[RBS] Benjamin-library - An open letter from the Chairman of the Amuta of The Benjamin Children's Library

[The Palmers]

IS THIS A POLITICAL MESSAGE?  YOU DECIDE

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I was concerned that closing the library in the run-up to the elections
would be seen as a political move.  Maybe it should be, but the fact is
that we can't pay salaries after October 1 so it does not matter how it is
seen.   ****

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Months ago we warned the Mayor, Richard Peres, the MATNAS board and anyone
else that would listen that the Benjamin Childrens Library was running out
of money.  The Mayor listened and promised NIS 70,000 that he knew he
didn't have. Richard Peres listened, the MATNAS leadership listened - but
they have enough problems of their own.   The Town’s Treasurer, Bardugo
listened, then admitted that he had tricked us.  ****

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We threatened, we negotiated, we publicized - we got lots of praise for the
great job we do - and we got no money.****

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The assumption is that the Anglos will find money somewhere to keep the
library open.  They always have before - why should this time be
different.   The fact is that the library serves thousands of children -
native Hebrew speakers, native Russian speakers, native Amharic speakers as
well as native English speakers.    ****

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I have been the chairman of the library for the past twelve years.   Other
than for my children, there is nothing else in the world that I am prouder
of than my work for the library.   With that said, the Benjamin Children's
Library will close on September 30, and will re-open when the town provides
financial support to the library.   If the current Mayor sends money, I
will thank him in the press and ask you to thank him as well.   If he does
not, then this really is a political message, saying that we hope to
re-open when the Mayor or his mind is changed.****

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Jody Stein

Chairman, Benjamin Children’s Library****

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