This edition of The Roar Post is going to begin in a manner that is slightly different from what we usually do. To bring the 2024-2025 school year to a proper close, it feels only right to begin this issue with a number of student voices as opposed to just my own. Our beloved seniors are off to start the next chapters of their lives in settings both within our nation and beyond our borders. However, before their departure, their successes in balancing both their academic and social lives over the last four years are deserving of the highest level of recognition For this reason, seniors were encouraged to submit three words that best describe their high school experiences to be published in this edition’s newsletter Their experiences serve as models for us underclassmen to learn from, and encourage us to reflect on our own high school careers in anticipation for the transition to adulthood I hope these short, impactful quotes will resonate with you and help start this year’s final issue of The Roar Post on a meaningful note
Scheck Hillel Engineers Win First Place & Other Awards
By Annie Slomovitz
On Monday, May 12, 2025, seventeen groups of engineers proudly represented Scheck Hillel at CIJE (Center for Initiatives in Jewish Education)’s innovation day. Throughout this school year, members of the 9th and 10 grade classes has been working tirelessly in Ms. Sabrina Ferster’s engineering program, creating and building new, innovative ideas. Students competed against schools across the region, including Posnack, Katz Yeshiva, Donna Klein, and Yeshiva Tiferet, each of whom presented their own amazing projects We were tasked with coding, building, and marketing these inventions. All inventions were aimed at solving real-world problems.
Once we arrived at Motorola Solutions, the site of the competition, we set up our stations that displayed our websites, boards, and inventions before beginning our presentations to various judges from other schools and engineering programs. During the first round, students had a total of eight minutes to pitch their ideas and answer questions from the judges.
One project from Scheck Hillel included the First Hair Kit by sophomores Jeremy Dejman and Andrea Chocron Their invention was a smart hairbrush cleaning device that cleaned a person’s hairbrush in under one minute! Another invention worth mentioning was the Baby Alert, created by freshmen Charlotte Pery and Stella Lekach. This smartwatch alarmed parents when their baby’s temperature was too high at night so they would not have to sacrifice precious sleep in exchange for checking on their baby at unnecessary times.
The overall competition lasted three rounds. Four of Sheck Hillel’s teams made it to the second round: the Buckle Buddy, Bracha Box, AeroShift, and Case Care. A panel of judges then came around to each team for ten minutes each for another pitch and Q&A session. However, only one of Scheck Hillel’s teams made it to the final round: the Buckle Buddy, created by 9th graders Ami Kattan, Annie Slomovitz, and Eva Winterman, alongside two other groups from Posnack. We, the creators of the Buckle Buddy, presented in front of a panel of guest judges and members of the competition. Our invention was a baby car seat with built-in audible and visual indicators to alarm parents when their baby was unbuckled or not buckled properly.
After the judges had finally made their decisions, it was announced that the Buckle Buddy had won first place! There were also three other awards distributed to non-winners: Most Innovative, Best Prototype, and Most Market Ready. Scheck Hillel achieved another win with AeroShift, created by freshmen Mijal Furman and Tali Kiblisky, winning Most Market Ready. This invention was a circular air vent controlled by a remote, allowing the vents to rotate 360 degrees and adjust their position to improve air flow and control.
In the end, this competition was a huge success. Students were able to show off the skills they learned over the year and learn about other students’ inventions and innovative ideas.
A Photo of our CIJE winners and Ms. Sabrina Ferster- Credit: Annie Slomovitz
10 Grade Thesis Exposition
By Anael Haratz & Emily Waich
This year, the 10th-grade students participated in their very own 10th-grade thesis expo. It provides students with an opportunity to design their learning journey on any topic they choose. Students define a goal, research, create a product, present, and write a report. Throughout the journey, there are checkpoints for them as they document their learning, overcome challenges, and navigate new pathways. Without traditional guidance from a teacher, students had to rely on their independence to make their ideas come to life This experience pushed students to step out of their comfort zones and explore their passions in a meaningful way. Among the projects presented at the expo, two students in particular stood out to students and teachers: Shira Sager and Liyam Ben-Shalom.
Liyam Ben-Shalom created the Empire State Building out of pure wood. He used only glue, a knife, and a saw to create the structure with zero machine use. Ben-Shalom chose this as his thesis due to his love for architecture. This project was done with extremely precise detail, taking many months to complete. BenShalom has been building different structures over the course of his life, so when the opportunity presented itself, he knew he wanted to recreate the Empire State Building.
Some Examples of Thesis Projects - Credits: Tamar Grobman, Warriorbracelet.com
As part of her project, Shira Sager started the Warrior Bracelet Business. She designed special bracelets that incorporate a feature that allows users to tap their phone on them and instantly be directed to a website that highlights a different Jewish “warrior” each day. Warriors are not limited to soldiers; rather, they can be a hostage or anyone in the Jewish community who has supported our growth. The bracelets come in many different sizes and colors, making them meaningful and personal for anyone who wears them. All of the funds raised from these bracelets will go directly to Israel. Sager’s goal with this project is to build a strong and united community of warriors–people who stand together strongly in support of each other.
These incredible projects are just two examples of the passion, dedication, and creativity that the 10th Grade Thesis inspires in Scheck Hillel students. Through their work, Liyam Ben-Shalom, Shira Sager, and many other students not only explored their interests but also made a meaningful impact on their communities. The 10th Grade Thesis Expo encourages students to take ownership of their learning, build real-world skills, and develop a deeper sense of purpose. We can’t wait to see how they continue to grow and lead in the future!
Celebrating Yom Ha’Atzmaut
By Mia Fishman
The State of Israel was born on May 14, 1948. It is a Jewish state and homeland formed after years of exile and tragedies. This event–this miracle–is what Yom Ha’Atzmaut celebrates. It is a day that all of Israel celebrates with immense joy and happiness. Scheck Hillel’s celebrations have only added to this massive, worldwide event. Walking through the halls of Scheck Hillel on Yom Ha’Atzmaut, the joy and pride emanating from each student and faculty member could clearly be seen and felt
The day kicked off with a large assembly filled with music, dancing, and an amazing speech delivered by Rabbi Sprung, with attendees including students from preschool to high school. The assembly set the tone for the fun, joyous day to follow. During community time, many fun Israel-related activities took place, and delicious snow cones were being served to students. Each and every student here at Scheck Hillel was involved in the day’s Yom Ha’Atzmaut celebrations, whether it was participating in fun activities, eating delicious snow cones, hanging out with friends, or simply listening to Israeli music. The joy and ruach were palpable!
The miracle of Yom Ha’Atzmaut is one that should be remembered and celebrated for many years to come No one would have guessed that Israel, a country barely visible on a map at first glance, would win the War of Independence against Egypt, Syria, Lebanon, and Jordan Each of these fronts boasted more soldiers, more weapons, and a clear advantage over Israel The State of Israel had only recently formed the day before and was immediately pushed into a war, one that they would be fighting by enlisting the help of Holocaust survivors and victims of persecution from neighboring Arab countries. Despite their clear disadvantage and trauma, they stood strong, fighting to protect the land of Israel, the Jewish Homeland.
Commemorating Yom Ha’Shoah At Scheck Hillel
By Ami Kattan
Every year on the 27th of Nissan, the Jewish community commemorates Yom HaShoah and remembers the six million Jewish victims who perished in the Holocaust. Here at Scheck Hillel, we held a meaningful ceremony to remember this tragedy; we lit candles, recited prayers, and listened to stories to honor the victims and survivors. As a part of the commemoration, the 9th grade class traveled to the Miami Beach Holocaust Memorial, where they viewed powerful sculptures, learned about the history of the Holocaust, and read the names of victims and survivors.
The most unforgettable part of this experience was meeting 100-year-old Holocaust survivor Jack Waksal He told the 9th-grade class of his escape from a labor camp and how he survived by hiding in the forests of Poland for two years Hearing his story in person impacted us all and helped the grade understand why it is so important never to forget the atrocities of the Holocaust. Am Israel Chai!
A Photo of Grade 9 Students Posing with WaksalCredit: Ami Kattan
Scheck Hillel Unites To Observe Yom Ha’Zikaron
By Tamar Grobman
Since the establishment of the State of Israel in 1948, the Jewish homeland has lost over 23,000 brave soldiers and civilians to war and acts of terrorism. 23,000. Alongside those 23,000 souls whose lives have been stripped from them in the most unjust of circumstances are thousands more bereaved families and friends of the deceased whose cries of mourning are yet to cease. And alongside those relatives in constant mourning are the Jewish people as a whole, crying together in hopes that the sacrifices of the fallen will always be remembered.
On April 30, 2025, Scheck Hillel’s high school students gathered together in the cafeteria to commemorate Yom Ha’Zikaron, Israel’s memorial day. Led by Morah Eti Levy, nine students from grades 9-11 as well as a number of faculty members took to the stage to recite words and prayers honoring the grieving and the deceased. From letters written by fallen soldiers to excerpts derived from Yarden Bibas’s eulogy to his late wife and children, one resonant message was repeatedly conveyed to audience members as the ceremony progressed: Never forget those who fought for our freedom. In the midst of these recitations, lower school students under the guidance of second-grade teacher Alexa Altman sang songs, namely Amit Farkash and Yiftach Kerzner’s “םיבכוכ ןוילימ” (“a million stars”), in honor of those lost in combat.
of Yom Ha’Zikaron - Credit: @scheckhillel on Instagram
Among the students on stage was junior Amit Elbaz-Starinsky, daughter of Consul General Maor Elbaz-Starinsky, who offered insights into the experience of being a student speaker. “Speaking in Yom Ha’Zikaron taught me what really matters in life–to appreciate every moment and to always remember the people who fought for us,” she said.
“Speaking in the assembly was an incredible honor and privilege for me,” added sophomore Andy Chocron, one of the ceremony’s two student leaders. “As a proud Jewish student, it is important I spread awareness and pride for my religion. I am so grateful to have done just that in the assembly.”
The practice of observing and commemorating the fallen has existed long before the establishment of an official Israeli state Spanning from the construction of the first Jewish neighborhood outside of Jerusalem in 1860 to the War of Independence in 1948, thousands gave their lives protecting their Jewish brothers and sisters for the slim chance that their descendants would enjoy a homeland for themselves. Even today, as we struggle tirelessly to protect the state of Israel from enemy fronts, we keep in mind what our ancestors gave for us to embrace the Israel we know and love today. We must continue to ensure that their sacrifices were not in vain.
A Photo of our Grade 2 Students Singing Songs in Honor
Israel’s 77 Birthday th
By Lyla Faith
Yom Ha’Atzmaut celebrates the official establishment of the state of Israel on May 14, 1948. Within the State of Israel, it is a day of pure celebration. Outside of Israel, Jewish communities celebrate this day with a variety of cultural events, meals, and gatherings.
On May 1, 2025, a schoolwide celebration to commemorate Israel's 77th birthday took place, the campus as a whole being filled with Ruach and spirit. The day before the celebrations, students received shirts embedded with a lion and the map of Israel with a lion embedded on them. The top of the shirt, which says “Am Israel Chai,” showcases the strength of the Jewish people and their willpower The following morning, students walked into school accessorized with Israeli flags, headbands decorated with the Magen David, blue and white face paint, and more Tefilah was filled with Ruach; students prayed loudly and passionately Following Tefila, an assembly involving students of all grades ensued, where everyone sang Hebrew songs and danced with teachers and friends. A video was also played, which showed students stating their favorite parts of Israel upon being asked; most answers consisted of visiting the Kotel.
During lunch, we were provided with a delicious Israeli lunch which included shawarma, pita, and falafel not to mention sauces such as hummus, tahini, and zhug. During community time, each grade participated in a competition of who could create the best Israel-related drawing. Paintings included Jewish flags and Magen Davids. After the activity, we were treated with snow cones. The snow cones were a delicious refresher for all of the crazy activities students were participating in despite the never-ending line.
As the day came to an end, it was apparent that our love for Israel grows stronger each year Celebrating this day was a powerful reminder of our strong connection towards the homeland and the honor we carry in our Jewish identity Am Israel Chai!
Beetlejuice Jr.: A SPOOK-tacular Spring Musical!
By Bina Sragovicz
This year’s upper school spring musical, Beetlejuice Jr., proved to be a SPOOK-tacular success! The over 20-person cast of both middle and high school students performed a total of three performances from April 2 to 7 in the Jordan Alexander Ressler Arts Theater, receiving wonderful reviews from friends, family, and community members alike
The show follows angsty teenager Lydia Deetz, her detached father Charles, and her quirky stepmother Delia as they move into a new house haunted by the recently deceased Adam and Barbara Maitland. Lydia and the Maitlands attempt to spook Charles and Delia into leaving the house, eventually unleashing Beetlejuice, a rambunctious and untrustworthy spirit, to help them after their previously unsuccessful attempts. Boasting energetic group numbers such as “The Whole Being Dead Thing”, moving solos like “Dead Mom” and “Home”, flamboyant costumes, and colorful set design, both ensemble members and lead actors captivated audiences with their spirit and flair
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Beetlejuice Jr. is the last musical of Scheck Hillel’s 2024-2025 theater season, following the exciting and unique productions of Matanot Shelanu (“Our Gifts”), a dynamic talent showcase, and On The Ark, an engaging retelling of the Noah’s Ark story written and composed by lower school music teacher Dr. Michel Klein. As the school year comes to an end, all students involved in Hillel’s Jordan Alexander Ressler Arts Program, including participants in theater, orchestra, band, and the visual arts, have a chance to reflect on the past year’s work and plan for an even better year starting this fall!
College Book Awards
By Jeremy Dejman
On May 22, 2025, the Beit Midrash filled with anticipation as sophomores and juniors gathered alongside faculty members to witness the College Book Award Ceremony. The event, held during Community Time, was a moment of pride not only for the students being honored but also for the faculty and family members who offered them guidance and stood behind them every step of the way. Parents of the award recipients had been informed ahead of time that their child would be receiving a prestigious College Book Award, though they were asked to keep the news a surprise in order to allow student awardees to experience the full impact of being recognized in real time.
The ceremony honored juniors who have shown outstanding commitment to academics, leadership, and service. Sponsored by renowned universities and their alumni, many of whom are also proud alumni of Scheck Hillel, the College Book Awards serve to recognize students who reflect the core values of these colleges. Colleges represented this year included MIT, Yale, Dartmouth, UPENN, Tulane, Yeshiva University, Princeton, Brown, Bowdoin, and many others.
Each student was introduced by a faculty member who spoke about how the recipient embodied the mission and values of the university they were “matched” to. The ceremony highlighted not just academic excellence, but an excellence of character and a deep commitment to one’s community. Among the recipients were Brianna Ackerman, who received the Dartmouth Book Award, Maia Weitzman, who was honored with the UPENN Book Award, and Jaia Herdan, recipient of the Yale Book Award.
For Ackerman, being awarded the Dartmouth Book Award recognized her meaningful involvement in programs such as the Maccabi Tzair initiative and her dedication to leading community service trips. “To me, this award shows that my work in shaping the next generation of Jewish leaders is meaningful and lasting,” she said. Ackerman further expressed that the recognition gives her confidence to pursue more leadership opportunities in college and beyond, especially those tied to her Jewish identity
A Photo of one of Lydia’s Performances - Credit: @scheckhillel on Instagram
Weitzman, whose award from UPENN recognized her dual commitment to her academics and community, spoke about the pride she felt “This book award means that who I am as a student and person is valued It’s not just about grades, but about how we contribute to the world around us,” said Weitzman “It reinforces my desire to continue pushing myself academically and socially. I want to be someone who uplifts others and drives change.” Weitzman further added that “It [the award] made me feel deeply appreciated. Sometimes we don’t realize how much we’re actually doing until someone takes the time to recognize it. I feel honored.”
For Herdan, the message of the Yale Book Award impacted her deeply as someone who led multiple initiatives aimed at improving youth literacy in the community. “Receiving this award is an incredible honor. It shows me that my hard work and passion for inspiring others has a real purpose,” Herdan said. “It’s not just any award. It’s from Yale an institution whose values I truly admire. That makes it even more meaningful.” Herdan also reflected on how the award has affected her views on her future. “This inspires me to keep growing, not just academically but as a person. Before this, I sometimes doubted myself. But now I feel like I can go beyond what I thought was possible.”
After the ceremony, students and their families gathered for refreshments and congratulations. The event was not only a celebration of achievement but also a powerful reminder of the kind of community Scheck Hillel is. It is a community where excellence is recognized, community service is valued, and each student is encouraged to lead. Through the College Book Awards, Scheck Hillel and its partners do more than hand out awards. They spark hope for the future and pass the torch to students who are already on the path to leadership.
What’s Going On In Our Homeland?
By Gabriella Gorin
As the days go by, we Jews continue to push for the return of the hostages still in Gaza. The state of Israel is being asked to end the war in Gaza as hostage talks between Israel and Hamas continue in Doha. Benjamin Netanyahu, the prime minister, is refusing to end the war despite numerous protests from the public. Steve Witkoff, the US Special Envoy to the Midle East, has further explained to mediators that Washington does not plan to force Israel to end the war in Gaza.
As of May 2025, Netanyahu has only agreed to a temporary ceasefire spanning roughly 45 days, beginning with the release of 10 hostages. During this time, Israel will discuss solutions that aim to establish a permanent end to the war. But the war continues on as Hamas rejects Israel’s propositions under the claim that it wants “up-front Israeli commitment”. American, Qatari, and Egyptian mediators continue to look for a solution that works for both sides. While these mediators search for said solution, Israel has pledged to launch a major military operation to reoccupy the Gaza Strip if Hamas does not accept the proposal for a temporary ceasefire.
Israel also waits to determine if the IDF strike targeting Muhammad Sinwar, brother of the now-deceased Yahya Sinwar, resulted in a success. However, as time goes on, their faith in his death wanes. Israel has claimed it would like to expand the war if this continues, though the hostages' families believe it won’t be effective. Netanyahu has yet to agree to Hamas’s proposal of releasing all of the hostages in exchange for the end of the war. His logic stems from the belief that Hamas would still be in power if he were to make that decision. (Continued on Page 10)
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Regarding said hostage releases, Edan Alexander, a 21-yearold Israeli-American hostage, was recently freed from Hamas captivity after 584 days. He credits the inauguration of President Donald Trump to the improvement of conditions in Gaza. His aunt, Sharon Senyor, shared that, “He [Edan] said that since Trump took power his conditions improved. From the moment they started to talk about him, they gave him more food so that he would gain weight.” Alexander mentioned that he was placed in a “VIP tunnel” with a senior Hamas official to serve as both a human shield and to provide him further protection due to his American citizenship He is expected to meet President Trump in person very soon
A dual citizen, Alexander grew up in New Jersey until he was 18 years old and went on to serve in the Golani Unit of the IDF. He was serving in the Golani when he was abducted from his base near the Gaza border in the community of Nirim. He is the first male IDF soldier to be freed by Hamas since the start of the war. Welcome, Edan! We prayed for your return and continue to pray for the return of all our dear hostages.
The Tragic Loss Of Yaron Lischinsky & Sarah Milgrim
By Sarah Coriat & Daniela Kliksberg
On the evening of May 21, 2025, what should’ve been a beautiful and peaceful night for Yaron Lischinsky and Sarah Milgrim turned into a shocking nightmare. Lischinsky, 30, and Milgrim, 26, were enjoying a trip to Washington D.C. when they were shot and killed in an act of hatred in front of the steps of the Capitol Jewish Museum.
The young pair had just left a young diplomats reception, surrounded by colleagues and friends. Lischinsky, a GermanIsraeli, worked in the political department of the Israeli Embassy. Milgrim, an American from Kansas, had only recently received a position at the Israeli Embassy. Lischinsky and Milgrim weren’t just colleagues, however, but rather a couple looking to build a future together. Lischinsky was planning to propose to Milgrim on their upcoming trip to Jerusalem, but those plans were stripped from them in seconds. As the couple were walking towards the Capitol Jewish Museum, the shooter, Elias Rodriguez, approached them. He shot them both in what authorities call an anti-Semitic act of terror. Witnesses report him chanting “Free Palestine” as he was being escorted out of the building by authorities. Rodriguez was charged with two counts of first-degree murder, though prosecutors are looking to sentence him to death.
This tragedy wasn't simply driven by violence but also by hatred Lischinsky and Milgrim were recognized for their kindness and dedication; Lischinsky served in the Israeli Defense Forces and was known for his quiet strength and thoughtful opinions, while Migrim was a passionate Jew committed to studying her culture and promoting education. Those who knew her describe her as someone who was always smiling and learning. Their deaths have devastated not just their families and friends, but also the broader Jewish community. Leaders around the world have condemned the attack and stood up against the atrocity. Authorities nationwide have ramped up security at religious and cultural sites.
Yaron Lischinsky and Sarah Milgrim, two innocent individuals, had their futures stolen from them in an act of pure violence and anti-Semitism. Their story is a heartbreaking reminder to all of how hatred can rip away even the most beautiful lives. It is also a powerful call to speak out against antisemitism, to keep their memories alive, and to live with the same warmth and love the couple spread so freely May we always honor their memory and remember that silence in the face of hate is never an option
A Photo of Edan Alexander Reuniting with his Family - Credit: CNN
A Split Photo of Lischinsky and Milgrim - Credit: Ynetnews
PPhotos hotos
PPhotos hotos
Yuval Raphael: From Survivior To Eurovision Star
By Sophia Gruszka
Israel’s Eurovision representative, 24-year-old Yuval Raphael, captured hearts around the world at the 2025 Eurovision Song Contest in Basel, Switzerland. Her entry, “New Day Will Rise,” earned her second place in the competition overall, and first place among public voters.
Raphael’s journey to Eurovision began on October 7. On October 7, 2023, Raphael was attending the Nova Music festival in southern Israel when Hamas militants launched a brutal attack on the event. She survived by playing dead and hiding under a pile of bodies in a tiny bomb shelter for hours. Only she and 10 others survived from the 40 people who had gone into the shelter with her.
A Photo of Raphael’s Eurovision Performance - Credit: JNS
Prior to this traumatic experience, however, Raphael had already established a career as a singer. She won Israel’s national selection show, HaKokhav HaBa, in 2024. Fluent in Hebrew, English, and French, Raphael combined her life experiences with her music as seen in her Eurovision song.
“New Day Will Rise” resonated deeply with Zionist viewers who saw her as a symbol of peace during times of war. Wrapped in the Israeli flag during the contest, Raphael expressed pride and victory, though she emphasized that true victory for Israel meant the safe return of the 58 hostages still in Gaza.
However, her participation stirred up serious controversy Protests erupted during the contest, and many audience members were waving Palestinian flags and chanting slogans against Israel Some former Eurovision artists criticized the European Broadcasting Union (EBU) for allowing Israel to compete, claiming that it “normalized” the war Still, the EBU stated that Eurovision remains a strictly non-political event focused on unity and music. Despite these difficulties, Raphael handled the situation with humility and grace. She acknowledged this year’s winner, Austria’s JJ, for his talent and hard work over the course of the competition. Her story is not only about music, but rather exists as a tale of resistance and perseverance in the face of violence and hate. Yuval Raphael’s voice has given millions around the world a glimpse of the strength and peace of the Jewish people.
Shavuot: Time To Learn = Always?
By Avichai Meisels
The festival of Shavuot is one of the lesser celebrated holidays of the Jewish calendar. Its predecessor, Pesach, seems to take all the recognition, and our love for a proper Seder dinner evidently outweighs any urges we have toward stuffing our faces with cheesecake. That Shavuot is often ignored is a sorry truth, as the holiday itself is very important. In fact, it is actually a culmination of Pesach and its philosophies.
Shavuot is unique in that, unlike all other festivals mentioned in the Torah, it has no set date. One could easily search the Torah to find that Rosh HaShana is on the first of Tishrei, Yom Kippur on the tenth. But with Shavuot, this is not the case. Instead, one must go through the painful mathematical process of adding “fifty days” to the first of Pesach for determining when Shavuot falls on the calendar, as it is only defined as “seven weeks after Pesach.” Why doesn’t the Torah clearly state “Shavuot is always on this date,” just as it does for all other festivals? If Shavuot is important enough to be a holiday, isn’t it deserving of its own day?
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The date of Shavuot being established in connection to Pesach is indicative of a relationship between the two holidays. A commemoration of the Yetziat Mitzrayim, during which G-d saved us, punished our oppressors, and revealed the extent of His relationship with us, Pesach is essential to Judaism. However, it is only seven weeks later, with the arrival of Shavuot, that the reason for our exodus, as well as what our relationship with G-d is built upon, become clear.
Shavuot is often referred to as “ונתרות ןתמ ןמז” (“the time of the giving of the Torah”) At this point, we were given a system of beneficial laws and philosophies that truly set us apart as a nation and illustrated our connection to G-d This Torah, which is so central to our existence and identity as a people, is not merely a book of rules we are expected to follow It was, and forever will be, a tool for personal and national growth Within it, we find the wisdom needed to live our lives as more thoughtful individuals Thoroughly imbued with values such as chessed (kindness), ruach (spirit), and emet (truth), the Torah lays groundwork for a successful Jewish society It is the true gift of G-d, and our receival of it was the ultimate purpose of Yetziat Mitzrayim
Alongside the traditional values we celebrate such as kindness and truth, one of the more treasured values continuously advocated by the Torah system is education. Throughout all of Jewish history, learning has been thoroughly stressed, and it is clear that our love of learning has led to our nation being characterized as both astute and versatile It is fitting that, as the academic year comes to a close, we are reminded of the Torah and its values, amongst them the importance of learning We must realize that this “learning” is not necessarily limited to what we are taught in our classes With a greater amount of free time in the upcoming break, we will have many opportunities to focus on learning things we are passionate about, find relevance, and believe will help us grow as people As with all values of the Torah, learning is innately positive for mankind Embrace learning (in whatever form it takes), for it is integral to the success of the Jewish people
This Week (5/24)’s Parsha: Behar-Bechukotai
By Tali Kiblisky
This week’s Torah portion is a double reading, and includes Parashat Behar and Parashat Bechukotai. These two portions come from the end of the book of Vayikra, and they focus on trusting God, treating others fairly, and living with faith The word Behar means "on the mountain," which refers to Mount Sinai, where God gave Moses the laws of the Sabbatical year, also called Shemittah. Every seventh year, the land of Israel must rest. Farmers are not allowed to plant or harvest their crops as usual Instead, anyone can come and take what grows naturally This teaches the people to trust God and remember that the land belongs to Him. After the passing of seven Shmittot over the course of 49 years, the Yovel begins on the 50th. During the Yovel year, slaves are set free, and any previously sold land must be returned to its original family This ensures that people do not lose their proper lands and shows how families can restart their lives on a clean slate In addition to detailing the Sabbatical laws, Parashat Behar also teaches the Jewish people about the significance treating people with kindness and honesty, especially in business The Torah commands us not to cheat, not to charge interest on loans, and to never take advantage of others
Parashat Bechukotai begins with a promise. If the people follow God’s laws, He will bless them with peace, good harvests, safety, and happiness in the land of Israel However, if they choose to turn away from Him, the consequences will be severe These consequences include famine, fear, war, and even exile Despite the severity of these warnings, God ends the message of Parashat Bechukotai with hope. He promises the people that even if they must live among their enemies, He will not forget or break His promise to them God will always remain connected to the people of Israel At the end of the Parasha, the Torah teaches how to keep promises made to God It also explains how to give a portion of one’s crops and animals as an act of holiness. This week’s readings remind us that faith is not only about prayer and belief; rather, it is also about our actions. How we treat the land, conduct business, and care for each other all show what it means to live by God’s commandments
Sophomore Launches “Warrior” Bracelets For Israel
By Ami Kattan
Credit: Warriorbracelet.com
By Eva Maleh
Shira Sager, a 10th grader at Scheck Hillel, recently launched a small business known as Warrior Bracelet in order to support Israel and honor heroes within the Jewish community The bracelets each contain meaningful phrases such as “Bring Them Home NOW!” and “Warrior Princess” Additionally, they include an NFC chip that allows one to tap the bracelet to a phone, taking them to a web page that displays a daily story about a soldier, survivor, or other inspiring figure within the Jewish community. One of the most recent daily warriors was Israel’s representative for Eurovision, Yuval Raphael, who received second place in the competition with her song “New Day Will Rise” The bracelets cost $14 90 each and come in singles or bundle packs. All profits go directly to Israeli organizations such as Hatzalah and the Golani Unit of the IDF. To purchase your Warrior Bracelet, scan the QR code to the left! Let’s all show the world what warriors we truly are!
Meat Me At Capas: A Kosher Food Review
Located at 21000 W Dixie Highway in North Miami, Capas Burger has quickly earned a reputation as one of the most reliable and satisfying burger spots Though small in size, this Kosher-certified restaurant offers a menu that is rich in flavor and consistent in its quality, blending classic American comfort food with thoughtful preparation.
Some Images Showcasing the Beauty of Capas - Credit: capasburger com
What sets Capas apart is its clear commitment to using purely fresh ingredients. Their beef is ground daily, and every burger is made fresh to order. The result is a noticeably juicy, well-seasoned patty that holds its own without its flavor needing to be masked by its toppings You can even receive up to three patties on one burger! The buns are soft yet sturdy, the vegetables inside are crisp, and the sauces only add to the burger’s flavor instead of overpowering it
One standout menu item is the Truffle Burger. It is a rich and flavorful option that balances indulgence and simplicity Between the tasty pretzel bun, which is packed with lettuce, pickles, crispy shallots, truffle aioli, and a perfectly cooked patty, this burger tastes elevated whilst not being too overdone The truffle is noticeable yet not overwhelming in its flavor.
Alongside Capas’s tasty burgers are several impressive side dishes, namely the corn ribs These ribs taste nothing like the standard grilled corn you may be used to Instead, the corn is cut into rib-like strips, lightly fried, and seasoned to perfection Paired with these ribs is a delicious truffle aioli (as you can tell, I love their truffle sauce!) The smoky, slightly crunchy, yet juicy bite of these ribs makes them stand out from sides offered at other Kosher food spots in the area. Other sides worth mentioning include Capas’s fries, which are consistently crispy and well-seasoned, and their perfectly golden-brown onion rings, which have a satisfying bite to them. Capas also boasts relatively quick and professional service, with a team of welcoming and efficient staff members. What is unique about the restaurant’s service, however, is its success despite coming from a truck The truck is clean and produces high-quality food The seating area is located in a small, “cutesy” outdoor area next to the truck
Capas is Kosher-certified by the Orthodox Rabbinical Board, making it a highly appreciated find for those observing Kashrut such as myself Open Sunday through Thursday from 12:00 PM to 11:00 PM, Capas Burger is ideal for both casual meals and quick bites It is worth the visit for a good, reliable meal in Miami
Study Smart
By Liv Raviv
Although many students believe neuroscience has almost nothing to do with their everyday lives, it really makes a profound impact on their school lives and how the teenage mind develops overall. One study tip that students should take into consideration is to study for 25 minutes at a time before taking a 5-minute break. After one repeats this for about 4 times, it is advised take a longer, 15-minute break.
This method is known as the Pomodoro Technique. This study technique is proven to boost the focus of students when studying and reduce fatigue. The brain’s prefrontal cortex tires out very easily; taking a break will help this part of the brain function for longer. It can also aid in improving memory and can give one’s brain a chance to breathe while trying to retain and consolidate information, avoiding burnout. After taking a break, the brain releases dopamine, similar to a reward that will boost one forward and push them to want to continue. The brain also goes into a “resting state” during the break, which can help improve creativity. In addition to using this technique, pairing it with spaced repetition can increase the efficiency of studying. Study smarter, not harder!
