Issue 452

Save theDate!

BAIS YAAKOV ELEMENTARY OF ROCKLAND COUNTY

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PERSONAL MENTORSHIP

MIDDAY GUIDANCE

Say Cheese.

Thank you for a picture perfect season.

You chose The Kosher Hive for your cheesecakes, flowers, and flour this season.

As you enjoy Yom Tov with family and friends, we thank you, our family and friends, for making it a beautiful season.

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Come relax, bond, and build memories together in your very own private kosher cabin, by a private lakefront, in the beautiful, breathtaking, and hushed vista that is PMR New Hampshire.

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FLORAL ARTISTRY & TABLESCAPES

Selecting + conditioning flowers, arrangements and bouquets, table décor, and more.

By RAQUEL GOLDISH @primroseny

MAKEUP & SKINCARE

SEWING & FABRICS

Machine use in depth, alterations, fabric prep, threading procedures, and array of techniques.

By SARAH KATZ

HOME ORGANIZING

Proven systems for organizing playrooms, kitchens, and closets, plus expert hacks.

By DALYA GOLDMAN @space.reborn

Applying makeup for everyday + occasions, product guidance, and skincare routines.

By RAYCH KRAUS @byraych

SINGING WITH INTENTION

PASTRIES

& MINIATURES

Secrets and techniques to create dessert cups and stunning miniatures in small, bite sized steps.

By EFRAT LIBFROIND @efrat.libfroindchef

Voice techniques and tips, powerful vocalizing methods, and a peek at the pro studio process.

By DEVORAH SCHWARTZ @devorahschwartzofficial

ART & PAINTING

Step-by-step techniques, styles, and mediums to create your own masterpieces.

By NECHAMA BRILLER @nechamafineart

INTERIOR DESIGN

Color palettes, textures, patterns, harmonizing stylistic choices, and accessorizing spaces.

By MARGALIT LANKRY @margalitlankrydesigns

SHABBOS COOKING BASICS

Menu planning, list making, prepping, and cooking techniques centered around your Shabbos menu.

By NAOMI ROSS @naomirosscooks

United, we climb.

The icy wind bites my face.

But I am not cold.

The steep incline burns my legs.

But I am not weary.

The change in altitude burns my lungs.

But I can breathe.

Because I’m not alone.

Hamaspik is there, right beside me.

United, we conquer not just the mountain.

United, we scale not just the heights.

It’s the unwavering support that turns the harsh conditions into a canvas of hope.

And together, we climb.

Raise your expectations.

Your Shavuos morning coffee was waiting for this.

A delicious, decadent dairy treat that is easy to prepare and will wow your guests at the same time. They will think you spent hours preparing these incredible cheesecake bars!

Chocolate Chip Cheesecake bars

FOR THE COOKIE LAYER

2 cups all purpose flour

1 tsp Lieber’s baking powder

1/2 cup oil

1 cup Lieber's light brown sugar

1 egg

1/3 cup whipped cream cheese

1 tsp Lieber’s vanilla extract

1/2 cup Lieber’s dairy chocolate chips

1/2 cup Lieber’s white choco chips

FOR THE CHEESECAKE LAYER

8oz whipped cream cheese

1/4 cup Lieber’s sugar

1 egg

1 tsp Lieber’s vanilla extract

DIRECTIONS

1. Preheat oven to 350°

2. For the cookie layer: In a bowl place all the ingredients for the cookie layer. Mix by hand using a wooden spoon until you get a nice crumb.

3. Press 2/3 of the crumb into an 8" square pan lined with parchment paper and set aside.

4. For the cheesecake layer: Place everything in a bowl and mix using a whisk until a smooth batter forms pour over the cookie dough layer.

5. Sprinkle the rest of the crumble dough on top.

6. Bake at 350º for 45-50 min or until the center is not jiggly.

7. Let cool in the fridge minimum for 4 hours or overnight before cutting.

VARIATION: FOR A THINNER BAR VERSION, YOU CAN MAKE THE SAME RECIPE IN A 9X13 PAN AND BAKE IT FOR 25-30 MIN.

RECIPE BY FAIGY MURRAY

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INBOX // Talk of Town

MORE SHABBOS TIPS

(Re: Have a Good Shabbos, Issue 450)

The article on family Shabbatons really hit home. We’ve been having Shabbatons for the past twelve years, and they were all DIY events. It’s the best family gathering you could possibly have, and for the grandparents, it’s pure nachas! As the person in charge, I have to admit that it’s quite a job, but it’s well worth it. By now we have most of the details worked out, with only some adjustments needed every year.

I want to add that there are many heimish hotel options that accommodate larger families, which weren’t mentioned in the article. Some options are the Nitra boys camp, Camp HASC and the Lakehouse Hotel. We’ve been to all of those places, and they’re all great! Also, on the checklist, I would also add a toiletries box. I go around my house while packing and throw in whatever I see. From Motrin to nail clippers to lens solution, these things always come to use.

Thanks for a great weekly magazine!

THOUGHTFUL REACTION

(Re: Live and Let Live, Inbox, Issue 450)

C.P.

I occasionally want to write in about things I read, but I never yet had the guts to actually do it. But this week, after reading the responses to the serial Live and Let Live, I had to write in for myself and for my fellow warriors.

MONSEY, NY

I wish readers would use this article as an opportunity to think, rather than jump to judge and criticize. So many of us are going through difficult situations, which we can’t share with the world for various reasons, but still get judged by well-meaning friends and family. We’re judged about decisions without anyone really knowing what we are really dealing with.

Please use this article to think about yourself, your siblings, your friends, your workmates and your acquaintances rather than jumping to judge Debbie, Gavi and sometimes the rest of us.

Anonymous

SO

THAT YOUR DAYS WILL BE LENGTHENED

(Re: The Fifth Commandment; POV, Issue 450)

Thank you so much for your beautiful piece on kibbud av v’eim. It was heartwarming to see how families in Klal Yisroel express their respect to their parents in such beautiful ways.

In today’s world, where the prevailing attitude is, “What’s in it for me?” some of us may be motivated when we realize that in the Torah the reward for this mitzvah is stated clearly and it is something we can enjoy while still in this world: “l’ma’an ya’arichun yamecha.” The Torah promises a long life to

those who keep this mitzvah.

Reb Elimelech Biderman, shlit”a, tells the following story: Many years ago, a yeshiva bochur told his father that the Chofetz Chaim would be visiting his yeshiva’s town, and all the bochurim were looking forward to meeting the great tzaddik. The father asked his son not to attend for fear that the crowds would be large and his son could get hurt, and his son (amazingly) complied. While the entire town went out to greet the gadol, this bochur stayed indoors and did not participate. When the bochurim came back, they exultantly reported that they each received a bracha from the

Chofetz Chaim that they merit a long life.

Said this bochur many decades later to his grandson when he was already a zaken, “I carefully recorded the names of all those bochurim and kept track of many of them until their dying day. Incredibly, they all merited to see the fulfillment of the bracha they received from the Chofetz Chaim and lived a long life. However, I outlived them all. While the words of the gadol came true, the promise of Hashem in the words of the Torah that I will merit a long life because I obeyed my father outweighed even the bracha from the

Chofetz Chaim!”

My own grandmother, who was the sole survivor of her family after the Holocaust, was zoche to live to her late 90s. She never failed to tell us that prior to the outbreak of the war, when things were still calm and peaceful, her mother advised her to learn a specific skill. Although she was not really so keen about entering that profession, she obeyed her mother and learned the skill. Later, when the war came, her expertise in this profession sustained her family and saved them from hunger. In the concentration camp, this skill repeatedly saved

her life by giving her access to better food and accommodations. Later, as a mother and housewife, she always found ways to supplement her family’s income by using her profession. She attributed her survival of the brutal war years and her subsequent arichas yamim to the kibbud eim she practiced while still an innocent teen by following her mother’s directive.

As we prepare for kabbalas haTorah, let’s work on strengthening ourselves in this important mitzvah, which is part of the Aseres Hadibros.

Gut yom tov, A mother who is also a daughter

ahhhh summer

An Everlasting Bond SHAVUOS

Y. Levenstein

Shavuos is approaching. Once again, we will be zoche to be mekabel the Torah anew. On this day, we were chosen as Hashem’s nation, and every year, that special relationship is renewed as we accept upon ourselves to be His children and follow the Torah as our guiding light. Every day, we praise Hashem, “ V’hivdilanu min hato’im,” thanking Him for having separated us from the nations, “ v’nasan lanu Toras emes,” and for choosing to give us the Torah. We continue by saying “V’chayei olam nata b’socheinu,” and end with a tefillah – “ Hu yiftach libeinu b’Toraso” – May Hashem open our hearts to the Torah.

What is the connection between our praise and this request?

IT WAS A CHAVRUSASHAFT that was difficult to break up. The two simply derived such great pleasure from learning together. When Rav Yechezkel Chefetz, zt”l, and Rav Meir Simcha of Dvinsk, zt”l — better known by the name of his famous work, the Ohr Sameach — moved to different cities, they continued to get together twice a year to learn. Rav Yechezkel would travel to Dvinsk and immerse himself in the past delight of delving into a sugya together.

It happened once, on such a trip, that the two were poring over a complicated sugya. They learned through the Tosafos, each trying to offer a plausible explanation for its words, but they simply could not get it clear.

After an hour of toil and sweat, the Ohr Sameach suggested, “Let’s stop and daven that we should merit ahavas haTorah.”

Reb Yechezkel agreed, and they davened in earnest. Amazingly, when they returned to the Gema-

ra, the sugya was crystal clear. They were able to understand it 100%.

Rav Yechezkel turned to his friend and said, “Teach me, Rebbi! We often daven that our eyes should be enlightened by the Torah — ‘V’ha’er eineinu b’Torasecha…’ We ask for clarity and understanding on an intellectual level. What was the pshat of our davening for ahavas haTorah? Baruch Hashem, we both love the Torah! The problem was just that we weren’t managing to understand it…”

The Ohr Sameach smiled and replied with a parable.

“A mother once needed to go out, and she dropped off her baby at a babysitter. No sooner had the mother left than the baby began crying inconsolably. The babysitter did her best and tried to placate the child. She offered a pacifier, a bottle and a blanket. She rocked, she cuddled, and she sang to the baby. But nothing helped. The baby continued to cry, angrily dropping the bottle and pacifier and pushing away the blanket. After trying every trick she could think of, the babysitter had to admit that she simply could not calm the child down.

“An hour later, the mother returned to find her red-faced baby, still throwing a fit. She lifted the child and cuddled him tight. In an instant, the child grew quiet. A hint of a smile quivered on his lips, and only his tear-smudged cheeks and puffy eyes were evidence of his distress of moments ago.

“Tell me,” said the Ohr Sameach. “How could this be? The babysitter was so devoted to the child! She tried everything to calm the baby down, but her efforts didn’t help. Yet the moment the mother took him into her arms, the child calmed down completely!

“You see,” the Ohr Sameach continued, “the babysitter, devoted as she may have been, was working according to her sense of intellect. She saw the child’s pain and used every sensible technique to fix the problem. Perhaps the baby was un-

They davened in earnest. Amazingly, when they returned to the Gemara, the sugya was crystal clear

comfortable or hungry, in which case a fresh diaper or bottle would help…

“On the other hand, when the mother heard her baby’s cries, her heart was awakened. She loves the child and feels he is a part of her. When he cries, something inside her cries as well. If he is in pain, she is in pain too. Her connection with the child is so deep, she identifies with him so well. And the child feels it. He feels that his mother love, and that’s why he could relax the moment he is in her loving embrace.”

The Ohr Sameach explained the nimshal: “When we got stuck in a challenging sugya, I suggested we daven for a love of Torah. If we love the To-

rah the way a mother loves her child, if we feel the Torah is a part of us, we will be able to understand it. Our great love and deep connection will empower us to succeed at figuring out any complication in Torah!” * * * * *

We say, “V’chayei olam nata b’socheinu” — when a person feels that the Torah is “inside of him,” when he feels the Torah is his life, he will truly desire to be zoche “V’Hu yiftach libeinu b’Toraso.”

In the same vein, in Ahavah Rabbah, we ask to merit to learn and live Torah, “Lilmod u’lelamed, lishmor v’la’asos

u’lekayem es kol divrei talmud Torasecha — b’ahavah.” We want to be able to learn and keep all mitzvos of the Torah. How, indeed, could we be zoche to this? When it comes “b’ahavah.” When we feel the bond, and when we feel that Torah is a part of us, we become empowered to fulfill the entire Torah.

Between the flowers and cheesecakes of Shavuos lies a treasure: the gift of connecting to Torah.

May we all be zoche to capitalize on the auspicious moments of Kabbalas HaTorah 5784 to daven and to beg for ahavas haTorah. May we feel the love, feel the bond, and feel that the Torah is not external, but a very real part of our lifeblood.

SPICK & SPAN

ןיינ ןיינ ןיינ ,ןיילא סע טלאה ןעזיירפ טשינ לאצ

Hochul Drops Bombshell, Pulling the Plug on Congestion Pricing

In a stunning about-face, Governor Kathy Hochul announced the indefinite suspension of New York City’s congestion pricing plan just 25 days before it was scheduled to go into effect. The plan would have hit motorists with a hefty toll when driving south of 60th Street in Manhattan.

The governor’s surprise announcement came in a pre-recorded video released at noon on June 5, where she addressed the cost of living in New York. Hochul noted that with many people struggling financially, having to pay $15 to enter Manhattan’s central business district was too much of a burden to bear. The governor also explained that congestion pricing was intended to reduce traffic and emissions and to fund capital investments in public transit and was approved prior to the pandemic.

“Circumstances have changed and we must respond to the facts on the ground, not from the rhetoric from five years ago,” said Hochul. “So, after careful consideration, I have come to the difficult decision that implementing the planned congestion pricing system risks too many unintended consequences for New Yorkers at this time.”

Multiple lawsuits had been filed against congestion pricing, with those living in New Jersey and the suburbs emphasizing that mass transit wasn’t a viable option for them. The Metropolitan Transportation Authority spent $507 million to create the electronic tolling infrastructure for the program, which was on track to debut on June 30.

Hochul’s surprise announcement received mixed reactions, with transit advocates and environmentalists outraged as they saw their dreams of slashing traffic in the city crumbling before their eyes. A statement released by Elizabeth Adams, deputy executive director for public affairs at Transportation Al-

ternatives, described Hochul’s announcement as a slap in the face to mass transit riders.

“Congestion pricing is a $15 billion lifeline for the MTA — critical funding that will be lost if the program is stalled,” said Adams. “The next time your train is late, your bus is in traffic, your subway station is still missing an elevator, you know who to blame: Governor Kathy Hochul.”

Others applauded the decision, praising the governor for listening to the voice of the people she is sworn to serve, including Rabbi Yehiel Kalish, CEO of Chevra Hatzalah, whose drivers would not have been exempted from the added toll, even when responding to emergencies.

Several elected officials denounced the move as a cheap political stunt in an election year where Democrats are facing stiff opposition. Queens Councilwoman Vickie Paladino suggested that Hochul, a Democrat, could reinstate the program after the November elections.

“The politics of this are disgusting,” wrote Paladino. “The will of the people is clear — nobody wants this. But as usual, Democrats will only pretend to care long enough to get them through an election, then it’s back to their usual authoritarianism. If Hochul wants to show some leadership here, she’ll pull the plug on this disaster permanently.”

Those thoughts were echoed by Congressman Mike Lawler, who observed that congestion pricing could potentially cost drivers $5,000 or more in new tolls just to get to work. The Republican Lawler took Hochul to task for saying that she would be working with both city and the state officials to make up for the loss of the $1 billion in congestion pricing revenues that was earmarked for the financially strapped MTA.

“For the governor to pump the brakes on congestion pricing now, while examining a new tax on businesses, shows that this was never about congestion, but rather it was always a money grab to shovel more taxpayer dollars into the endless pit that is the MTA’s constant waste and corruption,” said Lawler in a statement.

Rockland County Executive Ed Day called the notion that congestion pricing would have had drivers opting to take mass transit to work laughable, noting that only 60% of New York City’s workforce are physically present in their offices for a full workweek. Day blasted the MTA for failing to serve the approximately 4,000 Rocklanders who drive into Manhattan for work by not providing them with appropriate mass transit options, saying that county residents shouldn’t be punished for the agency’s inability to manage its finances.

“Governor Kathy Hochul should not just pause this plan, but eliminate it entirely,” said Day in a statement. “If not, I will continue our legal fight alongside my colleagues in government on behalf of families we serve who do not deserve another unnecessary tax.”

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New Spring Valley Playground To Be Completed by July

Families who live near the intersection of Old Nyack Turnpike and Kennedy Drive are just weeks away from enjoying a state-of-the-art playground, with construction slated for completion by the end of June.

Work began at the new Kennedy Trails Park on May 30. Funding for the project came through the postCOVID American Rescue Plan Act. The Village of Spring Valley accepted bids for the playground from four different companies last summer, selecting one that they hope will best serve area residents.

Until now the park has had picnic tables, benches and a path, but no playground equipment.

“This new playground will be a wonderful addition to our community, providing a safe and enjoyable space for our children to play and grow,” said Spring Valley Deputy Mayor Yisroel Eisenbach.

New York Bracing for Invasion of Giant Flying Spiders

They have legs that can be as much as four inches long, can fly through the air, and are reportedly venomous, although not to humans or pets. They are known as Joro spiders, and they are, unfortunately, heading our way.

The arrival of Joro spiders is imminent. With bright yellow and grey bodies and massive legs, the weirdly disturbing bugs are every arachnophobe’s nightmare. The creepy crawlies have already been spotted in Florida, Alabama, Mississippi, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennesse, Kentucky, West Virginia, Maryland and Ohio, and University of Georgia researcher Andy Davis said that he expects to see Joro spiders in New York and surrounding states this summer. Having already seen them elsewhere on street lamps and telephone poles, Davis anticipates that

the arachnids will enjoy city life.

While they don’t actually fly, Joro spiders release silk threads into the air, where they can be carried by the wind. And while they are venomous, it is butterflies, wasps and other bugs that get caught in their webs, as well as native spiders, that are at risk from invasion of the Joros.

Native to East Asia, Joro spiders were first spotted in Georgia in 2010 and are believed to have come to this country in a shipping container. And while they may be off-putting, the long-legged spiders do have some benefits, since they enjoy eating mosquitos, yellow jacks, spotted lanternflies and marmorated stink bugs.

Local Electeds Unite as O&R Propose $32 Million Rate Hike

A petition filed by Orange and Rockland that would have Rocklanders seeing their already high utility bills rising even more has local officials joining forces to prevent the proposed increases.

County Executive Ed Day, the supervisors of all five of Rockland’s towns, County Legislature Chairman Jay Hood and Rockland Green Executive Director Gerald Damiani Jr. have engaged a law firm to formally challenge Orange and Rockland’s latest effort to raise their prices.

A petition filed by the utility with the Public Service Commission asks for an $18.1 million increase in electric rates and a $14.4 million jump in gas rates.

With Rocklanders already paying among the highest prices in the nation, hitting residents with higher prices isn’t sitting well with local lawmakers.

“Costs are rising across nearly all sectors, and these proposed increases would place an even heavier burden on the people of Rockland County,” said Day. “We cannot continue to have these exorbitant rate hikes. We are calling on the PSC to thoroughly review these proposals and protect our taxpayers.”

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CHARTING A COURSE THROUGH THE RECRUITMENT MAZE

A Candid Conversation with Sol Jacobs, Founder

of Supreme Talent

We sat down for an exclusive interview with Sol Jacobs, Founder of Supreme Talent, to uncover some key insights into the current hiring landscape.

Q: Why would you recommend that job seekers work with a recruiter? Couldn’t they land a job without a recruiter at their side?

A: Of course — personal networks can be powerful, especially in our community. But, why limit your chances to land great opportunities that may be outside of your close network? Working with recruiters enables candidates to connect with powerhouse companies.

Q: Unfortunately, a lot of people have had bad experiences with recruiters in recent years, particularly in the frum community. How would you address these concerns?

A: While the vast majority of recruiters in the heimish world are highly professional, all it takes is a few unprofessional situations to negatively impact the industry’s reputation. I sincerely hope that the community’s many respectable recruiting professionals continue to outshine the unprofessional ones.

Q: Great to meet you, Sol! I’d love to first hear about your journey. How did you get started in the recruiting world?

A: I started out in recruiting several years ago when a Brooklyn-based recruiting firm hired me to lead their agency. I’ve always had an innate ability to understand people and a genuine passion for helping them succeed. Getting to know the needs of companies and candidates, and connecting the dots between the two, just feels incredibly natural to me.

I founded Supreme Talent in a quest to create a better job-matching experience — one that delivers exceptional results by prioritizing open communication and professionalism.

Q: Shortly after the COVID pandemic, employees had incredible leverage to demand higher salaries and flexible working terms. Have you found this still to be true?

A: COVID-19 was a game-changer — it prompted many candidates to reevaluate their careers. However, demands for higher salaries have started to slow down. Candidates are continuing to prioritize flexibility, but many are realizing that their pay demands need to better align with employers’ salary ranges.

Q: I’d love to talk about how you approach the hiring process. First off, what are the top traits you typically look for in a candidate?

A: No matter the job or industry, I’ve found that personality and integrity come first, followed by skills and experience. Our recruiters always make sure that these traits align well with

the employer’s needs.

Q: What are some things that you think candidates could improve upon when looking for a job?

A: Candidates need to really invest in the process. Make sure your resume is presentable, and if you’re interviewing remotely, you still need to dress for success and sit in a professional location. I also recommend researching the company, being on time for the interview, and staying respectful and professional. The rest is in Hashem’s hands. We as recruiters are just shluchim in the process.

Candidates should also maintain realistic expectations of the recruitment process. While we strive to place every candidate — and yes, this is all done at no charge to the candidate — we need to ensure that candidates align closely with job specifications. It’s like a puzzle, and every piece must fit perfectly.

of — and even abuse — the lack of oversight.

Miscommunication, delayed responses, and mistreatment are not only unprofessional but can cause missed opportunities.

Q: What do you wish employers were aware of when it comes to hiring?

A: Be clear about job expectations, communicate regularly with candidates, and treat them with respect. Miscommunication, delayed responses, and mistreatment are not only unprofessional but can cause missed opportunities.

We encourage our clients to clearly communicate their hiring needs so we can help them. It’s also important for our clients to realize that by the time we’ve sent over a suitable match, we’ve already carefully evaluated another 20 to 30 potential candidates. Successful matches that precisely fit employer needs are only a result of this thorough process.

Q: Many employers today aren’t so thrilled with the rise of the gig economy. What’s your perspective on it?

A: While I’m not in favor of supporting employees who invest in side gigs during work hours, it’s essential to recognize that this trend is unavoidable. The gig economy is not something employers should ignore — in fact, I suggest they embrace it. I know many individuals who excel in their full-time positions even while managing a side gig. Each situation should be considered individually, and blanket policies may not always be appropriate.

Q: If you find a great candidate but they’re only available to work remotely, do you typically still recommend them?

A: Although remote work is more acceptable and commonplace now, my team still always tries to land on-site placement initially. We’ve found that there’s just no comparison to on-site collaboration. And unfortunately, we have seen remote workers take advantage

That being said, if the candidate is a great fit for the role, and the company is open to remote work, then I would definitely recommend them.

Q. Wow, remote employees abusing the lack of oversight? Tell me more about that.

Fabricating illnesses is just one of many stories I’ve heard. I could probably write a book!

A: I’ve seen several remote employees spin wild tales to their employers. One that stands out is an individual who had a smooth first few months, but one day he called his employer with devastating news that he needed to quit due to a terminal illness diagnosis. While I was sympathetic, something felt off. And just a few months later, I noticed his LinkedIn had been updated — he had landed a position with a top competitor that he started right after he quit.

Fabricating illnesses is just one of many stories I’ve heard. I could probably write a book!

Q: Okay, let’s look to the future now for a bit — what trends do you foresee in the coming years in the job market?

A: One notable trend that I expect to accelerate is the increasing emphasis on remote and flexible work arrangements ushered in by the COVID-19 pandemic. Employers should be prepared to offer more flexible work environments.

I’m also anticipating a continued focus on both hard skills and soft skills. Candidates should focus on developing hard skills, like technological proficiency, along with soft skills, like communication. Along these lines, employers should be ready to invest in ongoing professional development training.

Lastly, I expect that companies and employees will continue to prioritize aligning work with personal values and ethical practices.

Q: To end off, I’m curious about what makes Supreme Talent unique. Why is your agency the preferred choice for candidates and employers?

A: Think of Supreme Talent as the Cadillac of recruitment — we’re not just your average car on the road.

Our service goes way beyond merely collecting resumes. We prioritize superior communication and strive to deeply understand client needs in order to ensure strategic and personalized matches.

Q: Thank you so much for your time! Anything else you’d like to share?

A: Remember that Jewish businesses and candidates aren’t at the whims of mere chance and luck. We always rise above, no matter the challenges at hand. I wish everyone a successful year ahead!

TALENT

Supreme Talent is a leading talent acquisition firm based in Brooklyn, NY. Its team of experienced recruiters have a proven track record of successfully connecting top talent with incredible companies across a variety of industries.

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Gavi decides the time is ripe to tell family and friends what is going on. Debbie leaves her husband in her mother-in-law’s care so she can participate in her sister’s wedding.

After the seizure, things changed. Gavi’s bloodwork was bad. So bad that he finally made it higher on the transplant list. Additionally, our hospitalization schedule had to change. Whereas in the past I’d gone back and forth between our children and the hospital, now I stationed myself at Gavi’s side. The fractures in his back and shoulders, which had occurred during the seizure, made movement impossible. Unlike in the past, he really could not be left alone. We settled back into the ward we’d just left and tried not to feel too gloomy. After another twelve long days in the hospital, the doctors began speaking of discharge. I felt no relief; I was horrified. How would we manage at home? Gavi’s shoulders were broken. We relied heavily on the electric hospital bed to help him change positions,

sit up and sleep comfortably. We had access to strong painkillers. Everything was easier in the hospital when taking care of a patient, who, in essence, was disabled.

On top of that, the thought of going home to “wait for a liver” was horrible. Watching Gavi deteriorate over the last few years, and even more so during the last few weeks, was wrenching. Going home to wait felt wrong. We wanted to get the transplant and leave the hospital with a new, healthy Gavi. We couldn’t face that it could take many months for a suitable liver to be come available.

One evening, the depart ment head, chief surgeon and transplant coordinator en tered Gavi’s room. They stood around the bed, and my heart picked up speed. The transplant coordinator cleared her throat.

“Up until this point,” she be gan, “you’ve been very low on the transplant priority list. Based on your last lab tests, you’ve been moved up to the third on the list to receive a liver.” She looked at us and I could see the compassion in her eyes. “While that means that Gavi is not doing well, it also means you don’t have dozens of people ahead of you in line for a liver any more.” The surgeon described the transplant process and examined Gavi again. They informed us that

CHAPTER7 AS TOLD TO EMUNA STEIN

the next morning, Gavi was being discharged to wait for a liver to become available.

Once they left, it all became so much more real. We decided to move in with Gavi’s parents to wait; I couldn’t care for Gavi, the boys, work, and run a home entirely on my own.

The next morning, we left the hospital, Gavi decked out with slings and a brace. We needed a wheelchair to get him from his room to the waiting taxi. The day passed in a blur. It was amazing to see the kids, but taking care of Gavi at home was challenging. Everything was harder; the wheelchair didn’t fit into all of the rooms, and we only had access to oral painkillers, which meant he was in more pain. I tried calling some askanim about a transplant in the U.S., but as it was a Friday, most of the people I reached asked me to call back on Sunday.

place, waiting for Monday afternoon.

ONE EVENING, THE DEPARTMENT HEAD, CHIEF SURGEON AND TRANSPLANT COORDINATOR ENTERED GAVI’S

Monday found me feeling more hopeless than ever. I was unsure of my next step, and I was emotionally spent. At 2:30 p.m., one and a half hours before the phone call marathon would begin, I took myself to the bedroom we were staying in and tried to put myself together.

“Debbie,” I said to myself, “you can do this.”

ROOM. THEY STOOD AROUND THE BED, AND MY HEART PICKED

UP SPEED

We were home, with our boys, for the first Shabbos following four straight weeks of Shabbos in the hospital. We were eating regular Shabbos food. Seeing our kids. It should have been perfect, but it was hard trying to be there for everyone. Gavi couldn’t move without help, but our little guys had missed us desperately and were very clingy. It was an intense juggling act.

By Sunday, I was exhausted. We’d been home for less than three days, but I didn’t feel like I could do this much longer. Six months, they’d said it could take — and that was before I knew that they were just being encouraging. Pushing ahead through the hopeless fog enveloping me, I contacted travel agents, organizations and U.S. insurance companies, trying to seriously explore the American option. Again, I hit a dead-end, with everyone telling me that the U.S. offices would open only on Monday morning, four p.m. Israeli time. We were frozen in

I started going through piles of paperwork from the hospitalization, but before I got very far, Gavi woke up. He offered to help me go through the papers, but we both knew he could barely move his hands. Thoughts whirled through my mind: If we went to the U.S., what would we do with our kids? Could we really live in a different country for months, far from everyone we knew and loved? And what about the money? The insurance? But Gavi would probably get a liver faster there. My head pounded with uncertainty.

As I sat there, Gavi’s phone rang. I didn’t pick up; I was allowing myself to sit with my worries. The ringing stopped, but a moment later it started again. I still didn’t move. I couldn’t bring myself to talk to anyone.

Suddenly a thought occurred to me, and on the slim chance that it was actually someone calling about a liver, I picked up.

“Hello,” said the caller. “I’m calling from Hadassah hospital. Is Gavi available?”

An electric current slashed through me as I knew, with certainty, that this was about a liver. I gave Gavi the phone, and in the quiet room, I heard the transplant coordinator clearly.

“There may be a liver for you. We can’t be sure yet, but we need you to come, just in case. Pack a bag and be here within two hours.”

I started crying. At my very lowest moment, when I truly felt I could not continue any longer, this call was a dazzling reminder that Hashem was there, taking care of us.

TO BE CONTINUED…

845.751.1113

As a serial reader, I know it takes

a good couple of weeks to connect to the characters, until you get to that point where you urgently flip open the magazine to ensure that each one is still alive. The magazine is an hour late? That’s an hour too long for the hapless character freezing to death or choking on her sobs or lost in the woods.

I know it takes a few weeks to get to know them. Their quirks, their weaknesses, their strengths. That’s why it feels weird writing a postscript/epilogue/behind-the-scenes for a miniserial.

Because wasn’t it short ?

We finally got to know our characters and they’re already waving goodbye.

I’m to blame. I was terrified of springing an untold number of problems onto my characters and then finding myself stuck trying to unravel them.

Because the world has enough prob-

lems. It’s the neat solutions that are hard to come by.

I was terrified of building a plot and then… I was also scared of writer’s block.

So a mini-serial seemed to be the best idea. I would write and solve all the characters’ problems before they became too huge for them (me) to handle.

I even made sure that the graphic designer put the words mini in the design, to give me and you chizuk that all problems have a solution around the corner.

Thirteen chapters.

For that I spoke to the probation office to make sure the shul was a legally okay place to work. (They wanted to sign me up for community service on the spot). I cold-called law offices to ask if Yoel could solve his legal troubles in just thirteen weeks (okay, chapters). I judged scores of people and researched murals and habits of wealthy people ad nauseam. I researched horse-riding

therapy and manes and riding vests.

But all this was technical. Once I got the facts right, I could confidently write about them.

Building the characters was another story. I created Yoel, I created Russy, I created Chavi and Zevi, and all those barely mentioned characters such as the rest of the siblings and Lemmel and the Rav.

(The only character who needed no creating was Kristina. She’s a real person, my own seamstress, complete with the name, smoking habits, tendency to gossip, and penchant for creating interesting collars on our dresses. Sewing appointments were a family affair with cousins and rum balls — we baked them special for her. Then we took off from school the days she promised to come, and she never showed up. One memorable Erev Shabbos sheva brachos, we drove to her house in Connecticut in the pouring rain, even braving her dog, because the kallah’s dress was AWOL. And on another one, we were

tempted to mail her a poison ivy plant when the Yom Tov dresses didn’t show up. We still miss her.)

I started the story with Yoel. Theoretically, could I take a big-shot guy who thinks he owns the world and throw him down headfirst? Could I take a Yoel who yields authority over his family, his shul, his rav and his employees and make him wear a fluorescent vest in a park?

I laughed in glee picturing him being sprayed by a skunk and bathing in tomato sauce. Let him learn his lesson! I had thirteen entire weeks to do that!

quite a bit of sleep over the fact that the Pesach prep chapter was published Isru Chag Pesach, and the Purim scene took place when the last of mishloach manos was finally un-ribboned and in the garbage can. Seriously, who wants to read about potato blintzes and falshe fish after throwing out the leftovers? But there was little I could do except throw out my own leftover Pesach blintzes.

I started the story with Yoel.

Theoretically, could I take a big-shot guy who thinks he owns the world and throw him down headfirst?

In the end I scrapped that scene, because as it turns out, there’s no such a thing as an evil Yid. As I started writing and developing Yoel, I started learning him, saw that he wasn’t all that bad. He was so good at the core; he simply wanted to protect his family and smooth out their path in life. If he went about it all wrong, I could teach him a lesson without the skunk.

I created Russy, the weak wife who lost her voice. And then found it. I created Chavi. I know so many Chavis, entrenched in patterns they are familiar with, trying to find the courage to break away, only to learn that those patterns were nice — with a tweak.

I originally planned on having Chavi completely break away and chart her own path, but then I realized that I do the same thing as Yoel (though perhaps without an endless cash flow and powerful connections). I try so hard to smooth the way for my kids. My daughter wants a part in the play? I’m friendly with her teacher, so why not ask? My son can land a great melamed if I call an uncle? Sure. I want life to be easy and smooth for them. So did Yoel. He didn’t deserve to lose his daughter.

So what happened in thirteen weeks?

I learned more about myself than about writing serials. I realized that if you spend enough time with anyone, learn their pain points, their backstory, their fears and their victories, you will like them.

I learned that you have to actually work with a calendar. Because I lost

I learned that apparently I can sit in one place long enough to write a serial. Until now I always stuck to short stories because even that felt like it took too long.

I also learned that there are lots of very smart people out there — namely the amazing editorial staff at The Monsey View, especially Esther King, who have such insight and gave me such helpful, targeted feedback. It was worth writing a serial to learn that!

So thank you to all of my dear readers who stopped me at PTA, at the sheitel macher and at tenoyims. You are the ones who kept me plodding through the intricacies of a holding cell versus a prison cell.

I hope you’ve enjoyed the ride, and along with me, learned all about coming down from our high horses and learning a thing or two about true humility.

And along with you, I’m left wondering: how are they doing? How’s Yoel with Tuli as his employee? How’s Zevi coping with spring fever? Because we all know that growth is one step forward and two steps back. In thirteen chapters, I only wrote about the forward steps because there wasn’t much room for the two backward ones. But if there’s one thing I learned from this mini serial, it’s that we all can just keep going forward.

Good luck, and I hope we meet again soon!

EARLY INTERVENTION CLASSROOM

EI THERAPY SERVICES

24/7

A FINAL FLOURISH

LIBBY GOLDBERGER

Finish your meals with a flourish with these easy delicacies.

This week’s recipes are sponsored by Abe’s Ice Cream

LOTUS SANDWICH POPS

Fun for kids and adults alike!

INGREDIENTS

1 pkg. lotus cookies

1 jar lotus spread

1 (56 oz.) tub Abe’s vanilla ice cream

4 oz. pareve brown baking chocolate

4 oz. pareve white baking chocolate

SUPPLIES

Mini popsicle sticks

DIRECTIONS

1. Spread the lotus cookies in a lined 9x13” pan. Position them one next to the other.

2. Slightly defrost the ice cream, and spread over the cookies.

3. Place another layer of cookies on top. Freeze until firm, preferably overnight.

4. Gently release the parchment paper, and slice in between the cookies. I used a doublesided knife. Place sandwich cookies on a clean parchment paper.

5. Place both the brown and white chocolate into a double boiler or microwave, and heat until melted.

6. Dip the corner of each pop into chocolate.

7. Melt the lotus cream in the microwave, and drizzle on top of the chocolate.

8. Crush some of the lotus cookies, and sprinkle on top.

9. Place a popsicle stick into each sandwich, and freeze until serving.

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SORBET FRUIT CUPS

The refreshing combo of fruit and sorbet cannot be beat!

INGREDIENTS

1 container Abe’s strawberry sorbet

1 container Abe’s mango sorbet

12 oz. mini cubed fruit mix

SUPPLIES

8-cavity shot cup silicone mold

DIRECTIONS

1. Slightly defrost both sorbets. Working with one flavor at a time, fill the molds and freeze overnight or for 24 hours. The longer you freeze the sorbet, the firmer it will be, and the easier it will be to pop out.

2. Pop the sorbet out of the molds. If they start to become soft, return to the freezer and wait a little longer.

3. Fill the ices mold with fresh fruit before serving.

TRIANGLE POPS

Simple and to the point, these pops hit the spot for that sweet craving after a meal.

INGREDIENTS

1 (48 oz.) container Abe’s berry sorbet

4 oz. white baking chocolate

SUPPLIES

Mini flowers for decoration

Mini popsicle sticks

DIRECTIONS

1. Slightly defrost the sorbet.

2. Place the sorbet in a 9x13” pan lined with parchment paper. Freeze overnight.

3. Cut the sorbet into approximately 2- to 2½inch squares.

4. Place the squares standing upward, and slice diagonally in half. Place back into the pan in a lying position. Freeze to harden.

5. Melt white baking chocolate. Dip the end of a sorbet triangle into the white chocolate. Decorate with mini flowers.

6. Place the popsicle stick into the other end. Freeze until ready to serve.

7. Repeat with remaining sorbet.

WITH DIAMONDS

5.25

5.30

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ESTHER MALKY NEIMAN

Following the Piper

World War II is raging. London is under siege.

And the girls of the Herling family must deal with new, frightening realities.

Florrie and Sue, evacuated to the countryside, must grow up overnight — all alone.

Clara labors to serve her country under difficult conditions — and struggles to remain true to herself.

Following the Piper, the latest title from talented children’s author ESTHER MALKY NEIMAN, will draw you inexorably into the world of a family striving for greatness even though nothing will ever be the same.

ARRANGED BY

Throw open the proverbial window, and inhale the magic of flower season. Shavous is here! The time has come to usher indoors the kaleidoscope of Hashem’s stunning creations.

I don’t claim to be a flower expert, but over the years, I did pick up some tips and formulas that simplify and enhance the flower-arranging process. Now I’m excited to share the joy and spark your creativity by passing these ideas on to you! Don’t get too concerned about being precise; art is not bound by rules. It’s all about enjoying the process and marveling at Hashem’s incredible palette.

MIRIAM PESSY WERCBERGER

SHAINDY HERSHKOWITZ

PHOTOS BY

Wonderfully White

For this bouquet, I went for a look that encompasses the weightlessness of summer. I adore a low and wide arrangement that instantly transforms the length of a table, yet doesn’t block your view of those sitting opposite you.

STEP 1: SELECT YOUR VASE

Anything that can hold water can become a base for a floral arrangement. Add whimsy, flair and interest to your table by using items you already have lying around. I love using baskets, mugs or tureens of any shape. For this bouquet, I went with a white acrylic cake stand, which I turned upside down.

STEP 3: PREPPING THE ARRANGEMENT

Equipped with my bouquets of bounty, I was raring to go. I placed the flowers into an extra vase I wasn’t going to be using for the set, filled it with water, and set out to prep my arrangements. First I bent a piece of chicken wire into the shape of the opening of the vase and placed it snugly inside. Now the stems could pass through two layers of chicken wire for the best hold. In addition, I created a crisscross with tape over the opening of the vase. This offered even more control over flower placement. Alternatively, you can use flower foam.

STEP 2: SELECT YOUR FLOWERS

With my vase all ready, I headed to Blossoms Floral Bar, aka the equivalent of flower heaven, to make my selection. The plethora of colors on display was nothing short of intoxicating.

STEP 4: CREATING THE ARRANGEMENT

Here’s where I pull out my handy flower formula: foliage, then focal, then filler. Let’s break it down:

Foliage: Setting out the green foliage first gives you control over the shape of your arrangement.

Focal: Once the foliage is in place, place your statement flowers at strategic spots all over the arrangement for optimal focus.

Filler: Finish up by placing smaller flowers, baby’s breaths, or textural elements into the arrangement to fill the empty spaces.

FOLIAGE FOCAL FILLER

Whimsy meets elegance in this playful basket of peonies. In China, a peony is called “sho tu,” which means “most beautiful.” We definitely can agree on that one, as this beautiful flower has become a Shavous favorite.

Creating Your Basket Vase

The concept of a basket overflowing with blooms is irresistibly cheerful to me. I simply wrapped a layer of ribbon around a gold wire basket and secured it at the seam with hot glue. I added a strip of thin black ribbon to the center in order to conceal the spot where the two rows of ribbon meet. For a finishing touch, I glued on some gold brass bumblebees. Finally, I placed a plastic container into the basket to hold the flowers.

When filling this basket, I first created an outline using eucalyptus branches as my foliage. My focal flowers were obviously the beautiful peonies, which I placed at strategic spots around the bouquet. Then I used the baby’s breath to round out the empty spaces.

The dramatic deep purples and vivid greens carry a whiff of stately elegance. The graceful and flowing look was achieved by blending woody greens with lighter and airier ornamental grasses and blossoms.

YOUR OWN BACKYARD

Creating Your Glam Vase Set

By employing some metallic gold sheets, this plain set of black cylindrical vases takes on an entirely new meaning. Working in small sections, paint an adhesive (like Mod Podge) over the surface of each vase Then lay gold metallic sheets over the glass and smooth down. It doesn’t need to be perfect; veining and flakes add to the aesthetic appeal.

Take a look at the bounty growing all around you. My arrangements were made complete using various branches, leaves and even weeds I found outside.

Find inspiration in the things that grow right outside your door. Don’t hesitate to clip branches off your trees to use as the base of your arrangement. It may just turn out to be magnificent.

PRO TIPS

It’s best to cut all stems at an angle to maximize the available surface area for water absorption.

Remove all the lower leaves on each stem so they don’t sit below the water line.

Hello, the store closes at six and I still need a dress returned! It’s a real adorable dress, but it doesn’t really fit her and if I don’t get back to the store on time I’ll lose the money and I don’t have anybody

The Where Matters!

Picture a simple dirt path meandering through open fields. Imagine a young woman walking down that path. At first glance, this scene seems unremarkable. But this woman — who is not even Jewish! — is destined to change the course of history.

This young woman is Rus, the princess of Moav.

In terms of monumental historical events that formed the cornerstones of Jewish history, Rav Avigdor Miller, zt”l, equates Rus’ decision to become a giyores to nothing less than the giving of the Torah on Har Sinai!

With one major difference.

Whereas the Torah was given with great noise and in the presence of millions of spectators, the story of Rus began in a quiet, private moment, and in humble circumstances.

In what way does Rav Miller equate Rus with Matan Torah?

From Moav to Moshiach

Dovid Hamelech did everything for us, Rav Miller says. He gave us Sefer Tehillim, which expresses the yearning and emotions in the heart of every Yid. He subdued all of the enemy nations around us and conquered Eretz Yisrael. More than anyone, he was responsible for the building of the Bais Hamikdash. Even though Hashem didn’t allow him to build it, Dovid made all the plans and collected all the materials. The entire idea was Dovid’s. He also gave us Yerushalayim; it had been a city of Yevusim, a Canaanite people. Dovid settled Jews there and built it up, and it became Ir Dovid, the City of Dovid.

Beyond his own lifetime, his family played one of the most important roles in our history. His son Shlomo Hamelech gave us Mishlei, Shir Hashirim and Koheles. All the chachmei hadoros came from the Bais Dovid, including Hillel, Rabban Gamliel and Rabbi Yehudah Hanasi. Bais Dovid also gave us the line of the Reish Galusa. Later, the line of Rashi, the Maharal and many of our greatest teachers also trace their roots back to Dovid Hamelech.

Dovid Hamelech gave us the future. Three times a day in Shemoneh Esrei we say, “Es tzemach Dovid avdecha meheirah satzmiach.” Moshiach will sprout from the seed of Dovid.

And what were Dovid’s roots? A giyores from the fields of Moav.

Two Paths

When Naomi heard that Hashem had pity on Eretz Yehuda and that the crops were good and they had food to eat, she returned to Bais Lechem. But she was returning in the most desperate, destitute and humble of circumstances. Her husband Elimelech had died. Her sons, Machlon and Kilyon, had died. All that remained were her two Moavi daughters-in-law.

However, these girls loved her dearly and didn’t want to forsake her. They decided to leave their homes and their country and go with Naomi.

Naomi had pity on them. “You’re going to a strange country,” she told them. “You’ll be strangers in a strange land, foreigners coming into a foreign faith. Everything will be foreign to you. You’ll have no future.” They heard her, but kept walking along the road with her.

“Shovna,” Naomi pleaded. “Go back home and marry your own people.”

They refused and kept walking. Naomi persisted, so much so that Orpah finally gave in. Orpah kissed her and said goodbye; they wept and went on their way.

Sometimes a person comes to a crossroads in life and has two paths to choose from. One leads to eternal life and one leads to spiritual death. Orpah chose the latter.

The Mother of Royalty

“V’Rus davka bah — but Rus clung to her.” Rus refused to go back.

“Why don’t you return to your people, too?” Naomi pressed her.

“Nothing will move me,” Rus said. “Wherever you go, I will go. Your people will be my people. Elokayich Elokoi — your G-d is my G-d. Wherever you die, I’ll be buried with you.”

She refused to go back.

For that great act of loyalty, of clinging to Naomi, Rus was rewarded by becoming the ancestress of Dovid Hamelech.

Rav Miller explains that loyalty wasn’t just a one-time act in Rus, but a middah she earned and burned into her soul, and which was passed on to her descendants. It’s the middah that set Rus on her path toward becoming the mother of Jewish royalty. But Rus needed another middah to bring out all the latent greatness in her soul. This middah would characterize her and all of her descendants: the middah of tznius

Where Does This Girl Come From?

In those days, the poor would pick gleanings in the fields after the reapers reaped. One day, as Rus was retrieving the gleanings, she caught the attention of Boaz.

Boaz was a very great man. He was a shofet, a judge. He was a highly respected aristocrat among his people, and he was a direct descendant of the family of Nachshon ben Aminadav. As Boaz was overseeing his fields, he happened to notice Rus, and he inquired, “L’mi hana’arah hazos? ” To whom does this girl belong?”

A strange question. What did he see that made him ask such a question?

“SHOVNA,” NAOMI PLEADED. “GO BACK HOME AND MARRY YOUR OWN PEOPLE”

He saw that she picked from the standing grain, not from the pieces of grain that fell to the ground. She didn’t bend over, and she didn’t stoop down. If she had to reach the ground, she crouched down. Now, gleaning is a competitive business. There are a lot of poor people, and each tries to get the fallen grain first. You need to hustle just to get a day’s bread. And here was a girl who needed that barley to survive. And still, she wouldn’t bend over. Others probably snatched a lot of barley out from under her nose, but she didn’t surrender her principles.

When Boaz saw that, he said, “L’mi hana’arah hazos? Who is responsible for a girl like that?” He wanted to know who was responsible for that behavior. Where did such principled tznius come from?

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When they told him that “she returned with Naomi from the fields of Moav,” he understood. Naomi had instructed and guided her. Rus’ exceptional middos were not a coincidence.

Her tznius set off a chain of events that resulted in her marrying Boaz and becoming the mother of Malchus Bais Dovid.

The Siman on the Diamond Box

Rav Miller explains that the entire Malchus Bais Dovid started from tznius Great people are chosen for greatness by Hashem because of their tznius. They need other qualities, too, but tznius has a unique place in the gallery of great middos. Imagine diamonds locked in a box. The best middos are like diamonds, but they’re locked in a box, lying in the garbage heap. Nobody notices that box. Even if they did, they’d never think there was anything valuable inside. When the garbage collectors come, they take the box and dump it in the river along with the rest of the garbage.

BUT IF THE BOX HAS A SIMAN ON THE OUTSIDE, A SIGN INDICATING THERE’S SOMETHING OF REAL VALUE INSIDE, THEY WON’T THROW IT AWAY, AND THE DIAMONDS WILL BE RESCUED

But if the box has a siman on the outside, a sign indicating there’s something of real value inside, they won’t throw it away, and the diamonds will be rescued.

That’s how Rus was zoche to become the mother of Malchus Bais Dovid. Her tznius was a siman that there were diamonds inside.

Tznius:

More Than Clothing

There’s more to tznius than clothing. The Tur (Orach Chaim 2:1) describes how a Yid dresses. When he’s disrobing, he should try to remain as covered as possible. Why is it necessary to remain tznius even in private? The answer is that tznius is not for others. It’s not even for Hashem. It’s for you. It creates an awareness that Hashem is present in your mind. And that awareness should be constant, whether there are others

present or not.

Rav Miller explains that tznius is based on emunah; it’s the awareness that Hashem is present. That’s the great principle here. Emunah should not just be in your mind, but also in your actions. When you act correctly even when no one can see you, you demonstrate your awareness that Hashem can see you. Dressing with tznius shows that a person is aware of Hashem’s constant presence.

The

Crown Jewel

Klal Yisroel had many kings who were tzaddikim, but Dovid HaMelech was superior in his emunah chushis, his “tangible” emunah. He didn’t merely say that he was aware of Hashem, he felt it. “Hashem ro’i lo echsar — Hashem is my Shepherd, I shall not lack” (Tehillim 24:1). He felt like a sheep being fed by his Shepherd.

Dovid didn’t just talk about Hashem. He experienced Hashem. And because he did so with such exceptional feeling, we repeat his great words in Tehillim in the hope that we’ll absorb his faith and become like him.

Dovid Hamelech’s greatness was the result of his constant pursuit of emunah. There was no time that he wasn’t thinking of Hashem. Either he was asking for help or thanking Him. He was in constant contact with Hashem.

And the roots of his emunah came from Rus, his greatgrandmother, from the thoughts she bore in her heart and the words she expressed to her mother-in-law on a lonely dirt road in a foreign country. And it was all made possible by her tznius, which alerted Boaz to the fact that she was a great person with many great middos Tznius is the sign on the box of diamonds, alerting others to the greatness of the soul inside.

Rus teaches us that seemingly simple acts can have a monumental impact that can echo through the future of our nation’s history. In her case, it culminated in the lineage of Dovid Hamelech, and eventually, Moshiach.

The measure of a person’s greatness is found in silent, uncelebrated and unseen moments. Ultimately, tznius is the middah of royalty. It’s what made Rus the mother of kings.

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AS TOLD TO SIVI SEKULA

BY YEHUDIT MEIRA BITON

Each ger and giyores can fill a book with the story of their journey to Yiddishkeit. What propelled these courageous individuals to leave everything familiar behind and start anew? Certainly, they’re all driven by their quest for truth, and the fact is that their neshamos were right there alongside ours at Har Sinai. Yet each of their stories is unique. What struck me about Yehudit Meira’s journey was that all she wanted was to be a good person. As simple as that! Except, that in this Olam Hasheker, who really knows what is good and what is bad? It was the search for the answer to this question that led her to Hashem and Yiddishkeit.

This is her story.

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I WAS BORN IN BROOKLYN

to a Roman Catholic family. My family is originally from

South America, and we spoke Spanish at home. My parents weren’t very religious, but we did go to church on occasion. I grew up with an understanding that there is a G-d, and that we have to live our lives according to His will. I also knew about the Commandments given at Mount Sinai and how important an event it was, but I had no idea that it was connected to Jews or Judaism.

I remember going to church when I was around ten years old. I remember looking at the stained glass windows and figurines. People were lighting candles near the figurines and praying to them. Then the priest started preaching about the Ten Commandments. He mentioned the first and second commandments, and when he said, “Thou shall not have any other gods,” it struck me that we were sitting there surrounded by many “other” gods.

“This is so weird,” I thought.

And so, at the young age of ten, having noted the inconsistencies of the religion I had been born into, I declared that I was done with Catholicism.

At age twelve, I won a scholarship to a very prestigious college-prep boarding school in Connecticut that counts Robert F. Kennedy and Ivanka Trump among its many famous alumni. At school, I chose to take a class on world religion, thinking that for a girl of my religious background, it would be an easy A. It was in this class that I first heard about Judaism, and how Judaism was the first monotheistic religion. I was amazed to discover that Judaism was a real thing, and that there were actual Jews in the world who practiced their religion. Until then, I had always equated Jews

Having learned that Judaism was the source of many other religions, it occurred to me that this was the religion that made the most sense

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Despite my extensive travels, I returned to university disappointed. I had met many wonderful people, but I felt that there was no real depth to their ideas and lives

with mythical concepts, like the Greek gods, l’havdil. Having learned that Judaism was the source of many other religions, it occurred to me that this was the religion that made the most sense. I remember thinking that if I could be anything, I would choose to be Jewish. But I didn’t know then that converting to Judaism was technically possible.

OBJECTIVE OPINIONS

After graduating high school, I studied at University of Pennsylvania, where I concentrated on getting great grades. I did well in college and managed to snag coveted internships while maintaining a busy social life. I may have been done with religion, but I was still aware that there was a G-d and that I had to behave a certain way. Rather than following any religious dogma, I decided to simply devote my life to doing my best. I naively assumed that humans have an inherent sense of right and wrong, and that all I had to do to be a good person was listen to my intuition. Now I know that humans are naturally subjective, and that we all have different ideas of what is good and what is bad.

In my freshman year at college, I took a class in which a wide range of topics were discussed and debated. I would watch my fellow students confidently express their opinions and couldn’t help but think that, at the end of the day, they were all subjective and couldn’t really prove that their opinions were the objective truth.

I realized then that the same is true of the sciences. Scientists have a habit of basing their conclusions on what is in front of them, without taking into consideration that they may be missing something. This is why science is constantly evolving, and why much of early scientific findings are no longer relevant today. At university, I came to the uncomfortable realization that in the secular world, there was no room for humility.

I continued my studies through my junior year, but all the while, I had this feeling that I wanted to be something more. I’ve always been a voracious reader and the kind of geek that loves learning new things, so I decided that in order to really learn about the world and the people who live in it, I would have to get out there and see it for myself. I took a year off from my schooling and set off with my backpack.

WHERE IS HE?

Throughout my travels, I was trying to find G-d. But I had no idea how to find Him, so I figured I’d find His people instead; maybe they would lead me to the truth. I traveled to South America, Africa, Tanzania and many European countries. I spent a significant amount of time in the Czech Republic and Russia. I immersed myself in these different cultures and learned about different religions. In my naivete, I assumed that religions like Buddhism and Catholicism, while vastly different, were basically the same in how they were intended to help one forge a connection with G-d.

It was only much later, when I finally discovered Yiddishkeit, that I realized that these other religions never brought one to that level. Many religions teach that in order to find spirituality and connection with G-d, one must separate oneself entirely from the physical world. Only Yiddishkeit fuses the physical and spiritual realms totally and completely, with the goal of sanctifying the mundane and thereby bringing us closer to Hashem.

Despite my extensive travels, I returned to university disappointed. I had met many wonderful people, but I felt that there was no real depth to their ideas and lives. None of them were working on bettering themselves. It disturbed me immensely that I still didn’t know how to become a better person.

I

purchased and read many books on different religions,

but I walked away with the feeling that they were all shallow and senseless. I kept coming back to Judaism, because it was the one religion that never changed, which seemed to make the most sense. After reading some Jewish books, I finally made the connection between Har Sinai, the Torah and the Jews, and I even realized that Orthodox Judaism was the authentic version of the religion. It astounded me that the words of the Torah and of Chazal were still relevant thousands of years after they had been written.

Once I discovered that the Torah has been given as our guide on how to live in this world, there was no doubt in my mind that I had to listen to Hashem.

JOURNEY TO JUDAISM

University of Pennsylvania has several Orthodox Jewish organizations that serve Jewish students on campus, including Meor. The executive director of Meor during my time in college was Rabbi Shmuel Lynn. I approached him with my wish to convert to Judaism, but he tried to put me off. He immediately began rattling off all the things I wouldn’t be able to do, and some of the things I would have to do, if I would become a Jew. He didn’t hold anything back; he really went for the shock factor.

I was slightly horrified by some of the things he told me. I went home to mull things over, but I quickly realized that there was nothing to think about. Yes, some of it sounded strange and uncomfortable, but if this was what Hashem wanted, then this was what I was going to do!

I returned to Rabbi Lynn, determined to forge ahead with my path to geirus. I became a regular at the various Jewish student organizations on campus, where I lapped up everything related to Yiddishkeit. I embarked on my journey to Yiddishkeit with absolute commitment; I never doubted that this was how I wanted to live the rest of my life. Nevertheless, it wasn’t easy. It quickly became apparent that my social life, which was so typical of American college students, was no longer appropriate. This was a difficult adjustment for me, but Baruch Hashem, I persevered.

After I graduated, I put my language skills to good use and quickly learned Hebrew. One of the campus organizations was taking Jewish students on a summer trip to Israel, and despite the fact that I was not Jewish, I was somehow able to join the trip. I spent the entire summer studying at a seminary for newcomers in Har Nof. I went all in. In the three months that I spent in Israel, I took upon myself tznius, kashrus and Shabbos, and I even learned to read Rashi script. I was the frummest shiksa ever! When the summer was over, I returned to

Philadelphia, where eventually, at the age of twenty-five, I completed my conversion and became a full-fledged Jew. I married a wonderful man who was part of the Emunas Yisroel community in Brooklyn, and we were blessed with twins, a girl and a boy, after a year of marriage. I was overjoyed! I was a Jew with a husband and two children! I felt that Hashem was rewarding me for pursuing emes and becoming a Yid.

Sadly, however, my happily-ever-after was short-lived. Before my children reached their first birthday, my husband passed away. It was an immensely difficult time for me. I was a fresh widow, alone with two tiny babies, and estranged from my non-Jewish family. But the community rallied around us, and with their support, my children and I pulled through. Today, I am happily remarried. My husband and I live in North Miami Beach with our six children, and I am so grateful to call myself part of the Jewish nation.

I went all in. In the three months that I spent in Israel, I took upon myself tznius, kashrus and Shabbos, and I even learned to read Rashi script

Sourdough

Looking for a Job?

BEFORE ACCEPTING A JOB, ONE SHOULD MAKE SURE THAT:

Men and women refer to each other by last name only.

Men and women sit in separate areas.

The general atmosphere is appropriate and formal.

There are no potential concerns of yichud.

One man and one woman do not have to sit alone in the same room regularly (even if yichud is not an issue).

The company values policies and behavior that adhere to halacha and tznius.

The computers are equipped with strong filters.

The company doesn’t require one to be involved in social media.

Your potential co-workers are not a threat to your spiritual values.

It is not an environment that will cause temptations in the future.

As many girls are now seeking employment in offices, we remind all job seekers of these important

Before accepting a new job, just as one asks about the salary, benefits and applicable policies related to working there, one must also inquire about the spiritual aspects of the office.

One must never be blinded by a few dollars and should remember that the only reason they are working is to fulfill their chiyuv hishtadlus to earn a living. Doing something contrary to Hashem’s will is not a valid hishtadlus.

Parents and husbands are responsible to ensure that their daughter/wife only accepts employment in an upright and appropriate workplace.

It is especially crucial for someone just entering the workforce to have a Rav or Moreh Derech with whom they maintain a personal connection. When a shayla in halacha or hashkafa arises, it should be brought to the Rav to determine the best course of action in accordance with da’as Torah.

A

conversation with Reb Elye Eichler

CHANIE SPIRA

What was it like for a little boy to dress in five layers of clothing to ward off the Yerushalayim cold before starting the day in cheder?

How did it feel to spend your childhood in the holiest city of the world, surrounded by Torah giants disguised as simple melamdim?

What was it like to traverse the same corridors as Rabbi Aryeh Levin, zt”l, Rav Isser Zalman Meltzer, zt”l, and Rabbi Aharon Kotler, zt”l, among many others?

Early Recollections

In honor of Kabbalas HaTorah, The Monsey View sat down to speak with Reb Elye Eichler, shlit”a. Reb Elye was zoche to grow up in avira d’Eretz Yisroel and had the enviable zechus of learning under the greatest of Torah leaders in the famous, hallowed walls of Yeshivas Eitz Chaim.

Yeshivas Eitz Chaim was the first and oldest yeshiva in Yerushalyim, where the greatest gedolim learned. The establishment included a talmud Torah, yeshiva and kollel, all under one roof, which meant that many talmidei chachamim learned in Eitz Chaim from when they were young children until their dying day.

Reb Elye speaks about his childhood with yearning and with nostalgia of beautiful days where he tasted Torah d’Eretz Yisroel in its purest form.

Reb Elye attended Eitz Chaim throughout his formative years. “It’s a place from which you never graduate,” he says. “My grandfather Reb Nechemya Cheshin, z”l, also learned there, from the day he entered kitah alef until his very last day.”

Eitz Chaim reverberated with Torah at all hours of the day. Its name is synonymous with the greatest gedolim of the previous and current generations.

The main Eitz Chaim building was located on Rechov Yaffo in the middle of Machane Yehuda Shuk.

Though Eitz Chaim was fortunate to have a building, the concept of organized transportation did not yet exist.

Therefore, the younger children of kitahs alef, beis and gimmel were housed in local shtieblach throughout the city. At about seven years of age, the boys were consolidated to one large class in the main building.

Reb Elye started kitah alef in 1962 in the Beis Hakneses HaGra (of which Reb Shlomo Zalmen Auerbach, zt”l, served as the rav). Cheder started at 9:00 a.m. after the minyanim Shacharis were over.

In case you’re wondering how the space was transformed from shul to cheder in a matter of minutes, Reb Elye explains, “What did we need? A table and two benches! We didn’t have toys, not even a single matchbox car or basic blocks.”

But boys don’t need much more than their imagination. The melamed would place a plate of assorted raw beans on the table, and the children would fashion them into little cars or trains, and their imagination provided them with all the en-

tertainment they needed.

They didn’t have much in terms of food to keep them going, either, but they had the devotion and warmth of their melamed, as Reb Elye’s first grade report card attests, and that was all that mattered.

The History of Yeshivas Eitz Chaim

Yeshivas Eitz Chaim was established in 1841 by the Talmidei HaGra called the Perushim. (Perushim is literally translated as “separate.” They sought to separate themselves from the impurities of the world by immersing themselves in a life of Torah and kedusha.)

Rav Shmuel Salant, zt”l, the Rav of Yerushalayim, was at the yeshiva’s helm. The first official home for the cheder was in the famed Churva Shul in the Old City of Yerushalayim.

Rabbi Yechiel Michel Tikuchinsky, zt”l, a tremendous gaon and the one responsible for many intricate calendar and zmanim related rulings that are still used today, served as the rosh yeshiva of Eitz Chaim starting around the turn of the 19th century. In 1908, thanks to the largesse of philanthropists overseas, the yeshiva was able to purchase a plot on Rechov Yaffo to accommodate the growing student body.

In 1925, Rabbi Isser Zalman Meltzer, zt”l, was appointed rosh yeshiva with Rabbi Aryeh Levin, zt”l, serving as the mashgiach. After Rav Isser Zalmen passed away, his son-in-law, Rabbi Aharon Kotler, zt”l, was appointed rosh yeshiva. In an unusual arrangement, he held this position while continuing to live in the United States.

Rav Shach, zt”l, was the next gadol to assume the mantle of leadership. He delivered shiurim to the students of the kollel and yeshiva, inspiring a generation to achieve true Torah greatness.

A great-grandson of Rav Shmuel Salant, Rabbi Nissan Tikuchinsky, zt”l, the son of Rabbi Yechiel Michel Tikuchinsky, zt”l, led the institution faithfully until he passed away in 2012.

Three Cheshin brothers, descendants of the illustrious Cheshin family, played a major role in the cheder. They were all supremely intelligent and came up with the most innovative ideas. One of them was the first to create a kriah curriculum and sefer, similar to today’s alef binah. Another Cheshin brother created Sefer Hamelamdim, which was a guide on how to teach and translate according to a standardized system. This sefer reached melamdim worldwide.

Beis Hakneses HaGra where Reb Elye started kitah alef

Reb Elye’s report card

Rav Shmuel Salant, zt”l

Rav Isser Zalman Meltzer, zt”l

Kitahs beis and gimmel worked a bit differently. They shared one melamed in a different shtiebel. In the morning, the melamed taught one class while the other half chazzered on the next bench, and in the afternoon, he switched and taught the other group. The only additional piece of furniture in the room was another table and benches.

During the years that they learned in the local shtieblach, the children would go home for their lunch break and come back to continue learning in the afternoon.

Yeshivas Eitz Chaim, 1965 - Rechov Yaffo

Visitors and residents of Yerusha-

layim who have visited the Machane Yehuda Shuk on Rechov Yaffo have surely noticed the stately, stone archway right in the middle of the shuk leading to the historical building of Eitz Chaim. Depending on which side of Yerushalayim the boys came from, they used the entrance either on Rechov Yaffo or in the middle of Machane Yehuda Shuk.

Though the building is no longer in use because the neighborhood became unsuitable for a cheder, the façade of the building remains. The municipality considers the archway and exterior of the building a historical landmark that cannot be destroyed, but the inside of the building has been gutted to accommodate commerce.

Shaarei Chesed Memories

Reb Elye grew up in what he calls the “old, narrow geselach ” of Shaarei Chesed.

In terms of amenities, three families shared access to a single bathroom. The central courtyard was designed in a genius architectural manner that granted access to all three families.

“We used the shul’s facilities a lot,” Reb Elye says. “We didn’t make a big deal about it.”

The house in which Reb Elye grew up had one very large main room. Since the walls were almost three feet thick, the family fashioned shelves into the walls and put up pretty doors. In this one room, there was a large eating area, sitting area, sewing area and playing area. The kitchen was more like an oversized closet and wasn’t part of the apartment.

In addition to this one room, there was another very small room. In that room, there was a bed with a pullout bed underneath. Two kids slept on each bed, and the baby slept in a little crib off to the side. In this manner, they managed to put five children in a few square meters.

For parnassah, Reb Elye’s father tutored bachurim in the evening. They learned in the tiny bedroom because the main room was too noisy, but the sleeping children barely stirred.

And that’s how Reb Elye and his siblings grew up: in a home that was happy, content and steeped in kedusha

The Bloomberg Gate in Shaarei Chesed

The narrow streets of Shaarei Chesed

The stone archway right in the middle of the shuk leading to the historical building of Eitz Chaim

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Connecting to Gedolei Yisroel of yesteryear to build your future You will Laugh. You will Cry. You will Sing. You will Hear. You will strengthen your connection to yourself, your future and Torah Hakdoishe like never before! An experience that will become part of you! Be inspired by powerful shiurim and messages that will impact you and stay with you, forever!

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An experience that will become part of you!

An experience that will become part of you!

An experience that will become part of you!

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Be inspired by powerful shiurim and messages that will impact you and stay with you, forever!

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DAV EN BY OUR GEDOLEI TORAH

BU ILDING ON THE BLUEPRINT

Connecting to Gedolei Yisroel of yesteryear to build your future

Connecting to Gedolei Yisroel of yesteryear to build your future

Connecting to Gedolei Yisroel of yesteryear to build your future

DAV EN BY OUR GEDOLEI TORAH

DAV EN BY OUR GEDOLEI TORAH

DAV EN BY OUR GEDOLEI TORAH

The Remah, The Bach, Megaleh Amukos, Tosfos Yom Tov, Reb Elimelech M’Lizhensk, Netziv, R’ Chaim Brisker, Chemdas Shlomo, Chidushei Harim, Sfas Emes and much more BU ILDING ON THE BLUEPRINT

DAV EN BY OUR GEDOLEI TORAH

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The Remah, The Bach, Megaleh Amukos, Tosfos Yom Tov, Reb Elimelech M’Lizhensk, Netziv, R’ Chaim Brisker, Chemdas Shlomo, Chidushei Harim, Sfas Emes and much more

The Remah, The Bach, Megaleh Amukos, Tosfos Yom Tov, Reb Elimelech M’Lizhensk, Netziv, R’ Chaim Brisker, Chemdas Shlomo, Chidushei Harim, Sfas Emes and much more

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Uplifting and inspirational shabbos together in Krakow

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Uplifting and inspirational shabbos together in Krakow

Uplifting and inspirational shabbos together in Krakow

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Warsaw, Kozienice, Lublin, Lizensk, Bobov, Sanz , Majdanek, Lancut, Auschwitz, Auschwitz Birkenau and much more

Uplifting and inspirationa shabbos togeth in Krakow

Warsaw, Kozienice, Lublin, Lizensk, Bobov, Sanz , Majdanek, Lancut, Auschwitz, Auschwitz Birkenau much more

From all corners of Yerushalayim, hundreds of boys made their way to cheder every morning, filling the hallways with sounds of Torah. They came from Shaarei Chesed, Meah Shearim, Katamon, The Old City and more. Huddled in groups, they climbed the hilly streets in the Mediterranean heat, in the bone-chilling cold, and of course, under the startlingly blue sky.

“There was almost no classroom discipline necessary,” Reb Elye says. The boys behaved like boys, but they instinctively sensed the kedusha and true love of Torah that permeated the air, and they all learned for many, many hours a day.

Cheder legend had it that one of the melamdim, Rabbi Yisroel Usher Rotman, had gotten hold of a lion’s tail. How had he managed that? No one knew for sure. But woe onto the boy who would get a taste of it. Reb Elye doesn’t recall anyone ever actually seeing it.

Another melamed was famous for his savlanos, but while the boys all knew that it was hard to get his hand to reach for the stick, once he did, he didn’t stop so quickly.

They learned Chumash as a study unto itself. Every kitah

A Terrifying Day

covered about five to seven parshiyos in depth. As a fourth grader, at barely seven years old, Reb Elye remembers learning Parshas Metzora with Rabbi Mordechai Cheshin, z”l. “I knew it better then than I know it today,” he admits, referring to the intricate dinim involved.

Reb Elye even remembers the Ponevezh Rav, zt”l, farhering him when they once vacationed together. The Rav was so impressed by his knowledge that he kissed him on his forehead, handed him a coin, and told Reb Elye’s father that his son was invited to join his yeshiva when he grows up.

The boys accrued hours and hours of Torah learning in cheder. The report cards enumerated how many hours the boys spent learning Torah and how many hours they learned general studies. It’s no wonder that countless of Eitz Chaim graduates illuminated the world with their Torah.

Food for the SoulThe Beis Hatavshil

Shortly after the Six Day War in 1967, Eitz Chaim was the epicenter of the first large-scale terrorist attack in Yerushalayim.

In the shuk, right next to the cheder, a car filled with explosives detonated, killing many people, Hy”d. The chaos, hysteria and fear paralyzed the city, and especially the children in cheder. The entire building shook, and panic ensued.

The scene was horrifying. Many were killed, even more were wounded, and everyone was shell-shocked.

“I vividly remember the military descending into the cheder yard,” says Reb Elye. “They were trying to take control of an uncontrollable situation.” Whoever looked Arabic was handcuffed and brought to the cheder courtyard. “We went out of our minds with fear watching the goings-on!”

The Arabs were told to face the wall while they were tapped down and questioned.

“We were in no shape to walk home that day, so our dear menahel, Harav Nissan Tikuchinsky, took it upon himself to get us home safely. He owned an old station wagon. He lowered all the seats, and we filed into the car, one neighborhood at a time. The melamdim kept watch over us until all children were safely dispatched.”

Reb Elye will never forget his mother’s panic-stricken tears as they arrived home, safe and sound but trembling with fear.

Reb Elye describes the Beis Hatavshil, the lunchroom, at length, and I can’t help but compare it to today’s bounty. It operated as a separate entity to the ruchnius of the cheder, and served the cheder boys who lived too far away. The Bais Hatavshil served the yeshiva bochurim and the yungeleit as well.

There were no printed menus with food choices or a selection of foods. The boys were happy to have at least one meal to fill their stomachs.

Every Rosh Chodesh, Reb Elye Solomon, z”l, another famed Yerush-

Reb Elye’s report card, marking the number of hours he spent in learning

.בוט םוי ןעכיליירפ א

almi figure, would sit at the entrance and collect three liras from every child to cover their lunch expenses for the month. He would then hand each child a candy. For children who hardly had any extras, these candies were a true highlight.

What was on the menu, you’re wondering? On many days, the boys received beans — simple cooked beans in meager quantities, which the melamdim doled out from the tray. On Tuesdays, they received the Turkish version of cinnamon tea. They sipped their hot drinks with glee, despite knowing that this was the entirety of their meal. Once a week, to the delight of the hungry boys, they were served some kind of fish patties, which made them feel fuller than ever.

He remembers the few years when they received a half cup of chocolate milk and a small roll, funded by a grant. Those were the “zatte yaren,” the years of plenty. Otherwise, it was ever-present hunger at home and in cheder

As an illustration of the rampant poverty, on one occasion a little girl stood outside the Beis Hatavshil with a bowl. “I came to pick up my brother’s lunch because he didn’t come to cheder today,” she said.

Reb Elye, however, was fortunate. His illustrious greatgrandfather, Reb Nechemya Cheshin, z”l, learned with Rabbi Isser Zalmen Meltzer, zt”l, b’chavrusa every day. On the way to kollel, his grandfather would pass the shuk and pick up the previous day’s overripe fruit for a pittance, which he generously shared with his grandchildren during recess time.

Weather Conditions

Who even knew of air conditioning back then? But the heat was not what intimidated anybody; it was the cold that did. While Yerushalayim has moderate weather conditions most of the year, the cold is utterly bone-chilling, with rainy weather heralding frosty drafts that would make their way through the crevices of the buildings and homes.

The cheder building was old and poorly insulated, and most of the windows didn’t close properly. To keep their children warm, the mothers were adept at dressing them in layers ahead of the fifteen-minute walk and long day.

Every morning, they would stay in their thermal long-sleeved underwear and pa-

jamas. On top of that, they would put on a shirt and pants, and then a warm sweater. Then they were ready to face the day.

Their little feet, too, were protected by layers. A pair of socks, a plastic bag on top of the socks to keep the rain out, another pair of socks, and finally, shoes.

These measures did help somewhat, but even under all these layers, little fingers and toes were numb by the time they arrived home from cheder

Not that it was much better at home. In Shaarei Chesed, heating was an unheard-of luxury, and coming home meant going from freezing to simply cold. Reb Elye’s mother would gently rub his fingers and toes for a few minutes next to the oldfashioned primus stove and heat a pot of water to create a bit of steam.

The heat was also something to contend with. Two fans lazily whirred in the classroom through the summer, and at recess time, the boys simply washed up to cool down. Every evening, they eagerly awaited the breeze that would break the heat of the day.

Around the Year

The Yiddish calendar provided all the entertainment necessary to keep the boys busy. The only thing the activities had in common was that they were all free.

R: Reb Elye’s great-grandfather Reb Elye Porush, z”l, who was menahel in Eitz Chaim; L: His Son Reb Shlomo Zalmen, z”l, who was menahel afterward

At the tnoim of Reb Nechemya Cheshin’s daughter. 1: Reb Elye’s great-grandfather Harav Nechemya Cheshin, zt”l; 2: Reb Yisroel Yitzchok Reisman, zt”l; 3: Reb Pinchas Epstein, zt”l; 4: Reb Yochanan of Rachmistrivke, zt”l; 5: Reb Yisroel Yaakov Fisher, zt”l

From the day after Pesach until Lag Ba’omer, the boys collected combustibles for their large hadlakos

The competition reached an all-time high as the calendar moved closer to Lag Ba’omer. Construction sites and garbage dumps were ransacked for goodies, with the booty stashed in safe places, with improvised locks and 24-hour security. Broken household furniture was a priceless treasure as well.

One memorable season, one team of boys found out that another team was stashing tires in a building’s safe room located in the Batei Varsha. The room was well locked, so the competing team threw some kerosene and a match through a crack, and the entire tire stash went up in flames.

“When it came to Purim,” Reb Elye says with a smile, “from Rosh Chodesh Adar and on, it was hoich Yom Tov!”

Each night after their Masmidim Chanoch L’Naar, the boys would randomly choose a house to imbue a bit of simcha and chaos. Together, they would open the door and burst in singing and dancing around the table. Most of these homes had one main room, which served as the family’s dining, playing, cooking, sewing and sleeping quarters. The boys’ antics created complete bedlam.

On a more serious note, Reb Elye well recalls Erev Rosh Hashanah in cheder. Rabbi Chaim Yudel Yaakovson, z”l, a famous Torah figure and Rosh Hamelamdim, assembled all the children in the main hall-

Talmidim of Eitz Chaim at Kever Rochel

The yeshiva building on Rechov Yaffo

The kids preparing the Lag Ba’omer hadlakah

way, and face aflame, he review malchiyus, zichronos and shofros with a haunting nusach.

He explained the order of the pesukim, the meaning of every V’neemar, and how it segued from Torah to Neviim and Kesuvim.

“It went into our bones. Though we were so young and understood little, when Rosh Hashanah came, we shook with fear and awe! Only when I grew older was I fully able to internalize all that I learned during those sessions from Reb Chaim Yudel.”

Filling Minds, Nourishing Souls

In the summer months, the boys played machanayim. Though a real ball was mostly an out-of-reach luxury, the boys improvised. They would slice a grapefruit in half, remove all the pulp, and reassemble the fruit into a ball. Then they would then tie rubber bands around it to create a bounce, and the game was in full, juicy swing.

The boys also played plenty of hide-and-seek and tic-tactoe. The boys would “chap balatas (tiles),” using the tiles as their board. One boy had pebbles, the other one used buttons, and the competition was on.

Of course, recess time didn’t exist without kugelach, which were usually little stones. Some lucky boys did own a real set, though.

At one point, the boys developed a way to fashion a fan out of apricot pits. The boys engineered a system of holes, and they pulled strings through it.

“You’d have to see it to understand it,” Reb Elye remembers with a smile. “We would rub those pits until we fashioned holes. It kept us busy for hours.”

There were no trips, no vacation days except for a shorter day on Rosh Chodesh and Isru Chag, and no incentive programs. Yet the boys loved cheder. Their souls

were nourished, and their brains lapped up all they learned, resulting in a generation of true Torah luminaries.

REB ELYE’S TRIP down

memory lane took us through the ancient cobblestone streets of Yerushalayim and past the old brick walls of his beloved cheder. Clearly, being a talmid of Eitz Chaim created more than childhood memories; it was a foundational experience that impacted generations.

A certificate Reb Elye received in Eitz Chaim

On the way to Reb Elye’s upsherin; on the right is his father Reb Eliezer, Boyaner Rav of Boro Park, zt”l

Reb Elye as a bachur in Yerushalayim

The talmidim on a trip

A new service is being launched by

In cases where you are halachically permitted on Shabbos or Yom Tov to:

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By the Chaverim Shabbos-Goyim, is here to serve you.

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Next-door neighbors from different cultures

Freelancers who share a skill, but not a language

Coworkers separated by age and tradition

We stood side by side at the mountain 3,336 years ago.

How different are we, really?

Here and There

HADASSAH STEINMAN AND AVIGAIL DIAMOND

They live by their mesorah, with their minhagim, and we live by our mesorah, with our minhagim

Hadassah

I first met Avigail’s two little girls while I was outside keeping an eye on my own two daughters. The four girls were friends in no time, language barrier notwithstanding, and I was simply grateful that I met her kids before I met Avigail herself. (Kids make it easier for adults to get acquainted — “Your daughter’s adorable! How old is she?”)

In any case, I soon met Avigail and her baby (another girl), and both because I like to be a mensch, and also because company was a little scarce in our neighborhood, I said hi and something like, “Your girls are adorable! How old are they?”

While Avigail and I stood there and made small talk, I could almost touch the nonjudgmental judgment bouncing back and forth. In truth, there probably wasn’t any judgment at all, only the fear of judgment. In my mind, I was sure Avigail was thinking, “Oh, she’s chassidish… Listen to that accent, my goodness!”

But then we graduated from small talk and began chatting about our kids and our respective careers, and all of a sudden, we were two adults having a pleasant conversation.

Over the next few weeks, the weather grew warmer, and Avigail’s kids and my own spent progressively more time enjoying the outdoors together. Soon I discovered that this charming young mother wearing cute red ballet flats I would never glance at in a store had so much in common with me, more so than plenty of people who look more like I do. Avigail and I both have classic Type A personalities, and we’re both high

Avigail

It’s thirty minutes to candlelighting. Racing against the clock, I grab a cordless phone from the kitchen counter and return it to its cradle. Pausing for a moment, I glance up at the handwritten list of important numbers taped to the wall above the phone base, and my eyes snag on the fifth number on the list: Raizy and Chaya Steinman, my daughters’ friends from our previous neighborhood.

It happened in March 2021, when my baby was only twelve weeks old. It was a mild day, and my kids were playing outside. My oldest suddenly burst into the house. “Ma! We have new neighbors! We’re friends already!”

I marveled at how quickly kids are able to make friends, wishing I could have some of that social ease in my back pocket to pull out in situations like this.

“Oh, really?” I said. “I should probably come say hello to their mother, no?”

I put on my friendly neighbor hat and headed out. A few doors down, I spotted a woman talking to a four-year-old girl.

“That’s them,” my Bracha stage-whispered.

I studied Mrs. New Neighbor from afar, and noticed that she was wearing the same snood as me, the same long slinky skirt, and the same black coat, your typical “mom outfit” for women between the ages of twenty and fifty.

Mrs. New Neighbor looked up, noticed me, and smiled warmly.

“Hi!” she said. “Your kids are adorable! My girls have been playing with them for the last half hour.

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achievers who think too much, worry even more, are probably too rigid for our own good, and have mellowed with time by being married to our similarly laid-back husbands. (Hashem knows what He’s doing when He makes these matches.)

Over the summer, we had endless frank conversations about our respective cultures (shidduchim, food, minhagim, raising our kids), and we learned a lot and laughed even more. Our kids, especially, were the source of much laughter. Her kids learned to say, “Yuh?” along with a smattering of Yiddish words, and my kids spoke in some kind of English-Yiddish hybrid with absolutely zero shame. It was the sweetest thing.

The strangest part of getting to know Avigail and her lovely family was that our lives mirrored each others’ in so many ways, even though we looked so different and came from such different backgrounds. My husband sports a beard and curly peyos, and her husband is a clean-shaven guy with a down hat.

But guess what? Both work in klei kodesh, both learn the daf every day, and both kept celebrating siyumim as the months went by. In fact, Avigail and I spent countless Shabbos mornings outdoors together while our husbands learned the daf (separately) after making Kiddush.

We’re so excited to have other young kids around to play with!”

I introduced myself, and then we played a little Jewish geography, but surprisingly, we didn’t come up with any hits. It seemed as if we lived in two different worlds. Despite that, we hit it off immediately and schmoozed happily for the next hour. I guess sometimes I can make friends quickly, too!

These are the details I learned in that hour.

My new neighbor was chassidish (I am a proud Sefardi).

Her name was Steinman (our name is Diamond, which almost rhymes).

She was a prolific kids’ book author (I’ve always wanted to write a kids book!).

She loves, loves, loves to read (like me).

She’s the youngest of her family (like me).

Her kids learned to say, “Yuh?” along with a smattering of Yiddish words, and my kids spoke in some kind of English-Yiddish hybrid with absolutely zero shame

I felt like my kids learned the most beautiful thing from Avigail’s family: There are many wonderful, ehrliche Yidden in this world, and that we, as chassidim, are no more worthy than those looking different from us.

“They are living by their mesorah, with their minhagim, and we are living by our mesorah, with our minhagim,” I told them. “But we’re all the most amazing Yidden, and Hashem loves us all the same.”

I pointed out some areas where our minhagim were different. As Sefardim, Avigail’s family would never eat fish with dairy, for instance. But we didn’t partake when they made some Duncan Hines brownies, and that was okay, too.

My greatest regret is that the language barrier was too much for our husbands to overcome. They share so many values, and are alike in so many ways, and while they exchanged words here and there, I felt like there was so much potential that went untapped.

Both of us have since moved away from the neighborhood, but having had the opportunity to get to know Avigail and her family is a gift I still don’t take for granted. Besides learning how little exteriors matter, I also gained a great friend.

We were neighbors for two years. We entertained our kids together on vacation days (although our kids’ vacations did not sync at all, somehow we managed). I got the lowdown on the best taxi company to use. (Message me privately if you want that scoop.) My kids learned how to speak Yiddish, and the Steinman girls learned how to speak fluent English. We laughed at how different our minhagim were, and snickered at how similar our husbands were. We rolled our eyes at each other when our hot, tired and kvetchy kids asked for their third freeze pops on Shabbos afternoon, and we consulted with one another regarding the emotional, physical and spiritual health of our children.

A year has passed since we both moved to different neighborhoods, but the ties are still strong. I’m still wearing that new lipstick Hadassah told me about, and she still sings my kids’ camp cheers in her head as she folds laundry.

We recently played another round of Jewish geography, and even though her grandparents came from Europe while mine came from Turkey and America, it turns out her sister is friends with my parents’ neighbor’s daughter. Not bad, huh?

It’s things like that make an old neighbor a friend for life.

Same Difference

ESTHER ADLER AND ESTHER KING

Sometimes we’re collectively afraid of our differences. But that’s what creates the value in the relationship

Esther Adler

My friendship with Esther King came about through a distinguished shadchan: Etka Gitel Schwartz. Etka Gitel sent me Esther’s contact info when I was looking to outsource a writing project. I was so intimidated to reach out to a recommendation coming from Etka Gitel, I revised and edited that introductory email about ten times. The result was a formal, stilted message, laden with the heaviest and most archaic of English phrases.

I did not get a formal, stilted message in response. Instead, I got a polite and friendly email. Fifty-five hundred million emails followed. Sometimes I bump into one of those initial emails, and I laugh and cringe at the same time. Clearly, I was out to prove to Esther that I’m at once supremely intelligent and uproariously funny. Esther, who was naturally supremely intelligent and uproariously funny, saw straight through my act. Prudently, she pointed out all my embarrassing mistakes. (She continues to do so to this day, whether I like it or not.)

Looking back, I think I know what made me act that way. Here I was, a chassidish girl from a Yiddish-speaking home, and although I always spoke English with my friends, and I was 100% fluent, it was undeniably a second language. So I had a complex around this new non-chassidish friend who didn’t even know Yiddish. Also, at that stage I was very into reading classic literature, so “good writing” for me meant styles similar to Leo Tolstoy, John Steinbeck and Mark Twain. Not the kind of language you use when emailing a friend. Not

Esther King

You know how some kids have imaginary friends?

And some kids have pen pals?

And then you grow up and you have old friends, new friends, coworkers, neighbors, in-laws, outlaws and we’re-like-sisters?

Well, then there’s Esther.

How did I meet Esther? Let’s see if I can remember. She’s a writer and I’m a writer, and one day, more than a decade ago, she wanted to subcontract a writing project, so she asked Etka Gitel Schwartz, another writer who’s a dear friend of mine (foreshadowing right there) for a name, and she referred her to me. The job sounded easy, so even though I was super busy, I accepted, and I was totally blindsided when Esther schmoozed a little in one of our initial emails.

I schmoozed a little back, just to be polite, and here we are, over a decade later, still schmoozing.

We schmoozed about the writing industry. And the weather. And recipes. Of course.

And we schmoozed every day. A hundred times a day. For a while it felt like she was my imaginary friend. No one in my world knew who Esther was, so I could never quote anything she said without an explanation, and then it was so awkward: “I got this idea from… someone… like, I once did some writing for her… and, whatever.”

Then I figured it out: She was my pen pal. Still awkward to explain, but at least there was a word for it. Sometimes I said “coworker,” because we did kind of,

• Board Certified of Orthodontists

• Over 20 years of experience

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even a non-chassidish friend.

Because what do you know? Non-chassidish girls aren’t all that different from chassidish girls. Oh, yes, culturally they’re a different species, and in the beginning, a large part of our relationship revolved around analyzing those differences. But on a person-to-person basis, once the intimidation receded, it was incredible to discover a friend in Esther. I can’t say we’re the same type — we’re really not — but our common interest in reading and writing led to endless (intelligent and funny) email threads.

For many years, our communication was limited to email. We liked it that way. In addition to the fact that both of us are writers — and email is definitely the most enjoyable form of writing — it felt safe. I was able to delete stuff before sending, or go back to a message to figure out what she meant.

At one point, on a dare, we exchanged pictures. I remember telling her that she had an “open face,” and the next six hundred emails were devoted to analyzing what “open face” meant.

I’ll never forget the first time we spoke. Her voice was a complete shock, and from the first time I heard it, whatever intimidation had previously existed completely dissolved.

And what did we talk about? Writing, of course. We discussed a story I was working on, with Esther sharing a phenomenal idea on how to pull my entire story together.

Esther taught me how to get rid of all my fancy almost-words, and I taught her how to bake kokosh cake. All along, just for the fun of it, we argued about our differences, trying — seriously just for the fun of it — to get the other to come around to our way of thinking.

One of the things that are special about our relationship is that we don’t move in the same circles. This allows us to share things that are going on in our lives without the other party being involved or invested in the dynamics. It’s a blessing to have such an unbiased (and intelligent and funny) sounding board in my life.

sort of, work together on our individual writing projects, and at least that term didn’t raise any eyebrows. But as time went on we shared so many things. Simchas in our families. Tragedies in Klal Yisroel. Decisions we were agonizing over. Writing projects. And when I say “as time went on,” I really mean it. It did go on… and on… and we were still emailing back and forth. Eventually, I started thinking of her as a friend. Eventuallyeventually, I started thinking of her as an old friend. Ack!

Esther enhanced my life in so many ways. She kept me company. She totally got my fascination with cool words. She taught me how to make babka, which even my mother doesn’t know how to do (see, we really do come from different worlds). When I complained how poor frum fiction is, she dared me to try writing some

Eventually, Esther had an opportunity to visit me in my house. I spent all morning debating if I should put on a sheitel or stay in a snood, but I like to believe that it was excitement rather than intimidation that gave me the jitters.

It’s been (no way, I can’t believe it!) over fourteen years since we got to know each other. Esther still doesn’t speak Yiddish, although she’s picked up many words along the way. And although English will always remain my second language, I like to believe that my writing is smoother and more natural now.

Now I’m very curious to see what Esther is writing about me. I have no choice but to admit that after all these years, I’m still intimidated.

One of the things that are special about our relationship is that we don’t move in the same circles

myself. I did, and writing fiction is still one of the most satisfying projects I publish. I guess it all comes down to a line Esther wrote to me about a year after our first contact: “Two email addicts met.”

Some things, apparently, are just stronger than all of our differences. And we do have tons of differences.

These are the things we have in common:

We’re both frum

We’re both married.

We’re both married to men about a foot taller than us (although I’m significantly taller than Esther).

We both like chocolate.

We both have kids.

We both use the pen name Esther.

These are the things that we do NOT have in common:

I like Mike and Ikes, and Esther doesn’t (she doesn’t eat that hechsher in the first place).

I don’t mind tomatoes, and Esther would never allow one on her plate.

I encourage my kids to play basketball, and Esther’s kids would get kicked out of school if they did that.

I speak English, and Esther speaks Yiddish. I don’t speak a word of Yiddish. I can’t even fake it.

And all sorts of minhagim. And stuff. Tons of stuff. Sometimes it feels like we live on different planets. Why can’t I think of anything specific?

I guess it’s time for me to say that that’s the crux of the matter: The things that bring us together are stronger than the things that divide us. It would be easy to say so, and that’s what you probably expected to find in a piece called “Crossing the Divide.” But it wouldn’t be honest to leave it neatly wrapped in that little trite bow. Because there’s more to it than that: the things that divide us are what makes it so interesting. I think sometimes we’re collectively afraid of our differences. But that’s what creates the value in the relationship.

It’s fascinating to hear about the very different ways we fulfill the very same roles.

It’s exhilarating to debate opposing hashkafos until we shave the issue down to the core point we both agree on.

And sometimes it’s just so liberating to talk to someone who doesn’t know the people in my stories, who’s not a citizen of my life, who doesn’t know more about me than I’ve told them — who, to be honest, doesn’t really know me.

Esther will get this joke: this ending needs work.

But I hope we’ll just keep on going.

Worlds Apart

RUCHY ROSENBERG AND SHALVA ROTHSTEIN

I can never finish counting the ways we are the same

Ruchy

Working for a nonprofit has its challenges.

There wasn’t much extra funding for the project I was overseeing — a magazine geared to our members — and I struggled to find the right help. That meant I was always stretched thin, left holding the bag and putting in hours of lonely work on my own. Volunteers who were skilled at writing would contribute periodically, but weren’t willing to commit to regular work. Their time was limited, most of it occupied by using their talents to put bread on the table.

Others who sincerely wanted to help — and did often help — simply did not have the polish or breadth of knowledge to do the work in a way that didn’t require me to clean up after them. Am I an awful delegator? That, too.

One day, Shalva reached out, humbly offering a piece of writing.

This is good stuff, was my first thought as I scanned her submission. This woman gets it. And she knows how to write. If only I could get more contributions like this.

I told her so. I wondered if she had more articles for our magazine.

She did. She contributed her writing, then also helped with editing.

Finally, here was a woman who knew what she was doing. She got the nuances, knew how to create something out of nothing, and knew how to take a poor piece of writing and make it shine. And she had the workaholic streak that helped me keep the magazine going. I had someone on my team!

Shalva

My kids are in the basement, fighting (as usual). When the yelling gets loud enough, I peel myself off the living room couch and head downstairs to investigate. It turns out Chaim nabbed two shtreimels for his mentchie, leaving Zevi with none.

It’s a no-brainer.

“Chaim,” I intone, “you have two shtreimels, and Zevi’s mentchie has none. Please pick the shtreimel you want most, and give the other one to Zevi.” Chaim pouts. “I need both,” he insists. “One is his Shabbos shtreimel and one is his weekday shtreimel.”

I suppress a laugh. “There’s no such thing as a weekday shtreimel!” I retort.

But then something niggles: Wait, maybe there is?

Chaim gives Zevi the second shtreimel, and I dash up to my computer to shoot Ruchy an email.

Hey, Ruchy, no such thing as a weekday shtreimel, right?

See, I’m a born-and-bred Yekke, happily married to my husband who is as applepie-American as they come. But while I’m not sure which chassidus my dear friend Ruchy is from, it’s worlds apart from my very non-chassidish upbringing. And yet, rarely do I ever find myself thinking so in tandem with another being as I do when I speak to Ruchy.

Except that we never actually speak. As in, never. I once heard Ruchy’s voice over the phone when a mutual acquaintance put her on speaker. Aside from those few seconds, I never heard her voice again.

Ruchy claims she speaks with such a thick accent I wouldn’t understand her anyway. I would argue with

Slowly, a chunk of my work shifted to Shalva’s shoulders. Our brains seemed to work in sync. I never felt that I had to give everything another look, didn’t have to explain what needed to be done. There was someone I could delegate to without worrying.

As time went on, our correspondences segued to more personal communication. It wasn’t only about our volunteer work anymore, but also about our respective lives.

The different time zones didn’t interfere with our ability to keep in touch. The different communities we belong to and the various cultural differences didn’t matter as we chatted. Our age difference became meaningless as we laughed and commiserated, planned and shared. So much of what she experienced, and the way she viewed the world, resonated with me.

her on that, except why would I, when I absolutely abhor the phone? Phone calls stress me out. I hate being put on the spot, having to churn out just the right response in just the right amount of time, with just the right inflection. With time, my sneaky suspicions were confirmed — Ruchy feels the same.

Once, we met in person. Mostly we sat there gaping at each other as politely as two grown women could do. There’s not much I remember from that meeting beyond the elegant hat daintily perched atop her short cropped wig. She was so quiet, and so was I. Had any outsider been privy to the rapid volley of emails we regularly exchange, they would be hard-pressed to match those messages to the timid pair we were. All that fire, all that connection — and we just sat, two oh-so-different women, across from each other like schoolchildren on the first day at lunch.

“Hey, Ruchy, no such thing as a weekday shtreimel, right?”

I had someone to let me know how hip and vintage wearing a covered sheitel is.

She had someone to judge how much of her Yekkishe roots were showing.

We exchanged notes about how different it was having a rebbe and rav, respectively, as our moreh derech Our sons turning three sparked discussions about upsherins versus vimples. All this led to my learning about other beautiful Yekkishe lifecycle minhagim.

I didn’t know how large the age gap between us was until I had a talk with Shalva’s mother — because yes, our lives became intertwined enough for that to happen — and she spilled the beans. I was shocked. Turned out Shalva was so young that her talent and intelligence and wisdom in any matter of import just didn’t add up. But, da dum, age is just a number (and both of us cynics snort when we hear trite sayings like that).

We grew up in different countries, lived in different countries, and even when, more recently, she moved to the good ol’ US of A, she’s still an airplane ride away.

We met a total of one time when I traveled to Eretz Yisroel, and that meeting was awkward. Turns out we are two people who turn shy and reserved in person. But we should’ve known that. We had already discussed our aversion to phone calls and social events.

And though life has become busier and busier — who has time for friends? — Shalva is still someone I instinctively reach out to when my soul needs an echo.

For years, Ruchy had almost mythical status in my mind. I never really pictured what she looked like, but I knew she was awesome. As a beneficiary of a support organization, I was a regular recipient of their magazines. Ruchy had the awe-inducing status of editor. Her name was there in the fine print, along with an email address for submissions. I still don’t know what possessed me to reach out to her. I didn’t have much confidence in my writing. I wasn’t quite sure what I even had to say. But I was desperate to say something, to give words to so many thoughts in my mind. And across the ocean, Ruchy heard them all. With patience and skill she took my raw pieces and crafted them into things of beauty. At a time when I was suffering so much, she gave my feelings a voice. And more, she gave my journey a purpose.

Ruchy “got” things that others didn’t. We saw eye to eye on too many things to list. We share a wicked sense of humor. We share parenting styles and struggles. We share anxieties and hopes. We share goals for our children and ambitions for our futures. And we even share a very weak spot for the finer things in life.

Here’s where we’re different: Our hair coverings and stockings don’t match. Our schooling differs. Our husbands speak different languages. She makes upsherins and shlissel challah and probably also p’tcha. She knows the difference between a hyphen and an em dash. And she knows how to space her paragraphs.

Here’s why it doesn’t matter: I can count on her when I need a pick-me-up, no holds barred. I can count on her when I need a good laugh, some encouragement, or a really good shopping find. I can count on her for some hardcore editing that uplevels my work and my mind. And I can count on her to show up (okay, we’re talking about my inbox here, but still) again and again.

Sure, I can count the ways that we’re different.

But I could never finish counting the ways we are the same.

ALL UNDER ONE ROOF

Dear Friends,

I hope this letter finds you healthy and well. It is my sincerest wish that you never have to experience the pain and anguish my family has suffered in the past 2 years with my husband’s illness. Once again I come to you with a heavy heart and a plea for help because now my husband and I are facing a crisis that we never could have imagined. My husband, Zelig, a loving husband, and father, a respected and successful cybersecurity professional - received the devastating and life-changing diagnosis of ALS. His disease progressed at a ferocious pace and within a few months he was completely debilitated - unable to walk, talk, speak, eat, or breathe on his own. Once healthy and active, he now spends his days confined to bed or his wheelchair.

Whereas before, we lived comfortably and could give tzedakah freely. Now, we are struggling to cover the $30,000/month astronomical cost of his medical/care budget which includes aroundthe-clock nursing care, treatments, adaptive equipment, medications, and therapies. – Until Pesach of last year, we were able to cover expenses. However, now our personal funds are completely depleted, our credit cards are at their max, and the influx of donations has been reduced to a trickle. So, there has been a weekly struggle to make payroll for my husband’s caregivers, as well as mounting credit card debt of close to $100K and unpaid bills. The pressure is simply unbearable!

Despite the crushing financial burden, we have been instilled with renewed hope for my husband’s recovery. BH, with a new treatment protocol, he has recently shown small but steady improvement and is gradually regaining movement in his legs and hands! Reversals with ALS are unheard of, and we sincerely hope that this

miracle will continue to unfold. However, unless there is an immediate influx of donations, we will have no choice but to place Zelig in a nursing home.

I must emphasize the urgency and gravity of this situation. Due to my husband’s delicate health condition, a nursing home poses a significant risk to his life. In fact, Rav Chaim Schabbes poskined that it is a matter of pikuach nefesh for him to remain at home. We experienced the devastating consequences of this firsthand a year ago when he suffered repeated severe infections, one of which nearly claimed his life, resulting in a prolonged hospitalization and difficult recovery. It is imperative that we secure the funds for his care at home to not only ensure his safety and survival, but iyH to have a Refuah Shleimah.

It is in this moment of crisis that I humbly appeal to your kind and compassionate heart. Your generous support could help alleviate the financial strain on my family and share the tremendous zchus of the mitzvah of truly saving a life!

Thank you to all those who have already generously contributed in the past. BH, Zelig has continued to see improvements, but our expenses are ongoing. So, your continued support is crucial to keeping this lifeline intact and helping us to navigate this challenging journey with hope, resilience, and peace of mind. If you are able, please consider making a recurring monthly or weekly donation (through the Tomche Shabbos link) or by check. Thank you in advance for your kindness and compassion in our time of need!

Thank you for your time and consideration. Your support during this challenging time would mean the world to me and my family!

With sincere gratitude,

TO CONTRIBUTE:

Online: Tax Deductible contributions can be made by credit card at this link: https://www.rocklandchesednetwork.org/campaign/an-als-story-in-our-community

Mail: Checks can be made out to: Tomchei Shabbos and mailed to:

Zelig Nirenberg Fund c/o Rabbi Markstein

22 N. Rigaud Rd, Spring Valley, NY 10977

Tel: 845-746-1234

Mrs. A. Nirenberg

THE RUBINOV’S BABY IS BURNING WITH FEVER AND COUGHING NON-STOP. COME QUICKLY!

I’M RUNNING TO GET MY EQUIPMENT.

ASAI, TAKE MY NATURAL HERBAL CONCOCTION, TOO.

I HAVE A WAY TO GET RID OF BOTH THE JEW AND ASAI.

TATTY, MAYBE WE SHOULD CALL ASAI MORENO?

SO ALL OF MY FATHER’S SCHEMES FAILED, AND ASAI INTENDS TO REPORT THE MINE TO THE AUTHORITIES — A PROBLEMATIC SITUATION INDEED. THERE’S ONLY ONE OPTION LEFT.

LOOK! OUR FATHER CAME TO HELP.

THIS IS COMING FULL CIRCLE. THAT’S HOW WE MET FOR THE VERY FIRST TIME, ISN’T IT?

YES... AND I SAY NOW, AS I SAID THEN: “LEAVE MONIGOTES.”

AND THIS TIME I AM ADAMANT ABOUT IT. I WON’T HELP YOUR DAUGHTER IF YOU DON’T LEAVE.

I DON’T THINK HE’LL AGREE TO COME. WE’LL HAVE TO TAKE THE RISK AND TRAVEL WITH HER ALL THE WAY TO SANTA FE...

RECAP: TO THE DISMAY OF THE MORENO FAMILY, THE RUBINOV FAMILY MANAGES TO RESTORE THE FARM. JOSE DISCOVERS THAT MISHA KNEW HE WAS DECEIVING HIM ALL ALONG. ASAI OFFERS TO BUY THE RUBINOV FARM IN ANOTHER TWO YEARS, BUT PEDRO, WHO IS AFRAID THE SECRET TUNNEL WILL BE DISCOVERED, LASHES OUT AT HIM.

YOU AND YOUR FAMILY WILL LEAVE THE FARM AS SOON AS THE BABY RECOVERS. I HAVE HALF THE AMOUNT THE FARM IS WORTH. I’LL GIVE IT TO YOU, BUT YOU AND YOUR FAMILY MUST LEAVE.

I FINALLY FOUND THEM A HOME. LOOK AT THEM; MISHA DIDN’T WANT TO STAY HERE EVEN FOR A MINUTE, AND NOW HE SAYS, “IT’S OUR HOME.”

A FEW MINUTES LATER: SHE IS SUFFERING FROM THE SAME BRONCHITIS SHE CONTRACTED ON THE SHIP.

WHAT? LEAVE THE FARM?

OH, HOW TERRIBLE TO WITHHOLD TREATMENT FROM A PATIENT. BUT IT’S FOR THEIR OWN GOOD. IF THEY STAY HERE, PEDRO WILL HARM THEM TO PROTECT HIS GOLD. AFTER WE INVESTED SO MUCH AND PAID OUR DEBT TO THE GOVERNMENT? IT’S OUR HOME!

SHEL

WHAT ARE WE SUPPOSED TO DO?

BUT CHAZAL SAY, “HE WHO SAVES ONE JEWISH SOUL, IT’S AS IF HE SUSTAINED AN ENTIRE WORLD.” A JEWISH LIFE TAKES PRECEDENCE TO PROPERTY.

HALF THE AMOUNT WILL BE ENOUGH FOR US TO SETTLE SOMEWHERE ELSE, AND PERHAPS IT’S ALL FOR THE BEST.

I TRUST IN HASHEM. HE BROUGHT US HERE, AND HE HAS A REASON FOR SENDING US AWAY. IF WE HAVE TO LEAVE, THEN SO BE IT.

IT’S VERY SERIOUS THIS TIME, BUT WITH PROPER CARE, SHE’LL BE FINE. GIVE HER THIS MEDICATION ONCE A DAY FOR A WEEK.

RIBONO

OLAM,

BITS OF WITS

SHEVY HOLLANDER

SPELL IT OUT

RSVP, which is used to express the request “please respond,” is an acronym for the French phrase, “respondez s’il vous plait,” literally translated as, “respond if it pleases you.” That definitely is a reflection of the level of politeness in 1845, when this term first came into use.

Mount Everest is not the tallest mountain, although it is the mountain that rises the highest above sea level (29,035 feet). The tallest mountain when measured from base to summit is Mauna Kea, a dormant volcano in Hawaii, which reaches 33,500 feet. However, with 19,700 feet of its height submerged under the Pacific Ocean, only 13,796 feet is visible.

PIECE OF HISTORY

A JEWISH HAVEN

In the 1940s, a time when affluent Jewish families would vacation in the Borscht Belt, many middle-class families would summer in Spring Valley. Hotels popped up everywhere, and when they filled up to the maximum, families in the neighborhood would squeeze together and rent out rooms in their homes to bring in some muchneeded money. Many Jewish families lived in Spring Valley, most of them on Columbus Avenue, Prospect Street, Rose Avenue, First Avenue, Second Avenue, Ewing Avenue, Homer Lee Avenue and Lake Street, an area that was derogatively called Jew Hill by the locals. Jews were barred from certain establishments and were not allowed to buy homes or property on certain sections of Saddle River Road.

Main Street in Spring Valley: 1934

THE COUNTRY IN WHICH “I’M SORRY” IS SAID THE MOST FREQUENTLY IS CANADA . CANADIANS ARE SO NOTORIOUS FOR OVERAPOLOGIZING, EVEN FOR THINGS THAT ARE NOT THEIR FAULT, THAT THE COUNTRY CREATED THE APOLOGY ACT, WHICH PROVIDES THAT AN APOLOGY ON THE PART OF AN INDIVIDUAL IN COURT DOES NOT NECESSARILY CONSTITUTE AN ADMISSION OF GUILT.

FLOWER POWER

Use the following letters to list 5 words, each using 7 letters and up. Only the center letter must be used, and letters can be repeated. Bonus points for pangrams (words that use all seven letters).

A F O N T I X

Name a common English phrase for each item on the list that includes a word associated with this week’s theme.

Theme: Trees and Greenery

Example: When rapid growth occurs — grows like weeds

1. Stop doing this and get to the point

2. Not focusing on the big picture

3. Do things in a maladaptive way

4. Settle in a place

5. A fresh start

6. Why you can’t spend endlessly

7. Get an overdose of shivers

8. How you pay for an investment

9. Explore new avenues of work

10. The medical danger has passed

DO YOU LIGHT A NIGHTLIGHT ON A LIGHT NIGHT LIKE TONIGHT? SAY IT WITH A TWIST

WORDS YOU MAY NOT KNOW THAT SAY THINGS IN A WHOLE NEW WAY

Tacenda (tə’səndə) is a wonderful word that means “things that are best left unsaid.”

Do you find that post-midnight talk lends itself to the sharing of tacenda?

I AM AN ODD NUMBER. TAKE AWAY A LETTER, AND I BECOME EVEN. WHAT NUMBER AM I?

Answer: Seven

SO RANDOM!

The old London Bridge sits in Arizona today. The London Bridge was constructed in 1831 (there were previous versions as well), and as it started to deteriorate in the 1960s, the city of London put it up for sale. An American entrepreneur purchased it, and after having it dismantled, shipped the pieces to Lake Havasu City in Arizona. After three years of reconstruction, the bridge was completed, and it is now a tourist attraction. Much of the bridge was built from new materials, but the exterior masonry is from the original bridge that once traversed River Thames.

WHAT DO YOU KNOW?

We welcome town trivia, historical facts and photos, and Torah-themed riddle submissions. We’d also love to hear if you have additional answers to our puzzles! Email comments@themonseyview.com to add your very own bits of wits. Please include your name and contact information.

BOGGLE TOURNAMENT

HOW TO PLAY:

1. Gather round the table to play a family game of Boggle, using this Boggle board.

2. Once you have a winner, fill out the form below in its entirety

3. Email the form to comments@ themonseyview.com or fax to 845600-8483 by Sunday at midnight.

4. Two winners will be drawn each week, each of whom will win a pastrami sandwich and a can of soda!

PLAYING RULES:

Find words on the board containing four letters or more. Letters of a word must be connected in a chain (each letter should be adjacent to the next either vertically, horizontally or diagonally), and each letter can only be used once in a given word.

The following are not allowed in Boggle: Adding “s” to a word • Proper nouns • Abbreviations • Contractions • Acronyms

POINTS

4-letter words: 2 points | 5-letter words: 3 points | 6-letter words: 5 points | 7-letter words: 7 points | 8-letter words: 9 points | 9+ letters: 12 points

HINT

Each Boggle board hides a word of nine letters or more!

B M A U R G W T E I

A N E S E H U M T Z

D P D A L

Full mailing address:

Full name of winner:

Amount of points:

Full names of competing players:

List some words only the winner found:

FAMILY

NAME

AMOUNT

FAMILY

COLOR ME PRETTY

Feel free to photocopy this coloring page for the entire family. Send your colored page to The Monsey View to enter a drawing for a chance to have your artwork featured in our pages and win $10 at Toys4U! Four lucky winners will be announced each week.

CONGRATULATIONS TO THE WINNERS OF COLOR ME PRETTY!

Thank you to the hundreds of readers who sent in beautifully colored pages! Keep coloring!

Toby Kaufman, 7, Pupa

Reizy Wertzberger, 7, Satmar

Chavy Eisenbach, 10, Bais Trany

Yitty and Idy Reiner, 5, Pupa

Attention boys and girls! The Monsey View invites you to join an exciting and meaningful Tehillim contest.To enter, recite your designated amount of Tehillim each day of Shavuos.

Under age 6: one kapitel

Age 7: seven kapitlach

Age 10: ten kapitlach

:ראי 10

In addition to the immeasurable rewards from Above you will receive for reciting Tehillim, every participant of this contest who submits a completed chart after Shavuos will be entered into an exciting drawing for a chance to win either a Segway Zing E12 electric scooter or a 20-inch bike

Age 8: eight kapitlach

Age 11: eleven kapitlach

Bring your completed charts to Toys4U by Sunday, June 16, to enter the drawing.

Age 6: three kapitlach

Age 9: nine kapitlach

:ראי 9 Age 12: twelve kapitlach

Segway Zing E12

TWO WINNERS

Bonus! Check here [ ] if you have completed the entire Sefer Tehillim over yom tov, and get an additional entry into the drawing.

Meilich & Avrum Mandel

Chaim Lunger

Moshe, Shloimy, Bentzion & Duvid

Yitty & Idy Reiner

Shloimy & Bentzy Weinberger

Nuchem & Yehoshia Barzeski

Lag Ba’omer

Yossi Auspitz, 5

Moishe Goldkland

Yossi Lunger

PInchas Mandel

Moishy Friedman

Esti & Chesky Weingarten, Yitty Mandel

Yitty & Idy Reiner

Yanky Oberlander

Yiddy & Dovi Goldberger

Duvid Steinfeld, 5

Usher Zelig Horowitz

1,359 sq. ft. - 1,653 sq ft �ats

Starting at $669k

3 bedrooms

Playroom/ seforim room

Option for pesach kitchen

Classifieds

FOR SALE

DOONA STROLLER

Doona Stroller, multiple colors avail.cll/txt 1-201-6144045

NEOCATE/BABY FORMULA

Neocate $46.99 per can. Kendamil Similac L’Mehadrin in stock!!

We buy off any formula for a good price and trade as well. Call for other types of formulas. New! Option of shipping case of 6 Kendamil directly to you from England. Formula Trade 347.369.4886

BEBE ORGANIC SET

Looking to sell a natural color bebe organic set, size 3 mths, with matching bonnet and blanket, beautiful for vachnacht. Please call 347 382 0905

BIKE FOR SALE

Brand new 26” bike for sale. Please text: 347-7604649

SHAS SALE

For Sale a brand new Safa Berura Oz Vehadar Shas (30 vols) [with Shinun Hatalmud]. Full Size. $1000. 8456309142

REAL ESTATE

NEW ON THE MARKET!

8 bedroom waterfront house for rent in seagate. Available for shabbosim, weekly or daily. For more Information call, text or whatsapp 7188099355

2 ROOM

1 bdrm apartment aboveground in a private house. Can be furnished or used as an office 8455178409. $1,175.00

KEARSING RENTAL

Spacious 1 bedroom available for rent on Kearsing Parkway – Text 347-741-1563

OFFICE FOR RENT

Newly renovated offices for rent on LENORE AVE. please call 845 533 2427

ONE BEDROOM APT

Unfurnished one bedroom apt for rent. private entrance with washing machine and dryer and central a/c and heating. Utilities included. Availiable as of July 15, Call 845-304-6850

MONSEY RENTALS

Studio & 4 bedroom

apartments available. For inquires call or text at (845)367-4240

2 BEDROOM APT

In private house Becoming available July 1 near Hatzlchah grocery call 8453760812

RETAIL BUILDING FOR SALE

Retail building in haverstraw on rt 9w 4,000 sf, asking $999k, great location, text or call 845.203.1120

WAREHOUSE AVAIL

NJ Affordable Low Priced Warehouse with Pick & Pack Options, Also Optional Office space – Easy Access 20 Minutes from Monsey – 35 Minutes from Williamsburg Call 845-281-4527

NEW CITY

3 offices + a big room + a double garage for rent (845) 579-5351

GARAGE FOR RENT

Private detached garage for rent. Approximately 400 square feet. Good for storage. Central location. Call or text 9179684561

HAVERSTRAW

1000 SF ground floor space + 15 parking spots available for rent call/Text 845.203.1120

HOLLYWOOD FLORIDA

Beautiful private villa. 4 Master suites with kosher kitchen, huge living area, pool. Walking distance to Shul/ Kosher shopping. Call/ whatsapp 718-541-0292

WEST PALM BEACH

For the best Real Estate deals, Call: Mrs. Debby Schwartz 203.667.2785

MIAMI BEACH FLORIDA

Collins Ave. Beautiful ocean view. 1 bedroom apt. for rent. 347.760.0570

Intake Director (Homecare)

$120k-$130k Monsey

Bookkeeper

$70k Passaic

Customer Service Rep (Manufacturing)

$40k Englewood, NJ

Field RN

$45-$55/Hourly NYC Area

Email:Brocha@ SwiftStaffingGroup.com

OBGYN

$200k-$275k Monsey

CFO

$150k-$200k Sloatsburg, NY

CEO

$150k-$200k NY

Data Analyst (Wholesale)

$100k Monsey

Tax Accountant

$80k-$150k Monsey/Monroe

Production Engineer (Awning)

$60k-$150k Sloatsburg, NY

Amazon Admin (Exp Required)

$70k-$100k Monsey

Full Stack Development

Coordinator

$75k+ Monsey

Legal Assistant

$60k-$80k Monsey

AP Admin

$50k-$75k Chestnut Ridge

Marketplace Manager

$50k-$60k NYC

Email: RickyR@ SwiftStaffingGroup.com

CFO (Manufacturing/ Distribution)

$200k - $250k Edison, NJ

Bidding Sales Rep (Freelance)

Commission Based Remote

Email RLefkowitz@ SwiftStaffingGroup.com

Site Director (Preschool)

$75k-$105k Manhattan, NY

Licensed Teacher (Preschool UPK)

$68k Manhattan, NY

Physician Liaison (Healthcare)

$60k+ Commissions Ocean Mercer County, NJ

Licensed Teacher Preschool 2-3 yr olds

$50k-$58k Manhattan, NY

Office Admin (Education)

$50k-$60k Manhattan, NY

Email: Sophia@ SwiftStaffingGroup.com

Manufacturing Maintenance Manager

$120k-$150k Mountain Ville, NY

Truss Designer

$80k-$120k Liberty NY

Experienced Mechanic (Packaging Machinery)

$ 75k-$110k Mountain Ville, NY

Office Manger (Female Office)

$50k-$85k Monroe NY

Coordination Supervisor F/T

$50k+ Monroe

Customer Service Rep F/T (Vitamins)

$32k-$62k Monroe/Remote

Sales Lady (Women’s Fashion)

$45k-$50k Monroe

Salesman (Window Treatment) Commission Based NY/NJ

Email ChanaF@ SwiftStaffingGroup.com

SQL Server DBA

$140k-$180k Upstate/Brooklyn/ NJ

Corporate Compliance Officer (Therapy In Nursing Home)

$120K-$180K Monsey/ Hybrid

Level 2 IT Tech

$120k-$160k New Jersey/ Upstate

Yeshiva Administrator

$120k-$150k Rockland County

Insurance Underwriter

$70k-$110k New Jersey/Hybrid

Account Manager ( Finance & Insurance)

$60k-$90k Monsey NY

Legal Administrative Assistant

$65k-$85k Newark, NJ

Current Career Opportunities in Monsey/Monroe & Surrounding Areas

REFER

A CANDIDATE, GET $500 ONCE HIRED

Salesperson (exp with Distribution in Healthcare) Salary+Commission Remote

Email: Yisroel@ SwiftStaffingGroup.com

LNHA

$140k-$200k Duchess County, NY

Email: BailaG@ SwiftStaffingGroup.com

Salesman (Menswear Exp A Must)

$80k-$100k+ Manhattan

Amazon Account Manager

$70k-$90k Manhattan

Amazon Product Lister (Menswear)

$60k-$80k Manhattan

Email: Becky@ SwiftStaffingGroup.com

Creative Director (Gifting & Promo)

$100k + Commission Linden, NJ

Purchaser/ Project Manager (Gift& Promo )

$100k Linden, NJ

inventory Manager

$80k-$100k Linden, NJ

Govt Bids

$80k-$100k + Commissions Linden, NJ

Buyers Assistant

$75k-$100k Linden

Bookkeeper

$70k-$100k Linden

Accounts Receivable (Female Office)

$60k-$70k Monsey AR

$60k-$70k Northvale NJ

AP

$60k-$70k Northvale NJ

Email: Peri@ SwiftStaffingGroup.com

Sr Account Executive (insurance)

$90k-$100k New City

Outside salesman (Electrical) Commission Based Tri State

Secretary/Office Admin

$30/Hourly Spring Valley

Email: Hindy@ SwiftStaffingGroup.com

Homecare Intake Director

$100k-$130k Monsey

Email: TobyF@ SwiftStaffingGroup.com

Physical Therapist (Healthacre)

$85k NJ

Occupational Therapist (Healthcare)

$70k-$85k NJ

Inside Sales Rep

$50k-$100k + Bonuses NYC

Email RivkaL@ SwiftStaffingGroup.com

Medicaid Specialist

$65k-$70k BOE Remote Bookkeeper

$65k+ Yonkers

Intake Specialist (Healthcare)

$50k-$70k Suffern

Office Assistant (Healthcare)

$40k Suffern

Biller/Penders (Healthcare)

Female Office

$25/Hourly Room For growth Lakewood

Sales Lady (Retail)

$25/Hourly Monsey

Email Rutie@ SwiftStaffingGroup.com

Operations Manager (E-Commerce)

$100k-$130k Monsey

Bookkeeper P/T

$35-$45/Hourly Monsey

Email: Moshe@ SwiftStaffingGroup.com

Recruiter/Intake Manager

$50k-$70k Monsey/Remote

Email: Tzippy@ SwiftStaffingGroup.com

Classifieds real

LAKEHOUSE VILLA

Luxurious 3 bedroom lake house villa in Case Grande Arizona. Private pool fully stocked kosher kitchen. 520.251.4459

WEST PALM BEACH FOR SALE

Wellington M, 2 Bedroom apt. Ground Floor FOR SALE. Call: 347.760.0639

NORTH MIAMI FL

2-bedroom, 2-baths with private heated pool and spa. From $325 per night. Call/ Text: 917-382-4810, email: 1752nmb@gmail.com

MIAMI BEACH FLORIDA

Carriage Club North, beautiful 2 bedroom, 2 bath, ground floor, for rent. Call: 347.499.0031

VILLA IN CASA GRANDE ARIZONA

Gorgeous upgraded villa available for Summer and year round. 14 comfortable beds, 3 baths, kosher kitchen. Beautiful private backyard with heated pool, outdoor furniture with grill. Near Shul & Grocery. Call/text 929-592-0368 / 929-441-5709 Arizonakoshervilla.net. Villa in Tuscon also available.

CHALET ESTATES/ WOODBOURNE

Beautiful 4 bedroom/ 2 bthrm summerhome with front and back decks for rent upstate in chalet estates/ woodbourne for month of July contact summerhomeb@ gmail.com

LINDEN-LUXE EXPERIENCE

New Pristine Cathedral

Ceiling House in Linden. 5 bedrooms. 3 bathrooms. Stocked Playroom. Patio Seating. Swing set. All Shab Amenities. 5 min to shul. Located near grocery. Heated pool sep hours avail nearby/ option to rent. Call/text 718989-1406.

MYRTLE BEACH VACATION HOME

Myrtle Beach SC Vacation Home across from shul, 5 minute walk to Beach, Hot Tub - Summer special any three nights $893+cleaning 732-644-3806

MONTICELLO SUMMER VACATION

Book your Summer stay in a beautiful 3+ bedroom house w/outdoor hot tub, playroom, trampoline, linen and towels, Etc. 845.293.2087

HELP WANTED

FULL TIME ASSISTANT

Construction office in Spring Valley is seeking to hire a full time assistant to a project manager. Must be hard working with good English, management skills, detailed oriented, responsible and have prior office experience in Word, Excel and QuickBooks. Email resume officesvjob@gmail.com

SEEKING NANNY

Seeking full time nanny for growing family. Contact 917 971 8322 for details.

CO-TEACHERS / ASSISTANTS WANTED

Monsey Bais Yaakov. Grades 1, Pre-1-A, & Kindergarten, Full/ Half Day, Top Salary! Email resume to 44camphillroad@ thejnet.com or call: 845.362.3166

YSV GIRLS

Yeshiva of Spring Valley Girls General Studies Department Seeking the following Staff for the 24-25 school year: *Pre 1A and 1st Grade Teacher *Lower grade assistants *Permanent Substitutes *Lower Elementary Remedial Teacher *Upper Elementary Math Remedial Teachers. Monday –Thursday 12:50 – 4:00pm. Competitive salary, warm, supportive environment. Email resume: treitzer@ yeshivaspringvalley.org and call (845)356-1400 #223

TEACHERS WANTED

Looking for upper grade teachers for the coming school year. Hours from 3:50 till 5:10. Easy working environment and great pay ontime. Please send a resume to duviechaim@gmail.com or call 845-269-0588.

EXCELLENT OPPORTUNITY!

Join B.Y.E. ‘s Co-Teacher’s Program and gain valuable experience in the classroom. Fantastic opportunity for the right candidate. Email resume to resumes@ baisyaakovelementary. org

TITLE 1 POSITION

Tiferes Bais Yaakov is seeking an experienced Title 1 mentor. Option for morning Kriah remediation hours as well. Please send resume to hr@tiferesby.org

BABYSITTER NEEDED

Looking for a full-time babysitter in an office setting. Great pay for the right individual. Please reach out 845-274-0192

BOOKKEEPER

Construction company looking to hire full time bookkeeper, knowledge in QuickBooks a must. Email your resume to officejobs4832@gmail.com

ENGLISH PRINCIPAL POSITION

Cheder in Monsey, NY seeks an experienced English Principal for 2024-25. Part time job. Well paid. Send resumes to chedered0911@ gmail.com

JOBS AVAILABLE

Part-time & Full-time jobs available. Email TopPartTimeJobs@ gmail.com

RESPONSIBILITIES INCLUDE:

RECRUITMENT  EMPLOYEE RELATIONS  HR POLICIES AND PROCEDURES

QUALIFICATIONS INCLUDE:

MINIMUM 2 YEARS OF HR EXPERIENCE  FULL-TIME  IN-PERSON AT OUR MONSEY OFFICE

BENEFITS INCLUDE:

COMPETITIVE SALARY  MEDICAL BENEFITS PACKAGE  PAID VACATION AND YOMIM TOVIM

CFY/SLP

Full Time / Part Time

English Speaking

Yiddish Speaking

Competitive Pay

MSW/LMSW/MHC/LMHC

Full Time / Part Time

English Speaking

Yiddish Speaking

Supervision Provided

Competitive Pay

Baby Layettes (845) 213-3646

Layettes Text 718-551-1732

Doula 845-587-1649

Labor Bag 347-604-3274

Pidyon Haben Accessories 845-6427256

Pidyon Haben 845-659-6704

Pidyon Haben Gemach 845-356-3568

Pidyon Haben silver tray 845-558-9589

Formula 347-267-3640 Or 216-8893643

Neocate Formula 718-853-4090

Neocate Formula 845-517-9221

Formula Gemach 845-371-3232

Carseats, Bassinet & Pack N Plays. 425-1202

Carseats, Pack N Plays, Strollers, Pumps 845.425.6826

Doona Car Seat 845-445-7474

Brass Iron Bassinet 917-280-4559

Preemie Clothing 845-520-0475

The Preemie Box 845.664.5768 Or 718.688.5814

Baby Scale 845-578-5639

Baby Headphone 845 356 6797 Or 845 558 9370

Baby Scales 845-694-8985

Easy birth from Koznitzer Maggid 917-514-9461

NICU approved clothing 4.5lb+ 845422-7896/347-382-0016

Nursing pumps 8454999871

Twin layette gift box.719 972 0554. Lv msg.

Brissim

Bris Accessories 617-955-3630

Bris Accessories 845-352-5130

Bris Accessories 425 3873

Bris Accessories 425-6574

Bris Accessories 356-6215

Blue Light 845.425.1919

Poya and bris outfit w/ tefillos 845425-0672

Bris outfit & Poya 917-909-4072

Bris outfit poya, also tefilla cards 845 3564859 Ralph area

Pillow/Benchers 845-213-0602

Knife Sharpening For Mohalim 718384-6214

Segula Stone 347-699-6418

Preemie Outfit 845.558.7065

Krias Shema Board With Stand 425-4540

Free Mohel 347-383-5696

Bris Gemach call/text 845-587-5813

Bris outfit, hat and Puyah 845-5589589

New Bris Gemach -845 549 0316

Simcha

Gowns 845-517- 8808

Mother & Sister Gowns 845-426-7496 Or 845-352-3031.

Gown And Petticoats 347-278-1278

Ivory/white/dusty blue gowns 845371-1765

Floral Bisomim 845-629-2785. Hats $25. 347-351-1604

Elegant Hats 845-517-0838.

Bands & Berets 845-371-3556

Tichel 845-548-0014

Mechitza’s, Tables, Chairs Etc. Call 845-445-8015

Hot Water Urns 845-425-9211

Ear-Plugs 845-202-0105. Toys 845-578-6513

Toys 917-538-3453.

Clics 845-352-5820

Tablecloths (845) 371 2105

GEMACHIM

Tablecloth 352-8292

Tablecloths 352-8292

Gold Chargers 845-573-9772

shelves, stands, trays & centerpieces 845-425-1721

Siddurs. Sfard: 845-608-7830 Ashkenaz: 845 352 1756 Or 845-826-6718

Siddur/Chumash 558.4774

Benchers 845-642-0910

Bentchers 347-404-2204

Bechers 845-377-5671

Becher, Challah Deklich, Zemiros 845-425-0498

Coat Rack And Hangers 845-356-9841

Chuppa Cards 347-278-1278

Chupah Cards 845.222.0456

Chuppah Tefillos Booklets. 845-2130602.

Wedding Kit 845-425-2036

Wedding Kit 845-371-2947

Simcha Powder Room Kit 845-3048154

Accessories Basket 845-371-6857

Children Hair Pieces 3473001679

Portable Chuppah 845-425-4790

Sound System 917-382-8809

Evening Bags 845-549-2929

Shmiras Halashon Cards 537-0069

Earplugs for Simchos 845-328-1071

22 qt crockpots, big hot plates, big pots, perculator 8453238570

Simcha table centerpieces 8456087715

Centerpieces 845-570-7755

Wedding guest accessories basket 845-425-0963

Invitation Addressing 845-275-3044

Portable & Plug in Food warmers 845-371-1531

Centerpieces & table top 845.213.6193

Kallah

Yom Hachuppah Cd 845-352-2560

Crowns, veils, shoes, capes 426-0767

Headpieces, Tiaras, Veils 845-425-4221

White Sneakers 917-613-6579

White Shoes 845-200-0211

Kallah Hand Bouquet 845-459-3567

Dress your kallah stress free. Book 1 week in advance 518-306-1167

Kallah Dresser 845-300-5767

Vort dress gemach 845-499-3086

Kallah fur capes 845-425-7176

Misc

Ribbis Question? 347-977-0628

Notary Public 347-228-8825

Fix necklines 845-238-6691

Hairstyling 845-540-3731

Hair styling 845-502-6558

Haircuts & Styling 845-352-8101/ 845-499-3218

Wash & sets $25, 347-944-0003

Haircutting/Styling 845-263-7057

Haircutting & Styling 845-422-5337

Hospital Supplies 746-8293

Hospital Gown 845-425-8687

Hospital Gown 845-426-4695

Hospital Gowns 845-356-5364

Medical Equipment Email Slmw50@ Gmail.com

DVDS & players for Cholim/Homebound 425-2660

Simcha Maternity 845-425-1725

Maternity Coats Text only 845-5212912

Bed Rest? Laundry Help. 213-7437

Maternity Clothing 845-445-9687

Maternity Coat Text Only 8455212912

Twin Z Pillows 845-445-9298

Proposal Gemach 347-277-4072

Makeup 845-517-7128

Gps & Waze 845-352-2588 (Minimal Fee)

Kosher Waze 845.587.1708

Roof Carriers 845-659-1863.

Pack N Play Sheets Included. Text: 845-216-4885

Pack n plays 845-426-1177/ 347631-8183

Beautiful nishmas cards 845-729-7390

Poya (outfit, hat, booties) 845-4250672

Help-a-mom. to volunteer call 347977-6816

Phones For Emergencies. 845-3760738

Reflectors 845-356-0815

Reflectors 347-977-6816

Feeding Supplies 845-366-6398

Natural Health Support, text 347 2287578

Ostomy Supplies 845-637-6231

Moving Boxes Text (845) 641-5536

Boxes 845-425-6826 Or 845-608-7830

Boxes 845-642-5286

Boxes Text (845) 641-5536

Heaters 845 362 8666

Phone Gemach 845-445-7422

Air Mattresses 9176537170

Air mattress gemach Text/WhatsApp 9087831676

Tablecloths 845-459-7396

Coat racks & Hangers 845-352-4640

New Tablecloth Gemach 845-459-7396

Tablecloths on New Hempstead 845459-7396

Baby scale 845-540-1710

Cuddles n Cradles 347-243-7495

Outfit and pillow 914-715-2672

Suitcases 845-371-9121

Minor Repairs txt 845-272-4840

Bike Racks 845-659-1863.

Opwdd Sd Advice Email Slfydhm@ Gmail.com GPS 425-3873

Teacher’s Bulletin 845-425-8046

Computer Advice (862) 248-1931

Loans 347-385-1408

Twin carriages 718-522-3891

Moving Help packing/unpacking 845281-5900

Pack N Plays with sheets text 845280-3470

Therapy toys 1-443-879-3169

Financial planning 7188536016

Digital Cameras 8264062

Phone With Service 845-445-7422

Single parent? Help with shopping etc. 516-203-2616

Hairstyling 845-570-7121

Washing Stations 845.428.9014

Yiddish & English Poems 845-587-3018

Shabbos lamps (914) 391-3787

Lev Simcha music groups/visits 8456082676

Sefer Torah 347-598-0357

Free-shalom bayis 845-213-0602

Mezuzos 845-540-1802

Boys Occasionwear 570-507-4492

Drop in babysitter - (845) 445-9391

laminators & paper cutters msg 845263-7115

Kendamil formula 914-523-0592

Zichron Eliezer mailing Gemach 845213-5617

Vitamin Gemach 845-521-5241

Hachnosas Kallah loan gemach 347415-1525

Heimish Chicken soup 845-352-3959

Purim Costumes 845-641-4684

THERAPISTS

• CFO, 5+ years of senior financial leadership experience within Skilled Nursing Facility (SNF), 275k+, Monsey

• CFO, Established importer/manufacturer company, team leadership, finance and accounting experience required, 275k+, Monsey

• Director of Operations for Urgent Cares, 5+ years leadership experience in healthcare operations management, experience in urgent care or similar clinical settings, 200k+, Monsey

• CFO, Established importer/manufacturer company, CPA and accounting experience required, 200k+, Patterson NJ

• SQL Server Database Administrator, 160k+, 5+ years related experience, Monsey/ Newark

• Experienced Warehouse Manager, 5+ years relevant experience, 150k, near Monsey

• Clinical Director, Clinical experience in mental health required. Supervise, recruit and support clinicians and DSS’s. LMSW/LCSW credentials, 150k, Monsey

• PPC Manager - Amazon Expertise (Large Budget & SKU Management) 150k+, Monsey

• Regional Property Manager, 5+ yrs. experience managing portfolio of multifamily garden style apartments, travel required, 150k+, office based in Monsey

• Financial Controller, oversee finances including A/R, A/P, Bank and Credit Card Reconciliations, Month-End Close, 140k+, Monsey

• Customer Service Manager, Management experience in customer service or related fields required, 130k+, Monsey

• Project Manager – LED Lighting Contractor, strong electrical background, handy, act as owner’s rep, 130k+, Monsey

• HR Director, 2+ years HR experience required, 130k+, Monsey

• Procurement Manager, 3+ years experience with indirect procurement, 130k+, Harrison NJ

• Director of Operations, 2+ years operations, finance and management experience, 125k+, Monsey

• IT Level 2, 120k, Newark, NJ

• Custom Wood Shop Specialist, Proficiency in woodworking or construction techniques, oversee custom projects from start to finish, 110k, Newark

• Underwriter, male office, analyze/ build excel models and proformas for a large nursing home provider, relevant experience required, 110k+ benefits, Monsey

• Industrial Mechanic, experience w/ manufacturing and/or packaging machinery required, 110k, Monroe

• Client Relationship Rep, male office, nurture and expand relationships w/ existing customers, 110k – 120k, Monsey

• Project Manager, analytical skills, manage multiple projects and teams simultaneously. Knowledge of project management methodologies and tools, 110k, Harrsion NJ

• Project Manager, Electrical and construction project management experience required, excellent communication skills, coordinate with clients, suppliers, and stakeholders, travel required, 100k+, based in Monsey

• Payroll Administrator, 2+ yrs. experience, 100k + full benefits package, Monsey

• Production Shop Supervisor, experience w/ overseeing a team of 5+ people in a production warehouse environment, 80k – 110k, Newark

• Sales Operations Coordinator, 2+ yrs. experience, support sales/operations team, ensure smooth processes, 75k -100k, Monsey

• Office Manager/ Executer, bookkeeping, software and marketing knowledge required, 90k+, Monsey

• Director of Treasury, Move Cash, Pay large transactions, Keep track of all moving funds, 90k+, Monsey

• Office Manager - female office, excellent communication skills, multi-task, operate independently, show initiative, relevant experience required, 85k+, Monsey

• Day Hab Program Manager, Lead team in providing support and services to special needs male adults. Prior work w/ Special needs and Yiddish speaking required, 80k+, Monsey

• Operations/Office Manager, Real Estate services company, hands-on backend and front-office operations, prior relevant office experience required, 75k+, Monsey

• Convenience Store Manager, Prior store management and Kosher food experience required, 75k, Monsey

• Construction Project Manager, Experience and travel to NYC required, 75k+, Monsey

• Bookkeeper/ Office Admin, Full-time position, Rent Manager experience preferred, 75k+, Monsey

• Customer Service, Male office, Excel, word, Outlook, communicate via email in proper English, 70k, Monsey

• Paralegal, full-time position, 70k+, Monsey

• Junior Accountant/Bookkeeper, 70k, Monsey

• Insurance Underwriter, female office, collect data from clients, approach carriers to shop out best policy quotes, 70k+, Monsey

• Assistant Warehouse Manager, 70k, Edison NJ

• Legal Administrative Assistant, Full-time, 65k –85k, Newark NJ

• Hands-On Assistant Property Manager, Be energetic, motivated w/ strong communication skills, no prior experience necessary, 65k+, Bronx NY

• IT- Level 1, 60k, Newark NJ

• Experienced Payroll Processor, Full-time, NCS/ Healthcare experience preferred, 50k -70k, Monsey, [possible remote]

• Nursing Home Transition and Diversion (NHTD) & Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) Service Coordinator, BA or MA degree required, female office, relevant experience preferred, minimum 20/hrs. weekly. $35/hr. Monsey

• QA Coordinator, Female office, Part-time - Friday required, Excellent reading/ writing skills required. $30/hr. Monsey

• Clinic Secretary, Female office, 10am-2pm, assist with data entry and reports as well as various secretarial duties. BA required. $30/hr.+, Monsey

• Full-time secretary/front-desk receptionist positions available. $30/hr. Monsey

• Admin Assistant, multi-task, tech-savvy, excellent phone/ communication skills. Parttime or Full-time, $30/hr., Monsey

• AP Rep, AR Liaison, Payroll Rep positions. $25$35/hr., Monsey

Classifieds

LOOKING TO HIRE

Construction office in Spring Valley is seeking to hire a full-time office position. Should be hard working with good English, detailoriented and responsible. Responsibilities include customer communication, billing, and more. Email resume officesvjob@gmail. com

F/T POSITIONS

Heimishe office in Monsey looking to hire for multiple full-time positions. Please email resume: cs@ affordabledws.com

SCHOOL SECRETARY

Looking for a morning secretary to work in a school setting. Amazing Environment! Great opportunity for the right candidate! Send you resume to resumes@ohreducation. org or call; 845 352 3307 ext:138

BCBA POSITION

ABA Riders is looking to hire a BCBA. Well-paid, flexible hours. Contact Rikki 347930-9736/info@abariders. com.

NEW HIRE!

Seeking to hire a full time female secretary for a customer service position, Great pay awaits the perfect candidate. Apply Now Deals@371wheels.com.

SALESLADY OPPORTUNITY

Local Home organizing store is seeking a saleslady with a passion for Home organizing. Must speak Yiddish. Hours: MondayThursday 2:30-6:30 and Sunday 12-6:45. Call 845-459-3950 lv msg

HELP WANTED

Construction office looking to hire a full-time secretary and project manager. Preferable knowledge of QuickBooks. Please email your resume to officejobs4832@gmail.com

ENGLISH TEACHER

Local Yeshiva is looking for an afternoon teacher. Past experience a plus. Great and on time pay. Please send resume’ to yshivads@gmail. com or call 347-541-4417 and leave a msg.

TEACHERS WANTED

Monsey Bais Yaakov. Grades 5 – 8. ELA, Math & History. Excellent Salary! Email resume to 44camphillroad@ thejnet.com or call: 845.362.3166

WE’RE HIRING!

Upscale jewelry store in monsey is looking to hire a part time energetic sales lady. Sunday’s included. Please email resume: jewelrypersonal@gmail.com

SALES ASSISTANT

Frum import company seeks organized, responsible and efficient individual to work in our Secaucus, NJ office, near Passaic, Teaneck, Monsey. Experience with word, excel and MS office a plus; room to grow. Great opportunity for the right applicant. Email resume : jobs@ designstyleshome.com

CUSTOMER SERVICE POSITIONS

We are hiring for customer service positions! If you have a strong work ethic, great communication skills and attention to detail, please send your resume to hr@ culinarydepot.com

JOB OPPORTUNITY

Heimish office with separate female seating is looking to expand their staff, multiple positions available. Fabulous working environment –Please email resume to monseyjob123@gmail.com

150+ JOB OPENINGS!

Stop wasting your time going through all the jobs classifieds. Simply email your resume to Info@ SwiftStaffingGroup.com to explore your options & maximize your career. Or Call/Text/ WhatsApp 732-800-7633 Strictly confidential & completely free.

JOIN OUR SALES TEAM!

Be Your Own Boss! Join New York Life Insurance Co. as a seasoned salesperson or our fast track to management program. Experience top training, support, and retirement benefits. Make an impact, secure your future. Connect today! dglick@ newyorklife.com or Call 845639-5216

F/T POSITION CUSTOMER SERVICE REP

Insurance office located in Monsey is seeking a full-time Customer Service Rep/Producer’s Assistant, experience preferred but not required. Hours are Mon-Thu 9 am-5 pm, Fri 9 am- 12 pm. Please email resume to jobs@ trustevergreen.com

GRAPHICS / SECRETARY IN A LOCAL BY Experienced Graphic Designer / office skills. Full day, great pay. Email resume & samples to 4faigz@gmail.com

PROPERTY MANAGEMENT

Multiple office positions available. Accounts Payable, must have A/P experience and Administrative. Prefer female. This position will be in the office five days a week. We manage multiple properties nationwide. Office located in Woodcliff Lake, NJ. Please send resume to janet@ propertycaps.com

ARE

ARE YOU LOOKING FOR A FULFILLING OFFICE/BOOKKEEPING JOB?

Located on Melnick Dr. in Monsey. Heimishe, geshmake environment.

Optional: start now and work the first few weeks/months part time.

What?

•• One account managing position

- minimum 1-2 years of QB experience required

•• One entry level bookkeeping position - no experience required

Where?

• In a heimishe ehrliche women’s office

• On Melnick Drive Who? People

•

•

•

What else?

• Competitive pay

• Bonuses

• Paid vacation

• Friendly geshmake environment

RECORDING STUDIO

Have your songs professionally recorded by Faigy Pollak. Special offer for camp songs! Call 347-578-3027

NEW RENTAL!

Elegant and adorable baby clothes to rent for your Simcha. Carrying your favorite brands, sizes 6-24 months. Please call for details 347-243-4037

OUTDOOR PHOTOGRAPHY

Beautiful summer photo shoots at a great price. By Shifra Jacobowitz. Call/text for samples or appointment 845-5401078

IMPROVE CIRCULATION

Can’t get up on your feet? This is the reason why!! LICOLIFE-for clear arteries/ improved circulation. TheVitaminDesk 845388-1599

BEAUTIFUL POOL

Large heated pool in New City. Private bathroom and changing rooms. $65 hr weekdays. $75 hr Fridays and Sundays. 845 538 6411

POOL AVAILABLE

Large heated inground pool with diving board available in monsey, bathroom & dressing rooms on-premises. Call/ txt: 347-228-8048

GARTLECH

we fix knitted & crochet Gartlech & make beautiful professional fringes. We also teach how to knit & crochet. call: 917-414-3281

PROPERTY MANAGEMENT

For Honest, Hassle free and proactive property management. Please Call 845-662-1313

MASSAGE THERAPY

Massage Therapy By Yossi. We will bring the massage to you. Call or text 347722-0068

SUBSTITUTE AVAILABLE

I’m a sub and I’m available to sub in playgroups/ schools 845-512-9223

WIRELESS WIFI RENTAL

Short or Long Term, for just $25 per week! 718-4351923

ODDS & ENDS

NEW! NEW! NEW!

Looking for a nice private place for a Beshow? A few locations available in the Monsey area. No charge. Call 845-426-5484 or 845746-7251

EXTRA MONEY

Are you looking to make some extra money in an exciting and fulfilling way? Text the word MONEY to 845-637-1861.

BIG SAVINGS

Save 20% off your monthly energy bill. Sign up for the new government cleaner energy program. No fees, only savings. Call/text 6468893248

GOWNS

OFF WHITE LACE GOWN

Beautiful off white lace gown for rent for married sister of bride size 2. Call 845-746-7248

GOWNS

sister of bride gowns for sale 8455026491

WHITE GOWN

Looking to sell a size 2-4 white gown for sister of the bride, please call 347 628 9586

BLACK MATERNITY DRESS

Gorgeous black Mechteniste maternity dress for rent or sale, size 6, perfect for a chasuna or bar mitzvah. Call 347633-2913

IVORY GOWN

Beautiful ivory gown for rent size Small/Medium. Text 845-826-2185

IVORY GOWN

Beautiful ivory gown for rent size 2-4. Call or text 845-596-9933

GOWN FOR SALE

Beautiful white gown for married sister of bride, for sale. Size 2-4 845-2004326

WHITE MATERNITY GOWN

White maternity gown size large to sell for great price call 7183098716

MAGNIFICENT GOWN

Gorgeous light colored gown for sale. Size 4-6. 8455385693

NAVY VELVET WITH OFF WHITE LACE

3 beautiful velvet & lace dresses for sisters or nieces of bride. Sizes 3, 4 & 5. Please call 845-4260553

BEIGE MECHTENISTE DRESS

Gorgeous designer Mechteniste dress for sale worn once. Size 6-8. Please call 845-426-0553

CHILDRENS

WHITE GOWNS

2 white gowns to rent or sell childrens size 4 & 6 call 7189388597

GOWNS FOR SALE

4 childrens’ blush, tulle gowns, like new. Call for details. 347 415 2111

TEHILLIM KOLLEL

RENEWING AN AGE-OLD SEGULAH: TEHILLIM KOLLEL BEGINS PERSONALIZED TEHILLIM HACHIDA TRACK

NEW YORK – After fifteen years of leading daily minyanim of Tehillim in Eretz Yisrael and worldwide on behalf of Klal Yisrael, Tehillim Kollel has undertaken an additional new project: Tehillim HaChida.

The concept of spelling out a name with all corresponding pesukim of Tehillim has been recognized for generations as a wellspring of yeshuos. Many have been helped after dedicating time and heart to reciting the timeless words of David Hamelech, arranged by alphabet.

Now, Tehillim Kollel has initiated this noble project, making it possible for any Yid in search of a yeshuah or extra brachah to take advantage of an age-old trustworthy venue of rachamim. Be it before critical medical testing, before doing a shidduch, before entering a pivotal business deal, or at a time of simchah, personalized Tehillim HaChida is a heartwarming source of hope and merit.

For any issues such as:

• Garbage pickup issues

• Street light outages

• Construction concerns

• Unauthorized road closures

• Road hazards like potholes, etc.

A dedicated talmid chacham serves as a shaliach, spending as much time as it takes to sincerely say every pasuk spelling out the name. As in all Tehillim Kollel programs, every case is handled discreetly and kept completely confidential.

It’s just a few weeks into this special initiative, and the feedback has been astounding. Tehillim HaChida by Tehillim Kollel participants express their tremendous gratitude to Hakadosh Baruch Hu for the tefillos which opened new doors for them.

please don't hesitate to contact our community liaison, and your concern will be resolved in the most e ective manner.

It’s interesting to note that in his sefer Avodas Hakodesh, the Chida himself suggested having Tehillim HaChida said on one’s behalf by a shaliach: “When a Yid faces a trouble or crisis, he should appoint messengers to say the pesukim of Tehillim that begin with the letters of his name, and it will bring a definite yeshuah.”

Mr. Yossi Margareten

He can be reached at: 845.357.5100 ext. 433 | Margarettenj@ramapo.org

You can also contact the town to report any issues via WhatsApp at: (845) 502-0415

Tehillim Kollel views it as a zechus to be those messengers and be able to continue propagating this consecrated mission, centuries later.

In the zechus of David Hamelech, may the implementation of this powerful format of tefillah which is said never to return unanswered, be accepted on High, along with all tefillos of the steady, daily Tehillim Kollel minyanim across the globe.

DR. TZVI H. AARON

BEHNAM

BEGUN

Highly experienced pediatrician, well known for his extensive expertise in Emergency Pediatrics.

Skilled doctor with 30+ years of experience in pediatric, internal and preventive medicine.

Highly sought-after pediatrician with over 26 years of experience in pediatric care.

When I first started OT at On the Ball, I was very shy and the thought of actually looking at someone’s eyes or being touched made me squirm. Sensory experiences were overwhelming for me so I avoided them.

My
OT
at
On
The
Ball,
using
a

I now talk to friends at recess and on the bus. My mommy is so happy that now, when she gives me a gentle hug and kiss, I can hug her back and rest my head on her shoulder. I wasn’t even so anxious at my cousin’s chasuna last week!