TUESDAY
Before doing outdoor activities such as gardening, camping, hiking, and playing, consider using repellents with DEET on your clothes and skin.
Modify your landscape to create tick free zones by mowing grass often and regularly removing leaf litter, moist plant litter, brush, and weeds.
After coming indoors, check your clothes and exposed skin for ticks.
“Maryland is in the top 20% of US states with the highest reported
If you find a tick on your body, remove it immediately by grasping it with tweezers only (do not touch the tick with your bare hands), as close to the skin as possible and pulling it straight out.
Not every tick carries Lyme disease, but to avoid the potential for the disease, send the tick to a lab immediately. If caught early enough and the tick tests positive as a carrier of Lyme disease, you can prevent getting Lyme disease by taking certain medications (e.g., doxycycline).
Seek medical attention and speak with your doctor if you develop a rash at the site of the bite between 3 to 30 days after the bite and/or if you develop a fever.
“Nine new germs spread by mosquitoes and ticks have been discovered or introduced since 2004.”
CDC.gov, May 2018
“The incidence of Lyme disease in the United States has nearly doubled since 1991, from 3.74 reported cases per 100,000 people to 7.21 reported cases per 100,000 people in 2018.”
EPA, August 2022
CDC's data only represents confirmed cases, the actual quantity of Lyme disease cases
This ad should be a zechus refuah sheleimah for Layla Aynav bas Rachel, Rena Esther Bas Yaffa Gitta, and Sara Cherna Chaya bas Eta Chana. The Chesed Fund Limited is dedicated in memory of Mordechai & Rebecca Kapiloff, ה׳׳ע Dr. Bernard Kapiloff, ה׳׳ע, and Rabbi Norman & Louise Gerstenfeld, ה׳׳ע Project Ezra of Greater Baltimore, Inc. is dedicated in memory of M. Leo Storch, and Hannah Storch, ה׳׳ע PREPARING OUR COMMUNITY TODAY FOR
This past Shabbos, the Baltimore community was honored to hear Divrei Chizzuk from the renowned magid, Rabbi Paysach Krohn. Rabbi Krohn shared a compelling story that recently happened.
A father of six young children needed to keep them entertained while his wife prepared the house for Pesach and wanted some kid-free time. He brainstormed various activities, but many were either too costly or too brief. He then came up with a creative idea: visiting Newark Airport. Knowing that his kids, who never flew, would find the sight of planes taking off and landing exciting, he chose it as their destination. Additionally, the hour-long drive, each way, to the airport would help pass the time.
The father parked in one of the airport lots and took a tram toward the terminals. The children were thrilled by the tram ride and the bustling airport scenery. During the ride, a smartly dressed pilot boarded the tram, immediately captivating the children’s attention. They struck up a conversation with him, and the pilot asked where they were flying. The father replied, “Nowhere, we’re just here to watch the planes.”
The pilot then shared his story with the father. He recounted his years of extensive travel, visiting destinations worldwide, while fully immersed in his career. However, this dedication came at a significant personal cost—he missed crucial milestones in his two children’s lives, including birthdays, graduations, sports games, and performances. About a year
ago, his son called to inform him of his upcoming wedding but said he wasn’t invited. “You missed everything in my life, and I don’t need you suddenly to take part.” Recently, his daughter expressed similar sentiments, wanting nothing to do with him. The pilot confessed his deep regret over missing out on his children’s lives and expressed admiration for the father’s commitment to his kids. As the pilot exited the tram, with tears in his eyes, he exclaimed, “I’ve gone everywhere and have gotten nowhere, you say you’re going nowhere but you’ve gone everywhere.”
Lag B’Omer emphasizes the importance of Bain Adam L’chaveiro, interpersonal relationships, highlighted by the deaths of Rabbi Akiva’s students who struggled in this area. While this is a major focus as we strive to improve, it’s essential to remember that our relationships with our children also fall under Bain Adam L’Chaveiro. If we want our children to succeed in life, maintaining a strong connection with them through spending quality time together is crucial. By nurturing these bonds, we provide them with the foundation they need to thrive and ensure that our efforts today will be reflected in their futures. As we celebrate Lag B’Omer, let us be reminded of the importance of being present in our children’s lives, guiding them with love and attention so they may truly go everywhere in life.
Wishing everyone a peaceful Shabbos.
Aaron Menachem
What a wonderful day it was yesterday for the seventh and eighth grade robotics teams!
The bus pulled out at nine in the morning, on its way to Cherry Hill, NJ, where we were joined by ten other schools. 54 teams competed for three hours for a spot in the finals and the chance to win a trophy for their school.
The robots worked tirelessly, the 6-eighth grade teams and 2-seventh grade teams showcasing their skills and teamwork.
Bais Yaakov walked away with two trophies, one first place and one third place, won by two eighth grade teams.
Congratulations to all the hardworking seventh and eighth graders!
Seventh Grade:
Ahuva Feldman
Aviva Goldburgh
Shira Haber
Perri Klein
Tehilla Levin
Yona Lichtman
Malkie Lipnitsky
Ahuva Passe
Chava Pickett
Hila Roth
Neima Roth
Shani Rothschild
Shira Safren
Leah Shnaidman
Chaya Yasnyi
Kayla Zuckerbrod
Eighth Grade:
Esther Leah Brooker
Yonina Dancziger
Chaya Reeva Goldfinger
Meira Goodhart
Raya Gross
Tehilla Gross
Devora Ifrah
Kayla Katz
Molly Klein
Leora Segelman
Tobi Smith
Dassa Steger
Meira Weiss
Atara Wolman
Volunteers took time from their busy schedules and repaired matzeivos and trimmed trees at the German Hill Road Jewish Cemetery, in Dundalk. Participants included the organizer Steven Venick and Barry Dubin,
Jeremy Diamond, Larry Franks, Chen Goodman and his son, Hillel, Pikesville Tree Service’s Levi Lowenstein, Ephy Rosenbloom, and Sholom Rosenbloom.
Photo Credit: Sholom Rosenbloom
“If you have to put someone on a pedestal, put teachers. They are society’s heroes.” –Guy Kawasaki
Jewish Educational Services couldn’t agree more. In honor of National Teacher’s Appreciation Week celebrated this year May 6-10, JES, an agency of The Associated, recognized the important work teachers do with Todah Teacher Week. Educators entered to win a daily raffle for exciting prize packages. With almost 600 entries, five educators won a prize package and every teacher who entered received a $10 gift card to The Fresh Market.
Many businesses joined with JES to say “Thank you” by donating gift certificates for the prizes.
Beauty Package donated by:
Adina B
JCC
Kayla Designs
Ooh La La Sassy Glass
Valued at $600
Shabbos Package donated by:
Confetti Tableware
Family Package donated by:
Avi Dear Visuals
B’Dazzle
Game Haven
Kiki’s Boots
Valued at $500
Restaurant Package donated by:
David Chu’s
Knish Shop
Mama Leah’s/Ta’am Thai/Goldberg’s Bagels
Milk and Honey
Valued at $225
The Hive Linens
Messing Candlelights
Mimi Boutique
Shelly’s Blossoms
The Ivy Bookshop Valued at $400
Grocery Package donated by:
Seven Mile Market Valued at $200
JES extends a hearty TODAH RABAH to every educator in Baltimore’s early childhood, day and religious schools and value your commitment
On Sunday night, May 12th, 50 women attended N’shei’s Women’s Health Workshop at Shomrei Emunah. The purpose of the interactive workshop was to learn from experts how to optimize their health through nutrition and the environment in order to go from living to thriving, through a Torah perspective.
The evening began with an introduction from N’shei. They spoke about N’shei’s role in bringing beneficial trainings and speakers to the women of our community.
We were most privileged to hear words of wisdom from Shomrei’s Rabbi Binyamin Marwick. As Rabbi Marwick explained, “The purpose of tonight’s workshop is to provide tools for healthy living, specifically to women, because it is you who keeps our families healthy: oneself, one’s spouse, children, and sometimes parents. Tonight’s speakers are here to give a new meaning to health through a Torah lens, how to perform mitzvos completely by making healthy life choices, how to shop for healthier
foods, including what to know about taking vitamins, inflammation and disease prevention, sleep and exercise, digestive health and a healthy gut, and how to shop for eco-friendly household items. These tools are important to prevent future illness and help keep ourselves and our families healthy.
Rabbi Marwick then recited Tehillim for cholim, IDF soldiers and the hostages.
The first speaker was Rabbi Alexander Seinfeld, lecturer and co-author of Body and Soul: the Book that’s Changing Lives. Rabbi Seinfeld shared motivation from a Torah perspective and educational and practical
implications. As Rabbi Seinfeld explained, “Everyone knows it is good sense to have good health. Not everyone knows it’s a mitzvah.” Every time you make a decision of what you should eat and what you should not eat, and every time you use the bathroom, you’re involved in a mitzvah.
The second speaker, a physician, educated the crowd regarding how to optimize one’s nutritional health, including how to shop for healthier products and read food labels. She also spoke about the importance of vitamin supplementation.
Our last speaker, Suzann Lasson, an occupational therapist and wellness
to Jewish education and salute you for choosing this path to serving the Jewish community.
Jewish Educational Services’ mission is to honor to support educators throughout the year. Through Professional Development, Coaching and Consultations, Teacher HelpLine, and Communities of Practice, they lend a supporting hand and bring attention to the amazing educators that are tasked with teaching our community’s children.
Join JES and the Baltimore Community on Wednesday, May 29th, at Celebrating Education: JES Educator Awards Ceremony and Annual Meeting. This momentous event will take place at 7:00pm at Congregation Shomrei Emunah, and pay tribute to ALL the teachers in the community who dedicate themselves to their students and to Jewish Education. Registration is still open - go to bit.ly/ CelebratingEducation2024.
consultant, spoke to the crowd about gut health and natural methods of improving one’s digestive health. She further educated the women on the benefits of clean living and eco-friendly household products, in order to lessen illness and improve one’s health.
The success of the workshop was apparent by the multitude of questions asked both during and after the speakers. At the end of the night, the women attendees made a pact to be more healthy. Most women reported they wanted to be more healthy by Shavuos. For more information from our speakers, please email: otlasson@ gmail.com
www.bit.ly/JTAPNOA
$18 Suggested Donation $18 Suggested Donation
FOR MEN & WOMEN 21+
WEDNESDAY, MAY 29 7:30 PM
BNAI JACOB SHAAREI ZION
DR. AKIVA PERLMAN
JTAP Join DR. AKIVA PERLMAN for a conversation exploring our roles as adults in the lives of our teens.
This event will also provide an opportunity to learn more about JTAP and their initiatives to support and empower young women in the community.
Akiva Perlman, PhD., is a professor and lecturer on topics of abuse, addiction, and trauma. He has educated more than a thousand frum social workers from our community and is currently serving as professor at Wurzweiler School of Social work. Dr. Perlman is the clinical director of ODA’s Wellness Center, a clinic which serves the chassidishe community in Williamsburg. He maintains a practice on Long Island where he resides with his wife Tamar and children.
OCA celebrated Israel’s 76th birthday as a school community. Students began the day with a tekes (ceremony), which included the 4th grade daglanut and the Yom Ha’atzmaut choir performance. This year’s Yom Ha’atzmaut theme at school was bravery. Soldiers in the IDF exemplify bravery to protect the land and people of Israel, so the school highlighted IDF military branches in the day’s programming for students in grades K-8. Students learned about the
roles, skills, and responsibilities of 6 different IDF branches. For example, the Golani Brigade focused on team building with an obstacle course, the Intelligence unit participated in an escape room, the Yahalom Combat Engineers enjoyed a Mission-Based Bridge Building Challenge, and so on. In the ECC, students hopped on board a flight to Israel holding their Israeli passports and flags. They traveled through Israel exploring sensory activities: visiting the Dead Sea and doing a science experiment about
how salt makes items float, building a model Kotel and writing notes they placed inside the Kotel bricks, and making homemade Israeli salad. They also had a juice bar in the ECC, which included םיזופת ץימ (orange juice) squeezed by the children, themselves.
Everyone enjoyed a delicious falafel lunch and blue and white cupcakes!
In the evening OCA, in partnership with Congregation Shomrei Emunah, hosted its annual Yom Ha’atzmaut community celebration with over 700
people in attendance. The event featured an opening tekes and carnival style booths highlighting Israel’s resilience and chesed through various organizations. Event participants visited the Shuk, prepared a Leket salad, visited an ambulance (UNITED Hatzalah), climbed up a rock wall like soldiers in the IDF, designed multi- sensory cards to send to residents in ADI, and so much more. It was a spectacular evening filled with fun for the entire family.
Kulam and the Chofetz Chaim Kollel of Silver Spring have joined forces to provide the seventh-grade boys in the community with a productive way to spend Wednesday nights. The boys came together and enjoyed ices and other great snacks while competing in ping pong, corn hole, basketball, and other fun games. Afterward, the boys benefited from Rabbi Zaks’s incredible and engaging shiur. The boys left with a feeling of connection and a spiritual high!
We look forward to continuing to find new ways to help our boys spend their time outside of school in a fun and healthy environment. For more information, be sure to check out Kulamsilverspring.org.
On Thursday, May 9 (Rosh Chodesh Iyar), 165 women, students, and children gathered for a Women’s Unity Challah Bake at Young Israel Shomrai Emunah of Silver Spring, Maryland. This inspiring, uplifting, and unifying event was organized by Yael Azran, Jessica Eizenstat, and Sarrit Kovacs - the co-chairs of the Robin Niman Mikvah Education Fund (RNMEF) programming committee of the Mikvah Emunah Society of Greater Washington. The program opened with Tehillim for the safety and healing of Am Yisrael led by Barbara Price, which were recited by all participants in unison. Then, the main part of the challah bake program was the workshop led by Giti Fredman of JustBakeIt.org from St. Louis, Missouri. Giti connected with, and captivated, participants of all ages from children as young as 7 years of age to women in their 80s, even multigenerational families were in attendance. Giti made each of the steps of making challahs and cinnamon buns interactive as well as fun and exciting. While the dough was rising, Caroline Namrow briefly spoke about Robin Niman, A”H, who
managed the Wallerstein Mikvah in Silver Spring before her petirah and was a renowned and dynamic mikvah educator and social worker who transformed the experience for women going to the mikvah in many parts of the country. The RNMEF was created in 2020 to honor Robin, A”H’s, memory and perpetuate her legacy and significant contributions she made to the practice of taharat hamishpacha (laws of family purity).
Participants enjoyed some social time and refreshments. Later, the mitzvah of hafrashat challah (taking challah) was led by Fran Broder, and Giti walked participants through the steps for braiding and basting the challahs and rolling the dough out to make delicious trays of cinnamon buns. This event reached max capacity unifying participants from all of the Silver Spring shuls and institutions, including community rebbetzins - even a waiting list had to be created. Feedback received for this program was extremely positive and community members are looking forward to our next RNMEF educational program. Stay tuned!
do. I love to share in people’s simchas. I believe baked goods are truly like a hug. They are meant for sharing. I love the whole process!
BJH: How did you come up with with the kavanos of the girls saying a bracha on and eating the challahs.
BJH: Here’s another— A BJH reader shared that her young son is so proud of himself for picking out 2 challahs each week. They pick up one
BS: One of my ultimate goals is to remember the hostages. It’s not always so easy in our day-to-day life. It’s been 7 months! It’s been a lot of time. Since I do this every week I remember it, I think about it.
Eitan Avra-
Every week in the email we specifically mention Eitan Avraham ben Efrat. He is the cousin of the Flamms, a family in our community. He was taken hostage after being shot or injured in some way while saving lives at the Nova festival. He was there as a security guard. We want him back. We want
Well said. Thank you! Any-
I know this is Hashem’s plan. And I thank Hashem for his beautiful and amazing plan. And that I get to be a part of it. I know it’s for the good. But now I want the hostages back. For more information please conbshor@sweetand-
“Bracha Shor has been bringing challah to Ner Tamid Montessori over the last few months. The teachers and other staff members absolutely love the challah and enjoy being a part of something to honor our hostages in Israel. We hope that all of the brachot and simcha that the challah bring create endless mitzvos in honor of the hostages and our soldiers in Israel.”
-Director of New Tamil Montessori
the court’s judges for Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Defense Minister Yoav Gallant, along with top Hamas leaders.
Earlier this week, Karim Khan, the chief prosecutor of the International Criminal Court, announced that he had requested arrest warrants from
According to Khan, the charges against Israel’s premier and defense chief are for the crimes of “causing extermination, causing starvation as a method of war including the denial of humanitarian relief supplies, deliberately targeting civilians in conflict.”
“We submit that the crimes against humanity charged were committed as part of a widespread and systematic attack against the Palestinian civilian population pursuant to State policy. These crimes, in our assessment, continue to this day,” said Khan in reference to Netanyahu and Gallant.
In an effort to appear “evenhanded,” the prosecutor said he is also applying for arrest warrants against Hamas leaders Yahya Sinwar and Ismail Haniyeh along with Hamas’ military chief Mohammed Deif.
The charges against the terrorist leaders included extermination, murder, hostage-taking, and assault.
“We submit that the crimes against
humanity charged were part of a widespread and systematic attack against the civilian population of Israel by Hamas and other armed groups pursuant to organizational policies,” said the statement.
Both Sinwar and Deif are believed to be hiding in Gaza as Israel tries to hunt them down. Haniyeh is based in Qatar and frequently travels across the region.
Israel is not a member of ICC, and Netanyahu and Gallant do not face any immediate risk of prosecution.
War cabinet minister Benny Gantz slammed the decision, saying that Israel’s military is complying with international law in its fighting in Gaza, calling the decision “a crime of historic proportions.”
“The State of Israel is waging one of the just wars fought in modern history following a reprehensible massacre perpetrated by terrorist Hamas on the 7th of October,” he said in a statement.
“While Israel fights with one of the strictest moral codes in history, while complying with international law and boasting a robust independent judi-
ciary, drawing parallels between the leaders of a democratic country determined to defend itself from despicable terror to leaders of a bloodthirsty terror organization is a deep distortion of justice and blatant moral bankruptcy,” Gantz said.
“The prosecutor’s position to apply for arrest warrants is in itself a crime of historic proportions to be remembered for generations,” he added.
The ICC’s decision “equates the victim with the executioner,” senior Hamas official Sami Abu Zuhri told Reuters, alleging that it encourages Israel to continue its “war of extermination” in Gaza.
Khan had visited Israel in December on an official trip. After touring some of the towns attacked by Hamas on October 7, 2023, and hearing testimonies from survivors, he said he had witnessed “scenes of calculated cruelty” and that it was clear to him the victims had been targeted because of their identities.
He also said he felt duty-bound to work with the court’s prosecutors to open investigations into Hamas’s ac-
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
8:00 am Chabad of Upper Montgomery County S
Woodside Synagogue/Ahavas Torah S YGW (High School; School-Contingent) S-F
Young Israel Ezras Israel of Potomac S Young Israel Shomrai Emunah (Sfardi) S
8:15 am Ohr Hatorah S Kehilat Pardes / Berman Hebrew Academy S-F
Silver Spring Jewish Center M-F
8:30 am Chabad of DC S Chabad of Potomac S JROC S Ohev Sholom Talmud Torah/The National Synagogue S Silver Spring Jewish Center S YGW (Summer Only) S-F
8:45 am Young Israel Shomrai Emunah S-F
9:00 am Chabad of Silver Spring S Kemp Mill Synagogue S
mincha/maariv Before Shkiah, S-TH
Beit Halevi (Sfardi)
Beth Sholom Congregation
Chabad of Potomac
Chabad of Silver Spring
Chabad of Upper Montgomery County
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, Knesset Yehoshua Woodside Synagogue/Ahavas Torah
Young Israel Ezras Israel of Potomac
Young Israel Shomrai Emunah (Asheknaz) Young Israel Shomrai Emunah (Sefarhadi) maariv
8:15 pm OSTT (OLNEY) S-Th SHC, Knesset Yehoshua M-Th
8:45 pm YGW
1:50 pm YGW Summer
2:15 pm Silver Spring Jewish Center M-F
2:20 pm YGW School Days
2:45 pm YGW S-Th
4:30 pm Ohev Shalom Talmud Torah OLNEY S-Th mincha
9:00 pm Silver Spring Jewish Center Fall/Winter
9:30 pm YGW Summer
9:45 pm
Silver Spring Jewish Center Spring/Summer
tions on October 7.
On Monday evening, Netanyahu said in a video statement that the “absurd and false warrant by the prosecutor in The Hague is directed not only against the prime minister of Israel and the defense minister but against the entire State of Israel.”
He added, “It is directed against the IDF soldiers, who are fighting with supreme heroism against the vile Hamas murderers.
“With what chutzpah do you dare compare the monsters of Hamas to the soldiers of the IDF, the most moral army in the world?” the premier queried. “With what audacity do you compare between the Hamas that murdered, burned, butchered … and kidnapped our brothers and sisters, and the IDF soldiers who are fighting a just war that is unparalleled, with a morality that is unmatched?”
He noted that the comparison between Hamas and Israel is an example of the “new antisemitism” that has been become rampant throughout the world.
Five Israeli soldiers were tragically killed by friendly fire on Wednesday, May 15, in the Gazan city of Jabaliya, with seven others sustaining injuries from the incident.
The fallen soldiers were named as Sgt. Ilan Cohen, Sgt. Daniel Chemu, Staff Sgt. Betzalel David Shashuah, Staff Sgt. Gilad Arye Boim, and Cpt. Roy Beit Yaakov.
All five soldiers were buried last Thursday, except for Ilan Cohen, a twenty-year-old Argentinian immigrant who was a student at Yeshiva Har Bracha, a program that merges
Torah learning with military service. Cohen fought in the 202nd Battalion of the Paratrooper’s Brigade and was a lone soldier.
“Ilan was a pleasant person. I was surprised by how quickly he integrated in all aspects: socially and scholastically. He didn’t let anything stop him, even when he had difficulties with the language [Hebrew],” said Barel Shevach, a rabbi at Cohen’s yeshiva, adding that he was “fearless…and Zionistic in every fiber of his being.”
Chemu, who was also a twentyyear-old lone soldier, grew up in Tiberias and was buried in Netanya. Just a few months ago, on October 26, Chemu had donated his bone marrow to save the life of a sixty-year-old woman.
“We grieve with the rest of Israel for every person who gives their life to protect us, all of us, including the five who fell yesterday,” said Tiberias community leader Avionam Gotliv. “But the fact that he came from our community, from our circles, made it even more poignant.”
Roy Beit Yaakov, the commander of the forces attacked in the friendly fire, hailed from the Israeli settlement of Eli. His father, Avidan Beit Yaakov, the village’s mayor, said that his deceased son was “a quiet and gentle combatant, humble and goal-oriented.”
Betzalel David Shashuah was buried in the Kiray Shaul cemetery in Tel Aviv, the city where he resided. Thousands attended his funeral.
“The most important thing to him was unity among the People of Israel,” Shashuah’s family wrote of him.
Gilad Arye Boim, 22, was from the settlement of Karnei Shomron. Boim’s sister, Chen Lapid, addressed the troops who mistakenly killed him and said, “We embrace you. We feel no anger toward you. We know that everything you did was for the People of Israel. Carry on with your important mission and, when you’re able, come visit us.”
Boim’s uncle, Kalman Libeskind, a well-known journalist with the Kan public broadcaster, called his late
nephew on X “a boy of light and kindness, a loyal soldier of this good land, who was killed defending the homeland.”
According to the IDF, an Israeli tank operating alongside the paratroopers in Jabaliya fired two shells at a building where they were gathered at around 7 p.m. The forces had later identified a gun barrel from one of the windows of the building and believed it was enemy forces, leading them to fire the two shells.
The IDF has confirmed the deaths of Sonthaya Oakkharasr and Sudthisak Rinthalak, two Thai nationals who were working in Kibbutz Be’eri when Hamas launched its sudden attack on southern Israel on October 7, murdering more than 1,200 Israelis, kidnapping over 250 others, and wounding thousands more.
Oakkharasr and Rinthalak were previously believed to be alive in Hamas captivity, but the IDF, on Thursday, confirmed that the two were killed on October 7, with the Hamas terror group holding onto their bodies in Gaza.
“On October 7, Hamas terrorists brutally murdered 39 Thai nationals and kidnapped 31 Thai nationals to Gaza,” said IDF Spokesman Rear Adm. Daniel Hagari. “Like them, other foreign nationals were abducted, including from Tanzania, Nepal, Mexico, the U.S., and France.”
He noted, “The terrible cruelty of Hamas was used against anyone that stood in its way, without distinction of their origin.”
Eight Thai nationals likely remain in Gaza, while 23 were freed during a short-lived hostage deal in late November.
The government of Thailand expressed its condolences to the loved ones of Oakkharasr and Rinthalak and called for “the immediate release of all remaining hostages, including the six remaining Thai nationals in Gaza, so that they may return home safely.” The Thai government added that “all sides [should] exercise their utmost efforts in negotiations leading to an urgent solution to the current humanitarian crisis in Gaza.”
According to the Hotline for Refugees and Migrants, Oakkharasr would have celebrated his 31st birthday on May 16, had he been alive.
“We share in the grief of the families of Sudthisak Rinthalak and Sonthaya Oakkharasr, who discovered this evening that their loved ones were murdered on October 7 and their bodies have been held captive ever since,” the hotline wrote on X. “In the horrific massacre carried out by Hamas on October 7, 66 immigrants were murdered — far above their proportion in the Israeli population. People who were innocent of any crime, who crossed the world to make a living and ensure a
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better future for themselves and their families.”
Around 30,000 Thai nations had been working in Israel during the October 7 massacre. Hamas currently holds 128 hostages; at least 38 have tragically passed away while in captivity. In late November, 105 abductees were freed, while three were later rescued by the IDF. The remains of twelve others were recently recovered as well.
Shani Louk, Itzhak Gelerenter, Amit Buskila, and Ron Benjamin, who were murdered on October 7 by Hamas and whose bodies were held in Gaza for over seven months, were recovered by the IDF over the weekend. Shani, Itzhak and Amit were finally laid to rest by their families on Sunday. Ron was buried on Monday.
Shani, Itzhak and Amit had been attending the Supernova music festi-
val on the tragic day of October 7. Ron was murdered while on a bike ride.
Shani, a twenty-two-year-old German-Israeli, was buried in Srigim, a town south of Beit Shemesh.
“I didn’t believe they’d be able to bring her body back, and it was a relief when the army informed us that they’d found her body and that it was complete,” said Shani’s mother, Ricarda, who spoke of her late daughter’s love of nature, dancing, sewing, and art. Shani had advocated for peace. Her funeral concluded with the playing of her song, “Home,” which includes the lyrics, “I don’t want war.”
“We did everything to achieve peace, but that has now passed,” Shani’s father, Nissim, said. “Our leadership repeats the same mistakes, without learning. [Albert] Einstein once said that only a fool does the same thing again and again and expects that the result will be different each time. If we continue to make the same mistakes of the last few decades, we will likely lose our country.”
On Sunday, thousands attended the funeral for Amit, 28, who was a fashion stylist. Her mother, Ilana, said, “I prayed for a different ending to the torment I’ve been through.”
“I was lucky to have you for 28 years,” her mother added. “You wrapped me in love, you were my inspiration… you entered the hearts of the people of Israel.”
Amit’s brother, Siel, eulogized her, saying she was “the light, the sun, she had courage and bravery. I was proud of your strength, my beloved little sister… You dreamed of conquering the world, but now your bed is made up and empty. The mirror in your room
will not see your face. The pots in the kitchen will not feel the warmth of your hands. You were killed for being Jewish.”
“You are in a good world now, and you have left us shattered,” her father, Meir, said.
Itzhak’s brother, Itay, said at his funeral, “We understood, truthfully, that we can be comforted by [the fact that] we have a grave, we have somewhere to cry, somewhere to fall apart.”
Itzhak’s daughter, Yarden Pivko, called her father a “smiling person, witty, with a sense of humor, the first dad to show up when called, a wonderful grandfather. As much as he was macho and strong and tough, with my daughters he was like butter. All his tenderness emerged. He was a wonderful person, a good friend, he totally loved life.”
She added, “We are grateful for the opportunity to say goodbye properly. There is comfort in that… This is the first time I have said ‘good morning’ since October 7, specifically on the day of my father’s funeral, because the lack
of knowledge [about him] has been too heavy a weight to walk around with and live with,” Pivko said.
of the unit were seriously wounded as a result of a blast in a booby-trapped tunnel shaft in the Rafah area.
Their deaths brought the toll of slain troops in the IDF’s ground offensive against Hamas in Gaza and in operations on the border to 282.
In a separate incident, a reservist of the 5832nd Combat Engineering Battalion was seriously wounded in Rafah after his D9 armored bulldozer was hit by an RPG.
The IDF has been fighting hard in Gaza. On Saturday morning, the military said the air force struck more than 70 targets throughout the Strip over the past day, as ground forces operat-
he was responsible for preparing the enemy for the IDF maneuver in Rafah,” the military said.
Thousands of Palestinians have been evacuated from the area. Hamas maintains a stronghold in the area, where at least four of its battalions are deployed. Israel also believes that many of the hostages taken on October 7 are being held in Rafah.
Slyder houses will be available for rent.
“Our visitors will now have an extraordinary opportunity to stay in two of the battlefield’s historic homes,” Kristina Heister, superintendent of Gettysburg National Military Park, said.
On July 2, 1863, the Civil War Battle of Gettysburg unfolded around both houses.
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and exercise regimen that is easy to maintain. She enabled me to cultivate a healthy lifestyle not only focusing on diet, but my relationship with food. Thank you Tzipora!”
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July 2.
It was most recently restored and updated in 2017. Looking to rent the three-bedroom, 1.5-bath residence? It will set you back around $400 per night.
The 1852 Slyder house, located at the base of Big Round Top, has a loft bedroom with two queen beds, one bathroom and a fully equipped kitchen. It will be available for $200 a night in high season and $165 in November and December.
The Slyder farm’s fences and stone walls were used on July 2, 1863, as defensive works for Union sharpshooters.
Sounds like a really relaxing place.
If you’re looking to become a stewardess or pilot, I would suggest you check out if Singapore Airlines has any openings.
The carrier announced last week that it recorded an annual net profit of
$1.98 billion in the 2023 to 2024 fiscal year. But it’s not keeping all that cash for itself.
The carrier will reward its employees with a bonus worth nearly eight months of salary.
Yup, you heard that right. The world’s best airline last year, according to the prestigious Skytrax World Airline Awards, really knows how to share. The airline earned that distinction for the fifth time in the 23-year
history of the awards.
Goh Choon Phong, the airline’s CEO, said the win was down to the tireless work of his team, who made “many sacrifices to ensure that SIA was ready for the recovery in air travel. That has allowed us to emerge stronger and fitter from the pandemic.”
But Singapore is not the only airline that is giving its staff a generous bonus.
Dubai’s Emirates will pay its staff a bonus equivalent to 20 weeks’ salary, according to Reuters.
They’re really flying high.
Fruit is truly a treat. But how much would spend to feed your pineapple habit? The Rubyglow pineapple, being sold by Melissa’s Produce in California, costs a whopping $395.99.
It took a long time to produce this costly crop. Del Monte, a wholesaler that sells a variety of produce but specializes in pineapple, worked for 16 years to develop the red-hued fruit. A limited crop was first available in China early this year. It recently made its debut in the United States.
Want to try this red fruit with a high price? Better hurry. There are only 5,000 of these special pineapples being produced this year. Only 3,000
will be sold in 2025.
Think spending premium pricing on produce is a bit much? Back in 2018, Oishii produced specialty strawberries which cost $50 for a pack of eight. The berries are packed in flat boxes that spotlight each individual fruit, more like a package for hand-crafted chocolate truffles than the mold-hiding plastic containers you see at a supermarket. Each fruit is supposed to be perfect.
“Even at $50, we had thousands of people on the waitlist constantly,” said Oishii CEO Hiroki Koga.
Nowadays, Oishii strawberries sell at a more affordable price.
Back in 2020, Del Monte produced the Pinkglow pineapple, which has pink flesh and comes in its own special box, perfect for gifting.
At first, the Pinkglow was sold for about $50. Today, you can get one for far less, online between around $8 and $29 — bargain prices, relatively, but still steep for a pineapple.
Melissa’s Produce, which sells ev-
erything from truffles to mangosteens to kumquats, describes the Rubyglow on its website as a “rare gem” and “the pinnacle of luxury fruit,” adding that “for the gourmand, it’s an unforgettable gift.”
At an unforgettable price.
It’s hard to do nothing all day. But you can be the best at doing nothing if you tried.
That’s what more than 100 people did on Sunday at South Korea’s Spaceout competition.
The group had to zone out for 90 minutes without falling asleep.
The event in Seoul is part physical challenge, part art piece, and part respite from South Korea’s hyper-competitive society.
Participants’ heart rates are monitored, while onlookers vote for their 10
favorite contestants. Whoever has the most stable heart rate among the 10 takes home the trophy.
Among those taking part was speed skater Kwak Yoon-gy, a double Olympic silver medalist.
“I tried out for the Olympics five times and have never taken a proper rest while training for 30 years,” said the 34-year-old short-track specialist, who took third place. “I heard this place is where I can clear my mind and rest at least during this time, so I came here thinking, ‘Wow, this is what I needed so much.’”
More than 4,000 people applied
to participate in the mind-numbing contest. One hundred seventeen people were selected – with one child in second grade participating.
The contest has been taking place annually over the past ten years. It was founded by a visual artist who calls herself Woopsyang, after she suffered from burnout.
“I wondered why I was so anxious about doing nothing,” she recalled, adding that that’s when she realized her anxiety came from comparing herself to other people leading busy lives.
“In fact, those people could also be wanting to space out and do nothing like me,” Woopsyang said. “So, I created a competition thinking that it would be nice to pause all together at the same place at the same time.”
She added, “This contest tells you that spacing out is no longer a waste of time but a time that you really need.” Kwon So-a, a freelance announcer, won this year’s contest.
She’s a real good for nothing.
What do you do if you’re working up on a roof and someone threatens to pull the ladder out from under you unless you throw down your wallet?
For Avi Mandel, Baltimore resident and owner of Park Heights Roofing, knowing how to fend off such onslaughts is one of the unexpected skills he’s had to learn on the job.
Since 1999, Park Heights Roofing has been servicing residential and commercial clients as a full-service roofing and home exterior contractor. On any given day, they have four or five crews working in Maryland and the surrounding states, on repairs, installations, inspections, siding or shingles replacement, and more. Their customers range from residential home owners to huge industrial complexes.
Being in a service industry, Mandel has experienced the gamut of clients, from the celebrity (like Ravens football player Justin Tucker) to the surprising (like the many houses of worship he has done work for over the years) to the downright creepy.
Speaking to Mandel, there were two things we wanted to know: what should we homeowners be doing to upkeep our roofs? And, as the owner of a successful business, what advice does Mandel have for business owners looking to grow?
“There are two basic things homeowners can do to avoid costly roof repairs. One, bring someone in to do a regular maintenance check of your roof – ideally once every two years. And two, don’t neglect your gutters. Cleaning your gutters about twice a
year can prevent major roof damage.”
As for his advice to business owners? Aside from figuring out how to deal with brazen thieves (his solution: “Tell them to go fly a kite like you mean it, always travel with two people, and stay out of those neighborhoods!”), Mandel has learned a lot of other useful business skills over the years. Such as the crucial element in creating a loyal client base and attract-
“As a contractor, the most important factor in building a business relationship is trust. Especially when you’re dealing with a very expensive project like a roof replacement, you need to make the client feel they can count on you, that you’ll give them a high-quality product and that you’ll be there for them through the life of the roof. The more you can personally connect, the more trust you build.”
Networking is an essential component of creating these connections. As any business owner knows, the best way to find clients and grow a business is through connecting: with people in related fields, with people who have direct contact with your client base, with people with whom you can build a mutually supportive relation-
That’s why Mandel was excited to hear that the renowned OJBA (Orthodox Jewish Builders Association) Expo would be coming to Baltimore.
“I’d heard a lot of great things about the big event in the New York area,” he says. “The frum world offers
a lot of opportunity to build networking connections, and an event like the OJBA show is the perfect forum for this.”
In addition to networking, what other advice does Mandel have for business owners? To remember that, at the end of the day, parnassa comes from Hashem. He relates an incident where he saw this message starkly.
“I’d started learning the sefer Emunah V’Bitachon with a chavrusa, since the whole bitachon/hishtadlus issue can be tricky for business owners. Well, just four weeks later, I met with a new client, and he signed on the spot for a $650K job.”
Stunned, Mandel asked him why he’d decided to hire him so quickly.
“Because I can tell you’re a man of faith,” the client replied to Mandel (who, wearing a baseball cap and using his English name, had nothing to indicate his religiosity). “And I want to support a man of faith.”
The OJBA will be running its first-ever networking event in Baltimore on June 5th at the Baltimore Convention Center.
By Rabbi Zvi Teichman
When you make a sale לעמיתך—to your fellow or make a purchase from the hand of your fellow, do not cheat each man את אחיו—his brother (ויקרא כה יד)
It’s strange that what began as a simple transaction between ‘fellow’ Jews suddenly turns in to ‘family’ business with each one careful not to cheat his ‘brother.
Truthfully, the Torah uses several terms to refer to our fellow man. At times it calls him ךער — ‘your friend’, occasionally ךתימע— ‘your fellow’, and often he is termed ךיחא— ‘your brother’.
All of them are all used in refer-
ence to one’s fellow Jew and not one’s actual brother.
There are no true synonyms in the Hebrew language since each word, however similar, has its own unique intimation and usage. Yet, strangely, here within one situation it switches mid-verse from ‘fellow’ to ‘brother’.
A few verses later the Torah repeats an almost identical prohibition.
Each of you shall not aggrieveתא ותימע—his fellow. (זי םש םש) ,
Although using the same verb as in the prior verse, here it calls for one not to inflict pain on another through caustic, insulting or embarrassing comments. But here the Torah reverts to the earlier reference of תימע ‘fel-
low’, in calling on one not to hurl invective against his fellow man, diverting from the last denotation of him as a ‘brother’.
What are we to make of all this?
Although a full treatment analyzing the various verses scattered throughout the Torah and the varied uses of these different terms denoting our relationship to our fellow man is beyond the scope of this essay, nevertheless from the perusal of some of the more familiar verses we may suggest the following.
In one of the most central expressions of the responsibility and sensitivity that exists between our fellow man we find the following:
You shall not hate ךיחא תא—your brother in your heart
You shall reprove ךתימע תא—your fellow
You shall love ךערל—your friend as yourself(חי-זי טי ארקיו)
Within the space of two verses the entire range of relationships is traversed! What subtlety regarding the nature of our feelings towards others is being conveyed in this obvious contrast of nouns for our ‘fellow man’?
The Torah instructs that ‘Neither sour dough nor honey should be brought on the Altar as an offering before G-d’. The Holy Kotzker observed that apparently G-d desires neither anything too sour nor too sweet. With even greater flourish he added that when it comes to our relationship with G-d one should be, ןוא
"שימייה וצ טשינ, not too ‘boorish, nor too much ‘at home’— ‘heimish’
When fine tuning our attitude towards G-d we must always remain reverent yet loving, not allowing the
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awe to extinguish our loving passion for Him. We must at the same prevent our fierce love from dousing a healthy instinct of fear, and maintain some distance.
The same is true in the relationship between man and man. There are times when we must be careful to not let our love for one another seduce us in assuming certain liberties in how we act towards each other, by convincing ourselves that after all the other will surely understand and not stand on formality. At the same time we must avoid too much distance in our dealings with others lest we become too businesslike and indifferent towards their feelings.
Perhaps the Torah by instructing us not to hate our ‘brother’, is revealing to us the factor from where all hatred erupts. Precisely because we are brothers and ‘close’ we have certain expectations that when unfulfilled create terrible resentment. It’s that ‘heimishkeit’ we have with one another that can generate, at times, even greater distance. Aren’t most of the portrayals of ‘hatred’ in the Torah the result of misguided expectations from brothers—from Hevel and Kayin; Yitzchock and Yishmael; Yaakov and Esav; and the brothers’ hatred of Yosef? We sometimes could benefit by introducing some level of formality, even amongst brothers, so that the closeness doesn’t come to haunt us.
However, when we must reproach one another we must discard the ‘brother card’ so that it doesn’t blind us from being objective about a ‘brother’s’ failings and looking the other way. So therefore, the Torah states we must reprove simply ךתימע your fellow, not your brother.
The Talmud breaks this word down to mean ךתאש םע, the ‘people who are with you’, those ‘equally bound by the Torah and mitzvos’ we are all committed to follow together. This downplays the deeper bond of natural ‘brotherhood’, emphasizing the distinct duties we commonly devote to. With this perspective we balance familial ‘understanding’ with the reality of responsibility.
After mastering this balancing act, we can enter the realm of genuine friendship, becoming a עיר, a friend.
Rav Samson Raphael Hirsch expounding on the word עיר points out that it shares the same root as the word הערמ, which means ‘pasture’. One must see and recognize in his fellow Jew the ‘pasturage of his life’, the furthering of his own well-being, and the conditions for his own happiness in life. There are no competitors in life but only supportive ‘team members’, which we vitally need, to attain our own success.
One engaged in commerce, clearly stands opposite his partner. Inevitably there exists a challenge. Will one position oneself with respectful distance and regard or will one warmly embrace this joint benefit? Each attitude presents a test. Will the distance allow for compassion in setting a fair price to the benefit of both parties? Or might the camaraderie of spirit allow for a certain looseness in being attentive to accurate values being exchanged.
When the Torah addresses each party to set a fair price it warns them ‘do not cheat your brother’, pointing to the potential pitfall of ‘brotherhood’, instructing them not to let familial comfort permit them to be imprecise and not totally sensitive to the other party’s needs, and to mindful as if he were a stranger.
When dealing later with the issue of aggrieving others with insensitive words, the verse accents the victim of those words as ותימע, just a ‘fellow’, someone whom with we share a common destiny but no intimate connection. The sensitivities of the people we rub shoulders with are well known to us and we tread carefully not to step on their ‘toes’. But when dealing with strangers we often neglect their vulnerabilities. The Torah wants us to be astute in watching what we say that may impinge on another’s feelings. May we carefully navigate the numerous interactions we have daily with each other, always remembering that although we are ‘bros’ we must never lapse into being careless in making dangerous assumptions. If we succeed, we will reap the remarkable fruits of the amazing pastures of friendship.
You may reach the author at: Ravzt@ohelmoshebaltimore.com
We see baalei battim who have so identified with the program. We see kollel yungeleit grabbing onto the program … We see bachurim who have found such newfound energy in learning as a result of the program…. Without a doubt this program is a tremendous zechus for Klal Yisrael!
HARAV CHIZKIYAHU MISHKOVSKY
The Gemara teaches that if Klal Yisrael would keep two Shabbosos the geulah would come immediately. Perhaps we can say that this refers to the learning of both Masechta Shabbos and hilchos Shabbos.
HARAV DOVID COHEN
The Chofetz Chaim said that it is a davar barrur, something as clear as day, that when Eliyahu Hanavi comes to herald the coming of Moshiach, the first thing he will demand will be an accounting for shemiras Shabbos!
HARAV YITZCHOK SOROTZKIN
Join Dirshu's momentous gathering at the Prudential Center during the
a once-in-a-lifetime experience to prepare for
with a commitment to
“When Eliyahu Hanavi Will Come, The First Thing He Will Demand is Shabbos!”
It was a small meeting in the home of Rav Yitzchok Sorotzkin, but one that is destined to make a big, massive, transformative change in Klal Yisrael.
Last week, a delegation of prominent Rabbanim in Lakewood led by HaGaon HaRav Shmuel Meir Katz, shlita, senior dayan and posek of Beth Medrash Govoha of Lakewood, gathered in the home of HaGaon HaRav Yitzchok Sorotzkin, shlita, Rosh Yeshiva of the Mesivta of Lakewood and Telshe, to discuss and strategize on how to stir more awareness of the imperative to learn hilchos Shabbos. The laws of Shabbos encompass so many areas of daily life and if a person doesn’t make an effort to learn them properly and comprehensively, even if he is a “shomer Shabbos,” he will sadly not be able to properly be shomer the Shabbos. He and his family will inadvertently transgress multiple halachos.
The meeting was also graced by the Nasi of Dirshu, Rav Dovid Hofstedter, shlita, who pledged to utilize Dirshu’s worldwide network to help facilitate greater awareness of the imperative to learn and know hilchos Shabbos.
Among the other Rabbanim in attendance were, HaRav Moshe Chaim Kahn, Rav of the Willam Street shul and dayan in Beth Medrash Govoha, HaRav Moshe Zev Feldman, dayan in Beth Medrash Govoha, HaRav Dovid Merling, Rav of Khal Zichron Yaakov, HaRav Eliezer Ralbag, Rav of the Lakewood Courtyard Shul, HaRav Chaim Weg, Rosh Kollel Bais Havaad and Rav of the Sunset Grove community, HaRav Yisrael Zucker, Rav of Khal Ner Avrohom and a Daf HaYomi B’Halacha Maggid shiur at Beth Medrash Govoha, HaRav Chanoch Saltz, dayan at the Beis Horaah of Lakewood, and numerous others, Imagine Hearing that You Have Been Mechallel Every Single Shabbos!!
With a tinge of sadness in his voice, Rav Hofstedter commented, “Imagine what happens after 120 years of life. A frum Yid comes up to shomayim and is asked, ‘Were you a shomer Shabbos?’ His answer? ‘Of course, I was a shomer Shabbos! I am a frum person….’ Imagine if the Beis Din Shel Maalah then answers, “But you have not kept one Shabbos in your entire life! Without realizing it, you have been mechallel Shabbos every Shabbos!”
Rav Yitzchok Sorotzkin added, “I would like to share a chiddush that I heard in the name of the Chofetz Chaim. The Chofetz Chaim said that it is a davar barrur, something as clear as day, that when Eliyahu Hanavi comes to herald the coming of Moshiach, the first thing he will muhn, the first thing he will demand will be an accounting for shemiras Shabbos!”
Rav Sorotzkin then continued, “The Chofetz Chaim said that there is virtually no one who can say, ‘I am a shomer Shabbos k’halacha. Certainly, if you are not a talmid chochom, you cannot make such a claim. If you are a talmid chochom it is your responsibility to make your friends and neighbors aware that one must learn hilchos Shabbos if he wants to truly keep Shabbos!”
Rav Sorotzkin’s words highlighted the purpose of the gathering in his home - to try devising ways to encour-
Partial view of the Asifas Rabbanim at the home of HaRav Yitzchok Sorotzkin
age the learning of hilchos Shabbos.
When the numerous Rabbanim sitting at the table were asked for advice on how to arouse this awareness, there were several responses.
What was clear from all of the Rabbanim is that it was tremendously important to seize the opportunity presented by the fact that the popular Dirshu Daf HaYomi B’Halacha program will begin hilchos Shabbos this coming Shavuos, as the program embarks on Chelek Gimmel of the Mishnah Berurah
If a person starts learning hilchos Shabbos with the Daf HaYomi B’Halacha this coming Shavuos, he will complete hilchos Shabbos within a year and a half. Can we even begin to imagine how many mitzvos assei’s and lo saseis he will have saved himself from transgressing just by dedicating a half hour per day to learning hilchos Shabbos?
Shabbos, the Mekor of Bracha and the Height of Shemirah
After much discussion, Rav Yitzchok Sorotzkin and the other Rabbanim agreed that it is important that Rabbanim in kehillos the world over should devote time on this coming Parshas Bechukosai to encourage their kehillah members to make a kabbalah to learn hilchos Shabbos with a plan.
There is no better opportunity than
to be mekabel Shabbos on Shavuos, the day of Kabbolas HaTorah! On Shavuos, the Daf HaYomi B’Halacha will begin learning hilchos Shabbos, what an amazing zechus!
It is for this very reason that a massive gathering at the Prudential Center in Newark just three days before Shavuos, on 3 Sivan/ June 9 has been planned, to mark the haschala of hilchos Shabbos and get as many people to join as possible, and make this kabbolla before kabollas HaTorah.
The reason for the large gathering in the Prudential Center is that nothing is too much when it comes to encouraging the limud of hilchos Shabbos. Shabbos is the mekor habracha and the greatest shemirah
Dirshu is also making hundreds of new shiurim in hilchos Shabbos available in shuls all over the world. There are also many audio and digital options to hear shiurim daily from the most gifted maggidei shiur in the world.
Today, Klal Yisrael finds itself in an extremely precarious situation from within and without, both in Eretz Yisrael and the diaspora. We desperately need bracha and shemirah and Shabbos can provide both!
Let us answer the call of the Roshei Yeshiva and Rabbanim. Let’s be Mekabel Shabbos -- K’Hilchaso!
Neitz Beit Yaakov [Sefaradi] M-F
Ohel Yakov S-F
6:00 AM Shomrei Emunah Congregation M-F
6:10 AM Agudath Israel of Baltimore M, Th
6:15 AM Kol Torah M, TH
Mercaz Torah U'Tefillah M-F
Shearith Israel Congregation M, TH
The Adas: Chofetz Chaim Adas Bnei Israel M, TH
6:20 AM Agudah of Greenspring M, TH
Agudath Israel of Baltimore S, T, W, F
Arugas HaBosem (Rabbi Taub's) S-F
Bnai Jacob Shaarei Zion Congregation M-F
Kehilath B'nai Torah M, TH
Shomrei Emunah Congregation S, M, TH
6:25 AM The Adas: Chofetz Chaim Adas Bnei Israel T, W, F
6:30 AM Agudah of Greenspring T, W, F
Chabad of Park Heights M-F
Darchei Tzedek M-F
Kehilath B'nai Torah T, W, F
Khal Bais Nosson M-F
Khal Ahavas Yisroel/ Tzemach Tzedek M-F
Kol Torah T, W, F
Mercaz Torah U'Tefillah M-F
Ohr Yisroel M-F
Shearith Israel Congregation T, W, F
Shomrei Emunah Congregation T, W, F
6:35 AM Aish Kodesh (downstairs Minyan) M, TH
Ohel Moshe M, TH
6:40 AM Aish Kodesh (downstairs Minyan) T, W, F
Bnai Jacob Shaarei Zion Congregation M, TH
6:45 AM B”H and Mesivta of Baltimore (Dirshu Minyan) S-F
Beth Abraham M, TH Greenspring Sephardic Synagogue M-F
Mercaz Torah U'Tefillah S-F
Ner Tamid M-F
Ohel Moshe T, W, F
Suburban Orthodox Congregation Toras Chaim M-F
6:50 AM Agudath Israel of Baltimore M, TH
Ahavat Shalom [Sefaradi] M, TH
Bais Medrash of Ranchleigh M, TH
Bnai Jacob Shaarei Zion Congregation T, W, F
Community Kollel Tiferes Moshe Aryeh M, TH
Derech Chaim M-F
Kol Torah M-F
Ohel Moshe S
Ohr Hamizrach [Sefaradi] M, TH
Shomrei Emunah Congregation M, TH
The Shul at the Lubavitch Center M, TH
6:55 AM Beth Abraham T, W, F
Kol Torah M, TH
7:00 AM Aish Kodesh (upstairs Minyan) M-F
Agudath Israel of Baltimore S, T, W, F
Ahavat Shalom [Sefaradi] T, W, F
Arugas HaBosem (Rabbi Taub's) S Bais Medrash of Ranchleigh T, W, F
Community Kollel Tiferes Moshe Aryeh T, W, F
Greenspring Sephardic Synagogue S
Khal Ahavas Yisroel/ Tzemach Tzedek S Kol Torah T, W, F
Mercaz Torah U’Tefillah S-F
Moses Montefiore Anshe Emunah M-F
Ohr Hamizrach [Sefaradi] S, T, W, F
Shearith Israel Congregation S, M, TH
Shomrei Emunah Congregation T, W, F
Shomrei Mishmeres Hakodesh M-F
The Shul at the Lubavitch Center T, W, F
Tiferes Yisroel M-F
7:05 AM Machzikei Torah (Sternhill's) M, TH
7:15 AM Kedushas Yisrael S Kol Torah S
Machzikei Torah (Sternhill's) S, T, W, F
Mercaz Torah U'Tefillah S-F
Ner Israel Rabbinical College S-F
7:15 AM Shearith Israel Congregation T, W, F
Shomrei Emunah Congregation S
Suburban Orthodox Congregation Toras Chaim S
The Adas: Chofetz Chaim Adas Bnei Israel S
Tzeirei Anash M-F
7:20 AM Agudath Israel of Baltimore M, TH
Beth Tfiloh Congregation M-F
Kol Torah M-F
Ohr Hamizrach [Sefaradi] M, TH
Shomrei Emunah Congregation M, TH
7:30 AM Agudah of Greenspring S
Agudath Israel of Baltimore S, T, W, F
Ahavat Shalom [Sefaradi] S
Bais Haknesses Ohr HaChaim S-F
Bais Hamedrash and Mesivta of Baltimore S-F
Bais Medrash of Ranchleigh S
Beit Yaakov [Sefaradi] S
Bnai Jacob Shaarei Zion Congregation S Chabad of Park Heights S
Community Kollel Tiferes Moshe Aryeh S-F
Darchei Tzedek S
Kedushas Yisrael S-F
Khal Bais Nosson S
Ner Israel Rabbinical College (Mechina) S-F
Mercaz Torah U’Tefillah S-F
Ohr Hamizrach [Sefaradi] S, T, W, F
Shomrei Emunah Congregation T, W, F
7:45 AM Bnai Jacob Shaarei Zion Congregation M-F
Talmudical Academy S-F
Darchei Tzedek M-F
Mercaz Torah U'Tefillah S-F
Mesivta Kesser Torah S-F
Mesivta Shaarei Chaim S-F
7:50 AM Derech Chaim S
Ner Tamid S
Ohel Moshe M-F
8:00 AM Agudath Israel of Baltimore S-F
Beth Abraham S
Darchei Tzedek S
Khal Ahavas Yisroel/ Tzemach Tzedek S
Kehillas Meor HaTorah S
Mercaz Torah U’Tefillah S-F
Ohr Yisroel S
Pikesville Jewish Congregation S
Shearith Israel Congregation S
Shomrei Emunah Congregation S-F
The Shul at the Lubavitch Center S
Tiferes Yisroel S
Tzeirei Anash S
Yeshiva Tiferes Hatorah S-F
8:15 AM Kehilath B'nai Torah S
Kol Torah S
Mercaz Torah U'Tefillah S-F
8:20 AM Bais Haknesses Ohr HaChaim S-F
8:30 AM Agudath Israel of Baltimore S-F
Machzikei Torah (Sternhill's) S-F
Mercaz Torah U’Tefillah S-F
Ohel Moshe S
Ohr Hamizrach [Sefaradi] S
Shomrei Emunah Congregation S-F
Shomrei Mishmeres Hakodesh S
8:45 AM Mercaz Torah U'Tefillah S-F
9:00 AM Aish Kodesh S
Agudath Israel of Baltimore S-F
Bais Haknesses Ohr HaChaim S
Beth Tfiloh Congregation S
Bnai Jacob Shaarei Zion Congregation S
Mercaz Torah U’Tefillah S-F
Moses Montefiore Anshe Emunah S
Shomrei Emunah Congregation S-F
Suburban Orthodox Congregation Toras Chaim S-F
9:15 AM Mercaz Torah U'Tefillah S-F
9:30 AM Mercaz Torah U’Tefillah S-F
9:45 AM Mercaz Torah U'Tefillah S-F
10:00AM Mercaz Torah U’Tefillah S-F
Mincha Gedolah
Mercaz Torah U’Tefillah
Khal Ahavas Yisroel/Tzemach Tzedek
12:30 PM Kol Torah
12:50 PM One South Street, 27th Floor, Baltimore, MD 21202
1:00 PM 10055 Red Run Blvd Suite 295
Milk & Honey Bistro 1777 Reisterstown RD
1:25 PM Bais Haknesses Ohr HaChaim
1:45 PM Ohel Moshe
1:50 PM One South Street, 27th Floor (M-Th)
2:00 PM Agudath Israel of Baltimore (S-F)
Big Al @ The Knish Shop Party Room
Kol Torah
Market Maven
Reischer Minyan - 23 Walker Ave 2nd Floor
2:15 PM Pikesville Beis Medrash - 15 Walker Ave
2:30 PM Bais Medrash of Ranchleigh
Community Kollel Tiferes Moshe Aryeh
Tov Pizza Mincha Minyan
Ner Israel Rabbinical College
Mesivta Shaarei Chaim (Etz Chaim Building)
Shearith Israel Congregation
2:45 PM Kollel of Greenspring
3:00 PM Agudath Israel of Baltimore (S-F)
Bais Haknesses Ohr HaChaim
Mercaz Torah U'Tefillah
3:05 PM Kedushas Yisrael
3:15 PM Hat Box
4:00 PM Agudath Israel of Baltimore (S-Th)
Mercaz Torah U'Tefillah
5:00 PM Agudath Israel of Baltimore (S-F)
Mercaz Torah U’Tefillah
5:30 PM Agudath Israel of Baltimore (S-Th)
Mercaz Torah U’Tefillah
6:00 PM Agudath Israel of Baltimore (S-F)
Mercaz Torah U’Tefillah
6:30 PM Agudath Israel of Baltimore (S-Th)
Mercaz Torah U’Tefillah
7:00 PM Mercaz Torah U’Tefillah
Agudath Israel of Baltimore (S-Th)
7:30 PM Agudath Israel of Baltimore (S-Th)
14 Min Before ShkiAh Kol Torah
Mincha/Maariv Plag
Ohel Yaakov
Shomrei Emunah Congregation
Suburban Orthodox Congregation Toras Chaim
Mincha/Maariv Before Shkiah
Aish Kodesh
Agudath Israel of Baltimore
Agudah of Greenspring
Bais Haknesses Ohr HaChaim
Beth Abraham
Bnai Jacob Shaarei Zion Congregation
Darchei Tzedek
Kehillas Meor HaTorah
Kehilath B’nai Torah
Khal Ahavas Yisroel/ Tzemach Tzedek
Machzikei Torah (Sternhill’s)
Mercaz Torah U’Tefillah
Ner Tamid
Ohel Moshe
Ohr Hamizrach [Sefaradi]
Ohr Yisroel
Pikesville Jewish Congregation
Shearith Israel Congregation
Shomrei Emunah Congregation
Shomrei Mishmeres
Suburban Orthodox Congregation Toras Chaim
The Adas: Chofetz Chaim Adas Bnei Israel
The Shul at the Lubavitch Center
Tiferes Yisroel
Maariv
8:30 PM Agudath Israel of Baltimore
Mercaz Torah U’Tefillah
8:45 PM Darchei Tzedek
Ner Israel Rabbinical College (Mechina)
Mercaz Torah U'Tefillah
Maariv continued
Ohr Yisroel
8:50 PM Mesivta Shaarei Chaim (Etz Chaim Building)
8:55 PM Community Kollel Tiferes Moshe Aryeh
9:00 PM Agudath Israel of Baltimore
Arugas Habosem
Mercaz Torah U'Tefillah
Shomrei Emunah Congregation
Suburban Orthodox Congregation Toras Chaim
9:15 PM Mercaz Torah U’Tefillah
9:20 PM Kol Torah
9:30 PM Agudah of Greenspring
Agudath Israel of Baltimore
Kedushas Yisrael
Mercaz Torah U'Tefillah
9:40 PM Ahavat Shalom [Sefaradi]
9:45 PM Bais Haknesses Ohr HaChaim
Kollel Erev Birchas Yitzchok (Luries)
Kollel of Greenspring
Machzikei Torah (Sternhill's)
Mercaz Torah U'Tefillah
Ohr Hamizrach [Sefaradi]
Yeshiva Tiferes Hatorah
9:50 PM Aish Kodesh
Community Kollel Tiferes Moshe Aryeh
Ohel Moshe
10:00 PM Agudath Israel of Baltimore
Darchei Tzedek
Kehilath B'nai Torah
Khal Ahavas Yisroel/ Tzemach Tzedek
Mercaz Torah U'Tefillah
Shearith Israel Congregation
Shomrei Emunah Congregation
10:05 PM Kol Torah
10:10 PM Ner Israel Rabbinical College
10:15 PM Derech Chaim
Khal Bais Nosson
Mercaz Torah U'Tefillah
10:30 PM Agudath Israel of Baltimore
Mercaz Torah U'Tefillah
10:45 PM Mercaz Torah U’Tefillah
11:00 PM Agudath Israel of Baltimore
Mercaz Torah U'Tefillah
11:30 PM Mercaz Torah U’Tefillah
Agudah of Greenspring - 6107 Greenspring Ave Agudath Israel of Baltimore - 6200 Park Heights Ave Ahavat Shalom - 3009 Northbrook Rd
Aish Kodesh - 6207 Ivymount Rd
Arugas HaBosem - 3509 Clarks Ln Bais Haknesses Ohr HaChaim - 3120 Clarks Ln Bais Hamedrash and Mesivta of Baltimore - 6823 Old Pimlico
Are you the parent of a teenager who has no real plans for the summer, and you want him or her to get out of the house and learn some life lessons, like how hard it is to get a decent job, or that any job they could even get requires basically none of the skills that they’re learning in school?
Well, that’s going to be the takeaway. Unless you send them to a school that teaches them how to mow lawns and keep a hundred kids occupied on a bus.
But there’s nothing like a summer job to teach kids the value of a dollar. The value of a dollar is nothing. There, I did it. But if they’re home all day, they’re mostly going to earn money by asking you for it repeatedly, and you might give it to them, just to get them to be quiet and let you earn money so you can squander it away getting your kids to stop bothering you for money. And so on. We’re here to help you break this cycle.
See, you want them to get a job, but seeing as jobs aren’t coming out of the woodwork to look for them, you’re faced with a dilemma: If you don’t help them come up with something, they probably won’t do it, and if you do help them, they’re never going to learn not to rely on you. You want something you can passive-aggressively pass on to them to read so they get the hint and get a job. And nothing says, “something you can passive-aggressively pass on to people and hope they get the hint” like one of my articles. So here goes:
Hey, kids! Are you a teenager looking to get out of his parents’ house during the day because they keep annoying you with questions like, “When are you gonna get a summer job?” Why not get a summer job? That’ll show them! Then who are they gonna annoy, huh? Let them annoy each other!
The difficult thing about getting a summer job as a teen is that most industries don’t just want someone for the summer, because they run all year. The only thing that doesn’t run all year is school. Unfortunately, getting a job in a school isn’t a good idea either, because the weeks
you’re looking for a job are also the weeks there’s no school. What are the odds?
Your best shot at a job is to think of something that comes up only seasonally, like snow shoveling. (That’s just an example; I don’t recommend you go around offering to shovel snow. Though whatever gets you out of the house, right?)
Camp Counseling – This is a great job if you enjoy playing the least fun part of each sport with a bunch of short people who are considerably worse than you, and taking kids to the nurse. And if you work in a sleepaway camp, you can spend your nights trying to convince a bunch of kids to shower, and no matter how much progress you make, the bunkhouse will stink.
Unfortunately, this is a very competitive industry. Everyone wants to do it. See, the problem is that there are approximately as many teenagers as kids. So your next option is
Mowing Lawns – This is an easier job to get, because you don’t have to worry about how many job openings there are versus how many teenagers are walking around with lawnmowers. You can just keep knocking on doors all day, paying more attention to who you think is home than who actually has long grass.
“We just mowed ours an hour ago.”
Yeah. That doesn’t stop the snow-shovel kids.
Lifeguarding – This is a great job if your ideal summer is yelling at kids at a pool. You may get to save a life here and there, but in my experience being around pools, it’s mostly about yelling at people to not put you in a position where you have to save their life, which is your job. For no other job is it acceptable to do this. As a teacher, I can’t walk in and yell, “Don’t make me have to teach you!”
Bike Riding Instructor – Do you like watching screaming little kids fall from a distance?
You’d be watching from a distance. The kids wouldn’t be falling from a distance.
Parents all over the world go through the agony of teaching their kids to ride bikes – which is an
By Mordechai Schmutterimportant life skill that almost never comes up as an adult – and any parent would love for you to take this burden – and their kids’ future distrust – off their hands. The whole thing seems like borderline child abuse. Imagine if this is how you taught a kid to drive – you ran alongside the car and then let go and yelled, “Lean the other way!” and watched him hit a mailbox.
Babysitting – This is a great job, because more kids are home, and it prepares you for being a parent, except for the more annoying parts of being a parent, like convincing the kids to go out and get jobs. And there are lots of families for whom hiring a boy babysitter would be better than hiring a girl! But unfortunately, we’re still living in an age where many people consider babysitting a girls’ job. Only girls grow up to be parents.
Housesitting – Find neighbors who are going away, and ask if they need you to do all the things they can’t do because they’re not home, such as water their plants, take in their mail, feed their fish, look out their window and keep tabs on their neighbors, move their car back and forth for alternate side, and maybe forward them all the stuff they forgot to pack. This is a lot easier than babysitting, because you don’t have to keep track of every single little kid, and worse comes to worse, you can always run out at the last minute and find a new fish that looks reasonably like the old fish.
Mother’s Helper – Apparently this is a thing now too. I always thought “mother’s helper” was a fancy word for a father, like it’s a good thing to put on a resume if you haven’t had a job for a while.
“What have you been doing the last few years?”
“It’s right there. Mother’s helper.”
And how come there are no father’s helpers?
Oh, that’s right. We keep sending them out.
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.
Following up on its recordbreaking debut last year, the JFood show is back again for what is expected to be an epic kosher food show, offering buyers and consumers a taste of the latest and greatest in the world of kosher food. Taking place on June 18th at the NJ Expo Center in Edison, New Jersey, JFood ‘24 promises to be a trade show like no other, with thousands expected to experience the exponential growth of the kosher food industry.
JFood was warmly embraced when it stepped into the void left when Kosherfest ended its 33 year run last May, with Compass Conferences pulling together a massive show in a matter of weeks. CEO Shmiel Stern created the
JFood format based on feedback from people in the food industry, and buyers from all over the United States, as well as Israel, Mexico, London and Australia, made it their business to be in Edison for JFood’s inaugural show.
“Someone called me a few weeks after the show to tell me he made a great deal with a big buyer out of Chicago, and the whole show was worth it just for that alone,” said Stern. “Another guy who reserved a corner booth for this year’s show said that his sales doubled after attending JFood last year.”
Once again, JFood ’24 will cater to the dual facets of the kosher food business, with exclusive buyers’ hours
from 9:30 AM to 4 PM, followed by a shift in focus to consumers at 4 PM until doors close at 8 PM. The high energy level that was evident throughout last year’s show will likely be topped at JFood ’24, which is expected to feature well over 200 exhibitors as well as three unique pavilions dedicated to specific markets – party planners, the health-conscious and kosher travelers.
Buoyed by the enthusiasm of JFood’s debut, which included accolades from Kosherfest founder Menachem Lubinsky, Stern takes his responsibilities as the organizer of the number one show in kosher seriously. He is confident that caterers, as well as restaurant, supermarket and school and camp buyers, will find JFood ’24
to be a rewarding experience, while consumers will savor the opportunity to check out the latest food trends, cooking demonstrations, presentations and more.
“We are a full day event that caters to the B2B and B2C markets,” said Stern. “We look forward to being able to give different brands and exhibitors their moment in the spotlight and to present attendees with a new look at the latest and greatest in the world of kosher.”
For more information, visit JFood ’24 at www.jfood.show .
Anorexia nervosa, often simply called anorexia, is an eating disorder, characterized by food restriction, low weight, a strong desire to be thin, and a fear of gaining weight. As such, anorexia is often viewed as a body-image disorder, affecting primarily females since they have a strong predisposition to concerns about their physical appearance. This would lead one to believe that if a male would have anorexia it would have to be due to having an uncommonly heightened concern about his physique. “Normal” males would therefore be immune
she became so ill that members of the Christian clergy attempted to convince her to stop fasting. She responded that although she now realizes that fasting was a mistake, she is simply unable to stop fasting. She died shortly thereafter at 33 years old.
Another early case is that of Timothy Dwight IV in the eighteenth century. He was a Protestant minister, who eventually became the president of Yale University. As a young adult, he was obsessed with his studies, and would study for fourteen hours a day and sleep only four hours a night. He also became concerned that too much food was dulling his mind and he reduced his food intake to twelve
closely monitored his diet. Over the next few months, Dwight slowly regained his health until he reached a complete recovery.
These two historical cases have one very important aspect in common, and that is that the food restriction was completely unrelated to body image. In the first case, it was due to an attempt to achieve spiritual heights, and in the second case it was due to a belief that food was limiting his efforts to become a great scholar.
mid and does not want to stop learning even for a second. That is incredible! But, once again, the Chofetz Chaim (and every other Gadol) would tell him that you should still eat three meals a day and get a good night’s sleep. Nevertheless, sometimes a Bochur with a predisposition for anxiety or obsessions may get the idea that if he skips meals, he will be able to learn so much more and become a real Gadol.
ued to restrict his eating more and more until he was eating only a few pieces of potatoes and vegetables. He became thinner and thinner until he became deathly ill. His father brought him home, and he was expected to die. A local doctor took over his care, ordered him to avoid all studies, and
This is because one can develop anorexia without having any issues with body image. Although the environmental, genetic, and emotional underpinnings of anorexia are not well understood, there is one thing we know for sure. And that is that any eating behavior that involves restrictions or rigid rules is a risk factor for anorexia.
Now let us explore how this would play out today. Yeshiva Bochurim and Yungerleit come in all shapes and sizes, and there is a significant number of them who connect with the ethos of Mussar. That by itself is wonderful! The Chofetz Chaim was surely someone who lived and breathed the teachings of Mussar, and also insisted that the Bochurim in his Yeshiva should eat three nutritious meals a day and get a full night’s sleep. However, it is possible that an individual Bochur with a predisposition for anxiety or obsessions might get an idea in his head that restricting his eating may help him become less immersed in Gashmiyus.
Alternatively, you may have a Yungerman who is a tremendous Mas-
Males are at risk of developing anorexia even though they have absolutely no issues around body image. This is because, as we mentioned, restricting your food intake is a risk factor for developing anorexia, whether it relates to body image or not.
Anorexia is the most dangerous psychiatric disorder, and once it takes hold of a person it can be challenging to achieve recovery. If you see one of your children engaging in food restrictions to the degree that they are not getting the nutrition that they need or they are losing weight in an alarming way, whether it is your son or daughter, please do not sit on your laurels. Seek professional guidance as to the most effective way of nipping it in the bud before it develops into anorexia. One day, when your son or daughter matures, they will thank you.
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
HOURS
Sun-Wed 11:00-8:30
Thursday 11:00-9:00
Fri 11:00-2:00
Sat 7:00-Midnight Kitchen Closes 15 min before closing time
As The Associated: Jewish Federation of Baltimore prepares for its relocation to the heart of the Jewish community, big changes are afoot at the Park Heights Jewish Community Center.
“We’re excited that The Associated’s going to be moving its headquarters into the current JCC building alongside a few of its agencies,” says Marc B. Terrill, president of The Associated.
“This move will position The Associated to offer a robust home for community-wide programming, to have the JCC, Jewish Library and The Associated in one main building and adjacent to most of our other Associated agencies on one campus. It’s
really going to provide a unique opportunity for us to think and work communally.”
Renovations to the building, scheduled to begin in the next several weeks, will begin with the JCC’s main lobby. According to Paul Lurie, the JCC’s chief operations officer, the new lobby is the first step in what will be a “campus-wide transformation, a reimagination in how we use the building.”
The new main floor will include modern boardrooms, meeting rooms and an auditorium/ multipurpose space equipped with the latest technologies. Adjacent to the multipurpose space will be a small catering kitchen, making the space suitable for b’nai mitzvah parties, meetings and other special occasion building rentals.
The main floor of the JCC will also be home to a brand-new wing for children and families. “This will include a new version of J Town, the parent-children interactive space that recently closed during construction” says,” Lurie.
“With the renovation, we’ll have a new parent-child space right next to the new Jewish Library. Our goal is to create this hub of family engagement between the new J Town and the new Jewish Library. We want it to be an immersive experience for families where we leverage Jewish values in everything we do.”
Jessica Fink, executive director of the Jewish Library of Baltimore says the new space is being designed in consultation with an architect in order to “ensure we meet the needs of the community.”
New features will include a laptop bar, study nooks and a meeting space available for use by Associated agencies. The library staff will grow to include three librarians and a library administrative coordinator.
Recently, says Fink, the library has also welcomed an author-in-residence “who creates programming that uses literacy to combat antisemitism.” While renovations are in progress, Fink says the library will be
temporarily located in the JCC auditorium. The final phase of construction will focus on renovating our Sports and Wellness facilities.” says Lurie.
When completed there will be two newly built group fitness studios and three revitalized studios. The Fitness Center will have new flooring, lighting, sound system, entry points and more. The locker rooms will be upgraded with a new steam room coming for women.
“Our goal is to have the least amount of interruption possible for members who utilize the space during construction.”
– Paul Lurie
Finally, during this phase, the lower level of the building will be reimagined with the JCC’s newly renovated fitness center, says Lurie. When completed, the fitness center will include a total of five group fitness studios — two newly built ones and three revitalized ones. The fitness center will also include new flooring, hallways, lighting, locker rooms, bathrooms and state-of-theart technology for sound systems.
“Those facilities are in need of renovation after years of constant use,” says Lurie. “We believe strongly in being able to give people a high-quality experience there.”
“We are grateful to The Associated for leading these efforts and making these renovations possible. The planning process has been years in the making. There’s been a lot of time, effort, thought and creativity that’s gone into it. Lay leaders involved in the planning have really tried to look out for the best interests of the community. And obviously, it couldn’t be done without donors and funders including the Goldsmith family who made the lead gift.”
The JCC has a careful plan to ensure that JCC families won’t be inconvenienced by the renovations.
“While the group fitness studios are under construction, we’re utilizing the gymnasium and some other spaces, so we don’t lose more than one class a week. When the fitness center goes under renovation, the gym will get turned into a temporary fitness center so people won’t lose out on that. And, when the locker rooms go under, we’ll be making the family changing rooms into some locker room space,” says Lurie.
“Our goal is to have the least amount of interruption possible for members who utilize the space during construction.”
For updates, go to jcc.org/construction
The group was returning from the opening ceremony for a dam on the border between Iran and Azerbaijan. But traveling by helicopter through dense fog in the mountainous region of East Azerbaijan province in northwestern Iran proved to be tricky – and fatal.
On Sunday, May 19, Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi, Foreign Minister Hossein Amir-Abdollahian, and six other passengers and crew crashed in the mountains. It took authorities a significant amount of time to find the wreckage and declare them all dead.
Within days, the Iranian regime announced new elections to fill Raisi’s spot to be set for June 28. In the interim, Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei appointed Raisi’s first vice president, Mohammad Mokhber, as interim president. Mokhber had close ties to the supreme leader and to the powerful Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) but was not viewed as a potential contender for the presidency.
Raisi’s death leaves many with the question: will his demise impact the Persian regime and world affairs?
The short answer to that question is no.
But longer term, it is possible that the country may begin to change without Raisi on the chessboard.
It is important to understand that the president of the Islamic Republic does not really make any decisions. That privilege is held by the Supreme Leader. The president is merely someone who implements the ayatollah’s policies. As such, many of the policies presented by Iran now will not change with Raisi out of the picture.
In Iran, the Supreme National Security Council (SNSC) is the highest body in charge of foreign policy and national security. As chair of the council, the president can influence debates and play a role in setting the agenda. But the president still needs to work to form consensus with 11 other permanent members with high-ranking military, political, or ministerial positions. Ultimately, SNSC decisions must be approved by the Supreme Leader.
It’s possible that Iran will refrain from making significant moves – such as sending missiles to Israel –until a new president is voted in. It may also delay new diplomatic initiatives given that the foreign minister was also killed.
Since Amir-Abdollahian also died in the crash, one of Mokhber’s first acts as interim president was appointing Ali Bagheri Kani, the deputy foreign minister for political affairs, as acting foreign minister.
Bagheri Kani is not new on the Iranian political scene. He had been the lead nuclear negotiator under Raisi, although the hardliner was a vocal critic of the
2015 nuclear deal. Just a few weeks ago, Bagheri Kani reportedly held indirect talks with Brett McGurk, the White House coordinator for the Middle East and North Africa, on deescalating regional tensions. But a meeting between Bagheri Kani and EU officials that was scheduled for May 22 was reportedly canceled after the helicopter crash.
Raisi had been called “The Butcher of Tehran” –and for good reason. He is most recently connected to the executions of 500 people during the 2022 protests that broke out after the death of Mahsa Amini, a 22-year-old Kurdish woman who had died while in prison for not wearing her hijab correctly. Protests that lasted for three months rocked the country. Raisi was brutal in his crackdown on protesters. Under his watch, hundreds were killed – including minors –and more than 22,000 people were detained.
But the 2022 protests weren’t the only reason for Raisi’s reputation for brutality.
Before he was elected president, Raisi’s hands were stained with blood as far back as 1988. A 28-year-old prosecutor at the time, Raisi was one of four members on the “death commission” that ordered the deaths of more than 4,000 political prisoners in mass sham trials. He was the member of the commission that purportedly planned and organized the brutal executions.
Raisi became a more public name in Iran around a decade ago. In 2016, Raisi was appointed by Supreme
By Su S an SchwammLeader Khamenei to head the Imam Reza foundation, one of Iran’s wealthiest religious endowments – with no government scrutiny and answerable only to Khamenei. It is estimated that the fund was worth tens of billions of dollars at the time of Raisi’s death. Raisi ran for president in 2017, losing to incumbent Hassan Rouhani. In turn, in 2019, Khamenei appointed him as Iran’s chief justice. The United States sanctioned him that year for involvement in domestic repression.
In 2021, Raisi ran again for the presidency, earning 62 percent of the vote. But the victory was hollow, as the turnout at the polls was the lowest for a presidential election in the history of the Islamic Republic. Raisi also ran basically unchallenged due to vetting by the powerful Guardian Council.
As president, Raisi had pledged to fight corruption, build one million affordable housing units per year, create one million jobs per year, control prices of goods, and reduce inflation. But much of campaign pledges were bluster, and he made limited progress on achieving those goals because of strict U.S. sanctions imposed on the regime and also due to mismanagement. For example, in 2022, his administration botched an attempt to reform subsidies for basic imports, including wheat, triggering a spike in bread prices and protests.
By February 2024, his government managed to bring inflation down to 35 percent – the lowest level in two years – but it still fell short of his goal of lowering it to 30 percent. The average Iranian, at the time of Raisi’s
death, was still struggling, grappling with high prices, a weak currency, high unemployment, and cuts in state social services.
when it came to foreign policy, Raisi may have been a bit more successful. When he took office, he had barely any foreign policy experience. But Raisi had his eyes set on expanding ties with China and Russia, which he ultimately did.
Iran supported Putin’s invasion into Ukraine in February 2022, becoming Russia’s top military backer and providing Moscow with more than 1,000 Shahed series suicide drones as well as artillery and tank rounds. Facing U.S. sanctions, the two nations forged tighter economic ties. Russia eventually overtook China as the largest foreign investor in the Islamic Republic.
Iran also turned to China during Raisi’s reign. In 2023, Raisi became the first Iranian leader to make a formal visit to Beijing in more than 20 years. During that visit, he signed 20 agreements that could be worth billions of dollars. Under Raisi, China became Iran’s top trade partner and an economic lifeline. In 2023, Iranian oil exports were up by 50 percent, a five-year high, at 1.29 million barrels per day. The vast majority of exports eventually went to China, often through intermediaries.
Within the past two years, Iran, under Raisi, joined two economic blocs that brought Iran closer to China and Russia. In July 2023, Iran was formally admitted as the ninth member of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization, a security and economic organization led by China and Russia that also includes Central and South Asian countries. In January 2024, Iran became
a member of the BRICS bloc of emerging economies — Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa. Together, the five nations represented approximately a quarter of the world’s economy and more than 40 percent of the world’s population.
Last year, in a move that shocked many, Saudi Arabia – a staunch enemy of Iran – agreed to restore diplomatic ties with Iran in a China-brokered deal. The Islamic Republic and the Gulf kingdom affirmed their respect for the “sovereignty of states” and “non-interference in internal affairs.” This was not a simple agreement. For years, Iran – led by Shia clerics – and Saudi Arabia –ruled by Sunni monarchs – had clashed over regional conflicts, particularly in Syria and Yemen.
In 2018, the United States, under President Donald Trump, unilaterally withdrew from the Iran nuclear deal. The Biden administration endeavored to revive the agreement, although attempts ultimately collapsed under Raisi. The lifting of U.S. sanctions would have helped to lift Iran’s economy, but Raisi seemed to feel more comfortable dealing with China and Iran on economic and military matters than opening doors to the United States.
more important than who will replace Raisi as president are the rumors swirling around the position of Supreme Leader. While Khamenei is firmly filling that chair, he is hardly a youngster. At 85 years old, thoughts of his successor have certainly been filling his mind.
Raisi had seemed a likely pick to take over for Khamenei eventually. His resume checked all the boxes:
a cleric, former chief justice, former head of a massive foundation, and president of Islamic Republic. Khamenei himself had been president of Iran from 1981 to 1989 and then became Supreme Leader in 1989.
If Raisi would be alive and would take over Khamenei, there would be no expectations of deviations of policy in Iran. Raisi’s views had echoed Khamenei on almost every major topic, and he was a dutiful follower of Khamenei’s directives.
Mojtaba Khamenei, the Supreme Leader’s son, is thought to be a likely contender to take over for his father. Mojtaba is not the most sterling candidate, though. He has never held an official position and lacks top religious credentials.
Even more than that, the leaders of the Islamic Revolution vehemently opposed any system that resembled a monarchy, with father to son succession. If Mojtaba would succeed his father, whiffs of nepotism may just whip the masses into skepticism over the Supreme Leader’s role.
Mojtaba has close connections with the Revolutionary Guards and the Basij paramilitary, which may have significant influence over the succession. The Revolutionary Guards controls a vast network of companies involved in arms, energy, construction, telecommunications, mining and many other sectors. It would stand to gain if the next Supreme Leader depends on it for support.
It is likely that, with Raisi out of the picture, Iran will see serious infighting and numerous backroom deals when it comes to picking its future president –and Supreme Leader.
1. What is archery?
a. Firing arrows from a bow
b. The sport of walking through short arches and trying not to bump your head
c. A type of farming
d. Guessing the arch of a ball that is thrown in front of you
2. What is the name of the device used to draw a bowstring back in preparation for shooting?
a. Fletching
b. Nock
c. Quiver
d. Release Aid
3. Which ancient civilization is credited with the earliest recorded use of the bow and arrow?
a. Mesopotamia
b. Greece
c. Rome
d. Egypt
4. In archery, how many points is the bullseye worth?
a. 3
b. 10
c. 25
d. 100
5. What is the
term for one who loves archery?
a. Toxophily
b. Archibilly
c. Archerist
d. Archist
6. How quickly can an arrow travel?
a. 60 MPH
b. 100 MPH
c. 200 MPH
d. 700 MPH
7. Which country won the gold medal for archery in the 2022 Olympics?
a. Turkey
b. U.S.
c. Japan
d. China Answer:
Wisdom key:
6-7 correct: Bullseye!
3-5 correct: You just shot an arrow at my head!
0-2 correct: You just shot an arrow at your head!
Without any limit on the number of arrows she can use, how close can an archer get to scoring a total of 100 points?
The point values for the different rings on the target are as follows: 40, 39, 24, 23, 17, and 16.
It’s possible to score exactly 100 points. Shoot two arrows worth 16 points each (32 points) and four arrows worth 17 points each (68 points) for a total of 100 points.
Answer:
The following are all nicknames of fire stations in New York City, except one. Can you spot the fake?
Red Hook Raiders
The Gas House Gang
The Tillary Street Tigers
The Bush Wackers
We Walk The Line
The Pride of Bed Sty
To Hull and Back
Hot Stuff
Going to Blazes
The Flaming Skulls
Blazing Saddles
Knights of Fire
Hang on We’re Coming
Stairway to Heaven
Midtown’s Most Wanted
The Smokebusters
Never a Dull Moment
The Red Devils
The Hot Corner
The Pastafarians
Why didn’t the green pepper practice archery?
Because it didn’t habanero.
Ever tried blindfolded archery?
You don’t know what you’re missing.
Answer: The Pastafarians
Trump can still be convicted. After all, this is Manhattan, where shoving Grandma in front of a moving train gets you a verbal warning… These are the dopes that gave us bail reform, Bill de Blasio, and “Sucker Punch a Woman Week.”
- Greg Gutfeld, Fox News
That is madness. Sheer madness. To close the border and leave them there. That is madness.
- Pope Francis, in an interview with “60 Minutes,” urging America to let all illegal aliens into the country
Catholic Church Distances Self from Pope Francis.
– Babylon Bee
When I was vice president, things were kind of bad during the pandemic and what happened was, Barack said to me, “Go to Detroit! Help fix it.”
- Pres. Biden at a campaign event with the NAACP, bizarrely claiming that he was vice president when Covid hit, more than three years after his term was up
Our nation is led by a man who publicly and proudly proclaims his Catholic faith but at the same time is delusional enough to make the sign of the cross during a pro-abortion rally.
- Kansas City Chiefs kicker Harrison Butker during his commencement speech at Benedictine College in Atchison, Kansas
If Democrats had put half their energy in delivering for the people, Trump wouldn’t even have a chance in 2024 … You’ve had power for four years. From the fabricated Steele Dossier, to trying to take him off the ballot in both Maine and Colorado, the Democrats are the antiDemocrat party.
- Former Mumford and Sons member Winston Marshall addressing Rep. Nancy Pelosi (D-CA) at an Oxford Union debate
We have the lowest ratio of collateral damage in the history of urban warfare. There’s about, let’s call it, 32,000 Palestinians who died. Half of them are terrorists. That’s one to one. In Afghanistan, in Iraq, it was one to nine. For every terrorist you killed, there were six, seven, eight, nine civilians. We’re bending over backward in order to prevent unnecessary deaths. Otherwise, we’d get this whole thing done within three days if we didn’t care about it.
- Former Israeli Prime Minister Naftali Bennett criticizing Pres. Biden for withholding weapons from Israel
The Arab world does not have one functioning democracy despite Arabs ethnically cleansing all their countries of the Jews, and still somehow Jews are to blame for their oppressive regimes, according to WaPo Board member Shadi Hamid.
- Tweet by AGHamilton29 in response to a claim by a Washington Post board member that Israel suppresses Arab democracies
How Michael Cohen’s past lies make him a more credible witness.
- MSNBC headline after Michael Cohen’s cross-examination at the Trump trial revealed that not only did he repeatedly lie to federal authorities and Congress, but he also stole $60,000 from Trump
It sounded a lot like Michael Cohen doing the little that he could within that calculation to rebalance the bonus he thought he deserved, and it still came out as less than the bonus he thought he deserved and the bonus he had gotten the year before.
- MSNBC host Lawrence O’Donnell reporting that Michael Cohen stealing $60,000 seems justified because Cohen thought that he deserved a bigger bonus
I do not.
- Former National Institute of Health Director Francis Collins when asked earlier this year in a closed-door Congressional hearing whether he ever saw any scientific evidence that warranted 6-foot distancing during Covid, according to a just released transcript of that hearing
Yes we did.
- National Institutes of Health (NIH) principal deputy director Lawrence Tabak at a Congressional hearing this week being the first to admit that the U.S. funded the Wuhan lab’s efforts to create a deadly virus, after years of Dr. Fauci denying that despite the strong evidence
I just want to debate this guy, but you know –and I’m gonna demand a drug test too, by the way. No, I really am. I don’t want him coming in like the State of the Union. He was high as a kite.
- Trump talking about his upcoming debate with Pres. Biden
Hamas is a terrorist organization, you know, and it’s very strange for young progressive students… to kind of support a fascist terrorist group because, you know, they’re talking about “free Palestine.”
- Renowned author Salman Rushdie, in an interview with Germany’s The Bild
Is that what the progressive movements of the Western left wish to create? To have another Taliban, another Ayatollah-like state in the Middle East?
- ibid.
One of the causes of this heartbreaking incident is the United States, which by embargoing the sale of the aviation parts to Islamic Iran caused the martyrdom of the president and his companions. The crime of the United States will definitely be recorded in the minds of the Iranian people and in history.
- Former Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif blaming “the
that killed the Butcher of Tehran
My thoughts and prayers go out to the Biden administration. They lost a close friend in a helicopter accident today.
-Tweet by Hillel Fuld after the Iranian president was killed in a helicopter crash
Breaking: Gaza Health Ministry is reporting that along with the Iranian president, at least 500 women & children are on the helicopter –along with 12 journalists, 17 aid workers, and 25 surgeons.
– Tweet by David Collier
I’m waiting together with you for the return of your loved ones. The world cannot continue to progress until all of these hostages are home. You need to know that all of us here in America have this uppermost in our mind. This is not something that is just happening halfway around the world. We understand this truly impacts every one of us every day.
– Dr. Phil speaking at a rally at Hostage Square in Tel Aviv
You’re on our minds and we want this to happen for you. We love you, we care about you, and we stand unified with you each and every day as these loved ones are missing from your lives. G-d bless you and know that we’re behind you every step of the way.
- Ibid.
I laugh at the phrase “America first.”
– Sen. Mitt Romney (R-Utah) in an interview with MSNBC
That’s why you lost to a Kenyan.
- A tweet in response
Reason #256 of why Romney is a failed politician.
– Ibid.
Iran’s New President Orders Bodies Hanged At Half Mast
- Babylon Bee headline
Never forget that the [terrible] socialists murdered 150 million human beings. Socialism necessarily leads to slavery and death. Opening the door to socialism is inviting death.
- Argentine President Javier Milei at a rally in Madrid, ahead of the EU Parliament elections
The cancer of society is socialism, the enemies are leftists. Let’s not let the dark, black, atrocious, satanic, cancerous side beat us.
- Ibid.
I’ve been going out with a girl I met on an app for the past two months. I’m not the type to meet on an app, but there was something about her profile that really spoke to me. My intuition was right in that Alana* is truly an amazing girl, and it has been amazing getting to know her.
As things have been getting serious, we felt it was about time to spend time with each other’s families. We had an amazing Shabbos at my parents’ house, and she expressed how much she loved it. When it came to planning a time to spend Shabbos with her family, she kept hemming and hawing, but we eventually came up with a date that was good for everyone. Shabbos at her house was nothing I could have ever imagined at my potential in-laws. I don’t have too many examples, but I just felt like something was off. Her mother seemed fake nice. Her father was clearly overbearing and did not hide the fact that things always need to go his way. I was really not comfortable around them at all.
I don’t want to hurt her, and I do want to still find a way to work this out but I would like guidance as to how to approach this without hurting her. I would appreciate any guidance you have.
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.
Sorting out what is present in a family and what is present in a person is hard. It’s smart that you made sure to spend time with Alana’s family on Shabbos. Your expectations were clearly not met, and you picked up on several troublesome indicators.
You are right that you need some help in dating skills. You are caring and don’t want to hurt the young woman. That is to be respected.
Getting a person to open up about relationships with others and strategies employed to resolve them is an art. Honesty about oneself is a sign of maturity. What can you do to create a safe environment where another person will open up? What is the person’s commu-
nication style in other environments? What is her response to stress? Strife? Get some dating coaching from an experienced professional in this area. A newspaper column is not sufficient help to developing these skills so that you can really get to know a person’s strengths, weaknesses, and methods of dealing with difficulties as well as your own.
Firstly, congrats on meeting a girl you like and connect with! Getting to know a new family is always hard, not just for the single but also for the parents. It’s great news that your parents liked Alana and that you all had
an amazing Shabbos together. Use this as an opportunity to talk to her about the differences you both experienced going to her house vs. your house for Shabbos; I’m sure you both felt it. You can and should be open about your concerns while also being respectful. What is Alana’s take on it? Does she recognize the elephant in the room, or is she immune to it? The key to this is focusing on awareness and a mutual decision to make it work with an acknowledgment of reality.
As you move forward in life, you will start to learn how to navigate difficult people, together with your spouse. Not every relationship will be easy to do so. You must make sure you’re getting into a marriage with a co-captain on the ship who “gets it.” Talk to her about it in an understanding way and explain that you are trying to get to know what it was like growing up. Tell her how you felt over Shabbos and ask if she has experienced this before. Was something going on that week that made the family particularly on edge or stressed? If her attitude about it is nonchalant, thereby dismissing your concerns, you can speak to a professional to see if this is a healthy situation to put yourself in.
Dr. Jeffrey Galler
It is true that, like it or not, your inlaws will be part of your life for many, many years. But the good news is that you would be marrying your girlfriend, not her parents.
Here are some thoughts for you to consider.
First, you seem mature and experienced in dating, so you understand how difficult it is to find someone you can get serious with. Don’t be quick to drop someone who might be a wonderful life partner.
Second, you don’t sound like the kind of person who will be dependent, either financially or emotionally, on her parents. This independence is crucial. Third, it sounds like your girlfriend
Don’t be quick to drop someone who might be a wonderful life partner.
might also recognize that there is something off-putting about her parents. Note how she seemed reluctant to have you meet them.
Fourth, this might come as a surprise to you, but no one in this world is perfect (except my wife, of course).
So, while it would be nice to have in-laws who are warm and kind and remind you of your own parents, that is not a requirement for a happy marriage. What should you do? You need to do some homework. Check with the local synagogue rabbi. Double date with any of your girlfriend’s married siblings, if any. You do want to make sure that there is no criminality and no seriously malevolent behaviors in this family.
In the future, only time will tell if you can, or will, grow to love and feel close to your in-laws. You are not required to do so. All that is required of you is to honor them, respect them, and act politely in your interactions with them.
Only you and your wife will determine how close you are to them, geographically, socially, and emotionally.
Now, don’t try to convince your girlfriend that her mother is not nice or that her father is too domineering. But you could say something to her like, “You seem so different than your parents,” and then see how she reacts.
If she feels, as you do, that her parents deserve respect, but will probably never enjoy a close, warm relationship with the two of you, then this girl is a keeper.
If, however, she expresses a deep love and admiration for her parents, and a strong desire to have a life-long, close relationship with her parents, then, my friend, you might be facing an unsolvable problem in this relationship.
The relationship between you and Alana seems wonderful. Her family gave you the creeps, and maybe rightfully so. You seem like a caring individual. Your concern is that you don’t want to hurt Alana’s feelings. Here’s the thing… Alana’s feelings may be hurt. You are responsible to bring this up in a kind and sensitive way, but what you are not responsible for is how Alana feels after you speak your truth. Sometimes the fear of hurting the other person can quite literally hold us back from living our most authentic lives. But what about you in this equation? You matter, too. I humbly suggest that you speak with her sooner rather than later. You seem like
a sensi - tive soul, so I’m not at all concerned that you won’t have the words…you just have to let yourself speak them. You are allowed to speak them. If you two are meant to be, this honest and kind conversation is going to bring you infinitely closer and more connected to each other.
You can say something like, “I’d really like to share my experience with you about the time I spent with your family. My priority in this conversation is your comfort, and I would never want you to feel badly. But I also know that in healthy relationships, partners share what is on their
minds. I hope you know where my heart is as we talk about this.” Tell her how you felt around her family. Ask her if she notices these dynamics and get a read on what her sense is of the family.
If she sees what you see and has done any necessary work to individuate and is prepared to have healthy boundaries around your marriage, then you have a green light. If she becomes defensive, or simply doesn’t see it, and/or cannot honor your feelings, that is a serious “yellow.”
Yes, a person comes with a family. But if that person has good boundaries around toxic behavior, and lives in the same reality that you live in, this is more than workable, if you want it to be.
Again, you are not responsible for Alana’s feelings. You are responsible for your own honesty and communication and kindness around communication. Take a mo-
ment and sit with the fact that her feelings might get hurt. Process what is coming up for you and what feels hard about having this very honest and raw conversation. Honor whatever it is and allow it into your consciousness. Accept it. Make peace with it. Maybe it is fear of losing her, maybe it is fear of any consequence as a result of being direct. A lot of us are dealing with this. Your relationship is moving to the next level, and this may bring you infinitely closer and infinitely more intimate, ultimately. That’s the thing about good relationships… When we work through our own fears and say what is on our minds, a healthy relationship with the right one will hold space for everything. Hard conversations turn into more closeness.
Best of luck!
Sincerely, Jennifer
Jennifer Mann, LCSW is a licensed psychotherapist and certified trauma healing life coach, as well as a dating and relationship coach working with individuals, couples, and families in private practice at 123 Maple Avenue in Cedarhurst, NY. To set up a consultation or to ask questions, please call 718-908-0512. Visit www.thenavidaters.com for more information. If you would like to submit a dating or relationship question to the panel anonymously, please email JenniferMannLCSW@gmail.com. You can follow The Navidaters on FB and Instagram for dating and relationship advice.
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Memorial Day in the United States is an annual observance to honor and mourn those who have died while serving in the armed services. Several other countries also have their own Memorial Day, including Israel’s Yom Hazikaron which commemorates those who were killed in Israeli wars and the victims of acts of terror. This year, Yom Hazikaron in Israel and Memorial Day in the United States are observed two weeks from each other, on May 13 and May 27 respectively. The lives of many of those who died in service both in the U.S. and Israel are not well known, and it is worth the time to learn about these fallen heroes.
Twelve IDF soldiers during the Israeli War of Independence were given the title of Hero of Israel. Later, these recipients were automatically awarded the Medal of Valor, Israel’s highest military decoration. Private Yizhar Armoni received the title and award posthumously after having fallen in battle. Born in Yerushalayim to Polish immigrants, Armoni joined the Haganah when he was just fifteen. He trained with the Palmach and when the war broke out joined the Yiftach Brigade as a mortar operator.
The war started several months before Israeli declared independence, and in April 1948, the British handed a key
position in the Upper Galilee over to the Arabs. The first attempt to take Fort Yoshua failed, and a second effort was made on April 20. The Jewish force was met with grenades and small arms fire coming from the fort that caused casualties. They began to retreat, and three machine gunners including Armoni were assigned as cover. Most of the wounded were collected and sent safely to the rear. The other two machine guns stopped working, but Armoni stayed on the battlefield to pro -
try remembered the fallen of October 7 and the current war in Gaza. The pain for everyone who knows those who were killed is hard to fathom. Eighteen former students of the pre-military Bnei David Yeshiva in Alon Shvut were killed while fight Arab terrorists.
Golani officer Lieutenant Dekel Suissa fell in battle at his base near Gaza on October 7. He was celebrating Simchas Torah when, at 6 in the morning, the attack began. He was the only officer at the
Despite an injured leg and severe burns, he managed to avoid capture and used native assistance as he survived a hundred days in the jungle.
tect the rest of the wounded from being taken captive or killed by the Arabs. Tragically, he was killed by an enemy bullet. The fortress was finally taken by Jewish forces on May 16.
This year’s Yom Hazikaron took on an even more somber meaning as the coun-
base, and he took control of the situation by moving all of the soldiers inside. Suissa called for an airstrike on the base after telling the soldiers to move to the bomb shelter. He then went to help a wounded soldier but was mortally wounded in the process. Hamas terrorists had gotten
to the base’s entrance where Suissa had confronted them with gunfire. Five dead terrorists were found near where he lay. Eventually, IDF reinforcements arrived in the afternoon, and evacuated the soldiers from the base. Soldiers at the base credited Suissa with saving the lives of many others.
Jewish servicemen and women have served in the United States Armed Forces since American independence almost 250 years ago. Up until the 20th century, records were not meticulously kept, and often, historians have to rely on letters or newspaper clippings for information on particular soldiers. Albert Leopold Snowberger came from a Jewish family in Philadelphia that belonged to the historic Mikveh Israel Congregation. His parents sent him to a military academy in Virginia, but when war broke out in 1861, the 16-year-old enlisted in the Union Army. He was a member of the Pennsylvania 99 th Infantry Regiment and took part in several battles. During the Battle of Fredericksburg on December 13, 1862, Snowberger was mortally wounded but continued to encourage his fellow soldiers. He passed away less than a month later due to his wounds. His commander later wrote to his parents of his bravery and heroism in battle.
World War II saw the expansion of air assets for major combatants with the American factories producing an astonishing 300,000 aircraft during the course of the war. Pilots and aircrew were needed to fly these planes, and Arthur Post of Milwaukee, Wisconsin, was one of those who answered the call. Captain Post was a Jewish officer who became the commanding officer of the 8th Photographic Reconnaissance Squadron, 5th Air Force. They were based at 14 Mile Drome in New
Guinea and flew photo reconnaissance versions of the P-38 Lightning.
On September 28, 1943, Post was flying alone and unarmed in a mission to photograph Japanese installations on Rabaul. After photographing the base, he noticed an enemy convoy but was attacked by fighter planes. After skillfully evading the planes for a while, a Japanese Zero shot out his engines. Post was forced to jump out of his aircraft; his parachute opened up just 500 feet from
the ground. Despite an injured leg and severe burns, he managed to avoid capture and used native assistance as he survived a hundred days in the jungle. He gathered intelligence on enemy installations and soon made contact with Australian Coastwatcher Malcolm Wright. Finally, Post was rescued by the submarine USS Grouper (SS-214) and taken to Australia. Post was awarded the Distinguished Service Cross for this mission. Tragically, on August 25, 1944, his plane fell into the
sea off the coast of Biak, and Post didn’t survive the crash.
Yom Hazikaron and Memorial Day should be for remembrance to those who made the ultimate sacrifice for our freedom.
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.
Rivka was born and grew up in Minneapolis, Minnesota and now lives in Baltimore Maryland. She is the sixth of 12 siblings. She works in the nursing home field on the employee experience side. She is the person who tries to ensure that employees feel valued, seen, heard, and appreciated. It is not a common position and involves much traveling. Rivka discusses the challenges of “being single”, the worst things people can say, and gives an insight into the correct way of supporting someone who hasn’t yet met their partner.
In our interconnected world, the power of the media cannot be overestimated. Internet websites, social media, radio, newspapers, and magazines increasingly control the fate of politicians and governments, world finances and morality. In the chareidi world, the messages conveyed by religious media can shape and strengthen emuna, enrich charitable efforts, and ferment new shul and yeshiva policies. Therefore, it was a great privilege to interview the highly influential Rabbi Eli Paley, owner of Mishpacha Media Group and publisher of the Mishpacha Hebrew and English weekly magazines.
“Live life and don’t wait for things to happen.”
Her advice to Shadchanim is not to do that.
Eli Paley is a businessman and social activist. He is chairman of the Paley Family Foundation which supports and promotes Torah Centers and social initiatives in the Charedi community. A member of the Jewish Funders Network, he is active in several philanthropic organizations.
We discussed the Mishpacha’s origin, the challenges he is faced with policy decision making, and the overall goals he hopes to attain through the publication.
Eli was born in in the Mattesdorff neighborhood in Yerushalayim. His great-grandfather and grandfather arrived in Eretz Yisroel in 1925 to establish the Slabodka Yeshivah in Chevron. Later his grandfather became the assistant to Rabbi Herzel, the chief rabbi of Israel.
Rivka started dating when she was 21. She is glad she did not get married at 21 because she has experienced so much personal growth that she may not have experienced if she was married. However, now, she is not getting any suggestions of people to go out with.
Eli himself is an alumni of Chevron yeshiva. When he married his wife, a graduate of Michlala in Bayit Vegan, his dream was to continue learning. However, a few months after his marriage, his brother mentioned a new monthly publication called Mishpacha was looking for someone to work as a distributor in Yerushalayim for a day and a half once every 5 to 6 weeks. With flex hours like that, Eli took the job, earning twice as much as he would be for an entire month in a kolel. Financially independent, he continued to learn diligently.
Watching everyone around her get married was hard. In the beginning, she was happy for her friends. It was a lot harder with her siblings and ran deeper. Four of her younger siblings are married. When her sister just below her was dating she wondered how she would survive if her younger sister got married before her. However, 10 years later, and with lots of therapy, she is ok. It was hard but they have been sensitive and tried to talk openly about the struggle. It is a reality she has to deal with. She thinks being more direct and talking about it is the right way to go.
His father, Rabbi Yehuda Paley, bought the Mishpacha Magazine business. To help his father, Eli got involved in the editorial angle of the magazine figuring out how it could make a unique contribution to the field of journalism. He left learning to pursue his new mission to inspire and influence the Chareidi community. It is that idealism that still drives him in his work so many years later.
Rivka describes going to Shadchanim as a scary experience because you are in a vulnerable place. Most Shadchanim do not have simple social skills and although they mean well, they should treat singles as human beings, not as someone to set up.
tion, but you have value whether you are single or married. She hopes and davens, that she will find her match, although no one knows exactly what will happen, nobody knows Hashem’s plans.
The topic of poverty among Charedim and the poor economic situation in the Israeli community lay heavily on Eli’s heart. As part of the solution, Eli started the Charedi Institute of Public Affairs to engage with the government with hopes to resolve this in a way that will allow the Charedi society to retain its Torah values.
Many comments are said with good intentions but usually, the exact opposite is achieved especially when younger siblings get married. The dynamics and comments from people who mean well are sometimes very hurtful and sometimes it is easier to just walk away rather than reply.
While American Jews may have difficulty in relating to the issues overseas, Eli, as a born and bred Israeli is certainly in touch with the masses. He recalls the issue he faced during his kolel years when distributing the magazine. The government regulation forbid a yingeman from receiving Kollel benefits if he had any other source of income. Therefore, he was forced to register his side job under his wife’s name, a desperate solution used by many. In his publication, he attempts to broker a better solution.
Another example of difficulties that Israeli chareidim face is the draft. Mishpacha discussed population statistics -- one out of four children is Charedi– and how the army and Charedi society can possibly reach a solution.
Her parents have not put a lot of Hashem and a lot of questions for him. Sometimes it feels that Hashem has not forgotten about her but sometimes it feels that He has. She loves to hear about older singles that find each other. You never know how or what Hashem has in store and that is helpful for her as well as keeping an open dialogue and being open with Hashem. She is not a role model of Miss Emunah and Bitachon but she is keeping it real and trying to figure it out.
The paper is faced daily with Hashkafa decisions that have far-reaching effects on our society. The issue of printing pictures of women in the magazine has been debated back and forth in many forums. When Hilary Clinton was running for President, Mishpacha shocked many readers by publishing a blurry photo of Donald Trump and Hilary on the cover. “We just wanted to see how people would react,” Eli confides.
While Mishpacha is well-received around the world, the goal of Mishpacha is to serve, elevate and be the voice of the Chareidim, particularly in Eretz Yisroel. The real customers are not the advertisers but the audience. Mishpacha seeks to portray an independent voice which is unaffiliated with any political party. In the early years, in the chareidi world of pollicization, this was perceived as a weakness. However, the years have passed, and this freedom has become one of the most salient factors of its success.
Mishpacha was the first Charedi publication to give the same respect to the Sephardi and Ashkenazi societies, attempting to create a sense of unity. Over time, this adherence to equality and ahavas Yisrael became the secret to the business’ success.
Rivka describes herself as being “in a larger body”, something she has dealt with her whole life, and a struggle she wears on the outside. It is painful when a shadchan says you need to change to be a good specimen for me to set up. Often, she has been set up with people who also struggle with their weight as this is a common denominator.
In her professional life, people want to know Rivka’s opinion. She feels young in the nursing home world and throws herself into her professional career where she strives and she feels great. However, when it comes to the Jewish community this is not the case. In the Jewish community, she is the older single. It does not make sense that people think she’s less worthy because she is not married, and does not yet have a family.
Mishpacha’s quest in elevating frum society is done through sincere, honest writing. Mishpacha does not engage in pretending that society is perfect. While recognizing the great achievements and accomplishments in the frum world, Mishpacha will tackle even unpleasant issues, albeit in an extremely sensitive way.
Her message to the world is to live life and not wait for things to happen. She is living her life not waiting for it to start once she finds her man. Singles need to know this. She never thought this would be her situa-
Shabbos and Yomtov are challenging. She appreciates Shabbos and Yomtov invites but sometimes she is in the mood to be alone and “just chill”. Treating single people like human beings is the way to go. Yomtov with kids everywhere is beautiful but they are not her kids and it’s in her face the whole time. Sometimes she “just wants to skip Yomtov”. Being part of a large family can be fun but Yomtov with everyone at home is not something she is not able to do. Seeing younger siblings with their spouses and kids is just too hard.
The office did receive some complaints, but the Gedolim the magazine consults advised them to include her since there was a real possibility Hilary would indeed become president. However, in Israel, an anti-Mishacha publication blasted Mishpacha , claiming they were breaking the rules of modesty and Torah by publishing a picture of Hilary Clinton.
This became a real issue because it was very hard for Eli to justify in his mind why they could not print modest pictures of women, particularly considering how hard it seems to be to explain to ba’alei teshuvah why women are “ignored.” In order to make Mishpacha, often one of their first exposures to Yiddishkeit, more palatable, Eli is comfortable with his decision.
Rivka’s favorite mitzvah is Ve’ahavta le’reacha kamocha because to love somebody else you have to love yourself. This did not come naturally to her and she has worked on it. She is now at the point of loving herself and can love others. Her advice for someone trying to like themselves more is to go to therapy and work it out. Sometimes “fake it till you make it”, and start doing the things that the person who likes themselves does.
He’s on a big mission: to expose our brothers to true Torah values, and he bears the responsibility seriously. He often employs a different way of thinking, a creative model, a stretch and a twist, that can support our lifestyle while at the same time show that we care about the Israeli economy, security, and its welfare system. “Instead of just complaining about why we are not understood,” Eli explained during the interview, “we must ask what we can do in this field. While we have to make sure that our kids are not too exposed to the big world, the (outside) world exists, and we have to face reality and come up with practical solutions. “
Rather than hiding his head in the sand, he is ready to take on the problems in our neighbourhoods and cities, working with the authorities instead of against them. Slowly, he believes, we will be able to build better trust.
Eli is proud that Mishpacha does not try to be sensationalist. Rather he makes an effort to keep his editorial policies responsible and sensitive. “If you’re going to do it le’shaim shamayim” Eli ended, “you’ll have disyata d’shmaya to do it right.”
The people she hangs out with don’t want to be treated like a nebach. Some people feel bad for themselves and fall into being a victim. That is where living your life comes in. It takes two to tango and you have to be outgoing.
The worst advice Rivka has ever received is to lose weight for shidduchim. The best advice is to be yourself. Her message is to simply try things, you never know where a small idea can take you. We all have different struggles, Rivka’s are just on the outside.
Everyone knows Uncle Sam is spending money faster than he takes it in. Just how fast? As of March 1, according to CNBC, we’re adding a trillion dollars to the national debt every 100 days. Naturally, that eye-popping number has the IRS scrambling for every nickel they can find. So they’ve launched all sorts of campaigns to squeeze more money out of particularly promising prospects. Some are dreadfully technical and dull, like the “FIRPTA reporting for NRAs” campaign. (For the record, that involves withholding a 15% tax on gains when non-resident aliens sell U.S. real estate.) Others target a small number of high-dollar opportunities, like the “expatriation of individuals” campaign chasing after taxpayers who renounce their U.S. citizenship, or the “business aircraft campaign” that targets personal use of corporate jets.
But some of those campaigns target higher-profile taxpayers. The independent newsroom ProPublica has just released a story highlighting a new “Sports Industry Losses” campaign, “designed to identify partnerships within the sports Industry that report significant tax losses and determine if the income and deductions driving the losses are reported in compliance with the applicable sections of the Internal Revenue Code.”
Pro sports teams are some of the most valuable businesses in America, jewels in capitalism’s crown. Forbe s magazine reports the Dallas Cowboys are worth $9 billion. Even the least valuable NFL franchise, the Cincinnati Bengals, is worth 3.5 $ billion. Basketball and baseball
ner before every game. You want us to pay income taxes too?”)
Let’s look at the Los Angeles Clippers to see how it works. Steve Ballmer, the former Microsoft CEO, bought the team for $2 billion in 2014. (They’re worth $4.65 billion today.) But he didn’t just buy “the team.” He bought a collection
As former Cleveland Indians and Chicago White Sox owner Bill Veeck once said, “Look, we play the Star Spangled Banner before every game. You want us to pay income taxes too?”
and even many of the concession workers selling hot dogs and beer in the stands. Critics of the current rules argue that writing off some assets, like broadcast rights, is abusive. Why? Because the value of the asset never really goes down. This is especially true for the NFL, which dominates TV ratings and distributes revenue equally among the 32 teams.
There’s one downside of the current rules, however. Writing off assets when you buy them means paying more tax down the road when you sell them. But sports franchise owners can afford the best tax planners in the business to manage those obligations when they sell. And if franchise owners die without selling their team, the “stepped-up basis” rules eliminate any such taxes for their lucky heirs.
franchises sport similarly glittering numbers, with the New York Yankees hitting 7.1$ billion and the Golden State Warriors reaching 7$ billion.
Where’s the tax issue? It turns out that many owners are using noncash amortization and depreciation deductions to offset cash income and cut their tax bill, in some cases, to zero. (As former Cleveland Indians and Chicago White Sox owner Bill Veeck once said, “Look, we play the Star Spangled Ban-
of assets that includes player contracts and TV deals that he can write off over 15 years. Separating out those assets lets him deduct players like his own crown jewel, LeBron James, twice – once against his operating income, and a second time against his purchase price.
From 2014-2018, Ballmer deducted over $700 million in operating losses for a business that generates over $400 million in revenue per year. Ballmer himself paid a lower tax rate than his star James
There’s no reason to assume the IRS is looking for illegal behavior. Rather, as is so often the case, the real scandal is what’s legal . But who can blame team owners for taking every advantage in the code? You should do the same – so call us for a three-pointer against the IRS!
Allan J Rolnick is a CPA who has been in practice for over 30 years in Queens, NY. He welcomes your comments and can be reached at 718-896-8715 or at allanjrcpa@aol.com.
Lag B’Omer has a surprisingly strong place on the Jewish calendar. Children and adults alike are looking forward to the big day. Whether it’s hair-
cuts, concerts, bonfires or simply getting to turn on your favorite music, we’re excitedly anticipating this day.
Throughout the community, we will
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see many celebrations, with schools, shuls and families marking the day. There will be bonfires with joyous singing. We can look forward to the simcha of new homes being built as weddings take place. There will be many concerts, both locally and throughout Jewish communities. For those willing to travel a little bit, Bracha Jaffe will be performing Songs of Hope to benefit Ray of Hope, an important organization improving the lives of many of our community members (https://www. rayofhopeshow.com/).
Meron has long been associated with Lag B’Omer, with hundreds of thousands of people visiting during that brief period. This year, the festivities will be halted at the site, and I know many of us will take a moment to remember the 45 men and boys that were lost during the 2021 tragedy.
It would be obvious to write an article on Lag B’Omer, and that was my initial plan. But I decided to take a detour to discuss a day that just passed but is not recognized as widely. The korban Pesach is the only sacrifice that a person gets a second chance to offer if they were unable to do so the first time. This day is known as Pesach Sheini, and it was a time of rejoicing for those unable to bring their korban at the prescribed time.
While there is much to be said on this topic, it’s interesting to note that on Pesach Sheini we are given a second chance. As critical as the korban Pesach is, with so many intricate halachos, there are those who were unable to fulfill the
mitzvah at the appropriate time. Hashem gave them a second opportunity, another chance to fulfill this mitzvah and experience the holiness that comes with it.
While Pesach Sheini is only there to correct a specific situation, there are many times that children and adults can make a mistake. Perhaps a child spoke lashon hara about another or a teen did something forbidden on Shabbos, chas v’shalom. There are also errors of a different nature. This includes showing up to an event at the wrong time or accidentally kicking a ball into a neighbor’s window. We’re all human, and we err. Making mistakes is one of the very definitions of being human. Imperfection is inherent, and teshuva exists to permit us to correct this. Parents and children make mistakes and fixing them is part of our journey. It’s not “if” we will make mistakes, but “when.” We feel discouraged and bad about ourselves when we err, unsure of our next steps. As parents, we can guide our children to learn from their mistakes and forgive themselves as they grow, giving themselves a healthy way to move forward and progress in their development.
It’s human to err, but it’s still unpleasant. Our response depends on the mistake, but there are a few common reactions, and a person may experience one or more of them. There are a surprising number of conflicts that exists within our choice of response. Like most areas,
learning balance is important. Ignore it. Some mistakes are so small they’re not worth correcting. A problem can arise when children get hyper-focused on a minor error and give it too much prominence. When this happens, the child can’t get past the error, and they waste emotional energy feeling bad about themselves. It’s also an issue when children consider a big mistake to be a minor one. A child could seriously hurt a classmate’s feelings yet think whatever they did was “no big deal.” It takes chinuch and maturity to understand what can be ignored and what needs further attention.
Feel remorse. An essential step of teshuva, feeling regret is a prerequisite to correcting a wrong, particularly if the mistake was halachic. There are specific ways to do this and a rav can explain better. Unfortunately, extremely strong feelings of regret can impede growth or make one feel negative about themselves. Children need to learn to balance regretting their
learn to ask before acting when they’re unsure. A child who shows up at the incorrect time can learn to write down their activities in a calendar. Kicking a ball away from a neighbor’s window will prevent costly damage. Learning to correct mistakes is a crucial step in their development. Often,
Kids make mistakes. It’s the reality and learning from those errors is a major part of their development. Kids usually feel bad afterwards, and we don’t need to exacerbate their negative feelings. We can comfort and reassure
Mistakes do not define us, and children should recognize their self-worth, even with their imperfections.
mistakes are the only way to learn the appropriate actions.
When possible, we can help children do the right thing. We can help them say “sorry,” be kinder to a classmate, or demonstrate organizational skills. It can
them that it’s normal to make mistakes and that it doesn’t take away from who they are.
We should never shame, embarrass or mock a child for making a mistake. It is hurtful both to the child and to our
An extremely large number of parents feel guilty. “I should have done this” or “I can’t believe I did that.” I speak to many good mothers who love their children, yet are overwhelmed by their parenting errors. Parents make mistakes, too, and can feel disheartened. We also need to remember that we won’t get everything correct, and we need to use these errors as lessons to propel ourselves further, not weigh ourselves down.
Feeling remorse is a crucial part of growth but can easily overwhelm and set someone back. We can forgive ourselves, contemplate ways to correct our actions, and do better in the future. Acting as models for our children, we can teach them to balance their feelings, as we all continue to grow and improve ourselves.
Along with forgiving ourselves, we can learn to forgive others. Children can act up, neighbors can be rude, and friends can disappoint. Others deserve a second
Consuming breakfast is important for our health and wellbeing. Despite how essential this meal is, individuals often skip breakfast for various reasons – from lack of appetite in the morning, time constraints, or simply misunderstanding its benefits. Let’s delve into the manifold benefits of consuming breakfast, noting its importance in enhancing physical health, mental wellbeing, and better quality of life.
First off, eating breakfast aids your daily nutritional intake. After a full night of fasting and with blood sugar levels low, your body requires glucose to help replenish our energy store. Glucose, our body’s main source of energy, is crucial and is the primary source of energy for our brain. Ideally, breakfast should be eaten within an hour to an hour and a half of waking up. Doing so can lead to improved problem-solving skills, concentration, and mental clarity. According to some research, skipping breakfast was associated with risks of depression and anxiety, highlighting how breakfast has an impact on mental health.
Carbohydrates along with proteins and fats are the three main sources of nutrients needed in our bodies. Carbohydrates get broken down into glucose or blood sugar which is our body’s main energy source. The most common sources of carbohydrates are bread, pasta, cereals, cakes and crackers. It’s important to choose whole grains as opposed to refined grains to reap the most benefits for your health. Sources of whole grains include whole wheat bread, brown rice, and oatmeal, which offer an abundance of nutrients, vitamins, minerals, and fiber that your body needs. Refined carbohydrates, or simple carbohydrates, have been processed and removes most of the nutritional value. Try to limit or avoid foods with lots of added sugar as they most often contain many calories but lack nutrition. An excess of added
sugar can raise your blood sugar levels and lead to other health conditions.
Common breakfast foods such as whole grains, fruits, dairy products, and protein sources like eggs or nuts are rich in vitamins, minerals, and other nutrients. These components are key for maintaining energy levels, supporting metabolic functions, and ensuring overall bodily health.
More so, breakfast cereals fortified with vitamins and minerals can help individuals meet their daily recommended intake of nutrients like iron, calcium, and B vitamins. These nutrients are vital for bone health, oxygen transport, and energy production. Particularly in children and adolescents who are still growing and developing, consuming breakfast is pivotal.
Along with the physical health benefits, breakfast has significant effects on cognitive function and mental health. Studies have shown that individuals who consumed breakfast had better task performance, memory, and attention span. Specifically, school-aged children
that consume breakfast see positive effects on their academic performance as well as their classroom behavior.
Consuming breakfast is associated with weight management and better metabolic health. A healthy breakfast can help kickstart your metabolism, helping your body burn calories more efficiently throughout the day. Additionally, breakfast consumption helps regulate hunger hormones which reduces the likelihood of overeating later on in the day. Those who skip breakfast may be more likely to experience fluctuations in their blood sugar levels which can lead to increased hunger and a higher tendency to consume higher calorie, nutrient-poor snacks. This pattern can contribute to health conditions like obesity and cardiovascular disease.
The most common reasons I hear from individuals for skipping breakfast are lack of hunger in the morning and being time constrained. If you find yourself with not much of an appetite in the morning, you may be eating too late. If that’s the case, try pushing dinner
earlier, at least three hours before bed. Aside from helping with your appetite, eating right before bed can lead to indigestion and heartburn. Having a lighter breakfast, such as a smoothie or yogurt with fruit, may feel better on your stomach if you are not used to eating much.
If you are pressed for time in the morning, then meal prep is key. Oatmeal is a super quick dish to make, but if that’s too time consuming, try overnight oats. Oats contain lots of fiber. Top them with some berries and nuts, and it makes a great breakfast. Egg muffins are also a great option as they can be made and prepped ahead of time. Eating something is better than nothing. You don’t need much time to enjoy a healthy, filling breakfast.
Beyond the physical and mental benefits of eating breakfast, long-term wellbeing is important. Consuming breakfast regularly has been associated with reduced risks of chronic diseases. Some studies have found that individuals who eat breakfast regularly have a lower risk of hypertension and high cholesterol levels. In addition, they are less likely to develop metabolic syndrome which can increase the risks of diabetes, stroke, and heart disease.
The quality of your breakfast matters. A nutritious breakfast that contains whole grain, lean protein, and healthy fats can contribute to better long-term health outcomes compared to a high sugar, refined carbohydrate-filled breakfast. Thus, to maximize the health benefits, make mindful choices.
Tehila Soskel is a registered dietitian nutritionist with a private practice in the Five Towns. She sees clients for weight loss, diabetes, and other various diseases. Appointments can be made for in-person or virtual sessions: 516-457-8558, tehilasoskelrd@ gmail.com, tehilasoskelnutrition.com.
Note: Not all submission have been published. Keep sending in your artwork for another chance to be featured!
Note: Not all submission have been published. Keep sending in your artwork for another chance to be featured!
Dairy / Yields 12 servings
By Naomi Nachman
With Shavuot around the corner, I have been sharing quite a few dairy recipes. My daughter in Israel makes this a lot for her young family; she tells me it is always devoured quickly! You can eat them either as a burger in a bun or just have it plain.
◦ 1 medium onion, diced
◦ 2 Tablespoons canola oil
◦ 1 teaspoon kosher salt
◦ 2 cloves garlic, crushed
◦ ½ teaspoon cumin
◦ ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
◦ 2 eggs, lightly beaten
◦ 2 Tablespoons flour
◦ 1 cup panko crumbs
◦ 1 cup uncooked lentils, prepared according to package directions
◦ ½ cup feta cheese, crumbled
◦ Oil, for frying
◦ Storebought spicy mayo
◦ Tomato, additional feta, and buns, optional, for serving
1. Heat sauté pan over medium heat; add oil. When oil is hot, add onion; sauté for 5 minutes. Add garlic, cumin, and smoked paprika. Sauté for 2-3 minutes. Remove from heat; transfer to a mixing bowl.
2. Add lentils and feta to the onion mixture, stirring to combine. Add eggs, flour, and panko crumbs. Stir to combine; set aside to thicken for 20 minutes.
3. In a sauté pan over medium heat, heat 4 tablespoons canola oil.
4. Form the lentil mixture into patties; fry for 5 minutes on each side, until cooked through.
5. Serve on a bun with spicy mayo, a slice of tomato, and a sprinkle of feta, if desired.
Naomi Nachman, the owner of The Aussie Gourmet, caters weekly and Shabbat/ Yom Tov meals for families and individuals within The Five Towns and neighboring communities, with a specialty in Pesach catering. Naomi is a contributing editor to this paper and also produces and hosts her own weekly radio show on the Nachum Segal Network stream called “A Table for Two with Naomi Nachman.” Naomi gives cooking presentations for organizations and private groups throughout the New York/New Jersey Metropolitan area. In addition, Naomi has been a guest host on the QVC TV network and has been featured in cookbooks, magazines as well as other media covering topics related to cuisine preparation and personal chefs. To obtain additional recipes, join The Aussie Gourmet on Facebook or visit Naomi’s blog. Naomi can be reached through her website, www.theaussiegourmet.com or at (516) 295-9669.
