When Is Chanukah

White House to Boehner: Your debt plan makes you the Grinch

WASHINGTON — The White House has long accused Republicans in the House of Representatives of flirting with disaster by risking a credit default — but ruining Christmas?

That's the administration's latest spin: that House Speaker John Boehner's bid to raise the debt ceiling only briefly would force another "debt ceiling three-ring circus" just in time for the holiday season.

That Grinch! Another round of warring politicians would not only dampen enthusiasm for decking the halls, but it could depress the economy, the White House warned Thursday.

Repeatedly.

"Happy Holidays America," White House spokesman Dan Pfeiffer tweeted Thursday, presumably embracing not only Christmas but Chanukah, Kwanza and perhaps New Years, too. "(The) Boehner plan would have the debt ceiling all over again during the holiday season, which is critical for the economy."

The White House wants a hike in borrowing authority large enough to take the U.S. into 2013, past the November 2012 election, though it says it's not about politics, it's about giving the economy an assured break from the debt-ceiling madness for that period.

White House senior adviser David Plouffe piled on the Christmas threat during a conference call with reporters, saying that without a long-term deal, the contentious debate could be revived "probably right around the holiday season, which is one of the most important times for our economy. That would be irresponsible and reckless."

Boehner's office accused the White House of singing the wrong carol. It maintains that under the GOP plan, the debt limit would increase by $900 billion initially — enough to cover the federal government's needs into January or February. (Next White House message: GOP hates Cupid?)

In a blog post archly titled, "Yes, David There will be a Christmas," Boehner spokesman Brendan Buck charged that the White House "has resorted to suggesting (the House plan) would force Americans to keep the tinsel and snow globes boxed up this holiday season."

But he said the spending would be extended "well into next year. White House advisers can rest easy, and no one has to put their holiday plans on hold," Buck wrote.

White House Press Secretary Jay Carney wouldn't give it up. He pressed the case, warning that a short-term fix could result in a replay of the past few weeks "at a time when people don't want to worry about whether or not their interest rates are going to go up ... especially as they're buying gifts for the holidays.

Chanukah in Israel | Shalom Israel Tours

Day 1 Friday December 16th ARRIVE IN ISRAEL! Welcome at Ben Gurion Airport

After exiting customs a SHALOM ISRAEL TOURS representative will be waiting to welcome and transfer you to your waiting chauffeur and on to your hotel in Tel Aviv.

Stretched along the beautiful beach strip of the Mediterranean, Tel Aviv is Israel’s largest city and biggest commercial center. It is a busy metropolis, which inspires its visitors with a unique energetic atmosphere of excitement and fun.

Every Tuesday and Friday, this average street comes alive with the work of over 200 artists. Displaying Israeli made crafts, including jewelry and other interesting one-of-a-kind gifts, this fair is a great place to buy gifts, pamper yourself, and people-watch.

Filled with unique vendors and funky coffee shops along with simple kiosks and local Falafel and Shawarma stalls- it is enough to bring out a little “Bohemian” in anyone who walks down these streets.

If you want a great place to experience local culture and get some great deals on household items and fresh foods, visit the largest bazaar market in Tel Aviv. Exotic aromas, beautiful colors, and some of the freshest produce around, The Carmel Market is a must-see.

The Jaffa Promenade goes from Jaffa all the way to the Old Port in Tel Aviv. The promenade gives tourists an amazing view of the skyline of Tel Aviv as well as a new perspective of the beauty of the city, set to the backdrop of the Mediterranean Sea.

This port holds a world of leisure and entertainment along the beautiful shoreline, including live performances, art exhibitions, shopping, weekend markets, and an amazing culinary experience for your palette, brought to you by some of the best restaurants and chefs in Tel Aviv.

After breakfast we’ll say farewell to Tel Aviv and head north along Israel’s coast.  We will travel to the Caesarea National Park contains an impressive Roman Amphitheatre, the Hippodrome- a 20,000 seat horse racing arena, and the Roman Aqueducts.

Instructor

Halachos of Chanukah

Chanukah, its history, observance, and significance ; a presentation based upon talmudic and traditional sources

The daily halachah discussion

Chanukah Guilt