bbq dinner & snacks by the knish shop
sponsors have exclusive access to vip suites, with gourmet food by chef dan & a magic show for the kids
fun, interactive competitions & games for adults & kids on the field
face painting, moon bounces, hay ride, pony rides, big slide, balloon twisting, relay races & more!
Educators, you are the guiding lights of our schools - lighting the way for our students with wisdom, dedication and heart. Now, it’s time to shine the spotlight on YOU!
We congratulate all the educators who were nominated and are pleased to announce the following educators receiving awards this year.
Sam Kahan Distinguished Educator for Excellence in Jewish Education
Ahuva Schachter
JEWELS
Early Childhood Teaching Excellence Award
Maia Bar- Am
JCC Stoler Early Learning Center
Gladys Ricklis
Ohr Chadash Academy
Student Support Award
Rabbi Uri Rabinowitz
Binyan Yisroel
Ahavat Tzion Award
Rabbi Lowell Brazin
Krieger Schechter Day School
Excellence in General Studies Award
Rachel Shar
Ohr Chadash Academy
Inspiring Educator Award
Eeta Travis
Talmudical Academy
Innovative Educator Award
Adrienne Reicher
Goldsmith Early Childhood Education
Center of Chizuk Amuno
Congregational School Educator Award
Erez Haluf
Beth El Congregation
Educational Leadership Award
Gitti Horowitz
Bais Yaakov Middle School
The Robin F. Jacobs Student Achievement Award
Chaim Leeder
Talmudical Academy, 5th grade
Join us for an inspiring and celebratory evening as the Baltimore community comes together to honor the outstanding educators who make a lasting impact in our Jewish schools.
Monday, May 12 • 7:00 - 8:30 p.m.
Suburban Orthodox Congregation
Questions or need special accommodations? Contact Terri Rosen at tnrosen@jesbaltimore.org or 410-735-5008.
We welcome participants of all abilities.
Register today at bit.ly/ CelebratingEducation2025 or scan this code.
Follow us on Facebook @JewishEducationalServices and on Instagram @jesbaltimore
This past week was Yom HaShoah, Holocaust Remembrance Day. A day set aside to reflect on the six million kedoshim who were murdered during the Holocaust simply because they were Jews.
But Yom HaShoah is also a time to remember those who survived – the ones who walked out of the darkness carrying nothing but their emunah and the will to rebuild.
I recently wrote about my grandparents, Yehuda and Chana Friedman, a”h. They were extraordinary people who lived through the war, losing most of their family members in the process. But they held on to their faith, and somehow, they didn’t just survive, they thrived.
Like many survivors, they dreamed of getting out of Europe and starting over. They had only a few relatives in America. One of them, living in Washington, D.C., sponsored their immigration, and that’s where they ended up.
Life in Washington was far removed from the shtetl life they had known. It wasn’t easy, but they adapted. They raised a family, found work, and immersed themselves in building a new Jewish life in a place where Yiddishkeit wasn’t exactly flourishing.
My Zeidy became the shamash at Ohev Sholom Talmud Torah, where Rabbi Hillel Klaven, zt”l was the Rav. Together, they worked hard to keep the shul going. Many members of the congregation weren’t fully observant. In fact, some of them drove to shul on Shabbos. My grandparents were tolerant of the realities of American Jewish life at the time, but they still held onto their values with quiet strength.
So when it came time for my father’s Bar Mitzvah, they made a unique decision. They scheduled it for Thanksgiving Day.
Why? Because they didn’t want anyone to be mechalel Shabbos for the occasion. My father lained, got his aliyah, and the family celebrated afterward with a Thanksgiving morning Bar Mitzvah brunch.
It was a small act – but it made a lasting impression. This past Shabbos, I was in Houston for a family simcha. During Shalosh Seudos, Rabbi Yehoshua Wender, the longtime rav of Young Israel of Houston, shared divrei Torah. Rabbi Wender, who grew up in Washington, D.C. alongside my father, spoke about how that Thanksgiving Day Bar Mitzvah left a powerful impression on him. So much so that, when it came time for his own Bar Mitzvah a few years later, he asked for it to be held on Washington’s Birthday instead of Shabbos – so that no one would be mechalel Shabbos on his account.
These are the kinds of stories that rarely get written down. But they shape generations.
The survivors didn’t just rebuild, they made deliberate choices that reflected the values they held most dear. They understood that Torah wasn’t something to be preserved in memory alone, it had to be lived – even in a new and unfamiliar world.
Yom HaShoah is, first and foremost, a day of remembering lives lost, communities destroyed, and futures stolen. But it’s also a day to commemorate what was rebuilt in the ashes. The schools, the shuls, the homes where Shabbos candles were lit again and where the next generation grew up steeped in Torah and mesorah
The truth is, the Jewish people didn’t just survive the Holocaust. We emerged from it with a renewed mission. And that mission was carried out by people like my grandparents, who never sought the spotlight, but whose actions, both big and small, helped shape the American Jewish story.
Their emunah wasn’t just about belief – it was about action. And that action continues to reverberate in our communities, in our homes, and in the choices we make every day. Wishing you all 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!
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The 2025 season of the Jewish Community Softball League (JCSL) by MDSC officially got underway on Sunday morning, April 27, at the beautifully maintained AMP Solutions Fields in Reisterstown. Despite some rain the prior afternoon raising concerns about field conditions, the KD Gold & Coin Exchange Grounds Crew expertly prepared the playing surface, ensuring a high-quality experience for all participants, even amid unusually windy conditions.
Players arrived early, energized and enthusiastic, taking time to reconnect and review the latest updates to the Ashley Homes 2025 Rules and Regulations with the I Heart Remodeling Umpiring Crew.
In advance of Opening Day, all 108 players were distributed across nine balanced teams through a draft system, ensuring a competitive and evenly matched season. Each team proudly represents a dedicated sponsor: Ambush Law, Clothier, Donny Ankri Architects, The Friendship Circle, GB Homes, Lazar Real Estate, Orshan Legal Group, Web Interactive Technologies, and YL Waitering
Teams also received professionally designed jerseys, generously sponsored by Stutman Chiropractic and designed by Fired Up Promotions, adding a sharp, unified look to the league’s first day of play.
As in previous seasons, each team will compete in eight regular-season games, culminating in a playoff bracket featuring the top four teams. The playoff winners will advance to the championship game, where they will battle for the highly coveted Premier Financial Trophy
Special thanks to our 2025 Media Sponsor, Baltimore Jewish Life/Baltimore Jewish Home, for their continued support of JCSL coverage.
All photos in this article were captured by local photography hobbyist, Josh Finkelstein.
YL Waitering 20 – Web Interactive Technologies 10
YL Waitering opened their season with an impressive display of hustle and teamwork, securing a dominant 20-10 victory over Web Interactive Technologies. Defensive standouts included Simcha Malin, who made multiple highlight-reel catches at second base, and Mordechai Scheirmeyer, whose timely double plays stifled several rallies.
Offensively, Yaakov Lichter and Zevi Fishkind delivered crucial RBIs, while Moshe Burr impressed in the outfield with several hit-saving plays. Yehuda Rosen and Yaakov Furman ignited multiple rallies with their speed on the base paths. On the mound, Yanky Goldsmith provided steady and strategic pitching throughout the game.
Team captain Yoni Levin anchored the defense with poise, while Mendy Rauh, playing through injury, turned in a gritty performance at first base reminiscent of MLB’s Christian Walker.
Clothier 28 – Orshan Legal Group 23
In a high-scoring showdown impacted by blustery winds, Clothier emerged victorious over Orshan Legal Group with a 28-23 win. Yossi Muller navigated the gusts with finesse, both on the mound and at the plate, where he launched a pivotal three-run home run. The offense was further powered by triples from Jeremy Lasson, Tali Strum, and Ozzie Marizan, while Avraham Friedman contributed with a pair of doubles.
Additional offensive firepower came from Yehudah Pensak (4 hits) and Shmuel Artman, who crossed the plate five times. Clothier’s consistent scoring in seven of nine innings ultimately proved too much for Orshan Legal Group to overcome.
GB Homes 23 – Donny Ankri Architects 18
GB Homes started their 2025 campaign on a high note with a fast-paced 23-18 victory over Donny Ankri Architects. The game opened with a six-run first inning, fueled by timely hits from Evan Sagal and Shua Novograd. Despite a persistent effort by Donny Ankri Architects to
keep the game within reach, a clutch two-run home run by Shalom Stein in the ninth inning sealed the win for GB Homes.
The Friendship Circle 13 – Ambush Law 3
In a game showcasing pitching excellence and plate discipline, The Friendship Circle delivered a well-rounded performance to secure a commanding win over Ambush Law. Mayer Goldsmith led the charge on the mound, allowing just one earned run and recording eight strikeouts.
Offensively, the team demonstrated patience, drawing 12 walks and consistently pressuring the defense. The balanced contributions across the lineup highlighted a cohesive team performance and set the tone for a strong season ahead.
The 2025 JCSL by MDSC season is off to an electrifying start, with talent, teamwork, and community spirit on full display. Stay tuned for weekly recaps as the competition heats up on the road to the Premier Financial Trophy.
Women’s Institute of Torah Seminary & College is proud to announce that it has officially received regional accreditation from the Middle States Commission on Higher Education (Middle States). Regional accreditation is the highest level of accreditation, and it affirms the high quality of the education and student services provided at WITS.
Regional accreditation enhances the value of a WITS degree, providing international recognition, easing the transfer of credits, and opening the door for future program expan-
sions and partnerships. WITS is the first women’s seminary and college for Bais Yaakov graduates to achieve this level of accreditation.
“At WITS, our students continue their learning and growth, and prepare for professional life, in a Torah environment,” said Menaheles Rebbetzin Ettie Rosenbaum, “Middle States recognition allows WITS to bring its mission to the next level, ensuring that all doors are open to our graduates.”
This significant achievement follows a rigorous application and evaluation process, which resulted in WITS
achieving candidacy status in 2023. WITS is also nationally accredited by AIJS and recognized by the U.S. Department of Education, whose recognition allows WITS students to receive federal funding for their studies.
“This milestone is not the end but a new beginning,” said Dean Leslie Klein, “We are excited to build on this momentum and continue striving for even greater achievements in service to our students and our community.”
The full statement of accreditation is as follows: WITS is an accredited institution and a member of the
The Sylvia Rosenblatt Hebrew Unschool at Moses Montefiore Synagogue proudly announces that two of its students, Avraham Isaac Jacobs (age 9) and Avraham Zhu (age 10), have earned the Gold and Silver medals, respectively, at the CKids International JewQ Torah Championship.
Competing against over 2,000 students from 26 countries, including France, Australia, Argentina, and Canada, both champions achieved impressive scores of 96% or higher on their final exams. This remarkable accomplishment highlights their dedication and brings immense pride to the Pikesville community.
The championship weekend, held in New Jersey, featured a live game show, a visit to The Ohel (resting place of the Lubavitcher Rebbe), and a trip to the Nickelodeon Universe Theme Park in East Rutherford, NJ. The event culminated with a performance by renowned singer Eli Marcus.
Avraham Isaac and Avraham are exemplary students at the Sylvia Rosenblatt Hebrew Unschool, an Orthodox Sunday program emphasizing Hebrew literacy, Torah study, and joyful Jewish living.
Morah Rochel Blasenstein, director of the program, stated, “Earning gold and silver on the international
Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE) msche.org. WITS accreditation status is accreditation granted. The Commission’s most recent action on the institution’s accreditation status on April 24, 2025 was to grant accreditation. MSCHE is recognized by the U.S. Secretary of Education to conduct accreditation and pre-accreditation activities for institutions of higher education including distance, correspondence education, and direct assessment programs offered at those institutions. The Commission’s geographic area of accrediting activities is throughout the United States.
stage is a significant achievement. We are incredibly proud of Avraham Isaac and Avraham for their dedication to Torah learning and for bringing honor to our community.”
For more information about the Sylvia Rosenblatt Hebrew Unschool at Moses Montefiore Synagogue, please visit mmae.org.
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By: Debbie Katz
Young Israel Shomrai Emunah hosted the 45th annual Yom HaShoah v’Hagvurah Program. Well over 200 people attended the program in-person and on zoom. The Yom HaShoah program, which originate in 1980, was developed in order to create a communal opportunity to commemorate the Holocaust within the Orthodox Jewish community of Silver Spring. It has been organized each year by our local Holocaust committee, a group of individuals who share a resolve never to forget the tragic murder of 6 million Jews during the 2nd world war, just 80 years ago.
Given the continued spread of misinformation about the war in Gaza and the renewed rise in antisemitism in the US and worldwide, events such as the Yom HaShoah v’Hagvurah Program are extremely important. We must stand together, now and always, against Jew hatred wherever and whenever it manifests.
The Yom HaShoah program is sponsored yearly by YISE and KMS. The program takes place, alternating between the two Shuls. The program is also generously co-sponsored by the Berman Hebrew Academy, Ohr HaTorah, Sulam, Torah School of Greater Washington, Woodside Synagogue and the Yeshiva of Greater Washington. We rejoice at this strong showing of community achdus.
The Holocaust Committee’s program format has not changed substantially over the years. The committee invites Holocaust survivors to tell their stories of survival. For as long as possible, we do not want to rely on secondary accounts from historians, authors or even children of survivors.
The Holocaust Committee has also given top priority to including students. Each year, we encourage middle and high school children to accompany their parents to our Yom HaShoah program. These children will be the last generation to meet Holocaust survivors. Having the
opportunity to hear the stories firsthand from the survivors themselves is a tremendous zchus (privilege). They will be witnesses for future generations.
The 2025 Yom HaShoah v’Hagvurah program began with thought provoking remarks by Rabbi Dovid Rosenbaum, moreh d’asra of Young Israel Shomrai Emunah.
Then, Debbie Katz, master of ceremonies, spoke about schoolbased student learning programs in memory of the 6 million kedoshim. This year, Berman high students, led by Rabbi Moshe Grosberg completed learning of Rambam Hilchos Shabbos, Talmud Torah and Melachim Umilchamoseihem . The Yeshiva Girls School students learned b’chavrusa and collectively completed Sefer Pirkei Avos in the zechus of the kedoshim and then recorded their reflections. There was also an impactful program organized by Rebbetzin Sara Malka Winter, Rebbetzin Ruchie Reingold and Mr. Aryeh Shudofsky. May the neshamos of the 6 million have an Aliya as a result of the students’ learning.
The Holocaust touched members of our own and every Jewish community very personally. For the last seven years, the Yom Hashoah v’Hagvurah program has featured a Generations Candlelighting Ceremony . The Generations program brings six children or grandchildren of survivors from around the Silver Spring community to tell their family stories. This year, the participants were Elissa Stieglitz. Robert Leichter, Sylvia Goldberg, Howard Wasserman, Edie Creeger, Adir Aronovich
After the candlelighting program, our featured speaker, Mrs. Ruth Friedman Cohen was interviewed. Lisa Mellman expertly guided the conversation. Ruth was born in Mukacevo, Czechoslavakia in April 1930. The territory was annexed by Hungary in 1938. The Nazis invaded in March 1944. Ruth was then 14 years old. Ruth and her family were sent to Auschwitz followed by 2
forced labor camps. Ruth, her sister Teresa and their father managed to survive and come to the US in 1948.
Following the interview, the program ended with Hatikvah.
Over the past year, many Holocaust survivors, including several of those related to the Silver Spring community members have passed away. We mourn their loss and thank Hashem for the extra years of life they were granted and for the
Jewish families they raised. Their lives and the lives of their children, lived fully as proud practicing Jews, are the ultimate vengeance against Hitler Yimach Shmo vzichro.
May Hashem continue to give us strength to persevere against those that still seek to harm and destroy us.
May Hashem fortify us with strength, faith, courage and hope.
“By now, I know that anything I make from your cookbook will come out amazing. When I see a recipe with the Marblespoon name attached to it, I know it’s going to be good. I trust it.”
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BJH: Yonatan, tell us about your musical journey. How did you first become interested in the violin?
YG: Something clicked during my teenage years. I was at the Jerusalem Academy of Music High School and realized I was behind my peers. So I started practicing intensively – we’re talking early mornings, late nights, even during summer vacations. I was determined to catch up and truly become a musician.
BJH: Being an observant Jew, how challenging is it to pursue a career in classical music?
different periods, including those who were victims of the Holocaust. It’s my way of responding to historical anti-Semitism through music.
BJH: What makes your concerts different from traditional classical performances?
Yonatan Grinberg: It’s an interesting story. When I was four, a lady came to my kindergarten and demonstrated different instruments. I heard the violin and immediately told my mother, “I need to play violin!” But it took her three years to take me seriously. I started lessons at seven, and contrary to what many might think, I wasn’t a child prodigy. I was actually more interested in soccer at first.
BJH: How did you transition from a casual young musician to a professional violinist?
YG: It’s incredibly challenging. Most orchestra performances are on Shabbos, I can’t play in churches, and typical wedding gigs are off-limits. This forced me to be creative. I founded Chamber Encounters, my own music organization, to create opportunities for myself and other musicians.
BJH: Tell us about your most meaningful musical project right now.
YG: I’m particularly excited about an upcoming concert called “Jews in Music: A Musical Response to Rising Anti-Semitism.” It’s a powerful program featuring works by Jewish composers from
YG: I try to make classical music accessible. Our concerts are in a circular setup, and I always provide context before pieces. I explain the background, the composition, helping audiences truly understand and appreciate the music. Most people think they don’t like classical music, but I believe everyone can connect with it.
BJH: Do you think it’s possible for Orthodox musicians to pursue professional music careers?
YG: It’s challenging but not impossible. It requires extraordinary commitment and creativity. You have to be willing to create your own path. While reaching the highest levels of classical performance is difficult, achieving meaningful musical goals is absolutely possible.
BJH: Why did you choose to
stay in Baltimore?
YG: Baltimore has something special – it has room for humans. Unlike big cities where urban systems control everything, Baltimore allows for creativity and personal growth. The Jewish community here is warm and diverse, offering a unique blend of small-town values and big-city amenities.
BJH: Any advice for young musicians, especially those from Orthodox backgrounds?
YG: Don’t stop practicing. Many people quit and then regret it later. Find supportive environments, be persistent, and be creative in overcoming challenges. Your passion and commitment can overcome many obstacles.
BJH: Where can people learn more about your music and upcoming performances?
YG: They can visit my website yonatangrinberg.com, follow me on social media as @yonatangrinbergviolin, or check out chamberencounters.eventbrite.com. We have upcoming concerts and programs that I’m really excited about.
On Monday, Canadians headed to the polls, granting the Liberal Party a win in the federal election, cementing Mark Carney’s tenure as the country’s prime minister.
Carney is currently the prime minister and will now form a new government with a new cabinet.
It’s still unclear if the Liberals will
have a majority in the Parliament or whether they will need to look for alliances with other parties.
Canadians voted for all 343 members of the House of Commons, one for each constituency. The winning candidates were those who finished first, whether or not they won a majority of the votes.
A party needs 172 seats in Parliament for a majority.
In Canada, the prime minister is chosen by parliament rather than elected directly by the voters. Historically, the party that assembles a majority in the House of Commons — either alone or with the support of another party — forms a government. That’s expected to happen in the coming days. The leader of the party forming the government will be the new primer minister, who then has to pick a cabinet.
The current Liberal leader is Carney, who was sworn in on March 14 as prime minister after Justin Trudeau resigned. Now, he has won a full term as the head of the government.
Carney will have to face numerous challenges in the years ahead. Firstly, he will have to navigate a tense situation
with the United States, as President Donald Trump has been threatening Canada with steep tariffs and demands that Canada should become the 51st state.
Additionally, Canadians are struggling with rising food and housing prices, along with an influx of immigrants crowding their borders.
Carney, an economist, was educated in the U.S. and England. He had no experience in politics until he succeeded Trudeau as prime minister in March. He was a Goldman Sachs executive for more than a decade, until he started working in the Central Bank of Canada in 2003, as deputy governor. He was then the head of the Bank of Canada from 2008 to 2013 and headed the Bank of England from 2013 to 2020.
In a victory seat after he won, Carney declared, “As I have been warning for months, America wants our land, our resources, our water, our country. But these are not idle threats. President Trump is trying to break us so that America can own us.
“That will never ever happen.”
He added, “Our old relationship with the United States, a relationship based on
steadily increasing integration, is over.
“The system of open global trade anchored by the United States, a system that Canada has relied on since the Second World War, a system that, while not perfect, has helped deliver prosperity for our country for decades, is over.
“These are tragedies, but it’s also our new reality.”
Jordan recently uncovered a plot by the Muslim Brotherhood, a terrorist group affiliated with Hamas and the largest opposition group in Jordan, to launch attacks throughout the country in an effort to “undermine stability and security,” according to Jordan’s Interior Minister Mazen Fraya. Officials discovered “explosives and weapons transported between Jordanian cities and stored in residential areas” and “training and recruitment operations” that belonged to the Muslim Brotherhood, Fraya noted.
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
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
In light of that discovery, Jordan banned the Muslim Brotherhood, seized its assets, and created new laws to crack down on those who support the terror group.
The Muslim Brotherhood was technically banned in Jordan a decade ago. However, a part of the group, namely its political party, the Islamic Action Front, was still allowed to operate. Last year, that party secured many parliamentary seats. However, the majority of seats are still controlled by supporters of the government.
A week ago, Jordanian authorities detained 16 members of the Muslim Brotherhood for allegedly manufacturing rockets and drones meant to attack the Hashemite Kingdom. Suspects, who were purportedly funded and trained in Lebanon, were filmed confessing, but the group has denied involvement.
The Muslim Brotherhood, which was formed in Egypt almost 100 years ago and has expanded to many countries, has been banned in the majority of Arab countries for posing a danger. Jordanian officials have said the Muslim Brotherhood and Hamas, which was thrown out of Jordan in 1999, fueled anti-government street protests in Jordan about the war in Gaza.
About a year ago, Jordan announced that it had foiled an attempt from Iran to transfer weapons through Syria to Jordan’s Muslim Brotherhood.
Israeli southern city, where she started a family.
Grossman is survived by two children, four grandchildren, eight great-grandchildren, and two great-great-grandchildren.
Her granddaughter Luba told Kan News, “I am in shock—I have no words. Honestly, we thought she’d make it to 110. Yesterday, I gave her a bath, and she wasn’t feeling well. She was lucid until the end and died peacefully – on Holocaust Remembrance Day of all days.”
In recent days, Grossman “dreamed that there were Nazis near her; she woke up and said she dreamed they were choking her. She was afraid of the Nazis—that it was coming back,” Luba told the public broadcaster.
“She always said that we need to live in peace and without wars. All the grandchildren served in the army so it wouldn’t happen again. On October 7, her great-grandchildren were in the army. It was very hard for her. She cried that it’s happening again, and that antisemitism is rising.”
Her son, Vladimir Schwatz, spoke about her at a Holocaust Remembrance event earlier this week, just before she died.
“My mother is one of the oldest Holocaust survivors in the world,” he said. “She experienced the worst, and she survived. We must all remember her Holocaust story, remember her survival, so that her past never becomes our future.”
On the same day that Nechama Grossman passed away, another Holocaust survivor, Eve Kugler, died in London. She was 94.
Nechama Grossman, Israel’s oldest known Holocaust survivor, died on Thursday at the age of 109, as the country marked Yom HaShoah.
Her funeral was held Friday in Arad, where she lived most of her life.
Ms. Grossman was born in 1915, and after fleeing Europe, she settled in the
Ms. Kugler had been set to participate in the March of the Living, which took place at Auschwitz on Thursday, but ultimately did not travel to Poland for the event.
She had participated in multiple March of the Living events, including last year.
Ms. Kugler was born in 1931 in Germany and witnessed the Nazi Kristallnacht rampage when she was 7, before the family fled to France 1939. In 1941, she was granted passage to the United States aboard a ship and lived in foster homes with her siblings in New York until the rest of her family was able to join them in 1946 after the war ended.
Ms. Kugler graduated from the University of Pennsylvania and later worked as a photojournalist. Later in her life, she moved to London, where she became a prominent educator about the
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6. Baltimore Sports: Ravens tickets on the 50-yard line, great Orioles t ickets to multiple games, MLB & NFL jerseys of your choice, Ravens signed football, Top ps and Fleer baseball cards
7. Washington Sports: Nationals tickets, money towards a Terps basketball game and Washington Capitals game, gift card to Oh Mama Grill
8 . I Heart NY: Superior Tours bus tickets from Baltimore, Broadway show gift card, Visa gift card
9 . Florida Fun: $500 Universal Studios or Disney World gift card an d 3-night stay at Hilton Orlando Altamonte Springs
10. Family Fun: Tickets to a wide array of family entertainment ven ues and restaurants
11. Shabbos For a Month: Borselino Alexander Alessandria hat (valued at $350 ), g ift cards to 7 Mile Market, Market Maven, Wasserman & Lemberger, Pariser’s Bakery, Sha bbos dinner or lunch from Knish Shop
12. Man Cave: Nintendo Switch, 70" flat screen TV, bottle of prem ium Scotch, gift cards to Amazon & Yesh
13. Treat Yourself: Pair of beautiful silver Gabe & Ruben’s earrings, g ift cards to Kaylah Diamonds & Jewelry, Playa Bowls, AdinaB Salon & Spa
do not need to be present at
Holocaust and the horrors of the Nazi regime, regularly giving speeches and attending events honoring those who lost their lives in the genocide.
Tal Shoham, a former hostage who spent 505 days in Hamas captivity, recounted his abduction and time in Gaza in an interview with The Associated Press. Tal, 40, explained that there were “many times that I separated from life and…tried to accept death.”
He, his wife, two children, and three relatives were abducted during the October 7 massacre, when Hamas terrorists stormed southern Israel, killing 1,200
people and kidnapping 251 others. Of those hostages, 59 remain in Gaza, with only around 24 of them believed to be alive. Tal’s parents-in-law were killed on that day. His wife, children, and relatives were released around a month later, while he remained in captivity until February, as part of a ceasefire deal.
At the time of his abduction, Tal had been visiting family members in Kibbutz Be’eri, one of the worst-hit border communities. Terrorists separated him from his family, threw him into the back of a vehicle, and drove him to Gaza. After being kidnapped, he didn’t know if his family was still alive.
During half of his captivity, Tal was kept locked in an apartment room, where he was handcuffed. A month into his captivity, Evyatar David and Guy Gilboa-Dalal, two other hostages who were kidnapped from the Supernova music festival, were moved to the same room. They were regularly beaten and humiliated by the terrorists guarding them. The guards made shooting noises and tauntingly asked them how the music festival was.
The terrorists banned the three from
speaking to each other, though they communicated with whispers. During his captivity, Tal learned Arabic and spoke to his captors about his life in Israel. In exchange for giving one of the guards back massages, the three hostages were given food like tuna, sardines, and eggs. Around 50 days after he was taken hostage, the terrorists informed Tal that his wife and children would be home safe again shortly.
In June 2024, after Israel rescued four other abductees from apartments, the three men were moved from an apartment to a tunnel around 98 feet underground. They were moved in ambulances, with all three shaved, blindfolded, and dressed like Palestinians. In the dark, damp tunnels, in which it was difficult to breathe, Tal, Evyatar, and Guy joined Omer Wenkert. The four hostages stayed in a 39-foot-long cell, where they slept on mattresses and showered once every three weeks.
Over the 505 days, Tal lost 60 pounds and developed a serious leg infection, which was treated by a doctor.
As part of the last ceasefire, Tal and Omer were released. Evyatar and Guy, whom Shoham asked to remain strong,
are still in captivity.
Tal said that a self-identified member of Hamas called and threatened his wife after her release, promising to kill her then-captive husband if she talked about what she endured in captivity.
On Thursday, Master Sgt. (res.) Asaf Cafri was killed by sniper fire in northern Gaza. Cafri, a reservist from Beit Hashmonai, was a tank driver in the 14th Reserve Armored Brigade’s 79th Battalion. He was standing outside his tank in the Beit Hanoun area, near an Israeli military post, when he was shot, according to a preliminary investigation by the Israel Defense Forces.
As part of the same attack, a 79th Battalion reservist, along with an officer from the elite Yahalom combat engineering, sustained serious wounds. Another reservist, from the Gaza Division’s Northern Brigade’s 8239th Battalion, was moderately injured.
At the time of Cafri’s death, his great-grandmother, a 96-year-old Holo-
9:00 am
Breakfast Club
9:30 am
Yoga with Deborah Bandos
11:00 am
Discussion Group with Rabbi Karp
12:00 pm
Lunch & Learn
1:00 pm
Arts & Crafts with Shifra
2:00 pm
Music with Mr. Fried
9:00 am
Breakfast Club
9:30 am
Yoga with Deborah Bandos
10:15 am
Anagrams with Malka Zweig
11:00 am
Discussion Group with Rabbi Karp
12:00 pm
Lunch & Learn
1:00 pm
BINGO
1:45 pm
Guitar with Yossi K
9:00 am
Breakfast Club
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
12:00 pm
Lunch & Learn
1:45 pm
Guitar with Yossi K
9:00 am
Breakfast Club
9:30 am
Yoga with Deborah Bandos
10:15 am
Anagrams with Malka Zweig
11:00 am
Discussion Group with Rabbi Karp
12:00 pm
Lunch & Learn
1:00 pm
Arts & Crafts with Shifra
1:45 pm
Guitar with Yossi K
9:00 am
Breakfast Club
9:30 am
Yoga with Deborah Bandos
10:00 am
Baking with Yehudis
11:00 am
Discussion Group with Rabbi Karp
12:00 pm
Lunch & Learn
1:00 pm
Music with Aharon Grayson
caust survivor named Magda Baratz, had been visiting Germany’s Bergen-Belsen concentration camp to commemorate Holocaust Remembrance Day. Baratz, as a young girl, survived Bergen-Belsen. As a guest of honor, she visited the camp along with her grandson Hagai, who is Cafri’s father.
“Asaf fell when his great-grandmother and family flew to the ceremony,” said Cafri’s aunt, Hadas. “She said that visiting the camp where she almost died was her victory. She managed to survive, came to Israel, and started a family and legacy.”
According to Hadas, on October 7, Cafri donned his uniform and headed south without hesitation.
“He felt it was his generation’s turn to serve and protect. He always said, ‘It’s our duty to give of ourselves and defend the country.’ He believed he was fighting
to bring the hostages home,” Hadas said.
“This Passover, he stayed in Gaza. He was the only one missing from the Seder. We video-called, sent photos and messages, but he was deeply missed. He had a pure heart and lived to do good. We’re shattered.”
Cafri had three younger brothers, Yoav, Itay and Idan, and was studying engineering at Ariel University.
He participated in four rounds of fighting in Gaza.
According to the IDF’s tally, Cafri’s passing raises the total of soldiers killed since the October 7 massacre of last year to 849; 408 soldiers were killed since the start of the IDF’s ground offensive in the Gaza Strip on October 27 of that year.
The Israeli army announced that it launched a strike on Sunday on a Hezbollah precision missiles warehouse located in southern Beirut. The strike fol-
lowed the killing of a senior Hezbollah terrorist that same day.
In a joint statement, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Defense Minister Israel Katz said that the missiles “posed a significant threat to Israel.”
“Israel will not allow Hezbollah to grow stronger and pose any threat to it – anywhere in Lebanon,” Netanyahu and Katz said. “The Lebanese government bears direct responsibility for preventing these threats.”
The Israel Defense Forces added, “The storage of missiles in this infrastructure site constitutes a blatant violation of the understandings between Israel and Lebanon and poses a threat to the State of Israel and its civilians.”
In response, Joseph Aoun, the president of Lebanon, accused Israel
of trying to destabilize Lebanon and urged “the United States and France, as guarantors of the ceasefire agreement, to assume their responsibilities and compel Israel to halt its attacks immediately.”
Earlier on Sunday, Col. Avichay Adraee, the IDF’s Arabic-language spokesman, posted a map to X, showing the building they would be striking. He asked civilians to evacuate 984 feet or more to be safe.
“To everyone present in the building marked in red as shown on the map and the buildings adjacent to it: You are present near facilities belonging to Hezbollah,” Adraee said.
In Halta, a village in Lebanon, the IDF launched a drone strike, killing a Hezbollah terrorist who had been playing a role in rearming and regrouping the Iranian proxy group.
Hezbollah started attacking Israel on October 8, 2023, a day after the October 7 massacre. In November 2024, Israel and Hezbollah reached a ceasefire, just two months after the conflict escalated into a full war with a ground offensive.
while ordering another carrier, the USS Carl Vinson, to the region to bolster military power.
A U.S. F/A-18E fighter jet rolled off the side of an aircraft carrier and sank to the bottom of the Red Sea this week. One enlisted crew member was onboard the jet during the incident. Another crew member was inside the tractor pulling the plane. Both managed to jump out in time before the jet rolled off the side of the boat; one person sustained a minor injury while doing so.
The $60 million jet was being towed out of the hangar bay of the USS Harry S. Truman when the crew lost control.
“The F/A-18E was actively under tow in the hangar bay when the move crew lost control of the aircraft. The aircraft and tow tractor were lost overboard,” the Navy wrote in a statement. “Sailors towing the aircraft took immediate action to move clear of the aircraft before it fell overboard. An investigation is underway.”
The USS Harry S. Truman has been operating in the Red Sea since last September as a foil against attacks by Houthi rebels in Yemen against commercial vessels.
It’s not clear what contributed to the crew members losing control of the aircraft aboard the carrier, which has previously been targeted by the Houthis. According to a U.S. official, initial field reports suggest a sudden movement of the carrier due to Houthi fire might have been a factor in the incident.
The Truman was supposed to come back to the United States last month, but U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth extended its deployment
We’ve been hearing about it for years, and now it’s finally here. On May 7, Americans will not be able to use their state-issued driver license or non-driver identification to board a domestic flight or enter a federal building. Instead, they will need to present federal-issued documentation such as a passport or REAL ID.
Next week, the Department of Homeland Security will begin enforcing the 2005 law requiring all passengers over the age of 18 to show a security-enhanced REAL ID issued by their state or another federally recognized document.
Congress passed the law in 2004 requiring a national digital identification system, intended to improve security for state-issued driver’s licenses and personal identification cards after the September 11 terrorist attacks
The security measure, known as the REAL ID Act, was signed into law by former President George W. Bush a year later.
Under the law, people who want a state-issued driver’s license or identification card must verify their full legal name, Social Security number, and proof of residency and lawful status to the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV). The state would then connect its license databases to a national electronic network.
Enforcement of the law was repeatedly delayed. In 2007, at least 13 states opposed the ID card, saying it would cost billions of dollars to administer and increase risks to privacy. By 2012, states began to comply. After numerous extensions by 2020, most states were in compliance, but Covid-19 halted all efforts until December 2022. Then, the federal agency said that state motor vehicle departments need more time to clear the backlog of applications created
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California Gov. Gavin Newsom announced last Wednesday that his state is now the fourth-largest economy in the world, overtaking Japan’s $4.02 trillion nominal GDP with a 2024 nominal GDP of $4.1 trillion. He said that California’s economy is only behind the United States, China, and Germany.
“California isn’t just keeping pace with the world — we’re setting the pace,” Newsom declared. “Our economy is thriving because we invest in people, prioritize sustainability and believe in the power of innovation.”
During the same announcement, Newsom decried what he called “the reckless tariff policies of the current federal administration,” which he says threaten his state’s economy, adding that “California’s economy powers the nation, and it must be protected.”
Accounting for 14% of the U.S.’s 2024 GDP, California has a higher population than any other state, with
of 1977, which gives presidents the power to levy sanctions and export controls, regulate financial transactions, and freeze foreign assets after consulting with Congress. Twelve other states also sued the Trump administration.
According to the state, in 2024, California, in total, imported and exported around $675 billion to and from its most important trade partners, Mexico, Canada, and China. Last year, California imported over $491 billion, $203 billion of which came from those three countries.
Ewan Valentine was heartbroken when his black 2016 Honda Civic was stolen in February from his overnight parking space.
realized that it was really familiar.
“I started to notice some odd things when I got it home. I noticed a tent peg and some Christmas tree pines in the boot [trunk]. I noticed the locking wheel nut was in a Tesco sandwich bag. I noticed some wrappers in the central storage section. All oddly similar to my stolen car,” he wrote on social media.
In further investigation, Valentine decided to check the car’s on-board GPS and discovered it had previously been to his house, his parents’ house
and even his friend’s parents’ house.
“A part of me felt sort of triumphant for a moment until I realized, actually, no, this isn’t some heroic moment; you didn’t go and get your car back; you’ve actually done something a bit stupid,” Valentine said.
Although the VIN listed was different than the VIN that Valentine’s original car had, when he took the car to the Honda dealership, technicians confirmed the new car’s VIN was a fake and that the car was indeed the
one that had been stolen from Valentine.
“The first Honda technician, he pulled the physical key out, puts it straight in the door and unlocks it and he’s like, ‘Yes, it’s your car,’” Valentine said.
For now, police are investigating the matter.
“The police are now handing the car over to my insurance company, who will either get it road legal again and in a position that it can be insured on my original policy again or pay out for the car if that costs more than the car,” Valentine said.
Hey, what goes around, comes around.
our mutual love of Minions,” she said. Benecke isn’t done buying Minion merchandise.
“I will never stop buying Minions to bring home to join my Minion family,” she said. “My daughter thinks I have enough but I love them more than ever.”
Anyone looking for a minyan for Maariv?
Liesl Benecke really loves Minions, the little yellow mischief-makers from children films. In fact, the Australian woman earned a Guinness World Record with her collection of 1,035 Min-
Benecke said she fell in love with the Despifilm and started collecting
“I remember laughing so much at the cute, little pill-shaped henchmen. They certainly made a huge impression
Guinness World Re. “I’m just a big kid at heart. Since then I have always been on the lookout
“My daughter says I need another house just to store my Minions, but I love being surrounded by their beautiful, bright yellow smiles,” she said. “They are in every room and on every
Despite having so many yellow dolls
“My favorite is Stuart, the sassy, one-eyed Minion with attitude, and he is the one I have tattooed on my arm. So many people and kids comment on the tattoo, and we start talking about
A boat went airborne and flipped in the air during a racing event on a lake in Arizona over the weekend. As the crowd watched jaw-dropped, the two racers inside the boat emerged from the boat “just a little banged up.”
The greatest miracle? The fact that the boat won the race despite flipping 30 feet in the air.
The vessel won the annual speedboat contest on the three-quarter-mile course by registering a top speed of 200.1 mph. Thankfully, the racers were wearing harnesses and helmets during the race-flight.
According to Speedboat Magazine publisher Ray Lee, the twin-hull Skater boat is designed to rise up and hydroplane across the surface of the water. Windy conditions and propeller adjustments called trims likely contributed to the boat taking flight, he said.
Lee says it’s an inherently dangerous sport, though courses have been shortened from a previous length of 1 mile that produced speeds in excess of 240 mph. Safety precautions include reinforced cockpits with underwater diving gear.
Steve Ticknor, president of the company that runs the event, said that divers were on hand and responded to the crash within 20 seconds.
He described the relief of seeing both people on board the boat pop open the hatch. “Oh my gosh, it’s just a miracle,” Ticknor said.
Full speed ahead…
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To our brothers, the children of Klal Yisroel in all the diaspora, Rabbi Pesach Lerner, who is known for many years for his work for the kedusha of Eretz Yisroel and the protection of the mesorah of Klal Yisroel in many areas, and especially regarding the holiness of the Kosel against those who seek to desecrate it, and has already done much in this in past years, has come before me. He described to me about the activity of the 'Eretz HaKodesh' movement that was established by him, whose sole purpose is to continue and act further for these important matters, and it officially represents the voice of the Jews of the diaspora from the Torah communities who seek to add to the kedusha of the land, and to increase Torah and tefila and to strengthen the voice of Torah that echoes between the walls of the Batei Medrash in Eretz Yisroel. And against those who seek to represent the Jews of the diaspora by the Reform and liberal movements only, who seek to uproot the values of Torah and the mesorah of Klal Yisroel. And certainly it is a great thing to support and vote for Eretz HaKodesh and thereby become a partner in their blessed work. And all who join and act to strengthen their work will merit to see the face of our Moshiach Tzidkeinu speedily in our days and in the blessing of all good things.
HaRav Avigdor Nebenzahl
VOTE ERETZ HAKODESH. BACKED BY GEDOLIM.
I sign this on 26 Nissan 5785 Gateshead.
BACKED BY THE GEDOLIM BACKED BY THE GEDOLIM BACKED BY THE GEDOLIM BACKED BY THE GEDOLIM BACKED BY THE GEDOLIM BACKED BY THE GEDOLIM BACKED BY THE GEDOLIM BACKED BY THE GEDOLIM BACKED BY THE GEDOLIM BACKED BY THE GEDOLIM BACKED BY THE GEDOLIM BACKED BY THE GEDOLIM BACKED BY THE GEDOLIM BACKED BY THE GEDOLIM BACKED BY THE GEDOLIM BACKED BY THE GEDOLIM BACKED BY THE GEDOLIM BACKED BY THE GEDOLIM BACKED BY THE GEDOLIM BACKED BY THE GEDOLIM BACKED BY THE GEDOLIM BACKED BY THE GEDOLIM BACKED BY THE GEDOLIM BACKED BY THE GEDOLIM BACKED BY THE GEDOLIM BACKED BY THE GEDOLIM BACKED BY THE GEDOLIM BACKED BY THE GEDOLIM BACKED BY THE GEDOLIM BACKED BY THE GEDOLIM BACKED BY THE GEDOLIM BACKED BY THE GEDOLIM BACKED BY THE GEDOLIM BACKED BY THE GEDOLIM BACKED BY THE GEDOLIM BACKED BY THE GEDOLIM BACKED BY THE GEDOLIM BACKED BY THE GEDOLIM BACKED BY THE GEDOLIM BACKED BY THE GEDOLIM BACKED BY THE GEDOLIM BACKED BY THE GEDOLIM BACKED BY THE GEDOLIM BACKED BY THE GEDOLIM BACKED BY THE GEDOLIM BACKED BY THE GEDOLIM BACKED BY THE GEDOLIM BACKED BY THE GEDOLIM BACKED BY THE GEDOLIM BACKED BY THE GEDOLIM BACKED BY THE GEDOLIM BACKED BY THE GEDOLIM BACKED BY THE GEDOLIM BACKED BY THE GEDOLIM BACKED BY THE GEDOLIM BACKED BY THE GEDOLIM BACKED BY THE GEDOLIM BACKED BY THE GEDOLIM BACKED BY THE GEDOLIM BACKED BY THE GEDOLIM BACKED BY THE GEDOLIM BACKED BY THE GEDOLIM BACKED BY THE GEDOLIM BACKED BY THE GEDOLIM BACKED BY THE GEDOLIM BACKED BY THE GEDOLIM BACKED BY THE GEDOLIM BACKED BY THE GEDOLIM BACKED BY THE GEDOLIM BACKED BY THE GEDOLIM BACKED BY THE GEDOLIM BACKED BY THE GEDOLIM BACKED BY THE GEDOLIM BACKED BY THE GEDOLIM BACKED BY THE GEDOLIM BACKED BY THE GEDOLIM BACKED BY THE GEDOLIM BACKED BY THE GEDOLIM BACKED BY THE GEDOLIM BACKED BY THE GEDOLIM BACKED BY THE GEDOLIM BACKED BY THE GEDOLIM BACKED BY THE GEDOLIM BACKED BY THE GEDOLIM BACKED BY THE GEDOLIM BACKED BY THE GEDOLIM BACKED BY THE GEDOLIM BACKED BY THE GEDOLIM BACKED BY THE GEDOLIM BACKED BY THE GEDOLIM BACKED BY THE GEDOLIM BACKED BY THE GEDOLIM BACKED BY THE GEDOLIM BACKED BY THE GEDOLIM BACKED BY THE GEDOLIM BACKED BY THE GEDOLIM BACKED BY THE GEDOLIM BACKED BY THE GEDOLIM BACKED BY THE GEDOLIM BACKED BY THE GEDOLIM BACKED BY THE GEDOLIM BACKED BY THE GEDOLIM BACKED BY THE GEDOLIM BACKED BY THE GEDOLIM BACKED BY THE GEDOLIM BACKED BY THE GEDOLIM BACKED BY THE GEDOLIM BACKED BY THE GEDOLIM BACKED BY THE GEDOLIM BACKED BY THE GEDOLIM BACKED BY THE GEDOLIM BACKED BY THE GEDOLIM BACKED BY THE GEDOLIM BACKED BY THE GEDOLIM BACKED BY THE GEDOLIM BACKED BY THE GEDOLIM BACKED BY THE GEDOLIM BACKED BY THE GEDOLIM BACKED BY THE GEDOLIM BACKED BY THE GEDOLIM BACKED BY THE GEDOLIM BACKED BY THE GEDOLIM BACKED BY THE GEDOLIM BACKED BY THE GEDOLIM BACKED BY THE GEDOLIM BACKED BY THE GEDOLIM
Hagaon
HaRav Gershon
Edelstein ZT"L
"To my dear friends in the USA, In the upcoming elections, I give my full support and encouragement to Eretz HaKodesh. I know these people, and I follow their activities that create tremendous influence on the future of Yiddishkeit in Eretz Yisroel. Therefore, I ask everyone who can, to vote for Eretz HaKodesh and assist them in bringing kedusha to Eretz Yisroel. This is what Hakadosh Baruch Hu asks of us, to keep Eretz Yisroel kadosh: 'And you shall be to Me a kingdom of priests and a holy nation.'"
HaRav Asher
Weiss Shlita
DEADLINE TO VOTE IS SUNDAY, MAY 4TH
Chairman, Eretz HaKodesh
There has been much discussion and confusion surrounding the World Zionist Organization (WZO) and Eretz HaKodesh’s role within it. To help clarify things, we’ve put together a few key points.
Let’s begin with some facts about the WZO:
● The WZO played a major part in creating the State of Israel.
It has evolved since then and today plays a significant role in shaping Jewish life in Israel and around the world as the voice of the Jewish people, particularly American Jewry.
● It is governed by parties elected every five years at the World Zionist Congress and is determined by party size and coalition building.
● The WZO has a huge influence on many aspects of Israeli society.
● This influence is primarily gained through its annual income of $2.3 billion from its share of purchase taxes on land it owns in Israel.
● These funds belong to Jews across the world. That includes us.
● The distribution of these funds
and the influence the WZO exerts are determined by delegate representation and control.
Historically, the vast majority of WZO funds have been used to support the infrastructure and growth of the State of Israel, benefiting all its citizens.
For decades, this structure remained largely unchanged — until a dramatic shift occurred in recent times…
Let’s explain:
Facing a challenge of minimal relevance in Israel, the American non-Orthodox and liberal-left movements decided to make the State of Israel a central part of their agenda. Sensing an opportunity, they mobilized their membership to vote in the WZO elections.
The results speak for themselves:
For the last 25-30 years, the Congress has been controlled by the non-Orthodox and liberal-left movements. As the majority of the WZO, they claim to represent Diaspora Jewry — including YOU. Using their influence, they have utilized WZO funds to promote their agenda, undermine our Torah values, attack traditional family values, and challenge the Kedusha of Torah and Eretz Yisrael.
Perhaps their most effective tactic has been using the Israeli Supreme Court to attack many aspects of Orthodox religious life in Eretz Yisrael. Court cases have been brought against the use of Mechitzahs at Mekomos Hakedoshim, specifically the Kosel, against Mehadrin buses, Kosher cell phones, and most dramatically, welfare and childcare benefits for tens of thousands of Torah students and their families.
That’s when Eretz HaKodesh stepped in.
Under the guidance of Gedolei Yisrael, Eretz HaKodesh was founded to counter the non-Orthodox and liberal left movements and to give
Torah Jews a much-needed voice.
In the past five years, we have stood on the front lines, fighting against the expansion of pluralism and the growth of alternative forms of Judaism in various areas of Israeli society.
In addition to many positive projects and endeavors, Eretz HaKodesh has successfully directed much-needed funds to vital causes. Since winning 25 delegates in 2020, Eretz HaKodesh’s representatives helped direct millions of NIS from the Jewish Agency and KKL/JNF toward causes close to our hearts.
This includes:
● 120,000,000 NIS for Youth and At-Risk Programs
● 35,000,000 NIS for American Yeshivos and Seminaries
● 40,000,000 NIS for Religious Cities (Youth Movements, activities)
● 6,000,000 NIS for Tuition Support for Israeli Seminary Girls
Voting ends Sunday, May 4.
In the last election, the liberal movements gathered 50,000 votes.
We, who truly care about the kedusha of Eretz Yisroel, must do much better.
We all need to vote to preserve Kedushas Eretz Yisrael!
VOTE Slate #11 today at ERETZHAKODESH.org.
If each of us does our part, Torah Jews and our friends on the right will become the majority in the WZO!
Remember, not voting is, by default, a vote for the non-Orthodox and liberal left movements.
SINAI HOSPITAL
1st floor, off the Blaustein
Lobby
JOHNS HOPKINS
1st Floor, Blalock Room 175
GBMC
New Building, Main Entrance, Adjacent to the Spiritual Care offices – Room 3281
UNIVERSITY OF MD
MEDICAL CENTER
6th Floor, Gudelsky Conference room
UNION MEMORIAL
First floor, Johnson Professional Building across from the Zen Meditation Garden
n the heart of Tel Aviv, where the relentless hum of ambition fills the air, David navigated his way through the crowded train station. His mind was cluttered with deadlines and project updates from his high-pressure tech job. The city--with its endless skyscrapers and flashing screens--often felt like a circuit board. Efficient, but cold.
On this particular Thursday morning, the winter sun rose between the buildings, casting long shadows across the station floor. David hurried through his commute. The station was a stark contrast to the polished corporate avenues he was headed toward. Here, the architecture was older. The signs are a bit dimmer despite the morning light.
As he turned toward his platform, David's eyes caught a peculiar sight: a small table set up near a pillar, manned by two women with warm, inviting smiles. Curiosity piqued, David approached the table, which was piled high with packages.
"What's all this?" David asked, his tone a mix of curiosity and directness honed by years in corporate meetings.
"Shabbos candles," the younger of the two women replied, her voice rich with a calm assurance. "Would you like to take a package? Shabbat starts tomorrow evening, you know."
David hesitated. Shabbat. The word echoed in his mind, stirring memories of his grandma's home, where she lit candles every Friday night, her face bathed in their gentle glow. He hadn't thought about those rituals in years, not since he'd moved to the city and replaced the sporadic Shabbat dinners with late nights at the office.
"Why not," David finally said, more to himself than to them. He picked up a package, the simple act feeling strangely significant.
The older woman smiled and handed him a small package containing two candles, a note with the candle lighting time, and a summary of the Shabbat portion. "Take it home with you. Light them tomorrow before sunset," she advised gently. As David accepted it, something within him stirred. A warmth, a flicker of something vaguely familiar yet long suppressed.
"It's beautiful, isn't it?" the younger woman said, watching him with eyes that seemed to know far more than they should. "Sometimes, we need a little light to remind us of the beauty that exists in the world."
David nodded, unsure of what to say. For a moment, the station's chaos receded. There was something profoundly peaceful about standing there, package in hand, the simple act of accepting it reconnecting
him to a part of himself he didn't even know existed.
Something in his heart stirred again. He was sure he felt a tiny ache inside, a squeeze.
"Thank you," David murmured as he carefully placed the package in his briefcase.
"You're welcome," they replied in unison, gentle smiles on their lips. "Shabbat Shalom."
David walked away toward his platform, the weight of the package in his briefcase somehow noticeable despite its lightness. He didn't know what to make of the emotions swirling inside him. It wasn't a dramatic revelation or a sudden desire to change his life. Instead, it was a subtle dawn, a reminder of something he didn't think he'd ever forgotten, of a heritage that had quietly waited in the background while he built his career.
That evening, back in his sleek, modern apartment, David took out the package and placed it by his window. He looked at it, imagining how its light would mingle with the city lights when lit tomorrow. It wouldn't solve his problems or alleviate the pressures of his job. But the thought of lighting it brought a moment of tranquility, a connection to a tradition that felt both ancient and incredibly personal.
As he prepared for bed, David felt a quiet resolve to perhaps explore this part of himself a bit more. Perhaps. He felt a door creak open to a path he had never really considered walking down before. In the heart of Tel Aviv, amid the noise and haste, something rekindled a spark in David, reminding him that even in the most unlikely places, there are pieces of ourselves waiting to be rediscovered.
AND WHY WAS THERE A TINY TEAR SLIDING DOWN HIS FACE, FORMING A DROPLET ON THE SILK OF HIS TIE AS HE CAREFULLY HUNG IT UP FOR THE NEXT DAY?
Likras distributes thousands of candles every Erev Shabbos throughout Israel, rekindling sparks. Reminding Jews from all walks of life, that beneath all the layers, their pintele yid shines bright.
Little tables strewn across the breadth of Israel laden with the weight of rekindling a heritage in souls. Holy women, who volunteer of their precious time every Erev Shabbos, hand out beautiful candle packets that include two candles, the candle lighting times, the brachos for lighting, and a short Torah portion summary for that week's parashah to all passersby. Every candle packet that exchanges hands brings another beacon of light into the world. And while candle packages may not seem so significant, their impact says otherwise:
The dad who commits to keeping his laptop off on Shabbos.
The mom who promises to light candles of her own.
The family who sits down to a meal together, something they hadn't done in years.
The college student who refuses to attend Friday night parties.
The band member who won't play at the Saturday concert.
Want to help Likras spread the light? Every dollar goes toward the purchase of these packages... and igniting souls.
IGNITE THE JEWISH SPARK PARTNER WITH LIKRAS SPREAD THE LIGHT
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 Congregation M, 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 Congregation T, 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 Tzedek S 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
Shearith Israel Congregation T, W, F
Shomrei Emunah Congregation S
Suburban Orthodox Congregation Toras Chaim S
The Adas: Chofetz Chaim Adas Bnei Israel S
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 Congregation S
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 Tzedek S
Kehillas Meor HaTorah S
Ohr Yisroel S
Pikesville Jewish Congregation S
Shearith Israel Congregation S
Shomrei Emunah Congregation S-F
The Shul at the Lubavitch Center S
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 Hakodesh S
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 Congregation S
Moses Montefiore Anshe Emunah S
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
The Metzora, a leper, is numbered among a group of select individuals whose suffering is deemed by the sages of the Talmud as being equivalent to death.
Is it the pain he must endure, or perhaps the shame he must bear, that makes it a fate that rival’s death?
There are those who suggest that it is the painful isolation from society that makes this malady so torturous.
בשי דדב — He shall dwell in isolation;— הנחמל ץוחמ outside the camp shall be, ובשומ — his dwelling. (ומ גי ארקיו)
Solitary confinement is indeed one of the most notorious methods of torture that often lead prisoners to commit suicide as a better alternative.
Truth be told though, the only cities that a leper must distance himself from are those which were surrounded by walls yet from the days of Yehoshua. The Mishna teaches that the המוח תופקומה תוריע — Walled Cities, have a status of sanctity that distinguishes them from other cities in Israel, that require a leper to be expelled solely from these walled entities. (ז א םילכ)
So, it wasn’t so lonely after all as the leper could clearly frequent and roam freely between the many open-walled towns that were scattered throughout the land.
How then should we understand his being categorized as a 'דדב', an isolated soul, when there were still many possible social interactions available to him?
When Miriam was afflicted with tzara’as — leprosy, after having falsely slandered her brother Moshe, Aharon appeals for Moshe’s intervention by exclaiming, “let her not be like a corpse…” The Sifrei derives from this referencing her leprous state in terms of being corpselike, that a leper is like a corpse, just as a corpse transmits impurity upon entering a tent (to the people or vessels within it), so too a Metzora transmits impurity upon entry.
There is one difference between the two however, in that a leper only imparts defilement if he stops to sit or stand, if he is merely passing through everything remains untainted. This is derived from the emphasis in the earlier quoted verse of 'ובשומ', literally his ‘station’, implying a fixed state.
Is this equation emphasizing some fundamental alignment between a leper and the dead or is this merely a sharing of a common method by which they both confer defilement upon others?
Why is the leper only driven from these Walled Cities? What gives these cities their special standing that requires us to rid them of these contaminated souls?
There is another law that applies exclusively to these cities. During the days when the laws of Yovel — the Jubilee year were in place, one who would sell ancestral land would regain that parcel from the buyer upon the arrival of the Yovel year. Additionally, fields could be redeemed by the seller after two years from the sale, and houses built on those open territories could be redeemed immediately. In contrast, residences in the cities that were walled from the days of Yehoshua could only be redeemed by the seller for one year’s time from the day of sale, after which if not redeemed would remain in the possession of the buyer for perpetuity and unaffected by Yovel
The great Gaon, Reb Meir Simcha of Dvinsk in his masterpiece, Mesech Chochma, explains the rationale behind this discrepancy. In ancient times these walled cities served as mighty fortification against the enemies, a place where they could find secure refuge and lead their attacks from. It was vital that the people who lived here weren’t transient. As protectors they must not only be familiar with the terrain but they would need to work together toward this critical and common goal. Imagine if people would come and go throughout the course of the fifty year cycle with all the original owners returning then to find a totally different populace, it would wreak havoc on the unity and sense of purpose that is
necessary to succeed in properly defending the country.
These walled cities embodied one of the greatest principles of our great nation, the selfless devotion and sacrifice we must have for each other.
The illustrious Chasam Sofer adds that the extra sanctity these territories contain is since these fortresses were once inhabited by the Seven Nations who previously held the land, whom we miraculously conquered through Divine Providence despite their being safely ensconced in these impregnable walled entities. These cities represent forever the special relationship we have with Almighty, who directs all the events and the minutest details of our lives consistently. (הצק
Only one who understands that connection and commits loyalty towards one’s fellow man is entitled to walk on its hallowed ground.
What compels man to slander, belittle and speak derisively of others? When a person feels slighted, insecure or inferior when observing others, the easiest way to soothe that pain is by putting them down. Were we to realize that G-d runs the world and that our mission in life is to devote ourselves to improving our relationship towards others through empathy and understanding, we would never let the utterances from our mouths create so much divisiveness.
The leper who, by evidence of his affliction, allowed his instincts to blind his consciousness of G-d’s involvement and lapsed in his responsibility to others, poisoning the atmosphere with his negative comments, must steer clear of these sacred towns that embody the very antidote to this deadly disease.
Our world was destined to exist for perpetuity if not for the conflict that developed between the force of our body and its physical instinct that blinded its intellectual soul allowing it to indulge in the ‘forbidden fruit’. With this reality a new world began where the natural unity between its components can no longer be assumed. Death is the process that breaks down the elements that might otherwise co-exist forever. Just as the soul must depart the body bringing death, so too we are exposed to the possibility of decay, whether the sloughing off of ‘dead’ cells in the uterus that brings about the menses;
the unfulfilled quest of seed to bring life; the collapse of healthy flesh that is tzara’as. These are all part of the world of ‘death’ and disunity that brings about a common dysfunction called tumah, impurity. (גכ ו םיטפוש םיבלמ)
It is not the pain of isolation that is equated with death but rather the arrogant isolation of one’s own selfish interests that impede one from sensing G-d and prevent one from being attuned with sensitivity to others. This divide from G-d and one’s fellow man initiates just another one of the processes of death. This stingy disconnect from the ‘soul’ of our people and our connection to G-d, brings the scent of death to all whom one encounters.
It is precisely at that moment, when one asserts one’s 'ובשומ' — ‘station’ and position in life that is tainted with a poisonous ‘attitude’, that ‘death walks in the door’!
Regardless of how one celebrates Israel’s Day of Independence, one must marvel at the sacrifices so many of our brothers and sisters have made to ensure the safety of G-d’s beloved nation. We stand in awe of the Divine Providence that has displayed itself yet from its inception and throughout the many wars and acts of terrorism our land has been exposed to. How much more so has this been evident during this past year and a half.
We are one nation and collectively we must each assume our appropriate roles. We must continue to assert our consciousness of G-d’s mastery of events, and His benevolence. We must admire the soldiers and security forces who make the ultimate sacrifice daily by dedicating themselves selflessly to our people.
We must implement these ideas both on a national and personal level. If we do, we will bring about a world of harmony that reflects the perfect unity of the Almighty, ridding our world from divisiveness and the deathly effects it brings in its wake.
When we depend on G-d alone and emulate that divine quality by letting others know they can depend on us too, we will bring about the ultimate redemption speedily in our days
Our ‘lives’ are dependent on it!
Am Yisrael Chai!
You may reach the author at: Ravzt@ ohelmoshebaltimore.com
Following the cosmic structure of creation, where man was created after the animals, the Torah highlights the laws of childbirth after its previous discussion of animals (last week’s parshah). The Torah discusses the laws of defilement associated with human beings, including childbirth and the tzaraas affliction, which was manifested on human skin, garments, and homes.
Inspiration Everywhere
“History does not give rise to hope; hope gives rise to history ”
Rabbi Lord J. Sacks zt”l
T h e n u m e r i c a l v a l u e o f א מ ט א מ ט i s
1 0 0 , t h e s a m e a s
y o u r s e l f
C o n n e c t i n g w i t h t h e " q u i c k v o r t , "
w h e n a p e r s o
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.
He can be reached at 443-938-0822 or oristrum@torahsparks.com
m i d s t
s e t ba c k
T h e Y e t z e r H a r a ( s e e L i k k u t e i M o h a r a n
1 , a n d M e s i l a s Y e s h a r i m 3 ) t r i e s t o
c o v e r u p i m pu r i t y a n d e v i l i n s i d e o f
g o o d
H e t r i e s t o m a k e u s be l i e v e t h a t w h a t
w e a r e d o i n g i s g r e a t a n d w o n d e r f u l ,
w h e n i n a c t u a l i t y , w e a r e s i n n i n g a n d
e x pe r i e n c i n g a s e t ba c k
T h e T o r a h t e l l s a pe r s o n w h o i s e n v e l o pe d i n s i n t o c a l l o u t , " I a m i m pu r e . I a m i m pu r e . " P e r h a ps ,
be c a u s e k n o w l e d g e o f t h e ba d -
k n o w i n g t h a t w h a t y o u a r e d o i n g i s
n o t g o o d - i s a c r u c i a l s t e p i n h o n e s t l y
be i n g a bl e t o l e a v e i t s g r a s p
W h e n w e k n o w w h e r e w e a r e h o l d i n g , w e c a n m o v e o n !
The Rebbe MiKoznitz, in his Sefer Avodas Yisroel, says something fascinating pertaining to exile:
The lengthiness of exile (galus) and the fact that we don't know when Moshiach is coming, is what will enable us to feel so much joy and happiness when the geulah finally occurs!
May it be soon. Amen!
While the Parshios of Tazria/Metzora deal primarily with laws pertaining to Tzaraas, the physical ailment caused by speaking gossip, the Parsha begins with a discussion of the laws of childbirth.
What is the connection between these two topics? Why does childbirth proceed the laws of Tzaraas?
H a v e a h o l y S h a bbo s !
Scan the QR code to view Torah classes from R’ Ori Strum on Torah Anytime!
“What do you mean the border fence is gone?” the officer almost yelled into the telephone. “I want you to be more specific. Where is the hole? Is the upper part torn up? Or has the fence been cut down near the ground?”
The patrol leader reiterated his story calmly, as if he were talking to an idiot.
“We received a report that one of the fence’s touch sensors had gone off. We asked the people at the CCTV tower to scan the area and tell us if everything’s alright. They said it was, but we came over to have a look – just to play it safe. We saw that a twenty-meter [just over sixty-five feet] section of the Gaza Border Fence had completely disappeared: gone top-to-bottom; poles, wires, and all.”
The officer promptly started yelling at everyone within earshot to scram. Nightclothed soldiers stumbled out of the lounge in their flip flop-covered feet, cursing Hamas for interrupting the Champions League match they had been busy watching – and just minutes after one team had scored a tremendous goal, leaving the viewers hungry for more!
The last time Hamas had blasted such a large hole in the border fence had been on October 7, 2023. A few minutes later, the attackers had reached the small border-side base we were now quartered in. Almost a dozen soldiers had been killed, and the rest found themselves besieged in the dining hall, as Hamas terrorists over-
BY dA n Schw A rtz
ran the nearby kibbutzim that the base was supposed to protect, butchering and abducting their now-defenseless inhabitants. While the physical traces of the battle had all been cleaned up months ago, the scars remained. The border towns remained eerily empty. Some of their residents were dead, a few were still held hostage in Gaza, and most of the rest could not bring themselves to return to their old homes.
We had met multiple survivors during our two-month stint on base.
There was that civilian who kept wandering into the restricted zone by the border. He would climb one of the steep defensive firing positions and look intently into Gaza, as if he expected to find some precious lost object hidden among the empty fields and damaged buildings. Or the tall, redheaded veteran who returned to bless “HaGomel” at our mess hall, where he had nearly lost his life some sixteen months earlier. Then there was our jeep driver, a young conscript who had spent his whole military career in the district – whose manner was too grave for a twenty-yearold. He should have been there on October 7, but he had happened to exchange shifts with a friend – and now carried the burden of knowing that he was alive because his friend was dead.
We all thought of those stories as we rushed to put on our uniform, grab our gear, and head to our bat-
tle stations. We didn’t know what was coming, but at least this time we would be ready for it. Within minutes, the emergency response team was roaring towards the border in its huge, armored vehicle. Its backup squad was climbing into its Humvee, ready to depart at a moment’s notice. Additional teams were forming by the minute. Officers and men converged on the operations room, waiting for the latest news.
The news, once it came, was underwhelming. A review of the CCTV footage showed that one of the IDF’s own huge, armored D-9 bulldozers was the culprit. The video showed it driving along the road that ran parallel to the border fence, before it suddenly veered off, tore up a section of the fence, and then continued on its way. Further research demonstrated that the dozer had veered off just as Real Madrid had scored its goal in the Champions League match. The mystery had been solved. The driver of the D-9 had clearly been watching the match on his phone and had gotten so excited by the goal that had temporarily lost control of his vehicle. Our patrol soon ran into the culprit, still trailing a massive tangle of metal poles and barbed wire, and still completely oblivious of the massive damage he had done.
So that was that. We would have been livid, only the situation was way too comical. One soldier muttered something about the army being such a joke, that our surviving despite it must be proof
that Hashem is watching over us. One sergeant urged us, with a twinkle in his eye, to look at things from the other side’s perspective:
“Now imagine you are the Hamas guy who is watching this whole clown show. You are probably thinking that the IDF is planning some massive attack and has punched a hole in the fence so that tons of tanks could rumble through as easily as possible. Because there is absolutely no way the Jews would be dumb enough to punch a whacking big hole in their own multi-billion-dollar fence for no reason at all, right? Right?!”
The recital was greeted with a ripple of laughter. Then, having made the most of our sole exciting moment, we all relapsed into the morose lethargy that had characterized our tour of duty. At least since the ceasefire came into effect.
The first two weeks of my unit’s tour, before the ceasefire, were meaningful. And at least somewhat interesting. They involved multiple raids into Gaza, including one mega-operation, on the very eve of the ceasefire, where a soldier’s body had been recovered. That soldier had been killed back in the 2014 war, and, ten years later, his family finally got closure.
Then came the ceasefire. We were reduced to patrolling the Israeli side of the border, as well as a half-mile exclusion zone on the other side. Whenever a Gazan
approached the exclusion zone, our patrol would race up to one of the tall earth mounds that formed our firing positions and shoot off a couple of warning rounds. But we were powerless to intervene with what went on beyond that half-mile line. We watched as Hamas set up a network of spy cameras just beyond our range, and as gangs of men planted IEDs – improvised explosive devices that threatened to blow us to bits if we ever passed that way again. A mile further back, in the city of Khan Younis, armed Hamas gunmen paraded the streets triumphantly, demonstrating to the whole world that they were still very much in charge.
During the first couple of weeks, we would still watch angrily as Hamas came up with new, creative ways to humiliate and terrorize its hostages before finally releasing them – and then we would promptly celebrate as soon as the newly-freed Israelis would cross the border. But our anger and disgust were soon dulled – we realized that there was no point in getting all worked up over something we could not control. Until that one time it became personal.
Hamas had returned the bodies of four of its victims a few hours earlier, and the men in my unit could not stop texting about it. When I opened our group WhatsApp chat, I saw a couple of pictures, followed by a series of unprintable comments. There was something familiar about those pictures. Then it suddenly hit me. I recognized the place where Hamas had held its gruesome ceremony. We had been there on an earlier tour of duty, just thirteen months ago. In fact, we had even spent one night digging up the fringes of a nearby cemetery, because Intelligence said that the bodies of some murdered hostages had probably been buried there. Our nocturnal mission had failed, but Intelligence had probably been right. The four bodies that Hamas had just returned were probably buried there the whole time.
Now, more than a year later, those unnamed victims we had searched for suddenly had names, faces, and families. Those families had gone through a year of hell, not knowing whether their loved ones were alive or dead. A little bit of extra digging and luck could have saved them all that anguish. It could have saved the whole country from paying an exorbitant price to recover those bodies, and it would have spared us all a gruesome and humiliating Hamas ceremony.
Thinking of that first wartime tour, that ended just a few days after the failed search for the bodies, necessarily left us
feeling a bit cheated. Back then, we had felt that we were doing something useful. We had defended the Lebanese border during those early, anxious days, when the whole country was expecting Hezbollah to launch a devastating cross-border attack. We had then spent months fighting Hamas in Gaza City and Khan Younis. It was by no means a pleasant experience, but it had felt meaningful. Now, we were doing nothing. And, even worse, we knew it.
True, we did cross the border every so often to guard gangs of sappers as they uncovered and destroyed Hamas tunnels. That mission was very important, on paper. But the very fact that the army had not bothered destroying those tunnels for the first fifteen months of the war made us feel that maybe those operations did not really matter after all.
To us, that sense of meaning was all-important. After all, we were no bunch of conscripts, who had nothing better to do than just wait for their term of service to expire.
We were reservists – civilians with military training who were occasionally called up for tours of duty. Going on tour meant leaving our homes, spouses, and children. It meant taking a break from our jobs, perhaps in the middle of an intense, high-stakes project. It meant quitting university two weeks before crucial exams. And we wanted to know that we were not making all those sacrifices for nothing.
Even at the best of times, reserve duty involves striking a delicate balance between one’s duty to his family, workplace, and country. And the system takes that into account. Yes, reserve duty is nominally mandatory – but in practice, it is about as obligatory as jury duty in the U.S. It is generally enough to merely tell your commander that you can’t make it, for whatever reason. The officer might argue or try to guilt you into coming, but
at the end of the day, he knows that you are the best judge of your own situation, and so he’d let you make the final call.
In our case, that reserve duty/life balance had been shattered long ago. We had spent almost half of the past sixteen months under arms. We had patrolled the Lebanese border, fought in Gaza, and raided terrorists’ homes in Samaria. And now we were exhausted and sick of it all.
Many of us felt that our lives were almost unravelling. One sergeant complained that reserve duty was putting an unbearable strain on his marriage. If the army called him up for another tour of duty, he probably would not have a home to return to by the time it were over.
One of my companions, a self-employed mortgage broker, kept his business afloat by working remotely during his off-duty hours. It was exhausting, both physically and mentally. But somehow, he made it work.
I was one of the lucky ones. As a young, unmarried student, I had no family or workplace obligations to worry about. But my whole academic schedule was thrown off course. I tried attending lectures on Zoom, but my internet connection was too inconsistent. I tried studying whenever I had some time off, but I was too tired and brain-dead to make any progress. Still, I knew that a couple of months of intense studying would be enough for me to bounce back.
But the less fortunate of my companions took heavy, irreversible hits. One young officer reckoned that reserve duty had cost his family business some six figures in missed income and growth opportunities. And that was after he was able to mitigate his losses by taking extra leave and working remotely!
I asked him why he did not just skip this tour of duty and rejoin the unit next time. His answer fascinated and surprised me.
“I am inspired by the people around
me. Every one of us has a valid reason for not showing up, and yet we are all here,” he said. “Wherever you turn, you see people who gave up a lot to be here. There’s Benny, the expat who took a couple of weeks off work and flew over from France to serve. There’s Nathan, who smashed his leg in a workplace accident a few months ago and still does his rehab exercises when off duty. Refael, whose wife let him rejoin us just after she gave birth. And then you have all those guys who are in their forties, and even fifties. They could retire from duty, but they choose to show up anyway – on the grounds that, even though the army might exempt them, their conscience would not.
“At the end of the day,” he added, “it is all about what you prioritize. If you put yourself first, you would find a way to stay at home. But if you put Am Yisrael first, you’d do your best to show up – even if you could only afford to join the unit for a few days here or there.”
The more I thought about it, the more I realized that, at least to a certain extent, we all shared his perspective. Each of us knew that the people around him were doing their best. Some of us might be able to come for the full three months of the tour, others for a few days only; and that was okay. Each man knew that he couldn’t judge his companion’s contribution, only appreciate it.
But just as we appreciated each other’s sacrifices, we expected the IDF to appreciate ours. If we were going to leave everything behind to fight and potentially die for our country, we demanded that the military give us everything we needed to do our job as efficiently and safely as possible. And sadly, we all felt that was not the case.
After two frustrating months, we finally decided to take the matter up with the lieutenant colonel who commanded our battalion. The officer listened patiently as, one by one, each soldier poured forth his grievances. One man complained that he could not get Logistics to replace his old, falling-apart boots. Others complained that we were so badly equipped, they had to go into Gaza with rifles that lacked modern scopes. The officer listened carefully and then replied sadly that he would try to alleviate the situation, but there was little he could do about it.
“As far as the IDF is concerned” he pointed out, “I command a battalion of tanks. Never mind the fact that I am in charge of all you infantrymen, too. So,
when it comes to getting gear that is infantry-specific, I am at the bottom of the military pecking order.”
It made sense. After all, the war had put a terrible strain on military logistics. Demand for armaments far outpaced the supplies, and so the quartermasters had to be extremely selective about what gear they allocated to which unit. And why would an army quartermaster hand out dozens of rifle scopes on an armored battalion to be wasted on tank crews who barely used their rifles anyway?
But it was still extremely frustrating. I shot out at the battalion commander: “This is deeply unserious. I had just flown over from the States for this tour of duty. Had I known the situation was so bad, I would’ve bought a dozen scopes back there and brought them over with me.”
I knew that my outburst was pointless and unfair. The lieutenant colonel was doing his best, after all.
But before that officer had a chance to answer, a tired-looking junior officer spoke up: “We already tried importing gear. Customs seized it all. The only way is to work with authorized importers, and they are expensive.”
The battalion commander went on to explain that our little infantry company wasn’t the only victim of the logistical nightmare that characterized the wartime IDF.
“You know, a good many of my tanks aren’t any good either. And the only way to get anything fixed is to tell the higher-ups that the situation is so bad that we cannot carry out the missions they task us with. Otherwise, they just tell us to make do with what we’ve got.”
He added that he weighs each mission’s importance against the risk of embarking on it in our under-equipped state. Occasionally, he digs his heels in and refuses to go unless some critical issue is fixed, but at the end of the day, we are here to protect Israel, not quarrel with Logistics over defective gear.
At the time, we grudgingly accepted his reasoning. But the gear issues kept piling up. And even when Logistics tried to help, it only seemed to make things worse. Our Negev machine gunners demanded specialized vests that would allow them to balance the weight of all the copious ammo they had to carry, and our platoon sergeants had spent days begging and cajoling until Logistics agreed to send a shipment of the coveted gear. But when the vests finally arrived, the gunners took one disgusted look and declared that their old uncomfortable, fraying vests were actually good enough,
thank you very much.
It seemed that one of those Logistics officers took the gunners’ rejection of his vests personally – because, when we requested to swap out our old rucksacks, Logistics agreed, but with one condition: we would have to accept the replacement rucksacks, whatever the quality. And Logistics positively refused to guarantee that those new, replacement rucksacks would be any better than our twentyyear-old, decaying ones.
The platoon sergeant, who had been tasked with the thankless job of negotiating with Logistics on our behalf, was quick to share his disgust with us.
“I vote,” he suggested bitterly, in between puffs of his e-cigarette, “I vote that we take all those useless, smelly, falling-apart rucksacks that this sorry, good-for-nothing excuse of a battalion got us and pile them up right in the middle of the parade ground. And then burn the lot. Or we could all sign a petition, demanding to be transferred to another unit.”
His proposal seemed crazy at first,
few months, before they call us up again, figuring things out. We’ll find a way to get what we need by the next time.”
We nodded our heads in gloomy agreement. We all knew he was right but wished he were not. Deep inside, we all wanted to vent our pent-up frustration.
Our mixed feelings continued right up to the very end. Israel finally resumed largescale operations in Gaza just as our tour was ending. We debriefed and then disbanded a couple of weeks later without firing a shot.
Had that frustrating tour been a complete waste of time? Many of us were not willing to argue against that idea. But on the other hand, every one of us knew that he would be back next time.
But why?
As is often the case, it took an outsider to put our feelings into words.
It was during one of our nights off that Rabbi Menachem Kalmanzon, one
“If you put yourself first, you would find a way to stay at home. But if you put Am Yisrael first, you’d do your best to show up.”
but the logic behind it was sound. The sergeant explained that some sort of blowup was inevitable, and it was up to us to decide when we wanted it. We could wait for a soldier to twist his ankle while scrambling through the ruins of Gaza in his poorly shod feet, for the straps of a decaying rucksack to snap at the worst possible moment, or for a machine-gunner to throw his back as he charges the enemy because of a bad vest. Or we could force a crisis now. It would be unpleasant, but it would force the higher-ups to fix the problem now, before we go back to fight.
We listened without saying a word. There was no arguing with the sergeant’s logic, but we felt deeply uncomfortable with his proposal. Finally, it was the sergeant who broke the silence.
“It’s no good,” he said quietly. “You cannot bring yourself to cause trouble and, to be honest, neither can I. We came here to do our duty, not fight the system. Besides, our tour ends in a few weeks anyhow. We’ll just spend the next
there was always the risk of them being hit by friendly fire. But the Kalmanzons went in anyway.
After hours of rescuing terrified, halfcrazed locals, the Kalmanzons realized that they were too exhausted to continue. But then a frantic civilian called, begging that they go back in one final time to rescue a stranded relative. And so, with Menachem navigating, Elchanan drove back in. They rescued the civilian, but the calls kept coming. And the worn-out rescuers, every bit as scared as the people whom they were going to rescue, kept driving back into the killing zone despite their better judgement. After sixteen hours and a hundred rescued civilians, the law of numbers finally caught up with them. Elchanan was gunned down by a waiting terrorist, and Menachem was badly wounded.
My mates and I listened in awed silence. I wanted to ask the obvious question but knew I had no right too. It was up to Menachem to decide what he wanted to share.
As if he could read my thoughts, Menachem went on to answer my unasked question: did he regret going back into Be’eri for that final, tragic time?
The answer was no. True, from a narrow gain/loss perspective, that ride had been both tragic and pointless. Elchanan had been killed, Menachem had been wounded, and the poor civilian whom they had set out to rescue had remained trapped at home.
But Menachem saw the bigger picture.
of the civilian heroes of October 7, came to share his story with us.
He told us how Elchanan, his older brother, along with his nephew and himself, decided to head down south as soon as they heard the news of Hamas’ attack. They had no idea what they were going to do, but they felt they needed to do something. “Something” involved sneaking past a roadblock the army had thrown up to cordon off the fighting zone, recovering a rifle from a wounded soldier, and finally arriving at the border-side Kibbutz Be’eri, just as IDF commandos were fighting their way through its streets. They could not help with the fighting, so they begged the local commander to lend them an armored vehicle. Their idea was to drive into the fighting zone and try to rescue civilians who might still be trapped in there. The commander warned them against it. It was too risky, he said. If they ran into trouble, they would be on their own. He would not be able to send any soldiers to pull them out. Besides,
“Of course, I miss my brother dearly. But I miss him so much because of the special man he was. Because no matter how scared and exhausted we all were, he decided to keep going in. Wishing we had stopped earlier means wishing that my brother were not the man he was.”
As I looked around me, I saw that my mates were clearly all thinking the same thing. Rabbi Menachem was right. We could not control the wider world, and so we should not measure our actions by their objective impact on the world around us.
What had our long, frustrating tour of duty achieved? Absolutely nothing. But it still mattered. Because it reflected a willingness to sacrifice, to put Am Yisrael first. And, without that selfless mindset, the Jewish people would not have been able to maintain a century and a half of struggle for the land of Israel. Perhaps more importantly, that mindset is, and has always been, a critical part of who we are as a People.
And thank G-d for that.
I’m getting older, and nobody cares.
I’ve been getting older for a while now, but I haven’t said anything, because I was kind of hoping it would go away. But it hasn’t, so I might as well accept it.
Nobody really thinks of themselves as old. Even people who are clearly old. It’s kind of like driving, where everyone going slower than you is an idiot, and everyone going faster than you is a meshugeneh. But you’re neither. Even if you’re the fastest person on the road, you’re not thinking, “Okay, I guess I’m fast.” You’re thinking, “Everyone is an idiot.”
Also, age doesn’t really hit you at once. Age creeps up on you slowly (the same way age drives) and suddenly you look around one day and say, “Wow! I guess I’m old!”
Today is that day.
Okay, so I’m not that old. I’m definitely past the age where fans meet me and go, “Oh, I thought you’d be older.” But I’m not old enough to go on a diatribe about you youngsters and your emojis and your internets and how in my day, we didn’t HAVE Pesachdikke streimel cookies.
Actually, I do do that last thing. I did it like 3 months ago.
But I did notice that I’ve been slowly collecting a lot of the traits that I’ve always associated with old people.
Some things you already know about. For example, my metabolism has slowed down tremendously since I was a kid. Frequent readers already know that, because every couple of weeks I write about my futile attempts to lose weight, because the thing about dieting is that it’s all you talk about. And yes, the people around you get annoyed, but what else are you going to talk about? You’re starving! No one ever goes over to those starving children in
Africa and says, “Food food food. Is that all you ever talk about? There are children not in the mood of finishing things in America!”
Another thing that frequent readers already know about is my back issues. I have a herniated disc, which, even though it’s not currently as bad as it was, it’s never totally out of my mind. But apparently, it’s age-related, at least somewhat. I thought it was about the fact that I have a job that requires me to sit in one place, leaning forward and staring in the same direction for several hours a day. Mankind wasn’t really built to do that. For thousands of years, nobody had a job where they had to stare at a screen all day, except maybe beekeepers. And even beekeepers had occasional exercise in the form of running.
But then I read that 80-something percent of the population has back problems, and every single one of these people keeps talking to me about them. They’re all like, “Yeah, when I was 36, I had back problems, so what I did was I learned how to bend in half backwards.” And 36 is not a number I’m making up as an example here. That’s the number they all use – 36. And all I could think is, “Wait. I’m 36.” So apparently it’s an age thing. No one told me this when I first turned 36.
“Yeah, 36th year. That’s back problems. Good luck with that.”
I’ve also been going to the doctor more often. I started out going just once, but now the doctor is obsessed with me. He keeps telling me to come back.
My entire twenties, I barely went to the doctor, and I did fine. But when I finally started going for my back, the doctor who saw me asked, “Who’s your PCP?” And I said, “I don’t know. You, I guess.” And he said, “Wait. You haven’t been to a doctor?” So his practice assigned me a doctor, who has, ever since then, been making me come back about once a month. Like there’s a cer-
By Mordechai Schmutter
tain amount of times in your life you have to go to a doctor, and he’s trying to catch me up.
Another age thing that I’ve noticed is that I’ve been making more and more dad jokes around the house. Just ask my kids – Hungry, Starving, Bored, and Serious. And my wife, Not Amused
And then there are smaller things that I do differently. For example, I find that lately I’ve been making the words on my computer screen bigger. My other option, I guess, is to lean farther forward, which is not good for my back.
I’ve also suddenly noticed that I’ve been drinking a lot of hot tea and carrying hard candies.
Sure, I have reasons. At the moment, I have a cough, and to the little kid still living somewhere inside me, a cough is a medical excuse to eat candy. And the tea started as a throat thing too, but now I drink it because it’s a way to get caffeine after pareve suppers when you’re trying to cut down on soda.
See, everything we old people do is not for just one reason, but for a bunch of reasons that accumulate over the years, because we’ve had a lot of years, and when you tell us it’s just because we’re old, we don’t want to get into a whole long explanation, because we don’t have the time for it. Because we’re old. By the time we finish explaining this to you, we’ll both be old, and then you’ll understand it on your own. So why bother?
Another thing I noticed is that, as I get older, my stories get longer.
How so? Find out in Part 2.
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.
By Avi Heiligman
Military parachutists, also called paratroopers, are trained to insert directly on the battlefield or behind enemy lines. They are usually lightly armed and rely on speed, surprise and elite fighting skills and tactics to achieve objectives that would be much more difficult for regular infantry. Currently, Israel has several paratrooper units including the elite 35 th Paratroopers Brigade and at least three reserve paratrooper brigades. Their missions vary and have been an integral part of the IDF since their inception.
Paratroopers from Eretz Yisrael date back to World War II. A group of 37 soldiers known as the Yishuv Paratroopers went through rigorous training organized by the Hagana with permission from the British government. In 1944, twenty-six of these volunteers were dropped into Nazi-occupied Europe. Yoel Palgi was one of these paratroopers who parachuted into Croatia and crossed over into Hungary several days later. Despite the danger (seven Yishuv Paratroopers were executed after being caught by the Nazis), Palgi attempted to rescue Jews but was caught and turned over to the Gestapo. He survived brutal interrogations and managed to escape by jump -
ing from a train while being transferred. Soon, he linked up with members of an underground Jewish Zionist network after making his way to Budapest. The Soviets eventually liberated Budapest, and Palgi continued his efforts to help as many Jews as possible.
Palgi returned to Eretz Yisrael and went on a trip to recruit pilots for the
talion and early on was heavily involved in retaliatory operations.
The Paratroopers Brigade was formed when Unit 101 and the 890 th Battalion merged in 1955. These Special Forces units were created in the aftermath of the Israeli War of Independence as a response to the thousands of Arab attacks on Jews. The first commander of
The first commander of the Paratroopers Brigade was seasoned commando and future prime minister Ariel Sharon.
new Israeli Air Force. During the Israeli War of Independence, he was assigned by Prime Minister David Ben Gurion to establish the IDF’s first paratrooper unit. Their base was set up on Mount Carmel, and by the end of the war, there were 250 officers and enlisted soldiers in the unit.
The 890 th Battalion was established in 1950 as the IDF’s first paratrooper bat-
the Paratroopers Brigade was seasoned commando and future prime minister Ariel Sharon. One of their first operations took place in October 1956 and became known as the Battle of the Mitla Pass. Close to 400 paratroopers were dropped east of the pass but soon fell into an Egyptian ambush. Thirty-eight paratroopers were killed in the taking
of the Mitla Pass, and Sharon received heavy criticism for sending the paratroopers into the pass altogether.
The drop at Mitla Pass, part of Operation Kadesh, was the first combat drop in IDF history, with the second one coming shortly thereafter. Along with the paratroopers was Hannah Yaffe who was a medic with the surgical unit. She was involved in the evacuation of the 120 wounded paratroopers back to the Israeli airbase as she was responsible for the treatment of the wounded before and during transport. Shortly thereafter, she was asked by one of the battalion’s commanders, Motta Gur, to drop with the paratroopers as they were about to attack an Egyptian airbase. Gur was wounded during the combat drop, and Yaffe treated him on the battlefield. Yaffe was only woman in IDF history to be awarded parachute wings on a red background, indicating that she made a combat jump.
It was during the Six Day War in 1967 that the famous photo was taken of the paratroopers after they had captured the Kotel. Under the command of Motta Gur, they were given the goahead on June 7 from Minister of Defense Moshe Dayan to go into the Old
City with the purpose of reaching the Western Wall. It wasn’t smooth sailing as the paratroopers took a wrong turn and fell into a Jordanian ambush. Finally, the paratroopers broke through the Lion’s Gate, made their way through the narrow streets and soon were on the Temple Mount. Capturing the Old City came at a heavy price. Ninety-eight paratroopers were killed in the battle.
In addition to the fighting in Jerusalem, paratroopers were involved in the
fighting on the other fronts. Decorated paratrooper Aharon Davidi was called on to lead the 35 th Paratrooper Brigade during the Six Day War when the previous commander was wounded. Within a few hours of action in the Sinai, the unit was on the banks of the Suez Canal, the first Israeli unit to reach the vital waterway. Reconnaissance paratroopers destroyed dozens of T-55 tanks as they were coming off a freighter in the Alexandria harbor.
These early pioneers set the stage early on for paratroopers that have participated in almost every conflict and battle in Israel’s history. These conflicts included participating in the raid on Entebbe in the rescue of 102 hostages from Palestinian terrorists. The paratroopers were tasked with supporting the main force of commandos by securing the civilian airfield, protecting the aircraft, and clearing the runway.
Recently, the Paratrooper Brigade
was heavily involved in both the war in Gaza and Lebanon. Today, the paratroopers are involved in a wide array of missions that range from counterterrorism to humanitarian aid.
Avi Heiligman is a weekly contributor to The Jewish Home. He welcomes your comments and suggestions for future columns and can be reached at aviheiligman@gmail.com.
HBy Rabbi Shraga Freedman
ere’s a remarkable story I heard from Rabbi Shlomo Landau—one that unfolded just before Pesach.
Rabbi Yehuda Freilich of Beit Shemesh was in Tel Aviv for work and planned to return home at day’s end. But just as he was leaving, he received a message: one last meeting—in Yerushalayim.
He agreed and headed to the train station, suddenly realizing he hadn’t eaten all day. Starving, he found a small mehadrin falafel shop, asked them to pack it up, washed, and boarded the train, planning to eat during the ride.
The train, however, was packed.
Eventually, he found a small open corner and, though he normally avoids eating in public, hunger won out. Sitting down, he unwrapped his falafel. Across from him sat two men—an older man in his 60s and a younger man in his 30s. The younger one glanced at him with what felt like disapproval, but Rabbi Freilich ignored it.
A minute later, the older man smiled warmly and said, “Beteavon— bon appétit.”
Rabbi Freilich smiled back. “Toda! If I had realized such a sweet guy was sitting across from me, I would’ve bought two falafels—one for me and one for you.”
The older man looked surprised. “B’emet?” he said, touched.
Rabbi Freilich added, “The toppings came in a separate little ziplock—pickles, peppers, all the extras. Here, take them. We’ll share the meal. I’m good with the falafel alone.”
The man became misty-eyed. “That’s so kind of you. Thank you.”
As the train rolled on, they chatted warmly—like old friends. Then, just before arriving in Yerushalayim, the younger man leaned over.
“You need to know something,” the man said quietly. “This train is full of secular Jews—we’re all going to Yerushalayim to protest against the religious. Me and my father—we were, too. But we’ve never spoken to a chareidi Jew before. After talking to you… we’re not protesting. We’re going home.”
We often underestimate the power of a simple smile, a kind word, or an unguarded moment of connection. But when we interact with respect and warmth, without judgment, it can be life changing.
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 resources
Living Kiddush Hashem was founded with the goal of imbuing every Jew with a powerful sense of mission — the mission to be mekadeish Sheim Shamayim in his or her own unique way. We strive to accomplish this by raising awareness of the paramount importance of the mitzvah of Kiddush Hashem and its centrality in everything we do.
Thx = I am hip (or too lazy to write the whole word… and some of the letters on my keyboard seem to be missing)
Thanks = You are generically important to me
Thanks! = I hope the exclamation point means as much to you as it does to me
Many thanks = Zero thanks
Thank you = I am furious with you
Regards = I really couldn’t care less
Kind regards = I really couldn’t care less, but this is my way of appearing like I could
KR = I couldn’t even be bothered to write the full words, that’s how kind my regards are
Sincerely = Insincerely
Cheers = Look how normal I am
Bye = Go jump in a lake
Best wishes for continued success = I would rather be writing Hallmark cards
Take it easy = You’ll never see me again
Enjoy the rest of your day = Hopefully it’s going better than mine
Have a blessed day = I am so spiritual
Adios = I know one word of Spanish, but I hope you think I am bi-lingual
TTYL = OMG, we have to go for lattes sometime soon
Respectfully = Please don’t ever ask me if I really respect you
Enjoy your weekend = Please don’t reply to this email today; I want to get out of the office already
Thank you for your time = You really think you are the busiest person in the world, but please read this email
Looking forward to hearing from you = REPLY IMMEDIATELY
Let me know how you want me to proceed = The last time we got into this mess you were supposed to communicate with me and you didn’t
Please confirm receipt of this email = I have zero trust in you
:) = Please realize that I am a lovable little fuzzball
;) = Please realize that I am a lovable little fuzzball (but not a perfectionist)
Later = I am really not formal, so let’s deal with this “coolly”
Peace = In my next lifetime, I want to come back as a 1960’s hippie
1. Cinco de Mayo is a celebration of which national heritage?
a. Spanish
b. Brazilian
c. Mexican
d. Venezuelan
2. What is Cinco de Mayo meant to commemorate?
a. A tragic event in which 15 tons of mayonnaise sunk at sea
b. A historic battle
c. The founding of Mexico
d. A national hero
3. What does the term “Cinco de Mayo” mean in English?
a. Mayan Day
b. Celebration of May
c. The fifth of May
d. May Day
4. What is the official name of Mexico?
a. United Mexican States
b. Mexico Istacoville
c. Mexican Federation
d. Mexico
5. Which one of the following U.S. states was never part of Mexico?
a. California
b. Nevada
c. Utah
d. Arizona
e. Oregon
f. New Mexico
g. Colorado
h. Wyoming
6. Mexico’s population is:
a. 17 million
b. 35 million
c. 72 million
d. 120 million
Two Americans, Bob and Jeff, decide to go bungee jumping in a small village. They carefully set up their equipment and are all ready for their adventure.
Bob jumps, bounces at the end of the cord and flies back up by the platform. Jeff isn’t able to catch his friend, but he notices that Bob has a few cuts and scratches. Bob falls again, bounces, and comes back up. This time, he is bruised and bleeding. Again, Jeff misses
pulling Bob up.
7. What is Mexico’s national drink, tequila, made of?
a. Coconut juice
b. Agave
c. Hops
d. Corn
Answers:
C
B
C
A (Mexico has 31 states)
Wisdom Key:
6-7 correct: Great job! You deserve a non-alcoholic tequila!
3-5 correct: You are so-so –although you think that eating burritos makes you an expert on all things Mexican.
0-2 correct: You cracked on this one like a stale taco.
The third time it happens, Bob comes back pretty messed up; he’s got a couple of broken bones and is almost unconscious. Luckily, Jeff finally catches him and says, “Holy cow, what happened? Was the cord too long?”
“No,” says Bob. “The cord was fine, but the birthday party down there thinks I’m a piñata!”
I’m a big fan of this president’s economic agenda on taxes, deregulations, and border policies. It’s miraculous what he’s done. I have not been a big fan of his tarrif policies. I’m not someone who thinks that tariffs are a good economic tool. But it appears now that Trump is proving me wrong if he gets these deals.
- Former Trump economic advisor Stephen Moore on Fox News
China steals our technologies; they rip us off. We spend billions of dollars developing a new technology or a new drug, and they just copycat it and violate all of the patent laws. So there’s a lot of work to be done for China to get back in our good graces. I think Trump will get these concessions. I just don’t know if it’s going to be next week, next month, or six months from now.
- ibid.
What is not being reported by the press very often is that China is in big deep trouble economically. They cannot win a trade war with the U.S.; their economy will go into a great depression.
– ibid.
First of all, it’s kind of insulting to six million dead Jews.
- Bill Maher responding to Larry David comparing him meeting Trump for dinner to meeting with Hitler
I think the minute you play the “Hitler” card, you’ve lost the argument.
- ibid.
They’re not acting on good faith at all. They’re acting in a lawless, reckless, vicious way. And it’s not going to succeed.
- Senator Charles Schumer (D-NY) criticizing Pres. Trump who took away grant money from Harvard because of the rampant
I didn’t look too good because I didn’t feel too good.
- Astronaut Don Pettit, 70, upon touching down to Earth after spending seven months at the International Space Station
It’s time to fight everywhere and all at once. Never before in my life have I called for mass protests, for mobilization, for disruption. But I am now!
- Illinois Governor JB Pritzker (D) at a Democratic Party event in New Hampshire, using seemingly dangerous language while talking about resisting President Trump
I wrote the book on Hitler’s first 100 days. Here’s how Trump’s compare.
- Title of an article in The Forward by Peter Fritzsche…indicating that TDS is now causing even so-called Jewish publications to engage in Holocaust minimization
[Facebook founder Mark Zuckerberg, and the co-founders of Uber Travis Kalanick and Garrett Camp] are a bunch of nice Jewish boys who kind of gamed the system and, “Oh, let’s not become doctors, lawyers; I’m helping the world by putting taxis out of business.”
- Alex Soros, son of self-hating Jew George Soros, in an interview with New York Magazine
He’s taking votes away from me — I’m the mayor! Why is he in my race?
- Mayor Eric Adams unloading on Andrew Cuomo during a recent press conference
It’s almost like when you have a house somewhere and someone is trying to move in, it’s like, go find your own house.
- ibid.
”Rizz” is just being shamelessly who you are. I think that’s attractive now — not following the pack and kind of doing your own thing. We live in a doom scrolling world where we’re all trying to be what we think people want us to be, and that’s not a healthy way to live.
- A Hollywood comedian who was on “Saturday Night Live” for many years, in a recent interview
I used to be a drug addict and I was a sad person, and I felt ugly and that I needed to be covered up. So I’m just removing them [all my tattoos] and starting fresh, because that’s what I think works best for me and for my brain. When I look in the mirror, I don’t want the reminder of “Oh yeah, you were a…drug addict. Like, that’s why you have SpongeBob smoking a joint on your back.”
- ibid.
The fact that Trump rolled up in there and cleaned this stuff up, prioritizing border control, definitely is going to be perceived as a plus, whether Democrats and others like it or not.
- ESPN host and now sometimes political commentator Stephen A. Smith
There were a lot of people who were talking about, including in the Oval Office, at times, the idea of, like, the president going out and giving a speech… The idea would be to either force Netanyahu to come on board with that, or scramble Israeli politics, and see if you can trigger elections, or G-d knows what. That’s what people were saying — like, let’s just break this up ‘cause it’s not going anywhere good.
- Ilan Goldenberg, a former aide to President Joe Biden, in an interview with Israel’s Channel 13, disclosing that the Biden administration considered trying to politically take down Netanyahu
President Biden’s decline and its cover up by the people around him is a reminder that every White House is capable of deception.
- Axios reporter Alex Thompson, speaking at last weekend’s White House Correspondents Dinner, conveniently chastising his fellow mainstream media members to be honest about what’s going on in the White House now that Trump is president
So the White House Correspondents Dinner was last Saturday. The media gave themselves an award for handling Joe Biden’s decay. That’s like giving BLM an award for fighting crime.
- Greg Gutfeld
In Britian…as we speak, there are people in prison for reposting memes, tweets, social media posts, and general free speech issues. Will the Trump administration consider political asylum for British citizens prosecuted for speech?
- Former Mumford & Sons banjo player and now political podcaster at a recent White House press briefing when he was given an opportunity to ask a question, as part of the “new media”
After decades of politicians who destroyed Detroit to build up Beijing, you finally have a champion for workers in the White House. Instead of putting China first, I’m putting Michigan first and America first.
- President Trump at a Michigan rally to mark his first 100 days in office
What’s the problem over there? What’s the problem? Is that a radical left lunatic? He’s just a child. All right, get him out… Oh, I’m sorry, I’m sorry, ma’am, I thought it was a guy. I’m sorry, I said, “He” and it’s a she.
- ibid., at the rally
W E D D I N G P A C K A G E
Moderated by Jennifer Mann, LCSW of The Navidaters
I’ve been dating a guy on and off for two years. He’s great and I think we could work, but whenever we get back together, the same issues keep bothering me.
He’s sweet, cute, and well-liked by his friends but has had things coming to him his whole life and isn’t motivated when it comes to finding a job or planning things out. He has more of the mindset that will take things as they come and hope for the best. Obviously, there are things that keep me coming back to him, but the things that bother me never go away. He is very idealistic.
Do you have advice how I can get comfortable with his good qualities enough that the bad just don’t bother me?
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 Faigie Horowitz, M.S.
coaching/therapy. It’s not a matter of overlooking what you don’t like. Becoming comfortable will be a process. In this process, you will explore the differences between your natures (and the nurturing you have experienced) and both of your
tion your ability to be supportive of someone you care deeply about. You may discover that you don’t care deeply enough. You may discover that it is your nature to be a cheerleader. You may find that you don’t really respect someone who is not ambitious and driven. He may discover that he may enjoy some challenges but not being pushed into them. He may respect your initiative and drive but not for himself.
Yes, people do evolve, and both of you are probably at the beginning of your adult lives. Your natures may change over time and in response to circumstances. Growth is part of the human experience called life. However, self-awareness about one’s own strengths and weaknesses as well as respect for one another’s qualities are crucial when you are considering marriage.
Engage in the process with honesty and see if your relationship can work. There is no instant answer.
Michelle Mond
The fact that the two of you keep ending up together is not something to take lightly. There are obviously a lot of big things the two of you respect about each other. I’m sorry to say, however,
there is nothing you can do that will make his relaxed approach to the future appealing. What you are describing sounds like a personality trait, which, as you know, cannot be changed. I have known idealistic, unmotivated guys who have become wildly successful. Their positive attitude and willingness to jump into endeavors bring them good opportunities. I have also known guys like you describe, who have struggled a lot for many years due to their lack of motivation or commitment.
If you truly want to marry this guy, you are going to accept him for who he is without assuming he will change. You might also want to envision a future together where you are doing most of the breadwinning. Then, if he becomes the primary breadwinner, you will be pleasantly surprised.
There is no “good” or “bad” here. He sounds like a great guy whom you connect with and truly want to spend your life with. The question you have to ask yourself is: if he did not change a thing, could you imagine yourself ultimately
happy with him?
I would like to end with a quote from Fred Rogers which I think is very poignant and rings true to your situation.
“Love doesn’t mean a state of perfect caring. To love someone is to strive to accept that person exactly the way he or she is, right here and now – and to go on caring through joyful times and through times that may bring us pain.”― Fred Rogers
Dr. Jeffrey Galler
When I first read your letter, my initial reaction was, “This unmotivated, apathetic, chilled-out young man would be a great shidduch for her, as long as she doesn’t mind living in her mother’s basement and shopping for food in her
The Navidaters
Dating and Relationship Coaches and Therapists
Thank you for writing into our panel. Whatever bothers you now will most likely always bother you. I understand from your question that you are looking for a way to not feel the way that you do. While your question is completely understandable and common, what I feel you are essentially asking is: How do I ignore my intuition?
From my experience working in the field with wonderful, complex human beings, spouses do not tend to
become more comfortable with the qualities in the other they always disliked; rather, resentments tend to grow.
Your sweet, cute, wonderful man will most likely never change. You cannot get married to him, or anyone, hoping the other person will change. The happiest couples I have had the pleasure of working with always say the same thing: “I love him exactly as
mother’s refrigerator.”
But then, I had a very different reaction. Perhaps being overly ambitious and overly obsessed with detailed planning isn’t for everyone. (In my family, for example, we plan vacations two years ahead of time and discuss school options as soon as the embryo is visible on a sonogram.)
It’s possible that what might seem like the very negative qualities of laziness and lack of ambition are actually the very positive, admirable qualities of having an easy-going nature, being content with life, and enjoying simchas hachaim. Perhaps these qualities are what attracts you to him.
Nevertheless, before considering him as life partner material, you want to make sure you won’t be living in your mother’s basement.
So, is he educated and employable? Is there a family business that is suitable for him? Does he possess any skills that can potentially earn a living? Did he secretly win the Mega Million lottery jackpot?
Nevertheless, before considering him as life partner material, you want to make sure you won’t be living in your mother’s basement.
Please note that it is not merely a question of earning a living. You need to discern his true nature. A husband who is eternally lazy and unmotivated would be hard to live with; but, a husband who is naturally content and happy sounds like a bracha.
he is.” “I respect her for who she is.” “I feel emotionally safe and protected with him/her.”
No one can tell you what to do. Loving someone so deeply and having a connection so intense that propels you to find each other time and again, break-up after break-up, is not a love to be scoffed at or ignored.
It is easy to understand why you keep going back. However, if this bothers you today and it is part of the reason why you inevitably break up, my concern is that it will be an everlasting issue for you.
This doesn’t mean there is something wrong with you. And this doesn’t mean there is anything wrong with your beloved. Not seeing eye-to-eye on this
issue is a problem.
I don’t think you need help to work through your concern because your concern is so valid. If you’d like to address this with a professional, present the idea of couples therapy to your guy. See how he takes to your concerns. Is he open or is he dismissive? If he is dismissive, that is another (and possibly bigger) issue. If he’s open, you may have some wiggle room. But a person doesn’t change his desire for you unless he desires you so badly that he is willing to do the work for you. And even then it is hard!
You deserve to feel good about your life and your future husband’s work ethic.
Sincerely, Jennifer
Jennifer Mann, LCSW is a licensed psychotherapist and certified trauma healing life coach, as well as a dating and relationship coach working with individuals, couples, and families in private practice at 123 Maple Avenue in Cedarhurst, NY. To set up a consultation or to ask questions, please call 718-908-0512. Visit www.thenavidaters.com for more information. If you would like to submit a dating or relationship question to the panel anonymously, please email JenniferMannLCSW@gmail.com. You can follow The Navidaters on FB and Instagram for
By Rabbi Azriel Hauptman
that might fit this stereotype. However, there are plenty of people who have good jobs, engage with the world, and put on a smile in social situations, and still have depression. How is this possible? Welcome to the world of Persistent Depressive Disorder (PDD).
husband offers to watch the kids for her so she can have time to get out and spend time with friends, but she is not interested.
PDD, formerly known as dysthymia, describes an individual who suffers from a depressed mood over a long period of time, often lasting for years, and does not have all of the symptoms of conventional depression. For example, if one is walking around with a depressed mood, feelings of low self-esteem, and suffers from insomnia, it is very possible that they suffer from PDD, even though no other symptoms of depression are present. This is known colloquially as functional depression, since these individuals are functioning, at least in certain aspects of their lives.
The official diagnosis applies to someone who for at least two years has a depressed mood for most of the day, and also has at least two of the following symptoms: poor appetite or overeating, insomnia or hypersomnia, low energy or fatigue, low self-esteem, poor concentration or indecisiveness, or feelings of hopelessness.
These criteria are to pass the threshold of a clinical diagnosis. However, for every clinical diagnosis there are innumerable people who suffer from subclinical levels of a disorder, but are just not suffering enough to meet the requirements of the official levels of mental illness. Hence, someone can get up in the morning, go to work, put on a smile, but then come home and sit on the couch for the rest of the evening lacking the desire to engage with their family, and then go to bed without much success in falling asleep due to persistent insomnia. The rest of the world views this person as a put-together, happy, and functional person. But their family might have an entirely different perspective.
Another example may be a stay-athome mother. She has enough energy to take care of her duties as a parent, but otherwise feels lonely and depressed. Her
Another, somewhat counterintuitive, example is someone who has a very rich and engaging social life, but has difficulty functioning at work. This person might be someone whose mood is uplifted when engaged socially, but when out of the social scene becomes depressed. Those who know him socially would be astounded to learn that there is underlying depression.
The causes of PDD are just as varied as the causes of depression in general. It may be due to genetic or biological causes, or it may be due to life experiences, such as stress, grief, trauma, etc.
PDD often goes undiagnosed for years due to a variety of reasons. Sometimes, one may minimize their condition and convince themselves that since they are successfully employed and get out of their bed every morning they cannot possibly be depressed. Other people might feel guilty for being depressed. After all, they have a loving family, a good job, and physical health. How can one possibly justify being depressed? However, there are serious risks of not treating PDD, since one who has low-grade depression is at risk of developing major depression.
PDD may be treated with medication, therapy, or a combination of the two. A comprehensive physical by one’s physician is also prudent, as there may be a physical health issue that is causing the depression, such as thyroid problems.
Emotional wellbeing is a basic human need, and one should not feel guilty seeking help. Someone who has back pain will seek help even if they are more or less functional. Depression, no matter how mild, is no different.
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
By Etti Siegel
Q:Dear Etti,
I am the mother of multiple children who have gone through elementary school, with one currently still in the thick of it. Please explain the purpose of group projects at home. From the last two experiences we had, the only thing that was gained was more grey hairs on my head! What do teachers think will happen when elementary school students are expected to work together and accomplish something out of the jurisdiction of the classroom? What do they expect? I have found in my experience that it becomes the parents’ homework and that half the kids don’t show up to do their part of the project. From my perspective, they might as well get rid of these projects altogether! What is the purpose?
- Frustrated mom in the middle of a group project
Etti: I am going to give this letter to Aviva Stern, MSEd, Curriculum Coordinator at Bais Yaakov Ateres Miriam and Literacy coach for Catapult Learning, to answer. She and I have discussed this.
A:Dear Frustrated, I totally relate! In fact, I had the same experience recently and wondered to myself what the purpose of these projects really is.
Well, from an educational perspective, there definitely are some intended objectives. Group work changes up the frontal teaching style of learning, where the teacher lectures and the students receive the information in the form of handouts, texts, or notes. Even the most engaging lesson in this format can get tiresome after a while.
A second, if not more important, aspect of group projects is that they foster independence. Students need to assume an active role in learning, work cooperatively, problem-solve, and appreciate the perspectives of others in the group.
Sounds great! Well yes...in theory at least. Groupwork at home can potentially foster friendships…or destroy fledgling ones. It can generate a sense of accomplishment or, on the other hand, a deep sense of frustration. It can be an opportunity for students to spend time out of school productively, in a creative pursuit, or it can become a massive headache…for the parents at least!
So, how can teachers and students (and parents) maximize the “work at home group project” to take advantage of the benefits they have to offer, without running into unproductive roadblocks? How can children participate in group projects without it becoming mommy’s project…
and potential source of stress?
The answer is one that applies to almost any area in life that one wants to be successful: proper planning. Here is my advice to the teachers who are hopefully reading this column.
Be involved in the group formation process. Make sure everyone has a group to work with, so that no one becomes the third, fourth, or fifth wheel. You are the one who knows your students best, so perhaps assigned groups are the way to go, whereby avoiding potential personality clashes, as well as a discrepancy in ability or responsibility.
The best thing you can do for your child is allow him to take ownership.
Give everyone a job. In other words, delegate. Don’t assign the group a project and assume that they will figure out how to follow the instructions and get it done. In all likelihood, they won’t, and if they do, it’s with the parent assuming the role of facilitator. Newsflash: parents pay tuition to avoid this role! A better approach would be to properly define and assign the roles involved so that everyone has a specific responsibility, and that they know what this responsibility entails. Model for the students; perhaps do a small practice run in the classroom to avoid any misunderstanding. Grade the students on his/her individual role. This can avoid the resentment that occurs when someone takes ownership of the project, while some people do nothing.
Give the students tools. Not hammer and nails, but how about effective communication skills? A plan for when they can’t come to a unanimous decision in how to proceed? Teach them to say things like “I hear what you’re saying, maybe we can also consider…”
Teach the children how to pace. Break it up into increments and give them deadlines, after all, you and I both know that otherwise the students will be up the night before finishing that song/skit/book report…fill in the blank. This often occurs since this is new for them, and they actually have no idea how much time the work will
take. They are used to working in a classroom where the time is dictated by the teacher and they just need to follow the rules. Imagine if students could learn pacing an assignment in elementary school. That alone would make the group project a worthwhile investment of time and energy.
Please be mindful as to when these assignments are given, with realistic time commitments considered. Please don’t assign projects that are due the week before Pesach, which hypothetically, of course, has the parents running to the store to buy more oaktags…
Think about making it a school project instead of a home-based project! Some of the above suggestions still apply, but it has the added benefit of breathing some life back into a stagnant classroom, while taking the parents of the picture (you’re welcome!).
Why am I directing my response to educators if this is a column for parents? What can you as a parent do when faced with the ominous group project? Well, hopefully you won’t need to, since teachers read this column!
All kidding aside, the best thing that you can do is take a step back. Avoid the helicopter role. Assume the role of advisor, not as a mediator. Repeat after me: it is their project, not yours. Of course, the age of the children in question will affect the level of involvement needed, but the best thing you can do for your child is allow him to take ownership, and whether it succeeds or fails, he will gain and utilize it as a learning experience. These people and teamwork skills will definitely come up again for this child in his/her workplace in the future. Take a deep breath – reach out to the teacher if need be – but allow this to be a true learning experience in every sense of the word.
Sincerely,
Aviva
Mrs. Etti Siegel holds an MS in Teaching and Learning/Educational Leadership and brings sound teaching advice to her audiences culled from her over 35 years of teaching and administrative experience. She is an Adjunct at the College of Mount Saint Vincent/Sara Shenirer. She is a coach and educational consultant for Catapult Learning, is a sought-after mentor and workshop presenter around the country, and a popular presenter for Sayan (a teacher-mentoring program), Hidden Sparks, and the Consortium of Jewish Day Schools. She is a frequent contributor to Hamechanech Magazine and The Journal for Jewish Day School leaders. She will be answering your education-based questions and writing articles weekly for The Jewish Home. Mrs. Siegel can be reached at ettisiegel@gmail.com.
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