COLlive Magazine - Adar 5782

ISSUE 10

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PURIM 5782 / MARCH 2022

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‫כאן צוה ה' את הברכה‬

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‫בס"ד‬

M A G A Z I N E

Rebbetzin's Birthday:

Dangerous years in Europe First home on New York Ave.

Happy Purim!

On adults in costume Jewish lessons from fish The opposite of "addicted" Achieving true happiness 3 simple gourmet recipes

The Unapologetic diplomat

David Friedman speaks

Executive Platinum Chossid

Rabbi Mendel Duchman travels

They mean business

Rochie Sufrin of Crown Heights Esti Lowenbein of Pomona

From hippie to Shliach NYU's Rabbi Dov Yonah Korn

Chabad Summer Camp Directory • Crown Heights Kosher Food Guide

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CONTENTS Direct Diplomacy

12 26 32 54 4 COLlive Magazine

David Friedman, Israel and Trump

Chossid On The Go Travels of Rabbi Mendel Duchman

Mother & Mentor A son talks about his influence

Hippie to Shliach

Rabbi Dov Yonah Korn of NYU

10

Inspiring lessons

18

120 Years

22

Parnassah ahead

48

Dangerous years

58

Chessed grows

60

Boss lady

66

Summer plans

For month of Adar Celebrating 11 Nissan

Sara Schenirer expands

The Rebbetzin in Europe

Shifra & Puah organization

2 women who make it work

2022 Chabad Camp Directory

KOSHER

85

Simple recipes

94

Crown Heights Kosher

Rivky Kleiman

Local restaurant guide

COLUMNS

6

From the Publisher

8

Dvar Malchus

Mica Soffer

From the Rebbe

40

Flashback

80

Ask the Therapist

82

Health

99

Fun Page

Donors with the Rebbe Rabbi Daniel Schonbuch

Zacci Witkes Purim activities

104

Humor

107

Important Numbers & Zmanim

108

Then & Now

Mordechai Schmutter

346 New York Avenue

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FROM THE PUBLISHER MICA SOFFER

EDITOR Rabbi Yehuda Ceitlin ASSISTANT EDITOR Toiby Hayes CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Sandy Eller Zev Gotkin Libby Herz Rivkah Katz Mordechai Schmutter Rabbi Daniel Schonbuch Danit Schusterman Binyomin Weiss Chava Witkes Zacci Witkes Dovid Zaklikowski COVER PHOTO Shalom Burkis PHOTOS JEM Hasidic Archives Shalom Burkis Nechama Photography

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Phone: 718-427-2174 ext. 2 Email: ads@COLlive.com

EDITORIAL INQUIRIES OR SUBMISSIONS

Phone: 718-427-2174 ext. 1 Email: Editor@COLlive.com

COLlive Magazine is published in print periodically by the Collive Media Group Inc. and is distributed free in Brooklyn, NY. COLlive does not endorse any products or services reported about or advertised in COLlive Magazine unless specifically noted. The acceptance of advertising in COLlive Magazine does not constitute a recommendation, approval or other representation o quality of products or services, or the credibility of any claims made by advertisers including, but not limited to, the kashrus or advertised food products. The use of any products or services advertised in COLlive Magazine is solely at the user’s risk and COLlive accepts no responsibility or liability in connection therewith.

6 COLlive Magazine

The majority of our attention on Purim centers on Mishloach Manos.

We begin with writing lists of recipients and then reluctantly narrow them down. We think of a concept, go shopping, spend a night or two packing them, and then work on coordinating their delivery.

There was another Mitzvah that my father, Rabbi Shmarya Katzen OBM, would emphasize during my childhood. Midday, as we would all be busy with the hectic and exciting activities of the day, he would bring my siblings and me to 770 Eastern Parkway. There, he would hand out tzedaka and make sure we did Matanos L'evyonim as well.

What he taught us what that we should be performing all of the Purim's Mitzvos - Megillah, Mishloach Manos, Matanos L'evyonim and Seudas Purim - with equal zest and excitement. My father's attentiveness to tzedakah also showed that this was a Mitzvah in which we should all be partaking.

Crown Heights has been blessed with organizations that provide for people's needs and care for others all year round, and they are crucial and deserving of every possible support. And we also have organizations and new initiatives that are helping people earn a livelihood with dignity to provide for themselves and their families.

One person who is successful at combining both necessities is Rabbi Shloime Greenwald, an entrepreneur who is the Rov of Beis Gimpel Shul in Crown Heights and Menahel of the Kolel L'horaah Ma'asis in Crown Heights. During the pandemic, he was one of the people behind the Hatzalah-Thon, which supported the life-saving medical volunteer organization.

Wanting to streamline the donation process, he developed a fundraising platform that raised millions. He soon had other organizations asking to use RaiseThon.com for their crowdfunding. He happily obliged. "I feel like, as the proverb goes, that I'm not only giving a fish that will feed a person for a day but teaching them how to fish which could last them a lifetime," he says.

Even after the l'chaim and candy wear off, we can continue both Mishloach Manos care and our Matanos L'evyonim consideration. That can be done by shopping local, hiring local, and referring people to opportunities that come our way. Doing this - along with tzedakah - will ensure that everyone has what they need for the next Yom Tov of Pesach.

Wishing you all a happy Purim!

Mica Soffer

Photo by: Nechama Photography

PUBLISHER Mica Soffer

MicaSoffer FIND US ON SOCIAL MEDIA:

@COLliveOfficial

@COLlive

718.679.9450

An education lesson from Mordechai 8 COLlive Magazine

DVAR MALCHUS

By the Grace of G‑d 7 Adar, 5712 Brooklyn, N.Y. The Eleventh Annual Convention of The Committee for Furtherance of Jewish Education, under the auspices of the Merkos L'Inyonei Chinuch, Inc. G‑d bless you all Sholom u'Brocho: On the occasion of your Eleventh Annual Convention. taking place on Sunday, the eve of Erev Purim, 5712, I send you all — members, instructors and friends, my heartfelt greetings and best wishes.

I have followed with profound interest the work of your Committee, ever since its foundation by my father-in-law of sainted memory. I am glad to know that it has grown from year to year, in scope and quality, for in growth lies the sign of life. I trust it will continue to grow and at an accelerated pace, in accordance with the wishes of the great founder, and commensurate with the need of the hour.

Your convention taking place so close to Purim is full of significance and should set the tone for it.

Our Sages say that the Miracle of Purim, which rescinded the Heavenly decree for the Jews from death to life, physically and spiritually, was brought about by the fact that Mordechai had gathered 22,000 Jewish children, whom he taught the Torah and with whom he prayed for G‑d's mercy. He imbued them with the spirit of self-sacrifice so that they declared unanimously, "In life or in death we will not part from Mordechai!"

Let us remember that Mordechai was one of the heads of the Sanhedrin, the greatest Jew of his time in scholarship, piety and all possible attributes of greatness. Nevertheless, he set everything aside in order to strengthen the foundations of education, actually going in person to teach the holy Torah with piety and Mesiras Nefesh, to small children.

The profound message for us is this: No matter what one's station in life is, or how important one's activities seem to be, one must, first and foremost, dedicate at least some part of his time and efforts to the most important of all causes — saving our young generation through implanting into them devotion to all that has been holy to us ever since our ancestors received the Torah at Mount Sinai, devotion to the point of self-sacrifice. Only in this way can we make sure that the young generation will remain with us, and, as a matter of course, ensure the existence of our people. Moreover, herein lies our strength against all Hamans, and our security under G‑d's protection.

Wishing you success in increasing the number of your co-workers and instructors and, above all, the number of children under your influence. [signature]

Adar II, 5782 9

7 inspiring lessons

learned from

fish

By Rabbi Yehuda Ceitlin

The Hebrew month of Adar has begun, and it brings to our attention its zodiac sign —the fish. It may be surprising to many that literature on Jewish mysticism includes references to classical astrology - and the fish is a symbol that has profound significance in both. I thought it would be appropriate to consider these aquatic creatures and what they might teach us.

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ADAR

Here are seven lessons I've picked up from fish: 1. K EEP A FORWARD-LOOKING OUTLOOK Most fish cannot swim backward (eels being a rare exception). Memories can ground us and help inform our decisions, but our sights should be set firmly on the present, with the goal of shaping the future.

To paraphrase Reb Yisroel Salanter, so long we are alive, we can still accomplish more.

2. EVERYONE MOVES AT THEIR OWN PACE While sailfish can move at nearly 70 miles per hour, the dwarf seahorse moves at five feet per hour. The latter's pace is so slow you'd barely be able to tell it's moving at all. Even if our pace is slow, it doesn't mean we are not moving at all. Shlomo Hamelech tells us, "Train a child according to his way" (Mishlei 22:6). Progress for one individual can look very different than progress for another. None of us should try to always be a sailfish. We just need to make sure we are swimming in a good direction.

3. N EVER LET DOWN YOUR GUARD ABOUT YOURSELF Most fish do rest but they never sleep as humans do.

This is so they can remain alert about danger. When we've worked on ourselves and feel that we've reached a level of success, it's easy to

let our guard down. But as Hillel Hazaken said, "Do not trust yourself until the day of your death" (Pirkei Avot 2:4).

Complacency can lead to backsliding and losing much of what we have gained.

4. Y OUR SHARP EDGES AFFECT YOU TOO The fangtooth fish is several inches long, but its teeth are so disproportionately large, it cannot close its own mouth.

That physical constraint can let a lot of food just float away.

Being particularly sharp or acerbic can be an advantage that prevents people around us from taking advantage of us. But having extra-sharp teeth might come back to bite us or at least leave us limited by our inability to maintain social connections.

5. WHEN A LEADER IS NEEDED, STEP INTO THE BREACH Male angelfish live with several female mates. If the male dies, one of the females will change to male and assume the place of the fallen leader. This particular form of gender fluidity is about individual responsibility.

Throughout our lives, we may rely on leadership figures to guide us along the way.

But we need to remember that when confronted with a challenge that requires that we step up, we each have the potential to become a leader (Pirkei Avot 2:5).

6. DON'T BE A FISH OUT OF WATER Fish need oxygen-rich water to survive. The great Tanna Rabbi Akiva was once asked why he continued to study Torah when the Romans forbade it.

He answered: As water is to a fish, so is Torah to the Jew (Gemara Brachos 71b). The Torah provides direction and purpose and is the secret to Jewish survival.

7. NO MATTER WHERE YOU ROAM, YOUR SOUL CAN ALWAYS COME BACK HOME Salmon travel hundreds of miles and spend years in the ocean, far from their breeding grounds. And yet, when it's time, they find their way back to the same riverbed in which they were spawned. Every human being was created in the image of their Creator and has a mission to fulfill during his or her lifetime. As far as we may ever stray from our true identity, we can always circle back to our neshama as spiritually-conscious beings.

- Rabbi Yehuda Ceitlin, Editor of COLlive.com and COLlive Magazine, is the outreach director of Chabad Tucson, and associate rabbi of Cong.

Young Israel of Tucson, Arizona. He coordinates the annual Yarchei Kallah gathering of Chabad Rabbonim and Roshei Yeshiva.

Adar II, 5782 11

THE UNAPOLOGETIC DIPLOMAT David Friedman talks about his unprecedented ambassadorship and historic accomplishments

By Sandy Eller

Just weeks after the release of a revealing memoir, the former United States Ambassador to Israel David Friedman elaborated on his White House experiences during a candid interview at the Chabad of the Five Towns 27th annual dinner held on February 15.

Friedman, a lifelong resident of the Five Towns on Long Island, was a pivotal member of the administration of President Donald Trump, both of whom took office with no prior political experience.

Moving away from established protocols, Friedman employed the same no-nonsense and unapologetic approach that made him a successful

12 COLlive Magazine

bankruptcy lawyer to Middle East policy.

That tactic ultimately led to the signing of the historic Abraham Accords, as well as the recognition of Jerusalem

as Israel's capital, the move of the U.S. Embassy from Tel Aviv to Jerusalem, America's departure from the Iran nuclear deal, and the categorization of the BDS movement

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Ambassador David Friedman and his wife Tammy receive the Ambassadors of Light Award at the Chabad of the Five Towns Dinner

as a "manifestation of antisemitism," among other accomplishments.

Friedman's book titled Sledgehammer describes how he worked closely

with Trump's foreign policy team of Jared Kushner and Jason Greenblatt. It offers a behind-the-scenes look at the negotiations process that led to unprecedented peace initiatives.

Friedman and his wife Tammy were honored as Ambassadors of Light by Rabbi Zalman and Chanie Wolowik at Chabad of the Five Towns' dinner held at the Sephardic Temple in Cedarhurst. They also received a citation from Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman. Friedman then sat for a candid fireside chat with renowned attorney Benjamin Brafman, a longtime friend and a fellow Five Towns resident, which is excerpted here.

Ben Brafman: Did you ever imagine as you were growing up that one day, you'd be the United States ambassador to the State of Israel?

David Friedman: No. So many unlikely events had to happen for me to get to this place, including meeting and successfully representing Donald Trump, his presidential run, and my contested nomination as ambassador, made even before Trump took office. I managed to get through that process and a tight vote by the Senate Foreign Relations Committee before securing a highly contested Senate confirmation. As anyone who understands probabilities can appreciate, the likelihood of all those things happening is

Adar II, 5782 13

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David Friedman (third with left) with President Donald Trump, Vice President Mike Pence and senior administration officials in the Oval Office, September 11, 2020 (Official White House Photo by Tia Dufour)

incredibly slim, which is why I saw the hand of G-d at play from the very beginning.

Brafman: When it came time to say the opening prayer at the new embassy, of all the great Jewish men you have met, you picked Rabbi Zalman Wolowik. What is your connection to him?

Friedman: Rabbi Wolowik and I studied Navi together.

When you learn Navi, you see one thing - when the Jewish people are with G-d, G-d is with the Jewish people, and what you can accomplish is boundless. When the Jewish people are not with G-d, there is almost nothing that you can achieve, and that's the story of the neviim from beginning to end. I learned that with Rabbi Wolowik, and I couldn't think of anyone

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better to be on stage with me at that momentous occasion.

Brafman: What you managed to accomplish in the four years was breathtaking, and you did it with perhaps the most antisemitic State Department imaginable.

Did you feel that they were antisemitic, that they were just ignorant, or both?

Friedman: The State Department has a long history of being somewhere between antisemitic and recreationally antisemitic - just antisemitic enough.

When preparing for my Foreign Relations Committee interview, I was struck by an incredible message treasury secretary Henry Morgenthau wrote to President Franklin D. Roosevelt in 1943. It detailed how the State Department

contributed to the United States' failure to save European Jewry, standing in the way of his suggestions such as bombing the tracks to Auschwitz or taking modest steps that could have saved hundreds of thousands of lives.

We saw in 1948 how Secretary of State George Marshall was very much against recognizing the State of Israel and that the State Department was against it as well. Even now, the entire State Department's Near East Affairs Unit, which is what they call the Middle Eastern Affairs unit, are all Arabists, and it's not a friendly place, but I don't work for them. Many of my fellow ambassadors very much wanted the title, the

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parties, and the events, but I had a very long agenda with a limited amount of time to make things happen.

Having the benefit of an existing relationship with the president was very helpful.

When they would tell me I couldn't do certain things, I would say, "you make your case to the president, and if he agrees with you, great, but if not, I'm going keep doing what I'm doing until the president stops me."

They were all afraid of Trump and didn't want to call him, so we just plowed through, checking off boxes, one at a time.

Brafman: They were afraid of Trump?

Friedman: Who wouldn't be afraid of Trump? He was the president of the United

returned my phone calls in all the time he was Secretary of State. One instance was when the president met with me, General Mattis,

President Trump saw what I saw in the State Department...

States and didn't like people who didn't agree with him or were disloyal to him. I think he saw what I saw in the State Department, beginning with Rex Tillerson, who never

Secretary Tillerson, NSC head McMaster and Vice President Pence, with Nikki Haley joining on video.

He had us go through the Jerusalem issue point by

The Abraham Accords Signing Ceremony on September, 2020, on the South Lawn of the White House (Official White House Photo by Tia Dufour)

Adar II, 5782 15

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President Donald Trump and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu talk at the Israel Museum in Jerusalem, May 23, 2017 (Official White House Photo by Shealah Craighead)

point. By all rights, I should have had a low probability of succeeding, but I prayed very hard that morning, and the president agreed with me, and we moved forward in support of Jerusalem. It really starts and ends with a very strong relationship with the president - if the president is with you, nothing holds you back.

Ambassador David Friedman shows U.S. Secretary of State Michael Pompeo a painting of Jews bringing bikurim in the times of the Beis Hamidkash at the U.S. Embassy in Jerusalem, March 21, 2019 (Photo: Matty Stern/U.S. Embassy Jerusalem)

cousin and his daughter died in a Café Hillel bombing the night before her wedding.

Purchasing the most oversized apartment I could find was my way of doing something to show that the Jewish people weren't being thrown out of Israel. It had an effect on him.

Brafman: In the book, you describe how Trump saw the plans for your apartment in Yerushalayim and asked how much it cost.

Brafman: The part of the book I found most remarkable was that people were trying to undermine you until the last minute when you unveiled the plaque on the embassy.

Friedman: When I told him, he told me East Hampton is a lot cheaper. I explained that people have been fighting over every inch of Jerusalem for over 3,000 years. Still, to my knowledge, nobody's fighting over any part of East Hampton, so this was probably the better investment in the long run. I told him that we had bought the apartment after my

Friedman: Tillerson was putting out memos every day, calling for 75 different issues to be analyzed, doing everything he could to slow this down. I called up the president and asked him if he wanted to do things the way I envisioned or according to Rex's five-year plan. He told me that what I was doing sounded great, and we agreed to open the

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embassy on May 14, 2018, the 70th anniversary of the independence of the State of Israel. At his instruction, I sent out a memo telling Rex and his crew that the president had put me in charge, and their heads exploded when they realized there was nothing they could do about it. It was all 'min hashamayim' to be able to countermand the Secretary of State, the Secretary of Defense, the National Security Advisor, and the CIA. Until today, I'm not sure exactly how it happened but thank G-d it did.

Brafman: You shared a close relationship with Vice President Mike Pence. In the book, you describe an emotional scene where he had tears in his eyes when he saw that you had put his name on the plaque outside the embassy.

Friedman: Mike Pence is an incredible mensch. The

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President Donald Trump signs a proclamation recognizing Israel's sovereignty over the Golan Heights in the Diplomatic Reception Room of the White House, March 25, 2019 * Official White House Photo by Shealah Craighead

typical language on a plaque for new embassies lists the president, secretary of state, and the ambassador, but at the time, Tillerson had left, and Pompeo hadn't come in yet. I had room to add a name, and I didn't tell Pence about it beforehand - to this day, he tells me it is the greatest thing that he has.

He is an extraordinary lover of Israel, and it comes deeply from the heart.

Brafman: Tell us about the time you showed Trump snippets of Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas calling the United States a bad place.

Friedman: Trump's first visit to Israel was in May of 2017, and he went to Saudi Arabia, to Israel and to the Vatican.

A very well-respected guy told him during that trip that Abbas wanted to make peace, but Bibi (Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu) was standing in his way.

Ambassador David and Tammy Friedman (left) visit the Kfar Chabad Matzah Bakery with local Rabbi Meir Ashkenazi and Five Towns Shluchim Rabbi Zalman and Chanie Wolowik on March 20, 2018 * Photo: U.S. Embassy Jerusalem

Hearing this from what he believed to be a reliable source, Trump was convinced he would come to Israel and beat up on Netanyahu so he could make peace.

Jason Greenblatt tipped me off, and I warned Bibi of the impending disaster.

I then made a two-minute video of some of Abbas' worst statements like, "every drop of every blood of every terrorist is holy," and "we'll never stop paying terrorists."

I played the video the next day while Trump was meeting with Bibi at the King David Hotel. Jared, Tillerson and three guys on the Israeli side were there as well.

Trump was really upset. He said Abbas seemed so nice and sweet when they met in Washington. The next day, there was a meeting between Trump and Abbas in Bethlehem. Abbas refused to let me attend. That angered the president. He gave it to

Abbas, telling him that he was only pretending to want peace. Trump then told him that he wasn't going to allow him to kill Jewish people.

When I came back to Washington a month later, Tillerson and McMaster called me in for a meeting, and were furious with me for showing a video without clearing it with them. I told them that I worked for the president, not for them, and I wasn't going to allow the president to make foreign policy decisions based on misinformation. I told them point-blank, if you think I did something wrong, tell the president and let him fire me...

Brafman: David, you are a hero. Thank you for everything you have done, standing up for the Jewish people and the State of Israel.

Adar II, 5782 17

120 YEARS Celebrating 11 Nissan Food for thought as we approach the Rebbe's 120th birthday

Watch

a subtitled version of the Sicha from JEM

Learn

this Sicha from the original in Sichos Kodesh 5741 vol. 1 p. 398

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11 NISSAN

Chassidim around the world are preparing themselves for the Rebbe’s 120th birthday on Yud-Aleph Nissan.

How can I get excited about the Rebbe’s birthday?

How can I connect myself to something that happened so many years ago, and so far away?

The following is an essay based on a Sicha the Rebbe spoke on the 120th birthday of the Rebbe Rashab.

Transcending Reality How many of us ask ourselves the question: I’m a regular Chossid living in Brooklyn, New York. I have a business, a busy schedule and a lot going on at home every day.

Is it demanded from me to be totally involved in Torah and Mitzvos, and devote myself entirely to fulfill the Rebbe’s will? If so, how practically can I transcend my reality and invest myself totally into a place so much higher than the world I see, the "real world" where business comes first?

In Yud-Aleph Nissan language: This year on YudAleph Nissan, Chassidim are celebrating the day the Rebbe was born 120 years ago. How can I get excited over and relate to something that happened so long ago and so many miles away?

In essence, the question is a lot more general: Torah demands that I be happy in the place where I am notwithstanding any hardships that may befall me. How is that possible? How can I

juggle reality and happiness simultaneously? Does Torah demand that I should live in denial, ignoring my hardships and current state?

The short answer is: Yes, we live in the physical world. Yes, we are bound by limitations.

But in our physical and limited reality we can live a higher life. A life of connection and transcendence.

Torah does not demand that we deny reality, rather it demands of us to live a higher life while in this physical world, to be in touch with our true reality. Internalizing that we aren't merely bodies that contain souls, rather we are souls within bodies.

In regards to the Rebbe's birthday: Although the Rebbe’s birthday may have been an event from the distant past, 120 years ago, and although many of us have never seen the Rebbe physically, it remains relevant.

We can still celebrate YudAleph Nissan with full energy and passion.

In the Rebbe’s words, which

he said in a voice choked with emotion (free translation): There is no greater test than the one which challenges us today in regards to how to influence another Jew to extricate himself from his own personal exile.

As we see in reality the hardship of influencing a person – that while he stands here on a seemingly regular Thursday night, living in New York among nine million other people, and he has all of his businesses from which he just arrived, and while he is preparing (willingly or not) to think about how to run his business tomorrow morning – that he should know that [today] is the birthday of a great personality who was born 120 years ago in a small town across the ocean, and that this fact should have an effect on him as he sits here in Brooklyn and goes about his business…

He knows that he whose birthday is today was a great personality, a Nossi, neshama klolis and more;

Adar II, 5782 19

11 NISSAN

however, he does not see how this connects to his dayto-day life on Thursday of Parshas Chayei Sarah 5741 in Brooklyn!

Although it is true that because he is polite and respectful (among other reasons) he came to sit by this farbrengen; he is only here in body. Where his head is we cannot know! Now he is thinking about his business dealings of yesterday, and then he will think about the dealings he hopes to make tomorrow (and may Hashem grant him much success in his business ventures).

We are demanding from him what seems to be two polar opposite ideas – that together with the knowledge that it is Thursday, the week of Parshas Chayei Sarah

5741 in Brooklyn, and along with all of his activities – in those minutes (or hours) that he is in a holy place, where the leader of the generation my father-inlaw the Rebbe learned and davened, blessed Yidden, accepted requests, as well as participated in the joys and tragedies of Jews worldwide – one should influence himself that in these moments, Torah [as opposed to business] should be his occupation. Now [in these minutes] you are a Chossid of the Rebbe nesi doreinu, the successor [of the Rebbe Rashab] whose birthday is today, and as a Chossid you have to impact yourself to go out of yourself!

You know that you are in Brooklyn and must act as one must behave in exile,

however that is not relevant to your experiences, to your inner being and excitement.

And therefore we demand of you, that during the time of this farbrengen you should influence yourself, that during these moments and hours you are no longer so and so who lives in Brooklyn, on the 20th day of the month of Cheshvan in 5741 [...] rather you are a Chossid of the Rebbe!

So How Can I Get A Feel For This?

This question – and seeming contradiction – is assumingly a most relatable feeling. Yes, I am a Chossid, and yes, I understand that the Rebbe is a Nossi, leader of the Jewish people today more

The Rebbe’s new Kapitel Chassidim have the custom of saying the Rebbe’s Kapitel after davening daily. The words of the Kapitel we will begin saying on the upcoming Yud-Aleph Nissan share an identical meaning to the topic we are addressing now: Kapitel 121 begins with the words: "hrzg tuch ihtn ohrvv kt hbhg tat ,ukgnk rha‫” – י‬A song of ascents. I lift my eyes to the mountains; from where will my help come?”

Aside from the basic meaning of the pasuk, that the words "hrzg tuch ihtn" are a question, these words can also be read as a statement: "hrzg tuch ihtn'" my help comes from the level of “Ayin.”

Indeed, a Yid is “helped” from the highest levels, but notwithstanding the high levels from which help does come, this special heavenly help extends all the way down to the physical world, to help a Yid in a practical sense. As the pasuk continues: wv ogn hrzg" ".rtu ohna vaug – my help is from Hashem, creator of heaven and earth”: the “help” that comes from the level of “Ayin” comes from Hashem, the creator of heaven and earth, even the lowest parts of our physical world.

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11 NISSAN

than ever. But on the other hand, practically, how can I allow this understanding to actually shift my life as a chosid from a role to my foremost identity, changing the way I feel and impact me practically as we prepare for the Rebbe’s 120th birthday?

The Torah does not deny this inner conflict, on the contrary, Torah acknowledges it. Hashem created a limited world bound by time and space and wants a Yid to live and thrive in these limitations – study the weekly Chumash, daily Rambam and more.

But notwithstanding these limitations, there are still ways to connect: 1) Focus. Pull yourself out of your day-to-day schedule and take a moment, once a day, twice a day, or at least once a week – it doesn’t only

have to be in the days before Yud-Aleph Nissan – and focus on the Rebbe. Forget about everything around you, the recent uptick in your business (hopefully) and the hustle and bustle of city life, realize that you are a Chossid, contemplate on the relevance of Torah to your daily business dealings. Perhaps even lock yourself in a room for some peace and quiet.

2) Study. The Rebbe invested his very essence into his Torah, as it is said regarding Torah in general: “,hcvh ,hc,f hapb tbt – I inscribed and brought my very essence [into the Torah].” Before the Rebbe Rashab was passed away he said (free translation): “I am ascending to heaven, but the kesovim (my writings) I leave with you.”

Take a Maamar or a Sicha, and lose yourself in the holy words, ever relevant, inspiring, and practical.

Ignore the clock for those precious moments, forget about everything around you, "at the moment I am a Chossid of the Rebbe."

It is in these moments – when you apply these two methods – when it will finally hit you: My Rebbe, born 120 years ago in a small city across the ocean, is ever relevant. I may be involved and busy making a living in New York City, but I can plug in, I can attach myself to something higher, something much deeper than the here and now; not something removed, but a Rebbe that speaks to me, in my situation and has an affect in my day-to-day life full of challenges and normal preoccupations.

Practical ways to celebrate Yud-Aleph Nissan Prepare: Log onto 11Nissan.com for a plethora of Yud-Aleph Nissan resources from Vaad Or Vechom Hahiskashrus.

Gift: In accordance with the Rebbe’s request that gifts presented for his birthday include Torah, the Tzach offices are arranging an international chaluka of the Rebbe’s Torah. Log onto: YudAlefNissan120.com to participate.

Share: The Rebbe expressed that his birthday be used out to help any Yid who may be lacking his Pesach needs. Order Matzos to distribute to your acquaintances from Lubavitch Youth organization: (718) 953-1000 Celebrate: Those who can should visit the Rebbe's Ohel - men, women and children.

Hold a Yud-Aleph Nissan celebration with your family! Head out to your local grocery store for some refreshments, and inspire your children with a warm and special message for the Rebbe’s 120th birthday.

Adar II, 5782 21

Educating for Parnassah

Following its success with women, Sara Schenirer Institute opens a branch for men

By Libby Herz

22 COLlive Magazine

CAREERS

Sara Schenirer Institute. "We have the highest standards and are extremely careful that the hashkafa is correct. You should be able to have your degree and still be in the right environment."

Until recently, if a Crown Heights woman wanted a degree through Sara Schnerir to help support her family, she needed to drive to Boro Park multiple times a week.

Avtzon has encouraged her mother, two sisters-inlaw, three brothers-in-law, and husband to receive their degrees through Sara Schenirer. As a sought-after instructor at the institute, she realized that it was time to open a Crown Heights branch.

"Girls, who can tell me who was Sara Schenirer?" the young teacher asked thirdgraders at the Bais Rivkah in Crown Heights.

The students looked at each other, unsure of the answer.

Finally, one girl raised her hand. "I don't know her, but my mother works for her."

That was the daughter of Aidella Avtzon and she indeed works for Sara Schenirer - the institute.

The seminary was founded

by Schenirer, who was born in Krakow, Poland. When she sought to establish a Jewish school for girls, she received a blessing from the Belzer Rebbe R' Yissachar Dov Rokeach. She went on

to open a kindergarten in her seamstress studio and then founded the Bais Yaakov schools, which sprouted in America. In 1923, she opened her famous teacher's seminary.

The Sara Schenirer Institute helps thousands of frum adults achieve outstanding education in the most accessible, affordable, and accelerated manner possible, all while upholding their standards of Yiddishkeit.

Today, schools in Crown Heights are bursting with therapists and specialists who are graduates of the Sara Schenirer Institute. "All our professors are frum," says Avtzon, coordinator of the Crown Heights branch of

Rabbi Elazar Meisels, Dean of the institute, offered Avtzon to run it and she agreed without hesitation. For their first Open House in Crown Heights, she was expecting 50 people. 100 showed up. "They were all ages," she says.

In attendance were women in their 50s and 60s who wanted to support their families and young girls who dreamed of teaching young children social skills and essential reading skills. Avtzon noticed that many of the young women in attendance were the daughters of Chabad Shluchim. "Their parents wanted them to be able to make a living, but not at the expense of a chassidish environment with proper hashkafa," says Avtzon.

Adar II, 5782 23

CAREERS

Today, Crown Heights also has a second branch for men, which runs online and is geared to frum men who work during the daytime. "We help people save time and money," Avtzon says. The men's branch offers degrees in business administration, social work, cyber security, and more.

Staff at Sara Schenirer pride themselves on helping each student as it is often overwhelming to begin dealing with paperwork, essays, and assignments.

Sara Schenirer's wellestablished online program has separate cohorts for men and women. "We first

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Essentially, each student of the Sara Schenirer Institute has a job before they graduate started a Zoom program for girls who didn't live in local communities. We have lots of girls on shlichus who join that program," says Chaya Leah Kotler, Online Program Director and Instructional Designer.

Sara Schenirer partners

with colleges to offer highquality degrees. "Out of all other colleges in the tristate area, we educated the most special-ed therapists," Avtzon says. The institute also provides a social program through Yeshiva University, a Speech program, MBA program, and ABA program.

CATEGORY

"It's not just for educators," Avtzon says.

Sara Schenirer stands out in the way they take care of their students. "We have a no-student-left-behind policy," Avtzon quips. 94% of Sara Schenirer students graduate. "We literally hold their hand and get them through it." The sense of community is strong.

"College can be a daunting process," says Kotler. The most critical question for every staff member at Sara Schenirer is, "how can we make it easier for them?"

The goal of the institute is to help people make a quality parnassah and not to over-complicate their lives with minutia.

Once, a teacher at the institute required a specific book for class but the book wasn't available for purchase. The staff members divided the books between themselves and personally dropped them off at each student's door to avoid scrambling for them at the last minute.

One teacher made time to walk her student through all of her coursework via a phone call because the student was not fluent in English, Avtzon notes.

All teachers at the institute are professionals in their fields. Mrs. Aidel Sputz teaches Special Education, and Mrs. Dassie Berg, an expert reading specialist,

teaches reading skills. A popular frum couple's counselor teaches the psychology course. "We make sure that each degree works, and that you can get a job with it," says Avtzon.

Sara Schenirer Institute follows students through substantial life-changing events. While going through school, students get married, have babies, and their own children's weddings. And the staff are there through it all, helping each student navigate life while still earning their degrees.

For now, Sara Schenirer will continue supporting the frum community by helping them earn highlevel degrees in the most convenient way possible.

They will keep adding more programs to find the niche that works for them while saving time and money in the process.

One of the most telling signs of the success of Sara Schenirer is that the organizations and agencies call the school each year, asking them for the contacts of their graduates.

Essentially, each student of the institute has a job before they graduate. The personal support given to each student at Sara Schenirer creates men and women who can support their families and give back to the frum community.

WE HAVE

A Program

FOR YOU

UNDERGRADUATE PROGRAMS • BA in Psychology • BA in Psychology - Speech • BA in Psychology - Social Work • BA in Psychology - Education & Special Education • BA in Psychology - ABA • BS in Accounting - CPA Track • BS in Data Science GRADUATE PROGRAMS • MS in Education and Special Education • MPS in Applied Behavior Analysis • MS in Social Work • MS in Speech Language Pathology • MS in Business Administration • MS in Data Science • MS in Cybersecurity

Explore Your Degree Pathways at

www.sarasch.com

• In Class and Live Online • Federal and State Financial Aid available through FAFSA • 36 seminary credits accepted at no cost • BTL accepted • Hashkafically Sensitive

FOR A PERSONAL CONSULTATION OR FOR MORE INFORMATION: WOMEN: MRS. RIVKY MILSTEIN information@sarasch.com / 718-633-8557 ext. 32 MEN: RABBI ARIEL LEON aleon@sarasch.com / 718-633-8557 ext. 40

Sara Schenirer is not a college or degree-granting institution. All degrees conferred by Katz School of Science and Health, Wurzweiler School of Social Work, Manhattanville College, College of Mount Saint Vincent or St. Peter’s University

Adar II, 5782 25

Executive Platinum Chossid

Rabbi Mendel Duchman is a one-person traveling Chabad House

By Libby Herz

Airline travelers typically exude a sense of urgency as they prepare for a trip. They will double-check what they packed in their luggage, sit tensely during their ride to the airport, and maintain an anxious facial expression as they approach the ticket counter and pass a security check. When they are finally seated on board, they will release a sigh of relief.

Not Rabbi Mendel Duchman.

For this burly and thick-bearded Lubavitcher chossid, preparations for a flight are a breeze. "I keep aTallis, Tefillin, Siddur, Chitas, and a small Tzedaka box in my carry-on," says Duchman. He will begin the week by bringing donuts to his grandchildren in his hometown of Los Angeles, then crisscross the

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PROFILE

country during the week and stop in Crown Heights before returning home.

The average flight length for this frequent flyer is four to seven hours, earning him an Executive Platinum status on American Airlines. "If I don't hear an airplane engine after a week, I get depressed," he jokes. While most of his travels are domestic, Duchman has been to exotic spots such as Alaska, Ko Samui in Thailand, and around Europe, South Africa and Australia.

Being on the go so often, Duchman celebrated some of the exciting moments in his life midair, like when he learned that his cousin R' Sholom Mordechai Rubashkin was commuted from a 27year prison sentence or when he got the news of the birth of a grandson. In both cases, Duchman broke out in a silent "joy dance" that he shared on social media to the delight of his friends and followers.

Once he's seated on board, Duchman's work continues.

"I once had a guy near me who was crying," he recalls. "It turns out he was Jewish, and his mother had just passed

away. He did not know a thing about Jewish burial." Duchman, always in action mode, instantly changed his flight plans and flew with the man to arrange a traditional Jewish funeral and Shiva.

"When I leave to the airport, I remind myself to be calmer, wiser, and to greet everyone with a smile. Look at a person's name tag, use their name, and say good morning. You'll make a Kiddush Hashem."

At JFK in New York, the sight of a Jew with a beard and Tzitizis is a regular occurrence. But in Eugene, Oregon, Duchman may be the only Jew many of the fliers have ever seen.

"People watch us," he says.

He travels with a black baseball cap that reads "ChabadLubavitch" with a burning flame near it. Very often, that is the trigger to open conversations with fellow travelers. "I am stopped during almost every

Adar II, 5782 27

PROFILE

trip by people telling me which Chabad they belong to," he says. "The conversations begin about something mundane, and once we get talking, we get to Yiddishkeit. I usually hear, 'do you know so-and-so? He’s my rabbi!'"

Not ironically, Duchman is always familiar with the Chabad rabbi from each city.

He not only knows Shluchim by name. He is also familiar with their families, the extent of the Chabad operations, and their most significant financial supporters. For the last 15 years, Duchman has served as a motivational coach to the Rebbe's Shluchim, guiding them with fundraising and growth. He has traveled to over 1,000 Chabad centers across North America and across the world.

When speaking to Shluchim,

Rabbi Mendel Duchman with Head Shliach of Brazil Rabbi Shabsi Alpern (left) and Rabbi Yossi Schildkraut, Shliach in the Itaim neighborhood of Sao Paulo

Duchman draws on personal experience, having served as the Shliach of Irvine in California from 1979 to 1991. Together with his wife Chana Rochel, Duchman built a thriving Jewish presence crowned by a 500-seat shul and community center, which continues to attract and grow. "I know the mistakes I made on Shlichus," he says bluntly, a trademark

Rabbi Mendel Duchman with Head Shliach of China Rabbi Mordechai Avtzon in Hong Kong

characteristic that allows him to make his point when difficult decisions need to be made.

Duchman called this venture "Padyom," a Russian term for 'pick yourself up and go.'

Covering the operating finances of a Chabad center is one of the most daunting tasks of Shlichus. "Shluchim would rather be giving a shiur than raising money," he says. "So I do whatever I can on my part to get the job done. I'll travel to the city, meet with the Shliach and donors, put together a plan and a to-do list and then follow up later to nudge it forward."

Despite his outgoing personality, Duchman tends to be tight-lipped on naming the Shluchim he's coached and the following successes. "We do a complete makeover, but it's not my story to tell," he says.

"For me, it's Shlichus. Once a Shliach, always a Shliach."

A Jew named Xavier Another cause for Duchman's extensive travels is his company,

Rabbi Mendel Duchman receives a dollar and bracha from the Rebbe (Photo: JEM / The Living Archive 2198464)

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PROFILE

Nonie of Beverly Hills. Its AHA! skincare products are made from Alpha Hydroxy Acids and natural ingredients and are sold in leading natural health food stores. They range from cleansing products, moisturizers for the face and body, sunscreens, and shave cream.

The concept originated in the kitchens of Hungary and Austria, where formulations of plant oils, fruit juices, and other organic ingredients were used to soothe, heal and renew the skin.

Nonie Fagatt made products for her own skincare and soon provided them to friends, family, and anyone who requested the Hungarian skincare formula.

Nonie's laboratory was opened in January 1994, and the popularity of the products grew rapidly. Duchman purchased the company with the encouragement of his wife and six daughters and now serves as its CEO. Nonie Fagatt remained on as a spokesperson until her passing in October 2011.

In his business dealings, Duchman puts his upbeat attitude front and center.

"People today are looking for positive energy and each of us can find that energy within ourselves. It is up to us to spread it outward and use it to uplift others," he says. And that includes Yiddishkeit.

One Friday morning, Duchman received a call from a young woman named Xavier, inquiring about ordering skincare products for her salon. The conversation focused on options and prices, until Xavier asked, "Are you part of the tribe?"

The question caught Duchman off-guard. "What do you mean?" he asked.

"I mean, are you a yid?" she said.

"Absolutely!" he answered.

Xavier then opened up about her background. She was a student of Beis Yaakov and has since changed her name from Esther to Xavier. Although she veered away from Yiddishkeit, she fondly remembered her past when she recognized Duchman's distinct Brooklyn Jewish accent. "My Zaidy was called Mendel!" she said.

Never one to let an opportunity pass, Duchman encouraged her to light Shabbos candles that Friday. And he topped it off with a characteristic deal - he will send her a pricey skincare gift if she lit candles. After Shabbos, Duchman opened an email from her sharing how her

hubby was in town that week and it makes the candle lighting all more meaningful. Duchman indeed sent her the gift.

As a frum Jew, he says that he is proud that his line of products is cruelty-free, making it congruous with vegans, vegetarians, and healthcare. "It makes this a better world to live in," he often tells customers. At trade shows, his team will keep the booth closed on Shabbos and leave a card explaining why. "I've found that 90% of the people come back to our booth after Shabbos and buy double from us out of respect," he says.

Shabbos Shlichus But wherever business and coaching may take him during the week, Duchman makes it a point to be back home in California for Shabbos.

Just like he doesn't rest while

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PROFILE

traveling, Duchman has a special Shabbos Shlichus on the day others utilize for rest. "I run the skincare business and Padyom in the middle of the week because I must be at the Rebbe's Diamond Daveners on Shabbos," Duchman says.

In 2000, Duchman established "Kol Yakov Yehuda - The Rebbe's Diamond Daveners," a children's minyan that operates out of Congregation Levi Yitzchok at North La Brea Avenue in the Hancock Park neighborhood of Los Angeles.

The minyan was the first of its kind - an official, weekly minyan run by kids for kids.

It was inspired by his father, R' Yisroel Duchman OBM, a fervent chossid who immigrated from Communist Russia and was a staple at 770 Eastern

30 COLlive Magazine

Parkway. R' Yisroel would daven as chazzan, make kiddush, and joyously dance on Simchas Torah. The children's minyan was named after Duchman's legendary father-in-law, Rabbi JJ Hecht OBM, a fiery chossid who led the NCFJE organization.

From the president to the rabbi, all Diamond Davener's minyan participants are bar mitzvah age and younger. The congregation consists of children only.

This child-centered minyan includes a proper kiddush, exciting prizes, trips, and, yes, fundraising. Since its first launch, five other cities have duplicated the model.

Today, the original congregation is grown-up and participating in various adult minyanim. Yet young children join Diamond

Daveners each year, keeping it strong. The minyan will be celebrating its 20th anniversary this year. This activity also led him to organize the annual Lag BaOmer Parade on behalf of Chabad of the West Coast for thousands of Jewish children and festive concerts and community farbrengens.

Duchman believes that no matter what line of business a Jew is in or where they are in life, they can uplift others and bring them closer to Yiddishkeit.

With decades of sharing inspiration, stories, and smiles, Duchman is proof that every person can help others. What's the first step to take? "Smile at someone, and they will smile right back at you." Now, take it from there.

‫ב’’ה‬

Give the gift of the Rebbe to your family

A fresh, easy to navigate, online platform featuring thousands of videos of the Rebbe for all parts of one’s life

My Mother, My Mentor A son talks about the influence of his late mother, Mrs. Penina Weinfeld

By Dovid Zaklikowski

Mrs. Penina Weinfeld gives a blessing to her son Rabbi Kalman Weinfeld

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FIRST PERSON

needed. They informed him that he would remain in Israel.

They told Kalman, "You will have your chance to study in New York, but not now."

Despite Kalman's attempts at persuasion, they had decided firmly against it. Kalman was crestfallen, but not yet deterred.

As a Bochur, the ever-ebullient Kalman Weinfeld finally found his place at a study table in the Toras Emes yeshiva in Jerusalem. His father, a wellknown publisher and author, Rabbi Shmuel Weinfeld, made it clear that grades meant little to him; instead, he wanted his son to live the Gemara and feel part of the legacy.

Indeed, Kalman thought he was reliving discussions from thousands of years prior.

Toward the end of the year, Kalman's study partner informed him of plans to spend the following year at a yeshiva in New York. Kalman felt that another year learning with this particular partner would serve him well in the future, so he asked his parents if he, too, could study in New York.

Kalman's parents were skeptical. They worried that a young Israeli teen in the United States might not apply himself to his studies as

He came up with a plan to coerce his parents into agreeing to send him to New York. He wrote a twelve-page letter explaining why it was a good idea, and ended with: "I want to give you space and time to think about this, so I will not come home until you are convinced that I should go."

Although Kalman dormed at the yeshiva, he visited his mother daily. His decision to remain in yeshiva was a significant stance. He kept true to his word and did not return home.

A few days later, while learning in the yeshiva's study hall, he was informed his father had come for a visit. Instead of approaching Kalman or the staff, he had simply watched Kalman studying for 20 minutes before leaving quietly.

Kalman felt this was a good sign. If my father sees my diligent studying, Kalman posited, surely he will grant me permission to go.

That night, when he returned to his dorm room, he was greeted with the smell of his favorite cake, baked by his

mother. It was still warm.

He then noticed that his mother changed his bedding, his dirty laundry was replaced with clean clothes, and his shelf was restocked with his favorite snacks. On the top shelf, he found a note and a bar of chocolate.

The note read: "To my dear Kalman, The saying goes, 'If the mountain does not come to Muhammad, then Muhammad must come to the mountain.'

We miss you, so we came to you. Father saw you learning nicely today, and he was happy. I came here with Chana and we saw your room is nice and organized; we are very happy. You should know that the doors of our home are open to you anytime. Feel comfortable to come home and we will not talk to you about anything that you will not feel comfortable about."

Kalman's resolve thawed immediately. He knew his parents had won this round.

Twenty minutes after he returned to his room that night, he was back home with his parents.

"I never spoke to my mother about that experience," says Rabbi Weinfeld, who is now a member of the Executive Rabbinical Council of OK Kosher and Rov of Congregation Beis Levi Yitzchok in Crown Heights.

Rabbi Weinfeld, who often shares anecdotes or sayings

Adar II, 5782 33

from his mother in his classes and videos, says his mother understood his mentality. In her unique way, she knew how to guide him, and he learned that his mother truly knew what was best for him at that juncture.

BRINGING WARMTH Mrs. Weinfeld spent her early years in Frauenkirchen, Austria. At a young age, as Nazism was beginning to sweep through the country, she escaped with her family to Israel. Living in Jerusalem, she later married Shmuel, son of Rabbi Yaakov Shaul Weinfeld, publisher of the Eshkol Publishing House. Together, they had 12 children.

Kalman remembers the home as one bustling with Jewish life. His father, today 84 years old, would pore over large tomes in his office, and his mother was frequently busy assisting others.

Despite her community activism, Mrs. Weinfeld found a way to be attentive to the needs of her children. "She knew how to direct every child in their own way," says Rabbi Weinfeld. "She loved each of us, and always wanted to do what was best for us."

When they would return home from school, a warm meal awaited them that catered to all their proclivities. She often encouraged her children to work toward a particular accomplishment, for which she promised their favorite dishes

34 COLlive Magazine

as a reward; she never failed to follow through.

Kalman clearly remembers Tisha B'Av as it was observed in their home. His mother sat the family on the floor and told them the story of the destruction of the Beis Hamikdash. "Even such a difficult day," Kalman recalls, "was full of passion for Judaism."

When she'd critique her children, she always did it positively. If Kalman said something his mother did not appreciate, she would simply respond, "Kalman, Good Shabbos." He understood that he had said something she didn't approve of, "for on Shabbos, you don't speak banality or lashon hara."

He says that his mother did not focus on particular actions

but rather the vast potential within each child. "She not only believed in us, she elevated us. She told us that we could reach great heights," Kalman recalls.

Quoting Mishlei, "Seven times the righteous man falls and gets up," she once asked Kalman why it says explicitly seven times, and not fewer. She explained that even a righteous person succumbs to mistakes every day of the week, but "they can still get up and return to a righteous path."

SPIRITUAL KINDNESS The Weinfeld home was permeated with care for others, with Mrs. Weinfeld at the helm. Kalman shared two examples. The mother of a large family across the street

FIRST PERSON

was placed on bed rest for eight months. Mrs. Weinfeld, without complaint, sent over a meal every single night.

Another family had tragically lost their mother. Mrs. Weinfeld walked 40 minutes to their home every Friday night, to be with the children while their father went to shul. She'd then walk 40 minutes back home in time for the meal.

Mrs. Weinfeld provided spiritual help, too.

Joining the Lubavitch Women's Organization in Jerusalem, she would visit women in their homes and gently encourage them to increase their mitzvah observance, be it by koshering their kitchens or keeping taharas hamishpacha.

She convinced the husband to put on Tefillin daily, and the wife to light Shabbos candles.

She gave them the number of the local shliach.

at the Lubavitch Women's Organization. Further down in her letter, she wrote about her visit to Vienna, and her interaction with the two couples.

While deplaning, an older woman tapped Mrs. Weinfeld's shoulder. She said that she overheard the conversation between Mrs. Weinfeld and the couple.

She explained that she and her husband were Holocaust survivors who abandoned Jewish observance long ago. "After I heard your conversation with that couple," the woman said, "we also want to start again. Can I have the rabbi's information?"

On the same letter, the Rebbe made an arrow from her request to stop home visits, to the events that had transpired on the airplane.

The Rebbe noted that from one part of the letter to the next there is a contradiction.

The Rebbe added blessings for her continued efforts doing home visits.

After returning from Austria, Mrs. Weinfeld wrote again to the Rebbe about wishing to step back from her role

The Rebbe's message came through clearly. She later explained, "We have to focus on action, not results. It is G-d's problem to determine what will actually happen."

At one point, she felt she did not see success in her role with the Lubavitch Women's Organization and that perhaps younger women should take over while she'd focus on lecturing. However, every time she asked the Rebbe, he told her to continue.

Once, while flying to Vienna to visit her daughter, she met a couple aboard speaking a mixture of Hebrew and German.

She approached them, and struck up a conversation. After years of studying in Israel, they were moving to Vienna. Mrs. Weinfeld told them that in Israel one feels Jewish life all around, but in Austria, you need to make an effort to integrate Jewish life into your home.

Her husband, Rabbi Shmuel Weinfeld of Jerusalem

Adar II, 5782 35

FIRST PERSON

THE ADVISOR Many turned to Mrs. Weinfeld for advice. On one occasion, a couple purchased an apartment. They deliberated between building a porch over an empty lot or the side of the building that overlooked a park. They eventually made a large down payment to have a porch built park-side.

A few weeks later, another family moved in next door.

They also wanted to build a porch on the side of the park.

It would be impossible to build both porches structurally, so the couple was in a bind.

The husband felt firm that it was in their right to stick to their original plans since they arrived first and had already paid for permits. The wife disagreed and felt that upholding peace was more important.

Seven times the righteous man falls and gets up, Mishlei says. Even a righteous

They turned to Mrs. Weinfeld.

person succumbs to mistakes every day of

After hearing both sides, Mrs. Weinfeld said that while the husband was technically right, for the sake of their quality of life, they should let the neighbors build as they wish.

Otherwise, she explained that you will feel uncomfortable around them for the rest of your life.

the week, but can still get up and return to

"You will hide when you see them. When you'll need an egg, you won't have anyone to turn to. When you need an extra place for a guest, they will not be welcomed. You are not going to enjoy your porch," she said. "But if you submit to their request, your life will be more pleasant."

She ended, "You never lose

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a righteous path.

when you choose to be kind.

You will gain so much more."

Looking back at his mother's life, Rabbi Weinfeld says, it was permeated with how to serve Hashem and how to assist another human being.

Serving Hashem, she would say, needs to be done not out of difficulty, but out of trust that this is what is right for our life.

He says that he wants his children to learn from her that

life has to be filled with joy, mitzvahs need to be done with a varmkeit (warmth), and we need to trust in Hashem. All three, his mother explained, are interconnected.

"Do not be worried about life," she told her son, "for Hashem is the manager of it, and ultimately you will learn why it was good for you. And when you know that Hashem's mitzvahs are for your good, you do them with fervor."

CATEGORY

Adar II, 5782 37

AD

AD

Moments the

with

Rebbe

PRESENTED BY JEM

Several times a year, members of the Machne Israel Development Fund would visit the Rebbe. They would each have a special opportunity to speak to the Rebbe privately at 770 Eastern Parkway. Presented here are scenes from 20 Adar II, 5749 - 1989.

40 COLlive Magazine

FLASHBACK JEM/The Living Archive

Mr. David Chase, a major supporter of Chabad and Jewish institutions, who served as chairman of the board of Machne Israel Development Fund, greets the Rebbe.

Adar II, 5782 41

FLASHBACK

“You are such a big girl!” The Rebbe instructs that all children old enough should recite the Four Questions at the Seder.

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FLASHBACK

Mr. Chaim Spiegel presents a photo album from a recent Kosher cruise. The Rebbe directs him for the next cruise on Chol Hamoed to only offer Shmurah Matzah and to influence the participants so that even after they return home, they continue to eat Shmurah Matzah throughout the entire Pesach.

Adar II, 5782 43

FLASHBACK

The Rebbe addresses how all Jewish people are charged with the mission of reaching out to fellow Jews and bringing them closer to Judaism and ultimately G-d will see it through.

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FLASHBACK

Adar II, 5782 45

FLASHBACK

“See to it that all of your friends also light Shabbos candles.”

Shoshana Cardin, a philanthropist and leader of Jewish organizations meets the Rebbe.

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FLASHBACK

“What is your name?”

“Yossi.” “Are you going to ask the Four Questions on Pesach?”

The president and board members of the UJA-Federation share their accomplishments, to which the Rebbe responds, “And you expect me to be satisfied with a quarter of a million dollars…?”

Adar II, 5782 47

DANGEROUS The Rebbetzin's Life as the YEARS Clouds

By Dovid Zaklikowski

Darkened in Europe

In honor of the birthday of Rebbetzin Chaya Mushka Schneerson OBM on the 25th of Adar, we present an excerpt from an upcoming publication on her life spearheaded by R' Mendel Notik, who dedicatedly served the Rebbetzin for many years.

The Rebbe Rayatz worried deeply about his daughter and son-in-law, Rebbetzin Chaya Mushka Schneerson and the Rebbe, when Germany became increasingly precarious before the Second World War.

science, philosophy and moral authority but practiced the exact opposite. It would be the impetus for the Rebbe's efforts to educate all people that Hashem is, indeed, present and watching every action.

"I am not going to conceal that, after everything," he wrote in the fall of 1929, "I constantly think about you roaming the city, and if you are taking extra precaution?"

It was not that Hitler forced everyone around him to fulfill his wishes, the Rebbe recalled.

"As everyone saw, including myself, they (citizens) were enthusiastic when they greeted him. They hoped that he would fulfill their hearts' desires and see that Germany is above all."

During this time, the young couple witnessed the rise of Hitler, during which the depraved German dictator led a nation from intellectualism to barbarism. The Rebbe later spoke about Hitler's ability to banish G-d from German consciousness and where human life lost value. Decades later, the Rebbe spoke of a nation that prided itself on

48 COLlive Magazine

On January 30, 1933, the fears of Jews in Germany was realized when Hitler became the country's chancellor. "I hope that you are keeping your promise to refrain from taking unnecessary walks," the Rebbe Rayatz wrote to the Rebbe, then known as the Ramash (Hebrew

HISTORY

acronym of his name).

After reading the news reports threatening attacks on German Jews, the Rebbetzin wrote a frightened letter to her father. The Rebbe Rayatz did not want her to alarm the entire family and attempted to calm her fears by saying that not everything published in a newspaper comes to fruition.

The Ramash, seeing his wife's distress, packed up their bags and traveled to Paris to scout the situation there. Two weeks later, the Rebbetzin joined her husband. "I hope that this letter will reach you a few hours before you go to greet the good and pleasant 'guest,' your wife, my dear daughter," the Rebbe Rayatz wrote, ending with the hope that they should find a proper apartment.

Yisroel Aryeh Leib "Leibel" Schneerson, brother of the Ramash, moved with them to Paris. At one point, Leibel decided to continue to to the Holy Land of Israel and was in need of documents from the German government.

By then, Germany was in chaos. Books authored by Jews were burned in the streets, and antisemitism was rising. The Ramash offered to make the daring trip to assist his brother, but the Rebbetzin – concerned her husband would be targeted since he was visibly Jewish – volunteered instead.

listed, it seemed, was named Schneersohn/Schneerson – her father, her mother, and her husband. Nonetheless, they let her cross into Germany, and she was able to acquire the documents for Leibel before safely returning to Paris.

The Simple Life The Ramash and the Rebbetzin found a small, unfurnished apartment that suited their basic needs and income (provided by the Rebbe Rayatz).

When a local Lubavitcher businessman saw their meager accommodations, he decided to rent and furnish a large apartment for their use. When he told the Rebbetzin about it, she said she would discuss the matter with her husband.

The Ramash, however, turned down the offer, preferring to live modestly within their means.

Refusing the large apartment was in line with the Rebbetzin's disregard for pomp. She had also left behind many of their wedding presents in Riga and Poland. "I always thought that tablecloths, towels and napkins are an extra burden

with no purpose," she wrote to her in-laws.

With little room for their personal items, and surely not their seforim, they lived out of boxes and suitcases. Making the best of the situation, the Rebbetzin would later say that she tried organizing their possessions in an aesthetically pleasing way so that it wouldn't look like they were always on the move.

In Paris, the Ramash didn't publicize that he was the sonin-law of the 6th Lubavitcher Rebbe. On the contrary, he begged those who knew not to tell others that he lived in the city. When they first arrived, the Ramash once received an aliya to the Torah at a local shul. As is customary, he pledged a donation to charity and when he brought the money and relayed his name, he was asked if he was related to the Lubavitcher Rebbe.

"Moussia is his daughter," he responded simply.

The Ramash took on increasing responsibility in the work of the Rebbe Rayatz. In the winter of 1933, the Rebbe Rayatz wrote to his daughter that the Ramash's organizational

To cross the border, she filled out a detailed form that raised the suspicion of German officials. Everyone

Adar II, 5782 49

HISTORY

capabilities developed profoundly. "He takes care of everything. His attention to detail is nothing new to me, but it is to an extent I was not expecting, not only as a son-in-law but even for a daughter."

While the Rebbe Rayatz was nominally supporting him, the Ramash was encouraged to accept a rabbinical position when it came to further employment. But he refused.

To work in other areas would require work permits and that was difficult to obtain.

In the fall of 1939, the Ramash wrote to his father of his attempts to find a job or partnership. "Some of my efforts turned out to be just that, a dream," he wrote.

Nonetheless, he continued to pursue work even though it had been a challenging financial year for everyone.

"One needs to think that whatever elapsed until now was for the good, but in the future it will be better, and even much better, because there is no limit on increasing goodness," he penned. The Rebbetzin mostly took care of the home and performed seamstress work on the side to supplement their income.

The couple made plans to remain in Paris, seemingly for a long time. However, they were having difficulties obtaining documents, a fact which weighed heavily on the Rebbetzin. "Life is very hard without being settled," she wrote to her in-laws back in

50 COLlive Magazine

the Soviet Union.

At some point, the Rebbetzin was eager to move into a larger apartment, but in a letter to her in-laws, she described, "It is difficult to decide, because in the meantime there is no work, and it does not look like there will be one soon. In this situation, it does not make sense to take upon high expenditures."

The couple ultimately decided on a small tworoom apartment that they could afford. While there are always pros and cons to be discovered, she wrote, what convinced her to rent the apartment was the sunlight shining through the windows.

"I surmise, my dear in-laws, that you are laughing at me for worrying so much about such a small matter!"

Milk and Bread Living in Paris, there were few kosher options for the couple. The Rebbetzin would make food from scratch. To obtain dairy, she would travel with a bucket to a farm in the suburbs and oversee the milking of the cows.

When it came to purchasing poultry at the butcher, they first went together to observe the koshering of the chickens.

When the Rebbetzin affirmed that it was done correctly, the Ramash began to purchase there.

They purchased bread from a local bakery, but the

Ramash was once stopped by someone who inquired in surprise, "A religious person like you eats bread from here?" The couple stopped frequenting the bakery.

Decades later, the Rebbetzin would playfully say, "G-d helped us that there would also not be bread."

As it were, the person who derided the bakery had just opened a bakery of his own.

However, once there was doubt surrounding the matter, the Rebbetzen said that the Ramash would not return to that bakery.

When a local businessman came to their home when the Ramash was out, the Rebbetzin kept open one of the doors to the outside.

"Why are you doing that? It's cold outside!" the man asked.

She responded, "Have you forgotten that one should not be in seclusion [with a non-relative of the opposite gender]?"

In September 1939, bombs hit close to Lubavitch headquarters of the Lubavitch movement in Otwock, Poland.

It was the beginning of European Jewry's devastation.

It would take much effort, but finally on a spring morning in 1941, the Ramash and Rebbetzin disembarked the Serpa Pinto, marking the beginning of a new journey.

For the first time in their married lives, they would be living in the same city as the Rebbe Rayatz, becoming an integral part of the movement.

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‫ב“ה‬

‫‪AD‬‬ ‫אמר רבי חייא בר אבא‪ ,‬משמיה דעולא‪:‬‬

‫מיום שחרב בית המקדש‬ ‫אין לו להקדוש ברוך הוא בעולמו‪,‬‬ ‫אלא ארבע אמות של הלכה‬ ‫מסכת ברכות ח‪.‬‬

‫‪PARTNER WITH OUR FUTURE‬‬

‫!‪RABBANIM AND SHLUCHIM‬‬

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STILL CRAZY, COLORFUL, AND DYNAMIC From a hippie with dreadlocks to a Chabad Shliach of NYU

By Rivkah Katz Twenty-four years at Chabad of the Bowery in New York and going strong, Rabbi Dov Yonah Korn leads a legendary Chabad center. "It's not always easy; in fact, sometimes it's a lot," acknowledges Rabbi Korn, "but it is the only worthwhile life." And after standing on both sides of the fence, Rabbi Korn, formerly known as David Brandon or Dave, would be one to truly understand.

Growing up in Morris Plains, New Jersey, with his parents, young David Brandon Korn didn't have any personal connection to Judaism. "I knew I was Jewish, and we were part of the Reform community, but Judaism didn't mean much to me,"he recalls.

Steeped in a secular culture where life was focused on succeeding in college,

54 COLlive Magazine

building a career and making money, none of this felt compelling to Dave. At age fifteen, a gutsy teen indeed, Dave dropped out of high school. "I asked my parents if they knew of a deeper truth than our daily grind, and they did not. So I told them that I wanted their blessings as I was leaving home in search of purpose and the truth. I figured I'd study religions and meet different groups to direct me in finding the purpose of life."

From ashrams to monasteries to Hinduism, now sixteen years old, Dave tried almost everything - except for Judaism.

That changed when he found himself in his uncle's car parked right outside of the Yeshiva in Morristown on the night of Yud Tes Kislev.

Dave's uncle, a Lubavitcher, was driving Dave home after spending a night with his uncle's family. His uncle insisted on stopping at the Morristown Yeshiva to pick up a siddur for his daughter. While Dave's uncle encouraged him to step inside 24

AS THE FUTURE

THERE WE SIT

There we sit.

Faces radiant like the sun.

Enemies slain about.

Camaraderie and celebration the currency.

Realized dreams and hearts full of shared achievement.

Close call we say, but it wasn’t.

PROFILE

By Jack Downey, U.S. Office of War Information

moment in Dov Yonah's life.

"It was intense to feel so close to home. I was overwhelmed by the spirituality. I always had an open conversation with Hashem, but this was very far from how I envisioned my life.

I told Hashem that if this is what He wants from me, make it clear to me."

the yeshiva and take a look, Dave insisted on staying in the car. "I was so sure that Judaism had nothing to offer me. But then, as I was sitting in the car, I figured that after doing so many crazy things, I might as well check out what was going on in there. After all my experiences, and because I am Jewish, I felt that a quick peek was worth the shot; I had nothing to lose."

Taking a look at the yeshiva was undeniably his most successful shot because Dave, now Dov Yonah, never looked back. "There was a roaring farbrengen," describes Rabbi Korn excitedly.

The yeshiva was amid an enthralling farbrengen with Rabbi Fitzi Lipsker, Rabbi Yisroel Wichnin (both of blessed memory), Rabbi Yosef Yitzchak Greenberg, and Rabbi Avremel Lipskier. This "quick glimpse" turned into

an extended visit where Dov Yonah learned about Judaism, and particularly Chassidus. "I farbrung with the rabbis and student body for a full week," says Rabbi Korn, using the verb farbrung as an offshoot of the word farbrengen (an uplifting gathering of Chassidim).

Though Dov Yonah was searching for the truth in different crevices of the world, he never thought to explore his own religion.

"The Reform movement was very uninspiring. It's a shame. They took away everything uncomfortable about Judaism, but when you remove uncomfortability from anything in life, you also extract the goodness."

But on that Yud Tes Kislev night, in an act of Divine Providence, Hashem directed his steps to the yeshiva. It was a pivotal and transformative

Dave had a question to which no religion or faith he knew had an answer: "What is the purpose of life?" And finally he did find the answer - in Judaism. "Judaism explained why did Hashem make love, why did He make wine, real estate, and design. Why did Hashem make this world?

Chassidus answers that. It tells us how Hashem created this world so we should make a home for Him." After a week in the yeshiva, Dov Yonah left equipped with a siddur, Tanya, and his own pair of tefillin. From there, he went to California to further his learning and growth.

The straight-A, motivated student in Dov Yonah was on fire. Studying, he created a Chabad group in college and then took a gap-year "abroad" in Crown Heights. The once hippy with dreadlocks was now a hip bochur who took a permanent pause in his seven-year psychology track to become a Chabad shliach.

After meeting his wife Sarah, who had her own riveting journey to Chabad, Rabbi Korn was invited by Rabbi Yaakov Bankhalter to join him in spearheading Chabad in Greenwich Village.

Adar II, 5782 55

PROFILE

Today, Rabbi Korn is at the helm of the prominent Chabad of the Bowery, which is home to thousands of students of New York University (NYU) and serves as a haven of warmth, light, and Judaism. With his feisty personality, Rabbi Korn imbues his work with his spicy touch of humor, dynamite, and a bit of atypical craze — after all, his bold spirit is what got him this far.

seriously rad, using his love for life and dynamic and vibrant personality to make Judaism his own and impact others.

"I don't ever ask 'how did I get here?' because I literally cherish each moment. There is no other life I would rather have."

The nature of the human psyche is for one's eyes to drift outward and look at the other's possessions or lifestyle — to covet what you don't have. For Rabbi Korn, he's been on both ends. Rabbi Korn doesn't take it for granted.

"I use my hip craziness for a higher purpose," shares Rabbi Korn. "Our Chabad House has won awards for its unique and undeniably hip architecture and design." It's not the typical runof-the-mill Chabad house look, but it is very typical Rabbi Korn.

Powered by the Rebbe's teachings, Rabbi Korn lives with the joy of being the Rebbe's Shliach, charged with the mission of revealing G-dliness in the world. "Just like industries are into decentralization, Chassidus does this from the get-go. By sending out Shluchim, the power is in the hands of each Shliach, and by extension, each Jew is responsible for teaching a friend." And, of course, at the Bowery, the Rabbi sprinkles his special touch using his culinary skills for cook-offs and his arts to create poetry.

Noticing the symbiosis between purpose and pain intensifying at the threshold of Moshiach, Rabbi Korn has authored a collection of poetry in his newly published book, "As the Future Emerges from Hiding." This collection gives voice to Rabbi Korn's personal experiences over the Covid-19 pandemic, and likely readers will find their struggles, salvations, and various interpretations which poetry generally lends itself to.

"The poems speak of my spirit.

The pieces are authentic and would probably resonate with artistically minded individuals," reflects Rabbi Korn. Reading through his poetry, one can feel the biting pinch of the struggle, but like Rabbi Korn's journey, joy, redemption, and salvation are the underlying current.

"It allowed me to see how people are really miserable in society. People who have everything essentially don't," he says. "I appreciate being here, knowing how empty life can be.

I work with Jews of all types and they are looking for meaning and Yiddishkeit. I am so lucky to be raising my kids with this purpose, value, and meaning."

Rabbi Korn says he knew he found the truth when he recognized the cherry on top: His purpose included his personality.

"My colorful and dynamic character was not rejected.

Chassidus has a place for me and my personality. It embraces me, which is incredible because I am crazy and colorful. Chassidus makes a lot of space for the human experience -- the kind, wild, and scholarly."

While serious about his Yiddishkeit, Rabbi Korn is also

56 COLlive Magazine

There's no doubt that every Jew needs a pair of rose-colored lenses like Rabbi Korn's. Along with the empowerment and joy, Judaism is a heavy load, Rabbi Korn acknowledges.

Nevertheless, he guarantees that this is where happiness is at. Relating to human struggles and intricacies, Rabbi Korn finds that setting his eye on the goal - preparing the world for the coming of Moshiach - is the antidote to combating the struggles. Even when the going gets rough, Rabbi Korn notes,

What is most remarkable about Rabbi Korn is his authenticity. He is genuinely content and every fiber of his being is filled with purpose. Though the outside world may appear colorful and enticing, Rabbi Korn is a living testament that the luring vanity of the outside world pales in the face of truth through his rollicking journey. And if you are crazy, colorful and dynamic, you won't be lost in Judaism— you will find your purpose.

"As the Future Emerges from Hiding," 28 pages, is available for purchase online.

‫ב׳׳ה‬

MATANOS L’EVYONIM

‫מתנות לאביונים‬ CHARITY STARTS AT HOME

AD ‫עניי עירך קודמין‬

This Purim help feed hundreds of families in OUR community!

Families, widows and orphans are relying on YOU! These are YOUR friends, relatives and neighbors!

DONATE AT:

WWW.CSSY.ORG/PURIM Zelle: office@cssy.org PayPal: www.PayPal.me/cssy Cashapp: $cssycashapp

$14,000 Feeds 100 families this Purim $5,040 Feeds 36 families this Purim $1,120 Feeds 8 families this Purim $700 Feeds 5 families this Purim $140 Feeds 1 family this Purim

• Money will distributed before and on Purim day • Funds distributed in a discreet and dignified manner ‫מתן בסתר‬ Dedicated in memory of the 15th Yahrzeit of Shimshon Hakohen Stock OBM Founder of CSSY Initiated by the Rebbe in 1977

Inspired by the Midwives

An organization began looking out for Hebrew-speaking new mothers in Crown Heights and expanded since

By Danit Schusterman "One month ago, I gave birth to my first child, a beautiful, healthy baby girl. My family lives overseas, and my husband's family lives out of town. We have wonderful friends and some family in Crown Heights, but I felt very alone and overwhelmed," says Sara F., a resident of Crown Heights.

"My sister organized for me to receive daily breakfast packages delivered to my home from Shifra and Pua, an organization I had never heard of before.

I was blown away by the incredible

58 COLlive Magazine

thoughtfulness involved in each daily package. Each dish was nutritious and healthy and so delicious. They even added snacks for nursing. Every detail was thought out. The women who delivered the breakfasts were so kind and warm. I felt so loved and cared for by people who didn't even know who I was. It was quite incredible."

Crown Heights is home to many families who live here without any close or supportive family. Feeling the need to help, N'shei Chabad for Hebrewspeaking Women in Crown Heights established its own Shifra and Puah in Crown Heights. It was inspired by an organization the Rebbe instructed to launch in the Kfar Chabad village in 5737. The organization's name was Shifra and Puah, the Hebrew midwives who risked their lives to save Jewish babies in ancient Egypt from King Pharaoh's decree.

Beautiful packages are provided for mothers who just gave birth with the Shifra and Puah Division at Bikur Cholim

CHESED of Crown Heights, headed by Mrs. Chana Pinson. These packages include healthy and nutritious breakfast, and cleaning services, babysitting services, and Shabbos meals as needed. There is also a hotline for a woman in distress.

Whatever service is required, Shifra and Pua are there to help.

"The joy that you see on these moms' faces when we deliver their breakfast is just amazing," says Brachie Friedman, a volunteer driver who delivers breakfasts weekly. "Even the fathers or the grandmothers who are there to help, they're all exhausted, and receiving this big beautiful box filled to the brim with the most delicious food is just incredible."

Shifra and Puah of Crown Heights is partly based on volunteering, and donors finance the rest. The fantastic volunteers prepare and pack nutritious meals, and the outstanding volunteer drivers deliver them with a smile and a warm Mazel Tov. Still, others arrange for the cleaning help and the teenage girl helpers.

"You not only provide a plentiful and tasty breakfast for mothers after a new child or children, but you also ensure that it is done in the most honorable manner," commented one grateful mother.

Another wrote: "There are no words to express how grateful I am for the most delicious breakfasts that have been delivered to my door these past two weeks. The food was in abundance (most days even enough for lunch and for the kids to enjoy) and presented beautifully.

The extra treats and cakes and breads and gifts are greatly appreciated and thoroughly enjoyed. I could not believe that even when the weather was terrible and it was snowing outside, my bell still rang with my breakfast! Thank you to

every one of you for making my recovery so much easier and providing my baby and me with such nourishment."

Over 500 mothers have been given two weeks of morning meals a year, and the goal is to increase that number. Many volunteers are needed. The Rebbe said that "when a child is born into a family, it is a sign of blessing in all matters."

Volunteers want to provide relief for mothers to feel the joy in that blessing.

"The more funds we have, the more services we can give," says Mrs. Shlomit Slapochnik of Shifra and Pua. "This year we opened support groups for young mothers and ladies who are going through fertility treatments as well. We would love to offer more babysitting hours, more cleaning help, help with lactation consultation, help with postpartum depression therapists. We have many more ideas."

Mrs. Michla Segal of Shifra and Puah added, "We would like to thank all our volunteers, all the donors, Bikur Cholim and Jr. N'shei, the organizations that help us, and of course, the Rebbe who entrusted us with this great privilege."

To volunteer at Shifra and Puah, call Shlomit at 917.753.1148 or Chani at 718.755.9870.

To donate, PayPal: shifraupuahny@gmail.com.

Adar II, 5782 59

How women are following their passions, building careers they love, and working as their own bosses

By Chava Witkes

In some professions, the path toward success is clear: go to school (or not), get a job, then work hard. But in the world of entrepreneurship, it's never that easy.

There is no salary, no boss, and no coworkers. So how do frum Jewish women manage to build businesses while juggling so much else on their plates? And what inspires women to look beyond the more traditional helping professions like teaching, nursing, or social work, which women often dominate?

Inspired by the recent surge in women's business networking spearheaded by the CHYE organization and Miriam's Motherhood Center, COLlive Magazine heard from two powerhouses for their take on all things career. Now, let's get down to business.

60 COLlive Magazine

BUSINESS

Esti Lowenbein The career change with a happy result Esti Lowenbein speaks at CHYE X Miriam's Motherhood Center

Meet the speech-therapist turned real-estate investor who's transacted over $45 billion worth of deals since she first started in the field five years ago. Esti Lowenbein is a mom boss who drives a 12-seater for her nine children and works out regularly. She's passionate about sharing her success with other women who are ready for something new.

Can you tell us about your journey from speech therapy to real estate?

It didn't happen exactly on purpose. When we moved to Pomona 4 years ago, it was harder for me to transfer my job as a speech therapist because everything works so differently outside of New York City. I also felt like it was time for a change. As a speech therapist, I worked with kids all day, and I wanted to conserve my energy for my own growing family.

What was the most challenging part about getting started in real estate?

In commercial real estate, you are expected to know everything right away. There are dozens of terms and

different jargon that needs to be mastered for anyone to take you seriously. I had to learn this all really quickly—I didn't start with much financial education.

So I took courses, read books, and listened to podcasts.

Until today I've never stopped learning.

What's most rewarding about your new career?

I love connecting with people, which is a huge part of the business. Real estate is all about making connections— connecting property with people and with funding. I also just love the hustle. It's a thrill for me. A big part of why I switched careers is that I was looking for something more. I needed more fulfillment, more challenge, more stimulation.

You've transacted over 45 million dollars worth of deals. With that kind of success, how have the struggles changed?

Real estate can be an emotional rollercoaster. Things don't always work out. I could be working on a deal for months, and then it all falls through in minutes. The work environment is very intense. Not everyone

is honest or fair, and people can be brutal. I've had to develop a thick skin quickly and not let all the inevitable disappointments get to me. I can't imagine having done this earlier in life—I didn't have the emotional capacity for it! I've since become stronger from the ups and downs.

Do you ever miss speech therapy?

Not at all! I enjoyed my time, but as an extrovert, real estate is the perfect job for me.

How are you motivated without a boss or anyone in charge of you?

I'm naturally very goal-oriented, so working for myself is an excellent option for me. I like to achieve, and I have an innate desire to keep going.

Sometimes when projects don't move, it's harder. It's easy to get discouraged in this business. I try to focus on the positive and the opportunities.

It's a lot of mindset work.

Do you even encounter other women?

Very few. And even less frum ones—literally less than a handful. Thank G-d, I have my

Adar II, 5782 61

BUSINESS

CHYE x Miriam's Motherhood Center A new monthly event series was launched by Crown Heights Young Entrepreneurs (CHYE), sponsor of the new freelance workspace in the beautifully appointed Miriam's Motherhood Center. CHYE was founded in 2012 to "empower people in our community to launch meaningful careers," explains its director Rabbi Yehoshua Werde. CHYE supports entrepreneurship in Crown Heights by creating mentorship networks, facilitating business opportunities, and fostering professional development.

With the launch of a new freelance working space for women, CHYE is going to new lengths to support female entrepreneurship. "When women are empowered with the right resources, there's no stopping what they can accomplish," Werde says.

Do yoyuouwransttotory ? share mire?

Nominateonagofringiendseryoieus,adwe'l be In t his g women fo lowing t heir featurin ms in business. drea at Get in touch om editor@col ive.c .

62 COLlive Magazine

husband, he's like my in-house psychologist, and he helps me get through situations.

What's the travel schedule like?

At one point, I was going on trips every two weeks, all across the U.S. But now, it's been two months since I've traveled anywhere. Whenever I travel, it's in and out. I've been to more cities than I can count in the last year. I try to involve my kids as much as possible. If I'm going on a business trip, I give them as many details before I leave and after I get back.

How do you balance work with family?

The trick is that I try to give my all wherever I am. That means when I'm with my kids, I give them my all. When I'm working, I give it my all. I make up for less time with my kids by being completely present giving a lot of attention, whenever I am with them. My husband and I both have this mindset and try to shower our children with love and positivity.

(And Boruch Hashem, they are terrific kids!)

Still, I had to shift priorities. I used to host a lot more, but now Shabbos is my time to devote to my kids. Some weeks I'm traveling, and some days I'm working through the night, but at least my kids know that the weekend I'm theirs.

Once, when the Chanukah vacation of the kids coincided with a prominent real estate show, I ended up having to miss the show. But most of the time, it helps that I can make my schedule. I can be flexible.

Also, my husband and I both work hard, so we both recognize the importance of each other's businesses. When one of us

needs to work more, the other one kicks in. We understand each other. I share a lot with my husband about what's going on at work. He respects everything I'm doing. We also have a lot of help, such as a live-in housekeeper and a driver for carpools.

How was the transition from Crown Heights to Pomona?

I loved Crown Heights and would have loved to stay there if we could have found the right house (with a driveway!). When we were looking 5 or 6 years ago, people weren't moving too far out, and there were no houses available on the market. I didn't love Pomona right away, and I think that's what helped lead me to real estate.

Right now, I'm extremely focused on my family and my career, and so I've been socializing a lot less lately.

What does someone need to succeed?

First of all, you have to be ready to work a ton of hours without seeing a penny. I worked on so many deals that went nowhere.

As a broker, investor, and capital raiser, there will always be deals that don't go through.

It's commission-based work. So you're not getting paid for your time. You have to love it. If you don't love it, it's easy to get burnt out. As much as we can focus on the success, it's not all unicorns and rainbows. Behind the scenes, there are hours and hours of work before any money is made. It's a tough business.

What message do you want to give other women?

It's never too late to switch careers. And remember, if you do something you enjoy, it's a lot easier to balance motherhood and business!

BUSINESS

Rochie Sufrin From little beginnings, a Crown Heights staple The Little Toes shop on Kingston Avenue

Meet a mom who's climbed to retail success with hard work, years of dedication, and sheer willpower. Rochie Sufrin is the founder and owner of Little Toes clothing store in Crown Heights, who built up her business while her kids were still in diapers. Find out how she managed—and manages— to live her passion.

Let's start at the very beginning. Tell me about your first job.

When I was 18, seminaries in Israel were hard to get into. But still, the conventional wisdom at that time said that "girls go to seminary after high school."

My parents wanted me to go.

I wasn't thrilled about it since I was never the best student.

I followed the protocol, but I also asked my parents if I could work half a day. They agreed.

So how did you find a job?

That was the problem! I was 18 and fresh out of high school.

Where was I supposed to find a job? My father owned grocery stores —should I work at Kahan's? That's when I bumped into a neighbor who

heard I was looking for a job.

"I have to tell you the funniest thing," she said and went on to tell me about a place where her brothers went on Mivtzoim every Friday. The person who had offices on Atlantic and Flatbush asked the bochurim if they knew anyone looking for a job. I was one of 20 Lubavitch girls who ended up working in that office.

What exactly did you do?

I worked for a bank during the early 90s when mortgage rates were low, and everyone was trying to get a mortgage. I was the secretary for the Senior Vice President. My supervisor sent me to training and helped me build my skills. I went from filing paperwork to doing more intense tasks with mortgages. I worked there for almost a year until mortgage rates started going up.

What happened then?

Well, we all got laid off! I was sad to go. What a learning experience! A few days later, though, I got another mortgage job, working for a Lubavitcher in Boro Park. I worked there right up until I

had my first child at 21.

Looking back, what did you learn from your first work experiences?

I learned from my first jobs that I have to love what I'm doing. Being a boss, I see how important it is to be friendly to workers every day. My bosses taught me well. They created a nice atmosphere in the office, and I try to make that warm feeling now for my workers.

How did your personality affect your career choice?

I planned to marry a rich guy and live the life of my dreams.

Seriously! My mom was always a stay-at-home mom and my dad always provided. Growing up, I was not a go-getter, and I wasn't keen on working. Sure, work was fun, and it was nice to get a paycheck, but I was never motivated by dollar signs.

What made you start working again?

Whenever we had a Simcha go to, I would go all out to dress my two little boys at the time. I wanted them to look good and never wanted to settle for just

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BUSINESS plain socks. Crown Heights didn't offer many options, so I used to shlep to Boro Park for the kids' hosiery stores. It was never about wearing designer clothing. It just had to be nice. I realized that Crown Heights needed its own kids' hosiery store.

How did you start?

Remember that friend who got me my first job? Ironically, that same friend helped me get started in the business.

She had since moved to Chicago, ran a similar business there, and helped me get in touch with vendors. I looked through catalogs for the first season and ordered way more inventory than we needed.

I started in the back of Kahan's using the Pesach store with the entrance on Union Street.

It was a tiny space, maybe a quarter of an aisle. It was hard.

Looking back, I can't believe how I did that. I would shlep my kids every week and had to be there Sundays.

How did you get the word out about your new store?

I was new, and it was all word of mouth back then. There was no internet, no social media.

How to get noticed? It was only through flyers back then, which were very expensive and not too effective. Eventually, more people heard about me.

I was so new that I didn't even have a sign! I used my savings to get started, and I counted every penny. I was lucky to work out of Kahan's and not have to pay rent for my own

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space. It was an enormous saving.

What made you decide to move to your own space?

I was nine months pregnant with another baby at the time, and I decided that if I didn't get on the Avenue now, I would never make it.

Customers would come with

who's getting married?!" It's so exciting. Back when I was 20, I knew I never wanted to be a saleswoman for mortgages. But here, I'm not selling anything. The products sell themselves. My role is just to help my customers find what they need. This fits my personality much better. I am a people person.

Thank G-d, my customers understood the ups and downs. Most of them are mothers. We all go through the same things.

a double stroller, and I would wait downstairs while they went upstairs to shop. Plus, not enough people know about us because we were tucked away. So I moved onto Kingston, to a tiny space next to Kol Tuv. I got my first sign with a logo that my cousin made me. Little Toes finally became official! With time, I grew out of that tiny space and moved to the spot where we are today.

What do you like most about your line of work?

Hands down, the people! I've always loved helping people.

When someone comes in to choose socks, it's like, "Oooh,

When I first started, I was worried about customers' reactions. "What if they don't want to buy this? What if the price is too high?" Now, I've gained confidence. Yes, there will always, unfortunately, be customers who are not polite and can make mean comments. But most of my customers are amazing.

How was juggling little kids while building a business?

That was hard. My husband worked crazy hours. I was like a single mom doing everything from A to Z at home, plus working on top of that. There were a lot of

BUSINESS

logistical challenges: How do I get through Friday and make Shabbos and get through Sundays? I would feed the baby, bring her to a babysitter down the street, then rush back to the store so I could go back in two hours to feed him again. I always prayed that the worker would show up on time so I wouldn't be late for my hungry baby.

If I brought my car to the store, it was even worse.

I would double park, and there would be a customer waiting, and I had to move my car to double park it across the street. It was insane.

Thank G-d, my customers understood the ups and downs. Most of them are mothers. We all go through the same things. My kids used to come to my store all the time. If school finished early, they would come to the store and hang out with me.

It took time until I could get someone to work for me in the afternoons. I realized it's good to be home for my kids.

And, of course, my kids always had the nicest socks and headbands.

If someone is looking to start a business, what are some things they need?

There is so much out there now. I look at the world today, and I'm jealous. I had to figure out every tiny thing on my own. How do I know if I'm doing this right? Are my taxes okay? One of my vendors was audited, and they wanted my

EIN number, and I was like, "Um, what's that?" Now there are so many resources. CHYE. The internet. You don't even have to look hard. It's right at your fingertips! There are also many more women out there going into business or out in the field.

How did you adopt new technology playing such a significant role in business?

I thought it would get easier, but honestly, it only got harder! Now I have two jobs, managing the store and the online shop. I actually hate computers. Learning my POS (point-of-sale) system was a real struggle. I have made a lot of changes since I started. But still, taking on anything new, especially with technology, is a lot for me.

What kind of advice do you have for other working moms?

Have friends. Take care of yourself. Live a little bit. Get a massage. Do whatever you need to make it work. And get support - from friends, family, or colleagues. Moms have so much mental load. Even with everything going on, supper still has to be ready at the end of the day. When both parents work, it's the moms who always end up doing more, even if today's husbands pitch in.

Was there ever a time you wanted to quit?

Do you know how many times I wanted to quit? When I

moved to my new store, it was in the middle of the season, and there was only $72 in my Little Toes bank account. We had to close for two weeks. I was terrified. Thank G-d, we did really well in the opening weeks of the new location.

But every time I wanted to give up, I knew that if this was something that I passionately wanted, something that I really believed in, then I HAD to keep at it.

What keeps you motivated so many years later?

When my boys were little, I bought these two-piece velvet outfits for a wedding on sale at Tuesday's Child, a boutique in Brooklyn. They were so gorgeous. My boys wore those to shul every Shabbos for an entire year. Yes, maybe they looked like they were dressed for a wedding, but so what?

It's Shabbos! When I see girls wearing leggings and socks on Shabbos, I cringe. Shabbos is a day of beauty, and we have to honor it. It's not a day to dress sporty or casual.

At the end of my day, I just love dressing kids. I feel like moms need to love what they buy. When someone comes in and wants a basic pair of tights to go with a gorgeous dress, I'm like, "No, you need beautiful tights!" I show my customers how to dress their kids beautifully without spending a lot. And doing that will always keep me inspired.

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Chabad 2022 Summer Camp Directory Camp Emunah Gender: Girls Location: Greenfield Park, New York Amenities: 3 outdoor pools and two water slides. 3 tennis courts, 2 volleyball courts, 2 basketball courts, a hockey court and gaga pits. 3 playgrounds, 2 trampolines, a 300 ft. zip line and a rock-climbing wall.

Ages: Junior program 3-5th grade, Preteen program 6-7th grade, Teen Camp 8-9th grade, 10th-grade Traveling Shluchos program, Sunshine Circle for girls with special needs Session: 1 month Website: www.campemunah.com Director Rebbetzin Chave Hecht, Mrs Baila Rochel Kievman /Teen Camp Director: Tzivie Hecht Contact:

Mrs.

718-735-0225 / info@campemunah.com

Camp Chomeish Gender: Girls Location: Moodus, Connecticut Amenities: Learning, Davening, trips. Theme days (Six Flags, Bowling, Cromwell Fun House, Lake Compounce Amusement Park, Berry Picking, Ice & Roller Skating), night activity, boating, campfires, drama and music, activities, poetry, ceramic crafts, archery, arts and crafts, swimming, Concerts, Shows, Carnival, Melava Malka, Color War, Field Day, Plays, Weekly Theme Days, Mock Wedding, Overnights.

Ages: 4-7th grade Session: 1 month Website: www.campchomeish.com Director: Rabbi Sholom Ber Stock Contact: (203)­ 816-0770 director@campchomeish.com, staff@campchomeish.com, info@campchomeish.com

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Summer Camp Directory Camp Pardes Chana Gender: Girls Location: Montreal Quebec, Canada / Kingston NY Amenities: Swimming, baking, sports, arts & crafts, rope course, kayaking, special theme activities and more.

Ages: Regular program 4-6th grade, VIP program 7th grade, CIT program 8th grade, Waitress program 9th grade Session: Website: Director: Contact:

1 month www.camppc.com Rabbi Avrohom & Dinie Gurary admin@camppc.com 514-600-1631

Camp Gan Yisroel United Gender: Girls Location: Bushkill, Pennsylvania Amenities: Learning, Davening, Farbrengens. Activities, theme days, electives, crafts, trips. Outdoor and indoor pool, multiple sports courts and fields, playgrounds.

Winterized cabins.

Ages: CGI Girls grades 4-7, Teen Division grades 8-9, Waitresses grade 10 Session: Website: Directors: Teen Division: Contact:

1 month www.cgiunited.org Malka Aisenbach, Geula Gniwisch Chanie Kantor 971-770-1836 / info@cgiunited.org

Camp Gan Yisroel - Detroit Gender: Separate camps for boys and girls Location: girls in Kalkaska, Michigan and boys in Tustin, Michigan Amenities: For 61 years, Camp Gan Yisroel in Lubavitch City, Michigan has been providing boys and girls with a truly magical summer experience as they spend their days surrounded by good friends and dedicated staff members, inspiring them to grow in their Yiddishkeit and Chassidishkeit. From the exciting daily activities to the incredibly warm environment, Camp Gan Yisroel offers personal attention to each and every camper, with multiple programs geared to different age groups, providing an uplifting summer laden with fun, excitement and an opportunity for personal growth.

Ages: Boys BMD Program, Girls 10th-grade travel camp, Girls Teen camp Session: 2 months girls and 2 months boys Website: www.cgidetroit.com Director: Rabbi Moshe Shemtov Contact: registration@cgidetroit.com 248-599-2703

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Camp Gan Israel Florida - Boys Gender: Boys age 8-12 Location: Groveland, FL - 2 sessions Amenities: Outdoor Adventure, Aquatics, Athletics, Grand Trips, Basketball, Touch Football, Soccer, Volleyball, Street Hockey, Baseball, Beach Volleyball, Lacrosse, Ga Ga and Handball. Free swim, water aerobics and boating.

Trips to Orlando’s world-famous theme parks, as well as other local trips.

Director: Executive email:

Rabbi Yossi Goldblatt Director: Rabbi Yossi Biston director@cgiflorida.com

Special 6th grade program

Camp Gan Israel Florida - Girls Gender: Girls grade 2-7 Location: Lake Worth, FL - 2 Sessions Amenities: Outdoor Adventure, Aquatics, Athletics, Grand Trips, Basketball, Touch Football, Soccer, Volleyball, Street Hockey, Baseball, Beach Volleyball, Lacrosse, Ga Ga and Handball. Free swim, water aerobics and boating.

Trips to Orlando’s world-famous theme parks, as well as other local trips.

Director: Mrs. Shira Wajsbort Exe. Director: Rabbi Yossi Biston email: girls@cgiflorida.com

Camp Gan Yisrael in the Poconos Gender: girls Location: Dingmans Ferry, PA Amenities: CGI Poconos’ activities provide our campers with a balance of aquatics, arts, athletics, and adventure. In addition, we also offer specialized activities that are designed to help our campers’ develop their abilities and skills (ex. self-defense, hand sewing, laundry, fashion design, team building, Challah baking, cooking, and much more.)

Ages: PreB Me (3-5th grades) B-Me (Batmitzvah Experience) Teen Experience (8-9th grade) Session: Website: Director: Contact:

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1 month www.cgipoconos.org Gershon Sandler 845.425.0903 GSandler@CGIPoconos.org

Summer Camp Directory Camp Gan Israel Toronto Gender: Boys and girls Location: Haliburton, Ontario Amenities: Hiking, Overnight Camping, Wilderness Skills, Nature Courses, Free Swim, Canoeing, Kayaking, Rowing, 16-foot lake water slide, Trampoline, Basketball, Touch Football, Soccer, Volleyball, Ultimate Frisbee, Handball, Aerobics, Painting, Drama, Dance (girls), Music, Arts & Crafts, Baking Ages: Grades 4-7, Boys grade 7 BMD Program Session: 1 month Website: www.ganisrael.camp Director: Goldy Grossbaum Contact: 905-731-7000 ext. 222, 225, or 235 | director@GanIsraelToronto.com

Camp Gan Israel Parksville, NY Gender: Location: Amenities: Ages: Session: Website: Director: Contact:

boys Parksville, NY Activities, sports, trips, swimming Barmitzvah Division 1 month www.campganisrael.com Rabbi Yossi Futerfas 845-292-9307 cginewyork@gmail.com

Camp Chayolei Hamelech Gender: Boys Location: Lackawaxen PA Amenities: Camp Chayolei balances structure and creativity, competition and teamwork, organized specialties and optional activities, within a safe, nurturing, frum Jewish environment. The rich and varied programs offer campers of different strengths the opportunity to grow, learn, develop, and make new friends as they connect to their Jewish heritage. All of this happens in our beautiful facility of over eighty-four acres in Lackawaxen PA. Ages: Session: Website: Director: Contact:

Gan 3-6th grade, SGP 7th grade, EGP 8th grade 1 month www.chayol.com Shloime Rutman 718-221-0770

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Yeshivas Kayitz Tzeirei Hashluchim Tzfas Gender: Boys Location: Tzfas, Israel Amenities: Under the leadership of Rabbi Chaim Kaplan of Chabad-Lubavitch of Tzfas, and directed by Eli Rosenfeld, the Yeshivas Kayitz is based out of the beautiful and newly renovated campus of Yeshivas Beis Menachem Mendel in Tzfas. The goal of the program is to enhance every Talmid’s level of learning, davening and chassidishe hanhogah, all while enjoying the experience of a lifetime. Designed for bochurim entering grades 9 through 11, the six-week program offers a strong academic curriculum with personalized level-based learning, and is complemented with numerous on-site and off-site activities, professional sports leagues, Shabbatons, and exciting excursions throughout all of Eretz Yisroel.

Ages: Session: Website: Director: Contact:

Entering grades 9 - 11 6 weeks yktzeireihashluchim.com Eli Rosenfeld 917.409.7430 | info@yktzeireihashluchim.com

Machane Pioneers Gender: boys Location: Vermont Amenities: Pioneers Camp provides a unique, action-packed camp experience where your son will acquire life skills. We are geared to help campers gain a sense of responsibility, leadership skills and most importantly simchat chaim -- a joy of life itself! Surrounded by a new environment and interaction with great teachers, each boy will develop confidence and glean skills to be used the rest of his life.

Most importantly, campers will have a fun-filled summer! Experiential Educational camping designed to build skill sets which will grow with your son’s development.​ Pioneers Camp is located in the green mountains of Vermont. With 100+ acres of forestland, meadows, mountain brooks, and a waterfall on the property, it offers a beautiful and refreshing environment in which to learn the many skills and knowledge that's taught at Pioneers Camp.

Ages: Junior Pioneers Ages: 10-12, Pioneers Ages:

13-14, Maglan Ages: 15-16

Session: Website: Director: Contact:

1 month www.pioneerscamp.org Michoel Nagel 973.349.2282 MachanePioneers@gmail.com

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Summer Camp Directory Tzeirei Hatmimim Gender: Boys Location: Canadensis, PA Amenities: Learning with qualified teachers, Swimming, baking, sports, arts & crafts, activities, tons of trips Ages: Session: Website: Directors: Contact:

10-14 5th-8th grade Second month tzeireihatmimim.com Rabbi Yosef Klyne and Rabbi Yitzchok Wolf 347-423-1676

Chavaya Vermont Wilderness Program Gender: Girls Location: Vermont Amenities: Chavaya is a place for young Jewish women to actualize their true potential through experiencing nature and being creative. We offer a unique outdoor experience that represents a new model of Jewish education. You can expect your daughter to learn about nature and survival skills, create beautiful art and have fun! Activities include survival skills, swimming, animal husbandry, farming, art, horse riding, exciting trips and more.

Ages: Session: Website: Director: Contact:

Ages 9 - 14 1 month www.ChavayaVermont.com Batsheva Nagel ChavayaVermont@gmail.com

Yeshivas Kayitz Program Gender: boys Location: Lakewood, PA Amenities: Our unique program is geared to see every Talmid as an individual. Led by Mechanchim whose goal is to give each child their full attention, and with a comprehensive program of academics and adventure. Yeshivas Kayitz Program is a summer experience of active living, learning and growing in yiddishkeit, chassidishkeit, and maturity.

Ages: Session: Website: Director: Contact:

8th grade-Beis Medrash 8 weeks www.ykprogram.com Rabbi Yisroel Levertov (570)­300-5190

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Maui Kosher Farm Camp Gender: boys program and girls program Location: Maui, Hawaii Amenities: Every morning begins with feeding the goats, sheep, chickens, ducks, geese and quails. The typical activities include collecting eggs, milking goats, planting pineapples, harvesting avocados, papayas, bananas & anything else growing on property, clearing cane grass and our streams. The bochurim will learn the practical ‫ תוכלה‬of living on a farm, get to watch and learn the intricacies of ‫ הטיחש‬and ‫ תורשכ‬from farm to table, and much more. Maui has 9 microclimates, giving us access to 10,000-foot volcanoes, moon-like crater hikes, lava rock trails, waterfall crossings and bamboo forests. Living on the farm lends itself to much opportunities for creativity. We do lots of painting (rocks, pallets, cabins, ourselves), dying, weaving, building, art lessons and the like or food creation such as making our own coffee, cocoa, sourdough bread or noni juice from farm to table.

Ages: Boys ages 13 - 15, girls ages 11-13 Session: Website: Director: Contact:

3 weeks www.mkfsummer.com Mendel and Chani Zirkind (917) 803-2835

YSP - Yeshiva Summer Program Morristown Gender: boys Location: Morristown, NJ Located on the beautiful, well-maintained grounds of the Rabbinical College of America, Yeshiva Summer Program YSP is known the world over for its great ability to ease the transition from Elementary to Mesivta. Primarily a learning program, it seeks to serve those scholars desiring to spend their summer in intense Torah study, coupled with recreational activities. The perfect balance, this program places great emphasis on the spiritual service of G-d, spending over eight hours per day in study and prayer, regular tests, as well as incentives and performancedriven goals.

Ages: Session: Website: Director: Contact:

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13 and 14 6 weeks www.yspmorristown.com Rabbi Mendel Goldberg (973) 267-9404 Ext. 111

Summer Camp Directory Camp Lechatchila Ariber Gender: girls Location: Utah and Arizona Amenities: An overnight-travel hybrid program for girls who love the outdoors and nature and who are adventurous in both mindset and reality. The program will see trips such as hiking, rappelling, canyoneering, zip-lining, white water rafting and glamping, as well as specialty classes to learn unique skills like pottery, cooking, dancing and art.

Ages: Session: Director: Website:

Girls completing 6th, 7th, and 8th grades 3 weeks Rabbi Dovber & Srula Chaiton www.camplagirls.com

CGI Cabo Gender: Location: Amenities: Ages: Session: Website: Director: Contact:

girls Los Cabos, Mexico TBA Girls going into grades 9 and 10 3 weeks www.marecabo.com Rabbi Benzion and Sonia Hershcovich +52-624-133-0489

Gan Israel Teen Camp Experience Gender: Location:

Ages: Session: Email: Directors:

Girls to be determined 40 girls Max Incoming 9th 10th and 11th 3 weeks- August 3rd- 24th ganisraelteencampexperience@gmail.com Rabbi Mendy and Tzippy Weiss

CGI Montreal Gender: Location: Ages: Session: Website: Director: Contact:

Boys La Minerve, Quebec, Canada Boys grades 3-6 / Section C (boys completed Grade 7) 4 weeks www.cgimontreal.com Rabbi Yisrolik Mockin 514.343.9606

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Yeshiva Outdoor Adventure Gender: boys Location Taos, NM and Colorado Amenities: Leading the way in wilderness education, changing lives, one summer at a time. Yeshiva Outdoor Adventure is a registered Venturing Crew under The Boy Scouts of America, requiring its staff to be well trained in many areas. It is a camp that brings learning and the outdoors to a whole new level. With a brilliant combination of camping and farbrengen, self-reliance and teamwork we empower our teens with independence and an appreciation for everything around them.

Ages: Session: Website: Director: Contact:

Boys aged 15-16 4 weeks www.campyoa.com Rabbi Michoel Harari campyoa@hotmail.com or 1-818-237-6146

Camp YTT Gender: girls Location: Israel and Ukraine Amenities: The touring camp directed by Mrs. Miryam Swerdlov for over 20 years, the camp boasts an inspiring, fun and Chassidish atmosphere touring the entire Israel, along with state-of-the-art accommodations and transportation. The Ukraine trip visits Dnepropetrovsk, (the Rebbe’s city) where they visit the new Menorah Center, Reb Leivik’s Shul, Reb Beryl’s kever and many more incredible sights, Haditch, (Alter Rebbe), Nyezhin (Mitteler Rebbe), an incredible Shabbos in Mezibush (Baal Shem Tov), Barditchev, (Reb Levi Yitzchok) The Maggid and Reb Zushe in Annipoli.

Ages: Session: Website: Director: Contact:

10-11th grade 5 weeks www.campytt.com Mrs. Miriam Swerdlov admin@campytt.com

Yeshivas Kayitz Postville Gender: Location: Amenities: Session: Website: Contact info:

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boys Postville, Iowa Yeshiva style with small trips and sports 6 weeks www.mesivtapostville.org/ykinfo.html mesivtapostville@gmail.com

Summer Camp Directory Machaneh Mamosh Gan Yisroel West California Gender:

Boys and Girls

Amenities: Machaneh Mamosh has hosted camp since 1995. Thousands of children have enjoyed the Gan Yisroel experience in the beautiful California mountains. Located on 92 acres outside Yosemite National Park, our camp features amazing activities including: Kayaking, Mishnayos baal peh, Athletics, Swimming, Drama, Horseback riding, Archery, Exciting trips. Where every day is a sunny day and every day is a Gan Yisroel day.

Girls ages Boys ages

8-13 June 28 - July 25 8-13 July 27 - August 23

Website:

www.Ganyisroelwest.com

Directors: Contact:

Rabbi and Mrs. Shlomo Menkes 310-910-1770

Yeshivas Kayitz South Africa Gender: boys Location: South Africa Amenities: although the students are coming from Shiur Beis and Gimmel Mesivta – the Yeshivas Kayitz is fashioned more like a Zal. There are small – but exciting local trips almost every week. In addition, there are two big trips – a three-day trip to a game reserve and other activities around halfway through the summer, and a week-long trip to the ocean down south – towards the end. Each of these big trips – the Bochurim are accompanied by one of the Mashpiím – who learns and Farbrengs with them – adding a spiritual spice to the excitement.

Ages: Session: Website: Director: Contact:

Bochurim going out of Shiur Beis and Gimel Mesivta 6 weeks www.yeshivajoburg.org/kayitz Rabbi Noam Wagner 718 233 3393

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European Tzeirei Hashluchim Sweden Gender: separate camps for girls and boys Location: Gothenburg, Sweden Amenities: A Tzeirei Hashluchim camp, BH filled with great farbrengens, lots of fun, warm chassidishe atmosphere, great trips, friendships, dedicated staff, giving them a renewed chayus in their shlichus.

The atmosphere in camp is permeated with warmth, chassidishkeit, caring, joy and friendship. A place where young shluchim meet friends just like themselves and return home with tremendous inspiration.

A joint project of Chabad Sweden and MyShliach of Merkos suite 302.

Ages: Girls: 7-15-year-olds Boys 8-13-year-olds +yeshivas kayitz program 13-15-year-olds Camp dates bezH: Girls: Boys: Directors: Registration: Contact:

Thursday 7 July - Wednesday 27 July - 8 - 28 Tamuz Monday, 1 August - Thursday 18 August - 4 - 21 Av Rabbi Alexander & Leah Namdar www.Tzeireihashluchim.com WhatsApp: +46707711770

Yeshivas Kayitz Yerushalayim Gender: boys Location: Nachalot, Israel Amenities: The Yeshivas Kayitz is located steps away from the famous Shuk, and minutes from the old city of Jerusalem, giving the campers the ability to explore and learn all about Yerushalayim. Experiencing the sights, sounds and tastes of all Israel has to offer, will be complemented by structured seder, immersion in chassidishe farbrengens and hands-on learning. Oversight for such a unique program will be done by two qualified, energetic and experienced mechanchim. Our home base in Yerushalayim gives us the unique opportunity to explore the land. From a 3-day grand trip to the north of Israel & overnights in the Negev desert to sunrise in Masada & Shabbos in Chevron, YKY will give its participants an outstanding tour of Eretz Yisroel.

Ages: Session: Website: Directors: Contact info:

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Mesivta aged bochurim TBD www.ykysummer.com Rabbi Shmulik Schneerson and Rabbi Yosef Avtzon info@ykysummer.com

Summer Camp Directory Jewish Girls Retreat Gender: Girls Location: East Greenbush, NY Amenities: Large Pond, boating, 14 acres, volleyball Ct, bonfire pit, playground, animals: sheep, goats, chicken, trampoline, creative art clubs, Theme days, trips, hiking, night activities, swimming, Grow Workshop Ages:

YALDAH, BMC, Teen Division ages 7-15

Session: 1 month, 1 week for taste of JGR Website: www.Jewishgirlsretreat.com Director: Mrs. Nechama & Avraham Laber Program Director: Chana Laber Contact: 518-727-9581 Jewishgirlsunite@gmail.com

CKids Gan Israel Gender: boys Location: Florida Amenities: Junior Olympic Size pool, lake with canoeing, stand up paddle boating and kayaking, fishing, 4 inflatables in the lake, High rope course, rock climbing, archery, 2 zip lines, massive swing, two trips weekly, Sports leagues, workshops.

Mission: Every child is an entire world. At CKids Gan Israel we strive to harness their infinite potential through unconditional love, support and personal attention.

A Summer spent in CKids Gan Israel ignites the spark of Judaism that resides within every single camper, allowing authentic Jewish pride to become the cornerstone of their lives.

For: Ages: Session: Website: Director: Contact:

Jewish Public school kids grades 4 - 8 July 5 - July 25 www.ckidsganisrael.com Rabbi Levi and Chaya Plotkin 347-446-0479 Director@ckidsganisraelfl.com

Travel Camp South Africa Gender: Girls Location: South Africa Amenities: Tour the beautiful country of South Africa, they will visit: Johannesburg, Cape Town, Plettenberg Bay, Kruger National Park, Durban with amazing trips and activities and much more along the way. Throughout the program the girls will be given daily shiurim and will enjoy farbrengens with shluchim and shluchos from around the country.

Session: Website: Director: Contact:

4 weeks www.travelcampSA.co.za Rabbi Pini & Rochie Pink camp@chabad.org.za | +27823417485

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Camp L’man Achai Gender: boys Location: Andes, NY Amenities: Camp L’man Achai is a Jewish overnight camp that combines an enriched Jewish atmosphere with the best recreation programs. Our camp’s breathtaking panoramic view of the Pepacton Reservoir Valley and the surrounding mountains and above all offer an opportune oasis for children to experience the warmth and beauty of their heritage in a safe, friendly, and warm environment. Camp L’man Achai is about making people feel welcome and at home in a traditional Jewish setting. It strives to let every camper take part in traditions they might not practice outside of camp and give them an opportunity to build meaningful and lifelong friendships, enjoy outdoor adventure and deepen their love of Judaism. We pride ourselves with A Heritage of Happy Campers.

Ages: Campers entering 4th to 7th grades, Campers entering 8th and 9th grade will join our exciting BMD program, Our teens program is for campers entering 10th to 12th grade Session: Website: Director: Contact:

6 weeks www.camplmanachai.com/ Yitzchok Steinmetz 845-676-3996 845-676-4681 info@camplmanachai.com

Gan Israel Brazil Travel Camp Gender: boys and girls Location: Brazil Amenities: The program will travel to Rio de Janeiro, Iguazu Waterfalls, Recife and S Paulo.

Along with the beautiful scenery, the campers will have daily Shiurim and the opportunity to visit local shluchim and hear their stories.

The camp will be based in Gan Israel’s large and modern campgrounds located in the beautiful mountains in the region of Atibaia. The grounds feature comfortable accommodations, a shul, 2 swimming pools, gymnasium, mini-golf, beach tennis, and many other recreational amenities.

Ages: 9th and 10th grade girls / Bochurim coming out of Shiur Alef & Beis Mesivta Section: Website: Director: contact info:

78 COLlive Magazine

Girls 3 weeks / Boys 4 Weeks www.travelcamp.ganisrael.com.br Rabbi Dovid Weitman braziltravelcamp@gmail.com

Summer Camp Directory Orlando Overnight Camp Gender: Girls Location: Orlando, Florida Amenities: Orlando Overnight Camp was founded in 2020, in response to the global pandemic. We strive to give our girls an amazing camp experience within the comfort of a luxury vacation home. The girls have the opportunity to be immersed in a spiritual environment, and gain not only from the staff but the campers as well. We offer an incredible variety of programs and activities, with top-of-the-line facilities and qualified staff who are committed to the enjoyment and safety of all our campers. Join us to create your own memories.

Ages: Dates: Website: Directors: Contact:

12-14 July 26- August 23 www.orlandoovernightcamp.wixsite.com/overnightcamp Mushkie Brook, Shalehevet Teitelbaum 347-327-4343 / orladnoovernightcamp@gmail.com

Adar II, 5782 79

ASK THE THERAPIST

WITH RABBI DANIEL SCHONBUCH, LMFT

ACHIEVING AUTHENTIC HAPPINESS EXAMINING A TEACHING FROM THE TZEMACH TZEDEK TO FILL AN INTERNAL VOID As we are about to celebrate the holiday of Purim, we need to understand the power of happiness and joy and how to bring these concepts into our lives at all moments.

The question is, how can we experience true happiness all year long? The story of Purim tells us how we can achieve this.

Already in the beginning of the book of Esther, we see that Hashem was indeed guiding us at every moment despite what seemed to be hidden and despite the odds against the Jewish people. At first, it seems that our perception is covered by a mask that Hashem is not with us.

In truth, authentic happiness

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comes from knowing that Hashem is with everyone at every moment, even during times of darkness. It is the awareness of His guidance in our lives that brings us the greatest sense of happiness and well-being. To see this, we need only to remove the mask of the physical world and perceive something much greater taking place.

negative thinking has the power to reduce anxiety and depression and, as science is now discovering, create lasting neurological changes.

The Tzemach Tzedek explained this concept when he said, "Think good and it will be good." Instead of merely stating that we should view a cup as "half full" instead of "half empty," the Tzemach Tzedek proposed filling the cup with positive thoughts. Filling the cup with positivity and avoiding

Category A: The Letter of the Tzemach Tzedek

There are two categories of "thinking good": In category A, you distract your thoughts and focus on positivity. In category B, you consciously determine a positive outcome through your profound trust in G-d.

In one of his letters, the Tzemach Tzedek elaborated on his remarkably psychological approach to treating anxiety or depression. He detailed how to use a behavioral process that distracts one's thoughts and

ADVICE

focuses primarily on the positive: "A person should request from G-d to experience the happiness of his soul, as mentioned in the saying, "Make the soul of your servant happy" (Tehillim 86:4) and also "to remove his feelings of sadness and helplessness" (Siddur). He should also avoid causing himself distress since he can avoid arousing negative feelings.

"The explanation is as follows: a person has three garments [of his soul] - thoughts, speech, and action. And, a person is able to think, speak, and act according to the power of his mind. Even if his heart is afraid, he can remove his thoughts, speech, and actions [from his fears] and, most importantly, not think and speak about them but rather do the opposite. We shouldn't think about fear at all … immediately as one stops thinking about his fears, they will become nullified."

"The key to forgetting your thoughts is to absorb your mind in other matters - especially matters of this world that arouse happiness. Also, [learning] Torah makes a person happy, and studying Torah daily at organized times, especially with others, (including the revealed Torah and the inner dimensions of the Torah [Chassidus]) can be very helpful."

Reflecting the Tzemach Tzedek's approach, modern psychology has focused on the concept of "distraction" as a means of refocusing on more positive and important matters in one's life, thereby reducing the negative impact of anxiety. Distractionbased activities such as counting backward, noticing other bodily

sensations, or taking a walk to the park, have become some of the staples psychologists offer people with anxiety which have proven to provide immediate relief. As Jews, we need to add to these moments of deep contemplation on Hashem's existence (Hisbonenus) by increasing our learning of Torah and Chassidus.

There is a second category of positive thinking (category B) which is only accomplished by deepening one's relationship with G-d. The Rebbe explained that we have the power to think positively and that our positive thoughts cause positive outcomes and that this is accomplished through developing complete trust in G-d.

The Rebbe maintained that this level of trust is distinct from a general faith in G-d (believing in His existence and providence).

Trust implies that a person will "'rely and depend on G‑d alone to the extent that he casts his lot entirely upon Him, as it is written: "Cast your burden upon G‑d," (Tehillim, 55:23), i.e., the person has no other dependency in the world except upon G‑d".

In quoting Duties of the Heart, the Rebbe explained that the level of trust needed to affect a positive outcome should resemble that "'of a prisoner in a dungeon in his master's domain.'

The prisoner puts his trust only in his master, for he is given over to his hand. No other person can cause him harm or help him (Duties of the Heart, the Gate of Trust).' "This itself," explained the Rebbe, "is the foundation for a person's trust that G‑d will

bestow apparent and manifest good upon him, even if he is not worthy of this kindness."

The Rebbe speaks about a total relationship and trust in G-d, which can manifest spontaneous changes in the physical world.

It is opposite to the way by which a person experiencing anxiety believes he is helpless and has lost all control. In this case, a person gives up all fears and turns solely towards G-d for relief. This itself "causes a corresponding approach toward him in the spiritual realms. G‑d protects him and showers mercy upon him even when, were one to make a reckoning, he would not be worthy, He enables him to appreciate manifest and apparent good."

The miracles of Purim remind us of our need to "think good." At the same time, we need to realize that within each and every Jew is the power to create a greater world filled with the perception of G-dliness revealed in the physical world. As the prophet Yeshayahu tells us that in the time of the Geulah, "The world will be filled with the knowledge of Hashem as the waters cover up the ocean bed." This concept brings us the greatest type of happiness possible.

Rabbi Daniel Schonbuch, LMFT, is a noted psychotherapist who is the director of TorahPsychology. org School of Coaching and Counseling. To register for the Diet and Emotional Eating Coaching Program with Dr. Joel Furhman MD, starting May 23 visit www.torahpsychology.org or call 646-428-4723.

Adar II, 5782 81

Is drinking the cure?

Maybe the opposite of "addicted" isn’t "sober"

By Zacci Witkes, LCSW

Purim is one of the happiest holidays of the year. Children and parents parade the streets in colorful costumes holding elaborate shalach manos that are delivered door to door.

What could go wrong?

For a spouse or a child of an alcoholic, the approaching Yom Tov can be a major cause of anxiety. For those currently struggling with alcoholism, Purim may be just another occasion where it feels almost impossible to hold back. And so, the custom of drinking can quickly turn a harmless celebration into a day of dread.

But as we gear up for the holiday, it’s time to take a step back and ponder. Is alcohol really the main source of problems for an alcoholic or is there something deeper? (Hint:

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When a therapist asks, there’s always something deeper.)

Every behavior or habit that we engage in helps us in some way—otherwise, we would stop doing it. Maybe cursing helps us feel in control. Maybe scrolling through social media helps numb a sense of discomfort.

Maybe running late is our way of distracting ourselves from a negative internal state.

Everything we do—especially addictive behaviors—has its source in actually trying to improve our lives.

Of course what often happens is that certain behaviors harm us as much as they can help us, creating new problems as they solve old ones. The approach I use with clients in therapy who are struggling with an addiction—whether it’s

to alcohol, drugs, food, work, unclean websites, social media, or anything else—is to find out, “What problem is this addiction trying to solve?”

The opposite of addiction is not sobriety. The opposite of addiction is connection. This new approach, recently made popular by British-Swiss writer Johann Hari, points out that not every person who drinks a shot of alcohol or gets high on marijuana goes on to become addicted. That’s because the substances themselves are not the source of the problem; the real issue an addict has is an inability to connect in a healthy way to themselves and to others.

This year, as Purim rolls around, I wonder if we might stop worrying so much about a child’s, partner’s, parent’s,

HEALTH

or neighbor’s drinking issue.

Instead, we can view the struggle as an attachment issue. The substance is there as a form of medicine, an addict’s desperate attempt to heal their internal pain.

If someone you love is struggling with an addiction, sometimes the best thing you can do for them is... nothing. You can focus on caring for yourself. Set strong boundaries, emotional and otherwise, to separate your own happiness from the addict’s behavior. Remember that someone else’s addiction is not your fault and has nothing to do with you. This is their journey and healing ultimately has to come from within.

Focusing on yourself might

not heal the addict. But as you work on your own growth, you’ll be able to live a happier and healthier life despite the addict’s dysfunction.

If you are the one currently struggling with an addiction, know that complete healing is possible. By healing, I don’t mean becoming sober, but I mean actually learning how to connect with your own internal world and with others, forming deep relationships that will become a major source of strength and comfort.

Yes, the drinking on Purim can have a dark side. But as we get ready to hear the megillah, invite guests for the seudah, and drop off mishloach manos, let’s take a new approach to

drinking. This year is the year to stop thinking about all the mashke, and start thinking about all the opportunities to connect with others over the Yom Tov with true internal joy.

-Yosef Witkes, LCSW, is a licensed clinical social worker who sees clients in person and virtually as part of his Crown Heights-based private practice. He is trained in trauma-focused breathwork, somatic experiencing, and EMDR therapy. His goal is to help clients understand themselves and their behaviors in order to fully heal from past experiences and grow as a person. He is currently accepting new clients and can be reached by phone, text, or Whatsapp at 347450-4329.

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Real Simple Feast

Cookbook author Rivky Kleiman presents recipes from her highly acclaimed new cookbook Simply: Simple Gourmet. Every Day. Rivky Kleiman is Brooklyn born and bred. She remembers being her mother's sous chef at a very young age. Her mother had attended culinary school before pursuing a career in medicine, which resulted in Rivky's cutting edge, gourmet style. Her creativity in the kitchen was honed during her mother's schooling, and by the time she was in the 8th grade, salads, baking and desserts were totally her domain. Rivky married and taught for many years as her passion in the kitchen never abated. She coauthored the wildly popular Bais Yaakov cookbook and then began being featured regularly in Mishpacha magazine's Family Table.

She classifies her style as simple gourmet that is doable for all, no matter what level. Rivky resides in Lakewood New Jersey with her husband and family.

After the smashing success of her highly acclaimed cookbook, Simply Gourmet, people came to rely on Rivky Kleiman's recipes, knowing that they are easy to prepare and always simply delicious.

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PAREVE

Directions:

YIELDS 4-5 SERVINGS Don’t be fooled by the simplicity of putting this together. With its fresh, light garlic and lemon flavors, it simply can’t be beat.

Ingredients: 4-5

(1¼-1½-inch-thick) salmon fillets

sea salt, to taste onion powder, to taste garlic powder, to taste paprika, to taste

avocado or canola oil

4 cloves

2. P lace salmon fillets into prepared baking pan.

Season with salt, onion powder, garlic powder, and paprika. Rest seasoned fish for 10 minutes for flavors to meld.

3. P repare the marinade: In a small bowl, whisk together oil, garlic, parsley, lemon zest, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.

4. B rush marinade generously over salmon. Rest fish for 5-10 minutes.

5. B ake for 15-17 minutes. Remove from oven; baste with marinade.

Marinade 4 Tbsp

1. P reheat oven to 400°F. Spray a baking pan with nonstick cooking spray.

garlic, crushed

2 Tbsp fresh parsley, chopped, or ¾ Tbsp dried parsley flakes zest of 1 lemon juice of 1 lemon (2 Tbsp) ½ tsp

kosher salt

½ tsp

coarsely ground black pepper

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TIP To avoid cross contamination, wash and dry the basting brush that touched raw fish before using the brush again on the cooked fish.

RECIPES

Adar II, 5782 87

PAREVE YIELDS 8 SERVINGS

Smoked paprika and crushed red pepper flakes give extra depth to a simple side of roasted cauliflower. Drizzling the honey and lemon during the final roast takes it over the top. This will definitely become your new favorite.

Ingredients:

Directions:

5 Tbsp olive oil

1. Preheat oven to 450°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

1 tsp

smoked paprika

½ tsp sea salt ¼ tsp crushed red pepper flakes pinch black pepper 2 lb

fresh or frozen cauliflower florets (see Note)

2 Tbsp honey 1½ tsp lemon juice

2. In a large resealable bag, combine olive oil, paprika, salt, red pepper flakes, and pepper. Add cauliflower florets, seal bag, and shake until all pieces are well coated.

3. Transfer cauliflower to prepared baking sheet. Bake for 20 minutes.

4. Combine honey and lemon juice.

Drizzle over cauliflower; toss to coat.

Return to oven; bake an additional 15 minutes.

NOTE If using frozen cauliflower, run under hot water until fully defrosted, drain well, and place on paper towels to dry.

TIP Steps 1-2 can be done the night before and then cauliflower can be refrigerated in the resealable bag until ready to bake.

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RECIPES

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Pareve Yields 8 servings With a flaky crust folded over juicy plums, this rustic plum galette makes a delightful dessert.

Ingredients: 1½ cups flour 3 Tbsp sugar ½ tsp sea salt 1 stick margarine, chilled, cut into ½-inch pieces 2 Tbsp ice water

Plum Filling 4 medium plums, halved, pitted and cut into ½-inch wedges ¼ cupsugar 2 Tbspcornstarch 1 tsplemon juice •zest of 1 lemon 1 Tbspvanilla sugar ½ cupseedless raspberry preserves, melted (see Note) •water, for brushing 1-2 tspturbinado sugar or white sugar, for sprinkling

1. Prepare the crust: In a large bowl, combine flour, sugar, and salt. Add margarine; use your fingers to work it into the mixture until mixture resembles coarse crumbs.

Sprinkle water over mixture, working it in, until dough has formed. Shape dough into a ball, cover in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for 1 hour.

2. Preheat oven to 425°F. 3. Prepare the plum filling: In a medium bowl, combine plums, sugar, cornstarch, lemon juice, zest, and vanilla sugar; toss to combine. Set aside.

4. Remove dough from refrigerator. Prepare a baking sheet and 2 sheets of parchment paper. Lightly flour one sheet of parchment paper. Place disc of dough on paper. Place second sheet of parchment paper on dough. Roll dough into a 12-inch round. Transfer the rolled-out dough, with the parchment sheets, onto prepared baking sheet.

Remove and discard top sheet of parchment paper.

5. Spread half the melted raspberry preserves onto the dough, leaving a 2-inch border all around. Working in from the outer edge of the circle, lay plum wedges on the preserves, slightly overlapping wedges. Work inward until all plums have been used. Place in freezer for 10 minutes to firm the dough.

6. Using the parchment paper as a guide, gently fold up the dough around the border, pleating approximately every 3 inches and pressing down lightly to secure, up and over the fruit.

7. Brush crust with water; sprinkle crust with turbinado sugar (which yields a fabulous crunch). Bake 35-40 minutes.

Remove from oven. Brush remaining raspberry preserves over plums. Allow to cool before serving.

Note To melt preserves, microwave for 10-15 seconds.

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RECIPES

Adar II, 5782 91

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GUIDE

Crown Heights Kosher Food Guide ABE’S CORNER Gastropub offering unique, delicious food in a spacious and immersive setting.

Kosher Certification: Rabbi Eliyahu Matusof 674 Rogers Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11226 Phone: (718) 684-7828 ALENBI Kosher restaurant presenting refined Israeli plates in a chic, modern space withlarge windows.

Kosher Certification: OK 887 Nostrand Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11225 Phone: (347) 529-3739

ALBANY BAKERY 339 Albany Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11213 Phone: (718) 778-1733

94 COLlive Magazine

ALMAH CAFE Kosher Coffeehouse and bakeshop Kosher Certification: CHK 87 Utica Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11213 Phone: (347) 533-6494

BROOKLYN ARTISAN BAKEHOUSE Rustic decor, down to earth ambiance and flavorful menu.

Kosher Certification: OK 529 E New York Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11225 Phone: (347) 292-1382

BAKERIE Modern bakery for kosher breads, sweets & daytime noshes with housemade spreads & coffee.

Kosher Certification: OK 252 Albany Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11213 Phone: (718) 693-8248

CHOCOLATTE Bright & Modern cafe in Crown Heights, free WiFi Open 24 hours.

Kosher Certification: CHK 792 Eastern Pkwy, Brooklyn, NY 11213

BAGUETTE EXPRESS Israeli style falafel, shwarma and sandwiches.

Kosher Certification: CHK 250 Kingston Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11230 Phone: (718) 484-7814 BASIL PIZZA & WINE BAR Kosher pizzeria & wine bar offering wood-fired pies & other Italian fare in a homeysleek setting.

Kosher Certification: OU 270 Kingston Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11213 Phone: (718) 285-8777 BOEUF & BUN Innovative, handcrafted burgers pair with a variety of craft beers at this upbeat locale.

Kosher Certification: CHK 271 Kingston Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11213 Phone: (718) 221-8900 CROWN PIZZA Dark wood & exposed brick adorn the interior of this upmarket pizzeria with specialty slices.

Kosher Certification: OK 419 Kingston Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11230 Phone: (718) 484-4817

ESS AND BENTCH Offering hot dogs, shnitzel, sandwiches and french fries Kosher Certification: CHK 313 Kingston Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11213 Phone: (718) 705-7770 GOMBO’S HEIMISHE BAKERY Counter-serve bakery specializing in jelly doughnuts, plus other sweets, sandwiches & coffee.

328 Kingston Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11213 Phone: (718) 771-7701 GRUIT A neighborhood restaurant & garden with a modern American kitchen and strong focus on seasonality & cocktails.

Kosher Certification: OK 252 Empire Blvd, Brooklyn, NY 11225 Phone: (347) 846-0622

GUIDE HOLESOME BAGELS Bustling shop offering housebaked bagels, breakfast, sandwiches, pizza & salads.

Kosher Certification: CHK 333 Kingston Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11213 Phone: (347) 955-5300

MENDY’S Mendy’s Deli is the place to go for burger, a delicious steak,or a heAvenly sandwich.

Kosher Certification: CHK 792 Eastern Pkwy, Brooklyn, NY 11213 Phone: (718) 907-8877

IZZY’S BBQ SMOKEHOUSE Kosher BYOB barbecue restaurant serving platters, sandwiches, sides & desserts in hip digs.

Kosher Certification: OK 397 Troy Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11213 Phone: (347) 425-0524

MERMELSTEIN’S Deli & Home-style Jewish Food Kosher Certification:CHK 351 Kingston Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11213 Phone: (718) 778-3100

KINGSTON BAKE SHOP Kosher Certification: CHK 380 Kingston Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11225 Phone: (718) 467-2047 KOSHERTOWN CAFE Kosher Certification: CHK 469 Albany Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11213 MAMA KITCHEN NY Restaurant featuring a funky modern interior & menu of contemporary & classic Israeli cuisine.

7 Rochester Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11233 Phone: (718) 771-3038 MEAT MEAT is where food and design meet. Extremely elegant restaurant featuring modern Mediterranean cuisine.

Kosher Certification: OU 123 Kingston Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11213 Phone: (516) 888-1730

MOZZARELLA Fine Dining Dairy establishment conveniently located in Crown Heights.

Kosher Certification: CHK 265 Troy Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11213 Phone: (917) 633-6770 NORIBAR High quality Sushi meals using fresh ingredients and skilled preparation techniques.

Kosher Certification: CHK 326 Kingston Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11213 Phone: (347) 913-8888 PRIME AVENUE Prime Avenue offers a delicious global menu that includes schnitzel sandwiches & Chinese dishes.

Kosher Certification: CHK 377 Kingston Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11213 Phone: (718) 576-6665

SAUCE N CHEESE Stop-in kosher pizzeria offering slices, calzones & salads in a simple counterserve setting.

Kosher Certification: CHK 509 Albany Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11203 Phone: (347) 425-1450 SUSHI SPOT Snug storefront offering both basic & specialty kosher sushi rolls for delivery & curb-side pickup.

Kosher Certification: CHK 426 Kingston Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11225 Phone: (718) 756-4040 SWEET EXPRESSIONS Ice cream shop, candies, chocolates and sweets Hot and cold shakes and smoothies.

310 Kingston Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11213 Phone: (718) 613-0188

TAKEOUT DOVID MALKA 1552 Carroll Street 718-773-2335 KOSHERTOWN 469 Albany Ave phone 718-778-6171 THE MARKETPLACE 589 E New York Ave Phone (718) 363-1300

Adar II, 5782 95

AD

‫טעמו וראו כי טו‬ ‫ב‬ ‘‫ה‬

A glimpse of the upcoming sichos in Project Likkutei Sichos Likutei Sichos Vol. 19 Devarim 1:

Re’eh 2:

Nitzavim 2:

The Long, Loving Way

A Chosen and Sacred Place

Jewish Continuity

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Rabbi Yochanan ben Zakkai and a Bauthesthean debate Moshe’s love.

Devarim 2:

Torah with a Human Touch

How Moshe bridges heaven and earth.

Ve'eschanan 1:

Child-like Study

Lessons in innocence and humility from a peculiar Rambam.

Ve'eschanan 2:

Hand Before Head

A halachic analysis of tefillin’s proper order and its implications for daily life.

Eikev 1:

Heels Over Hierarchies The infinite value of every Mitzvah.

Eikev 2:

Closing Time

A Rashi-inspired reflection on the role of this final generation.

Re’eh 1:

Tragedy and Unity

Two Aramaic translations reveal two perspectives on challenge and Divine unity.

Unearthing two forms of sanctity in the Har Habayis from the Rambam’s language.

How the Jewish people are one with G-d, forever.

Shoftim 1:

Making Unity Practical

All for the People

Heart and mind — the two roles of a Jewish leader.

Shoftim 2:

The Immovable Egyptian An investigation into the prohibition against dwelling in Egypt.

Ki Teitzei 1:

Rethinking Reward

A conclusion on Tractate Chullin and an analysis of the subject of reward for Mitzvos.

Ki Teitzei 2:

Of Freedom and Fences Marriage advice from a law about fences.

Vayelech 1:

How Yom Kippur and Vayelech bring abstract ideals into everyday reality.

Vayelech 2:

The Generation Gap

Rashi on the transition from Moshe to Yehoshua and the implications for today.

Ha’azinu 1:

Eternal Witnesses

Rashi on the difference in testimony for Moshe’s two final pacts.

Ha’azinu 2:

The Death that Couldn't be Stopped

The Jewish people's failed protest of Moshe’s death, and its lesson in our lives.

Ki Tavo 1:

Sukkos 1:

Until Next Year

Our Shared Sukkah

Making sense of a Rashi about the uniqueness of Bikkurim.

Ki Tavo 2:

Reading Blessings

An inspiring spiritual inversion of a graphic curse.

The deeper dimension to the law of Sukkah ownership.

Sukkos 2:

Distilled into Details

How unity amongst Jews is expressed in the Sukkah and Lulav.

Nitzavim 1:

Still Standing

Three perspectives on Moshe’s final gathering.

Reinvigorate your hiskashrus and join the PLS community; sign up at

projectlikkuteisichos.org

KIDS

Kids

PURIM FUN Purim activity courtesy of Kinderblast

Adar II, 5782 99

Needed: Coloring tool (crayons, markers etc.)

Scissors String Instructions: 1. Color each illustration 2. Cut each illustration around its frame 3. Punch a hole in each one 4. Lace a string through them 5. Hang up on a wall or door

100 COLlive Magazine

KIDS

Adar II, 5782 101

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KIDS

Purim activity courtesy of Kinderblast

Needed: Coloring tool (crayons, markers etc.)

Scissors A bottle for Shalach Manos Instructions: 1. Color the illustration 2. Carefully cut out the dotted line of the clown's hat 3. Fold over top of bottle

Adar II, 5782 103

Men in Costume The pros and cons of adults dressing up for Purim (but mostly cons)

By Mordechai Schmutter A lot of people wonder, "Should I dress up on Purim?"

Okay, adults wonder this. Kids take it for granted. Why not get as much candy as possible all over an outfit that can't stand up to laundry?

Oh, and by "adults," I generally mean men. Most women don't dress up, unless you count wearing a different color sheitel. But as a man, you might be wondering, "Should I dress up?"

You might want to, but every time you bring it up, your wife changes the topic – generally to mishloach manos. Her goal is to make you as embarrassed by her mishloach manos theme as she is by your costume.

So it's good to weigh your options.

Because now is the time, right? After all those years growing up where you had to wear hand-me-down "cowboy pants," whatever those are, you finally

104 COLlive Magazine

have access to money and a car, and you have no one to tell you that you can't wear something, except your wife. And she doesn't have to come.

Where was she when you were figuring out what to wear in the first place?

On the one hand, as an adult, who will really see the costume? You're definitely too old to dress up for Megillah, and the whole rest of the day you're going to be in the car, looking for parking. Or circling blocks and looking for address numbers in a costume that doesn't leave much in the way of maneuverability. No, One size does NOT fit all. Who is "all"?

Am I not part of this "all"? How many dwarfs did they test this on before deciding it was okay for everyone else?

Maybe it's a typo. Maybe there's a guy at the factory named "Al" and "One size fits Al." But not this size. A bigger one.

HUMOR

Or maybe they realized that their profit margin would be bigger if, on top of making the costumes not stand up to laundry or weather, they also made each costume slightly too small. Who's going to call them on it? Is someone coming back into the factory and going, "Look!

It doesn't fit me!" You don't even get your money back if you can prove it doesn't fit all. They'll probably say you just gained weight, so you could come in and try to get a refund. ("One size fits all? Challenge accepted!") Best case scenario, they still won't add material to every single costume. They'll just change the label to, "One size fits all except Mr. Schmutter."

But you still have options. For example, you can pretend you're wearing a small costume on purpose. Depending on the costume, you can say, "I'm a fat baby!"

Or, "I'm a fat kohein gadol!" or whatever.

On the other hand, there's a pretty good chance your wife will be driving, especially if you can convince her that you've been drinking.

(Though don't actually drink if the costume is a rental.)

If your wife drives, you can actually get out of the car with your kids and impress their rebbeim.

Because this is the kind of thing that impresses rebbeim.

Though good luck getting in and out of the car in that costume.

They're also not easy to walk in, and the eyeholes don't always line up. You'd think costume designers would measure the eyeholes on an actual person.

And not on that gorilla named Al that they keep in a cage at the back of the factory.

Also, with adults, finding the

right costume is a difficult balance to achieve. For one thing, with about half the kid costumes, if an adult wore it, he wouldn't look special. For example, a lot of kids dress up as a rabbi, complete with a fake beard. If a Tatty puts on a fake beard, everyone would be like, "Why can't you just grow a beard?"

"I do have a beard. I'm wearing the fake one over it."

And yes, people would mention it.

Society doesn't view fake beards the same way they view toupees. It's not like everyone's tripping over themselves trying not to let you know that they know that you're wearing a fake beard.

Especially since you keep pushing it down to eat.

Another issue is that adults look too authentic in most costumes. You can't even tell that they're wearing a costume.

For example, when an adult dresses up as a pirate, he looks like a pirate. When a kid dresses up like a pirate, he looks like a pirate that is for some reason very short and has marker scribbled on his face. Is this something a lot of pirates had? I think if a pirate shows up to work with marker on his face, the other pirates would push him overboard.

And it doesn't help that a lot of adults don't wear costumes at all, so if you dress up as a profession other than your own, people won't assume you dressed up either. They'll just ask, "Oh. When did you become a farmer?"

"What? No, it's a costume. My shalach manos is vegetables.”

Think about it. Have you ever seen an adult dressed

Adar II, 5782 105

HUMOR

up as a Rabbi? No, because it's not an adult dressed as a rabbi. It's a rabbi. (You assume.) You suddenly come over and start asking him personal shailos. Or else it's just an adult in a kapota.

Because if a kid wears a kapota, it's a costume. If a Tatty wears a kapota, it's a guy in a kapota. People go, "So you're not dressing up?" They think he's just wearing Shabbos clothes.

In fact, some adults have kapotas that they pull out of the closet every single Purim. (I'm referring here to people in communities where no one wears them the rest of the year. I'm assuming people who wear kapotas all year suddenly pull out regular suit jackets on Purim and blow everyone away. "Look, I'm a baal'habos! I'm going to pretend to like red wine and talk about the economy!")

For example, a couple of years ago, my had a small sit-down party on Purim night – men only – and the invitation said, "BYOB." And apparently, no one knows what that stands for, because not a single person brought booze, but like seven people showed up in bekeshes (that's how they call kapotas in my community). And we were all sober. So it was a pretty awkward night.

But that's what kids do, for the most part – they dress up like adults. Kids want to be something when they grow up, and Purim is the time to try it out.

"The world is endless possibilities -- I want to be a pirate." As an adult, you know: "I'm never gonna be a pirate." At some point in life, you look around and think, "It's probably too late to be a pirate. I'd probably have to go to school or something, no?

I'm an accountant. That's all I know how to do.

Account for things." A

106 COLlive Magazine

kid never wants to be an accountant.

Adult ego-boosting tip: Any job where it doesn't really matter what you wear to work is something no kid will ever want to be for Purim. Actual income potential is not a factor. So if your kid doesn't want to dress up as someone "in real estate" or whatever, don't feel bad.

(And yes, I know; I keep bringing up pirates. My 4-year-old is really into them.

I don't know why. They're basically robbers with boats. Talk about a highspeed getaway vehicle. "The cops are coming! Quick! Everybody start rowing!

Or maybe we should hoist the sails and let the wind blow us in the same direction it's blowing their boat! …Hoist?

Is that the right word? I didn't know I had to go to school.”)

Meanwhile, an adult can't convincingly dress up as a kid. What should he wear?

Clothing with knee holes and ketchup stains? (Kids have a lot of condiment stains, because you're bound to get them when you eat the condiments plain.

It's just playing the odds.)

"What are you, a homeless person?"

"No! I'm a kid!"

So our costume options are very limited.

My point, I guess, is that I wrote this article to make a list of pros and cons as far as adults wearing costumes, and most of what I came up with, apparently, was cons. But if you're going to let a few downsides stop you from doing something, you don't really understand Purim.

-- Mordechai Schmutter is a freelance writer and a humor columnist for Hamodia, COLlive.com and other publications. He also has six books out and does standup comedy. He can be contacted at mschmutter@gmail.com

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Adar II, 5782 107

By Zev Gotkin Crowned by an elegant green awning in front, the apartment building at 346 New York Avenue projects a regal gravitas that makes it easy to imagine it once housed a prominent head state in a bygone era. And in fact, "President Plaza Condo" was the home of the Lubavitcher Rebbe and Rebbetzin Chaya Mushka Schneerson.

Then &

The five-story building built in 1920 has 21,660 square feet and 22 units, all residential.

Located on the corner of President Street, it is flanked by a row of pre-war homes on its left. While it's unclear who originally owned the building, there are 57 closings on record since January 1, 1970.

After their arrival in the United States of America from war-torn Europe, the Rebbe and Rebbetzin briefly The Rebbe can be seen walking near the building at 346 New York Avenue lived at 770 Eastern Parkway.

They moved into apartment 4D at 345 New York Avenue in 1941 As a neighbor, Rabbi Goldstein noticed until the mid-1950s. They then moved to a house something peculiar that caught his attention. half a block away at 1304 President Street.

Every morning, when the Rebbe would leave Over the past ten decades, the building passed the building to go to his office at 770, he would through several owners and underwent numerous briefly turn around and look up after crossing renovations. In the late 90's, Rabbi YY Jacobson, the avenue to President Street. Curious, Rabbi then Rov of Congregation Beis Shmuel Chabad, Goldstein once stood at a distance to see what lived with his family in an apartment on the first the Rebbe was looking out. floor. The Rebbe's apartment on the fourth floor It turns out, whenever the Rebbe would leave was divided into two separate apartments, and for the day, the Rebbetzin would stand at the Rabbi Jacobson rented one of them as a studio window. After the Rebbe would cross the avenue to record his popular classes on Torah and and reached halfway down President Street, he Chassidus. looked back and gave the Rebbetzin a little wave.

While the Rebbe lived there, a resident of the The Rebbetzin would wave back. They did this so building was Rabbi Yosef Goldstein, the veteran subtly that hardly anyone would notice. educator and storyteller known as "Uncle Yossi."

Another neighbor was Rabbi Yitzchok Isbee who He rented a unit in the building upon seeing a taught in Yeshivah Torah Vodaath. His student, listing in the New York Times for $120 a month Rabbi Asher Zelingold recalled his teacher once and receiving encouragement from the Rebbe to telling the class with great admiration, "Last night, take it.

I heard the Lubavitcher Rebbe learning Torah the

108 COLlive Magazine

1940

Now

LOCAL

346 New York Avenue, Brooklyn, NY 11213

2022 whole night long." Having lived in apartment 3D, directly under the Rebbe's apartment, Rabbi Isbee apparently heard learning and footsteps throughout the night.

The Mazkir Rabbi Leibel Groner relayed a story about a Gerer Chossid from Israel who was visiting Crown Heights in the 1950s. The man, who was in business, wore a spiffy white hat and short jacket that were in the style of the day.

Waiting for the elevator at 346 New York avenue, he stood alongside a young man with a black beard.

While waiting, the young man inquired about who he was and the nature of his business.

Hearing that the businessman traveled to foreign countries, the young man asked where he had recently been.

"Nicaragua."

"Is there a mikveh there?" the young man asked.

"No." "Perhaps, the reason why you go there is to build a mikveh for Jewish women and tourists

who visit," said the young man. As the doors opened, the young man briefly bid him goodbye and they parted ways.

Years later, the businessman revisited New York, wearing the traditional clothing of a Gerer Chossid. He decided to visit the Rebbe on a Sunday to receive a blessing and a dollar for charity.

As he approached, the Rebbe asked: "Is there already a mikveh in Nicaragua?"

At first, the Gerer Chosasid stared blankly, not understanding what the Rebbe was talking about.

"Don't you remember?" the Rebbe said.

"Several years ago, we met in an elevator and I asked you about the mikvah."

While neighborhoods and buildings may change, some things never do. And, that is the impact and legacy left by the people who once lived in them. Long after their physical presence has left, their encouragement to do all we can for the betterment of others remains.

Adar II, 5782 109

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