A weekly glimpse into the Israel you won’t read about in the news
By Sivan Rahav Meir
Carrying the Light Forward Keeping His Light Alive
One year ago, on the ninth of the Hebrew month of Sivan, 21-year-old IDF soldier Sgt. Eliyahu Moshe Zimbalist was killed in Gaza. He had made aliyah with his family from Silver Spring, Maryland, lived in Beit Shemesh, and studied at Yeshivat Shaalvim.
During the shiva, Noa and a close friend went to comfort Eli Moshe’s family. They left deeply moved by the family’s strength,
faith and dignity. On the way home, the two friends couldn’t stop thinking about how to continue spreading Eli Moshe’s light in the world. And then a simple but deeply meaningful idea took shape: they would try to make a match between people they knew. They started thinking of names and sharing ideas. Noa mentioned her cousin, and her friend had a brilliant suggestion. Suddenly, everything just seemed to click.
Noa reached out to the young man they had in mind. At the time, he was serving in Gaza, and he gently explained that it didn’t feel like the right time for him. But several months later he called her back, asking if the girl they’d suggested was still available.
Fast forward to June 5. On the way to this couple’s wedding, Noa and her friend realized something remarkable: the wedding was taking place on the ninth of Sivan—exactly one year after Eli Moshe’s passing. A wedding in his merit, on the very day he had lost his life.
Mazal tov to Yehuda and Hodaya. And may we all find ways—each in our own way—to help fill the void left in the heart of the Jewish people.
A Story About a Jerusalem Grocery Store on Shabbat
On Friday afternoon, Meir Shua was getting ready to close his grocery store, located on Ussishkin Street in Jerusalem. But just as he was about to lock up, he realized
The wedding of Yehuda and Hodaya. (Inset) fallen soldier Sgt. Eliyahu Moshe Zimbalist, zl.
COMMUNITY NEWS
that the key was missing. He searched high and low and when he couldn’t find it, he asked the family members who help run the store with him for a spare key, but the closest one was in Ashkelon.
The sun was about to set, Shabbat was moments away, and with a heavy heart, Meir headed home. Without the key, he couldn’t lower the large security gate at the entrance. And so, he walked away, leaving the door unlocked and his merchandise fully exposed.
What do you think happened next? Well, 25 hours went by. On Shabbat, thousands of people of all types passed through Ussishkin Street. Inside the store sat a cash register filled with cash, and shelves lined with hundreds of thousands of shekels worth of merchandise, including cigarettes and alcohol, all left unguarded. When Meir returned to the store on Motzaei Shabbat, he was stunned.
“Everything was exactly where I left it,” he said. “Nothing was stolen.” What’s more, some concerned neighbors, thinking the store had been broken into, had placed a large trash bin in front of the entrance to block access. People from the neighborhood and beyond have been flocking to the grocery store to hear Meir’s firsthand account. His takeaway?
“We just read on Shavuot: ‘You shall not steal.’ We’re not just people who don’t steal—we are righteous!”
Kindling the Spark
In this week’s parashah, Beha’alotcha, Aaron the High priest is commanded to light the lamps in the Mishkan. Rashi comments that he was told to light them “until the flame rises by itself.” As the commentators
explain, he brought the fire near the wick until the flame burned on its own. There is no need to use force, just let go and allow the flame to burn on its own.
We learn from here an important principle in educating our children and teaching our students. There is no need to stifle your children and students if you want to educate them well. It is sufficient to inspire them, and to light the flame in their own hearts. Stay close but know that sometimes you need to step back and let the flame rise by itself.
Inside the Box
There is a lot to be said for creativity and thinking “outside the box,” but the Torah teaches us about the value of the other side of the equation.
After the command to light the Menora, the Torah emphasizes that Aaron fulfilled the task exactly: “And Aaron did so.” Rashi explains that the Torah is telling
us this, “in order to praise Aaaron that he did not deviate.” He did not do more or less than what he was commanded, he did not look for new or different ways to fulfill the commandment, and he did not suggest an alternative format for lighting the Menora.
It is not as simple as it sounds to do something exactly as you are told to. Some 200 years ago, Rebbe Nachman of Breslov wrote a statement that I find amazing: “The time will come when being an upright and simple person will be as revolutionary as being the Baal Shem Tov.” Have we already come to the point when everything is so confusing and challenging that the person who is not constantly reinventing things and thinking out of the box is in fact the biggest novelty of all?
Translated by Yehoshua Siskin and Janine Muller Sherr
Want to read more by Sivan Rahav Meir?
Google The Daily Thought or visit sivanrahavmeir.com
Meir Shua in his grocery store motzaei Shabbat
Elevation Day Arriving In South Florida
On June 29th, a transformative spiritual experience will take place in Sunny Isles Beach. Elevation Day, a 12-hour immersive seminar hosted by the Lighthouse Torah Project, is bringing the global Elevation Project to South Florida for the first time. The event promises a blend of deep Jewish mysticism, modern emotional healing tools, and high-end sensory production, all designed to open hearts and elevate souls.
The Lighthouse Torah Project,
The host organization Lighthouse Torah Project, has been a pillar of spiritual growth in South Florida since 2015. Over the past decade, the Lighthouse has brought renowned speakers, rabbis, and spiritual leaders to the community. “We’ve built a movement centered on Torah learning and meaningful experiences,” says Michael Benmeleh, Director of the Lighthouse Torah Project. “And now, we’re taking it to the next level by partnering with Rabbi Daniel Katz and the Elevation Project.”
Lighthouse’s mission is to create Torah experiences that are not only intellectually enriching but emotionally resonant. This includes meditation Deveikus classes, immersive retreats, and ongoing spiritual programming throughout the region. Their commitment to excellence is evident—everything from the event sound design to the location is curated with care.
From South Florida to the World: Elevation’s
Expanding Reach
The Lighthouse Torah Project was instrumental in first bringing Rabbi Katz to South Florida years ago. Since then, the partnership has
flourished, with several highly successful meditation retreats co-hosted by the two groups. “I’ve been to two Elevation retreats already,” says Michael Benmeleh “They’re life-changing. People walk away feeling spiritually transformed, no matter where they started—whether they’re ultra-Orthodox or completely unaffiliated.”
As more Jews relocate to Florida, the Lighthouse sees this as an opportunity to deepen spiritual offerings in the region. “South Florida is becoming a center for Jewish renewal,” Michael Benmeleh explains. “This is about helping people experience God in a real, tangible way.”
Why High-End Presentation Matters
Whether it’s a local Torah class or a 400-person event, the Lighthouse Torah Project insists on excellence. “Everything we do— from the lighting to the sound to
the food—is intentional,” they say. “When you present Torah in a beautiful, immersive way, people are more open to receiving it.”
Rabbi Katz echoes this sentiment. “Judaism is meant to be experienced with depth and beauty. When the physical environment matches the spiritual aspiration, the impact is exponential.”
A Vision for the Future: The Lighthouse Center Looking ahead, the Lighthouse Torah Project has big plans. “With Hashem’s help, We’re building toward a permanent center—something we’re calling The Lighthouse. A physical space dedicated to Torah learning, meditation, healing, and spiritual growth.”
The future center would house daily programming, events, and classes—creating a hub for those seeking connection and community in South Florida’s vibrant Jewish landscape.
Meet Rabbi Daniel Katz: From Secular Filmmaker to Spiritual Pioneer
Rabbi Katz’s journey is one of soul-searching and transformation. Raised in Melbourne, Australia, in a largely secular environment, Katz spent his early adult years exploring Eastern spirituality—Bud-
COMMUNITY NEWS
dhism, Hinduism, Sufism—before discovering the depths of his own tradition.
“I had no real connection to Judaism growing up,” Katz says. “But something changed when I visited Israel at age 24. I found myself at the Kotel without even knowing what it was—and I felt something ancient and powerful awaken inside me.”
Returning to Australia, Katz attempted to resume his film career but felt spiritually restless. “There’s a concept in Kabbalah called a reshima—an imprint. Once something is awakened in your soul, it’s hard to silence it.”
He returned to Israel, immersed himself in Torah study, and gradually transitioned from student to teacher. With a background in theater and filmmaking, Katz had a unique ability to explain deep mystical concepts in accessible and emotionally impactful ways. He began to teach widely and soon launched what would become a global movement: The Elevation Project.
The Elevation Project: Ancient Wisdom, Modern Tools
The Elevation Project offers transformational Torah experiences through retreats, seminars, and guided meditations. Drawing from Chassidic and Kabbalistic sources, it introduces participants to spiritual consciousness, emotional healing, and what Katz calls “experiential deveikus”—direct connection with the Divine.
“We’re not here to make people religious,” Katz clarifies. “Elevation isn’t about kiruv. It’s about giving Jews—religious, secular, or unaffiliated—a Judaism they can believe in. One that’s alive, healing, and deeply personal.”
Events have been held around
the world, from Mexico to Jerusalem, attracting hundreds of participants at a time. Previous retreats in Tulum and Tepoztlán have drawn over 200 people each, offering days of immersive Torah learning, meditative practice, and spiritual breakthroughs. “It’s like five days in Olam Haba,” says Michael Benmeleh. “You come out different.”
Elevation Day in Miami
While retreats usually last five days, Elevation Day aims to deliver a powerful one-day version of that experience. “It’s a 12-hour journey into the self,” says Rabbi Katz. “People walk in carrying blocks and confusion—and walk out lighter, clearer, and more connected.”
The event includes guided meditation, live music, immersive sound design, spiritual exercises, and teachings from Rabbi Katz. Everything is produced at the highest level—from gourmet kosher meals to state-of-the-art stage design.
Why the focus on aesthetics? “Because the experience matters,” explains Michael Benmeleh “Just like we build beautiful synagogues to reflect the beauty of Torah, we want these events to feel sacred, intentional, and uplifting.”
Elevation Day is expected to draw over 400 participants from across the community, including Orthodox Jews, spiritual seekers, and even those with no formal background. “People are hungry for something real,” Katz says. “And Torah, in its deepest form, has always
offered that.”
A Message for a Generation Katz believes we are living in a prophetic era of spiritual awakening. Quoting the Zohar, he explains that in the generation before Moshiach, divine wisdom will flood the world. “People aren’t just hungry for information anymore. They’re seeking transformation. They want to feel connected.”
For secular Jews, the message resonates deeply. “We often hear people say, ‘I’ve been to Tony Robbins, to Joe Dispenza—but this is what I’ve really been searching for. And I’m blown away that it comes from my own tradition.’”
For the religious, the experience often unlocks new depth. “People tell us, ‘I’ve learned Tanya for years, but now I finally understand it. I know how to do it.’”
Conclusion: The Future is Ancient
As Rabbi Katz puts it: “The future of personal development is ancient.” The Elevation Project is not just reviving lost spiritual tools— it’s activating them for today’s generation. And Elevation Day is just the beginning.
“This is a huge moment for South Florida,” says Michael Benmeleh. “With so many Jews moving here, this puts our region on the map spiritually. It’s a next-level step in Jewish growth—and we’re honored and excited to be part of it. Hashem is ushering the times of Moshiach and we feel like we are on the forefront to bring this knowledge to South Florida and to the world at large.”
The Ebb and Flow of Board Leadership in Our Day Schools and Yeshivot (Part II)
By Dr. Chaim Y. Botwinick
This article represents Part II of a two-partseries.
Important Factors and
Variables
In a wonderful article entitled Board and Leadership
Change, authored by Debra Wilson (National Association of Independent Schools, spring, 2015), several examples are presented which support the contention that dysfunctional school boards may be due in part to several factors including – poor evaluations and communication; poor succession planning for boards; the misuse of power by donors; not working together to address critical policy issues; lack of engagement to accomplish goals; and the inability to remain focused and staying the course.
Several of the signs which strongly suggest dysfunctionality of a yeshiva or Jewish day school board include, but are not limited to:
• Lack of confidentiality
• Lack of trust
•Promotion of personal and political agendas
• Lack of respect
• Lack of transparency
• Micromanagement
• Conflicting agendas
• Inability to understand or support a shared school mission or vision
• Setting school policy in the absence of Da’at Torah
These troubling signs require serious attention and a sense of urgency on the part of senior board leadership. This imperative also requires school board leadership to re-examine and reboot the school’s governing by-laws in order to hopefully eliminate, curtail and/ or discourage these leadership impediments. The ultimate goal is to change school board culture in a manner that promotes appropriate governance practice and professional leadership standards.
To quote several meaningful statements from an Ohio State Board of Education newsletter:
The first indicator of a problem is thinking that one’s appointment to a school board qualifies one to lead; the second symptom is believing that one’s appointment to the school board qualifies one to lead, I take the liberty of adding the third symptom which is behaving and acting in a manner that suggests that one’s selection to the board qualifies one to lead.
These three assumptions are offered to suggest that leading is earned. It is not an automatic magical manifestation or an entitlement, nor does it suggest self-empowerment just because of an appointment. It requires training, sensitivity, modeling and experience. This is especially true when it impacts the lives of senior educational professionals who have devoted their lives to chinuch and leading schools at tremendous sac-
rifice to their families, and eventually the culture of the school or yeshiva,
Potential Solutions:
As indicated, this article does not address head of school or principal leadership effectiveness in our yeshivot or day schools. I and others have opined and written numerous papers, articles and blogs regarding this topic, in addition to the myriad of workshops, conferences seminars and coaching interventions which in part respond to these issues and concerns.
Having said that, the role of the head of school or principal in supporting governance effectiveness is absolutely paramount.
The following are a five-tiered proposal for improving the board condition in our yeshivot and day schools.
1. Board Recruitment and Appointment Criteria
It is essential that day school and yeshiva board leadership develop an extensive and comprehensive review of board recruitment practices and policies. These practices must include select criteria including past volunteer experience, a motivation for serving on the school board, the submission of a resume and a written statement detailing the board candidate’s motivation for serving on the board, In addition, it may require a willingness to provide a financial commitment to the school (minimum gift), and the signing of a written doc-
COMMUNITY NEWS
ument (“contract”) detailing the roles, responsibilities, expectations and practices of an effective school board member.
Consequently, the prospective board member candidate should be interviewed by a board nominating committee and posed very specific targeted questions regarding the candidate’s background and aspirations.
Interviews with prospective board members should never be perceived or interpreted as having “one foot in the door”. It should be viewed as a first step in the nominating/appointment process. Over time, it will be viewed as an honor and privilege, not an entitlement –irrespective of the board member’s communal connections, affiliation, influence or generosity.
This is probably one of the most effective ways to ensure a level of reverence, derech eretz and respect for the role and responsibility of a yeshiva/day school board member which will eventually impact board culture and eventually the quality of chinuch in the school.
2. Onboarding and Provisional Appointments
Once the board candidate/nominee is accepted and invited to serve as a provisional board member for a six month period. This provisional period should be required in order to ensure that the board appointment is an appropriate fit for both the board member and for the school itself.
The board nominating committee should assume full responsibility for overseeing the school’s onboarding or induction process.
In many instances, this activity is conducted with the assistance and guidance of a consultant, head
of school and/or Rosh HaYeshiva.
3. Leadership Training and Development:
Each member of the school board will be required to participate in a comprehensive series of board leadership training and development seminars and workshops. Throughout this process the new board member will be paired with a learning partner/board mentor in order to ensure that he/she has a “go-to” person for questions, concerns, etc., relating to the trainings and their applications. This is similar to the chavruta model when engaging in Torah study.
Topics to be addressed should include, but not be limited to:
• Team building
• Developing effective and respectful working relationship with peers and professional school leadership
• Torah study and learning enrichment opportunities
• Clear delineation of roles and responsibilities
• Solicitation training
• School Governance best practices
4. Individual Performance As-
sessments
Following in a full year of service on the board, the board member will participate in a series of individual and group evaluation and assessment programs. In addition, a 360 review process will measure the board’s effectiveness and compliance as well as provide the board as a total entity with valuable feedback regarding its impact on school policy development and fiscal oversight.
The 360 performance assess-
ment, not unlike a professional performance review, must include evaluative opinions, feedback, input and perceptions of faculty, parents, and the administration.
5. Governance Strategic Plan-
ning
In order for the board to improve and enhance its role and responsibility, it is highly recommended that the school board of directors and senior administrative staff engage in a comprehensive strategic planning process every two years. This process will not focus upon the school’s academic goals, objectives, culture or aspirations but rather on board governance structure, impact, policy and effectiveness.
The ultimate goal of this process will be to develop and create a Board Strategic Action Plan detailing specific goals, objectives, benchmarks, and a timetable for implementation.
It is anticipated that many of the dysfunctional characteristics and toxic dispositions of the board will be addressed, minimized, mitigated and eventually resolved.
It also sets in motion a continued sense of direction and purpose for the board as the governing body for the school.
Conclusion:
As our yeshiva and Jewish day school enrollment increases, so too will our evolving school needs. Critical to this challenge will be the recruitment and retention of high quality teachers, administrators and rabbeim, in addition to heads of school, principals and senior supervisory staff.
For these professional recruitment and retention efforts to succeed, our school boards will need
COMMUNITY NEWS
to ensure more viable and effective governance structures, culture and processes. Otherwise our schools will experience a downward spiraling of its leadership and effectiveness.
Bottom line – the board, as “trustees”, must ensure that the school has the human and capital resources in order to grow, flourish and respond effectively to the evolving needs of the community.
In addition to educational personnel, our schools will need to be extremely mindful and diligent regarding affordability and financial viability. To this end, boards will be challenged to provide our schools with bold and creative leadership in the areas of fundraising, donor identification cultivation and financial resource development. These activities also take place in collaborative partnership with sen-
ior professional school leadership
As we know, schools by definition are resilient depending upon the manner in which the school’s leadership, culture and value proposition evolve and change. Flexibility is therefore imperative.
Over a period of time, as our yeshivot and day schools experience the increased dearth of heads of school and principals, high quality teachers, increased costs and an unswerving demand for competitive fundraising, our governing boards will hopefully come to the realization that the very survival of our schools will depend greatly upon their leadership.
So, as our school boards “ebb and flow”, through the changing governance matrix, they will need to be consciously reminded that day school and yeshiva chinuch is about high quality education of our
children and for their children’s children.
It’s also about thoughtful leadership who are highly trained and who possess clarity of purpose, high standards for excellence and levels of accountability. But above all, their mission is to help lead our schools with kavod and derech eretz and in accordance with the highest Torah standards.
Dr. Chaim Y. Botwinick is a senior executive coach and an organizational consultant. He served as president and ceo of the central agency for Jewish education in Baltimore and Miami; in addition, he was head of school and principal for several Jewish day schools and yeshivot. As an Influencer in education, he has published and lectured extensively on topics relating to education, resource development, strategic planning and leadership development. He is co-founder of LEV Consulting Associates and producer/host for the Chinuch Horizons podcast. Dr. Botwinick is author of “Think Excellence” Brown Books, 2011.
OU Advocacy: Proposed $305 Million for Nonprofit Security Grant Program Falls Short Amid Escalating Antisemitic Attacks
WASHINGTON, D.C. — In the wake of horrific attacks against American Jews, the Orthodox Union Advocacy Center — the public policy arm of the Union of Orthodox Jewish Congregations of America — is calling on Congress to significantly increase funding for the Nonprofit Security Grant Program (NSGP), stating that a House Subcommittee’s proposal of $305 million for FY2026 is “a far cry from what is needed in the face of exploding antisemitism.”
“The pro-Hamas calls to ‘globalize the Intifada’ have arrived in America,” said Nathan Diament, Executive Director of the Orthodox Union Advocacy Center. “Jewish communities are facing a real crisis with a real set of threats, and Congress must respond with real action.”
The Fiscal Year 2026 appropriations process for the Department of Homeland Security, which administers the NSGP, kicks off in earnest later today with the House Appropriations Subcommittee on Homeland Security marking up their initial version of the DHS funding bill for FY2026. The Subcommittee’s draft text proposes $305 million for NSGP.
But OU Advocacy views the NSGP as severely underfunded, despite skyrocketing antisemitism. In 2023, the program re-
ceived 5,257 applications for $679 million in funding, but only 42% were approved. In 2024, more than 7,500 organizations applied for nearly $1 billion in grants, but less than half, $454.5 million, was distributed.
“Every synagogue, school, and community center denied funding is left vulnerable,” said Diament. “Thoughts and prayers are
not going to protect us. It’s time for Congress to step up with the resources needed to keep our communities safe.”
The OU Advocacy is urging Congress to appropriate $500 million for the NSGP in FY2026 — a bipartisan recommendation already endorsed by more than 130 House members and 33 U.S. Senators. The organization is also calling for additional DOJ funding to bolster local police patrols at faith-based institutions and the immediate passage of the Antisemitism Awareness Act
PHOTO: CHIP SOMODEVILLA/GETTY IMAGES
Operation Inspiration: How Fitting
By Rabbi Jonathan Gewirtz
I don’t know about you, but over my lifetime, I’ve struggled with my weight. When I was young, (so I’m told), I was very skinny. Then, as I grew up, I also grew outward. Now, I’m not saying there’s anything wrong with being overweight, especially since it may not be in your control.
There is a famous Gemara in Nida which says that before a baby is born, a malach takes it to Hashem and asks what the nature of the person will be. Essentially, there is a decree from Hashem at that moment, whether they will be tall or short, smart or foolish, rich or poor, and so on. That means if you have looks, money, or brains, that came to you from Hashem and it isn’t something for you to pat yourself on the back for. (See Yirmiyahu 9:22)
However, there is another appearance of this angel in the Midrash Tanchuma. In that version, Hashem also decrees whether the person will be thin or thick, i.e. fat. That’s where I acknowledge that it was Hashem who decided I should be heavy, and I don’t beat myself up about it. Of course, there are those who tell me, “Yeah, but you don’t have to be machmir on the decree!”
Well, I do try to be healthy, and I have lost weight. You know, in my late teens, I lost 150 pounds. Yup. I lost the same 3 pounds, about 50 times.
A few years ago, though, I did manage to lose a significant amount of weight, and I’ve most-
ly kept it off. Of course, I had to get new clothing, but I figured I’d hold onto some of the old stuff. I ended up leaving a suit jacket at a relative’s home so I could use it as a davening jacket when I visited.
On a recent visit, I wore the jacket, but noticed something. Whereas it used to be very comfortable to wear, now it was too large and ill-fitting to enjoy. It still served its purpose in being a designated clothing item for prayer, but the sleeves were too long, I couldn’t close the button because if I did it was ballooning out in the front, and it was just bothersome to wear.
To be honest, I tried on an old Talis, and even THAT was too big on me. It felt bulky and hit the floor much more than when I had more mass between my head and my feet. It occurred to me that this was an interesting perspec-
tive.
I had clothing that was perfectly tailored to my needs, which laid nicely and was fitted to me – or, at least, to who I was at the time. Now, though, I had changed (for the better) and it no longer suited me. When I changed the inside, the outside was incompatible.
In life, we get into habits that fit who we are. Whether it’s our ways of speaking, acting, dressing, or even our service of Hashem, they seem to fit who we are. In fact, at that point they do. But if we aspire to improve and change ourselves for the better, they may no longer fit. Far from being a bad thing, it’s good, because you aren’t likely to revert once they don’t match the new you and even bother you.
When I was in grade school, people used vulgar language, and I wasn’t immune to it. You do what your peers do, and I picked up the bad habit. One day, I decided I was going to change. I had actually seen a non-Jewish boy, several years younger than me, who was playing baseball and someone hit him with a bat by accident. He wasn’t badly injured, but the stream of obscenities pouring from his mouth made me realize how terrible and lowly this behavior was. I started there.
These days, when I work in a world where such words are commonplace, it pains me to hear them. It is so noticeable, in fact, that colleagues will actually apologize and work to control their
mouths when they see me or know I’m listening. They don’t know that I used to fit into that outfit, and I’m glad it no longer suits me.
R’ Dessler discusses this as the “nekudas habechira,” the free-will point. There are some things that you may have had to fight to avoid which you now don’t have to think twice about, like the vulgar language. If not speaking Lashon Hara was a challenge for you, and you spent the time to study its laws and consider your words, at some point you likely found yourself realizing those mean things don’t fit you anymore. They’re bothersome to you and you want to be comfortable in the new way you speak.
What I realized is that when we find things are perfect the way they are; that we are happy with the way we live and serve Hashem, that’s only because of who we are today. However, if we strive to be better each day, then eventually our old selves will be unrecognizable, and the behaviors we dressed ourselves in will look comical even to ourselves.
It’s very rewarding to make the effort and be able to look back and say, “I can’t believe that ever fit me; I’m so glad that it doesn’t now.”
2025 – All Rights Reserved
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.
RELAX MORE trav l s
The perfect summer recharge is close to home. Spend more time in the pool, at the beach, and sleeping in. Just pack your bag and unwind. Whether you join us for shabbos or during the week, experience a quiet, restful staycation.
Escape from the everyday, without the jetlag.
Getting Gazans wrong: Understanding support for Hamas and the Oct. 7 attacks
By Moshe Phillips
Policies concerning refugees, foreign aid and ceasefires must be informedbytherealitythatalarge segment of Gaza’s population supports a terror group.
Leila Fadel on NPR’s Morning Edition on June 5 interviewed Graeme Groom, a British surgeon who worked recently at Nasser Hospital in the Gaza Strip. Groom’s comments were entirely one-sided and naive. “The current campaign is directed almost exclusively at the blameless and defenseless,” he said.
The outrageously false accusation that Israel is specifically targeting civilians echoes some of the darkest periods in Jewish history, when blood libels were a regular occurrence.
Far too many pundits and bureaucrats at the United Nations, European Union and nongovernmental organizations strive to portray Gazans as unwilling captives of Hamas—trapped under an oppressive regime with no power and no responsibility. This view fails to take into account the complicated and troubling reality that a significant portion of Gazans support Hamas and its violent actions, including the terrorist attacks in southern Israel on Oct. 7, 2023.
In March 2024, a survey by the Palestinian Center for Policy and Survey Research (PCPSR), which is based in Ramallah, found that 71% of Gazans said Hamas was “correct” to launch the Oct. 7 ter-
rorist attacks, which included mass killings and kidnappings of Israeli civilians. This view is still above 50% as of now (PCPSR, May 2025). Moreover, 64% of Gazans opposed the disarmament of Hamas (United With Israel, May 2025). This shows not only support for Hamas’s past actions but also a commitment to continued Hamas terrorism.
These murderous views are echoed beyond Gaza as well. In the same PCPSR poll, 88% of Arabs in Judea and Samaria, where Hamas does not govern, also rejected the idea of disarming the group.
This demonstrates that an Israeli Ministry of Foreign Affairs tweet posted on X on April 22 was entirely correct: “The Palestinian Authority isn’t educating children, it’s
indoctrinating them. Maps without Israel. Teachers praising martyrdom. Textbooks that glorify terror. As long as they teach hate, there’s no hope for peace. Stop ignoring it. Stop funding education that leads to terror.”
The Oslo Agreement says that Mahmoud Abbas and his Palestinian Authority henchmen must “apprehend, investigate and prosecute perpetrators and all other persons directly or indirectly involved in acts of terrorism, violence and incitement” (Annex I, Article II, 3-c of Oslo II). The P.A. has ignored that obligation for three decades now.
The P.A. has never taken any tangible actions against incitement. A recent study from Tel Aviv University’s Institute for National
Demonstrators protest calling to end the war in Gaza while others rally in favor of continuing the fighting, at the Hebrew University in Jerusalem on May 12, 2025. Photo by Flash90.
COMMUNITY NEWS
Security Studies (INSS) reviewed P.A. school curricula and found that the P.A. continues to “espouse some of the worst views against Jews and Israel in their textbooks.”
Returning to Gaza, some may respond, as professor Ilya Somin did in an October 2023 article in Reason, by comparing Gazans to Russians living under Vladimir Putin’s regime—people with limited freedom who are not morally culpable for their government’s atrocities. But this analogy only holds if public opinion runs sharply against the ruling power. In Gaza’s case, significant public backing for Hamas is the truth.
That said, dissent does exist in Gaza, and it is dangerous. Criticizing Hamas can result in imprisonment or worse. International reports, such as those from The
Times (London), have documented voices within Gaza who resent Hamas and blame it for the destruction visited upon their society. These individuals exist, and their suffering is real. But dissenters remain a minority, and they do not disprove the fact that widespread support for Hamas continues, as measured in credible polls.
Policies concerning refugees, foreign aid and ceasefires must be informed by the reality that a large segment of Gaza’s population supports a terrorist organization.
Acknowledging this is essential if Israel is to be successful in its effort to destroy Hamas and prevent future Oct. 7-type attacks that Hamas has repeatedly and consistently pledged to carry out. We cannot afford to misunderstand the extremism that endures among
the Gazan majority—doing so risks allowing the terrorist organization to survive. The international community must recognize that Gazans are not victims of Hamas; they are full participants in shaping their society’s situation. They elected Hamas, and they support Hamas. It is time to stop getting Gazans wrong
Moshe Phillips, a veteran pro-Israel activist and author, is the national chairman of Americans For a Safe Israel (AFSI). A former board member of the American Zionist Movement, he previously served as national director of the U.S. division of Herut and worked with CAMERA in Philadelphia. He was also a delegate to the 2020 World Zionist Congress and served as editor of The Challenger, the publication of the Tagar Zionist Youth Movement. His opeds and letters have been widely published in the United States and Israel.
COMMUNITY SNAPS
KYHS YESHIVA OF MIAMI
Last week, KYHS hosted its annual Senior Dinner. This was a special evening filled with laughter, reflection, and unforgettable moments. Surrounded by friends, mentors, and loved ones, the seniors marked the end of one chapter and the exciting beginning of another. Congratulations to the Class of 2025!
Our boys have been working with the JEMS students weekly throughout the year. Their time together culminated in a wonderful lunch at Bubby’s. YoM Mashgiach Rabbi Asher Goldenberg and Several Talmidim Enjoying Lunch
GAN CHABAD
Gan Chabad Preschool celebrates end of year with each individual classCredits: ChabadChayil.org/Preschool
COMMUNITY SNAPS
YACHAD
Magen David Adom to provide critical mass casualty training to international medical professionals as part of Doctors for Israel Onward Fellowship Conference
Treating thousands of terror attack victims yearly, MDA is the emergency medical partner in official Israeli delegations providing humanitarian aid worldwide
Ramle, Israel (June 9, 2025) — Israel’s national emergency services system, Magen David Adom (MDA), will provide four days of specialized training in emergency medical services as part of the Doctors for Israel Onward Fellowship, a program combining professional growth, advocacy training, and hands-on experience in Israel. The fellowship, managed by educational tourism company Tlalim, is a joint effort with Birthright, MDA, and Hadassah University Hospital.
Doctors, nurses, and paramedics who are accepted to the program will attend an exclusive emergency medicine conference from July 15-28, where they will complete a trauma response course with MDA and connect with top medical and policy leaders.
As part of the conference, MDA will provide four days of in-depth educational training, including how to handle mass casualty events and how to treat victims of terror attacks — especially in the first seven minutes following the attack. Participants will also get an insider tour of the secure, underground Marcus Blood Center in Ramle, where the nation’s blood is tested and stored, and will complete an internationally accredited PHTLS trauma response course.
Aside from the MDA-led training, conference participants will visit the site of the Nova attack, meet with national leaders, and tour hospitals and other medical facilities. Following the conference, participants will have the opportunity to put some of their training into practice as they volunteer with MDA, treating patients on mobile intensive care units.
“We are proud to partner with Tlalim on this important project, which brings medical professionals to Israel to learn about trauma and mass casualty response,” said Vicki Angel, MDA’s International Unit project manager.
“In a world where these skills have become increasingly vital, MDA has the expertise to share, and we are honored to welcome fellows to the upcoming conference and work together with them to save lives.”
To learn more and apply, contact RotemE@ masatlalim.com and visit https://doctors. tlalimgroup.com/ for more info.
About Magen David Adom MDA is Israel’s emergency services system. A leader in mass-casualty response and in EMS technology, Magen David Adom treats and transports more than 1 million people to hospitals every year; collects, safety tests, and distributes nearly all the blood to Israel’s hospitals; and responds to disasters around the world. For more information, visit afmda. org.
Motion Is Lotion: Why Movement Matters at Every Age
At Florida Movement Therapy Centers (FLMTC), we believe that motion truly is lotion for your body—no matter your age or ability. Gentle, consistent movement is essential for maintaining healthy joints, reducing pain, and lifting your mood. Whether you’re an active adult or facing mobility challenges, moving regularly can transform your quality of life.
Our joints rely on movement to stay nourished and flexible. Without regular motion, cartilage can stiJen, causing discomfort and limiting your range of motion. Think of your joints like a car engine: without oil, it starts to seize up. Movement acts as natural lubrication, keeping
your body running smoothly. We’ve seen inspiring success stories from many FLMTC clients who started with limited mobility and chronic pain but regained independence through customized movement therapy. Take Mrs. Johnson, a 72-year-old with arthritis, who now enjoys gardening again without pain. Or Mr. Ramirez, who overcame balance issues after a stroke and returned to walking his dog daily. These are just a few examples of how thoughtful movement can restore confidence and joy.
Even if you’re caring for someone with mobility limitations, encouraging gentle movement can reduce stiJness, improve circulation, and support emotional
well-being. Small stretches, assisted walks, or guided therapy sessions can make a big diJerence.
Remember: you don’t have to be an athlete to benefit from movement. It’s about finding what works for your body and doing it regularly. Your joints—and your mood—will thank you!
Florida Movement Therapy Centers is recognized as the leading provider of physical, occupational, speech, and cognitive therapies in Boca Raton and Boynton Beach, specializing in movement disorders, neurological dysfunctions, and orthopedic conditions. We also treat vestibular, gait, and balance issues to help our patients achieve lasting results. Our therapy plans are designed to help individuals reach their personal goals and enjoy a more active and independent lifestyle in South Florida.
Safrus Direct
786-579-0535 |office@safrusdirect.com
V&N Cleaning Service
561-860-0936
$10 off 1st cleaning, $10 off 2nd cleaning. We clean corners, not cut them!
Coolstar Air Service llc A/C Install & Repair (954) 200-1369 | coolstarair@yahoo.com
Fraida Perelstein, Nanny/Childcare/Elder Care: 40+ years of experience, seeks a full time or part time roles in the Miami area. Excellent references available; 347-446-1833 | funkymom63@gmail.com
SEAMSTRESS
Alterations, Dressmaking, including wedding clothes. Phone: (646) 413-4542
IT Tech Support & Low Voltage Services 561-331-1680 | barry@navonpro.com
To place a Business Directory/Classified Listing contact: andrea@tsfcommunityvoice.com
BUSINESS DIRECTORY & CLASSIFIED
List your local business, services available, real estate opportunities, Help Wanted, and more!
Basic listing: $10/weekName, number and email address
Enhanced listing: $25/weekUp to 25 words (additional words $1/each)
Deadline: Tuesday at 4pm for next week's issue
Contact: andrea@tsfcommunityvoice.com
at wwwYeshivaTuitionOrg.godaddysites.com
Glow Through the Ages: Women’s Health Workshop on Skincare for Every Age and Stage
This past Sunday evening, over 40 women gathered in North Miami Beach for a Women’s Health Event hosted by Healing Hearts. The topic of the evening? “Skincare Through the Ages.” The event was a perfect blend of education, information, and community connection—complete with beautifully set tables, a delicious spread of sushi and pastries, and generous skincare sample giveaways.
The keynote speaker of the evening was Rivka Stone, MD PhD FAAD, a board-certified dermatologist affiliated with the University of Miami. Dr. Stone walked attendees through practical, age-appropriate skincare tips for every stage of life—from infant’s delicate skin to teenage breakouts to mature skin maintenance. Her approachable style and wealth of knowledge made the topic feel both accessible and empowering.
Audience participation was high, with thoughtful questions coming from attendees of all ages— from teens to women in their 70s. Throughout her presentation, Dr. Stone highlighted key “pearls” of skincare wisdom for each stage of life. Some of her most memorable takeaways included:
Sun Protection:
In South Florida “sunscreen is not just for the beach.”
“The best sunscreen is the one you want to wear.”
Teenage Acne:
“Treat early and aggressively. Scarring is more difficult and more expensive to get rid of than acne!”
Regarding products: “More expensive does not necessarily mean more effective.”
One of the crowd favorites? Dr.
Stone’s curated list of recommended skincare products, conveniently shared via a QR code, so everyone could browse her picks at their own pace.
The event was more than just skin deep—it was a reminder that taking
care of ourselves is a lifelong commitment, and it’s even better when we can learn and grow together.
Here’s to glowing—at every age! Dr. Rivka Stone works at UHealth Dermatology South Beach, 1045 5th St, Suite 305. The office number is 305-689-2944.
Healing Hearts is a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting the medical needs of South Florida’s Jewish communities. In addition to maintaining kosher rooms in area hospitals, we offer medical referrals, patient advocacy, and appointment coordination to help ease the stress of navigating a diagnosis. We also provide chessed homes near major hospitals and operate a centrally located medical equipment gemach in Hollywood.
Need support? Call, text, or WhatsApp us at 305-676-4325 (HEAL), or email support@ hhflorida.com. We’re here to help—because no one should go through a medical crisis alone!
The Weight of a Few Pounds: The Risks of Using GLP-1 Medications Without a Medical Indication
By Dr. Sarah Rosanel, MD FACC, Concierge Physician in Miami Florida - Internal Medicine Specialist/ Family Medicine and Cardiologist
Leah’s Story
Leah, a 38-year-old mother of two, came into my office looking frustrated. “I’ve always been around 130 pounds,” she said, “but after my second child, I’ve hovered around 140—and I just can’t seem to lose those last ten pounds.”
She ate well, exercised regularly, and had no history of diabetes or obesity. Her BMI was 22.7—well within the normal range. “My friend started Ozempic and dropped 15 pounds in two months,” Leah said. “Can’t I just try it for a little while?”
Leah’s question is increasingly common. Social media is flooded with stories of dramatic weight loss using GLP-1 receptor agonists like Ozempic (semaglutide) and Mounjaro (tirzepatide). Originally developed to manage type 2 diabetes, these medications also help with significant weight reduction in patients with obesity or overweight with related health risks. But now, a growing number of normal-weight individuals are seeking them for cosmetic weight loss—often without understanding the risks.
What Are GLP-1 Medications, and How Do They Work?
GLP-1 agonists mimic a hormone that slows gastric emptying, reduces appetite, and enhances insulin secretion. Mounjaro adds GIP (glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide) action, amplifying these effects. When used appropriately, these medications can transform the lives of people struggling with metabolic disease. But when misused, especially in patients like Leah, they may lead to unintended harm.
The Medical Risks of Using GLP-1s with a Normal BMI
1. Muscle Loss and Malnutrition
Leah’s desire to lose “just 10 pounds” may seem harmless, but on medications that suppress appetite so dramatically, a significant portion of that loss can be lean muscle mass—not fat. This can weaken metabolism, lower energy levels, and increase long-term frailty risk, especially for women as they age.
2. Gastroparesis and GI Distress
GLP-1s can cause profound slowing of the stomach. Nausea, vomiting, and bloating are not uncommon. In rare cases, gastroparesis becomes severe and irreversible.
3. Hormonal and Nutritional Imbalance
With suppressed appetite comes reduced intake—not just of calories, but of essential nutrients, fiber, and protein. Over time, this may result in hair loss, fatigue, and hormonal imbalances—especially in premenopausal women.
4. Mental Health Impacts
In some users, these medications trigger or worsen disordered eating behaviors, body dysmorphia, or obsession with thinness—particularly in those already vulnerable due to societal pressure or postpartum body changes.
5. No Proven Benefit for Normal Weight
Importantly, there’s no medical evidence to support GLP-1 therapy in people with normal BMI and no metabolic illness. The risks outweigh any cosmetic benefit, especially when sustainable, healthy lifestyle changes can yield better long-term results.
A Deeper Question: What Are We Chasing?
When I asked Leah why she wanted to lose those 10 pounds, she paused. “I guess I just want to feel like myself again,” she said. That moment opened a conversation— not about prescriptions, but about expectations, identity, and the invisible pressure placed on women to ‘snap back’ after childbirth.
I reassured her: her vital signs were perfect, her labs normal, and her body healthy. We discussed realistic goal-setting, strength training, nutritional support, and even the emotional journey of reclaiming a sense of self after becoming a mother.
Medicine With a Mission
GLP-1 medications like Ozempic and Mounjaro are powerful, life-changing tools for patients who need them. But like any tool, they can be dangerous when misused. As physicians, our role is to help patients make informed, safe, and holistic decisions—especially when the temptation of a “quick fix” overshadows long-term health.
Dr. Sarah Rosanel is dedicated to educating the community about safe, evidence-based health practices. She practices as a concierge physician based in Miami, FL, specializing in personalized healthcare tailored to the unique needs of her patients. With a holistic approach that blends traditional medicine, lifestyle interventions, and functional medicine, she empowers individuals to achieve optimal health and well-being.
As an expert in Concierge Medicine & Cardiology, Dr. Rosanel integrates cutting-edge medical treatments with holistic methodologies, ensuring comprehensive care that goes beyond symptom management to address the root causes of health concerns. Beyond her medical practice, Dr. Rosanel is a devoted mother to Ariel, Zev, and Shirley, balancing her passion for healing with family life.
Book an Appointment: Call or text (646) 4674368 |Miami, Florida | info@DrRosanel.com
• DINE-IN
• SUSHI PLATTERS
• CATERING SETUP
10% DISCOUNTIF YOU BRING IN THE COMMUNITY VOICE MAGAZINE
• LIVE SUSHI STATION
• DELIVERY & PICKUP
KID’S ZONE KID’S ZONE
Yehudis Schechter North Miami Beach
Shoshana Schechter North Miami Beach
Sara Leah Berkowitz North Miami Beach
KID’S ZONE KID’S ZONE
THANK YOU TO EVERYONE WHO JOINED!
Boynton
14 years old
8 years
7 years old
6
12 years old
8 years old
8
11 years old
10 years old
11 years old
11 years old
6 years old
Chaya Dalfin
Yehuda Lehr Pembroke Pines
Sarita Rosenberg North Miami Beach
years old
Devorah Miller
Beach
Naomi Hadjaev
Eliyahu Glazer Inverrary
years old
Menachem Nassy Coral Springs
Batsheva Goldshmid Inverrary
Shneur Glazer Inverarry
David Azancot Aventura
Malka Goldshmid Inverrary
Evelyn Saka Miami Beach 11 years old
Michal Azancot Aventura
old
Elisheva LaBrie North Miami Beach
Yehudis LaBrie North Miami Beach
Adi Edelshtein Hollywood
KID’S ZONE KID’S ZONE
FACTS ABOUT RAIN DID YOU KNOW THAT...
Rain Isn’t Always Water
On Venus, it rains sulfuric acid— but it evaporates before reaching the ground due to the planet’s extreme heat!
The Smell of Rain Has a Name
That fresh, earthy scent after a rainfall is called petrichor. It comes from oils released by plants and soil bacteria.
The Wettest Place on Earth
Mawsynram, India receives an average of 467 inches of rain per year—over 38 feet!
It Can Rain Fish
In Honduras, a rare weather phenomenon called “Lluvia de Peces” (Rain of Fish) happens where fish literally fall from the sky during heavy storms.
Raindrops Aren’t Tear-Shaped
Despite popular drawings, real raindrops are more like hamburger buns when they fall—round on top and flat on the bottom.
Rain Can Fall at Different Speeds
Raindrops typically fall at 2 to 20 mph, depending on size. Larger drops fall faster, but air resistance slows them down.
It Once Rained for 2 Years Straight
In Meghalaya, India, one town recorded over 730 consecutive days of rain between 1860 and 1861.
Colorful Rain Exists
Sometimes, rain can appear red, yellow, or even black when mixed with dust or volcanic ash.
“Blood rain” has been reported in Europe!
Rain Shapes Landscapes
Over time, rain causes erosion, carving out valleys, cliffs, and even canyons. It’s nature’s slow but steady sculptor.
Humans Aren’t the Only RainLovers
Some animals—like frogs and snails—become more active during rain. In many cultures, their sounds signal that rain is coming.
HISTORY’S HEROES
CRAFT. PAINT. BAKE. EXPERIMENT.
HILLEL 3651 - 3768 1,000 2,000
2. THE NUGGET
NEXT WEEK'S SUPPLY LIST
-Printed Template
-4oz Plastic Containers
-Thin Paintbrushes
-Popsicle Stick
-Sheet Protectors
-Food Coloring: Black, Blue, and 2 Colors of Choice
-Elmer’s glue
-Dish Soap
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!
4,000 5,000
1. LIFE STORY SNIPPET
As Hillel was preparing for Shabbos, a man came to him with strange and insulting questions with the intention to aggravate and inconvenience Hillel. But Hillel listened and responded with kindness. The man came back twice more, each time with a similarly unimportant question. But each time, Hillel remained patient and answered his questions with composure. When the man saw he could not anger Hillel, he became upset, realizing he had lost 400 zuz – a big sum of money. He had made a deal with someone that if he could anger Hillel, he would win this sum, but if not, he would have to pay it. Hillel responded, “It is better that you lose 400 Zuz rather than I get angry.”
4. STORY
A non-Jew once came before Hillel asking to be taught the entire Torah on one foot. Hillel gently told him, “That which is hateful to you, do not do to your fellow. That is the entire Torah, and the rest is commentary. Now go and study.”
Hillel HaZaken, born in Bavel, only began intensive Torah study at age 40. He used a great portion of his meager salary to pay the entry fee to the Beis Medrash. He was offered financial support by his wealthy brother Shevna, in return for splitting the merits of his study. Hillel refused, insisting his Torah study was worth more than money could pay for. After solving a complicated Halachic issue that no one else could answer, he was appointed the leader of the Jewish people. He established a house of study, “Beis Hillel,” which viewed the law through a lens of compassion, influenced by his kind nature. The Halacha most often went according to Beis Hillel rather than Beis Shammai, another academy of Torah study.
3. BRINGING IT DOWN
When someone does an irritating behavior, whether it’s asking too many questions, making a mess, sniffling too loudly, or the like, it is easy to lose patience or get upset at the person doing it. Hillel teaches us to work on being patient and kind to people, no matter what.
5. QUESTION TO CONSIDER
What does a kind and patient response to someone look like?
LEMON OOBLECK
Today we will be making oobleck. Add 4 drops of blue food coloring to a cup of water and mix it with a popsicle stick until the water turns blue.
Blow up a balloon a little bit and twist it to keep the air in. Stretch the balloon’s opening over the top of the bottle.
Put some cornstarch into a bowl. Pour in the blue water and while wearing gloves, mix everything until it’s smooth and you can’t see any powder.
Flip the bottle upside down and let the oobleck fall into the balloon. Once it’s in, take the balloon off the bottle, and let all the air out of the bottle. Tie a knot, and then cut the neck above the knot.
6 3 8 2 5 7 4 1
Slide the leaf onto a pipe cleaner, and wrap the pipe cleaner around the knot at the top of the balloon like a stem.
SCIENCE UNCOVERED
Place a funnel on top of a water bottle. Carefully pour the oobleck into the funnel so it goes into the bottle.
To make the leaf, fold a piece of green foam in half. Cut a curved shape and punch a hole near the bottom.
Now give your lemon a squeeze and wait to feel the oobleck ooze.
Oobleck is a fun and strange substance made from just cornstarch and water, and it acts like both a solid and a liquid! When you touch it gently or let it sit still, it flows like a liquid. But if you punch it or squeeze it, it feels hard like a solid. That’s because oobleck is a non-Newtonian fluid, which means it doesn’t follow the normal rules of how liquids are supposed to behave. Its particles lock together under pressure, which is why it gets stiff when you try to move it quickly!
SUPPLIES LIST
-½ Cup of Corn Starch
-¼ Cup + 2 TSP of Water
-Blue Food Coloring -Bowl
-Funnel
-Gloves
-Popsicle Stick
-Empty Water Bottle
-Scissors
-Yellow Balloon
-3” Light Brown Pipe Cleaner
-1x1" Square of Light Green Foam
-Hole Puncher
**Warning: Balloon may pop**
Ingredients
Papaya Guacamole
By Jamie Geller
• 15 MIN DURATION • 15 MIN PREP TIME • 4 SERVINGS •
• 2 ripe avocados, peeled, pitted and diced
• Juice of ½ lemon
• ½ to ¾ teaspoon kosher salt
• Dash hot sauce
• ½ small yellow onion, peeled and diced
• ½ ripe papaya, peeled, seeded and cut into ¼-inch dice
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro
• 1 (6-ounce) bag tortilla chips
This sweet twist on traditional guacamole can be made up to 4 hours ahead. Cover it with plastic wrap touching the top of the guacamole, sealing out all air and keep it refrigerated.
Preparation
1. In a large bowl, combine avocado, lemon juice, salt and hot sauce. Mash with a fork to reach desired consistency, leaving some chunks.
2. Stir in onion, papaya and cilantro and serve with tortilla chips.
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.
Loaded Baked Potato
By Jamie Geller
• 15 MIN DURATION • 15 MIN PREP TIME • 4 SERVINGS •
Ingredients
• 6 (8-ounce) Idaho potatoes
• 1 tablespoon canola oil
• 1 medium onion, coarsely chopped
• 1 (1-pound) bag frozen broccoli florets, thawed
• 1 cup Temp Tee Whipped Cream Cheese
• 1 tablespoon kosher salt
• 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 2 cups Les Petite Fermieres Shredded Cheddar
A traditional recipe made easy by using a house hold staple like cream cheese in place of sour cream
Preparation
1. Preheat oven to 350° F.
2. Prick the potatoes with a fork and cook in the microwave on high for 12 minutes. While potatoes are in the microwave, heat oil in a large sauté pan over medium heat. Sauté onions in oil until translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in broccoli.
3. When potatoes are done, cut them in half and scoop
out the flesh. Mash the flesh with cream cheese, salt, and pepper; and put the mixture back into the skins, filling them about three-quarters full. Distribute broccoli and onions evenly among the potato halves and top with cheddar.
4. Bake for 15 to 25 minutes or until cheese is bubbly and the potatoes are cooked through.
Encapsulating the Past, Building the Future
By Gedaliah Borvick
Jerusalem is a city literally built on its past. Every time a shovel pierces the ground, there’s a chance of uncovering history –sometimes glorious, sometimes inconvenient. From archaeological treasures to ancient tunnels to long-forgotten graves, construction projects in the capital can occasionally be a careful negotiation between development and preservation.
Of all the discoveries that can surface during excavation work, graves are among the most sensitive. When a suspected Jewish grave is found, construction doesn’t just grind to a halt — it enters a holding pattern of halachic consultation, archaeological assessment, and logistical recalibration.
Today, the go-to solution is a method known as encapsulation. Rather than disturbing the grave, it is carefully enclosed in a protective casing and respectfully relocated – often to the edge of the site. This process ensures that kavod hameit (dignity for the deceased) is upheld while allowing development to continue.
It’s a delicate dance between past and future – one that Jerusalem has slowly mastered. Gone are the days when a single grave could paralyze a project for years. Thanks to the collaboration between developers, rabbinic authorities, and the Israel Antiquities Authority, there is now a clear protocol that honors halacha (Jewish law) and enables growth.
For developers, it’s a practical path forward, avoiding major delays and costly confrontations. For city residents, it means new housing can rise without erasing history. And for religious authorities, it ensures that halacha is observed with care and precision.
One vivid example is Givat Hamatos. This new 2,600-unit neighborhood is rising in southern Jerusalem – the first largescale residential development in decades and a critical part of the city’s housing future. But before a single crane went up, archaeologists surveyed the land and uncovered signs of ancient life: terraced farms and burial caves from the Second Temple period.
Working with the Israel Antiquities Authority, the developers creatively adjusted the plans to preserve the archaeological integrity of the site. In some areas, graves were encapsulated and moved to the perimeter. In others, roads were gently rerouted to leave ancient remains undisturbed.
Another example goes even further back in our history. A few
years ago, during excavation for a new residential development in the Arnona neighborhood, archaeologists made a remarkable discovery: a sprawling administrative complex from the First Temple period. The site included buildings and dozens of jar handles stamped with the words L’melech (“belonging to the king”) – likely used to collect and store taxes in the form of grain and oil.
Rather than freeze the project, the developers and the Israel Antiquities Authority worked together to excavate and document the site. In areas where ancient graves were found, the solution followed the now-familiar script: encapsulation and respectful relocation to the periphery. Construction continued, but not at the expense of Jerusalem’s past.
These development challenges are not new, and Jerusalem’s growth has never been straightforward. But in many ways, it’s vintage Jerusalem — where the past is never far beneath the surface, and where building the future means carefully addressing the past.
Perhaps that’s part of what makes Jerusalem real estate so meaningful. Here, a new apartment isn’t just a roof and four walls — it’s a continuation of our story thousands of years in the making.
Gedaliah Borvick is the founder of My Israel Home (www.myisraelhome.com), a real estate agency focused on helping people from abroad buy and sell homes in Israel. To sign up for his monthly market updates, contact him at gborvick@gmail.com.
Encapsulating burial sites.
Photo by Eliezer Goldberg
Don’t Rush: Understanding the Binding Nature of Israeli Contracts
A Critical Warning for American Buyers
As an Israeli attorney who regularly represents American clients, I feel compelled to share an urgent warning about a dangerous misconception that has cost several of my clients dearly. Many Americans investing in Israel mistakenly believe that signing a contract is merely an expression of preliminary interest—a first step in negotiations rather than a final, binding commitment. This misunderstanding can lead to devastating financial consequences.
The Costly Reality
Just last week, a client from Florida contacted me in distress. She had signed what she believed was a preliminary agreement to purchase agricultural land in Israel for nearly one million dollars. The marketing representatives had enthusiastically explained the investment potential, and she assumed she was simply signing an initial document that would allow her time to conduct due diligence and make a final decision later.
To her shock and dismay, she discovered that she had actually signed a fully binding contract. When she attempted to withdraw from the agreement, she was informed that cancellation would require paying a penalty of $70,000. While I believe we can help her escape this obligation, it will be an expensive and complicated legal battle that could have been entirely avoided.
Understanding Israeli Contract Law
Under Israeli law, contracts are binding from the moment they are signed, assuming all essential
By Yitzchak Steinberg
terms are included and both parties have legal capacity to enter the agreement. Unlike some preliminary agreements common in American real estate transactions, Israeli contracts typically do not include extended “cooling-off” periods or contingency clauses that allow buyers to withdraw without penalty.
This fundamental difference in legal approach catches many American investors off-guard. In the United States, particularly in real estate transactions, buyers often expect multiple opportunities to reconsider their decision through inspection periods, financing contingencies, and other protective mechanisms. Israeli contracts, however, operate under the principle that a signature represents a firm commitment.
The Marketing Challenge
The situation becomes more complex when dealing with investment opportunities marketed to overseas buyers. Sales representatives, eager to close deals, may present contracts in ways that downplay their binding nature. They might emphasize the “opportunity” aspect while glossing over the legal obligations being created.
American investors, accustomed to more flexible preliminary agreements, may interpret sales presentations through the lens of their familiar legal framework, leading to dangerous assumptions about their ability to withdraw from agreements.
Protecting Yourself
Before signing any contract in Israel, take these essential precautions:
Demand Professional Review: Never sign any agreement without
having it reviewed by a qualified Israeli attorney who understands both Israeli law and American business practices.
Ask Explicit Questions: Specifically ask whether the document creates immediate, binding obligations or merely expresses preliminary interest.
Understand Penalties: Ensure you fully comprehend any cancellation fees, penalties, or forfeiture clauses before signing.
Take Time: Resist pressure to sign immediately. Legitimate opportunities will allow reasonable time for legal review.
Get Everything in Writing: Ensure all verbal promises and explanations are incorporated into the written agreement.
The Bottom Line
Israeli investments can offer excellent opportunities, but they require careful navigation of a different legal landscape. The cost of proper legal counsel before signing pales in comparison to the potential financial devastation of binding yourself to an unwanted obligation.
Remember: in Israel, your signature means business. Don’t let enthusiasm override prudence, and always seek qualified legal guidance before making any commitment.
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
In 2012, the athletic company Adidas paid an astounding $150 million to secure exclusive sponsorship rights for the London Olympics. It was a major marketing play with prime branding, international visibility, and all the perks that come with being an official Olympic partner. But despite this massive investment, Nike managed to dominate the conversation and, more importantly, sales. All it took was one brilliant idea and a few creative loopholes.
Since Nike wasn’t an official sponsor, they weren’t allowed to reference the Olympics, London, or Team GB whatsoever in any of their advertising. On paper, it seemed like a massive marketing win for Adidas. But instead of backing down, Nike did what they do best: they got creative.
First, they tackled the location restriction. Nike couldn’t say “London, UK” - so they found other Londons. Their commercial featured everyday athletes in places like London, Ohio; East London in South Africa; and even Little London in Jamaica. It was a clever workaround that allowed them to maintain the theme and spirit of the Games without crossing any legal lines.
Second, Nike couldn’t market at the Olympics, but they could sponsor individual Olympians. So they signed some … 400 of them. Each one was given a custom green-and-yellow sneaker called the “Volt,” a color chosen explicitly
Find Your Greatness
By Shmuel Shayowitz
for maximum visibility on screen. These sneakers popped across TV screens and stadiums around the world, quietly implanting Nike’s presence into Olympic coverage, all without saying a word.
But the third move might have been the most powerful. Because Nike wasn’t allowed to feature Olympians in their ads, they focused on ordinary people. Their campaign, titled “Find Your Greatness,” featured everyday individuals chasing personal goals … training before sunrise, pushing themselves when almost on empty, and clips of people staying committed to the pursuit of self-betterment. It was raw, relatable, and deeply inspiring.
These weren’t just marketing stunts - they were lessons in creative problem-solving. When faced with constraints, Nike didn’t complain or retreat; instead, they adapted. They worked harder, thought differently, and found unique ways to achieve their goals. The result? They didn’t just compete with Adidas … they stole the show.
And that’s the real takeaway here: Sometimes, you don’t need the biggest budget or the perfect conditions. What you need is creativity, precision, and the courage to take action, even when the rules seem stacked against you.
I see this all the time in the financial world. People often come to me facing restrictions - limited income, rising debt, or big decisions that feel overwhelming. It’s
easy to assume that without more resources, there’s no way forward. But that’s rarely the case.
Like Nike, success often comes down to strategy. It’s about identifying overlooked opportunities, making the most of what’s available, and building a plan that fits your personal goals. You don’t need an official title or ideal circumstances to find your greatness. Sometimes, all you need is someone to help you see the possibilities that already exist.
If you’re navigating financial challenges or trying to make more of what you have, know that there is a path forward. Greatness isn’t exclusive. It’s earned - in subtle choices, smart decisions, and relentless persistence.
Would you rather have a personal driver or a personal chef? I’d love to hear your answer! 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 highly regarded Real Estate & Finance Executive, Writer, Speaker, Coach, and Advisor. He is President and Chief Lending Officer of Approved Funding, a privately held national mortgage banker and direct lender that has facilitated over $3 billion in mortgage funding. Shmuel has over twenty years of industry experience, holding numerous licenses and accreditations, including certified mortgage underwriter, licensed real estate agent, residential review appraiser, and accredited investor, to name a few. Shmuel has successfully navigated through many changing markets and business landscapes, making his market insights and experience well-coveted within the real estate industry. He can be reached via email at Shmuel@ approvedfunding.com.
