Five Towns Jewish Home 2.15.24 by Yitzy Halpern

February 15, 2024

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The Jewish Home | FEBRUARY 15, 2024

Dear Readers,

his week, a video circulated of MK Galit Distal Atbarian speaking about Judaism and the beauty found within. She spoke of how Israeli society and Jewish children being brought up in Israel are being robbed of the jewels inherently gifted to them. The secular Israeli education system, she says, is denying them the ability to see the beauty found in Judaism. “We are sitting on a treasure of wisdom, a jewel, a diamond…and we are burying it,” she laments. “Our children don’t know what it means to be a Jew. They have no idea.” She spoke about her own experience, sitting in school for years, studying philosophy, only to realize that she was robbed, duped, of not being able to experience and learn of the most precious inheritance that really is hers. “Judaism is an eternal truth; we are sitting on eternal truths. We are sitting on a diamond, and it’s time that we publicize this diamond.” The secular society in Israel is so opposed to any sniff of Yiddishkeit that they bend over backwards to create such a drastically secular educational system that children growing up in Israel can have no inkling that Avraham, Yitzchak and Yaakov – their forefathers – ever walked on these same lands. I remember speaking with someone a year or two ago who is involved with Kever

Rachel. She spoke about the soldiers guarding the tomb and commented that some of them are so secularized that when you ask them who Rachel Imeinu is, they give you a blank stare. It’s hard to imagine that children growing up in the Holy Land have no concept of how holy their land actually is, but that is the sad and horrible reality. There are forces in Israel that are actively fighting to give secular Israeli children a taste of what their heritage is about. Eretz Hakodesh, a frum slate in the World Zionist Congress, was created to ensure that Torah-true values are not lost to those living in the Holy Land. Hopefully, with representatives of Eretz Hakodesh in place in certain ministries in Israel, we can counter the forces that are vying for the secularity of the country and ensure that Jewish youth in the Holy Land are aware of the jewels found in Judaism and become proud of their heritage. After all, as Galit notes, “We are not physical creatures that are having a spiritual experience; we are spiritual creatures that are here in this world experiencing a physical experience.” Jews live on a different plane; we live on a different level. We need to be proud of the gems we are holding and share them with the next generation. 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. Opinions expressed by writers are not necessarily the opinions of the publisher or editor. The Jewish Home is not responsible for typographical errors, or for the kashrus of any product or business advertised within. The Jewish Home contains words of Torah. Please treat accordingly.

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FEBRUARY 15, 2024 | The Jewish Home

Contents

The Jewish Home | FEBRUARY 15, 2024

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

COMMUNITY Readers’ Poll

Community Happenings

NEWS Global

National

26 That’s Odd

ISRAEL Israel News

The Intelligence Failures That Left Israel Vulnerable on October 7 88

Toss or Keep? by Barbara Deutsch

104

Insulting Israel is Old News at the State Dept. by Rafael Medoff

116

Haboydem by Rafi Sackville

JEWISH THOUGHT Rabbi Wein on the Parsha

Moonwalkers by Rav Moshe Weinberger

What Made Moshe’s Prophecy Unique? by Rabbi Shmuel Reichman

Delving into the Daf by Rabbi Avrohom Sebrow

Headlines and Halacha by Rabbi Yair Hoffman

PEOPLE Inspiration Nation

Honored Heroes by Avi Heiligman

118

HEALTH & FITNESS Is Organic Food Worth the Hype? by Tehila Soskel, RDN, CDN

102

FOOD & LEISURE The Aussie Gourmet: Meat Pizza

105 LIFESTYLES

Dating Dialogue, Moderated by Jennifer Mann, LCSW

Parenting Pearls

School of Thought

100

JWOW!

103

Mind Your Business

106

Your Money

126

T-Time by Rivki D. Rosenwald Esq., CLC, SDS

127

HUMOR Centerfold

POLITICAL CROSSFIRE Notable Quotes

108

What a Russian and Ukrainian General Agree On by David Ignatius

112

Is Biden Fit To Be President Right Now? by Marc A. Thiessen

114

CLASSIFIEDS

120

Dear Editor, I felt the need to further elaborate and fill your readers in on just how meaningful a pizza party in Gaza can really be – for a unit, for a soldier, and for his mom! It was MY friend whose son returned back to Gaza after his 24-hour leave to find his unit in mourning. I know it sounds silly and mundane that a delivery of pizza could have such an effect, so I’ll let my friend’s words speak for themselves. After they got the pizza, she received a video from the unit saying thank you and sent me the following text: “You people are beyond words! We found Moishy! He’s in the back with kippah and glasses holding pizza the highest!! For so many reasons, we are thankful to you, but there’s something about the pizza video which I just love! We have not yet really seen Moishy’s unit together, and certainly not smiling and enjoying, they’ve been in aveilus mode. THIS is just what the doctor ordered. We seriously cannot thank you enough for all the chessed you do for all these chayalim. The fact that you went wayyyy above to accommodate my kid really blows us all away. Thank you from ALL of us. This gives us chizuk like you cannot imagine.” Friend of Moishy’s Mom “Kfar Rockaway” Dear Editor, I was inspired by last week’s article about Sruly Lieber’s almost herculean efforts to bring simcha and sumptuousness to our brothers and sisters in the IDF. Sruly and I often “chat” via his WhatsApp statuses – usually me commenting on his design plans and installations. After October 7, I struggled to find a trusted source for news from the frontlines and Sruly’s posts were informative, brief, real and honest. His posts from trusted sourc-

es allowed me to avoid the cognitive overload of getting news from every outlet – and not knowing whether to trust it. From there, I followed the PizzaIDF fundraising and deliveries – but held back from participating. My mother-in-law’s first yahrtzeit was this past December, and while we had given much tzedakah, learned tons of Torah, and said thousands of kipetalach Tehillim over the past year and had sponsored learning around the clock on her yahrtzeit, I still felt like something special was missing. That’s when I turned to Sruly, and he was able to coordinate a delivery to two battalions that I know my mother-in-law’s neshama schepped nachas from. And the heartfelt videos from the recipients are watched almost daily by the family. Text of what was said (translated to Hebrew by the Chayalim): “She lived in the United States but her heart was always in Israel. She loved every Jew but had a particular soft spot for the chayalim who protected Israel and her people. She was supposed to make aliyah last summer but passed away suddenly last January before realizing her lifelong dream. If she were alive today, we know she’d be driving around Israel and doing everything she can to support the chayalim and their families. May this act of chessed in her memory be a zechus for her neshama. We know she is up in Shamayim begging Hashem to bring shalom and Moshiach to Am Yisroel. Thank you, Sruly! Andy Gladstone Dear Editor, Ever notice that kosher supermarkets generally don’t carry pet food? The reason is simple — most Continued on page 10

How many bumper stickers or magnets do you have on your car?

53 28 11 8 %

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1-2

3-5

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FEBRUARY 15, 2024 | The Jewish Home

The Jewish Home | FEBRUARY 15, 2024

Continued from page 8

observant Jews don’t have pets. Some may think that it’s against halacha to have a pet. While some pets do represent a halachik problem, such as aggressive or destructive animals, many do not, so why is pet ownership so rare in the frum community? Many reasons have been given by rabbonim to discourage pet ownership. Some point out that a Jewish home is a miniature Beis Hamikdash where the Shechina rests; animals running around such a place don’t fit that ideal. On another level, pet ownership sometimes makes a person relate to an animal as if it were a person; many in the non-Jewish world regard their pets as members of their families. Some worry that people could get emotionally more attached to an animal than to people, since pets don’t criticize, complain (unless you’re very late in feeding them) and will show affection for you no matter what you look like, how much money you make, or what kind of mood you’re in. They also worry that too much attachment to an animal may detract one from his attachment to Hashem. When something isn’t forbidden by halacha, there are circumstances where that which is not usually ideal can, in fact, become a positive thing and be used for Hashem. As a widower who enjoys cats and always saw them as cute examples of Hashem’s handiwork, I consulted with my rabbi about getting a furball of my own. He told me it was a good idea in my situation, and so I began searching for one. I didn’t have to look far, because a kind woman in my neighborhood advertised a friendly cat that had taken up residence in her backyard. As soon as I was shown the cat, whom I and my son named Chustle (Hebrew for “cat”...I know, very original), he lifted my spirits. Without any reservation, I can say that caring for Chustle in no way has diminished my love for Hashem — in fact, it has enhanced it. When I pet, play with, or have Chustle on my lap, eliciting his rather loud purring, and I see the effects of his distinct

personality, it reinforces the realization of the miracle of Hashem’s creations. Of course, this miracle is far more pronounced in humans. But in the dayto-day relations with other people, with all the complexities and stress of business, marriage, and social activity, we often lose sight of this. Watching and interacting with a cat or a (gentle) dog is a constant reminder of the beauty of created life. I’m writing all this not with any expectation that kosher supermarkets will start selling pet food, or advocating in any way the over-the-top practices of dressing an animal in clothes, celebrating its birthday, or burying it in a “pet cemetery.” I write this with the hope that frum owners of pets should not think they must hide the fact from the community. As long as people make decisions with their rabbi’s guidance, there’s no shame in it at all. David Glenn Dear Editor, Recently, when I went to pick up my little one from school, he said that Yeshiva shel Ma’alah (the Next World) is much greater than this world. He then said that the toys there are much better. I couldn’t testify to the second part, but in regard to his first statement, my late relative Rav Avrohom Genechovsky, zt”l, addressed this issue. A family once approached him after their father passed and said that their father davened vasikin that day and the Gemara (Berachos 9b) notes that anyone who davens vasikin is guaranteed to be protected from harm for the entire day. He answered with the following parable. Let’s say someone has to take a plane somewhere. It turns out that their good seat is not available but that a bit less comfortable one is. It turns out the flight gets in early. You won’t find that person complaining about his uncomfortable seat because he got in early. Meeting G-d early is a great thing. Another rav said he gets many questions similar to this. Many ask him about early deaths. He noted the Mishna in Avot (4:17), “Rabbi Yaakov used to say... one hour of bliss in the Next World is better

Congressional District 3 Election Results

Tom Suozzi 54% Mazi Pilip 46%

than the entirety of life in this world.” He said that if you would take all of the time from Creation until the present, it doesn’t equal a moment of the Next World. The joy there is beyond limits. My son’s comment about Yeshiva shel Ma’alah was on point. After all, aren’t we just here to prepare properly so that we gain a valuable share there? Steven Genack Dear Editor, In unprovoked attacks, Hamas indiscriminately murders, maims, assaults and kidnaps some 1,600 innocent Israeli citizens and visitors –old people, young people ,men, women, children, infants, Americans, journalists, migrant workers—and when Israel defends itself against these savage brutes, President Biden accuses Israel of having gone too far and acting “over the top.” He fails to acknowledge the truth that Israel, with every right to defend itself with any means at its disposal, could have carpet bombed Gaza; Hamas would have been destroyed in a day. Instead, because of its high moral standards, Israel goes out of its way to protect Gazan civilians, even at huge risk to its own soldiers and citizens. Our population is about 34 times that of Israel. One wonders how the President would respond if terrorists murdered 55,000 American citizens—the proportional equivalent of Israel’s 1,600 victims – in one day. Rabbi H. L. Berenholz, C.F.A. Oceanside, NY Dear Editor, Please read this letter. I sincerely hope it will never apply to you. That’s what I thought 10 years ago. I heard about anorexia, but I never thought it would happen to my child. Unfortunately, when most people realize their child is not eating, it’s too late. Very little can be done now. Most people think it’s a good idea when their child tries to diet. They don’t realize that dieting may lead to this gehinom. Once the child has anorexia, it’s extremely difficult to get them to eat. Even when the parents are able BS”D to feed the child back, in most cases, the danger of them dieting again and putting their life in sakana remains all their lives. There is a pattern formed in the brain like in case of any other addiction. Just like former alcoholics struggle all their lives, so do former anorexics (except anorexia is far more dangerous; many of them don’t even live half of the normal lifespan, chas v’shalom). Please don’t encourage your child’s dieting and always watch them careful-

ly. Being overweight might be not ideal for some people, but being anorexic is a billion times worse. The danger is far too great. When you see your child is not eating well, contact the specialists immediately. If this letter will save even one life, it’s already worth it. A Reader Dear Editor, I think it is critical that Americans, especially Jewish Americans who are “liberal,” understand that the Biden Administration has “sold out” Israel by its latest words and actions. President Biden said that going into Rafah was “over the top,” although he had previously committed to wiping out Hamas and Israeli action resulted in two hostages being saved. Meanwhile, U.S. CIA Director William Burns has been negotiating an impossible terrorists-for-hostages deal which Israel cannot accept as terms being discussed were up to 250 terrorists for each Israeli hostage and the ceasefire that would be required for this exchange would take so long that the Biden Administration is confident that Israel would not be able to resume military operations. The Biden Administration is also pressuring Israel to provide greater humanitarian aid when it is clear that approximately 70% of the aid is taken by Hamas, which leaves the Gaza population supportive of Hamas. Also, Anthony Blinken, U.S. Secretary of State, said that the U.S. is against any proposal for resettlements outside of Gaza despite other countries that have offered Palestinian resettlements. The U.S. has also taken action to block the use of Indian workers to replace Gazans who pose a security threat, while also imposing sanctions against Jews in Judea-Samaria for so-called retaliation against Palestinians. Additionally, if that weren’t enough, the Squad is demanding that the Leahy Law allows the U.S. to review actions by the IDF in Gaza. In essence, President Biden told Jewish leaders on Dec. 12, 2023, that he stood in opposition to Ben-Gvir’s stand on Palestinian statehood and that Prime Minister Netanyahu would have to choose between his right-leaning ministers and U.S. support for Israel. Jan Henock Woodmere, NY

FEBRUARY 15, 2024 | The Jewish Home

The Jewish Home | FEBRUARY 15, 2024

The Week In News

Red Sea Attacks Cause Higher Prices

The Houthi rebel group doesn’t appear to be slowing down its attacks on ships in the Red Sea anytime soon, with Vincent Clerc, the CEO of Danish shipping company Maersk, issuing a somber prediction on Thursday that the situation will continue for “quite a few months.” In fear of Houthi rebels, who have been attacking ships on the Red Sea in an attempt to pressure Israel into a cease-

fire with Hamas, commercial ships have been, for the most part, avoiding the Red Sea and the Suez Canal, a man-made Egyptian waterway that links the Red Sea and the Mediterranean Sea. Fewer ships traversing the Suez Canal is a major issue, as the body of water is responsible for 1015% of world trade, as well as for 30% of global container shipping volumes. According to Peter Sand, the chief analyst of Xeneta, an air and ocean freight analytics company, 90% of container ships that would have normally traveled through the Red Sea have been forced to take a detour around the southern tip of the continent of Africa. Additionally, one-fourth of bulk carriers, which carry shipments of grain, cement, and other items, and one-quarter of tankers, which transport oil and natural gas, were also forced to travel around the continent. In all, Sand explained, the detour has delayed container ships by up to two weeks and bulk carriers and tankers by around eighteen days. Not only that, but for each ship that travels around the southern tip of Africa, it costs container companies an additional $1 million or so, Sand added, citing increased fuel prices for the costs. Some have chosen to avoid the sea entirely, opting to transport goods on airplanes instead.

“We do see fashion companies and those selling apparel in Europe deciding that some of their clothing lines will go airborne, instead of going seaborne, and that’s when you really talk about escalating costs,” explained Sand. “That is 10 to 20 times more expensive.” According to statistics published by the Drewry World Container Index, global shipping costs increased 90% this week in comparison to last year, with an average 40-foot-high container costing $3,786. However, shipping costs are still much lower than they were at the height of the pandemic in September 2021, when they stood at $10,380.

Iceland Volcano Erupts

Following a half-hour of intense earthquakes, at around 6:00 AM on

Thursday, an Icelandic volcano began erupting, spurting lava 260 feet in the air. This marks the volcano’s second eruption of 2024, with its first occurring on January 14, prompting 4,000 residents to evacuate the town of Grindavik. “Warning: A volcanic eruption started north of Sylingarfell,” Iceland’s meteorological office announced, adding that the Blue Lagoon geothermal spa was closed for Thursday. The fissure was two miles long, according to the Met Office. Although the eruption “could pose some threat to the road to Grindavik and it could pose some threat to the power plant and even to the Blue Lagoon” if a large amount of lava ends up coming out from the ground, the town of Grindavik will likely be safe from the eruption, which took place far away from the town, said Ari Trausti Gudmundsson, an Icelandic geophysicist. This is the sixth outbreak to take place in the Nordic country’s Reykjanes peninsula since 2021. Most of the time, the Reykjanes outbreaks, which are also called Iceland-type fissure eruptions, do not cause major eruptions or the dispersion of a significant amount of ash. In November 2023, government officials began constructing dikes to prevent lava from reaching residential areas.

FEBRUARY 15, 2024 | The Jewish Home

“When we see waves in one country, we will generally see waves in other countries; that’s how interconnected we are,” said Dr. Albert Ko, an expert on dengue in Brazil and a professor of public health at Yale University. The World Health Organization has warned that dengue is rapidly becoming an urgent global health problem, with a record number of cases last year and outbreaks in places, such as France, that have historically never reported the disease.

The Jewish Home | FEBRUARY 15, 2024

In the United States, Dr. Gabriela Paz-Bailey, chief of the dengue branch at the division of vector-borne diseases at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, said that she expected high rates of dengue infection in Puerto Rico this year and that there would be more cases in the continental United States as well, especially in Florida, as well as in Texas, Arizona and Southern California. Dengue is spread by Aedes aegypti, a species of mosquito that is becoming established in new regions, including warmer, wetter parts of the United States, where it had never been seen until the past few years. Cases in the United States are still expected to be relatively few this year — in the hundreds, not millions — because of the prevalence of air conditioning and window screens. (© The New York Times)

Fatal Landslide In Philippines

Iceland, a popular attraction for volcano tourists, is home to over thirty active volcanoes.

Brazil’s Dengue Emergency Brazil is experiencing an enormous outbreak of dengue fever, the sometimes fatal mosquito-borne disease, and public health experts say it is a harbinger of

a coming surge in cases in the Americas, including Puerto Rico. Brazil’s Health Ministry warns that it expects more than 4.2 million cases this year, outstripping the 4.1 million cases the Pan American Health Organization recorded for all 42 countries in the region last year. Brazil was due for a bad dengue year — numbers of cases of the virus typically rise and fall on a roughly four-year cycle — but experts say a number of factors

have significantly amplified the problem this year. “The record heat in the country and the above-average rainfall since last year, even before the summer, have increased the number of mosquito breeding sites in Brazil, even in regions that had few cases of the disease,” Brazilian Health Minister Nísia Trindade said. Dengue case numbers have already soared in Argentina, Uruguay, and Paraguay in the last few months.

At least 27 people have died, 35 others have been hurt, and 89 are missing after a landslide hit Maco, a municipality of the Philippines, last week, impacting over 5,300 people in all. About 1,559 residents were evacuated from their homes, and

FEBRUARY 15, 2024 | The Jewish Home

The Jewish Home | FEBRUARY 15, 2024

many houses were destroyed as well. Although those missing were believed to have perished under the rubble, a three-year-old girl was rescued, giving hope to the families of those still missing. The child, who is in stable condition, had been buried beneath the rubble for almost sixty hours before she was found on Friday by rescuers who had been digging with their hands and shovels. Authorities are currently searching and attempting to rescue survivors, according to Ariel Capoy, the incident commander engineer. Poor conditions forced officials to temporarily stop the search effort on Thursday, but it has since continued. The landslide was caused by “unpredictable weather conditions,” which prompted “pre-emptive evacuations,” said provincial official Elizabeth Uy. Of those missing, 45 or more are workers of Apex Mining, a Filipino-owned company whose employees had been waiting for the arrival of buses when the landslide occurred. The disaster covered much of the area in layers of mud. Since late January, over 20 people have died in the country as a result of floods and landslides caused by heavy rains, according to the country’s National Disaster Authority.

Pakistan Elections

The party of the imprisoned former prime minister of Pakistan, Imran Khan, won the most seats in parliamentary elections this past week, delivering a strong rebuke to the country’s powerful generals and throwing the political system into chaos. While military leaders had hoped the election would put an end to the political turmoil that has consumed the country since Khan’s ouster in 2022, it has instead plunged it into an even deeper crisis, analysts said. Never before in the country’s history has a politician seen such success in an election without the backing of the generals — much less after facing their iron fist. In voting Thursday, candidates from Khan’s party, Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf, or PTI, appeared to win about 97 seats in

the National Assembly, the lower house of Parliament, the country’s election commission reported Saturday. The military’s preferred party, the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz, or PML-N, led by a three-time former prime minister, Nawaz Sharif, won at least 73 seats, the commission said. Only seven seats were left unaccounted for — not enough to change the outcome as reported by the commission. While candidates aligned with Khan were set to be the largest group in Parliament, they still fell short of a simple majority — setting off a race between the parties of Khan and Sharif to win over other lawmakers and establish a coalition government. The success of Khan’s party was a head-spinning upset in an election that the military thought would be an easy victory for Sharif. Before last week’s election, Pakistan’s powerful generals had jailed Khan, arrested candidates allied with him and intimidated his supporters to clear his party from the playing field — or so they thought. Instead, the election results confirmed that Khan remains a formidable force in Pakistani politics, despite his ouster and subsequent imprisonment. The vote also showed that Khan’s strategy of preaching reform and railing

against the military has resonated deeply with Pakistanis — particularly young people — who are disillusioned with the political system. Khan, a former cricket star turned populist politician, was sentenced to a total of 34 years in prison after being convicted in four separate cases on charges that included leaking state secrets and unlawful marriage, and that he has called politically motivated. (© The New York Times)

Hamas Tunnel Under UNRWA HQ UNRWA, a United Nations agency responsible for providing development and relief to Gazans, has been under fire for its alleged involvement in the October 7th Hamas massacre, with many countries pausing funding to the organization. Amid Israel’s ground campaign in

FEBRUARY 15, 2024 | The Jewish Home

The Jewish Home | FEBRUARY 15, 2024

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GROCERY

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Gaza, the IDF uncovered a Hamas tunnel operating beneath UNRWA’s headquarters. The tunnel, which was shown to members of the media, had served as the terror group’s data center and contained an electricity room, living quarters, and industrial battery power banks.

Phillipe Lazzarini, the commissioner-general of the UN agency, asserted on Saturday that UNRWA was not aware of what was “under its headquarters in Gaza,” and claimed that Israel failed to inform his agency “officially about the alleged tunnel.” Lazzarini added that the agency left their Gaza City headquarters on October 12 in preparation for Israel’s ground offensive and had no knowledge of any Hamas terrorists operating beneath their facilities. On X, Israel’s Coordinator of Government Activities in the Territories (COGAT) immediately rejected the UNRWA chief’s claims of ignorance, insisting

that the agency was well aware of what was happening under its quarters. In response, Lazzarini asserted that UNRWA “is a human development and humanitarian organization that does not have the military and security expertise nor the capacity to undertake military inspections of what is or might be under its premises,” and has “consistently reported in annual reports presented to the General Assembly and made public” any “suspicious” activities they had knowledge of. COGAT said on X that Israel notified UNRWA and senior UN officials of the Hamas tunnel beneath the agency’s headquarters. “Oh, you knew… Digging a tunnel takes longer than 4 months. We invited senior UN officials to see, and during past meetings with you and other UN officials, we stated Hamas’s use of UNRWA’s headquarters,” COGAT wrote on the X social media platform. “You chose to ignore the facts so you can later try and deny them.” Foreign Minister Israel Katz called for Lazzarini’s immediate resignation and asserted that UNRWA has “deep involvement” with the terror group responsible for killing 1,200 people, abducting more than 200 others – half of whom have yet to be brought home – and injuring thousands more.

Israel’s UN Ambassador Gilad Erdan said that Israel provided proof to Lazzarini that Hamas was operating within UNRWA schools and yet he “refused” to allow the Israeli military to search the facilities. According to a statement released by the IDF and Shin Bet, Israel’s ground operations in Gaza City have led the military to discover “an underground terror tunnel that served as a significant asset of Hamas’s military intelligence and passed under the building that serves as UNRWA’s main headquarters in the Gaza Strip.” In the tunnel, 700 meter-long and 18 meter-deep “electrical infrastructure” was physically connected to UNRWA’s headquarters, they added, “indicating that UNRWA’s facilities supplied the tunnel with electricity.” Additionally, findings in the facilities “confirmed that the offices had, in fact, also been used by Hamas terrorists.” The UN has started investigating the allegations that twelve UNRWA staffers collaborated with Hamas during the terror group’s invasion of southern Israel. The international organization also seeks to determine how politically neutral the group is. Antonio Guterres, the chief of the UN, has asserted that UNRWA is the “backbone” of humanitarian aid in Gaza. Antony Blinken, the U.S. Secretary of State, agreed with Guterres, asserting that the agency is “absolutely indispensable … in trying to make sure that men, women, and children who so desperately need assistance in Gaza actually get it.”

2 Hostages Rescued

Louis Har, 70, and Fernando Marman, 61, were rescued by Israeli forces from Hamas captivity this week after being held hostage in Gaza for 128 days. They, along with Marman’s two sisters and niece, were among the 253 people kidnapped from Israel on October 7, when the Hamas terror group launched a series of vicious attacks on southern Israel, murdering more than 1,200 Jews and triggering a war in the Gaza Strip. There remain 134 hostages, at least 29 of whom are no longer alive.

Har and Marman, who were abducted from Kibbutz Nir Yitzchak, were rescued by the IDF, Shin Bet, and Yamam counterterrorism unit from captivity in Rafah in what Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has hailed as one of “the most successful rescue operations” Israel has ever seen. The operation started shortly after midnight on Monday, February 12. “Reaching the target in the heart of Rafah was very complex,” said IDF Spokesman Rear Adm. Daniel Hagari, adding that members of the Yamam team “carried out a very complex action on the premises and the second floor where the hostages were held.” Israeli forces, with help from sensitive intelligence, entered the apartment where the two hostages were being held at 1:49 AM and went on to kill three terrorists who were guarding Har and Marman. The forces “hugged and protected Louis and Fernando with their bodies,” said Hagari. At 1:50 AM, major airstrikes hit Hamas terrorists in the surrounding area who had opened fire from nearby buildings. Hamas said that 100 people died as a result of the Israeli operation and condemned the Jewish state for “the massacre … conducted in Rafah tonight,” which the terrorist group claims is a continuation of Israel’s “genocidal war” against Palestinians. “The troops pulled Louis and Fernando out of the apartment and rescued them under fire until they reached the safe zone,” Hagari shared. Less than an hour later, the two men were transported out of the city in armored vehicles and were brought via helicopter to Sheba Medical Center, where they were reunited with their loved ones. Har and Marman are in good condition, according to the Ramat Gan hospital. Har’s daughters, Rinat Har-Sheleg and Natali Har-Afgan, had traveled to New York in November to plead for their father’s freedom. As part of a short-lived ceasefire deal later that month, Marman’s sisters Clara Marman and Gabrielle Leimberg, as well as her daughter Mia, were released from captivity. More than four months after the October 7th massacre, the prayers of the family were, at long last, answered, and they are now home with their loved ones. Har is a father of four and a beloved grandfather of ten. “There were hugs, tears. Not many words,” Har’s son-in-law, Idan Bejerano, said of the emotional reunion at the hospital. “It seems he [Louis Har] was very worried about us all. It seems they had strength of spirit for these 128 days, to remain strong and to come back to us.

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“They’re both in bed at the hospital. It’s difficult to know, but they look whole. Whether they’re healthy in spirit, in body, is still hard to know. But they look whole,” Bejerano added. This marks Israel’s second successful rescue operation since October 7, the first having taken place in late October when Israeli soldier Ori Megidish was rescued. Aside from one slight injury, no Israelis were wounded in this week’s operation. “It was a very tense and very touch-

ing night. Such an operation was made possible thanks to the great sacrifice of the standing army and reserve troops who fell and were injured in the battles. Without their sacrifice, we would not have reached this moment,” said Hagari. “Even this morning, we don’t forget for a moment that 134 hostages are still being held in Gaza. If you [the hostages] can hear me now, we are very determined to bring you home, and we will not miss any opportunity to bring you home.”

More Heartbreak On Sunday, two IDF soldiers were killed in combat in Khan Younis, a city in southern Gaza, bringing the death toll to 229 Israeli soldiers who have died while fighting against Hamas, since October 7 when the terrorist organization invaded southern Israel, slaughtering 1,200 Israelis, most of whom were civilians. The two fallen soldiers were Sgt. First

Class Adi Eldor from Haifa and Sgt. First Class (res.) Alon Klein from Tel Aviv. Both were 21 years old and were part of the Commando Brigade’s Maglan unit. Two other soldiers from the same unit were injured. Both soldiers were the sons of prominent doctors. Eldor’s father, Dr. Liron Eldor, is a senior plastic and reconstructive surgeon at Rambam Medical Center; his grandfather, Prof. Yosef Itzkowitz-Eldor, is a leading expert in Israeli stem cell research and fertility medicine at Rambam and Technion. Kleinman’s father, Prof. Guy Kleinman, is the head of Wolfson Medical Center’s ophthalmology department. “The horrible news of Adi’s falling is heartbreaking,” said Prof. Michael Halbertal, the director-general of Rambam, a hospital in Haifa. “Alon, may his memory be a blessing, was killed while fighting valiantly in heavy battles in Khan Younis to defend the State of Israel and its inhabitants,” read a statement by Wolfson, a hospital in Holon. “The entire Wolfson community mourns together with Prof. Kleinman and extends condolences to the whole family.” News of this tragedy came shortly before two hostages – Louis Har and Fernando Marman – were rescued by Israeli forces in a highly successful operation early Monday morning. As Israel gets ready to move its ground campaign into Rafah, a major city in the Gaza Strip, international pressure on the Jewish state is increasing, with some condemning Israel for its intense actions in the enclave. The World Health Organization’s director-general, Tedros Adhandom Ghebreyesus, alleged that Israel blocked a WHO team from going to Gaza’s Nasser hospital.

“We’re deeply concerned about the safety of patients and health personnel due to the intensifying hostilities in the vicinity of the hospital,” Ghebreyesus posted on X. Israel’s Coordinator of Government Activities in the Territories unit (COGAT) denied Ghebreyesus’ accusations. “WHO has never submitted a coordination request to the Nasser hospital on the date you mentioned,” it wrote. “Perhaps next time a better communication with your team on the ground before baselessly accusing us would be wise.” On Tuesday, the military announced

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“All attacks against innocent civilians, women and children, including those of October 7, cannot be accepted by any Muslim,” he said. “As I have previously stressed, we must make sure the horrors of the past few months since October 7, are never repeated, nor accepted by any human being.”

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that three more soldiers lost their lives fighting Hamas in Gaza: Lt. Col. (res.) Netanel Yaacov Elkouby, 36, the commander of the Gaza Division’s Southern Brigade’s 630th Battalion, from Haifa; Maj. (res.) Yair Cohen, 30, an acting company commander in the Gaza Division’s Southern Brigade’s 630th Battalion, from Ramat Gan; and Sgt. First Class (res.) Ziv Chen, 27, of the Gaza Division’s Southern Brigade’s 630th Battalion, from Kfar Saba.

Tuesday’s announcement brings the death toll of IDF soldiers in the nearly four months of fighting to 232. According to military sources, the three soldiers were killed when an explosive was detonated in a building they were in east of Khan Younis, where much of the fighting has been concentrated in recent weeks. Two soldiers from the 630th Battalion were seriously wounded in the same battle.

Jordan’s King Calls for Ceasefire On Monday, speaking alongside President Joe Biden in the White House, Jordan’s King Abdullah called for a “lasting ceasefire.” The Hashemite leader said that the October 7 massacre should be unacceptable to all Muslims.

He added, “We must together, along with Arab partners and the international community, step up efforts to reach a ceasefire in Gaza and immediately start working to create a political horizon that leads to a just and comprehensive peace,” on the pre-1967 lines, he said. “This is the only solution that will guarantee peace and security for the Palestinians and the Israelis as well as the entire region.” Abdullah is also set to meet with leaders in Canada, France, and Germany to urge nations around the world to push Israel towards a ceasefire. He has also been warning Israel not to push into Rafah, a Hamas stronghold. “We cannot afford an Israeli attack on Rafah,” said Abdullah. “It is certain to produce another humanitarian catastrophe.” He added, “The situation is already unbearable for over a million people who have been pushed into Rafah since the war started. We cannot stand by and let this continue. We need a lasting ceasefire now. This war must end,” Abdullah said. “The potential threat of Palestinian displacement beyond the borders of Gaza and the West Bank is something we view with extreme concern and cannot be allowed,” he added. Abdullah praised UNRWA, the UN agency for Palestinian refugees, and urged support for the entity. Some UNRWA workers were involved in the October 7 attacks, and it has been proven that a Hamas stronghold was stationed under the UNRWA headquarters in Gaza. Many nations from around the world have pulled funding from the organization as these revelations have come to light. “No other UN agency can do what UNRWA is doing, helping the people of Gaza through this humanitarian catastrophe,” the Muslim leader said. “Its work in other areas of operation,

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The Jewish Home | FEBRUARY 15, 2024

especially in Jordan, where 2.3 million are registered is also vital. It is imperative that UNRWA continues to receive the support it needs to carry out its mandate.”

Be’eri to Start Rebuilding

On October 7, more than 100 Hamas terrorists murdered at least 97 civilians in Be’eri, which had been the largest kibbutz in the Eshkol Regional Council with more than 1,000 residents and 390 homes. Last week, the town began to rebuild, with bulldozers on site to remove rubble and start demolition of those homes that are too damaged to be repaired. It will take approximately two years and NIS 300 million ($82 million) to rebuild the kibbutz. Around one-quarter of the homes in

the kibbutz – 130 of them – need to be rebuilt. Some of those need to be demolished before rebuilding; others are partially damaged. The terrorists had set many residences on fire to force residents to leave the safety of their homes. After killing the residents or kidnapping them, the terrorists also holed themselves up in some homes, exchanging fire with Israeli troops. Multiple homes were damaged in explosions from grenades and rocket launchers. Additionally, tanks and armored personnel carriers tore up infrastructure as they maneuvered across the kibbutz. The tanks and APCs destroyed sewage, drainage and water piping. Haim Jelin, a resident of Be’eri and a former head of the Eshkol Regional Council, said that some of the damaged buildings may be preserved to commemorate what happened in Be’eri. “It’s a balance. There’s a desire to preserve but also to move on,” he said. “There’s an idea about relocating some of the damaged homes, eventually, to an agricultural area. Not only from Be’eri but also from other affected kibbutzim and moshavim.” Other communities are also going to be rebuilt, including Nir Am, Nir Oz and

Gevim and Kfar Aza and Netiv Ha’asara. Be’eri’s surviving residents voted to move temporarily into Kibbutz Hatzerim in the Negev until their kibbutz is ready to be resettled sometime in 2025, according to the Tekuma Region’s plan. Many of the residents are still staying at a hotel near the Dead Sea, where they moved immediately following their kibbutz’s evacuation starting October 7. Work on Be’eri’s avocado and citrus groves and wheat fields continues. Be’eri Print, one of the country’s largest printing presses and a cash cow for the kibbutz, resumed operating within two weeks of the massacre, bringing back hundreds of employees.

“A Sympathetic, Well-Meaning, Elderly Man”

On Thursday, special counsel Robert Hur released a report on President Joe Biden’s classified documents case, in which it was determined that Biden “willfully retained and disclosed classified materials” while he was no longer vice president and, in 2017, provided classified details to the ghostwriter of his memoir, Promise Me, Dad. However, the report stopped short of charging the U.S. president with mishandling classified documents, with the special counsel citing Biden’s age and poor memory as to why the 81-year-old commander-in-cheif should be excused for the mishandling. “At trial, Mr. Biden would likely present himself to a jury, as he did during our interview of him, as a sympathetic, well-meaning, elderly man with a poor memory,” wrote Hur, pointing out that recorded conversations between the president and his ghostwriter “from 2017 are often painfully slow, with Mr. Biden struggling to remember events and straining at times to read and relay his own notebook entries.” In 2017, a time when Biden did not

hold public office, he told his ghostwriter, in a recorded conversation, that he “found all the classified stuff downstairs.” Investigators have determined that Biden was likely referring to classified documents on troops in Afghanistan that he had kept in a Virginia house he was renting at the time. The FBI later uncovered the documents in the President’s Delaware garage. The report asserts that Biden should not be charged on the basis that he “could have found the classified Afghanistan documents at his Virginia home in 2017 and then forgotten about them soon after. This could convince some reasonable jurors that he did not retain them willfully.” Since Biden made no further mention of the documents in the “dozens of hours” of conversations with his ghostwriter, there is a possibility, says the report, that the president may have just forgotten that the documents were there. The report went on to claim that Biden’s memory was shown to be “significantly limited” in his 2017 conversations with his ghostwriter and in the 2023 special counsel interviews, and thus, he would likely convince jurors that his mishandling of classified documents was unintentional. Biden was not pleased with the report’s conclusions, which seems to validate concerns over the president’s age and cognitive abilities. Biden appeared especially angry about the report’s allegations that he forgot the day of his son’s death. “There’s even reference that I don’t remember to when my son died,” Biden said. “How in the [heck] dare he raise that? Frankly, when I was asked the question, I thought to myself, ‘It wasn’t any of their [darn] business.’ “I am well-meaning. And I’m an elderly man. And I know what the [heck] I’m doing. I’ve been president – I put this country back on its feet. I don’t need his recommendation.” A few minutes later, Biden mistakenly referred to Egyptian President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi as the “president of Mexico.” Many Republicans have accused the special counsel of having a double standard; while Donald Trump was charged with mishandling classified documents, Biden has not been. The report claims that Biden is receiving more lenient treatment than Trump because Biden complied with the investigations, while Trump allegedly did not. Richard Sauber, the president’s special counsel, and Bob Bauer, Biden’s attorney, criticized the report. “We do not believe that the report’s

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The Jewish Home | FEBRUARY 15, 2024

treatment of President Biden’s memory is accurate or appropriate,” they wrote. “The Report delves into a discussion of the ‘evidence’ of ‘willful’ retention of classified documents, only to acknowledge that there is, in fact, no case of ‘willful’ retention at all.”

Fight Over Artwork

In recent years, some works of art that were stolen by the Nazis have been returned to their rightful owners. But one case paints a complicated picture of such endeavors. The Museum of Modern Art quietly returned Marc Chagall’s Over Vitebsk to the heirs of a Jewish gallery owner three years ago, The New York Times reported on Monday. In exchange, the

museum received $4 million. And now one of the heirs is fighting in court with the restitution company that had helped him and his six family members get the artwork back. “You have a case which is not black and white,” James Palmer, the founder of the restitution company Mondex, told the Times. The deal “makes perfect sense given some of the questions that can’t be resolved,” he said. The Chagall was once owned by a German gallery under the leadership of Francis Matthiessen, a Jewish dealer who fled the country in 1933. In 1934, the painting was given to a German bank connected to the Nazis, reportedly for “debt reduction,” according to the records on MoMA’s website. It was eventually sold to the museum in 1949, where it sat for decades before Mondex teamed up with Patrick Matthiessen, Francis’s son, to find art that had once belonged to his father’s gallery. Matthiessen and Mondex were successful in getting Over Vitebsk returned to the Matthiessen family, but Matthiessen told The New York Times that the process was unpleasant. (Last year, the family sold the painting for $24 million.) In legal documents, Matthiessen has accused Mondex of breaching its contract, including the negotiation of the $4 mil-

lion payment to MoMA without the heirs’ approval. “They fought tooth and nail to the last ditch on giving this back,” Matthiessen said about the museum. MoMA said in a statement that it had “collaborated on extensive provenance research on the painting” with the family. It added that it had gotten a payment from them and that it would go toward a provenance research fund named after Francis Matthiessen. For its part, Mondex has said in court papers that it followed all the terms of the agreement it had with the Matthiessen heirs. Palmer defended MoMA to The New York Times, saying that he thought the return of the painting was a fair settlement.

Bob of Flour Fame Dies

Bob Moore, founder of the wholegrain food company Bob’s Red Mill, died last week at 94. “It is with heavy hearts that we share the news that our Founder, Bob Moore, left this world today, Saturday, February 10, 2024,” a statement from the company read. “He was 94 years old and full of the same love for wholesome foods as the day he founded Bob’s Red Mill.” Bob was born in Portland, Oregon, but grew up in Los Angeles. He then moved back to Oregon later in life. “We will truly miss his energy and larger-than-life personality,” the company’s message concluded. Bob’s successful food career began out of a yearning for more health-conscious eating for himself and wife Charlee, whom he married in 1953 after meeting on a blind date the year prior. “We needed to change our diet,” Moore told PEOPLE in 2019 of their initial idea. “We became quite enamored with all whole-grain, healthy food.” The couple opened a stone-ground flour mill in Redding, where they produced healthy cereals and flours. Moore and Charlee later opened Bob’s Red Mill in Milwaukie in 1978, when Moore was 50. The business focused on selling natural foods and continues to thrive today. “If I had my life to live over, I would

have started way early in this business. You know, I started in the middle of my life,” Moore explained to CBS in a 2020 interview. Despite the late start, by 2010, Bob’s Red Mill had become a $100 million company which Moore gifted to his employees. “They made us the ultimate company that I’m proud of,” he explained in 2019. Moore discussed this business move with Portland Monthly, explaining that, “the Bible says to do unto others as you would have them do unto you. And so there’s an element of how you treat people that impressed me. And sharing in the profit, sharing in the company to make things more fair and more benevolent impressed me, and I felt strongly about it.”

Senate Passes Foreign Aid Bill

The Senate passed a $95.3 billion foreign aid bill with assistance for Ukraine and Israel in a vote early Tuesday morning. The foreign aid package includes billions of dollars to support Ukraine and for security assistance for Israel, as well as humanitarian assistance for civilians in Gaza, the West Bank and Ukraine, among other priorities. The bill was passed 70 to 29, with 22 Republicans voting in favor despite House Speaker Mike Johnson’s criticism of the bill. “History settles every account,” Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell said in a statement following the vote. “And today, on the value of American leadership and strength, history will record that the Senate did not blink.” McConnell voted for the bill. The bill includes $60 billion to support Ukraine in its fight against Russia, $14.1 billion in security assistance for Israel, $9.2 billion in humanitarian assistance, and $4.8 billion to support regional partners in the Indo-Pacific region in addition to other policy provisions, according to the Senate Appropriations Committee. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky welcomed the news, thanking

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The Jewish Home | FEBRUARY 15, 2024

Majority Leader Chuck Schumer, McConnell, and “every U.S. Senator who has supported continued assistance to Ukraine as we fight for freedom, democracy, and the values we all hold dear.” In a statement on Monday, Johnson criticized the foreign aid bill over its lack of border provisions, saying the Senate “should have gone back to the drawing board to amend the current bill to include real border security provisions that would actually help end the ongoing catastrophe.”

CDC: Less Covid Isolation

According to agency officials, this spring, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention is expected to shift its Covid-19 isolation guidance to recommend that people no longer

need to isolate once they have been fever-free for 24 hours and their symptoms are mild or improving, according to the Washington Post. The guidelines have not yet been announced; they had been discussed internally last week and are expected to be announced in the coming weeks. Since 2021, the agency has said people should isolate for at least five days if they tested positive for Covid, and then continue to mask. The updated guidance would bring Covid in line with guidance for other respiratory viruses, such as flu. California and Oregon had recently broken with CDC’s guidance to say that people who test positive for Covid are no longer expected to isolate for a set period of time — and those without symptoms don’t have to isolate at all. Certainly, many Americans have not been isolating – with or without symptoms. Dr. William Schaffner, an infectious disease expert at Vanderbilt University, cited the latest variant, JN.1, as a case in point. “It’s producing a lot of mild infection. Lots of people are not even testing,” Schaffner said. If they test positive, people aren’t really following strict guidelines for

isolation anymore. “Once they feel better, they’re going back to their normal activities. They are not rigorously putting themselves in isolation for five days,” Schaffner noted. W as te w ate r s urve il l a n ce da ta published by the CDC suggests that Covid is still circulating at high levels across the U.S., but the agency notes that “infections are causing severe disease less frequently than earlier in the pandemic.”

Tucker Carlson Interviews Putin

Tucker Carlson, a popular conservative political commentator who previously had a show on Fox News, interviewed Russia’s infamous president, Vladimir Putin, last week on the topic of the war on Ukraine as part of Carlson’s show on the X social media platform. The controversial interview lasted for over two hours and earned Carlson intense criticism from many. The interviewer, during the conversation, complimented Putin on his “encyclopedic knowledge” of the surrounding region and offered few arguments to the Russian president’s claims about the war. “We have every reason to affirm that Ukraine is an artificial state that was shaped at Stalin’s will,” Putin said. Addressing his viewers immediately before the interview, Carlson said, “Vladimir Putin believes that Russia has a historic claim to parts of western Ukraine. So our opinion would be to view it in that light as a sincere expression of what he thinks.” Putin “seemed to us sincere whether you agree with it or not,” Carlson added. During the interview, Putin asserted that Russia is waging war against Ukraine as a means of self-protection. He also indicated that he would be willing to negotiate with the United States, but then went on to declare U.S. funding for Ukraine “a provocation and a cheap provocation at that.” “This is obvious. Do the United States need this? What for? Thousands of miles away from your national territory. Don’t you have anything better to do? You have issues on the border. Issues with migration, issues with the national debt,” Putin

said, urging the U.S. to stop supporting Ukraine. At one point in the interview, Putin claimed that many of President Joe Biden’s efforts have been sabotaged by U.S. intelligence agencies. At one point, Carlson asked Putin if he would release Evan Gershkovich, a Wall Street Journal reporter who was arrested in March 2023 while in Russia and has been detained ever since on charges of espionage. The U.S. maintains that Gershkovich was wrongfully arrested. “And I just want to ask you directly, without getting into the details of it or your version of what happened, if, as a sign of your decency, you would be willing to release him to us, and we’ll bring him back to the United States,” asked Carlson. Putin replied that the Kremlin has “done so many gestures of goodwill out of decency that I think we have run out of them” and went on to claim that Gershkovich is a spy. Carlson argued that he’s just “a 32-year-old newspaper reporter.” “I do not rule out that the person you refer to, Mr. Gershkovich, may return to his motherland,” conceded Putin. Russia’s state media heavily featured and promoted the interview, with the Kremlin’s press secretary Dmitry Peskov claiming that other U.S. journalists, especially those on the left, are “jealous” of Carlson’s opportunity to interview Putin. Many members of the U.S. media have asserted that the interview gave Putin a platform to spread propaganda, unchallenged. Sarah Rainsford from the BBC criticized Carlson, asserting that “none of the actual facts of his all-out invasion were presented to him [Putin], including allegations of war crimes in Bucha, Irpin and far beyond.” Keir Simmons, a senior international correspondent for NBC, said that Putin was “allowed to focus on his favorite topics” during the interview and actively sought to “influence the conversation in Washington” concerning the Kremlin and the war on Ukraine.

What is Alaskapox? Most people have never heard of Alaskapox – and for good reason. It was only discovered in 2015, and since then, only seven Alaskapox infections have been reported. Recently, though, health officials confirmed the first known death linked to the virus. “This is the first case of severe Alaskapox infection resulting in hospitalization and death,” the health department said in a release last week.

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The Jewish Home | FEBRUARY 15, 2024

FEBRUARY 15, 2024 | The Jewish Home

The Jewish Home | FEBRUARY 15, 2024

Symptoms of the virus include one or more skin lesions that look at first like a spider bite. Swollen lymph nodes, muscle pain and fever can also occur. Most people only have mild symptoms and generally get better on their own without medical intervention.

Shooting at Joel Osteen’s Church

The elderly man who died from the virus had a weakened immune system because of cancer treatment, which probably contributed to the severity of his illness, officials noted. A stray cat that hunted small animals would visit him and often scratch him. Experts say that the illness is often mild and that infections remain rare in humans, as the virus is primarily found in small mammal populations throughout Alaska, regularly infecting

red-backed voles and shrews as well as other rodents like red squirrels. It’s possible that the virus has been around for many years, but scientists have only recently discovered it due to clinician and general public awareness. People contract the virus from contact with an animal who has the virus. The first case of Alaskapox was discovered in July 2015 in a woman living near Fairbanks in central Alaska, according to the state health department.

Since then, five additional cases have been reported in the Fairbanks area. The most recent case — which resulted in the first known death from Alaskapox — is also the first discovered outside of Fairbanks. It was reported about 500 miles south on the Kenai Peninsula, officials say. This indicates that Alaskapox is more geographically widespread in the state than previously thought.

Genesse Ivonne Moreno, 36, opened fire with a semiautomatic rifle in Houston’s Lakewood Church on Sunday. The megachurch run by televangelist Joel Osteen was about to start its Spanish services. Two people were injured, including Moreno’s 7-year-old son, before Moreno was killed by law enforcement. Moreno had a history of mental illness. She never called her son, Sam, by his name, only referring to him as “boy.” Moreno had been put under an order for emotional detention in 2016. Her mother-in-law had unsuccessfully petitioned to be declared conservator of Sam in 2022 and said that Moreno was schizophrenic and could be violent. Texas has no red flag law – also known as an extreme risk protection order law – that allows authorities to take weapons from a person thought to be in crisis. Moreno would taunt her neighbors and flaunt her firearms outside her home. On Sunday, she burst her way into the church and fired around 30 bullets. Two off-duty officers were at the church: a 28-year-old Houston Police Department officer and a 38-year-old agent with the Texas Alcoholic Beverage Commission, both with less than five years of service. The two officers engaged Moreno, and she was fatally hit. Her son was hit in the head, and he is hospitalized.

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The Jewish Home | FEBRUARY 15, 2024

A 57-year-old man who was also shot in the leg was released from a medical facility. Moreno used an AR-15 with a “Palestine” sticker on it during the attack, which she legally purchased in December, police said. She also had a .22 caliber weapon in her bag that was not used. Walli Carranza, Moreno’s motherin-law, is a “rabbi.” Despite the shooter’s past antisemitic writings, Carranza wrote that she doesn’t believe Moreno was motivated by hate. “Although my former daughter-inlaw raged against Israel and Jews in a pro-Palestinian rant yesterday, this has nothing to do with Judaism or Islam,” Carranza wrote on Facebook on Monday. “We’re devastated,” Osteen said on Sunday. “We’ve been here 65 years and to have somebody shooting at your church…”

Austin Hospitalized Again

Last month, Austin spent several days at Walter Reed being treated for complications related to a recent prostate cancer surgery. The doctors said in their statement Sunday that his bladder issue “is not expected to change his anticipated full recovery” and that his cancer prognosis remained excellent. The announcements appeared to be aimed at showing transparency around Austin’s medical condition and stressed the fact that multiple top officials across the U.S. government had been informed. Austin came under widespread criticism last month after initially keeping his hospital visit a secret from top administration officials, including President Joe Biden, the White House national security adviser, the secretary of state and senior officials in the Pentagon, including those immediately under him in the office. Austin also had not informed the president that he had undergone the original surgery in December. Lawmakers called for the Pentagon to provide answers on why so many officials were kept in the dark. Biden said on Jan. 12 that he still had confidence in Austin. But when the president was asked whether it had been a lapse in judgment for Austin not to have informed him that he had been out of commission, Biden said, “Yes.” (© The New York Times)

Marines Helicopter Crash in CA The Pentagon announced Sunday that Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin had been taken to a military hospital to be treated for “symptoms suggesting an emergent bladder issue.” Doctors at the hospital later said it was not clear how long he would remain there. Austin was taken to Walter Reed National Military Medical Center in Bethesda, Maryland, at 2:20 p.m., a Pentagon spokesperson, Maj. Gen. Patrick Ryder, said in the military’s initial statement. He added that the deputy defense secretary and the chair of the Joint Chiefs of Staff had been notified, as well as the White House and members of Congress. In a second statement Sunday evening, Ryder said that Austin, 70, had “transferred the functions and duties” of his office to the deputy defense secretary, Kathleen Hicks, about 4:55 p.m. Another statement, issued late Sunday by two senior doctors at Walter Reed, said that Austin had been admitted to the hospital’s critical care unit that night after a series of tests.

During a routine training flight last Tuesday night, a helicopter carrying five U.S. Marines crashed in Southern California, killing everyone on board. Authorities are working on recovering the bodies of the five young servicemen killed in the crash: Capt. Miguel Nava, a 28-year-old from Traverse City, Michigan; Capt. Benjamin Moulton, a 27-year-old from Emmett, Idaho; Capt. Jack Casey, a 26-year-old from Dover, New Hampshire; Lance Cpl. Donovan Davis, a 21-year-old from Olathe, Kansas; and Sgt. Alec Langen, a 23-year-old from Chandler, Arizona, who was the flight’s crew chief. The victims’ loved ones were told of the tragedy on Wednesday night and Thursday morning.

FEBRUARY 15, 2024 | The Jewish Home

The Jewish Home | FEBRUARY 15, 2024

“These pilots and crew members were serving a calling greater than self and were proud to do so,” said Maj. Gen. Michael J. Borgschulte, the commanding general of the 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing. “We will forever be grateful for their call to duty and selfless service.” The helicopter, which was a CH-53E Super Stallion, had been on its way to San Diego’s Marine Corps Air Station Miramar from Creech Air Force base and had been reported overdue. The craft crashed in the remote and mountainous Pine Valley in “hazardous terrain,” thus making it difficult for officials to recover the remains of those killed in the crash, according to Col. James Ford of the 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing. Wind speeds likely peaked at over 20 mph on Tuesday evening near the location of the crash, with heavy rain and snow falling throughout Tuesday and Wednesday. The helicopter was last pinged at 11:20 PM on Tuesday, according to Cal Fire San Diego Spokesperson Mike Cornette. President Joe Biden said on Thursday that he and First Lady Jill Biden were “heartbroken” over the tragedy. “As the Department of Defense continues to assess what occurred, we extend our deepest condolences to their families, their squadron, and the U.S. Marine Corps as we grieve the loss of five of our nation’s finest warriors,” said Biden. This isn’t the first time a Super Stallion helicopter has been involved in a deadly crash. In 2016, twelve servicemembers died when two CH-53E aircraft crashed into one another during a training mission near Hawaii. In 2018, another Super Stallion crashed near El Centro, California, during a training mission, killing four.

Mexico is U.S.’s Top Exporter

According to data published by the Commerce Department recently, last year, Mexico exported more goods to the United States than any other country, dethroning China as the U.S.’s top exporter. In 2023, Mexico exported $475.6 bil-

lion worth of goods to the United States, which is 5% more than they sent in 2022. China sent $427.2 billion worth of goods to the U.S. in 2023, which is 20% less than it did a year prior. The U.S. imported $773.4 billion more than it exported in 2023 – with its trade deficit decreasing by 19% from the year before, in what is considered the U.S.’s biggest trade deficit decline in nearly 14 years. Since the U.S. dollar has recently been weakened, American goods are generally cheaper to import from other countries, which is part of the reason why the trade deficit declined last year, according to Matthew Martin, a U.S. economist who works for Oxford Economics. Brad Setser, an economist and senior fellow at the Council on Foreign Relations, asserted that the Trump administration’s tariffs on China likely played a role in last year’s decline in Chinese exports to the United States. Simultaneously, U.S. citizens have, as of late, been spending less money on electronics, which are largely produced in China, and have been using their money more for traveling and entertainment.

NY Credit Card Info Law

A new law that went into effect on Sunday requires businesses in New York to clearly post the cost of purchasing items with a credit card — including any surcharges being imposed — for customers before checkout. The law, signed by Gov. Kathy Hochul in December, also prevents businesses from imposing more in credit card surcharges than what they are charged by processing companies. Businesses can choose either to solely display the higher credit card price for the products or services they sell or to list both the credit card price and the lower cash price for the items. The new disclosure requirements will “ensure individuals can trust that their purchases will not result in surprise surcharges,” Hochul said in a statement this past week. “Transparency is crucial in building trust between businesses and communi-

FEBRUARY 15, 2024 | The Jewish Home

In a 214-213 vote, Republicans barreled past the solid opposition of Democrats and reservations in their own ranks to make Mayorkas the first sitting Cabinet secretary in U.S. history to be impeached. It amounted to a partisan indictment of President Joe Biden’s immigration policies by the GOP, which is seeking to use a surge in migration across the United States border with Mexico during his tenure as a political weapon against him and Democrats in this year’s elections.

The Jewish Home | FEBRUARY 15, 2024

Biden condemned the House’s vote in a statement Tuesday night. “History will not look kindly on House Republicans for their blatant act of unconstitutional partisanship that has targeted an honorable public servant in order to play petty political games,” he said. The vote came a week after the House rejected the charges against Mayorkas when Republicans, who control the House by a razor-thin margin, tried and failed to muster a majority to approve

ties, and now patrons will be empowered to budget accordingly,” she said. In New Jersey, Gov. Philip Murphy signed a similar law last year. A national law prohibiting merchants from charging consumers extra for credit card purchases expired four decades ago. Since then, many businesses have come to rely on so-called convenience fees as a way to offset what they are charged by credit card processing companies. Businesses were already required —

by the state and by companies such as Visa and Mastercard — to display credit card surcharge amounts at the entrances of their stores and at the point of sale, said Youssef Mubarez, director of public relations for the Yemeni American Merchants Association. “They’re making the merchants look like the enemies by calling it ‘hidden fees’ when they’re not,” Mubarez said. (© The New York Times)

Mayorkas Impeached The U.S. House of Representatives voted narrowly on Tuesday to impeach Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas in a precedent-shattering vote that charged him with willfully refusing to enforce border laws and breaching the public trust.

them. It put Mayorkas in the company of past presidents and administration officials who have been impeached on allegations of personal corruption and other wrongdoing. But the charges against him broke with history by failing to identify any such offense, instead effectively declaring the policy choices Mayorkas has carried out a constitutional crime. The approach threatened to lower the bar for impeachments — which already has fallen in recent years — reducing what was once Congress’ most potent tool to remove despots from power to a weapon to be deployed in political fights. Democrats, former secretaries of homeland security, the country’s largest police union and a chorus of constitutional law experts — including conservatives — have denounced the impeachment as a blatant attempt to resolve a policy dispute with a constitutional punishment. They said Republicans had presented no evidence that Mayorkas’ conduct rose to the level of high crimes and misdemeanors. Three Republicans — Reps. Ken Buck of Colorado, Mike Gallagher of Wisconsin and Tom McClintock of California — lined up with Democrats against the resolution. They warned that impeaching a

start the town’s traditional pancake race. At the beginning of the race and when they got to the finish line, the women had to flip their pancakes. During the race, they held their pans steady as they raced the 415-yard sprint around the town.

Radio Silence

Brett Elmore was in shock when he discovered that thieves had made off with his radio station’s 200-foot radio tower and transmitter. “I have heard of thieves in this area stealing anything, but this one takes the cake,” he said. Elmore is the general manager of WJLX. His landscaper had been doing a cleanup of the property on Friday when the crew discovered the tower was gone. Every piece of equipment and wire had been taken as well. The tower had been standing in Jasper, Alabama, since the 1950s. “This is a federal offense when you tamper with a broadcast facility. It will carry some serious prison time if we can catch who did this. I will be satisfied when that happens,” Elmore said. “But I’ll tell you one thing… You’re not going to keep me down.” Since the theft knocked the AM station off the air, WJLX petitioned for the FCC to give it a waiver to continue to broadcast on the FM station, which was still on the air. The FCC denied his request. “This has always been a radio town,” Elmore said. “People here love the radio station and have always supported it.” Still, Elmore noted the station would be “in a jam” even if it is found. “It will be in pieces. We would have to rebuild it.” Sounds like radio silence.

Flip Flap On Tuesday, scores of women in Olney, England, lined up in checkered aprons and headscarves in their sneakers, eager to start the dash. In their hands, they held frying pans with pancakes as they headed out to

The annual race began in 1445, according to legend. Now, the pancake race takes place in many towns all over the world. “It’s a horrible distance,” said Kaisa Larkas, 44, a mother of four who captured the Olney title with a time of 63.37 seconds. “You just have to go flat out and then hope that you’re not gonna fall over.… But it’s good fun.” The tradition has been repeated over the centuries — not only in Olney but in other towns in England and even in the U.S. In Liberal, Kansas, Pamela Bolivar, 19, crossed the finish line with a time of 63.03 seconds, beating out the British competitors. Would you like syrup with that?

Piggy Pedi

We know how proud pigs are of their feet, shoving their hooves out for all to see. But what to do when your pet pig’s nails are in desperate need of a pedicure? Well, you call in Carole Germain, France’s first pig pedicurist. Germain became a porcine pedicurist after seeing a need in her pet hog, Couscous. The 132-pound pet hogs her couch – and her bed. But he also had tusks and hooves that needed trimming, and Germain realized that there was a need for pig pedicurists. She trained in the Netherlands and now practices part-time. Still, it keeps her busy, and she is selling the bar she owns to work as a pig pedicurist full time. “He is ready for the beach,” she cooed after a recent client finished with her. He’s happy as a hog.

FEBRUARY 15, 2024 | The Jewish Home

Cabinet secretary for the way he did his job would weaken a weighty constitutional penalty and do nothing to address serious immigration issues. (© The New York Times)

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Community TAL North Woodmere Parlor Meeting

AL (Torah and Language) Academy is a new, first-of-its-kind school in our area for bright yeshiva children who have a diagnosed language-based learning disability such as dyslexia. Last week, TAL held a parlor meeting to raise awareness and funds. The event was held on February 5 at the home of Meir and Malka Fried. Participants heard from executive

director Rabbi Aryeh Dachs, who spoke about the importance of a school like TAL. Then they heard from the TAL principal, Mrs. Sara Taib, who shared many examples of the incredible progress experienced by the students of TAL in just a few short months since its opening in September 2023. The crowd was especially moved by a video of Chaim K., a student at TAL, who, due to his growth

at the school, had the courage and confidence to volunteer to lead the “Inkeredible Kids Tehillim Army.” Chaim committed himself to learn to read a chapter of Tehillim, which was a great personal achievement for him as well as a mark of success for the school. Finally, member of the board Andy Lauber spoke movingly about his personal experience with his daughter who had severe reading and

language challenges and was miserable until they found a school that could address her learning needs. Fortunately, we now have a yeshiva in our community to address the needs of these students. The reception was encouraging. Participants left with a clear understanding of the TAL vision and were eager to get involved.

FEBRUARY 15, 2024 | The Jewish Home

The Jewish Home | FEBRUARY 15, 2024

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DRS Parent-Son Melava Malka

he vibrant echoes of music and dance filled the atmosphere as DRS Yeshiva High School’s Annual Parent-Son Melave Malka unfolded last Motzei Shabbos. In an email addressed to the DRS family, Menahel Rabbi Yisroel Kaminetsky expressed that the essence of the Melava Malka lies in celebrating “the joy, fulfillment, and profound meaning inherent in being Jewish,” while also spotlighting the “positive Jewish energy” that the Yeshiva endeavors to instill in its talmidim through song, divrei Torah, food, and dance. This yearly gathering serves as a special occasion uniting the entire Yeshiva community—rabbeim, parents, and talmidim—to honor these cherished facets of Jewish spirit. The evening commenced with a soul-stirring kumzitz in the gym led by Rabbi Kaminetsky, accompanied by the talented musical guest Ari Boiangiu. Parents and sons harmonized in song, while screens displayed videos capturing memorable DRS events from the past year.

This year’s Melava Malka also paid tribute to Rabbi Aryeh Yudin, esteemed 12th Grade Rebbe and Dean of Students at DRS. With 22 years of dedicated service to the yeshiva, Rabbi Yudin is revered as a beloved mentor, particularly for his recent contributions to the V’Haarev Na Program, which has inspired numerous talmidim to delve into Gemara study with fervor, completing Maseches Taanis multiple times annually. A heartfelt video tribute honored Rabbi Yudin, followed by a touching musical tribute performed by his five sons. The melava malka further featured a captivating performance by the DRS Wildchords, the Yeshiva’s acclaimed acapella club, alongside a stirring rendition of the Mi Shebeirach L’Chayalim by Wildchords member Aiden Frankel. As the evening unfolded in the gym, parents and students relished in a delightful dairy buffet together. Awards were bestowed upon deserving students: the Torah Growth Award recognized those

who displayed exceptional learning aptitude in each Gemara shiur throughout the year, while the Grade-Wide Middot Awards celebrated individuals within

each grade, acknowledged by their peers for possessing exemplary character traits.

FEBRUARY 15, 2024 | The Jewish Home

The Jewish Home | FEBRUARY 15, 2024

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Rav Moshe Hillel Hirsch Visits Far Rockaway

Photos by Yoel Hecht

Rav Yaakov Bender welcomes Rav Moshe Hillel Hirsch to Yeshiva Darchei Torah

Rav Shlomo Avigdor Altusky in conversation with Rav Moshe Hillel Hirsch

Rav Moshe Hillel Hirsch delivering a shmuess to a jam-packed beis hamedrash at Yeshiva Darchei Torah

Preschool and elementary school talmidim gathered outside Yeshiva Darchei Torah to greet and hear from Rav Moshe Hillel Hirsch

t Yeshiva Darchei Torah, Rav Hirsch inspired over 3,500 talmidim and Bnei Torah from

yeshivos throughout Far Rockaway and the Five Towns, from preschool children to senior kollel yungeleit and rabbeim.

JSL Winter: Week 5 Recap

t was another incredible Sunday at the JSL by FM Home Loans, as we reached the halfway point of the season. There were some real close games this week. JSL Juniors K/P Hockey: Moshe Abittan had a HAT TRICK as Future Care Consultants defeated Maidenbaum 6 to 5. Yaakov Ruvel scored 2 goals and had 2 assists to help John’s Auto jump to an early lead but Noah Daniel caught fire for SWS, scoring 4 goals to make it a close game. John’s Auto was able to hold on to the lead, scoring 3 straight goals to win 7-5in a thriller. PIP Printing’s offense exploded with a high scoring game led by Game MVP Zack Pearlman and his stellar 7 goals. K/P Soccer: Island Roofing defeated SWS 8 to 0 behind an incredible performance from superstar Eli Chovev and shutdown goaltending from Yosef Sobel. Hillel Shulavsky celebrated his birthday with 10 saves, helping Graber Interior Design defeat Simcha Day Camp 5-2. 1st/2nd Football: Donny Grabie was the HERO for PIP Printing, scoring the GAME-WINNING Touchdown, as PIP won 6-5 over PinIt Realty in an unforgettable game, making the Superbowl look boring in comparison. Hockey 1st: Daniel Hammer of Bright Futures had the Play of the Day, sniping one topshelf from half court with 3 seconds left in the 2nd period to tie the game 2 to 2. Ezra Gruen recorded a HAT TRICK as 5TownsCentral notched another victory on the season. 2nd/3rd: Akiva Greenspan and Shmuel Langer both scored for Built By Nate and Dovid Gerson made an incredible diving stop on defense to save a goal as Built came out on top 2-0 versus CleverBee Academy. Simcha Feld was unbelievable in goal for Target Exterminating, holding a powerful Arielle Rosenblatt Interiors squad to just one goal all game, including an incredible cross crease save to keep the puck out of the net. Marciano Pediatric Dentistry and AdVenture Media went down to the wire. Marciano were up 9-8 with very little time remaining when AdVenture put a great shot on net that was snatched out of the air by goalie Mickey Benderly. Marciano then held strong to pull off the exciting win. Shmuli Berger of SDF Architect made the ESPN top ten this week with a nifty move

around the defense and score as SDF scored 8 in their win over Gourmet Glatt. 4th/5th: Marciano Pediatric Dentistry held strong, scoring 3 clutch goals at the end of the 3rd period to defeat Extreme Vent Cleaning 6-4. Tzvi Greenspan continued his amazing season in net, allowing no goals as Posh Home + Bath dominated 9-0. Daniel Treuhaft was laser focused in goal, helping Town Appliance to a hard fought win against Miller Realty. 6th/8th: Wieder Orthodontics and JNT went back and forth all game. Wieder were down 1 halfway through the 3rd period when Elchonon Brodsky tied it up. Yaakov Kopelowitz then scored 2 more to give Wieder the exciting 6-4 win. Basketball 3rd/4th: Aaron Resnick hit a buzzer beater at halftime as King Davids Contractors went on to beat Home & Stone 22-16. 5th-7th: Yosef Asher recorded a TRIPLE-DOUBLE to lead Wieder Orthodontics to an easy 36-15 win Sunday afternoon. TimePiece4Torah and 5 Towns Podiatry battled it out in a thriller, as TimePiece4Torah just barely came away with a 29-26 victory. Game Of The Week 925 Sterling and BayRock Insurance (6th-8th Hockey) played in the primetime matchup Monday night and the game did not disappoint. Tzvi Truehaft basically cleared every ball that found its way into BayRock Insurance’s zone but Yakov Noam Levine was able to find an opening a couple times to score 2 goals in regulation. BayRock Insurance scored 2 of their own as well, including a full court goal from Tzvi Treuhaft, as the game went into a shootout. In the shootout, Dovi Holzberg made an incredible stop and Yakov Levine scored his 3rd goal of the game to give 925 the exciting victory.

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FEBRUARY 15, 2024 | The Jewish Home

Reb Binyomin Carlebach, shlita, speaking at the kever of Reb Moshe Dov Stein, zt”l, on Har Hamenuchos on his 20th yahrtzeit

Chazaq welcomed the 107th precinct’s new commanding officer Captain Mo C. Tsang to their headquarters last week

Shevach Participates in “Chayal of the Day” Innitiative

hevach students, as the rest of us, are deeply affected by the war impacting Acheinu kol bais Yisrael. They conclude their davening every morning jointly saying Tehillim for their welfare and have had initiatives to support the soldiers and their families. However, the girls wanted to do even more, in order to further connect with what our “brothers” and “sisters” are going through in Eretz Yisrael. The Shevach girls recognize the mesiras nefesh of those families who have sons/ fathers/husbands away from home for long stretches, risking their lives daily for Klal Yisrael, and were looking for a way to actualize “imo anochi b’tzara.” At the same time, the Shevach administration heard about a wonderful initiative started by a Queens family, “Chayal of the Day,” which pairs up schools with communities in Eretz Yisrael. The Shevach students were eager to participate in this special program, and Shevach High

School is now paired up with a “sister city” in Eretz Yisrael – Givat Shmuel. Every day, the community sends Shevach a name, family picture, and a short description of a Chayal from Givat Shmuel. This soldier’s name and description is read aloud before the start of Tehillim, and the entire school’s learning of that day is dedicated as a zechus for the soldier. The soldier’s family picture is also hung up on a bulletin board, where throughout the day girls can write messages of chizuk to the family. At the end of the day, the messages are emailed back to the Givat Shmuel family. The messages of support, love, and admiration are certainly well appreciated by the brave families of Givat Shmuel. May all the tefillos and learning done in their zechus bring about the end of this war, with all the captives and soldiers coming home safely, and with the coming of Moshiach bimhaira v’yameinu amen!

The Jewish Home | FEBRUARY 15, 2024

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MTA Robotics Team Advances to NYC Championship Event By Pinchas Rosenfeld

TA’s Lionotics robotics team continued their dominant winning streak at last week’s First Tech Challenge robotics event. At the last event, their impressive performance granted them a highly competitive slot at the next level of the competition, called “super qualifiers.” These super qualifiers advance teams to the New York City championship and therefore are highly competitive among the best teams in New York City. The competition featured many top public and private schools from across the city that had all qualified at their previous events, and despite that, Lionotics stood out for their impressive design and execution. In their qualification matches, MTA’s Lionotics team placed 2nd out of the 30 competing teams, thanks to their impressive, fast and consistent robot that was able to win its matches. Following the qualification matches, the team joined up with two carefully selected

teammates into the semi-finals, where they were able to edge out the 3rd seat alliance to advance to the final round. After three intense matches, the robot unfortunately had a mechanical issue and lost the last match of the finals, leaving the team just short of winning the whole event. Their last match was especially impressive; despite the mechanical issues. Lionotics was even able to achieve a score that would have been the highest score for the entire New York City and Long Island, but their fierce opponents scored an even higher score than theirs, setting a new record. In addition to their impressive robot performance, the MTA Lionotics team had the opportunity to present their creations to judges, earning recognition for their exceptional work. They were awarded the “Innovate” award – an award given to a team with a unique functioning element to their robot. Lionotics was awarded this for their innovative un-powered roller for transferring game elements, a solution they arrived at after over six

other designs were built and deemed not ready for competition use. Despite their setback in finals matches, their impressive performance both on the field and presenting to judges earned the team a greatly desired seat at the New York City

championship event, scheduled to take place in March. The team – now ranked top 5% in New York City – is excited and working hard to prepare for the New York City Championship!

A Message of Faith at DRS

ast week, DRS was deeply moved by the presence of Mrs. Jennifer Airley, a mother whose son, Binyomin, gave his life defending Israel against Hamas in Gaza. Mrs. Airley’s message of faith and resilience resonated profoundly with our students as she shared Binyomin’s story and the inspiring list of aspirations he left behind. In addition to Mrs. Airley, the yeshiva was privileged to host Yoshi Rosenbluth, who took a break from fighting in Gaza to be with us. Yoshi shared his experiences

from the front lines, offering messages of hope and encouraging our students to cultivate Ahavas Yisroel and refrain from lashon hora. Both Mrs. Airley and Yoshi Rosenbluth left an indelible impact on our school community, inspiring us to honor Binyomin’s memory by embracing his values and aspirations. As we reflect on their powerful messages, we are reminded of the importance of living with purpose and kindness, even in the face of adversity.

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FEBRUARY 15, 2024 | The Jewish Home

Morah Shulamis Kalish’s pre-1A students at Yeshiva Darchei Torah celebrated their 100th day in yeshiva this year

HAFTR High School Plays in Basketball Tournament

By Matthew Schein

AFTR High School is known for its competitive athletics and talented athletes. On Friday, February 2, the HAFTR Hawks, led by Coaches Neil Weiner and Leroy Samuel, traveled to Florida to participate in Katz’s Yeshiva High School Junior Varsity Basketball Tournament. The team spent Shabbos in Boca Raton, where they were hosted by warm and welcoming families who opened their homes for this special experience. After a meaningful Shabbos, the competition began. In total, eight teams participated in the tournament representing schools from New York, New Jersey, Florida, and California. The tournament began with each team playing three games, which determined the seeding for the playoffs. The Hawks played SAR, Frisch, and DRS. Each game was filled with intensity, as

the spectators cheered on their teams, and the players brought their passion to the court. While the Hawks showed incredible sportsmanship and strength beating Frisch, the team lost to DRS and SAR, preventing them from progressing to the playoffs. Despite the loss, HAFTR continued to play games on Tuesday, February 6. First, they played against Shalhevet High School from California, and later participated in a three-point contest, where Nate Meyer won 11 points. The experience concluded with everyone watching the Championship, where SAR beat Katz in a very close game. Even with the competitive nature of this event, it was a unique opportunity for the students involved to meet each other and bond with students from different schools and backgrounds. Everyone at the tournament had a memorable experience, and the teams look forward to competing again in the future.

The Jewish Home | FEBRUARY 15, 2024

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BYAM Girls Earn a Trip to Urban Air

HALB’s fifth grade boys celebrated their initiative and success to only talk to Hashem during davening with a special breakfast

Health Month at HANC

he 1st, 3rd, 5th and 7th grades from BYAM enjoyed a fun and active morning at Urban Air in Brooklyn this week. The girls earned this exciting outing by raising money for the school’s annual walkathon fundraiser. Going on a school trip is always exciting but what made this one even more special was the “cozy” nature of the trip. The school was given free rein of the space –

they were the only ones there! The girls had the opportunity to enjoy the different activities in a warm, safe environment. Some of the activities that the girls got to experience included bumper cars, trampolines, the ropes course, the warriors course, the tubes playground, and more. The girls came back from the trip energized and ready to learn. In fact, you could say they were “flying high”!

he children in HANC’s Early Childhood Center in West Hempstead are dedicating the month of February to learning about healthy habits to ensure a long and healthy life. In their classrooms, the teachers are focusing on the different parts of the body, the functions of each part of the body, and how important it is to keep our bodies healthy. In the classroom centers, the teachers have set up exploration centers that are designed like medical offices in which the children can reenact visits to the doctor. While some children expressed apprehension about going to the doctor because of the immunizations, the teachers reassured them that these shots hurt for a second but help to protect the children from illnesses. To help the children comprehend the role of healthcare professionals, several parents came to visit the classrooms to explain how they help people take care of their bodies. The children learned so

much from the visits of pediatricians, dentists, endocrinologists and nurses and asked many thoughtful questions. HANC’s fitness coach Morah Bracha taught the children exercises that can help them keep their bodies strong and active. Before and after their “workouts,” the children had the opportunity to listen to the changes in the pace of their friend’s heartbeats by listening through a real stethoscope. In addition to doctor visits and exercise, the children also learned about healthy food choices and choosing healthy snacks as a substitute for sugary treats. As a culminating project, each child created a life-sized model of their bodies which displayed the parts of their bodies and the role of each part of the body. The children enjoyed tracing their bodies and were so proud of the final product. These young children learned valuable lessons that will hopefully lead them on the path of active, healthy life habits.

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he BACH Jewish Center recently partnered with the Orthodox Union’s Yachad to host a Shabbaton filled with social, educational and spiritual activities in honor of Jewish Disabilities Awareness, Acceptance and Inclusion Month (JDAIM). JDAIM was first inaugurated in 2009 to serve as the organized Jewish community’s celebration of North American Inclusion Month (NAIM), focused on celebrating the unique abilities and strengths that each person possesses within the framework of Jewish faith and tradition. The weekend retreat illustrates the BACH Jewish Center’s commitment to recognizing each person’s unique contribution to the broader Jewish community. The event took place over the Shabbos marking Rosh Chodesh Adar Aleph which provided community members and participants with the opportunity to celebrate the festive month in which the holiday of Purim takes place. BACH community members, Yachad members and their aides joined together for an uplifting ruach-filled Kabbalas Shabbos with special tunes for the month of Adar followed by dinner and an oneg that provided both physical and spiritual sustenance as well as hamantaschen and

a special Purim themed trivia game. They were joined by the BACH’s Rabbi Benny Berlin who shared special divrei Torah with participants. “Inclusion is grounded within Jewish faith ever since Avraham – the first Jew – opened up the four walls of his tent, inviting all those passing by to enter,” said Rabbi Benny Berlin on Shabbos. “Later, when Moshe Rabbeinu gave Bnei Yisrael the Torah, it specified that he came down the mountain in order to address everyone together so that Klal Yisrael would be united in their moral and spiritual commitment to Hashem’s commandments. We are so happy to be able to celebrate JDAIM once again with Yachad, in what has now slowly become the BACH’s new annual minhag.” On Shabbos morning, the group joined in the BACH’s minyan followed by a delicious lunch. Shabbos concluded with a musical Havdalah in the shul led by Rabbi Berlin and some of the synagogue’s musically talented congregants, with the Yachad members singing and dancing along. Following Havdalah, the group spontaneously broke out in song and dance, singing, “MiShenichnas Adar marbim b’simcha.”

Did you know? The Long Island Railroad is the oldest railroad in the U.S. that still uses its original name. (It was founded in 1834.)

FEBRUARY 15, 2024 | The Jewish Home

BACH Jewish Center Partners with Yachad

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HAFTR Participates in Empty Glass Training Program

The Jewish Home | FEBRUARY 15, 2024

By Kayla Jakubowitz

T Scores of women gathered at Aish Kodesh last week for a panel event, “Raising Children with Today’s Challenges.” The panel was led by Rabbi Kalman Fogel. Panelists included Rabbi Yisroel Kaminetsky, Rabbi Tzvi Krigsman, Rabbi Avraham Robinson, Rabbi Shmuel Strickman, and Rabbi Mordechai Yaffe.

Mercaz Academy Early Childhood Students Learn To Code

n an increasingly tech-oriented world, even the youngest students at Plainview’s Mercaz Academy use technology to make learning fun. On Monday, the four-year-olds in Nursery Bet continued their coding lessons, focusing on QR codes and how they work. They accomplished this with the aid of Bee-Bots, adorable robots designed to teach very young students about sequencing, directionality, and problem-solving. The children of Nursery Bet often program the Bee-Bots to move around a grid on a mat to answer questions, work with simple numbers, and learn coding concepts like debugging. Under the direction of Lynda Last, Director of Educational Technology at Mercaz, the Nursery Bet students used iPad scanners to read personalized QR codes. Each individual QR code opened a web page with a specific instruction to program a Bee-Bot to navigate to a certain color on the grid. Nursery Bet students activated the voice feature on the page to hear which color in the grid to visit, counted the number of squares to move the Bee-Bot in each direction to

his week, I had the privilege of stepping into the role of an ambassador for the Empty Glass Society (EGS). Founded by students, the EGS is dedicated to raising awareness among high schoolers about the perils of underage drinking and substance abuse. Their approach emphasizes open dialogue and understanding of these issues. Through outreach efforts spanning high schools, universities, and community events, the EGS has disseminated its message effectively, bringing sensitivity to a variety of age groups and backgrounds. It is a tremendous opportunity for HAFTR to be

able to participate in such a crucial educational initiative. Becoming an ambassador involves an invigorating journey, where students acquire invaluable skills to aid individuals grappling with substance abuse. Throughout the training session, we delved into the nuances of being a supportive friend and being attuned to the needs of others. This comprehensive training equips ambassadors with the knowledge and strategies necessary to offer assistance and guidance to those facing substance abuse challenges. HAFTR students look forward to continued collaboration with EGS and hope to continue spreading its life-saving message.

Brachos Week at HAFTR

reach that color, and programmed the Bee-Bot accordingly. The activity generated lots of enthusiasm from the excited children, who love directing the BeeBots, and they were largely successful in programming them to reach their desired color. As they learn coding, Nursery Bet students are confident and enabled in the world in which they live…as well as ready to assist their parents and grandparents in their own struggles with technology.

AFTR Lower School students just wrapped up Bracha Week, a week devoted to strengthening knowledge and the practice of reciting brachot! The school was divided into four teams. Throughout the week, students filled out daily checklists to earn points for their teams and practiced for the grand finale which was an exciting Bracha Tournament! First and second grade students went head-to-head, as did their counterparts in third through fifth grade, in a spirited competition to showcase their knowledge of brachot. Mashgiach Ruchani of the Lower School, Rabbi Asher Klein, orchestrated the event challenging students with a variety of food items to identify the corresponding brachot rishonot and acharonot. From familiar treats like cookies to more challenging items like mushrooms, students eagerly participated in the closely contested battle. The event not only provided an opportunity for friendly competition but also allowed students to cheer on their

peers and deepen their understanding of this fundamental aspect of Judaism. The red team was victorious in the overall competition, and every student gained a tremendous amount through the learning, excitement, and overall feeling that was felt throughout the building. It was a memorable experience that further enriched the students’ connection to the mitzvah of saying brachot.

Around the Community

More than 100 people joined in American Friends of Yeshivot Bnei Akiva’s (AFYBA) efforts to support Israel during this war. Seen here are the Posner family from Woodmere, NY, and the Wiesel family from Edison, NJ, packing oranges in Pa’amei Tashaz, Israel.

Exciting News at MTA

t is with great excitement that MTA announces their new leadership plan to bring them to new heights. It is well known that an extensive search was carried out, and many candidates were considered, but sometimes, the best plan is already almost in place. MTA is fortunate to have excellent leaders, rebbeim and administrators who deeply care about the mission of the school and its success. Rabbi Shimon Schenker has been in MTA for over 20 years and has most recently been serving as Menahel of the yeshiva. As the school is continuing to show great strength, it made perfect sense to keep Rabbi Schenker in his current role. To support Rabbi Schenker and lead alongside him, Rabbi Daniel Konigsberg is advancing from his position as Associate Principal to Principal. Together, this dynamic duo will lead MTA to the next level, and beyond. Rabbi Schenker and Rabbi Konigsberg have different and complementary strengths that are already seen daily in yeshiva. Rabbi Schenker is comfortable with the culture of MTA and is very well respected by everyone involved with the yeshiva. He is not only a talmid chacham but also someone

who is able to manage the many aspects of running the day-to-day operations of the yeshiva with vision, knowledge and expertise. Rabbi Konigsberg has made incredible advances since joining MTA five years ago. He brings tremendous passion to his job and is well-liked and respected by the talmidim, faculty and parent body. He has swiftly climbed the ranks, and everyone in the yeshiva sees why. He is able to find the unique quality in every talmid which enables them to shine. The new administration will be serving along MTA’s long-standing Rosh Yeshiva, Rabbi Michael Taubes, shlita. He continues to inspire the yeshiva with his shiurim, provide guidance to the rebbeim and staff, and serve as the yeshiva’s posek in all areas of halacha. Each member of the MTA administration has built their careers around focusing on the growth and development of each and every student. They are looking forward to continuing the long standing mission of MTA to develop each talmid to maximize his Torah growth alongside his academic development to reach for the stars and engage the world as a true ben Torah.

FEBRUARY 15, 2024 | The Jewish Home

The kindergarten classes of the Ganger Early Childhood Center at TAG celebrated the completion of their brachos unit with a Brachos Fair. The talmidos did a special project and got a yummy treat for each bracha!

The Jewish Home | FEBRUARY 15, 2024

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JCCRP Hosts Domestic Violence Training Session for Staff

Four-year-nursery students at Lev Chana painted doughnuts in the style of artist Wayne Thiebaud

Yeshiva University High School for Girls Shabbaton

ll staff members at Jewish Community Council of the Rockaway Peninsula (JCCRP) attended a domestic violence training session onsite on Monday, February 12. Presenter Fay Wilber, LCSW, from The Jewish Board, spoke with staff about the three categories of people that can be abused:

A children, adults, and elders. She also laid out the four types of abuse that victims experience and how to properly notice and address each type. JCCRP staff came away from the workshop empowered, with new knowledge and tools to address cases of domestic violence.

return from an extended break is a perfect time for a Shabbaton. It gives a community the chance to reconvene and share enthusiasm for the semester ahead. With this in mind, the Yeshiva University High School for Girls held its first Shabbaton of the semester in West Hempstead on February 9 and 10. The genesis of this Shabbaton was a bit different from the norm – the event was coordinated by Central’s Leadership Track, a new initiative launched in partnership with Yeshiva University’s Rabbi Lord Jonathan Sacks-Herenstein Center for Values and Leadership. Based on the idea that leadership is less a natural talent and more a learned asset acquired with experience and effort, the track is designed to nurture students who are interested in becoming leaders within their community. Planning an event as elaborate as a Shabbaton is a tall order – which made it the perfect opportunity for the Leadership Track, comprised of Central Student Ambassadors, members of the school’s Government Organization (G.O.), and Central F.I.R.E (Friends Inspiring Religious Engagement) Fellows, to gain event-planning experience. “We wanted the girls to get as involved as possible,” said Judaic Studies Department faculty member and Central Programming Director, Mrs. Yael Axelrod. “The hope was that the event showcased the amazing student leaders Central has.” The Shabbaton began on Friday with a dinner followed by a schoolwide Oneg at the home of Central Dean of Students, Mrs. Aliza Gewirtz, offering singing, games, food, and bonding. After shul on Shabbat morning, Leadership Track students were treated to Kiddush and an address by special guest Rabbi Ari Rockoff, the David Mitzner Community Dean

for Values and Leadership at YU. West Hempstead-based faculty members then hosted students in their homes for lunch. The afternoon of Shabbat took place at the Young Israel of West Hempstead and featured a shiur, open to the community, by Mrs. Axelrod. The Shabbaton concluded with seudat shlishit, where the wider Central community, including current students, mothers, alumnae, and eighthgrade applicants, gathered together. The track’s involvement in the planning of this Shabbaton only made it more meaningful for all participants. “We divided the jobs among ourselves,” said senior Sari Beer. “We planned games, we made song sheets. It was really fun.” The Leadership Track is an innovation that has made a big impact on Central culture this academic year. “Something really special about this track is the fact that the girls are self-selected,” Mrs. Axelrod added. “They applied to the program on their own initiative. They are here because they want to be here – they want to develop these skills to become better leaders.” Senior Esti Goldberg agreed: “This was a new opportunity to plan something for our peers,” she said. “People were waitresses for the events, people made centerpieces for the tables – we did everything. It was different than anything we’ve ever done.”

FEBRUARY 15, 2024 | The Jewish Home

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Siach Yitzchok talmidim enjoying their time in the snow on the rooftop play area

Ambassador David Friedman and his wife Tammy were honored at the Young Israel of Cedarhurst dinner. The Village of Cedarhurst presented a Citation of Honor with Trustee Dan Plaut

Considering Relocation? Don’t Miss the Orthodox Union’s Savitsky Home Relocation Fair, Sunday, March 3

egistration is now open for the ninth Orthodox Union (OU) Savitsky Home Relocation Fair, which will take place on Sunday, March 3. The program was established in 2008, by then-OU President Stephen Savitsky. He and his wife, Genie, continue to generously fund the program, which now bears their name. Young families, retirees, empty-nesters, singles, newly married couples, and all others considering relocation will have the opportunity to visit 54 booths representing more than 60 Orthodox Jewish communities from 23 states and provinces from North America. Like the previous fair in 2022, it will be a virtual platform enabling attendees to participate from the comfort of their homes. From Albany, N.Y., to Orlando, Fla., to Portland, Ore., or to Highland Park, N.J., this year’s fair will be the largest yet. Understanding the importance of Aliyah, which is on the minds of many fair participants and encouraged by the Orthodox Union, the fair will highlight sponsors that deal with Aliyah, such as Nefesh B’Nefesh, CapitIL Real Estate Agency and OU Israel. Rebbetzin Judi Steinig, OU Senior Director of Community Projects & Partnerships, who coordinates the fair, notes, “The event’s objectives are to enable growth of religious communities, and to highlight affordable geographic al-

ternatives that offer both the amenities of an Orthodox Jewish lifestyle and an enhanced quality of life, such as reduced living costs, larger residences, and shorter work commutes.” The fair is being hosted on an exciting virtual platform that will provide an educational as well as enjoyable experience, and attendees will be able to move through the fair as they would in a virtual reality setting. “Participants will enter a beautiful virtual venue complete with Orthodox-looking avatars walking around,” Rebbetzin Steinig says. “The lobby will have a number of large signs, each linking to an expo hall with smaller street signs, to direct people to their desired destinations.” The online format also offers more streamlined discretion for those who may have private issues to discuss, such as a child’s special needs or recent unemployment. There is no charge to attend the event. “In addition to making the fair accessible to people worldwide, connecting with community representatives online will free attendees from arranging for childcare,” Rebbetzin Steinig says. The fair spans nine hours, and participants may stay for as short or as long as they wish. Private appointments with community representatives may be made prior to, during, and after the event.

Highlights of the fair will include brief videos showcasing communities, e-brochures available for immediate downloads and discussion groups on topics of interest to participants. The fair will also feature a virtual auditorium that will provide more resources on aliyah, financial planning, and other important aspects of relocation. When registering for the fair, individuals are encouraged to complete a brief survey detailing their demographics, reasons for possible relocation, field of employment, and the stream of Orthodoxy with which they most identify. Currently, the OU is offering all registrants a $5 discount on the fair’s accompanying 2024 Orthodox Jewish Community Guide, available both in print copy and PDF formats, which sells for $15. The 64-page color booklet profiles all 2024 communities and sponsors, and is an invaluable resource for anyone considering relocation. Given the importance of researching

communities before making an actual move, the OU’s Community Relocation Fair is a one-stop shop for anyone considering a change. “You need to consider which communities are hashkafically appropriate for your family,” says Rabbi Simon Taylor, National Director of the OU’s Department of Community Projects & Partnerships. “You want to find a place where you will feel comfortable, in addition to considering factors such as the weather and the distance to loved ones. Besides the fun and excitement of the fair, the most important objective is that it is an effective tool. People are interested in moving for many different reasons, and communities are interested in growing, and we’re doing our best to help facilitate a shidduch.” For more information about the communities and to register for the fair, please visit www.ou.org/fair.

Did you know? Charles Lindbergh’s famous flight – the first solo, nonstop transatlantic flight in human history – took off from Roosevelt Field in Long Island.

FEBRUARY 15, 2024 | The Jewish Home

The Jewish Home | FEBRUARY 15, 2024

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Shalom Task Force Celebrates Thirty Years of Helping Our Community

halom Task Force’s 30th anniversary brunch saw an overwhelming turnout, with over 300 attendees gathered to honor Guest of Honor Esther Williams and Next Gen Leadership Awardees Hannah Feldschreiber and Gabi Zahavi. The event was a resounding success, showcasing the unwavering support for STF’s mission to address critical issues within the community. The morning commenced with opening remarks by Dr. Shana Frydman, CEO of Shalom Task Force. Dr. Frydman emphasized the crucial role STF plays in the community fabric, stating, “Shalom Task Force is a necessary part of the fabric of our community. We need agencies that address the hardest of issues so that

when we or they need help, we are here.” Elected officials, recognizing the importance of STF, shared their insights during the event. Assemblymember Stacey Pfeffer Amato spoke passionately about her family’s longstanding support for STF, tracing back three decades to her mother’s initial involvement. Last year, STF honored Assemblymember Amato for her exemplary service and advocacy for victims. Nassau County Legislature’s presiding officer Howard Kopel and County Executive Bruce Blakeman addressed the group and described their respect for the agency and announced a groundbreaking grant of $100,000 to further support STF’s vital work in Nassau County.

A moving video retrospective on the last 30 years of STF set the stage for the presentation of the Next Gen Leadership Award to Hannah Feldschreiber and Gabi Zahavi, co-presidents of the Young Leadership Board and seniors at SAR High School and Central respectively. They too were honored for their exceptional contributions to STF. Rabbi Larry Rothwachs, rav of Congregation Beth Aaron in Teaneck, delivered Divrei Bracha and spoke about the remarkable achievements of the guest of honor, Esther Williams, a founding board member and current co-president of the board. Founding Board Member Aviva Hoch presented the award to Esther Williams in recognition of her sig-

nificant contributions. The event concluded with closing remarks from Rachel Marks, co-president of the board, who expressed gratitude for the community’s steadfast support and highlighted the impactful work accomplished by STF over the years. “Shalom Task Force was born in response to the needs of the community by the community and Shalom Task Force continues to meet the needs of the community through your support.”

Shulamith Annual Dinner

he Shulamith family is looking forward to joining together next Motzei Shabbat, February 24, at the Seawane Country Club. Our Dinner is an opportunity to join together as a school, as a family and as a community, to show our hakaras hatov and take pride in our tremendous accomplishments. The evening promises to be a memorable experience to benefit our school and to recognize our Guests of Honor, Dr. Ari and Mrs. Ruchi Turner, and our Educator of the Year, Rabbi Heshy Blumstein.

Dr. and Mrs. Ari Turner Dr. and Mrs. Turner are a dynamic couple known throughout the Shulamith family, their Cedarhurst community and beyond for their active involvement and commitment to chesed and community.

Dr. Turner is an emergency room physician, dedicating his expertise and professional life to helping others. Mrs. Turner volunteers as the Vice President of the Shulamith Women’s Organization, where she spends countless hours playing a key role in planning, spearheading and running programs and various school initiatives. Her commitment to community service extends beyond Shulamith, through her involvement in Kehilas Ahavas Yisroel as a member of the Welcoming Committee and her work for Achiezer stocking the Achiezer Bikur Cholim room at Winthrop Hospital. Dr. and Mrs. Turner are active participants in numerous other community-focused initiatives, demonstrating their focus on making a positive impact within the larger community. Dr. and Mrs. Turner are proud parents of four daughters, all beloved Shulamith students. The Turners chose Shulamith for their family because of the emphasis placed on nurturing the academic and personal growth of their daughters. They feel deeply connected to Shulamith’s values that embody what it means to be a Bat Yisrael — with an emphasis on Torah

education, Eretz Yisrael, and taking responsibility as an active member of Klal Yisrael. Dr. and Mrs. Turner’s presence in the Cedarhurst community and involvement in Shulamith extends to the heart of the community itself. Through their combined efforts in healthcare, community service, and education, the Turners exemplify the spirit of giving back and making a difference in the lives of those around them. We are grateful beyond words that the Turners have agreed to accept this honor, and are tremendously appreciative of their continued efforts on behalf of Shulamith.

Rabbi Heshy Blumstein Rabbi Heshy Blumstein has had the honor of teaching Torah to Jews of all

ages, yet finds his greatest passion in teaching young adults, the future leaders of our people. Rabbi Blumstein has been a beloved mechanech at Shulamith High School for over six years, teaching Chumash, Navi, Parsha and Pirkei Avot. Rabbi Blumstein brings his trademark simcha and enthusiasm for Torah learning into his classroom and the halls of Shulamith High School every day. Rabbi Heshy Blumstein serves as the Rav of Kehillas Yismach Moshe of Woodmere and directs the Amudyomi5t program from his shul. He is the director of the executive learning program for Olami NYC and is a mashpia for the Thank you Hashem Movement. He is also the director of the executive learning program for the Jewish Enrichment Center in NYC. Previously, Rabbi Blumstein was the rabbi of the Young Israel of Hewlett for 18 years. He studied in the great Mirrer Yeshiva in Eretz Yisrael and received his semicha from Yeshivat ITRI. We are so fortunate that the Shulamith students have been able to benefit from his Torah knowledge, warmth and joy, and to be able to honor Rabbi Blumstein as Educator of the Year.

FEBRUARY 15, 2024 | The Jewish Home

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Touro’s Lander College for Women Teams Up with AJC to Train Students in Advocacy

earning the skills needed to enter one’s chosen career is the basis of a college education but in today’s society, students need more than professional training to succeed in the world and the workplace. Whether or not they want to be spokespeople for the community, Jews are going to be asked questions when current events focus on Israel. To prepare students for this role , Lander College for Women (LCW) has teamed up with the American Jewish Committee (AJC) to offer a joint advocacy program that trains students on the most effective ways to speak up for Israel and other issues of importance to the Jewish world. The program is the brainchild of Lander College for Women Dean Marian Stoltz-Loike and Dr. Laura Shaw Frank and Dr. Alexandra Herzog of the AJC. Together, they recognized that although students are in a safe, supportive environment within the Touro LCW community, they are certain to encounter people who have questions about Israel and others who espouse anti-Israel and antisemitic views, whether in the professional world, in their personal relationships, or on social media. Students needed to be trained in how to respond to false narratives, misleading statistics and hateful rhetoric. “The last few months have underscored the need for Jewish leaders who can communicate clearly, articulately and effectively regarding Israel and the Jewish community,” Dean Stoltz-Loike said. “This unique AJC-LCW advocacy program provides our students with the

advocacy skills they need as future Jewish leaders in their communities and beyond.” Perhaps the most surprising thing about the program is that it was launched at the start of the 2022-23 fall semester, more than a year before Hamas’ Oct. 7 attack on Israel. “A number of students assumed that it was created to combat the anti-Israel sentiment that has emerged since the start of the war,” according to LCW Director of Fellowships Dr. Julie Golding, who oversees the program. “It wasn’t on everyone’s radar last year, but now everybody understands why it’s so important. We don’t have to sell it to anybody.” Learning the Basics of Advocacy and Diplomacy This year, there are a dozen students in the program, which is broken into three phases: The first is during the fall semester when senior AJC staff members teach the students basic advocacy and diplomacy skills. The students learn best practices for communicating with friends, coworkers and neighbors on issues related to Israel and the Jewish community, as well as how to reach out to elected officials. The second phase, which will begin in the next few weeks, is for the students to turn around and impart the skills they have learned to 11th graders from local yeshiva high schools, over the course of three training sessions. “One of our main goals is to guide the Touro students to be able to mentor and educate the high schoolers,” said Dr. Shaw Frank, director of the AJC’s Wil-

Talya Stauber, student government president at Touro’s Lander College for Women, speaks with Eric Dinowitz, NYC City Councilman, at Advocacy Day

liam Petschek Contemporary Jewish Life Department. “This adds another level to their advocacy education.” The final phase will be later in the spring, when the students from LCW and Yeshiva high schools will come together for a joint advocacy day and meet with foreign diplomats, elected officials, and AJC leadership to learn about the challenges they face and to practice their new skills and learn how they can be most effective in supporting the Jewish community. “We are thrilled to be partnering for the second year in a row with Lander College for Women at Touro University,” said Dr. Herzog, who serves as the deputy director of the department. “In this particularly crucial time, we must equip young Jews to counter antisemitism and anti-Israel rhetoric with knowledge, advocacy skills, and renewed Jewish pride rooted in Jewish values. By investing in Orthodox women and girls, we ensure a diverse and robust future for Jewish advocacy.” Antisemitism on Social Media One point that the AJC staff emphasized during the training sessions: Don’t respond to virulent posts or comments online or on social media. “If somebody posts something antisemitic, just don’t

answer that; don’t attack them directly online,” according to Chaya Nessa Krycer, an LCW honors student, who is part of the program. “Because talking to people when you don’t know who they are and they don’t know you, you’re never going to convince them and it’s not going to be a productive discussion. It’s better to talk face-to-face.” At the end of the day, for Chaya Nessa, at least, the skills they are learning in the program will be beneficial to Israel and Jewish causes long after the conflict is over. “With the war going on, we have a tangible subject to focus on for our advocacy, and that’s what we’ve been working on so far,” she said. “But it’s really about how you advocate for your beliefs, whatever they may be, without making other people get defensive or feel silenced. That’s how you get people to consider what you have to say.” And for Dean Stoltz Loike, this training is an essential part of her students’ education. “Most of our student realize they’ll be encountering many different perspectives when they leave Touro and those who’ve had this advocacy training will be well-positioned to interact effectively, thoughtfully and respectfully.”

Did you know? “Long Island” iced tea was actually invented in Kingsport, Tennessee.

FEBRUARY 15, 2024 | The Jewish Home

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Cedarhurst’s New Snow Machine

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Shulamith ECC celebrated Rosh Chodesh Adar by dressing up in silly hats

A Winning Week at Ezra

T E

zra Academy is home to a legal studies honor society affectionately nicknamed the Legal Eagles. Students have many opportunities in the legal studies program. Classes are offered in the areas of criminal justice, business law, constitutional law, comparative law, public speaking and argumentation, to name a few. These classes are content-based with practical application as students try cases in their very own courtroom experiencing a taste of trial advocacy. These classes are part of the law and business track in the majors program at Ezra that begins in ninth grade. Additionally, students are invited to do internships in legal settings during senior year. Often, they are placed with Ezra alumni currently in practice, which adds an exciting dimension to the experience. Another amazing aspect of the legal studies program is the recent addition of the ECCP, a program that allows high school students the ability to complete a substantial amount of college credits while in the 11th and 12th grade giving them an early entrance ramp to

law school should they choose that life journey. Some of the students in the legal studies program are there just to enjoy and learn something they won’t be tackling in higher education. To that end, many students join initially to be a part of the numerous extracurricular activities and clubs associated with the Ezra Legal Eagles. Just this past week, under the leadership of one of the newest additions to the Ezra faculty, Jeremy Siegel, Esq., the Ezra Academy debate team of Rivkah Gavrielov and Nathaniel Chanimov secured first place team at a large debate. In the same week, the mock trial team defeated Richmond Hills in round one of this year’s state tournament. (Mr. Siegel, Esq. assisted with that as well.) Finally, although they are not part of the Legal Eagles, notice should be taken that the Ezra Nights chess team (led by Mr. Lenny Morochnick and accompanied by Rabbi Hershel Praeger) defeated HANC as they celebrated the first victory of the week paving the way for a week of winning. Great job all around!

he Village of Cedarhurst and the Business Improvement District (BID) are proud to announce their collaborative effort in acquiring a stateof-the-art enclosed snow machine to enhance sidewalk maintenance within the community. The snow machine, operated by the Village, quickly clears snow from the main sidewalks, leaving only the smaller detail work and salting for the merchants. Deputy Mayor Ari Brown, who has served as the village board representative to the BID for 26 years, expressed enthusiasm for the initiative, stating, “This will help our merchants be more productive, and most importantly, help reduce any slip and fall incidents for our patrons and residents.”

Mayor Benjamin Weinstock emphasized the significance of government, business, and residents working together, asserting, “There is no better government than small government. This collaborative effort exemplifies the strength that arises when local entities unite for the benefit of the entire community.” The enclosed snow machine, a testament to the proactive approach taken by the Village of Cedarhurst and the BID, aims to improve safety during winter months, creating a more accessible environment for residents and promoting a thriving business district. Trustee Dan Plaut is currently on site, assisting and managing the crew on behalf of the board.

Get 2 Mitzvos on Purim

or the past few years, the women of the Sisterhood of the Young Israel of Far Rockaway have been packaging beautiful, professional-style mishloach manos for friends and family to enjoy. Everyone loves the many delicious treats presented in the most elegant packaging, and it has really enhanced our community’s simchas Purim! This year, in light of the grave situation in Eretz Israel, the cost of one beautiful mishloach manos package will

be $40, which will include a $4 contribution to help support the Givat Ze’ev Rapid Response Team. This donation will go directly to the purchase of tactical equipment gear according to the needs of Israel’s security forces. For more information, and to place an order, please call Shira Jacobson 516-672-4232 or Deborah Addi 718-3546855. This is a most worthy Purim campaign, and we hope everyone will join us!

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February 14 - February 20

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YCQ’s 4th Grade Hosts Beautiful Melavei Malka

Morah Sarah Tepper’s kindergarten students at Yeshiva Darchei Torah are seen exploring their light unit

he 4th grade boys of YCQ participated in a beautiful Melava Malka on Motzei Shabbos, February 3, while the 4th grade girls had an inspiring event of their own the following week on February 10. The boys and their families enjoyed a delicious dinner and a performance by the students. The highlight of the night came when the talmidim had the opportunity to make their very own tzitzit! Students connected to this special mitzvah like never before and even had the chance to make extra pairs for chayalim in Israel. The girls’ event was just as spectacular. Students heard an inspiring story from Mrs. Amit Yaghoubi and created stunning boxes for birchonim. The night ended with an incredible performance by the students which featured a moving rendition of the Mi Sheberach for Tzahal.

Divrei Soferim New from Maggid Books A division of Koren Publishers Jerusalem

O Throughout the song, the talmidot held up signs with names of chayalim connected to the YCQ family including alumni and relatives of faculty. Special thank you to all of the students, parents, teachers, administrators, and guests who made both nights so memorable.

ver decades of teaching Torah and in thousands of shiurim, Rabbi Hershel Schachter, shlit”a, has covered and taught the breadth and depth of Torah. One major theme that reverberates throughout his teachings is the centrality and role of Torah Shebe’al Peh, the Oral Torah. For the very first time, Rabbi Schachter presents in one volume the teachings of our Sages from across the generations, together with his own personal approach, regarding the Torah Shebe’al Peh, the halachic process, and the importance of the mesorah, the rabbinic tradition. Rabbi Hershel Schachter, one of the leading talmudic scholars of our generation, has had a distinguished career with RIETS for over fifty years. At age twenty-two, Rabbi Schachter was appointed assistant to the renowned Rabbi Joseph B. Soloveitchik zt”l. He joined the faculty in 1967, at the age of twenty-six, the youngest rosh yeshivah at RIETS. Since 1971, Rabbi Schachter has been rosh kollel in RIETS’ Marcos and Adina Katz Kollel and also holds the institution’s Nathan and Vivian Fink Distinguished Professorial Chair in Talmud. In addition to his teaching duties, Rabbi Schachter lectures, writes, and serves as a world-re-

nowned decisor of Jewish Law. A prolific author, he has written more than 100 articles, in Hebrew and English, for such scholarly publications as HaPardes, Hadarom, Beis Yitzchak, and Or Hamizrach. His published volumes include Eretz HaTzvi, B’ikvei HaTzon, Ginas Egoz, and Nefesh HaRav, MiPninei HaRav, and Divrei HaRav.

FEBRUARY 15, 2024 | The Jewish Home

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Around the Community

Hate Crimes Training with JCCRP and RNSP

ate and hate crimes, once merely a threat, are visible now more than ever. Within this reality, it is incumbent on all of us to adapt and respond in a manner that combats it fiercely and keeps us safe. Rising to the occasion, the Jewish Community Council of the Rockaway Peninsula (JCCRP) and the RNSP (Shomrim) partnered to address the issue head-on with a training event last Tuesday, February 6, 2024. The JCCRP is an organization that has been at the forefront of advocacy for the Jewish community and its neighbors for decades. They feed hundreds of families, connect people to various needed social services and government resources, and personally deliver meals to the hundreds of local holocaust survivors, in addition to a host of other services they provide. Their inclusive model of helping engenders feelings of comradery and trust between the Jewish community and their neighbors who live and work here. This inclusive model and the JCCRP’s long-cultivated relationships with other community partners has helped our community to experience less of the abrupt changes that other communities have felt since the October 7th massacre in Israel. However, antisemitism remains an issue that requires educating all relevant and interested parties in how to identify and respond to hate crimes. The parties in attendance at this training event included the Hate Crimes Bureau of Queens District Attorney Melinda Katz’s office, the NYPD, RNSP, JCCRP, Community Security Initiative, or CSI (a subsidiary of JCRC of New York and the UJA Federation of NY), and the Anti-Defamation League (ADL) of New York and New Jersey. Mrs. Allison Deal, the Executive Director of the JCCRP, joined up with the RNSP to bring all of these parties together, creating a

unified approach toward combating and responding to hate crimes by co-hosting one of the several trainings given to RNSP members throughout the year. Michael Brovner, chief of the Hate Crimes Bureau of the Queens District Attorney’s office, gave an expert presentation on what legally constitutes a hate crime, how to identify it, and how to report it. Among the organizations listed above, the following NYPD personnel also participated in this training event: 101st Precinct Commanding Officer Cpt. Timothy Schultz, 101st Precinct Executive Officer Cpt. Darnell Simon, 101 Special Operations Lt. Ryan O’shea and his Public Safety team, NCO Sgt. Robert Luckman and his NCO team, Community Affairs Det. Lynn Blanchette and Officer Jamaal Arthur, and NYPD Community Affairs Inspector Richie Taylor. This joint and vital training session ensures that all levels of the police department, the DA’s office, and the community are on the same page when it comes to adequately addressing hate crimes. Cpt. Simon spent many assignments at the various protests that are going on around the city. He gets a clear view and hands-on education on what is out there. He is a great person to have regularly stationed here as part of the leadership of our local precinct. Cpt. Schultz, a proven friend of the community, feels especially confident that he is working with the right people. As the horrific news of the events of October 7th made its way to our area, Cpt. Schultz immediately notified the RNSP and activated the appropriate response to protect our community, which had been proactively planned in the event of such a circumstance. This is another demonstration of the benefit and need for proactive planning, community outreach/education, and partnership

with all levels of law enforcement. Det. Blanchette and Officer Arthur along with the 101st Precinct’s Community Affairs Team are amazing partners who bridge any gap between community and police. The special ops and NCO teams root out hate crimes along with all the other aspects of day-to-day policing that they engage in. It was an honor to have NYPD Community Affairs Inspector Richie Taylor address the joint training session. He spoke glowingly of the work that the RNSP has done for the community in partnership with local law enforcement and a host of other community organizations. The Commanding Officer of the 101st Precinct, Cpt. Timothy Schultz also addressed those in attendance. He was very pleased with the partnership between his department, the JCCRP and the RNSP. Having all these partners at the training session ensures that the response to hate is unified, be it on the streets or in the court room. RNSP members are the added set of eyes and ears that work with multiple local law enforcement precincts in Nassau County and the Rockaways. The RNSP has received an increased number of calls to its hotline regarding hate crimes, perceived hate crimes, and hateful and seemingly hateful graffiti and vandalism. Their response and collaboration with local law enforcement demands a full understanding of how to differentiate between that which is legally a hate crime from that which appears to be such, whether the case involves a physical assault, threat, verbal interaction, theft, or vandalism. This training puts the RNSP on the same page with the abovementioned parties. The training event with the RNSP honored two of its members: Izzy Sicher-

man, who bravely fought terror and hate in Gaza, and Yossi Kohn, for all of his time and efforts serving the community. The ADL and CSI (Community Security Initiative) are on the front lines operating to ensure our communities’ safety and security. At the joint training event, the RNSP honored the efforts of Mitchell Silber, Seth Goodstein, and Liron Filiby of CSI for all they do to help our community and for securing funding for the RNSP to gear up their members to stay safe on the streets as they keep the community safe day and night. A delicious dinner spread was served at the gathering. Much thanks to the White Shul for providing their space for this important session. Thank you to JCRC-NY and the Partners Against Hate (PATH) Forward initiative to help combat bias-motivated incidents and hate crimes in NYC. JCCRP is grateful for their partnership to ensure the community works in coordination with local police and the RNSP to combat hate crimes. The ABNY Foundation prioritizes programs that safeguard the public from crime and is a proud partner of this initiative to combat hate, increase safety for all residents by promoting the importance of reporting hate crimes, and fostering communal relationships to promote unity and safety. The next phase of this joint effort between the JCCRP and the RNSP (Shomrim) is to educate the community on what constitutes a hate crime and the importance of reporting them. The JCCRP and Shomrim will continue to maintain dialogue with the community, its leaders, and organizations in an effort to keep the community a safe and peaceful to live and do business.

FEBRUARY 15, 2024 | The Jewish Home

The Jewish Home | FEBRUARY 15, 2024

Around the Community

Remarkable Achdus at Upcoming Dirshu Convention, as Gedolei Yisrael and Lomdei Dirshu Representing All Shevatim in Klal Yisrael Gather Together By Chaim Gold

very Dirshu Convention is a unique spiritual experience, but this year’s convention will have an added dimension – a special, Thursday night, historic Grand Siyum, the first siyum in the inaugural machzor of the new Amud HaYomi program. The Grand Siyum on Masechta Brachos, the first masechta in Shas, will be held at the Armon Hotel in Stamford, Connecticut on 13 Adar I/February 22. This singular event, to be held on Thursday night at the outset of the Convention, will be a first in Dirshu Convention history. The siyum will celebrate the new “Yomi” that has taken Klal Yisrael by storm with tens of thousands of participants the world over. Numerous leading Gedolei Yisrael will address the siyum. There will also be a siyum on Masechta Bava Kama in the Daf HaYomi program on Motzoei Shabbos at the gala melava malka that will be held in the main ballroom of the Armon Hotel. At the Amud HaYomi Siyum on Thursday night, the actual hadran and siyum will be made by HaGaon HaRav Hillel David, shlita, Yoshev Rosh of the Vaad Roshei Yeshiva of Torah Umesorah, a member of the Moetzes Gedolei HaTorah, and Rav of Kehillas Yeshiva Shaarei Torah of Brooklyn. The venerated Rav David, one of the senior Gedolim of America, has been an enthusiastic supporter

HaRav Dovid Goldberg delivering a keynote address, Shabbos Convention, 2019

of the Amud HaYomi. It was Rav David who delivered a historic pesicha shiur on Masechta Brachos several months ago when the program was inaugurated, and it is thus eminently appropriate that he should make the siyum. There will also be a special guest Gadol from Eretz Yisrael gracing the siyum with a keynote address, HaGaon Hatzaddik HaRav Shimon Galei, shlita. Rav Shimon, who is himself a Daf HaYomi B’Halacha maggid shiur, will share his feelings of chizuk after personally witnessing the remarkable revolution in Eretz Yisrael where over 500 Amud HaYomi shiurim have opened across the length and breadth of the country. Participants at that siyum will have

Joyous dancing at a Dirshu Convention

the distinctive opportunity to hear from HaGaon HaRav David Ozeri, shlita, Rav of the Yad Yosef Torah Center of Brooklyn, and HaGaon HaRav Shimon Zev Meisels, Rav of Beis Medrash Yismach Yisroel in Kiryas Yoel and a son-in-law of the Satmar Rebbe, shlita, and the Nasi of Dirshu, HaRav Dovid Hofstedter, shlita. A Convention that Defies Description Of course, Shabbos itself at the Dirshu Convention is so deeply inspiring that it is difficult to encapsulate with words. A Dirshu Convention is unique. It is a microcosm of the achdus through Torah that symbolizes the most beautiful qualities of Am Yisrael. It is a convention where men and women representing the entire

Vayimaen, Rise Above: Set Your Eyes on Greatness By Rabbi Yechiel Spero

ayimaen, the newly-released book by Rabbi Yechiel Spero, captures a revolution – and helps to strengthen it even more. In just one year since its inception, more than 60,000 people have learned how to see a better world by joining the Vayimaen revolution. They’ve signed up for daily inspiration from more than 100+ world-renowned rabbanim and personalities who offer daily insights on beautifully crafted and incredibly inspiring video clips. Members of this Vayimaen revolution have learned about the greatness – and

the satisfaction and happiness – that comes from accessing the strength and, yes, the kedushah that dwells within all of us. Like Yosef HaTzaddik so many generations before, they’ve discovered the power of “vayimaen” – the happiness and serenity that we achieve when we live our own authentic lives and not look elsewhere. Now, Rabbi Yechiel Spero, who has engaged and inspired us with so many bestselling and beloved books, moves the revolution forward with a new book based on the stories, anecdotes and divrei Torah of the Vayimaen speakers, together with his own novel ideas and stories. In Vayimaen, we will learn not to

compare our lives with others and to live the best life we can. We’ll discover how to look at the world, and the people around us, with positivity and caring, to overcome roadblocks and seize opportunities for personal growth. We will learn from a large variety of Torah sources how every moment of rising above temptation is laden with untold blessings and salvations. We’ll learn how to dream of greatness and, yes, how to achieve it, one challenge at a time. This book reawakens the truth that authentic happiness lays not in the allure of society but in the haven of purity that exists within us.

gamut of Torah Jewry – Chassidim of all kinds, Litvish Yeshiva types, Ashkenazim, Sefardim – come together for one reason: to give and gain chizuk in the limud haTorah that both the men and women who attend know has transformed their homes, their family lives and the chinuch of their children. With the addition of the monthly Amud HaYomi tests this year, thousands of new test takers have joined the ranks of Dirshu and have begun to feel the taam of life as a “Dirshu Yid.” In addition, the wives of lomdei Dirshu walk away from Shabbos on a high. Not only are they deeply inspired by the special women’s programing but perhaps even more so, from meeting other dis-

Around the Community

A Shabbos of Highlights One of the highlights of the Dirshu Convention that the lomdim look forward to is the iyun shiur delivered by a prominent Rosh Yeshiva. In past conventions, shiurim were delivered by such luminaries as HaGaon HaRav Shmuel Yaakov Borenstein, zt”l, whose shiur riveted the tzibbur. Who can forget the shiurim of HaGaon HaRav Berel Povarsky, shlita, or HaGaon HaRav Shlomo Feivel Schustal, shlita, at past conventions? This year, the shiur will be given by HaGaon HaRav Yitzchok Sorotzkin, shlita, Rosh Yeshiva of the Mesivta of Lakewood and author of the magnum opus sefarim Gevuras Yitzchok. At this year’s convention too, HaGaon HaRav Shlomo Feivel Schustal will be delivering a shiur on Friday. Another highlight of the convention in previous years has been the unique shailos and teshuvos sessions with two of the most prominent poskim of our times, HaGaon HaRav Reuven Feinstein, shlita, Rosh Yeshiva of Staten Island, and HaGaon Harav Yeicheil Michel Steinmetz, shlita, senior Skverer Dayan of Boro Park. This year too, Rav Feinstein and Rav Steinmetz will be taking questions covering all aspects of halacha and hashkafa. This year’s convention will be graced by numerous Gedolei Yisrael that will also include, HaGaon HaRav Dovid Goldberg, shlita, HaGaon HaRav Shlomo Eisenberger, shlita, Roshei Yeshiva of the Telshe Yeshiva of Cleveland, the Kossover Rebbe, shlita, HaGaon HaRav Shmuel Choeuka, shlita, Rav of Beit Haknesset Ohel Simha of Deal, NJ, HaGaon HaRav Nissan Kaplan, shlita, Rosh Yeshiva of Yeshiva Daas Aharon, and numerous others. At the Motzoei Shabbos Melava Malka Siyum on Masechta Bava Kama, Rav Dovid Goldberg, Rosh Yeshivas Telshe, the Kossover Rebbe, Rav Shraga Feivish Hager, Rav Nissan Kaplan, and Rav Dovid Hofstedter will address the massive crowd. The hadran on Masechta Bava Kama will be given by HaRav Moshe Mordechai Lowy, shlita, Rav of the Agudas Yisrael of Toronto.

On Shabbos, between Kabbolas Shabbos and Maariv, Rav Nissan Kaplan will address the massive assemblage in the tent erected to enable all participants to daven b’achdus comfortably. Rav Yitzchok Sorotzkin will also deliver an important drasha at the Friday night seuda. A highlight of the Shabbos promises to be the Sheves Achim on Friday night following the seuda where Rav Yechiel Mechel Steinmetz, Rav Shmuel Choueka, and Rav Yisrael Moshe Olewski, the Rosh Yeshiva of the Gerer Yeshiva in Boro Park, will address the crowd. On Shabbos morning, Rav Dovid Hofstedter, Nasi of Dirshu, is slated to deliver a lomdishe shiur, both a hadran on the Daf HaYomi of Masechta Bava Kama and a haschala on Masechta Shabbos with the Amud HaYomi. Following Mincha, the climactic shalosh seudos is held, during which time all the men gather to sit together at this most hallowed time of Shabbos and hear divrei chizuk. Concurrently, there is a special ladies’ shalosh seudos program. This year, shalosh seudos will be addressed by HaRav Yitzchok Zalman Gips, shlita, Rav of Khal Birkas Avrohom of Boro Park. Rav Gips is a popular Dirshu Amud HaYomi and Daf HaYomi B’Halacha maggid shiur. Shmuessen will be delivered by Rav Shlomo Eisenberger, Rav Yechiel Mechel Steinmetz and Rav Moshe Benzion Weinberger, Rav of the Agudah of Flatbush. The response from lomdei Dirshu has been so overwhelming. Thousands of reservations have poured in from people wanting to attend the convention. Dirshu has booked and sold out both the Armon and Marriot Hotels. Those wishing to participate in the Amud HaYomi siyum on Masechta Brachos on Thursday night can still RSVP and attend. “How Can I NOT Participate?!” One prominent American Rosh Yeshiva put it succinctly, “How can I not participate at the Dirshu Convention?! This is an event with no agenda other than increasing limud haTorah – no political agenda, no fundraising or organizational agenda. It is, simply put, a celebration of dedication to learning. We are just coming to celebrate with Yidden who have invested days and nights over many years to learn, chazer and be tested. How can I not come?!”

FEBRUARY 15, 2024 | The Jewish Home

tinguished wives and mothers who truly understand what it means to be part of Dirshu with the inherent thrill of witnessing the hatzlacha of their husbands and/ or sons after a test; or upon completion of a masechta, recognizing how, through Dirshu, the entire family becomes elevated and closer to Hashem.

The Jewish Home | FEBRUARY 15, 2024

1. *

TJH

Centerfold

Well Said, Mr. President… “I’m glad I’m not Brezhnev; being the Russian leader in the Kremlin, you never know if someone’s tape-recording what you are saying.” – President Richard M. Nixon

“Whenever you are asked if you can do a job, tell ‘em, ‘Certainly, I can!’ Then get busy and find out how to do it.” – President Theodore Roosevelt

“I just received the following wire from my generous Daddy: ‘Dear Jack, Don’t buy a single vote more than is necessary. I’ll be [darned] if I’m going to pay for a landslide.’” – President John F. Kennedy “If one morning I walked on top of the water across the Potomac River, the headline that afternoon would read: ‘President Can’t Swim.’” – President Lyndon Johnson

“You teach a child to read, and he or her will be able to pass a literacy test.” – President George W. Bush “I’m a greater believer in luck, and I find the harder I work the more I have of it.” – President Thomas Jefferson

“Better to remain silent and be thought a fool than to speak out and remove all doubt.” – President Abraham Lincoln

“I was America’s first instant vice president and now, America’s first instant president. The Marine Corps Band is so confused, they don’t know whether to play ‘Hail to the Chief’ or ‘You’ve Come a Long Way, Baby.’” –President Gerald Ford

“I have left orders to be awakened at any time in case of national emergency – even if I’m in a Cabinet meeting.” – President Ronald Reagan

“No man who ever held the office of president would congratulate a friend on obtaining it.” – President John Adams

“Being president is like running a cemetery: you’ve got a lot of people under you and nobody’s listening.” – President Bill Clinton

“Blessed are the young, for they will inherit the national debt.” – President Herbert Hoover

Riddle me This Name 5 U.S. presidents whose last names only have 4 letters.

Answer: William H. Taft, James Polk, Gerald Ford, George H.W. Bush, and George W. Bush

1. Aside for wearing it on his head, what else did Pres. Lincoln often use his stovetop hat for? a. To store letters and papers in it b. To roast marshmallows c. To stand on when he gave campaign speeches d. To draw raffle tickets when children came to visit him in the White House 2. What did Lincoln’s killer, John Wilkes Booth, do for a living? a. He was an actor b. He was a senator c. He was a general in the Confederate Army d. He ran a gun range 3. After shooting Lincoln, Booth jumped from the Presidential Box onto the stage and shouted something. What was it? a. “The war shall continue!” b. “Sic semper tyrannis!” c. “Revenge of the South!” d. “The devil has departed!” 4. Which of the following is true about Lincoln? a. He was the first president with a beard b. Lincoln invented a device to free steamboats that ran aground and patented it, making him the only president to have a patent c. He was the first president to be photographed at his inauguration d. He battled depression for much of his life e. All of the above 5. John Wilkes Booth’s brother, Edwin, was also a famous actor. What interaction did he have with the Lincoln family before his brother killed the president? a. He saved the president’s son, Robert, from falling off of a moving train one year before Lincoln was assassinated

b. He was the official White House entertainment advisor c. He was married to Lincoln’s cousin d. He gave drama lessons to the Lincoln children 6. What federal agency did Lincoln establish on April 14, 1865, the day he was shot? a. Internal Revenue Service b. Secret Service c. Environmental Protection Agency d. Department of Energy 7. How many elections did Lincoln lose before becoming president? a. 1 b. 2 c. 3 d. 4 e. 5 Answers: 1) A 2) A- Booth was a well-known actor. In fact, Lincoln watched Booth perform in numerous plays, including one called “The Marble Heart” at Ford’s Theater on November 9, 1863. According to the book, Lincoln’s Sanctuary: Abraham Lincoln And The Soldiers’ Home, Lincoln enjoyed Booth’s performance so much he sent a note backstage inviting him to the White House so they could meet. Booth, a rebel sympathizer and Confederate spy, evaded the president’s invitation. 3) B-Although it was initially unclear what he said, the consensus is that he shouted, “Sic semper tyrannis!” This is a Latin phrase that means “thus always to tyrants.” He is also said to have shouted, “The South is avenged!” in English. Booth managed to make his way to an alley in back of the theater where a horse was waiting for him and made his escape.

4) E 5) A- Edwin Booth saved the life of Lincoln’s eldest son, Robert Lincoln, one year before Lincoln’s assassination. It happened when Robert and Edwin Booth happened to board a train at the same station, and Robert lost his footing once the train started moving. According to Robert Lincoln, Edwin Booth grabbed him by the collar and pulled him back to his feet. Robert Todd Lincoln recognized the famous actor and thanked him for his efforts. He also wrote and spoke about the incident on several occasions before his father’s assassination. 6) B- Although it sounds ridiculously ironic that the Lincoln created the Secret Service on the day he was assassinated, the truth is that at that time the Secret Service’s mission was solely to investigate crimes related to the Treasury, such as counterfeiting. Shortly after the assassination of William McKinley in 1901, the Secret Service assumed fulltime responsibility for protection of the president. 7) E-Lincoln lost his first race for the Illinois General Assembly in 1832. He had gone on to lose a race for the U.S. Congress, two races for the U.S. Senate, and one campaign for a vice-presidential nomination. Wisdom Key: 5-7 correct: Four score and seven years from now, they will still be talking about your immense knowledge of Lincoln. 3-4 correct: You are right in the middle— you probably would have stayed out of the Civil War. 0-2 correct: Who do you consider to have been the 16th president? Jefferson Davis? (Never mind, that probably went right over your head…go back to your video games. You know, if Lincoln’s log cabin only had PlayStation, maybe he would have made something of his life.)

FEBRUARY 15, 2024 | The Jewish Home

Honest Abe Trivia

The Jewish Home | FEBRUARY 15, 2024

Torah Thought

Parshas Terumah By Rabbi Berel Wein

he initial and most successful building campaign in Jewish history is recorded for us in this week’s Torah reading. The Torah, in recounting the event, teaches us that Moshe was to accept offerings of gold, silver, copper, precious stones, weaving materials, acacia wood, artistic talent and everything else that would be necessary for the construction of the Mish-

kan in the desert. The Torah, though, places a caveat on the donations of goods and services, wealth and talent that Moshe was to receive from the people of Israel. The Torah states that he was to accept all donations but only from those whose hearts and will motivated their generosity. We are all aware that it is much easier to write a check than to really feel good,

excited and sincere about the donation. The nature of human beings is to be less than forthcoming in their generosity, and even if they are willing to part with some of their material possessions, the spirit and true intent of that generosity is often missing. Here the Torah is teaching us an important lesson. A building or any institution whose purpose is service of G-d and the spiritual enhancement of human beings cannot be built of human material generosity alone. As the Talmud so succinctly phrases it, “G-d demands our heart.” Professional fundraisers employ all means and tactics to raise money for their goals and projects. However, after many decades of observing fundraising techniques, I

is the equivalent of paying one’s taxes then that donation is completely devoid of any spiritual content. We all have to pay our taxes as a national duty and a practical necessity. Yet people do not feel any sort of spiritual achievement in paying their taxes. We may sign the check but our hearts are not in it. This attitude, which after all is still acceptable when paying our material taxes is concerned (since no government is really interested in the spiritual effects of its taxes on the status of your soul), is not the attitude that will suffice when it comes to building a Mishkan. In this latter case, we are asked not only to give of our material wealth and personal talents but truly to give of ourselves as well.

We are asked not only to give of our material wealth and personal talents but truly to give of ourselves as well.

know that it is very difficult to penetrate the heart of the donor. Without such a penetration, the fundraising exercise becomes devoid of spiritual meaning and soulful uplift. I think that the giving feeling that the Torah emphasizes here is achievable only when one feels that the cause or object of one’s generosity is really worth more than the wealth that one is parting with. The example I use in teaching is that if one feels that giving charity

The demand of the Torah is not only to give from our heart but to give our heart itself to the exalted cause and spiritual greatness of the Mishkan. It is not a donation that the Torah asks of us, rather it is a commitment of self that is demanded. The Mishkan has long ago disappeared from our physical view, but its lessons remain relevant and important to us today as when they were taught millennia ago. Shabbat shalom.

FEBRUARY 15, 2024 | The Jewish Home

The Jewish Home | FEBRUARY 15, 2024

From the Fire Parshas Terumah

Moonwalkers By Rav Moshe Weinberger Adapted for publication by Binyomin Wolf

he Hebrew word for leap year, shanah me’uberes, literally means “pregnant year.” What is the connection between a leap year and pregnancy? Let us explore a few words in a tefillah we say every Shabbos morning, Nishmas, to understand what Hashem wants us to learn about these times. In it, we daven, “If...our eyes shone like the sun and like the moon...we would still not be able to thank you sufficiently.” We understand why we ask G-d to help us shine like the sun. It has many good qualities. It gives life and light to the entire world. And it is consistent, even-keeled, and dependable. It rises and sets at a predictable time. It is rock solid. It has much working in its favor. But why do we ask to shine like the moon, which offers less light and even the light that it does provide is inconsistent, always waxing and waning. What do we add by asking to shine like the light of the moon? The Maggid of Mezrich, zy”a, teaches us the key to understanding one ad-

vantage the moon holds over the sun. The moon has greater pleasure from the good qualities it possesses precisely because it is not always on the highest level like the sun. He compares this to a poor man who works very hard one day and earns $100. He derives more pleasure and pride from that $100 than a king who has a storehouse containing billions of dollars. Why? Because the king has so much, he gets almost no enjoyment from his vast wealth. These two ways, the way of the sun and the way of the moon, correspond to two different types of Jews. We have the tzaddikim who are few. Hashem spreads them out so that there are a few in each generation. They are like the sun, always consistent, shining brightly. The majority of us, however, are moon Jews. We oscillate between coming on time to shul and arriving two or twenty minutes late. We have good days, and we have bad days. The coarse physicality of the world has made it difficult for most people to maintain their spiritual level. Life is filled with constant battles,

ascents and descents. We go from exalted times to times when we feel our light has waned, till we possess virtually no light, like the new moon. But the Hebrew word for new moon is molad – birth. And the word for leap year, shanah me’uberes, literally meaning “pregnant year.” Both are indicative of the fact that the moon stands for the ability to be born again, to renew oneself. That is the entire purpose of the leap year – to continually realign the way of the moon and the way of the sun. On their own, they continually become more and more out of sync, as the lunar year is eleven days shorter than the solar year. But the extra month of Adar added seven times every nineteen years synchronizes them. Why is this important? We must have the sun. We must always strive for consistent, reliable greatness. But we must also know how to renew ourselves and start again when our light fades. Rav Yaakov Yitzchak of Peshischa, zy”a, was known as the Yid HaKadosh, the Holy Jew of Peshischa.

There are different views among the tzaddikim how he earned this interesting title. But the consensus is that it is because every morning, when he said the blessing, “Blessed are You Hashem...who has not made me a gentile,” he would rejoice and dance with gratitude that he was a Jew, as if he were just born that day. How does all of this relate to Parshas Terumah? The pasuk (Shemos 26:30) says, “And you shall establish the Mishkan according to its law which I showed you on the mountain.” The Yerushalmi (Shabbos 12:3) says that “its law” means that if a beam of the Mishkan was on the north side when it was first built, then the next time the Mishkan was built, that beam had to again be on the north side. We see that in the place of the highest service of Hashem, in the Mishkan, consistency was of the utmost importance. This is the same reason why we have a custom to place an atarah, crown, on the tallis. It ensures that the wearer always wears the tallis the same way so

that G-d, and that our nation is old and boring. They try to cool off any excitement we might feel in Yiddishkeit, as the pasuk says regarding Amalek (Devarim 25:18), “who happened upon you [karcha, which can also mean “cooled

These are not football plays. They are telling me the number of days they have gone without watching anything appalling on the Internet. They feel so proud, knowing that this is the longest they have gone without doing that since

We must also know how to renew ourselves and start again when our light fades.

you off”] on the way.” That is why, when we attain a little Divine illumination, or manage to daven, learn, or do a mitzvah with feeling, we have even more pleasure than those sun Jews whose lives are filled with constant light. Those Jews living with the waxing and waning of the moon must savor every little accomplishment, every little bit of light they attain. I have a number of precious friends who, whenever they have a private moment with me, whisper, “Twenty-seven!” or “Thirty-two!”

they were fourteen years old. They ask me, “Rebbe, please daven for me that I should continue. I don’t want to go back to the way I was, living in darkness and slavery.” The leap year is meant to realign the sun, the attribute of constant light, and the moon, the ability to appreciate every drop of additional light and growth. That is why a leap year is called a “pregnant year.” That linking together of the sun and the moon gives us the light of the sun with the rebirth and resilience

of the moon. The way of the Jewish people is this combination. “The tzaddik blossoms like a date palm planted in the house of Hashem” (Tehillim 92:13). On one hand, we must be planted firmly in Hashem’s house, always striving for consistent greatness. But we must also blossom, with the sudden beauty of the springtime, growing and feeling excitement and pleasure from our service of Hashem each day. May Hashem bless us to succeed in our efforts to shine brightly and consistently like the sun while still growing and experiencing pleasure from that growth like the moon. And when we fail or fall, may we give birth to ourselves again each time and start again. In this merit, may we merit to witness the time when our tefillah at kiddush levanah will be fulfilled, that “the light of the moon will be like the light of the sun… as it was before it was diminished.”

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.

FEBRUARY 15, 2024 | The Jewish Home

that he will not inadvertently place the tzitzis which were on the front of the tallis last time he wore it in the back the next time. One must remain consistent in his service of G-d. But even in the Mishkan, Hashem wanted an element of variety. The Mishnah in Sukkah (5:6) says, “One who sacrificed bulls today may not sacrifice [them] tomorrow.” This is the source for the kohanim’s custom to draw lots to see who would offer that day’s korbanos. Chazal recognized the importance of novelty and variation in the pleasure that one derives from serving Hashem. They instituted these lots so that each person would know that just because he is close one day, he may not be close the next day. This engenders a feeling of gratitude and pleasure when one merits a higher level of serving G-d that would be lacking if it were ever-present. For those of us living on the moon, each day of light is a hard-fought struggle. We constantly fight the battle against Amalek, who says (Esther 3:8), “There is, yeshno, one nation,” using the word for “there is,” which can also mean “old.” The evil inclination constantly works to make us feel that Yiddishkeit,

The Jewish Home | FEBRUARY 15, 2024

Think. Feel.Grow.

What Made Moshe’s Prophecy Unique? By Rabbi Shmuel Reichman

father set out one day to teach his young daughter a powerful lesson. When she woke up in the morning, he took her in front of a mirror and asked her, “What do you see?” She smiled and answered, “I see myself!” He then took her to the window and asked her, “What do you see now?” “I see houses and trees and grass and a whole world outside,” she said, this time with a sense of wonder and joy in her voice. That night, before tucking his daughter into bed, the father again brought her to the mirror. “What do you see?” “I still see myself,” she answered, a bit confused as to why they were doing this again. He then took her back to the window. “What do you see now?” he asked. “I see…me?” she answered, suddenly very confused. “Did the window turn into a mirror?” “Be patient, stay focused, and keep on staring at the window. What do you see?” After a long, silent moment, her eyes lit up. “I finally see it! I see houses and trees and the world outside!” Her father smiled and explained to his daughter, “Sometimes, we get so caught up in our own lives that we think everything in life revolves around us; instead of seeing the true nature of things, we see everything as a mirror of ourselves. As a result, we project our views onto everything we see and everything we hear. Instead, we each need to learn how to peer past the surface, past ourselves, and see the endless beauty, wisdom, and depth

that lies beneath that surface. When we do so, we turn the mirror into a window, revealing a world of depth behind it.”

Limitless Human beings are creative, intelligent, and powerful, but at the same time, we are incredibly limited: • Our experience of this spectacular physical universe is limited to our five senses. • We can only be in one place at any given point in time. • We have limited strength and energy. • There is a vast, almost infinite world of wisdom that we have no grasp of whatsoever. But what if this wasn’t the case? Imagine a life beyond the one you currently

experience — one with new senses and sensations, new colors added to your field of vision, and new sounds to your range of hearing. What if you had abilities that far surpassed anything you can imagine? Consider a reality in which you had access to all wisdom and could experience and grasp it all instantaneously. It is so difficult to imagine this because it is nearly impossible to think about something that you have never experienced before – just try thinking of a color that doesn’t exist.

Moshe’s Prophecy The Rambam famously formulates thirteen principles of faith that he believes to be the absolute foundational pillars of Jewish belief, emphasizing that every Jew must believe in these principles. The sixth principle states that all

the words of the Neviim (prophets) are true. The seventh principle specifies that the prophecy of Moshe Rabbeinu is true and that he was greatest Navi of all time, greater than both those that came before him and those that came after him (Rambam, commentary on Sanhedrin, perek Chelek.). The sixth principle is obviously crucial; the seventh seems redundant. If all of the Neviim’s words were true, of course Moshe’s were true as well. What is so fundamentally important about the superiority of Moshe’s prophecy that the Rambam deemed it necessary to state it as a separate principle of faith? More broadly, what does it mean that Moshe was the greatest prophet to ever live? Hashem Himself attests to the greatness of Moshe and his unique level of prophecy (Bamidbar 12:6–8). What was so unique about Moshe’s prophecy? We know that Moshe received the Torah from Hashem and brought it down to the Jewish People – a role he seemed uniquely suited for. The Torah itself is even called “Toras Moshe” (Malachi 3:22), indicating an intrinsic tie between Moshe and the Torah. But what was the greatness of Moshe’s prophecy that earned him this unique status? Why was Moshe’s nevuah fundamentally different from all other Neviim who came before and after him? In order to understand Moshe’s prophecy, we must first develop an understanding of nevuah in general.

The Nature of Prophecy We live in a world devoid of prophecy. Therefore, attempting to understand it is like trying to understand a human sense by hearing someone describe it to you.

FEBRUARY 15, 2024 | The Jewish Home

The Jewish Home | FEBRUARY 15, 2024

However powerfully you can describe sight, it won’t mean much to a person who has been blind from birth. Likewise, a deaf person could read about hearing, but he has no past experience or mental framework in which to place it. Similarly, in a world devoid of prophecy, it becomes exceedingly difficult to understand or even relate to the experience. However, we will try to paint as clear a picture as possible of what it is. Throughout the Middle Ages, there were various attacks against Judaism by secular and non-Jewish philosophers. One area commonly targeted was prophecy, resulting in many Jewish thinkers attempting to clearly describe their understanding of nevuah. While there is variance within their opinions, the basic consensus is as follows: A prophet must be a great tzaddik, spending his or her entire life building to the stage where he is worthy of receiving prophecy. This includes both a mastery of Torah knowledge and commitment to its observance, as well as complete command over one’s middos and intellect. Once he achieves this exalted status, he is capable of receiving prophecy, and Hashem will choose whether or not to grant him prophecy. The prophetic experience itself was an other-worldly, transcendent experience. Hashem opened and expanded the Navi’s consciousness, allowing him to connect to a higher dimension of existence that lies far beyond the limitations of time and space and far beyond the capacity of the regular human mind. In doing so, the Navi became capable of experiencing lofty ideas and intellectual truths that he would otherwise have no access to. (The prophetic experience is beyond space and time. This explains how a Navi can become aware of future events that have not yet occurred. Within this transcendent realm of experience, time itself breaks down. Past, present, and future melt into one continuum.) These ideas and truths would then filter down through the Navi’s intellect and get translated by his imaginative faculties, resulting in his unique, subjective experience of these lofty objective truths. In a very deep sense, nevuah was a transcendent, angelic experience of the spiritual world that a Navi experienced while still in this world. Building off this general understanding of prophecy, we must now ask: What made Moshe’s prophecy unique?

Clarity of Vision The first unique characteristic of Moshe’s prophecy was his level of clarity. (See Rambam’s introduction to perek

Chelek to see the Rambam’s description of the Moshe’s unique characteristics that are mentioned in this article. See also Mishneh Torah, Yesodei HaTorah 7:6.) The Gemara explains that while all other prophets saw through a clouded lens, Moshe saw through a clear lens. (Yevamos 49b.) (Another way of formulating this distinction is as follows: While all other Neviim received their prophecy through an angel (intermediary), Moshe received prophecy directly from Hashem. See Shemos 33:11 and Bamidbar 12:8.) We all perceive reality through our own unique lens. A tremendously developed and wise person will see the world through a much more sophisticated lens than an immature child. One of them sees

this is why the word “aspaklaria” also means mirror. The prophet’s experience was a reflection of himself, as the prophecy was filtered through his own consciousness. If there is even the slightest degree of ego involved, or the smallest distance between the Navi and Hashem, the prophecy will be blurred accordingly. This is why, as many commentators note, each Navi had their own unique style of writing. Each prophecy was filtered through the Navi’s unique mind and personality and was then shared and written accordingly. The ideas were transmitted completely from Hashem, but they were received according to how they flowed through the Navi’s personal consciousness. (For example, there are

He was purely the medium and vessel through which Hashem gave the Torah.

many layers of depth behind every aspect of reality, while the other sees nothing more than the surface. One of them looks at the Torah and sees layers of wisdom, while the other looks at the same words and sees meaningless scribbles. As the child matures, he will have the ability to expand his understanding and develop a more sophisticated approach to life. The same is true regarding prophecy. There were many different levels. As humans, our consciousness is limited in that we only see the physical, not the spiritual. Since prophecy is a window into the spiritual world, the metaphor Chazal use to describe the quality of the Navi’s vision is an “aspaklaria,” loosely translated as a window, lens, or mirror. The greater the prophet, the clearer his vision and the better his understanding; the lesser the prophet, the more opaque and cloudier his vision and the hazier his understanding. While all other Neviim’s vision had some measure of cloudiness, Moshe saw Hashem and the spiritual world with absolute clarity, or with as much clarity as possible for a human being. In other words, while other Neviim saw a reflection of the spiritual world and its truths, Moshe saw the spiritual world itself, with no filters. As the Ramchal puts it in Derech Hashem, Moshe saw through a “glass window”; he saw the spiritual world as it is with absolute clarity. Rav Dessler beautifully explains that

different episodes in Nach that describe the Kisei Ha’kavod, the Divine Throne, and each description is different. If you look at the descriptions in Yechezkel, Yeshayah, and Daniel, some descriptions are more detailed, and some are longer than others. One way to understand this is that they all saw the same prophecy, but each of them received and transmitted it according to their own unique style and level.) Moshe, however, completely negated his ego. He was a transparent reflection of Hashem, and his nevuah was 100% pure. He experienced his prophecy without any translation, filtration, or distortion; he received it exactly as it was given by Hashem. In other words, all other Neviim saw an image of truth, but the words they transmitted were only a reflection of that truth, shaped by their own minds and personalities. Moshe, however, saw the objective truth and was able to transmit that objective truth in its absolute purity and entirety. The words he wrote were the actual objective truth, not a filtered or watered-down reflection. Moshe added nothing of himself to Hashem’s words; he was purely the medium and vessel through which Hashem gave the Torah. This is what Chazal mean when they say, “Shechinah medaberes mi’toch grono shel Moshe — [Hashem] spoke from the throat of Moshe” (Ramban, Devarim 5:12). Moshe wasn’t speaking; Hashem

was. Moshe simply gave over what Hashem said, as opposed to other Neviim, who received prophecy from Hashem and then expressed it in their own unique way. As a result, Chumash and the rest of Nach are on two fundamentally different levels. Chumash is absolutely pure and reflects spiritual reality in its most potent and true form. All of spiritual truth is contained within the Torah. The rest of Nach is a manifestation of Torah on a lower level, in a more limited form, reflecting the lower level of the Neviim who received and transmitted it. (It is important to note that all of Nach is still on a transcendent level. It is only in comparison to the Chumash that Nach is considered secondary.) This is why the Gemara teaches the principle that no halacha can be derived from Nach that wasn’t already introduced in the Torah. (See, for example, Bava Kama 2b.) Torah is the root, the absolute truth, while Nach is its expression. There is nothing in the expression that cannot be found within the root, just like there is nothing in a tree that can’t be traced back to its original seed. As such, all mitzvos must be sourced in the Torah. In our next article, we will delve deeper into this fascinating topic and try to understand Moshe’s unique level of prophecy on an even deeper level.

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

FEBRUARY 15, 2024 | The Jewish Home

The Jewish Home | FEBRUARY 15, 2024

Delving into the Daf

A Superbowl Stumper By Rabbi Avrohom Sebrow

oruch: Hi, Shimon. I believe this is yours. Shimon: My Superbowl ticket! Where was it? I was looking all over for it, and I missed the game! Boruch: I felt that it wasn’t appropriate for someone of your stature to attend the game, so I took it. Shimon: Wow! I really appreciate that you looked out for my ruchniyus, but please pay me $14,500 for the worthless ticket you stole from me and are now returning. Boruch: Wait a minute! The face value of the ticket is $4,500. Where does $14,500 come from? Shimon: That was the resale value of the ticket at the time you stole it from me. The Mishnah in Bava Kama says that the value of restitution is determined at the time of the theft. It is irrelevant what I paid for it or even if it was a gift. Shimon: But why do I have to pay anything? I returned the ticket! Boruch: Let’s say you stole a vase and cracked it. Can you return the worthless pieces and claim that’s restitution?! Certainly not. Here, too, this ticket is worthless. It’s like a broken vase. Shimon: Not so fast. The Mishnah discusses a case where someone stole chometz before Pesach and returned it after Pesach. It is forbidden to derive benefit from the chometz because it was in a Jew’s possession over Pesach. Yet, the Mishnah says that the thief can return the worthless chometz, and it’s considered valid restitution! Since he is returning the same physical item he stole, we don’t look at its value. I am returning the exact ticket I stole. Its value is immaterial! Boruch: You have a point. But the Gemara discusses a situation where someone stole coins, and subsequently, the government declared that those coins are no longer legal tender. According to your logic, the thief should be able to return those very same coins that are now worthless. Yet, Rav Yehuda says he may

not! Rashi explains it’s because someone can merely glance at the coins and know they are worthless. This is very different from chometz that was owned by a Jew over Pesach. There, the chometz looks exactly the same as currently edible food. No one can tell just by looking at it that it was owned over Pesach. The coins, on the other hand, are noticeably worthless, therefore, the thief must pay the value that the coins had when he stole them. He may not return the worthless coins. So, too, everyone can tell by looking at my Superbowl ticket that it is now worthless. You must pay me the value it had when you stole it. Shimon: You make an excellent point. As I recall, though, Rav Huna disagrees in precisely your case and says the thief may return the worthless coins. The fact that an observer can glance at them and see they are worthless is of no consequence. According to Rav Huna, I may return the Superbowl ticket even if it is noticeably worthless since it is physically the exact item I stole. Boruch: But the Shulchan Aruch paskens like Rav Yehuda! Shimon: Nice try! The Rema paskens like Rav Huna! (And you are Ashkenazi!)

Boruch: Still, you deprived me of the use of my Superbowl ticket. Putting the theft aside, you are liable for damages for not allowing me to use my ticket! The Baal Hamaor is of the opinion that a thief can be held liable for damages as well as thievery. Shimon: Very sharp! Yet, the Shita Mekubetzes, citing Rabbeinu Meir HaLevi, disagrees. Once the thief provides restitution, he can longer be held responsible for damages. I am returning the worthless ticket to you and therefore am absolved from damages. Boruch: At least ask me for forgiveness. The Rambam holds that someone who damages someone else’s property does not have to ask for forgiveness after paying restitution. Yet, he rules that someone who steals someone else’s property must ask for forgiveness even after paying restitution! Shimon: I’m not sure that Rambam applies to me. One of the reasons that a thief must ask for forgiveness is because he stood to gain. I never intended to use the ticket or sell it. I was merely hiding it from you! Boruch: That’s exactly what I wanted you to say! You admit that you are not

a thief! You are merely a damager. You never intended to acquire the tickets for yourself. Therefore, I can hold you liable for the damages you caused by not allowing me to use my ticket. Shimon: Hmm. But still, isn’t that merely indirect damage? Rashi says that putting an item in a river where one must hire a diver to retrieve it is merely indirect damage. Beis Din will not force someone to pay for indirect damages. Similarly, I merely put the ticket in a location where you couldn’t use it. That is indirect damage. Boruch: But the Raavad concludes that is only Rava’s opinion. As a matter of practical halacha, we can make the damager pay for indirect damage. Shimon: Now I know you are just kidding with me. Everyone knows that Beis Din will not make a person pay for gerama, indirect damage. Boruch: But this is garmi, a more severe form of indirect damage. Shimon: Isn’t gerama and garmi the same thing? Boruch: Rashi says it is. But most Rishonim disagree. Beis Din will force a person to pay for garmi, more severe indirect damage, in certain situations. Shimon: Does anyone say not allowing someone to use a Superbowl ticket is an example of garmi? Boruch: See the Pischei Teshuva 363:1 who discusses a similar case. He suggests that not allowing someone to use his esrog over Sukkos may fall under this category. Shimon: Hmm. It says there, “Tzarich iyun,” that it needs more study. If you get a clear ruling that I have to pay, I will.

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.

FEBRUARY 15, 2024 | The Jewish Home

The Jewish Home | FEBRUARY 15, 2024

Headlines

Halacha

A Blessed Rescue By Rabbi Yair Hoffman

he entire Jewish nation is elated that, baruch Hashem, two of the hostages have been freed: Louis Har and Fernando Marman, who were rescued from Rafah, Gaza. Marman, 61, and Har, 70, were taken hostage from Kibbutz Nir Yitzhak by Hamas terrorists on October 7. They were taken along with three women in their family, Mia Leimberg, 17, Gabriela Leimberg, and Clara Marman, who were released in a hostage deal on November 28. Marman, from Kfar Saba, is a handyman who often helped residents of the kibbutz with anything they needed fixed. Har has four children and 10 grandchildren. When escaping the clutches of such a situation, rachmana litzlan, there are three brachos that may be in order. The first one is “Boruch Atah Hashem Elokainu Melech haOlam matir assurim – who releases the imprisoned.” The second is bentching gomel – which is recited whenever there is danger to life. And the third bracha is the Shehecheyanu when seeing family members after having been kidnapped for so long. We must also express hakaras hatov for the brave members of Klal Yisroel who risked life and limb freeing them. Of course, we daven every day for the release and well-being of the other 134 hostages and for the continued safety of those seeking their freedom and of all of Klal Yisroel. Let us also take this opportunity to reflect upon the reasons why we recite brachos: There are seven essential reasons why we recite brachos: 1) To thank Hashem for the particular item, opportunity, or situation that we have. In this case, these two hostages have been freed from horrifying circumstances. Benefitting from something without thanking Hashem for it is compared to stealing, according to the Gemara in Brachos 35a. This, of course, is only in a situation where Chazal deemed that a

blessing is warranted and enacted these blessings. 2) To change ourselves to become someone who has hakaras hatov – to recognize what has been given us. See Brachos (7a) regarding Leah’s naming of Yehudah in Bereishis (29:35). It is interesting to note that her naming Yehudah would constantly remind her of her recognition of thanking Hashem. Rabbi Shimon Bar Yochai explains that Leah was the first to reach that high level of hakaras hatov. 3) To bring Hashem into our lives on a regular basis. Without brachos, we tend to become complacent and forget about our Creator. Brachos, when said properly, remind us of Hashem and help us bring Hashem into our lives regularly. 4) To connect to Hashem and allow for dveikus to Him. 5) Our Sages enacted that we make these blessings, and it is a Torah mitzvah to follow what the Sages have taught and enacted. 6) The Kuzari writes that when we focus on a bracha, we enjoy our food even more. Here, the hostages can better enjoy the freedom that they now have again. 7) The Gemara in Brachos further states that not reciting a bracha is also considered as if we have stolen from Knesses Yisroel, the Jewish nation. How so? Because when we sin, our nation’s fruits and handiwork suffer (see Rashi’s words in Brachos 35a). Brachos, therefore, help us improve the lot of Klal Yisroel. It follows that when we do the right thing, things also improve for Klal Yisroel. As far as bentching gomel is concerned, the Gemara in Brachos (54b) informs us that there are four people who are required to bentch gomel: 1) one who travels by sea; 2) one who journeys in the desert; 3) one who recovers from illness; and 4) one who exits from prison. These four categories are based upon Tehillim 107. The question arises as to what the un-

derlying reason is for category #4, leaving prison. The Ri Migash (responsa #90) rules that someone who is released from debtors’ prison with no actual threat to life should recite the blessing of “Matir Assurim.” Clearly, his view is that the blessing is made because of his newly obtained freedom. The Magen Avrohom (OC 219:1), on the other hand, writes that the blessing is only recited after exiting prison when one faced a possible death sentence. The Birkei Yosef, concurring with the Ri Migash, states that release from any prison sentence requires bentching gomel. The Mishnah Berurah writes that if someone was in jail for one or two days, the blessing is not recited according to all opinions – unless there was real danger to life. The Aruch HaShulchan (209:25) rules like the Ri Migash but says that if there are further conditions to his release, then he is not truly free and does not bentch gomel. The Mishnah Berurah adds that if there is any threat to life while in prison, he would bentch gomel. Rav Bakshi Doron in his Binyan Av (Vol. I #6) rules that if a prisoner is allowed to leave prison (for example, to attend a family wedding), he does not recite the bracha at all, because he has to go back to prison afterward. This is also the implied view of the Aruch HaShulchan (219:6). The Baal HaTanya in his Seder Birkos Ha’Nehenin (13:2) has a fascinating take on the issue. He adds that if he is imprisoned on a monetary matter where he was held in chains, he recites the blessing. He is referencing the aforementioned Tehil-

lim (107:10) “being bound in affliction and iron.” Rav Efrati, quoting Rav Elyashiv (Yisa Yoseph OC Vol. II #51), states that in today’s prisons one does not recite gomel if there is no danger to life, but one should perhaps recite Matir Assurim. He recommends that one have in mind during birchas hashachar for this when one recites it in the morning blessings. In this situation, of course, everyone would agree that it is recited because of the danger to life. In the Gemara itself, the Baalei Tosfos point out that the order of the four people who need to recite gomel that are listed is different from the order that is found in the Tehillim. The Baalei Tosfos answer that the Tehillim lists the more dangerous first and then goes on to the less danger. The Gemara is listing whatever is most common. The Talmid Rabbeinu Yonah, however, has it as the opposite. Could it be that the Magen Avrohom and the Ri Migash are arguing on this point – how we understand why the Gemara switches the order? As far as the third bracha of Shehecheyanu, the Gemara in Brachos 58b states: “Rabbi Yehoshua ben Levi said: One who sees his friend after thirty days recites the ‘Shehecheyanu’ bracha.” Tosfos, the Rosh, and Rabbeinu Yonah all rule that one only recite this bracha when seeing a very close friend who you are very glad to see. These halachos are found in Shulchan Aruch OC Siman 225.

This article should be viewed as a halachic discussion and not practical advice. The author can be reached at yairhoffman2@gmail.com.

FEBRUARY 15, 2024 | The Jewish Home

The Jewish Home | FEBRUARY 15, 2024

Israel Today

Haboydem By Rafi Sackville

Guy, Iris, and Elie

This is the first article in a new series of articles on people and organizations in Israel who are making a difference.

alpiot is a sprawling, thriving cacophony of the world in a rush – from stores to offices, from car mechanics and a constant flurry of pedestrian traffic to the familiar green Egged buses that snake along Rehov Pierre Koenig. Tucked away on a side street behind Hadar Mall is a unique establishment. Its name is Haboydem, which is Yiddish for the attic-like space for storing mainly unused items. Its warehouse door is painted bright red. Inside, stand racks of clothing so many in number they appear to be vying for position. On the wall are paintings, household mementos, handbags and bric-à-brac. At first glance, it seems like any other business. A closer look reveals more of a social experiment than that of a retail business. At the side of the store is a cozy nook, a sitting area with two large couches. This is where I meet Shoshana (not her actual

name). She sits opposite me looking a little trepidatious. Of slight build and sharply defined features, Shoshana isn’t quite sure why I have come to speak with her. She remembers me from my previous visit when I sat and spoke with the founders of Haboydem. “Who would find me interesting?“ she asks. The story she told me began in 1996 on a cold February morning when a terrorist blew up the number 18 bus on Jaffa Street in Yerushalayim. Twenty-six people were killed that day. Her future husband was one of the 48 injured. He was in a coma for 10 days, suffered 3rd degree burns, lost the hearing in one ear, and many of his muscles were burnt through. His recovery was long and hard. In 2002, he married Shoshana, his childhood neighbor. For years, he was successfully employed working at a large company. However, in 2019, his life took a turn for the worst, when he had a mental and physical breakdown. Shoshana was left to raise her seven children alone. She managed for three and half years until, during the summer of 2021, she, too, suffered a complete breakdown.

Diagnosed with severe anxiety and depression, she told me, “I’d wake up in the morning, take my children to school, only to return home to bed. That was my life. I’d stopped functioning.“ Her disability was formally recognized by the Ministry of Health. They assigned her help. The appointed social worker tried finding her places of employment in an attempt to get her back on her feet. Shoshana, however, was unable to perform even basic tasks. She was so sapped of confidence that she had lost her ability to function at the most minimal level. Even the most minor of jobs running her household overwhelmed her. As a result, Shoshana’s stint in place after place was short-lived. The suggestion was made to her that she try her hand working at Haboydem. Eight months later, her life has completely turned around. In order to understand the impact Haboydem has had on Shoshana’s life, it behooves us to understand the what, the who, and the why of this remarkable place. Firstly, one needs to consider the name itself. A boydem is a place for things you

don’t want to see. Oftentimes, our society treats those suffering with mental illness the same way people store unwanted items – things hidden and not wanted to be seen. Secondly, Haboydem has taken the concept of a secondhand clothing store and turned it into something not only fashionable but upmarket-chic. It challenges the notion of acceptable societal norms. Haboydem’s co-founder Guy Avihud, who, along with his wife Iris, run Haboydem, is infused with an overdose of unbridled enthusiasm. At one point, I felt that were he to ask me to join him on an adventure, I’d drop everything and follow him. His passion for what he does, and has done over the years, is definitive of a man fully committed to helping others. “Almost everything except the couches are for sale,“ he said. We were soon joined by Elie Lederman, the co-founder of Haboydem. Born in Israel, Guy’s family moved to L.A. when he was 12. He fasttracked through school and college, graduating with a B.A. in political science after just having turned 20. Guy, whose resume also includes becoming a rabbi, teaches Daf Yomi twice a day.

phrenia, and other ailments.“ Says Guy, “They come here to undergo an organized rehabilitation plan that lasts one year.“ Responding to the question of why only a year fits the sustainability test, Guy replies, “We don’t want these people to become dependent on Haboydem.” Haboydem’s goal is to not only give their workers fishing rods but to teach them how to fish as well. The kollel for men with mental illness, admits Guy, “was only handing out the rods.“ And this is what Haboydem does. It teaches people with mental illness how to become functioning members of society. The workers are there for a one-year

forces of their own. Take four skills necessary to work at Haboydem: sorting, working the cash register, maintaining order, and cleaning. Sorting requires one to pick up each item of clothing, classify it, then put it in the appropriate bin. Some clothes will find their way into the store, but many others will be sent for recycling. This can be overwhelming for a person with negative self-confidence, fearful of making an incorrect decision. Or running the registers – when Shoshana was first asked to do so, her response was classic: “Me? Who am I to be responsible for such a job?” The responsibility is initially difficult

Oftentimes, our society treats those suffering with mental illness the same way people store unwanted items – things hidden and not wanted to be seen.

training program, after which Haboydem helps them find another job. Because workers are covered by National Insurance for disability, they receive minimum wage while training. The programs are personalized to cater to each person’s needs. On the premises during all shifts is a team of occupational therapists and welfare workers. The program has to be personalized because one person’s difficulties are different from another’s. When one considers the individualization of the programs and the enormous effort put into challenging the very stigma of mental illness – the mentoring of almost 250 graduates of Haboydem and the incredibly high 70% success rate of integrating them back into society – one can become simply overwhelmed with the complexity of such a task. For example, there are workers who have problems getting up in the morning. While it is true that many people suffer the same, for someone like Shoshana, the problem is chronic. It is as if they are weighed down in bed by an unseen but debilitating force. Some can’t regulate their days. Some can’t work with others, while some have difficulty taking orders. Again, many people suffer from similar problems, but in the case of people suffering mental illness, these issues have life

for many workers. Considering some of them find it hard enough to get out of bed in the morning, it is understandable what a challenge keeping a store neat and tidy might pose. We were joined by Mikol, who is in charge of public relations. She explained how Haboydem began job placement themselves and how they keep track of the workers ’progress. She says they must be doing something right if the Ministry of Health is always sending people in to observe Haboydem at work. Mikol briefly described Haboydem’s development of partnerships and initiatives and community relations. I was most interested to note that they now lecture in schools, bringing the story of Haboydem out into the community. Over a series of three visits, groups of school students will come to Haboydem to learn firsthand about their integration program but also about smart consumerism such as waste, a topic of vital importance for young students living in a throwaway society that produces such surplus. Then there is the opening of a new course in Bezalel Art School in the city, whose aim is to educate students in developing a prototype to use textiles as raw materials. The truth about recycling is that it is greatly underdeveloped. Putting things into recycling bins doesn’t translate into solving a problem. One solution has been

to turn textiles into construction tiles. I make mention of the quality of goods on sale. Most are brand names. We have all experienced walking into secondhand stores; that grungy, dusty feeling. In contrast, by concentrating on brand name clothing, customers don’t feel as if they’re being cheap. Furthermore, “it wouldn’t be dignified for the workers in Haboydem to deal in shmattes,“ adds Guy. “When people donate clothes to Haboydem, they’re donating top quality clothes. They feel as if they’re part of the action. It’s about quality and harnessing the community.“ Before leaving, I ask Guy and Elie what effect the war has had on their enterprise. According to Guy, the occupational therapist is already planning for next year. There is a lot of post-trauma to deal with. Corona had a similar effect on the workers. And Shoshana? After eight months, she is about to embark on the transition of moving out of Haboydem. I asked her what changes she can see in herself since beginning work. “I’m prepared to put my foot down at home. That’s something I stopped doing a long time ago,” she shares. “I’m more confident, more determined to succeed. I feel good about myself when people put their trust in me.“ “And now that you know you have to leave in a few months’ time?“ You can see the worry in her face. “I’ve started having conversations about it. I would be lying if I said I wasn’t worried.“ She looked prematurely wistful, as if she was already dreading leaving. Yet that’s only half the story, for if there is one thing you can detect in Shoshana, it’s an inner resolve and drive to succeed. She knows just what is at stake. She has children to care for. Her success is such that she has already been offered a job looking after children. She initially couldn’t understand why, until it dawned on her that she has been armed with the tools to succeed. The transition will be hard, but Shoshana has the character, the tools, and the will to succeed. Dear readers, if you are interested in donating to Haboydem, you can do so at Yad Leah Warehouse and Volunteer Center in Passaic, New Jersey. They can be contacted at (973) 955-0861.

Rafi Sackville, formerly of Cedarhurst, NY, teaches in Amirim High School in Kfar Vradim in the Western Galil.

FEBRUARY 15, 2024 | The Jewish Home

Guy has accomplished a lot in his 48 years. He has worked in the mental health field since the early 2000’s. This journey of helping those with mental illness began when he received an email looking for someone willing to learn with a young man with special needs. He returned home to Israel and enlisted in the army. Once his service was over, he married and then returned to the U.S. for three years, during which time he worked with his father. His father had taken out several patents in making wheelchairs more comfortable. The business was successful. It allowed Guy to sit in kollel for six years after he returned from L.A. A friend told him that the Ministry of Health were looking to open a kollel for people with mental illness. Guy jumped at the opportunity. He began managing three kollels in Jerusalem, Bnei Brak and Rehovot. The problem was that the young men learning there were caught in a bind between having to choose between rehabilitation and their cultural background. The concept might have looked good on paper, but it wasn’t sustainable. He found himself in a constant challenge to raise money. On one of his ventures to raise money, he found himself in Ra’anana. He was speaking upstairs in the main shul when in walked his future partner, Elie Lederman. Elie listened to his pitch. “He was raising money for religious men with mental illness. I remember thinking, this guy’s a sucker.“ “He was right,” interjected Guy. “The program created dependency, and dependency is problematic because it made those men too comfortable by providing them with all their needs.“ Guy and Elie got to talking. “I could see he was full of good intentions,” Elie explains, “but he needed to put his strength into a program that was sustainable.” Elie is levelheaded when explaining his approach to philanthropy: “I’m not going to invent the wheel. What I’m going to do is find people I like who are hands on and have initiative.“ After dipping their feet in a few projects together, Guy and Elie created Haboydem. The idea was to open an up-scale secondhand store and employ and help rehabilitate people with mental illness. To date, they have another store in the middle of town. “The people who come here to work are categorized by the Ministry of Health with over a 40% diagnosis of mental health issues – issues like anxiety, OCD, schizo-

The Jewish Home | FEBRUARY 15, 2024

The Intelligence Failures That Left Israel Vulnerable on October 7 By D. Hart

2018, TJH published an article asking, “Is The IDF Ready For War?” The piece profiled Major General (res.) Yitzchak Brik, the military ombudsman who had been putting out increasingly serious reports about what he said was the army’s dire lack of readiness. Amongst other things, Brik claimed that the IDF suffered from a corrupt corporate culture centered on careerism that resulted in officers only sharing what their superiors wanted to hear. In a series of damning reports, he detailed how the senior command was completely clueless to the realities on the ground, particularly the terrible state of readiness in the Ground Forces and the irrelevant intelligence reports. A veteran of the Yom Kippur War, Brik called for a complete overhaul of the IDF, warning that it was even less prepared for war than it was on the eve of its worst-ever intelligence failure in 1973. For this, Brik was deemed persona non grata by defense establishment elites. Speaking his mind cost Brik coveted speaking slots on prime time television and at academic conferences. The decorated general went from a widely respected military expert to a national laughing stock within a remarkably short span of time. That changed after October 7, when Hamas pulled off the worst massacre in Israel’s history. Overwhelming the meager contingent of troops stationed along the Gaza border, the 3,000 terrorists unleashed chaos, per-

petrating kidnappings, murders, and acts of brutality unparalleled since the Holocaust. Numerous voices have highlighted the shocking intelligence failure leading up to the tragedy. Israel’s revered intelligence apparatus, known for its prowess, faltered tragically and failed to anticipate and forestall the October 7 massacre. However, the lapses extended well beyond intelligence failures; operational missteps compounded the dire situation. The Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) were, regrettably, unprepared for the coordinated onslaught orchestrated by Hamas, leading to devastating consequences that shook the nation to its core. A pillar of military strategy is that combat troops need to prepare as if there were no intelligence in order to avoid being caught off guard. But that was exactly what happened, as the mistaken belief that Hamas was not interested in war resulted in the IDF senior command reducing forces to a dangerously low level. With an insufficient number of troops manning the Gaza border, the IDF was unable to mount a robust defense against the onslaught. Hamas’ Nukhba commandos easily overran the defenses, leading to widespread panic and, tragically, a massacre that unfolded before the eyes of a nation. What occurred wasn’t simply a few missteps but the collapse of an entire military. The IDF effectively ceased to exist for much of that dark day; with no command and control systems working, the general staff in the situation room at headquarters was forced to scroll Hamas Telegram groups to get an accurate picture of

what was happening. Pilots and drone operators used television reports for targeting information, having no idea where the terrorists were at any given moment. Soldiers on leave, retired policemen and anyone with a weapon rushed to the Gaza border, armed with nothing more than their personal sidearms and plunging into the fighting as an ad-hoc unit. In other words, Major General Yitzhak Brik had been right about everything. The events of October 7 showed for the first time that something was deeply rotten in the IDF.

very possible red flag was waving on the night of October 6. Alarmed by reports of highly irregular Hamas activity in Gaza, IDF Chief of Staff Herzi Halevi, Shin Bet internal security agency chief Roni Bar, and Southern Command head Major General Yaron Finkleman held an emergency Zoom call. After an hour of deliberations, the three concluded that all of the warning signs were likely no more than a Hamas training exercise – nothing to worry about. The handful of IDF troops guarding the Gaza border were not informed of anything out of the ordinary, and Military Intelligence Directorate Chief Aharon Haliva chose not to interrupt his vacation in Eilat to join the fateful Zoom chat. Upon being questioned about his absence, Haliva admitted that he would have come to the same conclusion as everyone else: Hamas was deterred and was not

will continue to exist until Islam will obliterate it, just as it obliterated others before it,” it reminds the reader that “Jihad becomes the individual duty of every Moslem – in the face of the Jews’ usurpation, it is compulsory that the banner of Jihad be raised.” The Konseptzia distorted every aspect of Israel’s intelligence gathering apparatus. Fueled by the official military intelligence assessment that “Hamas had no interest in launching an attack from Gaza that might invite a devastating response from Israel,” senior officers dismissed any and all signs of the coming assault. A special forces unit tasked exclusively with moni-

With no command and control systems working, the general staff in the situation room at headquarters was forced to scroll Hamas Telegram groups to get an accurate picture of what was happening. to war without Egypt, then there was no threat of war from either countries as long as Cairo didn’t get hold of surface-to-air missiles. The perils of unwavering belief in the Konseptzia led the IDF to systematically downplay the possibility of war. Every indicator, every warning, was filtered through this doctrinal lens and deemed inconsequential. Yet, the Konseptzia transcended mere intelligence; it was a cornerstone of Israeli policy, deeply embedded within the highest echelons of leadership. This time around, the Kontzeptzia revolved around Hamas’ apparent moderate turn. Needing to run the Gaza Strip and provide basic services such as schools and collecting the trash for over 3 million residents, Hamas had supposedly decided to abandon terrorism in order to care for its constituents. Hamas itself did everything it could to support this illusion, remaining on the sidelines during rounds of hostilities between Israel and the Palestinian Islamic Jihad and feeding the Shin Bet intelligence on the latter’s plans. At one point, Hamas Gaza chief Yahya Sinwar even sent Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu a handwritten letter in Hebrew urging him to “take a calculated risk” during truce talks in 2018. The very fact that Israel was involved in negotiations in 2018 for a long-term ceasefire shows how it was blind to Hamas’ true intentions. Truly believing that Hamas had abandoned its violent struggle, Israel stood ready to allow tens of millions of dollars in Qatari cash to enter Gaza on a regular basis, to pay Hamas civil servants as well as support needy Gazan families. This, from a terrorist group that had already killed thousands of Israelis and was working night and day to build up military forces for the sole task of attacking Israel – naval commandos, a formidable rocket arsenal, and hundreds of miles of tunnels. The official Hamas charter leaves no room for doubt. Featuring passages stating that “Israel will exist and

toring Hamas movements to prevent a surprise attack had half of its manpower axed and its activities reduced to part-time. With violence in Judea and Samaria exploding throughout 2022, the Shin Bet internal security service slowly shifted its vast collection apparatus from Gaza to the West Bank. Assuming that Hamas was disinterested in war, the IDF focused on covering Hezbollah and Iran. In the year running up to October 7, the vaunted 8200 Signals Intelligence Unit ceased eavesdropping on Hamas’ radio network. When their counterparts at the National Security Agency in the United States reached out to understand the meaning of this change, they were told that listening to Hamas walkie talkies “is a waste of time.” Someone who was still listening, though, was Raphael Hayun, an amateur radio enthusiast who was convinced that disaster was in the offing after hearing Hamas training exercises on the powerful device he kept in his basement. But his frantic attempts to alert the military went nowhere, as senior officers at the Gaza Division literally laughed in his face. “They said that Hamas was deterred, that there would be years of quiet on the border. My last meeting with them was less than a month before the massacre,” Hayun recalled to Israel’s Channel 12. The mistakes kept mounting. In July, a veteran subject matter expert at Unit 8200 succeeded in getting her hands

on the entire Hamas battle plan for the October 7 th invasion. Shocked by what she found, the analyst canceled her scheduled vacation to brief Israel Defense Forces Intelligence Directorate Chief Maj. Gen. Aharon Haliva. Yet Israel’s spy chief refused to hear of it, dismissing her warnings of the looming cross border attack as “imaginative” and chalking up the attack orders as something intended solely for internal training purposes. This was despite the fact that Hamas does not commonly create detailed operational plans solely for internal consumption; similar intelligence intercepts in the past were always for military operations that Hamas was planning to actually carry out. “There’s always a first time for everything,” Haliva reportedly replied when challenged by more junior officers. Then there were the three dozen Field Observers, female IDF soldiers who monitor live camera feeds of the border twenty-four hours a day. Based out of a forward operating post adjoining the fence, they are a central node in Israel’s intelligence gathering system and are tasked with scrambling forces to respond to any attempt to breach the border fence. Their Nahal Oz base was overrun on October 7, with all but two of them killed or taken hostage. The two survivors recounted that in the months leading up to the invasion, they had been sounding alarms about its planning. The Field Observers witnessed Hamas terrorists undergoing training to seize control of kibbutzim and IDF bases, practicing hostage-taking, and blowing up tanks. They observed terror commanders overseeing the drills, and Hamas recon units testing the fence for vulnerabilities. Despite reporting these concerns, high-ranking officers in the intelligence corps ordered them to cease their efforts. When the observers persisted in reporting, they were warned of disciplinary action and potential removal from the unit. Convinced that Hamas was more interested in supplying civil services than jihadist struggle, top decisionmakers viewed the warnings as a headache at best.

FEBRUARY 15, 2024 | The Jewish Home

interested in war. This logic underpins every mistake and misstep on October 7 – from covert and high-level negotiations between Israel and Hamas to the inadequate number of soldiers on the border that day. The overarching failure throughout the litany of strategic and operational missteps was the “Conception” or “Konseptzia,” as it’s known in Hebrew – a term originally coined to describe the mistaken beliefs that underpinned the intelligence failure of the Yom Kippur War. The thinking went that if Egypt would only go to war to win back the Sinai Desert but couldn’t without advanced air defense systems, and Syria wouldn’t go

The Jewish Home | FEBRUARY 15, 2024

he intel failure was not only conceptual but touched directly on how intelligence was gathered. Israel traditionally excelled in cultivating human sources and running spies, in light of its mastery of Arabic and Middle Eastern culture. Israel, as a nation, is characterized by a diverse population with individuals from various backgrounds, cultures, and languages. This diversity is an asset in intelligence operations, enabling agents to blend into different environments more effectively. In recent years, however, Israel leaned increasingly on technological mastery – satellite photos, hacking cell phones and imagery from hidden cameras. This was both the result of its dominance in the cyber realm and the difficulty of gaining access to informants in Gaza. But as advanced as it may be, nothing can replace the intelligence supplied by people embedded deep into an enemy organization. At the same time, Hamas went offline – using couriers to communicate, not writing anything down on devices connected to the internet, and staying off the phone in order to foil Israel’s tech dominance. Israel’s failure left it blind to what Hamas was planning. The Konseptzia was a key reason for the Gaza Division’s Intelligence Officer’s unit-wide memo a week before the invasion concluding that “warnings of a Hamas invasion are overblown and unrealistic.” “The other side learned to deal with our technological dominance, and they stopped using technology that could expose it,” noted Brigadier General Amir Avivi, formally the IDF military intelligence community’s liaison to the Ministry of Defense. “They’ve gone back to the Stone Age. In practice, hundreds, if not thousands, of Hamas men were preparing for a surprise attack for months, without that having leaked.” The overreliance on technology was not limited to intelligence but permeated the entire IDF. It was a key reason for the shocking operational failure on October 7 that left the border woefully undermanned and set the stage for the subsequent bloodbath. For years, senior officers had invested extraordinary sums of money in order to create a “smart border” designed to make “boots on the ground” obsolete. The centerpiece was the hulking NIS 10 billion barrier constructed in 2016 featuring advanced sensors, video cameras, underground tunnel-detecting technology and pressure-sensitive panels. Then there were the Bardalas autonomous vehicles armed with .50 caliber belt-fed weapons that patrolled throughout the day, remote shooting platforms, and thermal cameras equipped with advanced Artificial Intelligence. “A terrorist approaching Israel from Gaza with an AK-47 can be spotted and neutralized without a single soldier even getting within shooting range,” boasted an IDF general in 2021. Together with the widespread belief that Hamas was

not interested in war, the array of sophisticated technological systems on the border led military planners to cut the number of troops stationed on the border to dangerously low levels. The already-low number of troops was reduced even further on October 7 due to it being the Simchat Torah holiday – causing commanders to send home on leave half of the soldiers at their disposal. Former Defense Minister Avigdor Liberman paid a social visit to a community on the Gaza border on October 6 and was astounded at how little troops were left guarding it. “I had never seen anything like it before. I have been in politics and government for over three decades and know how a border is supposed to look,” he recalled a few

full-on battle was out of the question. Huddling in the reinforced shelters both blinded the frontline troops to what was occurring outside and left them sitting ducks for the thousands of terrorists pouring across the border. This was not an accident, as Hamas had studied IDF procedures for years and purposely began the onslaught by bombarding military positions in order to send them to a death trap. The soldiers who responded first were fighting a hopeless battle. They were not equipped with heavy weapons or anything that could have actually made a difference such as grenades, belt-fed machine guns, and shoulder-launched missiles. On that dark day, around 500 IDF soldiers armed with nothing more than rifles faced off with 3,500 Hamas terrorists on pickup trucks and motorcycles wielding rocket propelled grenades and .50-caliber machine guns. They fought valiantly but never stood a chance. The Golani and Armored Corps soldiers who fell in the early hours of October 7 were the first victims of a colossal intelligence failure that refused to be convinced by reality.

days after the massacre. “Where were the soldiers? Why didn’t I see anyone? When I asked a senior commander, he said that everything was fine and that nothing would happen anyway.” The lack of adequate manpower extended to the air force. Incredibly, only two Apache attack helicopters were on standby and were based in a faraway base in the Galilee – 45 minutes flying time from Gaza. It took almost four hours on October 7 to scramble another squadron of helicopter crews to their base and into the air, valuable time that could have made a key difference in blunting the Hamas invasion in its early hours. Furthermore, only one drone was combat-ready that day and was used solely for collecting intelligence, without the ability to launch missiles at the oncoming horde. Finally, the Konseptzia that reigned supreme had a direct effect on the few soldiers that remained on ground. Believing the intelligence reports concluding that “Hamas is deterred” from making war on Israel, the frontline troops were unprepared mentally and physically. The Hamas invasion on October 7 kicked off at 6:30 AM with a massive rocket volley to the bases on the Gaza border. Instead of heading to their positions, the soldiers ran directly for the bomb shelters out of the belief that

he aftermath of October 7 will prompt a reevaluation of Israel’s defense strategies and a call for accountability within the military leadership. Questions regarding the allocation of resources, the adequacy of troop deployments, and the responsiveness of the IDF to emerging threats have come to the forefront of public discourse. Why had the military’s munitions stockpiles stood at only 20% on October 7, forcing Israel to beg the United States for emergency resupply, thus limiting the government’s freedom of action as a result? Why had the IDF over the past years invested mainly in special forces and the air forces to the detriment of regular ground troops and the reserves? More critically, how was Hamas able to dig a jaw-dropping 850 kilometers of tunnels underneath Gaza – most of it unknown to what was until recently described as a world-class intelligence service? How was Hamas able to smuggle enormous qualities of industrial drilling and mining equipment despite the Gaza Strip being under siege by the IDF for over 15 years? In the wake of this unprecedented event, Israel faces the challenge of rebuilding confidence in its defense capabilities. The October 7 invasion serves as a stark reminder that even the most advanced military forces can find themselves unprepared, necessitating a thorough examination of intelligence-gathering processes, strategic planning, and overall readiness. The lessons learned from this tragic episode will undoubtedly shape the future of Israel’s defense posture as the nation seeks to prevent a recurrence of such a devastating breach. The writer is an intelligence officer in the IDF who just finished three months of reserve duty in Gaza.

FEBRUARY 15, 2024 | The Jewish Home

nspiration Nation

The Jewish Home | FEBRUARY 15, 2024

Eylon Levy

Fighting The Information War By Eliyahu RosEnBERg

here are many faces, forms, and manifestations of antisemitism. From conspiracy theories to harmful stereotypes to hostile religions – Jew hatred has been around for millennia. But the antisemitism of today is different in many ways from the antisemitism of yesteryear: today it is more insidious, it is masked behind fancy words and complex ideologies – the existence of antisemitism today is almost flat-out denied.

Of course, there are still neo-Nazis who will, out in the open, rally against Jews and loudly echo the words of men who shall not be named. There are also conspiracy theorists who will wave around big signs on the street and rant on social media, warning people about the impending threat of “Jewish world domination.” Such people no doubt exist, but they belong to extremist, fringe groups who represent only a minority

In His Words… We are David against goliath in the information war.

”

We are committed to the state of israel’s sacred pledge that has guided us ever since we reclaimed our sovereignty in our ancient land, out of the ashes of the holocaust. The state of israel will go to the ends of the Earth to bring our people home to safety and to bring their tormentors to justice.

”

at the moment of truth, we dropped everything and we came together to face the common enemy... and i’m so proud to belong to this resilient nation.

”

on october 7, we woke up to an evil on par with the nazis… so, how do we, as the Jewish people, continue now in a world in which the nazis are no longer the ultimate symbol of evil?

”

in the world of antisemitism. The real threat comes from those who deny their antisemitic identities but through their actions alone expose their true nature to the world. “I’m not an antisemite. I’m an anti-Zionist” is an assertion that has been made by countless individuals who insist that they harbor no hatred towards the Jewish people despite campaigning endlessly for the elimination of the world’s only Jewish state. These are the people who hurl libelous accusations at Israel, who hate the state so intensely that they hold it to standards that no nation could possibly live up to. Many were reminded of the Holocaust after witnessing the unspeakably tragic October 7 th terrorist attacks in which 1,200 Jews were brutally murdered and more than 200 others were taken captive by the Hamas terrorist organization, marking the darkest day in Jewish history since the Shoah. Israel has since vowed to destroy Hamas, and while the Jewish state battles in Gaza to accomplish its aim, the country is also fighting an ancillary battle: the information war. * * * A voice of reason in a time of chaos, Eylon Levy, a spokesman for the Israeli government, has in recent months emerged as one of the most influential figures in Israel. Having worked previously as a television news anchor and a foreign media advisor for Israeli President Isaac Herzog, Eylon knew that he had to do something to help Israel after

the October 7 massacre. He thus jumped into action, becoming a spokesperson for the government. Representing the Jewish state and speaking up for the truth, Eylon has been tasked with the job of fighting against misinformation and lies about Israel spread by Palestinian supporters. As is the case with typical antisemitism, the hatred of Israel is not based on facts or logic. Regardless of what Israel does, it cannot win, for as long as the Jewish state retains its Jewish identity, its haters will never relent in their opposition. But Israel is not waging the information war in an effort to change the minds of antisemites; it is fighting to show reason to those who want the truth. The biggest issue, however, is that we’re outnumbered. “We are David against Goliath in the information war,” Mr. Levy explained. “The fact is, there are only 16 million Jews – not all of them are with us – and so many more Arabs, so many more Muslims, so many more people who are automatically receptive to the Palestinians’ message. We are outnumbered and outgunned in the information war, and that’s why we have to fight back extra hard.” In the information war, Israel is facing attacks from every direction, with critics demanding an immediate ceasefire. But there can be no truce, there can be no peace, until Hamas is destroyed, because as long as Israel is neighbors with a group that is fully committed to its destruction, Israel cannot be safe. To demand a ceasefire is to give further

in which the Nazis are no longer the ultimate symbol of evil?” Israel fights to protect itself and its people against Hamas and, as Eylon explains, takes every measure possible to prevent civilian casualties. But the terror group uses its own people as pawns in its sick game of destruction, as it hides in schools, hospitals, and other civilian areas. And yet, Israel is the one to be accused of genocide. “We didn’t want this war, we didn’t start this war, we didn’t even expect this war, but it is a war that we have to win because if we don’t, Hamas will drag us into a war again because it is threatening to perpetrate more October 7 massacres,” he said. “There is no one in the world right now who wants this war to

end more than the Israeli people. We want the hostages home, we want our friends who are in the reserves to come home, and we want to go back to our lives and rebuild this country, but we don’t have the luxury of making this conflict go away and retreating to safety.” While it may seem as though anti-Israel views are becoming more mainstream and “politically correct,” it is important to note, adds Mr. Levy, that social media, which is often used as a forum for hate, does not accurately reflect the real world. Although it might seem as though the loudest voices are coming from pro-Hamas and pro-Palestinian protesters, such individuals are likely just the vocal minority. Of course, every cloud has a silver

lining. Although no words can possibly describe the tragedy of October 7, perhaps we can find some joy in reminding ourselves of the Jewish people’s immediate and sudden response to the attacks: coming together as one united family. “Israel had spent the last few years of deep political and domestic turmoil: back-to-back elections, constant infighting, a year of the largest protests this country had ever seen. People were bandying the word ‘civil war’ in the air, wondering how we could live with each other. The political debate had poisoned the atmosphere,” Eylon notes. “But at the moment of truth, we dropped everything, and we came together to face the common enemy... and I’m so proud to belong to this resilient nation.”

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.

FEBRUARY 15, 2024 | The Jewish Home

opportunities for attack to the terrorist organization that sought to recreate the horrors of the Holocaust on October 7 in hopes of exterminating as many Jews as possible. “For so long, we have been used to thinking of the Nazis as an unparalleled level of evil. It was simply ontologically impossible for anything to approximate the evil of the Nazis,” Eylon said. “On October 7, we woke up to an evil on par with the Nazis, and the only difference is the means, because if Hamas had the means to do what the Nazis did, we have no doubt they would have done it and they would have taken glee in doing so. So, how do we, as the Jewish people, continue now in a world

The Jewish Home | FEBRUARY 15, 2024

Dating Dialogue

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

Dear Navidaters,

My 35-year-old brother (I’ll call him Avi) has been dating a girl for two months. He seems to like her, but my family and I find some things a bit off with her. For instance, when she came

to our hometown to spend a week with Avi, even though she was staying right next door, she specifically did not want to come by and meet our family. She also does not agree to have Avi come to her hometown and meet her family. What should we do? Do we tell him that these things are not normal, thereby maybe jeopardizing his feelings for her? Or do we keep quiet about our feelings? Thank you! -Ariella

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

The Panel he’s dating when he or she is ready. This might spark up a conversation about why he has not introduced her yet.

Rebbetzin Faigie Horowitz, M.S.

riella, your brother is 35 years old. He is neither a kid nor a novice at dating. It could be that they are taking it slow, and she came to your town to keep the dating going in person but they don’t want pressure. It could be that he is protecting her privacy by assuring her that she won’t have to meet the family if she was anxious about coming. Lay off and see what happens. If your brother didn’t include his siblings in her trip, respect him and stay out of things. When he is ready to involve his family, he will do so.

The Shadchan Michelle Mond

can completely understand why you would feel like something is off, based on your description of this situation. I mean, what woman would come to the hometown of a guy she’s been dating for two months, stay next door, and not agree to meet the family (even for only for a quick hello)? When you decline an invitation, it makes a statement. Kal v’chomer, an invitation to the guy you’re seriously dating’s home. There must be a deeper reason for this decision, we do not know this reason, but your brother just might. It sounds like there could have been a negative past experience associated with meeting the parents (on both sides) that is fueling this. As curious as you are to discuss this at length with your brother, I would suggest letting it go for now. In sibling relationships, feeling judged can be the most painful experience. If he wants to talk to you about it, he will bring it up, but it is not worth jeopardizing your relationship. Planting the seed that something might be wrong with her, when you yourself don’t know the whole story, is not the best move. What you can do is tell him gently that you’d love to meet the girl

The Mother Ariella Weinstein

s a mother of a few children who have gone through the shidduch process, I have encouraged my children to meet with their date’s parents as early as possible. This way, I felt that they were able to understand more about their dates by seeing where they come from. Remember, many apples don’t fall too far from the tree, or at least you can understand which tree this apple came from, even if it is not very similar to its roots. In other words, meeting the parents helps to give context and background to the person you are dating. That being said, I wouldn’t put too much into the fact that this young lady doesn’t want to “meet the family” yet. Every person is comfortable in different situations. It could be this person has met other families before and it didn’t turn out well. It could be she’s extremely shy and is not comfortable meeting new people. And it also could be that, for her, dating for two months isn’t that big of a deal and she has no interest (yet) in meeting you guys. Once things progress, though, I am sure she would love to meet you. Don’t get too tied up in the “meeting the family” issue. Chat with your brother about what he likes about this young lady he is dating. Show him you are interested in hearing about her. And give him the space to allow the relationship to grow.

The Zaidy Dr. Jeffrey Galler

ne of the frustrations with writing this column is that after receiving a Navidater question, there is so much more information and so many addi-

tional details that I’d like to have before venturing an opinion. But we don’t get an opportunity to communicate with the person who sent the question. And, my wife reminds me, somewhat sarcastically, that lack of sufficient information has never stopped me from offering my opinion. So, here goes: At 35 years of age, your brother is not a newcomer to the world of dating. It is very possible that over the years, he, and perhaps his girlfriend as well, have had some bad experiences with relationships. And, as a result, perhaps they wish to proceed very slowly and very cautiously. Meeting each other’s families would certainly accelerate the intensity of this relationship, and, perhaps, they’re simply not quite ready for that. By contrast, it would be a red flag if she agreed to meet your brother’s family, while refusing to let him meet her family. Or, vice versa: It would be a red

Not everyone is on the same timeline.

flag if she introduced him to her family, while refusing to meet his family. If so, you might legitimately wonder what she’s trying to hide. Because we don’t know many important details here, let’s simply assume that they are taking things slowly and carefully, and want to be very sure, before taking their relationship to the next level. You certainly don’t want to pressure your 35-year-old brother. But you could, very sweetly, mention, “Your girlfriend sounds terrific. I’d sure like to meet her one of these days.” Meanwhile, you could start, very quietly, to check out the latest in bridesmaids’ dresses.

FEBRUARY 15, 2024 | The Jewish Home

The Rebbetzin

The Jewish Home | FEBRUARY 15, 2024

Pulling It All Together The Navidaters Dating and Relationship Coaches and Therapists

ear Ariella, Thank you so much for writing! In my opinion, you need not keep quiet. As a matter of fact, I think it is imperative to bring up your concerns with Avi, as loving and caring family members. I first must state the obvious: there may be things about this relationship that you do not know.

Avi and this woman may have discussed b e t w e e n a nd amongst themselves that they will not be meeting families yet. They may have decided together that they are not ready yet. Not everyone is on the same timeline. You can ask him about that. If this is where

his relationship is, you will need to respect that and Avi’s process. If this is the case, please disregard the rest of my response. If this is not the case, the rest of the response is applicable. This behavior definitely raises an eyebrow, if not a flag. Bring it up with love and sensitivity and encourage him to explore his own feelings about her seemingly avoiding meeting the family. In certain circles, people do not meet the family at the two-month mark, but if this is customary in circles you travel in, then the behavior isn’t typical and may be indicative of something. Though Avi’s feelings may change for this woman, that is not a reason to avoid

Your brother is not a newcomer to the world of dating.

having the conversation. This conversation may bring about positive changes in his relationship with this woman and bring them closer together. It may also be the impetus for an inevitable breakup. Wishing you all the best. Sincerely, Jennifer

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

FEBRUARY 15, 2024 | The Jewish Home

The Jewish Home | FEBRUARY 15, 2024

Parenting Pearls

Navigating Simchas Smoothly By Sara Rayvych, MSEd

azal tov! It’s wedding season in our family, and, chasdei Hashem, we are fortunate to have upcoming simchas. Every big event requires major preparations, and hours of time will be dedicated to the numerous details. It wasn’t until I got married that I appreciated how many small things are involved in making a five-hour event run smoothly. And, it’s not until you have children who will be attending this momentous occasion that you can recognize what goes into preparing little people for big events. A wedding signifies the beginning of a new Jewish home, one that we pray will be eternal and built on kedusha. Marriage is a gift from Hashem, and the couple eagerly looks forward to their future together. Through constantly giving to each other, they become greater as individuals, and their marriage develops into far more than two united halves. In a society that continuously diminishes the importance of marriage, we value the commitment and holiness it brings. More than just a tax deduction, it’s a vehicle to personal growth and avodas Hashem.

Kids and Weddings Chasunas, like many formal events, are anything but child-friendly. As a general rule, children do not belong at these events. It’s unfair to the children, who are expected to act more mature than they are capable of, and to the baalei simcha, who may not appreciate a toddler’s tantrums. Weddings are one of the many adult-centered events that, for valid reasons, exclude children. Every rule has exceptions. Nursing or very young infants can’t be separated from their main caregiver for an extended period of time. Being that infants don’t run away or throw things, we don’t need to be concerned they will interrupt the ceremony. Most babies will simply sleep the majority of the time with frequent breaks to eat. Children who are close family members are also an exception to this rule,

they are in the same room as the band. More important than allowing the baby to sleep or the toddler to stay calm, the headphones will protect their ears from the music that is louder than safe levels.

Staying Fashionable

and their presence truly enhances the simcha for the family. Some of the most treasured memories often consist of the antics of a sweet grandchild or adorable nephew/niece. One of my favorite pictures from my chasuna shows us standing together under the chuppah, surrounded by our parents, as my fiveyear-old sister reaches out curiously to touch my gown. I never even knew it happened until seeing the photos. It’s the youngest members of the family who will be eagerly sought out for dancing with the chosson or kalla. For the parents of these precious youngsters, a little preparation can help keep their antics sweet and their meltdowns few. Children need supervision throughout the event. Whenever a young child is present during the chuppah, an adult should be next to them and seated in close proximity to an exit. This easily permits the adult to quickly step out with the child as soon as the little one becomes noisy. It is age appropriate for young children and infants to talk as they see exciting things. We aren’t punishing them by removing them from the chuppah; we are simply allowing the ceremony to proceed without extraneous noise. It can be upsetting for adults

to miss the chuppah, but it’s much harder for the baalei simcha to have chatter and screaming in the background. Many parents will appreciate having a hired babysitter who can watch their child during the times they don’t want to miss, such as the chuppah, or when the inevitable sleep takes over their little one’s body. It’s best to hire someone the child knows, but certainly someone who isn’t a close relative; it’s not fair to expect another family member to do this job and miss the occasion. Weddings are loud and involve lots of people. Both the noise and crowds can easily overwhelm children. Be mindful of children who will be sensitive to these stimuli and find a safe spot you can bring them to when they need to be calmed. It may be slightly outside the main area – you don’t need an ir miklat – but it can give a child time to get back to themselves. It helps to remember that an overwhelmed child isn’t being rude or misbehaving. They truly can’t function when their senses are overstimulated. Some children require a toy or some other item that provides comfort. Consider bringing it along. Babies and little ones should always wear noise-canceling headphones when

Children look adorable all dressed up, and many teenage girls eagerly await wearing their specially picked gown. The girls may have their hair done; the boys can be wearing matching ties. Despite the beautiful pictures that emerge from their fancy attire, children are not reliable at maintaining the expensive – and often irreplaceable – clothing they will wear. They run through the hall, spill tomato sauce on themselves, and think white shirts are extra large napkins. Generally, teens can be relied upon to take care of their simcha wear, but younger ones won’t be capable of remaining neat. Use your judgment to determine a child’s ability to stay clean, and even teens can be gently reminded to be mindful of their outfit. Feed all children before getting to the hall and dress the young ones only once they arrive. This prevents hunger meltdowns and allows them to make a mess when they’re wearing their regular clothing. There are specific times that children are expected to be clean and presentable: pre-wedding photos, if they’re walking down to the chuppah, and just afterwards for family photos. It’s at these times that you don’t want a large barbecue sauce stain across their front. The photos before the event are easiest since the child has just dressed and hasn’t eaten yet. It’s the pictures after the shmorg that pose the greatest challenge. The buffet is like a giant kiddush, and the kids don’t want to miss it. Bibs can be helpful, even for kids that may not generally use them. For boys, I have found that it’s easiest to have extra white shirts prepared. I bring an extra one or two shirts so they can change just before the chuppah and still have a spare one.

Always Learning Everything can – and should be – a teaching moment. Attending a wedding can be educational for children and teens. Still, they will gain the most from the simcha (and it will run smoothest) when they are prepared in advance. Children don’t instinctively know how to behave in certain situations, and what’s obvious to us isn’t clear to them. We know to be quiet during the chuppah, but they don’t know it’s not a big stage on which to perform their latest dance moves. We understand the respect that should be granted to the elderly grandparents as they walk down the aisle, but children don’t realize it’s not the time to loudly scream, “Who is that person?” We are so familiar with chasunas

that we fail to understand how unusual this is to others. If you think of how a chasuna appears to a non-Jew or someone who is not religious, you can begin to appreciate how unexpected a wedding will seem to a child. Take the time to explain what will happen throughout the wedding, espe-

panim. They should sit at the table or wait until you walk around with them to get food. During the chuppah, they need to sit quietly, and they have the option of standing when everyone else does. When everyone screams mazal tov and starts singing, they can join in. They should stay with you until the others

Despite the beautiful pictures that emerge from their fancy attire, children are not reliable at maintaining the expensive – and often irreplaceable – clothing they will wear.

cially what is expected of them. I’ll include some practical examples, but their developmental level is the best guide for what they need to hear. For example, during pictures before the wedding, they can play in the hallway, but when it’s their turn they need to sit quietly for the photographer. There will be yummy food during the kabbalas

have left the room, so they don’t get lost in the crowd. You may want to tell them more than once about these caveats and do so well in advance of the big day. In addition to preparing them for what to expect and the appropriate behavior, this is the perfect time to share with them some of the beautiful and deeply meaningful reasons behind

the various parts of the ceremony and unique minhagim of your family. They may appreciate hearing why the chosson puts a veil on his bride or why the fathers bless the kallah. Everything we do – from picking the witnesses to being married under the open sky – is done with intent and meaning. Teens, especially, can appreciate the deeper meanings of the chasuna and some of the hashkafos for what a Jewish marriage means. It’s truly a bracha to be able to share the special moments of a chasuna with your child. It’s a magical moment and one that children rarely get to be a part of. May Hashem help all of our children to easily find their zivug, and may we merit many beautiful new homes in Klal Yisroel. I’d like to wish a tremendous mazel tov to Max Simanowitz and Chen Fischbein on their upcoming chasuna.

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.

FEBRUARY 15, 2024 | The Jewish Home

The kallah often has chosen colors for the family to wear. Whenever possible, it’s my personal opinion that it’s best to do what you can to respect her wishes. This is her big day, and if she envisions her nieces and nephew in matching outfits, it’s best to go along. You shouldn’t spend your child’s yeshiva tuition on an outfit but let them match even if the colors aren’t to your liking.

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By Etti Siegel

Dear Etti, I never heard of the term “snowplow parenting.” How is that different from helicopter parenting, a term I have heard

a lot about? Also, I feel like educators and therapists are just looking to put down caring parents with all this terminology. Why is parent-bashing a thing? What is the big deal if parents want to help their kids more? Please explain. -Feeling Attacked Dear Feeling Attacked, Before I answer your question, I just want to share that I am sorry you are feeling attacked, a very strong term and feeling. Please understand that this column is informational (and hopefully interesting and educational), and by no means meant to attack anyone. To answer your question, Dr. Michael Roeske, a licensed clinical psychologist and senior director at Newport Healthcare Center for Research and Innovation, offers an explanation: Helicopter parents hover. They keep an eye

on a child’s every move and swoop in to help if they feel their child needs advocating (or fighting) for. The snowplow parent doesn’t even wait to see if their child is having an issue. They want to smooth the path before the child even steps on it. One of the most talked about problems children face today is self-confidence. We see it in the high level of anxiety, depression, and helplessness children are exhibiting. The way to build a child’s self-confidence is by teaching them to celebrate their talents and interests and how to handle failure and criticism. Snowplow parents, and in many ways, helicopter parents, don’t allow their children to deal with obstacles in their lives. This is done from a place of love, as the parent actually thinks that by removing all pain and discomfort, they are helping their child. Instead, the parent is removing

their child’s opportunity to learn coping skills and problem-solving skills. They take away a child’s ability to learn the difference between possibly dangerous situations and normal stressful situations. It is overly controlling and very pessimistic in nature. The parent thinks of all the ways a situation can go wrong and then makes sure that none can happen to their child. Examples might include: Rarely or never telling a child no when they make a request. Not allowing a child to enroll in or join an activity they might not excel at. Being quick to assume their child is always right and defending their child in all situations. Constantly packing up their child’s homework and permission slips for their child, coming to school to hand

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sprinkle in a few nos, even when saying alert, they often actually make it to the Look into yes would be easier. kitchen with the dishes intact!) “good enough Children do not come with instrucParents should be specific as they tion manuals, and children in the same praise, telling children exactly what parenting” and family can need different approaches. they did right so they can feel proud revel in the There are many wonderful parenting and know what to do again. If parents courses parents can take without shame, do not convey that they believe in their imperfections in fact, parents tell me they feel validatchildren, their children will pick up on that make that fact and not believe in themselves. ed and more supported as they work Allowing children to fail and then through the kind of parents they want people human. being supportive and showing unconto be. There are fantastic therapists who can offer a more private experience for ditional love teaches children that their parents are their safety net, but allow them independence, those who want anonymity and a one-on-one experience. Research gives us a clear view of the pitfalls of trying which they need to learn to be healthy adults. After the sting passes, parents can coach their kids on how to handle to be a perfect parent. It is not worth it. Do the best you can with the tools you have…and ask the situation differently next time. Giving children the ability to learn how to communi- for help every once in a while. Most successful parents do. Hatzlacha, cate, how to share frustrations and complaints properly, - Etti and how to have difficult conversations is a gift. Instead of speaking to the child’s teacher, parents teach their child Much of the information in this column was culled from two how to speak up respectfully, only advocating when all oth- articles: “Snowplow Parenting: What It Is, Impacts, and How er avenues failed and the issue needs intervention. Most to Avoid It,” by Maggie Holland MA, MHP, LMHC, and medissues don’t. ically reviewed by Rajy Abulhosn, MD (May 20, 2022) and Parents need to say no. Children have to hear those “How Snowplow Parenting Impacts Kids, According to a Psywords and learn to accept them. So while parents want chologist,” by Sanjana Gupta, medically reviewed by Yolanda to give everything they can to their children, they need to Renteria, LPC (August 08, 2023)

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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FEBRUARY 15, 2024 | The Jewish Home

deliver homework or permission slips left at home, doing projects for their children, and bringing them to school for them so they are just right. Managing and preventing conflict by being in constant contact with all the people who impact their child’s life, like teachers, the principal, friends, counselors, coaches, heads of production, camp directors, counselors, etc. Children of such overprotective parenting struggle. They can’t handle being told “no,” they often develop a fear of failure, they can have poor problem-solving skills, they can become easily frustrated, they are known to be more anxious than other children of similar ages and stages and usually suffer from low self-esteem. Parents who want to build strong and resilient children should consider the following: Stop trying to be the perfect parent. Look into “good enough parenting” and revel in the imperfections that make people human. This will allow formerly “perfect parents” to let their children explore and test the boundaries of their world, deal with the consequences, and grow from setbacks. Abandoning the perfect image will allow parents to accept whatever the outcome is without rushing in to help and fix it. To build self-confidence, parents have to show children that they trust them. Let them carry the dishes to the kitchen even though they might drop them. (Spoiler

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102

Health & F tness

Is Organic Food Worth the Hype? By Tehila Levine-Soskel, RDN, CDN

rganic foods are amongst some of the most popular topics over recent years with many individuals labeling them as a healthier alternative to conventionally grown produce. What used to once be elusive can now be found in most grocery stores. According to the U.S. Organic Industry Survey in 2020, $56 billion were spent by consumers on organic produce. So, is it really worth the price and is it safer, healthier or tastier than conventionally grown produce? Is it really worth the hype? Organic foods include dairy products like milk and cheese, fruits, vegetables, grains, and meat. Organic foods are grown without the use of genetically modified organisms (GMO), synthetic pesticides (used for pest control), artificial fertilizers, growth hormones for farm animals, or irradiation. The following goals have to be met for organic farming: cut pollution, provide safe healthy places for the farm animals, improve soil and water quality, promote a self-sustaining cycle of resources on a farm, and enable natural farm animals behavior. To be labeled organic, the food has to be free of all artificial food additives like preservatives, coloring, flavoring, artificial sweeteners, and monosodium glutamate (MSG). Although many food products have some sort of organic label on them, let’s differentiate between a few. The term “100% organic” means that products only contain fully organic ingredients. “Organic” means that at least 95% of the product’s ingredients are organic. The term “made with organic ingredients” means that 70% of the ingredients are organic. Anything made with less than 70% organic ingredients cannot use the USDA seal or be labeled as organic. Each country has its own seal. Some people might confuse the term “natural ingredients” with “organic ingredients.” These two are not the same. The term “natural” on food labels means the product is free of artificial flavors, colors, or preservatives. There is a big debate about if organic produce is more nutritious than non-organic foods. Many organic foods do, in

fact, contain more vitamins and antioxidants than their counterparts. For example, organic grown corn and berries were found to have higher amounts of vitamin C and antioxidants. Furthermore, replac-

meats, are almost 30% lower in organic produce than non-organic foods. Organic dairy such as milk may be more nutritious as it may have higher amounts of iron, vitamin E, carotenoids,

Considering that organic foods don’t use artificial chemicals, your exposure to pesticide residues may be reduced.

ing organic fruits and vegetables may provide additional amounts of antioxidants in your overall diet. Since chemical pesticides are not used on organic produce, they produce more antioxidants, which essentially act as a protective compound. Buying organic fruits and vegetables may be beneficial to your health. For example, strawberries are often the most pesticide-contaminated food so opting for the organic option may be beneficial. Vegetables like spinach and kale are also examples of vegetables with higher levels of pesticide residue than organic crops. Nitrates levels, often found in processed

and omega-3 fatty acids. On the other hand, they may contain less iodine and selenium, both of which are essential to our health. Common food sources of iodine and selenium are eggs, yogurt, milk, fish, chicken, brazil nuts, and brown rice. Some studies showed higher amounts of omega-3 fatty acids in organic versus non-organic produce; other studies did not find much difference. While many studies will find differences between the two types of food, results are limited based on many factors such as weather conditions, soil quality, and the timing of crops harvested. In ad-

dition, animal genetics, diet, farm type, and time of year all play a role in the composition of dairy products and meat. All these factors make it difficult for conclusive studies. Considering that organic foods don’t use artificial chemicals, your exposure to pesticide residues may be reduced. According to some studies, non-organic crops may be found to have four times more the amount of pesticide residues. With that being said, it’s crucial to be aware that those amounts were still under the safety limits. Some ways to help remove some of the chemicals are by washing, scrubbing, peeling or cooking the food. Let’s not be too fooled by the term “organic” as that does not mean it is completely nutritious. Many of these products contain a lot of calories, added sugars, salt, and fats, and are still highly processed. As with any sweets or desserts, organic cookies, ice cream, and chips should be consumed in moderation as these products still lack nutrients despite them being labeled organic. Food choices are better made based on the vitamins and nutrients in the food and what your dietary needs are in lieu of the fact that one is labeled conventional or organic. So, should you buy organic? The evidence of organic foods versus conventionally grown food is truly mixed. Your exposure to artificial chemicals and other added hormones may be reduced by consuming organic food, and you may reap other possible health benefits. Unfortunately, the cost of organic food is not feasible nor are those foods accessible for some people. If you are deciding to buy organic food, it comes down to your personal preferences.

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.

103 jewish women of wisdom

By Miriam Liebermann, MSW

recently celebrated my birthday. It was not what we would refer to as a “major” birthday. But in truth, every birthday is major. The fact that I completed this year, hopefully fulfilling the designated tasks to the satisfaction of my Maker, is certainly a reason to celebrate. Hodu l’Hashem ki tov. As we get older, birthdays become more serious. As a child, it’s all about fun and games – balloons, birthday hats, pinatas, birthday cakes and party favors. I recall one monumental birthday celebration; it was the one that I totally missed. I was in high school. It was the night of our high school Chanukah chagigah. My parents had arranged for family members to come over and celebrate with me upon my return late in the evening from the chagigah. They did not inform me of this plan. I was totally oblivious. I was having a great time at the chagigah. The hour was late. A close friend invited me to sleep over, and I agreed to do so. We arrived at her home, right across the street from our school. I asked for the phone to call home. The only phone was sitting in her parents’ bedroom. Her parents had retired for the night already. I certainly could not disturb her parents. I could not enter their bedroom to use their phone. And so, I never did call home that night. Gulp. So many years later, I still feel guilty. It was not an enjoyable night for my parents. I hope they’ve forgiven me by now. Let’s jump ahead now several decades. Over the years, I’ve learned not to have expectations. Everyone is busy. Preoccupied. Distracted by life. I would celebrate my mother on my birthday. She carried me for nine long months. Labored with me. Cared for and tended to all my needs. Momma certainly deserved my accolades and gratitude. This reversal felt perfectly appropriate. My dear mother passed away 10 years ago. It was time to reframe my birthday celebration. Now it’s between me and my Creator.

There is a Torah source for birthday celebrations. Hashem said, “Beni atah, Ani hayom yildeticha. Sha-al memeni v’etnach, You are My son, I have begotten you this day. Ask of Me and I will give…” (Tehillim, 2: 8-9). This is the day for us to ask of Hashem, to lift our voices in prayer, to daven with sincerity and passion. This is the day to give charity, to do mitzvos. This is the day to review the past year. Did we use our G-d-given talents properly? Did we share our gifts and talents with others? Did we extend ourselves to include others in our lives? What did we accomplish this past year? Each birthday hopefully marks the conclusion of a year of great accomplishment while simultaneously marking the anticipation of another year of monumental growth and development. Birthdays provide the momentum to get us going! Several years ago, I read of a beautiful initiative. It had been suggested that our birthdays are prime times to acknowledge those who have been

helpful to us along our life’s journey – our teachers, our mentors, our friends, family members…whoever has had an impact on us and propelled us further along our way. Some actually create a goal, hoping to connect to 40 such individuals – 50, 60, the sky’s the limit! I do recall receiving several beautiful messages of thanks over the years, totally unexpected, and I assumed that these women were celebrating their birthdays and following up on this initiative. How fitting. On a so called “major birthday,” I have asked close friends to share with me, in writing, birthday blessings. This was very meaningful at the time. I’m still hoping to find that treasure trove of papers. I need all the blessings I can get! There was one year that I arranged to travel into Brooklyn and met up with several close friends for a communal celebration, as we were all feeling very blessed to be here in this world for another year. We shared tips and advice on living our lives in an optimal fashion

and spent a glorious afternoon together acknowledging the myriads of blessings in our everyday lives. Some make a point of bestowing blessings upon family members and friends. It’s a wonderful opportunity to connect with loved ones and reaffirm the crucial role they play in our lives. It’s the opportune time to strengthen those bonds further. As we plead with Hashem to grant us another year in this world, in good health, together with our loved ones, we ought to take the opportunity to reflect on the past whilst committing ourselves to Torah and mitzvos, anticipating spiritual growth in the coming year. “L’chayim tovim u’l’shalom” is the common blessing exchanged at joyous occasions. It’s interesting to note that “chaim,” as a noun, is always written in the plural. Reb Esther Baila Schwartz provides the rationale behind this. While living in this world, we are simultaneously creating the building blocks for our existence in the World to Come. We are living a multiplicity of lives; here and now, whilst providing provisions for the Olam Haemes. Sobering thoughts, but that’s the reality. U’vacharta b’chaim. We must live life mindfully. (Orchos Chaim of the Rosh) We’re living in challenging times. Life itself is the ultimate gift. How grateful we must be. Wishing all acheinu kol bais Yisrael chaim tovim u’l’shalom! May we each, on an individual level, merit to experience inner peace and tranquility, and may Klal Yisrael and Eretz Yisrael be blessed with the ultimate peace and serenity – “lo yisa goy el goy cherev, v’lo yilmidu od milchama” – along with many more happy birthdays!

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

FEBRUARY 15, 2024 | The Jewish Home

Happy Birthday

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Thought

Toss or Keep? By Barbara Deutsch

n order to apply for aliyah, you have to determine how much grit, forbearance and patience you have in your social and emotional toolbox. For most of this generation, having Nefesh B’Nefesh as a partner is a gift that keeps on giving. The planning has to start with an overwhelming desire to make the land your home and the people your family. You have to be willing to throw out any superfluous material baggage: almost all your clothes, shoes, boots (so hard for me) and furniture. All the shoes you had to have that were almost comfortable in the store but now cripple, no multiple sweaters in every weight and color, no Great-Grandma’s antique table, hutch for the family China or big overstuffed sofa. No, not even her beautiful loveseat. Sentiment has no room in the small, even by Israeli standards, luxurious, apartment. An anomaly of all Israeli apartments is the absence of a closet or even any covered storage space; not for hanging or for drawers or shelves. There is simply no room for even one extra thing. When our dear friends, Naomi and Vel, followed their oldest daughter Yael, then their son Jamen, now called Yehudah, followed by their baby Orly to Israel (there was no longer any real reason to stay in the United States), they left all possessions behind. They sold their big Brooklyn house and everything in it, coming to Israel with simple necessities. When we first visited them in their brand-new place in Katamon, they took us on a tour of the rooms and the finishings. We marveled as they pressed secret buttons and opened hidden drawers; every piece served a dual purpose, and every potential for storage in each and every bed, table or chair revealed a secret storage place. It was awesome. We felt like we were on a mystery tour. We have actually hired their daughter Yael, an efficiency expert on room design and storage, to design the space and create the storage for our new Jerusalem apartment. But no matter how many secret places and storage spaces we design and build for

the new place, our two bedroom space will never accomplish what we had as empty nesters storing away in our three bedroom – one a master with a walk-in closet the size of a small bedroom –plus ample storage room, basement, garage and an attic. Couple that with a person who has worn the same size, whether heavier or thinner, since college. Yes, I still have some oldies but goodies (paid a lot of money), gems hanging comfortably proudly between my newer Zara disposable pieces. How many pairs of shoes are enough? How many accessories can we pile onto my arms? A lot, too many? No! Ever since I was a little girl, I loved playing dress up. After 75 years of shopping, I have accumulated quite a number of things in my closets, drawers, shelves and storage bins. A saving grace for my girls and grand-girls, especially in Israel (in the States not so much) is that I am generous.

way? And the beautiful suede gloves that got buried under the tights; there are cold days in Israel. How can I leave any of these treasures behind? The photo albums, especially the massive 8x10 wedding album. Maybe I can stack the albums in a pile, put them under a glass shelf and use the structure as a nightstand? I remember when we were cleaning out our parents’ apartments. We plowed through the downsized belongings left in their apartments in Lawrence (my parents) and Miami (my husband’s). They only had new and shiny; they wanted to start afresh. We don’t feel that way. We like the old and comfortable, but moving across the world to Israel changed the rubric.

There are some things that are too hard to sell, give away, or throw out.

If they like and want any of my things, I am happy to gift it to them. Many times after a trip to family, searching fruitlessly through my closet for a particular favorite piece of clothing, my husband has to remind me that I left that item in Israel or Canada. I love when that happens. Cleaning out the house and deciding what goes or stays, well, that task is very hard for me especially when it is tied to a special memory or person: my mother and mother-in-law’s mink coat, a navy leather designer suit from Paris (it does NOT fit, but who cares), the dresses from our kid’s simchas – what’s the big deal if there is a big yellow stain on the white crepe wool? And what about the beautiful sweater with microscopic moth holes.? Who sees it any-

During their golden years, my in-laws enjoyed the full Miami social scene for more than 20 years. Sadly, soon after my parents moved to Lawrence, my dad was diagnosed with dementia, and the gold of their senior years soon tarnished. When my parents were able to put some savings together, they bought a new construction in Canarsie in southeast Brooklyn. To furnish it, they bought a gold couch and two gold and white club chairs. The first thing they did was to cover them in clear plastic. When it was time to move to Lawrence, the neighborhood no longer welcoming, they wanted to start from scratch. We rejected the couches as too ornate. When we took the plastic off the chair to see what it really looked like under the wrapping, right before our eyes, the fabric

disintegrated and shredded. The beautiful fabric was beautiful no more. We took the chair to an upholstery store on Ave U, furniture row, in Brooklyn. The craftsman examined every part of the chair with care. When he was done, he declared the 40-year-old wooden frame, tongue and groove connections tight, no glue, a specimen of chair perfection. We found a beautiful blue chintz for it and made it young and beautiful again. The now 60-year-old chairs – there are two – have adorned our living room ever since. When my mother came to visit when they were delivered, she marveled at their beauty and grace. “Where did you find these chairs? They are just beautiful!” “They are yours, Mom, yours!” No one in the family wants them or pretty much anything else. There is no room in the Israel apartment. As I write this, I’m rethinking that decision. We are shopping around for a lift, maybe? There are some things that are too hard to sell, give away, or throw out. Hostages are still being held captive, and chayalim are still not home for Shabbos. Why do I perseverate and make this big deal about a sweater or a chair? Where is my grit when I need it?

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

Meat Pizza with Pickled Onions By Naomi Nachman

I love a good, simple, semi-homemade recipe that you can dress up to become a gourmet dish. This one is perfect! I served this pizza for dinner one night last week, because I saw it at Gourmet Glatt and felt very inspired to try this meat pizza --- which I enjoyed dressing up with my own toppings (I added pickled onions on mine). It is great to keep this pizza on hand in the freezer for when guests or fa mily members show up, and you need a quick and delicious meal. I always try to have pickled onions in the fridge, as they are a great addition to salads, sandwiches and, yes, even meat pizza.

Ingredients

◦ 1 box Tuscanini meat pizza ◦ 1 bottle creamy garlic dressing or Caesar salad dressing ◦ Pickled onions Pickled Onions ◦ 2 large red onions, halved and thinly sliced ◦ 1 cup apple cider vinegar ◦ 3 tablespoons sugar

Preparation

Slice onions and place into a glass jar or glass bowl. Add the remaining ingredients to a small pot. Bring to a boil and cook for two

minutes. Make sure sugar is dissolved. Cool slightly. Pour liquid into the sliced onions and pickle for at least an hour. Onions can be kept in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. To assemble: Prepare pizza according to package directions. Once ready, scatter red onions over the meat and then drizzle with dressing.

◦ 1 teaspoon kosher salt

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

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Mind Y

ur Business

Balancing Business with Frumkeit

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.

ince 2015, Yitzchok Saftlas has been speaking with leading industry experts on the “Mind Your Business” show, sharing insightful business and mar-

keting strategies. In this article, we’re looking back at some of his discussions with major names across the Orthodox business spectrum

and compiling the best advice for navigating the business world while still holding true to your Jewish values.

Dedicate Time for Torah and Tefillah Marc Bodner, Executive Chairperson at L&R Distributors There’s no question that one of the greatest challenges in the business world is keeping ourselves grounded when things get hectic. That’s why Torah and tefillah are so important. Nothing keeps us more grounded than limud haTorah. Find a set time that you can dedicate to learning and a chavrusa to learn with. With so many Torah resources out there today, there is really no excuse to keep us from making the time. Regularly learning Torah will help you stay grounded, settle your mind, and provide a sense of stability. Similarly, we also have to make time for tefillah. Tefillah is a gift that we have where we can stop what we’re doing and talk to the Source that it all comes from. A part of that gift is the opportunity to give thanks. The first word that we use to give thanks, “modim,” actually means to admit. In order to give proper thanks, we first have to admit where it all comes from. There’s an incredible nuance to that, and we need to recognize what an unbelievable gift it is.

Remember, It’s All in G-d’s Hands Abe Breuer, CEO of John To Go What I’ve come to understand is

that success today doesn’t necessarily guarantee the same kind of success tomorrow. Even if you closed a deal and reaped significant profits on one day, it’s crucial to acknowledge that your success isn’t solely attributable to your own efforts. Chazal, our sages, teach us of the importance of recognizing that, ultimately, Hashem is the One orchestrating everything. The results, whether they be success or failure, are all in His hands. This understanding instills humility and reminds us of our dependence on a higher power. So, with every endeavor you take on, remember to stay humble and not feel entitled to the same success you’ve experienced in the past.

Embrace Who You Are Country Yossi, Singer and Radio Personality Hashem created us all with our own talents and potential to fill. If you’re going to succeed and be happy, you have to be yourself, the person that Hashem created you to be. Don’t let anybody try and mold you into something that you’re not. Everyone has their own G-d-given talents that they have to discover, nurture, and use to fulfill their potential. Now, this is easier said than done. To discover the talents that Hashem has blessed us with, we often first have to get past a few initial stages of failure and discomfort, but that doesn’t mean that you should stop at the first sign of failure. You haven’t truly failed until the

moment you decide not to get back up.

Find Your Boundaries

ter ability to earn money. When I asked Orthodox Jews what the biggest hit to their budget was, many of them said the cost of education. Now, they are mainly talking about elementary and high school education. But, there is also a real growing demand in the community for

“Tefillah is a gift that we have where we can stop what we’re doing and talk to the Source that it all comes from.”

those boundaries and finding a balance is what G-d intended for us.

Know Your Education Options Mark Trencher, Founder of Nishma Research I think there’s a growing realization that the cost of an Orthodox lifestyle is expensive, and we need to have a bet-

secular secondary education. For example, a Modern Orthodox kid might seek to go to a place like Columbia and take courses in history and philosophy. But in the other two-thirds of the Orthodox community, Chassidic and Yeshivish, there is a growing demand for programs that teach people skills to earn money. They might go to Yeshiva University or

Touro College to study medicine, law, accounting, computer programming, etc. These are two universities that cater to the Orthodox community. And there are also programs in the community that don’t require admission to a college, training institutes that might train somebody in computer programming or other technical skills.

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Ari Boiangiu, Owner of Blue Melody Group I think that getting the right balance between your work and everything else in your life is something that everyone struggles with. Running a business often feels like a 24-hour job. New issues are always popping up. Reaching the proper balance is all about finding where your boundaries are. It’s understood that if you go X number of days without a good night’s sleep, you won’t be able to function at your meeting the next morning, which in turn, will create even more problems. It’s a ripple effect. So, you need to know what those boundaries are. How much sleep do you need? How much food? How much exercise? As an Orthodox Jew navigating this delicate balance, it’s crucial to understand your boundaries. Remember that G-d has given us all our own talents and purposes, and so that balance will be different for everyone. As an artist and entrepreneur, the dichotomy between creating art and making a living is ever-present for me. It’s a constant bal-

ance of expressing oneself authentically while also meeting the demands of the market. But, no matter what field you’re in, I think we all struggle with finding the perfect balance between business and something else in our lives. I believe that the ongoing process of discovering

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Notable Quotes “Say What?!”

I would say it’s criminal neglect for Mitch McConnell, Chuck Schumer, and Joe Biden to get together to send $100 billion overseas to fix someone else’s border before we fix our border. We have an emergency. - Sen. Rand Paul (R-KY)

Look, we were attacked in the worst attack on Jewish people since the Holocaust. The October 7 massacre was equivalent to 29 9/11s in one day and the equivalent of 50,000 Americans slaughtered … and 10,000 Americans taken hostage, including mothers and children. So, what would America’s response be? I would say it would be at least as strong as Israel’s and many Americans tell me, “We would have flattened them. We would have turned them into dust.” - Prime Minister Netanyahu on Fox News

UNRWA is a humanitarian organization without military or security expertise, making it incapable of conducting military inspections beneath its premises. - UNRWA’s Commissioner-General Philippe Lazzarini at a press conference, denying knowing that Hamas had a massive nerve center under UNRWA’s headquarters

King Charles has more important things to worry about — like his health — than the bruised feelings of his errant runaway son, and … William would rather shoot himself than be in the same room as someone he now views as a despicable traitor. - Pierce Morgan, writing in the New York Post about Harry’s brief visit with his ailing father

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Every time you see a TurboTax ad, remember: they’ve spent millions of dollars lobbying to make the tax-filing process as difficult and time-consuming as possible. All to protect their bottom line. But now the IRS is testing out a truly free Direct File option. - Tweet by Sen. Elizabeth Warren before the Super Bowl

Give me a break. Don’t pretend you’re the firefighter when in fact you’re the arsonist. Our convoluted tax code was created by senators and representatives like you who want to do social engineering in the tax code. – Response by Rep. Thomas Massie (R-KY)

MK Galit Distal Atbarian’s passionate address about Judaism during a Knesset committee hearing on education this week:

The education system robbed me of my identity. And what is happening now is a thousand times worse. If I came out after 12 years of study completely ignorant of who I am, where I came from, and why I’m here at all, today the situation is a thousand times worse. I read the data according to which the vast majority of teachers in Israel claim that there is not enough study or Jewish identity in schools. And the vast majority of parents in Israel claim the same thing. I say with deep pain, I only learned at a late age that Judaism is dynamic. In South Korea, they introduced the study of the Talmud, the Talmud is a gym for logic. Why was it denied to me? Why didn’t I know until I was older that Judaism tells me that we are not physical beings who undergo a spiritual experience, but spiritual beings who are currently going through a physical experience here? There is philosophy in it. There is spirituality in it. There is science in it… We have the roots pulled out from under our feet, sitting here and telling me that the study of Judaism is what? Israeliness and Judaism together? Israeli Hebrew cinema? Compared to the Malbim, the Ramchal, the Holy Ari HaKadosh!

Do you know what worlds there are? I graduated from seven years of philosophy. I was so thirsty for knowledge, after 12 years of barren studies, that I went to university and studied for 7 years. Philosophy of all shades— absolutely nothing. Dust, compared to the diamond we sit on and bury! And our children do not know what it is to be Jewish; they have no idea. I am studying today, and I say, if only I had known this at a younger age. It’s resilience; it’s identity; it’s roots; it’s the strength to fight. I see our soldiers today with Torah books, secular. With the kippahs and tefillin, secular. I see it, and I see how their soul thirsts for it, how much they yearn for it, I want to say that Israel needs to make a new start from the education system. Judaism is not what the Hartman Institute wraps it up with, Judaism is not the other, it is me. [It is not] the progressive approach to the Mishnah and the Bible. I want to say that Israel needs to reboot the education system. Judaism is not the other is me or the progressive approach to the Mishnah and the Bible. Judaism is an eternal truth. We are sitting on an eternal truth, and we are sitting on a diamond, and the time has come for us to access this diamond, this spirituality that has humanity in it, that has the basis of universal morality. Israelis are growing up here who think that their identity is that they like pizza. We sit on eternal truth; we sit on a diamond. And the time has come for us to access this diamond, this knowledge, this spirituality.

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[Psalm 23] is what I start off with actually every single day. I just read off Psalm 23 to myself before I start off with some solitude and then go about my day. - 49ers quarterback Brock Purdy, when asked by a reporter about his faith

It’s not, “G-d can we win here, can we do that?” It’s more just to have that peace and steadfastness in all the chaos. – Ibid., talking about how he prays during games

[The Super Bowl] was over four hours long. Fans were like, “Who directed this, Martin Scorsese?” — Jimmy Fallon

Mr. Prime Minister, instead of sending the head of the Shin Bet Ronen Bar to Cairo for talks with the Nazi enemy, he should continue to be sent to Rafah together with his men and the IDF soldiers to destroy, kill and destroy the heads of the murderers and all the Nazi Hamas terrorists, like last night. Instead of sending the head of the Mossad to Qatar, he should be sent to eliminate the heads of Hamas all over the world. - Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich

Today, the Kremlin confirmed that Tucker Carlson has interviewed Vladimir Putin. You can tell the interview went over well, ‘cause Tucker is still alive. — Jimmy Fallon

A super PAC supporting independent presidential candidate Robert F. Kennedy Jr. aired a commercial last night during the Super Bowl. So did his opponent, Pfizer. — Seth Meyers

Am I still Vice President? - One of the questions that President Biden asked investigators in October, which convinced them that he has cognitive decline and should not hold trial for taking classified documents at the end of the Obama administration

As you know, initially, the president of Mexico, Sisi, did not want to open up the gate to allow humanitarian material to get in [to Gaza]. I talked to him. I convinced him to open the gate. - Pres. Biden confusing Egypt and Mexico at his press conference last week, called for the purpose of arguing that he does not have cognitive decline

PETA urges Chance Rides and all other carousel manufacturers to hit the brakes on old-fashioned animal-themed rides and embrace designs that engage children’s imagination and showcase human talent. - PETA President Ingrid Newkirk, as part of the organization’s push to cancel animal-themed carousel rides

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Political Crossfire

What a Russian and Ukrainian General Agree On: This Battlespace is Different By David Ignatius

s top Russian and Ukrainian generals assess the battlefield after nearly two brutal years of stalemated “positional” warfare, they draw the same lessons: Tanks, manned aircraft and traditional maneuver forces are sitting ducks, while advanced drones and digital battle-management systems can have a decisive impact. Russia has come to realize what Ukraine recognized more than a year ago: This is an “algorithm war,” one where digital intelligence and targeting systems have rewritten the rules of conflict. The “fog of war” experienced by commanders for centuries has cleared. In the newly transparent battlespace, movements by large units are instantly visible and vulnerable. This look into Russian and Ukrainian military assessments is possible thanks to commentaries published in the past two weeks by two veteran commanders, Gen. Yuri Baluyevsky, a former chief of the Russian general staff, and Gen. Valery Zaluzhny, head of the Ukrainian military. They appeared, respectively, in Army Standard, a Russian publication, and on the website of the Ukrainian defense ministry. The commentaries were flagged to me by Kevin Ryan, a retired Army brigadier general who served as U.S. defense attaché in Moscow and then taught at the Harvard Kennedy School’s Belfer Center. He translated the articles and circulated them this week among Russia specialists. Zaluzhny made similar comments about the importance of drones in an interview published in November in the Economist, but the Russian analysis is new and startling. “These two adversaries see many of the same lessons,” Ryan writes in an email summarizing the commentaries. The generals recognize that in the Ukraine bat-

tlespace, “no concentration of troops, large or small, can escape the ever-present reconnaissance by unmanned aerial systems and satellites,” he notes. The tactical revolution underway in Ukraine underlines why a congressional failure to approve continued U.S. military support for Kyiv would be so devastating. As Russia gains increasing mastery of digital warfare, Zaluzhny worries that Ukraine is hobbled by “exhaustion of our partners’ stocks of missiles and ammunition” and “the difficulty of our allies in determining the priorities of support.” Baluyevsky’s comments read like a wake-up call to his fellow Russian officers. He argues that the so-called special military operation in Ukraine has been “an unprecedented test of literally all components of military affairs and military construction.” His analysis came in the foreword for an anthology of essays about the war, which was then summarized in Army Standard by Russian journalist Sergey Valchenko. Baluyevsky echoes many Western commentators who have argued that defense has trumped offense in Ukraine. “Air de-

fense has won an unexpected triumph over military aviation,” which has “lost the ability to operate en masse over enemy territory” and even must fly “with caution over its own territory.” The tank “has become one of the main casualties of the combat experience of the last two years,” he explains, since it was “an easily detected and easily hit target” and “turned out to be very vulnerable to mines.” Similarly, “the impossibility of concentrating troops … forces us to conduct combat operations with small units and separate combat vehicles.” Baluyevsky has some scathing comments about the performance of Russian weapons. “The qualitative superiority of NATO artillery is evident,” he contends. Ukraine “has revealed a significant lag in Russian artillery and missile systems and requires their priority radical rearmament in the next few years.” The winners in this war are drones. “Unmanned aircraft have rapidly and unconditionally conquered the airspace,” Baluyevsky argues. Zaluzhny agrees that “unmanned systems, along with other new

types of weapons, are almost the only tool for getting out of” the stalemate of trench warfare. Zaluzhny bemoans Russia’s manpower advantage and Ukraine’s “inability … to improve the state of staffing of the Defense Forces without the use of unpopular measures,” such as a nationwide draft. His disagreement with President Volodymyr Zelensky about the need for such an all-out mobilization is one reason for recent tension between the two men – and Zelensky’s reported readiness to sack his commander. Ukraine, as I wrote after visiting Kyiv in October, is exhausted by war and slowly bleeding out. Zaluzhny implicitly recognizes this war fatigue in arguing for increased use of unmanned systems to “reduce the level of losses … reduce the degree of participation of traditional means of destruction … [and] limited involvement of heavy equipment.” The lesson for the United States, beyond the simple but urgent need to continue military assistance for Ukraine, is to focus that support on the high-tech weapons that matter. The weapons that have generated endless debate, such as tanks and F-16 fighters, are less important than drones, antiaircraft systems and electronic-warfare jammers. The best weapons today, agree the Russian and Ukrainian generals, might be small, cheap systems such as “first-person view,” or FPV drones that fly into targets like tiny suicide bombers and can be almost impossible to stop. The chilling fact is that these silent killers can be bought and used by almost any combatant, anywhere on Earth. It is, as the generals agree, a new day in warfare. (c) 2024, Washington Post Writers Groupv

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Political Crossfire

Forget About a Second Term. Is Biden Fit To Be President Right Now? By Marc A. Thiessen

pecial counsel Robert K. Hur, in a devastating 345-page report on his investigation into President Biden’s mishandling of classified documents, concludes that Biden “willfully retained and disclosed classified materials.” But that is not his report’s real bombshell. Far more damaging is the picture it paints, in explaining Hur’s decision not to prosecute, of Biden as suffering from “diminished faculties” and “significant limitations” on his memory. So much so, the report says, that jurors would be unlikely to convict Biden because they would find him “a sympathetic, well-meaning, elderly man with a poor memory.” Most of us can judge Biden’s mental fitness only by his many struggles in public appearances – most recently for-

getting the name “Hamas” while trying for about 30 painful seconds to articulate the state of hostage negotiations, referring to his recent meeting with a French president who died in 1996, and claiming to have discussed the Capitol riot with German Chancellor Helmut Kohl, who died nearly four years before it took place. We are left to wonder: If the president is this diminished in public, what is he like behind closed doors? Well, the special counsel office’s report draws back the curtain and shows us. Based on its review of dozens of hours of recorded conversations between Biden, his ghostwriter, Mark Zwonitzer, and “on our direct interactions with and observations of him” during interviews with Justice Depart-

ment lawyers, a deeply troubling picture emerges a man who at times seems incapable to conducting basic conversations. “Mr. Biden’s memory … appeared to have significant limitations,” Hur writes, “both at the time he spoke to Zwonitzer in 2017, as evidenced by their recorded conversations, and today, as evidenced by his recorded interview with our office.” The recorded conversations with the ghostwriter “are often painfully slow, with Mr. Biden struggling to remember events and straining at times to read and relay his own notebook entries.” “In his interview with our office, Mr. Biden’s memory was worse,” Hur continues. Biden “did not remember when he was vice president, forgetting on the first day of the interview when his term

ended (‘if it was 2013 – when did I stop being Vice President?’), and forgetting on the second day of the interview when his term began (‘in 2009, am I still Vice President?’). He did not remember, even within several years, when his son Beau died.” The report adds that Biden’s “memory appeared hazy when describing the Afghanistan debate that was once so important to him,” adding that “among other things, he mistakenly said he ‘had a real difference’ of opinion with General Karl Eikenberry, when, in fact, Eikenberry was an ally whom Mr. Biden cited approvingly in his Thanksgiving memo to President Obama.” Hur concludes that jurors would likely find “Mr. Biden’s apparent lapses and failures” in sharing classified in-

only to have those military leaders testify that they had in fact given him that advice. Did he lie, or did he simply not recall what they had told him? Which is worse? A few weeks ago, much of Washington was outraged by a defense secretary who failed to disclose a serious medical condition and undermined the military

He referred to President Abdel Fatah El-Sisi of Egypt as the “president of Mexico” and claimed the special counsel never said that he shared classified information when Hur’s report said he “disclosed classified materials.” In trying to rebut the report’s assertions, Biden pointed out that his five hours of interviews with the Justice De-

Biden “did not remember when he was vice president, forgetting on the first day of the interview when his term ended (‘if it was 2013 – when did I stop being Vice President?’)”

chain of command. Well, now we have reason to be concerned about the man at the top of that chain of command. Biden’s news conference Thursday, in which he angrily defended his mental acuity (“I’m well-meaning, and I’m an elderly man, and I know what the […] I’m doing”) only made things worse.

partment across two days came as he was “managing an international crisis.” The first of the interviews came one day after Hamas’s Oct. 7 terrorist attack on Israel – and the special counsel’s report said Biden displayed “diminished faculties and faulty memory.” Can Americans afford to have a president with dimin-

ished faculties managing an international crisis? The president’s closest aides protect him, and foreign leaders wouldn’t publicly reveal any concerns about their discussions with him, for fear of damaging relations with the United States. But the special counsel has shown us Biden behind the scenes. If the president is “struggling to remember events” during his “painfully slow” interactions with others, how can he effectively conduct diplomacy or make decisions on matters of peace and security? There are wars raging in Europe and the Middle East; U.S. forces are under attack in Iraq, Syria and the Red Sea; the risk of war in the Pacific is growing; and rising numbers of people on the FBI’s terrorist watch list are trying to slip into the United States by illegally crossing the southern border. And apparently the commander in chief dealing with these overlapping crises is a “well-meaning, elderly man with a poor memory.” We’re now beyond concern about whether Biden is fit to serve a second term; we should be concerned about whether he is fit to finish his first. (c) 2024, Washington Post Writers Group

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formation with his ghostwriter in 2017 “consistent with the diminished faculties and faulty memory he showed in Zwonitzer’s interview recordings and in our interview of him.” As a columnist without a medical degree, I am in no position to diagnose Biden, and neither are most Americans. But we see what we see – how his gait has stiffened and his ability to answer simple questions has declined. Which is why multiple polls show that 76 percent of American voters believe Biden is too old to effectively serve another term as president and 54 percent say he no longer has “the competence to carry out the job of president.” That was based on his public appearances. But the special counsel’s description of his private interactions raises these concerns to Defcon 1. If the president is this confused in his meetings with Justice Department lawyers, how bad are his interactions with world leaders or his meetings with his own national security officials in the Situation Room? During the disastrous U.S. withdrawal from Afghanistan in August 2021, Biden falsely claimed that none of his military advisers had recommended leaving a residual force of 2,500 troops,

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Israel Today

Insulting Israel is Old News at the State Dept by Rafael Medoff

he claim by Secretary of State Antony Blinken that Israel is “dehumanizing” the residents of Gaza is false and insulting. But it’s par for the course at Foggy Bottom. It may not be much consolation to the Israelis, but U.S. secretaries of state have been leveling unfair accusations against Israel, and sometimes against the Jewish people, for more than 75 years, regardless of whether Israel’s

government leaned left or right. In 1948, Secretary of State George Marshall vigorously opposed the creation of Israel, implemented the U.S. embargo on weapons to the Jewish forces, and urged President Harry Truman not to recognize the new state. Marshall also promoted a plan to drastically reduce the size of Israel by tearing away the Negev. President Dwight D. Eisenhower’s

Secretary of State James Baker with President George HW Bush

secretary of state, John Foster Dulles, testified to a Senate committee in 1953 that Israel should stop seeking arms and start putting its trust “in the United Nations.” He also criticized the Israelis for striking at Arab terrorists in Gaza. At another point in his testimony,

Secretary Dulles claimed that Israel’s fears of being destroyed were baseless. When asked if America’s strategic plans for the Mideast were adequate to prevent Israel’s annihilation, he replied that the U.S. could not “underwrite” such a promise. Dulles reiterated that the U.S.

the Iraqi nuclear reactor in 1981. In 2003, Colin Powell, secretary of state under President George W. Bush, publicly accused Israel of inflicting “daily humiliations” on the Palestinian Arabs. His successor, Condoleezza Rice, said the Palestinian Arab war against Israel was similar to the African-American civil rights movement. She also compared the Holocaust-denying Palestinian Authority chairman, Mahmoud Abbas, to the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Bill Clinton’s secretary of state, Madeleine Albright, was still chastising Israel long after she left office. Albright asserted on CNN in 2014 that Israel had lost all its “moral authority” because it was “overdoing it” by carrying out “disproportionate” strikes on terrorists in Gaza. (That was the same Albright who said on “Sixty Minutes” in 1996 that even if sanctions against Iraq caused the deaths of half a million Iraqi children, “We think the price is worth it.”) John Kerry, who served as secretary of state under Barack Obama, took his share of shots at Israel. In 2014, he publicly claimed that Israel was at risk of becoming “an apartheid state.” In 2016, he indulged in disturbing moral equivalence by listing “settlement expansion” alongside “violence, terrorism, [and] incitement” as the reasons for the absence of Mideast peace. Ironically, the unfriendly remarks made about Israel by various secretaries of state do not seem to have impressed Palestinian Arab leaders. The official PA newspapers Al-Hayat Al-Jadida and Al-Ayyam have referred to Kissinger as “Henry the Jew”; derided Albright as “vulgar,” “insolent,” and “a snake”; denounced Powell as “a neo-Nazi agent”; and labeled Rice “the black widow” and “the black raven,” among other insults. One wonders what epithets they have in store for Blinken. The lesson for Israel? Blinken’s insult about “Israel dehumanizing Gazans” is consistent with what we have come to expect from the State Department. Many secretaries of state seem to have believed that coldness to Israel is part of the job description. But Israel has outlasted them all.

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

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would not sell weapons to Israel, while defending the administration’s decision to send 18 tanks to Saudi Arabia. He also justified the U.S. surrender to the Saudi leaders’ demand that no Jewish soldiers be permitted to serve on American bases in Saudi Arabia. In a Mideast policy speech later that year, Secretary Dulles declared that Jerusalem should be ruled by “the world religious community,” instead of serving as Israel’s capital. He also challenged Israel’s identity, asserting that Israel “should become a part of the Near East community and cease to look upon itself…as alien to this community.” President Richard M. Nixon’s secretary of state, Henry Kissinger, had a disturbing agenda of his own. Kissinger advised Nixon in 1973 that the persecution of Soviet Jewry was “not an American concern,” even “if they put Jews into gas chambers in the Soviet Union.” When Prime Minister Yitzhak Rabin hesitated to make concessions that Egypt was demanding in 1975, Kissinger accused him of “bringing the world to the edge of war.” Kissinger also claimed that Rabin was “fomenting antisemitism,” and he denounced Rabin and other Israeli officials as “fools” and “common thugs.” According to Prof. Gil Troy’s book, Moynihan’s Moment, Kissinger once described Rabin with a vulgarity, a term similar to the obscenities that some U.S. officials reportedly have used concerning other Israeli leaders. Another secretary of state with a fondness for curse words—at least when Israel and Jews were the subject—was James Baker, who served under George H.W. Bush. When Housing Secretary Jack Kemp noted Jewish concerns about Baker’s pressure on Israel, the secretary of state infamously replied, “[Expletive] the Jews, they don’t vote for us anyway.” Kemp leaked the quote to former New York City Mayor Ed Koch, who publicized it in his syndicated column. Other Baker gems reported in the press included mocking pro-Israel members of Congress as “the little Knesset,” and remarking, “Jews remember the Holocaust, but they forget insults as soon as they smell cash.” The pattern of secretaries of state taking shots at Israel crosses party lines. Cyrus Vance, secretary of state in a Democratic administration, criticized Israel’s use of U.S. fighter planes to strike terrorists in Lebanon in 1979. Alexander Haig, secretary of state in a Republican administration, lambasted Israel for bombing

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Forgotten Her es

Honored Heroes By Avi Heiligman

Sidney Goldstein

istory books are full of heroes who made headlines for their contributions to their country. Generals, top-ranking officers, and politicians often get credit when rank and file members of the military did the hard work on the front lines. These soldiers often get credit among their peers with citations and medals but are rarely known to the public. There are some history books that make it a point to recognize these heroes, and here are some of those unsung heroes from World War II. Jewish First Lieutenant Walter Berlin from Baltimore was with the 36th Armored Infantry Regiment, 3rd Armored Division during its initial push into Germany before the Battle of the Bulge. The 3rd Armor Division, under Jewish General Maurice Rose, was nicknamed the Spearhead Division and had been one of the first to penetrate the Siegfried line. On December 12, 1944, Berlin’s unit was fighting against pillboxes that were pouring fire into the American lines. A week earlier, Berlin had been assigned as company commander of Company A after being transferred. He climbed on top of one the American tanks to direct its fire on the pillboxes. Berlin continued to direct the tanks to fire on enemy emplacements until the enemy stopped firing. For his bravery in action, he was awarded the Distinguished Service Cross. Berlin was also awarded the Silver Star, two Bronze

A tribute to Sidney Goldstein

Stars and two Purple Hearts for actions during World War II. During the Korean War, Berlin served as a battalion commander. There has been an effort in recent years to upgrade the medals of many decorated Jewish servicemen from World War II. Sergeant Raymond Groden from Brooklyn is one of those soldiers. He was serving Company C, 1st Battalion, 30th Infantry Regiment, 3rd Infantry Division in France on December 2, 1942. His company had run into a roadblock defended by three enemy machine guns. Groden charged at the German emplacement with his M1 rifle and killed three enemy soldiers. He killed another four Germans when he attacked their command post through a hail of enemy fire. Only his raincoat and other equipment were hit. Then he destroyed another machine gun and took control of four enemy mortars. There was no more enemy resistance then, as he also captured two German soldiers. Groden was awarded the Distinguished Service Cross for these exploits and in April 1945 was awarded a Silver Star for actions inside Germany. Forward observer Lieutenant Robert Fierman from New York was another Jewish soldier awarded the Distinguished Service Cross. His job with the 32nd Infantry Division was to direct artillery during the fight along the Villa Verde Trail on Luzon in the Philippines. On

The Distinguished Service Cross medal

March 21, 1945, he was in exposed position while the Japanese attacked his unit. Despite his buddies telling him to take cover, he remained where he was and was able to use his radio to direct artillery fire on the Japanese. After twenty-five minutes, a shell fragment hit Fierman, but he still stayed on the battlefield. He stayed there directing fire on the Japanese until his unit moved to another position. The Japanese suffered heavy casualties due to the artillery fire that Fierman called in and allowed his battalion to move to a better location. In mid-1944, the Germans and their Italian Axis partners held a defensive line in Italy called the Gothic Line. The British Eight Army and the American Fifth Army faced two German armies in a battle that would last until March 1945. Lieutenant Sid Goldstein was a platoon leader with Company A, 133rd Infantry Regiment, 34th Infantry Division that was attached to the Fifth Army. In September 1944, Goldstein’s platoon assaulted a hill that was defended by Axis troops. Goldstein and the 24 men he led were repelled by mortars, machine gun and small arms fire. He regrouped and led eleven men up the hill into a dugout. There, they captured four German soldiers and continued up a hill. Then, with two non-commissioned officers, he attacked another dugout, capturing three more Germans. One of the Germans was an officer who

told Goldstein that he would surrender the rest of the German force, but only if Goldstein would come with him to the forward slope. This was a dangerous proposition as Goldstein could be walking into an ambush, but Goldstein, fully knowing the danger, went along with the enemy officer. Once at the slope, about forty German enlisted men and two officers surrendered. The German officer then led Goldstein to another position where sixteen more soldiers surrendered. Altogether, Goldstein captured 67 Germans and was personally awarded the Distinguished Service Cross by General George Marshall. Many servicemen during World War II were noted for exceptional service, and even though their stories didn’t always make headline news, it is heroism that deserves to be remembered. There are many more stories of heroic Jewish servicemembers just like ones we have covered in this and past articles. While it is not possible to write about them all, Forgotten Heroes will continue to write about more honored heroes in the future.

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

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

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. A must see! Close To All Houses of Worship Mark Lipner Associate Broker Berkshire Hathaway Laffey International 516-298-8457 mlipner@bhhslaffey.com

CAN’T AFFORD YOUR PROPERTY TAXES? MORTGAGE? Must sell for any reason? Call for FREE Consultation. Call now 212-470-3856 Cash buyers available!

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 WOODMERE New to the market renovated 3 bedroom 2 full bathroom ranch home with a full finished basement in the heart of Woodmere, sd#15, on a lot size 90x118, gas heat, central air conditioning, garage, new windows, roof, siding, appliances, lighting, kitchen and bathrooms. Eat in kitchen with 2 sinks, 2 dishwashers, double oven, island, lots of cabinets and storage. Spacious renovated basement with lots of storage, washer dryer and utilities, minutes to the railroad, shopping and houses of worship. Open house Sunday February 18 11:001:00pm 401 Howard Avenue Mark Lipner Associate Broker Berkshire Hathaway Laffey International 516298-8457 mlipner@bhhslaffey.com

LAWRENCE New to the market 5 bedroom 3.5 bathrooms prime location with a lot size 77x130 features an eat-inkitchen, formal dining room , main floor den , formal living room with vaulted ceilings, finished basement, 2 car garage, gas heat, central air conditioning, in ground sprinkler, alarm call for more details. 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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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

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 516-298-8457 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

WOODMERE 1st showing spacious bright and sunny 5 bedroom 3 full bathrooms in school district 15. Features an expanded gourmet kitchen with stainless steel appliances, 2 sinks, double oven, warming drawer, great counter space, central air conditioning, gas heat, 2 of the bathrooms are new, hardwood floors, recessed lighting, in ground sprinkler, gas line for the barbeque, 2 car garage and minutes to all. OPEN HOUSE SUNDAY FEBRUARY 18 1:30-3:30PM 839 LOWELL STREET Mark Lipner Associate Broker Berkshire Hathaway Laffey International 516-2988457 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 359A Central Av Lawrence 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

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. $130K Mark Lipner Associate Broker Berkshire Hathaway Laffey International 516-298-8457 mlipner@bhhslaffey.com

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 WOODMERE LAWRENCE WOODMERE WOODMERE LAWRENCE

WOODMERE CEDARHURST CEDARHURST WOODMERE CEDARHURST CEDARHURST

Quality Construction!!! Quality NewNew Construction!!!

Spacious Wide Line Expanded Ranch onon Most Prestigious andand Stucco Col. 2 Story Entry ft Bths, Ceilings, ZoneHeat Heat which Spacious Wide Line Expanded Ranch Most Prestigious Stucco withwith 2 Story Entry 9 ft9 3 Ceilings, 1414Zone which New ToCol. Mkt. Charming Colonial onHardwood Beautiful Tree Brick C/H Colonial 4+ BR, floors, Spacious Split Level Home InInPrestigious Academy Spacious Split Level Home Prestigious Academy Serene Cul-de-Sac , Main FlrFlr Master Bdrm includes Radiant Heat, Anderson Windows withLots LotsofofNatural Natural Serene Cul-de-SacininVillage VillageofofLawrence Lawrence , Main Master Bdrm includes Radiant Heat, Anderson Windows with FLR FDR, Finished Basement, in quiet Tree 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 223Exclusive Hickox Avenue OPEN HOUSE 12:30-1:30 1068 highland Suite with with Many Closets and Addional Main FlrFlr Bdrm &Den Bath, Area. Lg EIK, w/2 sinks, FLR/FDR, Attic, Lower lvl OPEN HOUSE 3:00-4:30 223 Hickox Avenue Light Throughout, Flr Fdnr, Magnificent Chefs Eik with High End OPEN HOUSE 12:30-1:30 1068 highland Suite Many Closets andBthrm, Bthrm, Addional Main Bdrm & Bath, Light Throughout, Flr Fdnr, Magnificent Chefs Eik with High End 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, lined area. $1.599 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 Burner Cooktop with Pot Filler, Bdrms. Prime location! Basment Property BeautifulBeautiful 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.

INWOOD WOODSBURGH WOODSBURGH CEDARHURST

CEDARHURST N. WOODMERE

$999K

LAWRENCE RENTAL CO-OPS/CONDOS CO-OPS/CONDOS WOODMERE CO-OP WOODMERE CO-OP 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, Charming 4 bdrm cape in prestigious country sits on 1/2 acre property in a. most serene setting, with beautiful This club spacious s/hopen col , in the prestigious village of area, concept, fir, fdnr, fullwoodsburgh, height waterviews, and magnificent sunsets . Flr eik, banquet fdnr , sitsCOMMERCIAL on 1/2 acre property in a. most9serene setting, with beautiful RENTAL! Dr officesuite Suite, Located breakfast rm, main level NEW! den /fpl ,Room master bdrm with his basement, beautiful oversized property with above waterviews, and magnificent sunsets . Flr banquet fdnr , New! Renovated High Ranch, 4BRs, 2 Bths, New inand theher Heart of Cedarhurst, Spacious waiting room, Reception closets and bth + 4 bdrms , new bths, newly renovated COMMERCIAL RENTAL! NEW! 9 Room Dr office Suite, Located ground pool; fish den pond and greenhouse, low taxes breakfast rm, main level /fpl , master bdrm suite with his Area and Exam Rooms, all on Main Floor. Close to Public finished basement with laundry rm, playrm, lots of storage, Kitchen & of Bths,3 ZoneSpacious Heatingwaiting & CAC, Den FLR, inand the Heart Cedarhurst, room, Reception endless potential! $995K Transportation her closets and bth thruout +location!!! 4 bdrms , new bths, newly renovated many special details $1.9M+ Area and Exam alllaundry on Main Floor. Close to of Public FDR, SD# 14Rooms, $6,000 finished basement with rm, playrm, lots storage, Transportation many special details thruout $1.9M+ $1.279M $6,000

156 B 9th St Mint 2BR, 2 BTH FAR ROCKAWAY

Beachfront Condo 156 B 9th Stsplanch Mint 2BR, Beautiful on2 aBTH quiet cul-de-sac in village of with Wraparound Terrace, Magnificent Beachfront Condo Lawrence. 4 Bedrooms 3 full baths, Spacious den Sunrise & Sunset with Wraparound Terrace, Magnificent $589K with sliding doorsApt overlooking property. 29 Woodmere Mint, Corner 1 Bdrm & Sunset 5Sunrise Br Home inBlvd Heart2B of Renovated, Far Rockaway, 3Bth, EIK, FDR, with 9ft Ceilings. Spacious Eat In Kitchen, 2 Sinks, Granite $589K 29 Woodmere Blvd 2B Renovated, Mint, Corner 1 Bdrm Den, Foyer, Walk in Closets 130’Lvgrm/Dnr Deep Property. Counter tops 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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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

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

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 516-298-8457 mlipner@ bhhslaffey.com

WOODMERE Totally renovated bright and sunny 1 bedroom corner unit apartment with a washer/dryer. Features quartz countertops, ss appliances, recessed lighting, bathroom with chrome fixtures, close to the railroads, shopping and houses of worship. Call for details Mark Lipner Associate Broker Berkshire Hathaway Laffey International 516-298-8457 mlipner@bhhslaffey.com

LAWRENCE 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

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

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

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

Deadline Monday 5:00pm

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Classifieds

classifieds@fivetownsjewishhome.com • text 443-929-4003

APT./COOP/CONDO SALE

5TOWNS-OFFICESFORLEASE

HELP WANTED

LAWRENCE

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

1500SF LOFT OFFICE (formerly Shmuel Flaum Architect) 2 store/offices; ~600sf each 2 Cedarhurst offices; ~100sf each Starting at $650 Also… Large Parking Lot & Storage available Utilities, Internet & Parking incl. with some Kosher kitchen – Minyan Next to LIRR - No broker fee Call/text/Whatsapp: 516-206-1100

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

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 New to the market Jr. 4 apartment in an elevator building with a terrace and underground parking, laundry on premises. Kitchen with granite countertops, 2 sinks, ss appliances, spacious step down living room with high ceilings, guest room/ office, spacious primary bedroom with 3 closets, full bathroom with full vanity, medicine cabinet, toilet and lighting, custom blinds, near the railroad, shopping and houses of worship.$289K Mark Lipner Associate Broker Berkshire Hathaway Laffey International 516-298-8457 mlipner@bhhslaffey.com

FOR RENT 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

HELP WANTED SHEVACH HS Has an opening to teach 10th grade Global Regents. 3 classes/day, M-Th, 1:07-4:12 pm, to start immediately. Salary competitive. Email resume to mshepard@shevachhs.org. BOOKKEEPER Excellent growth potential, Frum environment, Excellent salary & benefits. Email resume to: resumetfs1@gmail.com

YESHIVA DARCHEI TORAH Middle School is seeking to hire ELA teachers for the Fall. We offer an excellent working environment and salary; Monday-Thursday, 2:305:30 PM. Interviews are being held now. Candidates should have prior teaching experience. Please send resume to mhorowitz@darchei.org GROWING BACK OFFICE ACCOUNTING Firm in the Five Towns Looking to hire staff to join the accounts payable team Please send resumes to jobs@riveredgeadvisors.com or call 516-548-1622 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. ACCOUNTANT F/T Beitel Group is seeking to hire F/T Staff Accountant. Min 2 years’ experience required. Competitive pay, benefits, and growth potential. Please email resume to jobs@beitel.com

Classifieds

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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

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

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

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

MISC.

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

WEALTH MANAGEMENT OFFICE in Cedarhurst looking for an in-office assistant for 18-20 hours a week. Ideal candidate will be proactive, detail oriented, positive, and a team player. Must have familiarity with or willingness to learn about financial markets, financial planning, and account types. Email résumé to wmassistantjob@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

JOIN OUR TEAM & MAKE A DIFFERENCE

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! GOING TO FLORIDA FOR PESACH? Get your favorite wine and spirits delivered for free for all orders over $400 vintagekosher.com/pesach 646-768-8800

5 Towns High School Looking for PART-TIME SECRETARY SUNDAY: 9:00-1:00 MONDAY - THURSDAY: 1:00-6:00

Excellent Pay REQUIREMENTS AND SKILLS: Outstanding communication, interpersonal, and organizational skills. Exceptional knowledge of MS Office, Google Workspace, and other basic programs. Please send resume to 5thighschoolsecretary@gmail.com

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The Jewish Home | FEBRUARY 15, 2024

Your

Money

Open Secrets By Allan Rolnick, CPA

ast fall, a former IRS contractor named Charles Littlejohn copped a plea to one count of unauthorized disclosure of tax return information. Specifically, Littlejohn leaked Donald Trump’s tax returns to The New York Times in an explicit attempt to sway the 2020 election. Last week, US District Court Ana Reyes sentenced him to five years in the pokey for his offense. Littlejohn didn’t stop with Trump. He also leaked returns from thousands of ultrahigh earners like Amazon CEO Jeff Bezos, which the independent newsroom ProPublica used for a series of stories showing how some of them manage to pay less tax than the slacker who delivers your pizza. Senator Rick Scott (R-Country Club), a former healthcare executive who saw his own data leaked, attended Littlejohn’s sentencing, where he asked the judge to throw the book at him. Littlejohn’s lawyers told the judge that he leaked Trump‘s returns out of a “deep, moral belief” that the American public had the right to see them. They also told her that he regrets that decision, which isn’t uncommon when a prosecutor shows up and says, “I am the captain now.” A century ago, Congress thought publicizing tax bills would help fight cheat-

ing. “Secrecy is of the greatest aid to corruption,” said Nebraska Senator Robert Howell. And so, for 1923 and 1924, tax payments were public records. Newspapers raced to report exactly how much various robber barons paid, including John D. Rockefeller (over $7 million in 1923), J.P. Morgan ($98,643.47), and Charles Schwab ($29,494.38). Not everyone liked sharing quite that much in-

one’s tax data to the press? Look to Finland and learn. Every year on November 1 – “Jealousy Day” – the government actually publishes it, with reporters lining up in near-Arctic cold outside the Tax Administration’s office for the 8AM “grand reveal.” Ilkka Paananen, CEO of video game developer Supercell, took first place in 2022, with €58.7 million in earnings and €21.7 million in tax.

What would it be like to blast everyone’s tax data to the press?

formation, though, and when President Coolidge took office, he shut it down on the argument that publicizing taxpayers’ addresses made them more vulnerable to scammers. Today, of course, the scammers already have your address, along with your social security number, your mother’s maiden name, the city where you were born, and the name of your favorite pet. What would it be like to blast every-

Ilkka Teppo, CEO of Supercell competitor Reworks, placed second with €46.3 million in earnings and €15.7 million in tax. Disclosure fans argue it helps avoid inequality and “gaming” the system, which seems ironic in a country where a couple of video game kingpins are the highest-paid members of society. You could certainly argue that our rules should be the same. Property tax assessments and payment records are

public. Paying income tax to the government is pretty much the definition of a public act. But that’s not how we’ve decided to handle it here. It has nothing to do with how you feel about Trump as a president or how you feel about Bezos and his fellow billionaires as citizens. At this time in the U.S., income tax records are confidential, and the IRS needs to do whatever it takes to keep them that way. The whole story is even more ironic considering the Service’s curious relationship with technology. On one hand, they want you to do as much of your tax compliance as possible online, including filing your return and tracking down your refund. On the other hand, they’ll warn you that if you get an email purporting to be from them, it’s probably a scam. We do everything the law requires to keep your private information private. It’s frustrating to see those efforts wasted at the Service level. Does it help to know that at least you’re paying less with us?

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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T-Time By Rivki D. Rosenwald Esq., LMFT, CLC, SDS

ragedy is something heartbreaking. Travesty is something beyond

that. Terrible is something you can’t even begin to describe. Tears are one form of reaction to these situations. Temper is another. Talk, tell, teach, and try are other ways to respond. Triumph is what you hope you will ultimately do. Tranquility is the state you long to arrive at. True success is to process and treat the

teers and volunteer opportunities. You do not necessarily see it unless you make sure to access and visit places. And some things are not viewable at all. But there are terribly defaced and destroyed properties. There are displaced and confounded people. There are the emotionally and physically wounded. There are those who are away fighting, those in captivity, and those we can see no more. Yes, this is a country with intense feelings, ailing, but never defeated. Whether living in Israel or anywhere

safer tomorrow. Tragedy, travesty, terrible, tears, and temper are not the words we want describing our lives. We want to be infused with Adar emotions. Adar – the month the Talmud tells

us that we can access even greater joy than usual. We want to describe our lives with words such as, tender, terrific, thankful, trusting, thorough, thriving, thrilling, thoughtful, and transcending. Good T times.

Yes, this is a country with intense feelings, ailing, but never defeated.

trauma – and emerge truly transformed… somehow, trusting that there was some sense to the craziness so that you may move forward with some strength and meaning. To be in Israel during these post-attack days is to only sense a ripple of the torrent that befell our people and our homeland. There are signs. There are conversations. There are fighters. There are volun-

in the world, we are still a unit. Even while our practices differ, we are still a family. And as a family, we must always support one another and make certain our home remains intact. We cannot turn back the clock, much as we wish we could. We can only cloak ourselves in the necessary emotional and physical attitudes and measures to build a better, stronger,

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

��% OFF REGULAR INVISALIGN FEE FOR ANYONE IN THE MIDDLE OF SMILE DIRECT TREATMENT

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