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October 26, 2023

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The Jewish Home | OCTOBER 26, 2023

OCTOBER 26, 2023 | The Jewish Home

The Jewish Home | OCTOBER 26, 2023

OCTOBER 26, 2023 | The Jewish Home

The Jewish Home | OCTOBER 26, 2023

Dear Readers,

watched a clip of an interview this week with an Israeli mother displaced from her home. She was recounting what happened to her family on October 7, when terrorists entered her town. Natalie said that she and her children hid in the safe room in her home when she realized that the city was under attack. At one point, she ventured out into the kitchen and grabbed knives, handing them to her children. But then, she knew that the terrorists were coming closer, and she turned to the only One Who could save her. “I raised my eyes to the Borei Olam. I said, ‘It’s me, my children and my Creator.’” And at that moment, when she saw the terrorists coming closer, she promised Hashem that in the future, her Shabbos will be a Shabbos of kedusha. “And at that exact moment, that I took it upon myself, at that exact moment, the terrorists passed over my house,” Natalie said. “I don’t have any other explanation for it.” The next day, Natalie and her children left their town of Sderot. The next Shabbos, as she kept her vow to the One Above, a Qassam rocket fell on her empty home, straight into her bedroom. “And I thank Hashem that I am here. That I’m alive, that I’m breathing, and that my children are alive.” Watching a video of such emunah in the One Above is breathtaking. Although she may not have kept Shabbos initially, she instinctively knew that the only One Who could save her was

her Creator. And she knew that connecting with Him, reaching out to Him, was the only way that she would be able to survive. As Jews, when we go to battle, we are told we need to arm ourselves with two things: we need to prepare our ammunition, train our soldiers, and ready our tanks. We need to go over war plans, craft strategy, and implement combat tactics. But if we only rely on those physical weapons, we would be lost. As we prepare for battle, we need to arm ourselves with prayer and Torah learning. We need to reconnect – in every way – to our Creator. We need to strengthen ourselves in our emunah and in our faith in the One Above. Indeed, any time that Israel has won battles and wars it was only because Hashem was with them. It was He Who directed their bullets and their tanks. It was He Who helped guide their decisions and strategies. It is of no use for other nations to study our war strategies, because they don’t have a General like we have. It is up to all of us to prepare for battle. We may not be holding the guns or wearing the bulletproof vests. But it is up to us to reconnect and restrengthen our faith and our connection with our Creator. It is up to us to rededicate ourselves to performing each mitzvah. It is up to us to intensify our prayers and our learning. Because that is how a Jew goes to battle – and succeeds. Wishing you a wonderful week, Shoshana

Yitzy Halpern, PUBLISHER

publisher@fivetownsjewishhome.com

Yosef Feinerman, MANAGING EDITOR ads@fivetownsjewishhome.com

Shoshana Soroka, EDITOR

editor@fivetownsjewishhome.com

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Shabbos Zemanim

Weekly Weather | October 27 – November 2

Friday, October 27 Parshas Lech – Lecha

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71° 60°

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Candle Lighting: 5:40 pm Shabbos Ends: 6:39 pm Rabbeinu Tam: 7:09 pm

OCTOBER 26, 2023 | The Jewish Home

The Jewish Home | OCTOBER 26, 2023

Contents LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

COMMUNITY Readers’ Poll

Community Happenings

NEWS Global

12 National

That’s Odd

ISRAEL

Israel News

My Israel Home

103

Kiryat Gat Comes Together in Support

108

MK Yitzchak Pindrus on What’s Happning on the Ground

110

Signs for Solidarity on Central Avenue

114

Never Again by Barbara Deutsch

115

Who Gave Hamas the Cement For Tunnels? by Rafael Medoff

139

JEWISH THOUGHT Rabbi Wein on the Parsha

Holy Brother by Rav Moshe Weinberger

The Journey To Yourself by Rabbi Shmuel Reichman

100

Delving into the Daf by Rabbi Avrohom Sebrow

102

Headlines and Halacha by Rabbi Yair Hoffman

104

PEOPLE Inspiration Nation

106

Corps of Engineers, Part II by Avi Heiligman

142

HEALTH & FITNESS Food for a Better Mood by Tehila Soskel, RDN, CDN

126

Maintaining the Friendship in Your Marriage by Malka Klaver

128

FOOD & LEISURE The Aussie Gourmet: Modern Israeli Salad

131

LIFESTYLES

Dating Dialogue, Moderated by Jennifer Mann, LCSW

118

Parenting Pearls

122

School of Thought

124

JWOW!

130

Mind Your Business

132

Your Money

150

Just My Opinion by Rivki D. Rosenwald Esq., CLC, SDS

151

HUMOR Centerfold

POLITICAL CROSSFIRE Notable Quotes

134

Biden’s Impossible Demand by Caroline Glick

140

Vast Gaza Tunnels Present a Battlefield of Nightmares by David Ignatius

138

CLASSIFIEDS

145

Dear Editor, Thousands of Israelis from evacuated cities in the south and north of the country are now being housed in “settlements” across the “Green Line.” Jewish settlements in biblical Judea and Samaria have been constantly depicted as preventing peace in the Middle East. But as the Arabs fire thousands of rockets at Israeli cities inside the “Green Line,” they conspicuously ignore the putative Jewish settlements across it. Thus, it is clear that despite what they have falsely propagandized the international community to believe, the Arabs don’t regard the settlements to be the crucial problem. Rather it is the existence of Israel itself. May G-d speedily help protect the Jewish people from all our adversaries! Sincerely, Henry Moscovic Flushing, NY Dear Editor, I hope this letter finds you all as well as can be, considering the fact that the Jewish people everywhere are fighting for our very existence. I live in Israel and I myself have three sons and one son-inlaw who have been sent to the front lines. The truth is that there is not a child in this country whose safety can be guaranteed even in his own bed. There is no need for me to elaborate. Social media has brought all these atrocities into every single home across the globe. American Jews, and Jews worldwide, have shown an unbelievable outpouring of love and identification with all of us here in Israel. The tefillot which are being

said are surely enough to storm the Gates of Heaven. The care packages that have been sent, the medical supplies, the military supplies, millions of dollars in donations, a fabulous and inspiring trip by Hatzalah members, the lists go on and on. All these efforts are tremendously helpful and appreciated by us all. We truly thank you from the bottom of our hearts. So why am I writing to you at this moment? Actually, I come to you in the name of my beloved and revered father, Rabbi Fabian Schonfeld, a”h, one of the greatest rabbanim in the history of American Jewry, one of the greatest Zionists I ever knew, in the purest sense of the word. My father taught me everything I know, and all my life I have striven to follow in his footsteps. My brother himself, Rabbi Yoel Schonfeld, carries high the torch that was lit by my father, but unfortunately health issues prevent him from doing what I must ask you all to do today. Come!!! Please come!! In the words of this week’s parsha, “Go for yourself from your land...to the Land that I will show you.” G-d’s message could not be any clearer. His timing could not be any better. As a proud American Orthodox Jew living in Israel, I am puzzled that, three weeks into this Milchemet Mitzvah, to date there still have been no major Rabbinical delegations that have come to mourn with our people, to accompany us as we bury over 1,400 of our dead, to visit the shiva houses, to visit the refugees from the south who have been ravaged by war and are now spread out throughout this country, to sit with us in our bomb shelters as the sirens wail across our land, to visit the 400,000 troops who were called Continued on page 10

What type of Shabbos candles does your family light?

44 30 26 %

Wax Candles

Neironim

Oil

OCTOBER 26, 2023 | The Jewish Home

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Continued from page 8

out of their shuls on Simchat Torah, to give us encouragement face to face – so desperately needed by us all. This is what my father would have done. He would have organized mass delegations from across the USA – fellow rabbis, community leaders, laymen, men and women, university students. He would never have taken No for an answer. No was not a word that featured in his lexicon. He only knew eis l’asos l’Hashem! That was his guiding light in life. I have recently heard that YU is beginning to organize missions like these. Have letters been sent out to all shul members encouraging them to do the same? Next week, we will be reading Parshat Vayeira. How many Yitzchaks we have already sacrificed on our altars here... who knows how many are still to come... We do not ask you to don the unforms of the IDF. We only ask that you come and support us while we go off to war. Please, I beg you, heed our call! Oseh shalom bimromov Hu ya’ase shalom aleinu v’al kol Yisrael v’imru Amen! Debby Spero Karnei Shomron, Israel Dear Editor, The Biden Administration appears to support Israel, but that support is contingent on Israel allowing humanitarian aid to Gazans and limiting “retribution.” Stopping Hamas is alright, but wiping Hamas out appears not to be OK. At the very least, the aid could have been tied to the return of the over 200 hostages. However, President Biden appears to be more interested in appeasing the Arab world, especially Iran, and they sense his weakness. Furthermore, President Biden, in his speech has conflated aid to Israel with continued aid to Ukraine. They involve different issues: Ukraine won’t defeat Russia, but Israel must defeat Hamas because Hamas poses an existential threat not only to the State of Israel but also to the citizens of Gaza. Jan Henock Woodmere, NY Dear Editor, Last week, after waking up, my wife and I weren’t feeling very well. Nevertheless, we trudged on. I went to daven, and she prepared for her day. As I was about to board my train to go to work, I got a phone call. My wife told me she tested positive for covid. Of course, if the call came a few moments later, I’d be on the train, with a possible chance of infecting others with a difficult commute home, as

I wasn’t feeling well. Racheli Frenkel, whose son was murdered by terrorists in 2014, has since become a voice of strength for all to absorb difficult events. To the recent tragedy, she applied the words, “Vayidom Aharon – Aharon was silent” when he heard of the death of his two children. He accepted G-d’s decision with no questions. But Frenkel points out, there was an immediate continuation to the story, and that is Moshe tells Aharon to continue his service. Indeed, we must accept and then continue our mission. She also said over words from Rav Aharon Lichtenstein that he said following the Yom Kippur War. Rav Lichtenstein said that we must build a loving trust with G-d not dependent on anything. Even in good times, we must build this trust and cleave to Him with no ulterior motives, such as being saved by perilous events. I had my small moment of hashgacha that morning, being saved from boarding a train while infected by Covid. Hashgacha brings belief. It seems there’s another avenue as well to cleave to the Creator – a loving trust with or without the need to be rescued from unspeakable tragedies. Steven Genack Dear Editor, President Biden’s call to send $100 million of your tax dollars to Gaza for humanitarian relief is naive. Gaza is governed by Hamas. They are the same terrorists responsible for the loss of 1,400 Israel citizens murdered at the hands of Hamas. This would be the equivalent of America losing 40,000 babies, children, teenagers, adults and seniors. Hamas has a long history of diverting humanitarian aid for military purposes. This included building a network of three hundred miles of underground tunnels in Gaza. First things first, Hamas should release all hostages from Israel, the United States and other nations around the world. Any humanitarian aid after that needs to be administered by the International Red Cross supplemented by outside observers. This is the only way to assure that aid goes to civilians in need versus Hamas terrorists. Don’t pay for it by adding $100 million to our long term $33.6 trillion national debt. Instead, reduce our aid to the useless pro-Palestinian United Nations by $100 million. Sincerely, Larry Penner Great Neck, NY

OCTOBER 26, 2023 | The Jewish Home

The Jewish Home | OCTOBER 26, 2023

The Week In News

5 Released From Venezuela

In the middle of the night, on Thursday, October 19, five political prisoners were released from their imprisonment in Venezuela. This news comes as the United States continues to pressure the South American country to allow free elections and to release the U.S. citizens and political opponents it has “wrongfully detained.” Among those released last week was opposition Congressman Juan Requesens and journalist Roland Carreno, a close acquaintance of former opposition leader Juan Guaido. Marco Garces; Eurinel Rincon, a former secretary at the Ministry of Defense who had been accused of treason; and Mariana Barreto, who had been imprisoned for protesting the irregularities in the supply of gasoline, were also freed. According to Antony Blinken, the U.S. Secretary of State, the U.S. has demanded that Venezuela allow banned opposition members to run in the presidential race and free Americans and political prisoners who were detained for little reason by the end of November. A day before, on Wednesday, after the government of Venezuela reached an election deal with the opposition, the Biden Administration decreased some of the sanctions the U.S. placed on Venezuelan oil and gas when Trump was in office, allowing Venezuela to do business with international energy firms while enabling U.S. and European companies to more readily acquire the South American country’s crude and natural gas, according to Brian A. Nichols, the U.S. Assistant Secretary of State for Western Hemisphere Affairs. Based on the deal, the 2024 presidential election in Venezuela will be monitored internationally and will take

place in the second half of the year. The agreement, however, does not allow certain banned opposition members to run for president. The U.S. will likely undo the easing of sanctions if Nicolás Maduro, the president of Venezuela, doesn’t put an end to the opposition’s ban from public office and release the three Americans still wrongfully imprisoned in the South American country, according to an anonymous State Department official. The names of the three imprisoned U.S. citizens are Eyvin Hernandez, a public defender from Los Angeles, Jerrel Kenemore, a programmer from Texas, and Joseph Ryan Cristella, a former resident of Florida. Hernandez and Kenemore were both arrested in the early months of 2022 days apart from one another, while Cristella was apprehended later that year in September. All three have been accused of crossing the Venezuelan border from Colombia in an act of conspiring against the state of Venezuela, although the prisoners’ families have claimed that the charges are untrue.

France Bans Pro-Palestinian Protests

Following the implementation of a new law banning pro-Palestinian protests in France, a group of hundreds came together to protest in central Paris on Thursday. According to reports, police and military officials attempted to end the rally through the use of water cannons and tear gas. “Pro-Palestinian demonstrations must be prohibited because they are likely to generate disturbances to the public order,” French Interior Minister Gerald Damanin said in his announcement early Thursday. Citizens who take part in such protests will be arrested, while visitors and non-residents would be “immediately expelled,” he added, urging police to guard places frequented by the Jews of France, including synagogues and schools. On that same day, President Emmanuel Macron made a speech in which he discussed the importance of French unity

OCTOBER 26, 2023 | The Jewish Home

The Jewish Home | OCTOBER 26, 2023

in these difficult times. “It is this shield of unity that will protect us from drifting away and from all hatred,” he said. The ban has been seen as controversial and anti-democratic by pro-Palestinian demonstrators, and many have ignored the rule altogether. Gathered at the Place de la Republique, a historic monument in Paris, protestors yelled, “We are all Palestinian. Palestine will live, Palestine will prevail.” These pro-Palestinian rallies come more than two weeks after Hamas’ series of unspeakable terrorist attacks began, taking the lives of 1,400, with many more wounded and abducted, thus triggering what will likely be a long war.

Iceland Women’s Rights Strike

the wage gap by 2022. Employers have generally supported the campaign and have not penalized participants who taking off from work. Additionally, the Icelandic Nurses’ Association, the Federation of the Public Workers Union in Iceland, the Icelandic Association of Women’s Associations, and other public workers unions have come out in support of the strike. The people behind the event have put the spotlight on immigrant women whose “invaluable” work is “rarely acknowledged or reflected in the wages they receive.” The organizers have also encouraged men to contribute to the effort by “taking on additional responsibilities” on the job and at home so as to fill in for the female workers who will be absent on that day.

Conservatives A women’s rights strike took place on in UK See Some Tuesday in Iceland, marking the seventh strike of its kind. The first women’s rights Losses strike of this campaign occurred also fifty years ago, on October 24, 1975. Most notably, Prime Minister Katrin Jakobsdóttir, Iceland’s second female head of government, also went on strike this week. “On 24 October, all women in Iceland, including immigrant women, are encouraged to stop work, both paid and unpaid. For the whole day, women will strike, to demonstrate the importance of their contribution to society,” said the organizers of the campaign.

Many are calling the strike the “Women’s Day Off,” and say it is a demonstration against the gender wage gap, unfair treatment of females, and violence against Icelandic women. Jakobsdóttir urged her fellow female members of government to join her in refusing to work on that day “in solidarity with Icelandic women.” “As you know, we have not yet reached our goals of full gender equality and we are still tackling the gender-based wage gap, which is unacceptable in 2023. We are still tackling gender-based violence, which has been a priority for my government to tackle,” said Jakobsdóttir. In the past, her administration vowed to remove

Britain’s governing Conservative Party on Friday suffered crushing defeats in electoral contests for two of its safest parliamentary seats, sending an ominous signal to Prime Minister Rishi Sunak about his chances of holding onto power in the next general election.

The results were the latest evidence of a Labour Party resurgence after 13 years in opposition, and some analysts said the scale of its success suggested the party was headed for a decisive victory when the country goes to the polls sometime in the next 15 months. Labour’s wins in two former Conservative strongholds — one of which the Tories had held since 1931 — came as Britain’s health care system suffers acute strain, the country faces persistent labor unrest, and its economy stagnates amid high inflation. While those conditions were always likely to put the ruling party under pressure, the losses in the heartlands were of sufficient magnitude to suggest that a fundamental shift in the electoral landscape might be underway, political analysts said.

OCTOBER 26, 2023 | The Jewish Home

The Jewish Home | OCTOBER 26, 2023

OCTOBER 26, 2023 | The Jewish Home

The Jewish Home | OCTOBER 26, 2023

“It is beginning to look terminal for the Tories now,” said Tim Bale, professor of politics at Queen Mary University of London. He added that to lose two contests — known as by-elections — for such safe seats “indicates that there is a timefor-a-change mood in the British electorate, and once that happens, it’s very difficult to hold back the tide.” In Tamworth, northeast of Birmingham, Labour’s Sarah Edwards overturned a Conservative Party majority in the last general election of almost 20,000 votes to win narrowly, while in Mid Bedfordshire, around 50 miles north of London, Alistair Strathern overcame an even bigger deficit of 24,664 votes to seize the seat. Few analysts expected Labour to win both seats. Less than four years ago, the party suffered its worst performance in a general election in eight decades, under its left-wing leader Jeremy Corbyn. His successor Keir Starmer is widely viewed as a competent, technocratic lawmaker who has shifted his party to the political center ground. On Friday, Starmer said that Labour was redrawing the political map. “Each of these results is extraordinary,” he said. “It is history in the making.” The defeats sent shock waves through the Conservatives. One member of Par-

liament, Andrea Jenkyns, wrote on X, formerly Twitter, that the party needs “to make far-reaching major changes now to instill confidence in the Conservative voters.” (© The New York Times)

Iran’s Morality Police Strike Again

Armita Geravand, 16, is now brain dead after she had been assaulted by Iran’s morality police for not wearing a headscarf. The teen was hospitalized with head injuries following the alleged assault at a Tehran metro station earlier this month, according to activists, just weeks after Iran passed draconian legislation imposing much harsher penalties on women who breach the country’s already strict hijab rules.

“Follow-ups on the latest health condition of Armita Geravand indicate that her condition of being brain dead seems certain despite the efforts of the medical staff,” the state-aligned Tasnim news agency reported this week. Earlier in October, the Norway-based Hengaw Organization for Human Rights, which focuses on Kurdish rights, said Geravand was “assaulted” by morality police and fell into a coma. Another opposition network, IranWire, said Geravand was admitted to the hospital with “head trauma.” Reportedly, female morality police officers had approached Geravand near the Shohada metro station and asked her to adjust her hijab. An altercation ensued, and she ultimately collapsed. Iranian authorities have denied the allegations, saying Geravand was hospitalized due to an injury caused by low blood pressure. Last month, Iran’s parliament passed a so-called “hijab bill” on the wearing of clothing – which if violated can carry up to 10 years in prison – following the first anniversary of mass protests sparked by the death of Mahsa Amini. Amini, a 22-year-old Kurdish-Iranian woman, died last September after being detained by the regime’s infamous morality police, allegedly for not abiding by the country’s conservative dress code. On Sunday, Iranian authorities jailed two journalists who first covered Amini’s death. Niloofar Hamedi, who worked for the reformist Shargh newspaper, was sentenced to a total of 13 years in prison on charges including “cooperating with the hostile government of the United States,” and “collusion to commit crimes against the country’s security,” state-run Mizan news reported. Elaheh Mohammadi, who worked for reformist newspaper Ham-Mihan, was sentenced to a total of 12 years in prison on similar charges, according to Mizan.

After polls closed, Massa received the highest number of votes – 8,877,325, accounting for 36.33% of the total, data revealed. Milei received 7,373,876 votes – roughly 30.18%. Third place candidate Patricia Bullrich got 23.82% and conceded defeat late Sunday night.

Each candidate is vying for the nation’s trust at a moment of widespread disillusionment with the country’s elite and its management of the country. The results have highlighted a strong showing for the government coalition supporting Massa, who is currently Economic Minister, as Argentina finds itself in the most serious financial crisis of the last twenty years. Turnout in this election was over 75%, with more than 25 million Argentinians casting their ballots. “It has been a model day of Argentine democracy,” Julio Vitobello, general secretary of the presidency, said on Sunday night. The economy is a key issue on people’s minds. Inflation is now at 138% in Argentina. To win in the first round of voting, a presidential candidate must obtain more than 45% of all votes or a minimum of 40% and at least a 10-point lead over the second-place candidate. Whoever wins the run-off next month will take office in December for a four-year term.

Gold Miners Stuck Underground

Runoff in Argentinian Elections Argentinians are going to be heading back to the polls next month, as results from the election this week showed that a run-off vote between left-wing candidate Sergio Massa and far-right libertarian Javier Milei is in order.

More than 500 workers at Gold One International’s Modder East mine in South Africa have been stuck underground for the past few days by labor unions.

OCTOBER 26, 2023 | The Jewish Home

The Jewish Home | OCTOBER 26, 2023

Five hundred forty workers at the operation near Johannesburg were kept underground after the night shift ended by the Association of Mineworkers and Construction Union (AMCU), according to Jon Hericourt, a Gold One spokesperson. “Last night, we heard AMCU members prevented workers from coming back up,” he said earlier this week. For more than a decade, the company has identified the National Union of Mineworkers as the recognized union group working in the gold mine. AMCU has claimed to meet the criteria needed to reach the status and threatened to strike in a court process that hasn’t been concluded. Production at the gold mine is at a standstill. People are concerned that workers below are running out of food and water. It’s possible that female workers will be allowed to come to the surface before the details are ironed out between the unions.

Spy Chiefs Warn of China Threat

The United States and its allies vowed last week to do more to counter Chinese theft of technology, warning at an unusual gathering of intelligence leaders that Beijing’s espionage is increasingly trained not on the hulking federal buildings of Washington but the shiny office complexes of Silicon Valley. The intelligence chiefs sought to engage private industry in combating what one official called an “unprecedented threat” on Tuesday as they discussed how to better protect new technologies and help Western countries keep their edge over China. The choice of meeting venue — Stanford University, in Silicon Valley — was strategic. While Washington is often considered the key espionage battleground in

the United States, FBI officials estimate that more than half of Chinese espionage focused on stealing American technology takes place in the Bay Area. It was the first time the heads of the FBI and Britain’s MI5 and their counterparts from Australia, Canada and New Zealand had gathered for a public discussion of intelligence threats. It was, in effect, a summit of the spy hunters, the counterintelligence agencies whose job it is to detect and stop efforts by China to steal allied secrets. “That unprecedented meeting is because we are dealing with another unprecedented threat,” FBI Director Christopher Wray said. “There is no greater threat to innovation than the Chinese government.” The warnings come as the United States and China engage in an intense and expanding spy-versus-spy contest, and as U.S. officials say that China’s espionage efforts have reached across every facet of national security, diplomacy and advanced commercial technology in the United States and partner nations. The intelligence chiefs said China is intensely interested in Western artificial intelligence, a technology that will allow countries to improve their intelligence collection and analysis and is set to be a driver of economic gains for years. Just before the spy chiefs met on Tuesday, the Biden administration announced that it was limiting the sale of advanced semiconductors to China, a restriction that could curb China’s development of artificial intelligence. At a news conference Tuesday evening, Wray said China was stealing American technological know-how and then turning around and using the stolen knowledge to steal more. “They are using AI to improve their already massive hacking operations, in effect using our own technology against us,” Wray said. (© The New York Times)

Soldier from Md. Dies in Missile Strike An Israeli military reservist raised in Maryland was killed on Friday when anti-tank missile fire struck his unit near Israel’s northern border with Lebanon, the

Israeli military said. Omer Balva, 22, was among the 360,000 reservists that the Israeli government had mobilized in an immense increase in its military forces before an expected ground invasion of Gaza.

Balva was a staff sergeant in the 9203rd battalion of the Alexandroni Brigade, according to the Israeli military. He moved to Israel after graduating from high school in Rockville, Maryland, in 2019 and was a student at Reichman University in Herzliya, Israel, where he was pursuing a degree in business administration and economics. Ethan Missner, a close friend of Balva’s since childhood, said that the two had talked “almost daily” for their entire lives, except when Balva was training with the Israeli military. “I truthfully don’t know a single person that’s ever fought with Omer,” Missner added. “And I think that that’s a superpower Omer had, that he can know and be close to so many people and he was just only sweet.” Balva was on vacation in the United States when he was called up to fight in Israel, Missner said. He said Balva had been traveling, and he had planned to propose to his girlfriend soon. Before Balva left for Israel about a week ago, he stopped in Maryland and spent some time with Missner, who said that his friend’s top concern was making sure his loved ones were not too worried. Balva’s parents were in Israel when he arrived, and he spent two days with them before he was sent to a military base, Missner said. “He died fighting for the people that he loved and a country that he loved,” Missner said. On Sunday, Missner and his family watched a livestream of Balva’s funeral in Israel. Thousands of people attended, he said, and the speakers included Balva’s parents, his three siblings, and his girlfriend. Balva graduated from the Charles E. Smith Jewish Day School in Rockville, outside Washington. The school said in a statement on Instagram that Balva was “an unabashed advocate for the State of Israel.” (© The New York Times)

OCTOBER 26, 2023 | The Jewish Home

The Jewish Home | OCTOBER 26, 2023

OCTOBER 26, 2023 | The Jewish Home

The Jewish Home | OCTOBER 26, 2023

Too Many Orphans Twenty-one children in 13 families are now left without parents. The tragic number includes 16 cases in which both parents were killed, while the remaining children had one parent killed while the other was taken captive or has been missing since the deadly assault two weeks ago. The children include a 4-year-old girl held hostage in Gaza. Another young girl’s mother was murdered and her father is being held captive, the Welfare Ministry said. “The fact that so many children are victims of the brutal Hamas attack turns the stomach,” Welfare Minister Yaakov Margi said in a statement. He pledged that the government would look out for these children “for their entire lives and will not spare any resource in helping them rehabilitate.” Since the October 7 massacre by Hamas, more than 200,000 Israelis have been internally displaced. A spokesperson for the Prime Minister’s Office said on Sunday that about half of the 200,000 people were instructed to evacuate from 105 communities near the Gaza and Lebanon borders in the south and north,

while half left areas close to the front of their own volition. Israel says its campaign in Gaza is aimed at destroying Hamas’s infrastructure, and has vowed to eliminate the entire terror group, which rules the Strip. It says it is targeting all areas where Hamas operates, while seeking to minimize civilian casualties.

2 More Hostages Released

On Monday, it was confirmed that Nurit Cooper, 79, and Yocheved Lifshitz, 85, were released by the Hamas terror organization after being kidnapped in the October 7th attacks. Brig. Gen. (Ret.) Gal Hirsch, Israeli coordinator for the captives and missing, said, “The two women were abduct-

ed from their homes on Kibbutz Nir Oz during the murderous assault on Saturday, October 7. Nurit Cooper’s husband, Amiram, 85, and Yocheved Lifshitz’s husband, Oded, 83, who were abducted with them are still being held by the brutal terrorist organization along with the other captives. “We will continue to do everything possible for their return,” he said. Hirsch thanked Egypt and the Red Cross for their help in obtaining the two women’s release. “This is not a deal; it’s a unilateral move we had no part in,” political officials in Jerusalem told Israel’s Channel 12. Both Nurit and Yocheved are Israeli citizens. Yocheved and Oded, who were among the founders of Kibbutz Nir Oz, were peace activists and regularly transported patients from Gaza to receive medical treatment in hospitals across Israel. Earlier on Monday, there were rumors that Qatar and the United States were working on obtaining the release of abductees with dual nationality separately from those who have only Israeli citizenship. Israel is denying any involvement in any negotiations with those who were kidnapped. “Israel will not be a party to a ‘selection’ for holders of foreign passports for release,” a diplomatic source inside the Israeli prime minister’s office was quoted as saying on Monday. Israel Defense Forces Spokesman Rear Adm. Daniel Hagari said on Monday that the military has so far confirmed that terrorists kidnapped 222 people during Hamas’s October 7 attack, in which 1,400 people were massacred in Israel and more than 4,500 were wounded. On Friday, the terror group freed the first two hostages for what it called “humanitarian reasons.” “Judith Tai Raanan and her daughter, Natalie Shoshana Raanan, were released by the terrorist organization Hamas,” the Israeli prime minister’s office confirmed. The two women were kidnapped from Kibbutz Nahal Oz during the October 7 invasion of the western Negev. “In response to Qatari efforts, Al-Qassam Brigades released two American citizens (a mother and her daughter) for humanitarian reasons, and to prove to the American people and the world that the claims made by Biden and his fascist administration are false and baseless,” Hamas wrote on Telegram after their release. Judith, 59, and Natalie, 17, are U.S. citizens who live in Illinois. They had been visiting family for the holidays when

they were kidnapped by the terror group. In a statement, U.S. President Joe Biden confirmed the two women’s release and thanked the “government of Qatar and the government of Israel for their partnership” in securing the safe transfer of the mother and daughter. “From the earliest moments of this attack, we have been working around-theclock to free American citizens who were taken hostage by Hamas, and we have not ceased our efforts to secure the release of those who are still being held,” Biden’s statement said. “Jill and I have been holding close in our hearts all the families of unaccounted for Americans. And, as I told those families when I spoke with them last week, we will not stop until we get their loved ones home. As President, I have no higher priority than the safety of Americans held hostage around the world.”

Aid Sent to Gaza

After President Biden’s trip to Israel last week, aid has been coming into Gaza. On Monday, a third convoy of aid trucks entered the Rafah crossing from Egypt bound for Gaza. Deliveries of aid through Rafah began on Saturday. Turkey sent two cargo planes to Egypt on Monday carrying medical equipment and supplies for Gaza, Health Minister Fahrettin Koca said, adding two more aircraft would be sent with more supplies. Earlier this month, Turkey sent three aircraft carrying aid for Gaza. On Sunday, it also sent a medical team and supplies to Egypt, saying Ankara was ready to treat wounded Palestinians in Turkey, if needed, and to set up a field hospital at Egypt’s El Arish Airport and Rafah border crossing. The cargo planes carried medicine, generators, medical supplies, incubators for babies, phototherapy machinery, diapers and baby food. Among the medical supplies, Koca said on X (formerly known as Twitter), were emergency response equipment, operating tables, ventilators, ultrasound machines and orthopedic supplies for those wounded in the war.

OCTOBER 26, 2023 | The Jewish Home

President Recep Tayyip Erdogan condemned Israel for the attack.

The Jewish Home | OCTOBER 26, 2023

Following news of the hospital’s destruction, many gathered outside Israeli embassies located in Istanbul, a major city in Turkey, and Ankara, the capital of the country, to protest against Israel. When multiple rioters attempted to infiltrate the consulate building, police intervened, and dozens were injured in the confrontation that ensued. Five people were arrested. On that same day, Hakan Fidan, a Turkish diplomat, announced that Turkey was in contact with Hamas and was discussing the prospect of freeing the civilian hostages abducted by the terrorist organization. “Our efforts continue, especially for the release of foreigners, civilians, and children. We will continue our efforts to ensure lasting peace,” Fidan said.

Palestinian Protests In Germany

Israel Says to Leave Turkey Amid growing security concerns, Israel has ordered all its diplomats to leave Turkey, according to a person with knowledge of the matter. Last Tuesday, the National Security Council issued a similar warning, urging all Israelis to leave Turkey “as soon

as possible.” A day later, the embassy in Istanbul attributed the citizen evacuation order to the increasing number of terror threats targeting Israelis overseas. The Jewish state organized flights in order to bring its citizens home from Turkey. These precautions come as Israel enters its third week of mourning since a series of horrific terrorist attacks orchestrated by Hamas took the Jewish state by surprise and resulted in the deaths of over 1,400 Israelis, with more than 5,000

injured and 200 abducted, leading to an all-out war against the terrorist organization responsible for the attacks. Hamas and much of the Arab world claimed that Israel was responsible for destroying a Gazan hospital in a rocket blast last Tuesday, although the United States and others have verified that the rocket actually came from the Palestinian Islamic Jihad and, as a result of a misfire, destroyed the hospital where hundreds of Palestinians were sheltered. Turkish

Although pro-Palestinian protests are banned in Germany, demonstrators nonetheless gathered in Neukoelln, a district with a significant Arab population located in the German capital of Berlin, on Wednesday night, October 18. The protests quickly turned into violent riots as sixty-five police officers were hurt while attempting to disperse the crowd. Officers were “wounded by stones, flammable liquid and acts of resistance,” the Berlin police wrote on X, a social media platform formerly known as Twitter. According to reports, through the Telegram messaging app, local men were encouraged to “turn Neukoelln into Gaza. Burn everything.” “Rubbish bins and obstacles were put

OCTOBER 26, 2023 | The Jewish Home

The Jewish Home | OCTOBER 26, 2023

on the streets,” making it difficult for the police to stop the demonstration, and “stone and pyrotechnics were thrown” at approaching officers, prompting the police to hit the rioters with a water cannon, according to the authorities. Earlier that day, Molotov cocktails were hurled at a Berlin synagogue. A day later, German Chancellor Olaf Scholz condemned the riots, making it clear that Germany stands against and has outlawed all demonstrations where “antisemitic slogans are shouted, where the deaths of other human beings are glorified.” One hundred seventy four people involved in the protests were detained, sixty-five of whom are currently under investigation. Since the devastating October 7th attacks which triggered the Israel-Gaza War, Hamas has murdered over 1,400 Israelis, wounded more than 5,000, and abducted over 200. Germany has since offered military aid to the Jewish state and is working on eliminating pro-Hamas demonstrations in the country. “At this moment, there is only one place for Germany — the place at Israel’s side,” Scholz declared. “Our own history, our responsibility arising from the Holocaust, makes it a perpetual task for us to stand up for the security of the State of Israel.”

NYT on Gaza Hospital Blast

In an article published by The New York Times on October 17, the paper reported Hamas’ claims that Israel was responsible for the bombing of a Gazan hospital. Six days later, the Times published an Editor’s Note explaining that the article was flawed in that it did not “make clear that those claims could not immediately

be verified,” thus leaving readers of the popular daily paper “with an incorrect impression about what was known and how credible the account was.” The Editor’s Note added that Israel claims that the hospital was destroyed after a misfired rocket launched by the Islamic Jihad hit the building, thus killing the hundreds of Palestinians inside. U.S. investigations have since proven that Israel’s account of the matter is accurate. “Given the sensitive nature of the news during a widening conflict and the prominent promotion it received, Times editors should have taken more care with the initial presentation and been more explicit about what information could be verified. Newsroom leaders continue to examine procedures around the biggest breaking news events — including for the use of the largest headlines in the digital report — to determine what additional safeguards may be warranted,” the Editor’s Note said in its conclusion. In the same issue that featured the Editor’s Note, another article was published by The New York Times, titled “Hamas Fails To Make Case That Israel Struck Hospital,” in which the paper noted the inconsistencies of Hamas’ account of the matter and mentioned how Hamas is in control of Gaza’s Health Ministry. Upon asking Hamas for evidence that an Israeli rocket hit the building, Ghazi Hamad, an official working for the terrorist organization, told the Times that “the missile has dissolved like salt in the water. It’s vaporized. Nothing is left.” In a follow-up text, Salama Maroof, the head of the Hamas media office, said that the terrorist organization isn’t responsible for the presentation of such evidence. “Who says we’re obligated to present the remnants of every rocket that kills our people? In general, you can come and research and confirm for yourself from the evidence we possess,” Maroof said. In response to the claim that the rocket had disintegrated, N.R. Jenzen-Jones, the director of Armament Research Services, explained to the Times that “one would expect remnants to be recoverable in all but the most extreme circumstances, and the available imagery of the hospital site suggests something ought to be identifiable on the ground.”

Did you know? Israel has the fourth largest air force in the world (after the U.S., Russia, and China).

OCTOBER 26, 2023 | The Jewish Home

The Jewish Home | OCTOBER 26, 2023

Menedez Pleads Not Guilty

Sen. Bob Menendez, D-N.J., pleaded not guilty on Monday to a new federal charge that accused him of illegally plotting to be an agent of Egypt while serving as chair of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee. It was Menendez’s second not-guilty plea in a month after he and his wife, Nadine Menendez, were accused of being at the center of a broad web of political corruption. The couple has been charged with accepting bribes in exchange for

the senator’s efforts to increase aid and weapons sales to Egypt while also working to quash criminal investigations for associates in New Jersey. The bribery-related charges were first announced last month by federal prosecutors in Manhattan; a revised indictment, made public Oct. 12, included the new charge of conspiring to act as an agent of a foreign government. Nadine Menendez, 56, pleaded not guilty to the new conspiracy charge last week, but Bob Menendez was granted permission to appear Monday, instead, so that he could be present in Washington for legislative business. His appearance on Monday took less than five minutes, and he left the courthouse in Manhattan without addressing questions from reporters. Two hours later, Menendez released a statement saying that he had “done nothing wrong,” and remained confident he would be “found innocent” once all the facts were presented. Three New Jersey businesspeople, including Wael Hana, a U.S. citizen born in Egypt who founded a halal-certification company based in Edgewater, New Jersey, have also pleaded not guilty to participating in the corruption scheme. Investigators found bars of gold bul-

lion and $550,000 in cash during searches of the Menendezes’ home in Englewood Cliffs, New Jersey, and of a safe-deposit box. Prosecutors have asked a judge to seize their home and a Mercedes-Benz convertible that the government says was given to them as a bribe. On Monday, a coalition of 25 organizations sent a letter to Menendez requesting that he resign. But the senator, who had been planning to run for reelection to a fourth full term next year, has given no indication that he intends to step down. (© The New York Times)

at that time. Until now, King was declared to be absent without leave from the army, instead of the more serious title of deserter. Those convicted of desertion can be jailed for up to three years, but in times of war, the punishment might even be the death penalty.

Fatal Crashes in Fog

U.S. Army Private Charged With Desertion

Travis King, a twenty-three-year-old U.S. Army private who had crossed into North Korea, has been charged by the U.S. on eight counts, including desertion, physically assaulting his fellow officers, illegally possessing alcohol, and more, and is currently being held by the U.S. military. On July 10, King was set free from a South Korean jail after two months of imprisonment on charges of assault. A week later, he fled to North Korea, passing the heavily armed border in the process. King was promptly arrested. While the communist country initially intended to send him to Fort Bliss, Texas, after agreeing to free him, their plans changed just before he was expected to board the plane. King instead went to Panmunjom, a village on the Korean border, where he took part in a civilian tour for around two months after which North Korea decided to give him over to the United States. With help from Swedish officials who brought King to meet with Nicholas Burns, the U.S. Ambassador to China, at the Chinese-North Korean border, King was transported to an Air Force base in Texas. When King arrived back in the United States, he was brought to the Brooke Army Medical Center located in Fort Sam Houston and underwent “reintegration,” a process in which he was subject to medical and psychological examinations. King’s family was permitted to visit him

At least seven people were killed on Monday in a slew of crashes along Interstate 55 in Louisiana. The crashes involved at least 158 vehicles, state police say. More than 25 people were taken to hospitals with injuries ranging from minor to critical. The cause of the fatal crashes was “super fog,” which had heavily impacted the area around the time of the pileups. Super fog is a thick fog that develops in damp, smoky conditions and can send visibilities plummeting to less than 10 feet, according to the National Weather Service. Some of the vehicles caught on fire after the initial crash. One of the vehicles involved in the wrecks was a tanker truck carrying “hazardous liquid,” police said. First responders had to reach the area by foot because the area had been completely gridlocked.

Chevron to Acquire Hess

In the second energy megadeal this month, Chevron, the second largest U.S. oil giant, said on Monday that it had agreed to acquire Hess, a medium-sized

OCTOBER 26, 2023 | The Jewish Home

The Jewish Home | OCTOBER 26, 2023

OCTOBER 26, 2023 | The Jewish Home

The Jewish Home | OCTOBER 26, 2023

rival, in an all-stock deal valued at $53 billion. The deal marks a further consolidation of the energy industry, especially in the United States, where smaller companies appear to be taking advantage of relatively high oil prices to join forces with bigger players. The transaction follows Exxon Mobil’s $60 billion purchase of shale driller Pioneer Natural Resources this month, another sign of confidence among large industry players in the future of fossil fuels even as policymakers promote cleaner energy sources. Like Exxon’s acquisition of Pioneer, Chevron’s move shows that big oil companies want to invest closer to home amid rising political risks in Asia, the Middle East and Africa. In recent years, Chevron has increased its holdings in the Rocky Mountains and the Permian Basin straddling Texas and New Mexico. The jewel of the deal is the acquisition of Hess’ investment in offshore Guyana, which, in partnership with Exxon Mobil, is producing 400,000 barrels a day, up from nothing four years ago. Output is expected to triple by 2027, with Guyana representing more than 1% of total global output.

Natural gas bubbles up with the oil, providing an opportunity in the local electricity market and the potential to export to Trinidad and Tobago to produce liquefied natural gas for European markets. Chevron will also acquire Hess’ shale fields in North Dakota; offshore production in the Gulf of Mexico, where it made a major oil discovery this year; and a natural gas business in Southeast Asia. In a news release, Chevron said Hess would add about 10% to Chevron’s overall oil and gas production of about 3 million barrels a day. Environmentalists were critical of the deal. “Chevron’s acquisition of Hess this week is yet another concerning sign that the fossil fuel industry has no intention of slowing down,” said Cassidy DiPaola, campaign manager for Fossil Free Media. “Deals like this lock us into greater fossil fuel dependency and greenhouse gas emissions for decades to come.” Chevron, like Exxon, says it is building new abilities to capture carbon dioxide and bury greenhouse gases in the ground or recycle them. (© The New York Times)

CVS Pulls Popular Cold Meds

ly monitoring the situation and actively partnering with the Walgreens Office of Clinical Integrity and suppliers on appropriate next steps.”

Food As Addictive As Drugs?

After an advisory panel for the Food and Drug Administration decided that the main ingredient of several cold medicines is ineffective, CVS announced that it would be taking certain products off the shelves. “We are voluntarily removing certain oral cough and cold products that contain phenylephrine as the only active ingredient from CVS Pharmacy stores,” a spokesperson for the drug store chain said. “Other oral cough and cold products will continue to be offered to meet consumer needs.” The ingredient in question is oral phenylephrine, which is present in several popular drugs such as Vicks, Mucinex, Dayquil, Allegra, and Sudafed. Despite the determined ineffectiveness of the ingredient, there are currently no health concerns when it comes to its consumption. Additionally, the committee’s decision only serves as a suggestion which the FDA will look into and make a final decision on at a later date. Thus, if the FDA determines that drugs that use the ingredient are ineffective, the agency said it would have to “work closely with manufacturers to reformulate products as needed to help ensure availability of safe and effective products to treat symptoms of colds or allergies.” The Nonprescription Drugs Advisory Committee’s recommendation is only relevant to phenylephrine when it is taken orally. The committee had nothing to say with regard to the ingredient’s effectiveness when taken through a nasal spray. Additionally, “the presence of phenylephrine in these products does not affect how other active ingredients work to treat those symptoms,” the FDA said in reference to drugs that use phenylephrine alongside other active ingredients. The government agency also cautioned customers to check the drug facts label to see if phenylephrine is an active ingredient to ascertain whether a certain product is effective or not. A spokesperson from Walgreens said that the pharmacy store chain is “close-

A study conducted by the University of Michigan has concluded that ultra-processed foods, such as candy, chips, and ice cream, might be as addictive as drugs, alcohol, and tobacco, citing 281 studies, spanning thirty-six countries, which indicate that 14% of adults and 12% of children have demonstrated that they have food addictions. According to the study, certain people’s food-eating habits might fall under the category of substance use disorder which causes the “biopsychological mechanisms of addiction and clinically significant problems.” Researchers noted that due to the fast speed with which ultra-processed foods bring carbs and fat to the gut, as well as the additives used for flavor and texture, these foods tend to be more addictive than their healthier counterparts. “There is converging and consistent support for the validity and clinical relevance of ultra-processed food addiction,” said Ashley Gearhardt, the lead study researcher and a psychology professor at the University of Michigan. “By acknowledging that certain types of processed foods have the properties of addictive substances, we may be able to help improve global health.” Signs of food addiction, according to Tanya Freirich, a registered dietitian based in North Carolina who did not take part in the study, include obsessive thoughts and cravings, using food as a means of coping with life issues, consuming even though you’re not hungry, feeling out of control with your eating habits, being unable to stop consuming certain foods even when you know it’s in your best interest to, and having withdrawal symptoms. “While you can enjoy food thoroughly, being addicted to food starts to veer into an unhealthy territory with detrimental

OCTOBER 26, 2023 | The Jewish Home

The Jewish Home | OCTOBER 26, 2023

effects for the rest of your life,” Freirich said. “For example, overeating past the point of comfort or to the point of causing digestive distress, or struggling to concentrate on other topics besides food and meals can be signs of a food addiction.” Erin Palinski-Wade, another dietitian who was not involved in the study, voiced her reservations about labeling food “as addictive as drugs.” “Although foods rich in added sugar may stimulate the feel-good chemicals in the brain and become habit-forming, sugar itself is not addictive in the way cocaine or another drug may be,” she explained. “Consuming sugar and then reducing or eliminating it from the diet will not result in withdrawal symptoms or side effects as would happen from a true addiction.”

SCOTUS Asked to Block EPA Rule With the “good neighbor” rule, the Environmental Protection Agency implemented new regulations aimed at decreasing the amount of smog and air pollution traveling between neighboring states. To accomplish this, power plants throughout the country would need to be

equipped with new technology. “If it’s allowed to be fully implemented, this clean air rule will reduce asthma symptoms for millions of Americans, keep thousands of people out of the hospital, and save over a thousand lives each year,” stated Kathleen Riley, a lawyer who works for Earthjustice, a nonprofit environmental litigation group. “None of the rule’s protections should be put on hold.”

states include the plan’s potential impact on the economy and the electric grid. “The plan inflicts irreparable, economic injuries on the States and others every day it remains in effect,” the Republican states said. “Worse still, the plan is likely to cause electric-grid emergencies, as power suppliers strain to adjust to the federal plan’s terms. To prevent these harms, the Court should step in now.”

Why Olive Oil is Expensive Now

In accordance with the Clean Air Act, the EPA makes changes to its pollution regulations every so often. In March, the EPA revised the law to make it stronger, thus forcing twenty-three states to follow the new interstate air pollution rules. However, a group of Republican states are seeking to block the EPA from implementing such a rule and have presented their case to the Supreme Court, after failing to stop the implementation in lower courts. The concerns of the objecting

tra-virgin olive oil that cost around $9 at the grocery store last October is around $11 today, a nearly 22% increase, according to IRI, a data provider. Southern Europe, which accounts for more than half of global olive oil production, is to olive oil what the Middle East is to crude oil. And things are not looking good for the upcoming European harvest, which began this month: The European Commission recently said olive oil production in Spain, Italy and other European Union countries would recover only slightly from last season’s 40% decline, limiting supplies and pushing up prices. Olive oil has become so dear that it has attracted criminal gangs, with some particularly brazen thefts at farms and factories in Spain and Greece. (© The New York Times)

A Flu Vaccine at There is something different late- Home?

ly about the olive oil Michelle Spangler buys, bottles and infuses with flavors such as basil and blood orange for her store in Dallas. It’s not the taste but the cost: Global olive oil prices have soared to record levels, more than doubling over the past year. Spangler has an agreement with her store’s supplier that protects against such rapid price increases, but she still expects to pay up to 20% more. She plans to raise prices 10% to 15% in her store, Infused Oils & Vinegars, early next year. Like the oil that comes from the ground, olive oil is a globally traded commodity, with events in one part of the world reverberating far away. Drought in Spain, the world’s largest olive oil producer, has devastated recent harvests, and bad weather has hit olive crops in other major growers including Italy, Greece and Portugal. The United States imports almost all of the olive oil it consumes, primarily from Spain and Italy. The result is prices climbing to dizzying heights, well over $9,000 per metric ton, which filters through to pricier bottles of the oil that have become a fixture in many American households, used for cooking and drizzling on foods associated with a healthy Mediterranean diet. A 750-milliliter bottle of Bertolli’s ex-

Next year, it may be possible for people to self-administer the nasal spray flu vaccine in the comfort of their homes. Drugmaker AstraZeneca said this week that the U.S. Food and Drug administration is reviewing an application for people to be able to use the spray on their own. FluMist, the only nasal spray option against flu, has been on the market in the United States since 2003. AstraZeneca has asked the FDA to allow adults ages 18 to 49 to be able to give themselves the vaccine, or to give it to children as young as age 2, citing a “usability study” showing people can do it properly without a health care provider present. If approved, it would be the first flu vaccine cleared for self-administration. The drug would need to be ordered through an online pharmacy system,

Did you know? Israeli Major Uzi Gal developed the Uzi submachine gun in 1948. Over 10 million Uzis have been built since then.

OCTOBER 26, 2023 | The Jewish Home

The Jewish Home | OCTOBER 26, 2023

which would then ship the vaccine to people’s homes. If approved, doctors are hoping that more people would take the flu vaccine. While the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends everyone age 6 months and older get a seasonal flu vaccine every year, fewer than half of Americans get vaccinated. “One of the things we’ve learned from the pandemic is that actually people can do things for themselves, they can take maybe more responsibility for their own health care in their own hands than perhaps we realized or even thought possible,” Dr. Lisa Glasser, AstraZeneca’s head of U.S. medical affairs, vaccines and immune therapies, said. During the Covid-19 pandemic, she noted, “we put nasal swab tests in people’s hands, and they used them successfully.” If approved, the FluMist would be available for self-administration for the 2024-2025 flu season. FluMist uses a live, weakened version of the influenza virus to provide protection against the flu, while injectable versions use different technology — either killed viruses or proteins to train the immune system to fight off

the virus. AstraZeneca says FluMist has shown to be as effective as other flu vaccines.

States Sue Meta

Dozens of U.S. states are suing Meta and its Instagram unit, accusing them of contributing to a youth mental health crisis through the addictive nature of their social media platforms. In a complaint filed in the Oakland, California, federal court on Tuesday, 33 states including California and Illinois, said Meta, which also operates Facebook, has repeatedly misled the public about the substantial dangers of its platforms and knowingly induced young children and teenagers into addictive and compulsive social media use. “Meta has harnessed powerful and

unprecedented technologies to entice, engage, and ultimately ensnare youth and teens,” the complaint said. “Its motive is profit.” The Meta lawsuit is the latest in a string of legal actions against social media companies on behalf of children and teens. TikTok and Google’s YouTube are also the subjects of the hundreds of lawsuits filed on behalf of children and school districts about the addictiveness of social media. Meta said that it had sought to make young people safe online. “We’re disappointed that instead of working productively with companies across the industry to create clear, age-appropriate standards for the many apps teens use, the attorneys general have chosen this path,” Meta said in a statement. Much of the focus on Meta stems from the release of documents in 2021 that showed that Meta had data showing that Instagram, which began as a photo-sharing app, was addictive and worsens body image issues for some teen girls. The lawsuit alleges that Meta strives to ensure that young people spend as much time as possible on social media despite knowing that teenage brains are susceptible to the need for approval in

the form of “likes” from other users about their content. Nine other states are expected to file similar lawsuits on Tuesday, bringing the total number of states suing to 42.

See You in San Francisco

San Franciscans don’t like outsiders bashing their city, but they’re also cleareyed about its biggest problems: homelessness, rampant drug use and leaders who can’t seem to fix those issues. So how does San Francisco turn its lackluster image around? Some wealthy locals say the way forward is a brand refresh, and they are throwing their support behind a new $4 million ad campaign that will promote

OCTOBER 26, 2023 | The Jewish Home

The Jewish Home | OCTOBER 26, 2023

San Francisco as a hub of innovation and creativity. The slogan? “It All Starts Here.” It’s meant to remind San Franciscans — and everyone else — that the city of cable cars, Levi’s jeans, Gap Inc., Uber, and the Golden State Warriors still has an exciting future ahead of it. The campaign, funded by tech billionaire Chris Larsen and Bob Fisher, whose parents founded Gap in San Francisco in the 1960s, includes a social media video narrated by actor Peter Coyote, hundreds of billboards around the city, banners hanging from light poles, and bumper stickers and signs for business owners and residents to hang in their windows. “No question we’ve got problems we’ve got to fix,” said Larsen, who has funded numerous startups and now sees his city’s reputation as desperately needing investment. “But we can’t let the brand just suffer,” he added. “We’ve got so much to be proud of, and we can’t lose sight of that.” The campaign was announced on Thursday at Oracle Park, the home of the San Francisco Giants. While it has been mostly funded by Larsen and Fisher, the campaign is being orchestrated by Advance SF, a new organization made up of the city’s biggest employers, as an effort

to bolster civic pride and lure tourists and convention-goers back. San Francisco’s tourism industry is slowly returning, but it hasn’t fully recovered from the pandemic. In August, for example, data collected by the city tourism board showed that 69% of the city’s hotel rooms were occupied that month, compared with 85% during the same month in 2019. “What we need to do is not let the self-fulfilling prophecies engulf us,” said Larry Baer, the Giants’ president and a co-chair of Advance SF. He noted that it was especially important to break out of the malaise as President Joe Biden and other heads of state were scheduled to come to the city next month for the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation summit. (© The New York Times)

The Cat’s Meow Bella’s bark is way scarier than her bite. The 14-year-old cat has earned the title of “world’s loudest purr by a domes-

tic cat (living),” according to Guinness World Records. Bella’s purr measured 54.49 decibels, which is equivalent to the sound of a tea kettle boiling and close to the sound of a standard washing machine.

Nicole Spink, Bella’s owner, is quite used to hearing the rumble of her cat throughout the day. “Also, when watching TV – she likes to be loud with television. My late husband used to always moan about the sound of her purr blocking the sound of the TV in the evenings,” Spink recalled. And she’s not surprised that Bella nabbed the top prize. “Friends and family always notice Bella’s loud purr. Everyone comments, ‘What’s that loud noise? Oh, it’s the cat.’ It’s just Bella being happy!” Spink continued. Spink and her daughter decided to measure Bella’s rumblings. Thankfully,

Bella belted out her best bellow when the sound engineer came to track the cat’s noises. Still, Bella is not the loudest cat ever, according to Guinness. Two cats, Merlin and Smokey, are recorded to have been even louder. In 2011, Smokey “was recorded purring at the astounding noise level of 67.8 dB, a full 13.21 louder than Bella,” according to Guinness. “Four years later, she was equaled by Merlin, owned by Tracy Westwood in Devon, U.K. — and they are still record co-holders to this day.” Sounds purr-fect.

Accidental “I Do”

Amir Khan and Kat Warren have an intrepid climber to thank for their unique engagement. The American pair had been touring

OCTOBER 26, 2023 | The Jewish Home

The Jewish Home | OCTOBER 26, 2023

the Eiffel Tower when the iconic structure was shut down; a man was illegally climbing the Paris landmark and police shut down the elevator until they managed to get him down. Unbeknownst to Kat, Amir had planned on taking her out to dinner later that day and propose to her. Thinking on his feet, Amir instead moved the proposal to the beautiful 1,083-foot tower. “I figured we might be here longer than I imagined,” Amir told a reporter for AP, who also happened to have been stuck on top. “So I didn’t want to miss dinner and she always wanted to be proposed to on or under the Eiffel Tower. So I figured, ‘This is it, this is the moment.’” And the answer? “Yes,” of course. “He had a pretty good chance of me saying ‘Yes’ all along,” Kat shared. Eventually, the climber was found, and firefighters helped to bring him down. Kat and Amir were able to take the elevator down, with Kat sporting a sparkling new ring on her finger.

Not Too Fine He may have been speeding, but a $1 million fine seems a bit excessive, no?

Connor Cato from Georgia said he had received the ticket for driving 90 mph in a 55 mph zone. Written on the ticket was the fine: a whopping $1.4 million.

body in our organization,” a spokesman for the city’s government said. Sounds like this is really not fine.

Eat and Run

Cato called the court thinking the figure was a typo but says he was told he either had to pay it or appear in court in December. Savannah officials say anyone caught driving more than 35 mph (56 kph) above the speed limit has to appear in court, where a judge will determine the actual fine. According to the court, the figure Cato received reflected a “placeholder” that was automatically generated by e-citation software used by the court. The actual fine cannot exceed $1,000 in addition to state-mandated costs. “We do not issue that placeholder as a threat to scare anybody into court, even if this person heard differently from some-

It’s one thing to avoid paying a bill because you’re not feeling well; it’s another thing to pretend to be sick in order to get out of paying a bill – twenty times! A 50-year-old man from Lithuania has been using this tactic to get out of paying his tab at fancy restaurants in Spain. He repeatedly faked heart attacks after eating sumptuous meals at various eateries. The man, whose name has not been released, was arrested last month after attempting to leave a restaurant without settling his bill by pretending to become unwell, local police said. It was the 20th such incident within a

year, making the man well known to the local police force. In the most recent incident, the man ordered two whiskeys and seafood paella at El Buen Corner, receiving a bill for 34.85 euros, or around $36.75, at the end of his meal. The manager of the restaurant, Moisés Doménech, said that a colleague noticed the man attempting to dine-and-dash and informed him of the outstanding bill. The man claimed he was going to his hotel room to get cash, but restaurant staff refused to let him leave without paying, the manager said. The man then dramatically threw himself to the ground and pretended to have a heart attack. But his ruse didn’t play out too well, as restaurant staff called the police instead of an ambulance for the faker. According to authorities, this is not his first time in the slammer for the ploy. An officer who had arrested the man on four previous occasions said that he orders expensive items like lobster, entrecote, and premium whiskeys. He also usually greets officers with a smile during his arrest and appears unfazed about spending a night or two behind bars. Hey, it’s free food in jail, right?

OCTOBER 26, 2023 | The Jewish Home

The Jewish Home | OCTOBER 26, 2023

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Community Far Rockaway-Five Towns Tehillim and Chizuk Asifah

n unprecedented fashion, numerous neighborhood schools and organizations joined together, bringing over 5,000 people to the streets of Far Rockaway for Tehillim and chizuk on Monday evening. Rabbi Yaakov Bender of Yeshiva Darchei Torah and Rabbi Eytan Feiner

of the White Shul headlined the evening with divrei dhizuk, and the Tehillim was led by Rabbi Nosson Neuman of Bais Yaakov Ateres Miriam, Mr. Richard Altabe of Hebrew Academy of Long Beach, Rabbi Meyer Weitman of Torah Academy for Girls, Rabbi Shalom Axelrod of Young Israel of Woodmere, and Rabbi Morde-

chai Kamenetzky of Yeshiva Toras Chaim of South Shore. The program concluded with the crowd of thousands singing the words of Acheinu Kol Beis Yisroel in unison, led by R’ Yisroel Werdyger with music accompanied by Dovid Leib Rodkin. Achiezer extends its heartfelt grat-

itude to our partners in this endeavor, specifically the RNSP Shomrim Patrol, as well as Rockaway/Nassau Hatzalah and the JCCRP. Endless appreciation is owed to the NYPD led by Captain Timothy Schultz of the 101 Precinct for overseeing a detail of hundreds of police officers who helped secure the event.

OCTOBER 26, 2023 | The Jewish Home

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The Jewish Home | OCTOBER 26, 2023

In honor of Parshas Noach, BY5T girls enjoyed a visit from the petting zoo

At the Hilula commemorating the 80th yahrtzeit of the Aish Kodesh of Piaseczna, zy”a, at Aish Kodesh in Woodmere

OCTOBER 26, 2023 | The Jewish Home

The Jewish Home | OCTOBER 26, 2023

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For Him…and Because of Him The Remarkable Success of Yeshiva Kol Torah

“A

Yeshiva where each bochur feels it’s for him…and because of him.” This sentiment was expressed by a parent of Yeshiva Kol Torah of the Five Towns and Far Rockaway, and it captures the essence of what sets this yeshiva apart. Yeshiva Kol Torah, led by Rabbi Dovid Opoczynski and Rabbi Boruch Wasser, has blossomed into a remarkable institution that stands as a testament to dedication, empowerment, and a passion for nurturing young minds. Founded with a vision to create an environment that caters to the needs of each talmid, Yeshiva Kol Torah has grown into a makom Torah where every bochur feels

a profound sense of belonging. One of the cornerstones of Yeshiva Kol Torah is its commitment to maintaining a balanced approach to chinuch. With a high academic standard, the yeshiva aims to guide its talmidim towards excellence while fostering a strong commitment to Torah values. The students are encouraged to challenge themselves and rise to their fullest potential, with the rabbeim’s support and hadracha every step of the way. A defining feature of Yeshiva Kol Torah is its focus on fostering a distraction-free environment. By providing an incentive program that encourages the boys to remain device-free, the yeshiva

enables them to make the most of their crucial mesivta years, ensuring that their growth and aliyah are unhindered by external distractions. The dedication of the yeshiva’s staff, led by Rabbi Opoczynski and Rabbi Wasser, is truly incredible. Each and every rebbi is dedicated to the hatzlacha of his talmidim, and each rebbi carefully follows the progress of every talmid. Shiurim at Yeshiva Kol Torah are interactive and engaging exchanges of rischa d’Oraysa. Their commitment to the students’ success goes beyond mere academics. It extends to their emotional and spiritual growth as well. The impact of Yeshiva Kol Torah on its talmidim is evident in the happiness and contentment they exude. Every bochur walks home with a smile, eagerly anticipating the next day at the yeshiva. “The strong reputation of our yeshiva has been earned thanks to it being a place where each talmid, through his learning and his middos tovos, contributes to Kol Torah’s unique atmosphere,” says Rabbi Opoczynski, the menahel and ninth grade rebbi, who hails from Flatbush, where he was previously the bais medrash mashgiach and taught the 11th and 12th grades at Yeshiva Tiferes Yisroel. “Indeed, along with the focus on high-level learning, there is an emphasis on middos and bein adam lachaveiro, and the growth of each bochur in this area is easy to detect.” Rabbi Opoczynski says that the chinuch philosophy of the yeshiva is to “guide the bochurim to achieve what we want them to be. We’re able to motivate them through our encouragement and confidence, bringing out their best.” “We measure success by how involved the boys are in shiur,” says Rabbi Wasser, the tenth grade rebbi, who learned at Yeshiva Chofetz Chaim and under Rav Asher Arielli at Mir Yerushalayim before serving as a rebbi at Yeshiva of Cleveland. “We empower the bochurim to figure things out on their own. They feel very much that they are the yeshiva.” This year, the yeshiva has its first eleventh grade class. The rebbi is the tal-

ented Rabbi Yanky Nissan, an alumnus of Yeshiva Chofetz Chaim, Yeshiva Torah Vodaas, and Bais Medrash Govoah in Lakewood who more recently was a maggid shiur at the Memphis Kollel. The yeshiva boasts a comprehensive curriculum, including iyun, bekius, halacha, and Chumash. Night seder three times a week, and an optional 45-minute extended night seder for the older grades, provides additional opportunities for growth and aliyah. During the three-hour afternoon general studies program, a staff of stellar teachers teach the bochurim, guiding them to receive an advanced New York State Regents diploma. “Middos and mussar occupy a pivotal place at Yeshiva Kol Torah,” says Rabbi Opoczynski. “It is not merely about learning concepts from a sefer, but fostering real, open discussions about values and hashkafos. Through these conversations, the boys internalize these ideals and grow into refined bnei Torah.” “The yeshiva organizes trips, Shabbatonim, and learning programs for various occasions,” Rabbi Wasser adds. “Toameha on Fridays, a Sunday football league and other such programs serve as powerful tools for bonding, instilling a sense of camaraderie among the talmidim.” Looking to the future, Yeshiva Kol Torah’s vision is only growing. The acquisition of a new campus underscores its commitment to providing the best for its talmidim. The yeshiva continues to innovate and expand, with the ultimate goal of shaping young minds into committed, well-rounded bnei Torah ready to make an impact on the world. And there’s no better place to do just that than a yeshiva where “Each bochur feels like the yeshiva was built for him… and because of him.” For more information, please join us at our Open House, Tuesday, November 7, 7:30PM at Bais Tefilah of Inwood, 259 Doughty Blvd, Inwood, NY 11096.

OCTOBER 26, 2023 | The Jewish Home

The Jewish Home | OCTOBER 26, 2023

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Central Prioritizes Positivity with Self-Care Week

elf-care events are legendary at Central – students look forward to the chance to take a breath and a moment for themselves, in a school year containing stressors and tests of all kinds, both in and out of the classroom. Central’s first Self-Care Day of the year, which took place on Monday, October 23, was a much-needed chance for all students to relax and engage in some growth and relaxation. This year’s selfcare focus aligns with Central’s theme for the year – positivity. The idea powering this year’s events: positivity is a decision, an initiative that one can adopt and carry out with determination and intention. And once such a decision is made, it can become a habit that can inform an entire outlook. This year’s events are being de-

signed with the idea that students can change their minds – positively. “We want students to learn to take care of themselves,” said Central’s school psychologist, Dr. Ariella Gettenberg (‘13). “A big aspect of this self-care is open-mindedness. We want to instill a growth mindset in our students, particularly in regard

to their mental health. Positivity is a choice. This is the foundational message that we wanted to send, especially at this point in the school year.” With this goal of positive change in mind, students engaged in ice cream making during their lunch periods, trying out the idea of producing something

new from familiar materials. “We’re also bringing in a hypnotist to demonstrate that students can actually alter their states of mind – if they are willing,” Dr. Gettenberg continued. One significant change to Central’s self-care education approach: instead of scheduling a Self-Care Week, as in years past, there will be several self-care days placed strategically throughout the school year, with November, January, March, and May events to follow. Each date will focus on exploring a different aspect of self-care, including stress management. “The key is to show students that selfcare should be consistent throughout the year, and so this is an event that will happen regularly,” Dr. Gettenberg said.

Chazaq’s Response to the War in Israel

n response to the escalating war in Eretz Yisrael, Chazaq, a dynamic nonprofit organization dedicated to community enrichment, rapidly and effectively organized a series of 13 Chizuk and Tehillim events throughout the tristate area, and virtually, for Jews around the world to participate as well. These events featured over 20 distinguished speakers, including renowned figures such as Rabbi Paysach Krohn, Charlie Harary, Rabbi Gav Friedman, HaRav Eliezer Ginsburg, Jackie Bitton, and more. Over 10,000 participants, both in person and online, came together to draw inspiration, offer prayers, and support one another during these trying times. These special events addressed a wide range of topics, emphasizing the

importance of emunah (faith in Hashem), Jewish unity, and the strengthening of Torah, mitzvahs, and charity. One of the highlights of all these events is the inclusion of special group Tehillim readings which united participants in heartfelt prayer for the safety and well-being of Israel. Chazaq Director Rabbi Ilan Meirov urged everyone to not just read the Tehillim robotically, but to rather “read it as if your own son is on the front lines fighting the terrorists.” Doing so, he says, will take our prayers to the next level. In addition to the community events, CHAZAQ’s Jwave teens division and Shaping Lives children’s division have done many special activities and learning sessions for the success of Eretz Yisrael with hundreds of students feeling a

deeper connection to the Holy Land due to it. Chazaq remains steadfast in its mission to offer ongoing support and inspiration to individuals and communities as the situation in Israel continues to evolve. The organization’s ability to respond swiftly and mobilize resources showcases its dedication to nurturing

unity and faith within the community. Chazaq already has more events planned, and a few initiatives that just started, including a “Partner with a Soldier” initiative, where individuals can receive a soldier’s name to learn torah, take on a mitzvah, etc., in that soldier’s merit. More information can be found at bit.ly/ partnerwithasoldier

Rosh Chodesh Cheshvan Inspiration at Shevach High School

osh Chodesh Cheshvan was celebrated in Shevach High School with a morning that included Tehillim, inspiration, and introspection coupled with a delicious breakfast for all the students. Shevach Menaheles Mrs. Shulamith Insel opened with meaningful words relating to the crisis in Eretz Yisrael at this time. She mentioned that Cheshvan is often called Mar Cheshvan, and if one reads the letters differently, it reads Merachashin, which means moving, or quivering. As we enter the month of Cheshvan, our lips seem to still be moving. We

are still feeling that special closeness to Hashem, an after effect of our many heartfelt tefillos during the Yamim Noraim. As such, we are tuned in to the power of our tefillos, and our davening seems to come forth more freely. Mrs. Insel emphasized how worthwhile it is for us to tap into this incredible koach hatefillah, as we are mispallel for our brothers and sisters in Eretz Yisrael. She then led the students in the reciting of Tehillim together. Guest speaker Rabbi Moshe Sokoloff spoke to the students about the significance of Rosh Chodesh to women in particular. Rabbi Sokoloff is the rav of the

Agudah of KGH and his daughter Adina is presently a student at Shevach High School. Rosh Chodesh was given as a holiday, a break from work for women, because they refused to give their gold jewelry to create the egel hazahav. Therefore, women have a special relationship to Rosh Chodesh. In addition, Rosh Chodesh is a day of forgiveness every month. Cheshvan is the first month after Tishrei. It gives us a chance to reset our actions and conquer new vistas. It is an opportunity to start again with optimism and enthusiasm. We can realize our endless potential, starting

right now. Rabbi Sokoloff’s words made a deep impression on the students who gained a deeper understanding of this special Yom Tov for women. This event was coordinated by Shevach Educational Administrator, Mrs. Devorah Kovitz, in conjunction with the Rosh Chodesh/Ruach Committee consisting of Chana Tova Kasirer, Meira Kramer, Yocheved Mamanov, Racheli Max, Elisheva Welcher and Miriam Zicherman. They worked with Shevach’s G.O. members: Malka Dym, Tehilla Levant, Miriam Nat, Yehudit Shemesh and Esti Tratner. Yasher koach for a job well done!

OCTOBER 26, 2023 | The Jewish Home

The Jewish Home | OCTOBER 26, 2023

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A Community United in Tefillah in Support of Israel Scenes of the recent evenings of chizuk in Far Rockaway and the Five Towns Photos by Ira Thomas

Beth Sholom

The White Shul

Around the Community

Young Israel of Lawrence-Cedarhurst

OCTOBER 26, 2023 | The Jewish Home

Young Israel of Woodmere

The Jewish Home | OCTOBER 26, 2023

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YOSS sixth graders spent their Sunday afternoon in Cedarhurst Park selling used books, raising $750 in just two hours supporting Hatzalah in Eretz Yisrael

At the Sunday soup sale for our Chayalim at the Weingot home in Woodmere

A New Reality for Yidden in Eretz Yisroel

efore Simchas Torah, Shmuel and Rochel lived comfortably in a small Yerushalayim apartment with their four children. Every day, Shmuel would go to the bakery he runs with his younger brother, Dovid. Rochel would drive their children to school where she worked as a teacher. B”H, they made enough to get by and even gave tzedakah to those less fortunate. After Simchas Torah, Shmuel and Rochel are still living in their small Yerushalayim apartment. Schools have closed,

leaving Rochel jobless and homebound with her children. They’re joined by their cousins, who are without a home, since having to relocate from Sderot. Shmuel continues to go to work, but with Dovid called back into the IDF and supply shipments from the south cut off, there’s not much he can do. With no work and even more mouths to feed, Shmuel and Rochel are in desperate need of help. This is the new reality countless Yidden across Eretz Yisroel are suddenly encountering. In this time of crisis, our

brethren are facing unprecedented financial pressure and hardships. But while these challenges may be new to some, they are all too familiar to Kupath Rabbi Meir Baal Haness. Since their founding over 225 years ago, Kupath Rabbi Meir has always been on the front lines, helping the aniyim of Eretz Yisroel get through times of financial difficulty. For the needy parents, struggling to make enough to feed their children. For the displaced family, forced to

leave home to escape devastating attacks. For the elderly mother, whose son has been called away to defend our people. Kupath Rabbi Meir has been, and always will be, there to provide direct care and support to those in need. To learn more about or contribute to Kupath Rabbi Meir Baal Haness, visit KupathRabbiMeir.org or call 718-8717807.

OCTOBER 26, 2023 | The Jewish Home

The Jewish Home | OCTOBER 26, 2023

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Touro Dental Students Give Lawrence Kids a Smile

ental anxiety affects millions of Americans and students at Touro College of Dental Medicine (TCDM) did their part to mitigate it last week at the school’s Give Kids a Smile event held at the Lawrence Kindergarten. Seventeen dental students screened, educated and entertained 150 four- and five-year-olds during the three-hour program. Dental students split into groups and set up stations where the kindergartners were first screened with a quick exam, then taught how to brush and floss and offered educational games to play. Music was playing, goody bags were distributed, and children had a chance to try on pint-size lab coats. “It’s important to give kids a positive experience with the dentist from the earliest age,” said Dovi Grosser, a Cedarhurst native and 4th year dental student who organized the event. “We wanted them to see that keeping your teeth healthy can also be fun. I had a patient in the clinic who is 85 years old and had extreme anxiety because of a negative childhood

experience at the dentist. She still hadn’t gotten over it years later. We want to start these kids off with the feeling that dentists are friendly and maintaining oral health is a good thing.” In addition to the students, Give Kids a Smile was attended by Lawrence School Board members Heshy Blachorsky, Abel Feldhamer and Dr. Asher Mansdorf, a local dentist who is an assistant professor at Touro College of Dental Medicine. Lawrence Kindergarten principal Kathleen Graham and Superintendent of the Lawrence School District, Dr. Ann Peterson, also collaborated with TCDM in organizing this event and participated onsite. “This program goes to the idea of educating the whole child. We teach academics but it’s also important to teach important life skills and this event helps us do that in a fun way,” said Graham. Dr. Edward Farkas of Lawrence, Vice Dean of Touro College of Dental Medicine, said this was the first time Give Kids a Smile was brought to a local community school. “We have done these events

Touro dental students with Dr. Asher Mansdorf, local dentist who is a Lawrence School Board Member and assistant professor at Touro College of Dental Medicine

at our dental school, but we now see how well it works to bring the program to the community and have plans to do this at other schools in different locations over the next year. Many children don’t have access to dental care and this program is a first step.” Carina Lakharam, age 5, shared that “my mom brushes my teeth for me but now that I learned how to brush and floss, I’m going to try to do it myself at home.”

Lakharam and her peers discussed their snack preferences with the dental students and learned about what’s healthy and good for their oral health and what’s not. “Lots of parents don’t take their kids to the dentist until they’re older,” said 3rd year dental student Shaina Lavi of Great Neck. “Exposure to the concept of good dental care at a young age is a way to encourage them to adopt good habits.”

AMIT Children Launches “Help Heal the Children of Sderot, Israel” Campaign

n direct response to the Hamas terrorist attacks, AMIT launches “Help Heal the Children of Sderot,” a relief campaign aimed to support one of the central communities AMIT has served for more than 40 years. This emergency initiative focuses on the epicenter of the recent attacks and is an urgent call to support Sderot’s children in their greatest time of need. The southern city of Sderot and its children have suffered unimaginable psychological trauma. AMIT is committing to providing immediate, free counseling and PTSD therapy to the 4,333 AMIT children and educators who reside in Sderot. AMIT is the major provider of education to Sderot. AMIT’s 257 educators in the area and in-school teams have established bonds with each of the students and families, which makes them uniquely qualified to provide individualized support. AMIT is partnering with PTSD experts at the Arbel Institute and other top mental health service organizations to carry out this critical mission. On Friday, October 13, the Israeli gov-

ernment determined that all Sderot must be evacuated with a significant number of residents moving to temporary housing in the Dead Sea region. As AMIT is responsible for the education of all students in Sderot, AMIT opened a school for Sderot children in the Dead Sea. Trauma services are being transferred with schooling to the area. AMIT continues to adapt and meet our children’s needs, wherever they are, as new scenarios arise in Israel. Responding to the crisis, AMIT initiated the “Heal the Children of Sderot, Israel” campaign, focusing on providing early intervention and intensive therapy to those impacted. Child studies show that the first 30-45 days after a trauma is a critical time to get counseling, so AMIT understood the urgency in getting this effort underway. The campaign is designed for people looking for a way to directly support those impacted and to bring people from all over the world together to help Israel heal. To donate, visit: https:// amitchildren.org/healisrael/. “As a central part of the Sderot community, AMIT has critical work and a difficult path ahead. Our kids, their fam-

ilies, and our AMIT staff have suffered unimaginable psychological trauma and early intervention is the only hope to change the course of their lives,” says Shari Safra, President of AMIT. “This is our community, and these are our children. It is important that they know they are not alone, and that AMIT will be there to support them as long as it takes to re-

cover.” The town of Sderot is located just over a half a mile from the Gaza border and has been a constant target and under attack for decades. 12,000 rockets have been launched at Sderot since 2000. Sderot suffered tremendous loss in the recent Hamas attacks.

Did you know? The glue on Israel’s postage stamps is kosher.

OCTOBER 26, 2023 | The Jewish Home

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The Jewish Home | OCTOBER 26, 2023

Students at YOSS ECC send letters to soldiers in Israel

Four HALB students joined Rabbi Axelrod and Rabbi Schachter of the Young Israel of Woodmere and 36 other students from 10 schools to deliver thousands of letters of appreciation and hakarat hatov to the Biden Administration.

Dozens Make Aliyah Amid Operation Iron Swords

espite the backdrop of war and increased tensions in the region, El Al flights from New York, Los Angeles, and Miami landed at Ben Gurion Airport on Thursday morning, bringing 25 new Olim (immigrants) to Israel. The Olim arrived through the assistance of Nefesh B’Nefesh, in partnership with Israel’s Ministry of Aliyah and Integration, The Jewish Agency for Israel, Keren Kayemeth LeIsrael and JNF-USA. Welcoming them were Co-Founder and Executive Director of Nefesh B’Nefesh, Rabbi Yehoshua Fass; Minister of Aliyah and Integration, Ofir Sofer; and Director General of the Ministry, Avichai Kahana. Spanning in age from 19 to 79, the Olim hail from U.S. states including: New York, New Jersey, Florida, California, Maryland, Michigan, and Ohio. They plan to establish their new homes across the State of Israel, from Jerusalem to Tel Aviv-Yafo, Haifa, Netanya, Beit Shemesh, Petah Tikva, Rosh Ha’ayin, Ma’ale Adumim, and beyond. Minister of Aliyah and Integration Ofir Sofer told the new immigrants: “We will never give up on the vision of the return of the nation of Israel to their land. The new immigrants from the USA, whom I welcomed today at the airport, prove and emphasize to our enemies that the belief in the righteousness of the path that has accompanied the Jewish people

for the last two thousand years of exile burns even now. The same longing for the Land of Israel burns in the Jewish people, especially in the war for the existence of the Jewish people in the State of Israel.” Joshua Rosenthal, 36, from Baltimore, shared, “My aunt immigrated to Israel nearly 45 years ago in 1979. She thought I was crazy when I told her I was still sticking with my plan to make Aliyah now. But as far as I’m concerned, as long as I have a seat on the plane with my name on it – I’m there! It’s very important that the people of Israel know that Jews all over the world still support Israel with everything we have and we’re still coming. Hope is our secret weapon and it’s what will get our people through this.” “Seeing olim arrive in Israel during the most challenging days we’ve ever known fills our hearts and gives us strength to

carry on,” said Chairman of the Jewish Agency, Maj. Gen. (res.) Doron Almog. “These olim boost our resilience and will be part of rebuilding our wonderful country. I embrace each one of them.” Assisting today’s new Olim and the hundreds of Olim who are currently planning their moves to Israel in the near future, Nefesh B’Nefesh is working around the clock to support its vast community of nearly 80,000 North American Olim as well as the thousands of international lone soldiers (those without immediate

family in Israel) in its dedicated FIDF – Nefesh B’Nefesh Lone Soldiers Program. The projects include offering free therapy and counseling services to families in the South, distributing much-needed supplies for Olim in problematic areas, hosting weddings at cost for northern and southern Olim as well as lone soldiers, assisting to fly physicians from abroad to lend immediate support to the Israeli healthcare system, expanding the reach of its 24/6 “Answers” hotline, and allocating financial grants for Olim families impacted by the war.

Did you know? The State of Israel asked Albert Einstein to be president of Israel after Chaim Weizman died in 1952. He declined.

OCTOBER 26, 2023 | The Jewish Home

The Jewish Home | OCTOBER 26, 2023

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New Mizvah Program at Ezra Academy

zra Academy was buzzing with energy and excitement this week. At an assembly on Monday morning, Rabbi Pinchas Fink, Director of Programming, announced a new and engaging mitzvah program. This innovative school-wide initiative is designed to get students to bring Torah and mitzvot that they learn in their classrooms into the hallways, lunchroom, and their homes. The theme of the year long program is “Appreciation.” Throughout the school year, there will be six units, each one focusing on a new mitzvah related to the concept of Hakarat Hatov, appreciating the good that we have in our lives. Students will learn about each mitzvah in class, participate in a fresh, fun and competitive challenge or competition, and be rewarded for their mitzvot with awesome raffles and prizes! Our first unit is focused on brachot on foods. In the classroom, Ezra students are learning the ideas and meaning behind brachot, as well as the practical

laws of the mitzvah. Special emphasis is placed on connecting brachot to students’s lives on a practical and real world level. Out of the classroom, a WhatsApp chat was created where students post videos and selfies of themselves or their friends making brachot. The more they post, the more tickets they earn for the big raffles. Hundreds of brachot posts were made in the first week. Alumni even posted their brachot from Israel! Students can also earn tickets by being “caught” by the rabbeim and morahs making brachot in school. Our first raffle for $100 was won by Natile Gavrielov! Parents, staff and students have all noticed a tremendous enthusiasm for brachos amongst the students in, and out, of school. Coming up soon will be Brachot Bee pitting grade vs. grade to compete for a special prize for showing mastery of brachot. We can’t wait to see what amazing mitzvah challenges are in our future at Ezra Academy!

OCTOBER 26, 2023 | The Jewish Home

The Jewish Home | OCTOBER 26, 2023

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Yeshiva of South Shore Motzei Shabbos Learning Program

he Yeshiva of South Shore Motzei Shabbos Learning Program began last week with well over 325 boys and fathers attending. This was the program’s highest attendance ever! The evening commenced with 40 minutes of learning, followed by heartfelt recitation of Tehillim on behalf of the hostages and injured in Eretz Yisrael. This was followed by the singing of Acheinu. It was very moving and uplifting.

The Rosh Yeshiva, Rav Mordechai Kamenetzky, addressed the overflow crowd, and the program concluded with

the raffling off of hundreds of dollars of prizes. Nosh was generously sponsored by Gourmet Glatt.

Join the YOSS learning program every Motzei Shabbos and be a true winner!

MTA Learning Intensely Towards a Siyum on Shas Mishnayos

HAFTR Commences its Names, Not Numbers Program

ith the challenging times that Klal Yisrael is facing, many people are looking to do more, to do their part to contribute to the greater good. MTA joined this cause in many ways, one of which is to complete Shas Mishnayos in time for their yeshiva-wide Shabbaton in a few short weeks. MTA’s goal is for all talmidim to be a part of this experience, and to that end, individual talmidim have signed up to learn perakim on their own. The Yeshiva did not stop there, though. Mishmar this past week brought the entire yeshiva together in the YU Beis Medrash to learn the entire Seder Moed! MTA is privileged to have the opportunity to constantly learn in the YU Beis Medrash among the YU talmidim and the many YU gedolei Torah and be a part of this tremendous learning experience. The Yeshiva eagerly looks forward to being mesayem all of Shisha Sidrei Mishna as a zechus for Am Yisrael soon.

his past week, HAFTR students embarked on their annual Names, Not Numbers project. This initiative serves as a bridge between the young and the past, connecting students with Holocaust survivors to ensure their stories are immortalized. The Names, Not Numbers project is a transformative experience for these students, providing them with the unique opportunity to delve into the lives of survivors and chronicle their narratives spanning life before, during, and after the war. Through this endeavor, students not only sharpen their skills in historical research and interviewing but also come face-to-face with the harrowing firsthand accounts of the Holocaust. As in years past, HAFTR students have the unique privilege of collaborating with Lawrence Middle School for this significant undertaking. Together, they are united in the mission to ensure that the voices of Holocaust witnesses are never silenced. To equip students for their crucial role as interviewers, they received invaluable guidance from the editor of The Jewish Home, Shoshana Soroka. With her expertise, Ms. Soroka not only illuminated the structural nuances of an effective interview but also conveyed the profound power and importance of preserving these narratives. With her compassionate assistance and guidance, students honed their questions, ensuring they would resonate with depth and impact. Impressed with the gravity of their task, the students felt invigorated and ready to embark on this meaningful journey. Their eagerness to contribute to this monumental project reflects a commit-

ment to honoring the memory of those who endured one of the darkest chapters in human history. Through their dedicated efforts, they will not only document these stories, but also pay homage to the resilience, strength, and indomitable spirit of those who persevered through unimaginable adversity. The Names, Not Numbers project stands as a testament to the enduring importance of preserving these narratives for future generations. It is a collective promise that the lessons learned from the Holocaust will forever serve as a beacon of tolerance, empathy, and understanding. In this undertaking, HAFTR students are not only embracing history but actively shaping it. Their dedication and compassion are a source of inspiration for us all. Names, Not Numbers Inc: an interactive, multi-media Holocaust film documentary project created by educator, Tova Fish-Rosenberg. www.namesnotnumbers.org The Names, Not Numbers Program is generously supported by a prominent national foundation.

OCTOBER 26, 2023 | The Jewish Home

The Jewish Home | OCTOBER 26, 2023

Around the Community

Yeshiva Har Torah Family Davens for Geulah and Shalom in Medinat Yisrael

eshiva Har Torah’s Parent-Teacher Association hosts an opening event every year, extending a warm welcome to new families and fostering a sense of unity within the school community. This year, the committee pivoted the program and invited parents, grandparents and teachers for an evening of solidarity in the wake of the tragedies that began in Israel over Shemini Atzeret. The evening opened with Hatikvah, followed by words of inspiration from the Head of School, Rabbi Gary Menchel. The night’s agenda was thoughtfully planned around TLC -Tefilah (prayer), Learning, and Chessed (acts of kindness). Attendees gathered to recite Tehillim. Afterward, everyone participated

in an enlightening learning session presented by Rabbi Etan Ehrenfeld, Middle School Assistant Principal. YHT’s Director of Psychology Services, Dr. Karyn Feinberg, made a presentation offering strategies to assist us in taking care of ourselves physically and emotionally, in order to be able to provide for the needs of our children. We also had the privilege of hearing from our four Bnot Sherut who are here for the year to complete their national service from Israel. They shared personal accounts and words of inspiration. The evening concluded with attendees writing heartfelt letters to soldiers for their strength and heroism, and to local appointed officials, expressing deep gratitude for their support of Israel amidst these challenging times.

Yeshiva Har Torah’s PTA partnered with two organizations to support our front-line workers in Israel, including Friends of the Israel Defense Forces and

Friends of Magen David Adom. We hope to see peace in Eretz Yisrael and for all of our soldiers to return home safely and soon.

HAFTR Students Represent Community in D.C.

A FTR students last week had the opportunity to join a delegation to Washing-

ton, D.C., w ith several other yeshiva students, together w ith Rabbi Shay Schacter and Rabbi Shalom A xelrod,

to deliver approximately 20,000 handwritten notes of appreciation and thanks to the Biden Administra-

tion for the support of Israel. What a kiddush Hashem!

Response to War in Israel: Roundthe-Clock Learning at Touro’s Lander College for Men

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n response to the horrific attacks in Israel and the ongoing war, Lander College for Men Beis Medrash L’Talmud launched a 24-hour learning initiative. The Beis Medrash is open and filled with the kol Torah 24/7 as students learn Torah as a zechus for yeshuos in Israel. “The learning in our Beis Medrash literally never stops,” said the Rosh Yeshiva, HaRav Yonason Sacks. “Our talmidim committed to engaging in roundthe-clock learning, consistent with the teaching of Rav Yosef in the Gemara Sotah, that Torah study protects and saves.” Immediately after the initiative was launched by Rabbi Sacks, students signed up for their time slots to ensure that the

learning would be constant and ongoing. “We all think that the all-night learning program is an incredible way to make sure that the special merit and protection of Torah learning and davening doesn’t stop for even a moment,” said Sam Davis, a political science major from West Hempstead who is Student Government President at Lander. “Even if that means waking up at 3 am, people don’t mind. And not only did we wake up early, we are doing it with energy and passion. This program also gives us a special understanding of the importance of our learning and what we can do for Klal Yisroel no matter where we are in the world.”

OCTOBER 26, 2023 | The Jewish Home

The Jewish Home | OCTOBER 26, 2023

OCTOBER 26, 2023 | The Jewish Home

The Jewish Home | OCTOBER 26, 2023

Around the Community

A Special Space for Smiles in a Time of War

effrey Mark always strives to make people happy through his projects. Under normal circumstances, those projects are high-end architecture and home design projects and those people are his clients. Last week, Jeffrey transformed his Jerusalem design center into a respite center, in efforts to bring smiles and some serenity to displaced Israeli children and their families. As the streets of Israel were solemn and still with many businesses closed since the Simchat Torah terror attack, the J. Mark Interiors showroom on King David Street sat quietly as well. With so many of their family members and loved ones deployed, Jeffrey and his team knew they too could be of service somehow, even if far from the frontlines. Little did they know that up the street at The Eldan Hotel were families in need, families who had fled their homes in Gaza border communities. Jeffrey received a visit from friend Jonathan Feldstein of Genesis 123 and

Jeffrey Mark with his daughter Simona

Sara Grunhaus of The Isaiah Project, both working with interfaith organizations to raise needed funds for Israel. They were coordinating to help people from Ashkelon, Sderot and surround-

ing regions, peoples who had been hunkered in their shelters for days at a time with very few resources. Sarah had been personally delivering food, water and basic supplies, driving out under constant barrage of attacks until the trips became unnavigable. Determined to take these families out of harm’s way, 20 rooms were booked in the Eldan Hotel for the refugee families. Close to 60 people arrived, including young children and an 80-year-old Holocaust survivor who had fought in the Yom Kippur War, all traumatized from what they had experienced. Following the many funerals and the horrible losses, they were grateful for some respite, to finally see the sun and sit in relative peace without the sound of sirens. “It was the first time they could sit and not be afraid of a rocket or a siren. We need to keep them safe and sound for a few more weeks,” says Sarah. “Suddenly, they are smiling, and it’s just amazing to see them smiling.” Hearing their plight, Jeffrey immediately sprang into action. J. Mark Interiors was transformed into a recreation center for the children and their families. Within hours, the glamorous showroom was occupied by craft tables and filled with art supplies, games and toys. In came a cotton candy machine and a huge Israeli flag hung from the ceiling. Uplifting Hebrew music permeated throughout, with singing and a guitar session later in the night. Parents

relaxed and enjoyed a few moments of respite while the children played. They remarkably sing “Am Yisrael Chai,” even amid all the loss of life they had encountered. “We have our whole J. Mark team here working on this, and it’s just beautiful to see the children smile,” says Jeffrey. “The best part was helping them all focus on something other than the death and destruction they had witnessed.” The next day featured a petting zoo with a special presentation for the children. Activities continued after the weekend with a keyboardist, karaoke, face painting, movies, popcorn, pizza and falafel. Later in the week, a flower arrangement workshop is planned and a barbeque dinner. Therapeutic arts and crafts is on the schedule along with other therapy and support for the adults. Jeffrey now has a growing team of volunteers, including seminary girls from Midreshet Moriah and of course his family – wife Hayley and daughter Simona, a recent bride who lost best friend Mai in the massacre. Working and living in both Israel and the U.S. keeps Jeffrey connected to people around the world, and he’s not only happy to open up his showroom; he uses his social media resources to spread the word. His efforts aren’t going unnoticed, and clients, friends and followers have reached out to him to see how they too can help. While the J. Mark showroom was bustling with the Parshat Noach zoo, another space was being arranged across town. A generous and compassionate client had offered up their new Jerusalem home to host six families who had fled the Gaza envelope town of Netivot. Colleague Avi Goldberg from City of Gold Apartments and his team, plus countless volunteers, spent hours stocking the pantries and preparing their home and kitchen to welcome the evacuees for a restful Shabbat. Aside from the much-needed funds for continued lodging and meals for the displaced families, Jeffrey reiterates, “Lifting spirits is a high priority.” Jeffrey and his team plan to do their part for as long as possible, to make sure there can be smiles to combat the sadness in the difficult weeks to come.

OCTOBER 26, 2023 | The Jewish Home

The Jewish Home | OCTOBER 26, 2023

Around the Community

In honor of Parashas Noach, some descendants of the animals saved in the Teivah from the Mabul came to visit Yeshiva Darchei Torah’s Harriet Keilson Early Childhood Center

Week 5 of the 5 Towns Flag Football League

hat a week it was at the 5 Towns FM Home Loans Flag Football League. This week, all the games were held on Sunday, and, wow, what games they were. In the pre-1A and first grade divisions, the boys are really picking up the game and having fun with their friends! It’s amazing to see how much they have improved over the course of the season. In the second grade division, so many games came down to the last second with games being decided on last sec-

ond touchdown throws. In the 3rd/4th grade division, the games were so competitive, and we had three ties this week! It doesn’t get better than that. In the 5th/6th grade leagues, the quality of play is off the charts with great interceptions and touchdowns. And finally, in the 7th/8th grade league, the teams were well matched in competitive games. Can’t wait for this coming week as everyone will receive a FM Home Loans 5 Towns Flag Football blanket.

S’dei Chemed Boys Reflect on the Recent Tragedy in Israel

fter spending this past summer in Israel and developing strong connections with Eretz Yisroel and Am Yisrael, the campers at S’dei Chemed needed a place to reflect and lift their spirits. The terrible tragedy and the war that followed really hit home.

We thank Rabbi Weberman for hosting a night of singing and healing to allow our campers to unite and comfort each other. Around the warmth of the firepit, the boys were given the opportunity to express their feelings and offer some meaningful ways to move forward in the new reality we are facing.

YCQ Graduate Sam Fried (‘11) Inspires Students Before Returning to IDF Unit

rades 4-8 at YCQ had the special privilege of welcoming Sam Fried (‘11) to a special Rosh Chodesh minyan on Monday, October 16, before he returned to Israel to join his unit in the army. Mr. Fried shared with the students that his love of Eretz Yisrael stemmed from his teachers and classes at YCQ and inspired him to join the IDF after high school. He powerfully remarked: “What’s going on in Israel is very scary, but to know that all of you are here davening, saying Acheinu, it’s what we’re here for, it’s what we’re fighting for. I promise you, this is what they’re trying to destroy, but this is what they can’t destroy.” On Tuesday, Mr. Fried rejoined his battalion in Israel. He encouraged the students to continue their part in the fighting by davening, learning Torah, and doing mitzvot in the zechut of all the

soldiers. The YCQ community is praying that Hashem should watch over him, his unit, the IDF, and the entire State of Israel.

Sam Fried receives a bracha from Rabbi Yaakov Finestone, Sam’s former YCQ rebbe

YOSS Holds CIJE Drone Olympics

ast week, the Abraham and Sara Silber Middle School at Yeshiva of South Shore hosted the Center for Initiatives in Jewish Education (CIJE) for a special Drone Olympics Competition. The competition began with CIJE Director of Curriculum Development Adam Jerozolim giving a presentation on how to use code to operate a drone. The students were then placed in groups in front of a computer and worked collaboratively with their peers on all the steps necessary to fly their drones safely and successfully through the obstacle course. They first went into the course itself with a measuring tape, taking notes along the way, collecting the data they will need to code and direct the drone.

Once they mapped out their course, each team began programming their drone using Scratch, a coding program that allows young learners to understand coding logic using blocks and visual aids, to program their drones, for example, rise 3 feet, turn 45 degrees, and get them ready for flight. After each team’s initial flight, the boys were able to use their data and recode the drone to better navigate the obstacle course. It was a great learning experience for everyone, seeing real life results using STEM applications. Special thanks to Phillip Brazil, Vice President of Development, Yaffa Lamm and Christopher Auger- Dominguez, CIJE Middle School Mentors, for enriching our student by holding this special event at our Yeshiva.

OCTOBER 26, 2023 | The Jewish Home

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SHS Chessed Launch

The Jewish Home | OCTOBER 26, 2023

In honor of Parshat Noach, Lev Chana had a visit from Party Pets and HALB hosted Center One Therapy Animals for the students. Everyone had a great time holding and learning about the different animals.

Middot Initiative at Shulamith

n Rosh Chodesh Cheshvan, the students at Shulamith had a special assembly. The girls heard a beautiful story from Morah Rachel Ash with an important message about the importance of vatranut, giving in to someone else’s needs. The assembly focused on why we call this month Mar Cheshvan

with an emphasis on Rochel Imeinu’s Yahrtzeit, which is coming up. At the end of the assembly, the girls were each given a chart to keep track of all the times they are mevater over the month of Cheshvan. The girls are excited to start filling out their chart for their end-of-the-month Mevater prize.

he long-awaited chessed launch at SHS, with its accompanying chessed trips, was put on hold as a result of the increasing security concerns these last few weeks. While we anticipate rescheduling the full day experience, we recognized the situation as an opportunity to pivot and focus our time and resources toward chessed for Israel. On Rosh Chodesh Cheshvan, following a program of heartfelt tefillah, song, and dance reflecting the feelings of the moment, each girl participated in one of several projects in support of Israel. Students sorted and packaged supplies that

had been donated to Tzahal, decorated banners to adorn army tanks, and baked cookies that were later “sold” for the price of a perek of Tehillim. Hundreds of letters were written to chayalim and items were organized for a community Challah Bake. The momentum throughout the building sparked feelings of positive energy, as we all struggle with feelings of helplessness and the need to contribute in some way. Aside from all the community-driven chessed that our girls have partaken in, this restructured chessed launch gave us an outlet to show our support in small but meaningful ways.

BYAM G.O. Breakout

ais Yaakov Ateres Miriam girls are ready to grow and fly with GO this year! The theme is Touring the World with First Class Middos, and the students, sporting their brand new BYAM fanny packs and passports, are ready to travel. After an exciting breakout which included some voices from Australia!, the girls were introduced to the exciting program with every detail attended to by the very talented Mrs. Rachel Messner. Each month the girls will have their passport stamped with the new middah of the month, along with the new country that they are about to visit. Additionally, each

girl will receive a chart taped to her desk. Every time she practices the highlighted middah, she will receive a stamp on her chart. When the chart is full, she will be ready to travel to the next country and see what is in store there. This month’s theme is a fitting one of Ve’ahavta L’rayacha Kamocha. Therefore, each girl was given two lollipops in her fanny pack, one for her and one to share with a friend, to immediately implement the middah and sweeten the experience for all. The ruach and excitement definitely have the girls flying high. Happy travels!

OCTOBER 26, 2023 | The Jewish Home

The Jewish Home | OCTOBER 26, 2023

Around the Community

Singing in Unity

Forensics Club Begins at YOSS

F L

ast week, HALB held a school-wide kumzitz for all students in grades 1-8, led by Sandy Shmuely. The students united as one voice as they sang

songs about strength, the Jewish people and Israel. It was a truly inspiring way to end the week at school.

Gan Chamesh Parshas Noach Petting Zoo

arshas Noach came to life at Gan Chamesh as the children excitedly greeted the animals in a visiting petting zoo. They were able to feed,

touch, pet and observe all kinds of animals which helped them conceptualize what it must have been like for Noach to care for the animals on the Teiva.

More than 100 YOSS Mechina Superstars earned points for davening, learning and doing mitzvos and chessed. Congratulations to our grand raffle winners, Dovi Miller, Zev Schimmel, and Shaya Baron!

orensics is the study of evidence that assists in solving crimes. Evidence that is studied can include fingerprints, odontology (teeth) hair and fiber analysis, handwriting, check and money fraud, and blood typing. At the Abraham and Sara Silber Mechina division of Yeshiva of South Shore, the Mechina recently had their first science club meeting. Led by YOSS science teacher Mrs. Christina Fitzpatrick, the club began with fingerprinting! Not only did the boys learn that every loop, whorl and arch is unique to each human’s DNA, but they ALSO learned how to study and differentiate ink prints, lift latent prints, and dust objects so the prints appear. This is just the beginning

of this new exciting club. There will be mock crime analysis, simulated crime studies, and lots of hands-on experiences for the students to put on their detective hats and learn about problem and crime solving!

Mercaz Academy Performs Hands-On Mitzvot

tudents at Mercaz Academy in Plainview enjoyed special hands-on mitzvah programs on challah baking and tzitzit tying last week. Boys in grades four through six welcomed back Mercaz Academy grandparent Rabbi Dr. Elliot Grossman, who taught them how to tie their very own tzitzit. Each student received a four-cornered garment, and Rabbi Grossman demonstrated how to tie tzitzit according to both the Ashkenazi and Sephardi traditions. The boys knotted the tzitzit, wrapping the shamash strings around, counting as they worked. When the fringes on all four corners were complete, each boy proudly displayed his finished product, and many chose to swap out the tzitzit they were wearing for their beautiful self-made new ones. Girls in grades four through six learned about the religious significance and history of challah during a challah bake led by Morah Phyllis Tessler. Working in pairs and with the help of parent volunteers, the girls followed the recipe

and measured ingredients themselves, gaining practical cooking experience (and reviewing a little math). They mixed and kneaded the ingredients, squealing as the sticky dough clung to their fingers. Each pair performed the mitzvah of taking challah, reciting the bracha and separating a piece of dough. The rest was left to rise for a few hours, then each girl braided three challot to bake at home for Shabbat. The challah bake was repeated the next day for all students in grades one through three. Boys and girls received balls of dough prepared in advance to enable them to skip right to the fun part– braiding! The younger students gleefully rolled their dough into “snakes” and braided their challot with the help of sixth grade students and parent volunteers. Each child took home their braided challah to bake for Shabbat, and parents reported that they were all delicious.

OCTOBER 26, 2023 | The Jewish Home

The Jewish Home | OCTOBER 26, 2023

OCTOBER 26, 2023 | The Jewish Home

Around the Community

Photo by MHB

The Jewish Home | OCTOBER 26, 2023

Aleph is for Adom at the Shulamith ECC Rav Yaakov Bender, Rosh HaYeshiva of Yeshiva Darchei Torah, delivering the first Alef-Beis “shiur” of the year to the Harriet Keilson Early Childhood Center’s kindergarten talmidim, using one letter per week to teach a specific mitzvah or middah on their level. Alef is for emes – always tell the truth!

Assemblywoman Pheffer Amato Arranges School Safety Meeting with NYPD

ssemblywoman Stacey Pheffer Amato (D-South Queens) organized an urgent gathering of yeshiva administrators with Captain Schultz and 101st Precinct this past Thursday

evening to discuss safety concerns unique to each school. This productive discussion ensured our schools and police remain in constant communication.

Parshas Lech Lecha At Gan Chamesh

he children at Gan Chamesh enjoyed hands-on learning about the parsha that helped them internalize the concept of Avraham Avinu’s

travels and Hashem’s promise that he would have as many children as the stars in the sky and the sand on the ground.

HANC Joins Schools in Washington, D.C.

n Wednesday, a group of sixth grade students from HANC Elementary School in West Hempstead, alongside fifty other young Jewish leaders from ten other prominent yeshivot in New York, visited Washington, D.C. Their mission was to express gratitude to the Biden-Harris Administration for their unwavering support of Israel. The delegates, representing HANC and the entire Jewish community, delivered 18,000 letters of appreciation that were written by children to the President’s staff at the Dwight Eisenhower Executive Office of the White House. During the event, heartfelt letters were read by three students, emphasizing the significance of the U.S.-Israeli alliance and the meaningful support they felt from the administration. The Second Gentleman, Mr. Douglas Emhoff, and other Jewish White House staffers including Ms. Shelley Greenspan, the Jewish Liaison to the White House, and Mr. Amos Hochstein, the Global Infrastructure and Energy Security Coordinator, reciprocated their sentiments, expressing their gratitude for the dedication and appreciating the acknowledgment during these challenging times. This successful mission reflects the high regard, compassion, and respect the White House holds for the Jewish community and the nation of Israel when it is most deserved and needed. In addition to the profound experience of meeting with the representatives of the Administration, they also had the added delight of touring the Dwight Eisenhower Executive Office, the Second Gentleman’s office, and the balcony with breathtaking views of the Washington Monument. Reflecting on this momentous oppor-

tunity, the HANC students expressed their feelings about this special experience. Jonathan Kalter remarked, “I was very nervous because we were representing all the Jewish children at HANC. It was awesome that the four of us were chosen to go to Washington.” Zachary Weitzman reflected, “I thought it was special that we had delivered 18,000 letters. They thanked us for coming and bringing the letters, even though we went to Washington to thank them for what they are doing for Israel.” Hadassah Mottahedeh was deeply touched by this trip: “It was a great privilege and opportunity to be invited to the White House and represent our school and our community.” Mr. Daniel Fine, HANC teacher and chaperone for the student contingent did not hesitate when he was asked to accompany the group to Washington. “I have a lot of family members in Israel whom I care about deeply. Visiting our capital and advocating on behalf of our people has uplifted my spirits and strengthened my resolve. During what has been a week filled with darkness, I have found some much needed solace and sense of hope for the future. I am so grateful to HANC for giving me this opportunity to travel to Washington with the four terrific sixth graders.

OCTOBER 26, 2023 | The Jewish Home

The Jewish Home | OCTOBER 26, 2023

Around the Community

Remembering Chacham Ovadia Yosef, zt”l

t Yeshiva Darchei Torah’s Mesivta Chaim Shlomo, the Sephardic minyan commemorated the tenth yahrtzeit of Chacham Ovadia Yosef, zt”l, with an address by Rav Avraham Benoliel, the s’gan rosh yeshiva of Mikdash Melech Yerushalayim, a yeshiva gedolah in Israel for American and English-speaking talmidim. Rav Benoliel, who was fortunate to have a personal relationship with Cha-

L-R: Rav Avraham Benoliel; Rav Leibish Langer, mashpia; Rav Shlomo Avigdor Altusky, rosh yeshiva; and Rav Daniel Gavrielov, assistant menahel

cham Ovadia, zt”l, shared personal recollections and stories and emphasized the practical lessons that the Sephardic talmidim of Darchei – and indeed all Yidden – can glean from his remarkable life story.

SKA Open House

t’s hard to describe and convey the energy and vibe of the SKA Open House on paper. It’s really something that you need to experience firsthand to understand. It all starts with the students, like most things at SKA. Weeks before the Open House is even a thought, girls are excited for the opportunity to be SKA Ambassadors. What is an Ambassador? Just what it sounds like. It’s an emissary who shares information about all that SKA has to offer, as well as personal anecdotes and experiences. Students at SKA take great pride in their school and that’s why they are so intent on being an Ambassador. Over their time at school, the girls build meaningful relationships with teachers that last well beyond the four years of high school, learn lifelong lessons that guide their futures, and learn more about themselves and their friends, and they are excited to share that. Over 50 girls volunteered to spend their time on a Sunday morning at school giving parent tours, student tours, running a Club Fair, a Student Fair and much, much more. An important focus at SKA always, and especially now, is our love for Israel. At the Open House, our strong commitment and connection to Israel was in full view. Ambassadors’ shirts were adorned with a Magen David featuring the words

“Am Yisrael Chai.” The program began with Tehillim for the safety and security of Israel. Beautiful, student-created tefillah cards were distributed to all guests, featuring tefillot for Eretz Yisrael, the soldiers and those held captive. It was a jam-packed morning with girls from over 19 elementary schools coming together to experience the warmth and magic that SKA offers. Parents and students gained tremendous insight into all of the academic, religious and extra-curricular opportunities SKA has to offer.

OCTOBER 26, 2023 | The Jewish Home

The Jewish Home | OCTOBER 26, 2023

Around the Community

An Evening of Support with One Photos by Ira Thomas Israel Fund

n Motzei Shabbos, October 21, the next generation of the illustrious Davis/Davidowitz family, led by Shevi Perlysky, Ayala Perlysky and Malka Stahler, organized an evening of support and awareness for Israel, bringing over 100 people together for divrei chizuk from Rabbi Shay Schachter and Rabbi Motty Neuberger, to raise funds for the security needs of those on the frontlines in Israel through One Israel Fund, to hear from a soldier about to depart to join his unit in defending our Homeland, and to sing and cry out our hearts at a kumzitz led by an array of talented musicians from the Renov, Stahler and Perlysky families. Rabbi Shay Schachter spoke about how this is a time and moment in history when every Jew has to go beyond their comfort zone and do something above and beyond. There are no excuses

today, he told the audience. We need to come out for community chizuk events. We need to write, call and visit elected officials. We need to speak out publicly on behalf of Israel and against those who glorify terror. And we need to give and raise money for Israel. In less than 72 hours, Shevi, Ayala and Malka arranged everything for the impactful event – from the speakers, to the videos, to the food – because they understood the message that no one can stand on the sidelines today. Thanks to an anonymous match, the event raised over $30,000 for vital equipment for the first responders in the south and Judea and Samaria, which is, but one of many areas of support which One Israel Fund provides to the communities in these areas. To learn more and to donate, visit www.oneisraelfund.org.

OCTOBER 26, 2023 | The Jewish Home

The Jewish Home | OCTOBER 26, 2023

Around the Community

Learning Oceans Apart

ALB teachers Rabbi Steinberg, Rabbi Werner and Morah Wieder have opened their classrooms up to students in Modiin. This week, one mother joined the Zoom to thank Rabbi Werner, HALB, and the students for having her son join

every day. She said, “It strengthens us a lot... and it makes us feel so, so loved.” Rabbi Werner responded saying, “It’s us, we feel the hakarat hatov. Gavriel, you are no different than a Maccabee. You’re staying strong learning Torah.”

Community Comes Together for Israeli Children 5 Towns and Far Rockaway’s Toy Drive a Resounding Success

n a heartwarming display of unity and compassion, the communities of the Five Towns and Far Rockaway have rallied together to provide comfort to Israeli children affected by the recent war. An impressive toy drive initiative saw families donate new toys, each accompanied by personal letters of love and encouragement. This week, Ezer Mizion, a renowned Israeli health support organization, collaborated with Chessed of Flatbush to gather over 100 boxes of toys in Flatbush. Inspired by this success, the Chessed Army, a budding organization with roots in the Five Towns and branches extending to cities like Baltimore and Chicago, joined hands with Ezer Mizion. Their collaboration replicated the success of Flatbush, collecting over 100 boxes from

the Five Towns and Far Rockaway communities. The drive was not limited to physical drop-offs. The modern age saw families ordering toys via Amazon, ensuring their contributions reached the cause. Toy donations catered to children of all age brackets, from Legos to train sets to dolls. Aharon Guttman of North Lawrence remarked on the overwhelming community response, noting how “Amazing Savings was absolutely packed with families on Sunday as people flocked to purchase toys for the children in Israel.” Ezer Mizion didn’t just collaborate; they facilitated the transportation logistics, ensuring the toys will swiftly reach Israel. With the toys being flown to Israel this week, many children displaced by the conflict will soon find a reason to smile. The value of this effort is not just in

the tens of thousands of dollars’ worth of toys collected but also in the intangible bonds it fostered. Families in America were given an opportunity to involve their children in the act of giving. By selecting toys for their peers in Israel, children in the U.S. actively participated in a global act of kindness, connecting them to a larger cause. Local businesses played their part, too. Gourmet Glatt showcased its commitment to philanthropy by donating

boxes for the effort. Sources reveal that the store has donated over 1,300 boxes to various initiatives across New York in the past few weeks. In times of adversity, communities often reveal their true character. The combined efforts of the Five Towns and Far Rockaway, supported by organizations like Ezer Mizion, Chessed of Flatbush, and the Chessed Army, underscore the power of collective action and the boundless potential of human empathy.

5 Ways to Keep Your Family Out of Court After You Die By Monet Binder, Esq.

ou may have heard that there are many advantages to creating a comprehensive estate plan, that includes planning for incapacity during your lifetime. One of the most important benefits for many individuals is that it allows you to help prevent disputes and maintain family harmony among your loved ones. Below are a few steps to follow when establishing your estate plan to help prevent family conflict and litigation over your estate after you’re gone and if you are alive and can’t manage yourself: Act While You Are Healthy Preparing your estate plan while you are alive, healthy and able to properly order your financials, prepare for a medical disabling event while you’re living, and provide for your loved ones after you’re gone is best and most effective. Your family is worth ensuring your goals are met

and your loved ones are protected. Waiting until you think it’s time to think about it is not the best planning option. Confirm Capacity When it comes to disputes over estate planning documents, a common issue is whether the decedent had adequate mental capacity to sign the documents. To avoid this type of lawsuit, if the individual signing the documents is elderly, have an examination by a physician immediately prior to executing the estate planning documents and confirm he or she has the required mental capacity to sign legal documents. Get that confirmation in writing. Get The Family Involved The earlier you can get your family involved in the process of estate planning, the better. If you wait until after death for family members to find out about your estate plan, there could be questions and conflicts that are unresolvable. Consider

working with a lawyer who can understand everyone’s interests and needs to support a cohesive plan for communication and understanding. Professional Executor If you are aware of existing conflicts between your family members and you are concerned there will be fights over your estate but don’t want to address this while you are living, appointing a professional executor may be a wise choice. Although it will cost money, it can prevent expensive lawsuits (much more than hiring this professional will cost) and arguments among your loved ones and could be worth the added cost. Disinheritance If you decide to disinherit somebody, it is important to make your intentions clear and concise. The language used must make it obvious that the disinheritance is intentional. You do not need to provide a reason for why the individual is

being disinherited because this could provide a basis for this person to challenge it. If you do want to provide a reason, do so in a separate, confidential writing that is given to your attorney to hold and use only if the disinherited party tries to contest the disinheritance. Schedule your Planning Session, so we can help you make informed and empowered decisions about life and death, for yourself and the people you love. Begin by calling our office today 718.514.7575. Monet Binder, Esq., has her practice in Queens and Brooklyn, and Lakewood areas, 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.

OCTOBER 26, 2023 | The Jewish Home

The Jewish Home | OCTOBER 26, 2023

OCTOBER 26, 2023 | The Jewish Home

The Jewish Home | OCTOBER 26, 2023

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YSZ HS Girls Unite In Support For Israel

n the midst of ongoing conflict in Israel, YSZ High School stands together, working tirelessly to assist our Israeli brothers and sisters. When times are tough, tefillah becomes our guiding light. Mrs. Zerykier leads daily Mincha gatherings, where our school community recites Tehilim, the misheberach l’chayalim, and other heartfelt tefillot. Not only that, but our girls have also compiled a beautiful Tehilim set and have already completed the entire Sefer Tehilim multiple times! Our YSZ girls have gone the extra mile to show their unwavering support for Israeli soldiers. They’ve crafted heartwarming care packages filled with chocolates and hundreds of handwritten letters. These letters express our admiration for their bravery, heartfelt thanks, and well wishes for their hatzlachah. Together, we stand strong, united in prayer and support for our brothers and sisters in Israel. The girls spent a few days writing letter after letter, and then creating a tremendous packaging line-up in the student center. After creating myriads of packages, the girls bundled them into boxes, and they were sent off to the soldiers! The next big project that the girls undertook was a school-wide challah bake. All day Thursday, the girls were busy whipping up challah dough during their classes. After the challah rose, the entire school did hafrashat challah together. It was beautiful and movin, and an incred-

ible zechut! The girls then painstakingly braided their challot, forming hundreds of loaves. All the challot were then transferred to the ovens of the mechanchot, who graciously opened their homes to their students for a challah-baking party. Hundreds of fragrant loaves were then packaged and sold by the girls to the entire community! When the proceeds were totaled, it came out that baruch Hashem YSZ HS raised thousands of dollars for United Hatzalah of Israel! YSZ High School’s dedication to supporting Israel remains unwavering! From reaching out to government officials to joining global initiatives, our efforts persist. Upcoming Highlights Artisan Bracelets: The girls are crafting beautiful blue and white friendship bracelets to be sold for Israel. Your chance to wear a symbol of unity and show your support! Solidarity Day: Get ready to deck out in blue and white accessories and sweaters on this special day, celebrating our shared love for Israel. Night of Chizuk: YSZ HS is excited to host an inspiring night of strength and encouragement in the school building. Stay tuned for details! Together For Our Nation: The entire a=Am Yisrael continues to work together for our nation, bringing us one step closer to the g’ulah. May we merit to see the yeshuah b’karov. Stay tuned for more updates as YSZ HS continues to make a difference for Israel.

Did you know? According to Hebrew-language Wikipedia, there are seven different ways to eat a Krembo, one of Israel’s favorite snacks.

OCTOBER 26, 2023 | The Jewish Home

The Jewish Home | OCTOBER 26, 2023

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Parshas Noach Comes to Life at BYAM

arshas Noach came to life at Bais Yaakov Ateres Miriam last week! The preschool girls were treated to a visit from a petting zoo. The girls were able to pet and interact with goats, chickens and rabbits. They learned about the proper way to pet the animals and how to care for them. The hands-on experience continued in the classrooms. Nursery students had fun experimenting with water. The kindergarteners explored the many themes

associated with Parshas Noach. They collaged with animal prints, where each girl used different animal prints to create their own unique animal. They also did water experiments such as sink and float, and made rainbow fruit loop necklaces. They also created a life-size, accurate depiction of the teivah with the people on top, animals in the middle, and the garbage on the bottom. It was a week full of experiential learning...and fun!

“What to Say. What to Do” Singles Event

n Monday evening, October 23, Young Israel of Woodmere hosted a two-part singles event in collaboration with YUConnects and various other local organizations. The ongoing Israeli war and the rising antisemitism were at the forefront of this event. Beth Mehlman, the Associate Director of American Jewish Committee (AJC) in the Westchester/Fairfield Region, offered practical tips on how to navigate antisemitism in the workplace. She implored the audience to use their voices to speak up against hate. A passionate discussion ensued during the Question-and-Answer period where the participants shared their own experiences and how they responded to comments

by colleagues. For the second part of the evening, those in attendance had the opportunity to partake in a Kindness Project sponsored by Bear Givers and Singles Doing Chesed, by decorating adorable teddy bears and cards for children in Israel. Everyone appreciated this unique way to connect and network while doing an excellent chesed and offering chizuk to others. “I was glad to be part of a productive evening,” said one young woman. “Everyone wants to do something to help, and we were able to meet, gain some insight and even have a bit of fun.” The YUConnects facilitators are busy setting up dates for those who expressed interest.

To learn more about the resources AJC offers to combat antisemitism and support Israel visit their website https:// www.ajc.org/ YIW Meet Group, a dedicated committee of the Young Israel of Woodmere, plans social events and recurrent activities for singles. Contact them at yiwmeet@gmail.com. Singles Doing Chesed is a new organization where Orthodox professional singles (ages 24-32) have the opportunity to help out local chesed organizations and connect with like-minded singles. Please reach out to Singlesdoingchesed@gmail. com. YUConnects, open to the Jewish community, offers unique social activities,

targeted matchmaking and educational programs to foster healthy relationships toward marriage. Celebrating over 620 engagements, YUConnects welcomes further inquiries by visiting www.yuconnects.com or emailing yuconnects@ yu.edu.

fillot exemplified the theme that from morning until night, HANC “Ignites the Light.” Following the art project, the families joined together in the auditorium for refreshments. After partaking of snacks and fruit platter treats, the families enjoyed an interactive musical show performed by “Jam with Jamie.” The children had a marvelous time dancing and singing, and it was evident that this whole experience was truly enjoyed by all who attended the morning of play at HANC. “The excitement and anticipation of these young prospective students and their families was so wonderful to see,” said HANC ECC Director Trudy Rubinstein. We also want to thank all of the HANC ECC morot for sharing their Sun-

day with us. It was a beautiful program, and we look forward to welcoming everyone back for an individual tour of the ECC!

HANC ECC Open House

n Sunday morning, the doors of HANC’s Early Childhood Center in West Hempstead opened to welcome prospective students and their parents for the annual Open House. The children were eager to begin a morning of play, and the classrooms and teachers were prepared for exciting opportunities for discovery and creativity. Rabbi Ouriel Hazan, Head of HANC’s West Hempstead Campuses, welcomed the new families, and Mrs. Trudy Rubinstein, HANC’s Early Childhood Director, spoke about the robust educational program that HANC provides for the young students. The children then went to visit the classrooms, in which they engaged in various sensory fall-themed activities that included sorting multicolored leaves, apples, and in keeping with this

year’s school theme of “Ignite the Light,” they sorted different colored candles as well. Geo-boards for creating letters and wooden beads were also provided for creative play. In addition, the children were delighted to explore the sensory tables that included gel alphabet letters, translucent digit blocks and magnetic building blocks. Incorporating STEM color and light discovery, building creativity and sensory exploration illustrated the multi-faceted approach to learning that is at the core of a HANC Early Childhood Education. Following the classroom playtime, each child had the opportunity to decorate their own Lucite picture frame with glitter stars and moons. The top of the frame displayed “Modeh Ani” and the bottom “HaMalach HaGoel.” These te-

OCTOBER 26, 2023 | The Jewish Home

The Jewish Home | OCTOBER 26, 2023

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History Made as More than 50,000 Begin First Machzor of Amud HaYomi Leading Gedolim Deliver Pesicha Shiurim as Over 500 New Shiurim Open in 22 Countries Throughout the World

HaRav Shimon Galei giving a Shiur Pesicha for Dirshu’s new Amud HaYomi Program

By Chaim Gold

“A

mud HaYomi is phenomenal! It is a manifestation of ribui Torah, increasing

Torah not only in quantity but even more importantly, in quality. The fact that thousands upon thousands are beginning this new limud and gaining a better, deeper understanding of what

HaRav Dovid Cohen delivering a Shiur Pesicha on Masechta Brachos

they learn is a tremendous tikkun,” exclaimed HaGaon HaRav Dovid Cohen, shlita, venerated Rosh Yeshiva of Chevron in a unique shiur pesicha that he gave to Masechta Brachos in honor of Klal Yisrael’s new Amud HaYomi program that began this past Rosh Chodesh Cheshvan with Daf Beis Amud Aleph of Masechta Brachos. Rav Dovid Cohen was not the only gadol to deliver a pesicha shiur. In light of the precarious security situation in Eretz Yisrael precipitated by the ongoing war with Hamas, large gatherings to mark the momentous beginning of a new, transformative limud were not feasible. Rather, small shiurei pesicha were given by numerous Gedolei Yisroel. Attendees and speakers at the pesicha given by Rav Dovid Cohen included HaGaon HaRav HaRav Nisson Kaplan, shlita, and Hagaon HaRav Yisroel Yitzchok Zilberman, shlita. Other pesicha shiurim were given by HaGaon HaRav Avigdor Nebenzahl, shlita, venerated Rav of the Old City of Yerushalayim; the Rachmastrivka Rebbe, shlita; the Boyaner Rebbe, shlita; HaGaon HaRav Messoud Ben Shimon, shlita, Sefardic Rav of Bnei Brak; HaGaon HaRav Avrohom Salim, shlita, Rosh Yeshivas Meor HaTorah; HaGaon HaRav Shraga Shteinman, shlita, Rosh Yeshiva of Yeshiva Orchos Torah; HaGaon HaRav Yaakov Meir Stern, shlita, talmid muvhak of Rav Shmuel Wosner, zt”l; HaGaon HaRav Chaim Peretz Berman, shlita, Rosh Yeshiva at

the Ponovezh Yeshiva and numerous others. Shiurei pesicha were also held in America with prominent speakers such as HaGaon HaRav Hillel David, shlita, Yoshev Rosh of the Vaad Roshei Yeshiva of Torah Umesorah, a member of the Moetzes Gedolei HaTorah, and rav of Kehillas Yeshiva Shaarei Torah; HaGaon HaRav Shlomo Eisenberger, shlita, Rosh Yeshivas Telshe; and Rav Dovid Hofstedter, shlita, Nasi Dirshu. A New Level of Success! The Amud HaYomi has taken off successfully at a level that even surprised the hanhala of Dirshu, the organization that has established and organized this new limud for Klal Yisrael. Nearly 600 new shiurim have opened across the world, with more than 100 new shiurim in America alone. Well over 50,000 people worldwide have joined and started Shas with this new Amud HaYomi cycle. 187 chaburos and kollelei erev have already adopted the new Amud HaYomi as their limud. Access to world renowned Amud HaYomi maggidei shiur is available on major platforms such as Kol Halashon, All Daf, Torah Anytime, Dirshu Global and Dirshu’s dedicated Amud HaYomi hotline. Another important aspect of the Amud HaYomi launch is the fact that it took place at a very precarious time for Klal Yisrael. Numerous Gedolei Yisrael pointed out that it is certainly not a coincidence that at this difficult time

Around the Community

3 Shuls, 3 Times of Day…1 Limud! The amazing outpouring of enthusiasm for the new Amud HaYomi has been astounding. One of the important members of Dirshu in America relates, “I received a phone call from a friend today, saying, ‘This morning when I went to Shacharis in my shul in Flatbush, there was an Amud HaYomi shiur beginning right after Shacharis. Later in the day, I went to a different shul for Mincha and I saw that they too had a new Amud HaYomi shiur. When I went to yet a third shul for Maariv, I again found a new Amud HaYomi shiur that was slated to finish just before Maariv. “I realized that if Hashem sent me to three shuls in one day, each of which had an Amud HaYomi shiur, it is time that I, too, join the Amud HaYomi!” Not a Replacement for Daf HaYomi Upon conclusion of his intricate shiur pesicha on the first blatt in Masechta Brachos, Rav Dovid Cohen remarked, “I want to clarify one thing, the Amud HaYomi is not necessarily a limud that comes in place of the Daf HaYomi. Rather, it is a track for those who find the Daf HaYomi difficult. The Daf HaYomi is something that remains the eternal inheritance of Klal Yisrael. It is a great matana that Rav Meir Shapiro gave to Klal Yisrael. Fortunate is the one who is able to learn the daf! Unfortunately, however, there are many who cannot learn the daf for various reasons. The Amud HaYomi is not, in any way, coming to infringe on that legacy. “For people who are learning the Daf HaYomi properly, the Amud HaYomi can be a great chazarah tool to review and retain what one learns. Thus, in a way, the Amud HaYomi is also a continuation of the legacy of Rav Meir Shapiro. It enables people to learn a certain amount every day, weekday, Shabbos and Yom Tov and complete Shas. Yes, it will take fourteen years, but for those who need the time to properly understand and retain, it is an amazing gift

to Klal Yisrael,” Rav Cohen concluded. Rav Messoud Ben Shimon instituted the learning of Amud HaYomi in his yeshiva, as the bekius learning for night seder. “If we learn the amud properly,” he said, “and institute both a chazarah and testing schedule I think there will be an amazing toeles in the learning.” Indeed, Rav Avrohom Salim, Rosh Yeshiva of Yeshiva Meor HaTorah and a member of the Shas Moetzet Chachmei HaTorah, said, “Now Klal Yisrael finds itself in a great tzarah. We all know that Torah protects and saves. There are two components needed at a time like this. The component of Torah, learning Torah and the component of tefillah, davening and crying out to Hashem to save us. We need so much tefillah now, but one of the difficulties that we encounter is that it is difficult to daven or say Tehillim all day. It is difficult to maintain the hisorerus even when we are supposed to daven. The Amud HaYomi can be the Torah that is in place of tefillah.” “A Kabbalah Tova is Considered Complete by Hashem” HaGaon HaRav Binyomin Finkel, shlita, Mashigach of the Mir Yeshiva of Yerushalayim, encapsulated the importance and beauty of the Amud HaYomi especially during this difficult time for Klal Yisrael when he said, “It is important to note that Mashiach is coming very soon. When he comes, Hashem will test us on the entire Torah. I don’t know what mark we are going to get… We have started the Amud HaYomi today. I know the first Mishnah, the first amud, but what will come after that…? I will tell you. The Amud HaYomi is our hatzalah. Even if Mashiach will come tomorrow, the very fact that we have started, that we have accepted upon ourselves to learn an amud every day, not just superficially but to really invest time and effort to understand, that kabbalah tova is considered by Hashem as if we have completed it. Mashiach can come tomorrow, and he will greet every one of us as Shas Yidden! Hashem knows we started because we want to know Shas. “Yes! In one second, we can transcend from afeilah l’orah, from the great darkness that we see in the world today to great light! May it come soon!”

YCQ Students Visit White House to Thank Biden Administration Photo credit: for Israel Support Emhoff @SecondGentlemen on X

YCQ Student Elisheva Schutzman reads a letter of support to Second Gentlemen Douglas Emhoff

alya Shalamoff, Elisheva Schutzman, Ysrael Gherman, Aiden Olsen, and Associate Principal Mrs. Melissa Cohen had the opportunity to visit the White House and personally deliver thousands of letters of appreciation to President Biden and his administration for their unwavering support of Israel on Wednesday, October 18. They joined a group of other students from local yeshivot and met with Second Gentlemen Mr. Doug Emhoff. Elisheva Schutzman was just 1 of 3 students who had the opportunity to present before Mr. Emhoff and she eloquently expressed hakarat hatov on behalf of the Jewish community. He personally guaranteed that the letters would make their way to the President after his return from Israel. In addition to meeting with Mr. Emhoff, a proud Jew, the delegation had the opportunity to hear from other Jewish staffers. White House staff members were visibly moved at the presence of such a large and proud Jewish group and they were extremely appreciative of the

delegation. The mission was an amazing display of achdut and was a true Kiddush Hashem. Mrs. Cohen described the experience as bringing light into a world that has been terribly dark in recent weeks. Ysrael, Aiden, Talya, and Elisheva echoed that sentiment and felt that they truly felt part of something special. They also noted how they felt assured that the administration truly took the time to listen and affirmed their genuine support for the Jewish state. First and foremost, YCQ thanks President Biden and the United States for their unwavering support of Israel. The yeshiva additionally expresses gratitude to Shelley Greenspan, The White House Liaison to the American Jewish Community, Cynthia Bernstein, the Director of Management and Administration of Office of the Vice President, Rabbi Shalom Axelrod, and Rabbi Shay Schachter of the Young Israel of Woodmere, for being instrumental in organizing the visit.

OCTOBER 26, 2023 | The Jewish Home

for Klal Yisrael when we so desperately need the zechusim and koach of Torah, so many tens of thousands of Yidden are accepting to immerse themselves in a new daily limud. Undoubtedly, the zechus of Torah has the power to save us at this perilous time.

While not being able to return after Sukkos, Rabbi Boruch Oppen, principal of Yeshiva Ateres Eitz Chaim, made sure to continue not only keeping up a kesher with talmidim with personal calls but gave daily chizuk and shiurim from Eretz Yisrael.

The Jewish Home | OCTOBER 26, 2023

1. *

TJH

Centerfold

Statue of Liberty Trivia 1. On October 28th of what year was the Statue of Liberty dedicated? a. 1866 b. 1886 c. 1906 d. 1926 2. How tall is the Statue of Liberty from the bottom of her feet to the tip of her torch? a. 125 feet b. 151 feet c. 305 feet d. 354 feet 3. How many steps lead up to the crown of the Statue of Liberty (meaning from armpit to crown)? a. 146 b. 154 c. 168 d. 204 4. Approximately how many times has the Statue of Liberty been struck by lightning? a. 0 b. 5 c. 27 d. 600 5. Which country gifted the Green Lady to the U.S.? a. Mexico

b. France c. England d. Switzerland 6. What was the original color of the Statue of Liberty before it turned green due to oxidation? a. White b. Brown c. Red d. Yellow 7. What would be the actual shoe size of Lady Liberty? a. 43 b. 91

c. 259 d. 879 8. In 1876, the sculpturer in charge of creating the Statue of Liberty was accused of constructing it the wrong way, which would likely result in it never being completed. Who leveled this accusation? a. The New York Times b. U.S. government c. Engineers at MIT d. Hockers in shul Answers 1-B 2-B 3-A 4-D 5-B 6-B 7-D 8-A Wisdom key 7-8 correct: You have visited the SOL way too many times. We need to get you to Great Adventures next Chol Hamoed. 4-6 correct: Not bad, you should stand up tall! 0-3 correct: Your head and the SOL’s head have a lot in common— lots of empty space.

When I asked to hold the Havdalah candle, I didn’t mean for THIS long! Hey kid in the back of that Odyssey, on the Verrazano Bridge, traveling three hours for a Chol Hamoed trip—I see you, too! (Now tell your mother that you still want to know, “Are we there yet?”) No wonder my waist is a size 35— I haven’t moved in almost 140 years! Thank goodness I put a lot of deodorant on before they stuck me here. When I say, “Give me your tired, your poor, your huddled masses,” I don’t mean ALL of them! Well, I’m green, and I DIDN’T die. Would be nice if one of you offered me a chair.

Do I look as bad in this green robe as the person trying to get you to use Liberty Tax Services? It’s pretty hard to hail a cab around here! Yes, my book has been on the same page for 140 years, but at least I have a book, better than staring at an iPhone all day. Sorry, call me “old school,” but I will not make pucker lips for your selfie with me! I can never get a shidduch date— people say I’m too stiff. Did you have to put me so close to New Jersey? Any way I can get a coffee break? Can you please NOT make a minyan for Mincha in my head?!

You Gotta be Kidding Me! An American, an Englishman, and a Russian are on a plane flying in the sky. Suddenly, the American puts his hand outside and exclaims, “Wonderful! The land of the free is below us.” The Englishman and the Russian look at him and ask, “How do you possibly know?” The American says, “I put my hand outside and was able to touch the Statue of Liberty, hence we’re above the U.S.” After flying for a while, the Englishman puts his hand outside and states, “Great! We are above Great Britain now.” The American and Russian look at each other and ask him, “How do you know?” The Englishman replies, “I put my hand out the window and I could touch the Big Ben. So I know we are above Great Britain.” They continue their flight, when suddenly, the Russian puts out his hand and yells, “Ah, Mother Russia...” The American and Englishman start laughing and ask him, “How could you know?” The Russian looks at them seriously and says, “My watch was stolen...”

OCTOBER 26, 2023 | The Jewish Home

Things the Statue of Liberty Would Say If She Could Talk

The Jewish Home | OCTOBER 26, 2023

Torah Thought

Parshas Lech Lecha By Rabbi Berel Wein

he Torah now proceeds from the general and universal story of humankind to concentrate on the particular and individual story of the founding of the Jewish people. The story of Avraham and Sarah, their difficulties and challenges, their loneliness and spiritual quest, form the essence of this parsha and the next one as well. In this life story, they create the prototype for all later Jewish and familial society. The Torah, unlike many more pious modern books of today, avoids painting

for us a blissful picture of righteous people being blessed with serenity and perfection of character and behavior. Rather, it shows us the ever-present challenges to faith in the Al-mighty, the difficulties of maintaining domestic harmony and of creating a positive worldview while surrounded by enemies, jealousy and an immoral general culture. Tradition and the Mishna crown Avraham with the laurel of having withstood and overcome ten major challenges in his lifetime. It is interesting that the great

Jewish commentators to the Torah differ as to which ten challenges the Mishna is referring to. Thus, if we combine all of their opinions, there are a significantly greater number of challenges in the life of Avraham than just ten. The Torah’s portrayal of these events – the wandering and rootlessness of coming to the promised land of Israel, the disloyalty of Lot, the difficulties with Sarah

ham and Sarah. Nations and beliefs will vie for the honor of being the descendants and followers of Avraham. Millions will adopt his name and follow his monotheistic creed. He and Sarah will be some of the most influential personages in world history. They will not avoid trouble and travail in their personal and family lives but great will be their reward in spiritual and historical achievement.

There is a tenor and tone of optimism and fulfilled purpose that permeates the entire parsha.

and Hagar, the behavior of Pharaoh and his courtiers, to mention some of them – all portray for us a life of struggle, of pain, of striving and of hurdles to overcome. In spite of all of these very troubling details and incidents as recorded for us in the parsha, there is a tenor and tone of optimism and fulfilled purpose that permeates the entire parsha. Even the cursory reader senses that Avraham and Sarah are up to something great – that this is no ordinary tale of pioneering and struggle. There are G-dly covenants and blessings, commitments made that surely will be met and a vision presented of a great and influential people and of a holy land. G-d’s relationship with humankind generally will be centered in His relationship to the family and progeny of Avra-

As such, they truly are the forerunners of the story of the Jewish people – a small and lonely people, wanderers and beset by inner disloyalty and external persecution – which nevertheless is optimistic and vastly influential in a manner that belies its physical numbers and temporal power. Generally, Avraham is the father of many nations and of all monotheistic believers. But particularly, he is the founder and father of the Jewish people whose march through human history parallels the life of Avraham itself. And, the G-dly covenant and blessings will assuredly be fulfilled through the accomplishments of the Jewish people, its nationhood and land. Shabbat shalom.

OCTOBER 26, 2023 | The Jewish Home

The Jewish Home | OCTOBER 26, 2023

From the Fire Parshas Lech Lecha

Holy Brother By Rav Moshe Weinberger Adapted for publication by Binyomin Wolf

here are two difficult aspects of Avraham Avinu that, when we understand them, teach us a fundamental key to our success in exile. The pesukim (Bereishis 12:1-2) say, “And Hashem said to Avram, ‘Go from your land, from your birthplace, and from your father’s house, to the land which I will show you. And I will make you a great nation, and I will bless you and make your name great and you shall be a blessing.’” Rashi explains that this is a reference to the first paragraph in Shemonah Esrei in which we thank Hashem for His relationship with Avraham, Yitzchak, and Yaakov, our Avos: “And I will make you a great nation,” refers to that which we say, “the G-d of Avraham.” “And I will bless you,” refers to that which we say, “the G-d of Yitzchak.” “And make your name great,” refers to that which we say, “the G-d of Yaakov.” You might think that [the first blessing in Shemonah Esrei] would conclude [by referencing] all [of the Avos]. The pasuk therefore says, “And you shall be a blessing,” meaning, “We conclude [the blessing] with a reference to you.” The question is why Hashem tells Avraham that every Jew throughout the generations will conclude the first blessing of Shemonah Esrei with a reference only to him, instead of to Yaakov Avinu, who was the final one of the three Avos. That fact alone might indicate that we should conclude with a reference to Yaakov. In addition, the Midrash (Bereishis Raba 76:1) calls Yaakov “the choicest of the Avos” and says about him (ibid. at 68:12), “And his image is carved on the Throne of Glory.” Why does the blessing thanking Hashem for His relationship with the Avos conclude only with Avraham and not Yaakov?

The episode in which Avraham descends into Egypt with Sarah because of the famine in Eretz Yisroel is also very difficult understand. When Avraham realizes that the Egyptians will kill him if they learn that he is Sarah’s husband, he says to her (Bereishis 12:13), “Please say that you are my sister so that it will go well for me on your account, and my soul will live because of you.” How can we understand Avraham’s decision to endanger Sarah for his own financial gain and to save his own life? The problem is exacerbated by the fact that Avraham and Yitzchak both repeated this same strategy among the Plishtim. The Ramban even says that Avraham committed “a great sin, unintentionally” by endangering Sarah. The Ksav V’hakabalah, Zohar, and many others go to great lengths to defend and explain Avraham Avinu’s decision. But this simply underscores the difficulty in understanding how a tzaddik like Avra-

ham could tell Sarah to lie by saying that she is his sister. We can, however, understand Avraham’s strategy in Egypt and his and Yitzchak’s strategy among the Plishtim in light of a teaching of the Biala Rebbe, zy”a, in his sefer Divrei Bina. The Rebbe’s comments are based on how Avraham explains his deception to Avimelech, king of the Plishtim (Bereishis 20:13): “And when G-d caused me to wander from my father’s house [when I went into exile], I said to her, ‘This is your kindness which you will do with me, wherever we go, say of me, ‘He is my brother.’” The Biala Rebbe explains as follows: It is known that the experiences of the children [the Jewish people] mirror the experiences of the Avos. And with their experiences, they teach us how the Jewish people can survive among the nations in their exile. That is why [Avraham] said, “And when G-d caused me to wander from my fa-

ther’s house,” meaning: when the Jewish people will go into exile. “This is your kindness,” meaning that we ask the holy Divine Presence to perform acts of kindness for Hashem’s nation of Israel. But how will this kindness reach us? It is through: “wherever we go” in our exile, “say of me, he is my brother.” This means that we must treat one another in a way of brotherhood, friendship, and unity. And through this, we will merit kindness from Above for the Jewish people. The Torah can be understood on the levels of its simple meaning, hint, homiletical meaning, and secrets of Torah. The Biala Rebbe’s teaching is a hint or homiletical teaching and is not intended to be the simple meaning or comport with the strict rules of grammar. The Rebbe is teaching us that the key to our survival in exile and to drawing down blessings from above is that every Jew must say to one another, “You are my brother,” “You are my sister.” Hashem told Avraham, “We conclude with you.” We need Avraham’s exile strategy now, at the “conclusion” of our exile, more than ever. With all of the social media and 24-hour connectivity, so many of us feel isolated. We long and thirst for a good, caring word from another person, to know that someone truly cares about us. We want to hear someone call us, “Brother!” “Sister!” A person can give life to another with a kind word. Rav Levi Yitzchak of Berditchev, zy”a, teaches that the pasuk (Shir Hashirim 1:7), “Tell me, you whom my soul loves,” means, on a deeper level, that each Jew is secretly crying out to the other: “Tell me that you love me with all of your soul!” None of us are mind readers. We cannot rely on those we love to know that we love them in our hearts if we say

the key to thriving in the midst of this conclusion to our exile: the open expression of love, friendship, and brotherhood between Jews. That draws down tremendous protection and blessing from Above. And this concept is quoted in the Gemara Yerushalmi (Peah 16a): “The generation of Dovid were all tzaddikim, but because there was infighting among them, they went out to war and then fell.” Dovid therefore said about his own men (Tehillim 57:5), “Their teeth are like spears and arrows, their tongue is like a sharp sword.” But the Gemara continues, “But the generation of Achav were idol worshipers, but because there was not infighting among them, they went out to war and were victorious.” They may have had major religious, spiritual problems. But they lived in a state of brotherhood among them, so Hashem caused them to be successful in all of their efforts. Every shul and extended family has one person who acts friendly and caring toward others but figuratively stabs others in the back with his words behind closed doors. When he speaks to the rav or rosh yeshiva, everything he says is in the third person, spoken with the utmost respect. But he then whispers sarcastically and derisively about them to his follow-

ers. Such people poison families by bearing tales and spreading poisonous gossip about one family member to another. Such toxic individuals are the antithesis of the brotherhood and love that every Jew longs to experience from others. A years ago, I flew to Eretz Yisroel for a chasunah. When I arrived at my seat, which was next to a young, non-observant Israeli man, he looked up from his laptop and when he saw that I was a chareidi looking person, he made no effort to disguise his disappointment. But these teachings about love and brotherhood were on my mind, so I said, “Shalom Aleichem!” Unfortunately, he barely acknowledged my greeting with his eyes and returned his attention immediately to his computer. I knew that we were at the beginning of a ten-hour flight, so I did not allow myself to become discouraged even though I am shy by nature and do not naturally have Shlomo Carlebach’s “Holy brother” approach to greeting everyone around me. From time to time, I asked my neighbor about himself and tried to make conversation, but at the beginning, he answered me monosyllabically and barely acknowledged my presence. But my perseverance eventually paid off. By the end of the flight, Avishai

and I became good friends, and we hoped to stay in touch. In his initial silence, he was really saying, “Tell me that you love me with all your soul! I need to first know that you love me, despite the fact that I am not observant. Only then can I let my guard down and show you my love.” We must turn to each other and say, “Sister, how are you feeling today?” “Brother, I haven’t seen you in a while. How are you?” If we can get out of the tendency to become self-absorbed from time to time to tell a spouse, child, relative, or friend, “I love you with all my soul,” Hashem will open up the gates for us. May we merit to learn the lesson of Avraham, who was called Hashem’s friend (Yirmiyahu 11:15) and thereby merit to see how we are all holy brothers and holy sisters. May Hashem bring us back home to Yerushalayim, with the rebuilding of the Beis Hamikdash, which will be built on the portion of the one (Binyomin) referred to (Devarim 33:12) as “Hashem’s friend” soon in our days!

Rav Moshe Weinberger, shlita, is the founding Morah d’Asrah of Congregation Aish Kodesh in Woodmere, NY, and serves as leader of the new mechina Emek HaMelech.

OCTOBER 26, 2023 | The Jewish Home

nothing. We must tell them. A wife must hear from her husband that he loves her. There are men who are shocked when they hear that their wives have no idea whether they are loved or not. But their wives want to call out to them, “Tell me that you love me! I know in a general sense that you love me but at any given moment, I do not know whether those feelings are still there. Let me hear you say, ‘I love you so much!’” A child must hear from his or her parents, “I love you more than anything!” Unity is so powerful that the pasuk says about the generation of the dispersion (Bereishis 11:1), “the entire earth was one language and uniform words.” People understood one another. Hashem said about them (ibid. at 6), “And now it shall not be withheld from them everything that they plan to do.” Most commentaries read this as a rhetorical question: “Shall I not withhold from [stop] them from doing everything that they plan to do!?” But it can also be read as a statement: Because they live together in a state of brotherhood and mutual understanding, I shall not withhold from them anything which they plan to do. I will give them everything they require. This teaching from Avraham Avinu is

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The Jewish Home | OCTOBER 26, 2023

Think. Feel.Grow.

The Journey to Yourself By Rabbi Shmuel Reichman

will never forget what happened that night. After going to hundreds of lectures, and giving quite a few myself, I thought I’d seen it all. But I had never seen anything quite like this. To give you a little background, there are protocols for the introductory process of a speech. At major events, like the one taking place that night, there are always two microphones. The first is for the person who gets up to introduce the main speaker. After finishing his introduction, he walks off with his microphone, and the second microphone is waiting on stage for the main speaker. But not that night. That night, there was only one microphone. After the introductory speaker concluded his opening remarks, the main speaker walked onto the stage and headed towards the podium. But as you already guessed, the introductory speaker was still holding onto the only microphone. At this point, the main speaker was expecting him to simply hand over the microphone so that he could begin his speech. But that’s not what happened. Instead, the introducto-

ry speaker just kept hold of the microphone. He then took a deep breath and said something I will never forget.

A Journey Into the Unknown When Hashem commands Avraham to leave his home and embark on a journey, Avraham is told “Lech lecha me’artzecha... Go for yourself, from your land….” (Bereishis 12:1). This directive is quite strange. Avraham is told where to leave from, but he is not told his destination. What kind of journey lacks a destination? Generally, the destination, not the starting point, is most important. For example, imagine being invited to a wedding, but instead of being told where the wedding will take place, you are told only where to leave from. Good luck getting to that wedding! The fact that Avraham is not told his destination is not merely a practical issue; it is a fundamental challenge to the idea of a meaningful venture. In order to accomplish anything great, we must first identify a clear target and then determine the path required to get there.

One does not accidentally achieve spiritual greatness; it requires extreme focus and dedication. A great journey must begin with a clear goal and destination. As we say every Friday evening in Lecha Dodi: “Sof ma’aseh be’machshavah techilah,” the physical result originates first within the mind. Only when we first determine a clear destination can we achieve the extraordinary. If so, why wasn’t Avraham given a clear destination for his journey?

Lech Lecha: No Simple Journey The answer to this question lies within the words “lech lecha.” While this phrase is often translated as “go for yourself,” it can also be translated as “go to yourself.” Avraham was commanded to embark on a journey toward “himself,” toward his true and ultimate self. In a genuine journey to the self, we don’t know the destination; we don’t know where it will take us. All we know is where we’re leaving from; where we are right now. Only once we arrive can

we retroactively see where the journey was taking us all along. Of course, we have goals and proposed directions, but anyone who has achieved anything of substance knows that the vision they once had is nothing like the actual journey they took. The goals create the process, but the actual journey transcends the limited goals that initially motivated the journey. The inability to fully understand the destination of one’s own growth can be compared to a child’s inability to grasp a complex scientific or spiritual concept. Imagine explaining to a young child the relationship between quantum mechanics and general relativity, or the unique connection between the physical and spiritual world, or the different approaches to a complex Gemara sugya (topic in Talmud). The concepts would be completely beyond the child’s comprehension, as his limited intellect cannot grasp such sophisticated and abstract ideas. The same is true for each of us: imagine meeting a younger version of yourself and explaining all the

of us is entrusted with this mission as well – each one of us must embark on our own lech lecha journey to our ultimate selves.

The Punchline to Your Story There is probably something bothering you, something in the back of your mind making you a bit uncomfortable. Did you forget

without an ending, without a purpose, is not a story worth telling. The same is true for our lives: we need a destination. We are all part of a larger story, but we’re also writing our own individual stories. Hashem created us in this world with unlimited potential, but that was only the “setup,” the beginning of our story. Without a purposeful direction, a clear goal, and

A great journey must begin with a clear goal and destination.

something, is there something missing? Perhaps it’s the fact that the introductory story had a setup, but no punchline; a beginning, but no conclusion. Did you think I forgot about that? Everyone will agree that a story needs an ending; unless a story goes somewhere, it’s pointless. The purpose of a setup is to lead towards a conclusion, towards a destination. A story

a deeper understanding of who you are and who you are meant to be, the setup lacks its true meaning. We need to make this a meaningful journey, a story of growth, creativity, and contribution. And while the ultimate destination remains unknown, the journey towards it is the essence of our lech lecha mission. That is why I wrote my parsha sefer, “The Journey to Your Ultimate Self.” I

hope it will serve as a guide and tool as you embark on your personal lech lecha journey towards your ultimate self.

Rabbi Shmuel Reichman is the author of the bestselling book, “The Journey to Your Ultimate Self,” which serves as an inspiring gateway into deeper Jewish thought. He is an educator and speaker who has lectured internationally on topics of Torah thought, Jewish medical ethics, psychology, and leadership. He is also the founder and CEO of Self-Mastery Academy, the transformative online self-development course based on the principles of high-performance psychology and Torah. After obtaining his BA from Yeshiva University, he received Semicha from Yeshiva University’s RIETS, a master’s degree in education from Azrieli Graduate School, and a master’s degree in Jewish Thought from Bernard Revel Graduate School. He then spent a year studying at Harvard as an Ivy Plus Scholar. He currently lives in Chicago with his wife and son where he is pursuing a PhD at the University of Chicago. To invite Rabbi Reichman to speak in your community or to enjoy more of his deep and inspiring content, visit his website: ShmuelReichman.com.

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OCTOBER 26, 2023 | The Jewish Home

things you will eventually accomplish, all the ideas you will learn, and all the experiences you will have. Your younger self would simply be unable to grasp the full meaning of this conversation. Now imagine instead that your older self does the same to your present self. The same would happen; you would not even begin to understand all that you will eventually become. You can have lofty goals and a clear direction, but that simply creates the journey. What will actually happen is a mystery. Therefore, to genuinely venture on the path toward your true self requires a leap of faith into the unknown, ready to embrace whatever future Hashem has in store for you. This is why Hashem didn’t give Avraham a clear destination. In a journey to the self, all that we know is the starting point; the destination remains to be discovered. We don’t know what we’ll find along the journey, the challenges we’ll face, what people will think, or if we will even succeed. To embark on such a journey, we need to step outside our comfort zone, overcome our fears, and take the unpaved and uncharted path, the path toward greatness. Avraham was not the only one entrusted with a lech lecha journey. Each

The Jewish Home | OCTOBER 26, 2023

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Delving into the Daf

Marrying for Money By Rabbi Avrohom Sebrow

s there anything wrong with a man marrying a woman solely for her money? What about if money is just one of a man’s criteria? What if he needs his in-laws to support him while he pursues his college degree? What if he needs his in-laws to support him while he learns in kollel? The Gemara (Kiddushin 70a) seems to address these issues clearly. Rabba bar Rav Adda says that Rav says: In the case of anyone who marries a woman only for the sake of money, he will have offspring who will act inappropriately, as it is stated: “They have dealt treacherously against the L-rd, for they have begotten strange children; now shall the new moon devour them with their portions” (Hosea 5:7). Rabba bar Rav Adda explains the end of verse: And lest you say that at least the money that they received as dowry was spared, although they suffer from the acts of their offspring, the verse states: “Now shall the new moon devour them with their portions,” meaning their property shall be consumed quickly. And lest you say his portion will be lost but not the portion of his wife, the verse states “their portions” in the plural. And lest you say this will occur after a long time, but in the interim he will benefit from the money, the verse states: “The new moon.” This seems to be an open-and-shut question. Someone who marries a woman for her money, will not only have children that act inappropriately but will be cursed that the money that he thought to gain will be lost as well. But the Rivash says not to rush to conclusions. The Gemara is discussing marrying a woman of tainted lineage or is possibly even forbidden to him. This is a woman who would not otherwise be on the young man’s radar if not for her money. If he chooses to go ahead with the questionable

shidduch, simply due to financial reasons, he will end up suffering the consequences. The Rema (EH 2) quotes this Rivash as accepted halacha. This would seem to indicate that if the woman does not have a tainted lineage, he may indeed marry her for her money. However, the Beis Yosef quotes the Orchos Chaim who in turn quotes the Raavad, who might have a different understanding of this Gemara. He writes, “The custom is not to give a large dowry to one’s daughter. Someone who is particular and fights about money the wife is bringing into the marriage will not be successful and the marriage will not be happy one. Because the money one takes for his wife is not just money. And it is appropriate that one should not remain a bachelor or delay the marriage of his fiancée on account of money. That money will not bring success… And upon these types of people, it is written, ‘Whomever marries a woman for money…’” Fascinatingly, the Rema seems to quote the above as well as accepted halacha. Is the Raavad arguing on the Rivash? The Chelkas Mechokeik says he is not. The Rivash discussed marrying a woman of tainted lineage as but one negative example of marrying someone for money. The Raavad is adding other examples. Anyone who delays his marriage because he is waiting to find a girl who has her own significant resources or will bring to the marriage guaranteed parental support will also suffer the horrible consequences cited in the Gemara. Another situation is where the bride’s parents promised a large dowry and unfortunately could not make the payment. The groom should not delay the wedding until the parents can come up with the funds. If the groom does delay, that would be considered marrying for the sake of money. The Chelkas Mechokeik therefore permits a man to use money as a criterion for

a shidduch, even if it’s the only criterion. However, he cannot delay fulfilling his mitzvah to get married on account of not being able to find a rich girl. He may certainly not delay his own planned wedding until his in-laws procure the proper funds. The Vilna Gaon disagrees. He understands the Raavad to categorically reject the Rivash’s limitation of the Gemara. Anyone who marries for the sake of money will, unfortunately, suffer the consequences mentioned in the Gemara. The Raavad was simply citing some examples. However, the Raavad’s primary position is expressed in his first few sentences: “Someone who is particular and fights about money the wife is bringing into the marriage will not be successful and the marriage will not be happy one. Because the money one takes for his wife is not just money.” The Vilna Gaon spells out what is considered marrying for money: Anyone, who will not go through with a shidduch simply on account of money, is considered to be one marrying for money. Therefore, according to the Vilna Gaon, suppose on a second date the topic of parental support comes up. The girl admits that her parents can’t support. According to the Vilna Gaon, the boy may not discontinue the shidduch. Before he starts dating a particular girl, he is free to pick a resume of a girl who has parental support. But he may not stop the current shidduch in progress. It seems, according to the Chelkas Mechokeik, a boy may, if he has other suitable suggestions lined up. The Chasam Sofer seems to understand the Gemara as the Chelkas Mechokeik

does, but opines that one in practice should follow the Vilna Gaon. After all, doesn’t parnassah come from Hashem? The Aruch HaShulchan seems to rule like the Chelkas Mechokeik. He writes (EH 2:2-3), “However, if someone marries an isha keshaira for the sake of her money, meaning without her money, he would marry someone else, that is not considered a sin. In fact, it is appropriate to do so, if one is a Torah Scholar. Through this money, he will not be busy earning a livelihood. And so is the custom of anashim yesharim, to take a scholar as a son-inlaw, and to support him for a number of years (kammah shanim) that he may sit and learn. There is no greater mitzvah than this. Through this, the parents will be successful in their business. Still, if the parents promised support and can’t pay, the chosson should not delay the marriage and fight with his in-laws. That will never be successful. Rather, whatever his mother-in-law and father-in-law give him, he should take while being very appreciative and then he will be successful.“ This article is not meant to serve as a definitive resource for this highly complex issue. It is simply intended to engender discussion. Rabbi Avrohom Sebrow is a rebbe at Yeshiva Ateres Shimon in Far Rockaway. In addition, Rabbi Sebrow leads a daf yomi chaburah at Eitz Chayim of Dogwood Park in West Hempstead, NY. He can be contacted at ASebrow@ gmail.com.

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If Only We Had Begin By Gedaliah Borvick

Signing the Egypt-Israel peace treaty in 1979

few days after the outbreak of the war, I went into a neighborhood hardware store where two old timers were muttering that things would be different today if only Begin were still prime minister. My goal is not to disparage Netanyahu or any of Israel’s politicians. Rather, I would like to examine the life of Menachem Begin in order to understand why so many Israelis admired, revered and trusted him – and why numerous schools, government buildings, parks and roads were named after him. Born in 1913 in Brest-Litovsk, Poland, Menachem Begin was an early devotee of Ze’ev Jabotinsky, who instilled in Begin powerful life lessons of Jewish pride, selflessness and courage. Begin became a leader of Betar, the youth movement of Jabotinsky’s Revisionist Zionism. He later led the pre-state Irgun military organization. Upon the establishment of the State of Israel, Begin founded Herut, the forerunner to the Likud party, and in 1977, he became the sixth Prime Minister of Israel. As a result of the peace treaty that he signed with Egyptian president Anwar Sadat, Begin was the first Israeli to win the Nobel Peace Prize. Begin is also famous for bombing the Osirak nuclear reactor in Iraq. Lest one think that this preventive attack was a one-time operation, Begin stated, “On no account shall we permit an enemy

to develop weapons of mass destruction against the people of Israel. We shall defend the citizens of Israel in good time and with all the means at our disposal.” This commitment to self-defense strikes became known as the Begin Doctrine, which remains an important component of Israel’s security planning.

Furthermore, Begin understood that being Jewish meant sometimes being isolated, and he often quoted biblical passages alluding to the separateness of the Jewish nation. Begin appreciated that this separation affords us the opportunity to act upon our Jewish values. One of these treasured values is standing up for

Some may have disagreed with his policies but, because everyone knew and respected Begin’s belief system, no one ever questioned his priorities and commitments.

These seemingly contradictory activities of peacemaking and war provocation were two important components of Menachem Begin’s unified world view. Begin was a proud and learned Jew who was guided by Jewish values, and viewed the world from a biblical perspective. He cherished the majesty of Jewish history and felt privileged to help restore the Jewish people to their God-given ancestral homeland, where they can provide refuge to their brethren and control their own destiny.

the oppressed – and if Jewish lives are being threatened, Begin believed we must intervene. This insight helps explain Begin’s activities in the pre-state underground. When Jews were prohibited from entering British Mandate Palestine after the Holocaust, Begin’s Irgun organization bombed the King David Hotel and took other tough stances to fight the British blockade. Simply put, our people needed to return home and therefore Begin felt obligated to defeat the British forces, de-

spite international backlash. Fast forward to 1981, when Begin ordered Israel’s Air Force to destroy Iraq’s Osirak nuclear reactor. This preventive strike was initially met with almost universal condemnation, and only years later was acknowledged for having stopped Iraq’s dictator Saddam Hussein from achieving nuclear capability. Menachem Begin was Israel’s first prime minister who had strong Jewish values, which guided his life and all of his crucial decisions. He was humble, honorable, and generous; in a word, he was a mensch. Some may have disagreed with his policies but, because everyone knew and respected Begin’s belief system, no one ever questioned his priorities and commitments. Now we understand why, whenever Israel faces challenges, odds are that your Israeli taxi driver might say: “You know what we really need now? We need Begin.” (The primary source for this article was Daniel Gordis’ outstanding biography “Menachem Begin: The Battle for Israel’s Soul.”)

Gedaliah Borvick is the founder of My Israel Home (www.myisraelhome.com), a real estate agency focused on helping people from abroad buy and sell homes in Israel. To sign up for his monthly market updates, contact him at gborvick@gmail.com.

OCTOBER 26, 2023 | The Jewish Home

My Israel Home

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The Jewish Home | OCTOBER 26, 2023

Headlines

Halacha

Bombing a Building With Hostages and War Halachos By Rabbi Yair Hoffman

he “October 7 th Depravity” has, of course, revealed the national glue that binds all of Klal Yisroel together. There is an unprecedented unity among us that has brought people to come closer to Hashem and other Jews. The newly revealed national glue has caused many people to rethink long-held positions. There is, however, debate about a rather tragic question that Jewish military leaders are now facing. There are probably some 222 hostages held in Gaza now. May a building with known terrorists inside be bombed if there is a probability that our citizens might be in there as well? There are certain givens here. The Hamas playbook is to hide behind women and children and other innocents. And so, there is a strong probability that they are using the innocent hostages to save their own necks. But what is the halacha here, in terms of what Jewish armed forces can and cannot do? The question is emotionally rattling because we are crying and davening for the safety of the hostages, and yet at the same time, it is very clear to us that we have a den of vipers in Eretz Yisroel’s backyard. It is a question that no one would ever wish to actually have, and we daven fervently that the hostages should be returned safely. What follows is a brief overview of the relevant sources and related matters. At first glance, it may appear that some of the sources brought here appear to be irrelevant. We will see, however, that the later authorities cite these sources for our discussion here.

The Obligation To Save We know that halacha mandates that we try to save the lives of our fellow citizens. The Shulchan Aruch (CM 426:1) states that one who sees his fellow drowning or thieves that have pounced upon him and he can save his fellow, if he

yourself” as a directive to save our peers from dangers as well.

What If It’s Dangerous?

did not do so he is in violation of “Do not stand idly by your brother’s blood” (Vayikra 19:16). The Rambam adds a caveat that the obligation is only when one has the capability of saving him (Sefer HaMitzvos Lo Saaseh #297). The Issue V’Heter (59:38) writes that whooever could have saved but did not, it is considered as if he himself had killed him personally. There are a number of other mitzvos that one fulfills as well. · Hashavas Aveidah. The mitzvah is not just for lost items. The verse in Parashas Ki Seitzei (Devarim 22:2) discusses the mitzvah of hashavas aveidah, returning a lost object, with the words, “V’hasheivoso lo,” “and you shall return it to him.” The Gemara in Sanhedrin (73a), however, includes within its understanding of these words the obligation of returning “his own life to him as well.” For example, if thieves are threatening to pounce upon him, there is an obligation of “V’hasheivoso lo.” This verse is the source for the mitzvah of saving someone’s life. It is highly probable that it is to this general mitzvah that

the Shulchan Aruch refers in Shulchan Aruch Orach Chaim 325. · Lo Suchal L’hisalem. There is yet another negative commandment associated with the positive commandment of hashavas aveidah, and that is the verse in Devarim (22:3), “You cannot shut your eyes to it.” This verse comes directly after the mitzvah of hashavas aveidah. The Netziv, Rabbi Naftali Tzvi Yehudah Berlin, in his HeEmek She’eilah, refers to this mitzvah as well in saving life. · V’chai Achicha Imach. Rav Achai Gaon in his She’iltos (She’ilta #37), based upon the Gemara in Bava Metzia 62a, understands the words in Vayikra (25:36), “v’chai achicha imach,” “and your brother shall live with you,” to indicate an obligation to save others with you. The Netziv in his HeEmek She’eilah understands it as a full-fledged obligation according to all opinions. · V’ahavta L’rei’acha Kamocha. The Ramban, in Toras HaAdam Sha’ar HaSakanah (pp. 42–43), understands the verse of “And love thy neighbor as

If the “saving” is dangerous to the rescuer and involves risk, then there is a debate between the Talmud Yerushalmi and the Talmud Bavli as to whether one is obligated in saving or whether there is no obligation. The Smah rules like the Bavli (CM 426:2) and so does the Mishna Brurah (OC 329:19). The Mishna Brurah, however, adds that if it is dangerous to the rescuer, he is not obligated because his own life precedes the life of another person. Even if it is possibly dangerous to him, that pushes off the obligation – even if the other will definitely not be saved. It is unclear, however, as to whether the Talmud Bavli merely rules that there is no obligation or that there is a prohibition in doing it.

During Wartime All this, however, is during peacetime. During wartime, the Rambam writes (Hilchos Shabbos 2:23) that when there is an enemy that attacks a Jewish city, it is a mitzvah incumbent upon everyone that can to come and assist their brethren and save them [even] on Shabbos, and it is forbidden to wait until Motzei Shabbos. How does this work when there is no obligation to endanger oneself? The answer is that wartime is inherently different. See Rav Chaim Soloveitchik on Parshas Shlach citing the pasuk in Shoftim 5:18, “Zevulun Am chairaif nafsho.” Rav Elchonon Wasserman, zt”l, comes to this conclusion in his Kovaitz Shiurim (Kesuvos Vol. I Siman 9). He derives this from Esther having risked her life when she stood before Achashveirosh. This is the view of the Minchas Chinuch (Mitzvah #425) and the Netziv (Meromei haSadeh, Eiruvin 45a.) There is a question as to whether it is only a Milchemes Mitzvah or any type of war – especially

The Source in Tanach For background as to the underlying halachic issue, let’s see a brief overview of some of Shmuel Bais (19: 41-44; 20:1-15): After the rebellion of Avshalom, we learn of Sheva Ben Bichri from Shevet Binyomin who had blown a shofar and publicly stated, “We have no share in David, nor have we any portion in the son of Yishai - every man to his tents, O Israel” (19:41–44; 20:1). Some in Klal Yisroel followed Sheva instead of escorting Dovid HaMelech to Yerushalayim. Dovid HaMelech then took steps to assert his authority. Yoav and Avishai were a second force that Dovid sent, and he marched up north to Evail of Bais Maacah, where Sheva was holding out. When Yoav attacked Evail of Bais Maacah, a “wise woman” of the town stepped onto the wall and asked for a meeting with Yoav. When promised that he would not hurt the town or any of its inhabitants provided they surrendered Sheva, she got the people of the town to toss Sheva’s head over the wall to the besiegers. Presumably, the rationale of the townspeople not to hand him over was the prohibition of causing the death of fellow citizen (through a grama – an indirect action) and/or directly killing a fellow Jew.

The Tosefta in Trumos 7:23 The issue is elaborated upon in a Tosefta in Trumos 7:23: A group of [Jews] to whom gentiles say, “Give us one of you to be killed. If not, we will kill all of you,” they should let themselves be killed and not deliver them one soul from Israel. But if they specifically mentioned the name of that person to them – for example, Sheva ben Bichri – they should give him up and not let themselves be killed. Rabbi Yehuda said, “When do these words apply? In a case when he, the designated one, is on the inside and they are on the outside [of the fortified city]; but in a case when he is inside and they are inside, since he will be killed and they too will be killed, they should give him up and not let themselves all be killed. And so does it state in Shmuel Beis 20:22, “And the woman came to all of the people in her wisdom… She said to them, ‘Since he will be killed and you will be killed, give him to them and do

not kill all of you.’” Rabbi Shimon says, “This is what she said to them, ‘Anyone who rebels against the monarchy [of the House of David] is liable to [receive] the death penalty.’”

How to Understand the Two Views There is a debate as to how to understand the two views enumerated in the

The Doubt As to Whether They are There There is another factor and that it is it may not be clearly known that the hostage or hostages are, in fact, there with the terrorists. Intelligence is often faulty, and we cannot take the word of the terrorists without proof. There is also the possibility that the terrorists have already escaped from that

The Chazon Ish is not conclusive but perhaps it may be used as a contributing factor to allow for the destruction of the building where terrorists are found.

Tosefta. The simple reading is Rabbi Yehudah’s view, that since they will all be killed anyway, then they should comply with the request. In the simple understanding of Rabbi Yehudah’s view, they would only have been permitted to hand him over but not kill him. Rav Shimon’s view is that he had to have been guilty. The operative principle of Rabbi Shimon is that it is only because he was guilty was why they could have either killed him or handed him over. Rabbi Dovid Pardo (1718-1790), in his Chasdei Dovid, writes that they both agree with each other. This may also be the view of the Meiri cited in Sheyarei Knesses HaGedolah (YD 197, HaGaos Beis Yoseph #38).

The Implication of the Tosefta If the view of Rabbi Yehudah in the simple reading is the authoritative view, then one might be able to make the argument that since the Hamas terrorists are avowed murderers in a war and the individual or the hostages will be killed by them anyway, then more lives would be saved in bombing the building than not bombing it. According to the Chasdei Dovid, it would be more problematic.

The Chazon Ish There is a Chazon Ish (Sanhedrin Siman 25) that writes that causing an arrow to be redirected to a place where less people will be killed is an act of salvation and may perhaps be permitted. The Chazon Ish is not conclusive but perhaps it may be used as a contributing factor to allow for the destruction of the building where terrorists are found.

particular place after the intel had been received that they were there. There seems to be three tunnel systems in Gaza. In the northeast, there are tunnels that Hamas has built to sneak into Israel. There is a second underground network in Gaza city that the IDF and Shin Bet refer to as the “Gaza Metro.” It is a vast labyrinth of

tunnels that are several kilometers underground, used to keep rockets, fuel and ammunition caches. It is used to transport people and goods and to house Hamas command and control centers. In 2021, Hamas claimed to have 311 miles of tunnels underneath Gaza. The fact is that the terrorists are so hate-filled that they may have already killed the hostages when they saw that their destruction may be imminent. This, in fact, happened with Hamas regarding the three boys that were kidnapped in June of 2014 from Alon Shvut. These are the factors and sources and/ or their combination that Poskim would take into account as to the permissibility of bombing buildings or tunnels where there may be an indication that hostages are being held. Many Poskim have also ruled that during wartime, the parameters are different, and one should do whatever one can to maximize the safety of the most people. May Hashem guard all of Klal Yisroel and bring all of the hostages home safely. May Hashem further guard all of Klal Yisroel and those rescuing Klal Yisroel.

The author can be reached at yairhoffman2@ gmail.com.

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in modern times – but there is no question that when Jews have been actually attacked, even in modern times, that it is a Milchemes Mitzvah.

nspiration Nation

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Rabbi Benjamin Blech: Adventures in the Vatican By Eliyahu RosEnBERg

veryone wants a life filled with adventure, but few are able to muster up the courage necessary to overcome the obstacles that lay in one’s path. Instead, many have adopted self-limiting beliefs. “I’m too old.” “I’m not smart enough.” “I don’t have enough money.” And the list goes on and on… But has it ever occurred to you that these may just be excuses rather than reasons for why we opt out of opportunities, for why

we set the bar lower than it has to be? Take a look at Rabbi Benjamin Blech, who, by most standards, is a super success. He’s a college professor at YU and an author of twenty-three books, including a New York Times Best Seller. But most of all, he’s an adventurer. As you will soon discover, he has experienced incredible opportunities, from his meeting with the Lubavitcher Rebbe to his mission of uncovering hidden Jewish treasures in the Vatican. And surprisingly, at ninety years old, he hasn’t slowed down one bit.

In His Words… i can’t just do nothing or be nothing; i need to leave a legacy. i need the world to be a little bit different because i almost didn’t make it because g-d said miraculously, ‘i need you here.‘

”

g-d is concerned with how you act with g-d’s children.

” ”

if you really believe in a g-d Who is the Creator, then you will live it in such a way that to your neighbor you express divinity… and you will live in a manner that never mistreats g-d’s children. live your life with meaning. if you are here, you are here for a reason.

”

“I was born in Switzerland, and in 1941, my parents were wise enough to recognize that we had to get out of there,” Rabbi Blech says. “I was a little boy, eight years old, and I left with my parents and my family on the last boat out of Europe.” While the trip was supposed to be about two weeks long, it ended up taking almost four months, as the captain had to steer the ship off course so as to avoid the Germans. The boat, the Navemar, was built to hold fourteen people but instead held hundreds, and over the course of the voyage, many died due to poor conditions. While Rabbi Blech didn’t experience the Holocaust firsthand, his traumatic escape from Europe left a deep mark on him, which later influenced him to live the best life he possibly could. “It’s an interesting thing that when people talk about survivors, they usually mean those who were in concentration camps,” he explained. “I really believe that every Jew who lived through the Holocaust and with whatever level of difficulty is a survivor, because Hitler, ym”sh, had a plan to eliminate every single Jew on Earth, and if we persevered and if we survived, then we are survivors.” Not only that, but to be alive after such a horrific calamity means that we all must have a tremendous mission in

life in order to warrant our existence, Rabbi Blech adds. And that idea motivated Rabbi Blech to accomplish incredible things. After Rabbi Benjamin Blech earned his semicha, he became the rabbi of Young Israel of Oceanside. Simultaneously, he became a Rosh Yeshiva at YU. At that point, Rabbi Blech had taught hundreds of talmidim, yet his wife encouraged him to accomplish even more. “My wife said, ‘You know this is all well and good, but you’re only influencing the people that you come in contact with. You need to write books because through books you can reach out to tens of thousands,’” Rabbi Blech recalls. As it turned out, through his books, Rabbi Blech was able to influence more than half a million people. Thirty years into his career as a pulpit rabbi, he suddenly received a phone call from Chabad Lubavitch, and to his shock, he was told that the Rebbe wanted to meet with him. Mind you, up until this point, Rabbi Blech had no connection to Chabad. Nonetheless, he went to speak with the Rebbe. Upon meeting him, the Lubavitcher Rebbe explained that he was aware of Rabbi Blech’s great accomplishments as an author and educator. The Rebbe then made a surprising request. “I want you to go with your wife to the Far East, and I want you to spread

107 Rabbi Blech, explaining that he could arrange for Rabbi Blech to meet with the Pope, John Paul II, who, according to Rabbi Blech, was a great lover of the Jewish people. Pope John Paul II had just fallen ill, and he wanted a group of rabbis to come to Rome so that they could give him a blessing. And so, Rabbi Blech gathered together a group of 175 rabbis and they all went to the Vatican. “In the Talmud, it says that when we meet a king or a chief representative of even another religion, we make a blessing,” Rabbi Blech explains. “We made a blessing on seeing him, and we made a blessing for him.” During the meeting, the Pope’s righthand man privately asked Rabbi Blech if there was any favor he wanted from the Church. Now, before this incident, Rabbi Blech had asked several gedolim what he should ask for in such a situation. The rabbanim told him that it would be incredible if he could ask to see some of the original works of the Rambam, which the Church had seized long ago. For many years, Jewish scholars have been perplexed over one of the Rambam’s rulings, and some have theorized that the version of the text that we have today was misprinted. As such, a look at the original version might shed light on the truth. “It has to do with how marriage is performed,” Rabbi Blech explains. “There are three ways in which to make a marriage legal, and in the version that we have, it says that one of them is biblical and the other two are rabbinic. “He says that transfer of an object or money is merely rabbinic,” he continues. “Now we don’t do it with money, but with a ring, BUT that’s actually biblical.” The Rambam’s ruling, as such, doesn’t make sense.

This article is based on a podcast, “Inspiration For the Nation,” hosted by Yaakov Langer. To catch more of this conversation, you can watch it on LivingLchaim.com or YouTube.com/LivingLchaim or listen wherever you listen to podcasts (just search for “Inspiration For The Nation”) or call our free hotline: 605-477-2100.

Thus, Rabbi Blech asked the Church’s representative if they had any pages written by Maimonides, although he couldn’t ask for a specific one. And so, they brought him five random folio pages, which came out of a collection of tens of thousands. When Rabbi Blech looked at the pages they gave him, he was in utter shock. One of the pages was the exact page that contained the ruling in question, and lo and behold, Rabbi Blech saw that the original version of the Rambam’s text was different than the version we have today. In fact, the ruling of the Rambam we have today seems to have been a scribal error. “A few years later, it [this page] went on tour, and it was at the Israel Museum,” Rabbi Blech notes. Since then, historically accurate versions of the text have been reprinted. “This was G-d’s reward to me for my

work – for the things I’d accomplished, including at Chabad and including teaching so many thousands of students at Yeshiva University,” Rabbi Blech asserts. Although he has every excuse to relax and slow down, Rabbi Benjamin Blech is actively involved in negotiations with the Church, regarding stolen treasures that belong to the Jews. Instead of allowing his traumatic childhood to damage him, he used it to motivate him to achieve greatness. And while he could easily surrender to his advanced age, he instead insists on feeling young and capable. Alas, no matter how much he has accomplished, he still wants to do more. Of course, as messengers of Hashem, we, too, have the responsibility to fulfill our potential and to live a life full of meaning. We may experience challenges, but we must realize that each day is a gift from G-d and proof that there is still much more to be done.

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Judaism to people there who have not had the opportunity to learn sufficiently,” the Rebbe told him. Rabbi Blech initially thought that the Rebbe was asking him to raise money for Lubavitch, a mission he wasn’t really interested in. “Chas v’shalom! G-d forbid,” the Rebbe clarified. “I didn’t ask you to fundraise. We are going to pay for everything on your trip. The only thing we ask is that you increase the knowledge of Judaism and the attachment of people that didn’t have the good fortune to learn in yeshiva.” Rabbi Blech was dumbfounded. Here was the Lubavitcher Rebbe, who out of thousands of followers, chose a non-chassid for such an important mission. Rabbi Blech quickly agreed and began traveling to Australia, New Zealand, Singapore, Bangkok, Tokyo, and other countries, giving speeches about Judaism to audiences of anywhere from 20 to 20,000 people. The Lubavitcher Rebbe was very happy with Rabbi Blech’s success. A few decades later, Rabbi Blech was invited to speak at a post-9/11 conference, in which the main topic of discussion was spiritual healing, and more specifically, Maimonides, who was not only an incredible Jewish scholar, but was also one of the most talented physicians of his time. After Rabbi Blech finished speaking, a man came up to him and introduced himself as one of the only Jews in the world given a title of honor by the Vatican. “I just want you to know that I have connections with the Vatican and if there’s anything that you need from the Church, just give me a call,” the man, who identified himself as Gary Krupp, said. Two weeks later, the man called

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Israel Today

Kiryat Gat Comes Together to Support the IDF and Local Families By Ilan Katz

Eli English of Woodmere, NY, working to get pallets of equipment to Carmei Gat

n Simchat Torah morning, many Israeli citizens were woken up by warning sirens. Without knowing what was happening, we all ran to our safe rooms and waited anxiously, completely unaware of the horrors that were taking place to our brothers and sisters nearby. Since then, for the last couple of weeks, Israel has been at war with Hamas. It’s a horrific battle, the scale of which has not been seen for many years. Almost every Jew across the world knows of someone who has been drafted into the Israeli army and is serving on the front lines protecting Israel’s citizens. Those of us remaining in our communities have only one thought: how can we help? It’s been truly inspiring to see the efforts being made across Israel to ensure that soldiers have the equipment and supplies necessary to do their jobs. My own community, a suburb of Kiryat Gat called Carmei Gat, in southern Israel, has been no exception. Our fantastic volunteers have been working around the clock to support those keeping us safe. To date, we have sourced, fundraised for and distributed 900 sandwiches, 24 bags of

food and snacks, 200 challot and bottles of grape juice as well as 90 Shabbat meals and more than 50 meals to the elderly and Kiryat Gat-based families of those serving in miluim. We have also provided 20 boxes of protective equipment, 5,000 NIS worth

The front lawn of the home of Moshe English of Inwood, NY, working with Eli to get pallets to bases all over Israel

looking after their children alone. With schools and most open public spaces like parks closed until further notice, these women have had to run their households, hold down jobs and look after their kids with little to no respite. Our community, in this instance led by our rebbetzin and

Messages of support from them and our friends have been welcome and help to summon the courage and strength to continue doing what is needed in order to keep Israel going.

of tents, 10 boxes of hi-tech equipment to bases on the Lebanon border, 400 pizzas, a barbeque for an entire base, and sent 60 boxes of protein bars to the Hermon. In addition, we have over 55 (and counting) women whose husbands have been drafted into the army and are

communal members, set up a network to support these women and provide babysitters or meals to lighten their loads. In the last few days, we have also been made aware that residents of Sderot, which has been under constant bombardment from Hamas and Islamist terrorists,

have fled with only a moment’s notice to move to our city. They are arriving with only garbage bags of their clothes and do not have people they can turn to for help. We have therefore stepped in here and are providing them with mattresses, bed-bases, bedding and more until either their own belongings are brought or until they can go and buy what they need. For our part, it is difficult to be away from close family members at this difficult and stressful time, but messages of support from them and our friends have been welcome and help to summon the courage and strength to continue doing what is needed in order to keep Israel going. To date, we have raised over $35,000 and are also fortunate to have a brilliant Instagram influencer whose followers have been supporting our efforts, and a family member of the founders of Kii NYC, which has also been donating to our causes. We will forever be grateful to these generous people who have supported us so far and for their extremely quick response, including from members of the wonderful New York and New Jersey communities.

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But we are acutely aware that this is only the second week of a war that could last for at least another few weeks. To keep going at this rate, we will need tens of thousands of dollars. If you are reading this and wondering, “What can I do?” we are holding several initiatives of which you are able and welcome to be a part. First, soldiers on the front lines need to keep up their morale, especially when there is much anti-Israel rhetoric online. Along with care packages and equip-

ment, they are extremely appreciative of receiving notes wishing them well. In an ideal world, the IDF would provide everything that soldiers need but this war was unexpected and on a larger scale than we have seen in recent memory, and they simply do not have the resources to do so. This is why we and other communities are stepped in to pick up the slack and send supplies to army bases. Lastly, families who have left their homes need basic items such as clothing and bedding. Secondhand items do the

job but seeing as these are often in bad condition and these families are in need of a pick-me-up, we are trying to provide brand new items. If you would like to take part in any of these projects, you can share messages and donate at https://causematch.com/ israel-at-war/friendsofcarmeigat Thank you for your support and generosity – it means the world to us. I have never seen the Jewish people come together like they have in the last couple of weeks, putting aside differences to make

sure we defeat our common enemy. We look forward to sharing simchas together in the near future. Photos by Shimon Mayerfeld and Binny Lewis

Ilan Katz grew up in North Woodmere and attended HAFTR and Rambam Mesivta. After graduating from Yeshiva University, Ilan joined the rest of his family in Israel by making Aliyah. He currently lives with his wife and daughter in the wonderful community of Carmei Gat.

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MK Yitzchak Pindrus on

What’s Happening on the Ground in Israel BY YossIE FRIEdMan

The following is an excerpt from the Eretz Hakodesh podcast with Yossie Friedman and Member of the Knesset Rav

Yitzchak Pindrus on the current situation in Israel. Yossie: We’re more than a week into the conflict here in Eretz Israel. Can you take me back to when you first heard about this, how you came to understand the gravity of this whole situation?

MK Pindrus: Like most people in Yerushalayim, I woke up to the sirens on Shabbos morning, wondering what it was about. I didn’t think there was anything going on. But then there was another siren, and I figured out that something had happened. I live in the Old City. When I went down to the Kosel, I heard rumors, which, halevai, those rumors would be true. By Motzei Shabbos, we understood that the tragedy was so much bigger. And we’re learning every day how it’s a bigger tragedy. Walking out of shul on Simchas Torah, one of the rabbanim walked over to me and told me, “I feel like this is like the Yom Kippur War. This is how it looked like in Yom Kippur War.” At that point, I was trying to figure out what he was saying, “A war where, with what? Did Israel attack Iran or something? What’s going on over here?” But, slowly by slowly, I started to hear, like everybody else around the world, how big the tragedy is and what big challenges we have.

As a government official, when was the first time there was a government meeting about this to understand how Israel was going to respond and what this meant for the safety and security of Eretz Israel?

First of all, we don’t sit in government offices. The first time the Knesset got together officially was last week [on Thursday, October 12 -Ed.], to make the new national government. But by Sunday morning already, the day after the attack, a group of Knesset members – right now, it’s about 107 out of 120 members of Knesset – created a group to help. On a regular day, the government is the one that supplies the needs of the people, and the Knesset is supposed to look after it or make laws. But we figured out that there’s a lot of lack in services and a lot of problems, and we decided to act. Eretz Yisrael is not the same Eretz Yisrael that it was before Simchas Torah.

“Israel never went through what Israel

take care of and find DNAs of the people at that time – it was 45 people. But you’re talking about over 1,300 people, rachmana l’tzlan. And that’s not even talking about the tragedy of what happened. Just having to identify these people with DNA or dental records, we haven’t even done for many of them. Remember, there are more than 200 hostages. There are tens of thousands of people that have been displaced from their homes in the north and in the south. The government decides at a certain stage that people should move. In the south, they’re saying those that within seven kilometers from the border. But if someone lives 7.2 kilometers away, in Ashkelon, he’s frightened. Should he leave his home? And what if there’s no bomb shelter? In the north, you’re talking about two kilometers. But again, if a person lives 2.2 or 2.5 or 3 kilometers away and he’s hearing these bombs going off around him, he’s going to leave, too. You’re talking about hundreds of thousands of people that are not at their homes now. They’re displaced. They’re all around. There’s no school system. Businesses are closed. You’re talking about a country in a chaos.

is going through now.” And so we got together from the opposition, the coalition, all parties, and we opened two headquarters, one in Ramat Gan and one in the Knesset. We’re working together, each person doing their part. It’s chaos. If someone will tell you everything is OK, it’s not OK. It’s chaos – of every issue you can think of and every area you could think about. But we’re working together to help. From what I remember, Eretz Yisrael has never went through something like this. Never. There’s nothing that you can compare it to. Not even the Yom Kippur War or the Six Day War. Israel never went through what Israel is going through now. And that brings up a lot of issues that, of course, the government wasn’t prepared. Organizations weren’t prepared. Just for an example, the biggest tragedy that we remember is 45 people killed in Meiron. That means that even to

You mentioned that the Knesset went from being a legislative body to an askanus body, trying to figure out the needs and services of the people out there, and that you joined together with chaverei Knesset across the spectrum. What has that been like in terms of this opportunity that sort of sprang onto you?

Rav Lau always says, “We know how to die together. We don’t know how to live together, unfortunately.” Rachmana l’tzlan. And it happens to face us and smash it in our face one time and another time. Yes, you see the achdus of Klal Israel at this time. No one is dealing with issues of politics and things that were addressed before the attack. Everyone feels that this is an eis tzarah l’Yaakov – frei, frum, leftists, rightists, from all sides.

The coming together, on some levels, has been an opportunity. Some people said to me, “It must be so hard to live in Israel these days with everything going on.”

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You try to explain that, although there’s difficulties, it’s also a unique time to live in Eretz Israel.

When you see tens of thousands of frum, charedi people driving down to the north, to the south, to the most dangerous places, just to bring lunch to a soldier or to bring toothpaste to a soldier…. I don’t have any friend of mine that I know or any person that I know that doesn’t get up in the morning and say, “What could I do today to help the matzav?” People are in difficult situations. Like I said, people have children at home. The school system isn’t working. But still, people are getting up and going out there and helping. I get phone calls from people around the world asking how they can help. I get them from people in France, in England, friends from the United States. Everywhere in the world, people call me up and say, “What could I do? What could I do better? How could I help?” Eretz Yisrael went through a year of a big split over here, a very big split, not only politically. There were demonstrations, anything against Yiddishkeit. It’s not the time to get into it. But now, yes, you see everybody is working together. I’m sitting together in the same room with Simcha Rothman and Shelly Tal Meron and Michal Shir – all parties. We’ve been in the same room, working together, from Sunday morning until now. Most of them were there on Shabbos as well – I took a little break on Shabbos, even though I wasn’t sure it was right to do so. But it’s about pikuach nefesh and helping people.

There’s been so much support from people and from organizations – Eretz Hakodesh, Yad Eliezer. How does the government view this type of support and coming together from around the world?

I’m not running a government office and I’m in the Knesset, so I have a different perspective. But I could tell you that Israel never took 360,000 soldiers out to milium in 24 hours. Some of the soldiers came a little bit later because they had to come from abroad. But 360,000 soldiers are out. In the north and in the south, there are guys on milium that are sitting there and getting organized to go into Lebanon or to Gaza. To organize the milium takes time. You have to supply things. You have to open up the storehouses, and you have to be organized. And the first thing that Israel has to do is to see what they need to do with the tanks and what they need to do with their planes before they figure out what they need to do with the bulletproof vest of a certain soldier over there. There are needs. At the same time, there are hundreds of thousands of people who were moved out of their homes. At the same time, you have more than 200 hostages. At the same time, you have levayas. You have shivas. You have people that were killed – a number that you can’t imagine – more than 1,300 people in one day. And again, with some of those people who were killed, you don’t know where they are, what condition they’re in. So you could say everything’s okay, but it’s not. Even a government that would function the well in good circumstances would be having a hard time with this situation. Israel is very good with bureaucracy on normal days. But it’s not a normal day. Again, 360,000 people are out there on milium. They have wives. They

have children. They have jobs. You’re talking about people that are removed from their houses, north and south, people in bomb shelters with shooting. 1,300 people were killed. The government is busy making decisions about going out to war – how to go, what to do. Is Iran going to get involved? Is Hezbollah going to get involved? So if you would take maybe one of these challenges and complain to the government and tell them, “Listen, you were supposed to function,” I’m not sure it would work then, but that we’ll leave aside for after the war. But each one of them is a major challenge. And we’re dealing with this all at once.

You’re saying that all the efforts that are being done around the world, where requests are coming in for different equipment, these are all legitimate requests to the extent that soldiers need these basic needs. There are many people who may be saying to themselves, “The Israeli army can’t provide--” you fill in the blank. And the answer is that, even under normal circumstances, they might be able to. But because of the challenges that you’re describing, the international community’s help is really making a big difference on the battlefield. It’s not only the four challenges. Think about it. An army that never took 360,000 soldiers in one day – they

“But really, we have gornisht. We have nothing. We only have Hashem.”

drafted them without bases. The bases are the regular soldiers. These guys are in parking lots and gas stations waiting for an order to go in. They don’t know when they’re going to go in. I don’t know when they’re going in. And I’m promising you that Netanyahu also doesn’t know when they’re going in. No one knows right now. How do you organize this? There was no warning. And think about that number – 360,000 people. To organize something on this level for so many people… So for anyone who says, “I want to bring right now down to the south or to the north something for a soldier that he doesn’t have,” he’s making a difference. To say why the army can’t do it? Because those are the issues.

The united Klal Yisroel and the whole world is working together, helping, pushing, and helping. It could be that you may buy the wrong thing to send to the soldiers. Maybe they didn’t need that flashlight. But that’s okay. People call me, “Are you sure that that’s the main thing that’s missing?” I tell them, “Listen, if you call me in a half hour, maybe I’ll find out that there’s something else they need. And maybe someone else brought it already. But right now, that’s what they need.” We’re trying to figure out what exactly is needed and where it should go. That’s what we’re doing in the Knesset. Which organization could be used for this? Which organization could be used for that? You’re talking about hospitals that have to be prepared. You’re talking about medical centers that have to be prepared. You’re talking about almost anything you could think about.

What is the feedback that you’ve gotten or seen on the field with the soldiers when they see such an outpouring of donations? They feel we’re with them. We’re not against them. There was a group of chareidi guys in a parking lot by a gathering area and they were making a barbecue for the soldiers. And I heard one the soldiers say, “I didn’t know these chareidim are human beings.” Another one said, “I used to hate them. Now I like them.” It’s a kiddush Hashem. Someone called me and told me a story about a person who is very against smoking. He told the guy, “Even though I’m against smoking, I’m giving you $10,000 to go buy cigarettes for the soldiers.” And when the charedi guy brings the cigarettes to the soldiers, it’s a big feeling of achdus. The morale of the soldiers and of Israelis to wipe out

In many circumstances, bochurim, charedim in Eretz Yisroel, we know deep down that learning and davening is what we can do. This time, it feels that that feeling is more real than ever.

this terrorist organization is way, way, way high. There’s no doubt about it. You could hear it from Lapid, and you could hear it from Lieberman, of course, but you could hear it from everyone. People feel that Klal Yisroel has their back and is supporting them.

In the yeshiva world, there’s a sense that it’s an eis tzaara l’Yaakov and there is a direct correlation between making a kiddush Hashem and going back to learning and doing our part in the yeshivas. Has that affected the other side, which may not have seen this as part of this fight for Eretz Israel?

The feeling I believe that came out that for every Torah Jew on Simchas Torah and Motzei Simchas Torah was “Sheker ha’sus l’teshua, u’brov cheilo lo yimaleit. Hinei ein Hashem el yirai’av, l’meyachalim l’chasdo” [Tehillim 33: 17-18]. Our hope is that everybody will understand it. But people are busy now going on with their lives. They’re struggling. They’re trying not to think too much. They’re busy now with surviving and getting through this time as easily as possible, and they’re doing the best thing they could do right now. But of course, we, for ourselves, sometimes, we may think, “Who’s going to help me? This guy from the Shabak, the Mossad, he’s going to help me.” And one morning you wake up and you say, “Sheker ha’sus l’teshua, u’brov cheilo lo yimaleit.” I can say that on a Eretz Hakodesh broadcast. But I can’t say it today on TV. People woke up on Motzei Shabbos, and that was their feeling. And really, normally, in a regular not-Torah mind, it doesn’t make sense. How could it be? We have a fence. We have soldiers. We have this. We have that. But

What you’re saying actually means more than what you’re saying, and I tell it to people. It means that we failed on our part. Because if it is our responsibility to learn and daven [to protect Eretz Yisroel], we failed on our part. We didn’t do it good enough. We’re supposed to do it better. Because if it’s your responsibility, you have to take responsibility and think what more you could do and what could you do better than you didn’t do before. It’s an acharyus to do even better.

“Israel is very good with bureaucracy on normal days. But it’s not a normal day.” Parents who have sons in yeshiva here or daughters in seminary here are nervous about the situation. We’d like to believe that, at this point, the situation in Yerushalayim and in the center of the country can go on as sort of normal. I’m sure you’ve been contacted by people from abroad about these situations. By and large, what is your message to them?

Two things. First of all, for those who live here in Eretz Israel, you know that Yerushalayim is not really under war. The center is not under war. If someone would ask me from the south, if they should stay in the south, I would tell him, “No, it’s not the right time to be there.” We need siyata d’shmaya, but in Yerushalayim, we feel safe. Of course, if you hear a siren, you need to go to a safe place. But I don’t think Yerushalayim is

going to become part of the fighting, but again, sheker ha’sus l’teshua. Secondly, gedolei Yisroel were asked. They all answered and said that nobody has to leave. Not only that, but I know a lot of people that came here for yom tov, and they’re not leaving. They canceled their tickets. They’re staying here.

Where do you see this situation going, both in terms of Israel as a people and militarily where this ends up?

I would divide it into two parts. There’s one part that is dealing with what’s going to be happening normally in the next month. Over the next month, Israel has no choice. If they were capable or not capable, if they want or if they don’t want, they have to go into Gaza and wipe out Hamas. I think everybody understands it. It’s very, very obvious and very clear. And I believe even more than that. If there’s going to be something in the north, Israel is going to have to react more than just touching a little bit in Lebanon. But we hope and we daven that it should go with the least tragedies, with the least people wounded, and it should go through as easy as possible. But it’s going to happen. I don’t see a scenario where it’s not going to happen and that Hamas is not going to be wiped out. The question is how tough it’s going to be, how difficult it’s going to be. In my feeling, and I speak to a lot of people that have even more experience than me, Israel’s going to be different after this war. It could be in two ways. Either the split that we had before is going to become bigger, or the split is going to be less. What was before Simchas Torah and after Simchas Torah is not going to be the same in Israel. Something’s going to change over here. I’m reminding you that the whole teshuvah movement in Israel started after the Yom Kippur War. Is that going to start now or not? It could be. But things are going to change – in the political world, in the international areas. In every spectrum we think, Israel is not going to be the same Israel that it was before.

What can we as a tzibbur do to help contribute to hopefully more unity after this is all over?

We need to show that we’re part of it. That we’re involved. What I’m doing there in the Knesset right now is not only askanus and helping people. I’m there to show that we’re involved. We’re there. We’re not only talking about it. We’re part of Israel. And we need a lot of siyata d’shmaya.

What is your message to those in the diaspora who have been volunteering and rising to the occasion at this time?

Keep on doing it because that’s our only future for Klal Yisroel. Keep on being involved. Keep on pushing. Keep on volunteering. Keep on donating. Show you that you’re part of Klal Yisroel. Unity will bring to kiruv l’vavos and to kiruv l’Avinu She’Beshamayim. When Klal Yisroel is united, they are strong. And when we’re strong, lo yitosh Hashem es Amo. You want to part of the Am, the nation. We want to be all together and not split apart. And that’s our success.

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really, we have gornisht. We have nothing. We only have Hashem. The roshei yeshiva told the bochurim to go back to learning during bein ha’zmanim because we have achrayus for Klal Yisroel. You can’t have bochurim running around when everybody’s in the army. Rav Shach, during the Yom Kippur War, told the bochurim not to walk in the streets on bein ha’zmanim when everyone was in the army. And yes, we need the zechusim. Rav Gershon used to say that tragedies happen when there’s bein ha’zmanim.

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SIgnS for SolIdarIty By rebecca Byrd

hile walking down Central Avenue on Shabbos afternoon, my heart was breaking. I noticed that all the storefronts bore a tragic poster, the word “Kidnapped” emblazoned in red. And beneath each headline was the heartbreak. Each page, a different one on each store window, showed a photo of a hostage being held by Hamas in Gaza, along with their name and age. “Doron Katz-Asher, 34 years old, along with her daughters,” read one sign. “Aviv Katz-Sher, 2 years old.” “Kfir Bibas, 9 months old baby.” “Chaim Peri, 79 years old.” “Emma and Yuli Cuno, 3-year-old Israeli babies.” “Diza Heiman, 84 years old.” “Please help bring them home alive” were the words on the bottom. These papers are tragic reminders of the horrors that at least 200 of our brothers and sisters are enduring at this moment under the sadistic gazes of Hamas terrorists. But who was the person behind placing these important placards, reminding us to keep our sisters and brothers in mind, even as we go shopping? On Sunday, I had the privilege of speaking with Guy Tsadik. “I’m an Israeli citizen and an American citizen,” Guy related. He has extended family living in Israel as well. Since hearing of the massacre on Shemini Atzeres, Guy had been struggling with how he could extend his support to the Holy Land. He had delivered sushi and pizza to the airport for soldiers heading back to the army. And he is involved with FIDF. But he wanted to do more.

Posters hung in Cyprus

A walk during his workday sparked an idea that he felt would bring unity and solidarity to the community. He had heard of flyers being printed and posted in other communities to help bring awareness to the tragedy. “This is a nonpartisan type of message in complete solidarity and unity and something that essentially gets rid of the left-leaning and right-leaning political positions,” Guy said. “Nobody can dispute that this happened.” He noted that there are factions trying to change the narrative or dispute the evidence. But Guy believes that

“It’s about solidarity. It’s about trying to show that this is a battle between good and evil.” showcasing the horrors and the tragedy is important to remind people of what really is happening. On that fateful walk last Thursday, Guy detoured to Print on Point to ask them if they could print the flyers. The documents had been created by Israeli street artists who were working to raise awareness of the hostages’ plights. In fact, these pages were emblazoned on t-shirts that the players of the Washington Wizards wore before a recent game. They were seen at a poignant scene of empty baby carriages in Trafalgar

Flyers at a tribute in Trafalgar Square in London

Square in London. They have been translated into dozens of languages, including Greek, Romanian, Finnish and Indonesian, and have been put up in numerous cities around the world. But until Guy printed out the flyers, the Five Towns had yet to join in the cause. That evening and the next day, Guy, his wife, Tami, and his nine-year-old stepson, Eitan, visited the stores on Central Avenue and asked the store owners if they would be willing to have the flyers placed in their windows. It took them hours to get to every store. In almost every case, the store owners were enthusiastic about joining in the cause. “It’s about awareness,” Guy maintained. “It’s about solidarity. It’s about trying to show that this is a battle between good and evil. This has nothing to do with left or right or people’s political opinions.” Aware that in some cities, anti-Israel activists had torn down some posters, Guy made sure to tape the flyers to the inside of the store windows, so as not to allow for desecration. The papers now adorn at least 100 stores in the area. Some other stores have reached out to Guy to ask him to put up flyers in their windows. As a whole, the community is enthused about supporting our brothers and sisters and standing in solidarity with those who have been captured. Since putting up the posters, people have reached out to Guy to applaud him for his efforts. “It’s an honor to know you,” one text message to him read. Another person wrote to him, “FYI, I had a very hard time walking down Central Avenue holding back tears. I think putting up the flyers of the hostages was so important. Thanks for doing that.”

A sign in a store window on Central Avenue

Guy, Tami, Eitan, and a store manager, while hanging up the posters in Cedarhurst

School of

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Never Forget By Barbara Deutsch

t’s been many years since I accompanied class and camp trips to Washington. This week, a busload of yeshiva kids from across Long Island and Queens accompanied Rabbi Shalom Axelrod and Rabbi Shai Schachter to Washington, D.C. 18,000 letters written by schoolchildren were packed into blue storage boxes and placed under the big coach bus. Each child hand-delivered a specially marked box to the White House. As an old-time social studies teacher, I would have been on that bus with the kids. In order to go, you had to have a valid passport; mine is waiting to be renewed in some government office. In order to make aliyah, you have to have one that has more than a year left on it. Mine didn’t. When I watched the kids board the bus in front of the Young Israel of Woodmere, I had major FOMO. There were very strict dress code guidelines required for the visit. I’m not sure who mandated them, but it was something like Shabbos clothes and real shoes, no sneakers. A cute snapshot that resonates with me is that of the mother waiting for a black shoe delivery for her child; last I saw her clutching two pairs of

black shiny shoes as she boarded the bus. So many images to process these last few weeks since the attack. I do what I can to stay away from the horrific images and the alarming descriptions. When I happen upon them because of the barrage of information, I recoil and my eyes swim in a sea of tears. How can you not? I was born in a Displaced Person’s Camp, DP Camp, in Germany. It was ironically called Lechtveld, World of Light; light it was not. We came to America when I was five months old, my mom, my dad and me. We were supposed to go to Israel, our metal suitcases had ISRAEL written in bold black letters on them. We got warning messages from my Grandmother and Aunts who had preceded us there to go to America; they were starving, and big rats were roaming the streets. So, off to America our little family went. Growing up, the shadow of their experience was never far from sight; everywhere my parents went they kept one eye in the back of their heads open. As their financial security improved, they settled into various Brooklyn ghettos, first in Williamsburg, then Crown Heights, fol-

lowed by Canarsie, and then into a luxury apartment in Lawrence. Until I was 25, I had never heard a grownup of their generation, a contemporary’s father or mother, speak without a heavy European accent. Every one of those families had that same deep chip on their shoulders. It’s making me uncomfortable to read that the current horrors are like the days of the Holocaust. Yes, not since the Holocaust did more Kiddoshim perish in one day. Yes, the acts of terror went beyond what anyone living in a civilized society can comprehend, but to even think for a moment that we will be the sitting ducks that we once were, ABSOLUTELY NOT! I want to be shocked that people actually believe that following the devastation of the Holocaust, Jews would be loved and respected. Do today’s Jews actually believe that the Holocaust was just a blip on the landscape of the humanity of civilized society? Not me! Not my family. What’s happening today on the college campuses has been there all along. Twenty-five years ago, when the Yeshivah of Flatbush was sending boatloads of kids to Ivy League Schools, the yeshiva based

its reputation for excellence on the fact that they were able to do so (plus actually teach kids the Hebrew language when everyone else struggled), the renowned educator and my friend and mentor, Rabbi David Eliach, principal of Flatbush, told me that he smells trouble in the future; that this policy has to be reconsidered. His son, Rabbi Yotav Eliach, a principal at Rambam, has written a brilliantly articulate and scathing letter, making the rounds on the internet, to NYU telling them that his school, Rambam, will no longer recommend students to NYU. We will not be silenced. I will not go back to my childhood filled with memories of fear. I will volunteer, write letters, give tzedakah, and push back if anyone dares to take away or hurt my home, my place, my people. Am Yisroel chai. Stay strong, stay united. Never forget.

Mrs. Barbara Deutsch is currently the associate principal at HANC 609 and a longtime reflective educator, parent, grandparent, and new great-grandparent. Even after all these years, she still loves what she does and looks forward to working with kids every single day.

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Dating Dialogue

What Would You Do If… Moderated by Jennifer Mann, LCSW of The Navidaters

Dear Navidaters,

I’ve been dating a girl for two months, and things have been going generally well. Over yom tov, I spent some time in her hometown and had meals at her house with her and her extended family. At a certain point, she asked if I could go to her room to get something she needed. When I say

I was shocked to walk into what I saw in her room is an understatement. Her room was an absolute wreck, clothes strewn about, shoes all over the floor, dresser drawers all open and clothes hanging out. Needless to say, that for a clean freak like me, this was a shock. I’ve been seeing her differently ever since. The excitement I had while dating her has waned tremendously. It could be we’re just not for each other, but I wanted to bring this question to the panel. Is it even worth it, bringing this up with her? Or is it just a matter of, she is who she is, and I can’t assume she’ll change. Thank you in advance. Danny*

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.

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The Panel The Rebbetzin Rebbetzin Faigie Horowitz, M.S.

anny, it seems that there are two things to be done in your situation. Think about yourself and your persona. Did you have trouble adjusting to sloppy roommates in camp and yeshiva? Has neatness caused you to have altercations with others such as siblings? How do you cope when you go somewhere and it’s messy? Do you criticize or do you act or do you leave? How do you deal with organization and neatness that is not exactly your style? Are you difficult to get along with in other areas? Do you fix things until they are perfect? It’s a good thing to introspect and consider your past habits and proclivities as well as your ability to be flexible, let things go, negotiate and compromise.

Second, talk to the young woman herself. Don’t accuse her of anything. Talk about yourself and your neatness needs. Hear her out as she talks about herself. She may or may not bring up the yom tov incident. Either way, you will have a context for greater understanding her and seeing how you navigate differences. Every couple will have differences. Successful daters watch how both deal with differences and conflicting styles. They also pay attention to conflict resolution.

The Shadchan Michelle Mond

hear your dilemma, but I do have another perspective. Has it even occurred to you that the tsunami in her room may have been

caused by her extended family? You did not elaborate if there were nieces and nephews, teenagers, or toddlers also at her house over yom tov. As a mom with young kids I know firsthand what mischievous shenanigans can be done at the hands of little ones. She is probably NOT a neat freak, the way you describe yourself, because if she were, her door would have been kept locked around the kids. This is actually very healthy and normal and shows that she is more relaxed around children. Maybe her nieces wanted to try on her trendy shoes? Perhaps her cousins wanted to share her beautiful clothes? This is a real possibility that it seems you have not even considered. If you read our column regularly you know how many severe issues can come up with dating. This does not need to be one of them! On your next date, bring the conversation of organization and cleanliness up in conversation. If you truly cannot physically handle a mess or dis-

Even if she turns out to be an incorrigibly messy housewife, please focus on the more important values in life and hire a cleaning lady periodically.

organization, you should be honest with her about this anyways so she knows what to expect should your relationship reach the next stage. If it is the case that she singlehandedly caused the mess in her bedroom, and you like her enough to want to marry her, you can consider hiring a

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The Single Tzipora Grodko

ear Danny, I don’t believe we can offer clear feedback since you didn’t specify your concerns other than the messy room. It’s extremely important to examine any concerns or doubts with someone you trust that can have an objective perspective. It sounds like the messy room feels like a manifestation of all your other concerns and might be the last straw that broke the camel’s back. Seek guidance from someone you respect for further clarification. Hatzlacha!

The Zaidy Dr. Jeffrey Galler

our letter is very different from the one we received a year ago, from a guy who was embarrassed to take his girlfriend to a restaurant because she “eats like a slob.” Here are my thoughts about your letter. A person’s bedroom is a very private and intimate space. When someone invites you into their bedroom, although unoccupied, it’s a sign of trust and comfort. You are very lucky to have a girlfriend who feels so comfortable with you, and so at ease with you, that she seemingly didn’t even consider the state of her room when you visited. Let me explain why I am not worried about her messy bedroom. You have been dating her for two months, and you call yourself a “clean freak.” Therefore, you would have noticed if your girlfriend was guilty of poor personal hygiene. That

Pulling It All Together The Navidaters

Learning the art of flexibility will help you tremendously before embarking on marriage.

would have been a serious concern. But a very messy bedroom? That’s not so serious, and here’s why. You need to understand that women spend a lot of time frantically preparing for a date or for a visit from a boyfriend. Ask some of your married friends to describe how their wives will feverishly try on, reject, and discard a multitude of different outfit combinations before declaring themselves ready to go out. So, Danny, here are some thoughts for you to consider: First, even if she turns out to be an incorrigibly messy housewife, please focus on the more important values in life and hire a cleaning lady periodically. Second, when a husband and wife discuss important concerns, it doesn’t really matter if the dirty socks remain on the floor instead of in the nearby laundry basket. What matters is that they share the same values, goals, and aspirations, and can work together, lovingly, as they negotiate life’s hurdles. Third, you may wish to express to her how you felt when you saw her room, but do it cleverly. Utilize what psychologists call the “Pygmalion Effect.” When good behavior is reinforced and when a person believes in his ability to succeed, it increases the probability of success. Accordingly, you

can say something like, “I love how you are always so neat, organized, and orderly. Your bedroom looked like you were in a big rush before yom tov.” By contrast, avoid what psychologists call the “Golem Effect.” When bad behavior is reinforced and a person’s abilities are belittled, this negative stereotype is reinforced, and it decreases the probability of success. Accordingly, don’t say something like, “Your room was a disaster, and it shows that you are a very messy person! I felt nauseous and sickened when I saw how disgusting your room looked!” Meanwhile, don’t worry. You and your girlfriend will grow together and learn to establish a mutually comfortable environment for each other. (I remember when my wife-to-be came to visit my home for the very first time. I very diligently spent a good ten minutes kicking all the clutter out of sight, behind a closet door or under my bed.)

came over and just didn’t have time to put away. Did her mother call her down to help with the meal and that is why the drawers were left open? Is she regularly very messy, or is this an occasional thing? In a relationship, when in doubt, talk to your partner. After two months of dating, and spending time with her family over the holidays, I think a mature, open conversation is most definitely warranted. And not a finger-pointing conversation, but a conversation in which you express your real and honest concerns with

her in a mature fashion. Hear what she has to say and then make your decision. There are people who are very neat and can put up with messy, and there are people for whom messiness disturbs their menuchas hanefesh. You have to figure which camp you belong to. Being that we never know an outcome before it happens, the only tools we have at our disposal are conversation with the other party and listening to our intuition. Hear her out and then listen to yourself. Sincerely, Jennifer

Dating and Relationship Coaches and Therapists

ear Danny, Thank you for writing to us. We are all entitled to our personal dealbreakers. And no one can tell you how to feel. If you know in your bones that this human being is not someone you could live with and you are enormously turned off, then that is significant and shouldn’t be ignored. A few things to cover as you make your decision…. The first is that you mention that you

are a “clean freak.” So, I was just wondering if her room is really as disastrous as you depicted. There is a difference between all her shoes sitting out and two or three pairs of shoes that she slipped out of. There is a difference between thirty dresses and articles of clothing that are laying out or three or four outfits she tried on in the morning before you

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.

OCTOBER 26, 2023 | The Jewish Home

cleaning lady for your future home. It does not need to be a deal breaker. Learning the art of flexibility will help you tremendously before embarking on marriage.

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Parenting Pearls

One Step Towards Stability By Sara Rayvych, MSEd

t seemed that as soon as the kids got back into the school schedule, they once again had a month off for the yomim noraim. We’ve all been overwhelmed since the tragic events of Simchas Torah, and getting into routine may be furthest from our minds. We often associate having a set schedule as being one method to help a busy household run that much more efficiently. This is true and is an important way to ensure everything gets done. With multiple family members – each with a different work or school schedule – along with the necessary daily tasks and Shabbos preparations, anything we can do to make the home run smoother is a basic necessity. But there is more to scheduling than simply preventing chaos. Children need the stability that comes from having a routine and rhythm to their day. Young children have little sense of time, and a standard routine gives them the ability to anticipate what’s next. Older children, too, benefit from knowing what is expected of them. I know many of us are finding it extra challenging to go on with our day

and pretend things are normal when the situation in Israel is so devastating. While we can’t ignore our brethren, we also want to attempt to get our children back into a schedule and return to them some of the stability they require, particularly in unstable times.

What Scheduling Means Being on schedule can mean different things, depending on the age and needs of each child. We often take the term “schedule” to mean exact times of day, but that doesn’t necessarily have to be the case. Often, this may look more like a rhythm to guide them as they do their tasks. Neither method is necessarily right or wrong; it has to fit the needs of those individuals. A time-based schedule would mean that each item happens at a particular time on the clock. These times don’t need to be to the minute and often occur during a range of time. For example, dinner could be at 7:00 or it could be between 7:00-7:30. A child can look at the time and know about how much time they need to wait until dinner will be served.

Having a rhythm to their day may mean they know bedtime happens after dinner, bath time and brushing their teeth. Perhaps it comes with a story or another ritual to mark the event. It’s less about the exact time and more about the order things occur. Even with maintaining a rhythmic day, there is usually some timeframe involved because you wouldn’t start dinner at 3:00 pm. For some children, they like the precision that comes with having a time they can see clearly on a clock. They also may appreciate knowing that dinner will be in thirty minutes without having to ask. Others may find this stifling or they’re simply not as tuned in to time. Older children, being more aware of time, are more likely to benefit from a time-based schedule. They know time and can count up or down to the event. They may benefit from the extra consistency this provides. Younger children, being less time conscious, may appreciate more of a rhythm to their day as they can predict that one event leads to another. They don’t have to know what time it is to know they need to get their pajamas ready soon after dinner ends.

While different ages may favor one of the two types of scheduling, individual children have their own needs. As an example, I have a preschooler who is still a beginner at telling time and usually needs my assistance. Despite that limitation, he often asks what time it is, wants to know what time the desired event is scheduled for, and will periodically ask me how much time is left until that event occurs. He clearly benefits from having a clear time in these situations.

Benefits of Scheduling There are a number of benefits to having a schedule. In general, schedules create stability and order. Many of us would find our homes turning into chaos if we don’t maintain some form of routine. As special as yomim tovim are, many of us find our children act out when they’re off their regular schedule. This is normal, and to be expected, but can’t last forever. Having a regular schedule allows children to know what to expect and be prepared. This creates both stability

how to read the calendar, they may not even be able to count to seven, but they see the familiar routine and they know Shabbos has come. The concept of time and days can be vague for kids. It takes a certain level of cognitive development to understand what it means when something will occur on a certain day, week or month.

Many of us would find our homes turning into chaos if we don’t maintain some form of routine.

Calendar Cues It’s not only their daily routine that provides children with stability, Shabbos and the yomim tovim give children important ways to recognize time. Mommy passes her hands three times over the lit candles and covers her eyes to whisper the bracha. Tatty goes to shul, joining the other men in the streets, many wearing suits and hats. When Tatty comes home, the fancy cup emerges, filled with wine, and traditional songs are heard. Washing their hands and sweet challah are next, often followed by a fish course. Our kids, even our youngest ones, know that Shabbos is here. They don’t know

it’s “after bedtime.” Sunday is meaningless, but “the day after Shabbos” provides a reference point. Even, “it will happen after three more Shabbosim” gives them a way to grasp multiple weeks passing. When there is a rhythm to their day, we can use that to help them appreciate the concepts of time and provide a

Time of day is also unclear. Saying three in the afternoon is meaningless. They don’t even know if 9:00 pm is afternoon or evening. It can be hard for younger kids to recognize when in time something will occur, but having a routine helps bridge some of those gaps. They don’t know when 9:00 pm is but they understand

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little more clarity in their young lives. Often, they eagerly want to know when something will occur, but we inadvertently give them meaningless answers. By referencing something familiar to their schedule, we can give them a way to understand things. I’ve often been surprised by what kinds of answers children find meaning-

ful. They desperately want to know when Chanukah is going to be, but they can’t conceptualize days, weeks or months. When I explained that we have Rosh Hashana, Yom Kippur, Sukkos, Simchas Torah and then Chanukah, they were happy with that response. As adults, we want a concrete measurable answer. Children simply want a way to make sense of important events in their life. In a time that feels unstable and we don’t know how we can continue with our daily lives, our children still need the stability that comes with maintaining their routine. It’s hard to balance extra fervent tefillos with regular bedtime, but at least there are some simple ways we can provide structure to their day. I join klal Yisroel in davening for the safe return of our chayalim and the hostages, as well as a refuah sheleima for all those injured. May Hashem grant His nation peace. Am Yisroel chai!

Sara Rayvych, MSEd, has her master’s in general and special education. She has been homeschooling for over 10 years in Far Rockaway. She can be contacted at Rayvych Homeschool@gmail.com.

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and efficiency. Transitions can be difficult, and children may find it easier to move from one activity to the next when they know to expect it and the routine is familiar to them. When we routinely sleep and eat at consistent times, our bodies become programmed to become tired and hungry at those times. Bedtime is a lot easier when your child’s body knows it’s time to shluff. Even if their cries say, “No, I’m not tired,” their little bodies say differently.

The Jewish Home | OCTOBER 26, 2023

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School of

Thought

By Etti Siegel

Dear Etti, My 10-year-old daughter is a highly sensitive child, an HSP. She notices and is triggered by small changes in her schedule, is hyper-aware of sounds and smells, and is very affected by the emotions of others around her. This makes her seem shy or introverted, but she isn’t any of those. My doctor said it is her temperament to be easily affected by changes around her. How can I help her adjust to school? Until now, we just hoped for the best, and overall, teachers have been understanding and helpful, but there have been many meltdowns. Thanks. -Mom of HSP

Dear Mom of HSP, So you are the proud parent of an HSP! Your daughter probably uses big words and has a great sense of humor. She is probably a deep thinker and asks a lot of questions. As a mother, I am sure you try to keep your child’s clothing smooth (as opposed to scratchy), take off labels, and keep seams away from her skin. You probably know that she learns better from gentle correction rather than loud yelling or serious punishment. She probably hates surprises; preferring to know every detail of everything in advance. She is sensitive to odd smells, as you mention, pain (even if slight), and people’s moods. (Readers who want to know more can check if their child is an HSP at https://hsperson.com/test/highly-sensitive-child-test/) There is a lot of emotion nowadays due to the tragic events in Israel, so I am sure she is even more affected than usual. Let’s share with our readers what HSP is all about. While HSP (highly sensitive person) is a relatively unknown term, it has been studied for years and given many labels. Dr. Elaine Aron, the psychologist who came up with the current terminology “the highly sensitive child” to explain what she was seeing, states that it occurs in approximately 15-20% of the population. It is not an illness, and there is no cure. The HSP takes a little longer to process what is going on around them, they don’t mind engaging with others, and they don’t have a sensory processing disorder – just a sensory processing sensitivity. As stated above, their nature makes them sensitive to bright lights, loud noises, and strong smells, and they are often bothered, not only by tags and seams in clothing, but by sand or chalk. Research shows that

cry. Crying is a release of emotion and these same children, in a favorable should never be shamed… At the very environment, often perform better My concern is least, let home be a place where feelthan their peers: they attain better ings can be felt.” https://www.nicholgrades in school, have higher levels when people of social competency and moral ataday.co.uk/post/the-highly-sensitivetitudes, self-regulate well, and show person-in-school latch onto a greater sense of security which Teachers often interpret an HSP’s terminology stems from the love they feel from reactions to overstimulation as being their families (Aron 2002; Pluess, low-motivation or ADHD. Sometimes, and attach Belsky, 2013). teachers correctly see HSPs as serious Research on how highly sensitive and conscientious students and place labels where adults experienced school by Achera more rowdy child next to them to man (2013) and Tilman (2016), agree balance the classroom out. This can they do not with Aron (2002). The findings are be very difficult for a highly sensitive that most HSP do fine overall in child. All the noise and distractions belong. school, even if they do not like being they are trying to block out are being there. placed in their vicinity! Most are perfectionists. Understanding how different chilMost do not really like working in dren learn is always beneficial. The groups. If they have to work in groups, they do their best more we know, the more we can accommodate different work with friends. learning styles. Most thrive in a quiet working atmosphere. My concern is when people latch onto terminology They prefer structured, frontal lessons, and find un- and attach labels where they do not belong. I was coachstructured time uncomfortable. ing in a school a while back where a teacher said that They get very off-balance and anxiety-ridden in un- parents in her class almost all claimed their daughters clear or new situations. were HSPs. The likelihood of that is very low. Putting Large groups and wide-open spaces (like a play- children into boxes, especially misdiagnosing, is often ground) are disliked, and HSPs prefer a small group of detrimental to a child’s growth. If we are trying to build friends in a smaller environment. grit and resilience, labeling children stunts their ability Conflict is so upsetting and might affect not only their to become strong and capable. ability to work in school, but their time at home after If your child matches the criteria on the HSP test refschool as they ruminate on what happened. erenced above, and the doctor shares your belief, then An over-decorated classroom, too much light, lights celebrate it. This is her gift. Let your child share with you turned on and off for discipline or Smartboard use can what she needs and let her direct her path in school in inhibit their being able to concentrate and do well. terms of speaking with teachers or letting her handle it You mention meltdowns. Being in school takes a lot of on her own. Follow her lead. energy, so HSPs, no matter their age, are often very tired Perhaps you will want to share this letter and reafter school. This can lead to tears. Nikola Day (2021) sponse with your daughter’s teacher. shares her personal experiences as an HSP. She points Hatzlacha! out the catharsis of crying. She writes, “Let your child -Etti

Mrs. Etti Siegel holds an MS in Teaching and Learning/Educational Leadership and brings sound teaching advice to her audiences culled from her over 35 years of teaching and administrative experience. She is an Adjunct at the College of Mount Saint Vincent/Sara Shenirer. She is a coach and educational consultant for Catapult Learning, is a sought-after mentor and workshop presenter around the country, and a popular presenter for Sayan (a teacher-mentoring program), Hidden Sparks, and the Consortium of Jewish Day Schools. She is a frequent contributor to Hamechanech Magazine and The Journal for Jewish Day School leaders. She will be answering your education-based questions and writing articles weekly for The Jewish Home. Mrs. Siegel can be reached at ettisiegel@gmail.com.

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Health & F tness

Food for a Better Mood By Tehila Levine-Soskel, RDN, CDN

levating your mood through food goes beyond the mere substance of the delicious flavors and appearance. Food has the potential to greatly influence our mental wellbeing with the myriad nutrients it contains. Let’s explore the fascinating connection of these mood-boosting foods that not only entice our taste buds but also help nourish our minds. Serotonin is known as the “feel-good” neurotransmitter helping with feelings of happiness and a sense of calm and contentment. Tryptophan is an amino acid that is found in many foods like cheese, chicken, egg whites, milk, fish, and seeds, which has been linked to increased serotonin levels. Turkey contains a high tryptophan content, making it a more satisfying meal and with the potential to increase your mood. In addition to tryptophan, omega-3 fatty acids may positively contribute to mood enhancement. Salmon is an example of a fatty fish that contains a variety of nutrients and is certainly known for being anti-inflammatory, which our body needs. Incorporating a salmon dish into our meals not only serves as a delicious meal but nourishes our minds, too. Folate, often found in dark, leafy greens such as spinach and kale, plays a role in mood enhancement and supporting mental well-being. Those who suffer from depression are often found to have

a folate deficiency. Folate, a water-soluble vitamin, is crucial for the synthesis of dopamine and serotonin which greatly impacts our wellbeing. Dopamine is a hormone that plays many roles in our bodies from crucial body functions, memory and motivation. With that, lower or higher levels of dopamine may be associated with certain mental health diseases. Next time you are eating a salad, opt for a spinach base, lots of colorful vegetables, and top it with beans and seeds for that extra folate. Not only will that salad be more visually appealing, it will offer more mood-boosting benefits. If you have read my previous article on the benefits of a variety of fruits and vegetables, then you know the continuous health benefits of consuming them. To recap, not only do the variety of vibrant colors make the meal more aesthetically pleasing, they offer an array of benefits from all the vitamins and nutrients. For instance, blueberries are both anti-inflammatory as well as an antioxidant, which is crucial to combat stress and inflammation. Next time you grab a yogurt, be sure to top it with blueberries to aid a more nutritious and satisfying meal. Next topic to dive into is probiotics. Probiotics play an imperative role in your body from supporting your immune system and fighting off infections to helping you digest food and keep you feeling good. Even more so, they may also help

your brain, too. According to research, the gut and brain are connected by a process called the gut-brain axis. It’s key to eat the right foods for your body that will fuel you the best way possible. Kefir, yogurt, sauerkraut, and fermented foods offer these beneficial microorganisms that your body needs. Whole grains like whole wheat flour and brown rice are complex carbohydrates, which are our body’s source of fuel to give energy to our muscles, brain, and heart. Like turkey, whole grains contain tryptophan, which helps with the production of serotonin, our feel-good hormone. In addition, whole grains contain fiber, which is crucial for a healthy gut, along with vitamins and minerals. Whole grains may also help control our weight and blood pressure and may help lower our chances of getting diseases like diabetes. Indulging in dark chocolate may offer a mood-boosting delight. Consuming dark chocolate helps release phenylamine and serotonin and helps stimulate the production of endorphins, the “feel good” hormones. A mindful indulgence of dark chocolate may help support emotional well-being. Certain spices like turmeric contain anti-inflammatory properties, which may help prevent and treat specific diseases. Curcumin is the active ingredient in turmeric, which is seen to potentially im-

prove health conditions like depression. Incorporating turmeric into soups, stew, and other recipes adds both flavor and emotional wellbeing benefits. Hydration is often overlooked for the infinite health benefits it carries. Specifically, proper hydration is crucial for optimal brain function. Dehydration can unfortunately lead to fatigue and mood swings. According to some research, women and men who drank the least amount of water had a significantly higher risk for depression compared to those who drank five or more glasses per day. If you are struggling to meet your water intake, try sipping on teas and infused water and consuming fruits and vegetables with a high-water intake like watermelon and lettuce. In this fast-paced world we are living in, stress is inevitable. Nevertheless, our food choices can help us manage our stress and help promote a better mood. By diversifying our diet with nutrient-rich foods, we are nurturing our bodies and mind.

Tehila Soskel is a registered dietitian nutritionist with a private practice in the Five Towns. She sees clients for weight loss, diabetes, and other various diseases. Appointments can be made for in-person or virtual sessions: 516-457-8558, tehilasoskelrd@gmail.com, tehilasoskelnutrition.com.

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Health & F tness

Maintaining the Friendship in Your Marriage By Malka Klaver

very marriage has conflict – even healthy, happy marriages. That’s what makes marriage such a powerful catalyst for growth: It forces us to learn about ourselves – how

we disagree, listen, express our wants and needs, and develop a new perspective on life. The key isn’t to agree on everything; it’s to hold each other’s views, ideas and feelings with care, sensitivity

and kindness. By definition, when we get married, we are committing to bringing someone into our world and going through life together. Hard and challenging as it may be, there is no other relationship that can bring the comfort and love that marriage can. Of course, great pain can come when we are not able to do this smoothly. We need a clear path to facilitate and nurture this integral part of the relationship. So what can we do? How can we set ourselves up for success to come out of a disagreement stronger and more whole as a unit? Now, I can practically hear you saying, “I know, I know, it’s all about communication.” But that’s a common misconception. In Dr. John Gottman’s groundbreaking research on marriages, he found that many people think conflict resolution is all about communication skills and styles. These definitely play a role, but what showed even more significance in the couples who had successful marriages was how close the couple felt with each other before conflict arose. According to this research, the most effective way to manage conflict and de-escalate it is to develop a close, loving friendship with your spouse. Let’s go back to the beginning. Why did we marry this person? We fell in love with their goodness and were drawn to their values and aspirations. They made us laugh, made us feel happy and safe to be ourselves. We loved who we were

and who we wanted to be when we were together. Once we committed to spending our lives with this person, we agreed to continuously work to maintain and build our love and connection. But how? One way to do this, says Dr. Gottman, is to build a culture of appreciation and fondness. Express gratitude or acknowledgement about something good your spouse does. “Thank you for working so hard for our family,” or, “You make me laugh,” or, “You’re a great parent!” Saying thank you and appreciating even small things your spouse does is vital. Be on the lookout, and you will notice numerous opportunities. One woman said to me, “But I can’t thank my husband every time he washes the dishes! It feels funny.” Anything new will feel weird initially. Try it. See what it does for your relationship. We all feel good when our efforts and strengths are recognized and appreciated, even if it’s the millionth time we went grocery shopping or put the kids to sleep. If you have a hard time verbally expressing appreciation or admiration, then find another way to communicate it to your spouse. Maybe leave a note or send a text. It’s integral you find a way to let them know that you notice them and consistently let them know you love and appreciate them. “Why?” you may ask. “Isn’t my spouse an adult? Am I responsible for them feeling good about themselves?” In a good marriage, partially yes, but in this practice, it’s not only about them –

admire about your spouse and one thing they did for you recently. Most importantly, tell them! Another key ingredient in strengthening and maintaining the friendship in our marriage is making time to talk to each other. Not about errands and to-do

spouse. Life is busy. Hard to find time? Yes. Highly rewarding? Yes! To make this practice more routine, I encourage you to try – when possible – to do dinner together without children. For some, that just isn’t doable, so set aside a time later where you will be able

We all feel good when our efforts and strengths are recognized and appreciated, even if it’s the millionth time we went grocery shopping or put the kids to sleep.

lists – share yourself and enable your spouse to do the same. Research shows that it is vital for couples to spend time talking about their day and listen empathetically to one another. Creating a space for that comfort and support in your marriage is game-changing. Oh – and put the phone away, please. It doesn’t feel good to have to compete for someone’s attention, especially your

to sit and talk with no distractions for 20-30 minutes. Again, not about what needs to be done, but about yourselves. Both people take a turn to share and listen. Pretend you’re dating your spouse again for those 20-30 minutes. Sounds crazy? It works. You both leave the conversation feeling known, cared for and connected. Making time to love, laugh and lis-

ten to your spouse is foundational to having and maintaining a close relationship and, more specifically, riding through normal conflict in a peaceful and harmonious way. Conflict can and will hurt, but our ability to express and discuss our feelings and perspective is going to be a lot greater when the relationship is in a good place emotionally. Work at it. It’s worth the investment. Notice, after a week of investing in your friendship: how does it feel when your spouse says something that you disagree with or bothers you? Is it the same level of annoyance? Is there frustration but less contempt or condescension? Try it. Let me know. I’d love to hear your feedback!

Malka Klaver is a certified marriage coach and marriage educator. She provides individual and group coaching, as well as yearly workshops, to educate and guide women to a closer, more connected marriage. She also hosts a weekly podcast titled, “Best Friends for Life,” where she discusses relatable challenges and practical tools to enhance marriage. For more information or to contact her, please visit malkaklaver.com.

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it’s also about you. A fascinating piece of Dr. John Gottman’s research was that one of the most dangerous ingredients for a marriage fraught with tension and intense fighting is the presence of contempt. Contempt is when a spouse feels a sense of condescension or disdain for their spouse. It manifests in various behaviors such as sarcasm, belittling, or eyerolling, and it leads to painful outcomes in the relationship. It may sound far removed from where you may be, but it doesn’t take long for one spouse to begin to feel contempt for the other and the connection to erode. Think about it. You are two different people living your life together. If you don’t intentionally focus on the areas that you love and appreciate about your spouse, the annoying behaviors and difficult differences will be highlighted. This will inevitably breed feelings of contempt and conflict where we act in hurtful, unproductive ways. How do we prevent this dangerous contempt from developing? By expressing admiration and fondness to our spouse. If you find yourself beginning to feel contempt, take a step back. Take a walk, write, reflect on two things you

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jewish women of wisdom

Neighborhood Joys By Rebbetzin Faigie Horowitz

verheard during recess between Shacharis and tekios on Rosh Hashana: a woman tells a much younger woman how she remembers her escorting her grandfather to a local shul and davening with great kavanah as an eight-year-old. How blessed are those whose childhood and forbears are recalled in a community! And how nice it is to come back for yom tov, even if you live elsewhere, to a place where your generations are present along with you. It’s a treasure that young people may not recognize, but we older ones relish knowledge of our families in the old and newer neighborhoods. About nine years ago, I had reason to be on Bennett Avenue in Washington Heights for a work appointment. My family had left the neighborhood about forty years earlier, and to my surprise, two people stopped me on the street where I’d gone to high school. What a chizuk it was! The credit really went to my parents, not me. I had not spent many years in the Breuer’s community at all. My parents did; my father, zy”a, as rosh yeshiva and rav, and my mother as an activist rebbetzin and mentor to many. We were raised with respect and admiration for the Hirschian kehilla, its leaders, and its values. The stalwart soldiers in Hashem’s army, the rank-and-file yekkes who upheld yashrus, minhag, and kavod haTorah were examples that we lived with, davened with, and observed long after the Perlows departed their Fort Washington apartment. A taste of what was home for several years suffused my encounter on those timeless concrete streets of Upper Manhattan. The shul, the high school building, and the buildings hadn’t aged much at all. It’s the lived lives, the people who make a neighborhood, however. It’s not just whom you see on the street or in shul or in the park. It’s the values they live by, the roots of their commitments, and their backgrounds. And if we know the particu-

lars of the people, how much richer is our appreciation of our old neighbors and the communities where we lived. On the first day of Rosh Hashana, I suggested to a congregant that she wait before departing after Musaf. I brought down a volume of family history of a Washington Heights family who’d lived in the same apartment building as her family for years. It would add to her simchas yom tov, I told her, which she confirmed the next day. She knew the family as neighbors. I knew them as schoolmates two blocks over. But who knew what remarkably strong German Jewish stock they came from? Who knew that her father had come to New York without any family and kept Shabbos as a teen? How he worked odd jobs during high school and beyond to pay for his necessities and board? That he’d gone to yeshiva for one year when someone paid the tuition of the young refugee orphan? Who knew that this community askan lived his values as young child, family man, and insurance salesman day in and day out? I’m going to share the book with my mother, said the congregant. Sure, but please return it, said I. I want my kids to read it, to savor the flavor of what Washington Heights people were like in their personal lives and the rich Jewish background they had. Just seeing those posed photos almost one hundred years old gives one a sense of the fortitude and faith of the rank-and-file Jews in the Hirschian hinterland of rural German towns. The women are wigged, and all family members sit upright and serious, aware of who they are and what their goal is at the moment. Just knowing that the German Jewish community was reinvigorated by Rav Breuer, zt”l, in Khal Adath Jeshurun, the Breuer’s kehillah, is not enough appreciation of this shevet of Klal Yisroel. My children must know more. Another Washington Heights friend’s father directed that his memoirs to be published posthumously. They were gift-

Rav Breuer with Rav Schwab of the Washington Heights community

ed to me because our parents were close friends. The slim volumes made the rounds among my kids a few months ago. JR’s ethical commitment to his employer while a young immigrant without credentials, the thick network of fellow young men who were interested in learning even as they missed out on a Torah education, and his business relationships throughout his successful career in the mineral industry make for a compelling narrative, even if my kids don’t recognize all the names. Making a kiddush Hashem cannot be taught simply in school as how to behave in public places. It’s more than just acting in a dignified fashion, not leaving litter, and saying thank you to the service people. Learning from lived lives in depth, observing the financial, personal, and religious challenges, makes for examples in living Torah values. Just this chol hamoed Sukkos I finally picked up a memoir left for me in my son’s home in Monsey. It was penned by a neighbor in our building in the Heights. This one read like a novel with a family saga starting in Galicia with Bobover Chassidim. It continues in Germany of the 1920s, the Kindertransport, London, the British Army in postwar Berlin, Washington Heights, and the Upper East Side. The impact of the epicenter of German culture in interwar Berlin, site of artistic and intellectual ferment, on the family and the sense of betrayal during the early Nazi era is profound and vividly shown through a personal perspective. The impact of particular mentors on lone adults is lifelong and life-altering. You can be sure everyone at the latter yom tov meals, from young to old, was fascinated by the life story of the Manhattan art framer.

Every Holocaust story is different. Those that show specific traditions, and unique mesorah through people I knew, even if slightly, are particularly meaningful. They tell of the continuity of a Torah culture in a family despite persecution and through perseverance. I continue to marvel at the array of books coming out about people I knew or whose paths I crossed at some point. Of course, there are the staunch survivors of Hitler’s inferno who stayed committed during their early years in this country like Mrs. Frieda Bassman who went on to build a business, a family, and a community in Chicago. New autobiographies and biographies of American-born people who chose to be on Hashem’s staff for kashrus, chinuch, and community building continue to be published for family or the Jewish public. The early years, the influences, family roots, sacrifices, and the hard, hard work are so instructive, I find, and give me a greater appreciation of what they did. I look at those with family roots, and those who accomplished with little tradition and family, and I marvel at the strength of Torah Yidden. Peeking into the personal lives of people we knew from our neighborhoods old and newer make for good chinuch. Let’s share the memoirs of others with our adult children who will absorb timeless Jewish values from regular folks. Great Jews are not only the ones who are famous.

JWOW! is a community for midlife Jewish women which can be accessed at www.jewishwomanofwisdom.org for conversation, articles, Zoom events, and more.

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In The K tchen

Modern Israeli Salad By Naomi Nachman

Try my twist on Israeli salad. The fresh herbs really give an extra burst of flavor. You can also add in your favorite vegetables and swap out the feta for cubed chicken for a meat alternative.

Ingredients

Dressing

◦ 3-4 tomatoes, diced small

◦ 1 whole lemon, juiced

◦ 2 Persian cucumbers, diced small

◦ 2 tablespoon olive oil,

◦ ½ red onion, chopped

◦ ¼ teaspoon cumin

◦ 1 can chickpeas

◦ ¼ teaspoon sumac

◦ ½ yellow pepper, diced

◦ Kosher salt

◦ 1 avocado, diced

◦ Ground black pepper

◦ ½ block crumbled feta ◦ ¼ cup assorted fresh herbs – mint, parsley, cilantro

Preparation

Place all vegetables in a bowl and add cheese on top of salad. Mix the dressing ingredients together in a small jar and pour over salad before

serving.

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.

The Jewish Home | OCTOBER 26, 2023

132

Mind Y

ur Business

Ramon Ray: The 5 Ways to Live Your Best Business

his column features business insights from a recent “Mind Your Business with Yitzchok Saftlas” radio show. The weekly “Mind Your Business” show – broadcasting since 2015 – features interviews with Fortune 500 executives, business leaders and marketing gurus. Prominent guests

include John Sculley, former CEO of Apple and Pepsi; Dick Schulze, founder and Chairman Emeritus of Best Buy; and Beth Comstock, former Vice Chair of GE; among over 400+ senior-level executives and business celebrities. Yitzchok Saftlas, president of Bottom Line Marketing Group, hosts the week-

ly “Mind Your Business” show, which airs at 10pm every Sunday night on 710 WOR and throughout America on the iHeartRadio Network.

n a recent 710 WOR “Mind Your Business” broadcast, Yitzchok Saftlas spoke with guest Ramon

Ray. Ray drew from his experience as a speaker, author, and personal branding expert to share his insights on how to live your best business.

1. Take Risks

* * *

This is a problem that both large companies and small companies share. For example, take Kodak. They were too late to fully embrace the world of digital cameras and let that opportunity slip through their fingers. When we play things too safe,

it can limit our growth. But you still need to remain calculated in the risks you take. First, consider the worst-case scenario. What’s the exact dollar amount you could stomach to lose if something goes wrong? Next, consider the best-case scenario. Does it outweigh the potential risks? I was once invited to go to England to speak at an event. The organization put me through to their event manager, who said that I needed to have a work visa to come to Europe. I gave him $798 to get my work visa, but it turned out to be a scam in the end. But that $798 was worth my potential speaking fee of $30,000. I could stomach the $798 loss. The risk was worth the potential reward.

2. Dream Bigger Everyone says that they want more profitability or to help their customers. But you can dream bigger. Being average is boring. What can you do to make a bigger impact? That mindset is how you get noticed in the business world. In 2005, I had a dream to start my own public speaking business. At that point, I had only done small talks and blogs. But,I decided to dream bigger and held a large event at the Roosevelt Hotel in New York City. I didn’t know if anyone would come. I didn’t know if I could get speakers or sponsors. But, I dreamed big, and that dream spread and grabbed a hold of a lot of other people. My business has only grown from there. That’s the impact that dreaming big can have.

3. Know Your Customers

It’s fine for a shirt company to just say, “We sell shirts to anybody who wants shirts,” but when you really know who your customers are, you can serve them far better. For example, two companies could be selling the same kind of bread but reach totally different audiences through the way they market and speak to their customers. One could use language to target older parents preparing lunches for their kids, while the other targets a younger crowd with more extreme language. As a professional speaker, sure, I could speak for any event that wants to hire me. But I know the elements that make up my perfect audience. I know which venues I’ll be able to serve best. The better you know your customer, the better you can speak their language and relate to them.

4. Learn to Prioritize Remember that there are only a few hours in a day. That’s why it is vital to start delegating tasks. Trust in your staff to do what needs to get done, even if they won’t do it as well as you would. Another important part of prioritizing is learning how to say no. If you start saying no to the things that really should not be consuming your time, you’ll get to say yes to the things that you really want and need to get done. Just remember to always uplift the other person, even as you are telling them no.

5. Establish Systems and Operations Systems and operations are the re-

peatable actions that keep your business moving. Many larger businesses have these in place, but it’s something that smaller businesses should really develop as well. Scalable systems and operations are the only way to really grow your business. In Jim Collin’s book, Turning the Flywheel, he suggests that you ask yourself, “What are the things that make my business work?” Write those things down, communicate them to your team, and incorporate them into your systems and operations. There’s no shame in being boring and developing a structure for your company’s workflow. Boring is good. A certain level of predictability will help your business run like a welloiled machine.

So, to summarize: Take Risks: Be willing to do things you wouldn’t normally do. Dream Bigger: Oftentimes, business owners are dreaming too small or not dreaming enough. Dream beyond whatever the standard expectation is. Know Your Customers. Don’t just build a product to serve everyone, because you’ll end up serving no one. Learn to Prioritize: We all only have a certain amount of time in our schedules. You must prioritize and learn to say no, so that you can say yes. Establish Systems and Operations: Develop tasks within your business that are repeatable and scalable.

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Notable Quotes “Say What?!”

Don’t go to college. If you absolutely have to go, don’t go to an elite college because as recent events have shown, it just makes you stupid. Elite schools should no longer be called elite – just say expensive. – Bill Maher, HBO

There are few if any positives to come out of what has happened in Israel but one of them is opening America’s eyes to how higher education has become indoctrination into a stew of bad ideas, among them the simplistic notion that the world is a binary place where everyone is either an oppressor or oppressed. – Ibid.

I cannot condone the dangerous anti-Semitism that has taken root on their campus. - Former Maryland Governor Larry Hogan (R) in a letter to Harvard backing out of an agreement to give a course there next semester

Anyone who wants to identify with Gaza is welcome—I’ll put them on buses that will send them there. I’ll help them get there. - Israel’s Police Chief Kobi Shabtai warning Palestinians in Israel not to show support for Hamas

The same students who will tell you that words are violence and silence is violence were very supportive when Hamas terrorists went on a … murder rampage as if they were the Vikings. They knew where to point the fingers—at the murdered—and then it was off to ethics class. Now, I recognize that a certain amount of foolishness is expected of college kids, but mixing Jägermeister with tomato juice isn’t the same as siding with terrorists. 34 student groups a Harvard signed a letter that said the apartheid regime is the only one to blame, proving they don’t know what constitutes apartheid. - Ibid.

This isn’t pickleball, it’s war. I mean, it’s like these are not two sides with equal merit and equal dishonor. It’s terrorists versus Israel. Enough with the ceasefire talk. We had a ceasefire. It was on October 6th. You know, you can’t break a ceasefire, wage war, and then call a ceasefire. The era of the free punch is over. - Greg Gutfeld, Fox News

They don’t know much of anything actually, but it doesn’t deter them from having an opinion. They’ve convinced themselves Israel is the most repressive regime in history because they have no knowledge of history or even a desire to know it. And actual history doesn’t come up in their intersectionality of politics and gender… identities class. - Ibid.

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If you scream “genocide” but were silent about the massacre of October 7th, you might hate Jews. If you call for a ceasefire but not the release of hostages, you might hate Jews. If you oppose Israel’s right to defend itself but say nothing of Hamas, Islamic Jihad, Hezbollah, and Syria’s continuous rocket launches toward the civilian population of Israel, you might hate Jews. If you spoke out against Israel’s tragic bombing of the hospital in Gaza, but made no contraction once you learned it was actually done by Islamic Jihad, you might hate Jews. If you use inflammatory language regarding Israel no matter how flawed their government, but use measured and apologetic terminology around Hamas, a terrorist organization whose charter clearly states their intent to kill Jews, you might hate Jews. If you chant “decolonize,” but fail to condemn the chanting of “gas the Jews” at rallies in city streets and universities worldwide, you might hate Jews. - Social media post by actress and comedian Amy Schumer

Imagine publishing info from Al-Qaeda. ISIS. Nazis.@nytimes published “facts” from Hamas genocidal terrorists who days before perpetrated atrocities in an assault on humanity. Murder… abduction…& published on front page of a “newspaper.” Sorry doesn’t cut it. – Israel’s Foreign Ministry tweeting in response to The New York Times’ explanation that they falsely reported that Israel bombed a Gaza hospital because they “relied too heavily on claims by Hamas”

When I was 14, my parents were murdered. I survived, and today I have a grandson. They had done this to you at age 12. You will also survive and have grandchildren in Eretz Yisroel. - Ariel Zohar, 12, who is the only survivor of his immediate family, being addressed by his 90-year-old grandfather who is a Holocaust survivor

Innocent Israelis were the victims of a terrorist attack that resulted in the largest loss of Jewish lives since the Holocaust. Now we know that the tragedy at the Gaza hospital was not caused by Israel. I grieve for every innocent person and brave Israeli soldier killed since Hamas started this war. If not for the horrific attacks by Hamas terrorists, thousands of innocent Israelis and Palestinians would still be alive today. Now is not the time to talk about a ceasefire. We must support Israel in efforts to eliminate the Hamas terrorists who slaughtered innocent men, women, and children. Hamas does not want peace, they want to destroy Israel. We can talk about a ceasefire after Hamas is neutralized. In the meantime, I look forward to working with my colleagues in the Senate to quickly deliver the aid our ally Israel needs. This includes confirming ambassador-nominee Jack Lew as soon as possible. - Powerful statement by Sen. John Fetterman (D-PA)

Jews in Egypt were never repressed. - Egyptian President Abdel Fattah El-Sissi—who must have skipped Bible class— addressing U.S. Sec. of State Anthony Blinken

@GretaThunberg, Hamas doesn’t use sustainable materials for their rockets which have BUTCHERED innocent Israelis. The victims of the Hamas massacre could have been your friends. Speak up. - Israel’s Foreign Ministry tweeting at global warming rabble-rouser Greta Tunberg after she posted a pro-Hamas statement

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We truly don’t deserve you. Your sacrifice is not in vain. You have succeeded in replacing the outdated concept of majority rule with an exciting new standard that a Speaker must be elected by 98.2 percent of the Republican conference. Someday, a messiah will be born unto us who can achieve this miraculous threshold, and on that day, your judgment will be vindicated and you will be hailed as the geniuses that you are. - Rep. Tom McClintock (R-CA) in a tongue-in-cheek letter to Rep. Matt Gaetz (R-FL) and his other seven colleagues who ousted Rep. Kevin McCarthy (D-CA) as House Speaker, throwing the Republican House caucus into chaos for the past three weeks

So we have to be careful, you gotta get out there and you got to watch those voters. You don’t have to vote, don’t worry about voting. The voting, we got plenty of votes, you gotta watch. - Former President Donald Trump at a campaign event in New Hampshire

what Donald Trump does now, he is wedded to the teleprompter. He can’t get off that teleprompter, any time he does, he says things like “Don’t vote.” He’s telling people not to vote like we have all the votes we need. Really? Wait a minute, you lost the popular vote to Hillary Clinton in 2016. You don’t have all the votes you need.

It is important to also recognize the attacks by Hamas did not happen in a vacuum. The Palestinian people have been subjected to 56 years of suffocating occupation. They have seen their land steadily devoured by settlements and plagued by violence; their economy stifled; their people displaced and their homes demolished. Their hopes for a political solution to their plight have been vanishing. -UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres to the UN Security Council this week

Many of America’s most respected elite universities are not only indulging but actually endorsing sanctioned student organizations holding celebrations for the murders…

Even war has rules. We must demand that all parties uphold and respect their obligations under international humanitarian law; take constant care in the conduct of military operations to spare civilians; and respect and protect hospitals and respect the inviolability of UN facilities which today are sheltering more than 600,000 Palestinians. The relentless bombardment of Gaza by Israeli forces, the level of civilian casualties, and the wholesale destruction of neighborhoods continue to mount and are deeply alarming.

- Dr. Phillip C. McGraw, of the TV show “Dr. Phil”

-Ibid.

The leadership of these supposedly highly sophisticated schools are so busy virtue signaling and coddling students who think that words are violence, but violence, horrific, inhumane violence is social justice…

The UN Secretary-General, who shows understanding for the campaign of mass murder of children, women, and the elderly is not fit to lead the UN. I call on him to resign immediately. There is no justification or point in talking to those who show compassion for the most terrible atrocities committed against the citizens of Israel and the Jewish people. There are simply no words.

– Gov. Ron DeSantis at an Iowa campaign event arguing that Trump “Lost the Zip on His Fastball”

- Ibid.

- Israel Ambassador to the UN Gilad Erdan, responding to Guterres’ horrific words, on X

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Political Crossfire

Vast Gaza Tunnels Present a Battlefield of Nightmares By David Ignatius

s analysts map the blood-soaked terrain of battle between Israel and Hamas, they sometimes speak of “two Gazas” – the visible one above ground and a vast network of tunnels below. Israel is preparing to enter the second Gaza in what might be the most dangerous and deadly phase of this war. Drilled deep under the sandy soil in a honeycomb that Gazans sometimes call the “Metro,” the tunnels are Hamas’s defense in depth, literally. They hide rockets, artillery, ammunition and other war supplies – as well as the fighters themselves. They provide a last redoubt, an underground Alamo. Israel won’t be able to “crush” Hamas, as Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has vowed, without taking these subterranean command posts. But the underground maze is also where as many as 200 Israeli and American hostages might be hidden. Rescuing the hostages – rooting out the terrorist fighters nearby without killing their captives – will be a supreme test of arms for the Israeli military. “The capabilities of the tunnelers are limited only by their ingenuity,” says Scott Savitz, a senior engineer for the Rand Corp. who has studied tunnel warfare for decades. He notes that, even with the most advanced technologies, finding all the Hamas tunnels in Gaza will be a “protracted” process and that Israeli soldiers will have to clear them even if robots do the initial surveillance and attack. “Robots are helpful, but they are not a panacea,” Savitz cautions. Hamas has long seen this network as a kind of strategic reserve for its terrorism operations. Khaled Meshal, the organization’s former leader, told a Vanity Fair interviewer in 2014: “In light of the balance of power, which is shifted toward Israel, we had to be creative in finding innovative ways. The tunnels

were one of our innovations … putting more obstacles in the way of any Israeli attacks and enabling the resistance in Gaza to defend itself.” The Gaza tunnels have haunted Israel for years because they allow surprise attacks and strategic deception. A 2014 paper for Israel’s Institute for National Security Studies noted a long, frustrating string of attacks dating back nearly two decades: Israeli raids in 2004 destroyed more than 100 tunnels after a June tunnel attack killed one soldier and wounded five, but that December, another booby-trapped tunnel killed five soldiers and wounded six. Then, in June 2006, Hamas used a cross-border tunnel to kidnap Pvt. Gilad Shalit, who was eventually freed in 2011 with the exchange of more than 1,000 Palestinian and Arab prisoners. Israel continued destroying tunnels – and Hamas kept building more. The culmination came during an assault on Gaza in 2014 called Operation Protective Edge. Thirteen Hamas terrorists were captured emerging from a tunnel near a kibbutz, and Israel launched a campaign to detect and destroy tunnels

across Gaza. But the network survived and expanded. Israel realized after the 2014 campaign that Havmas had big plans for creating mayhem inside Israel. Peter Lerner, the Israeli military spokesman at the time, said in October 2014: “Hamas had a plan. A simultaneous, coordinated, surprise attack within Israel. They planned to send 200 terrorists, armed to the teeth toward civilian populations. … The concept of operations involved 14 offensive tunnels into Israel. With at least 10 men in each tunnel, they would infiltrate and inflict mass casualties.” The macabre 2014 plan returned in an updated version this month. This time, it involved paragliders, motorcycles and a breakout through the border fence – and the tunnels were the place the terrorists took their captives. Technology has provided useful tools but not solutions. Radar and other conventional surveillance systems have limited ability to detect tunnels that are as deep as 60 feet underground. But the United States and Israel have both developed ways to measure the magnetic, thermal and acoustic signatures of these

underground facilities. The Pentagon has funded exotic techniques such as robot snakes that can carry advanced sensors deep underground and earth-eating robot worms (in a project called Underminer) that can munch their way toward hideaways. Robots can do some of the fighting, too. When wheeled robots face obstacles, two- or four-legged robots can enter hidden hallways and disable attackers with autonomous guns, missiles or bombs. But Savitz cautions that “human beings will still need to go into tunnels” – where they might encounter ambushes, hidden explosives and mines. The Israeli military has an elite unit within its engineering corps known as “Samur,” the Hebrew word for “weasel,” which is also an acronym for the phrase “passageways and tunnels.” These are some of Israel’s toughest fighters, and they will likely experience intense combat over the next few weeks. The “weasels” use the latest technology, but they don’t trust it, according to a 2020 study drawing on interviews with 17 former members. “I’m in favor of entering tunnels,” one officer who served with the unit told researchers, adding dismissively: “To enter a tunnel after a robot has combed through it … the environment becomes more sterile.” Said another: “I think being a warrior in Samur is no less complex than being a pilot.” Explained a third: “Technology is ever present, but somehow it always seems to break down.” Much of the hardest fighting to come in this war will be out of view, in conditions most of us can barely imagine, with hostages caught in the crosshairs. But the outcome might well hinge on what happens in those cavernous depths. (c) 2023, Washington Post Writers Group

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Jewish History

By Rafael Medoff

amas has built “a labyrinth of tunnels under Gaza, as wide as a city,” CNN reported on October 14. The tunnels were used to facilitate the Hamas pogrom, and the 200 Israelis whom Hamas kidnapped probably are being held there. So how did Hamas acquire the cement, despite Israel’s blockade of such materials? Apparently, Hamas had some help from former U.S. Mideast envoy Dennis Ross—according to Ross himself. Ross has been appearing as an expert commentator on major media outlets in recent days, including on NBC-TV’s “Meet the Press” on October 8, CNN’s “Amanpour and Company” on October 13, and Fox News on October 14, among others. Yet Ross did not think it was relevant to mention in any of those interviews that he himself pressured Israel to let Hamas obtain the cement—a role he admitted in an op-ed on August 8, 2014. In the op-ed, Ross described how, as a U.S. envoy, he urged Israel to allow Hamas to import cement even though he knew, at the time, that Hamas had been using cement for military purposes. “At times,” he wrote in the Washington Post, “I argued with Israeli leaders and security officials, telling them they needed to allow more construction materials, including cement, into Gaza so that housing, schools and basic infrastructure could be built. They countered that Hamas would misuse it, and they were right.” In the 1930s, Americans were divided about permitting U.S. exports to another terrorist regime, Adolf Hitler’s Nazi Germany. President Franklin D. Roosevelt maintained trade with the Nazis, arguing that the persecution of the Jews in Germany was none of America’s business. But Jewish organizations, and many

Mayor Fiorello LaGuardia refused to deal with Germany

other Americans, participated in a boycott of German goods. One noted supporter of the boycott was the mayor of New York City, Fiorello La Guardia. In 1935, the city’s Bridge Authority purchased five hundred tons of sheet steel from Nazi Germany, in order to build the Triborough Bridge. La Guardia learned of the deal while bedridden at Mount Sinai Hospital after a painful attack of sciatica. But he did not let his illness deter from him intervening. In a telegram to Bridge Authority chairman Nathan Burkan, the mayor announced that he did not want that “[darned] steel” in his city. “The only commodity we can import from Hitlerland now is hatred,” La Guardia declared, “and we don’t want any in our country.” Technically, the Bridge Authority was an independent agency that did not require the mayor’s approval for its construction purchases, but the mayor found grounds to block the deal: he bore responsibility for New Yorkers’ safety, and he could not vouch for the reliability of Hitler’s steel. He wrote to Burkan:

“I cannot be certain of its safety unless I first have every bit and piece of German made material tested before used.” He added, in German: “Verstehen sie [Do you understand]?” La Guardia took his share of heat for his one-man campaign against Hitler Germany. Six thousand German-Americans held a rally in New York City and pledged to vote him out of office. Nazi propaganda chief Joseph Goebbels threatened to bomb New York City. Secretary of State Cordell Hull complained that La Guardia’s actions were harming German-American relations. The mayor was not fazed. “I run the subways and [Hull] runs the State Department–except when I abrogate a treaty or something,” he declared in classic La Guardia style. One dissenter within the Roosevelt administration regarding Nazi Germany was the secretary of the interior, Harold Ickes. In late 1937, President Roosevelt approved the sale of helium to power Germany’s Zeppelin airships, telling Congress it was “sound national policy” for

the United States to be “a good neighbor” to Germany. After initially supporting the sale, Secretary Ickes reversed himself in the wake of Hitler’s annexation of Austria in March 1938. That aggression proved it would be dangerous to provide the Nazis with a gas that was “of military importance,” Ickes declared. News of the dispute leaked to the press. A number of members of Congress then publicly opposed the sale, and mail to the White House ran heavily against it as well. At a White House conference between Roosevelt, Ickes, and the administration’s legal experts in May, the solicitor general informed the president that the sale could not go forward without the interior secretary’s approval. But FDR refused to give up. At a cabinet session two days later, the president again pressed Ickes to support the sale; Roosevelt was backed by all but two of the cabinet members. (Labor Secretary Frances Perkins and Treasury Secretary Henry Morgenthau, Jr. said nothing.) FDR suggested he could relieve Ickes of responsibility by giving him a letter stating it was Roosevelt’s “judgment, as Commander in Chief of the Army and Navy, that this helium was not of military importance.” Ickes still refused to budge. It’s a pity that statesmen of the caliber of La Guardia or Ickes weren’t around when Dennis Ross was urging Israel to let Hamas import cement. One suspects they would have offered very different counsel.

Dr. Medoff is founding director of The David S. Wyman Institute for Holocaust Studies and author of more than 20 books about Jewish history and the Holocaust. His latest is America and the Holocaust: A Documentary History, published by the Jewish Publication Society & University of Nebraska Press.

OCTOBER 26, 2023 | The Jewish Home

Who Gave Hamas the Cement For Tunnels?

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Israel Today

Biden’s Impossible Demand By Caroline Glick

n nearly every statement and speech U.S. President Joe Biden gave during his brief sojourn in Tel Aviv, he insisted that Hamas does not represent the Palestinians and that the Palestinian Authority is their true representative. The P.A., the president insisted, does not share Hamas’s goal of eradicating the Jewish state and the Jewish people. Biden foresees a future where the P.A. is in charge of the Gaza Strip, and Israel agrees to a Palestinian state in Gaza, as well as in Judea and Samaria. On Friday morning, the P.A. provided guidance to its mosque preachers ahead of its weekly services. They were told to declare war on Israel and join the jihad whose goal is the annihilation of the Jewish state and people. As HaKol HaYehudi news service and Regavim’s research department revealed in a joint release, the P.A.’s guidance read: “We call upon our Palestinian people: The preservation of public and personal property is a religious and moral national duty … our Palestinian people … cannot raise a white flag until the occupation [aka Israel] is removed and the independent Palestinian state is established with Jerusalem as its capital.” The guidance continued with the passage from the Islamic hadith that calls for genocide of the Jewish people. “The time will not come until the Muslims fight the Jews and the Muslims

kill them, until the Jew hides behind the stones and the trees and the stones or the trees say, ‘O Muslim, O Servant of G-d, this is a Jew behind me. Come and kill him.” As the hours passed on Friday, Jewish communities in Judea and Samaria added more sandbags and firing positions for Israel Defense Forces to their already reinforced entrances. Biden’s visit to Israel was a study in cognitive dissonance. On the one hand, he spoke warmly and emotionally about the U.S.’s commitment to Israel’s security. And on the other hand, the goal of his visit—to enable supplies to enter Hamas-controlled Gaza and preserve the open falsehood that the P.A. is a responsible, non-genocidal alternative to Hamas— indicates that his actual policy is deeply hostile towards Israel. As he put it on his way back to Washington in remarks to reporters aboard Air Force One: “My goal was … basically to get humanitarian aid into Gaza and to get as many Americans out who wanted to get out—could get out as possible.” After noting that he secured Israel’s agreement to his demand, Biden added: “And the second thing was that I wanted to make sure there was a vehicle, a mechanism, that this could happen quickly.” In other words, it wasn’t enough for Israel to bow to his demand; he wanted to ensure that the acceptance would be fol-

lowed by action. According to cabinet ministers, Biden also conditioned U.S. military supplies to Israel on Israel’s pledge not to preemptively attack Hezbollah, which has been steadily escalating its aggression against northern Israel through cross-border raids and missile strikes. Biden reasonably expected that in light of his open, single-minded pursuit of his goal of constraining Israel’s freedom of action, the Arab leaders in surrounding states would treat him as their friend. Yet rather than be greeted with the respect due to the leader of a superpower who is constraining the actions of the Jewish state, he was treated with unprecedented contempt. Jordan’s King Abdullah, P.A. chief Mahmoud Abbas and Egyptian President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi abruptly canceled their planned summit with Biden in Amman. They used Hamas’s false accusation that Israel bombed the Al-Ahli Arab Hospital in Gaza City last week, which reportedly killed 500 civilians, to justify their action. Never mind that within an hour of the initial claims, Israel demonstrated conclusively that it was an errant Palestinian Islamic Jihad missile en route to Israel, which fell short of its target, that caused the damage. As far as the Arab leaders were concerned, Hamas’s libel gave them license to dismiss the president of the United States like a servant. Rather than respond with anger to

the slight, Biden maintained his single-minded effort to use Israel’s need for U.S. munitions as a means to force Israel to constrain its offensive operation and end its effort to block Hamas’s resupply through Egypt. Biden praised the Arab leaders who insulted him. He upheld Abbas as a peacemaker. And he refused to pressure el-Sisi to allow Palestinians to cross the border into Egypt to escape Hamas’s clutches and seek a safe harbor in a third country.

The West Responds On Cue Biden’s insistence that Israel permit humanitarian aid to enter Gaza shows that he is a willing participant in Hamas’s war plan. Hamas, like all the jihadist terror groups targeting Israel, follows a war doctrine with two phases. In phase one, the jihadists massacre Jews. Their tactics adapt to their circumstances and capabilities. Sometimes, they use axes, knives and rocks. Sometimes, they use suicide bombers. And sometimes, they use assault rifles or RPGs or ballistic missiles. On October 7, they used all that, and with Jews under their power, the depths of their sadism were given full expression through the unimaginable atrocities they perpetrated on their victims—men, women, children, even infants. The second stage of their war begins when Israel launches its retaliatory response. As soon as Israel opens fire, they

the BBC insisted that Israel’s proof wasn’t definitive. Even after Biden arrived in Israel on Wednesday and acknowledged that Israel had not bombed the hospital, Sky News maintained that the question of who was behind the bombing remained “shrouded in uncertainty.” And anyway, everyone agreed, the most important thing to do now was secure “humanitarian aid” to Gaza.

relic who doesn’t understand modern-day warfare or technology. On October 7, every operational failure Brick warned of manifested itself. Since that catastrophic day, Brick is finally being listened to. He warned that Hamas is preparing a death trap for IDF forces. To properly execute the offensive, Israel needs a hermetic siege of Gaza. All electricity and

Biden’s insistence that Israel permit humanitarian aid to enter Gaza shows that he is a willing participant in Hamas’s war plan.

The problem with that claim is that there is no such thing as “humanitarian aid.” Since Hamas is in charge of Gaza and controls its border with Egypt, Hamas oversees and controls everything that comes into the area. It will take whatever it wants and give whatever is left to its supporters—the last people in Gaza who need the world’s assistance. So the entry of supplies into Gaza is nothing more than the resupply of Hamas. When questioned by CNN, Biden’s Deputy National Security Advisor Jon Finer couldn’t explain how the United States can prevent Hamas from taking control of the goods entering Gaza. Resupply of Hamas is an operational disaster for Israel. Hamas’s military infrastructure is almost entirely located in a warren of underground tunnels. An estimated 40,000 terrorist fighters and Hamas’s military leadership are living and operating from within the tunnels. To defeat Hamas, Israel needs to fight those forces above ground, not below ground where their tactical advantage is decisive.

Siege of Gaza Must Remain Hermetic On Thursday night, IDF Maj. General Yitzhak Brick gave an extended interview to Israel’s Channel 14 in which he set out Israel’s operational challenges and imperatives in Gaza and beyond. Brick served for more than a decade as the IDF’s ombudsman, and from his position, he exposed and warned about the major failings of the IDF’s operational readiness. His warnings, published in a series of detailed reports, were roundly dismissed by the IDF General Staff. IDF generals refused to take Brick’s criticism seriously and dismissed the hero of the 1973 Yom Kippur War as a

water must be cut off from the tunnels. That can only happen if the siege of Gaza remains hermetic. By blocking electricity and water, Israel will force Hamas’s terror army to come aground, where Israel will be able to defeat them. This process, Brick explained, may take several months, and the ground offensive must be delayed until it is completed because it is the only way for Israel to defeat Hamas.

In the meantime, Brick explained, Israel needs to develop a civil guard comprised of civilians, equipped with the weaponry required to defend its civilian population from jihadist attacks from the P.A. in Judea and Samaria, from Hezbollah in northern Israel, and from Arab-Israeli jihadists throughout the country. The P.A.’s declaration of war on Friday is further evidence that Brick must be listened to. Given the nature of Hamas’s war footing, Biden’s insistence on resupplying Hamas under the guise of “humanitarian aid,” directly undermines Israel’s operational requirements. And it renders the U.S. president Hamas’s greatest defender. Since Biden departed, cabinet ministers have been stating openly that Israel has no choice but to obey Biden. Otherwise, we will lack the capacity to wage war. But it appears that they have it precisely backwards. If Israel obeys Biden—no matter how many U.S. platforms it receives—it will be unable to win the war. Israel’s only chance of achieving its imperative of destroying Hamas as a military organization and a regime is to reject Biden’s demand and block all resupply to Hamas. (JNS)

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insist Israel is massacring their “innocent civilians.” They insist that they are experiencing a “humanitarian crisis.” They show canned footage of civilians wailing and bloody. And, when the opportunity arises, they disseminate a blood libel against the Jews, accusing Israel of committing the crimes they just committed against the Jews. They then sit back and wait for two things to happen—and both inevitably do. First, they wait for their fellow jihadists throughout the Islamic world to join their jihad. Second, they wait for the West to condemn Israel and block it from defeating them. Hamas’s false claim that Israel killed 500 civilians at the Gaza hospital and the world’s response was a case in point. As soon as Hamas, operating under the title “Gaza Health Ministry,” began disseminating its blood libel, the Islamic world responded on cue. A mob began rioting outside Israel’s embassy in Amman. Crowds in Turkey and Morocco began calling for jihad against the Jews, and Israel promptly dispatched El Al carriers to evacuate Israeli civilians from both countries. Hamas leaders abroad, along with Al-Qaeda and ISIS, issued calls for their members to kill Jews worldwide. In Beirut and Bagdad, jihadist riots incited by Hamas and Iran led thousands to surround the U.S. embassy in Beirut and riot in Baghdad’s central squares. U.S. forces in Syria and Iraq came under repeated drone attacks by Iranian-backed terror militias. The West also responded on cue and with unbridled eagerness. First, the media jumped into action. Every major and minor media outlet from Paris to New York and Los Angeles blasted the claim that Israel had bombed a hospital in Gaza and killed 500 innocent civilians. All demanded to know when a ceasefire would be established and when Israel would lift its siege of Gaza and allow humanitarian aid to enter. All agreed that Israel had lost its moral right to attack Hamas for its one-day holocaust or for the fact that it is illegally holding hostage 203 Israelis, including 30 children and 10 seniors. No one noticed that the main humanitarian crisis in Gaza is the plight of those hostages—not the terror army and terror-supporting society holding them captive. When Israel proved that it was Islamic Jihad, Hamas’s partner, and not the Israeli Air Force that was responsible for the assault on the hospital, media organizations from The New York Times and Washington Post to

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Forgotten Her es

The Corps of Engineers Part II By Avi Heiligman

Constructing the Galveston Seawall in Texas

ctive since 1775, the Army Corps of Engineers is tasked with designing and building projects for the both civilian uses and the military. During the 20th century, they were tasked with many more complex assignments that included the construction of the Pentagon and the Panama Canal and research facilities that were involved in the Manhattan Project. Engineers were sent overseas in both World Wars and other conflicts to support units fighting on all fronts. Combat Engineers were assigned to come ashore on D-Day, and Pioneer Troops were formed in the Pacific to assist the infantry in that theater of war. Here are some of the projects assigned to the Corps of Engineers as well as some of the service members who served in their ranks from the beginning of the 20th century until today. A devastating hurricane in 1900 hit Galveston, Texas, killing over 6,000 people. The Corps of Engineers under Chief of Engineers Henry Robert were called in to build a wall with the purpose of preventing damage from future hurricanes. Construction began in 1902, and two years later, the wall’s first section was completed. The Galveston Seawall has been very successful in doing its job, especially during a category 3 hurricane in 1983.

Other Corps of Engineers projects were undertaken in the early 20th century, like the building of roads in Yellowstone National Park and its involvement in the building of the Panama Canal. The canal, which was opened in 1914, was overseen by chief engineer Major George Goethals. The West Point gradu-

The building of the Panama Canal

al, came out of retirement to become the acting quartermaster general with the tasks of creating improvised ships and improving the supply chain methods. Other engineers arrived in Europe soon after the United States entered the war and were attached to other Allied engineer units, especially railway units.

Under Goethals, the canal was built below budget, before the deadline, and with no corruption – problems that mired many similar projects.

ate had been involved in the building of many dams, roads, and bridges and was chosen by President Theodore Roosevelt after two civilian engineers walked off the job. Under Goethals, the canal was built below budget, before the deadline, and with no corruption – problems that mired many similar projects. The Corps of Engineers’ ranks were greatly expanded during World War I. Goethals, who was now a major gener-

American engineer troops began arriving in the thousands starting in the latter part of 1917 and soon were building bridges, roads and railway lines both at the rear and near the front lines. Other engineers were employed making munitions and defensive equipment. Huge facilities were needed during World War II to support the many projects and service members who had been enrolled in the military. The Corps of

Engineers worked on building depots, ports, hospitals, barracks, airfields and many other needed facilities for the military both in the United State and abroad. One of the most complex and largest projects they worked on was the Manhattan Project led by General Leslie Groves. The Manhattan Project was the world’s first successful research and development project of nuclear weapons. Groves was a Corps of Engineers officer and was in charge of all aspects including technical, scientific, production, construction, and finally the use of the bomb. He directed research that started at the University of Chicago and built the sites at Los Alamos, Oak Ridge, Tennessee, and Hanford, Washington. His selection of Jewish nuclear physicist Robert Oppenheimer as the director the Los Alamos facility led to the development of the first atomic bombs. Engineers were posted to front line units and present at many battles, including the landings at Normandy on D-Day. Trained combat engineers were assigned to blow up underwater obstacles and clear defenses the Nazis set up on the beaches. Enemy fire was really heavy on Omaha Beach, resulting in thousands of American casualties. Several engineer teams were unable to

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Nuclear physicist Robert Oppenheimer with General Leslie Groves at Los Alamos

achieve objectives due to the gunfire, casualties or being landed in the wrong place. However, other engineer teams were successful. Exits off the beach were cleared by the engineers so the landing troops could get off the beach as quickly as possible. Once ashore, engineers used demolition gear to clear the beaches of any obstacles and then moved inland to clear any minefields or barriers that the infantry encountered. Later, the engineers prepared the beaches for heavy equipment and built roads for troops to start attacking inland. Fifteen Distinguished Service Cross-

es were awarded to engineers for their heroism on D-Day. Privates Vinton Dove and William Shoemaker were bulldozer operators who encountered anti-tank defenses while under heavy gunfire. They alternated turns on the bulldozer to clear a path through a shingle, get rid of roadblocks and filling an anti-tank ditch. Lieutenant Robert Ross was also awarded the medal. He noticed that heavy enemy fire was coming from one of the beach exits and led his platoon up the crest to engage the Germans. The unit killed forty enemy soldiers, captured two machine gun

emplacements, and opened up the exit on Omaha Beach. The engineers were right there with the infantry as they cleared France from the Nazis and made their way into Germany. In March 1945, infantry units captured a bridge at Remagen, and the engineers built an additional floating pontoon bridge across the Rhine River. Many top generals like Douglas MacArthur and Maxwell Taylor served with the engineers early in their careers. Jewish actor Mel Brooks was a combat engineer during World War II and saw action during the Battle of the Bulge.

The Army Corps of Engineers often are given complex or tough tasks but manage to complete the missions despite difficulties. Their achievements are frequently overlooked, but these Forgotten Heroes pave the way for others to succeed.

Avi Heiligman is a weekly contributor to The Jewish Home. He welcomes your comments and suggestions for future columns and can be reached at aviheiligman@gmail.com.

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SERVICES DONT WAIT TO BUY REAL ESTATE Buy Real Estate And Wait Alexandra Mikhaylova 516.784.0856 Realty Connect USA SHOMER SHABBOS DRIVERS With Suburbans available for airport, hourly rates, out of town trips 646-208-6593 PEACEFUL PRESENCE STUDIO Men’s private yoga, Licensed Massage & Holistic Health Guidance 436 Central Ave, Cedarhurst Info. & free video training www.peacefulpresence.com 516-371-3715 GERBER MOVING FULL SERVICE MOVING Packing Moving Supplies Local Long Distance Licensed Insured 1000’S Of Happy Customers Call Shalom 347-276-7422 HANDYMAN AVAILABLE For big or small jobs, Sheetrock, carpentry, painting, electrical, plumbing, install & repair appliances Call Ephraim at 347-593-4691 VACUUM SALES AND REPAIR All areas call Max Flam 718-444-4904 MANAGEMENT STAFF WILL ASSIST you with: * Obtaining Medicaid and Pooled Income Trust * In-home Assessments, Individual and Family Counseling * Securing reliable home care assistance * Case and Care Management services Dr. S. Sasson, DSW, LCSW (718) 544- 0870 or (646) 284-6242 HAIR COURSE: Learn how to wash & style hair & wigs. Hair and wig cutting, wedding styling Private lessons or in a group Call Chaya 718-715-9009 ZEVIZZ WOODTURNING JUDAICA Challah knifes, batei mezuzah, besamim holder, kiddish cups, havdalah candle holders, yad for sefer torah, pens, stenders, bowls and more 952-356-2228

HOUSES FOR SALE

DON’T GET STUCK WITH A TWO STORY HOUSE YA KNOW, IT’S ONE STORY BEFORE YOU BUY IT BUT A SECOND STORY AFTER YOU OWN IT! Call Dov Herman For An Accurate Unbiased Home Inspection Infrared - Termite Inspection Full Report All Included NYC 718-INSPECT Long Island 516-INSPECT www.nyinspect.com

CEDARHURST JUST LISTED Magnificent renovated 4 bedroom 3 bathroom in SD#15, new roof, windows, plumbing + electric, gas cooking, new marble bathrooms, marble kitchen with stainless steel appliances, LED lighting, security cameras and speakers throughout the home, custom closets, outdoor patio, 1 car garage, near all. Mark Lipner Associate Broker Berkshire Hathaway Laffey International 516-298-8457 mlipner@bhhslaffey.com

WOODMERE Introducing a desirable colonial located in the heart of Old Woodmere, situated on an oversized lot. This charming home boasts 4 bedrooms and 3 full baths, along with a full finished basement. The first floor features a formal living room, dining room, kitchen with a breakfast room, and a spacious den. It is conveniently located in School District #14. Don’t miss out on this must-see property! Mark Lipner Associate Broker Berkshire Hathaway Laffey International 516-298-8457 mlipner@bhhslaffey.com HEWLETT Exquisitely renovated and modernized residence situated on a picturesque 50x200 lot. 4 bedrooms, 3 full bathrooms. First floor features dining area, huge living room, expansive kitchen with modern cabinetry, two sinks, two ovens, and two islands. Second floor features 4 bedrooms, a nursery, primary suite with WIC. Private backyard with 400 square foot inground pool house/ guest house, cabana with a kitchen and grill, playground, basketball court. Fully paid solar panels. A fully renovated basement featuring a wet bar, separate outside entrance. Close to all houses of worship. Mark Lipner Associate Broker Berkshire Hathaway Laffey International 516-298-8457 mlipner@bhhslaffey.com LAWRENCE Stunning One of a Kind Mid Century Modern 6 Bedroom, 6.5 Bath, Contemporary Ranch. Resort Style Home on Over an Acre of Property in Back Lawrence. Incredible Views, Regulation Size Tennis Court - Deco Turf. IG-Gunite Pool, Low Taxes, 5318 sq. ft. of Main Floor Living Space. Plus 5000 sq. ft. Basement With Very High Ceilings. Call Mark 516-298-8457 for more details Mark Lipner Associate Broker Berkshire Hathaway Laffey International 516-298-8457 mlipner@bhhslaffey.com WOODMERE Beautiful, brick, colonial boasting 5 bdr 3.5 Bth in pristine condition. Excellent location, near all! Move right in! RCUSA 516-512-9626

NORTH WOODMERE Stunning Split , 5 Bedrooms With 3 Full Baths. Custom Features Throughout. Well Maintained Home. Hardwood Floors, Granite Counters in kitchen, Formal Living Room and Dining Room, Den, Full Finished Basement. Relax in the Private Backyard With Inground Pool. SD#14. A must see! Close To All Houses of Worship Mark Lipner Associate Broker Berkshire Hathaway Laffey International 516-298-8457 mlipner@bhhslaffey.com

WOODMERE HEWLETT CEDARHURST

HOUSES FOR SALE CAN’T AFFORD YOUR PROPERTY TAXES? MORTGAGE? Must sell for any reason? Call for FREE Consultation. Call now 212-470-3856 Cash buyers available! WOODMERE Charming Colonial on beautiful tree lined street in the heart of Old Woodmere. Home features 3 bedrooms, 1.5 baths, kitchen, dining area, living room, full basement. Relatively new heating system + hot water tank. Large & beautiful backyard. Great for entertaining. Close to all. Mark Lipner Associate Broker Berkshire Hathaway Laffey International 516-298-8457 mlipner@bhhslaffey.com

WOODMERE CEDARHURST LAWRENCE

Quality New Construction!!!

Spacious Wide Line Expanded Ranch on Most Prestigious and StuccoTurn Col. with Story Entry 9Ranch ft Ceilings, 14 Zone New! Key2 Expanded Nestled in Heat quietwhich Impeccably Renovated Center Hall Colonial 4+ Serene Cul-de-Sac in Village of Lawrence , Main Flr Master Bdrm includes Radiant Heat, Anderson Windows with Lots of Natural Cul-de-sac. floor primaryChefs suite, Great room Bdrms 3Baths, Chefsand Eik, Full Finished Basement. OPEN HOUSEEIK,Main 3:00-4:30 223Eik Hickox Avenue HOUSE 12:30-1:30 1068 Suite with Many Closets Bthrm, Addional Main Flr highland Bdrm & Bath, Light Throughout, Flr Fdnr, Magnificent with High End OPEN Totally renovated New. Chefs EIK, 5 Center Hall Colonial with Main Level+Den 3 BRs Baths Lg Flr Fdnr Huge Den, EIK, Mudrm, 4 Bdrms 23Bths onFinished Second Flr, includes Family/ Dining area, 2High ad’l Ceilings, oversized bdrms, Classic Charm with Contemporary Style. $2.2M Appliances, DbleColonial. Ovens , 6Like Burner Cooktop with Pot Filler, Bdrms. Prime Woodmere location! Property BeautifulBeautiful Wrap Around Property, $1.690M 2 Dishwashers, and more. Master Bdrm Suite with Luxurious Bath Basment finished basement, Deck & Fenced Property $1.659M $999K and Walk in closet,+4 Bdrms and 2 Beautiful Bths ,2nd Flr S.D. 14 $995K Laundry Rm , Full Finished Basement with 10 ft Ceilings Huge

WOODSBURGH CEDARHURST LAWRENCE

Playrm 2 Bdrms and Bth laundry Rm storage, Beautiful Manicured Garden.

CO-OPS/CONDOS WOODMERE CO-OP FOR RENT

LAWRENCE CEDARHURST Grove Room Doctor’s Suite, Kitchen. 261 Central Ave 1st144 Floor, Large9Entry Foyer, Open Concept Spacious Waiting Room, On Main Floor. Location! Large LR/DR Overlooking the All Courtyard $229K LAWRENCESUTTON PARK 5BR C/h LAWRENCE 240 Central Avenue Col,Mic,Flr,Fdr, Beautiful M Lvl Den/Fpl Full Finished Spacious 1 Bdrm 1 Bth Apt in Well Maintained Elevator Bldg Basement. with Terrace Overlooking Garden, Near All $229K

This spacious s/h col , in the prestigious village of woodsburgh, sits on 1/2 acre property in a. most serene setting, with beautiful Norman Chateau Style Home, BR,on .60 waterviews, and magnificent sunsets 9000sqft, . Flr banquet7fdnr COMMERCIAL RENTAL! NEW! 9 ,Room Drbdrm officesuite Suite, Located breakfast rm, main level den /fpl master with his Acre. 10’ Ceilings, 20X40 Heated Gunite Pool. inand theher Heart of Cedarhurst, room, Reception closets and bth + 4Spacious bdrms , waiting new bths, newly renovated NEW PRICE $2.495M Area and Exam Rooms, all on Main Floor. Close to Public finished basement with laundry rm, playrm, lots of storage, Transportation many special details thruout $1.9M+ $6,000

FAR ROCKAWAY LAWRENCE BACK LAWRENCE AREA 4+Br, Flr,Fdr, 156Eik, B 9th St Mint 2BR, 2 BTH Lg Beautiful Sunrm,Cac,Full Basement. Beachfront Condo with Wraparound Terrace, Magnificent

FAR ROCKAWAY-READS LANE Area 4+Br, C/H Col, Sunrise & Sunset $589K 29 Woodmere Blvd Apt 2B Renovated, Mint, Corner 1 Bdrm Oversized Prop. with 9ft Ceilings. Spacious Eat In Kitchen, 2 Sinks, Granite Counter tops and S.S. Appliances.Large Lvgrm/Dnr and Large Bdrm/BR with Lots of Windows REDUCED $299K

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HOUSES FOR SALE

WOODMERE New to the market. 3 bedroom 2 full bathrooms with a full basement. Ranch home in the heart of Woodmere, SD#15, on a lot sized 90x118, gas heat, garage. Mark Lipner Associate Broker Berkshire Hathaway Laffey International 516-298-8457 mlipner@bhhslaffey.com

WOODMERE Welcome to this stunning residence situated on a tranquil residential street in Lawrence SD#15. This spacious and flawlessly maintained home boasts 4 to 5 bedrooms. Bright, airy living room with vaulted ceilings, skylights and wet bar. Central air conditioning, elegant quartz countertops, eat-in kitchen, formal dining room, main floor den with fireplace, master bedroom with bathroom snd dressing room, Jacuzzi tub, three other bedrooms and two full bathrooms. Inground sprinklers, lush landscaping, alarm system. Spacious playroom. Two-car garage. Mark Lipner Associate Broker Berkshire Hathaway Laffey International 516298-8457 mlipner@bhhslaffey.com

WEST HEMPSTEAD Introducing a stunning new construction home. Nestled in a picturesque neighborhood. Large windows, open-concept layout that merges the various living spaces. The expansive living room is bathed in natural light, thanks to the windows that offer great views of the surrounding area. Gourmet kitchen with top-of-the-line stainless steel appliances, sleek cabinetry, expansive center island with a breakfast bar. Ample counter space and a welldesigned layout. Wonderful dining area providing. Large glass doors, spacious patio. Luxurious master suite with a spacious bedroom, a lavish ensuite bathroom and a large walk-in closet. Additional bedrooms. High-end finishes, premium flooring, and custom details throughout. Call for pricing Mark Lipner Associate Broker Berkshire Hathaway Laffey International 516-298-8457 mlipner@bhhslaffey.com

FAR ROCKAWAY COMPLETELY DRY HOUSE in erev Sukkos storm. Low flood insurance. Built 2006, original owner, 3,000 sf, 4 br (easily 5), 2.5 bth, playroom, tons of storage, MBR with en-suite bath and 3 walk-in closets; gourmet kosher kitchen, 2-zone HVAC, deck with sukkah pergola, 2 add’l balconies, 2-car garage + 2 parking spots, fenced side yard, many extras. 889k. 917-882-6438

CEDARHURST Move Right into This Very Spacious & Renovated 6 Bedroom, 3 Full Bath, Colonial on a Lovely Quiet Street. 5 Very Large Bedrooms All on 2nd Floor. Beautiful Den W/Fireplace & Playroom; Both on 1st Floor. Gorgeous Hardwood & Granite Floors, New Wood & Granite Kitchen With Stainless Steel Appliances. Great Backyard For Entertaining! Very Low Taxes. Mark Lipner Associate Broker Berkshire Hathaway Laffey International 516-298-8457 mlipner@bhhslaffey.com

HEWLETT Lovely & Spacious 2 Bedrooms, 2 Updated Baths Unit on First Floor with Wonderful Terrace to Enjoy The Outdoors. Formal Dining Room Leads to Large Living Room, Granite Countertops in Kitchen. Prime Location. Steps Away From LIRR, Parking, Shopping, Restaurants + More! Don’t Miss Out! Must See!!! Mark Lipner Associate Broker Berkshire Hathaway Laffey International 516-298-8457 mlipner@bhhslaffey.com WOODMERE Woodmere just listed 3 bedroom 2 full bathroom hi-ranch in sd #15 with central air-conditioning , gas heat, 2 car garage, eat-in-kitchen, l/r, d/r, den, hardwood floors, minutes to transportation , shopping, and houses of worship Mark Lipner Associate Broker Berkshire Hathaway Laffey International 516-298-8457 mlipner@bhhslaffey.com

NEW TO THE MARKET Hewlett-Woodmere school district. 4 bedroom 3 full bathroom home features living room with a fireplace, formal dining room leading out to the deck, eat-in-kitchen with granite countertops, stainless steel appliances, 2 dishwashers, double oven, new microwave, primary bedroom with an en-suite bathroom, plus 3 additional bedrooms and 2 full bathrooms, large family room, central air conditioning, gas heat, in-ground sprinklers, hardwood floors, modern high hat lighting, custom window treatments, driveway has recently been done, 2 car garage, beautifully landscaped plus so much more. OPEN HOUSE SUNDAY OCTOBER 29 12:00-2:00PM 1027 DARTMOUTH LN Mark Lipner Associate Broker Berkshire Hathaway Laffey International 516-298-8457 mlipner@bhhslaffey.com WOODMERE Spectacular 5 bedroom, 5 bath renovated home in SD#14 with in-ground pool & pool house, lot size 111 x 107. Formal living room & dining room, magnificent kitchen with SS appliances, tremendous den with fireplace and 4 skylights, vaulted ceiling, LED lighting, master suite, new CAC, new roof. Outside totally redone with Stone and Stucco. Backyard with new pavers, park-like property, sandbox, great home for entertaining. Close to all. Mark Lipner Associate Broker Berkshire Hathaway Laffey International 516-298-8457 mlipner@bhhslaffey.com

WOODMERE Spacious home within school district 14 with exquisite upgrades and central air conditioning, splendid kitchen with dual sinks, five bedrooms. Main level encompasses a spacious great room, office space, complementing the formal living and dining areas. Unfinished basement, detached garage. Expansive lot, measuring 80 x 100. Conveniently located near shopping, railroad, restaurants and places of worship. Mark Lipner Associate Broker Berkshire Hathaway Laffey International 516-298-8457 mlipner@bhhslaffey.com WOODMERE Introducing a stunning 14-side hall colonial home in the Hewlett Woodmere School District. Formal living room, formal dining room, den with a skylight. Eat in Kitchen, two sinks, a double oven, a warming draw and a microwave. First floor bedroom, a full bathroom and laundry room. Two-car garage. Upper level has four bedrooms, two full bathrooms. Finished basement with playroom, storage and utilities. Well-groomed exterior with porch adjoining the master bedroom. Hardwood floors and back patio. Central air conditioning, inground sprinkler system, alarm system. Close proximity to schools, shopping centers, restaurants, and transportation options. Mark Lipner Associate Broker Berkshire Hathaway Laffey International 516-298-8457 mlipner@bhhslaffey.com

WOODMERE Spacious home within school district 14 with exquisite upgrades and central air conditioning, splendid kitchen with dual sinks, five bedrooms. Main level encompasses a spacious great room, office space, complementing the formal living and dining areas. Unfinished basement, detached garage. Expansive lot, measuring 80 x 100. Conveniently located near shopping, railroad, restaurants and places of worship. OPEN HOUSE SUNDAY OCTOBER 29 • 11:00-2:00PM 223 HICKOX AVENUE. Mark Lipner Associate Broker Berkshire Hathaway Laffey International 516-298-8457 mlipner@bhhslaffey.com VALLEY STREAM Meticulously cared-for high ranch with four bedrooms and two full baths. Expansive dimensions, measuring 58 x 133. Two-zone, gas-heated system, central airconditioning, and an inground sprinkler system. The upper-level features three inviting bedrooms, accompanied by a full bathroom. The well-appointed living room, elegant dining room, and an eat-in kitchen complete this level. On the ground floor, you’ll find an additional bedroom and bathroom, a spacious den with sliding doors that lead to the backyard, convenient washer and dryer facilities, and an attached garage. Great access to schools, shops, restaurants, and public transportation. Mark Lipner Associate Broker Berkshire Hathaway Laffey International 516-298-8457 mlipner@bhhslaffey.com

FOR RENT Office space/Storage Large room available for rent in Far Rockaway. Private entrance. Call or text 917-678-4121

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COMMERCIAL REAL ESTATE

APT./COOP/CONDO SALE

5 TOWNS – PARKING LOT FOR

WOODMERE Just listed - House Rental 6 bedroom residence. Living room with soaring vaulted ceilings and fireplace. Oversized den with fireplace. Family room. Central air conditioning. Five bedrooms on a single level. Close proximity to the railroad, shopping destinations, and houses of worship. Mark Lipner Associate Broker Berkshire Hathaway Laffey International 516-298-8457 mlipner@bhhslaffey.com

WOODMERE Welcome to this exquisite and expansive 1 Bedroom co-op in the highly sought-after and prestigious Heathcote. Recently renovated, generously sized foyer. Vasr Eat-InKitchen. Situated in a classic pre-war building, this residence features 9-foot ceilings that add an air of elegance and sophistication. The convenience of an elevator ensures easy access to all levels, making everyday living a breeze. Private storage room. Mark Lipner Associate Broker Berkshire Hathaway Laffey International 516298-8457 mlipner@bhhslaffey.com

LAWRENCE JUST LISTED This amazing two-bedroom two full bathroom condo Features a luxurious lifestyle in the beautiful city of Lawrence. What more could you ask for? The building has a 24-hour doorman and elevator access, with a social room, library, washer/dryer inside the unit, and terrace. Plus, the added benefit of having a live-in super to ensure maximum safety and security! And don’t forget about your new kitchen complete with a gas stove, refrigerator, microwave, and even two dishwashers! The living room and dining room are spacious and have recessed lighting installed throughout. Both bedrooms feature lots of closet space for storage. To top it off, there’s even garage parking available to make your life just that much easier! Don’t miss out on this incredible opportunity. Please call for a private showing Mark Lipner Associate Broker Berkshire Hathaway Laffey International 516-298-8457 • mlipner@bhhslaffey.com

LEASE Great Location For 10-20 Vehicles. ~4000SF Call/Text/WA Owner: 516-206-1100

CONDO FOR SALE LONG BEACH Renovated one bedroom, 1.5 baths, duplex, 2 terraces with ocean views, 24 hours concierge, inground heated pool, gym, sauna, covered parking spot, pet friendly building. Located near the beach, transportation and houses of worship. Contact: Fran Adelson, Associate Broker CTR21 Verdeschi & Walsh, (516) 987-8649 Franadelson@aol.com

APT./COOP/CONDO SALE WOODMERE 1 bedroom apartment, elevator building, eat-in kitchen, full bath, hardwood floors, plenty of closet space. Ceiling fan in bedroom & kitchen, laundry room in the basement. Close to the railroad, shopping, and houses of worship. $179k Mark Lipner Associate Broker Berkshire Hathaway Laffey International 516-298-8457 mlipner@bhhslaffey.com

LAWRENCE New to the market Generously sized 1 bedroom 1.5 bathroom coop in an elevator building, with a 24 hour doorman, underground parking, double terrace, central air conditioning, washer/dryer and storage on the floor, eat-in-kitchen, living room and dining room, no steps into the building or to the apartment, minutes from shopping, park, transportation, and houses of worship. $479,000 Mark Lipner Associate Broker Berkshire Hathaway Laffey International 516-298-8457 mlipner@bhhslaffey.com

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ISRAEL REAL ESTATE

HEWLETT Totally renovated 1 and 2 Bedroom, Apartments with washer/dryer, kitchen with quartz countertops, stainless steel appliances. Recessed lighting, hardwood floors, storage in basement. Close to RR, shopping, and houses of worship. Mark Lipner Associate Broker Berkshire Hathaway Laffey International 516-298-8457 mlipner@bhhslaffey.com

WOODMERE Generously proportioned, first-floor apartment in an elevator-equipped building in the heart of Woodmere. This Co-op boasts three bedrooms, two full bathrooms. Lofty ceilings, spacious foyer, formal living area and dining space. Expansive kitchen with gas stove, microwave, dishwasher, washer-dryer. Hardwood floors provide an elegant touch, and the comfort of five air-conditioning units ensures year-round climate control. Three bedrooms, with the primary bedroom having en-suite full bathroom. Dedicated storage. Near shopping centers, railroad, dining and places of worship. Mark Lipner Associate Broker Berkshire Hathaway Laffey International 516-298-8457 mlipner@bhhslaffey.com

LAWRENCE Spacious 2BR, 2 Full Bath Apt with an enclosed terrace in the heart of Lawrence. Well maintained & manicured building. New hardwood floors, updated Eat-in Kitchen with gas stove. warming draw, dishwasher & microwave. New windows on the enclosed terrace & one of the bedrooms. 3 New A/C Units & New Refrigerator. Close to shopping, transportation, library, schools, and houses of worship. $339K Mark Lipner Associate Broker Berkshire Hathaway Laffey International 516-298-8457 mlipner@bhhslaffey.com

RAMAT BEIT SHEMESH G1 *Available this summer in RBSG1* 5 bedroom/4 bathroom (3 full- 1 half) 1st floor • Building w/ an elevator Quiet street • Close to bussing (local and to Yerushalayim) Across the street from a few different Shuls Walking to G1 Mercaz Available July 12 - Aug 9 with flexibility For more info WhatsApp 347-831-5128 or call 053-412-7194

CEDARHURST 1, 2 and 3 bedroom apartments, totally renovated private entrance , central air conditioning, hardwood floors, washer/dryer, garage parking, dishwasher, recessed lighting, private playground, close to railroad, park, shopping and houses of worship. Call for more details Mark Lipner Associate Broker Berkshire Hathaway Laffey International 516-298-8457 mlipner@bhhslaffey.com

TJH Classifieds Post your Real Estate, Help Wanted, Services, Miscellaneous Ads here. Weekly Classifieds Up to 5 lines and/or 25 words 1 week ................$20 2 weeks .............. $35 4 weeks .............. $60 Email ads to: classifieds@fivetownsjewishhome.com Include valid credit card info and zip code

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WOODMERE Well maintained 1 Bedroom apartment. Elevator Building. Pet Friendly, SD#14, Corner Unit, Bright + Sunny, Hardwood Floors, Eat-in Kitchen, Full Bathroom, 3 Closets, 2 Ceiling Fans, 1 A/C Unit, Full Time Super on Premises. Minutes from the Railroad, Shopping, Houses of Worship, and Laundry Room on Premises. Mark Lipner Associate Broker Berkshire Hathaway Laffey International 516-298-8457 • $175K LAWRENCE New to the market Jr. 4 apartment in an elevator building with a terrace and underground parking, laundry on premises. Kitchen with granite countertops, 2 sinks, ss appliances, spacious step down living room with high ceilings, guest room/ office, spacious primary bedroom with 3 closets, full bathroom with full vanity, medicine cabinet, toilet and lighting, custom blinds, near the railroad, shopping and houses of worship.$289K Mark Lipner Associate Broker Berkshire Hathaway Laffey International 516-298-8457 mlipner@bhhslaffey.com WOODMERE Totally renovated bright and sunny 1 bedroom corner unit apartment with a washer/dryer. Features quartz countertops, ss appliances, recessed lighting, bathroom with chrome fixtures, close to the railroads, shopping and houses of worship. Call for details Mark Lipner Associate Broker Berkshire Hathaway Laffey International 516-298-8457 mlipner@bhhslaffey.com LAWRENCE One Bedroom Renovated Apartment In Prime Lawrence. Efficiency Kitchen, Renovated Bathroom. Sunken LR, Dining Room, Close to All, Transportation, Shopping, Worship. $275k Mark Lipner Associate Broker Berkshire Hathaway Laffey International 516-298-8457 mlipner@bhhslaffey.com

UNIQUE APARTMENT In the old city of Jerusalem, one of a kind! Inside private and quiet courtyard, features living/dining room, kitchen with high quality built in wood cabinets in excellent condition, three bedrooms, high quality built in wood closets, two bathrooms, 135 meters, including two sun balconies, newly built from the foundation up (early 80’s, very few such apartments in the old city), located on Chabad Street. $2.9M (negotiable) Contact Yukie at 1-760 227-0287 (US), +972 50 850-1400 (IL) VILLA IN RAMAT SHLOMO 5.5 bedrooms, 4 bathrooms, fully upgraded, sifria, 4 porches, private parking & 5 fully-furnished rental suites. 11.95 Million Shekel. i.dealhomes18@gmail.com 516-303-4450

HELP WANTED ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT Local school looking to hire a capable administrative assistant. Job responsibilities include data entry, database management, assisting the administrator in his daily tasks. Candidates must be detailoriented, organized, and have the ability to multi-task. Prefer full-time but would consider part-time for the right individual. Proficiency in Microsoft Office required. Enjoyable working environment, personal, sick, vacation days offered, Yom Tovim and certain legal holidays off. Salary commensurate with experience. Please email resume to admin@shoryoshuv.org BOOKKEEPER Excellent growth potential, Frum environment, Excellent salary & benefits. Email resume to: resumetfs1@gmail.com SEEKING ELA TEACHER Teaching position for Gr. 6. Mon.-Thurs., afternoon hours. Far Rockaway/5T area. Great salary, warm, supportive environment. Training in our curriculum is provided. Teachersearch11@gmail.com

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HELP WANTED

DELIVERY PERSON NEEDED to deliver Newspaper every Thursday morning to locations in Brooklyn. Must have Minivan or SUV and availability to work consistently every week! Please e-mail gabe@fivetownsjewishhome.com or call (917) 299-8082

JOIN OUR TEAM! ABA company located in the 5 Towns looking to fill multiple full-time administrative positions Knowledge of Central Reach a plus, but will train the right candidate Great work environment Call 516-670-5374 or Email your resume to: Careers@supportivecareaba.com

DEVELOPMENT ASSISTANT

ACCOUNTANT

5 TOWNS BOYS YESHIVA Seeking Elem Gen Ed Teachers Excellent working environment and pay. Only lic/exp need apply. Email resume to yeshivalooking@gmail.com

IMMEDIATE OPENING ELA teaching position for Gr. 5. Mon.-Thurs., afternoon hours. Far Rockaway/5T area. Competitive salary, warm supportive environment. Teachersearch11@gmail.com

CHESS INSTRUCTORS WANTED Hiring dynamic, dedicated chess teachers. Mondays and Wednesdays 4:30-5:30pm in 5 towns. Earn up to $80/hr, based on experience. Positions open in other locations. Apply at ChessChevra.com

A YESHIVA IN QUEENS is looking for an experienced part/ full time secretary, 2-year-old morah, kindergarten morah, kindergarten morah assistant and Pre-1A English teacher for the 2022-2023 school year. Nice and timely pay. Please email resume to mshelt613@gmail. com or call/text 718-971-9799.

A multi-tasker needed for general office work. The ideal candidate is

With 2+ years experience to assist a

someone who is detail-oriented, responsible, and can take ownership.

nursing home back office company

Looking for someone who is eager to learn, and expand his/her skill set

with financial statement preparation.

while possessing the ability to work independently and as part of a team.

Great benefits & pay. Reach out to

Experience with Excel required. Five Towns location. In-office position

Lakewoodjobs@fcc-corp.com

only, not remote. Please send resume to 5tpart.timecareer@gmail.com

MDS REGIONAL NURSE 5 Towns area Nursing Home management office seeking a

MISC. SHMIRAS HALASHON

Regional/Corporate level MDS Nurse to work in our office.

Text 516-303-3868 with a time slot of

Must be an RN. Regional experience preferred. 2-3 years MDS experience

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OCTOBER 26, 2023 | The Jewish Home

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The Jewish Home | OCTOBER 26, 2023

Your

Money

Your Check is Not in the Mail By Allan Rolnick, CPA

ast week marked the final final final 2022 tax filing deadline for everyone who filed an extension back in April and doesn’t have the good fortune to live in an area affected by certain hurricanes, floods, wildfires, earthquakes, or other natural disasters. If you live in parts of Louisiana affected by seawater intrusion, for example, or certain counties in Massachusetts and Maine that were hit by Hurricane Lee, you’ve still got until February 2024 ,15. You haven’t even begun to procrastinate! Regardless of when you file, it usually means closing the book on that particular year. But sometimes, the IRS decides to audit you and look for more. Usually, the extra tax is just a few thousand dollars. Sometimes, it’s a lot more, which is why the words “IRS audit” strike so much fear into so many hearts. And sometimes it’s a lot more, as software giant Microsoft just disclosed to shareholders. Companies like Microsoft that operate globally can structure operations to report income in all sorts of places. Naturally, they’ll want to report as much as possible in countries with low taxes. Why pay the old 35% corporate tax on income here in the U.S. if they can pay, say, 12.5% in Ireland? That incentive leads to classic tax

dodges like the “double Irish Dutch sandwich,” which sounds like an oddball corned-beef-on-a-stroopwafel fusion you’d order at a trendy Boston deli. In reality, it involves: 1) establishing an Irish holding company to own intellectual property rights to a product or service; 2) registering the holding company in a

greedy. (Remember the old Wall Street adage: bulls make money, bears make money, pigs get slaughtered.) There’s an entire body of law called “transfer pricing,” where lawyers who think regular tax work isn’t boring enough hash out the rules for pricing transactions within and between businesses under common

That incentive leads to classic tax dodges like the “double Irish Dutch sandwich,” which sounds like an oddball corned-beef-on-a-stroopwafel fusion you’d order at a trendy Boston deli.

tax haven like the Bahamas; 3) licensing the IP to a Dutch holding company; 4) selling the product or service to customers in high-tax countries; 6) routing the profits back to a different Irish company; then 7) passing them on to the Bahamas where they’re effectively tax-free. (Before you ask: no, it won’t work for you.) Incredibly, that whole sleight-ofhand is legal, as long as you don’t get too

ownership or control. And that leads us to our story. Last week, the IRS sent Microsoft a series of Notices of Proposed Adjustments, politely requesting $28.9 billion in extra tax from 2004 through 2013. The Service argues that because Microsoft subsidiaries helped pay to develop certain intellectual property, they rightfully owe tax on the related profits. You

don’t need more explanation. It would just give you a migraine. The back tax represents about 14% of Microsoft’s gross revenue for the year. It’s twice as much as they’ve invested in artificial intelligence. But don’t expect them to send a check anytime soon. Microsoft argues that newer tax laws could shave $10 billion from the bill. They’ve promised to appeal the notices with the IRS, which will consume years of bureaucratic gear-grinding. Then, they’ll “contest any unresolved issues through the courts” if necessary, which will eat up more years. My money says that Skynet will be selfaware by the time the whole thing plays out. At that point, it’ll take a Terminator to collect the actual tax. Your taxes aren’t nearly as complicated as Microsoft’s, and your bills aren’t nearly as big. That means you’ll never face down the business end of a deficiency notice asking for more money than the gross national product of Yemen or Cambodia. But that doesn’t mean that paying more doesn’t hurt. You know who to call!

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.

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Life C ach

OCTOBER 26, 2023 | The Jewish Home

Just My Opinion By Rivki D. Rosenwald Esq., LMFT, CLC, SDS

ne thing we know for certain is that we don’t know anything for certain. Can I assume that we are all on the same page about that? I’m guessing, but I can’t be certain! It amazes me at times how strong people can be in their opinions. They’ll even assert that they are so sure because it’s based on facts. But who is disseminating those facts? No one can be sure! So where is all this very committed thinking coming from? Stubbornness? Ridiculousness? Narrowmindedness? More likely, it’s coming from upbringing, values, or education!

So, blame mom, dad, or your teacher! Hey, but then it’s not even your opinion you’re disseminating. It’s theirs! Or, can your sources be the news or social media? If so, perhaps, it’s just their pontifications that you’re spewing back out. Not yours, either. Maybe you only think you have an opinion and what you really have is indoctrination? Or, it could be there is a truth? But everyone thinks they possess it. What happened to trying to see different vantage points? To compromise. To balance. To working it out. To live and let live. It used to be appealing that Baskin Robbins offered 31 different flavors. The idea

was to be flexible, to try different things. To see what suited you best, but not to force the other guy to consume the flavor you like. We cannot force others to see our truth. But, we can respect others rights to have

a different truth. That is as long as theirs doesn’t harm us! We must go back to collaborating and working it out. We must find ways to live and let live. But hey, that’s just my opinion!

Rivki Rosenwald is a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist working with both couples and individuals and is a certified relationship counselor. Rivki is a co-founder and creator of an effective Parent Management of Adolescent Years Program. She can be contacted at 917-7052004 or at rivkirosenwald@gmail.com.

The Jewish Home | OCTOBER 26, 2023

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