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Call for directions: (718) 998-7382
• Assisting the homebound in learning Torah
• Assisting hospital patients
• Business counseling
• Chinese auction
• Companionship
• Computer training to help clients qualify for jobs
• Cooking meals in emergency situations
• Delivering and/or packing food and/or clothing
• Delivering to homebound and elderly of flowers, etc.
• Driving injured or elderly on errands
• Helping the blind and handicapped
• Helping the needy pass time by reading to them, playing games with them (backgammon, chess, checkers, cards, etc.)
• Home repair
• Home placement services
• Homework helper
• Other services for needy clients
• Participating in minyanim in houses of mourning
• Assisting bar mitzvah boys
• Referring clients to stimulate ones business
• Referring to another organization for further help
• Assisting in putting on Tefilin
• Special activities for senior citizens
• Special activities for widows and widowers
• Special activities for Holocaust survivors
• Special programs and the provision of recreational trips, electronics and toys to children suffering from disabilities and health issues
• Transport of goods that are being provided as financial assistance
• Transportation and assistance
• Visiting hospitals
• Visiting people in their homes
• Visiting senior citizen homes
• Visiting and assisting holocaust survivors
• Loaning wheelchairs
Laura Shammah MS, RDN
VOLUME 34 ISSUE 6 NOVEMBER 2024 HESHVAN 5785
Ben-Gurion Matsas
Rachelle Matsas
Steven Matsas
Jack Matsas
PUBLISHER/EDITOR
EDITOR-IN-CHIEF
MANAGING EDITOR DIRECTOR OF SALES
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Mr. Jack Avital • Mr. Ari Baum • Mr. Norman Balassiano • Mrs. Joyce Chabbott • Mrs. Alice Chera
Mr. Elliot Chrem • Mrs. Mary Anne Cohen • Mr. Barry Cohen • Mrs. Francine Dweck • Ms. Stephanie Franco
Mrs. Sophia Franco • Mrs. Natalie Senior Greenberg • Mr. Charles S. Haddad • Mrs. Sylvia Hamowy
Mrs. Melanie Kishk • Rabbi David Laine • Mr. Norman D. Levy • Mr. Brian Marcus • Rabbi Ezra Max
Mrs. Sarina Roffé • Mrs. Kelly Sabbagh • Mrs. Laura Shammah • Mrs. Randi Shomer • Dr. Charles Suede • Dr. Eddie Sutton • Dr. David Tawil • Mr. Freddy Zalta
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Morris Antebi • Morris Gindi • Mark Greenberg • Benny Hayon • Michele Shrem
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From The Editors
As we turn the clocks back this month and enter the cooler days of fall, we find ourselves reflecting on the completion of the High Holidays and the powerful sense of renewal they bring. In this issue, we explore themes of resilience, unity, and gratitude that have touched our community in many ways.
This November marks the 50th anniversary of SBH, one of our community’s most impactful organizations. From its beginnings in a small living room to becoming an essential support system for countless families, SBH’s journey is a story of dedication, compassion, and commitment to the welfare of our community. We are honored to feature SBH’s legacy in this issue and invite you to join in their celebration.
We also commemorate a somber anniversary on October 7th, when our community stood united in remembrance of those lost. Our local schools and organizations came together in solidarity with Israel, holding heartfelt events to honor those who were impacted. Our photo album captures these meaningful moments, showing the strength and hope that bind us together as one.
Additionally, we share the inspiring story of the Shamosh family, who risked everything to help Jewish refugees escape from Syria through Turkey. Their courage and determination helped over 3,500 individuals find safety and freedom, and their story continues to inspire acts of kindness and bravery within our own community today.
Finally, in our fast-paced digital age, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed by the constant stream of information. Rabbi Sacks ZT”L beautifully reminds us of the power of Shabbat as a sanctuary from this overload. In his words, Shabbat serves as a precious reminder to reconnect with family, friends, and faith, offering a respite from the demands of modern life.
As the leaves change and the air turns crisp, we hope this issue brings you stories of resilience, tradition, and the warmth of community. May you find moments to reflect, reconnect, and enjoy the beauty of this season.
Ben-Gurion Matsas and Rachelle Fallas Matsas
AMERICAN JEWS, IS THE HONEYMOON OVER?
DR. HENRY ABRAMSON
AFTER OCT. 7, THINGS HAVE CHANGED DRAMATICALLY FOR THE SEVEN MILLION JEWS WHO CALL THE UNITED STATES THEIR HOME. WITH OVER 3500 YEARS OF CONTINUOUS EXISTENCE AS A PEOPLE, IT’S HARD TO POINT TO ANY SPECIFIC MOMENT IN JEWISH HISTORY AND SAY, “THIS IS UNIQUE:” AS THE BIBLICAL IDIOM HAS IT, “NOTHING IS NEW UNDER THE SUN.” YET WITH THE ANNIVERSARY OF THE HORRIFIC ATTACK BY HAMAS ON SOUTHERN ISRAEL JUST PASSING, THINGS HAVE CHANGED DRAMATICALLY FOR THE SEVEN MILLION JEWS WHO CALL THE UNITED STATES THEIR HOME.
American Jews, especially those who to migrated to these shores after the pogroms in late nineteenthcentury Russian Empire, frequently voiced the notion that the United States was “The Golden Land,” with democratic values that relegated the medieval antipathy to Jews firmly in the distant past. Jews reciprocated to the newfound freedoms by contributing to American society on a scale vastly disproportionate to their tiny percentage of the population, which barely broke two percent. Access to higher education, freedom from antisemitic restrictions in business, and a general environment of democratic opportunity allowed Jews to give back to society by developing science (over 100 Nobel laureates), culture (Paramount Pictures, Universal Pictures, Columbia Pictures), and the economy (Google, Facebook, Starbucks, just to name a few).
Jews loved America, and for the most part the appreciation was mutual. This was especially true for the second half of the twentieth century, when the Greatest Generation liberated the Nazi Death camps. The apple-cheeked young soldiers from Idaho, who may never have met a single Jew
in their lives, suddenly came face-to-face with the darkest implications of Jew-hatred.
Hearts expanding with compassion and sympathy, the post-war generation entered into a profound period of philosemitism (positive attitude or respect toward Jewish people), as average Americans saw Jewish history the way most Jews understand it: a long existential struggle for survival in hostile environments, culminating in the event that literally gave the world the word “genocide,” coined by a Polish-American Jew named Raphael Lemkin, seeking a way to describe an act of such heinous enormity that no existing vocabulary could contain it. When the bedraggled survivors of the Holocaust joined with the older Jewish community to establish the State of Israel in 1948, successfully defending the old-new land against an invasion of five Arab armies, Americans cheered.
Sadly, that honeymoon era seems to be ending. Recent polling indicates a profound split between younger and older Americans: while less than 10% those over 55 support Hamas in its conflict with Israel, fully 41% of Americans aged 18-24 identify, amazingly, with the terrorist organiza-
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tion. We certainly see the reflection of this generation gap on many college campuses, where it is no longer unfashionable to voice vulgar Jew-hatred in public. Israel, as a modern nation-state, is not exempt from criticism, and in fact dissent from its policies and politicians is a lively part of the vigorous Israeli democracy. The selective outrage of these young critics, however, and the glaring double standard applied to America’s ally is often indicative of an undercurrent of simple antisemitism.
So wither American Jewry, as the cultural mood of the youth of this country, once so welcoming to the Jewish people, seems to be heading in a darker direction? Jews of the United States can look to the past for historical precedents, many of which may yield new strategies to survive the current challenges. The Crusades ravaged the Ashkenazic heartland in the 11th century, but sages such as the famous Bible commentator Rashi devised legal innovations to rebuild the shattered communities.
Regime change a century later in Spain ended the idyllic period known as La Convivencia (“the coexistence”) and drove the family of Maimonides from their ancestral home, but the great philosopher was able to replant the family in
Cairo, establishing a dynasty of leadership that cared for Jewish minorities throughout the Mediterranean basin for centuries.
The seventeenth-century peasant uprising under Bohdan Khmelnitsky drove tens of thousands of Jewish refugees to western Europe, but economic and communal restructuring allowed the Jews of Ukraine to rebound to their previous population numbers.
In every occasion, Jewish communities have found ways to rebound, often remarkably so, from devastating tragedies. The current expression of hostility emanating from some circles of American youth might not bode well for the Jewish vision of the United States as “the Golden Land,” but historical experience suggests that the energetic, ebullient and enthusiastic Jewish minority will find new ways to adapt. As the Hebrew expression goes, Am Yisrael chai— the Jewish people live.
Dr. Henry Abramson is a noted Jewish historian and dean of Touro University’s Lander College for Men
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INFORMATION OVERLOAD
SHABBAT IS AN ANTIDOTE TO STRESS
RABBI LORD JONATHAN SACKS ZT’L
ARE WE SUFFERING FROM INFORMATION OVERLOAD? TWO RECENTLY PUBLISHED SCIENTIFIC STUDIES SUGGEST THAT WE ARE. RESEARCHERS AT THE UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA, SAN DIEGO, ARGUE THAT THE CONTINUOUS FLOW OF DATA FROM EMAIL, THE INTERNET, MOBILE PHONES, TWITTER, FACEBOOK, YOUTUBE, AND THE REST IS BECOMING OVERWHELMING, AND PEOPLE ARE SUFFERING AS A RESULT.
Scientists at the University of Southern California’s Brain and Creativity Institute discovered, through monitoring responses by brain scans, that complex emotions such as admiration and compassion take much longer for the brain to register than other, less emotional tasks.
Both studies suggest that the continuous bombardment of news and information is making us emotionally exhausted. Our brains are conditioned to register empathy, sympathy, and altruism, but these emotions are processed by the prefrontal cortex, a relatively slow-moving part of the brain that is bypassed when we are under stress.
To have a healthy emotional response to situations, we need time to absorb, digest, and reflect. The pace of modern life is not allowing us this time. The danger is that we may become emotionally detached to simply cope with the overload. The digital age is moving too fast for us to respond humanly with the appropriate feelings. Felix Economakis, a specialist in stress, said, “When everything is screaming at us, we start withdrawing, so that normally nice people become unempathetic.”
He continued: “Either you control your technology or it will control you.” His advice is: “You should make certain days, and times such as family meals, sacred. You have to plan these things for now. The patients I see think that first they will get all their work communications out of the way, then they will start living. But they never get to start living.”
What a telling restatement in contemporary terms of the case for Shabbat. In ancient times, Shabbat was a release from slavery. Then it became a weekly respite from the pressures of work. When Jews were poor, once a week they sat around the dinner table in their best clothes as if they were royalty. When Jews were rich, once a week they were reminded that there are things you cannot buy.
Today, Shabbat is an antidote to stress. Economists and futurologists once predicted that automation would reduce the working week to 20 hours. They said our biggest problem would be what to do with all the time available for leisure. How wrong they were.
Today, people work longer hours on average than they did then. Technology like mobile phones, Blackberries, and laptops has made it seem like we are available at all times. This is the new form of slavery, well-paid and carrying high prestige but slavery nonetheless.
Shabbat—the email-free-zone—comes to the rescue, reminding us that there are other things in life: family, friends, community, and the chance to thank God for our blessings and listen to the Torah.
The following article was published in the Hirhurim Journal on 1st July 2010.
Rabbi Lord Jonathan Sacks ZT’L was an international religious leader, and philosopher. The author of over 30 books, Rabbi Sacks received multiple awards in recognition of his work. Sadly, he passed away in November 2020.
A LEGACY OF LEADERSHIP
RABBI DAVID YOSEF BECOMES ISRAEL’S SEPHARDIC CHIEF RABBI
RABBI DAVID YOSEF, SON OF THE ESTEEMED RABBI OVADIA YOSEF, HAS OFFICIALLY BEEN ELECTED AS ISRAEL’S SEPHARDIC CHIEF RABBI, MARKING A SIGNIFICANT MOMENT IN THE CONTINUATION OF A LONGSTANDING FAMILY LEGACY. HE IS THE THIRD MEMBER OF THE YOSEF FAMILY TO HOLD THIS INFLUENTIAL POSITION, FOLLOWING IN THE FOOTSTEPS OF HIS BROTHER, RABBI YITZHAK YOSEF, AND THEIR FATHER, WHO WAS WIDELY REVERED FOR HIS LEADERSHIP AND SCHOLARSHIP. THIS APPOINTMENT COMES AFTER A PERIOD OF INTENSE POLITICAL NEGOTIATIONS AND ELECTIONS, SOLIDIFYING THE ROLE OF THE YOSEF FAMILY IN GUIDING SEPHARDIC JEWRY.
The election, which took place after several delays due to political and legal challenges, saw Rabbi David Yosef emerging victorious among three candidates. His appointment was backed by the Shas party, reflecting the close ties between the political and religious sectors in Israel. The election was held by a statutory committee composed of rabbis, public figures, and municipal leaders, all working to ensure the continuity of leadership in the Sephardic community. Despite the political wrangling, Rabbi Yosef’s deep knowledge of Jewish law, his leadership in the religious community, and his connection to the Yosef family’s enduring legacy played a central role in securing the position.
Rabbi David Yosef is no stranger to leadership. A prominent figure in his own right, he has authored numerous volumes on Jewish law and served as the head of a prestigious yeshiva. His influence extends beyond his family name, earning respect from a broad spectrum of Israel’s religious community. In his new role, Rabbi David Yosef will oversee vital religious functions, including marriage laws, kosher certification, and rabbinical courts. These responsibilities hold immense weight in Israel, where the Chief Rabbinate plays a critical role in maintaining religious authority over Jewish life and practice.
This appointment is not just a personal victory for Rabbi David Yosef but also a reaffirmation of the Yosef family’s enduring impact on Israel’s religious landscape. His father, Rabbi Ovadia Yosef, was a towering figure who shaped much of modern Sephardic religious thought and law. Rabbi David Yosef’s election ensures that this influence will continue, providing continuity and stability in a time of change and uncertainty for Israel’s religious communities.
As he steps into his new role, Rabbi David Yosef carries with him the weight of his family’s legacy and the expectations of a community that looks to him for religious
leadership. His election represents both continuity and the ongoing evolution of Sephardic leadership in Israel. With his extensive scholarship and strong ties to the Sephardic community, Rabbi Yosef is well-positioned to guide Israel’s Sephardic Jews in the coming years.
SBH: 50 Years In The Making
The following story is an excerpt from our new book, SBH: 50 Years in the Making. We’re thrilled to announce this exciting new project and to share the story of one of our community’s most vital and distinguished organizations. This book will feature never-before-seen interviews with past presidents and archival documents that capture the magic and wisdom of SBH’s leaders and volunteers. Dive into the history of SBH, from its humble beginnings in a living room to the absolute force it is today. SBH’s story is as captivating as the individuals and teams who were integral to it, and we are so excited to share it with all of you. Our hope is for this book to live inside every community home, to pay tribute to our past and inspire our leaders of tomorrow.
By Esther Chehebar
On Monday, November 18th, SBH is hosting its 50th Anniversary Gala honoring the past and current presidents of SBH. To learn more about the dinner and journal sponsorship opportunities, contact Charles@sbhonline.org or visit www.sbh50.com
THE EARLY DAYS OF VISITING
Back when SBH was in its infancy and the only uniting principle was to visit the sick and elderly in hospitals, Fred Bijou walked into the room of a man he respected very much; there he found Hacham David Shammah in a “snakepit” ward, surrounded by seven other patients. The situation was intolerable to Fred. He realized he needed to do something, ASAP. In addition to mobilizing more volunteers, SBH’s financial committee – as it was then called – began fundraising. It wasn’t easy. Many did not believe that such poverty existed in our community, let alone the very real pandemic of loneliness. Others were ashamed to admit that they knew somebody in need or were resistant to the idea all together. With tenacity and perseverance SBH was finally able to raise the funds and move Hacham David Shammah home as well as hire a nurse to care for him. And SBH as we know it was born. As of 2023, SBH houses over a dozen divisions which address everything from fertility to career choice to medical and senior services. There are
over 75 therapists in SBH’s employ and the organization fields, on average, 300 calls a week from community members in need of assistance. At times it can feel impossible to identify which moments propelled SBH from one stratosphere to the next. But one thing is certain: the SBH of today exists because somebody knocked on a stranger’s door.
– Barbara Matalon “
Fred Bijou created something from nothing, and he did it with a lot of pushback. .... “
MICKY’S LIST
Barbara Matalon and Gloria Bijou are a part of SBH’s DNA. They began visiting patients in the hospital together with their husbands, and were present at those very first meetings in Fred Bijou’s living room. At the time, Barbara Matalon was just twenty two years old and had three young babies at home. Still, SBH’s mission was a calling she could not walk away from.
Barbara had been doing hospital visits for a few months when Micky Kairey’s list changed
everything. Micky and Barbara were in the car on the way home from a hospital visit when he turned to her and said: “You know, there are people at home that you really need to visit. Start with this one.” Micky had been entrusted with a list of widows and orphans that originated from Ma’oz La’ebyon in Syria. Quietly, and on his own, Micky had been taking care of scores of people, community members who were privately suffering, hidden from the mainstream. Together with Linda Benun and Gloria Bijou, Barbara Matalon began taking on cases from that original list.
Fred Bijou, Founding President Elliot Bibi, Jersey Division Founder Dr. Bobby Matalon, Second SBH President
... The captains would catch things. One woman was smart enough to realize her client had a stroke when nobody else had noticed. Indeed, he did have one and was able to get help. “ “
-- Barbara Matalon
FROM HOSPITALS TO HOMES
HIDDEN IN PLAIN VIEW
Every SBH client was connected to a mainstream community person is some way or another; it just wasn’t spoken about. Not only that, many were skeptical that the need for a social services organization in our community existed at all. On their very first home visit, Barbara and Linda trekked up five flights of stairs to visit an elderly woman with no siblings. With no hired help or childcare at home, Barbara and Linda brought their babies along, as they would continue to do on most visits. The client, a 97-year-old lovely lady who stood no taller than four feet tall, opened the door with great excitement, “You came to visit me? How lucky am I!” Barbara still remembers how the woman cooked an entire shabbat meal in countless tiny pots, all for herself. “Everything was a beracha to her.” Barbara recalled.
Gloria Bijou and Becky Rosenblatt, SBH Founding Board Members
The pair did everything from offer mental and physical support, to washing dishes… Barbara recalled one particularly difficult visit: “We rolled up our sleeves and began scrubbing pots as [the client] lay under piles of covers because she had no heat. There were tins of cat food all over the floor and no cat to be found. When we asked her why she simply replied: ‘Because it’s cheaper.’”
THE HOME VISIT CREW RECRUITS VOLUNTEERS
Barbara, Linda, Gloria and Sandy Esses all juggled young families while visiting 1-2 times a week. They realized they needed to recruit more volunteers. Barbara soon had seventy women in her living room eager to help. Hacham Baruch’s wife was one of them. Gloria Bijou’s mother-in-law was another.
SBH was barely a year old when Passover rolled around, and the harsh reality that many clients would not be able to have a seder, materialized. What would it take to make a seder plate for each one? The team wondered. Ideas began firing off at all cylinders.
We’ll make the berachot!
Gloria will cook the meals! What would it cost?
$2,000: Money they didn’t have.
The next day, Fred Bijou opened his mail slot to find a banker’s check for $2,000. They never found out where it came from. But in the years that followed small miracles like this would happen time and time again, helping SBH attain the unattainable.
On another hard visit, Barbara and Linda decided to leave their children at home. They knew that this case would be tough, even for them. They knocked on Rosie’s door, but nobody answered. They knocked some more, and could hear shuffling coming from the other side of the door. They continued to wait until finally, Rosie had dragged herself across the floor to open the door. The sight was shocking. The floor was soiled and the apartment was a mess. But Linda and Barbara continued the visit and told Rosie that they would be back again next week. The following week they knocked on the door, expecting the same wait and litter on the other side. Instead, Rosie answered the door immediately, fully dressed, her makeup and hair done. The apartment was completely clean. In just one week they had seen what their visit had done for this client.
THE YOUTH GET INVOLVED
During the early days of visiting SBH operated out of its original office at 530 Avenue R. Linda and Gloria decided to try and involve the high school students by prompting them to make Purim packages. This led to the students delivering the packages and paying a visit at the same time. It’s difficult to imagine just how revolutionary this was. Today, there are countless community organizations and individuals who make and deliver packages for any and all occasions. However back then, it wasn’t nearly as common, if at all! The kids were inspired to do Hesed and learned invaluable life skills in the process; how to be compassionate, respectful and inclusive of those different from you.
1998, Children Health Awareness Day , Linda Benun and a volunteer
Barbara Matalon, Rochelle Mansour, Eva Tawil
THE HIDDEN TRUTH ABOUT INFLATION IN YOUR FINANCIAL LIFE DO YOU LIKE WASABI?
ARI BAUM, CFP®
WHAT IF I TOLD YOU THAT MOST PEOPLE WHO CLAIM TO LOVE WASABI HAVE NEVER ACTUALLY TASTED
THE REAL THING? AROUND 90% OF THE WASABI SERVED IN RESTAURANTS IS FAKE, TYPICALLY JUST DYED HORSERADISH WITH SOME ADDITIVES. THIS MIGHT COME AS A SURPRISE, BUT THERE’S A REASON FOR IT—REAL WASABI IS INCREDIBLY EXPENSIVE.
Some farmers charge $150 to $250 for just a couple of pounds of authentic wasabi, thanks to its labor-intensive cultivation. It takes up to three years for wasabi to mature, and it grows only under highly specific conditions, which makes production challenging. Because of this, many restaurants take shortcuts and serve imitation wasabi, offering a cheaper alternative that most diners unknowingly accept.
This story of “fake wasabi” offers an insightful analogy to personal finance: just as many consumers unknowingly settle for counterfeit wasabi, many people also overlook how inflation and subtle financial changes affect their lives. So, what lessons can we learn from this wasabi tale? Let’s explore how understanding authenticity, scarcity, and inflation can reshape your financial decisions.
THE HIDDEN IMPACT OF INFLATION— A BIT LIKE FAKE WASABI
Even if you’re consuming “fake” wasabi, you’ve probably noticed that the price of your sushi dinner keeps going up. This phenomenon is inflation, and whether you realize it or not, it has a silent but pervasive effect on your purchasing power. Just as counterfeit wasabi seems “good enough,” we often tolerate rising prices by telling ourselves it’s normal— after all, inflation is just part of life, right?
But here’s the problem: even small price increases can have a cumulative effect over time. A sushi roll that cost $12 last year might now be $14. If inflation continues unchecked, those increases will erode your ability to buy the things you need or want, including the essentials like housing, healthcare, and groceries. Just as fake wasabi is cheaper but less authentic, inflationary changes subtly
push consumers toward cheaper substitutes—whether that means scaling back on vacations, dining out less, or opting for generic brands.
The challenge, then, is how to maintain your quality of life while protecting your financial future from inflation’s corrosive effects.
SCARCITY AND VALUE: LESSONS FROM WASABI CULTIVATION
The scarcity of real wasabi demonstrates a key financial principle: things that are rare or hard to obtain hold greater value. Similarly, in your financial life, the things that are hard to build—like a healthy savings account or investment portfolio—tend to yield the most meaningful returns over time.
The wasabi farmer’s patience, tending crops for years before reaping the harvest, mirrors the patience needed in financial planning. Investments take time to grow, and enduring market fluctuations can be as frustrating as trying to grow a temperamental crop. But the rewards—whether in the form of financial independence or a secure retirement—make the effort worthwhile.
So, how can you apply this scarcity principle to your finances? Here are a few ideas:
• Focus on long-term investments: Just like wasabi, your portfolio needs time to mature. Stick with it through market cycles.
• Resist the temptation to chase trends: Just because something seems popular (like a flashy stock or cryptocurrency) doesn’t mean it’s valuable in the long run.
• Practice financial discipline: Saving and investing consistently, even in small amounts, builds lasting wealth over time.
BEWARE OF “FAKE” FINANCIAL STRATEGIES
Just as many sushi restaurants offer counterfeit wasabi to cut costs, there are also financial products that masquerade as valuable but deliver disappointing results. For example, some high-fee mutual funds or insurance products might look like a good deal but end up eroding your wealth with unnecessary costs over time.
In today’s world, where financial complexity abounds, it’s essential to seek authenticity in your financial strategies. That means:
• Evaluating the true cost of investments: Are the fees on your accounts eating into your returns?
• Avoiding financial fads: Quick wins are often too good to be true—just like cheap “wasabi.”
• Working with trusted advisors: An expert can help you identify authentic opportunities and steer you away from counterfeits.
INFLATION IS INEVITABLE—PLAN FOR IT
Whether it’s sushi or housing, prices are rising across the board. Inflation is often beyond your control, but your financial strategy doesn’t have to be. The key to staying ahead is planning for inflation and making intentional adjustments:
1. Invest in inflation-resistant assets: Real estate, stocks, and Treasury Inflation-Protected Securities (TIPS) can help shield your wealth from inflation.
2. Revisit your budget regularly: Adjust your spending to reflect changing prices, and make sure your savings goals account for inflation.
3. Increase your earning potential: Just as farmers raise prices to reflect the scarcity of wasabi, you may need to negotiate raises or seek new income streams.
KNOW WHAT YOU’RE PAYING FOR— IN WASABI AND LIFE
The next time you enjoy sushi, ask yourself: Is this the real deal? And take that same level of curiosity into your financial life. Are you settling for “good enough,” or are you actively working toward authentic financial success?
Just as authentic wasabi is rare and valuable, achieving long-term financial stability requires effort, patience, and intention. Inflation and hidden costs will continue to rise, much like the prices at your favorite sushi spot. The question is, will you let them catch you off guard—or will you prepare with a strategy as thoughtful and deliberate as a wasabi farmer’s harvest?
If you’re ready to cultivate real financial growth—like authentic wasabi—start planting the seeds today. It might take time, but the rewards will be worth it.
Bonus Tip: Next time you’re served wasabi, ask if it’s real. It’s a fun conversation starter—and a reminder that in both sushi and finance, authenticity makes all the difference.
The content is developed from sources believed to provide accurate information. Investing involves risk including the potential loss of principal. No investment strategy can guarantee a profit or protect against loss in periods of declining values. Past performance does not guarantee future results. Consult with a financial professional regarding your specific situation.
Ari Baum, CFP® is the Founder and CEO of Endurance Wealth Partners, with over 25 years of experience in the Financial Services industry. He brings his in-depth experience to Conceive. Believe. Achieve. for his clients. Securities and Advisory services offered through Prospera Financial Services Inc. Member FINRA/SIPC. Brokerage and Advisory accounts carried by Wells Fargo Clearing Services, LLC.
LONGINES SPIRIT ZULU TIME
SOD HAADAM CHANGED THE WAY I LIVE MY LIFE
SALLY SHALOM
When I first discovered Sod Haadam, I was going through one of the hardest periods of my life. Everything felt overwhelming, and my adult children were pulling away from me. I didn’t understand what was happening. I had always thought I was doing my best as a mother, but it felt like our connection was slipping away.
From the very first class, Sod Haadam began to shift everything for me. The calming voice reached my heart, and I started to see things from a completely new perspective. I realized my children were carrying their own pain, and I needed to meet them where they were. Through the course, I began to understand them on a much deeper level and was able to rebuild stronger, more meaningful relationships with them. The program taught me the power of my own heart, and by opening up, my expanded heart has the ability to heal and support my children so they can
live their lives with a solid foundation, without fear and anxiety.
The course gave me confidence, clarity, and helped me not take things out of context. I learned to focus on the good in my children and help them break through the emotional barriers we had unknowingly built. Sod Haadam came into my life at exactly the right time—when I needed it most—and it completely transformed my relationships.
I highly recommend Sod Haadam to any parent, teacher, or anyone seeking a deeper understanding of themselves and others. It goes beyond what any therapy can offer. It truly changed my life when I was at my lowest.
Sally Shalom is a wife, mother and grandmother living in Long Branch, NJ
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A POWERFUL ANNIVERSARY TRIBUTE TO ISRAEL ON OCTOBER 7 DSN’S NIGHT OF UNITY
ON THE SOLEMN ANNIVERSARY OF THE OCTOBER 7 ATTACK, THE JERSEY SHORE COMMUNITY AND RABBIS GATHERED TO COMMEMORATE THE TRAGIC EVENTS OF THE PAST YEAR AND PRAY FOR THE STRENGTH AND RESILIENCE OF THE JEWISH PEOPLE.
Over 1500 people filled the DSN Beach Club, standing together in support of Israel and reflecting on the profound connection that has only grown since that fateful day. The evening began with a moment of silence, marked by the powerful sound of a foghorn, creating a poignant atmosphere of remembrance. Nechamia Katz’s stirring rendition of Hatikvah followed, filling the air with hope and pride, as all stood united.
Jeffrey Saka began the night, offering heartfelt words of welcome and gratitude. “We feel very fortunate at DSN to host this Night of Unity commemorating the tragic events of Oct 7th. We’ve had so many wonderful programs throughout the year keeping Israel at the forefront. We are so proud of our team and community. The impact is everlasting and far reaching.”
In a surprise guest appearance, renowned singer Yakov Shweky captivated the audience with three deeply moving songs, including Im Eshkachech Yerushalayim (If I forget thee, O Jerusalem), a song that perfectly encapsulated the community’s shared longing for peace in Israel.
Leading community rabbis joined on stage, including Rabbi Shlomo Diamond, Rabbi Saul Kassin, Rabbi Elie Abadi, Rabbi David Tawil, Rabbi Joseph Dana, Rabbi Chaim Arking, Rabbi Joey Dayon, Rabbi Moshe Malka,
Rabbi Moshe Doueck, Rabbi Label Shapiro, Rabbi Ari Katz, Rabbi Moses Hidary, Rabbi Yaakov Sadigh, Rabbi Nasanayl Braun, Rabbi Avi Yagen, and Rabbi Ozeri.
Victoria Sutton, DSN Executive Board Member and Chairperson of Beach Club Events & Marketing, orchestrated the evening as it transitioned into a beautiful prayer and torch-lighting ceremony, with prayers for the hostages, the IDF and the State of Israel. A stunning Magen David candelabra, skillfully crafted by Matania Aharonovitz, became the centerpiece as Rabbis lit the candles, symbolizing the eternal light of the Jewish people.
Rabbi Kassin shared inspiring Divrei Torah, recounting past trips to Israel and reminding the audience of the sacred bond between the Jewish people and the land. Rabbi Dayon followed with the introduction of a touching DSN montage video, showcasing the 65 Israel-related events and programs DSN has hosted over the past year, highlighting the community’s dedication to Israel. He concluded, “Throughout our history, putting aside our differences and uniting has always brought about salvation! BH in this merit we will bring the final redemption speedily”.
The audience was especially moved by the words of Yoni Diller, a survivor of the Nova tragedy and activist, who was introduced by Rabbi Shapiro, and shared his powerful story of survival and hope for the future. Yoni later said how
he was “deeply thankful for the opportunity to speak for such an amazing and supportive crowd”. Israel Portnoy, a talented musician, then performed Shema Yisrael, bringing many to tears with his soulful performance.
The evening continued as the audience was honored to hear a Divrei Torah from Rabbi Diamond that encouraged reflection and gratitude. Rabbi Braun followed and introduced Bar Reuven, a reserve combat officer in Unit 669, sharing his experiences as a soldier in this elite special search and rescue unit. Nechamia Katz and Israel Portnoy followed with a beautiful duet rendition of Ten Li Tefilah (Give Me One Prayer) and the night concluded with the entire crowd joining together in a rousing rendition of Am Yisrael Chai, a declaration of the enduring strength and unity of the Jewish people.
Special thanks were given to Ricky Esses, who generously donated his expertise in sound and video, and to Marjorie Ayash, whose photos will help capture the evening’s memory.
As attendees waved Israeli flags, the evening’s message was clear: the essence of the Jewish people is unity, and through strength in numbers and faith, there is no
was proud. “Led by our incredible Rabbis, it was so heartwarming to see our community come together on this night”.
Victoria Sutton, visionary of the event, summarized all of the feelings. “Tonight was filled with so many emotions. Being together on this one-year anniversary of October 7th meant everything. Unity and community are at the heart of DSN and since that day in 2023 we have continuously shown our love and support for our brothers and sisters in Israel. Over the past year so much has happened; with more than 65 Israeli events, we feel incredibly blessed to have shared these moments together and will always cherish the wonderful people we have met and the relationships and friendships formed. Our DSN family has grown closer and stronger than ever. BH. May this year bring home the return of all of the hostages, safety for the state of Israel, and peace for Jews around the world.”
It was an emotional, inspiring, and deeply spiritual evening. With Hashem’s guidance, DSN and the Jersey Shore community look forward to accomplishing even more together in the years ahead. Am Yisrael Chai!
limit to what can be achieved. DSN President Lee Zekaria
PROSTATE CANCER PREVENTION
A Q and A with urologist Dr. Ralph Madeb
WHAT IS THE PROSTATE GLAND?
The prostate gland is a small, walnut-sized organ located below the bladder and in front of the rectum in men. It plays a crucial role in the male reproductive system.
WHAT IS THE RECOMMENDED SCREENING AGE FOR PROSTATE CANCER?
For average-risk men, guidelines suggest beginning discussions about prostate cancer screening at age 50. For higher-risk men, those with a family history of prostate cancer or African American men, who are at higher risk, may start discussions earlier, around age 45. Make sure to ask family members if they or any other relative they know had prostate cancer.
HOW DO YOU SCREEN FOR PROSTATE CANCER?
Screening for prostate cancer typically involves several methods, each with its own benefits and limitations.
1. Prostate-Specific Antigen (PSA) Test: This blood test measures the level of PSA, a protein produced by the prostate gland. Elevated levels can indicate prostate cancer, but they can also be caused by other conditions, such as benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) or prostatitis.
2. Digital Rectal Exam (DRE): During this physical exam, a healthcare provider inserts a gloved, lubricated finger into the rectum to feel the prostate for any irregularities. It's less sensitive than the PSA test but can sometimes detect abnormalities not picked up by blood tests.
3. Prostate Biopsy: If PSA levels are high or the DRE is abnormal, a prostate biopsy might be recommended. This involves taking small samples of prostate tissue to be examined for cancer cells.
4. MRI : An MRI of the prostate can be used to get a more detailed image of the prostate and surrounding tissues. It’s often used to evaluate the extent of cancer or to guide biopsies. It’s not typically used for initial screening but can be helpful in the diagnostic process.
5. Transrectal Ultrasound (TRUS): This imaging test uses sound waves to create an image of the prostate. It’s
often used in conjunction with a biopsy to guide the needle. Like MRI, it’s not usually used for routine screening.
6. Genetic Testing: For men with a family history of prostate cancer or other risk factors, genetic tests can assess susceptibility to prostate cancer.
WHAT ARE THE SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS OF PROSTATE CANCER?
Prostate cancer often develops slowly and might not show symptoms in its early stages. When symptoms do appear, they can vary and may include:
1. Urinary symptoms such as frequent urination (especially at night), weak or interrupted urine flow or painful or burning sensation during urination.
2. Blood in Urine or Semen.
3. Painful ejaculation or pain in the lower back, hips, or pelvis.
4. Sexual Dysfunction such as erectile dysfunction.
5. Other Symptoms such as unexplained weight loss, fatigue or general feeling of being unwell.
In some cases, prostate cancer can spread beyond the prostate gland, leading to additional symptoms such as pain in the bones, swelling in the legs and loss of appetite.
It’s important to note that these symptoms can also be caused by conditions other than cancer, such as benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) or prostatitis. If you're experiencing any of these symptoms or have concerns about prostate health, it's crucial to consult a healthcare provider for evaluation and appropriate testing.
HOW CAN I REDUCE MY RISK OF PROSTATE CANCER?
Reducing your risk of prostate cancer involves adopting healthy lifestyle habits and staying informed about your health.
1. Adopt a Healthy Diet:
Eat a Variety of Fruits and Vegetables, Choose Whole Grains, Incorporate Healthy Fats: Opt for sources of omega-3 fatty acids found in fish like salmon, and nuts.
Limit saturated and trans fats and consider soy products. Avoid Red and Processed Meat as much as possible.
2. Exercise Regularly:
Regular physical activity helps maintain a healthy weight and can have protective effects against various cancers. Aim for at least 150 minutes a week of moderate intensity (30 minutes a day 5 days a week) or 75 minutes of vigorous activity a week.
3. Maintain a Healthy Weight:
Obesity is associated with a higher risk of aggressive prostate cancer. Adopting a balanced diet and regular exercise can help manage weight.
4. Limit Alcohol Intake:
Alcohol consumption can increase the risk of several cancers, so it's advisable to limit alcohol intake. If you choose to drink alcohol, keep your cancer risk as low as possible by having no more than a few servings per week.
5. Avoid Smoking:
Smoking is a risk factor for many types of cancer. Quitting smoking or avoiding tobacco use altogether can benefit overall health and reduce cancer risk.
6. Regular Health Screenings:
Discuss with your healthcare provider whether prostate cancer screening is appropriate for you, especially if you have risk factors like a family history of the disease.
7. Know Your Family History:
If you have a family history of prostate cancer, you might be at increased risk. Share this information with your healthcare provider to determine if you need to start screening earlier or follow additional preventive measures.
Call the Morris I. Franco Cancer Center/ Medstar Medical Referral at 718-787-1800 to guide and help you find the right doctor for your prostate screening.
CARE is there for you like family.
CARE advisors connect siblings, parents, and children to all sorts of programs, referrals to schools, homes, special programs and therapies. CARE makes sure you’re taken care of and celebrates your child’s milestones.
MAGEN DAVID YESHIVAH REMEMBERS OCTOBER 7TH A DAY OF SOLIDARITY WITH ISRAEL
On October 7th, 2024, Magen David Yeshivah came together to remember the heartbreaking events that unfolded in Israel. The day was filled with meaningful activities that helped our students connect with Israel and show their support.
Our elementary school began the day by displaying a powerful tribute—a large yellow ribbon symbolizing unity with Israel, surrounded by the names of all the hostages. It was a strong reminder of the challenges our fellow Jews in Israel are facing.
Boys in grades 6-8 participated in a live Selihot prayer at the Kotel via Zoom. This special moment made the students feel like they were part of something bigger, as they joined in prayer with those standing at one of the holiest places in Jerusalem.
In Mrs. Nitza Levy’s class, the girls had the opportunity to meet Raymond “Chef RayT” Tawil, a graduate of Magen David Yeshivah. He shared stories about his many trips to Israel and how they inspired him to get involved with the Sephardic Community Alliance (SCA). A big thank you to the SCA for providing the solidarity pins that were given to all the students, from 1st-12th grade, as a symbol of our support for Israel.
Our younger students also took part in meaningful activities. The 3rd graders joined a special Tehilim project, sponsored by Cynthia and Albert Setton and family in honor of Ruby Setton. Each child received their own personalized Tehilim book, which they will use to pray for peace and safety in Israel, and used it to recite Tehillim together on stage.
In 5th grade, Mrs. Lizzy Mizrahi led a creative project
where the girls made a banner with the words “
נשכח” (Remember and Never Forget). It was a powerful reminder that we will always keep the memory of what happened on October 7th close to our hearts.
We also had the privilege of hearing from Mr. Jamie Lassner, Executive Director of the Purple Vest Mission, who spoke to the students about his important work in evacuating disabled people from conflict zones in Israel and Ukraine. His stories were inspiring and gave our students a sense of how we can help those in need.
As students walked into our high school building, they
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took in banners hanging all over the atrium with names of the 1,159 innocent lives lost on October 7th, and candles of commemoration. They gathered for a school-wide program, organized by Mrs. Margalit Alnatan, which began with words from Rabbi Eli Mansour.
Mr. Morris Missry joined us to speak of the heroism he saw while in Israel on the MDY Solidarity Mission in November and how it inspired the members of the trip to donate an Ambucycle to United Hatzalah.
Dr. Yair Ansbacher, National Security Researcher and expert who works as a Fellow in the Misgav Institute for National Security and Zionist Strategy, told us we need to
change our viewpoint to see the miracles of October 7th and that each of our students is a Jewish hero and they will bring redemption.
Hazzan Mordechai Salem set the tone for the day as our students reflected on everything they saw and heard. These activities and presentations helped our students feel more connected to Israel and showed them the importance of standing together in difficult times. Magen David Yeshivah continues to be a place where our students learn about responsibility, unity, and the power of prayer and action. May our nation know no more suffering, יח
(Am Yisrael Chai)
Introducing the Sephardic Division at Chai Lifeline
Support for Every Family Member, Every Step of the Way
Chai Lifeline proudly announces the establishment of the Sephardic Division, dedicated to providing culturally sensitive health and crisis support tailored specifically for Sephardic families in our community. Under the experienced leadership of Jack Tabbush, the Sephardic Division leverages Chai Lifeline’s global resources and expertise to ensure comprehensive care for every member of the family so that no one has to navigate their journey alone.
Our Comprehensive Services Include:
Personalized Case Management
Trauma and Crisis Intervention
Hospital Respite and Volunteer Support
Targeted Counseling Services
Emergency Financial Aid
Big Brothers & Sisters Mentorship
Nutritious Meals for Hospital and Home
Home-Based Volunteer Assistance
Transportation to Medical Appointments
Insurance Advocacy
Recreational and Therapeutic Activities
Camp Simcha Summer Programming
Learn more about the Chai Lifeline Sephardic Division at www.chailifeline.org/sephardic or contact us at 718-475-0002.
WILLIAM BARTHMAN AND BVLGARI CELEBRATE 140 YEARS OF EXCELLENCE IN LUXURY
WILLIAM BARTHMAN JEWELER RECENTLY HOSTED A MEMORABLE EVENING IN PARTNERSHIP WITH BVLGARI AT THEIR NEWLY-RENOVATED MIDWOOD LOCATION. THE HIGHLY ANTICIPATED EVENT SHOWED A DEEP APPRECIATION FOR LOYAL CLIENTELE, AS WELL AS THE ORGANIZATION’S UNWAVERING COMMITMENT TO EXCEPTIONAL SERVICE AND SELECTION OF FINE TIMEPIECES AND JEWELRY.
The Brooklyn space has served as a staple in the high-end King’s Highway shopping district since 1998, and it was given a beautiful reinvention more befitting the modern retailer, while paying homage to its rich heritage. Marble and wood construction with bronze and gold accents throughout create a refined ambiance and aesthetic.
Many thoughtful details were added to the space to elevate its hospitality offerings, including more cozy seating options and a sophisticated bar area. At over five thousand square feet, the Brooklyn boutique is able to comfortably entertain many visitors while maintaining an inviting ambiance. Shop-in-shop installations were meticulously designed to showcase the unique character and craftsmanship of prestigious brands including Bvlgari, Breitling, IWC, Hublot, and Tudor.
With its own dedicated area at the far end of the store, Rolex with William Barthman masterfully created a haven for current and future collectors to experience the beauty and distinction of the brand. As part of the elite worldwide network of Official Rolex Jewelers, William Barthman is authorized to sell and maintain Rolex watches, ensuring
that every client receives a timepiece that is both genuine and exceptional, as well as the highest standard of service and authenticity.
Alongside the masters of watches, William Barthman lives up to its jeweler status featuring a curation of artisandesigned collections from Italian favorites Roberto Coin, Pasquale Bruni, Damiani, and Chimento. Also available for purchase is fine Baccarat crystal for your gifting needs. Rounding out their offerings, William Barthman has continued to provide top-tier watch and jewelry service and repairs to ensure that vintage and modern heirlooms can be passed down through generations and enjoyed.
After all, the heart and soul of William Barthman lie in
their dedication to providing superior service and engagement within the greater New York community. The original Financial District location opened more than a century ago in 1884 under the Barthman family, and carved out its place in history as a luxury retailer that values professionalism and a personal touch at every interaction. Many may know the company for their original monument to timekeeping, the Clock in the Sidewalk. Although the Manhattan location has been moved twice over, the clock still remains at its spot, and is due for a tune-up and return to its unique value in the neighborhood and with timekeeping enthusiasts.
Upon acquiring the company in 1983, Jerry Natkin Sr. has ensured that the operation remains a well-oiled dream-
fulfilling machine, now with active involvement from his son Steven and grandson Jerry Jr. Family values and a devotion to preserving the legacy of the oldest retailer of its kind in New York are pillars of the Natkins’ strategy to keep William Barthman relevant and beloved by anyone who walks through their doors in Manhattan or Brooklyn, or even enjoys an online shopping experience via their website. The combined experience of the Natkin family and their expert staff is matched only by their passion for going aboveand-beyond with every promise made to customers. The sales staff prides itself on a superb level of knowledge and understanding of product catalogs and customer needs to guarantee that everyone leaves happy and return happier.
With coinciding 140-year anniversaries, William Barthman and Bvlgari set the stage for an evening of elegance centered on the theme “Aging Like Fine Wine.” The attendees were treated to a smorgasbord of delicious Italian aperitivo, mini desserts, and, of course, fine wine. Bvlgari experts were on hand to showcase their innovative collections, and captivated the audience with a special selection of showstopper pieces that are a testament to Bvlgari’s distinctive style and craftsmanship.
The glamorous house of Bvlgari is famous for its fine watches and jewelry, accessories, leather goods, and fragrances, making it a pioneer in many sectors. Now under multinational conglomerate LVMH, Bvlgari continues to position itself as a world leader in creative vision. Working in harmony with partner vendors is a priority for William Barthman to create meaningful moments of discovery for their client family, so expect more intimate gatherings and dazzling affairs from the William Barthman team in the near future.
Guests of the event were also able to view the proud retailer’s newest category offering: Rolex Certified PreOwned timepieces. The addition provides an opportunity for customers to own a piece of Rolex history, with each pre-owned watch undergoing a rigorous inspection process to ensure its authenticity and condition. The Certified PreOwned collection offers a range of models that are both timeless and contemporary, appealing to collectors and
enthusiasts who are devoted to the craftsmanship and heritage of Rolex. William Barthman’s own handpicked collection of non-Rolex pre-owned watches are available in-store and soon to be online as well.
William Barthman remains committed to honoring the values that have guided its hallowed institution since its birth in 1884, and resolves to keep its roots firmly planted in the history of New York no matter what comes its way. World Wars, natural disasters, economic downturns, and acts of terrorism may shake their foundation, but William Barthman stands tall as a beacon of refined taste and community relations.
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CELEBRATING GROWTH:
THE STANLEY I. CHERA SAM SCHOOL EXPANDS WITH NEW 96TH STREET CAMPUS
THE STANLEY I. CHERA SAM SCHOOL (FORMERLY SEPHARDIC ACADEMY OF MANHATTAN) RECENTLY CELEBRATED A MAJOR MILESTONE WITH THE OPENING OF ITS SECOND CAMPUS AT EAST 96TH STREET AND FIFTH AVENUE. THE RIBBON-CUTTING CEREMONY MARKED NOT ONLY THE LAUNCH OF THIS LANDMARK BUILDING BUT THE CONTINUED GROWTH AND VISION OF A SCHOOL THAT HAS BECOME INCREASINGLY ESSENTIAL TO THE ORTHODOX JEWISH COMMUNITY IN MANHATTAN.
SAM has experienced remarkable expansion since its founding, with its early childhood program at 74th Street now serving over 140 new and returning students, including its largest toddler group to date. The new 96th Street campus currently has 50 students in grades K-4 enrolled, creating much-needed space for families seeking an education that combines academic excellence with a deep connection to our Torah values.
Rabbi Elie Abadie, SAM’s visionary founder, was honored at the event for his leadership in establishing this institution, alongside the dedicated educators, board members, and community volunteers who have been instrumental in SAM’s success. Manhattan Borough President Mark Levine attended along with many community leaders, celebrating SAM’s role in filling a critical need in the area.
SAM emerged as an educational institution that not only meets the educational demands of our community but is actively expanding to fulfill future needs. The leadership
team emphasized exciting plans for the school’s future, including the launch of a middle school next year, with a high school on the horizon. These expansions ensure that SAM will continue to offer a complete, high-quality education for students, from early childhood through high school. To accommodate families from across the Jewish
Manhattan Borough President Mark Levine, Rabbi Elie Abadie, MD., and Rabbi Avraham Moyal cutting the ribbon to launch the E.96th Street campus of The SAM School.
Orthodox community, SAM will also introduce bus service from Brooklyn next year.
SAM’s expansion is not just a reflection of its success but also a response to the community’s needs for a strong educational institution that honors our Orthodox Jewish heritage while providing a world-class education. As SAM looks toward the future, it remains deeply committed to shaping the next generation of leaders and thinkers.
Standing behind this remarkable achievement are a dedicated board and parent body, with countless indi-
viduals who have made this possible. Rabbi Ariel Mizrahi (Rabbinical Leader), Chary Fox (Early Childhood Director), Michelle Dayan (Executive Director), Dr. Rachel Harari (Co-Head of Elementary School), and Mary Peldman (Co-Head of Elementary School) have been instrumental in making the dream a reality.
For those interested in learning more about SAM or taking a tour of the new campus, the school encourages reaching out to admin@thesamschool.org for Early Childhood, and Dr. Rachel Harari at rharari@thesamschool.org for the Elementary and Middle School.
Bobby Adjmi, Rabbi Ariel Mizrahi, and Alex Adjmi
David Beyda, Moses Tawil, Elliot Azrak, Ikey Chehebar, Haim Chera, Michael Silverman, Steven Cohen.
Rabbi Shlomo Farhi, Solly Assa, and Harry Adjmi
Chairman of the Board of Trustees, Haim Chera, sharing his vision for the future of The SAM School.
FAMILY MATTERS
THE IMPORTANCE OF PROPER PLANNING, AND THE IMPLEMENTATION OF BUY-SELL AGREEMENTS IN FAMILY BUSINESSES, IS ESSENTIAL TO SECURE A HEALTHY, ONGOING, GENERATIONAL RELATIONSHIP.
DAVID CHABBOTT
ONE OF THE CORE TENETS OF OUR COMMUNITY, WHICH HAS KEPT US TOGETHER FOR HUNDREDS OF YEARS, IS THE IMPORTANCE OF MAINTAINING AN INCREDIBLY CLOSE RELATIONSHIP WITH OUR FAMILY. THIS CAN BE SEEN GEOGRAPHICALLY, WITH BROTHERS AND SISTERS MAKING EVERY EFFORT TO LIVE MERE BLOCKS FROM THEIR PARENTS. WE SEE IT AT THE HOLIDAY TABLE, WITH THE NORM BEING A LARGE GATHERING, SOMETIMES 4 GENERATIONS DEEP. INEVITABLY, THE TIGHT-KNIT BONDS WE DEVELOP WITH OUR SIBLINGS AND RELATIVES EVOLVED TOWARDS THE ECONOMIC SIDE OF THE COIN. FOR MANY, THE “FAMILY BUSINESS,” IS A BEDROCK OF THE SUSTAINABILITY AND PRESERVATION FOR THE PRESENT AND FUTURE ECONOMIC HEALTH OF OUR COMMUNITY.
Growing up with the expectation of sitting side by side with your father is a blessing that not all are privy to. Working with the people you love the most, on paper, is a dream. The reality is, just like with all relationships, when working with family it is imperative proper steps be taken, to ensure the future of the company, and that organizational structures be put in place in anticipation of the inevitable.
In the 1930’s as my grandfather David Chabbott A’H was on the Lower East Side, selling shmatas (selling clothing or textiles), it’s safe to say he wasn’t thinking about how to split his handkerchiefs into quarters for his four future children. Almost a century ago, the most important thing was creating something to benefit the now; food on the table, clothing for the chagim (holidays), a roof over your head.
Fast forward to today, and for so many, our grandparents’ businesses are now feeding their great grandchildren. Businesses have grown exponentially, and the number of people depending on the success and continued expansion of said businesses could be hundreds.
“He’s my brother, we don’t need an agreement on paper.”
As a financial advisor at The Power Forward Group, I constantly deal with members of our community who are partners in their business with siblings, cousins, and close friends. My first question to them is consistent, do you have a partnership agreement? Surprisingly often, the response is hostile. Family matters tend to be the most sensitive topic to broach, and the suggestion that a contract be implemented into a business plan, can be perceived as an implication of
trouble brewing within the fabric of a family structure. The fact is, it’s exactly the opposite.
The reason for implementing a partnership agreement is to ensure the continued success of a family business, which be’ezrat Hashem can flourish for the next 3 generations.
One of the most tragic things to witness amongst family members are siblings who no longer speak, because of something in the family business that went sour. We see these fights spill into the shiva, where two people may even refuse to sit in the same house. It’s safe to say that earlier in their working lives, people going through these conflicts never foresaw what the future would hold.
So, what is a partnership agreement? While there are many variations, a commonly used type is a Buy- Sell agreement. In a Buy-Sell agreement, there is an agreement on paper where upon the passing of one of the partners, shares owned by the deceased are purchased by the surviving partner for a set price. The most important aspect to having a working Buy-Sell agreement, is the annual monitoring of the valuation of a company. Even with the most well-crafted, perfectly written partnership agreement, if a valuation isn’t updated consistently, problems will often arise.
One of the best ways to fund a Buy-Sell agreement is a Business Owned Life Insurance policy. In this scenario, there is a Cross Ownership/ Purchase of Life Insurance policies. In its simplest terms, Cross Ownership life insurance refers to a situation where two or more parties, such as business partners or family members, own life insurance policies on each other’s lives. This arrangement ensures that if one party passes away, the others receive the death benefit to help cover financial obligations, business expenses, or personal needs. While not the perfect solution, these types of arrangements are incredibly useful in helping avoid conflict
the inevitable situation where one
passes before the other. All business owners should consult with their estate lawyers and accountants when developing such a plan, to learn more about the tax benefits and proper structuring as well.
Personally, when my father passed away in 2019, there was a partnership agreement with a Cross Owned Life Insurance policy in place. While we did not implement the agreement, which was a choice made by my family and my father’s business partner, the existence of this vehicle allowed a peaceful transition, which led to the eventual sale of our business to a third party. Without this in place, I can only imagine the potential hostilities that may have occurred. Now, in my role at Power Forward Group, I hope to share with my clients the lessons I learned as a member of a family business, and best practices to ensure that our children and grandchildren can continue to benefit as businesses pass in a healthy manner from generation to generation.
For Educational Purposes Only – Not to be relied upon as financial, tax, or legal advice.
Registered representative of, and securities and investment advisory services offered through Hornor, Townsend & Kent, LLC (HTK), Registered Investment Adviser, Member FINRA/SIPC, 600 Dresher Road, Horsham, PA 19044. 800-873-7637, www.htk.com. Power Forward Group is unaffiliated with HTK. HTK does not offer tax or legal advice. Always consult a qualified adviser regarding your individual circumstances. 7167643RG_Oct26
David Chabbott is a community member and financial advisor at Power Forward Group. He graduated Brooklyn College in 2001, and has spent the last 20+ years operating his small family business. David and his wife Aimee love getting involved in their children’s yeshivah, watching their 4 sons play basketball, and playing Barbie with their daughter.
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OUR COMMUNITY WELCOMES CHAMELEON FIRST RESPONSE TEAM
IN AN INSPIRING ACT OF UNITY, OUR COMMUNITY RECENTLY OPENED ITS DOORS TO AN EXTRAORDINARY GROUP OF ISRAEL’S ELITE SOLDIERS—MEMBERS OF CHAMELEON FIRST RESPONSE (CFR).
These brave combat veterans, led by Sean, Daniel, Amos, and Or, are in the United States on a very important mission: to heal and support their fellow soldiers while spreading awareness about the challenges they face.
The connection to our community began in April when Joey Antar and his friends met these soldiers during a trip to Israel organized by Shaare Zion. The bond they formed during that visit has remained strong, with Joey and his group staying in touch with the soldiers. When the CFR team needed a place to stay, Habayit welcomed them with open arms. They enjoyed a beautiful Friday night meal at the home of David and Adele Khaski, offering a warm, supportive environment for these warriors and showcasing the strength of our community’s solidarity.
On October 7th, life changed for thousands of soldiers and their comrades. Thrust into life-or-death situations, they continue to serve, often carrying the heavy burden of sleepless nights, sudden anger, and the invisible wounds of war. As one soldier shared, “I left home as one person and returned two weeks later as a changed individual. Normal
life felt distant. Sleep was elusive, anger flared without cause.”
Chameleon First Response (CFR) is not just an organization—it’s a lifeline dedicated to supporting Israel’s elite combat defenders. Their mission is clear: to help heal the wounded souls of their fellow soldiers, many of whom are battling severe PTSD both during and after their service.
“Talking to my fellow fighters, I realized we were all struggling with the same thing. Some lashed out in rage, lost jobs, divorced, or even took their own lives,” one soldier explained. “I made it my mission to help shed light on their struggles and provide a community of help and support. So that none of us will ever feel alone.”
CFR is now working to create a *Center for HealingBright Horizons* a sanctuary where soldiers can receive recurring resources they need to process their combat experiences and prevent PTSD from overwhelming them. This center will provide a peaceful retreat, using nature therapy and open-space activities to promote mental resilience and healing. “We are creating a New Center for Healing,” CFR leaders shared. “It will be a place where wounded soldiers
can find solace and recovery, where we will harness the power of nature to support their mental and emotional well-being.”
The creation of the Center for Healing cannot happen without your help. While the vision is clear, the resources to bring it to life are still lacking. Significant funding is desperately needed to ensure this sanctuary becomes a reality. Every contribution, large or small, brings us closer to offering Israel’s elite combat veterans the support and healing they deserve. Without your help, too many soldiers will continue to face their struggles alone.
Your donation can be the difference between isolation and recovery for these brave men and women. Please consider donating today to make this life-saving project a reality.
In a significant move to raise awareness for their vital cause, CFR has also been invited to speak on the Dr. Phil show. This opportunity will allow them to share their experiences and the importance of supporting soldiers grappling with the psychological impacts of combat, bringing muchneeded attention to their mission.
Together, as a community, we can support these heroes and help make a profound difference in the lives of those who have sacrificed so much for our safety and freedom.
If you would like to donate to this important cause,
please visit: https://my.givingtech.org/en/fundme/brighthorizon
For more information, visit: https://chameleons.org.il/ wp-content/uploads/2024/09/cbh.pdf
Commemorating October 7th Photo Album
AS WE MARK THE ONE-YEAR ANNIVERSARY OF THE OCTOBER 7TH ATTACK IN ISRAEL, OUR COMMUNITY STANDS TOGETHER IN REMEMBRANCE AND SOLIDARITY. WE ARE HONORED TO HIGHLIGHT THE MEANINGFUL TRIBUTES AND MEMORIAL EVENTS HELD BY OUR LOCAL SCHOOLS AND ORGANIZATIONS. THROUGH MOMENTS OF REFLECTION, HEARTFELT GATHERINGS, AND SHARED PRAYERS, THESE PHOTOS CAPTURE THE SPIRIT OF RESILIENCE, UNITY, AND HOPE THAT CONTINUES TO STRENGTHEN US. JOIN US IN COMMEMORATING THE LIVES LOST AND CELEBRATING THE UNWAVERING BOND THAT TIES OUR COMMUNITY TO ISRAEL AND TO EACH OTHER. LET THESE IMAGES REMIND US OF OUR SHARED COMMITMENT TO HONOR THE PAST, SUPPORT ONE ANOTHER, AND BUILD A BRIGHTER FUTURE.
Forge your own path to success
Managing Partner David Hoory shares how he turned his entrepreneurial dreams into a career helping others achieve financial security.
At 12, igniting my entrepreneurial spark with a small trading card booth unknowingly shaped my future, fueled my passion for business, and led me to become a life insurance agent. It’s been 20 years since I made that decision to pursue a career in financial services, and it’s led to a whirlwind journey of growth, challenges, and triumphs. Today, as Managing Partner of the New York Life Brooklyn General Office, I stand as a testament to the power of daring to bet on myself and New York Life. The Brooklyn General Office is made up of an award-winning team and proud to have some of the highest producing agents per capita across the company.
But success isn't just measured by these achievements it's about the impact we make on the lives of others. One of the most rewarding aspects of my position is seeing the impact a New York Life career can have on someone and their family. The career offers opportunities for both professional and personal growth. I get a great sense of fulfillment from my involvement with Sephardic Bikur Holim (SBH), assisting with the food pantry and offering career coaching.
Working at the Brooklyn General Office gives you the opportunity to serve our local Jewish communities in Monsey, Williamsburg, and Flatbush This spirit of unity and community extends beyond the work we do. In our office, we have a lot of mentor and mentee relationships, which helps us build unwavering support, collaboration, and shared motivation among the team.
I also take pride in the inclusive and accommodating nature of this vibrant workplace. We provide kosher meals at meetings, and there are nearby prayer services for our Jewish agents. Here, you don’t have to compromise your values or sacrifice what’s dear to you. While we proudly boast a large Jewish population in our office, it’s a melting pot of individuals from all walks of life. The rich diversity of backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives is what strengthens our team.
What’s most important to us is that we give you the opportunity to pursue your passions and chart your own path to success You can choose to be an agent, reveling in the autonomy to create your own schedule after completing all required trainings, while unlocking a world of significant income potential. Or you can progress into a managerial position, recruit and develop your own team of agents after you have met specified sales production, licensing and other internal requirements The choice is yours, and the possibilities are endless
If you’re an aspiring entrepreneur or interested in making a positive impact in your community, I’m here to tell you that you can build your own practice, make a difference, and achieve personal and professional success.
Through the comprehensive training and development programs, ongoing support from the company, and your unwavering commitment, you can cultivate a rewarding career centered around protecting what matters most to individuals and families in our community If you would like to learn more about what a career as a financial professional (agent) can offer you, then let’s talk.
David Hoory, CLF®, LUTCF® Managing Partner,
New York Life Insurance Company
dhoory@newyorklife.com
718-307-3400
New York Life is an Equal Opportunity Employer M/F/Disability/Veteran/Sexual Orientation/Gender Identity
PURPLE VEST MISSION
SAVING PEOPLE WITH DISABILITIES SINCE OCTOBER 7
“SAVING LIVES IS PRICELESS,” EXPLAINED JAMIE LASSNER, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF ACCESSIBILITY ACCELERATOR, WHEN HE RETURNED TO MAGEN DAVID YESHIVAH (MDYES) TO COMMEMORATE THE FIRST ANNIVERSARY OF THE TRAGIC EVENTS OF OCTOBER 7, 2023. LASSNER PREVIOUSLY SERVED AS DIRECTOR OF STUDENT LIFE AT THE SCHOOL.
At this visit he shared stories about community and resilience of those impacted and those supporting people in Israel touched by the ongoing crisis. He specifically shared details on Access Israel/ Accessibility Accelerator Purple Vest Mission that has been bringing people with disabilities and the elderly to safer places since that fateful morning more than a year ago. Reflecting on this poignant occasion, he shared, “It was good to be back with the MDY Family to share about the vital work we are doing and receive heartfelt comments and chizuk from the students, teachers, and former colleagues.”
THE GENESIS OF THE PURPLE VEST MISSION IN ISRAEL
Just 43 minutes after the first alarm sounded on Black Saturday, October 7, 2023, Access Israel, the collaborative partner of Accessibility Accelerator, activated the Purple Vest Mission, launching an emergency call center specifically designed to assist individuals with disabilities and the elderly. This initiative leverages the organization’s
The Administrative team of Access Israel/Accessibility Accelerator with Isaac and Michal Herzog, President and First Lady of the State of Israel after Rimon and Lassner delivered a presentation on the Purple Vest Mission.
Jamie stands with members of the US Army’s 82nd Airborne Division stationed in Rzeszow Poland who played an integral role in assisting Purple Vest Mission at the Przemysl, Poland refugee center.
extensive experience in emergency situations and continues to be used to evacuate many using customized accessible transportation vehicles. Since the launch, Access Israel has trained over 1,500 volunteers who form the backbone of the Purple Vest Mission.
The Purple Vest Mission is unique in its innovative approach to evacuation. They have helped people who are bedridden, who sit in a wheelchair, who are deaf and may not have heard the sirens, and those who may be blind or have difficulty getting to shelter quickly. Instead of transporting evacuees to crowded refugee centers lacking proper support for each person’s situation, volunteers relocate individuals to accessible hotels in safer cities while acknowledging the ongoing threat of air strikes.
The dedication of the Purple Vest Mission volunteers extends well beyond immediate evacuations as they maintain regular contact with evacuees to ensure their medical and everyday needs are met. As many evacuees express a desire to return home, Access Israel collaborates closely with local municipalities to guarantee safe returns and provide shelter for all. This long-term support is vital, fostering a sense of stability and security in a time of uncertainty.
A ‘QUIET DAY’ IN AKKO IN LATE SEPTEMBER 2024
Reflecting on a recent mission, Lassner shared, “I was humbled to have helped evacuate and to visit some of the individuals our Purple Vest Mission has helped.” These encounters reinforced his dedication to their mission and highlighted the bond shared between volunteers and the gratitude of those they assist. The personal stories of resilience and hope, such as that of a woman from Akko, illustrate the profound impact of their work.
Jamie had the opportunity to evacuate a woman from Akko on a relatively ‘quiet’ day alongside Chef Dani Portush, one of Israel’s premier caterers. Lassner describes him as “an angel with a remarkably caring heart.”
Since October 7, Dani quietly but emotionally shared, “I have driven over 3,300 miles across the roads of Israel in the Purple Vest Mission’s accessible vans, solely to evacuate and relocate individuals with disabilities to safer areas.” His unwavering dedication is palpable; it’s evident that he views this mission as a profound calling, one he believes Hashem chose him to fulfill.
Both Lassner and Portush firmly believe that G-d chose them to go into Akko on that specific ‘quiet day’ because the following day, 35 missiles from Lebanon were launched at Akko.
ADDRESSING CRITICAL NEEDS
As of October 7, 2024, the Purple Vest Mission has provided crucial support to 343 families, benefiting over 3,100 individuals with disabilities and the elderly. It still manages a multitude of daily inquiries for assistance. Michal Rimon,
Michal Rimon makes a presentation about Purple Vest Mission Global in front of former Israel Ambassador to UN Gilad Erdan and other dignitaries from various nations.
CEO of Access Israel and the visionary behind the Purple Vest Mission, passionately stated, “The names of those we have assisted are not just entries in an Excel spreadsheet; they are beloved individuals with unique needs. We address all types of disabilities—physical, cognitive, mental, invisible, and visible—ensuring comprehensive support.” The organizations’ holistic approach enables them to cater to a wide range of needs, fostering an environment where everyone can thrive.
Access Israel and their North American collaborative partner Accessibility Accelerator are dedicated to promoting accessibility and inclusion to enhance the quality of life for
Dani, Liat and Lilach, leaders of the Purple Vest Mission in Israel making a well-care visit to one of the many evacuees that were assisted by their team.
people with disabilities and the elderly and their Purple Vest Mission strives to ensure no one is left behind especially during emergent times. Purple was chosen as it is the global color for people with disabilities; worldwide, on December 3rd, the International Day of People with Disabilities, landmarks are lit up in purple.
SAVING A LIFE IS PRICELESS!
In his address to the MDY family, Lassner emphasized how essential the work of Purple Vest Mission is. He stated, “We have helped many, yet we have much work ahead of us in caring for those affected over the past year.” He highlighted a new program to help with Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder as it has impacted a significant percentage of Israel’s population. The profound effects of trauma cannot be understated, and Lassner’s commitment to mental health awareness reflects a broader understanding of the challenges individuals face in times of crisis. He affirmed the mission’s impact: “Saying ‘yes’ to help can be costly, but saving a life is priceless!”
Shirly Pinto, former Member of the Knesset and current Ambassador of Hasbara for the Israel Foreign Ministry, praised the organizations’ work: “Access Israel and its partner, Accessibility Accelerator, are beacons of hope in the aftermath of October 7, 2023. Their implementation of the Purple Vest Mission is crucial in saving the lives of individuals with disabilities amidst the turmoil. I am proud to collaborate with the Access Israel/Accessibility Accelerator Family.” Her remarks highlight the critical role these organizations play in advocating for some of the most vulnerable members of society.
Michal Rimon, Former Member of Knesset Shirly Pinto and Jamie Lassner make a solemn visit to Kibbutz Be’eri as part of their visit to the Gaza region.
A LEGACY OF SERVICE
Michal Rimon and Jamie Lassner share another unique bond – both of their commitments to support others is deeply rooted in the education they both received at the Ramaz Upper School. In honoring the promise to be there for their brothers and sisters, a lesson learned from Rabbi Haskel Lookstein, dear friend and Principal Emeritus at Ramaz, Rimon, Lassner, and their team were boots on the ground in refugee centers in Przemysl, Poland, just a few kilometers from the border with Ukraine, actively evacuating, triaging, settling, and providing humanitarian aid to thousands of Ukrainian people with disabilities. Since the outset of the war in Ukraine, the mission has assisted over 14,000 individuals with disabilities and their families, who otherwise would have been left behind.
ADVOCATING FOR ACCESSIBILITY
In addition to direct assistance, Access Israel actively advocates for legislation that ensures accessibility for individuals with disabilities globally. Rimon proudly stated, “Israel is the only country in the world where every service provider must undergo annual training on accessibility.” This pioneering approach underscores a commitment to creating an inclusive society where all individuals can participate fully. Access Israel also founded the Global Accessibility Inclusion Leaders’ Summit (GAILS), promoting collaboration among over 50 leaders in the field to drive global change. The organization aims to influence policy and create systemic change through these initiatives.
Dani Portush, a lead volunteer, on one of his evacuation assignments bringing happiness and warmth on every mission.
RECOGNITION AND FUTURE GOALS
The Purple Vest Mission’s efforts have garnered significant recognition, including the prestigious 2023 Genesis Prize and multiple awards from the United Nations and Anthem Awards. The Association for the Rights of Patients in Israel recently recognized the Purple Vest Mission as the top provider of extraordinary patient care since the Operation Iron Swords war began. These accolades reflect the dedication and hard work of the entire team and the lasting impact they have made in the community.
Looking to the future, Lassner remarked, “Our global team may be small, but it is mighty, and the impact of our work is immense.” He highlighted the urgent need for ongoing financial support, noting that approximately 21% of Israel’s population—over 2.3 million people—are individuals with disabilities. The challenge ahead is substantial, but the commitment to making a difference and saving lives remains unwavering.
JOIN US IN MAKING A DIFFERENCE
Together, the Purple
and its dedicated team embody the spirit of community,
and compas-
sion, ensuring that no one is left behind in times of crisis. As they continue this crucial work, they are deeply grateful to the community for supporting the Purple Vest Mission now and in the future. To view more details about the Purple Vest Mission visit https://accessibilityaccelerator.org/purple-vestmission
Vest Mission
hesed,
Jamie Lassner remembers October 7 with MDYES family.
Wearing her Purple Vest Shelly Romm, vice president of inter-national affairs at Access Israel and one of the lead Purple Vest Mission instructors, leads, hands-on outdoor training to ensure accuracy, collaboration, safety and comradery between rescuers.
A VERY REAL LOVE STORY
IN MEMORY OF OUR PARENTS, ALYCE & MAURICE LEVY A’H
IT’S BEEN SIX MONTHS SINCE WE’VE SAID GOODBYE TO OUR PARENTS. THERE HAS BEEN A LOT OF THINKING, REMINISCING, CRYING, AND LAUGHING. WE’VE SIFTED THROUGH OLD PHOTOGRAPHS AND MEMORIES, TRYING TO MAKE SENSE OF HOW WE GOT HERE. WHILE THE PAIN REMAINS STRONG AND VERY REAL, WE’VE ALSO COME TO REALIZE JUST HOW LUCKY WE WERE—AND STILL ARE. THIS TRIBUTE IS A REFLECTION ON THAT JOURNEY, HONORING THE VALUES OUR PARENTS IMPARTED AND THE CLOSENESS OF OUR FAMILY.
From a young age, Mom and Dad emphasized the importance of being polite, courteous, caring, and respectful. This wasn’t just any “run-of-the-mill” respect. If a friend or relative entered the room, we would jump up like jack-in-the-boxes to promptly kiss them on both cheeks. For friends or older cousins, we referred to them as “Aunt” or “Uncle.” Although it may have been considered “old fashioned”, it was a testament to the importance our parents placed on acknowledging and respecting those around us.
Proper etiquette was paramount, especially in how we set the table. I think Mom must have mentioned Emily Post at least once a week. We didn’t know why Emily Post got to
decide how you must set the table; she just did. This dedication to decorum instilled in us a sense of order and respect for tradition, even if it sometimes felt a bit strict.
The warmth and friendliness of our parents extended beyond our immediate family. Every housekeeper, worker, the concierge from Florida, hairdressers, manicurists, and healthcare aides showed immense care, sorrow, and willingness to help when they came to pay their condolences. This was a reflection of how warmly our parents treated everyone they met. Their kindness and respect left a lasting impact on those around them.
Our parents spent most of their time together. They would go shopping, run errands, and dine out together.
MICHELLE SAFDIEH, NICOLE LEVY & CLAUDINE BENNAIM
While it may not have been Dad’s favorite pastime to run errands, he was always eager to help and make sure Mom was taken care of. That was what mattered most to him—so much so that he was even known to carry her handbag for her.
One sentiment we constantly heard from visitors was how close our family was. We never thought it was extraordinary, but considering our parents spent over seven months each year in Florida for the past 20+ years, we realized how special it truly was. Our children are more like siblings than cousins, always looking forward to spending time together. This is a testament to the strong family bonds our parents nurtured. We once asked our dad how he felt about only having girls, mom said he actually prayed to have girls, and it showed. He was always the dad who would do the late night or early morning carpool. He loved taking care of and helping us and never asked for anything in return.
Visiting Grandma and Grandpa was never a chore for the kids. Each grandchild and their spouses had their own unique relationship with them. There was always laughter, recipes explained while something baked in the oven, discussions about current events and heartfelt interest in whatever was happening in their lives. And when the greatgrandchildren visited, they would drop whatever they were doing. Nothing gave them more joy than those visits.
Friends liked to compare their love to a romantic movie, calling it the greatest love story. We would laugh because, even when they bickered, it was comical. But beneath the humor, we always knew they shared a great love and deep respect for each other.
During their last days, each was more worried about the other than about their own health. Watching them say their final goodbyes over FaceTime was torturous, yet deeply heartwarming. The love they had for each other was palpable.
Mom would always tell us that she would never be able to live without our dad. He was everything to her. When dad started to decline, we were so afraid to tell her. Somehow, deep down, we got the feeling that she already knew. Although she wasn’t critical or terminal, she passed quietly, after the whole family had come to visit, on Sunday, Purim day.
Navigating between two hospitals was incredibly difficult for us. It was extremely hard to be in both places at once. But then Ronnie and Sammy, their sons-in-law, immediately sat by Dad’s bedside, sleeping there for two days until Mom’s funeral. Dad passed away the day after Mom’s funeral, but he made sure to wait for his grandson Isaac to return from Israel.
We were so fortunate to have the entire family together with the support and guidance of Rabbi Shelby. It was the most beautiful, special closure we could have hoped for and we will always be forever grateful to the Rabbi. Their
grandson Aaron had the opportunity to read Shir HaShirim for each of them, which was the most moving experience. We are very grateful to the Rabbi for giving us this gift.
As we continue to navigate this new chapter, we hold onto the enduring legacy of our parents’ values and the strength of our family bond. We feel fortunate for the time spent together and the lasting impact our parents had on everyone who knew them. Their love and teachings will continue to guide us, reminding us of how truly lucky we are. And although it took us all these months to process the enormity of our loss, there is also a feeling of peace, knowing they are together, still looking out for each other. Not a day goes by that they aren’t mentioned and praised for the life lessons they imparted to us and tried so very hard to prepare us for.
With Rosh Hashanah approaching, we are so grateful to have all mom’s recipe cards (approx. 30 boxes). It just would’ve helped to have the Berakhot narrowed down to which recipe was truly her favorite, and some accurate ingredient measurements!
We consider ourselves extremely fortunate to have them as our role models. Everyone should be as fortunate to have a love story like theirs. May their memories continue to have an abundance of blessings.
Michelle Safdieh, Nicole Levy & Claudine Bennaim are members of the Sephardic Community.
Twelve people, the Kassab and Shama families, in an early group to show up at the Shamosh House in 1950.
ESCAPE THROUGH ISKENDERUN TURKEY
HOW THE SHAMOSH FAMILY HELPED REFUGEES
SARINA ROFFÉ
THE SHAMOSH FAMILY OF ISKENDERUN BEGAN HELPING REFUGEES IN THE LATE 1930S WHEN THEY HELPED EASTERN EUROPEANS ESCAPING NAZI GERMANY. AFTER WORLD WAR II AND THE CREATION OF THE STATE OF ISRAEL, THE FAMILY HELPED SYRIAN REFUGEES ESCAPE THE PERSECUTION AND RESTRICTIONS PLACED ON JEWS. BETWEEN HAKHAM YAAKOV AND HIS ELDEST SON, HARUN SHAMOSH, MORE THAN 3500 PEOPLE WERE ASSISTED AFTER THEY LEFT SYRIA. THIS IS THEIR STORY.1
Iskenderun is a city along the Mediterranean coast, just northwest of Syria. Hakham Moses Tawil sent Hakham Yaakov Shamosh there from Aleppo to serve the community in 1932. He was the rabbi, the hazzan and the shokhet. After a few years he went back to Aleppo, and brought back his bride, Mazal Esses. Their son, Harun Shamosh, was born in 1936, the eldest of eight children. Until his death in 1970, Hakham Yaakov arranged for many escapees to get to Israel. Eventually, his son Harun took over the mission, along with other family members. Iskenderun played a big role in helping Jews who escaped over the mountains from Aleppo into Turkey.
There were many restrictions for Syrian Jews. One of them was the restriction on travel, and the fact that you
could not travel more than three kilometers from your home without permission. Jobs were lost and there were boycotts on their businesses. Many people tried to escape. Doing so involved baksheesh (bribe), smugglers and a dangerous escape route. For the Jews of Aleppo, the nearest border was through the mountains to Turkey. Since Hakham Yaakov had come from Aleppo, many families knew him and found their way to his home in Iskenderun.
In 1948, Syria only gave passports to its citizens. From about 1950-1960, some paid the Iranian consulate for passports. Those who were able to get Iranian passports went to Iskenderun and took a ship from there to Haifa. The ship only came once every 21 days.
Syrian Jews started to show up at Hakham Yaakov’s
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home in 1950. A group of 12 people from two families managed to get over the border into Turkey and came to his house with no money, filthy, dirty from traversing the mountains.
Hakham Yaakov arranged for them to get cleaned up and got a bus to take them to Istanbul – a 20-hour drive. They had to be escorted by a family member because they had no papers and only spoke Arabic, not Turkish. Hakham Yaakov found a place for them to stay in an old hotel. Hakham Yaakov went to the rabbinate in Istanbul for guidance. Then the refugees were taken to the Israeli consulate and arrangements were made for them to go to Israel. This process of using the Iranian passports went on for four to five years.
The rabbi often invited Jewish people to their home for Shabbat. One week there was a couple who claimed to be engineers working at a local cement factory. Hakham Yaakov’s wife was suspicious. As it turned out they were Mossad agents looking for a partner to help the Jews leaving Syria, Hakham Yaakov became that person. The agent instructed Hakham how to get people over the border.
Those who escaped Syria had no entry visa because they came through the mountains and crossed the borders illegally. Before individuals could leave Turkey, a person needed an entry visa. The issue of getting entry visas posed a problem.
Hakham Yaakov went to the police and asked what to do, explaining they could not go back and were refugees. From about 1954 until 1975, there was an arrangement whereby the police – for a fine of 70 lira – would issue entry visas good for 30 days to those who escaped. With the entry visa, the refugees could get a laissez passe (travel papers) in Istanbul and then go to Israel.
Each time a group of escapees showed up at his door,
or another family member would take them by bus to Istanbul.
After Hafez al-Assad became President of Syria in 1971, many families were escaping. Harun and the family were busy. Harun became well known for his work, not just his connections kept him safe.
Harun worked with trusted smugglers who got Aleppan Jews across the border into Turkey. They often used a code, like half of a photo or one earring. If the smuggler had the other half, he could be trusted not to say Harun’s name. The signal was always different.
Jack Imir, Harun’s son, remembers a Turkish Muslim smuggler who was often at their home. He smuggled goods across the border in both directions. He was sent to homes in Aleppo and started to bring people to Turkey. The smuggler was trusted, and he brought families several times a week. As more and more people were leaving in the 1970s, the Shamoshs were able to recruit more smugglers to assist. The smugglers knew what they were doing and were loyal to Harun and worked for them for many years.
Some people had the funds to pay smugglers on their own and others had to be helped with money. A lot of money was used for bribes or baksheesh. All involved wanted a piece of the action and Mossad bribed many government officials.2
Usually, people were smuggled over the border at midnight, when it was dark and the guards were more relaxed. The process was that the smugglers told the refugees only to wear the clothes on their back. They were not to bring any
Harun
Harun blessed by the Chief Rabbi of Turkey 2016
ID Card
identification. The smugglers were often smuggling other items as well.
Border patrols were looking for smuggling of merchandise, not people. Smugglers were always paid in cash. Harun and his family said the refugees arrived at his home in the middle of the night, about 3 a.m. They walked for days in the mountains, in mud, and arrived at his home filthy and exhausted from the trip. Babies were carried and drugged to keep them quiet. They arrived hungry and needed to be fed.
Occasionally, if someone was caught at the border by the Turkish border patrol, the smugglers would run away, tell Harun Shamosh what happened and he would go to get them released. This happened many times. One family that he helped get released, met him decades later in Israel.
The Shamoshs bought the refugees new clothing and provided shelter until arrangements were made for them to go to Istanbul and then Israel. Shamosh tried to make same day or next day arrangements if he could. At times, the people were coming almost every day and each family member helped out. Harun’s wife, son and daughters often made the trip to Istanbul or did the shopping for clothing.
A separate operation began at the behest of Eddie “Whitey” Sitt from Brooklyn, New York. Hakham Shaul Cohen of Turkey was a friend of Sitt and told him what Harun was doing. In 1971, Sitt went to Turkey and offered to help. Sitt wanted the refugees to come to New York. By the mid to late 1970s, a separate operation developed whereby Sitt sent signals for families that wanted to go to New York. These were people who had families in New York and had been separated. Those refugees who wanted to go to New York had to pay their own way. The Jewish Agency
only paid smugglers for the families going to Israel.
By 1979, the 70 lira fee became a thing of the past. About 1980, they switched the operation to Antakya, where the Jemals, Esther’s family lived. Iskenderun became too dangerous for the refugees. Antakya is about 35 miles from Iskenderun but closer to Aleppo. Refugees went to the police station in Antakya, declared themselves to be refugees from Syria who wanted to go to Israel. The police sent them to a State Department office and Harun Shamosh was asked to handle their transportation to Israel.
By 1986, there were fewer people escaping Syria. But Mossad wanted him to stay until 1992. Harun would meet Mossad agents in the Dan Tel Aviv and Harun would give them reports. There are 60 years of reports about the Shamosh family and their work with the Syrians who escaped.
Harun and Esther emigrated to New York in 1992, the year of the exodus when Syrian President Hafez al-Assad lifted the prohibition on travel.
1 Based on interviews with Harun and Esther Shamosh with daughter Rutie Haser on April 2024; Jack Imir on December 31, 2023; Harun and Esther Shamosh with daughter Nurit Sousson on June1, 2024 and October 9, 2024
2 Author has no confirmation from Mossad. However multiple sources interviewed for this book noted the role of Mossad in Turkey and in Lebanon for assisting escaping Syrian Jews.
A genealogist and historian, Sarina Roffé is the author of Branching Out from Sepharad (Sephardic Heritage Project, 2017). A version of this article will be included in her upcoming book: Syria - Paths to Freedom. Sarina holds a BA in Journalism, and MA in Jewish Studies and an MBA.
Letter sent from Consul of Turkey to Mossad to send Harun to Beirut – reference letter August 1, 1962
Harun Shamosh in his Brooklyn home
SHIFTING STRUGGLES INTO STRENGTHS
THE POWER OF GRATITUDE
RABBI EZRA MAX
AS WE TRANSITION FROM THE JOYOUS SPIRIT OF SUCCOTH TO THE WINTER SEASON, THE SECULAR CALENDAR REMINDS US TO FOCUS ON AN EVENING OF THANKSGIVING. IT’S ANOTHER OPPORTUNITY TO REFLECT WITH THE POWER OF GRATITUDE IN OUR LIVES—BOTH PERSONALLY AND PROFESSIONALLY. HAVE YOU ACKNOWLEDGED YOUR STRENGTHS LATELY? DO YOU REALIZE HOW OFTEN STRESS AND STRUGGLE LEADS TO MORE STRENGTH?
Gratitude is not merely a reaction to positive events but a proactive stance that can elevate our experiences, helping us recognize the beauty and abundance around us, even during cold winter nights and challenging times.
BUILDING ON PAST STRENGTHS
Every journey is filled with both struggles and victories. In fact, many of our strengths emerge from overcoming obstacles. The Mishnah teaches us, “Who is rich? One who is happy with his lot”–Because putting in effort always matters (Pirkei Abot 4:1). This wisdom encourages us to cultivate appreciation for our circumstances, however difficult they may seem, as this always lays the groundwork for our future successes.
CLIENT STORY
A recent client was a business owner with a mid-sized company that operates multiple product lines. This past year has been particularly challenging for him, especially regarding tension with a key employee over the direction of the business and lowered profitability. He reached out for guidance, wanting to navigate these interpersonal complexities and find a pathway forward.
TURNING STRUGGLES INTO CLARITY
What initially seemed like insurmountable struggles, is actually becoming the catalyst for a new level of clarity for him. Through careful reflection and strategic conversations, he has identified the essential focus areas for his business. The chaos he faced forced him to hone in on the core
strengths of his company and clarify the personnel decisions that would align with his strengths.
As he navigated these tensions, he discovered that the struggles were not merely obstacles but rather stepping stones toward a clearer vision. This newfound clarity not only provided sanity amidst the overwhelming stress but also illuminated a path toward increased profitability. By embracing gratitude for the lessons learned through hardship, he transformed his approach, allowing him to move forward with confidence.
CELEBRATING WINS AND MILESTONES
Acknowledging and celebrating our wins, both big and small–is crucial in maintaining momentum. It’s easy to get caught up in the grind and overlook our achievements, but recognizing these milestones fosters a culture of appreciation, resources and motivates us to keep pushing forward.
As we cultivate gratitude in our work environments, we foster a more positive and productive atmosphere. This not only benefits us as leaders but also enhances our relationships with our teams, allowing everyone to contribute to and share in the success. More important than our work, we must get better at being more grateful and appreciative at home with our families.
PRACTICAL STEPS FOR GRATITUDE AND CLARITY
1. Reflect on Your Journey: Take a moment to recognize the challenges you’ve faced and how they’ve shaped your strengths. Reflect on the lessons learned and the growth experienced through adversity.
2. Celebrate Milestones: Make it a habit to celebrate both personal and professional wins. Recognizing achievements, no matter how small, helps maintain motivation and encourages a culture of gratitude.
3. Communicate with Your Team: Share your vision and the steps you’re taking to move forward. Transparency fosters trust and connection, allowing your team to feel valued and engaged.
4. Engage in Gratitude Practices: Incorporate more gratitude practices into your daily routine–whether through journaling, meditation, or expressing appreciation to your team.
5. Seek Support: Don’t hesitate to reach out to a coach or a mentor to help navigate challenges and gain clarity. The support of others can be invaluable in maintaining focus and direction.
CONCLUSION: LIVING IN ABUNDANCE
Let’s make Thanksgiving a regular event. Be more conscious every morning when we acknowledge Hashem’s blessing in our lives and the world in Mizmor Letodah–“Enter His gates with thanksgiving, and His courts with praise; give thanks to Him, bless His name “Tehillim (Psalms 100:4): Let’s take the time regularly to acknowledge the abundance in our lives and the strengths we’ve developed through overcoming challenges. Embracing gratitude will help us foster deeper connections with ourselves, our families, and our teams.
Consider how the struggles you’ve faced have led to your current strengths. What Current struggles might be the key to unlocking more of your strengths? Let’s commit to celebrating our wins and building on them as we navigate the path ahead.
May this season be filled with personal growth, meaningful connections, and the abundance of Hashem’s blessings!
Rabbi Ezra Max, PCC, MHMP, Xchange Guide & Creator of “The Max Method” assists businesses and professionals deal with stress and achieve success. Rabbi Max has witnessed 20 years of results helping executives, parents and teens overcome struggles, improve communication and thrive. He lives in New York with his wife and five children.
HOW TO OVERCOME GUILT AND SHAME WHEN YOU EAT MORE THAN PLANNED HOW TO OVERCOME GUILT AND SHAME WHEN YOU EAT MORE THAN PLANNED
DO YOU FEEL GUILTY AND ASHAMED WHEN YOU JUST EAT A DROP MORE THAN YOU PLANNED? DO THOSE EMOTIONS MAKE MATTERS WORSE AND CAUSE YOU TO EAT UNTIL YOU ARE UNCOMFORTABLE AND TOO FULL?
When you overeat, there are many healthy ways to deal with it — both directly after it happens and in the following days — to prevent it from happening again.
WHY YOU SOMETIMES OVEREAT
Having an all-or-nothing mindset around food typically comes from a place of wanting to eat nourishing foods that fuel our bodies, but being tempted by high calorie and high fat foods like pizza and french fries. When we do restrict the foods we eat, we often end up overindulging later on.
Other reasons include not eating enough during the day, not keeping blood sugar stable, and not consuming enough protein, fiber, carbs, fat — nutrients.
HOW TO DEAL WITH OVEREATING
Luckily, there are lots of actions you can take to feel better ASAP, plus some important things to avoid.
Don’t: Fast or skip your next meal.
Many people are tempted to skip their next meal or even fast after overeating. Fasting shouldn’t be an option. Our bodies require energy from food to survive. Plus, skipping a meal or fasting can actually have the opposite of the intended effect and can lead to bingeing, a more extreme form of overeating. When we restrict what we eat, it sets us up to overindulge and possibly binge more.
Do: Make your next meal healthy and satisfying. Eat what you want when you’re hungry and stop when you’re full. Following your hunger and satiety signals isn’t always easy (especially in the beginning), but it’s key to maintaining your happy weight. If you aren’t ready to listen to your hunger cues stick to a schedule and eventually you will learn how to trust your body and mind.
Don’t: Exercise really hard to “make up for it.” You don’t have to burn the calories after you have
LAURA SHAMMAH MS, RDN
indulged. An intense workout will stress out your body even more.
DO: TAKE A WALK.
Though intense exercise might be a no-go, walking outdoors is actually a great idea in the few hours that follow overeating. Being outside lowers your stress levels. A 10 minute walk is just enough to get food moving along the digestive tract.
DON’T: TRY TO DETOX.
No juice cleanses need apply. Detoxing implies that you’ve exposed your body to toxins. Unless you’ve downed a bottle of arsenic, your body is fully capable of handling what you put in it. Overeating at one meal or even for an entire day does not warrant restricting your food intake in the days that follow. So move on, and stop punishing yourself. Stop trying to make up for what you’ve done by intentionally under-eating or by trying an unsafe detox.
DO: DRINK (A REASONABLE AMOUNT OF) WATER.
Sipping on water may help flush out some of the sodium you’ve consumed, but it’s important not to overdo it, as it may make you feel even more full. Stick with four to eight ounces after a large meal.
DON’T: SAY “FORGET IT!”
The most common mistake I see people make with regard to overeating is developing a throw-your-hands-inthe-air attitude after they indulge. I often see cheat meals, for example, turn into cheat days and even cheat weeks because of guilt.
DO: THINK ABOUT YOUR NEXT MEAL.
It may seem counterintuitive, but if you think about eating healthy and balanced foods for your next meal, you can get back on track immediately.
HOW TO PREVENT OVEREATING
Knowing what to do when you overeat and feel sick is great, but knowing how to stop it before it happens is even better. While you might overeat on purpose sometimes (on your birthday, at a party, or at an amazing restaurant), here’s how to avoid it when you really don’t want to eat more than you planned.
DON’T: LABEL FOODS AS GOOD & BAD.
A common mistake is viewing foods as black and white — healthy and unhealthy. This often results in a poor relationship with food. People who see food this way often find themselves on a constant diet roller coaster, losing and regaining weight. Labeling food as good or bad can become a restriction, and restrictions can eventually give way to going overboard.
DO: REMEMBER THAT THERE’S ROOM FOR INDULGENCES IN A HEALTHY DIET.
It’s not realistic or healthy to be on a diet every day of your life. Try to shift the way you think from a dieting mindset to an ‘all foods fit’ mindset. This will make it easier to break the cycle of overeating and restricting. When you do this, the temptation to eat more than you really need becomes less intense.
DO: SPREAD YOUR FOOD INTAKE OUT.
Try to eat enough real, whole foods with balanced macronutrients (protein, fat, and carbohydrates) at each meal. This will keep you full and satisfied for far longer, which can help prevent cravings and overeating. When you learn to space out your food intake throughout the day you’ll feel happier and healthier.
DON’T: SUFFER IN SILENCE IF YOU’RE STRUGGLING.
Seek guidance from a therapist or registered dietitian if you’ve felt trapped in a binge/starve cycle for a long time and it’s affecting your personal and professional life. Overeating is common and can simply be a product of your emotions, circumstances, or environment. Talking to the right person can give you your life back.
Using food to mask different emotions is never the answer, so if you’re reaching for food out of boredom, loneliness, frustration or stress, work to resolve the uncomfortable root emotion. Keeping a journal of what you eat and your emotions at the time, can help you be more in tune with your body.
Patience is the key to it all. I wish there was a quick fix, but that’s not reality. Be aware, be smart and enjoy what makes you feel good in moderation — in a no guilt zone.
Laura Shammah MS, RDN has a masters degree in health and nutrition and is a registered dietitian. She has been operating her own private practice in both New York and NJ for over 20 years. She is happily married and has four children.
A SURPRISE IN MONTREAL – AN SSC RABBI
My husband and I decided to take a few days and visit Montreal, a place he always wanted to go. It’s an easy city to go when you are Jewish, lots of synagogues and kosher restaurants to choose from. It was an easy trip; we had no plans. We took a tour of the old Jewish part of Montreal and the guide mentioned that the first Jews in Montreal were Sephardim. As we were walking, I googled the Sephardic synagogue and sent a quick message to Rabbi Yehoshua Ellis, the rabbi of the Spanish Portuguese Synagogue in Montreal. I identified myself as a Sephardic historian who was the cousin of Rabbi Sam Kassin.
Imagine my surprise when within minutes I got a call from Rabbi Ellis, praising Rabbi Kassin, as he had been a student at Shehebar Sephardic Center (SSC) in Jerusalem and had received his semicha from the yeshiva. Rabbi Ellis
had heard of me and set aside time in his day to provide David and I with a Surprise in Montreal tour of the synagogue as well as information about the community.
Shearith Israel – the Spanish and Portuguese Synagogue began in Montreal in 1768 and is over 250 years old. The current building opened in 1947 and is the fourth building location. The synagogue has a coat of arms. The current location is part of a complex that includes a day school, community center, Jewish public library and Jewish hospital.
The synagogue has over a hundred Sefer Torahs, one of which is from Sedon (Lebanon) and is hundreds of years old. Many are family Torahs from Baghdad and other places. The synagogue has one Sefer Torah that is over 300 years old from Iraq and it came to the synagogue after the second Iraq war.
SARINA ROFFÉ
The front of Shearith Israel – the Spanish and Portuguese Synagogue
The Spanish Portuguese Synagogue has a main sanctuary and Bet Midrash, which has an Aron Kodesh that dates to 1835 and is used by the Lebanese congregants on Shabbat. They have minyans three times a day. The congregation has about 600-700 member families. There are other Sephardic synagogues in Montreal. Shearith Israel – the Spanish and Portuguese Synagogue may be the biggest Sephardic congregation in Canada. Rabbi Ellis estimated that 30 percent of Montreal’s Jewish com-
munity was Sephardic, yet they consumed 70 percent of the kosher food
I asked Rabbi Ellis, who is Ashkenazic and born in Kansas City, how he came to attend the SSC. Rabbi Ellis said “I was a volunteer in Poland for the JDC where I met my wife. I saw they needed a rabbi. I was looking for a yeshiva and a friend was studying at the SSC. I met with Rabbi Kassin and he said ‘Why are you here?’ I said I want to be a rabbi in Poland. And he said “ok, you’re in,
The main sanctuary of Shearith Israel – the Spanish and Portuguese Synagogue
Rabbi Abraham De Sola was an important rabbi in the history of the community.
Rabbi Meldoal De Sola
Rabbi Ellis is in full robes and he stands before the Hechal
Rabbi Yehoshua Ellis explains the provenance of many of the Sefer Torahs of the synagogue.
but you have to start tomorrow.’ We had the exact same vision, which was to go out and be a rabbi who can keep Jews Jewish. Thank G-d, all of us who got to learn from Rabbi Peretz are in awe of how blessed we are, his Emunah, and his amazing depth of Torah knowledge. So after I got my semicha, I went to Poland for 13 years.”
Rabbi Ellis lived in Jerusalem for six years in Nahalot and got to go to many synagogues. He said every synagogue is a jewel in the crown of the king. As the rabbi for one year in Montreal, the father of two feels the Kehilla has a very unique synagogue, both emotionally and spiritually very warm.
Rabbi Ellis told us the history of the congregation. He showed me the portraits of several important rabbis of the congregation. Rabbi Abraham De Sola was the rabbi from 1847-1882. He was also a professor of Oriental Studies at McGill University. He opened a session of Congress in the United States with a prayer. Originating from a large renowned family of rabbis and scholars, De Sola was recognized as one of the foremost leaders of Orthodox Judaism in North America during the latter half of the nineteenth century. His son Meldola De Sola was the rabbi from 1882 – 1918.
In 1970, the Iraqis began moving here and it changed the culture of the congregation. The presidents that lined the walls included Bitton, Mohgraby, Levy, Benchimol, Elbaz, Shemie and Mann, many of them Iraqi. Many Moroccan Jews also came.
Regarding Rabbi Kassin and the SSC, Rabbi Ellis noted “The institution he built at Midrash Sephardi, is a wonderful institution. He gave me an opportunity. As students we were all inspired to make Jewish life livable for Am Israel. We spread Judaism and do what we can to teach Torah. We learned to spread Judaism of the middle path, making life livable and meaningful, yet staying true to tradition. We keep Am Israel a bit holier and more connected and to bring Judaism to more Jews.”
As to Rabbi Kassin, he said “He’s not interested in setbacks. He is only interested in how to move forward. We had the same vision and I am thankful for the opportunity he gave me.”
A genealogist and historian, Sarina Roffé is the author of Branching Out from Sepharad (Sephardic Heritage Project, 2017). She is researching a new book: Syria - Paths to Freedom. Sarina holds a BA in Journalism, and MA in Jewish Studies and an MBA.
Abraham de Sola delivering the opening prayer at the House of Representatives on Tuesday, January 9, 1872
Synagogue Coat of Arms
Bet Midrash used by the Lebanese on Shabbat. Hechal is from 1835.
THE A, B, C’S OF ANXIOUS BEHAVIORAL CHILDREN
WHEN ONE HEARS THE WORD ANXIETY OR THINKS OF AN ANXIOUS CHILD THE THOUGHTS THAT IMMEDIATELY COME TO MIND MAY BE CRYING, CLINGY, FEARFUL CHILDREN. WHAT WE RARELY THINK OF ARE BEHAVIORAL, ANGRY AND FRUSTRATED CHILDREN. I’D LIKE TO REFER TO THESE CHILDREN AS ANXIOUS, BEHAVIORAL CHILDREN WHOSE BEHAVIOR PROBLEMS ARE STEMMING FROM THEIR ANXIETY.
Anxiety comes in many different forms. The anxious, behavioral child may exhibit temper tantrums and angry outbursts that may seemingly come out of nowhere. The anxious, behavioral child may hit other children in school or throw their books. Teachers will naturally respond with behavior modification techniques such as sticker charts for good behavior and negative consequences such as time outs for bad behavior. Schools may specifically assign that child to “stricter” teachers in
the future with the hope that firm teachers will keep those children’s behaviors in check. Ultimately, however, the root cause of the behaviors in these anxious, behavioral children gets overlooked and furthermore, many anxious, behavioral children will respond with more behavior problems when faced with rigid, authoritarian teachers. Therefore, it is essential to be able to recognize the signs of the anxious, behavioral child in order to support them properly. With most forms of anxiety, there is a key component
ERIKA LEVAVI
of a sense of insecurity. Children who externalize that sense of insecurity become fearful of things around them; they don’t trust that the environment around them is safe and will mostly exhibit fearful kinds of behaviors. In response, these children are met with reassurance and warmth in order to help calm their fears. In contrast, children who internalize insecurity, become insecure about their own competence in the face of challenges and as a result will often exhibit low frustration tolerance. Low frustration tolerance is an inability to sit with frustration. Anxious children who internalize their insecurity, are not confident in their ability to get through their frustration safely; they literally feel unsafe in the face of frustration. In response, as toddlers they may yell, scream, hit others or tantrum when they feel frustrated playing with a toy or trying to put on their shoes or pick up food with their fork. A child who should be having fun playing with their toys for example, will instead try to break their toys and possibly alienate other children by their “rough” playing. As they get older and are in classrooms, they may begin to feel frustrated when trying to complete a math problem or perhaps in anticipation of tomorrow’s math test. These children have developed insecure feelings about themselves and so they lash out at the world around them. In contrast to anxious,
fearful children who are reassured and shown warmth in the face of fear, anxious, behavioral children are often met with rigid consequences and their feelings about their insecurities in themselves are often neglected.
Anxious, behavioral children need the same warmth, reassurance and encouragement that anxious, fearful children need; they need the same flexibility and understanding that anxious, fearful children need. Yet, they don’t get it. Parents of anxious, behavioral children may have a hard time advocating for their child properly since schools and teachers often have a hard time recognizing the signs of the anxious, behavioral child and schools and teachers may understandably, already be frustrated with the behavior problems exhibited by these children. Recognizing the signs of an anxious, behavioral child early is imperative in order to help boost their confidence in themselves and learn to believe in their ability to conquer their world successfully and unlock their full potential without fear.
Erika Levavi is a School Psychologist and mother of 3 children. She has been working at the Yeshivah of Flatbush High School, of which she is an alumna, for over 15 years.
CONGRATULATIONS
Mabrouk, Mazal Tov
BIRTHS
Rosie & David J Cohen - Girl
Linda & Mark Izhak - Boy
Eliane & Sam Sabin - Boy
Cynthia & Simon Salame - Boy
Inez and Mickey Laniado - Boy
Nicole and Abie Rishty - Girl
Esther and Jack Sayegh - Girl
Danielle and Albert Hazan - Boy
Sarah and Abie Sitt - Boy
Sylvia and Michael Cabasso - Girl
Frieda and Ikey Yedid - Boy
Marlene and Abraham Shalam - Boy
Victoria and Saul Cattan - Girl
Rebecca and Abie Tobal - Girl
Sarah and Sam Faks - Girl
Jacqueline and Joey Erdos - Girl
Marly and Jason Balassiano - Girl
Sophia and Nathan Feldman - Boy
Celia and Joe Jemal - Boy
Jaclyn and Albert Djemal - Boy
Rickie and Michael Manopla - Girl
Sally and Marc Nardea - Girl
Paulette and Jacob Jemal - Girl
Michelle and Jack Terzi - Boy
Michelle and Mitchell Parker - Boy
Danielle and Jacob Ashkenazie - Boy
Karen and Morris Sutton - Girl
Raquel and Aaron Vogel - Girl
Rose and Max Shalam - Boy
Renee and Stephen Dabah - Boy
Cookie and Marc Esses - Boy
Sari and Rabbi Yaacov Soleimani - Boy
Natalie and Isaac Bijou - Boy
Esther and Meiro Qubrusi - Boy
Grace and David Warren - Boy
Margie and Joe Betesh - Boy
Yvonne and Rafe Tawil - Girl
Rachel and Ezra Mansour - Girl
Eliane and Michael Mehani - Boy
Sheila and Morris Adjmi - Girl
Mollie and Charles Wahba - Girl
Rosie and David Bawabeh - Boy
Sara and Evan Terzi - Boy
Victoria and Nathan Laniado - Boy
Gila and Shlomi Dayan - Girl
BIRTHS
Miriam and Jack Gindi - Girl
Lorraine and Victor Shalam - Boy
Juliette and Eddie Setton - Boy
Bridgette and Max Zeevi - Boy
Sarah and Abe Seruya - Boy
Shirley and Joseph Ash - Boy
Nina and Steven Safdieh - Girl
Bella and Jack Terzi - Boy
Arlette and Eli Mosseri - Boy
ENGAGEMENTS
Marlene Levy to Michael Salem
Miriam Cohen to Jimmy Nawlo
Raizy Perles to Abie Sebag
Rachel Chalouh to Ikey Nahmoud
Zahava Shalouh to David Pinchas
Renee Mizrahi to Max Chera
Sophia Zeitoune to David Nigri
Karen Raz to Ariel Ohayon
Sofia Swaid to Elie Faks
Molly Elo to Selim Sabbagh
Leah Alhalabi to Joey Balanka
Rivkah Cohen to Ikey Betesh
Julie Bukai to Jack Hamadani
WEDDINGS
Bonnie Melamed to Fred Salem
Sophia Maleh to Charlie Zeitounie
If you would like to add an event, please send it to: editor@imageusa.com
Emma K amagi 917-743-2020 realtoremma@yahoo com
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East 10 (L-M) – 20’ WIDE SOLD 1
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APT FOR RENT: LUX BRAND NEW/PRIME AVE U/LOW E
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AVE
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492-494 Ave P – Two adjacent buildings, 1st floor store, 2nd floor 4 beds apt, 2-1 beds apt. Call Melanie Kishk/Century 21 Realty 917-2884001
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West Long Branch, NJ
For Sale or Rent: 4,000 sq ft office space in West Long Branch, NJ, featuring parking for 12 cars, additional handicap parking, and wheelchair accessibility. Conveniently located near Route 36. The property includes a separate 2-bedroom house and an additional rear lot ideal for development. Offered at $1.99M.
APTS FOR RENT BKLYN
369 Quentin – Luxury rental apt units. 2-3 bdrms, doorman, gym, elevators, rooftop, outdoor rec room, parking. Call Melanie Kishk/ Century 21 Realty 917-288-4001
HOUSE
FOR SALE BKLYN
54 Village Rd S – 2 fam home, 3 units, 8 beds, 3 baths, beautifully renovated, 25x87.5 lot, private parking. Call Melanie Kishk/Century 21 Realty 917-288-4001
2703 Ave S – 48x95 ft lot, 2 beds, 3 baths, R3-2 Zoned, parking garage, spacious backyard. Call Melanie Kishk/Century 21 Realty 917-2884001
1138 East 9th St – Legal 2 fam, 36x100, 2,436 Sqft living space, private drive, central air. Call Melanie Kishk/Century 21 Realty 917-2884001
110 Ocean Pkwy #6A – Beautifully renovated, 1 bed, 1 bath, 70 sqft, brand-new kitchen, ample closet space. Call Melanie Kishk/Century 21 Realty 917-288-4001
Ave L/East 30’s – 3 story Victorian residence. 7 beds, 4.5 baths, kosher kitchen, private driveway, customer built. Call Melanie Kishk/Century 21 Realty 917-288-4001
1595 East 13th St – 2 fam, 5 beds, 3 baths, unbeatable location, corner lot, private driveway. Call Melanie Kishk/Century 21 Realty 917-2884001
1141 East 10th St – Beautifully ren home. 3 beds, 3.5 baths, 2 guest rooms, basement, fireplace Jacuzzi. Call Melanie Kishk/Century 21 Realty 917-288-4001
HOUSE FOR SALE BKLYN
2071 East 2nd St – Best block, 26x100 lot, 3 beds, 2.5 baths, private parking, backyard, den. Call Melanie Kishk/Century 21 Realty 917-2884001
Ave O/East 7th St – 2 fam, 34x100, private driveway, spacious backyard. Call Melanie Kishk/Century 21 Realty 917-288-4001
346 Ave O – 3 fam, 9 beds, 5.5 baths, 40x100 lot. Call Melanie Kishk/Century 21 Realty 917288-4001
239 Lake St – Starter home, attractive price, 2 beds, 2 baths, detached Btw T & U. Call Melanie Kishk/Century 21 Realty 917-288-4001
2169 East 3rd St – Detached single fam, 3 beds, prime block Btw U & V, R6 Zoning. Call Melanie Kishk/Century 21 Realty 917-288-4001
1489 East 10th St – Multi-family, prime Midwood, 30x100 lot, 4,071 living space, 3 floors, 8 beds, 5 baths, private drive, private balcony. Call Melanie Kishk/Century 21 Realty 917-2884001
TIMESHARE FOR RENT ARUBA
Available timeshares at Ocean Club & Surf Club. 1,2,3 bedrooms available. Call Rachel 917-685-0048
Allenhurst, NJ Apartments
For Rent: Prime location in Allenhurst, NJ. Two available 2-bedroom apartments on the same property:
• Unit A: $3,000/month
• Unit C: $2,500/month
Garage Rentals –Long Branch, NJ
Garages available for rent in a prime Long Branch location.
fine DINING
NEW YORK
BORDEAUX STEAKHOUSE
1922 Coney Island Avenue, Brooklyn (718) 942-4040
CHINA GLATT
4413 13th Ave, Brooklyn (718) 438-2576
GLATT A LA CARTE
5123 18th Avenue, Brooklyn (718) 438-6675
GRUIT
252 Empire Blvd. Brooklyn (347) 846-0622
LA BROCHETTE
340 Lexington Avenue, New York City (212) 972-2200
LE MARAIS
150 W. 46th St., New York City (212) 869-0900
MIKE’S BISTRO
127 East 54th St., New York City (212) 799-3911
MOCHA RED
127 4th Avenue, New York City (212) 419-8889
NOI DUE CARNE
141 W 69th St., New York City (212) 712-2222
ORCHIDEA
4815 12th Ave, Brooklyn (718) 686-7500
PESCADA
1776 Ocean Avenue Brooklyn (718) 766-2759
UN PLAZA GRILL
845 United Nations Plaza, New York City (212) 223-1801
URBANA
1305 53rd St., Brooklyn (718) 438-4448
WOLF & LAMB
16 East 48th St., New York City (212) 317-1950
NEW JERSEY
656 OCEAN & STINGERS BAR & GRILL
656 Ocean Ave, Long Branch (732) 728-9656
BALAGAN
66 Monmouth Rd, Oakhurst, NJ 07755 (732)716-4200
BUTCHER’S STEAKHOUSE
401 Main St, Allenhurst (732) 686-1498
CRUST CO PIZZA
379 Monmouth Road, Long Branch (732) 229-2145
DIET GOURMET
167 Lincoln Avenue, Long Branch (732) 870-3287
DOUGIE’S BAR & GRILL
256 Norwood Avenue, Deal (732) 517-0300
DOWN TO EARTH
312 Main Street, Allenhurst NJ (732) 686-1597
GRANDMA’S CHEESE CAFE
101 Brighton Ave, Long Branch (732) 895-3621
JELI’S RESTAURANT
125 Ocean Avenue N., Deal (732) 686-9595
JERSEY SHORE SUSHI
250 Norwood Ave, Deal (732) 660-5393
OUTPOST RESTAURANT
125 Ocean Avenue N., Deal (732) 686-9595
PKS BY THE SHORE
244 Norwood Avenue, Oakhurst (732) 813-5757
PRIMAVERA RESTAURANT & BAR
118 Norwood Avenue, Deal (732) 430-2073
RETRO GRILL
214 Roosevelt Avenue, Oakhurst (732) 695-3119
SALT STEAKHOUSE
15 Morris Avenue, Long Branch (732) 813-7258
SHENG MAO CHINESE
214 Roosevelt Ave, Oakhurst (732) 531-7086
TAPAS
116 Norwood Ave, Deal (732) 660-1700
TEVA RESTAURANT
125 Ocean Avenue N., Deal (732) 686-9595
Servicing Brooklyn, Deal and Manhattan
Discover the perfect balance of elegance and technology with our custom electric shades and drapes. Powered by industry leaders Lutron and Somfy, our automated systems provide seamless control at the touch of a button.
We offer custom design and installation solutions to suit every room and need, including:
• Drapery & Sheers • Light Filter Roller Shades
• Roman Shades • Cassette Shades
• Disappearing Shades • Reverse Rolling Shades
• Blackout Roller Shades
Call Elliot 917-476-2958
Stevie Doueck
In association with The Jewish Sephardic Alliance For the Performing Arts Celebrates 70 Years on our Community Stage
Reuniting community players from previous stage productions: Bye-Bye Birdie-Grease-Guys-N-Dolls-Fiddler on The Roof-South Pacific Oklahoma-Kiss Me Kate-S.Y.nfeld-Bradley Beach Memories… and many more.
Call or Email Stevie: StevieDoueck@gmail.com 917-922-6101 for details
CONSUMER GUIDE
ABA THERAPY
Dr. Randi Matsas 87 ACCOUNTANT
Mitch Holsborg 102 ALARMS, CAMERAS & WIRING
EJS Technology Systems 110
ANTIQUE & ESTATE APPRAISER
Steve Doueck 108
APPLIANCE SERVICE
Astre Appliance Service 108 ATTORNEY
Expert Legal Solutions 67
Law Office of Goldstein & Goldstein 81
Law Office of Jack Erdos 65
Law Office of Robert Akerman 98
BEAUTY CARE
Laura’s Skin Care 89
BRANDING AND MARKETING
Sakkal Branding & Marketing Group 21
BROADWAY/OFF BROADWAY SHOWS
The Gazillion Bubble Show 4 CAREER OPPORTUNITY
New York Life 59 CATERING
Susan Sorscher Catering 108 CONSTRUCTION
APY Construction 108
DOB Expediting 108
HMS Construction .......................... 109
Joseph and Sons Builders 109 RM Improvement 108
DEBT MANAGEMENT
Angels of Debt 2 DENTISTS
Dr Jacques Doueck ................ 85,87,89
Dr. Maurice Benjamin 85
Tawil Dental 83
DR.-INTERNAL MEDICINE
Dr. Ezra Israel 53
DR.-PRIMARY CARE
Dr. Aline Benjamin ........................... 85
Rambam Family Health 23
DUCT CLEANING
Remex ............................................. 73
EXECUTIVE & FAMILY COACHING
Rabbi Ezra Max 81
Power Forward Group ...................... 51
Endurance Wealth Partners 29 FISHING BOAT/FLORIDA
Therapy IV Capt Stan 93 FLOOD
Remex ............................................. 73 FURNITURE OUTDOOR
David Cohen Outdoor Furniture 108 HANDYMAN
Eddy Gindi 109 HESED
Mitzvah Man ............................... 5,109 HOME INSPECTION
Top Home Inspection Service 79
SILKY LASER
