Bais Yaakov High School STEM Students Bring Home 6 Top Awards At CIJE Innovation Day Competition!
By: Avigail Milevsky and Leah Blashka
Once again, Bais Yaakov of Baltimore High School students attended the annual CIJE (Center for Initiatives in Jewish Education) STEM Innovation Day, at the American Dream Mall in East Rutherford, New Jersey. Groups from 10th, 11th, and 12th grade have worked tirelessly throughout the year to produce their STEM capstone projects. From more than 400 submissions, from over 1,000 students from schools across the country, our Bais Yaakov High School STEM students won 6 awards across many categories, showcasing their ingenuity, innovation, and creativity. We are incredibly proud of all of the hard work they have put in.
Leah Blashka, Nechama Edelson, and Yael Seidel won 1st place in Engineering for Children with their product, the Soaper Helper. This group aimed to solve the problem of inconsistent handwashing habits in children
by creating an engaging soap dispenser that will play music and a countdown for 20 seconds, the recommended handwashing time.
Chavi Goodhart, Shifra Goldman, and Avigail Milevsky won 2nd place in the Promotional Video category for No Weigh, a smart container for the pantry, which tracks the levels of the contents. The container seamlessly sends the data to an app, which then notifies the user if they are low on the content of the container.
Molly Klein, Devorah Erenthal, and Tobi Smith won a Best Prototype award for their product, the BOMM. This liquid measuring cup automatically dispenses an ingredient with the push of a button, allowing a previously difficult step in the cooking process to run quickly and easily.
Kayla Heinemann, Shana Gross, and Naami Steger won a Best Pitch
award for their Safe Merge product, designed to innovate in the transportation market. Their product aims to prevent accidents on the road with large vehicles by creating a side camera, assisting drivers to merge lanes without incident.
Shira Steen and Miri Loeb won a Best Pitch award for Looze the Booze, a product designed to prevent drunk driving. They created a lock box for keys that can only be opened through a breathalyzer test, hoping to change the major problem of drunk drivers.
Tehilla Edeltuch, Yehudis Preiser, and Shaindy Sandell won a Best Pitch award for their Clever Cupboard product. With a simple wave of the hands, kitchen cabinets open, preventing dirtied handles.
Through teamwork and perseverance, the groups above, as well as all of our STEM students, truly exceled
at Innovation Day. Thank you to our STEM teachers, Mrs. Esti Pasternak, Mrs. Talya Balter, Miss Devorah Preiser, and Miss Rikki Berry, for guiding the students through the entire process of designing their innovative projects with patience and dedication. The time and effort they put into helping their students succeed is something we are so grateful for. Thank you to Miss Leora Esther Greenlinger and Miss Tzipora Marizan for taking time out of their busy schedules to chaperone the trip. Mazel Tov to our award winners and every single one of our STEM students for representing Bais Yaakov in the STEM competition.
New Teachers Thrive After Participating In A Year-Long Supportive Cohort
As the school year began to wind down, Jewish Educational Services staff and members of the New Teacher Cohort gathered to celebrate a journey full of growth, resilience, and connection. Our Finishing Well session was more than a celebration. It was a meaningful opportunity to pause, reflect, and honor a year of learning, collaboration, and transformation.
Throughout the year, this group met monthly to build the foundations of strong teaching practice. Together, they explored classroom management, student engagement, thoughtful lesson planning, supporting diverse learners, and building partnerships with families. With participants from five different schools across the community, each session was enriched by a wide range of perspectives and experiences. The cohort was facilitated by JES staff members Chaya Tropper and Yael Zelinger, whose leadership helped foster both professional growth and a strong sense of community. Participants who completed the program received a stipend and a
certificate of completion, recognizing the time and energy they invested in their development.
Over time, something deeper began to take shape. This was no longer just a series of professional learning sessions. It became a community. Research shows that nearly one third of new teachers leave the profession within their first five years, and those who feel supported through strong relationships and mentoring are significantly more likely to stay.
Survey feedback reflected what many felt in the room. Teachers spoke about how much it meant to have a space where they could be honest, ask questions, and connect with others who truly understood the challenges of a first year. Several shared that the cohort helped them feel less alone and more confident stepping into their roles.
One participant said, “This cohort reminded me that I’m not alone. Every month I left with something I could use immediately in my class-
room.” Another reflected, “The conversations were just as valuable as the sessions themselves. It felt like a safe space to be honest about struggles and celebrate wins.”
The final session brought these reflections to life in a powerful, tangible way. Teachers stepped back to reflect on their year and expressed their growth through creative artifacts such as clay sculptures, posters, and mixed media pieces. The experience was both reflective and deeply connecting, as they shared their stories in a supportive and safe atmosphere.
Some of the artifacts revealed just how transformative the year had been. One teacher created a clay cup filled with scraps, explaining, “A lot of things were thrown at me. Things I did not expect. But those moments became opportunities for reflection, and I grew because of them.” Another designed a heart adorned with mirrors to represent her work with a challenging class, sharing that she came to see her students and herself with greater compassion, recognizing growth in both.
Alongside the reflection, there was also celebration. Teachers were recognized with awards honoring their progress and dedication, and the evening was marked by a sense of joy and camaraderie, shared over a festive meal that made the experience feel even more special.
By the end of the evening, it was clear that what mattered most was not just what these teachers learned, but who they became along the way. They are leaving their first year not only with new strategies, but with greater confidence, a sense of belonging, and a clearer vision of themselves as educators.
We are excited to begin planning for next year’s New Teacher Cohort. If you are in your first or second year of teaching or know someone entering the profession who would benefit from this experience, we encourage you to get involved. For more information or to refer a teacher, please reach out to Chaya Tropper at ctropper@ jesbaltimore.org.
Playoff Picture Still Taking Shape In JCSL By MDSC
With just one game remaining in the 2026 JCSL by MDSC regular season, the playoff race remains crowded.
While a few teams have already secured their place in the upcoming Ashley Custom Homes Postseason, several others still have work to do before they can officially book their playoff reservations. Every at-bat, run, and defensive gem could prove to be the difference between extending the season and cleaning out the equipment bag.
And while the playoff field is beginning to take shape, one question remains unanswered: Who will ultimately take home the Premier Financial Trophy?
If this past Sunday’s action taught us anything, it’s that nothing should be taken for granted.
CREZLY Earns First Win of the Season
CREZLY finally broke through in the win column, edging Gerstman-Insurance 11-10 in a wild one.
Baruch Glazer and Evan “Steven” Sagal helped ignite the offense early, while Aharon Schnur and Eli Kelemer delivered key hits to keep CREZLY in front.
The game featured enough momentum swings to make spectators dizzy. Defensive miscues threatened to derail CREZLY’s chances on several occasions, but each time they responded with timely hitting and refused to let the game slip away.
Gerstman-Insurance mounted a late rally and brought the tying run into scoring position, but CREZLY’s defense came through in the biggest moment of the season, recording the final out and securing a memorable first victory.
Clothier Moves Within Reach of the Playoffs
Clothier reminded everyone that the playoff race is far from settled.
Powered by backup catcher/designated hitter Ozzie “The Beached Whale” Marizan, Clothier defeated CREZLY 8-5 and moved to the brink of securing a postseason berth.
Marizan was nearly impossible
to retire, finishing a perfect 3-for-3 while driving in his team’s first four runs. His mammoth three-run double in the second inning broke a scoreless tie and gave Clothier a lead it would never relinquish.
Jeremy Strauss and Yitzy “Lord get me” Hyatt each collected two hits, while Yankie Goldsmith contributed two hits of his own and earned the victory on the mound.
Perhaps the biggest celebration came courtesy of Aiton “Left Out” Marizan, who recorded his first hits of the season, including an infield single that may have required league officials to review security camera footage to verify.
Orshan Legal Group Remains Perfect
At this point, Orshan Legal Group appears determined to make league historians work overtime.
With their undefeated season hanging in the balance, Orshan Legal delivered, extending their perfect record and strengthening their position as one of the favorites heading into the postseason.
The recent free-agent additions continue to pay dividends, none more so than rookie shortstop Avi Abramson, whose defensive play drew rave reviews from teammates and spectators alike.
Ezra Rosen had a monster day at the plate, blasting a triple and a double while driving in five runs. On the mound, Dr. Stutman kept hitters guessing all afternoon, making adjustment after adjustment and controlling the strike zone with the precision of an expert chiropractor.
Elazer “I want to break” Freedman turned the outfield into his personal highlight reel with several spectacular catches, while Moshe “Smooth like” Mutterperl, Tzvi Perlman, Uncle Lefky, Shlomo Rosenstein, Calvin McCracken, and Meir Samberg all contributed in important ways.
Orshan Legal remains unbeaten and will look to complete a perfect regular season next week.
Lazar Real Estate Clinches the #2 Seed
In a matchup that may not have generated national headlines but certainly generated plenty of dugout commentary, Lazar Real Estate defeated Clothier 9-6 to officially clinch the #2 seed in the upcoming postseason.
A balanced offensive attack helped Lazar establish control early, while timely defensive plays prevented Clothier from fully closing the gap.
The Lazar roster once again featured its colorful cast of characters, including first baseman Ben “Bet it all on” Blackman, who spent much of the afternoon vacuuming up throws around the bag, and third baseman Walter Johnson, who continued proving that hot-corner defense is still an art form.
The standings now confirm that Lazar Real Estate will enter the postseason as one of the league’s top contenders.
Gerstman Insurance Bounces Back
After suffering the heartbreaking one-run loss to CREZLY, Gerstman Insurance responded with an impressive bounce-back performance.
Gerstman fell behind 3-0 early but immediately answered with four runs in the bottom half of the inning and never looked back.
Captain Shimon Kanter helped set the tone offensively. Veteran Josh Zaslow looked as steady as ever, and Sol Kuhnreich seemingly reached base every time he stepped into the batter’s box.
Defensively, Big Neil Charnowitz put on a clinic at first base, repeatedly rescuing errant throws and preventing potential rallies from developing.
After the early deficit, Gerstman took complete control and cruised to another strong team victory.
“The Catch Heard Around the World”
Tov Pizza and Lazar Real Estate delivered one of the most entertaining defensive battles of the season.
Tov Pizza jumped out to an early 3-0 lead before Lazar slowly chipped away and eventually narrowed the deficit to 6-4 entering the final inning.
Then came the play of the day.
With a runner on first and nobody out, a pop fly drifted into the infield. Two fielders converged and collided, and the ball appeared destined to fall harmlessly to the ground.
Instead, Captain Shua Novograd emerged seemingly from nowhere and made a barehanded catch just before the ball hit the dirt. The play immediately turned into a double play and completely shifted the momentum.
The Lazar dugout stood stunned. The crowd erupted.
By the time the inning ended, Tov Pizza had escaped with a dramatic 6-4 victory and perhaps the defensive play of the year.
Web Interactive Technologies Sweeps Doubleheader
Few teams had a better Sunday than Web Interactive Technologies.
Entering the day searching for their first win, WIT decided to skip directly to two of them.
First came a 7-5 upset over YL Waitering. Then came a 10-7 victory over Tov Pizza.
Leading the charge was owner and star player Navid Raoofian, who spent the day treating the basepaths like his own personal amusement park. According to reports, Raoofian stole home seven times during the doubleheader, a statistic that remains under review but has not yet been disproven.
Regardless of the exact total, WIT’s offense was aggressive, opportunistic, and relentless throughout both games.
One Week Remains
With only one regular-season game left, the playoff picture remains partially unfinished.
What everyone knows for certain is that the race for the 2026 Premier Financial Trophy remains open.
And if this season has taught us anything, it’s that no lead is safe, no game is predictable, and somewhere out there another barehanded catch is waiting to happen.
613 Seconds with Rabbi Elie Meyer, Director of Development at Torah Institue: RISE & SHINE: Helping Every Child Succeed
BJH: Before we talk about the campaign itself, what is SHINE?
TI: SHINE is one of the most important programs at Torah Institute because it reflects a core belief of our school: every child deserves the opportunity to succeed. SHINE provides the resources, support, and expertise needed to help students overcome challenges, build confidence, and reach their full potential. For some children that means extra academic help, while for others it means specialized instruction, counseling, or targeted interventions. At its heart, SHINE is about making sure every student has what he needs to thrive.
BJH: Who benefits from SHINE?
TI: The simple answer is: almost everyone. While SHINE provides direct services to students who need
additional support, its impact extends throughout the entire school. More than 370 students are touched by SHINE services each year. Every grade benefits from some form of targeted support, helping ensure that teachers and rebbeim can meet the needs of every learner in their classrooms.
BJH: Many people may not realize how extensive the program is. Can you share some examples?
TI: Absolutely. SHINE employs 32 tutors who provide individualized support in Limudei Kodesh, Kriah, and General Studies. More than 200 students receive one-on-one tutoring and learning support annually. We also run 12 specialized instructional groups serving approximately 75 students. In addition, students make about 20 visits each day to our drop-in support room for assistance with classwork, tests, reteaching, and review.
BJH: Does SHINE focus only on academics?
TI: Not at all. Academic success is important, but children are more than grades and test scores. SHINE also provides counseling, social skills support, behavioral planning, and student guidance services that benefit approximately 90 students each year. We want students
to feel confident, capable, and successful both inside and outside the classroom.
BJH: How does SHINE support Torah Institute’s educational mission?
TI: One of the things that makes Torah Institute special is that we strive to see every child as an individual. SHINE allows us to live that value every day. Rather than pulling students away from the school experience, SHINE is woven seamlessly into it. Students receive the support they need while remaining fully connected to their rebbeim, teachers, classmates, and the broader school community.
BJH: What are some of the less visible aspects of the program?
TI: There is a tremendous amount of work happening behind the scenes. Each year SHINE administers approximately 2,000 reading and Kriah assessments to track progress and identify student needs. The team develops around 30 individualized educational plans and works closely with parents, rebbeim, teachers, and outside professionals to ensure students receive the right support at the right time.
BJH: Why is Torah Institute launching the RISE & SHINE campaign?
TI: Because programs like SHINE don’t happen by accident. They require significant resources and ongoing investment. The annual SHINE budget is approximately $1.94 million and supports tutors, specialists, assessments, interventions, and educational programming. The RISE & SHINE campaign is an opportunity for our entire community to come together and help sustain a program that positively impacts so many students and families.
BJH: What would you like the community to know as the campaign approaches?
TI: I would want people to understand that SHINE is not simply a support program—it’s a statement about who we are as a school. It reflects our commitment to ensuring that no child is left behind and that every student has the opportunity to succeed. Every family benefits from being part of a school that invests in its children this way. We hope the community will join us in celebrating and supporting a program that helps so many of our students rise—and shine.
The Torah Institute RISE & SHINE campaign will take place June 22–25.
The Week In News
The Week In News
U.K. Social Media Youth Ban
On Monday, U.K. Prime Minister Keir Starmer announced a sweeping social media ban for teenagers under the age of 16, noting that the restrictions could be in effect next spring.
The ban, which Starmer says will “give kids their childhood back,” includes restrictions on Snapchat, TikTok, Instagram, YouTube, Facebook, X, and other social media, gaming, and live-streaming platforms. The ban will not impact You-
Tube Kids, Lego Play, Google Classroom, and other services designed for children, nor will it include messaging platforms, including WhatsApp and Signal.
“It is clear to me a full ban is the right choice,” Starmer said. “It will make a huge difference, it will make our children safer, it will make our children happier, it will give them more time, more security, more freedom to grow up, more opportunity.”
The U.K. is following in the footsteps of Australia, which recently became the first country to ban social media for children. However, Britain may go beyond Australia’s model, as the government also weighs online curfews to prevent infinite scrolling for those under 18.
“‘World-leading blocks’ on livestreaming and strangers contacting children would also be imposed,” Starmer said. “Is there a situation in the offline world where you would just let your child pair up with a stranger, an adult that you don’t know anything about?”
Some experts have questioned whether the ban would make a difference. Big Tech companies have criticized the move.
YouTube noted its investment in “ex-
pert-led, age-appropriate experiences and default protections for teens for over a decade,” adding that its service is “a vital resource for young people, educators and parents.” Snapchat and Meta warned that the bans might have negative effects, including isolating teens from their friends and leading children to unregulated alternatives.
While children may find ways to circumvent the ban, Starmer says that the restrictions could usher in a new culture surrounding social media.
Canada Delays Bridge Opening
Canada was on track to open the Gordie Howe International Bridge,
which would connect Detroit with Windsor, Ontario, by June 21, according to the Windsor-Detroit Bridge Authority. However, on Thursday, Prime Minister Mark Carney announced that Canada agreed to a U.S. request to delay the bridge’s opening, citing technical issues.
Carney said that the ongoing trade dispute between Canada and the United States wasn’t necessarily the reason the bridge’s debut was delayed.
In February, U.S. President Donald Trump insisted that the U.S. have a 50% or higher ownership stake in the bridge and full compensation “for everything we have given” to Canada. Last week, the White House reaffirmed the president’s commitment to securing the best possible deal for the U.S. U.S. Trade Representative Jamieson Greer said last week that negotiations with Canada have hit an impasse, citing retaliatory trade actions taken against American goods. While Greer and his office have not specified which measures are causing concern, officials in the Trump administration
Greater Washington Weekday Minyanim Guide
6:15 am Young Israel Shomrai Emunah M-F
6:20 am Ohev Shalom Talmud Torah OLNEY M, Th
6:25 am Southeast Hebrew Cong., Knesset Yehoshua M-F
6:30 am Beth Sholom Congregation M-F
Beit Halevi (Sfardi) M, T
Chabad of Silver Spring M-F
Ohev Shalom Talmud Torah OLNEY T, W, F Young Israel Shomrai Emunah S YGW M, Th
6:35 am Ohr Hatorah M, Th
6:40 am YGW S, T, W, F Magen David Sephardic Congregation M-Th
6:45 am Beit Halevi (Sfardi) S, T, W, F
Kemp Mill Synagogue M, Th
Ohr Hatorah T, W, F
Young Israel Shomrai Emunah M, Th
6:50 am Woodside Synagogue/Ahavas Torah M, Th Silver Spring Jewish Center M-F
Chabad of Upper Montgomery County M-F
6:55 am Young Israel Shomrai Emunah T, W, F
7:00 am Kemp Mill Synagogue T, W, F
Southeast Hebrew Cong., Knesset YehoshuaS Silver Spring Jewish Center S
BETHESDA
Magen David Sephardic Congregation [S]
11215 Woodglen Dr, North Bethesda, MD 20852
GAITHERSBURG
Chabad of Upper Montgomery County [Ari] 11520 Darnestown Rd, Gaithersburg, MD 20878
OLNEY
Ohev Shalom Talmud Torah (OSTT)
18320 Georgia Ave, Olney, MD 20832 POTOMAC
Woodside Synagogue/Ahavas Torah T, W, F
Young Israel Ezras Israel of Potomac T, W, F
7:05 am Kesher Israel M, Th
7:15 am Kemp Mill Synagogue M, Th Kesher Israel T, W, F
Ohev Sholom Talmud Torah/The National Synagogue M-F
Young Israel Ezras Israel of PotomacS Young Israel Shomrai Emunah (Sfardi)S
8:05 am Ezras Israel Congregation of Rockville M, Th
8:15 am Ohr Hatorah S Ezras Israel Congregation of Rockville S, T, W, F Kehilat Pardes / Berman Hebrew Academy S-F
Silver Spring Jewish Center M-F
8:30 am Chabad of DC S Chabad of Potomac S JROC S Ohev Sholom Talmud Torah/The National Synagogue S Silver Spring Jewish Center S YGW (Summer Only) S-F
8:45 am Young Israel Shomrai Emunah S-F
9:00 am Chabad of Silver Spring S Kemp Mill Synagogue S
2:00 pm Silver Spring Jewish Center S-F
2:10
3:00
mincha/maariv
Before Shkiah (15-18 minutes), S-TH
Beit Halevi (Sfardi)
Beth Sholom Congregation
Chabad of Potomac
Chabad of Silver Spring
Chabad of Upper Montgomery County
Ezras Israel Congregation of Rockville (20 min before, S-F)
JROC
Kemp Mill Synagogue
Kesher Israel
Magen David Sephardic Congregation
Ohev Sholom Talmud Torah/The National Synagogue Ohr Hatorah
Silver Spring Jewish Center
Southeast Hebrew Congregation
Woodside Synagogue/Ahavas Torah
Young Israel Ezras Israel of Potomac
Young Israel Shomrai Emunah (Asheknaz)
Young Israel Shomrai Emunah (Sefarhadi)
maariv
8:45 pm YGW S-Th
9:15 pm Silver Spring Jewish Center S-Th
9:30 pm YGW S-Th
9:45 pm Ohr Hatorah S-Th
10:00 pm YGW S-Th
shacharis
The Week In News
have repeatedly objected to restrictions imposed by most Canadian provinces on the sale of U.S. wine and liquor through government-controlled retail outlets. Those restrictions were introduced last year in response to tariffs that Trump placed on Canadian imports.
In the 2010s, Canada agreed to pay for the bridge’s construction, which will be co-owned by Michigan. The bridge was expected to economically benefit both Canada and Michigan, potentially saving billions of dollars.
“Michigan secured a great deal on the financing of this bridge: we haven’t paid a dime, yet we will reap significant economic benefits for decades,” a spokeswoman for Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer said.
Russian Strikes Intensify
At least eleven people were killed after Russia fired hundreds of drones
and dozens of missiles at Ukraine, hitting Kyiv and Kharkiv, and damaging the historic religious landmark Kyiv-Pechersk Lavra’s Dormition Cathedral, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky announced on Monday.
The attacks came after U.S. President Donald Trump spoke to Zelensky and Russian President Vladimir Putin individually on the phone on Sunday.
“This is how Russia shows the world its intention to continue the war,” Zelensky wrote on X. “It is very important that there be a response from the G7 countries … and that this response be decisive and substantive: more pressure on the aggressor and more support for Ukraine’s air defense, especially anti-ballistic capabilities.”
Five people were killed in Kyiv, the capital of Ukraine, according to Mayor Vitali Klitschko.
Tymur Tkachenko, the head of the capital’s Military Administration, said that 30 or more people were wounded in the strikes, including a 5- and
6-year-old.
Russian strikes hit a 25-story apartment building and other civilian structures in Kyiv’s Shevchenkivskyi district and caused a market and grocery store to catch fire. A nine-story residential building was struck in the Obolonskyi district. Russia claims to have targeted military and industrial sites.
Four emergency service workers and a Kharkiv City Council emergency department employee were killed in the strikes, and another six rescuers and three civilians sustained injuries, according to local officials.
The strikes damaged the Kyiv-Pechersk Lavra, which is also referred to as the Monastery of the Caves, an 11th-century monastic complex and a religious landmark. Metropolitan Epiphanius, the leader of the Orthodox Church of Europe, slammed Russia for committing another crime “against humanity, against history, against Christianity.” Zelensky, who reportedly visited the damaged site, characterized the attack as Russia’s “biggest crime yet against Christian culture.”
Of the 70 missiles and 611 drones fired by Russia, 50 missiles and 582 drones were intercepted or electronically suppressed by Ukrainian air defenses. Forty-two sites were hit by 20 ballistic missiles and 27 drones.
A Deal with Iran
A memorandum of understanding was signed digitally by the United States and Iran on Sunday, ending the countries’ war and setting up future nuclear talks, according to U.S. Vice President JD Vance. An in-person signing ceremony was scheduled for Friday in Switzerland.
Though the agreement’s text has yet to be publicized, officials say the MOU ends the U.S. blockade on Iran, reopens the Strait of Hormuz, and sets up the “structure” for 60 days of talks for a new nuclear deal. It is unclear when the exact terms of the deal will be revealed, though U.S. President Donald Trump said the text would probably be released “some time after Friday.”
The Strait of Hormuz will be reopened immediately, and its traffic
is expected to resume as usual in the coming weeks.
Israel was not involved in talks leading up to the deal. At a press conference held after the MOU’s digital signing, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said that Israel does not yet know what the deal entails.
At the press conference, Netanyahu insisted that Israel emerged victorious in the conflict, eliminating the threat of Iran’s nuclear program “for years to come.” He declared that “we saved the State of Israel from annihilation.”
“We targeted the nuclear scientists; we eliminated the leaders of the terror regime; we crushed the nuclear facilities; we destroyed missiles and the vast majority of the factories that produce missiles,” Netanyahu said. “We struck countless military industries and infrastructures. We destroyed their navy, their air force. We eliminated base commanders who massacred the Iranian people. We caused enormous damage — [some] estimate it in the hundreds of billions of dollars, some estimate it at even close to a trillion dollars — to Iran’s economy.”
Netanyahu also dismissed the notion that Trump forced Israel to stop fighting.
“In the U.S., they say that President Trump does everything I ask, and in Israel, they say the opposite, that I do everything he asks,” he said. “Neither is true.”
“We have a relationship of partners who know each other,” he added. “Many times, we agree; sometimes, we don’t agree. That happens in the best families.”
Netanyahu’s speech was met with criticism from opposition leaders, who accused Netanyahu of failing to fulfill his war objectives.
Naftali Bennett, a former prime minister and leading opposition leader, suggested that regime change in Iran will only be possible once Israel’s ruling coalition is replaced.
Gadi Eisenkot, the leader of the Yashar party and a potential candidate in the upcoming election, said that Netanyahu would be better off “to say, ‘I erred, I set false goals that I wasn’t able to achieve.’ This would have given Netanyahu much more credit and respect from the people, if he had admitted he made empty declarations.”
By Authority: Committee for Karson Kamenetz, Samuel Shubin, Treasurer
have exclusively been run by humans, Milei’s plans, which he framed as an “invitation” to tech companies, could unleash an AI business free-for-all in Argentina.
“As much as the industrial revolution freed us from the constraints of the human muscle, AI will free us from the constraints of the human brain, pushing productivity beyond our wildest dreams,” Milei wrote in his opinion piece, emphasizing the importance of taking risks. “Let Buenos Aires become for AI what Amsterdam was for the age of sail – the place where the legal imagination caught up with the technological moment, and the world was changed.”
In response, Harari raised concerns that AI companies, undeterred by the threat of prison, may cheat in business and exploit their superior intellect to find “legal loopholes and regulatory arbitrage.” Milei praised Harari for participating in “this fascinating and transcendental debate,” pledging to address the historian’s concerns.
da through criminal acts, the government had not shown that its activities justified a terrorism ban. The ban remained in place while the government appealed.
Palestine Action co-founder Huda Ammori said the group would continue fighting the decision, promising to appeal to the Supreme Court and the European Court of Human Rights. She called the ban “one of the most extreme attacks on free speech and the right to protest in modern British history.”
The British government outlawed Palestine Action after activists broke into a Royal Air Force base in June 2025 while protesting British military support for Israel’s campaign against Hamas in Gaza. The incident followed a series of vandalism attacks targeting defense-related sites.
The designation placed Palestine Action alongside organizations such as Al-Qaeda and Hamas under Britain’s terrorism laws. Membership in or support for a banned group can carry a prison sentence of up to 14 years.
Some have noted that the plan — an unregulated AI economy — could cause a great deal of chaos, though Big Tech companies have by and large
Palestine Action
The British government acted lawfully when it banned the protest group Palestine Action as a terrorist organization, the Court of Appeal in London
Chief Justice Sue Carr said the group’s claim that it was merely a civil disobedience movement was not supported by the evidence. The court found that Palestine Action operated through covert cells that carried out planned attacks on defense companies
“In our judgment, that premise was seriously flawed,” Carr said, adding that it was not reasonable to describe Palestine Action as a nonviolent orga-
The ruling overturned a February decision by three senior High Court judges who had ruled that although the group promoted its political agen-
Since the ban was introduced, more than 3,300 people have reportedly been arrested at protests for displaying signs stating, “I oppose genocide. I support Palestine Action.” More than 700 people have been charged under the UK Terrorism Act, though no convictions have yet been recorded. Civil liberties organizations criticized the government’s move, arguing that it risks criminalizing peaceful protest. The group Defend Our Juries said the ruling would lead to further arrests and called it an attack on democratic freedoms.
Supporters of the ban, however, said Palestine Action’s activities went beyond protest. The group, founded in 2020, has carried out direct-action campaigns against military and industrial sites, including facilities connected to Israeli defense company Elbit Systems. Officials said the attacks caused millions of pounds in damage and created security concerns.
The legal battle comes after four members of the group were sentenced last week for breaking into an Elbit facility in Bristol in 2024 and destroying equipment. A judge ruled that their actions amounted to terrorist offenses. More than 100 Palestine Action supporters were arrested outside the London court during the sentencing proceedings.
The Week In News
Stipends for Hilltop Youth
The Israeli government plans to provide hundreds of young people living in hilltop communities in Judea and Samaria with daily financial assistance for food and clothing, as part of a program officials say is designed to reduce violence against Palestinians, according to a report this week by Ynet.
The plan, led by the Ministry of Settlement and National Missions headed by Orit Strock, would provide each recipient with NIS 50 ($17) per day. The funds would be transferred to regional councils, which would distribute the money to the teenagers.
According to a ministry document cited by Ynet, 657 young people living in hilltops and agricultural outposts across the area have been identified as eligible. The recipients include 225 people in the Binyamin region, 129 in Samaria, 120 in the Jordan Valley, 99 near Hebron, and 84 in Gush Etzion.
The payments are expected to continue for about seven months, through the end of the year, at a total cost of approximately NIS 5.5 million ($1.9 million). The assistance will also be provided through food vouchers intended to cover basic necessities.
The stipend program is part of a broader NIS 120 million ($41.3 million) initiative aimed at addressing what officials describe as settler violence through educational and social programs. The broader effort includes funding for social workers, mediators who will work between hilltop youth and local authorities, workforce integration programs, and initiatives encouraging military enlistment.
Opposition MK Vladimir Beliak has asked Attorney General Gali Baharav-Miara to review the plan, questioning whether the funding meets standards of equality, transparency, and whether it is justified in supporting this specific group rather than other at-risk youth.
Government officials said that the program is intended to supplement— not replace—law enforcement efforts.
“The goal is an envelope of welfare and education for them, in order to protect this enterprise and prevent its slipping into violence,” government sources said, adding that youths involved in serious violence should face criminal prosecution.
The officials also expressed support for outposts in Judea and Samaria in general, saying the government views hilltops and farms as important for security and preventing Palestinian territorial expansion.
In recent years, some people living there have been accused of carrying out frequent attacks against Palestinians, including assaults, arson, and property damage. Critics have pointed to low arrest and conviction rates in such cases, as well as allegations that security forces have sometimes failed to intervene.
The issue has drawn international scrutiny, with rights groups and foreign governments criticizing the violence and calling for stronger enforcement measures.
Changes to Hebron Agreement
Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich announced this week that Israel had removed parts of the 1997 Hebron Agreement that gave the Palestinian municipal council of Hebron authority over planning, zoning, and construction in the H2 area of the city.
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The move affects the section of Hebron where the Jewish community is located, as well as Mearas Hamachpeila, one of the most important religious sites in the region.
Speaking at a ceremony marking the establishment of a new community in Judea and Samaria, Smotrich declared, “Yesterday, we annulled the Hebron Accords,” saying the previous arrangement had allowed Palestinian authorities influence over Jewish areas and holy sites.
“For many years, one of the most absurd clauses of the Oslo accords remained in place,” Smotrich said. “Yesterday, we put an end to that.”
The Palestinian Authority strongly rejected the announcement, saying the move violated agreements signed with Israel and international law. Officials called on the United States and the international community to intervene.
However, Israel’s Foreign Ministry pushed back on Smotrich’s wording, saying the Hebron Agreement itself had not been canceled.
“Contrary to the Finance Minister’s statement, the Hebron Agreement has not been canceled,” the ministry said. It explained that a Security Cabinet decision approved changes relating specifically to planning and construction involving the Jewish community in Hebron and Jewish heritage sites, while “no other changes” had been made.
Under the original Hebron Agreement, signed during Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s first term along with PLO chairman Yasser Arafat, the city was divided into two zones. Israel withdrew from H1, which covers most of Hebron, while retaining security control over H2, which includes the Jewish community and Mearas Hamachpeila.
Civil responsibilities in H2, including building and zoning decisions, had remained under Palestinian authority.
Smotrich said the new arrangement would place those responsibilities under the control of “the State of Israel.” His office did not provide details about which government body would oversee the authority, though it indicated that the Civil Administration’s planning body had begun implementing the change.
The announcement is part of Smotrich’s broader efforts to strengthen
Israeli control in Judea and Samaria and expand Jewish building and activity in the area. Palestinian leaders say the measures undermine prospects for a future Palestinian state.
Hebron remains one of the most complex and contested cities in the region, with several hundred Jewish residents living among a Palestinian population of roughly 200,000. Mearas Hamachpeila, revered by both Jews and Muslims, has long been a flashpoint.
Oct. 7 Attack Intended to Cut
Saudi-Israeli Ties
Hamas launched its October 7, 2023, attack on Israel partly in an effort to derail potential normalization between Israel and Saudi Arabia, according to internal documents seized from the terror group.
The materials were published by the Meir Amit Intelligence and Terrorism Information Center and later reported by the Kan. The documents describe Hamas discussions in which leaders expressed concern that Saudi Arabia was moving closer to establishing diplomatic ties with Israel.
In the years before the attack, reports indicated that Riyadh was considering a normalization agreement similar to the U.S.-brokered Abraham Accords signed between Israel and several Arab countries.
According to the documents, Hamas established a special office in 2022 tasked with countering efforts toward normalization between Israel and Arab states.
Minutes from a February 2022 Hamas leadership meeting in Gaza reportedly stated that the group wanted to escalate tensions in Gaza, the West Bank, and East Jerusalem “in order to thwart the Saudi kingdom’s process of normalization.”
The documents cited the Second Intifada, the wave of Palestinian terror attacks in the early 2000s, as an example of how violence had previously disrupted diplomatic efforts. Hamas described the campaign of suicide bombings and attacks as having contributed to the collapse of the Arab Peace Initiative process.
By 2023, Hamas leaders concluded that their efforts to create regional instability had not achieved their desired impact. In late September, a leadership meeting chaired by Gaza chief Yahya Sinwar focused on the Saudi-Israel normalization talks.
According to the report, Sinwar presented a document titled “Dealing with the normalization process between Saudi Arabia and Israel,” arguing that Hamas could disrupt the process by demonstrating that Israel was not secure.
“Hamas is not a negligible party; our resistance can thwart the plans,” Sinwar reportedly said, according to the documents.
On October 2, 2023, Hamas leadership decided to move forward with what Sinwar described as an “exceptional action” involving Hamas and its allies in Iran’s regional network, according to the report.
Five days later, thousands of Hamas-led terrorists crossed into southern Israel during the Simchas Torah holiday under heavy rocket fire. The assault killed approximately 1,200 people, mostly civilians, and resulted in the abduction of 251 hostages.
The attack triggered a wider regional conflict involving Hezbollah, the Houthis, and other Iran-backed groups.
Since the attack and subsequent war, Saudi-Israel normalization has not moved forward, with Israeli and Saudi officials indicating that such an agreement is not currently imminent.
El Al Partners With Starlink
El Al Airlines has signed an agreement with Elon Musk’s satellite internet company Starlink to provide highspeed internet access across its fleet, the airline announced this week.
The service, operated through SpaceX, is expected to begin being
installed on El Al aircraft in 2027 and will be offered to passengers free of charge. The airline said the technology will allow hundreds of travelers to connect at the same time, including on long-haul flights.
The agreement marks a major upgrade for El Al passengers, who will be able to stream videos, work, communicate, and stay connected throughout their flights.
“The integration of Starlink technology into El Al aircraft is a significant step forward,” said El Al CEO Levy Halevy, adding that passengers will be able to “stay connected in the air” and use the internet without interruptions.
Unlike many older airline Wi-Fi systems that rely on traditional satellites, Starlink uses a network of lowEarth-orbit satellites designed to provide faster speeds and lower delays. The technology has been expanding rapidly in the aviation industry as airlines look for better connectivity options for travelers.
El Al’s partnership with Starlink comes as the airline continues expanding its fleet and routes. The company operates Boeing 787 Dreamliner aircraft for long-distance travel and has also ordered Boeing 737 MAX planes for European routes.
Starlink has been signing deals with airlines around the world as it competes for a larger share of the inflight internet market. Several carriers have turned to satellite-based systems as passenger demand for reliable WiFi continues to grow.
Since the outbreak of the war in October 2023, El Al benefited from reduced competition as many international airlines suspended flights to Israel. However, competition is expected to increase as major carriers announce plans to resume service to Tel Aviv.
Elon Musk is World’s First Trillionaire
Elon Musk has become one of the most influential business figures in
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modern history, with his companies and personal brand reshaping industries from automobiles to space travel and artificial intelligence.
The entrepreneur is now on track to become the world’s first trillionaire following the public offering of SpaceX, the rocket, satellite, and AI company that has become the centerpiece of his business empire. The company raised a record $75 billion in its initial public offering, reflecting strong investor confidence in Musk’s longterm vision.
Before the stock sale, Forbes estimated Musk’s wealth at roughly $780 billion, far ahead of other billionaires. His stake in SpaceX alone is valued at hundreds of billions of dollars, and combined with Tesla and his other ventures, his net worth is expected to cross the $1 trillion mark.
“Musk’s rise is unlike anything we’ve seen before,” said Matt Durot, deputy editor at Forbes Wealth. He noted that the gap between Musk and other wealthy individuals has grown dramatically, with few others ever approaching similar levels of wealth.
Musk first became a household name through Tesla and SpaceX. Tesla helped accelerate the global shift toward electric vehicles, while SpaceX transformed the space industry through reusable rockets and ambitious satellite projects.
“He renewed the world’s respect for American ingenuity in automotive engineering,” said Bob Lutz, a former General Motors vice chairman.
But Musk’s influence extends far beyond business. His 2022 purchase of Twitter, now known as X, gave him a powerful platform to comment on politics, technology, and culture. His outspoken style has earned him millions of supporters, while critics have accused him of accumulating too much power.
His involvement in politics, including his role advising President Donald Trump’s administration through the Department of Government Efficiency initiative, has also drawn controversy.
Supporters argue that Musk’s willingness to challenge conventional thinking is exactly what drives his success. Critics warn that the growing concentration of wealth and influence around one individual creates risks for investors and society.
Analysts have even coined the term “Elon premium” to describe the extra value investors place on Musk’s leadership and ability to turn ambitious ideas into successful companies.
“Much like Tesla, SpaceX is a bet on Elon Musk,” said Matt Kennedy, senior strategist at Renaissance Capital.
Beyond Tesla and SpaceX, Musk has founded or helped create companies including The Boring Company and Neuralink.
As Musk’s fortune continues to climb, his supporters see him as a visionary shaping the future, while his critics question what happens when so much economic and cultural influence rests with a single entrepreneur.
Bomber Crashes at Air Base
Eight crew members died on Monday after a U.S. Air Force B-52 bomber they were on crashed shortly after takeoff at Edwards Air Force Base in California, the Air Force chief of staff said.
Emergency crews immediately responded to the crash, which occurred at 11:20 a.m. local time.
“It is with profound sadness that we mourn the loss of eight teammates today at Edwards AFB,” said Gen. Ken Wilsbach in a social-media post on Tuesday. “My thoughts are with the bomber and test communities during this difficult time. I am keeping the families, friends, and loved ones affected in my prayers.”
A towering plume of smoke was seen in the skies over the base after the crash.
“An Air Force B-52 Stratofortress carrying eight people on a routine test mission crashed today shortly after takeoff at 11:20 a.m. (PDT),” according to a statement from the base posted on social media. “Initial indications are that the crash was not survivable.”
The crash of the Boeing-made plane is under investigation, according to the statement. Two of the eight crew members were Boeing employees.
The B-52, which came into service in 1952, has been a staple in the Air Force since the Cold War. Originally designed for long-range nuclear strikes, the plane has been a workhorse used to strike targets with non-nuclear
weapons during the decades-long military campaigns in Iraq and Afghanistan, and more recently against Iran. The B-52H, which is still flown today, was delivered in the early 1960s.
The Air Force uses four of its 76 B-52s for testing. A U.S. official said it was one of the test aircraft that crashed on Monday.
The eight-engine bomber has been used in recent years as a “mothership” aircraft for hypersonic weapons.
The Air Force is planning to replace the 1960s-era engines on the B-52 with modern engines that are more fuel-efficient. The new engines along with other upgrades, including new radars, are supposed to keep the plane flying until the aircraft marks a century in service.
Edwards is home to some of the Air Force’s most secretive research. It houses the Air Force Test Center, Air Force Test Pilot School, and the National Aeronautics and Space Administration’s Armstrong Flight Research Center.
SpaceX to Buy AI Coding Firm for $60B
SpaceX is making a major push into artificial intelligence with a blockbuster agreement to acquire Anysphere, the parent company of AI coding platform Cursor, for $60 billion.
Under the deal, Cursor will receive $60 billion worth of SpaceX stock, according to a filing released on Tuesday. The acquisition comes shortly after SpaceX’s historic public debut, which sent the company’s valuation soaring toward $3 trillion.
SpaceX shares jumped 19% on the first day of trading, climbed another 20% on Monday, and continued rising Tuesday morning. The surge pushed SpaceX’s market value past Amazon, making it one of the most valuable publicly traded companies in the United States.
Cursor, launched in 2023 by four
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saying the methodology did not account for important factors that influence pricing. Ryan Thornton, an Uber spokesperson, said the company does not use personalized “surveillance pricing.”
“Trips with the same pickup and drop-off points are not identical,” Thornton said, explaining that fares also depend on timing, driver location, traffic, routing, and real-time marketplace conditions.
Lyft also criticized the investigation, saying that the large number of volunteers checking prices at once may have created artificial demand and affected the results.
The report also questioned some promotional discounts shown in Uber’s app, claiming some were based on inflated original prices. Uber disputed that finding as well.
As ride-hailing companies increasingly rely on algorithms and artificial intelligence to set prices, the debate over transparency and fairness in digital pricing continues to grow.
Bugging Out
Australia’s latest wildlife crackdown had authorities dealing with a case that was anything but small — especially when the “suspects” had six legs.
More than 100,000 live cockroaches were confiscated from a single breeder in New South Wales in what officials called the country’s largest-ever seizure of illegal exotic invertebrates.
The creepy-crawly collection was discovered in May at a commercial breeding operation in Bathurst and included thousands of Madagascar hissing cockroaches and dubia cockroaches — species that are banned from being imported, kept, bred, or sold in Australia.
The bugs were valued at approximately 200,000 Australian dollars ($142,000), proving that for one breeder, the roach business was apparently anything but a “small fry” operation.
The Madagascar hissing cockroach is no ordinary household pest. Growing up to 3 inches long, it can stretch larger than a person’s finger and makes a distinctive hissing sound when disturbed.
Compared with Australia’s common cockroach, which is usually less than an inch and a half long, these insects are practically the heavyweight champions of the cockroach world.
Officials said the exotic species pose a potential threat because they have not undergone environmental risk assessments and could spread disease or disrupt native ecosystems.
Bathurst snake catcher Stefanie Lesser told the Australian Broadcasting Corp. that the oversized roaches were likely being sold as reptile food because their larger size meant pet owners could feed fewer insects at a time.
But authorities said reptile owners should stick to approved options, such as crickets or wood roaches, because when it comes to invasive insects, Australia wants no “roach invasion.”
Australia maintains some of the world’s strictest biosecurity laws to protect its agriculture, plants, and native wildlife. Anyone caught smuggling illegal animals, insects, or plant material can face thousands of dollars in fines.
In this case, officials said no charges were filed against the breeder. The confiscated cockroaches, however, will be euthanized. Raid, anyone?
The incident has left Australians with one burning question: How does someone even end up with 100,000 cockroaches?
“Spider-Man of Yemen” Dies
He climbed cliffs with bare hands, dangled from rock faces hundreds of feet above the ground, and earned the nickname “The Spider-Man of Yemen.” But one final climb ended in tragedy.
Al-Qaqa Ibn Antar, 30, a social media-famous daredevil, died on Friday after falling into a volcanic crater while attempting to scale its steep walls without safety equipment, authorities said.
Antar was climbing the vertical rock faces of the Hardah Dam volcanic crater in Yemen’s southern Dhale province
when he lost his grip and fell approximately 393 feet into the crater below, according to the Civil Defense Authority.
A short video released by authorities captured the terrifying final moments. The footage shows Antar climbing the rocky wall with no harness, ropes, or protective gear. After gripping the cliff with his right hand and reaching upward with his left, he suddenly appears to lose his hold and disappears from view.
For the man known for defying gravity, gravity ultimately had the final say.
Rescue teams, including diving and water specialists, rushed to the scene. After a difficult four-hour operation through the crater’s steep and dangerous terrain, divers recovered Antar’s body about 100 feet below the surface of the lake at the crater’s base.
Officials described the rescue as “complex” due to the challenging landscape.
The Hardah Dam — also known as the Haradhat Damt — is a striking natural landmark near the city of Damt. The volcanic crater features towering rock walls and a hot sulfurous lake below, making it both a breathtaking destination and a hazardous one.
Antar had built a large following online by posting videos of extreme climbs across some of Yemen’s most rugged terrain. His clips often went viral, including one where he appeared to hang from the edge of a cliff using only his bare hands.
His followers watched in awe as he pushed limits, but experts warn that the line between adventure and danger can be razor-thin.
The Civil Defense Authority urged climbers and adventure enthusiasts to use proper safety equipment and follow precautions.
“Sometimes, the greatest climb is knowing when to step back,” officials warned.
Spiderman has fallen off his web.
Feathered Fan
Mexico’s World Cup opener had goals, cheers, and a victory — but the biggest star of the day wasn’t wearing cleats.
Meet Merlin, a 2-year-old duck who has waddled his way into international fame after becoming the tournament’s first unofficial mascot.
As Mexico celebrated its win over South Africa, Merlin was spotted marching through Mexico City dressed in a tiny
Mexican national team jersey — complete with socks over his webbed feet — as fans gathered in the streets. Photos of the fashionable fowl quickly spread online, earning millions of views and turning the duck into an overnight sensation.
The magic of Merlin’s rise to fame seemed fitting. After all, he was named after the legendary wizard, and just like his namesake, he somehow managed to cast a spell over the internet.
“Forget the players — we need Merlin at the stadium,” one fan posted.
“This duck is already a national treasure,” wrote another.
Some fans even declared him “the best thing about the World Cup so far.” Merlin was already famous long before he became a global sensation. In Mexico City, he is a familiar face — or rather, a familiar beak — at local events and fairs, where he accompanies his owner Carla Gómez as she sells water and soft drinks from her cart.
Rain or shine, Merlin joins Gómez and her young son Cristian as they travel around some of the city’s most famous landmarks, including Alameda Central, the Palace of Fine Arts, and the Zócalo.
“He’s our baby,” Gómez said. “He’s the sole heir to all my possessions and now an idol.”
Gómez said she never expected her pet to become an international celebrity.
“He is always with us; we never imagined he’d become such a sensation,” she said. Her son Cristian received him as a gift.
But Merlin’s new fame has already taken him beyond the streets of Mexico City. He recently met with FIFA representatives for photos and a commercial shoot, giving the duck a taste of the big leagues.
Now, fans are hoping Merlin can bring good luck to Mexico throughout the tournament. With his jersey, confidence, and perfectly timed appearances, he may just give the team a real “quack” at victory.
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Lev HaTorah Academy: A New Student-Centered Jewish School Opening in Baltimore
A new chapter in Jewish education is coming to Baltimore with the opening of Lev HaTorah Academy for the 2026–2027 school year. Serving preschool, elementary, and middle school students, Lev HaTorah Academy was founded with a clear mission: to help every child thrive academically, spiritually, and personally.
At the heart of the school is a commitment to seeing each student as an individual. Rather than a one-size-fits-all approach, Lev HaTorah Academy combines research-based instruction, ongoing progress monitoring, and personalized learning strategies to ensure that every child receives the support and challenge they need to succeed. Small class sizes and strong caring teacher-student relationships allow educators to understand each child’s strengths, identify areas for growth, and create pathways for meaningful achievement.
The school’s academic program is built upon proven methods in literacy and mathematics, while its Judaic studies curriculum focuses on developing authentic Torah skills alongside a genuine love for Torah, the Jewish people, and Eretz Yisrael. Students engage in learning through multiple modalities, including hands-on projects, experiential activities, real-world applications, and sensory-rich experiences that bring lessons to life and help students develop deeper understanding and lasting connections.
What sets Lev HaTorah Academy apart is its unique balance of academic excellence, character development, and individualized attention. The school’s educational philosophy recognizes that children learn differently and flourish when they feel known, valued, and supported. Through real-time progress tracking and responsive instruction, teachers can adapt to students’ needs while maintaining high expectations for growth and achievement.
Under the leadership of veteran educator Mrs. Serena Stern, M.Ed., Lev HaTorah Academy is guided by a highly respected educator and administrator with more than two decades of experience in both Jewish and general education. A graduate of Hillel Academy of Pittsburgh and Ateres Bnos Yerushalayim in Jerusalem, Mrs. Stern earned her bachelor's degree from Stevenson University and her master's degree and professional certifications from McDaniel College.
Throughout her career, she has served in both classroom and leadership roles, playing a vital part in implementing programs that promote academic excellence, faculty development, and student growth. Her passion for education is rooted in the belief that every child deserves to be known, understood, and empowered to succeed. Combining proven educational practices with a deep commitment to Torah values, Mrs. Stern has developed a vision for Lev HaTorah Academy that emphasizes individualized instruction, strong school-family partnerships, and the cultivation of confident, capable students.
The school is dedicated to fostering a warm, caring environment where students develop confidence, independence, and a lifelong love of learning, while growing into thoughtful contributors to their families, communities, and the broader Jewish world. As Baltimore families explore educational options for the coming years, Lev HaTorah Academy offers a compelling vision: a school where rigorous academics, strong Torah values, and personalized attention come together to help every child reach their highest potential.
For more information or to schedule a visit, families can learn more at levbaltimore.com.
As we build a strong, solid foundation to our program, student applications for the 2026-2027 school year remain open - including expanded space for additional preschoolers. Reach out to info@levbaltimore.com to meet Mrs. Stern and schedule a tour.
Talented educators are invited to join our team. Please contact careers@levbaltimore.com or call 443-450-6782 today!
Torah Thought OOF!
By Rabbi Zvi Teichman
Dasan and Aviram lace into Moshe, cynically accusing him of having brought them out of Egypt, a ‘land flowing with milk and honey’, to die in the wilderness, abusing his authority to dominate them. They add one more indictment.
ףא — Also, you did not bring us to a land flowing with שבדו בלח — milk and honey... (די זט רבדמב)
After castigating Moshe for callously jeopardizing their lives, what significance is there in their adding, “by the way you ‘also’ didn’t keep your promise to bring us to the Holy Land either?”
The Midrash points out that there were four individuals who prefaced their words with the word ףא, and were afflicted with the, ףא ןורח — wrath of G-d, in retribution. (ב טי ר"ב)
The serpent began his seduction of Chava to partake from the Tree of Knowledge with his introductory query: ףא—“Did G-d really also say that you may not eat from any of the trees of the garden?” (א ג תישארב)
He was cursed for his insolence.
During the incarceration of Yosef in Egypt, the Chamberlains of the Cupbearers and Bakers each have a dream. After favorably interpreting the Chamberlain of the Cupbearers dream, the Chamberlain of the Bakers exclaims: ינא ףא — “I, too, In my dream...”, going on to depict his exact dream, seeking Yosef’s interpretive skills. (זט מ םש)
His interpretation though forebodes his doom.
The congregation of Korach, as quoted earlier, who began their plaint with ףא, were decimated by His anger.
Haman cannot tolerate Mordechai’s gall in not bowing down to him. Fuming and seeking to calm his ego he arrives home and boasts about his wealth and stature, adding how: (בי ה רתסא) ףא —
“Also, Queen Esther invited no one but myself to accompany the king to the banquet she had prepared, and tomorrow too I am invited by her along with the King”.
He too, succumbs to the wrath of G-d.
Is this merely a cute play on words? The word ףא although in its simplest interpretation means ‘also’, alternatively is used to imply anger, as the nostrils of our nose which are termed ףא, flare with wrath when enraged.
So, was it simply their careless use of the term ףא that was used in their own contexts to mean ‘also’, that forebode their doom?
Rav S.R. Hirsch ponders the usage of the word ךיפא, in the description of man’s curse to eat bread ךיפא תעיזב, by the sweat of your face, rather than the more common ךינפ, your face, when describing the sweaty beads of moisture that flow when laboring hardily in the production of the literal and proverbial ‘bread’.
The ףא is the nostril, the portal through which G-d breathed life into our souls. ףא additionally means, ‘also’. He writes: Hence םיפא means the opening of the body through which man greedily take in the stream of life necessary for the maintenance of life, i.e. the nose and also used in a broad sense, in general, the striving, wishing, longing, face, hence םיפא ךרא, patience, םיפא רצק, impatience, and ףא unsatisfied desire, anger. But םיפא in general, is the face turned in any direction... And ךיפא תעזב, not ךינפ… the effort to absorb the world in oneself to gain a little piece of the universe to oneself, is the object of all work. (ז ב תישארב)
Ironically, the same nostril that was the portal through which life, the spirit of G-d, was infused within man, that should fill us with gratitude and joy in the knowledge that we live by His breath, is so often the same conduit for expressing our unhappiness with life when things do not go our way. We symbolically reject His force — by which all circumstances of life are directed — with exasperated frustration.
What exactly frustrates us in life?
The serpent by rhetorically questioning Chava whether she was prohibited from eating from all the trees in the garden was deviously asking her a more pointed question.
“Is it possible that G-d denied you the greatest pleasure on earth, that of eating from the Tree of Knowledge?” Can a human be expected to be aware of exquisite delights that are denied to him and yet withhold the uncontrollable urge to experience it? The notion that it is simply not reasonable to expect man to control that was is so instinctive to him, is poisonous idea the serpent sought to plant into the mind of Chava.
The Chamberlain of the Bakers thought logically he would surely be exonerated, since the crime of the Chamberlain of the Cupbearer was certainly the greater offense, since it was the Chamberlain who carelessly held the fly infested cup himself, placing it into the very hand of Pharaoh, as opposed to the Baker who unwittingly served bread in which a not visible pebble had previously fallen into.
We often rely on our own logic and understanding to determine our expectations. When circumstances confound that logic, we erupt inappropriately with agitation.
The Congregation of Korach’s gravest error wasn’t simply the accusation against Moshe for bringing them to die in the wilderness. It was their misguided thinking that one’s personal objectives must be met in order to appreciate life. They had longed to finally put stakes down in the promised land and settle there. This became their overriding goal in life. When they sensed that goal eluding them, they broke down and angrily lost all faith.
We, too, create dreams and define goals and expect them to be achieved. When they are foiled, or the timetable is delayed we get angry and frustrated.
Haman was upset with Mordechai’s defiance. But what disturbed him even more was that to all the evidence around him, things were going his way. He brought proof to that from the special treatment he received from the Queen herself who invited him exclusively to accompany the King at her feasts.
Another grave mistake we make in life is in drawing conclusions from the circumstances in our daily lives that
things are going our way assuming we are riding in first class with nary a fear that it may abruptly change. When it does, we react with utter disappointment wondering how G-d could have abandoned us.
Instead of taking a deep breath in, savoring the joy and fortune of life, we angrily spew our frustration back at G-d.
The great Tzaddik, Reb Efrayim’l of Pshedvorz, reports having heard from a disciple of Breslov, that ףא, is the same gematriya/numerical equivalent (81) as עבט, nature.
(Essay based on
and 'ר-תישארב
We have natural expectations in life. We assume we have physical limitations we cannot go beyond. We think that logic rules supreme. We expect personal goals are a personal right. We even believe that we determine our standing before G-d by judging the favorable station we find ourselves in.
We are mistaken. One must live without expectations, for no one can fathom G-d’s greater plan for our good.
ףא is also a contraction of the two most important words we need to live by:
, simple belief
Reb Efrayim’l brings that the total of the years of the lives of our patriarchs, Avrohom, Yitzchok and Yaakov — 175,180, and 147 respectively equals:
— 502!
There is a similar sounding common expression when experiencing frustration to blurt out ‘OOF’!
The next time you face difficulty and ‘life’ lets you down, take a slow deep breath and contemplate the value of life.
Remind yourself how much G-d loves you and cares about your welfare like no other can.
Don’t permit the rush of air ‘naturally’ escaping in angst to scream out in anger ‘OOF’. Instead, exhaling slowly letting the thoughts of your trust and faith in G-d encompass you and allow you to happily and calmly accept the goodness that you receive every moment of your life, whether you grasp it or not.
You may reach the author at: Ravzt@ ohelmoshebaltimore.com
OVERVIEW PARSHA
Korach leads a rebellion against Moshe and Aaron. Moshe tries to reconcile, but to no avail. Korach and his followers get swallowed by the earth. Many Jewish people die in a plague. Aharon's position of authority is confirmed.
The Parshah also discusses guarding the Mishkan, as well as gifts to the Levites and Priests.
TSorahparks
Inspiration. Everywhere.
Parshas Korach
QUICK VORT
Quotable Quote
“This is what man is all about; the purpose of creation … to make a dwelling for G d in the physical world..”
-Baal HaTanya
GEMATRIA
T he gematria of Korach – חרק – is 3 08, which is the same as רובק , or b uried. Korach was, of course, b uried alive in the ground after it m iraculously opened its mouth. In t ruth, though, he was “buried” well b efore that. Living with jealousy and e go is really not “living.” On some l evel, Korach was “buried” alive.
The commentaries point out that the mistake of Korah was חרק
– and Korach took. Instead of working his way up, instead of climbing and journeying, instead of letting Hashem do His job of being the One in control, Korach “took” it upon himself to make things happen on his own. He focused on the results –being on top – as opposed to working hard at the journey.
He was trying to force a chill. He tried t o take the prestigious levels of authority upon himself, and did not have the wherewithal and patience to work hard and let Hashem make things work out for him. He tried to work it out himself.
Of course, it is imperative that we have lofty dreams, goals, and aspirations. We must look at the top of the mountain and think big. But, at the same time, we should have the humility and patience to work at it, and keep working at it, knowing that there is tremendous value in the climbing of the mountain.
Each step up or down that mountain, will teach a person a new aspect about himself and the world at large.
PARSHA STATS
Pesukim - 95
Words - 1409
Letters - 5325
Mitzvos - 9
ThoughtsChassidus in
When the Mishnah in Avos says
- this is the argument of Korach and his assembly - it doesn't say who they argued against. Why?
Because, explains the Noam Elimelech, in essence, they were arguing amongst each other! Each one had their own negative approach and preconceived notions!
Know?! Did You
The Arizal teaches that in the future, Korach will be elevated. He refers to Korach as a Tzadik and sees an allusion to Korach from the end-letters of קידצ
PointsPonder to
Rabbi Ori Strum is the author of “Ready. Set. Grow.” “Dove Tales,” “Karpas: The Big Dipper,“ and “VEYIDGU: The Upstream Jew.”
His shiurim and other Jewish content can be found on Torah Anytime and Meaningful Minute. He may be reached at rabbistrumo@gmail.com
Keep climbing. Don’t stop!
There are 95 pesukim in Korach. 95 is the numerical value of ןמה (Haman). What is the connection (if any) between Korach and Haman?
Scan the QR code to view Torah classes from R’ Ori Strum on Torah Anytime!
Ruining The Moment Tech Triumphs
As told to Rebbetzin Sara Gross
Iruined something precious, and I can’t fix it.
One day, my middle-grade son was doing his homework from his rebbe. He sat down at the dining room table and opened his mishnayos. In a clear and beautiful voice, full of intensity and fervor, my son began to sway back and forth and chant the mishnayos the way they do in his classroom. My heart swelled at the sweetness and purity of how he was learning. I wanted to capture it forever.
Whipping out my phone, I hid behind a pillar in the dining room and tried to video him while he learned. After a second or two, my son looked up and caught me in
the act. He flushed and lowered his voice, mumbling the rest of the Mishnah. I quickly apologized and said I didn’t end up recording, but it was too late. Since then, he has never gotten into his homework in the same way. I never witnessed the same purity and innocence I had ruined with my bad choice.
TECH TIPS:
One of the greatest challenges of technology is how much time it can consume. The average American spends over five hours a day on their smartphone. Doomscrolling and falling down internet rabbit holes are common examples of today’s widespread problem: managing our time on digital platforms that
are deliberately designed to keep us engaged for as long as possible. This challenge affects not only our own time management but also our ability to manage our children’s use of digital media.
The good news is that most devices either include or can be equipped with tools to help set time limits. Apple devices, such as the iPhone, iPad, and Mac, have a feature called “Screen Time” that helps users track and limit device usage. You can set daily limits for specific apps and schedule downtime, during which only selected apps, such as Phone and Texting, remain available. Android phones have also begun incorporating similar features into their operating systems, and apps like “AppBlock”
offer additional tools for managing screen time. Windows laptops provide similar functionality through Microsoft’s Family Safety screen time controls. Some popular content filters, such as Techloq, GenTech, and NetSpark, also allow users to create schedules that restrict internet access entirely or limit access to specific websites during designated times.
With the help of these built-in features, along with the personal discipline to configure and maintain them, we can make significant progress in reducing our dependence on these addictive devices. By doing so, we can reclaim valuable time and spend more of it enjoying the meaningful and wholesome activities of offline life.
AR’ Moshe Chaim Proctor Basketball, Belief, and Being Yourself
By Eliyahu RosEnBERg
s a young teen mourning the tragic loss of his mother, Moshe Chaim Proctor found comfort on the basketball court. His heroes were the players, his passion was shooting hoops, and every dream of his, every road he fantasized about traveling, led him back to basketball. His life revolved around the sport.
In His Words…
Growing up in Monsey, basketball wasn’t just young Rabbi Proctor’s passion. It was the 10-year-old’s escape from the trauma of watching his mother battle
i’ll quote Rav gav: There are two things in life: Things you can change, and things you can’t change. if you can change it, then change it! But if you can’t change it, then why worry?
so, wherever and whoever you are, look at yourself in the mirror and say, ‘i’m okay. i’m okay with being me. i want to understand myself, and i’m going to trust the process. i don’t have all the answers now, but that’s okay.’ a nd again, unconditional love starts with the self. The Torah says, ‘V’ahavta l’reiacha kamocha,’ love your friend like you love yourself. if you don’t love yourself, you won’t be able to love your friend. it won’t be real love.
set aside time to spend with your child. Don’t ask him to learn with you if you know that’s going to push him away. Play ball with him, take him out. yes, take him to a movie, something pareve, something positive, something that will strengthen your relationship with him. and be very clear. let him know that you’re there for him… Be there for your child, unconditionally!
cancer for two years. It was the only outlet, it seemed, for the young boy’s pent-up aggression, frustration, and helplessness. And as Moshe drifted into teenagehood and away from Yiddishkeit, basketball took on a new role in his life, filling the void he felt without Judaism. By the time he finished middle school and started high school at a Modern Orthodox yeshiva in Teaneck, the boy identified as two things: as a basketball fanatic and an atheist.
In ninth and tenth grade, Moshe emerged as a star player on his school’s basketball team. In eleventh, he won a gold medal in the Maccabi Games — a dream come true for the 16-year-old. But then, in the summer after eleventh grade, something weird happened.
“I went to a very intense summer camp after eleventh grade — a basketball camp. And… it was the first time in my life that I didn’t enjoy basketball,” Rabbi Proctor remembers. “Basketball for me at the time was, l’havdil, almost like G-d. But I didn’t enjoy it anymore. I was forced into it. I took a pen and wrote on my hand, ‘Do more of what makes you happy. If it’s not making you happy, cut it out.’”
But he decided to give the sport another shot, and so he continued playing in twelfth grade, which he says was “min hashamayim,” because it changed his life.
One day, Moshe messed up during practice and immediately retreated into a shell of frustration and self-loathing. When his coach, a non-Jewish man named Coach Oz, realized how upset Moshe was, he assured the boy that all was good.
“Moe, don’t worry, bro. We’re good. I got you,” Coach Oz told him.
Suddenly, Moshe had an ah-hah mo -
ment. The words “I got you” seemingly flipped a switch inside Moshe’s head.
“At that moment, I made my first kal v’chomer, my first kol she’kayn argument,” Rabbi Proctor shares. “I said, ‘If this person says he’s got me, he’s got my back, that I don’t have to worry — then how much more so does the Creator of the world, does the Source of everything, have my back, loves me, cares about me?’ What are we worried about? Stop: He’s got you.
“We created wristbands that said ‘GGM’ on them: ‘G-d’s got me,’ and we sold the wristbands and donated the money to Migdal Ohr.”
That “small” realization got the ball rolling. After three years of spiritual distance, he started thinking about Hashem again, and his connection to G-d began to blossom. “It was a whole journey, a whole experience. In twelfth grade, I started learning about G-d. I read the Garden of Emunah by Rav Shalom Arush and Living Emunah by Rabbi David Ashear,” Rabbi Proctor recounts.
From there, Moshe learned at Aish HaTorah during his gap year, following in the footsteps of his father, who became a baal teshuva at the yeshiva decades earlier. For a year, he immersed himself exclusively in chassidus and wisdom — in trying to understand Hashem.
“I wasn’t down for Gemara yet. I was trying to figure out: Is there a G-d? Does He care about me? Does He know me? Does He love me?” Rabbi Proctor recalls. “Rabbi Moshe Chaim Eade taught us a little bit of Sefer Tanya, just a few pages, about the process of your G-dly soul fighting it out with your animal soul. Well, already that was a new point for
me — that I have a G-dly soul, a Chelek Elokah Mima’al, and that G-d loves me, cares about me, and knows who I am! And I said, ‘Wow.’”
There was another moment soon thereafter that changed the way Moshe viewed Judaism. He was in Yerushalayim at a wedding made by the Belzer Rebbe, and surrounding him were over 10,000 chassidim. He remembers them dancing with such joy, jumping up and down, singing their hearts out together.
“And I thought, ‘Hold up, hold up! I’ve been to Madison Square Garden. I’ve been to NBA Finals. To all sorts of sports arenas. And you have 20,000 people screaming about sports.’ And hey, I love sports, till this very day, especially basketball,” he notes. “But when I was in that arena, in that venue with 15,000 Jews, connecting to a higher power through the medium of music, I said, ‘This is incredible. Wow. There’s actually something here.’”
He spent another two years at Aish, delving into Gemara and halacha before continuing his studies in Mir. Soon thereafter, he met and married his wife. The couple lives in Yerushalayim.
Today, at age 26, Moshe Chaim Proctor is a rabbi at Aish HaTorah on a mission to inspire youths and connect people to Hashem.
During high school, Moshe once discussed his spiritual struggles with Rabbi Moshe Weinberger, sharing how Judaism felt unfulfilling and confusing to him. But when Moshe mentioned the term “off the derech,” Rabbi Weinberger immediately objected.
“To say a kid is ‘off the derech’ implies that there was a derech and the kid went off of it,” Rabbi Weinberger told him. “Giv-
ing a kid a Gemara in fifth grade and telling him to ‘learn this’ is not a derech!”
It’s not that these kids go “off the derech”; it’s that they were never given a derech — they were never told what it means to be on the derech — to begin with!
As Rabbi Proctor explains, “It starts in the home” — with unconditional love, a loving parental connection that exists regardless of a child’s actions; a rock that children could lean on no matter what.
“Yes, you can make it clear to them that you don’t approve of what they’re doing. But if they don’t have you, they’re going to find love, respect, and admiration from someone else, from not good places,” Rabbi Proctor warns. “Set aside time to spend with your child. Don’t ask him to learn with you if you know that’s going to push him away. Play ball with him, take him out. Yes, take him to a movie, something pareve, something positive, something that will strengthen your relationship with him. And be very clear. Let him know that you’re there for him… Be there for your child, unconditionally!”
That’s Rabbi Proctor’s advice to parents, which he bases on his own relationship with his father.
“Growing up, many kids who were trying to find themselves and are what they qualify as ‘off the derech,’ ended up at 7-Eleven and drinking, smoking, and doing drugs. Thank G-d, I never got involved in drinking, smoking, and drugs — and I was what they call ‘off the derech.’ I never got involved in those things because I have a father who gave me unconditional love, who wanted my best,” Rabbi Proctor shares.
Even more powerfully, he draws upon his own struggles as a teenager to guide kids whose shoes he once walked in. His first suggestion: “Take a deep breath.”
“Once you take a deep breath, take
another one, and know that it’s okay, it’s normal. You’re a normal teenager. This is a part of life. And I’m going to borrow a term that they used for one of the basketball players in the NBA, Joel Embiid of the 76ers. When they drafted him, it was difficult, and he was going through injuries. You know what the NBA said? They said, ‘Trust the process,’” Rabbi Proctor shares. “So, wherever and whoever you are, look at yourself in the mirror and say, ‘I’m okay. I’m okay with being me. I want to understand myself, and I’m going to trust the process. I don’t have all the answers now, but that’s okay.’ And again, unconditional love starts with the self. The Torah says, ‘V’ahavta l’reiacha kamocha,’ love your friend like you love yourself. If you don’t love yourself, you won’t be able to love your friend. It won’t be real love.
“It starts with, ‘I love myself for who I am as a person. I’m G-dly. I’m special. I have what to give. I have what to accomplish.’ You might say, ‘Okay, I’m not per-
fect. I’m struggling. I don’t like Shabbos. I may not keep kosher. I have a hard time putting on tefillin. I don’t like the rabbi in school,’ whatever it might be, ‘I don’t like the way I look. But it’s okay. I’m in the process. I’m on a journey.’”
Rather than seeing them as “struggling,” Rabbi Proctor views teenagers who have a hard time with Judaism as “authentic.” While older generations perhaps emphasized going through the motions, pushing through discomfort, this generation insists on wrestling with their doubts, asking questions, and finding meaning, Rabbi Proctor says. The point of mitzvot, he reminds us, isn’t just performance — it’s about connecting to G-d.
“You are the future of Klal Yisrael, because you’re real. You’re authentic. And this is authentic Judaism,” Rabbi Moshe Chaim Proctor declares. “OTD is not ‘off the derech.’ It’s ‘on their derech.’ So, be real. Find your path.
“And be yourself.”
This article is based on a podcast, “Inspiration For the Nation,” hosted by Yaakov Langer. To catch more of this conversation, you can watch it on LivingLchaim.com or YouTube.com/LivingLchaim or listen wherever you listen to podcasts (just search for “Inspiration For The Nation”) or call our free hotline: 605-477-2100
To Raise a Laugh
Slow Cones
It’s finally summer – time to get out and hit the open road, and find out that the open road is closed.
Because unfortunately, road crews also hit the road in the summer. That’s the easiest time get those potholes fixed. Also, I guess the heat helps them work. They don’t have to turn the steam roller on as high.
We all want them to get rid of the potholes, but we don’t want to see them working.
Though actually, we don’t see them working. Mostly we see them taking breaks. We just come across a huge sign that says something like, “Lane closed for no reason,” and we see machines everywhere and guys in hard hats drinking coffee.
And cones. And if there are cones, we’ll use other lanes. We always believe the cones, even if we don’t see the workers. We never call them on it.
I recently passed some road construction, by which I mean one person standing next to a bunch of construction equipment, and he was holding a huge sign that said, “SLOW.” And my son asked me, “Is that his whole job?” And I was like, “Yeah, maybe.”
I don’t know. But as a parent, I get to make things up.
So my son asked, “How come he has to do the boring job?”
And I said, “Because he didn’t pay attention in school.” In construction class. Because I don’t actually know if the sign means that we should drive slow or that the guy is slow and that we should be aware of that and not make any sudden moves to confuse him. Maybe he’s one of those slow children that the schools are always advertising about.
And it’s not like they have to fix the roads. There’s a cheaper option. Instead of construction, they could just label all the potholed roads, “historic routes.”
“Why are you late?”
“We took the historic route. Then we got ambushed by Native Americans, somebody claimed us in the name of Spain, and our horse died of chicken pox.”
We have lots of historic roads in Passaic – it’s a very historic community. Case in point, one Sunday, a few months back, I noticed on the way to taking my kids to yeshiva that there was a pothole about a block from the school. This was under a train bridge, in the dark, so it was hard to see in the first place. I only noticed it myself when the car in front of me suddenly swerved, and I saw, at the very last second, the top half of a traffic cone sticking out of a pothole. There were also a few hubcaps lying around that should have given it away.
It wasn’t very visible. I know this because my wife mentioned that she barely saw it later when she was taking our younger son to school, and that the car behind her actually hit it and got a flat tire.
So I said, “What about the traffic cone?”
And she said, “What traffic cone?”
The cone had mysteriously disappeared. Well, not mysteriously. It was down the road, in pieces.
So my wife called the police, who were like, “But it’s a Sunday!”
Okay, they didn’t say that. But they didn’t immediately turn on their sirens either.
So the dispatch officer said, “Okay, maybe we’ll send someone out there to see if he can do some kind of temporary fix.”
And when my wife and I came by later, on the way to parent-teacher conferences, we saw that someone had indeed been by. There was a new cone! Halfway in the hole. And lest you say that a second orange cone would be just as invisible as the first, to this one someone had tied a bouquet of balloons. Like “Surprise! It’s a pothole!”
They were just regular balloons, I think. They didn’t say like, “It’s a boy!” Or “Mazel Tov!” Or “Get well soon!”
By Mordechai Schmutter
My thought was that someone from the school probably did it. My wife thought it was definitely some police officer who came by and said, “These should hold until tomorrow!”
They didn’t.
Point is, tying up roads and pretending to work is 100% better than balloons, because if we’re not using that road for the 6 or 7 weeks it’s blocked off, that’s 6 or 7 weeks we’re not hitting that pothole.
And the truth is that most of the time, we’re not really upset at the road crews, we’re upset at the other drivers. The road crews are working. This is their job. No one is ever upset to see people showing up to do their job, except for students. And we can’t really be upset when the crews aren’t working either. You know how it is when you’re working and you stop for a second to do something, and just then someone important happens to walk by? Well, road crews are the same way – just as people drive by, they’re not working. It just happens to be that people are driving by all day.
In fact, the workers are annoyed by us Their whole lives are trying to work where people want to drive. And imagine you were at your desk, trying to pretend to work, and people kept coming by to slow down and look over your shoulder to make comments, like, “You can put the 6 on the 7.” Because everyone slows down. Everyone in front of you, at least.
I personally think they should never bring a highway down to one lane. It should be two lanes – the “I want to see” lane, and the “I just want to go, because I’ve seen construction workers before” lane. And if you stop to look in the “I just want to go” lane, you should be forced to get out of the car and help. Perhaps by holding up the sign that says “SLOW.”
Mordechai Schmutter is a freelance writer and a humor columnist for Hamodia and other magazines. He has also published eight books and does stand-up comedy. You can contact him at MSchmutter@gmail.com.
Forgotten Her es America the Beautiful –and Bizarre
By Avi Heiligman
As America prepares to celebrate its 250th birthday with great fanfare, many are reflecting on the unique legacy that made the United States one of the most prosperous countries in history. Here at TJH’s Forgotten History Department, we are marking this milestone by uncovering some of the nation’s more interesting and overlooked incidents. While a few of these stories may be familiar, each one holds a unique place in the American story.
While the nation has had its fair share of inventors and innovators since 1776, there was one mind that was way ahead of his time – in fact, he began working on his inventions before independence had even been declared. David Bushnell began attending Yale College at the age of 31 to study science and mathematics, but by his senior year in 1775, he designed a device that was to become the world’s first combat submarine. Called the Turtle, it was built with oak beams and iron bands and featured a hand-cranked screw propeller, a foot-operated valve, and a hand pump to let water in and out of the ballast tank. Bushnell also demonstrated that explosives could be detonated underwater, constructing a mine that utilized a clockwork timing mechanism. In September 1776, Continental Army Sergeant Ezra Lee used the Turtle to attempt an attack
on the HMS Eagle in New York Harbor. While the attack failed, Bushnell continued developing weapons like the naval mine and later joined the Continental Army as a combat engineer.
Exactly 50 years after the signing of the Declaration of Independence, two of the most important figures involved with that historic document died just hours
pendence Day exactly five years later; James Monroe, America’s fifth president, died at the age of 73 in New York City.
Wilmer McLean was a grocer and sugar trader living near Manassas, Virginia, when, on July 21, 1861, one of the first large encounters of the Civil War took place on his farm. In what became known as the First Bull Run, or the First
Supply crates were stamped with “U.S.” for the United States, and soldiers joked that it stood for local supplier Samuel Wilson, whom they called “Uncle Sam.”
apart. On July 4, 1826, at Monticello, Virginia, former president and primary author of the Declaration, Thomas Jefferson, died at the age of 83. Just four hours later, in Quincy, Massachusetts, John Adams, the nation’s second president and the man known as the “Atlas of Independence,” passed away. Reportedly, his last words were, “Thomas Jefferson survives.” Incredibly, another former president and Founding Father passed away on Inde -
Battle of Manassas, his house, which was being used as Confederate headquarters, was bombarded by federal cannon fire. A cannonball came through the kitchen fireplace, and because of this experience, McLean decided to move his business and residence to a place that was considered safer. Little did he know that his new location, Appomattox Court House, would be the site of the surrender of the Confederate Army under Robert E. Lee to
Union General Ulysses S. Grant. Thus, his homes were the sites of the first and last major engagements of the bloodiest war on American soil.
Often, the United States government is referred to as “Uncle Sam,” and the origins of the name date back over 200 years. Before Uncle Sam, the nation was personified as “Brother Jonathan,” named after Connecticut governor and advisor to George Washington, Jonathan Trumbull. This caricature was a New England “Yankee” with a small hat and striped pants, symbolizing everyday American citizens and colonists. However, during the War of 1812, supply crates were stamped with “U.S.” for the United States, and soldiers joked that it stood for local supplier Samuel Wilson, whom they called “Uncle Sam.” By the Civil War, this nickname had taken on the persona of an elderly man with a top hat and a striped suit, permanently replacing Brother Jonathan.
Several other historical figures had their names enter the American lexicon, including John Hancock. As the legend goes, he signed his name on the Declaration of Independence so large that the King of England wouldn’t need his spectacles to read it. While it may just be a good story, the term “Hancock” today is universally recognized as a signature, no matter the size of the autograph.
Inventor David Bushnell A famous signature
Similarly, Elijah McCoy was an African American inventor who developed a revolutionary lubricant for steam engines. His product was so vastly superior to his competitors’ that when engineers went to buy it, they would insist on getting the “Real McCoy.”
While the United States is getting ready to hold the 2028 Olympics in Los Angeles and make it truly a spectacular show of the greatest sports in the world, the 1904 St. Louis Olympics were just the opposite. To say that the first time the Olympics were held on American soil was bizarre would be an understatement. In fact, 520 of the 650 athletes were from the United States, participating in
events such as Tug of War and a “Plunge for Distance” competition that required swimmers to jump into the water, remain motionless for a minute, and see how far they drifted. Gymnast George Eyser won six medals, three of them gold, in a single day. The crazy part about this feat was that he had just one leg – his other leg was a wooden stump.
Then came the brutal marathon, in which just 14 of the 32 competitors managed to finish the 24.85-mile run in 90-degree heat. The course had just two water stations, and officials in cars drove ahead of the runners, causing massive dust storms that led to severe respiratory issues for some of the athletes. The
race was originally won by Fred Lorz, who, after nine miles, got into a car for the next 11 miles. After the car broke down, he finished the race on foot. Just as the gold medal was about to be placed around his neck, someone pointed out that he had cheated. He claimed it was merely a joke. The real winner was Thomas Hicks, whose managers refused to give him water and instead gave him a potentially lethal cocktail that included strychnine and brandy. He had to be dragged over the finish line and was immediately rushed to the hospital. Other strange occurrences during the race included a South African runner who was chased a mile off course by feral dogs and a Cuban
mailman who arrived at the starting line in regular clothes and leather boots but still somehow finished fourth.
These are just some of the many colorful and improbable stories that have shaped America over the past 250 years. In future articles, we will explore more of these fascinating stories and forgotten figures from our country’s past.
Avi Heiligman is a weekly contributor to The Jewish Home. He welcomes your comments and suggestions for future columns and can be reached at aviheiligman@gmail.com.
The 1904 St. Louis Olympics Wilmer McLean’s house was the site of the start and the end of the Civil War
Uncle Sam wants you for the U.S. Army
The Baltimore Bagel Store That Changed A Life
WBy Rabbi Shraga Freedman
hen Rabbi Chaim Tropp, a menahel in Cincinnati, heard that the city’s first Rita’s Italian Ice had opened, he decided to visit with his family.
As they entered the store, Rabbi Tropp and his family met the owner, an African American woman in her forties who greeted them warmly and professionally.
Wanting to verify that the store was indeed kosher certified, they respectfully asked to see the certification.
“It’s right over here,” she said proudly. “We’re very happy to be certified. We very much want to accommodate the Jewish community.”
Curious about her enthusiasm, Rabbi Tropp asked what made the certification so meaningful to her.
Her answer surprised them.
She explained that she had grown up in a rough neighborhood in Baltimore. As
a teenager, her first job was working for a Jewish couple, Yaakov and Chava Drebin, who owned a kosher bagel store in Baltimore called Goldberg’s New York Bagels.
The experience left a lasting impression on her.
She recalled that every time she looked at her paycheck, there seemed to be a little more money than expected. Without her asking for a raise, the owners would occasionally increase her pay as a way of showing appreciation for her hard work.
More than the money itself, she remembered the respect, kindness, and dignity with which they treated her.
Years later, those memories remained vivid.
The positive experience not only shaped her view of the Jewish community, but seemed to play a meaningful role in her own personal growth and success. Being trusted, respected, and valued at a young
age gave her confidence and motivation as she charted her future.
From humble beginnings in Baltimore, she went on to build a successful career in corporate America, later serving as a chief financial officer for a nonprofit organization. Today, she is opening three Rita’s locations throughout the Cincinnati area.
Now, as the owner of Cincinnati’s first Rita’s location, she considers it a privilege to ensure that her business is kosher certified and welcoming to Jewish customers.
As Rabbi Tropp listened to her story, he was struck by how simple acts of menschlichkeit performed years earlier by a Jewish couple in Baltimore continued to bear fruit decades later.
The kindness they had shown a young employee had not been forgotten.
Their willingness to recognize her efforts, treat her with dignity, and make her feel valued helped shape the trajec-
tory of a young woman’s life and created a lasting Kiddush Hashem that crossed generations and communities.
(This story should be a zechus for a refuah sheleima for Esther Yael bas Batsheva. Please have her in mind in your tefilos.)
Rabbi Shraga Freedman is the author of Sefer Mekadshei Shemecha, Living Kiddush Hashem, and A Life Worth Living.
Email LivingKiddushHashem@ gmail.com for a free sefer. Visit LivingKiddushHashem.org for more resources
Living Kiddush Hashem was founded with the goal of imbuing every Jew with a powerful sense of mission — the mission to be mekadeish Sheim Shamayim in his or her own unique way. We strive to accomplish this by raising awareness of the paramount importance of the mitzvah of Kiddush Hashem and its centrality in everything we do.
Sparks of Light
Honoring Without a Bracha
This Sunday is Father’s Day and also marks the official start of summer. Of course, every day should be Mother’s Day and Father’s Day, but there is value in carving out a moment to give ourselves a chizuk on just how central kibbud av va’eim is to who we are.
Here is a fascinating question. We make a bracha before nearly every mitzvah we perform. Before we eat matzah or before we shake a lulav, we pause and say, “Baruch Atah Hashem Elokeinu Melech ha’olam asher kidshanu b’mitzvosav…” So why is it that when my father asks me to bring him a cup of water, and I do it, fulfilling the Torah mitzvah of kibbud av, I do not say a bracha first? Almost every mitzvah in the Torah has a bracha attached to it. Why not this one?
The Rashba raises this exact question. His answer is that there is a category of mitzvos that depend on another person’s cooperation, and kibbud av va’eim falls into that category. Think of tzedakah. You approach a poor man with a donation, and he looks at it and says, “This is not enough. I will not accept it.” If you had already made a bracha, that bracha would now be a bracha l’vatala, a blessing said in vain, because the mitzvah never actually happened. The same is true of mishloach manos and other mitzvos that require a recipient to receive what you are giving. You can prepare a beautiful mishloach manos for someone, and they can decline it, perhaps because they are allergic to your peanut-butter-themed present. Kibbud av va’eim works the same way. You bring your father a cup of water, and he says, “This is not what I wanted.” The act never accomplished its intended mitzvah, and the bracha you said a moment earlier would have been said for nothing.
The Teshuvos Binyamin Ze’ev offers
By Rabbi Benny Berlin
a different approach entirely. Every bracha we say on a mitzvah includes the words “asher kidshanu b’mitzvosav, Who has sanctified us through His commandments.” That phrase is telling us that this particular mitzvah is part of
There is a third approach, one that comes from Rav Hai Gaon, as quoted by the Ran at the end of Pesachim, and it points in an entirely different direction.
The Ran asks why we do not make a bracha before Hallel at the Seder when we
Kibbud av va’eim is not meant to make your parents into a lulav and esrog.
what makes us into a holy nation. But kibbud av va’eim is not unique to Jews. Non-Jews honor their parents too. So does hashavas aveidah , returning a lost object, which is something decent people of every nation practice. These mitzvos express values that are not uniquely Jewish, and therefore do not fit as naturally with the language of asher kidshanu b’mitzvosav.
make brachos on nearly everything else that night. Rav Hai Gaon answers that Hallel is shirah, song, not kriyah, recitation, and the two are fundamentally different categories. The Rav, Rabbi Joseph B. Soloveitchik, develops this idea beautifully. Most of the time when we say Hallel, on Rosh Chodesh or yom tov, we are fulfilling a chiyuv, an obligation. There is a command to say Hallel, and so we say a
bracha because a bracha announces that we are now discharging a duty.
But Hallel at the Seder is not like that. It comes after hours of telling the story of the Exodus, of discussing Hashem’s kindness, and of reliving our redemption around the table. By the time we reach Hallel, something has built up inside us that simply has to come out. It is not a chiyuv we are fulfilling. It is an authentic expression of gratitude. To place a formal bracha in front of that would be to turn a spontaneous outpouring into a ritual obligation, and that would undermine the very experience the Hallel is meant to create.
Perhaps the same is true of kibbud av va’eim . If I had to say a formal bracha every time I honored my father or mother, asher kidshanu b’mitzvosav, it would risk turning something that should well up naturally from the heart into a box to check. Kibbud av va’eim is not meant to make your parents into a lulav and esrog, a means through which you earn a mitzvah. The moment you place a structured bracha in front of it, you risk draining it of exactly what makes it such a special expression of honor.
Maybe that is the truest answer of all for this Father’s Day. Honoring our parents was never supposed to be a mitzvah we discharge, and certainly not one confined to a single Sunday in June. It is not a box to check or an obligation to complete. It is a feeling we are meant to carry with us every day. Perhaps that is why there is no bracha.
Some mitzvos begin with words. Kibbud av va’eim is meant to begin with gratitude.
Rabbi Benny Berlin is the rabbi of BACH Jewish Center in Long Beach, New York. For more information, visit, www.bachlongbeach.com.
Oh, How the Times Have Changed
What did things cost in 1973 when the Knicks last won the Finals and what do they cost today
You Gotta Be Kidding Me!
A Knicks fan and a Celtics fan stumble upon a genie who give them each three wishes, but the genie adds: “Well, whatever you wish for, I’ll give the other guy double.”
“That’s alright with me,” says the Knicks fan, and starts the ball rolling by wishing for a million dollars.
“Granted!” says the genie, “but the Celtics fan gets 2 million.”
“Fair enough. Now, I’d like a nice new Ferrari.”
“Done. But the Celtics fan gets two Ferraris.”
“Okay,” says the Knicks fan, “I’d like to donate a kidney.”
Riddle Me This
I can fill an arena without taking up a seat. I can disappear in seconds after one missed shot.
The longer a championship drought lasts, the stronger I often become. What am I? Answer: Hope
So You Are Really Such a Big Knicks Fan, Huh?
Okay, so you cried after the Knicks won the Finals on Saturday night. Were they crocodile tears or are you really a lifelong Knicks fan? Answer these questions, and we will find out.
1. Who was selected by the Knicks with the No. 1 overall pick in the 1985 NBA Draft?
a. Charles Oakley
b. Mark Jackson
c. Patrick Ewing
d. Xavier McDaniel
2. Which legendary coach led the Knicks to both of their NBA championships in 1970 and 1973?
a. Rick Pitino
b. Red Holzman
c. Hubie Brown
d. Willis Reed
3. Which player was nicknamed “The Pearl” after joining the Knicks in 1971 and helped lead the team to the 1973 NBA championship?
a. Walt Frazier
b. Earl Monroe
c. Richie Guerin
d. Bill Bradley
4. Which Knicks player famously dunked over Michael Jordan in the 1991 playoffs in a play simply known as “The Dunk”?
a. Charles Smith
b. Patrick Ewing
c. John Starks
d. Anthony Mason
5. Who hit the famous four-point play against the Pacers in Game 3 of the 1999 Eastern Conference Finals?
a. Chris Childs
b. Allan Houston
c. Larry Johnson
d. Marcus Camby
6. In 2012, Jeremy Lin was an undrafted guard from Harvard who slept on teammates’ couches before taking the NBA by storm in what became known as “Linsanity.” What was his breakout game?
a. When he scored 38 points against the Lakers while being guarded by Kobe Bryant
b. When he entered in garbage time and sunk four threepointers in a row
c. When he blocked 4 shots by Lebron James
d. When he hit a half-court buzzer shot to send the Knicks to the playoffs
7. Which Knicks player who spent 10 years with the team had a fight with Knicks owner James Dolan and is therefore banned from MSG (but he traveled to San Antonio to watch his beloved team win the Finals)?
a. Allan Houston
b. Latrell Spreawell
c. John Starks
d. Charles Oakley
9. In what year did Pat Riley become head coach of the New York Knicks?
a. 1988
b. 1991
c. 1993
d. 1997
10. Which player spent 15 seasons with the Knicks, holding the franchise record for being the longest lasting Knick?
a. Bill Bradley
b. Patrick Ewing
c. Walt Frazier
d. Charles Oakley
Answers:
Scorecard:
8. When Amar’e Stoudemire signed his $100 million contract with the Knicks in 2010, he became the franchise’s biggest free-agent acquisition in years. From which team did he join New York?
a. Pheonix Suns
b. Miami Heat
c. Dallas Mavericks
d. Atlanta Hawks
9-10 correct: You have a right to cry about the Knicks finally being champs again…but you should still go to your own wedding instead of the parade
4-8: Not bad, you are definitely a fan. But don’t ask your rav if you can get a Knicks tattoo.
0-3 correct: Instead of banning Oakley from the Garden, they should ban you! (But then again, you probably think the Garden is a place in your local park where they grow vegetables.)
Notable Quotes
“Say What?!”
If people had told me this was going to happen, I was like, man, you must be smoking some really good crack, because I thought this company is going to fail. I mean, I gave SpaceX less than a 10% chance of succeeding at all, to be clear. In fact, I told people this, I was like, we’re probably going to fail, but you know, we should give it a try.
– Elon Musk addressing SpaceX employees after the company went public last Friday
You know, while the other aerospace companies, they build good rockets and everything, they were simply not pursuing the technology that’s necessary to make life multi-planetary, to make Star Trek, to make the exciting science fiction futures that we’ve read about real. And that’s what SpaceX is all about – is to take the fiction out of science fiction and create an exciting, inspiring future for everyone.
- ibid.
I have nothing against Texas. I love Texas. I miss the Texas taxes.
- Knicks superstar Jalen Brunson during his post-game conference after winning the Finals in San Antonio, reflecting on the time that he spent in college in Texas
First of all, Mamdani is a socialist communist that I have zero respect for. He’s ruining a great city by allowing lawless activity to continue to run rampant on the streets.
- Homeland Security Secretary Markwayne Mullin responding to NYC Mayor Zohran Mamdani calling ICE evil
It doesn’t exist.
- Jerry Seinfeld responding to an agitator outside Madison Square Garden who repeatedly asked him to say “Free Palestine”
So many things have gone wrong: the layups that wasn’t with Charles Smith, the [Patrick] Ewings finger rolls, the Game 7s they didn’t come out on top. Time after time after time… And to be in attendance witnessing the end of a 53-year drought as born in The Bronx, raised in Hollis, Queens, New York City. I’ve been a New York fan all my life, I never thought I’d see it.
- ESPN host Stephen A. Smith
Hunter Biden says he’s really impressed by New York’s Mayor Mamdani. I guess that makes it official: Hunter’s on drugs again.
– Greg Gutfeld
When I hugged Patrick [Ewing], it was like he finally was able to exhale and see a trophy in a Knicks jersey.
- Knicks player Karl-Anthony Towns talking about what the victory in San Antonio meant to retired Knicks center Patrick Ewing, who was there to watch it
To finally be able to see that [Championship trophy] in [Patrick Ewing’s] hands and not in Michael Jordan’s and all these other people’s hands, I mean, there was just so much healing that I was stunned.
- ibid.
What makes that even more unsettling is that this man, our first trillionaire, the richest man in the world, is also one of the weirdest people we’ve ever seen on this planet.
- Late night host Jimmy Kimmel talking about Elon Musk upon SpaceX going public
This obscenely wealthy weirdo has the ability and means to blow up the moon if he chooses and also to put a lot of other people’s money in his pockets.
- ibid.
The most envious, Marxist, redistributive person in the world isn’t the guy busting his [chops] to frame a house, or the guy grinding out DoorDash… It’s the smug guy worth 7 or 8 figures staring at a trillionaire he considers socially beneath him.
- One commenter on X, responding to Kimmel’s statements
Turns out talk isn’t as valuable to society as making cars and reusable rockets.
- Another X response
I’ve had letters from the IRS that were funnier than Kimmel.
- ibid.
These dopes [like Jimmy Kimmel] picture Elon diving into a vat of gold coins like Scrooge McDuck. But Elon doesn’t just have hundreds of billions lying around. An estimated 800 billion of his fortune is tied up in SpaceX alone. It’s not cash. It’s capital for building rockets, cars, satellites – you know, all the stuff Dems think appear from a magic lamp. And even if he decided ever to cash out, his companies would collapse and ruin hundreds of thousands of lives. So his company runs not to his benefit, but to theirs. He can’t take the money and run. Where could he go? He doesn’t own a home.
- Greg Gutfeld
Dems have always been too lazy to learn economics. They prefer the soft scientist sciences like puppy pronouns and is my cat racist.
-ibid.
Dating Dialogue What Would You Do If…
Moderated by Jennifer Mann, LCSW of The Navidaters
Dear Navidaters,
Dear Navidaters,
Thank you for the insightful advice you provide each week to those navigating the dating world. I have a question of my own to which I was hoping you could provide your perspective.
To provide you with context, I am a 26-year-old-male attending law school in New York. I am frum and attended yeshiva and Beis Medrash. I have been dating for the past two years, but unfortunately, I have yet to find my bashert. The challenge I have encountered is that I often enjoy the company of the young women I date, but I find that most of them usually decline to move forward past the second date. I am unsure as to why this keeps happening. I am more of a quiet, reserved person, and I am wondering if perhaps I am not presenting the full extent of my personality on dates.
Can you offer any advice on how I can better present my authentic self and help a potential match get to know me more fully in the early stages of dating? More specifically, how can I create enough of a connection and interest on the first few dates that a young woman will want to continue getting to know me and give the relationship an opportunity to develop?
Thank you,
Shmuel*
Disclaimer: This column is not intended to diagnose or otherwise conclude resolutions to any questions. Our intention is not to offer any definitive conclusions to any particular question, rather offer areas of exploration for the author and reader. Due to the nature of the column receiving only a short snapshot of an issue, without the benefit of an actual discussion, the panel’s role is to offer a range of possibilities. We hope to open up meaningful dialogue and individual exploration.
The Panel
Dear Readers,
We want to offer YOU an opportunity to be part of the discussion! Please email us at MichelleMondShadchan@gmail.com, subject line “reader’s response,” if you would like to participate in the new “A Reader’s Response” columnist spot. We will send you a question and publish your answer in an upcoming Navidaters edition.
If you have a question you would like the Navidaters to answer, please reach out to this email as well.
Looking forward!
Michelle, the “Shadchan”
The Rebbetzin
Rebbetzin Lisa Babich 5th Ave Synagogue
sure it’s not easy to go on dates only to find that they keep ending in a way you weren’t hoping for. It’s difficult to know exactly why the girls are declining to continue, and it’s often hard to predict without direct feedback. You mentioned
unless you receive more concrete information.
Two suggestions come to mind. First, it may be worthwhile to ask the shadchanim directly if they can provide any feedback about why the girl said no. If you begin to notice a pattern in the responses, you may gain some useful insight into an area that can be worked on. Second, once you have a clearer understanding of what may be going on, it could be helpful to work with a dating coach. There are many excellent coaches, both men and women, who help singles navigate the dating process, present themselves in the best possible way, and make thoughtful decisions along the way.
I know that the shidduch system and dating process can be challenging. I wish you much hatzlachah on your journey to finding the right person!
The Shadchan
Michelle Mond
Hi Shmuel,
Thank you so much for your question! There are a few key things a guy must do before starting to date in order to make the most of their dates.
1) Presentation
Make sure your car is clean and smells good. Make sure you are well groomed and dressed well. Nails should be cut, and your hair combed. Take a shower beforehand and make sure you have updated clothes/shoes/accessories.
2) Conversation
Even though you consider yourself quiet, you need to come prepared with
plenty of conversation topics. Think about topics that interest you and that may interest her. Think ahead about questions you are curious about the girl you are dating. Make sure the conversation is a healthy back-and-forth. Practice active listening – it is a very important skill!
3) Proper planning
Make sure you go into the date with a nice solid plan of where you plan on taking her. Make sure there’s a spot where you can offer to buy her a drink. Scout out the parking situation beforehand so you don’t end up with any unexpected surprises.
I would also recommend you do a “mock date” with a sister or someone close to you. It is important to get proper feedback about how you are coming across on dates. Without proper feedback, there is no way for you to actually know what you could do differently. And finally, make sure that what you’re looking for and who you want to date actually matches who you are personally. I find that the most frustrated singles are the ones who are looking for, and only saying yes to, someone way out of their league. In these cases, when a guy actually does get a date with the kind of girl that he wants, it tends to end very quickly. Being realistic about who you are and who you will attract is important. Think about whether there are things you can do to make yourself a more attractive candidate. Whether it be socially, professionally, or physically, I urge you to work on those things in great depth before pursuing someone out of your league which will just leave you feeling frustrated and burnt out by rejection.
The Zaidy
Dr. Jeffrey Galler
You are posing a really good question, because on paper you come across as a very desirable date. You have a fine, yeshiva background, are entering a respectable profession, are obviously
intelligent, and exhibit excellent communication skills.
So, what’s the problem here?
What is NOT the problem?
Clearly, there is nothing in your personal or family background that is causing girls to automatically reject the idea of dating you. If there were such issues, girls would not agree to date you in the first place.
Therefore, the fact that they accept dates with you, but subsequently don’t wish to continue dating you, suggests that the problem probably lies elsewhere.
What are the “Top Ten Reasons for the Girl to Decline Date #3”?
Just for fun, I asked some local shadchanim for funny, or sad, actual occurrences that caused girls to refuse additional dates. Here’s what I came up with:
1. The last time he cleaned his car was when Barack Obama was president.
2. He drives like he is competing in the Indianapolis 500 and thinks that red lights and STOP signs are merely helpful suggestions.
3. He is a bit overeager, and on Date #2, insists on discussing what they should name their eldest child.
4. Before the date, he tells the shadchan that he likes it when the girl wears high heels and then takes his date for a walk in Central Park.
5. He wears a suit and tie for a date to a Yankees game. He wears Bermuda shorts and sandals for a date at the Metropolitan Opera.
6. He spends the majority of the date discussing why he feels that the 13th president, Millard Fillmore, is sadly underrated by historians.
7. He brings along his pet dog and feeds it from his plate in the restaurant.
8. He talks nonstop about his mother.
9. He discusses all the medications that he’s taking for his stomach issues.
10. He suggests that rather than order two regular Diet Cokes, it would be more economical to share one extra-large Diet Coke.
Yes, I know that all of those exam-
ples are exaggerated for comic effect. I was just having fun, and I am certainly not suggesting that they are at all relevant to you. I was merely trying to lighten the mood.
In reality, your issue does deserve to be taken seriously and addressed appropriately.
What can you do about it?
Here are some suggestions:
1. It might be worthwhile to respectfully but persistently request feedback from the shadchanim you have dealt with and try to uncover any problems that you might be unaware of.
2. It might be worthwhile to consult with a professional dating coach.
3. THIS MIGHT BE A KEY PROBLEM: Sometimes, the traits we view as “quiet and reserved” can inadvertently be perceived as disinterested, distant, or difficult to get to know. Ask a trusted friend, mentor, Rebbe, or married couple who know you well whether you come across differently than you realize.
4. Dressing appropriately, paying attention to personal hygiene, keeping the date enjoyable, not dominating the conversation, and showing genuine interest in what your date says are all very important.
My suspicion is that your challenge is not that you lack good qualities. Rather, it may be that those qualities are not becoming visible enough during the first two dates. Please consider some of my suggestions.
Please do not despair. There are so many single women looking for a decent, intelligent, sincere guy with a fine professional future. Good luck connecting.
Reader’s Response
Mrs. Esti Ackerman Shadchan
Hi Shmuel, You sound like a mature and thought-out young man. I can sense that you really want to discover what’s blocking you from moving past a first date, and that’s admirable. What I find
The most frustrated singles are the ones who are looking for, and only saying yes to, someone way out of their league.
that can be helpful to help encourage deeper and more meaningful conversations is sharing something interesting or insightful about yourself that will prompt conversation. Not necessarily something vulnerable as a first date might be too early, but, as my dating mentor once told me, a first date is like a Shabbos meal. Your date is your Shabbos guest. How does your Shabbos meal look? Is it quiet and everyone is with themselves, or are you sharing interesting ideas and discussions?
Without being too boring, are there aspects of your career that you can share with your date? Have you done anything exciting while in yeshiva/ summer? Sometimes, these openers can lead to exciting and stimulating discussions.
Another alternative to keep conversations going is bringing a game like Perfect Matches on the date. This can also be a way to get to know each other than just asking resume questions. Another thing I feel strongly about: no hotel lobby dates. Those are boring! The weather is nice – find a nice place to walk around, a coffee shop, ice cream shop, park, etc. The environment can also help you with flowing and interesting conversations, which in turn might encourage more dates (especially from the right one)!
I wish you much hatzlacha with your dating. Hashem should bless you that you find your zivug quickly and with clarity and someone who appreciates the depth and thoughtfulness that you have.
Pulling It All Together
The Navidaters
Dating and Relationship Coaches and Therapists
Dear Shmuel, I actually think you’re asking an excellent question.
Many people assume that dating success comes down to finding the right person. But there is another piece to the puzzle: allowing yourself to be found.
From your letter, I don’t hear someone who is socially awkward or doing anything terribly wrong. I hear someone who is thoughtful, quiet, and perhaps slower to reveal himself. There is absolutely nothing wrong with that. Some of the most wonderful people I know are reserved. They
don’t en- ter a room with fireworks. They unfold gradually.
The challenge is that dating doesn’t always give us unlimited time. After one or two dates, a young woman is often asking herself, “Do I feel excited enough and connected enough to continue exploring this?”
Notice that I didn’t say, “Am I ready to marry him?” The question in the early stages is much smaller. It is simply, “Am I curious to know more?”
Sometimes, reserved people unknow-
ingly answer questions but don’t really invite another person into their world. They discuss what they do, but not what they love. They talk about their schedule, but not what matters to them. They share facts but not themselves.
And there is a difference.
Telling someone you’re in law school is information. Telling someone what drew you to the law, what fascinates you, or what kind of difference you hope to make one day allows her to know you.
Saying you enjoy Shabbos is information. Sharing a favorite memory around your family’s Shabbos table allows her to experience you.
People are rarely drawn to perfection. They are drawn to humanity.
I would encourage you to think less about how to make a woman like you and
more about how to make it easy for her to know you.
Tell stories.
Laugh.
Express opinions.
Ask meaningful questions.
Reveal what excites you, what you value, and what kind of life you hope to build.
You don’t need to become louder or more outgoing. In fact, please don’t. The goal is not to perform. The goal is to become more visible.
And one final thought.
Perhaps instead of asking, “Why don’t they choose me?” ask yourself, “By the end of the second date, have I given them enough of myself to choose?”
Sincerely,
Jennifer Mann, LCSW
Jennifer Mann, LCSW, is a therapist and certified life coach in private practice in Cedarhurst, NY and via telehealth. She works with individuals, couples, and families, and is a part-time school social worker at Bnos Malka Academy. Her work centers on anxiety, relationships, life transitions, and narcissistic abuse. She integrates attachment-based therapy, cognitive behavioral approaches, and relational work, grounded in the belief that healing and growth emerge through honest, attuned, and meaningful human connection. To set up a consultation or to ask questions, please call 718-908-0512.
Mental Health Corner
Medication Adherence
By Rabbi Azriel Hauptman
We are fortunate to live in a period when medications are available for a wide variety of mental illnesses. In bygone eras, there were very few options for individuals who were dealing with mental illness. This led to the cre-
ation of institutions that offered a very low quality of life for their patients. Nowadays, the facts on the ground have dramatically changed. One can commonly manage his or her symptoms and remain a regular member of society.
There is one catch. Medications will typically not work unless the patient adheres to the prescribed regimen. Regarding mental illness in particular, studies show that more than half of the people who take psychiatric medications are not complying with their treatment plan. If we understand the nature of this puzzling phenomenon, we might be able to somewhat mitigate it and help more people in their mental health journey.
Some factors for non-adherence apply to all medications, and some factors are unique to mental illness. For example, forgetfulness and cost can be a factor with all medications. However, there are numerous factors that make medication adherence a unique challenge when dealing with mental health.
Knowledge about mental illnessOnce upon a time, most people did not believe in many mental illnesses. Someone with depression would be accused of just being lazy and should just get over it. Remnants of these types of beliefs linger on in our society, and the mental health patient might not fully believe that they have an illness. If so, in their mind, what is the point of medication?
Poor insight - Even if one fully embraces the fact that mental illness is a reality in other people, self-stigma might lead them to not have good insight regarding themselves. Once again, if you believe that you do not have an illness, what is the point of medication?
son. There can be multiple medications with nearly identical chemical properties, and one type will work for one person and another type for another. Sometimes, one can be very lucky and figure out the right medication and dosage on the first try, but it can be some time and trial and error until your doctor figures out what works for you. This may lead to skepticism about the benefits of the medication. “Who says I will ever find the right medication?” “What do I need this for?” Thoughts such as these can greatly impair one’s motivation to stick it out until the right medication is found.
Fears about addiction - Sometimes, one fears taking medications such as antidepressants out of apprehension that it may lead to an addiction. Indeed, there are medications that must be taken with great care out of a concern of the development of an addiction, but there are many medications that are not addictive at all. The basic rule of thumb is that if the effects are very slow and gradual over time, this is not the type of medication that leads to addictions. One can therefore take any one of a variety of slow-working antidepressant medications without fear of addiction.
Side effects - Side effects are a major issue with many medications. Even if one is under the careful guidance of a psychiatrist who is constantly tweaking the medication and its dosage to receive the greatest benefit with the least amount of side effects, there still might be some difficult side effects. What makes matters worse is that the side effects often start shortly after the commencement of the medication, but the beneficial effects of the medication may take weeks until they start taking effect. This can greatly discourage someone from sticking with their medication.
Skepticism about benefits - There are many types of medications, because not all medications work for every per-
Lack of therapy - Studies have shown that individuals who are seeing a therapist in addition to receiving medication have a much higher chance of adhering to their medication. When one checks in weekly with one’s therapist, there will often be a brief conversation about the medication. This alone makes it much easier to stick to the medication regimen.
In this article, we have outlined some of the hurdles that one may encounter when taking and adhering to psychiatric medications. We hope that the awareness of these hurdles will make it easier for individuals to overcome them since one cannot conquer one’s adversary unless one first understands them.
This
lief
School of Thought
By Etti Siegel
Dear Etti,
We are home for the summer. My four older children, ages 3 through 9, attend day camp and come home to me and the baby around 4:30 each afternoon. Then there are still hours to fill before bedtime, which doesn’t begin until about 8:00 in the summer. And don’t even get me started on the long Sundays!
We do not have screens of any kind in our home, and my husband and I intend to keep it that way. I am proud of our commitment, but I have to admit that I am also feeling overwhelmed. There are so many hours to fill, and I find myself worrying constantly about how to keep everyone occupied.
At the same time, I don’t want the summer to become one long stretch of entertainment. I would like my children to learn something, read a little, create a little, and use their minds. I don’t want them returning to school in September feeling like their brains have turned to mush.
How do parents survive a screen-free summer while keeping their children happy, busy, and learning?
- Worried Mom
Dear Worried Mom,
One of the biggest surprises of parenthood is that children spend most of the year counting down to summer vacation while parents spend much of the summer wondering how they are going to survive it.
Five children under ten, camp ending at 4:30, long summer evenings, endless Sundays, and no screens? That’s a lot of hours to fill.
The first thing I want to tell you is that I think your children are lucky.
Many parents tell me that they wish their children were more creative, more independent, more imaginative, and better able to entertain themselves. Those skills don’t develop from screens. They develop from having time to think, create, invent, negotiate, build, read, and sometimes even complain that they’re bored.
Some of the most creative children I know have grown up in screen-free homes. In fact, my own children are rais-
ing their families without screens, and I am constantly amazed by the games their children invent, the projects they create, the skits they make up, and the way they interact with one another.
Don’t worry about filling every minute.
That said, I understand your concern about “brain mush.” Summer should feel different from school, but that doesn’t mean learning has to stop.
Research consistently shows that reading is one of the best ways to prevent summer learning loss. Dr. Keith Kanner (https://www.fusionacademy.com/resources/keeping-kids-mentally-sharp-over-the-summer/) recommends making reading part of the family’s routine rather than presenting it as schoolwork. He has a point! Teachers I have spoken to find that children who read over the summer come back to school sharper than their counterparts.
One simple idea is to create a family reading time each evening. If the two-year-old is still awake, they can look through picture books. Older children can read independently. You can read to the younger children or sit with your own book. When reading becomes part of family life rather than an assignment, children are much more likely to embrace it. It is also a great way to wind down from a busy day.
Beyond reading, think about all the learning that naturally happens at home.
When children help make a shopping list, they are writing.
When they help prepare supper, they are measuring, estimating, following directions, and using math.
When they build with blocks, Magna-Tiles, cardboard boxes, or craft materials, they are solving problems and thinking creatively.
When they write letters, keep journals, create treasure maps, or put on a play for the family, they are practicing literacy skills without realizing it.
One of my daughters has each child sign up for a night
to plan supper. The child chooses the menu, helps make the shopping list, and then helps prepare the meal. The children love it, and it incorporates reading, writing, planning, math, and responsibility all at once. And gets them more individual attention with their mother, win-win!
Another daughter has a loose theme for each day after time playing outside. One afternoon might be baking. Another might be crafts. Another might be board games or backyard science experiments. The activity itself isn’t the point. The predictability is. Children are calmer when they know what to expect.
As for Sundays, I think many parents make the mistake of feeling they need to entertain children all day long. Instead, try creating a few anchor points throughout the day. Perhaps an outing in the morning, quiet time after lunch, and a family activity later in the afternoon. The outing doesn’t need to be expensive. Parks, nature walks, libraries, bike rides, visiting relatives, feeding ducks, picnics, or exploring a neighborhood you’ve never visited can become memorable family adventures.
And that’s really what summer is about.
Years from now, your children will remember making dinner with Mommy, reading books together on the couch, building forts in the living room, going on Sunday adventures, and staying outside later than usual.
So don’t worry about filling every minute.
Provide books, arts and craft supplies, sports equipment, opportunities, and a little structure. Then allow some room for boredom, imagination, and creativity to do their work. You may find that those long summer hours you’re worried about become some of your children’s best childhood memories.
Have fun!
- Etti * * *
Etti’s column will be going on vacation from TJH for the summer months – see you in September!
Mrs. Etti Siegel holds a MS in Teaching and Learning/Educational Leadership and brings sound teaching advice to her audiences culled from her over 35 years of teaching and administrative experience. Etti is an Adjunct at the College of Mount Saint Vincent/Sara Shenirer. She is a coach and educational consultant for Catapult Learning, FACTS Education Solutions, Brienza Academic Advantage, Yeled V’Yalda; is a sought-after mentor and workshop presenter around the country; and a popular presenter for Sayan (a teacher-mentoring program), Hidden Sparks, and the Consortium of Jewish Day Schools. She is a frequent contributor to Hamechanech magazine and The Journal for Jewish Day School Leaders and has a weekly column in The Jewish Home. She can be contacted for questions and comments at ettisiegel@gmail.com.
Health & F tness
Thirsty for Answers? Hydration and Electrolytes Explained
By Aliza Beer MS, RD, CDN
Water is one of the most important substances required for human survival. Every cell, tissue, and organ in the body depends on water to function properly. It helps regulate body temperature, transport nutrients, remove waste products, lubricate joints, and support digestion. As sports drinks and electrolyte products become increasingly popular, many people wonder whether water alone is enough for proper hydration and what role electrolytes play in maintaining fluid balance.
Hydration refers to maintaining an adequate balance of fluids within the body. The human body is composed of approximately 50 to 70 percent water, depending on factors such as age, gender, and body composition. Water is continuously lost through sweating, urination, breathing, and digestion. These losses must be replaced through fluids and foods to maintain normal physiological function.
Even mild dehydration can negatively affect both physical and mental perfor -
mance. A loss of only one to two percent of body weight from fluid depletion can lead to symptoms such as fatigue, headaches, difficulty concentrating, and reduced exercise performance. As dehydration becomes more severe, symptoms may progress to dizziness, rapid heart rate, low blood pressure, and heat-related illnesses. Fortunately, the body has an effective mechanism for regulating hydration through the sensation of thirst, which signals the need for fluid intake before significant dehydration occurs.
What are Electrolytes?
Electrolytes are minerals that carry an electrical charge when dissolved in body fluids such as blood and water within and around cells. These charged particles, called ions, help regulate many essential bodily functions, including fluid balance, hydration, nerve signaling, muscle contractions, heart function, and maintaining the body’s acid-base balance. While hydration is often thought of simply as drinking
enough water, proper hydration actually depends on having the right balance of both fluids and electrolytes.
When electrolytes are present in the correct amounts, they help move water into and out of cells where it is needed. Without adequate electrolytes, the body may struggle to properly distribute and utilize the water that is consumed. This is why electrolytes are often discussed alongside hydration. The major electrolytes include sodium, potassium, chloride, calcium, magnesium, phosphate, and bicarbonate.
Sodium is the primary electrolyte found outside the body’s cells and plays a major role in regulating fluid balance, blood volume, and blood pressure. It also helps transmit nerve signals and supports muscle contractions.
Potassium is the primary electrolyte found inside cells. It works closely with sodium to regulate fluid movement throughout the body and is important for muscle function, nerve signaling, and maintaining a normal heartbeat.
Calcium is best known for its role in bone health, but it also functions as an electrolyte. It is involved in muscle contractions, nerve communication, blood clotting, and hormone release.
Magnesium supports energy production, muscle relaxation, nerve function, and hundreds of biochemical reactions throughout the body. It works alongside calcium to support normal muscle function.
Chloride works with sodium to maintain fluid balance and blood pressure. It also helps maintain the body’s acid-base balance and is necessary for the production of stomach acid (hydrochloric acid), which aids digestion.
Phosphate contributes to bone and tooth formation and is a key component of ATP, the body’s primary energy source. It also helps support normal cell function.
Bicarbonate helps regulate the body’s acid-base balance by maintaining a stable pH level in the blood and tissues. When electrolyte levels become too
high or too low, normal body functions can be disrupted. Maintaining adequate fluid intake and consuming a balanced diet can help support healthy electrolyte levels and overall hydration.
How the Body Loses Electrolytes
Electrolytes are naturally lost throughout the day, primarily through urine and sweat. Under normal circumstances, these losses are relatively small and are easily replaced through a balanced diet. However, certain situations can significantly increase electrolyte losses. Prolonged exercise, especially in hot and humid conditions, can result in substantial sweating and increased sodium loss. Likewise, illnesses involving vomiting or diarrhea can rapidly deplete both fluids and electrolytes, increasing the risk of dehydration.
The amount of electrolytes lost through sweat varies considerably between individuals. Some people naturally lose more sodium than others, while factors such as exercise intensity, environmental temperature, humidity, and fitness level can further influence sweat losses. These differences help explain why some individuals may benefit from electrolyte replacement while others do not.
Water and Electrolyte Drinks
For the vast majority of healthy adults, electrolyte drinks are not necessary. Most people obtain adequate amounts of electrolytes through the foods they consume each day. Fruits, vegetables, dairy products, meats, nuts, seeds, and whole grains naturally provide the minerals needed to maintain electrolyte balance. Additionally, many processed foods contain sodium, making sodium deficiency uncommon in the general population.
A person who participates in moderate exercise, such as walking, recreational cycling, yoga, or a typical gym workout lasting less than an hour, can generally replace lost fluids simply by drinking water. The electrolytes lost during these activities are usually replenished through normal meals and snacks. As a result, purchasing expensive sports drinks for routine workouts often provides little additional benefit.
Why Water is the Best Choice
For most people, water remains the best choice for hydration. While beverages such as coffee, tea, juice, soda, and sports drinks all contain water, they may not be ideal hydration sources. Large amounts of caffeine can increase urine output and
may contribute to fluid losses in some individuals, particularly during hot weather or prolonged outdoor activities. In addition, beverages such as fruit juice, soda, specialty coffee drinks, and many sports drinks can provide substantial amounts of sugar and calories without promoting fullness. Since liquid calories are often less satisfying than calories from solid foods, individuals may consume these beverages in addition to their regular meals, which can contribute to excess calorie intake and weight gain over time.
Water, on the other hand, provides hydration without added calories and may help support healthy weight management by replacing higher-calorie beverages. Proper hydration may also help individuals better recognize thirst cues that can sometimes be mistaken for hunger, potentially reducing unnecessary snacking and calorie intake throughout the day.
deplete fluids and essential minerals, increasing the risk of dehydration. In these circumstances, oral rehydration solutions or electrolyte-containing beverages can help restore fluid balance more effectively than water alone.
The Marketing of Sports Drinks
The popularity of electrolyte beverages has grown significantly over the past two decades, fueled largely by marketing campaigns that associate these products with athletic performance and health. While sports drinks can serve a purpose for endurance athletes, they are often consumed by individuals who do not require them. Many traditional sports drinks contain substantial amounts of added sugar, providing calories that may not be necessary for people engaging in light or moderate activity.
Electrolytes are naturally lost throughout the day.
For individuals trying to lose weight or maintain a healthy weight, choosing water more often in place of calorie-containing beverages can be a simple and effective strategy. For everyday hydration, water is typically the simplest and most effective option.
When Electrolyte Drinks Can Be Helpful
Although electrolyte beverages are unnecessary for most individuals, there are situations where they may be beneficial. Endurance athletes participating in activities lasting longer than sixty to ninety minutes often experience significant sweat losses that can affect both hydration status and performance. Marathon runners, triathletes, long-distance cyclists, and competitive athletes training for extended periods may benefit from beverages that provide both fluids and electrolytes.
Electrolyte drinks can also be useful for individuals working in hot environments, such as construction workers, landscapers, firefighters, and agricultural workers. During prolonged exposure to heat, large amounts of sodium can be lost through sweat, making electrolyte replacement more important.
Another situation where electrolyte beverages may be beneficial is during illness. Vomiting and diarrhea can rapidly
also be found in calcium-set tofu, beans, and leafy green vegetables such as kale and collard greens. Magnesium is found in spinach, beans, whole grains, nuts, seeds, and fish such as salmon. Obtaining electrolytes from food allows individuals to receive vitamins, minerals, fiber, and other beneficial nutrients simultaneously.
In addition to providing electrolytes, many fruits and vegetables contribute to hydration because of their high-water content. Foods such as watermelon, strawberries, cantaloupe, oranges, cucumbers, lettuce, celery, tomatoes, and zucchini contain large amounts of water and can help support hydration, especially during the warmer summer months when fluid needs may increase.
Practical Recommendations for Staying Hydrated
For someone completing a twenty-minute walk or a short workout, the calories consumed from a sports drink may exceed the calories burned during exercise. Regular consumption of these beverages can contribute to excess calorie intake and potentially weight gain over time. Furthermore, some electrolyte products contain high levels of sodium that are unnecessary for individuals who are not experiencing significant sweat losses.
Can Food Provide Enough Electrolytes?
For most healthy individuals, a balanced diet provides all the electrolytes needed to maintain proper hydration and normal body function. Sodium is naturally found in foods such as meat, poultry, seafood, milk, and eggs, but the largest source in most diets is processed foods, including breads, canned soups, deli meats, cheese, frozen meals, and salty snacks. Since table salt is composed of sodium and chloride, foods high in sodium are often good sources of chloride as well. Potassium is abundant in fruits and vegetables, particularly potatoes, sweet potatoes, bananas, oranges, avocados, tomatoes, and leafy greens. It is also found in dairy products, beans, fish, poultry, and meat. Calcium is commonly obtained from milk, yogurt, and cheese but can
Maintaining proper hydration does not need to be complicated. For most healthy adults, drinking water consistently throughout the day, consuming a balanced diet, and including water-rich fruits and vegetables is sufficient. General recommendations suggest that women consume approximately 2.7 liters (91 ounces) of total water daily and men consume approximately 3.7 liters (125 ounces) daily, with some of this fluid coming from foods. Another commonly used guideline is 30 to 35 milliliters of fluid per kilogram of body weight per day, although individual needs vary.
Hydration requirements are not the same for everyone and may increase during hot weather, exercise, illness, pregnancy, or other situations that increase fluid losses. Paying attention to thirst, monitoring urine color, and increasing fluid intake during periods of increased activity can help prevent dehydration. During extended exercise or illness involving significant fluid loss, electrolyte-containing beverages may be appropriate, but they should be viewed as specialized tools rather than everyday necessities. For most healthy individuals, water, nutrient-dense foods, and a balanced diet provide all the hydration and electrolytes needed to support normal body function and overall health.
Aliza Beer is a registered dietitian with a master’s degree in nutrition. She has a private practice in Cedarhurst, NY. Patients’ success has been featured on the Dr. Oz show. Aliza can be reached at alizabeer@gmail.com, and you can follow her on Instagram at @alizabeer
Parenting Pearls Camp Preparations
By Sara Rayvych, MSEd
Schools are winding down, and kids are already picturing themselves in their summer schedules. While there are many options, the overwhelming majority of our community’s children will be spending the next two months in the various camps sprinkled throughout the area.
Like many parents, I attended day camp as a child. I went back year after year, eventually becoming a counselor myself and trying to provide the same amazing experience to my own campers. It was far more difficult to be a counselor than to be a camper, but I gained valuable experience and learned many lessons during that time.
As my mother worked at the camp, I also had the unique perspective that comes with being a “staff kid.” Staff kids are in the position of being able to see the inner workings of camp from the adult viewpoint, while also knowing if they get into trouble their parents will find out right away.
I had the opportunity to see the camp experience from many viewpoints and the ability to see some of the many ways kids can benefit from those two months. It’s a time that will create warm memories of the past while it can shape children for years into the future.
A Few Words On Camp
Camp is a change of pace. It’s an opportunity for kids to spend much-needed time outdoors and be active within a structured program. Even while maintaining structure, the tone is still kept relaxed and fun. The campers have the chance to unwind after a busy year and recharge before the next one.
Camps provide many activities that children would not otherwise be exposed to. Campers are given the chance to try something new and perhaps discover something they enjoy or uncover an unknown talent.
Children who struggle in school have the opportunity to succeed in the different
options that camp provides. The child who has trouble sitting still may flourish when sports are the main event. A child who finds reading challenging may be fantastic at crafts. The presence of a counselor also helps ensure that campers are not only in the correct location, but that children are learning new things and improving their interpersonal skills.
Personal Items
When going to camp, everything needs to be labeled. As a former camp counselor, I can almost guarantee that otherwise someone will come home wearing the wrong underpants. Underwear and socks mostly look similar. There is only so much variety to skirts and shorts. In addition, many families shop in the same stores and will purchase the same items.
Little kids, in particular, can’t recognize their own items. With 20 pairs of little shoes thrown into a corner, they won’t know which is theirs. Camp staff has so much going on just keeping track of their precious charges that they don’t have the opportunity to notice who was wearing the striped shirt and who wore the solid. Many parents can’t remember what their own child is wearing today – the staff certainly can’t be expected to remember.
The need to label everything includes water bottles, sunscreen, yarmulkes and any item that comes in their bags (including the bag itself) or is worn on their body. If it leaves your house, it needs to have a name on it.
Even items that are labeled are not guaranteed to come home. Please do not send anything that is expensive or would be upsetting to lose. The kids are busy with sports, crafts and other activities. Nobody is paying attention to where an item is being (mis)placed. This includes shoes, toys and jewelry.
Rules and Expectations
Camps send out guidelines to assist
parents in knowing what they should and should not send with their child. The list will include a dress code and what is considered appropriate attire for their institution. Additionally, many camps will have separate expectations for how children should dress for specific activities, for example, requiring less casual clothes for davening and cover-ups or rash guards for swimming. It is prudent to become familiar with these guidelines before spending money on a wardrobe your child will be unable to wear.
Among these rules, many camps will restrict certain toys or electronic items. Please read these instructions carefully. There are generally sound reasons why these items are banned. Perhaps they can cause jealousy between campers or put pressure on the staff to ensure those items won’t become damaged. Sometimes, it’s because the item detracts from the camp environment. We don’t want our youngsters to be glued to the latest fad gadget instead of learning a new team sport. It detracts from the fun and camp experience parents are paying so much for. This is the time for kids to run around all day, have fun with their bunk, and learn the skills that only camp can teach. We don’t want to inadvertently deny them this opportunity.
Your child may want the forbidden item, may insist everyone has and will be bringing in the contraband, and that the staff doesn’t care about the rules anyway. Yes, kids want what they can’t have –adults are similar. This doesn’t change the existence of rules. As parents, we already know that “everyone has it” is rarely true. Additionally, children are rarely speaking for others – especially adults – when they say, “But they don’t mind anyway.” When kids say, “But they don’t mind,” they often
mean, “I want to do it and I don’t want you to ask someone else who may say no.”
New Experiences
Camp is a time for new experiences and new friends. They will be exposed to a variety of activities they may not normally do and children they have never met before. Their counselors may be unfamiliar, as will the rest of the staff.
Like adults, kids can be nervous facing the unknown. They may be scared or hesitant. It’s normal to have those feelings, and parents should validate their child’s feelings. Ultimately, children generally benefit from exposure to all these new things, and they will most likely have a blast, but we can still acknowledge how uncomfortable it can be to go into something new.
Many camps arrange for the counselors to call campers before the first day, and this is an excellent opportunity for the hesitant camper to “meet” their counselor from the comfort of their homes. The camp applications filled out months ago ask for bunking requests. Hopefully new campers will go into the summer knowing at least one child in their bunk as they make friends with the other children.
As we finish the last days of another school year, I want to wish our community’s children a wonderful end of one milestone as they begin the next one.
Sara Rayvych, MSEd, holds a master’s degree in general and special education. She has been homeschooling for over 15 years. Sara provides personalized parent mentoring services, addressing a variety of general and specific parenting concerns. She can be contacted at Sara.Rayvych@gmail.com with comments, questions or for private consultations.
Note:
Dassi, 7 & Yechiel, 5 & Moshe, 3
Layla Wise, 5
Aliza Soskil, 5
Ariella S., 5
N.A. Wiener
D., Y., T., M., & Y., Liebes
Atara, 8 & Talia, 6 Rosenberg
Motti, 5 & Chana, 2 Weberman
Atara Siegel, 8
Eliana, 6 & Leora, 1 Kushner
Note: Not all submission have been published. Keep sending in your artwork for another chance to be featured!
Yonatan Zaslow, 5.5
Zeesh Friedman, 6
B. Wiener
Dovie Rosenblatt, 6
LC, 7 Isaac Hakimi, 3
Leo “Brunson” Orner, 7
Tamar Berkowitz, 8
Nechama Markowitz, 6
Michal Soskil, 7
Dovid Dov
Ephraim Blashka, 4
Avi, 6 & Uri, 4 & Nati, 4
Shiffy Brody, 8
Shalom Simha
Dandy D., 6
Gavriel Dear, 6
Esti Cherniak, 7
Bella Strum, 5
Yehuda Sobel, 8
Aliza Wecker, 8
Ettel Chaya, 7 & Leora Bracha, 5
Shaya Dear
Atara Wildman, 11
Aviel Hakimi, 7
In The K tchen
Korean Noodles
Servings: 4
By Naomi Nachman
I am so excited to share that I will be heading to Japan and Korea to work on a kosher cruise with Kosher River Cruises, where I’ll be doing live cooking demonstrations — and this recipe is one I’ll be teaching on board! These super flavorful Korean noodles are incredibly easy to make, with a bold gochujang sauce and a kosher twist: surimi in place of the traditional fish cakes. You can skip the surimi too — either way, this dish is a keeper!
• ½ teaspoon Korean chili powder (Gochugaru), adjust to your spice preference
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1/3 cup water
Preparation
Make the sauce: In a small bowl, mix Korean chili paste, sugar, Korean chili powder, garlic, and water. Stir well to combine and set aside.
Cook the noodles: Prepare the noodles according to package directions, discarding the flavor packets. Drain and set aside.
Sauté the onion: Preheat a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat until well heated. Add 2 tablespoons canola oil and sauté the 1 medium onion, sliced until softened.
Cook the cabbage: Add1 bag shredded cabbage and stir-fry until it softens.
Add the noodles, surimi, and the prepared sauce. Toss and stir everything together until well coated.
Reduce the heat to low and add the four scallions, finely chopped. Stir quickly until everything is evenly coated. Plate and garnish with 1 teaspoon toasted sesame seeds.
Notes:
Kosher tip: Gochujang is available at Gourmet Glatt. Gochugaru can be found on Amazon.
Surimi: This is a great kosher substitute for the traditional fish cakes used in Korean tteokbokki-style noodle dishes. Feel free to omit entirely for a pareve vegetarian version.
Heat level: Gochujang brings a deep, fermented heat — adjust the amount to your spice preference. Add more Gochugaru for extra kick.
Naomi Nachman, the owner of The Aussie Gourmet, caters weekly and Shabbat/ Yom Tov meals for families and individuals within The Five Towns and neighboring communities, with a specialty in Pesach catering. Naomi is a contributing editor to this paper and also produces and hosts her own weekly radio show on the Nachum Segal Network stream called “A Table for Two with Naomi Nachman.” Naomi gives cooking presentations for organizations and private groups throughout the New York/New Jersey Metropolitan area. In addition, Naomi has been a guest host on the QVC TV network and has been featured in cookbooks, magazines as well as other media covering topics related to cuisine preparation and personal chefs. To obtain additional recipes, join The Aussie Gourmet on Facebook or visit Naomi’s blog. Naomi can be reached through her website, www.theaussiegourmet.com or at (516) 295-9669.
