» The ultimate form of Tzedaka—anonymous giving
» Local recipients:
» Your donation to Ahavas Yisrael pays the highest Mitzvah dividends, yielding astronomical Mitzvah returns and helping provide financial security to neighbors in need
» Make sure that EVERYONE can enjoy Purim and Pesach
» Tax deductible year-end donation
The Chesed Fund and Project Ezra invite the entire community to the
Pimlico Race Course Clubhouse Parking Lot
See Driving Directions Below.
Friday, April 11, 2025 | 7:00 - 11:30 AM sharp
NOTHING WILL BE ACCEPTED AFTER 11:30AM.
to City Councilman Isaac “Yitzy” Schleifer for making this year’s event free to the public!
FOOD DONATION DRIVE – Non-perishable items will be collected for distribution in the Southern Park Heights community.
FOOD TRASH ONLY! Please be considerate; burn chometz, not plastic. If you wish to burn wrapped chometz, wrap it in paper bags - not plastic, not styrofoam, not aluminum foil. When plastic burns, it releases toxins which harm those present and the environment. Please do not attempt to burn frozen food items.
CLOSED CANS AND BOTTLES can explode when placed in the fire. You must put them in the provided dumpsters.
PLEASE RECYCLE – Designated dumpsters will be available.
BULK TRASH, such as furniture, appliances, etc., WILL NOT BE ACCEPTED. Food garbage can be placed in our dumpsters. See back of this flyer for bulk trash disposal.
Easy Directions to Pimlico Race Course Clubhouse Parking Lot:
1. Head southeast down Park Heights Avenue, passing the Park Heights JCC on your right.
2. Proceed through the intersection at Northern Parkway, and continue through the intersection at West Rogers Avenue.
3. Make a left at the next light, onto Hayward Avenue.
4. Make the next right at Maple Avenue, into the Pimlico Parking Lot.
The Four Leshonos of Geulah, the Four Expressions of Redemption, are one of the primary themes upon which the Seder is based. The four expressions as mentioned in the Torah are:
“V’Hotzeisi” – I shall take you out of Mitzrayim “V’Hitzalti” – I shall rescue you from the burdens of Mitzrayim
“V’Ga’alti” – I shall redeem you
“V’Lakachti” – I shall take you to Me for a people
If you examine these closely, it becomes difficult to distinguish between the first two. What is the difference between “I shall take you out of Mitzrayim” and “I shall rescue you from the burdens of Mitzrayim”? Don’t both mean that we’ll be taken out?
I heard a powerful insight from Rabbi Yakov Frand. To understand this question, we need to look at the exact wording in the verse:
– “I will take you out from under the Sivlos Mitzrayim.” The word Sivlos comes from the root sovel, which can mean “suffering” – but more commonly, it means “enduring.”
A person may go through hardship and be a sovel – he endures with faith and perseverance. But there’s another type of endurance, a more dangerous one: when a person becomes numb. He gets used to his situation, loses the will to change, and simply survives. He becomes
complacent. That’s the most paralyzing kind of exile, when we stop believing that things can be better.
Before Hashem could physically take the Jews out of Mitzrayim, He had to free them from that internal galus. They had to start believing again. That’s the deeper meaning of “V’Hitzalti” – He rescued us from the emotional and psychological weight of Mitzrayim. Only after that could there be “V’Hotzeisi” – the physical redemption.
As we count down to Pesach, it’s tempting to focus only on the logistics; cleaning, cooking, and preparing. But this week, the week leading into the Yom Tov of Geulah, holds immense potential. It’s our chance to shed the inner burdens we’ve come to tolerate. The self-doubt, the complacency, the habits that hold us back. If we spend this week preparing not just our homes, but our hearts, Pesach will take on a whole new meaning.
The Shabbos HaGadol drasha, coming a week early this year, gives us a head start – a spark to begin the process of personal redemption. Let’s use every day between now and Leil HaSeder to free ourselves from our own Sivlos Mitzrayim, so that we can fully experience the Geulah, both personal and as a Nation, that Pesach promises. Have a peaceful Shabbos!
Aaron M. Friedman
Send us your: community events, articles & photos, and mazal tovs to editor@baltimorejewishhome.com to be featured in coming editions!
Comfort Year-Round:
Save Big on Energy Costs:
Cut your heating and cooling bills by 30-50% and make your HVAC system work smarter, not harder.
Breathe Better:
Enjoy improved air quality with reduced drafts and outdoor pollutants, creating a healthier living environment.
The Baltimore Chesed League wrapped up its season with a remarkable week of giving, as volunteers engaged in a variety of impactful activities across the community.
From delivering matzah to families in need and assembling Pesach care packages to visiting senior
residents and organizing community resources, each act strengthened the bonds of kindness and unity.
Volunteers also learned firsthand about the crucial work of local organizations, such as Misaskim and AIM, gaining a deeper appreciation for the infrastructure of chesed in Baltimore. Through their efforts, participants dis-
covered that acts of kindness—whether big or small—uplift both the giver and receiver, reinforcing the value of communal responsibility.
This final week was a testament to the power of collective goodwill, proving that true chesed is not just about helping others but about building a stronger, more connected community.
As the season comes to a close, the boys look forward to celebrating their achievements at the end-ofseason banquet, sponsored by Tactic Therapy and PriceBusters, and hosted at Suburban Orthodox Congregation Toras Chaim—a well-earned tribute to their dedication and impact.
Ohr Chadash Academy (OCA) is proudly to announces that two students from their Chidon HaTanach classes have qualified for the national finals of the Chidon HaTanach competition in New York on May 4. Mazel Tov to Gavi Erez (‘27) and Eitan Lane (‘25) who qualified from the Middle School National Division.
The Chidon HaTanach is sponsored by the Jewish Agency and is open to students in grades 6-12. OCA is registered in the highly competitive Hebrew Middle School division of the Chidon HaTanach for schools that learn and master the text in Lashon HaKodesh. Over 600 students from across the United States participated in the first round of tests.
Under the guidance of Rabbi Mordechai Abrahams, dedicat-
ed OCA middle school students worked hard to learn the majority of Sefer Devarim, all of Shmuel Alef and Ruth, as well as parts of Divrei HaYamim alef.
At the national finals, students will take further tests and celebrate their knowledge of these sefarim. The top four students in the nation will represent the U.S. in the International Chidon HaTanach competition next summer.
OCA is thrilled that for the sixth year they will be sending representatives to national finals. Hatzlacha Rabbah to Gavi and Eitan!
When a woman dials our number, it’s because poverty had cornered her into believing that abortion is her only option.
Yeshiva Maalas Chein
(formerly the Beis Medrash of Owings Mills, Rosh Yeshiva Rav Nosson Neuman), located at 10729 Park Heights Avenue (just before Bais Yaakov), celebrated a Hachnosas Sefer Torah!
The street was filled with ruach and excitement as the Sefer Torah was escorted to its new home. Harav Aaron Feldman, shlita, Rosh Hayeshivah Ner Yisrael joined in the simcha, surrounded by a throng of men and boys of all ages.
The Hachnasas Sefer Torah at Yeshiva Maalas Chein is dedicated l’ilui nishmas Rav Menachem Braun, Z’L, who’s namesake —born less than 2 weeks ago to R’ Yosef Eliezer And Chana Shayndel Braun, — escorted the Sefer Torah as well.
Mazel tov!
APRIL 7TH - APRIL 10TH
Monday April 7th Wednesday April 9th
9:30 am
Yoga with Deborah Bandos
10:00 am
Baking with Yehudis
11:00 am
Discussion Group with Rabbi KarpPesach
Preparation
1:00 pm
Arts & Crafts with Shifra
2:00 pm
Music with Mr. Fried
Tuesday April 8th
9:30 am
Yoga with Deborah Bandos
10:15 am
Anagrams with Malka Zweig
11:00 am
Discussion Group with Rabbi KarpPesach Customs
1:00 pm
BINGO
1:45 pm
Guitar with Yossi K
9:30 am
Yoga with Deborah Bandos
10:15 am
Anagrams with Malka Zweig
10:30 am
Bais Yaakov Middle School Visit
11:00 am
Discussion Group with Rabbi Karp- Pesach Haggadah
1:00 pm
Arts & Crafts with Shifra
1:45 pm
Guitar with Yossi K
Thursday April 10th
9:30 am
Yoga with Deborah Bandos
10:15 am
Anagrams with Malka Zweig
11:00 am
Discussion Group with Rabbi Karp- Warm Pesach Stories
1:00 pm
Arts & Crafts with Shifra
1:45 pm
Guitar with Yossi K
• Discover the unbelievable backstory of the “beepers” in Lebanon...
• Be amazed at Hashem’s hashgachah, which brought together men from Al Jazeera, UNRWA, and the American CIA – leading to the rescue of four hostages...
Through dozens of riveting stories like these, you’ll discover tears and tragedies, hopes and heroism and military miracles. Above all, you’ll rejoice, even as you cry, at the profound reawakening of emunah that continues to shape Klal Yisrael.
WITS held its 13th annual Women in the Workplace seminar on March 20th. Focusing on the opportunities and challenges students may face in their professional journeys, this seminar offered essential chizuk and hadracha to those preparing for graduation, entering graduate school, or beginning their careers. Alumna, Mrs. Meira Simanowitz served as the event’s emcee, guiding an impressive lineup of speakers, including Rabbi Moshe Hauer, Rabbi Ilan Feldman, and board member Dr. Moshay Cooper, who shared profound insights and personal experiences.
The program concluded with a delightful luncheon followed by a panel discussion featuring Rabbi Goldberger, Rabbi Feldman, Rabbi Heber, Dr. Moshay Cooper, board member Mrs. Aliza Sklare, and alumna Mrs. Malka Rena Heineman. The panelists addressed student-sub-
mitted questions, providing answers enriched with invaluable hashkafic and halachic guidance. WITS students left the seminar feeling strengthened and better-prepared for the future.
2nd/3rd
BJH: Can you tell us about your background and how you came to Baltimore?
Rabbi Boruch Brull: I’m originally from Boro Park. My educational journey took me through several prestigious yeshivos, including Mesivta Torah Vodaath, Mesivta of Long Beach, and Beth Medrash Govoha. In 1978, I came to Baltimore to become a Rebbe in TA, which was partly motivated by my wife’s connection to the city. I started teaching morning and afternoon classes, which was typical for educators at TA at that time.
BJH: How did Ahavas Yisrael begin?
RBB: The organization started quite humbly. After living in Baltimore for a few months, I recognized a significant need in the community for a tzedakah fund. I partnered with Rabbi Elozor Isbee Z”L to create a support system for people in need. We began with just a few food boxes and small checks, gradually expanding our services. After about a year, we collaborated with Eli Schlossberg to broaden our impact.
BJH: What are the primary ways Ahavas Yisrael supports the community?
RBB: Our support is comprehensive and multifaceted. We provide:
• Food packages and grocery store certificates
• Financial assistance for utility bills
• Mortgage and rent payment support
• Emergency financial help
• Budgeting assistance
• Job placement services
• Government program navigation
BJH: How do you maintain dignity when helping people?
RBB: Discretion is our absolute priority. When we meet a family, our first approach is always, “How can we better help you?” We never want anyone to feel embarrassed or uncomfortable. Our goal is to provide support that feels supportive, not demeaning.
BJH: Can you describe how Ahavas Yisrael has evolved over the years?
RBB: We’ve transformed from a small initiative to a full-time professional organization. Now we have:
• A dedicated office
• Professional case managers
• A full-time job placement specialist
• Staff members focused on accessing government programs
• Extensive networks with local businesses, medical professionals, and educational institutions
BJH: What makes Baltimore’s Jewish community unique?
who we had already provided with funds for Yom Tov, came to our door, needing last-minute assistance with food for his family’s Seder plate. My wife immediately shared our food with him, ensuring that his family could have a proper Seder. After he left, we felt that we could really sit down at our own seder knowing we just may have helped that one last person we might have missed!
BJH: How does Ahavas Yisrael approach Yom Tov support, especially during Pesach?
RBB: Pesach is incredibly expensive for many families. This year, we sent out 500 checks to families, distributed through various channels to maintain discretion. We work with local rabbis to identify families in need, provide food packages, and offer financial support to ensure everyone can celebrate Yom Tov with dignity.
BJH: What inspired you to dedicate your life to community service?
RBB: Baltimore has an extraordinary spirit of collaboration. The rabbis, organizations, and even local politicians work together seamlessly. There’s a remarkable sense of chesed and achdus that you won’t find in many other cities. Every sector of the community is committed to supporting one another.
BJH: Can you share a memorable moment from your years of service?
RBB: One particularly touching story happened years ago right before our Pesach Seder. A needy member of our community
RBB: My wife and I were brought up in homes of chesed, with our parents as our role models, and we decided we wanted to set up our own home with that same foundation. I have always been deeply influenced by Rabbonim and their care and concern for the klal. Many years ago, at a Ahavas Yisrael board meeting at our home to discuss how to help individuals and families, Rabbi Hopfer Shlit”a, who was at the meeting, taught us about empathy and understanding. Although everyone at the meeting was eating the food on the table, Rabbi Hopfer chose not to eat. He later explained that he wanted to feel hungry while making decisions about community support. That lesson has guided my entire approach to chesed.
BJH: How can community members help support organizations like Ahavas Yisrael?
RBB: There are multiple ways to help:
• Financial donations
• Connecting people to resources
• Spreading awareness about available support
• Participating in community fundraising events
• Offering professional skills or services
BJH: What challenges does the community face today?
RBB: Rising costs are a significant challenge. Electricity, food, and basic living expenses have increased dramatically. Many families are struggling to make ends meet, which is why organizations like Ahavas Yisrael are more critical than ever.
BJH: What keeps you motivated after decades of community service?
RBB: The incredible resilience and generosity of the Baltimore community. Seeing people come together, support each other, and lift each other up during challenging times is profoundly inspiring. Every time we help a family, every time we see someone get back on their feet, it reaffirms our mission.
BJH: Any final message for the community?
RBB: We’re here to help. No one should ever feel alone or ashamed to seek support. Our community is strong because we take care of each other. Whether it’s through Ahavas Yisrael or other organizations, there are always resources and people ready to help.
A submarine sank last Thursday morning just a kilometer off the shore of Hurghada, Egypt, killing six passengers, all of whom were Russian tourists. The deaths were confirmed by Red Sea Governor Maj. Gen. Amr Hanafy.
Aboard the ship were five crew members from Egypt and 45 passen-
gers, including tourists from Norway, Sweden, India, and Russia. Everyone, aside from the six killed in the incident, was rescued alive. Four passengers were being treated at nearby medical facilities for life-threatening injuries.
The incident is now being investigated by authorities, Hanafy said.
The ship, run by Sindbad Submarines, was at the time inspecting coral reef in a run-of-the-mill underwater excursion. Their website claims the vessel is “engineered in Finland to sustain underwater pressure up to 75 meters, ensuring safety and reliability,” and has an “expert team” with “years of experience.” The website contains other details about the submarine, adding that it’s able to accommodate 44 passengers and two pilots, boasting a “sizable round viewing window” for all onboard. The vessel could also go as far as 82 feet below sea level for up to 40 minutes, thus allowing passengers to see “500 meters of coral reef and its marine inhabitant.”
According to the governor, the submarine’s operating license was valid, and its crew leader had the necessary “scientific certificates.”
Dozens of people died and over 24,000 people fled from their homes as a result of wildfires raging in southeast South Korea. The fires, which are the worst in the country’s history, have also burned down temples that have been revered for hundreds of years, as well as over 300 other structures.
The fires, fueled by powerful winds, started around two weeks ago and had swept through over 88,000 acres by Thursday.
“We are fighting the worst-ever wildfire with all the manpower and equipment we can muster, but it’s an extraor-
dinary situation,” said acting president and prime minister Han Duck-soo, who was recently reinstated to office after a court ruled against his impeachment. The country has deployed over 5,000 fire officials and 78 helicopters to fight the flames, with officials declaring cities and counties in Gyeongsang province special disaster zones.
Last Wednesday, a pilot died after his helicopter flew into a mountain. The incident led authorities to suspend aerial operations. In the meantime, three rangers and one civil servant were killed while trying to fight the fires.
“The rainfall in some areas has not put out the fires, but it lessened the chances of the blaze spreading to other areas,” said Korea Forest Service’s head, Lim Sang-seop, referencing recent rain in the county of Uiseong.
In that same county, fires destroyed a Buddhist temple built 1,300 years ago. It was a UNESCO World Heritage Site. By Sunday, authorities said that the main fire had been brought under control. The cause of the fires is under investigation. This week, authorities booked a 56-year-old man who had been per-
6:15 am Young Israel Shomrai Emunah M-F
6:25 am Southeast Hebrew Cong., Knesset Yehoshua M-F
6:30 am Beth Sholom Congregation M-F
Beit Halevi (Sfardi) M, T
Chabad of Silver Spring M-F
Ohev Shalom Talmud Torah OLNEY M-F
Young Israel Shomrai Emunah S YGW M, Th
6:35 am Ohr Hatorah M, Th
6:40 am YGW S, T, W, F
Magen David Sephardic Congregation M-Th
6:45 am Beit Halevi (Sfardi) S, T, W, F
Kemp Mill Synagogue M, Th
Ohr Hatorah T, W, F
Young Israel Shomrai Emunah M, Th
6:50 am Woodside Synagogue/Ahavas Torah M, Th
Silver Spring Jewish Center M-F
Chabad of Upper Montgomery County M-F
6:55 am Young Israel Shomrai Emunah T, W, F
7:00 am Kemp Mill Synagogue T, W, F
Southeast Hebrew Cong., Knesset Yehoshua S Silver Spring Jewish Center S
POTOMAC
North Bethesda, MD 20852
GAITHERSBURG
Chabad of Upper Montgomery County [Ari] 11520 Darnestown Rd, Gaithersburg, MD 20878
OLNEY Ohev Shalom Talmud Torah (OSTT) 18320 Georgia Ave, Olney, MD 20832
Woodside Synagogue/Ahavas Torah T, W, F
Young Israel Ezras Israel of Potomac T, W, F
7:05 am Kesher Israel M, Th
7:15 am Kemp Mill Synagogue M, Th Kesher Israel T, W, F
Ohev Sholom Talmud Torah/The National Synagogue M-F
Ohr Hatorah S
7:30 am Chabad of DC M-F
Chabad of Potomac M-F JROC M-F
Kemp Mill Synagogue T, W, F
Southeast Hebrew Cong., Knesset Yehoshua M-F
Young Israel Shomrai Emunah S
Young Israel Shomrai Emunah (Sfardi) M-F
7:45 am YGW (Yeshiva Session Only) S-F
8:00 am Beth Sholom Congregation S
Kemp Mill Synagogue S
Kesher Israel S
Ohev Shalom Talmud Torah OLNEY S
Southeast Hebrew Cong., Knesset Yehoshua S
Chabad of Upper Montgomery County S Woodside Synagogue/Ahavas Torah S
8:00 am YGW (High School; School-Contingent) S-F
Young Israel Ezras Israel of Potomac S Young Israel Shomrai Emunah (Sfardi) S
8:05 am Ezras Israel Congregation of Rockville M, Th
8:15 am Ohr Hatorah S Ezras Israel Congregation of Rockville S, T, W, F
Kehilat Pardes / Berman Hebrew Academy S-F
Silver Spring Jewish Center M-F
8:30 am Chabad of DC S Chabad of Potomac S JROC S Ohev Sholom Talmud Torah/The National Synagogue S Silver Spring Jewish Center S YGW (Summer Only) S-F
8:45 am Young Israel Shomrai Emunah S-F
9:00 am Chabad of Silver Spring S Kemp Mill Synagogue S
mincha
2:15 pm Silver Spring Jewish Center S-F
2:20 pm YGW M, T, W
2:45 pm YGW M-Th
3:00 pm YGW Middle School School Days
Before Shkiah (15-18 minutes), S-TH
Beit Halevi (Sfardi)
Beth Sholom Congregation
Chabad of Potomac
Chabad of Silver Spring
Chabad of Upper Montgomery County
Ezras Israel Congregation of Rockville (20 min before, S-F) JROC
Kemp Mill Synagogue
Kesher Israel
Magen David Sephardic Congregation
Ohev Sholom Talmud Torah/The National Synagogue Ohr Hatorah
Silver Spring Jewish Center
Southeast Hebrew Congregation
Woodside Synagogue/Ahavas Torah
Young Israel Ezras Israel of Potomac
Young Israel Shomrai Emunah (Asheknaz) Young Israel Shomrai Emunah (Sefarhadi) maariv
8:15 pm OSTT (OLNEY) S-Th
8:45 pm YGW School Days
9:30 pm YGW
forming an ancestral rite at a family grave on a hill in Uiseong county. Police are saying he may have started the fatal fires accidentally when he tried to burn tree branches over the graves with a cigarette lighter.
A powerful earthquake, measured at a 7.7 magnitude, devastated Myanmar on Friday, disrupting the country’s ongoing civil war, killing at least 2,719 people and injuring more than 4,521 others. The massive earthquake, which was felt as far as China, also hit Thailand, killing at least 18 people. In Thailand, officials are concerned that over 100 people, most of whom are construction workers, are now stuck beneath a collapsed building.
Gen. Min Aung Hlaing noted, “Among the missing, most are assumed to be dead,” he said on state television. “There is a narrow chance for them to remain alive as it has been over 72 hours.”
Min Aung Hlaing, the head of Myanmar’s junta, declared a state of emergency and, in a statement, pleaded for “any organizations and nations willing to … help the people in need within our country.”
Over the past four years, Myanmar, one of the most impoverished countries in Asia, has been embroiled in a civil war. Over 20 million people in Myanmar need humanitarian aid and around 3.5 million are displaced. Currently, the military government only controls around 20% of the country, while most of the land is governed by rebel groups aiming to overthrow the junta. The earthquake “could not [have] come at a worse time,” Amnesty International said, calling on the junta to permit aid groups to freely come to Myanmar.
“Almost 80% of the country is outside of the control (of the military), and then they are controlled by different ethnic armed groups,” said a country director for an international NGO working in Myanmar. “They’re controlled by the PDF (People’s Defense Force) under
the NUG (National Unity Government), so you can’t have a full picture of what is going on.”
The International Rescue Committee’s Myanmar director said the damage in Myanmar from the earthquake will probably be “severe.”
In the United States, the affordability of eggs has prompted a national discussion — underscoring anxieties about the economy and the government’s role in addressing them. In Japan, there’s an equivalent: rice.
Over the past year, Japan has grappled with a more than 200,000-ton shortage of its staple grain. Rice prices have skyrocketed, and supermarkets have been forced to restrict amounts that shoppers can buy. The situation became so dire that the government had to tap its emergency rice reserves.
The twist is that even as Japan deals with shortages, the government is paying farmers to limit how much they grow. The policy, in place for more than half a century, consumes billions of dollars a year in public spending.
Farmers exasperated with the regulations protested Sunday. In a central Tokyo park, more than 4,000 farmers gathered with signs declaring, “Rice is life” and “We make rice but can’t make a living.”
The ability of Japan to manage its rice problem may have significant implications for the country’s political and economic landscape in the months ahead.
Last month, fresh food inflation surged 19%, driven by an 81% rise in the price of rice. Anxieties over the cost of food and other staples have weighed on Japanese consumers and the economy as households cut back on spending.
Shortages of Japan’s staple food are also occurring before an upper house election that will be the first nationwide poll for Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba. His predecessor resigned in August, facing dismal public approval ratings caused in large part by the cost of basic goods.
The rice shortages stem from a mix of factors, including record summer heat in 2023 that damaged the harvest.
But experts say the root cause lies in a decades-old policy that has systematically reduced arable land for rice growing. Since the 1970s, Japan has subsidized farmers to curtail the production of rice. The goal, officials say, is to support farmer incomes by maintaining high prices. Farmers at the protest said that policy isn’t working.
While slightly more costly, a policy focused on expanding production would increase rice supply, enhancing Japan’s food security, while lowering prices for consumers, said Nobuhiro Suzuki, a professor at the University of Tokyo specializing in agricultural economics. Enabling farmers to grow without restrictions while backstopping their incomes would also make the industry more attractive to new generations of workers, he said. (© The New York Times)
According to reports, the United Arab Emirates has given death sentences to the three men who last November murdered Rabbi Zvi Kogan, a Chabad rabbi in the UAE.
The suspected killers were identified as Olimpi Toirovich, Makhmudjon Abdurakhim, and Azizbek Kamlovich. All three were from Uzbekistan. In November 2024, they abducted Rabbi Kogan from Dubai. According to the Wall Street Journal, Rabbi Kogan’s killers planned to bring him to Oman. However, their plans somehow fell through, and a few days later Rabbi Kogan was found dead in the UAE’s Al Ain city, which is on the country’s border with Oman. The three men were later arrested in Turkey.
Rabbi Kogan became the Chabad emissary to the UAE after the Abraham Accords established diplomatic relations between Israel and the UAE. He and his wife Rivky, whom he married in 2022, were committed to helping the UAE’s Jewish community. For example, they expanded the availability of kosher food in the UAE and established the Gulf state’s first Jewish education center.
In November, Rabbi Kogan was laid to rest on Har Hazeisim cemetery in Jerusalem.
Israel, according to Kan, believes the murder of Rabbi Kogan was a terror attack but doesn’t think Iran was behind the killing.
Last Thursday, a man went on a stabbing spree in Amsterdam, near Dam’s Square, injuring five people. The assailant was then stopped by an English tourist, who pursued the attacker through bus alleys before successfully restraining him until police arrived.
The British man, who asked to be unnamed, was hailed a hero for stopping the attacker and saving lives. Amsterdam Mayor Femke Halsema, in an Instagram message, expressed her gratitude for the tourist’s heroism. At her home, she gave the English man a “hero’s medal.”
“He is a very modest British man,” Halsema said to reporters. “He has no desire to become famous. He is now mainly concerned with the victims; he feels responsible for them.”
“The tourist was walking on Nieuwendijk and heard a commotion,” she shared. “He saw someone pass by and instinctively thought, ‘This is not right, something bad is happening here.’ He managed to tackle him to the ground.”
Halsema added that the five victims—a 67-year-old woman and 69-yearold man from the United States, a 73-year-old woman from Belgium, a 26-year-old man from Poland, and a 19-year-old woman from Amsterdam— were all in stable condition and that authorities were working to determine the attacker’s identity and motive.
“We’re very proud of him, but we also want to point out that you need to be very careful if you want to make a citizen’s arrest. Most people are not trained for this sort of thing,” said an Amsterdam police spokesperson, praising the English tourist for making a “rare citizen’s arrest.”
Some Amsterdam locals have even
said the hero should be made an honorary “Amsterdamer.”
Police say that the stabber was a 30-year-old Ukrainian national from the eastern Donetsk region.
On Monday, a French court convicted Marine Le Pen, the leader of the National Rally (RN) party, and others in her party of embezzlement for illegally using 4.4 million euros ($4.8 million) of European Union funding meant for assistants of European Parliament lawmakers. Instead, she and others, according to the court, used the money to pay RN staffers whose work wasn’t relevant to the parliament.
The court sentenced Le Pen to four years in prison. The judge said that half of the term was suspended pending appeals and the other half could be served out if she uses an electronic bracelet or an alternate form of jail time. She was also given a €100,000 ($108,000) fine. Most notably, the court barred her from running for public office for the next five years, thus banning her from running in the 2027 presidential election.
The decision was unprecedented, bringing France into new political territory. Le Pen was widely seen as the upcoming election’s frontrunner. Now, however, she may only be able to run if she quickly wins an appeal.
“In a democracy, it’s the voters who decide. I’ve come to tell them tonight, don’t worry,” Le Pen said in response to the decision, vowing to appeal. “This feeling of injustice is perhaps an additional driving force in the fight I’m waging.”
Le Pen’s ban on running for election was implemented immediately, since the judges applied “provisional execution.”
After the court declared she would be banned from running in the election, but before Judge Bénédicte de Perthuis finished reading his ruling, Le Pen got up and left the courtroom. She denied all charges,
defending herself by saying that the staffers were political aides, not employees of the European Parliament, and thus were allowed to do work for the party.
“Today it’s not only Marine Le Pen that has been unjustly condemned. It’s French democracy that’s being executed,” declared Jordan Bardella, the president of the National Rally party and a mentee of Le Pen.
Allies of U.S. President Donald Trump have drawn parallels between Le Pen’s and Trump’s legal challenges.
“When the radical left can’t win via democratic vote, they abuse the legal system to jail their opponents. This is their standard playbook throughout the world,” Elon Musk wrote on X.
“[The] exclusion of people from the political process is particularly concerning given the aggressive and corrupt lawfare waged against President Trump here in the United States,” added Tammy Bruce, a spokesperson for the State Department.
Along with Le Pen’s sentences, some of her staffers were also convicted. Her father’s bodyguard, Thierry Légier, and her chief of staff, Catherine Griset, were sentenced to suspended one-year prison sentences and two-year bans from running for office. National Rally’s vice president Louis Aliot received 18 months in jail—two-thirds of which was suspended, with the other six months able to be served out with an electronic bracelet— and was banned from public office for three years. Wallerand de Saint-Just, a former party treasurer, was given three years in prison, one of which was suspended, and was banned from public office for three years.
Of the National Assembly’s 577 seats, National Rally, the largest party in the lower house, holds 123 seats. Last December, Le Pen brought French President Emmanuel Macron’s government crashing down with a no-confidence vote.
The engine shuddered to life about half past noon local time Sunday, and with a guttural roar, the 92-foot-tall Spectrum rocket lifted slowly away from its launch tower, marking the first liftoff of its kind on the European continent.
The rocket, launched by Isar Aerospace from within the Arctic Circle at a spaceport on the icy Norwegian island of Andøya, was the first orbital flight out-
side of Russia to leave continental Europe. About 30 seconds after the rocket cleared the launchpad, it pitched to the side and plummeted back to earth.
But Daniel Metzler, CEO of Isar Aerospace, was upbeat. He said in a statement that the test flight had “met all our expectations, achieving a great success,” despite the crash.
“We had a clean liftoff, 30 seconds of flight and even got to validate our Flight Termination System,” Metzler said. The rocket fell directly into the sea, the launchpad was not damaged, and no one was harmed when the spacecraft crashed, he added.
The test flight was seven years in the making for Isar Aerospace, a German-based company founded in 2018 with a mission to make satellite launches more accessible from Europe. European companies have been pushing ahead in space technology and research, exploring the potential of the space sector for defense, security and geopolitics.
“There’s about a million things that can go wrong and only one way things actually go right,” Metzler said in a video interview before the launch. The team
had rescheduled several earlier attempts to launch, citing unfavorable weather conditions. “Frankly, I’d be happy if we just fly 30 seconds,” he said at the time. That amount of time, he said, would give the team plenty of information to analyze and use to improve their vehicle. And that is roughly how long Sunday’s flight lasted. (© The New York Times)
“They were murdered in cold blood — bare hands,” Yarden said. Their deaths were confirmed last month after Hamas released their remains in an unspeakably evil ceremony.
On Sunday, CBS’s “60 Minutes” released interviews with former hostages Yarden Bibas; Keith and Aviva Siegel and Agam Berger; and Tal Shoham, along with the parents of Guy Gilboa-Dalal and Evyatar David, who remain in Gaza.
Yarden’s children, nine-month-old Kfir and four-year-old Ariel, and wife Shiri, were murdered in Hamas captivity.
Yarden said the terrorists holding him hostage would tell him, “‘Oh, it doesn’t matter. You’ll get a new wife, new kids. Better wife, better kids.’ They said that many times.”
Yarden expressed his appreciation to U.S. President Trump for his release. He said he believes that Trump can help release the remaining hostages.
“Please stop this war and help bring all of the hostages back,” he urged Trump during the interview. “He has to convince Netanyahu; he has to convince Hamas. I think he can do it.”
Yarden, during the interview, wore
a t-shirt with the pictures of David and Ariel Cunio, two brothers who remain in captivity. They were his friends and neighbors in Kibbutz Nir Oz. Bibas expressed concern about their wellbeing.
“[David Cunio] was with me in every big thing in my life. He was in my wedding,” Yarden said. “Now I’m having probably the hardest thing… [in] my life, and David is not with me… I lost my wife and kids. Sharon [Cunio] must not lose her husband.”
Keith Siegel, during his interview with “60 Minutes,” said he and Aviva were “driven into Gaza and then taken into a tunnel — feeling in danger, feeling life threatened, terrorists around us with weapons.” While in the tunnels, “we were gasping for our breath.” During the November 2023 brief hostage deal, Aviva was freed, after which the terrorists began treating Keith much worse, beating and starving him.
The interviewer asked Keith if it was certain that Hamas was starving him. Keith answered, “They would often eat in front of me and not offer any food.”
Keith explained how the hostages were only allowed to shower once a month with
a bucket of cold water and a small cup. They couldn’t stand up or walk except if they needed to use the bathroom.
“I felt that I was completely dependent on the terrorists, that my life relied on them — whether they were going to give me food, bring me water, protect me from the mobs that would lynch me,” Keith recounted. “I was left alone several times, and I was very, very scared that maybe they won’t come back and I’ll be left there. And what do I do then? … Maybe that was a way for them to torture me in a psychological way, make me think, ‘Should I escape? Should I not escape? Should I try to escape?’”
At first, Keith, Aviva, and Agam Berger were together, along with four others, in the tiny tunnel. When Aviva was released, Keith and Agam were put in separate places.
Shortly before Keith’s release in February, his captors ordered him to wave and thank Hamas during his release ceremony. “I waved to the audience. I did not say, ‘Thank you,’” he explained.
He added that he witnessed Hamas abusing, assaulting, and literally torturing female hostages.
Keith also urged Trump and the Israeli government to ensure all hostages are freed.
Tal Shoham, who was interviewed with the parents of Evyatar David and Guy Gilboa-Dalal, explained that the conditions were so awful that he and the other two considered taking their own lives. During last month’s hostage release ceremony, Hamas forced Guy and Evyatar to stand in the crowd and watch, after which they were thrown back into the tunnels. Tal recounted how they were given tiny portions of pita, rice, and water.
“Sometimes the water tastes like blood, sometimes like iron. Sometimes it was so salty that you could not drink it, but you don’t have anything else,” Tal explained, adding that a terrorist once said they were being given just enough food to live. “You won’t die, but you will have the worst time,” he was told.
The captors would offer more food in exchange for back rubs from the hostages.
“It’s worse than how they treat animals,” said Guy’s father.
When the interviewer asked how she could bear to listen to such terrible details about her son’s conditions, Evyatar’s mother said, “I want everyone to listen because this is the reality. Maybe someone will hear it, and it will save our sons.”
Hashem yishmor.
Since schools in the Gaza Strip have been largely unused since the war in Gaza broke out on October 7, the Palestinian Authority’s Education Ministry, on September 15, 2024, launched a collection of online textbooks for Gazan students. Most schools in the Strip use the PA’s books.
The PA has claimed the books are about “essential subjects and fundamental concepts.” However, an analysis by the Institute for Monitoring Peace and Cultural Tolerance in School Education (IMPACT-se), a watchdog group based in Israel and the United Kingdom, shows that the PA’s books teach and promote antisemitism and terrorism in every subject, including math.
As the organization’s CEO, Marcus Sheff, said, “Palestinian classrooms remain a breeding ground for extremism, with new educational materials reinforcing the same old dangerous narratives.”
He noted, “This moment was the acid test for the Palestinian Authority. It signed an agreement with the European Union committing to reform its curriculum. Instead, we see once again that the PA continues to embed hatred and violence in its curriculum.”
An eleventh grade history text says that the Jewish people have lied about their “semitic ethnic traits” and spread the “falsehood” that “there is no solution to the Jewish problem other than the establishment of a Jewish state in the Promised Land (Palestine).” The text calls the Jewish settlement of Israel “Zionist colonialism … in Palestine.”
A lesson about Islam that refers to a text that brands Jews as liars asks students to consider whether a warning about resisting “the temptation of enemies” refers solely to Jews.
Additionally, the PA’s textbooks promote terrorism and martyrdom. A reading exercise for first graders teaches an Arabic letter by using the word “shahid” (martyr). Second graders are taught a poem about a boy and girl who vow to
“carry the flame of the revolution” as they venture from Haifa to Jaffa to the Al-Aqsa mosque in Jerusalem. In eleventh grade, students read a text called “Martyrs of the Intifada” by Palestinian poet Fadwa Tuqan, which hails the First Intifada’s stone-throwers. A history textbook for eleventh graders also declares that “the blood of every martyr gave the Intifada the strength to continue” and that Palestinian casualties in the First Intifada were “fuel that powered the uprising.”
Beyond history and language arts, the promotion of terrorism could also be found in PA’s mathematics textbooks. Arithmetic textbooks for fourth and ninth graders have word problems that ask students to calculate how many martyrs died over a certain amount of time.
Traces of anti-Zionism are also found in the subject of geography. Three or more maps in the textbooks rename Israel to “Palestine.” One map lists 1988, the year the Palestine Liberation Organization issued a valueless declaration of independence, as the year the “state of Palestine” began.
A history textbook for eleventh graders also calls the September 11, 2001 attacks “an excuse for the United States to avoid its commitments and impose its priorities on the world, turning it into a global policeman.”
At the start of the recent ceasefire, the PA said it would be opening 680 learning centers in the Gaza Strip. To celebrate a schools openings in Khan Younis, students performed a pro-Hamas “dance” where they moved their hands in a way that resembled slitting throats and throwing rocks.
In al-Nasr Elementary, a school in Gaza City, a blackboard in a classroom had a poem praising Palestinians’ survival during the ongoing war, declaring, “You are the flood,” directly referring to the al-Aqsa Flood, which is what Hamas calls the October 7 massacre, an attack which saw thousands of Hamas terrorists invade southern Israel, killing 1,200 people, kidnapping 251 others, and maiming countless others.
In March, the cabinet of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu voted to oust Shin Bet head Ronen Bar from
his post. Though Bar still leads the agency due to a temporary High Court injunction, on Monday, Netanyahu named Bar’s successor: Eli Sharvit, a former Navy chief.
Netanyahu’s nomination of Sharvit, however, was seen as a surprise by the premier’s allies, who spoke out against the pick. Their issues with Sharvit include that he participated in Israel’s widespread protests in 2023; promoted a 2022 territorial water agreement with Lebanon; and in early 2025 wrote an opinion piece claiming that U.S. President Donald Trump’s climate policies are hurting the world and “disregard … scientific reality, the well-being of humanity, and responsibility to future generations.”
“The statements made by Eli Sharvit about President Trump and his policies will create unnecessary stress at a critical time,” wrote U.S. Senator Lindsey Graham, a Republican from South Carolina. “My advice to my Israeli friends is change course and do better vetting.”
“If he protests, he will not be the head of the Shin Bet. Let him continue to protest,” Nissim Vaturi, a Likud MK, said. Another Likud lawmaker, Tally Gotliv, declared Sharvit to be unfit to lead the Shin Bet.
Though some opposition members, including Yisrael Beytenu’s Avigdor Liberman, acknowledged that Sharvit was a great Navy commander, his appointment to Shin Bet head was strange, as he has no intelligence experience.
Sharvit led the Navy from 2016 to 2021.
On Tuesday, just 24 hours after Netanyahu had announced his pick, he retracted from appointing Sharvit as head of the Shin Bet.
“The prime minister thanked Vice Adm. Sharvit for his willingness to serve,” the Prime Minister’s Office said in a statement, “but informed him that after further thought, he intends to interview other candidates.”
In response to Netanyahu’s quick backtracking of his appointment to the position, Opposition Leader Yair Lapid
wrote, “The head of the Shin Bet is not just another appointment. It’s not a job that you announce and then regret 24 hours later because of some yelling. It’s the holy of holies. This is a violation of national security.”
National Unity party chief Benny Gantz tweeted that “Netanyahu proved it again this morning: To him, political pressure overrides the good of the country and its security.”
Religious Zionism MK Simcha Rothman, a staunch Netanyahu ally, tweeted on Tuesday to defend Netanyahu’s rethinking of the initial decision.
“The ability of an elected official to reverse a decision that the public does not like, or when his attention is drawn to it, is the heart of democracy,” wrote Rothman.
On Monday, ahead of the Knesset’s April recess, legislators passed a range of last-minute legislation.
One of the pieces of legislation was
aimed at rebuilding the south. MKs voted 37-0 to approve the third and final reading of a law providing for the extensive rehabilitation of all communities within seven kilometers of the Gaza border, defining the region as an area of special focus for activities aimed at the “rapid” return to normal life for the localities affected by Hamas’s October 7, 2023, massacre.
According to the law, over the next seven years, the government will be obligated “to act for the extensive rehabilitation of the [region] in an accelerated manner” and legally establish the role and authority of the Tekuma Directorate — a government body established after October 7 and tasked with the region’s rehabilitation.
Lawmakers also voted 39-0 to approve the third and final reading of a law mandating the establishment of the National Authority to Combat Poverty.
Sponsored by lawmakers belonging to the Arab Hadash-Ta’al party, the charedi Shas party and the left-wing The Democrats party, the law calls for the foundation of an agency under the aegis of the Welfare and Social Affairs Ministry tasked with coordinating government-wide efforts in reducing poverty over the long term — including by pre-
venting families on the verge from falling into poverty in the first place.
Shas chairman Aryeh Deri celebrated the law’s passage as a “historic day of good news for the State of Israel,” stating that the new authority will deal with issues ranging from early childhood poverty to employment and welfare and “will lead long-term programs to improve the situation of the weaker sectors” of Israeli society.
The law was also welcomed by Knesset Labor and Welfare Committee chairman Yisrael Eichler (United Torah Judaism), who said it would “prevent many families from falling into poverty,” and by Hadash-Ta’al MK and co-sponsor Aida Touma-Sliman, who described her legislation’s passage as “a significant achievement in the struggle for social justice.”
Another piece of legislation focused on cutting government benefits of those convicted of committing crimes against the state. The 38-1 vote passed a law permanently revoking national insurance benefits from people convicted of a “serious terrorist offense.” That includes murder or attempted murder for terrorist purposes, as well as those who engaged in treason or serious espionage and were sentenced to 10 years in prison.
“It’s over – terrorists will not see another shekel from the State of Israel,” declared the bill’s sponsor, Likud MK Ofir Katz.
“Today, we are correcting a huge absurdity. This law comes to put an end to one of the moral failures in the State of Israel. Terrorists receive money from us – from the State of Israel,” he said. “These people made a conscious decision to murder Jews. They harmed the State of Israel. When you are an enemy – you will not receive a budget from the country that you are trying to destroy. In what other country would you hear such a thing? This is outrageous, it is absurd, and today it ends.”
Lawmakers voted into law regulating the celebration of the annual Lag B’Omer pilgrimage to Meron.
The bill allows for just one central lighting event consisting of two bonfires to be held at the northern Israel site. Additional bonfires will only be allowed with the permission of Jerusalem Minister Meir Porush, after it has been determined that certain conditions have been met. The law also requires the issuance of permits to enter the site during the pilgrimage and establishes fines for those engaged in unsanctioned bonfires.
Another bill advanced this week included one that would disqualify a candi-
date from running in municipal elections if they have denied the existence of the State of Israel as Jewish and democratic, or expressed support for terrorism or armed struggle against the State of Israel.
“We are putting an end to the terrible absurdity in which terror supporters can be elected to local government,” Likud MK Dan Illouz (Likud), the initiator of the legislation, said.
Another bill, which passed its first reading 16-1, would prohibit people with academic degrees from Palestinian institutions from teaching in Israeli schools.
In addition, lawmakers voted 23-2 to approve the first reading of a bill to replace the term “West Bank” with “Judea and Samaria,” the biblical term for the region, in all Knesset legislation.
The legislation, by Religious Zionism MK Simcha Rothman, stipulates that no other term or designation other than “Judea and Samaria” will be used in legislation and that it will replace any other terminology used in existing legislation.
After dozens of Palestinians protested against Hamas last week, the terror organization vowed to exact retribution against those who go against them. On Saturday, the body of Oday Nasser Al Rabay was left in front of his family’s home. Al Rabay, 22, had participated in the protests.
At his funeral, people were filmed shouting, “Hamas out.”
Palestinians had protested against Hamas for three days last week. Hamas, which has ruled Gaza since 2007, said that protests were against Israel and not Hamas, although footage shows the contrary.
Hamas wants to crack down on those participating in the protests but cannot do so due to Israel’s resumed operations in Gaza, as the IDF is targeting terror operatives that it spots out in the open, according to the report. IDF operations resumed in Gaza on March 18.
Last Wednesday, 19-year-old Sgt. Yosef Chaim Tzvi Serlin collapsed and died
following Krav Maga training overnight.
Serlin, from Jerusalem, was in combat training in the Military Intelligence Directorate’s Unit 504, which specializes in HUMINT, or human intelligence. He was posthumously promoted to the rank of sergeant.
The military said he collapsed following the training at an army base in northern Israel, was treated by medics, and was taken to a hospital where his death was declared.
The IDF Military Police launched an investigation into the incident, and the findings will be sent to the Military Advocate General for examination, the army added. Other experts will be brought in to investigate the tragedy.
Additionally, the commander of the IDF Ground Forces, Maj. Gen. Nadav Lotan, ordered a halt to Krav Maga train-
ing in the military until Sunday, while the investigation was carried out.
On Shabbos, at around 1 p.m., tragedy struck Brooklyn when a young mother and two of her children were killed in a car crash as they were walking on Ocean Parkway. Another child, a four-year-old boy, was critically injured in the crash.
Sara Natasha Saada, a”h, was 34 years old. Her two young daughters, Dina Bracha, a”h, and Devorah Mazal, a”h, were six and eight years old.
The three victims were brought to Israel for kevurah and were buried on Har HaMenuchos.
The driver of the car was speeding and was driving a car with no insurance and with a suspended license. She had a history of racking up traffic tickets.
“I will call it like it is. This was a horrific tragedy caused by someone who shouldn’t have been on the road,” Police Commissioner Jessica Tisch told reporters. “A mother and two young children killed. Another child fighting for his life. A family and a neighborhood devastated.”
Another car was involved in the crash, as the Audi driven by the perpetrator rearended a Toyota Camry before mowing down Natasha and her children.
The 63-year-old driver of the Toyota suffered minor injuries, as did a 35-year-old woman, a four-year-old girl, a five-yearold boy, and a 12-year-old boy in the car.
Mayor Eric Adams lamented the loss.
“A tragic, tragic accident of a Shakespearean proportion, to see a mother and her two children lost to a vehicle crash. This is extremely concerning and painful, not only to the city of New York in general, but
specifically to a very close-knit community. Mother going for a simple stroll on a sunny day, was struck and killed, as we pray for their families and this entire community, the city mourns,” Adams said.
The driver of the Audi was charged with three counts of second-degree manslaughter, three counts of criminally negligent homicide, four counts of second-degree assault, reckless driving, failing to yield, speeding and unlicensed operation of a motor vehicle, police said Sunday. Rav Elimelech Biderman gave words of chizuk and emunah at the burial on Har HaMenuchos. HaRishon L’Tzion Rabbi David Yosef also delivered divrei hesped. HaRav Moshe Hillel Hirsch, shlit”a, who was close to the father and husband of the deceased, also attended the burial.
Kseniia Petrova, a Russian medical researcher at Harvard University, is be-
ing detained at a Louisiana immigration facility after her visa was revoked last month over undeclared frog embryo samples found in her luggage.
Petrova had been in the U.S. on a J-1 scholar visa since May 2023, working at Harvard University. Her lawyer, Gregory Romanovsky, said Petrova is fighting the possible deportation back to Russia for fear of persecution and jail time over her protests decrying the Ukraine war.
On February 16, Petrova returned from France to Boston’s Logan Airport from a work trip and passed through immigration without issue. While awaiting her luggage, two Customs and Border Patrol (CBP) officers took her into a room to inspect her luggage and searched her phone. They found a sample of frog embryos from her research.
“They find a sample, scientific sample of frog embryos that she was bringing at the request of her principal investigator, her professor at Harvard, from the lab in France that they are collaborating with,” Romanovsky said. “She had that in her luggage, and she did not declare it. She had no previous experience with bringing samples. She didn’t really think this through. She didn’t she didn’t look up the requirements. It was her fault. She was supposed to declare that item. She did not.”
Investigators offered Petrova two choices. The first was to withdraw her application for admission to the U.S. and leave voluntarily, with the opportunity to go to an embassy in another country and apply for a visa to re-enter the U.S. The second was that CBP would issue an order of expedited removal, and she’d be put on a plane back to Paris. However, due to a ban on re-entry under an order of deportation, she wouldn’t be able to return to the U.S. for at least five years.
Petrova chose to withdraw her application for admission. She asked officials
not to notify the Russian consulate of what happened since she has a history of protesting the Ukraine war and was arrested in Russian in 2022 for doing so.
Petrova is set to appear before an immigration judge in Louisiana on May 7.
Harvard confirmed in a statement on Friday that she is a research associate at Harvard Medical School, saying, “We are monitoring this situation.”
Mr. Pugsley Addams has quite the tale, I mean, tail. The 2-year-old cat recently was awarded a Guinness World Record for his record-long tail.
The appendage measures a whopping 18.5 inches long.
Amanda Cameron said that Pugsley has always had a long tail. The subject even came up during his first visit to the vet. The vet mentioned it again six months later – and that inspired Cameron’s kids to investigate. They put in some research into the Guinness World Records for the longest tail on a domestic living cat.
“And what do you know? To our shock, Pugsley beat it,” Cameron said.
Aside from the long tail, Pugsley is also a remarkably easy-going and friendly feline.
“Everybody always wants to meet
him and falls in love with his calm demeanor. He is pretty level-headed, even in new situations that might be scary for some cats,” she said. “He is super soft and is always purring. He’s just a great little guy to be around. When we go out and about, they call him a ‘local celebrity.’”
Sounds just about purr-fect.
One little boy in Kansas didn’t want to go to bed. In an effort to delay bedtime, he told his babysitter that a monster was hiding underneath his bed.
But when the babysitter played along and “checked” under the bed to assure the boy that there was nothing there but dust bunnies, she was in for a surprise.
When she looked underneath the bed, she came across a man, who had been hiding under the bed.
The man ran away but was caught by police.
It turns out that the perp used to live in the home but there was a protection from abuse order issued against him to stay away from the property, the sheriff’s office said. He had posted bond ten days earlier after being put under the abuse order. This time around, the judge jailed him without bond.
Talk about a nightmare.
Paul Broome passed away at the age of 55, but he held onto his sense of humor until the end.
Loved ones said Broome was known for his “quick wit and mischievous sense of humor.”
Before his death, the chocolate bar lover often joked about having a Snickers-themed coffin – a wish his family made sure to fulfill in his final farewell. They had a large coffin that looked like a Snickers bar emblazoned with the words “I’m nuts” on it.
“Paul’s family informed us that he
was one of life’s true characters, and his farewell needed to reflect that,” the funeral arranger said.
Broome also loved soccer and had amassed more than 40 shirts of the Crystal Palace FC team. The coffin also had the logo of the team on it.
As a parting tribute, the funeral procession passed by Broome’s favorite café There, friends gathered outside wearing custom tribute t-shirts and clapped as the coffin passed away.
You know what they say: “Not going anywhere for a while? Grab a Snickers.”
Sometimes treasure is found in the oddest of places.
Heidi Markow owns Salvage Goods Antiques in Pennsylvania. Recently, a drawing at an auction at an antique store caught her eye.
“I didn’t pick it up. I didn’t turn it around. I basically looked at it and I thought, ‘I just want that piece,’” Markow said.
She told her partner and son to bid on the 17.5-inch-by-16.5-inch piece and continued wandering around.
“There were paintings that were going for $1,000, $2,000, $3,000 as they moved down the line,” she told NBC10 “And this was just sitting there.”
Other items at the auction sold for thousands. But Markow’s pick went for just $12. But it wasn’t no ordinary drawing. At home, Markow, a certified art appraiser, noted the antique frame’s “meticulous condition,” the type of paper, and a stamp on the back signifying it was brought to the United States by a high-end importer and sold to a prominent collector.
Those clues led the expert to conclude that the faint signature she spotted on the piece belongs to the legendary French impressionist Pierre-Auguste Renoir.
Research has led her to suspect the piece is a portrait of Renoir’s wife, Aline Charigot, dating back to the late 1800s during his Ingres period, when “he paid a lot of attention to light and shading.”
Since then, Markow contacted Sotheby’s, who seemed to concur with her conclusion. She also reached out to a firm that authenticates pieces.
If the piece is verified as an original Renoir, Markow hopes to sell it — for about “six or seven figures” — to someone who appreciates impressionist art and will display it in their home.
“This is what I call a framed masterpiece,” Markow said.
W E D D I N G P A C K A G E
As the long winter winds to an end and Yidden across the spectrum cherish the memories of an exhilarating Purim and ready themselves to begin Pesach preparations in earnest, lomdei Oraysa are preparing for a new Masechta - Maseches Taanis.
Thousands of lomdim worldwide relished the experience of being connected to Purim in a meaningful way this year more than any other, after having spent the last few months immersed in the relevant sugyos and halachos of Purim as they are found in Maseches Megillah.
While the order of Masechtos in Shas places Taanis after Beitzah, upon the advice of Gedolei Yisroel in Eretz Yisroel and the United States, Oraysa learned Maseches Megilah first in order to give lomdei Oraysa the benefit and geshmak of בוט המ ותעב רבד, delving into the sugyos of Megillah as they headed into Purim.
This decision proved to be a resounding success throughout the world of Oraysa lomdim. This decision proved to be a resounding success throughout the world of Oraysa lomdim, as it enabled them to put their learning into practice and celebrate Purim on a deeper level.
Now, with Purim behind us, lomdei Oraysa are excited to take the next step in the incredible voyage through Shas with the Amud V’Chazara
program, beginning Meseches Taanis on Wednesday, April 9 (ןסינ א"י). This will afford lomdim the sensation of entering the Yom Tov of freedom with a renewed commitment to Torah, as Chazal tell us —
Taanis is a fundamental mesechta, which discusses many aspects of tefillah, the importance of rain and the laws of communal fasts. It is also a treasure trove of Aggadah, especially in the third perek, which sheds light on the piety of the ארמגהו הנשמה ימכח.
With every passing Masechta, Oraysa sees extraordinary growth אימשד אתעייסב, with dozens of new chaburos and hundreds of individuals joining all over the world.
Oraysa is a global initiative designed to unite lomdei Torah worldwide through a structured daily seder halimud. It provides a framework to learn, review and retain Shas, and delve into the sugyos at a pace that works.
The Oraysa Amud V’Chazara program was developed in collaboration with leading Roshei Yeshiva and Gedolei Yisroel to address the growing demand for a Gemara learning framework that balances consistent progress with meaningful review.
The program’s structured yet flexible approach of a daily amud
with Friday and Shabbos dedicated to chazara, makes it accessible to lomdei Torah across the spectrum, from kollel yungerleit to baalei batim and mechanchim. With Oraysa, every participant, regardless of their background or schedule, is afforded the ability to grow in limud haTorah and deepen their connection to learning, each on their own level.
Baruch Hashem, in the past 5 years, Oraysa has become more than just a framework. It has evolved into a global movement, connecting approximately 30,000 lomdim and 410 chaburos across 110 cities worldwide.
Join the thousands of lomdei Oraysa as they embark on their journey through the sugyos of Maseches Taanis. Savor the satisfaction
of learning in a goal-oriented way with a built-in system for review and retention, paving the way for a true connection to Shas.
To join the program, for more information, or to help establish a chabura in your community, contact Oraysa at 914.8.ORAYSA or email info@oraysa.org.
WhenMrs. Sarah Goldstein* first arrived at
Aventura at the Heights, she was apprehensive. A fiercely independent woman, she had always maintained her own home and routine. The transition to senior living felt like giving up control.
Until she met the people.
The warm friends, the caring staff, and the Med Tech who remembered how she liked her coffee changed everything.
Aventura at the Heights is more than a facility – it’s a home where personal connections and preferences matter. Formerly known as Tudor Heights, it remains in the heart of Pikesville but has undergone a full transformation. Residents are welcomed into a modern, inviting space where independence and support go hand in hand. With flexible care options, individuals receive the assistance they need while maintaining their autonomy.
“Over my 26 years here, I’ve seen this place evolve while holding onto its heart – genuine,
compassionate care,” shares Sheila Simmons, a longtime staff member. Many employees have been with Aventura for decades, fostering deep bonds with the 30+ residents.
isn’t just a service here – it’s a commitment.
For Esther Cohen, a resident of two years, the fit was immediate. “Aventura has exceeded all my expectations,” she says. “From the excellent kosher cuisine to the engaging activities and rich Jewish life –everything is outstanding.”
Birthdays and family occasions are celebrated with enthusiasm, staff remember residents’ favorite seats, and the atmosphere is vibrant yet peaceful.
“Aventura gives me independence with support when I need it,” shares Rochelle Blumberg, a resident of four years. This mid-size community balances personal attention with a full suite of amenities, including rehabilitation services, a salon, gym, and therapy. Neglect and isolation are unheard of here – families instead speak of dignity, peace of mind, and joy.
Seniors have choices in every aspect of their
stay, from medical care to meal options. The little things matter – an aide taking extra time to chat, residents looking out for one another, and families being truly welcomed. Temporary stays for Yom Tov, summer, or any length of time provide respite care with all the comforts of home.
Jewish life is vibrant, with a shul, Sefer Torah, in-house rabbi, and Shabbos and Yom Tov essentials, complemented by a deluxe kosher menu from renowned Chef Menash. Financial flexibility ensures affordability without sacrificing quality care.
Aventura isn’t just a senior living facility – it’s a place where life is celebrated, traditions are honored, and every resident is valued.
Mercaz Torah U’Tefillah: EVERY 15 MINUTES
M-F: 6:15 AM, S-F: 6:30 AM, 6:45 AM, 7:00 AM, 7:15 AM, 7:30 AM, 7:45 AM, 8:00 AM, 8:15 AM, 8:30 AM, 8:45 AM, 9:00AM, 9:15AM, 9:30AM, 9:45AM, 10:00AM
Neitz Beit Yaakov [Sefaradi] M-F
Ohel Yakov S-F
6:00 AM Shomrei Emunah Congregation M-F
6:10 AM Agudath Israel of Baltimore M, Th
6:15 AM Kol Torah M, TH
Shearith Israel Congregation M, TH
The Adas: Chofetz Chaim Adas Bnei Israel M, TH
6:20 AM Agudah of Greenspring M, TH
Agudath Israel of Baltimore S, T, W, F
Arugas HaBosem (Rabbi Taub's) S-F
Bnai Jacob Shaarei Zion Congregation M-F
Kehilath B'nai Torah M, TH
Pikesville Jewish CongregationM, TH
Shomrei Emunah Congregation S, M, TH
6:25 AM The Adas: Chofetz Chaim Adas Bnei Israel T, W, F
6:30 AM Agudah of Greenspring T, W, F
Chabad of Park Heights M-F
Darchei Tzedek M-F
Kehilath B'nai Torah T, W, F
Khal Bais Nosson M-F
Khal Ahavas Yisroel/ Tzemach Tzedek M-F
Kol Torah T, W, F
Ohr Yisroel M-F
Pikesville Jewish CongregationT, W, F
Shearith Israel Congregation T, W, F
Shomrei Emunah Congregation T, W, F
6:35 AM Aish Kodesh (downstairs Minyan) M, TH
Ohel Moshe M, TH
6:40 AM Aish Kodesh (downstairs Minyan) T, W, F
Bnai Jacob Shaarei Zion Congregation M, TH
6:45 AM B”H and Mesivta of Baltimore (Dirshu Minyan) S-F
Beth Abraham M, TH
Greenspring Sephardic Synagogue M-F
Ner Tamid M-F
Ohel Moshe T, W, F
Suburban Orthodox Congregation Toras Chaim M-F
6:50 AM Agudath Israel of Baltimore M, TH
Ahavat Shalom [Sefaradi] M, TH
Bais Medrash of Ranchleigh M, TH
Bnai Jacob Shaarei Zion Congregation T, W, F
Community Kollel Tiferes Moshe Aryeh M, TH
Derech Chaim M-F
Kol Torah M-F
Ohel Moshe S
Ohr Hamizrach [Sefaradi] M, TH
Shomrei Emunah Congregation M, TH
The Shul at the Lubavitch Center M, TH
6:55 AM Beth Abraham T, W, F
Kol Torah M, TH
7:00 AM Aish Kodesh (upstairs Minyan) M-F
Agudath Israel of Baltimore S, T, W, F
Ahavat Shalom [Sefaradi] T, W, F
Arugas HaBosem (Rabbi Taub's)S
Bais Medrash of Ranchleigh T, W, F
Community Kollel Tiferes Moshe Aryeh T, W, F Greenspring Sephardic Synagogue S Khal Ahavas Yisroel/ Tzemach TzedekS
Kol Torah T, W, F
Moses Montefiore Anshe Emunah M-F
Ohr Hamizrach [Sefaradi] S, T, W, F
Shearith Israel Congregation S, M, TH
Shomrei Emunah Congregation T, W, F
Shomrei Mishmeres Hakodesh M-F
The Shul at the Lubavitch Center T, W, F Tiferes Yisroel M-F
7:05 AM Machzikei Torah (Sternhill's) M, TH
7:15 AM Kedushas Yisrael S Kol Torah S
Machzikei Torah (Sternhill's) S, T, W, F Ner Israel Rabbinical College S-F
edits, additions, or sponsorships, email ads@baltimorejewishhome.com
Shearith Israel Congregation T, W, F
Shomrei Emunah CongregationS
Suburban Orthodox Congregation Toras Chaim S
The Adas: Chofetz Chaim Adas Bnei IsraelS
Tzeirei Anash M-F
7:20 AM Agudath Israel of Baltimore M, TH
Beth Tfiloh Congregation M-F
Kol Torah M-F
Ohr Hamizrach [Sefaradi] M, TH
Shomrei Emunah Congregation M, TH
7:30 AM Agudah of Greenspring S
Agudath Israel of Baltimore S, T, W, F
Ahavat Shalom [Sefaradi] S
Bais Haknesses Ohr HaChaim S-F
Bais Hamedrash and Mesivta of Baltimore S-F
Bais Medrash of Ranchleigh S
Beit Yaakov [Sefaradi] S
Bnai Jacob Shaarei Zion CongregationS
Chabad of Park Heights S
Community Kollel Tiferes Moshe Aryeh S-F
Darchei Tzedek S
Kedushas Yisrael S-F
Khal Bais Nosson S
Ner Israel Rabbinical College (Mechina) S-F
Ohr Hamizrach [Sefaradi] S, T, W, F
Shomrei Emunah Congregation T, W, F
7:45 AM Bnai Jacob Shaarei Zion Congregation M-F
Talmudical Academy S-F
Darchei Tzedek M-F
Mesivta Kesser Torah S-F
Mesivta Shaarei Chaim S-F
7:50 AM Derech Chaim S
Ner Tamid S
Ohel Moshe M-F
8:00 AM Agudath Israel of Baltimore S-F
Beth Abraham S
Chabad Israeli Center M-F
Darchei Tzedek S
Khal Ahavas Yisroel/ Tzemach TzedekS
Kehillas Meor HaTorah S
Ohr Yisroel S
Pikesville Jewish CongregationS
Shearith Israel Congregation S
Shomrei Emunah Congregation S-F
The Shul at the Lubavitch CenterS
Tiferes Yisroel S Tzeirei Anash S
Yeshiva Tiferes Hatorah S-F
8:15 AM Kehilath B'nai Torah S Kol Torah S
8:20 AM Bais Haknesses Ohr HaChaim S-F
8:25 AM Ohr Chadash Academy (School Days Only) S-F
8:30 AM Agudath Israel of Baltimore S-F
Chabad Israeli Center S
Machzikei Torah (Sternhill's) S-F
Ohel Moshe S
Ohr Hamizrach [Sefaradi] S
Shomrei Emunah Congregation S-F
Shomrei Mishmeres HakodeshS
9:00 AM Aish Kodesh S
Agudath Israel of Baltimore S-F
Bais Haknesses Ohr HaChaim S
Beth Tfiloh Congregation S
Bnai Jacob Shaarei Zion CongregationS
Moses Montefiore Anshe EmunahS
Shomrei Emunah Congregation S-F
Suburban Orthodox Congregation Toras Chaim S-F
Mincha Gedolah Mercaz Torah U’Tefillah
Khal Ahavas Yisroel/Tzemach Tzedek
1:50 PM Ohel Moshe
1 South Street, 27th Floor.
2:00 PM Agudath Israel of Baltimore (S-F)
Big Al @ The Knish Shop Party Room
Kol Torah
Market Maven
Reischer Minyan - 23 Walker Ave 2nd Floor
10055 Red Run Blvd Suite 295
2:15 PM Pikesville Beis Medrash - 15 Walker Ave
2:30 PM Bais Medrash of Ranchleigh
Community Kollel Tiferes Moshe Aryeh
Tov Pizza Mincha Minyan
Ner Israel Rabbinical College
Mesivta Shaarei Chaim (Community Kollel)
Shearith Israel Congregation
2:45 PM Kollel of Greenspring
Shearith Israel Congregation (S-Th)
3:00 PM Agudath Israel of Baltimore (S-F)
Bais Haknesses Ohr HaChaim
Mercaz Torah U'Tefillah
3:05 PM Kedushas Yisrael
3:15 PM Hat Box
3:22 PM Ohr Chadash Academy (School Days Only, Call to Confirm)
3:30 PM Mercaz Torah U’Tefillah
4:00 PM Agudath Israel of Baltimore (S-Th) Mercaz Torah U'Tefillah
4:30 PM Mercaz Torah U’Tefillah
5:00 PM Agudath Israel of Baltimore (S-F) Mercaz Torah U’Tefillah
5:30 PM Agudath Israel of Baltimore (S-Th)
Mercaz Torah U’Tefillah
6:00 PM Agudath Israel of Baltimore (S-F) Mercaz Torah U’Tefillah
Shearith Israel Congregation (S-Th)
6:30 PM Agudath Israel of Baltimore (S-Th)
Mercaz Torah U’Tefillah
10 Min Before ShkiAh Chabad Israeli Center
14 Min Before ShkiAh Kol Torah
Ohel Yaakov
Shomrei Emunah Congregation
Plag
Suburban Orthodox Congregation Toras Chaim
Before Shkiah
Aish Kodesh
Agudath Israel of Baltimore
Agudah of Greenspring
Bais Haknesses Ohr HaChaim
Beth Abraham
Bnai Jacob Shaarei Zion Congregation
Darchei Tzedek
Kehillas Meor HaTorah
Kehilath B’nai Torah
Khal Ahavas Yisroel/ Tzemach Tzedek
Machzikei Torah (Sternhill’s)
Mercaz Torah U’Tefillah
Ner Tamid
Ohel Moshe
Ohr Hamizrach [Sefaradi]
Ohr Yisroel
Pikesville Jewish Congregation
Shearith Israel Congregation
Shomrei Emunah Congregation
Shomrei Mishmeres
Suburban Orthodox Congregation Toras Chaim
The Adas: Chofetz Chaim Adas Bnei Israel
The Shul at the Lubavitch Center
Tiferes Yisroel
Mercaz Torah U’Tefillah: EVERY 15 MINUTES 8:15
8:00 PM Agudath Israel of Baltimore
8:30 PM Agudath Israel of Baltimore
8:45 PM Darchei Tzedek
Ner Israel Rabbinical College (Mechina) Ohr Yisroel
8:50 PM Mesivta Shaarei Chaim (Etz Chaim Building)
8:55 PM Community Kollel Tiferes Moshe Aryeh
continued
9:00 PM Agudath Israel of Baltimore
Arugas Habosem
Shomrei Emunah Congregation
Suburban Orthodox Congregation Toras Chaim
9:20 PM Kol Torah
9:30 PM Agudah of Greenspring
Agudath Israel of Baltimore
Kedushas Yisrael
9:40 PM Ahavat Shalom [Sefaradi]
9:45 PM Bais Haknesses Ohr HaChaim
Kollel Erev Birchas Yitzchok (Luries)
Kollel of Greenspring
Machzikei Torah (Sternhill's)
Ohr Hamizrach [Sefaradi]
Yeshiva Tiferes Hatorah
9:50 PM Aish Kodesh
Community Kollel Tiferes Moshe Aryeh
Ohel Moshe
10:00 PM Agudath Israel of Baltimore
Darchei Tzedek
Kehilath B'nai Torah
Khal Ahavas Yisroel/ Tzemach Tzedek
Shearith Israel Congregation
Shomrei Emunah Congregation
10:05 PM Kol Torah
10:10 PM Ner Israel Rabbinical College
10:15 PM Derech Chaim
Khal Bais Nosson
10:30 PM Agudath Israel of Baltimore
11:00 PM Agudath Israel of Baltimore
11:30 PM Agudath Israel of Baltimore
Agudah of Greenspring - 6107 Greenspring Ave
Agudath Israel of Baltimore - 6200 Park Heights Ave
Ahavat Shalom - 3009 Northbrook Rd
Aish Kodesh - 6207 Ivymount Rd
Arugas HaBosem - 3509 Clarks Ln
Bais Dovid-Bais Medrash of Summit Park- 6800 Sylvale Ct
Bais Haknesses Ohr HaChaim - 3120 Clarks Ln
Bais Hamedrash and Mesivta of Baltimore - 6823 Old Pimlico Rd
Bais Medrash of Ranchleigh - 6618 Deancroft Rd
Beit Yaakov - 3615 Seven Mile Ln
Beth Abraham - 6208 Wallis Ave
Beth Tfiloh Congregation - 3300 Old Court Rd
Bnai Jacob Shaarei Zion Congregation - 6602 Park Heights Ave
Chabad Israeli Center - 7807 Seven Mile Ln
Chabad of Park Heights - 3402 Clarks Ln
Community Kollel Tiferes Moshe Aryeh - 3800 Labyrinth Rd
Darchei Tzedek - 3201 Seven Mile Ln
Derech Chaim - 6603 Pimlico Road
Greenspring Sephardic Synagogue 6611 Greenspring Ave.
Kedushas Yisrael - 6004 Park Heights Ave
Kehilath B’nai Torah - 6301 Green Meadow Pkwy
Kehillas Meor HaTorah - 6539 Pebble Brooke Rd
Khal Ahavas Yisroel/ Tzemach Tzedek - 6811 Park Heights Ave
Khal Bais Nosson - 2901 Taney Rd
Kol Torah - 2929 Fallstaff Rd
Kollel of Greenspring - 6504 Greenspring Ave.
Machzikei Torah - 6216 Biltmore Ave
Mercaz Torah U’Tefillah - 6500 Baythorne Rd
Mesivta Kesser Torah - 8400 Park Heights Ave
Mesivta Shaarei Chaim - 3800 Labyrinth Rd
Moses Montefiore Anshe Emunah - 7000 Rockland Hills Dr
Neuberger, Quinn, Gielen, Rubin & Gibber One South Street, 27th Floor
Ner Israel Rabbinical College - 400 Mt Wilson Ln
Ner Tamid - 6214 Pimlico Road
Ohel Moshe - 2808 Smith Ave
Ohel Yakov - 3200 Glen Ave
Ohr Chadash Academy - 7310 Park Heights Avenue
Ohr Hamizrach [Sefaradi] - 6813 Park Heights Ave
Ohr Yisroel - 2429 Lightfoot Dr
Pikesville Jewish Congregation - 7644 Carla Rd
Shearith Israel Congregation - 5835 Park Heights Ave
Shomrei Emunah Congregation - 6221 Greenspring Ave
Shomrei Mishmeres Hakodesh - 2821 W Strathmore Ave
Suburban Orthodox Congregation Toras Chaim - 7504 Seven Mile Ln
Talmudical Academy - 4445 Old Court Rd
The Adas: Chofetz Chaim Adas Bnei Israel - 5915 Park Heights Ave
The Shul at the Lubavitch Center - 6701 Old Pimlico Rd
Tiferes Yisroel - 6201 Park Heights Ave
Tzeirei Anash - 6706 Cross County Blvd
Wealcatch Insurance - 37 Walker Ave 2nd floor
Yeshiva Tiferes Hatorah - 6819 Williamson Ave
By Rabbi Zvi Teichman
There are four basic tastes in the foods we consume — sweet, bitter, sour, and salty.
In the offerings that are placed on the Mizbeach, the Altar, two tastes are precluded from being present.
...you may not burn anything fermented or sweet as a fire offering to G-d (Vayikra 2 11)
The Holy Kotzker would translate this injunction as a directive for life as an Oved Hashem:
Nisht tzu poyar und nisht tzu heimish — not too coarse nor too chummy, or alternately, nisht tzu zoyar und nisht tzu zees — not too sour nor too sweet.
Finding the perfect balance between reverence and love in our relationship with G-d, and never becoming soured in our devotion nor overly confident, are just some of the goals intimated in this pithy guidance for life.
Salt though, plays a prominent role in the bringing of sacrifices not only representing ‘suffering’ as purposeful in cleansing ourselves from sin, but perhaps more importantly in its message that when viewed properly it brings out the robust flavor inherent in our souls.
What about bitterness, is there a place for that in our Avodas Hashem?
There was another ingredient that accompanies most meal-offerings and was one of the ingredients in the Ketores — Incense: Levonah — Frankincense.
This item was placed upon the Mincha — Meal-offering, with its salt, and burned together upon the Altar, adding an exquisite scent.
It is alleged to possess a bitter taste. Could bitterness be a positive attitude one would implement in life?
On Pesach we eat the Marror, a bitter herb, recalling the verse that describes how “they embittered their lives with hard labor...”
Have you ever wondered why we commemorate the ‘bitterness’ by eating something bitter?
Wouldn’t it be more effective if we walked outside in the mud, barefoot, on a bed of pointy straw allowing it to bloody the bare soles of our feet, as the Pirkei D’Rebbe Eliezer so depicts the harrowing details of the painful brick making in Egypt?
The Midrash informs that although the Jews were initially destined to be enslaved for 400 years the actual time served was reduced to 210 years. This was attributed to the intensification of the slavery within a shorter span, that equaled the originally intended suffering that was to be spread with less harshness over the longer era.
The period of cruel decrees that were divinely initiated to serve to speed the process of redemption was presaged when the Torah describes, they embittered their lives. From this point until the exodus was 86 years long. This number corresponds to the age of Miriam at the time of liberation. Indeed, the commentaries point out that she was so named precisely because she was born at the onset of the most ‘bitter’ phase, thus she was called םירמ, emphasizing the 'רמ', the bitter and difficult epoch.
It seems strange that a parent would name their child commemorating pain rather than hope!
What legacy could be in store for a child with so harsh of a name and all its bleak implications?
רמ, more accurately means to ‘oppose’ as in the word 'ירמ', rebellion. When we succumb to our fears and
lose hope because of all the challenges that ‘oppose’ us, we are destined to becoming embittered with dejection and despair. If we however ‘resist’ the inclination to give up, we have hope of discovering the sweetness of life and all its prospects.
Miriam was so named to stave off the bitterness that prevailed at the time of her birth. She possessed the positiveness needed to fight off the temptation to surrender to misery.
In fact, she lived up to her name.
When Amram saw that Pharaoh decreed all boys should be cast into the water and realized the futility in raising children he promptly divorced his wife. The rest of the Jews followed suit and did likewise. Miriam confronted her father with three arguments: Your decree is worse than Pharaoh’s! He only decreed against the boys; you will cause that also girls will not be born! Pharaohs’ decree is only in this world, your decree also affects the world to come! It is uncertain whether Pharaoh’s decree would be fulfilled, but you are a Tzaddik, and your decree will certainly be fulfilled.
Miriam was all of five years old, yet she boldly ‘opposes’ her father. Surprisingly, he listens and responds, remarrying his wife Yocheved, with Miriam singing and dancing joyously before them.
So often we get caught up with chesbonos — calculations of the ‘big picture’ that impede and cloud our clarity of vision. Miriam with her youthful and pure exuberance, her hope and innocence, sees the opportunity in the moment. The raising of the daughters, the joy of a boy being born — even if it short lived, affording it a share in the world to come, and the anticipation of possible better times, was a reality even Amram did not perceive readily.
One can adapt a ‘bitter’ attitude towards life and all its travails, or one can select to seek the sweetness that is always there. One can drown in worry or regale in the opportunities at hand. No one ever knows the length of time one will be dispensed on this earth. Every moment is laden with prospects to grasp eternity.
Many herbs that are naturally bitter are poisonous. But many despite their oppositional taste possess miraculous curative qualities. Evidently this ‘bitter’ taste is not embedded in these
plants to refrain from ingesting them, but rather to pay attention and channel it for our betterment.
It has been observed that although one might have thought that bitterness of taste would be intolerable, humans have the genetic capacity to adapt to its taste and enjoy it. I will drink a beer in testament to that! The bitterness in bittersweet chocolate is attributed to the precious antioxidants that contribute towards our healthy hearts.
We all have warm memories of Seders past.
The image of my grandparents sitting with faces of indescribable contentment are forever etched in my mind. One grandfather lost children in the Holocaust, the other lost a wife, son and daughter to illness, enduring poverty during the great depression, and raising the rest of his children alone. Yet, they never became embittered, always moving forward in life rejoicing in the blessings they had.
Of course, there was Uncle Abe, the coolest man on earth. He smoked Camels without a filter and drove a Pontiac convertible. With his thin moustache and fedora, he was a spittin’ image of Clark Gable and belted out zemiros as if he was Caruso.
When it came to eating Marror, he out-marrored us all. He would turn colors and gasp as we calmly waited for him to recover, as we knew our hero always would.
He was man who worked hard for a living, never becoming rich despite his greatest efforts, losing his only son to cancer, but never lost his verve for life. He understood the secret quality of Marror, the special quality our nation possesses to oppose all bitterness, in the spirit of Miriam, and sing and dance with joy over our lot.
It is in our DNA. We must simply access it.
The predicament in Israel continues to prod bitter tears. But we are still standing proud. We have so much to celebrate.
May we ward off bitterness in our lives and merit to taste the sweetness of life every moment of our existence!
You may reach the author at: Ravzt@ohelmoshebaltimore.com
The parshah discusses the various voluntary offerings that may be brought by an individual, including the burnt-offering, the mealoffering, and the peace-offering.
Other offerings, such as the sin offerings, guilt offerings, and more are taught as well.
“The over-emphasis on ‘I’ and the loss of ‘We’ leaves us isolated and vulnerable. It is not good to be alone.”
Inspiration Everywhere
Rabbi Lord J. Sacks zt”l
The numerical value of הליזגה
(one must return that which is stolen) is 784, which so happens to be the exact same as
, the holiday in which we receive the Torah.
Any identity that we have other than Torah is a stolen/fake identity. We are inherently one with the Torah. We say
ךתרותל , return us to Your Torah! Let us ensure that we return to that truth!
BH, my new book for Pesach, Karpas: The Big Dipper, is now available on Amazon! Check it out!
Rabbi Ori Strum is the author of “Ready. Set. Grow.” “Dove Tales,” and “Karpas: The Big Dipper.”
His shiurim and other Jewish content can be found on Torah Anytime and Meaningful Minute.
You can reach him at 443-938-0822 or oristrum@torahsparks.com
Pesukim - 111
Words - 1,673
Letters - 6,222
Mitzvos - 16
The Parshah mentions the mitzvah of returning that which was stolen.
Rav Zilberstein shlit"a tells of a story of a non-religious Jew who stole a brand new beautiful Sefer Torah from a shul. The one who donated the Torah was devastated.
A few days later, the fellow who stole the Sefer Torah came to return the Torah. "I'm the ganav. And I'm here to fulfill the mitzvah of returning the stolen item." What got int o the man to return it?
The Torah - which was stolen, and sitting in the house of the robbermade such an impact on the man that he decided to turn his life around and become more religious.
Just being in the presence of a Torah, and just being in the vicinity of greatness, makes an impact on a person!
The Lubavitcher Rebbe (see Sichas Shabbos Parshas Vayikra 5741) points out that the small aleph in Vayikra is a contradiction.
An aleph, the first letter, represents leadership and greatness, but it is written small.
How can this be? The Rebbe explains that a person’s greatness and humility should not be two distinct entities.
Varyikra is replete with discussion about Korbanos, animal sacrfices.
Although we do not - YET - have these Korbanos in our day and age, what is the practical message that we can learn from these offerings? What does Korbanos mean to you?
Scan the QR code to view Torah classes from R’ Ori Strum on Torah Anytime!
By Tifere T Schafler
Try going through the normal difficulties and struggles of adolescence – but throw in sudden fame, adult pressures and typical teenage responsibilities, like school, family and friendships. That’s Tamir Goodman’s story of teenagehood.
Goodman, known as “The Jewish Jordan” in the media, is famous for becoming the first Jewish Orthodox NCAA Division I basketball player, and later on the first Orthodox Jewish Israeli professional basketball player when he joined the Maccabi Tel Aviv team in 2002. In just eleventh grade, he ranked 25th best high school player in the country and averaged 35 points per game. But perhaps what he would become most famous for is his refusal to play on Shabbos.
To say that Goodman didn’t have typical teenage years would be an understatement. Goodman became a point guard for his Yeshiva, Talmudical Academy in Baltimore, in eighth grade. He spent summers at local basketball camps and weekends playing with locals in the Baltimore courts, where he recalls early-on being able to predict plays on the court that others couldn’t see coming.
“I remember my father and brothers and I were watching a game on TV, and all of a sudden, I said: ‘Alley-oop.’ Seconds and two passes later, there was a slam dunk. My family was shocked; they kept saying, ‘How did you know that would happen?’”
Later on, Goodman would credit his severe dyslexia for his advanced spatial reasoning abilities and ability to predict plays on the court. But early on, he made himself a promise, one that he shared with his supportive family: he would become the first Orthodox Jewish D1 college player, without ever playing on Shabbos.
Basketball was Goodman’s life and dreams. But one day, when playing outside during recess in his yeshiva, a rabbi whom he had a relationship with thought he should reconsider: “You’re amazing at basketball, it’s true – but what’s the likelihood of it really happening for you? Maybe you should start investing your time in other things, like your learning.”
Goodman was crushed, but thought perhaps the rabbi was right. The following year, he switched to the Pittsburgh Yeshiva, a Chabad yeshiva, for high school, to give up basketball and focus on his learning.
“The first day at yeshiva changed my life trajectory forever,” said Goodman – but not in a way you’d expect. He sat down to start learning with a young rebbe there at the time, who started off by saying, “Everyone in this world has a special mission: it’s our job to take our physical blessings, and create a dwelling place for Hashem in this world through our special blessings.”
At that moment, young Goodman’s internal conflicts were resolved.
Why am I giving up basketball? he thought to himself. Basketball is the special gift, the special talent, Hashem gave me: I’m going to be Hashem’s basketball player and create a dwelling place for Hashem through basketball.
The following year, at age 16, Goodman returned to his previous yeshiva in Baltimore to play on their team, and his talents became more widely seen: he got invited to an invitational basketball camp, where
the best basketball players in America play against one another, with college coaches watching. If you play well, you get an invitation for a Division 1 scholarship – Goodman’s dream.
Rolling in with his cooler of kosher food, kippah, several inches shorter and significantly scrawnier than most of the players there, Goodman was reminded by the people doing registration that it was an invitational camp; you can’t just walk right in.
“I would just take out my invitation and say, ‘Yeah, I know it’s shocking, but I was invited.’”
After several days of going unnoticed by the coaches, and with the camp coming to a close in just a few days, Goodman davened during Maariv one night: “Please Hashem, I want to show people that Jewish people can do this, too, but no one’s watching me. Can You help?”
Fifteen minutes after his tefillah, it was announced that the team that Goodman was playing on that night was scheduled to play in the gym, the only indoor court, out of the 15 other courts in the camp. Miraculously, while they were playing, all coaches and players from the other courts started flooding in; it had started to rain.
“You all better be ready to play well,” his coach told them, “because all eyes are on you tonight.”
The next play changed everything. After catching a rebound over all of the other significantly taller players, Goodman led a fast break to the other end of the court and noticed that his teammate was open at the end of the court 90 feet away. He threw the ball behind his back,
the following day was Shabbos, he’d be unable to play in the All Star game, the game that would seal his opportunities. “Son, do you understand what kind of opportunity you’re giving up here?”
But a few hours later, Goodman drove back to Maryland with his coach, resolved to keep his promise to Hashem.
AGoodman took the photographer to his room, put on his tefillin , grabbed his siddur , and became the first player to be featured in Sports i llustrated wearing tefillin
under all the defenders, to his teammate, who caught it and dunked it. The crowd went wild.
“I heard people saying, ‘did you see what that Jewish kid just did?!’
“We say: Yeshuat Hashem k’heref ayin, Hashem can change everything in a split second. In that second, my life changed forever.”
The coaches began watching Goodman closely, and on Friday morning, he was told he had been offered seven D1 scholarships – and invited to play in the All Star game the following morning.
He thanked the coach for the opportunity, but since
fter the camp, Goodman was on the public radar, and by eleventh grade, Goodman was ranked 25th best high school player in the country. He got a call from University of Maryland, his dream team, telling him they were coming to watch him play, and they ended up offering him a full, 4-year athletic scholarship to play on their team. Maryland pledged to accommodate Goodman’s only condition for acceptance: that he would never play on Shabbos. The news spread rapidly, and Goodman got 700 media requests in just one week – ABC, NBC, even a skit on him by Jerry Seinfeld – and Sports Illustrated, who would end up dubbing him “The Jewish Jordan” in a 4-page spread.
“When the NBA photographer for Sports Illustrated came to my house, he wanted to shoot some pictures of me playing basketball in my backyard. I said, ‘I know this is how you usually photograph basketball players, but I’m not just a basketball player, I’m a Jewish basketball player: this really isn’t about basketball or about me as a player, it’s about something larger. I represent the Jewish people and Israel.”
Goodman took the photographer to his room, put on his tefillin, grabbed his siddur, and became the first player to be featured in Sports Illustrated wearing tefillin
But with sudden fame came a new challenge: managing public criticism at an (already vulnerable) young age. Goodman handled it with two pieces of advice: facing it head on and playing for a higher purpose.
“It was incredibly hard to read in a paper or hear on a newsite the day after a game that I had had a bad game, or a bad pass,” recalled Goodman. One can only imagine how much more difficult it would have been in today’s social media age, where undoubtedly Goodman would have gone “viral.”
“After one bad game, I told my coach that instead of speaking to the media after the game, I just wanted to go straight home…I felt like, they’re just going to write negative things about me, so what’s the point?” But his coach felt otherwise.
“My coach wanted me to face criticism head on, not avoid it. He would say: ‘If you can talk to them after you play well, you’re going to talk to them when you don’t play well. And this is all you’ll say, ‘I know I shot badly today, so I’m going to head to the gym and practice more on getting better. That’s it.’”
Goodman still has the same coach, Harold Katz, now 86, who he credits with “believing in me more than I believed in myself” and being an integral part of not only his career success, but personal development.
Goodman also practiced habits like being selective about listening or reading interviews that were about himself and reminding himself that his validation comes from his relationship with Hashem and his personal goals, not from others.
“Once you have that as your foundation, it’s easier to focus on your calling. It would be hard for me to stay focused and goal-oriented if I’m seeking my validation through ‘likes,’ how many ‘shares’ I get, or whether I get positive media attention or not.”
His father’s message was also his anchor in facing criticism and evaluation early on: play for a higher purpose.
“If your goal and definition of success in basketball, or in anything, is to get a certain score or make a certain amount, then you’ll never really move forward: there’ll always be more to accomplish, and there’s not much to gain from failure,” Goodman shares. “But if you play for a higher purpose, you’re always going to be moving forward, regardless if you fail or succeed – there’s always going to be something you can learn.
“My higher purpose in basketball was always to make a kiddush Hashem and to bring out the reason He put me in this position. So whether I played well or played poorly, whether people wrote positive or negative things, I stuck to these goals, and so I was always moving forward.”
Celebrities, they’re just like us: despite his growing talent and fame, Tamir wasn’t exempt from his typical teenage obligations, like school. Despite much progression in his basketball career, academics were an immense struggle for Goodman and had been
since early elementary school. Despite going to tutors before and after school, which he often self-funded by running basketball clinics, it didn’t seem enough to stay afloat. Finally, he and his parents got clarity at what may be the root cause of Goodman’s learning issues. At age 15, he was diagnosed with severe dyslexia.
“After evaluating me, the doctor reported that I couldn’t even distinguish certain shapes from each other.”
Tamir would later struggle to pass the SATs, which he would need later on in order to get his scholarship. This difficulty didn’t just affect him in the classroom, but on the court, too. He would often have to ask teammates whether their team was winning or losing, since he couldn’t read the scoreboard.
“It’s a beautiful part of our culture that there is so much focus on learning, on sefarim, on academics and general learning, etc. But for someone with learning difficulties, being surrounded by books all day, every day, is a serious pain-point and struggle.”
But something clicked for Tamir after his diagnosis. Tamir began to draw confidence on the court from seeing dyslexia as his superpower.
“Yes, I have a challenge. My brain makes it extremely difficult for me to do certain things. But I felt that that same brain had to overcompensate for those deficits, which resulted in my superpower: being able to have an amazing read of the court.”
“Sometimes, we have images of what a good student should look like, or even what our child should look like, but we don’t know if that’s the same vision Hashem has for them.”
senior year, as the school couldn’t accommodate the thousands showing up to watch his games and the media following him to school and around the community. Simultaneously, Goodman got a call from UMD, stating there was a change of plans and there wouldn’t be a way to accommodate his need to not play on Shabbos.
Soon after, Goodman got a call from a principal at Takoma Academy, a Seventh Day Adventist, primarily African-American school, saying he heard Goodman was looking for a high school that could accommodate his needs and take all of his credits in addition to a high school team that would allow him not to play on Shabbos. Since Seventh Day Adventists don’t play on Shabbos and the school agreed to let him study Torah every day, Goodman thought it to be a good plan.
Takoma’s only condition? That he share with the principal what he learned about the parsha every week.
As he entered Takoma Academy, Goodman added another title to the list of records he’d break: being the first Jewish student at Takoma Academy.
How did a twelfth grade Yeshiva bochur manage? Despite recalling the environment at Takoma as being incredibly friendly and welcoming and developing close friendships that he has until today, it wasn’t easy. Goodman remembers one of the first games with his new team. His coach from yeshiva had come to watch.
“When I saw my coach, I started tearing up, and went to cry on his shoulder. I had just never imagined I would be in this position; I missed my friends and my team, and I never imagined graduating without the friends I’d spent my entire school career with.”
Goodman coped by staying goal-oriented, and creating a focus for himself: “Every day I said, ‘Why did Hashem send me here? What should my goal here be? What does He want from me?’ If you want to get through anything, you need a goal, a focal point, and channel everything around that. You have to see every position you’re in as a mission and ask why you are there.”
Until this day, Goodman is still in touch with the principal from Takoma. “Whenever they hear something about me or about something going on in Israel, he and my friends from there are almost always the first to call.”
Goodman can relate to many frum Jewish students on college campuses nowadays, as he’s found himself an only frum Jew in secular environments countless times.
Later on, when Goodman began coaching, he would find that other dyslexic players had high-level “read and react” abilities as he did, and today, he’s developed specific recommendations to other coaches who coach players who have dyslexia. He finds these players do best when not locked into sets and instead advises to give them the space to come up with creative solutions – just like his legendary pass in the invitational basketball camp.
At the end of eleventh grade, Goodman faced two significant challenges: needing to find a place to finish high school and a place to play at for college. With all of the media rage surrounding Goodman, he was asked to leave his yeshiva for his
“My father’s advice to me in those times is the same advice I would give to others: let your game do the talking. Meaning, let your actions and behavior speak for you, instead of speaking back to antisemitic rhetoric or being worried about people making assumptions about you. It’s true in basketball, in the literal sense of letting your game and skills show people how good you are, but it’s equally true in any other environment: keep a good reputation, be kind, make a good impression, accomplish good things.”
Goodman recalls a particular game where players on the other team were making antisemitic comments to him. He chose not to respond but put his effort into playing his best game.
“Those players came to me after the game, shook
my hand and said: ‘Wow, you never even said anything back to us, you just kept your head held high. That’s very impressive.’ So my lesson would be: whether in sports or in life, let your game, your actions and behavior, do the talking.”
While at Takoma, Goodman was offered a full scholarship to play at Towson University, which stayed true to its commitment in ensuring he would not have to play on Shabbos.
The next phases of Goodman’s story are equally filled with trials and successes. After playing at Towson for some time, a new sports administration was brought in, introducing a new coach that was not accommodating to Goodman and whom he would eventually file an assault claim against. During that tumultuous period, he was made an offer to move to Israel and play for Maccabbi Tel Aviv, a move that led him to meet his wife, Judy, a former basketball player who had also turned down several D1 scholarships to keep Shabbos. Goodman would go on to play for several other teams like Giv’at Shmuel, Maccabi Shoham, and Maryland Nighthawks, and would eventually sustain a series of medical injuries that would prevent him from returning to the court professionally, the final injury being in 2008.
But Goodman’s career is far from over. Today, Goodman runs all of his successive ventures in life – like his entrepreneurial ventures Aviv Basketball Net & Signage System and Sports Strings tzitzit; authoring two books; his coaching and consulting business; speaking engagements; and his summer sports camp for children and adolescents – with the lessons he himself learned as a teenager on how to succeed: build grit, set goals, find meaning, and play for a higher purpose.
“There is one criteria to participate in our baseball camp: you have to want to get better. We will take anyone of any basketball ability, as long as they are dedicated to improving,” Goodman shares.
How does Goodman run a camp with a wide variety of players? By placing the focus on individual, instead of collective or standardized, goals for each player, and rewarding parts of character growth.
“We define success for each kid based on their individual goal. So if a kid comes late every day, but today he comes on time or early, we reward that. If a kid broke their ankle and couldn’t play, but still came to practice to watch and try to improve that way, we reward that, too. We really play it up; we really reinforce the journey more than the goal.”
Players who are working towards their individual goals will receive “transcendence towels” or other swag. Goodman believes this is how kids build grit and resilience, which is what will help them succeed long term.
“We essentially build into our system learning how to not quit and to persevere, because your goals are individualized and you are so rewarded and praised for things like showing up and becoming a better version of yourself.”
Goodman’s camp and school environments are similar in that way: a wide variety of students with vari-
ous abilities, strengths and weaknesses, in one environment.
“Our challenge as adults is to create, as much as possible, individual goals standards for each kid and find ways to input into our system rewarding personal and character growth, instead of just rewarding grades and scores.”
Goodman feels strongly about this idea, especially as a student that struggled immensely with dyslexia.
“We have to redefine and reward what really matters and what creates success and resilience in the long-term. Sometimes, we have images of what a good student should look like, or even what our child should look like, but we don’t know if that’s the same vision Hashem has for them.”
Teaching kids and adolescents how to push past obstacles and re-define themselves was the goal be -
“My father’s advice to me in those times is the same advice I would give to others: let your game do the talking.”
school as he did: start the day with something you’re good at and reminds you who you are.
“Every day before I went to school, I played basketball, because it reminded me there’s something larger here, and there are other things that I’m good at,” he advises.
Despite learning being a difficulty, Goodman learned ways over time to make it approachable. Goodman says that when it comes to learning, it helps to be very goal-oriented: setting small goals for small increments of time.
“I would say, OK, my personal goal for today is to focus on these six lines and learn them in depth,” he shares. “If I can’t do more than that today, at least I reached my goal.”
hind his children’s book, published in January 2025, that speaks about his story of struggling with dyslexia, basketball, and commitment to Judaism.
“I was recently speaking at the Ross School of Business on entrepreneurship, and I was thinking, I barely would have even gotten into this school. I barely passed the SATS. Had I given into the narrative that I was ‘bad at school’ or not smart, I wouldn’t be the person that they were inviting to speak. I wouldn’t be someone with dyslexia who authored two books.
“I wrote this children’s book, because I wanted to show kids whatever struggles you have, don’t let it define you: lean into the grit and resilience skills to get yourself where you want to go.”
Goodman has advice for kids who struggled in
Goodman also stayed connected to religious growth through chessed, which he emphasizes as key for all students but especially for those struggling in school. Being involved in chessed around the community reminds kids that they have what to contribute, no matter what they are struggling with at the moment.
“It’s saying, no matter what’s difficult for you right now, you can fill a need, and a role, in a larger picture.”
And to kids who have big goals, sports or otherwise, Goodman recommends building your day with being as goal-oriented as possible, which means having as scheduled of a day as possible.
“This way you control your day, instead of your day controlling you.”
Tamir can be reached at tamir@tamirgoodman.com.
By Rivka Kramer, PMHNP-BC
Dementia is one of the most daunting and heart-wrenching diagnoses for families today. With Alzheimer’s disease being the most common form, those affected by dementia face a gradual decline in cognitive function that touches every part of life, from memory loss to emotional shifts. While there is no known cure for dementia, and conventional medicine primarily focuses on managing symptoms, what if there was a better way? What if an approach could not only slow the disease’s progression but also improve the overall quality of life for both the person diagnosed and their caregivers?
This is where an integrative approach to dementia comes in – a treatment path that merges traditional medical care with complementary therapies such as nutrition, exercise, music, and even emerging treatments like red light therapy. An integrative approach seeks to address dementia holistically – treating not just the brain, but the body, emotions, and social interactions, fostering overall well-being. By looking beyond medications, this approach creates an environment in which patients experience better outcomes, not only cognitively but also emotionally and physically.
Let’s explore the story of Yaakov, a 68-year-old former businessman and avid golfer, who had always been known for his sharp memory and sense of humor. But as his symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease began to appear – memory lapses, disorientation, and difficulty recalling familiar names – his world began to shrink. Yaakov felt isolated, and his wife, Leah, was left feeling helpless. While his doctor prescribed medications, Leah felt there had to be more they could do.
Determined to improve Yaakov’s quality of life, Leah researched other potential treatments. This led them to an integrative approach – one that blends traditional medical treatments with lifestyle changes
and complementary therapies. They introduced a series of practices to improve James’s physical, emotional, and cognitive health, including changes in diet, physical exercise, music therapy, and even red light therapy. While Yaakov’s condition didn’t reverse, his quality of life and well-being significantly improved. This holistic approach opened doors to new ways of living with dementia.
An integrative approach to treating dementia isn’t just about managing symptoms; it’s about improving overall well-being. It recognizes that dementia is not just a disease of the brain, but one that affects every part of a person’s life. It sees the patient as a whole, addressing not just their cognitive decline but their physical health, emotional stability, and social interactions. This approach combines traditional medical treatments with complementary therapies and emphasizes lifestyle changes, mindfulness, and social engagement.
The key components of an integrative approach to dementia treatment include:
• Conventional treatments: Medications and cognitive therapies to manage symptoms and slow progression.
• Complementary therapies: Nutrition, physical exercise, music, red light therapy, and other mind-body practices.
• Social engagement: Encouraging connection with loved ones and community to avoid isolation.
• Caregiver support : Ensuring caregivers are equipped with the emotional and practical tools needed for the journey.
By blending conventional and complementary approaches, an integrative strategy fosters a comprehensive treatment plan, tackling dementia from every angle.
Conventional Treatments: The Starting Point
When Yaakov was first diagnosed, his doctor prescribed cholinesterase inhibitors like Donepezil, designed to help manage memory and thinking problems by increasing the amount of acetylcholine in the brain. Yaakov was also given Memantine, which regulates the glutamate neurotransmitter. These medications helped manage the progression of his symptoms, providing some relief, but Leah felt there was more they could do.
In addition to medication, Yaakov was introduced to Cognitive Stimulation Therapy (CST). CST involves engaging the mind
with structured activities such as games, puzzles, and discussions that stimulate thinking, help preserve memory, and improve cognitive function. While CST had benefits, Leah soon realized it wasn’t enough to address Yaakov’s emotional and physical needs.
At this point, Leah decided to explore other ways to supplement conventional treatment. This marked the beginning of their journey toward a more comprehensive, integrative treatment plan.
Yaakov had always been a hearty eater, enjoying comfort foods like mashed potatoes, pasta, and sweets. But after his diagnosis, Leah learned that proper nutrition plays a crucial role in brain health. She consulted with a nutritionist, who recommended a diet rich in omega-3 fatty acids, antioxidants, and healthy fats to support James’s cognitive health.
Yaakov’s new diet included oily fish like salmon, mackerel, and sardines, which are high in omega-3 fatty acids that support brain function. He also began eating more nuts, leafy greens, and whole grains, all of which provide essential nutrients and reduce inflammation. To make things even more beneficial, Leah added turmeric to his meals, recognizing its anti-inflammatory properties and potential to reduce brain plaque buildup, which is a hallmark of Alzheimer’s.
After a few weeks of dietary changes, Yaakov appeared more energetic and engaged in daily activities. While the dietary shift didn’t cure his dementia, it certainly helped slow the progression and enhanced his overall mood. The meals became an opportunity for Yaakov and Leah to bond, making mealtime a positive experience rather than a stressful one.
2. Physical Exercise: Moving the Body to Stimulate the Mind
Exercise is another cornerstone of the
integrative approach to dementia care. Research shows that regular physical activity promotes brain plasticity, reduces cognitive decline, and enhances mood. Despite his initial reluctance, Yaakov began walking daily around the neighborhood with Leah. What began as a short, 10-minute walk eventually evolved into a 30-minute ritual. The walks allowed Yaakov to engage in gentle physical activity, which helped improve circulation, mobility, and mental clarity.
3. Mind-Body Practices: Fostering Calm and Connection
Yaakov’s anxiety and agitation were often exacerbated by his memory loss, and this emotional turmoil took a toll on both him and Leah. In search of calming practices, Leah began incorporating mindfulness and gentle yoga into their routine. These exercises focused on slow movements, breathing, and staying present in the moment – something Yaakov found immensely calming.
Each morning, Leah would guide Yaakov through simple yoga poses. Though Yaakov struggled to remember all the movements, the practice allowed him to center himself, relax, and experience a
4. The Power of Music
Music therapy is one of the most effective tools in dementia care. Yaakov had always been a music lover – he played the guitar, sang in the shower, and could name every song that played on the radio. But as dementia progressed, he began to lose touch with his musical interests. Leah, however, realized the potential of music to reconnect him to his past.
5. Red Light Therapy: A Cutting-Edge Tool in Dementia Care
One of the most recent additions to the integrative approach was red light therapy. Red light therapy, also known as low-level laser therapy (LLLT) or photobiomodulation, involves using low-wavelength red or near-infrared light to stimulate cells. It has shown promise in improving mitochondrial function, reducing inflammation, and enhancing brain health. In particular, studies suggest that it may help slow cognitive decline in those with dementia by stimulating brain cells and encouraging neuroplasticity.
Leah introduced red light therapy into Yaakov’s daily routine, using a red light panel for 10-20 minutes each day.
more engaged and alert, and his energy levels improved. His mood stabilized, and his cognitive abilities showed modest improvements in areas such as memory recall and problem-solving.
While more research is needed to confirm its long-term efficacy, early findings suggest that red light therapy could be a powerful addition to the integrative approach to dementia care. For Leah and Yaakov, it was a new way to support brain health that complemented the other therapies they were using.
Isolation is a significant challenge for those with dementia. Yaakov had always been a social person, but as his condition progressed, he found it difficult to engage with others. To prevent further withdrawal, Leah encouraged regular visits from friends and family. She organized small gatherings, where Yaakov could reconnect with old friends and participate in familiar activities like playing cards or reminiscing about past travels.
By combining conventional treatments
like medications and cognitive therapy with complementary therapies such as nutrition, exercise, music, and red light therapy, Leah and Yaakov found a path that enhanced their lives despite the challenges of dementia.
While there is no cure for dementia yet, this holistic approach has proven to be an effective way to manage symptoms, slow the disease’s progression, and improve the quality of life for both the person with dementia and their caregivers. For Leah, the integrative approach offered empowerment, connection, and hope – vital tools for navigating this difficult journey.
Dementia is a challenging condition, but as Yaakov’s story demonstrates, there is a way to live well with it. An integrative approach addresses the whole person – physical, mental, and emotional – and provides families with the tools they need to create a meaningful, fulfilling life.
Rivka Kramer is a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. She has a psychiatric private practice based in Cedarhurst, NY. She serves as a member of the board of JANPPA, the Jewish American Nurse Practitioner Psychiatric Association. She can be reached at 516-945-9443.
With yom tov fast approaching, it’s time to think about getting your wife something nice. Such as a carton of eggs.
Well, it’s either something nice or eggs. You can’t have both. You’re going to make me decide between eggs and matzah?
So we need to figure out what we’re going to do. Last Pesach, according to my notes, my family ate 20 dozen eggs. In one week. Don’t tell my doctor.
And I don’t know about you, but I haven’t heard any of our so-called pro-Jewish politicians address this. What are we going to do about Pesach?
Wait. What are the non-Jews going to do about their egg holiday? Don’t they hide eggs?
Though to be honest, their holiday is easy, because they could just not hide as many eggs as they say they did. Also, I think they’re yotzei with plastic eggs. Whereas I don’t think we can put one of those on the Seder plate with a little prize inside. (“Surprise! It’s your afikoman gift! It’s a sticky hand!” “Great! Now I can grab matzah from across the table!”)
Also, I see no reason they can’t paint potatoes. Except that then we’ll have a potato shortage, C”V.
So we need some ideas. Of course, the way my articles work, knowing my luck, by the time this article runs, the egg prices will already be coming down. But I mean everything else is pretty expensive too, so some egg-stretching tips might still come in handy.
Obviously, the first idea that comes to anyone’s mind is to get our own chickens.
I have chickens, for example. And the main thing you have to worry about with your own chickens, as far as chicken flu, is people asking you, “Aren’t you worried about chicken flu?”
They don’t just manifest chicken flu. They have to catch it from someone.
My chickens only see each other. I’m not bringing them to a chicken kindergarten every day to interact with other chickens and bring home diseases.
Though I don’t think I understand this whole situation in the first place. The chickens have flu. Great. So we kill them? Why don’t we have them quarantine? Wear masks? Wipe down their groceries? Why are we killing them so they don’t die on their own? Why not let all of them catch this flu and then build herd immunity? The ones that survive can be immune to it!
How is this not fixable? Why don’t we just try some of the classic flu remedies? Tylenol, decongestant, plenty of fluids, maybe some chicken soup…. Okay, maybe not that. Is that why we can’t fix bird flu? Because we can’t give them chicken soup? How are they getting the flu at all? They’re made of chicken soup! What if we just fed them water and some carrots and left them out in the sun?
So that’s what I do.
So I would definitely say to get chickens. Except that most places that sell chickens only sell babies, so you had to have done this about six months ago. No one’s selling you an adult chicken. Why would they? They can make way more on eggs. If you want adults, you’d be better off hunting down pigeons.
Though that’s an idea! How about you do a crazy amount of shiluach hakan over the next few weeks? I don’t know when you might have time to happen across that many nests, but maybe that can be your project on Chol Hamoed.
Another idea is that maybe we can stretch our eggs, like it’s the 1930s. Like who says we should just fluff up our egg whites for cakes? Why not do it before we make omelets? Or potato kugel?
(“Boy, this is the fluffiest yapchick I’ve ever had!”)
Or maybe we can stretch our eggs with other ingredients. We sometimes use eggs to stretch other foods, like chopped liver, but there’s no reason it can’t worth both ways. Don’t have enough eggs? Add liver!
Or we can just try leaving the eggs out of some recipes. Like what do vegans do on Pesach? We should find out. This could be why Hashem made vegans. And has them constantly advertising who they are. No one is secretly a vegan. So let’s ask them, if we’re still talking to them.
By Mordechai Schmutter
So I looked it up. And it turns out there are numerous options. Though most of the options I saw are either kitniyos or milchig.
I’m not sure how the vegans are eating the milchig alternatives either.
But for example, one alternative I found was to used mashed banana. Like if you’re making a Pesach banana cake, you use bananas in place of eggs, and then some more bananas for bananas! But I’m not sure your potato kugel is going to be amazing. Or your chicken cutlets.
“Would you like some chopped bananas and onions?”
“No, I already fell for that once, with the avocado salad!”
Also, if you buy 20 dozen bananas before Pesach, you’re going to end up being the people from the math problems. I also don’t think you need to eat that much banana on a week that you’re also eating matzah.
Also apparently you can replace an egg with 2 tablespoons of potato starch and 3 tablespoons of water. So like if you’re making Pesach lukshen, which is eggs and potato starch, instead you can just use potato starch and potato starch!
(“Why is the soup so thick?”)
But these substitutions don’t work for everything. For example, we can’t just put some kind of egg substitute mush on the Seder plate. Even if we put it inside a plastic egg.
“This is to remember the chagigah!”
“Was the chagigah slimy?”
But maybe we can buy one real egg -- a really really nice one -- and put it on the Seder plate. You go to the store, inspect it like you would an esrog... And then Rebbes can have a big rebbishe egg, like from a turkey or a goose or something... And a giant zroa. Though the stores would then charge hundreds of dollars for a Seder plate egg, and then we’re back to where we started.
Mordechai Schmutter is a freelance writer and a humor columnist for Hamodia and other magazines. He has also published eight books and does stand-up comedy. You can contact him at MSchmutter@gmail.com.
Sarah Leah set the Seder just right, With shining plates and linens white. Merav made crafts with flair and grace, Matza mosaics all over the place!
Shira packed snacks for the family trip, While Meira mapped out each Chol Hamoed skip. Zehava baked cake with a sweet lemon glaze, Shuie and Yitsy hid the Afikoman in the cleverest ways!
Avrami told jokes that made us all grin, (He says that alone deserves a win!) Now it’s your turn — don’t delay, Send us your Pesach fun today!
You Could Win a $50 Amazon Gift Card!
Submit a photo of your Pesach: your Seder table, a project, a Chol Hamoed trip, or anything that shows off your Yom Tov spirit!
By Rabbi Hillel Shaps Director, Greater Washington Community Kollel
Will we still be telling the story of yetzias mitzrayim (the exodus from Egypt) when Moshiach comes?
Rabbi Dovid Cohen, Rosh Yeshiva of the Chevron Yeshiva, infers from the Rambam that we will!
The Mishna in Brachos (12b), quoted towards the beginning of Maggid, cites a dispute regarding the mitzvah to remember yetzias mitzrayim every day of the year. In Parshas Re’eh (16:3) the Torah states, “in order that you should remember the day you left Egypt, all the days of your life.” Ben Zoma is of the opinion that the extra word “all” comes to teach us that this daily obligation to recall the exodus applies not only every day, but also every night. The Chachamim, however, hold that the word “all” is there to teach us that the obligation will endure even in the days of Moshiach.
The Rambam (Hil. Krias Shema 1:3) codifies the halacha in accordance
day and every night. Surprisingly, however, when the Rambam lists the 613 mitzvos in his Sefer Hamitzvos, nowhere does he mention this daily obligation. Clearly it is a mitzvah, so why is it omitted from the list? Rav Chaim Brisker explains that one of the Rambam’s stated rules in order to be included on the list of 613 mitzvos is that it must be applicable both in our time and in the days of Moshiach. Since Ben Zoma uses the word “all” to teach that this mitzvah is applicable even at night, he has no source that it is applicable in the days of Moshiach (and we see from the Chachamim that a source is needed), therefore the Rambam does not include the daily obligation to remember the exodus in his list of 613 mitzvos.
What does make the Rambam’s list, on the other hand, is the mitzvah of sipur yetzias mitrayim, the unique mitzvah of the seder night to tell over the story of the exodus at length. This would imply that this mitzvah will continue to be practiced even in
obligation to remember yetzias mitzrayim will no longer be applicable in the days of Moshiach, but the special mitzvah of the seder night will. Why would there be a difference?
With regards to our daily obligation, Ben Zoma actually brings a clear source for why the obligation won’t apply in the days of Moshiach. The prophet Yirmiyahu (23:7-8) states, “behold days are coming, says Hashem, when they shall no longer say, ‘As Hashem lives, Who brought up the children of Israel from the land of Egypt,’ but, ‘As Hashem lives, Who brought up and Who brought the seed of the house of Israel from the northland and from all the lands where I have driven them…’” Rav Dovid Cohen explains that when we mention yitzias mitzrayim daily, the purpose is to recall the tremendous miracles that occurred – in order to strengthen our belief in Hashem. Since the miracles that will occur at the time of Moshiach will be even greater, it will be even more effective to mention those miracles instead.
Sipur yetzias mitrayim at the seder, however, has an additional component to it. We recall not just the great miracles that occurred, but also how the Jewish people became a nation. The Midrash compares our time in Egypt to a fetus in utero and compares our hasty departure to our birth. The Jewish nation was only born once. No matter how great the miracles at the time of Moshiach will be, we will still have to celebrate and give thanks to Hashem for forming us into the people who we are and for choosing us as His people. That’s why we will continue to tell this story on the seder night even in the days of Moshiach.
The Sfas Emes writes that when we pick up the Marror at the seder and declare that we are eating it to commemorate how the Egyptians “embittered the lives of our ancestors” we are actually praising Hashem. We are recognizing that the suffering we endured was necessary to forge us into a nation that is humble before Hashem, that is united, and that has the tenacity to overcome extended periods of exile. Our time in Egypt is compared to a kur habarzel (Devarim 4:20) – an iron forge which has the capacity to purify, fuse, and harden the materials that pass through it. This gestation period was what we needed to develop into the people we needed to become and as a result of these challenges, our nation was born.
Perhaps we can use this concept to introduce a novel interpretation for the mitzvah of karpas. Following the Splitting of the Sea, the Jewish people’s first stop is a place called Mara. They arrive thirsty, yet all they can find is bitter water. Moshe is instructed to take a piece of wood and cast it into the waters and the waters turn sweet. The similarity to Karpas is striking. We have salty bitter water and we too are told to take a plant and dip it in. As we begin our seder, we remind ourselves that although we will be recounting the bitter times, remember the waters of Mara. Within the bitterness, there is sweetness. The suffering was only for our betterment – to forge us into the Nation of Hashem. We should, therefore, not only thank Hashem for taking us out Egypt, but also for putting us in. We shouldn’t just say the words avadim hayeenu – we were slaves but rather we should sing them. And we aren’t to only thank Hashem nowadays for our experience in Egypt, but even in the days of Moshiach!
By Gedaliah Borvick
Israel’s population is expected to double in the coming decades, yet the country is already facing a severe housing shortage. To meet the current demand alone, Israel would need to deliver the keys to 200,000 apartments. This raises a pressing question: where can tiny Israel, which is no larger than the state of New Jersey, find enough land for development?
One important solution is to increase residential and business centers, primarily in the south. Several organizations are actively working on this, and progress is being made. But for those who want to live in Israel’s major population centers, the most viable solution is Pinuy Binuy – a large-scale urban renewal program that replaces outdated, low-density buildings with modern high-rise apartments.
Many of Israel’s older neighborhoods are filled with low-rise buildings spread across large plots of land. These buildings, built in the early decades of the state, lack basic amenities such as elevators and
parking. Worse, they were built according to outdated safety standards and are not earthquake-resistant. With land scarce and demand soaring, urban planners and developers have turned to Pinuy Binuy as a smart way to make better use of space while improving housing quality.
Pinuy Binuy involves evacuating ( pinuy) and demolishing old buildings, then rebuilding (binuy) modern, high-density residential towers in their place. It upgrades aging communal infrastructure while dramatically increasing the number of apartments. Owners of the original apartments are typically offered temporary housing during construction and receive new larger apartments in the redeveloped project – at no additional cost.
Despite its clear advantages, Pinuy Binuy is a long and complex process, facing significant bureaucratic and logistical hurdles. Israeli law requires twothirds of apartment owners to agree to the project, which takes time to achieve. Then there’s the municipal bureaucracy – zoning approvals, environmental
impact studies, and infrastructure adjustments take years to approve. By the time a project receives the necessary approvals, buildings are vacated, and construction is completed, the entire process can take over a decade.
A critical factor is whether the surrounding infrastructure can support a growing population. Higher-density housing brings increased pressure on roads, schools, and public services, making careful urban planning essential. A prime example of this approach is the redevelopment of Talpiot, adjacent to Baka and Arnona. The Jerusalem municipality has approved a master plan to transform the area into a dynamic urban hub, adding thousands of new residential units along with office, retail, cultural, and educational spaces. A key element of this transformation is the expansion of Jerusalem’s light rail system, which will feature four new lines running through Talpiot, complemented by improved roadways to enhance connectivity within the city and beyond.
As Israel’s population continues to grow, so will the pressure to add housing in urban centers. The success of Pinuy Binuy depends on cutting bureaucratic red tape, streamlining approvals, and ensuring that infrastructure development keeps pace with new construction.
In a country where land is one of its most valuable resources, the question is not whether Israel should build upwards but how to do it most effectively. Pinuy Binuy presents a viable path forward, but its long-term success relies on close collaboration between government agencies, developers, and the public. If executed properly, it can meet Israel’s housing needs while fostering well-planned, livable communities for future generations.
Gedaliah Borvick is the founder of My Israel Home (www.myisraelhome.com), a real estate agency focused on helping people from abroad buy and sell homes in Israel. To sign up for his monthly market updates, contact him at gborvick@gmail.com.
RBy Rabbi Shraga Freedman
abbi Yitzchok Zilberstein (renowned Rav and Poseik in Bnei Brak) was in a large building in a non-religious city in Eretz Yisrael, accompanied by his two daughters. As they stepped into a crowded elevator, a secular woman suddenly turned to them with clear bitterness.
“Who do you think you are,
Without responding to her hostility, Rav Zilberstein simply pointed to a picture hanging inside the elevator—a photo of one of the hostages. “I am davening for her,” he said softly.
The woman remained unfazed. “What do you care?” she scoffed. “You don’t know them! You have no connection to them!”
in her eyes, and within moments, she was sobbing.
“This hostage,” she choked out, pointing at the photo, “she lives next door to me.”
The elevator reached its destination, and the doors slid open. But instead of stepping out, the woman pressed the button to close the doors, longing for just one more moment with the Rav.
Deeply moved, she turned to him and said, “Kavod HaRav, please teach
Let’s look beyond conflicts and external barriers and continue interacting with others through the pure middos of Hashem. The results will speak for themselves—breaking down walls, touching hearts, and drawing people closer to Him.
Rabbi Shraga Freedman is the author of Sefer Mekadshei Shemecha, Living Kiddush Hashem, and A Life Worth Living.
Email LivingKiddushHashem@ gmail.com for a free sefer. Visit LivingKiddushHashem.org for more
Mendel Wolowik (Baltimore) & Goldie Davidsohn (Crown Heights)
Yekusiel Lando (Baltimore) & Necham Schrek (Hollywood, FL)
Binyamin Steinberg & Rochie Tenenbaum
Meir Soskil (Baltimore) & Brianna Loshin (Silver Spring)
Want to see your simcha here? Email mazeltov@baltimorejewishhome.com or text 443-675-6507 to submit your simcha!
Mordechai & Ruthie (Stal) Jhudovitz on the birth of a son
Rabbi Shlomo & Rebetzin Menucha Weiss on the birth of a daughter
Mr. & Mrs. Dovid Kramer on the birth of a daughter
Mr. & Mrs. Ari Hettleman on the birth of a daughter
Reuven & Aviva (Schwartz) Tyler on the birth of a daughter
Want to see your simcha here? Email mazeltov@baltimorejewishhome.com or text 443-675-6507 to submit your simcha!
1. According to Wallethub.com, what are the odds of picking a perfect bracket?
a. 1 in 43.5 billion
b. 1 in 9 trillion
c. 1 in 321.5 trillion
d. 1 in 9.2 quintillion
2. In 1940, Indiana Hoosiers head coach Emmett “Branch” McCracken was the youngest head coach to win the NCAA championship. How old was he at the time?
a. 31
b. 36
c. 41
d. 43
3. Which seeded team never won the NCAA championship?
a. 3 seed
b. 4 seed
c. 5 seed
d. 8 seed
4. How many teams competed in the first NCAA tournament in 1939?
a. 8
b. 12
c. 14
d. 18
5. In 1985, Villanova beat Georgetown 66-64 in the NCAA championship game. Who was the starting center on
Georgetown?
a. David Robinson
b. Patrick Ewing
c. Hakeem Olajuwon
d. Shaq
6. Which school’s 1991 team was known as the “Fab Five”?
a. Michigan College
b. College of Michigan
c. University of Michigan
d. UCLA
7. With the Tar Heels trailing by one in the 1982 national championship game, this player knocked down a jumper from the left wing with 17 seconds left to give his team the victory:
a. Michael Jordan
b. Isiah Thomas
c. Reggie Miller
d. Mark Jackson
Answer:
1) D-You have greater odds of winning the lotto, getting struck by lightning,
Each of the these are actual school mascots, except for one. Can you spot the fraud?
and having a boa constrictor emerge through the pipes in your toilet all on the same 2) A 3) C
4) A 5) B 6) C
7) A
Scorecard:
6-7 correct: You really know your NCAA basketball. You are the annoying dude who studies for a month before filling out his brackets. “Well, uh, I’m considering putting Villanova in the Final Four. What do you think?” “What do I think? Get a life! That’s what I think!”
3-5 correct: You will get to the Sweet Sixteen, but you won’t be cutting down any nets this year.
0-2 correct: No chance of you cutting the net; maybe start by lowering the basket.
The Fighting Okra — Delta State University
The Banana Slugs — UC Santa Cruz
The Geoducks — Evergreen State College
The Stormy Petrels — Oglethorpe University
The Battling Bishops — Ohio Wesleyan University
The Fighting Camels — Campbell University
The Mastodons — Purdue Fort Wayne
The Purple Cows — Williams College
The Boll Weevils — University of Arkansas at Monticello
The Spiders — University of Richmond
The Screaming Turnips — Idaho Valley College
Answer: The Screaming Turnips — Idaho Valley College
“The great thing about March Madness is the unpredictability. Except for me — I predict my bracket will be terrible.” - Jay Bilas
“There are two kinds of people in March: those who admit their bracket is busted and liars.”- Seth Davis
“March Madness is when the underdogs have their day, and America eats it up like a deep-fried Oreo.”
- Dick Vitale
“I can’t wait for the moment when a 14-seed knocks off a 3-seed and some poor accountant has to explain to his boss why he bet the company lunch fund on the favorite.”- Greg Gumbel
“March Madness is the only time of year you’ll hear people say things like, ‘Of course Norfolk State will beat Missouri. It’s obvious.’”- Bill Raftery
“The beauty of March Madness is watching people who don’t know a thing about basketball destroy people who watch it all year in the office pool.”
- Jimmy Fallon
“March Madness brings people together — mostly to complain about their brackets.”- Andy Katz
“Selection Sunday is like opening a mystery gift. Sometimes you get a PlayStation; sometimes you get socks.”- Ernie Johnson
“I asked my neighbor how he picked his bracket. He said, ‘I went with schools that sounded like pasta.’ He’s in first place.”- Jay Bilas
“March Madness combines the two best things about America: gambling and college.”- Craig Ferguson
“March Madness is the only time it’s socially acceptable to have a mental breakdown over teenagers you’ve never met.”- Jon Stewart
“I love March Madness. It’s like a family reunion, if your family was composed of unpaid athletes, confused mascots, and degenerate gamblers.”
- Jimmy Kimmel
“March Madness is like throwing a handful of darts at a dartboard... blindfolded... during an earthquake.”
- Jay Bilas
“This tournament makes heroes out of guys you’ve never heard of and villains out of guys you’ll never forget.” - Dick Vitale
After the NCAA season, the Wildcats, the Tar Heels and Syracuse are in the first three positions. The captains are Michael, Martin and Paige. Here is what you know:
- Syracuse won as many games as the Wildcats and Tar Heels combined.
- Paige is not the captain of the Syracuse or Wildcats.
- Michael’s team won twelve games.
- The Wildcats won two more games than the Tar Heels.
- Michael is not the captain of the Wildcats. Who is the captain of which team? How many games did each team win?
Michael - 12 - Syracuse
Martin - 7 - Wildcats
Paige - 5 - Tar Heels
Answer:
It’s a super big deal. The fact that I’m here in person, I’m not phoning it in. I’m here in person.
– Elon Musk at a rally in Wisconsin last weekend
It was inevitable that at least a few Soros operatives would be in the audience. Say hi to George for me!
- ibid., when he was interrupted by a few demonstrators in the audience
There were quite a few death threats, I have to tell you. I was like, my security team said, “Well, it’s actually gone down from yesterday to today. It went down from 18,000 to 17,000.” So I’m like, well, maybe it’s getting better. But you can see how crazy some of these people are.
- ibid.
Do you trust your mother every night to fix your Hot Pockets and make sure your Game Boy is turned on?
- Rep. Tim Burchett (R-TN) responding to a liberal young man in Washington, D.C., who stuck a camera in his face and asked if he trusts Trump’s national security team to keep our war plans top secret
[Putin] will die soon. That’s a fact. And it will come to an end.
– Ukrainian Pres. Volodymyr Zelensky in a recent interview in Germany
I said to Gov. Morrisey the first time I saw him, I said, “You look like you ate Gov. Morrisey.”
- Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. roasting West Virginia Gov. Patrick Morrisey about his weight at a joint event last week
I’m going to put him on a really rigorous regime. We’re going to put him on a carnivore diet.
- ibid.
Raise your hand if you want Gov. Morrisey to do a public weigh-in once a month.
- ibid.
My first thought was, we just got to pivot…I was like, “OK, let’s make the best of it.” We planned, we trained that we’d be there for some part of a time, so we were ready to just jump into it and take on the tasks that were given to us.
- U.S. astronaut Suni Williams, in her first interview since returning to Earth, talking about what went through her mind when she was told that instead of the planned one week visit to the space station, she would have to be there for nine months
I’d like to see the computers aligned up to 120 or whatever.
- Cretora Biggerstaff, 106, talking to a Houston TV station about how the airport security always gives her problems when she flies because their computers don’t recognize any age over 100
People will say to me, “How do you feel?” I say, “How should I feel? I feel OK. I don’t feel 106.”
- ibid.
You guys continue to ask the president this question about a third term and then he answers honestly and candidly with a smile and then everybody here melts down about his answer.
- White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt responding to reporters asking whether Pres. Trump plans on running for a third term
Any comment on this, Marco Rubio? How about you, JD Vance? Elon Musk? You just admitted to accidentally sending an innocent father from Maryland to a torture dungeon in El Salvador. And you refuse to do anything about it.
- Tweet by former Obama speechwriter Jon Favreau after The Atlantic ran an article claiming that the Trump administration sent a “peaceful Maryland father” to El Salvador’s infamous mega-prison
My comment is that according to the court document you apparently didn’t read, he was a convicted MS-13 gang member with no legal right to be here. My further comment is that it’s gross to get fired up about gang members getting deported while ignoring citizens they victimize.
- Vice President JD Vance in response
I do not believe we are politically biased. No, we are a nonpartisan organization.
-NPR CEO Katherine Maher responding to Rep. Jim Jordan (R-OH) pointing out that there are 87 registered Democrats in editorial positions at NPR and 0 Republicans
There was literally a 10-question survey that you could do with SurveyMonkey for $10,000 that the government was charged almost a billion dollars for.
- Elon Musk when asked by Bret Baier on Fox about the most outrageous wasteful spending that DOGE found to date
You think that Jeffrey Goldberg got added to a high-level national security conversation by chance? Maybe you thought Covid was from the wet market and not from the lab that was right there and contained Covid-like viruses.
- Pollster and former Bill Clinton advisor Mark Penn
The chance that this was done by an operative looking to embarrass the administration is about 90 percent. The chance someone added him because they were looking for another Jeffrey is about 10 percent.
- ibid.
This was a security breach but most likely one by a partisan trying to undermine the administration than by the participants on the chain. I’m not a conspiracy theorist, I just play the odds, and the odds it was an innocent mistake are low and deliberate act are high. Of course, though, I’m waiting for the final answer.
- ibid.
Do you think they starved you, or they just didn’t have food?
- CBS’s Lesley Stahl to released hostage Keith Sigal after he told her that Hamas beat and starved him
We came to dinner, me, Bill, Dana White, and it could not have been better. Everyone was so surprised. It was so pleasant. The most shocking thing to me was Bill is obviously a big liberal and hard on the president. He’s donated a lot of money to other politicians, Biden, Clinton, Obama, he had never been to the White House.
- Kid Rock, who facilitated a dinner between Pres. Trump and HBO’s Bill Maher (who is liberal but very pro-Israel and increasingly critical of the radical left), reporting on what happened on Fox Newes
The president was gracious. Took us up to the private residence. We saw the Gettysburg Address in the Lincoln bedroom. I was like, you’ve never been here, Bill? I was like, how about this? President Trump extending the olive branch — and we talked about things we had in common. Ending wokeness, securing the border. The president was asking him what he thought about policy going on with Iran and Israel and things. It blew my mind. I was very proud.
- ibid.
Moderated by Jennifer Mann, LCSW of The Navidaters
We read your article every week and always find it fascinating. However, we have a question this week and would love your input.
We’re seniors in high school, and we have a friend, Aryeh. Aryeh has been a close friend of ours since ninth grade. Aryeh is an incredible and amazing friend, and everyone loves to be around him. However, a couple of months ago, he started dating this girl, Sasha. Sasha is awesome, and Aryeh loves hanging out with her.
However, my friends and I have discussed it, and we have a few doubts regarding their relationship.
First of all, with the year winding down, we’re getting ready for our year(s) in Israel. My friends and I are worried Aryeh and Sasha will stunt their growth in Israel because of their relationship. They may be too involved with each other, causing them to miss shiur and hang out. And even if they don’t ditch shiur, do you not think all the kedusha they received will go to waste?
Second, our rabbeim have emphasized to us many times over that talking to girls is “ye’harog v’al yaavor.” Is that not also a major problem that should apply here?
Third, while Aryeh has become a better person since he and Sasha became official, he’s become worse regarding certain aspects. For example, Aryeh’s become a bit more defensive and serious when it comes to joking matters. It’s like he can’t chill about anything anymore. Maybe she’s a bad influence on him? And that can very well translate over to next year.
Lastly, and most importantly, my friends and I feel like Sasha is stealing Aryeh from us. They hang out a ton, giving us minimal time to hang out with him. We’re afraid of losing him as a friend. What should we do?
Should we try to break them up? Should we leave them and hope for the best? And it’s not like telling their parents will do anything, because they know already.
We’d love to hear your feedback.
Sincerely,
Concerned friends
Disclaimer: This column is not intended to diagnose or otherwise conclude resolutions to any questions. Our intention is not to offer any definitive conclusions to any particular question, rather offer areas of exploration for the author and reader. Due to the nature of the column receiving only a short snapshot of an issue, without the benefit of an actual discussion, the panel’s role is to offer a range of possibilities. We hope to open up meaningful dialogue and individual exploration.
Dear Readers,
We want to offer YOU an opportunity to be part of the discussion! Please email us at MichelleMondShadchan@gmail.com, subject line “reader’s response,” if you would like to participate in the new “A Reader’s Response” columnist spot. We will send you a question and publish your answer in an upcoming Navidaters edition.
If you have a question you would like the Navidaters to answer, please reach out to this email as well.
Looking forward!
Michelle, the “Shadchan”
Rebbetzin Lisa Babich
Hi,
Thank you for your question. I hear your concerns for your friend and his spiritual growth, especially with Israel around the corner and all the opportunities of learning and growth he will have there. However, I feel that many high school students go into Israel with a boyfriend or girlfriend, and they usually figure out pretty early on whether they want to stick with it or not. Many of these couples end up breaking up soon after Sukkos, while a handful of others stay together and go on to get married and have beautiful families. It’s hard to know which one Aryeh and Sasha will be. Furthermore, could there be a hint of jealousy in your question? You did mention that you feel she is taking your friend away from you and you have less time with him. That is just a good question to ponder and be honest with yourself.
It does sound like Aryeh is an overall good kid who started a relationship in high school. I obviously prefer people to meet when their minds and emotions are more developed so they can make clear and mature decisions, however, I also trust him to figure that out. They will know in Israel how they feel and will make the decision together if they should continue dating. I wouldn’t recommend that you and your friends get overly involved. Let him eventually figure it out with his rebbeim and mentors.
Best of luck!
Michelle Mond
Thanks so much for writing in! You sound like great friends who genuinely care about Aryeh and his wellbeing.
The question of whether it’s appropriate for him to be dating in twelfth grade really depends on who you ask, as differ ent people will have different hashkafic perspectives. That said, it’s fair to say that dating at this stage can definitely be a distraction. This is a unique time in life when a person gets to focus entirely on personal growth – figuring out who he is, what he believes in, and who he wants to become. When someone starts dating before they’ve had that opportunity, it can make things more complicated for both them and their future.
One approach could be for your whole group of friends to have an open and honest conversation with Aryeh. Let him know how you feel and encourage him to think about what he wants long-term. You might even suggest that he and Sa sha take a break while he’s in Israel so they can each focus on their own growth and then reassess down the line. Seeing all of his friends come together to talk about this might make him reflect on his choices.
At the same time, it’s important to remember that this is ultimately Aryeh’s decision. He may not see things the way you do, and even if you think he’s making a mistake, he has to come to his own con clusions. Friendships naturally evolve, and sometimes relationships – romantic or otherwise – cause people to drift apart.
If Aryeh is spending most of his time with Sasha, you may have to accept that things won’t go back to how they used to be. That doesn’t mean you can’t still be his friend, but it does mean recognizing that friendships are not always permanent fixtures, and people grow in different directions. If he and Sasha break up, he may find his way back to your group – or he may not. Either way, the best thing you can do is to remain friendly with healthy boundaries, while prioritizing your own personal growth.
Dr. Jeffrey Galler
Ihave read this letter several times, and still cannot decide if this was, or was not, a genuine letter actually written by
high school students.
If you are the high school seniors who wrote this, your school has failed to educate you from a halachic, from a secular, and from a life preparation point of view. First , among other grievous errors, applying the principles of “ye’harog v’al yaavor ” to this situation is a major mistake. This principle applies to profoundly serious matters and halachic violations of the highest order. You were either inattentive students
who do not have a proper understanding of halacha or a cynical reader might conclude that misguided teachers purposely allowed you to “misunderstand” halacha, in an ill-advised attempt to scare you into behaving in a manner that they deem proper.
The only obvious “sin” here would be your failure to mind your own business. How can you not understand how immoral it would be, and how selfish it would be, for you to interfere in your friend’s private life and happiness?
Second, you have failed to learn valuable lessons from your classes in world history. History is replete with records of the most horrific atrocities perpetrated by folks who were convinced that they were acting properly and fulfilling G-d’s will.
Think of the Crusades. The Spanish Inquisition. The Cossacks. Today’s Islamic extremists.
You will attempt to ruin your friend’s happiness in a misguided attempt to get
him to conform to your concepts of proper religiosity? Shame on you.
Third, your education did not properly prepare you for real life. In real life, some lucky folks meet each other early, connect, and marry while fairly young; others, spend frustrating years trying to find the “right” life partner.
Several years ago, at our 50th wedding anniversary, our children asked us if, looking back, we had any regrets. Both my wife and I replied that we regret that we had not met each other much earlier and gotten married many years earlier.
Only time will tell if your friend’s romance will continue to blossom and lead to a happy marriage, or if, over the next year or two, their paths may naturally diverge because of geographic dislocation and changing circumstances.
So, meanwhile, be happy for your classmate. Your only role here is to be a good, genuine, supportive friend.
Dating and Relationship Coaches and Therapists
Dear Concerned Friends, Thank you for such a thoughtful and honest letter. It’s clear how much you care, not just about Aryeh’s wellbeing, but about your own growth, your friendships, and staying connected to your values. That kind of awareness is rare, and it really moved me.
It sounds like Aryeh has been a meaningful part of your lives for a long time, and now that he’s in a relationship, things feel different. You’re worried about his spiritual direction, your shared goals for Israel, and maybe even about losing him as a friend. Those are
all very real and valid concerns.
Let’s talk about the spiritual side first. Yes, your rabbeim have taught you about boundaries and the importance of staying focused during this transitional time. That guidance matters, and it’s important to take it seriously. But it’s also true that not everyone’s growth looks the same. Some people become more grounded and selfaware in a relationship. Others might get a little off track. That doesn’t mean the relationship itself is the problem. It just means it might need to be navigated with
Aryeh L.*
Dear Concerned Friends, Thanks for writing in. I get it. you care deeply about Aryeh and want the best for him, especially as you all prepare for a meaningful year in Israel. It’s natural to worry about how a new relationship might impact that.
But let’s take a step back for a second. Dating, especially at your age, is a pretty normal and healthy part of life. It’s a time to learn about yourselves, what you value in a partner, and how to balance relationships with other commitments. Aryeh’s relationship with Sasha might be part of that journey. Who knows? She could be “the one.” Or maybe not. But either way, it’s an important experience for him. Instead of trying to intervene or worry about how it might affect his spiritual growth, maybe focus on supporting him and staying connected. If he’s happy and learning from this experience, that’s a good thing. And if he’s not, he’ll figure that out with the sup -
more intention.
If Aryeh seems like he’s pulling away from shiur or acting differently, you can absolutely check in with him but not from a place of panic or pressure. Try curiosity and care instead. You might say, “Hey, we miss learning and joking around with you. How are you feeling about everything these days?” That opens the door without putting him on the defensive.
As for Sasha, she may not be the bad influence you fear. It’s easy to assume that when someone changes, it’s because of who they’re dating. But Aryeh is still making his own choices. The best thing you can do is stay connected to him and remind him who he is in your eyes: a thoughtful, growing guy who cares about his friends and his future.
And now for the hardest part. The
When someone starts dating before they’ve had that opportunity, it can make things more complicated for both them and their future.
port of friends like you.
At the end of the day, friendships evolve, especially during big life transitions. Staying open-hearted and communicative is key. Give Aryeh some space to navigate this, and trust that your friendship can adapt and grow, just like he is.
I may be a bit biased because I am married for over thirty years to my high school sweetheart. How would you feel if you tried to break up a love that was meant to be?
fear of losing him. That hurts. It’s hard when someone we’re close to gets into a relationship and suddenly we’re not seeing them as much. You’re allowed to miss him. You’re allowed to feel left out. That doesn’t mean you need to break them up or do anything drastic. Try to create moments where you can just be with Aryeh again, not competing with his relationship but still holding space for your friendship.
Sometimes, the most powerful thing we can do for someone is to stay close, even when their path looks different from ours. Keep learning, stay rooted in your values, and be the kind of friend you yourself would want.
Sincerely, Jennifer Mann, LCSW
Jennifer Mann, LCSW is a licensed psychotherapist and certified trauma healing life coach, as well as a dating and relationship coach working with individuals, couples, and families in private practice at 123 Maple Avenue in Cedarhurst, NY. To set up a consultation or to ask questions, please call 718-908-0512. Visit www.thenavidaters.com for more information. If you would like to submit a dating or relationship question to the panel anonymously, please email JenniferMannLCSW@gmail.com. You can follow The Navidaters on FB and Instagram for dating and relationship advice.
By Rabbi Azriel Hauptman
The Gemara teaches us that when a child is conceived, an angel approaches Hashem and asks about the nature of this unborn child. Will
he be strong or weak? Wise or foolish? Wealthy or poor? Thus, parents receive children who are preprogrammed with specific abilities. As
a result, some children will need more help than others as they grow up and develop.
We often focus our attention on the best way to assist children who are facing challenges in school or with their friends. Parents do amazing things with their children and help their children blossom into mature and capable adults. What is often overlooked is the other children. The time and effort that is put into the child who needs extra assistance may lead to the other children feeling deprived of their parent’s attention.
You might be wondering, why would the more capable child feel offended? Doesn’t he or she realize that the child with special needs is not more loved? He or she just has certain needs that require time and effort!
The answer lies in the psychological nature of our emotions. Roughly speaking, we are composed of two different components. Our logical part and our emotional part. When we are faced with a challenge that requires intellect, our logic kicks in. So, if you are not sure how to assemble your new bookcase, your incredible powers of human intellect kicks in and helps you figure it out. However, our emotional part does not have full access to our intellect. Rather, it is governed by feelings and perceptions that are often superficial and illogical.
This is why greeting a person with a smile can literally brighten up their day. A second ago they were sad and despondent, and then you walked over to them and gave them a hearty good morning, and, suddenly, the sun is shining again. Conversely, you could be having a fine morning, and then someone cuts you off in traffic and you start raging in ways that are so illogical it can be embarrassing. This defies logic since
emotions are not based on logic.
When we discuss children, there is one overarching emotion that they must feel in order to evolve into happy and emotionally well-balanced adults. That emotion is a sense of being valued and having inherent worth.
We cannot feel happy and content unless we feel that we have inherent value as a human being. This is an emotion and is not based on logic. This emotion is primarily provided by the love and positive attention that is showered on a child from the day he or she is born. The unconditional outpouring of love that the child receives cultivates the feeling of having inherent value as a human being.
Since this is an emotion, your logical brain knowing that your parents love you is not enough. You must feel that your parents love you. Therefore, if a parent’s attention is drawn to something else and a child experiences a lack of attention from the parent, this is emotionally damaging for the child, even though the parent had a completely legitimate reason for being distracted.
Parenting is an exceedingly difficult job. When parents are tending to the needs of a child who needs extra attention, they must be extremely conscious of the necessity of showering their other children with their attention as well. Their child’s emotional wellbeing depends on it.
This is a service of Relief Resources. Relief is an organization that provides mental health referrals, education, and support to the frum community. Rabbi Yisrael Slansky is director of the Baltimore branch of Relief. He can be contacted at 410-448-8356 or at
Note:
Note: Not all submission have been published. Keep sending in your artwork for another chance to be featured!
By Naomi Nachman
This is a Pesach version of my Lamb Bahn Mi recipe from my book Perfect Flavors. This recipe was adapted to make an excellent and super flavorful appetizer. In the book, it calls for the meat to be served in a baguette like the famous Bahn Mi Sandwich but for Pesach you can serve it on matzah or mashed potatoes. If you are not a fan of lamb, you can use beef chuck meat instead.
Lamb Topping
◦ 1 lb. boneless lamb cubes
◦ 1 onion, sliced
◦ 1 teaspoon kosher salt
◦ 1 teaspoon paprika
◦ ½ teaspoon dried rosemary, crushed
◦ ½ cup water
Creamy Mint Aioli
◦ ½ cup packed fresh mint leaves
◦ ¼ cup packed fresh parsley
◦ 2 cloves garlic
◦ ½ small shallot
◦ ¼ cup red wine vinegar
◦ 1 teaspoon kosher salt
◦ ½ cup oil
◦ 2/3 cup mayonnaise
Quick-Pickled Radishes
◦ 1 bunch radishes, sliced
◦ ½ cup white wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar
◦ ¼ cup water
◦ 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup or honey
◦ ½ teaspoon kosher salt
Food and Prop Styling by Shiri Feldman and Chef Suzie Gornish.
Photography by Felicia Perretti
1. Prepare pulled lamb: Preheat oven to 325°F.
2. Place lamb cubes into a shallow baking dish. Add onion, salt, paprika, rosemary, and water. Cover tightly. Bake for about three hours, until lamb is fork-tender.
3. While the lamb still warm, use two forks to pull lamb into shreds. Mix together meat, onion, and any pan juices.
4. Meanwhile, prepare the aioli and pickled vegetables.
5. For the aioli: In the bowl of a food processor fitted with the S blade, combine herbs, garlic, and shallot. Process until fine. Add red wine vinegar and salt. Then, while the machine is running, slowly drizzle in the olive oil until mixture is combined and creamy.
6. For the quick-pickled radishes: Combine the vinegar, water, maple syrup or honey, and salt in a mason jar. Add the sliced radishes and allow to sit for 30 minutes.
7. To assemble: On each slice of matzah or on top of mashed potatoes, spread some aioli, then add some meat. Top with pickled radish.
Naomi Nachman, the owner of The Aussie Gourmet, caters weekly and Shabbat/ Yom Tov meals for families and individuals within The Five Towns and neighboring communities, with a specialty in Pesach catering. Naomi is a contributing editor to this paper and also produces and hosts her own weekly radio show on the Nachum Segal Network stream called “A Table for Two with Naomi Nachman.” Naomi gives cooking presentations for organizations and private groups throughout the New York/New Jersey Metropolitan area. In addition, Naomi has been a guest host on the QVC TV network and has been featured in cookbooks, magazines as well as other media covering topics related to cuisine preparation and personal chefs. To obtain additional recipes, join The Aussie Gourmet on Facebook or visit Naomi’s blog. Naomi can be reached through her website, www.theaussiegourmet.com or at (516) 295-9669.
EPISODE 1: RABBI MENACHEM GOLDBERGER
EPISODE 2: DR. ELIE MILLER
EPISODE 3: ANDREW CUSHNIR
