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Dear Readers,

was recently at a shiva house, and the person sitting shiva started talking about the war in Israel. There is so much to say, and each person had their thoughts to add. But one person commented about one thing that I have tried to focus on since then. As we were talking about the importance of davening and saying Tehillim, he mentioned that if we took a moment of our time before we started davening to stop and think about one specific soldier or hostage or family in Israel that is suffering, then our tefillos would be so much stronger. Each of us feels so connected to what is going on in Israel. As a matter of fact, last week, five U.S. servicemembers died in a helicopter crash in the Mediterranean Sea. They had been sent to the area because of the war in Israel. When I read the story of them losing their lives, I felt sad for them and their families but I was able to continue with my day. But when I read about one soldier dying in Israel, my heart hurts for the rest of the day. I feel stunned and dazed, the pain a physical ache that accompanies me for the next few hours. As Jews, we truly are one. We feel so connected to one another. When one is hurt, we physically feel their pain. Hearing about the death of one soldier who risked

his life for the Jewish nation becomes a loss of an integral part of ourselves. We need to take those feelings of connection and bring them to our tefillos. We should be davening for our nation as a whole and then spending time thinking of one particular soldier fighting for us in Gaza or one specific family who is suffering an enormous loss and channel those intense feelings into our tefillos and Tehillim. Our prayers shouldn’t be said as indifferent murmurs; they should be uttered as impassioned pleas to the One Above. Perhaps we can each “take on” one soldier or one hostage as our “own” and daven for them as if they are our family. When we daven, we should picture them in our minds, think about what they are going through, and beg for their safety as if they grew up in our own homes. For, truly, we are one; truly, they are our brothers and sisters; truly, our tefillos can shake the heavens and bring them home safely. And together, with each of us begging Hashem for their – and our – salvation, we will merit to join together as one big family in the coming of Moshiach, may he come soon. 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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NOVEMBER 16, 2023 | The Jewish Home

The Jewish Home | NOVEMBER 16, 2023

Contents LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

COMMUNITY Readers’ Poll

Community Happenings

Not an Ordinary Cup of Joe by Nati Burnside

NEWS

Global

National

That’s Odd

Impressions of a Rally Goer

290K United for Israel

ISRAEL Israel News

JEWISH THOUGHT Rabbi Wein on the Parsha

Something More by Rav Moshe Weinberger

Delving into the Daf by Rabbi Avrohom Sebrow

Headlines and Halacha by Rabbi Yair Hoffman

PEOPLE The Wandering Jew

Inspiration Nation

Heroes Against Hamas by Avi Heiligman

128

HEALTH & FITNESS Maximizing Your Vitamin D Intake by Aliza Beer, MS RD

106

FOOD & LEISURE More from Marblespoon by Vera Newman

108

Food for Thought

112

The Aussie Gourmet: Turkey Schwarma Burger

113

LIFESTYLES Dating Dialogue, Moderated by Jennifer Mann, LCSW

Parenting Pearls

102

School of Thought

104

The Profound Act of Showing Up Professionally by Michelle Mozes 114

102

Mind Your Business

116

Your Money

134

Dear Editor, For two weeks, I really tried to catch one of those offers to give a ride to an evacuee, from either the north or the south of our little Israel. The active app had participants responding so quickly, I couldn’t compete. But finally, I registered my availability quickly enough to drive three women to a program geared to evacuees. “Nice,” I thought. It appears to have been a most amazing program, sponsored by the wonderful Ezrat Achim Organization. Following the event, the women entered my car as though drunk with joy, breathing deeply between contagious bouts of laughter. They claimed they’d not smiled for a month. Later, I offered to walk one of them into her building, because she was afraid to go in alone. As I unbuckled my seatbelt, I turned to the two remaining women in the backseat, “I’m leaving the car. If you hear a siren, you must leave the car immediately.” And right there, in front of my eyes, they had a total emotional breakdown. I was in shock, not having realized the delicacy of their emotional state. While crying and shaking, one of them explained, “A missile came right into my home, while I was there!” I didn’t dare leave the car but urged the woman to call for her husband. Realizing I had to change the topic somewhat, I shared that while not at all the same, but I too had lost my home, but to a masterful once-in-a-hundred-year storm. That, baruch Hashem, proved to be a good new area of interest to explore, as I was flooded with inquiries. Arriving home, I discovered a note left

for me, by name, showering me with the most amazing compliments and blessings. It was my turn to cry. Naomi Billauer Israel Dear Fellow Chutznik, What will it take till we realize that we have a Jewish Land where we can live, we can study, where we can work, living openly and proudly as Jews? This is not a call for aliyah. Not everyone has that zechus. No, I’m suggesting something else. Look at what’s happening in the University of North Carolina, California State University Long Beach, Arizona State University, Indiana University, Cornell, Harvard, Columbia… the list goes on; tensions are rising on those college campuses against “Israeli Colonial Occupation,” against Israel’s right to defend itself, against their own university’s Jewish student body. This is reminiscent of pre- war Germany when its universities’ student fraternities and other student groups initiated widespread protests and violence against those who did not support Germany’s anti-Jewish policies. We certainly know how that ended. In the 1980s, the phenomenon of sending our American post-high school girls to Israel for their seminary experience took hold. Simultaneously, we began sending our teenage boys to Israeli yeshivos for a total Torah immersion experience. I believe the time has come to send our young adult children, who are embarking on their college education, to study in Israeli universities. They will be Continued on page 10

Come Along for the Ride by Rivki D. Rosenwald Esq., CLC, SDS 135

HUMOR Centerfold

POLITICAL CROSSFIRE Notable Quotes

118

For America’s Jews, Every Day Must Be October 8 by Bret Stephens

122

Once Again, the World Condemns Israel. But Israel Owes the World Nothing by Ruben Navarrette Jr.

123

Keep Nikki Haley and Ron DeSantis – and Cut the Rest of the GOP Field by Marc A. Thiessen

126

Could This Man Bring Down Putin? by David Ignatius

127

CLASSIFIEDS

129

Does your family have Costco membership?

72 28 %

Yes

NOVEMBER 16, 2023 | The Jewish Home

10 Musical Performance featuring Aryeh Kunstler

Continued from page 10

The Jewish Home | NOVEMBER 16, 2023

educated by world class scholars, while absorbing love of the land and a further connection to our heritage, even if they realistically will go on thereafter with their lives and careers Chutz l’Eretz. Sincerely, Susie Netzer

GET READY

to celebrate

THE FESTIVAL OF LIGHTS CHANUKAH CONCERT AND MENORAH LIGHTING

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 9 7-9PM GREEN ACRES MALL, CENTER COURT (IN FRONT OF PRIMARK AND UNIQLO) SCAN FOR DETAILS

Dear Editor, It has become clear now that the real Hamas attack was supposed to happen on the first night of Pesach. It has been speculated that Iran called it off because they were in the middle of negotiating a $6 billion payment from the U.S. It’s possible that the initial date could have seen greater devastation; we really don’t know. This attests to what Dovid says in Tehillim, (83:4), “They plot craftily against your people...” However, G-d is maneuvering the craftiness as we know so well by Bilaam and Balak. Unbeknownst to the Israelites, two men were trying to wipe away any spiritual remnant of their continuation. And unknown to us, they were not only thwarted but offered us blessings. We put our trust in a G-d Who is working behind the scenes for our salvation. Steven Genack Dear Editor, How ironic that this past Thursday thousands of high school and college students around the nation continued their ongoing protests against Israel. They continued their call for a ceasefire, burned Israel flags and included chants such as “free Palestine,” “from river to the sea” (code words for the elimination of Israel), tearing down posters of hostages from Israel and the United States by Hamas and accused President Biden and America of committing genocide against the Palestinian people These same demonstrators were silent on and immediately after October 7th, when Hamas invaded Israel. No protests against Hamas reign of terror murdering 1,400 people and kidnapping of 240 Israel and American citizens. Perhaps the demonstrators were not aware that November 9th is the 85th an-

niversary of Kristallnacht. On that date in 1938, German Nazis conducted a pogrom. The Nazis persecution included burning and looting of Jewish homes, stores and synagogues. Isn’t it time that Kristallnacht and the Holocaust that killed 6 million Jews be taught in all high school and college history classes? Why not also show the recently released film “Bearing Witness,” which document the recent atrocities committed by Hamas? It was shown last Wednesday at the Museum of Tolerance in Los Angeles. Too many pro-Palestinian protestors have no understanding of past history. This has resulted in their ignorance and anti-Semitism. Sincerely, Larry Penner Great Neck, NY Dear Editor, I write this on the bus back from the rally on Tuesday. It was such an overwhelming wonderful feeling to be part of something so huge and incredible. It was the largest gathering of pro-Israel supporters in the United States! And we were part of it! We were all respectful – to each other, to the officials, to the speakers, to public property. You saw people helping each other, greeting each other, putting on tefillin and davening. You smiled at strangers because you knew that you were all on the same page: the support for Israel and for Jews was paramount. During the rally, we were united for one cause. Kudos to everyone who made the trip (trek) to D.C., which was long and not so easy. Hopefully, this will wake up the politicians in Washington so they see that Israel is so important to so many people in the United States. Hopefully, they will work to bring back the hostages. And of course, as we know, it is all in the Hands of Hashem, who will turn the hearts of the authorities in the right direction and bring us salvation. Am Yisroel chai! Becky Hartstein

Make your voice heard! Be part of TJH’s weekly poll. Email the editor to be included in the weekly poll at Editor@FiveTownsJewishHome.com 2034 Green Acres Mall, Sunrise Highway, Valley Stream, NY 11581

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The Week In News

David Cameron Back in Politics

On Monday, former British Prime Minister David Cameron returned to high office, assuming the foreign secretary position in a major shakeup of the Conservative government that also saw the firing of divisive Home Secretary Suella Braverman. Prime Minister Rishi Sunak appointed Cameron, who led the U.K. government between 2010 and 2016 and triggered the country’s exit from the European Union, as part of a Cabinet reshuffling in which he also sacked Braverman and named James Cleverly, who had been foreign secretary, to replace her. Braverman, a law-and-order hardliner, drew anger for accusing police of being too lenient with pro-Palestinian protesters. Sunak made additional changes to the government throughout the day, naming Victoria Atkins as the new health secretary and moving her predecessor, Steve Barclay, to the environment portfolio. Sunak is attempting to reset his faltering government. The Conservatives have been in power for 13 years, but opinion polls for months have put them 15 to 20 points behind the opposition Labour Party amid a stagnating economy, persistently high inflation, an overstretched health care system and a wave of public sector strikes. Cameron’s appointment is a surprise to many. It’s rare for a non-lawmaker to take a senior government post, and it has been decades since a former prime minister held a Cabinet job. Cameron had been appointed to Parliament’s unelected upper chamber, the House of Lords. The last foreign secretary to serve in the Lords, rather than the elected House of Commons, was Peter

Carrington, who was part of Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher’s government in the 1980s. Cameron, 57, said Britain was “facing a daunting set of international challenges, including the war in Ukraine and the crisis in the Middle East.” “While I have been out of front-line politics for the last seven years, I hope that my experience — as Conservative leader for 11 years and prime minister for six — will assist me in helping the prime minister to meet these vital challenges,” he said in a statement. It’s uncertain what Cameron’s appointment will reveal. As prime minister, he backed NATO-led military intervention in Libya in 2011 that toppled Moammar Gadhafi and deepened that country’s chaos. In 2013, he tried and failed to gain Parliament’s backing for U.K. airstrikes against President Bashar al-Assad’s forces in Syria. He also announced a shortlived “golden era” in U.K.-China relations shortly before that relationship soured. But he also authored Brexit, and he called a 2016 EU membership referendum, confident the country would vote to stay in the bloc. He resigned the day after voters opted to leave.

Australia-Tuvalu Pact

Australia and Tuvalu have cemented a pact in an effort to fight against several issues threatening the small island country. The agreement, which was signed by Anthony Albanese, the prime minister of Australia, on Friday, is concerned with poor climate conditions in Tuvalu, as well as the threat of Chinese influence on the country. “The Australia-Tuvalu Falepili union will be regarded as a significant day in which Australia acknowledged that we are part of the Pacific family,” Albanese said during a news conference in the Cook Islands. Australia has agreed to host each Tuvaluan resident in the event that the 11,200 people in Tuvalu can no longer live in the country due to climate condi-

NOVEMBER 16, 2023 | The Jewish Home

The Jewish Home | NOVEMBER 16, 2023

tions, according to reports by the Sydney Morning Herald. Although the agreement’s text has yet to be publicized, a press release by the government did not refer to any climate refugee arrangement. Included in the agreement is Australian security assistance to Tuvalu if needed, Albanese said, as well as an anti-China measure which makes it that both countries must inform one another before going into a defense or security agreement with another nation. Additionally, 280 residents of Tuvalu will receive a special visa each year, and the island country will be given enough funds so that it may increase the size of its capital Funafuti by about 6% by creating new land. There are only thirteen nations that have official ties with Taiwan, and Tuvalu is one of them. The island country, which is in the continent of Oceania, is made up of nine islands and is geographically located between Australia and Hawaii. For quite some time now, Tuvalu has been threatened by rising sea levels, increasing temperatures, droughts, and tropical cyclones, and many experts anticipate that the country will be uninhabitable in the next century, prompting concern from the international community.

Iceland Volcano Evacuations

After a series of 800 earthquakes hit southwest Iceland, the government declared a state of emergency and told those living in Grindavik to evacuate in fear of potential volcanic activity. The earthquakes rocked the North American country from midnight to 2 P.M. on Friday. In the aftermath of these quakes, there remains a possibility that magma may be on its way up to the Grindavik surface, the Civil Protection Agency of Iceland said. “Earthquakes may become bigger than those that have already occurred, and this sequence of events could lead to an eruption. However, there are still no signs that the magma is nearing the surface. Its progress is being closely monitored,” the agency said.

While an evacuation is necessary, the agency made it clear that it is not an immediate emergency and that residents have “plenty of time to prepare, secure things and drive out of town calmy.” “It is clear that we are dealing with events that we Icelanders have not experienced before, at least not since the eruption in Vestmannaeyjar. We faced that together, we will face this together, and we will not lose heart,” added the Civil Protection Agency. The U.S. Embassy in Iceland also warned of a potential eruption. “If an eruption occurs, follow the instructions of Icelandic authorities. Volcanic hazards may include lava, toxic gases, and heavy smoke from fires ignited by lava,” the embassy stated. Due to these considerations, the Blue Lagoon, a popular lake and geothermal spa in Iceland, has been temporarily shut down. Iceland is located atop a constantly splitting tectonic plate boundary, which is responsible for pushing North America and Eurasia apart. With thirty-two active volcanoes, Iceland has been seeing eruptions every twelve months since 2021, with the last one having taken place south of the capital Reykjavik in July.

Spaniards Protest

Sánchez will have to manage. Fragmented, and fragile, coalitions are becoming more common in Spain. The issue of independence for Catalonia in northeast Spain, which seemed to have died down since an illegal referendum shook the country to its core in 2017, has reemerged as the dangerous fault line running through Spanish politics and society. The protests, which included myriad signs appealing to the European Union for help, underlined the irony of Spain having, in Sánchez, a progressive, pro-unity favorite in Brussels whose government is built on the support of separatists. Sánchez, 51, had called an early election after his party was pummeled in local elections in May. He gambled that he would have a better chance of winning earlier, rather than waiting and continuing to bleed electoral support. And while Feijóo’s party came out ahead of Sánchez and his Socialist party in that July national election, no single party received enough support to govern alone, requiring the formation of a coalition with enough parliamentary votes to govern. Sánchez could prevail by stitching Catalan separatists to his progressive and far-left coalition. As early as this week, parliament is expected to vote to give Sánchez a new term in office. While the details of the deal that cleared the way for him were not clear, it appears to allow self-exiled separatist leaders to return to Spain and possibly even run for office again. (© The New York Times)

Arab Leaders Hundreds of thousands of incensed Summit Spaniards responded to the call of conservative parties Sunday and packed squares across the country to protest a deal that Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez, a Socialist, reached with secessionists to grant them amnesties in exchange for the political support required for him to retain power. “The office of prime minister of Spain can’t be an object to be bought and sold,” Alberto Núñez Feijóo, the leader of the conservative Popular Party, said at a rally in Madrid as tens of thousands of supporters waved Spanish flags and held signs that read, “No to Amnesty,” and “Sánchez Traitor.” While the nationwide protests amounted to a last-ditch — and all but doomed — effort to stop Sánchez from again becoming prime minister, they reflect the new and hazardous political landscape that

Arab leaders, including the president of Iran, met together in Riyadh, the capital of Saudi Arabia, on Saturday, November 11, to discuss Israel’s response in Gaza to the October 7th terrorist attacks orchestrated by Hamas. The group unanimously spoke out against the Jewish state, alleging that it is guilty of war crimes and acts of terrorism against the people of Gaza. Although an earlier version of the resolution called on every Arab country to

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pause all ties with Israel, as well as to stop providing oil to the Jewish state, prevent the U.S. from giving over equipment to Israel at Arab military bases, and stop Israeli flights from flying in Arab airspace, among other measures, such a resolution did not pass as it was blocked by Jordan, Egypt, Bahrain, Mauritania, Sudan, Saudi Arabia, Djibouti, the United Arab Emirates, and Morocco. Instead, the resolution denied that Israel’s response has been out of self-defense and called on the United Nations Security Council to implement “a decisive and binding resolution” to stop Israeli “aggression.” Furthermore, the declaration rejected the idea of keeping Gaza apart from the West Bank and called for an end to selling weapons to Israel. At the summit, Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman said his country “holds the occupation (Israel) authorities responsible for the crimes committed against the Palestinian people.” “We are certain that the only way to guarantee security, peace, and stability in the region is to end the occupation, siege, and the settlements,” he added. Ebrahim Raisi, the president of Iran, went further, asserting that the Arab nations of the world should label the IDF a “terrorist organization” and that the only

way out of the current issue is to give the Palestinians a state from the “river to the sea,” thus taking all the land of Israel away from the Jews and giving it to Arabs. The Islamic Jihad, a Palestinian terrorist organization, said it did not “expect anything” constructive to happen as a result of the summit. “We are not placing our hopes on such meetings, for we have seen their results over many years,” the terror group’s deputy secretary general, Mohammed al-Hindi, said at a Beirut press conference. “The fact that this conference will be held after 35 days (of war) is an indication of its outcomes.”

Riots In Bangladesh Bangladeshi police shut down 150 factories located in the towns of Ashulia and Gazipur “indefinitely,” after charging over 11,000 “unidentified people” for allegedly participating in violent protests on Thursday, November 9. On that day, 15,000 workers fought with police, and in the process, stole from and damaged many factories, including the Tusuka plant. The authorities responded by

launching tear gas and rubber bullets at about 10,000 Ashulia workers after stones and bricks were hurled at police.

“Police have filed cases against 11,000 unidentified people over the attack on Tusuka garment factory,” said police inspector Mosharraf Hossain. The police in Bangladesh have on many occasions presented charges against thousands of nameless people. Some human rights organizations have claimed that the police do this as a means of punishing protesters who weren’t even involved in the violence. Over 85% of Bangladesh’s $55 billion in exports a year comes from the south Asian country’s 3,500 garment factories, from which some of the world’s most popular clothing brands, such as Levi’s, Zara, and H&M, receive their items. On Tuesday, November 7, a team appointed by the government increased

monthly pay from around 8,300 taka ($75) to 12,500 taka ($114) for those who work in garment factories. But the pay raise is still not enough for workers to afford the increasing prices of healthcare, food, rent, and tuition, thus prompting demands for a 23,000 taka (approx. $209) minimum wage. Last month, at least three workers were killed and over seventy factories were stolen from and damaged due to protests. These protests have challenged the authority of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, who has been in power since 2009 and is facing reelection this coming January. Hasina has been adamantly against giving in to the demands of the workers. “If they take to the streets to protest at someone’s instigation, they will lose their job, lose their work and will have to return to their village,” she said on Thursday. “If these factories are closed, if production is disrupted, exports are disrupted, where will their jobs be? They have to understand that.” The United States criticized the police response against protesters and urged the Bangladeshi government to implement a minimum wage that “addresses the growing economic pressures faced by workers and their families.”

NOVEMBER 16, 2023 | The Jewish Home

The Jewish Home | NOVEMBER 16, 2023

NOVEMBER 16, 2023 | The Jewish Home

The Jewish Home | NOVEMBER 16, 2023

180K March in France Against Antisemitism

More than 100,000 demonstrators in Paris and cities across France took to the streets on Sunday to show their solidarity with the country’s Jews and to deplore antisemitic acts that have proliferated across the nation since Hamas’ attack on Israel on October 7. The marches were called by the leaders of both houses of the French parliament, the Senate and the National Assembly, and unfolded under gray skies mostly without incident, with 3,000 police officers in Paris patrolling the route. The marches in France came a day after a huge pro-Palestinian protest in London that police said involved

about 300,000 people. Tensions have been rising in France and particularly in Paris, home to large Jewish and Muslim communities, after Hamas’ attack and during Israel’s subsequent military campaign in the Gaza Strip. In the past month, more than 1,240 antisemitic acts have been reported in France. Police had made 539 arrests as of November 10. President Emmanuel Macron condemned “the unbearable resurgence of unbridled antisemitism” in France in an open letter published in Le Parisien newspaper Saturday and said there would be “no tolerance for the intolerable.” French presidents typically do not participate in such marches, and Macron said that while he would not be present, he would be there “in my heart and in my thoughts.” Senate President Gérard Larcher and National Assembly leader Yaël Braun-Pivet said the march was not intended to be a political statement about the war, over which political parties in France have clashed in recent weeks. Instead, Braun-Pivet, who has been the target of antisemitic threats and is under police protection, said the march was an appeal for French citizens to

show one another and the world “what France is today.” The fact so many people participated in a march organized only six days ago — according to the Interior Ministry, more than 182,000 people marched across France, including 105,000 in Paris — showed that the French were “capable of assembling rapidly, reuniting around our values, our history, and what I’m sure will be our future,” she said. Several former presidents joined the march in Paris, including François Hollande and Nicolas Sarkozy, as well as five former French prime ministers. Cultural figures attending included actresses Natalie Portman and Charlotte Gainsbourg. (© The New York Times)

Nepal Bans TikTok The Nepali government announced in a cabinet meeting this week that TikTok would be banned to the country’s 2.2 million users to protect “social harmony.” The move comes just days after authorities issued a directive tightening content regulation on all social media sites.

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Rekha Sharma, the country’s minister for communications and information technology, said at the cabinet meeting that TikTok was disrupting “our social harmony, family structure and family relations.”

The Nepali government said that they had reached out to TikTok multiple times but the company declined to address their concerns about the content. Narayan Kaji Shrestha, the home minister, suggested a ban on the entire app since scrubbing offending videos individually would be too hard. The ban on TikTok goes into effect immediately. Still, it is unclear when users will lose access to the platform. Some internet service providers have already cut access to the app, while others will do it soon, the chairman of the Nepal Telecommunications Authority said.

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Last week, the government released a directive for social media platforms outlining forbidden content, which includes hate speech, the promotion of inappropriateness and drugs, fake news, terrorism-related messages, and private photos posted without consent. All social media companies are also mandated to open liaison offices in Nepal so that they can better address public concerns and remove offending content. Tech giants like Facebook, X, and Instagram, which now have three months to set up offices or appoint representatives in Nepal, are also required to register with the Ministry of Information and Communication Technology—or face a shutdown like TikTok. The Chinese-owned app, which surged in global popularity during the pandemic, has faced regulatory hurdles across the world among governments wary of China’s influence. It has been banned in India since 2020 after an escalation in a longstanding territorial dispute with China. Meanwhile, the U.S., Australia, and several European countries banned the app on government-issued mobile phones among civil servants, citing national security concerns.

Burkina Faso Massacre

Around 100 civilians were killed during a massacre on a village in the West African country of Burkina Faso, the European Union’s diplomatic service said this week. “Nearly a hundred civilians, including women and children, are reported to have been killed in a massacre in the village of Zaongo, in the north-central region of Burkina Faso,” the EU External Action (EEAS) said. The attack was condemned by the U.S. government which, along with the EU called on the transitional authorities to “shed light on the circumstances” behind the massacre to “determine who is responsible.”

Burkina Faso is currently under military rule after a junta staged a successful coup d’état in July 2022. Since the military takeover, the junta has prioritized security but has struggled to rein in Islamist groups whose attacks have resulted in multiple civilian casualties this year. A few months ago, in April, terrorists killed at least 44 people in separate attacks on villages in northern Burkina Faso. Later that month, 136 others, including babies, were killed in a similar onslaught on a village in the same region by armed men in military uniform. Burkina Faso has been the epicenter of violence that has spread across the vast Sahel region by Islamist groups linked to al Qaeda and the Islamic State. According to Amnesty International, large swaths of the impoverished nation are “under siege by armed groups” who “commit war crimes and human rights abuses.” In its statement condemning the latest attack, the EU reaffirmed “its full solidarity with the people of Burkina Faso,” describing them as “first victims of the continuing deterioration of the security situation in the country.”

Britain’s Prisons Almost All Full

The prison system in England and Wales is dangerously close to capacity, with 98% of available spaces full, according to data released by Britain’s Ministry of Justice on Friday that experts said underscored an ongoing crisis within the criminal justice system. The reality of overcrowded prisons and an accompanying rise in inmate violence and self-harm poses a stark challenge to the Conservative government as it plans to extend sentencing for the most serious crimes. The Ministry of Justice said the prison population was 87,704, meaning there are around 1,200 places left before the system reaches its maximum “operational capacity.”

NOVEMBER 16, 2023 | The Jewish Home

experienced employees. “I think this is a sign of a system that is broken,” said Nick Davies, program director at the Institute for Government, an independent British think tank. Alex Chalk, Britain’s justice secretary, last month admitted the “custodial estate is under pressure” and announced plans to temporarily allow the early release of some prisoners. He also said the government was holding “exploratory discussions” to rent prison space abroad. The government expects 8,200 new prison places will be operational by May 2025. (© The New York Times)

The Jewish Home | NOVEMBER 16, 2023

4-Hour Ceasefires

Britain already has the highest per capita incarceration rate in western Europe, and many prisons house far more people than they were built for. Wandsworth prison in London, for example, from which a prisoner facing terrorism charges briefly escaped in September, has a normal capacity of 961, but was housing 1,584 men in May. An independent monitoring report said it was “seriously overcrowded with most men sharing cells designed for single occupancy.”

The prison population in England and Wales has risen rapidly since the 1990s as successive prime ministers pledged to be “tough on crime,” introducing longer sentences and policies to ensure convicted criminals serve a greater proportion of their sentences. Although the overall number of prisoners was down slightly from last week, it is almost 5,000 higher than a year ago and nearly double the level it was 30 years ago.

While that partly reflects population growth, the number of incarcerated people has outpaced that rise, according to official research published by Parliament. In 1900, there were 86 prisoners per 100,000 people, compared with 159 per 100,000 last year. Experts say that has created unsafe conditions. Suicides and incidents of serious violence have risen, and staff members are under serious strain, after funding cuts in the 2010s caused an exodus of

Israel has begun taking four-hour breaks each day from its military response in northern Gaza, the White House announced on Thursday, November 9. These measures will be implemented in order to give Gazans more opportunities to flee to the south of the Strip. Every day, a different area in Gaza will be subject to a “tactical localized [military] pause,” a senior Israeli official said. Residents of that area will be notified of the pause several hours before the break. U.S. President Joe Biden said that he had been repeatedly asking Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to implement such measures. “I’ve been asking for a pause for a lot more than three days,” Biden said. “I’ve asked for even a longer pause for some of them.” “It’s taken a little longer than I hoped,” Biden said, voicing some dissatisfaction with regard to how long it took Netanyahu to agree to Biden’s pause proposal. It took “an awful lot of engagement by the administration to try to make sure that humanitarian assistance could get in and people could get out safely,” asserted National Security Council spokesman John Kirby. On the X social media platform,

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The Jewish Home | NOVEMBER 16, 2023

Biden discussed the military pauses, the introduction of a second exit through which Gazans may safely leave the terrorist-controlled area, as well as his administration’s commitment to providing humanitarian aid to the Palestinians. He specifically mentioned how a large amount of aid has been sent from the U.S. to the Gaza Strip in the past month. “We have been urging the Israelis to minimize civilian casualties and to do everything that they can to reduce those numbers,” Kirby said, noting how these pauses will give Gazans “breathing space for a few hours.”

Hamas Hiding Under Hospital

including children, have died in what the hospital’s director has called “catastrophic” conditions. “There is no more water, food, milk for children and babies… the situation in the hospital is catastrophic,” the director of the medical center, Dr. Muhammad Abu Salmiya, told CNN. But Israel has insisted that patients can be evacuated from the hospital. “There’s no reason why we just can’t take the patients out of there, instead of letting Hamas use it as a command center for terrorism, for the rockets that they fire against Israel, for the terror tunnels that they use to kill Israeli civilians,” Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said in an interview with CNN’s Dana Bash on State of the Union. Netanyahu added that Israel is “treading carefully when it comes to hospitals. But we’re also not going to give immunity to the terrorists.”

Engaged Soldier Dies in Combat A U.S. official has confirmed that Hamas has a command center located under Al-Shifa hospital, the largest hospital in Gaza. The terrorist organization is using the hospital’s fuel for its own nefarious reasons. “You can see even from open-source reporting that Hamas does use hospitals, along with a lot of other civilian facilities, for command-and-control, for storing weapons, for housing its fighters,” National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan said on CNN’s State of the Union. “Without getting into this specific hospital or that specific claim, this is Hamas’ track record, both historically and in this conflict.” Israel is attempting to target strikes specifically on enemy targets in Gaza, and says it is justified in taking military action around the hospital, despite criticism from the UN and other international organizations. The Israeli government announced it has created evacuation corridors and called for the removal of civilians, in addition to providing fuel for Gaza citizens. Hamas and hospital officials have denied the accusation that the hospital is being used as a command center. The news that U.S. intelligence assessments appear to back Israel’s claims comes as global attention is focused on the fighting around the hospital and reports suggest several patients,

Master Sgt. (res.) Eliahou Benjamin Elmakayes, 29, a soldier in the Combat Engineering Corp’s 8219th Battalion, was killed during fighting in the central Gaza Strip on November 8. Elmakayes moved to Israel from France six years ago to join the IDF. He was set to marry his fiancée, Yoana Jordo, on November 5, but the wedding was put off when he was called up. He was killed three days after what was supposed to be the start of his new life with Yoana. The lone soldier’s parents, who had flown in from France for the wedding, instead buried him at Mount Herzl National Cemetery in Jerusalem just a few days after he was slated to get married. David Dorfman, a close friend, told Ynet that he was “a guy with a heart of gold. Always smiling, always taking care of others. This is a tough loss,” he said, noting that the pair met together in the army. “He made aliyah specifically for

NOVEMBER 16, 2023 | The Jewish Home

The Jewish Home | NOVEMBER 16, 2023

this, he wanted to serve in combat.” Raphael Jordo, Yoana’s brother, lamented that “instead of going to the chuppah, we will go to the cemetery.” “He was Zionistic, a true patriot, who loved his homeland, unusually kind-hearted, always helping others, a man of kindness, smiling. Benjamin wasn’t afraid of anything — all of his life was just endless generosity.” Jordo said that his almost brother-inlaw just wanted to get married and build a family. “He loved children. We’re in total shock. My parents came to Israel for a wedding, but instead of that we, the love of his life, his extended and close family will have to bury him, with pain and deep grief.”

Syrian UAV Damages Eilat School An unmanned aerial drone launched from an unspecified party in Syria hit the Tze’elim Elementary School in Eilat on Thursday, November 9, causing damage to the building. No one was killed or wounded in the attack, but five people were treated for acute anxiety and anoth-

er was treated for smoke inhalation. The IDF has stated that it retaliated against the responsible party but did not mention it by name.

“The Syrian regime is fully responsible for all terror activity that is carried out from Syrian territory. The IDF will respond severely to any attempt to attack the territory of the State of Israel,” the Israeli army said. At the time of the attack, around forty students were in the school basement, according to local council officials. Reports suggest that the drone came from southern Syria and flew through Jordan airspace before hitting Eilat. Seven Hezbollah terrorists were killed, the terrorist group announced. It did not provide any more information aside from that its fighters were “martyred on the road to Jerusalem.” According to an anonymous Hezbollah official

and a security official from the Lebanese government, the aforementioned seven Hezbollah members died in Syria on Friday, the day after the drone attack. The Israeli airstrike reportedly hit Homs, a province in Syria, early that morning. On the same day as the UAV attack, another missile heading towards Eilat was intercepted by Israel’s Arrow 3 air defense system before it could reach Israeli airspace, marking the first time the system has succeeded in intercepting a missile, the IDF and Defense Ministry noted. No one was killed or injured, and nothing was damaged in this particular attack. The Houthi militia group based in Yemen claimed the attack, saying they fired a “batch of ballistic missiles” at “various sensitive targets” in southern Israel. Over the past few weeks, the Houthis have launched several rockets at Eilat, but each one failed. The Iran-backed terror group claims that it’s part of the “axis of resistance” against the State of Israel. Yahya Saree, a spokesman for the group, said the Houthis will “continue to carry out more qualitative military operations in support of the Palestinian people… until the brutal Israeli aggression against our brothers in Gaza stops.”

Cpl. Noa Marciano, Hy”d

captive by a terror group.” On Monday evening, the military said it sent representatives to the Marciano family home to inform them of the video. “Our hearts go out to the Marciano family, whose daughter, Noa, was brutally kidnapped by the Hamas terror organization,” it said in a statement. The IDF said that “Hamas continues to use psychological terror and behaves inhumanely, through videos and photos of hostages, as it has done in the past.” The military reiterated that it is “using all means, both intelligence and operational, to bring the hostages home.” Channel 12 news reported that the IDF said it made its declaration about Marciano’s death based on intelligence information, and not based on the Hamas video. Noa’s mother, Adi Marciano, traveled around the world to lobby for her release along with family members of the other captives being held in Gaza. Last month, in an interview with Ynet, Adi said she wanted Noa to know “that I miss her and want her to come home. My instincts tell me that she is still alive. She’s probably watching over the little kids.” She’s worried, she said. “Does she have her glasses? Are they hurting her?” At least 240 others are being held by Hamas in Gaza after being kidnapped during the October 7th slaughter. Hamas has been holding the bodies of fallen IDF soldiers Oron Shaul and Hadar Goldin since 2014, as well as two Israeli civilians, Avera Mengistu and Hisham alSayed, who are both thought to be alive.

Photographers Present During Hamas Attack On October 7, Cpl. Noa Marcia, 19, was serving on the Nahal Oz IDF base in the Combat Intelligence Collection Corps 414 Unit when it was overrun by Hamas terrorists. Noa was captured during the attack and was taken to Gaza. Prior to the attack, Noa had lived with her family in Modiin; she was the oldest of three siblings. Noa’s family – and all of Israel – had held out hope that she was still alive. On Monday evening, Hamas published a propaganda video of Marciano, showing her speaking to the camera four days after being taken hostage, identifying herself and reciting the names of her parents and her hometown. The video then cut to showing her dead body. The IDF said Tuesday that it now recognizes Marciano as a “fallen soldier held

Honest Reporting, a pro-Israel media watchdog organization, reported last week that photographers hired by CNN, The New York Times, Reuters, and the Associated Press photographed Hamas’ October 7th terrorist attacks in southern Israel as they were occurring, implying that these people had prior knowledge of the attacks but did not warn Israel or anyone about it. A day after the report was published,

NOVEMBER 16, 2023 | The Jewish Home

the Times said, adding that based on a review of his work, it is clear “that he was doing what photojournalists always do during major news events, documenting the tragedy as it unfolded.” According to Honest Reporting, Eslaiah went into southern Israel and photographed the Israeli army’s burning tanks. He also took pictures of the terrorists invading Kfar Aza, a kibbutz where dozens were murdered. Now-deleted pictures showed Eslaiah standing in front of the tank without wearing anything to identify himself as part of the press. On January 9, 2020, Eslaiah uploaded a selfie of himself being kissed by Yahya Sinwar, a Hamas leader, to Twitter (now known as X). Mahmud and Ali are said to have taken photos of Hamas terrorists kidnapping and dragging Israelis into Gaza. Israel’s Channel 12 asserted on Thursday that the photographers in question “were not there at 6:30 in the morning” and were not present for the “first wave after the breach,” but rather for “the second wave and a little after that, at around 8 in the morning.” The television channel did not say where it got this information from.

The Jewish Home | NOVEMBER 16, 2023

Tim Scott Drops Out

Israel asked the accused media companies to explain how the photographers they hired were able to take pictures just as the tragedy was unfolding; why were these people in that exact place at that exact time? Four photographers were named: Hassan Eslaiah, Yousef Masoud, Ali Mahmud, and Hatem Ali. Reuters, The New York Times, and the AP said they did not know about the assault before it happened and were just

trying to cover the news story as any media company would. CNN and the AP said that they were suspending Eslaiah, one of the accused photojournalists. The National Information System, which is part of the Prime Minister’s Office, said on Thursday, November 9, that it “takes very seriously the phenomenon of journalists working with international media joining [with attackers] to cover the brutal massacres by Hamas terrorists on Saturday 10/7/2023 in the communi-

ties surrounding Gaza.” “Journalists found to have known about the massacre – and still chose to stand as idle bystanders while children were slaughtered – are no different than terrorists and should be treated as such,” Minister Benny Gantz said on social media platform X. The New York Times defended Masoud, asserting that “there is no evidence for Honest Reporting’s insinuations.” The allegations are “untrue and outrageous,”

Another one bites the dust. This week, Tim Scott, GOP senator from South Carolina who had eyed the Republican presidential nomination, dropped out of the race. His campaign had failed to take off and resound with voters. “I love America more today than I did on 22 May,” Scott told Fox News Channel’s Sunday Night in America with Trey Gowdy, citing the date he launched his candidacy. “But when I go back to Iowa, it will not be as a presidential candidate. I am suspending my campaign. I think the voters who are the most remarkable people on the planet have been really clear that

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The Jewish Home | NOVEMBER 16, 2023

they’re telling me, ‘Not now, Tim’.” Scott’s decision to end his campaign came as a surprise to his staffers, who only found out after watching his interview on TV. Scott entered the race with a message of hope and optimism and attracted big-money donors early on. But his campaign lagged behind that of his Republican rivals, and all of the GOP’s 2024 candidates have struggled to overcome Donald Trump’s polling lead. The media had made the discussion of Scott’s girlfriend a key issue in the campaign. “It’s like a different form of discrimination or bias,” Scott said. “You can’t say I’m Black, because that would be terrible, so find something else that you can attack.” Last Wednesday, Scott introduced Mindy Noce on stage after the GOP debate. Larry Ellison, cofounder of Oracle Corporation, had been a tremendous support for Scott in his campaign, pouring $35 million into the senator’s super PAC, Opportunity Matters Fund. Scott had sought to make history as the first African-American GOP presidential candidate and described on the campaign trail his grandfather’s job as a

sharecropper in the Deep South and his own poor upbringing before becoming the GOP’s only Black senator. “I know America is a land of opportunity, not a land of oppression. I know it because I’ve lived it,” he said in an early campaign video. For now, the top GOP contenders for the nation’s highest position include Donald Trump, Ron DeSantis, Nikki Haley, Vivek Ramaswamy, and Chris Christie.

Drop in Life Expectancy for Men The gap in life expectancy between men and women in the United States grew to its widest in nearly 30 years, driven mainly by more men dying of Covid and drug overdoses, according to a new study in The Journal of the American Medical Association. In 2021, women had a life expectancy of 79.3 years, compared with 73.5 years for men, the study found. “It was unsettling to see,” said Dr. Brandon Yan, a resident physician at the University of California, San Francisco, and lead author of the study, which an-

alyzed death data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. At the turn of the 20th century, women had a life expectancy just two years higher than men, Yan said. But over the next 75 years, that gap began to widen, largely because more men smoked and developed cardiovascular disease or lung cancer. As smoking rates declined, excess deaths reduced among men, in particular. But in 2010, that gender gap began to widen yet again, this time driven by opioid overdose death rates, which are more than twice as high for men. That year, the life expectancy for men was 76.3 years, while for women it was 78.1. Men had a greater risk of developing diabetes and heart disease, and also faced higher rates of homicide and suicide. More than 1.1 million people in the United States have died of Covid, a staggering death toll that has caused precipitous declines in life expectancy. Between 2019 and 2021, the life expectancy in the United States dropped from around 79 to 76 years. But men have died of Covid at a higher rate than women. The reasons for this are complicated. Biological factors, such as differences in inflammation and immune responses, likely played a significant role. But social and behavioral differences mattered, too. Men are more likely to work in industries with higher rates of Covid exposure and fatalities, including transportation, agriculture and construction, or to experience incarceration or homelessness. Women are also more likely to be vaccinated. From 2019 to 2021, Covid was the leading contributor to the widening gap in life expectancy between men and women, contributing nearly 40% of the difference in years lost. (© The New York Times)

5 U.S. Soldiers Killed in Crash

Search and rescue efforts were made and went into Saturday before being called off, according to the officials. Department of Defense officials on Monday identified the servicemembers as Chief Warrant Officer 3 Stephen R. Dwyer, 38 of Clarksville, Tennessee; Chief Warrant Officer 2 Shane M. Barnes, 34, of Sacramento, California; Staff Sgt. Tanner W. Grone, 26, of Gorham, New Hampshire; Sgt. Andrew P. Southard, 27, of Apache Junction, Arizona; and Sgt. Cade M. Wolfe, 24, of Mankato, Minnesota. “We mourn the loss of these five incredible soldiers, each of them a national treasure,” Lt. Gen. Jonathan P. Braga said in a statement. “They hail from rare patriotic families with deep military service ties that span multiple generations and formations.” The five men were members of an elite unit, the 160th Special Operations Aviation Regiment (Airborne), known as the Night Stalkers, based in Ft. Campbell, Kentucky. They’re the Army’s best helicopter pilots and usually transport Delta Force or Seal Team Six into missions. The craft that crashed was an MH-60 helicopter, the officials said. The aircraft was conducting a “routine air refueling mission” when the “mishap” occurred, according to European Command’s statement on Sunday. The helicopter crashed near Cyprus. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin said that “while we continue to gather more information about this deadly crash, it is another stark reminder that the brave men and women who defend our great nation put their lives on the line each and every day to keep our country safe. They represent the best of America. We will remember their service and their sacrifice.” “My prayers are with the patriots we have lost today and their families, loved ones, and teammates,” Austin added. President Joe Biden publicly mourned the deaths, saying in a statement that military members “put their lives on the line for our country every day. They willingly take risks to keep the American people safe and secure. And their daily bravery and selflessness is an enduring testament to what is best in our nation.”

Manchin Won’t On Friday, five American service- Run For Reelection members were killed in a crash after their helicopter had a “mishap” during a training exercise and crashed into the eastern Mediterranean Sea. Two officials confirmed that the five were Army special operations soldiers.

West Virginia Senator Joe Manchin announced last week that he will not be running for reelection in 2024. “After months of deliberation and long conversation with my family, I believe, in my heart of hearts, that I have

NOVEMBER 16, 2023 | The Jewish Home

The Jewish Home | NOVEMBER 16, 2023

accomplished what I set out to do for West Virginia,” Manchin wrote in his announcement on social media. “I have made one of the toughest decisions of my life and decided that I will not be running for reelection to United States Senate.”

The Democrats hold 51 of the 100 seats in the Senate (two of the seats belong to independents who tend to side with the left), while there are 49 Senate Republicans. Now that Manchin, a moderate Democrat, will not be running for reelection, the Republicans hope to flip his seat. Although Manchin is leaving the Senate, he has made it clear that he is not moving away from politics. “What I will be doing is traveling the country and speaking out, to see if there is an interest in creating a movement to

mobilize the middle and bring Americans together,” the senator said. Although in recent years Manchin has, in ways, strayed from the Democrat Party, has criticized President Joe Biden on several issues, and set obstacles in the way of the Biden administration’s plans, the president wished him well and noted that they had both “worked together to get things done for hardworking families.” “For more than forty years – as a state legislator, a [West Virginia] Secretary of State, a Governor, and a Senator – Joe Manchin has dedicated himself to serving the people of his beloved West Virginia,” Biden said, referring to Manchin’s vote in favor of confirming Ketanji Brown Jackson to the Supreme Court and the senator’s help in passing Biden’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law and Inflation Reduction Act. In July, Manchin said he wouldn’t rule out the prospect of running for president, and there has since been speculation that he will run as a third-party candidate. “I’ve never been in any race I’ve ever spoiled. I’ve been in races to win,” Manchin said at the time. “And if I get in a race, I’m going to win.”

Suspicious Items Sent To Election Offices

crazy people out there who will go to any extreme to disrupt” elections. “It’s my personal belief that this is just probably a forerunner into what we can be prepared for in 2024,” he added.

Cut the Salt

A spokesperson for the Justice Department said on Thursday that the FBI and the U.S. Postal Inspection Service have launched an investigation pertaining to suspicious mail sent to election officials in California, Texas, Washington State, Nevada, Georgia, and Oregon. Since each piece of mail arrived at around the same time, investigators suspect that the cases are connected. The FBI announced that it “responded to multiple incidents involving suspicious letters sent to ballot counting centers in several states” and that “the public can be assured that law enforcement will continue to keep the public’s safety as its top priority.” The federal agency did not provide further information, but Georgia officials said that a letter that was addressed to Fulton County may have fentanyl contained within. “We’re working with our state and federal partners to determine if any additional Georgia officials are being targeted,” Georgia Secretary of State Brad Raffensperger said. “Domestic terrorists will not trample on our right to free and fair elections.” On Thursday, Raffensperger spoke of how his son passed away five and a half years ago after overdosing on fentanyl and stressed how the drug is dangerous and deadly, making the situation at election offices very serious. On Wednesday, an envelope addressed to election officials arrived in King County, Washington State, and also contained fentanyl, according to Julie Wise, the county’s elections director. The letter contained within was not read by her staff, Wise said, but the authorities were called and 150 people were evacuated from the building for around three hours. At the time, the workers were counting votes for local elections, and they continued doing so that same day. Robb Pitts, the commissioner of Fulton County, Georgia, said at a news conference on Thursday that the situation just goes to show that there are “some

According to a new study, cutting one teaspoon of salt from your diet each day can lower your top blood pressure reading just as much as a typical hypertension medication, even if you don’t have high blood pressure. A teaspoon of salt is 2,300 milligrams — that’s the top daily limit for people over 14 recommended by the latest U.S. nutritional guidelines. However, the American Heart Association recommends a diet with less than 1,500 milligrams of sodium a day. “This is the first study to show that people who are already on blood pressure medication can lower their blood pressure even more by limiting sodium,” said coprincipal investigator Norrina Allen, professor of preventive medicine at Northwestern University’s Feinberg School of Medicine. “And regardless of medication, we found 70% to 75% of people are likely to see a reduction in their blood pressure if they lower the sodium in their diet,” Allen said. High blood pressure is often called the “silent killer,” because there are no symptoms — the only way to know if you have it is to test for it. Yet hypertension affects 1 in 3 adults worldwide and can lead to heart attack, heart failure, kidney damage and stroke, according to a 2023 report by the World Health Organization. Nearly half of all Americans live with high blood pressure, according to the American Heart Association. About a third of those have “resistant” hypertension, high blood pressure that has not responded despite the concurrent use of three types of medications. A 2021 study found men ages 20 to 49 are up to 70% more likely to have uncontrolled hypertension than women of the same age. The study, published Saturday in the journal JAMA, assigned 213 people

NOVEMBER 16, 2023 | The Jewish Home

The Jewish Home | NOVEMBER 16, 2023

ages 50 to 75 to one week of a highor low-sodium diet. After eating that diet for seven days, each person then switched to the alternate diet. About 25% of the participants had normal blood pressure, while another 25% had untreated hypertension. Of the remaining group, 20% had blood pressure under control, while 31% did not. During the high-salt week, people ate their normal diet, along with two bouillon packets, each containing 1,100 milligrams of sodium. During the lowsalt week, people ate foods with low sodium, purchased and given to them by dietitians. The goal was only 500 milligrams of salt a day, a dramatic drop. The drop in blood pressure while on the low-sodium diet was quick and dramatic, according to the study. Compared to the high-sodium diet, blood pressure on the extremely low-salt diet dropped 8 millimeters of mercury. Cutting salt from your diet isn’t hard, it just takes getting used to, as foods may at first taste bland. Additionally, many foods contain a lot of salt: bread, pickles, snacks, and soups can be sneaky culprits.

Third GOP Debate

Republican presidential candidates Gov. Ron DeSantis, former Gov. Nikki Haley, Vivek Ramaswamy, former Gov. Chris Christie, and Sen. Tim Scott gathered on stage for the third Republican presidential debate in Miami, Florida, on Wednesday, November 8. Although the most amount of time was spent debating foreign policy, each of the candidates shared mostly the same thoughts on the Israel-Hamas War, which broke out on October 7. “I’d be telling Bibi: Finish the job once and for all with these butchers,” DeSantis said. “The first thing I said to him [Netanyahu] when it happened was I said, ‘Finish them,’” Haley echoed. The candidates, however, disagreed with regard to the war in Ukraine. During

the debate, Ramaswamy criticized Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and claimed that the invaded country has anti-American, Nazi-esque values. Haley responded to Ramaswamy’s comments by saying that Russian President Vladimir Putin and Chinese leader Xi Jinping are “salivating at the thought that someone like that could become president,” to which Christie agreed. “Let’s remember the last time that we turned our back on a shooting war in Europe,” Christie, who was otherwise not very vocal during the debate, said. “It bought us just a couple of years. And then 500,000 Americans were killed in Europe to defeat Hitler. This is not a choice.” DeSantis didn’t voice his opinions on Ukraine but simply said that “we aren’t going to send your sons and daughters to Ukraine… I am going to send troops to our southern border.” It took over ninety minutes for the five candidates to begin speaking about abortion. Scott called for a 15-week federal abortion ban, while Haley maintained that states should decide abortion rights for themselves. The debate got heated when the topic of China came up. DeSantis said that he had “banned China from buying land in the state” of Florida and accused Haley of having a history of being friendly with China. “She welcomed them into South Carolina, gave them land near a military base, wrote the Chinese ambassador a love letter, saying what a great friend they were. That was like their No. 1 way to do economic development,” DeSantis said. Haley pushed back against DeSantis, accusing him of being the chair of an economic development agency that said that Florida is the best place for Chinese businesses. Ramaswamy went on to attack both contenders, echoing DeSantis’ claims against Haley and adding his own against DeSantis, claiming that the Florida governor has ties to a pro-China donor. At one point in the debate, Ramaswamy defended his use of TikTok and went on to point out that Haley’s daughter uses the app. In response, Haley referred to him in a disparaging way. Since the debate, Tim Scott has dropped out of the race for the GOP nomination.

by someone intentionally, according to California Gov. Gavin Newsom. A preliminary investigation found there was “malice intent,” Newsom said at a news conference, adding it was “done and set intentionally.” An investigation is still ongoing, and the governor did not say whether there were any suspects or leads on who may have set the blaze.

Fire Closes Major LA Road

Last week, FBI agents seized the cell phones and an iPad of New York City Mayor Eric Adams as part of a federal investigation into campaign fundraising. The investigation is probing whether foreign money was funneled to his

The massive fire that forced the indefinite closure of Interstate 10, a major traffic artery in Los Angeles, was set

According to Mayor Karen Bass, the closure of the interstate is a “crisis” for a city already notorious for its traffic woes. She urged travelers to prepare for delays and plan alternative routes while the interstate remains shut down in both directions near Alameda Street in the city’s downtown area. More than 300,000 people travel through the freeway corridor every day, state Transportation Secretary Toks Omishakin said. The fire had started at a storage yard early Saturday morning. The blaze spread under the freeway and ignited another storage facility, ultimately engulfing about 80,000 square feet and destroying several vehicles. For now, it is not known when the interstate will be open. The road runs five lanes in each direction; the affected area is around 450 feet long. Newsom has declared a state of emergency for Los Angeles County due to the closure and said the state would assess the damage and begin making repairs as soon as the site could be accessed. Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg said in a statement he was in touch with California officials, adding the federal highway administrator is expected in Los Angeles this week.

Eric Adams’ Phones Seized

NOVEMBER 16, 2023 | The Jewish Home

The Jewish Home | NOVEMBER 16, 2023

NOVEMBER 16, 2023 | The Jewish Home

The Jewish Home | NOVEMBER 16, 2023

campaign, bringing it directly to the mayor. The investigation is being handled by the FBI and the US attorney’s office for the Southern District of New York. Adams has not been accused of any wrongdoing so far, but he is the latest politician to come under scrutiny for ties to foreign governments – in his case, Turkey.

The seizure of the items came days after the FBI raided the home of Adams’ chief fundraiser as part of the investigation to determine whether the mayor’s 2021 campaign conspired with a Brooklyn-based construction company to funnel foreign money into campaign coffers. “As a former member of law enforcement, I expect all members of my staff to follow the law and fully cooperate with any sort of investigation — and I will continue to do exactly that,” the

mayor, a Democrat, said in a statement on Friday. “I have nothing to hide.” Adams’ campaign attorney and spokesperson, Boyd Johnson, said, “After learning of the federal investigation, it was discovered that an individual had recently acted improperly. In the spirit of transparency and cooperation, this behavior was immediately and proactively reported to investigators. “The mayor has not been accused of any wrongdoing and continues to cooperate with the investigation,” he added. Last Monday, the mayor delivered a speech at New York University’s Kimmel Center. After the speech, FBI agents approached Adams on the street and “walked right up to him,” according to two sources. The agents asked his NYPD security detail to step aside. They then climbed into Adams’ city-issued SUV and presented him with a warrant to seize his electronic devices. The mayor typically reads public remarks from an iPad and carries two phones. All three devices were turned over to the FBI.

SCOTUS Ethics Code

The Supreme Court issued an ethics code on Monday after a series of revelations about undisclosed property deals and gifts intensified pressure on the justices to adopt one. In a statement, the justices said they had established the code of conduct “to set out succinctly and gather in one place the ethics rules and principles that guide the conduct of the members of the court.” Left unclear was how the rules would be enforced or by whom. The code, laid out over nine pages, does not place specific restrictions on gifts, travel or real estate deals. But it does caution the justices that they should not take part in outside activities that “detract from the dignity of the justice’s office,” “interfere with the performance of the justice’s official duties,” “reflect adversely on the justice’s impartiality” or “lead to frequent disqualification.” The rules also prohibit justices from allowing “family, social, political, financial or other relationships to influence official conduct or judgment.” The document cites examples of when justices must recuse themselves from a case, including when they have a “personal bias” or a financial interest. Although judges in the lower federal courts are bound by an ethics code, the Supreme Court has never been governed by those rules because of its special constitutional status. In a letter to lawmakers this spring, Chief Justice John Roberts said the court “takes guidance” from the ethics code for other federal judges. Calls for the court to adopt a code intensified after revelations that raised questions about potential conflicts of interest. Justice Clarence Thomas, in particular, has faced scrutiny, in part over the political activities of his wife, Virginia Thomas. In April, ProPublica documented the justice’s years of undisclosed luxury travel, including private jets and trips aboard a superyacht at the largesse of a Texas real estate magnate and conservative do-

nor, Harlan Crow. In all, said James Sample, a law professor at Hofstra University, the new code is a modest improvement. “Will this code of conduct solve the problems?” he asked. “No. There will certainly be questions as to enforcement. There will be questions as to details, and you can quibble over certain of the provisions. But this is a significant step.” (© The New York Times)

Lost and Never Found

Whoops! There is now a tool bag floating through space due to an astronaut’s slippery fingers. NASA astronauts Jasmin Moghbeli and Loral O’Hara marked their first spacewalk this month and concluded their maintenance work outside the International Space Station (ISS) in six hours and 42 minutes, according to the space agency. The pair was able to get most of their tasks done – including working on items that help track the station’s solar arrays which track the sun – but they weren’t able to check the last thing off their list and left that for a future space walk. During the hours-long mission, a tool bag gave them the slip and was “lost,” NASA said, with flight controllers spotting it using the ISS’s external cameras. Fortunately, the tools were not required for the remainder of their tasks. “Mission Control analyzed the bag’s trajectory and determined that risk of recontacting the station is low and that the onboard crew and space station are safe with no action required,” NASA said on its official blog. According to EarthSky, a website tracking cosmic events, the tool bag is currently orbiting Earth ahead of the

NOVEMBER 16, 2023 | The Jewish Home

The Jewish Home | NOVEMBER 16, 2023

ISS and can potentially be spotted from Earth with a pair of binoculars during the next few months until it disintegrates in our planet’s atmosphere. This is not the first time an astronaut lost tools in space. In 2008, Heide Stefanyshyn-Piper’s bag floated away while she was cleaning and lubricating gears on a malfunctioning rotary joint. A 2006 spacewalk saw astronauts Piers Sellers and Michael Fossum lose a 14inch spatula while testing a method of repairing the space shuttle. Recently, the European Space Agency estimated that 35,290 objects were being tracked and cataloged by the various space surveillance networks, with the total mass of objects orbiting Earth amounting to more than 11,000 tons. Sounds out of this world.

Chix Mix Want to know what chickens snack on during the day? Well, wonder no more. Perdue has come out with a new snack that is “made from most of the same ingredients” that’s in the company’s chicken feed. The stunt promotes Perdue’s vegetarian and antibiotic-free chicken feed,

because the company said in a release that consumers have become “increasingly interested in the health and quality of the foods they eat.” So, what’s in the non-kosher chicken snack bag?

Perdue’s chicken feed contains grains, primarily consisting of corn and soybeans and is mixed with vitamins, minerals and amino acids to “ensure a nutritionally balanced diet,” according to its website. Unlike some of its competitors, Perdue does not use antibiotics in its the vast majority of its chicken feed. Chix Mix is similar: The snack contains corn, wheat puffs and edamame, but with a dash of barbecue spices “just for humans,” a release said. If you want to eat like a chicken, you better hurry. The snack is on sale on the company website for just a few days this week. Cluck, cluck.

A Canine Kid

Pets truly become part of a family. That’s what a Colombian court ruled last week. The saga began with Jader Alexis Castano, who felt depressed after his wife took the family dog, Simona, in a divorce. Jader said that the dog would also become depressed when he came to visit Jader and had to go back home. According to Jader, his former wife refused to allow him preset, guaranteed visits from his dog child. And so, Jader went to court, arguing that the dog should be legally considered “his daughter” and treated as such in divorce. He alleged that Simona was part of the “family’s nucleus,” and that both he and the dog had been adversely affected following the divorce because his former wife did not grant him frequent visits. The court agreed, saying that the canine was an official member of the “multispecies” family before the divorce tore it asunder. And so, Jader is now entitled to have scheduled visits with Simona. It’s the first time a Colombian court has ruled that an animal can be considered a member of the family if it’s treated as such by its owners. But Colombia is not the only country at the cutting edge of this legal matter, according to ReVista: Harvard Review of Latin America. “Latin American legal systems are at the forefront of considering animals as family members,” according to the online magazine. “In a global recent attitudinal change toward animals in western societies, today, many people recognize themselves as part of a multispecies family.” In 2018, for instance, a Peruvian court

ruled that Petunia, a 3-year-old pig, was a member of one family in the country’s central highlands region of Junín after the municipal government said the pig was a public health risk and ordered her family to transfer her to a farm. As for Simona, a family judge must now rule the exact visiting schedule for Castaño and the pup, “his daughter,” the lawsuit states. Sounds ruff.

Pink Pond

We don’t need to tell you not to drink the water. A pond at the Kealia National Wildlife Refuge is now bright pink. It is one of the few coastal salt marshes on the island of Maui in Hawaii. Due to an extreme drought, its salt content surged, painting the water a magenta hue since at least October 30. But don’t be frightened. Water samples sent to the University of Hawaii suggest that halobacteria is behind the pond’s new magenta hue, according to the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. Halobacteria are single-celled organisms that thrive in very salty water, like the Great Salt Lake and the Dead Sea. The bacterium is considered a so-called extremophile because of its ability to live in such an extreme environment – in this case, one where the water salinity is twice that of seawater. Around 90% of Maui County, which includes other islands, is in at least severe drought – one that has grown even worse since a deadly wildfire ripped through Lahaina in August. “Water, water everywhere. Nor any drop to drink.”

Did you know? The 32-ounce bag of Kirkland Signature House Blend Medium Roast is custom-roasted by Starbucks.

NOVEMBER 16, 2023 | The Jewish Home

The Jewish Home | NOVEMBER 16, 2023

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Community Shulamith Hafrashat Challah Event

ast Wednesday night, the Shulamith family joined together in The Seawane Club for a very special Hafrashat Challah event. Over 500 mothers and daughters from grades 1-12 united through tefillah and song to daven and do mitzvot for our brothers and sisters in Eretz Yisrael. The beautiful evening was filled with inspiration, unity and chizuk. Our elementary school Menahelet, Mrs. Elka Ginsparg, welcomed us with a Dvar Torah highlighting the significance of the night, and our High School Menahelet, Mrs. Sara Munk, followed with a perek of Tehillim that the mothers and daughters recited together. We davened as one, wrote uplifting letters of thanks to the soldiers, and decorated tzedakah boxes for more opportunities to do mitzvot. Each family made the bracha of hafrashat challah on their dough, which was marked with the names of each of the hostages, and over 500 women and girls of Shulamith answered Amen together. What a powerful moment it was! We would like to thank Mrs. Bhatia and Michal for preparing the challah

dough one step at a time, so we could learn the significance of each important ingredient. Thank you to Mrs. Hecht, who shared the story of her brave son, Mendy, who left home in New York after October 7 to join the army reserves in Israel. She encouraged us to continue to do mitzvot and spread good in the world, which will protect our soldiers and ultimately bring Mashiach. Mrs. Hecht and her daughters then performed hafrashat challah and davened with all of us for the safe return of their son and of all the soldiers and captives. After everyone made a bracha, the amazing Shimi Adar led us in an uplifting and heartwarming Kumzitz. The room was filled with the sweet sound of over 500 beautiful voices of mothers and daughters, arm in arm, with one big heart. The event concluded with dancing together proudly, to celebrate how fortunate we are to be a part of our incredible nation! The amazing Shulamith ruach and achdut filled that room, and will fill our hearts forever! B”H, it was a night to remember.

A sincere gratitude goes to The Seawane Club and their entire outstanding team, for their strong support and dedication, and for going above and beyond on every level to accommodate our needs for this event. A heartfelt hakarat hatov goes to the incredible SWO, our devoted Harriet, and the amazing Hafrashat Challah Event committee for all your hard work to ensure a beautiful and successful

night, B”H! In the zechut of the tremendous achdut and tfillot of our Shulamith family, may Hashem protect our soldiers, return our hostages, and send refuot, yeshuot and nechamot to all in need. May we see peace and joy in Eretz Yisrael and for all of Klal Yisrael, with Mashiach soon! Am Yisrael chai!

NOVEMBER 16, 2023 | The Jewish Home

The Jewish Home | NOVEMBER 16, 2023

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A Memorable Membership Tea

n November 7, the Women’s League of TAG kicked off their first event of the year. When one entered the beautiful home of gracious hostess, Mrs. Chana Loeb, one was immediately aware of the many areas displaying the beautiful array of delicious foods. You also could not miss the fact that this spacious home soon became packed to capacity with standing room only. What, you may ask, was the catalyst for this most amazing evening? One could easily point to the dynamic and popular speaker, Rabbi Yossi Bensoussan, who delivered his important message with a touch of humor and with a keen understanding of the issues that are affecting

parents today. Women’s League was also blessed with a super team of mothers who worked so hard to ensure the success of this event. Many thanks to the committee members, Racheli Blumenkrantz, Suri Feuchtwanger, Ariella Flegmann, Mindy Glaser, Shani Hildeshaim, Nataly Magendzo, Mary Mandel, Naomi Newman, Miriam Rubenstein, Tzipora Sax, Amanda Waltuch and Devorah Zolty. Add in the adorable TAG headband student giveaway, which graced many a head the next day at school, as well as the timely and the beautiful Tefilas L’Hatzlachas Habonim for the mothers, and you can see why everyone who attended declared that it was truly an evening to remember.

Rabbi Yossi Bensoussan captivated the large audience with his important parenting message

Rabbi Meyer Weitman, Dean of TAG, led the mothers in saying two kapitlach of Tehillim as a zechus for Eretz Yisroel

One of TAG’s first grade classes proudly wearing their new TAG headbands

Lavish Sheva Brachos Hosted by “Nechomas Yisroel” in the Home of Rav Shmuel Kamenetsky, shlita

Rabbi Shmuel Dovid Friedman sharing insightful thoughts and praising Nechomas Yisroel

Rav Usher Friedman, shlita, founder and director of Nechomas Yisroel, thanking the distinguished Rosh Yeshiva for his efforts on behalf of Nechomas Yisroel

Renowned philanthropist Reb Chaim Kaufman, honored by the Rosh Yeshiva with benching

The beloved Rosh Yeshiva, Rav Shmuel Kamenetsky, shlita, delivered emotional remarks about the tremendous accomplishments of Nechomas Yisroel

lavish sheva brachos was recently hosted by Nechomas Yisroel in the home of Rav Shmuel

Kamenetsky, shlita, the Rabbinical leader of Nechomas Yisroel. It was held in honor of the simcha of the longtime

gabbai of the Rosh Yeshiva, the distinguished Reb Eliezer Weinman, who dedicates himself to the Rosh Yeshiva

and to Nechomas Yisroel.

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Hundreds of Siach Yitzchok parents came out this past Motzei Shabbos to hear divrei chizuk from the Menahel, Reb Dovid Sitnick, shlit”a, at the annual Siach Yitzchok Chinuch Melava Malka. The event began with everyone standing and reciting Tehilim for Acheinu Bnei Yisroel.

ais Yaakov Five Towns held its annual Open House this past Sunday, November 12 at their beautiful campus in Lawrence. Prospective parents were eager to learn about the school’s current success and vision for next year and beyond. Rav Moshe Plutchok, BY5T’s Rabbinical advisor, welcomed the crowd with divrei bracha and Torah. Mrs. Bracha Wrona, Menaheles, spoke about the mesorah of Bais Yaakov and infusing our students with an excitement for Yiddishkeit. Mrs. Rina Plutchok, Preschool Director, focused on the school’s multi-sensory, hands-on approach bringing all lessons to life. Mrs. Mindy Futersak, Elementary School principal, highlighted BY5T’s

way of cultivating the talents of each child through the curriculum, ensuring that each girl shines. The crowd was also privileged to hear from Dr. Racheli Yudin, a member of our educational board, about the importance of the home and school partnership while also explaining the vision of our school through the BY5T Portrait of a Graduate. After a video presentation featuring the learning and excitement at BY5T, the parents were invited to tour the state-ofthe-art classrooms that will include nursery through 2nd grade for the 2024-2025 school year. For applications and to find out about upcoming local open house events, please reach out to our office: 516500-BY5T or visit www.BY5T.org.

STEM at YOSS

n Mrs. Zajac’s fourth grade class at YOSS, we take STEM very seriously! The skills attained through STEM education include problem solving, critical thinking, creativity, curiosity, decision making, leadership, entrepreneurship, trial and error, and more. STEM activities provide hands-on and mindson lessons for the students. The fourth grade has made cereal box houses and spaghetti and marshmallow structures which involve creating cool and durable structures while keeping the

spaghetti intact. Activities such as these challenge the boys to use their creativity while understanding what it means to work as a team. Another component of our classroom is the connection we make between our Social Studies unit and our STEM units. For example, the boys enjoyed making Birchbark canoes like the Algonquian Tribe did. Finding solutions through the use of household items are some of the creative and exciting ways the boys in Mrs. Zajac’s fourth grade class at YOSS learn!

Mercaz Academy Students Practice the Art of Advocacy

hat can you accomplish with the push of one button? Fifth and sixth graders at Mercaz Academy in Plainview will tell you—a lot. These students used their Chromebooks to write personalized letters to Senators Schumer and Gillibrand, expressing their thanks for support of Israel in its time of crisis and asking that they continue to provide Israel with the assistance it needs going forward.

In doing so, Mercaz students learned not only the art of advocacy but that our democratic system welcomes it. Guided by Mercaz President Jeffrey Lichtman, they reviewed how our federal and state officials act in different roles, but all are responsible to those who elect them. Understanding that the federal government is in charge of foreign policy, the students began to exercise their rights of free speech by expressing their priorities to the federal

officials who represent all New Yorkers— their senators. These empowered students tailored their own messages to convey why Israel is so important to them and their families. By pressing the “send” button, each student started not only on a lifelong path of participating in American democracy, but also of keeping achaynu kol beit Yisrael (our brother and sisters, all the house of Israel) top of mind and advocating on

their behalf. As one student put it after sending the emails, “I am now officially an advocate!”

NOVEMBER 16, 2023 | The Jewish Home

BY5T Open House Event

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The Jewish Home | NOVEMBER 16, 2023

Rosh Chodesh Kislev at Siach Yitzchok

Did you know? Toilet paper is a best seller at Costco, with more than one billion rolls sold each year.

A TAPtastic Week

ear Ahuva,

I had a busy week. I had a wedding one night, a bar mitzvah another night, and went away for Shabbos. I was so proud of how well I did through all these challenges. I didn’t touch cake or desserts, hardly had any challah, was careful on my portion sizes, and generally felt like I was really watching. I was so excited for my weigh-in, as I was sure I lost three pounds this week. Yet, when I got on the scale, it showed that I had stayed the same. I am so upset. What was the point of all that work if I was just going to stay the same?! Signed, Surprised and Disappointed Dear Surprised and Disappointed, Wow! I really do feel your frustration. This is common – when someone has a week full of simchas, vacations, or other challenges they feel that the scale should reflect how hard they worked. Meaning, if you were fighting temptation all week, the expectation might be that instead of losing the typical 1 or 2 pounds, you should be down 3 or 4 pounds! Unfortunately, the scale doesn’t work that way. Your nutrition counselor definitely appreciates all the hard work that you put in, but the scale only knows what you actually ate, not how hard you worked. And although you may have chosen very well considering the difficult situations you were in, you may not have been as “on plan” as you think you were.

For example, you may have been eating late meals which is not great for weight loss and is not recommended on our plan. You also may have not had the proper portion sizes, and the food may have been prepared differently than you would have done it at home. Therefore, in a week filled with simchas, you may want to adjust your expectations, with the goal being just to maintain your weight and not necessarily to lose. Do not despair! Had you not been watching carefully, you may have even gained a pound or two over the week, which would be even more disappointing and more of a setback. Always keep in mind that if you have a busy week full of yom tov or simchas, it is okay to just maintain your weight. On the other hand, if your lifestyle is such that you really have week after week of nightly simchas, you may need to make the decision to eat at home rather than trying to choose well at each simcha. Depending on your lifestyle and how often you are out at night, as well as how much weight you have to lose, eating before the simcha may be necessary, and should be discussed with your nutrition counselor. Good Luck, Ahuva Remember, we’re here for you! Call, text, or email, whether it’s with questions or just for support. Wishing you a healthy and TAPtastic week!

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In Appreciation NOVEMBER 16, 2023 | The Jewish Home

Bar-Ilan University Unveils $10M Student Lifeline Campaign for its Chayalim

YDT Security Officer Rasheen Ellis; Rosh HaYeshiva Rav Yaakov Bender; NYPD Officer Arthur; NYPD Detective Blanchette; YDT Security Chief Everett Fortune; YDT Security Officer Orrett Wilson; Aron Zupnik; Menahel Rav Avrohom Bender; and Yoshi Friedman.

wo of Yeshiva Darchei Torah’s devoted security guards were recognized for their quick and hero-

By Jen Zwiebel

ast Wednesday evening, American Friends of Bar-Ilan University (AFBIU) hosted its first-ever in-person Circle meeting for its Northeast members and friends. The intimate gathering featured Professor Moshe Lewenstein, Deputy President of Bar-Ilan, who described how the University and its staff held an emergency meeting on the evening of October 7th and prioritized outreach of calls to each of its 20,000 students. Professor Lewenstein came to New York to raise awareness for “We Have Your Back,” a new Bar-Ilan student lifeline fund for over 5,000 students – now Chayalim – serving on Israel’s frontlines in Gaza. “From here on out, the American Friends of Bar-Ilan University is now the American Family of Bar-Ilan University,” said AFBIU CEO Robert Aronson. “To our family in this time of great need, we say these words from the depths of our heart: We Have Your Back!” The event took place at the exclusive Fifth Avenue showroom of Norwegian Wool, with 10 percent of proceeds from sales of the luxurious line benefiting AFBIU for the campaign. Attendees also received 10 percent off their purchases at this unique AFBIU “fun-raiser.” We thank Michael Berkowitz, CEO and Founder of Norwegian Wool LLC, for his generosity and for hosting the event in this beautiful space. “As Israel faces some of the most difficult times in its history, it is incumbent on all of us to roll up our sleeves and help

our brothers and sisters however much we can, in whatever ways we can,” said Michael. “For me and Norwegian Wool, hosting and supporting AFBIU was a true honor as Bar-Ilan is an educational institution that stands up for Jewish and Zionist values all the time, and is stepping up now to provide additional much needed assistance during this time of crisis.” Attendees included alumni of BarIlan’s popular one-year program and regular degree programs currently living in the northeast, including Rachel Raz who traveled by bus from her Boston home to participate. “My father joined Bar-Ilan University after the Yom Kippur War. He recently shared with me how the university opened a special semester for the returning soldiers which helped him to move up in his career later on and support the building of the Israeli health system. It was an honor to follow in his footsteps and join Bar-Ilan as a student about three decades ago,” said Rachel. “I came to the recent meeting to see what BIU is doing at this challenging time in Israel and Jewish history. I was so impressed by the level of care and support the university is giving to its students, faculty, and the wider community.” To help support Bar-Ilan’s students serving in the war against Hamas so they know we all have their backs, please visit www.afbiu.org/lifeline or contact Jennifer Zwiebel at 917-715-2415, Jennifer. zwiebel@afbiu.org.

ic actions during a recent auto accident near the Yeshiva.

Congressman Anthony D’Esposito Joins Massive “March for Israel” Rally in Washington, D.C.

Congressman Anthony D’Esposito, Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman and Nassau County Legislator Mazi Pilip with members of Hatzalah Israel first responders and pro-Israel supporters

ongressman Anthony D’Esposito (NY-04) joined over 290,000 fellow Americans at this week’s “March for Israel” rally in Washington, D.C. The rally, which was held at the National Mall adjacent to the Capitol Building, provided Americans from across the country an opportunity to demonstrate their support for Israel in their war against Hamas terrorists and condemn the recent rash of antisemitic activity that was unleashed after Hamas’ October 7th slaughter of over 1,200 innocent civilians inside Israel. “I was proud to stand alongside freedom loving Americans in the heart of our nation’s capital to demonstrate our support for our Israeli allies as they fight to defeat the evil forces of the Hamas terror group. As the Middle East’s lone democracy, Israel has long stood as a stead-

fast friend of the United States, and it is crucial that we now stand with our ally in their time of need. Today’s attendees at the ‘March for Israel’ also sent a loud and clear message that antisemitism will never be tolerated here in the United States, and that the phrase ‘never again’ is more than just a slogan, but that it is our rallying cry,” said D’Esposito. “Congress has been working to assist our Israeli allies, and I am happy to say the House passed the Israel Supplemental Appropriations Act, which is legislation I co-sponsored that provides over $14 billion in critical aid to Israel during this difficult time,” said D’Esposito. Other officials from Nassau County in attendance at today’s rally included Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman and Nassau County Legislator Mazi Pilip.

The Jewish Home | NOVEMBER 16, 2023

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Central Launches New Humanities Initiative

ne of the newest student-centered initiatives at Central is also a means by which to honor the memory of an incredible YUHSG alumna. This month, Central is officially launching the Adira Rose Koffsky, A”H, Humanities Scholars Program, an exciting new immersive experience that will support and nurture Central upperclassmen who demonstrate talents in literature, creative arts, and the performing arts. “Adira was such a superstar in the humanities,” said the new program’s director, Central’s Director of Guidance and English department faculty Mrs. Rena Boord. “We were looking for a way to both honor her memory and foster like-minded students at Central by focusing on new and unique opportunities in the humanities.”

The program is the brainchild of Mrs. Boord and Adira’s mother, writer and illustrator Mrs. Ann Koffsky. It’s a partnership that honors the special relationship that Mrs. Boord and Adira shared while Adira was a student. “Mrs. Boord and Adira spent all four years of high school together, as Mrs. Boord was also her teacher at the Midreshet Shalhevet High School for Girls,” Mrs. Koffsky said. “Together, we were looking to do something meaningful that would connect to the person Adira was and resonate with what was important to her. So naturally, we had the idea to focus on literary education.” Students will concentrate on one literary work each semester, beginning with Charles Dickens’ A Tale of Two Cities, and will explore the history and

context of that work – in this case, diving into the French Revolution and comparing that event with the American Revolution. Cultural trips into the city, live performances, and guest speakers from a variety of industries will also be a part of the program. But the initiative doesn’t stop there. To foster both their education and their creativity, students will also have the opportunity to write, which will give them a platform to collaborate with others. Adira herself was more of a quiet writer, Mrs. Koffsky said. “It’s interesting. She did not like sharing work as herself. She enjoyed having a pseudonym. She liked being out there – but quietly.” In this program, students will have a chance to work toward becoming published authors. The Humanities Scholars Program is an additional way in which

Adira Koffsky a”h

Central is preparing its students for a rich life of work and service after high school, joining the ranks of the new Leadership Track, administered in conjunction with Yeshiva University, and the ACE program, which readies young women for STEAM careers.

Out of the Classroom News in BYAM

n addition to the interesting educational programs and curricula that keep the students engaged on a daily basis, Bais Yaakov Ateres Miriam has incorporated some exciting out-of-theclassroom activities to help students foster connections and grow in other, non-academic areas. To this end, Mrs. Leah Zytman, principal at BYAM, has resumed her weekly pizza lunches. During these lunches, she meets with groups of girls and spends time getting to know the girls on a personal level. These meetings give the students the opportunity to share any

thoughts or concerns that they might have, empowering them to navigate any school concerns or requests on their own. To further foster the positive school and personal connection, the gracious PTA, spearheaded by Mrs. Deena Fried, Mrs. Brana Harris and Mrs. Gittel Tova Grant, has introduced an exciting-after school program to benefit the student body. The after-school program gives the girls the opportunity to learn new things in their own warm and positive environment. The various activities offered intend to offer something for everyone and include activities geared toward develop-

ing varied student interests. The junior high girls have the opportunity to learn guitar. Engineering is offered for those who are interested in math. For those who enjoy physical activity, the options include dance, gymnastics and basketball, where the participants are able to hone their abilities in these areas. Of course, art is a popular option as well. While the program has just started, there is a tidal wave of enthusiasm surrounding it. Stay tuned for more out of the classroom innovations and programs to follow!

M’Dor L’Dor at HANC

midst these challenging times, the Nursery Bet children in HANC’s Early Childhood Center provided a great deal of light and happiness to some very special guests this week. As the doors opened, a stream of eager grandparents filled the auditorium, and they could not wait to see and spend time with their adorable grandchildren in school. The program began with greetings from Rabbi Ouriel Hazan, Director of HANC’s West Hempstead campuses, and Mrs. Trudy Rubinstein, Director of the Early Childhood Center. Delighting the audience with songs about how much they love and appreciate their grandparents, and accompanied by the ECC music teacher, Morah Kayli, the children’s sweet voices warmed everyone’s heart. After

the performance, the children joined their grandparents at the festive tables, and together they created a very meaningful project. The children presented their grandparents with a tree that they previously created by hand painting the trunk and branches, and together they attached photographs of their grandparents, parents and siblings. This impactful project, created together by two and even some three generations, served as a keepsake gift for all the special guests. In addition, the grandparents decorated beautiful frames and all of the guests received a HANC “M’Dor L’Dor” (Generation to Generation) water bottle and tote bag as an additional gift. At the conclusion of the event, the crowd was treated to a delicious collation, including drinks, fruit platters,

cupcakes for the children and pastries for the adults. The joyfulness that was evident on the faces of all who attended created such light and happiness in the room. Ari Wein, stated: “It was beautiful for me to see our granddaughter, Natalie, begin to understand the foundation

of a family, and the importance of having family members involved in the educational process.” The children were also so pleased to have their grandparents in school with them and to share this precious moment together.

NOVEMBER 16, 2023 | The Jewish Home

The Jewish Home | NOVEMBER 16, 2023

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Crossing the Line: From Social Drinking to Alcohol Addiction

lcohol, a ubiquitous presence in our social lives, can sometimes transform from a casual indulgence into a life-altering addiction. The Slippery Slope: For many, alcohol begins as a means of socializing, unwinding, or celebrating special occasions. It’s a part of our culture, often seen as a harmless way to relax and connect with others. However, the line between social drinking and alcohol addiction can be deceptively thin. The Warning Signs: Recognizing when someone’s drinking habits are shifting from social to ad-

dictive is vital. Here are some warning signs to watch out for: 1. Increased Tolerance: One of the earliest signs is a heightened tolerance, requiring more alcohol to achieve the desired effects. 2. Neglecting Responsibilities: As addiction takes hold, individuals may start neglecting their daily responsibilities at work, home, or school. 3. Withdrawal Symptoms: Frequent cravings, irritability, and physical symptoms like tremors can indicate dependence. 4. Isolation: A person struggling

with alcohol addiction may withdraw from friends and family, preferring the company of alcohol. 5. Failed Attempts to Quit: Repeated, unsuccessful attempts to cut down or quit drinking are a clear red flag. The Safe Foundation is your confidential ally, we are here for you. If you or someone you know is experiencing the perils of alcohol addiction, there is hope and help available- call 718-GET-SAFE or 718-438-7233. The Safe Foundation is an OASAS licensed outpatient clinic committed to providing confidential support and

treatment; here’s what sets us apart: 1. Professional Expertise: Our team is comprised of licensed and trained experts with years of experience in addiction treatment. We offer evidence-based therapies tailored to individual needs. 2. Confidentiality: We understand the sensitivity of addiction struggles and prioritize confidentiality. Your journey to recovery is SAFE with us. 3. Family Support: Addiction affects not only the individual, but also his/her loved ones. We offer a treatment program for loved ones of those struggling even if their loved one is not in treatment with us. Our holistic approach provides support and resources for families as they navigate the challenges of recovery. 4. Personalized Care: No two individuals are the same, and neither are their addiction experiences. We offer personalized treatment plans that address the unique challenges you or your loved one faces. Our approach includes mental health support, medication management, and more. 5. Community Support: We encourage our clients to engage with a supportive community of fellow individuals in recovery, fostering a sense of belonging and understanding. Alcoholism is a dangerous path that can sneak up on anyone, regardless of age, gender, or background. It’s essential to recognize the signs of addiction and seek help when needed. With offices in Brooklyn and Eatontown, The Safe Foundation is here to guide you through this journey, providing confidential and professional support. Remember, you’re not alone, and recovery is possible with the right help and determination. Don’t wait until it’s too late; reach out and take the first step toward a healthier, alcohol-free life. Call 718-GET-SAFE or 718-438-7233 Visit www.thesafefoundation.org Follow us @thesafefoundation

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N Ben and Gali, an engaged couple who both lost legs from the terrorist attacks at the Nova Festival, are holding letters written in support by Gesher students

Fall exploration at Shulamith ECC

DRS Schoolwide Shabbaton

t is perhaps the most anticipated event of the DRS school year: The Annual Schoolwide Shabbaton. This past Shabbat, DRS sophomores, juniors, and seniors, accompanied by their rabbeim, spent the weekend at the Mountain Laurel Hotel in White Haven, Pennsylvania. Students eagerly boarded the buses bound for the Shabbaton on Thursday afternoon. Upon arrival at the hotel, the students were treated to a lavish BBQ, and then boarded buses to head to H2OOO! Indoor Water Park. Upon their return, students participated in a Shiur vs. Shiur Trivia Game, with the winning shiur receiving DRS yarmulkas. Everyone at the contest enjoyed a smorgasbord of hot kugel and chulent. On Friday morning, after Shacharis, a shiur, and a hearty breakfast, the students traveled to a nearby park to partake in the annual Shabbaton Flag Football Tournament, where 12 flag football games were played simultaneously! The pre-Shabbat festivities came to an end as students returned to the hotel to prepare for the holiness of Shabbat. After an inspiring Kabbalat Shabbat, students gathered for a spirited zemirot during dinner. During dinner, students offered words of divrei Torah and an entertaining comedy skit was put on by some of the rabbeim.

This year’s featured speaker was Rabbi Ari Blau. Rabbi Blau enjoyed a career as a stand-up comic and writer-producer for “The Late Late Show” with James Corden, before turning his life around, becoming a baal teshuva and leaving Hollywood for “Holy-wood.” He spoke to the talmidim about finding meaning in their lives beyond the materialistic things we sometimes hold most important. After the educational session, it was time for one of the highlights of Shabbat: the Friday Night DRS Tish led by Rabbi Kaminetsky. Students and rabbeim packed into a section of the ballroom and the inspired singing late into the night. Following the Tisch, shiurim held “Post Tisch-Tisches” in various locations throughout the hotel, to engender more bonding time between rebbe and talmidim. On Shabbat day, students were treated to a fabulous kiddush followed by parsha time with their rabbeim. The Seudat Shabbat included more lively zemirot and divrei Torah from various students. After an incredibly inspiring Shalosh Seudot and havdalah, the students headed to the dining room for a spirited Melava Malka with lively dancing. The Shabbaton was a great way for students of different ages to strengthen friendships, as well as their relationships with their rabbeim.

ew York State Assemblywoman Stacey Pheffer Amato (D-South Queens) was personally selected to participate in a high-level State visit to Israel this week. The Assemblywoman flew to Israel and will meet with survivors of the October 7 Hamas terrorist attacks, participate in talks with members of the Israeli government, while also bringing a message of love from the people of New York to Israel. The Assemblywoman had recently been to Israel in February and had visited Kibbutz Kfar Aza which was brutally struck during the horrendous terrorist attacks. “This is personal on several levels,” said Pheffer Amato. “I have loved Israel since my first visit in 1981. I’m proud to support Israel, and it’s important for every Israeli to know that during these horribly dark times, the people of New York, especially here in our community, love them and are praying for them,” said

Assemblywoman Pheffer Amato. Pheffer Amato is an outspoken supporter of Israel and known for being the leading ally in the State Legislature for defending the Jewish community. Recently, she supported Comptroller Tom DiNapoli’s purchase of over $20 million in Israel Bonds, bringing the State’s holdings in Israel bonds to over $267 million.

NOVEMBER 16, 2023 | The Jewish Home

Assemblywoman Pheffer Amato Visits Israel

The Jewish Home | NOVEMBER 16, 2023

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Memorable Evening at YCQ’s Bar Mitzvah Workshop

rade 7 students at YCQ and their families had a memorable evening on Monday, November 6, at the annual Bar Mitzvah Workshop. Leading up to bar mitzvah season, students gather to learn more about what it means to become a bar mitzvah and how to appropriately celebrate the occasion for themselves and with their friends. Students beautifully presented a short speech about the meaning of their Hebrew names and the divrei Torah were collected into a packet for everyone to learn more about their friend’s names and forge a deeper connection with their classmates. The program also included a special demonstration from a sofer, Rabbi Zvi Chaim Pincus. Rabbi Pincus brought in various different materials related to te-

fillin and spoke about the process and the meaning of wearing the special spiritual item. The famous “Schnitzel Guys” were also in attendance to bring some ruach and demonstrated how to appropriately and effectively dance at a simcha. And of course, a delicious dinner was catered by Smash House Burger in Kew Gardens Hills. Special thank you to Mr. Jacob Grossman and Rabbi Ephraim Bernstein for organizing such a beautiful evening.

HAFTR Mock Trial Program

AFTR’s fifth grade Mock Trial program, under the Nassau County Bar Association’s pilot program, began with resounding success, as a team of twelve students embarked on a journey to explore the intricacies of legal proceedings. Under the guidance of dedicated coaches – local lawyers and HAFTR parents Ariella Gasner, Esq., and Heidi Bausk, Esq., along with the assistance of Mrs. Bracha Katz – the students delved into key legal concepts and gained their first exposure to examination techniques. The students eagerly participated in creating “Assumption of the Risk” scenarios, one after the next. With the guidance of their mentors, they are poised to make a strong impact in the Mock Trial arena as they take on roles and perform various trial tasks, including opening and closing arguments, cross-examination, and direct examinations.

The program doesn’t end in the classroom; it offers unique opportunities for practical, hands-on learning. Students will have the chance to witness the High School Mock Trial Tournament and even participate in a practice trial at the prestigious Nassau County Bar Association. However, the true culmination of their efforts will be the actual Mock Trial competition to be held at The Nassau County Supreme Court in mid-June. This program is more than just an academic exercise; it’s a dynamic, experiential learning opportunity designed to nurture the budding legal minds of tomorrow. These young participants are eager to embark on this enriching journey, fueled by their newfound understanding of the complexities and nuances of the legal world. Wishing much success to our HAFTR Fifth Grade Mock Trial Hawks!

Orthodox Union’s Yachad Participants Tour White House

hen it comes to selecting their favorite recreational group activity, Yachad New York participants always choose bowling. Imagine the thrill, when 12 of them were presented with a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to bowl at the Harry S. Truman Bowling Alley on a recent visit to the White House. Yachad, a division of the Orthodox Union, helps individuals with intellectual, developmental, and learning disabilities participate more fully in the community, via social, recreational, educational, and vocational programs in 10 regions across the United States, Israel and Canada. Accompanied by eight staff members, 12 Yachad New York participants ages 17 to 37 recently traveled to Washington, D.C., for a White House bowling session and tour organized by Yachad’s Rabbinic and Spiritual Advisor Rabbi Shay Schachter. “It is always a pleasure spending quality time with Yachad participants,” says Rabbi Schachter, who joined the group onsite. “But nothing in the world can compare to sharing Yachad participants’ joy, smiles and excitement while bowling at the White House! What a memorable day for all of us.” “We had a nice representation of participants from various Yachad programs,” says Yachad New York Director Rebecca

Schrag Mayer. “Some attend Yachad’s Ivdu School, some go to Yachad’s day and vocational programs, and all of them had the pleasure of sharing what they did and learned with peers in various programs once they returned.” Yachad New York runs regular social and recreational programs including weekly activities, Shabbatons and holiday-related events, often in partnership with local synagogues and schools. Schrag Mayer says the White House outing was the most exciting to date, and participants’ delight was palpable. “Prior to the trip, everyone attended a Zoom training session where we discussed the role and activities of the White House and outlined our expectations including appropriate behavior and attire,” she says. “We told them they could wear nicer clothes, but that they didn’t need to be fancy. Yet so many of our participants showed up wearing suits and ties the day

of our trip in honor of the visit!” Despite the very long distance, the bus rides to and from Washington were remarkably enjoyable; people played games, exchanged trivia, watched movies and chatted excitedly. “Some of the staff who joined us were so surprised to see the excitement of certain participants who tend to be on the quieter side,” says Schrag Mayer. “Our participants generally lead very routine lives – they go to their job sites, day programs or schools and return home to their families or group homes. This trip was a chance for them to go somewhere very special on their own, and it was a very big deal.” Participants’ families were equally enthusiastic about the trip. In honor of the occasion, Jake Rosenthal’s parents, of Woodmere, New York, sponsored “Bowling at the White House 2023” sweatshirts for the entire group that in-

cluded Yachad’s logo alongside an American flag. Following almost two hours of bowling in the Eisenhower Executive Office Building where the guests were treated to kosher snacks, the group enjoyed a guided tour of notable rooms and sites. “I liked the White House staff,” says New Yorker David Orlansky. “They made the extra effort to let me ride the elevator. I really enjoyed the tour and seeing where so many people come to work. I want to write them thank you letters.” Other trip highlights included numerous photo ops, davening Mincha outside the White House, and box sets of Hershey’s kisses signed by President Biden which were gifted to each participant upon departing. Several Yachad visitors gave White House staff notes of gratitude addressed to President Biden in recognition of his unequivocal support for Israel.

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he world of wine in Israel, perhaps the oldest wine-producing region in the world, has always represented a sense of peace and goodwill but has become collateral damage of the horrible atrocities that occurred on October 7th. To raise awareness and in support of Israel and Israeli wineries, the Israeli Wine Producers Association (IWPA), a trade organization promoting Israeli wineries through wine education and events, is asking consumers to “Sip For Solidarity.” The massacre has had an immediate, concrete impact, particularly on picking, sorting and winemaking teams. Harvest had begun shortly before the attacks, which meant that the sorting, crushing and fermentation processes, were, in many cases, done under the constant threat of attack and bombardment. For many wineries, production teams have been hollowed out as the young men and women who normally would be shepherding the crucial winemaking process have called up to help defend the nation.

“Winemaking has its own schedule, unlike other industries where you

Shevach Focuses on “Guard’en Your Speech”

n Tuesday morning, November 7, Shevach High School had an exciting morning with the initiation of their Mishmeres program. Under the guidance of Mishmeres coordinator Mrs. Bayla Tropper, a campaign was launched focusing on shemiras halashon and positive speech. With the recent tragedies in Eretz Yisroel, everyone understood that these trying times place an even greater importance on guarding our speech and treating others with respect and kindness, as a special z’chus for yeshuas Hashem. To vividly portray this year’s theme, a transformed Multi-Purpose Room, decorated with flowers and ivy to resemble a garden, greeted the students. The walls conveyed messages comparing positive speech to nature, such as, “allow yourself to grow,” “treet your mouth with respect,” and “plant your words with care.” The program began with Tehilim led by Shevach Menaheles, Mrs. Shulamith Insel, who passionately spoke about the importance of this initiative. The students then heard an inspirational message from

Rabbi Paysach Krohn, underscoring the sensitivity we must have when dealing with others. This was followed by an eye-catching Mishmeres Halashon video produced by the Chofetz Chaim Heritage Foundation. Mishmeres HeadsBracha Lavian, Shayna Mendelson, and Leba Kayla Rothberg then introduced this year’s theme, “Guard’en Your Speech,” with an original song/dance which incorporated words depicting nature and gardens. This multi-faceted program clearly illustrated the importance of learning shemiras halashon. The first Mishmeres initiative of the year was then introduced to the school. Students who learn a halacha a day for sixteen days will receive a special incentive at the end of the month. The Mishmeres program will continue throughout the year, and through different initiatives, is hoping to create an awareness of the importance of choosing our words when speaking to others. Thank you to Shevach junior Shayna Mendelsohn for reporting on this special day.

can pause production or run with limited staff. Grapes grow and ripen when

they do; the winemaking process is very hands-on. Without staff, many wineries face an impending crisis,” said Joshua Greenstein, the Vice President of the IWPA. “Additionally, wine is usually something enjoyed when you go out to eat or to a party, and people in Israel aren’t feeling particularly celebratory these days. It’s catastrophic not just for this year’s sales but for the vintages harvesting now that won’t be ready for sale for years to come.” Asked what people can do to help, Mr. Greenstein said, “Buy a bottle of Israeli wine. Not only will the purchase help the wineries, but we’re donating 10% of every case shipped from November 1, 2023 - December 31, 2023 to Israeli relief efforts. With the wine consuming public’s support, these challenges are surmountable, and wineries will still craft wines that accurately and deliciously reflect the character of the vintage and of Israel, just as they always have.”

NOVEMBER 16, 2023 | The Jewish Home

“Sip For Solidarity” To Support Israeli Wineries

The Jewish Home | NOVEMBER 16, 2023

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Gan Chamesh’s Grand Achdus Challah Bake

n conjunction with learning about Sara Imeinu and her challahs in the weekly parshios, the children at Gan Chamesh joined together for a joint,

hands-on Achdus Challah Bake. This experience gave them a deeper understanding and appreciation of this special mitzvah.

HALB students participate in the multimedia Ani Tefillah program, helping them to strengthen their connection to Hashem in an exciting and creative way

OU Kosher Adds Two New Options to Consumer Product Search Website

f the hundreds of weekly queries OU (Orthodox Union) Kosher fields from consumers via its Kosher Hotline and Webbe Rebbe forum, the most popular centers on Oreo cookies. “The most frequently asked shaila in America is whether Oreos are dairy, pareve, or simply made with dairy equipment,” says OU Kosher Chief Executive Officer Rabbi Menachem Genack. “While some Oreos are dairy, others are in fact pareve. But they are all marked OU-D in order to enable the manufacturers to change the formula, should they wish, without having to incur the tremendous costs of altering product labels.” The Oreo question is particularly meaningful to people who observe Cholov

Yisroel, live in smaller Jewish communities devoid of pareve food options, have milk allergies, or simply wish to indulge in these treats following a meat meal. Thanks to OU Kosher’s recent addition of two new categories to its product search website, consumers can now obtain instant answers to their dairy equipment and yoshon-related questions. The site now also lists 2,000 additional products designated by OU Kosher as DE or yoshon that lack the official certification symbols on the product packaging. “We’re here to serve the community,” says OU Kosher Chief Operating Officer Rabbi Moshe Elefant. “That’s our mission. Consumers have increasingly conveyed that the DE and yoshon designations are important to them, and we have

responded. OU Kosher’s objective is to provide timely kashrus information in the most sophisticated way possible.” As the world’s largest and most widely recognized international kosher certification agency, OU Kosher certifies over one million products manufactured in 13,000 plants in 105 countries. The organization certifies two-thirds of all kosher food in the United States and has endorsed DE and yoshon products for over 20 years. Launched in 2011, OU Kosher’s consumer product search website already enabled visitors to search for meat, dairy, pareve, kosher for Passover, pas yisroel, cholov yisroel and gluten free products. Rabbi Genack notes that as with Oreos, other foods confirmed as DE or yoshon by OU Kosher may lack official symbols on the product packaging due to the prohibitive costs to manufacturers of updating product labels, in the event that ingredients change. Because manufacturers can potentially alter their formulas and re-add milk to DE items, certain foods listed as DE on the consumer product search website are marked as “Subject to change. Please check on DE status every few months.” “A company with an OU-D certified product can add milk to the recipe in the future and it’s their right,” says OU Kosher Executive Rabbinic Coordinator Rabbi Moshe Zywica, who worked on the website additions together with OU Chief Technology Officer Jeremy Sanders. “Therefore, OU Kosher is saying, right now the item falls under DE according to our investigation, but don’t assume that

it will always be DE. The website is updated daily; people should recheck items’ status every few months where indicated, because even if the recipe changes, it will take time for the updated product to reach store shelves.” As for products confirmed as yoshon on OU Kosher’s consumer product site but which appear unmarked, Rabbi Zywica explains that many lack certification symbols because companies prefer not to have extra writing on their products beyond the small OU symbol. In Israel, all grain products are required to be yoshon, but whether this is required in Chutz la’Aretz is the subject of controversy. Rabbi Genack notes that it was Rabbi Ahron Soloveichik, zt”l, who spearheaded the movement of adherence to yoshon in North America. The concern for chodosh grain in the United States is a relatively recent phenomenon, Rabbi Genack explained. “Until the late 1960s, the U.S. had a huge wheat surplus,” he says, and therefore all grain that reached the market was yoshon. “During the Nixon era, there were massive grain sales to Russia and the U.S. no longer had that kind of surplus, so the issue of chodosh emerged. Rav Ahron Soloveichik believed very strongly in the importance of keeping yoshon even outside of Israel. While the number of people who kept yoshon was small in his day, it has become more widespread. Many others, however, continue to follow the lenient positions about chodosh in Chutz La’Aretz, such as that of the Bach and others.”

NOVEMBER 16, 2023 | The Jewish Home

The Jewish Home | NOVEMBER 16, 2023

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Emunah Announces New National President

munah of America (EOA) is pleased to announce the appointment of Careena Parker of Englewood, NJ, as its new National President. Careena is succeeding Debbie Bienenfeld of Cedarhurst, NY. Originally from Los Angeles, Careena has been a dedicated member of EOA for the past 25+ years, serving on the Executive and National Boards. She also chairs the Development Committee, has been a Co-chair for our National Dinner for several years, and has been on the host committees of many Emunah events. A true ambassador of Emunah’s work, Careena has visited Emunah’s various projects and children’s homes in Israel. With a proven commitment to Israel advocacy, a profound understanding of

the global Jewish community, and as an ardent Zionist, Careena will lead EOA into its next phase of growth, promoting Emunah’s mission and values on a national level. Careena also serves as the Vice President of the Mikvah of Englewood and is on the Women’s Board of the American Committee for Shaare Zedek Medical Center and on the Board of SAR Academy and High School. Additionally, she actively dedicates time to develop programming at Congregation Ahavath Torah. Apart from her impressive philanthropic work, Careena is the mother of Amanda Parker (Scott Stiefel), Matthew Parker, Katie Parker (Josh Gruenbaum), and Jenna Parker. Careena is married to

Drew Parker, who in addition to his activities with Kingsbrook Investments, is a founder and director of Cross River Bank. Join us in extending our warm welcome and mazel tov to Careena Parker in her new role. About Emunah: Emunah of America provides donors, advocates, and volunteers with an organization to support the most vulnerable at-risk children and families in Israel. For over 80 years, Emunah has driven social change by leading, mobilizing, and engaging volunteers to raise the necessary funds to change and impact lives. Emunah of America’s activities focus on social welfare programs aiming to strengthen the Jewish family, break the cycle of trauma and distress, support education, advance women’s status, provide

scholarships for American teens to volunteer in our residential summer programs, and promote Holocaust and anti-bias education in Israel and the United States. Our primary beneficiaries are Emunah Israel crisis and counseling centers and homes for children at risk.

Chai Lifeline’s Army of Volunteers Confront Global Jewish Trauma, Rising Antisemitism

n the face of the deadliest attack in Israel’s history and the surging increase in antisemitism across the globe, Chai Lifeline’s Crisis and Trauma Services team has risen to the challenge, confronting hate and terror with compassion and healing. The volunteers, comprised of more than 200 paraprofessionals, are providing critical psychosocial support to the worldwide Jewish community—one phone call at a time. Following the October 7 massacre, Chai Lifeline, the Jewish community’s leader in health and trauma support, swiftly mobilized its resources and expanded its services to assist all those impacted. Chai Lifeline’s 24hour crisis line, staffed by volunteers from diverse backgrounds and spanning multi-

ple countries, has become a lifeline for Jews across the globe, providing a much-needed sense of solidarity and sanctuary. “The global Jewish community is facing an unprecedented traumatic event and Chai Lifeline is there to help them get through it,” said Rabbi Simcha Scholar, CEO of Chai Lifeline. “Our dedicated team stands as a beacon of hope, emphasizing that amidst the adversity and turmoil, no one should feel alone.” In recent weeks, the team has fielded hundreds of calls, addressing a broad spectrum of concerns including guiding parents on managing their children’s anxiety, aiding Holocaust survivors with resurfaced trauma, supporting anxious parents of IDF soldiers,

and providing relief to victims of antisemitic assaults. The team is continuously trained by their director, Rabbi Dr. Dovid Fox, to handle the complexities of trauma with sensitivity and expertise, ensuring that every call for help is met with an informed and heartfelt response. In addition to the crisis line, Chai Lifeline’s Israel crisis response has included safely relocating Israeli families with children under active cancer treatment out of high-risk areas and providing them with counseling, programming, and support; distributing trauma resources and materials in multiple languages and offering psychological guidance to hundreds of thousands;

leading crisis interventions and consultations for thousands in global communities, schools, and organizations; and ensuring medical care continues uninterrupted for families whose medical hardships are further complicated by the ongoing situation. On Monday, December 4, the Crisis and Trauma Services team will be recognized at Chai Lifeline’s Evening of Unity at Pier Sixty, New York City. To learn more about the program and Chai Lifeline’s Israel crisis response, visit www.chailifeline.org/unity. For Chai Lifeline Israel crisis support and trauma resources, visit www.chailifeline. org/israel. To contact the Crisis helpline, call 855-3-CRISIS.

Touro University Stands Up For Israel

ouro students, deans and leaders turned out by the hundreds to show their support for Israel at Tuesday’s rally in Washington, DC. “Touro students came to show their solidarity with Israel, solidarity with the hostages, and solidarity with the American Israeli relationship,” said Touro President Dr. Alan Kadish. “We’re proud of our students. We’re proud of the activism. We’re proud of their show of support, and we’re proud of who they are as human beings.” Adriel Kohan, the Lander College for Men Student Government Vice President,

said, “The rally was a very impactful event for me. Seeing so many people, all united for the same cause, was very inspiring and increased my sensitivity to the situation in Israel. By bringing us to this event, Touro showed that it values the unity of

the Jewish people.” “Often, as a people who have been broken apart and spread across the globe, we can forget what it means to be an am echad, a united nation,” said Talia Stauber, President of the Student Government

at Touro’s Lander College for Women. “I came to Washington today to remember its meaning. I came, along with so many other Touro students, to ensure that Eicha Yashva Badad will never be asked again. Never again will our land, our people, suffer alone.”

NOVEMBER 16, 2023 | The Jewish Home

The Jewish Home | NOVEMBER 16, 2023

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Jewish Vets Visit HANC

ANC Elementary School in West Hempstead invited two very special guests to its weekly Rabbi Yehuda Kelemer z”l Shabbat Assembly. In commemoration of Veteran’s Day, Mr. Gary Glick, Department Commander of the Jewish War Veterans of America, and Mr. Ed Freeberg, veteran and husband of HANC’s math teacher Mrs. Leah Freeberg, gave a presentation to the students and staff about their experiences as Jewish soldiers serving in the American army. While many people are unaware that Jews actively served in the army dating back to the times of the Revolutionary War, the Jewish War Veterans Association was formed back in 1896 by sixty-three young Jewish soldiers during the Civil War. Over 7,000 Jews fought in the Civil War, and many more have served since then. The purpose of the Jewish War Veterans Association is to show the country that Jewish men and

women served their country, preserving the freedoms that we all enjoy here in America. Both men described their experiences serving in the army and facing antisemitism from their fellow soldiers. As a result, this strengthened their resolve not just to complete their service in the army, but to support Jewish veterans for the rest of their lives. In their roles at Post 652 of the JWV, they speak at various community organizations, JCCs, high schools and shuls. In addition, they are compiling individuals’ stories, so that their service to our country is preserved for future generations. They also petition the army to provide medals that the Jewish soldiers deserved but never received. Due to their efforts, one such local resident received his purple heart medal on his 97th birthday. Mr. Glick and Mr. Freedberg also assist fellow veterans in pursuing and receiving benefits

that they are entitled to. The members of Post 652 perform many services for the community. They collect food for food drives, deliver food to poor families, drive veterans to the Veterans Administration Hospital to receive medical care, and often perform as the Color Guard for community events, including Sunday afternoon’s Rally for Israel in Eisenhower Park. Since there are still many Jewish veterans living in nursing homes in the area, the members of the JWV Post 652 visit them so that they know that they are appreciated and not forgotten. When the war in Israel broke out, they collected medical equipment that was needed and arranged for the equipment to be sent to Israel. At the end of their presentation, the veterans provided all of the children with an American flag, as a reminder of our gratitude for our country and for the brave Jewish soldiers that served in pre-

vious wars. The children were happy to dance with their flags as they prepared for Shabbat, and the presentation they witnessed clearly made a deep impression on all who attended. HANC is grateful that Mr. Glick and Mr. Freeberg visited the school to enlighten the students on this important chapter in Jewish history.

Chai Lifeline Launches Inaugural Lubeck Fellowship in Jewish Nonprofit and Communal Leadership with 23 Exceptional Participants

hai Lifeline has announced the launch of its inaugural Lubeck Fellowship in Jewish Nonprofit and Communal Leadership, a groundbreaking initiative aimed at shaping the future leaders of the Jewish community. The program recently kicked off with an outstanding cohort of 23 dedicated and passionate participants, who have embarked on a transformative journey of leadership and community engagement. The Lubeck Fellowship, as part of Chai Lifeline’s Pam & Joe Lubeck and

Family National Volunteer Leadership Initiative, is designed to provide young men and women who have demonstrated unwavering dedication to volunteerism and community activism with a unique opportunity to engage with established leaders in the nonprofit sector, gain valuable insights, and acquire the skills necessary for future roles in Jewish communal leadership. The program features an intensive 8-session weekly virtual seminar that spans a wide array of topics, including

Jewish values and ethics in leadership, diverse leadership styles and strategies, organizational development in non-profit settings, community leadership and engagement, and much more. These sessions are led by renowned experts and speakers who generously share their knowledge and experiences with the Fellows. “In light of the difficult times we all face, particularly with what is happening in Israel, the need for strong leadership within the Jewish community has never been more imperative,” said Rabbi Simcha Scholar, CEO of Chai Lifeline. “Our community is facing unprecedented challenges and uncertainties. Now, more than ever, we need leaders who can navigate these complex waters. The young men and women of the Lubeck Fellowship are poised to do just that.” As they progress through the curriculum, the participants will not only develop leadership skills but also build lifelong

connections with fellow participants and established leaders in the nonprofit sector. “We are excited to embark on this journey with our Fellows, who represent the bright future of the Jewish community. Their passion, drive, and commitment to making a difference are evident, and we are confident that they will go on to accomplish remarkable things,” said Rabbi Ari Dembitzer, Director of the Lubeck Fellowship. The Lubeck Fellowship in Jewish Nonprofit and Communal Leadership is made possible through the generous support of the Lubeck family and underscores Chai Lifeline’s commitment to nurturing leadership talent within the Jewish community. For more information about the Lubeck Fellowship or to inquire about future opportunities, please visit www. chailifeline.org/fellowship.

Did you know? There are around 831 Costco warehouses worldwide, including in Mexico, Iceland, Japan, France, and China.

NOVEMBER 16, 2023 | The Jewish Home

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Intergenerational Day

The Jewish Home | NOVEMBER 16, 2023

There was an overflowing crowd at the Yeshiva Kol Torah Open House this past week

Rosh Chodesh Kislev at Ezra Academy

tudents in Lev Chana look forward to their Kindergarten Intergenerational Day, when their grandparents join them for a special morning filled

with activities and songs. The children are always very proud to spend quality time with their grandparents at school!

Assemblyman Ari Brown Visits Businessman Peter Tsadilas to Thank Him for Support of Israel

hile a percentage of the school headed down to DC to join the hundreds of thousands of Jews supporting Israel and protesting anti-Semitism, the remainder of the student body and faculty celebrated Rosh Chodesh Kislev with a seudah, tehilim, singing and divrei Torah. It was an inspirational day for everyone regardless of location.

Ezra Academy remains steadfast in their endeavor to keep Israel in the forefront of all that we do. Brachot, Tehillim, mitzvot, chessed, tzedakah, etc. all remain a major part of the day for Ezra students. As we continue to pray for a quick yeshuah, the amazing Ezra students continue to come up with amazing new ideas to spread, achdut, chessed and mitzvot.

Shaar Lev is Busy at HALB

he students in Shaar Lev joined HALB’s Kabbalah effort by taking on the mitzvah of kriat Shema al hamita in the zechut of soldiers in the IDF. Each student made a decorative Shema plaque for their room at home

to help them remember to say it every night. Shaar Lev students also had their own challah bake with their rebbeim and morot at HALB, and together they did the mitzvah of hafrashat challah.

ssemblyman Ari Brown (R-Cedarhurst) visited Peter Tsadilas, owner of the Golden Globe Diner in Huntington, to thank him for his steadfast support of Israel. Tsadilas recently put up a display of Israeli flags and posters calling for the release of Israeli hostages. In response, he faced threats and boycotts from some customers and DoorDash drivers, and three employees quit in protest. However, Tsadilas refused to back down. He responded by putting up even more Israeli flags and posters as well as a large sign reading “Greek Diners Stand With Israel.” Brown is the first Orthodox Jewish Republican elected to the Assembly and has stood against recent acts of antisemitism throughout the state. “In the face of adversity, Peter Tsadilas has shown courage, conviction and moral clarity. He is a true friend of Israel and the Jewish people,” Brown said. “When others tried to intimidate him, Peter stood strong. His unapologetic support for Israel serves as an example to all. I am proud to know there are leaders like Peter Tsadilas here in New York.” Tsadilas said he will not be cowed by threats or boycotts. “Israel is the only de-

mocracy in the Middle East and America’s greatest ally. I will always stand with Israel and the Jewish community, no matter what.” Jewish customers and other supporters of Israel have been flocking to the Golden Globe Diner to reward Tsadilas for his principled stand. Tsadilas said the outpouring of support has been deeply moving. “There is more that unites us than divides us. Together, we will stand up to hatred and continue fighting for the shared values of freedom and democracy.”

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Remi Solomon and Maya Shlomi set up a drink and snack stand on Sunday in Hewlett to raise money for United Hatzalah

YSZ High School for Girls Open House: A Night of Inspiration!

ast week, the HALB PTA organized an incredible challah bake for Israel. Morah Zukierman started the night off explaining the power of baking challah together, especially during these times. Hundreds of students, teachers and mothers said Tehillim and sang Acheinu before making their individual dough. Then, while waiting for the dough to rise, everyone came together for a beautiful Kumzitz led by Gary Wallin. It was an incredibly moving and powerful night.

BYAM Travels the World

he third grade at Bais Yaakov Ateres Miriam is traveling the world – virtually, that is. As part of their integrative social studies curriculum, the girls are going from place to place with their very own class-made passports. The girls spent the first few weeks learning about communities and map skills and began to think about their place in the world. Utilizing many fun tools such as the smartboard, the girls

are able to travel virtually to different parts of the world to learn a bit about what life is like in each country. Through informative books, the girls learn facts about each country they visit along with a fun cultural experience. Their visit to Mexico awarded them the opportunity to have a nacho party, while this past Thursday the girls enjoyed a tea party after visiting England!

he community is thrilled to share the incredible success of YSZ High School for Girls’ Open House held last Motzei Shabbos, November 11. The event was spectacular, drawing a remarkable turnout that filled the halls with warmth and enthusiasm. The evening began with enlightening speeches from esteemed speakers. Rabbi Aryeh Lebowitz started the evening with Tehillim and shared a profound d’var Torah, aptly connecting YSZ’s educational philosophy and reminding students about the power of women to make a difference. A highlight of the night was an inspiring speech from the menahelet, Mrs. Zerykier, who passionately conveyed the school’s theme, “From Head to Heart.” She pointed out that YSZ High School for Girls is not just an institution of rigorous academics; it is a place that nurtures the soul. The guiding philosophy of “From Head to Heart” emphasizes the holistic development of the girls, integrating academic excellence with spiritual growth

rooted in Torah values. The heart of any school lies in its dedicated educators. Teachers shone brightly at the Teachers Fair, where each had their own station. This interactive setup allowed parents and students to engage with the educators, fostering connections and providing insight into the vibrant learning environment at YSZ High School. Culinary delights added to the joy of the evening. Guests were treated to a spread of delicious food, creating an atmosphere of camaraderie and shared enjoyment. Students represented their school proudly, as ambassadors, museum docents, counselors, and public speakers. Empowered as leaders, they impressed visitors with their poise and enthusiasm. The Open House was not just an event; it was a celebration of the community. Parents, students, and teachers mingled, creating a sense of unity and shared commitment to the educational journey of the girls and to am Yisrael.

NOVEMBER 16, 2023 | The Jewish Home

HALB Challah Bake

The Jewish Home | NOVEMBER 16, 2023

Around the Community

Professional Development at HALB

ast week, HALB hosted a Professional Development Day for local educators. Over 500 teachers from

local schools including HAFTR, Har Torah, YCQ, and others joined together to collaborate and learn together.

Veterans Day Ceremony in Cedarhurst

ayor Benjamin Weinstock, together with the Board of Trustees of the Village of Cedarhurst and joined by members of the Lawrence-Cedarhurst American Legion Post 339 and John J. Oliveri VFW 1582, gathered on November 11th at the Cedarhurst Veteran’s Memorial Plaza to honor the brave men and women who served in the armed services of the United States. This day was dedicated to showing gratitude to our veterans who have courageously defended our freedom. Commander Syd Mandelbaum, a highly esteemed U.S. Air Force Reserve Veteran, presided over the program. Rabbi Mickey Edery initiated the proceedings with a heartfelt invocation. Following this, came Commander Miguel Martinez, Mayor Benjamin Weinstock, Trustee Daniel Plaut, TOH Councilwoman Missy Miller and Rabbi Mickey Edery, who stood in for Deputy Mayor and NYS Assemblyman Ari Brown. During Rabbi

Edery’s final remarks, he passionately shared the heartwarming news that Ari Brown would be selflessly donating his kidney to a veteran in dire need, touching the hearts of everyone present. Deacon Tom Costello, representing the RC Parishes of The Five Towns, concluded the event with a sincere benediction. Lawrence High School students, namely Sivan Laniado, Ryan Vairo, Leslie Melendez-Melgar, Danica Hance, Arbi Corbita, and Naraya Robinson, graced the occasion with a beautiful rendition of our National Anthem and God Bless the USA. To add a solemn touch, the band director, Brian Stabile, played a moving rendition of Taps. Commander Mandelbaum concluded the gathering by saying, “To all of our Veterans, we say to you, you are a part of that group of special people who, generation after generation, have dedicated themselves to building a nation that is stronger, freer and a little more perfect.”

YOSS’s “Mishmar Special,” an optional learning program for 7th and 8th graders, begins in North Woodmere

Assemblyman Charles D. Lavine Explains Democracy to Mercaz Academy Students

ercaz Academy students in the fourth, fifth, and sixth grades welcomed Assemblyman Charles D. Lavine to the school for a discussion about how government works as a preamble to student council elections. Assemblyman Lavine was thanked for his strong and vocal support for Israel in this turbulent time. In speaking with the students, he explained the role of elected officials in our democratic system as well as his own position as legislator. Assemblyman Lavine explained how American democracy innovated a new system of government, distinct from monarchies and theocracies. He explained that, when deciding how to vote on legislation, he makes it a point to listen and keep an open mind and encouraged student leaders to do the same. The discussion ended with students asking a wide range of questions, which Assemblyman Lavine graciously answered, providing an illuminating and educational introduction to Mercaz Academy’s own student council elections.

At Mercaz Academy, sixth graders ran for president as teams, preferring “co-presidents” to the president/vice president model. Fifth graders ran singly for two open secretary positions. The franchise was extended down to first grade this year, and students took careful notes on the candidates’ platforms as they spoke. All candidates addressed the situation in Israel, suggesting plans to support the state that is so important to the Jewish people. There were also several proposals regarding domestic policy, including additional raffles, field trips, homework passes, and a dunk tank for staff members. Voting took place on Monday, November 6, through a computerized system designed and monitored by Program Director Rabbi Moshe Rubel. The winners graciously thanked their competitors as well as their supporters, and all students in the fifth and sixth grades will take a seat on the student council under their newly elected leadership.

NOVEMBER 16, 2023 | The Jewish Home

The Jewish Home | NOVEMBER 16, 2023

NOVEMBER 16, 2023 | The Jewish Home

The Jewish Home | NOVEMBER 16, 2023

Around the Community

Recent Guest Speakers at Yeshiva Nishmas Hatorah

Reb Usher Yisroel Lissauer - The Mevakshei Hashem Rebbe of Bnei Brak

MTA Joins YU During This Eis Tzaara

av Hershel Schachter, shlita, issued a psak declaring Monday, November 13, the 29th of Cheshvan, being observed as a Yom Kippur Katan, a fast day to increase our tefilos during this difficult time. All MTA talmidim who were able, were asked to declare in Mincha on Sunday that they were taking this ta’anis upon themselves, as is customary. For talmidim for whom this was too much, many opted to fast until chatzos. With a regular day of Yeshiva, fasting becomes an additional challenge, but many talmidim took to heart the messages from their rebbeim of the need for us to be on the “spiritual front lines” and do all we can to increase our learning, our tefillos and our chesed. Our Beis Medrash Katan led by Rabbi Tanchum Cohen had a unique privilege to daven

the Yom Kippur Katan tefillos with hundreds of YU talmdim in the YU Glueck Beis Medrash. This was an amazing opportunity that only MTA talmidim are able to take part in. Rav Schachter’s psak is seen here, and we hope our tefillos will be answered l’tova.

Did you know? Mr. Bunim Laskin, Yeshiva alumnus/ founder & CEO of Swimply, who spoke on the importance of living a life of bitachon in the workplace

Reb Yossi Witman, IDF veteran who spoke on his experiences fighting in the Yom Kippur War and how it changed his life forever

The first Costco, known as Price Club, was started in an airplane hangar in 1976.

HAFTR High School 2023 Open House

his past Sunday, HAFTR High School welcomed a full house of prospective students and their parents from various communities, creating an atmosphere of excitement and anticipation. Registered attendees received folders filled with HAFTR High School literature and materials, setting the stage for a day of exploration and learning about the impressive offerings of the Yeshiva. The annual Open House served as a window into the inspiring academics, acclaimed limudei kodesh (Jewish studies), dynamic student life, and exuberant school spirit that define HAFTR. The event kicked off with engaging speeches by the administration and a student speaker. Rabbi Ira Wallach, Rosh Yeshiva of HAFTR High School, led a recitation of a chapter of Tehillim for Israel, emphasizing the enduring importance of Israel in our thoughts, especially during challenging times. Rabbi Wallach shared an inspiring Dvar Torah on the theme of hope, underlining the significance of education in securing the future of the

Jewish people. Dr. Joshua Wyner, the school’s principal, delivered a motivational message about harnessing energy to achieve growth and success. He emphasized HAFTR’s commitment to providing a holistic education that nurtures both academic and social-emotional well-being. Student speaker Kaitlin Pollack spoke passionately about HAFTR’s ability to create a personalized experience for each student. Sharing her own transformative journey, she highlighted the impactful relationships, diverse studies, and opportunities that shaped her into the person she is today. Ms. Naomi Lippman, Head of School, highlighted HAFTR High School’s unique academic program, co-curricular activities, and school culture. She showcased the real-world impact of HAFTR’s education, citing the recent accomplishments of HAFTR alumni on their college campuses. She urged prospective students to experience firsthand the academic excellence, meaningful Limudei Kodesh, and uplifting culture that defines HAFTR. Following the

speeches, a video created by the Director of Student Programming Ms. Ilona Diamond showcased the exemplary student body in academics, ruach, and achdut. Prospective students and parents then embarked on guided tours, exploring classrooms, meeting faculty, and learning about HAFTR’s nationally acclaimed academics (including its STEM program and Art Institute) and inspiring Limudei Kodesh. Potential students and parents had the opportunity to learn about student life, as well as how to achieve success and social and emotional well-being both in and out of the classroom. Parents had an opportunity to meet administrators and faculty to learn about specialized opportunities within HAFTR, while eighth graders connected with current students and recent graduates to learn about their positive experiences. The event concluded with a collation in the gym, where guests mingled, enjoyed refreshments, and engaged further with faculty and students, asking and answering questions about student clubs and activities, ath-

letics, and college and Israel guidance. Impressed by the academic excellence and the opportunity to mold well-rounded students, both parents and students expressed strong interest in joining the HAFTR community. Applications to HAFTR High School can be submitted online at HAFTR.org/ Admissions. For further inquiries, contact Mrs. Michelle Halon, Admissions Director, at 516-569-3370 ext.196 or mihalon@haftr.org, or Mrs. Batsheva Reinhart, High School Admissions Coordinator, at 516-569-3807 ext.726 or bareinhart@haftr.org.

NOVEMBER 16, 2023 | The Jewish Home

The Jewish Home | NOVEMBER 16, 2023

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MAY Donates $10K to United Hatzalah

ue to the tremendous success of the 6th Annual FM Home Loans MAY 5K and its unexpected juxtaposition with the war in Eretz Yisroel, it was clear to the Hanhalla and students of Mesivta Ateres Yaakov that a portion of the proceeds be given to help our brothers and sisters in Eretz Yisroel. This week, the Rosh HaYeshiva, Rabbi Mordechai Yaffe, together with the Student Government, presented a $10,000 check to United Hatzalah of Israel. Michael Yudien, the Long Island representative of United Hatzalah, accepted the generous donation on behalf of the organization and described to the talmidim United Hatzalah’s response to the horrific attack on October 7, as well as the ongoing challenges that the volunteers are

facing on a daily basis. United Hatzalah of Israel is the largest independent, non-profit, fully volunteer emergency medical service organization that provides the fastest and free emergency medical first response throughout Israel. When the war started in the south of Israel, United Hatzalah volunteers were first on the front lines, many living in the communities that were attacked, and treated injured civilians, set up a field hospital and transported injured to the hospital. They are in need of additional trauma kits and protective vests in order to save more lives. Rabbi Yaffe commented, “In considering this presentation, aside from supporting this vital organization for Klal Yisroel, it is also an important lesson in the chinuch of our children.”

JSL Week 7 Recap

t was another amazing week at the JSL by FM Home Loans, as the season inches closer to the playoffs the competition has ramped up. With the league’s tremendous success, registration for the upcoming winter season has been the largest yet and some divisions are already closed with others closing very soon. Registration and more info at 5TJSL.com JSL Juniors The boys’ skills are greatly improving under the guidance of our amazing JSL coaches. K/P Hockey: Dovid Goldman had the game-winning goal for Town Appliance in their win over Posh Home + Bath. Yoel Nagelsberg had two goals and several shot blocks to help VirtAir beat Bright Futures 3 to 2. Game MVP Netanel Eis led Pinit Realty to a shutout victory over PIP Printing. Joseph Feldman put up 6 shots on goal in the second half to lead John’s Automotive to victory. K/P Soccer: Yaakov Grossman led the team in scoring and showed great hustle as Target Exterminating defeated Simcha Day Camp 5 to 3. The dynamic duo of Ari Jaroslawicz and Eli Chovev led Island Roofing’s explosive offense in their victory Sunday. 1st Hockey: Zahav Asset Management beat PinIt Realty 3 to 2 with tremendous goals scored by Yehuda Rendler and Nissi Berman. Harry Gertner had great defense and hustle as 5 Towns Central beat Hewlett Auto Body 7 to 3.

1st/2nd Football Adventure Media and Westwood Realty tied in a nailbiter. Binyomin Katz and Yosef Meisel both reeled in highlight-worthy TD catches in the game. Shlomo Chaim Erlich had a nice catch across the middle and Issac Belsky and Asher Malone scored 7 touchdowns combined to help PIP Printing beat Target Exterminating 7 to 2. Basketball 3rd/4th: Meir Jacobowitz nearly had a TRIPLE-DOUBLE (8 points, 10 rebounds, and 10 blocks) for Traditions as they barely came away with the 26-23 win in an exciting game versus Miller Realty. Aron Walkin had 5 steals and 8 points for Maidenbaum as they defeated King David’s Contractors 19 to 14. Moshe Hildeshaim had 16 points and 10 steals for I Am Your Chef in their win over Newman Dental. 5th-7th: Shaul Nathan of Island Roofing had an amazing defensive effort, amassing 6 steals and scored multiple baskets as well to help his team win 38 to 33 against a very formidable 4SeasonsAC team. Yosef Asher had many key buckets to help Wieder Orthodontics beat Sliced in a close game, 24 to 22. Avraham Opoczynski also had an amazing layup in the victory. Hockey 2nd/3rd: I Am Your Chef was leading 4-3 with very few seconds on the clock remaining. Insight Optiks had the ball in I Am Your Chef’s zone, threatening to tie the game but Asher Grabie was able to grab hold of the ball and clear it as the

clock hit zero, giving his team the win. Marciano Pediatric Dentistry beat Built By Nate 9 to 2 behind 2 goals from Asher Lauer. Shlomo Riech scored multiple times to help Arielle Rosenblatt Interiors beat SDF Architect 6 to 2. 4th/5th: It was a close game heading into the third period, but Dovid Lifshitz blocked all shots on net from Card Arcade and Tamir Law scored multiple times to pull away and put another W in the win column. Posh Home + Bath came out early and dominated the whole game defeating AutoClick CarKeys 8 to 2. Nachum Dicker had an amazing wrist shot from the point to give Miller Reality the lead and ultimately the victory over JNT. Spencer Zeitlin had a beautiful wraparound goal for JNT in the loss. 6th/8th: Wieder Orthodontics pulled away late behind Ari Mandel’s 5 goal night to defeat Extreme Vent Cleaning 10-3. JNT got out to a 8-1 lead heading into the third period but 925 sterling made a furious comeback with 5 straight goals to start the third period, including 4 from Hunter Zeitlen. But 8-6 was as close as it got as Betzalel Ingber netted a shot with 3 minutes left to end the comeback and take the win 9-6. Men’s Basketball Ikey Cohen scored 9 threes in Insight Optiks 70-64 win over I Am Your Chef. Alon Jacobowitz was automatic Sunday night, helping JNT put up 72 points in their win over Wieder Orthodontics. Rabbi Akiva Schrier scored 13 in the first half to help Posh Home + Bath defeat Rita’s.

Game of the Week In 2nd/3rd grade Hockey, Believe & Achieve dueled it out with Island Roofing as both teams scored 3 goals, sending the game into OT. In the shootout, Dovid Perl made an incredible save for Believe & Achieve. Dovid Gerson then calmly scored his shootout shot. Game MVPS: Yaakov Grossman, Dovid Goldman , Yoel Nagelsberg, Netanel Eis, Joseph Feldman , Yosef Meisel, Binyamin Katz, Menachem Samuel, Ari Davidowitz, Isaac Belsky, Asher Malone, Gavi Stefansky, Nachum Zev Dessler, Meir Jacobowitz, Aron Walken, Avi Flegman, Akiva Levine, Dovid Lifshitz, Moshe Hildeshaim, Usher Feldman, Tzvi Taub, Shauly Nathan, Yosef Asher, Gavriel Chafetz, Akiva Rabinowitz, Carter Zeitlin, Ari Mandel, Akiva S, Harry Gertner, Shlomo Reich

NOVEMBER 16, 2023 | The Jewish Home

The Jewish Home | NOVEMBER 16, 2023

Op- d

Impressions from a Rally-Goer By B. Friedman

fter a large event, I’m usually pretty confident that how I feel about the event is how most others feel about it as well. You can tell when you have a moving experience, that others were moved as well, and you can tell when an event doesn’t live up to your expectations and that others feel the same way. But after the rally in Washington, D.C., this week, I have no idea how others felt about it. This may be because a lot of it depended on where you were standing and a lot of it depended on what your outlook on the event was going in. Personally, I felt that this rally likely served its intended purposes but was also really sad, from a spiritual standpoint. On Monday night, I stayed at a hotel around 20 minutes out of Washington and drove into the center of town at around 7 A.M. on Tuesday morning. I parked at an all-day garage (35$) around a five-minute walk from the Capitol. Why did I take such a crazy risk and not park at RFK Stadium and walk 3 miles? For the same reason that after visiting day upstate I drive straight home and it takes me less than 3 hours – despite our unfounded beliefs that “after visiting day the highways are clogged…” “Oh, don’t drive into Washington, it’s going to be gridlock!” Nah, it’s a big city, and they have these rallies all of the time – just another day for most people in D.C. Upon arrival in D.C. on Tuesday morning, I met up with a friend and we hopped on Lime scooters (D.C. has them all over and they are tons of fun to scoot around on) and headed to the White House for Beri Weber’s Hallel. It was nice to daven with a few hundred Jews, but I’m not sure what the point was— if it was meant to get President Biden’s attention, I don’t think he really knows the difference between the White House and the White Shul anyway. We then zipped over to the rally site at the National Mall. We had some rally paraphernalia, and many of the Washington regulars, on their way to work, gave us approving glances or even said, “Good luck today!” It was nice to see.

During the rally, the front half was reserved for people who had blue bracelets; those were generally given to students and large groups. The back half was for everyone else. We managed to get in towards the front, near the stage. Most people in the area were groups of students from various Hillel Houses and other college and high school organizations. Although there were a few yarmulkes, most of the people in our area were not religious. We stood near a group of secular men who came in from Arizona and a group of secular women from Bethesda, Maryland. It felt good to shmooze with them all, knowing that to them I represented the Orthodox community, which they may have heard about but were never really exposed to much. When the rally started, it felt like there was a deep spiritual void. It seems like everyone was invited but G-d. Speaker after speaker spoke passionately about the horrors of what happened and the need to bring home the hostages, but nobody mentioned prayer or uttered the word “G-d.” I think that the first time G-d was mentioned was when Van Jones (why he was there? not sure) said, “G-d willing.” I understand that this was a nondenominational event, but we have 240 hostages deep underground in Hamas tunnels. Would it be so offensive for 300,000 Jews to say a prayer together? I

don’t care if it is in English, Spanish or Japanese; do it for the hostages! Thankfully, during Ishay Ribo’s performance, he spoke beautifully in Hebrew about the need to daven and how we need the galus to end. I interpreted what he said to the people around me as they didn’t speak Hebrew, and they were visibly moved. This further highlighted to me what a missed opportunity it was for the rally to not speak more to the heart of all the gathered Jews. Thankfully, Ishay Ribo said a kapital Tehillim and asked everyone to say it with him. A cantor also then said the Mishebeirach. This eased my sadness a bit, but it still hurt me how scared or ignorant most Jews are of prayer and evoking Hashem. In hindsight, would I go to the rally again now that I know that there were speeches by “celebrities” and no focus on spirituality? I think I would. Firstly, although I would have done things a lot differently, it is important to understand what the objective of the rally was. The primary objective was to show up in big numbers to give political cover to the politicians in Washington. To that end, every body mattered. The second objective seems to have been to shore up and encourage thousands of mostly secular college kids who are on the frontlines of the ideological assault on

Israel. For those teens, it was important to hear speeches about “strength and resolve.” It was important to entertain them and even give them the ability to share TikTok videos of Matisyahu singing about world peace. No, that didn’t do anything for me, but I get my courage from other places and I am fighting different battles. Just like these secular college kids can’t understand or relate to “my frontline,” it’s hard for me to fully understand theirs. But it’s important to acknowledge and validate that and give them the support that they need. Perhaps the most important reason that I am still happy that I went to the rally is because I believe that frum Jews made a kiddush Hashem to the most important demographic—secular Jews. While the Israeli disco music was playing during waiting time (why would they play that? This is a very grave time in Klal Yisroel. Answer: You’re not a college kid. They practically sleep with their earbuds in; this is the soundtrack of their world), many frum Yidden had their Tehillims out and were silently davening. Considering that there was no kol isha or any other blatant halachic violations, it was a nice opportunity to make a positive impression on secular Jews. Make no mistake about it, they noticed us and were moved by our presence. Despite that, I felt sad at the spiritual emptiness in the larger Jewish world. If not for Ishay Ribo and the Mishebeirach, there would not have been a prayer uttered for the 240 hostages. We did what we had to do by going, but I would certainly appreciate another large-scale event that focuses more on tefillah and spiritual inspiration. Hopefully, in our own Orthodox community, we can put aside meaningless differences, and bring our men, women and children to tear down the Heavens for our hostages and their petrified families. If we do what we have to do, we will greet Moshiach together with every person who was at the rally and the rest of Klal Yisroel, and we will proudly and joyously declare, “Hashem Elokeinu Hashem Echad!”

NOVEMBER 16, 2023 | The Jewish Home

The Jewish Home | NOVEMBER 16, 2023

Around the Community

More than 290,000 Jews Joined in the March for Israel Rally in D.C.

DRS Students at the Rally

Around the Community

NOVEMBER 16, 2023 | The Jewish Home

MTA Students at the Rally

Around the Community

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SKA Students at the Rally

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NOVEMBER 16, 2023 | The Jewish Home

HALB Students at the Rally

The Jewish Home | NOVEMBER 16, 2023

1. *

TJH

Centerfold

Stages of Self-Checkout

The Overconfident Stride: Approaching the self-checkout with the confidence of a seasoned pro, convinced this

You Never Learn, Do You?: When you feel like a failure because for the fourth time you forgot to put the item in

will be the smoothest transaction of your life.

the bagging area after scanning it.

Avoiding the Gaze: When you notice that this is harder than it looks and now the self-checkout manager is

gazing at you… “You see, being a cashier is not as easy as you thought!”

Getting over Shame: When you call over the self-check-

The Philosophical Contemplation: Why do they insist that every item be placed in the bagging area? Why do

they care where I put my item?

Struggling to Lift: Being really dramatic as you make believe that you are trying to lift the case of seltzer out of the

out manager and concede, “Um, I really have no clue how

cart…hoping that the self-checkout manager comes with her

I’d even begin to check out these cucumbers”…and watching

remote gun and shoots the bar code for you (and once she’s at

in amazement how she punches the button that has a cucum-

it, maybe she will just scan everything else in your cart…this

ber on it. Aha! So that’s how it’s done!

way you can avoid the dreaded bagging area altogether).

Bagging Area Blues: Hearing that dreaded “Unexpected item in the bagging area” and

contemplating whether you should just call it quits and start over at the next self-checkout kiosk.

* *

The Victory Beep: Proudly grabbing the receipt and feeling like you just conquered the self-checkout world! Self-Checkout Olympics: Giving a very slight smile to the person using the self-checkout lane near you…

“Don’t worry, I’ve been there, too. Eventually, you will get the hang of it and make it to the receipt-grabbing stage!”

Riddle Me This There are two of these in a corner, one in a room, zero in a house, but one in a shelter. What is it? Answer: The letter “R.”

How much do you know about this iconic address, 160 years after it took place on November 19, 1863? 1. How long did President Lincoln speak while delivering the Gettysburg Address? a. Under 2 minutes b. 10 minutes c. 47 minutes d. 1 hour and 40 minutes 2. Famed orator Edward Everett of Massachusetts preceded Lincoln’s address. How long did he speak for? a. Under 2 minutes b. 7 minutes c. 14 minutes d. 2 hours 3. Where was the Gettysburg Address delivered? a. Washington D.C. b. Philadelphia c. Gettysburg, Pennsylvania d. Richmond, Virginia

4. What is the famous opening phrase of the Gettysburg Address? a. “In the course of human events” b. “Now we are engaged in a great civil war” c. “Four score and seven years ago” d. “We hold these truths to be self-evident” 5. An editorial in the PatriotNews of Harrisburg, about 35 miles northeast of Gettysburg, criticized Lincoln’s address and said they were “silly remarks” that deserved a “veil of oblivion.” When did the newspaper apologize for that editorial? a. Two weeks after the address b. When the Civil War ended c. When Lincoln was killed d. In 2013

You Gotta be Kidding Me! Moishe was 100, and his wife Leah was 98. A young man asked Moishe what his secret to good health was. Moishe re-

6. President Lincoln was not feeling well on the day of the ceremony in Gettysburg. What was wrong with him? a. He had smallpox. b. He was nauseous from the train ride. c. He was suffering from stressinduced headaches. d. He had the flu. Answers 1-A 2-D 3-C 4-C 5-D 6-A Wisdom Key 5-6 correct: Let’s give you a stovepipe hat. 2-4 correct: What happened? You left halfway through? 0-1 correct: Drank too much in town, Yanky Doodle?

rel, the loser has to walk for three miles. So I’ve been walking three miles every day for past 75 years!” The impressed young man asked, “But how come your wife is very healthy as well?”

plied, “I’ll tell you my secret. I’ve been

Moishe answered, “Well, for 75 years, every single day,

married for 75 years. I promised my wife

she has been following me to make sure I really walk the

when we got married that when we quar-

full three miles!”

NOVEMBER 16, 2023 | The Jewish Home

Gettysburg Address Trivia

The Jewish Home | NOVEMBER 16, 2023

Torah Thought

Parshas Toldos By Rabbi Berel Wein

he troubling question that has persisted throughout the ages of biblical commentary on this week’s parsha is: What is Yitzchak thinking with regard to giving the blessings and heritage of Avraham to Eisav? Basically, the comments and explanations fall into two categories. One of them is that Yitzchak is fooled by Eisav and is really unaware of his true nature and wanton behavior. Rashi, quoting Midrash, interprets that Eisav “haunted” his father with his pious speech and cunning conversation. Yitzchak

is fooled by Eisav and believes that Eisav, the man of the world and the physically powerful figure, is better suited to carry on Avraham’s vision than is Yaakov, the more studious and apparently more simple of the brothers. The other opinion, more popular among the later commentators to the Torah, is that Yitzchak is aware of the shortcomings of behavior and attitude of his elder son. His desire to give the blessings to Eisav is due to his wish to redeem and save his son and to enable Eisav to turn

his life around and become a worthy heir to the traditions of his father and grandfather. He thinks that by somehow giving the blessings to Eisav, Yaakov will not really suffer any disadvantage in his life’s work, while Eisav will find his way back to holiness through the blessings that he has now received. These two divergent attitudes towards the wayward child in Jewish families is one that is enacted daily in Jewish family life. Later Yitzchaks either willfully allow them-

been different in behavior and attitude, belief and mission? However, from the words of the later prophets of Israel, especially those of Ovadiah, it appears to be clear that G-d somehow concurred with Rivkah’s policy and holds Eisav to be redeemable only in the very long run of history and human events. The verdict seems to be that one must be cleareyed and realistic about the painful waywardness and misbehavior of enemies of Yaakov, be they from within or without

The verdict seems to be that one must be cleareyed and realistic about the painful waywardness and misbehavior of enemies of Yaakov, be they from within or without our immediate family and milieu.

selves to be deluded regarding the behavior and lifestyle of children or they are aware of the problem and attempt to solve it with a giving nature and a plethora of blessings. Rivkah, Eisav’s mother, is not fooled by her son’s apparently soothing words nor does she believe that granting him blessings will somehow accomplish any major shift in his chosen lifestyle. To a great measure, she adopts a policy of triage, saving Yaakov and blessing him while thus abandoning Eisav to his own chosen wanton ways. The Torah does not record for us the “what if” scenario – what if Eisav had received the blessings; would he then have

our immediate family and milieu. There are many painful choices that need to be made within one’s lifetime and especially in family relations. There are few pat answers to varying and difficult situations. Perhaps that is why the Torah itself does not delve too deeply into the motives of Yitzchak and Rivkah but is content merely to reflect the different emotional relationships each had with their two very different sons. The Torah emphasizes the role that human emotions play in our lives and does not consign all matters to rational thought and decision-making. Shabbat shalom.

NOVEMBER 16, 2023 | The Jewish Home

The Jewish Home | NOVEMBER 16, 2023

From the Fire Parshas Toldos

Something More By Rav Moshe Weinberger Adapted for publication by Binyomin Wolf

recently thought about a seemingly incomprehensible pasuk in the parsha. Yitzchak, the tzaddik who barely had a foothold in this world after he was bound and ready to give his life as a sacrifice to Hashem, says to his older son Eisav (Bereishis 27:3-4), “Now, lift up your tools, your sword, and your bow, and go out to the field and trap game for me and make me delicacies like I love and bring them to me and I will eat so that I may bless you before I die.” How could Yitzchak, who was barely connected to the physical world, say Eisav should bring him “delicacies like I love”? That is what Yitzchak loves? The rivalry between Yaakov and Eisav ran very deep. Rashi says on the pasuk (ibid. 25:22), “And the children struggled within her,” that “they were struggling with one another and fighting over the inheritance of two worlds.” Chazal teach (Tana D’vei Eliyahu Zuta 19) that Yaakov and Eisav reached a negotiated compromise: “At that time, Eisav took this world, and Yaakov took the World to Come.” Chazal do not treat this agreement as some sort of hyperbolic device. They take it so seriously that the Midrash relates the following regarding an event many years later, “When Yaakov came from Lavan’s house and Eisav saw Yaakov’s children, slaves, and maidservants, Eisav said to Yaakov, ‘My brother, did you not say to me that you would take the World to Come? Where did you get all of this money? You are using this world like me!’” Eisav expected to find that Yaakov was impoverished, so he had a good question. Aren’t we supposed to have no portion in this physical world? There is a fundamental teaching by

Rav Yechiel Yaakov Weinberg, the Sridei Aish, zt”l, that is very helpful in understanding this question. The Sridei Aish borrows the terminology from the word “tune – taam,” which refers to the tune we use when reading the Torah. There is the lower tune (taam tachton) and higher tune (taam elyon). The lower tune is used for most of the year, and the higher tune is used when reading the Aseres HaDibros – the Ten Commandments. Noting the fact that the word for “tune – taam” also means “taste,” “reason” and “meaning,” the Sridei Aish says that the lower tune refers to the taste and enjoyment one feels from things in this world, and the higher tune is the deeper reason, meaning, or depth behind things of this world. Eisav, and his progeny, are satisfied with the lower tune, the physical, emotional, or intellectual enjoyment found in worldly things. This might be a sizzling steak and cold beer in front of a

football game. Or it could be a visit to the Metropolitan Museum of Modern Art, the symphony, or a great work of literature or philosophy. The geshmak – enjoyment – he finds in those things is enough for him. He can fully connect with these things. A Jew can also try to throw himself into these things. He may believe, even until a few moments before he leaves the world, that the lower tune was all he needed to feel fulfilled. But at that last moment of his life, somewhere deep inside, he realizes that there was a higher tune, a deeper reason for his life that he never connected with, that remained hidden during his lifetime. A person who has only connected with the lower tune cannot understand how a Jew can find meaning for his life, not to mention a delicious taste, in the study of Gemara, Rashi, and Tosafos. And while a Jew who lives for a higher plane of existence may work, have a home and even enjoy a football game,

he cannot understand how anyone could find their entire meaning and reason for existing in those things. He knows that (Devarim 8:3) “man does not live on bread alone. Rather, man lives on everything that comes from the mouth of G-d.” He knows from personal experience what Dovid HaMelech meant when he said (Tehillim 34:9), “Taste and see that Hashem is good.” Eisav was upset and jealous when he saw that Yaakov was not living in poverty. He had no idea that living for the higher tune, living for a deeper meaning, does not mean deprivation in this world. He did not know that it simply means not living for this world even as one lives in this world. The division Yaakov and Eisav made in their youth meant that one would live to eat, while the other would merely eat to live. But eating to live does not mean that one must starve. It only means that one lives for something much deeper and more sublime than eating. Eisav could not tolerate that Yaakov was able to taste something otherworldly in a piece of Shabbos fish right here in this world. It once happened on a hot summer day in July 1866 that the fourth Rebbe of Lubavitch, Rav Shmuel, known as the Rebbe Maharash, zy”a, was sitting and learning in a shaded trellis in the garden adjacent to his home. His two sons, five-year-old Sholom Dov Ber, who would become the fifth Rebbe of Lubavitch, the Rebbe Rashab, zy”a, and six-year-old Zalman Aharon, who would become the tzaddik known as the Raza, zy”a, were playing nearby. The two of them, little Sholom Dov Ber and Zalman Aharon, were having a debate regarding the difference between a Jews and

“Yes,” Bentzion replied. “Did you eat well?” Bentzion answered, “What does ‘well’ mean? Baruch Hashem, I am full.” The Rebbe then asked him, “And why do you eat?” “So that I may live.” “But,” the Rebbe asked, “why do you want to live?”

Ivan, who had grown up among Jewish people, spoke Yiddish perfectly. When he arrived, the Rebbe Rashab asked him, “Did you eat today?” “Yes.” “Did you eat well?” “Yes.” “And why,” the Rebbe asked, “do you eat?”

He had no idea that living for the higher tune, living for a deeper meaning, does not mean deprivation in this world.

Bentzion paused for a moment, a tear fell from his eye, he sighed, and then answered, “To be a Jew and do what G-d wants.” The Rebbe thanked Bentzion for coming and asked him to summon Ivan the coachman, who was not Jewish, on his way out.

“So that I may live.” “And why do you want to live?” “To take a swig of vodka and have a bite to eat,” replied Ivan. “Thank you,” the Rebbe said, “you may go.” Unlike Eisav thought, when he expected to find Yaakov Avinu wallowing

in poverty, the difference between a Jew and a non-Jew is not entirely apparent until the very last question, “And why do you want to live?” Both of them may have a portion in this world. The difference lies in the meaning behind one’s involvement in this world. Is this world an end unto itself? Or is it a means to something much richer and deeper? A Jew must constantly come back to the why and not live for the what. May each of us merit to work on refocusing our lives on the higher tune, the more sublime meaning in the physical and emotional blessings, objects, and activities of this world. I pray that with the joy on our faces as we live for something deeper than earthly life, we will merit to see “When Hashem returns His people to Tzion, we will be like dreamers. Then our mouths will be filled with laughter and our tongues with joyous song” (Tehillim 126:2) with the coming of Moshiach, may he arrive very soon! 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.

NOVEMBER 16, 2023 | The Jewish Home

non-Jews. The older brother, Zalman Aharon, maintained that Jews were different from non-Jews because they are a “wise and understanding people” (Devarim 4:6) who could study much Torah, both revealed and hidden, and daven with great attachment – deveikus. Little Dov Ber challenged this assertion: “But this is only true of those Jews who learn and daven. What about Jews who are unable to study and who do not pray with deveikus? How are they different from a non-Jew?” Zalman Aharon had no answer to this challenge. Their sister told the Rebbe Maharash about the debate, and the Rebbe called the boys over. He then asked little Dov Ber to call Bentzion to join them in the trellis. Bentzion was a servant in the Rebbe’s home who could barely read Hebrew and mispronounced almost every word. Still, he said the entire book of Tehillim every day, davened three times per day in shul, and was careful to be in shul whenever Ein Yaakov, a compilation of the stories and ethical teachings from the Gemara, was being taught. The Rebbe asked Bentzion, “Did you eat today?”

The Jewish Home | NOVEMBER 16, 2023

Delving into the Daf

Breaking Point By Rabbi Avrohom Sebrow

he Chasam Sofer says that studying Seder Nezikin can save a person from coming to harm, both physical and financial. If someone, chas v’shalom, has a harsh heavenly decree against him, that decree can be fulfilled by just learning the laws of damages, instead of actually coming to harm. Studying Seder Nezikin can therefore be a powerful source of salvation for Klal Yisrael. It is therefore fortunate that at a time when Klal Yisrael needs salvation, we are studying Bava Kama, the first maseches of Nezikin. Hashem should send us yeshuos b’mheirah. • • • The Gemara (Bava Kama 17b) says that if an object is thrown from a roof but someone hits it with a stick in midflight, breaking it before it lands, Rabbah says the hitter is exempt from paying restitution to the owner. Rabbah reasons that the hitter broke an object that was already halachically broken. True, it still is physically intact, but since it is destined to break, it is already considered “broken.” And one cannot be obligated to pay restitution for damage to an already broken object! It would seem that the person who threw the item off the roof is the one who is responsible for breaking it and should be obligated to pay. Indeed Rashi (17b) says that this is the case. In fact, that is the very reason the Gemara mentioned Rabbah’s statement. The Gemara is trying to prove the concept of basar mei’ikara azlinan—the determination of damages goes according to the beginning [of events leading up to the damage]. When an object was set in motion to be damaged, we consider it damaged from the time the event starts. The Gemara is trying to prove that if an animal kicks an object, it is considered broken from the time it is kicked, as a corollary of the case of a person who throws an object. The upshot is that if someone tosses a crystal vase, for example, from a rooftop, the vase is considered “broken” from the

time it is thrown. If someone else then smashes it with a baseball bat before it hits the ground, the batter has smashed a vase that was already halachically busted. However, Tosfos raise the following point. What if instead of throwing the vase itself, a brick was thrown at a glass vase? Would the vase be considered broken from the time the brick was launched? Tosfos prove from the Gemara that in this last case, the vase would not be considered broken until the brick actually hit it. If a rock was thrown at a window, the window would not be considered broken until the rock actually shattered it. Consequently, if someone smashed the window before the rock hit it, he would be obligated to pay full restitution to the owner. Tosfos say it is a sevara peshutah –simple reasoning – to differentiate between the two cases of throwing the vase itself and throwing something at the vase. It is so “simple” that commentators have spent the last few hundred years trying to figure out what the reasoning is! (This is clear proof of niskatnu ha’doros.) Many meforshim (Talmid HaRashba, Bach, et al.) offer the following explanation: An object cannot have a change in status if nothing was done to it. The kitch-

en window is the same before the ball was thrown and after the ball was thrown (but before contact). How can it be considered broken when nothing about the window has changed? However, in the case of the vase being tossed from the roof, a change was made to the vase itself. It was put into motion on a destructive course. True, it is currently still intact, but it’s flying towards the ground. Since there was something done to the vase itself, it can have a halachic status change and can be considered broken. (Do not try to understand this as pure logic. According to these meforshim, in both cases, the odds of the window breaking and the vase breaking are 100%. But Torah sevara tells us to differentiate between the two cases.) The pasuk (Esther 6:12) says that after Haman led Mordechai through the streets, he went to his house “aveil va’chaphui rosh.” The Gemara in Megillah explains that Haman’s daughter thought that her father was riding on the horse and that Mordechai was leading him. She poured refuse on top of the person leading the horse. However, Haman looked up, and his daughter realized her mistake and jumped from the roof. The

pasuk is referring to this when it says “aveil,” mourning; Haman was mourning the loss of his daughter. “Chaphui rosh” means his head was covered in refuse. However, the events are out of order. The pasuk should have said, “chaphui rosh va’aveil.” After all, first the refuse hit Haman’s head and only afterwards did his daughter die. The answer is that when an object is thrown at something, the target (such as the window) is not considered broken until it actually gets hit. However, when a fragile object is thrown, it is considered damaged right away. When Haman’s daughter jumped from the roof to harm herself, she was halachically considered dead as soon as she left the roof. However, Haman himself was not considered hit until the refuse actually reached him. According to this p’shat, you would have to say that Haman’s daughter realized her mistake while the refuse had not yet reached her father and that she still had time to fall (or jump). This vort on the Megillah is said in the name of the Rogochover Gaon. The Ketzos HaChoshen explaining Rashi on 10b assumes that the Shulchan Aruch (CM 418:10) argues on Tosfos. The Shulchan Aruch rules that if someone started a fire that was destined to destroy a haystack, that haystack is considered halachically burnt. Therefore, even if someone added fuel to the fire, it is of no consequence. The person who lit the fire must pay full damages. Even though nothing was done to the haystack, the Shulchan Aruch still rules it is considered already consumed from the flames of the fire. The Shulchan Aruch will have to explain the pasuk in Megillah differently!

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.

NOVEMBER 16, 2023 | The Jewish Home

The Jewish Home | NOVEMBER 16, 2023

Headlines

Halacha

Kerria Lacca By Rabbi Yair Hoffman

he lies at the heart of the most controversial issues that have hit the chareidi World since the mid-sixties. Satmar and the rabbanim in Lakewood, New Jersey, would like nothing better than to see her go away. The same is true with the Rabbanut of Israel and the Eida HaChareidis in Yerushalayim. The Rabbanut has even barred her from entering the country. At least two local Five Towns-Far Rockaway synagogues have forbidden her entry. Yet throughout America, she is welcomed and loved almost everywhere. Who is Kerria Lacca? Where does she come from? More pertinently, why has she inspired such abhorrence and debate? Let us start at the beginning. Kerria Lacca started off in the jungles of southeast Asia where she first found her home. Kerria Lacca, by the way, is a small female beetle – more commonly called the lac beetle — of shellac fame. She is found covering numerous foods — particularly chocolates, Mike and Ikes, cinnamon flavored Hot Tamales, and shiny fruits. (Some apple suppliers use shellac as the wax while others use Carnauba wax — which is not beetle-based.)

The Process Farmers in southeast Asia and in Mexico obtain sticks of Kerria Lacca eggs

that are ready to hatch and attach these sticks to trees that are to be infested. The beetles hatch and colonize the branches of the host trees. Let us watch her for a few minutes. There she stands inserting herself into these branches in small, cavernous tunnels, sucking out the sap and some bark for sustenance. Soon, she will begin secreting a much sought after resin in order to traverse the branches of the tree. The resin is called sticklac. There are 150 Kerra Lacca beetles per square inch, after they hatch. The resin is collected by workers. It is heated and filtered. Body parts and bark parts are removed. The end product is known as shellac. Alcohol is added to it, and it becomes an ingredient in many food grade glazes. This glaze is placed on thousands of products — including candies, chocolates, and fresh waxed fruit. The glaze is actually made out of sugar and gum arabic, but the shine doesn’t last too long. To give the shine some longevity, the glaze-makers add in some shellac. Shellac is added to many New York State apples, chocolates, and other glazes. To make the glaze, the shellac is mixed with four or five parts of alcohol. The issue is not a new issue. What is new is that a growing number of organizations and people are taking the more

stringent view. Why this has happened is another issue. But few can deny that the matter is of growing concern. The debate seems to be a three-way debate between Rav Moshe Feinstein, zt”l, Rav Elyashiv, zt”l, and Dayan Weiss, zt”l. It concerns the kashrus of confectioner’s glaze and other food resins that are used on hundreds of food products, including apples and candy, and come from beetles. Rav Moshe Feinstein, zt”l, (Igros Moshe YD II #24) in a letter dated January 18, 1965 to Rabbi Nachum Kornmill, the former rabbi of the Young Israel of Lawrence Cedarhurst in the Five Towns, cites four reasons why shellac should be permitted: 1. The process regarding Lac beetles seems no different than bee honey — where the product is produced outside of the main body of the insect. The Beis Yosef seems to extend one type of honey to another type of honey — therefore we can perhaps also extend this to shellac production from beetles. 2. Rav Feinstein also suggests that shellac would be included within the verse that is understood to specifically come to permit bee honey since there is only one type of shellac (as opposed to many types of honey). The verse, argues Rav Feinstein, zt”l, permits the product of

all flying things that do not require name identification by species. Shellac does not require this because there is only one type of shellac. 3. Rav Feinstein disagrees with the view of Rabbi Joseph Teumim (the Pri Magadim) who writes that even a non-kosher item with no taste still requires a ratio of sixty times the amount of kosher to non-kosher in order for it to be considered kosher. Rav Feinstein suggested that this view is incorrect. 4. Rav Feinstein dealt with the possibility that this shellac is not ingested into the body at all and is therefore not forbidden. At least three of Rav Feinstein’s four points have come under great scrutiny and debate among some circles in the rabbinic world. The first point is questioned because Rav Feinstein needs to change the girsah or wording of the Talmud in order to make this argument. Some question this because there is no indication of this change in any manuscript or rabbinic work. There are also over 100 different types of coccoid beetles that produce different lac products. Rabbanim also question his other points as well (see volume III of Rav Yechezkel Roth’s responsa book). The next view is that of Dayan Yitzchak Weiss, zt”l. He writes in a responsa dat-

eaten by the general population or not. Beetles are the most popular eaten insect in the world, with some three billion people in China, India and Africa consuming them. While it could be argued that Rav Elyashiv’s point would not apply in those countries, there is a huge icky factor in Western countries. Thus, in the United States, Canada, and in Israel, they would still be forbidden. Nonetheless, there are

country is on the rise. The following seven startups, according to an article (June 9, 2023) by Chris Murray on the website Moneywise, have launched commercially available insect based foods for humans. 1. Ÿnsect - Fish, pet, poultry, and pig feed, as well as insect-based protein powder for humans Paris, France 2. All Things Bugs - Griopro® Cricket Powder Oklahoma City, OK

Beetles are the most popular eaten insect in the world, with some three billion people in China, India and Africa consuming them.

36 African countries that are “entomophagous” – as are 23 in the Americas, 29 in Asia, and 11 in Europe. Clearly, we are moving toward a more entomophagous society. The United Nations in New York has also called for more and more beetle and insect consumption. It is this author’s view that commercial bug and beetle consumption in this

3. Mighty Cricket Oatmeal, chocolate, and protein powder made from crickets St. Louis, Missouri 4. Grubbly Farms Pet food made from grubs Atlanta, Georgia 5. Hey Planet Protein bars, chocolates, and beetle-based meats Copenhagen, Denmark 6. Wilder Harrier Dog food made

from black soldier flies Montreal, Canada 7. Beta Hatch Pet food and soil made from meal worms Seattle, Washington It could be that with the rise in immigration from bug-consuming countries, Rav Elyashiv’s stringency would no longer be applicable. It seems, however, that most of the organizations and rabbanim who have ruled stringently on the matter also do so because of Dayan Weiss’ hesitations as well as questions that they had on Rav Moshe’s ruling. Some have also argued that Rav Feinstein, zt”l, was the posek of the United States, and since he permitted it, how may anyone come to question his ruling. Of course, each person should consult his own rabbi as to what to do in regard to Kerria Lacca. But whatever one’s personal views on the matter, at the end of the day, many schools, shuls and entire communities are now strictly adhering to this standard to avoid Kerria Lacca. The vegan community is also interested in a replacement product and many in that world have stopped eating this product, opting for a corn-based item instead.

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

NOVEMBER 16, 2023 | The Jewish Home

ed May 7, 1986 (Minchas Yitzchok Vol. X #65) that there would be basis to permit it based upon the fact the shellac is only added for chazussah, appearance, and even then it may fall into the category of zeh va’zeh gorem — two items both being a cause of it. Furthermore, he rules that the halacha is in accordance with the Pri Chadash that in regard to matters of appearance we are only dealing with a rabbinic issue and not a Torah prohibition. The fact that it is mixed with a greater percentage of alcohol may make the prohibition null and void. However, he concludes that due to our lack of a depth of knowledge into the properties and nature of shellac, he is unable to permit it. Finally, the third view is that of Rav Elyashiv, zt”l. He writes in Kovetz Teshuvos (Vol 1 #73) that according to the ruling of the Mordechai and Rabbeinu Gershom, the leniency of the external product of a forbidden animal would only have applied to an animal or creature that the surrounding population generally consumes. Beetles, however, are not generally consumed; therefore, that which comes from it (the shellac) would still be forbidden. One can perhaps challenge the information presented to Rav Elyashiv in terms of whether or not the beetles are

The Jewish Home | NOVEMBER 16, 2023

The Wandering

Jew

Manhattan Part I By Hershel Lieber

The Empire State Building

t may seem odd that after writing over one hundred twenty articles about our travels abroad and throughout the United States, I am going to devote at least two articles to my local wanderings. Although we presently live in Lakewood, NJ, both Pesi and I resided for close to seventy years in Brooklyn, NY. Pesi grew up in Crown Heights, and I moved to Boro Park from Williamsburg at the age of five. After getting married, we settled down in Boro Park where we raised our family. Enough of this personal history. Let me get to the point of my article. I was always enamored by Manhattan. From when I was about ten years old, I would go with friends on Chol Hamoed outings to “the Big Apple.” We visited the Empire State Building, the Statue of Liberty, and the United Nations. Other times, we went to the Museum of Natural History, the Hayden Planetarium,

and the Jewish Museum. We traveled by subway without adults accompanying us. I even remember going a number of times with classmates from the Bobover Yeshiva to the Automobile Show at the

the family’s financial plight. I stood in for my father, going from showroom to showroom in the Garment Center to find bargains on behalf of the two wholesalers he had serviced. When my father was

I walked the length and breadth of the city and encountered the charms of its multi-ethnic communities.

Coliseum under the chaperone of an older bochur. Just walking along the city’s streets excited me, and this attraction remains with me to this very day. When I was eighteen years old, my father, a”h, became terminally ill, and I had to go to work part-time to help with

niftar, I was hired by a sweater importer on Broadway near Houston Street, basically to pack orders. During these two years, I had the opportunity to walk around Manhattan and learn about its different neighborhoods. My long lunch breaks consisted mainly of discovering

the multi-faceted allure that made up this great city. I walked the length and breadth of the city and encountered the charms of its multi-ethnic communities. After getting married, I worked as an accountant in different sections of the city (the Lower Manhattan, Midtown, Times Square and the East Side) and pursued my passion to experience the magic of this great metropolis. I was getting paid based on the clients I serviced and not on an hourly or weekly basis. This gave me the freedom to wander around Manhattan, as I was able to work according to my own schedule. I did not neglect my wife and children; I just allowed myself from time to time the liberty to uncover the mysteries of this fascinating city. Although I was an accountant for most of my professional life, I really did not like mathematics or science. I was always more attuned to history and geog-

raphy. Jewish history was and still is a favorite subject, and New York City’s Jewish community has a wealth of history which intensely interested me. I read up a lot about the different waves of immigration starting from 1654 to the present day. I studied and visited the neighborhoods where Jews resided and uncovered the remaining vestiges of their former presence. My keen interest in Manhattan propelled me to internalize a wealth of information about the city. I knew and visited its many neighborhoods like the Financial District, the Lower East Side, Chinatown, Little Italy, Greenwich Village, Herald Square, Times Square, the Upper East Side, Yorkville, the Upper West Side and Washington Heights. I even took a walk once along 125th Street in the heart of Harlem from the East River to the Hudson River to get a feel of that community. I wore my yarmulka and was not at all apprehensive about the local population.

Statue of Liberty

I basically memorized the subway map, especially the Manhattan sections as well as a good part of Brooklyn. I knew the connecting stations between the three lines (BMT, IRT and IND) and could list all the names of all the express and local stations. I knew a plethora of historical facts but could not memorize the exact dates of those events. Within a short time, I became a source of information about anything that had to do with Manhattan. My interest in New York City’s Jewish life reached a crescendo during 1973/1974, when Pesi and I spent four Shabbosim in Manhattan. Three times we went alone and once we went with a group of friends. We davened in a variety of shuls with mispallelim from different backgrounds. The spectrum of synagogues included Lincoln Square, Park East, Fifth Avenue and the Spanish Portuguese, as well as the Boyaner Shtiebel. The spiritual leaders included Rabbis Shlomo Riskin, Arthur Schnei-

The United Nations

er, Emanuel Rackman, and Marc D. Angel and the chazzanim were Yosef Malovany and Sherwood Goffin. In the summer of 2000, we spent two Shabbosim at Columbia Presbyterian Hospital with a family member. I davened in Washington Heights at Khal Adas Yeshurun (Breuer’s) and at the Bridge Shul as well as the Dombrover Shtiebel. I became familiar with other midtown shuls such as the Garment Center, the Millinery Center, and the Fur Center Synagogues where I would occasionally daven Mincha. On the Upper East Side, we davened with Rabbi Michael Schmidman at Orach Chayim, with Rabbi Yosef Ralbag at Bnei Yisroel, and at the Lisker Shtiebel. All those times were in relation to having a family member at nearby hospitals. On different occasions, I davened at the Wall Street Synagogue, The White Street Shul in Tribeca, the Chelsea Shul on West 23rd Street, and at Aderet El in the Murray Hill section. Having been to so many shuls in different sections of Manhattan afforded me an

NOVEMBER 16, 2023 | The Jewish Home

The New York City skyline

The Jewish Home | NOVEMBER 16, 2023

The Jewish Museum

extensive appreciation of the commonality that we Jews have despite our different lifestyles and diverse approaches within Orthodoxy. I have not yet touched upon my infatuation with the Lower East Side, to which I will devote a separate article where I can focus on my experiences within that special locality. A final story for this initial article about Manhattan: In 1973, I was working for an accounting firm which assigned me to do auditing work at the PJ Moriarty Irish Pub and Restaurant on

Shearith Israel Spanish & Portuguese Synagogue

Third Avenue near East 61st Street. The work was boring, and the proprietor, an older Irishman with a grouchy temperament, was in the office above the pub for only two hours a day. My work was so minimal that I would finish my daily workload in less than an hour. The accounting firm suggested that I take twohour lunch breaks but said that I could not leave for home before four o’clock. I took their suggestion and took a giant lunch break daily. I would stop into Bloomingdale’s and go to the children’s section to see if any items were on sale. An elderly saleswomen took a liking to

Lincoln Square Synagogue

Bloomingdale’s

me and would put away merchandise for me before a sale took place. I was able to get beautiful quality clothing for my girls at rock-bottom prices. However, I could not go shopping every day! I needed something to occupy myself with, as I walked the local streets. Hashem helped me with my predicament. One day, I noticed that a local bank, The Dry Dock Bank, was holding a “Landmark Hunt” contest, and I went into the bank to get information. The bank handed out a sheet with black and white photos (that’s what was used at the time) of landmarks within a onemile perimeter of the bank. The 50 photos were taken from small segments of nearby buildings. They consisted of ornate entrances, artistic details, unusual angles of the buildings, decorative shop windows, charming signs, flagpoles, statues, gargoyles and anything else that was somewhat unusual. The photos were clear, but the places were actually difficult to locate. I remember that the final date that the answers had to be submitted was December 31, 1973. This became my lunchtime project, and as usual, the first twenty or so photos were easy to find, but it became progressively harder to locate the latter items. I walked those blocks over and over in my attempt to find all 50 locations. It was a week before the deadline when I successfully found all the places and marked them on my contest sheet. I mailed it out immediately

PJ Moriarity at his Irish Pub & Restaurant

and waited impatiently for an answer. In mid-January 1974, Dry Dock Bank announced the winners, and I was not one of them. I was very disappointed since I did have all the correct answers and had mailed it out in ample time. I went to the bank, but they told me that an independent firm was running their contest. In mid-March, my mangled mail was returned as undeliverable. The address was correct, the postage was sufficient, but somehow the post office messed up. I took it in stride and accepted that Hashem had different plans for me.

Hershel Lieber has been involved in kiruv activities for over 30 years. As a founding member of the Vaad L’Hatzolas Nidchei Yisroel he has traveled with his wife, Pesi, to the Soviet Union during the harsh years of the Communist regimes to advance Yiddishkeit. He has spearheaded a yeshiva in the city of Kishinev that had 12 successful years with many students making Torah their way of life. In Poland, he lectured in the summers at the Ronald S. Lauder Foundation camp for nearly 30 years. He still travels to Warsaw every year – since 1979 – to be the chazzan for Rosh Hashana and Yom Kippur for the Jews there. Together with Pesi, he organized and led trips to Europe on behalf of Gateways and Aish Hatorah for college students finding their paths to Jewish identity. His passion for travel has taken them to many interesting places and afforded them unique experiences. Their open home gave them opportunities to meet and develop relationships with a variety of people. Hershel’s column will appear in The Jewish Home on a bi-weekly basis.

NOVEMBER 16, 2023 | The Jewish Home

The Jewish Home | NOVEMBER 16, 2023

nspiration Nation

R’ Yakov Danishefsky: The Psychology Of Connection By Eliyahu RosEnBERg

f you’ve ever taken note of the elements which comprise a frum lifestyle, you’d likely discover that everything we do ultimately boils down to growing closer to Hashem. Whether it be by doing mitzvos, davening, or learning Torah, every religious action that we do is, in truth, a method of building our relationship with G-d. And yet, it can often be difficult for us to focus on our conn ection with the One Above. How can we, as finite creatures, have a relationship with the infinite G-d, whom we can’t even understand? This question has been pondered by the likes of many, including Rabbi Yakov Danishefsky, an Orthodox Jewish social worker, author, and speaker, who has skillfully blended the psychology of human connection with Jewish philosophy in order to provide a framework through which one may connect to G-d. Rabbi Danishefsky grew up in Bergenfield, New Jersey, and he received his semicha from Yeshiva University. He is now a practicing social worker in Chicago, where he works as a private therapist. During his studies in YU, he became interested in how

Judaism relates to modern psychology, and through his research, he uncovered several fascinating connections between the two. His book, titled Attached: Connecting to Our Creator, a Jewish Psychological Approach, was published this year and explores these ideas. Rabbi Danishefsky bases much of his teachings on “attachment theory,” a psychological theory which posits that human connection is just as essential to our existence as our physical safety is, and one who doesn’t have healthy relationships is akin to one deprived of food, water, shelter, or even air. Previous theories have suggested that we foster relationships with others as a means of fulfilling our basic needs. In other words, we connect to others because, subconsciously, we see interaction as a way of getting what we, perhaps selfishly, want. Attachment theory, which has recently risen in popularity in the world of psychology, instead asserts that humans pursue relationships, not as an expression of selfish self-interest, but rather, for the sake of genuinely connecting with others. A rela-

In His Words… Torah gives life to whatever already exists within a person.

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g-d is, of course, real, but we’re all experiencing him through our own prism.

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What sechar mitzvah mitzvah means is that the reward of connection is connection.

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There’s always more space to be explored. living with that awareness itself is a game-changing experience.

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tionship is needed for its own sake. By combining attachment theory with Judaism, Rabbi Danishefsky has demonstrated that the same principles hold true with our relationship with G-d. “It’s not that the relationship is there because I need things from Hashem – like Hashem is some sort of dispensary or vending machine,” Rabbi Danishefsky said. “Or that I daven and then something good happens to me.” Benefiting ourselves – whether through acquiring material possessions or attaining the satisfaction of an ethical lifestyle, while amazing and valid – is not what our relationship with G-d should truly be about. Rather, the essence of our connection with the Creator is, as Chazal say: “sechar mitzvah mitzvah, the reward for a mitzvah is a mitzvah.” “As the Baal Shem Tov explains, mitzvah means, as we typically translate it: a commandment, and he says that it also means connection,” he explained. “Under that translation, what sechar mitzvah mitzvah means is that the reward of connection is connection, and that’s what attachment theory is saying: that the purpose of a relationship is the relationship.” Now, there are a few obstacles in our path that make it difficult for us to succeed in our relationships. The most notable issue for most is time. The beginning of a relationship is usually the freshest and most exciting part when it comes to dating and marriage. But unfortunately, that feeling, at least for some, tends to fade away with time. This phenomenon, which many experience at the beginning of a relationship, has many names: chemistry, a spark, passion, and the list goes on. But at its core, the essence of the feeling can be summed up in four words: knowing and being known.

According to research conducted by Dr. John and Dr. Julie Gottman, when two people are dating or newly married, they experience a thrill in learning about the other person and having the other person learn about them. However, once the couple feels as though they’ve learned practically everything about one another – that there are no surprises or mysteries left to be discovered – the relationship risks becoming routine and boring. But the good news is that there’s a way for a couple to keep on “knowing and being known” even after being married for decades. How? “A lot of it comes from the awareness that each person is really a ‘secret’ and that we’re all ultimately unknowable,” Rabbi Danishefsky explained. “There’s always more to know, so no matter how much we know about the person, we still barely know the person. And that starts with the way we relate to ourselves, because, in truth, we barely even know ourselves.” He adds, “The problem is that for whatever reason, we hit a certain amount of knowledge and then we think, ‘OK, so now I know the person’, but, in truth, there’s always more to learn. And it’s not even necessarily in terms of content. It’s not necessarily that there’s some story that happened to my wife in fifth grade that she happened to not have told me yet. I’m talking about not knowing in the sense that there’s layers and there’s depth and there’s subtlety and there’s always a mystery; there’s always more space to be explored.” If you think about it, who is more unknowable than our infinite G-d? Through learning Torah, we can learn about G-d, but the knowledge of the Al-mighty will always be endless. And every single time we daven and speak to Hashem, we are in a way, being known by Him. If we are conscious of this fact – that there’s always the process of

95 how you feel about yourself when you’re with that person,” Rabbi Danishefsky said. “Do you feel like you are the best version of yourself when you’re with that person?” Let’s be clear: that doesn’t mean feeling perfect or feeling incredible every second you spend with this person. Rather, it means that you feel whole in your imperfections – that despite your flaws, you feel enabled to accept yourself – when you are with this person. That, alone, is proof that the relationship will be successful. Relating this idea to Hashem may be a little tricky, as there is only one true G-d; we are certainly not, chas v’shalom, shopping around to see which G-d is ‘compatible’ with us. But this principle still applies, albeit in a slightly different way. There’s a famous story of a great rabbi who was talking to an atheist, and the rabbi

told him, “I don’t believe in G-d.” The atheist was shocked. How can this tzaddik say such a thing? Then the rabbi added: “The G-d you don’t believe in, I don’t believe in either.” “To some degree, we all make G-d up in our own image. G-d is, of course, real, but we’re all experiencing Him through our own prism,” Rabbi Danishefsky asserted. “Whatever the real thing is is sort of getting filtered through the lens that we’re wearing, and we’re all, therefore, experiencing different versions of G-d. So, how do we know if we found the right one?” We all have a personal connection to Hashem, and thus, we may choose to see Him as we wish. We can discover the best way to view G-d based on how each viewpoint makes us feel. That doesn’t mean that everything will suddenly be easy and great

for us. Nor does it mean that discomfort in doing mitzvos means that we’re connecting to Hashem incorrectly. Simply put, once we view Hashem correctly, we’ll instantly realize that this “feels right” and that we’re doing the correct thing. The Aseres Hadibros are split in two: bein adam l’Makom, our relationship with Hashem, and bein adam l’chaveiro, our relationship with people. But in truth, there are so many parallels between the two that one might validly conclude that we can’t truly succeed in our interpersonal relationships if we neglect our relationship with the most important One of all. And as much as we need to work on loving and trusting in G-d, the important thing to realize is that we’re all the recipients of Hashem’s unconditional love and care. We are most certainly in good hands.

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.

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knowing and being known when it comes to Hashem – then we can begin to build a lasting relationship with Him. The Guttmans also cover the burning question of how to know if the person you’re dating is “the one.” You see, the common method through which people evaluate prospective matches is by comparing the person with an image already in their head: whether the person has X personality, or Y “look,” or Z accomplishment, etc. The shocking truth, explained Rabbi Danishefsky, is that the presence of such qualities has zero predictive power in determining whether a relationship will work out or not. What, then, does the success of a relationship rest upon? “The one thing that has consistent predictive capacity for a good relationship is

The Jewish Home | NOVEMBER 16, 2023

In The

News

Not an Ordinary Cup of Joe Throngs of People Head to Caffé Aronne in Support of Israel By Nati Burnside

The crowd in front of Caffe Aronne

t 6:30 in the morning on November 7, Aaron Dahan walked into Caffé Aronne on the Upper East Side of Manhattan. As the owner, he was coming off a rough few weeks in which five employees had quit their jobs. Nevertheless, everything seemed fine when he checked in with the two baristas who had shifts that morning, before he left to go run an event. Little did he know, but Caffé Aronne was about to become much more than a small neighborhood café. Dahan went to Instacart’s office where he set up and operated an espresso bar, a fairly normal service that he provides upon request. After a few hours, he received a call from his mother. As soon as he picked up, he knew something was wrong. “Her voice was trembling so badly that I assumed there had been a death in the family,” Dahan recalled. “Once she started asking about the café, I relaxed a little.” The Dahan family actually had recently experienced some truly horrible news. Their cousin and his girlfriend had been at the Supernova Sukkot Gathering, the

music festival in Re’im that was brutally attacked by Hamas terrorists on October 7. It took eight days for the IDF to identify their corpses due to mutilation. Immediately after October 7, Dahan had placed an Israeli flag at the register at Caffé Aronne. It was next to the American

But until November 7, he was still getting by. He had a policy about not talking about politics to customers, and he was planning a dinner for his staff to discuss the conflict. But the call from his mother featured some strange news. She had read on a Facebook group for Upper East Side

In just a few hours, the line for coffee was around 100 people deep and two hours long.

flag that had been there since September 11th. He also put up a sign that the café was donating money to Magen David Adom, an organization he picked for its humanitarian aid towards all people. After the news regarding his cousin, he took the additional step of putting posters of those kidnapped by Hamas in the window. As the month progressed, those steps caused staff members to quit one by one.

moms that somebody had walked into Caffé Aronne that morning. The person said that the baristas were wearing Palestinian pins and telling customers to boycott the place. Dahan was unable to leave the event, so he called his manager. While not on site at the time, the manager said that he would check it out. When confronted about the story, one of the baristas quit on the spot and

the other would not speak about it. After getting the info from his manager, Dahan called his mother back to tell her to go down and close the coffee shop for the day. “You’re not closing,” said Peggy Dahan flatly, according to her son. “I’m on my way there right now.” Upon arrival, she did not really know what to do. She had no training in making coffee. Even using the cash register was something she had to pick up on the spot. Apparently, it showed. A customer asked her why she seemed out of place. No uniform, no barista skills… red flag. Peggy explained to the customer the circumstances of the day. And that customer shared those circumstances with the internet. Soon enough, posts were all over every social media platform. Word travels pretty fast in 2023. Peggy had called her daughter, Sophie, a student at NYU, to come help. But as the crowds started showing up, the mother/daughter duo would prove insufficient. In just a few hours, the line for coffee was around 100 people deep and two

Aaron Dahan on Fox News

hours long. Luckily, customers were not the only ones who had heard about the situation. The Israeli owners of two other local places, The Coffee Inn and Matto Espresso, showed up with baristas in tow. They told Peggy that their staffs were now Caffé Aronne’s staff and that their original employers would be paying them to work with her. “We are so thankful that everyone came to support us so quickly,” a slightly overwhelmed Sophie said that day. “We have nothing else to sell at this point.” Obviously, Caffé Aronne was not prepared for this circumstance. They sold out of pretty much every food item in minutes, and that news made its way online. That caused people to show up with packaged items of their own – not to eat, but to donate to the cause. Caffé Aronne was able to sell the donated items with 100% of the proceeds going to Magen David Adom. The line became a gathering place for those on the Upper East Side, and the police showed up to help deal with crowd control and make sure that there were no negative events stemming from the positive story. Ellen Lasko heard about the situation from her sister-in-law, an employee at The Ramaz School. With Dahan being a graduate, word spread like wildfire in the school community. “I think we all feel that if we can’t be in Israel and be hands on there, we can at least show our support here,” Lasko remarked about her fellow line-standers. “No more Starbucks. This will be my newfound coffee spot.” But while some heard about the events through local means, others were put on notice from much more distant locations. Robert Barrack lives a few blocks away, but he heard about it from his daughter. She is married to an Israeli man and lives there now. “My daughter sent me the post, and I felt I should show my support,” he said. “I didn’t even want coffee.” Others ventured from much farther

away. One example was a woman from Long Island who drove to Brooklyn to see a friend so they could take a walk together. Upon hearing of the events, they took the time to go stand in line instead. And yet there were plenty of people who could not simply make it to the café itself. Luckily for them, some of the social media posts included a link where people could buy gift cards. Dahan has since sold a ton of gift cards to people all over the world and from all different walks of life. Some are from Jewish people in communities abroad like in Israel, England, or Australia, but he also had a sale to a pastor in Alaska. Many of those from far away instructed him to donate the money to Magen David Adom. Dahan’s surprise was somewhat mitigated by the fact that many people who showed up in person decided to forgo the coffee and instead donated money to the cause.

lmost a week later, a few things have changed at Caffé Aronne, but there is still a line down the block to get a cup of coffee. The story has caused a media stampede that included the front page of the New York Post (headline: “Bar-ista Mitzvah”) and an appearance by Dahan on Fox News. There were points in which many people were bringing their own cups because the café was running out. In fact, they were running low on beans as well. But their distributors not only rushed production to send more supplies, they told Dahan that the extra deliveries would be made free of charge. There is also at least one new barista. A woman walked in after hearing about the situation and told Dahan that she had just gotten off a plane from Israel, had five years’ experience as a barista, and her house had been destroyed by a rocket just days earlier. He hired her on the spot. Hopefully, the crowds of people sometimes breaking out into song in Hebrew will make her feel at home.

One other big change is the hours at Caffé Aronne. While you might think that they need to be open for more hours to accommodate the demand, it’s actually the opposite, and not for lack of staff. Dahan keeps Shabbat and had been operating Caffé Aronne under shtar mechira (a contract of sale). His non-Jewish manager took official ownership and profits for the hours on Shabbat (which it turns out was their busiest day). But starting last week, Dahan put a sign in the window stating that they were going to close at 2:00 on Friday and reopen on Sunday morning. “I felt it was the right thing to do given the immense support of the religious community,” Dahan explained.

Caffé Aronne sells a selection of packaged pastries that are kosher certified, alongside fresh ones that are not. As they transition to a wine bar in the evening, all of their wines are both kosher and mevushal. Dahan has recently had discussions about switching the supplier of the fresh pastries and getting kosher supervision for Caffé Aronne as he plans on continuing to stay closed on Shabbat. “With everything that has happened in the last week, everybody always asks me what I have to say,” Dahan offered. “What I tell them is that this is truly a ‘mi k’amcha Yisroel’ situation. What other community would make all this possible?”

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PHOTO BY THE NY POST

The Jewish Home | NOVEMBER 16, 2023

Dating Dialogue

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

Dear Navidaters,

In the moment I am writing to you all, I am very distraught. I was engaged to a guy who I was very excited to marry. Some issues came up while we were dating, and I was coached through them, most related to boundaries, interpersonal things. I grew a

lot and felt I was in a great place. My chosson and I dated for a few months and have been engaged for a month. He just informed me that he is unable to proceed with the engagement. He is claiming that I seem way too high-strung, needy, and lacking boundaries, among other things. These are things I have worked very hard on, and although I can’t say I have perfected them, I have really tried, and have been trying to work on. I don’t know what to do with myself – this was supposed to be my future and now it is gone. I am trying to make sense of it. I realize there were some things I did to “mess up,” but I wish he would have given me more of a chance. I guess I am writing to get clarity. Can I push to have this engagement back on? If I resign myself to the fact that it is truly over, how can I move forward while also feeling that I will never find someone like him again?

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The Panel

The Rebbetzin Rebbetzin Faigie Horowitz, M.S.

ou started this communication saying that you were writing the question “in the moment.” I am hopeful that you have reached more clarity since your query. You have worked on certain parts of yourself during the relationship. This effort brought you to better self-understanding and probably better communication and relating. So the engagement was a good thing for you. But obviously, the young man doesn’t feel that the two of you are a good fit, your growth not withstanding.

Pushing someone to stay in a relationship is neither wise nor fair to both partners. Force breeds resentment, ill will, and worse. Two people who commit to marriage should come to it willingly from desire for a shared life of values, feelings, and aspirations as well as chemistry. You have a way to go to understanding marriage. But you have already begun this journey as you have worked on yourself. Keep working on yourself with some help and be grateful for this learning experience Hashem has brought you. You will certainly be in a better place if you keep at the growth and understanding of relationships. You will be a better you, and you will find a more suitable match. Keep growing, and move on.

The Shadchan Michelle Mond

hank you for coming to us in your moment of desperation. I truly hope that with putting all our minds together, our panel can help you. To answer your last question first: you never want to push someone into doing anything, even more so into marriage. As it is, the guy you were engaged to had hesitancies, and whether I believe that it was a good idea to continue pushing it is a question in itself. In those cases, I believe a solid break in the relationship, before engagement, with time for both parties to do their own inner work is the best solution. A

We fall, brush ourselves off, and learn from our experiences so our bruises turn into muscles.

couple can then revisit the idea later on and see if things feel right. The best thing you can do now is find ways to heal. Close this chapter in your mind, as hard as that will be for you. Work with a therapist, embrace the time you now have to work on yourself, and keep busy with chessed and helping others. Your bashert is out there some-

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The Single Tzipora Grodko

’m sending so much compassion and support your way. What an incredibly difficult challenge to be facing. I would highly recommend having an intervention with your coach or a professionally trained therapist and your chosson. Relationships are all about learning, compromising, and growing. A healthy life partner will invest all effort needed to make a relationship work. Since it sounds like you’re ready to do whatever it takes, I would hope that attending some sessions together with a trained professional would be valuable. If he’s not willing to work with you, then I would exercise faith (as my primary mode of healing) knowing that you did your best and that G-d has a plan that’s always in your best interests. We fall, brush ourselves off, and learn from our experiences so our bruises turn into muscles that strengthen our resilience and life satisfaction.

The Zaidy Dr. Jeffrey Galler

roken engagements are very sad and seem to be happening with increas-

ing frequency in our community. In most cases, after a period of grieving and introspection, a person is able to take a deep breath, move on, start dating again, find someone new and wonderful, and proceed to have an amazing, happy life. After your broken engagement, it is not so troubling that you feel the need to improve in some areas. All of us, in all stages of life, can benefit from some self-improvement. (Just ask my wife. After 50 years of marriage, she can easily provide you with an extensive list of how I need to improve myself.) However, what is very troubling here, is that you are clearly suffering from feelings of low self-esteem. What happened to you? Maybe your former fiancé contributed to your feelings of diminished selfworth. Perhaps he felt a need to build up his own ego by denigrating you. If so, do you really want to be married to someone who excels at pointing out your faults? Maybe the self-proclaimed “coach,” or misguided therapist, caused you to feel bad about yourself and tried to mold you into someone who you are not. They convinced you that you are “high strung”? Perhaps that is actually a wonderful quality, meaning that you have an exciting, extroverted personality. They convinced you that you are “needy”? Perhaps that is actually a wonderful quality, meaning that you are a very loving person who wants to feel close, connected, and valued. I’m not at all sure what you mean by “lacking boundaries,” but it is so easy to convince oneself that qualities that are positive can be deemed negative.

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.

Perhaps you should consider that although this has been a painful experience for you, Hashem has protected you from entering into a disastrous marriage. Your letter does not really give us a very full, clear picture of what happened. However, please accept the suggestion that you need to cultivate a stronger sense of self-worth and self-confidence. Perhaps you would benefit from some professional assistance in order to attain a more positive, healthier mental outlook. You will know that you have achieved a much healthier state of mind when you no longer dwell on the question, “How can I move forward while also feeling that I

will never find someone like him again?” Instead, you will come to the healthy realization that “my ex-boyfriend made the biggest mistake of his life. He will never be able to find someone as wonderful as me!”

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where, but this guy was not the right one, and Hashem saved you from it! Hodu L’Hashem ki tov! You get to start again fresh, learn from past mistakes, in order to receive your true bashert into your life when he comes along.

Pushing someone to stay in a relationship is neither wise nor fair to both partners.

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Parenting Pearls

The Year of Shabbos By Sara Rayvych, MSEd

habbos is referred to as a gift to the Jewish people. It’s so exclusively ours that a gentile is forbidden from keeping it. Many of us can’t imagine how human beings can function without this special matana from Hashem. Months ago, I noticed the calendar showing that we wouldn’t have shofar on the first day of Rosh Hashana nor lulav

and esrog on the first day of Sukkos. We would be unable to perform these special mitzvos on the day prescribed in the Torah. I was disappointed and unsure what this meant for us. I was certainly not the only one to notice this calendar situation, and we soon heard many of our gedolim calling for greater adherence to Shabbos. Learning the halachos, enhancing our

observance and appreciating this unique gift quickly became part of this year’s special avodah. After the recent tragedies occurred on Simchas Torah, also the seventh day of the week, the holy Shabbos day took on even greater meaning in a way we could never have previously appreciated. Each Shabbos is one more week with members of our nation in captivity and marks another week that our chayalim spend fighting instead of with their families. As we stand with them from a distance, we celebrate Shabbos closely connected to them. It’s said that more than the Jewish people keep the Shabbos, the Shabbos “keeps” the Jews. Now is the time to enhance Shabbos for ourselves and our children, ensuring many more generations keeping Shabbos and being protected by this holy day.

The Shabbos Difference Shabbos is different from other days, and that’s how it should be. Our children, too, can appreciate the changes that Shabbos brings. Throughout this article, I will try providing some examples, but it can’t be stressed enough that it’s the overall feeling and tone, not just a list of to-do items, that create that special Shabbos atmosphere. Children and teens will value different parts of Shabbos than we do – that’s normal! We can appreciate the special tefillos of Shabbos, while all they see are Shabbos groups or the candy man. We may enjoy a nap or leisurely conversation at the table, while they look forward to a nice playdate and special desserts. Mitoch shelo lishma, ba lishma. The important part is they should enjoy Shab-

bos and look forward to its arrival. Children and teens feel special when wearing nice Shabbos clothes. We may think little kids don’t notice what they’re wearing, but being dressed in their best makes them feel like the royalty they are. Some people like singing and some don’t, but nobody can deny the unique feeling we get hearing the special Shabbos tunes. Singing child-friendly versions of the zemiros can help involve the younger members of the family. But, even if you sing alone, it’s still worth singing. It can be said that it starts and ends with their stomachs. We spend the first months of their life continuously feeding that little tummy, and it doesn’t stop there. There is something special about the Shabbos foods, and there is so much tradition passed on with those tasty treats. We shouldn’t underestimate the role a good meal plays in keeping them focused on the day.

The Atmosphere As in every other area, we set the tone. If we value the Shabbos experience, they will, too. If we act annoyed that we can’t check our phone or drive somewhere, they will certainly notice. But, it goes even deeper than this. We want to evaluate our overall attitude. Is it “baruch hashem, Shabbos is coming” or “I can’t believe I have to prepare again”? Children are meant to learn by observing others – especially their close adults – on how to behave. They are very perceptive, and they pick up on more than we realize. It’s not just what we say but the hidden messages we give off that often matter the most.

To Do List

The Shabbos Table The Shabbos table can be called the highlight of the day. The food is delicious, and the family is together. It’s this time, when everyone is focused and calm, when we can have some of our best

should be something they will connect with. The topic should be appropriate for their developmental level. For example, discussing the current situation in Israel or increased antisemitism may be too much for young children or even teens. Some parents may find they can bring even intense topics to an age-appropriate level and may cautiously include

It’s the overall feeling and tone, not just a list of to-do items, that create that special Shabbos atmosphere.

This is the perfect time to discuss that week’s parsha, an upcoming yom tov or a meaningful hashkafic discussion. It’s important to remember that the topic, method and time should be geared to the crowd. The topic should be relevant and (ideally) interesting since children will find many adult conversations incredibly boring. At least some of the talk

more difficult topics. We want to keep the method of conversation appropriate to our child’s developmental stage. Storytelling is incredibly popular for all age groups, while lectures generally interest no one. Asking thought-provoking questions – without pressuring or criticizing wrong answers – can really make children think. Each family will find what works

for their unique children’s needs. We should also keep discussions succinct. Even the most interesting topic will eventually outlast a little child. We may have their full attention for the first minutes but lose them for the last ones. Keeping an eye on the crowd and not our watch will help guide us in how long we should speak on any given topic. Fidgeting, leaving the table or talking to others can all be clues that a child is tuning out. Not all parents will feel comfortable leading the table talk. There are many wonderful seforim geared towards children that parents may find helpful. Whether it’s parsha, hilchos Shabbos or any topic of interest, a good book (often with great illustrations) is a simple way to draw in children without the pressure of having to prepare an entire lesson plan. Shabbos is a gift that gives back far more than we invest. I want to wish TJH readers a Shabbat shalom as we await a time of eternal peace and menucha.

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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It’s too easy for kids (and adults) to view Shabbos as simply a do and don’t list. Unfortunately, they mostly see what they can’t do. We only reinforce this if we say “you can’t do that” all day. We want to avoid this negative perception whenever possible. With little kids, we can often prevent this by keeping forbidden items out of their reach so we won’t feel the need to continuously take them away. It’s best to offer what they can do so Shabbos is a day of joy and excitement, not a refrain of “don’t do this or this.” There are many games and activities that are appropriate for Shabbos. We also shouldn’t underestimate the value of family time. We are the most important people in their life, and they want our attention. With the more relaxed pace of Shabbos, we have greater opportunities to focus on those most important to us.

family discussions. For many parents, this is their main (or only) opportunity to have meaningful conversations with their child. It’s my humble opinion that most families benefit when the parents have something prepared in advance of the meal and don’t “make it up” as they go. Parenting involves thought, and a good Shabbos table is no exception.

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School of

Thought

By Etti Siegel

Dear Etti, As a first grade teacher, I have dealt with some tattling in the past, but this year, my students are non-stop telling on each other. I have done all the obvious things, but nothing seems to be working. Help! -First Grade Morah

Dear Morah, Thanks for being a caring teacher. This an issue teachers and parents deal with often. Let’s start by understanding the world of a first grader (and any preschool class through grades as high as third and fourth). They are just beginning to learn about rules and structure. They are absorbing messages about right and wrong, fair and unfair. Oftentimes, they are adjusting to being in a group with one teacher when they have been used to a higher adult-to-student ratio. To make sense of their world, they might be following the rules and feel obligated to set things straight when they see other children not following the rules. Rules are helpful for early childhood. They can master a set of simple instructions even if they are too young to master perspective-taking and empathy. Dr. Jamie Howard explains that little kids’ brains are developed enough to learn a set of black-and-white rules but not the nuance in those rules. We reward rule-following. Karen at www.thenaturallycreativeclassroom.com offers some clarity: “Before teaching empathy and understanding, we make rules such as ‘Use kind words,’ ‘wait your turn,’ ‘Hands are for helping.’ We often do praise our children or students for following these rules, especially when they are small. As a parent or teacher, how often have you said, ‘Good job keeping your hands to yourself!’ or ‘You are being so patient!’?” It’s true. Adults make a big production about who is listening and who is “being good,” and children want to be noticed and loved by their teachers. Seeing a child break a rule could make a child believe that if she points it out, she will get praise for not breaking the rule that the other child is breaking. Furthermore, children want to be helpers and often think that the

as tattling or lashon hara. Teachers adults miss noticing an infracand parents must listen carefully as tion, so they rush in to speak up Tattling is children share to determine if the to inform the adult of the broken tattling is actually reporting. (We rule. trying to get need to remind children that adults But children should be telldon’t ask children for help unless it is ing adults when something is someone age-appropriate help and it is somewrong or seems off. They need to IN trouble. one they feel comfortable with, and be comfortable sharing if someadults don’t tell kids to keep secrets.) one is hurting them or if they Telling is Some children use tattling as a observe someone being hurt or way to get attention. Try to give the doing something dangerous. trying to get child attention in other ways. Notice if Dr. Rick Lavoie and Dr. Ross a child is a rule follower and find ways Green both share that social someone OUT to celebrate that with them. skills are skills that need to be Bring in stories of empathy – there taught just like any other skill. of trouble. are so many nowadays – and have lesHere is the difference besons that stretch the children to take tween tattling and telling/reanother’s perspective. porting: Adults should try not to resort to • Tattling is trying to get someone IN trouble. Telling is trying to get someone questions that encourage tattling, like “What happened?” or “Who started it?” OUT of trouble. One should be careful about taking a child’s word at • Tattling is usually about something not so imface value. Halachically, this is a problem as well. The portant. Telling is about something important. • Tattling is usually about something harmless. teacher should listen to the issue, and then try to obTelling is about something that is harmful to the per- serve the matter to get clarity before intervening. Obviously, the child’s perspective is biased and limited. son or to other people and might be dangerous. Be patient, as this is a lesson that takes time. • Tattling is usually about something someone did As we give children language to communicate by accident. Telling is usually about something done clearly and effectively, through writing, keeping a on purpose to be mean. • Tattling usually means the teacher has a skill journal, reading, and having conversations where they are allowed to talk freely and feel like they are taken deficit on her hands and needs to model more. It is very important that teachers do not shut down seriously, children will learn how and what to share children’s dialogue. There needs to be open conversa- and how to deal with matters appropriately before tion between children and at least one adult in their running to tell. Hatzlacha, lives. There have been too many stories of children not telling adults of matters that were dangerous or -Etti harmful because they mischaracterized the situation

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

Maximizing Your Vitamin D Intake During Winter By Aliza Beer MS, RD, CDN

hen it comes to maintaining optimal health, it’s important to have a diet with a variety of nutrients to ensure we are getting in all the vitamins and minerals we need. One vitamin in particular that is more difficult to get during the winter season is vitamin D. Vitamin D is known to be the “Sunshine Vitamin” since our body can make vitamin D when our skin is exposed to the sun. These sunrays create a chemical reaction in 7-dehydrocholesterol, which is a compound in our skin that helps us make vitamin D. 7-dehydrocholesterol gets converted into cholecalciferol, also known as vitamin D3, and then it’s absorbed into the bloodstream and goes into the liver and kidneys until it gets transformed into the active form of vitamin D that your body can use for various functions. Since the winter months are right

around the corner, the angle of the sun and colder temperatures can make it harder for us to absorb vitamin D from the sun. There are also concerns of skin cancer and aging from excessive light exposure without SPF, so it’s essential to find other ways to obtain vitamin D from other sources.

Importance of Vitamin D Vitamin D is a fat-soluble vitamin that is involved in many major body functions. One of its functions is to maintain strong bones in our body by absorbing calcium which will then protect our bodies from developing osteoporosis. Vitamin D is also involved with our immune function to help fight off pathogens like bacteria and viruses.

What Issues Arise From Vitamin D Deficiency 1. Rickets and osteomalacia:

Since vitamin D plays an important role in calcium absorption and bone metabolism, one can see rickets developing in children who have vitamin D deficiency. Adults and children can also get osteomalacia, which is a condition where the bones become weak and brittle and lead to increased bone pain and muscle weakness. 2. Osteoporosis: Osteoporosis is a disease that makes our bones weak and break more easily, and it can be harder to heal from fractures. 3. Becoming more susceptible to illness: Because vitamin D plays a large role in our immune function, one may get sick more easily, since we need the vitamin to help fight pathogens and bacteria. 4. Increase risk of certain diseases: Vitamin D deficiency may increase the risk of developing many common cancers, hypertension, cardio-

vascular disease, and type 1 diabetes. 5. Inhibit Weight Loss: There’s a debate whether vitamin D deficiency can make it harder for one to lose weight. While there isn’t a concrete answer, some studies have shown that obesity may increase the risk of a vitamin D deficiency. This may be due to the fact that if your body size is bigger, you may need a higher daily requirement of vitamin D. There is also some evidence that maintaining adequate levels of vitamin D can help with weight loss and decreased body fat; it can help with reducing the amount of new fat cells forming in the body and suppress storage of fat cells. More research is still needed to determine if vitamin D levels affect weight status.

Treating Vitamin D Deficiency Sometimes, getting vitamin D from our diet is enough to treat a vitamin D deficiency. However, in certain instanc-

es, medication and supplementation are needed depending on the person’s case.

The recommended amounts for vitamin D are: 1. Birth to 12 months: 400 IU 2. Children 1-13 years: 600 IU 3. Teens 14-18 years: 600 IU 4. Adults 19-70 years: 600 IU 5. Adults 71 years and older: 800 IU 6. Pregnant and breastfeeding women: 600 IU If you are concerned about being vitamin D deficient, you can easily find out at your next appointment with your physician. Your healthcare provider can check for a deficiency with a simple blood test. If you have low levels, or even trying to maintain healthy levels, here are good food sources of vitamin D.

pers, and cheese on whole grain toast b) Low-fat Greek yogurt with high fiber cereal, blackberries, walnuts 2. Lunch a) A salad with tuna, farro, romaine lettuce, tomatoes, cucumbers, and peppers

Since the winter months are right around the corner, the angle of the sun and colder temperatures can make it harder for us to absorb vitamin D from the sun.

ents from your diet, but supplements can help if that is not possible.

Sources of Vitamin D

Menu Suggestions

1. Most milks are fortified with vitamin D. If you are lactose intolerant or prefer not to drink milk, many plant-based milks are fortified with vitamin D as well. 2. Fatty fish: Vitamin D is present in salmon, sardines, tuna, fish liver oils, and trout.

Even though the dietary options of vitamin D are limited, there are plenty of recipes/meal plans you can make to ensure you eat enough vitamin D during the day. 1. Breakfast a) Egg omelet with mushrooms, pep-

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b) Shakshuka with mushrooms, tomatoes, and spinach 3. Dinner a) Seared tuna and a portobello mushroom salad b) Salmon tacos on low-carb tortillas with broccoli slaw mix/shredded cabbage. Vitamin D is an essential vitamin that is necessary to include in our diet

to maintain optimal health. It’s crucial for calcium absorption to support bone health, keep our immune system in check, prevent rickets in children, and low levels may inhibit weight loss. Incorporating a variety of foods that are high in vitamin D can help prevent vitamin D deficiency since it is harder to absorb vitamin D from the sun in the winter. Fish, eggs, dairy products, and mushrooms are all excellent options to include in your diet. If it’s too difficult to eat foods high in vitamin D, you don’t eat animal products, or your levels are still low even after incorporating more high vitamin D foods, then purchasing a vitamin D supplement can help make sure your vitamin D levels don’t decrease. As with all supplements, please speak with your primary care physician before making any dietary changes.

Aliza Beer is a registered dietitian with a master’s degree in nutrition. She has a private practice in Cedarhurst, NY. Patients’ success has been featured on the Dr. Oz show. Aliza can be reached at alizabeer@gmail. com, and you can follow her on Instagram at @alizabeer

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How Much Vitamin D Do You Need?

3. Beef liver, egg yolks, and cheese 4. Mushrooms 5. Fortified cereals 6. Since there are limited amounts of food options that have vitamin D, one can opt to buy vitamin D supplements. It’s important to get most of your nutri-

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More From Marblespoon by Vera Newman

Baked Mushroom Orzo Rice Pareve | Yields 6-8 servings

You know those boxed rice mixtures we are sometimes too tempted to buy, because, let’s be real, they are delicious and easy to make, but on the other hand, we don’t really want people to be able to tell that we’ve made a side dish from a box …. Well, I’ve got an even better tasting version of those right here for you! SUPER easy and irresistible! * 1 cup jasmine rice, rinsed * 1 cup orzo * 1 (8-oz) package mushrooms, sliced (see note) * 2 frozen garlic cubes, defrosted * 3 Tbsp onion soup mix * 3 Tbsp pareve chicken soup mix * ¼ cup oil * 4 cups boiling water Preheat oven to 350°F. Add rice, orzo, mushrooms, garlic cubes, onion soup mix, chicken soup mix, and oil to a 9x13-inch pan. Stir to combine. Add boiling water; stir well. Cover tightly; bake for 1 hour. Fluff with a fork. Notes You may use 1 (8-oz) can sliced mushrooms, drained, in place of fresh mushrooms. If doubling this recipe for a crowd, do so in two separate pans, as 8 cups of water usually won’t fit into a standard 9x13-inch pan and the quality and texture of the final dish might be affected. Tip This dish freezes well. Defrost overnight in the refrigerator. To warm, simply uncover and place in a 200-250°F oven until heated through.

Rec ipe s re pr inted with permission from Marblespoon at Home by Vera Newman, published by Artscroll.

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Meat | Yields 6-8 servings

This is my idea of comfort food. The combination of sweet potatoes and regular potatoes and the little flavor bombs that are these cozy and tender kebabs is so perfect, and the best part is that it all gets roasted at the same time in a sheet pan. Obsessed with this dish, I know you’ll be too! * 1½ lb mini gold potatoes, quartered * 1 large sweet potato, peeled and cubed Marinade * ½ cup olive oil * juice of 1 lemon * ¼ cup fresh parsley, plus more for garnish * 1½ tsp sea salt * 1 tsp paprika * ¼ tsp black pepper Kebabs * 2 lb ground beef * 2 eggs * 1 cup breadcrumbs * ½ small onion, finally diced * ¼ cup fresh mint or parsley, finely chopped * 1 large garlic clove, finely minced * 3 Tbsp olive oil * 2 tsp red wine vinegar * 2 tsp sea salt * ½ tsp paprika * ½ tsp cumin * ½ tsp crushed red pepper * ¼ tsp black pepper Preheat oven to 450°F. Line a large metal baking sheet with parchment paper. Prepare the kebabs: To a large bowl, add ground beef, eggs, breadcrumbs, onion, mint, garlic, olive oil, red wine vinegar, salt, paprika, cumin, crushed red pepper, and pepper. Mix until combined. Prepare the marinade: In a small bowl, combine olive oil, lemon juice, parsley, salt, paprika, and pepper. Place potatoes and sweet potato on prepared baking sheet. Drizzle with ¾ of marinade; toss to coat. Form kebab mixture into about 20 torpedoes; scatter around the potatoes. Drizzle with remaining marinade. Roast for 45 minutes. Garnish with additional fresh parsley, if desired. Tip This dish is best enjoyed fresh. Do not freeze.

NOVEMBER 16, 2023 | The Jewish Home

Sheet Pan Kebab and Potatoes

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Easy Sweet and Sour Chicken Meat | Pesach Option | Yields 4-6 servings

Sometimes, you want Chinese take-out-style sweet-and-sour chicken, and you want it now! This recipe is not only super kidfriendly but also hits the spot when all you want is Chinese food. Easy enough to whip 30 minutes before supper — guaranteed, plates licked clean! * 1 Tbsp + ½ cup oil * 1 red bell pepper, cut into bite-size pieces * 1 small onion, cut into bite-size pieces * pinch salt Chicken * 1½ lb boneless skinless chicken breast, cut into small chunks * 1 egg * ½ tsp sea salt * 1/8 tsp black pepper * ½ cup cornstarch Sweet-and-Sour Sauce * 2/3 cup sugar * ¼ cup + 2 Tbsp ketchup * 1/3 cup apple cider vinegar * 1½ Tbsp soy sauce * ½ tsp garlic powder For Serving * white rice, cooked, optional Add all the chicken ingredients to a bowl; toss to coat. In a large frying pan, heat 1 tablespoon oil over medium heat. Add red pepper, onion, and salt; sauté until soft, about 4 minutes. Transfer to a plate; set aside. Add remaining ½ cup oil to the same frying pan; heat over medium heat. Fry coated chicken in batches until cooked through and crispy. Transfer cooked chicken to a paper towel-lined plate to drain. Prepare the sweet-and-sour sauce: In a bowl, whisk together all sauce ingredients until combined. Add sauce to the frying pan; bring to a gentle simmer over medium heat. Return cooked chicken, peppers, and onions to the pan. Toss to coat; cook for 2-3 minutes. Serve over white rice, as shown, if desired. Note For Pesach, substitute cornstarch with potato starch and soy sauce with imitation soy sauce. Serve over mashed potatoes. Tip This dish is best enjoyed fresh. To warm, place, uncovered, in a 300°F oven until heated through. Do not freeze.

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Pareve or Dairy | Freezes Well | Yields 6-8 servings Many years ago, we joined our neighbor’s Purim seudah, and Shana Cohen, another of my neighbors, was in charge of dessert. After a delicious meal, lots of candy, and alcohol, I couldn’t have dreamed of a more perfect dessert. I remember being enamored of it, so I asked Shana for the recipe. She doesn’t remember where she got it, but it’s an oldie but goodie. I can’t even count how many times this recipe has saved me. It’s literally the perfect dessert to bring to a sheva brachos, a seudah, to serve after a meal with guests, or just as your favorite ice cream topping. I’m so excited to share this recipe because I know it’s going to make lots of people happy! Thank you, Shana, for allowing me to share it here! Crunch Topping * 1 cup nuts (I use Brazil nuts; see note) * ½ cup unsweetened coconut flakes * ½ cup crispy rice cereal * ½ cup brown sugar * 4 Tbsp margarine or butter, melted Strawberry Sauce * 1 (16-oz) bag frozen strawberries * ½ cup powdered sugar For serving * vanilla ice cream Prepare the crunch topping: Preheat oven to 350°F. Line a 9x13-inch pan with parchment paper. Place nuts into a food processor fitted with the S-blade; pulse a few times until ground, being careful not to overprocess. Transfer nuts to prepared pan. Add coconut flakes, cereal, brown sugar, and margarine; mix well to combine. Flatten topping mixture into a single layer. Bake, uncovered, for 15 minutes. Allow to cool before crushing with your hands. Prepare the strawberry sauce: Place strawberries and powdered sugar into a blender; blend until smooth. Refrigerate until ready to serve. To assemble: When ready to serve, scoop ice cream into individual dishes. Drizzle strawberry sauce onto each serving. Sprinkle with a generous amount of the crunch topping. Note Use your favorite nuts for this recipe. I’ve tested them all; my favorite is Brazil nuts, but almonds, cashews, and walnuts also work great. Personally, I don’t love it with peanuts. Tip Both the strawberry sauce and crunch topping freeze beautifully, so you can definitely make a few batches, freeze them, and pull them out as needed for a last-minute delicious and impressive dessert. Thaw the strawberry sauce in the fridge overnight or on the counter for a couple of hours.

NOVEMBER 16, 2023 | The Jewish Home

Ice Cream with Strawberry Sauce and Crunch Topping

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d for Thought

Graze Smokehouse By Nati Burnside

“S

MOKE is our SPICE.” That’s what it says in huge letters right above the counter at Graze Smokehouse. You can’t miss it when you walk in the door. The other thing you can’t miss is the smell. There’s nothing like the scent of smoked meats, and if you love that smell, Graze is the place for you. I was invited to check out all that Graze has to offer, but frankly, that task proved impossible. Not only is the menu full of so many different combinations of their array of amazing eats, they also have an entire page dedicated to their dried meat delicacies. But let’s start at the beginning… If you’re going with a group, the Loaded BBQ Fries are a brilliant choice. These crispy fries have a little of everything on top. There’s pulled beef with chipotle barbeque sauce and pit beans, cheezy sauce and pico de gallo, and don’t forget the jalapeño and chopped onions. If you’re on your own, I wouldn’t fault you for making this your whole meal because the portion size is large enough to make it work. That said, the Loaded Nachos are an even larger plate and are great if you’re splitting with a crowd or even if you’d just rather the house-made chips instead of fries. On the smaller side, try the Smoked Chicken Flautas. You might know these as taquitos, but either way, they’re delicious. The trio of crispy corn tortillas are stuffed with pulled smoked chicken and topped with guacamole and salsa. This appetizer is a great example of how simple combinations can yield an impressive result. The taste is savory, creamy, and spicy, while the texture is that perfect “crunch and mush” we all love so much. (They have these 12 for $36 on their catering menu. You’re welcome.) Moving on to the main part of your meal, there are many roads you could go down. Graze has a whole menu of smoked

meat options that includes sections for beef, birds, and sausages. If you want to get a good sampling of Graze’s smoked meats, I’d suggest you order the Trifecta Platter. It allows you to choose any three meats, and gets you some really good value. Go for the Brisket Burnt Ends (their signature chunks of fatty brisket, BBQ sauce on the side), House Cured Pastrami (salty goodness with the deep smoked flavor that got you in the door), and Smoked Roast Beef (order it cold and enjoy the taste of the beef). If chicken is more your speed, order the Half Chicken Dinner Platter. There’s a lot of care put into this chicken as it’s marinated in apple brine, rubbed with a southern spice blend, and smoked with maple wood. The result is a super juicy and tender one that you won’t want to stop eating. Both of those platters come with one hot side and one cold side of your choosing. If you’re looking for guidance in that area, I’d go with the Mashed Potatoes and Gravy and the Cornbread Muffins. The potatoes have a really creamy consistency and the thick, rich gravy adds to the flavor, while the cornbread has just a touch of sweetness so that it works as a side dish and not as dessert. Though very different, putting stuff between two pieces of bread is also an option for your main course. With a dozen burgers and a dozen sandwiches, the choices are vast as there are many different combinations and permutations of the many meats with various toppings. If there’s something that jumps out at you because it’s a bunch of your favorites on the same item, go for it. The burgers here are a big attraction because the meat is ground in house and uses a blend that features smoked brisket. You can’t get that at your average burger place. The Truffle Mushroom Burger was one of the best burgers I’ve had in a very long time. Firstly, the bun was capable of sup-

porting the contents. That may sound like a small point, but given the components and their size, the bun becomes as crucial as the foundation of a building. The patty carried that hint of smokiness from the brisket, the mushrooms were plentiful and became one with the creamy cheese sauce, and the flavor of the black truffle salt came through nicely in the background. In the treif restaurant world, milkshakes go with burgers. Few places on our side of the street have this combo because pareve milkshakes are hard to do well. But if you’ve ever been curious about the famous combination, get a Salted Caramel Pretzel Milkshake. You can barely tell that the ice cream is pareve, the texture is great (with pretzel pieces blended in), and you’ll almost feel weird having it in a place that’s so inherently fleishig. Revisiting the previously mentioned dried meats, make sure to grab something to take home with you. Under their Holy Jerky brand name (certified by the OU and also available at HolyJerky.com), Graze pumps out some amazing stuff. Unlike the usual food you bring home from a restaurant, this will last for a while (unless your willpower fails you). With more than two dozen different varieties spread out among

jerky, charcuterie, dried sausage, dried salami, and biltong, choosing something might be tough. I loved the Chipotle and Honey Jerky for its mixture of sweet, spicy, and smokey, but there really is something for everyone. They also make boards and platters of all sizes and sell in larger quantities if that’s something you need. Even with everything I’ve already mentioned, there’s still so much more. Not just from the menu (sliders, wings, loaded hot dogs, salads, rice bowls, ribs, deli, meat pizzas, desserts), but also on the business side. Their party room is a huge hit as a spot for sheva brachos (and other occasions) and you can get a slightly abbreviated portion of their menu at their takeout only location in Manhattan (100 West 83rd Street). Let’s just say, they’ve got a lot going on. But that’s their job. Your job is to figure out what to order, and my job is to help. Hopefully, I succeeded.

Meat 529 Central Avenue Cedarhurst, NY (516)-828-5000 GrazeBrands.com Vaad Hakashrus of the Five Towns and Far Rockaway

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In The K tchen

Shawarma Turkey Burger Meat / Yields 4 servings

By Naomi Nachman

With our hearts and minds being with Israel right now, I thought I would share an Israeli inspired recipe from my cookbook, Perfect F lavors. This recipe has all the flavors of a shawarma wrapped up in a burger. You can also make this recipe with ground beef or chicken.

Ingredients

◦ 2 tablespoons canola oil, plus more for frying ◦ 2 onions, chopped ◦ 2 teaspoons kosher salt, divided ◦ 1 pound ground turkey, mix of white and dark

3. Form turkey mixture into patties. Heat oil in a skillet; fry patties until brown on both sides, turning once, about 5 minutes per side.

4. Serve on sesame buns, topped with pickles, hummus, techinah, amba, Israeli Salad Relish (recipe below), and remaining sautéed onions.

◦ 1 tablespoon shawarma spice ◦ 1 tablespoon tahini paste ◦ 1 teaspoon dried parsley ◦ 4 sesame buns

Israeli Salad Relish

Ingredients

◦ ¼ small red onion

◦ Israeli pickles

◦ 1 plum tomato

◦ Hummus, optional

◦ 1 Persian cucumber

◦ Techinah, for serving

◦ 1 tablespoon fresh parsley

◦ Amba, for serving, optional

◦ Juice of ½ lemon

Preparation

1. Heat 2 tablespoons oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add onions

and 1 teaspoon salt; sauté for a few minutes till onions are browned. Set aside to cool.

2. In a medium bowl, combine turkey with remaining teaspoon salt, schwarma spice, tahini paste, and parsley. Add half the sautéed onions to the turkey mixture.

◦ ½ teaspoon kosher salt ◦ 1 tablespoon olive oil

Preparation

1. In a food processor fitted with the “S” blade, pulse vegetables into very tiny

pieces but not pureed.

2. Add lemon juice, salt, and oil. Process for a few seconds until combined.

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.

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Business

Smarts

The Profound Act of Showing Up Professionally By Michelle Mozes

he days that followed Simchat Torah felt like a heavy weight pressing down on me. Getting out of bed was a struggle, and I found myself moving through a fog, unable to fully engage with the present moment. While the clock kept ticking, it felt like my world had hit a standstill. As an entrepreneur, I pride myself on always being present, showing up for clients and giving them the best version of me, but I seemed to have lost touch with who I was and what truly mattered. The news of the ongoing war and the barrage of hateful messages clogging up my Instagram inbox seemed like an overwhelming deluge. Immediately after the holidays, I found solace in the fact that I had tasks awaiting my attention. It was in those moments, working on these projects, that I had the chance to reconnect with my former self, and I was grateful for the clients who still depended on me, giving me the motivation to push myself out of bed and get down to work. Now, five weeks into the war, I’m receiving more and more messages from clients inquiring about my availability and eager to dive back into the realm of business growth. It’s their energy and determination that’s helping me rediscover the person I was before October 7th, and their unwavering resolve to keep moving forward is truly inspiring. It’s in these moments that I’ve come to realize the significance of carrying on despite the challenges. As we anxiously continue to follow the news about Israel, showing up at work for others may seem like an uphill battle. But it’s in moments of heartache and struggle that we have the chance to rise as inspiration for hope, to be a source of support for others, and to fulfill our purpose with unwavering dedication. As professionals, we have the unique opportunity to shape the narrative of our world and infuse it with hope. Our work, driven by purpose, resilience, and a vision

strate your strength and commitment to weathering the storm and emerging stronger on the other side. Your mere presence at work is a reminder that life goes on, even in the face of adversity. It’s a symbol of hope and determination, showing that we, as Jews, can navigate through the darkest times and emerge into the light once more. Your commitment to showing up, even when it’s hard, is an investment in a better future. Being resilient and working today contributes to a more stable and prosperous tomorrow. Remember that resilience is not about denying the hardships; it’s about acknowledging them and rising above.

Persisting in the Face of Uncertainty for a better future, can be a powerful force that cuts through the fog we’re living in and lights the way for others. It’s in these difficult times that we must find the strength and motivation to keep showing up at work for the people who rely on us. During this difficult time, we are presented with a unique opportunity – not only to persevere, but to thrive. When I presented a design project to my client just last week and we found ourselves moved to tears of joy (yes, she was crying happy tears and it was magical), it was a poignant reminder of the importance of pressing on. Here’s how we can re-engage with our work and emerge even stronger than before, armed with the right mindset:

Rediscover Your Purpose Each of us has a reason for choosing our profession, known as our “why.” It’s essential to revisit that purpose, the driving force that led us to our careers in the first place. Our work has the potential to make a difference, whether we’re educators shaping young minds, healthcare professionals healing the sick, or innovative entrepreneurs transforming industries. Let this sense of purpose be your foundation and

motivation to keep being there for those who need you.

Acknowledge Your Wins We might feel guilty or weird about seeking small wins in our profession right now, but those moments of success are furthering the importance of you showing up and continuing to do what you do best. We feel good by helping others, and others feel good by us helping them. If we’re doing our job right, we get out of bed every morning because we believe we can make a difference. Take in every bit of positive feedback and pat yourself on the back for each customer or client who was able to move forward wherever they were stuck because you helped them through it. These small wins keep us going and remind us why our job is important. Hold on to these little happy moments. We need them now, and it serves as motivation to keep going each day.

Keep Showing Up It’s easy to show up when everything is going smoothly, but the true test of resilience comes when the going gets tough. When you continue to show up, you demon-

I know that many of us feel “off” about continuing “business as usual.” When grief weighs heavily on our hearts, the act of showing up becomes an act of courage and resilience. It is a tangible way to make a difference, not just for yourself but for those who depend on you. Whether your role is large or small, your presence matters, and your determination to be present makes a difference in challenging times. Whether you’re greeting a client or posting about your business to social media, you remind us all of the strength that resides within each of us and you contribute to the collective effort of navigating through difficult moments. I am in awe of the countless initiatives supporting Israel by using their businesses and donating proceeds. There are no limits to how much you can reach others and make an impact using your profession and skills.

Michelle Mozes is a brand strategist and business coach who helps mompreneurs launch and run their dream businesses. Download the free branding checklist and run your business with strategy at michellemozes.com.

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Mind Y

ur Business

Reinventing an Industry

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

Since 2015, Yitzchok Saftlas has been speaking with leading industry experts on his weekly radio show, “Mind Your Business,” sharing insightful business and marketing strategies. In this article, we’re going all the way back to take a look at the very first, inaugural edition of “Mind Your Business,” in which Yitzchok sat down to speak with Josh Mohrer, General Manager at Uber.

ing reinvention within your own industry!

1. Embrace the sharing economy A car is often the second most expensive asset that one can own, after their home, and yet, 98% of the time, it’s not even being used. It’s just sitting in a parking space. There are actually eight parking spaces for every car in the U.S.! So, this idea of needing to own a car, I think, is

ly with the driver who’s closest to you, is basically just a better way of doing something that we’ve all been doing for years. Look at the needs within the industry that you’re servicing and try to uncover new, convenient, and efficient ways we can collectively meet them.

2. Craft the experience When you’re a newer company, you have to think of every interaction as a

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n this show, Mohrer shared lessons from his experiences in transforming the transportation industry with Uber. Read on for his top three steps for spark-

“If other companies are trying to do something similar to us, it shows that we’re on to something good.”

just one of those things that we hold on to simply because we haven’t figured out a better way yet. The sharing economy is about looking for collective expenses and needs like this and asking ourselves how we can consume those needs collaboratively. The car service industry has been around for decades. In the past, you would have to use a phone and speak to an operator, who would then send you a car. Now, we see that as the old-fashioned way of getting a ride. Our system, which connects the rider direct-

moment to endorse your brand. For example, we think of our drivers as essentially brand ambassadors for Uber. That’s why every ride ends with a rating from both the driver and the customer. This way, there’s a clear benefit for our drivers to provide a really great experience, because their rating will reflect that. But, providing that kind of experience for your customers also requires taking care of your employees. For example, when you compare driving at Uber to other taxi services, there’s much more flexibility with schedules, less com-

petition with other drivers, and no risk of not getting paid for rides. Benefits like that offer a much less stressful work environment, resulting in a happier and friendlier experience for riders. That leads to great word of mouth promotion, which can be the best kind of marketing for a new company looking for exposure.

3. Welcome the copycats When you carve out a unique niche for yourself, it doesn’t take long for others to try and make their way into your new market. The fact that there are “copycat” companies who create apps that are similar to ours, I think only validates the idea. If other companies are trying to do something similar to us, it shows that we’re on to something good. Ultimately, consumers are going to choose the option that is most cost-effective, convenient and offers the best experience. Getting ahead of competition is really just a matter of staying on top of those metrics. That’s why we focus on how we can offer cheaper rides and shorter pickup times. In the end, you have to welcome competition. I think it’s good for everyone. It’s good for consumers because it encourages us to come up with better ways to serve them. It’s also great for drivers. With these kinds of apps coming online, drivers now have access to so many more opportunities than before. Those are the kind of innovative benefits that only competition can create.

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Notable Quotes “Say What?!”

There are people who plainly want to ignore the Hamas massacre of October 7. They want to wipe Israel off the map. That is what they were chanting for today. They must not and will not succeed… An ancient hatred is rising again in Europe; it must be stamped out. - Former British Prime Minister Boris Johnson

Israel’s internal security agency announced that they will eliminate all participants of the October 7 massacre. The “photojournalists” who took part in recording the assault will be added to that list. - Israel’s UN Ambassador Danny Danon talking about the freelance journalists who worked for AP, the New York Times and other media outlets who were present during the October 7th attack to “document” it on behalf of Hamas

Breaking: Israel announced that it will expel 1.7 million Palestinians. Sorry for the typo, Pakistan announced that it will expel 1.7 million Afghans. No protests in any European capitals. – Tweet by Dr. Eli David

The surge of hate & violence against Muslims, Arabs & Palestinian Americans is alarming. It’s powerfully important that the Biden-Harris administration is developing a national strategy to counter Islamophobia. It’s up to all of us to ensure there’s no space for hate in America. - Tweet By Sen Elizabeth Warren (D-MA)

You misspelled Jews. - Reply by Jeremy Boreing

Remember, there was a ceasefire on October 6, that Hamas broke by their barbaric assault on peaceful civilians. There was a ceasefire. It did not hold because Hamas chose to break it. Hamas have consistently broken ceasefires over a number of years. Israel has a right to defend itself. – Hillary Clinton on “The View”

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There are rumors now that you are putting pressure on Israel to hold off, to cease the offensive. If those rumors are true, I respectfully ask of you, here on my son’s grave, cease and desist; stand back, Mr. President, don’t pressure us. Let us do what we know how to do and what we must do: defeat evil. This is a war of light against darkness, of truth against lies, of civility against murderous barbarism. - Yechiel Leiter, at the funeral for his son Major Moshe Yedidya Leiter, who lost his life fighting in Gaza, addressing Pres. Joe Biden

Take it from one clean-speaking Scrantonian to another: we’re going to win this one, with you or without. We’re going to win it hands down. Never have the people of Israel been so united. This is our job; it’s what the Jewish people are here in this world to do: to fix the world! Sometimes, fixing the world needs strength and force. My Moshe died for a cause, stand with us, Mr. President. Maybe, as we read in the Biblical book of Esther, it is the whole reason you are the leader of the free world. All of your long and illustrious career of leadership was preparation for this very moment. Those who stand with us will be blessed. Those who do not stand with us will fail. Stand with Moshe, who loved America and even trained with the Delta Force during his army service. - Ibid.

Today, ~ 300K people marched in DC in support of Israel & against antisemitism. No one was assaulted. Nothing vandalized. No one hiding behind masks. Lots of American flags. A stark contrast w/ the pro-Hamas protestors. This is a fight between good & evil, & good will prevail. - Tweet by Nikki Haley

I got 75 million votes, much more than that. I believe no president’s ever gotten that many votes and they’ve taken that number of people. And I think you can double it or almost you can triple it in terms of the real the feeling. - Trump talking about the 2020 election in a TV interview

I’m not a religious person or anything, and if there was a G-d, like, this is proof that there isn’t. - Woke soccer player Megan Rapinoe declaring in a press conference that since she injured her foot in her final game there is no G-d

Well, I think that it is proof that there is a G-d; I’m just wondering why He didn’t do it sooner! - One of many social media replies

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I think he always had a deep hatred of Israel in his heart. He hid it very well. He called me to the Oval Office and he said to me, “Alan, you’ve known me for a long time. You know I have Israel’s back.” I didn’t realize he meant to paint a target on it. - Alan Dershowitz on Fox News talking about Barack Obama, who equated Israel to Hamas

He’s never been supportive of Israel. And finally, his true feelings have come out now that he’s no longer president and doesn’t have to be elected. - Ibid.

Two hundred and forty people are held hostage and the world is silent, and there are “buts” and “perhapses.” I’d like to see Mr. Obama if one of his daughters was held hostage by Hamas. In two days, she’d be out, and there’d be no “buts.” – Yael Angel, whose nephew is being held hostage by Hamas talking to Israel’s Channel 12

I’m struggling with it now. I think [Trump] has the policies if he would just follow the script and do what he has to do. - Home Depot founder Bernie Marcus in an interview with Charles Gasparino

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Political Crossfire

For America’s Jews, Every Day Must Be October 8 By Bret Stephens

here used to be a sign (which, for all I know, is still there) somewhere in the CIA’s headquarters that read, “Every day is Sept. 12.” It was placed there to remind the agency’s staffers that what they felt right after the attacks of Sept. 11, 2001 — the sense of outrage and purpose, of favoring initiative over caution, of taking nothing for granted — had to be the mindset with which they arrived to work every day. There ought to be a similar sign in every Jewish organization, synagogue and day school, and on the desks of anyone — Jewish or not — for whom the security and well-being of the Jews is a sacred calling: “Every day is Oct. 8.” What was Oct. 8? It wasn’t just the day after the single greatest atrocity against Jews since the Holocaust, an atrocity whose details were impossible to miss because the perpetrators made sure to film them. It was the day when that atrocity was celebrated. Not just in places like Tehran, Iran, but also on the streets of New York and on too many college campuses. And it was the day in which, instead of it being universally denounced by institutional leaders, we began to see it often ignored or addressed in belated and carefully parsed statements of regret. On Oct. 8, Jews woke up to discover who our friends are not. Our friends are not those members of the Black Lives Matter movement — whose stickers and lawn signs so many American Jews posted in allyship after George Floyd’s murder — who celebrated Oct. 7 with a post extolling the Hamas paragliders who slaughtered Jews at a music festival. Black Lives Matter chapters later apologized for the since-deleted post, but the apology isn’t accepted. They knew what they were doing. Our friends are not those in organizations like Jewish Voice for Peace, which helped organize a much-photographed protest at New York’s Grand Central

Terminal and which could hardly bring itself to say a word of condemnation for Oct. 7 before launching into lengthy justifications. Let’s be clear: They and their sibling groups are being used as Jewish beards for aggressive antisemites.

“fighters” or “militants.” Our friends are not at universities where every third building seems to be named for a Jewish benefactor. Schools like Stanford, which now defends the right of students to chant “from the river

More than 3,800 years of Jewish history keeps yielding the same bracing lesson: in the long run, we’re alone.

Our friends are not those who, until recently, never mentioned that Gaza casualty figures come from a health ministry run by Hamas — a mistake they would never make if, say, they were relaying figures produced by the Russian government. Or who describe the people murdered Oct. 7 as “Jewish settlers,” never mind that they were living in towns and kibbutzim that are part of sovereign Israel. Or who speak of people who murder babies and kidnap elderly women as

to the sea” — a call for the annihilation of an entire state — on free speech grounds are often the same places that, only recently, barred a student from campus for “racist social media posts.” Free speech is fine as a standard, not as a double standard. Our friends are not those in the academic and corporate diversity, equity and inclusion offices or the diversity trainers who think that Jews don’t count as a minority or who try to shunt Ashkenazi

Jews into a “whiteness accountability” group. Diversity that thinks only of race is anti-diversity; inclusion that functionally excludes Jews is not inclusive; equity that treats Jews as second-class victims is not equitable. This should be axiomatic. Our friends are not in the universe of people represented by the likes of Tucker Carlson and the guests on his show. Under the guise of a prudential foreign policy, the neo-isolationist right is morphing into the anti-Israel left, repeating its tropes that Israel is “annihilating Gaza.” These are the people whose thinking would be mainstreamed by a second Trump term. The list could be longer. Knowing who our friends aren’t isn’t pleasant, particularly after so many Jews have sought to be personal friends and political allies to people and movements that, as we grieved, turned their backs on us. But it’s also clarifying. More than 3,800 years of Jewish history keeps yielding the same bracing lesson: in the long run, we’re alone. What can Oct. 8 Jews do? We can stop being embarrassed, equivocal or defensive about Zionism, which is, after all, one of the world’s most successful movements of national liberation. We can call out anti-Zionism for what it is: a rebranded version of antisemitism, based on the same set of libels and conspiracy theories. We can exit the institutions that have disserved us: “Defund the academy” is a much better slogan than defund the police. Jewish America abounds with dreamers and entrepreneurs who took crazy risks in their careers to find value and create things that never existed before. It’s time they apply the same talent and energy to creating new institutions that hew to genuinely liberal values, where Jews need never be afraid. In time, the rest of America may follow. © The New York Times

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Political Crossfire

By Ruben Navarrette Jr.

henever someone calls for a cease-fire in the Gaza Strip – or even, as President Biden prefers to call it, a humanitarian “pause” – I think of one verse in “Neighborhood Bully,” the brilliant 1983 song that Bob Dylan wrote as a tribute to Israel. “Well, the chances are against it, and the odds are slim That he’ll live by the rules that the world makes for him There’s a noose at his neck and a gun at his back And a license to kill him given out to every maniac.” As the number of Palestinian deaths climbs into the thousands, Bolivia has severed diplomatic relations with Israel. And Bahrain, Chad, Chile, Colombia, Honduras, Jordan, South Africa and Turkey have recalled their ambassadors. Welcome to the 2023 edition of “Israel vs. the World.” Since its founding in 1948 as a Jewish homeland after the Holocaust – a nightmarish example of what can happen when Jews are forsaken – Israel has always been, as Dylan put it, “on trial for just being born.” During World War II, Jews had only one goal: to survive. More than 6 million of them didn’t make it, in large part because so much of the world callously shut its doors to Jewish refugees fleeing the Nazis. Who would do that? You’d be surprised. In 2012, during a trip to Israel, the group of Latino journalists I was traveling with visited Yad Vashem, the Holocaust memorial. There, I saw a powerful exhibit on the nations that turned away Jewish refugees in the 1930s and

1940s – country after country. The exhibit also included some of the language used to justify the exclusion of Jews or the names of the ships full of refugees turned away at ports. The world never remembers. Israel will never forget. By the way, the World War II-era “hall of shame” includes the United States. It wasn’t until December 1945 – three months after the Japanese surrendered and World War II officially ended – that President Harry Truman signed an executive order prioritizing the acceptance of refugees who were victims of Nazi persecution. Thanks for nothing, Harry. As a journalist, I’m for the little guy. I’m in this line of work because I believe that, when David stands up to Goliath, the little guy with the sling shouldn’t have to stand alone.

To many people around the world, the Palestinians in the Gaza Strip are the underdogs. Israel has the soldiers, tanks and fighter jets. Palestinian civilians have none of that. Hamas – the terrorist group that sparked all this suffering with a barbaric Oct. 7 attack on Israel that killed more than 1,400 people – has only primitive weapons. Thank goodness, or the Israelis might be burying 10 times as many casualties. Yet the world needs to take a closer look at the Middle East. There are 21 Arab states (22 counting the Palestinian territories) with a total population of more than 400 million people. Compare that with the 9.8 million residents of Israel, a country smaller than Massachusetts. And unlike the United States, which is blessed to be bordered by friends and allies (Canada and Mexico), Israel is surrounded by

Arab states – Lebanon to the north, Syria and Jordan to the east, and Egypt to the southwest. Consider the neighborhood. Lebanon is home to Hezbollah, which fires rockets into Israel. Syria is a hotbed of extremism after its civil war. Jordan and Egypt have peace treaties with Israel, yet both King Abdullah II of Jordan and Egyptian President Abdel Fatah El-Sisi have condemned Israel’s attack on Hamas in Gaza. So, one could argue that, in a broader sense, the little guy in the Middle East is clearly Israel. Yet, when there is a crisis, the global condemnation of Israel is immediate and nearly universal. Recently, the United Nations called for a cease-fire. U.N. Secretary General António Guterres called Gaza a “graveyard for children.” Guterres might have greater moral authority if he didn’t represent an organization with a long history of singling out Israel for criticism. As early as the mid-1970s, the United Nations considered resolutions equating Zionism (the belief that there should be a Jewish state) with racism. According to UN Watch, a Geneva-based watchdog group, in 2022, the U.N. General Assembly passed 15 resolutions condemning Israel compared with 13 resolutions targeting the rest of the world. So why should Israel care what the world wants? With the exception of the United States, what has the world ever done for Israel – and before 1948, for the Jewish people? Not much.

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Once Again, the World Condemns Israel. But Israel Owes the World Nothing

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Political Crossfire

Keep Nikki Haley and Ron DeSantis – and Cut the Rest of the GOP Field By Marc A. Thiessen

he third Republican primary debate made one thing clear: It’s time to cull the GOP field. Yes, five candidates onstage made for a much better debate than seven or eight. But it was still too many. After nine months of campaigning and three nationally televised debates, only two not-Trump candidates have emerged with double-digit support in national polls and the early primary states: Nikki Haley and Ron DeSantis. It’s time for the rest of the candidates to get out of the way and let them fight it out for the chance to take on former president Donald Trump. Right now, the Republican Party is failing its voters by treating this as a normal primary season – keeping the threshold for debate participation low and waiting for voters to winnow the pool of candidates when they start casting ballots. Sorry, but this is not a normal primary season. In truth, there are two GOP primaries: The first is to determine the sole credible challenger to Trump.

The second will be to challenge Trump for the GOP nomination. These must take place sequentially. If the first primary is not resolved conclusively – with one candidate emerging as the clear alternative to Trump – then the second contest will be over before it begins. To make the stage at Wednesday’s debate, candidates needed just 4 percent support in at least two national polls. For the next debate, next month, the threshold will rise to 6 percent. That’s still too low. A candidate who has not broken into double-digit support by now has zero chance of winning the nomination. To make the next debate, candidates should have to demonstrate at least 10 percent support in two national polls. That metric would leave just DeSantis and Haley (and Trump, if he decides to show up) on the stage in December. Anyone who can’t meet that threshold is wasting voters’ time. Former vice president Mike Pence did the honorable thing and stepped

aside when his campaign didn’t catch fire – putting his country ahead of his own ambitions once again. But others keep running long after it is clear they can’t win. Perhaps they want a platform to make a point, or they think that one more debate performance will boost their vice-presidential prospects, or they simply crave attention and don’t want to give up the campaign spotlight. Well, the time for point-making, attention-seeking and using the race to pursue other offices is over. Former New Jersey governor Chris Christie should drop out and challenge Sen. Bob Menendez (D-N.J.), who has been indicted on federal bribery charges. Christie could better serve his party by putting New Jersey’s Senate seat in play. Sen. Tim Scott (S.C.) is a good man with a bright future, but this is not his year. And Vivek Ramaswamy’s attack on Nikki Haley’s daughter in Wednesday’s debate was disgraceful and disqualifying. His campaign, which is little more than a tryout

to inherit the Infowars anchor chair of Sandy Hook truther Alex Jones, should be brought to an ignominious conclusion. By staying in the race long after their campaigns are clearly unviable, the other contenders are helping Trump prevail over a divided field. In Iowa and New Hampshire, Trump is leading with a plurality of about 47 percent, which means that a majority of Republicans support someone else. In South Carolina, an early-voting state, Trump has 49 percent support, which is again not a majority. There is a non-Trump majority to be had, but only if the candidates with no viable path step aside. If they won’t step aside, then they should be pushed aside by losing their places on the debate stage. Because here is the bottom line: It’s either a Haley-DeSantis race to take on Trump, or the entire Republican primary process is little more than a sideshow. (c) 2023, Washington Post Writers Group

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Political Crossfire

By David Ignatius

lya Ponomarev, a renegade former member of Russia’s parliament, has a provocative idea: He argues that the only way to end the Ukraine war on acceptable terms is through a coup that topples Russian President Vladimir Putin. Personally, I think Ponomarev’s plan is potentially dangerous for both the United States and Ukraine. A central precept of Ukraine’s resistance to Russia’s invasion, after all, is that countries shouldn’t send military forces across their borders to foment violence. And while his ideas are intriguing, there’s no way to independently confirm some of the claims and assertions he makes. But given the stalemate that has developed in Ukraine – bluntly described last week by Gen. Valery Zaluzhny, Kyiv’s commander in chief, in an essay in the Economist – unconventional ideas such as Ponomarev’s will get attention. Ukraine and its allies are searching for ways to break out of the bloody deadlock without a negotiated deal that would concede territory to Russia. Ponomarev is deadly serious about his military plot: He described himself in an interview as the political head of a group called the Freedom of Russia Legion, which he claims has an army of four exile battalions – usually numbering about 1,600 people – based in Ukraine, as well as between 5,000 and 10,000 followers in Russia. He helps run a Congress of People’s Deputies, a shadow parliament based in Poland with about 100 members, 40 of them in Russia, he says, that oversees the legion. That group is developing new laws and a new constitution for a post-Putin Russia. It plans a large gathering in Warsaw this month to develop a transition to free elections in Russia. Ponomarev described operations inside Russia: a drone attack on the Kremlin in May by an urban guerrilla group loosely affiliated with Ponomarev and the Congress of People’s Deputies; the legion’s raids on Belograd and Shebekino

just inside the Russian border in June; and what he claims are daily sabotage attacks on railway lines inside Russia. He said the group is building toward a decisive march on Moscow. The Russian exile leader also linked his group to the August 2022 assassination of Darya Dugina, the daughter of a prominent Russian nationalist writer. U.S. intelligence officials had blamed that

tacks is simple,” explained Ponomarev. “We want to send a message to all supporters of the government. If you have a relationship to the war, you are not safe.” As Ponomarev calmly laid out his coup plans in a Washington living room, he didn’t sound like a fanatic revolutionary, but like the parliamentarian and business executive he was before he embraced émigré politics. He said that

He argues that toppling Putin is the only way to stop the grinding war of attrition in Ukraine

attack on Ukrainian intelligence and said they opposed it, according to an October 2022 account in the New York Times. Ponomarev said his group works closely with Ukrainian intelligence. Ponomarev also claimed unspecified roles in two attacks this year on pro-Kremlin figures: the April assassination of a pro-war blogger named Vladlen Tatarsky and the May attempted killing of pro-Kremlin writer Zakhar Prilepin. “The rationale for these personal at-

after voting in the Duma against Russian annexation of Crimea in 2014, he started an oil and gas business in Kyiv called Trident Acquisitions that’s now listed on Nasdaq. He likened himself to Charles de Gaulle, who organized a tiny French force to fight against the Nazi-backed French government in World War II. “In a crisis, a small, disciplined force can play a decisive role,” he said. And that’s precisely his aim. By recruiting Russian volunteers (he says he gets 1,000

applications a month, which he vets down to 40 reliable recruits), he hopes he can build a force that will march on Moscow, in the way Yevgeniy Prigozhin’s militias did in June. Prigozhin halted his march and later died in a mysterious plane crash. But Ponomarev says he won’t stop. He argues that toppling Putin is the only way to stop the grinding war of attrition in Ukraine. “What’s the light at the end of the tunnel? Regime change. It’s the cheaper alternative,” he insisted. Ponomarev said he has support for his coup-plotting from Ukraine’s military intelligence service – and strong opposition from the United States. The message he has received from U.S. officials, he says, is: “We don’t want to be part of it.” Right now, Ponomarev’s campaign seems more a series of modest trial runs than a full-fledged operation. Take the May 3 drone attack on the Kremlin. Ponomarev said the group smuggled several Ukrainian drones into Russia. Members fired one toward the Kremlin from east of the city and a second from southwest. They were carrying just one kilogram of explosives and didn’t do much damage, Ponomarev admitted, but they were meant to demonstrate the ability to hit a precise target. Ponomarev considered it a triumph, of sorts, when Putin scaled back the planned Victory Day celebration of World War II triumphs in May – perhaps because the drone attack had worried the public. He said his followers have “several” more drones on ice for future attacks. Russian history is a long story of coup plots and conspiracies, real and imagined. Regime change, he told me, requires three elements: a credible military force; domestic elites who are losing hope in the status quo; and an alternative government. Ponomarev said he is working on all three. (c) 2023, Washington Post Writers Group

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Could This Man Bring Down Putin?

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Forgotten Her es

Heroes Fighting Hamas By Avi Heiligman

Corporal Matan Abergil, Hy”d

ust one day after commemorating the 50th year since the breakout the Yom Kippur War, Israel was again attacked. Like the Yom Kippur War, this also was a surprise assault. Intelligence agencies failed to recognize the magnitude of the buildup of enemy forces until the attack began. Caught in the crosshairs were thousands of Israeli civilians and soldiers who were brutally murdered, beaten and taken hostage until the IDF were able to respond in force. At least 1,400 people were killed by Hamas, and the horrors perpetrated by Hamas terrorists soon became known to the public. Shortly after the attack on October 7, stories of heroism began to circulate in the media of soldiers and civilians who put themselves in harm’s way to protect others. Corporal Matan Abergil, Hy”d ,was a 19-year-old from Hermesh when he and his fellow soldiers from the Golani Brigade heard of the attack. They rushed to Kibbutz Nir Am near the breach of the Gaza border fence. However, soon they were surrounded by Hamas terrorists in their APC (armored personnel carrier) when a grenade landed inside. Matan jumped on the grenade and saved the other six soldiers in the APC. His last words were: “I tried to do everything to protect the people of Israel.” Two unnamed Bedouin soldiers from the IDF’s desert reconnaissance unit were at the Re’im Base when the attack began. The base, near where the music festival massacre was occurring, was targeted by Hamas terrorists. One of the soldiers took

Inbal Rabin-Lieberman

off the top of his army uniform to try to blend in with the terrorists. He told them in Arabic to come towards him, and they listened to him, thinking he was a terrorist. The other Bedouin soldier, the commander of the unit, then opened fire on the exposed terrorists, killing many Hamas terrorists and saving countless Israeli lives. They held off the terrorists for an hour until Shaldag commandos arrived to clear the base of the enemy. The Bedouin commander ordered a successful airstrike on an occupied

Major Noam Tivon

terrorists were killed in the initial confrontation. For the next three and a half hours, the response team, led by Inbal, held off the attackers. It was reported that she killed many of the 25 terrorists that were eliminated by her team. Due to Inbal’s quick actions, no one in the kibbutz was killed. Major Noam Tivon, 61, is a reservist and was in Tel Aviv when his son told him that there were terrorists near his house in Nachal Oz. The roads were partially blocked, but Tivon managed to drive his

For the next three and a half hours, the response team, led by Inbal, held off the attackers.

building on the base and eliminated many Hamas terrorists. Inbal Rabin-Lieberman, 25, was the security coordinator for Kibbutz Nir Am and previously had served in the IDF with a combat K-9 unit. On the morning of the attack, she heard noises that turned out to be a terrorist trying to infiltrate the perimeter of the kibbutz. Then she heard air raid sirens and made the decision to call together the twelve member response group. The team set up on the perimeter and began engaging terrorists who, by this time, were trying to scale the fence. Several Hamas

jeep to link up with a commando unit. Together with the force, Noam charged at and killed several Hamas terrorists. After helping two wounded people with his vehicle, he continued on to his son’s house. His son, daughter-in-law and two granddaughters were hiding in a safe room and had stayed there until Noam came to the rescue. From there, he continued fighting with paratroopers as they cleared the rest of the kibbutz of terrorists. He said of the attack, “My impression is that it’s like the Yom Kippur war – we were surprised, there are things that need to be checked, but now

we need to win and crush Hamas, Gaza must pay the price. We have no other way. I saved my family and other friends today, but there are still many dead and wounded, so there is no joy. There is determination.” K-9 units were heavily involved in the fighting during the attack. At Kfar Aza, a canine by the name of Naro was sent to find terrorists that may have been hiding. He found much more as he alerted his handlers to an ambush that Hamas had set up. The soldiers then eliminated the terrorists, but Naro was killed in the fighting. Another canine was credited with finding a Hamas commander who was hiding. The terrorist was captured by soldiers from the K-9 unit. Canines were instrumental in rescuing trapped civilians while under fire. Several hostages were rescued by this unit, and many more terrorists were killed after the canines alerted their handlers to their positions. These are just a few of the many stories of those who fought to save countless lives during the Hamas attack. These heroes’ sacrifices need to be remembered for their protection for Israel, its citizens and the Jewish nation abroad. We daven for the protection of the IDF soldiers who are currently fighting Hamas in Gaza and defending Israeli borders on all fronts.

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 FAR ROCKAWAY CEDARHURST

Quality New Construction!!!

Stucco Col. Col. with 26+ Story 9 ft Ceilings, 14 Zone which Brick C/H BREntry Banquet FDR, Lg FLR,Heat Chefs includes Radiant Heat, Anderson Windows with Lots of Natural EIK Main Lvl 3:00-4:30 Den,Fin Bsmt,Playroom, 2 BR, Laundry, OPEN HOUSE 223 Hickox Avenue Light Throughout, Flr Fdnr, Magnificent Chefs Eik with High End Totally renovated New. High Ceilings, Chefs $3.1M Appliances, DbleColonial. Ovens , 6Like Burner Cooktop with Pot Filler,EIK, 5

Bdrms. Prime Woodmere 2 Dishwashers, and more.location! Master Bdrm Suite with Luxurious Bath $1.659M and Walk in closet,+4 Bdrms and 2 Beautiful Bths ,2nd Flr

Laundry Rm , Full Finished Basement with 10 ft Ceilings Huge Playrm 2 Bdrms and Bth laundry Rm storage, Beautiful Manicured Garden.

WOODSBURGH CEDARHURST HEWLETT

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 WOODMERE LAWRENCE

Spacious Wide Line Expanded Ranch on Most Prestigious and Spacious Split Level Home In Prestigious Academy Serene Cul-de-Sac in Village of Lawrence , Main Flr Master Bdrm Area. Lg EIK, w/2 sinks, Attic,Main Lower lvl & Bath, OPEN HOUSE 12:30-1:30 1068 Suite with Many Closets andFLR/FDR, Bthrm, Addional Flr highland Bdrm Center HallBsmt, Colonial with Main Level 3rooms, BRs 23Bths Baths Lg Flr Fin Fdnr Huge Den, EIK, Mudrm, +Den 4 Bdrms onFinished Second Flr, Den Playroom & 2 Add’l Oversized Basment Beautiful Property Beautiful Wrap Around Property, $1.690M Prop. $1.1 $999K

CO-OPS/CONDOS WOODMERE CO-OP CEDARHURST LAWRENCE

OPEN HOUSE 1:00-2:00

261 Central Ave 1st Floor, Large Entry Foyer, Open Concept Kitchen. Large LR/DR Overlooking the Courtyard $229K

LAWRENCE

240 Central Avenue Spacious 1 Bdrm 1 Bth Apt in Well Maintained Elevator Bldg with Terrace Overlooking Garden, Near All $229K

FAR ROCKAWAY

This spacious s/h col , in the prestigious village of woodsburgh, sits on 1/2 acre property in a. most serene setting, with beautiful waterviews, and magnificent sunsets . Flr banquet , Turn Key Expanded Ranch Nestled in quietfdnr CulCOMMERCIAL RENTAL! NEW! 9 ,Room Drbdrm officesuite Suite, Located breakfast rm, main level den /fpl master with his de-sac. EIK,Main floor primary suite, Great room inand theher Heart of Cedarhurst, room, Reception closets and bth + 4Spacious bdrms , waiting new bths, newly renovated Area and Exam Rooms, alllaundry on Main Floor. Close to of Public includes Family/ Dining area, 2playrm, ad’l oversized bdrms, finished basement with rm, lots storage, Transportation many special details thruout $1.9M+ finished basement, 2 tiered Deck & Fenced Property $6,000

S.D. 14 $995K

156 B 9th St Mint 2BR, 2 BTH Beachfront Condo with Wraparound Terrace, Magnificent Sunrise1 & Sunset Large BR, 1 BTH, Open Floor Plan, FLR FDR $589K 29 Woodmere Blvd Apt 2B Renovated, Corner 1 Bdrm Kitchen w/Breakfast area, all newMint, carpeting,many with 9ft Ceilings. Spacious Eat In Kitchen, 2 Sinks, Granite closets,terrace,gardens. $329k Lvgrm/Dnr and Large Counter tops and S.S. Appliances.Large Bdrm/BR with Lots of Windows REDUCED $299K

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Classifieds

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HOUSES FOR SALE

HEWLETT Exquisite contemporary colonial residence boasts a prime location set back from the street, enhancing its striking curb appeal. With 5 bedrooms and 3 bathrooms, this move-inready home is bathed in natural light thanks to its four spacious skylights. Expansive formal dining room, full basement offers 8-foot ceilings. Stunning inground gunite pool and a beautifully designed patio in the well-landscaped yard. Located in school district 14 and conveniently close to all amenities, this property is a rare find that won’t stay on the market for long! Mark Lipner Associate Broker Berkshire Hathaway Laffey International 516-298-8457

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

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 New listing 5-bedroom 4 bathroom split level home in school district # 15, hardwood floors, central air conditioning, minutes to all $899k Mark Lipner Associate Broker Berkshire Hathaway Laffey International 516-298-8457 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 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 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

HEWLETT-WOODMERE School district - New to the market 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, November 19 12-2:00PM • 1027 Dartmouth Lane 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

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 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 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, NOVEMBER 19, 11:30-1:00PM • 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

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HOUSES FOR SALE 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

OFFICE SPACE/STORAGE LARGE ROOM Available for rent in Far Rockaway. Private entrance. Call or text 917-678-4121 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

APT./COOP/CONDO SALE

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

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

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132

Classifieds

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APT./COOP/CONDO SALE

ISRAEL REAL ESTATE

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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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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

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

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.

MDS REGIONAL NURSE 5 Towns area Nursing Home management office seeking a Regional/Corporate level MDS Nurse to work in our office. Must be an RN. Regional experience preferred. 2-3 years MDS experience with good computer skills required. Position is Full Time but Part Time can be considered. Great Shomer Shabbos environment with some remote options as well. Email: officejob2019@gmail.com

ORTHODOX SHUL IN Hewlett looking to hire a youth coordinator for Shabbat and Sunday. Good opportunity for young couple to make extra income. Please email to sch.shul@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

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

BOOKKEEPER Excellent growth potential, Frum environment, Excellent salary & benefits. Email resume to: resumetfs1@gmail.com DEVELOPMENT ASSISTANT A multi-tasker needed for general office work. The ideal candidate is someone who is detail-oriented, responsible, and can take ownership. Looking for someone who is eager to learn, and expand his/her skill set while possessing the ability to work independently and as part of a team. Experience with Excel required. Five Towns location. In-office position only, not remote. Please send resume to 5tpart.timecareer@gmail.com

ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT Mesivta Shaarei Chaim is looking for a part time, experienced, Administrative Assistant. Monday- Thursday for 3 hours between 2:30 and 6:00 Please send resume to rdniman@gmail.com.

MISC. SHMIRAS HALASHON Text 516-303-3868 with a time slot of your choice to be careful on lashon hara. Be a part of the 1,000 people for klal yisroel!

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The Jewish Home | NOVEMBER 16, 2023

Your

Money

No Place Like Home By Allan Rolnick, CPA

enerations ago, you only saw into your neighbor’s home if they invited you in for apple pie and dessert. Or maybe you were able to catch a glimpse of their den if they left their shades open after dark. But Zillow has changed all that. Now, you can tour the fanciest home on your block without ever knocking on the door. Still, while Zillow.com has made it easier to see if your neighbors have carpet or parquet in their living room, it’s left a big heaping helping of envy. What else would you feel after seeing that, say, British billionaire Bernie Ecclestone’s 23-year-old daughter Petra paid $85 million for a 123-room mansion in LA’s Holmby Hills neighborhood? It’s hard enough to see someone your own age scoring a crib like that. It’s even more envy-inducing when you realize she bought it before she was old enough to rent a car! Buying a home has gotten more and more challenging as both prices and interest rates move up. That means more and more parents are looking for ways to help their children accomplish that goal. Naturally, taxes play a part. If you can’t drop $85 million for your daughter’s house, you could give her

money for a down payment on something more modest. However, gifts of more than a $17,000 annual exclusion count towards your lifetime unified credit for gift and estate taxes. You won’t actually pay any tax until your lifetime gifts above that $17,000/year top that unified credit (currently $12,920,000). If you’re married, you and your spouse can

a time machine and go back to 1974 to buy a house?) If your pockets are deeper, consider “being the bank” for the whole house. As long as you follow proper legal formalities, your daughter can write off interest on up to $750,000 of debt, just like she would with a commercial lender. You’ll have to charge interest at least equal to

Gen Zers: if you’d spend less on avocado toast and more on researching particle physics, maybe you could buy a time machine and go back to 1974 to buy a house?

give $17,000 each. And if your daughter is married, you can do the same for your amazing son-in-law, bringing your total annual gift to $68,000. Do it fast because there aren’t many places left where she can buy a home with $68,000 down! (Gen Zers: if you’d spend less on avocado toast and more on researching particle physics, maybe you could buy

the applicable federal rate, or any difference will be treated as a gift. But, that rate will generally be lower than anything they could get at a bank—it’s currently under 5%. It also avoids underwriting headaches. (There really is no such thing as a “rocket” mortgage.) You can even choose to waive that interest, up to the same annual dollar limits

we just discussed, with no estate tax consequence. Another option would be to buy a house yourself to lease to your daughter. You’ll get to deduct the same operating expenses you would with any other rental property. However, this strategy means the home’s growing equity accrues to you (and winds up in your taxable estate) rather than your child. If that’s an issue, consider establishing an irrevocable trust to buy the house and let her live there. Tax planning doesn’t always involve complicated spreadsheets or government forms. Sometimes, it just means understanding tax-smart ways to make ordinary financial decisions. Buying a home is one of the most important decisions your daughter will make, and seeing the smile on her face when she takes the key will be far more rewarding than putting money into a year-end truck purchase or SEP contribution!

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.

135

Life C ach

By Rivki D. Rosenwald Esq., LMFT, CLC, SDS

o you know how, if you have an early flight to catch, you get no sleep? First you just can’t fall asleep early enough the night before. You try, but you either keep remembering one more thing you need to pack or your body just won’t cooperate. Then, you stay in bed worrying you’re not planning to leave for the airport early enough. And even when you’re about to fall asleep, you get concerned you won’t hear the alarm anyway. So you then compensate by waking up throughout the night. You inevitably wake up at 2 a.m., then 4 a.m., then maybe 5, and then reluctantly at 6 a.m. Well, that happened to me this morning. Once again! And then, of course, I got to the gate in plenty of time! Even had 40 minutes to spare. Oh, make no mistake, I still came running for the boarding line at the last minute. Because who doesn’t grab their stuff and run for the bathroom, just in case they are locked in their seatbelt for a while till the captain decides to turn off the seatbelt sign! And, of course, who doesn’t stop for a snack and a drink? After all, we don’t want to STARVE on the plane, do we?! And we know it’s possible that the servers might delay passing out the “generously sized” bag of pretzels, or worse, they

might only have those questionably kosher lotus cookies to distribute. And since it’s an A.M. flight, one must stop at the inevitably long coffee line. Just made with water, coffee, milk and maybe a sweetener or two – what exactly takes so long?! And before you know it, that brings the person back for boarding just in time to catch group 7. Even if they had priority boarding, they’re just making the last group. Because having food “always”

have shlepped it with you through the entire airport, even maneuvering it uncomfortably into your bathroom stall with you. If you’re calm, but persistent enough, you probably do get to keep it with you. But, you better know exactly what you need out of it because there is certainly no generous space to spread it out and start searching. Ergo, for most people, the second bag they are shlepping. Finally, you squeeze into your seat ready to relax but the person in front of

Life’s often about what happens while we are busy making other plans.

trumps boarding early and practically everything else. Then breathing a little stressfully, you begin to board but get stopped to size your carry-on, even though it was the perfect size the last ten times you flew. And when they give you the nod to take it on with you, they still try to wrestle it from you at the plane door, claiming there’s no room left on the plane for your carry-on. Obviously, if you had time to hang out at the carousel waiting for it, you wouldn’t

you has decided to lay back for a bit or alternatively the kid behind you has decided to unleash his ADD on the back of your chair, which is not the biggest issue, because at takeoff, everyone has to straighten up their seat and the parent usually hands his kid his iPad. So you’re ready to do your thing, work, read, watch a movie – all good. You get yourself set and pull down your tray table, which, within minutes, you are told to put back up. It seems you just forgot that it’s not

actually considered to be there until you’re up in the sky. So you reposition yourself as comfortably as you can, psyched to get stuff done. You’re happy to have the next few hours to catch up. You’re set, you begin to concentrate. You’re reading, typing, emailing, or watching and your eyes are closing, closing, closing… And off you go, into that world of sleep, you just missed out on all night! So much for getting an early jump on the day! But you do get where you were heading earlier than if you had taken a later flight. Except, if you’re one of the unlucky ones who still needs to stop at the carousel to wait for your carry-on to come around. And round and round it goes! No big deal. Life’s often about what happens while we are busy making other plans. So plan on being a mensch and resilient, and you can’t go wrong!

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 917705-2004 or at rivkirosenwald@gmail.com.

NOVEMBER 16, 2023 | The Jewish Home

Come Along For the Ride

The Jewish Home | NOVEMBER 16, 2023

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