Five Towns Jewish Home 1.18.24

January 18, 2024

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Dear Readers,

A

s the war rages in Israel, the entire Jewish nation feels as if they’re part of the battle.

Each person in this battle has their role to play. Some are doing their part by davening and learning and adding more chessed to their day. Others are physically giving to those on the frontlines, sending them needed items and providing morale support. Some are helping those families who have been displaced from their homes, living in makeshift apartments or in small hotel rooms. Others are visiting hospitals to help those who have been injured. And then there are those who are physically donning the uniforms of the IDF, clutching their weapons, and heading into Gaza.

Each person in that uniform is a child, a child whose parents think about them constantly, who yearn for their return, and who pray for their safety. There are thousands of soldiers in the army, and hundreds of them are actively at risk each day. How do their parents continue on with their lives, knowing that their child is putting their life in danger?

Each person, when presented with similar circumstances, will act differently. But one thing I noticed, based on the article in this week’s issue, “Immas of Those in the IDF,” is that mothers with sons in the army feel it’s their duty to project to their children feelings of pure love and strength. They are pillars of courage and determination for their children, presenting them with a support system so strong and

so resilient that their children know that their parents will never waver in their support. Yes, these mothers are quaking with fear inside, but to their children, they are bastions of faith and fortitude.

With those feelings of support, their children go off to battle. They know that their mothers go about their days with silent prayers on their lips; they know that their mothers will have them on their minds while they go shopping and do laundry and prepare supper. When they’re filling their grocery carts, their minds are on their sons in Gaza, hoping, wishing, praying for their safety.

There is nothing like a mother’s prayer for her children. Her cries are profound and intense. They come from a part of her that is connected to her children by an invisible but indestructible thread, a piece of her that is bonded with her child indefinitely. That thread ensures that even though her child may not be with her, her thoughts are never far away. She may be in her home in Jerusalem, but her heart is in Gaza.

And her prayers, so fervent and so powerful, send waves of support to her son so many miles away.

May Hashem bring all our soldiers back home to their mothers safely. And may we see an end to this fighting soon, with all our people back in their homes and in their mother’s embrace.

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

Nate Davis Editorial Assistant Nechama Wein Copy Editor Rachel Bergida Shana Brecher Lani White Design & Production Gabe Solomon Distribution & Logistics P.O. BOX 266 Lawrence, NY 11559 Phone | 516-734-0858 Fax | 516-734-0857 Classified Deadline: Monday 5:00PM classifieds@fivetownsjewishhome.com text 443-929-4003 PAYMENT VIA CREDIT CARD MUST BE SUBMITTED ALONG WITH CLASSIFIED ADS The Jewish Home is an independent weekly magazine.

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Shabbos Zemanim

Weekly Weather | January 19 – January 25

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Candle Lighting: 4:38 pm Shabbos Ends: 5:42 pm Rabbeinu Tam: 6:10 pm

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Contents LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

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COMMUNITY Readers’ Poll

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Community Happenings

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NEWS Global

12 National

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That’s Odd

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ISRAEL

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Israel News

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We Can’t Talk About Israel in an Echo Chamber by Kylie Ora Lobell 70 World Builders

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Immas of Those in the IDF

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Victory is More Important than U.S. Support by Caroline B. Glick

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JEWISH THOUGHT Rabbi Wein on the Parsha

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Double Darkness by Rav Moshe Weinberger

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The Five Spiritual Stages of the Creative Process by Rabbi Shmuel Reichman 78 Delving into the Daf by Rabbi Avrohom Sebrow

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Tu B’Shvat: A Lesson in Wealth by Rabbi Benny Berlin

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Headlines and Halacha by Rabbi Yair Hoffman

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Secrets of a Connected Marriage

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PEOPLE Inspiration Nation

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Jewish Heroes in Battle by Avi Heiligman

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HEALTH & FITNESS Fad Diets by Tehila Soskel, RDN, CDN

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FOOD & LEISURE A Carnivore’s Tour of Kosher Steakhouses by Barbara Deutsch

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The Aussie Gourmet: Rack of Ribs

107 LIFESTYLES

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Dating Dialogue, Moderated

by Jennifer Mann, LCSW

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Parenting Pearls

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School of Thought

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JWOW!

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Mind Your Business

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Your Money

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

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HUMOR Centerfold

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POLITICAL CROSSFIRE Notable Quotes

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The Path to Peace in the Middle East by David Ignatius

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Austin’s Dereliction Undermined the Crucial Chain of Command

by Marc A. Thiessen

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CLASSIFIEDS

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Dear Chosen Island Diner, My wife and I are trying to find out who you are.

On the evening of Tuesday, January 2, we were visiting family in the Five Towns and decided to eat at Chosen Island at around 5:30/6PM. We were enjoying our dinner with our baby daughter (and trying to keep her quiet and not disturb people) and you were seated at a table over from us, enjoying your dinner.

We asked for the bill at the same time as you. The waiter brought ours and then brought yours.

You stood up, turned your back to us, and talked to the waiter but we couldn’t hear anything. You then walked with him behind the glass.

Our waiter then came back and announced that there was a mistake with our bill and took it away from us. He came 4-5 minutes later saying that you had paid for our dinner. You were long gone by then.

My wife and I stared at each other in shock, wondering what just happened.

We then went over the waiter and wanted to leave him a tip, he told us, “You already took care of the tip” (we still left him a tip).

We wanted to say thank you. We would also love to know why you did it?

Please email us at zerashim18@gmail. com.

R & Y from New Jersey Dear Editor, While I agree with the message of “Seeking more hakaras hatov” in the letters section of the Jan. 12 edition, I think the writer has made a hugely incorrect assumption about many post-yeshiva-tuition parents. Many parents still struggle

for years after their kids have graduated and become independent. Many of their children are, in fact, NOT independent.

Many marry young and are in Kollel and are not receiving much, if any, income.

Parents are still supporting them. Even if the children are sufficiently income independent, some parents are retired and on a limited budget. Many have enormous medical expenses. If you want a glimpse of how many poor post-tuition parents live in the Five Towns, view how many are receiving Tomchei Shabbat boxes so that they can have a nice Shabbat meal.

Contrary to what the writer stated, yeshiva tuition is not the largest monthly expense. The mortgage bill is! This expense can continue for many years after the children have graduated yeshiva.

I agree that those that can afford it should contribute something back to the yeshivot in some way. But, it is grossly wrong and unfair to assume that many people can do so. Some not only can’t afford a cent, but they are seeking scholarships at the same yeshiva for their grandchildren.

Daniel Feldman Dear Editor, The Gemara in Yevamos (62a) says, “The Son of David won’t come until all of the souls from Heaven come down into this world.” The Tosephos Yeshanim asks on this Gemara from another Gemara in Shabbos (118b) that says, “If the Jewish people hold two consecutive Shabbosim, they would immediately be redeemed.” He asks, how could we be redeemed immediately if all the souls from heaven haven’t come down yet? A different Tosephos answers this by saying that multiple births would occur as we saw in Mitzrayim.

Continued on page 10

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Continued from page 8

From this discussion, one can see the greatness of Shabbos, as it has the power to bring geulah. When the Chofetz Chaim was asked by people for beachos, he would say, “go to” Shabbos, for that is where bracha lies. We saw this firsthand when two kibbutzim that held Shabbos were spared from the October 7th massacre.

It’s no coincidence that after the massacre, Rabbi Zilberstein, shlita, recommended that everyone should take upon themselves two extra things to do for Shabbos.

Shabbos has another boundless quality. The Zohar notes that chiddushei Torah arrived at on Shabbos go back to Heaven with the neshamah yeteira and are celebrated by G-d and all the souls in heaven.

Therefore, on Shabbos, whether you have one new insight, an innovative question that brings greater understanding or achieve greater clarity in a Gemara, in Heaven they will be dancing for you. This would explain one reason why Shabbos is called mei’ein Olam Habah, a taste of the Next World, for it is there that everyone sits and experiences the glory of G-d with His Torah.

Steven Genack

Dear Editor, It was a surprise to me to read Mrs. Barbara Deutsch’s article “A Summons” in the January 11th issue. It was exactly that day when I had mailed a letter to the Town of Hempstead complaining about a summons received from them because I did not stop for a school bus. Because it was a “second time” I did so, they fined me an even higher amount than the first time, $ 275, no less.

In my letter I reported that when I received the first such fine I did not remember that episode and thought, incredulous as I was because in over 40 years this had never happened to me, that I might not have noticed driving by a school bus with flashing lights, so I just paid it. This second time, however, a few weeks later, I remembered that the bus was simply waiting at the curb, without the STOP sign and flashing lights. The bus still recorded me passing by but the video does not show that it was using its signals.

Then, after mailing my complaint, I mentioned this in my office, and not one but two people responded, one saying the same just happened to him too; the other mentioning that it had happened to someone she knew.

I paid the fine because I have no witness and thus no chance to win, and

because taking off a day to sit in a court waiting room and lose in the end is not worth the money; perhaps I should not have done so. But I made it clear in my letter that this is not about the money but the integrity of the system. I asked if the school bus has any technical way to assure that the video of a driver passing the bus can only be taken while the flashing lights and STOP sign are activated. I suspect this is not the case.

It appears to me that this is a new method municipalities or counties have discovered as a source of income, and we drivers can be prepared that we are going to receive more of these unjust fines for something we did not do. The authorities know very well that for most of us, there is no way to win and we cannot afford the ordeal of an unsuccessful court appearance.

Dr. Joseph Donath Dear Editor, Migrants being transferred overnight from the Floyd Bennett Field shelter to Madison High School in Brooklyn due to poor weather conditions should come as no surprise to anyone. Everyone already knew that the temporary shelter built at Floyd Bennett Field was not designed to deal with inclement weather, storms and cold winters. Both children and adults living at this and other shelters have never been fully screened, tested and vaccinated as citizens are. Who pays for transportation of migrants back and forth, along with cleaning the school? Never shy around a microphone or camera, 1967 Madison High graduate and Senate Majority leader Charles Schumer is nowhere to be found. He has never visited the border, Floyd Bennett Field or his alma matter to see firsthand how President Biden’s open border policy is destroying our nation. Schumer abandoned his old Madison Brooklyn neighborhood long ago. He has forgotten his old neighborhood roots for the bright lights of Washington elites.

Sincerely, Larry Penner Great Neck, NY Dear Editor, Rejection is painful. When someone you love and care so deeply for rejects you with no explanation the pain is in-

finite. It’s important to have a friend you can trust and feel safe with. How do you keep moving forward when your supposedly good friend hurts you deeply and acts as if you’re invisible other than spitting out hurtful, hostile comments? It’s significantly important to value your selfworth! When you work on your value and your importance, it diminishes the level of intensity.

Second, we must constantly remind ourselves that others cannot break us!!

You are strong and loved! Others don’t define your worth. Don’t allow others to dominate you. Look for healthy people and healthy relationships. The pain you are feeling from the rejection needs to be recognized, however, it’s unhealthy to sit in the pain for long. By creating new relationships and believing you are worthy and proud for who you are shrinks the other person in your eyes and toughens you up. Don’t allow others to knock you down!

You are much better than that. Unfortunately for them, they are rejecting someone beautiful and respected. Once we get to the point of acceptance, we start to feel free. We start to recognize that there is a lot more beauty around us. We can start to see others that we haven’t really noticed before and start to spread new wings with healthy and positive people.

Bearing a challenge is hard, and no one wants to accept it. We tend to get consumed in the feelings of anger, pain, and resentment. As stated above, it’s important to acknowledge these feelings and process them. After that, we can come to a place of acceptance. Acceptance doesn’t mean that the pain dissipates. Reaching a place of acceptance of the situation is when you feel liberated. Yes, there are moments to feel the pain and that is important, but we need to be careful to not drown in the pain. The beauty of acceptance is that acceptance allows you to achieve greater things. When we accept a situation that is difficult and painful, we can expand our wings and soar higher and further. Challenges in the moment seem to take us down but with support and acceptance we rise to greater heights.

Lift yourself up and soar to the greatest heights!

Sora Kitay

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The Week In News

U.S., U.K. Strike Back at Houthis

In response to recent Houthi attacks on ships in the Red Sea, the United States and the United Kingdom launched over 100 precision-guided munitions, hitting over 70 targets in 28 Houthi-controlled areas of Yemen on Thursday, January 11.

Attacked Houthi resources include air defense radar systems, depots, munitions, production facilities, command and control nodes, and launching systems.

“Today, at my direction, U.S. military forces – together with the United Kingdom and with support from Australia, Bahrain, Canada, and the Netherlands – successfully conducted strikes against a number of targets in Yemen used by Houthi rebels to endanger freedom of navigation in one of the world’s most vital waterways,” said U.S. President Joe Biden, adding that he will “not hesitate to direct further measures to protect our people and the free flow of international commerce as necessary.”

A day later, British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak said the airstrikes were launched in an effort to “de-escalate tensions and to restore stability to the region.”

This is the first time the U.S. has launched strikes in Yemen against the Houthis. A large number of Houthi assets have been destroyed as a result of the attack, according to a senior U.S. official.

Houthi spokesperson Yahya Sare’e said that five militants were killed and six more were injured as a result of the attacks. Arab leaders have been quick to criticize the U.S. and U.K.’s actions.

The Houthis are an Iran-backed militia group that took over parts of Yemen in 2014, triggering an all-out civil war in the West Asian country. As many as 377,000

people have died as a result of the civil war. In recent months, the rebel group has been terrorizing commercial ships on the Red Sea in an attempt to pressure Israel into a ceasefire with Hamas.

On Friday, January 12, pro-Houthi protesters congregated in Sanaa, the capital of Yemen, with some shouting, “Death to America, death to Israel, curse the Jews, victory to Islam.”

Although Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin was hospitalized at the time of the strike due to prostate cancer surgery complications, he was involved from his hospital room, ordering and monitoring them in real time, according to a senior Defense official.

On the same day as the attack, Abdul Malek Al-Houthi, the leader of the rebel group, issued vague threats against the U.S., promising attacks that are “much more” serious than its Red Sea operations, which have been made possible with significant help from Iran.

Laws on Animal Cafes in S. Korea Since the 2010s, animal cafes have become more and more popular with

each passing year in South Korea. Imagine going to a coffee shop where live animals roam around. In one cafe located in Hongdae, a district in Seoul, over forty different types of animals are featured – from foxes to porcupines to snakes.

Originally, animal cafes only had cats and dogs, but with time, more and more animals, including those from exotic species, have become attractions in these shops. Some cafes have sheep walking around for customers to pet and take selfies with, and other coffee shops even have raccoons jumping around in glass cages.

Animal rights activists have been, in recent years, pushing for bans on these cafes, asserting that these businesses jeopardize animal health and safety by subjecting the animals to uncomfortable living spaces, inadequate diets and

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treatment, and stress from being overly touched by customers.

In an effort to address activists’ concerns, the government implemented new rules in December, banning animal cafes from operating unless they successfully register as an indoor zoo or aquarium.

As per new amendments in the Wildlife Protection Act in South Korea, current business owners have four years to register their cafe as a zoo or aquarium or else they will be forced to close up shop. According to Jang Ji-deok, general manager of the Department of Zoological Management at the National Institute of Ecology, to be registered as a zoo or aquarium, the cafe must adopt strict rules which ensure animal wellbeing.

It’s worth noting that the new cafe restrictions only apply to wildlife but not to “pets” or “livestock,” including dogs, cats, ferrets, and sheep.

“Because the owners of these businesses have a right to survival, I don’t think the state can enforce [bans on pet and livestock cafes],” Jang said. “It’s like a double-edged sword. Some people … are telling us that we can’t take people’s livelihoods away, while animal rights activists want all these establishments to close their doors.”

U.S. Lost Track of $1B Ukraine Weapons

According to reports, the Pentagon failed to properly track over $1 billion worth of weapons provided to Ukraine.

Of the $1.699 billion of military equipment sent to Ukraine, $1.005 Billion “remained delinquent,” according to a report by the Pentagon Inspector General, which means that the Defense Department is unable to do a full inventory of the equipment sent to Ukraine.

To ensure that recipients of U.S. military packages are being used properly, the government conducts end-use monitoring (EEUM). In this particular package, AIM-9X, Javelin, and Stinger missiles, as well as night-vision devices and Advanced Medium-Range Air-to-Air

Missiles, were supposed to be tracked.

There are “significant personnel limitations and accountability challenges,” which likely played a role in causing the equipment delinquency, according to the inspector general’s report.

“Standard EEUM inventory procedures are not practical in a dynamic and hostile wartime environment,” the ODC-Kyiv explained in a letter, asserting that the “unprecedented volume” of military items sent to Ukraine “is beyond the capacity of the limited DoD personnel in the country to physically inventory even if access were unrestricted.”

The Defense Department’s inability to take a complete inventory of the items may indicate that some equipment ended up in the wrong hands. However, Pentagon spokesman Maj. Gen. Pat Ryder said last week that there is “no credible evidence of illicit diversion of U.S.-provided advanced conventional weapons from Ukraine.”

“We do see some instances of Russia continuing to spread disinformation to the contrary, but the fact is, we observe the Ukrainians employing these capabilities on the battlefield,” said Ryder. “We’re seeing them use them effectively, for all the obvious reasons in that Russia continues to present a significant threat to Ukraine’s sovereignty.”

With Congress arguing over whether further aid packages should be sent to Ukraine, this report may potentially support the Republicans’ effort to put an end to the U.S.’s supplemental packages.

Without another package, Ukraine will likely have more difficulty in fending off Russian attacks.

Iran Extends Mohammadi’s Sentence

Mohammadi has been sentenced to more than 12 years in prison, 154 lashes, four months’ travel ban and two years’ exile.

“The judgment resembles a political statement against Narges Mohammadi, emphasizing accusations that she repeatedly incites and encourages public and individual opinions against the Islamic regime to sow chaos and disturbances,” her family wrote on the platform Threads.

Still, she remains one of the most outspoken critics of Iran’s government, organizing protests and writing opinion pieces during recent protests in Iran.

A day before that announcement, Iran released journalists Niloufar Hamedi and Elaheh Mohammadi on bail while they appeal their sentences, according to state media. They had been jailed for their coverage of Mahsa Amini, 22, whose death sparked a nationwide protest movement that challenged the country’s system of authoritarian clerical rule.

Hamedi, 31, reported for the Iranian daily newspaper Shargh from the hospital where Amini lay dying and shared a photo of her grieving relatives that went viral on social media. She was arrested days after Amini’s death. Mohammadi, who had covered her funeral for the newspaper Hammihan, was arrested a week after that, as protests swept Iran.

Both women were charged with conspiring with foreign intelligence agencies to undermine national security, as well as spreading propaganda, and spent months in detention. After closeddoor trials, they were sentenced in October —Hamedi to 13 years in prison and Mohammadi to 12 years.

Ironically, after journalists Hamedi and Mohammadi were released this week, a photo of them walking down the street with their hair loosely uncovered swiftly made the rounds. On Monday, Mizan, a news agency overseen by Iran’s judiciary, reported that prosecutors had filed a new complaint against the journalists, accusing them of breaking the hijab law. That legislation requires women to cover their hair and wear long, loose clothing that hides the shape of their bodies.

N. Korea: No Peace with S. Korea This week, Tehran extended the sen-

tence of Narges Mohammadi, the human rights activist who received the 2023 Nobel Peace Prize while in jail. She will now have to sit in prison for 15 more months.

She has spent most of the last decade in and out of prison, charged with “spreading anti-state propaganda.”

For decades, North and South Korea have been at odds, in an uneasy truce but never fully at peace. North Korea has often called the South its “sworn” and “principal enemy”; at times, though, it has engaged in dialogue and discussed a possible reunification.

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But this week, North Korea supposedly abandoned any thoughts of peaceful reunification. Kim Jong-un announced that the North no longer saw the South as “the partner of reconciliation and reunification” but instead as an enemy that must be subjugated, if necessary, through a nuclear war.

Kim ​unveiled his new ​stance on South Korea in a party meeting at the end of last month and in a speech he gave to the North’s parliament, the Supreme People’s Assembly, on Monday.

He also ordered the revision of the North’s constitution, as well as its propaganda guidelines, to remove references to “peaceful reunification,” “great national unity” or to South Koreans as “fellow countrymen” and to instill in his people the view that the South was “a foreign country” and “the most hostile state.”

“We can specify in our constitution the issue of completely occupying, sub-

jugating and reclaiming the ROK and annexing it as a part of the territory of our​ republic in case a war breaks out on the Korean Peninsula,” Kim said, using the abbreviation of the South’s official name, the Republic of Korea.

This is hardly a surprise. Kim has been building toward ​his new policy in recent months, criticizing South Korea’s deepening military alliance with Washington under its conservative president, Yoon Suk Yeol​. Kim called the expansion of joint military drills between the allies a dangerous provocation and ​cited it as a justification for producing more nuclear weapons and ​threatening to use them against the South.

“We do not want war, but we also have no intention of avoiding it,” he said. “If the enemies ignite a war, our ​republic will resolutely punish the enemies by mobilizing all its military forces, including nuclear weapons.” ​The North Korean parliament dismantled all government agencies charged with ​promoting exchanges with the South. It has also shut down radio broadcasts and propaganda websites promoting Korean reunification.

On Tuesday, Yoon, the South Korean leader, criticized Kim’s new policy “as anti-nation” and “anti-history​.”

The Korean Peninsula was divided into the pro​-Soviet North and the proU.S. South​ at the end of World War II. The two Koreas fought the Korean War from 1950 to 1953, which ended in a truce, leaving the two nations technically in an ongoing state of war.

“If the North provokes, we will exact manifold retaliation,” Yoon pledged on Tuesday in response to Kim’s speech.

Guatemala’s New President

Despite staunch resistance from his opponents in the government, anti-corruption crusader Bernardo Arévalo was inaugurated early Monday morning as Guatemala’s president, a turning point in a country where tensions have been simmering over widespread graft and impu-

nity.

His inauguration had been scheduled for Sunday, but members of Congress delayed it, and concerns persisted about whether it would happen at all. But after an international outcry and pressure from protesters, Arévalo was sworn in shortly after midnight, becoming Guatemala’s most progressive head of state since democracy was reestablished in the 1980s.

His rise to power — six months after his victory at the polls delivered a stunning rebuke to Guatemala’s conservative political establishment — amounts to a sea change in Central America’s most populous country. His landslide election reflected broad support for his proposals to curb graft and revive a teetering democracy.

But as Arévalo prepares to govern, he must assert control while facing off against an alliance of conservative prosecutors, members of Congress and other political figures who have gutted Guatemala’s governing institutions in recent years.

“Arévalo has the most thankless job in Guatemala today because he arrives with exceptionally high expectations,” said Edgar Ortíz Romero, an expert on Guatemalan constitutional law.

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Arévalo’s opponents in Congress moved to rein him in late last year, approving a budget that would severely limit his ability to spend on health care and education, two of his top priorities.

But finding resources to spend is just one of the difficulties confronting Arévalo. More urgently, as his opponents in Congress showed again Sunday, he faces multiple challenges from Guatemala’s entrenched establishment, aimed at quickly crippling his ability to govern.

In the capital, speculation swirled in recent days that prosecutors would seek the arrest of Arévalo’s running mate, Karin Herrera, potentially derailing the inauguration because both the president-elect and vice president-elect need to be present for the transfer of power to be legitimate.

Guatemala’s highest court issued an order last week shielding Herrera from arrest, giving her and Arévalo a reprieve.

But the same court sowed confusion Sunday when it allowed his conservative opponents to remain in the running to retain control of Congress.

Members of Congress opposed to Arévalo then spent hours trying to consolidate their hold on the chamber. But in a twist Sunday night, Arévalo’s party managed to win leadership of Congress,

clearing the way for the swearing-in. (© The New York Times)

Lava Keeps Flowing in Iceland

On Sunday, a volcano in southwestern Iceland erupted after a series of intense earthquakes. Lava streamed into a nearby town later that day, engulfing homes and forcing the evacuation of residents.

Iceland’s president, Guðni Th. Jóhannesson, said in an address to the nation on Sunday that a “daunting period of upheaval” had begun for those in the Reykjanes peninsula.

“We continue to hope for as good an outcome as possible, in the face of these tremendous forces of nature,” he said.

This is the second time in a month

that a volcano has erupted just outside Grindavík, a coastal town about 25 miles from the Icelandic capital of Reykjavík. On December 18, lava flowed into the city; residents had already been told to leave because of the heightened seismic activity.

At least three homes have either burned down or been overtaken by lava this week, according to the Icelandic broadcaster RUV. Lúðvík Pétursson went missing in a work accident in Grindavík last week.

He had been filling crevasses formed by volcanic activity and earthquakes when he fell in a crack that had opened after last month’s eruption.

Iceland is a hotspot for seismic activity, with 32 active volcanoes. A volcano erupts roughly every five years in the country, though eruptions have occurred more frequently recently.

poaching.

In an effort to save its shrinking elephant population, Nigeria has, as of late, been seizing elephant tusks from poachers. Last week, authorities crushed 2.5 tons of elephant tusks, valued at over $11.2 million. According to Iziaq Salako, Nigeria’s minister of state for environment, the government will use the powder from the destroyed tusks to construct a national park monument which will serve as a symbolic reminder of the significance of saving the country’s elephant population.

Nigeria Destroys Elephant Tusks

Although an international ban on ivory trade was implemented in 1989 by the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES), African gangs have disregarded these rules, placing Nigeria at the center of elephant ivory trafficking. Thousands of elephants are killed each year by

Although Nigeria was once home to around 1,500 elephants not too long ago, the West African country is now left with less than 400, thanks in no small part to

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people who hope to gain monetarily, critically endangering the species.

With help from the U.S., Britain, and Germany, Nigeria has been taking more initiative in seizing tusks and other illegal animal parts.

This isn’t the first time the Nigerian government has destroyed seized animal materials in a stand against poaching. In October 2023, authorities in Abuja, the country’s capital, destroyed $1.4 million worth of pangolin scales. In 2022, Nigerian customs authorities made fourteen arrests and seized 1,615 tons of pangolin scales. Pangolin scales are used in traditional medicine to cure various ailments.

Taiwan DPP Party Wins Having won reelection for the third time in a row, the Democratic Progressive Party of Taiwan declared victory on Saturday, with current vice president Lai Ching-te becoming the country’s president-elect.

The DPP won around 40% of the vote, as opposed to its rival parties, Kuomintang and Taiwan People’s Party, which received 33.49% and 26.45% of the vote,

respectively. Over 71% of the Taiwanese population voted. Lai’s vice president will be Hsiao Bi-khim, who worked as Taiwan’s representative to the United States from 2020 to 2023.

“This is a night that belongs to Taiwan.

We managed to keep Taiwan on the map of the world,” Lai said to his supporters at a victory rally. “The election has shown the world the commitment of the Taiwanese people to democracy, which I hope China can understand.”

In the lead up to the election, China warned the people of Taiwan that a win for the DPP party would likely cause more conflict between the two countries. China, which has long claimed to be the rightful owner of Taiwan, instead endorsed the Kuomintang party, which has not been in control of Taiwan since 2016.

After the Taiwanese presidential election, China reiterated its belief that

“Taiwan is part of China.” Although the Chinese Communist Party never had control over Taiwan, Xi Jinping and Chinese leaders of the past have vowed to reunify the two countries, and with the recent increase in Chinese aggression against Taiwan, many fear the emergence of an imminent conflict between the two.

“The one-China principle is the solid anchor for peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait. We believe that the international community will continue to adhere to the one-China principle and understand and support the Chinese people’s just cause of opposing ‘Taiwan independence’ separatist activities and striving to achieve national reunification,” said a spokesperson for China’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken congratulated Lai and said that the vote showed off “the strength of [Taiwan’s] robust democratic system and electoral process.”

“I will act in accordance with our democratic and free constitutional order in a manner that is balanced and maintains the cross-strait status quo,” Lai pledged. “At the same time, we are also determined to safeguard Taiwan from continuing threats and intimidation from China. In the future, we hope that China will recognize the new situation, and understand that only peace benefits both sides of the strait.”

Ecuador Cracks Down On Gangs

After infamous drug lord and gang leader Adolfo “Fito” Macías escaped from a Guyaquil jail on Sunday, January 7, Ecuador became racked with a sudden explosion of gang violence. In response, President Daniel Noboa has declared Ecuador to be in a state of “internal armed conflict” and commanded authorities to “neutralize” a number of violent gangs.

Since Tuesday, January 9, 859 people have been arrested, 94 of whom are part of “terrorist” organizations, according to the presidency. Noboa labeled 22 gangs as “terrorist” groups.

Amid this chaos, the government of Ecuador said on Thursday that it will now

require any Colombian or Peruvian foreigners to submit a criminal record certificate before entering the country in order to “prevent and control the entry of individuals who constitute a threat or risk to public safety.” According to Naboa, 90% of foreign prisoners held in his country are from Colombia, Peru, and Venezuela.

Once known as an “island of peace,” Ecuador is sandwiched between Peru and Colombia, which both produce the largest amounts of cocaine in the world. Since Ecuador borders both countries, it has, in recent times, been used as a hub for cocaine trafficking.

Noboa, who vowed to uproot gang violence from the country during his campaign for the presidency, now faces the difficult task of fulfilling his promise.

Iran Attacks “Mossad Spy Base”

On Monday, Iran’s Revolutionary Guards launched ballistic missiles at targets in Syria and in Iraq, asserting that those bases were spy bases for Israel’s Mossad and “anti-terror groups.”

The strikes were condemned by the United States as “reckless” and imprecise.

Iranian forces said the midnight missile strike in Iraq destroyed “one of the main espionage headquarters” of Israel in Erbil, capital of the semi-autonomous Kurdistan region, in response to what they said were Israeli attacks that killed Iranian Revolutionary Guard commanders and members of the Iranian resistance front.

“This headquarters has been the center for developing espionage operations and planning terrorist acts” in the region and Iran, the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) said in a statement.

The IRGC also said it struck several locations in Erbil and claimed to target “sites of Iranian opposition groups.”

At least four civilians were killed, and six others were injured in the attack. A large villa belonging to a wellknown Kurdish businessman was also destroyed.

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“This blatant violation undermines the sovereignty of the Kurdistan Region and Iraq,” the Security Council said in its statement, which accused Iran of employing baseless pretexts to attack Erbil, a historically stable region that it said had never posed a threat to any party.

Also on Monday, the IRGC said it fired ballistic missiles at bases of “anti-Iran terror groups in occupied territories of Syria.”

It claimed the targets were involved in the recent dual bombings in the city of Kerman during a memorial for the slain Quds Force Commander Qasem Soleimani that left scores dead and wounded. ISIS had claimed responsibility for that attack, which was the deadliest attack in Iran since its 1979 revolution.

S. Africa Accuses Israel of Genocide

A legal team representing the South African government claimed on Thursday at the International Court of Justice that Israel’s current operations in Gaza constitute genocide and are conducted with the intention of “exterminating” and bringing “about the physical destruction of the [Palestinian] people.”

Eight people were part of the South African legal team that accused the Jewish state, in no uncertain terms, of genocide. They claimed that the poor living conditions and widespread death that Gazans face is the fault of Israel and requested that the seventeen world court judges order Israel to put an end to its military operations in the Strip.

In response, the Israeli Foreign Ministry rejected the allegations as false and unfounded and added that South Africa’s accusations serve as “one of the greatest displays of hypocrisy in

history.” The ministry also took issue with the fact that the South African legal team, at no point in their arguments, held Hamas accountable for any wrongdoing. Absent from the delegation’s claims were any mentions of the fact that Hamas operates within civilian spaces, such as hospitals and schools.

South Africa is “functioning as the legal arm” of Hamas, asserted the Israeli Foreign Ministry, adding that the allegations “utterly distorted the reality in Gaza following the October 7 massacre and completely ignored the fact that Hamas terrorists infiltrated Israel, murdered, executed, massacred, [assaulted] and abducted Israeli citizens, simply because they were Israelis, in an attempt to carry out genocide.”

Vaughan Lowe, a British lawyer representing South Africa, claimed that the right to self-defense, granted by Article 51 of the UN charter, does not apply to Israel because the Jewish state is “in occupation of Gaza.”

Before launching the attack, Israel warned Gazan residents to flee, giving them twenty-four hours to do so before extending the deadline multiple times to limit civilian casualties. Yet, Adila Hassim, a colleague of Lowe, alleged that the evacuations constituted “genocide.”

Another member of the legal team, Tembeka Ngcukaitobi, pointed to Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s comparison of the nation of Amalek, whom the Jews are commanded to eradicate, to Hamas during a speech on October 28 as proof of genocidal intent. In the same speech, Netanyahu said that the “IDF does everything to avoid harming noncombatants.”

“South Africa seeks to allow Hamas to return to commit the war crimes, crimes against humanity … they committed repeatedly on October 7, as its leaders have stated,” said the Israeli Foreign Ministry. “One hundred thirty six hostages are being held in Hamas captivity, denied access to Red Cross representatives and medical care…

Hamas uses the civilian population in Gaza as human shields and operates from within hospitals, schools, UN shelters, mosques, and churches with the intention of endangering the lives of the residents of the Gaza Strip.”

Of the seventeen judges in the ICJ, fifteen are permanent ones, as well as former Israeli Supreme Court president Aharon Barak and former South African deputy chief justice Dikgang Moseneke, who are temporarily serving on the bench.

Terror Attack in Ra’anana

Two Palestinian terrorists went on a car-ramming attack in Ra’anana, an affluent city in Israel, on Monday, killing an elderly woman and wounding seventeen others.

The terrorists, who were illegally employed in Israel, hijacked three cars in an effort to run over as many Jews as possible, stabbing others in the process. Edna Bluestein, a 79-year-old woman from Ra’anana, who was hit by one of the cars, was brought to Meir Hospital in critical condition and later died from her injuries.

The terrorist cousins were later named as 25-year-old Ahmed Zidat and 44-year-old Mahmoud Zidad. Both lived in Bani Naim, a town in the south of the West Bank, near Hebron, and had been blacklisted for entering Israel illegally many times.

The attack started at around 1:30 PM, at the end of the school day. One of the assailants pulled a woman out of her car, took control of the vehicle, and used it to run over three pedestrians. After getting stuck, the terrorist exited the vehicle and stole another car, which he drove into several other people.

“We heard the noise of a crash, like a car bumping into another car,” said witness Eden Arzi. “We saw the driver go to stab a woman and she ran away, and [the driver] went and stabbed a 60-year-old man while there were a bunch of screams in the background until he fell on the ground.”

In the meantime, the other terrorist stabbed a woman who had been driving a white vehicle on Ahuza Street, slightly wounding her. He took control of the car and ran over a number of Jews, including Edna Bluestein who died soon after, until he hit an electricity pole and proceeded to run away.

Among those wounded in the terror attack were a 34-year-old man and a 16-year-old boy who were seriously injured, as well as seven children and teenagers who sustained moderate wounds.

Six more were lightly hurt, and two men

were sent to Ichilov hospital with moderate orthopedic injuries.

Both terrorists were apprehended for interrogation shortly after the attack, according to Deputy Commissioner Avi Bitton, who is the head of the police’s Central District. Police Commissioner Kobi Shabtai hailed the quick response from police, who arrested the assailants and closed off the attacked area.

One of the terrorists admitted to the Shin Bet that “when the war in Gaza started,” the two “decided to carry out an attack and become martyrs… Initially, we intended to stab Jews, but then we decided to run over as many Jews as possible.”

Israeli Soccer Star Deported From Turkey

During a soccer game in Turkey, Sagiv Jehezkel, a 28-year-old Israeli soccer player, made a heart sign with his hands, which he raised to the camera, revealing a wristband he was wearing that had the words “100 days. October 7,” as well as a small Star of David symbol. His gesture, which was made after he scored a goal, has been seen by many as an act of support and love for the 136 abductees who were tragically kidnapped by Hamas on October 7 and are still being held captive in Gaza.

But the gesture of support angered those in Turkey, and Ankara proceeded to arrest Jehezkel for the gesture, before deporting him back to Israel. He was subsequently suspended from the Turkish soccer club Antalyaspor. The club president Sinan Boztepe claimed they would terminate Jehezkel’s contract because he “acted against the sensitivities of Antalya, Antalyaspor, and our country.” According to Israel’s Channel 12 news, the team will lose more than $1 million if the Israeli soccer star is indeed terminated.

“Turkey is always on the side of all the oppressed and the Palestinian people,” said Turkish Interior Minister Ali Yerlinka. Yilmaz Tunc, the justice minister of Turkey, said that the ministry will be investigating Jehezkel over charges of

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“inciting people to hatred and hostility” based on “his ugly gesture supporting Israel’s massacre in Gaza.”

The Turkish Football Federation asserted that Jehezkel’s termination would be an “appropriate” response to the player’s “completely unacceptable behavior.”

After Jehezkel’s arrest, he told police that he is “not a pro-war person” but just wanted to act in support of the hostages. He was later deported back to Israel, whose officials were infuriated by Turkey’s harsh actions.

“When there was an earthquake in Turkey less than a year ago, Israel was the first country to stand up and extend aid that saved the lives of many Turkish citizens,” noted Defense Minister Yoav Gallant. “The scandalous arrest of the soccer player Sagiv Jehezkel is an expression of hypocrisy and ingratitude. Through its actions, Turkey serves as the executive arm of Hamas.”

National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir called Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan a “full-on Nazi” and urged Israelis to avoid traveling to Turkey and to boycott Turkish products.

“The State of Israel and Israeli citizens must not act with forgiveness toward Turkey. We won’t let ourselves be trampled on,” he added.

“Turkey has become a dark dictatorship, which works against humanitarian values and the values of sports,” said Foreign Minister Israel Katz. “Anyone who arrests a soccer player over an act of identification with 136 hostages who have been held for over 100 days in the hands of a murderous terror organization represents a culture of murder and hatred,” Sunday, January 14 marked 100 days since Hamas terrorists invaded southern Israel, murdering 1,200 Jews, abducting 240 others, and maiming thousands more. The war in Gaza which erupted thereafter has exposed and triggered international antisemitism. Now, there remain 136 hostages in Hamas captivity.

Sinwar on EU Terror List

This week, the European Union announced that it has put Hamas leader

Yahya Sinwar on its terrorist list. Sinwar was one of the organizers of the October 7 massacre.

EU headquarters said the move was in “response to the threat posed by Hamas and its brutal and indiscriminate terrorist attacks in Israel.”

Sinwar “is subject to the freezing of his funds and other financial assets in EU member states. It is also prohibited for EU operators to make funds and economic resources available to him.”

The 61-year-old terrorist has not been seen in public since October 7. Israel has declared him a “dead man walking” and believes that Sinwar is hiding in a tunnel somewhere in the southern Gaza city of Khan Younis.

Foreign Minister Israel Katz hailed the EU decision to censure Sinwar as “just and moral.”

“I thank all our friends that supported this decision,” Katz wrote on X, formerly Twitter. “This decision is also a result of our diplomatic efforts to strangle the resources of the Hamas, to delegitimize them and prohibit all support to them.

“We will continue to eradicate the root of evil, in Gaza and wherever it raises its head,” he added.

In November, the EU froze the funds and other assets in Europe of Muhammad Deif, the commander general of Hamas’s military wing, and of deputy commander Marwan Issa. Hamas and its military wing have been on the EU’s terrorist list for about 20 years.

Hamas Toys with Hostages’ Fates

This week, Hamas distributed a video in which it said that two hostages had been killed in Israeli airstrikes. Several days earlier, the Israeli military had notified the families of hostages Itay Svirsky and Yossi Sharabi, telling them that they may be in danger, although they may be alive.

In the Hamas propaganda video, the terrorist group said that the two men had been killed by an Israeli airstrike, an accusation that the IDF has denied.

Noa Argamani was also seen in the

video. She is presumed to be alive.

Yossi Sharabi, 53, was abducted by Hamas terrorists from Kibbutz Be’eri, along with his brother, Eli Sharabi.

Itay Svirsky, 38, was abducted from his parents’ home in Kibbutz Be’eri, where he was visiting to celebrate Simchas Torah. Both his parents, Orit Svirsky and Rafi Svirsky, were murdered by Hamas terrorists. His 96-year-old grandmother Aviva Sela managed to survive the attack.

Noa Argamani, 26, was abducted from the Supernova music festival near Kibbutz Re’im on the morning of October 7.

A video of her abduction was one of the first to be published online.

Last month, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said he had asked Beijing to help free Argamani, whose mother Liora is Chinese. Suffering from a terminal illness, Liora Argamani has appealed to be reunited with her daughter before she dies.

It is believed that 136 hostages abducted by Hamas on October 7 remain in Gaza — not all of them alive. One hundred five hostages were released from Hamas captivity during a weeklong truce in late November. Four hostages were released prior to that, and one was rescued by troops. The bodies of eight hostages have also been recovered and three hostages were mistakenly killed by the military. The Israel Defense Forces has confirmed the deaths of 25 of those still held

by Hamas, citing new intelligence and findings obtained by troops operating in Gaza. One more person is listed as missing since October 7, and their fate is still unknown.

Hamas has previously issued similar videos of hostages it is holding, in what Israel says is deplorable psychological warfare. Most Israeli media does not publish the clips out of respect for the families of the abducted and in order to not lend a hand to the methods being employed by terror groups.

Israelis Still Smoking

Although smoking rates around the world are declining, Israel is seeing more

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smokers, as the country grapples with terror and unrest.

According to a new World Health Organization study published this week, there are 1.25 billion adult tobacco users in the world. Today, one in five adults consumes tobacco compared to one in three in 2000.

But the smoking rate in Israel – where smoking and vaping by teens and children is uncounted – is apparently bucking that trend. More than 8,000 Israelis die from smoking each year, including around 2,000 from secondhand smoke.

This figure is much greater than victims of road accidents and terror.

The Health Ministry has not conducted a new study for several years. Back then, the ministry noted that 20% of Israelis 21 years and over smoked. That data did not include secondhand smoking effects suffered by non-smokers on their balconies and in stairwells against which the ministry has taken no action.

Public health experts report that numerous non-smoking reserve soldiers have taken up the deadly habit since the October 7 massacre, and large numbers of bored and traumatized youngsters who have been forced to evacuate with their families from their homes in the north and south have started to smoke and drink alcohol.

The new WHO report showed that 150 countries are successfully reducing tobacco use. Brazil has made a relative reduction of 35% since 2010, and the Netherlands is on the verge of reaching the 30% target.

“Good progress has been made in tobacco control in recent years, but there is no time for complacency. I’m astounded at the depths the tobacco industry will go to pursue profits at the expense of countless lives. We see that the minute a government thinks they have won the fight against tobacco, the tobacco industry seizes the opportunity to manipulate health policies and sell their deadly products,” said Dr. Ruediger Krech, director of WHO’s health promotion department.

Currently, the WHO South-East Asian Region has the highest percentage of the population using tobacco at 26.5%, with the European Region not far behind at

25.3%. The report shows that by 2030, the WHO European Region is projected to have the highest rates globally, with a prevalence of just over 23%. Tobacco use rates among women in the WHO’s European region are more than double the global average and are declining much more slowly than in all other regions.

The prevalence of tobacco use has changed little since 2010 in some countries, while six countries – apparently including Israel – are still seeing tobacco use rising: Congo, Egypt, Indonesia, Jordan, Oman, and the Republic of Moldova.

2 Killed in Strike from Hezbollah

On Sunday, two people were killed in a missile attack that originated from Lebanon as fighting with the Hezbollah terror group continues to intensify.

The anti-tank missile strike on the town of Kfar Yuval occurred hours after three gunmen from Lebanon were killed in a firefight with troops after infiltrating into northern Israel under the cover of predawn fog, and as Hezbollah rocket fire and Israel Defense Forces airstrikes echoed across the border region, sending the region spiraling closer to war.

Barak Ayalon, 45, and his mother Miri Ayalon, 76, were killed when an anti-tank missile slammed into their home in the border community.

The killings were the first to claim the lives of Israeli civilians on the northern border since November 13, when an anti-tank missile fired by Hezbollah killed Shalom Aboudi, a 56-year-old electrician repairing power lines damaged in another attack. Two soldiers, Sgt. Amit Hod Ziv and Staff Sgt. Daniel Nachmani, were killed in separate attacks in late Decem-

Did you know?

70% of Chinese speakers speak Mandarin Chinese.

ber.

Ayalon, a staff sergeant in reserves, was a member of Kfar Yuval’s security team.

Aside from the deadly strike on Kfar Yuval, Hezbollah claimed responsibility for separate missile attacks near the northern communities of Shomera and Margaliot, as well as a sniper attack on “spy equipment” in Metula. Anti-tank missiles were also fired by Hezbollah at the community of Zar’it.

Early Sunday morning, three gunmen were killed while sneaking into Israel in the Mount Dov region on the border, also known as Shebaa farms. Five Israeli troops were lightly and moderately wounded in the encounter.

The apparent intensification of fighting came a week after the assassination, apparently by Israel, of senior Hezbollah commander Wissam Tawil, who was reportedly a top figure in the terror group’s Radwan force. Hezbollah head Hassan Nasrallah was giving a speech later Sunday to mark Tawil’s killing.

Since October 8, Hezbollah-led forces have attacked Israeli communities and military posts along the border on a near-daily basis, with the group saying it is doing so to support Gaza amid the war there. Six Israeli civilians have been killed in the north, and nine IDF soldiers and reservists have lost their lives there.

Defense Minister Yoav Gallant said last week that Jerusalem “prefers a diplomatic path over a military one,” but warned: “We are close to the point of the hourglass turning over.”

On Thursday, U.S. envoy Amos Hochstein said both Lebanon and Israel “prefer” a diplomatic deal to end hostilities on the border, after meetings on both sides of the border.

Families Mark 100 Days of Captivity

“My heart is split in two,” said Zvika Mor, whose 23-year-old son Eitan remains captive in Gaza.

As Israel on Sunday marked 100 days since Hamas’s October 7 attacks, Mor said, “On the one hand, we feel the concern and longing for Eitan, and it’s very

painful. We miss him so much and want him to be safe with us again.”

But there’s another part of the situation he and the families of captives are trying to come to terms with, he continued.

“The other half? The national interest.

We are very happy to see the army continuing to fight for so long and wipe out terrorists for the benefit of Israel’s security. It was not done for many years. Also, we feel the concern that they will only do half the work before they are stopped. If so, we will leave a bad inheritance here for our children. Any surrender to terrorism is a real threat to us all,” he said.

The rumors about a possible deal with Hamas to secure the release of the remaining 136 hostages mean that the fighting in Gaza might stop for an unspecified time. But Mor understands that a ceasefire means giving Hamas a respite from the Israeli ground war.

Government leaders from Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on down have vowed to permanently remove Hamas from Gaza.

One hundred days ago, Eitan was working as a security guard at the Nova music festival near Kibbutz Re’im in southern Israel. When the attack on the rave began that morning, Eitan called his uncle, Eli, Zvika’s brother; Zvika didn’t carry his phone during Shabbos. Eitan simply told Eli there was an attack on the festival.

The family would later learn from survivors that Eitan and his friend from home, Elyakim Libman – who was also working as a guard – had rescued wounded individuals and were trying to retrieve the body of a young woman when the terrorists caught them.

The family has received no word on Eitan or Elyakim’s fate since.

“Bringing humanitarian aid into Gaza when there is no sign of life from our loved ones is incomprehensible.

It must be a humanitarian exchange – only after the hostages return home should Gaza receive the aid,” said Mor. On Tuesday, the families of several captives unsuccessfully tried to block trucks delivering humanitarian aid to the Strip.

Mor is particularly frustrated with the lack of support from the International Red Cross.

“The Red Cross organization has backed out of its commitment to the Israeli hostages, probably there is no sensitivity to Jewish suffering,” he said.

A day before, Netanyahu announced that an agreement to allow medicines

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to be delivered to Israeli hostages in Gaza was being brokered by Qatar. But details were scant and Mor is skeptical.

Proceedings at the International Court of Justice, where Israel was forced to defend itself from accusations of genocide last week, leave Mor even more jaded about international support.

“When we see the Secretary General of the United Nations accusing Israel of defending itself, and now the spectacle at The Hague, we have to realize, it’s no use begging to the international community,” he said.

“We should be taking care of ourselves because otherwise no one will,” he insisted.

Mor marked the 100th day of his son’s captivity by calling the general public to join his and other hostages’ families on a Day of Good Deeds to volunteer for 100 minutes by visiting wounded soldiers, supporting the families of the fallen or the thousands of evacuees, or helping farmers.

“Only with the victory of the people of Israel over its enemies will we return security and the hostages back home,” Mor insists. (JNS)

itors, has been working on implementing the newest AI technologies into its products, including Search, Gmail, and Google Docs.

These layoffs have been seen by some as an early demonstration of how jobs in the tech industry are being taken away by AI technologies.

According to Google, its core engineering team has also been impacted by the layoffs, with company-wide dismissals taking place as well. Google has said that it will be searching for other jobs in the company for those impacted by the layoffs.

“We’re responsibly investing in our company’s biggest priorities and the significant opportunities ahead,” a Google spokesperson said.

Fitbit co-founders James Park and Eric Friedman will also be leaving the company.

Similar measures have been implemented by Amazon, which laid off hundreds of workers in the past week, many of whom were employed by Twitch, a live-streaming service that was acquired by Amazon in 2014.

In recent post-pandemic times, layoffs have affected the entire tech industry and much of the economy as well.

Ramaswamy Ends Campaign Google Layoffs

Google has announced that it will be laying off hundreds of employees who work in company divisions responsible for the production of Google Assistant, Nest, Pixel, Fitbit, and other products.

Google Assistant, which was the tech giant’s response to Apple’s Siri and Amazon’s Alexa, is a voice-powered conversational assistant meant to provide convenience and entertainment to its users. However, with the tech industry largely transitioning to generative artificial intelligence, it is understandable why Google would be shifting its attention away from Google Assistant, which is inferior to the company’s AI chatbot Bard in terms of ability. Google, like some of its compet-

On Tuesday, after a dismal finish in Iowa, biotech entrepreneur and presidential hopeful Vivek Ramaswamy ended his campaign for the 2024 Republican presidential nomination.

“I will stick to the truth tonight. The first hard truth and this was hard for me, I gotta admit this, but we’ve looked at it every which way. And I think it is true that we did not achieve the surprise that we wanted to deliver tonight,” he said at his campaign’s watch party in Des Moines, Iowa.

He then formally endorsed former President Donald Trump for the nomination.

“Tomorrow we’re likely – I’m going to appear with Donald Trump at a rally in New Hampshire to lay out what I see and what we see for the future of the country,” he said.

Ramaswamy was the youngest person in the crowded field of contenders.

At 38 years old, he used his political inexperience to appeal to a younger generation and to contrast his views to those in the establishment.

“America is in the midst of a national identity crisis. We hunger for purpose at a moment when faith, patriotism and hard work are on the decline,” Ramaswamy wrote in The Wall Street Journal announcing his campaign. “The Republican Party’s top priority should be to fill this void with an inspiring national identity that dilutes the woke agenda to irrelevance.

Instead, many top Republicans recite slogans they memorized in 1980 or criticize left-wing culture without offering an alternative.”

Prior to the campaign, Ramaswamy had written two books: “Woke, Inc.” and “Nation of Victims” which had given him a growing profile in right-wing media.

A frequent critic of the two-party political system, Ramaswamy often said he was “using” the Republican Party to advance his own agenda. Over the course of his campaign, he leveled sharp criticisms at GOP leaders, most notably Republican National Committee Chairwoman Ronna McDaniel, whom he called on to resign.

“We’ve become a party of losers,” Ramaswamy said of underperforming Republican candidates during a debate in November. “Since Ronna McDaniel took over as chairwoman of the RNC in 2017, we have lost 2018, 2020, 2022 — no red wave, that never came. We got trounced last night in 2023. And I think that we have to have accountability in our party.”

Tragic Balloon Ride

What was supposed to be an idyllic journey above the treetops quickly turned to devastation when a hot air balloon crash-landed on Sunday, leaving four people dead and one person critically injured.

The devastating incident took place around 7:50 a.m. in Eloy, a city about 65 miles south of Phoenix, Arizona.

The aircraft was carrying 13 adults – a balloon operator, four passengers and eight skydivers, according to Eloy Mayor Micah Powell.

Shortly after all the skydivers completed their planned jump from the aircraft, “something catastrophic occurred with the balloon, causing it to crash to the ground,” said Eloy Police Chief Byron Gwaltney at a news conference. The skydivers made it to the ground safely.

Though the exact cause of the crash is unknown, preliminary information suggests it occurred after the balloon had an “unspecified problem with its envelope,” said the National Transportation Safety Board, which is investigating the incident.

A witness on the ground told authorities in the seconds leading up to the crash “the material of the hot air balloon was just straight up and down, and the impact was fairly, fairly large,” the mayor said.

According to Powell, the close-knit city has a “very large skydive community presence” and boasts a large “drop zone,” or area where skydivers can land.

Microsoft is Most Valued Company

For more than a decade, Apple was the stock market’s undisputed king. It first overtook Exxon Mobil Corp. as the world’s most valuable public company in 2011 and held the title almost without interruption.

But a transfer of power has begun.

On Friday, Microsoft surpassed Apple, claiming the crown after its market value surged by more than $1 trillion over the past year. Microsoft finished the day at $2.89 trillion, higher than Apple’s $2.87 trillion, according to Bloomberg.

The change is part of a reordering of the stock market that was set in motion by the advent of generative artificial intelligence. The technology, which can answer questions, create images

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crosoft’s CEO in 2014, the company was floundering. He refocused it on the growing cloud-computing business, turning it into a strong challenger to Amazon, the pioneer in the field.

Then Nadella pushed the company forward again, making an aggressive bet on generative AI. (© The New York Times)

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Trump Handily Wins Iowa

and write code, has been heralded for its potential to disrupt businesses and create trillions of dollars in economic value.

When Apple replaced Exxon, it ushered in an era of tech supremacy. The values of Apple, Amazon, Facebook, Microsoft and Google dwarfed former market leaders such as Walmart, JPMorgan Chase & Co. and General Motors.

The tech industry still dominates

the top of the list, but the companies with the most momentum have put generative AI at the forefront of their future business plans. The combined value of Microsoft, Nvidia and Alphabet, Google’s parent company, increased by $2.5 trillion last year. Their performances outshined Apple, which posted a smaller share price increase in 2023.

“It simply comes down to gen AI,” said Brad Reback, an analyst at the

investment bank Stifel. Generative AI will have an impact on all of Microsoft’s businesses, including its largest, he said, while “Apple doesn’t have much of an AI story yet.”

Microsoft has not led a technology transition since the personal computing era, when its Windows operating system dominated sales. It was late to the internet, mobile phones and social media.

When Satya Nadella became Mi-

On Monday, former President Donald Trump won the Iowa caucuses, proving to supporters and critics alike that he is very much in the game to win the 2024 presidency.

“I want to congratulate Ron (DeSantis) and Nikki (Haley) for having a good, a good time together,” the former president said of his top rivals for the GOP nomination. “We’re all having a good time together. I think they both actually did very well.”

When all the results were in, Trump’s share was 51 percent. Ron DeSantis finished a distant second at 21 percent, with Nikki Haley at 19 percent. Vivek Ramaswamy slid into fourth place and took that as a message, ending his campaign and endorsing Trump for the nomination.

“The people of Iowa sent a clear message tonight: Donald Trump will be the next Republican nominee for President,” Alex Pfeiffer, a spokesman for Trump’s super PAC, MAGA Inc., said in a statement. “It’s now time to make him the next President of the United States.”

The Trump team worked hard in Iowa, seeking new voters who could bring out the vote for the former president. Trump also appears to have won over evangelical Christian voters in the state – a key voting bloc.

“We’ve got our ticket punched out of Iowa,” DeSantis said at a watch party in West Des Moines, reaffirming his commitment to staying in the 2024 race.

“Our campaign is the last best hope of stopping the Trump-Biden nightmare,” Haley said late Monday, in remarks that mainly targeted the former and current presidents but included little mention of DeSantis.

The Biden campaign reacted to the Iowa result with a hard-hitting message.

“The Iowa results are in, and it’s clear: Donald Trump is the official frontrunner for the 2024 Republican presidential nomination,” a Biden fundraising appeal read. “We need to work even harder now.

If Donald Trump is our opponent, we can expect vile attacks, endless lies, and massive spending.”

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Kerry to Step Down as Climate Envoy

John Kerry, President Joe Biden’s special envoy for climate, plans to step down by spring, ending a three-year run in a major diplomatic role that was created especially for him and which will face an uncertain future with his departure.

Kerry, 80, has served as the president’s top diplomat on climate change since early 2021, working to cajole governments around the world to aggressively cut their planet-warming greenhouse gas emissions.

He led the U.S. negotiating team through three United Nations climate summits, reasserting American leadership after the country withdrew from the Paris climate agreement during the Trump administration.

Kerry championed cooperation on global warming between the United States and China, the world’s two largest polluters, during times of tension.

Last Wednesday, Kerry met with Biden in the White House to inform the president of his intention to resign, according to one person familiar with the meeting. On Saturday, his staff learned of his decision at a hastily arranged meeting, said the person, who asked to remain anonymous in order to discuss personnel matters.

Kerry is widely expected to get involved in the 2024 presidential campaign to help raise awareness of Biden’s work on climate change. No successor has yet been tapped.

In the meantime, Kerry is planning to attend the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland, this week as well as a meeting of the International Energy

Agency in Paris in February.

A former Massachusetts senator, Democratic presidential nominee and secretary of state under President Barack Obama, Kerry brought a celebrity status to the global climate summits. Kerry also was granted a seat on the National Security Council in the White House, marking the first time an official on that body was dedicated specifically to climate change.

Widely regarded as a tireless crusader for climate action, Kerry traveled to

31 countries in an effort to restore confidence in the U.S. on climate change and persuade other countries to do more. (© The New York Times)

Hutchinson Drops Out On Tuesday, former Arkansas Gov. Asa Hutchinson dropped out of the race for the GOP nomination for the White

House.

The former two-term governor entered the race in April with an eye toward taking on former President Donald Trump. But Trump won the Iowa caucus in a decisive victory on Monday night.

“My message of being a principled Republican with experience and telling the truth about the current front-runner did not sell in Iowa,” Hutchinson said. He finished a distant sixth in Iowa.

Hutchinson had been failing in his

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bid for months. His campaign manager left in the fall. And he was forced to leave his name off the ballots in states like Nevada and South Carolina because of lack of funds. Still, Hutchinson soldiered on, making the case against a second Trump term – and outlasting more prominent candidates like former Vice President Mike Pence, South Carolina Sen. Tim Scott, and former New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie.

During the first primary debate, he was the only candidate on stage who did not raise his hand when asked if he would support Trump as the Republican nominee if he is convicted of a crime. (Christie, the race’s other prominent Trump critic, later clarified that he would also refuse to support the former president if he’s convicted.)

Hutchinson, who served as the youngest U.S. attorney under President Ronald Reagan, was also the only candidate

to prop up the controversial legal theory that could keep Trump off the ballot in some states.

“I’m not going to support somebody who’s been convicted of a serious felony or who is disqualified under our Constitution,” he added, referencing the “insurrection clause” of the 14th Amendment.

The clause bars those who have taken an oath to support the Constitution from holding office again if they’ve “engaged in insurrection” against the United States or “given aid or comfort” to its enemies.

After Colorado determined in December that Trump is not qualified to be on the ballot, the decision of whether to remove him currently sits with the Supreme Court.

World’s Oldest Dog – Or Not Bobi the Dog had been declared the world’s oldest dog – until this week. Recently, Guinness World Records had begun to have doubts about the age of the

canine who died in October at the official age of 31 years and 165 days.

He had been awarded the title eight months before his passing. At the time, Bobi was also declared the oldest dog ever, breaking a nearly century-old record held by Australian cattle dog Bluey, who died in 1939 at the age of 29 years and five months.

“While our review is ongoing we have decided to temporarily pause both the record titles for Oldest Dog Living and (Oldest Dog) Ever just until all of our findings are in place,” a Guinness spokesman said.

For now, the records company is not sharing why they are skeptical about the winner. Some note that Bobi’s feet appeared to be a different color in photos of him as a puppy and photos of him when he is older.

In fact, Lisbon vet Miguel Figuereido said last year, “He doesn’t look like a very old dog ... with mobility problems... or with an old dog’s muscle mass.”

Bobi was officially born on May 11, 1992, in a litter in a woodshed in central Portugal. Bobi was never chained or put on a leash. He would roam the woods around the village before he got too old to move around and then spent his days lolling around the yard with the family cats.

Doesn’t sound too ruff.

Life in a Prison Paradise Giulia Manca is living the life. She has been living in the beachfront Hotel Milena in Italy for the past 12 years.

But the hotel is far from ordinary.

Pianosa, where the hotel is located, is a former Italian prison island known

as the Alcatraz of the Tyrrhenian Sea, and the hotel is staffed by convicts on probation.

When Manca traveled there in 2011, she was unaware of its notoriety. But after spending a week there, the manager told her that the hotel would be closing because of financial constraints – and the prisoners would have to go back to jail.

“I fell in love with Pianosa,” Manca shared. “Its silence, the turquoise clear paradise-like sea, the peaceful starry nights.”

Not wanting to leave – and not wanting the prisoners to lose their slice of paradise – Manca decided to stay as hotel manager. She initially worked for free, using her management skills to help to secure the hotel’s future.

In just a few years, Manca was able to turn things around significantly, and Hotel Milena has become a popular wedding and birthday party venue, with guests, partly lured by the hotel’s unconventional staff set up, flocking here.

One of just two of the island’s permanent residents, Manca lives and works alongside a jail guard, as well as 10 male convicts, who work as cooks, gardeners, waiters, beach cleaners and dishwashers at Hotel Milena, the only accommodation facility on the island.

She is also the supervisor of the prisoner rehab program. Over the past 12 years, Manca has dealt with around a hundred offenders on probation for a multitude of crimes, including murder.

Although she notes that many of the inmates have been convicted for far more than “stealing daisies,” Manca has always felt comfortable on the island and considers it to be something

Did you know?

Certain characters in the Chinese language are ambigrams, meaning they can be read upside down. For example, the word for “upside down” can actually be flipped and still read “upside down.”

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of a safe harbor.

“I believe in the power of redemption and that even offenders should be given a second chance, they shouldn’t rot behind bars but be actively involved in rehab tasks,” she says. “I like to see them return to life through work.”

Known as the “Queen of Pianosa,” Manca admits that her job has raised eyebrows among her friends and loved ones due to the perceived risks of being the only woman alongside a group of convicts.

“People kept saying I was mad to take on such a job,” says Manca. “To be the only woman to work and live sideby-side with male offenders who haven’t been accused of light crimes.

“But I’ve never felt scared nor worried. I’ve never given it a second thought. I feel safer with them here than back in the city with all those crazy people running around, you never know who you might bump into.”

Sounds like a safe house.

Watch Tower If you need to know the time and are really tall, Dubai has the perfect clock for you.

The Aeternitas Tower, officially unveiled at a launch event last week, will be the world’s tallest residential clock tower at a staggering 1,476 feet tall — more than four times the height of London’s Big Ben and just 72 feet short of the world’s tallest residential building, the Central Park Tower in New York City.

Despite its towering size, Dubai’s clock tower won’t be as tall as the Makkah Clock Royal Tower in Mecca, Saudi Arabia. Still, it’ll soar above the city.

The face of the clock itself will be a whopping 131 feet tall and 98 feet wide.

The building itself will house 649 residential units, with a mix of one- to three-bedroom apartments, in addition to villa and mansion duplexes. Oh, and there will be a range of amenities for residents who are probably going to be paying top dollar to live in the soaring complex.

The building is set to be completed in 2027, so until then, you can use your phone to find out the time.

Unlawful Lawmaker Golriz Ghahraman has been a member of the parliament in New Zealand since 2017, when she was the first refugee to be sworn into the lawmaking body. But this week, the 43-year-old resigned.

The reason?

Ghahraman had been caught shoplifting at least twice in videos shown on news media.

“I fell short. I’m sorry,” she said on Tuesday. “The best thing for my mental health is to resign as a member of Parliament.”

She is a former United Nations human rights lawyer originally from Iran. The videos of her pilfering items from stores started appearing earlier this month.

Some reports also published a CCTV video that appeared to show Ghahraman taking a handbag from a clothing store.

Police are investigating the incidents.

This week, while announcing her retirement, Ghahraman did not mention the shoplifting allegations but said that she could not explain her behavior because it was “not rational in any way,” adding that after medical evaluation, “I understand I’m not well.”

She said that her behavior was consistent with “recent events giving rise to extreme stress response” and related to

past trauma.

During her time in Parliament, Ghahraman promoted refugee and migrant rights. Most recently, she had expressed her support for the Palestinian population and worn a traditional kaffiyeh scarf in Parliament.

That sort of explains things…

He Can Canoe; Can You?

Dale “Greybeard” Sanders is now the oldest person to paddle the length of the Mississippi River.

He departed from Lake Itasca, Minn., on his 87th birthday and arrived, 87 days later, at Luling, La., earning the Guinness World Record for achieving the feat at the age of 87 years and 87 days.

The Tennessee man traversed the river in a 15-foot, 6-inch canoe named, aptly, “Perseverance.”

This is not the first time that Greybeard sailed the river. He had first paddled the length of the Mississippi at the age of 80 in the summer of 2015. But someone else nabbed the title from him, and so he endeavored to take it back.

“I just couldn’t turn down the opportunity to reclaim my personal record and at the same time get a new, official Guinness World Records title,” the octogenarian told Guinness World Records.

This time, a film crew followed him as he paddled 2,340 miles merrily down the river and produced a documentary called, “The Man, the Myth, and the Mississippi.”

Sounds like he’s making waves.

Did you know?

Chinese is filled with similar sounding words and has five different tones, making it a very hard language to learn.

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Around the

Community Israel / IDF Chesed Center – A Week to Remember!

Making tzitzit in the chamal

Orly, Chevy, and Sara Tova with their teacher, Coach Raylie Bodner

The Ben-Simon family with a photo of their cousins from Kfar Aza who were all killed on October 7

Rabbi Wolowik with Liron Ben-Simon

W

hile we all wish that the IDF Chesed Center, and all the other organizations that are supporting our Chayalim, will soon be put out of business with the end of the war, for as long as we are needed, we will be there for our brothers and sisters.

224 Duffel Bags on 1 El Al Flight This past week was monumental, not only for our operation but for the group of “Chamalim” in the NY/NJ area that are working hand-in-hand, “b’yachad,” to procure, transport and distribute critical gear and cold weather clothing throughout Israel. Last Thursday, the IDF Chesed Center, Bergen County B’lev Echad, and Boots for Israel sent 224 duffel bags on a single El Al flight from Newark! In order to make it happen, the volunteers brought a Sefer Torah to the airport and made a Shacharit Minyan in the terminal, ensuring that our bags were sent off with

the appropriate tefillot to Hashem.

BBY 4th Graders Raise $800 for Chayalim The previous night, the IDF Chesed Center hosted Chevy Benayon, Sara Tova Shuckman and Orly Ganz, three 4th graders at Bnos Bais Yaakov, who ran a bake sale and raised $800 which they donated towards purchasing thermals for Chayalim in Israel. Accompanied by their moms, Orly, Chevy and Sara Tova presented us with their donation, which we immediately put to use by ordering 120 sets of thermals. On Friday, the girls returned to pack the thermals and to write letters to soldiers, together with one of their teachers, Raylie Bodner. By Sunday, all 120 pairs had been sent to Israel, and by Tuesday, they were all distributed to Chayalim in the North. Kol Hakavod to the girls for their efforts, and we hope that their efforts will inspire others in the

community – adults and children – to “step up” and make a difference.

Israel Action Event with YILC Sunday, January 14, saw over 150 members of our community join the Israel Action Event, co-sponsored by the Young Israel of Lawrence-Cedarhurst. Together we made dozens of pairs of tzitzit, wrote hundreds of letters to soldiers, and prepared over 5 big boxes of Handwarmers/ WarmHands packages which will be sent to Israel this week.

Bar Mitzvah of Ma’ayan BenSimon On Monday, January 15, the IDF Chesed Center hosted the bar mitzvah of Ma’ayan Ben-Simon of North Woodmere.

Ma’ayan’s sister is a lone soldier, and his cousins, the Kutz family, Hy”d, lived in Kfar Aza, and were murdered on Simchat Torah. Ma’ayan’s parents, Yael and Liron, had planned a “packing event” in their

home, intending to pack 10 duffel bags of blankets to distribute to lone soldiers.

When they came to the Chesed Center to pick up some duffel bags, they decided, on the spot, to relocate the Bar Mitzvah celebration to our “chamal.” Nearly 200 people – family and old friends of the Ben-Simons, plus a ton of “new” friends from around the community, came to celebrate Ma’ayan’s bar mitzvah. We were joined

by Rabbi Zalman Wolowik of Chabad of the Five Towns, who helped Ma’ayan and his friends, and Ma’ayan’s dad, Liron, put on Tefillin, and spoke about the importance of uniting with our extended family in Israel in fighting this war.

The Israel / IDF Chesed Center is planning a host of activities and is spearheading the Five Towns “Shabbat – Beyachad Nenatze’ach” from February 8-11, an event that will unite the entire 5T/FR community in support of our Chayalim.

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Around the Community

Matir Asurim at Shulamith

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T Rav Shlomo Avigdor Altusky, Rosh Yeshiva, and Rav Yaakov Bender, Rosh HaYeshiva, walking with talmidim at Yeshiva Darchei Torah

he Shulamith girls have been fervently davening, together with the rest of the Jewish world, for the release of our dear brothers and sisters who are being held captive in Gaza, for the safe return of our precious soldiers, and for all the injured.

Every morning, our three eighth grade classes who daven in the school auditorium pause before the bracha of “Matir Asurim.” Our girls are reminded about the meaning of the bracha and

about focusing on the hostages. Every morning the full Hebrew names of two more hostages are read, and three girls are chosen to each make the bracha of “Matir Asurim” out loud, with extra kavana, to which the rest of the students answer a heartfelt Amein. Then all the rest of the girls make an impassioned bracha of “Matir Asurim.”

May Hashem answer all of our tefillot speedily, and may our shvuyim return home safely and intact to their families.

A Poignant Display of Solidarity

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n a poignant display of solidarity, Middle School students at HAFTR recently adorned themselves with stickers labeled “101,” serving as a collective reminder that 101 days had passed since the Israeli hostages were taken and the war in Gaza commenced. This heartfelt initiative, spearheaded by dedicated Hebrew teachers, sought to keep the community mindful of the ongoing challenges faced by our Chayalim.

As part of the day’s initiative, students, led by their Hebrew teachers, created impactful videos featuring class chants of “bring them home now.” The somber yet powerful one-day campaign served as a moving tribute to the struggles faced by our brave Chayalim and stood as a compelling call for unity and continued prayers for the well-being of our brothers and sisters in captivity.

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Last week, Rabbi Shalom Axelrod met the over 90 Young Israel of Woodmere members at Traditions Restaurant in Boca Raton, FL. He discussed his recent mission to Israel with them.

Central Puts Positivity Into Action With Mizrachi Mission to Israel

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n line with Yeshiva University High School for Girls’ theme of the month, Positivity in Action, a cohort from Central traveled to Israel to participate in a Mizrachi solidarity mission. Under the leadership of Central’s Associate Principal, Ms. Leah Moskovich, and Central Programming Director and Judaic Studies faculty member, Ms. Sydney Daitch, Central students Atara Feldman (‘26), Sarah Galanti (‘27), Eliana Goldman (‘26), Evie Haar (‘26), Shalhevet Koenigsberg (‘26), Malka Lavner (‘26), Meira Levine (‘26), Shirel Shaool (‘26), Orly Spinner (‘27), and Temima Teitelman (‘26) made the trip, along with Central parents Dr. Regine Galanti, Mr. Josh Haar, Mr. Josh Levine, and Mrs. Ziva Shaool, to confront challenging times with hope, intention, and energy.

“So many students and their families said, it’s not enough just to daven, it’s not

enough just to think about our brothers and sisters in Israel – we want to actually come to Israel to do our part, and to be a part of this amazing country and people,” said Ms. Moskovich “It is the biggest zechut that I’m able to be with my students and their parents, and that we can do this together.”

The mission included four jampacked days of chesed, including creating and running a carnival for over sixty children from families evacuated from Sderot, planting vegetables in Klachim, visiting wounded soldiers at Soroka Hospital, and helping to move displaced families into housing in Ashalim by cleaning, transporting goods, and running groups to entertain children while their new households were being set up. Central students also made a barbecue for chayalot at one of the only all-female army bases in Israel. Chesed activities were

accompanied by educational experiences – the group had the opportunity to visit Central’s Israeli sister school, Ulpanat Bnei Akiva Lachish, and to reconnect with those who have also become a part of the Central community. The group also met with famed Israeli cartoonist and animator Asher Schwartz, whose work can be found in The Jewish Press, among other places. A special visit to Yerushalayim was also part of the trip.

The students davened at the Kotel, took a tour of the Old City, had a meaningful tour of Har Herzl, made tzitzit with Rabbanit Shani Taragin at Matan, in addition to making 200 sandwiches at Crave for chayalim at a local army base.

“There were so many incredible opportunities for chesed,” said sophomore Shalhevet Koenigsberg. “Farming, making tzitzit for chayalim, cleaning houses for displaced families. But my favorite

chesed was running carnivals for displaced families. Although the tragedy these families just experienced was horrific, the kids were seen laughing and smiling throughout the carnival, and this showed me what true koach is. I really felt connected to Am Yisroel while I was there – I felt like I was putting all my efforts into doing my part in this war.”

The students were particularly grateful to Ms. Moskovich and Central leadership for investing time and care into this mission. “Her kind and nurturing nature made me feel so comfortable and safe,” Shalhevet said. “I really feel like I gained so much from this trip.” The Central community continues to daven for the hostages and all of the chaylim and their families.

Am Yisrael Chai!

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Rabbi Eliezer Feuer, Manhig Ruchni at Yeshiva Ketana of Long Island, delivered inspirational lessons learned from the life of Rav Matisyahu Salomon, zt”l

YOSS Holds In-House Shatnez Factory

R

abbi Avrohom Berenstein, the Kriah specialist at YOSS, is also a certified shatnez checker and currently runs the Bayswater Shatnez Laboratory. Rabbi Rosenwasser’s 8th grade shiur at YOSS learned about shatnez in Chumash shiur. Recently, Rabbi Berenstein gave a hands-on, interactive shatnez presentation. It covered the halachos and practical applications of shatnez. The talmidim learned

about the numerous procedures in wool and linen thread manufacturing and garment construction. They witnessed a suit, pants, and tie being checked for shatnez. They then worked in groups to dissect different threads into fibers and used microscopes to identify the various fibers, based on Rabbi Berenstein’s presentation. The talmidim experienced the fusion of modern-day science and the practical halacha.

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The Power of Tefillah Grows at HAFTR

I

n a heartwarming ceremony this past Sunday, the halls of HAFTR resonated with the jubilant voices of first graders as they proudly received their siddurim at the annual Chagigat Siddur celebration. This pivotal moment marked a crucial step in their journey toward becoming knowledgeable and devoted individuals who embrace the transformative power of tefillah.

Amidst a vibrant atmosphere, family members and friends gathered to witness this significant milestone, underscoring the intergenerational significance of the day. The celebration not only symbolized the individual achievements of these young learners but also embodied the timeless continuity of our people and our mesorah.

The siddur now holds a special place in the hands of these first graders, serving as a tangible link to their heritage.

They received a bracha from HAFTR Lower School’s Mashgiach Ruchani Rabbi Asher Klein, who blessed them that they should use this opportunity to begin praying with even more intention, as the blessings of children are always the purest.

First grade teachers and Morot Etia Cohen, Rebecca Feuer, Brittany Gannon, Miriam Green, Debra Haft, Penina Klein, Shterny Farkash, Rosy Geisinsky, Adina

Isler, Rivky Lock, Aviva Parnes, Miriam Rosenberg, and Julia Rubin, together with the music teacher, Janet Goldman, skillfully guided the students in singing heartfelt songs inspired by the timeless words of the Torah and tefillah, creating an atmosphere brimming with spirituality and connection.

The students, expressing their deep affection for Israel, added a vibrant touch to the ceremony by waving Israeli flags and joyfully singing a spirited rendition of “Am Yisrael” by Yaakov Shwekey. An extraordinary and moving element to the ceremony included heartfelt best wishes and a Mazal Tov conveyed by Chayalim serving in Israel, as well as a special message from Yaakov Shwekey himself!

Following the ceremony, the students were treated to a series of engaging workshops and experiences facilitated by the first grade Morot. Students exercised

their creativity by designing personalized covers for their newly acquired siddurim, infusing the experience with a sense of ownership and identity. Other activities included a digital game that reinforced students’ newfound knowledge of Jewish prayers, as well as decorating siddur frames with students’ photos.

The entire event radiated the greatness of the Jewish mesorah, highlighting the joy that comes with embracing prayer as a focal point of Jewish life.

The commitment to passing down these prayer traditions from generation to

generation was evident in the presence of family members spanning multiple age groups. In a seamless continuation from the ceremony, the very next day at school, students eagerly began using their personalized siddurim, excited for the boundless opportunities for spiritual growth through prayer. The annual Chagigat Siddur celebration at HAFTR not only equipped these young minds with a powerful tool for connecting with their heritage but also added another enriching chapter to the tapestry of Jewish prayer connections.

Aryeh Kunsler visited Lev Chana on Friday for some Pre-Shabbat ruach. Students sang along and had a great time

Did you know?

The YOSS Forensics Club used play-doh to make imprints of tire treads and poured Plaster of Paris over the treads to make a mold

In Chinese, each character represents a word or a meaningful unit, which is different from alphabetic scripts like the ABCs or Aleph-Beis.

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Around the Community

Great Boots from Great Neck: Community Unites to Support Israel’s Soldiers

By Debbie King and Jeffrey Galler

A

lmost all of us in the Jewish community have been captivated by the images of IDF soldiers in action, both in Gaza and along the Lebanese border. However, were you aware that more than 27,500 of these brave soldiers are now equipped with brand-new combat boots, courtesy of the dedicated efforts of Boots for Israel?

While these numbers are certainly impressive, the need to do more is immense. Boots for Israel is staffed and run entirely by volunteers who are passionate about supporting our IDF soldiers and ensuring their safety and effectiveness.

If you share this passion and are eager to make a meaningful contribution, we wholeheartedly invite you to join our community of over 400 volunteers, hailing from the tri-state area, Boston, California and Israel (BootsForIsrael@yiholliswood.org).

A Remarkable Boot Packing Event Amidst the angst of war, a story of unity and support has emerged from the Jewish community in Great Neck, at a January 7 special event.

This event, organized by friend and lifelong Great Neck resident Marc Yehaskel and Boots for Israel founder Yakir Wachstock, brought together hundreds of volunteers of all ages, for a labor-intensive, boot packing extravaganza at the Great Neck Synagogue.

The volunteers worked tirelessly to

Children wrote heartfelt notes that were inserted into the boots

L-R: Boots for Israel Founder Yakir Wachstock, Congressional candidate Mazi Pilip, and her son Ethan

Standing on a pile of duffel bags are from left to right, Rabbi Dale Polakoff, Marc Yehaskel, Mazi Pilip, Yakir Wachstock, and Mayor Pedram Bral

organize, label, pack, and tag an astonishing 6,000 boots into 500 duffel bags.

The bags were delivered to El Al airlines and flown to Ben Gurion airport, where dedicated volunteers promptly picked them up and quickly distributed them to IDF soldiers.

mand for tens of thousands of new boots.

And, the rough terrain and harsh weather conditions in both the northern and southern regions have greatly exacerbated the situation. Boots for Israel responds promptly to daily urgent requests for specific types and sizes of U.S Army-grade tactical boots, for specific individuals and units across Israel.

For its January 7 event, a very generous anonymous donor helped energize the volunteers, by providing music, pizza, bagels, cream cheese, and drinks.

And, the participants, ages two to ninety-two, were inspired by the presence of Great Neck Synagogue Rabbi Dale Polakoff and his wife, Ellen. The Rabbi not only supported the effort enthusiastically, but also personally “rolled up his sleeves” and spent the whole day packing, clearing, and generally making sure to accommodate all the needs of the Boots for Israel volunteers.

She served in the Israel Defense Force‘s Paratroopers Brigade, earned a bachelor’s degree at the University of Haifa, and a master’s degree in diplomacy and security at Tel Aviv University.

An Orthodox Jew with seven children, she and her cardiologist husband live in Great Neck. She represents Long Island’s 10th district in the Nassau County Legislature and is running for Congress in New York’s 3rd Congressional district in the upcoming special election on February 15.

One participant exclaimed, “We are all Crazy for Mazi! Can you imagine?

With her busy campaigning schedule, she took the time to help us pack boots.

Mazi Pilip is amazing!”

Fulfilling the Critical Need for New Combat Boots The need for these new combat boots became apparent when many of the 300,000 IDF reservists reported to duty with old, torn, and barely serviceable boots, some held together with duct tape.

According to IDF General Daniel Jacob, the army, taken completely by surprise, is unable to fulfill the sudden de-

A Touch of Politics The synagogue was also very honored and inspired by the presence of Mayor Pedram Bral, the Mayor of Great Neck, a great friend and supporter.

The group was further inspired by the appearance of Nassau County Legislator Mazi Pilip. Born in Ethiopia, she immigrated to Israel when she was 12 years old as part of Operation Solomon, a covert Israeli military action that secretly airlifted over 14,000 Ethiopian Jews to Israel in a day and a half.

How can you help?

Boots For Israel Demand for boots keeps rising.

In order to volunteer or to donate, please visit online at: t hechesedf und.com/ bootsontheground/bootsforIsrael (Checks can be made out to the Young Israel of Holliswood, and please note in memo, “For - Boots for Israel.”)

Mazi Pilip for Congress Mazi Pilip currently represents Long Island’s 10th district in the Nassau County Legislature and is running for Congress in a special election on February 15. To volunteer or to donate, please visit maziforny.com.

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Around the Community

Kfar Aza: 100 Days

By Tammy Mark

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he Jewish community recently marked 100 days since the October 7th massacre by Hamas.

This number marks 100 days since the deadliest day in Jewish history since the Holocaust, 100 days of precious and vulnerable souls being held hostage in unthinkable conditions, and 100 days of brave soldiers risking their lives in a battle for existence. For the families of the Gaza border communities, this date also marks the 100 days since their peaceful beautiful lives in Israel were completely overturned.

Ami and Tomer Ades recently spoke at the Woodmere home of Heidi and Jonathan Talansky, bravely retelling their personal story of survival from the horrific day of October 7. Residents of kibbutz Kfar Aza, the Ades family was brought to the Five Towns community through Dr. Michele Waldman Sarna, a psychologist at SAR Academy who had heard them speak on a school mission. The family came to the States for some respite and to help their Kfar Aza community by sharing their story.

Kfar Aza is one of the kibbutz communities in southern Israel, located between Netivot and Sderot, approximately three miles east of Gaza. Amit first describes how living in Kfar Aza has always been “95 percent heaven and 5 percent hell.”

Their community was a place where

children played freely, the doors had no locks, friends and neighbors were like family – all connected to one another, sharing history and happy moments together throughout their lifetimes. Their bucolic existence would be punctuated at rare times by rockets overhead; before long, life would return to normal.

Amit then recounted the details of the day that will live infamy for their family, for the residents of Kfar Aza, and for all of the other victims of the vicious terrorist attacks perpetrated by Hamas. The Ades family was set to celebrate their son’s birthday that Shabbat; sirens blared and they ran to their safe room for shelter, where they would remain barricaded inside for the next 36 hours.

They tried to reach others by phone, with all messages going unanswered the WhatsApp chats, filled only with others pleading for help. They were fortunate to have a working iPad with videos to keep the children occupied and silent as they hid. They all ate birthday cake and tried to sleep a bit. Terrified, Amit and Tomer worked to stay calm for the three young children.

It seemed as there was no one coming to save them. They feared for their lives. The ammunition blared ceaselessly as their community was being destroyed around them. When they attempted to open the window for a bit of oxygen, or open the door to grab provisions from their main house during a lull in shoot-

ing, the putrid smells of war were overwhelming.

When their house was finally reached by the IDF, Amit and Tomer had to prove to them that they were indeed Israelis.

The terrorists had set up a base adjacent to their home, and the Ades family had been presumed dead. Once they were able to escape to relative safety, Amit and Tomer ran with their children, trying to shield them from the death and devastation around them. They saw their beloved hometown decimated. They soon learned the tragic fate of their closest friends and families.

The Ades family and the surviving Kfar Aza families were subsequently reunited and relocated. They are now living in a hotel far from their kibbutz. The residents were told that the plan is to remain there until September, until the next part of the plan is determined, with hopes that the Israeli government will be able to rebuild their kibbutz soon afterwards.

In the meantime, Amit explains that

Kfar Aza families are struggling in so many ways after living through their darkest nightmare. Traumatized and in mourning, most are also left with no possessions. They have received generous donations of toys and clothes and the like, yet they are typically residing in one room per family. Their days are filled with therapy sessions while trying to regain some sort of normal routine for themselves and their children. They have bills left to pay, and most of them have been unable to return to work.

The Ades family will return to Israel, but they intend to keep sharing their stories with Jewish communities – in hopes of helping their fellow community members survive this next part of their journey with dignity and comfort, and in hopes that the next 100 days sees a respite from the atrocities of war.

To help support Kfar Aza residents, visit the saracademy.org website and click “Support Israel Today.”

the leaders. The evening was topped off with a kumzitz led by our own Shulamith mother, Bracha Jaffe. Mothers and daughters went home thrilled to

have spent a wonderful Motzei Shabbat together!

SWO Mother Daughter Melava Malka

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he Annual Shulamith Mother Daughter Melave Malka for girls in grades Pre1A through fourth grades and their mothers is considered one of the highlights of the year, and this year did not disappoint. As the mother-daughter pairs entered Congregation Beth Shalom, the girls first had the opportunity to decorate gloves for their own use and hats to send to Israeli children, and then to take part in a delicious Melave Malka buffet. When they completed the activities, the main event started with the principal, Mrs. Ginsparg, reciting Tehillim with the crowd, and Kitah Bet girls leading the Hatikva and Ani Maamin. Morah Rachel Brier, Early Childhood Director, gave a Dvar Torah, and then the fun began! Yisrael Erps hosted an exciting and competitive

Game Show, known as Ein Od M’lvado.

The two teams of Am Yisrael Chai and Netzach Yisrael were neck in neck for a while until Am Yisrael Chai emerged

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Around the Community

At the Dinner to Memorialize Rabbi Shmuel Abba Katz on His 38th Yahrtzeit Photos by Ira Thomas

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Woodmere Resident Kevin Levy Shines in Argentina

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fter winning the Silver medal playing for the Shames JCC Boys U17 Basketball team in the JCC Maccabi games in Israel this past summer, Kevin Levy, a senior at HAFTR High School and a resident of Woodmere, represented the US National U18 Basketball team at the 15th Pan American Maccabi Games in Argentina. The games were held December 27-January 4 in Buenos Aires, Argentina.

Kevin started all 5 games for the undefeated USA team and contributed to the team with his shooting and lock down defense. Kevin tied for 2nd in the tournament with 62.5% in 3 point shooting and

tied for 1st place with 100% shooting on Free Throws.

The opening ceremony was held at Movistar arena and newly elected Argentina president Javier Milei addressed the athletes with an inspiring speech supporting the Jewish community. The U.S. delegation was welcomed to the U.S. Embassy by the U.S. Ambassador to Argentina, Marc Stanley, for an evening of dinner and a performance of Tango dancing.

The participation in the games proved to be more than just about basketball, as it proved successful in raising awareness of the Jewish identity of all the participants.

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Around the Community

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AL Academy held an Information Session for professionals and prospective parents on Sunday, January 7. Many gathered at TAL to hear about their innovative, research-based program and to tour the facility.

TAL is a new yeshiva elementary school for bright children who have a diagnosed Language Based Learning

Disability such as dyslexia. TAL opened in September with 18 children in three cohorts in grades 2-4. The Information Session program featured presentations by TAL principal, Mrs. Sara Taib; Kriah Director, Mrs. Brocha Kresch; and Dr. Lydia Soifer, the TAL Language and Methodology Consultant. Mrs. Taib kicked off the program by explaining

Yom HaIvrit at Yeshiva Har Torah

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eshiva Har Torah’s Hebrew Language Coordinator, Morah Ariana Mizrahi, orchestrated an exciting initiative dedicated to honoring Hebrew as a vibrant, spoken language. Partnering with Jewish Day Schools across the nation, the event aimed to fill the students with pride and joy in the Hebrew language. With the theme of Sfat Hakodesh and Eretz Hakodesh, the holy language and the holy land, each grade eagerly participated in tailored activities, spanning early childhood, elementary, and middle school. Students sang the song “Am Yisrael Chai,” taught to them by their Hebrew teachers. There were a number of creative activities, such as decorating bookmarks and writing postcards for the students, carefully curated by the Hebrew Language teachers.

The event also delved into the historical works of Eliezer Ben Yehuda, with 7-8 graders creating educational slideshows and posters exploring the connection between Am Yisrael and Hebrew. The Early Learning Center joined in on a Hebrew scavenger hunt, led by our very talented Bnot Sherut, while middle school students participated in an interactive bulletin board emphasizing Ben Yehuda’s pivotal role in modernizing Hebrew.

Another interactive activity facilitated by the Bnot Sherut was a bulletin board for

students to figure out the hidden words and terms using Gematria.

Morah Orit Klein added a tasty touch by wrapping individual biscuits with Hebrew messages that were then distributed to teachers and students. The reasoning behind the biscuit is that the Hebrew word for it is almost the exact same as how we know it in English, emphasizing the modernization of Ben Yehuda’s words.

This carefully developed series of activities was enjoyed by all students and staff and will certainly be an annual celebration for students to experience and enjoy.

who a TAL student is and what the TAL program does. Mrs. Kresch demonstrated how she implements her Kriah program. Parents were wowed by the progress TAL students have made in the few months since the beginning of the school year. Finally, Dr. Lydia Soifer described what the experience in school is like for a child with a Language Based Learning Disability. She spoke about how she has seen countless bright and capable children who were written off as dumb or lazy because they were not taught in a

JANUARY 18, 2024 | The Jewish Home

TAL Academy Information Session a Success

way they understood. Her talk resonated with many of the parents in attendance, many of them nodding in agreement throughout her speech.

After the presentation by the TAL administration, TAL premiered their TAL video. Afterwards, Rabbi Aryeh Dachs, Executive Director, gave a tour of the TAL facility. Application season is underway. TAL is excited to expand to include children in grades 1-5 for the 2024/2025 school year.

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Around the Community

On Monday, January 8, members of the NYPD Shomrim Society met with Chief of Personnel John Benoit to discuss ways to recruit more Jews to the police department.

Stanley Cups at 5 Towns Hockey

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he Stanley Cup was awarded in each age group in the 5 Towns Hockey League this past week.

The championship games were truly remarkable, with the outcome being decided in the final minutes. The atmosphere in the gym was filled with palpable excitement as numerous fans and parents passionately cheered for their sons.

Eli Brazil, one of the league’s commissioners, expressed his satisfaction, stating, “We couldn’t have asked for a better season.” The teams demonstrated fairness and competitiveness, resulting in an enjoyable experience for everyone involved. We eagerly anticipate the upcoming season, scheduled to commence in February. For further information, please visit www.5townssports.com.

More than 100 people showed up to walk/run in Cedarhurst Park in solidarity with those in Israel in commemoration of 100 days since the October 7th massacre

YCQ Students Receive Their First Siddurim

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azal tov to Morah Jennifer’s classes (1-202 and 1-203) and to Morah Sophia’s classes (1-200 and 1-201) at YCQ on receiving their first siddurim! All the students performed beautifully and wowed all the guests in attendance. Parents, grand-

parents, and relatives were so impressed with the confidence, commitment, enthusiasm, and knowledge of how to use a siddur that the talmidim and talmidot displayed. May their tefillot take on a whole new meaning as they daven with their new siddurim!

The Manchester, Our Newest Communal Gathering Place

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he Five Towns community is eagerly embracing our newest communal gathering place. The Manchester was created to serve as a meeting place for the mature women. The brainchild of Daniella Wolfson and Chavie Mandelbaum, the programming being offered has been receiving rave reviews.

Founders of the popular “Ladies and Latte” programming, created years ago, providing our women with the opportunity to connect with their contemporaries whilst enjoying a delicious lunch and a stimulating program on a monthly basis, Daniella and Chavie have now moved a giant step forward. The Manchester, located at 138 Woodmere Blvd, has been beautifully refurbished, providing a most welcome and charming setting.

The programming being offered, five days a week, is quite diverse. The December calendar included the following activities: Israeli dancing, pendant jewelry making, inspirational kumzits/ singalong, challah bake and parsha, cooking and baking, knitting hats for

the chayalim, bone strengthening cardio class, chair yoga, and a trip to a miniature art exhibit in NYC. Lectures on relevant topics are being offered. A book club meets on a monthly basis. The traditional “Lunch and Latte” gathering now meets in the Manchester. Last month, the women enjoyed an outing to the Van Gogh Immersive art exhibit in the city. A chabura-style learning program is in the planning stages.

Coffee and tea are available. Women are invited, following the more formal classes, to sit around the comfy, round tables and become acquainted with one another. What a treasure we have in our community! Many thanks to Chavie and Danielle for recognizing the needs of our beloved mothers and grandmothers, filling the void so magnificently well.

Check out the website for the most current information regarding programming and class offerings: www.themanchester5t.org

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Around the Community

Ezra Academy’s Mitzvah Program

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zra Academy’s yearlong mitzvah program is continuing and just finished the next step in fostering spiritual growth among its students through the implementation of the Asher Yatzar Mitzvah Program. Asher Yatzar, the bracha recited to express gratitude for the intricate design of the human body and the seamless functioning of its various systems, is often overlooked. The program at Ezra Academy was designed to instill a sense of mindfulness and appreciation for the gift from Hashem of health and well-being.

At the heart of this mitzvah initiative

lies a commitment to religious education that goes beyond the conventional classroom setting. The program engaged students in meaningful classroom discussions, promoting a deeper understanding of the significance behind the bracha.

Students actively practiced and were encouraged to memorize the bracha, creating a sense of community and excitement. Students even ecorded themselves saying the bracha and posted it to our Mitzvah WhatsApp chat! Raffles for prizes and gift cards were held for those who participated.

Ezra Academy’s approach extends

beyond the theoretical, incorporating experiential learning and community involvement. Students were encouraged to explore the practical implications of the Asher Yatzar in their daily lives, hearing stories and studying the wonders of our bodies. The program serves as a catalyst for instilling values of gratitude, compassion, and mindfulness, essential pillars in the development of a well-rounded Jewish teen.

We can’t wait for the next part of our Mitzvah Program. Stay tuned!

GOP Activates Grassroots Leaders for Mazi Pilip Campaign

By Moshe Hill

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t the Milleridge Cottage in Jericho, over 800 people gathered in a downpour to begin the doorto-door campaigning for Mazi Pilip, GOP candidate for the Special Election to Congress. The crowd consisted of elected representatives, local party leaders, and volunteers who signed up enthusiastically to canvas, call and put up signs for Mazi.

Mazi Pilip is an Ethiopian-born Israeli who served in the IDF’s paratrooper brigade before immigrating to Great Neck. She and her husband are raising seven children, the youngest of whom was born mere weeks before Mazi won her first election for County Legislator in 2021, defeating a 4-term incumbent

Democrat.

At the campaign event, newly inaugurated Presiding Officer for the Nassau County Legislature Howard Kopel spoke fondly of his time serving in the Legislature with Mazi and how his loss was Congress’s gain. Nassau Police Commis-

Keeping Healthy at TAG

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hvat is Talmidos B’rios month at the Ganger Early Childhood Center at TAG. The excitement kicked off on Rosh Chodesh, when the girls had a special obstacle course/bounce house followed by healthy treats which were generously donated by Gourmet Glatt!

Did you know?

Mandarin Chinese is the most spoken language globally, with over a billion native speakers.

sioner Patrick Ryder spoke about Mazi’s commitment to law enforcement. A parade of town council members, supervisors, legislators, from Oyster Bay, Long Beach, Levittown, Great Neck, Massapequa, Glen Cove, and everywhere else in the Third Congressional District got

Candidate Mazi Pilip with Legislators, Councilmembers and Supervisors

up to the microphone to urge the crowd to call their family, friends, and neighbors to get them out to vote.

The special election takes place on Tuesday, February 13.

Presiding Officer of the Nassau County Legislature Howard Kopel

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Around the Community

Yeshiva Kol Torah Dinner Celebrates “A Harmonious Symphony”

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n an impressive display of unity and support, over 300 people gathered at the White Shul in Far Rockaway last week to partake in an extraordinary kiddush Hashem, expressing their support for Yeshiva Kol Torah.

The evening, aptly titled “A Harmonious Symphony,” featured a powerful blend of hachzokas haTorah, inspiring

divrei Torah, beautiful melodies, and an atmosphere pulsating with simcha.

Dubbed “The Voice of the Ben Torah,” the program paid homage to the resounding voices of Yeshiva Kol Torah, highlighting the talmidim and their remarkable achievements.

Attendees enjoyed a delectable buffet dinner that set the stage for an uplifting

program.

After the recital of Tehillim in light of the matzav in Eretz Yisroel led by Rav Elysha Sandler, the emcee, Nochum Wolf, opened the program.

Although a last-minute scheduling conflict prevented Rav Elya Brudny from attending in person, the crowd was treated to his impassioned address via video. He spoke of the illustrious mesorah passed down to the roshei yeshiva, Rabbi Dovid Opoczynski and Rabbi Boruch Wasser, who diligently transmit it to the next generation, the talmidim of Kol Torah.

A feature video presentation, titled “Hear it From Their Voices,” offered a captivating glimpse into the heart of the yeshiva. Talmidim shared personal experiences, describing the aliyah and growth they’ve experienced at Kol Torah, leaving the audience deeply impressed by their genuine love of Yeshiva.

Following the video, Rabbi Wasser delivered Divrei Torah, describing in vivid detail the joy of learning Torah b’simcha and its profound impact on a talmid.

Simcha Leiner and Yeshiva Kol To-

rah’s Nachi Kaufman then took the stage, mesmerizing the crowd with a soul-stirring rendition of Torah Hakedosha.

Simcha and the yeshiva’s talmidim then joined together, singing Mamleches Kohanim.

Rabbi Opoczynski presented the yeshiva’s inaugural Founders Award to Rabbi and Mrs. Moshe Katz, acknowledging their pivotal role in founding the yeshiva. They received a standing ovation from the crowd.

Following the program, dessert was served and a kumzitz led by Simcha Leiner featured the participation of the Kol Torah bochurim. A wave of singing and spirited dancing followed, celebrating the bochurim’s growth and accomplishments.

The event left attendees uplifted and inspired. In the words of one participant, “I’ve never experienced such an incredible yeshiva dinner before. Everyone was so positive and thrilled to be there. I eagerly anticipate joining Yeshiva Kol Torah next year at their dinner, be’ezras Hashem!”

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Around the Community

Mercaz Academy “Flies” to Israel on Rosh Chodesh Shevat Mercaz Academy–usually located in Plainview, New York–loved celebrating Tu B’Shvat by “flying to Israel” last year. This year, however, students in first through sixth grade were upset to learn that Tu B’Shvat would occur during winter break.

Would this cause their flight to be canceled? They were relieved to learn that the trip had been rescheduled for Rosh Chodesh Shevat instead.

Once again, they entered the main hallway to find it lined with double rows of seats and a center aisle, just like an airplane–and at the front, an El Al Airlines boarding safety video being screened.

After boarding, Mrs. Aileen Kirschenbaum, the second grade teacher, shared her recent experience of flying to Israel in a more conventional airplane to work as a volunteer in Israel. Mrs. Kirschenbaum explained that, with so many serving as soldiers right now, Israel needed

help with harvesting the crops, so she picked oranges and cucumbers while she was visiting. However, on this trip, there would be time only to visit the shuk.

It was a remarkably quick flight to Israel, seeming to go by in a matter of minutes. After enjoying a Hebrew language in-flight video starring former Mercaz Academy students now living in Israel, the passengers disembarked and pondered how to spend their shekalim–and how to ask for what they wanted in Hebrew, because no English would be spoken once they entered the shuk.

Israeli vendors–native Israeli, Hebrew-speaking Mercaz parents paired with the most proficient Ivrit students from third through sixth grade–shouted to attract customers as the remaining students wandered the narrow “streets,” buying pickles and olives, “chips” (French fries in English), dates and raisins (to

represent the seven Israeli species), juices, and Bissli. The American students negotiated prices, counted change, and enjoyed their Israeli shuk experience.

Mercaz Academy is grateful to our PTA, our parent volunteers, Rabbi Moshe Rubel, Morah Carmit Akhavan, and

Morah Levana Gil for arranging this wonderful flight to Israel for our students… and we are quite impressed that everyone made it back to our Plainview campus in time for lunch.

just barely scraped by Home & Stone 2825 in an exciting game. Dovid Bauman was named Game MVP for his key steals and clutch baskets down the stretch.

5th-7th: David Cohen pulled off a sweet crossover and score as Island Roofing scored 31 in their win Sunday afternoon. Solomon Licht led Wieder Orthodontics to a razor thin 27-23 victory over 5 Towns Podiatry.

down. Then he started kicking out to shooters for open 3s.

There were 6 lead changes and 5 ties in the second half, but Aaron Azose shook off a rusty shooting night with back to back baskets late. Gettenberg then iced the game with a steal and a free throw.

He finished with 13 points.

Posh, down 3 late, elected for a layup with 2 seconds left. They were unable to foul on the inbound and Town held on for the dramatic 1-point victory.

Game of the Week: In 4th/5th hockey, Extreme Vent Cleaning took a 4 goal lead over Miller Realty with just under 3 minutes left in the game but rookie coach Avraham Frisch rallied his guys.

Down a daunting 4 goals with very little time remaining, Miller Realty stormed back, scoring 4 straight goals to send the game to shootouts. In the 2nd round of shootouts Yosef Bryks notched one past the goalie into the top left corner of the net to give Miller the improbable and incredible win.

JSL Winter: Week 2 Recap

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t was week 2 of the JSL Winter Season by FM Home Loans this past Sunday. Basketball, football, and soccer divisions opened up their regular season and hockey played their 2nd regular season game. Men’s Basketball held their Championship game on Monday night, and it was a thriller.

JSL Juniors K/P Hockey: Shmuli Lazar and Yaakov Mermelstein both scored 2 goals in the first half alone to lead Graber Interior Design to victory. Johns Auto and SWS went back and forth with neither team able to score more than the other, resulting in a tie. Gavriel Dorfman played great for PIP Printing in their win over Posh Home + Bath.

K/P Soccer: In a close battle, Island Roofing prevailed over SWS behind Benny Frankel’s stellar defense. Shua Nataneli scored the game winning goal as Simcha Day Camp defeated Graber Interior Design 1-0.

Football: Zevi Berman recorded 2 INTs and a touchdown for Bright Futures as they beat Home & Stone 5-3. Shragi Klien played excellently for PinIt Realty in their 3-3 tie vs PIP Printing.

Hockey 1st: Dov Lowenstein was phenomenal, scoring 2 goals in PinIt’s 4-1 victory in the first afternoon game. Gavi Kestenbaum was a rockstar defensively, stop-

ping a bright Bright Futures’ offense to just 1 goal. 5Towns Central played amazing on Sunday, with great defensive help from Zev Jaroslawicz as they held I Am Your Chef to zero goals.

2nd/3rd: 2nd/3rd grade hockey was off this week due to MLK day.

4th/5th: Posh Home + Bath had trouble all game keeping the puck in Town Appliance’s zone due to Netanel Biegacz’s tremendous defensive effort and Elchonon Schwadel scored a HAT TRICK as Town Appliance breezed past Posh 5-2.

Rookie goalie Nathan Miska played incredibly in the final period, holding a powerful Marciano Pediatric Dentistry offense to just 1 goal to give JNT their first win of the season.

6th/8th: Aryeh Perl continued where he left off last week, recording a HAT TRICK for the 2nd week in a row, including the game winning goal in shootouts to give BayRock Insurance the 4-3 win over Wieder Orthodontics. Dovid Balter scored 4 goals and had 3 assists as 925 Sterling scored 10 goals in their decisive win over JNT. Basketball 3rd/4th: Judah Goldstein was incredible all game, leading Maidenbaum to a close 17-14 victory over I Am Your Chef.

Aaron Resnick scored 8 points and had a few steals, helping King Davids Contractors defeat Miller Realty. Newman Dental

Men’s Basketball Championships The JSL FM Home Loans Men’s Basketball Championship game took place on a snowy Monday night. Town Appliance and Posh Home & Bath faced off in a showdown of partner companies.

Eitan Gettenberg led Town Appliance to a 47-46 victory over Shelby Rosenberg and his team of veteran talent.

The game started with a burst of offense by Town Appliance and an early lead. But Shelby drew some fouls and knocked down FTs to settle his team

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JANUARY 18, 2024 | The Jewish Home

From the Frontlines to the Five Towns

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his past week, Yeshiva Ateres Eitz Chaim had the privilege to hear from IDF First Sergeant, Sharp Shooter, and Medical Squad Commander, Yoshi Rosenbluth. Yoshi was called up to serve in Central Gaza after the October 7th terrorist attack. Yoshi related how his emunah helped him stay mentally strong throughout extremely turbulent situations. Sergeant Rosenbluth told over miraculous events that occurred to him and his unit while in Gaza. He spoke about the mental hardships that soldiers and their families are suffering from daily with their loved ones at war as they take care and our raising their children alone. With tremendous Siyata D’shmaya and chizuk from his rabbeim, Yoshi spoke about overcoming personal challenges, facing fears, simchas ha’chaim, self-mastery, and most importantly, Jewish unity, and a kabbala which he took upon himself and is spreading, Shmiras Ha’Lashon. A central role that refraining from lashon hara has is keeping the achdus of Klal Yisroel and bringing the ultimate redemption!

After Yoshi’s inspirational address, the talmidim of Yeshiva Ateres Eitz Chaim took upon themselves (bli neder) to learn daily hilchos lashon hara as a zechus for the safety of all of our Chayalim and Chayalot and the quick return

home of our brothers and sisters who are being held hostage in Gaza.

Yoshi has been called back to serve near the Lebanon border and will be returning to Eretz Yisrael after his visit in the States. Please daven for Yoshi and his

brother as they return to the front lines to protect Am Yisrael: Yehoshua Mordechai ben Shoshana Blima and Dovid Yisroel ben Shoshana Blima.

Yeshuas Hashem keheref ayin!

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Around the Community

The Power of Tzedakah at HANC

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n HANC’s Elementary School in West Hempstead, the sixth grade girls have been focusing on the story of Chana in their Navi class. In order to develop a deeper understanding of the quality of empathy, the students have been learning about Chana’s painful experience with infertility and have been trying to imagine what that must have felt like for her. Over the course of their study, the children developed such deep empathy for Chana, that when she finally gave birth to a child, they spontaneously danced and sang, “Siman tov u’mazal tov,” to celebrate this tremendous simcha.

In Perek Bet, the big theme was arrogance versus healthy self-esteem. As Morah Daniella Guterman and Morah Aviva Sadigh guided the girls through the perek, they discussed how one should tap into the gifts that Hashem bestowed upon them and share these talents for the benefit of others. This led to a discussion about how the class could help couples who were struggling with infertility, and a new tzedakah project was hatched. The class decided to have a raffle, but instead of auctioning off gift prizes, the items for auction would incorporate each girl’s special talents. The

children conducted research to find two organizations that provide assistance for families who needed help in conceiving children. They then organized a raffle for the fourth through sixth grades, including a list of offerings such as: a private lesson in baking, drawing, piano playing, ballet, singing, dancing and sports. One unique offering was a “deep meaningful conversation/empathetic ear session.”

The faculty and staff also joined in with special privileges like: making the morning announcements, choosing the music to be played during lunchtime, providing a special game or treat for the winner and their class, and even a Shabbat lunch invitation for the winner and a friend.

Preparation for the big event became a wonderful leadership opportunity for many of the girls. They formed committees to take care of all of the various elements of the auction, from collecting the “prize” activities from students and staff, selling tickets, making posters and fliers to advertise the event, and labeling and decorating the raffle boxes. The level of enthusiasm was truly palpable, as the students bought their tickets and eagerly placed them in the boxes of the prizes they wished to win.

When the big event arrived, the win-

ners were announced at the weekly Rabbi Yehuda Kelemer zt”l Shabbat Assembly.

The sixth grade girls had worked tirelessly on this project and with tremendous results. Close to $900 had been collected from the tickets that were sold, and the money will be sent to Bonei Olam and Puah, two tremendous organizations who provide help and comfort to couples who are on their journey to becoming parents.

As Rabbi Ouriel Hazan, Head of HANC West Hempstead Campuses, ex-

Advocating for the Jewish People and Israel

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r. Altabe, HALB Lower School Principal, attended the OU Mission to Washington this past week with senators and congressmen to advocate for Israel and the Jewish people. He was part of a group of people from the Five Towns who met with our representative, Congressman Anthony D’Esposito. Mr. Altabe asked the members of

the OU to wear the number 96 to mark the number of days the hostages have been held in Gaza, as requested by Rachel, mother of Hersh Goldberg-Polin, who is still being held hostage. After Mr. Altabe’s suggestion, Rabbi Hauer presented senators with their own 96 stickers, many of whom agreed to wear it.

plained, “I am so proud of our students as they are showing the world how their power of caring and empathy for others can be turned into meaningful action, making a huge difference in the lives of others!”

HANC is so proud of these students, and trusts that this magnificent experience will give them deep sensitivity toward others as they begin their journey into womanhood as well as throughout their lifetime.

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Around the Community Photos by Moshe Gershbaum

Rav Shragie Polter, Harbotzas Torah Awardee

L-R: Rav Moshe Bender; Rav Yaakov Bender; Yehuda Baruch Fuchs; Shabse Fuchs, guest of honor; Lloyd Keilson, Rabbi Zev Bald.

Seated: Rav Shlomo Avigdor Altusky

L-R: Rav Moshe Bender; Ronald Lowinger; Rav Yaakov Bender; Dovid Roll, alumnus of the year awardee; Rav Shlomo Avigdor Altusky; Lloyd Keilson; Elisha Brecher; Aron Solomon

Aryeh Jacobowitz, alumnus of the year awardee

Yitzy Parnes, alumnus of the year awardee

Rav Elya Brudny arriving at the main ballroom

Adam Goller, Parents of the Year awardee

Elisha Brecher, co-chairman, board of directors

Rav Yaakov Bender, Rosh HaYeshiva

Motty Klein, co-chairman, board of trustees, saying the Kaddish at the Siyum Hagadol

Avraham Fried

Rav Elysha Sandler leading the assemblage in Tehillim for Acheinu Bnei Yisroel

Ronald Lowinger, president

Rav Moshe Bender, Sgan Rosh HaYeshiva

Rav Shlomo Avigdor Altusky, Rosh Yeshiva

Elie Schwab, dinner chairman

A partial view of the crowd at the NY Marriott-Brooklyn Bridge

JANUARY 18, 2024 | The Jewish Home

Yeshiva Darchei Torah Dinner Goes Beyond

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JANUARY 18, 2024 | The Jewish Home

The Jewish Home | JANUARY 18, 2024

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Around the Community

MAY Eagles Win Mesivta Football League Varsity Championship

T

he 12th season of the Mesivta Football League came to an end this week. This past Sunday, the undefeated, top-seeded Netzach Knights battled against the Cinderella-story, fourth seeded MAY Eagles in the Mesivta Football League’s Varsity Championship Game. In front of a standing room only crowd, the epic battle ensued and, when the dust settled, the MAY Eagles were victorious, 14-6.

A bitter cold winter afternoon would be the backdrop for an incredible demonstration of gritty defense and tenacious offense. Netzach struck first when, on the first drive of the game, veteran quarter-

back, Avi Gluck, found his receiver, Shua Skydell, who ran for over 50 yards and put Netzach ahead, 6-0.

MAY’s defense, however, took the “mussar” and locked it down. With incredible play on the D-line, led by J.J. Ostroff and Shmaryahu Jacobs, and tight coverage in the secondary, the Eagles wouldn’t let another one slip by.

MAY quarterback, Yosef Kreindler, would eventually find star receiver, Daniel Gewirtz, to put MAY on the board.

MAY’s tight-end, Shlomo Rosenthal, secured the lead on a tight-end leak route for the 2-point conversion, putting MAY ahead 8-6.

Towards the end of the first half, Kreindler, battling against the fierce Netzach D-line led by Shia Wallach, found wide-receiver, Chaim Shapiro, with a beautiful deep pass against the wind, putting MAY ahead, 14-6.

In the second half, the Knights came close to putting another score on the board with a deep 40-yard pass tipped up and brought down by Moshe Levy, but the MAY lock-down defense kept the second half scoreless, and MAY would go on to win the Golden Football.

“Obviously, the League was created to provide a healthy outlet for our kids here in the community on Sunday after-

noons,” commented League Administrator, Rabbi Yossi Bennett. “But when you get an incredible Championship game like this, with two outstanding teams, with incredible camaraderie between them, that’s just icing on the cake.”

The Mesivta Football League congratulates coaches Shua Behar and Dovid Puderbeutal and the MAY Eagles on their Championship victory and thanks all the participating schools – players, coaches, administrators and fans – for helping make this season so successful.

phenomena!

The fourth graders have been working tirelessly on Rube Goldberg and energy models!

They have been working collaboratively to formulate an actual Rube Goldberg machine! What’s a Rube Goldberg machine? It is a chain reaction, energy

transfer/cause/effect machine that is engineered to accomplish a specific goal.

This coincides with their “energizing energy” unit and will continue over the next few lessons.

Finally, our fifth graders have been studying the hydrosphere – in other words, all the water on Earth!

Science News at YOSS

T

he boys at YOSS have been having a great time in science class! Each grade has been applying their learned scientific concepts to create and perform fantastic hands-on activities!

First grade has been learning about the Magic of Sound and sound effects.

Most recently, students investigated vibrations as a source of sound effects. In one activity, students used their hands and feet to create a “rainstorm” and then used rulers to create a “boing” sound for a cartoon bouncy ball, along with other sound producing objects…it was so much fun!

The second graders have been learn-

ing about the properties of Insulators, and how important blubber is for an arctic animal to keep warm! They considered the insulating properties of different materials and put on blubber “gloves” made up of various insulating materials (foil, play-doh and Crisco) and compare/ contrast cold water with an uncovered hand, as opposed to being encased in “blubber.”

The third graders have been trying their hand at testing bridge strength, as well as learning about the importance of structural integrity and support. They were captivated by the “Galloping Gertie” story! Check out THAT historical

Did you know?

There are more than 50,000 Chinese characters in existence, but only 20,000 are commonly used by those who read the language.

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Around the Community

Shulamith Joins a New Initiative: Chayal of the Day

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H

ALB’s Production of Annie was a success! Students did an incredible job, led by Mrs. Gail Rusgo

and Mrs. Aliza Kramer. The production was professional, fun and entertaining!

ollowing the tragic events of Simchat Torah, we have all been thinking and praying for our precious chayalim, young and old, who are risking their lives, fighting to protect Am Yisrael and Eretz Yisrael. Shulamith recently joined the special and meaningful Chayal of the Day initiative so we can truly focus on our Chayalim.

Each day at the end of Tefilla, Morah Chani Pollak posts a picture of an individual Chayal together with his full Hebrew name, which we receive from chayaloftheday@gmail.com. A short description about the chayal is read, and the students keep him, among all our other dear boys, in mind as they say Tehilim and the Mi Shebairach. Pictures of the girls davening are taken, including a view of the Chayal on the screen, and sent to our school’s coordinator, who then forwards them to the families of those chayalim. The families are very

touched and warmed by these tefillot and some of them have reached back out to us with messages of how much the tefillot mean to them. They thank us, and they ask us to keep up our tefillot.

May we hear besurot tovot very soon, and may we merit the final geula b’karov!

If any school is interested in joining this special initiative, please email Chayaloftheday@gmail.com. The organization is looking for more schools to join so that together we can focus and daven for as many chayalim as possible.

A Gala Celebration: BJX Students Take Quantum Leap with Daily Commitments

by Mordechai Segal

I

n the heart of Flatbush is a magical place where people are making quantum, transformative life-changing decisions. Years ago, no one believed kiruv was needed in Flatbush. Even those who thought that kiruv was necessary, never dreamed that kiruv would succeed in Flatbush. Rabbi Yitzchok Fingerer, the rav of Brooklyn Jewish Xperience (BJX), engaged in a pioneering endeavor to save local Jews from assimilating. His modus operandi is ahavas HaTorah and ahavas Yisroel. Independently, he ventured forth to establish the first in-town Kiruv Beis Medrash and organization in North America.

Welcome to BJX where an epic victory and Kiddush Hashem occurred last Thursday evening. It was the celebration of a special bar mitzvah. Seven local college students and young professionals who were raised secular received tefillin after committing to wear it daily. They were honored in an emotional ceremony.

When a Jew takes the quantum leap to be immersed in Torah observance,

he is one in a million. The norm today isn’t to accept traditions that date back thousands of years but to assimilate and intermarry. Tragically, close to 80% of American Jewry are assimilating and intermarrying. BJX is truly counterculture and is one-by-one changing the face of Flatbush and all of Brooklyn.

The program began with the rabbis honoring Michelle, a graduate of the BJX public high school program, who is now studying in Alabama in medical school.

She was honored for her heroism on campus. Post October 7, she has faced terrible antisemitism for standing up for Israel and being an observant Jewess. Michelle was recognized for her staunch and unwavering commitment to Yiddishkeit.

The BJX students are in schools throughout America and are living around the world. Many students have made Aliyah.

Wherever the BJX alumni are, they are making a kiddush Hashem.

Michael, who is a student in an accelerated program at Baruch, arrived at BJX directly from the airport to receive his Tefillin. He spent his winter break in the Virgin Islands, where he proudly

performed mitzvos. It is almost inconceivable to think that a young man raised totally secular would have the bravado and courage to keep his connection to Yiddishkeit strong away from all religious influence.

It was an honor to have been graced by the presence of BJX founders Mr. and Mrs. Ralph and Yenny Herzka. Founding board member Mr. Avrumi Lieberman, Mr. Ari Munk and his father, renowned Houston philanthropist Dr. Zev Munk (he also came to BJX directly from the airport) also participated. Mr. Dovid Herzka, who has stood at the helm of the lay leadership of BJX, has given his heart and soul to BJX. His incredible devotion

and assistance have made the life changing miracles seen at BJX possible.

Blessed with extraordinary success, BJX has opened the frum communities in Brooklyn to a whole new world of Kiruv. Today, many kiruv organizations model their work after BJX’s style and approach. The BJX organization is quietly building worlds. Each Jew who accepts upon him or her self Torah and mitzvos is really one in a million. The BJX organization receives no support from foundations or nationwide organizations. They are supported by caring individuals who share their sacred mission of spreading Torah to all of achienu bnei Yisroel.

JANUARY 18, 2024 | The Jewish Home

HALB Presents: Annie

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Around the Community

As Amud HaYomi Set to Embark on Mesechta Shabbos, Gedolei Yisrael Urge the Learning of Shabbos as the Ultimate Shemira for Klal Yisrael

By Chaim Gold

“I

t is a time of war, a time when we need so much shemirah! How can we achieve shemirah? How can we invoke rachamei shomayim for all of Am Yisrael, for the soldiers at the front, for all those who live in Eretz Yisrael and for all Yidden around the world who are under attack?” exclaimed HaGaon HaRav Yitzchok Zilberstein, shlita, rav of Ramat Elchanan and one of the leading senior poskim of our time. “The answer is simple!

It is staring us in the face. It is a one-word answer. ‘Shabbos!’ Yes, when we keep Shabbos, enhance our shemiras Shabbos, Shabbos keeps us, Shabbos guards us from difficulty and tragedy!” Those passionate words of Rav Zilberstein were said at a seminal meeting with leaders of hanhalas Dirshu, led by the Nasi of Dirshu, Rav Dovid Hofstedter, shlita.

Rav Zilberstein was commenting on the hashgacha pratis that Dirshu’s two most popular learning programs will embark shortly on learning Masechta Shabbos – both Dirshu’s widely popular Amud HaYomi program and Daf HaYomi B’Halacha.

Shabbos is Shemirah!

Since its inception on Rosh Chodesh Cheshvan of this year, the Amud HaYomi program has opened nearly 1,000 shiurim the world over attracting more than 100,000 participants! The new daily limud “yomi” with which Dirshu has gifted Klal Yisrael has taken off in an unprecedented way, literally conquering the hearts and minds of Klal Yisrael – whether it is baalei battim seeking a limud that enables them to gain a kinyan and have a geshmak; whether it is kollel yungeleit seeking a systematic way of being koneh Shas while simultaneously learning it in a non-superficial way; whether it is bachurim¸ yes, thousands of bachurim, who have taken to the limud! There are even a number of yeshivos that actually have so many bochurim learning as part of the program that Dirshu has agreed to make those yeshivos into monthly testing sites, so that the bachurim do not even have to leave yeshiva to take the tests.

The Amud HaYomi will be beginning Masechta Shabbos in less than four weeks, 9 Adar 1/February 18, and it was about this that Rav Yitzchok Zilberstein and numerous other Gedolei Yisrael with whom Dirshu met have expressed their

HaRav Chizkiyahu Mishkovsky discussing the Dirshu Amud HaYomi Program with Hanhalas Dirshu

joy. “Shabbos is a shemirah,” is the message that came through loud and clear.

Not only will the Amud HaYomi begin learning Masechta Shabbos but Dirshu’s other massive program, its Daf HaYomi B’Halacha daily learning program will also embark on hilchos Shabbos, Chelek Gimmel of the Mishnah Berurah in a few months’ time. Thus, not only will lomdim be able to learn Masechta Shabbos with the Amud HaYomi, but at the very same time as they are deeply immersed in the sugyos of hilchos Shabbos they will also be able to learn the halacha l’maaseh of Shabbos with the Daf HaYomi B’Halacha program.

Leading Gedolei Yisrael including HaGaon HaRav Dov Landau, shlita, have urged the learning of hilchos Shabbos as a shemirah in response to the war that has been raging since Simchas Torah. Currently, anyone participating in Dirshu’s two flagship programs, has the opportunity to not only achieve a kinyan in Masechta Shabbos and hilchos Shabbos but also to bring rachamei shomayim upon Klal Yisrael who needs it so much during these trying times.

Twin Powers: Shabbos and Achdus When hanhalas Dirshu met with the Vizhnitzer Rebbe, shlita, in his home in Bnei Brak, Dirshu’s Rabbi Shlomo Rozenstein asked the Rebbe, “In what area should we seek to be mechazek ourselves in light of the current matzav?”

“Shabbos is the mekor habracha,” the Rebbe responded, “The Torah was given on Shabbos. Likras Shabbos lechu v’neilcha, when we come and meet Shabbos by engaging in learning about Shabbos and learning the halachos of Shabbos, we tap into the source of our bracha and that endows Klal Yisrael with a special shemirah.”

The Rebbe then turned his focus to Rav Hofstedter and highlighted another important ideal that brings Hashem’s shemirah on Klal Yisrael, the ideal of

HaRav Yitzchok Zilberstein reviewing Dirshu’s Sefer Iyun HaAmud

achdus, of bringing so much unity among Klal Yisrael. He said, “Dirshu has the zechus to bring tens of thousands of Yidden together in learning the Torah hakedosha. They are coming likras Shabbos, to greet the Shabbos by learning the Gemara and halachos of Shabbos. Embarking on this with so many Yidden together is a tremendous manifestation of achdus.

Certainly, the twin powers of achdus and Shabbos contain within them the most important ingredients needed by Klal Yisrael to prevail in these difficult times!” concluded the Vizhnitzer Rebbe.

Siyum on Masechta Brachos in Vienna History was made just over one hundred years ago when the Daf Hayomi was established by Rav Meir Shapiro at the First Kenessia Gedolah in 1923 in Vienna.

Now, history will once again be made on February 19 when the first Siyum of the Amud Hayomi cycle will be held in the same hall in Vienna on Mesechta Brochos. The Siyum in the Sofiensäle Hall will I”YH be graced by many Gedolim from across the world, commemorating this historical event.

HaGaon HaRav Chizkiyahu Mishkovsky, shlita, venerated Mashgiach of Yeshiva Orchos Torah and a talmid muvhak of HaGaon HaRav Aharon Leib Shteinman, delineated the remarkable, unprecedented success of the new Dirshu Amud HaYomi program as it is poised to conclude Masechta Brachos and embark on Masechta Shabbos.

He asked a question. “Why was Yehuda chosen by Yaakov Avinu to go to Mitzrayim before the other brothers to establish a yeshiva in Goshen? We know that shevet Yissochor was a shevet of Gedolei Torah. Why couldn’t Yissochor establish the yeshiva?”

He answered, in the name of the Nesivos Shalom of Slonim, that after a yeshi-

va has already been established, you can find many people who can give shiurim and help keep the yeshiva running properly. However, when it comes to starting a yeshiva, building a foundation for a new makom Torah, you need a “gur aryeh,” a lion like Yehuda, a revolutionary leader who has the power, initiative and tenacity to make sure it happens in the best way possible. “This pshat came to mind when I was thinking about the new, revolutionary Amud HaYomi program that Rav Hofstedter and Dirshu have gifted to Klal Yisrael,” Rav Mishkovsky continued.

“Just think when Rav Meir Shapiro established the Daf HaYomi, it was an extremely ambitious project. The program would not have caught on and become a Klal Yisrael limud without the support of the Gedolei Yisrael of that time, especially the support of the Imrei Emes of Ger. In this case, we have seen this program become a Klal Yisrael program in a matter of weeks or a few months!” Rav Mishkovsky exclaimed. “We see baalei battim who have so identified with the program because it allows for time to have a geshmak in learning. We see kollel yungeleit grabbing onto the program because it affords them a plan to learn Shas at a pace that they can understand and retain the knowledge. We see bachurim who have found such newfound energy in learning as a result of the program’s having caught on and even becoming an official seder in some yeshivos. Without a doubt this program is a tremendous zechus for Klal Yisrael!”

Perhaps Rav Yitzchok Zilberstein best encapsulated the Torah’s view on this by saying, “Everyone in Klal Yisrael must be involved in the battle for Eretz Yisrael.

Torah is akin to our atom bomb. It is the ultimate shemirah for Klal Yisrael and when Yidden embark on learning Masechta Shabbos and hilchos Shabbos with diligence and complete focus, there is no better shemirah for all of Klal Yisrael!”

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Around the Community

A Mission of Giving JANUARY 18, 2024 | The Jewish Home

A

fter being fortunate enough to visit Israel over Thanksgiving weekend for her cousin’s bar mitzvah, Nili Brukner, an Oceanside resident and 8th grader at HANC in Uniondale, NY, felt like she needed to do more for the hundreds of displaced children from Southern Israel. Prior to her November trip, Nili took about $40 of her own money and went to the dollar store to purchase items to bring with her for displaced children that she hoped to meet. Her brief trip in Israel included volunteering with her family on an olive tree farm, preparing a bbq dinner for soldiers (at which she did some of the cooking), and on her very last day Nili visited a hotel in Jerusalem that was housing a displaced community from Sderot. While Nili distributed the approximately 30 packages that she brought with her to the children she met, she felt saddened that she didn’t bring nearly enough for the number of kids that were now living in that hotel after having to flee their homes for safety. She came home from her trip and immediately went into action.

Nili created a flyer which she and her mom posted daily to their social media accounts, and she talked about her new mission to her friends and neighbors. Nili was able to raise over $700 from friends and family! Nili diligently sent thank you

messages to everyone who donated, while keeping precise accounts of her raisings.

She spent hours scouring Amazon for good deals, and she purchased enough toys and supplies to put together another 250 packages for displaced children in Israel. The packages included small toys like mini Rubik’s cubes, decks of cards, fidget toys, toy cars, and so much more.

She wrote up a message to put into the packages and, with the help of her grandparents and aunt who were visiting from Israel for a family wedding, was able to send her packages back to Israel to hopefully bring smiles and cheer to children there affected by the war.

Did you know?

The six official languages of the UN include: Chinese, English, Arabic, French, Russian, and Spanish.

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The Jewish Home | JANUARY 18, 2024

Voice N

tes

We Can’t Talk About Israel in an Echo Chamber

By Kylie Ora Lobell

S

ince October 7, I’ve gone to a number of pro-Israel gatherings. It’s comforting to be among other Jews and feel uplifted and inspired during such a dark time.

I know that when I attend these events, everyone has the same perspective as me.

We are all deeply hurt, concerned about antisemitism, and determined to unite and win this war. I sing along with “HaTikvah,” agree with every speech, and cheer when people yell, “Am Yisrael Chai!”

I also think: Are we in an echo chamber?

While these gatherings are so important, our Jewish and Israel advocacy must extend outside of our own circles. I learned this lesson when, in the aftermath of Oct. 7, my family members, who are not Jewish – I’m a convert – had a hard time understanding how scared I was. One family member told me that when she was working in a Jewish neighborhood during Rosh Hashanah, she couldn’t believe the amount of police presence that was there. “That’s the reality I deal with every day,” I told her. “Unfortunately, people hate us.”

Another family member asked me if I have any friends in Israel. “I do, but all 7 million people over there are my family members, too,” I told them.

As a convert, I understand the different mentalities people have. For

instance, when I went off to college, my Middle Eastern studies professor was anti-Israel, so I became anti-Israel, too – even though I previously knew nothing about Israel and Palestine.

He told our class that after the Holocaust, a bunch of Jewish lawyers went in and sneakily stole land from the Palestinians and that the Israelis were oppressing the Palestinians still. I trusted and believed him, since he was in a position

no stake in the conflict but learn about it through a professor or social media or a biased news source and think it’s the truth.

Here’s another example: Before I became Jewish, I went to Shabbat dinners at my local Chabad and Daniel’s family’s house. In those spaces, I learned the truth about Orthodox Judaism and saw just how beautiful it is. Previously, I’d only seen negative portrayals of Orthodox Jews in the media. Again, I realized that the institu-

We should have meaningful conversations with level-headed people who are willing to listen to our point of view.

of authority. I never thought that a professor could be biased or lie to me. I also never connected being anti-Israel to being antisemitic.

Later, when I started dating Daniel, who is now my husband, and I learned the truth about the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, I felt so betrayed by my professor. I also realized that there are so many people out there like me, people who have absolutely

tions I’d trusted had deceived me.

It’s not easy to come to this realization. You start questioning your belief system. You question your entire identity.

It’s a tough reckoning that requires you to squash your ego in pursuit of the truth. You might even have to admit that you were wrong – and people don’t have an easy time doing that. They’d rather keep on lying instead of doing necessary self-reflection.

That’s what we’re up against. And that’s why, at this time, it’s so important to build bridges with people who are not part of the Jewish community. We shouldn’t engage with radicals, but we should have meaningful conversations with level-headed people who are willing to listen to our point of view. This can be as simple as talking to people online and off, encouraging them to visit Israel, or inviting someone to a Shabbat dinner. Let others see the beauty of our religion, our culture, and our homeland for themselves and then decide. One thing is for sure: Creating human to human connections is what’s going to make a real difference.

I encourage you to keep going to pro-Israel rallies and events. I encourage you to meet up with your Jewish friends. But I also want you to think about the connections you can cultivate with others outside of our community. Extend your hand to them and welcome them in.

By uniting as a Jewish community, finding allies, and knowing that Hashem is here for us, we will prevail.

Kylie Ora Lobell is president of KOL Digital Marketing, a marketing and publicity firm for Jewish businesses, organizations, authors, and influencers. Email her at Kylie@ Koldigitalmarketing.com.

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JANUARY 18, 2024 | The Jewish Home

TJH

Centerfold

Whose Signature is it Anyway?

John Hancock Trivia

Match the following people with their signatures: Mark Zuckerberg

1.

Elon Musk J.K. Rowling

2.

Warren Buffett Donald Trump

3.

Vladimir Putin Tim Cook

4.

5.

1. What is John Hancock best known for? a. Inventor b. Patriot and President of the Continental Congress c. Explorer d. Scientist 2. At what age did John Hancock graduate from Harvard University? a. 17 b. 22 c. 45 d. 67 3. What important document did John Hancock famously sign? a. U.S. Constitution b. Declaration of Independence c. Emancipation Proclamation d. Bill of Rights

6.

7.

3. Donald Trump; 4. Mark Zuckerberg; Answers: 1. Vladimir Putin; 2. J.K. Rowling;

The Jewish Home | JANUARY 18, 2024

1. *

5. Tim Cook; 6. Elon Musk; 7. Warren Buffett

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4. Which state did John Hancock represent in the Continental Congress? a. New York b. Massachusetts c. Virginia d. Pennsylvania

5. Which famous phrase did John Hancock reportedly say while signing that important document (see question 3)? a. “Give me liberty or give me death!” b. “We hold these truths to be self-evident...” c. “There, I guess King George will be able to read that without his spectacles!” d. “E pluribus unum” Answers: 1-B 2-A 3-B 4-B 5-C Wisdom key: 4-5 correct: You are one of those guys that, when asking someone to sign a document, says, “Hey, let me get your John Hancock right here!”

2-3 correct: You didn’t graduate from Harvard at 17.

0-1 correct: Lightbulbs are going off in your head…

“Hmm, John Hancock Financial…so that’s how they got their name!”

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Graphology, which is the study of handwriting, is an imprecise science. When it comes to signatures, it is especially unreliable. However, there are some generally held beliefs about what certain aspects of signatures indicate about the signer’s personality. Can you match the signature types with the personality traits?

1. High capital letters

A. Self-esteem issues

2. Right slant of signature

B. Takes pride in accomplishments

3. Signature ends with upward line

C. Balanced

4. Signature that includes middle name and suffixes

D. Someone who adheres to social norms and what is expected of him.

5. Legible signature

E. Strong confidence and ambition.

6. High letters

F. Someone who is genuine

7. Underline under signature

G. Private person

8. Downward slope

H. strong self-reliance

9. No slant

I. Optimistic and ambition

10. Signature ends with period

J. Feels like the boss

11. Small letters

K. Cautious and pessimistic

12. Illegible signature

L. Extrovert who can be impulsive.

self-esteem, no drive, are lazy, boisterous, arrogant, below-average intelligence, and just a bad person altogether!

Remember, this is kind of like bogus science, so please don’t panic if your signature indicates that you have low Answers: 1. E; 2. L; 3. I; 4. D; 5. F; 6. B; 7. H; 8. K; 9. C; 10. J; 11. A; 12. G

You Gotta be Kidding Me! I have started a petition to ban people from collecting autographs.

So far, I’ve got 2,000 signatures!

JANUARY 18, 2024 | The Jewish Home

Match the Personality Trait with the Signature

The Jewish Home | JANUARY 18, 2024

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Torah Thought

Parshas Bo

By Rabbi Berel Wein

I

n this week’s parsha, the narrative of the Exodus from Egypt reaches one of its most climactic moments. Pharaoh finally succumbs to the pressures of the plagues and to the demands of Moshe and of the G-d of Israel. The last three plagues that are discussed in detail in this week’s parsha are those of the locusts, darkness, and the slaying of the firstborn. These plagues represent not only physical damages inflicted on the Egyptians but also, just as importantly, different psychological pressures that were exerted on Pharaoh and the Egyptians.

The plague of locusts destroyed the

Egyptian economy – or whatever was left of it after the previous seven plagues.

Economic disaster always has far-reaching consequences. Sometimes, those results can be very positive, such as the recovery of the United States from the Great Depression. Sometimes, they are very negative, as the rise of Nazism in Germany in the 1920s and 1930s could not have occurred if it were not for the economic crisis that enveloped the Weimar Republic.

Here, the economic crisis engendered by the plague of locusts brings Egypt to its knees, so that it is only the unreason-

ing stubbornness of Pharaoh that keeps the drama going.

The next plague of darkness is one that affects the individual. Cooped up in one’s home, unable to move about, blinded by darkness unmatched in human experience, the individual Egyptian is forced to come to terms with his or her participation in the enslavement of the Jewish people.

For many people, being alone with oneself is itself a type of plague. It causes one to realize one’s mortality and to reassess one’s behavior in life. This is

The plague that destroyed the Egyptian firstborn destroyed the hopes of eternity that were so central to Egyptian society. The tombs of the leaders of Egypt were always equipped with food and material goods to help these dead survive to the future. Even though this was a primitive expression of the hope for eternity, it nevertheless powerfully represents to us the Egyptian mindset regarding such eternity.

By destroying the firstborn Egyptians, the L-rd sounded the death knell for all of Egyptian society for the foreseeable

For many people, being alone with oneself is itself a type of plague.

not always a pleasant experience. Most of the time, it is a very wrenching and painful one.

The final plague of the death of the firstborn Egyptians, aside from the personal pain and tragedy involved, spoke to the future of Egyptian society. Without children, no society can endure – and especially children such as the firstborn, who are always meant to replace and carry on the work of their elders and previous generations. We all want to live in eternity, and since we cannot do so physically, we at least wish it to happen spiritually, emotionally and psychologically.

future. It was this psychological pressure – which is one of the interpretations of the phrase that there was no house in Egypt that did not suffer from this terrible plague – that forced Pharaoh and his people to come to terms with their unjust enslavement of Israel and to finally succumb to the demands of Moshe and the G-d of Israel.

We should remember that all of these psychological pressures, even though they do not appear in our society as physical plagues, are still present and influential. The trauma of life is never ending.

Shabbat shalom.

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JANUARY 18, 2024 | The Jewish Home

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From the Fire Parshas Bo

Double Darkness

By Rav Moshe Weinberger Adapted for publication by Binyomin Wolf

R

av Yehudah Eryeh Leib Alter, the Sfas Emes, teaches (Parshas Bo 5639), quoting the Zohar, that the Ten Plagues corresponded to and rectified the corruption of Hashem’s Oneness caused by each of the ten utterances with which Hashem concealed His Presence in the process of creating the world. Each of the plagues also corresponds to one of the Aseres HaDibros, the Ten Commandments. The first plague undid the corrup-

tion wrought by the most recent – the last – of the ten utterances. And each successive plague undid the corruption caused by the utterance before that, and then the next. Finally, the tenth plague, the killing of the firstborn, corrected the first utterance, “At the beginning of G-d’s creation of Heaven and Earth...”

I would like to focus on the plague of darkness and what we learn from it. Based on the Sfas Emes, we see that the plague

of darkness corresponds to the statement, “You shall have no other gods before Me” (Shemos 20:3) and the utterance, “And G-d said, ‘Let there be light’” (Bereishis 1:3).

The darkness with which Hashem punished the Egyptians revealed the absolute nothingness of everything other than G-d.

It revealed that there are no other gods, that “there is nothing other than G-d” (Devarim 4:35), and that “the entire earth is filled with His glory” (Yeshayahu 6:3).

What is the nature of the darkness with which Hashem smote Egypt? Rashi (on Shemos 10:21) quotes a Midrash which explains that the darkness was not simply an absence of light, similar to the darkness all of us experience at night. Rather, it was a tangible, created presence. The Maharal explains (Gevuros Hashem 57) that, with respect to the Egyptians, Hashem uprooted the creation of light that came into being with the pasuk, “And G-d said, ‘Let there be light.’”

The Maharal also explains that when the pasuk (Shemos 10:23), said, “But for all the children of Israel there was light in their dwellings,” it does not simply mean that regular light was not taken away from them. Rather, it means that Hashem revealed to the Jewish people the light He had hidden away during the days of Creation. When Hashem revealed His light to us in Egypt, it was just like during the Aseres HaDibros when, according to the Midrash (Shemos Rabah 29:9), He said, “I am Hashem your G-d” (ibid. 20:2) and the entire world became silent. All of the other apparent powers, noise, and confusion of the world disappear when G-d reveals His light.

I was thinking about the nature of

this light and about the darkness within mankind that sometimes conceals G-d’s Presence and confuses people because of the other powers that seem to exist in the world. The Midrash (Shemos Rabah 14:2) recounts a dispute regarding the nature of the plague of darkness. Rabi Yehuda maintains that the darkness was a “darkness from above” and Rav Nechemia believes that it was a “darkness of Gehinom.” There is a darkness from above and a darkness from below.

What is the darkness of Gehinom?

This means the darker impulses within a person that cause him to veer away from what he knows is right. These are the desires and instincts that stand between him and Hashem. The word for darkness, choshech, even means “withhold,” as in the pasuk (Bereishis 22:12), “You did not withhold, cheshkas, your only son from Me...” Such a person knows the truth. It is clear to him. But he feels that he lacks the strength to overcome his evil inclination and do what is right. He feels unable to choose a life of purpose over the momentary pleasures right in front of him.

The Gemara says about such darkness (Shabbos 31b), “The wicked know that their way of life leads to death, but they [are blocked to the truth].” This is the darkness from below. We see that there is a type of darkness within a person that can cause him to do what he knows is wrong even if he knows it will kill him, literally or metaphorically.

But there is something even more dangerous – the darkness from above. When a person is immersed in this type of darkness, he does not even have a clear baseline for what is right and wrong. He does not

die.” But it did not take long for that clarity to become fuzzy. Chava told the snake that G-d said (ibid. 3:3), “You shall not eat from it...lest you die.” Not eating from the tree went from absolute death to possible death. At that point, it did not take long for the snake to convince Chava that even if she eats from the fruit, “you will not

word [Pharaoh] and its composition.” He does not, however, explain how the word Pharaoh demonstrates that he is the embodiment of the evil inclination.

Perhaps we can see how the word Pharaoh hints at both manifestations of the evil inclination, both types of darkness.

One meaning of the word is used in the

All of the other apparent powers, noise, and confusion of the world disappear when G-d reveals His light.

die” (ibid. 4). When one is lost without any knowledge of the truth, there is no longer anything to talk about. He cannot even begin to attempt to do the right thing if he doesn’t know what it is.

Pharaoh personified both the darkness from above and the darkness from Gehinom. The Rambam says in his letter to his son Rabbi Avraham, known as the Iggeres HaMussar, that Pharaoh is the embodiment of the evil inclination and concludes, “you will understand this through the

pasuk regarding the Jewish people’s commission of the sin of the Golden Calf. It says (Shemos 32:25), “And Moshe saw that the people were in a state of disorder, perah...” This is the darkness of Gehinom, a state of disorder in which it seems so difficult to do what is right.

The Arizal says that the word Pharaoh contains the same letters as the word ha’oref, the back of the neck. When a person speaks face to face with someone, he can attempt to convince him of the error of

his ways. But if the other person turns his back, then there is no more dialogue. The conversation is over. There is no one to talk to. That is the darkness from above.

Pharaoh embodied both of these forms of darkness. He said (Shemos 5:2), “Who is G-d that I should listen to his voice?” demonstrating that he recognized G-d but did not want to listen to Him. That is the darkness from below. But in the end, Hashem hardened his heart such that the light of his intelligence no longer had any influence in his life. There was no longer anyone to talk to. He was then filled with the darkness from above.

If a person asks for Hashem’s help to do what he knows is right and davens that he not become confused about the truth, then he can access the light of Creation in his life. He will not live in the sadness of a mind and way of being that is shrouded in darkness.

May Hashem show us clarity and give us the strength to remove all blockages and grow closer to Him.

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.

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even begin struggling with his evil inclination because he lacks any moral framework to begin with. Normally, when a person has a clear and healthy intellect, this faculty becomes a window through which he can see G-d. As the Rambam (Moreh Nevuchim 2:12) says, quoting the pasuk (Tehillim 36:10), “For with you is the source of life, through Your light we see light,” “Through the light of the intellect, a person can see the light of G-d.”

When a person is shrouded in the darkness from above, he cannot see the truth of Hashem’s light. And the vacuum created by that moral confusion will ultimately cause a person to create some perverted version of morality that brings far more darkness into the world than the mere lack of discipline inherent in the darkness of Gehinom. It is like Ronald Reagan said about his political opponents, “It’s not so much that they are ignorant. They just know so much that isn’t so.”

We see this regression from clarity personified by the story of how Chava came to eat from the Tree of Knowledge of Good and Bad. There was no question about what was right and wrong from the beginning. Hashem clearly said (Bereishis 2:17), “You shall not eat from it, for on the day that you eat from it, you will surely

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Think. Feel.Grow.

The Five Spiritual Stages of the Creative Process

By Rabbi Shmuel Reichman

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here was very little communication thus far, and no one knew why they were meeting in an abandoned junkyard.

A group of data analysts had received a strange message from their boss. It simply said to show up at a certain spot the next day at 11:00 a.m., no details or explanation included.

When the workers arrived, they saw… nothing; just a huge heap of garbage. And standing in front of it all, a huge smiled pasted on his face, was their boss. “Good morning everyone, and thank you so much for coming!” the boss called out to his employees. “At this time, I would like everyone to spend ten minutes walking around the landscape. Get a feel for the area, but whatever you do, don’t touch a thing.”

Even more confused now, the data analysts began walking around the piles of junk. What a thrilling tour it was.

Heaps of cans, clothing, and all sorts of clutter were haphazardly strewn across the ground. There were a few clearings

amongst the garbage, and the employees gravitated toward these areas to get away from the mess. After what seemed like an eternity, the boss called everyone to one of the clearings. The employees were surprised to see a helicopter waiting for them. A little confused, but happy to leave the garbage behind, they all climbed in, muttering to each other underneath their breath.

As the helicopter took off, the boss began speaking. “You are all data analysts. You spend your days preparing charts, making projections, and typing reports. It’s often easy to feel lost in this work, to lose sight of what you are achieving with all of your effort.”

The employees nodded, still confused as to why they had to go through all of this just to hear this message. At this point, the boss told them to look down from the helicopter windows toward the landscape below.

Below them was a masterfully designed miniature replica of their city,

made out of the very garbage they had just walked through.

“We take that which is meaningless, and we turn it into a meaningful masterpiece. I wanted you to experience firsthand the power of what you do on a daily basis.”

Creating Order out of Chaos The human mind possesses the powerful ability to create order and meaning from disorder and chaos. We find patterns in scattered texts, correlations in scrambled data, and harmony in individually meaningless pieces of information. Applying this ability to spiritual wisdom allows one to enter the gateway into the infinite, gaining access to the deepest and most powerful truths of existence.

Let us take a step back and examine the division and organization of the Chumash itself. Why is the Torah split into five separate books, instead of joined together as one complete sefer? And if the Torah does, in fact, require organization, why

specifically divide it into five parts? In order to understand the answer to these questions, let us study a fundamental concept related to order, one which will shed light on all the books of the Torah.

The Five Stages The Vilna Gaon explains, in the name of the Arizal, that everything in the universe is comprised of five stages or parts. The Torah reflects this essential spiritual pattern and is therefore made up of five unique books. In order to understand the uniqueness of each sefer in the Torah, we must understand this five-stage pattern. To do so, let us analyze the process of transforming thought into speech and action.

The initial stage of every thought is a flash of inspiration, the instant when an idea enters the mind but remains ethereal, undefined, and still somewhat elusive.

This initial point of thought is referred to as ratzon and reflects the conception and root of all thoughts, ideas, and concepts.

and the outside world.

The fifth stage is the final, expressed form of that original flash of inspiration, now a fully expressed entity in the physical world. It is the manifestation of spiritual potential, the endpoint of the creative process. The initial flash of inspiration

expressed into the external world, where the theoretical is converted to the actual.

This is the stage where most of the work occurs, where struggle arises, and where it is easiest to give up. It is at this stage that you must remind yourself of the original goal, the dream, the initial flash of inspi-

understand it on an ever more profound level, showing how the structure and layout of the Chumash is in accordance with this five-step template.

Rabbi Shmuel Reichman is the author of the bestselling book, “The Journey to Your Ultimate Self,” which serves as an inspiring gateway into deeper Jewish thought. He is an

What was once only an idea, a dream within your mind, is now an existing reality.

educator and speaker who has lectured internationally on topics of Torah thought, Jewish medical ethics, psychology, and leadership. He is also the founder and CEO of Self-Mastery Academy, the transformative online self-development course based on the principles of high-performance psychology and Torah.

has now taken on shape, expressed as the words themselves, the written text, the completed action.

Building a House If you were to build a house from scratch, a creative project, you would go through these same five steps. First, you would need to create a general architectural design for the structure and layout of the house, an overarching theme. After spending a few days struggling to come up with an idea, you suddenly have a flash of inspiration. You’ve got it; you know exactly what you want to build. But strangely enough, you still don’t have any way of formulating this idea to your employees or even to yourself. You simultaneously have the idea and don’t have it – a paradox.

But moments later, you begin to gain clarity and are now able to formulate this inspiration as a general idea. You begin to conceptualize the shape of the house, the overall design, the basic theme. The details have not yet emerged, but the overall structure is in place and the direction is clear. You know the style of the house, the size, how many rooms it will have, and the conceptual layout.

Then comes the arduous task of developing meticulously detailed plans for each aspect of the house: what style doors for each room, what type of furniture to buy, what kind of kitchen to install. You figure out which tools you need for the job and how long it will take to complete it. This is where the general idea becomes detailed and finetuned, where the creative mind becomes narrowly focused, and where the big ideas are fragmented into smaller, measurable goals.

Next is the transition from mind to body, from ideas to action: Workers are hired, tasks are assigned, and construction ensues. This is the physically creative process, where the internal idea becomes

ration. And if you keep pushing and follow through on your commitments, after what may seem like an eternity, the work will finally be done.

What was once only an idea, a dream within your mind, is now an existing reality in the physical world. You remember looking at an empty plot, and now, you are looking at a fully built house. The creative process is complete; the fifth stage is now fully experienced.

In our next article, we will delve deeper into this fascinating topic and try to

After obtaining his BA from Yeshiva University, he received Semicha from Yeshiva University’s RIETS, a master’s degree in education from Azrieli Graduate School, and a master’s degree in Jewish Thought from Bernard Revel Graduate School. He then spent a year studying at Harvard as an Ivy Plus Scholar. He currently lives in Chicago with his wife and son where he is pursuing a PhD at the University of Chicago.

To invite Rabbi Reichman to speak in your community or to enjoy more of his deep and inspiring content, visit his website: ShmuelReichman.com.

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For example, if one is struggling to solve a problem, they may be lying down in bed when they suddenly experience a flash of inspiration, and the solution just drops into their consciousness. However, at this initial stage, while they may know that they have the solution, they still can’t fully grasp what it is; it’s there, but they can’t put their finger on it. Only after this initial moment does the idea begin to develop into a more concrete and expressed idea within their mind.

This is the second stage of the creative process, where the flash of inspiration becomes more expressed and further defined as a general idea or concept. At this stage, while the idea is tangible, it is still general and not fully defined, creating a klal – a framework or category. This stage of thought is referred to as machshavah or chochmah, reflecting general thought, ideas, and concepts.

In the third stage, the general idea of the second stage begins to take on detail, becoming a full-fledged, defined thought process. The simple idea increases in sophistication and complexity, the klal begins to reveal its pratim, and general thought begins weaving and intertwining in unique and creative detailed pathways.

At this stage, the general idea is broken down, analyzed, and understood.

While the second stage is the general solution to the problem, the third stage is the detailed formula for solving the problem. This is referred to as hirhur (detailed thought), and it reflects binah (understanding), detailed intellectual understanding of the general principles of machshavah. In this stage, you can actually picture the ideas in your head, as the abstract wisdom becomes expressed in the form of detailed understanding within your imagination. This is also why the root of the word “imagination” is image; at this stage, you can picture ideas in fully developed images rather than abstract ideas.

This is why thoughts of sin are called hirhurei aveirah, from the word “hirhur,” because sinful thoughts generally take the form of physically enticing images, rather than conceptual, abstract ideas.

The fourth stage is where the concrete thoughts within your mind become expressed outwards into the physical world.

This is embodied in the process of speech, whereby one takes the detailed ideas from within one’s mind and shares them with others. Speaking, writing, and other physical expressions of one’s inner thoughts are all forms of this fourth stage, which is referred to as dibur (speech). This fourth stage reflects the concept of process and the connection between one’s inner world

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Delving into the Daf

A Time for Torah

By Rabbi Avrohom Sebrow

H

illel says, “He who seeks a name loses it. He who does not increase decreases” (Pirkei Avos 1:13). The first half of Hillel’s statement is easily explained by a well-known dictum in Eiruvin, “Whoever runs after glory, glory runs away from him.” But what is the meaning behind the cryptic second half of Hillel’s statement?

The commentators offer various explanations. In earlier times, labor was typically confined to the daytime. When the nights started to become longer around Tu B’Av, laborers had more free time. Since sunset was earlier, workers got off earlier. Rashi says that is the meaning behind Hillel’s words. Anyone who doesn’t increase his Torah study after Tu B’Av will physically decrease. He will suffer as a result.

The Minchas Elazar (Divrei Torah Vol 8, 31) rallies the reader to not merely learn Torah superficially but to use all his cognitive skills in understanding Torah. The Navi (Yehoshua 5:13–14), as explained by the Gemara in Megillah (3a), tells us of a meeting between Yehoshua and an angel.

An angel confronted Yehoshua: “Yesterday, you neglected to bring the afternoon korban tamid, and tonight, you have neglected the study of Torah.” Yehoshua asked him, “For which sin did you specifically come to rebuke me?” The angel answered, “I came now.” The angel was telling him that the primary purpose of his mission was to rebuke Yehoshua and the people for the sin they were committing at that time: failing to study today.

Rashi explains that during the day, Yehoshua and the nation were involved in a mitzvah and could not learn Torah. They were conquering Eretz Yisrael. However, since there was a cease in hostilities during the night, Bnei Yisrael should have taken the opportunity to learn Torah then. Yehoshua took the rebuke to heart, and that night he delved into deep Torah thought.

The rebuke is mindboggling. The weary nation had arrows and boulders aimed at them during the day. Every man knew his life was on the line. The intensity of the war

sapped the strength of the soldiers. They needed and deserved rest for their tired bodies at night. Yet Hashem sent an angel to rebuke them and tell them to find time for Torah study. Moreover, we see from Yehoshua’s reaction that Hashem didn’t merely want the people to open a sefer and enjoy some relaxed learning. Hashem expected

describes these sages as “mighty warriors, experienced in war.”

Seder Olam wonders how it is appropriate to label the exiles being led in chains as warriors. They were in captivity, in chains!

The beraisa in Seder Olam concludes that it must be referring to “mighty warriors in the give-and-take of Torah learning.”

Even at the saddest, most degrading, and worst part of their lives, they didn’t forsake their deep commitment to Torah learning.

them to learn deep secrets of Torah that require immense concentration.

This last point is further bolstered by a beraisa from Seder Olam quoted by Rashi in Sukkah (44a). Rebbe Yochanan expressed amazement at the level of Torah scholarship achieved in Bavel. He was hitherto under the impression that the scholars in Eretz Yisrael were superior.

Rebbe Yochanan explained that the Torah scholarship in Bavel must be due to the sages who were included in the first group of Jews to be led in chains to Bavel. The verse

The Minchas Elazar asks, how did the beraisa answer its question? Was there any learning accomplished while they were being led in chains? How is appropriate to call them Torah warriors? It must be that in fact they were learning even while in chains.

Not just superficial discussions; they engaged in animated debate about the finer points of Torah. The description was appropriate because even at the saddest, most degrading, and worst part of their lives, they didn’t forsake their deep commitment to Torah learning.

There is a daf we learned this week in Bava Kamma that is terrific for daf yomi learners, but scary for yeshiva students.

Daf 77a in Bava Kamma only has two lines of Gemara. What a great opportunity for daf yomi groups to catch up if they had fallen behind. Yet it is scary for yeshiva students, because the rest of the page is composed of two huge Tosfos commentaries.

The Minchas Elazar says he has a tradition from the Bnei Yissaschar that those long Tosfos comments were composed by the Baalei Tosfos the night before they were to be executed. They were given the choice of conversion or death. The Baalei Tosfos chose the latter. They spent their last night on this earth composing those two long comments. Rabbi David Feder of West Hempstead points out that towards the end of the second Tosfos it is written, “V’ein l’ha’arich kan yoser,” usually understood to mean it is not fitting to spend more time on this point. Perhaps the Baalei Tosfos were hinting that they didn’t have any time left to write more. (Rav Ephraim Urbach has shown quite convincingly that our Tosfos in Bava Kama are Tosafot Tuch (German, from Tuchheim, not French from Touques) based on Tosfos of R’ Yehudah Sir Leon. We know that R’ Yehudah Sir Leon’s son was killed al kiddush Hashem.)

Hashem demanded of the weary soldiers in the times of Yehoshua that they spend their free time at night learning deep points of Torah. The oppressed sages being led to exile in chains used that horrific time to engage in spirited Torah debate.

The Baalei Tosfos used their frightening last night in this world to compose complex Torah thoughts. Says the Minchas Elazar, what can we answer? What will be our excuse for not using our free time for intense Torah study?

Rabbi Avrohom Sebrow is a rebbe at Yeshiva Ateres Shimon in Far Rockaway. In addition, Rabbi Sebrow leads a daf yomi chaburah at Eitz Chayim of Dogwood Park in West Hempstead, NY. He can be contacted at ASebrow@gmail.com.

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Tu B’Shvat A Lesson in Wealth

By Rabbi Benny Berlin

D

uring my childhood, Tu B’Shvat was marked by the distribution of exotic fruits in school, where we would engage in playful contests such as who could crack carobs with their teeth. It was about the simple joy of giving money to plant trees in Israel and enjoying time off from class for a Tu B’Shvat seder.

Over the years, my understanding of Tu B’Shvat evolved, especially when I encountered Rav Moshe Feinstein zt”l’s explanation. But first, some background: The halachic importance of this day is intricately linked to the agricultural laws of tithing. One may not take terumos and maaseros from the produce of one year to cover the produce of another year. If one did take terumah or maaser in such a manner, one’s action is irrelevant, and one must take terumah and maaser again properly. For fruit trees, the year begins on Tu B’Shvat, the Rosh Hashanah for the iIlanos. If I have a tree that produces a thousand fruits, and I give 100 fruits as maaseros, the next year, if the tree produces more fruit – let’s say 1,200 – I would give 120 fruits as maaseros. I cannot decide to wait and eat all the fruit of the first year for myself and the second year give 220 at one time to the Levi. Tu B’Shvat demarcates these agricultural years, reminding us that we cannot use one year’s produce as a tithe for another but also teaching us a lesson on wealth globally.

Tu B’Shvat reminds us to take a pause and remember Who everything belongs to, whether it be our dates and figs or our dollars and cents. Since the fruits – and by extension, our wealth – essentially belong to Hashem, we are merely stewards with distribution rights. I cannot decide to wait until next year to give tithes because it is not mine to decide. By giving maaser, we

acknowledge this divine ownership and only then can we rightfully enjoy the remainder.

Another pivotal concept linked with Tu B’Shvat is the mitzvah of orlah. In the first three years, fruits from a new tree are forbidden for personal benefit, underscoring the idea that not all that we possess is for our use. Even in the fourth year (netai revai), the fruits are to be enjoyed in Yerushalyim, under specific conditions, further inculcating the values of mindful consumption.

The spirit of these lessons is as relevant as ever, even if we never owned a fruit tree in our lives. Our society’s obsession with wealth has created a society where people have forgotten that their work is a means to an end to afford their needs so they can focus their other time on building a meaningful life rather than a race to see who can amass the most amount of little green pieces of paper. There is so much worry and hyperfocus on wealth in our society. According to a survey conducted

by UCLA in 1965, respondents shared what motivated them to attend a higher

education institution, and 82% shared that they were there to develop a meaningful philosophy on life and answer the often-pondered question of what is worth seeking in this world. Interestingly, when UCLA conducted a similar survey in 1998, it showed a terrifying and heartwrenching trend indicating a direct reversal of priorities. The survey in 1998 found that only 35% of respondents were looking for meaning and purpose, while the vast majority were looking to obtain that education to secure higher paying jobs so they could be better off financially.

Rabbi Elazar in Brachos 61a asks: if the Torah tells me I have to sacrifice my very life for Hashem – bechol nafshecha – to serve Hashem, does the Torah have to tell me about bechol meodecha – all my possessions? The Gemara answers shockingly that just because a person would give up his life for G-d does not mean he would give up his money.

As a modern-day example, the East Coast earthquake in August 2011 caused vibrations in New York City. CNN dispatched reporters to various locations,

including the New York Stock Exchange, where business correspondent Alison Kosik reported that traders felt the shaking and shouted at each other to “keep trading!” Is the drive for money so powerful that it takes priority over protecting life?

We see this on a smaller scale in our own society when we put our jobs over our personal lives. Do we give up a client or a business deal because it will take up the precious moments we can spend with a spouse or our kids when we get home from work? Do we pursue more and more money and clients even when we have enough to take care of our needs, often at the expense of quality time with those we love?

It is in this way that Tu B’Shvat becomes a microcosm of a larger, vital Jewish teaching – the acknowledgment that all wealth is Hashem’s and we are entrusted with the responsibility to use it wisely in pursuit of meaning and purpose. This philosophy not only includes covering our basic needs and experiencing simchas hachaim but also extends to how we distribute wealth through tzedakah. The true joy of Tu B’Shvat, as Rav Moshe Feinstein, zt”l, elucidates, lies in embracing this righteous approach to wealth, inspiring us to fulfill our obligations with a joyful heart and focusing on what is most important.

May we all merit to celebrate Tu B’Shvat properly this year, internalizing its messages into our lives, and perhaps even enjoying some carob in the process.

Rabbi Benny Berlin is the rabbi of BACH Jewish Center located in Long Beach, New York. For more information, visit: https:// www.bachlongbeach.com/.

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Headlines

Halacha

Bnei Torah Who Work – A New Hashkafic Emphasis

By Rabbi Yair Hoffman Delivered by Rav Moshe Hillel Hirsch, Rosh Yeshiva of Slabodka in Bnei Brak

Recently, in light of the economic situation brought about by the Gaza War, the Rosh Yeshiva delivered a speech at an asifa in Binyanei HaUma, a new emphasis on an important point of hashkafa. What follows is a summation of his words

P

rior to Matan Torah, Hashem told Moshe Rabbeinu to convey to Klal Yisroel (Shemos 19:5), “And now, if you obey Me and keep My covenant, you shall be to Me a treasure out of all peoples, for Mine is the entire earth.”

Chazal, in Mechilta D’Rabi Yishmael (Parshas Yisro) interpret the phrase “v’hiyisem li, you shall be to Me” to mean that the bnei Yisroel should be entirely devoted to Hashem and engage solely in Torah study, and not in other matters.

Based upon this, Harav Aharon Kotler, zt”l, said that the ideal situation is

for all of klal Yisroel to study Torah all their lives and not be involved in anything else but Torah study. However, this is not attainable, since people need to earn a living and engage in worldly matters in order to sustain themselves.

However, in order to ensure the survival of klal Yisroel, it is essential that at least a significant part of them be engaged in Torah study with no other concerns.

In Eretz Yisroel, for the past century, it was known that her Bnei Torah were engaged in Torah study for their entire lives. Even though there were also some kollelim and yeshivos abroad, when people came to Eretz Yisroel, they knew that the primary goal was to study Torah all their lives without being involved in other matters.

However, in the past twenty years, it has become clear that it is no longer possible for all avreichim to learn for their entire lives even in Eretz Yisroel,

as Harav Aharon Kotler, zt”l, mentioned regarding the general population of klal Yisroel. Obviously, there are those who need to be involved in other aspects to earn a living, etc.

Initially, there was no special focus on these individuals, and many fell between the cracks. However, today, this matter has expanded, and although baruch Hashem the great majority of the Bnei Torah population remain within the category of “v’hiyisem li segulah,” there are those who also work and are unable to engage solely in Torah study for their entire lives.

It is imperative, however, that our attitude toward them should not be that they are balei batim who merely have a connection to the Torah, rather, our attitude must be the exact opposite: They are bnei Torah who had to engage in earning a living.

This is both how they must view themselves, and this is how they must

be viewed by all bnei Torah.

This is not merely a turn of phrase or a characterization in semantics or language. They are truly bnei Torah and that must be seen and expressed in three ways: •• In thought: Understanding and knowing that these bnei Torah wish they could study Torah all their lives and what other activates they engage in besides Torah study is only a necessity because they have no choice.

•• In the observance of halacha: The observance of halacha at home and at work should be exactly like a full-time ben Torah, including all other matters such as tefillah, tznius, and other halachic issues. Regarding material matters, those who work for their livelihood can elevate their conditions according to their means above the simplicity that

had to become involved in other things. However, when they are learning, they need to learn with a full depth of understanding according to their particular talents.

I know avreichim talmidei chachamim in America who work for their livelihood. When they return from their jobs at 4 or 5 PM, they go directly to the beis medrash for second seder.

cites Rabbeinu Yonah in a letter who states, “People who neglect their work and go home when they are idle or occupy themselves with trivial matters, their iniquity is great, and their sin is severe, as they belittle the Torah. If only they understood that there is no end to the reward for Torah study, they would surely return to the beis medrash!”

This fundamental point must be remembered – even those who work for

They are bnei Torah who had to engage in earning a living.

I also know an individual who even published a sefer; he studies complex topics and publishes seforim. In America today, this has become widespread, with some following a simple daily daf Gemara and others delving more b’iyun, resembling the bnei Torah in yeshivas.

In conclusion, the Chofetz Chaim

their livelihood remain bnei Torah.

They are workers yet are still bnei Torah in all aspects. Therefore, bnei Torah who work should be collectively included in the category of avreichim and not as simple balei batim.

Each and every one should study according to his own particular ability.

Various inclusive frameworks should be

established within the kollelim. They should include those who study more analytically, as well as those who study in great depth and those who focus on halacha and similar subjects.

By achieving this, we will be mekadesh shem Shamayim, those who work for their livelihood will not depart from the category of “bnei Torah.” May the Ribono Shel Olam grant strength to these bnei Torah to achieve the maximum that they can as true bnei Torah in all the aforementioned aspects. May Hashem grant them the special strength needed to face the challenges that come from their involvement in work and succeed in both areas. Amen!

Please note: The Rosh Yeshiva, shlita, will be in the United States for the dinner on January 28 at the Marriot. For more information, email Slabodka@ gmail.com. Rav Yeruchem Olshin, shlita, will be the guest speaker.

This article should be viewed as a halachic discussion and not practical advice. The author can be reached at yairhoffman2@ gmail.com.

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avreichim. There is no reason for any difference between them.

•• Limud haTorah: Even those who work for their livelihood need to set aside specific times for Torah. The Chofetz Chayim, zt”l, writes extensively on the matter of kevias itim and of the importance of establishing regular study times for Torah study for each individual.

Kovaya Itim for Torah study has three aspects to it: •• Kvias Itim means studying each and every day on a regular basis.

There is no day that can go by devoid of Torah study.

•• Kvias Itim means setting aside a specific amount of time, an hour or two each night, as many hours as one can.

•• Kvias Itim also means that they should not think that, since they are not avreichim, they do not need to delve deeply and understand what they are studying on a very deep level. They may erroneously think that they should learn quickly with little understanding; this is actually incorrect. They are bnei Torah who

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Secrets of a Connected Marriage TJH Speaks with Author RebbeTzin Debbie GReenblATT about Her new book

Rebbetzin, you recently came out with a new book, Secrets of a Connected Marriage. Why did you decide to write a book?

I never thought of myself as a writer. I started writing years ago because I was asked. Actually, in the first year of your paper, I contributed a piece on the parsha every other issue. This project wasn’t so much about writing, as it was about finding a means to convey concepts that I have learned over many years of delving into Torah sources and teaching about relationships from a Torah perspective. I saw that many ideas that are fundamental to a successful, satisfying and close relationship are not well known. If there are teachings that could potentially help people in this important and fraught area, that hold within them the key to a more satisfying and connected marriage, I realized a book might be a good way to transmit some of that understanding.

How long did it take you to write the book?

Many of the chapters started out as a column in one of the Jewish magazines. I have been contributing to the column for many years, and each piece that I wrote was cultivated over years of teaching. Then I rewrote each published piece, added to it, added a section at the end of each chapter called “Try this at Home” to make the ideas practical, and added some additional chapters to round out the picture. In other words, this was an endeavor of years.

That’s a long time. Did you enjoy the process as you were working on it?

Writing is very different than teaching or public speaking. In teaching, you can rely on your personality, a joke, and the rapport with your audience to convey your message. You can go back and clarify something you’ve said; you can adjust what you choose to say according to the mood in the room.

Writing takes place in more of a vacuum. You don’t get any feedback in real time. Your thinking needs to be clear, so that what you want to convey will be understood. You write something, come back and read it the next day, and it doesn’t make as much sense as you thought when you wrote it. So, you do it again.

The process definitely stretched me, both in terms of thinking and articulation. I guess I must have enjoyed it, as I am already thinking about the next book.

There are plenty of self-help books about marriage out there.

Do we need another one?

I can’t answer that because this isn’t a self -help book. It’s a self-growth guide.

You are right. There are tons of self-help books around, and some are probably useful. This is not that. What I wanted to do was to go deeper, to create a picture that would help you think about marriage in a different way. It’s important to help partners rise above the day-to-day quagmire of he said, she said, did or didn’t do, and help them see a bigger picture,

“What I wanted to do was to go deeper, to create a picture

that would help you think about marriage in a different way.” a picture with Hashem at the center, in which every choice we make in our closest relationships moves us closer or further from our intended destination in this journey we call life. We don’t usually think of our choices within marriage as good or bad, yet there is a component of that. All that fosters closeness and intimacy is good; that which encourages distance or divisiveness is bad.

Sounds heavy.

I don’t think of it as heavy; rather, I think it is important. In fact, even though there are some deeper Torah ideas, I did not want the book to be cumbersome. There are lots of stories, anecdotes, and real-life examples.

There are a lot of integral topics and concepts in Secrets of a Connected Marriage. What did you want people to get out of reading your book?

I would say that the goal is to clarify and motivate us to invest in our marriages in the right way. I hope people will be able to see new potential for real closeness in their marriage, which will in turn lead to greater joy. From that place, we can build healthy homes and a healthy next generation. I would like people to be able to visualize a bigger picture, one that elevates them and the plane on which their relationship plays out.

The Jewish people are involved in an existential war. Why is a book on marriage even important at this time?

All our wars are spiritual. This war is clearly so.

Our very existence is a threat to our enemies, and they could not be clearer about their intentions. Our response has always been a spiritual one. Even when we have to fight, because there is no choice, we understand that our real strength is internal, coming from our connection to Hashem. Marriage is the real-life metaphor for that connection. Every way we have to grow and develop to be a good marriage partner is the same way we have to grow to be in a real relationship with Hashem. It has never been more important for us to strengthen from within, so that Hashem will grant us victory and redemption.

Secrets of a Connected Marriage can be purchased in bookstores, on deardebbie.com, or picked up locally (at a discount) from Mrs. Tova Miller, 718-471-9397.

,Secrets of a Connected Marriage, Chapter 6 the (IM)perfeCt UnIon

W

hether we marry at twenty or at forty, we dream about the deep, satisfying connection we will have with our spouse. We will feel loved and taken care of.

Together, we will be more than the sum of the parts; as a stalwart team, we’ll conquer life’s challenges. We won’t feel lonely anymore, and the security we feel will give us the confidence to achieve what we couldn’t do alone.

If you find your spirits sagging as you read this description, knowing that your marriage is nothing like this, don’t feel too bad. This idyllic description describes only some marriages, some of the time, after many years of hard work.

Why do our dreams not coincide with reality? We yearn for a deep, meaningful connection, so why does it elude us?

What we are yearning for is called by our Sages “menuchah.” This can be defined as a feeling of inner peace and comfort, when things are in their place and connected to their source. In Megillas Rus (1:9), Naomi blessed her daughters-in-law that they marry and find the satisfying relationship a woman can have in marriage, where she has her place and that place feels like a connection to her essence: “And you will find comfort (menuchah), each woman in her husband’s home.”

As we know, the first woman was created from the side of Adam. Hashem brought her back to Adam and they reconnected as husband and wife. In an ideal state, every woman can find peace and inner serenity with her husband. In the same vein, he finds menuchah with her.

As desirous as this situation may be, the menuchah we find is an imperfect one. Our Sages compare the male to the soul and the female to the body. Just as it’s possible for body and soul to find congruence in this world, their connection is always an uneasy one; so too, a husband and wife can attain considerable harmony, yet it’s imperfect harmony. Some of the tension we feel as human beings arises from the fact that the body and soul are united only for a time. Eventually, the body will return to the ground from which it came, and the soul will return to its source in the higher realms. A union whose end is in sight is incomplete.

Following that concept, the reality is that every marriage will end, and that lack of permanence creates a lack of complete connection. This infringes on the totality of the menuchah.

We can find a metaphor for the menuchah of marriage in the menuchah of Shabbos. Menuchah is mentioned no less than five times in the Minchah prayer of Shabbos afternoon. A non-Jewish philosopher, Augustine of Hippo, once said, “In this world, when the body mourns, the soul rejoices; and when the soul rejoices, the body mourns.” This observation is only valid in a world without Shabbos.

Shabbos comes to resolve the lack of harmony between body and soul. As Rabbi Mordechai Becher points out, on Shabbos, we ease the tension between ourselves

and the physical world, between the physical realm and the spiritual. During the week, you go for a walk, admire a flower, and then pluck it. Good for you, bad for the flower. On Shabbos, you admire the flower as you stroll by, appreciating its beauty, but you leave it intact. Good for you, good for the flower. On Shabbos, you eat good food, enjoy fine wine and company, and the eating is elevated to a spiritual plane, creating harmony between the physical yearnings of the body and the spiritual longings of the soul.

Yet, as much as we value Shabbos and don’t want to live without it, it’s not a perfect pleasure. You may prepare a wonderful meal, only to have your husband fall asleep at the table. You may invite guests, and then be embarrassed when your children choose that moment to act up. You may crave a Shabbos nap, only to have dear friends choose that time to drop by. At the end of Shabbos, we are often left feeling that we did not attain menuchah on our day of rest and wonder how we can do it better next week.

The imperfect union of husband and wife mimics this phenomenon. We wouldn’t give it up, but we wonder how to do it better. The first step is accepting that we can’t make the connection perfect.

• • • Many years ago, when my children were small and rambunctious, I attended a lecture by Rebbetzin Tziporah Heller (Gottleib). I cannot recall what the lecture was about, but I do remember the room and the chair I was sitting in when a woman asked, “What do you do about sibling rivalry?”

The Rebbetzin was quiet for a bit and then answered, “I’m really sorry, but I can’t help you. My kids don’t fight.” I wanted the floor to open beneath me, to bury me and the sense of failure I felt at that moment. My kids fought often; clearly, I had missed some crucial things.

Afterwards, a friend of mine who had spent much time in the Rebbetzin’s home helped me out.

“Her kids are like everyone else’s, and they’re very active,” she explained.

“It’s just that she doesn’t define the regular, and sometimes contentious, behavior that takes place between normal children as fighting.”

Whew! I was saved from humiliation!

• • • Similarly, when it comes to marriage, we need to let go of idyllic notions and realize that imperfect is perfectly good, and it’s the best that we can achieve in this world. Instead of perfection, what we want to work on is percentages. As we develop and become the people we need to be, we want to increase the depth of the connection and the percentage of time that we feel connected — re-

alizing that the times when our bond is weaker are part of the natural ebb and flow of a relationship.

Try This at Home While you are sometimes harried on Shabbos, you still wouldn’t give it up, for even on an imperfect Shabbos, you still catch moments of serenity — moments when you feel the synchronization of body and soul, where the inner light of Shabbos peeks through the less-than-perfect setting of your home. To me, there are moments of sublime quiet in the storm of life, a moment in which I feel peaceful, at one with myself and with the world. Since we are unique individuals, you may experience the best moments of Shabbos differently.

Try to notice those Shabbos moments and bring them forward in your awareness. Once noted, you are more likely to hold onto the experience, to let it wash over you, adding some menuchah to the coming week.

Similarly, in your less-than-perfect relationship, you need to notice moments of harmony. Know that they are real, an oasis from the inevitable tensions that arise even in the best of marriages. In those moments, work to keep at bay the negative thoughts that inevitably surface, so as not to taint that moment.

Allow your awareness of the positive experiences to create a patina on the picture of your relationship in your mind. It will enable you to have more menuchah, even in the imperfect union with which you are blessed.

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World

Builders

Displaced as a Result of the Fighting in Northern Israel, Volunteer Emt Continues to Help the Community

By Raphael Poch

L

iving in a hotel near Tzfat amidst the upheaval caused by the Hamas atrocities, Vicky Tiferet, Hula Valley branch head of United Hatzalah, is grappling with the harsh realities of evacuation.

“Living in a hotel is tough, let me tell you,” Vicky reflected, weariness evident.

She’s not just another relocated resident; she’s a crucial part of the emergency team in Moshav Yuval, just 200 meters from the Lebanese border. On October 16, she was sent to a hotel in Tiberias to manage the wellbeing of displaced residents after the government evacuated all towns within the 0-2 km perimeter from the northern border. A few weeks later, all displaced Yuval residents were relocated to another hotel near Tzfat.

“Before the evacuation order, for the first ten days, I was in our moshav, working out of the war room,” Vicky said. As the deputy chairman of the emergency team, she cared for the moshav’s residents and the many IDF soldiers arriving en masse in the area. “The army lacked equipment and food since a huge number of soldiers were sent to the border in a very short amount of time. We prepared food packages and equipment and transported them to the different units stationed on the border.”

With the evacuation, her role intensified. “One of the things I was responsible for at the beginning was taking care of the absorption of people into hotels; that was the toughest part,” described Vicky. “For two weeks that felt like hell, I slept about three hours every night. People were disoriented and used to having their own space and little private bubble, especially the kids, and suddenly they felt trapped.

People fainted all the time and had panic attacks; it wasn’t easy.”

As reinforcements came in from the regional council, Vicky’s role shifted.

Now, she oversees the medical sector in the hotel, finding relevant health insurance clinics for every resident, coordinating doctors’ visits to the hotel, and pro-

Vicky Tiferet

viding an initial response to emergencies as an EMT. “It’s a different battlefield, but I’m still in the thick of it,” she said.

Vicky recently responded to an alert on her communications device from United Hatzalah’s Dispatch and Command Center about an elderly patient with dif-

EMT in the hotel, they told me, ‘If you weren’t here, what would we do if someone suffered cardiac arrest, G-d forbid?’”

Vicky recalled.

Amidst all the challenges of being displaced, Vicky vigorously continues to prepare and train for all scenarios. She

“It’s a different battlefield, but I’m still in the thick of it.”

ficulty breathing. The call was located nearby in another hotel room. After Vicky provided initial treatment, the grandmother was transported to the hospital, where doctors discovered pneumonia and fluid in her lungs. “The woman and her daughter were so thankful that I arrived quickly and they didn’t have to wait on their own for the ambulance, which took almost ten minutes to arrive. As the only

recently participated in a Mass Casualty Incident (MCI) training session that the regional council organized. A doctor from Assuta Hospital led the training, which concentrated on learning lessons from the October 7th attack. “We can’t afford to stop learning, especially now,” said Vicky.

Vicky’s journey with United Hatzalah began five years ago. Working in alterna-

tive medicine, she heard about an EMT course opening in her area. After completing the course, she volunteered with United Hatzalah. Three years ago, Vicky became the first woman ever appointed to head a branch of United Hatzalah.

Born to a Ukrainian family that lived in Turkmenistan, Vicky made aliyah with her parents when she was nine.

She played a significant role in United Hatzalah’s humanitarian mission to Moldova following the outbreak of war in Ukraine.

Having no siblings, Vicky described the sense of belonging she found within United Hatzalah. “This orange family draws you in; you have a huge family everywhere in the country.”

Returning to the difficult reality of her situation, she recalled the events of October 7th and how they turned life upside down.

“We woke up to a dark morning. Everyone in the moshav quickly realized the ramifications for us. Many immediately packed their bags and left, going to areas in central Israel or even flying abroad.

The next day, the routine of rocket attacks, anti-tank missiles, and drone infiltrations began.”

Her husband, Oded, who serves as the head of the moshav’s security team, was also immediately mobilized.

“We’re trained for this. Back in ‘75, there was a terrorist infiltration during my father-in-law’s tenure as the head of the moshav’s security. Since then, this is a scenario the moshav has prepared for every year.” When the moshav’s residents were evacuated, Oded had to remain behind due to his position. Vicky has barely seen him since.

“Living in a hotel is not a vacation,” she clarified. “There is no clear future, and we have no idea when we will be able to go home or if we will ever mentally feel able to. We live day by day. In the meantime, all I can do is try to keep my sanity, and one way to do that is to help others in any way I can.”

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Immas of Those in the IDF Mothers of soldiers in the ArMy shAre their stories

By Malkie schulman As dawn breaks, four mothers in different communities across

streets are filled with people; everybody is back on public trans-

Israel wake to a day filled with the same heavy heart. Deena,

portation. Life on the surface looks like it’s business as usual.

in Ramat Eshkol, Jerusalem prepares her younger children for

Except it’s not. There are displaced families still living away from

school, her movements automatic, her mind miles away with her

their homes. And what about those who have family members

paratrooper son stationed in Gaza. In another part of Jerusalem,

serving in active combat? And which Jew doesn’t? We’re all

Goldy starts her day with a hopeful prayer to Hashem to keep

one family so every one of us has family members serving. But

her soldier sons safe. In Yishuv Mevo Charon near Latrun, Chana

what about the mothers and fathers and the spouses and the

has been up for hours already. She can never sleep these days,

children of the soldiers? I cannot fathom how a mother exists

her mind on her married sons and sons-in-law in active combat

on a daily level knowing her son or daughter is in a killing field.

and their fatherless families scattered over the hills of Yehuda

This article is my attempt to understand something of the

and Shomron. Brewing her morning coffee, Lesley in Netanya

courage of these amazing women who watch their son – and

tries not to let her worries take over, especially when she hasn’t

often sons – go off to war knowing it’s not a video game but a

heard from her son in days.

very real possibility of their sons not returning. I interview these

I’m visiting Israel trying to make sense of the craziness and

courageous women hoping perhaps a little of their strength will

schizophrenic way people are living. There is a war going on. It

rub off on me. Maybe I can get into their heads a little and un-

doesn’t look like it. Soldiers are dying. Soldiers are being saved

derstand how they go on each day, from where they draw their

by miracles. Too many orphans. Too many widows. Yet the

inspiration, fortitude, and their courage.

Meet the Moms

OBGYN, fertility specialist, rabbanit, publicist, author of ten books, and writer of a weekly woman’s health column on Medical Ethics, Family and Judaism, Chana Katan wears many hats (or snoods) but the title she is most partial to is as the mother of 13 children, ranging in ages from 22 to 42 years old. Many of her children with large families of their own are kollel families. Now, however, seven of her sons and sonsin-law are serving in the Israeli army.

“Between all the families,” she shares, “over 40 children are living without their fathers, and most of their wives are either after birth or before birth.”

Goldy Minkowitz* (a pseudonym) is a busy homemaker and mom of 12 children living in Katamon.

Three of her single sons are in the Israeli army in combat. As a Lubavitcher chassida, she is very active in outreach and other communal affairs.

Lesley Kaplan, business coach and consultant, who runs networkDeena’s son in battle ing and training groups for women in business, originally from South Africa, is a biological mom to five and together with her second husband has a blended family of 10 children. She has one married son in active combat and two sons-inlaw and two stepchildren in the army.

Deena Nouril, content marketing writer for Israeli high-tech companies, is a charedi mom of five.

Her son, a paratrooper of Elite Unit 890, was in one of the first two helicopters that were flown into Otef Aza near Kibbutz Be’eri the morning of October 7.

The current challenge is even worse, she maintains, than when her husband was called away to fight in previous wars. “Those days, you weren’t made aware of every detail in the war zone as it was happening. I was busier with my small children then. Not only that, but as a mother this time, so many of my children are involved, not to mention all the grandchildren that are affected. Besides,” she adds, “a mother naturally has more compassion for her children; she feels it’s her responsibility to protect them, and I realize now that I cannot protect them at all.” On top of all that, she says, “my children live so far away so I can’t even physically help them with the children or housework, and they can’t come to us because the children need to be in their regular misgeret (environment). And if it sounds crazy, it’s because it is crazy!”

“When the war first broke out and my son was sent to the front,” shares Lesley, “like the rest of the country, I froze. We were in shock. Everybody was watching the news all the time. But, thank G-d, I’m resilient and am blessed with the ability to bounce back quickly.”

Lesley learned that though she needed to stay informed, watching the news hourly was not helpful. She had to find the balance between staying informed and not being glued. As a doer by nature, Lesley found that her way of coping was to start doing.

“As a business coach and consultant working with Israeli business owners, I started a weekly podcast series called ‘Motivation Monday Spotlight,’ Lesley shares. “Each week, I interview a local business owner or founder of a nonprofit. Since the war impacted many businesses, my aim is to help them gain exposure and get back on their feet. The series is designed to motivate and inspire others by featuring speakers and showcasing businesses. This not only supports the community but also provides a positive distraction for me during these challenging times.”

Lesley, when coaching private clients, often emphasizes the importance of focusing on what we can control in our lives rather than dwelling on what we can’t control. She finds this perspective especially helpful in her present life situation, where she’s dealing with the constant worry about her son being in combat.

Something that is in her power and gives her a sense of satisfaction is donating food items and tactical gear such as helmets to her son’s army unit. “It’s gratifying when my son tells me how needed these helmets are.”

“In the beginning, I used to go to funerals and pay shiva calls but I stopped because it was too painful,” says Chana. Instead, in her professional capacity, Dr. Katan will help fertility patients whose husbands are in the army and brides who have to change their wed-

“i tell Myself thAt the greAtest gift i

cAn give My soldier when he returns

The Overwhelming Fear

hoMe is A MoM who hAs MAintAined

As they navigate their daily lives, these women carry the heavy burden of uncertainty, constantly worrying about the safety of their sons who are in active combat zones. Their experiences offer a poignant insight into the emotional toll of war on families and the resilience they must muster in the face of their greatest fears.

How do they cope with the constant anxiety and uncertainty? What are some of the strategies they employ to maintain some semblance of normalcy amidst the chaos of war?

For Goldy, the night is challenging. “Especially when I look at the news and hear, shelo neda, that some soldiers went to the Next World, it can make me b’emet very distraught.” That’s when she turns to her Tehillim.

Goldy also concedes that it’s a mistake when she becomes overly involved in military maneuver details or constantly watches bombing footage or videos of soldiers marching into Gaza. “We are where our thoughts are,” Goldy says, “and none of this informa-

her positivity, sAnity And strength.”

“But when I see the faces of the young soldiers who’ve died the day before, I break down and cry. It can take me the rest of the day to get back to myself. However, I am hyper-conscious of distracting myself from my own stress in order to stay strong for my family. I tell myself that the greatest gift I can give my soldier when he returns home is a mom who has maintained her positivity, sanity and strength. I do everything I can to mechazek (strengthen) myself in whatever way I can.”

Chana admits that she doesn’t sleep well. “I’ve done Hatavat chalom [literally meaning to make a bad dream good, which involves reciting a specific prayer in front of three rabbis] a few times already.

When I can’t fall back asleep, I’ll either say Tehillim or walk around the Yishuv. I get up so much at night that I feel like I can share duties with the shomer (night watchman)!”

Moved to Action

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tion encourages positive thoughts or feelings. I want to be as helpful as I can to our soldiers, so that’s why I try to stay away from this stuff.”

“It’s very concerning,” shares Lesley, “when I send my son a WhatsApp message and there are no checked bars for days indicating he’s out of range and I’ve no idea where he is or how he is.”

For some mothers, that first hour after waking in the morning, if they’ve managed to sleep at all, is the hardest. That’s when they find out who survived the night. And who hasn’t.

“I wake up every morning with a knot in my stomach. Since my son is in active combat in Gaza, it’s very hard to restrain myself from looking at the news, and because his location and missions are top secret, I scour the news for any hints as to where his battalion is that day and what they may be doing,” shares Deena.

The Jewish Home | JANUARY 18, 2024

90 ding dates because their chatanim (grooms) are in combat. She is also part of a mothers’ group advocating against compromising Israeli soldiers’ lives for the sake of Palestinians. One of the group’s arguments is that not bombing a building in Gaza allows Hamas the opportunity to attack. So far, Dr. Katan has expressed these concerns on Arutz 14 and Radio Galei Yisrael, stressing the urgency of the situation where soldiers face ambushes from waiting enemies.

Other issues Dr. Katan has tackled since the war began are how to help the women who are left alone on the yishuvim while their husbands are off in the army.

“These women are in danger. We are advocating for them in the Knesset to give them ammunition so they can defend themselves in case of the real possibility of attack.”

There are those that argue that because of the fear of domestic violence, they don’t want to give women the guns.

“Shetuyot (nonsense),” says Dr. Katan. “There is a much greater danger of the women being hurt by a terrorist attack than domestic violence. Domestic violence through gun use is usually with the Arabs anyway.”

The beautiful thing about these moms is how they use their personal gifts to get involved with the war effort. Goldy is involved daily with acts of chesed.

Whether it’s packaging food or clothes for evacuees, handing out candles to the not-yet religious or visiting a shiva house, Goldy does it all with a smile and an embrace.

“I went to the funeral of a female soldier and on the way back to my car, I was handing out candles,” she shares. “I’d prepared myself that if I saw anyone in need of a hug, I’d be there for her. I approached a woman and asked her if she wanted candles. She turned around, and we spontaneously hugged for four minutes straight. Then I asked her for her Jewish name and davened for her on the spot. She went on her way, comforted from the tza’ar she felt about the whole situation.”

It seems to be a fact of life that there’s nothing like a uniquely shared experience that can bring people together, even people from polar opposite political and religious points of view. Deena asserts that the two parents’ group chats that she belongs to are her lifeline. One is made up of parents of her son’s tzanchanim (paratroopers) unit, while the other is for general Anglo parents of IDF soldiers.

“When I’m feeling that desperate ‘survival mode’ feeling, the only people I can speak to are other combat moms.” They’re the only people Deena feels can relate to what she’s going through.

Most of the parents, she shares, are not religious, and while it was a bit of a shock at first on both sides, she now asserts that she cannot get through her day without their support.

“When they first saw me with my covered hair and skirt, they were in shock. They couldn’t understand how a charedi mother could have a son in the army, and in my charedi neighborhood, they were also shocked – for the same reason.” Today, Deena says, “I straddle both worlds. I feel at one with my yeshivish community and at one with the nonreligious parents.

Doing Spiritual Battle

Lesley’s son being greeted as he comes home for Shabbos

Deena and her daughters with her son

“After October 7, I don’t even call these parents ‘secular’ anymore because they talk about Hashem constantly. In every conversation, they say things like ‘baruch Hashem,’ ‘Hashem yishmor aleyhem’ (Hashem should watch over them). After every piece of good news, there’s always a handful of parents who write ‘Toda raba l’Borei Olam’ [thank You to the Creator].

It’s inspiring to me. They realize that no one can save their sons except Hashem. Not even the army. After all, their sons are the army! And nobody talks about politics even though before the war many of them were ardent leftists (and possibly still are), and nobody talks religion. It’s all love. We all believe Hashem will bring our boys back safe, and we all have boundless Jewish love for our sons. That’s what unites us.”

At the end of the day, for the mothers I’ve spoken to the only way to get through the unbearable fear and despair is by turning to Hashem.

“Every day,” Deena says, “I repeat over and over the words hakol meduyak, hakol b’hashgocha, hakol l’tova [all is exact, all is with Divine providence, all is for the good].”

Internalizing that everything that is going on below is being orchestrated from Above, that it’s Hashem’s decision who will live and who will die, not the terrorist, even though it’s an absolute nightmare is the only way to keep strong, Deena maintains. “Otherwise, I would fall into the chaos because it’s just too much when you think that what’s happening is random.”

Lesley has a practice of talking to G-d and thanking Him every day.

“It’s always been something I do but now even more so,” she says. “Every Friday night at candle lighting, I thank Hashem for a safe week and of course, my son in Gaza is the first to come to mind.” Lesley stresses the importance of talking to G-d to thank Him for His many gifts to us, not just to make requests.

The spiritual way of combatting evil and strengthening oneself has always traditionally been through enhanced prayer, especially reciting Tehillim and doubling down on mitzvah performance. Strengthening emunah is also part of every Jew’s spiritual arsenal whether through reading on their seforim own or listening to Torah teachers.

It’s a Chabad tradition to review the daily portion of Chitas – Chumash, Tehillim and Tanya – every day.

Goldy maintains that one of the spiritual benefits of reviewing Chitas daily is that it instills fear in the nonJews. “Am Yisrael is one entity. We’re a body and a soul. The boys are doing the body part, and we are doing the soul part.” To that end, she has increased her tzedakah giving. “Also, I try hard to only speak positively of others. The unity of Am Yisrael is so important, especially at this time.”

“I feel like I have to be strong for my daughtersin-law but really they have much more emunah than me,” shares Chana. “My children believe that we are called upon specifically in this era to do something important. Hashem chose us for this. This is the times of ikvasa d’Meshichah [the footsteps of Moshiach].”

The mothers believe it’s a no-choice war. We were attacked, we have to defend ourselves, we have to destroy our enemy to the finish, so they don’t come back and do the same to us again. It’s a time, according to Dr. Katan, that we have to put the wishes of the individual aside and focus on what the collective needs, on the needs of Am Yisrael. “You are raised to a higher spiritual level when you’re busy with the klal,” Dr. Katan maintains.

In Goldy’s opinion, it’s “Moshiach tzeit” [Moshiach’s times]. We’re experiencing the birth pangs of Moshiach, and we need to keep praying and doing more acts of kindness.

“My husband and I are very proud of our kids. We understand that they’ve been called to do the number one task to defend our people and our land. One of our sons was going to do an important but very dangerous mission. We made sure to tell him before he left that

There was a group of soldiers stationed on the top floor in a building in Gaza when they saw something come flying towards them from the building opposite them. That “something” crashed through the apartment window and landed in the middle of the living room where they were sitting. “We all braced our-

Lesley’s son on the frontlines

A Nation of Miracles

Despite the tragic news that comes out of Israel daily, Hashem yishmor, miracles abound. All the mothers say their sons tell them that miracles are happening all around them, all the time. Even when soldiers are killed, so many more could have been killed, they say. For Deena, it’s a miracle that her son survived October 7. Bullets were whizzing by her son’s head for 40 hours straight in Kibbutz Be’eri. “If his head would’ve been a little to the right or a little more to the left, he would’ve been hit,” she says. Every minute of survival those three days was a miracle.

Another obvious miracle unfolded for Deena’s son that day as he waited on the ground in the bushes, gun pointed at a door, for the two terrorists he knew were inside to emerge. He shot the first guy who came out, but the second terrorist, seeing what happened, threw a grenade at the bush where her son was hiding. The grenade ricocheted and flew back onto the terrorist’s chest and blew him up. Not one surviving soldier of that day, he tells his mother, doesn’t have stories like that.

“A soldier in my son’s platoon,” relates Goldy, “got a direct hit to his helmet from a sniper bullet. His helmet flew off, and he fainted. When he came to, he wasn’t sure where he was, and thinking he was dying, said Shema Yisroel. It turns out, miraculously, all he got was a small scratch on his head. But this event changed his life. Today, he is filled with gratitude to Hashem for saving him. Right after it happened, he went on the news and told everybody about his miraculous salvation. It was a big kiddush Hashem.”

One Chanukah morning, Deena received a message from her WhatsApp group. The group administrator, an ex-Israeli army commander and father of a tzanchan, told the mostly non-religious parents, “I don’t know what your merit is, but your kids experienced a miracle this morning.”

Deena’s son with his unit in Gaza

“our sons Are fighting evil. they’re doing hAsheM’s will to Bring g-dliness into the world.”

selves to die,” Deena’s son told her later. But apart from a little piece of the RPG (a rocket-propelled grenade that they later discovered was what it was) breaking off and sizzling a bit, nothing happened. At that point, the soldiers grabbed their gear and made a run for it.

The Yahalom unit, which dismantles explosives, later told the group of 14 soldiers that their lives were saved by exactly one centimeter. Had the RPG been launched exactly one centimeter higher than it was, and aimed one centimeter more downward, the warhead would have hit the floor and exploded. The boys learned that Chanukah morning that they are existing in Gaza, within one centimeter between life and death.

“My son told me he can never take life for granted again. He knows he is a walking miracle,” Deena shares.

Despite the gruesome terror attack of this past Simchas Torah, ardently Zionistic, Dr. Katan maintains that Eretz Yisroel is the safest place to be.

“Antisemitism around the world is on the rise,” she says. “This is where we’re supposed to be. Hashem gave us this land; this is a milchemet mitzvah.

We’re writing history; we’re writing the future. If we truly believe this, we will be victorious.”

B’yachad N’natzeach

It’s very clear that we’re fighting evil. We need to support our boys and be positive and confident, says Goldy. They need to see we believe in them.

Each person has to do what they can in their own way. Whether it’s smiling at a soldier, saying a bracha, reciting Tehillim – everything we do matters.

But perhaps most important of all is the realization that we’re all in this together. We must stand united.

Of course, we have differences, but we don’t need to focus on them.

Goldy tells the story of a few soldiers stuck in a tank together over two days. The non-religious soldier was apprehensive – how would they get along?

– he was not dati and the other soldiers were. What would they talk about?

“In the end, he said, we spoke about so many things from aleph to tav and realized that we are really brothers. We have 90% in common. If that’s so, why focus on the 10%?”

Perhaps a positive outcome of this terrible war is the unity that seems to be sparking a comeback in Israel. All across religious and political ideologies, individuals are coming to recognize that there’s only one way to make it through this challenging time – b’yachad. Certainly, the soldiers on the battlefield are in sync. Maybe it’s time for the rest of us to come together as well.

I

t’s the end of our time together, and I wonder if I’ve accomplished my goal. I’m certainly inspired and awed by all I’ve heard, by the incredible way these moms are transforming their day-to-day dread into meaningful acts of kindness and connection with the Borei Olam. But have I been able to imbibe any of their strength? Would I be able to transmute my feelings of terror and anxiety into acts of meaning were I, G-d forbid, in a similar situation? I’m not sure. One thing I do know, though, is that the merit of these women of valor is great, and in their zechut, may Hashem bring all our precious soldiers home safely now!

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we were totally behind him, giving gav [support] for the great deed he was going to perform [for the protection of Am Yisroel].”

Goldy feels strongly that her boys have been nominated to do a job like the Maccabees, defending Jewish people all over the world, not just in Israel.

“Our sons are fighting evil. They’re doing Hashem’s will to bring G-dliness into the world,” says Goldy. “They’re defending our holy land and our holy Torah.”

Even for Deena, though it is not the charedi way to send their sons to fight the physical battle, she says they are proud of their son and believe he is doing what he was born to do.

“He saved so many lives on October 7 alone as he continues to defend our borders and capture and destroy Hamas terrorists. Most of the neighbors are proud of my son. Every erev Shabbos, kugels, desserts, and flowers arrive on our doorstep. On Chanukah, three different families sent homemade donuts.

It’s a chizuk to my son when I tell him the Ramat Eshkol community is an actual army of people davening for him and sending us treats every week to keep us feeling supported.”

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Israel Today

Victory is More Important Than U.S. Support

By Caroline Glick

A

t his press conference last Tuesday evening, U.S. Secretary of State Tony Blinken showed that contrary to popular belief, the Biden administration is not Israel’s ally. It is the greatest obstacle to Israel’s victory.

Blinken began his remarks by drawing a moral equivalence between the suffering of Israeli hostages and their families and that of the Palestinians in Gaza. The Palestinians in Gaza, who overwhelmingly support Hamas, are just as innocent as the hostages, Blinken insisted.

Blinken said nothing about the torture, [assault], mutilation and deliberate starvation of the hostages carried out by Hamas terrorists and its civilian accomplices alike. Instead, Blinken spoke of the “acute food insecurity,” that Gazans suffer from – and blamed that “acute food insecurity” on Israel.

“Israel needs to do everything it can to remove any obstacles from [aid] crossing to...Gaza. Improving deconfliction procedures to ensure that the aid can move safely and securely is a critical part of that,” he said.

The body responsible for distributing “humanitarian aid” in Gaza today is the United Nations, through UNRWA. Blinken ignored completely the documented fact that thousands of UNRWA employees posted fulsome praise for the Oct. 7 slaughter on social media. He ignored the overwhelming evidence that UNRWA schools and clinics are Hamas military bases. He ignored that UNRWA employees have been credibly accused of holding Israeli hostages and deliberately starving them. And he ignored that UNRWA employees, including all of its regional directors in Gaza, have been credibly accused of being Hamas terrorists themselves.

Burying his head deep in the sand, Blinken cooed, “The United Nations is playing an indispensable role in addressing the immense humanitarian needs in

Gaza. There is simply no alternative.

“UN personnel...in Gaza are demonstrating extraordinary courage by continuing to provide lifesaving services in what are extremely challenging conditions.”

Israel, he demanded, must join the United States in giving the United Nations its “full support.”

As for Israel’s military campaign to wipe out Hamas, Blinken said that military operations must take no toll on civilians, even if that means that Israel will lose the war.

“We know that facing an enemy that embeds itself among civilians – who hides in and fires from schools, from hospitals – makes this incredibly challenging. But the daily toll on civilians in Gaza, particularly on children, is far too high,” said Blinken.

The only way to separate the civilians from the terrorists and so protect them is by permitting them to leave Gaza, just as 6 million Ukrainians left their country since the Russian invasion.

Gazans are so eager to leave that the Guardian reported they are paying

10,000$ to middlemen to bribe Egyptian officials to let them leave. But the United States will have none of it.

“The United States unequivocally rejects any proposals advocating for the resettlement of Palestinians outside of Gaza,” said Blinken with a scowl.

Not only must Israel force the Palestinians to stay in Gaza and care for them, Israel must allow them to return to northern Gaza, thus subverting Israel’s main sustained operational achievement since the ground operation began.

“In today’s meetings” with Israeli leaders, Blinken said, “I was also crystal clear: Palestinian civilians must be able to return home as soon as conditions allow.”

The only way for the now abandoned Israeli towns and villages bordering Gaza to be rebuilt and for their surviving residents to return safely is to block Hamas from rebuilding its terror infrastructure, including its forces in northern Gaza.

Keeping that area unpopulated, or lightly populated, for the foreseeable future is a military imperative.

After demanding that Israel permit

Hamas to survive and regroup in Gaza, Blinken moved to the northern front against Hezbollah. There, too, the United States demands that Israel lose.

“As I told the war cabinet and other senior officials, the United States stands with Israel in ensuring its northern border is secure. We’re fully committed to working with Israel to find a diplomatic solution that avoids escalation and allows families to return to their homes, to live security in northern Israel and also in southern Lebanon,” he said.

The problem is that the “diplomatic solution,” the United States proposes will make it impossible for Israel to secure its northern border or permit the 80,000 civilians that were forced to flee their homes along to border to return to their homes.

Blinken and the administration are pushing for a deal that will see no decrease in Hezbollah’s forces trained to invade Israel and commit genocide. Their deal will see no decrease in Hezbollah’s missile and drone arsenal, which are capable of destroying strategic targets and civilian populations throughout Israel.

The administration’s “diplomatic solution” requires Israel to surrender sovereign territory to Hezbollah in exchange for the removal of Hezbollah forces from the border area.

There are two problems with the plan.

First, it requires Israel to surrender its land to terrorists. And second, the only force capable of pushing Hezbollah away from the border is the Israel Defense Forces, a prospect the deal is geared towards blocking at all costs.

In other words, just as is the case with Gaza, U.S. policy is to enable Israel’s enemies to win strategic victories against Israel by forbidding Israel to defeat them on the battlefield.

Leaving aside the administration’s slavish commitment to establishing Iran as the regional hegemon by empowering

concessions to the P.A. in Judea, Samaria and Jerusalem that will facilitate the establishment of a Palestinian state.

Blinken’s statements on the topic were nearly bereft of diplomatic niceties.

“As I told the prime minister, every [Arab] partner that I met on this trip said that they’re ready to support a last-

to their homes in southern and northern Israel is to do precisely the opposite of what the United State demands. Israel must end the farce of “humanitarian assistance” to Gaza. It must stop providing electricity and fuel to Gaza. It must fully control the distribution of food and water to the population. It must block the

The only way for Israel to rout its enemies and enable its citizens to return to their homes in southern and northern Israel is to do precisely the opposite of what the United State demands.

ing solution that ends the long-running cycle of violence and ensures Israel’s security. But they underscored that this can only come through a regional approach that includes a pathway to a Palestinian state,” he said.

“To make this possible, Israel must be a partner to Palestinian leaders who are willing to lead their people in living side by side in peace with Israel and as neighbors,” he continued, adding, “and Israel must...stop taking steps that undercut Palestinians’ ability to govern themselves effectively.”

Doubling down on his practice of slandering Israelis as the moral equivalents of terrorists, Blinken then libeled the half million Israeli residents of Judea and Samaria as well as IDF forces operating in these areas.

“Extremist settler violence carried out with impunity, settlement expansion, demolitions, evictions all make it harder, not easier, for Israel to achieve lasting peace and security,” he said.

Finally, echoing Tapper’s report, Blinken took a shot at Israel’s leadership, stating that “if Israel wants its Arab neighbors to make the tough decisions necessary to help ensure its lasting security, Israeli leaders will have to make hard decisions themselves.”

Blinken made his remarks during the primetime news hour. Before he spoke, commentators from left to right insisted that Blinken is a friend and an ally in Israel’s war. After his diatribe, they sheepishly changed their tune.

Blinken, they admitted, presented demands that would foment Israel’s defeat. The only way for Israel to rout its enemies and enable its citizens to return

return of the population to northern Gaza. And it must open the Egyptian border with Gaza to permit the Gazans to leave or permit them to exit through Israel.

As for Hezbollah, the government must stop participating in the destructive farce of U.S. diplomacy. Instead, Israel should strike missile stores and

terrorist barracks and be prepared to carry out a ground operation in the immediate term.

Israel must defeat Hezbollah. It is the only way Israelis in northern communities will be able to live safely in their homes.

If the United States retaliates by placing a weapons embargo on Israel, then Israel must make do with what it has and what it can produce. Use of imprecise missiles will expand collateral damage, but it will also win the war faster at less risk to IDF soldiers.

Since entering office, the Biden administration has treated Israel with colonialist contempt. Rather than respect Israel as an independent ally, Biden and his aides have acted like imperial overlords barking orders at a backwater, troublesome province.

Despite the pressure, Netanyahu and his ministers must remember that Israel is not a vassal state. We are a successful regional power. It is Israeli power – not U.S. charity – that has sustained us to date.

And it is Israeli power – not U.S. largesse – that will bring us victory in this war for our survival. If forced to choose between support from Washington and victory, the choice is an easy one. (JNS)

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the regime and its terror proxies, the expressed goal of the administration’s effort to induce an Israeli defeat is to establish a Palestinian state.

As the administration sees things, the main obstacle to this goal is Israel, and specifically, the Netanyahu government, which represents the people of Israel.

To push this obstacle aside, the administration is working to overthrow the Netanyahu government. On Sunday, CNN’s Jake Tapper reported that an administration official told him that Netanyahu has to choose between his coalition partners from the nationalist Religious Zionism and Otzma Yehudit parties led by Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich and National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir, respectively, and his ties to President Biden and the United States.

In other words, Netanyahu needs to choose between the Israeli public, which elected him to office as the head of a right-religious governing coalition, and Washington, which rejects the will of the Israeli people.

During his visit Tuesday, Blinken took the unprecedented step of meeting privately with Minister Benny Gantz and Knesset member Gadi Eisenkot. In the wake of the Oct. 7 invasion, Gantz and Eisenkot brought their leftist opposition party into the government to form an emergency unity coalition. The administration has been all but explicit about its intention to use these men and their party to overthrow the Netanyahu government.

Immediately after their meeting, reports began to stream in that Gantz’s inclination to leave the government is growing. Blinken and the administration see two scenarios for Gantz to seize power. Either Gantz can incite a revolt in Likud that can lead to Netanyahu’s ouster and the formation of an alternative government led by Gantz in the current Knesset; or by working with the administration, Gantz can force Netanyahu to accept pro-Palestinian policies that will compel Smotrich and Ben-Gvir to bolt the government. If they leave and Gantz remains in the coalition, Netanyahu will become completely dependent on Gantz to remain in power.

Under both scenarios, the administration believes that it will be in a position to force Israel to crown the terrorist Fatah-led Palestinian Authority as the new leader of Gaza. That in turn will set the stage for a massive pressure campaign to coerce the Gantz-controlled government to make massive strategic

nspiration Nation

The Jewish Home | JANUARY 18, 2024

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Rabbi YY Jacobson Shining Your Inner Light

By Eliyahu RosEnBERg

O

ne might reasonably assert that our main purpose in life is to cultivate positive relationships.

From connecting to G-d to loving one’s fellow Jew to making peace with oneself, the happiest people are those who have

the healthiest relationships. But in a time of progressive disconnection – in which more and more people are losing touch with the world and moving away from the things that count the most – we risk forgetting how to love.

In His Words… labels are really a very fake and superficial, easy, but inauthentic way of describing the Jewish people and describing reality. in the words of the Baal haTanya: the inner consciousness of a Jew is a piece of g-d. so, if i can really identify that, then the words lubavitch, litvish, Modern, orthodox, yeshivish…ultimately melt away in the presence of the true infinite depth of the human soul and the human brain.

” ”

The point of a relationship is not that we have to agree and see eye-to-eye on everything. it’s that we have to be able to trust each other. a person possesses inside his or her soul an infinite light that can change the world, but it’s so deep that it can also remain dormant for their whole life. and the only way you can access it is if you really work through lots of issues, you really have to work through all your vulnerabilities, traumas, blemishes, and blockages – only by working on them will you discover your true potential, your true essence, and then you’ll be able to own your light.

”

When it comes to the topic of relationships, few are as insightful as Rabbi YY (Yosef Yitzchak) Jacobson, a popular inspirational speaker and advocate for unity among Jews. Having amassed a large following, “Rabbi YY” has captivated Jews of all backgrounds with his deep lectures and intellectually stimulating talks. He is a man on a mission, dedicated to helping the Jewish nation view life through a lens of divinity and truth.

Although the actualization of Rabbi YY’s mission began in his adulthood, it was his childhood experiences at the Rebbe’s farbrengens that ultimately led him to choose this path.

When Rabbi YY was a young boy, his father would take him to hear the Rebbe speak at 770 every Shabbos. Unlike his peers, who would spend the day playing on Eastern Parkway, six-year-old Rabbi YY would have to listen to deep, complex talks that would go on for hours and hours. Jealous of his friends and extremely bored, he would daydream and space out during the farbrengens and engage in silly antics, tying people’s tzitzis strings together as a practical joke. Four years later, at age ten, young YY’s “tzitzis campaign” was still his go-to method of entertaining himself during the farbrengens. But one Shabbos, as the young boy was hard at work, tying together the tzitzis strings of several unsuspecting victims, the Rebbe, out of the blue, pointed right at him.

“That was very rare, because the Rebbe wouldn’t address individuals at the farbrengen. There were thousands

of people!” Rabbi Jacobson noted. “He’s pointing at me, and I’m thinking: Wow, after all these years of daydreaming and tying tzitzis, maybe the Rebbe finally got upset… But instead of throwing me out, he broke out in a big smile, and he asked me a question that I’ll never forget: ‘How do you know that the universe exists?’

“I remember my face changing colors. I really didn’t know what to say. It was so uncomfortable, so I was just quiet. The Rebbe waited for maybe ten to fifteen seconds, and then he broke out in a big smile, and he decided to answer the question as though I answered it,” he recalled. “And he said, ‘So the child answers: How do I know the universe exists? Because the opening verse of the whole Torah is Bereishis bara Elokim es hashamayim v’es ha’aretz, that Hashem created Heaven and Earth. So, if the Torah says the world exists, it must exist.’”

The following week, the young boy was no longer tying people’s tzitzis strings together. He instead started listening attentively to the Rebbe’s speeches so as to be prepared to answer any further questions. And once he began listening, he found it impossible to stop.

Even at the young age of ten, Rabbi YY Jacobson found himself endlessly mesmerized by the Rebbe’s talks, which he quickly found himself “addicted” to, an “addiction” from which he hopes to never recover.

Years later, Rabbi YY realized that the Rebbe asked the question to communicate an important message: that children possess the purest worldviews.

95 comfortable, way of describing things,” Rabbi YY said. “The fact that someone has grown up in a certain community obviously has an impact, but it’s really insignificant relative to tuning into the person’s soul and the person’s challenges and circumstances. Then you see that people are really individuals.

“In the words of the Baal HaTanya: the inner consciousness of a Jew is a piece of G-d. So, if I can really identify that, then the words Lubavitch, Litvish, Modern, Orthodox, Yeshivish… ultimately melt away in the presence of the true infinite depth of the human soul and the human brain.”

At the core of disunity is not difference, but rather, the refusal to be different. Only once we accept that everyone should be unique, can we focus on that which truly matters: our shared nature as the children of G-d. But if we live in denial, insisting that those who disagree with us are unequivocally wrong and that everyone who isn’t like us is either evil or sorely misguided, then we will only be creating more division in an already broken world.

As Rabbi YY explains, the Gemara says that both the views of Beis Shammai and Beis Hillel are the words of G-d.

How can that possibly be true when they’re opposite opinions?

“Truth is manifested through many different middos, personalities, and flavors, but it’s still divrei Elokim chaim – the words of the living G-d,” Rabbi Jacobson explained.

As it says in Pirkei Avos, any machlokes that is l’sheim Shamayim will endure. Surprisingly, a similar phenomenon has been observed in marriages. People used to believe that the best marriages had the fewest number of arguments and the worst marriages had the largest number of arguments. Interestingly enough, Drs. John and Julie Gottman, who spent

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.

forty years researching marriage, found that, in a happy marriage, 69% of arguments practically last forever.

“Sixty-nine percent of arguments that they have in the beginning of their marriage, they’ll also have when he’s 99 and she’s 97, and they’re on a hammock in Palm Beach, Florida,” said Rabbi YY. “The same arguments that they had at Sheva Brachos seventy-five years earlier, they’re still having: where do we go for Pesach, milchigs or fleishigs, do we keep the light open, do we keep the light closed, is it too cold, is it too hot?

“In a bad marriage, arguments end with either me convincing you or you convincing me, or I stonewall you and I run away,” he added. “In a good marriage, arguments end with the recognition that we can really see things in different ways.”

As it says in the Torah: v’ahavta l’rayacha kamocha, and you shall love your fellow as yourself. In order to love

others, you have to love yourself first.

Too many people hate or dislike themselves because of some personal flaws they may or may not have, and yet, no one has changed for the better by adopting a terrible self-image. Rather, people improve by viewing themselves as worthy of positive change. We live with ourselves, we are stuck with ourselves, every second of the day. Is that not sufficient reason to love and respect ourselves despite our shortcomings?

As Rabbi YY Jacobson explains, life’s challenges are really just opportunities to enable us to help others. Those who struggle through life may, chas v’shalom, feel resentful towards Hashem for putting so many obstacles in their path when they just want to be close to their Creator. In truth, those who have the greatest challenges have the greatest inner strength.

Their mission is to unlock that inner strength, and once they do so, the world will, no doubt, see their inner light.

JANUARY 18, 2024 | The Jewish Home

They don’t get their information from the media or any outside sources; they understand the world in the way the first pasuk of the Torah describes it: that Hashem created the Earth at the beginning of time. But Rabbi YY felt that the Rebbe was giving him a personal message as well.

“When I grew up, I thought to myself: maybe this was some form of a calling or a mission statement or an empowerment,” Rabbi YY explained. “That my mission is to remind everyone to learn about the world from Bereishis bara Elokim es hashamayim v’es ha’aretz, to really be able to see the world and ourselves from a divine perspective.”

Today, Rabbi YY Jacobson is one of the most well-known and beloved inspirational speakers, but he never planned or expected to achieve any level of fame.

In his early adulthood, Rabbi YY spent many years learning, after which he started writing a column in his father’s Yiddish newspaper. One day, Rabbi YY received an invitation from a community in Chicago, asking him to come for Shabbos. Surprised by the sudden invite, Rabbi YY thought they must be mistaken in requesting his presence, but they insisted that he come. A week later, he received an invitation from another community, and from then on, his career as an inspirational speaker really took off.

In pursuing his life’s mission, Rabbi YY has recognized that labels are, most of the time, harmful. Discounting the fact that they cause disunity, labels are simply an insufficient and inauthentic way of describing people, Rabbi YY explains.

“From my intimate encounters and conversations with countless people from all types of communities, both in the Orthodox world and non-Orthodox world, I’ve come to discover how generalizations are really just an unfair, if

The Jewish Home | JANUARY 18, 2024

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Dating Dialogue

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

Dear Navidaters,

I was away with some friends on a girls’ trip. We’re all single, two were never married and one is divorced. We’ve been taking this trip together for years, but this year felt different for me... Chilling with my friends and hearing my divorced friend talk about the details of her ex and failed mar-

riage made me cringe. I don’t mean to sound judgmental, but I came out feeling really bad for her, but also I kind of see why her husband wanted out. I saw the way she was so loose with all the men we encountered. This trip really solidified for me how terrible her boundaries are, and how clingy she can be.

Now that we’re back, I am trying to navigate my day-to-day friendship with her, but it just seems all wrong. Instead of wanting to hang out with her or talk to her, when she calls, I just want to decline. We’ve been friends for as long as I can remember, and I’m trying to figure out the best way to navigate this friendship from here. I’d love to hear any ideas the panel has. Thanks in advance!

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

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The Panel

Rebbetzin Faigie Horowitz, M.S. ne comment you can carefully make as you discuss plans for getting together is “let’s keep the focus on enjoying our time together. I don’t want to be hunting men during our time together. Having fun together is important to me.”

Another point you can make with sensitivity has to do with timing. When she goes off on a rant about her ex, you can tell her you know she has to heal from her past. You support her and care for her, but you are not the best person to help in this area. People post-divorce often seek professional help so they can move on in a healthy way. You want to sandwich mention of this practice between positive expressions of value of your relationships.

Make sure she doesn’t feel attacked.

Use of the word “journey” is also rather neutral. Everyone is on a journey, whether it is a grief journey, getting over a breakup or loss, or a professional journey. Part of being on a journey is seeing what’s in front of you and avoiding obstacles. You can say something like, “I like to skirt stumbling blocks such as beating up on myself for missteps. I like to look forward in a positive way with joy and anticipation.”

Your relationship with your friend going forward will be a journey, too. At some point, you may have to address boundaries specifically now that you have insight about her issues. But don’t address the boundaries issues and inappropriateness directly right away. Your long-time relationship deserves respect and care. Honor it by keeping it positive and sensitive. See where it goes.

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The Shadchan Michelle Mond ne of the sad parts about getting older is watching our once flourishing friendships fade. As we grow older and change as individuals, we often outgrow friendships that no longer feel right. Think about that piece of decor that has been sitting on your mantle for the past three years. Remember the day you bought it?

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Maybe you hemmed and hawed before you decided it was worth the money to invest in. You brought it home and set it in place; for years, it has been sitting in that same place in your home. At first, it brought you joy and made you happy every time you passed it. Eventually though, it simply wasn’t your taste anymore. Perhaps you decided to paint your living room, and the decor piece no longer matches the theme.

Maybe you even started to dislike it completely.

Akin to this, there are life circumstances and realizations which paint friendships differently in our eyes than we once saw them. It is rare for friendships to last from childhood to adulthood. Sometimes, one might wake up to the realization that a once beloved best friend is actually super self-absorbed and doesn’t care about you.

One might feel suddenly that a friend is inappropriate, has a hidden agenda, or has been creating an unhealthy attachment, which leads to that awkward moment where cutting ties is inevitable.

The first step to your quandary is realizing that friendships don’t always last forever. There will be some friends in your life that will carry over but very few and far between. You can allow a friendship to fizzle out on its own, without making a big deal about it. I don’t think you need to talk to this friend about it – let it fizzle out organically. When you are not interested in talking, don’t talk. When you are not interested in hanging out, don’t hang out.

Life has its way of bringing us clarity.

In the case of this friendship, be grateful you’ve had yours.

The Single Tzipora Grodko irstly, compassion helps humble us as well as tolerate difficult people or circumstances. My heart breaks for your friend. Any person who was in a relationship that led to rejection, abandonment or mistreatment, craves connection, affection and attention from the opposite gender. Keep this in mind as you criticize and judge your friend on her basic attempt to cope through her experiences. Changing perspective distances your impact from her behavior in the friendship.

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Secondly, it’s natural to need a “brake” or to distance yourself after spending long periods of time with friends on vacation.

There’s nothing concerning about it; on the contrary, it’s healthy! Suspend judgement and give yourself time to “breathe” and realign yourself without sharing your space and responsibility to be accommodating.

Lastly, if you continue to feel like this friendship isn’t servicing you, then limit your time and connection in a discrete natural way. It doesn’t need to feel dramatic or life-altering. Space will help you appreciate your friend in the way that will best service both of you.

The Zaidy Dr. Jeffrey Galler here is a lot of missing information here. For example, has your friend

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Now, more than ever, your old friend needs your understanding, your friendship, and your support.

always been like this? And how does the third friend in this trio of girlfriends feel about all this?

But, anyway…

If this problem were between two guys, the solution would be much simpler. A guy would invite his friend to come over and watch a football game.

Then, over buffalo wings and sliders, one

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guy would tell his friend, “You know, for the last six months, you’ve been acting like a jerk.”

They would discuss it, insult each other with gusto and camaraderie, and that would be it. They would either mutually end their friendship, or somehow reconcile.

Please don’t complain that I am misogynistic, but with women, the situation can be more complicated. With women, there is greater drama, greater emotion, and a greater likelihood of a painful and hurtful confrontation.

So, you have two paths here.

Path #1 would be for you to definitively conclude that this friendship is over, because she is too flirty with men, too clingy with you, and too unable to respect boundaries. If so, you can simply become too busy and unavailable to hang out or to have long phone conversations. Eventually, she will get the hint and move on.

Or, path #2 would be for you to try and salvage your longstanding friendship. Perhaps she is behaving like this because she has just gone through a horrible, painful, divorce, and these negative personality changes are temporary and reversible.

According to a local psychologist: “Divorce is a life-changing event that usually has a greater negative, emotional impact on women than on men. It often leads to a significant decline in their mental well-being. Recovering from a divorce takes patience and time.”

So, you might wish to consider that now, more than ever, your old friend needs your understanding, your friendship, and your support.

You may wish to meet with her for a heart-to-heart discussion. But meet in a public spot, like a local coffee shop, in order to minimize the risk of a loud, messy confrontation.

At that meeting, be a good listener, and try to avoid sounding like you’re attacking her. Avoid saying things like, “You were acting so shamelessly!”

Instead, try to help her understand how her behavior affects others. You might wish to say things like, “I felt uncomfortable when…”

And, perhaps, you might wish to suggest to her that she seek professional help.

Finally, remember that, over time,

Life has its way of bringing us clarity.

people change and evolve and not all friendships survive these changes. Only you can decide what’s best for you versus what’s best for your friend.

Good luck.

Pulling It All Together The Navidaters Dating and Relationship Coaches and Therapists

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hank you for writing into our panel.

Friendships change over time and not all are not lifetime friendships. Some come to serve us for a season and a reason.

There is also the truth that divorce is one of the most life-changing and traumatic events that a person will ever experience with aftermath and potential (sometimes temporary) changes to behavior. It is quite typical for people to “act out” or explore things they once would never have imagined doing. If your friend has never acted “loose” or “cringeworthy,” she may simply be having a very hard time. By no means does her vacation behavior necessarily indicate how she behaved in her marriage or explain her divorce.

You have a few choices with how you proceed and navigate this friendship. The first choice is to end things with her. The second choice is to create new boundaries in the friendship. Perhaps you will stop taking this vacation and keep it to things like a girls’ brunch or shopping. The

third option is to have a conversation w ith her about the trip and ask her how she is doing post-divorce. From that honest place, you can decide your next steps.

When our friends go through a hard time and begin to act differently, we need to take an assessment of our own understanding and our emotional bandwidth for a changing relationship. If this person has always been a good friend, we need to decide if we are willing to approach the relationship with compassion, understanding and honesty, making space for this person’s pain and acting out, or if we simply cannot have this person in our lives any longer because she is compromising our values and beliefs and personal sense of safety and comfort. If you truly love her, I think an honest conversation is warranted and that the friendship deserves that.

All the best, Jennifer

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

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Parenting Pearls

A Worthwhile Vacation

By Sara Rayvych, MSEd

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h, yeshiva week. The very thought sends plane fares higher. I will confess to only in the past few years finding out there was an official Jewish name for winter break.

Yeshiva week plans are a big deal for many kids, and enough families will be flying that we can look forward to more ample local parking for a few days. This article won’t be debating the pros and cons of various vacation plans, both because it’s not my place and because

everyone already has made their decisions.

A lot goes into planning a vacation, regardless of whether you’re traveling far or staying close to home. Meals, lodging (if needed), and choosing the correct sites to visit all require logistics and taking in the needs of many individuals. Especially for families with children of various ages, it’s hard to find something that will leave everyone feeling like they’ve been included.

Despite the many hours spent preparing for these important days, we don’t want to forget the most important ingredient for a successful vacation: ourselves! Yes, parents are the one thing that will make a child’s vacation memorable.

The Secret Ingredient The secret ingredient for a successful vacation is the parent. It’s not the location, the activity, or the fancy restaurant that alone creates a pleasant trip – it’s the adults who create the memories.

More than an expensive vacation, children want their parents to be calm and present. If we’re jumpy, short-tempered or stressed, we pass that on to our children. It’s impossible to enjoy anything if your parents are yelling at you, and only a calm parent can be properly focused on their child.

Knowing we need to prioritize our mood, we can take the steps necessary to make it happen. It may mean taking a little time for ourselves or keeping things simpler. Perhaps we need to make sure we don’t skip meals or stay up late packing. Parents usually avoid putting their own needs first, but sometimes taking care of ourselves is the best way to prioritize our children.

Our children need us to be present.

This doesn’t refer only to our physical presence; we need to interact with them, too. Speaking to our children, laughing with them, and doing activities alongside them all show we are present and

care. Limiting work, phone calls, texts and other distractions ensures our children have our full attention. We can’t fake it with kids, and they know if we’re pretending to hear them.

Have fun with your kids. The more we enjoy being with them, the greater their memories. Being a parent can let you feel like a kid again and do those things you would feel silly doing alone.

Join in the arcade game, ride the roller coaster with them, or read the museum descriptions out loud. Feed the fish together or paint the pottery.

We set the tone, and we lead. We may erroneously think our job ends once the initial plans are made. We provide leadership throughout the trip, and kids thrive on having a parent they know they can look towards for security. While a tantruming child can wreak havoc on the best plans, a calm parent can soothe and redirect.

Plan Well A major step parents take towards a successful vacation is proper planning.

We put so much into preparing before a trip because we know it’s the only way for all the parts to come together.

You are unlikely to find a single trip or activity that will make every member of the family happy; the only thing you’ll succeed at is frustrating yourself. Rather than seeing an adult cry, try to find at least something that each individual child will enjoy.

It’s important to know where you’re

dards – even on vacation –we show our children that we won’t compromise our principles. Kashrus, minyan and tzinius are all equally relevant, whether at home or away.

Please remind your children to make a kiddush Hashem wherever they go. Always be a mensch. All trash needs to be cleaned up; heimish wrappers look ter-

venues. Staycations have become a popular option for those that can’t, or simply don’t want to, travel. There are many advantages to being home-based, and parents can make the most of this option. Vacation is more what we make from it and less about the actual destination – despite what children may claim.

More than an expensive vacation, children want their parents to be calm and present.

rible on the floor. Children should know not to cut lines. Parents, please don’t lie about your child’s age to get them in on the cheaper fare. You may save a few dollars now, but it’ll ultimately cost you a lot more in the future.

Vacation at Home Not every parent can take off from work and take their child to exciting

Any location that allows us to spend relaxing time with our child is a worthwhile destination. Choosing at least one place that will appeal to each child can help everyone feel included. The guidelines for a successful long distance vacation will usually work for a staycation, too.

Don’t underestimate the fun that children can have with activities at home. Game night, make your own piz-

za or ice cream sundaes, and scavenger hunts are popular for all ages. We don’t need to go far to enjoy our time together.

While it’s best to dedicate this time to the kids, the reality is that not every parent can take off and spend the entire week with their child. In these situations, we want to make the most from our time outside of work hours. Children expect their vacation will be special and want to have something planned, even if it’s in the evening at home. It may take more creativity, but it’s doable.

Vacation time can be challenging.

There is so much that goes into planning and making it a success. More than an expensive destination or fancy location, it’s the parents that determine what memories a child will remember long into adulthood.

Have a wonderful yeshiva week that builds wonderful memories for a lifetime!

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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going and verify that it will be open on that date and time. It’s incredibly frustrating to drive for more than an hour only to find out the place is closed.

Know pricing, parking, general location, and age guidelines in advance. We don’t want to tell a little one they can do all the activities, only to find out they’re not old enough or the required height.

These small details can make a major difference. In addition to making everything run smoother, it contributes to a child’s sense of trust in their parent when they know their adult is in charge.

There is something about food, and we must always have enough of it. Kids (and adults) are not fun when they’re hungry. Making sure we have enough snacks and meals can prevent a lot of misery on a trip. It’s tempting to hope we’ll be home in time to eat, but traffic and other things can interfere.

Similarly, be mindful of bedtime and naptime. Tired children (and adults) are not pleasant ones. Everyone should have weather appropriate clothing. It’s often the small things that make everything run smoothly.

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School of

Thought

By Etti Siegel

Q:

Dear Etti, Why do parents hate the Mitzvos-Middos checklists we send home over winter break?

I have seen humorous articles that groan about them and heard parents make negative jokes about them. Don’t they understand that we are working so hard every day in school to inculcate certain values and want the children to understand that being Jewish is a 24/7 endeavor? I would imagine parents would support our effort, but instead, I hear negativity.

-Frustrated but Caring Teacher

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Dear Teacher, Thank you! You are working so hard, so let me thank you on behalf of all parents everywhere. People get busy, but everyone is really appreciative of all you do for our precious charges.

I think most parents appreciate and understand the value of the checklists. It reminds the children of the routines a Jewish child does as he/she wakes up and prods them to daven and behave in a proper manner at a time they might feel more inclined not to do so.

So what is the problem with the vacation checklist?

The first issue I hear about is the value of the paper to their children. Taking the checklist on vacation often means misplacing or losing it, a hassle when children get frantic on the last day of vacation hunting for the checklist so they can fill it in and bring it in a get a prize. One mother told me she makes a copy of the checklist before they go away so when vacation ends, she always has the extra copy in case the original got lost. If you can send out a digital copy, many parents would appreciate it.

Another issue parents have with the checklist is the accountability part. Parents don’t really want to nudge their children to follow the checklist when the goal of a vacation is to keep it as nag-free as possible. Many parents look forward to vacation as a break from the constant prodding they have to do when school is in session. Also, the nature of many vacations tends to make having a long checklist difficult to keep out. Perhaps you could put only a few important reminders on the checklist and leave space for children to list other admirable mitzvos and middos they are able to do.

Overall, though, parents are thankful that you are sending the message that being Jewish is 24/7 and that vacation is a break from school, not from Hashem.

So don’t take the jokes about the checklists personally.

Keep up your great work on behalf of our children and enjoy the break!

-Etti

Q:

Dear Etti, I t is diffi c u lt to watch as some children flaunt their vacation plan in front of other children who know their parents have to work and they are off from school but not going anywhere special during winter break. Is there anything I can do?

-An Observing Teacher

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would remind my students who were going away that there are boring times on a trip as well, as I offered them a fun booklet.

We live in an uneven world, and in our Yeshiva and Jewish Day School classrooms, there are wealthy children and children from lower-income families all in the same classrooms.

Our students are going to have to deal with feelings of jealousy every year and in every season unless they learn to be happy for the good fortune of others and accept and make the best of the situation they were given. Our job is to inculcate our charges with bitachon, the belief that we have what we have and we get what we get because Hashem wills it that way, and ours is to accept and make the best of our parcel.

Sharing stories of your staycations growing up, or how you had fun baking, doing arts and crafts, and/or making a small camp for others who were home are all ways to share how you dealt with the disparity. As a teacher, your words inspire and matter. Be careful not to disparage those going on trips as you try to make those staying home feel better.

For the children who are sensitive about not going away to a fancy location, perhaps teachers should rethink the “What I Did on My Vacation” writing assignment that seems to be the go-to when children return to school.

Children are resilient and know what their families can and cannot afford overall, and most children are usually more accepting of their situation than we are as observers looking on.

Keep up your great work on behalf of our children and enjoy the break!

-Etti

Our students are going to have to deal with feelings of jealousy every year and in every season unless they learn to be happy for the good fortune of others and accept and make the best of the situation they were given.

Dear Observing Teacher, Thank you! You care so much!

Please accept my thank you on behalf of all parents everywhere. People get busy, but everyone is really appreciative of all you do for our precious charges.

Yes, it is very difficult to watch the gap, yet it is a reality.

Winter vacation means that some children will be traveling to far-flung and exotic locations, some will take day trips with their families or go visit relatives, and others will be home.

Knowing this, as a teacher, I would work on gratefulness with my students in various and different lessons and remind them that what they are doing (day to day, not just during vacation) is usually not up to them but viewing the time as positive or negative is. I would remind them that vacation means a break from school. I would prepare fun booklets for children who wanted them and

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

Do Fad Diets Work?

By Tehila Levine-Soskel, RDN, CDN

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ad diets are often enticing, with promises of quick weight loss and not much effort. The truth is, when it comes to weight loss, slow and steady does, in fact, win the race. Unfortunately, fad diets have gained much popularity over the years, with not much promising long-lasting results. While there is great allure to trying these fad diets, they are usually not sustainable long term. Let’s discuss the reasons why these fad diets don’t work and how to focus on a balanced lifestyle.

First and foremost, one significant reason why these diets don’t work is because they are unsustainable. Yes, you will most probably lose weight quickly by being in severe calorie restriction or eliminating certain food groups but doing so is not healthy nor sustainable long term.

When you deprive your body of crucial nutrients, it can lead to fatigue, nutrient deficiencies, slowed metabolism – which makes it much harder to maintain weight loss – and other serious health conditions. Furthermore, the more you restrict yourself from food, the greater the chance you will crave it. Completely cutting out certain foods will make you want it more.

Besides, what fun would it be to remove your favorite foods? That would certainly take away the pleasure of enjoying it mindfully.

Moderation is a crucial aspect of a balanced diet. Focusing on mindful eating and portion control is much more beneficial than eliminating entire food groups.

Your body needs carbohydrates, proteins, fat, vitamins, and minerals to promote a healthy well-being.

Instead of focusing on all the things you should be eliminating from your diet, focus on what you can add in. Do you have a few servings of fruits and vegetables each day? If not, try adding a new vegetable with each meal. Shifting your mindset to what you can be adding into your diet can be very helpful and more enjoyable. Incorporate more wholesome, unprocessed foods into your diet. Think more fresh fruits and vegetables instead

of fruit leathers and processed snacks.

More so, incorporate whole grains, lean proteins and healthy fats to help provide the essential nutrients we need without the added sugars, salts, and additives so often found in processed foods. Focusing on nutrient-dense options not only helps support weight management but also helps to contribute to our overall health.

meals or experimenting with new flavors.

Don’t let yourself get bored of the same foods, unless, of course, you don’t mind eating those same foods every day.

Move your body. You don’t need to be doing intense workouts every day to improve your health. According to the American Heart Association, adults should aim for an average of 150 minutes

Focusing on mindful eating and portion control is much more beneficial than eliminating entire food groups.

Staying consistent with your meals is crucial for maintaining optimal blood sugar levels, helping to prevent bloating and indigestion. Try eating breakfast within two hours of waking up in the morning. Additionally, aiming to eat every three to four hours can help with keeping your hunger at bay, consistent blood sugar levels, and overall health.

Moreover, keep mealtimes fun. Try incorporating a new recipe for one of your

per week of moderate intensity aerobic activity spread throughout the week. Exercising regularly has so many positive effects on our body including better sleep quality, stronger bones, and improved mental health.

Proper hydration is essential to your overall health. From helping your body maintain proper temperature to lubricating your joints, drinking enough water is key. While you may be less thirsty

during the winter as you would be on hotter days, you must not forget to drink.

Try adding fresh fruit, mint, or cucumber slices to your water if you are getting bored of drinking plain water. Additionally, eat foods with high water contents like watermelon, strawberries, broccoli, and celery to help you stay hydrated. If you are forgetting to drink water, then setting reminders or carrying around a water bottle can be helpful.

Having a healthy relationship around food is extremely important.

Unfortunately, many of the fad diets out there lead to a not-so-healthy relationship with food which is the last thing you want or need. Having strict rules around food can lead to cycles of restriction and overindulgence. A positive relationship with food involves understanding your body’s hunger and fullness cues, choosing foods that satisfy and nourish you, and realizing that occasional indulgences are part of a normal balanced lifestyle.

While fad diets may sound enticing from their promising results, understand that the results are often unsustainable and can lead to long-term health issues.

You might obtain your goals in the short term, but what good is that if it does not last? For weight management to be effective, it is important to incorporate a balanced lifestyle that includes a wide range of nutrient-dense foods. Focus on moderation, whole unprocessed foods, and a positive relationship with eating for sustainable results and overall well-being.

Always consult with a Registered Dietitian or your healthcare provider for personal guidance. This is not intended to diagnose or treat medical conditions.

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

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Dual Loyalty

By Miriam Liebermann, MSW

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may be at the famed Amen group nice and early, but I always leave by 8:55.

Others remain to complete Shacharis or to socialize a bit, but I’m rushing out.

Why? Dual loyalty. For the last 15 years or so, I’ve been part of a phone group that meets every morning at 9, led by my very dear friend Gali. Tehillim, shmiras halashon, the weekly parsha…within 15 minutes, we cover it all. How can I leave my dear old friends? I’m trying to do it all, embrace the new, whilst holding tightly to the old. We moved to Lawrence three years ago. Thank G-d, it’s been a wonderful move on many accounts. However, relocating is still not a simple matter, not by any means. We want it all!

We spent Shabbos in Lakewood with our children. We had planned initially to stay over Sunday eve to join Sheva Brachos hosted by our dear mechutanim…and possibly even to stay over Monday, which was New Years Day, to join the chuppah of dear friends from our former hometown, the West Side of Manhattan.

But we ended up heading home late Sunday afternoon and missed two simchas, most regrettably. But life was calling. Important details to be tended to at home.

At times, I feel like a child. It’s so frustrating. I’m disappointed. I’d love

to attend all the simchas, but the reality is that I simply cannot do so. That’s the new reality.

My dear mother would say, “You can’t dance at two weddings at one time.”

How right she was! It’s just not within the realm of possibility for me right now. Honestly, I’m not even dancing at one wedding these days! I’m not a night person. I’m an early-to-bed, early-torise type of person. The late nights don’t work for me. And driving at night I find very unpleasant, downright scary. The majority of weddings these days seem to be celebrated in Lakewood, which is quite a distance away. Driving back to Lawrence from Lakewood, late at night, is not an option for us anymore. And the noise level at our simchas is absolutely too much for me.

I was always supersensitive to the bombardment of the high-volume music.

Years ago, I joined a dear friend, Raizy Lebovics of Riverdale, in introducing a new initiative with the creation of the “Safe Music Providers Program.” We posted letters to our community papers.

We contacted professionals, encouraging them to write articles citing the damage being done by high-decibel music. We did quite a bit of consciousness raising.

We recruited musicians who agreed to keep the volume lowered, using a decibel meter to monitor the volume throughout the wedding. Several of our popular musicians did sign up, but the paying customers did not materialize. Perhaps we should have invested in more publicity.

But that’s history. In the meantime, the music has become progressively louder.

Hearing damage is permanent and progressive. The music bombardment begins, and we leave. Our hearing is a precious gift, not to be squandered or sacrificed.

So how do I keep up with my former neighbors, friends, shul mates, classmates? How do I connect to my new neighbors and friends? It’s a real conflict. I cherish my space and privacy.

Serenity is more attractive for me than commotion and travel.

Many are relocating these days. How do we maintain earlier relationships whilst investing time and energy into new relationships? Few talk about this issue.

I’m talking. This is the reality for many.

Our circles, ka”h, keep growing larger and larger. At some point, we make decisions, we prioritize, each according to his/her needs. For many, it’s family above all. For others, it’s more crucial to invest

effort in cultivating new friends, in their new locale, rather than keeping up with the older friends, the old gang. Can we do it all? We can certainly try.

Of course, there are those friends whom we’ll always feel connected to.

Decades fly by. We meet by chance, and we’re right back where we left off. And then there are myriads of acquaintances, whom we’ve connected with over the years and whom we’re really fond of.

Letting go is not a simple matter.

Couples sell their summer homes, no longer willing to drive the long distances. Transitions. Changes. Adventures. I now realize that letting go involves further expansion. We let go so that we can embark upon the next leg of the journey. New experiences, novel vistas, new friendships. Let’s see where life takes us. Or rather, let’s see where G-d sends us. All is ordained from Above. May we all soon find ourselves in Yerushalayim Habenuya, b’karov b’yameinu. It’s a grand adventure, to be sure!

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

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School of

Thought

A Carnivore’s Tour of Kosher Steakhouses

By Barbara Deutsch

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nce upon a time, during the late 1960s, there were just a handful of restaurants that were considered kosher in New York; this city held the predominant number of kosher Jews who would need or want to eat glatt kosher. It was Schmulka Bernstein’s (Lower East Side), delicious and meat; Famous Dairy (two in Brooklyn), pretty good; Farm Food (Midtown), fair and dairy; and Ratner’s (Lower East Side), good and dairy. There were probably a couple of more, but I forget their names and level of kashrut.

A common thread for all of them was that they all had eccentric waiters; some with shaky hands. Schmulka Bernstein’s was the only restaurant that was closed on Shabbos. In the olden days, many of my ilk did not care if the restaurant was open as there were really no options and people wanted a place to go or celebrate milestones and special occasions. Actually, some of the more modern orthodox would indulge in all dairy and even eat hard cheese; Kraft Cheese products were considered okay.

Some people would even eat double and triple wrapped fish in any restaurant, especially when on vacation or on business trips in foreign destinations.

There were no kosher pizza shops until Chopsie’s opened near YU; later, it opened to lines that twisted around the block in Crown Heights.

Moshe Peking, in the city, was the first all-kosher Chinese restaurant; Bernstein’s soon added a Chinese menu to its delicious food options. American Jews and Chinese food is a story unto itself.

Fast forward to 2024; we embarked on a steak- and hamburger-filled carnivore tour with our Canadian children and grandchildren during their recent winter visit. It was a real treat for most of them (one of our grandsons only eats dairy). In Toronto, they have limited options and choices. In most neighborhoods populated by kosher eaters, at best, there may be a handful of pizza shops, a grill, and if lucky,

a “fancy” place with tablecloths.

In the Five Towns, and just on Central Ave (forgive any oversights, please), there are nine meat eateries; the rumor is that the famous Miami Fuego is opening soon. On the surrounding blocks and along the tracks, there are at least three more. Then there are about 10 dairy places and three pizza stores. I may have missed a few here or there, but I think that have made my point.

There is food for every palate and wallet.

I’m not such a big fan of steakhouses, though I ought to be as I don’t tolerate dairy, so this food tour was not in the best interest of my digestive system. But no one can accuse me of being a bad sport. And my kids were mostly paying, so I threw caution to the wind and my stomach into the adventure.

The Canadians went to six restaurants across the city and Long Island. My husband and I joined them for four – one in Brooklyn, two on Long Island, and one in Manhattan. They all served steaks and hamburgers and hard drinks and were expensive.

I love a good espresso martini.

Three out of the four had excellent service and were each in the range of being very good to excellent. Sadly, the last stop, was a huge disappointment; ironically, this was the one in which we had planned to pick up the tab.

At 5:00 p.m., after a fun game at Escape the Room, we made our way into this upscale-looking place. The decor was pristine and elegant, and there were very crisp looking tablecloths on the multiple tables.

At 5:00 p.m., there was no one in there but the eight of us.

We sat down and waited for our waiter.

We waited some more. Soon, a pleasant and helpful looking server came to our table. He wrote down our order, checking twice. The prime menu item for this place is the Tomahawk Steak for two priced at $265.00, but

it actually feeds four.

Sounds like a lot of money but it is actually a huge steak, almost the back of a cow, and it’s food for four people; this was the closing meal for the Carnivore Tour of 2024.

We still were the only people in the room. We had been told that the steak takes 30 minutes start to finish; in anticipation, we had ordered robustly from the appetizer menu. We waited. We waited some more, and still had no food. Slowly, a few plates began to emerge, only a few of them things that we had actually ordered.

Some of the appetizers never showed up at all.

The water was plentiful, and as there is no better water for me than New York City tap water over ice with lemon wedges, I was happy. The water kept coming.

Finally, the Tomahawk Steak came out sizzling. Upon seeing its size, my daughter questioned, “Is this supposed to feed four people?”

The steak was distributed among the boys, and it seems that most of the meat was, in fact, fat.

Fat? Confronted with the dilemma of what to do, I called over the waiter, pointed to the steak and “politely” expressed my disappointment. He responded with a pained expression and left to get the manager.

When the waiter returned to the table, he nervously explained that the manager had offered to substitute the steak with an additional hamburger. The hamburger is one eighth the price of the steak.

Anyone who is even just an acquaintance of mine knows that the fact that I did not leap out of my seat to choke the waiter will be shocked to know that my response was to quietly tell the waiter that that is not an acceptable solution.

The manager himself then came to the table and explained in the most patient and patronizing way all the parts of the cow to us. He further told us that the

placement and amount of fat on a steak is determined by which part of the cow lands on the patron’s plate. He then upped his offer and told us he would take half off the price of the steak; after all, we had eaten half the steak.

At this point and in my furiously quiet principal’s voice – the lower my voice, the angrier I am –I told him how we had been to the best kosher restaurants on Long Island and the city this past week, how our family had looked forward to this meal, and how disappointed I was in how we were being treated.

The Tomahawk Steak was removed from the bill.

After listening to this exchange, my sonin-law told me that he was impressed that I did not lose my cool. So was I. Through the years, I have figured out that once I get justice, there is no more that needs to be said. I had made my point, and it was time to move on.

That dinner was a bummer but not a spoiler. The Carnivore Tour was a huge success. And the failed dinner was surprisingly affordable.

The month of January in our family is filled with milestones and special occasions. Our silver simcha calendar with special dates is dense with the dates. It’s been so much fun to sit at the table and have the waitstaff come out with sparklers and singing birthday wishes.

We must continue to note and celebrate the good times when and wherever we can.

We are living through complicated and difficult times. When opportunity presents celebration, grab it; lucky us, we are no longer limited by the choices.

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

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In The K tchen

Rack of Ribs

By Naomi Nachman

If you are looking to serve a piece of meat that makes a stunning presentation, this is it. I served it on a large platter as part of a buffet that I had prepared for a large dinner party that I was hosting. I served it whole and placed it on a carving board with a knife and carving fork next to it so people could slice their own pieces. The meat was as soft as butter and cut so easily.

All that was left after dinner was a pile of bones!

Ingredients

◦ 1 large rack ribs ◦ 1 large onion, sliced ◦ 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil ◦ 6 cloves garlic, crushed ◦ 1 teaspoon kosher salt ◦ ½ teaspoon crushed black pepper ◦ 1 teaspoon paprika ◦ 1 teaspoon onion powder ◦ 1 teaspoon cumin ◦ 1 cup ketchup ◦ 1 cup red wine ◦ Fresh chopped parsley

Preparation

1. Preheat oven to 450°F. 2. Place sliced onion into a roasting pan. Place meat atop onion.

3. In a small bowl, combine oil, garlic, salt, and spices, mixing them together to

form a paste.

4. Rub the paste all over the meat.

5. In a separate bowl, combine wine and ketchup; pour mixture over meat. Place pan into oven.

6. Bake at 450°F, uncovered, for 20 minutes to brown the meat. Then lower the oven temperature to 325°F. Cover the meat; cook for 3 hours.

7. Remove from oven. Allow roast to cool; then slice it. Pour pan juices over meat to serve.

8. Garnish with parsley before serving.

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

The Jewish Home | JANUARY 18, 2024

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Mind Y

ur Business

A Guide to Real Estate Brokerage

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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.

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ince 2015, Yitzchok Saftlas has been speaking with leading industry experts on the “Mind Your Business” show, sharing insightful business and marketing strategies.

In this article, we’re going all the way back to take a look at one of the very first editions of “Mind Your Business,” in which Yitzchok sat down to speak with Ira Zlotowitz, founder and president of Eastern Union Funding.

In this show, Zlotowitz drew from his experience as a commercial mortgage broker to share the most important information you need to know when entering the real estate market.

Commercial vs. residential real estate At its most basic level, residential real estate relates specifically to homes, while commercial essentially refers to any prop-

erty aside from a home. The average person probably buys one home in their lifetime, and they take out a mortgage with the goal to pay it off as fast as possible.

Generally, unless the rates go down, they never look to refinance. On the commercial side of the business, the typical person who is buying a piece of real estate owns multiple properties. They’re always looking to borrow as much as they can, so that they can buy more real estate. So, if I, as a commercial real estate broker, pick up a new client, I can grow with that client and do a refinance every couple of years when they cash out, irrelevant to the interest rate. They don’t take a 30-year fixed mortgage; they take a 5-year fixed mortgage.

Because of that, the interest rate is basically like an adjustable. It’s a 30-year payout, but every 5-10 years, they refinance. That is the core difference between commercial and residential real estate. It’s the mindset of the borrower.

The value of a broker The main value a real estate broker provides for property owners is the relationships they have with banks and lenders, to know at any given time who’s hot, who’s aggressive, who needs to put out money at what rates and terms, and all other areas of the business. My company actually conducted a survey that asked owners: “Why do you use mortgage brokers?” Ten percent said, “I use a broker for two reasons. First, they get me the upfront value. They know how to present the package to get me the best rate. Second, they guide me all the way to the closing, which I need help to get to.” Fifty percent said, “I don’t use a broker. I see that there is value, because brokers know which banks are

hot, but the savings don’t justify the fee.”

The other forty percent said, “The value is that brokers get me the best rate. So, once I’m using a broker, I have no choice. I stay till the end.” At the end of the day, across every opinion, 100% saw the value in using a broker to get them the best rate. That’s the core value a broker provides.

Strategic negotiation When negotiating a deal with a lender, you want to pick your battles for the parts that are really important. Sometimes, a client will give me a list of 20 items they want to negotiate. I tell them that they are just going to wear themselves out and lose momentum on the deal. These deals are like a 10-year relationship. At some point in those 10 years, you’re going to have a problem and want something from the lender, but you need to pick those requests carefully. You first need to ask yourself if this is what you really want. If you make too many requests from the lender, this could give them the upper hand in negotiations further down the line. When negotiating, you want to be able to sense that line where you’re irritating the other the party and asking too much. Step back from the minute details and look at the impact of your ask in the scope of the entire deal to determine if it’s really worth clinging to.

Preparing for any scenario In the 1950s, ExxonMobil supposedly held a retreat for all of their executives.

Oil was trading at about $50 a barrel at the time. The president of the company got up and said, “I’m dividing you up into groups of three. One-third of you are going to write a business plan, assuming oil goes to $90 a barrel. One-third will write a plan

for if it stays at $50. The final third will write a plan for if it went to $20.” At the end of the retreat, he put the three business plans into his desk drawer and life went on.

But, when the embargo came, oil went up to $89 a barrel. They were the only business that had a thought-out business plan on how to execute in this scenario. Later, when everything was cleaned up and oil went down to $20, they had still a plan.

Whether you’re in real estate or any other business, you need to be prepared for every scenario. We run analysis all the time to determine our cost per submission and develop a plan for if it goes up or down. Lenders will do the same. They use a stress test to determine what will happen if interest rates change in either direction.

Staying ahead When people that have been in the business for a long time tell you this is just the way things are, you know that there is a big change coming. You have to be able to anticipate these changes if you don’t want to follow the path of those replaced by innovative companies like Uber and Netflix. You want to be a part of that innovation. Mortgage data is so much more readily available to everyone now due to technology. Remember that the main value a broker brings a borrower is knowing the banks, but now anyone can find the information they’re looking for online. More and more clients are going direct, purchasing properties without a broker. So, if you want to stay ahead in the real estate world, you need to know how to really leverage any new technology and information.

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Notable Quotes “Say What?!”

Has anyone of you come to see apartheid in this country? It doesn’t exist, you idiots!

- An emotional Thomas Hand, originally from Ireland, whose 9-year-old daughter is a freed hostage, in an interview on Piers Morgan Uncensored, responding to the allegation that Israel is an apartheid state

Come to any hospital or school in this country, come to any city in this country. You will find Arabs, female Arabs who are professors, doctors.

– Ibid.

Come look at all the roadsides – it’s in Hebrew, it’s in Arabic, and it’s in English. If it were apartheid, you wouldn’t do that.

- Ibid.

And you’re all chanting “From the River to the Sea,” you don’t know what river, you don’t know your history, you don’t know your geography.

- Ibid.

You’re worried that you can’t pay your bills? Wait ‘til he — the other guy — becomes president, and you won’t have to worry about it because you’ll be in some camp somewhere.

- Whoopi Goldberg on “The View” having a severe episode of TDS and claiming that if elected, Trump will round people up and put them in concentration camps

Terror apologists scream at cancer patients because they were helped by a guy who donated to a cancer center. Pretty clear who the monsters are here.

- Tweet by Dana Loesch, after pro-Palestinians purposely protested outside of Memorial Sloan Kettering’s pediatric cancer ward, with leaders encouraging protesters to make sure that the cancer patients hear them

You cannot post the images yourself because you have to remember, in Canada, we have a presumption of innocence and posting that picture could be a violation of private life.

- From a bulletin by Quebec police warning people not to post footage of thieves stealing packages off of their porches because it violates the thieves’ privacy rights

It was my emotional support water bottle and will continue to be.

- Chrishanna Juan, of New Mexico, after her Hydro Flask water bottle survived a car fire

We say a lot of things on this show — we don’t make up lies. In fact, we have a team of people who work very hard to sift through the facts and reputable sources before I make a joke, and that’s an important distinction. A joke about someone — even when that someone is Donald Trump. Even a person who lies from the minute he wakes up until the minute he’s smearing orange makeup on his MyPillow at night — even he deserves that consideration, and we give it to him. Because the truth still matters, and when I do get something wrong, which happens on rare occasions, you know what I do? I apologize for it, which is what Aaron Rodgers should do, which is what a decent person would do. But I bet he won’t. If he does, you know what I’ll do?

I’ll accept his apology and move on.

— Jimmy Kimmel’s self-controverting statement, after he was accused by Aaron Rogers of being involved in something that he was not actually involved in

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A man in Portland recently found a working iPhone along the side of a road that is believed to have been onboard the Alaskan Airlines plane that had a door plug blow off mid-flight. And, honestly, I’m not sure what’s scarier: having the door blow off your plane or losing your phone.

— Seth Meyers

U.S. media refusing to carry Trump speech live last night after a historic Iowa victory is exactly how undemocratic regimes abroad use state-run media to try to delegitimize, dismiss & discredit their political opposition.

- Marcio Rubio in a tweet

It sort of just appeared.

- Dr. Fauci when asked in a closed-door hearing at Congress this week when asked how 6 feet of social distancing came about during Covid

I can’t recall.

– Dr. Fauci’s response to over 100 questions during the closeddoor hearing

For his dishonesty, frankly, he should go to prison. Do you think the scientific knowledge that was gained from this research was worth the deaths of 20 million people?

- Sen. Rand Paul (R- KY) talking about Dr. Fauci, in an interview on 770 WABC

It looked like the virus came from the lab. But the lab only was able to function because the U.S. funded it and Anthony Fauci approved of it.

This is probably the worst decision ever made by a public health official in the history of time.

- Ibid.

UN condemns Israel for shooting down 50 innocent Gaza rockets this morning.

- Tweet by Liron Kopinsky

Do you want to fly in an airplane where they prioritized DEI hiring over your safety? That is actually happening.

- Tweet by Elon Musk, which included a screenshot of Boeing’s 2022 proxy statement stating that climate and diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) will be considered in hiring decisions

Well, when you look at it, we are one of the highest-taxed states in the country outside of California, and you have to find the right balance.

The last numbers that I checked, in New York City in general, 2% of New Yorkers pay 51% of our taxes. We’re seeing a hemorrhaging of, not only working-class people, but we’re concerned about losing that high tax base, because that tax base pays for our police officers, our teachers, our firefighters, keeps our streets clean.

- Mayor Eric Adamas on WCNY acknowledging that New York State’s tax policy is causing people to flee the state

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Who [is Israel] really fighting? It’s a group of cowards. They hide in tunnels. They hide behind civilians. They attack, kill, and mutilate children, women. Stop talking about “proportion.”

- Sen. John Fetterman at a Capitol Hill luncheon with the OU

Now that we’re talking about “genocide,” and now South Africa is bringing that to trial? Maybe South Africa oughta sit this one out.

- Ibid.

If you haven’t figured it out already, it is now abundantly clear that @realDonaldTrump is going to crush @POTUS. - From a tweet by hedge-fund manager Bill Ackman

We need immigrants to this country. Forget the fact that our vegetables would rot in the ground if they weren’t being picked by many immigrants, many illegal immigrants.

- Rep. Jerry Nadler (D-NY)

COVID is raging in Gaza, further disabling the vulnerable population there who is being slammed with variants cooked up in the USA by many people like you guys who won’t even advocate for masking in grocery stores so disabled PPL can safely purchase food.

– Washington Post columnist Taylor Lorenz

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Political Crossfire

The Path to Peace in the Mideast Could Be Paved by Fuzzy Language

By David Ignatius

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ecretary of State Antony Blinken decided to try something different last week on his fourth trip to the Middle East since the Gaza war exploded in October. Rather than stopping first in Israel, as he often does, he began by visiting Arab capitals.

Blinken was hoping to gather some bargaining chips that might persuade Israel to move toward peace, and he got what he wanted from the Arabs. Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman and other key leaders pledged they would support a postwar reconstruction of Gaza – and normalize relations with Israel – but only if Israel ended the conflict in Gaza and committed to a process for creating a future Palestinian state in the West Bank and Gaza.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu didn’t agree to either demand.

So, in that respect, Blinken’s gambit failed. But knowledgeable U.S. and Israeli sources say the diplomatic situation could be more promising than it might appear. Speculating about positive

outcomes in the Middle East is often a mistake, but let’s consider some of the factors at work behind the scenes.

Blinken knows he’s negotiating with an Israel still badly shaken by Hamas’s Oct. 7 terrorist attack. That’s why he laid out the Arabs’ proposal to a broad audience – not just to Netanyahu but also individually with each member of Israel’s war cabinet. And he explained it in a news conference to a traumatized Israeli public that’s deeply skeptical about a Palestinian state.

Here’s the core question: Is the opportunity for Saudi normalization – and the united front against Iran that it would encourage in the region – the proverbial “offer you can’t refuse”? Netanyahu’s right-wing government would rebel if he even hinted at support for a two-state solution. But Israelis who know Netanyahu well say he might pay that political cost to gain the prize of Saudi normalization that he’s been chasing for years. Battered by the Gaza war, Netanyahu’s career is finished – unless

he finds a way to repair his ruined legacy.

Israeli officials tried to answer Blinken’s push for a quick de-escalation in Gaza by pledging to move into a new phase of “lower intensity” combat that should mean fewer civilian casualties and more humanitarian aid. They plan to reduce Israel Defense Forces’ presence inside Gaza from 21 brigades at the war’s outset to four or five by next month. That’s partly because of international pressure but also because they’ve already hammered Hamas. Officials estimate that more than half of Hamas’s 24 battalions no longer operate and that more than 60 percent of its battalion and company commanders have been killed.

Israeli won’t yet allow Palestinian civilians to return to northern Gaza, arguing that Hamas fighters are still active there. The Israelis fear this remnant could meld into the returning civilian population – triggering renewed heavy combat and, perhaps, another forced evacuation. Better to wait, they contend.

But to get ready, Israel has agreed to allow

a U.N. team to make a detailed survey of water, sewage, health and housing needs in northern Gaza, starting immediately.

Israel also claims it’s working with international aid agencies to create a large refugee camp south of Gaza City to house some of the hundreds of thousands who fled south to Rafah, on the Egyptian border. To provide more humanitarian assistance without the inspection bottlenecks at existing land crossings, Israel and other countries are exploring delivering more aid from ships.

Blinken is said to have responded that these Israeli de-escalation steps aren’t enough. Israel plans to continue airstrikes and shelling of some targets in southern Gaza, but Blinken said in a news conference this week that the civilian toll is “far too high.” Israeli sources concede that they’re still killing one Palestinian civilian for every Hamas fighter they take out. The Biden administration wants Israel to focus on Hamas’s high-value targets.

The future battlespace in Gaza is

groups, trade unions, clans and employees of the Palestinian Authority, which Netanyahu rejects but whose role might be inescapable. The United States has been training Authority security forces for nearly two decades and wants them to oversee the Gaza transition. Netanyahu should welcome that plan but, so far, he hasn’t.

sponded by pounding Hezbollah targets, killing more than 160 fighters and driving the militia several miles back from the border. But Israel demands a real buffer zone, created through a diplomatic agreement or, if necessary, military force.

The Biden administration is scrambling to craft a deal that would send the

Is the opportunity for Saudi normalization – and the united front against Iran that it would encourage in the region – the proverbial “offer you can’t refuse”?

As the Gaza war begins to recede, Israel is sending some of its troops north to the Lebanese border, where its forces have been trading fire with the Iranbacked Hezbollah militia. The Hezbollah threat has driven about 80,000 Israelis from northern towns. The IDF has re-

Lebanese Army into this buffer and defuse the border crisis. Amos Hochstein, a White House aide, has been shuttling between Beirut and Jerusalem, and Israeli officials think a diplomatic settlement is possible. Hezbollah leader Hasan Nasrallah hinted that he might support such

a deal in a speech last week.

With Mohammed bin Salman’s offer on the table, the question is how to get to yes. Diplomats are skilled at devising language that fuzzes, say, the process of transition to a Palestinian state or the definition of the interim governing entity in Gaza. We can expect some fuzzy language ahead, but that won’t soften the hard choices.

But what’s really needed is international momentum that drives Israelis and Palestinians toward the right outcome. The Biden administration is planning soon to form “coordination groups” to facilitate Gaza reconstruction and regional peace among the moderate Arab states and the Group of Seven advanced democracies. That’s a good step to keep this ball rolling.

There’s one more inescapable pressure: A U.S. presidential election will take place in November, which means that Blinken – and all those who favor the administration’s effort to end the Gaza war and normalize relations between Israel and the Arabs – might have a short window of time to get there. (c) 2024, Washington Post Writers Group

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underground, in Hamas’s vast network of tunnels. Israeli officials recognize that they initially underestimated this “Gaza metro,” as it’s called, which they now reckon zigs and zags more than 300 miles under a strip that’s just 25 miles long and 7 miles wide. The Israelis say they have finally mapped this underground empire, thanks to captured computer diagrams, interrogations of Hamas members who helped build the tunnels, and new listening and location technology.

Israelis warn that the siege of the tunnels could continue for months. The IDF has capped many of the shafts with emulsions known as “sponge bombs” that form a permanent chemical barrier. They’re developing other exotic tools to help them find Hamas leaders Yahya Sinwar and Mohammed Deif and others.

U.S. officials know that Israel isn’t likely to stop fighting until those planners of Oct. 7 are dead.

Who will maintain order in Gaza as Israeli troops withdraw? That might be the weakest link in this planning chain.

As Hamas is diminished, Israel plans to work with an ad hoc governance network of local municipal councils, business

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Political Crossfire

Austin’s Dereliction Undermined the Crucial Chain of Command

By Marc A. Thiessen

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n 2002, my then-boss, Defense Secretary Donald H. Rumsfeld, became concerned that the National Security Council was issuing orders, taskings and guidance directly to U.S. military combatant commanders in the field.

That authority belonged solely to President George W. Bush, to be delivered solely to Rumsfeld and on to uniformed officers. So, he sent one of his famous “snowflakes” – short memos he dictated to staff and colleagues – to national security adviser Condoleezza Rice.

“You and the NSC staff need to understand that you are not in the chain of command,” Rumsfeld wrote. “Since you cannot seem to accept that fact, my only choices are to go to the President and ask him to tell you to stop or to tell anyone in DoD not to respond to you or the NSC staff. I have decided to take the latter course. If it fails, I’ll have to go to the President. One way or the other, it will stop, while I am Secretary of Defense. Thanks.”

This was not a matter of preference; it was a matter of law – a law that has come into renewed focus in light of Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin’s failure to inform the White House, Congress or his own deputy that he was hospitalized and incapacitated at a time when the U.S. military was carrying out a strike against an Iran-backed militia while under ongoing attack in Iraq, Syria and the Red Sea. In 1986, Congress passed the Goldwater-Nichols Act, a sweeping reorganization of the military structure which states, “Unless otherwise directed by the President, the chain of command to a unified or specified combatant command runs – (1) from the President to the Secretary of Defense; and (2) from the Secretary of Defense to the commander of the combatant command.”

Former national security adviser Stephen Hadley provided some context for

the Rumsfeld memo in a 2011 interview for the University of Virginia’s oral history project. Bush “would have a tendency to say, ‘I’ve decided that you should call Gates,’ or ‘Call Rumsfeld,’ and I would say, ‘Mr. President, I’m not in the chain of command,” Hadley said. “You’ve got a phone there. Pick up and hit that third line and you’ll have Don Rumsfeld. You

ways be in the city” to preserve the chain of command.

Austin should know all about the chain of command. As Rumsfeld wrote in his book “Rumsfeld’s Rules,” “in every case those in the senior ranks of leadership have worked their way up from the lower positions. Every three- or four-star officer once was a junior officer with a single gold

What if the president said “get me the secretary of defense” – but no one at the White House knew where he was?

ought to give that order to him directly.’”

If someone else tried to pass on an order from the president, Rumsfeld would remind them they were not in the chain of command. And I vividly recall that he directed his staff to make certain that he and Deputy Secretary Paul Wolfowitz “will not be out of the city of Washington, D.C., at the same time. One of us will al-

bar on his or her collar.” That includes Austin, who received orders down the chain of command as a second lieutenant and eventually a four-star general, before passing down the president’s orders as the civilian leader of the Pentagon.

While he was incapacitated this month, the U.S. military carried out an airstrike in Baghdad that killed a high-ranking

commander of an Iran-backed militia.

I asked White House spokesman John Kirby how the order was given if Austin had been in the intensive care unit since Jan. 1. Kirby responded that the president gave the order to Austin on Christmas Day (leaving the decision on when to pull the trigger to the combatant commander).

That answer deserves examination by Congress. And it does not excuse Austin’s failure to disclose his incapacity to the president, the national security adviser or Congress. Austin did not even transfer his responsibilities in the chain of command to Deputy Defense Secretary Kathleen Hicks, who was vacationing in Puerto Rico, until Jan. 2, and even then, he only transferred “certain operational responsibilities that require constant secure communications capabilities.”

What if something had gone wrong?

What if Iran had retaliated, necessitating rapid decisions on how to respond? What if the president said “get me the secretary of defense” – but no one at the White House knew where he was? The fact that Austin disappeared for so long while no one at the White House noticed does not speak well of President Biden’s engagement with his defense secretary – especially at a time when Iranian-backed terrorists are launching almost daily attacks on U.S. forces, and American partners and allies are fighting major wars on two continents with support from the U.S. military.

The reason the chain of command exists, as Rumsfeld explained, is that it allows our troops to “know from whom they must take orders and to whom they must give them. Where there is no continuity there can be no accountability.”

Austin’s failure to disclose his illness was a dereliction of duty – and now he needs to be held accountable. (c) 2024, Washington Post Writers Group

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Forgotten Her es

Jewish Heroes in Battle

By Avi Heiligman

Medals and war memorabilia from Jack Haynes

T

he purpose of veteran organizations varies, but the main goal is to help those who served in the military receive benefits and care that they may need. The Jewish War Veterans of the United States has additional goals of publicizing the contributions of its members, fighting antisemitism, and supporting Israel. The organization was established in 1896 by 63 Jewish Civil War veterans who were pushing back on statements that Jews did not contribute to the war effort.

Over the years, the Jewish War Veterans organization has publicized many stories of their members.

Jack Hayne was born in Brooklyn in 1924 and was drafted into the army in 1943. He served in the coast artillery, anti-aircraft, field artillery and infantry and was with the small arms research and development unit at the Aberdeen Proving Grounds. In 1945, he was accepted into the U.S. Military Academy at West Point after receiving a slot from Congressman Harry Sheppard of California. While there, he joined the fencing team and together with other Jewish cadets was able to attend services. Hayne graduated in 1949 and was in Korea from August 1950 to March 1952. While there, he was assigned to the 76th Anti Aircraft Artillery Battalion – SP (Self Propelled), and his battery made it as far north as Sinanju, Anju, and Kunuri in North Korea. Jack was at the Yalu River when the Chinese entered the war.

After three and a half months in Korea, he was promoted to 1st lieutenant. Making Captain, Jack was a NATO instructor

Reuel Dankner with his Silver Star medal

in Bavaria, Germany, in the early ‘60s. He stayed with the army until retiring in 1964 and worked for Grumman as a project engineer until 1988. The veteran of two wars was awarded several medals and citations for his outstanding service in the army.

Jack Hayne will be turning 100 this month, and TJH would like to wish this treasured veteran a very happy birthday!

Carl Gochman hailed from Philadelphia and joined the 87 th Infantry Division after the Army Air Corps rejected him due to color blindness. He trained on mortars with Company I, 3rd Battalion, 347 th Infantry Regiment and first saw combat in southern France capturing forts. He became a squad leader after directing mortar fire on a Nazi machine gun nest that was pinning down American troops. The enemy position was destroyed, and Gochman was awarded the Bronze Star. His unit attacked pillboxes on the Siegfried Line but soon Allies had to deal with one last unexpected push from the Germans. (Allied intelligence failed to pick up on the impending offensive, and American units on the front lines suffered heavy losses.) On December 16, 1944, the Battle of the Bulge began, and Gochman’s unit was attached to General Patton’s Third Army to beat back the German offensive.

They were sent by truck to St. Vith, Belgium, and Gochman knocked out two Tiger tanks with a Bazooka anti-tank rocket launcher. The Allies began a counteroffensive and soon crossed the Rhine River.

Reuel Dankner was born in New York, and his family moved to Israel when he was nine years old. They lived in Petach Tik-

Reuel Dankner, top right, with his family

va and soon a young Reuel was recruited into the Haganah. He was a part of a unit formed by British officer Orde Wingate called the Special Night Squads at Kvar Yonah. Wingate trained them on how to fight unconventionally, and they used Morse Code to communicate from the top of water towers. Then, in 1940, Dankner’s family decided to move back to the U.S. The trip was arduous as they had to dodge U-boats and made many stops including in Brazil before landing in New York. The boat they had traveled on, the ZamZam, was sunk by a U-boat just a few days later while making a return trip.

In June 1942, Dankner joined the American army and soon joined the 58th Armored Field Artillery Battalion. The unit set sail for Casablanca in French Morocco where he worked for intelligence units. Throughout his travels Dankner had picked up Arabic as well as Yiddish and German, and he was able to walk around the city listening to the locals. One Friday afternoon,n he went looking for a shul and found one that was boarded up. A crowd had formed and told him that he couldn’t go in, but he told them that he was a Jew and ripped down the boards. Jewish citizens then came to the shul, and they davened together as siddurim and Sifrei Torah were brought out of their hiding places.

The battalion then went to Algeria and afterwards prepared to land in Sicily.

Dankner was the forward observer for his battery and flew over the beach in a Piper Cub to direct artillery fire on enemy positions. As they moved towards Palermo,

the unit ran into heavy resistance, and the Americans decided to perform a “leap frog” maneuver. They landed behind the enemy and tried to do it a second time but suffered heavy casualties. For this action, Dankner received the Purple Heart and the Silver Star, which was personally awarded by General Patton. The unit then moved to Italy but after a week was sent to England to prepare for the D-Day landings in France.

Dankner was one of the first to land on Omaha Beach on June 6, 1944, as he was the forward observer for the artillery. He was wounded during the Battle of St. Lo and after recovering in England was sent back to the front lines. This time, they were fighting during the Battle of the Bulge. In February 1945, Dankner was sent back to the U.S. to recuperate and went back to Fort Dix on May 6. The next day, the Nazis surrendered, and the war in Europe was over.

These are just three of the many Forgotten Heroes who are a part of the story of the Jewish War Veterans in the U.S.. In future articles, we will talk about more veterans so that their stories will be remembered.

The author thanks Mitch Hayne and Gary Glick for information on Jack Hayne (Mitch’s father) that was used in this article.

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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The Jewish Home | JANUARY 18, 2024

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SERVICES 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

ISRAEL REAL ESTATE JERUSALEM - LUXURY Mamilla Apartment for sale.

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HOUSES FOR SALE

HOUSES FOR SALE

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

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.

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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 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 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 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 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

LAWRENCE New to the market spacious 1 bedroom 1.5 bathroom condo, elevator building, central air conditioning, garage parking, 24hr doorman, many closets, kitchen with granite countertops, generous counter space, washer/dryer, minutes from shopping, park, transportation and houses of worship 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 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. Twocar garage. Mark Lipner Associate Broker Berkshire Hathaway Laffey International 516-298-8457 mlipner@ bhhslaffey.com

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HOUSES FOR SALE

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APT./COOP/CONDO SALE

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.

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

FAR ROCKAWAY New Construction Prime location Beach 9th & Hicksville 5 bedrooms, 4bathrooms, Eating kitchen, Dining room /living room , Laundry room, Large unfinished basement, Driveway and backyard 516-206-2005 ALLGOING Realty

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

WEST HEMPSTEAD Introducing a stunning new construction home. Nestled in a picturesque neighborhood. Large windows, open-concept layout that merges the various living spaces.

The expansive living room is bathed in natural light, thanks to the windows that offer great views of the surrounding area. Gourmet kitchen with top-of-the-line stainless steel appliances, sleek cabinetry, expansive center island with a breakfast bar.

Ample counter space and a welldesigned layout. Wonderful dining area providing. Large glass doors, spacious patio. Luxurious master suite with a spacious bedroom, a lavish ensuite bathroom and a large walk-in closet. Additional bedrooms.

High-end finishes, premium flooring, and custom details throughout. Call for pricing Mark Lipner Associate Broker Berkshire Hathaway Laffey International 516-298-8457 mlipner@bhhslaffey.com 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

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 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

LAWRENCE 5 Towns Home for Sale Amazing Location 60 Meadow, 5 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms.

Large den, Living Room/Dining Room. Kitchen + 2-car garage.

Near Shuls. Call or Text ALLGOING Realtor 516-206-2005.

359A Central Av Lawrence INWOOD New to Market Multi-family home for Sale multi-use/mix-use zoning Large rent roll Call 516--637-1973

LAWRENCE New to the market 2 bedroom 2 full bathrooms top floor elevator building, 24 hr doorman, open concept, totally renovated kitchen, granite counter tops, stainless steel appliances, 2 dishwashers, island, 2 new bathrooms, terrace, central air conditioning, u/g parking, high hats throughout, custom closets minutes to shopping, railroad, park, and houses of worship Mark Lipner Associate Broker Berkshire Hathaway Laffey International 516-2988457 mlipner@bhhslaffey.com

WOODMERE WOODMERE LAWRENCE WOODMERE WOODMERE LAWRENCE

WOODMERE CEDARHURST CEDARHURST WOODMERE FAR ROCKAWAY CEDARHURST

Quality New Construction!!!

Quality New Construction!!!

Spacious Wide Line Expanded Ranch onon Most Prestigious andand Stucco Col. with 2the Story Entry 9 ft Ceilings, Zone3Heat Heat which Spacious Line Expanded Ranch Most Prestigious Stucco Col. with 2in Story Entry 9of ft Ceilings, 1414Zone which New Mkt. Charming Colonial on Beautiful Tree 5To BR home heart Far Rockaway, Bths, EIK, Spacious SpaciousWide Split Level Home InInPrestigious Academy Split Level Home Prestigious Academy Serene Cul-de-Sac , Main FlrFlr Master Bdrm includes Radiant Heat, Anderson Windowswith withLots Lotsof ofNatural Natural Serene Cul-de-SacininVillage VillageofofLawrence Lawrence , Main Master Bdrm includes Radiant Heat, Anderson Windows FDR, Den, Foyer, Walk in Closet, 130 Deep Property.

Area.

Lg EIK, w/2 sinks, FLR/FDR, Attic, Lower lvl Den lined Street, Features FLR FDR, EIK, Den and Library OPEN HOUSE 3:00-4:30 223 Hickox Avenue OPEN HOUSE 12:30-1:30 1068 highland Suite with Many Closets and Bthrm, Addional Main Flr Bdrm &Den Bath, Area.

Lg EIK, w/2 sinks, Attic,Main Lower lvl OPEN HOUSE 3:00-4:30 223Eik Hickox Avenue Light Throughout, Flr Fdnr, Magnificent Chefs Eikwith withHigh HighEnd End OPEN HOUSE 12:30-1:30 1068 Suite with Many Closets andFLR/FDR, Bthrm, Addional Flr highland Bdrm & Bath, Light Throughout, Flr Fdnr, Magnificent Chefs Totally renovated Colonial.

Like New. High Ceilings, Chefs EIK,55 Center Hall Colonial with Main Level Den 3 BRs 3Bths Baths Finished Lg Flr Fdnr Huge Den, EIK, Mudrm, + 4 Bdrms 2 on Second Flr, Flr, $1.495M Fin Bsmt, Playroom & 2 add’l rooms, Oversized Prop.

Appliances, Dble Ovens , 6 Burner Cooktop with Pot Filler, Totally renovated Colonial.

Like New. High Ceilings, Chefs EIK, Large Primary Suite, Finished Basement in Prime Center Hall Colonial with Main Level Den 3 BRs 3 Baths Finished Lg Flr Fdnr Huge Den, EIK, 4 BdrmsOversized 2 Bths on Second Fin Bsmt, Playroom & 2Mudrm, add’l +rooms, Prop.

Appliances, DbleWoodmere Ovens , 6 location!

Burner Cooktop with Pot Filler, Bdrms.

Prime Basment Beautiful Property Beautiful Wrap Around Property, $1.690M 2 Dishwashers, and more.

Master Bdrm Suite with Luxurious Bath Basment Bdrms.

Prime Woodmere location!

Beautiful Property $1.1M Beautiful Wrap Around Property, $1.690M 2 Dishwashers, and more.

Master Bdrm Suite with Luxurious Bath Location $1.39M $1.659M $1.1M $999K and Walk in closet,+4 Bdrms and 2 Beautiful Bths ,2nd Flr

$1.659M and Walk in closet,+4 Bdrms and 2 Beautiful Bths ,2nd Flr Laundry Rm , Full Finished Basement with 10 ft Ceilings Huge Laundry Rm , Full Finished Basement with 10 ft Ceilings Huge Playrm 2 Bdrms and Bth laundry Rm storage, Beautiful Playrm 2 BdrmsGarden. and Bth laundry Rm storage, Beautiful Manicured Manicured Garden.

WOODSBURGH

WOODSBURGH CEDARHURST CEDARHURST CEDARHURST N. WOODMERE

$999K

CO-OPS/CONDOS CO-OPS/CONDOS WOODMERE CO-OP WOODMERE CO-OP CEDARHURST FAR ROCKAWAY

LAWRENCE

LAWRENCE 261 Central Ave 1st Floor, Large Entry Foyer, Open Concept Kitchen.

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

Large LR/DR Overlooking the Courtyard $229K

LAWRENCE

240 Central Avenue LAWRENCE

Spacious 1 Bdrm 1 Bth Apt in Well Maintained Elevator Bldg 240 Central Avenue with Terrace Overlooking All $229K Spacious 1 Bdrm 1 Bth AptGarden, in WellNear 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 This spacious s/h col , in the prestigious village of woodsburgh, waterviews, and magnificent sunsets . Flr banquet fdnr , Charming Colonial Beautiful Tree lined sitsCOMMERCIAL on 1/2 acre property in a.on most setting, withStreet, beautiful RENTAL! 9 serene Dr office Suite, Located breakfast rm, main level NEW! den /fpl ,Room master bdrm suite with his waterviews, and magnificent sunsets .new Flr banquet fdnr , New! Renovated High Ranch, 4BRs, 2 room, Bths, New inand the Heart ofLarge Cedarhurst, Reception Features, Primary Suite w/WIC, and Bath, FLR, her closets and bth + 4Spacious bdrms , waiting bths, renovated COMMERCIAL RENTAL! NEW! 9 ,Room DrClose officenewly Suite, Located breakfast rm, main level den /fpl master bdrm suite with his Area and Exam Rooms, alllaundry on Main Floor. to Public finished basement with rm, playrm, lots of storage, Kitchen & Bths,3 Zone Heating & CAC, Den FLR, FDR, EIK, Den and Library Finished Basement in inand the Heart of Cedarhurst, room, Reception Transportation her closets and bththruout + 4Spacious bdrms , waiting new bths, newly renovated many special details $1.9M+ Prime Location.

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Close to Public FDR, SD# 14 $6,000 finished basement with laundry rm, playrm, lots of storage, Transportation many$1.39M special details thruout $1.9M+ $1.279M $6,000

156 B 9th St Mint 2BR, 2 BTH FAR ROCKAWAY

Beachfront 156 B 9th StCondo Mint 2BR, 2 BTH with Wraparound Terrace, Magnificent Beachfront Condo Sunrise & Sunset with Wraparound Terrace, Magnificent Brick C/H Colonial 4+ BR, 3 Bths, Hardwood floors, $589K 29 Apt 2B Renovated, Mint, Corner 1 Bdrm Sunrise & Sunset 5FLR BrWoodmere Home inBlvd Heart ofEatFar Rockaway, 3Bth, EIK, FDR, FDR, Finished Basement, in quiet Exclusive with 9ft Ceilings.

Spacious In Kitchen, 2 Sinks, Granite Tree $589K 29 Woodmere Blvd 2B Renovated, Mint, Corner 1 Bdrm Den, Foyer, Walk in Closets 130’Lvgrm/Dnr Deep Property. lined area.

Counter tops$1.599 and S.S.Apt Appliances.Large and Large with 9ft Ceilings.

Eat In Kitchen, 2 Sinks, Granite Bdrm/BR with LotsSpacious of Windows $1.4+M Counter tops and S.S. Appliances.Large Lvgrm/Dnr and Large REDUCED $299K Bdrm/BR with Lots of Windows REDUCED $299K

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APT./COOP/CONDO SALE

APT./COOP/CONDO SALE

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

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

WOODMERE New to the market studio co-op apartment, elevator building, high ceilings, low maintenance, laundry room on premises, minutes to the railroad, shopping, restaurants and houses of worship. $ 135K Mark Lipner Associate Broker Berkshire Hathaway Laffey International 516-298-8457 mlipner@bhhslaffey.com

APT./COOP/CONDO SALE

FOR RENT

LAWRENCE JUST LISTED

WOODMERE House rental 4 bedroom 2 full bathrooms, central air conditioning, kitchen with granite countertops, stainless steel appliances, dual sinks, formal dining room, den, hardwood floors, washer and dryer Mark Lipner Associate Broker Berkshire Hathaway Laffey International 516-298-8457 mlipner@bhhslaffey.com

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

LAWRENCE Spacious, Sunny 1 BR with screened in Terrace, new A/C, Move-in Condition, Well kept Bldg w/ Friendly neighbors, Lo Maint - $239K Paul (917) 579-4243

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 CEDARHURST Apartment Modern 3 bedroom, 2 bathroom, 2nd floor. SS appliances, double sink, quartz countertops, walk up finished attic, split units.

Rivka 917-639-6169 LAWRENCE New to the market 1 bedroom 1.5-bathroom condo apartment, elevator building, 24 hr doorman, central air conditioning, washer/dryer, u/g parking, terrace, many closets, social room, gym, library minutes to shopping, restaurants, transportation and houses of worship. Mark Lipner Associate Broker Berkshire Hathaway Laffey International 516-298-8457 mlipner@bhhslaffey.com

CEDARHURST 2 bedroom 2 bathroom apartment, private entrance, washer/dryer, central air conditioning, freshly painted, hardwood floors, recessed lighting, garage parking, stainless steel appliances, great courtyard, minutes to the railroad, shopping, restaurants, park and houses of worship. Mark Lipner Associate Broker Berkshire Hathaway Laffey International 516298-8457 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 BENSONHURST 3 fam, 2nd fl, 3 bed, 2 bath, EIK, lg LR, lg DR, bonus area, front porch, backyard, renov, sunny, lg windows, $2900, 347-598-9608 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 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

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Classifieds

classifieds@fivetownsjewishhome.com • text 443-929-4003

FOR RENT

FOR RENT

HELP WANTED

HELP WANTED

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

LAWRENCE

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

TEACHER/TEACHER MENTOR Join our Collaborative Team at HASC. Looking for an experienced Teacher/Teacher Mentor to help with the administration of a SEIT Program.

Great Pay! Part-time! Flexible hours!

Warm & Caring Environment.

SAS/SBL a plus Email resume: jobswd@hasc.net

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 • $179K

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

ENTRY LEVEL AP CLERK. AP FCC is looking to hire in the 5Towns! responsibilities include: Entering

with 3 closets, full bathroom with

and processing invoices; Processing

full vanity, medicine cabinet, toilet

payments; Communication with

and lighting, custom blinds, near the railroad, shopping and houses of

vendors; Accurate bookkeeping.

Organization skills and computer proficiency a must. Reach out by

worship.$289K Mark Lipner Associate

email at jobs@fcc-corp.com or Call/

Broker Berkshire Hathaway Laffey

Text 732.597.2657

International 516-298-8457 mlipner@bhhslaffey.com

HEAD MORAH Join our Specialized team at Zareinu.

Looking for a qualified teacher to plan and teach a modified Limudie Kodesh curriculum for a small group of 5th

TJH Classifieds Post your Real Estate, Help Wanted, Services, Miscellaneous Ads here.

and 6th grade girls.Great Pay! Warm environment! Great administrative support!

Email resume: jlepolstat@zareinu.org

ASSISTANT REBBE Join our Specialized team at Zareinu. a small middle school skills class.

Great Pay! Great Opportunity! Warm environment with administrative support! Email resume: jlepolstat@ zareinu.org or call 516-993-2142 PRE1A ASSISTANT Join our Specialized team at Zareinu.

Looking for a warm and caring teacher assistant to work with an

Email ads to: classifieds@fivetownsjewishhome.com Include valid credit card info and zip code

Deadline Monday 5:00pm

SUBSTITUTES FOR Limudie Kodesh/Chol Join our Specialized team at Zareinu.

Looking for am and pm substitutes for our special education classrooms located in the different Yeshivas and Beis Yaakovs in the Five Towns and Far Rockaway.

Great Pay! Great Opportunity! Warm environment with administrative support! Email resume: jlepolstat@ zareinu.org or call 516-993-2142

or call 516-993-2142

Looking for an Assistant Rebbe for

Weekly Classifieds Up to 5 lines and/or 25 words 1 week ................$20 2 weeks .............. $35 4 weeks .............. $60

SUBSTITUTE FOR PRE1A TEACHER on Maternity Leave Join our Specialized team at Zareinu.

Looking for a warm and caring teacher to substitute for a teacher on maternity leave in a small Pre1A boys’ class in a boys Yeshiva in Far Rockaway. Great Pay! Great Opportunity! Warm environment with administrative support!

Email resume: jlepolstat@zareinu.org or call 516-993-2142

experienced Morah in a small Pre1A boys’ class in a boys Yeshiva in Far Rockaway. Great Pay! Great Opportunity! Warm environment with administrative support!

Email resume: jlepolstat@zareinu.org or call 516-993-2142

SEEKING OFFICE MANAGER In Downtown Manhattan for a CPA firm accounting/booking background. Must be computer literate, knowledge of Word, Excel and Quickbooks, detail oriented and able to multitask. Please send resume to officemgr613@gmail.com YESHIVA KETANA of Long Island Seeks Full Time Office Secretary. Computer skills required Great work environment.

Email Resume to office@ykli.org BOOKKEEPER Excellent growth potential, Frum environment, Excellent salary & benefits. Email resume to: resumetfs1@gmail.com IMMEDIATE OPENING PM Substitute Assistant Teacher for lower grade special ed class, 5 Towns/ Far Rockaway Yeshiva. Great Salary.

Hours: 1:00 - 4:00, Mon. - Thurs.

Email: nnadata@zareinu.org or call 516-316-6633.

Classifieds

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HELP WANTED HE LOVES COMPUTERS, animals, and exercise. Can you share his interests? Spend time with a 29-year-old young man with developmental disabilities in Lawrence, NY. Part time, flexible hours, starting salary $27.

Contact: Jobs@hamaspikking.org or 718-387-8400 Ext. 249 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 BOOKKEEPER/OFFICE ASSISTANT Cedarhurst Office. A/R ,A/P P/R, Quickbooks, data entry, scanning & filing. 25 -30 Hrs,good Pay. 516 404-1802

HELP WANTED

HELP WANTED

HELP WANTED

SECRETARY Woodmere, Part-Time HASC, a leader in special education, is seeking a part-time SEIT Secretary to add to our Team.

Job includes general office and administrative tasks related to the tracking and maintenance of SEIT student and staff files.

Computer skills required.

Attention to detail a must.

Great pay. Room for growth.

Warm and caring environment.

Training provided. jobswd@hasc.net 516-295-1340

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

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.

FATHER & SONS CAR AND LIMO SERVICE Professional Drivers with black Suburbans for all your TRI-STATE transportation needs. · Airports · Weddings, · Out of town · Hourly rates.

Affordable luxury!!

Family operated business 36 Years experience · Shomer Shabbos

Call Mike: 1 (646) 208-6593 Mikedrivenyc@gmail.com

DO YOU PLAY GUITAR? Earn money doing what you love!

Help a friendly 14-year-old boy with ADHD gain confidence and overcome struggles by teaching him to play.

Sundays, Lawrence. jobs@hamaspikkings.org or call 718.387.8400 ext. 413 to apply.

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

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!

JANUARY 18, 2024 | The Jewish Home

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The Jewish Home | JANUARY 18, 2024

Your

Money

Too Many Men on the Field?

By Allan Rolnick, CPA

T

his weekend marks the kickoff of the NFL playoffs, and questions abound. Does Baltimore’s Lamar Jackson have what it takes to go all the way? Can San Francisco’s Brock Purdy finally silence the doubters? Will Kansas City’s Travis Kelce be too distracted to focus on the field? Stay tuned for all the action leading up to the big game on February 11!

The NFL playoffs also mark the unofficial beginning of Tax Ad Season. As usual, Intuit’s TurboTax will be suiting up against H&R Block. TurboTax is charging out of the locker room with a new “Make Your Moves Count” campaign celebrating those who are “carving their own path, making bold moves and living in new and modern ways.” We’re not sure what any of those things have to do with taxes, but the ads will focus on the company’s tax experts, AI technology, and filing solutions, “ensuring the best outcomes for all types of filers.”

At the opposite end of the stadium, Block is rolling out a new slogan, “It’s Better with Block,” and suiting up Max, a nerdy-looking 3D mascot with a white shirt and green tie handing out trophies and medals. Block is calling Max a “taxcot” (barf), which has to make you long

for the days when they featured actual humans like Willie Nelson and Jon Hamm in their ads. (They’ve come a long way since that time in 2005 when they mailed out copies of their TaxCut software with the users’ social security numbers printed on the mailing labels.)

This year, there’s a new team on the field. The IRS is piloting a new service called DirectFile that lets users file on-

vantage of the new system. The IRS says they’re “starting small to get it right” and plan to expand in future years.

As you might expect, Intuit and Block aren’t happy with the new competition.

Intuit spokeswoman Tania Mercado snidely dismissed it as a half-baked solution and waste of taxpayer money: “The direct file scheme is a solution in search of a problem.” We’ll see if she scores points

They’ve come a long way since that time in 2005 when they mailed out copies of their TaxCut software with the users’ social security numbers printed on the mailing labels.

line, for free, directly with the IRS. It’s open to taxpayers in 12 states, including California, New York, Texas, and Florida.

And it’s limited to simple filers who report income from W-2s, social security, and up to $1,500 in interest, and who take the standard deduction. The IRS expects several hundred thousand filers to take ad-

with taxpayers who have a problem paying $40 for something the government can give them for free.

2024 promises to be a big year for taxes and tax filing. This weekend, negotiators representing the House and Senate agreed to a government funding deal that cuts $10 billion from IRS enforcement ac-

tivities. It’s an election year, which means a new Congress and White House will get their chance to monkey around with the rules. (It’s also a leap year, which lawyers love, because they get an extra day to bill their clients.)

Here’s the biggest problem with TurboTax, Block, and the new IRS program.

They do a perfectly good job of telling you how much you owe. But they won’t do anything to tell you how to pay less.

There’s not a whiff of planning involved.

None of the coaches leading their teams to playoff contests this weekend would dream of taking the field without spending countless hours watching game film to understand their opponents’ strengths and weaknesses – then developing a playbook designed specifically to take advantage of those circumstances. Why would you take the field against the IRS without a playbook of your own? Put us in the game, and let us anchor your financial defense!

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

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Life C ach

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

S

eatbelts are an important part of safety on the road. B”H, it has become second nature to most people to put them on. And it’s easier to do, since you don’t need to find your key or stick it in the car ignition anymore.

We’ve got all that leisure time to strap in. Furthermore, one actually wants to put it on just to shut down that irritating dinging from the dashboard when they don’t put it on.

There was a time that nobody thought to put on that restricting belt. I don’t even know if cars had them!

Kids sat on laps, on floors, even in the front seat. They even practically swung from the ceiling. And they continuously climbed back and forth over the seats mid-ride. It was like the original jungle gym.

And tiny babies were passed around with abandon back and forth like rag dolls. Nowadays, babies are not just strapped in, they are almost immobilized. It usually takes longer to strap them in than to get where you are going!

So I ask, were seatbelts the first travel safety aids?

I don’t think so. I think it started with the animal kingdom.

Just think of a camel. It is constructed with a hump in front and in back of you – it seems to be literally holding you in. Many claim it’s for water storage, but

I’ve heard camels don’t need much water.

Therefore, I am convinced it’s there to hold people securely in place.

What about the horse? It has a generous mane placed right in front of the rider. It must be for one to grab on to for dear life. What else could it possibly be there for? A sheitel?!

And let’s talk about all the feathers on an ostrich…. Clearly, it’s to embrace when you are on their back. That bird can’t even fly; why would it need feathers?!

Come on, is an elephant spying for the CIA? What does it need those giant ears for? Obviously, for the benefit of the passengers.

My point is that G-d had this all figured out way before the automobile industry. Animals are G-d-made, while automobiles are man-made.

So you see who loves you most and created the original safety mechanisms for travel way before technology figured it out!

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.

JANUARY 18, 2024 | The Jewish Home

Along for the Ride

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