael Medad of the Begin Center wrote to the newspaper that "only the southern wing was targeted which was wholly British, having been taken over from the owners in stages, beginning already in 1938. The Army Headquarters were located there as were the offices of the Mandate Government Secretariat."

ISRAEL COMMUNICATION LAW

Amendment 40 of the Israel Communication Law was put into effect on December 1, 2008. It is an effort to eliminate, or at least reduce, spam advertisement messages.The Begin Center is not in the business of sending advertisements and we hope that everyone on this list enjoys receiving news about the Begin Center, our events and invitations for upcoming programs. This bulletin list is an opt-in list which means that our readers have requested to be on it. If this is not the case, please refer to the bottom of this email and unsubscribe. If you have any trouble unsubscribing, you may simply reply to this email and request to be taken off the list.

DECEMBER EVENTS

There will be three major events at the Begin Center in December.On December 21, the Begin Center, in cooperation with the International Cultural Center of Krakow, the Krakow Landsmanchaft and several other organizations, will open "A World Before Catastrophe", a view of the Jewish community in Krakow between the two World Wars.On December 23, the Begin Prize will be awarded to Dr. Reuven Or of Hadassah Hospital and certificates of honor will go to Prof. Moshe Arens and Harold "Smoky" Simon. Participants in the PERACH program will also be honored at this ceremony. On December 30, the Begin Center will award academic scholarships for university level research work done in fields about Menachem Begin and/or other related topics.

VISITOR COMMENTS

• "We will never forget this visit to this amazing museum, a tribute to a giant of a man." – South Africa and Los Angeles
• "I always believed, and after visiting the museum I am convinced, that Menachem Begin loved the people of his country, did everything for their benefit and was unique in his honesty and integrity. May his memory be blessed." - Israel

Visit our other blog: http://begincenterdiary.blogspot.com/
The Menachem Begin Heritage Center

6 Nahon Street Jerusalem 94110 ISRAEL

972 (2) 565-2020; Fax: 972 (2) 565-2010 offices@begincenter.org.il

Menachem Begin Heritage Center Bulletin 8, Vol. 5

Menachem Begin
Heritage Center, Jerusalem
Volume 5, Issue 8
Total Number of Visitors Since October 2004: 455,254

December 1948:
Menachem Begin's First US Visit (part 2)

This week we present Part 2 of the three-part series on Menachem Begin's first visit to the United States based on a recent donation of archival materials given to the Begin Center Archives by Mrs. Estelle Friedman.
In response to our previous article, we received emails from David Krakow and Estelle Friedman informing us of the name of the young man in the picture last week with Menachem Begin and Mrs. Jabotinsky. It was Seymour (Simcha) Rosenberg at the age of 24 who replaced Moshe Arens as Natsiv of American Betar in September 1948. The picture was taken at the Diplomat Hotel in New York. We also heard from Mr. Rosenberg's daughter, Meira, who confirmed the information. We thank them for taking the time to write and contributing details to the material in our archives.
We invite our readers to convey to us any additional information about this visit and, of course, our Archives awaits any historical records related to Menachem Begin (letters, documents, pictures and newspaper clippings) you possess which can be scanned and returned, if need be.

* * * * *

In The Jewish Ledger dated December 8, 1948, Simon Bloom describes Menachem Begin, his speeches and his first visit to the US. He says:

I had no idea of the type of person I was expecting to see, but considering the exploits of the Irgun, and the fact that it was they who made it so uneasy for the British that they got out of Palestine, I wasn't prepared to see a 'melamed'.
That was my first impression of Begin. That's what he looked like and that's what he talked like. But don't get the wrong idea, because I use the word 'melamed'. I don't mean a man with a long beard. … It's the appearance of Begin that gives the feeling, hard to shake off, that the man is a dreamer, an idealist. And he must have as the core of his inner-drive the same burning convictions which shaped the life of another dreamer of another faith, Ignatius Loyola. …
During that span, from my first to my last attempts to pigeon-hole him, I find myself still of the conviction that here is a dreamer who will continue to make events and shape destiny. …
He gave his talk to his audience extemporaneously. He seemed to be reading a speech part of the time, but there was no reading. It was his manner of talking. At times he would lift his head and gaze aloft at the audience. On one such occasion he said softly, "Now you have seen what a 'terrorist' looks like," referring to himself. "I will tell you about another terrorist, but he is not here, only his picture and spirit are here." He turned reverently to the picture of Dov Bel Gruner which flanked the dais on one side with the pictures of Jabotinsky on the other. …
[In referring to the men who joined him on the tour of the US, Begin said,] "These heroic soldiers will be good citizens in the land of Israel tomorrow." … "Our war was a war for survival. What would have happened to us if we did not wage that war is no longer a secret. It is public knowledge now that the Jewish Agency had accepted the Morrison Plan on condition that it be given the right to distribute the monthly quota of four thousand immigration certificates. And this we know too, that the British would have been very happy to exterminate us completely in Palestine. Were it not for our war of liberation, we would have been left in a ghetto, without arms and helpless and on D-Day we would have met in the heart of Asia, the same fate which our brethren met in the heart of Europe. …
[In the words of another member of the delegation in regard to the time when the Haganah was turning in wanted Irgun members,] There was resentment in the Irgun about the wanted [men] to fight back against the Haganah. This would mean civil war. Begin said the decision was up to the eight [commanders]. They could fight back against the Haganah if they wanted. If they did that they might destroy the nation. Or if they didn't make that choice, then the Irgun might itself be destroyed. It was a dramatic scene as Benjamin described it. Here in their hands eight men held perhaps the destiny of a nation. Could they fight back against the Haganah or should they risk their own destruction and perhaps with that destruction the one factor that would drive the British out of Israel.
The thing that made their minds up for them were the other words that Begin said. Solemnly he told them if you decide to fight against the Haganah, you will fight without me. I will walk out now and you are free to choose from among yourselves a new commander. The choice is yours – civil war and disunity among all our people without me at your side, or my continuation as commander and the avoidance of bloodshed among our own people. We have but one enemy and that enemy is Britain.
Menachem Begin was asked at the Newark press conference a question "Of what significance is the proposed acceptance of the state of Israel in the UN to the Freedom party [the Herut Party] and to the future of the state of Israel?" He answered, "I don't think it will be accepted and if it will be it will not be to the advantage of Israel because it can only be on a compromise basis and it will necessitate the surrender of additional territory by the Israeli government. …
The UN has shelved the application for membership, but due to the difference in time, the shelving was not known then.

Hamshooshalayim

December is a very special time in Jerusalem. For the third year in a row, the Menachem Begin Heritage Center has participated in the initiative—Hamshooshalayim--of the Jerusalem Municipality to encourage tourism to Jerusalem in December. "Hamshoosh" refers to the Israeli slang term of a long weekend—Thursday, Friday, Saturday (i.e., Hamishi, Shishi, Shabbat). For three weekends in December, entrance to many museums, tourist sites and other entertainment options are free of charge or at a discount. On Fridays, many special walking tours of the city are provided, some of which are free of charge and some at a discount. Both English and Hebrew tours are available.
The Begin Center was fully booked last Thursday night from 9:00pm to 12:30am and is fully booked for the next two weeks. So many people requested reservations that due to limited space in the museum, some were unfortunately unable to get a reservation.
Not only tourists from abroad attend Hamshooshalayim events. Many people have come from all over Israel to participate. And many of those people have come especially to the Begin Center.

Visitor Comments

· "Menachem Begin was a very special Prime Minister. His life was lived with lofty goals and he accomplished so much for us. Thank you."
· "A wonderful experience to share Menachem Begin's life in a multi-media presentation. Very much appreciated."

Visit our other blog: http://begincenterdiary.blogspot.com/
The Menachem Begin Heritage Center
6 Nahon Street Jerusalem 94110 ISRAEL
972 (2) 565-2020; Fax: 972 (2) 565-2010 offices@begincenter.org.il http://www.begincenter.org.il/

Menachem Begin Heritage Center Bulletin 6, Vol. 5

Menachem Begin
Heritage Center, Jerusalem
Volume 5, Issue 6
November 27, 2008
Total Number of Visitors Since October 2004: 451,328

Launch of the IGF Website

One of the Begin Center's new successful programs, the Israel Government Fellows program, has launched its website this week. As mentioned in this bulletin previously, the Israel Government Fellows program, under the auspices of the Begin Center and MASA (a program of the government of Israel and the Jewish Agency), gathers together young Jewish leaders from countries around the world to live in Jerusalem, work in government offices, learn about Israel and reconfirm their commitment and connection to Israel.
Menachem Begin spoke often about the need for a responsible, dynamic government. In his May 15, 1948 speech, broadcast over the Irgun clandestine radio, he said:
"And within our Homeland, justice shall be the supreme ruler, the ruler over all rulers. There must be no tyranny. The Ministers and officials must be the servants of the nation and not their masters. There must be no exploitation…'Righteousness, righteousness shall you pursue' will be the guiding principle in our relations amongst ourselves. We will protect our state well, our Israel. It is for these goals and principles and in the framework of democracy that the Herut Movement will struggle…”
Thus, in the spirit of these elements of his heritage, the Begin Center launched the Israel Government Fellows initiative which is now in its third session. We invite you to visit and explore the new website, www.israelgovernmentfellows.org.il, view the short film and let us know what you think.

Ministry of Education Annual Conference

Once again, the Begin Center hosted to the annual conference of the Ministry of Education's Youth and Society Unit of the Jerusalem District this past week on Monday, Nov. 24. Some 250 educators, principals, teachers, youth workers and bureaucrats convened, making full use of the Center's convention facilities including six workshops. Special guests included mayor-elect Nir Barakat and panelists Prof. Oz Almog and Gen. (ret.) and former IDF Chief-of-Staff Moshe "Bogie" Ya'alon who addressed the conference's theme of Identity and Identification. The Jerusalem District, it should be noted, extends from the Shiloh area in the North to Hebron in the South and from Jericho in the East to Mevasseret Zion in the West.

Inaugural Course Starts at the Begin Center

A new initiative has been launched at the Begin Center consisting of lecture series on a variety of subjects. The first course met for its first meeting this week. Dr. Shelly Goldberg, a professor at Bar Ilan University, is presenting the course "Meeting on the Edge of Kabbalah" which will have five sessions. Fifty people registered and paid for the course and will continue through the rest of the series.
Dr. Goldberg is also one of the lecturers for the Parashat HaShavua lecture series. This year she will be the primary lecturer for the third book of the Torah, Leviticus.

Evening of Hebrew Songs at the Begin Center

The first of seven evenings of the History of Hebrew Songwriting was held at the Begin Center this week. 170 people attended the first performance featuring the work of Abraham Shlonsky and Alexander Penn. Nahum Heyman, a well-known Israeli composer, was the master of ceremonies at the event which utilized rare film clips of Jerusalem and the poets themselves as well as many pictures. The audience enjoyed joining in the singing—which was encouraged—and was treated to additional performances by Ofer Kalaf.
The next such evening will be on January 6, 2009 and will feature the work of Nathan Alterman. Tickets are 40NIS and reservations can be made at (02) 565-2020, ext. 0.

Seen and Heard at the Begin Center

Amnon Ben Ami, Deputy Director of the Prime Minister's Office, stopped by the Begin Center to meet with Herzl Makov, the Chairman of the Begin Center. Ben Ami and his staff also visited the museum.

Visit our other blog: http://begincenterdiary.blogspot.com/
The Menachem Begin Heritage Center
6 Nahon Street Jerusalem 94110 ISRAEL
972 (2) 565-2020; Fax: 972 (2) 565-2010
offices@begincenter.org.il www.begincenter.org.il

Menachem Begin Heritage Center Bulletin 5, Vol. 5

Menachem Begin
Heritage Center, Jerusalem
Volume 5, Issue 5
November 20, 2008
Total Number of Visitors Since October 2004: 449,529

Begin Prize 2008

As has been done for the past eight years, the Menachem Begin Heritage Center will present the Menachem Begin Prize during Chanukah. The Prize Ceremony will be conducted on the evening of the lighting of the third candle of Chanukah on December 23, 2008. This year's Prize will be awarded to Prof. Reuven Or, Director of the Department of Bone Marrow Transplant at Hadassah Hospital, who initiated a national program in Israel for a bone marrow bank. Awards of Honor this year will go to Prof. Moshe Arens for his work towards the security of Israel and his more recent historical work illuminating the actions of the Betar in the Underground during the Warsaw Ghetto Uprising and to Harold "Smoky" Simon for his contribution to the Israel Air Force during the War of Independence and more recently for his untiring work as Honorary Treasurer of the Menachem Begin Heritage Center and as Chairman of World Machal.

"A World Before Catastrophe"

On December 21st, a new exhibition will open at the Begin Center. In cooperation with the International Cultural Center of Krakow, Poland, the Begin Center will host the exhibit "A World Before Catastrophe" which depicts Jewish life in Krakow, Poland, before World War II. The exhibition will be on view at the Begin Center until April 2009.

Traffic Changes

As a follow-up to last week's story about the traffic changes around the Begin Center, here are a few pictures illustrating the new signage and the adjustments made to the intersection.

31 Years Ago

On 19 November 1977, President of Egypt Anwar Sadat arrived in Jerusalem at the invitation of Prime Minister Menachem Begin. After Sadat spoke at the Knesset, Begin responded:
"We believe with all our hearts that the day indeed will come when we can sign a freely negotiated agreement with mutual respect. Then we shall know that the era of the war is over; that we have extended our hands to one another, we have shaken each other's hands and the future can be glorious for all the nations in this area."

Seen and Heard at the Begin Center

Commissioner of Police in Jerusalem Aharon Franco toured the Begin Museum with his senior staff.

* * * * *

Forty young leaders of the General Assembly came to visit the Begin Museum and afterwards held their special meetings here.

* * * * *

A seminar was held for the Hebrew University-sponsored Outstanding Ethiopian Young Leadership with 30 participants led by Dr. Shalva Weil, President of the Society for the Study of Ethiopian Jewry Senior Researcher-Research Institute for Innovation in Education. They were addressed by Yisrael Medad, Information Resources Director, on Begin’s role in the liberation of Ethiopian Jewry.

* * * * *

The Yerucham-Miami Federation Partnership meeting (as part of the General Assembly) made an international conference call from the Nathan Silver Executive Board Room at the Begin Center and subsequently making full use of the Center's facilities for their deliberations and planning for the coming year.

Visit our blog: http://begincenterdiary.blogspot.com/
The Menachem Begin Heritage Center
6 Nahon Street Jerusalem 94110 ISRAEL
972 (2) 565-2020; Fax: 972 (2) 565-2010 offices@begincenter.org.il http://www.begincenter.org.il/

Menachem Begin Heritage Center Bulletin 4, Vol. 5

Menachem Begin
Heritage Center, Jerusalem
Volume 5, Issue 4
November 13, 2008
Total Number of Visitors Since October 2004: 448,034

The History of Hebrew Songwriting

Nahum Heyman, an Israeli composer, will do a series of performances at the Menachem Begin Heritage Center called "Chapters in the History of Hebrew Songwriting". Each month Eyman will focus on different poets and songwriters. The evenings will be stages as a multi-media performance including sing-a-longs with the audience, short video clips, storytelling and other audio-visual elements. The schedule is as follows:
November 25, 2008
Abraham Shlonsky, Alexander Penn
December 30, 2008
Natan Alterman
January 1, 2009
Mordechai Zeira, Ya'acov Orland
February 24, 2009
Leah Goldberg, Rahel
March 24, 2009
David Zahavi, Matityahu Shalem
May 19, 2009
Chaim Nahman Bialik, Shaul Tchernichovsky
June 9, 2009
BILU Pioneers, 4th Aliyah
Tickets to each show are 40NIS and reservations can be made at (02) 565-2020, ext. 0.

On the Lighter Side…

In a review of her new cookbook on the subject of Hamin, the traditional winter dish, also known as cholent in Yiddish, Sherry Ansky has a story, memory or literary quote to go with the recipes. Ansky spoke of her life and mentioned her father's correspondence with Menachem Begin about the Bible. Her father, Prof. Haim Gvaryahu, was a Bible scholar and together with Mr. Begin renewed the custom of conducting study sessions of the Bible at Prime Minister Begin's home on Saturday evenings after the Shabbat.
As our readers are probably aware, the idea for the Parashat HaShavua lecture series was born out of these study sessions. The Begin Center archives was also the recipient of a collection of audio tapes recording the radio broadcasts of some of the study sessions.

Traffic Changes Around the Begin Center

In preparation for the light rail system, and because of it, the streets near and adjacent to the Begin Center have undergone major changes and sidewalks have been repaved.
At the intersection of David Remez Street (between the Center and the Old Railway Station & the Khan Theater), Nahon Street and King David Street, officially known as the Mendes-France Circle, traffic lights have been repositioned. The section of Emek Refa'im Street just south of the Center, opposite the parking lot of the Liberty Bell Garden, has had its lanes reoriented and now there is a special bus lane in the direction of the King David Hotel.
Unfortunately, for the moment, there are significant traffic jams in the morning as now all the traffic from Emek Refa'im and Derech Bet Lehem flows into one traffic lane towards the center of town.

Activities in the Education Department

The Menachem Begin Heritage Center's Education department continues its activities. Already a Junior Knesset workshop session was conducted with pupils from Ort Geulah. In addition, soldiers and Border Policemen continue to arrive at the Center to participate in either a special leadership workshop or the new synergy workshop. In the coming week, we expect 50 soldiers who serve in the framework of the International Relations Unit of the IDF on the Israel-Egypt border to undergo leadership and management skills training at the Center.

Visitors

William Hess of New Orleans, Louisiana, came to the Begin Center with his wife Susan this week. They were in Israel to participate in the Jewish Agency meetings and the WZO meetings.

Visit our blog: http://begincenterdiary.blogspot.com/
The Menachem Begin Heritage Center
6 Nahon Street Jerusalem 94110 ISRAEL
972 (2) 565-2020; Fax: 972 (2) 565-2010 offices@begincenter.org.il www.begincenter.org.il

Menachem Begin Heritage Center Bulletin 3, Vol. 5

Menachem Begin
Heritage Center, Jerusalem
Volume 5, Issue 3
November 2008
Total Number of Visitors Since October 2004: 447,126

Marking 30 Days

Upon the occasion of the ‘Shloshim’ to mark thirty days since the passing of the Founder and President of the Menachem Begin Heritage Foundation Harry (Zvi) Hurwitz z"l, a memorial ceremony took place on Sunday, November 2, 2008 at the Menachem Begin Heritage Center, Jerusalem. The unveiling of the stone marker was done at an earlier ceremony on that day at the cemetery.
At the cemetery, many of Harry Hurwitz's close friends and family gathered to unveil the stone marker which was engraved with the words ברהיטות ובהדר נאבק למען עמו, באהבה ובמסירות דאג למשפחתו in Hebrew (“With fluent clarity and Hadar he struggled on behalf of his People, With love and dedication he cared for his Family”). Freda Hurwitz stood surrounded by her family, while the ceremony was conducted by Josef Wittelson. Harry's son, Dr. Hillel Hurwitz, recited Kaddish following the appropriate psalms related to Harry's Hebrew name, Zvi read by Hillel; Harry's grandson, Ilan Hurwitz; and Harry's grandson-in-law, Jay Wohlgelernter. The El Maleh Rachamim was sung. Following tradition, psalms were read relating to the letters of Neshama. In attendance at this ceremony were Menachem Begin's son, Dr. Beny Begin; former Speaker of the Knesset, MK Reuben Rivlin, who read one of the psalms. The unveiling ceremony ended with the singing of the Betar anthem.
The ceremony at the Menachem Begin Heritage Center was crowded with friends and admirers of Harry Hurwitz. The MC and first speaker was Herzl Makov, Chairman of the Begin Center, followed by Moshe Fuksman-Sha'al, Deputy Director of the Begin Center. Other speakers were Yisrael Medad, Educational and Information Resources Coordinator at the Begin Center who read Mishnayot; Sharon Wohlgelernter, Harry Hurwitz's granddaughter; Rafi Harlev, representing the extended family; Hertzel Katz, Raphael Melmed and Yechiel Kadishai, three long-time friends of Harry Hurwitz. Each person who spoke knew Harry in a different way and together wove the portrait of a devoted family man, a leader of his community, a champion of the legacy of Menachem Begin, a true Betari; a man whose humor, speaking ability and drive combined to inspire others to follow in his footsteps. The ceremony ended with a short PowerPoint presentation of pictures from Harry's life and a video of the last interview he did for English-language Israel TV a fortnight prior to his passing. Also in attendance at the ceremony were Dr. Beny Begin, Uzi Landau and Dan Meridor.

Increase of Visitors over the Holiday Period

The holiday period of 2008 showed an increase of 1,000 visitors in comparison with the same period last year. This is due to the broad-reaching radio commercial campaign launched by the Begin Center. The commercials were aired on four radio channels in Israel and utilized the voice of Chairman of the Center, Herzl Makov, as well as an excerpt from Menachem Begin's famous speech that he gave in 1948 on the birth of the State of Israel. The result of the campaign was that the museum was filled to capacity every day and visitors were unfortunately turned away.

Workshop for Policemen at the Begin Center

Under the direction of the Educational Activities branch of the Begin Center, one hundred police officers, who are team leaders and sergeants, came to the Begin Center on Tuesday to participate in a workshop on synergy and leadership. The officers first went through the museum and then gathered together in the workshop forum.
Based on Menachem Begin's emphasis on democracy and leadership, the purpose of the workshop is to teach democratic principles and synergistic teamwork so that these officers, in leadership positions, will learn how to work together for the best possible result.
The Educational Activities team is planning four more of the synergy and leadership workshops for soldiers this month.

Visit our blog: http://begincenterdiary.blogspot.com/
The Menachem Begin Heritage Center
6 Nahon Street Jerusalem 94110 ISRAEL
972 (2) 565-2020; Fax: 972 (2) 565-2010 offices@begincenter.org.il www.begincenter.org.il

Menachem Begin Heritage Center Bulletin 2, Vol. 5

Menachem Begin
Heritage Center, Jerusalem
Volume 5, Issue 2
October 2008
Total Number of Visitors Since October 2004: 445,720

From the Pages of History:
October 28, 1956

On the eve of the Sinai campaign launched on Oct. 29, 1956 David Ben-Gurion asked Menachem Begin to visit him at his home in Tel Aviv. Given the strained and even hostile relations between the two, the event was unique. Begin arrived at Ben-Gurion’s home where he found the Prime Minister sick in bed with a high fever. Begin was surprised when Ben-Gurion informed him that Israel was to attack Egypt the next day in cooperation with England and France. Ben-Gurion explained that he desired maximum Knesset support and although his coalition policy was “without Herut and without Maki (the Communist Party)”, Ben-Gurion told Begin that in matters of state security, he trusted him implicitly.
As the late Eric Silver recorded in his Begin biography, p. 122, Begin had been campaigning for a ‘preventive war’ for almost a year and responded to Ben-Gurion: “I applaud your courageous decision. You can depend on our support.”
This could have been the start of a rapprochement but Ben-Gurion’s capitulation to American pressure in January and the decision to withdraw before assuring Israel’s defense needs, renewed the parliamentary battling in the Knesset between the two.

Marking 30 Days

Upon the occasion of the ‘Shloshim’ to mark the passing of the Founder and President of the Menachem Begin Heritage Foundation Harry (Zvi) Hurwitz z"l, a memorial ceremony will take place on Sunday, November 2, 2008 at the Menachem Begin Heritage Center, Jerusalem. The unveiling of the stone marker will be done at an earlier ceremony on that day at the cemetery. Please call 02-565-2020 for a place at either ceremony.

Prof. Levin's Book Launched

The Seminar Room was filled to overflowing on Sunday evening, October 26th, with persons who came to honor Professor Menachem Levin who has recently published a book of his memoirs. The speakers included Herzl Makov, Center Chairman, Prof. Yaakov Shavit, Yossi Achimeir, Prof. Hillel Weiss, Prof. Moshe Arens. Levin is one of the veteran Revisionists, who had worked with Ze'ev Jabotinsky and Menachem Begin, had served in various roles, both in the Underground and legal political activity as well as pursuing an outstanding academic career both in Israel and abroad as a guest lecturer and researcher. Prof. Levin even until this day continues to be involved in the issues of the rights to the Land of Israel, the security of the country and its economic and intellectual well-being.
Prof. Levin, in thanking the assembled members of the audience, emphasized how pleased he was that he merited that his book launch was held at the Begin Center, where the man he identified with, respected and served is memorialized. Prof. Levin, who is soon to be 91 and is significantly visually impaired, nevertheless continues his academic profession and the day after the event, flew off to lecture at New York University for the coming two months.

Mazal Tov!

To Dr. Micha Goodman, the popular lecturer of the Parshat HaShavua, and his wife Tzipi, the proud parents of twin girls. We wish a hearty Mazal Tov to the whole family, which includes the happy grandfather Mr. Arthur Fried.

Note to our readers: Now that we are past the holiday season, we hope to publish the News Bulletin regularly on Thursdays.

Visit our blog: http://begincenterdiary.blogspot.com/
The Menachem Begin Heritage Center
6 Nahon Street Jerusalem 94110 ISRAEL
972 (2) 565-2020; Fax: 972 (2) 565-2010 offices@begincenter.org.il http://www.begincenter.org.il/

Menachem Begin Heritage Center Bulletin 1, Vol. 5

Menachem Begin
Heritage Center, Jerusalem
Volume 5, Issue 1
October 2008
Total Number of Visitors Since October 2004: 442,273

Begin Fellows Honored in Special Ceremony

A ceremony and luncheon was held to honor three of our very special donors—Begin Fellows—who have committed to a continuous yearly contribution to support the Menachem Begin Heritage Foundation. The additional funds help make up the shortfall created by budget cuts in the government so that the Begin Center activities will continue irrespective of financial issues within the government. The Begin Center's mission is to commemorate the life, words and deeds of Menachem Begin and to pass on his heritage to future generations which can only be done with a consistent and thriving budget. These donors are helping to ensure that the activities, publications, research and preservation will continue from generation to generation.
The Begin Fellows honored at this ceremony are: Mark and Anna Ruth Hasten of Indiana, Eugen and Jean Gluck of New York and the Silver Family Foundation of Ontario, represented by Aaron Silver. They join previous honorees Hart and Simona Hasten of Indiana, Rose Lax of Ontario and Matti Drobles of Israel. Herzl Makov, Chairman of the Begin Center, welcomed everyone to the meeting, said a few words to honor Harry Hurwitz saying that his loss is deeply felt at the Center and noting that Harry's latest initiative was this ceremony to honor these donors, and he gave an update on activities at the Center then turned the floor over to "Smoky" Simon, Honorary Treasurer of the Menachem Begin Heritage Foundation, to give a brief report on the status of the Foundation. Yechiel Kadishai said a few words of thanks on behalf of the Finance Committee. Each Begin Fellow received a certificate, a replica of Menachem Begin's Nobel Prize Medal and a lapel pin. Other honored guests were Dr. Beny Begin, MK Reuven Rivlin, Hart Hasten, President of the US Friends of the Menachem Begin Heritage Foundation and Mrs. Freda Hurwitz.
After the ceremony, the group went to the restaurant downstairs for luncheon.

Begin Center Busy During Sukkot

The cultural events organized by the Menachem Begin Heritage Center over the Sukkot holiday were especially successful with quite impressive numbers of participants.
* The day-long symposium under the auspices of the Jerusalem Municipality 'Sha'arayich' initiative on the topic of "In God We Trust": US & Israel Models of Religion and State drew between 40 and 100 persons at each of the four sessions. Each session was addressed by outstanding academic lecturers from Israel's leading universities and other educational institutions.
* As popular as ever, learning sessions at the Begin Center are drawing overflow crowds. The unique Hoshana Rabba all-night learning program of four different lectures from Dr. Iddo Chevroni, Dr. Shelly Goldberg, Dr. Micha Goodman and Yirmi Stavitzky was so well attended that in addition to the Reuben Hecht Auditorium, a seminar room was required for closed-circuit broadcast of the speakers. This event is in anticipation of the Rohr Family Parshat HaShavua weekly lecture series which will begin with B'reisheet on Thursday October 23, at 7pm. Dr. Iddo Chevroni, a member of the academic staff of the Mandel Leadership Institute, the Shalem Institute's Biblical Literature studies and of Herzog College, will be the lecturer for the book of B'reisheet. We expect, as in previous years, that the Parshat HaShavua will be hugely popular bringing an audience to the Begin Center of young, old, religious, secular, men and women who will all learn the portion of the week together for an hour. Menachem Begin liked to learn the portion of the week and was quite committed to the study of the Torah. At a certain point in his years as Prime Minister, the study group lectures and discussions were broadcast live on the radio and recorded. The Begin Center's archives hold this very interesting and valuable collection of recordings.
* In addition to the various special events, the Begin Museum was open for extended hours from 9AM to 7PM and up to 500 people a day went through the exhibit during the Chol HaMoed intermediate days of Sukkot.

Upcoming Events

Sunday, October 26—Book Launch: The book launch of the memoirs of Prof. Menachem Levin, a Jabotinsky Movement veteran, will be held beginning at 6:30 PM at the Begin Center. The speakers will include Herzl Makov, Center Chairman, Prof. Yaakov Shavit, Yossi Achimeir, Prof. Hillel Weiss, Prof. Moshe Arens. Prof. Levin will respond. The event will be conducted in Hebrew.

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The Menachem Begin Heritage Center
6 Nahon Street Jerusalem 94110 ISRAEL
972 (2) 565-2020; Fax: 972 (2) 565-2010 offices@begincenter.org.il http://www.begincenter.org.il/