Baltimore Jewish Home - 6-29-23

Dear Readers,

Last week, four siblings were finally found in the Amazon after surviving 40 days alone after the small plane they had been on crashed in the jungle. The oldest child was 13 years old; the youngest was an infant. After their mother died just days after the crash, the children started their journey for survival. They managed to evade jaguars and poisonous snakes and members of cartels and militias. They collected drinking water and foraged for food, eating small fruits they knew were not poisonous. When I heard their story, I was in awe. These kids proved to be resourceful and resilient. They used their wits and the wisdom they had been taught to survive the elements, looking out for each other and taking care of one another. My kids call my wife ten times if they go on a simple shopping trip to 7 Mile!

But as I thought about it, I realized that we don’t give our kids enough credit. Kids, by nature, are resourceful. Watch them play with random toys, and soon you’ll see an elaborate castle or bridge or moat made out of straws and stones and blocks. They’re creative when given the opportunity and capable of navigating many situations.

But we don’t always give them the chance to hone those skills. We, understandably, do not leave children under a certain age alone at home. We also don’t want them turning on the flame and making dinner. But don’t think that makes our kids less capable. We, the parents, just have to be more creative in producing other opportunities that will foster an environment ripe for their resourcefulness.

The summer is perhaps the best time to create these opportunities. With no homework and a more relaxed schedule for many of us, it’s a great time to take children to places where they can bring forth those skills that they naturally have. Playing in the sand at the beach, creating a bonfire, making projects out of random objects...the summer was made for these types of activities.

But even if your children aren’t around you during the summer, camp is also a fitting venue to hone those innate skills. Learning to deal with different bunkmates, figuring out what to do when they run out of socks, deciding what to do when they don’t like what’s being served for dinner...your children will have to deal with these situations on their own without heading to you for constant input.

This past week I dropped two of my daughters off at the bus heading to their camp. I observed kids crying, mothers crying, and yes, even one father crying. It was tough saying goodbye- even for a short period of time. Tough- because as parents we realize that in order for our kids to become independent and productive adults, they need to learn to live “without us.”

At the same time it’s exhilarating to know that your kids are going to have the time of their lives. To create memories, friendships, and skills that will shape their future.

Have a good shabbos, Aaron Menachem

HOSTED

Around the Community

Baltimore’s Best!

On Sunday, June 18th, The Chesed Fund & Project Ezra once again acknowledged and celebrated unique members of our community. The 9th Annual Community & Safety Service Award Ceremony, sponsored by Lois and Bruce Kauffman, is in memory of Philip Kauffman, Rosalie Zwagil, and Paul Naden, a”h. Every year community members are asked to submit nominations for youth and adults who go above and beyond by providing service or safety and security for our community.

This year’s winners did not disappoint. Eight-year-old Tzviki Simpson was awarded the Good Neighbor award for jumping to his toddler neighbor’s rescue when he saw her on

her riding toy about to nosedive down several hard concrete steps. Nineyear-old Hillel Bailey, alerted adults, on two different occasions, to toddlers who were lost and wandering alone. He also always helps his friends when falling off or riding bikes.

The Rabbinical Award was given to warm-hearted and humble Rabbi Nachum Katsenelenbogen of Chabad of Owings Mills, who for years has helped so many discover and appreciate their heritage. Also recognized for his efforts was David Mandel for his work at the Agudah of Park Heights and Bnai Jacob Shaarei Zion, managing shaimos and seforim. Dr. Sam Durso, who always goes the extra mile for his patients, and Yaakov Benyowitz, a Chaverim member, ready to

help in so many ways and at all hours, were also awarded for their efforts and chesed to our community. These are just several amongst many more of the special community members awarded who are true treasures and inspirations to us all.

Although Frank Storch, founder of the Chesed Fund and Project Ezra, was in Israel this year focusing on seminaries and yeshivas with his Stay Safe in Israel initiative, Frank commented, “Acknowledging people who are willing to do so much for others in so many ways is about a lot more than just showing hakaras hatov. It should be seen as a motivational lesson for each of us, reminding us that we are part of a greater community and there is so much we can learn from and do for

each other. It’s important to remember that sometimes, even a minor act we do instinctively can mean the world to someone else. These days, it’s essential to shine a light on just some of the many positive acts of chesed in Baltimore that often go unnoticed, and we look forward to awarding more unique community members next year!

If you know of someone you think may deserve this honor, feel free to submit that information to us now for next year’s award! Send in your contact information, the nominee’s contact information, and the reason you think they deserve an award to info@ chesedfund.com.

Photo Credits: Baruch Bitman of Simcha Focus

Around the Community A “Groundbreaking” Event

Kehillas Derech Chaim celebrated their longawaited groundbreaking this Sunday, June 18th, at their future home, 6603 & 6605 Pimlico Road. Hundreds of men, women and children gathered in the warm presence of the local Rabbanim, Roshei Yeshiva, and Roshei Ha’ir. Along with “I helped build Derech Chaim” balloons, bulldozer mementos and tasty refreshments, a meaningful groundbreaking unfolded.

Beginning with Tehillim led by Dr. Ron Samet, the program commenced with the Rosh Yeshiva, Rav Aharon Feldman, shlita, who shared words of chizuk, expounding on the power of a shul and Rabbi Gross’ high standards

of Torah and Avodah. Next, Rabbi Hopfer, the Rosh Ha’ir, highlighted the chizuk and inspiration generated from building a distinctive corner amidst this galus and seeing the geulah in the near future, led by a Rav who, in the words of Rabbi Hopfer, “is going to be recognized as not only a gadol in Baltimore, but also in the entire country…”.

Mr. Dovid Zweig represented many hard-working congregants who put countless hours into the many aspects of the building of the shul. He highlighted how unique and special the kehilla is and how gently and wisely the Rav guides each member to grow in Torah and Yiras Shamayim. The Rav, Rabbi Gross, shlita, ended with words

of thanks and chizuk, appreciating every single member as a contributor to the greatness of the kehilla, adding something special and unique to the klal. He also stressed how the new building will help enhance the foundations on which the shul was built, the centrality of Torah learning as the foundation of the home. Additionally, the Rav stressed that the shul creates a kehilla, a family, in which each member cares about the other member, and how the shul is a source of spirituality and life every member of the family - men, women and children.

In closing, Rabbi Gross pointed out that just as a crown is more beautiful the more jewels adorn it, (the crown of Hashem), the city of Baltimore is dec-

orated with many jewels, many shuls. The Rav’s hope is that, with the new building, Derech Chaim will add another jewel to the beautiful crown of the Baltimore community and increase kavod Shamayim.

The event concluded with members and guests- including Baltimore City Councilman Yitzy Schleifer and Baltimore County Councilman Izzy Patoka - donning hard hats and grabbing shovels, seizing the opportunity to dig into the ground that, with the help of Hashem, will bring another beautiful shul building to the strong and unified Baltimore community in the near future.

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Sunday Baseball League’s (SBL) 3rd/4th Grade Championship, Showcasing Community Achdus & Middos

The Sunday Baseball League (SBL) 3rd/4th grade championship is in the books! The #4 Grasshoppers coached by Hillel Cohen upset the #1 Ironbirds, coached by Yaakov Sonnenblick, 8-4 at Northwest Academy of Health Sciences.

SBL is a hardball league serving over 400 boys in our community, providing a highly organized and enjoyable experience. The teams posed for a post-game unity picture, showcasing the achdus and middos that SBL is known for.

Masmidei Layla of Baltimore - MLB

Masmidei Layla of Baltimore at the Agudah of Park Heights is back for its third year, starting Monday night June 26th. Last year hundreds of boys of all ages participated. The learning takes place in the packed and electric Agudah Beis Medrash.

The program runs Sunday to Thursday from 6:30- 7:30 during the summer months from June 25th - Au-

gust 25th. There is forty five minutes of learning followed by refreshments and raffles.

There are many incentives for those that attend the program. There is a special MLB Weekly raffle for boys who learn and chazer 50 Mishnayos a week or learn 2 blatt Gemara. In addition, boys can earn a grand raffle ticket for learning 250 Mishnayus or 12 blatt Gemara that they learn or review at

the program over the summer. These grand raffle prizes include a new set of Oz Vehadar Shas, a set of Artscroll Mikraos Gedolos and gift cards to the Candy Store and Shabsies.

There are also nightly raffles for all attendees. After the learning time, the boys are treated to delicious refreshments, including, ice cream, ices, cholent, poppers, doughnuts and more.

Rabbi Zvi Schwartz who founded the program comments.

“Summer vacation and organized

summer night learning used to be an oxymoron. Not anymore. MLB has been a game changer. The summer evenings at the Agudah are a unique opportunity for boys to learn with a chavrusa or father in a structured and exciting setting. We look forward once again to the tens of thousands of Mishnayus and hundreds of blatt learned, Mesechtas completed and the happy faces of boys that are radiating the simcha and chiyus of learning Torah

Parsha & Pizza: A Night of Insight and Connection

ASingle Impact hosted its 14th Parsha & Pizza on Wednesday, June 21. Single, divorced, and widowed men and women enjoyed Mrs. Judy Landman’s insightful words about Parshas Korach and then schmoozed while eating pizza. Upcoming speakers: Mr. Ari

Elbaum, Mrs. Ahuva Heyman, Rabbi Goldberger, Mr. Andrew Singer, Mr. Menachem Mendel Davis, and more. Want to sponsor or speak? Reach out to contact@asingleimpact. com. Find out more information at asingleimpact.com/pizza

Moshe Friedman, Meir Sadwin, and Yitzchok Burkom celebrating back to back championships!

SBL 5th and 6th Grade League Champions!

TA’s Hadran Aloch: Our Torah. Our Key. Recap

By: BJLife Newsroom BaltimoreJewishLife.com/Jeff Cohn

From the bottom of our hearts, thank you to everyone who participated in this week’s “Hadran Aloch - Our Torah, Our Key” Campaign. You have ensured that the learning, geshmak, excitement, warmth and ruach felt every day in TA will continue.

Ateres Bais Yaakov | Atlanta Jewish Academy | Bader Hillel | Bais Brocho | Bais

Yaakov Aderes Miriam | Bais Yaakov Baltimore | Bais Yaakov HS of Twin Cities |

Bais Yaakov LA | Bais Yaakov Machon Ora | Bais Yaakov of Boston | Bais Yaakov

of Miami | Beis Chana | Ben Gamla HS | Beren Academy | Berman Hebrew

Academy | Beth Chana Academy | Beth Rivka | Beth Tfiloh Dahan | Bnos

Menachem | Brownell-Talbot School | Bruriah HS | Chabad Yeshiva High Schools

| Chaviva High School | Columbus Torah Academy | de Toledo HS | Donna Klein

Jewish Academy | DRS | Ezra Academy | Farber | Fasman | Frisch | Fuchs

Mizrahi | Gann Academy | Golda Ochs Academy | Great Neck North | Hadar |

HAFTR | HANC | Hanna Sacks | Hebrew Academy of Montreal | Heichal HaTorah

| Hillel Deal | Ida Crown | Ilan | JEC | Katz Yeshiva HS | Kohelet | Kosloff Torah

Academy | Kushner | Lubavitcher HS | Ma’ayanot | Magen David | Magen David

International | Maimonides School Brookline | Maimonides School Chile | Manhattan

HS | Margolin Hebrew Academy-Feinstone Yeshiva of the South | Mesivta Ateres

Yaakov | Mesivta Birkas Yitzchok | Mesivta High School of Greater Philadelphia |

Mesivta HS | Mesorah HS | Naaleh HS | Ner Israel | New England Jewish Academy

| North Shore Hebrew Academy | Northwest Yeshiva HS | Ohr Yisroel of Tenafly |

Or Chaim | Posnack | Ramaz | Rambam Mesivta | RASG | Reenas Bais Yaakov

| SAR | Scheck Hillel | SCY High | Shaarei Bina | Shalhevet | Shearim Torah HS |

Shevach HS | Shulamith (Brooklyn) | Shulamith (Cedarhurst) | Sinai Academy |

SKA | Solomon Schechter Westchester | TABC | Tanenbaum CHAT | Temimah

HS | TGA | The Hebrew Academy-Chabad | Tiferes Bais Yaakov | Torah Academy of the Pacific Northwest | Torah HS of San Diego | Tree of Knowledge | Ulpanat

Orot | Valley Torah | Westchester Hebrew HS | WITS Yeshiva | Yavneh Dallas |

Yavneh HS for Girls | YDE | Yeshiva Darchei Torah of Toronto | Yeshiva of Cleveland

| Yeshiva of Far Rockaway | Yeshiva of Greater Washington | Yeshiva of Virginia |

Yeshiva Ohr Elchonon Chabad | Yeshiva Ohr Israel of Boston | Yeshiva Ohr Simcha

| Yeshiva Ohr Yisrael | Yeshiva Shaar Hatorah | Yeshiva Tiferes Torah of Boca

Raton | Yeshivah of Flatbush | Yeshivas Ohavei Torah | Yeshivat Mekor Chaim |

Yesodei Yeshurun | YUHSB-MTA | YUHSG-Central | YULA Boys | YULA Girls

Baltimore’s Yeshivas Mekor Chaim Celebrates First Graduating Class in Inaugural Commencement Ceremony

By: BJLife/Isaac Draiman BaltimoreJewishLife.com/Jeff Cohn

Baltimore’s Yeshivas Mekor Chaim (YMC) held its inaugural commencement ceremony for its first graduating class. To mark this milestone day, staff, parents, students and their families gathered to share words of Torah,

inspiration and appreciation.

Opening remarks were given by Rabbi Uri Grosberg, Menahel, who ended with a meaningful brachah to the graduates. Dani Carter, one of the graduates, shared poignant reflections highlighting the resiliency and bond formed by being the first YMC class during a pandemic. Rabbi Shmuel Silber, Dean, made a special presentation and expressed a

tremendous hakaros hatov to Rabbi Elie Tuchman, the founding head of school. This was followed by an eloquent valedictorian address, given by Avi Friedman and inspirational closing remarks given by Rabbi Silber, after which all of the attendees gathered for a dessert reception in honor of the graduates.

The YMC administration, staff, board members and families wish a

heartfelt mazal tov to the following YMC graduates and their families: Yaakov Abramson, Daniel Carter, Zev Charner, Avraham Friedman, Daniel Gunzberg, Zechariah Lerner, Isaac Reitberger, Jonathan Rosen, Avraham Schulman and Andrew Shindel. We wish you much hatzlacha next year in Eretz Yisrael and in all of your future endeavors!

Jewish Educational Services Presents Sam Kahan Distinguished Educator Award to

Beth Tfiloh Teacher

Teachers. They are one of our most important resources in the community. At Jewish Educational Services (JES), an agency of The Associated, the focus is to support Jewish schools – early childhood, day school and congregational – along with the educators, students and parents. One area of attention is appreciating the hard and extremely valuable work that teachers do every day. In that effort, every year JES recognizes one outstanding Jewish educator, who serves as an inspiration to both students and peers, by awarding them the Sam Kahan Distinguished Jewish Educator Award.

This award was established by Sam Kahan upon completion of his service to the Associated as Campaign Chair and continued by his family in order to honor Sam for his many years of community leadership. This award perpetuates Sam’s legacy of personal commitment to Jewish education and

to strengthening Baltimore’s Jewish educational institutions. The recipient of this award receives a $1,500 stipend and new this year, the school of that educator also receives a $1,000 professional development grant.

This year’s Educator Recognition Awards were chaired by Julie Tonti, Director of Community Partnerships in Education at JES. Principals were asked to nominate up to three Judaic Studies educators and each educator also needed to send in a personal statement. The Educator Awards committee reviewed all the nominations and then

went to observe each teacher in their classroom in order to make the very hard decision of whom to grant the award. “The committee was extremely impressed by the talent and diversity of the candidate pool,” said Julie Tonti.

On June 14th, at the JES Annual Meeting, the Sam Kahan Distinguished Jewish Educator Award was bestowed upon Brachie Frankel, a lower school educator at Beth Tfiloh Dahan Community School. According the Elana Weissman, Lower School Principal, “Brachie has the ability to connect to her students on an academic, personal,

and spiritual level. Each moment in the classroom is a precious teachable moment, a sacred opportunity to imbue a love of Judaism, Torah, and Hashem into her 3rd-grade students.”

It was clear that she is a well-loved educator, with many of her peers and young students attending the event to see her receive her award in person.

Ann Kahan, Sam’s wife, introduced the award and spoke from the heart about her husband, offering a glimpse into his life. She emphasized that for him, Jewish Education was paramount and the key for preserving Jewish identity and continuity. He believed in providing professional development and enrichment for educators who accept the responsibilities and challenges of imparting the best Jewish education possible.

The Baltimore community is blessed to have so many talented and dedicated teachers working in the schools.

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Tell us about yourself, where are you from? What’s your background?

I am from Los Angeles, CA and my parents are from Israel & Argentina. I went to school at Shalhevet HS, Yeshivat Reishit, and then YU, where I graduated with a general business degree. I moved to Baltimore from New York after my marriage to my wife Jill (Venick) who is a 4th generation Baltimorean. We are blessed with five children; Judah, Maytal, Aaron, Noah, and Liana, and they all attend Ohr Chadash Academy. No one pronounces my name correctly.

What shul are you a part of? What does your learning schedule look like?

I pray at the Chabad Israeli Center, and a member of PJC, and Suburban Orthodox. I learn Chitas on a daily basis and deliver a weekly shiur on Tanya. Additionally, I have a YouTube channel where I talk openly about Modern Day Judaism and Chassidus (@yidwithalid).

to laboratories, and operates in 13 states.

What interested you initially about making cemetery memorials?

When I joined Fram Monument Company in 2010, I quickly realized how antiquated the industry was. Other industries were advancing with modern technology, yet this age old business had not yet adapted. I felt strongly that customers deserved a better experience than what was currently being offered in the industry, and took the opportunity to modernize the business. Customers now meet with us virtually, design their memorials digitally, receive automated updates and completion photos, and overall have a much easier time completing an emotionally difficult task.

What makes your business unique?

Although we sell a product, I consider us a service company. Our clients are all suffering through a difficult time and treating them with a high level of care is crucial. We do our very

ness ventures have seen, the most important aspect has been the company culture that I have bred. It required setting an example from upper leadership, all the way down to how we treat the FedEx delivery associate. Every member of our team recognizes that we have the opportunity to make a real kiddush Hashem doing what we do. We will often forgo profits in order to ‘do the right thing’ for our customers, in an effort to earn the ultimate profit from Above.

What’s the best advice you’ve received?

Give as much tzedaka as you possibly can. If you can not think twice before buying yourself something, then you shouldn’t spend time deciding whether you can donate or not. Just do it! It will pay material and spiritual dividends galore.

What keeps you ticking day-in and day-out?

Aside from Fram Monument, I also

transports lab samples, organs, and pharmaceuticals. I recently launched a startup called AfterLife which digitalizes the end-of-life planning process. I recently helped found a new Jewish non-profit that will benefit the greater Baltimore community. This will be launching in the near future!

Do you have any hobbies?

I play ice hockey, golf, guitar, and piano. I created and manage a Jewish boy’s ice hockey league which just completed its 5th year! It allows the Baltimore Orthodox community to play a sport that is typically only available on Shabbos, and thankfully we have over 55 kids in the league annually. A lot of those kids’ parents started playing because of it as well!

Any last words of advice you can give to someone who is early in their business career?

Set long-term goals and don’t get deterred by the hiccups. Every obstacle is an opportunity to improve. Treat the obstacles as a stepping stone towards achieving your ultimate goal.

How do you pronounce your name?

Neeeeeeeeeev!

Thank You Niv for being such an important part of the Baltimore community!

The Week In News

ations is inconsistent with US foreign policy,” State Department spokesman Matthew Miller said.

U.S. Severs Ties with Science/ Tech in West Bank

In a dramatic and astonishing move, the United States said on Monday that it would cut support of scientific and technology research in Israeli institutions in the West Bank, East Jerusalem and Golan Heights. The policy had been reversed under former U.S. President Donald Trump.

New guidance to U.S. government agencies advises that “engaging in bilateral scientific and technological cooperation with Israel in geographic areas which came under the administration of Israel after 1967 and which remain subject to final-status negoti-

He stressed that the United States “strongly values scientific and technological cooperation with Israel” and said the restriction on West Bank funding “is reflective of the long-standing US position going back decades.”

The decision will most visibly apply to Ariel University, a major academic institution founded in 1982.

In a briefing with reporters on Sunday, Foreign Minister Eli Cohen protested the move. “I object to the decision and think it is wrong. In similar cases in the past, the Israeli government fully reimbursed parties damaged by such decisions,” Cohen said.

The policy was briefly reversed under former U.S. President Donald Trump, when Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and then-U.S. Ambassador David Friedman signed an agreement that removed all previous geographic restrictions from the two countries’ scientific cooperation.

Members of Congress rebuked the Biden administration for their decision.

Members of the rival Republican Party attacked the administration’s decision on Monday.

Senator Ted Cruz slammed the administration for what he called “antisemitic discrimination” against Jews in the West Bank and said it was “pathologically obsessed with undermining Israel.”

Amb. Friedman accused the Biden administration of embracing the activist movement to boycott Israel. The administration however says it opposes the Boycott, Divestment, Sanctions (BDS) movement, which calls for severing ties with Israel as a whole, not just settlements.

Special Olympics Win

Israel won big at the Special Olympics held in Berlin last week, bringing home 25 medals – up from 19 medal won at the last games in 2019.

Thirty-five athletes hailing from the Holy Land won nine gold medals, eight silvers and eight bronze medals across all eight disciplines in which they competed at the international competition, which ended on Sunday.

“As promised, we are coming back to Israel with a multitude of medals,” said Sharon Levy-Blanga, CEO of the Special Olympics Israel organization, on Sunday. “Victories in competitions and podium placements in the highest levels of competition – these are phe-

The Entire Sefer Tehillim

at the Ohr Hachaim Hakadosh on Har Hazeisim

however, specifying the measures en-

“We have concerns about curricula or classroom instruction that promote violence and terrorism. It’s a work in progress, and we are committed to it,” Leaf said, as quoted by Ynet

Created in 1949, UNRWA supplies aid to more than three million of the five million registered “Palestinian refugees” in Jordan, Lebanon, Syria and territories assigned to the Palestinian Authority. However, it is also notorious for its anti-Israel activities. During the 2014 counterterrorism Operation Protective Edge, Hamas rockets were discovered inside a school building run by UNRWA.

Likewise, a booby-trapped UNRWA clinic was detonated, killing three IDF soldiers. Aside from the massive amounts of explosives hidden in the walls of the clinic, it was revealed that it stood on top of dozens of terror tunnels, showing how UNRWA is closeembedded with Hamas.

In 2021, a UN Watch report rethat more than 100 of UNRWA’s educators and staff have publicly promoted antisemitism and violence on social media, and that on numerous occasions, the agency has failed to dismiss teachers who incited such hate.

In March, UN Watch and the Institute for Monitoring Peace and Cultural Tolerance in School Education (IMPACT-se) published a report which found that teachers and schools at UNRWA regularly call to murder Jews, and create teaching materials that glorify terrorism, encourage martyrdom, demonize Israelis and incite antisemitism.

Foiled Terrorist Attack in Cyprus

On Sunday evening, an Iranian terrorist plot in Cyprus was thwarted by the country’s intelligence agencies, with help from Israel and the U.S. The attack

As thousands stream to the kever of the Ohr Hachaim on his yahrtzeit, make sure your te llos are there too Join the many who have seen their yeshuah, from health to parnassah to shidduchim and beyond, in the zechus of the Ohr Hachaim Hakadosh.

The Week In News

was reportedly going to be perpetrated on a Chabad House or a kosher restaurant, with the goal of murdering Jews and Israelis.

In recognition of the events that had transpired, Israel said that it would continue fighting against Iranian terrorism.

“The State of Israel operates using a wide variety of methods in every place to protect Jews and Israelis,” the Prime Minister’s Office stated, “and will continue to act to destroy Iranian terrorism wherever it raises its head, including on Iranian soil.”

Six people were arrested in connection to the proposed attack and are said to have connections with the Iranian army’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps, a group many nations consider to be a terrorist organization.

This isn’t Iran’s first foiled plot against Jews and Israelis in Cyprus and surrounding areas. In October 2021, an Israeli businessman visiting Cyprus was targeted by Iran, according to Israel. In March 2023, Iran sent two Pakistani terrorists to murder Israelis in Greece. In November, Iran sent

a Pakistani terrorist to kill an Israeli in Georgia, and last summer, Iranian terrorists tried murdering Israelis in Istanbul. All of these attempts failed, having been stopped and prevented by authorities.

Cyprus and Greece attract many Israeli tourists, and as such, also attracts terrorists as well.

Israel Seizes Iran’s Crypto

According to Defense Minister Yoav Gallant, Israel had recently seized digital wallets linked to Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps’ Quds Force and the Iran-backed Hezbollah terror group, confiscating millions of dollars in cryptocurrency.

Speaking at a conference hosted by the ministry’s National Bureau for Counter Terror Financing (NBCTF), Gallant said the operation several days ago was the first of its kind against cryptocurrency assets linked to the IRGC and Lebanon’s Hezbollah terror

group. In the past, Israel has seized dozens of digital wallets linked to the Hamas terror group.

“A few days ago, an extensive and precedent-setting operation — to expose a route for financing terror with digital currencies — was wrapped up. This is the first incident of this magnitude, in which an infrastructure led by Hezbollah and the Iranian Quds Force that transferred millions of dollars to be used by terror elements was thwarted,” Gallant shared.

He added that since the beginning of the year, members of Hezbollah, the IRGC’s Quds Force, and “Syrian elements” have used cryptocurrency to fund their daily activities. The funding comes from a third party and is handed over to the terror groups via money exchangers.

“Whoever finances terror, or maintains a financial relationship with terror operatives, must know that he is a target, just like anyone who directs terrorism,” he warned, noting Iran’s involvement.

“As you can see, this time too there is a clear line behind the terror [financ-

ing] moves that originate in Iran. Iran is the financier, trainer, and spreader of terrorism against Israel and many countries around the world, both directly and through its proxies at the borders,” Gallant said.

He continued, “I issued an order that allowed the seizure of the funds, their confiscation, and the transfer of the money to the treasury of the State of Israel. In doing so, we have actually cut off the flow of terror funds along this route.”

In May it was reported that Israel seized 189 cryptocurrency accounts on the Binance exchange site linked to Palestinian and Islamist terror groups since 2021.

Israel is Really Pro America

The State of Israel is the second-most pro-America country in the world, according to a Pew Research poll released this week. Additionally, Israelis have a more positive view of

The Week In News

the U.S. than Americans in some ways.

year but has not yet reached former President Donald Trump’s peak at 71%. Trump’s high score tied with former president Barack Obama’s in 2013, but they are also tied for the lowest score since 2000, 56%, which they received in 2009 and 2017. The U.S. president with the best score among Israelis in the last 20 years was George W. Bush, with 83% approval in 2003.

(74%) also believed that the United States contributes to world peace and stability, something that fewer Americans (69%) believe.

According to the poll, eighty-seven percent of Israelis have a positive view of the U.S. The only country in which the US has a higher favorability rating is Poland, at 93%. Hungarians view America the least positive, at 44%.

Israel’s current view of the U.S. is the most positive since 2000, and improved slightly from last year, at 83%.

Sixty-eight percent of Israelis have confidence in U.S. President Joe Biden’s “leadership of world affairs,” similar to how he is viewed in Sweden, Kenya, Nigeria, Germany, and the Netherlands. Biden’s highest score came from Poland and the lowest from Hungary.

Israelis’ view of Biden improved eight percentage points since last

For over 20 years, Pew has asked respondents around the world whether they believe the US takes countries like theirs into account, and most typically say no. In Israel, however, 80% said yes, the highest score of all. The international median is 49%, and 71% of Americans said yes. This is the second-highest score Israel has given the U.S. in that area; in 2018, when Trump was president and recognized Jerusalem as Israel’s capital, he received 86%.

Most respondents in every country polled said that the U.S. interferes in their affairs. In Israel, 88% said so, putting it about on par with Japan, South Korea, Spain, Sweden, France, and Canada.

About three-fourths of Israelis

In addition, since the pandemic, respondents are more likely to view the U.S., rather than China, as the world’s leading economic power. Across 23 nations, 41% answered the U.S., while 33% named China. In Israel, 61% said the U.S., while only 20% chose China, another 3% said the EU and 4% Japan.

Pew conducted its surveys among 27,285 adults in 23 countries.

Billionaire Testifies Against Bibi

Netanyahu has been accused of corruption and fraud for having allegedly given political favors in exchange for many expensive items from businessman, Israeli film producer, and personal friend Arnon Milchan.

The trial against Netanyahu started on June 25, with the prime minister going to the District Court in Jerusalem to hear testimony. Milchan testified on Zoom from Brighton, UK, with Sara, Netanyahu’s wife, in the same conference room as him.

According to the indictment, Netanyahu and his wife received 700,000 shekels worth of presents from Milchan, and in return, the prime minister helped him in certain ways, such as by assisting him in getting a long-term U.S. residency visa.

The Deputy State Attorney in the trial is Liat Ben Ari; Netanyahu’s Defense Attorney is Amit Hadad.

Ben Ari, at one point, accused Sara Netanyahu of “making eye contact with the witness the whole time,” adding that “it is forbidden to make faces to the witness, and it is forbidden to hint to him anything.” Amit said there is no law against such actions.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin

The Week In News

When questioned by Ben Ari, Milchan revealed that in the beginning, it was simply a matter of him offering gifts, such as expensive cigars and champagnes, to the Netanyahus. Soon after, they started asking him for items, going as far as to refer to the presents by codenames, such as “leaves” for cigars, “pink” for champagne, and “dwarves” for shirts.

“I was doing this not as a friend, but as a citizen. I didn’t want the prime minister to have problems not connected to his job. It became routine,” the billionaire testified. “The relationship was very comfortable so there was no bad feeling about it. The amounts got more and more at the request of the recipients.”

Milchan noted a time when he was particularly concerned about possible legal ramifications. Sara Netanyahu had asked for expensive jewelry, and Milchan insisted that the prime minister first make sure that the giving of such a gift is legal.

“I asked Sara to allow me to speak with her husband because I want to be sure he won’t get into trouble, that it is allowed. It had begun to seem to me a bit too much and I can’t judge what

is and what isn’t [OK],” Milchan said. “I had no problem giving gladly, but I was afraid there could be a complication for the prime minister and his wife so I requested that he get a legal opinion from the attorney general, and he got back to me and said he got approval from the attorney general and the answer was that friends can get gifts from friends, apart from a house, and there is no limit [to how much you can get].”

Charedi IDF Exemptions Extended

Young charedi Israeli Jews have generally been exempted from serving in the Israeli army, as most are fulltime learners. The law allowing for such exemptions was about to expire, and as such, the Israeli government approved a decision to maintain the status quo, allowing charedi men to stay out of the IDF.

The temporary extension of this law, which was put into place on Sun-

day, will last until March 31, 2024. By then, a new law is expected to take its place.

The High Court of Justice overturned this law in 2017, and an expiration date was set. Due to the high court’s decision six years ago, the law itself cannot remain in place in the long term and requires a replacement bill in the future.

The future bill, which the government promised to present before the Knesset’s winter session, is anticipated to bring the charedi exemption age down from 26 to 23, allowing charedi adults to start working at a younger age. In addition, Defense Minister Yoav Gallant and Bezalel Smotrich are expected to introduce plans to Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in an effort to enhance a soldier’s quality of life. Such proposals will be outlined in the forty-five days following the Sunday decision.

While many celebrate the government’s decision for making it easier for young Israeli Jews to engage in meaningful religious pursuits, some have gone on to criticize the law for potentially allowing people to dodge the draft legally.

Engagements

“Without full equality in sharing the burden in the economy and in security, we will not have a country,” Avigdor Liberman said, asserting that the decision is “another stop on the way to an evasion law, instead of a conscription law for all.”

Train Derails in Montana

Early Saturday morning a train derailed in Montana, causing a bridge to collapse into the Yellowstone River and sending multiple cars into the water. The damaged rail cars were carrying “molten sulfur and asphalt,” according to a statement from Montana Rail Link.

Two cars carrying sodium hydrogen sulfate were part of the derailment but neither landed in the river “and initial air quality assessments

Dani Weber (Baltimore) & Estie Luss (Toronto)

Yossi Malka (Lakewood) & Hadassah Lavianlivi (Baltimore)

Yaakov Goldstein (Baltimore) & Esther Yelen (Lakewood)

Gershon Koppel (Five Towns) & Chana Arno (Baltimore)

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have been performed and confirmed that there is no release event associated with those two cars,” the railroad said.

The derailed Montana Rail Link train cars included “several hazmat cars,” the regional rail company noted.

The crew from the train were safe, with no injuries.

The cause of the derailment has not yet been determined.

Officials were asking people to stay away from the area.

“Local fishing accesses will be closed. Water treatment plants, irrigation districts, and industrial companies are taking appropriate precautions,” the Yellowstone County Sheriff’s Office said.

Diwali is NYC School Holiday

Public school students in NYC are now getting another day off. Now, officials have granted students off for Diwali, a Hindu holiday celebrating the festival of lights, which generally comes out around November time.

Dibya Talukder, who spoke at a press conference on Monday at City Hall to celebrate the passage of a state bill making Diwali a holiday, said she could not take off Diwali when she was a student in Queens.

“If I did take off, I would miss class and I would fall behind in my schoolwork,” said Talukder, now a sophomore at Cornell University. “But from today onward, Diwali is now a day off,” she added. “All the Hindu children now get to feel like they belong.”

Public schools in NYC are required to give students 180 days of instruction. The district will be able to meet the statutory requirement to provide enough days of schooling by using professional development days in addition to instructional days.

“It’s less about the fact that schools will be closed in recognition of Diwali,” said Schools Chancellor David Banks. “It is more about the fact that minds will be opened because of what we are going to teach them about Diwali.”

Education officials will have at least a year to finalize the scheduling challenges, as both Diwali and the Lu-

nar New Year fall on weekends next school year.

The bill now moves onto the governor for her signature, and Mayor Eric Adams said he expects Gov. Hochul to sign it.

Gulf of Mexico Claims More Lives

Panama City Beach in Florida is becoming dangerous for tourists. Three more people died over the weekend in the Gulf of Mexico in three separate incidents at different resorts.

The toll is now seven along the coast of Bay County within nine days – the highest number of beach fatalities for any single locale in the U.S. for 2023, according to a database kept by the National Weather Service.

Rip current deaths, which include fatalities from high surf and sneaker waves, have trended up nationwide in recent years, hitting a high of 113 in 2021, according to the weather service.

Last year, 69 deaths were reported. Already this year, 60 surf zone-related deaths have occurred, including 27 in Florida. Thirteen people have died in Puerto Rico.

Some of these deaths could have been prevented. All of the victims on Saturday in Panama City Beach were tourists who died after grappling with rip currents, and in every instance but one, double red flags were posted, meaning the gulf was closed to swimmers, who risked being penalized with a $500 fine.

Over the past 10 days, there were reports of 70 distressed swimmers, about 40 of them on Saturday.

Watermelon Snow

Heading to Utah? You may not be seeing white, snow-capped mountains. People in that state are saying

Shuiey Shapiro, CSP

The Week In News

that they’ve been seeing snow on the ground tinged with a pinkish hue.

The phenomenon is known as “watermelon snow,” and it’s seen in regions around the world.

Unbelievably, the red tinge is a result of green algae that thrives in cold, snowy environments. In some cases, the algae take on a red tint; in others, it can turn snow purple, green or orange.

It’s s-now crazy.

The Big Can-Can

their old campaign, which was called “Tito’s in a Can” and sold $20 refillable cans aimed at spurring people’s inner mixologists.

According to Tito’s, customers have been asking the brand to make canned cocktails. But the company has refused, saying it prefers to make vodka – straight up – and lets customers do the rest.

“Tito’s was built on the idea that if you are going to do something, do it well, and charge a reasonable amount, which is why all of our energy is focused on making the best-quality vodka around. We believe that by taking mixology into your own hands, you can customize drinks to your liking, rather than continuing to get stuck with a variety pack flavor you hate,” Berry added.

pieces of art tattooed on their bodies for around $100-$200.

Renowned tattoo artist Henk Schiffmacher is one half of the team Schiffmacher & Veldhoen, who are recreating works by the 17th-century artist in the pop-up project.

“Worldwide, more tattoos are sold than works of art to hang on your wall,” Schiffmacher said. “An old tattoo artist once called tattoos ‘The Poor Man’s Rembrandt’: a work of art that is more affordable than a painting by one of the old masters, but no less carefully executed and selected.”

earned him the title Friday night as champion of the World’s Ugliest Dog Contest.

Or maybe it was his shock-headed, mohawk-like hair — strands that stood high in defiance of gravity — that pleased the judges in Petaluma, California, at the Sonoma-Marin Fair.

His tongue hangs loose from his mouth. His hind legs are reversed. His wee and gray tail is wispy.

And he sure is easy to love, the judges concluded.

Sometimes you need a gimmick to sell a bunch of nothing. And that’s what Tito’s is doing with its “Tito’s in a Big Can” campaign.

The company is selling – for $200! – an empty 128-ounce mini-

Vodka is the top-selling spirit in the United States, raking in more than $7 billion in sales last year, according to the Distilled Spirits Council of the U.S. (DISCUS). Tito’s has grown in popularity since the Texas-based brand began in 1995 by Bert “Tito” Beveridge. It is now the country’s top-selling vodka brand.

We can’t believe it.

He added: “For us, it is an incredible honor to work in the place where Rembrandt’s soul can still be felt, and to work with his etchings and drawings. Grand and small art coming together.”

The artist and the tattooists now replicating his work are “deeply rooted in the DNA of Amsterdam,” according to the museum’s website, which adds: “Where Rembrandt used a copper plate and sheet of paper to turn his composition into an etching, tattoo artists apply their drawing to human skin; the end result is a work of art that you carry with you for life.”

Patrons are able to choose from a few different designs, including original etchings by Rembrandt, Rembrandt’s signature, and his monogram.

Believe it or not, people are excited about this newest ink offering. The first 90 bookable time slots have already sold out.

Rembrandt lived in the house on the Jodenbreestraat for almost two decades from 1639. The property has been restored so visitors can experience how he lived and worked at the height of his career.

The museum is home to a large collection of his work, including paintings, drawings and etchings.

We’re gonna stay away from this offering and keep it at arm’s length.

Ugly Dog Champion

Perhaps it was Scooter’s resemblance to a glossy black jelly bean that

“In the cutest way possible, he kind of reminds me of a hairy hippopotamus,” said Catherine Liang, one of the judges in the competition.

In a contest that promotes the adoption of dogs and celebrates imperfection — see the 2022 Chihuahua mix winner with his head askew; the 2019 king, Scamp the Tramp; the 2016 champ, Sweepee Rambo — the judges awarded the top prize this year to a 7-year-old dog that had been counted out for his appearance.

Scooter, a Chinese crested, had been brought by a breeder to animal control in Tucson, Arizona, to be euthanized. But he was ultimately rescued and given a “chance at finding a good home and a fairly normal life,” according to his biography.

“Today Scooter is not only surviving but thriving,” his biography says. “He has no idea that he is any different from any other dog.”

After Scooter was named the champion, his owner, Linda Elmquist, hoisted him high, his belly splotched and wrinkled.

Elmquist had loved him at first sight and felt like she could really help him.

Scooter uses a wheeled cart to move around more easily, but he can also balance and walk with just his two front feet.

“It was a little sad at first to see the condition he was in,” Liang said. “But the more we got to interact with him, we realized how truly adorable and loving that animal is.”

Wheels or no wheels, the crowd at the contest did not care. They clapped for him as he was brought onstage. He wobbled. He winked his dark eyes. He flashed his ever-hanging tongue.

Scooter was, in the estimation of the crowd and the judges, a winner. (© The New York Times)

Torah Thought Dust Yourself Off

By Rabbi Zvi Teichman

Bilaam tells Balak the Jews are impervious to his curses, for “Who has counted the dust of Yaakov, or who can number the seed of Israel”.

Rashi explains the first half of this verse as referring to the ‘countless’ mitzvos that are fulfilled with רפע, ‘dust’: You shall not plow with an ox and a donkey [together]; You shall not sow your field with a mixture of seeds, the ashes of the red cow, the dust used for a woman, a Sotah, suspected of infidelity, and others similar to these.

The second half of the verse alludes to G-d attending to each potential ‘seed’ during copulation, wondering when will the drop of the righteous one come to fruition.

What is so unique about the various mitzvos that revolve around ‘dust’, and are they truly innumerable?

The first and second parts of the verse seem totally unrelated. Why are they matched up?

What relevance is there to these sentiments and our impregnability to Bilaam’s curses?

Rashi’s presentation of the sampling of dust related commandments seems perplexing as he chose not to list them in the order they appear in the Torah.

The order does though seem to follow an intended progression.

The first prohibition of not engaging different species of animals in a joint task, is mentioned in its relationship to the plowing of the soil, the dust of the earth, a םמוד — an inanimate entity.

The second command governs the proper planting of seeds for future growth, חמוצ — flora.

The third refers to the taking of a Red Heifer, a יח — animal life, burning it and turning it to ash, a form of dust.

Finally, the earth that is on the

floor of the Tabernacle that is added to the ‘bitter water’, the suspected adulteress drinks in determining her innocence, impacts on the רבדמ — a speaking human life-form.

The progression of mineral, vegetation, animal, and man embodies the sum-total of all the strata of physical life as we know it.

For you are dust and to dust will you return.

Rebbe Nachman of Breslov teaches that ‘dust’ is the beginning and end of all matter. All organisms being borne from earth and decompose into dust. Dust represents our truthful and absolute essence. It is the only component of our physical entity that is eternal.

Our nation is compared to the stars and to the dust of the earth. When we rise, we ascend to the heavens radiating our brilliance. When we fall, we descend to the lowly earth. This is not our deficiency but rather the secret of our revival. Each time we drop we connect to the essence of unadulterated truth, of life itself, utilizing the regenerating powers of the soil to arise anew, refreshed and more vital than before.

Avraham Avinu famously exclaimed, I am but dust and ash. Dust, soil, is nothing, is silent, is fully submissive, yet miraculously enables the production of fruit. Ash is the evidence of that which formerly had value and purpose now transformed into mere valueless ash.

Avraham stood before G-d attesting to the power of man in humbly placing himself as the agent of G-d in bringing His inspired and enthused presence to the world in the numerous opportunities availed to us in every experience in a very physical world. But after we succeed, we modestly submit we are like worthless ash. Avraham expresses his ultimate humility and

commitment to G-d. (יולה תיב)

Was Avraham belittling his marvelous accomplishments? Perhaps what he was conveying was that there is an endless journey, where yesterday’s benchmark is tomorrow’s soil to be plowed afresh in bringing even more glorious fruit.

The Jewish people, Bilaam realized, are indestructible. They are a nation that after being crushed into dust will transform that state into one of growth.

With this, Rebbe Nachman teaches we can understand the second part of the verse.

G-s is not waiting for that one special seed among the myriad of potential conceptions that will become the Tzaddik, the righteous one. G-d longs for the day when every seed, every child, in its unique journey — whether Rasha or Tzaddik — the power of ‘dust’ will enthuse it to regenerate — despite it having fallen — towards its destined greatness. It may take generations, but ultimately it will come to its glorious fruition.

Bilaam realized his efforts are futile. Who is like this nation that is invested with the power of ‘dust’, not only in the several mitzvos that relate to dust, but in every endeavor and challenge?

Those mitzvos merely reflect on the very character of this nation, prodded on by their Father in Heaven, who patiently waits and longs for their success, never losing hope, never giving up.

We encompass in our mission all aspects of the world from mineral to elevated man.

We continue our mission, despite our failures, knowing that G-d believes in us.

Years ago, a young man who is now married, a father of a beautiful family, and successful in his career, approached me and said he wished to share with me something very personal. What he told me blew me away.

He went on to relate that it was because of me that he is religious today. I was quite astounded as I never realized during that time that he was so challenged to such an extent. Sure, he had created his share of trouble, both in and out of the classroom — which I most certainly did recall — but if someone asked me whether he was in danger of falling off the precipice, I would’ve said, definitely not. I asked him what was it that I did that was so heroic that kept him from opting out. He simply stated that despite his recurrent antics and his fear of being caught and having to face the dire consequences — although I was enraged with his behavior — I never let him feel that he was a failure and kindly and warmly expressed hope he would improve. I was no hero; I simply liked the kid and wrote off his mischief to his natural restlessness. I’m afraid if I knew the extent of the trouble he made, perhaps I might have reacted differently. The lesson in the anecdote, though, is that in the eyes of the ones going through personal challenges, what keeps them buoyant is their knowing they aren’t failures and that they can ‘dust’ themselves off and get back on track to their appropriate destinations.

The Almighty says when observing how we keep the ‘precepts of the dust’ in our lives, brushing ourselves off, never losing hope, He too promises that He will finally call out, ־תה רפעמ ירענ —Shake off the dust, ימוק — Arise, Sit [on your throne], O Jerusalem”. (ב בנ והיעשי)

He raises the needy from the dust, from the trash heaps He lifts the destitute. (ז גיק םילהת)

Speedily in our days.

הבהאב, ןאמכייט הדוהי יבצ

Baltimore Weekday Minyanim Guide

Shacharis Mincha

Neitz Beit Yaakov [Sefaradi] M-F

Ohel Yakov S-F

6:00 AM Shomrei Emunah Congregation M-F

6:10 AM Agudath Israel of Baltimore M, Th

6:15 AM Kol Torah M, TH

Mercaz Torah U'Tefillah M-F

Shearith Israel Congregation M, TH

The Adas: Chofetz Chaim Adas Bnei Israel M, TH

6:20 AM Agudah of Greenspring M, TH

Agudath Israel of Baltimore S, T, W, F

Arugas HaBosem (Rabbi Taub's) S-F

Bnai Jacob Shaarei Zion Congregation M-F

Kehilath B'nai Torah M, TH

Shomrei Emunah Congregation S, M, TH

6:25 AM The Adas: Chofetz Chaim Adas Bnei Israel T, W, F

6:30 AM Agudah of Greenspring T, W, F Chabad of Park Heights M-F

Darchei Tzedek M-F

Kehilath B'nai Torah T, W, F

Khal Bais Nosson M-F

Khal Ahavas Yisroel/ Tzemach Tzedek M-F

Kol Torah T, W, F

Ohr Yisroel M-F

Shearith Israel Congregation T, W, F

Shomrei Emunah Congregation T, W, F

6:35 AM Aish Kodesh (downstairs Minyan) M, TH

Ohel Moshe M, TH

6:40 AM Aish Kodesh (downstairs Minyan) T, W, F Bnai Jacob Shaarei Zion Congregation M, TH

6:45 AM B”H and Mesivta of Baltimore (Dirshu Minyan) S-F

Beth Abraham M, TH

Greenspring Sephardic Synagogue M-F

Mercaz Torah U'Tefillah S-F

Ner Tamid M-F

Ohel Moshe T, W, F

Suburban Orthodox Congregation Toras Chaim M-F

6:50 AM Agudath Israel of Baltimore M, TH

Ahavat Shalom [Sefaradi] M, TH

Bais Medrash of Ranchleigh M, TH

Bnai Jacob Shaarei Zion Congregation T, W, F

Community Kollel Tiferes Moshe Aryeh M, TH

Derech Chaim M-F

Kol Torah M-F

Ohel Moshe S

Ohr Hamizrach [Sefaradi] M, TH

Shomrei Emunah Congregation M, TH

The Shul at the Lubavitch Center M, TH

6:55 AM Beth Abraham T, W, F

Kol Torah M, TH

7:00 AM Aish Kodesh (upstairs Minyan) M-F

Agudath Israel of Baltimore S, T, W, F

Ahavat Shalom [Sefaradi] T, W, F

Arugas HaBosem (Rabbi Taub's) S

Bais Medrash of Ranchleigh T, W, F

Community Kollel Tiferes Moshe Aryeh T, W, F

Greenspring Sephardic Synagogue S

Khal Ahavas Yisroel/ Tzemach Tzedek S

Kol Torah T, W, F

Mercaz Torah U’Tefillah S-F

Moses Montefiore Anshe Emunah S-F

Ohr Hamizrach [Sefaradi] S, T, W, F

Shearith Israel Congregation S, M, TH

Shomrei Emunah Congregation T, W, F

Shomrei Mishmeres Hakodesh M-F

The Shul at the Lubavitch Center T, W, F

Tiferes Yisroel M-F

7:05 AM Machzikei Torah (Sternhill's) M, TH

7:15 AM Kedushas Yisrael S

Kol Torah S

Machzikei Torah (Sternhill's) S, T, W, F

Mercaz Torah U'Tefillah S-F

Ner Israel Rabbinical College S-F

For

7:15 AM Shearith Israel Congregation T, W, F

Shomrei Emunah Congregation S

Suburban Orthodox Congregation Toras Chaim S

The Adas: Chofetz Chaim Adas Bnei Israel S

Tzeirei Anash M-F

7:20 AM Agudath Israel of Baltimore M, TH

Beth Tfiloh Congregation M-F

Kol Torah M-F

Ohr Hamizrach [Sefaradi] M, TH

Shomrei Emunah Congregation M, TH

7:30 AM Agudah of Greenspring S

Agudath Israel of Baltimore S, T, W, F

Ahavat Shalom [Sefaradi] S

Bais Haknesses Ohr HaChaim S-F

Bais Hamedrash and Mesivta of Baltimore S-F

Bais Medrash of Ranchleigh S

Beit Yaakov [Sefaradi] S

Bnai Jacob Shaarei Zion Congregation S

Chabad of Park Heights S

Community Kollel Tiferes Moshe Aryeh S-F

Darchei Tzedek S

Kedushas Yisrael S-F

Khal Bais Nosson S

Ner Israel Rabbinical College (Mechina) S-F

Mercaz Torah U’Tefillah S-F

Ohr Hamizrach [Sefaradi] S, T, W, F

Shomrei Emunah Congregation T, W, F

7:45 AM Bnai Jacob Shaarei Zion Congregation M-F

Talmudical Academy S-F

Darchei Tzedek M-F

Mercaz Torah U'Tefillah S-F

Mesivta Kesser Torah S-F

Mesivta Shaarei Chaim S-F

7:50 AM Derech Chaim S

Ner Tamid S

Ohel Moshe M-F

8:00 AM Agudath Israel of Baltimore S-F

Beth Abraham S

Darchei Tzedek S

Khal Ahavas Yisroel/ Tzemach Tzedek S

Kehillas Meor HaTorah S

Mercaz Torah U’Tefillah S-F

Ohel Yakov S

Ohr Yisroel S

Pikesville Jewish Congregation S

Shearith Israel Congregation S

Shomrei Emunah Congregation S-F

The Shul at the Lubavitch Center S

Tiferes Yisroel S

Tzeirei Anash S

Yeshiva Tiferes Hatorah S-F

8:15 AM Kehilath B'nai Torah S

Kol Torah S

Mercaz Torah U'Tefillah S-F

8:20 AM Bais Haknesses Ohr HaChaim S-F

8:30 AM Agudath Israel of Baltimore S-F

Machzikei Torah (Sternhill's) S-F

Mercaz Torah U’Tefillah S-F

Ohel Moshe S

Ohr Hamizrach [Sefaradi] S

Shomrei Emunah Congregation S-F

Shomrei Mishmeres Hakodesh S

8:45 AM Mercaz Torah U'Tefillah S-F

9:00 AM Aish Kodesh S

Agudath Israel of Baltimore S-F

Bais Haknesses Ohr HaChaim S

Beth Tfiloh Congregation S

Bnai Jacob Shaarei Zion Congregation S

Mercaz Torah U’Tefillah S-F

Shomrei Emunah Congregation S-F

Suburban Orthodox Congregation Toras Chaim S-F

9:15 AM Mercaz Torah U'Tefillah S-F

9:30 AM Mercaz Torah U’Tefillah S-F

9:45 AM Mercaz Torah U'Tefillah S-F

10:00AM Mercaz Torah U’Tefillah S-F

Mincha Gedolah Mercaz Torah U’Tefillah

Khal Ahavas Yisroel/Tzemach Tzedek

1:45 PM Ohel Moshe

1:50 PM Bais Haknesses Ohr HaChaim

Neuberger, Quinn, Gielen, Rubin & Gibber

Wealcatch Insurance

2:00 PM Agudath Israel of Baltimore

Big Al @ The Knish Shop Party Room

Kol Torah Market Maven

Reischer Minyan 15 Walker Ave 2nd Floor

2:30 PM Bais Medrash of Ranchleigh

Ner Israel Rabbinical College

Tov Pizza Mincha Minyan

Community Kollel Tiferes Moshe Aryeh

Mesivta Shaarei Chaim (Etz Chaim Building)

Shearith Israel Congregation

3:00 PM Agudath Israel of Baltimore

Bais Haknesses Ohr HaChaim

Mercaz Torah U'Tefillah

3:05 PM Kedushas Yisrael

3:15 PM Hat Box

4:00 PM Agudath Israel of Baltimore

Mercaz Torah U'Tefillah

5:00 PM Agudath Israel of Baltimore

Mercaz Torah U'Tefillah

5:30 PM Agudath Israel of Baltimore

6:00 PM Kedushas Yisrael

Agudath Israel of Baltimore

Mercaz Torah U'Tefillah

7:00 PM Mercaz Torah U’Tefillah

8:00 PM Mercaz Torah U’Tefillah

14 Min Before ShkiAh Kol Torah

Mincha/Maariv Before Shkiah

Aish Kodesh

Agudath Israel of Baltimore

Agudah of Greenspring

Bais Haknesses Ohr HaChaim

Beth Abraham

Bnai Jacob Shaarei Zion Congregation

Darchei Tzedek

Kehillas Meor HaTorah

Kehilath B’nai Torah

Khal Ahavas Yisroel/ Tzemach Tzedek

Machzikei Torah (Sternhill’s)

Mercaz Torah U’Tefillah

Ner Tamid

Ohel Moshe

Ohr Hamizrach [Sefaradi]

Ohr Yisroel

Pikesville Jewish Congregation

Shearith Israel Congregation

Shomrei Emunah Congregation

Shomrei Mishmeres

Suburban Orthodox Congregation Toras Chaim

The Adas: Chofetz Chaim Adas Bnei Israel

The Shul at the Lubavitch Center

Tiferes Yisroel

Maariv

8:30 PM Agudath Israel of Baltimore

Mercaz Torah U’Tefillah

8:45 PM Darchei Tzedek

Ner Israel Rabbinical College (Mechina)

Ohr Yisroel

8:50 PM Mesivta Shaarei Chaim (Etz Chaim Building)

8:55 PM Community Kollel Tiferes Moshe Aryeh

9:00 PM Agudath Israel of Baltimore

Arugas Habosem

Mercaz Torah U'Tefillah

Shomrei Emunah Congregation

Suburban Orthodox Congregation Toras Chaim

9:20 PM Kol Torah

9:30 PM Agudah of Greenspring

Agudath Israel of Baltimore

Kedushas Yisrael

Mercaz Torah U'Tefillah

9:40 PM Ahavat Shalom [Sefaradi]

9:45 PM Bais Haknesses Ohr HaChaim

Kollel Erev Birchas Yitzchok (Luries)

Machzikei Torah (Sternhill's)

Ohr Hamizrach [Sefaradi]

Yeshiva Tiferes Hatorah

9:50 PM Aish Kodesh

Community Kollel Tiferes Moshe Aryeh

Ohel Moshe

10:00 PM Agudath Israel of Baltimore

Darchei Tzedek

Kehilath B'nai Torah

Khal Ahavas Yisroel/ Tzemach Tzedek

Mercaz Torah U'Tefillah

Shearith Israel Congregation

Shomrei Emunah Congregation

10:05 PM Kol Torah

10:10 PM Ner Israel Rabbinical College

10:15 PM Derech Chaim

Khal Bais Nosson

10:30 PM Agudath Israel of Baltimore

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Travel

“Never a Reason to Take Off Your Socks”

A Flight Attendant’s Etiquette Rules

By Kristie Koerbel

After 21 years as a flight attendant, I’ve seen it all. The pandemic heightened tensions on board, with the most extreme incidents of bad passenger behavior escalating to violence. More commonly, though, I see discourteous behavior lead to verbal disagreements or general unpleasantness.

As we enter the busy summer season, it’s worth discussing some of the common courtesies that could make flying, dare I say, pleasant.

Here are my airline etiquette rules, which aim to strike a balance between your own reasonable comforts and thoughtfulness toward those around you. Everyone has the right to recline — but there’s a polite way to do it.

The wrong way is slamming back the seat as hard and fast as you can. That has broken laptops, spilled drinks and caused fistfights that have caused flights to be diverted. Be aware of your surroundings. Before reclining, peek behind you and see what the situation is, and nicely ask if that person minds.

Clean up after your kids.

We are not maids. Flight attendants do not have access to vacuums, brooms or cleaning supplies that go beyond hand soap, wet wipes and air freshener. You are not required to clean up, but it’s courteous. There are knock-on effects, too: Messes in the aisle can be a safety hazard, and a big cleaning job can even delay the next flight. Proactive thinking helps. Can a small child handle a large bag of snacks? If not, put the snacks in a smaller, more manageable container ahead of time. The overhead bins aren’t your personal Tetris game.

The bins are first-come, first-serve in economy class. You don’t own the spot directly above your seat, and it’s not acceptable to take out someone else’s bag to make yours fit. Sliding bags to maximize

space is fine, but save the complex puzzle-solving for the flight attendant. And remember, small bags belong at your feet, leaving room for large bags in the overhead bins.

No one wants to hear your FaceTime conversation.

We don’t need to hear both sides of that conversation; plus, boarding an airplane is not the time for your goodbyes. It’s time for you to concentrate on finding your seat and stowing your bags as fast as possible so the people behind you can do the same thing. While we are on the topic, no one wants to hear your movies, video games or TikToks, so bring headphones. Even for children.

The middle seat gets both armrests.

It’s the consolation prize for being squished between two people with nowhere to lean. Case closed. Headphones are a perfectly acceptable conversation ender.

Overly chatty seatmate? Headphones are a great way to keep from being the sounding board for your neighbor who can’t take a hint. It’s my go-to move: After

a long day of being a flight attendant, my noise-canceling headphones are my haven. I want peace on my commute home. Keep your socks on.

If it’s a long flight, by all means relax and take off your shoes, but there is never a reason to take off your socks. Foot smell is inescapable. Also, keep your feet to yourself. It is not acceptable to rest your feet on the armrest of the person in front. And I highly recommend putting your footwear back on to use the lavatory. Use the call button wisely.

If you need something — a coffee refill, assistance with a medical issue or help with a disruptive passenger — please use it. It is preferable to poking or tapping the flight attendant, which is not OK. Before you press it, though, make sure we aren’t already in the aisle with a beverage cart or a trash bag; that means we’re already coming! If you are having a true emergency, please hit it several times so we know it’s important.

Don’t discipline other people’s kids.

Nothing makes a flight more miserable than the back of your seat becom-

ing a punching bag. However, if a child behind you is being disruptive, address the parents. You don’t have the right to yell at someone else’s child. A nice way to approach this is to ask the parents calmly, and with a smile, if they realize their child is kicking your seat. Then say it’s bothersome; is there any way you can you make the child stop? This way you are not accusing in your tone and are asking instead of being bossy.

Deal with your seating issues before you get on the plane.

If your family is split up on the flight, the chaotic rush of boarding is not when flight attendants can solve it for you. The gate agents have access to the seating chart and family reservations, so please ask them first if it is possible to change your seats. Some airlines even have a policy that families with children under 13 must sit together, so the gate agent is the best place. Or even better: Call the airline before coming to the airport. You don’t have to switch seats if someone asks you.

I’m going to be unpopular here. No, you do not have to switch with someone who asks you. If you have paid extra for your seat, or even if it is just an inconvenience, you can kindly say no. If it is advantageous, like trading a middle seat for a window seat, or you are happy to help, please go ahead and swap.

Flush. Please.

This should be common sense, but somehow it isn’t. I deal with this all day, every day. I do not want to flush your deposit, and neither does the passenger after you. If you can’t find the button, please look for it. I guarantee it’s there. On every airplane.

This article originally appeared in The New York Times

Mental

The Right Word

By Rabbi Azriel Hauptman

Human beings communicate in many ways, of which verbal communication plays an integral role. Therefore, using the right word makes the difference between coherent and confusing communication. Even our internal communication is based on words, and if we do not have the right word for a concept then we lack the ability to connect with that concept and comprehend it. In this article, we will focus on a few word pairs that relate to emotions that are often conflated into one broad concept even though they are expressing two very different emotions. Hopefully, this will contribute to our emotional intelligence.

Guilt and Shame

Guilt is an acknowledgment of one’s responsibility for a wrongdoing. Consequently, when one feels guilty, there is a deep sense of remorse, but

the remorse is focused on the action. Shame, on the other hand, refers to the person and not to the action. When one feels shame, one is saying that because I did this action, therefore I am a bad person. When one feels guilty, one feels bad for what he did, but is not saying that therefore he is a bad person. Guilt can often be a positive emotion, as it encourages a person to make amends and to correct his ways. Shame, one the other hand, can sometimes be a debilitating emotion as it can spiral into a deep depression.

Happiness and Joy

Happiness is a very broad term and can be applied even to a short-lived experience. Joy, on the other hand, tends to be limited to a longer lasting and more internal feeling. Therefore, it would be appropriate to say that I am happy that I found a parking spot, but it would not be appropriate to say that it brings me joy. Howev-

er, if you have something in your life that provides a deep sense of purpose and meaning, then one can say that it brings you joy. Pursuit of happiness might be a pointless endeavor as its goal is something fleeting and ephemeral. Pursuit of joy is life itself. When we conduct our lives in a way that provides ourselves with a deep sense of purpose and meaning, then we are pursuing joy, which is an emotion that can stick with us and fundamentally improve our lives.

Depression and Sadness

Sadness is an emotion. Emotionally healthy people feel a broad range of emotions based on life’s circumstances, and sadness is one of those emotions. Depression is a disorder of one’s mood. When one is suffering from depression, one’s entire emotional being is pushed down to the ground, and as a result many other symptoms emerge, such as changes in sleeping and eating, irritability, distorted thoughts, a sense of doom and gloom, and sometimes sadness as well. More often than not, a depressed person’s emotions are too flat to feel genuine sadness. Sadness is a normal part of life and can be a health emotion. Depression, however, is a form of mental illness.

Anxiety and Fear

Anxiety and fear do overlap, but in the world of mental health we use the term fear as referring to what one feels when there is an accurate appraisal of an imminent danger. Anxiety is when one is prematurely anticipating a potential future threat that is presently

irrelevant, or when one has an inaccurate sense of danger and is acting afraid despite the lack of any real danger. When anxiety causes stress and interferes with daily functioning it is classified as a mental health disorder.

Anger and Rage

Anger is an emotion, whereas rage is when one acts out the anger. We are not perfect, and it is quite normal to feel angry when one is the victim of an injustice or some other life circumstance. But what one does with that emotion determines if it leads to rage or not. One can acknowledge the feelings of anger and process it without acting out against another person, or a person can allow himself to go into a rage and act out verbally or even physically against another person. Once someone descends into a fit of rage it is very hard to exert self-control over one’s actions. There is a famous adage that a problem well-stated is half solved. When we fully understand the nature of emotions, our ability to master them becomes exponentially easier. Part of that process is to master the vocabulary of emotions. Hopefully, this article will make a small contribution towards that goal.

This is a service of Relief Resources. Relief is an organization that provides mental health referrals, education, and support to the frum community. Rabbi Yisrael Slansky is director of the Baltimore branch of Relief. He can be contacted at 410-448-8356 or at yslansky@ reliefhelp.org

THE BJH PRESENTS: A BOOST OF “INSPIRATION”

A Snippet From Judaism’s Number One Podcast

THE BJH PRESENTS... A BOOST OF “INSPIRATION”

My Wife & Two Daughters Were Murdered, I Choose Hope: Rabbi Leo Dee ELI PALEY CEO OF MISHPACHA

OIn our interconnected world, the power of the media cannot be overestimated. Internet websites, social media, radio, newspapers, and magazines increasingly control the fate of politicians and governments, world finances and morality. In the chareidi world, the messages conveyed by religious media can shape and strengthen emuna, enrich charitable efforts, and ferment new shul and yeshiva policies. Therefore, it was a great privilege to interview the highly influential Rabbi Eli Paley, owner of Mishpacha Media Group and publisher of the Mishpacha Hebrew and English weekly magazines.

n April 7th, 2023, Rabbi Leo Dee’s wife, Lucy, and two daughters, Maia and Rina, were ambushed and murdered by Palestinian terrorists in the West Bank. The murders of Rabbi Dee’s family were a horrific tragedy.

Rabbi Dee has spoken out about the importance of forgiveness and peace in the wake of the murders. He has also founded a foundation in his family’s name to promote peace and understanding between Israelis and Palestinians. The murders of Rabbi Dee’s family have left a deep hole in the lives of Rabbi Dee and his family, and they have also had a profound impact on the world.

Eli Paley is a businessman and social activist. He is chairman of the Paley Family Foundation which supports and promotes Torah Centers and social initiatives in the Charedi community. A member of the Jewish Funders Network, he is active in several philanthropic organizations.

We discussed the Mishpacha’s origin, the challenges he is faced with policy decision making, and the overall goals he hopes to attain through the publication.

went to Oxford while he was at Cambridge and finished there in 1994. At age 32, after being promoted to director of a private equity company he decided to go to Israel and become a Rabbi. He studied in Israel for 4 years then went back to England for 6 and then came back to Israel. Since then he’s had about 20 jobs in the last 30 years and everything he’s done has been useful in some way or another.

Eli was born in in the Mattesdorff neighborhood in Yerushalayim. His great-grandfather and grandfather arrived in Eretz Yisroel in 1925 to establish the Slabodka Yeshivah in Chevron. Later his grandfather became the assistant to Rabbi Herzel, the chief rabbi of Israel.

Eli himself is an alumni of Chevron yeshiva. When he married his wife, a graduate of Michlala in Bayit Vegan, his dream was to continue learning. However, a few months after his marriage, his brother mentioned a new monthly publication called Mishpacha was looking for someone to work as a distributor in Yerushalayim for a day and a half once every 5 to 6 weeks. With flex hours like that, Eli took the job, earning twice as much as he would be for an entire month in a kolel. Financially independent, he continued to learn diligently.

Rabbi Dee’s strength, courage, and determination in the face of tragedy are truly an inspiration to us all.

Rabbi Dee grew up in a conservative family and gradually became more religious. He attended a traditional British public school and his first introduction to orthodoxy was from a Rabbi who came with a violin to do Jewish assemblies in a Catholic school with a quota of 10% Jews. His maternal grandfather came to Israel in the 1930s to be the translator to one of the signatories to the Bill of Independence in 1948. He left Palestine in 1939 to go back to England where he got married and remained.

pain and that is achdut, unity.

Rabbi Dee was asked about Dee’s Day. He could not say why he started Dee’s Day and why he asked people to send flags, but what it proved is that the Jewish people are the “World Wide Web of good in the world”. Each of us is a node in that network, and if somebody has a good idea, they can pass it across the whole network and good ideas can be spread

While American Jews may have difficulty in relating to the issues overseas, Eli, as a born and bred Israeli is certainly in touch with the masses. He recalls the issue he faced during his kolel years when distributing the magazine. The government regulation forbid a yingeman from receiving Kollel benefits if he had any other source of income. Therefore, he was forced to register his side job under his wife’s name, a desperate solution used by many. In his publication, he attempts to broker a better solution.

viral. It is a tremendous comfort for his children to see people living because of their mother and to feel that a small part of their mother is still alive. When Rabbi Dee met the Arab Muslim Israeli recipient of one of Lucy’s kidneys, he gave Rabbi Dee a plate with a quote from Mishna in Sanhedrin, “Therefore man was created alone in the world to teach that anyone who takes one life is as if they destroyed the whole world and anyone who saves one life it’s as if they saved the whole world.” He discovered this is also a direct quote from the Quran.

The topic of poverty among Charedim and the poor economic situation in the Israeli community lay heavily on Eli’s heart. As part of the solution, Eli started the Charedi Institute of Public Affairs to engage with the government with hopes to resolve this in a way that will allow the Charedi society to retain its Torah values.

Another example of difficulties that Israeli chareidim face is the draft. Mishpacha discussed population statistics -- one out of four children is Charedi– and how the army and Charedi society can possibly reach a solution.

His father, Rabbi Yehuda Paley, bought the Mishpacha Magazine business. To help his father, Eli got involved in the editorial angle of the magazine figuring out how it could make a unique contribution to the field of journalism. He left learning to pursue his new mission to inspire and influence the Chareidi community. It is that idealism that still drives him in his work so many years later.

While Mishpacha is well-received around the world, the goal of Mishpacha is to serve, elevate and be the voice of the Chareidim, particularly in Eretz Yisroel. The real customers are not the advertisers but the audience. Mishpacha seeks to portray an independent voice which is unaffiliated with any political party. In the early years, in the chareidi world of pollicization, this was perceived as a weakness. However, the years have passed, and this freedom has become one of the most salient factors of its success.

On the 7th of April, the first day of Chol Hamoed Pesach, after a wonderful seder, tragedy struck when his wife Lucy, and two daughters, Maia and Rina, were brutally murdered by terrorists while driving to Tiberius. His daughters were instantly killed and his wife was taken to Ein Kerem Hospital where the bullets were removed from her body but two days later she also succumbed to her injuries.

Mishpacha was the first Charedi publication to give the same respect to the Sephardi and Ashkenazi societies, attempting to create a sense of unity. Over time, this adherence to equality and ahavas Yisrael became the secret to the business’ success.

Mishpacha’s quest in elevating frum society is done through sincere, honest writing. Mishpacha does not engage in pretending that society is perfect. While recognizing the great achievements and accomplishments in the frum world, Mishpacha will tackle even unpleasant issues, albeit in an extremely sensitive way.

His father’s grandfather Bezalel Dwolaitsky (later became Dee) was very wealthy. He came to Palestine in the 1930s and set up a chocolate factory in Ramat Gan which he sold to Elite in the 1960s.

Rabbi Dee’s wife, Lucy, went to a private school after which she

Rabbi Dee explains that for 10 years he listened to shiurim on Emunah and he learned that if a person can look at the good and not the bad that is Emunah. With the current trauma his thoughts were, you have to get through it, you have to survive it and you have to move forward.

The tragedy brought Jews around the world together. The Jewish people have one soul, when one Jew is hurt other Jews feel the

The paper is faced daily with Hashkafa decisions that have far-reaching effects on our society. The issue of printing pictures of women in the magazine has been debated back and forth in many forums. When Hilary Clinton was running for President, Mishpacha shocked many readers by publishing a blurry photo of Donald Trump and Hilary on the cover. “We just wanted to see how people would react,” Eli confides.

Rabbi Dee’s advice for someone who has gone through a tragedy is to look at the good and not the bad, that is Emunah. Emunah is a muscle that needs to be exercised so you can use it when things go bad. If you don’t exercise it then you don’t have the skills and the ability to cope when you need it.

The office did receive some complaints, but the Gedolim the magazine consults advised them to include her since there was a real possibility Hilary would indeed become president. However, in Israel, an anti-Mishacha publication blasted Mishpacha , claiming they were breaking the rules of modesty and Torah by publishing a picture of Hilary Clinton.

This became a real issue because it was very hard for Eli to justify in his mind why they could not print modest pictures of women, particularly considering how hard it seems to be to explain to ba’alei teshuvah why women are “ignored.” In order to make Mishpacha, often one of their first exposures to Yiddishkeit, more palatable, Eli is comfortable with his decision.

across the whole network of Jews across the whole world. That is what Rabbi Dee did and what happened was more than he expected. Every Jew in the network became aware that Jewish unity is stronger than ever. People around the world are doing amazing projects in his family’s memory that are changing the world. His greatest comfort is knowing that this network of good is being used for the benefit of all mankind and inspiring people to change their lives and the lives of others for good.

He’s on a big mission: to expose our brothers to true Torah values, and he bears the responsibility seriously. He often employs a different way of thinking, a creative model, a stretch and a twist, that can support our lifestyle while at the same time show that we care about the Israeli economy, security, and its welfare system. “Instead of just complaining about why we are not understood,” Eli explained during the interview, “we must ask what we can do in this field. While we have to make sure that our kids are not too exposed to the big world, the (outside) world exists, and we have to face reality and come up with practical solutions. “

Lucy’s organs were donated and 5-7 lives were saved. Rabbi Dee went to Beilinson Hospital and met the recipient of Lucy’s heart and discovered that her name is Rina Lital while the mother of the 25-year-old boy who received Lucy’s liver is Maia. The photograph of his daughter Keren listening to Lucy’s heart in Lital’s body went

Rabbi Dee spoke about Shimon Craimer’s song dedicated to Lucy, Maia, and Rina, “Kadosh, kadosh, kadosh, Hashem Tzvaot, maleh kol ha’aretz kvodo”, Holy Holy Holy is G-d may the whole world be full of His glory. The three “Holies” are Lucy, Rina, and Maia, three beautiful people he lost and who the world is now mourning and because of them, the whole world will know about G-d’s glory. Watching the video of the song moves him to tears of pain which turn into tears of hope that the song will become an anthem of hope in times of tragedy.

Rather than hiding his head in the sand, he is ready to take on the problems in our neighbourhoods and cities, working with the authorities instead of against them. Slowly, he believes, we will be able to build better trust.

Eli is proud that Mishpacha does not try to be sensationalist. Rather he makes an effort to keep his editorial policies responsible and sensitive. “If you’re going to do it le’shaim shamayim” Eli ended, “you’ll have disyata d’shmaya to do it right.”

“Exercise the Emunah muscle so you can use it when things go bad.”

Tech Triumphs

Music to my Ears By Rebbetzin Sara Gross

Ican’t be without my music. This was the phrase that ran through my head every time I considered getting rid of my smartphone. I loved my Spotify and used it every day in my house, car and work. Then I felt myself getting out of control. I needed my phone at all times, and I couldn’t be without it for any amount of time. I knew it was time for me to get rid of it, but I couldn’t imagine being without my music.

I decided to give it a try and get a flip phone with no internet connection and keep my smartphone as a computer in the evenings. This plan worked, but I did not have access to my music during the day. I decided to invest

in USBs from the Judaica store of my favorite singers. Yes, it cost me money, but I also gained control of my life. The realization that I didn’t need to have every single song in the world at any given moment was a revelation for me. It was okay for me to have a few of my favorite singers and rotate their songs in the car and house, just like the “olden days”. Now, I also have some peace of mind without constant noise. I don’t always need music to feel alive. Strangely, I feel free of both my constant attachment to my phone and to my music. Though I received an unexpected bonus of double freedom, I still feel some loss from time to time, then I remind myself how much I gained

and I persevere.

DID YOU KNOW?

Many camp leaders have reported that a certain component of sleep away camp (and even day camps) have been lost because kids bring cellphones and various devices to camp. Kids are now more connected to city life during

camp, more distractible, and less inclined to make healthy new relationships when they can more easily stay just connected with their “old friends”.

To share a tech triumph or story of chizuk, please email Techtriumphs@tagbaltimore.org.

This is a service of TAG Baltimore. TAG Baltimore is an organization that provides technology awareness, education, and support. They can be reached at 410-449-1824 or help@tagbaltimore.org.

Creating Warm, Loving Relationships with Our Teens

Rebbetzin Shifra Fried Talks about the Powerful Connection between Parents and their Children

By Malkie

“If I had to sum up my message to moms of teens,” Rebbetzin Shifra Fried, Dina Friedman certified life mastery coach and teen parenting expert in Brooklyn, maintains, “it would be: you must first take care of yourself, love yourself, believe yourself worthy before you can hope to help your teen believe in himself.”

She adds, “I also believe that having a loving and warm relationship with your teen isn’t just about trying to fix their problems. It’s about being fully present and engaging with them with all your attention.”

Of course, this is very difficult if you have a job and/ or a house full of other needy children. But nobody said parenting was easy and nobody in their right mind ever said parenting teens was effortless.

Shifra’s unique coaching approach has been largely shaped by her experiences as both a mother and a shul rebbetzin for nearly thirty years. Having experienced the complexities and difficulties firsthand as a mother of teenagers herself, Shifra embarked on this coaching path not only with her book knowledge and certifications but armed with valuable insights and tools gained through her own personal growth journey.

This dual perspective, she affirms, has given her a broader understanding of how to deal with different types of people. It has honed her speaking and teaching skills, enabling her to pursue her goal as an effective coach to her clients.

“My aim is to empower mothers to be the best moms they can be to their teens. Through hands on workshops and individual coaching, I support and validate them as they go through this part of their life journey.”

A Holistic Approach

“It’s not so much about what medicine should you take to alleviate your symptoms, or what exact words should you use when you talk to your child, but more about how to see yourself as a tzelem Elokim (image of G-d) and then from there be able to see your child as a tzelem Elokim. That’s where it starts,” Shifra says. “When you as the mother can value yourself, only then can you understand who your child is. If you know in

your bones how worthy you are, then you can move forward in an empowering way and become your child’s best advocate.

“When I talk about self-care,” Shifra shares, “many moms get nervous. They feel they’re being selfish and indulgent if they do anything for their sole enjoyment. Unfortunately, the martyr mom after all these years is still held in the greatest esteem.”

Shifra shares the time she happened to meet the mother of one of her clients. The mom said to her, “Isn’t my daughter amazing? She works full-time. She even

comes at the expense of the mother’s equanimity then it’s a disaster that is actually happening all around us,” maintains Shifra. Which is why Shifra frequently organizes women’s serenity retreats to give the women a chance to indulge herself just for herself, not for anybody else. Of course, the ripple effect is inevitable. A happy, refreshed mom is a happy, refreshed family.

Another aspect of her holistic approach is getting parents to realize the profound influence they have on their children, especially their teens.

“We’re all used to hearing that, during the teen years, the child rejects the parents and is only interested in what their peers have to say. But that’s not true,” asserts Shifra. “Studies show that teens value their parents’ input more than their friends’. Sure, friends have more influence when it comes to hairstyles and fashion but, according to Dr. Gary Chapman, author of The Five Love Languages, parents play a pivotal role in shaping their children’s values, character, and overall development.”

works on Sundays.” Shifra confides that she said nothing to the mom, but she shares with me what she really wanted to say – Actually, Mrs. Goldstein, that’s awful! Besides her job, your daughter has a large family. She needs to cut back, not to work more hours!

It’s a difficult mindset to break, especially in some communities, where women have been raised to be, not only the bearer of larger families, but sometimes the breadwinner of the family as well. Orthodox girls are being raised on the concept of the selfless mother there to serve everybody else.

“While all this is beautiful and meritorious, if it

And that’s the good news. Because we live in a crazy world where there are no values. In the past, the average American citizen could tell you what’s wrong and what’s right. Today, no one’s allowed to make any value judgements on morality issues. This is a huge challenge for parents to deal with. Even though the Torah world has a strong moral code, we no longer live in an insulated environment. A parent’s strong ethical stance is vital to today’s teen. Not that they should ram their beliefs down the child’s throat. The healthy way to transmit values is by maintaining a strong bond with their teen, letting him or her know that there is an open-door policy in their house, that no topic is off bounds or too shameful to talk about.

The Coaching Process

“Depending on what the specific issue is (and whether it’s about parenting her teen or parenting herself),” shares Shifra, “there are different coaching processes I use to help my clients.”

These processes are logical, step-by-step progressions to the solution and that is their beauty and why they are so effective. One process, for example, is called

SchulMan

“Studies show that teens value their parents’ input more than their friends’.”

the Empowering Metaphor Process. “I will use it when my client feels weakness in a particular area.” The idea is to empower the individual to perform at her peak. The means to her empowerment is through delineating the client’s starting point and her desired ending point through the use of metaphors. “First, I tell the client to create a metaphor that describes the way she sees herself now, then create a metaphor that describes the way she’d like to see herself. Once she has the metaphors in mind, we begin the process of trying to shed the old one and internalize the new one. Once the client sees themselves as the new metaphor in a real way, she will begin to act like that in her life.”

For example, a client comes in with enmeshment issues between her and her teen daughter.

Shifra will begin the session by asking her client to describe her present experience with her daughter.

“My daughter is clingy and enmeshed.”

What are the thoughts holding you back?

“I feel bad for her. I feel I have to save her.”

What feelings come up with the thoughts?

“Pity.”

What feelings come up when you see your clingy enmeshed daughter?

“I feel drained.”

Again, what thoughts are holding you back?

“She can’t manage on her own; who’ll be there for her if I’m not?”

At this step, Shifra will ask her client to create a mental image of what her enmeshed daughter looks like and what she, the mom, looks like.

“She’s a leech, not detaching. I see the mother depleted and exhausted.”

What do you want?

“I want to be there for her but with boundaries.”

What image represents being there with boundaries?

“A shoreline, because though the water constantly comes to the shore, it always stops and recedes.”

Be in that image and imagine what that looks like. What would happen if you were to merge with the empowering metaphor you chose – you would be that shoreline – what would that look like? Sit in it. Imagine waves coming towards you, maybe they go a little over the line but then watch them retreat. Then they come back, but then they retreat. You’re there for your child, but at a certain point, you retreat. She understands that you don’t have to be there all the time. She knows you’ll be back, even when you’re not there now.

After that, Shifra will walk the mom through her day with her child. Where do you see her leech-like behavior the most?

“Bedtime.”

How will you react now that you’re a shoreline, meaning you’re there as a constant but do retreat at times?

Inevitably, the mother will see that she does have the strength to say something like, “I’m leaving the room now. Turn off the lights at ten.” Not only is this healthy for the mother but it’s wonderful for the child as well because she witnesses her mother’s predictability. She experiences a calmer mother which makes her feel calmer. She also sees her mom trusts her and that she can’t manipulate her, which is, believe it or not, what all kids really want.

At the end of the process, Shifra will review with her

client the mental image of her as a shoreline and reaffirm how living that metaphor will allow her daughter to develop independence, resilience, and a sense of personal responsibility.

Other coaching processes include somatic work, such as body scanning. The client scans her body and identifies where she’s feeling physical discomfort. Since physical pain is almost always a manifestation of emotional pain, Shifra will use the physical pain as a starting point to move her client forward emotionally.

Shifra recalls a mother who struggled with deep-rooted shame and feelings of inadequacy in relation to her two at-risk sons. She blamed herself for their issues and could not get past it. She also had intense headaches.

“Through body scanning and other somatic work, we worked extensively on addressing these core issues and reframing her self-worth,” shares Shifra. Through the process, Shifra’s client was able to confront and heal her inner wounds which, in turn, enabled her to separate her self-worth from her children’s actions. Her headaches were also subsequently greatly reduced.

In her coaching practice, Shifra often meets mothers who express feelings of guilt and a belief that they are solely responsible for their child’s happiness. In one particular case, a mother shared her concerns about her daughter’s difficulty in making friends in school. Her daughter said the girls in her class were snobby and not on her wavelength. The mother felt it was her responsibility as the mom to make sure her daughter had friends.

During their work together, Shifra discovered that her client was holding a lot of emotion regarding her own childhood incident of being bullied and no friends coming to her defense. Using a process called the Emotional Journey (created by leading authority on emotional healing and life transformation Brandon Bays, author of The Journey), Shifra helped her client identify the distressing emotions surrounding this childhood event. After identifying her emotions and then releasing them one by one, her client was able to come to a place of peace. Only at that point could she now begin to do the work of being there for her child in a productive way.

Summer is a Comin’

Specific challenges that come up during the summer months between parents and teenagers such as immodest dressing, excessive free time, and peer influence can create tension and anxiety within the family dynamic.

“Last summer, a client reported that her 12-year-old pre-teen daughter was pulling up her skirt and rolling up her sleeves,” says Shifra. “The mother said she spent a lot of time discussing the laws of modesty with her child. I spent a lot of time with the mother discussing why talking about the laws of modesty is not the way to go.”

A child who behaves so differently from her family, Shifra explains, is screaming for help. She knows the laws of tzinius. No one has to spend more time explaining them. She’s already aware that

dressing immodestly is not acceptable in her family or her community.

The first thing parents need to do, advises Shifra, is step back and see their child as the tzelem Elokim she is. It may be peer pressure, it may be the world outside that’s causing her to act this way, it may be a reaction to tensions at home. The bottom line is she’s behaving this way because she’s in pain – not because she wants to be “bad.” When you look at her essence, explains Shifra, it’s a whole different ballgame. You’re not lecturing her; you’re saying, “I love you and I care about you. I see something is bothering you. How can I help you?”

Approaching the child this way is the appropriate way, believes Shifra, but not necessarily the way that will guarantee an overnight change in the teen’s behavior. In fact, the child may not change at all. And that brings us to the very important next step – accepting our teens for who they are right now even if it’s not where we want them to be.

Parents must understand, and this is so fundamental, stresses Shifra, that their children have their own life journeys. We cannot control that. Every soul comes down to this world to fulfill its life’s mission. We have no idea what that mission is and have no control over whether they fulfill or don’t fulfill it. Mothers and fathers and every individual on this planet are here to work on themselves, not on anybody else, even their children.

“If we understand this,” continues Shifra, “we’ll understand that how our kids turn out is not our fault. The way they are right now is not our fault. All we can do and what we are here to do is support them on their journey.”

In addition to addressing specific challenges, Shifra offers general parenting tips and strategies to help mothers build strong and meaningful relationships with their children. One crucial aspect is the need for parents to prioritize quality time with their children and minimize distractions, particularly regarding the excessive use of technology.

Shifra recalls a particular incident where she witnessed a young mother en -

grossed in her phone while at the pool with her five-year-old. The mom was rushing her son along, snapping at him to move quickly otherwise he’d miss his swimming lesson. A moment later, her phone buzzed.

“The transformation was immediate. And disturbing,” shares Shifra. “One minute, the mom was berating her son for crawling like a snail, and the next minute she was laughing at some image on her screen.”

Parents need to put away their phones. They need to show their kids that they are more important than whoever it is trying to reach them on their cell.

“Especially with their teens and especially if they’re used to seeing their parent with the phone instead of them,” she says. “It’s a good idea, as they’re putting away their phone, to actually verbalize, ‘I love you so much that I want to spend time with you, not with my phone.’”

Her job as coach is to empower mothers so Shifra tries to lay low on the guilt but sometimes, she can’t help but point out to moms: Remember what your children see you doing now they will one day do with their own children.

Another example discussed during workshops is the challenge of managing a teenager’s free time. Often, mothers feel overwhelmed and frustrated by their teenagers spending excessive time on social media or engaging in unproductive activities, particularly during the summer when there’s little structure. They react by imposing strict restrictions or lecturing their teenagers on the importance of not hanging around with the wrong crowd.

Teenagers often use social media as a means of connection and self-expression, explains Shifra. They also may be bored. Instead of immediately resorting to restrictive measures, Shifra suggests that mothers engage in open conversations with their teenagers to understand their interests, hobbies, and aspirations. By showing genuine interest, mothers can help their teenagers find

productive and fulfilling activities to engage in during their free time.

Peer influence is another common issue. Moms will express concern about their teenagers’ choice of friends or the negative impact of peer pressure on their behavior. Some parents react by isolating their teenagers or attempting to control their social interactions. But parents have to understand that peer influence is normal for teenagers. It’s how they feel a sense of belonging and is important for their development.

Of course, it’s also normal to be concerned when you see them hanging out with the “wrong” crowd. But again, shares Shifra, the way to deal with it is never with lectures but always with first stepping back and seeing them as beings of infinite G-dly value. Then you can sit down with them and try to get a feel for what’s going on, why they feel the need to hang out with these types of friends.

“Another suggestion is,” Shifra advises, “instead of immediately labeling the teenager’s friends as negative influences, take the time to get to know them. Maybe they’re really nice kids!”

children. Someone asked him what to do when a young teen, for instance, sleeps late and doesn’t go to minyan.

“Never force him or nag him,” Rav Gershon, zt”l, said. “Children need encouragement. Forcing causes the opposite. Forced chinuch is backwards chinuch. Chinuch should always be friendly and loving. Criticism hurts them tremendously and it causes the child to rebel.” The foundation and rule in chinuch, Rav Gershon concluded, is that a child should never feel criticized.

Only through affection, attention and affirmation do we show teens they have value. “Especially when they mess up,” Shifra notes, “make sure you tell them you love them. Go out of the way to say I love you even though you may have to give consequences. Kids beat themselves up enough. They know when they’re doing something wrong, a parent harping on it is unproductive.”

That’s why the Shabbos table should be a place of joy and harmony, not a place of restriction and rules. If a child wants to leave his seat, let him. If the teen goes off to the couch to read, keep your mouth shut, advises Shifra.

“We want them to look back with fondness at their Shabbos experiences. The more we lay off the guilt, the better chance we have. We never want to (over)hear our child saying that the Shabbos table was tense or boring. ‘Dad only talked to Mom, never to the kids, except to scream at us to stop fighting.’

“The importance of creating a happy home environment in general can’t be overstated,” says Shifra. Children are highly attuned to the energy and emotional atmosphere in their surroundings. Unfortunately, parents are not always on the same page. But just like parents aren’t responsible to change their child, one spouse isn’t responsible to change their partner.” (It’s also beyond the scope of this article to discuss marital issues.)

“In the case where the parents aren’t on the same page vis-a-vis dealing with their teens, aside from getting professional help, I’d seriously suggest prayer (which I suggest even when you’re both on the same page!),” says Shifra. “Pray your heart out. Accept that the marital (dis)harmony in the home is also part of each child’s soul’s journey. We can only do what we can do. It’s vital we do the best we can but also, at the same time, accept what we can’t do. This is where Hashem put you and this is where He put your child. Accept yourself, your limitations, and your situation whatever it may be.”

Tell Them You Love Them

Rav Gamliel Rabinowitz, a mekubal and rosh yeshiva in Jerusalem, shares a powerful perspective on the challenges parents face in raising children amidst the temptations of today’s modern world. He says that telling our children to close their eyes to all the temptations around them is as difficult as if we’re asking them to perform the Akeida. Rav Gamliel suggests that rather than attempting to close their eyes to all temptations, parents must empower their teens to make choices aligned with their values while providing loving guidance and support along the way.

It’s all about focusing on the positive. Rav Gershon Edelstein, zt”l, former esteemed rosh yeshiva of the Ponevezh Yeshiva in Bnei Brak, in an interview, emphatically stressed the need to talk pleasantly at all times with our

“And remember,” she adds, “what the great educator Rabbi Zecharya Wallerstein, zt”l, said: ‘Falling is not failure. Not getting up is failure.’ Of course, you’ll fall. We all do; that’s why we’re here in this world. We just need to pick ourselves up.”

The Reward is in the Work

One of the most rewarding aspects of Shifra’s work is witnessing the ripple effect of positive change. When she assists a mother in finding her own inner strength and developing healthier patterns of interaction, it not only transforms her relationship with her teenager but also positively impacts the entire family. The growth and empowerment of one individual can create a lasting legacy that extends to future generations. Witnessing these transformations and the resulting positive changes within families affirms Shifra’s hope for the Jewish nation, which all begins with close family connection.

“Especially when they mess up make sure you tell them you love them.”

InKredible Kids: The Story

Hi there, I’m Morah Tziri, the host of InKredible Kids Podcast. I started this podcast because I wanted to create a Kosher, fun, and educational resource for children that didn’t rely on screens. As a teacher and a mom, I know how important it is to provide children with opportunities to learn and grow outside of school.

But there’s more. Allow me to share my story.

I was just a regular kid. Cute ENOUGH, smart ENOUGH, attentive ENOUGH, respectful ENOUGH. No middos award, no “best in bunk,” no main parts in the play, you get the picture. I will say that there were teachers who stand out to me now as being very caring, but it didn’t do enough for my sense of self in those formative years. As my elementary years turned into middle school years, my need for attention grew and my tendencies for lack of focus increased. School was no longer, “The best place in the world.”

Fast forward to my adult years. I discovered the joy of teaching, and discovered what I can do for the next generation of kids. I taught Kindergarten for 10 years, and my classroom was a haven of fun, growth, love of learning, and most importantly, love of self for each child. We had a theme song playing each morning, and songs with movement to introduce each subject. We dramatized EVERYTHING and made projects that were ONLY about creativity and kids’ independence. Teaching in a way that was totally centered around the kids’ attention spans

and interests, the kids didn’t even realize they were learning half the time!

I believe kids are our future. When we empower kids to express their creativity and individuality in their “magic decade,” their first 10 years of life, we can impact the whole way they see THEMSELVES. How sad is it to have kids who don’t see themselves as “worth it,” who aren’t encouraged to express their unique talents!

B”H I’m a busy Mom, and I searched for screenfree entertainment for my kids when they come home from a long day at school. I found NOTHING. The world out there is filled with such garbage, and I began to realize this is something I can do. I will just have to make that Kosher, educational, engaging content myself.

Enter InKredible Kids. A couple months ago, I put my dream into a reality, as I set out to record my first podcast. I talk directly to kids about things they want and need to hear about in the most engaging way. Calling on my own approach to classroom teaching, I try to load each themed episode with lots of surprises. I interview kids and include voice clips of children of all ages answering an open-ended question. Kids listening relate to other kids’ challenges and stories.

Screen-free content is what this generation needs NOW. A place where kids’ imagination can run wild, without the constant screens that are blinding our brains. While listening, they can be playing with

Play-Doh or be doing chores around the house. We have kids who listen to the podcast every night before going to sleep, and kids whose parents make it an incentive for getting ready on time for school in the morning.

Kids who usually can’t sit for more than two seconds are suddenly sitting glued to a podcast that could be 45 minutes long. “Why is that?” you might ask. Well, maybe they finally found a place where they feel understood, validated, and intrigued to learn more about other kids, and ultimately learn about themselves.

Parents are telling me, “My kid wouldn’t want to hear an episode that’s labeled ‘confidence’ or ‘anxiety’ or ‘responsibility,’ but when presented as ‘sports,’ ‘health conditions,’ or ‘twins,’ you’re talking their language.” In a fun and engaging way, they’re learning empathy, responsibility, confidence, emunah, and so much more.

Kids and parents can listen together and continue the discussion at dinner or on the road. And the adults are excited to play something for the kids that is entertaining for them too!

New episodes are released every other Thursday. Listen online at thebjh.com/podcasts/, or on Spotify, Apple Music, 24Six, Naki Radio, and more.

Visit InKredibleKids.org for more information. Email ikidspodcast@gmail.com to get your own kids involved!

TJH Centerfold Well Said, Mr. Franklin

Aside for being one of the Founding fathers of the U.S.A., Benjamin Franklin was also quite witty. The following sayings have been attributed to him:

“Any fool can criticize, condemn and complain, and most fools do.”

“Early to bed, early to rise makes a man healthy, wealthy, and wise.”

“Fish and visitors smell in three days.”

“Three may keep a secret, if two are dead.”

“In this world, nothing can be said to be certain, except death and taxes.”

“A man wrapped up in himself makes a very small bundle.”

“I didn’t fail the test; I just found 100 ways to do it wrong.”

“I wake up every morning at nine and grab for the morning paper. Then I look at the obituary page. If my name is not on it, I get up.”

“Most people return small favors, acknowledge medium ones and repay greater ones – with ingratitude.”



“We are all born ignorant, but one must work hard to remain stupid.”

Riddle me This

This year’s July 4th parade has a marching band, pairs of dancers, a float of jugglers, a dozen circus clowns, a veterans’ troop, a Boy Scout troop, and a championship football team.

Read the description of each group carefully and decide how many are in each group and in what order they marched in the parade.

The marching band was not the leader, but their 6 rows of 4 musicians in each row were near the front, just ahead of the veterans’ troop.

• The football team had 2 fewer marchers than the veterans’ troop, and took their time signing autographs as they marched at the end.

• The veterans’ troop and the Boy Scouts were separated by the 3 groups of 4 jugglers on the jugglers’ float.

• The 3 pairs of dancers were between the Boy Scouts and the football team.

• The Boy Scouts had 5 rows of 3 marchers and the veterans’ troop had twice as many.

12 circus clowns; 24 musicians in the marching band; 30 veterans; 12 jugglers; 15 Boy Scouts; 6 dancers; 28 football players



“He that is of the opinion money will do everything may well be suspected of doing everything for money.”

Answer: The groups are listed in the order that they marched, from first to last:

How It All Began Crossword Puzzle

You Gotta be Kidding Me!

A major explosion occurs in a fireworks factory, and once all the mess is cleared up, an investigation begins.

“OK, Joe,” says the investigator, “you were near the scene. What happened?”

Joe answers, “Well, Old Charley was in the mixing room, and I saw him take a cigar out of his pocket and light up.”

“He was smoking in the mixing room?” the investigator asks in stunned horror. “How long had he been with the company?”

“About 20 years, sir,” says Joe.

“20 years in the company, then he goes and strikes a match in the mixing room?! I’d have thought it would have been the last thing he’d have done!” says the astonished in-

Joe replies, “It was, sir.”

vestigator.

2nd President of the

10. The first tea party

12. “We hold these truths to be

2. Colonists who rebelled against the British (and a good NFL team)

4. Those who remained loyal to the King

8. Almanac published yearly by Benjamin Franklin

9. Adopted on September 17, 1787

11. Written by Francis Scott Key during battle of Fort McHenry

13. Led America to victory over the British

14. Number of stripes on the flag

15. The U.S. flag

16. First state to ratify the U.S. Constitution

Down: 1. BillofRights; 3. Thomas Jefferson; 5. Macys; 6. JohnHancock; 7. JohnAdams; 10.

BostonTeaParty; 12. SelfEvident Across: 2. Patriots; 4. Loyalists; 8. PoorRichards;

9. Constitution; 11. StarSpangledBanner; 13. GeorgeWashington; 14. Thirteen; 15. OldGlory

Notable Quotes “Say

What?!”

Biden hired 87,000 new armed IRS agents yet it’s the Pentagon that made an “accounting error” that gives $6.2 billion extra to Ukraine. The U.S. Government is run by imbeciles.

- A tweet in response to an announcement that the Pentagon provided an extra $6.2 billion to Ukraine due to an accounting error

10% to the “big guy”?

- Another Twitter response

I was just thanking, uh, uh, anyway… I started off without you, and I sold a lot of state secrets and a lot of very important things that we shared. No all kidding aside…

- President Biden’s bizarre (Freudian slip?) joke at the start of a meeting with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and tech CEOs last week

The Hunter Biden story, the scandal, the this, the that — it’s also the story of a father’s love, and Joe Biden has never and will never give up on his son Hunter, and will never treat him lesser than. He is a father first; take it or leave it. That’s who he is, that is part of his heart. There was 380 people at this dinner. It’s not like Hunter was sitting at [Attorney General] Merrick Garland’s lap. It was a bunch of people…and I think that the reason he’s been able to get out of addiction is because Joe Biden embraced him entirely the entire time.

- Ana Navarro, “The View”

There was no time in history where the people who were censoring free speech were the good guys.

- Robert Kennedy Jr., who is running against Biden for the Democrat nomination, pointing out to Bill Maher that today’s socalled liberals do not actually have liberal policies

The woke…idiots who run this city are doing everything in their power to destroy it…. We have the most violent, raging crime rate ever. We are being in invaded by illegal immigrants who are being treated way better than our homeless veterans. Our teachers and first responder heroes who were fired – still not compensated because they didn’t take the Fauci injection. Our city schools produce the dumbest kids and the woke…punks who run New York City are afraid of pizza.… It’s a…shame. You heard of the Boston Tea Party. This is the New York Pizza Party. Give us pizza or give us death.

Apparently, in New York City, some … little liberal arts, Ivy League, pink-haired, crazy liberal who’s never worked one day in the real world, is on an environmental commission and they woke up from their little nappy-poo wherever that may be and they’re like, “I figured out how to save the world today. We have to get rid of coal oven pizzerias in New York City.”

Anyone who knows this business knows that you don’t say no to that offer. They were going to put his name on that franchise. What do you do with $500 million that you can’t do with $440 million?

Do you know what’s going on in New York? You got rats. You got trash in the city, you got …cars, planes, private planes. You got people getting slashed on the subway. You got flash mobs robbing stores. And you’re coming for coal-oven pizzerias?

– Ibid.

You know, when [Biden] picked [Kamala Harris] her for VP, a lot of people were like, “Oh my G-d, why did he do that?” Because, I mean, obviously she’s got issues. But you know, I kind of understand why he did it, because like, she’s the best impeachment insurance money can buy. No matter what he does, no one wants Kamala.

- Gov. Ron DeSantis during a campaign speech

- Speech by a pizza lover protesting New York City’s crackdown on pizzeria ovens that are not climate friendly, before proceeding to toss three pies of pizza over the gate at City Hall

- Barstool Sports president and famed pizza reviewer Dave Portnoy reacting to New York City’s crackdown on pizzeria ovens

– Former MLB player David Ortiz offering unsolicited advice to San Diego Padres star Juan Soto who reportedly turned down a $440 million offer

This year, every Republican candidate has to answer endless questions about Trump. Interviewing former Vice President Mike Pence on “Meet the Press” this past weekend, literally every question Chuck Todd asked was about Trump. Why are you running against Trump? Were the midterms about Trump? What do you think about Trump’s position on abortion? What do you think about Trump’s position on Social Security? What do you think about Trump’s position on Ukraine? Should Trump’s trial be completed before the election? What if Trump is found guilty? OK, let’s move off Trump and talk about your campaign. Do Trump supporters like you?

You just drop like a stone for two and a half hours.

– Ann Coulter

– Mike Reiss, who was on the Titan submersible last summer describing the experience to The New York Times

You can boo all you want!

- Chris Christie at the Faith & Freedom Coalition Conference after he was booed by the audience for bashing Trump

Dating Dialogue What Would You Do If…

Moderated by Jennifer Mann, LCSW of The Navidaters

Dear Navidaters,

I am the mother of five wonderful children, one of whom is about to start dating. My son is more on the “yeshivish” side. He is coming back from learning in Eretz Yisroel in the summer and is looking to start dating.

Because he is more yeshivish, he hasn’t had much interaction with those of the opposite gender. What advice can I give him to make him more comfortable when he starts dating? I don’t want him to be scared or awkward when he starts to date.

Thank you.

-Baila

Disclaimer: This column is not intended to diagnose or otherwise conclude resolutions to any questions. Our intention is not to offer any definitive conclusions to any particular question, rather offer areas of exploration for the author and reader. Due to the nature of the column receiving only a short snapshot of an issue, without the benefit of an actual discussion, the panel’s role is to offer a range of possibilities. We hope to open up meaningful dialogue and individual exploration.

The Panel

The Rebbetzin

Rebbetzin Faigie Horowitz, M.S.

Baila, this is a wise move to make. You don’t want your son’s friends to be the only influence on him. Here are a few points to discuss which will open the conversation. Follow the topics where they go and discuss further and deeper at other opportunities. I am sure my fellow panelists will make other useful suggestions.

You want to have an open relationship with your son as he adults. Use this opportunity to bring the two of you closer. After years away from home, a young man needs to reconnect with his parents, share his values, demonstrate his maturity, and communicate, too. Be straight. Put your needs aside and pay attention to what he is expressing. Create an environment where you can ask follow-up questions and build

trust. Be smart and focus on helping your son feel supported and understood.

Remind your son that just like he is eager to make a good impression, so is a girl on a date. Making an effort to put a girl at ease is smart and kind. Getting to know the other person beyond the initial impression takes time.

Letting one’s personality show is important. Being authentic takes time, skill, and effort. You may want to role play in a light manner.

I would also discuss the pluses and minuses of dating for boys and girls immediately upon return from Eretz Yisroel.

The Engaged Couple

Shmuli & Shira

From Awkward Dates to Happily Ever Laughter.

Hi! It’s great that you’re looking for advice to help your son feel more comfortable as he enters the “Dating Parsha.” When you are helping your son (and BE”H your other kids) find his other half keep in mind his emotions, feelings, and gut feeling. Regardless of the number of dates, always be there for him by making sure that you fully understand him (his needs, wants and feelings) and at no point at all show him any pressure or sense of being rushed. Here are some tips you can share with him.

First and foremost is communication. Encourage your son to communicate openly and honestly with his date. It’s important for him to express his thoughts, interests, and concerns while also listening actively to his partner.

Next is to always be yourself; authenticity is crucial. Encourage him to stay true to his hashkafa, personality, and interests. It’s very important not to pretend to be someone else he’s not, just to impress his date. For your son, this is a next-level whole new experience, and therefore advise your son to take things at a comfortable pace. Again, he shouldn’t feel the need to rush things or have outside pressure from yourself or

Since this is a new experience, I would suggest that you or another female (cousin, female relative) should “go out” on a mock date and get him used to going out with a girl. A good idea (this is not for everyone) would be to go to a Shabbos lunch either as a family or with his friends to be exposed to and/or talk to a girl who is there. Another thing he should do is to scout out the date location beforehand with a friend, or really anyone. This would be so that he is comfortable with the place and have a sense of familiarity.

Being a good and keen listener is in the same place as communication. These are very important traits (as I’m sure you know)! Encourage and practice with your son to actively listen to his date and show genuine interest in what she has to say. Being a good listener (giving your full attention) while still having a good conversation involves finding a balance between attentive listening and active

From the moment she comes down those steps till he brings her to her front

door, (yes, walk her to her door unless all the neighbors are being Yentas), he should try his best to maintain eye contact. To nod and smile often and by providing verbal cues (a simple “uh huh”) shows that he’s actively listening. Avoid interrupting at all costs! It is important to let the other person finish speaking before responding. Teach your son to resist the urge to interrupt or interject his thoughts while his date is talking. Ask open-ended questions! Practice with your son asking open-ended questions that go beyond simple “yes” or “no” answers. This prompts his date to share more about herself, her interests, and her experience. When she (hopefully) reciprocates and asks him a question, he should make sure to ask her back the same question. Share personal experiences that can relate to the topic at hand (stories from yeshiva, his dorm, or camp).

Encourage your son to show genuine curiosity about his date’s life, hobbies, family, dreams, hashkafa, and goals. He should avoid distractions, for example at the date’s location (that’s why it’s good to scout out the place) and not to look at his phone except when using GPS or in an emergency! When your son does start to date, is in the process of dating, and especially when things are getting serious, he should have an outside perspective from a trusted mentor or rabbi who has experience within a yeshivish framework.

Make sure to tell him that when on (all) the date(s), he should bring or if he forgot, then buy her a drink. Also, before

Being a good listener (giving your full attention) while still having a good conversation involves finding a balance between attentive listening and active engagement.

Lasker Designs

he starts driving, he should let her know where they are headed to (unless you are proposing on that date then you can leave it to be a surprise).

Remember, it’s normal to feel a bit (a lot) nervous or (very) awkward when entering the dating world. Remind your son to have patience, be kind to himself, and approach dating with a positive attitude. Hatzlacha to him in this new “parsha” of his life!

The Single

Tzipora Grodko

Dear Baila, What a great question. I would first validate your son and let him know that it’s perfectly normal for him if he feels nervous or uncomfortable. The

unknown is nerve-wracking, dating is nerve-wracking, and all that combined with being sensitive to the opposite gender is even MORE nerve-wracking. And again, that’s to be expected!

I would put things in perspective and let him know that the girl is probably also a bit nervous, and that’s totally OK! I would then boost up his ego, informing him that any girl would be lucky to spend time with him, and that the goal is to simply connect with another person and treat them with dignity and class.

The Zaidy

Dr. Jeffrey Galler

That is a very relevant, practical question.

Pulling It All Together

The Navidaters

Dating and Relationship Coaches and Therapists

Dear Baila,

Thank you so much for writing into our column. I commend you for wanting to prepare your son as he begins the dating chapter of his life and help him to feel more comfortable during the process.

Growing up not having interaction with members of the opposite gender can most certainly leave most people feeling rather unprepared and even scared or anxious as they contemplate spending large amounts of time one on one.

One piece of advice that many early daters and your son should find invaluable is the fact that people are people. Men are people. And women are peo -

ple. Refram- ing the situation from “date with the opposite gender” to “meeting with a person” can really take the pressure off a young, novice dater. When boys and girls don’t have access to the opposite gender in any sort of social situation, they can begin to fantasize all sorts of catastrophes and can believe that the opposite gender is so very different from who he/she is. Helping your son reframe and see things through this lens may prove to help alleviate some of his anxiety.

Letting your son know that it is the

First, if one of his sisters is mature enough, it might be helpful for him to go on a mock date with her. She can help him understand what topics girls like to discuss. She can give him valuable feedback and give him a boost of confidence before his first real date.

Second, there are important pointers that might not be so obvious to a sheltered yeshiva boy. He needs to practice good hygiene and dress in nice, clean clothes. And, he needs to understand that because girls spend a lot of time preparing for a date, they need to know what he is planning. For example, if he is planning a walk in the park, she would want to know not to wear high heels. Will they be going to the Bronx Zoo, to a coffee shop, or to a fancy restaurant?

He needs to realize that this is not a night out with his chavrusa friends. He needs to make sure that the car is clean and free of odors, that he drives responsibly, and that he acts like a gentleman who politely holds the door open for the lady.

Further, remind him to avoid speaking non-stop and dominating the conversation. A pleasant date involves a healthy give-and-take about mutually interesting topics.

And, finally, the date should not proceed like a stressful job interview. Tell your son to throw away his list of “Important Questions to Ask Your Date.” A boy and girl can get to know each other while enjoying a pleasant evening together. This is an exciting time of life, and here’s hoping that your son enjoys his experiences.

most normal thing in the world to feel anxious or awkward as he begins dating is another strategy that if employed can help settle his nerves. “Of course, you’re nervous! That means you’re normal! Most people are!” Once you have validated and normalized his feelings, if he is open to it, you can help him explore his feelings and explore his anxieties. This will let him know that you are a completely safe and judgment-free person for him to speak with and confide in as he begins to date. So often, well-meaning people, in an attempt to “help,” will say things like, “You have nothing to be worried about.” Or, “It’s really not a big deal.” The thing is, he is worried and he does feel like it’s a big deal. Letting him know that you “get it” may go a long way.

And finally, you can try reminding him of the two following facts. The

woman who is meant for him is going to accept him and adore him exactly as he is – and that includes first date jitters. Most empathic people understand how nerve-racking it is to be on a first date. Anyone who is not understanding or who judges him harshly if he does have a little anxiety on the date is simply not the woman for him. It really is that simple. Very often, our anxieties around dating would lead us to believe otherwise.

The other thing to remind him of Is that all he needs to do is show up as his authentic self. And sometimes as we begin dating, especially when we have no experience with the opposite gender, our authentic selves include a healthy dose of anxiety.

Wishing you and your son all the best!

Sincerely, Jennifer

Jennifer Mann, LCSW is a licensed psychotherapist and certified trauma healing life coach, as well as a dating and relationship coach working with individuals, couples, and families in private practice at 123 Maple Avenue in Cedarhurst, NY. To set up a consultation or to ask questions, please call 718-908-0512. Visit www.thenavidaters.com for more information. If you would like to submit a dating or relationship question to the panel anonymously, please email JenniferMannLCSW@gmail.com. You can follow The Navidaters on FB and Instagram for dating and relationship advice.

The date should not proceed like a stressful job interview.

Common Cents Income Producing Assets or Income Consuming Assets? Choose Wisely

Awonderful point along the financial empowerment journey is realizing that, for the most part, money coming in is greater than money going out. This is a phenomenal accomplishment that everyone should be very proud of. The point of sustained positive cash flow is mostly attributable to hard work, motivation, and fortitude to establish healthy money habits. Now you will find yourself facing another important financial decision – what do I do with all this extra money? It is time to start buying some assets! Here are two important rules to help guide your decision:

1. Not All Assets are created equal

2. Income Producing Assets > Income Consuming Assets

One of the most important choices you’ll make once you’ve mastered personal cash flow is prioritizing income-producing assets over income-consuming assets. Income-producing assets generate cash flow for you, while income-consuming assets require cash flow from you.

Let’s take my second rule: Income Producing Assets > Income Consuming Assets. The reason for this is simple – income-producing assets have the potential to increase wealth over time, while income-consuming assets decrease wealth over time. Income consuming assets should not be completely disregarded – after all, the hard work and effort you put in to earn income and live fiscally responsible also includes buying assets that provide enjoyment and pleasure. With that in mind, let’s explore the difference between these two asset types and some tips to help strike a healthy financial and personal balance.

What are income-producing assets?

Income-producing assets are investments that generate cash flow for you. Examples of income-producing assets include rental properties, dividend-paying stocks, bonds, and mutual funds. When you invest in an income-producing asset, you can expect to receive a regular stream of income from that investment.

One of the biggest advantages of

income-producing assets is that they can provide a source of passive income. That means you can earn money without having to actively work for it. If you’re looking to build wealth over the long term, having a source of passive income can be a huge help.

Another advantage of income-producing assets is that they can provide a hedge against inflation. When prices rise over time, the value of your cash holdings will decrease. However, if you own income-producing assets, the income they generate may rise along with inflation.

What are income-consuming assets?

Income-consuming assets are investments that require cash flow from you. Examples of income-consuming assets include your home, car, and other personal possessions. When you invest in an income-consuming asset, you can expect to have to spend money on maintenance, repairs, and other expenses associated with that investment.

One of the biggest disadvantages of income-consuming assets is that they can be a drain on your finances. If you own a car, for example, you’ll have to pay for things like gasoline, maintenance, repairs, and insurance. All of these expenses can add up over time and take a significant chunk out of your budget.

Another disadvantage of income-consuming assets is that they don’t generate any income for you. Instead, they require you to spend money on them. This means that if you’re trying to build wealth over the long term, income-consuming assets won’t help you achieve that goal. Just like income producing assets can be a hedge against inflation, income consuming assets can exacerbate the negative impacts of inflation.

So what is the argument for buying income consuming assets? Well, I don’t know about you, but I am not a machine – I am a person…a person who enjoys taking trips, going to concerts, buying gifts for friends and family, and having a really comfortable couch to read the latest Common

By Elliot Pepper, CPA, CFP®, MST

Cents article. Like so many things in finance and investing, balance is key and the below considerations can help you find the right balance of income consuming assets for your life.

1. Necessity: Some income-consuming assets, such as a home or a car, are necessary for daily living. In these cases, it may be necessary to buy income-consuming assets, even if they don’t generate income for you.

2. Personal enjoyment: Some income-consuming assets, such as a vacation home or a boat, and concert tickets may be purchased primarily for personal enjoyment. While these assets may not generate income, they can provide significant enjoyment and relaxation, which is an important part of life! Be mindful, the warp of social media on the definition of personal enjoyment. Constant comparison to false and unrealistic expectations of reality can trap us into spending more on things to impress others than for personal enjoyment.

3. Tax benefits: Some income-consuming assets, such as a primary residence or a charitable donation, may provide tax benefits that can offset the cost of ownership. For example, the interest you pay on your mortgage may be tax-deductible, which can reduce your overall tax liability. I often struggle with finding the right balance of allocating money toward income producing assets and income consuming assets. In order to help me stay committed to prioritizing income producing assets is to allow myself the benefit of realizing their reward shortly after buying them in

short spurts. For example, if I decide to forgo splurging on that $3,000 exercise bike and instead dropped $3,000 into my brokerage account that will pay me a 4% dividend yield – I will take $120 from that account and buy myself a new pair of running shoes or take my family out for dinner – I will do something small but use my passive income to pay for it. It feels good when you can pay for the fun things in life with money that you didn’t have to work for – that feeling can only come when you plan your life accepting that income producing assets > income consuming assets.

The decision to start saving and investing is yours, but the “how” can be hard. We suggest speaking with a “fee only” financial planner operating as a fiduciary - having a CPA or tax background is a huge plus. Email commoncents@northbrookfinancial. com to schedule a free financial planning consultation with our team.

Elliot Pepper, CPA, CFP®, MST is Co-Founder of Northbrook Financial, a Financial Planning, Tax, and Investment Management Firm. He has developed and continues to teach a popular Financial Literacy course for high school students.

SHABBOSDinner

2Challahs

2qtChickenSoup

6pcsRoastedorBBQChicken

Rice,RoastedPotatoes,PotatoKugel,orFarfal

RoastedVegetablesorGreenBeans

2ParveSalads(1lbeach)

(Coleslaw,PotatoSalad,CousCous,CucumberSalad, IsraeliSalad,BabyCornSalad)

SHABBOSLunch

2Challahs • 2Dips • 2qtChulent

1lbLiver&1lbEggSaladorGefiltaFish

1/2lb

PastramiCornedBeef,RoastBeef, orBrisket

1/2lbTurkeyPastrami,Salami,BolognaorTurkey (Gourmet,Classic,Honey,Smoked,orMexican)

6-8PiecesGrilledChickenStripsorShnitzelFingers

8x5Kugel (Potato,SweetNoodle,orYerushalmi)

2ParveSalads(1lbeach)

(Coleslaw,PotatoSalad,CousCous,CucumberSalad, IsraeliSalad,BabyCornSalad,ChickpeaSalad,Quinoa,CornSalad, GardenSalad,orCesarSalad)

Salmon Appetizer • $5 pp

Turkey Salad • $11 / lb (min. 1 lb) London Broil • $9 pp

Brisket and Gravy • $9 pp

Glazed Corned Beef • $9 pp

Salmon Wellington • $14 pp

Grilled Chicken • $5 pp

Pastrami & Kishka Stuffed Chicken Breast • $10 pp

8x5 Yapchick • $14

8x5 Apple Cobbler • $12

Cookies • $8 / box

The K tchen

Baby Flounder and Vegetables in Foil

Serves 4

By Naomi Nachman

Ingredients

◦ 4 slices flounder

◦ 2 carrots, shredded

◦ 4 scallions, finely chopped

◦ 2 small zucchini, sliced

◦ 4 cups marinara sauce

◦ Salt and pepper, to taste

Preparation

Preheat oven to 400°F. Rinse fish under cold water and pat dry. Prepare 4 sheets of aluminum foil large enough to completely wrap fish and vegetables.

Place fish in the center of each piece of foil.

Evenly divide the carrots, scallions and zucchini and place on top of fish and season with salt and pepper. Pour marinara sauce over vegetables.

Bring edges of foil together, fold, and crimp together to close completely. Place foil packets on a baking sheet and bake for 20 minutes or until fish are just opaque throughout. Remove from oven; serve hot.

Naomi Nachman, the owner of The Aussie Gourmet, caters weekly and Shabbat/ Yom Tov meals for families and individuals within The Five Towns and neighboring communities, with a specialty in Pesach catering. Naomi is a contributing editor to this paper and also produces and hosts her own weekly radio show on the Nachum Segal Network stream called “A Table for Two with Naomi Nachman.” Naomi gives cooking presentations for organizations and private groups throughout the New York/New Jersey Metropolitan area. In addition, Naomi has been a guest host on the QVC TV network and has been featured in cookbooks, magazines as well as other media covering topics related to cuisine preparation and personal chefs. To obtain additional recipes, join The Aussie Gourmet on Facebook or visit Naomi’s blog. Naomi can be reached through her website, www.theaussiegourmet.com or at (516) 295-9669.

This is a super quick recipe to prepare that comes with a built-in side dish. With the Nine Days approaching, I am trying to share a few parve recipes to add to our repertoire. You can prepare some rice or potatoes as your carb.

Cross Keys Pediatrics

MIDDAH OF THE MONTH!

Nominate a friend or sibling for how they showed DERECH ERETZ with a short explanation and you both could win a Target or Amazon gift card!

Winner will receive a gift card - and one for their friend or sibling too!

Shmuel Kosoy, 9

Yaakov Pianko, 10 Rachelli Turk, 7

Nina Hersh, 3 Esti Katz, 5.5

Devora Frank, 6 Anna Brody, 7

Adiel Shemuel , 4 Abigail Jakob, 6 Abbie

Rena Feigenbaum, 4 Ahuva Salhanik , 7

EVEN MORE SUBMISSIONS

Note: Not all submission have been published. Keep sending in your artwork for another chance to be featured!

Elisheva, 5

Yosef F. 8

Yitzy Bulka, 6½

Y Schoemann

U.n Fuentes, 5

Tamar Weiss & Hudi Berkowitz

Shmuel & Baila J. Sara, 9

Ruchama Plotnik, 9

Rena Feigenbaum, 4

Molly Moskowitz, 7

Leora Hersh, 6

Leba S., 10

Elisheva Lewis, 11

Eliana Lewis, 9

Dalya Klein Chezky, 7

Chaviva Moskowitz, 8

Chananel Moshe Romer, 4 Boaz Klein, 4

Binyamin Goldman, 7

Ariel Simon, 4

Ari Rosenbaum, 6

A.m Fuentes, 7

A.d Fuentes, 4

Our beloved internal revenue code currently runs 4,968 pages. That’s a lot of fingers and toes! But you can reduce the whole exercise to three simple steps. First, Washington writes the rules to ensure that Uncle Sam collects an “appropriate” amount of tax from the income we earn. (Reasonable people can disagree on what’s appropriate, which is why we have a two-party system.) Second, clever attorneys and accountants find ways to help clients sidestep those rules. (They get paid very well to do it, which is why they drive Porsches and Jaguars.) Third, Washington rewrites the rules to close the loopholes the accountants and attorneys discover in Step Two. Rinse. Repeat.

We also have 43 state governments collecting income taxes to finance their operations. Most of them start by piggybacking on the same definition of income as the IRS. However, they generally don’t tax residents on income they earn in other states. That leads to the same sorts of games that planners play to exclude income from federal tax. Now California Governor Gavin Newsom is taking dead aim at one of those strategies that let Golden Staters avoid tax on certain investment income.

The strategy is called an “incomplete

Your Money Tax Whac-a-Mole

By Allan Rolnick, CPA

non-grantor trust,” or ING. Google it if you’re a masochist—honestly, the details would just put you to sleep. The bottom line is, INGs let rich actors, producers, and tech bros establish trusts in states with no tax to avoid California’s bite on trust income. The trusts are specially drafted so that transfers fail to qualify as “complete” for gift tax purposes. (Think

an out-of-state trust just isn’t worth the squeeze. But California’s top tax rate is 13.3% on income over $1 million. That’s the highest in the country. It’s certainly enough to hurt. And if it hurts enough, it justifies paying a white-shoe trust lawyer for some fancy paperwork razzle-dazzle.

California isn’t the first high-tax state to notice residents parking trust income

percent of the state’s $224 billion budget. Money is tight in California, and the state needs every dime it can collect to finance its ambitious spending. But rewriting the law to collect something less than a rounding error strikes some observers as the revenue-raising equivalent of college kids scrounging through their couch cushions to pay for Taco Bell after a night of binge drinking they’ll soon regret.

of this as the tax equivalent of intentionally fouling your opponent in basketball.)

Typically, they’re established in Delaware, Nevada, or Wyoming, which is why planners swap talk about DINGs, NINGs, and WINGs.

Now, if you live in a state like Pennsylvania, where the tax on investment income is just 3.07%, you’d probably find the juice you get from establishing

elsewhere. In 2014, New York (with a top rate of 10.9%) rewrote their law to close the loophole. Oh, and just to add insult to injury, California’s proposal would be retroactive to January 1 of this year.

How much tax will that capture?

Less than you think. Newsom’s budget estimates it would collect $30 million in 2023-24 and $17 million annually thereafter. That’s barely 1/100th of one

Nobody likes paying taxes. And it’s easy to think of the IRS as the big bad wolf when it comes to looking for someone to blame. But the tax collectors who staff the underbudgeted service aren’t to blame. They’re just enforcing the laws that Congress writes and the president signs. The same is true at the state level. Our job, as always, is to keep up with those laws at all levels to ensure you keep as much as you legally can without having to take a road trip to visit your money!

Allan J Rolnick is a CPA who has been in practice for over 30 years in Queens, NY. He welcomes your comments and can be reached at 718-896-8715 or at allanjrcpa@aol.com.

The bottom line is, INGs let rich actors, producers, and tech bros establish trusts in states with no tax to avoid California’s bite on trust income.