ITAMAR BEN GVIR ON OFFICIAL TRIP
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Beyond the Headlines
A weekly glimpse into the Israel you won’t read about in the news
By Sivan Rahav Meir
PostPesach Musings
Focusing on the Gifts We Receive on Pesach
A not-so-young single woman sent me the following note after Pesach. Her powerful message can give strength to anyone, regardless of their situation:
“Shalom, Sivan. I had a pretty lousy holiday, but on the seventh day of Pesach I remembered an idea I once heard that on every holiday we receive a gift–we are replenished with faith and holiness. We receive this gift without even realizing it. If we participated in a Seder, drank four cups of wine, read the Haggadah and ate matzah, this gift is ours.
“While it’s true that the more we invested in the Seder, the more obvious the gift, even if we were anxious, sad, bitter, ashamed, and envious of our married sister sitting there surrounded by her children, and the last thing we wanted was another holiday like this one God has still given us these gifts.
“We ate matzah? Boom! We received an injection of faith for the entire year. This dose of emunah is absorbed into our bodies and souls regardless of how we felt. Consciously or unconsciously, we have been transformed by this experience. By participating in these mitzvot, we have been granted renewed energy. From now through the rest of the year, as we face struggles and challenges, sadness and despair, we can draw strength from the
gifts we received on Pesach. For just as God was with our ancestors in Egypt, He hears our cries and feels our pain, and in the end, our personal redemption will come too.”
The Stories We Don’t Hear About
Did you hear about Dina Fahimi of Netivot? I am embarrassed to admit that I had never heard of her until Pesach night. On October 7, 2023, a missile from Gaza landed a direct hit on the home of the Fahimi family. Dina
Sivan and Dina Fahimi
lost her husband Rafael, her sonin-law Netanel who was married to her daughter Tal, and her oldest grandchild Rafael, who was shortly to have celebrated his Bar Mitzvah. Members of three generations from the same family perished on the same day.
Dina, together with her widowed daughter and her orphaned children, came to Jerusalem to celebrate Pesach at a Seder with 30 other bereaved families. We were privileged to be with them and to see how heroic people emerge from the suffering that Egypt represents. Here is what I learned from Dina:
1. How can it be that everyone I ask has never hear what happened to the Fahimi family? Her story, like so many others, is incredibly shocking but also incredibly important. We must never lose sight of our true enemy and what it wants to do to every one of us every day — not only what it wanted to do to us on October 7.
2. We need to remind ourselves of October 7 not only because of evil, but because of good. Many are already familiar with Miriam Peretz and Iris Haim. Dina Fahimi is cut from the same cloth. Within the pain of a shattered heart, she exudes optimism and hope. How many heroes like those who were murdered on October 7 went up to heaven without our knowing them, and how many heroes like them live among us without our knowing them either?
3. Towards the end of the holiday, I asked each family if it would like to convey a message to the rest of us. Dina said she had nothing to add to the words of the Haggadah that were spoken that night since they cover everything. On Pesach night, the past connects to the present and the future: the matzah and the maror; “You will live by your blood”; “In every generation they try to destroy us”; “This is what has stood by our fathers and us”; and finally, “Next year in rebuilt Jerusalem” when the final redemption comes. Amen.
The Future Na’ama
After celebrating Pesach, the Season of our Freedom, here is an idea about freedom from Na’ama Levi, the IDF soldier who was abducted on October 7th and returned to Israel after 477 days of Hamas captivity:
“What gave me hope while being held captive was the thought that perhaps one day I would get out of there and return home to my family. When it was hard and I was at my wits’ end, I told myself that while today’s Na’ama is at her wits’ end, I had to think about the future Na’ama. I realized that if I refuse to despair, the future Na’ama will return home so happy and will thank today’s Na’ama for her strength and resilience. I thought about my family and friends and everyone else who was waiting for me, and I knew I
had to be strong for them too.”
For whatever challenge or distressing circumstances any of us might face, we learn from Na’ama to look beyond the here and now, to think of who we will be in the future, and to act in the present accordingly.
Jewish Identity Above All
Here is another story that eloquently demonstrates how Jews fulfill their freedom and stand up for their values. On Friday, the delegations from the Emet Network in Modiin and the “Lapid” Bnei Akiva Yeshiva in Modiin reached an advanced stage in the global robotics competition in Houston, Texas. The final stage of the competition was set for Shabbat.
The members of the delegation made the following announcement: We’re happy to have made it to this stage, but we are proudly withdrawing from the competition because we observe Shabbat, and that is a supreme Jewish value for us. You are invited to learn more about Shabbat at our booth. We have left materials there explaining the significance of the holy day. Shabbat Shalom to all. This message is dedicated to the welfare of our kidnapped brethren and the success of the people of Israel.”
Former Hostage Omer Shem Tov Visits Hebrew Academy of Miami Beach
On Wednesday, April 2, Hebrew Academy of Miami Beach welcomed a very special guest: Omer Shem Tov, who was held hostage by Hamas for 505 days and released in March. Students and faculty gathered to hear Omer speak about his experience, his unwavering faith during captivity, and the strength he drew from knowing that Jews around the world were praying for his safe return.
Omer was welcomed by elementary students with cheerful signs, singing, and dancing that set the tone for the powerful visit.
Since the October 7th attacks, Hebrew Academy has come together in daily prayer for the safe return of the hostages. Months earlier, the school hosted Omer’s mother, Shelly Shem Tov, who spoke powerfully about her son and her enduring hope that he would come home.
Omer’s return—and his presence on campus—was nothing short of a miracle. His words left a lasting impression on students and staff, offering a firsthand glimpse into the resilience of the human spirit and the unbreakable bond of the Jewish people.
Hebrew Academy is grateful to the Schottenstein family for making this meaningful visit possible
Sunday to Thursday: 12pm - 10pm Friday: 11am - 3:30pm OPENING HOURS Scan the code to order!
Yearning For Shana Haba B’yerushalayim“Next Year In Yerushalayim”
By Dr. Chaim Y. Botwinick
Having just celebrated the beautiful and glorious chag of Pesach, It is natural to take a step back, and to reflect on this inspiring and meaningful holiday.
Over one week ago, we all sat together at our respective seder tables with family and friends, exchanging stories about yetziat mitzrayim (the exodus narrative) and focusing on the amazing history of bnai yisrael’s exodus and liberation from slavery in Egypt.
As we concluded the sederim with hope and promise, we all sang and exclaimed shana haba b’yerushalyim – next year, we will be in Jerusalem.
For those of us who are fortunate to be living in Israel, this concept of “Next Year in Yerushalayim’ is happening now in real time – at least from a physical perspective. But, for the most part, it’s an aspirational wish, dream and bracha about our future. The true message here is that we all pray and hope for the arrival of the
Moshiach who will help lead us out of galut (the diaspora) in order to finally fulfill the long awaited realization and actualization of “Next Year in Jerusalem”.
It’s absolutely remarkable how year after year, irrespective of the amount of chametz cleaning and hard work that goes into preparing for Chag Pesach, we all end up in the same place – namely, exhausted, fulfilled and inspired with gratitude and dreams about “next year in Jerusalem.” (This of course does not include the tremendous volume of high caloric intake of Pesach delicacies that many of us consumed and enjoyed over this chag ….guess it’s high time to hit the gym again!).
Putting humor to aside, as we know, chag Pesach is not always about enjoyment, hotel destinations and programs or celebration. Nor is it exclusively about total and complete cherut (freedom). Freedom from slavery, one-hundred percent, but not totally free from today’s harsh and daunting realities of galut.
During Chol HaMoed Pesach, we transitioned into the last two days of the chag, with eager anticipation. We asked ourselves once again, where did the time go? So much anticipation and preparation, yet this beautiful chag comes and goes in the blink of an eye. And as soon as you know it, we are back to our daily routines.
But, for acheinu bnai yisrael, all is never routine. As we look
back at Chag Pesach, I can’t help but be continuously mindful of the physical, emotional and psychological pain and anguish that our dear brothers and sisters are experiencing as captives in Hamas terror tunnels. They are still suffering terribly as they continue to languish in the deep dark, damp, disgusting tunnels of Gaza since the beginning of that horrific infamous day of October 7th. It’s so hard to fathom that there still hostages being held captive by Hamas with very little food to eat, water to drink, sunlight to see or fresh air to breathe. The juxtaposition of the manner in which we celebrate and observe Pesach is so distant and foreign to the reality of what our precious hostages are experiencing is beyond heartbreaking. It is truly unimaginable. Adding to our pain and concern, we now hear official reports that there are currently 59 hostages still being held in Gaza over 20 of whom are believed to still be alive.
As we were celebrating the first night of Pesach in galut, families of Israelis held captive by Hamas brought their grief, hope, despair and unswerving determination and resilience to Hostages Square in Tel Aviv. This was in addition to the thousands of IDF soldiers who spent their first night of Pesach on IDF military bases in the north and in southern Israel and the thousands of families throughout Israel who felt the emptiness and
absence of their sons, daughters, fathers, mothers and other relatives and friends.
As we remember and repeat the exodus story and narrative together at our sederim, it was indeed so difficult not to feel and share the unbearable and relentless pain, heartbreak and fear for the welfare of our hostages and their families. In fact, during the sedarim, many families actually left empty chairs at their respective seder tables in order to symbolize and perpetuate the lives of those hostages still being held captive; and, to remember those family members and friends who have sacrificed their lives in heroic efforts to free the hostages and who fought valiantly and heroically on the battlefield in order to defend eretz yisrael.
As we concluded our chag with the last days of yom tov, we all asked ourselves - when will this nightmare end and how will it end? Are our precious brothers and sisters being held captive still healthy? What is their physical, emotional and psychological condition? And finally, the ultimate question we all have in the back of our minds, but refuse to acknowledge or discuss - are the hostages even still alive?
These are the painful and daunting unanswered questions which haunts all of us as we all tried to observe and celebrate chag pesach against the backdrop of this harsh reality.
I can’t for one moment even begin to imagine how the families of the hostages are able to cope with this terribly sad, depressing and
frightening reality, especially on chag pesach.
As we know, Pesach is a time to observe and remember our exodus from mitzrayim as we went from avdut to chayrut – from slavery to freedom. We are even commanded to envision the exodus narrative as if we were actually or physically present at that time
In our dream of dreams, we pray to haShem for the safe return of the hostages to eretz yisrael; we pray for their release, their wellbeing and for their families who are being tormented every second their dear ones are held in Hamas captivity.
Chag Pesach must continue to provide acheinu b’nai yisrael with hope and promise; with strength and resilience for the future and with bitachon and emunah. To this end, we must never ever allow these events or these challenging courses of history to overshadow our resilience or diminish our hope and promise for the future.
The one area which we do have control is the manner in which we behave and act towards one another as an am kodesh, mamlechet kohamin, and as an ohr lagoyim.
The purpose of this article is not to castigate, accuse, demand or condescend, but rather to encourage all of us to pursue a path of authentic achdut.
As I have written, blogged and podcasted on numerous occasions, achdut b’nai yisrael must become our perpetual calling-card and raison d’ete for our communities in Israel and in the diaspora.
Throughout history we see
how the lack of achdut destroyed the very foundation and fabric of our nation, minimizing our ability and capacity to practice ben adam lchavero and in select cases extinguishing and marginalizing the beauty and splendor of ahavat yisrael.
Ultimately the lack of achdut through our inability to demonstrate ahavat yisrael leads to internal strife, conflict and destruction; and above all, places all of us as a people and as a nation in great peril.
As we concluded Chag Pesach, and return to our normative routines, we once again dream and pray for a time when all of achienu bnai yisrael return to a rebuilt Yerushalayim.
Shana Haba B’yerushalayim is indeed a dream, a promise, a hope, a prayer and an aspiration which inspires and encourages all of us to dream about tomorrow with a safer and more peaceful future for our families for our precious hostages and for all klal yisrael.
May this past chag Pesach be the last Pesach to be celebrated in galut as we eagerly look forward to shalom, achdut and ultimately, Shana Haba B’Yerushalayim.
Dr. Chaim Botwinick is a senior executive coach and an organizational consultant. He served and president and CEO of the central agency Jewish education in Baltimore and Miami, in addition to head of school, principal and teacher for several Jewish day schools and yeshivot. As an Influencer, he has lecture extensively on topics relating to education, leadership and strategic planning.
Dr. Botwinick is Co-Founder of LEV Consulting Associates, producer and host of the Chinuch Horizons podcast, and is the author of Think Excellence, Brown Books, 2011.
April 10, 2025
City of
Dear Mayor Levine-Cava, It has come to our attention that a group of antisemitic BDS activists have recently encouraged Miami-Dade County to divest from its holdings in Israel Bonds. We write to you to STRONGLY OPPOSE any divestment from Israel Bonds and STRONGLY SUPPORT your decision to increase Miami-Dade County’s investment in Israel Bonds. What is BDS?
HOWARD S. WEINBERG, ESQ. MAYOR COMMISSIONERS
CLIFF AIN GUSTAVOAMITBLACHMAN
BLOOM RACHEL S. PAULFRIEDLAND A. KRUSS CINDY ORLINSKY
BRYAN PEGUES CITY MANAGER
1According to the Anti-Defamation League, “The Boycott, Divestment and Sanctions movement (BDS) is an international campaign aimed at delegitimizing and pressuring Israel, through the diplomatic, financial, professional, academic and cultural isolation of Israel, Israeli individuals, Israeli institutions, and, increasingly, Jews who support Israel’s right to exist.
Palestinian would accept a Jewish state in Palestine.”
As you know, the BDS movement does not seek peace, it seeks the destruction of the State of Israel. It’s founder, Omar Barghouti has stated, 2“We oppose a Jewish state in any part of Palestine… [only] a sellout
3Leaders of the BDS movement have supported violence against Jews, including openly supporting Hamas, as US designated terrorist organization.
Florida has been a leader in opposing BDS, 4passing its first anti-BDS law in 2016 with unanimous support in the senate and nearly 99% support in the House. Florida continues to enhance the state’s anti-BDS laws.
5New anti-BDS legislation is currently moving through the Florida House and Senate during the 2025 session and has maintained strong bipartisan support.
1 https://www.adl.org/resources/backgrounder/boycott-divestment-and-sanctions-campaign-bds
3 https://www.standwithus.com/factsheets-omar-barghouti
4 https://www.flsenate.gov/Session/Bill/2016/0086
2 https://www.ajc.org/news/tough-questions-on-the-anti-israel-bds-movement-answered
5 https://www.flsenate.gov/Session/Bill/2025/1678
PHONE: 305-466-8910 FAX: www.cityofaventura.com305-466-8919
In Aventura, we proudly stand with Israel. We did so before the October 7, 2023 massacre and have taken the opportunity to ramp up our support in the time since. Aventura is now proud to call Modi’In our sister city, and even more proud that an ambulance we donated is serving Modi’In to save lives on a daily basis. Are Israel Bonds High Risk?
Though these antisemitic activists claim Israel Bonds are a risky investment, the facts demonstrate that their claim is based on bigotry, not financial analysis. Israel Bonds are not only considered investment grade, carrying an 67A rating from multiple rating services, they also pay interest rates that are substantially greater than those of equivalent US Treasury Bonds.
What should you do?
We applaud your leadership both morally and fiscally in deciding to increase Miami-Dade’s investments in Israel Bonds.
Over the past 18 months, Aventura has increased our purchases of Israel Bonds, bringing our total to $1 million. We made these investments with the support of our community and our financial advisors. Israel has never missed a bond payment in its history, and there is no reason to believe that will change. The investment market views Israel Bonds as a safe and reliable investment.
In Aventura, we have moral clarity. We stand with Israel, not with the bigots who seek its destruction.
Sincerely,
The City of Aventura and our entire commission proudly stands with you in support of Miami-Dade’s ongoing and increased investments in Israel Bonds.
Howard S. Weinberg, ESQ. City of Aventura Mayor
6 https://www.fitchratings.com/research/sovereigns/fitch-affirms-israel-at-a-outlook-negative-31-03-2025
7 https://disclosure.spglobal.com/ratings/en/regulatory/article/-/view/type/HTML/id/3260102
PHONE: 305-466-8910 FAX: www.cityofaventura.com305-466-8919
Ben Gvir’s US Tour: Community Engagement, Controversy, and a Quest for International Support
National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir’s weeklong visit to the United States has generated considerable attention, marked by a distinctive combination of community interaction, contentious stops, and a pursuit of international support for his political vision. From Florida prisons to Ivy League campuses, Ben Gvir’s itinerary has ignited both enthusiasm and protest, underscoring the polarizing nature of his political persona.
Ben Gvir’s tour began in South Florida, where he engaged with local Jewish communities, offering insight into his leadership approach and national security perspectives. His initial stop included Bal Harbour, near Miami, where he interacted with residents and engaged in conversation with a local police officer. This interaction, a seemingly routine community engagement, highlighted his role as the National Security Minister, responsible for overseeing police and prison services.
Following his community interactions, Ben Gvir visited the Everglades Correctional Institute, a prison facility. His office confirmed that he met with Jewish inmates, a move that aligns with his ministerial responsibilities but also raises questions about the specific focus of his engagements. As the overseer of prison services, Ben Gvir’s visit could be interpreted as a routine inspection, yet the focus on Jewish inmates adds a layer of community outreach to his official duties.
Beyond the institutional visits, Ben Gvir’s itinerary included a
stop at an Israeli supermarket in Hollywood, Florida, and a visit to a firearms store. These seemingly disparate stops reflect the diverse interests and concerns within the communities he engaged with. The visit to the Israeli supermarket underscored his connection to the Israeli diaspora, while the firearms store visit, given his political stance, likely served as a point of interest for his supporters.
The National Security Minister also met with the Boca Raton Jewish community, further solidifying his engagement with Jewish communities across Florida. His address at the Jewish Academy, attended by students and parents, focused on the challenges of political leadership and the importance of unwavering ideological commitment. He shared personal anecdotes from his political career, emphasizing the necessity of remaining steadfast in one’s beliefs, even when faced with opposition.
Ben Gvir expressed deep appreciation for the Jewish community
in South Florida, stating, “Love the people in the South Florida. The spirit the support and strength mirrors my vision and provides strength and confidence knowing we have a strong Jewish community.” This sentiment underscores his focus on connecting with and garnering support from the Jewish diaspora.
Goals of the US Trip
When questioned by the South Florida Community Voice about the objectives of his US trip, Ben Gvir outlined three primary goals:
* Strengthening International Support: Seeking to bolster international backing for his political agenda and policies.
* Advancing Security Collaborations: Aiming to foster collaborations on security matters with relevant entities in the United States.
* Promoting Political Vision: Using the platform to articulate and promote his political ideology and vision.
* “We surpassed our expecta-
COMMUNITY NEWS
tions.” He stated, indicating a high level of satisfaction with the outcomes of the trip.
The journey to the United States, departing from Ben Gurion Airport, was conducted under heightened security, reflecting the sensitive nature of his visit and the potential for protests. Images shared online depicted Ben Gvir surrounded by bodyguards as he navigated the airport, highlighting the security measures in place.
Following his Florida engagements, Ben Gvir proceeded to the northeastern United States, including a stop near Yale University in Connecticut. His planned meetings with Yale students and faculty, hosted by Shabtai, an independent Jewish group for Yale affiliates, drew attention to his outreach to academic communities. The events, scheduled both near the Yale campus and in New York City, underscored his attempt to engage with diverse audiences, including those within prestigious academic institutions.
However, Ben Gvir’s visit has not been without controversy. Leftist Israeli expatriates, organized under the group UnXeptable, have announced plans to protest his presence. Videos shared by the group depicted an activist confronting Ben Gvir at a Florida airport, signaling the intensity of opposition he faces. The group’s planned demonstrations in New York City further highlight the polarizing nature of his visit.
Despite the planned protests, Ben Gvir’s itinerary continued with scheduled appearances and private events in key Jewish communities and academic institutions. The events hosted by Shabtai, a prominent Jewish society at Yale Uni-
versity, underscored his attempt to connect with influential Jewish communities and academic circles. The absence of announced meetings with US government officials in New York City raised questions about the diplomatic aspects of his visit. New York City Mayor Eric Adams’s office confirmed that there were no plans for a meeting, and the NYPD did not respond to requests for information. This lack of official government engagements highlighted the focus on community and ideological outreach rather than formal diplomatic meetings.
Background on Ben Gvir
On a personal level, Itamar Ben Gvir is married to Ayala Nimrodi, and the couple has six children.
They reside in the Israeli community of Kiryat Arba/Hebron.
The Office of the National Security Minister
The Minister of National Security in Israel is the political head of the Ministry of National Security, a government agency responsible for public security, law enforcement, and corrections. Key aspects of the role include:
* Administrative oversight of the police force and setting its general policy.
* Oversight of key agencies, including the Israel Police, Israel Prison Service, and Israel Fire and Rescue Authority.
* Responsibility for public security, law enforcement, and corrections.
* The ministry was originally known as the ministry of police, and has had several name changes through out its history.
In essence, the Minister of National Security in Israel is responsible for the overall functioning of the nation’s law enforcement and public safety agencies, setting policy and direction, but ideally not interfering in their daily operations.
In conclusion, Itamar Ben Gvir’s US tour served as a platform for him to engage with diverse communities, promote his ideological perspectives, and navigate the complexities of international relations. The blend of community outreach, controversial stops, and academic engagements, coupled with the planned protests, painted a comprehensive picture of his political persona and the varied reactions he elicits. His visit underscored the ongoing debates surrounding his policies and the broader implications of his political influence.
Operation Inspiration: Blast from the Past
Recently, someone shared a copy of advice for wives which was published in a Home Economics book in 1950. It had things like, “Plan ahead to have a nice dinner waiting on time. This is a way of showing him you’ve been thinking about him and are concerned about his needs.” It suggests freshening up her make-up and being in a bright mood when he comes home.
It included other tips like making sure the house is clean and quiet when husband comes home from work, and being glad to see him. Some “don’ts” included, “Don’t complain if he’s late for dinner. Consider this minor compared to what he might have gone through during the day.” The bottom line of the piece was that the wife should try to make their home a place where the husband can “refresh his body and spirit.”
Needless to say, this advice from nearly 75 years ago aroused the ire of many. Women and even some men were outraged at this misogynistic approach to the home and marriage. What about the woman’s feelings? What about the hard work she does? It seemed such an ancient perspective.
To me, it seemed even more ancient than simply the 1950’s. It was reminiscent to me of the behavior of the righteous women in Egypt, through whose merit we were redeemed from the land where we’d been enslaved for hundreds of years.
The Gemara tells us the women would fetch pails of water into which Hashem sent small
By Rabbi Jonathan Gewirtz
fish. They would cook these fish, then go to their husbands in the fields and feed them, wash them, anoint them, and soothe them with words. Many children were born as a result of this behavior and they were protected by Hashem’s Divine presence to the point that when they crossed the Reed Sea on the seventh day after leaving Egypt, these children were able to point and say, “This is my G-d!” because they recognized the Shechina.
Now, if we look at the actions of these women with 21st century eyes, we’d say they were oppressed, repressed, and mistreated. Were they not working hard too? Especially according to the commentaries that the women were given back-breaking labor in construction, this was an unfair burden to place on them, that they should have to minister to their husbands.
And yet, Chazal didn’t see things that way. For some reason, they saw this as righteousness of the highest order, greater than
anything the men did (I know, no surprise there.) So, what could Chazal have seen millennia ago that we are missing today? And how does that relate to what the author of the Home Ec article understood in the 1950’s?
Let’s look at the perspective of an Israelite woman in Egypt. Her life is drudgery, hard work, and danger. Her husband is always gloomy and bitter, her children are at risk, and the future holds nothing for them but more of the same. Sure, there was a promise of redemption at some point, but it’s very hard to maintain that optimism when you’ve never seen freedom in your life. There was absolutely nothing she could do to change the situation.
Of course, that last line isn’t entirely true. In fact, there was a lot she could do, and the righteous women in Egypt did it. I’d venture to say not all the women behaved as described in the Gemara; only the very intelligent and strong ones. “Strong women acting like that?!” some might question, “You mean the subjugated women!” Not at all.
To focus on your own desires, wants, and even needs, doesn’t take strength. It’s natural, and may actually highlight your own weaknesses. One who cannot live with unfulfilled desires is one who is subdued by them. One who is master of his desires, however, can subjugate those desires and focus instead on others, which is a much nobler calling.
Of course, chayecha kodmin, your life takes precedence over
others’, but that’s only when your life is actually at stake. When your life isn’t on the line, isn’t giving someone else what you wish you could have, a sign of your strength over your ego and of your love and concern for them?
At a Pesach meal, my daughter asked me to pass a certain dip. I silently passed my plate, onto which I had just spooned some dip, across the table to her. She didn’t realize that there was no more dip left, and that I gave her my portion because I knew she would enjoy it - which was more precious to me than my own enjoyment.
That is what the strong women
in Mitzrayim realized, and I think what the author of the tips for a happy husband may have intended. We can all give life to others by putting their needs first and understanding that they may be going through difficult times. Though we may be as well, it’s better and more intelligent not to complain and burden others with our problems.
If we focus on eliminating theirs, we are showing that we are freer and more powerful than those who take whatever they want at the expense of others. It’s possible we may end up having our needs met also, since those we care for will often become
more settled and able to see our pain too, but even if not, we are emulating the wisdom and righteousness of those who came before us and earned Hashem’s favor.
Truly, if we wish to move forward, we ought to take a few steps back and view things as they did in the olden days. We just may find they knew what they were talking about.
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The FUN Club: Building Community for Children of Single-Parent Homes
This year marked the launch of The FUN Club, a vibrant and growing initiative dedicated to supporting children from single-parent families across South Florida. While these children are among the most resilient and strong in our community, they often face unique challenges that may go unrecognized or misunderstood by others.
Headquartered in West Hollywood, The FUN Club runs a weekly after school program that provides a warm, structured, and joyful environment for children to connect, grow, and thrive. In addition to the weekly sessions, the program hosts monthly Sunday events, exciting trips around Yomim Tovim, and other meaningful experiences designed to build community and boost confidence.
The response from families and volunteers has been overwhelmingly positive, and The FUN Club is already looking ahead. Plans are underway to launch a second location for its Big Brother/Big Sister-style afterschool program in the upcoming school year, expanding its reach and impact.
This past Pesach, the children enjoyed a memorable Chol Hamoed trip—one of many highlights that showcase the club’s dedication to creating joyful and supportive Jewish experiences for every child.
Those interested in getting involved—whether through volunteering, supporting, or referring a family—are encouraged to reach out to Rabbi Dovi Levy of Congregation Judea Chabad in West Hollywood.
For more information, visit funclubsfl.org or email funclubsfl@gmail.com.
Mitzvah Tanks Take to the Streets of Miami Hundreds Reached, & Jewish Pride on Full Display
This year, in honor of the Rebbe’s 123rd birthday, ten Mitzvah Tanks paraded throughout the Greater Miami area. The event began at the Lubavitch Educational Center’s Main Campus and concluded at 1140 Alton Road, the Lubavitch Headquarters of Florida, where the many participants received t-shirts and gathered for a group picture, followed by refreshments and pizza.
Following the parade, the tanks went out to their designated locations where they gave out hundreds of matzos and assisted many Yidden in putting on tefillin and more!
Special thanks to the organizers: Fishel Kleinman, Eliyahu Elkayam, Menachem Korf, Sholom Ber Korf, Chabad of Miami Gardens, Chabad of Florida, and all participants and supporters who contributed to the success of this annual event.
Photos By Fishel Kleinman
The End of Artificial Colors? US Announces Major Food Dye Ban
Amid Health Worries
In a landmark move aimed at bolstering public health and empowering consumers with greater transparency about their food, the United States will phase out eight commonly used artificial food dyes. Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. announced the sweeping decision on Tuesday, declaring a commitment to ensuring Americans “know what’s in their food.”
The initiative, spearheaded by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), will see the gradual removal of these synthetic, often petroleum-based color additives from the American food supply. Officials stated that two dyes would be discontinued in the immediate weeks, with the remaining six slated to be phased out entirely by the end of 2026.
This decision comes amidst growing concerns and scientific evidence linking these artificial dyes, ubiquitous in a vast array of popular food items – from vibrant cereals and sugary candies to processed snacks and brightly colored beverages – to potential neurological problems, particularly in children.
Acknowledging the need for viable alternatives, the FDA simultaneously announced plans to expedite the authorization of four new natural color additives in the coming weeks. This proactive step aims to facilitate a smooth transition for food manufacturers seeking to maintain the visual appeal of their products without resorting to
synthetic options.
“Americans don’t know what they’re eating,” Secretary Kennedy asserted emphatically at a press conference, underscoring the administration’s commitment to tackling hidden and potentially harmful ingredients in the nation’s food supply.
Having previously voiced his concerns on the campaign trail alongside Donald Trump, Kennedy had pledged to address the prevalence of artificial food dyes and ultra-processed foods upon assuming leadership of the top US health agency. True to his word, Tuesday’s announcement signals a decisive step in that direction. The Health Secretary further vowed to scrutinize and address other food additives, with a particular focus on ensuring the nutritional quality of meals served in schools. “Every ingredient, additive, to food in
school that we can legally address, we will,” he stated firmly.
The vast majority of artificially colored foods owe their vibrant hues to synthetic chemicals derived from petroleum, according to the Center for Science in the Public Interest (CSPI), a prominent nutrition nonprofit. These synthetic food dyes are pervasive in the American diet, coloring wellknown products such as M&M’s, Gatorade, Kool-Aid, and Skittles, contributing to the visual appeal that often entices consumers, especially children.
FDA Commissioner Marty Makary echoed the concerns about the long-term exposure to these synthetic substances. “For the last 50 years, American children have been increasingly living in a toxic soup of synthetic chemicals,” he stated, emphasizing the potential cumulative impact on their health
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and development. While acknowledging that the removal of food dyes is not a singular solution to all health challenges, Makary stressed that it represents “one important step” towards improving the overall well-being of children across the nation.
The Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) provided a more specific timeline for the phase-out. The authorization for Red No. 2 and Orange B, two of the synthetic dyes under scrutiny, is slated for revocation “within the coming months.” Following this initial action, the remaining six synthetic dyes – FD&C Green No. 3, FD&C Red No. 40, FD&C Yellow No. 5, FD&C Yellow No. 6, FD&C Blue No. 1, and FD&C Blue No. 2 – will be removed from the food supply by the end of the following year. This phased approach aims to give food manufacturers adequate time to reformulate their products and identify suitable alternatives.
Dr. Peter Lurie, a former FDA official and the current president of CSPI, offered a critical perspective on the role of these artificial colorings. He argued that the primary purpose of artificial food dyes is simply to “make food companies money.” By enhancing the visual appeal of often heavily processed foods, particularly to children, these dyes can mask the absence of natural, colorful ingredients like fruit. “We don’t need synthetic dyes in the food supply, and no one will be harmed by their absence,” Dr. Lurie asserted, highlighting the dispensable nature of these additives.
The feasibility of removing these synthetic dyes is further underscored by the fact that many
companies have already successfully reformulated their products in other countries. Marion Nestle, a former nutrition professor at New York University, pointed to examples in Britain and New Zealand where artificial dyes have been largely eliminated. A striking illustration is Kellogg’s Froot Loops cereal: while the American version relies on artificial dyes for its vibrant colors, the Canadian counterpart utilizes natural food colorings derived from sources like carrot and watermelon juice.
While the extent of the harm posed by synthetic dyes remains a subject of ongoing debate within the scientific community, Ms. Nestle emphasized that sufficient concerns have been raised to warrant their removal. “They clearly cause behavioural problems for some – but by no means all – children, and are associated with cancer and other diseases in animal studies,” she explained. Given the availability of natural alternatives, she argued that the potential risks associated with synthetic dyes outweigh any perceived benefit. “Enough questions have been raised about their safety to justify getting rid of them,
especially because it’s no big deal to do so,” she concluded. “Plenty of non-petroleum alternative dyes exist and are in use.”
The US decision follows similar actions taken in other parts of the world. In 2008, British health ministers reached an agreement to phase out six artificial food colorings by 2009. The European Union has also implemented regulations, banning certain colorings outright and requiring warning labels on others to inform consumers about potential adverse effects.
The growing momentum to address artificial food dyes is also evident at the state level within the US. West Virginia recently took a proactive stance by banning synthetic dyes and preservatives in food last month, signaling a growing awareness and concern at the local legislative level. Similar bills have also been introduced in other states, suggesting a broader trend towards greater scrutiny of food additives and a desire to prioritize public health.
Secretary Kennedy’s announcement marks a significant step towards a more transparent and potentially healthier food system in the United States. By phasing out these eight commonly used artificial food dyes and encouraging the adoption of natural alternatives, the administration aims to empower consumers with more information about what they consume and mitigate potential health risks, particularly for vulnerable populations like children. This decision reflects a growing global movement towards cleaner food labels and a greater emphasis on the long-term health implications of food additives.
Standing Still, Remembering Lives:
The Profound Significance of Yom HaShoah Ve-Hagevurah
In the tapestry of Jewish history, woven with threads of resilience, faith, and profound sorrow, Yom HaShoah Ve-Hagevurah – the Remembrance Day of the Holocaust and Heroism – stands as a solemn and vital date. Observed annually on the 27th day of the Hebrew month of Nisan, this day serves as a poignant reminder of the six million Jews who perished in the Shoah, the “catastrophe” that engulfed European Jewry during World War II. More than just a day of mourning, Yom HaShoah also commemorates the acts of resistance, courage, and unwavering spirit displayed by those who faced unimaginable horrors.
This year, in 2025, Yom HaShoah commences on the evening of Wednesday, April 23rd, and continues until the evening of Thursday, April 24th. Across the globe, Jewish communities and individuals will pause, reflect, and engage in various forms of commemoration. Synagogues will hold special services, educational institutions will host programs, and personal stories of survival and loss will be shared. The lighting of yahrzeit candles, memorial flames honoring the departed, will illuminate homes and hearts, casting a gentle glow on the darkness of the past. In Israel, the observance takes on a particularly powerful dimension. As the sun sets on the 27th of Nisan, the nation comes to a stand-
still. The airwaves fill with Holocaust-related programming, and then, a piercing siren cuts through the silence. For two profound minutes, life ceases. Cars pull over, pedestrians halt in their tracks, and the entire country stands in unified remembrance. This collective act of silence is a powerful testament to the enduring impact of the Shoah on the Israeli psyche and a profound expression of solidarity with the victims and survivors.
Adding a deeply personal dimension to the commemoration is the initiative started by the organization Our 6 Million (Shem Vener). This custom encourages individuals to light a personal memorial candle in memory of one of the six million who were murdered. By choosing a specific individual – a relative, a hero of the resistance, or even a person whose name was simply recorded – participants are invited to delve into their life, reflect on their humanity, and ensure that they are not just a number, but a remembered soul. This act of individual remembrance underscores the immense human tragedy behind the statistics.
The selection of the 27th of Nisan as Yom HaShoah is not arbitrary; it is a date imbued with significance. It was deliberately
chosen to coincide with the start of the Warsaw Ghetto Uprising, a powerful symbol of Jewish resistance against Nazi oppression. This uprising, though ultimately unsuccessful, demonstrated the unwavering determination of those trapped in the ghettos to fight for their dignity and survival against overwhelming odds. While the uprising itself began on the 15th of Nisan, the first day of Passover, the 27th was deemed a more suitable date for national commemoration.
As Rabbi Shlomo Brody astutely notes, this date falls comfortably between the conclusion of the joyous Passover holiday and Israel’s Independence Day (5th of Iyar), allowing for a distinct period of remembrance.
However, the establishment of Yom HaShoah was not without its internal debates within the Jewish community. Some prominent religious leaders, including Rabbi Avraham Karelitz (the Chazon Ish), voiced strong objections to observing a day of mourning during the month of Nisan, traditionally a time of joy and celebration. Jewish law (halakha) generally discourages public mourning during this month. Menachem Begin, later Prime Minister of Israel, even advocated for commemorating the Shoah on Tisha B’Av, the traditional day of
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mourning for the destruction of the Temples and other historical tragedies.
This perspective was shared by influential rabbinic figures like Rabbi Moshe Feinstein and Rabbi Joseph B. Soloveitchik. They argued that the Shoah, as a profound tragedy in Jewish history, could be appropriately mourned alongside other calamities on Tisha B’Av, as “the scenes described and the words of despair, mourning, and grief are the same.” However, Rabbi Soloveitchik’s son-in-law, Rabbi Aaron Lichtenstein, offered a more pragmatic counter-argument, suggesting that observing Yom HaShoah on the 27th of Nisan allowed for greater participation, particularly among students who would be in school at that time, unlike the summer observance of Tisha B’Av. Another suggestion that arose during these discussions was to commemorate the Shoah on the fast day of Asara B’Tevet (the 10th of Tevet). This day, already observed as a minor fast day marking the beginning of the siege of Jerusalem, was seen as a way to integrate the memory of the Shoah into the existing Jewish calendar without disrupting more significant observances. Rabbi Shlomo Brody points out that the 10th of Tevet was historically designated as a day to recite Kaddish for those killed on unknown dates, making it a fitting time for a general remembrance. Ultimately, the Israeli government’s decision to establish Yom HaShoah on the 27th of Nisan reflected a desire to create a specific day dedicated to the unique horrors and heroism of the Shoah. It is important to distinguish Yom HaShoah from International Holocaust Remembrance Day,
which is observed annually on January 27th. Instituted by the United Nations in 2005, this international day aims to foster global awareness of the Holocaust and encourage education about its lessons to prevent future genocides. While both days serve the crucial purpose of remembrance, Yom HaShoah holds a particular significance for Jewish communities worldwide as a specific day of Jewish commemoration rooted in Jewish history and tradition.
The early years of the State of Israel presented unique challenges in grappling with the memory of the Holocaust. For many Israeli survivors, sharing their experiences was difficult in a society that often prioritized the image of the strong, resilient “new Jew” over the perceived vulnerability of the “old Jew” who had suffered in the Diaspora. Some survivors encountered disbelief or a lack of understanding, leading to a painful silence that shrouded their experiences.
It was not until the 1960s, particularly with the capture and trial of Adolf Eichmann in Israel, that a significant shift began to occur. The Eichmann trial brought
the horrors of the Holocaust into sharp focus for the Israeli public and shattered the taboo surrounding the subject. Survivors began to share their stories, and the Shoah gradually moved from the periphery to become an integral part of Israel’s historical, cultural, and educational discourse.
Today, the Holocaust is a central element of Israeli identity and education. Thousands of Israeli high school students annually travel to Poland to visit the former concentration and extermination camps, bearing witness to the atrocities that occurred there. These trips serve as a powerful reminder of the past and a crucial educational experience for future generations. While there have been recent tensions and disagreements with the Polish government regarding the narrative of the Holocaust, the commitment to educating young Israelis about this dark chapter remains strong.
Yom HaShoah Ve-Hagevurah is more than just a day to remember the victims of the Holocaust; it is a day to honor the resilience and heroism of those who resisted, survived, and rebuilt their lives. It is a day to reflect on the dangers of hatred, intolerance, and indifference, and to reaffirm the commitment to never forget. As the sirens wail and the candles flicker, they serve as a powerful testament to the enduring spirit of the Jewish people and a solemn vow that the lessons of the Shoah will continue to be learned and remembered for generations to come. In standing still together, we ensure that the memory of those who perished remains a living testament, a call to vigilance, and a beacon of hope for a future free from such unimaginable horrors.
Congratulations to Dr. Sarah Rosanel, MD, FACC – Honored on
the
2025 Cardiovascular Business Forty Under 40 List
We are proud to share some exciting news from our community: Dr. Sarah Rosanel, MD, FACC, a dedicated Concierge Physician in Miami, medical writer, and beloved contributor to our Community News, has been named to the prestigious 2025 Cardiovascular Business Forty Under 40 list.
This national recognition celebrates 40 rising stars under the age of 40 who are shaping the future of cardiovascular care through clinical excellence, leadership, innovation, and advocacy. Among a highly competitive pool of young professionals across the country, Dr. Rosanel stands out as a trailblazer.
She is not only the only physician from South Florida to receive this distinction, but also the only frum Jewish woman on this year’s list—a remarkable achievement that reflects both her professional impact and her commitment to her values.
Dr. Rosanel has made a name for herself as an insightful voice in cardiovascular medicine, known for her expertise in internal medicine and her human-centered approach to patient care. In addition to her busy clinical practice, she shares her knowledge and passion for medicine through her writing, contributing regularly to our publication and educating our readers with clarity, empathy, and dedication.
Her achievements serve as an inspiration to our community, es-
pecially to young women pursuing careers in science and medicine. We are incredibly proud of Dr. Rosanel’s accomplishments and grateful for the light she brings to both the medical field and our community.
Mazal Tov, Dr. Rosanel! May you continue to go from strength to strength.
Cardiovascular Business is thrilled to unveil the Forty Under 40 Class of 2025.
We asked readers to nominate individuals who are already making a major impact on the world of cardiovascular health at a young age. We wanted to hear about your best, your brightest, your most radical thinkers; the people who are never satisfied by something being “good enough” or “how it’s always been done.”
Reviewing the nominees, it was
clear that our readers really delivered. Wow, what a group! We landed on a fantastic group of 40 young cardiologists, researchers, executives, administrators, directors and entrepreneurs who are sure to be making a difference in the lives of patients for decades to come.
Cardiology is going through a moment of significant change right now. The world is in the middle of a cardiologist shortage, for instance, while device technologies and artificial intelligence evolve at a remarkable pace. Fortunately, the specialty’s future appears to be in excellent hands.
Congratulations to all of our winners. As someone who is already well into my forties, I am simply in awe of your hard work and dedication. Thank you for everything you do for the heart patients of today and tomorrow.
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Here’s our full list of the Cardiovascular Business Forty Under 40 Class of 2025:
Aasim Afzal, MD, MBA - Medical director of the mechanical circulatory support program and program director for advanced heart failure and transplant services at Baylor Scott & White The Heart Hospital–Plano in Texas
Subhi Al’Aref, MD - Interventional cardiologist at the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences and UAMS Health in Little Rock
Obadah Aqtash, MD - Interventional cardiologist at HeartPlace, an independent 70-physician cardiology group based in Dallas
Robert Avram, MD, MSc - Artificial intelligence researcher and interventional cardiologist at Montreal Heart Institute and director of the HeartWise.ai laboratory at the University of Montreal
Parker Beasley, MSHA, MBA Director of business development and interim director of operations at Baylor Scott & White The Heart Hospital–McKinney in Texas
Robert Chisena, PhDCo-founder and chief technology officer of AVS Pulse in Boston, Massachusetts.
R. Wesley Dean, PhD - Assistant vice president of cardiovascular operations at HCA Central West Texas (St. David’s HealthCare and Las Palmas Del Sol Healthcare) in Austin, Texas
Ben Diestel, MBA - General Manager of Florida at Cardiovascular Associates of America, Interim CEO at the Cardiovascular Center of Florida and Founding Member of Novocardia
Meesha Dogan, PhD - CEO, founder and board director of Cardio Diagnostics Inc. in Chicago
Bailey Estes, BSN, RN-BC Clinical liaison and development specialist at Alleviant Medical in Lubbock, Texas
Alexander Fanaroff, MD, MHS Interventional cardiologist and cardiovascular outcomes researcher at Penn Medicine and the University of Pennsylvania
Enrico Giuseppe Ferro, MD - Electrophysiologist and Clinical Investigator at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center and Harvard Medical School
Aakriti Gupta, MD, MSc - Structural interventional cardiologist and assistant professor of Cardiology in the Smidt Heart Institute at Cedars-Sinai in Los Angeles
Shadi Halabi, MD, MPH - Medical director of cardiac and vascular rehabilitation at Powers Health System and assistant professor at Indiana University School of Medicine
Mara Hammond - Chief impact officer at Naples Comprehensive Health in Florida
Sarah Harper, MHA - Director of cardiovascular business development, HCA Florida Largo Hospital
Michael Honigberg, MD, MPP Preventive cardiologist and researcher at Massachusetts General Hospital and assistant professor of medicine at Harvard Medical School
Rakan Khaki, MPH - Chief operations officer and co-founder of Biome Analytics in Denver
Phillip LaCorte, MHA - Chief operating officer at The Heart Institute of East Texas
Corrin McCloskey, MPH - Executive director of the heart and vascular service line at Tanner Health in Carrollton, Georgia
Martín Galaz Morales - Engineering operations manager at SynCardia Systems in Tucson, Arizona
Roosha Parikh, MD - Associate director of cardiac CT at St. Francis Heart Hospital in Roslyn, New York
Kristin Pasquarello, MPAS - Administrative director of the Heart Valve Center at St. Francis Hospital in Roslyn, New York
Tarpan Patel, MD - Interventional cardiologist and managing partner at Peak Heart and Vascu-
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lar in Scottsdale, Arizona
Emily Pentecost, RN - Quality improvement manager for ST-elevation myocardial infarction and comprehensive heart attack center programs at UAB Hospital in Birmingham, Alabama
Michel Pompeu Sá, MD, PHD Cardiovascular surgeon at Massachusetts General Hospital and cardiac surgery fellow at Harvard Medical School
Juan Rodriguez - Director of cardiac imaging diagnostics at Naples Comprehensive Health (NCH) in Naples, Florida
Sarah Rosanel, MD - Cardiologist at Dr Rosanel Concierge Medical Practice in Miami
Zachary Rosol, MD - Baylor Scott & White Heart and Vascular Hospital in Dallas
Eric Rytkin, MD, PhD - Research associate at Northwestern University in Chicago
Elina Sabilova - Medical biller and team supervisor at WCH Service Bureau Inc. in Brooklyn, New York
<Isabella Schmitt - Vice president of clinical and regulatory affairs at HeartSciences Inc. in Houston, Texas
Kamel Shibbani, MD - Pediatric interventional cardiologist and clinical assistant professor of pediatric cardiology at the University of Iowa’s healthcare system and medical school
Peeyush Shrivastava - Founder and CEO at Genetesis Inc. in Cincinnati
Kent So, MBChB - Director of structural heart interventions at Prince of Wales Hospital in Hong Kong
Sara Sommers Wilks, MBA Regional president, US Heart and
Vascular in Houston
Rosy Thachil, MD - Director of the cardiac intensive care unit (CICU) and assistant professor of medicine at Elmhurst Hospital Center and Mount Sinai School of Medicine
Spencer Toder, MBA - Co-founder and CEO of Atrial Innovations in St. Louis
Brittany Weber, MD, PhD - Director of the Cardio-Rheumatology Clinic at Brigham & Women’s Hospital in Boston
Quentin Youmans, MD, MSc Advanced heart failure and transplant cardiologist at Northwestern Medicine’s Bluhm Cardiovascular Institute and director of pathway programs at Northwestern University’s Feinberg School of Medicine
Sarah Rosanel, MD, FACC Cardiologist at Dr Rosanel Concierge Medical Practice in Miami
Born in Casablanca, Morocco, and raised in Paris, France, Dr. Rosanel completed her medical training in New York, bringing a rich cultural and educational background to her practice.
Sarah holds leadership roles in several prestigious organizations, including the American College of Cardiology Women in Cardiology Leadership Council and the Jewish Orthodox Women’s Medical Association (JOWMA). She is actively involved in mentoring students as an associate professor at Yeshiva University’s Stern College and at the Solomon Leadership Program in Bal Harbor, FL.
As a speaker, medical writer for South Florida magazine and moderator for complex cardiac cases at the national ACC conference, Dr. Rosanel shares her expertise globally. Her accolades include the Women in White Coats Heroes Award and the Physician Leadership Award from JOWMA, highlighting her contributions to the field. Dr. Rosanel resides in Miami with her husband Yossi and their three children, Ariel, Zev and Shirley.
KID’S ZONE KID’S ZONE
RIDDLES BRAIN TEASERS &
Try
these challenging riddles!
1. I wear a skin, but not for show, I’m red or green, as you may know. A bite from me is crisp and sweet, But in a pie, I can’t be beat. What am I?
2. I can hang from a branch or roll off your plate, Doctors fear me, yet I hold no hate. I might be bobbed for, or found in a tart, With a core in the center and seeds at my heart. What am I?
3. Peel me not, I bruise with ease, I’m often picked among the trees. Though I can crunch, I do not shout, And when you slice me, stars come out. What am I?
4. My flesh is crisp, my skin is green, I’m tart and sharp, not sweet and lean. In salads I bring zest and zip, But bake me wrong, and lips will flip. What am I?
5. I’m crushed and pressed and sealed up tight, With amber shine and liquid light. You drink me down when autumn calls, And find me bottled in market stalls. What am I?
6. My name’s like a tech device, But I grow, not sold at price. I don’t run apps or make a beep, Yet still I’m found where farmers reap. What am I?
7. I’m crisp when new, but soft with age, Some turn me into cider or a page. Though you may eat me, some just wait— Until I fall and meet my fate. What am I?
8. Slice me up and you will see, A secret shape inside of me. I’m used in math, a teacher’s treat, But I’m not something that you eat. What am I?
9. I’m found in orchards, row by row, And in the fall, it’s me you’ll show. I might get dipped in caramel sweet, And handed out to kids as treat. What am I?
10. Though I’m fruit, I share a name, With something launched to worldwide fame. With bytes and clicks and logos too, I’m half a snack, half code for you. What am I?
KID’S ZONE KID’S ZONE
KNOW THAT...
FACTS ABOUT APPLES DID YOU
Apples Float in Water
Apples float because they are 25% air. Try it next time you wash one!
Thousands of Apple Types
There are over 7,500 kinds of apples grown around the world. How many types have you tasted?
Apple Trees Take Time
It takes about four to five years for an apple tree to grow enough to produce its first apples.
A Healthy Snack
Apples contain vitamins and fiber, helping you stay healthy and strong. No wonder people say, “An apple a day keeps the doctor away!”
The Heaviest Apple Ever
The largest apple ever picked weighed over four pounds—that’s as heavy as a small cat!
America’s Favorite Fruit
Apples are the most eaten fruit in the United States. Americans eat an average of about 50 apples every year!
China Grows the Most Apples
China grows more apples than any other country in the world. That’s billions of apples every year!
Apple Trees Can Live Long
Some apple trees can live up to 100 years, giving apples to generations of people.
KID’S ZONE KID’S ZONE
KID’S ART CONTEST
CREATE A DRAWING OR A PIECE OF ART OF PESACH ACTIVITIES
First place: $30 gift card | Second place: $20 gift card | Third place: $10 gift card
Email your artwork to editor@tsfcommunityvoice.com
Make sure to include your name, age and city. Entries must be received by April 28.
This type of contest encourages creativity, education and community engagement. It allows kids to express themselves through art, and it also provides an opportunity for their work to be showcased in the magazine.
Sponsored by: SMASH HOUSE BURGERS smashhouseburgers.com (305) 351- 9545
HISTORY’S HEROES
DEVORAH 2694 1,000 2,000 3,000 4,000 5,000
NEXT WEEK'S SUPPLY LIST
-Empty Film Cannister
-Printed Template -Scissors -Tape -Sharpies -Black Puff Paint
-Alka Seltzer Tablet
-Orange food Coloring
-Red Glitter
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
Devorah and Barak, along with thousands of Jewish soldiers, fought a war against King Yavin and the Kenaani people, who had been oppressing them. Through a series of miracles, they emerged victorious. In gratitude to Hashem, they sang a song of praise. The Navi states, “Devorah and Barak ben Avinoam sang on that day…” alluding to the fact that they sang this song of thanks on the very same day they achieved victory.
4. FUN FACT
The Navi says Devorah was the wife of Lappidos. The word Lappidos means flames, hinting at Devorah’s fiery dedication to Hashem. Just as a torch sets everything around it on fire, Devorah’s passion similarly inspired those around her.
1. LIFE STORY SNIPPET
Devorah was one of the seven Nevios, the only Jewish female judge, and married to Lapidos. During her time, many Jews were immersed in Avoda Zara and suffered under the oppressive rule of the Kenaani people. Hashem sent Devorah, a wise and G-d-fearing woman, to guide the people back to their faith, which she successfully did. To avoid Yichud, she held court out in the open, beneath a palm tree. When the time was right, Devorah called upon Barak ben Avinoam to lead the Jewish people in battle against the Kenaanim. With the help of a brave woman named Yael, the Jews achieved a miraculous victory.
3. BRINGING IT DOWN
When Hashem helps us out, we should remember to thank Him right away without delay!
5. QUESTION TO CONSIDER
What goodness in your life can you thank Hashem for?
SMORES PIANO DEVORAH
Cut a small triangle at the corner of the bag and squeeze all of the melted chocolate into the mold. Shake the mold gently to spread the chocolate evenly. Divide the baking chocolate into two bags. Put one bag into a cup of boiling water and let it melt completely.
Place another cracker on top of the marshmallow fluff to create a sandwich.
Melt the second bag of white baking chocolate in a cup of boiling water, just like in Step One. Cut a small triangle in the corner of the bag and squeeze the chocolate into the mold until it is full. Shake the mold gently to flatten the chocolate.
Make icing by mixing confectioners' sugar, 1tsp water, and 2 squirts of black icing until smooth. Pour into a bag and cut a tiny hole at the corner. Pop the chocolate out of the mold onto a plate and use the icing to draw a keyboard design based on the template.
SUPPLIES LIST
INGREDIENTS
-½ Cup of White Baking Chocolate
-2 Graham Cracker Squares, cut to 2x2 Square
-1 Scoop of Marshmallow Fluff
-Black Food Coloring
-5 TSPs of Confectioners' Sugar
-1 Cup Boiling Water
-1 TSP Water
Press one cracker into the melted chocolate, then use two spoons to place a scoop of marshmallow fluff on top of the cracker.
Place the mold in the freezer on a flat surface for 25 minutes.
Freeze for 5 minutes, then let it defrost before eating. Enjoy!
-Printed Template
-Plate
-Square Mold
-3 Spoons
-Scissors
-Ziploc Bag
-Cup
Craving something cheesy, crispy, and totally crave-worthy? This Mexican Pizza is your new go-to! It’s the perfect mashup of Taco Tuesday meets Motzei Shabbos vibes—layered with flavor, ready in minutes, and a guaranteed hit with the whole fam.
Whether you’re feeding hungry teens or just want a quick dinner win, this is the kind of recipe you’ll come back to again and again. Let’s get cooking!
Ingredients
• 8 prepared individual pizza crusts
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella chesse
• 1 (15-ounce) can chopped tomatoes, drained
• 1 (6-ounc) can tomato paste
• 1 (15-ounce) can kidney beans, drained
• 1 (15-ounce) can black beans, drained
• 1 (11-ounce) can sweet yellow corn niblets, drained
• 1/2 teaspoon Tabasco sauce, or to taste
• 1 teaspoon salt
Mexican Pizza
By Jamie Geller
Preparation
1. Preheat oven to 425 degrees F. Lightly grease a cookie sheet with non-stick cooking spray.
2. Place pizza crusts on prepared cookie sheet and brush with olive oil.
3. Bake pizza crusts, uncovered, at 425 degrees for 5 minutes.
4. In the meantime mix cheeses in a small bowl. Set aside.
5. In a separate bowl, combine tomatoes, tomato paste, beans, corn, Tabasco and salt.
6. Remove crusts from the oven and divide tomato mixture evenly among the 8 crusts. Spread to within about 1/4-inch of edges.
7. Sprinkle with cheeses.
8. Return to oven. Bake, uncovered, at 425 degrees for 20 minutes or until cheese is melted and pizza crusts are pale brown. Let stand 5 minutes before serving.
Tips: Top each pizza with 2 to 3 slices of fresh avocado or a few slices of jarred hot pepper rings immediately before serving.
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.
BAD LOOKING HOUSES
Judah Lifshitz
Yossi Berger
Yehuda Rosenberg
How US Tariff Changes Create Real Estate Opportunities in Israel
As an Israeli attorney who has spent over two decades helping American clients navigate property investments in Israel, I’ve noticed something interesting happening recently. The changing tariff policies in the United States are creating unexpected opportunities in Israel’s real estate market, particularly for American investors.
You might be wondering how US tariff policies could possibly affect real estate prices in Tel Aviv or Jerusalem. The connection isn’t immediately obvious, but it’s very real.
The recent adjustments to US import tariffs have put pressure on certain sectors of Israel’s economy that rely heavily on exports to America. This economic recalibration has created a temporary cooling effect in some of Israel’s hottest real estate markets. For American investors, this timing couldn’t be better.
With the strong dollar and the current market conditions, I’m seeing properties that would have been snapped up immediately just a year ago now staying on the market longer, with more room for negotiation. Some sellers, especially those who need liquidity quickly, are becoming more flexible on price.
In particular, I’ve noticed excellent opportunities in the fol-
By Yitzchak Steinberg
lowing areas:
First, Tel Aviv’s luxury apartment market has seen a slight price correction of about 5-8% in certain neighborhoods. For highend purchases, this can translate to significant savings.
Second, investment properties in Jerusalem’s growing tech corridor are showing promising longterm potential, with current prices reflecting more reasonable valuations than we’ve seen in years.
Third, vacation homes in coastal areas like Netanya and Herzliya, traditionally popular with American buyers, are available at more competitive prices than we’ve seen since before the pandemic.
What makes this situation unique is that it’s not driven by any fundamental weakness in Israel’s economy or real estate market. Rather, it’s a temporary adjustment period as companies recalibrate to the new trade realities. The underlying strength of Israel’s economy remains robust, with the tech sector continuing to drive growth and attract international investment.
For American investors, especially those in Florida’s Jewish community who may already have family connections to Israel, this presents a strategic window of opportunity. You’re purchasing in a stable market with strong fundamentals, but with better terms than were available in recent years.
In my practice, I’ve helped
several Florida clients this year leverage these conditions to purchase properties that they had previously considered out of reach. The combination of adjusted prices, favorable exchange rates, and motivated sellers has created ideal conditions for buyers.
Of course, investing across international borders always comes with complexities. The right legal guidance can help you navigate Israel’s property laws, which differ significantly from those in the US. But the current climate makes addressing these challenges worthwhile.
If you’re considering a real estate investment in Israel, whether for personal use, as a vacation property, or purely as an investment, I believe the next 6-12 months represent a particularly advantageous time to enter the market.
Sometimes, economic shifts in one area create opportunities in others. The current realignment of US-Israel trade is creating just such an opportunity in real estate – one that savvy investors would do well to consider.
Yitzchak Steinberg is a legal expert specializing in representing foreign residents in Israeli real estate transactions. Over the years, he and his team have successfully guided thousands of international buyers through property acquisitions in Israel. His extensive experience spans clients from across the globe, making him a trusted advisor in navigating the complexities of Israeli real estate law for non-residents.
office@ys-law.co.il +972-2-5002923
Watsapp: 646-266-9817
