A weekly glimpse into the Israel you won’t read about in the news
By Sivan Rahav Meir
Climbing the Ladder
The accompanying illustration is a reflection of what we’re going through these days during the Counting of the Omer, when we count each day (for seven full weeks) from the Exodus on Passover until the giving of the Torah on Shavuot. There are times in life when progress has to be slow. Precious and sacred things are built gradually, one level at a time. We climb rung by challenging rung because not everything can be achieved in one leap.
The Kabbalists explain that during the Omer, we refine seven inner traits, one each week: Chesed (the capacity to give), Gevurah (the ability to set boundaries),
Tiferet (the ability to balance the first two), Netzach (which means both endurance and eternity), Hod (the ability to show gratitude), Yesod (which integrates the previous traits and connects to the foundation of our being), Malchut (which connects to the sovereignty of God—and to our own dignity, the way we act in the world).
(This, of course, is just a rudimentary explanation; each trait contains infinite depth and layers of meaning.) But we don’t have to be great scholars to advance during these days, step by step. With every day counted, we refine our character and become
better versions of ourselves so that by Shavuot we are truly ready to receive the Torah.
The Holy Fire of Lag BaOmer
Friday May 16 is Lag BaOmer, the 33rd day of the counting of the Omer and the yahrzeit (anniversary of death) of Rabbi Shimon Bar Yochai. All over the world, Chabad organizes parades for children on Lag BaOmer. This year, these parades will be another vehicle for expressing our prayers for the hostages, for our soldiers, and for all the Jewish people.
Rabbi Shimon Bar Yochai, whose yahrzeit is marked with huge bonfires, was the author of the Zohar, the book of Kabbalah. Even if we personally are not capable of studying and understanding this facet of the Torah—we recognize that it exists. The Torah is far deeper than we could ever
imagine. Similarly, the people around us (and we ourselves!) also have, deep inside, a layer that is secret and holy.
Part of this secret, holy dimension of our nation revealed itself after October 7, 2023. We have discovered, beneath the surface, endless, hidden resources of power, resilience and unity. Rabbi Shimon taught that if we study the hidden Torah and discover more about ourselves and the treasures within us, we will be redeemed from exile and released from all of our suffering. May we merit to see it soon.
Restraint … and Repair
It’s no secret that delaying gratification is one of humanity’s greatest challenges. Every time we succeed in restraining ourselves, we repair something significant in the world. Our Sages explain that the sin of Adam Harishon was his inability to restrain himself from eating from the Tree of Knowledge.
The Torah touches on this idea in last week’s parashah in the command that we wait three years from the planting of a tree before eating its fruit: “When you enter the land and plant any tree for food… three years it shall be forbidden for you, not to be eaten.” These three years act to curb a person’s natural tendency to grab the fruit right now, and to thereby repair humanity’s first fundamental sin.
Even those of us who aren’t farmers and don’t plant trees can
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find meaning in this mitzvah, and try to train ourselves to act with restraint. For instance: developing patience as we wait for a small child to grow up, curbing our irritation while waiting in line at the supermarket or in a traffic jam, and refraining from mindlessly scrolling on our phone or giving in to any other bad habit. Every time we succeed in restraining ourselves just a tiny bit more, we repair something in the world and bring it closer to its rectification.
To accomplish this task, we don’t need to wait three years — even three seconds is an accomplishment. Take a deep breath and try it. Good luck!
Seniors’ Week
Last week, we read in the parashah: “You shall rise before the aged and show deference to the old; you shall fear your God, I am the Lord.”
About a decade ago, Uri Orbach z”l, then pensioner affairs minister, initiated a wonderful program called “Shabbat Vehadarta,” a Shabbat to honor seniors. In Israel, many programs are held to honor the seniors in our community: elderly community members are called up to the Torah and schoolchildren visit old age homes and the homes of elderly people.
When he established this initiative, Uri Orbach addressed the Knesset saying, “We all know that, sadly, seniors usually only make headlines when bad
things happen, for example, elder abuse. This week we will have the opportunity to focus on the tremendous contribution of seniors to our society and to their life experience. For this program, we won’t require a special budget — only awareness and loving attention.”
So, pick up the phone and call
your grandmother. Look around at the elderly people in your community and appreciate every wrinkle and every year of the lives they’ve lived.
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Translated by Yehoshua Siskin, Janine Muller Sherr
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Holocaust Survivor Celebrates 100th Birthday with Lubavitch
Saul Dreier never got to finish his education in Krakow, Poland before the Nazis dragged him off to concentration camps. The sole survivor of his family, he rebuilt his life in Florida and even founded the Holocaust Survivor Band. But his Jewish education remained cut short.
Saul’s stolen youth can never be returned. But a few years ago, the students of Miami’s Lubavitch Educational Center gave him a little back when they bestowed upon him the title of Honorary Student at LEC. It’s since become tradition for Saul to come to school every year to interact and engage with the students on his birthday.
His milestone 100th birthday this year was no different. The students of LEC’s Boys Middle School and, the next day, Beis Chana High School, welcomed Saul with a grand birthday bash and got to celebrate with the spry centenarian.
After emotionally pronouncing the bracha of Shehecheyanu, partaking in some birthday cake, and reading a card the students had prepared for him, Saul reminded the students, as he always does, not to take their education for granted and to do well in their studies—if only for his sake. “This is the legacy you carry from your parents and grandparents,” he told them.
The highlight of the boys’ celebration came when eighth grader Sholom Kamchin announced his intention to learn a complete mesechta in memory of Saul’s murdered parents and siblings. “You can finally do for my
Educational Center
parents what I couldn’t,” exclaimed Saul.
“Mr. Dreier is more than a survivor,” says student Batia Tevardovitz, grade 11. “He’s a teacher and a role model for us. The strength he’s shown throughout his life and the kindness and wisdom he shares with us so freely continue to inspire us. He shows us what it means to live with courage, grace, and a full heart even in the face of unthinkable hardship.”
Boys Middle School Principal Rabbi Yakov Garfinkel notes that Saul has had a real impact on the students. “Each visit is a priceless moment,” he says. As Shoshana Duchman, grade 11, told Mr.
Dreier, “We are reminded by you and all survivors that we have an important job to never forget and remain strong in our Torah, mitzvos and Yiddishkeit.”
“LEC aims to instill in our students the values of learning from every individual,” says LEC’s head of school, Rabbi Benjy Korf. “Witnessing Saul, a Jew who showcased the unwavering dedication of the Jewish people while continuing to serve G‑d with joy has ignited a sense of admiration among our students.”
Mazel tov and happy birthday, Mr. Dreier!
Temple Beth El Hosts Annual Project Nuremberg Event Chaired by SSRGA’s Robin Bresky
Event co founderJayWeinberg, American Jewish Committee CEO Ted Deutch, and Palm Beach County Sheriff Ric Bradshaw receiveprestigiousawards
Project Nuremberg event co founder Jay Weinberg, American Jewish Committee CEO Ted Deutch, and Palm Beach County Sheriff Ric Bradshaw were all honored at this year’s Project Nuremberg Lawyers Luncheon held on April 25th in Boca Raton.
The event, chaired by Robin Bresky, managing partner of Schwartz Sladkus Reich Greenberg Atlas’ South Florida office, is an annual program of Temple Beth El in Boca Raton. The event is meant to remind the community that the rule of law is what brought order to a post Holocaust and World War II world. Each year, Temple Beth El brings together hundreds of attorneys and other special guests gather to learn how those lessons are still relevant today.
“As global antisemitism continues to grow, the importance of remembering the rule of law in response to the Holocaust is more vital than ever,” said Bresky. “This luncheon helps us reflect on the lessons of history and how they guide our pursuit of justice today.”
Weinberg was celebrated for Lifetime Achievement in promoting humanity and the rule of law. He is a veteran attorney and the chairman emeritus of Hirschler Fleischer law firm in Richmond, Virginia. Weinberg is a longtime
servant of the Jewish community and, for the past 14 years, has been a leader and visionary who helped found and sustain Temple Beth El’s Project Nuremberg Lawyers Luncheon, along with his wife
Marilyn. Deutch, the keynote speaker, received the Jay and Marilyn Weinberg Rule of Law Award. Deutch served 12 years in Congress, representing parts of Palm Beach
Robin Bresky, Marilyn Weinberg, Jay Weinberg, Sheriff Ric Bradshaw, Ted Deutch, Rabbi Dan Levin
Marilyn Weinberg, Jay Weinberg, Rabbi Dan Levin
Rabbi Dan Levin, Ted Deutch, Jill Deutch, Robin Bresky
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and Broward Counties. Through decades of public service, he has championed the State of Israel and the Jewish people in the US House of Representatives, the Florida Senate, and in his current role as leader of the AJC.
Sheriff Bradshaw received the Civility Award. He has served as Palm Beach County Sheriff since January 2005, leading a department of 4,300 employees and 1,600 volunteers. He is currently the longest serving Sheriff in county history. Bradshaw has worked closely with the Jewish community in Palm Beach County, supporting efforts to keep synagogues and Jewish organizations safe and secure.
“Today we celebrate the law and the rule of law – and those who practice and enforce it with integ rity, fairness, and deep humanity,” said Temple Beth El’s Senior Rab bi Dan Levin. “We are so proud to commemorate the memory of the Holocaust by celebrating how on the ashes of millions, the Allies chose to build a new world order based on the fundamental values of compassion, justice, humanity, and the rule of law.”
Past speakers at the event include Ben Ferencz, Avner Avraham, Senator Christopher Dodd, Alan Dershowitz, Florida Supreme Court Justice Robert Luck, Eli M. Rosenbaum, and many more distinguished guests.
About Schwartz Sladkus Reich Greenberg Atlas LLP (SSRGA)
With offices in New York City and Boca Raton, SSRGA is a full service law firm with practice areas including appellate law, matrimonial
and family law, real estate, real estate development, cooperative and condominium board representation, real estate related and commercial litigation, health care, trusts and estates, probate administration, not for profit, corporate, landlord/ tenant, financing, and intellectual property. For more information, visit ssrga.com.
About Project Nuremberg
For over a decade, Temple Beth El’s Project Nuremberg has brought high profile speakers to the local community to show that
law is what brought order to a post Holocaust, post WWII world. Each year, hundreds of attorneys gather at Temple Beth El for the annual Lawyers Luncheon, which showcases these speakers and allows them to share their unique experiences with the law. Past speakers have included Ben Ferencz, Avner Avraham, Senator Christopher Dodd, Alan Dershowitz, Florida Supreme Court Justice Robert Luck, Eli M. Rosenbaum, and many more distinguished guests. For more information about Temple Beth El, visit tbeboca.org.
Congressman and Gubernatorial Candidate Byron Donalds Visits Miami’s Lubavitch Educational Center
Florida Congressman and gubernatorial candidate Byron Donalds visited Lubavitch Educational Center on Monday and met with fifty rabbis, community activists, and repre sentatives of the South Florida Jewish com munity and its local Jewish schools.
The congressman was joined by his wife, Erika Donalds, who works for the US Sec retary of Education, Miami Dade County Sheriff Rosie Cordero Stutz, and community activist Barbara Feingold.
“As the largest Jewish school in the US out side New York, Congressman Donalds’s visit here is a powerful affirmation of the shared values that bind our community to his vision for Florida’s future,” said Rabbi Benjy Korf, LEC’s head of school.
Donalds, who grew up in Crown Heights and got his start in politics from championing school choice, expressed his commitment to working to give every child access to a qual ity education that is right for them. He also pledged to continue fighting antisemitism, especially on campus, which he has been doing via his position on the House Over sight Committee. He pointed to his recent visit to the antisemitic protest encampments at George Washington University, which he worked with law enforcement to disperse, and the bill he co sponsored that reinforced state security funding for Jewish schools.
Sheriff Cordero Stutz also spoke at the event and reiterated her support for the safe ty of the Jewish community. “Jews should never feel targeted,” she said. About the an tisemitic campus protests, she believes it never should have happened to begin with. “You’ve got to nip such behavior in the bud,” she said.
After his talk, Donalds visited some class rooms and engaged with the students.
The visit was coordinated by Rabbi Moshe Kaploun, Avi Greenbaum, and Barbara Fein gold.
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Remains of Sgt. Zvi Feldman, Missing Since 1982, Recovered in Daring Mossad-IDF Operation
American Hostage Iden Alexander Comes Home
In a poignant resolution to one of Israel’s most enduring MIA cas es, the body of Sergeant First Class Zvi “Zvika” Feldman, missing since the 1982 First Lebanon War, has been recovered and returned to Is rael. Prime Minister Benjamin Ne tanyahu announced the successful culmination of a complex and per ilous covert operation conducted jointly by the Mossad intelligence agency and the Israel Defense Forces (IDF).
Sgt. First Class Feldman, a tank commander, vanished during the fierce Battle of Sultan Yacoub in Lebanon’s Bekaa Valley nearly 43 years ago. He was one of three soldiers who went missing in the same engagement, alongside Sgt. First Class Yehuda Katz and Sgt. First Class Zachary Baumel. Bau mel’s remains were successfully re covered and brought home in 2019, a development that undoubtedly intensified efforts to locate Feld man and Katz.
The Battle of Sultan Yacoub, fought between the IDF and the Syrian army, was a brutal and costly confrontation. It claimed the lives of 21 Israeli servicemen and left more than 30 wounded, etching itself into Israeli military history as a symbol of both valor and painful loss. For the families of Feldman, Katz, and Baumel, the battle marked the beginning of de cades of agonizing uncertainty.
“For decades, Zvika was miss ing, and the efforts to locate him, along with the other missing sol diers from that same battle, never ceased for a moment,” Prime Min
ister Netanyahu stated, underscor ing the nation’s unwavering com mitment. He further vowed that Israel would not rest until Yehuda Katz is also returned home.
The mission to retrieve Feld man’s remains was a testament to persistence and ingenuity, unfold ing deep within Syrian territory under a shroud of secrecy. Details emerging paint a picture of an audacious five month operation, fraught with risk and requiring meticulous planning and execu tion.
The Heart of the Operation: A Ruse Deep in Enemy Territory
According to reports, the Mos sad orchestrated an elaborate ruse, deploying a squad of non Israeli agents to a specific cemetery lo cated dozens of kilometers from the Israeli border. This location, deep inside Syria, was under the watchful eye of local guards and, metaphorically, “under the nose
of former Syrian President Assad,” highlighting the extreme danger involved.
Building on intelligence and experience gained from the 2019 recovery of Zachary Baumel, the focus shifted to pinpointing Feld man’s and Katz’s possible resting places. The Mossad team, operat ing under heavy risk, had to em ploy sensitive maneuvers to gain and maintain access to the target ed cemetery. Initial attempts were met with hesitation for a follow up, but a carefully crafted deception eventually secured their continued presence at the site.
The agents were prohibited from overt digging, necessitating an incredibly slow and painstak ing process. For months, they ad vanced “centimeter by centimeter” underground, all while cultivating cordial relations with the cemetery staff to avoid arousing suspicion. An official involved in the oper
ation recounted, “They brought back initial findings, and after a DNA test, we realized we were in the right place.”
The emotional and operation al breakthrough came with the discovery of what appeared to be Feldman’s military overalls. “I saw his jumpsuit and knew, even before the DNA test, this was the place,” shared an official. “A note was sent to the Mossad chief: ‘We’ve found the uniform.’ It was deeply mov ing.” This tangible link to the fallen soldier, after so many years, pro vided the definitive confirmation the team had desperately sought.
A Joint Effort and a National Commitment
Officials emphasized the critical synergy between the Mossad and the IDF throughout the operation. “Every move was done shoulder to shoulder with the IDF. Without their support, the Mossad could not have completed this mission,” a senior official familiar with the operation stated. This collabora
tion spanned intelligence sharing, operational planning, and crucial logistical support, particularly in enabling safe border crossings for the teams involved.
The recovery of Sgt. First Class Feldman is more than just the closing of a single MIA case; it is a powerful reaffirmation of Israel’s deeply ingrained ethos of never abandoning its soldiers, whether living or deceased. “This opera tion proves that even 43 years af ter a soldier falls, Israel does not abandon the mission,” the official remarked.
This unwavering resolve extends to other unresolved cases. “It’s not just about Sultan Yacoub. We’re still working on other open cases like Eli Cohen, Ron Arad, Eliza beth Tsurkov in Iraq, and others. This gives the families perspec tive—we don’t forget anyone,” the official added, referencing other high profile individuals missing or captured.
The Mossad itself views such
missions as integral to its core val ues. “This is a mission rooted in the core values of the Mossad,” anoth er official explained. “It also sends a message to the families of fallen soldiers and missing persons—es pecially those still held in Gaza— that Israel remains committed to bringing everyone home, whether living or dead, regardless of how much time has passed.”
The news of Feldman’s recovery brings a measure of closure to his family after an unimaginable pe riod of waiting and wondering. It also resonates deeply with the Is raeli public, for whom the fate of MIAs and captives is a collective national concern. The dedication, resourcefulness, and courage dis played by the Mossad and IDF per sonnel involved serve as a somber reminder of the lengths to which Israel will go to honor its commit ment to those who serve.
While the return of Zvi Feldman’s remains closes one painful chap ter, the mission continues for Ye
huda Katz and others. The success in Syria, however, offers a beacon of hope and a powerful testament to a nation’s enduring promise to its fallen heroes.
“Home Sweet Home”: Idan Alexander Reunited with Family After 584 Days in Gaza Captivity
After 584 harrowing days in Hamas captivity, 21 year old American Israeli soldier Idan Al exander is finally home.
His release, which took place on Monday in southern Gaza, marked the end of a nearly 19 month or deal that began in silence and ended with a quiet but powerful message. Sitting with a bottle of beer and sunglasses, Idan posted his first words of freedom: “Home sweet home.”
Held deep within the Gaza Strip, Alexander endured brutal condi tions. According to his family, he spoke of hunger, thirst, unsanitary surroundings, and constant fear. Above him, war raged. Explosions echoed, buildings collapsed, and rockets screamed across the sky. “Every moment could have been the last,” said his mother, Yael Al exander, speaking to the press on Tuesday evening.
“The most terrible sound of all was the sounds of the war going on above their heads,” she said. “Deaf ening explosions, rocket whistles, and the earth shaking.”
For nearly two years, the Alex ander family lived in limbo, caught between flickers of hope and the looming fear that they might never see their son again.
Yael described the emotional moment of reunion in deeply per sonal terms. “The moment I first
hugged my Idan after 584 days was the moment when time stopped,” she said. “My pulse beat again with his. My breathing returned when I felt him in my arms. My fami ly was whole again—but the pain also came.”
Idan’s release came through the U.S. led negotiations with Hamas, with no direct Israeli involvement reported in the final stages. For mer U.S. President Donald Trump, along with his envoys Steve Wit koff and Adam Buehler, played key roles in the process. The Red Cross facilitated the handover in Khan Younis, after which Israeli special forces escorted Alexander back to Israeli territory for a medical check and emotional reunion with his family.
Both Israeli Prime Minister Ben jamin Netanyahu and President Trump acknowledged the release, with Netanyahu calling it “a very moving moment” and attributing
it to a combination of military pressure and American diplomatic efforts.
In her remarks, Yael Alexander thanked Trump and his team, but also directed a heartfelt appeal to Israel’s leadership, particularly as renewed hostage talks resume in Doha.
“In Israel, the heart of the people is strong, sharp and clear,” she said. “The vast majority of the public, from all corners of society, believes that the return of the abductees is a supreme Jewish moral and nation al duty. This is not an issue of right and left, nor of religion and nation ality, but of the human heart.”
Her message resonated as a re minder that while Idan is home, others remain in captivity, their families still caught in the same unbearable waiting.
Idan Alexander’s release brings a rare moment of relief in a region gripped by prolonged conflict. It highlights the power of diploma cy, the weight of international in volvement, and the ongoing duty governments bear toward their cit izens in distress.
For the Alexanders, life begins again. For the rest of the world, his story serves as both a testament to survival—and a call to bring the remaining captives home.
Lag BaOmer is a festive day on the Jewish calendar, celebrating the anniversary of the passing of the great sage and mystic Rabbi Shimon bar Yochai. Also known as the Rashbi (an acronym for his name), he was the author of the Zohar, a foundational work of the Kabbalah which is the basis for Chassidus. He requested that the day of his passing be celebrated, and not mourned.
It also commemorates another event. In the weeks between Pass over and Shavuot, a plague raged amongst the disciples of the great sage Rabbi Akiva and on Lag BaO mer the dying ceased. The Talmud tells us that the plague affected the students of Rabbi Akiva “be cause they did not act respect fully towards each other.” Thus, Lag BaOmer carries the theme of the imperative to love and re spect one’s fellow (ahavat yisra el). Lag BaOmer teaches us that while working to help improve our fellow man, we must never allow these efforts to compromise our love and respect for him.
It is traditional to light bonfires on Lag BaOmer eve, commem orating the immense light that Rabbi Shimon bar Yochai intro duced into the world via his mys tical teachings.
Children customarily go out into the fields and play with imitation bows and arrows. This commemo rates the midrashic tradition that no rainbow was seen during Rabbi Shimon’s lifetime.
Rainbows first appeared after Noah’s flood, when G‑d prom
Weapons of Love
by Rabbi Moishe Kievman, Chabad Chayil
ised to never again devastate the world. When the world is deserv ing of punishment, G‑d sends a rainbow instead. Rabbi Shimon’s merit protected the world, render ing the rainbow superfluous.
But there’s a much deeper meaning behind the bow and ar row game, with a lesson not just for Lag BaOmer, but something we can apply every day of the year.
The first weapons devised by man were designed for hand to hand combat. But a person’s ene my or prey is not always an arm’s length away, or even within sight. Soon the warrior and hunter felt the need for a weapon that could reach a target a great distance away, or which lies invisible and protected behind barriers of every sort.
With a bow and arrow, the ten sion in an arched bough of wood is exploited to propel a missile for great distances and slash through barriers. The inventor of this de vice first had to grasp the para dox that the deadly arrow must be pulled back toward one’s own heart in order to strike the heart of the opponent, and that the more it is drawn toward oneself, the more distant an adversary it can reach.
Chassidus teaches us that the same rules that apply to tools of destruction, apply to tools of construction the tools we use to help build each other. And this is the deeper theme and lesson of Lag BaOmer: In order to reach a friend or relative who is otherwise unreachable, we have to first dig deep within our own heart. The
deeper place from within our heart this love comes from, the deeper it will penetrate in our loved ones heart. The more we work on our own character, the more our chil dren will work on theirs.
The Rebbe writes in Hayom Yom “If you rebuke your broth er and he does not listen, then it is you who is to blame. Because words that come from the heart, enter the heart”. If you haven’t penetrated their heart, dig deeper within your own heart.
This year, Lag BaOmer is Thurs day Night Friday, May 15 16, 5785 / 2025.
I encourage you to reach out to your local Chabad or synagogue and find out what they’re doing to celebrate this special day. You are of course welcome to join me at our annual bonfire, where you can enjoy a BBQ, music, sign along kumzitz and plenty of fun. We will do it behind the construc tion site of the new Chabad Chayil Education Center in West Aventu ra. There’s no charge to RSVP at ChabadChayil.org/Events. For the complete history and more les sons you can learn from this fun and Kabbalistic holiday visit www. ChabadChayil.org/LagBaomer.
About the author:
Rabbi Kievman together with his wife are the ambassadors of The Rebbe to Highland Lakes, FL. They are the founders of Gan Chabad Preschool, your local CTeen & CKids chapters, CHAP - an afterschool program for Jewish children in Public Schools and direct Chabad Chayil. He’s the rabbi at The Family Shul and can be reached at (305) 770-1919 or rabbi@ChabadChayil.org. You can also support the community with your partnership at ChabadChayil.org/Partner.
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Operation Inspiration: Moment of Truth
The expression, “moment of truth,” has multiple meanings. Most commonly, when something is put to the test, it’s a moment of truth. It identifies if the preparation and work put in ahead of time achieved their goal. For example, there was a fellow in the 1930’s who was demon strating the strength of some bullet proof glass, and he did so by shoot ing at it – while his wife held it in front of her face! The glass didn’t shatter and it did stop the bullets, but what a way to test it!
If you created an ad selling some thing, the moment of truth would come when people see it and react. Did it achieve what it was intended to? Did the ad make people want to buy the product? As much as your research and planning showed how the ad would perform, the real mo ment of truth is when you put it into action.
Sometimes the moment of truth is when reality strikes you, hard. For example, when a driver is speed ing down the road, music blaring, laughing with his friends, it’s a real joyride. But when he hears the si rens and sees the flashing lights of a police car in his rearview mirror, everything comes to a halt, and he knows his choice was not a good one. He didn’t think anyone would care, or that he would get caught, but now he realizes his mistake. The truth is clear; he chose wrong.
In fact, the Vilna Gaon tells us of the most powerful moment of truth of all. He explains Gehinnom, purgatory, to be the moment when a person dies, and all his mistakes and lost opportunities become abundantly clear. The burning re gret he has in that moment, and the knowledge that the repercussions
By Rabbi Jonathan Gewirtz
are eternal, is the pain we should all be afraid of, and it’s our doing, not anyone else’s.
But how do you determine whether your plan is going to work as you’re making it? Well, if it’s an ad, you do focus groups and show it to people to gauge their reactions before final publication. If it’s bul letproof glass, you stand it against a stone wall or hang it in a shooting range, so nobody gets hurt.
In life, we have opportunities to test our theories, and to determine whether we’re on the right track. To illustrate this, I’d like to share one of my personal experiences. I was vis iting another city, and in their shul, they have a mechitza with one way glass at the top. The way it works is that the glass is coated with a thin, reflective layer, effectively creating a “half silvered” surface, so it re flects half the light that strikes it, while allowing the other half to pass through. The effect of one way glass is dependent on the lighting condi tions on either side of the glass.
So, I glanced at the mechitza to my left, and saw the reflection of myself and the people standing be yond me. However, I also saw a glass door with a car parked outside. Turning to my right, I saw the peo ple I’d seen in the reflection, but as I scanned the wall, there was no glass door, and no car visible outside. I
was completely puzzled. Then it hit me.
The glass door with the car out side was THROUGH the mechitza. The brightness of the doorway over powered the half silvered mirror so instead of seeing behind me, I saw what was in front of me, on the oth er side of the mechitza. (It was a weekday Shacharis and no women were present, so don’t get nervous.)
When that happened, though, I realized that though in this world we can’t see what’s on the other side, meaning the Olam HaEmes, some times we get a glimpse of it, when something especially bright and wonderful occurs. There are times when events unfold in such a way that we can almost see Hashem’s involvement in our lives, or when the truth of what the right thing is comes through so clearly that we’re experiencing a literal “moment of truth.”
As we live our lives, we need to watch for these moments because they are very precious. When you get that flash of clarity, don’t let it get away. Use it to light your path in the days ahead. If you need to adjust your course, those moments of truth will be the guide you were hoping for.
If you take advantage of them as best you can, then perhaps when the moment of truth, as the Vilna Gaon explained it, comes, you will be glad to see that you made the right choices after all, and you will enjoy those benefits forever.
team competed in the Yeshiva League tournament, showcasing their skills as attorneys and witnesses in a realistic courtroom setting. Their hard work paid off with an impressive 4th place finish.
Mr. Ferriss always has time to clarify the math.
Yeshiva Shachris –Starting the Day in the Best Way
Everyone gets involved in our visits to JEMS, including Rabbi Goldenberg.
YoM joined schools around the country in administering standardized testing. Our talmidim actually enjoy class time!
Kobi & Bracha Berkson Young Leasdership Awardees
Dror Ben-Aharon Community Service Awardee
Marc & Lori Ben Ezra Guests of Honor
Rabbi Weinstock and Jewish Federation of Broward County
Gary & Sandra Bloom L’Dor V’Dor Awardees and family
Lauren Stamm and Binyamina Zahavi Eishet Chayil Awardees
Mock Trial
HEBREW ACADEMY
BUSINESS HALACHA INITIATIVE
SOUTH FLORIDA JEWISH NETWORK EVENT
Honoring Heroes: Belev Echad Visits Hebrew Academy and had the meaningful opportunity to meet wounded IDF soldiers. The soldiers spent the morning connecting with high school students, followed by a beautiful assembly where students heard a soldier’s powerful story of resilience.
South Florida Jewish Network event
Hebrew Academy Miami Kindergarten Explores Mitzvot Through Garden Adventures and Bingo in the Grow Torah Garden!
Inspiring The Future Of Our Day Schools And Yeshivot: Just Imagine….
As we know, “what if” scenarios often stimulate our thinking and at times challenges the status quo with exciting and inspiring oppor tunities. In fact, there are a wide array scenario thinking and plan ning research which have resulted in helping us stretch our creativi ty and imagination with unlimit ed possibilities.
Several months ago, I had an amazing conversation with sev eral communal leaders at a Jew ish education and philanthropy Think Tank.
During the course of the con versation, one of the Think Tank participants posited a question which at first blush sounded rel atively simple. But, within very short order, we all began to un derstand and appreciate the com plexity of the question which was ”assuming that the Jewish day school and yeshiva affordability crisis is resolved, and that finan cial sustainability is no longer a significant challenge, what would these institutions look like today and into the future?”
As one might imagine, this “what if” question triggered a host of creative responses from the group. Some of the respons es were extremely creative, for ward thinking and innovative; others we expected, somewhat ob vious and anticipated.
Following these sessions, and upon returning home, I contin ued to reflect, dream and imagine what our Jewish day schools and
by Dr. Chaim Y. Botwinick
yeshivot can in fact become in the future if the right conditions where to exist.
This process was very much in line with my continued per sonal and professional quest and interest in the future of our day schools/yeshivot as reflected in my past articles, blogs, presenta tions and podcasts. It also provid ed me with a broader perspective regarding the impact and effec tiveness of these institutions on student learning and instruction.
As we know, many transforma tive advances, since the dawn of the industrial revolution, were in spired by dreams, aspirations and vision. Many of these advances – whether they were in the areas of science, technology, education or commerce – all emerged and evolved as a result of society’s ability to stretch its creativity and imagination and to think boldly and creatively about “what could be” as opposed to “what is”.
One of the most complex chal lenges currently facing the Jewish day school and yeshiva communi ty relates to the “affordability or financial “sustainability” crisis.
For the purposes of this article, I would like to take this challenge off the table and begin with a starting point as follows: imagine if day school and yeshiva afford ability and sustainability where no longer a challenge facing our day school community, thus en abling schools to focus all of their resources and energy exclusively
on student recruitment, reten tion, quality, impact and academ ic achievement, what would our Jewish day schools look like in the future?
For starters, it would be totally unimaginable to think about the future of our Jewish day schools in the absence of a fully integrat ed AI technologically driven envi ronment.
To this end, one can envision an institution that is transformed through a high tech education al incubator for creative and in novative teaching and inspired learning – a place where digital technology is no longer a dream or luxury, but rather a “new nor mal” for high level and effective student engagement and learning …..as well as for real time teacher growth and development; a place where integrated and blended learning opportunities inspire students to utilize state of the art technology in the sciences the arts, Judaic studies, the human ities; and advanced placement courses as well as “virtual on line homework and chavruta cen ters” which are lead and staffed by teachers, rabbeim and guest scholars on a rotating basis.
Beyond these rudimentary 21st century teaching and learning constructs, just imagine Jewish day schools and yeshivot which possess the necessary resources – human and capital to no lon ger only “aspire” to be schools of excellence (as stated in many a
COMMUNITY NEWS
school Mission and Vision State ment), but to actually become and evolve into living, breathing and functioning organic education al environments and ecosystems that exhibit and demonstrate best/model practice in academic, social and experiential learning and teaching; and which have the academic metrics to prove it.
Just imagine a 21st Jewish day school and yeshiva whose mission and value proposition promotes, supports and offers:
Ongoing mentorship and coaching support for all faculty, heads of school and trustees;
Student teaching laboratories and clinics developed and offered in collaborative partnership with colleges and universities in the states and in Israel;
Curriculum mapping which continuously informs, supports and assesses curricular goals;
Individualized professional de velopment portfolios for all teach ers and faculty;
Teacher and faculty (limudei kodesh and chol) compensation packages which are competitive and commensurate with other professions requiring licensure and certification;
Parent engagement and feed back programs whereby parents are continuously informed about the academic progress of their child;
Web based AI driven home work stations and tutorials for students requiring remediation;
Career ladder growth opportu nities for all promising teachers, rabbeim and faculty;
Advanced placement (AP) in Judaic and secular studies and a science, technology, engineering
and math track for all qualified students;
Inspiring and stimulating class es, shiurim and lectures aired in real time from Israel;
Instructional feedback and teaching performance norms and standards for all teachers and fac ulty;
Meaningful and effective volun teer engagement opportunities for all parents and trustees;
Mandatory board and trustee training, onboarding and develop ment programs;
Mandatory community service engagement, chesed and Jewish civics engagement programs;
Mandatory leadership suc cession planning for all heads of school, principals and school board chairs/presidents;
Joint educational; partnerships and programs with other local ed ucational and Jewish communal institutions;
Generous merit and need based scholarship assistance for all qualified parents and families as well as comprehensive medical insurance and pension programs for all full time career teachers and rabbeim; and
Teacher and student Israel ex change programs.
Although these programs and opportunities appear to be some what ambitious in their totality, many do in fact offer and enjoy many of them. However, for the majority of our schools, these op portunities hardly ever come to fruition due in part to fiscal con straints and internal exigencies exacerbated by a lack of vision.
One can therefore argue that although an inspiring vision can be offered and presented, quite of ten they are quashed due to a lack
of available resources. This sad and daunting reality may result in communal and institutional frustration, disappointment and apathy; and, an eventual erosion of board, faculty and professional leadership inspiration or confi dence. It may also result in poor and myopic planning leading to institutional paralysis.
Although we so often hear that “an inspiring vision is only as good as its implantation” sometimes an exciting and inspiring vision can in fact ignite, motivate, encourage and launch exciting new realities.
This stark reality challenges all of us – lay and professional lead ership to think and dream be yond the limitations and bound aries of current fiscal reality. I underscore the word current in an effort to invoke and even provoke us to think about a shift in our ed ucational thinking, planning, and leadership.
Granted – it’s truly difficult to think and dream about tomorrow when we are stuck or mired down in the day to day operational re alities of leading high performing Jewish day schools and yeshivot.
“Changing the tires on a mov ing bus” may be a normative real ity for many or an all to often used catch phrase. But, it should never limit our individual or collect ca pacity, willingness or ability to stimulate, encourage and inspire an educational future which our students and their families will enjoy, embrace and rightly de serve. In fact, many day schools and yeshiva are becoming more are vision driven, strategic and forward thinking in their mission and value proposition. We must think big, smart and bold and not get sidetracked by distractions or
insurmountable challenges.
It will always be somewhat challenging and even frustrating to imagine and to dream about the fu ture….let alone actually create high performing day schools yeshivot of excellence against a backdrop of fiscal shortfalls and exigencies.
But, maybe, just maybe, if we create an inspir ing communal environment which imagines and envisions removing obstacles and barriers from the equation, than hopefully we will experience a brighter future.
At the end of the day, it’s not about burrowing our heads in the sand for fear of taking risks or by minimizing fiscal realities……but rather to quote Dr. Stephen Covey, it’s about consistently keeping the end in mind. And if the end is indeed about high quality education, positive impact and educational excellence, then it’s our individual and collective re sponsibility to create those conditions conducive to creating that reality.
So, when we ask the vexing question what our Jewish day schools would look like in the future, if affordability was no longer and an issue, I answered with a modest and humble response. ….it is up to us.
The reality of current day school costs and afford ability are indeed dauning and palpable ant best; and they will impact our schools for the immediate and foreseeable future.
The unswerving challenge for day school and ye shiva leadership however must be to transcend this hurdle by ensuring that we don’t miss a golden op portunity and to inspire, dream, and transform the Jewish lives of our children and future generations.
Innovative, creative and forward thinking fund raising and advancement efforts must always move forward full speed, full stop. Some schools will obviously succeed at greater speeds than others. However, while pursuing these exciting challenges and avenues, let us not get sidetracked, distracted, diverted or discouraged from creating an inviting, exciting and inspiring future for our schools and the community which they serve.
Visioning, dreaming and imagining are always powerful drivers for effective education and suc cessful philanthropy.
But always keep in mind – if you wish it, it is no dream.
Just imagine….
YOUR KIDS FROM PUBLIC SCHOOL TO A JEWISH SCHOOL
Submit Request / Application at wwwYeshivaTuitionOrg.godaddysites.com
OR of such generosity from a stranger but you must be a messenger from HaShem! HaShem should bless you and all your loved ones tenfold for I just wanted to thank you really & truly from the bottom of my heart for helping us out like this. I have never been the recipient your kindness.
Five beautiful neshamas out of public school. You were the driving force from the beginning, starting with my daughter and the momentum kept going. From the families in Boynton Beach
Thank you,
First-Ever Nefesh B’Nefesh Shuk Olim Debuts in Tel-Aviv at
Azrieli Center
Olim-owned businesses took center stage in the heart of Tel Aviv, offering 1500 participants the opportunity to support local vendors
Nefesh B’Nefesh, which works in cooperation with Israel’s Min istry of Aliyah and Integration, the Jewish Agency for Israel, Keren Kayemeth LeIsrael and Jewish National Fund USA, part nered with Azrieli Tel Aviv and the Tel Aviv Municipality, to host over 50 Olim run businesses for the first ever, Shuk Olim in Tel Aviv. Following the success of its Jerusalem events, the Tel Aviv debut expanded the initiative to a new audience, inviting locals, tourists, and fellow Olim to con nect through commerce, culture, and community.
The open market event fea tured dozens of small businesses, all founded by Olim from around the world, each one representing the unique journey of newcom ers from countries including the United States, France, Australia, the UK, Argentina, and others. The marketplace reflected the mosaic of global Jewish creativity converging in Israel, highlighting Olim living in Tel Aviv and sur rounding cities, as well as Olim living in Northern Israel, which has been heavily impacted by the Iron Swords war.
Among them was Elle Gennis, an Olah from Berkley, California and the founder of “oosh,” a one stop shop for Israeli made prod
ucts. Gennis created “oosh” after the tragedies of October 7th, with the mission of piecing back to gether the community and help ing Israeli small businesses.
“Watching these individuals not only build their lives in Is rael but also establish thriving businesses is a powerful testa ment to the vitality and future of our country,” said Tony Gelbart, Co Founder and Chairman of Nefesh B’Nefesh. “Shuk Olim is more than just a marketplace, it is a celebration of the creativity, resilience, and entrepreneurial spirit of our local Olim commu nity, as they proudly share their products with the broader Israeli public.”
“We are proud to be partners
in such a meaningful event that connects cultures, communities, and life stories,” stated Chen Ze havian, CEO of the Azrieli Tel Aviv Mall. “Shuk Olim, which was held on our rooftop, wasn’t just a celebration of flavors and art – it was also a celebration of entre preneurship, integration, and Israeli creativity at its best. This was a wonderful opportunity for the general public to be exposed to new worlds and to support new immigrants who have turned their personal stories into thriv ing Israeli businesses.”
An additional vendor at Shuk Olim was Eli Mandelbaum, an Oleh from Teaneck, NJ who founded, “Eli’s Homemade Schnitzel.” Since the beginning of
Shuk Olim TLV May 2025PHOTO CREDIT Courtesy of Asher Stein
Iron Swords, they have provided hundreds of sol diers with fresh schnitzel for free, gathering dona tions through a social media campaign using the hashtag, “#schnitzeling4chayalim.”
From artisanal foods and handcrafted jewelry to fashion, art, and wellness products, Shuk Olim in Tel Aviv offered visitors the chance to experience the diverse talents and cultural backgrounds that enrich Israeli society, by Olim who have made Isra el their home.
The full list of vendors included: Art & Ketubot by Rena, Art.bydiama, Arts by Y, Ateliê Lamed, Avraham Vofsi Fine Art, Barry’s Boys, Birkat Glass, Bows by Naomi, Carly’s Dreamcatchers and Work shops, Chevska, Chipp’d Gems Jewelry, Braceface Design, Coffee Culture Israel, Color Me Israel, Con todos mis colores, Taryn Treisman’s custom pop art, Didi Designs Studio, Eleanor von Weisl, Eli’s Home made Schnitzel, Emma Ceramics & More, FionaCol lins art, Gabby’s Goodies, Gush Etzion Brewstillery, Happily Charmed, Kerren Orli, Legends Distillery, Livne Lavan Enterprises Ltd., Mar Jarz, Mimi_ce ramics, My Little Shtetl, Navon Naturals, Neshika, Nuravida, oosh., Pink sink art, PinPerfect, Populari Kettlecorn, Promise State, Sarah Packer Designs, sk by shoshana Kleiman, Stitched by Nili, Strings Artisan Jewelry, Sunflower Studio, Sweet by Nature, Tabbytlvceramics, Cacao Hagalil, Talia C. Glass Art, The Line 9, The Pickle Jar, Tides Accessorie
About Nefesh B’Nefesh (www.nbn.org.il)
Founded in 2002, Nefesh B’Nefesh is dedicated to addressing the evolving national needs of the State of Israel through four key pillars: Aliyah, National Service, National Development, and Zionist Education. Each of these pillars is strengthened by expanded services designed to benefit the broader community. In partnership with Israel’s Ministry of Aliyah and Integration, The Jewish Agency for Israel, Keren Kayemeth LeIsrael, and JNF-USA, Nefesh B’Nefesh’s comprehensive support and social services have successfully empowered over 85,000 North American Olim to integrate into Israeli society, achieving an impressive 90% retention rate. This ensures their long-term commitment to building meaningful lives in Israel and contributing to the nation’s growth.
C alm mornings by the pool or high - energ y days on the water.
A weekend escape with friends or quiet time just for you .
Luxur y amenities and stunning views in ever y direc tion .
At The Altair, ever y path leads to your per fec t getaway.
Better Balance, Better Life: 4 Exercises to Stay Steady and Confident
Balance is one of the most im portant — and overlooked — foundations of healthy movement. It allows us to walk confidently, play the sports we love, travel safe ly, and enjoy daily activities with out hesitation. Yet as we age, small changes in strength, flexibility, and coordination can slowly chip away at our stability. Even a minor loss of balance can lead to falls, inju ries, and a loss of independence.
The good news? Balance is a skill that can be strengthened at any age. With the right exercises and guidance, you can improve your stability, enhance confidence, and stay active longer. At Flori da Movement Therapy Centers, we specialize in helping adults — whether managing Parkinson’s, re covering from orthopedic surgery, or proactively aging — reclaim their balance through one on one therapy and customized wellness programs.
Here are four simple exercises to help get you started.
1. Heel-to-Toe Walk (Tandem Walk)
This classic exercise strength ens the muscles that stabilize your ankles and improves coordination and gait.
How to do it: Stand tall and place one foot directly in front of the other, so the heel of your front foot touches the toes of your back foot. Slowly walk forward along an imaginary straight line for 10–20 steps. Keep your eyes forward and arms out slightly for balance. Re peat 2–3 times.
Pro tip: Practice this along a
hallway counter or wall for safety.
2. Single-Leg Stand
Targeting your core, hips, and ankles, this move builds strength and control used every time you step, turn, or climb stairs.
How to do it: Stand near a coun tertop or sturdy chair. Shift your weight onto one leg and lift the other foot a few inches off the floor. Hold for 10–30 seconds. Switch sides and repeat 2–3 times on each leg.
Pro tip: As you improve, try closing your eyes for added chal lenge (only if safe).
3. Side-to-Side Weight Shifts
This mimics real life shifts — like reaching for something or stepping sideways — making it functional and effective.
How to do it: Stand with feet hip width apart. Slowly shift your weight to the right, lifting your left foot slightly off the ground. Return to center and repeat to the left. Do 10–15 repetitions per side.
4. Seated Marches
Perfect for gently improving hip strength, posture, and coordina
tion — especially for beginners or those with limited mobility. How to do it: Sit tall in a stur dy chair. Lift one knee toward your chest, lower it, and alternate legs in a marching motion for 30–60 seconds. Repeat 2–3 times.
Why It’s Worth the Effort
Improving balance not only prevents falls but also boosts con fidence in everything from tennis matches to long beach walks. For those managing neurological con ditions or recovering from sur gery, targeted therapy makes even greater impact.
At Florida Movement Therapy Centers, our one on one therapy sessions address balance, strength, and coordination — always custom ized to your goals and abilities. Plus, beginning June 1, our Rock Steady Boxing program will offer dynamic workouts designed to sharpen bal ance and strength for individuals with Parkinson’s disease.
Curious about your balance? Contact Florida Movement Therapy Centers for an evaluation and learn how we can help you stay steady and strong.
Hebrew Academy of Miami, a growing Modern Orthodox school in sunny Miami Beach, is seeking applicants to join our team of dedicated professionals who believe in the pursuit of excellence and attention to the needs of each individual studentin a caring environment permeated with Torah values:
Elementary
Elementary School Limudei Kodesh
Elementary School General Studies
Elementary Assistant Teachers
Art Teacher
Upper School (Grades 6 -12)
Upper School Hebrew Language
Upper School Judaic Studies Teacher
Middle School Guidance Counselor
High School Science
Early Childhood
Early Childhood Lead Teachers and Assistants
The Hidden Dangers of Social Media and Screen Time for Kids
By Dr. Sarah Rosanel, MD FACC, Concierge Physician in Miami Florida - Internal Medicine Specialist/ Family Medicine and Cardiologist
As a cardiolo gist and a mother of three, I’ve spent years guiding fami lies through physical health challenges. But increasingly, what worries me most isn’t just what’s happening in their bodies—it’s what’s happening on their screens.
In today’s digital age, children and teens are growing up in an online world that’s far more perva sive than anything we faced grow ing up. Social media platforms are designed to capture attention, and they’re astonishingly good at it. What begins as innocent scrolling can quickly spiral into addictive behavior, poor sleep, declining mental health, and even physical symptoms that mimic chronic ill ness.
Let me share a story about one of my patients—we’ll call her Anna.
Anna is 15 years old, bright, tal ented, and seemingly healthy. She came to my office with vague com plaints: chest tightness, fatigue, headaches, and lightheadedness. Her pediatrician had ruled out anything serious, but the symp toms persisted, and her mother— frustrated and worried—brought her to me for further evaluation.
After a thorough workup, it became clear: Anna’s heart was strong, her labs were normal, and her body was healthy. What wasn’t healthy was her screen time—up wards of 8 to 10 hours a day, mostly spent on TikTok and Instagram. She admitted to doom scrolling late into the night, skipping meals, and comparing herself relentlessly
to filtered images and carefully cu rated posts.
Anna’s anxiety was sky high, her sleep disrupted, and her self worth eroded by a constant stream of unrealistic standards and digi tal noise. Her body was sounding the alarm for what her mind could barely articulate: she was drown ing in screen time.
This story is not unique.
As a physician, I see more and more teens like Anna—presenting with symptoms that aren’t rooted in disease, but in disconnection: from sleep, from movement, from real relationships, and from their own sense of identity. Research backs this up: high levels of screen time are associated with increased rates of depression, anxiety, and sleep disorders in adolescents. The link between social media and poor mental health is no longer speculation—it’s science.
So what can we do?
1. Set Boundaries Early.
Children need limits. Create screen free zones at home—like bedrooms and dinner tables. Lim it recreational screen time to no more than 1–2 hours per day.
2. Model Healthy Behavior. Kids emulate what they see. If we’re always on our phones, they will be too. Make time for real con versation and offline activities.
3. Talk About It.
Discuss the curated nature of so cial media and help your children understand that what they see on line isn’t real life. Encourage criti cal thinking and emotional aware ness.
4. Watch for Warning Signs.
Sudden changes in sleep, appe tite, mood, or academic perfor mance can signal something deep er. Don’t dismiss it—ask questions and seek help if needed.
5. Reclaim Time.
Encourage sports, arts, reading, and outdoor play. These aren’t lux uries—they are essential to physi cal and mental well being.
Anna is now doing better. With support, reduced screen time, and weekly appointments with me as her doctor, she’s reconnecting with friends, getting back into sports, and rediscovering life offline.
Let her story be a wake up call. Our kids don’t just need protection from illness—they need protection from an attention economy that profits off their time, their data, and too often, their mental health.
Let’s raise kids who are not just tech savvy, but self aware, resil ient, and grounded in the real world.
Dr. Sarah Rosanel, MD FACC Cardiologist | Mother | Advocate for Patient’s Health
Dr. Sarah Rosanel is a dedicated 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) 467-4368 |Miami, Florida | email: info@ DrRosanel.com
KID’S ZONE KID’S ZONE
RIDDLES BRAIN TEASERS &
Try these challenging riddles!
1. I’m not alive, but I breathe and roar, Without me, your car won’t move or soar.
What am I?
2. I’m round and black, but not a hat, I spin real fast—imagine that!
What am I?
3. I’m made of glass, but I don’t break, I shield your face for safety’s sake.
What am I?
4. I shine at night and during fog, I help you see through mist and smog.
What am I?
5. I’m metal teeth in a straight line, Without me, parking would be a climb.
What am I?
6. I’m in the front, but I look behind, I help you see what’s not in mind. What am I?
7. I live behind the vents you see, I twist the air with mystery. I turn the heat to winter breeze, Or chase the cold with quiet ease. What am I?
8. I’m not a nose, but I give a sniff, I puff out gas if there’s a whiff. What am I?
9. I’m not a compass, but I help you steer, Hold me tight and turn with cheer. What am I?
10. I’m full of numbers, dials, and light, I tell your speed and fuel—just right. What am I?
KID’S ZONE KID’S ZONE
KID’S ZONE KID’S ZONE
THANK YOU TO EVERYONE WHO JOINED!
6 year old
4 years old
Boca
4 years old
7 years old
years old
Sarita Rosenberg
anonymous, North Miami Beach
Leah Heinemann Boca Raton 7
Panina Attia
Atara Heinemann
Raton
Yirmi Attia
KID’S ZONE KID’S ZONE
FACTS ABOUT COMPUTERS DID YOU KNOW THAT...
1. The first computer was as big as a room! It was called ENIAC and it weighed more than 27 tons—about the same as four elephants!
2. Your keyboard has 104 keys!
Every time you type, you’re using a tiny part of a big invention that helps you talk to your computer.
3. Computers only understand two numbers: 0 and 1.
Everything you see— pictures, games, even music—is made from just these two numbers in computer code!
4. The word “computer” used to mean a person. Before machines, a “computer” was someone who did math by hand!
5. The first computer mouse was made of wood. It was invented in the 1960s and looked nothing like today’s sleek designs.
6. Supercomputers are super fast! They can solve more than a billion billion math problems every second. Scientists use them to study space, weather, and even find cures for diseases.
7. There are more computers than people in the U.S.!
From laptops and tablets to servers and smart fridges, computers are everywhere.
8. The @ symbol was chosen for email in 1971.
A computer engineer picked it because it wasn’t used much—and now it’s in every email address!
KID’S ZONE KID’S ZONE
Email your artwork to editor@tsfcommunityvoice.com
Make sure to include your name, age and city. Entries must be received by May 26.
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
-Printed Template (on Cardstock) -Markers -13” Metal Wire -Stackable Magnets -Double Sided Tape -AA battery -Scissors -Tape
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!
Congratulations to the Richler family for winning the contest!
2. THE NUGGET
Shortly after Shlomo Hamelech became king, Hashem appeared to him in a dream and offered to grant him any request. Shlomo could have asked for anything in the world. However, rather than request power, wealth, or worldly knowledge that could bring him honor, he humbly requested only an understanding heart. He would need this to judge Bnei Yisrael and distinguish between good and evil. Hashem granted him his wish. And due to the humility of his request, he was blessed beyond what he had asked for, with honor and wealth, as well as wisdom in all areas. This included the ability to understand animals.
4. FUN FACT
The name Shlomo comes from the Hebrew word shalom/peace, hinting at how peaceful Shlomo’s reign would be. He was also named Yedidiah, which means “beloved of Hashem.”
1. LIFE STORY SNIPPET
Shlomo Hamelech was the son of Dovid Hamelech and Batsheva and was appointed king over Bnei Yisrael at the young age of twelve. His biggest accomplishment as king was the construction of the first Bais Hamikdash. During his reign, there was unprecedented peace and prosperity and the surrounding nations feared and respected him. He was the wisest man of all time and he recorded some of his wisdom in 3 books of Tanach: Shir Hashirim, Mishlei, and Koheles.
3. BRINGING IT DOWN
Honor and money may be desirable things, but Shlomo Hamelech taught us that the most valuable asset is to know the wisdom of Hashem – the Torah. This enables us to know the difference between right and wrong and make the right choices.
5. QUESTION TO CONSIDER
What is an example of how you learned from the Torah to act in the correct way?
Tape the tracing paper over the template using masking tape.
Flip the tracing paper back over, tape it onto the canvas, and trace the picture once more, this time pressing firmly so each line transfers onto the canvas. When you’re done, remove the tracing paper.
Carefully trace over the entire Torah design with a pencil on the tracing paper.
Using painters tape, cover the Torah design, making sure to cover each line of the Torah.
Blend the paint using the paintbrush, making strokes from right to left. Make sure to fully cover the corners around the tape. Wait 15 minutes until the paint is dry.
Remove the masking tape, then flip the tracing paper over and trace the picture again on the back.
Use parchment paper as a placemat underneath the canvas to protect the surface. Squirt small dots of colored paint all around the Torah. Place a dot of white paint next to each dark dot of paint.
Peel off the tape to reveal your beautiful Torah design!
-1/8” Painters Tape -Paint: Green, White and Blue -Paintbrush -Parchment Paper
Chocolate-Almond Scones
By Jamie Geller
One bowl and one spoon! That’s all that lies between you and a lovely breakfast. Stir together simple ingredients, pat together the dough, bake, and then pat yourself on the back. Pattycake indeed!
Ingredients
• 2 cups all purpose flour
• ¼ cup sugar, plus more for sprinkling on top
• 2½ teaspoons baking powder
• ½ teaspoon kosher salt
• 3 ounces bittersweet or semisweet chocolate, coarsely chopped, such as Callebaut chocolate
• ½ cup chopped almonds (optional)
• 1¼ cups heavy cream
• 3 tablespoons butter, cold and cut into very small pieces
• 1 tablespoon milk or cream for brushing the tops
Preparation
1. Line a baking sheet with a double layer of parchment paper and preheat oven to 425°F.
2. In a large mixing bowl, mix flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, chocolate, and almonds, if using.
3. Make a well and add heavy cream and butter. Mix together with a spoon until you have a shaggy looking dough (the butter will still be visible), if the dough doesn’t come together, add a teaspoon of cream.
4. Dump dough onto a countertop or large cutting board and pat together to form a rectangle about a half inch thick.
5. Cut about 12 squares and place on prepared pan.
6. Brush tops with milk and sprinkle sugar on top.
7. Bake at 425°F for 12 to 15 minutes, rotating the pan once halfway, until golden brown.
8. Cool before serving. Serve with butter, jam, cream cheese, peanut butter, or anything your heart desires.
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.
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To place a Business Directory/Classified Listing contact: andrea@tsfcommunityvoice.com
Leveraging U.S. Financing for Israeli Real Estate: A Success Story
By Yitzchak Steinberg, Attorney at Law
For many Jew ish Americans, owning proper ty in Israel rep resents both a meaningful con nection to their heritage and a practical invest ment. As an attorney specializing in representing Anglo clients buy ing in Israel, I recently had the priv ilege of guiding a client through the purchase of a home in Jerusalem that showcases how buyers can ef fectively leverage U.S. financing to acquire real estate in Israel.
A Dream Home with a View of History
Just this week, I represented a Florida resident who successfully purchased a spectacular apart ment overlooking the ancient walls of Jerusalem’s Old City. What makes this transaction particu larly noteworthy is not just the property’s prime location, but the financial strategy that made it pos sible.
My client was fortunate to con nect with a motivated seller who needed immediate liquidity. By utilizing equity from his Florida home as collateral, my client was able to provide 90% of the pur chase price upfront. This swift and substantial payment positioned him as the ideal buyer in the sell er’s eyes, ultimately securing the property at an impressive 20% be low its initial listing price.
The U.S.-Israel Financing Advantage
This transaction highlights a financing approach that many American investors overlook when considering Israeli real estate. Currently, interest rates in Israel are significantly lower than those in the United States, creating a fa vorable environment for property investment. However, accessing Is raeli mortgage options can be chal lenging for non residents, which is where U.S. equity comes into play. By leveraging existing U.S. prop erties through home equity loans or lines of credit, American inves tors can:
1. Access immediate capital for Israeli property purchases
2. Negotiate more favorable terms with motivated sellers
3. Potentially secure properties below market value
4. Avoid the complexities of obtaining financing in Israel as a foreign buyer
Understanding the Process
For those considering a similar investment path, it’s important to understand several key factors:
First, American lenders gener ally have no restrictions on how you use home equity funds once approved, making them viable for international property purchases. Second, the significant time dif ference between transaction com pletion in Israel versus the U.S. can create unique opportunities. In Israel, property transfers can be completed much faster than in many American states, allowing buyers with readily available funds to capitalize on time sensitive sit uations.
Finally, the current interest rate differential between our two coun tries creates an opportunity that may not always exist. While Israe li rates remain notably lower than U.S. rates at the time of writing, economic conditions can change, making this an opportune moment for consideration.
Beyond the Numbers
Beyond financial considerations, investing in Israeli real estate rep resents a meaningful connection to a land of profound historical and spiritual significance. For many in our Florida Jewish community, owning property in Israel fulfills both practical investment goals and deeply personal aspirations.
Whether you’re looking for a va cation home, retirement property, or investment opportunity, explor ing how your U.S. assets can facil itate Israeli real estate acquisition may open doors to possibilities you hadn’t previously considered.
If you’re interested in learning more about cross border financ ing strategies for Israeli property investment, I welcome you to con tact our office for a consultation.
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
Open House Sunday
May 18th 1-6
1240 NE 176th Street, North Miami Beach, FL
$1,150,000
Beautiful upgraded, move-in ready 4-bedroom, 2-bathroom home for sale. $200,000 in upgrades, including new hurricane-grade windows and doors, stunning kitchen with separate milk and meat sections, and a durable barrel tile roof. No HOA.
The home offers a spacious 2,157 square feet layout with two bonus spaces:
+ A large enclosed garage that doubles as an extra room and laundry room, plus a one-room efficiency featuring a private entrance with cozy porch ideal for guests or rental potential.
+ The exterior includes a large air-conditioned shed, a playground, fruit trees, and RV access on the side of the house. Perfectly situated on a quiet frum block, next to the water. The home is a five-minute walk to shuls and schools.
Stunning Waterfront Home in Davis Isles
A True Florida Paradise!
Welcome to this beautifully renovated 5-bedroom, 3.5-bathroom home, 10 parking spots nestled in the desirable Davis Isles community. Completely gut-renovated in 2022, this luxurious residence boasts 2,750 sq. ft. plus 607 SQF detached garage of living space, offering elegance, comfort, and direct ocean access.
– Walk to multiple Shuls (8–15 min)
– 140 ft. canal frontage on nearly ½ acre – 3 fixed bridges to ICW; 55' clearance at I-95
– Custom finishes, deep pool, chef’s kitchen w/3 sinks
– Detached garage w/ RV parking + 2BR unit plans
– Grand master bath w/ double shower
– Smart home tech, dual HVAC & water heaters
– Spacious indoor/outdoor living, ideal for entertaining and Shabbat
COLLECTIONS, COLLECTIONS, COLLECTIONS: The Unshakable Rule of Multifamily Property Success
In the multifamily real estate world, success isn’t built on square footage or granite countertops. It’s built on one thing: rent collections.
Sure, location matters. Smart ren ovations help. Attractive amenities can be a competitive edge. But none of that pays the bills if the rent isn’t collected. Investors and owners of ten get caught up chasing aesthetics or efficiency upgrades when the real work—and the real profit—lies in one powerful truth: collections, col lections, collections.
Why Collections Are the Cornerstone of NOI
Let’s talk numbers. Net Operat ing Income (NOI) is the heartbeat of any rental property’s financial performance. It drives your proper ty’s valuation, your cash flow, and your ability to reinvest in operations or refinance. And what drives NOI more than anything else?
Consistent, full rent collections.
If your collections are weak— even with full occupancy—your income is unreliable. You might be 100% leased on paper and still 30% underwater in practice. Without consistent income, maintenance falls behind, morale drops, and tenant retention shrinks. Eventually, so does your NOI.
That’s why collections aren’t just an accounting line item—they are the foundation of a sustainable mul tifamily operation.
Happy Tenants Pay—and Stay
Here’s where smart operators dis tinguish themselves: they realize that collections depend on tenant satisfaction. Residents who feel safe, heard, and taken care of are signifi cantly more likely to pay rent on
By Jacob Mermelstein
time and renew their lease.
No one enjoys writing a rent check—but people are far more will ing to pay when they believe they’re receiving fair value. That doesn’t mean you need valet trash service or a fancy lounge. It means respond ing quickly to maintenance requests, keeping the building clean, manag ing noise and security, and showing professionalism in every interaction.
And here’s the kicker: happy ten ants usually renew, year after year.
When you retain tenants, you avoid unit turnover costs—cleaning, painting, advertising, background checks, and the dreaded vacancy window. Every avoided turnover saves anywhere from $1,000 to $3,000 depending on your market. Tenant satisfaction isn’t just good customer service—it’s a strategic move to protect operating margins and occupancy rates.
Don’t Let Arrears Spiral
There’s a dangerous myth in prop erty management: that if a tenant falls behind, they’ll catch up soon. But here’s the hard truth backed by data and experience: once a tenant falls one month behind, the odds they’ll make a full recovery drop to around 50%. Let it go to two months? That number plummets to 30% or less.
Why? Because the vast majority of tenants don’t earn double or triple their rent in surplus income each month. It’s not a matter of willing ness—it’s a matter of economics. Hoping they’ll make a miraculous financial leap without a clear re covery plan is wishful thinking, not strategy.
Your move? Act early. Act consis tently.
Enforce your lease terms. Com municate proactively. Use struc tured payment plans when appropri ate—but don’t delay enforcement. Allowing delinquencies to snowball creates cash flow problems for you and resentment among other ten ants who do pay on time.
Systems Over Sympathy
Yes, this is a people business. But it must also be a process driven business. If your collections depend on gut feelings or “making excep tions,” you’re setting yourself up for inconsistency—and ultimately, lost income.
Professional operators use sys tems: automated reminders, pay ment portals, late fee schedules, and escalation protocols. Empathy abso lutely has a place—but within the structure, not outside it. Tenants ap preciate clarity and consistency far more than chaotic flexibility. Strong systems build trust and maintain control.
Final Thought: Cash Flow Is King
At the end of the day, the measure of a healthy multifamily asset isn’t just occupancy—it’s effective rent collection and positive cash flow. Without those, your ROI, equity growth, and long term viability are compromised.
So while the market buzzes about amenities, tech integrations, or de sign trends, stay grounded in what matters most. Master your collec tions strategy. Invest in tenant satis faction. Monitor your arrears like a hawk.
Because at the core of every suc cessful property is one mantra: Collections. Collections. Collec tions.
From Overthinking to Action: What You Need To Get Started
By Shmuel Shayowitz
After reading “Who Not How” by Dan Sullivan and Dr. Benjamin Hardy, I was struck by its powerful core concept: stop asking how to achieve something and start asking “who” can help you get there. It’s a brilliant framework for entrepreneurs and high level performers who have built teams and are looking to delegate at scale.
After finishing the book, I started thinking what about the average person? What about the individual who doesn’t yet have the resources, network, or confidence to find their “who”? That’s when a new question came to mind: What if we changed the question to “What” instead of “Who?” Let’s be real sometimes, before you can find the right “who,” you simply need to decide what you want. You need to commit to a vision.
The real catalyst for transfor mation begins with asking: What do I truly want?
Not “How will I pay off my debt?” but “What does financial independence look like for me?”
Not “How can I invest in real estate?” but “What kind of lifestyle do I want to build?”
Not “How will I launch a business?” but “What am I passionate about bringing to the world?”
By getting clear on “the what,” you unlock the impetus. You give yourself permission to think and use some creativity first. The “What” sets the destination; The “how” gets figured out along the
way. And in most cases, you don’t need to know “the how” to take the first step.
This mindset shift applies to nearly every area of life.
Instead of obsessing over debt payoff strategies or investment formulas, define what financial success means to you. Is it freedom from paycheck to paycheck living? Is it the ability to give generously? Once you know what you’re moving toward, the habits and strategies (the “how”) will present themselves, and the right tools or people will show up to help.
Similarly, for real estate investing, you don’t need to know how to underwrite complex deals or structure syndications from day one. You just need to decide what kind of real estate journey you want. Do you want passive income? A legacy portfolio? Short term gains? Clarify the vision first then get educated and take your first step forward.
Many aspiring entrepreneurs never start because they feel un qualified or unsure. Very few suc cessful founders had all the an swers when they began. They sim ply committed to a clear “what”… solving a problem, creating value, building a brand and figured out the rest in real time. One action leads to another.
So if you’re feeling stuck, over whelmed, or unsure where to be gin don’t worry about the entire picture. Start by defining your “what.” Name the dream. Declare
the outcome. Give yourself per mission to want something big, even if you don’t yet know how to get there. Your job isn’t to have it all figured out.
Your job is to begin. Clarity follows action, not the other way around. Don’t wait for the perfect circumstances. Once you know what you’re working toward, the next step will reveal itself and as the book says, the right “whos” and “hows” will show up when you’re ready. PS, I am happy to fill the role of “who” and “how” when it comes to real estate, finance, and business expansion. Would you rather have 100% ownership of a small business, or 10% ownership of a growing company?? 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 who has personally facilitated over $2 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.
