The South Florida Community Voice- December 19 by The South Florida Community Voice

FROM DARKNESS TO LIGHT

5TH

Chanukah Tastes Better with Breakstone’s Butter

If you’re going to make it from scratch, make it the best.

Breakstone’s butter brings out the pure flavor and flaky texture that everyone loves in Chanukah cookies and treats.

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

Let’s Talk About It

This week’s parashah, Vayeishev features the famous story of Yosef and his brothers. Why didn’t the brothers speak to Yosef? Why didn’t they tell him what was bothering them? Yosef has his dreams, wears a coat of many colors, and his brothers are jealous of him: “And they hated him, and they could not speak with him peacefully.”

How did they get into such a mess? Some commentators claim that the siblings’ feud with its severe outcome resulted from their silence and distance from each other. There are occasions when it is acceptable to sweep certain, small issues under the carpet and not deal with them, but when there is an increasingly serious dispute and the two sides are moving apart, there is no reason to suffer in silence. It is best to speak frankly. Both sides should air their grievances in order to ensure that the problem is not covered by a blanket of silence. The same holds true for the different sectors and tribes within the Jewish people, relationships between siblings, and also between husband and wife. It is no coincidence that in his words of wisdom in Kohelet, Shlomo HaMelech teaches us, “a time to speak,” followed by “a time to love.”

The Latest News

I’d like to draw attention to this column’s tagline, which promises a

By Sivan Rahav Meir

“glimpse into the Israel you won’t read about in the news.” That’s a point that I feel deserves more emphasis. It seems that for most of today’s news providers, nothing short of a rowdy demonstration, a fight on Twitter, or a sharp exchange in the Knesset is considered newsworthy. Yet, I am seeing, daily, so many events demonstrating unity throughout the Jewish world! Here is a short roundup from the week or so:

• Yet another emotional brit milah ceremony was held last week in the Ukraine for two Jewish men, aged 70 and 30. Apparently over 1,000 Jews in the Ukraine and Russia have recently become aroused to embrace their Jewish heritage, and have accordingly undergone a brit milah as adults (because their parents felt it was too risky during the Communist

era). It just goes to show you: It’s never too late!

• In a similar spirit, many reservists here in Israel have decided to celebrate their bar mitzvahs. More and more videos have been circulating on social media of men who were not called up to the Torah at age 13, and now, because of the war and their confrontation with evil, they want to reconnect to their roots. Their friends are organizing bar mitzvah celebrations for them, complete with the throwing of candies and a festive meal.

• Massive prayer gatherings are taking place almost every day. A family will inaugurate a new sefer Torah in memory of a war hero, and the entire city will celebrate together with them. This past week, popular Israeli singer Yishai Lapidot initiated a hachnasat sefer Torah in Petah Tikva in memory of Miron Gersh, an only child, who fell in battle in Gaza. Hundreds of people from all sectors of society came to dance with the Torah and with Miron’s parents.

• Many memorable events have been hosted by the shul in Kibbutz Be’eri, the symbol of the October 7 massacre. Last week, Avida Bachar, head of the kibbutz’s agriculture department, spoke at a memorial service for his friend, Yossi Sharabi, whose body is still being held in Gaza. Avida, who lost his wife and son on Simchat Torah, gave a moving eulogy,

which went viral, calling on people to put their families before their careers.

• Far from Be’eri, another video was filmed, showing Rabbi Daniel Alter of the Pnei Menachem community crying at the graves of the tzaddikim in Europe and pleading for the return of the hostages. So many Israelis watched this Hasidic rabbi crying and cried along with him.

• A great deal has been written about the trauma experienced by the survivors of the Nova festival and of the importance of providing them with the support they need. But what you may not have read is that hundreds of survivors have been participating in Shabbat and Yom Tov celebrations arranged by the Kesher Yehudi organization. They call their community, “From Nova to Jerusalem” and many young people have been joining them as part of their rehabilitation process. Having spent several Shabbatot with them, I can say that they are creating a new language of rebirth and renewal.

• You can get a sense that something special is happening among today’s youth from the posts of Yagel Yaakov, the boy from Kibbutz Nir Or who was released from captivity in Gaza. Yagel announced that he is keeping Shabbat and will no longer be available on social media on this holy day. He posted a video of himself writing a letter in a Torah scroll and also said that he has begun to wear tzitzit. In his latest video, he exclaims: “You don’t have to be dati to be Jewish!”

The individuals involved in the above stories don’t have spokespeople, nor do they represent any organizations; it is simply the situation on the ground. How ridiculous to present Judaism as a divisive force, rather than the precious thread binding us together!

Translated by Yehoshua Siskin, Janine Muller Sherr Want to read more by Sivan Rahav Meir? Google The Daily Thought or visit sivanrahavmeir.com

Avida Bachar from Kibbutz Be’eri

Yagel Yaakov

Amidst Reports On Hostage Deal, 2 Ex-Hostages Raise Awareness In West Palm Beach Fundraiser

At New Kosher Restaurant Grand Opening

Two ex-hostages who were held in captivity in Gaza for nearly a year after being kidnapped at the Nova Music Festival in Israel arrived in West Palm Beach to meet with the local community and share their story. Amid reports of negotiations to release the remaining hostages, rescued hostages Almog Meir Jan and Andrey Kozlov are determined to raise awareness for the issue.

Michelin star chef Eyal Shani held the grand opening of his brand-new Malka kosher restaurant in West Palm Beach on Sunday, in collaboration with La’Aretz Foundation.

The former hostages discussed the harsh conditions in which Hamas terrorists kept them in for eight months, along with the vitality of an imminent hostage deal. The two were kidnapped during the Nova Music Festival and spent eight months in captivity in Gaza until they were rescued by the IDF in June. Jan was attending the festival with friends, while Kozlov was a volunteer security guard.

“We felt it was vital for the residents of South Florida to hear what the hostages experienced and are still currently experiencing,” La’Aretz Foundation founder Shelly Pitman said. “We are thankful to Chef Eyal Shani, who graciously hosted the La’Aretz community

once again. This outstanding community understands how critical each day is for the remaining hostages, and we must bring them home now.”

In an emotional discussion with Netflix star Maya Vander of “Selling Sunset,” Jan and Kozlov detailed the physical and psychological trauma they endured while in captivity. The audience was silent as the two explained in excruciating detail what October 7th was like for them and the days and months after, along with the moment IDF soldiers came to rescue them.

“In order to build the country, people immigrated – made Aliyah to Israel from across the world – basically drying swamps and building the country. This is what La’Aretz is doing now. It is the equivalent of the drying swamps of 100 years ago,” Ambassador Maor Elbaz-Starinsky, Consul General of Israel in Miami, said. “La’Aretz is the modern Zionism – to develop a great education system and support soldiers and reservists in need. Of course, rebuild the communities in the north and the south and help the internally displaced people from

“M,” an Israeli soldier in a classified unit who is a singer, captured the hearts of the audience during La’Aretz Foundation’s fundraiser at Malka West Palm Beach.

Photo credit: Shay Cohen

the north and south. The way this community has rallied together, has come together to support our people and the State of Israel is just unimaginable.”

An IDF soldier who serves in a classified role and is also a singer who has captured the hearts of Israelis since October 7th. “M,” as he is known, performed several songs with his face covered to protect his identity in his American debut.

While cherishing the allnew Floridian menu created by the Michelin star chef, guests supported La’Aretz Foundation, which provides direct assistance

Almog Meir Jan (right) speaks about his eight months in captivity in Gaza with fellow ex-hostage Andrey Kozlov (middle) in a discussion with Maya Vander during La’Aretz Foundation’s fundraiser at Malka West Palm Beach.

Photo credit: Shay Cohen

Andrey Kozlov (center) speaks about the rescue operation that saved his life with Almog Meir Jan (right) in a discussion with Maya Vander during La’Aretz Foundation’s fundraiser at Malka West Palm Beach.

Photo credit: Shay Cohen

COMMUNITY NEWS

to Israelis in need.

La’Aretz Foundation and its vibrant community of over 2,000 members has provided direct financial support for 300plus Israeli families who have been impacted by October 7th, along with scholarships to 172 students serving in the reserves, and assisted 70 Aliyah applicants return to Israel.

ABOUT LA’ARETZ FOUNDATION:

La’Aretz Foundation strengthens Israel through direct support by focusing on three fundamental areas. In times of need, La’Aretz provides timely financial aid to families in distress who lack government support, offers scholarships to ensure equal educational opportunities, and facilitates the integration of new Olim to make them feel at home.

Sunshine Circle’s 3rd Annual Thanksgiving Dinner for Seniors in Broward County

This year, Sunshine Circle hosted its 3rd Annual Thanksgiving Dinner for seniors in Broward County, bringing together the community for an unforgettable evening of connection, celebration, and gratitude. The event has become a cherished tradition, and this year’s gathering was especially meaningful as it welcomed many seniors, including Rosa, a remarkable 101-year-old Senior, whose inspiring presence touched everyone in the room.

The evening kicked off with a delicious meal, lovingly prepared by our volunteers and served to the seniors. The spread included a variety of Thanksgiving favorites, offering both comfort and joy to the guests. It was a time to share stories, enjoy the company of friends, and give thanks for the good fortune of being together.

In addition to the meal, the event featured a lively atmosphere with games that had everyone laughing and engaged. These activities were designed to bring out the fun and lightheartedness in everyone, fostering connections and a sense of belonging among the attendees.A special treat for the evening was the live guitar performance by one of our talented volunteers. The soothing melodies of the guitar filled the room, creating an intimate and festive atmosphere.

This year’s Thanksgiving dinner was a testament to the sense of community and love

that Sunshine Circle has built over the years. As we reflect on the success of our 3rd Annual Thanksgiving Dinner, we are filled with gratitude for the opportunity to create such meaningful experiences for our senior neighbors. The event not only provided a delicious meal but also offered a chance for connection and celebration, ensuring that no senior had to spend Thanksgiving alone.

Sunshine Circle is deeply committed to supporting seniors in Broward County, and we look forward to continuing this tradition for years to come, making each Thanksgiving dinner even more memorable and heartwarming.

םויכ תלעופה ”ץראל ריאמה”

תונידמ 631-ב םלועה יבחרב

םיינרות םינכת תמסרפמו .תופש 5ל םימגרותמה

הליהקב ומשרנ םישגרמ םיעגר

ברה ךרע רשאכ ימאימב תידוהיה הליפתו קוזיח תרצע א”טילש

הטועפה לש התאופרל תדחוימ

תחפשמל הנח ןח תב הנרוא ינלה

הירוהו ,הכירבב העבט רשא ,ארזע

םישמ םניא התחפשמ ינבו תעה לכ םיללפתמו התטיממ דבלמ תאז .הרהמב התמלחהל ורסמנש םירועישה תשדקה .הרהמב המלשה התאופרל

םינומה ,עסמה םות םע

א”טילש ברה תא וויל הליהקה

הרקוה ישגר וינפב ועיבהש

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with wit and rousing dazzle, inform, delight, Yehonatan inscribed on whose historical of great comment and of the October 7, 2023, Am Yisrael Chai, “The Jewish people Barber persuasively credits creation of this rallying Reb Yehonatan wrote it

Wise, incisive, and bursting with wit and rousing conviction...the stories dazzle, inform, delight, and challenge... Reb Yehonatan inscribed on amulets a powerful phrase whose historical origin has been the source of great comment and curiosity in the aftermath of the October 7, 2023, Hamas attacks. The phrase: Am Yisrael Chai, which is often translated as “The Jewish people will live for eternity.” Barber persuasively credits Reb Yehonatan with the creation of this rallying cry, and he calculates that Reb Yehonatan wrote it almost 46,000 times.

Wisdom

“From storied Kabbalist Rabbi Yehonatan Eybeshitz. Illuminating & engaging…profound…rewarding.”

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Pearls of Wisdom

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storied Kabbalist Rabbi Yehonatan Eybeshitz. Illuminating & engaging…profound…rewarding.”

and bursting with wit and rousing conviction...the stories dazzle, inform, delight, challenge... Reb Yehonatan inscribed on powerful phrase whose historical been the source of great comment and the aftermath of the October 7, 2023, attacks. The phrase: Am Yisrael Chai, translated as “The Jewish people eternity.” Barber persuasively credits Yehonatan with the creation of this rallying calculates that Reb Yehonatan wrote it times.

Wisdom

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eybeshitz.com

bursting with wit and rousing dazzle, inform, delight, Yehonatan inscribed on phrase whose historical source of great comment and aftermath of the October 7, 2023, phrase: Am Yisrael Chai, translated as “The Jewish people Barber persuasively credits the creation of this rallying that Reb Yehonatan wrote it

eybeshitz.com

Pearls of Wisdom

... A great Talmudist and Kabbalist of the 18th century, translated into English at last.» --Book Life Reviews

... A great Talmudist and Kabbalist of the 18th century, translated into English at last.»

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... A great Talmudist and Kabbalist of the 18th century, translated into English at last.»

--Book Life Reviews

Pearls of Wisdom

... A great Talmudist and Kabbalist of the 18th century, translated into English at last.»

--Book Life Reviews

COMMUNITY NEWS

Operation Inspiration: Optical Delusions

Have you ever had this experience?

You’re sitting on a train or bus, and out the window you see another train or bus facing the opposite direction. You feel the train start to move, but suddenly, you realize that the scenery around you hasn’t changed. The stores are still there and the station is right where it was before.

It turns out that you never started moving. Instead, the other train moved, giving you the illusion of motion. The rumbling of the stationary train provides enough sensation that when you get the visual clue of the other train moving forward, you can imagine that it’s still where it was parked, and it’s you who had begun moving forward.

Far from an unusual phenomenon, I think most of us have had experiences where our eyes were playing tricks on us, and our brains saw what they wanted to see. Optical illusions take advantage of the predilections of our brains to make sense of the world around us and of the shortcuts they take.

I had an interesting experience one day – where else? At the supermarket.

I pulled into the parking lot and noticed a large, white SUV who had not parked well. Their rear end was sticking out from the line of parked cars, into the area where other cars are supposed to drive. I began to shake my head in disgust, or at least, in pity, for the clearly handicapped driver, but then I noticed something which made me change direction.

Not physically, of course, but intellectually. What happened was that I noticed the white SUV was actually parked correctly in the spot. However, the car next to it was pulled too far forward, so his front end was overlapping the line separating it from the head-to-head parking space across

By Rabbi Jonathan Gewirtz

from it. Other cars must have followed suit, so a number of them were pulled too far forward, making the SUV appear to be too far back.

It gave me pause. Here, I was judging the driver’s skills based on what I saw, but in reality, my mind was playing tricks on me. It showed me something wrong (the other cars) and convinced me it was right. Once I did that, I looked at what was right and became sure it was wrong!

It made me consider other times when my mind fools me. It’s not just optical illusions; there are many times our minds fool us. The thing is, often, they have help. When people feel a certain way about things, they give them a concreteness. People become attached to certain behaviors and consider them correct, even if they might not be. Then, the people who are doing the right thing become the outliers.

Imagine people joining the Kiddush Club in shul. They could be inside listening to the words of the Navi in the Haftarah, but they choose to grab a l’chaim and some herring instead. Now, what if they go over to someone who remained inside and said, “You don’t know what you’re missing!” Clearly, they are the ones who don’t know what they’re missing, but it becomes not just a habit, but a holy pursuit to them.

When people conduct business and don’t pay workers or vendors on time, they feel it’s the normal way to work. One who pays promptly and feels obliged to not only fulfill the mitzvos of paying on time, but to show appreciation for those workers or vendors by being prompt, is looked at like a fool who doesn’t know how to maximize his money.

I’m sure you can find many examples where the people around you redraw boundaries in a way that’s truly crossing the line. They think they are correct and whoever doesn’t agree and live up to their opinions and beliefs is trampling on the rights of others. Ironically, it is they who are doing the trampling, and the optical delusion is caused by the way they see things.

There are lines in a parking lot, though over time they can get faded, like the ones where I saw the white SUV. It makes it harder for people to see them, and if they’re not looking closely, they can miss them. Similarly, the Torah has rules and guidelines so we know where to go and how to live. When those lines start to become blurred or we’re not viewing them at the proper angle, it’s easier to end up crooked.

Because of this, we should be aware of our surroundings and double-check where we settle in. The behaviors we choose and the habits we build will impact our vision and possibly distort the truth so we see things the way we want to. Therefore, we need to watch carefully to make sure we’re staying in the lines and “train”ing ourselves to do the right thing.

Did you enjoy this column? Feedback is welcome and appreciated. E-mail info@JewishSpeechWriter.com to share your thoughts. You never know when you may be the lamp that enlightens someone else.

Young Israel of Hollywood-Ft. Lauderdale Joins Forces with The Butterfly Project to Honor the Lives of Children Lost in the Holocaust

On Sunday, February 2, 2025, from 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM, Young Israel of Hollywood-Ft. Lauderdale will host a profoundly moving event in partnership with The Butterfly Project and sponsored by MIY Ceramics and Glass Studio. Together, they will honor the 1.5 million children who perished during the Holocaust by creating a memorial mural of ceramic butterflies—a testament to hope, resilience, and remembrance.

The Butterfly Project is an educational initiative aimed at teaching the world about the Holocaust through art. At its heart is the poignant goal of memorializing the 1.5 million children who tragically lost their lives during this dark chapter of history. Participants paint ceramic butterflies that symbolize transformation, resilience, and hope, inspired by the haunting poem “The Last Butterfly” written by a young prisoner in a Nazi concentration camp.

This symbolic act of creativity not only commemorates these innocent lives but also serves as a powerful tool for fostering dialogue, reflection, and learning. By engaging people in hands-on activities, the project brings history to life, ensuring that the lessons of the Holocaust resonate with future generations.

The event, open to adults and children ages 9 and up, will be

held in the Young Israel of Hollywood-Ft. Lauderdale Social Hall. Participants will receive the bio of a child who perished in the Holocaust and paint a ceramic butterfly in their memory.

Each butterfly, unique and vibrant, will be part of a collective memorial mural displayed at the shul. This mural will serve as a lasting tribute to the children’s lives, reminding our communi-

ty of the importance of remembrance and the resilience of the human spirit.

The Holocaust represents one of the darkest periods in human history and through initiatives like The Butterfly Project, communities worldwide are given the tools to confront and reflect on these atrocities in a meaningful way. For all participants, painting a butterfly

COMMUNITY NEWS

is more than an art project—it is an act of remembrance and a commitment to ensuring such tragedies are never repeated.

The butterfly, as a symbol, carries profound meaning. It represents transformation and hope— qualities we associate with life and growth, even in the face of unimaginable adversity. By engaging in this activity, participants not only honor those lost but also carry forward the lessons of resilience and the importance of standing against hate.

To join this meaningful event, register by January 17, 2025, at yih.org/butterflyproject. The cost is $36 per butterfly, and all participants’ names will be listed alongside the mural.

For those who wish to contribute further, sponsorship

opportunities are available:

Legacy Sponsor: $720

Guardian Sponsor: $360

Monarch Sponsor: $180

The event will be led by Sandy Goldglantz, a talented artist, dedicated educator, and the the driving force behind bringing The Butterfly Project to Young Israel of Hollywood-Ft. Lauderdale. With 22 years of experience teaching art and Holocaust studies in the Broward County public school system, Sandy blends her passion for art and her deep personal connection to Holocaust education. As the child of Holocaust survivors, Sandy’s art has served as both her voice and her solace, often reflecting her experiences, including in her acclaimed solo exhibition, “Hiding Places.” A graduate of FIT in New York and FIU in South

Florida, Sandy has worked with renowned designers like Alexander Julian and Calvin Klein and illustrated for leading fashion publications. Since 2001, she has dedicated herself to teaching Holocaust education to elementary students and developed age-appropriate curriculums for teachers. In 2020, Sandy brought The Butterfly Project—a global memorial to the 1.5 million children who perished during the Holocaust—to South Florida. Through her leadership, YIH is contributing to this worldwide initiative, creating ceramic butterflies as a lasting and meaningful tribute. Sandy also offers private and small-group art lessons, continuing to inspire others with her creativity and passion.

For more information, contact Melissa Leonard at 954-966-7877 or melissa@yih.org

YESHIVAT TORAT YOSEF

YESHIVA OF MIAMI

Yeshivat Torat Yosef PreK Students are moving strongly ahead with both Alef Bet and Alphabet.

Rabbi Ephraim Eliyahu Shapiro, Rov of Congregation Shaaray Tefilah in North Miami Beach, Sharing Divrei Bracha. Rabbi Sharagi Leizerson, 11th Grade Rebbe, is on the right.

Chapping a Few Minutes of Learning before Shachris

Rabbi Avrohom Rakow, 12th Grade Rebbe, Addressing the Oilam at a Siyum upon Completion of the First Perek of Makkos

Rabbi Ephraim Eliyahu Shapiro, Rov of Congregation Shaaray Tefilah in North Miami Beach (L) with Rabbi Dovid Wechsler, Rosh Mesivta/Head of School

Rabbi Yossi Marlowe, Rov of Bais Menachem in North Miami Beach, Addressing the Oilam

WIZO KOSHER FOOD & WINE EVENT

HEALING HEARTS CHANUKAH TOY DRIVE

Credit: Elon Kornblum, Great Kosher

and corrected, mostly on the spot. This is a Free sponsored program

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Brigade 551: Stories of Battle, Brotherhood, and Legacy

A Teacher, a Commander, and the Weight of Leadership

September 2024. Late at night, we’re sitting in the southern Golan Heights, participating in a workshop for processing combat experiences. Similar workshops have been attended by many members of Brigade 551, designed to help soldiers reflect on and process the weight of their combat experiences—of which there were many.

Across from me sits Netzer, a seasoned company commander, husband, and father of three. Netzer, who serves as a teacher and deputy principal in a school in Afula, shares his stories with me, wearing a shirt emblazoned with the logo “Effect”. I couldn’t resist asking about it. “Effect was our company’s radio call sign,” Netzer explains. “During the war, it became something of a symbol—a brand we couldn’t ignore. It represents our spirit as a company: no matter how difficult or grueling the mission, we take it on with commitment, positivity, and a smile.”

Beyond the battles, stories of weapons uncovered, and tales of bravery, what stood out to me most was Netzer’s ability to embody both the roles of educator and commander. I’ve chosen to share a few moments that reflect this duality.

During the intense fighting in Beit Hanoun, a radio message broke the airwaves: a mass-casualty event had struck the reconnaissance company. Four of our best fighters were lost in that tragic incident—something I’ve already shared in a previous chapter.

Netzer’s company was the first to arrive and assist in evacuating and treating the wounded. “After the incident, morale was low,” Netzer recalls. “I immediately gathered the team for individual conversations. I went from crew to crew, explaining what had happened and addressing their fears.”

I asked why it was so critical at that moment. Netzer paused and explained with candor: “I promised my soldiers two things: the first, that we would accomplish the military missions assigned to us. The second, that I would do everything in my power to bring them home safely, alive and whole. If I feel I can’t uphold both, I take responsibility to stop and reassess.”

His honesty and sincerity struck me deeply. Netzer rebuilt trust, face-to-face, restoring faith in the command team. The very next day, the company completed an incredibly complex mission with precision and success.

Credit: G. E., 551 Operational Photographer

The Booby-Trapped Building in Beit Hanoun

Later, Netzer’s company was reassigned to operate under Brigade 14, a tank brigade conducting operations in Sheikh Radwan. Their mission was defensive—patrolling and sweeping areas already secured. While sifting through suspected zones, Netzer’s company encountered constant anti-tank fire, a routine risk by that stage of the war.

During one particular sweep, Netzer received orders to check an area for possible captives or missing soldiers. “As we advanced, I suddenly heard an explosion,” Netzer recounts. “I tried reaching the tank crew on the radio—no response. The tank was still in place. I approached, calling out to them, but still nothing. We climbed onto the tank, pulling at the hatches, but they wouldn’t budge. Finally, I managed to open the rear hatch, and we saw what had happened: the tank had taken a direct hit, and part of the crew was wounded, while two of our friends had been killed.”

Netzer describes the moment with a heaviness in his voice: “I opened the hatch and found Arye, lifeless. Despite the danger, we worked to evacuate him, under fire and at great risk.”

The Price of Brotherhood

On December 24, 2023, during that battle, we lost two dear tank soldiers:

• Major (Res.) Arye Rein, who left behind a wife and three children. May his memory be blessed.

• Nitai Mizels, who left behind his parents and three siblings. May his memory be blessed.

These stories are but glimpses into the moments commanders like Netzer face—the weight of responsibility, the bond of brotherhood, and the courage to lead, teach, and inspire even in the hardest of times.

Credit: G. E., 551 Operational Photographer Tanks in the brigade’s migenan on the morning of the ceasefire.

unit 551- Major (Res.) Arye Rein

Unit 551- Nitai Mizels

The Tank Ambush in Sheikh Radwan

Unexplained Fatigue: Medical Conditions to Check.

By Dr. Sarah Rosanel, Medical Concierge Doctor in Miami, Florida

Fatigue can significantly impact daily life, and when it persists without an obvious cause, it may be linked to underlying medical conditions.

What if you already have a regular sleep schedule, healthy diet, and frequent exercise, less caffeine during the day and nocaffeine at night but you are still exhausted? What are the medical diagnoses linked to unexplained fatigue that should not be overlooked?

1. Anemia

Iron deficiency, vitamin B12, or folate deficiencies can lead to persistent tiredness.

• Tests to consider: Blood tests for iron levels, vitamin B12, and folate.

2. Hypothyroidism

An underactive thyroid gland can slow metabolism, causing fatigue.

• Tests to consider: Thyroid function tests, including TSH, T3, and T4 levels.

3. Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS)

This condition involves severe, prolonged fatigue without an identifiable cause.

• Tests to consider: Clinical diagnosis after ruling out other causes.

4. Sleep Apnea

Sleep disorders, like obstructive sleep apnea, disrupt restful sleep and lead to daytime fatigue.

• Tests to consider: Sleep studies

(polysomnography).

5. Depression

Fatigue and low energy are common symptoms of depression.

• Tests to consider: Assessment by a mental health professional.

6. Diabetes

Poorly controlled blood sugar levels can cause tiredness and lethargy.

• Tests to consider: Fasting blood glucose and HbA1c.

7. Cardiovascular Conditions

Heart conditions, such as heart failure, may result in fatigue due to reduced oxygen delivery to tissues.

• Tests to consider: Electrocardiogram (ECG), echocardiogram.

8. Chronic Infections

Persistent infections like mononucleosis can contribute to longterm fatigue.

• Tests to consider: Blood tests to detect chronic infections.

When to Seek Help If fatigue is interfering with your quality of life or is accompanied by other concerning symptoms, consult a healthcare professional for a thorough evaluation and personalized treatment plan.

Dr Rosanel is a concierge Medical Doctor in Miami, FL where she resides with her husband and 3 kids: Ariel, Zev and Shirley. Concierge Medicine & Cardiology Miami, Florida info@drrosanel.com

Dr. Sarah Rosanel specializes in personalized medical care, helping patients address complex health concerns, including chronic fatigue, in Miami, Florida

Photo credit- David Levi Photography

Dovid Naftali Berkowitz

Yaakov Meir Berkowitz North Miami Beach

Rafaely Taieb Surfside

Talya Zafrany North Miami Beach

KID’S ZONE KID’S ZONE

Aharon Yitzchok Berkowitz

Rikki

Levi

Sarita

Mordechai

Basya

Chana

Sara

Bracha Alpert

Avital Friedman

Yehuda Yosef Berkowitz

Yehuda A. Seigel

Yonah Ackerman

KID’S ZONE KID’S ZONE

YOU KNOW THAT...

FACTS ABOUT AIRPLANES DID

Cessna: A leading name in general aviation, Cessna manufactures a wide range of aircraft for personal and business use, from small trainers to larger turboprops.

Airbus: A European aerospace giant, Airbus is a major competitor to Boeing in the commercial aircraft market, known for its innovative designs and technological advancements.

Embraer: A Brazilian aerospace company, Embraer specializes in regional jets and executive jets, playing a significant role in connecting smaller cities and serving the business aviation market.

Boeing: An iconic American aerospace manufacturer, Boeing is a global leader in commercial and military aircraft production. Their aircraft are ubiquitous in the skies worldwide.

Bombardier: A Canadian company with a diverse portfolio, Bombardier manufactures business jets, regional aircraft, and also has a significant presence in the rail transportation industry.

Gulfstream: Synonymous with luxury in aviation, Gulfstream produces high-performance business jets known for their speed, range, and opulent interiors.

Pilot: The highly skilled professional responsible for the safe operation of an aircraft. Pilots undergo rigorous training and are constantly updated on aviation regulations and safety procedures.

Lockheed Martin: A major American defense contractor, Lockheed Martin is renowned for its advanced military aircraft, including fighter jets like the F-22 and F-35.

Delta: One of the world’s largest airlines, Delta operates a vast network of domestic and international flights, offering a comprehensive travel experience for passengers.

Airport: The hub of air travel, airports serve as vital gateways for passengers and cargo, facilitating global connectivity and economic activity.

HISTORY’S HEROES

NEXT WEEK SUPPLIES LIST

-Tissue Paper -6x6 Styrofoam Square -Cardstock -Printed Template -Glue -Mod Podge -Scissors -2 Push Pins -Small Sponge -Medium Paintbrush or Pencil -Gold Acrylic Marker -Black Sharpie

CONTEST

WIN A PRIZE!

Finish the weekly project, snap a pic, and email us at info@jcm.museum for a chance to win a prize. Let’s get creating!

2. THE NUGGET

When Rivkah offered water to Eliezer, she did it in a sensitive way. Even though he had asked only for “a little water,” she allowed him to drink freely as much as he wanted. She also positioned the jug of water to allow him to easily drink and did not mention watering the camels until he finished drinking. If she had, he may have rushed or cut short his drinking knowing that she still had to tend to them.

4. FUN FACT

There are different opinions as to how old Rivkah was when she married Yitzchak. According to one opinion, she was 3 years old. According to another opinion, she was 14 years old.

1. LIFE STORY SNIPPET

Rivkah Imeinu, the second of the Imahos, grew up in a family of deceitful individuals, but she remained unaffected by her immoral environment. For this reason, she is compared to a rose among thorns. When her husband Yitzchak grew old and wanted to bless their firstborn son Eisav, Rivkah orchestrated a plan to ensure the blessings were given to Yaakov instead.

3. BRINGING IT DOWN

Just as Rivkah thoughtfully helped Eliezer, we too can offer help to someone in need. In doing so, we should be as sensitive as possible to what this person’s needs may be. For example, let’s say you were given homework that you understand well, but you notice a classmate struggling with it. Aside from offering to help, you can be extra sensitive in how you do so. Try to tune in and figure out which part of the homework is difficult for your friend to understand, and use a tone and words that make him or her feel they are smart, too.

5. QUESTION TO CONSIDER

What is one way to be extra sensitive when helping someone out?

RIVKAH

Measure out 1 Tbsp of strawberry jello mix and 1 Tbsp of hot water in a bowl. Mix until smooth and set aside.

Start assembling the mousse cups. Crumble the cupcake or cake into the bottom of the cup.

To finish off, create a rose from a strawberry by cutting small indents into the strawberry, starting from the outside going inwards until the rose effect is complete.

STRAWBERRY ROSE MOUSSE CUPS

Pour the heavy cream into another bowl and use an electric mixer to whip, until stiff peaks form.

Next, fill the cup until ¾ full with the strawberry whip.

SUPPLIES LIST

INGREDIENTS

-Strawberries (1 per cup)

-1 Container Heavy Cream

-1 Tbsp Strawberry Jello

-1 Tbsp Hot Water

-Cupcake/Cake of Your Choice

SUPPLIES

-Knife

-3 Bowls

-3 Bowls -Electric Mixer

-Electric Mixer

-Mousse Cups -Spoons

-Mousse Cups

-Spoons

-Plate

Scoop out a ¼of the whipped cream into a small bowl. Pour the jello mixture into the mixing bowl, and whip again to combine.

Add a dollop of the plain whip on top.

Place the roses on the top of the cups and they are ready! Remember to make a Bracha, and Enjoy!

-Measuring Spoon

Pulled Brisket

By Jamie Geller

• 410 MIN DURATION • 400 MIN COOK TIME • 10 MIN PREP TIME • 8 SERVINGS •

This Pulled Brisket is a mouthwatering dish with many layers of flavors. Magic happens when the meat is rubbed with the perfect blend of spices and then cooked all day in a special sauce.

Ingredients

• 1 two to three pound brisket

Rub

• 1 tablespoon kosher salt

• 3 tablespoons brown sugar

• 1 tablespoon smoked paprika

• 1 tablespoon garlic powder

• 1⁄4 teaspoon red pepper flakes

• 1 teaspoon cumin Sauce

• 1 cup ketchup

• 1 teaspoon garlic powder

• 2 tablespoons smoked paprika

• 1⁄4 cup brown sugar

• 1⁄2 cup maple syrup

• 1 tablespoon soy sauce

• 1⁄4 cup apple cider vinegar

• 2 tablespoons mustard

Preparation

1. Prepare the rub by combining all the ingredients and then rub all over brisket on both sides.

2. Cut four onions in rings and layer on bottom of a slow cooker pot on high.

3. Place brisket over onions.

4. Combine all the sauce ingredients, and pour over brisket.

5. Cover slow cooker with lid and let cook 6-7 hours on high.

6. After 6-7 hours of cooking, remove brisket. Use two forks to shred the meat. Return to pot, and mix meat into the sauce that remained in the pot. Cook for a few more minutes.

Jamie Geller is the Chief Media and Marketing Officer at Aish. She is also a bestselling cookbook author, celebrity chef, television producer, and businesswoman. She’s the author of eight cookbooks and the founder of Kosher Media Network.

Personalized Personal Finance – Part II

By Shmuel Shayowitz

The response to my previous article, Money Mindsets - Personalized Personal Finance, was incredibly heartening. It seems that many of us resonate with the idea that understanding our personality type can profoundly influence our financial habits.

Given the feedback, I wanted to dive deeper into this concept and provide more actionable insights to help us refine our financial strategies. I’d like to portray additional personality types, discuss how they relate to money, and give tips to maximize strengths while addressing their challenges.

“The Planner” Planners excel at structuring their finances with detailed budgets and future projections. They thrive on order and love sticking to wellthought-out plans. However, the rigidity of a planner can lead to frustration when life doesn’t go according to plan. To counteract this, planners should embrace flexibility by creating “buffer zones” in their budgets for unexpected expenses. Experimenting with small, unplanned purchases or spontaneous activities can help them appreciate life’s unpredictability. Remember, sometimes the best financial opportunities come from adaptability rather than strict adherence to a plan.

“The Optimist” Optimists maintain a positive outlook on their financial future, often believing things will “work themselves out.” This optimism can be a double-edged sword, as it fosters

hope but can also lead to neglecting critical financial planning. To harness their strengths, optimists should pair their positivity with a reality check. Regularly reviewing financial goals and preparing for worst-case scenarios, such as unexpected job loss or medical expenses, can ensure that their optimism is grounded in practicality. Tools like financial tracking apps or working with an accountability partner can help them stay proactive while maintaining their sunny outlook.

“The Minimalist”

Minimalists find joy in living simply, often prioritizing experiences over possessions. While this mindset is refreshing in a consumer-driven world, minimalists might miss out on opportunities to leverage their financial surplus. They may also shy away from investments, viewing them as “unnecessary.” Minimalists can maximize their financial potential by channeling unused funds into growth opportunities, like index funds or passive income streams. They should also allow themselves to splurge occasionally on high-quality items or experiences that truly enhance their lifestyle, avoiding a mindset of deprivation. Regardless of your personality type, there are universal practices that can enhance your financial journey. Start by defining your “why.” Understanding the deeper reason behind your financial goals - whether it’s securing your family’s future, retiring early, or contributing to meaningful causes - can provide clarity and motivation. Em-

brace incremental changes rather than trying to overhaul your entire approach at once. Small, consistent adjustments, such as automating a modest savings amount (and gradually increasing it,) can lead to significant progress over time. Finally, remember to celebrate your wins. Recognizing and rewarding yourself for milestones, no matter how trivial, can help sustain motivation and reinforce positive habits. By understanding your unique money mindset and working with a trusted financial advisor, you can create a personalized strategy to achieve lasting financial success and peace of mind. There is no better time to explore this than before the new year. I am happy to help!

Would you rather live in the same modest house for all of your life or be forced to move to a larger home every 12 months? Please email or message me to let me know your choice! Please let me know if you have a good “Would you rather” question, and we will highlight your submission.

Shmuel Shayowitz (NMLS#19871) is a respected Real Estate & Finance Executive, Writer, Speaker, Coach, and Advisor. As the President and Chief Lending Officer of Approved Funding, a leading national mortgage banker and direct lender, Shmuel has facilitated over $3 billion of mortgages over the past two decades. Shmuel’s expertise spans various licenses and certifications, including specialized mortgage underwriter, licensed real estate agent, and accredited coach. His market insights and experience are highly sought after in the real estate, finance, and coaching industries. In addition, Shmuel is a seasoned real estate investor and property manager, facilitating thousands of rentals nationwide. Shmuel can be reached at www. approvedfunding.com/shmuel.