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Oh yes, Mrs Kite had the twin daughters Mees Kite and Crunk Kite. We married them off but it wasn’t easy.

Well the Bochurim nowadays don’t care about those things, they want “HEIS”.

Thank you Rabbi Schwartz for seeing me, according to my neighbor Mrs Kite, you’re the best Shadchan in town.

Can you please help my daughter? She can do anything, she makes potato kugel with those crusty corners, never stacks dishes on Shabbos, she’s never missed a Mincha in her life, and her stockings are so thick, they’re bulletproof.

Sorry, don’t know Yiddish, what’s “HEIS“?

Look it up...I’ve seen her resume and she needs a total makeover. That space between her front teeth, you can drive a Hatzola van through it, and her teeth are the color of my Rebbitzen’s honey cake on Rosh Hashanah.

For the past year, I’ve sent 37 Chosson & Kallahs to Katz Dental Group. They whiten the teeth of every Kallah that comes to them with Zoom Whitening, and give complimentary cosmetic consultations, Invisalign and veneer consultations with world renowned Dentists. Call them now at 310-556-5600. Oh yes, one more thing...

Make check out to cash

Ribono Shel Olam, what do we do?

Cleaning, X-Ray, & Exam (regular cost $300)

Yes Rabbi?

by Culinary Creations by Chumie

Dear Reader,

There’s a rhythm to Jewish life in Los Angeles. It starts in September with school applications and early bird High Holiday seating. It builds through the chagim, crests during Chanukah, and by the time we hit Adar, it’s a full sprint through Purim, Pesach cleaning, and yes, tax season.

If it feels like everything important and expensive happens in the same six weeks every spring… you’re not imagining it. That’s why, this week, we’re pausing to ask a question that’s as spiritual as it is financial:

Do we have the faith to cut the check?

It’s not just about taxes or tuition. It’s about that quiet, sometimes lonely moment when we face a bill, a deadline, or an obligation and have to decide whether we believe Hashem will meet us on the other side of our effort. For some, it’s writing a check to the IRS. For others, it’s signing next year’s tuition contract before the raise comes through. Either way, it’s a leap of faith and in today’s economy, that leap is only getting wider.

This article doesn’t claim to solve anything. Instead, it tries to name something many of us feel but rarely say aloud: that even in a community as strong and supportive as ours, the pressure to “make it” is immense. And yet, year after year, somehow, we do. With siyata dishmaya, with late nights and

spreadsheets, with whispered tefillos and quiet courage. We figure it out.

If you’re in that space right now, we hope this week’s cover story makes you feel seen.

You’ll also find a new article on Derech Eretz in everyday life on page 38. It’s a simple reminder that how we treat each other, at home, at work, in the checkout line, says more about our character than any shiur or slogan. We hope it inspires more than just good manners. We hope it sparks conversations at the dinner table, in carpools, and in classrooms.

As always, we want to hear from you. What’s resonating? What’s missing? What stories should we be telling that aren’t being told? Whether it’s an idea for a feature or a one-line thought, we welcome your feedback. Drop us a note, send an email, or flag us down in the produce aisle. Seriously.

Thank you for continuing to read, support, and challenge us to do better each week.

Warmly,

The LA Jewish Home Team

SHABBOS ZEMANIM

Los Angeles, CA:

Shabbat Torah Reading: Emor

Light Candles at: 7:31 PM

Friday, May 16, 2025, Iyar 18, 5785

Shabbat Ends: 8:32 PM

Saturday, May 17, 2025, Iyar 19, 5785

Shabbat Torah Reading: Behar-Bechukotai

Light Candles at: 7:36 PM

Friday, May 23, 2025 Iyar 25, 5785

Shabbat Ends: 8:38 PM

Saturday, May 24, 2025 Iyar 26, 5785

San Francisco, CA:

Shabbat Torah Reading: Emor

Light Candles at: 7:56 PM

Friday, May 16, 2025, Iyar 18, 5785

Shabbat Ends: 8:59 PM

Saturday, May 17, 2025, Iyar 19, 5785

Shabbat Torah Reading: Behar-Bechukotai

Light Candles at: 8:02 PM

Friday, May 23, 2025 Iyar 25, 5785

Shabbat Ends: 9:06 PM

Saturday, May 24, 2025 Iyar 26, 5785

Phoenix, AZ:

Shabbat Torah Reading: Emor

Light Candles at: 7:05 PM

Friday, May 16, 2025, Iyar 18, 5785

Shabbat Ends: 8:05 PM

Saturday, May 17, 2025, Iyar 19, 5785

Shabbat Torah Reading: Behar-Bechukotai

Light Candles at: 7:20 PM

Friday, May 23, 2025 Iyar 25, 5785

Shabbat Ends: 8:20 PM

Saturday, May 24, 2025 Iyar 26, 5785

In Hashem We Trust? Do You Have the Faith to Cut the Check?

David Rogatsky

I. The April Dilemma: Faith, Fear, and the IRS

It was tax season in Los Angeles, and somewhere in Pico-Robertson, a balding accountant with tzitzis tucked under his Costco button-down was sweating bullets over a spreadsheet. On the line with a client (let’s call him “Avi from Beverlywood”), he’s trying to explain why Avi’s kosher meat habit, mezuzah replacement, and Shabbos flowers probably won’t qualify as deductible.

April is brutal. It brings the unholy trinity of expenses: the IRS, the registrar’s office at your kids’ Jewish day school, and the butcher who just casually charged $210 for a tray of lamb chops. Add to that the cost of cleaning for Pesach, buying your fifth Afikoman gift, and making sure your toddler’s yarmulke matches his seersucker suit for the Pesach program, and suddenly “In Hashem we trust” becomes less a motto and more a white-knuckled prayer of desperation. And here we are in May, the aftermath, subtly peppering your buddy at shul with questions to find out if you’re the only one who’s holding on by a thin strand.

But beneath the bills and budget spreadsheets lies a spiritual battleground. That’s what this article is really about. Because when you’re staring down a $40,000 tuition tab with three W-2s and a checking account that’s crying uncle, the real question isn’t just how you’re going to pay.

It’s whether you believe Hashem will make a way, or in other words, if you have the faith to cut the check.

II. Rabbi Rietti and the Check Heard ‘Round the World

III. The Numbers Game: Millennials, Money, and the Myth of “Hard Work”

IV. Parnassah and the Pit: Emunah in the Age of Financial Anxiety

The first time I heard the phrase “Do you have the faith to cut the check?” it stopped me mid-scroll like a car crash on Pico. It wasn’t a snarky TikTok or another overpriced “growth mindset” guru. It was Rabbi Jonathan Rietti. British-accented, master educator, and one of the few kiruv personalities who can quote both Tehillim and Tony Robbins without sounding like a parody.

The idea is deceptively simple. You’re staring at a bill—maybe tuition, maybe taxes, maybe tzedakah. You don’t have it. Or you barely have it. And yet, you write the check. Not because it makes fiscal sense, but because your emunah tells you that Hashem will catch you on the other side.

Rietti has said versions of this in lectures for years, often quoting the pasuk: “U’vchanuni na b’zot…” i.e. “Test Me in this,” says Hashem in Malachi, referring specifically to giving tithes and tzedakah. It’s one of the only places in Torah where we’re told to test G-d. Give, and He’ll give back. Not metaphorically, materially.

But what does that mean in 2025, when the check we’re cutting isn’t just to the yeshiva or IRS, but also to L.A. landlords, mechanics, and the inflation powers that be?

Let’s dispense with one myth right now: the idea that today’s young Jewish parents just need to “work harder” or stop buying Starbucks. Oprah Winfrey once claimed her generation succeeded because they had better work ethic. Instagram clapped back with something far more convincing: math.

In 1984, the median home cost was roughly 3.5x the average income. Today, it’s over 7x. Wages have crawled; home prices have launched. Since 1970:

• Home prices have increased 1,608%.

• College tuition is up over 1,400%.

• Childcare costs have tripled.

• Median income? Up just 15% after inflation.

And we wonder why a 30-something father in Hancock Park with four kids and two jobs is stress-biting his nails into oblivion.

For Orthodox Jews, this reality is multiplied. Not figuratively. Literally.

Between kosher food premiums, tuition for multiple kids (which can easily cross six figures annually), the cost of religious holidays, modest fashion requirements, and increased housing needs due to larger families, the average frum family is budgeting for a lifestyle that would bankrupt their secular counterparts.

So why aren’t we all screaming into the void?

Because we believe in something bigger.

Let’s talk about the elephant in the room: anxiety. Not the “I forgot to reply to that WhatsApp” kind. The real stuff. The pit-of-your-stomach, “What if I can’t make payroll?” kind. The “How will I face my wife if I can’t send our son back to school next year?” kind.

This isn’t hypothetical. It’s the lived experience of thousands of men, especially in our community, who are raised to believe they must simultaneously be providers, spiritual leaders, and emotionally available husbands, all while existing in a system that offers no margin for error.

One young father from Valley Village put it to me like this:

“There’s a weird guilt that comes with making just enough. I’m not poor. But I’m not rich enough to feel comfortable. Every year, I make more money. And every year, I feel poorer. I can’t breathe. I feel like I’m constantly apologizing to my kids and my wife, ‘not this year,’ ‘maybe next year.’ And I love Hashem, but sometimes it feels like I’m being crushed.”

This man isn’t alone. According to Pew Research, religious Americans, particularly observant Jews, are among the most likely to report financial stress despite stable income. Why? Because “just making it” doesn’t work when your bare minimum includes full-time Jewish schooling for 5+ kids, kosher meat, simchas, and shul security.

V. From the Torah to TurboTax: Halachic Obligations and Modern Burdens

We’re commanded to give ma’aser, to support yeshivos, to be yirei shamayim in business. We’re told that “Dina d’malchusa dina”—the law of the land is law. Which means taxes? Yeah. Those too.

But is the Torah cruel? Does it set us up for burnout?

Hardly.

Halacha, in its infinite nuance, recognizes capacity. The Shulchan Aruch never commands you to bankrupt yourself for a mitzvah. And yet, there’s that tension. Between halachic boundaries and the Chassidic ideal of bitachon b’li gevul - faith without limits.

Rabbi Nachman of Breslov famously said:

“The main test in life is money.”

Not Torah knowledge. Not how many Daf Yomi pages you can flip in a day. Money. Why? Because it reveals your heart. Your fears. Your control issues. Your willingness, or unwillingness, to let go.

VI. The Tuition Trap: Do We Even Have a Choice?

According to internal figures from Jewish day schools in L.A., tuition fees average between $18,000 and $30,000 per child per year—and that doesn’t include books, trips, or the infamous “registration fees” that arrive the same week as your tax bill and Pesach shopping.

Rabbi Arye Suffrin of YULA explained it bluntly:

“Without fundraising, tuition wouldn’t cover the expense of any school. We have to operate on razor-thin margins. We’re doing our best—but it’s expensive.”

YULA operates with over 100 staff members, dozens of sports teams and clubs, and a sprawling facility. It’s not luxury, it’s a necessity for the kids that go there and for the 100+ families supported by their payroll. Still, for a family with four or more kids, the math stops making sense around kid #3.

So, if the schools need the bread and, as we’re outlining, not everyone can make it happen, what do parents do?

They hustle. They borrow. They cry. They strategize like generals in wartime, squeezing blood from stone and praying their credit card doesn’t bounce at the butcher. They sit through humiliating financial aid interviews. They fudge numbers. They cut corners. Some even consider moving out of state, until they remember there’s no kosher bakery in Tulsa.

And yet, every year, they cut the check.

VII. The Burden of the Breadwinner: Silent Sacrifices, Unspoken Pain

There’s a reason the Gemara says “Parnassah is as difficult as the splitting of the sea.” It’s not just poetic.

The frum man in L.A. today is often living a dual life. To the outside world, he’s a regular guy—a programmer, a lawyer, a real estate agent. But underneath the kippah is a soul tormented by the fear that he’s failing as a provider. Failing as a husband. Failing as a Jew.

He doesn’t talk about it at shul. He can’t afford therapy. He’s too ashamed to tell his wife he’s drowning. So he pulls a 12-hour day, comes home to make Havdalah, smiles through his daughter’s Dvar Torah, and wonders if maybe, just maybe, he’s doing enough.

And just to twist the knife a little

deeper, let’s not forget that in Los Angeles, tax season doesn’t even end in April. Thanks to the fires, the government granted an “extension.” But it’s a trap. Because while the paperwork may get delayed, the pressure doesn’t. The countdown just shifts. People file extensions, not relief. The sleepless nights and credit card games continue, just with a new expiration date.

VIII. The Upside Down: When Faith Defies Logic

Now here’s the wild part.

Despite all of this, despite the tears, the overdrafts, the frum community is thriving. Schools are full. Shuls are packed. There’s joy, vibrancy, and an unmistakable sense that Hashem is present.

Because somehow, against all odds, the money does come. Maybe not always how we expected. Maybe not always cleanly. But the stories are legion:

• The donor who shows up the week before the eviction.

• The unexpected tax return.

• The freelance gig that lands (after davening) with a stranger who needed help with his website.

• The envelope of cash tucked anonymously into a shul mailbox. This isn’t prosperity gospel. It’s not “give and get rich.” It’s the deeper truth of Torah: You were never in control to begin with.

IX. What Now?

Community, Courage, and Course Correction

So what do we do?

For starters, we get honest. About the burden. About the broken systems. About the shame. We speak openly, in articles, at shul, with each other, about the crushing cost of Jewish life in

America, and especially in Los Angeles.

We demand transparency from schools. No more hidden fees. No more registration during Pesach week. No more financial aid committees staffed like IRS audits.

We support one another. If you’ve been blessed with wealth, don’t just sponsor a kiddush. Sponsor a family. Quietly. Dignified. As tzedakah was meant to be.

And above all, we cut the check with faith. Not recklessly. But righteously. Not because we’re sure it will all work out, but because we trust that Hashem is watching. He knows our hearts. He counts our sacrifices in ways the IRS never could.

X. Conclusion: The Final Test

Let’s be real.

Cutting that check, whether for tuition, taxes, or tzedakah, may feel like the most terrifying thing you’ll do this year. But in that moment, you’re not just a provider or a taxpayer. You’re an avodah-performing Jew, holding a pen like a sword, declaring to the world and to Hashem:

“You gave me this. I’m giving it back. I trust You to fill in the rest.”

Because the truth is, Hashem never asked us to make it make sense. He asked us to believe. He asked us to try. He asked us to write the check with faith.

So… do you?

Farbreng with The Kosher Gang: The Sandwich Sendoff

Schwartz, Schnitzly, & Saying Farewell to Levi

Wow! I can’t believe it’s already Lag B’Omer! Right before Sefira started, in the car on my way to my pre-Omer haircut, I put a video up on TikTok reminding all the guys to do the same. My “Jewish PSA” quickly shot up to 20,000 views. I can’t believe that was already over a month ago!

This week’s food line-up was both savory and satiating..but also a little bittersweet. This will be our last food review with music artist and digital marketing strategist, Levi Paris. We’ve had an incredible time as a duo, and I’m truly grateful for the ride.

As for the Kosher Gang? We’re just getting started. You can expect even more fire kosher food reviews, surprise guests, and exciting twists in the weeks to come. The flavor train’s racing full steam ahead. I do want to wish Levi the absolute best as he embarks on his next journey, with added focus on his career as a music artist and growing his company, Paris Media. Levi, tell us more about what’s next for you!

“As the Kosher Gang knows so well, my backflip video went viral, accumulating over 200,000 views on social media, where my spontaneous song ‘SHALOM MOSHIACH NOW’ took the Jewish community by storm.”

“With a Torah-based purpose and a strong background in digital marketing, I built a loyal community of 40,000+ followers across social media in just a few years as a recent Yeshiva University graduate. I’ve generated over 10,000,000 views by marketing my songs—like YAMAKA and

David Greenberg is a music industry professional, songwriter, and content creator. You can follow him @WeWantMoschiachNow on TikTok, IG, and YouTube. Hear his kosher pop music at soundcloud.com/WeWantMoschiachNow. For all inquiries: WeWantMoschiachNow@thelajewishhome.com

By David Greenberg and Levi Paris

Hashem—through highlighting the positive attributes of Judaism as a kosher content creator and independent music artist.”

Wow! Well, from myself and on behalf of all the Kosher Gang readers, we wish you nothing but good news and much Hatzlocho!

Now let’s talk turkey. Or should I say… pastrami? This week we tackled some epic sandwiches—from the massive Reuben at Schwartz Deli to the most fire Schnitzel Baguette from Schnitzly. We’ve got a lot to unpack!

So without further ado—let’s get to the review!

Hey! Look at that! I’m a poet and didn’t even know it.

I guess I’m so fly, I don’t even have to try… okay, I’m done. Our first stop: Schwartz Deli.

Levi Paris is a music artist, marketing strategist, and content creator. Follow him on all platforms @LeviParisMusic. Search “Levi Paris” on Spotify to listen to his music. For all inquiries: ParisMedia@TheLaJewishHome.com

May the Schwartz Be With You

Especially If You Like Your Meat Stacked and Smoked. Buns, Baguettes, and a Bittersweet Bite

I did not want to like Schwartz Deli & BBQ, located at 8820 W Pico Blvd. The New Yorker in me had a prejudice that made me want this to be a bad review before we even got to the restaurant.

Everybody knows by now I’m standing on business when it comes to my stance that LA kosher food is better than NY kosher food. I just couldn’t accept that NY deli could be in the same ballpark out here. I’m really glad I turned out to be wrong this time. Thick, juicy cuts of pastrami sandwiched between two slices of rye with coleslaw and salad. It’s classic. Iconic, even!

Without exaggeration, this was perhaps the best meal we’ve eaten together. Schwartz Deli is no joke.

“This type of food makes me proud to be an American Jew. Game over. Pico’s taking over. Wow. The Pulled BBQ Beef Sandwich—super satisfying. Really flavorful. Really moist, but the bun is holding together nicely! I’m an even bigger fan of the pastrami, but the Pulled BBQ Beef Sandwich was really doing it for me.”

“I think this is the best NY-style pastrami sandwich you can get in LA. I’m a big fan of New York cuisine, and Schwartz Deli does it right!”

That Pulled Barbecue Beef sandwich was unforgettable. As someone who loves barbecue and grew up eating at some renowned spots in the wider world, this was a taste I forgot how much I missed. And most importantly, it was done right! Pure comfort with every bite.

Coupled with some thick, crispy fries, this sandwich transported me back to my childhood. While I was time-traveling, Schwartz also stopped by my grandma’s house and picked up some matzo ball soup. It really was worthy of such praise—but my grandma’s was still better. Sorry, not sorry.

When I first got to LA—literally Day 1—I was still recovering from COVID. The flight really wore me out, so I ordered some matzo ball soup from Schwartz. Two hours later, my health was fully revived. The proof is in the pudding. This matzo ball is the real deal.

“That matzo ball was more like a ‘Monster Ball’… it was never-ending! I’m telling you, this is a true matzo ball soup. The chicken was a nice touch. It tasted like home to me.”

We definitely cannot forget the beef jerky. I love beef jerky. Great kosher beef jerky is out there, but I don’t come across it too often. This jerky was smoky, soft, and perfectly tender.

It would make the perfect snack—or maybe even a lunch on the go. Definitely a solid protein boost. This is actually 10 out of 10 jerky in my humble opinion. I could see myself swinging by just for a couple of packs now and then.

“This felt like one of the only jerkies I could eat without getting stuck in my teeth. It was very soft, very fresh, and pleasingly smoky. In terms of kosher jerky, this is up there with the best of them.”

I do have to be honest with the people and say that spending $40 on a sandwich is obviously not an everyday type of meal.

But let’s be real. We probably shouldn’t be eating Reubens every day anyway.

Maybe Schwartz Deli’s pricing is secretly a public health service… they’re out here slinging sandwiches and saving lives!

In all seriousness though, it’s definitely pricey—but we never rate based on price. Without a shadow of a doubt, this was an incredible meal.

Maybe the best overall meal experience we’ve ever reviewed. So, I’m giving Schwartz Deli & BBQ an extremely well-deserved 92 out of 100.

“This is probably one of my favorite restaurants we’ve been to out of all our reviews. Based purely on taste and dining experience alone… I’m giving Schwartz Deli & BBQ a 9.5/10.”

Wow! Nothing we’ve had has even come close to that for you. That’s unheard of. That’s your highest score yet!

“I’d probably never pay this amount for a dish, at least not on a regular basis. It might not be in my usual budget, but when the mood is right—Schwartz is where it’s at. You’ll know I’m loaded when you start seeing me post Schwartz on my Instagram Stories more often. Still—my 9.5/10 tells you everything you need to know. It was that good.”

This is the kind of meal that stays with you—in a special place in your heart. No, I’m not talking about cholesterol… I mean this is a meal I’ll remember forever.

Another meal I’m sure never to forget? Our next one—since it’s Levi’s final review. But it’s also a dinner spot I absolutely love… and a place Levi had never tried before!

Schwartz Deli & BBQ

@LeviParisMusic Hot Take: 9.5/10

@WeWantMoschiachNow Overall Score: 92 out of 100

— Our Final Feast at Schnitzly

Schnitzly, located at 9216 W Pico Blvd, was a regular stop for me in my first few weeks of living in LA. Why, you ask? The store hours were the biggest attraction. Schnitzly is one of the latest-open kosher spots on Pico.

I work late hours, and often I don’t feel like cooking dinner at midnight. Stopping at Schnitzly just made life easy. So needless to say—I’m very familiar with their menu.

Undoubtedly, Schnitzly stays true to its namesake. The schnitzel baguette is, in my opinion, the best menu item—which is high praise, because the menu overall is very solid for what it is.

I also love their chicken nuggets meal. The BBQ nuggets are excellent for a late-night nosh. I often order their grilled chicken plate as a bi-weekly habit. I usually get the side salad and white rice—a very hearty plate. Their burgers are pretty good too.

On over 100 different occasions, I’ve actually never had a bad meal here.

“Who orders a burger at a place called Schnitzly? Me, that’s who. I got the Pro Burger: a 1/3 lb. burger topped with pastrami, a sunny-side up egg, onion rings, and avocado. If your mouth is watering right now… I too heard that description and couldn’t resist.”

“Something I love about a place like Schnitzly—they had sauce options! Thank the Lord! As our readers know by now, I like my sauces. So I applied them generously. Three bites in is where the bop comes in. Three bites in..OMG! It was so good. I had to keep eating! The onion rings, with the pastrami, and the fried egg. The quality sauces. This flavor combo was really nice for my palate.”

Wow! That sounds really good—and it smelled really good too!

I got the California Baguette, which is a classic schnitzel with fries inside, along with any other toppings you want. I got lettuce, tomato, onion, and avocado.

Add a little garlic mayo, olive oil, and green shug from their extensive sauce menu, and the result is heavenly. Junk food? For sure. But it seems to be made with high-quality ingredients, and it’s striving to be the best version of itself. Mission accomplished. All for about $25.

Schnitzly is the best version of what it is. That’s the core of what makes it great. It knows what it wants to be and it doesn’t try to be what it’s not.

This is going to be a high score for a whole different reason than usual—but still in the same ballpark as some of the greatest.

Is it fast food or fast casual? It’s not fine dining, but the lines get blurred in a nice way that keeps me coming back. The food is tasty, quick, and they’re open late.

With a nice selection, I never get bored. So for all these reasons and even more, I’m giving Schnitzly a 91 out of 100.

What about you, Levi? For the final time, tell us how you feel about Schnitzly, bro!

“Schnitzly is very good. I had Schnitzly for the first time earlier this week at a meeting with you and LA Jewish Home Editor-in-Chief David Rogatsky. I got a schnitzel plate that day and I was like, ‘Dang, that was bussin’!’ I’m gonna have to give this a solid 8.5/10 on the Levi Kosher Food Scale. For the last time: that was my genuine flavor judgment.”

No way! An 8.5 is pretty substantial on the Levi Scale! Definitely going out with a bang and not a whimper. B”H, this has been a great experience eating all of this food with you, bro, and I wish you so much success in everything you do next.

It’s important to remember one of the greatest gifts we’ve been given is the gift of choice,the power of free will.

It’s always better when you choose to look at every experience with gratitude.

So we shouldn’t be sad because it’s over, we should be happy that it happened at all.

“Yes! And for those wondering: I have decided to leave the LA Jewish Home to pursue my music career and help businesses grow their brand awareness through Paris Media. Currently, I’m recording new music every day and building a deep catalog for my next album. For anyone looking to enhance their brand awareness and following on social media, reach out to ParisMarketing007@gmail.com.”

Well, I hope everything goes well for you on this next adventure, and I know the Kosher Gang does too!

Schnitzly

@LeviParisMusic Hot Take: 8.5/10

@WeWantMoschiachNow Overall Score: 91 out of 100

4 Smokin’ Sandwiches and 4 Super-High Scores! What a memorable edition this has been! We wish Levi much Hatzlacho and many brachos in his next chapter. As for the Kosher Gang? Things are only heating up. Stay tuned: Next Edition - We’re kicking off what we hope will become an LA Jewish Home annual event; We’re crowning the #1 Kosher Pizza in LA, 2025.

Yoel’s Lemonade Stand

Heavenly Constraints:

The Orthodox Marketer’s Creative Advantage

My friend Levy Lieberman once told me that keeping kosher wasn’t a burden but a daily reminder of consciousness. “Justin,” he said, “every bite I take requires a moment of consideration. Do you have any idea how rare thoughtfulness is in this machine-gunned world of ours?”

I’ve been thinking about Levy’s wisdom lately in relation to Orthodox Jewish business owners and their marketing challenges.

The conventional wisdom suggests you’re at a disadvantage. After all, how can you compete when your marketing must answer to both earthly clients and heavenly authority?

What magnificent nonsense.

The truth is precisely the opposite. Your constraints are your greatest creative asset. The boundaries of halacha don’t limit your marketing; they focus it with laser precision.

Consider this: I once watched an art director spend three days staring at a blank page because the client had given him “complete creative freedom.” Meanwhile, his colleague—working under the tyranny of a half-page ad with specific product claims to include—had finished by lunchtime. Why? Because limitations define the playing field. They tell you where to dig.

Thanks to AI most marketers today suffer from the paralysis of infinite possibilities. They can show anything, say anything, promise anything. The result isn’t liberation but a wasteland of interchangeable messages that all sound eerily alike, as if written by the same desperate fellow who’s had too much coffee and too little sleep. You, my kosher friend, have been spared this affliction.

When certain visual approaches are forbidden, you must become a master of language.

When exaggeration is prohibited as g’neivat da’at, you must find genuine product advantages to highlight. When you can’t operate on Shabbat, you must create such anticipation for Sunday that custom-

ers can hardly sleep Saturday night.

In the suffocating sameness of modern marketing, these distinctions aren’t handicaps. They’re competitive advantages.

I’ve noticed that the most memorable ads are rarely the ones with the biggest budgets or fewest restrictions. They’re the ones created by people who understood that creativity thrives within boundaries, not despite them.

The sonnet’s fourteen lines. The haiku’s seventeen syllables. The kosher kitchen’s separate dishes. All constraints that produce transcendent results.

The real problem with most marketing isn’t that it’s too restricted but that it’s not restricted enough. It lacks the discipline of thoughtful limitation. It hasn’t had to answer to a higher authority than quarterly profits.

The Orthodox marketer asks: “Is this honest? Does this uphold our values? Would this make the Almighty proud?” These questions produce marketing that resonates on a human level precisely because they acknowledge that both seller and buyer are more than economic units in a commercial transaction.

You’re not just selling products; you’re participating in the grand tradition of ethical commerce that stretches back to ancient marketplaces where our ancestors traded with integrity and purpose.

That statement resonates with more people than you might imagine, even those who’ve never heard of Havdalah.

So embrace your constraints. Celebrate them. Use them as creative catalysts.

In a world drowning in marketing that means less and less, yours can mean more. Not despite your limitations, but because of them.

After all, as Levy would remind us, thoughtfulness is a rare and precious commodity these days. In kosher kitchens and in marketing departments alike.

agency called Genius Scouts. He can be contacted at justin@geniusscouts.com

LET’$ Grow WIth Lorenzo

Orthodox Money Matters: When “Business as Usual” Isn’t

Your Business

Lorenzo Nourafchan

The typical financial advisor isn’t thinking about the peculiar financial choreography required of Orthodox Jewish business owners. His advice, while technically sound, resembles a suit bought off the rack: serviceable but missing the crucial adjustments that make it truly fit your circumstances.

The Orthodox business owner faces a two-ledger existence: one according to secular accounting principles and another governed by halachic considerations. The rules around ribbit (interest), loans between Jews, and the complexities of partnerships don’t appear in standard MBA curricula. Yet they form the invisible architecture of your financial decisions. A business structure that doesn’t accommodate these considerations is like a beautiful house built on a foundation of pudding.

Consider Shabbos, that magnificent 25-hour pause button on commerce. Most business models assume seven operational days or at least a flexible schedule that can accommodate Sunday rushes or Friday evening windfalls.

Your business, however, experiences a weekly mini-shutdown that would give most MBAs heart palpitations. This doesn’t have to be a defect though. It can become a feature.

For example: I once watched a brilliant Orthodox jeweler in New York turn his Shabbos limitations into a defining advantage. While competitors scrambled for Saturday foot traffic, he invested those resources in building relationships with high-value clients who appreciated scheduled, unrushed appointments earlier in the week. His Shabbos observance became a mark of distinction rather than limitation. He wasn’t competing for business; he was selecting his clientele.

Then there’s the matter of Jewish holidays – not merely the High Holidays but the full calendar of festivals and fasts that punctuate the year. Your cash flow chart looks less like a smooth curve and more like an EKG reading during a particularly exciting baseball game. Most financial planners would suggest “normalizing” your business schedule. I suggest instead designing your financial

strategy around these rhythms rather than despite them.

It’s for this reason that I strongly advise my Orthodox business clients to maintain multiple funds beyond the conventional operating and reserve accounts – there might be maaser (tithing) accounts, gemach (free loan) reserves, and festival preparation funds.

This approach isn’t financial inefficiency; it’s a different definition of what money is for.

The mainstream financial advisors treats money as an end rather than a means. Their advice centers on accumulation strategies, as if the point of business were simply to generate larger piles of currency.

The Orthodox perspective recognizes money as a tool for conducting a meaningful life according to specific values. Your financial strategy should reflect this understanding.

Don’t make the mistake of compartmentalizing – treating your Orthodox practices as separate from your business strategy. Integration is the key. Your observance isn’t something your business must work around; it’s the foundation upon which your business should be built.

The truly successful Orthodox business owner doesn’t succeed despite religious obligations but because these obligations provide a framework for principled decision-making.

You find this approach in conventional business wisdom because conventional business wisdom isn’t written for unconventional businesspeople.

So the next time a financial advisor gives you that puzzled look when you explain your business constraints, remember: you’re not failing to adapt to business realities – you’re operating according to a higher and more comprehensive authority than those recognized by the Wall Street Journal.

Justin Oberman is the Marketing Director and Marketing Editor of the LA Jewish Home and is the Co-Founder of a personal branding ad

Justin Oberman

Israel’s Gaza Strategy: Go Hard or Go Nowhere

In a drastic change of its strategy in Gaza, the Israeli government has approved a plan that includes full military reoccupation of the territory, population relocation, and control over humanitarian aid. The move is described by officials as essential to dismantling Hamas and securing Israeli borders. It comes after the appointment of new military chief of staff, Eyal Zamir, who took over in early March.

It was clear from the beginning of the military campaign that “the only way to eradicate Hamas, militarily and governmentally, is to take over Gaza and to conquer the area and destroy them,” said Amir Avivi, founder of the Israel Defense and Security Forum think tank and a former deputy commander of Israel’s forces in Gaza.

For the first time since the 2005 disengagement, Israel has greenlit a plan to fully reoccupy the Gaza Strip. The military strategy involves tens of thousands of reservists, a long-term ground presence, and the creation of “sterile zones” meant to relocate civilians from large areas in both northern and southern Gaza. Israeli officials say the goal is to eliminate Hamas’s ability to govern or wage war.

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said Israel would retain a presence in areas it seizes in Gaza and would rely on the tens of thousands of reservists the military would call up as part of the offensive.

“One thing will be clear—they’re not going in and out,” Netanyahu said in a video posted to his X account on Monday, suggesting that Israeli troops wouldn’t quickly withdraw from cleared areas as they did in the first ground operation after the Oct. 7 Hamas-led attacks in 2023.

The IDF has already established the “Morag Corridor” in southern Gaza, adding to existing Netzarim and Philadelphi corridors. These barriers effectively divide Gaza into restricted zones, making movement within the Strip nearly impossible. Officials say the corridors are tactical tools to isolate Hamas fighters.

Israel is also controlling the flow of humanitarian aid into Gaza because Hamas was diverting it for military purposes, such as constructing tunnels and manufacturing weapons.

One of the most contentious implications of the plan is its impact on the remaining Israeli hostages still held in Gaza by Hamas. With intensified military operations and territory-wide offensives, the concern is that the hostages’ lives may be placed in even greater danger.

Others have expressed concern that this

approach may eliminate incentives for Hamas to negotiate or preserve the hostages’ safety. As Israel tightens its grip on Gaza, there is growing fear that Hamas could use the hostages as human shields, disperse them to more secretive locations, or even execute them in retaliation.

Families of the hostages have voiced mixed emotions—some support the hardline approach, while others plead for a pause in fighting to prioritize their loved ones’ safe return. A former IDF intelligence official warned, “Every missile that lands risks closing the door on negotiations. A total military approach may secure territory, but it could cost lives we’re trying to save.”

News of this plan has sparked strong emotions among Israeli soldiers and their families, many of whom believed the most intense phases of the war had passed. With thousands of reservists being called up again for duty, there is growing fatigue across Israeli society.

In interviews with Haaretz and Israel Hayom, some soldiers expressed quiet determination, reaffirming their commitment to national defense. “We’ll go if we’re needed, no question,” said a reservist from the Golani Brigade. “But there’s no denying people are tired—physically, emotionally, and morally.”

The Israeli government cites two primary reasons: national security and political survival. After the October 2023 Hamas attacks, public pressure has mounted for a permanent solution that neutralizes Gaza as a threat. Many observers point out that Netanyahu is only moving forward now because Trump is President, a move many believe would have been blocked under President Biden’s tenure.

Success will turn on how it’s defined. If the goal is to eliminate Hamas militarily and reassert control over Gaza, then the plan may achieve that. The IDF has already dismantled many of Hamas’s tunnel networks and weapons caches, and occupying the territory could prevent future large-scale rocket attacks. It is unclear what political structure will replace Hamas.

“There’s no intention to hold this territory forever, there’s a desire to create operational control,” said Yaron Buskila, a lieutenant colonel in Israel’s military reserves and chief executive of the Israel Defense and Security Forum. “Operational control means you conquer territory and create military op-

erational control so you can reach any point in the area, such that you make a terror group ineffective.”

Israel’s decision to reoccupy Gaza reflects a hard-earned lesson: that temporary operations and international pressure alone cannot neutralize a terrorist threat entrenched within civilian infrastructure. After enduring the horrors of the October 7th attacks, the Israeli government is acting decisively to ensure that such atrocities can never happen again.

While the plan carries undeniable risks and heavy burdens, it is rooted in the fundamental duty of any sovereign nation—to pro-

tect its citizens. The reoccupation, creation of security corridors, and control over humanitarian aid are all part of a broader effort to dismantle Hamas’s military machine while minimizing long-term civilian casualties. Success will depend on maintaining operational control, securing the hostages, and ultimately paving the way for a post-Hamas future that offers true peace and long term stability to the Israelis.

Lou Shapiro is a criminal defense attorney-certified specialist and legal analyst, but most importantly, makes the end-of-shul announcements at Adas Torah. He can be reached at LouisJShapiro@gmail. com.

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Nava Miller, Five Towns

Kiddush Hashem & Moral Identity Fusion

Parshat Emor

The In Parshat Emor, we encounter various commandments regarding sanctification, sacrifices and observance of the holidays. However, one of the seminal tenants of Judaism and morality is also presented, the mitzvah of not desecrating the name of Hashem. Through the lens of the psychological concept of moral identity fusion, we are provided a meaningful opportunity to explore this mitzvah, better known as Kiddush Hashem.

Moral identify fusion is the notion that individuals integrate their personal identity with a group’s higher moral values, leading to a deeper and more meaningful connection with a greater purpose. This concept has become popularized in modern psychology as the explanation of costly self-sacrifice for a greater good. Individuals with high levels of this skill lead more productive, less distressed, and more meaningful lives.

In this week’s parsha the passuk states. “…do not desecrate My holy name. And I shall be sanctified in the midst of the children of Israel. I am Hashem who sanctifies you.” (Vayikra 22:33). This passuk provides us the commandment for the sanctification of Hashem’s name through our words, Kiddush Hashem. However, Chazal tell us that Kiddush Hashem goes beyond mere words but towards our actions and how we behave. The Gemara in Yoma 86a tells us that we must “make the name of Hashem beloved to others though us.” Kiddush Hashem, the sanctification of God’s name, is exemplified when individuals uphold moral principles even in challenging circumstances.

Recent research suggests that self-sacrifice such holding a moral stance, when money could be made, when your values are tested, or when no one else is watching stems from high levels of religious moral identity fusion. Taking this mitzvah to its most extreme is the idea of dying for Kiddush Hashem. Holding so true to our moral values of connectedness with Hashem that we are willing to complete the ultimate self-sacrifice.

Rabbi Lord Jonathan Sacks writes in his Ten Paths to Hashem, “When we behave in such a way as to evoke admiration for Judaism as a faith and a way of life, which is a Kiddush Hashem, a sanctification of God’s name. When we do the opposite – when we betray that faith and way of life, causing people to have contempt for the God of Israel –that is a chilul Hashem, a desecration of

God’s name.” Our religious moral identity fusion provides a shining light of Judaism to the world.

Three tips to increase religious moral identity fusion:

1. Integrity in Actions: Act with honesty, kindness, and fairness in all interactions, demonstrating ethical conduct that reflects positively on your community and faith.

2. Positive Representation: Be mindful of how your words and actions reflect on your Jews, striving to be a positive ambassador for Hashem.

3. Live by Example: Lead a life that embodies the moral values and principles of the Torah, serving as a role model for others and fostering a sense of moral identity fusion.

Tailoring your message to the individual shows that you value them enough to speak their language. The Haggadah’s response to each son demonstrates the art of tailoring communication and guidance to meet the needs of the individual. Similarly, in our interactions with others, whether in parenting, teaching, or mentoring roles, adjusting our approach to resonate with each person individually fosters understanding, connection, and growth. In a world full of noise, personalized communication is the signal that breaks through. May we learn from the lessons of the Haggadah to understand the unique needs and perspectives of all people by learning to speak their language.

Elan Javanfard, M.A., L.M.F.T. is a Consulting Psychotherapist focused on behavioral health redesign, a Professor of Psychology at Pepperdine University, & a lecturer related to Mindfulness, Evidence-Based Practices, and Suicide Prevention. Elan is the author of Psycho-Spiritual Insights: Exploring Parasha & Psychology, a weekly blog. He lives in the Los Angeles Pico Robertson community with his wife and three children and can be reached at Elan.Javanfard@gmail.com.

Stories to Inspire

When a Wrong Number Became Hashem’s Answer

Daniel Agalar

This The following story was shared by Rabbi Yitzchok Aryeh Epstein of Lakewood, NJ, and offers a powerful glimpse into how precisely Hashem runs the world.

Rabbi Epstein told the story about his nephew, a young married man living in Israel. He spends his days learning Torah in kollel and, once a week, volunteers for a special outreach program. Together with others, he visits Jews who are still finding their way back to tradition and studies with them, hoping to inspire them to embrace a Torah lifestyle.

Usually, on his way to this program, his nephew calls Rabbi Epstein. They discuss the weekly Torah portion or share uplifting stories — many of which Rabbi Epstein later shares with others.

But one day, when his nephew called, Rabbi Epstein was busy and couldn’t answer. Later, when he remembered, he decided to call back.

He dialed the familiar number — one he had used countless times. But this time, something strange happened.

A man answered. His voice was unfamiliar.

“Shalom — who is this?” the man said.

Rabbi Epstein thought he must have dialed incorrectly and hung up. He carefully redialed, checking each digit. But again, the same voice answered.

“This is a taxi service in Rechovot. You have the wrong number.”

Confused, Rabbi Epstein decided to call his sister — his nephew’s mother-in-law — to find out what was going on.

She immediately began laughing.

“You don’t know the story yet?” she asked, and began to explain.

Just a few days earlier, her daughter — Rabbi Epstein’s niece — had been worried. Pesach was approaching, and they didn’t have the money they needed.

In Israel, this period before Pesach is critical. It’s when families purchase clothing and shoes for the children for the upcoming season, in addition to all the usual holiday expenses. Missing this window can make things very difficult.

They weren’t sure how they would manage.

But before they even started seeking help, something unexpected happened.

That afternoon, her husband — Rabbi Epstein’s nephew — received a call on his home phone.

The caller introduced himself as Ron Greenberg (name changed), and explained:

“I’m opening a taxi company in Rechovot, and I really want your phone number. It’s simple and memorable — just what I’m looking for to make my business stand out. I’m willing to pay you 4,000 shekels for it.”

The nephew politely declined.

“Everyone knows our number,” he said. “Changing it would be complicated for our family and friends.”

But the next day, Ron called again — this time offering 5,000 shekels.

“Did you ask your wife?” he pressed.

The nephew figured his wife would surely say no, but to his surprise, she said:

“I’m not sure — maybe you should ask the Rav.”

So, he went across the street to his community Rabbi and told him the whole story.

The Rav smiled and said:

“Five years ago, when you first got your phone line, the phone company likely gave you an old taxi number. Now the time has come for the taxi company to reclaim it — and for you to take the 5,000 shekels and make Pesach properly.”

That was all the nephew needed to hear. He agreed to sell the number, switched to a new line, and the entire process was completed within a day. Later, when Rabbi Epstein finally reached him on his new number, his nephew answered with a smile:

“Oh — so you’ve heard the story already!”

And here is the deeper lesson Rabbi Epstein shared.

So often in life, we find ourselves worrying. How will we manage? Where will help come from? How will we possibly afford what we need?

But we forget that Hashem does not need our suggestions. His options are infinite. He knows exactly how to deliver what we need, exactly when we need it.

Who could have imagined that a random taxi company in Rechovot — needing a catchy phone number for their new business — would become the channel through which a young family would be able to make Yom Tov with dignity and peace of mind?

But that’s how it works. Hashem orchestrates every detail of the world.

Sometimes, He pulls back the curtain just enough for us to see it clearly. To remind us:

“I have unlimited ways to take care of you. Do your part — and trust Me with the rest.”

Daniel Agalar, founder of Stories to Inspire, is dedicated to sharing uplifting stories from renowned Rabbonim that touch hearts and transform lives. With over 7 million podcast downloads and an ever-growing collection of 5,350+ stories, the platform inspires a global audience through its website at storiestoinspire.org and hotline (718-400-7145). Join the daily WhatsApp broadcast by messaging 310-210-1205 or tune in on Apple and Spotify podcasts to experience timeless wisdom and positivity.

What are some the basic applications of Dina D’malchusa Dina (the law of a kingdom is a law)? Are there exceptions when one does not need to follow the law of the land?

Dina D’malchusa Dina Source and What it Applies to

The Talmud states:1 “Shmuel said, dina d’malchusa dina” (the law of the kingdom is the law). Rava said: know [that this rule is true] that they cut down palm trees [without the consent of the owners] and construct bridges and we [may] cross over them.”

The Rashbam2 explains the concept of dina d’malchusa dina to mean that all the taxes and rules of the kingship become law for all people who live in the land on this condition to follow its rules. Thus, the kingship’s laws also become halachicly binding as well. The Rashba and the Ran in Nedarim3 write in the name of Tosfos that the rule of dina d’malchusa dina regarding taxation applies to non-Jewish kings in the diaspora, for the land belongs

1 Bava Kama 113b.

2 Rashbam to Bava Basra 54b.

3 See Rashba and Ran to Nedarim 28a

Ask the Rabbi

Dina D’malchusa Dina

to them and they may say to the citizens that if they do not pay the taxes that they will expel them from the land.

The Maharik also qualifies the law of dina d’malchusa dina is only where the laws are basically common place and typical by regular kingdoms, and not just merely laws that some dictator merely decided to impose on the people.4

Some poskim hold that dina d’malchusa dina is a Rabbinical law,5 while others argue that it is has Biblical status.6

Is a Democracy also Counted as Dina D’malchusa Dina?

Although the term dina d’malchusa dina literally means ‘law of a kingdom is the law’ it is fair to argue that it includes also elected democratic governments as well that fully govern the citizens. Tosfos to Avoda Zara 10b points out that in Rome they swore not to have a king but rather to have three hundred leading adviser

4 See Maharik (shoresh 66).

5 Beis Shmuel (Even Haezer 28:3).

6 Avnei Miluim (Even Haezer 28:2) who argues with the Beis Shmuel.

So is the view of the Chasam Sofer (Yoreh Deah 314) that dina d'malchusa dina is a Biblical law. The Chasam Sofer refers to sale of an animal to a non-Jew, where the animal would give birth to a first born. If the non-Jew acquires it, then the first born that will be born will not have the status of kedushas bechor (holiness of the first born). The non-Jew gave a down payment and just a handshake without also performing meshicha (pulling it into his domain). Normally, a kinyan (acquirement) would also need meshicha, but the nonJew insisted that a handshake is sufficient as it is the formal way of commerce in the local country and is recognized by the government as a formal way to acquire. The Chasam Sofer considered the handshake as grounds for a bonifide kinyan since it would be recognized by the government (dina d'malchusa dina), even to avoid a potential otherwise Biblical concern.

rulers. A plethora of poskim indeed hold that democratic elected governments are included in the law of dina d’malchusa dina.7

When Dina D’malchusa Dina Conflicts with Torah Laws

Although the rule of dina d’malchusa dina, when they are fair laws, is a halachic binding obligation, thus one must keep local government laws as part and parcel also as a halachic religious duty.8 However, there is halachic debate as to how far reaching the rules of dina d’malchus dina apply. However, dina d’malchusa dina cannot override Biblical or Rabbinical prohibitions, for if that would be the case, the whole Torah would be abolished!9 Laws that are pertinent between two Jews, such as inheritance laws, we follow the rulings of the Torah, as dina d’malchusa dina does not affect these Torah laws.10 However, in some cases, we would look at the law of the land to see how a business dispute would normally be considered. On all doubts, one should seek guidance from a competent Rav.

Interestingly, even though when it comes to returning a lost object, when there is yi’ush (despair) one need not return the item. However, if the law of the land does require us to return it, the Rema writes that we should follow the law of the land, out of respect for the malchus (kingship).11

7 See Pa'as Sadecha (165); Mishpat Kohen (144:14); Yaskil Avdi (vol. 6 Choshen Mishpat 28:2); Yechava Da'at 5:63. The above sources also rule that people must pay taxes and follow the rules of dina d'malchusa dina in Israel and other government democracies.

8 See Gittin 10b Rema (Choshen Mishpat 369:8).

9 See Shach (Choshen Mishpat 73:39). See also Shulchan Aruch (Admur Hazaken Hilchos Gzeila 5).

10 See Rema (Choshen Mishpat 369:11).

11 See Rema (Choshen Mishpat 259:7).

Rav Yosef Dov Halevi Soloveitchik quoted from his uncle who commented that under the old communist regime, there was no legitimate dina d’malchusa dina since they were completely corrupt.12

Dina D’malchusa Dina in Modern Democracy Takeaway

We should be appreciative of democracies such as the United States that protect are personal natural right to “Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness”. Certainly, we should follow all its laws either due to the rule of dina d’malchusa dina or simply because we owe it to our country which was called by great giants such as Rav Moshe Feinstein “ a malchus shel chesed” (a kingship of kindness).

The Lubavitcher Rebbe was very particular with respecting the laws of the land even when it challenged his shlichus and mitzvah campaigns. At the same time, the Rebbe many times encouraged efforts to be made to have the law of the land recognize various campaigns as legal and lawful.13 Rabbi Raskin a shliach in Morocco wanted to print Tehillim and Tanya in a pocket-size edition, however, in Morocco this was not legal as it is a Muslim country. The Rebbe responded14: “If it is legal according to the law in that place, it is very proper.”

Certainly, we can do all the good things a Jew needs to do while also keeping the laws of the land and make a big kiddush Hashem at the same time.

12 See Nefesh Harav pg. 269. 13 See for example Igros Kodesh vol. 32 epistle 12,043. Another example was to fight to legalize public menorah lightings in city squares.

14 Igros Kodesh vol. 31 epistle 11,852.

Dovid Nissan Bressman

Rabbi Dovid Nissan Bressman authored two halacha books on mezuzah and sefer torah. He has Yoreh Yoreh and Yadin Yadin from Central Tomchei Tmimim Brooklyn NY. He is also an ordained sofer and magiah and the director of Chesed Umishpat which assists on Jewish status matters. For questions or dedications you can reach him at jewishchesedumishpat@gmail.com or 310 617 5205

Beyond the Headlines

A weekly glimpse into the Israel you won’t read about in the news

Sivan Rahav Meir

Translated by Yehoshua Siskin, Janine Muller Sherr

THE HOLY FIRE OF LAG BAOMER

Friday May 16 is Lag BaOmer, the 33rd day of the counting of the Omer and the yahrtzeit of Rabbi Shimon Bar Yochai. All over the world, Chabad organizes parades for children on Lag BaOmer. This year, these parades will be another vehicle for expressing our prayers for the hostages, for our soldiers, and for all the Jewish people.

Rabbi Shimon Bar Yochai, whose yahrtzeit is marked with huge bonfires, was the author of the Zohar, the book of Kabbalah, Jewish mysticism. Even if we personally are not capable of studying and understanding this facet of the Torah—we recognize

that it exists. The Torah is far deeper than we could ever imagine. Similarly, the people around us (and we ourselves!) also have, deep inside, a layer that is secret and holy. Part of this secret, holy dimension of our nation revealed itself after October 7, 2023. We have discovered, beneath the surface, endless, hidden resources of power, resilience and unity. Rabbi Shimon taught that if we study the hidden Torah and discover more about ourselves and the treasures within us, we will be redeemed from exile and released from all of our suffering. May we merit to see it soon.

THE KETUBAH THAT

SERVED

TWO COUPLES

Ruchama Hershkovitz is the mother of Yossi Hershkovitz, the highly esteemed principal of a Jerusalem high school who fell in battle in Gaza. On Holocaust Remembrance Day, she and her husband Yaakov led a session of Zikaron Ba’Salon [a social initiative of informal gatherings in private homes] speaking about Yaakov’s parents’ Holocaust experience.

People from across the spectrum of Israeli society came to hear Yaakov speak movingly about the self-sacrifice and faith of his mother, Chaya, a Holocaust survivor, who would give up her nightly cup of diluted coffee in the camps so that she that could use it to fulfill the mitzvah of netilat yadayim in the morning. Yaakov’s parents survived the Holocaust, married, and made Aliyah.

The presentation had been prepared by Yossi, of blessed memory, who researched the Holocaust and was very close to his grandmother. At the end of the evening, Yaakov showed the audience his parents’ ketubah, relating how they had held onto their faith under horrific circumstances, and had subsequently produced 254 descendants, including 43 great-grandchildren.

At the conclusion of Yaakov’s presen-

tation, a young woman approached him.

“I’m planning to get married in a month from now,” she shared. “I originally had no intention of marrying in accordance with Jewish law, but after hearing about your mother, I’ve changed my mind. I want to get married as she did, with a ketubah.” The woman’s mother also came up to Yaakov and told him, “This has been a painful issue in our home for several months. And now, you have solved the problem.”

Ruchama summarized the experience:

“My husband Yaakov’s mother survived the Holocaust and passed away. Our son, Yossi fell in the war. And now, in their merit, a new couple will establish another Jewish home.”

THE FEAR BEHIND THE FRAME

A teenage girl recently stopped me at a gas station to take a selfie. I’ve gotten used to the way teens often contort their faces in photos—deliberately making themselves look odd or unappealing. I think that this practice is usually rooted in insecurity or body image struggles. One girl once gave me a painfully honest explanation: “If I make fun of myself first, then others won’t do it online.”

But the girl at the gas station showed me something new. She held up her phone, positioned me at the center of the shot—and then shifted herself almost entirely out of the frame. I moved over to give her space, but she refused to step in. Only her ear and a tiny part of one eye were visible. The message was unmistakable: she was ashamed of being seen. Not just of how she looked, but of her very presence.

This isn’t just her personal issue. It’s a reflection of a wider, troubling trend.

Last month was the yahrtzeit of the extraordinary Israeli poet Zelda. One of her relatives, David Zvi Hilman, was privileged to receive letters from

her. Long before the selfie era, before filters and TikTok, she wrote to him about something deeper: true self-worth and spiritual independence.

“You were created to bring happiness into the world, and to receive sacred, genuine love,” Zelda wrote to him before his bar mitzvah. “Sometimes I think the darkest and most terrible sin is when a person thinks poorly of themselves. That’s not humility—it’s weakness. It’s a retreat from life, and I believe that building a life is one of Judaism’s deepest foundations. Nurture a love for your inner Divine spark and your talents—they are droplets from the Source of eternity. I believe in your strength and in your future. Life can—and should—be precious and magnificent.”

If I could find that girl again, I’d read her those words.

We recently read in the Torah, “Love your neighbor as yourself.” But before we can truly love others, there’s a basic assumption: that we first love ourselves.

WHY ARE WE SO HAPPY?

“Why Are Israelis So Happy?” That’s the title of a recent piece by former Soviet refusenik Natan Sharansky and historian Gil Troy, published in Tablet magazine. In it, the authors explore a surprising finding: According to the newly released 2025 World Happiness Report, Israel ranks eighth among the happiest countries in the world.

This would be remarkable in any year—but especially now. In the wake of a devastating war that has claimed the lives of over 1,800 people, Israel has still managed to outpace countries like the United States (ranked 23rd) and Britain (24th), while war-torn Ukraine sits at 111 and Lebanon near the bottom at 145. Even more striking: 91% of Israelis surveyed said they were satisfied with their lives.

So, what’s the secret? Sharansky and Troy offer three key explanations:

1. Affirming Life

In the shadow of tragedy, Israel has experienced a baby boom. While birth rates in most Western countries continue to decline, Israelis are embracing life—literally—by bringing new children into the world. This deep-seated resilience, a refusal to surrender to despair, is woven into the national fabric.

2. Living Tradition

A staggering 96% of Israelis recently participated in a Passover Seder—the oldest continually observed ritual in the Western world. For Jews, tradition is not a relic of the past but a living inheri-

tance. The Passover story is not remembered; it is re-lived. As Sharansky and Troy note, “Prayers, songs, food, and other rituals invite Jews to see themselves as having been personally redeemed.” Despite deep political rifts, Israelis remain bound by a shared story and a collective mission: to pass that story on.

3. Meaning and Hope

While youth in many Western nations struggle with an epidemic of despair—losing pride in their countries and stories—Israeli children are steeped in meaning. Schoolchildren conduct shorashim (roots) projects, exploring their family history. Mourning rituals for fallen soldiers and terror victims are public, communal, and deeply moving. Thousands turn out to comfort bereaved families— often strangers—and the grieving respond by building “living monuments” that carry their loved ones’ values forward. Inspirational quotes from the fallen are printed on bumper stickers and shared across the country, offering daily reminders of courage and purpose.

For Sharansky, this national clarity of identity, peoplehood, and history echoes the values that sustained him during his imprisonment in the Soviet Gulag. He concludes with a message for the West: Learn from Israel. Strengthen your sense of community, of connectedness, of historical pride. In short— learn to love your country.

People who came to the Hershkovitz’s for Zikaron BaSalon. (Inset) Yossi Hershkovitz

Geulah for One: The Politics of Redemption

At this exact moment, the notification that we have been praying and begging for the past 584 days just popped up on my phone“Hostage Golani Lone Soldier Edan Alexander, now free”. It’s Pesach Sheini, the holiday of redemption, the day of second chances. Edan is now experiencing his own geulah, his own second shot at life.

I think back to exactly a week ago- on one of my most recent work-related whirlwind trips to NY I was struck by all the signs that flooded the yards and street lamp posts in the towns of Englewood, Tenafly and Fort Lee. Pictures of Edan filled the lawns of almost every Jewish house I passed, including my own cousins and Aunt and Uncle’s home where I was staying. As many of us have learned by now, Edan was a Tenfaly, NJ native. He enlisted in the Golani Brigade, as a lone soldier post High-School. He was one of the young “soldiers” taken on that fateful day last October. Like many others whose loved ones were kidnapped, Edan’s family has been in the public eye advocating and begging for his immediate release. His family made frequent visits to the White House, with President Trump also making sure Edan’s name remained in the spotlight, as he was the last living American citizen to remain in Hamas captivity.

I think about Edan, a NJ boy, who was a friend to many in his community. I can’t imagine all the celebrations that await him, both in Israel and his hometown. And I remember Omer Netura, a Long Island boy who attended High School with another cousin of mine. Omer was also taken hostage on Oct. 7 and his family held out hope for 14 long months that he was alive, only to find out he was killed upon being taken. His remains are being held in Gaza and are yet to be returned.

Why has Eden been freed and not the others? Direct talks between Hamas and U.S. representatives in

Doha led to an agreement to release Edan, in what was noted as a “gesture to Trump and the Americans, without any conditions.” It was made clear this was out of good-will as an ode to the Americans, irrelated to Israel. This symbolic move appears aimed at reopening diplomatic channels with the U.S., particularly in light of former President Donald Trump’s re-emergence on the international stage. By releasing a high-profile hostage outside of negotiations with Israel, Hamas signals that it can selectively engage with global powers, underscoring Israeli mediation. This weakens Israel’s position in negotiations and may complicate efforts to secure the release of the remaining captives.

My heart aches for our remaining boys, some of whose families we have come to know personally: Bar Kupershtein, brother of Or who has now been to LA numerous times, telling the world about the dire need to release his brother. Elkana Bohout, who has a wife and young son waiting for him at home. Elkana’s best friend, Roy Levi, successfully escaped from the Nova festival with his wife. Roy describes how in the weeks following Oct. 7, at first glance, Elkana’s son kept thinking Roy was his father, returning from the festival. Roy continues to reassure him that his father will return home soon. These are just two. And the list goes on… And we can not forget our holy Chayalim who risk their lives out of pure Ahavat Yisroel, in efforts to allow us all to live free from terror.

Ilanit Zakowski, originally from Monsey, NY, lived in Israel and now lives in LA with her husband and six children. A Jewish educator and ESL teacher, she teaches middle school at Maimonides and English to Israeli children. In the summer, she serves as Camp Mom and Jet Ski driver at Camp Moshava. Ilanit is a passionate runner who loves Torah, Jewish history, and exploring Jewish communities around the world.

Ilanit Zakowski

The Struggle Is the Success: Redefining Greatness in Avodas Hashem

By Isaac Wiess, a 16-Year-Old Student at Yeshiva Ohr El Chanan Chabad

Over the years, social media has played a huge role in all of our lives. Whether it’s liking and sharing posts or seeing all the awesome and seemingly perfect experiences our friends and celebrities are having, it often makes us think and feel, “Ugh, I wish my family could afford that trip,” or “If only I had those amazing genetics and the perfect family.” Whether it’s someone we’re close with or a Hollywood celebrity, this constant exposure distorts the way we view the true mission we, as Jews, are meant to fulfill in this world.

We focus only on the Instagram-perfect post—or in other words, the “result”—and strive to reach these people’s so-called accomplishments. In doing so, we often ignore or undervalue the personal effort that we should be investing in our own growth, especially when we don’t see the same shiny results.

But the Alter Rebbe comes to the rescue in Perek Tes Vav of Tanya, teaching us that success as a Jew in 2025 isn’t about having an Instagram-perfect life. Rather, it’s about the toil and effort that go into serving Hashem—and how even constantly failing can be the greatest success.

As humans, we often equate failure with “I’m not good enough,” or “This isn’t for me.” On the other hand, we define success as being the best—having fancy cars, loads of cash, and a luxurious lifestyle. But that definition is flawed and ultimately harmful. This misconception extends even into Yiddishkeit. We often think that to be a tzaddik is the ultimate goal in avodas Hashem—the definition of success.

A great example of this can be seen in two types of bochurim. On one hand, there’s a spectacular prodigy—a bochur who never comes late to seder, who learns with ease for hours, from Shacharis through late-night learning. On the outside, he seems flawless and consistent, a future Rav in the making. On the other hand, there’s another bochur who has to put in every ounce of

energy and strength just to serve Hashem properly or to hold himself back from sin. Spiritually, he may not seem anywhere near the first bochur’s level. Naturally, we tend to admire the first one more.

But the Alter Rebbe teaches us to see things differently. In fact, he goes so far as to say that the first bochur might not even be considered someone who “serves” Hashem. The key lies in the wording the Alter Rebbe uses: “Oved— one who is serving—is in the present tense.” This refers to someone who is actively working on themselves—the second bochur, who must constantly wage war against his yetzer hara. That struggle is the essence of serving Hashem.

Putting in that kind of effort is no small feat. The Lubavitcher Rebbe made this crystal clear in a famous interaction with Rabbi Yosef Kessler, who had just recently become religious. Rabbi Kessler was nervous about how the Rebbe would see him, given that he had only just begun his spiritual journey. To his surprise, the Rebbe greeted him with a warm, loving smile and said, “I’m jealous of you.”

The Rebbe was referring to the incredible effort Rabbi Kessler had put in to come so far. Just imagine Rabbi Kessler’s reaction. From this we learn how much Hashem values our effort in avodas Hashem—so much so that one of the holiest people of our time could express jealousy over a simple Jew’s sacrifices.

Why is that? Why does Hashem value our struggle so deeply? What’s so important about coming out of our comfort zones?

To help understand this, there’s a beautiful moshol: A wealthy man gifts his teenage son a Porsche for his 17th birthday. Later that day, his little cousin gives him a pair of brand-new AirPods that he bought with all the money he had saved up doing chores.

Strangely enough, the 17-year-old

is far more touched by the AirPods than the Porsche.

At first glance, this may seem absurd. But in truth, it makes perfect sense. Yes, the Porsche is worth much more, but it cost the father nothing. The cousin, however, gave from a place of real sacrifice and love. It wasn’t about the value of the gift—it was about the effort.

The same is true in avodas Hashem. A tzaddik may serve Hashem with spiritual clarity and ease, but the simple Jew who fights tooth and nail every day to do the right thing is offering Hashem something even more precious—love through struggle.

It’s crucial, though, not to fall into a trap. Some people use the idea of “effort”

as an excuse for failure. The Alter Rebbe makes it clear: we should only value struggle when it motivates us to keep working harder—not when it’s used to justify giving up. The goal is not to pat ourselves on the back for trying and then quit. It’s to keep going, even when it’s tough.

As Jews in 2025, we must distance ourselves from the world’s definition of success. We have a higher calling. Our constant efforts, our ongoing struggle to connect to Hashem, are not only worthwhile—they are the very essence of our purpose. The Alter Rebbe teaches us that Hashem doesn’t ask for perfection. He asks for effort. And that, in His eyes, is the greatest success of all.

Martin Fishman & Associates

175 Staff Members from North America and Israel Attend the Orthodox Union’s Yachad Summer Program Directors’ Conference

Yachad Head Staff, Clinical Supervisors, and Fellows Unite for Leadership Training, Connection, and Chizuk Ahead of a Dynamic Summer Season

As 120 campers and 100 staff members and their families at Camp Chaverim of Yachad in Swan Lake, New York, prepared to usher in Shabbat on August 14, 2024, a sudden fire broke out — engulfing the camp’s Beit Midrash in flames. The blaze, caused by an electrical malfunction, destroyed the entire building, including over 200 pairs of tefillin and countless sefarim. Miraculously, no one was injured, and the Sefer Torah was not inside at the time.

While the destruction was heart-wrenching and traumatic, the fact that it occurred at a camp for boys with special needs only intensified the emotional toll. Nevertheless, says Camp Chaverim of Yachad Founder and Co-Program Director Rabbi Yosi Wadler, calm prevailed amid the chaos thanks to consistent emergency preparation and a leadership approach that prioritized clear communication and defined responsibilities.

“Years of building trust between leadership, staff, and campers created an environment where emergency directions were followed without hesitation, allowing for quick evacuation and trauma mitigation,” says Rabbi Wadler. “The team’s focus on support, and thoughtful adjustments during recovery, demonstrated how strong relationships and well-practiced protocols provide the foundation for effective crisis response.”

Rabbi Wadler, fellow Program Director Rabbi Reuven Kamin, and Assistant Program Director Rabbi Moshe Katz, recently shared these, and other lessons from the disaster, with approximately 175 supervisory staff, clinical supervisors, and Yachad Fellows from North America and Israel, at the recent Yachad Summer Program Directors’ Conference, held at the Hilton Stamford Hotel in Connecticut.

Launched in 1983, Yachad is an international organization of the Orthodox Union dedicated to enriching the lives of Jewish individuals with disabilities and their families. It offers a variety of social, recreational, educational, and vocational programs in 10 regions across North America and Israel. In 1997, the organization opened its Yachad Summer department, which provides recreational and vocational enrichment to over 500 participants across more than 25 camps and programs in North America and Israel.

Programs include Yad B’Yad, an inclusive Israel experience for post-10th and 11th graders and young adults with disabilities; Yachad’s Israel Free Spirit Birthright trip to Israel for young adults with developmental disabilities; the Yachad Bunk Program, offering dedicated bunks in mainstream camps; the Camper Integration Program, supporting inclusion within mainstream bunks; Yachad Bachutz, a farm-based program for high-functioning boys; Yachad Vocational Program, providing real-world job experience in camp settings with job coach support; and Adult Getaway, a vacation-style program in

upstate New York.

“Yachad Summer is the largest provider of Jewish camping opportunities for individuals with disabilities,” says Yachad Summer Director Dr. Joe Goldfarb. “Our programs are designed to reflect a range of hashkafot, and we offer both coed, and single-gender options to meet participants’ diverse needs. Unlike other camps that are based at a single location, Yachad Summer spans a wide geographic range, maximizing Yachad’s impact on Jewish communities worldwide.”

Dr. Goldfarb emphasizes that the three days of chizuk, inspiration, and professional growth are crucial for strengthening team connections and fostering collaboration ahead of the summer.

“Coming together as one unified team reminds everyone that they’re not working alone,” he says. It underscores the power of our collective efforts and the unique value each individual brings.”

Yachad International Director Avromie Adler adds that conference participants also gain valuable insights by sharing emerging trends and best practices for supporting individuals with disabilities.

“Leaders with decades of experience come together with those just starting out, and peer-topeer learning is a key part of the weekend,” he says.

“Many of our participants are clinical and educational professionals during the year, generously sharing their expertise. This weekend helps Yachad Summer team members to strike the right balance between preserving the beloved ‘camp ethos’ of fun, growth, learning, and Jewish identity, while maintaining the highest standards of professionalism.”

In her role as Yachad Program Director at Camp Moshava I.O. (Indian Orchard), Yoyo Ettinger oversees approximately 30 staff members each summer. This was her eighth Yachad Summer Program Directors’ Conference, and she views each as a meaningful opportunity to connect with fellow leaders from across the network.

“One of the main highlights is feeling part of a broader team of people who are passionate about the work we do,” she says. “Each program operates independently but we’re part of a network. Coming together and collaborating helps me to better prepare for the summer.”

Supervisory staff participated in a variety of engaging sessions, including The Anatomy of Effective Supervision — tips for first-time supervisors navigating their new roles; Effective Strategies in the Behavior Lab — techniques for managing potential behaviors from program participants; Constructive Feedback Frequencies — insights on delivering constructive feedback; Cultivating Spiritual Photosyn-

thesis During the Summer — strategies for maintaining connections with Hashem throughout the summer; The Staff Mental Health Formula — supporting staff’s mental health; and AI: Your Lab Partner for an Easy Summer — essential tools to streamline and enhance the summer experience.

Professional development was further enriched by scholar-in-residence, Perry Binet, director of Camp Migdal for children with disabilities, and vocational director and curriculum advisor at The Yaldeinu School for children with autism in Brooklyn. Binet shared her experience and expertise in sessions including Positive Leadership: How to Create a Positive Work Environment; Parent/Family Sensitivity and Support – covering such topics as understanding parents, practicing empathy, and admitting mistakes; and Love, Connect, Respect, Responsibility – loving, respecting, and truly connecting with campers.

The latter particularly impacted Yachad Brooklyn City Director Avi Kirshtein. Kirshtein oversees a team of about 10 staff members annually, and engages with over 100 Yachad participants. Each summer, as Program Director for Yachad Birthright, Kirshtein and his staff of 12 accompany about 25 participants on a life-changing journey to Israel.

“Perry’s discussion truly resonated with me,” he says. “Her central message was that every person matters deeply, and the very fact that someone exists is proof that Hashem sees them as essential to the world. That perspective gave me a renewed appreciation not only for the individuals we serve, but for every person I encounter. It was a beautiful and grounding reminder of the sacredness of our work.”

This was Kirshtein’s sixth year attending the Yachad Summer Program Directors’ Conference, and he was equally touched by the Camp Chaverim program directors’ presentation on navigating the fire that destroyed their shul.

“Their ability to stay calm, prioritize safety, and lead with clarity and compassion in such a highstress situation was truly inspiring, and offered powerful lessons in leadership under pressure.”

Ettinger agrees.

“Chaveirim staff continue to lead by example, showing that staying calm, being kind, and having emunah can help you through any situation,” she says. “They embody strong communication and the ability to learn from every challenge and experience.”

Other conference highlights included a Q & A session and spirited oneg led by Adler, who shared Yachad’s inspiring goals for the future, and a dynam-

ic session with Rabbi Shay Schachter of Young Israel of Woodmere, who serves as Yachad’s Rabbi and Posek. Rabbi Schachter offered words of chizuk and addressed attendees’ questions regarding halachic issues that may arise during the summer.

Conference participants also included 54 Yachad Fellows — high school juniors selected for a unique educational program pairing CIT (counselor-in-training) work at Yachad camps with extensive leadership training. While previous Yachad experience is not mandatory, between 85 and 90 percent of Fellows are Yad B’Yad alumni. Students who successfully complete the Yachad High School Fellowship Program are guaranteed a position as either a Yachad counselor or job coach in a Yachad Summer program the following year.

“Although our Fellows participate in separate programming, everyone comes together on Shabbat,” says Dr. Goldfarb. “This gives our students opportunities to learn from the dedication and sincerity of Yachad’s leaders, whom we hope they will strive to emulate.”

High School Junior Jesse Ives-Kurtzer was inspired to grow as a Yachad Fellow after participating last summer in Yad B’Yad — his first Yachad program, and one of the most impactful experiences of his life.

“The inclusive nature of the program was really special,” he explains. “Being an extrovert, I love connecting with others, and Yachad is an organization where I feel I could make a difference by helping to create that inclusive environment for others. The Yachad Fellowship will allow me to apply the lessons and experiences I gained last summer in a broader context.”

Ives-Kurtzer was especially moved by a panel of relatives of Yachad participants, who offered powerful insights into the experience of having a family member with special needs.

“It made me realize just how meaningful my job is this summer, and it gave me even more chizuk to keep going,” says Ives-Kurtzer, who will be working at Camp Moshava I.O. “One of the panelists said something that really stuck with me: ‘To you, the person you’re working with is your camper this summer, but to us, they’re someone’s entire world — someone we wouldn’t change or trade for anything.’ That totally shifted my perspective and gave me a new level of motivation. I’m so excited for the summer and am looking forward to all the fun and experiences it will bring!”

Yachad head staff compete to master Yachad’s guidelines and protocols at the Orthodox Union’s Yachad Summer Program Directors’ Conference

Yachad’s Rabbi and Posek Rabbi Shay Schachter fields halachic questions and offers practical wisdom to address various camp scenarios

Yachad Brooklyn City Director Avi Kirshtein mixes stand-up comedy with lessons on learning from one’s mistakes

A Grand Canyon Yankee in King David’s Court

Shira Shirim

My Pinky and I left Arizona to spend Pesach in Israel, and live like locals with our daughter and son-in-law. The visit was filled with zany, unpredictable events, beginning with Pinky stopping at a security checkpoint, believing it was a toll booth.

Michla and Nissim live in a six-story building in Efrat, and every door, including the entryways to the stairwell and lobby, is affixed with a mezuzah. The building screams—Jewish! Even the doors in the stores and downstairs corridors of the outdoor mall have mezuzahs.

Each morning, I stopped for coffee at the bakery. “Kafe katanah,” I’d say to the young barrista. She’d grin at my Hebrew mutilation, but those two words reminded me that I shared a land and a language with these locals. I handed Miss Barrista all the coins I could hold, which I later learned amounted to almost 40.00, and she made the proper change.

Sitting on a bench to sip my favorite hot beverage as children passed by in groups, carrying soccer balls and talking excitedly without a parent in sight, I realized we were all independent, totally free to be Jewish, to be ourselves.

Ari, our grandson, was turning three, and we drove over one hundred miles to northern Israel for his upsherin in Meron, near the glistening Galilee. Imagine driving on a modern highway, where the paint stripes are designed to absorb heat from the sun’s rays and convert it to energy used to light the highway at night. Yet, you are cruising past green and golden hills where sheep and cattle are grazing, guarded by a Bedouin shepherd in a white and gray cloak, riding bareback on a shiny steed out of the thirteenth century. Israel is a country where the ancient and present-day constantly intersect.

We put our baggage and a baby stroller on the roof of Nissim’s SUV so everyone could fit inside. Halfway into the drive, a truck blasted by us going in the opposite direction, and whoosh… Pinky announced from his third row seat, “I think we have a problem.” He watched the stroller, luggage, and roof rack zoom southward and tumble to the asphalt.

Unbelievably, the vehicle behind us didn’t hit anything. Instead, it stopped, and a guy with square shoulders and wrap-around sunglasses emerged and cooly directed traffic, while our son retrieved our load. B”H, our

things were intact, and when Stewie pulled everything to the side of the road, he discovered the stroller was in perfect working order, with only a one-inch gash on its rubberized handle.

Miraculous!

Perhaps more miraculous, planted like an oasis amidst the desert was a garage, and a tall, really tall, earnest Chabadnik mechanic stopped what he was doing, secured the roof rack, and got us back on the road. He refused any money! It’s worth noting that I’d given tzedakah hours before and prayed for a safe trip.

We davened in Tiberias, at the tomb of the righteous Rabbi Meir Bal Haness. Pinky couldn’t go in because it’s closed to Kohanim, the priestly class, so while we prayed inside, near the tomb of the tzaddik, he prayed in the parking lot with an All-Kohen-Minyan!

Afterward, we shopped at the souvenir shop. Imagine that—souvenir shops adjacent to the burial spot of a righteous person! You can buy soccer balls with the Rambam’s image on the panel, key chains, and baseball hats emblazoned with a tzaddik’s holy visage.

Ari wore a cute outfit and a big knitted kippah for his upsherin. He sat in a highbacked wooden chair trimmed with red velvet, as fifteen or twenty friends assembled around him—talk about pressure. Nearby was a picnic table with cakes, salads, dips, hummus, and chips. As Nissim took out the scissors to make the first cut, Ari stared wide-eyed at the shiny scissors, slid feet first off the chair, and dived beneath the picnic table.

Haha, the haircut would have to wait until we returned home and Ari’s babysitter cut his hair while he gripped a popsicle in one hand and a small sticky candy in the other, like a lulav and esrog.

Driving back home along the winding roads and sloping routes, we passed bus stops where youth in floppy hats and sandals jumped from vehicles carrying big backpacks, sticking their thumbs out, hitching a ride. It’s a country in perpetual motion. Traffic circles are inescapable, more commonplace than traffic lights, because Israelis can’t stop going; it’s in their blood.

Perhaps because of Israel’s small size, everything seems closer and elevated. Life’s pearly luminosity is pulsing right around the bend. One hears its roar, stretches out one’s hands, and joy washes over you as if standing beneath a waterfall. Pinky says even vacuuming is fun, and he should know because he’s been cleaning Michla’s apartment.

On Shabbat/Passover, I was overwhelmed by the stillness and quiet of the Judean Hills on the day of rest. There is no vehicle to be seen or heard, absent are the noisy landscapers cutting grass, the bang, bang, bang of a construction crew’s hammer, or the rat-a-tat of a drill. It’s like a silent movie. Then you go to shul and walk by the outdoor mall, and every store is closed, and signs warn not to enter the premises with chometz, that everything has been cleaned for Passover, even the elevators!

The gashmius is keeping Shabbos and the Festival of Freedom!

You don’t know what it’s like to daven until you’ve davened in Israel. You’ll be shuckling in prayer, your mind fixed on elevated thoughts, your heart aflutter as you glimpse the rolling vistas outside, then you look down and see an automatic rifle on the floor, eighteen inches from your feet. You look around and see more M16s, soldiers, and reservists are davening next to them. They’re kids, they look like they just learned to drive, and I was moved to the point of wanting to thank and hug each of them.

I noted that some rifles are pointed toward the Ark and others toward the back of the shul. After services, I asked a soldier what determines whether the gun is pointed to the back or front of the shul.

“There’s no science to it; it’s personal preference. What direction would you prefer?”

“It doesn’t matter,” I answered, “as long as it’s pointed away from me!”

Motzoi Shabbat, at the seder, Pinky broke off the middle matzo for the Afikoman, and—I’m not making this up—he pulled out the broken piece of matzo and held it out for us all to see, and it was the identical shape of the State of Israel!

On Chol Hamoed, we were invited to a BBQ in Bat Ayin, where the pavement

ends, the world drops out of sight, and you can see for a thousand miles. As the sun lowered and the shadows lengthened in a thicket of pine trees, we enjoyed the camaraderie of our hosts, their food and wine, and the barefooted guitarists singing Pesach songs. Pinky wandered over to the nearest picnic table while I kept an eye on the grandest grandkids in the universe. When he returned, he told me all the guys at the table were shepherds.

“Shepherds!” I exclaimed. “Those young guys with long hair, beards, and colorful scarves are shepherds? How does that happen?”

”I don’t know, and they all come from Long Island!”

We sauntered over to talk to them.

“Did you respond to a Classified Ad?” “No.”

“Did you go to school? Is there Continuing Ed?”

“No.”

“Was there an application?”

“No. There’s no paperwork or computers. Just raising animals. I raised the goat you’re eating.” [They’d given me BBQ’d goat. Hey, when life offers you something good—grab it.]

“Did you name this goat?”

“Haha! No, you can’t get too close to your animals. That’s one of the rules.”

What an experience; after two weeks of living like a local, this Yankee from the Grand Canyon State feels validated, graduated, sanctified, purified, authentic, majestic, and a wee bit poetic. Here, we Jews live and breathe unapologetically according to Hashem’s intention, and the feeling is unlike anything I’ve ever experienced.

Shira Shirim lives in Arizona with her husband, her two golden retrievers, Fauna and Flora, and a cockatiel. She enjoys competitive dog grooming, soap carving, and creative writing in her spare time. This is her first attempt at publication. You can contact her at shirashirim408@gmail.com

Amid Global Division, a Moment of Religious Unity in Los Angeles

May 7, 2025, Los Angeles, CA – In a world where religion so often divides, two paramedics from Israel, one Muslim, one Jewish, offered a story that brought Los Angeles’ religious leaders to their feet.

Hosted by American Friends of Magen David Adom (AFMDA), in partnership with the Flesh Family Sinai Temple Israel Center, the Board of Rabbis of Southern California, and Jewish Federation Los Angeles, the historic event at Sinai Temple drew an extraordinary gathering of clergy from across Los Angeles.

Leaders from Orthodox, Conservative, and Reform Jewish denominations sat alongside Catholic priests, Muslim leaders, Sikh granthis, and representatives of the Latter-day Saints and Seventh Day Adventist communities, all united by a simple, powerful message: that saving lives transcends belief systems.

Standing at the center of this gathering were Aryeh Myers and Hatem Nassar, paramedics with Israel’s Magen David Adom. They weren’t there to talk about war or politics. They came to share what it meant to serve during Israel’s darkest days, when Hamas launched the October 7 attack.

“In the field, there are no divisions,” said Hatem. “We wear the same uniform. We serve for the same reason, because every life matters.”

Aryeh, who helped evacuate wounded civilians under rocket fire, reflected on what carried them through:

“We didn’t stop to ask who someone prayed to. We stopped the bleeding. We carried the wounded. We saved whoever we could.”

Their testimony stirred something deeper in the room, a shared conviction that religion doesn’t have to divide us, and that faith, at its best, is a force for healing.

“In a post October 7th world, where religion has led to division, Magen David Adom and its diverse paramedics, Hatem Nassar and Aryeh Myers, shared the true story of unity without uniformity the power of working together to save lives with mutual respect, cooperation, and ultimately love,” said Rabbi Erez Sherman of Sinai Temple, who moderated the event. “It was the story of Magen David Adom from thousands of miles away that enabled the group of interfaith leaders around Los Angeles to come together once again.”

That spirit of unity is the lifeblood of Magen David Adom, Israel’s national emergency medical service. With a network of 37,500 paramedics, EMTs, first responders, and volunteers, Jews, Muslims, Christians, Druze, Bedouins, and more, MDA is a daily example of coexistence in action.

For Los Angeles’ interfaith leaders, the conversation wasn’t just a powerful story. It was a blueprint for what’s possible when service replaces suspicion, and dignity replaces division. About American Friends of Magen David Adom

American Friends of Magen David Adom (AFMDA) is the U.S.-based fundraising arm of Magen David Adom, Israel’s na-

tional emergency medical service. AFMDA helps ensure that MDA’s 37,500 paramedics, EMTs, first responders, and volunteers have the training, equipment, and vehicles needed to save lives in Israel and around the world. Paramedics and EMTs represent every religious and ethnic group in Israel — Jewish, Muslim, Christian, Druze, Bedouin, and more — and work side-by-side to save the lives of every person in need. For more information, visit www.afmda.org

Classifieds Section

Shalom Bayit

“You never spend time with me!” But

you just did!

-

What gives?

This time of the counting the Omer teaches us something important about Shalom Bayit. A husband asks his wife, “What’s for dinner tonight?” She tells him, “Yesterday we had soup.” You spent a beautiful afternoon with your wife and kids at the park. When you come home, your wife booms, “you never spend time with me!” “What?” you think to yourself, “I just spent the whole afternoon with you and the kids!” Time is a funny thing. In רומא, God mandates that we count up 50 days from Passover to mark the holiday of Shavuot. He could have easily given us the date like all other holidays but didn’t to teach us not to just count time - to make time count! If your kids are there, if your mutual friends are there, if you went on a “date” to watch a movie – this time doesn’t count.

You have to be in the moment, undistracted, with your soulmate and only with her, for Shalom Bayit.

Rabbi Nir and his wife Atrian give regular classes on Shalom Bayit. His popular 3 minute podcast is funny and draws Shalom Bayit ideas from the Torah portion of the week. To register: thegameofmarriage@gmail.com

The Derech Eretz Corner

Dear fellow readers, I would like to introduce a new feature to the LA Jewish Home: “The Derech Eretz Corner.” It’s a brand new feature based on an extremely old concept that seems to be nearly forgotten in this age of advanced technology communication that should be easier can go sideways fast. The values that our ancestors grew up with are a prehistoric relic.

In each issue, a situation will be presented from real life which provokes thought regarding the human reaction to it. One could react according to untamed human nature or according to nature tamed by Torah learning.

Buckle up! We are taking off on a journey to discover how to notice things around us and to make them better!

This issue’s theme of “faith and taxes” takes on a bit of a different spin here: as an educator for 53 years, I’d like to have the faith that we Jews shouldn’t be taxed to know how to behave with dignity and respect.

The Derech Eretz that we learn from our Torah should guide us to naturally behave in pleasing ways. “Pleasing to others and pleasing to Hashem.” (pirkei Avot)

This week’s scenario will be solved by virtue of an anagram: “alert/alter.” Picture of this: an ante room adjacent to a sanctuary at a synagogue. There are hooks on the walls for coats, hats, snack bags, and what not. There are shelves to hold things that don’t fit on hooks. On the floor are scattered several glossy Jewish calendars, produced for anyone to take for free.

Many have walked over or around them with intention to get to their prayer duties. On the way out, all are either hurrying home, greeting friends, or discussing points of Torah or the Rabbi’s Drasha. (All the while walking on or around said calendars which may very well contain Holy pictures, quotes, and other writings.)

For some reason, it doesn’t come naturally for anyone to pick them up and put them on a shelf or table.

Enter our anagram: alert/alter if we can be alert to the fact that something needs acting on, we should follow through by altering our behavior, to fix the problem. Our eyes should alert our brains to think: Perhaps the glossy covers could create a slipping danger? Perhaps newcomers to the synagogue, will think that the regulars don’t care about their Makom Kodesh.

Our brains should be tuned into our surroundings as we move through our days/lives. We were recently instructed by a Torah portion to “be Holy!”

Because our G-D is Holy. And holiness is what we should emulate.

Creating a kiddush HaShem wherever we go, will bring blessings upon klal Yisroel. I welcome your feedback