Community Happenings

The Jewish Home | SEPTEMBER 30, 2022 Around the Community

JCCRP Rosh Hashana Food Distribution

This past week, the JCCRP had its annual Rosh Hashana food distribution. The JCCRP arranged for a beautiful variety of food items including roasts, chicken, fish and eggs, star fruit and pomegranates, a variety of cookies, candies, sauces and so much more to be distributed to those in need in our community.

The week began with volunteers of all ages and walks of life coming together eager to do chessed for their neighbors in need. They bagged produce, unpacked deliveries, and organized the many packages for pick up. Among the volunteers was a local retired couple that came to give back to our community. “We are more than happy to be able to help our community ahead of yom tov. It is really our pleasure to do this chessed and help JCCRP make it all happen.”

Hundreds of clients came to pick up their robust holiday orders on Sunday, September 18, receiving numerous boxes of essential items ahead of yuntiv. With music playing on the speakers, the atmosphere was lively, upbeat, and consistent with the theme of the day. Everyone was happy to give back to the community in a most dignified and respectful way.

Many prominent volunteers joined in the distribution efforts! Assemblywoman Stacey Pheffer Amato (23rd Assembly District, Queens) took time out of her extremely busy schedule to help out. Others who rolled up their sleeves to help include: Assembly Member Khaleel M. Anderson (31st District); Councilwoman Selvena Brooks-Powers (D-31st district); Jose Reina, representing the office of Congressman Gregory M. Meeks (NY-5); Pesach Osina, representing the office of Speaker Adrienne E. Adams, NYC Council; Pinny Hikind, representing the office of the New York City Comptroller Brad Lander; and Aaron Cyperstein, Managing Director of Legal & External Affairs at Met Council.

We are grateful to our wonderful volunteers from Yeshiva of South Shore, HALB, DRS, HAFTR, and Yeshiva Ateres Eitz Chaim. They all took time out of their busy learning schedules to help us pack hundreds of boxes. We are truly grateful the local schools instill a strong sense of chessed from the beginning of the school year! The JCCRP and its Kosher Digital Food Pantry are able to do this kind of distribution in large part due to their ongoing support.

We are truly thankful for our local partners, RNSP and the local 101st Precinct. The entire event was smooth and calm in large part due to their continuous assistance during the distribution directing traffic and maintaining an atmosphere of order and security.

Mrs. Deal, executive director of the JCCRP, expressed her praise of this amazing collective effort, “The goal of this distribution was to have the most dignified distribution for our community. With the assistance of all of our community partners and friends we worked tirelessly together to procure a vast array of food for our neighbors, friends, and colleagues in need. Students starting their school year, retirees and local elected officials all came together to volunteer and help those in need. Additionally, none of this would have been possible without the generosity of our partners: UJA Federation of NY, Met Council, City Harvest and Food Bank for NYC.”

Chany*, a resident of Far Rockaway, expressed her gratitude, “This pick-up was the best, most practical food pick-up ever! It was such an amazing box, I can use everything in it! You included Duncan Hines mix, sweet chili sauce, pastas… it was the most amazing food pick up ever! Thank you, thank you, thank you!” The JCCRP is a proud affiliate of Met Council and a beneficiary agency of UJA Federation of NY. The JCCRP provides a range of services for any community members who need assistance. For more information on JCCRP services, or to sign up to volunteer, please email info@ jccrp.org.

Around the Community Assemblyman Brown Honors Local Entrepreneur

Assemblyman Ari Brown (R-Cedarhurst) recently presented an official Assembly Proclamation to Five Towns resident and Sephardic Jewish Community liaison Michael Edery to recognize his vast accomplishments and philanthropic efforts on Long Island.

A proud member of the Sephardic Jewish community, Michael emigrated from England in 1990. After quickly becoming a popular lecturer in Talmud and Jewish theology at the young age of 25, Michael began a career in commercial real estate, founding the Paradigm Funding Group in 1999. He continues to hold lectures on various topics of Jewish theology and Talmud and often generously donates his time and resources to causes that strike a chord with him, including at-risk teens, organ donation and special needs children.

“Michael has led a truly extraordinary life, and it is my honor to recognize all he has done for the local Jewish community, academia, the real estate industry and our neighbors on Long Island,” Brown said. “Michael has had a positive impact on all those around him, and his charitable and altruistic endeavors are a shining example of the generosity and compassion we should all strive to share with others. I am proud to call him a friend and a colleague.”

The HALB PTA Back to School Carnival was a huge success. Students and parents had a great time!

CAHAL Opens Two Brand-New First Grade Classes

All beginnings are exciting, but first grade brings its own particular excitement. First grade is not only the start of elementary school, but also the children’s first real experience in the world of academics. As our students embark on this journey, we are thrilled to have opened up two brand-new first grade classrooms this year: a boys’ class at Yeshiva Ketana of Long Island (YKLI) and a girls’ class at Torah Academy for Girls (TAG). Both classes have professional and experienced state-certified Special Education teachers. Morah Keren Englard (TAG, General Studies) excitedly says, “The girls are acclimating beautifully to our classroom and learning how to be first graders!” Students are learning the mainstream curriculum in both Limudei Kodesh and General Studies in a supportive, nurturing, and warm environment. The small class sizes and 4:1 student to teacher ratio give each student the attention they need to grow and flourish.

“We are learning foundational skills which will help us reach our bigger goals,” says Mrs. Esther Parnes (YKLI, General Studies). This includes phonological awareness, decoding skills, and understanding the value of numbers in General Studies. In Limudei Kodesh, students focus on yahadus, kriah, kesiva, and concepts for pre-Chumash skills.

Character development is fundamental for students of any age and is reinforced in first grade in a fun and meaningful way. Rabbi Avraham Russ (YKLI, Limudei Kodesh) shares that his talmidim are “learning to find the hidden treasure within us.” To quote journalist Bob Talbert, “Teaching kids to count is fine, but teaching them what counts is best.” Mrs. Parnes couldn’t agree more: “We are learning that being a good friend counts, manners count, that trying our best counts, and that middos tovos count.” Morah Deena Schwartz (TAG, Limudei Kodesh) comments, “First grade is not only the time to imbue the girls with a love of Yiddishkeit, but also to model proper middos and social skills.”

Middos are taught through lessons and by modeling, and with such wonderful teachers, these lessons are easily learned.

Around the Community Central’s Kickoff Challah Bake CHAZAQ Israel Experience for Public School Teens

On Tuesday, September 20, Central held its annual Great Round Challah Bake. The Challah Bake is an event that many at Central have come to eagerly anticipate – a chance for students, faculty, and staff to bake, bond, and prepare for the upcoming holiday.

Over 200 members of the Central community attended, and the crowds of mothers, aunts, daughters, sisters, alumnae, and even incoming eighth graders made for a bustling, dynamic evening. The night began with a dinner sponsored by NCSY 4G. The meal was followed by a special guest speaker, Mrs. Mirlana Morris, the mother of Donny Morris, a”h, who was lost in the 2021 Meron tragedy. Mrs. Morris spoke movingly about drawing strength from the Jewish community in the wake of her loss, making an impact on all who attended.

“Our first event of the semester, and it was such a significant way to start a year of 75th-anniversary celebrations for Central,” said Central Dean of Students, Mrs. Aliza Gewirtz.

Junior Talia Frankel, a member of Central’s Cooking Club, agreed: “The Challah Bake was both fun and meaningful,” she said. “We got to have extra bonding time with our families and friends, baking challah to bring in the Chagim. We also got the privilege of hearing from Mrs. Morris about the tragedy that occurred to her son, which put a more inspirational turn to the event, teaching us about emunah.”

This event was made possible with the assistance of Central’s Cooking Club and the Central programming team. Many thanks to them, and hearty thanks to Mrs. Gewirtz, whose leadership and coordination made the evening a success with over 250 people in attendance! For many teens, the last thing on their summer wish list is to be part of a learning program. After all, school is out, so let’s enjoy some time in the sun. However, this year, summer vacation took on a higher meaning for 17 public school students who were inspired to expand on their spiritual journey by spending time in the Holy Land of Eretz Yisroel.

After an intense and exciting semester at CHAZAQ’s JWave fellowship program in conjunction with Olami, Rabbis Avrohom Walkin and David Delman, renowned for their dedication in youth outreach, gave their students an experience of a lifetime.

From daily learning at Yeshiva Ohr Somayach to visiting all the historic and holy sites of Jerusalem and Chevron, to camel back riding and hiking in the Judean desert, the trip truly was one of the most meaningful and memorable experiences for all the attendees.

For one student, however, the trip was extra special. Daniel Yusupov’s mother tragically passed away several years ago, and he had not yet merited visiting her gravesite in Jerusalem. Although he is only 16 years old and didn’t officially qualify for the Chazaq trip, Chazaq Director Rabbi Ilan Meirov made an exception and granted him permission to join due to his dedication in attending daily Chazaq Jwave programs.

At a visit to the Har Hamenuchot cemetery in Jerusalem, the Chazaq staff were able to track down his mother’s grave, and Daniel prayed fervently by her resting place, a moment he will cherish forever. He then spoke to his peers and implored them to honor their parents while they have the opportunity and to never take them for granted. Everyone was truly moved by this special moment of connection.

As the boys returned from their Israel trip, Daniel transferred from public school to Yeshiva Ezra Academy, as he now embarked on a new journey in his young life.

On the girls’ end, 15 CHAZAQ fellowship students enjoyed trips to upstate New York and Miami Florida. Mrs. Amit Yaghoubi, head of the Girls fellowship program, built a special connection with all her students and helped introduce them to many new concepts in Judaism while enjoying many beautiful attractions. As the summer came to a close, seven of the Chazaq fellowship students completed their senior year in public school and transferred to seminary in Eretz Yisroel. These seven students join the over 1,200 public school students of all ages who have transferred from public school to Yeshiva since Chazaq started their “No child left behind” initiative prior to the 2017 school year.

“We are blessed to have a staff that is fully dedicated to our afterschool programs,” says Chazaq CEO Rabbi Yaniv Meirov. “And they work tirelessly to guide these students and their families to explore the option of yeshiva education.

“Baruch Hashem, we have had tremendous success but it’s only the beginning.” To register to one of CHAZAQ’s 13 Sunday school locations for children, or daily programs for teens, please contact Chazaq or visit www.chazaq.org.

Congratulations to Mr. Richard Altabe, Lower School Principal at HALB, for being appointed to the NYSED Graduation Measures Blue Ribbon Commission!

Commission members will undertake a thoughtful and inclusive process to explore what a state diploma should signify and ensure educational excellence and equity for every student in New York State. The 64 members represent a diverse group of educators, administrators, researchers, school counselors and other professionals. Thank you, Mr. Altabe, for your dedication to education and excellence!

Shulamith Students are Inventing and Creating

Shulalmith sixth graders Sophie Tuchman, Ayala Kupfer and Meira Grushko were determined to find out how a pen is made and researched and demonstrated to the class a prototype of a pen made out of household materials. We were all amazed at the incredible use of intellectual curiosity and the scientific method.

Republicans Call Out State Ed. Dept for Targeting Yeshivas

On Friday, a group of Nassau County Republican elected officials and candidates took aim at the New York State Department of Education for what they characterized as the institution’s thinly veiled and hostile attack on religious education, especially the yeshiva community of schools across New York State. Standing alongside Jewish community leaders on the steps of the Hebrew Academy of Long Beach (HALB), the officials decried the unwarranted attack on freedom of religion and educational liberty in the Empire State, which has been presented by the New York State Board of Education under the wholesome sounding pseudonym of “substantial equivalency.”

At the press conference were Assemblymen Ed Ra and Ari Brown, Republican Assembly candidate Jake Blumencranz, as well as Patricia Canzoneri-Fitpatrick, the Republican Senate Candidate in the 9th District, James Coll, the GOP’s choice in the 6th Senate District, and Jack Martins, the Republican candidate in the 7th Senate District. The officials represent and are running to represent communities that are home to yeshivas, including the communities of West Hempstead, Great Neck and the Five Towns. Also present at the press briefing were Rabbi Mordechai Kamenetzky of Yeshiva of South Shore, Richard Altabe, the Lower School Principal and Executive President of Institutional Advancement at Hebrew Academy of Long Beach, and Jonathan Katz, the Chairman of the Hebrew Academy of Long Beach Political Awareness Council.

“We stand here today in defense of religious and educational freedom, which has come under attack by the New York State Department of Education,” stated Ra. “The State Education Department has led a mean-spirited and ugly campaign to stamp out religious education, not to mention all private education. We won’t stand for it.”

Under the State Education Department’s “substantial equivalency” mandate, nonpublic schools must either select a “pathway” or allow a local public-school authority to review its curriculum for “substantial equivalency.” Private schools must make that decision by December 1, 2023. The “pathway” includes offering regent’s diplomas, offering tests provided by the State, or submitting to other Education Department imposed criteria for State accreditation. In the alternative to the “pathway” choice, the public-school review option would subject religious and other private schools to reviews by local public-school districts, as well as votes by local public-school boards on whether the private schools meet the standards of the local public-school boards.

“The State Education Department is being heavy-handed, demonstrating a secular superiority over the education of local religious schools, especially our yeshiva community of schools,” said Brown. “This authoritarian maneuver is a slap in the face of democratic principles, religious freedom and educational liberty. It has to stop now.”

The officials, candidates and religious leaders noted that local yeshiva and other private school students have attained the highest level of academic achievement, garnering many independent awards from the corporate, educational and scientific community. Additionally, the student body of the Long Island yeshivas have achieved tremendous success, boasting a very high rate of acceptance into the finest colleges and universities, completion of rigorous areas of college-level study, and succeeding in the most academically demanding career fields.

“This is nothing more than religious harassment,” said Canzoneri-Fitzpatrick. “As the parent of four children who attended religious schools, I am offended by this overreach by the State’s Department of Education, and I will fight against this unwarranted attack on private schools, especially our yeshivas, in the State Senate.”

“I am a retired police officer,” stated Coll. “Protection of people’s freedoms and liberties was at the core of my career in public service. I will fight this assault on our way of life and freedom of choice when it comes to education.”

“Providing a high-quality secular education is critically important to what we do here at Hebrew Academy of Long Beach,” noted Richard Altabe of HALB. “As religious Jewish Americans, we sincerely appreciate the freedom to raise our families in the traditions of our faith, and our educational institutions provide the foundation for those values. We cannot relinquish control of our curricula or selection of our teaching staff to any government agency.”

Around the Community Preparing for Yomim Noraim at Yeshiva Ateres Eitz Chaim

The talmidim of Yeshiva Ateres Eitz Chaim learned about the minhag and deeper meaning of Tashlich followed by saying the tefillos at the ocean. Incredibly, the ocean water is one of the things we can connect to that was created from Maaseh Bereishis – the beginning of Creation. Talmidim then learned the secrets behind the minhag of Kapparos during the Aseres Yemei Teshuva. Some talmidim used live chickens, while others opted to use money. This past Friday was week 3 of FM Home Loans 5 Towns Flag Football. We had an excellent, intense, and competitive week of games.

In the Pre 1A division, under the direction of Rabbi Jeremy Fine, the boys practiced their offensive skills, and they truly are on the road to being superstars.

In the 1st grade division, the Broncos defeated the Patriots. And the Jets defeated the Giants with Eliyah Mayer’s all-star touchdown.

In the 2nd grade division, the Giants tied with the Eagles with amazing catching and communication by Judah Farkas. The Jets defeated the Patriots. And the Vikings tied with the Broncos.

In the 3rd and 4th grade division, the Broncos defeated the Jets. The Saints defeated the Vikings with an amazing interception that led to a touchdown, by Caleb Small. The Falcons defeated the Steelers. The Commanders defeated the Packers. The Eagles tied with the Seahawks. The Giants and Texans tied. The Raiders defeated the Patriots. And the Dolphins defeated the Panthers with Ari Laufer’s amazing TDP.

In the 5th and 6th grade division, the Patriots defeated the Seahawks. The Packers tied with the Dolphins. The Jets defeated the Steelers with Daren Stern’s amazing short catches. The Broncos defeated the Giants. The Saints defeated the Panthers with Ari Feldman’s amazing consistent flag pulls. The Falcons defeated the Vikings. And the Eagles defeated the Raiders.

In the 7th and 8th grade division, the Eagles defeated the Giants. The Commanders defeated the Texans. The Patriots defeated the Vikings with Judah Israel’s insane back-to-back touchdowns. And the Broncos defeated the Jets with Yehuda Shilo’s amazing short catches and flag pulls.

YOSS ECC learned all about the postal system, as they mailed their Shana Tova card and interviewed Al, the mailman.

SKA’s Day of Inspiration

Shalom Task Force’s Legal Services Now at the Queens Family Justice Center

By: Rosie Ash and Arielle Rosman

There was a visible air of excitement on Sunday, September 18, as students, mothers and alumnae of the Stella K. Abraham High School for Girls family boarded the bus for SKA’s all-day event, Elul Day Of Inspiration: A Teshuva Journey. The trip emphasized the opportunity to “see Hashem in all places and at all times” and certainly lived up to its promise.

Chaperoned by Mrs. Elisheva Kaminetsky, SKA’s Principal, Jewish Studies, Mrs. Shira Englander, Dean of Students, Rabbi Isaac Rice, Torah She’baal Peh Department Chair, Mrs. Paghit Ralbag, limudei chodesh teacher and Israel Guidance, and Ms. Sydney Daitch, limudei kodesh teacher and Student Council advisor, the day began with a trip to a beautiful shul modeled after the Baal Shem Tov’s shul in Europe. There, the world-renowned Rabbi Y.Y. Jacobson inspired the crowd by comparing the Torah to song while incorporating the idea of Teshuva. After a delicious lunch from Hava Java, the group was so fortunate to have the meaningful experience of visiting the Kever of the Ribnitzer Rebbe. After learning a bit about his life, including his unwavering love for all types of Russian Jews and the reason so many Jews come to his kever, all those present got the zechut to daven at the kever.

The inspiration continued in Teaneck where the group went to hear from the mother of Dani Morris, a”h, who died in the Meron tragedy. Mrs. Mirlana Morris, who spoke in the Beis Medrash that is currently being renovated in memory of her son, explained to the group how she was able to “move forward” after the tragedy that she suffered. Mrs. Morris inspired the group while saying that tefillah and emunah were and continue to be the impetus for her getting up and out of bed each morning.

The final stop of the day was Yad Leah. While there, the SKA students, faculty, alumnae and parents were so fortunate as to hear what Yad Leah does on a daily basis and to receive a tour of the Yad Leah warehouse. Following the tour, Rabbi Yaakov Glasser gave over a phenomenal speech where he explained the importance of tzedakah for both the person giving the charity and the one who is receiving it.

To end off the moving and inspirational day, the group went to Mrs. Kaminetsky’s home for dinner. Everyone who joined SKA on this meaningful Teshuva Journey received Pathway to Prayer: A Translation and Explanation of all the Amidah prayers of Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur. This siddur will assist all those who joined to continue to be inspired throughout the Yamim Noraim.

Thank you to all those who made this phenomenal day happen!

STF has been serving victims of domestic violence in the Jewish community for almost thirty years. STF is excited and proud to expand its work and partner with the Queens Family Justice Center (QFJC)! At the QFJC, survivors of domestic and gender-based violence and their children can connect to organizations that provide case management, housing and benefits assistance, economic empowerment, counseling, civil and criminal legal assistance. Bringing together professionals from all areas creates a collaborative approach making it easier for survivors to get help from wherever they need it and provide “one-stop” services and support to survivors. All are welcome regardless of language, income, gender identity, or immigration status.

Together with other civil legal service agencies, STF will offer remote civil legal services on divorce, custody/visitation, and child and spousal support twice monthly at the QFJC. An experienced attorney will be available to give counsel and advice, brief services and full representation for qualified survivors of domestic and gender-based violence.

Shalom Task Force’s Legal Department provides free, confidential legal services to victim-survivors of domestic and dating abuse, specializing in the Jewish community. Sarah’s Voice empowers victim-survivors through comprehensive, culturally responsive, compassionate and effective legal assistance. They provide ongoing case assistance, extensive safety planning and referrals for social services, mental health, public benefits, tax support, housing and immigration. Attorneys also assist clients through the Beit Din Jewish court system. Partnership with the QFJC allows STF to expand its reach to the Jewish community in Queens.

The NYC Family Justice Center, Queens, is located at 126-02 82nd Avenue and can be reached at 718-5754545. To reach STF Legal Department (aka Sarah’s Voice) directly, call or text: 212.742.1110 for an intake, or email legalintake@shalomtaskforce.org.

STF is grateful to its Queen’s based elected officials for their ongoing support that makes STF’s services possible including: Assemblymember Stacey Pfeffer Amato, Assemblymember Daniel Rosenthal, Assemblymember Nily Rozic, Assemblymember Andrew Hevesi, Assemblymember Weprin, Senator Addabbo, Senator Savisky, and Councilmember Gennaro.

By Gabriel Geller –Royal Wine/Kedem

Sukkos and Simchas Torah are fast approaching, and once again, it is time to stock up on the best and most delicious wines to rejoice over the yomim tovim properly. Let’s get ready to celebrate about 20 meals, most of which in the sukkah with our honored guests.

Follow, dare I say, some wise advice, and try making kiddush on sparkling wine. Rosé wine is always a refreshing way to start a special meal. Unless you live in Alaska, this past summer was scorching hot. A lot of rosé wines are gone from the stores’ shelves, yet some are still available, including the Château Roubine Lion & Dragon 2020, a classed growth from the world-renown Côtes de Provence region in France. You read the vintage right – 2020. Many rosé wines are better enjoyed as young as possible, but exceptions exist. This wine is one of them. Fermented and aged in French oak barrels to add structure and complexity, this supremely elegant wine boasts fragrant aromas and flavors of summer fruits such as peaches and apricots, as well as notes of red cherries and strawberries. Its well-integrated acidity makes it a refined match to some starters such as lox or fried eggplants with tahini.

Sukkos is often a challenging time since the weather is somewhat unpredictable. This year, at least on the east coast of the USA, it is reasonable to predict that most nights will be somewhat chilly. Not everyone lives on the east coast, and those celebrating yom tov in Florida, Eretz Yisroel, or even Dubai would probably prefer to stick with refreshing white or rosé wines. However, my advice here is to choose wines that will be both tasty and easy to enjoy with the food, regardless of the weather.

A fine example of white wine to enjoy this year is the Psâgot Chardonnay 2021, a refined Israeli white wine made from grapes grown in the Jerusalem Mountains. A wine with many surprises, combining delicate flavors of golden apples and lemon with refreshing acidity and a creamy, nutty finish. It will considerably enhance the meal if served cold, with some baked salmon, or just slightly chilled if sipped alongside a veal neck roast.

The wines of Bordeaux are well-known and recognized for their understated elegance. The wines hailing from the Saint Julien appellation on the left bank of the Gironde River are no exception. The sommeliers and Masters of Wine characterize them as fragrant, firm, and sophisticated. Pavillon de Léoville Poyferré 2020 is the second wine of the famous Château Léoville Poyferré. Unlike its “big brother,” which requires lots of patience to reach its optimal drinking maturity, the Pavillon is supple while approachable relatively young, drinking well in the first years following its release. However, it is certainly capable of aging for about a decade. This wine has a medium to full-bodied mouthfeel with a silky texture; its black and blueberry aromas and earthy undertones will make it the star of the evening.

Mediterranean wines can pair with a large array of dishes and can be served in any weather. Please welcome and discover a prestigious estate from Tuscany to the kosher wine scene, which just released its first kosher wine, a Super Tuscan, which is quite adequate for a meal in the Sukkah or on Simchas Torah. The Villa Mangi-

acane Magnificus

2017 is an Italian blend made with estategrown Sangiovese and Merlot grapes and was aged 12 months in oak barrels. The winery wanted to wait until the wine would be ready to drink. Therefore, the winery aged it in its cellars before releasing it just in time for Yom Tov. Sipped throughout a chilly evening with an osso bucco or with lunch on a mild afternoon with a charcuterie platter, this is a wine that keeps opening up, revealing layers of eye-opening, delicately fruity, and savory flavors and aromas.

Northern California is not a Mediterranean country, although it is true that some of its subregions have a similar climate to parts of Italy, Spain, and Israel. The Paso Robles AVA (American Viticultural Area) is where Herzog Wine Cellars sources their outstanding ripe and lush Cabernet Sauvignon grapes. Winemaker Alicia Wilbur ferments the must of those grapes to craft the juicy, flavor-packed Herzog Variations Be-leaf Cabernet Sauvignon 2020, a CCOF-certified organic wine with no added sulfites. Serve it very slightly chilled if it’s a bit warm out. If the weather is cooler, serve it at standard red wine drinking temperature (60-65°F). Let the celebrations begin. Chag Sameach! L’chaim!

On Tuesday, September 20, hundreds of people gathered in Hempstead Town Hall for a hearing on the proposed transit-oriented developments in North Lawrence and in Inwood. The main room, as well as a side room and a tent, were filled with residents for the hearing.

The town hall meeting was led by TOH Supervisor Donald X. Clavin, who noted that the large turnout was indicative of the importance of the issue for Town residents. He was amazed that so many people came out in opposition to these developments. When asked who was in favor of the proposed developments, only two people – out of the hundreds who attended – raised their hands.

Clavin noted that the zoning was put into effect by the previous supervisor. As such, he put together the town hall to hear from residents. Other elected officials came to the meeting as well, including Leg. Howard Kopel, Leg. Denise Ford, Village of Lawrence Mayor Alex Edelman, Village of Lawrence Trustee Paris Popack, Village of Lawrence Trustee Eli Kutner, and the Deputy Mayor of Woodsburgh.

Town residents spoke from their hearts when given the opportunity to address the assemblage. One resident spoke of how traffic is at its peak in the Five Towns. She witnessed numerous cars driving on sidewalks to escape the traffic build-up on Broadway and make room for emergency vehicles. One person said that his five-year-old son was hit by a car trying to avoid the traffic. Another resident spoke of seeing car doors being shorn off by drivers. Others mentioned the difficulties of getting out of their driveways during the busy hours of the day – they end up missing crucial appointments and their children come late to school.

More importantly, the roads leading out of town are choked with cars, requiring drivers to sit in cars for far too long just to leave town. In case of emergency, people are essentially trapped.

For two hours, residents spoke passionately about their concerns. Traffic and safety were foremost on their minds, but many mentioned that the infrastructure of the area cannot possibly meet the needs of hundreds more residents in such a small area. Residents noted that they receive notices from the water company and electric company to limit usage. There is a lack of coordination between the different villages in the area in terms of development; as such, the suburban feel of the community is beginning to erode.

At the conclusion of the meeting, Clavin announced that there will be a sixmonth moratorium on the new developments. Worryingly, the moratorium does not include the Townhouse/Rowhouse Overlay District, which is 30 acres.

Did you know? The first hurricane of the year is given a name beginning with the letter “A.” Did you know? Hurricanes in the Pacific Ocean are known as typhoons.

The beginning of the school year is a wonderful time for students and teachers to connect and bond in all different types of ways. Grades 1-5 had their first class trips this past week and had the opportunity to connect with one another through fun and exciting outings. Grades 4 and 5 had their fall trip last Tuesday at Adventures Park Long Island. The students had a full day of climbing, zip lining, hiking, and bonding with friends and teachers. They tested their physical strength, overcame fears, and cheered on their classmates.

“I was scared at first,” said Mia Akilov, grade 5. “But I am glad I pushed myself and did not take an early exit. I had a lot of fun with my friends, and I hope I can do it again someday.”

The trip was a great reminder for both students and faculty as we begin a new school year, that when you put your mind to something, you can achieve greatness.

On Wednesday, grades 1-3 got really prepared for Rosh Hashana with an adventure to an apple orchard. The students traveled to Apple Rich Orchards for a great day of hayrides, petting and feeding farm animals, and of course…apple picking!

Each student came home with their own big bag of apples and even bigger smiles on their faces. Thank you to Mrs. Shirley Pourad-Kaikov for organizing and managing the trips and to all the teachers and chaperones for helping to give our students a great day.

Assemblywoman Stacey Pheffer Amato spoke with the captain of the 101st Precinct and local security officials to discuss heightened security for the Jewish community in regard to the upcoming Jewish holidays. Rosh Hashana and Yom Kippur have in years past had a clear and present police presence, and this year will be no different.

The Kosher Chef Alliance

Sunday, September 18, marked a very special occasion. For the first time ever, The Kosher Chef Alliance held its Inaugural Reunion in Lakewood, NJ.

The Kosher Chef Alliance (KCA) was created in March 2018 by Naphtali and Mordy Sobel, FarRockaway natives. The Sobel brothers, who are dynamic kosher chefs, saw the need to create a very important resource amongst the kosher chef community. The mission of the KCA is a networking tool for trade professionals to share recipes and ideas, offer and receive advice, share kashrus and halachic information, post employment opportunities, and so much more. Presently, KCA boasts more than 270 chefs around the world, whose passion for cooking is boundless! The positions held by the men and women of the KCA include schools, camps, Passover programs, private chefs, caterers and restaurants, as well as health and medical facilities. Over 70 members of the Alliance attended the Inaugural event, which took place at the Lakewood Firehouse on New Hampshire Avenue. Hosted by Yosef Mutterperl of Lakewood, NJ, and Beth Kaplan of Brooklyn, NY, the Reunion Committee planned and prepared an absolutely delicious event! The Committee included Mordy Sobel, Naphtali Sobel, Elliott Bookman, Yitzy Drebin, Shimi Ehrenthal, Nachi Elbaum, Yudi Kranz, Yisroel Reznik, Yacov Tatosky, and Chaim Yanofsky. One of the highlights of the evening was the opportunity to network with leading vendors in the kosher food arena. We were joined by Abe and Shneur Stephansky of Kosherline/Fishingline, Moshe and Yossie Bineth and Avrumy Schweitzer of Crusters, and Yiddy Lederman of Devash Milk. A special thank you to the vendors who provided us with boundless samples! As heard many times from Mordy Sobel, The Kosher Chef Alliance is “a force to be reckoned with!” We look forward to a KCA website and more events in the future.

The month of Elul has been a very busy one academically and spiritually at the Stella K. Abraham High School for Girls. Classes are in full swing, and there’s been much prominence given to the upcoming chagim with immersive shiurim, workshops and activities. The programs offered are varied in content and medium so that each student can choose what speaks to her, giving unique opportunities to enrich one’s Yom Tov and Aseret Yemei Teshuvah experience.

One of the earliest programs, SKA’s Elul Day of Inspiration: a Teshuva Journey, held on Sunday, September 18, was a moving and inspirational start to the Yomim Tovim.

Underscoring the power of the Yomim Noraim, SKA’s LEV initiative (Living Enhanced By Values) for this year was launched on Tuesday, September 20, on the beautiful grounds of the school. The five components of the initiative, which are so fitting at this time of year – MACS (Modesty Awareness Committee by Students, TTYL (Turning Tefillah Into Your Life), PAUSE (Pausing and Understanding Speech’s Effects), SPARKS (Sparks of Torah Lishmah) and LIVING WITH CODE (promoting acdut and respect) – were once again introduced to the SKA students.

The 9th Grade Simanim Cooking Demo, the 10th Grade Tisch, the 11th Grade Rosh Hashana Round Table, and the 12th Grade Oneg and Shiur, each a part of the Pre-Rosh Hashana Grade-Wide evening program held in students’ and faculty members’ homes on Thursday evening, September 23, ensured that every SKA student had a notable experience before the chag. Even the 9th and 12th Grade Big Sister-Little Sister event held earlier that day contributed to the bein adam l’chavero emphasis felt in the school.

Due to its increasing popularity, this year’s SKA’s emotional Tefillah on the Beach had to be held on two days, Thursday and Friday, September 29 and 30, rather than the usual one. The SKA students shared their reflections on tefillah at the breakfast enjoyed after davening. Teshuvah workshops, a heartfelt pre-Rosh Hashanah address from Rabbi Gideon Black, head of NCSY New York, Hatarat Nedarim with a tzedakah campaign for Renewal kidney donations and a meaningful fast event on Tzom Gedalia with a shiur and volunteer food package preparation were among some of the outstanding programs offered. Ongoing shiurim and workshops on shemirat halashon and Yom Tov tefillot were held throughout the school weeks.

A special Shabbat Shuva inspiration with multiple shiurim for students, alumnae and mothers on Shabbat, October 1, at HALB elementary school and satellite locations in Brooklyn, Queens, West Hempstead and Great Neck, gave insight to the potency of teshuvah.

“Understanding the Machzor,” SKA’s growing library of short screencasts and audio files created by Rabbi Isaac Rice, Torah She’baal Peh Department Chair, has continued to elevate the HALB community’s understanding of the tefillot for Rosh Hashana and Yom Kippur. The new informative mini sessions added each year have certainly enhanced our yom tov experience.

SKA wishes students, faculty and and administration together with klal Yisroel, a gmar chasima tova and a wonderful chag Sukkot!

At the SKA Big Sister-Little Sister event

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It is never too early to instill in children the importance of being civic-minded. On September 21, alongside hundreds of police officers, politicians, journalists, community liaisons and representatives, ten grade 8 students represented their yeshiva with maturity and poise. Each year, members of the NYPD hold a “High Holiday” briefing on precautionary and additional safety measures for the Jewish community. This year, Police Commissioner Keechant L. Sewell and Mayor Eric Adams hosted a briefing to discuss the connection between the NYPD and the NYC Jewish communities on safety issues in the multitude of Jewish communities, especially the safety issues present during the Yomiim Noraim. The students and chaperones were afforded the opportunity to speak for a few minutes with Councilmember Lynn Shulman, who represents Forest Hills and Rego Park where a large percentage of YCQ students and their families reside.

The briefing was led off as Hon. Keechant L. Sewell, police commissioner, discussed the increase in police presence and patrols in Jewish neighborhoods, especially during this time of the year.

The commissioner was followed by words of encouragement, wisdom, and a bit of humor from Rabbi Dr. Alvin Kass, NYPD Chief Chaplain. He discussed how people have distorted perspectives on life. If we consider the past few years, it is understandable. The students connected to this as they, too, have lived through and been affected by a deadly pandemic, ongoing public health issues, social upheaval, and economic inflation.

Mayor Eric Adams spoke for a few moments acknowledging that NYC has the largest number of Jewish residents outside Israel. He coined New York City the Tel Aviv of America. He spoke on how he understands the importance of these holidays and NYC is preparing to keep NYC safe. He asked that communities need to be vigilant. “If you see something, say something, so we can partner to be safe.”

The students then got to hear from Deputy Inspector Andrew Arias, the commanding officer of the hate crimes task force, who noted some startling statistics that put in perspective for the students and all in attendance the importance of lockdown drills and police notification of suspicious activity, including antisemitic graffiti and postings on social media including Tik Toks.

The program closed with an intelligence briefing by Kelli Foy, intelligence research specialist, NYPD Intelligence Bureau.

When grade 8 student Akiva Steinman was asked if he thought the NYPD High Holiday briefing was important, he said, “This was so meaningful. I liked how the NYPD showed how they really care about us and will do what they can to protect us and keep us safe.”

Around the Community HANC Sophomore Annual Breakfast Stepped up Public Safety Patrols Around Jewish Houses of Worship in Advance of High Holy Days

On Tuesday, September 13, the sophomore class at HANC High School participated in a meaningful breakfast and program. Students were privileged to hear from Rabbi Yitzy Haber, popular speaker and owner of Camp Machaneh Yisroel, hosted at Yeshiva of South Shore. Rabbi Haber shared his personal journey through life in a thought-provoking and entertaining lecture. Rabbi Haber’s perseverance, good humor, and emunah and bitachon in Hashem were certainly inspiring, and left students with an uplifting message of hope and gratitude. A lively question and answer session followed, with enthusiastic student participation.

In conjunction with Rabbi Haber’s presentation, the sophomores were treated to a delicious breakfast, prepared by Benny’s Food Court, which was enjoyed by all.

Thank you to mechanchim, Rabbi Shimon Chrein and Morah Leigh Henoch, for organizing this meaningful program. As members of the Jewish faith around the world and across Hempstead Town prepare for the High Holy Days, Hempstead Town Supervisor Don Clavin, Councilman Anthony D’Esposito and Councilwoman Melissa Miller announced stepped up public safety patrols in the vicinity of Jewish houses of worship. The patrols, consisting of staff from the township’s Department of Public Safety, will serve as a palpable display of Hempstead Town’s zero-tolerance policy for hatred or prejudice in any form, even as anti-Semitic incidents continue to occur in greater numbers across the United States.

“The Town of Hempstead will not sit idly by while incidents of anti-Semitism continue to occur with greater frequency across all corners of the country,” said Clavin. “We are staying in close contact with Jewish faith leaders as we enter this special period of religious observance, and we will work diligently to ensure that Jewish neighbors are able to celebrate the High Holy Days in peace here in our hometown.”

The stepped-up patrols build on the Town of Hempstead’s existing public safety infrastructure that sees houses of worship and other community places of importance kept watch by the township’s patrol teams. The increased Town of Hempstead public safety deployment comes on the heels of multiple anti-Semitic incidents that struck the township, including the anonymous distribution of conspiracy-laden, anti-Jewish flyers and hateful rhetoric spray painted on signage at Hempstead Town Hall – attacks made to challenge the peaceful coexistence of peoples long known as a hallmark of Hempstead Town.

“These stepped-up public safety patrols are the latest chapter in the Town of Hempstead’s battle against anti-Semitism,” said D’Esposito. “Those who wish ill on others, especially during this period of High Holy Days, should know that the Town of Hempstead is working day and night to thwart their diabolical plots, and we will work tirelessly to safeguard our Jewish neighbors so they may observe this time in peace.”

“As a member of the Jewish faith myself, I am acutely aware of the importance of guarding against those who seek to disrupt our observance of these sacred holy days,” said Miller. “I will continue working with my colleagues to ensure the safety of the Jewish community, so that they may observe their faith and raise their families peacefully here in the Town of Hempstead.” It has been widely acknowledged that anti-Semitic incidents are increasing in both their numbers and ferocity in recent times. Indeed, members of the Jewish faith continue to be subjected to a disturbing number of hate-filled attacks. By proportion of the population, Jews are the number one target for hate crimes in the United States. What’s more, these attacks are on the rise. More than 2,715 instances of Jew-hatred, including assaults, were reported in 2021 – constituting a 34% increase from 2020.

Rav Yaakov Moshe Hillel, Rosh Yeshivat Ahavat Shalom, visited Yeshiva Darchei Torah

An Uplifting End to 5782

Shulamith High School ended 5782 on a high, as the Rosh Hashana Yom Iyun last Erev Shabbos left the girls uplifted for the approaching Yamim Noraim. The final day of school was devoted entirely to Rosh Hashana inspiration, with a program that balanced the exhilaration of our mission to be mamlich Hashem, with the seriousness and somber tone of the Yom Hadin.

The program began following davening, with words of encouragement by Principal Munk, emphasizing the opportunity and joy of connecting to Hashem through tefillah, as opposed to the heaviness and fear it often accompanies. She then led the students in the recitation of hataras nedarim, performed in front of a beis din comprised of three neighborhood rabbanim and esteemed SHS rebbeim, Rabbi Berlin, Rabbi Blumstein, and Rabbi Muskat.

In order to gain a deeper appreciation of our unique Rosh Hashana davening, the students were split into small groups, each of which enjoyed four sessions during the Machzor Round Robin, gaining insight into various aspects of tefillah from an assortment of teachers. Mrs. Mirlana Morris, mother of one of the kedoshei Meron, Donny Morris, poignantly spoke of the emunah to which she clings as a lifeline, navigating the challenge of balancing grief with growth and simcha.

Inspired by her powerful message, the students then joined in singing Ani Maamin and various songs that set the tone for yom tov in a backyard kumsitz. Finally, the program shifted gears, as the whole SHS joyously prepared for Shabbos with dancing and a challah bake. Mrs. Charlene Aminoff stressed the importance of the mitzvah of taking challah, sharing her personal journey through which she acquired this mitzvah and the foundational role it has played in her family life for almost two decades.

The Yom Iyun ended on a note of exaltation, with all participants ready to begin the new year in the right headspace.

Students and Survivors Reunite

Shulamith eighth graders Abby Eisenberg, Evie Miller, Racheli Kupfer, Chana Rubin, Kayli Madowicz, and Bella Klein joined the Chaverim group of Holocaust survivors for a pre-Rosh Hashana gathering at the JCC. They helped serve lunch, danced and schmoozed with the seniors. It was the first time our students were able to visit since Covid-19, and the girls were really excited to reunite with Holocaust survivors on Erev Rosh Hashana. What a beautiful way to bring in the chag!

Around the Community If You’ve Been Asked To Serve As Trustee, Here’s What You Should Know

A High-Tech Career in Israel – Less Than a Year Away

By Monet Binder, Esq.

If a family member or friend has asked you to serve as trustee for their trust either during their life, or upon their death, it’s a big honor— this means they consider you among the most honest, reliable, and responsible people they know.

That said, serving as a trustee is not only a great honor, but it is also a major responsibility, and the role is definitely not for everyone. Serving as a trustee entails a broad array of duties, and you are both ethically and legally required to properly perform those duties or you could face liability for not doing so.

In the end, your responsibility as a trustee will vary greatly depending on the size of the estate, the type of assets in a trust, how many beneficiaries there are, and document terms. Although you don’t have to take the job, you might actually enjoy the opportunity to serve, so long as you understand what’s expected of you.

A Trustee’s Primary Duties

Although every trust is different, serving as trustee comes with a few core requirements. These duties primarily involve accounting for, managing, and distributing the trust’s assets to its named beneficiaries as a fiduciary. Being a fiduciary means you act on behalf of the trust’s creator and beneficiaries, always putting their interests above your own. You have a legal obligation to act in a trustworthy and honest manner, while providing the highest standard of care in executing your duties. If you fail to abide by your duties as a fiduciary, you could face legal liability.

Some of your key responsibilities as trustee include: • Identifying and protecting the trust assets • Following trust’s terms for management and distribution of the assets • Hiring and overseeing an accounting firm to file income and estate taxes for the trust • Communicating regularly with beneficiaries • Bringing in the right investment management team to manage the trust assets • Being scrupulously honest, highly organized, and keeping detailed records of all transactions

• Closing the trust and distributing the assets when the trust terms specify

Experience NOT Required

It’s important to point out that being a trustee does NOT require you to be an expert in law, finance, taxes, or any other field related to trust administration. In fact, trustees are not only allowed to seek outside support from professionals in these areas, they are strongly encouraged to do so, and the trust estate will pay for you to hire the support you need.

So, even though serving as a trustee may seem like a daunting proposition, you won’t have to handle the job alone. And you can be paid to serve as trustee of a trust should you choose to accept the role. That said, many trustees, particularly close family members, often choose to forgo any payment beyond what’s required to cover the trust expenses, if that’s possible. Compensation as a trustee will depend on your personal circumstances, your relationship with the trust creator and beneficiaries, as well as the nature of the assets in the trust.

We’re Here To Help

Because serving as a trustee is such a serious responsibility, you should meet with us for help deciding whether or not to accept the role. We will offer you a clear, unbiased assessment of what’s required of you based on the specific trust’s terms, assets, and beneficiaries.

And if you do choose to serve, it’s even more important that you have someone who can assist you with the trust’s administration. We will guide you stepby-step throughout the entire process, ensuring you properly fulfill all of the trust creator’s wishes without exposing the beneficiaries—or yourself—to any unnecessary risks. Contact us today at 718.514.7575 to learn more. Monet Binder, Esq., has her practice in Queens and Brooklyn, New York, dedicated to protecting families, their legacies and values. All halachic documents are approved by the Bais Havaad Halacha Center in Lakewood, under the direction of Rabbi Dovid Grossman and the guidance of Harav Shmuel Kaminetsky, shlita, as well as other leading halachic authorities.

Aliyah is an amazing, life changing venture. Employment when making Aliyah doesn’t have to be an obstacle. Success is dependent on a career path that allows opportunities for growth and promotion. The Israeli high-tech industry provides rewarding, interesting and lucrative employment with plenty of room for upward mobility.

As the start-up nation, Israel is a global leader in innovation and hightech. The most prestigious and wellknown multinational technology companies have either been established in, or have divisions in, Israel. There are over 6,000 start-ups – the most startups per capita worldwide outside the U.S. Currently, over 320,000 people in Israel are employed in the high-tech industry and the demand is only growing.

Infinity Labs R&D is Israel’s premier software research and development center trailblazing the science of learning and development of collaborative platforms. Now, in partnership with the Jewish Agency, Infinity Labs R&D is paving the way for career empowerment for new immigrants (Olim).

The Aliyah High-Tech Program provides Olim with collaborative, autodidactic technology skills and dream job placement in just 8 months. The first four months of the journey take place in the U.S., followed by an additional four months in vibrant, greater Tel Aviv with parallel Hebrew language (Ulpan) studies, and competitive placement in a hightech company.

The program is open to college graduates and professionals with a background in Computer Science, STEM, or those with an analytical mindset. Applicants undergo an extensive interview and assessment process to determine suitability. All participants are eligible for a full scholarship because Infinity Labs R&D invests in their future partners. a year, participants of the intensive program receive cutting-edge, high-impact skills with the hands-on experience needed to successfully compete in the real world. The secret sauce to their graduates’ continued success is in the Infinity Labs R&D’s Mentored Social Learning methodology. Graduates have the unique capability to master new technologies and languages quickly, along with the soft skills needed to accelerate their career.

Nathan, an accomplished full stack developer, came to Infinity Labs R&D with a BA and MA in psychology. “At my age and with a small baby at home, I wasn’t in a position to complete another degree,” he shared. “Infinity Labs R&D gave me the opportunity to become a software developer in a relatively short time, but without sacrificing the depth of the material and understanding the foundation of the profession. Today, after being accepted to a cutting-edge position at an international communications company, I realize how much the knowledge and methods I acquired at Infinity Labs R&D benefited me in learning new technologies.”

Mia is a software developer at Amazon. “As a new immigrant, I really feel like Infinity Labs R&D opened a new page in my life. I felt far more confident after taking the program at Infinity Labs R&D, and the proof? Now I have a great profession with a high salary, in a renowned company. I highly recommend Infinity Labs R&D. It changed my life.”

Infinity Labs R&D’s network of connections in Israel’s high-tech market allows participants to enjoy a wide range of exciting employment opportunities and continued support throughout their careers.

This exclusive program is now open for registration, with the next group slated to begin in November. For a limited time only, you can refer a friend to the program and win a free trip to Israel. For more information on the program, registration, or to refer a friend, visit https://lp.infinitylabs.co.il/ aliyah-high-tech-program

Published by ArtScroll/Mesorah Publications

By Rabbi Avraham Yeshayahu Shteinman

In the Kanievsky home, preparations for Succos started literally right after Pesach, as Rebbetzin Batsheva Kanievsky put the leftover matzah on the side, to be ground into flour that would be used when she baked challah for Succos. An esrog was chosen two months before the holiday, and Rav Chaim Kanievsky himself would go to pick the s’chach. Then, as the Yom Tov started, the lofty levels of rejoicing and dveikus began.

We can no longer see Rav Chaim’s radiant face as he sat, surrounded by his succah walls, but we can feel the happiness and the kedushah through his writings about the Yom Tov, and, of course, through stories that capture his total immersion in the mitzvos of Succos. Rav Chaim Kanievsky on Succos is a brandnew volume written by Rav Avraham Yeshaya Shteinman, grandson of both Rav Chaim and Rav Aharon Leib Shteinman. It includes: • Rav Chaim’s halachic rulings and his customs on Succos, the arba minim, Chol Hamoed, Hoshanah Rabbah, Shemini Atzeres, Simchas Torah and Sefer Koheles. • Insights on many aspects of the Yom Tov, including the Succos tefillos, the “mitzvah” of joy, and dozens of other topics related to the holiday, perfect to be shared with family and friends in your succah. • Warm and personal stories of the Chazon Ish, the Steipler Gaon, Rav Chaim and the Rebbetzin, Rav Shach, Rav Elyashiv, Rav Michel Yehudah Lefkowitz and other luminaries.

Rav Chaim Kanievsky on Succos will enhance your Yom Tov – and increase your joy in this “time of our rejoicing.”

The following is a brief excerpt from the new book, a fascinating segment about the bracha of Leisheiv BaSuccah. • • • • •

Leisheiv BaSuccah

• The Vilna Gaon’s custom: Rav Chaim Kanievsky followed the custom of the Vilna Gaon to recite leisheiv basuccah even when merely sitting in the succah without eating, but as an added precaution, it is proper to eat something, so that the berachah can be recited according to all opinions. • Leaving to daven: Rav Chaim said that when he leaves the succah to daven Minchah or Maariv, he does not recite a new berachah upon returning to the succah, since those are brief prayers, and he does not go far from the house. Shacharis, however, is a lengthy prayer, so after returning from Shacharis, he does recite a new berachah. He added that the Chazon Ish, too, did not recite a new berachah after leaving the succah to daven, except when it was for an extended period. Rav Chaim followed the same practice. However, Rav Chaim davened in the Lederman Shul near his house, whereas the Chazon Ish davened with a minyan inside his house. • Mezonos second: Rav Chaim said that if one eats mezonos in the succah, and does not follow the custom of the Vilna Gaon to recite the blessing of leisheiv basuccah merely over sitting in the succah, he should recite the berachah of leisheiv basuccah first and the berachah of borei minei mezonos second.

Rav Eliyahu Mann related that he once recited the berachah of borei minei mezonos in Rav Chaim’s succah and only then recited leisheiv basuccah, prompting Rav Chaim to note that his own custom was to say leisheiv basuccah before borei minei mezonos, since some hold that one does not recite leisheiv basuccah over mezonos, and reciting it after the berachah would therefore be considered an interruption (Mishnah Berurah 639:16). • The Havdalah quandary: Rav Chaim said that one who enters the succah only to recite Havdalah faces a halachic quandary of whether to recite leisheiv basuccah, and it is therefore proper to eat something afterward, in which case he may recite leisheiv basuccah when he makes Havdalah.