It’s easy to get swept up in the constant stream of headlines, political commentary, and military briefings. But every so often, we need to pause, not just to look at what’s happening, but to reflect on how it’s happening. Since the horrific events of Simchas Torah, Klal Yisroel has been living through an ongoing war. We’ve experienced heartbreaking losses; over 1,200 lives taken, more than 800 soldiers killed, and hundreds of hostages still in captivity. The pain is deep, and the wounds are far from healed. Yet within the darkness, something else has begun to emerge – a pattern of protection, a clear expression of hashgacha pratis that cannot be ignored.
Before Israel’s preemptive strike on Iran’s nuclear infrastructure, military leaders were bracing for the worst. Intelligence reports projected between 800 to 4,000 casualties in just the first 48 hours of Iranian retaliation. Iran, a country far larger than Israel, with a vast military and nuclear ambitions decades in the making, was expected to strike hard and fast. And strike it did, launching hundreds of ballistic and cruise missiles, each one designed to cause maximum devastation. But then came the nissim: nearly every missile was intercepted. And not only was Israel spared, they turned the tables. In a matter of days, much of Iran’s military command was eliminated, key nuclear progress was set back years, and a nation once considered an untouchable regional superpower was brought to its knees by a country the size of New Jersey. While the loss of life was tragic, the contrast between what was feared and what ultimately occurred is nothing short of miraculous. It defies logic, defies
nature, and leaves only one conclusion: Hashem yilachem lachem.
In the months following October 7th, there’s been a noticeable shift in Israel’s approach — from hesitation and passivity to clarity and strength. And we’re seeing the results. Hamas, Hezbollah, Assad’s regime in Syria, and even the looming threat of Iran – all have been weakened in ways that seemed unimaginable just a short time ago. We know
when someone rises to kill you, you strike first. When that approach is taken, we see results not just in theory, but in the skies over Jerusalem, Tel Aviv, and across the entire country.
Eretz Yisroel is eretz asher einei Hashem Elokecha bah tamid. It’s not a phrase we say lightly. Over these past few weeks and months, we’ve seen that reality come to life. The near-total defense against Iran’s onslaught, the unraveling of enemy plans across multiple fronts, and the continued preservation of the Jewish people in Eretz Yisrael just isn’t natural. It’s pure hashgacha in real time.
Recognizing these open miracles should fill us with deep hoda’a to Hashem, but also a renewed sense of urgency. The danger is far from over. We must continue to daven for the safety of Klal Yisroel, for success in defeating those who seek our destruction, and for strength against the enemies who attack us not only with weapons, but with words, headlines, and hateful agendas. The miracles are real, but there is still hard work ahead.
Wishing you 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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Na’aleh Presents 2025
Jewish Community Awards
Na’aleh: The Hub for Leadership Learning—an agency of The Associated: Jewish Federation of Baltimore—honored four exceptional individuals at its annual event, Na’aleh Celebrates. More than 175 professionals and lay leaders from across the community and beyond gathered to recognize their outstanding contributions.
Pictured left to right:
• Barak Hermann, CEO of the Jewish Community Center of Greater Baltimore, received the Daniel Thursz Distinguished Jewish Communal Service Award
• Rachael Walkins, National Culinary Director at Adamah, was honored with the Outstanding Jewish Communal Professional Award
• Julie Tonti, Director of Community Partnerships in Education at Jewish Educational Services (JES), received the Neely Tal Snyder Community Impact Award
• Jenny Seidman, Event Manager at The Associated, was presented with the Unsung H.E.R.O. Award
Mazel tov Jewish Community Award winners!
Tehila High School Open House
In a momentous gathering, the Baltimore Jewish community came together to learn about the highly anticipated Tehila High School, a new girls’ high school set to open its doors in 2026. The informational evening, hosted by the school’s esteemed Board of Directors, offered a glimpse into the vision and mission that will shape the educational experience of its future students.
Ora Kermaier, a board member, provided the backstory, sharing how Tehila High School started as a dream of a few mothers who saw a need in the community. With the guidance and support of respected community leaders, including Rav Yaakov Hopfer and Rav Zvi Teichman, this dream has now become a reality.
At the heart of Tehila High School’s “We want our girls to emerge from high school as confident young women, proud and happy to be Jewish, and excited to pursue life’s journey ahead,” Mrs. Hirtz emphasized, underscoring the school’s unwavering commitment to nurturing the spiritual, intellectual, and personal growth of its students.
Mazel Tov To The TA Kindergartners On Their Graduation!
The evening also featured an insightful address by Rabbi Tzvi Taichman, the beloved Rav of Congregation Ohel Moshe. He shared two key principles that he believes should guide the school: the importance of education through warmth and encouragement, rather than force, and the need to instill students with faith and trust, rather than placing them in a “box.”
“We want to convey the ‘Ohr Hashem’ and the privilege of being a Bas Yisrael to the students,” Rabbi Teichman stressed, highlighting the school’s mission to foster a deep connection to Torah, mitzvot, and a strong sense of self.
During the Q&A session, attendees had the opportunity to ask questions about practical aspects of the school, such as the uniform policy, class size, schedule, and college guidance. The speakers acknowledged that many details are still being finalized, but they emphasized the overarching goal of creating a welcoming and empowering environment for the students.
As the evening drew to a close, Dani Kermaier, the event’s moderator,
encouraged attendees to stay informed about the school’s developments and expressed gratitude for the community’s support. The need for fundraising was acknowledged, underscoring the collaborative effort required to bring this vision to fruition.
Tehila High School’s inaugural event marked a significant milestone for the Baltimore Jewish community, as it paves the way for a new era of educational excellence and spiritual growth for the next generation of young women. With its unwavering commitment to Torah, Middos, and personal empowerment, Tehila High School is poised to become a beacon of inspiration and a transformative force in the lives of its students.
Stay tuned for continued information and more open houses.
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YTS Chemdas Mishnayos Winners
Recently, Rabbi Shai Scherer and Yeshivas Toras Simcha, gave out Seforim for bochurim who went well over and beyond their Mishnayos Perakim quotas from last year’s Chemdas program.
Charm City Ballers Week 4 Recap
Week 4 of Charm City Ballers sponsored by Advanced Security was another exciting one, with one game coming down to the final seconds and the other featuring a dominant team performance.
M&S Enterprise 44 Councilman Schleifer 47
Schleifer Rallies Again, Holds Off M&S
Eitan Hariri hit the go ahead layup with a minute remaining as Councilman Schleifer rallied from an 11 point halftime deficit to knock off M&S Enterprise and remain undefeated. After another Hariri
layup pushed it to a 3 point lead, Avi Goldstein got off a game tying 3 point attempt in the final seconds but it was offline.
M&S got off to an early hot start, making 3 of their first 4 3s, then controlled the late portion of the first half, closing on a 9-0 run to take a 31-20 lead into halftime. Schleifer responded with a 9-1 run to open the second half, and the game was tight from there.
Hariri had his typical performance, filling up the stat sheet with 16 points, 9 rebounds, and 6 assists, but the leader on this night for Councilman Schleifer was a resur-
gent Avner Shotz, who returned from his one game absence to score 20 points on just 13 attempts while also grabbing 7 rebounds and dishing out 3 assists. Usual double digit scorer Yali Rothenberg was held to just 2 points by the ferocious defense of Avi Goldstein.
M&S was led by a turn back the clock effort from Howie Friedman, who scored 11 of his 13 points in a strong first half. Goldstein hit 4 3s but was otherwise off the mark, finishing with 12 points in the loss. Avi Yudkowsky had 9 points, 12 rebounds, and 3 assists as M&S dropped to 1-1 on the season.
Platinum Insurance Group 40 Orshan Legal Group 70
Orshan Legal Breaks Out In Big Way, Routs Platinum Insurance Orshan Legal Group vented their frustration after starting the season 0-3, crushing a shorthanded Platinum Insurance Group 70-40. Orshan Legal tailed 8-2 and 17-10 early on, but ran off a 20-3 run to take control of the game late in the first half. They scored 40 points in a dominant second half, easily the highest scoring half of the season and second highest in CCB history.
Orshan Legal had 5 players score in double figures, 3 of whom had double-doubles, both firsts in league history. Yoseph Orshan scored 16 points, going 4-4 from 3, while grabbing 16 rebounds and dishing out 6 assists. Heshey Green had 14 points and 10 rebounds, while David Raden added 11 and 11 in the win as Orshan Legal moves to 1-3.
Platinum Insurance was missing 3 players, including 2 of their top 3 scorers, and struggled to keep up with the pace set by Orshan Legal. Mordi Spero and Zev Polsky each scored 11 points, while Zack Teichman and sub Avraham Frost each added 6. Spero also grabbed 14 rebounds and added 4 assists in the loss, as Platinum Insurance dropped to 0-3.
Display of the sets of Seforim
Pictured here is Chaim Newmark, who learned well over 130 Perakim of Mishnayos, along with Rabbi Shai Scherer, with his Grand Prize, an entire set of Mishna Berura
Picture here is (from left to right) Avi Scherer, Betzalel Cohen, Chaim Katz, Rabbi Shai Scherer, Yaakov Tzvi Rayman, Shalom Barth, with their well earned Seforim.
Pictured here is Akiva Krohn, who learned well over 150 Perakim of Mishnayos, along with Rabbi Shai Scherer, with his Grand Prize, an entire set of Mishna Berura.
Pop Up Art Event
> Sunday, June 29th // 11:30am-6:30pm > Kol Torah Social Hall - 2929 Fallstaff Rd, Baltimore, MD
Around the Community
Baltimore Torah Weekend Overflowing with Kedusha
This past weekend, Baltimore was alive with extra Torah and kedusha, hosting a series of extraordinary events that highlighted its status as a chashuva makom Torah recognized around the world.
The city welcomed Harav Dovid Cohen, shlita, Posek Hador Harav Yitzchak Yosef, shlita, Harav Uren Reich, shlita, and Roshei Yeshiva from Mir Yerushalayim—each event bringing tremendous inspiration and kavod haTorah to our community.
It’s no wonder Baltimore continues to attract gatherings of this stature—we are privileged to be a true home to Torah.
Enjoy this special photo essay capturing highlights from all five events
Photos: Reb Eli Greengart Photography & Jeff Cohn Photography
FROM THE SPIRIT OF OLD EUROPE TO THE HEART OF NEW YORK HOSPITALS
Mrs. Miriam Lubling’s Journey of Chessed and Strength
BY SHOSHANA FRIEDMAN Editor of Mishpacha Magazine
Step into the life of the “Angel of Mercy,” a soft-spoken and diminutive woman who refuses to take no for an answer. For Mrs. Miriam Lubling, a closed door is never an obstacle — it is simply an invitation to knock again. She walked into operating rooms, intensive care units, and the offices of some of New York’s greatest medical specialists — and when she walked out, she’d ensured that every patient received the best medical care available.
In its countless stories — sometimes funny, sometimes poignant, always inspiring — this absorbing biography shows us how one unlikely woman could achieve so much, through iron determination and endless compassion. Her life inspires us to aim beyond what we consider possible.
Perfect for parents, educators, and young readers alike, this book will uplift, empower, and inspire the next generation—one story at a time.
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Over 50 Torah personalities and leaders
Around the Community
OCA Wraps Up Their 2025 School Year
Greater Washington: Around the Community
YISE Opens Dedicated Mothers’ Lounge Following Community Input
Young Israel Shomrai Emunah (YISE) has unveiled a new mothers’ lounge designed specifically for nursing mothers and infants, creating a private space within the busy shul community.
The initiative began when a young mother responded to a simple question from the shul president about areas for improvement. “What can we do better?” he asked. Her straightforward reply sparked meaningful change: “It would be nice to have a private clean space to feed a baby.”
The timing of the request highlighted both a challenge and an opportunity for the shul. With multiple minyanim, shiurim, and active youth groups spread across the shul every Shabbos morning, finding available space required creative solutions. Shul leadership identified a room adjacent to the ezras nashim that could be repurposed for this vital community need.
In an effort aimed at community building, volunteers stepped forward to transform the space, gathering on a Sunday morning to repair and paint the walls. The finished lounge opened just before Shavuos with two comfortable glider rocking chairs, a changing table, and soft lighting designed to create a calm and relaxing environment for mothers and their infants. The shul has continued to refine the space based on user feedback, adding privacy screening and other furnishings to make the lounge more attractive and convenient.
The response from young mothers has been overwhelmingly positive, with many expressing appreciation for having a dedicated area that allows them to care for their babies in a suitable and comfortable space, while the shul is grateful for the opportunity to serve all members of their community.
The new mothers’ lounge represents not only a practical addition to the synagogue facilities, but YISE’s commitment to listening to its members and adapting to meet the evolving needs of families within the community.
The Week In News
The Week In News
Fatal Plane Crash in India
On Thursday, an Air India plane bound for London crashed less than a minute after it took off, killing at least 270 people, 242 of whom were on board. The others who were killed were hit by the craft after it crashed, skidded, and caught on fire. The only survivor on the plane was a passenger named Viswash Kumar Ramesh.
At 1:38 p.m. local time, the plane crashed in Ahmedabad, India, around a
mile southeast of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport, and damaged several buildings. The aircraft stopped skidding after it hit the dining hall of B.J. Medical College. According to the school’s dean, of the 60 to 80 students in the building, five or more were killed.
Around 28 hours after the crash, authorities uncovered the plane’s black box, a device that records flight data. The cause of the crash is thus far unclear. Because the airplane is American-made, investigators from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board have come to India to investigate the disaster. The crash was peculiar for several reasons. For one, when it descended to the ground, its nose was pointed upward, according to Safety Operating Systems’ CEO John Cox, a former airline pilot.
The aircraft was a 12-year-old Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner. This is the first time a Dreamliner has crashed fatally.
According to Air India, the plane had on board 169 Indian passengers, 53 British citizens, seven people from Portugal, and one Canadian. The crash, one of the world’s most fatal in recent memory, was India’s deadliest since 1996.
Strike at the Louvre
The Louvre, a French museum best known as the home of Leonardo da Vinci’s Mona Lisa, closed last Monday after staff members staged a walkout out of concern for the intense pressure of mass tourism.
The Louvre, the most-visited museum in the world, has only ever closed in times of war, during the pandemic, and during staff strikes in 2013 and 2019 over safety concerns and crowding. On Monday, however, the museum’s shutdown was more sudden than ever, with thousands of confused tourists turned away.
The walkout was decided during a staff meeting, during which gallery at-
tendants, ticket agents, and security personnel opted to spontaneously strike in protest of poor working conditions, understaffing, and overcrowding. The strike came a day after organized anti-tourism protests spread through southern Europe.
On average, 20,000 tourists visit the Mona Lisa per day. Last year, the Louvre hosted 8.7 million visitors, which is more than twice what the museum was built to handle. Though the number of daily visitors is capped at 30,000, employees have voiced concern over soaring temperatures at the museum and a dearth of restrooms and rest areas.
Louvre President Laurence des Cars, in a leaked document, called being at the Louvre “a physical ordeal,” noting that areas of the museum are “no longer watertight,” that the museum’s treasured art works may be damaged by temperature fluctuations, and that visitors are not given sufficient access to food, directions, and restrooms. The Louvre also suffers from water leaks.
A few months ago, French President Emmanuel Macron introduced a plan to restore the museum and fix its issues.
Greater Washington Weekday Minyanim Guide
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
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 mincha
mincha/maariv
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
shacharis
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The Week In News
Macron plans to move the Mona Lisa into her own room and create new entrances and exhibition spaces. The renovation would cost $730 million to $834 million.
The plan is expected to be implemented over the span of a decade, which the museum’s workers say is too long, as some of the Louvre’s issues need to be addressed urgently. Moreover, staff members complain that government funding for the museum is too low, with subsidies having decreased by over 20% over the last decade, despite record visitor numbers.
Iran’s Centrifuges Damaged
According to the International Atomic Energy Agency, the 15,000 centrifuges operating at Iran’s biggest uranium enrichment plant at Natanz were badly damaged or destroyed because of a power cut caused by an Israeli strike, the UN nuclear watchdog chief told the BBC on Monday.
“Our assessment is that with this sudden loss of external power, in great probability, the centrifuges have been severely damaged if not destroyed altogether,” IAEA Director General Rafael Grossi said in an interview with the BBC.
“I think there has been damage inside,” he added.
Power cuts pose a threat to the fragile, finely balanced machines that spin at extremely high speeds.
Earlier on Monday, Grossi told the IAEA board that there was a possibility of both radiological and chemical contamination within the underground Natanz facility.
The radiation caused by the damage posed a significant danger if uranium is inhaled or ingested, he said, but the risk could be effectively managed with appropriate protective measures, such as using respiratory protection devices while inside the facilities.
“The level of radioactivity outside the Natanz site has remained unchanged and at normal levels, indicating no ex-
ternal radiological impact to the population or the environment from this event,” he said.
Israel bombed Natanz early Friday during the first wave of major strikes that started its shock campaign against Iranian military and nuclear sites, in a move it says was needed to thwart an immediate existential nuclear threat.
Israel’s airstrikes have put at least two of Iran’s three operating uranium enrichment plants out of action.
Grossi told the board no damage was seen at the separate Fordo enrichment plant dug deep into a mountain, later telling the BBC: “There is very limited, if any, damage registered [there].”
While the IAEA has not been able to carry out inspections since the attacks, it makes extensive use of satellite imagery.
“Four buildings were damaged in Friday’s attack: the central chemical laboratory, a uranium conversion plant, the Tehran reactor fuel manufacturing plant, and the UF4 [uranium tetrafluoride] to EU [enriched uranium] metal processing facility, which was under construction,” Grossi shared.
Israel said last week it had no choice but to attack Iran, and that it had gathered intelligence showing Tehran was approaching “the point of no return” in its pursuit of nuclear weapons.
Iran, in retaliation, has launched some 350 ballistic missiles at Israel since Friday, the vast majority of which were intercepted, according to IDF statistics released on Monday. In all, 24 people have been killed in Iran’s ballistic missile attacks, and hundreds more have been wounded.
Two Israeli soldiers were killed fighting in separate incidents in southern Gaza’s Khan Younis on Monday, the military announced.
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The Week In News
Cpt. (res.) Tal Movshovitz, 28, a deputy company commander in the 7086th Combat Engineering Battalion, from Re’ut, was killed by an explosive device planted in a building. Hours later, Staff Sgt. Naveh Leshem, 20, of the Golani Brigade’s 12th Battalion, from Nokdim, was killed. Ten other soldiers were wounded.
Leshem and the other wounded soldiers were in an armored personnel carrier during operations in Khan Younis when a terror operative placed an explosive device on the outside of the vehicle. The blast killed Leshem and seriously wounded four other troops, including an officer. It also left three soldiers in moderate condition and another three lightly hurt.
Leshem and Movshovitz were the second and third IDF fatalities in the last three days. Their deaths brought Israel’s toll in the ground offensive against Hamas in Gaza and military operations along the border with the Strip to 432.
Movshovitz was married to his wife Eliana. They had two children.
A day before those two heroes lost their lives, on Sunday, Sergeant Noam Shemesh, 21, of Jerusalem, was
also killed in action in southern Gaza. Shemesh served as a squad commander in the Shimshon Battalion of the Kfir Brigade.
The deadly incidents came as the IDF withdrew some forces out of the Strip, redeploying them along the borders with Egypt and Jordan, after Gaza was downgraded to a secondary arena amid a new campaign against Iran’s nuclear program.
According to the military, four IDF divisions are currently operating in Gaza, after the 98th Division, an elite formation of paratroopers and commando units, was taken out of Khan Younis and sent elsewhere as the Iran conflict began. There are tens of thousands of IDF troops still operating in the Strip.
Hostage Bodies Brought Back Home
Last week, the IDF recovered the bodies of two slain hostages from Gaza’s Kahn Younis area. Yair Yaakov and Aviv Atzili were finally brought
back to their families and laid to rest.
Atzili, a warrant officer in the reserves and a member of Kibbutz Nir Oz’s civil defense squad, was killed battling Hamas-led terrorists in the Gaza border community on October 7, 2023. He was 49. After being killed in battle, Atzili’s body was taken by Palestinian Islamic Jihad to Gaza, according to the IDF. His wife, Liat, was also kidnapped but was released in November 2023 as part of a weeklong truce.
“Aviv bravely went out to defend his Kibbutz Nir Oz, fell in battle against the murderers, and was kidnapped to the Gaza Strip,” Prime Minister Netanyahu said in a statement.
“I would like to thank the IDF and the Shin Bet for their determined action to return him,” he continued. “We will not rest until we bring home all of our hostag-
es — both the living and the dead.”
“Aviv was one of the great pillars of the Nir Oz community,” the kibbutz said in a statement in 2023 after he was declared dead. “Painter, cyclist, a lover of the land. May his memory be a blessing.”
In a Facebook post in February 2024, the Hostages and Missing Families Forum wrote that Atzili was a “peaceful and calm man with good karma” and that “everyone felt he was their best friend who always found the right words and advice.”
Yaakov, the other slain hostage who was brought home last week, was also abducted from Nir Oz and was murdered by Islamic Jihad terrorists during the massacre. He was kidnapped from his home with Tal and his two children. Tal was later released as a part of a hostage-ceasefire deal with Hamas.
The IDF operation to recover the bodies was carried out by the army’s 36th Division and was “enabled by precise intelligence” obtained by the military’s Hostages Headquarters unit, the Military Intelligence Directorate, and the Shin Bet, the IDF said last week.
After the bodies were brought to Isra-
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The Week In News
el and identified at the National Institute of Forensic Medicine, also known as Abu Kabir, officials notified their families and the kibbutz.
Terror groups in the Gaza Strip are now holding 53 hostages, including 52 of the 251 abducted by Hamas-led terrorists on October 7, 2023. They include the bodies of at least 31 confirmed dead by the IDF, and 20 are believed to be alive. There are grave concerns for the well-being of two others, Israeli officials have said.
New Hamas Leader
Following the assassination of Hamas chief Muhammad Sinwar last month, Az al-Din Haddad, 55, became the new leader of the terror group.
Sinwar rose to become the head of Hamas in northern Gaza after Israel assassinated his brother and predecessor, Yahya, in October 2024. Haddad, on the other hand, waas Hamas’s leader in southern Gaza. When Sinwar died, Haddad took full control over Hamas’ operations in Gaza.
According to The Wall Street Journal, Haddad played a role in orchestrating the October 7 massacre, during which Hamas killed 1,200 people and took 251 hostages.
Haddad, who has a $750,000 bounty on his head, is referred to as the “Ghost of al-Qassam,” as he is generally under the radar. Israel has tried and failed to assassinate him numerous times. One former hostage, who was not named, said he met Haddad on five occasions. Once, they slept in the same apartment. In March 2024, when they first met, Haddad spoke to the hostage and others in Hebrew. The terrorist explained that he was responsible for all the abductees. He then showed
them that he had pictures of the hostages on his cellphone.
According to the hostage, Haddad initially seemed friendly. He reportedly asked the hostage if he needed anything and gave the impression that he was concerned with the way the hostage was treated. In January, following the death of one of his sons, Haddad no longer appeared warm. His face was covered, and he angrily ranted about Israel. This year, two of Haddad’s sons were killed.
“Izz al-Din Haddad in Gaza and Khalil al-Hayya abroad, and all their partners in crime, you are next in line,” said Defense Minister Israel Katz, warning the terrorist leaders that Israel plans to assassinate them.
According to reports, Haddad may be more open to disarming Hamas in order to end the war in Gaza. Reportedly, Haddad encouraged Sinwar to accept the ceasefire in January and was supportive of continuing to release hostages in exchange for a temporary truce.
Argentina’s Milei Visits Israel
Last Wednesday, during his threeday visit to Israel, Javier Milei, the president of Argentina, addressed the Knesset and announced that Argentina’s embassy in Israel would move from Herzliya to Jerusalem in 2026. In February 2024, Milei initially declared that he intended to relocate the embassy during his first visit to Israel as president.
At the Knesset, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, Opposition Leader Yair Lapid, and Knesset Speaker Amir Ohana hailed Milei as a true friend to Israel.
“Javier, you are a true friend. With this visit, we are bringing our relations to new heights. 12,000 kilometers separate
Buenos Aires, Israel and the Knesset in Jerusalem,” Netanyahu told him. “This great distance is compensated for by the closeness of our hearts.”
“Time and again, you have chosen to prefer truth over comfort, faith over fashion, and a moral compass over belonging to an automatic majority,” Ohana said, adding that he considers Milei the best friend of Israel and the Jewish people. “By standing by the State of Israel, you have woven yourself and the Argentinian people into the eternal story of the Jewish people.”
Even Lapid, a staunch critic of Netanyahu, joined the prime minister in his praise of Milei. At one point, Lapid began speaking Spanish to Milei.
“Since the prime minister does not know Spanish, I can tell you in secret that we disagree on almost everything. But there are two things on which we agree,” Lapid told Milei. “The first is that Jews have the right to defend themselves. Israel will not surrender or bend. Neither in the face of terrorism nor in the face of lies. The second is that your friendship and support for Israel move us all.”
Milei began his speech to the Knesset by speaking about the October 7 massacre, during which Hamas killed 1,200 people and kidnapped 251 others.
On that day, “the world witnessed great barbarity,” Milei said. “We believed that we had finally put an end to this barbarity — the tragedy of October 7 woke us up from this dream.”
“Argentina stands by you in these difficult days,” he told the Knesset, adding that Argentina will continue calling for the release of all the hostages. “Unfortunately, the same cannot be said about a large part of the international community that is being manipulated by terrorists and turning victims into perpetrators.”
During his speech, Milei criticized Greta Thunberg, an activist who was recently detained by Israel while on a yacht bound for Gaza. Thunberg was promptly deported.
Milei continued by pointing out the “many miracles” that Israel and the Jews have seen.
“The first miracle is the establishment of the State of Israel after the Holocaust,
and the second is Israel’s survival after repeated attempts to destroy it,” he said. The third: “You managed to grow food on land where nothing else grew.”
Netanyahu expressed his gratitude to Milei for “standing by our side in the campaign against the forces of darkness.” The Israeli premier said that Israel and Argentina would together “achieve enormous things.”
“I can assure you that we will continue to fight them. Israel is a fortress of democracy in the Middle East,” Netanyahu added. “We will not fall, nor will we surrender. We will win, and we will bring back all the living and the dead. We will make sure that Gaza no longer threatens Israel.”
Israel Slams Iran
On Sunday, three days into the Jewish state’s war with Iran, Israel struck numerous targets in Iran, killing top Iranian intelligence officers and hitting energy sites and radar systems, as well as ballistic missile launchers. Additionally, the IDF hit what might be its farthest target yet, striking an Iranian refueling plane at northeast Iran’s Mashhad Airport, around 1,430 miles away from Israel.
That day, Israeli strikes killed Brig. Gen. Mohammad Kazemi, the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps’ intelligence chief, Hassan Mohaqiq, his deputy, and Mohsen Bagheri, another IRGC intelligence officer.
Early the following morning, the Israel Defense Forces announced that it had hit surface-to-surface missile launch sites in central Iran.
Early Friday morning, Israel began attacking Iran in an effort to stop the country’s nuclear program, which the Jewish state believed would have imminently become threatening if not for immediate Israeli airstrikes. While the Israeli army is ready for a tough fight with Iran, military officials have said that “at the end of the operation, there will be no nuclear threat” from Tehran.
On Sunday evening, IDF Chief of Staff Lt. Gen. Eyal Zamir praised the “historic and unprecedented operation [against Iran], aimed at significantly damaging the existential threat that Iran has built
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for years to destroy us.”
“We are continuing to operate according to a structured, thorough, professional and evolving plan,” Zamir said. “In the past 24 hours, we completed opening an air corridor to Tehran… Air Force pilots are flying with great risks, hundreds of kilometers away from Israeli territory, striking hundreds of diverse targets with precision. At the same time, we are locating and destroying missile launchers firing at our territory.”
24 Killed in Iranian Attacks
Since Friday, the day Israel began launching airstrikes to stop Iran from creating a nuclear weapon, Tehran has fired back around 350 missiles, most of which were intercepted, killing 24 people in Israel, as of Monday. One other person is missing and is believed to have been killed in an Iranian strike on a building in Bat Yam.
According to the Health Ministry, at least 287 people were hospitalized due to injuries caused by Iran’s strikes, one seriously and 14 moderately. The rest sustained light injuries or experienced acute shock. Two Iranian missiles caused major damage to buildings in Tel Aviv. Convulsions from a strike lightly damaged Israel’s United States embassy branch in Tel Aviv, confirmed U.S. Ambassador to Israel Mike Huckabee.
Iran has been specifically targeting populated areas, including those in Tel Aviv, Haifa, and nearby cities. On early Monday morning, the IDF struck surface-to-surface missile launchers, a move that has cut the number of rockets Iran can launch by half. Shortly after 4 a.m., Iran launched around 40 missiles at Israel, most of which were intercepted. Overnight and on Monday morning, Iran sent dozens of more drones, all of which Israel’s navy and air force successfully intercepted.
One of the impacted cities is Petah Tikvah, where a missile struck a bombproof room. According to the IDF, four people were killed, two inside the shelter and two outside. Another three people were killed in Haifa, where many homes
and buildings were also damaged. In Bnei Brak, authorities recovered the body of a man in his 80s from a damaged building. Miraculously, in a destroyed building, the Magen David Adom emergency service found an uninjured four-day-old baby, whom they kept in an ambulance until the mother was, an hour later, also taken out of the building.
“The arrogant dictator of Tehran has become a scared murderer who fires at Israel’s civilian home front in order to deter the IDF from continuing to carry out attacks that are destroying his capabilities,” said Defense Minister Israel Katz in reference to Iranian Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei. “The residents of Tehran will pay the price – and soon.”
“There is no intention to physically harm the residents of Tehran, as the murderous dictator does to the citizens of Israel,” clarified Katz. “The residents of Tehran will be forced to bear the cost of the dictatorship and evacuate their homes from areas where it will be necessary to strike regime targets and security infrastructure in Tehran.”
“When we control the skies over Tehran, we are hitting these targets, the targets of the regime, unlike the criminal regime of Iran that targets our citizens and comes to kill children and women,” said Netanyahu.
On Monday, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said that the Israeli military has been asking Iranian civilians to evacuate from targeted areas.
Iran generally sends 30 to 60 missiles at a time, 5 to 10 of which aren’t usually intercepted. The Israeli military allows some missiles to fall in open areas, while some circumvent Israeli air defenses and land in populated areas. Tehran can’t launch more missiles than its current amount because the Israeli Air Force’s attacks on Iran’s ballistic missile launchers have limited the regime’s military capabilities.
U.S. Military Parade in D.C.
On Saturday morning, the United States held a military parade in honor of the U.S. Army’s 250th anniversary.
Despite the less-than-desirable weather, thousands watched the parade, which featured soldiers driving down Washing-
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ton, D.C.’s Constitution Avenue in tanks, tary Pete Hegseth as they arrived. Since we also think of the hundreds of thousands of Army soldiers who have made the supreme sacrifice for our nation and selflessly laid down their lives in every war, from the Revolution to the War on Terror, to the Gold Star families with us today,” he added. “The Army has forged a legacy of unmatched courage, untold sacrifice, and unequaled and undying glory.”
Trump praised President George Washington, the most well-known U.S. general, as an “indomitable commander.” The current president spoke of the army’s many victories, including at Gettysburg, Guadalcanal, Shiloh, San Juan Hill, the Argonne trenches, and the Afghan mountainsides. He also hailed other war heroes, including Gen. John Corse, a Union commander who fought despite having been shot in the face, and Gen. “Mad” Anthony Wayne, an American Revolution general.
During the parade, Trump mostly sat but stood multiple times to salute the army. Sitting next to him were the First Lady and Hegseth.
The parade is part of “Task Force 250,” which the president created in January through the use of an executive order. The task force will also organize the 250th anniversary of American Independence, which will be on July 4, 2026. The U.S. Army was established a year before
ble activity that can be promoted widely to reduce the burden of low back pain,” Rayanne Haddadj, the lead author of the study and a doctoral candidate in the department of public health and nursing at the Norwegian University of Science and Technology, said.
Dr. Natasha Pocovi, a physiotherapist and postdoctoral research fellow in health sciences at Macquarie University in Sydney, who was not involved in the research, noted that the study “suggests that we don’t need to complicate our exercise routines to protect ourselves against chronic low back pain.”
The research team analyzed data collected from the Trøndelag Health, or HUNT, Study in Norway. The HUNT researchers, from 2017 to 2019, recruited participants aged 20 and up to wear accelerometers for seven days in order to record their walking habits. Then, from 2021 to 2023, the researchers asked the study’s participants whether they had back pain. In the end, the researchers found that, generally, the more someone walks, the less back pain they report.
parade coincided with multiple anti-Trump protests across the U.S. Protestors have dubbed the demonstrations
“I don’t feel like a king,” Trump said when asked about the protests. “I have to go through [a lot] to get stuff approved. A king would say, ‘I’m not gonna get this.’ A king would have never had the California mandate to even be talking. He wouldn’t have to call up (Speaker) Mike Johnson and (Senate Majority Leader John) Thune and say, ‘Fellas you got to pull this off’ and after years we get it done,” he said in reference to three resolutions he signed on Thursday, which will end Cali-
Keep on Walking
According to a study released on Frijournal,
walking 100 minutes a day is linked to a 23% decreased risk of developing chronic low back pain, a condition that currently impacts around 600 million people and
“This is an important finding because walking is a simple, low cost, and accessi-
According to Pocovi, the study also seems to suggest that faster walking helps more than slower walking. However, it is unclear whether walking for 100 minutes straight is more, less, or equally beneficial as walking for the same amount of time in short bursts, added Pocovi. She also noted that any amount of walking helps, even if it is less than 100 minutes a day.
The study had a large sample size and recorded reliable activity data, thanks to accelerometers. However, the data was only collected over the span of a week. As such, it may not be representative of participants’ general walking habits. The research, for now, has demonstrated a correlation between inactivity and lower back pain but not a causation.
“The key is to gradually increase your walking in a sustainable and enjoyable way,” Pocovi advises. “Additionally, it can be helpful to have a friend, partner, or colleague join you for walks to keep yourself motivated and accountable.”
CIA Analyst Leaker Gets Prison
Asif W. Rahman, a former CIA analyst who last year leaked highly classified records about Israeli plans for a military strike on Iran, was sentenced last week to three years and one month in prison.
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Rahman had pleaded guilty to two counts of violating the Espionage Act, admitting that he leaked more than a dozen classified documents while working as a CIA analyst. He was arrested last year after FBI investigators traced the download of two records detailing Israeli military preparations to Rahman’s workstation at the U.S. Embassy in Phnom Penh, Cambodia.
The two top-secret documents, from the National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency, appeared in a Telegram channel called “Middle East Spectator” in mid-October and described aviation exercises and movements of munition carts on an Israeli airfield that were consistent with preparations for a strike on Iran but contained no images, U.S. officials said.
The leaks also spread to other social media platforms and led Israel to delay its attack plan, officials said. About two weeks before the top-secret documents appeared online, Tehran had fired nearly 200 missiles at Israel as a response to the killings of leaders from Hamas and Hezbollah. The Biden administration was publicly lobbying Israel not to target Iranian nuclear sites or energy facilities as it prepared a retaliatory strike.
“I don’t think the severity, the seriousness, of the conduct can be overstated,” U.S. District Judge Patricia Tolliver Giles said as she imposed Rahman’s sentence in Alexandria, Virginia, federal court. “Our intelligence community has a responsibility of keeping our nation safe, and when things are done to compromise that in any way, it puts us all in danger.”
The leaked information was so sensitive, Giles said, “I can’t even have it in my chambers alone. … And yet, it is thrown into the ether.”
Rahman, 34, also admitted leaking more than a dozen other classified documents, though their contents were not described in public court filings or proceedings.
Rahman had been a high school valedictorian and had earned a Yale University degree with honors in three years. His lawyers said he had mental health issues stemming from a traumatic posting in Baghdad and his wife’s miscarriage, which occurred just before the couple’s planned move to Cambodia last year. In
the end, Rahman moved there alone. His attorneys requested a prison term of one year and one month for Rahman, saying he “never intended to harm the United States or its interests” but was unsettled by “events in the Middle East that began in the fall of 2023.”
“I betrayed the oath I took when I joined the CIA, and I let my colleagues and the American people down,” Rahman said in remarks to the judge on Wednesday.
Minnesota Lawmaker Assassinated
On Saturday, Vance Boelter, 57, allegedly shot and killed Melissa Hortman, the former House Speaker of the Minnesota House of Representatives, and her husband, Mark, at their home. Boelter is believed to have, on the same night, shot Minnesota State Sen. John Hoffman and his wife, Yvette, both of whom survived the attack. Both lawmakers were Democrats.
On Monday, federal prosecutors charged the alleged gunman with six counts, including first-degree murder and stalking offenses. State prosecutors have also charged Boelter, including with murder and attempted murder. Though Minnesota does not have capital punishment, Boelter could potentially be sentenced to death by the federal government. He was held without bail and is expected to reappear in court next week.
According to authorities, Boelter disguised himself as a police officer, carrying a 9mm handgun and a flashlight, when he knocked on the Hoffmans’ door. He also wore a black tactical vest and a “hyper-realistic” silicone mask, according to acting U.S. Attorney Joseph Thompson. Boelter allegedly knocked on their door and shouted, “This is police.” The Hoffmans eventually discovered that Boelter was wearing a mask, and the gunman said, “This is a robbery.” Then, when the senator attempted to push the assailant out of his house, Boelter allegedly shot the lawmaker and his wife. The lawmaker’s adult daughter then called the police. After Brooklyn Park police heard
Mazel tov to the thousands of Lomdei Oraysa across the globe upon completing Maseches Taanis! Mastering a masechta requires unwavering dedication and a steadfast commitment to הרות
— ideals which you have exemplified day after day, amud after amud. As we begin Maseches Moed Katan and the sugyos and halachos of דעומה
, we hope you continue to gain clarity and
from your journey through Shas, one amud at a time.
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about the incident, they sent patrol officers to check on the Hortman family, who lived nearby. Just as the officers arrived, they saw Boelter, who was standing in front of the Hortmans’ open door, shoot and kill Mark Hortman. Police briefly exchanged fire with Boelter, but he escaped. Inside the couple’s home, officials found Melissa Hortman dead.
Following the attacks, Boelter texted a family group chat, “Dad went to war last night… I don’t wanna say more because I don’t wanna implicate anybody,” according to the FBI. He also texted his wife, “Words are not gonna explain how sorry I am for this situation… there’s gonna be some people coming to the house armed and trigger-happy, and I don’t want you guys around.” A few hours after the assassination, he texted friends, “I’m going to be gone for a while. May be dead shortly, so I just want to let you know I love you guys both, and I wish it hadn’t gone this way.”
For more than two days, police searched for the suspect. On Sunday morning, they found Boelter’s abandoned Buick sedan, which he had purchased from an individual he met at a Minneapolis bus stop. Officials found the car on a highway in Sibley County. Inside
of the vehicle was the cowboy hat surveillance footage spotted him wearing and a letter addressed to the FBI, which confessed that he was “the shooter at large in Minnesota involved in the 2 shootings.”
On Sunday, a police officer spotted Boelter running into the woods. The suspect gave himself up to police after they found him in the woods. Later, police found Boelter’s wife and kids in a car, along with two handguns, around $10,000 in cash, and passports.
Before executing the attacks, Boelter conducted surveillance missions and took extensive notes on his targets, according to Thompson. In his fake police car, officials found a list of targets, including 45 elected officials, along with community leaders and activists. According to an anonymous Minnesota official, a common denominator between the elected officials on Boelter’s list is that they were all vocally pro-abortion. While Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz has called the attack “politically motivated,” Thompson has said that it is too early to tell what the suspect’s motives were.
“Such horrific violence will not be tolerated in the United States of America,” said President Donald Trump, condemning the attack.
According to records, Boelter used to serve as a political appointee on the same state workforce development board as Hoffman. However, whether the two were familiar with each other is unclear.
Economist Stanley Fischer Dies
Stanley Fischer, a widely respected economist who served as head of the Bank of Israel for eight years and as vice chairman of the U.S. Federal Reserve for three years, died earlier this month at the age of 81.
The renowned financier was the Bank of Israel governor from 2005 to 2013, and successfully navigated the nation through the 2008 financial crisis. He received multiple accolades for his policies and led the Bank of Israel to be ranked first in 2010 among central banks by the
International Institute for Management Development for its efficient functioning. Fischer, a dual U.S. and Israeli citizen, served as vice chairman of the U.S. Federal Reserve’s Board of Governors from 2014 to 2017, and before that was the World Bank’s chief economist and the deputy managing director of the International Monetary Fund.
In 2023, the Financial Times called him “the pocket-sized colossus of modern central banking” and “the most quietly influential person in global economics over the past several decades.”
Israel’s President Isaac Herzog paid tribute to him as “a world-class professional, a man of integrity, with a heart of gold.”
In 2020-2021, he served on the board of directors of Israel’s Bank Hapoalim Ltd. for eight months, before resigning to spend more time with his family in the United States.
Fischer had taught at MIT and was a distinguished fellow at the Council on Foreign Relations in New York.
His academic work in the 1970s proved to be groundbreaking as he built up the idea that activist central banks could stimulate the economy, becoming a leading figure in New Keynesian
What makes Jewish Baltimore different? We show up for each other—especially in moments like this.
Every day, we’re watching our community reach a breaking point— here in Baltimore and across Jewish communities around the world.
Antisemitism is surging. Families are struggling to make ends meet. Our children are facing a growing mental health crisis. Israel and Ukraine are at war.
And every day, The Associated steps in—with job support, mental health services, tuition assistance for Jewish Day Schools, emergency financial aid and critical relief for those on the frontlines.
This is what community looks like—showing up when it matters most. Make your gift today at associated.org/give.
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economics. One of his published works included the influential book Macroeconomics, co-authored with Rudi Dornbusch and Richard Startz.
Fischer was born in 1943 to a Jewish family in Northern Rhodesia (today’s Zambia), and after the family moved to Southern Rhodesia (now Zimbabwe), he became involved in the Habonim Zionist youth movement. He visited Israel in 1960 as part of a youth leaders’ program. He later studied at the London School of Economics and at MIT, moved to the United States and became an American citizen in 1976. He eventually also obtained Israeli citizenship.
He had been married to Rhoda Fischer, who died in 2020. He is survived by three children.
Red Light, Green Light
A summer won’t be complete without a great game of red light, green
light. This week, a fitness education group broke a Guinness World Record by gathering 1,423 people to play the iconic playground game.
CF Fitness Inc. gathered students from the Anaheim Elementary School District and their families to play the record-breaking game at Yorbe Park in Anaheim, California.
The participants also included students who traveled in from other districts, as well as local firefighters, police officers and city officials.
The game ended up breaking the record with 1,423 participants.
“It was definitely an afternoon filled with lots of energy, and I think my face hurt from smiling so much,” Guinness Records Adjudicator Brittany Dunn said after the successful attempt.
She added, “The children were all really great and so eager to participate. I loved that [they] all took the attempt so seriously, and one of the older police officers present decided he wanted to participate in the game as well, which made the children happy – and I thought was a great reminder that even adults need play in their lives, too.”
Game on!
Smashed Seat
Sometimes, the rule is “look, don’t touch.” But two tourists didn’t get the memo recently when they visited the Palazzo Maffei in Verona, Italy.
The man and woman took turns taking photos of themselves pretending to sit on a crystal-covered chair
made by the artist Nicola Bolla. The museum describes the artwork as an “extremely fragile” piece.
The woman managed to get herself photographed without touching the chair. But the man clumsily squatted and then sat on “Van Gogh’s Chair” and then promptly broke it. Where is Goldilocks when we need her?
The pair then fled the room to desperately get rid of their involvement in the crime.
Palazzo Maffei described it as “every museum’s nightmare” and said on Monday it had made a complaint to the police, without specifying when it was filed.
Since the incident occurred, the museum has thankfully been able to repair the broken piece of art.
After hearing about the tourists’ blunder, Bolla said, “It was an idiotic thing to do.”
Still, the artist said he could see a “positive side” to the incident.
“It’s like a kind of performance. Ordinary people can do it too, not just artists.”
You see, to err is human.
PROUD TO CARE
WhenMrs. Sarah Goldstein* first arrived at Aventura at the Heights, she was apprehensive. A fiercely independent woman, she had always maintained her own home and routine. The transition to senior living felt like giving up control.
Until she met the people.
The warm friends, the caring staff, and the Med Tech who remembered how she liked her coffee changed everything.
Aventura at the Heights is more than a facility – it’s a home where personal connections and preferences matter. Formerly known as Tudor Heights, it remains in the heart of Pikesville but has undergone a full transformation. Residents are welcomed into a modern, inviting space where independence and support go hand in hand. With flexible care options, individuals receive the assistance they need while maintaining their autonomy.
“Over my 26 years here, I’ve
this place evolve while holding onto its heart –
compassionate care,” shares Sheila Simmons, a longtime staff member. Many employees have been with Aventura for decades, fostering deep bonds with the 30+ residents.
Care
isn’t just a service here – it’s a commitment.
For Esther Cohen, a resident of two years, the fit was immediate. “Aventura has exceeded all my expectations,” she says. “From the excellent kosher cuisine to the engaging activities and rich Jewish life –everything is outstanding.”
Birthdays and family occasions are celebrated with enthusiasm, staff remember residents’ favorite seats, and the atmosphere is vibrant yet peaceful.
“Aventura gives me independence with support when I need it,” shares Rochelle Blumberg, a resident of four years. This mid-size community balances personal attention with a full suite of amenities, including rehabilitation services, a salon, gym, and therapy. Neglect and isolation are unheard of here – families instead speak of dignity, peace of mind, and joy.
Seniors have choices in every aspect of their
stay, from medical care to meal options. The little things matter – an aide taking extra time to chat, residents looking out for one another, and families being truly welcomed. Temporary stays for Yom Tov, summer, or any length of time provide respite care with all the comforts of home.
Jewish life is vibrant, with a shul, Sefer Torah, in-house rabbi, and Shabbos and Yom Tov essentials, complemented by a deluxe kosher menu from renowned Chef Menash. Financial flexibility ensures affordability without sacrificing quality care.
Aventura isn’t just a senior living facility – it’s a place where life is celebrated, traditions are honored, and every resident is valued.
Torah Thought
Fools And Follies
By Rabbi Zvi Teichman
There are three classical episodes of ערה ןושל — slander reported in the Torah where the sin of slander and its consequences are described for posterity.
The first story is revolving around the tension that existed between Yosef and his brothers and that infamous report that Yosef brought to his father Yaakov that resulted in the descent to Egypt and all its repercussions. The second event is the misunderstanding that took place between Moshe and his loving sister Miriam and her mistakenly accusing him of abandoning his wife, Tzipporah. This led to her being afflicted with leprosy and forever memorialized by a positive command demanding of us never to forget the effects of this transgression. Finally, the tragedy of the spies and their slandering of the promised land whose results we are still suffering today as we wait for the ultimate redemption from our bitter exile.
Ironically in each of the accounts the severity of the sin is somewhat tempered by the circumstances prevalent in each case. Yosef, sensing the mistreatment of his brothers — the children of the maid servants, at the hands of the brothers — the children of Leah, feel a sense of duty to report to his father, תלעותל — for their benefit, what to all appearances seems like failings on the part of his brothers. Miriam, the dutiful and devoted sister sympathetically reaches out on behalf of her sister-in-law, Tzip-
porah, in questioning her brother’s behavior. According to some opinions she was only speaking to herself without any intention of harming Moshe.
The Talmud points out that the Torah castigates the spies for merely being, ‘those who libeled, ץראה — the land’, but not for the more heinous statement claiming, ‘for they [the inhabitants] are stronger, ונממ — than Him, referring to G-d!
If not for the terrible nature of what was said what then were they all accused of?
Maimonides at the end of the laws of Impurity of Tzara’as describes the evolution of slander. He says that it all begins with the wicked םישפט — fools, who gab grandiosely leading them to eventually bad-mouthing not only each other but their leaders and ultimately G-d.
Indeed, in the Vidui where we confess for our sin of speaking slander we admit, הפ תושפטב ךינפל ונאטחש — that we have sinned before You through foolish [speech] of the mouth.
What is this emphasis on foolishness?
In each of the stories cited the Torah it alludes to this ‘foolishness’.
Yosef is referred as a רענ — young lad, on which Rashi elucidates, תורענ השעמ השוע — he acted immaturely and foolishly.
The Baal HaTurim points out that the word רענ is numerically equivalent to the noun הטוש — a fool! (320)
Aharon begs Moshe to forgive them after his having accepted Miriam’s slander about him, by confessing, ונלאונ רשא — for we have been ‘foolish’, and we have sinned.
The Midrash tells us that King Solomon’s advice in Proverbs (10 18), ‘He that utters slander is a ליסכ — fool’, is referring to the spies, prominent people who ‘made themselves into fools’.
There are different types of fools.
The רענ — the impetuous foolishness of a young lad, who thinks he knows it all when he has yet so much to learn and experience in life.
The ליוא — a fool who has faced life and possesses intelligence but is too secure in his knowledge and unwilling to submit that perhaps he is missing something.
The ליסכ — a dunce whose subconscious corporeal desires and instincts cloud his objective thinking and allow him to make foolish choices. (Based on םיבלמ and R’ S.R.Hirsch)
The first step in the process of the sin of slander begins with poor and foolish judgment and the lack of properly valuing the people and entities we benefit from.
Yosef, Miriam, and the spies all exhibited an aspect of folly in their succumbing to slander. It was the immature exuberance of his youth that prevented Yosef from properly assessing his brothers’ greatness. It was Miriam’s self-assuredness that led her to foolishly judge Moshe on her own justified level. It was the instinctive fear of the spies that they might lose their leadership roles upon entering Israel, that crippled them from appreciating the magnificent gift that G-d handed them.
Every negative characteristic has a positive side. Anger is poison unless it is used to stand up for the honor of Heaven. Pride can be indicative of arrogance except when it is utilized to be proud in being a Jew. And so, it is with every trait. What is the plus side of foolishness?
It is attributed that the great sage Reb Chaim Ozer Grodzinski responded that one must employ tipshus when it comes to judging others!
Too often we jump to conclusions by improperly assessing so many situations in life, resulting in foolish conclusions and disastrous consequences. We would be ‘wise’ to be ‘foolish’ in assuming we are not that smart, thereby saving our relationships not only with our fellow man but ultimately our most treasured bond, that with our Father in Heaven.
You may reach the author at: Ravzt@ohelmoshebaltimore.com
OVERVIEW PARSHA
The command to send the Spies to Eretz Yisroel. The Spies seek out the Land and report negatively. National hysteria ensues. The Jews are punished and must remain in the desert for 40 years. Shelach also discusses libations, atonement, challah, Shabbos and Tzitzis.
Quotable Quote
To be holy means to bear witness to the presence of G-d in our, and our people’s, lives.
Rabbi Lord J. Sacks zt”l
TSorahparks
GEMATRIA
There are exactly 119 pesukim in Par shas Shelach. The Masoretic note (written at the end of the parshah) is ןמיס ט " לפ
The word טלפ has the gematria of 119. טלפ means "remove, rescue."
QUICK VORT
When we are so busy looking outside ourselves, at him and her, at what they have, etc. we end up getting caught up in the fleeting physical pulls and lures of this temporal world. We get sidetracked from our real purpose, value, and mission.
However, when we learn to live our lives looking inside, looking at the pnimiyus, at the core, at the holiness that lies within the world, then that is a recipe for positive spiritual development and growth.
The mistake of the Ten Spies – the Meraglim – was that instead of seeking out the בוט , the goodness and holiness of the Land of Israel, they looked at the physical and external elements of the Land of Israel. Instead of looking inside, they were busy looking outside.
Words - 1,540 PARSHA STATS
Pesukim - 119
Letters - 5,820
Mitzvos - 3
ThoughtsChassidus in
Tzitzis teaches us about the importance of vision, after all, the root of תיציצ means “see.” The Bas Ayin says that תלכת ליתפ - a string of Techeiles - also alludes to site, since תלכת is related to תולכסה, seeing. A yid is constantly supposed to see the תילכת (deeper and higher purpose) in whatever it is he is looking at.
Did You
Know?!
The Tzitzis strings remind us that the Torah is like a life-rope! Rabbeinu Bachaya (15:38) explains that if a person is drowning, the captain of the ship will throw a life rope and yell, “Hold on!!” Similarly, we are thrust into a dark world, and Hashem - the Captain - says, “Hold on!” Connect to Torah and Mitzvos and you’ll be saved!
See Quick Vort for a nice connection!
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 may be reached at 443-938-0822 or oristrum@torahsparks.com
At every situation in life, we have one of two options. We can either look at the externality of the situation, which can often breed negative feelings and moods: Why should he have that and not me? There’s no way I can overcome that. I am so much better than her because…
Or we can take the extra second and look inside, trying and striving to seek out the pnimiyus of the situation, the element of goodness and holiness that lies within.
PointsPonder to
The beginning of the Parshah discusses the 10 spies, and it uses the word רותל - to seek out (spy) the land.
At the end of the Parshah, the Torah discusses Tzitzis, and uses the very same word: ירחא
- don’t stray after your heart and eyes.
What is the connection?
Shelach on
Zmanim are courtesy of MyZmanim and are for the 21209 area. Havdalah Zmanim are at 40 minutes past Shkiah.
How Operation Rising Lion Has Changed the Landscape of the Middle East
By Tzvi Lev
It finally happened. At 2:40 AM on June 13, over 200 Israeli fighter jets lifted off and headed to Iran. Four hours later, the aerial armada reached the Islamic Republic.
Operation Rising Lion was underway. Three decades of Israeli military planning, diplomatic activities and massive covert sabotage and intelligence operations had come to a head.
The first wave was led by Mossad special operations units on the ground in Iran. The operatives had been smuggled in weeks before to a covert drone base located in the heart of Tehran.
The UAVs had been brought into Iran by seaborne commandos and in parts sent via standard mail before being put together in the Tehran safe house by agents recruited years back. Armed with explosives, the UAVs were driven in launchers hidden in the back of innocuous-looking trucks to Iran’ antiaircraft batteries ringing the capital.
Then, the drones lifted off, smashing into the S-300 air defense systems. The skies were now open for the F-35 stealth fighters, who had taken off hours earlier from Nevatim air base in the Negev Desert.
Largely invisible to radar, the F-35’s split off. Dozens continued to target Iranian air defense systems in order to open the sky to the older and slower planes that would follow them.
Others headed to pre-selected targets, assassinating senior Iranian military officers, spy chiefs, and the over a dozen of the Islamic Republic’s most important nuclear scientists. In a dramatic and unprecedented escalation, Israel eliminated the upper echelon of Iran’s military leadership within minutes, in a coordinated strike that stunned the region.
Among those killed were the Chief of the General Staff, the Commander of the Air Force, and the heads of the Iranian Navy and Army Ground Forces. Also eliminated were the top commanders of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), including the leaders of the IRGC Navy, Ground Forces, the Basij paramilitary units, and the Quds Force—the elite external operations wing once led by Qassem Soleimani.
The Commander of the Emergency Headquarters and the head of the Army Air Force were also confirmed dead. The simultaneous strike marks one of the most significant blows to Iran’s military infrastructure in modern history and resulted from a mind-boggling
intelligence operation whose details remain classified. “When the dust settles, you’re going to see some surprises on Thursday night and Friday that will make the beeper operation almost seem simple,” said Israel’s Ambassador to Washington Yechiel Leiter.
With its air defense crippled and most of its chain of command dead, the skies were now wide open. Over 100 aging F-15X and F-16i ‘Sufas’ pulverized the Natanz nuclear enrichment facility, destroying the above-ground infrastructure and wiping out 14,000 centrifuges.
The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) later confirmed the destruction of surface-level centrifuge buildings and reported a loss of power to the underground halls. However, the extensively fortified underground section remained largely intact, according to official assessments and satellite analysis.
For the next three days, the Israeli air force operated freely above the skies of Iran. This sight of IAF jets circling above and bombing missile launchers and sensitive military installations at will was previously unthinkable and was a result of the complete and total air superiority Israel established.
Military analysts around the world marveled at the
speed at which Israel put Iran’s vaunted air defense systems out of service, noting that Russia failed to do so in over three and a half years of war in Ukraine despite having a considerably larger air force than Israel. In an interview with The Wall Street Journal, Lt. Gen. David Deptula (Ret.), former commander of U.S. air campaigns in Afghanistan and current dean of the Mitchell Institute for Aerospace Studies, emphasized that control of airspace is often the deciding factor in military success.
“When no one controls the air, you end up in a war of exhaustion,” he said, referring to the situation in Ukraine. “What we’re seeing with Israel is the opposite—wherever they can dominate the air, they’re able to strike with precision and freedom.”
Not having to fear Iranian Surface-to-Air Missiles, Israeli planes and drones were now able to fly low over Tehran, Isfahan and Mashad and take out hard-to-reach targets such as the mobile ballistic missile launchers that were firing barrages towards Israel. This also enabled the fighters to use short-range rockets instead of expensive long-range missiles.
“The Israelis now have the ability to use the whole suite of their offensive weapons—in greater mass, more efficiently, and spreading them out,” noted retired British Air Marshal Martin Sampson. “From Israel’s side, the campaign objective is to destroy and degrade—and Iran doesn’t have that ability.”
Caught by Surprise
Apart from establishing air superiority, a factor that was key to the initial success of Operation Rising Lion was surprise. Keeping Iran from guessing that an attack was on the way was critical in order to prevent the Islamic Republic’s top brass from hiding in underground bunkers that would be impossible to hit. Furthermore, the tens of thousands of centrifuges at Natanz needed to be spinning when hit in order to be destroyed irreparably.
Ensuring operational surprise featured an expansive deception campaign that included highlighting the upcoming wedding of Prime Minister Netanyahu’s son Avner that was slated to take place this past Monday. Iran surmised that the premier would not ruin his son’s happy occasion by ordering a full-on air assault.
As Israeli and U.S. military officers drew up attack plans, erroneous leaks surfaced in the media that spoke of a supposed demand by President Donald Trump to Netanyahu to publicly renounce any attack plans. These were later confirmed to be purposely planted in the press as part of the effort to keep Tehran from guessing what was underway.
Trump and his team publicly acted opposed to an Israeli strike but privately raised no objections. The strategy was to mislead Iran into believing no attack was coming, preventing key Iranian figures from relocating.
This campaign of deception was needed because Israel’s military strike on Iran’s nuclear program should not have surprised anyone. For days leading up to June 13, every possible red light was blinking.
Reservist pilots were called up en masse, Israeli air force jets stationed overseas for training or maintenance were brought home, and the United States evacuated its embassies in the UAE, Saudi Arabia,
Iraq and Jerusalem. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu paid an irregular visit to the Western Wall to pray for the operation’s success, and wagers on an imminent Israeli attack even surged by 100% on the online betting site Polymarket 72 hours before the planes lifted off.
Yet Iran should not have been surprised that Israel ordered in the troops. Destroying the Islamic Republic’s nuclear program before the fundamentalist state could get to the bomb is well in line with longtime Israeli national security practice. Known as the “Begin Doctrine,” the principle holds that any regime openly hostile to Israel and threatening its existence must be prevented from acquiring nuclear weapons capabilities that could be used against it.
This approach was demonstrated in Israel’s successful airstrikes on nuclear reactor sites in Iraq and Syria, which destroyed the facilities without causing loss of life. These operations significantly delayed the nuclear ambitions of both countries, beyond what might have occurred through technical or diplomatic setbacks alone.
For almost three decades, Israeli leaders consistently and repeatedly vowed that the Jewish State would not allow Tehran to get nuclear weapons. No one took the threat more seriously than Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who viewed stopping Iran’s race to the Bomb as his life’s mission and focused on preventing it to an extent that he was labeled “messianic” by many.
An Existential Threat
Israel views Iran going nuclear as an existential threat due to three key reasons. The first was the fundamentalist and extreme nature of the Islamic Republic.
A religious theocracy, Iran funds terrorism throughout the world and puts destroying Israel as its most important strategic imperative. This goal overrode everything else, to the extent that Iran refuses to cut the hundreds of millions it affords to terror groups like Hamas and Hezbollah even when facing economic collapse due to sanctions.
The prospect of what is arguably the world’s most extreme state possessing the deadliest weapon known to mankind is nightmarish.
“It’s 1938, and Iran is the new Hitler,” Netanyahu once told the United Nations.
For a country founded with the mandate to prevent a repeat of the Holocaust, having its most powerful foe obtain the ability to murder millions of Jews at the push of a button could not be allowed to happen.
Had Iran gone nuclear before the October 7 massacre, what would stop Iran from protecting Hamas by threatening Israel with annihilation should IDF troops enter Rafah?
The scenario of another Holocaust was not theoretical, as senior Iranian officials would frequently reiterate how one nuclear detonation would destroy Israel forever while the Islamic Republic could absorb multiple blasts yet still survive.
The second threat was the effect a nuclear Iran would have on the entire region. With Shi’ite Iran viewed as the primary adversary by dozens of Sunni states, Iran obtaining the bomb would unleash a nuclear arms race throughout the wider Middle East.
The Shi’ites and Sunni Muslims have had an uneasy relationship for almost a thousand years. Sunni Islam views Shi’ites as heretics; Iran invests enormous resources to topple moderate Sunni regimes in places like the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, Jordan and Egypt.
Even the perception that Iran is progressing toward nuclear weapons capability would trigger a regional arms race, with nations such as Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates seeking to match that threat in order to maintain strategic balance. Currently, Israel is the only country in the Middle East widely believed to possess nuclear weapons—an undeclared arsenal believed to date back to the late 1960s, though Israel officially maintains a policy of nuclear ambiguity.
Saudi Arabia has openly indicated its intention to pursue nuclear weapons if Iran were to develop them. In 2018, Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman (MBS) stated that while the kingdom does not desire nuclear arms, it would not hesitate to acquire them if Iran did. He reaffirmed this position in a 2023 interview, saying that Saudi Arabia is wary of any state obtaining nuclear weapons and would feel compelled to respond in kind if Iran became a nuclear power.
Saudi Arabia has already taken significant steps toward developing a civilian nuclear program. In 2019, reports surfaced about the near-completion of its first nuclear reactor near Riyadh. The following year, investigations revealed Saudi cooperation with China in building a facility to process uranium yellowcake. U.S. intelligence agencies later assessed that this collaboration could potentially lead to a broader capability for producing nuclear fuel.
Then there are similar initiatives across the region, potentially involving the UAE, Egypt, and Turkey. The UAE became the first Arab state to operate a nuclear power plant in 2020 with the launch of the Barakah facility. Egypt, once a strong supporter of the Iran nu-
clear deal (JCPOA), viewed it as a safeguard against regional proliferation before its collapse.
Turkey has also expressed dissatisfaction with nuclear inequality; in 2019, President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan criticized the notion that some countries are allowed nuclear weapons while others are not, pointing specifically to Israel as an example of regional imbalance.
A nuclear arms race in the Middle East would prove catastrophic for Israel. If Cold War tensions between United States and the Soviet Union were highly calculated by two rational actors seeking to refrain from deteriorating to a nuclear holocaust, here the deadly weapons would be held by extreme and unstable regimes sitting on its borders.
The threat to Israel’s security would go well beyond the Arab governments themselves. Nothing could guarantee that a military officer undergoing a religious awakening would not “go rogue,” acting on his own to detonate a nuclear weapon on Israeli soil in order to go down in Islamic history as the biggest hero since Saladin.
And while Moscow and Washington were on opposite sides of the globe during the Cold War, Egypt and Saudi Arabia are less than a half-hour flight time from Israel. It would be almost impossible for Israeli intelligence to detect the threat in time, let alone act on it.
Nor could Israel destroy an Arab nuclear program like it did in Iraq, Syria and Iran. Attacking Saudi Arabia would mean declaring war on Muslims worldwide, while Egypt is nominally an ally that shares a border with Israel and has the largest military in the Middle East.
“Saudi Arabia does not want to acquire any nuclear bomb, but without a doubt, if Iran developed a nuclear bomb, we will follow suit as soon as possible,” Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman warned in 2018. Only by stopping Tehran’s race to the Bomb could Israel prevent widespread nuclear proliferation in the Middle East.
The third reason Israel could not live with a nuclear Iran is the protective umbrella a nuclear Iran would be able to give its proxies. Had Iran gone nuclear before the October 7 massacre, what would stop Iran from protecting Hamas by threatening Israel with annihilation should IDF troops enter Rafah?
Iran obtaining weapons of mass destruction would make its proxies untouchable, allowing groups like Hezbollah and the Houthis to morph from serious threats to an existential danger to Israel’s existence. These were not chances that Israel could take after the shocking surprise of October 7.
Moving Forward
Operation Rising Lion went forward as a result of the various factors coming together. The first was Iran’s race to the Bomb, together with an effort to produce hundreds of ballistic missiles every month.
Just days before launching its surprise strikes on Iranian targets, Israeli intelligence reportedly uncovered evidence that Iranian scientists had made significant progress toward the development of a nuclear weapon—advancing the program to a point where a functioning bomb could be completed within weeks, if Tehran chose to move forward.
According to unnamed security officials cited by
Army Radio, this critical intelligence was delivered to Israeli decision-makers as part of the final deliberations before Friday’s operation. Officials referred to the information as “golden” but also noted a troubling gap in visibility: Israel could not confirm whether Iran had advanced even further than known.
The report claims that, beginning in late 2023 or early 2024—soon after Hamas’s October 7 attack and the subsequent escalation in Gaza—Iran discreetly mobilized teams of scientists. These experts were divided into specialized groups, each focusing on a different phase of the nuclear weaponization process, with operations conducted in extreme secrecy to avoid detection.
“We saw Iran on the threshold of getting a nuclear weapon, perhaps in a matter of days. We couldn’t let that happen and made it clear to the United States that we would act – with or without them,” Prime Minister Netanyahu told Fox News.
Then there was the complete destruction of Hezbollah and the Assad regime, removing the biggest threat from Israel’s northern border. Two of Iran’s strongest allies and assets, these proxy groups had been armed by the Iran Revolutionary Guards Corps (IRGC) for over two decades for this very moment – unleashing the gates of hell and raining thousands of missiles onto Israel’s Home Front every day in the event of a potential Israeli strike.
But the IDF shattered Hezbollah, leading to the fall of the Assad regime and removing Iran’s main forces from the picture to the extent that Hezbollah refrained from joining the fight following last Friday’s assault on Iran. If Syria once played a central role in the anti-Israel axis painstakingly constructed by the Iran Revolutionary Guards Corps, new President Ahmed Al-Shaa’ra declared that he would take no side in the current outbreak of hostilities and maintained that “we have no issue with Israel using our airspace to shoot down ballistic missiles.”
Finally, there was the election of President Donald Trump. Replacing President Joe Biden, the man who denied Israel the crucial weaponry it needed to fight in Gaza, with someone like Trump and his strong antagonism towards Iran was a key development.
An air assault on Iran was a non-starter for the Biden administration, staffed by Obama veterans who brokered the disastrous Iran deal. Had Kamala Harris prevailed in the election, with the former vice president surrounded by a bevy of pro-Iran advisors, it
For a country founded with the mandate to prevent a repeat of the Holocaust, having its most powerful foe obtain the ability to murder millions of Jews at the push of a button could not be allowed to happen.
definitely would have been off the table.
But Trump running things opened up a slew of new possibilities. The immediate and urgent threat of a nuclear Iran, the elimination of its proxy network surrounding Israel, and the return of Trump presented a unique opportunity.
What Comes Next
Israel’s ongoing attack on Iran is a generational event, whose effects will reverberate throughout the region for decades to come. What comes next depends on three critical questions.
The first is to what extent Iran’s nuclear weapons program is impaired. Current estimates say that Iran has been set back for at least a year, as Israel caused significant damage to the Natanz and Isfahan enrichment facilities and killed dozens of its top scientists.
At the same time, Israel has of yet failed to target the Fordow Fuel Enrichment Plant. The subterranean uranium enrichment site is key to the survival of Iran’s nuclear weapons program, and it would be impossible to fully eliminate Tehran’s nuclear infrastructure if the installation is still operating.
But buried hundreds of feet underground and built under a towering mountain, the facility is largely immune to Israeli airstrikes. Only the United States currently possesses the 30,000-pound Massive Ordnance Penetrator precision-guided bombs that are able of destroying hardened sites.
Israeli officials have admitted that they cannot fully destroy Iran’s nuclear infrastructure on its own and have been pressing the United States to step in.
“Thirty minutes of U.S. strategic bombing by a pair of B2’s, and the Iranian threat is history. We don’t need boots on the ground, and we’ve already taken care of Iran’s air defense” said Major General Ya’acov Amidror, Israel’s former National Security Advisor and a close Netanyahu advisor.
This raises the second critical question of to what extent the United States will enter the fray. Israeli officials say that apart from military action against the Fordow facility, Washington can use its significant diplomatic clout to end Iran’s designs of a nuclear breakout.
Speaking with Israel’s Channel 12, National Secu-
rity Advisor Tzachi Hanegbi remarked that only the United States has the ability to fully dismantle Tehran’s nuclear ambitions—not through advanced munitions like the “bunker buster, but through diplomatic pressure. He pointed to the agreement once proposed by former President Donald Trump, under which Iran would abandon its nuclear efforts in return for normalized relations and the lifting of economic sanctions.
Israel’s overarching strategy with Operation Rising Lion is two-pronged, and both involve the United States: the first goal is to halt Iran from obtaining a nuclear weapon by forcing it back to the negotiating table in a dramatically weakened state, following days of “Shock and Awe” airstrikes and systematic assassination of top security brass.
Should that fail, Israel seeks to have Washington put the finishing touches by joining the operation and dropping its GBU-57A/B “Bunker Busters” on the Fordow enrichment facility hundreds of feet under the earth.
The final question is the future of the Islamic Republic. Some contend that Iran is currently in a vulnerable state, and that this moment presents a rare opportunity to leverage internal instability and widespread dissatisfaction among the population to challenge—and potentially topple—the country’s ruling religious leadership, led by Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.
Israel reportedly had intended to assassinate
Khamenei but called off the strike following pressure from President Donald Trump. Netanyahu himself suggested that eliminating Iran’s Supreme Leader “would be the best way to end the conflict” with Iran, adding that “we’re doing what we need to do.” Israel has so far refrained from targeting the regime itself, restricting its airstrikes to Iranian nuclear and military installations and senior defense officials. Yet that could change as time goes on and Jerusalem decides that it cannot remove the Iranian nuclear threat solely through kinetic means.
A New Middle East
Israel has demonstrated military and intelligence mastery arguably unmatched in the annals of warfare. Tiny Israel with less than ten million people established complete air superiority within days over a nation thousands of kilometers away, circling over Iranian skies at will and completely decapitating its military leadership.
It’s difficult to describe how Israel’s strategic position has changed. Only two years ago, it was surrounded by Hezbollah with hundreds of thousands of missiles and a small army, who threatened to turn entire cities into an inferno in the event of future hostilities.
Iranian proxy militias numbering tens of thousands of fighters waited in Syria, backed by the Assad regime and its powerful military. In Gaza were Hamas
and the Palestinian Islamic Jihad, while the Houthis in Yemen and Iran-affiliated militias in Iraq built up their strength.
With Iran’s “Ring of Fire” in place, Israel expected to suffer an aerial blitz on its cities that would see tens of thousands of dead Israelis. IDF intelligence reports predicted much of the country’s critical infrastructure destroyed, of weeks without electricity and potable drinking water.
Today, Israeli troops occupy much of Gaza; Hamas is unable to fire missiles at Israel and is heavily degraded. Hezbollah has been effectively dismantled and refrained from joining Iran’s war against Israel; Syria’s military was destroyed by Israel and a new regime rules in Damascus.
However things play out, Israel has woken up to a new reality: it is a regional superpower, more powerful than any Jewish entity in the Middle East in recent history.
Born and raised in Far Rockaway, NY, Tzvi Lev has extensive experience working throughout the Middle East. Previously an Israeli diplomat, Tzvi served on the Abraham Accords Task Force and established Israel’s Economic team in Dubai, leading it while living in the UAE for three years. Today, he is a businessman and the CEO of the Dubai Israel Business Council.
To Raise a Laugh
About A Foot
For the past few weeks, I’ve been wearing a slipper on my foot. Not two slippers. Just one, on my right foot. And a shoe on my left. This is paying havoc with my OCD.
The reason I have a slipper is that I recently had toe surgery. I don’t really want to go into the graphic details of why I needed toe surgery, because no one wants to hear about my toes on a good day.
Suffice it to say that I broke my toe way back in September, during parent-orientation night at my kids’ school. And for months after that, the toe kept hurting. On and off.
“When does it hurt?” people would ask.
“Mostly when I run or do pushups,” I’d say.
And everyone’s like, “Wait. You’re athletic?”
Like, “How about you do what I do? DON’T run or do pushups!”
Wow. Why didn’t I think of that?
Point is, my doctor recommended open-toe surgery. It was an outpatient surgery, which means that I went home that day, but also that they had to knock me out. Though actually, I don’t remember being knocked out. I was very tired. I think I fell asleep before they had a chance.
“He’s out.”
“I didn’t knock him out yet.”
“You must have. He’s out.”
So I decided to document this time in my life – keep some kind of medical journal, if you will. This is what a medical journal is, right? I might be on painkillers.
DAY 1:
-People keep asking what time my surgery is so they can say Tehillim. I feel weird having them do that. There are people having open-heart surgery so they can live. I’m having open-toe surgery so I can do pushups without using my knees.
-They just gave me a hospital gown and grippy, non-slip socks to change into. I wish I’d had these at orientation.
-They also told me to take everything off everything and put on this gown. I can’t wear
glasses or a watch because they need to access my foot. But grippy socks I can wear.
-Well, at least they gave me a bag to put my clothes in that looks exactly like the bag they gave every other patient.
-Someone just made a big X on my foot so they know which one it is. (“I forgot which foot. Wake him up and ask him.” “I didn’t even put him to sleep!”)
-When I wake up, the doctors are gone, and I’m in a recovery room with a massive bandage over my foot. The surgery was a success, I’m told. I’m alive.
-They return me to my wife, who’d been keeping track of which bag was mine and saying Tehillim and seems reasonably happy that I’m alive. They also give me a slipper that fits over the bandage. It’s black, so it goes with my suit, in case I need to wear it to a vort or something, which I do.
-I’m not supposed to walk on the foot today. I hope to be able to get out to shul for Shabbos tomorrow night. I don’t really want to use a crutch, because I’m afraid I’m going to overuse it. And then it’s going to become a crutch.
-I’m also told that I can’t drive. We don’t want to leave the lives of my entire family in the hands of my foot. So I have to walk everywhere. How is that better?
-I’m also not allowed to get the foot wet. At all. This means that I can’t bring it in the shower with me. Where do I leave it?
-More good news – it’s supposed to rain this Shabbos. I might have to wear a grocery bag, like those people who walk around all Shabbos with bags on their heads.
DAY 2:
-I hobble to the shower. I put my foot in my hospital belongings bag and tape it shut.
-Oh, hey! So that’s where I left my other sock!
-My wife just came home with a raincoat thing that goes over my foot and keeps it dry. I can wear it to shul!
DAY 3:
-It didn’t rain on Shabbos. Because I had the raincoat.
By Mordechai Schmutter
DAY 5:
-My bandage was mostly off when I woke up this morning. I decided I would take it off entirely and see if I could rewrap it. I unraveled it, saw what was going on under there, screamed, tried to wrap it up as best I could, and lay back as if nothing had happened, trying to forget what I saw. Then my wife came upstairs, and she asked, “What was that scream?” And I’m like, “Nothing… I took a picture.”
-My students are constantly asking questions about it. “Sit down and listen to the lesson,” I tell them. “Or I’ll show you the picture again.”
DAY 8:
-It’s time to go home from school, my ride is here, I have a follow-up appointment to get to, and now it’s raining. Because I don’t have my leg raincoat.
-I go into the yeshiva’s dining room, where there are still leftovers sitting out from lunch. I take a half-full bag of onion rolls, pour the rolls into another bag, and put the empty bag over my foot. At least my foot is going to smell good for a change.
-The doctor changes my bandage and gives me a sock that is open at both ends and that will keep the bandage on. He also wants to know why he smells onions.
-Turns out the bandage wasn’t what was massive, my foot was massive.
Day 15:
-Now that the stitches are out, the doctor says I can drive as soon as I can get a shoe on. I’m not sure I’m ready to switch out of the slipper. I like that it’s a visible indicator to people that I hurt my foot, so they don’t come out of their way to bump into it, like they’ve been doing.
-I don’t want to switch yet, because people treat me differently when I have a slipper. For example, as long as I have this slipper, no one asks me to do hagbah.
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.
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
Forgotten Her es Jewish Medics in New Guinea
By Avi Heiligman
The achievements of the medical profession have greatly increased over the past 200 years. This has translated well to the battlefield as the developments have saved countless lives. Key medical contributions from World War II include the introduction of penicillin and antibiotics, blood transfusions, air evacuations, and better trauma and surgical care. To care and treat the wounded from the battlefield, a large number of medical personnel was needed. By the spring of 1945, over 245,000 people had joined the army’s medical department, with many more serving in the navy and the Marine Corps.
Battlefields from World War II were often known for their inhospitable terrain and harsh climate. From the frozen landscapes in Russia to the almost unbearable heat of North Africa, there were some situations that made logistics difficult. This included getting medical supplies and personnel to an area to treat the sick and wounded. The fighting on New Guinea in the South Pacific was extremely challenging due to the mountainous terrain, very hot temperatures, and lack of infrastructure and roads. Wounded soldiers often had to be carried miles through dense jungle, and diseases like malaria were rampant. Still, a major effort went into maintaining medical facilities even in remote areas, while the presence of Japanese
troops remained an ever-present danger.
Sergeant Frederick Kosak of New York was a medic with the 2nd Field Hospital in New Guinea. The U.S. Army had been fighting alongside the Australians in defending the key city of Port Moresby and by the fall of 1942 had begun the intense jungle fighting in the Buna-Gona Campaign. Kosak worked tirelessly to care for the wounded and sick undeterred by the enemy planes strafing and bombing the American bases.
On December 7, 1942, Sergeant Kosak was caring for a Major Edwards who had been wounded in action when a Japanese plane began its strafing run. Bullets pierced through the hospital tent killing and many several soldiers. Kosak covered Edwards with mattresses without regard of his own safety. The major survived, and Kosak was credited with saving the wounded man’s life. For his actions, the Jewish medic was awarded the Silver Star.
First Lieutenant Nathan Brooks was another Jewish medical officer in the 2nd Field Hospital Field tent that day on New Guinea. He had graduated from Wayne State University Medical School in 1938 and was a doctor in the Detroit area for many years. His Silver Star citation reads in part: “Lieutenant Brooks cared for the sick and wounded, working courageously and fearlessly, entirely oblivious of his personal safety, while continually being bombed and strafed by enemy planes.”
The 32nd Infantry Division was heavily engaged during the Buna-Gona Campaign on New Guinea. Jewish Doctor Rafael Gamso of Brooklyn, New York, was a captain in the division when on December 29, 1942, they heard that a company that had reached the coast was in desperate need of medical assistance. The company had been cut off by the Japanese. Captain Gamso led five unarmed soldiers to bring medical supplies through enemy lines. Braving enemy automatic and sniper fire, they finally reached the stranded company. Gamso stayed all night treating the wounded soldiers before returning to his unit the next day. All five men were awarded the Silver Star for their actions.
Private Hyman Epstein was a medic with the 126th Infantry Regiment, 32nd Division on New Guinea. Born in Russia, Epstein moved to Omaha, Nebraska, and excelled at sports while in high school. The Jewish medic was killed by a sniper near Soputa on December 1, 1942. His unit was sent to an area where the Japanese had set up machine guns flanked by snipers. After a number of American soldiers became casualties, the commanding officer refused to allow medics to go out onto the battlefield to treat them due to the extreme risk. Epstein went anyway and started treating the wounded. This went on until a sniper’s bullet tragically killed him. He was
awarded the Silver Star and the Purple Heart which his parents received in a ceremony in Omaha in June 1943.
During the campaign, the Japanese bombarded American rear areas with air attacks. During one of these bombardments on December 7, 1942, First Lieutenant Julius J. Gutow was operating on patients in a 2 nd Field Hospital tent. The Jewish doctor continued the medical procedures despite the bombs falling in the area and received the Silver Star for fearlessly working on patients despite the danger.
The Buna-Gona Campaign ended in January 1943 when the Australian and American forces successfully defeated the Japanese at their beachheads. The campaign was costly, as close to 2,000 people were killed and over 12,000 others were wounded or became severely ill. It was also a crushing defeat for the Japanese as they had also suffered heavy losses. The New Guinea Campaign continued until the end of the war. The sacrifices and heroism of the medical teams that operated during this brutal campaign is history to be remembered.
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.
American Field Hospital on Port Moresby in August 194 Troops during the Buna-Gona Campaign
Health & F tness
“What If I Drop Her?” A Silent Struggle with Postpartum OCD
By Rivka Kramer, PMHNP-BC
When Leah gave birth to her daughter, she expected exhaustion. She expected emotional ups and downs. She even braced herself for moments of doubt and overwhelm.
What she didn’t expect were the thoughts.
They started subtly, like background noise she could shrug off. What if I don’t wake up when the baby cries? What if she rolls off the bed when I change her diaper? Harmless, right? Every new mom worries.
But soon the thoughts turned darker, more persistent. What if I hurt her? What if I snap and throw her?
Leah was horrified. She loved her baby more than anything. She would never, ever hurt her. But the thoughts kept coming, like an uninvited guest that refused to leave. She started avoiding holding her daughter unless someone else was in the room. She wouldn’t use knives or walk near stairs with the baby. She washed her hands until her knuckles cracked, terrified she might make her daughter sick.
And through it all, Leah told no one. Because what mother thinks these things?
What Is Postpartum OCD?
Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) is a mental health condition characterized by intrusive, unwanted thoughts (obsessions) and repetitive behaviors or mental rituals (compulsions) that are meant to reduce the anxiety caused by those thoughts.
Postpartum OCD is a subtype that emerges after childbirth. Unlike postpartum depression, which is more widely discussed, postpartum OCD is lesser known—and often misunderstood. Many women don’t even realize what they’re experiencing has a name.
While OCD can present in many forms, postpartum OCD often revolves around themes of harm and contamina-
tion, especially directed toward the newborn. The thoughts are deeply distressing, completely ego-dystonic (meaning they go against the person’s values and desires), and usually lead to significant shame.
Some examples of intrusive thoughts common in postpartum OCD:
• What if I stab my baby with scissors while trimming her nails?
• What if I accidentally smother him in his sleep?
• What if I touch her with dirty hands, and she gets sick and dies?
• To reduce the anxiety, moms might:
• Avoid being alone with the baby
• Avoid sharp objects or potentially “dangerous” items
• Repeatedly check on the baby during sleep
• Seek reassurance constantly
• Wash or clean excessively
These are not simply “new mom worries.” The level of distress and the compulsive behaviors distinguish postpartum OCD from typical concerns.
“I’m Not Crazy — Why Am I Thinking This?”
One of the cruelest aspects of postpartum OCD is how deeply it shames the mother. The intrusive thoughts feel morally repugnant. They clash with her
intense desire to protect her baby. This mismatch creates a deep fear: What if I’m not safe? What if I’m a danger to my child?
But here’s the truth: having intrusive thoughts is not the same as wanting to act on them. In fact, the very distress they cause is evidence that the mother does not want to harm her baby.
Psychiatrically speaking, the intrusive thoughts in OCD are known to be “ego-dystonic,” meaning they feel foreign and unacceptable to the person experiencing them. This is different from psychosis, where harmful thoughts might feel real or justified. In postpartum OCD, mothers know the thoughts aren’t right— but that awareness only intensifies their distress.
This distinction is critical. One of the most common fears women with postpartum OCD have is: If I tell someone what I’m thinking, they’ll take my baby away. This fear often keeps them silent and suffering alone.
The Psychiatric Perspective
From a clinical standpoint, postpartum OCD is part of the broader family of perinatal mood and anxiety disorders (PMADs). It often begins within the first few weeks after childbirth, though it can develop gradually.
Risk factors include:
• A personal or family history of OCD, anxiety, or depression
• Traumatic birth experience
• Sleep deprivation
• Hormonal shifts
• High levels of responsibility or perfectionism
It’s estimated that up to 3-5% of new mothers may develop postpartum OCD— though many go undiagnosed due to stigma or misidentification as generalized anxiety or postpartum depression.
Importantly, postpartum OCD is treatable. Psychiatric care often involves:
1. Psychoeducation – Helping the mother understand that intrusive thoughts are a symptom, not a sign of being unfit.
2. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) – Specifically, a form called Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP), which helps the person face their fears without performing compulsions.
3. Medication – SSRIs like sertraline (Zoloft) or fluoxetine (Prozac) are commonly used and considered safe in breastfeeding mothers.
Sometimes, a low dose is sufficient. Other times, medication and therapy together create the most effective result. Every case is unique—and so is the treatment plan.
Why It’s Not Talked About Enough
Motherhood is often painted with soft lighting—bonding, joy, the smell of newborn skin. But the reality is messier. Not just sleepless nights and diaper blowouts, but fear, shame, guilt, and sometimes disturbing thoughts that mothers can’t bring themselves to voice.
Culturally, we expect women to immediately feel connected to their babies. To be naturally maternal. So when the experience doesn’t match the expectation, mothers often assume the problem is them.
Mental health stigma plays a huge
role. A mother might walk into a psychiatrist’s office and casually mention she’s tired or anxious but omit the part about the terrifying thoughts. Clinicians must be attuned to the subtle signs—and create safe, nonjudgmental spaces where mothers feel empowered to speak honestly.
As mental health providers, we need to ask directly:
Have you been having any scary or unwanted thoughts that you don’t feel comfortable sharing?
Do you ever find yourself doing things repeatedly—like checking or cleaning—to make sure your baby is safe?
These questions, asked with compassion, can open a door.
Differentiating OCD from Postpartum Psychosis
Because intrusive thoughts can sound alarming, it’s important to clarify the difference between postpartum OCD and postpartum psychosis.
In postpartum OCD:
• The mother is aware the thoughts are irrational and upsetting.
• She feels intense guilt or fear about the thoughts.
• She avoids situations to prevent harm.
In postpartum psychosis:
• The mother may lose touch with reality (delusions or hallucinations).
• She may not recognize the thoughts as problematic.
The first thing her psychiatrist said was: “ Thank you for telling me. You’re not alone. And you’re not a danger to your baby.”
Leah burst into tears.
With a combination of therapy and a low dose of sertraline, the fog began to lift. The thoughts didn’t disappear
The thoughts kept coming, like an uninvited guest that refused to leave.
• There is a potential for true harm, and it is considered a psychiatric emergency.
While postpartum psychosis is very rare (about 1-2 per 1,000 births), it’s often confused with OCD. This confusion can further stigmatize OCD sufferers, who already fear judgment.
Healing and Hope
When Leah finally told her OB-GYN what she was going through, she was referred to a reproductive psychiatrist.
overnight—but they lost their power. She learned to recognize them for what they were: OCD lies, not reflections of who she was.
One of the most healing moments came when she met other mothers who had been through the same thing. Just knowing she wasn’t alone helped her reclaim her confidence as a mother.
What You Can Do
If you’re a mother having disturbing thoughts, know this:
• You are not your thoughts.
• You are not alone.
• You can get better.
If you’re a partner, family member, or friend, watch for signs: Avoidance, irritability, excessive checking, or a sense of shame that the mother can’t articulate. Offer support without judgment. Encourage her to speak to a professional—ideally someone with experience in perinatal mental health.
And if you’re a clinician: ask the scary questions. Normalize the conversation. Let your patients know that scary thoughts don’t make them bad mothers— they make them human. And treatable.
Postpartum OCD doesn’t define motherhood. But how we talk about it—how we recognize it, treat it, and support women through it—can define how a mother heals.
Let’s be brave enough to talk about it.
Rivka Kramer is a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. She has a psychiatric private practice based in Cedarhurst, NY. She serves as a member of the board of JANPPA, the Jewish American Nurse Practitioner Psychiatric Association. She can be reached at 516-945-9443.
Mental Health Corner
Post-Cancer Fatigue And Depression
By Rabbi Azriel Hauptman
When one hears the word cancer, has been progressing, and more and of their lives. The ability to keep on living after such a trying and traumatic experience is one that cancer survivors do not take for granted.
However, many survivors find that they are plagued by significant fatigue for months or even years after ending treatment. Very often, the doctors will tell them that they are as healthy as anybody else and that they should expect to be back to themselves in due time. Unfortunately, that is not the reality for many survivors.
This fatigue presents serious challenges. The most obvious difficulty is that this fatigue is not well understood by medical researchers and that there is no known drug that can effectively treat it. Secondly, family and friends can get frustrated when they see the cancer survivor not bouncing back as quickly as they expect and then they sometimes insinuate that the survivor is being lazy or ungrateful.
There is evidence that exercise, such as weight lifting, aerobic exercises, and yoga, can help deal with the fatigue. The treatments take a heavy toll on the body that leaves the body in a very weak state. It takes time to rebuild the muscle tone and endurance that one had before receiving the cancer diagnosis. Additionally, there are medical interventions that may mitigate the fatigue.
tient is in remission, all of that attention goes away. This might lead to feelings of abandonment or isolation. This might not make sense to you, but as we have explained countless times in these articles, emotions are not based on logic.
Another factor is survivor’s guilt. When one has cancer, one automatically joins a community of people who have cancer. Not everyone who has had cancer survives, and the guilt one may feel for surviving when others have not may trigger depression.
Furthermore, we mentioned earlier that one may experience significant fatigue after surviving cancer. The inability to bounce back to one’s level of performance before the cancer diagnosis may really weigh on a person’s mind. Feelings of inadequacy can easily crop up in such a situation, and the road from there to clinical depression is not a long one at all.
Fear of recurrence is also a lingering thought that weighs on the minds of cancer survivors. Even if many years have passed since going into remission, there still may be triggers that can make these feelings resurface.
An additional problem that may plague a cancer survivor is their mental health. One would think that the joy and relief one feels after surviving a challenge to one’s very life would boost their spirits and make them feel nothing other than happiness. Alas, we human beings are complicated creatures and one’s mood and emotions are much more complex than we would expect.
There are several factors that may lead to depression in survivors. When one is going through cancer treatments, everyone rallies around you and you feel loved and taken care of. Once a pa-
For some people, these thoughts and feelings will slowly dissipate. But from some people, the mental health challenges may persist. Besides the conventional methods of dealing with one’s mental health, cancer survivors can especially benefit from meeting with groups of other survivors.
Life is a journey, and physical and mental illness is also a journey. Successfully navigating the twists and turns that life presents us is never easy. With persistence and determination, you can pass the test.
This is a service of Relief Resources. Relief is an organization that provides mental health referrals, education, and support to the frum community. Rabbi Yisrael Slansky is director of the Baltimore branch of Relief. He can be contacted at 410-448-8356 or at yslansky@reliefhelp.org
W E D D I N G P A C K A G E
The Bartender’s Gripe Living Kiddush Hashem
RBy Rabbi Shraga Freedman
abbi Bernstein (not his real name) met Rav Shmuel Kamenetzky at a wedding. At the chosson’s tish, he approached Rav Shmuel and asked for a few minutes of his time. “I will be glad to speak to you,” the rosh yeshiva said graciously. “After the chuppah, let us meet in the reception hall; we should have some time to speak at that point.”
A short time later, Rabbi Bernstein found himself following Rav Shmuel as the crowd made its way toward the chuppah. As they passed through the spacious lobby, where an African American gentleman was manning the bar, Rav Shmuel paused to greet the bartender with a smile. “How are you today?” the rosh yeshiva asked politely.
“Not good at all!” the bartender blurted in an embittered tone. “But I’m sure you don’t really care,” he added, with more than a tinge of resentment in his voice. “Everyone greets me to be polite, but no one actually has any interest in hearing about how I am doing.”
Rav Shmuel looked at the man with an expression of sincerity. “I really do care, and I really do want to hear about what is troubling you. I am going to officiate at this wedding ceremony, but when it is over, I will come back to speak to you.”
After the chuppah, Rabbi Bernstein headed into the main hall to meet with the rosh yeshiva. After he had waited for about twenty minutes, he
returned to the lobby to search for the rosh yeshiva, and he was surprised to find Rav Shmuel seated on a barstool and listening intently as the bartender shared his tale of woe.
Rav Shmuel Kamenetzky’s conduct exemplifies the Rambam’s description (Hilchos Yesodei HaTorah 5:11) of how a talmid chacham should behave—living entirely beyond reproach and going beyond the letter of the law in all his actions, “so that everyone praises him, loves him, and desires to emulate his deeds, thereby sanctifying the Name of Hashem.” His conversation with that non-Jewish bartender was a living example of how a talmid chacham strives to bring honor to Hashem through every interaction.
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.
TJH Centerfold
Things You Will Miss About School
The 7:00 a.m. alarm — There’s nothing quite like being jolted awake by a siren disguised as your phone
Group projects — Especially doing 100% of the work while everyone else contributes “vibe”
The smell of the lunchroom — A rich bouquet of tater tots, spilled milk, and something that they claim is chicken.
That one teacher who thinks they’re a stand-up comedian — “Pop quiz!” Haha...no, seriously.
End-of-class packing panic — The last two minutes of class: 50% stuffing your bag, 50% existential dread
Fire drills in the rain — Because what’s better than standing in a soggy line during third period?
Cracking the code of your report card — “What does ‘approaching expectations’ really mean?”
Gym class basketball — Where everyone suddenly forgets how arms work
You Gotta Be Kidding Me
Why did the computer teacher retire? He lost his drive.
The one working water fountain — 600 students. One spout. Hunger Games: Hydration Edition
Standardized testing week — You’ll miss bubbling in your soul onto a Scantron
Hallway traffic jams — Just like NYC rush hour but with backpacks and snack bags and very smelly armpits
The thrill of catching the last seat on the bus — Bonus points if it’s not sticky
Lifting weights every morning- Your 24-pound knapsack, filled with who-knows-what
Seeing your friends every day — Okay, this one you’ll actually miss. A lot.
Riddle Me This
Everyone is really excited for the last day of school at Yeshivas Zay Gezunt. The students, though, still really don’t know their way around. There are four classrooms, and each has exactly one door. Every door leads to a hallway—but only one hallway leads out of the school.
The principal says:
“Room A leads to Room B.”
“Room B leads to Room C.”
“Room C leads to Room D.”
“Room D leads to freedom.”
But one of his statements is false.
Which room should you enter first if you want to escape, and how do you know?
D leads to freedom. This forms a valid path out of the school, beginning in Room B. Any other assumption would either create a contradiction or not lead to freedom. Therefore, to escape the school, you should begin in Room B and follow the true path through Rooms C and D to freedom. Have a great summer!
Room C, Room C leads to Room D, and Room
“Room A leads to Room B”—is the false one, then the rest must be true: Room B leads to
The principal made four statements, but one of them is false. If we assume the first statement—
Answer: The correct room to start in is Room B.
Bye-Bye School Trivia
1. What’s the average number of hours a U.S. student spends in school per year?
a. 691
b. 842
c. 1,231
d. 1,570
2. What country has the longest school year, averaging 220 school days?
a. United States
b. Finland
c. Japan
d. Canada
3. Aside for the Rocky Mountains, Colorado also boasts a short school year. When did the Denver School District end school this year?
a. April 17
b. May 15
c. May 28
d. June 4
5. What state was the first to make school mandatory?
a. Virginia
b. New York
c. Massachusetts
d. Pennsylvania
6. What famous inventor only had three months of formal schooling?
a. Benjamin Franklin
b. Nikola Tesla
c. Thomas Edison
d. Steve Jobs
4. According to studies, what’s the most commonly used locker combination in American schools?
a. 10-20-30
b. 12-24-48
c. 0-0-0
d. 1-2-3
5-6 correct: You are an A student! You are probably sad that the school year’s over. Don’t worry – before you know it, you will be back to e=mc²! (I hope I didn’t throw you off with the exclamation point.)
2-4 correct: I bet I can guess your locker code— zero, zero, zero.
0-1 correct: I bet I can guess your scores on your last four tests – zero, zero, zero, zero.
Notable Quotes “Say What?!”
Donald Trump is America’s Hitler.
- Rep. Eric Swalwell (D-CA) at a “No Kings Day” rally
This is what rage does – it gives you a license to do things and say things you would not ordinarily do or say. And what these people won’t admit… is that they like it, and that they need it, and that it’s contagious and it’s addictive. That’s what rage is.
- FOX News contributor and law professor Jonathan Turley talking about Democrats holding “No King Day” rallies against Trump
Most governors would see looting, mayhem and attacks on police officers as problems to fix. California Gov. Gavin Newsom sees them as a means to boosting his presidential ambitions.
- Victor Joecks, Las Vegas Review-Journal
[Newsom] downplayed the initial destruction by noting state and local officials “sent our police officers to help keep the peace and, with some exceptions, they were successful.” That’s like saying that the Titanic had an uneventful voyage with some exceptions.
- ibid.
Some people use life’s lemons to make lemonade. Newsom is using burning Waymo taxis to make his case to be president. What a riot.
- ibid.
If you throw a brick, a firebomb, or point a gun at one of our deputies, we will notify your family where to collect your remains because we will kill you graveyard dead. We’re not going to play.
– Florida’s Brevard County Sheriff Wayne Ivey at a press conference with Florida Attorney General James Uthmeier warning anti-immigration protesters not to try in Florida what they did in California
If you try to mob rule a car in Brevard County, gathering around it, refusing to let the driver leave...in our county, you’re most likely going to get run over and dragged across the street. If you spit on us, you’re going to the hospital and then jail. If you hit one of us, you’re going to the hospital and jail and most likely get bitten by one of our big, beautiful dogs that we have here.
- ibid.
The objective is not to contain the war. The objective is to win the war.
- Israeli ambassador to the U.S. Yechiel Leiter on ABC News
Look, 80 years ago, we had a little man with a mustache running around Europe and nobody believed him when he said he was going to destroy the Jewish people. We lost 6 million. Now we’ve got a crazed new Hitler running around the Middle East saying he’s going to destroy us. We have to take him at face value. That’s his intention. He says it every day. He’s got a concrete plan to destroy us. This isn’t a joke. This is very serious for us. It’s existential. – ibid.
Everybody knows that when the Israelis try to retard the Iranian nuclear weapon program, the Israelis are doing the world a huge service. So why doesn’t the British government just come out and say what they believe and what everybody knows?
I’ll tell you why: Because it’s all about managing the growing anti-Israeli feeling in the Labour Party, the growing antisemitism, and it’s nothing to do with the national interest.
- Former British Prime Minister Boris Johnson
The real divide isn’t between people who support Israel and people who support Iran or the Palestinians. The real divide is between those who casually encourage violence, and those who seek to prevent it — between warmongers and peacemakers. Who are the warmongers? They would include anyone who’s calling Donald Trump today to demand air strikes and other direct U.S. military involvement in a war with Iran. On that list: Sean Hannity, Mark Levin, Rupert Murdoch, Ike Perlmutter and Miriam Adelson. At some point, they will all have to answer for this, but you should know their names now.
– Tweet by Tucker Carlson
Somebody please explain to kooky Tucker Carlson that, IRAN CANNOT HAVE A NUCLEAR WEAPON! AMERICA FIRST means many GREAT things, including the fact that, IRAN CANNOT HAVE A NUCLEAR WEAPON.
MAKE AMERICA GREAT AGAIN!!!
- President Trump, responding on Truth Social
From L.A. to Rafah, there is one common oppressor — death to the colonial empire!
- The daughter of Ilhan Omar (D-MN) —the America-hating member of Congress— speaking at an anti-ICE rally in L.A., calling for the death of America, to whose shores her nasty mother fled due to oppression in Somalia, proving once again that the fruit doesn’t fall far from the tree
Argentina will support Israel with all our force.
- Argentina’s President Javier Milei speaking in the Knesset
Unfortunately, the same cannot be said for much of the international community that is being manipulated by terrorists and turning victims into perpetrators. It is important to understand that we are in the midst of a battle between good and evil, and we began to lose this battle when we began to not distinguish between the two. The international community must urgently reconnect with its moral compass. To decide, one only needs to look at the facts: on the one hand, the barbaric terrorism that only kills and destroys, and on the other, the only stronghold in the region where there is freedom and democracy.
- ibid.
I see the history of the Middle East in the last 39 years as a showdown between two people: Bibi Netanyahu and Ayatollah Khomeini. Prime Minister Netanyahu tried to eliminate Iran’s nuclear program, and Khomeini tried to eliminate Israel.
- Amit Segal, senior political analyst for Channel 12, on the Call me Back podcast
On October 7, 2023, it looked like Khomeini was on his way to succeed. 620 days later, it looks like for the first time, Netanyahu is about to succeed in his mission of life –which is to take care of the biggest threat to the Jewish people since the Holocaust, or maybe even including the Holocaust, because when fundamentalist Muslims have deadly weapons, they have them to use them against the Jews.
- ibid.
On October 7, it was Toyota vehicles, knives and Kalashnikov rifles. In a few weeks, it was supposed to be a nuclear bomb. This is why Netanyahu actually approved the plans to attack Iran’s nuclear program. So Netanyahu, who devastatingly failed on October 7, was the only one to survive and convinced the military establishment to fulfill his life’s mission.
– ibid.
President Trump on CNN:
Trump: We, of course, support Israel, obviously, and supported it like nobody has ever supported it. Iran should have listened to me when I said – you know I gave them, I don’t know if you know but I gave them a 60day warning and today is day 61. They should now come to the table to make a deal before it’s too late. It will be too late for them. You know the people I was dealing with are dead, the hardliners.
CNN’s Danna Bash: This is as a result of the attack last night?
Trump: They didn’t die of the flu; they didn’t die of Covid.
Board with what’s being served?
(NOT ANYMORE)
Dating Dialogue What Would You Do If…
Moderated by Jennifer Mann, LCSW of The Navidaters
Dear Navidaters,
When I was in high school, I had a little sister in a big sister-little sister program. I remember going to their house, and it felt very dark. It was a completely disheveled house and very not happy. I always tried the best that I could to take my little sister out and help her experience fun and exciting things. It is now many years later. One of my best friends just told me that she is engaged to a guy. It happens to be this guy is the brother of my “little sister.”
I feel like I’m crawling out of my skin, like I need to tell her what I experienced years ago going to their house. But on the other hand, I really don’t want to ruin anything and be blamed for it later. Hopefully you all can help me with your sage advice.
Thank you so much.
Sarah*
Disclaimer: This column is not intended to diagnose or otherwise conclude resolutions to any questions. Our intention is not to offer any definitive conclusions to any particular question, rather offer areas of exploration for the author and reader. Due to the nature of the column receiving only a short snapshot of an issue, without the benefit of an actual discussion, the panel’s role is to offer a range of possibilities. We hope to open up meaningful dialogue and individual exploration.
The Panel
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”
The Rebbetzin
Rebbetzin Faigie Horowitz, M.S.
Sarah, contributing to the breakup of an engagement is a serious matter. It
seems your teenage self sensed darkness and saw mess in that home many years ago. You did not identify dysfunction, abuse, or neglect then but felt that the girl needed fun and excitement. Yes, you were young then and probably did not see red flags but sensed a disturbing tone and perhaps a need to protect the girl.
Think things through now. What was it that you saw/sensed? What is real or was it vague? Decide if your teenage impressions were serious enough to take the question now to a rav whom you trust. Methinks you are still not able to identify warning signs years later.
The Shadchan
Michelle Mond
Dear Sarah,
I’m inclined to think that you are an empath; you feel people’s and places’ energies stronger and deeper than others. You are attuned to the energy in a room that most people don’t even notice is there. You are highly intuitive, and a good way to describe the way you process the emotions of people around you is that
Good intentions can cause severe, unintended, negative consequences.
of an emotional sponge. You soak it all in, whether you like it or not. If I am correct in this assessment, read on.
There are many people who may have gone into that same house, perhaps thought something fleeting, but had not picked up on the dark energy that you did. Your thoughts and feelings are very real, however, you must know that not everyone picks up on these feelings. You have a gift that many other people don’t have.
Your friend is engaged to this guy already. That already tells me that she has met his parents, has been to his home, and experienced an updated version of what you had experienced there years ago.
There are two possible scenarios here: 1) It is quite possible things have shifted for the better and the home is a happy place now. Think back to moments in your own life. Have there been years when things were particularly difficult and the tides ended up turning? Most people have experiences like this. It is highly likely you entered the home during a difficult period and picked up on the negative energy which indelibly affected your perception of them. This does not make them bad people. This does not make their home as it is now, a terrible place to be.
2) Their home has the same negative and dark energy, however, your friend has not picked up on it simply because she does not feel it, or, it does not bother her. You can acknowledge that your extra feeling “power” which you as an empath possess grants you something that she
does not have. There is no reason for you to put a damper on her engagement based on those feelings you have felt.
One last closing note for you and our readership: your friend is an adult and is her own person. I know it can feel difficult to stand by when you see a friend who is engaged to a guy or girl that you have random thoughts or comments you would like to express about him/her or their family. It is very important to practice the act of self-restraint. Unless this thing you want to express can help prevent them from getting into a dangerous situation, your opinions are just that –your opinions. Your opinions are created based on your own background and life experiences. Your friends come from a different place and are wired differently. As we can see in this case: she is an empath picking up on an energy that her friend has not tapped into. It is for this reason it is important to be happy for our friends and be there for them when they need us. They don’t need unsolicited comments on the people they are dating or engaged to.
The Zaidy
Dr. Jeffrey Galler
Let’s analyze this situation. You are wondering if it’s a good idea to ruin the happiest moment in your best friend’s life because her boyfriend grew up in a home that was dark and disheveled?!?
I am amazed how some “friends” are able to convince themselves that they are doing something “good” when they are actually behaving very maliciously.
How many potentially wonderful relationships have been ruined by helpful “friends” who callously, or even jealously, remark:
“Oh. That’s who you’re dating? I know about him. He’s not for you.”
“Did you know that he once dated Rivka? She said he was very stingy.”
“I heard that he has a very sketchy history.”
My advice: Unless you personally know about serious issues, like criminal activity, severe mental illness, drug addiction, or immorality, don’t say anything.
Pulling It All Together
The Navidaters
Dating and Relationship Coaches and Therapists
Dear Sarah,
First of all, I just want to say I really feel your heart in this. You’re remembering something that stayed with you for a long time. You’re holding concern, and you’re also trying not to cause harm. That’s a tender space to be in, and I can sense how much thought you’re putting into it.
Here’s what I’d invite you to consider. Our childhood homes are chapters in a
story, not the whole book. What you witnessed all those years ago might have been a tough time for that family, but it doesn’t necessarily tell you who your little sister, or her brother, has become.
That said, if something from that time left you feeling unsettled, it makes sense that it’s stirring something in you now. It’s human to want to protect the
people we love. But protection doesn’t always mean speaking up. Sometimes it means sitting with the feeling, getting clear on what it’s really about, and deciding whether it still holds meaning in the present.
If your friend is someone you’re close to, you can gently say something like, “This might sound random, but I was in a big sister program in high school and your fiancé’s sister was my little sister. I’ve been thinking about what I remember from that time and just wanted to check in with you.” You’re not judging or making assumptions. You’re simply sharing a memory that’s resurfaced and
It’s human to want to protect the people we love.
In this case, Sarah, may I suggest that instead of derailing your friend’s relationship and casting a cloud over your friend’s happiness, be proud that her fiancée has been able to transcend a difficult upbringing.
Try to see the positives in his ability to rise above his difficult upbringing and build a healthy, loving future with her. Why speak badly about the young man?
Did you forget how Miriam, one of the saintliest women in our history, was severely punished for speaking lashon hara?
Don’t fall into that trap. Perhaps you mean well. But good intentions can cause severe, unintended, negative consequences. As George Bernard Shaw famously wrote, “The road to hell is paved with good intentions.”
offering it with care.
She might already know about his background and feel confident in the man he is today. Or she might share something she’s been wondering about, too. Either way, your role here is to show up in honesty and kindness, which you’re already doing.
People grow. Families shift. Stories evolve. Sometimes, all we’re meant to do is name what’s true for us, gently and with love, and then trust others to do what’s right for them.
Warmly, Jennifer Mann, LCSW
Common Cents
By Elliot Pepper, CPA, CFP®, MST
Getting Out Of Our Own Way: How We Can Be Our Own Worst Enemy When It Comes To Money Habits
Most of us don’t need a villain in our financial story—we’ve already got one. It’s us.
From impulse buys and FOMO investing to the classic “I’ll start saving next year” excuse, our own behavior is often the biggest obstacle to financial success. The good news? Once we understand the traps we set for ourselves, we can start sidestepping them.
Let’s talk about how to get out of our own way.
The Psychology of Sabotage Money isn’t just math—it’s emotion. We know we should contribute to our Roth IRA, stick to a budget, and avoid high-interest debt. But knowledge doesn’t always equal action.
Why? Because we’re wired with cognitive biases and short-term instincts that often backfire. Here are a few of the usual suspects:
• Present Bias: We value today’s rewards more than tomorrow’s goals. That’s how we justify $11 lattes, new shoes we don’t need, or skipping contributions to our retirement accounts. It feels better to spend now than to wait—even when waiting leads to better outcomes.
• Loss Aversion: Psychologists Daniel Kahneman and Amos Tversky discovered we feel the pain of a loss about twice as strongly as the pleasure of a gain. That explains why investors panic during market dips—losing $1,000 feels worse than making $1,000 feels good.
• Overconfidence: We believe we’re the exception. That we can “beat the market,” pick the next big stock, or fix our financial habits without changing anything else. Spoiler alert: we’re not.
• Status Quo Bias: It’s easier to do nothing than to do something—even if that something is clearly better. This is why so many people stick with default 401(k) options or leave money in savings accounts earning next to nothing.
Understanding these behaviors is the first step. But awareness alone doesn’t change behavior—we need systems, strategies, and a little compassion for ourselves, too.
Real-World Examples of Self-Sabotage
Let’s bring these biases to life. You might recognize some of these scenarios in yourself:
• The “I Deserve It” Splurge: After a long workweek, you decide you’ve “earned” a new TV, dinner out, and a shopping spree. But your savings account says otherwise. This is present bias in action—trading long-term stability for shortterm dopamine hits.
• The Fearful Investor: After watching the market drop 10%, you pull your money out to “protect it,” only to miss the recovery that follows. You locked in your losses—thanks to loss aversion and a dose of recency bias.
• The Raise That Disappeared: You got a $10,000 raise last year. So why does it still feel like you’re living paycheck to paycheck? That’s lifestyle inflation—your spending rose as fast as your income, wiping out any real financial progress.
• The Ostrich Strategy: Bills piling up? Credit card debt creeping higher? Rather than confront it, you avoid it. Ignoring the problem feels easier in the moment, but it always makes things worse in the long run.
We don’t do these things because we’re lazy or irresponsible. We do them because we’re human. But we can build systems to protect ourselves from…ourselves.
How to Break the Cycle
You don’t have to overhaul your entire financial life in one heroic weekend. Small, consistent changes often beat big, unsustainable goals. Here are some tools that work with your psychology, not against it:
1. Automate Everything You Can
Set up automatic transfers into your savings account. Enroll in auto-investing for your retirement. Schedule bill payments so you never miss a due date. Automation reduces the mental load and removes the temptation to spend what you could be saving.
2. Visualize Your Goals
Want to save for a home, a vacation, or early retirement? Create a visual tracker. Apps like YNAB, Northbrook Favorite – Monarch, or simple spreadsheets with progress bars can tap into your brain’s reward system, making saving feel like a game and not a chore.
3. Add Friction to Bad Habits
Make your worst money habits slightly harder. Unlink your credit card from oneclick checkout. Create a 24-hour rule before any purchase over $100. If you want to spend impulsively, make it inconvenient
4. Gamify Good Behavior
Reward yourself for meeting financial goals. Saved $1,000 this month? Treat yourself to something small. Paid off a credit card? Celebrate with a nice dinner. Positive reinforcement can go a long way in habit formation.
5. Use Identity-Based Habits
Instead of saying “I’m trying to save more,” say “I’m someone who takes control of their money.” Shift your identity to match your goals, and the behaviors start to follow.
6. Build a Financial Support Team
Whether it’s a spouse, a friend, or a financial planner, having someone to talk to keeps you grounded. We’re often better at managing other people’s finances than our own—so borrow some outside perspective.
Beating Yourself with Kindness
Here’s a truth we don’t hear often enough: You are not behind. You are not a failure. You are not the only one who has made money mistakes.
Instead of shame, try curiosity.
• Why did I overspend this month?
• What emotion was I feeling when I made that choice?
• How can I change my environment to make the right choice easier next time?
These are the kinds of questions that lead to growth—not guilt. Personal finance is deeply personal. Your journey doesn’t need to look like anyone else’s. The goal isn’t perfection—it’s progress.
The Takeaway You don’t need to be a financial genius to win with money. You just need to stop tripping over your own behavior. Set yourself up with systems that align with how your brain actually works and not how you wish it worked.
When we get out of our own way, our money finally has the space to do what it’s meant to: grow, support our goals, and bring us peace.
Because financial success isn’t about avoiding every mistake. It’s about making fewer of them and bouncing back better when we do.
Subscribe to Common Cents digitally on LinkedIn.
The decision to start saving and investing is yours, but the “how” can be hard. Email commoncents@northbrookfinancial.com to schedule a financial planning consultation with our team.
Elliot Pepper, CPA, CFP®, MST is Co-Founder of Northbrook Financial, a Financial Planning, Tax, and Investment Management Firm. He has developed and continues to teach a popular Financial Literacy course for high school students.
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School of Thought
Ending the School Year 5785, 2024-2025
By Etti Siegel
Dear Readers,
As we close out another school year, I find myself reflecting on the moments, the challenges, and most of all, the people who make the learning community I belong to what it is. I’m filled with gratitude – gratitude for the students who bring energy and curiosity into our classrooms, for the families who entrust us with their children’s growth, and most especially for the extraordinary principals, teachers, and staff I have the privilege of working with every single day.
One of the great gifts of my work is the chance to step into so many schools, each with its own culture, strengths, and stories. And yet, the more schools I visit and get to work in, the more I see how much we all share. The core values, the passion for teaching, the dedication to students, and the desire to help children become their best selves are constants. The challenges may differ here and there, the minhagim might be slightly different, pronunciation of Hebrew words might sound different… but the heart behind the work is the same. Being part of this larger fabric of education, woven together by such committed and inspiring individuals, is something I never take for granted.
This year, like every year, has brought its share of lessons. Some have been humbling, others affirming, and all have been meaningful. One of the most powerful reminders is this: as educators, we cannot care more about a child than the child’s parent. It’s a hard truth, but an important one. At the same time, I’ve seen time and again that many parents simply don’t realize when something is happening that should raise concern. Life is busy. Responsibilities are heavy. Even the most attentive parents can miss things. Our role isn’t to replace their care, but to help them see what we see, with empathy, patience, and trust. That kind of partnership takes time to build, but it’s essential.
Another lesson that’s become even clearer to me is this: people are inherently good. Especially our mechanchim and mechanchos. Teachers don’t come to school each day for the paycheck. (In some schools, they are behind in pay, and they come anyway, and teach with love, anyway!) They come because they care. Because they believe in the power of learning, in the potential of each child, and in the hope that today might be the day a breakthrough in learning or relationships happen. When parents approach teachers with that understanding, that we are all here for their child’s best, it becomes so much easier to work together. We are not on opposing sides. We are all on the same team.
To every teacher who stayed late, revised a lesson, made a phone call, or offered kindness when it was hard, you are seen and you are appreciated.
At the same time, educators must remember that every student is someone’s whole world. Parents want their children to be happy. They may not always see the long view we hold as educators. They are focused on the “now,” and that perspective matters. We have the opportunity to help them see further, just as they remind us that we are teaching a child who is loved.
Ultimately, what makes a school strong isn’t found in test scores or lesson plans, it’s found in relationships. The more openly we communicate, the more deeply we listen, the more generously we trust, the better we serve our students.
So to every teacher who stayed late, revised a lesson, made a phone call, or offered kindness when it was hard,
you are seen and you are appreciated. Working with me means you gave up time, and I hope you felt it was worth it. And as I tried to share strategies and ideas in pedagogy with you, you taught me so much.
To every parent who asked questions, shared insights, and stayed engaged, your partnership matters more than you know. Your letters and comments made me research, grow, learn, and struggle to say what I want to say better and more clearly. I even appreciated being stopped when you saw me and shared a thought, for I know that meant an article I wrote made you stop and think as well. That’s collaboration at its best!
To every administrator who held the vision and guided the journey with wisdom and empathy, thank you for your leadership, and for allowing me into your hallowed walls. Thank you for meeting with me and helping me tailor my coaching to the needs in the school.
And to every student who showed up and tried again and again, to learn, grow, and do your best, you are the reason we, teachers, principals, parents, and coaches do what we do.
Here’s to learning, to growth, and to everything we’ll carry forward into the year ahead.
Have a wonderful, rejuvenating, and thoroughly enjoyable summer.
Signing off until September, iy”H, but feel free to keep the letters coming!
- Etti
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.
