-------- Original Message --------

Subject: Attn.: Victor Schaffner
Date: Fri, 31 Dec 2004 09:47:15 -0600
From: Hedy Epstein <hedy@hedyepstein.com>
Reply-To: hedy@hedyepstein.com
To: letters@annarbornews.com

Dear Mr. Schaffner,
Though I do not know the reason why you have not returned my phone call
of 12/30/04, I can only make an assumption as to the reason. It is:
Though you are in the business of communications, you communicate only
with those who mirror your opinions. My "Letter to the Editor" (see
below), which I sent to your paper on 12/17/04, was not published. Why?
Could it be for the reason referred to above?

Best wishes for the New Year, a year of open communications & open mind.

Sincerely,
Hedy Epstein


-------- Original Message --------

Subject: Religious leaders denounce protest
Date: Fri, 17 Dec 2004 22:10:20 -0600
From: Hedy Epstein <hedy@hedyepstein.com>
Reply-To: hedy@hedyepstein.com
To: letters@annarbornews.com

It is with great consternation that I read the December 15, 2004 article
by Catherine O'Donnell, in which she states that area ministers are
speaking out against the vigils of Jewish Witnesses for Peace hold
outside Beth Israel Congregation.

I particpated in this vigil on Saturday, October 2, 2004. Prior to
that, I received an e-mail from Rabbi Dobrusin, asking me not to
participate. In my response to the Rabbi, I expressed the hope that I
could speak with him while I am in Ann Arbor that weekend, as well as
perhaps, at another time, with members of his congregation. I called
Rabbi Dobrusin while in Ann Arbor, and left a message on his answering
machine. To date I have not heard from him.

It takes at least two people to dialogue I can only assume that
dialogue with me is not what Rabbi Dobrusin is interested in, and by
extension, with Jewish Witnesses for Peace.

I have visited the West Bank twice during the past year. While there, I
cried bitter tears when I saw the myriad ways the occupation has
dehumanized both Israelis and Palestinians. I continue to cry about the
deafening silence of all too many American Jews, fearful of critizicing
Israel. Looking at Jewish history, we find a long list of remarkable
outspoken Jews, who have stood up for what is right and just. Jewish
Witnesses for Peace, have joined their ranks, and I am proud to have
stood with them.

Hedy Epstein
St. Louis, MO 63112
hedy@hedyepstein.com