TLAJH 11-7-24 Issue

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Dear Reader,

Welcome to the very first installment of what we’re calling “The Three P’s.” Yes, friends, this is the beginning of a three-part series where we will explore three potent pillars clawing at Jewish Los Angeles today: Politics, Pills, and…P**. (Yes, we’re talking about that, and yes, we’re going to call it Shmirat Einayim.) We’re diving deep, with the kind of candor and insight that’s almost guaranteed to make you lean forward in your chair. Because let’s face it: sometimes we need to be shaken up just a bit.

For now, in Part One, we’re starting with politics—the seasonally appropriate first “P.” The 2024 elections just wrapped, and whether you’re still processing the outcome or couldn’t care less, there’s no ignoring the impact these decisions have on our day-to-day. We spent the last few months speaking with community members and local leaders, people like Benny Forer, the DA known as the quiet stalwart of justice who stands by his principle of “serving the people, not the headlines”. Forer isn’t here for the spotlight, and that’s exactly why he’s worth listening to. As he reminded us, “Justice isn’t about who’s loudest. It’s about who’s right.”

Let’s admit it, though Los Angeles politics is like an endless family debate, complete with the spectrum of opinions you’d expect in a room full of cousins. We’re a community that takes pride in our unique perspectives and passions. We argue over everything from ballot measures to school board candidates and scroll endlessly through news and “analysis” on social media, getting sucked into the Trump-vs-Kamala vortex that’s practically addictive. But here’s a twist: as absorbed as we get in these debates, how many of us actually translate that fervor into action right here, on our streets?

In fact, in our feature Beyond the Ballot, we delve into this exact phenomenon. Why do we engage passionately online but fall short in showing up at local council meetings or working to secure our synagogues and schools? Voting is a start, yes, but it’s hardly the end. We’re reminding ourselves—and each other—that the ballot box isn’t the last word in civic duty.

This election season has served as a vivid reminder: sometimes, in our fervor for the big picture, we miss the little things that impact us most. As Forer so sharply put it, “Justice is in the details, in the quiet work,” not in the noise we too often get lost in. It’s a theme that resonates throughout this issue because, like it or not, politics isn’t just what happens in Washington; it’s what happens right here, on our own block.

In the coming weeks, we’ll be back to look at some of the “quieter” but equally pressing issues, including those that touch on Shmirat Einayim and substance use—a topic that has cast a long shadow over communities everywhere. The days may be shorter, and the nights longer, but that doesn’t mean we can ignore the hard topics. Quite the opposite, actually.

With that, we invite you to turn the page, dive in, and let us know what you think. Let’s face it: this is your community, and your voices are what keep our pages turning. Write to us, argue with us (hey, we’re Jewish!), and most importantly, join us in making sure these three “P’s” don’t become silent letters in our community alphabet.

David Rogatsky

Editor-in-Chief

The Jewish Home Magazine

SHABBOS ZEMANIM

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Los Angeles, CA:

Shabbat Torah Reading: Lech Lecha

Light Candles at: 4:36 PM

Friday, November 8, 2024 - Cheshvan 7, 5785

Shabbat Ends: 5:32 PM

Saturday, November 9, 2024 - Cheshvan 8, 5785

Shabbat Torah Reading: Vayeira

Light Candles at: 4:31 PM

Friday, November 15, 2024 - Cheshvan 14, 5785

Shabbat Ends: 5:28 PM

Saturday, November 16, 2024 - Cheshvan 15, 5785

San Francisco, CA:

Shabbat Torah Reading: Lech Lecha

Light Candles at: 4:45 PM

Friday, November 8, 2024 - Cheshvan 7, 5785

Shabbat Ends: 5:43 PM

Saturday, November 9, 2024 - Cheshvan 8, 5785

Shabbat Torah Reading: Vayeira

Light Candles at: 4:40 PM

Friday, November 15, 2024 - Cheshvan 14, 5785

Shabbat Ends: 5:39 PM Saturday, November 16, 2024 - Cheshvan 15, 5785

Phoenix, AZ:

Shabbat Torah Reading: Lech Lecha

Light Candles at: 5:12 PM

Friday, November 8, 2024 - Cheshvan 7, 5785

Shabbat Ends: 6:08 PM Saturday, November 9, 2024 - Cheshvan 8, 5785

Shabbat Torah Reading: Vayeira Light Candles at: 5:07 PM Friday, November 15, 2024 - Cheshvan 14, 5785

Shabbat Ends:

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Beyond the Ballot: How Election Day is Just the Beginning for LA’s Jewish Community

David Rogatsky

By the time you read this, either the election results are locked in, or the dust has yet to settle. Either way, the real question is, come November 6th, does any of it really matter? Will we feel a difference? Or will it be another day in Jewish LA, where the only things that change are Mincha and Marriv times.

At The LA Jewish Home, we’ve spent the last few months talking to leaders and community members from every corner of Jewish LA. The range of topics has been as wide as the city itself, but one theme keeps resurfacing: the need for our community to see Election Day not as the end, but as the beginning of a much larger journey. Voting is one step—an essential one—but it’s only the start of what we, as a community, need to do to ensure our values, safety, and future are actively represented.

One of our commitments to the Jewish community of Los Angeles is to continuously give these issues a platform. It’s a commitment to raising awareness and sparking discussions around what really matters locally. We’re here to remind you: politics isn’t just about national drama or who sits in the White House. It’s about what’s happening in our neighborhoods, our schools, our synagogues, and our streets.

The Politics Trap: A Unique Kind of Addiction

Politics today has this way of worming itself into our lives and taking up residency in our minds. It’s hard to ignore—and maybe that’s the point. Turn on any news channel, scroll through social media, or walk into a coffee shop, and it’s like you’ve entered a debate hall. People become emotionally invested, almost religiously so, in their chosen candidates and political identities. And no one stirs up this level of obsession quite like Donald Trump and Kamala Harris.

There’s a strange kind of addiction to it. The daily fix of news, the thrill of the “us vs. them” mentality, the certainty that our side is right. But let’s be honest: this addiction is distracting us. People are glued to screens, arguing about Trump or Harris, Desantis or Newsom, as if the fate of their lives depends on it. Yet, when it comes to local issues—the things that affect our daily quality of life in Pico-Robertson, Hancock Park, or Valley Village—that fervor often vanishes. It’s easier to have an opinion on a presidential tweet

than to show up at a city council meeting or to vote on measures that fund local security.

And here’s where the problem lies: while we’re busy arguing about Trump, Harris, and the whole national circus, what are we actually doing to make our local Jewish community safer, stronger, and more stable? Watching videos and sharing memes doesn’t equate to action. Discussing politics in a WhatsApp group is easy; stepping up to make change in your own neighborhood is where it really counts. And yet, we’re addicted to the noise while our own backyards are left unattended.

The High Stakes Right Here at Home

Local politics may not have the glamor of a presidential race, but make no mistake—these elections carry stakes that are immediate and personal. Rising antisemitism in Los Angeles, issues with neighborhood safety, public funding for security around shuls and Jewish schools—these are matters that affect every one of us directly. As a community, we need to be actively engaged in these areas.

Los Angeles City Councilman Nick Melvoin recently put it simply: “Jewish LA has a voice. But it only matters if we use it.” It’s a sharp reminder. Having a voice is one thing; wielding it effectively is another. And while our community is vocal, often passionately so, that energy needs to be channeled into productive local action, not just national debates. Melvoin’s point was clear—if we don’t step up to vote, advocate, and stay informed on local issues, then we lose our chance to shape our own community’s future.

Election Day Is Step One, Not the Finish Line

Here’s the reality: voting is the first step. It’s like signing up for a gym membership; if you don’t actually go and work out, don’t expect any results. Voting opens the door to change, but if we don’t walk through it, nothing happens. Showing up to vote signals that we care, but it’s the follow-up—the phone calls, the emails, the meetings—that makes our elected officials take notice and act.

Rabbi Stulberger of Valley Torah framed it perfectly when he said, “Our commitment to our community’s future doesn’t end at the

ballot box. It starts there.” Think about that for a moment. It’s not enough to cast a vote and assume our work is done. Being a Jewish Angeleno means being a constant, insistent presence in the local political landscape. City officials and community leaders need to see that our commitment to safety, education, and welfare isn’t seasonal or election-dependent; it’s woven into the fabric of who we are.

The Disconnect Between Political Passion and Local Action

Why is it that we can be so intensely passionate about national politics, yet hesitate to act locally? Part of it is psychological—national politics feels bigger, more exciting, like a drama unfolding on a massive stage. Local issues, by comparison, seem mundane, even though they’re anything but.

This disconnect isn’t just a curiosity; it’s a danger. While we’re busy debating the latest campaign ad, there’s a vote on funding that could affect security outside our shuls. While we’re reposting political memes, there’s a local election that could decide the future of Jewish education in our city. Let’s ask ourselves: are we so caught up in the spectacle of national politics that we’re failing to protect what matters most at home?

What

Happens After November 5th?

By the time you read this, the results may be in. Perhaps the candidates we supported have won, or maybe they haven’t. Either way, the work doesn’t end on Election Day. If the leaders we wanted are in office, great—but we need to hold them accountable, and ensure they follow through on their promises to protect and support our community. And if our preferred candidates didn’t win? Then it’s time to double down on our efforts, to make sure our voice isn’t drowned out.

Here’s what we can do post-election: stay informed, stay vocal, and stay engaged. Attend town halls, reach out to representatives, and be present in the discussions that shape Jewish LA. Rabbi Eilfort of Magen Am, a respected figure in Jewish security, put it bluntly: “You want change? Then you need to show up.” It’s a call to action that’s hard to ignore.

Strength in Unity, Not Division

Let’s face it: politics is divisive. And when you throw in the kinds of personalities we see on the national stage, it’s easy to see why families and friends end up on opposite sides. But here’s the thing: no matter who’s in office, we’re all still part of the same community. If our love for each other and our shared values come second to political opinions, then we’ve lost more than any election could take from us.

The Jewish community in Los Angeles is stronger than any one candidate, any one party, or any one election. We’re bound by a legacy, by shared history, by a commitment to each other and our future. As the election results roll in, remember this: Hate may rear its ugly head, and divisive voices may get louder, but we won’t be broken. No matter who holds office, our unity, resilience, and dedication to our values will carry us forward.

Looking Forward: A Community Call to Action

So, here’s the takeaway: if we want to see real change, we have to make it happen. If you’re passionate about security, education, housing, or any issue that affects Jewish LA, let that passion drive you beyond the ballot box. The days after Election Day are when the real work begins.

The conversations we’ve had at The LA Jewish Home over the past few issues have shown us one thing: this community has the power to make a difference. Let’s not waste it. In this issue and in many more to follow, you find real events, petitions, protests, and other calls to action that you and yours can sign up for and get involved in (Page 28).

Whether you’re a lifelong resident or a newcomer, your voice matters. Let’s make sure it’s heard—not just in national debates, but right here where it counts.

If history has taught us anything, it’s that we, the Jewish people, have always risen to the challenge, no matter its form or face.

is this promise that has sustained our ancestors and us alike. We stand resilient, rooted in our traditions and in each other, through times of hardship and triumph. Let’s carry that strength forward, lift our voices, and ensure Jewish Los Angeles not only survives but thrives.

SPOTLIGHT INTERVIEW: BENNY FORER

LA’s Quietest Yet Most Principled Prosecutor

David Rogatsky

You won’t find him stalking the cable news circuit or crafting viral tweets about justice (oh no, not him). Instead, BENNY FORER likes to spend day after day in an office that practically radiates with the weight of Legal Gravitas where he practices something that’s become nearly extinct in this era of Instagram activism and TikTok jurisprudence: actually serving justice.

“My job is to serve the people, not the headlines,” he says plainly, a sentiment that seems to sum up his approach to both his career and his responsibility to his community. It’s a straightforward statement, but one that carries weight in today’s era of polarized opinion. For Forer, justice isn’t about bending to public opinion, and it certainly isn’t about catering to the loudest voice in the room. “People think they understand what justice is, but real justice doesn’t pick sides,” he states. “Real justice is blind.”

Raised in a family that held justice as a core value, Forer speaks with reverence when he talks about his father and grandfather, both of whom understood that truth isn’t always convenient, but it’s always worth defending. “My family has always defended the right to speak, the right to think, even when it didn’t align with what they personally believed,” he reflects. The idea that justice is a privilege to uphold, not a matter of convenience, is something that’s been woven into his life from an early age. “I come from a line of family members who understood that justice doesn’t get handed to you; you have to fight for it,” Forer adds, a line that’s as much a credo as it is a glimpse into his professional motivation.

In the DA’s office, where he handles sensitive and often high-profile cases, Forer’s background gives him a distinct edge. It’s not that he’s oblivious to the noise surrounding these cases, but rath-

er that he views it as a distraction from the task at hand. “There’s a lot of noise,” he says simply. “But noise doesn’t equal justice. Justice happens when you let the facts speak.” It’s a reminder that in the courtroom, opinions fade into the background, leaving only the evidence and the law to speak for themselves.

Forer is keenly aware that many people, even within the Jewish community, lack insight into the workings of the legal system. “The community is focused on high-profile issues and propositions, but the legal system runs on much more than just those headlines,” he observes. In a climate where every new policy can become a battleground, Forer emphasizes the importance of sticking to the fundamentals. “Justice is in the details, in the quiet work,” he asserts. For him, the integrity of the legal system isn’t found in grand gestures but in the day-to-day decisions that, while they may go unseen, uphold the principles of fairness and equity.

“The reality? It’s a lot more nuanced than that,” he says, pushing back

against the simplification that often accompanies public opinion on legal matters. He’s aware of the need for transparency, yet remains committed to the belief that justice is not a public spectacle. “When you’re doing the right thing, you don’t need to worry about what’s popular,” Forer insists. In his world, popularity is irrelevant; what matters is the commitment to uphold the law, irrespective of public perception.

Despite the challenges, Forer’s dedication to his role remains rooted in a broader commitment to Jewish values. “We have an obligation as Jews and as Americans to uphold justice,” he says, drawing a connection between his faith and his career that feels both natural and profound. Forer’s belief is that justice isn’t selective. “It applies to everyone equally,” he states, a principle that he sees as both a personal value and a professional mandate.

As Los Angeles faces yet another round of propositions and policy debates, Forer’s stance remains unwaver-

ing. He views the broader discourse as valuable yet emphasizes the need for grounded perspectives. “People are passionate, and that’s a good thing. But passion needs to be grounded in reality,” he explains, recognizing that opinions may vary but that the law remains constant. “At the end of the day, justice has nothing to do with popularity and everything to do with responsibility,” he reiterates, a statement that serves as both a reflection of his approach and a quiet challenge to those who view the legal system through a partisan lens.

Forer’s role, then, is not just that of a prosecutor but of a guardian of truth in a system that is often swayed by the forces of public opinion. “Justice isn’t about who’s loudest,” he says firmly. “It’s about who’s right.” In a world where divisive voices dominate, Forer’s commitment to honesty and integrity shines through as a testament to the values he carries from both his Jewish heritage and his professional ethos.

In his office, as he prepares for yet another case, Forer leaves little room for ambiguity. He has a job to do, one that he takes seriously, knowing that each decision he makes is a reflection not only of his personal commitment but of a broader legacy. “The truth doesn’t change because of opinion. It stands on its own,” he says, a statement that could easily double as the mantra for his entire career.

As the Jewish community navigates its own perspectives on justice, safety, and public policy, Benny Forer stands as a reminder that while the issues may be complex, the approach need not be. “Hate and division might exist,” he concludes, “but if we’re committed to integrity, it doesn’t stand a chance.”

Attitude of Gratitude

Parshat Lech Lecha

Parasha Lech Lecha begins the story of the birth of Bnei Yisrael. While many of us are familiar with the quality of ‘Chesed’ – ‘Loving kindness’ being directly associated with Avraham Avinu, one of his key qualities that is understated is one of his ability to show gratitude. The Parsha provides us with keen insight into the psychological concept of cultivating an attitude of gratitude. The beginning of the Parsha states: “And the Lord appeared to Abram, and He said, To your seed I will give this land, and there he built an altar to the Lord, Who had appeared to him (12:7).” This passuk provides us a powerful lesson in gratitude.

Gratitude is a positive emotional response characterized by acknowledging and appreciating the benefits, kindness, or positive experiences received from others or life circumstances. The Or HaChaim writes the Torah wishes to compliment Avraham on his great love for Hashem, since Hashem appeared to him and promised him not only children but that his descendants would inherit Artez Yisrael. Avraham considered the mere fact that Hashem appeared to him as sufficient reason to build an altar! The feeling that Hashem had deemed him worthy to appear to him was so overpowering that Avraham considered the promise of children and of the land as secondary. This is why the Torah stresses that he built the altar “to the Hashem who appeared to him.” This led Rav Twerski to conclude that the first words we utter in the morning are ‘Mode Ani – Thankful I am’ and the emphasis given to expressing gratitude indicates its overwhelming importance. The spiritual person is a grateful person.

This can further be seen daily during the repetition of the Amida. There is a curious conundrum that our silence during the repetition of the Amida is pierced by the congregation bowing and reciting Modim D’Rabanan. The Rambam writes Everyone stands, listens, and recites ‘Amen’ after each and every Bracha but not at Modim. Here we join the Chazan and simultaneously recite ‘Modim Anachnu Lach - We are grateful to You.’ Rav Soloveitchik writes that when it comes to showing gratitude it is not enough to just follow along with someone else and say Amen, we must personally do it for it to be meaningful. Every person must thank Hashem for themselves for the effort to succeed.

Expressing gratitude doesn’t have to be complicated. Here are three easy tips to express gratitude:

Verbal Appreciation:

Simply say “thank you” when someone helps you or does something kind. For example, when your children hold the door open for you, you can say, “Thank you for your thoughtfulness.”

Time:

Providing your time or just your presence can sometimes mean the world to someone. This can be perfectly summarized by David Hamlech in Psalms 16:11, “In Your presence is perfect joy.”

Acts of Service:

Show your gratitude by doing something helpful for the person in return. Watch someone’s kids, take them a meal, call them to check in.

Incorporating gratitude into your daily routine through practices like gratitude journaling, expressing thanks, or engaging in acts of kindness can cultivate a positive outlook, improve our relationship with Hashem, and enhance overall quality of life. Gratitude is the last truly free gift remaining on this planet. We can learn a valuable lesson from our forefather. Kindness is the quality Avraham is most known for, however gratitude is the precursor and building block for gratitude. Author Brené Brown writes, “What separates privilege from entitlement is gratitude.” May we all cultivate more gratitude into our lives and experience the ripple effect of receiving its gifts.

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.

Let’s Be Honest: Hachnasat Orchim

Let’s be honest—anytime we get that golden ticket invitation for a Shabbat or Yom Tov meal, we get a little spark of joy. The thought process is simple: no cooking, no cleaning, and a free pass to enjoy someone else’s food and conversation. It’s like winning the communal lottery. But what about those who didn’t get that coveted invite?

Not everyone’s feeling the love. In fact, some people spent the entire Yom Tov season that just passed home alone for every single meal. And no, they didn’t choose to. The invites? They just never came.

And before you start thinking, “But someone else will handle it!”— welcome to the biggest misconception around Hachnasat Orchim. We’ve all got our reasons for passing the responsibility. “They probably have other friends.” “They might not fit in with my other guests.” “Maybe someone else already invited them.” It’s the classic case of communal diffusion of responsibility: If we all do nothing, we can convince ourselves it’s taken care of. Let’s be honest— when did Hachnasat Orchim become a quid pro quo exercise? A tit-for-tat, “I’ll invite them if they invite me next time” arrangement? When did we lose sight of what it actually means to be welcoming?

Hachnasat Orchim isn’t about filling a social calendar. It’s about emulating Hashem’s kindness, going out of our way to feed the hungry, share our space, and uplift others. Remember Avraham Avinu? When he saw three strangers, he didn’t hesitate to offer them a full-course spread, plus VIP treatment washing their feet, while excusing himself from Hashem. He knew he was not going to get invited elsewhere, he was the only Jew in existence. So why don’t we?

The reality is, a lot of folks feel awkward or even guilty about accepting invites, especially if they’re in no position to reciprocate. Maybe they don’t have the space. Maybe their budget doesn’t allow for hosting elaborate meals. Does that mean they’re unworthy of the mitzvah? Last

time I checked, the requirement for Hachnasat Orchim didn’t include a reciprocity clause. If anything, we’re supposed to make people feel comfortable, not subtly remind them of their lack of a return invite.

So here’s a radical thought and some suggestions: Why don’t we stop relying on individual guesswork and start organizing? Every shul should have a dedicated Hachnasat Orchim committee. And not the kind that quietly fills slots for Shabbat dinners only if you’re a paying member. I’m talking about a committee that views Hachnasat Orchim as a core mitzvah, actively seeking out newcomers, singles, families, or anyone who might just need a warm place to land. This isn’t just about bringing members together; it’s about making everyone—member or not—feel like they belong in the community. Second, when an invitation is made and the guest asks, “What can I bring?”, don’t simply just reply by saying yourselves with some emojis. Consider directly asking for them to contribute from a list of a few small items, so that they too feel they are participating in the mitzvah. Lastly, establish more potluck meals. Potlucks are a celebration of togetherness where each dish tells a story, and every contribution— big or small—brings something or someone special to the table.

Let’s be honest, hosting is an honor, not an inconvenience. And if we truly want to be like Avraham Avinu, we’ll stop keeping score and start opening doors. If you are interested in hosting people, please contact your local shul to create a committee and be proactive.

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.

Yoel’s Lemonade Stand

Justin Oberman

A Non-Voter’s Post-Election Guide to Dealing with Political Nutjobs

Let’s get something straight up frontthis article isn’t about why someone chooses not to vote.

Here’s a fact that might shock you: Non-voters are actually the majority in America. In the 2020 election, about 103.7 million eligible voters didn’t show up. In 2016, it was 112 million. If “None Of The Above” was a candidate, they’d be running this joint.

But whether you skip just the presidential circus but vote on local issues, or you’ve decided to opt out of the whole damn system entirely, that’s your business.

The point of this article isn’t to justify your choice. I’m assuming you’ve already taken inventory of your situation and decided that for whatever reason, you decided not to show up at the ballot box or mail in your ballot. Maybe it’s just this year. Maybe it’s forever. Doesn’t matter.

What DOES matter is how to handle the inevitable onslaught of self-righteous political zealots who will try to shame you, blame you, or claim you’re single-handedly destroying democracy.

So, without further ado, here’s your survival guide for dealing with the most common attacks:

“People Who Don’t Vote are Stupid/Ignorant!”

This is what we call an ad hominem attackthey’re attacking you, not your position. It’s the intellectual equivalent of a temper tantrum. Attitudes like this are probably why you decided not to vote in the first place. There are only two proper responses to this kind of attack:

1. Say, “Fascinating. Is insulting people your standard method of political persuasion, or am I getting special treatment?”

2. Walk away.

“You’re Complicit in Everything Bad that Happens!”

Ah yes, the moral blackmail approach. They’ll quote Desmond Tutu or drop that “First They Came For...” poem like they’re dropping a mic. This is a silly argument since they presumably have no idea who you would vote for. If you voted for their “other guy”, you’d still be “complicit” in their eyes.

Want to really mess with them? Ask for specific numbers: “In a state that votes 65% for one party, what percentage of complicity do you assign to my non-vote? Give me the math on that.” The other obvious counter is asking them, “But what if your guy wins? Does it matter then?” But that only works before the election. If their guy or gal actually does win, they mysteriously stop bringing up the issue altogether.

“It’s Your Civic Duty!”

The citizenship guilt trip. Like you owe some debt to a system you never signed up for. Actually, you do - it’s called taxes. And you fulfill your civic duty by paying those. Your response: “The Constitution guarantees my right to vote. It doesn’t obligate me to exercise it. That’s why it’s called a right, not a requirement.”

“If You Don’t Vote, You Can’t Complain!”

This is the crown jewel of political B.S. First, one could theoretically argue the opposite: If you voted, YOU can’t complain. “After all,” you can tell them, “YOU participated in creating this system. I didn’t.”

But you don’t really need to go there because the argument is fundamentally - and even Talmudically - flawed. It’s what rhetorical scholars call an “arbitrary qualification fallacy” and what the Talmud refers to as “Ein Apotiki” - which basically means you can’t just make up random conditions to deny people their fundamental rights.

It’s like saying, “If you’ve never been a chef, you can’t complain about a crappy meal,” or “If you’ve never made a movie, you can’t criticize one.” It’s nonsense on steroids.

Here’s the reality:

Government policies affect everyone, whether they vote or not. Your taxes don’t come with a checkbox saying, “Did you vote? If not, we’ll return this money.” The police don’t ask to see your voting record before protecting your property. The fire department doesn’t check your ballot history before putting out your house fire. The First Amendment protects your right to complain, which is not (directly) contingent on whether or not you voted. Period.

The argument also assumes voting is the only way to engage with a political system. That’s like saying the only way to be a good consumer is to buy everything advertised to you. It’s an artificial barrier created by people who want to shame you into conforming to their version of civic participation.

The truth is you can engage with politics in a hundred different ways:

• Activism

• Community organizing

• Public discourse

• Civil disobedience

• Economic choices

And yes, even choosing not to participate in a system you don’t believe in

Remember, not voting can be a political statement itself. It can be your way of saying, “I don’t want any of these options. Do better.” Kind of like a boycott.

So, when someone tells you that you can’t complain if you don’t vote, remind them that they’re not encouraging democratic participationthey’re trying to silence your silent dissent. They’re saying, “Play by our rules or shut up.” Well, guess what? That’s not how democracy works.

Your non-participation in voting doesn’t negate your existence as a citizen, your right to an opinion, or your ability to participate in society in other ways.

You don’t owe them an explanation, and you certainly don’t owe them your participation in their preferred form of civic engagement.

If they persist, just tell them you’re practicing democracy in its purest form - by choosing not to participate in something you don’t believe in, just like they do whenever they refuse to leave you alone.

Justin Oberman is an Advertising creativity consultant, copywriter, and Co-Founder of a Personal Branding Agency called Genius Scouts. You can follow him on LinkedIn at linkedin.com/in/justinoberman/

Are You Willing to Journey into the Unknown?

Rabbi Shmuel Reichman

There is a story told of a man who was captured behind enemy lines during war. To his horror, he was sentenced to death by firing squad. However, the captain gave the man another option. He told him, “You can go to the firing squad tomorrow morning at 6:00 a.m., or you can choose to walk through this door.” Feeling hopeful, the man asked: “What’s on the other side of that door?” The captain answered: “No one knows. All I can tell you is that there is some unknown power behind that door.” The man thought it over, and the next morning, when it came time to choose his fate, he selected the firing squad. After the shots rang out, the captain’s secretary asked him: “You’ve offered so many people the other option, and every time they choose the firing squad. What’s beyond that door?” With a look of dismay on his face, the captain answered: “Freedom! But people would rather face a known death than journey into the unknown.”

Walking into the Unknown

When Hashem commands Avraham to leave his home and embark on a journey, Avraham is told “Lech lecha me’artzecha... — Go for yourself, from your land...” (Bereishis 12:1). This directive is quite strange. Avraham is told where to leave from, but he is not told his destination. What kind of journey lacks a destination? Generally, the destination, not the starting point, is most important. For example, imagine being invited to a wedding, but instead of being told where the wedding will take place, you are told only where to leave from. Good luck getting to that wedding!

The fact that Avraham is not told his destination is not merely a practical issue; it is a fundamental challenge to the idea of a meaningful venture. In order to accomplish anything great, we must first identify a clear target and then determine the path required to get there. One does not accidentally achieve spiritual greatness; it requires extreme focus and dedication. A great journey must begin with a clear goal and destination. As we say every Friday evening in Lecha Dodi: “Sof

ma’aseh be’machshavah techilah,” the physical result originates first within the mind. Only when we first determine a clear destination can we achieve the extraordinary. If so, why wasn’t Avraham given a clear destination for his journey?

Lech Lecha: No Simple Journey

The answer to this question lies within the words “lech lecha.” While this phrase is often translated as “go for yourself,” it can also be translated as “go to yourself.” Avraham was commanded to embark on a journey toward “himself,” toward his true and ultimate self. In a genuine journey to the self, we don’t know the destination; we don’t know where it will take us. All we know is where we’re leaving from; where we are right now. Only once we arrive will we retroactively see where the journey was taking us all along. Of course, we have goals, destinations, and proposed directions, but anyone who has achieved anything of substance knows that the vision they once had is nothing like the actual journey they took. The goals create the process, but the actual journey transcends the limited goals that initially motivated the journey.

The inability to fully understand the destination of one’s own growth can be compared to a child’s inability to grasp a complex scientific or spiritual concept. Imagine explaining to a young child the relationship between quantum mechanics and general relativity, or the unique connection between the physical and spiritual world, or the different approaches to a complex Gemara sugya (topic in Talmud). The concepts would be completely beyond the child’s comprehension, as his limited intellect cannot grasp such sophisticated and abstract ideas. The same is true for each of us: imagine meeting a younger version of yourself and explaining all the things you will eventually accomplish, all the ideas you will learn, and all the experiences you will have. Your younger self would simply be unable to grasp the full meaning of this conversation. Now imagine instead that your older self does the same to your present self. The same would happen; you would not even begin to understand all that you will eventually become. You can have great goals and a clear direction, but that simply creates the journey. What will actually happen is a mystery. Therefore, to genuinely venture on the path toward your true self requires a leap of faith into the unknown, ready to embrace whatever future Hashem has in store for you.

This is why Hashem didn’t give Avraham a clear destination. In a journey to the self, all that we know is the starting point. Reaching the destination requires a courageous journey into the unknown. You don’t know what you’ll find, the challenges you’ll face, what people will think, or if you will even succeed. Many people refuse to step outside their comfort zone, embrace challenge, overcome their fears, and take the unpaved and uncharted path, the path toward greatness. Greatness therefore requires us to be courageous enough to journey into the unknown — to embark on the lech lecha journey to our true and ultimate selves.

Finding Your Unique Self

As we embark on this journey into the unknown toward our true selves, we must be willing to find our unique self that lies in wait. Each one of us has a unique purpose and mission in this world. This is why life can be compared to a journey at sea. Unlike dry land, where paths and roads can be paved, water has no pathways; the journey is a voyage through the unknown. While traveling on dry land, we can follow the path that others have paved. While traveling at sea, we must create our own path. There are no landmarks on the ocean; there is just endless sameness. We can use the sky and constellations as guides, but the water itself gives no hint of direction, remaining completely formless. This is why the word for ani, the self, shares its root with the word for ship, aniyah; each of us is a ship in the middle of the ocean. There is no looking around to see which path others are taking; we can only forge our path by looking within, finding our own unique purpose, and then journeying toward the ultimate version of ourselves.

The Process of Human Growth

With this principle in mind, let us explore the process of human growth. Many people grow from the outside in.

They look around at their friends, society, and the people around them, and then shape themselves to fit their surroundings. The clothes they wear, the food they eat, and the things they talk about all become a reflection of their external environment. In this model, a person is a slab of clay, and the goal of life is to fit as neatly as possible into the molds that society creates for you.

This is not the Jewish path; this is not the lech lecha path. Each one of us is created with our own unique potential, waiting to be actualized. Our job in life is to discover who we really are, to express our latent perfection. Growth isn’t about becoming great, it’s about becoming you; learning isn’t about discovery, it’s about self-discovery. You are born as a masterpiece, masked by confusion; your job in this world is to uncover yourself. To do so requires a lech lecha journey.

Instead of becoming a mirror, reflecting everything outside ourselves, we can become projectors. We can build something majestic and beautiful within ourselves, and then express that outward into the world. This is also the difference between thermometers and thermostats. A thermometer reflects its environment; the temperature outside determines its internal state. A thermostat, however, is unaffected by the external state of affairs. It first determines its desired reality within itself and then expresses it outside, building toward that goal in its external environment. A true model of growth is where we first develop ourselves internally, and then express that out into the world.

The Lonely Path of Truth

Sometimes, we must also be willing to walk alone on the right path, instead of following the masses on the wrong path. Avraham was called the Ish Ivri because he walked on the other side of the river (Bereishis Rabbah 42:1). All of humanity walked one path, and he chose a different one. He walked alone, choosing to live a life of truth rather than a life of social accep-

tance. Sometimes we can see most clearly when we have the time to distance ourselves from our current surroundings, rethink, redirect, and then return with newfound purpose and meaning. Many leaders throughout history went through this process along their journey to greatness:

• Avraham completely removed himself from his culture and then became the father of the Jewish People.

• Moshe spent years alone in the desert, developing his clarity and understanding of life before returning to lead the Jewish People.

• David HaMelech grew up as an outcast before being appointed king by Shmuel HaNavi.

• Esther HaMalka was separated from the rest of Klal Yisrael, alone in Achashveirosh’s palace, and then found the courage to risk her life to save the Jewish people.

This is not always necessary, but often, taking a step back leads to a giant step forward. This is why teenagers who leave their homes in chutz la’aretz (outside the land of Israel) and spend time learning Torah in Eretz Yisrael (Israel) often find it to be so transformative to their spiritual development.

The Torah Path

This model of growth, however, is only effective when undertaken within the framework and guidance of Torah. The only way to find your greatness is to see yourself within a greater self, namely, Hashem, the source of everything. Perhaps this is why a ship is called aniyah, a combination of the words ani (I) and yud-kei (Hashem’s name). The only way to journey toward yourself (ani) is when you are journeying to [and with] Hashem (yud-kei). The journey to your “self” is also the journey toward Hashem, the Root of all self. May we all be inspired to follow in the footsteps of Avraham and have the courage to embark on our own lech lecha journey, on our unique journey at sea, and discover who we truly are, and who we are meant to be.

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Elections 2024 Absolute Bitachon with Each Step

Gabriel Silverstein

By the time you are reading this, the results of one of the most important US elections will (probably) be known. It’s scary. It’s scary not knowing. But that’s the point.

Imagine you were given as crystal ball that showed you the future. You would know exactly when and how everything plays out (though maybe skip the temptation to bet with a future Sports Almanac). You would see every struggle, every challenge, and its solution. It would be like pausing a video game, watching an entire walkthrough tutorial, and just following the solutions - but where’s the satisfaction in that? What’s the fun in life if there is no struggle, no tests? What good is a story if there’s no struggle, no tests, no growth, no challenge?

get us down, let those challenges excite and motivate us to overcome them to reach our potential. Have fun conquering those tests, and see yourself leveling up each time.

you have to trust that the dots will somehow connect in your future.” Life can only be understood backward but must be lived forward. Knowing this truth is quite liberating — Steve follows this with “You have to trust in something — your gut, destiny, life, karma, whatever.”

This is what life is all about - not knowing, but having Bitachon along the whole way. Bitachon in Hashem, Bitachon in his ways and his path for us in life.

So instead of being upset about challenges and hardships and letting them

Let the unknown excite you - as counterintuitive as that seems. A midrash teaches us that when we crossed the Red Sea, the waters were actually curved to the left and only parted as we walked through the water. We took one step at a time with Emunah that Hashem would part the waters and make the path clear— just in time. That’s Bitachon. He knows the solutions - even if those are out of sight for now.

Steve Jobs in his famous Stanford commencement speech said “You can’t connect the dots looking forward; you can only connect them looking backwards. So

We can translate - you have to have trust in our omniscient omnipotent HaKadosh Baruch Hu! You must remind yourself about this daily even by having quotes and mottos on your wall! Humans quickly forget these things, that’s why we must pray and remind ourselves of our goals and dreams to remind ourselves to keep going.

Let’s do a quick exercise: Think for a moment in your own life, what things seemed negative in the moment but turned out to be a great blessing for you in the

future?

Over Simchat Torah, I had a debate with a Jew who claimed to be an atheist and a determinist, saying everything is pre-determined. But as Jews, we know that it is exactly the opposite. Yes, Hashem knows the whole story—past, present, and future—because He exists beyond time itself. For Him, everything is visible at once, like flipping through a book with all pages open before Him.

But here’s the key: Hashem’s knowledge doesn’t control our choices. Instead, he sees every possibility, every step we might take, but still gives us the freedom to choose. Each moment, we decide: do we listen to the Yetzer Hara, our inner voice of negativity, or to the Yetzer Tov, the voice of Hashem within our Neshama, calling us to rise and overcome?

It’s like a master tailor making clothes just for you. Hashem shapes each of our challenges, blessings, and opportunities precisely for us. And though he knows our choices, he lets us pick each path—so we can truly grow, conquer, and win.

Let the gifts inside of you shine bright, and let your challenges turn into missions to conquer and overcome. Let each challenge make you stronger, every pain into a gain, every weakness into a strength, and every rejection into a redirection.

May we be blessed with a year of energy, persistence, and resilience to overcome any challenge and test. May Hashem bless America with leadership that brings peace and prosperity to both the United States and Israel. And if events don’t unfold as we hope, may we have trust in Hashem, knowing that whatever he does is ultimately for our growth and well-being. May we soon merit to witness the coming of Moshiach!

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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

MY TAKEAWAY FROM SUKKOT

Of all the amazing, joyful and meaningful events on Sukkot, two powerful moments stand out in my mind. One was on the morning of Simchat Torah at the Ramada Hotel in Jerusalem. Over 100 survivors of the Nova festival-turned-massacre had gathered to celebrate the holiday together with the Kesher Yehudi organization. On the walls hung photos of those killed and kidnapped on that tragic day—friends close to their hearts.

One of the participants held a Torah scroll in his arms and danced with it, his face glowing. He said to me: “Last year, look where we danced. And today, look where we are dancing…”

Then came the Torah reading. Each person stood before the open Torah and recited a blessing. Many did so with tears in their eyes. At the conclusion of the Torah reading, everyone declared together: “Chazak, Chazak, Ve’nitchazek” (“Be strong, be strong,

and let us be strengthened”). It felt like a prayer, a declaration of choosing life: Out of brokenness, we will be strong.

The second moment occurred half an hour later, in a large tent that had been set up for bereaved families. A large prayer gathering was held, centered around families who had lost their loved ones. After completing the Torah reading on Simchat Torah, the Torah is immediately begun again from the beginning. And so, verses resonated in the air, bringing order to the world and to the heart: “In the beginning, God created the heavens and the earth” – the world is not an abandoned jungle; it has a purpose. Chaos cannot reign forever. And even if, at first, “the earth was unformed and void, and darkness was over the surface,” we await the proclamation: “And God said: Let there be light—and there was light.”

In the Torah portion, we read how from the darkness, light breaks forth. May it also break forth in our lives.

STARTING AGAIN FROM BERESHIT

Shiri Vidan is a tour guide from Kibbutz Na’an. Last year, she heard me explain how we complete the reading of the entire Torah on Simchat Torah and then immediately begin to read it again, starting from Bereshit.

“I was very taken by this idea,” she wrote, “and I decided that I too would start to read the weekly parasha, starting from Simchat Torah. But we all know what happened that day…”

Despite the shock and horror, Shiri resolved to continue with her Torah study. “Throughout the turbulent year, the weekly parasha became my anchor,” she said.

Each week, she searched for an idea that resonated with her. “In the parasha of Ki Teitzei, for example, we learn about returning a lost object. I told my students, young counselors from the Israel Nature and Parks Authority, about this mitzvah, adding that I had re-

cently discovered a lost object in my car—a flashlight — and had yet to find its owner.

“One of my students asked, ‘Is it a large, black flashlight?’ and I replied that indeed it was. Then she said, ‘I’m so happy that you found it- I’ve been looking for it, it’s mine!’”

She went on to say how gratifying it was to return a lost object to its owner specifically during the week when we read about this mitzvah in the Torah.

Shiri continued: “In a deeper sense, it seems that many of us have ‘lost’ our flashlight - the weekly parasha - which helps to light our way. We need to return this precious ‘object’ to ourselves. Looking back on this challenging year, I feel so fortunate to have been able to begin reading the weekly parasha and I recommend it strongly to everyone. This past Shabbat, I started again from Bereshit [the beginning]!”

ONE QUOTE FROM ONE REMEMBRANCE CEREMONY

This Sunday was marked nationally as the remembrance day for Simchat Torah — the day last year when so many dear members of our nation lost their lives. On such a painful day, when we remember so many wonderful, precious souls, here is a quote from Miriam, widow of the heroic soldier Uri Shani:

“It’s exactly one year since Uri fell. Our baby, Ro’i, is just starting to walk. I watch him as he tries to take steps—falling, getting up, taking a few more steps, falling again, and rising once more. I look at him—and I think about myself. This is a message for me, a message for all of us: We must fall and get up again, stubbornly persevering, so that we can walk and grow.”

WORDS OF PARTING FROM THE FATHER OF A TERROR VICTIM

Betzalel Carmi, 72, was murdered in Sunday’s terror attack at the Gelilot Junction outside of Tel Aviv. His father, Avraham, a 96-year-old Holocaust survivor, eulogized him: “You merited 26 grandchildren at your funeral, this is a great thing. That evil man wanted to destroy the Jewish People but we continue to live.”

OUR TEARS ARE POWERFUL

I received so many stories about the many soldiers who fell recently – it’s impossible to cover them all or to do justice to the unique character of each one. In times of such indescribable sadness, it’s worth focusing on a powerful statement from the Talmud: “Anyone who sheds tears over the loss of a righteous person, God counts and stores those tears in His treasury.”

When we cry over these terrible, painful losses, we must bear in mind that every single tear is counted and preserved in Heaven. Rav Kook explains that there is significance to our grief and sorrow. The tears we shed now are not in vain. This is not just sadness over something trivial or

frustrating; it is sacred sorrow, connected to eternity and to the deepest part of our soul and of our people.

When we mourn the right things, God counts each tear. These tears are not a sign of weakness — to the contrary, they testify to the depth of our connection to all that is good and holy. Each tear is a commitment to continue bringing light into the world. That is why these tears don’t fall to the ground, they rise Above.

May we merit the fulfillment of the verse “You turned my mourning into dancing.” May all these eulogies and tears be transformed into joy and celebration.

Miriam, widow of Ori shani, and son Ro’i

Simchat Torah celebration for suvivors of the Nova massacre

The Latest Victim of Cancel Culture: Newspapers

All they had to do was endorse Kamala Harris for president. Instead, the owners of the Washington Post and Los Angeles Times felt that it would be best to not take a side in the election and informed their respective editorial boards that their papers would not be endorsing a presidential candidate in the 2024 election.

This decision resulted in more than 250,000 Washington Post readers and 7,000 Los Angeles Times subscribers canceling their subscriptions.

“This is a self-inflicted wound on the part of the Washington Post,” Martin Baron, former editor of the Post, said. “Many of these readers signed up for the Post because they believed it would stand up to Donald Trump. And now they fear this is a sign of weakness … and an invitation to Trump to continue to bully the owner of the Washington Post.”

In response to being accused of cozying up to Trump, Jeffrey Bezos, the owner of the Washington Post, responded: “We must be accurate, and we must be believed to be accurate. It’s a bitter pill to swallow, but we are failing on the second requirement. Most people believe the media is biased. Anyone who doesn’t see this is paying scant attention to reality, and those who fight reality lose. Reality is an undefeated champion. It would be easy to blame others for our long and continuing fall in credibility (and, therefore, decline in impact), but a victim mentality will not help. Complaining is not a strategy. We must work harder to control what we can control to increase our credibility.”

Los Angeles Times’ owner, Dr. Patrick Soon-Shiong, said he had decided not to endorse in an effort to ease sharp divisions surrounding the election. He said he trusted readers to pick the best candidate.

Newspapers were already hurting financially because many people are now getting their news from online sources and social media. When was the last time you saw someone actually reading a newspaper?

Terry Tang, the executive editor at the Los Angeles Times pleaded with readers to not cancel their subscription: “We understand that many readers are disappointed and angry that The Times did not make a

presidential endorsement. We want our readers to know that we deeply value the trust that they place in us and work hard every day to earn that trust. But canceling subscriptions will hurt our ability to provide the robust journalism our communities rely on.”

Matt Hamilton, a Pulitzer Prize journalist at the L.A. Times also pleaded for readers to consider the impact of dropping The Times: “We have the largest newsroom west of the Mississippi,” said Hamilton. “These subscriptions underwrite our journalism, and they make it so that we can have more people covering City Hall, local courts, the school district, more people in Sacramento and D.C. Canceling your subscription just hurts the journalism effort.”

Washington Post columnist Dana Milbank said “Boycotting The Post will hurt my colleagues and me. We lost $77 million last year, which required another round of staff cuts through buyouts. The more cancellations there are, the more jobs will be lost, and the less good journalism there will be. For all its flaws, The Post is still one of the strongest voices for preserving our democratic freedoms.”

Arguments can be made both ways as to whether a newspaper should endorse a candidate for president. The argument against endorsing is that it allows that newspaper to maintain its impartiality with its readers. The argument in favor of endorsing is that it shows the newspaper stands for something and is not afraid to take a position. Therefore, there is no right answer to this question.

But to cancel a subscription in an effort to punish the newspaper for not endorsing is a different story. It was alarming to me when I read that subscribers canceled their subscriptions because the editorial board was not permitted to endorse a candidate.

I have been reading the newspaper since I was a kid. It was something my father and I always enjoyed doing at the breakfast table together. We didn’t clash because I reached for the sports section first while he would start from the front page.

The newspaper is timeless and precious. It is not something to simply kick to the curb when we disagree with something it

says or does. That’s what the “letters to the editor” section is for.

This is indicative of a bigger issuewhen someone doesn’t agree, rather than having a productive discussion about it, they are canceled.

Newspapers like the Los Angeles Times and the Washington Post are bigger than any one issue and its hardworking and dedicated journalists, many of whom I know personally, deserve our loyalty and commitment.

There are plenty of viewpoints that the Los Angeles Times publishes which I don’t agree with, especially when it comes to the subject of Israel. My response has always been to write a letter expressing my dissatis-

faction. Whether it is published or not, I have made my point and I know that editor Paul Thorton reads every letter.

There are more measured remedies that exist than canceling a subscription. If the newspapers received enough thoughtful and written input from its readers, instead of cancellations, it might even adjust accordingly. Brooke Kato, a journalist at the New York Post once said, ““Canceling is a deadend… challenging can make all the difference in the world!”.

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.

Shiva House Rules: Navigating the Visit without the Gaffe

Orly Mohaber

I recently attended a lecture on “Psychology of Avelut”. Having experienced a recent loss, I could relate closely to the topic, from the emotional roller coaster to the laws concerning the year of mourning. Sitting in back of the room with about thirty other women, I Iooked for a sign, wiping of a tear, a sniffle or even just a nod, anything that would indicate that I wasn’t the only one in the room grieving a loss of a loved one. I was silently yearning for the connection. But there was nothing, no movement beyond crossing legs or adjusting head coverings. I felt alone in a room full of women.

As the speaker approached the end of his lecture, he made an offhand remark about the inappropriate comments often made at a Shiva house. Suddenly, the atmosphere shifted. Nods appeared. I noticed women exchanging knowing glances and smiles. In that moment, I realized I wasn’t alone; others in the room had “been there.”

Nine months ago, as we were leaving the cemetery after my mother’s burial, my sister’s friend handed me an envelope and urged me and my sisters to read the content before Shiva visitations began. Given my state of mind, I took the envelope with no intentions of opening it. I just assumed it contained her condolences and some comforting words.

Later that night, as I was heading to bed, I noticed the envelope on the dresser. Curious and seeking a distraction, I decided to open it. Not only did I read Zehava’s letter from beginning to end, I reread it and made sure my siblings read it as well. Surprisingly, the letter was not about sympathies, my mother’s greatness, or her sufferings in this world. Rather, it was heartfelt advice from someone who understood the Shiva experience. She reminded us that shiva is a time for comfort and honoring our mother’s legacy. Importantly, she emphasized that we had no obligation to endure uncomfortable situations, questions or comments. While this may seem obvious, reading this message in writing was an eye-opening experience which I took with me through the week.

For those who have participated in the Shiva experience, it has become a source of dark humor. The participants compare notes and hold an unspoken competition for the “dumbest comment” heard during shiva.

Visiting a Shiva home is inherently uncomfortable and no one looks forward to it. Visitors never know what kind of vibe they will encounter. What will they talk about? What if they are the only visitor? Did they ever even meet the deceased? I personally mentally prepare myself before walking in, making a list of appropriate comments in case they come in handy. Let’s face it, paying a shiva call is not anyone’s favorite mitzvah but keep in mind that each visit means a lot to the mourner.

Having said that, I think we can all use some guidelines for the next visit to a Shiva home.

Age – Do not ask it!

If I got a dollar for every time I was asked my mother’s age in the past several months, I would have a lot of charitable organizations knocking on my door.

Losing a loved one is painful, whether the deceased was 2, 20 or 120 is irrelevant.

Additionally, comments like “At least he/she lived a long life” are not comforting. I will never forget the expression of a family friend after I answered the age questions. He tilted his head and went into deep thought contemplating whether my mother was old enough. Needless to

say, it was a painful experience. Bottom line, leave the analysis of age and mortality to the actuary behind your life insurance plan.

Cause of

death –Do not dwell on

it.

Not everyone is comfortable discussing this, especially early on. Whether you are the head of research at UCLA’s oncology department or seeking to understand how to avoid a death of the same cause, a Shiva home is not a medical research lab. If the mourner does bring up the topic, avoid probing questions and comments like “My uncle had the same thing and he’s ok now”. Once again, those comments are not comforting.

An obituary is not an MLS listing.

What is going to be done with the deceased individual’s property is simply not your business. This rule applies even if your business is in fact residential real estate. I have heard of mourners getting offers on the house before burial (yes, before). On a similar note…

A Shiva house is not an open house.

Your place is on a seat across from the mourner. You should not be giving yourself a tour of the property or making comments about the home’s aesthetics or recommending renovations.

Grief is grief.

Do not try to comfort the mourner by downplaying the tragedy. Comments such as “He was ill for a long time”, “Don’t you feel some relief?”, “At least you have other kids”, “You need to keep busy to get over it” or “My dog died recently so I feel your pain” are… you guessed it…not appropriate.

EQ – Raise it.

A good level of emotional intelligence will come in handy at a Shiva house. Tune into the mourners’ emotions and pay attention to their body language. If you sense hesitancy, shifting, or fidgeting, it’s a good indication that the topic of conversation is not welcome. Remember, there is a fine line between being interested and being intrusive. If you sense inhibition in answering questions, don’t keep probing just to keep the conversation going. This brings me to the next point…

Silence is golden.

Do not confuse the silence at a Shiva home with the silence on a blind date. The silence is not awkward and it’s ok if you have nothing to say. Just the fact that you took the time from your busy schedule to visit means a lot to the mourner. Don’t feel obligated to talk about your recent knee surgery or issues that you are having with your new housekeeper just to avoid silence. There are Shiva homes that have a lively vibe to them and lighthearted conversation is welcome (if you’re wondering how anyone who just had a loss would be up for it, we will get to it in number 10), but once again, put your EQ at work and judge each situation independently.

Visitation hours –Respect them.

The week of shiva is mentally and physically draining on the mourners. Needless to say, the family needs some quiet time. If you need to visit outside of the designated visiting times, check with them before visiting.

Meals – The living get hungry.

Don’t assume someone else is taking care of it. Check to make sure meals are covered. Even better, just bring a meal or snacks when you visit. Check whether the family is in need of other necessities. I still remember the visitors who walked in with bag of groceries or close friends who checked to see what I needed before every visit.

That’s NOT all folks –End of Shiva is just the beginning.

Congratulations, you made a visit without making a tactless comment. You walked out thinking that they did not look too sad and within minutes you forget about the visit and go back to fo cusing on planning your son’s bar mitzvah. Keep in mind, most mourners don’t cry during shiva. It takes time for the real grief to kick in and losing a loved one is not something you recover from with in a few days or months. The grieving process is long and the loneliness kicks in after the shiva visitations are over and life’s rou tine takes over. Make an effort to be in touch and check in occa sionally. Reach out even if it is a simple “thinking of you” or “I’m here if you want to talk”. Trust me, it means a lot even if you don’t get a response.

So the next time that you visit a Shiva house, remember why you came and what kind of feeling you would like to leave the mourner with. After all, you do not want to contribute to the ‘dumbest comments’ competition.

“Having lost both parents, Orly Mohaber is interested in es tablishing grief support within our community. If you would like to of fer or receive support, or if you have any feedback, please reach out to her at orlak19@yahoo. com.”

Biale Rebbe of Bnei Brak Arrives in Los Angeles

ONE OF ISRAEL’S GREATEST RABBIS, RENOWNED FOR HUNDREDS OF PHENOMENAL MIRACLES

The Los Angeles residents are getting excited! The Rebbe is coming again. Hardly a year has passed since the Biale Rebbe of Bnei Brak has visited Los Angeles, yet hundreds are excitedly anticipating the return of their revered Rebbe. every year the sensation repeats itself. Every year when the Rebbe arrives at the house where he lodges, the place becomes a public source of attraction as hundreds of people of various standards and types gather. The street becomes a hive of activity as lawyers, doctors, lay leaders, rabbis, educators, ranging from Hassidic to modern orthodox mingle as they flock to the Rebbe’s house. From early morning until the small hours of the night the streets resound with miraculous tales of unnatural miracles seen and experienced firsthand as a result of the Rebbe’s blessing.

Everyone wants to understand, what is it that draws so many people to see the Biale Rebbe again and again? What is it that causes thousands of people from different backgrounds to seek the Rebbe? What is it that brings people with no semblance to Chassidim to cleave to the Rebbe with all their might, involving him in every move they take in life? At every occasion, be it happy or sad their first phone call is to include the Rebbe! What is it that unites young boys and elderly? What brings the famous ambassador of United States ,Mr. David Friedman, to visit the Rebbe? Many other prominent Rabbis and highly significant political figures from the American and Israeli government can be recognized amongst the Rebbe’s visitors anyplace between California, Florida, New York and New Jersey.

The shadchante is waiting for your phone call

A shy young couple waited to see the Rebbe. What was their story? The woman shared: “I was in shidduchim for years, and nothing was working out. Last year I heard that the Biale Rebbe was coming to New York. I made an appointment and waited along with everyone else. My turn came and I went in to the Rebbe, nervous with anticipation. The Rebbe told me, ‘Call the shadchante today; she’s waiting for your call.’ I had given up on calling shadchanim, but the Rebbe’s words gave me the push to try again. I decided to give it a chance and called a shadchante I knew. As soon as I called, the shadchante exclaimed, ‘Wow, it’s so bashert that you called now! I just got a name of a wonderful bachur who could be

perfect for you. But if you hadn’t called, I wouldn’t have thought of calling you!’ This phone call made with the Rebbe’s brachah brought me my shidduch, and b”H we’re happily married for a few months.”

Your match is close, very close, you have no idea just how close.

Another woman completes the above incident with a story of her own. I came to the Rebbe asking for a blessing for my daughter to find her destined. I just sat there and cried. The Rebbe said to me: “Don’t cry, your daughter’s match is very close. You have no idea just how close.” Several weeks passed and my daughter shares with me her good news. Baruch Hashem. Things start to get serious and before long we are celebrating her engagement to a wonderful boy. As my daughter relays the happenings of this shidduch I suddenly realize that this suggestion started on the very day the Rebbe said to me: “It’s close, very close. You have no idea just how close.”

Tatty, we’re going to have twins

Leil Shabbos in Los Angeles. A large crowd came to the main shul to participate in the Biale Rebbe’s tisch. A respectable-looking lawyer walked in with cartons of wines and beer. People were curious what this was about, and he shared: “A year ago I was at the Biale Rebbe’s tisch in this shul. The Rebbe gave out shirayim—arbes from a shalom zachor that was held at the tisch. The Rebbe gave me arbes in my hand and told me, ‘You will have twins.’ I was surprised, to say the least. A short while later there was good news. My ten-year-old son, who was at the tisch with me, told me, ‘Tatty, I know that we’re going to have twins!’ I forgot about the whole story, and my son reminded me of what the Biale Rebbe had said. Now I’m bringing l’chaim to celebrate the birth of our twins!”

I got engaged after the tisch

The story didn’t end there. A young man stood there and shared his story: “I was also at the tisch a year ago and got shirayim from the Rebbe. The Rebbe told me, ‘Mazel tov! You’re getting engaged!’ I was dating then and wasn’t at all sure where things were heading. After the Rebbe’s brachah ev-

erything went quickly, and ten days later we were engaged! Now I came to the tisch with my wife to get a brachah for the Rebbe for a happy life together.”

I was sure I was finished, but the Rebbe saved my life

When a person has a million dollars it’s not enough; they want more and more. Sometimes it works and sometimes… that happened to me. At a young age I joined my father’s business and right away I wanted the whole world: another property, another purchase. My portfolio grew, and the bank gave me loans and I continued buying and buying, until… one day the bank foreclosed my account, without advance warning. The bank saw that my income wasn’t exceeding my expenses and seized everything-everything. Nothing I said, none of the grand plans I had, nothing helped. I was embarrassed to leave my house. I ruined my life, I finished my father’s whole fortune that he worked on for decades… I was totally depressed. On Friday night I went to shul near my house and I saw a commotion outside. A guest came: the Biale Rebbe! There was going to be a tisch at my neighbor’s home. My neighbor practically forced me to come, promising it would be worth it. Before Kiddush the Rebbe spoke, and I felt he was talking to me. The Rebbe said that even when everything seems black, even when a Yid thinks he lost everything, if he strengthens his emunah then he’ll never be alone, and there is a way out of every situation. I felt that the Rebbe was talking only to me. To make a long story short, with the Rebbe’s brachah and help, I came to be one of the greatest sponsors of the Rebbe’s mosdos and got out of the deep muddle I was in. I am now back in real estate and I remember to give maaser from all of my profits. I thank Hakadosh Baruch Hu for sending the Rebbe to me to extricate me from my predicament.

THE REBBE SHLIT”A

Twenty-two years ago, The Rebbe was barely in his early thirties when the yoke of leadership of Biale Chassidus Bnei Brak was thrust upon him. His greatness and guidance reached far beyond the borders of Bnei Brak as the Rebbe chose to draw his brethren from all over the world close to him by encouraging and helping them. The Rebbe is leader and mentor of a most respectable chassidus which is centrally based in Bnei

Brak and has branches in Jerusalem, Beitar Eilit, Ashdod, Bet Shemesh and Modiin Eilit. This has added a new \old hue to the leadership of Biale chassidus. Every day hundreds of people from varying backgrounds, Sephardim and Ashkenazim alike. Ultra-orthodox and those who have just donned a kippa, from Cholon to Bat Yam, Beer Sheba to Eilat, all stream to one address. The Rebbe opened his door and his heart to the whole of klal yisrael. Welcoming them with his compassionate heart and warm smile. People enter his room carrying a heavy load of troubles and worries however when they leave they are lighthearted and hopeful.

Biale Chassidus’ holy lineage stems from a holy sage named Rabbi Yaakov Yitzchok from Peshischa. This revered tzaddik lived some two hundred years ago and was known to all as the “holy Jew” – ‘The Yid Hakadosh’ from Peshischa. He was a disciple of the holy “Chozeh of Lublin” who was a direct fourth descendent of the holy Baal Shem Tov. The Yid Hakodosh was the greatest of Polish Rabbis, Rabbi to the leaders of Gur, Kotzk, Alexander and other great luminaries. Generations of tzaddikim in succession continued the tradition of the “Yid Hakodosh”. This chain was continued from father to son until the flame was kindled in our generation by the holy tzaddik and Rebbe – Reb Yechiel Yehoshua from Biale, may his holy memory be blessed. He was the grandfather of our revered Rebbe, a direct descendent of five generation to the Yid Hakodosh.

The Chelkas Yehoshua

Prewar Poland boasted of the Rebbe’s grandfather, Reb Yechiel Yehoshua Ztk”l as one of its’ greatest leaders. However, his fame reached a pinnacle during the terrible holocaust when he uncompromisedly sanctified Hashem’s name, first in occupied Poland and later in the freezing Siberia. When he reached Israel all the great Rabbis acknowledged him as a great tzaddik. He was defied and honored as an angel in a mortal world.

The Lahavas Dovid

Next in line was the Rebbe’s father, the holy Rabbi Dovid Mattisyahu ztk”l. he was renowned and famous for his purity and greatness. During his lifetime his father appointed him as head of yeshivas Biale. During his travels throughout the world he

revived the broken hearted with his moving prayers and heartfelt talks. People were drawn to him from afar. His tall handsome profile reminded many of his holy father’s image.

The Rebbe continues to tow this beautiful golden chain. However, he does not suffice with leading his own community. He is concerned about the welfare of all of Klal Yisrael. Several times a year he leaves the comforts of his home and visits countries and communities where no other Chassidic Rebbe has ever there.

before. He embraces those who have strayed. He strengthens, encourages, motivates and directs until another Jew has found his way back to our Father in Heaven.

The Iron Swords War

If every year before Pesach the Rebbe is busy helping widows and orphans, this year, since the start of the war on October 7, the Rebbe can’t sleep at night. The Rebbe says Tehillim every day together with the yeshivah bachurim, so that the Biale chassidim finish the entire Tehillim every day on behalf of the hostages and soldiers, who are fighting for am Yisrael. Every day, soldiers on their way to battle come with their parents for a brachah from the Rebbe. The Rebbe takes their names and doesn’t stop davening for their safety.

Chizuk for Soldiers

Biale’s chessed organizations have been there for the soldiers since the start of the war. Biala followers arrived at the meeting places in the north and south with containers full of meat and delicacies and held barbecue’s for the soldiers with singing and dancing when, Every soldier received a large care package before leaving for battle. Biale friends from around the world also sent vital supplies for the sodiers. We all hope and pray that all the soldiers come home safely with victory for am Yisrael.

THE FATHER OF THE ORPHANS

The Rebbe’s institutions are famous throughout Israel. The center is based in Bnei Brak, and there are branches all over the country. However, his favorite project is

the welfare of “his” orphans. The Rebbe is father to fifteen biological children and countless of grandchildren. However, hundreds of children throughout the world call him “Father”. Amongst the many institutions which are under his auspices is the Rebbe leads 2 yeshivas in Beitar Ilit called “Mishnat Shimon “ and “Iyun Htorah”. Batei Midrash and kollels for young men are spread out in Bnei Brak, Jerulem, Beitar Eilit, Modiin Eilit, Ashdod and Beit Shemesh. However, the institution for widows and orphans are under the Rebbe’s direct administration. This fund supports the widows and orphans.

The desolate orphans receive everything they need of the best quality and quantity. This includes clothing, shoes, scholarship, dorm service and of course pocket money. All this is naught compared to the personal attention the Rebbe bestows upon them. As far as the Rebbe is concerned they are his fully adopted children. His house is their house, their worries become his own. The Rebbe is following after their studies and makes sure they have personal tutors Point in case - the Rebbe who had just returned from a trip to the USA one Erev Pesach told his driver to take him to visit his orphans directly from the airport. His own family and children can wait – his orphans come first. Upon his arrival the Rebbe gave each orphan gifts and pocket money enough for everything he needs for yom tov. Only then did he make his own way home to his family and yom tov preparations.

The Rebbe knows!

A couple enters the Rebbe’s chambers, both have written a request with their names and the names of their children. Each name had a different request. One was having trouble in school another needed help in his business. The Rebbe looks on the kvittel and tells the husband “you should take a walk with your wife once a week! if you will respect your wife your problems will be solved. The woman burst out crying. This is the first time they meet the Rebbe, and he is aware of everything going on between the couple. The Rebbe is unconcerned about the tens of people waiting outside and patiently expounds on the importance of domestic peace. The Rebbe gives them detailed instructions how to bring their hearts closer. The Rebbe tells them that the key to happiness and success as well as nachas from their children lies in the respect shown between the parents. And so, another cou-

ple exits with a happy smile on their faces. After a while the Rebbe’s secretary receives a note from the wife saying: the Rebbe saved our marriage!!!”

THE REBBE’S LODGING:

These days are happy days for the residents of Los Angeles as they are anxiously preparing to meet once again with their beloved Rebbe. The Rebbe will be staying in Los Angeles The Rebbe will be staying in Los Angeles from Wednesday November 6 until Wednesday November 20 at the house of the honorable host DR. & MRS. DAVID & and Dorothy Stoll, at 422 S. LAS PALMAS AVE, LOS ANGELES, CA 90020.

ONEG SHABBAT & TISH FRIDAY NIGHT IN PICO ROBERTSON ON NOVEMBER 8

ON Shabbos November 8 will be held an amazing “Oneg Shabbos” tisch which the Rabbi will hold Friday night. The great Shabbos will take place on Parshas Lech Lechu on the 8th of November 2024 At the HAPPY MINYAN 9311 W. PICO BLVD, at 8.30 pm.

A special occasion will be held Be”h on Motzai Shabbos at Havdala, people come from far and wide to join this special moments when the Rebbe shares his insights on the Shabbos that left us and for the beginning of a new week, with singing and holiness, when after the crowd has the merit to get wine remaining from the Havdalah cup that is a Segulah for a blessed week. Then everyone is invited for Melaveh Malkah.

Players of musical instruments are invited to bring their instruments.

The Havdalah and Melavah Malkah will be held Be”h at the residence of Mr. & Mrs. Motti & Fayge Slodowitz 1551 S CREST DRV, LOS ANGELES CA 90035 AT 8:30 pm.

NEG SHABBAT & TISH FRIDAY NIGHT IN HANCOCK PARK ON NOVEMBER 15

ON the second Shabbos November 15 will be held an amazing “Oneg Shabbos” tisch which the Rebbe will hold Friday night. The great Shabbos will take place on Parshas Vayera on the 15 of November 2024 At the BAIS HAMEDRASH LEVI YITZCHOK 365 N. LA BREA AVE, at 8.30 pm. There are still some people in Los Angeles who remember the Rebbe’s Holy Father, the previous Biale Rebbe Z”TZl. So it is now over 30 years that Rabbis of the community, Shtreimlech wearers, and modern Jews, have participated in Biale tishes.

The most special part of the tisch is during the famous kiddush which the Rebbe performs. It is well known that the Rebbe’s kiddush is capable of bringing about great miracles. The emotive singing and dancing at the Rebbe’s tischim elevating its participants to a standard of “maeyn oilam habah!” this will follow with an abundance of divrei torah and hashkafah.

B”eH due to the upcoming big wedding of the Rebbe’s youngest son on December 16 in Bnei Brak, The Rebbe will be in Los Angeles for a limited time. Please make sure you get your appointment on time!!

Now the residents of Los Angeles have this unique opportunity. If you have not yet had the merit of meeting the Rebbe and would like to book an appointment for a personal consultation a blessing or advice call the Rebbe’s private secretary now! (English speaking) telephone no. 917-272-4045.

Or send an email to bialebneibrak@gmail.com

Holocaust Survivor David Wiener Receives An Honorary Juris Doctor Degree

On Tuesday, October 22, 2024, Pepperdine University’s Caruso School of Law awarded 98-year-old Holocaust survivor David Wiener an honorary juris doctor degree during a ceremony at the Brock House on the Malibu campus. The event not only recognized Wiener’s remarkable life and resilience but also celebrated his lifelong dedication to Holocaust education.

Though he survived the horrors of Auschwitz and several labor camps during World War II, as recounted in his memoir Nothing to Lose But My Life, Wiener’s parents and all but one of his siblings were killed by the Nazis. Wiener immigrated to the United States in 1946, where he built a thriving upholstery business. Alongside his wife, also a Holocaust survivor, he contributed to various charitable organizations, including the Boys and Girls Club of Fontana, the US Holocaust Museum, and Hatzalah Israel. Wiener’s life of philanthropy and dedication to justice reflects the core values of Pepperdine, and the ceremony underscored the enduring importance of Holocaust remembrance.

In her opening remarks, chancellor Sara Young Jackson (’74) marked the significance of the occasion by highlight-

ing the rareness of holding events at the president’s residence and the infrequency of Pepperdine awarding honorary law degrees. She shared Wiener’s compelling life story and explained Pepperdine’s decision to award him with an honorary degree.

“Though this type of recognition is rare, when we learned of David Wiener’s extraordinary life story, we felt a deep conviction to honor him,” she said. “This moment is as uplifting for us as it is for him, and we are truly grateful for the opportunity to celebrate his remarkable journey.”

Prior to introducing Caruso School of Law dean Paul Caron and president Jim Gash (JD ’93), provost Jay Brewster outlined the criteria for receiving an honorary degree at Pepperdine, emphasizing the requirement of significant positive impact and alignment with the University’s values. He described Wiener as a determined survivor, a pillar of his community, and a devoted family man.

“A Pepperdine degree is a symbol of great value, and any candidate considered for an honorary degree must have made a significant, positive impact on their industry, community, or society as a whole,” Brewster said. “They must embody Pepperdine’s mission of purposeful servant leadership and uphold the values of sincere faith, lifelong learning, and a commitment to serving others and the common good. Today’s honoree has a life story that is far from ordinary and has demonstrated exceptional character in the face of unimaginable adversity.”

Caron highlighted Wiener’s philanthropic efforts, particularly his support for Jewish advocacy organizations and his recent trip to Israel to mark the opening of a medical center. Emphasizing Wiener’s embodiment of the Caruso School of Law’s values, Caron concluded by recommending him for the honorary juris doctor degree and gave President Gash the opportunity to formally confer the honor.

“Though David’s life story is extraordinary, the reason we are awarding him an honorary law degree today goes beyond survival— it’s about how he chose to live the life he was given,” shared Caron. “While David Wiener may not have attended the Caruso School of Law, he exemplifies the very values we seek to instill in our students—wisdom, creativity, perseverance, selflessness, and an unwavering commitment to justice for all. If he could overcome the horrors he endured as a boy to become the man he is today, then each of us should be inspired to dream bigger, work harder, and be more grateful for the many blessings we receive each day.”

President Gash then bestowed the honorary degree upon Wiener, acknowledging his perseverance and contributions to society.

“You have withstood unspeakable persecution and heartbreaking family loss, yet you have risen to become a loyal US citizen, a successful businessman, a proud patriarch, and a respected community leader. Through your personal story, kindness, compassion, mentorship, and unshakable passion for life, you have inspired countless others. You embody the values of the Caruso School of Law and Pepperdine University not only by advocating for peace, equality, and tolerance but by living those principles daily.”

Wiener took the podium to express deep gratitude for the honor and reflect on his story of survival. Though reluctant to revisit the horrors he endured, he stressed the importance of sharing his story with his children and the need to educate others, ensuring that the atrocities of the Holocaust are never forgotten.

“I want to thank each of you for being here and listening to my story,” Wiener said. “People need to remember—it’s important that we don’t forget. Too often, people forget, and the younger generations don’t always listen. It’s hard, but we have to face the truth to protect ourselves and others. I’m so grateful for all of you being here today.”

CTrader Joe’s Call To Action:

ODEPINK, a prominent anti-Israel group, is mobilizing their zombies to demand that TJ’s stop carrying Israeli products in their stores.

WE NEED TO COUNTER THIS EFFORT!

1. Contact Trader Joe’s Customer Relations by phone at 626-599-3817. YOU CAN LEAVE A MESSAGE AFTER HOURS. Say: Thank you for carrying Israeli products! I’m so appreciative that I am able to buy products made in Israel. AND

2. complete the online form at https://www.traderjoes.com/home/contact-us/product-feedback TYPE OF PRODUCT FEEDBACK: select PRODUCT KUDOS PRODUCT NAME type ISRAELI PRODUCTS

Skip all the other fields except SELECT YOUR STORE: Enter your zip code COMMENTS: Thank you for carrying Israeli products! I am so appreciative that I am able to buy products made in Israel. AND

3. Visit your nearest Trader Joe’s and buy these products made in Israel: Bamba Puffed Peanut & Corn Snacks (Original, Hazelnut Crème Filling, and Dark Chocolate dipped!), Dorot Gardens Crushed Garlic, Dorot Gardens Crushed Ginger, Trader Joe’s Israeli Feta Cheese, Givon Wine

By purchasing these products, EVEN JUST ONE, you are participating in a BUYCOTT (reverse boycott) to show support for Israeli businesses.

Emek’s Room Ambassador Breakfast

Emek’s room ambassadors met with Rabbi Mordechai Shifman, our Head of School, for an informative and inspirational break fast. They were treated to a beautiful meal as a show of gratitude for their service to Emek and to further encourage them in their endeavors as school representatives. Emek’s room ambassadors are chosen by the school administration to serve as liaisons between the administration, teachers and parents. Room ambassadors act as spokespersons for Emek and are essential in a variety of activities, including spearheading a welcoming committee for new families, assisting in the organization of meet-and-greets, class parties and events, field trips, Shabbatons and graduation celebrations, and proliferating information pertinent to the class. Additionally, Rabbi Shifman encouraged our room ambassadors to serve as team captains or assist the leaders in Emek’s upcoming All-In Annual 36-Hour Campaign, which is scheduled for December 17th and 18th. We wholeheartedly thank our room ambassadors for doing their part to ensure that our children receive the best possible educational experience, for keeping our parent body abreast of current information and for facilitating the realization of our school’s mission.

Events Epic

Fun-filled & easy to plan Group Outings at Urban Air Adventure Park

Whether you’re celebrating with your organization, sports team or looking for a unique venue for a corporate event, Urban Air is the perfect place to be! Urban Air can accommodate groups large and small with a full line-up of activities that every guest can enjoy. Be ready for an adventure you won’t soon forget!

Customize your event

For Immediate Release: Comic Book Author Arnon Z. Shorr Releases “The Beast and the Booth” Ahead of Jewish Book Month

Boston, MA – A new, Jewish comic book is about to debut, just in time for Jewish Book Month.

“The Beast and the Booth” is an all-ages werewolf story set during the holiday of Sukkot. It is the latest release from Arnon Z. Shorr, the innovative filmmaker and author whose work weaves Jewish characters and themes through popular mainstream genres. His latest release blends family, faith, and folklore against the backdrop of the holiday of Sukkot, offering readers a supernatural tale grounded in Jewish tradition.

“The Beast and the Booth” will debut on November 10, 2024, at the Jewish Comics Experience (JewCE) in Manhattan, where Arnon will also be present to meet fans and autograph books. JewCE, a unique gathering dedicated to celebrating Jewish comics,

presents an ideal platform for Arnon to share this latest addition to his repertoire of Jewish fiction. At the same convention last year, Arnon debuted another comic called “Brother’s Keeper”, a retelling of his grandfather’s war story from Israel’s 1948 War of Independence.

In the year since “Brother’s Keeper”, Arnon has been very busy, releasing several new, accessible, thought-provoking Jewish stories that span a variety of genres and appeal to diverse audiences. These new publications include a graphic novel of his adventure comic series, “Ben Mortara and the Thieves of the Golden Table”, where readers join a Jewish archaeologist’s quest for the lost Table of Solomon, and “Wayfarers”, a dystopian sci-fi novel inspired by the biblical Exodus.

With four new titles released in one year (plus a Hebrew edition of “Brother’s Keeper”), Arnon looks forward to keeping Jewish Book Month readers quite busy. “We all want to immerse ourselves in good stories,” Arnon says, “especially in a tough year like this one, it’s really important that we see ourselves in those stories: authentically Jewish characters that are neither victims nor nebbishy sidekicks, who can take us along on their adventures.”

Jewish Book Month, a cherished tradition since 1925, is celebrated in the weeks leading up to Chanukah, aiming to spotlight Jewish literature across North America. Sponsored by the Jewish Book Council, this month-long celebration includes author events, book fairs, and community reads, providing readers of all backgrounds with the op-

portunity to engage with Jewish culture and storytelling.

For media inquiries, review copies, or to schedule an interview with Arnon Z. Shorr:

Email: arnonshorr@gmail.com

Phone: 781-724-0581

Website: www.arnonshorr.com

Find “The Beast and the Booth” and other titles by Arnon Z. Shorr at http://tinyurl.com/shorrstore. Many of his books are also available on Amazon and wherever books are sold.

For more information on Jewish Book Month, visit Jewish Book Council at www.jewishbookcouncil.org.

ETTA and B’lev Ari’s One-of-a-Kind Sukkah Party

ETTA clients, staff, family members and supporters gathered for an uplifting Sukkah Party full of achdus and ahava on Chol Hamoed Tuesday, Oct. 22, in the brand-new sukkah at the Sohacheski Family Group Home in Valley Village.

The event was part of ETTA’s CONNECTIONS program, offering year-round social and recreational activities. Led by Leah Schachter, Director of Volunteers and Special Projects, the program features experts like yoga instructors, nature experts, trip leaders, and Sarah Manne, our beloved Jewish Life Specialist.

Before Sukkos, clients learned about the chag from ETTA’s Jewish Life Specialist, Sarah Manne, whose teaching enhanced everyone’s enjoyment of the festive, welcoming setting featuring delicious food and an amazing magic show.

The event was sponsored by the Block Family as an aliyas Neshama for their beloved son Ari Dovid Block, whose Torah learning and volunteer work with people with special needs is commemorated through the family’s B’lev Ari organization. Each person present felt the extra special inspiration and ruach that accompanies B’lev Ari’s involvement.

Lulav and Esrog Sellers Face Market Overload in LA This Sukkot Season

David Rogatsky

Ah, the great Sukkot shopping ritual: families piling into minivans, clutching their checklists, reviewing it twice. And of course, the men are ready to hunt for that perfect Lulav and Esrog set. It’s the time-honored scramble through tables stacked with branches and citrus, the annual debate over whether a pitom is worth the extra twenty bucks, and the thrill of finding that Esrog with just the right color, shape, and smell.

But this year, in Jewish LA’s Lulav and Esrog scene, a curious thing happened. There were too many vendors. And instead of making it easier for everyone to grab their four species, this overabundance led to an unexpected twist in the holiday market.

We caught up with Josh Pachter, a seasoned Lulav and Esrog seller who has been dealing in the holy produce for years. According to Josh, this year’s market saw a flood of new sellers, each trying to carve out a slice of what they assumed was a lucrative niche. The results were… well, a little chaotic.

“Everywhere you looked, there was someone selling,” Josh explained, shaking his head. “And it’s not like the demand increased tenfold overnight. It’s the same community, the same families needing their Lulav and Esrog. But suddenly, you’ve got all these new sellers popping up, trying to undercut each other. It was like an Esrog bazaar.”

According to Josh, the flood of

new sellers disrupted the usual balance of the Lulav and Esrog market, creating a sense of chaos instead of community. “Usually, there’s a certain flow, a rhythm to how these things go,” he said. “People come back to the same sellers year after year because they know what they’re getting. This year, you had a lot of people who weren’t regulars trying to jump in, and it threw everything off.”

they don’t want to wade through a circus to get it.”

As we look forward to next year’s Sukkot, perhaps the influx of vendors will have learned the value of balance. Until then, we’ll see if the Lulav and Esrog landscape in LA returns to normal—or if it will be another wild ride in the holiday marketplace.

He explained that the over-saturation led to unnecessary competition. “People were cutting prices left and right, just trying to make a sale,” Josh noted. “It took away from the experience. Normally, people come with a sense of purpose, looking for something special. This year, it felt rushed, almost transactional. The essence of the mitzvah felt a little lost in all that hustle.”

And then there was the problem of too much competition. With each vendor trying to outdo the next on pricing, many sellers found themselves with surplus stock. “We ended up with leftover Lulavim and Esrogim that we’d usually sell out of,” Josh explained. “People were trying to go cheaper and cheaper, but that doesn’t help when you’ve got three guys on the same block selling the same thing.”

So, what’s the lesson from this year’s Lulav and Esrog frenzy? According to Josh, it’s about quality over quantity. “The community here knows what it wants,” he said. “They’re willing to pay for a beautiful, kosher set, and

Touro University Launches Physician Assistant Program in Los Angeles

Los Angeles, CA – [September 27, 2024] – Touro University is launching a new Physician Assistant (PA) program in Los Angeles, with the first cohort scheduled to begin in January 2025. The PA program in L.A. will be operated by Touro University California.

The Physician Assistant field is one of the fastest-growing and in-demand professions and is at the forefront of healthcare. Physician assistants

work in primary care, emergency medicine or countless number of medical and surgical specialties, including cardiology, pediatrics, neurosurgery, orthopedics, psychiatry and dermatology. They diagnose illnesses, develop and manage treatment plans, prescribe medications and often serve as a patient’s principal caregiver.

Dr. Alan Kadish, President of Touro University said, “This exciting new program marks an expansion in Touro’s mission to provide top-tier health science education tailored to the needs of religious students and the wider community. With seven PA programs in New York, Illinois, Nevada and California, Touro is a powerhouse in the education and training of these skilled and dedicated professionals.”

Touro College Los Angeles (TCLA) offers a Health Science Concentration that serves as a pathway to

Shalom Bayit

Lech Lecha

You call around town to find the cheapest tooth extraction. You finally find them: 1st year dental students do it dirt cheap. You book an appointment for…. your wife. Your wife of course objects, but you say that you in fact have your dental work done there too. So why can’t she also help the family? The question is rather broad: you want your wife to do or not do something -your wife thinks that you’re controlling. After Abraham wins a war in ךלָ ךלָ he’s offered the spoils as has been the custom. He rejects the offer for himself, but adds that his rejection does not preclude his soldiers entitlement to the spoils.1 Abraham is teaching us that if

we want to be extra frugal, extra strict, extra frum – we should do it at our own expense, not that of others. You get your dental work performed with interns and your wife can choose her own dentist 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

admissions in this PA program and other health science programs. “Graduates of TCLA who meet all the admission criteria are guaranteed an interview for the new Touro Los Angeles PA program. In the past, our health science grads had to choose between leaving town to attend a Touro health science graduate program with all of its advantages for religious students or attending a local, non-Touro program in order to remain in town with family support and a network of friends. Now, our students will be able to stay in the community and pursue their professional dreams right here in L.A. We are proud to have one TCLA graduate in the inaugural class and look forward to many more in the future,” said Rabbi Dr. David Jacobson, dean of TCLA Newman Hoffman, interim CEO of Touro University California (TUC) shared his vision for the program, “Our

goal is to create a rigorous, supportive, and innovative learning environment that prepares our students to excel as healthcare professionals. We are committed to fostering an academic community that upholds Touro’s values and standards and will prepare students for professional opportunities in clinical medicine.”

In addition to pre-Health Sciences, TCLA offers degrees in Business, Psychology, and Jewish Studies. TCLA welcomes transfer students and offers generous financial aid for those who qualify. To learn more about the health sciences pathway or any of the TCLA programs, visit tcla.touro.edu or contact admit.tcla@touro.edu or 323-8229700.

For more information about the Touro University Physician Assistant Program in Los Angeles, please contact tuc.admit@touro.edu

Bringing Security To Our Homes

Shmira Public Safety is rallying the Pico-Robertson community to support a new licensed, armed security patrol initiative. With enough monthly subscribers, Shmira aims to fund 24/7 patrols to enhance neighborhood safety. Residents are encouraged to join one of two informational Zoom meetings on November 10 or November 12 to learn more about the program, ask questions, and sign up. This is a chance for the community to take an active role in securing their homes and streets. To register, visit https:// givebutter.com/pico-patrol. Or scan here: