Baltimore Jewish Home 9-3-26 by Baltimore Jewish Home

VISIT US ON THE WEB! WWW.THEBJH.COM Vol. 12 Issue #29 | September 3-9, 2026 | ‫ כ״ז אלול תשפ״ו‬- ‫כ״א‬

Baltimore Jewish Deaf Community Hosts Fourth Successful Event With Summer BBQ Bash

A Sweet Beginning To Torah Sheba’al Peh At Torah Institute

One Pair of Boots. One Conversation. One Incredible Ripple Effect.

Common Cents: Stop Overthinking and Start Index Fund Investing!

AT AG U DA H M A RY L A N D

FOR OUR

SHULS

SCHOOLS

FOR OUR

COMMUNITY MTA

C H A R I DY.C O M /AG U DA H M D

SEPTEMBER 7-8

$400 K

Over 5,800 Copies Printed | Over 11,500 Readers | www.thebjh.com

THE BALTIMORE JEWISH HOME

SEPTEMBER 3-9, 2026

Rides Fun Games

Hatzalah Hatzalah 2026 2026

Sno-Cones Food

Carnival Carnival

Sunday, Sep 6th 1 - 6 PM

Bnos Yisroel Campus 6300 Park Heights Ave

Sunday, September 6th 1:00 - 6:00 PM

Featuring Our Famous 7Mile Responder BBQ!

Bnos Yisroel Campus 6300 Park Heights Ave HatzalahBaltimore.org/carnival

All Day Ride Wristband: Online before 9/4 $20 At the Door $25

All Day Ride Wristband: Online before 9/4 $20 | At the Door $25

HatzalahBaltimore.org/Carnival

WWW.THEBJH.COM

PROUD EVENT SPONSORS

In memory of m58-Lonnie Borck ‫לזכר נשמת חיים ליב גדעון בן חנא ראובן ע״ה‬ ALL PROCEEDS BENEFIT THE ALVIN S. MINTZES HATZALAH OF BALTIMORE

THE BALTIMORE JEWISH HOME

SEPTEMBER 3-9, 2026

WWW.THEBJH.COM

THE BALTIMORE JEWISH HOME

SEPTEMBER 3-9, 2026

Content

Dear Readers,

COMMUNITY Around the Community

Greater Washington Minyanim

Community Calendar

Baltimore Minyanim Guide

JEWISH THOUGHT Rabbi Zvi Teichman

Torah Sparks

Daber Davar

Living Kiddush Hashem

PEOPLE 613 Seconds — Rabbi Ariel Sadwin

HUMOR & ENTERTAINMENT To Raise A Laugh

Centerfold

Notable Quotes

Kids Coloring Contest

LIFESTYLES

There is an old parable about an elderly man who had grown too frail to work. He spent his days sitting quietly while his son supported the family. Eventually, the son began to wonder what purpose his father still served. He built a wooden box, placed his father inside, and wheeled him toward the edge of a cliff. Just before he was about to throw him over, the father tapped on the box and said, “My son, you may want to save the box. Your children might need it for you one day.” It is a disturbing story, but perhaps that is why its message is so difficult to ignore. This Motzei Shabbos, as we begin Selichos, the Aron Kodesh will open and we will cry out together, “‫ְׁש ַַמע קֹוֵלֵ נּו‬.” ְ Among the words we say is a deeply personal request: “‫ ִּכִ ְכְ ֵלֹות‬,‫ַַאֵל ַַּת ְְׁשֵלִ יְכֵ נּו ֵלְ ֵעֵ ת ִזִ ְקנָ ה‬ ‫ִּכ ֵֵֹחנּו ַַאֵל ַַּתֵעַ ִֵזְֵבנּו‬,” “Do not cast us away in our old age; when our strength fails, do not forsake us.” We ask Hashem not to measure our worth by how strong, productive, or independent we may be. We daven that even when our abilities diminish, our lives will remain filled with purpose, dignity, love, and connection. But perhaps these words are more than a request. They are also a responsibility. We ask Hashem not to cast us aside, but how do we treat those whose strength has already begun to fade? Do we make time for our parents and grandparents? Do we listen patiently, preserve their dignity, and remind them that they remain an essential part of our lives? Our children absorb far more from what they see than

from what they are told. The respect they watch us show today may become the respect they show tomorrow. The box we build for someone else has a way of returning to our own doorstep. That is the work of Selichos. It is easy to enter the atmosphere of the Yamim Noraim, to be moved by the familiar niggunim, the open Aron Kodesh, and the sound of a tzibbur davening together. The harder task is allowing those words to change how we live once we leave shul. Teshuvah is not merely regretting what we have done. It is looking honestly at ourselves, recognizing where we have fallen short, and choosing one real way to behave differently. Sometimes the most meaningful change is not dramatic. It may simply be another phone call, a little more patience, or making someone feel needed rather than burdensome. In this week’s parshah, Nitzavim, the Torah reminds us that meaningful change is within our reach: “‫ ְְּב ִִפיָך ִּוֵבֵלְ ֵָב ְֵבָך ֵלַ ֵעֲ ֹׂשֹתֹו‬,‫ִּכִ י ָקרֹוֵב ֵַאֵלֶ יָך ַה ָָּד ֵָבר ְַמַאֹד‬.” It is very close to us, in our mouths, in our hearts, and within our ability to do. We do not need to transform everything at once. We can begin with the people closest to us and with one choice that brings greater kindness, respect, and sensitivity into our homes. As we ask Hashem not to forsake us at any stage of life, may we make certain that no one around us ever feels forgotten.

Inspiration Nation

Israel Today

Political Crossfire

Mental Health Corner

Forgotten Heroes

Dating

Common Cents

Health & Fitness

Parenting Pearls

In The Kitchen

CONTACT INFORMATION

IMPORTANT NUMBERS

Global News

Moshe Meir Rubin

Israel News

editor@baltimorejewishhome.com

National News

That’s Odd

Police & Fire 911 Hatzalah 410-358-0000 Shomrim 410-358-9999 NWCP 410-664-6927 Chaverim 410-486-9000 Misaskim 443-265-2300 Chesed Fund 410-340-1000

GET THE BJH DELIVERED TO YOUR MAILBOX!

Scan QR code and fill out the form on the website.

NEWS

For ad submissions please email ads@baltimorejewishhome.com

443-990-1941 | www.thebjh.com

PUBLISHER

Eliana Woodland

AMF Creative

Yitzy Halpern

Aaron Menachem Sarah Fried

LAYOUT

MANAGING EDITOR

Michael Czermak

ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE

DESIGN

COPY EDITORS

Have a peaceful Shabbos, Aaron M. Friedman

SEND US YOUR NEWS!

Send us your: community events, articles & photos, and mazal tovs to editor@baltimorejewishhome.com to be featured in coming editions!

The Baltimore Jewish Home is an independent bi-weekly newspaper. All opinions expressed by the journalists, contributors and/or advertisers printed and/or quoted herein are solely their opinions and do not reflect the opinions of BALTIMORE JEWISH HOME, their parent company or affiliates, and may have been previously disseminated by them on television, radio, Internet or another medium. The Baltimore Jewish Home is not responsible for typographical errors, or for the kashrus of any product or business advertised within. The BJH contains words of Torah. Please treat accordingly.

V 5

THE BALTIMORE JEWISH HOME

SOMEDAY YOU'LL SEE

WHO HE BECAME. IT BEGAN HERE.

SEPTEMBER 3-9, 2026

A love of learning. A strength of character. A purposful future.

WWW.THEBJH.COM

LEARN MORE levbaltimore.com 443.450.6782 info@levbaltimore.com

The person your child becomes is shaped by the experiences they have today. At Lev Hatorah, every lesson, every relationship, and every challenge is an opportunity to build confidence, character, and a lifelong love of learning. Beacuse the greatest measure of an education isn't what a child knows, it's who they become.

NOW ENROLLING Now Accepting Applications for Fall 2026 SCAN ME

WWW.THEBJH.COM

THE BALTIMORE JEWISH HOME

SEPTEMBER 3-9, 2026

Around the Community

Baltimore Jewish Deaf Community Hosts Fourth Successful Event With Summer BBQ Bash By: Yosef Gavert

he Baltimore Jewish Deaf Community (BJDC) did it again! On Sunday, August 30, BJDC hosted its Summer BBQ Bash at Rabbi and Yael Zelinger’s beautiful backyard in Baltimore, Maryland. This marked the fourth event organized by BJDC, and it was another tremendous success.

fries and roasted vegetables.

The BJDC organizing team consists of Tchia Kastor and her husband, Rabbi David Kastor, Leah Caplan, Shira Ziegler, and Yosef Gavert. Together, they put tremendous effort into creating a fun, welcoming, and memorable afternoon for everyone who attended.

Leah Caplan organized a variety of fun water activities. One game involved participants passing water balloons to one another until a balloon popped, eliminating the person holding it. In another game, participants ran back and forth between a tub of water and a table while using a wet sponge to squeeze water into an empty bottle. The goal was to fill the bottle first. Another activity involved blowing up a balloon inside a cup and attempting to move one cup into another. And, of course, the most exciting activity of all was the water balloon fight!

Tchia Kastor beautifully decorated the tables with red-and-white gingham tablecloths, cups, utensils, and other decorations to match the BBQ theme. She also prepared delicious salads, chopped tomatoes and onions for the burgers, and cooked French

Rabbi David Kastor, an advisor to the team, provided valuable guidance throughout the planning process. He shared helpful tips about food preparation, networking and reaching out to people, and working together as a strong and effective team. Shira Ziegler and Yosef Gavert helped transport seven heavy round tables and 43 chairs to the Zelinger backyard. Yossi Globman, who is not part of the BJDC organizing team, generously helped them carry the tables and chairs to the event. Shira Ziegler also gave a beautiful and meaningful speech during the event about the upcoming Jewish holidays of Rosh Hashanah, Yom Kippur, and Sukkot. She shared inspiring thoughts and reflections about these important holidays, adding a meaningful Jewish and spiritual element to the event. Yosef Gavert spent approximately four hours grilling hamburgers, hot dogs, boneless chicken thighs, and boneless chicken breasts for the guests. Through Yosef’s networking and outreach, approximately 39 people attended the event. What made the gathering especially meaningful was how far people traveled to be there. Guests came not only from Baltimore, but also from Frederick, Washington, D.C., and New York to take part in the celebration. The event brought together a wonderful mix of people from across the Jewish Deaf community, giving everyone an opportunity to meet new people, reconnect with old friends, socialize, and enjoy an afternoon together. Leeba Krigsman shared her thoughts about the event: “Hi, my name is Leeba. I’m here at the Baltimore Jewish Deaf Community Event for the BBQ, and it’s wow! Champ! Here we have fun water activities like a water balloon fight, delicious hot food, and also really delicious chocolate cake for my mother’s birthday! The people here are incredible because there are so many different kinds of people here. Some are hearing, some are deaf, and some are deaf and blind! So many varieties of Jewish

people here! I have so much fun when I come to their events! Thank you!” Shimmy Zonenberg also shared his experience: “Hi, my name is Shimmy Zonenberg. Every time I come to their event, it just gets better and better every time! More people, new faces and old faces, and the games just keep getting better! I really loved playing the water balloon fight! That’s my favorite so far! I never get bored of their events! They serve delicious food, have games, and, most importantly, socializing! I feel really connected to this event, meeting all kinds of people that sign. I am so looking forward to the next Baltimore Jewish Deaf Community event! Thank you!” As a special thank-you to Rabbi and Yael Zelinger for generously hosting BJDC and all of the attendees in their beautiful backyard, the BJDC organizing team purchased them a beautiful glass vase designed to look like a purse. The team presented them with this special gift as a token of appreciation for opening their home and helping make the Summer BBQ Bash such a wonderful and memorable event. The Summer BBQ Bash was another wonderful success for BJDC and its fourth event since the organization began. The growing attendance, along with the fact that people traveled from different cities to participate, demonstrates the strong interest in creating more opportunities for the Jewish Deaf community to connect. With food, games, laughter, and plenty of socializing, the Summer BBQ Bash was a memorable afternoon for everyone. The BJDC organizers are already looking forward to creating more opportunities for the community to come together, make new connections, and celebrate together.

THE BALTIMORE JEWISH HOME

TORAH SHAPES THE

MIND.

SEPTEMBER 3-9, 2026

OUR EDUCATORS SPEAK TO THE

HEART.

NOW ENROLLING Now Accepting Applications for Fall 2026 SCAN ME

WWW.THEBJH.COM

LEARN MORE levbaltimore.com 443.450.6782 info@levbaltimore.com

LEV HATORAH.

Around the Community

WWW.THEBJH.COM

THE BALTIMORE JEWISH HOME

SEPTEMBER 3-9, 2026

Heartstrings: An Evening Of Music, Presented By Let’s Connect!

here are evenings that entertain, and there are evenings that draw everyone in and become something larger than the program itself. Let’s Connect’s Heartstrings: An Evening of Music was very much the latter. What began as an evening featuring talented performers quickly became a shared musical and spiritual experience, with the audience not simply listening, but singing, harmonizing, and ultimately dancing together. Sharon Galkin served as the evening’s masterful MC, immediately putting the audience at ease with her warmth, humor, and heartfelt words. She also dedicated the evening’s kumzitz in memory of Dina Blaustein ‫ה״ע‬, bringing an added layer of meaning to what would become an especially moving conclusion to the program. The spiritual tone was set by Rebbetzin Chasida Teichman, whose poignant and evocative words of inspiration were accompanied by the soulful violin of Chani Wecker. The combination of spoken thought and music created a reflective atmosphere and opened the evening on a deeply meaningful note. Michelle Anflick followed with her original song, Be the One, exploring the possibilities and impact of friendship. Particularly during Elul, its message struck a chord, giving musical expression to the connections that often shape and strengthen our lives. The evening’s for-

mal program also included the music of Lisa Aronson Friedman and the Kol Zimrah Women’s Choir, whose repertoire included Brit Olam, Vehi She’amda, Harioo, and Mah Tovu. The choir’s performance was polished, heartfelt, and filled with the evident care that Lisa Aronson Friedman and the choir members bring to their music. But one of the most memorable moments came when the distinction between performers and audience began to disappear. Lisa Aronson Friedman divided the room according to vocal range and taught each section its own harmony, while members of the Kol Zimrah Women’s Choir joined the groups throughout the room to help guide the voices. In approximately fifteen minutes, something remarkable happened. What had begun as a room full of individuals singing became a layered, unified choir. Different sections carried different notes, the harmonies began to lock together, and the entire room could hear what they had created collectively. It captured exactly what Heartstrings was intended to be: not simply music performed for an audience, but music created together. The evening then moved naturally into a kumzitz led by Debby Lowenstein, Esther Strauss, and Dena Kameneski. Song sheets with both the music selections and words made it easy for women of varying levels of familiarity to participate, and the response exceeded expectations.

Voices filled the room as familiar melodies took on new energy when sung together, leaving participants on a genuine spiritual high. The final song, L’Shana Haba’ah B’Yerushalayim, brought the evening to a joyful close, as those who remained for the kumzitz joined together in an enthusiastic dance. It was a fitting finale to an evening built around connection: women who had arrived as an audience were now singing and dancing together. Heartstrings also reflected the many people working behind the scenes to create an evening that felt welcoming and seamless. Special thanks go to registration volunteers Debbie Beyer, Sara Arno, Joanne Phillips, and Lea Pinck, and to Penina Lewis and Sandy Klein for helping with cleanup. Their contributions, together with the enormous investment of time and talent by the evening’s presenters and musicians, made the program possible. The evening also capped a full summer of Let’s Connect programming, with events ranging from ceramics painting and situational awareness to evenings of inspiration, The Beauty

Edit, and a lively community Game Night. Each program offered a different way for women to learn, laugh, create, and connect, while continuing to strengthen the sense of community at the heart of Let’s Connect. As fall approaches, that same spirit continues through Let’s Connect’s Fall Circles, small-group gatherings built around shared interests, learning, conversation, creativity, and meaningful connection. With circles ranging from walking, hiking, mahjong, painting and journaling to book discussions, caregiving, needlecraft, and finding Hashem in everyday life, the coming season reflects the many different ways women can connect with one another. At its core, Heartstrings captured what Let’s Connect is all about: creating opportunities for women 50-plus to come together in ways that are warm, meaningful, engaging, and rooted in connection. On this evening, that could be heard in the harmonies, felt in the room, and seen in the women singing and dancing together. Heartstrings lived up to its name, creating an evening of music that reached well beyond performance and touched something much deeper.

Insulation is an investment that pays for itself with lower energy bills and increased home efficiency. Save Big on Energy Costs:

Comfort Year-Round:

Cut your heating and cooling bills by 30-50% and make your HVAC system work smarter, not harder.

Breathe Better:

Enjoy improved air quality with reduced drafts and outdoor pollutants, creating a healthier living environment.

INSTANT SAVINGS AUTOMATICALLY DEDUCTED, IT’S REALLY THAT SIMPLE!

Your Spray Foam Specialists MHIC# 138062

U PG R A DE YO U R H O M E TO DAY For a free quote call 443-455-1976 or visit winnerinsulation.com

Winner Insulation has partnered with BGE, PEPCO, and DelMarVa to get up to 75% of your insulation project covered through Empower MD rebates—start saving money f rom day one! Ask us about our 0% financing options!

WWW.THEBJH.COM

Did you know that 80% of heating and cooling loss escapes through your roof? Insulating your attic is the key to savings and comfort.

SEPTEMBER 3-9, 2026

Experience stable indoor temperatures, and reduce drafts, with warm winters and cool summers, when you upgrade to spray foam insulation in your attic.

THE BALTIMORE JEWISH HOME

WIN with

THE BALTIMORE JEWISH HOME

SEPTEMBER 3-9, 2026

Around the Community

A Meaningful Afternoon Of Comfort And Connection At L’Chaim Adult Day Center

articipants at the L’Chaim Adult Day Center on Seven Mile Lane enjoyed a uniquely uplifting and therapeutic experience during the monthly JCS Memory Café. Facilitated by Mrs. Amy Steinberg through Jewish Community Services (JCS), the gathering provided a warm, engaging environment designed to bring comfort, focus, and cheerful connection to all who attended. The program featured a special demonstration on the working world of certified therapy animals in partnership with Pets on Wheels. Dedicated volunteer handlers shared an insightful look into the rigorous training and discipline required for therapy work in premier medical and rehabilitative settings across Maryland.

For Reed and his mother, the visit carried an extra layer of meaning. With Reed soon to celebrate his Bar Mitzvah, the family embraced the opportunity to take part in this special act of chesed and community service, dedicating their time to bringing genuine simcha and connection to the L’Chaim participants in honor of this milestone. Through the kindness of the volunteers and the structured, calming presence of these specialized animals,

the afternoon proved to be both soothing and delightfully engaging for all in attendance.

The JCS Memory Café continues to meet regularly to offer enrichment, community, and support.

A Sweet Beginning To Torah Sheba’al Peh At Torah Institute

orah Institute’s third-grade boys celebrated the exciting beginning of their journey into Torah Sheba’al Peh with a special Haschalas Mishnayos program. The boys had the privilege of hearing inspiring words from S’gan Menahel, R’ Nosson Adlin, who spoke about the importance of Mesorah—the precious chain of Torah that has been passed down from generation to generation. His message helped the boys appreciate the significance of beginning their study of Mishnayos and becoming part of this timeless Mesorah. To mark this special milestone, each boy received his very own Mishna, along with a delicious donut

WWW.THEBJH.COM

The room was filled with gentle smiles and palpable relaxation as volunteers David, with his golden retrievers Harry and Bess Truman, and Jennifer, accompanied by her son Reed and doodle Spencer, engaged directly with the participants.

to sweeten the celebration. It was a meaningful and memorable way to

begin their journey of learning Torah Sheba’al Peh.

We look forward to continuing to see these boys Shteig!

Jewish Cemetery Association Of Baltimore Volunteers Participate In Cemetery Cleanup Day

olunteers with the Jewish Cemetery Association of Baltimore came together for a Cemetery Cleanup Day, dedicating their time and effort to maintaining and preserving local Jewish cemeteries. At Hebrew Friendship Cemetery, Steve Venick, Jeremy Diamond, Jeff Karlin, Fred Petersen, David Antwerpen, and Mendel Davis joined together for the cleanup effort. Additional volunteers spent the day working at the German Hill Road Cemetery.

These cleanup days are held several times throughout the year and include a variety of hands-on projects aimed at preserving the dignity and appearance of the cemeteries. Volunteers assist with general cleanup, cleaning headstones, and repairing and resetting headstones that have fallen over. The effort is part of the broader work of the Jewish Cemetery Association of Baltimore, whose mission is to provide for the ongoing, efficient, and effective care and leadership of Jewish cemeteries throughout the Baltimore area.

Maintaining these sacred grounds is an important communal responsibility and an enduring act of kavod hameis. Through its ongoing management and these volunteer cleanup days, the Association helps ensure that Baltimore’s

Jewish cemeteries and the resting places of generations past continue to be cared for with dignity and respect.

NEW SHORT STORIES

by Rabbi Shlomo Landau Sometimes the hand of Hashem is hidden. And sometimes it is impossible to miss.

RABBI PAYSACH KROHN’S AMAZING STORIES COME ALIVE!

New!

SEPTEMBER 3-9, 2026

In this third volume of the bestselling Flashes series, Rabbi Shlomo Landau once again presents astonishing true stories that reveal the remarkable precision of Divine Providence. These unforgettable accounts demonstrate that every detour, disappointment, chance encounter, and act of kindness is part of a Master Plan.

THE BALTIMORE JEWISH HOME

New!

Rabbi Paysach Krohn’s true stories of courage, kindness, and incredible hashgachah come alive with action, surprises, and nonstop inspiration in Amazing Maggid Stories — in Comics!

C ra s h

Cou

rse

Fallstaff Shopping Center 6830 Reisterstown Rd Baltimore Maryland 21215 Phone: (410) 358-2200

WWW.THEBJH.COM

adapted by B. Weingarten illustrated by Chana Min Hahar based on stories by Rabbi Paysach Krohn

Around the Community

THE BALTIMORE JEWISH HOME

SEPTEMBER 3-9, 2026

Klaff Sports Physical Therapy Captures The Crown As The JCNSL Wraps Up Another Incredible Season

t was a beautiful summer evening under the lights as another memorable season of the JCNSL – by Klaff Sports Physical Therapy came to a close. The Tidy Up fields were ready for championship action (thanks to the Baltimore Sports Cards Grounds Crew), as the Tripping Kosher Postseason reached its dramatic conclusion. From the first pitch of the season to the final out, the Mixed by Moses Umpiring crew kept the games running smoothly while the I Heart Remodeling team kept all teams well “equipmented.” But on this final night of the season, everyone had their eyes on the ultimate prize: the Premier Financial Trophy. Semifinal: Klaff Sports Physical Therapy 11, Clothier 9 The #1-seeded Klaff Sports Physical Therapy (KSPT) entered the Tripping Kosher Postseason with championship aspirations, but Team Clothier had no intention of making their path an easy one. Both teams came out flashing the leather, with Sammy “The Dancing Iguana” Sonnenberg turning the outfield into his personal no-fly zone. Sonnenberg made several diving catches as KSPT tried to keep Clothier’s bats quiet. But Clothier eventually broke through, putting three runs on the board in the third inning and building a 5-1 lead heading into the bottom of the fourth.

WWW.THEBJH.COM

That’s when KSPT woke up. Moishy “Snowplow” Stal ripped a clutch two-RBI double as KSPT plated three runs and suddenly had themselves a ballgame. The momentum carried into the fifth, when the bottom of the KSPT lineup decided it was time to take over. Hit after hit followed as KSPT exploded for six runs and turned the game on its head, grabbing an 11-6 lead. Uriel “Municipal Kugel” Young led the offensive attack with three hits. Clothier refused to go quietly, clawing back into the game and making things interesting down the stretch. But KSPT held on for an 11-9

victory, punching its ticket to the championship game. Championship: Klaff Sports Physical Therapy 17, Tov Pizza 8 Championship night had arrived, and it brought with it a rematch. Team Klaff Sports Physical Therapy, led by captain Moshe “Grizzly” Burr and sponsor Adam “Donut Grease” Klaff, squared off against Tov Pizza with the Premier Financial Trophy on the line. Tov Pizza wasted no time, scoring three runs in the top of the first. But KSPT answered immediately. With two outs, they strung together singles and walks and somehow turned the inning into a six-run rally. Tov Pizza answered with two more to make it 6-5, but KSPT’s offense was only getting started. Four more runs crossed in the second, highlighted by two-RBI hits from Sammy Sonnenberg and Shalom “Deputy Secretary of Urban Housing and Development” Stein. Then the defense took over. Danny “Rotisserie” Prero pitched a masterclass, keeping the dangerous Tov Pizza lineup from mounting the comeback it desperately needed. Uriel “Forever” Young turned an unassisted double play at second, while Stein made a tremendous play on a hard grounder at third and fired home to cut down a runner. Tzvi “Zevo” — whose nickname apparently required no assistance from the JCNSL 8th Note Band Editorial Department — was perfect at the plate, going 3-for-3 with a twoRBI hit in the third. Tov Pizza kept battling. Aron “The Bulgarian Waffle Iron” Meister made a spectacular diving stop at first that likely saved multiple runs, while Koby “The Tax-Deferred Annuity” Leder created havoc on the bases all night. But KSPT simply kept coming. Tzvi “Frontyard Hammock” Hefter and Moshe Burr each crushed twoRBI doubles in the fifth. Eli “ThreeDay Shipping” Kelemer crossed the plate three times, while Adam Klaff

reached base four times. And Hefter wasn’t finished. Behind the plate, he somehow made a ridiculous barehanded catch, adding one final defensive highlight to a night filled with them. It was exactly what championship teams are supposed to look like: contributions from everywhere. When the final out was recorded, the scoreboard told the story: Klaff Sports PT 17, Tov Pizza 8. And with that, Team Klaff Sports Physical Therapy was crowned the 2026 JCNSL Champion! That’s a Wrap on 2026! Another JCNSL summer is officially in the books. What began weeks ago with teams believing they had what it took to hoist the Premier Financial Trophy ended with Klaff Sports Physical Therapy standing alone at the top. From diving catches and late-inning rallies to questionable baserunning decisions,

inexplicable nicknames and the type of softball arguments that become considerably less important approximately 11 seconds after they end, the 2026 season once again delivered everything that makes the JCNSL special. Congratulations to captain Moshe Burr, sponsor Adam Klaff, and the entire Klaff Sports Physical Therapy squad on an incredible championship run, and congratulations to Tov Pizza on another outstanding season and championship appearance. Most importantly, thank you to all of the sponsors, players, captains, umpires, volunteers and everyone behind the scenes who make the league possible. The lights have been turned off. The bases have been packed away. The Premier Financial Trophy has found its new home. And somewhere in Baltimore, a JCNSL player is already explaining to his wife why his team definitely would have won the championship if they had just gotten one more hit with two outs in the fourth inning. Until next summer.

AN EVENING TO RECONNECT, REFLECT, AND LEAVE UPLIFTED.

WITH FEATURING GUEST

SUNDAY | SEPTEMBER 6TH | 7 PM GORDON CENTER

SEPTEMBER 3-9, 2026

Bracha Jaffe KELLIE

THE BALTIMORE JEWISH HOME

LEV ELUL The Tour

FT. ALIZA LOEB INSPIRATION BY

MRS. ESTI KIMCHE & MRS. AHUVA HEYMAN OPEN TO ALL WOMEN AND GIRLS IN THE BALTIMORE COMMUNITY

BROUGHT TO YOU BY:

PRODUCTIONS

IN COLLABORATION WITH:

SPONSORED BY:

TICKETS AT BRACHAJAFFE.COM/TOUR

5162169077

WWW.THEBJH.COM

MUSICALLY DIRECTED BY SHAI BACHAR

WWW.THEBJH.COM THE BALTIMORE JEWISH HOME

SEPTEMBER 3-9, 2026 14

THE BALTIMORE JEWISH HOME

Executive Director, Agudath Israel of Maryland & Mid-Atlantic Region BJH: What was the priority when you started? RS: Supporting our Jewish day schools was THE main focus.

BJH: Tell us a little about yourself and how you ended up leading Agudah Maryland. Rabbi Sadwin: I grew up in Silver Spring, and came to Baltimore in 1990 to attend Ner Yisroel, and where I have remained ever since (except for two years in Eretz Yisroel). In 1999 I married my wife, Pessi, whose family has been in Baltimore for generations.

In 2007, Rabbi Baruch Neuberger put in my name for consideration to lead a new regional Agudah office in Maryland. Where I was lacking in political experience, I was already quite familiar with achrayus and tzorchei tzibur. I was selected as founding director of Agudah Maryland in November 2007, and I’ve been here ever since. BJH: What exactly is Agudah Maryland’s role? RS: We are the address for government advocacy and communal affairs on behalf of the Orthodox Jewish communities of Maryland. Whether it involves schools, religious liberties,voting, or access to government programs, our job is to represent the community and help get things done.

Our first major legislative effort was a scholarship tax-credit proposal called BOAST. We repeatedly helped get it through the State Senate, but it always stalled in the House of Delegates and thus never became law. BJH: But that eventually helped lead to BOOST? RS: Exactly. Those years of advocacy helped lay the groundwork for BOOST, which was introduced in the state budget in 2016. BOOST provides scholarships to children from qualifying families to attend nonpublic schools. Although our community represents roughly 10% of Maryland’s nonpublic school population, we consistently receive approximately 30% of BOOST funding. That translates into roughly $3 million annually. BJH: And now there’s a major new development on the federal level? RS: Yes. After years of advocacy by Agudah and others, a federal scholarship tax credit was included in President Trump’s One Big Beautiful Bill in 2025. Beginning in 2027, taxpayers can receive a dollar-for-dollar federal tax credit of up to $1,700 for contributions to approved scholarship organizations, which can fund private school tuition. The potential for Jewish education is enormous, and we

BJH: What are the major areas Agudah Maryland focuses on today? RS: Schools remain at the core, and our efforts have helped expand funding and services for school infrastructure (school construction grants, textbook and technology, health and safety, etc) and transportation (MTA Route 92 buses), but the work has expanded tremendously. Security is a major priority these days. We work to obtain federal and state funding to ensure that our schools, shuls, and facilities are safe and secure. Another major area is Maryland 529, which since 2017 has included K-12 education. Through our leadership, the State Contribution Program incentivizing 529 investment has been a major source of funds to our community households. BJH: Agudah has also become increasingly involved with special needs families. RS: Absolutely. Our YahalomMD office, headed by Mrs. Meira Burkom, works closely with families and in collaboration with the various local special needs organizations, providing support programs/events and general guidance. Recently, we’ve been part of the effort to address state budget cuts to the Developmental Disabilities Administration, as those cuts directly affect services our families rely on every day. BJH: What does Agudah do that people might never hear about? RS: Issues involving virtually every aspect of Jewish life come to our office, even in some of the most sensitive areas.

It could be helping someone with a Shabbos accommodation issue at work, a shul dealing with a zoning issue, or working with the medical examiner to prevent an autopsy. We help people obtain passports and visas and we help families access programs like SNAP, Medicaid, WIC, and childcare vouchers. BJH: Who guides Agudah’s positions on these issues? RS: As the Agudah worldwide movement operates under the guidance of Gedolei Yisrael, locally we present policy and legislative issues to Baltimore’s Vaad HaRabbonim for their hadrachah. Our collaboration with rabbonim, askanim, and other organizations from across the entire community has allowed us B”H to operate so effectively. BJH: There’s an important misconception about how Agudah Maryland is funded. RS: Agudah Maryland is funded 100% locally. We are not funded by National Agudah. Our donors are our partners whether they give large sums or small monthly contributions. Everything we accomplish locally is possible because the local community supports this office. BJH: Why should someone support the upcoming campaign? RS: I sometimes describe Agudah Maryland as a community-wide utility. You may not think about it every day, but we virtually impact every school, shul, and household. Our campaign is Monday and Tuesday, September 7 and 8. We’re incredibly grateful to everyone who partners with us. Their support allows us to keep showing up, building relationships, advocating, and making sure the needs of our community are heard.

WWW.THEBJH.COM

My childhood was filled with observing how my parents (ybcl”c) were uniquely involved in serving the tzibur - shul, schools, and individuals alike, instilling in me the importance of taking responsibility when something needed to get done.

At the time, Maryland had one small program for nonpublic schools, a textbook loan program established through earlier efforts by Rabbi Herman Neuberger zt”l and Catholic leadership. We began building relationships in Annapolis and looking for additional opportunities.

are focused on making sure Governor Moore opts Maryland in so we can all benefit. (STAY TUNED FOR MORE ON THIS!)

SEPTEMBER 3-9, 2026

613 Seconds with Rabbi Ariel Sadwin

The Week In News

THE BALTIMORE JEWISH HOME

SEPTEMBER 3-9, 2026

The Week In News

Rent-a-Child in China

A growing number of young Chinese adults are offering their services as “shared children,” visiting seniors who live alone and providing something that can be difficult to find in an increasingly aging society: companionship. The workers, generally in their 20s and 30s, aren’t professional caregivers. Instead, they chat with elderly clients, accompany them to doctor’s appointments,

shacharis

said, pointing to low fertility as a greater concern than aging itself. The trend has also created pressure on the so-called “sandwich generation,” middle-aged adults caught between raising their own children and caring for elderly parents. Liu Cheng, founder of Time Bank in Suzhou, launched his company to provide “shared children” after seeing the difficulty families face balancing both responsibilities. “We have both elderly parents and young children to support,” Liu said. “A lot of the time, when we focus on taking care of the younger ones, we end up unable to look after the old.” Still, the arrangement has raised questions about safety and whether emotional care should become a commercial service in a culture where filial piety has traditionally placed responsibility for elderly parents squarely on their children. Critics warn that companions could gain access to sensitive documents and property information, while others note that many lack medical training. The companies say they screen and train workers. Time Bank also tries to

match clients and companions by gender and requires body cameras during visits, with permission, to document interactions. For now, the industry remains small, with providers struggling to convince seniors to open their homes to strangers. But as China grows older, the need for connection may only grow. Liu hopes to expand Time Bank from about 100 orders a month to 650. “We are envisioning a future where senior home care is as easy as ordering takeout,” he said.

Russian Forces Help Niger Junta Niger’s military government survived its most serious internal challenge since taking power in a 2023 coup after a group of renegade soldiers staged a mutiny in the capital over the weekend, prompting Russian forces to intervene. The confrontation began at Base 101, a strategic military facility at Niamey’s international airport, where mostly young soldiers reportedly seized several fellow

Greater Washington Weekday Minyanim Guide

6:15 am Young Israel Shomrai Emunah

M-F

Woodside Synagogue/Ahavas Torah

T, W, F

6:20 am Ohev Shalom Talmud Torah OLNEY

M, Th

Young Israel Ezras Israel of Potomac

T, W, F

8:00 am YGW (High School; School-Contingent) Young Israel Ezras Israel of Potomac

S-F S

6:25 am Southeast Hebrew Cong., Knesset Yehoshua M-F

7:05 am Kesher Israel

M, Th

Young Israel Shomrai Emunah (Sfardi)

6:30 am Beth Sholom Congregation

M-F

7:15 am Kemp Mill Synagogue

M, Th

8:05 am Ezras Israel Congregation of Rockville

M, Th

Beit Halevi (Sfardi)

M, T

T, W, F

8:15 am Ohr Hatorah

Chabad of Silver Spring

M-F

Ohev Shalom Talmud Torah OLNEY

T, W, F

Young Israel Shomrai Emunah

YGW

M, Th

6:35 am Ohr Hatorah

M, Th

6:40 am YGW

S, T, W, F

Magen David Sephardic Congregation 6:45 am Beit Halevi (Sfardi)

WWW.THEBJH.COM

help with smartphones and simply spend time with them. Advertisements on Chinese social media offer three-hour visits for roughly $29 to $88. At Happy Home, a startup in Tianjin, 28-year-old Sun Shuyang said many of the company’s clients are seniors whose children have moved to other cities for work. “They can regain a sense of vitality and feel more energetic,” Sun said of the elderly who spend time with younger companions. The unusual service reflects a much larger demographic challenge facing China. The country’s population is aging rapidly after decades of low birth rates, including the one-child policy that was in effect from 1979 to 2015. The World Health Organization projects that, by 2040, approximately 402 million Chinese citizens will be over 60 — about 28 percent of the population. More than half of elderly people were already living in “empty-nest” households in 2021, according to China’s National Committee on Aging. “We don’t have that many young people,” demographer Huang Wenzheng

M-Th 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 Yehoshua S Silver Spring Jewish Center 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

Kesher Israel Ohev Sholom Talmud Torah/The National Synagogue Ohr Hatorah 7:30 am Chabad of DC

M-F

Ezras Israel Congregation of Rockville

S, T, W, F

Kehilat Pardes / Berman Hebrew Academy

S-F

Silver Spring Jewish Center

M-F

Chabad of Potomac

M-F

JROC

M-F

Kemp Mill Synagogue

T, W, F

8:30 am Chabad of DC

Chabad of Potomac

S S

Young Israel Shomrai Emunah

JROC Ohev Sholom Talmud Torah/The National Synagogue Silver Spring Jewish Center

Young Israel Shomrai Emunah (Sfardi)

M-F

YGW (Summer Only)

S-F

7:45 am YGW (Yeshiva Session Only)

S-F

8:45 am Young Israel Shomrai Emunah

S-F

8:00 am Beth Sholom Congregation

9:00 am Chabad of Silver Spring

Kemp Mill Synagogue

Kesher Israel

Ohev Shalom Talmud Torah OLNEY

Southeast Hebrew Cong., Knesset Yehoshua M-F

Southeast Hebrew Cong., Knesset Yehoshua S Chabad of Upper Montgomery County

Woodside Synagogue/Ahavas Torah

POTOMAC Beth Sholom Congregation 11825 Seven Locks Rd. Potomac, MD 20854 Chabad of Potomac [Ari] 11621 Seven Locks Rd, Potomac, MD 20854 Young Israel Ezras Israel of Potomac 11618 Seven Locks Rd, Potomac, MD 20854

ROCKVILLE Kehilat Pardes / Berman Hebrew Academy 13300 Arctic Ave, Rockville, MD 20853 JROC 11304 Old Georgetown Rd, Rockville, MD 20852 Ezras Israel Congregation of Rockville Ring House TV Room

For edits or additions email ads@baltimorejewishhome.com

mincha

S S

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 9:15 pm Silver Spring Jewish Center 9:30 pm YGW 9:45 pm Ohr Hatorah 10:00 pm YGW

2:00 pm Silver Spring Jewish Center 2:10 pm YGW

S-F

2:45 pm YGW 3:00 pm YGW Middle School

S-Th

SILVER SPRING Beit Halevi [Sefardic] 1009 North Belgrade Rd., Silver Spring, MD 20902 Chabad of Silver Spring [Ari] 519 Lamberton Dr, Silver Spring, MD 20902 Kemp Mill Synagogue 11910 Kemp Mill Rd, Silver Spring, MD 20902 Ohr Hatorah 1009 Kersey Rd, Silver Spring, MD 20902 Silver Spring Jewish Center 1401 Arcola Ave, Silver Spring, MD 20902

Southeast Hebrew Congregation, Knesset Yehoshua 10900 Lockwood Dr, Silver Spring, MD 20901 Woodside Synagogue/Ahavas Torah 9001 Georgia Ave, Silver Spring, MD 20910 Yeshiva Gedola of Greater Washington (YGW) 1216 Arcola Ave, Silver Spring, MD 20902 Young Israel Shomrai Emunah (YISE) [Ashk + S] 1132 Arcola Ave, Silver Spring, MD 20902

M-Th School Days M-Th School Days

S-Th S-Th S-Th S-Th S-Th

WASHINGTON Chabad of DC [Ari] 2110 Leroy Pl. NW, Washington, DC 20008 Kesher Israel 2801 N Street, NW Washington, DC 20007 Ohev Sholom Talmud Torah/The National Synagogue 1600 Jonquil St NW, Washington, DC 20012

THE BALTIMORE JEWISH HOME

SEPTEMBER 3-9, 2026

WWW.THEBJH.COM

THE BALTIMORE JEWISH HOME

SEPTEMBER 3-9, 2026

The Week In News servicemen and held them hostage. Gunfire was also reported near the presidential palace, roughly seven miles away. The standoff lasted about 24 hours before Niger’s presidential guard, assisted by members of Russia’s Africa Corps, regained control, according to diplomats and regional analysts. Russia’s ambassador to Niger, Viktor Voropayev, said Nigerien officials requested Moscow’s assistance and that the mutineers were “neutralized, particularly thanks to the intervention” of the Africa Corps. Analysts said the rebellion presented a potentially serious threat to the junta, with the mutineers reportedly numerous and determined enough that the outcome remained uncertain until Russian personnel became involved. The episode underscores Moscow’s growing role in protecting military-led governments across Africa’s Sahel region. Russia’s Africa Corps, which operates under the Russian Defense Ministry,

replaced the Wagner mercenary organization as Moscow’s primary security force in the region. In May, Russian personnel similarly helped Mali’s military government withstand major attacks by jihadist and rebel groups. “Fighting jihadis comes as a second priority” for the Africa Corps, said Wassim Nasr, a senior research fellow at the Soufan Center. “The first priority is to sustain regimes, and they are succeeding in this.” Military governments in Niger, Mali and Burkina Faso have increasingly distanced themselves from longtime Western partners while building closer security relationships with Moscow. Estimates place the number of Russian personnel operating across the three countries at between 1,700 and 2,000. But Russia’s growing influence comes as the broader security situation across the Sahel continues to deteriorate. Niger has already faced two jihadist attacks on

Niamey’s airport this year. The latest unrest may deepen questions about just how independent the region’s military governments are becoming. The Timbuktu Institute for Peace Studies said Russia’s intervention highlights “the vulnerabilities of a regime whose stability increasingly relies on a Russian partnership,” raising questions about whether Niger’s push for greater sovereignty is instead creating a new dependence on Moscow.

A New King for Norway Norway’s new monarch, King Haakon VIII, paid an emotional tribute to his late father in his first national address since taking the throne, remembering King Harald as “such a good dad” and promising to carry forward his legacy in his own way. King Harald died on Friday at the age of 89 after more than three decades on the throne. His death immediately elevated his son Haakon under Norway’s constitutional monarchy. Speaking from the royal palace in a recorded televised address, Haakon recalled his father not only as king but as a warm and devoted parent. “My dear father, thank you for being such a good dad for Martha and I,” he said, referring to his sister, Princess Martha Louise. “I am going to miss him. I am going to miss his laughter. I am going to miss his good-natured way to meet people and situations.” The new king became visibly emotional when he noted that Saturday would have marked the 58th wedding anniversary of his parents, Harald and Queen Sonja. “Congratulations on your wedding anniversary, dear Mummy,” he said, his voice briefly faltering. Haakon also used the address to lay out the values he intends to emphasize during his reign, including democracy, equality and national unity. “We believe in a society built on the rule of law — where every individual has equal worth,” he said. “We believe in a Norway where there is room for everyone.” Haakon is expected to formally take his oath before parliament on Tuesday. Norway no longer holds coronations, which were abolished in 1908.

Thousands of Norwegians have gathered outside the royal palace to honor Harald, leaving flowers, cards, drawings and flags. Portraits of the late king have appeared across Oslo as flags throughout the country were lowered to half-mast. Many mourners remembered Harald for his emphasis on tolerance and inclusion. Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Stoere said Haakon appears to share one of his father’s defining qualities: an ability to bring people together. “He meant a lot to us immigrants,” said Veselina Vitanova, a teacher originally from Bulgaria. “We felt really very included. So, thanks to him, I feel so Norwegian.”

Chinese COSCO Gathering Intel

China’s state-owned shipping company COSCO is using commercial vessels equipped with covert technology to gather intelligence on military communications near the coastlines of countries including the United States, according to two senior Trump administration officials. The officials, who spoke anonymously because they were discussing classified U.S. assessments, said COSCO has maintained an intelligence-sharing relationship with Beijing for decades. According to the officials, specialized equipment aboard company ships can collect communications signals from military vessels and aircraft operating near Europe, North America and Asia. One official said the technology is designed to gather information about “military communications technologies and encryption developments.” The intelligence operation also reportedly gives China greater insight into heavily traveled shipping corridors and maritime routes that are significant for both global commerce and military operations. The officials described the systems aboard COSCO vessels as sophisticated signals-intelligence platforms rather than ordinary shipboard communica-

THE BALTIMORE JEWISH HOME

SEPTEMBER 3-9, 2026

WWW.THEBJH.COM

The Week In News

WWW.THEBJH.COM

chains and transporter networks could be life-threatening surgery to U.S. trade networks,” said Isaac Kardon, a China maritime expert at Johns Hopkins University. The allegations come as President Donald Trump and Chinese leader Xi Jinping prepare for a Washington summit later this month, with trade and national security expected to feature prominently in the talks.

Hamas Intel Chief Captured Israeli forces captured a Hamas security official in Gaza City on Tuesday during a covert operation carried out with the help of local militias and Israeli air support, according to Israeli officials. Defense Minister Israel Katz identified the detainee as Muin al-Arabid, whom Israel described as a senior figure

in Hamas’ internal security and counterintelligence network. Palestinian sources disputed that characterization, saying that al-Arabid was a lower-ranking officer. According to Israeli officials, al-Arabid helped oversee Hamas intelligence and counterintelligence efforts aimed at uncovering espionage and identifying Palestinians suspected of cooperating with Israel. The hours-long operation was conducted under the IDF Southern Command, but Israeli officials said no IDF ground troops entered Gaza City. Instead, local armed groups carried out the mission while Israeli aircraft provided cover from above. Officials said Zik drones struck several threats to the force on the ground before al-Arabid was captured and transferred to Israel while wounded. He is reportedly receiving medical treatment. Palestinian reports said the force was discovered during the operation, leading to exchanges of fire and heavy Israeli airstrikes across Gaza City. A Palestinian security source told Al Jazeera that Israel had not captured the

head of Hamas’ internal security apparatus. “An Israeli special force abducted one of the officers in the Internal Security apparatus,” the source said. Katz said the raid reflected Israel’s broader policy of aggressively pursuing Hamas operatives. “We do not wait for threats, but pursue Hamas terrorists, thwart them and destroy their terror infrastructure,” he said.

Dado Bar Kalifa to Lead Central Command

The IDF announced on Monday that Maj. Gen. Dado Bar Kalifa has been formally nominated to become the next

Interest Free Loans for:

RUBY LASKER DESIGNS

THE BALTIMORE JEWISH HOME

SEPTEMBER 3-9, 2026

tions equipment. Information gathered through the program, they said, could provide Beijing with maritime reconnaissance, early warning about potential military targets and an advantage in territorial disputes. China’s embassy in Washington strongly denied the allegations. “We oppose vilifying China by peddling the so-called ‘intelligence collection’ narrative, which is totally baseless,” embassy spokesman Liu Chang said. He added that Beijing would never ask a company or individual to obtain intelligence overseas in violation of local laws. Questions about COSCO’s ties to China’s military are not new. The Pentagon added the company to a list of firms linked to the Chinese military in January 2025. A U.S. Naval War College report published several months later also said China’s military was likely using commercial shipping and fishing fleets for surveillance and intelligence operations. Still, confronting COSCO could prove complicated. The company remains deeply integrated into international commerce and continues to call at American ports. “Taking COSCO out of our supply

Giving you a

HAND UP,

not a hand out.

Medical Expenses

Used Car Purchase

Simcha Expenses

Small Business Loans

Home Repair

Temporary Crisis

Education Expenses

and much more.

HEBREW FREE LOAN ASSOCIATION OF BALTIMORE HELPING THE BALTIMORE JEWISH COMMUNITY FOR MORE THAN 120 YEARS.

www.HebrewFreeLoan.org

(410) 843-7536

Mrs. Miriam Karp

SEPTEMBER 3-9, 2026

AN EVENING OF INSPIRATION WITH

THE BALTIMORE JEWISH HOME

AIM INVITES MARRIED WOMEN OF THE BALTIMORE COMMUNITY TO A MEANINGFUL AND INSPIRING HAFRASHAS CHALLAH EXPERIENCE. Just in time for Aseres Yemei T'shuvah

WEDNESDAY

Join us for an uplifting story of navigating motherhood and an unexpected diagnosis with emunah, bitachon, courage and acceptance.

8 16 PM SEPT

Congregation Shomrei Emunah 6221 Greenspring Ave Suggested donation $18 • $36 • $54

Have an entire room of women say Amen to your Bracha. All proceeds benefit AIM and its programs supporting postpartum mothers and families in our community.

AIM services all postpartum women within the Baltimore Jewish community. To sign up, volunteer or donate go to aimbaltimore.com or call (410)438-1AIM(246).

WWW.THEBJH.COM

HAFRASHAS CHALLAH SPONSOR $250

(Dough will be provided)

WWW.THEBJH.COM

THE BALTIMORE JEWISH HOME

SEPTEMBER 3-9, 2026

The Week In News head of Central Command, the senior military position overseeing operations in Judea and Samaria. The appointment comes weeks after Defense Minister Israel Katz caused an uproar by publicly naming Bar Kalifa for the job before the military had formally announced the move. According to the IDF, Katz has now approved Chief of Staff Lt. Gen. Eyal Zamir’s recommendation to appoint Bar Kalifa, who is expected to take over the command in 2027, “subject to an operational situation assessment.” The post is currently held by Maj. Gen. Avi Bluth. Katz and Zamir publicly clashed last month after Katz announced during a live television appearance that he intended to replace Bluth with Bar Kalifa. The comments came after panelists on Channel 14 pressed Katz to remove Bluth from the position. Katz later sought to clarify the remarks amid criticism that he had interfered in military appointments for political reasons. He said Bar Kalifa had already been recommended for the position and that he was merely announcing his intention to move the appointment forward. At the time, however, the IDF said the announcement had not followed standard procedure. Bar Kalifa currently serves as head of the IDF Personnel Directorate and previously commanded the 36th Division during months of combat against Hamas in Gaza. Bluth, meanwhile, has been a lightning rod for criticism from both ends of Israel’s political spectrum. Some leaders have accused him of being overly aggressive in confronting settler violence while failing to act forcefully enough against Palestinian terrorism. Left-wing groups, on the other hand, have criticized him for what they say has been an insufficient response to settler attacks and for supporting expanded settlement activity. It remains unclear whether Bluth will continue serving in the IDF after his term as Central Command chief ends in 2027. The IDF also announced a broad slate of senior appointments on Monday, including several new brigadier generals and colonels. Among them was a historic promotion for Col. Efrat Kaykov, who will become the first woman to command the Artillery Corps’ 282nd Regiment, a standing army artillery unit. Kaykov previously served as deputy commander of the regiment and was the first woman to command an Artillery Corps battalion.

Jew Joins Arab Slate Ra’am chairman Mansour Abbas announced on Monday that former senior police official and lawmaker Yoav Segalovitz will run on the Arab party’s slate in Israel’s October 27 election, marking an unprecedented political alliance for the party. Segalovitz, a Jewish Zionist who previously served with Yesh Atid and as deputy public security minister, is expected to take the No. 2 spot behind Abbas. Ra’am is currently polling at roughly four to five seats. “In every generation, there is a moment when fear and hope stand together in the same room,” Abbas said at a joint press conference. “This evening, in this room, hope won out.” Ra’am has never before placed a Jewish candidate on its Knesset slate. Segalovitz will not formally join the party, instead running as part of a technical alliance that will allow him to retain political independence in the Knesset. Abbas said the partnership reflects Ra’am’s growing focus on Jewish-Arab cooperation and domestic issues, particularly violent crime in Arab communities. “I’m not looking for someone who is like me,” Abbas said. “I’m looking for someone who knows how to do the job.” Segalovitz founded the police’s Lahav 433 serious-crime unit and later headed the Investigations and Intelligence Division. He was also credited with efforts to combat crime in Arab communities while serving as deputy minister during the Bennett-Lapid government. Segalovitz said his decision was rooted in his Jewish and Zionist values and in a belief that political cooperation remains possible despite deep differences. “The common assertion that after October 7 it is impossible to maintain a political partnership with Arab parties is baseless and false,” he said. He said he hopes the alliance can “build a real political bridge,” even if that bridge proves “shaky or unstable.” The move immediately drew fierce criticism from members of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s coalition. Likud accused Segalovitz of helping pave the way for a government that would advance Palestinian statehood, while National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir denounced the alliance as an effort to

bring Ra’am back into a future governing coalition. With polls showing a close race, even a small party may once again hold an outsized key to Israel’s next government.

Desalination Issues Most of Israel’s desalination plants were shut down again on Tuesday morning after rising seawater cloudiness made it difficult to safely operate the facilities, the Water Authority said. The closures came after the plants had operated through the night, briefly easing concerns that began over the weekend when five of the country’s six desalination facilities were taken offline. Local authorities were instructed to curb public water use and reduce irrigation in agriculture, parks and gardens. Household water supplies are expected to continue, though the Water Authority said its operations center would address any localized shortages. Farmers, however, warned that the disruption was already taking a serious toll. Shai Swissa, who owns a family farm in Kadesh Barnea in the northern Negev, told Channel 12 that her farm had been without water for more than 27 hours. “Without access to water, we have to transport water to workers in the field in bags,” she said. Swissa added that hundreds of animals on the farm were also without normal access to water, raising fears about the health of both livestock and crops. The current problem is believed to be caused by microalgae and other sediment carried northward from the Nile Delta, creating unusually murky conditions along Israel’s southern coastline.

As of Monday afternoon, the desalination facility in Hadera was the only one still operating. The Soreq A and B plants, along with facilities in Palmachim, Ashkelon and Ashdod, had been shut. “Professional personnel are closely monitoring water quality and are prepared for any scenario,” the Water Au-

thority said, adding that the goal is to restart the facilities as soon as the seawater clears. Officials have stressed that there is no indication the shutdowns are related to a cyber-attack. Israel relies heavily on desalination, with its six plants producing roughly 800 million cubic meters of water annually and supplying as much as 80 percent of the country’s drinking water. That dependence has made the temporary shutdowns particularly significant in the water-scarce region. A seventh desalination plant, planned for the Western Galilee, is expected to begin operating in 2027 and add another 100 million cubic meters of annual capacity.

“Achilles Shield” Deal

Israel and Greece signed a major $3.5 billion defense agreement on Monday that will see Israel build a multi-layered air defense system for Greece, marking the largest defense deal ever between the two countries. The agreement, dubbed “Achilles Shield,” will include several Israeli-made systems, among them Rafael’s David’s Sling and SPYDER systems and Israel Aerospace Industries’ BARAK MX. Israel’s Defense Ministry called the agreement “the largest defense export deal in the history of Israel-Greece relations” and one of the biggest arms deals Israel has ever signed. It will also mark the first time Israel has supplied another country with a complete air defense network designed to confront a broad range of threats, including ballistic missiles and drones. The agreement comes as countries around the world have shown growing interest in Israel’s missile defense technology following years of combat in which systems including Iron Dome, David’s Sling and Arrow have been used extensively. Israel and Greece already maintain close military ties, conducting annual exercises and cooperating on cybersecu-

THE BALTIMORE JEWISH HOME

SEPTEMBER 3-9, 2026

WWW.THEBJH.COM

Yair Netanyahu Targeted

The Shin Bet confirmed on Saturday that Yair Netanyahu, the prime minister’s son, was urgently flown back to Israel from Miami after security officials identified a serious threat to his life. The confirmation came days after

reports surfaced that Yair had been targeted in an alleged Iranian assassination plot while living in Florida in December 2025. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu had recently hinted at the incident during an interview with Channel 14, saying, “Iran targeted one of my sons. Iran tried to kill, to murder, one of my sons.” In a statement, the Shin Bet said there had been “a significant threat to harm Yair Netanyahu,” prompting officials to quickly remove him from Miami along with his security detail and return him to Israel. According to Channel 12, the operation was organized on short notice, with Shin Bet agents reportedly transferred to Miami from New York, where they had been assigned to protect President Isaac Herzog during a visit. Israeli authorities did not publicly detail the exact nature of the threat. However, Newsmax reported earlier in the week that intelligence officials believed Iranian operatives were “on the ground” in the Miami area and had been monitoring Yair’s movements. Yair had spent much of the previous

SERVICES:

Additions • Kitchens Basements • Bathrooms Plumbing • Flooring Painting • Masonry Stone • Brick

Yaron (Ron) Peretz CELL: 443.925.4730 OFFICE: 410.320.0214 rpshomeimprovementsllc@gmail.com References Available • Free Estimate

Army Sec. Steps Down Army Secretary Dan Driscoll has submitted his resignation to President Donald Trump, according to officials on

PLAN DESIGN BUILD

ing Your D

20+ Years

ams in R re

WWW.THEBJH.COM

RESIDENTIAL & COMMERCIAL

several years living in Florida, where both his lifestyle and the publicly funded security surrounding him became the subject of political controversy in Israel. His extended stay abroad also drew criticism after the October 7, 2023, Hamas attack, as hundreds of thousands of Israelis were called up for reserve duty. Netanyahu has defended the protection provided to his sons, arguing that without security, attackers “would succeed.” Yair has long been a polarizing figure in Israeli public life. He maintains a highly active social media presence and frequently attacks political opponents, journalists and critics of his father.

for both Israel and Greece. Greece has sharply increased defense spending in recent years and now devotes roughly 3.5 percent of its GDP to the military, placing it among NATO’s higher-spending members. For Israel, the agreement represents more than an export win. Officials say major foreign purchases help expand production lines, bolster Israeli weapons stockpiles, and strengthen the country’s defense industry.

SEPTEMBER 3-9, 2026

rity, drone defense and military training. Greece last year purchased 36 Israeli-made rocket artillery systems in a deal worth approximately $739 million. The latest agreement was signed in Tel Aviv by Defense Ministry Director General Amir Baram and his Greek counterpart, Ioannis Bouras. “Greece’s choice of Israeli technology as the backbone of its most ambitious air defense buildup program in the past decade reflects the depth of trust built between the two countries,” Israel’s Defense Ministry said. A separate $30 million agreement was also signed for Rafael’s Drone Dome counter-drone system. Defense Minister Israel Katz said the partnership reflects the shared strategic concerns of Israel and Greece in the Eastern Mediterranean. “Israel and Greece share common strategic interests and face shared regional challenges,” Katz said, adding that both countries would continue working together to preserve regional stability. His comments were widely seen as a reference to Turkey, whose regional ambitions have become a growing concern

Experience

Like us on RPS HOME Improvements

CHECK OUT OUR NEW WEBSITE: RPSCONSTRUCTIONINC.COM | FULLY LICENSED & INSURED MHIC# 131496

l ity

THE BALTIMORE JEWISH HOME

The Week In News

Infusing Baltimore With the Spirit of Ameilus B’Torah

THE BALTIMORE JEWISH HOME

‫ נשיא‬,‫הרב יעקב האפפער‬

SEPTEMBER 3-9, 2026

‫ימי הרחמים והסליחות תשפ״ז‬

Donate Today at KollelDBaltimore.com

Under the leadership of Harav Yaakov Hopfer, shlit”a, the Kollel has become a vibrant makom Torah whose influence reaches far beyond the walls of its Beis Medrash, strengthening individuals, families and Baltimore’s broader Torah community. Now in its fourteenth year, Kollel D’Baltimore infuses Baltimore with the spirit of Torah through consistent limud HaTorah, deep ameilus and unwavering dedication.

WWW.THEBJH.COM

Kollel Giving Campaign 5787

WWW.THEBJH.COM

THE BALTIMORE JEWISH HOME

SEPTEMBER 3-9, 2026

The Week In News Monday, paving the way for him to depart the administration in coming days after repeated clashes with Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth. Driscoll has served as Army secretary since February 2025, overseeing efforts to make the service more modern and nimble and taking a leading role in the Trump administration’s efforts to defend against the proliferation of cheap, deadly drones. Hegseth and Driscoll clashed both professionally and personally over the firing of top generals, over Hegseth’s belief that Driscoll had not been appropriately deferential to the defense secretary, and over other matters, said people familiar with their relationship. Driscoll is a close friend and former Yale Law School classmate of Vice President JD Vance. Officials at the White House credited Driscoll in April as being among a group of leaders who “effectively restored a focus on readiness and lethality across our military.” For a time, Driscoll was seen as a potential replacement for Hegseth, should he leave the position. President Trump had sent Driscoll to Ukraine in November 2025 to represent the U.S. government. Driscoll, an Iraq War veteran who was 38 years old when the Senate confirmed him as the Army’s top civilian leader, worked in venture capital and ran an unsuccessful congressional campaign in 2020 before joining the Trump administration. He sought to stay at the Pentagon for up to two years, but the infighting accelerated his decision to leave, two officials said. Driscoll’s departure follows that of Navy Secretary John Phelan, who was forced out in April. In that case, Hegseth sought Phelan’s firing, and Trump agreed. The service is now run on an acting basis by Hung Cao, a Navy veteran more closely aligned with Hegseth. It’s not clear when the Trump administration will nominate someone to run the Army or Navy on a permanent basis. Rep. Pat Harrigan (R-North Carolina), a former Special Forces officer, said on social media that Driscoll “brought urgency to an institution that cannot afford complacency.” The congressman credited Driscoll with constantly questioning how the Army buys and sustains equipment and prepares soldiers for the battlefield. “I’ve been fortunate to work along-

side him on many of those fights, and even more fortunate to call him a friend,” Harrigan said. “His leadership made the Army stronger, and the impact of his work will be felt long after his time as Secretary. Dan’s service to this country is far from over.” David J. Freeman, a social media influencer popular with MAGA Republicans, had another view. “Good riddance!” Freeman wrote to his more than 1.7 million followers on X. “If Dan Driscoll could not get on the same page as Pete Hegseth, he did not need that office.”

Stabbing in Times Square On Monday, a woman brandishing two knives stabbed two people in New York City’s Times Square, killing one of the women. The stabber was eventually killed by police. The shooting occurred just before 4:30 p.m. next to a New York Police Department substation, just outside One Times Square. It is one of the most heavily touristed and policed spots in all of New York. The 49-year-old woman from Queens pulled out two knives from a shopping bag and stabbed a 68-yearold man who had just come out of the subway station and was waiting to cross the street with his wife, striking him in the abdomen. Seconds later, the woman stabbed a 32-year-old woman also in the abdomen. Police Commissioner Jessica Tisch said. Both victims were taken to the hospital; the woman died of her wounds. The man is in stable condition, according to police. Police surrounded the deranged woman, who told them, “I’m not dropping anything. I would rather kill both of you.” “This was an extraordinarily dangerous situation unfolding in the heart of Times Square, the crossroads of the world,” Tisch said. According to Tisch, the woman has a “documented mental health history with the NYPD,” which include incidents in 2018 and 2019 but no arrest history with the department. This is the second killing this year in Times Square. A man was fatally stabbed in the same area in May.

THE BALTIMORE JEWISH HOME

SEPTEMBER 3-9, 2026

WWW.THEBJH.COM

THE BALTIMORE JEWISH HOME

SEPTEMBER 3-9, 2026

The Week In News Lake America

yond U.S. borders. Last year, Trump ordered that the Gulf of Mexico be renamed the Gulf of America, and both Apple and Google later updated the name on their maps in the U.S.

Grand Canyon Flash Floods Last week, in the newest clash between President Donald Trump and the U.S.’s northern neighbor, the president decided to rename Lake Ontario “Lake America.” His executive order on Friday directed the Interior Department to update the lake’s name in the U.S. geographic naming service. On Monday, Trump asked Apple to change the name of Lake Ontario to “Lake America” on its maps app. Interior Secretary Doug Burgum told Fox’s “Mornings with Maria” program that Trump “reached out to Apple directly.” He said he was confident the “Lake America” name could be seen on its platform soon. As of Monday afternoon, only the Lake Ontario name appeared on the Apple platform. Just over the weekend, competitor Google Maps rolled out the new “Lake America” name for U.S. users looking at the body of water that sits between the state of New York and Canada’s Ontario province. The company cited the recent order by Trump and its already-established practice of using names assigned by the U.S. Geographic Names Information System, also known as GNIS. “People using Maps in the U.S. will see ‘Lake America,’ those in Canada will continue to see ‘Lake Ontario,’ and those outside of the U.S. and Canada will see both names,” Google said in a brief statement on Saturday, reiterating that such updates “follow our long-standing policy for bodies of water with names that vary from country to country.” After Trump’s executive decision, the leader of the Seneca Nation in upstate New York said that the move violates a more than 225-year-old treaty and shows a “blatant disrespect” for the Indigenous people who gave Lake Ontario its name in the first place. This isn’t the first time Trump has moved to rename water spanning be-

A deadly flash flood swept through the Grand Canyon on Saturday afternoon, endangering scores of hikers and killing at least two people. At least one person is still missing. The current missing-person count is based on permits issued by the park, park officials said, while acknowledging that additional day hikers who did not have permits could also be missing. A Border Patrol technical search team will search for the remaining missing person. Authorities said they will also use Bluetooth technology and a drone to search the damaged area.

Flash flooding unfolded about 2:30 p.m. local time on Saturday in the Bright Angel Canyon and Phantom Ranch area, both popular destinations for hikers. Eighty-two people were rescued from the canyon, mostly by helicopter. A few people were able to hike out on their own. Flood survivors said that they ran for their lives when the flood swept through the floor of the Grand Canyon, wiping out campgrounds, structures, hiking trails and vital infrastructure. On Sunday evening, officials said the body of a 46-year-old man, whose name has not been released, was recovered near Crystal Rapids along the Colorado River. The family of the other recovered victim identified him as Dr. John Giusti, a Texas chiropractor and married father of three daughters. “The flash flood resulted in significant impacts to infrastructure throughout Bright Angel Canyon.

Nearly all footbridges spanning Bright Angel Creek were destroyed, eliminating hiker access across the creek,” the Grand Canyon NPS said. Saturday’s flash flood event occurred after four rounds of rain swept across parts of the Grand Canyon over a span of about six hours, according to the National Weather Service. The initial three rounds were not very heavy but saturated the soil and left the area much more prone to dangerous flash flooding once the fourth round of torrential rain moved through. The steepness of the canyon and the burn scar from last year’s Dragon Bravo Fire on the North Rim were likely major contributors to the roaring floods.

Play Your Cards Right

Talk about hitting it out of the park. A 13-year-old Seattle Mariners fan turned a free ballpark giveaway into a $21,100 payday after scoring a one-ofa-kind rookie card featuring Jimothy, Seattle’s unlikely raccoon celebrity. The gold Jimothy card sold on eBay on Sunday after attracting 100 bids. The auction began at just 99 cents before collectors went wild, driving the price above $21,000 in a matter of days. The lucky cardholder was Abby, a 13-year-old Mariners fan who received the rare card during an August 5 promotion at T-Mobile Park. “Talk about a one-of-a-kind pull,” the ballpark wrote on social media after Abby discovered the card. And in this case, that was no trash talk. Jimothy became a Seattle sensation over the summer after videos of the unusually shaped raccoon roaming the city’s Ballard neighborhood spread online. The compact critter is believed

to have Short Spine Syndrome, a rare condition that gives him his distinctive appearance. The Mariners quickly decided to get in on the raccoon racket. For its August 5 promotion, the team handed Jimothy rookie cards to the first 20,000 fans entering the stadium, with several harder-to-find “chase cards” randomly mixed into the batch. “Among the 20,000 cards, we had a collection of ‘chase cards’ which were headlined by the 1-of-1 gold card that Abby took home,” the Mariners said. That little piece of cardboard turned out to be worth considerably more than peanuts — or whatever Jimothy prefers digging out of Seattle’s garbage cans. Abby later listed the card on eBay. Starting at less than a dollar, bidding steadily climbed until the auction closed at $21,100. Fan pages have said the money is expected to go toward her college fund. Jimothy, meanwhile, has gone from backyard visitor to bona fide local celebrity. Ballard resident Dmitriy Ishimskiy, who filmed the raccoon visiting his property, said the animal’s fame took off almost overnight. “Over the past week, Jimothy has become a local celebrity, and I feel lucky to have captured this moment on video,” he said. For Abby, the whole episode proved that sometimes the best ballpark catch doesn’t involve a baseball at all. And for Jimothy? Not bad for a guy whose career began by simply raccooning around the neighborhood.

Necklace Nabbing Two thieves in Vienna apparently decided admission was worth the price. Last week, the men bought tickets to enter the Museum of Applied Arts before smashing a display case with a hammer and stealing a 200-carat platinum-and-diamond necklace worth several million dollars, Austrian police said. The Van Cleef & Arpels necklace, set with 673 precious stones, was part of a major exhibition devoted to the famed French jewelry house. Police said the suspects did not

THE BALTIMORE JEWISH HOME SEPTEMBER 3-9, 2026

WWW.THEBJH.COM

Kosher Bite • Village Wine & Liq • Quarry W&S • Decanter Wines

THE BALTIMORE JEWISH HOME

SEPTEMBER 3-9, 2026

The Week In News wear masks and were clearly captured on surveillance cameras during Thursday’s robbery.

After entering like ordinary museumgoers, the pair “smashed a glass display case” before fleeing with the necklace “in an unknown direction,” police said. In other words, they came for the exhibit and left with a souvenir worth considerably more than anything in the gift shop. The museum confirmed the theft but declined to comment further while the investigation is underway. The exhibition, which has featured roughly 500 pieces since June, is scheduled to run through September 27. The stolen necklace has some roy-

al history of its own. It was created for Egypt’s former royal family and was worn by Queen Nazli in 1939 at the wedding of her daughter Princess Fawzia to Mohammad Reza Pahlavi, who later became Shah of Iran. Van Cleef & Arpels has described the piece as a “triumph of white jewelry.” For investigators, though, the real challenge now is finding where all that sparkle disappeared. The Vienna robbery is the latest in a string of brazen thefts targeting European museums. In October, thieves broke into the Louvre in Paris in broad daylight and escaped in less than eight minutes with jewelry valued at approximately $102 million. More recently, thieves raided a museum in Villena, Spain, stealing pieces from a major Bronze Age gold collection, while four valuable Renaissance paintings were taken from a museum in Sicily. Italian police also recently recovered works by Renoir, Cezanne and Matisse worth more than $10 million

after they were stolen from a museum near Parma. Sounds like there are serious getaway gems on the loose.

Over the Hill

Dale Sanders has learned that when life knocks you down, you get back up. In his case, 71 times. The 91-year-old Tennessee man reclaimed his title on Monday as the oldest person to complete the Appalachian Trail after finishing the 2,193-mile route atop Maine’s Mount Katahdin. Sanders, whose trail name is “Grey Beard,” counted 71 falls during the journey, including six serious tumbles.

NOW HIRING! Administrative Assistant

WWW.THEBJH.COM

CALL IMMEDIATELY TO BE SAFE AND DRY!

24/6 Emergency Services Immediate Response

One sent him briefly to the hospital. Another came just 200 yards from the finish. But none of them stopped him. “I had to thank G-d, and I had to thank my support team and everybody that got me here,” Sanders said after reaching the summit and pausing to pray. Sanders first set the age record in 2017, when he completed the trail at 82 years old. Four years later, his friend M.J. Eberhart — known on the trail as “Nimblewill Nomad” — broke the record at 83. Sanders promptly plotted a comeback. This time, however, the road — or more accurately, the rocks, roots and boulder fields — was considerably rougher. In June, Sanders fell while descending Vermont’s Killington Mountain, scraping his arms, hands and legs. “Thank G-d, nothing got broken, but I was banged up,” he said. “I didn’t rub the blood off – I just kept hiking.” Weeks later, numbness in his arm

◦ Call us before you call your insurance company ◦ Our experts will help make the insurance process ◦ smooth and easy ◦ We work with all major insurance companies ◦ We take care of all paperwork

CELL: 443.925.4730 | OFFICE: 410.320.0214 info@rpsrestoration.com | A division of RPS Home Improvements LLC

Licensed Bonded Insured

#253895

THE BALTIMORE JEWISH HOME

SEPTEMBER 3-9, 2026

WWW.THEBJH.COM

THE BALTIMORE JEWISH HOME

SEPTEMBER 3-9, 2026

The Week In News sent him to a hospital. Doctors initially feared a stroke but ultimately diagnosed a pinched nerve. Sanders had a bit of help along the way. In Pennsylvania, “trail angels” brought Sanders treats, including caramel frappes. “When people are taking care of you and bringing you caramel frappes on the trail, the rocks don’t matter,” he said. Sanders has become a celebrity among hikers, many of whom say his determination has inspired them. Determination may be putting it mildly. On one 12-mile day, Sanders became tired enough to lie down on the trail for what he called a power nap. Two minutes later, he woke up and started hiking again. At 91 years young, apparently even his rest stops are in a hurry. Sanders has also paddled the entire Mississippi River, completing the 87day journey after beginning it on his 87th birthday. For Grey Beard, age may be just a number. But he’s definitely not over the hill.

Protected Parrots

One of the world’s rarest parrots is finally getting some good news, and conservationists in New Zealand are positively chirping about it. A record 90 kakapo chicks were born this breeding season, bringing the total population of the critically endangered species to 325, according to New Zealand’s Department of Conservation. For a bird that once appeared headed toward extinction, that’s no small feather in its cap. The kakapo is a large, flightless parrot native to New Zealand. Males can weigh as much as nine pounds, making it the world’s heaviest parrot. With yellow-green feathers, owl-like faces and a

distinctive waddling gait, kakapos are unusual even by parrot standards. They are also exceptionally longlived, with some believed to survive 60 to 90 years. “There is still a long road of recovery ahead, but ninety chicks in a single season is a record,” said Deidre Vercoe, who manages the government’s kakapo recovery operations. “In the early years of recovery, it took 16 years to produce that many chicks.” The milestone is particularly significant because kakapos breed infrequently, generally depending on the fruiting cycle of native rimu trees. There had been a four-year gap since the previous breeding season. The species’ population may not have exceeded 300 birds in roughly 75 years, officials said. The Kakapo Recovery Programme began in 1995 with just 51 birds, including only 20 females. Conservationists have since battled low genetic diversity, infertility, poor hatching rates and the constant threat of predators. Kakapos live in an environment with virtually no ground predators and

eventually lost the ability to fly. That strategy worked beautifully — until humans arrived with cats, rats and other animals that found a slow-moving, flightless parrot to be something of a sitting duck. Today, the surviving birds live primarily on predator-free offshore islands and are closely monitored. Each kakapo wears a small backpack-style radio transmitter that allows conservation teams to track its whereabouts and activity. Officials are also experimenting with a more hands-off approach, reducing chick checks and supplementary feeding where possible. Many of this year’s chicks will receive names next year. A few will deliberately remain unnamed, symbolizing hopes that the population may eventually become large and self-sustaining enough that officials won’t need to know every bird on a first-name basis. Current projections suggest another breeding season could come in 2028. For now, though, conservationists can enjoy this rare, egg-citing event.

Yitzy & Stephanie Halon on the birth of a son Yaakov & Bracha Rappaport on the birth of a daughter Rabbi Moshe & Malkie Sandhaus on the birth of a daughter

Want to see your simcha here? Email mazeltov@baltimorejewishhome.com or text 443-675-6507 to submit your simcha!

THE BALTIMORE JEWISH HOME

SEPTEMBER 3-9, 2026

WWW.THEBJH.COM

THE BALTIMORE JEWISH HOME

SEPTEMBER 3-9, 2026

nspiration Nation

Rav Reuven Feinstein Lessons in Humility, Chinuch, and Faith BY BrendY J. Siev

rowing up, R’ Reuven Feinstein, shlita, knew his father was a rabbi, and a respected one, but that was about it. At home, there had been no ga’avah, nothing to signal greatness. Just a father who learned at his desk while his youngest son played with toy soldiers on the floor beneath it. It wasn’t until he had left home to learn in Telz and saw how people reacted to the name “Feinstein,” that he understood how important his father, R’ Moshe Feinstein, zt”l, actually was.

Ask him what kind of father Rav Moshe was, and Rav Reuven hesitates; R’ Moshe was “the only father we had,” he says wryly. But pressed further, the picture comes into focus: Rav Moshe was incredibly considerate. He never wanted anyone to feel tzaar because of him. He never kept a person waiting. Rav Moshe and the rebbetzin were simply always together, a steady closeness that didn’t need announcing to be real. R’ Moshe would carry young R’ Reuven, give him piggyback rides and

In His Words… Anavah is not thinking you are a nobody. it’s recognizing that your talent is a gift from Hashem— and because He gave you that gift, He expects more from you. i never made the Shabbos table an inquisition. The table should be a place where children want to be—a

WWW.THEBJH.COM

warm environment to talk, ask questions, and be together. We have no true control in this world. Once you internalize that Hashem is taking care of you, the panic leaves.

small, wordless affection. Mostly being together simply meant being in the same room while his father learned. R’ Reuven would sit underneath his father’s desk with his toy soldiers and marbles, running his games out across the floor while his father worked through a daf of learning above him. R’ Reuven didn’t need his father to look up. “I didn’t need to talk to him,” R’ Reuven recalls. “I just played near him.” R’ Reuven’s clearest memory of his father is simple: writing, always writing. “I never spied on my father,” R’ Reuven says, unlike the yeshiva boys who had no such compunction, but he understood R’ Moshe’s learning pattern from what others described. R’ Moshe learned through a page of Gemara, then Rashi, then Tosafos, then turned the page and started again. “He did about 100 pages an hour on Shabbos” and retained nearly all of it. R’ Moshe’s mind wasn’t confined to Torah alone, either. R’ Reuven tells a story from just after the Communists took power, before World War II, when a local commissar, herself a mathematician, tried to publicly embarrass the rabbis as ignorant of anything outside their own texts. She handed R’ Moshe a complex equation. He gave her the answer on the spot. Later, he wrote a sefer on mathematics. His grasp of world history worked the same way his son’s yeshiva still teaches it today: not history for its own sake, but history as it actually touched Jewish life.

Growing up between two worlds, the wider world outside and the Torah world at home, is something a lot of parents talk about trying to balance. R’ Reuven’s advice on how to find that balance is less a technique than a description of the house he grew up in. “There was no ga’avah in our house,” he says. “There was no such thing as being high and mighty.” He and his siblings were capable, and they felt it, but nobody needed to announce it. What mattered more was understanding yourself honestly enough to see what needed fixing. “My father left himself open that we should always be able to talk to him,” he recalls. Anavah, humility, runs on the same principle. It isn’t the hollow, headbowed self-erasure people often picture, where you put your head down and call yourself a nobody. His father’s version was the opposite of pretending you have nothing to offer; it was remembering where whatever you do have actually comes from. “It’s a gift from Hashem,” he says. “Therefore, it’s nothing for you to brag about.” But a gift comes with responsibility attached: because He gave you this gift, He also expects more from you. That philosophy showed up plainly at the Shabbos table, which R’ Reuven has carried into his own home as a parent. The table, in his words, is a place you want to join.

on the ground!

860 FAMILIES

already live in Carmay HaNadiv!

Discover why hundreds of Anglo families are choosing Carmay HaNadiv Lowest prices for an Anglo community project in the center of Israel Limited time offer! Carmay HaNadiv is helping overseas buyers move forward with a special exchange rate.

SEPTEMBER 3-9, 2026

For illustration only

sold!

27 BUILDINGS

THE BALTIMORE JEWISH HOME

920 APARTMENTS

$1 = ₪3.5* *On the first 10%

+ 9 7 2 - 5 4 - 4 4 4 -17 31

WWW.THEBJH.COM

Don’t miss our webinar on Sunday, Sept. 6, at 10:30 a.m. EST to get all the information about Carmay HaNadiv, where community, quality and affordability meet.

WWW.THEBJH.COM

THE BALTIMORE JEWISH HOME

SEPTEMBER 3-9, 2026

“It wasn’t the Inquisition time: what did you learn this week, tell me this. I never questioned my kids at the Shabbos table.... It was a pretty open house,” he says. “There was nothing to hide.” He tells a story from a summer when he was a boy upstate in the country. Each morning, for about two hours, his father learned with him. This was scheduled deliberately, so that by the time the farm truck rolled around that would take the children into town at around one o’clock, R’ Reuven would be free to climb aboard. One day, the truck was preparing to leave earlier than planned, and R’ Moshe, mid-lesson, noticed R’ Reuven watching it pull away. Rather than hold him to the schedule, R’ Moshe simply said: “Go, we’ll learn later.” Even as a boy, R’ Reuven understood what his father already knew, that forcing the moment would have long-term impact. When R’ Reuven talks about antisemitism, he isn’t drawing on headlines. He’s drawing on memory. “I think it’s definitely different,” he says, comparing what Yidden face today to what he faced as a boy. Walking to school nearly guaranteed getting beaten “at least once a day for wearing a yarmulke.” He and other Jewish children were called “g-d-killers and everything else,” and it wasn’t incidental: “the priests would tell the kids to beat up Jews.” Walking alone made children a target. “So I knew hatred in that sense,” he says. He was a small child during the Second World War, too young to grasp the full scope of what was happening but old enough to grow up already aware that concentration camps existed. “You lived with it,” he says. “When I grew up, America was a

place where Jews were secondary,” he says. In 1950, he was thrown out of the U.S. Capitol for wearing a yarmulke. A policeman stopped him: “Get that hat off your head.” He explained, “I’m sorry, I can’t, this is part of my religion.” The response was immediate: “Get out of this building.” As a boy, R’ Reuven’s brother told him to root for the Dodgers, not the Yankees, not out of any real interest in the sport, but because everyone around him was a Yankees fan. He took the ribbing for years. What stuck with him wasn’t the team; it was the players who happened to be Jewish. “My interest in baseball was always more about the Jewish players,” he says, men like Sandy Koufax and Hank Greenberg, “they meant a lot because it was a big statement for the world.” He points to Greenberg’s near-miss at Babe Ruth’s home run record as proof of exactly what he means: “Greenberg hit 58 home runs, but they stopped pitching to him at the end of the season because he was a Jew and they didn’t want a Jew to break Babe Ruth’s record. You had blatant antisemitism straight in baseball,” he says. “When I was a kid, the right was considered the dangerous ones,” he says, pointing to Hitler and Mussolini as the threats of his childhood. His read on the present has flipped: “Now, the left hates us, they want to kill us.” The right, in his assessment, isn’t necessarily driven by love either. “The right is holding onto us, but not because they love us,” he says, noting that much of the Christian pro-Israel movement is rooted in a belief that certain prophecies can’t unfold without Jews in Eretz Yisrael, rather than affection for Jews themselves. Even so, “I still take that

over them trying to kill us.” Some things, though, have genuinely gotten better. In his own youth, there was no Kollel system to speak of, just the earliest seeds of the idea. “Now the whole world is learning,” he says. “Our generation can take credit for that.” But he doesn’t let the comparison end on an uncomplicated note. Where the threats of his childhood were personal and local – a beating on the way to school – he sees the current moment as facing something aimed at the nation as a whole. Through all of it, his read stays the same as it’s always been: “Hashem is gathering the exiles slowly but surely.” That belief carries into how he thinks about aliyah, too. Asked directly whether Jews should be moving to Eretz Yisrael now, his answer wasn’t a blanket yes or no. “I would think if you have no reason to be here, why not?” he says. For himself, staying isn’t inertia: “I have a reason to be here; I have a job.” He doesn’t expect the decision to stay theoretical for everyone forever either, pointing to what’s already unfolding in France, where rising antisemitism has been quietly pushing Jews to leave, and predicting similar pressures will eventually make the choice for people who don’t make it themselves. However it plays out, in his view, it was never really in human hands to begin with. “Hashem is the One running the show,” he asserts. When asked about contemporary challenges—such as the “shidduch crisis”—Rav Reuven points out that distorted societal expectations often create artificial problems. “Girls in Bais Yaakov are often taught that they must only marry a

gadol ha’dor,” he observes. “A gadol ha’dor is busy with the entire community. What a person needs is a devoted, fine husband. There is nothing wrong with a fine working boy who maintains firm hashkafah and sets fixed times for learning. We need to focus on what truly matters.” Ultimately, whether addressing societal anxieties or personal struggles, Rav Reuven points to one foundational pillar: bitachon, absolute reliance on Hashem. Hashgacha pratis, he asserts, is what separates the Jews from the nonJews. When a Jew believes fully in the special relationship that they have with the Ribbono shel Olam, then they will experience yeshuos. What comes through underneath all of it is a kind of trust that doesn’t need to be explained so much as arrived at. He tells a story about an MRI he took years ago: laid into the machine and told it would take 45 minutes, he suddenly “panicked from the loss of control” and couldn’t finish the scan. Lying there, he turned the fear over in his mind, asking what exactly it was afraid of. “I started thinking to myself, my subconscious is afraid. What is it afraid of? The loss of control. So I had to think over all the situations in life where I have no control and I have to rely on G-d anyway. It’s a point of knowing there’s a G-d that takes care of you,” he says. “You can’t protect yourself on your own; it’s impossible. So therefore, we have to rely on Hashem.” He went back into the machine and finished the test. “Once you internalize that Hashem is taking care of you, the panic leaves. “We’re in Hashem’s hands,” he says.

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

THE BALTIMORE JEWISH HOME

SEPTEMBER 3-9, 2026

WWW.THEBJH.COM

THE BALTIMORE JEWISH HOME

SEPTEMBER 3-9, 2026

Torah Thought

A Fight To The Finish By Rabbi Zvi Teichman

o the one who says in the face of calamity, “I will have peace, even if I do as I see fit”, G-d responds that he will not forgive him. (‫)דברים כט יט‬ The Torah then goes on to describe how, '‫ — יעשן אף ד‬His anger will smoke, ‫ — באיש ההוא‬against that man. Rashi, explaining the imagery of smoke, adds, through anger, the body [of a person] becomes heated up, and fumes are emitted from the nose. Although Rashi explains this is merely figurative to make a point, why is it necessary to get into the physiology of anger to understand properly G-d’s fury? Have you ever actually observed fumes emanating from even the angriest man? The nostrils indeed flare in reactive anger, the body heat rises, but, other than in cartoons, does smoke ever really appear? Why are we wired in a way that when people affront us, we instinctively explode emotionally and physically with rage?

WWW.THEBJH.COM

Like other emotions, anger is experienced in our bodies as well as in our minds. There is a complex series of physiological events that occurs as we become angry. Emotions begin in our brains in the area called the amygdala. The amygdala is responsible for identifying threats to our well-being. It sends out an alarm when threats are identified that results our taking steps to protect ourselves. The amygdala is so efficient, that it gets us reacting before the cortex (responsible for thought and judgment) can check on the rationality of our reaction. Our brains are wired in such a way as to influence us to act before we can carefully consider the consequences of our actions. When we become angry our bodies’ muscles tense up. Inside our brain, neurotransmitter chemicals are released causing us to experience a burst of energy lasting up to several minutes. This burst of energy is behind the desire to take immediate protective action. At the same time our heart

rate accelerates, our blood pressure rises, and our rate of breathing increases. Our face may flush, warming the body, as increased blood flow close to the skin, enters our limbs and extremities in preparation for physical action. Our attention narrows and becomes locked onto the target of your anger. Soon one can pay attention to nothing else. You are now ready to fight. When things do not go our way, whether due to other’s actions or words, or when the divinely directed circumstances of life do not work out in accordance with our own plans, we react as if we are being threatened, ready to fight and protect our ‘entitled’ rights. The ‘fight or flight’ response that is wired into our brain to help us ward off real threat, is hijacked and implemented when we become angry at those who insult us. But if we would only allow our cortex to reason, we will quickly recede from that irrational reflex, knowing very well that a loving G-d is reaching out, desperately, to gain our attention and give us wise direction towards finding genuine happiness. The great Baal Mussar, Rav Elya Lopian, informs us that this man who claims ‘I will do as I see fit’, is not a non-observant Jew, he is merely one who is described as, ‫ — והתברך בלבבו‬he will bless himself in his heart. He prays, studies Torah, performs mitzvos, but believes that there are certain areas of observance that are simply beyond his ability to perform or control, blessing himself with a sense of complacency that he is exempt from changing his ways or trying to improve. G-d will not allow his children to be denied the joy they are destined for. He will challenge them with difficulties that will frustrate them even more, provoking their anger, towards a G-d they believe in, but are very frustrated with, and ready to fight in order to preserve their misconceived rights. The great Chasidic leader, Reb Elimelech Of Grodzhisk, offers a fascinating translation of the verse that seemingly depicts G-d’s anger, as actually referring to man.

When the verse states that G-d’s anger and jealousy will smoke — ‫ — באיש ההוא‬it does not mean ‘against’ him, but rather, ‘within’ him. The agitation that will smoke within one faced with these unique challenges — brilliantly designed and orchestrated by a G-d who only seeks our welfare — is a struggle with himself. One will never calm fully until one’s cortex directs one to see with absolute clarity the glorious objective that fuels the entire journey. Man, in his struggle, often projects his own personal anger upon G-d, as if G-d is at fault, seeking to deny his due. When one realizes the noble purpose in all his suffering, that misinterpretation will disappear as quickly as smoke, seeing reality in a whole new light. The use of ‫ — עשן‬smoke, is instructive. Anger is always misplaced, and only directed to ‘fight’ against illusions of an attack. The word ‫ עשן‬is an acronym for: ‫ — עולם‬Space, ‫ — שנה‬Time, ‫ — נפש‬Soul. The realities of a physical world, defined in terms of the limited notions of time and space, befuddle our ability to perceive the true reality of G-d’s presence. The portrayal of G-d’s smoking anger is merely the projection of an ire with oneself. When we are willing to peer through the smoke, we will discover the true warmth and light of His beckoning presence. G-d is looking for a ‘fight’, throwing down the gauntlet to a challenge. But it is not for a fight with Him, it is rather to prod us into battle to discover our own identity and greatness. My dear friend, Rabbi Dov Fuchs, a beloved Rebbi in Yerushalayim, who writes a weekly column in HaModia’s weekend edition entitled, ‘An American in Yerushalayim’, shared a touching story about one of his talmidim, who had fought his own tug-of-war with G-d, struggling to discover himself, that I believe brings this point very much home. Aharon lives in a world of his own. While others have immersed themselves in the Sea of Torah, Aharon is still playing in the sand. Not in a bad way. With not a bad bone in his body, he is a sweet, soft spoken, and thoughtful student. But as far as following and conforming, Aharon is a late bloomer. He marches to his own schedule and has his own ideas of what is important to focus on. Despite many attempts nothing seemed to work. Encouragement, reminders, gentle rebuke, and even disciplinary actions flew right by him. Recently, a miracle happened. Something clicked. Aharon decided it was time to buy a Gemara. He went to the store, asked for the right tractate, and as a proud owner

of his very own Oz VeHadar, he returned to the Yeshiva. He entered the classroom, opening his Gemara with a glint in his eye. Suddenly, his face contorted with anxiety. I cannot believe this, my wallet is missing, he mumbled to himself. He jumped up and began frantically searching around. His first day in shiur ended abruptly, as he raced out of the building to trace his steps in a desperate search. He stopped every single passerby and asked if they had seen his wallet. Some people politely helped him look for a moment. A group of seminary students began texting their friends and relatives trying to find out the appropriate prayers to say as a segulah when something is lost. He made his way back to the Seforim store and asked the man at the counter if anything had turned up. Nada. Aharon was beside himself. Retracing his steps to the Yeshiva with his eyes glued to the floor, he came up empty handed. His despair turned in to bitterness and anger. I am finally putting in the effort to learn and go to class, he thought to himself, why is this happening to me now? What does G-d want from me already? As is his way, Aharon decided to sit in solitude, and contemplate what happened, trying to make sense of it all. He realized that while he could not know why this was occurring to him, it was obvious that losing his wallet was G-d’s will. Being frustrated, upset, or disturbed, would not help. So, he decided to surrender himself to the ratzon of Hashem, realizing that, like it or not, G-d had a reason and a plan. He looked up at the beautiful sky above and made a two-word declaration. I surrender. At that second, literally, his phone rang. Someone had found his wallet. His cortex kicked in, he finally claimed a knockout and had won, discovering a renewed inner strength, and clearing the smoke that obscured G-d’s loving smile upon him. We will soon exult on Rosh Hashana: ‫ובכן צדיקים יראו וישמחו‬... — And so, the righteous will see, and be glad... ‫ — וכל הרשעה כלה כעשן תכלה‬And all the wickedness — all of it — like smoke will vanish... When the world will merit to ‘see’ and rejoice in G-d’s constant presence, guidance and support, the natural result will be the realization that all that appeared evil was merely a smokescreen, an illusion, an image of our own making. The Zohar calls Rosh Hashana a, ‫ — יומא דקרבא‬a Day of Battle. It is the day we fight to finally discover ourselves, who we truly are, and see and sense with absolute clarity, G-d’s unconditional love for all of us.

You may reach the author at: Ravzt@ohelmoshebaltimore.com

Parshas Nitzavim discusses the eternal covenant with Hashem, the ingathering of exiles, the imperative of closeness to Torah, the notion of teshuva, and our ability to choose good. In Vayelech, Moshe appoints Yehoshua as his successor, encouraging him to be “strong and courageous.” Klal Yisroel is given the mitzvah of Hakhel, which included the assembly of men, women and children after the sabbatical year. Moshe is informed of the events after his passing. Hashem provides testimony for what the future holds. Moshe’s Torah scroll is placed with the Ark. The elders gather to hear the song of Ha’azinu.

Quote

”

“For the man of pure heart, there is no higher or more holy consciousness than that of having fulfilled the Divine will.”

-Rav S. R. Hirsch zt”l

GEMATRIA

The Roshei Teivos (first letters) of ‫ אתם נצבים היום‬spells ‫נאה‬, which means beautiful and befitting. Deep down, every yid is beautiful and ‫נאה‬ ‫למלכות‬, befitting of royalty. Rosh Hashana is a time when we stand before Hashem, the King of all kings, and in so doing, we realize that we are His beautiful children, befitting of royalty!

Inspiration. Everywhere.

Parshas Nitzavim/Vayelech

Thoughts in Chassidus

QUICK VORT

The Kedushas Levi highlights the words in the pasuk ’‫אתם נצבים היום כלכם לפני ה‬ ‫אלקיכם‬, all of you are standing today in front of Hashem, your G-d.

Rabbi Shneur Zalman of Liadi, the first Rebbe and founder of Chabad, known as the Alter Rebbe, would personally serve as the Baal Koreh in his shul in Liozna. One year, during the week of Parshas Ki Savo, which lists the many curses, the Alter Rebbe was away for Shabbos, so another person read the Torah portion in his place. The Alter Rebbe’s son, Dovber (who would later become the Mitteler Rebbe) was in shul that week, and upon hearing the curses, he fainted and became bedridden for a considerable time afterwards. When they asked the Mitteler Rebbe, “Don’t you hear this parshah every year?” he replied, “Yes, but when my father reads it, one doesn’t hear any curses.” Indeed, the Degel Machaneh Ephraim brings from the Zohar that the Tochacha – which appears at first glance as curses – is actually ‫כולה ברכות‬, it’s entirely blessings. This explains why the Tochacha begins with the word ‫והיה‬, a language of simcha! The Alter Rebbe was on such a high spiritual level and was able to connect to the deeper truth of the Tochacha. As such, when he read it, the congregation didn’t hear any curses whatsoever! Reb Shlomo, one of the great disciples of the Noam Elimelech, notes how we specifically read the Tochacha in an undertone — a whisper — because that’s how secrets are said. Beneath the surface of the curses, they actually contain the greatest secrets and blessings. If you think about it, what else is said in an undertone and whisper? The shofar! Regarding the sounding of the Shofar, we say: ‫קול דממה דקה ישמע‬. It is a small voice, a whisper. Maybe, then, it’s not a coincidence that there are 100 ‫קולות‬/whispers of the Shofar, and 100 ‫קללות‬/curses in the Tochacha (see Midrash Tanchuman, Nitzavim 1, who refers to the number of curses as 100, not 98). The commentaries explain that in spite of all the curses, NITZAVIM, we are standing. The Shofar, which requires us to be standing, reframes how the apparent curses are really all secrets and blessings.

His shiurim and other Jewish content can be found on YouTube, Torah Anytime and Meaningful Minute. He may be reached at rabbistrumo@gmail.com

Not behind, but ‫לפני‬, in front of Hashem. Hashem is YOUR G-D. The word ‫ לפני‬is the middah of ‫פנים‬, which means to turn. Hashem turns toward us and wants to bestow us with tremendous shefa and goodness. Don’t run away. Stand there and accept!

Did You Know?! The Torah tells us that the Torah is not in Heaven (‫)שמים‬, rather it’s right here. However, our Sages teach us that even if the Torah were to be in Heaven, we would need to figure out a way to get there!

Points to Ponder The Torah says “all of you” are standing before Hashem, and then goes on to listen the tribal leaders, elders, officials, children, etc. Just say “all of you” and then no need for the detailed list! What’s going on?

Scan the QR code to view Torah classes from R’ Ori Strum on Torah Anytime!

WWW.THEBJH.COM

On one hand, the 100 shofar blasts can be seen as a protection from the 100 curses. But perhaps on a deeper level, both the 100 ‫ קללות‬and corresponding 100 ‫קולות‬, really represent something much deeper: they whisper to us a special secret that every single thing we encounter and experience in life are, at their very core, the greatest blessings from Hashem.

Rabbi Ori Strum is the author of “Ready. Set. Grow.” “Dove Tales,” “Karpas: The Big Dipper,“ and “VEYIDGU: The Upstream Jew.”

Pesukim - 40/30 Words - 657/553 Letters - 2575/2123 Mitzvos - 0/2

SEPTEMBER 3-9, 2026

“

Quotable

Torah parks S

PARSHA STATS

THE BALTIMORE JEWISH HOME

PARSHA OVERVIEW

Elul 24

Elul 17

Monday Elul 18

Tishrei 17

‫יום כיפור‬

Tishrei 10

‫צום גדליה‬

Tishrei 3

8 Elul 26

Elul 19

Tuesday

‫חול המועד‬

Tishrei 18

Tishrei 11

Tishrei 4

Sample 354 Sale see page 27

BG Cubed Evening For Girls see page 3

Agudath Israel of America Fundraising Campaign see front cover

Elul 25

2026 Job Fair

at Shomrei Thursday Thursday

Elul 21

Elul 28

Next BJH Issue

Tishrei 6

Next BJH Issue

Tishrei 13

‫חול המועד‬

Tishrei 20

Sukkos Issue

Rosh Hashana Issue

Tishrei 21

6:40 PM

‫ערב סוכות‬

Tishrei 14

6:52 PM

Tishrei 7

7:03 PM

‫ערב ראש השנה‬

Elul 29

7:14 PM

Elul 22

Friday

Elul/Tishrei

‫הושענא רבה‬

Elul 23

Saturday

Tishrei 1 ‫ראש השנה‬

Tishrei 8

7:49 PM

Tishrei 15 ‫סוכות‬

‫שמיני עצרת‬

Tishrei 22

‫פרשת האזינו‬

‫וילך‬-‫ פרשת נצבים‬8:12 PM

Living Kiddush Hashem Event see page 55

2026 September/October

‫חול המועד‬

Tishrei 19

Tishrei 12

AIM Event see page 21

Tishrei 5

Elul 27

Elul 20

Wednesday

COMMUNITY CALENDAR 31

‫חול המועד‬

THE BALTIMORE JEWISH HOME

Sunday Sunday 30

Tishrei 16

‫ערב יום כיפור‬

Tishrei 9

‫ראש השנה‬

Tishrei 2

Hatzalah 2026 Arcove Carnival see page 2 Lev Elul Concert see page 13 Mesorah Shiur see page 17 Menucha Evening Of Inspiration see page 19 A Single Impact Clothing Sale see page 23

SEPTEMBER 3-9, 2026

27 ‫סוכות‬

Zmanim are courtesy of MyZmanim and are for the 21209 area. Shabbos ends with the emergence of 3 stars, some wait 72 minutes.

To have your future event listed in the Community Calendar please contact Ads@BaltimoreJewishHome.com

WWW.THEBJH.COM 40

Baltimore Weekday Minyanim Guide

Shacharis

Mercaz Torah U’Tefillah: EVERY 15 MINUTES

M, TH

For edits, additions, or sponsorships, email ads@baltimorejewishhome.com

M-F M, TH M-F M-F M, TH

7:30 AM Agudah of Greenspring S Agudath Israel of Baltimore S, T, W, F Ahavat Shalom [Sefaradi] S Bais Haknesses Ohr HaChaim S-F Bais Hamedrash and Mesivta of Baltimore S-F Bais Medrash of Ranchleigh S Beit Yaakov [Sefaradi] S Bnai Jacob Shaarei Zion Congregation S Chabad of Park Heights S Community Kollel Tiferes Moshe Aryeh S-F Darchei Tzedek S Kedushas Yisrael S-F Khal Bais Nosson S Ner Israel Rabbinical College (Mechina) S-F Ohr Hamizrach [Sefaradi] S, T, W, F Shomrei Emunah Congregation T, W, F 7:45 AM Bnai Jacob Shaarei Zion Congregation Talmudical Academy Darchei Tzedek Mesivta Kesser Torah Mesivta Shaarei Chaim Yeshivas Torah Simcha (school days only) 7:50 AM Derech Chaim Ner Tamid Ohel Moshe 8:00 AM Agudath Israel of Baltimore Bais Dovid-Bais Medrash of Summit Park Beth Abraham Chabad Israeli Center Darchei Tzedek Khal Ahavas Yisroel/ Tzemach Tzedek Kehillas Meor HaTorah Ohr Yisroel Pikesville Jewish Congregation Shearith Israel Congregation Shomrei Emunah Congregation The Shul at the Lubavitch Center Tiferes Yisroel Tzeirei Anash Yeshiva Tiferes Hatorah

M-F S-F M-F S-F S-F S-F S S M-F S-F S S M-F S S S S S S S-F S S S S-F

8:15 AM Kehilath B'nai Torah S Kol Torah S 8:20 AM Bais Haknesses Ohr HaChaim S-F Suburban Orthodox Congregation Toras Chaim S-F 8:30 AM Agudath Israel of Baltimore S-F Chabad Israeli Center S Machzikei Torah (Sternhill's) S-F Ohel Moshe S Ohr Hamizrach [Sefaradi] S Shomrei Emunah Congregation S-F Shomrei Mishmeres Hakodesh S 9:00 AM Aish Kodesh S Bais Haknesses Ohr HaChaim S Beth Tfiloh Congregation S Bnai Jacob Shaarei Zion Congregation S Moses Montefiore Anshe Emunah S Shomrei Emunah Congregation S-F Suburban Orthodox Congregation Toras Chaim S-F

Mincha

Mincha Mercaz Torah U’Tefillah Gedolah

Khal Ahavas Yisroel/Tzemach Tzedek 1:45 PM Ohel Moshe M-Th Yeshivas Torah Simcha (school days only) 1 South Street, 27th Floor. 1:50 PM Wealcatch Insurance - 37 Walker Ave 2nd floor 2:00 PM Agudath Israel of Baltimore (S-F) Big Al @ The Knish Shop Party Room

Mincha/Maariv Plag

Ohel Yaakov Shomrei Emunah Congregation Suburban Orthodox Congregation Toras Chaim

Mincha/Maariv Before Shkiah Aish Kodesh Agudath Israel of Baltimore Agudah of Greenspring Bais Dovid-Bais Medrash of Summit Park Bais Haknesses Ohr HaChaim Beth Abraham Bnai Jacob Shaarei Zion Congregation Darchei Tzedek Derech Chaim Kehillas Meor HaTorah Kehilath B’nai Torah Khal Ahavas Yisroel/ Tzemach Tzedek Machzikei Torah (Sternhill’s), 5:00pm Mercaz Torah U’Tefillah Ner Tamid Ohel Moshe Ohr Hamizrach [Sefaradi] Ohr Yisroel Pikesville Jewish Congregation Shearith Israel Congregation Shomrei Emunah Congregation Shomrei Mishmeres Suburban Orthodox Congregation Toras Chaim The Adas: Chofetz Chaim Adas Bnei Israel The Shul at the Lubavitch Center Tiferes Yisroel

Maariv Mercaz Torah U’Tefillah: EVERY 15 MINUTES 8:00 PM, 8:15 PM, 8:30 PM, 8:45 PM, 9:00 PM, 9:15 PM, 9:30 PM, 9:45 PM, 10:00 PM, 10:15 PM, 10:30 PM, 10:45 PM, 11:00 PM, 11:15 PM, 11:30 PM 8:00 PM 8:10 PM 8:15 PM 8:30 PM 8:45 PM

Agudath Israel of Baltimore Kol Torah

Khal Ahavas Yisroel/Tzemach Tzedek Agudath Israel of Baltimore Darchei Tzedek Ner Israel Rabbinical College (Mechina) Ohr Yisroel

8:50 PM Mesivta Shaarei Chaim (Etz Chaim Building) 8:55 PM Community Kollel Tiferes Moshe Aryeh 9:00 PM Agudath Israel of Baltimore Arugas Habosem Shomrei Emunah Congregation Suburban Orthodox Congregation Toras Chaim

9:15 PM Kehilas Bnei Yeshiva 9:20 PM Kol Torah 9:30 PM Agudah of Greenspring Agudath Israel of Baltimore Kedushas Yisrael

9:40 PM Ahavat Shalom [Sefaradi] 9:45 PM Bais Haknesses Ohr HaChaim Kollel Erev Birchas Yitzchok (Luries) Kollel of Greenspring Machzikei Torah (Sternhill's) Ohr Hamizrach [Sefaradi] Yeshiva Tiferes Hatorah

9:50 PM Aish Kodesh Community Kollel Tiferes Moshe Aryeh Ohel Moshe

10:00 PM Agudath Israel of Baltimore Darchei Tzedek Kehilath B'nai Torah Kehillas Shaarei Avodah Khal Ahavas Yisroel/ Tzemach Tzedek Ohr Yisrael Shearith Israel Congregation Shomrei Emunah Congregation

10:05 PM Kol Torah 10:10 PM Ner Israel Rabbinical College 10:15 PM Derech Chaim Khal Bais Nosson

10:30 PM Agudath Israel of Baltimore 11:00 PM Agudath Israel of Baltimore Agudah of Greenspring - 6107 Greenspring Ave Agudath Israel of Baltimore - 6200 Park Heights Ave Ahavat Shalom - 3009 Northbrook Rd Aish Kodesh - 6207 Ivymount Rd Arugas HaBosem - 3509 Clarks Ln Bais Dovid-Bais Medrash of Summit Park- 6800 Sylvale Ct Bais Haknesses Ohr HaChaim - 3120 Clarks Ln Bais Hamedrash and Mesivta of Baltimore - 6823 Old Pimlico Rd Bais Medrash of Ranchleigh - 6618 Deancroft Rd Beit Yaakov - 3615 Seven Mile Ln Beth Abraham - 6208 Wallis Ave Beth Tfiloh Congregation - 3300 Old Court Rd Bnai Jacob Shaarei Zion Congregation - 6602 Park Heights Ave Chabad Israeli Center - 7807 Seven Mile Ln Chabad of Park Heights - 3402 Clarks Ln Community Kollel Tiferes Moshe Aryeh - 3800 Labyrinth Rd Darchei Tzedek - 3201 Seven Mile Ln Derech Chaim - 6603 Pimlico Road Greenspring Sephardic Synagogue 6611 Greenspring Ave. Kedushas Yisrael - 6004 Park Heights Ave Kehilath B’nai Torah - 6301 Green Meadow Pkwy Kehilas Bnei Yeshiva - 6700 Cross Country Blvd Kehillas Meor HaTorah - 6539 Pebble Brooke Rd Khal Ahavas Yisroel/ Tzemach Tzedek - 6811 Park Heights Ave Khal Bais Nosson - 2901 Taney Rd Kol Torah - 2929 Fallstaff Rd Kollel of Greenspring - 6504 Greenspring Ave. Machzikei Torah - 6216 Biltmore Ave Mercaz Torah U’Tefillah - 6500 Baythorne Rd Mesivta Kesser Torah - 8400 Park Heights Ave Mesivta Shaarei Chaim - 5415 Greenspring Ave Moses Montefiore Anshe Emunah - 7000 Rockland Hills Dr Neuberger, Quinn, Gielen, Rubin & Gibber One South Street, 27th Floor Ner Israel Rabbinical College - 400 Mt Wilson Ln Ner Tamid - 6214 Pimlico Road Ohel Moshe - 2808 Smith Ave Ohel Yakov - 3200 Glen Ave Ohr Hamizrach [Sefaradi] - 6813 Park Heights Ave Ohr Yisroel - 2429 Lightfoot Dr Pikesville Jewish Congregation - 7644 Carla Rd Shearith Israel Congregation - 5835 Park Heights Ave Shomrei Emunah Congregation - 6221 Greenspring Ave Shomrei Mishmeres Hakodesh - 2821 W Strathmore Ave Suburban Orthodox Congregation Toras Chaim - 7504 Seven Mile Ln Talmudical Academy - 4445 Old Court Rd The Adas: Chofetz Chaim Adas Bnei Israel - 5915 Park Heights Ave The Shul at the Lubavitch Center - 6701 Old Pimlico Rd Tiferes Yisroel - 6201 Park Heights Ave Tzeirei Anash - 6706 Cross County Blvd Wealcatch Insurance - 37 Walker Ave 2nd floor Yeshiva Tiferes Hatorah - 6819 Williamson Ave

WWW.THEBJH.COM

7:05 AM Machzikei Torah (Sternhill's)

Tzeirei Anash 7:20 AM Agudath Israel of Baltimore Beth Tfiloh Congregation Kol Torah Shomrei Emunah Congregation

Kol Torah Market Maven Reischer Minyan - 23 Walker Ave 2nd Floor 10055 Red Run Blvd Suite 295 2:15 PM Pikesville Beis Medrash - 15 Walker Ave 2:30 PM Bais Medrash of Ranchleigh Community Kollel Tiferes Moshe Aryeh Tov Pizza Mincha Minyan Ner Israel Rabbinical College Mesivta Shaarei Chaim (Community Kollel) Shearith Israel Congregation 2:45 PM Kollel of Greenspring Shearith Israel Congregation (S-Th) 3:00 PM Bais Haknesses Ohr HaChaim Mercaz Torah U'Tefillah 3:05 PM Kedushas Yisrael 3:15 PM Hat Box 3:30 PM Mercaz Torah U’Tefillah 4:00 PM Agudath Israel of Baltimore (S-Th) Mercaz Torah U'Tefillah 4:30 PM Mercaz Torah U’Tefillah 5:00 PM Agudath Israel of Baltimore (S-F) Mercaz Torah U’Tefillah 5:30 PM Agudath Israel of Baltimore (S-Th) Mercaz Torah U’Tefillah 6:00 PM Agudath Israel of Baltimore (S-F) Mercaz Torah U’Tefillah Shearith Israel Congregation (S-Th) 6:30 PM Mercaz Torah U’Tefillah 10 Min Before ShkiAh Chabad Israeli Center 14 Min Before ShkiAh Kol Torah

Maariv continued

SEPTEMBER 3-9, 2026

Beit Yaakov [Sefaradi] M-F Mercaz Torah U’Tefillah S-F Ohel Yakov S-F Ohr Hamizrach [Sefaradi] S-F 6:00 AM Shomrei Emunah Congregation M-F 6:10 AM Agudath Israel of Baltimore M, Th 6:15 AM Kol Torah M, TH Shearith Israel Congregation M, TH M, TH 6:20 AM Agudah of Greenspring Agudath Israel of Baltimore S, T, W, F Arugas HaBosem (Rabbi Taub's) S-F Bais Dovid-Bais Medrash of Summit Park M-F Bnai Jacob Shaarei Zion Congregation M-F Kehilath B'nai Torah M, TH Pikesville Jewish Congregation M, TH Shomrei Emunah Congregation S, M, TH 6:30 AM Agudah of Greenspring T, W, F Chabad of Park Heights M-F Darchei Tzedek M-F Kehilath B'nai Torah T, W, F Khal Bais Nosson M-F Khal Ahavas Yisroel/ Tzemach Tzedek M-F Kol Torah T, W, F Ohr Yisroel M-F Pikesville Jewish Congregation T, W, F Shearith Israel Congregation T, W, F Shomrei Emunah Congregation T, W, F 6:35 AM Aish Kodesh (downstairs Minyan) M, TH Ohel Moshe M, TH 6:40 AM Aish Kodesh (downstairs Minyan) T, W, F Bnai Jacob Shaarei Zion Congregation M, TH Ohr Hamizrach [Sefaradi] M-F 6:45 AM The Adas: Chofetz Chaim Adas Bnei Israel M, Th B”H and Mesivta of Baltimore (Dirshu Minyan) S-F Beth Abraham M, TH Greenspring Sephardic Synagogue M-F Kehilas Bnei Yeshiva M-F Ner Tamid M-F Ohel Moshe T, W, F Suburban Orthodox Congregation Toras Chaim M-F 6:50 AM Agudath Israel of Baltimore M, TH Ahavat Shalom [Sefaradi] M, TH Bais Medrash of Ranchleigh M, TH Bnai Jacob Shaarei Zion Congregation T, W, F Community Kollel Tiferes Moshe Aryeh M, TH Derech Chaim M-F Kol Torah M-F Ohel Moshe S Ohr Hamizrach [Sefaradi] M, TH Shomrei Emunah Congregation M, TH The Shul at the Lubavitch Center M, TH 6:55 AM Beth Abraham T, W, F Kol Torah M, TH The Adas: Chofetz Chaim Adas Bnei Israel T, W, F 7:00 AM Aish Kodesh (upstairs Minyan) M-F Agudath Israel of Baltimore S, T, W, F Ahavat Shalom [Sefaradi] T, W, F Arugas HaBosem (Rabbi Taub's) S Bais Medrash of Ranchleigh T, W, F Community Kollel Tiferes Moshe Aryeh T, W, F Greenspring Sephardic Synagogue S Khal Ahavas Yisroel/ Tzemach Tzedek S Kol Torah T, W, F Moses Montefiore Anshe Emunah M-F Ohr Hamizrach [Sefaradi] S, T, W, F Shearith Israel Congregation S, M, TH Shomrei Emunah Congregation T, W, F Shomrei Mishmeres Hakodesh M-F The Shul at the Lubavitch Center T, W, F Tiferes Yisroel M-F Neitz

Mincha

THE BALTIMORE JEWISH HOME

M-F: 6:15 AM, S-F: 6:30 AM, 6:45 AM, 7:00 AM, 7:15 AM, 7:30 AM, 7:45 AM, 8:00 AM, 8:15 AM, 8:30 AM, 8:45 AM, 9:00AM, 9:15AM, 9:30AM, 9:45AM, 10:00AM

7:15 AM Kedushas Yisrael S Kol Torah S Machzikei Torah (Sternhill's) S, T, W, F Ner Israel Rabbinical College S-F Shearith Israel Congregation T, W, F Shomrei Emunah Congregation S Suburban Orthodox Congregation Toras Chaim S The Adas: Chofetz Chaim Adas Bnei Israel S

WWW.THEBJH.COM THE BALTIMORE JEWISH HOME

SEPTEMBER 3-9, 2026 42

THE BALTIMORE JEWISH HOME

SEPTEMBER 3-9, 2026

WWW.THEBJH.COM

THE BALTIMORE JEWISH HOME

SEPTEMBER 3-9, 2026

Israel Today

One Pair of Boots. One Conversation. One Incredible Ripple Effect.

n February 2024, Yakir Wachstock was in Israel on a mission with members of his community from New York. During the trip, he met an Israeli soldier on duty in Kfar Aza who had recently been serving in the reserves. The soldier began sharing some of what he had experienced on and after October 7. Somewhere along the way, one small need came up. He needed boots. Through Just One Chesed’s Boots for Israel project, we were able to get him a pair. It could have ended there. A soldier needed something. Someone stepped in to help. A simple act of chesed. But that is rarely where chesed ends. Yakir and the soldier stayed in touch. Months later, Yakir reached out with an invitation. “Will you be in New York this summer? We have an amazing event in the Hamptons, and we’re looking for a guest hero to share his story.” The soldier said yes. He would be in New York, and he asked if he could bring his wife and children. The family arrived several hours before the event, giving them some much needed time to relax together by the pool. Later that evening, the soldier spoke for just a few minutes, sharing a small piece of what he and so many Israeli reservists had experienced since October 7. One of the people listening was Michael Dube, whose organization, Moments To Memories Fund, is dedicated to creating meaningful and unforgettable experiences for individuals and families who could use something special to lift them up. Michael heard the soldier’s story

and immediately wanted to do something for his family. He asked a simple question: “Have your kids ever been to a Broadway show?” They had not. That one question turned into an experience the family never could have expected. Michael and Moments To Memories Fund sent the entire family to see Aladdin on Broadway. Then came a Mets game and dinner! And somehow, the surprises kept coming. During the Mets game, Yakir received a picture of the family enjoying the experience. By coincidence, Yakir’s own children were at that very same game. They go to baseball games often and had become pretty good at getting players to toss baseballs into the stands. Yakir immediately thought of the soldier’s children. “See if you can get them baseballs.” They did.

light up as their father was treated like a hero. Because they had sacrificed, too. They had lived through the absences, the worry, the uncertainty, and the long stretches when their father was away serving in miluim. Their mother had carried an enormous burden at

You help one soldier, but you never know where that kindness will travel.

Soon, the family had baseballs to bring home as one more memory from an already unforgettable experience. For Yakir, though, the most meaningful part was not Broadway, the baseball game, the dinner, or even the gifts. It was watching the soldier’s children

home. Their father had only recently finished another period of reserve duty, and the family was simply trying to decompress, reconnect, and enjoy being together again. For a few days, they were not being asked to sacrifice.

They were being cared for. Celebrated. Seen. And it all began with one pair of boots. One need led to one act of kindness. That act led to a relationship. That relationship led to another person hearing the story. And that person helped create memories this family will carry with them for years. But remarkably, the story does not end there. Now, that same chayal is preparing to return to miluim. And this time, he reached back out to us. Members of his unit are in need of proper military boots before returning to service. The soldier who once received a single pair of boots through Just One Chesed is now helping us identify 80 fellow soldiers in his unit who need boots of their own. And once again, we have the opportunity to say yes. We will be raising the funds to provide boots for all 80 soldiers before they head back into service. That is the ripple effect of chessed. You help one soldier, but you never know where that kindness will travel. A pair of boots becomes a friendship. A friendship becomes an unforgettable experience for a family. And eventually, that same connection comes full circle and creates the opportunity to help 80 more soldiers. This is what we mean when we say Just One Chesed. Because one act of kindness is almost never just one act. One chessed creates another. And another. And another.

THE BALTIMORE JEWISH HOME

YAKIRA BELLA

Playfully Sophisticated, Tastefully Bold

SEPTEMBER 3-9, 2026

WWW.THEBJH.COM

SEPTEMBER 3-9, 2026

Political Crossfire

Inside Afghanistan’s Secret Schools for Girls

THE BALTIMORE JEWISH HOME

By Elian Peltier

Girls in a classroom in a madrassa in Afghanistan in 2026

WWW.THEBJH.COM

yesha goes to a secret school six days a week, mainly to keep seeing people outside her home. It’s the only way to avoid total isolation under Taliban rule, she says. It’s the only way to feel alive. “Without that connection,” she said, “I don’t know what would happen to me.” Now 18, Ayesha once dreamed of studying psychology at university. The Taliban ended that dream when they banned formal education for girls beyond sixth grade in 2022. But Ayesha has been defying the Taliban’s rules for years, sitting in a classroom hidden behind the corridors of a primary school. Thousands of such programs operate across the country under the Taliban’s radar. Clandestine schools were once seen as a stopgap, a way for girls to keep up with their education until the Taliban were gone. But five years after the Taliban’s return to power, nearly 2.5 million Afghan girls have been locked out of secondary school. They can go to religious schools or study at home with private instruction. But across the country, girls are risking arrest by going to school in secret. Others fail sixth grade on purpose, to remain in their

classrooms for as long as possible. Principals, teachers and parents operate the schools through a clandestine effort, fighting for what they fear may be a lost cause: to save a generation of girls from ignorance. The Taliban’s leaders do not appear willing to rescind the ban, even while some local officials tolerate the secret schools, worried about denying their own daughters an education. In interviews with more than 50 students, educators, therapists and parents, many said they feared the ban would do permanent damage — to girls and to Afghanistan’s social fabric. All asked to be identified only by their first names, for fear of retaliation. Even girls who finish their education have few prospects; the Taliban have banned women from most jobs, and opportunities to go abroad are scarce. Reports of suicidal thoughts, self-harm and rates of underage marriage are on the rise, according to teachers and humanitarian organizations. Nevertheless, some girls refuse to give up their fight for an education. “We are also part of this society,” Ayesha said. “Just let us be who we want to be.”

The Hidden Passageway Late one night recently, Ayesha received a text from her friend Zuhal, 17, who said she would not be coming to class the next day. Zuhal’s father had beaten her, saying that there was no point in attending an underground school. Ayesha recalls crying as she read Zuhal’s message. She has become known among her friends as the one they can confide in, the apprentice therapist. She said she prayed in her bedroom and urged Zuhal to come back. “If you sit at home, it’s finished for you,” Ayesha told her. “Nobody else is going to do anything for you.” Zuhal returned to school a few days later but said she would be able to come only when her father is away. Ayesha’s secret classroom is concealed inside an official primary school. The playground is filled with the shouts of younger students, and hundreds of tiny, colorful shoes are lined up at the entrance to the building. But beyond their classrooms, a door leads to a hidden passageway tucked behind a corner, which leads to the secret classroom for older girls. To avoid detection, the students vary their routes to the school and avoid walk-

ing in groups. Still, now and then, the Taliban burst into the school unannounced, as they did one morning in July during Ayesha’s midyear physics exams. The principal locked the students inside, and 14 young women kept scribbling in silence. The classroom remains undiscovered. On one occasion, when the girls were not at school, the Taliban tore down the artwork on the walls in a common room near the classroom, Ayesha recalled. There used to be a time, students and a teacher explained, when a Taliban inspection would send them fleeing through the back door, or rushing to the basement where they would lock themselves in the dark and shush those who cried. As the students moved up to Grade 12, Taliban visits don’t frighten them as much anymore. Many said they feel contempt for the group. “Are they expecting the country to develop by depriving half of the population of education?” said Palwasha, one of Ayesha’s classmates. “We don’t want anything other than the basic rights Islam gave us.” Only a tiny fraction of girls in Afghanistan can receive a secondary education through secret schools; even fewer, like

VALID FRI.−THURS. | AUG. 28–SEP. 10, 2026

$ 79

$ 49

Empire Kosher Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts

Empire Kosher Chicken Leg Quarters

Giant Cream Cheese Bar

$ 49

/lb.

Grade A 7882203

$ 99 Manischewitz Egg Noodles

Selected Varieties, 12 oz. pkg. 7832314

$ 99 Dr. Brown’s Soda

Selected Varieties, 6/12 fl. oz. cans 7832332

Kedem Tea Biscuits

Selected Varieties, 4.2 oz. pkg. 7832263

$ 49 /ea.

Round Challah Bread

Grade A 7882205

$ 99 Manischewitz Matzo Ball Mix

Selected Varieties, 4.5–5 oz. pkg. 7832318

$ 79 Kedem Sparkling Grape Juice

Selected Varieties, 8 oz. pkg. 7882984

Lipton Soup Mix

Selected Varieties, 1.9–4.8 oz. pkg. 7832294

$ 99 Kedem 100% Pure Grape Juice

Selected Varieties, 25.4–25.5 fl. oz. btl. 7832275 64 fl. oz. btl. 7843848

$ 39 Osem Wafers

Selected Varieties, 8.8 oz. pkg. 7832352

$ 99 Lieber’s Rice or Corn Cakes

$ 49 Gefen Cake

15.89 oz. pkg. 7832249

$ 99

2/$5

Pomegranates

Sweet and Juicy 7881522

Giant Walnuts

6.5 oz. pkg. 7881537

Tabatchnick Frozen Soup

99¢

$ 49 Tabatchnick Broth or Soup

Selected Varieties, 32 oz. pkg. 7832200

$ 99

$ 99 Selected Varieties, 14.5–15 oz. pkg. 7832210

Gefen Honey Bear

Yehuda Memorial Candle

$ 49

12 oz. squeeze btl. 7832232

$ 99 Golden Blintzes

Selected Varieties, 6 ct. pkg. 7832238

$ 99

Lieber’s Chocolate Covered Rice Cakes Kvuzat Yavne Cucumbers in Brine

Plain or Raisin, Found in Our Bakery Department 7877952 Selected Varieties, 2.9–3.1 oz. pkg. 7832290 Selected Varieties, 3.1 oz. pkg. 7879746

2/$7

19 oz. can 7832283

1 ct. candle 7832226

Golden Vegetable Pancakes Selected Varieties, 8 ct. pkg. 7832253

$ 99 Mrs. Adler’s Gefilte Fish

Selected Varieties, 24 oz. jar 7832230

We sell kosher and non-kosher foods. Not all products kosher for Rosh Hashanah. Not all items available in all stores. While supplies last. Prices effective 8/28–9/10/26. © Giant of Maryland, LLC. Quantity limits could apply. No sales in case lots or to retail merchants/ wholesalers. Prices may differ for online orders (Giant Pickup or Giant Delivers). Minimum spend requirements must be met after discounts and coupons, and before sales taxes, are applied. We reserve the right to correct or modify offers that are not accurately represented.

26_36_L779__ACCO_Baltimore Jewish Home.indd 1

8/18/26 9:34 AM

WWW.THEBJH.COM

5/$5

/lb.

SEPTEMBER 3-9, 2026

HAPPY ROSH HASHANAH

THE BALTIMORE JEWISH HOME

L’SHANAH Tovah

WWW.THEBJH.COM

THE BALTIMORE JEWISH HOME

SEPTEMBER 3-9, 2026

48 Ayesha and Palwasha, study an international curriculum and speak English fluently. Palwasha wants to launch her own clothing brand. Ayesha knows she won’t be able to study psychology at a university in Afghanistan when she graduates, so she counsels her classmates. This is the extent of Ayesha’s social life, and it will vanish in a few months. There is no secret school after Grade 12. “Girls, you are here now,” Ayesha recalled their teacher saying as they sat down for their midyear exam. “But at this time next year, you will be at home.”

Computer Science and Duolingo The Taliban have taken credit for one measure of success in education: Primary school enrollment for girls rose from 78% in 2021 to 87% in 2024, according to UNESCO and UNICEF. That’s mainly because day-to-day security has improved across Afghanistan since the war ended with the U.S. withdrawal in 2021. Schools that had been closed reopened, and crossing a street to reach a classroom no longer presents a daily danger. But the overall picture is alarming. Nine out of 10 Afghan children age 10 cannot read an age-appropriate piece of writing, according to UNESCO. Only 1 in 4 Afghan women is literate. Girls who want to continue their education sometimes face additional obstacles from their families. Laila, 21, joined a secret school to study computer science and languages two years ago, more than 500 miles from her home in one of Afghanistan’s most conservative provinces. She said she threatened to kill herself if her family did not let her attend. On a recent morning, she worked on computer science and Duolingo lessons in a clandestine Grade 11 classroom. In the school’s darkened corridors, students walked silently past colorful presentations on the human body and the solar system. Dozens more studied in the basement library. Laila and hundreds of other girls take in-person classes by day and online by night with volunteer tutors around the world, from the United States to the Netherlands to Hong Kong, most of them high school students in a global network of peer-to-peer support. Even two years after enrolling, Laila faces surprise visits from her younger brother, who tells her she has dishonored the family by being “so free.” Her father is more open-minded but fears gossip if a relative or neighbor finds out, Laila said.

Laila now speaks four languages fluently, including English, and is learning Korean. If she can leave the country after graduation, she said she will study graphic design in Canada or South Korea. “I want to share these opportunities with other girls from my province, but I can’t,” Laila said. During their first rule, between 1996 and 2001, the Taliban banned primary and secondary education for girls, argu-

even religious schools, which are permitted for older girls, face an array of rules and frequent, sometimes surprise, inspections. When they see the Taliban approach, the guards at Laila’s school warn the teachers and the principal by walkie-talkies and then sound a distinctive bell to alert the students. Najib, the school principal, said that when he asked some unfamiliar Taliban

bear seeing them cry. She no longer has an answer when they ask her, “What was this all for?” When her own daughter, Kowsar, completed sixth grade, Tasnim persuaded a colleague to take her into her class so she could repeat by taking the spot of an absent student. Her daughter’s graduation certificate reads “Successfully promoted to Grade 7.” “We try to make them happy,” Tasnim said. “But there’s no Grade 7.”

Dreaming of the Taliban

Five years after the Taliban’s return to power, nearly 2.5 million Afghan girls have been locked out of secondary school.

ing that secular schools were contrary to their hard-line vision of Islam. They said it was a temporary measure, until they could establish a more compatible education system, but they never did. After coming back to power in 2021, they made similar claims about the public school system that expanded during the 20-year U.S. occupation, and still maintain that the ban is temporary. “We hope that one day girls schools will reopen,” the Taliban’s spokesperson, Zabihullah Mujahid, said in an interview earlier this year. “This situation also deeply affects many officials of the Islamic Emirate who have daughters,” he added, referring to the name the Taliban have given to Afghanistan. But five years into their second rule, the temporary ban once again appears permanent. The ban comes directly from Kandahar, the group’s seat of power in the south and home to its secretive leader, Sheikh Hibatullah Akhundzada. Many Taliban officials privately say it should be lifted, but no one challenges their leader’s order. In practice, many Taliban turn a blind eye to schools operating in secret. The principal at one secret school, where some girls pay fees if their families are able, said he had enrolled the sons of Taliban intelligence officers for free to maintain a cordial relationship. They know Laila’s school well: Taliban police and intelligence officers visit weekly to ensure that female students wear their hijabs correctly and don’t mix with boys, who attend the same school legally. But they can order the school shut at any time. All schools in Afghanistan,

officers to show him their ID on a recent visit, one shouted, “My ID is my gun.” “And my gun is my pen,” Najib said he replied. He cited Quranic verses about the imperative to educate all children, and that seemed to satisfy them. The Taliban left.

Failing in Order to Succeed Many younger Afghan girls try to delay as long as possible what Ayesha and Laila are going through. In December, Somaya, 12, took her sixth grade final exams but skipped the tests in Dari language, social studies and Quran studies, hoping to fail and repeat her final year. “I love going to school,” she said. “I simply wanted to stay.” Weeks later, Somaya’s teacher told her she could come back. There was only room for her in Grade 4, so she sometimes helps teach since she already knows the curriculum. Fatima, 12, a student at another school, tore up her final sixth grade tests last year, hoping that her teachers would fail her and let her repeat the grade. But they passed Fatima anyway, she said. As Fatima spoke softly in her family’s living room in Kabul, her father, Azizullah, wept and left the room. “I cry when I think about how often she says she wants to be a doctor, and how now it’s all over,” Azizullah said. But Fatima bounced back. Weeks later, she passed an entrance exam for an underground school. Tasnim, a primary schoolteacher, said she leaves the farewell parties for her Grade 6 students because she can’t

The restrictions on women and girls are the primary reason the world has shunned the Taliban, but they have promoted religious schools, or madrassas, as an alternative. The girls in those schools must wear black coverings from head to toe, and they are allowed to study science and English as well as religious subjects. Zala, a sixth grade student, plans to enroll in a religious school after leaving primary school. “At least we still have an opportunity to keep studying,” she said. Other students say the madrassas are a poor substitute. Classes deemed less important than religious ones — physics, chemistry and mathematics — are merged into one. And girls are not permitted to use the more advanced curriculum for boys. “These subjects are pushing us ideologically toward the Taliban,” Zahida, 17, said about Islamic studies, religious history and discussions about politics and jihad led by teachers who embrace the Taliban’s hard-line views. Ezat, Ayesha’s principal, recently turned the school where her classroom is hidden into a madrassa to ease pressure from the Taliban. He said he hopes teachers can keep providing what he described as a “modern education.” To what extent and for how long, he does not know. After the Taliban formalized their ban on education in 2022, many teachers were left without jobs. They kept teaching for free, or for smaller salaries at schools that remained open, or in underground classes across the country. Many say they feel disillusioned. At a recent staff meeting, employees in a secret school in Kabul talked about how to keep motivating students. “But who is motivating us?” Kamela, one of the teachers, remembered thinking. “I see the Taliban in my dreams,” she said. “They’re running after us, beating us and closing the school.” © The New York Times

BUSINESS OWNERS

Maryland Paid Family Medical Leave is Here

SEPTEMBER 3-9, 2026

Is it less expensive to go private or with the state?

THE BALTIMORE JEWISH HOME

ATTENTION

Let us help you compare the options.

Declaration of intent is due by November 15, 2026. Call us now to get the quoting process started.

www.MDFAMLI.com

Call us:

410-483-8888

Email:

MDFAMLI@thecolumbiagroup.net Columbia Group LLC is an independent insurance brokerage - not affiliated with or endorsed by the State of Maryland. Official program info: paidleave.maryland.gov

WWW.THEBJH.COM

Visit our information site:

Mental Health Corner By Rabbi Azriel Hauptman

Levi, now in the throes of middle age, has begun to succumb to the harsh realities of a sedentary lifestyle. His blood pressure is alarmingly high, his weight has ballooned, and his physical endurance has plummeted. But, heeding his physician’s advice, Levi began incorporating a daily brisk walk into his routine,

a potentially life-saving component of any health regimen. One fateful day, a reckless driver jumped the curb and collided with Levi, leaving him with severe injuries. In a cruel twist of fate, it could be said that Levi experienced a paradoxical reaction, whereby his proactive steps towards better health led to a breakdown in his health.

WWW.THEBJH.COM

THE BALTIMORE JEWISH HOME

SEPTEMBER 3-9, 2026

Paradoxical Reactions A paradoxical reaction describes a situation in which a treatment that was intended to alleviate symptoms actually exacerbates them or causes new symptoms to arise. For example, benzodiazepines, such as Xanax, Ativan, or Valium, almost always help people feel calm and relaxed. There are isolated cases where they trigger a spike in anxiety and agitation. This begs the question: can paradoxical reactions manifest in psychotherapy, a field where the goal is to heal and promote emotional well-being? Undoubtedly, paradoxical reactions can occur in psychotherapy. However, in life, nothing is entirely risk-free, and the same applies to therapy. But, should you forgo seeking psychotherapy altogether? Absolutely not. Instead, you should take necessary precautions to reduce your risk and forge ahead. Consider the case of Levi, who, despite being struck by a vehicle while walking on a sidewalk, should not discourage anyone from taking a stroll. Similarly, the potential for a paradoxical reaction should not deter one from seeking psychotherapy. What are the risk factors for experiencing a paradoxical reaction in psychotherapy?

Repair and/or replace: Hot Water Tanks • Sump Pumps • Faucets • Toilets • Garbage Disposals • Instant Hots • Dish Washers • Dryers • Washing Machines • Light Fixtures • Switches • Dimmers • Outside Lighting • Fans • Timers • and more...

Licensed • Bonded • Insured

410-929-2802 Saadya Cohen, Owner

In essence, therapy is akin to openheart surgery on one’s soul, and therefore the therapist must be adequately trained in administering their chosen therapeutic modality while ensuring the client’s emotional safety during the process of unearthing deep-seated emotions. Allow us to provide you with some illustrative examples. Individuals who have undergone traumatic experiences may seek therapy to alleviate the severe distress caused by their suppressed emotions. Frequently, the therapeutic process necessitates resurfacing those repressed emotions, enabling patients to process and confront them under the guidance of a therapist. As such, therapists must possess the necessary training to steer their clients through this tumultuous journey while prioritizing their emotional safety, even when emotions are unexpectedly triggered. This requires expertise in maintaining an emotionally safe environment and effective techniques to help clients manage intense feelings. A therapist’s ability to handle such situations while preventing adverse outcomes is vital to prevent the occurrence of a paradoxical reaction in therapy. Another area where paradoxical reactions can arise is in the treatment of anxiety disorders. Many anxiety disorders require

confronting one’s fears and anxieties headon. This process necessitates expertise and extensive training to navigate successfully. The manner in which a therapist guides their client through exposure therapy can either lead to the development of effective anxiety management skills or worsen the client’s anxiety, leaving them in a more vulnerable state than when they started. Thus, it is vital to ensure that therapists have proper training to tailor exposure therapy to their clients’ individual needs, ensuring that they receive the appropriate level of guidance and support while engaging with their anxieties. Paradoxical reactions can also occur in marital therapy. When a couple seeks therapy, they must delve into the underlying issues that are contributing to their strife, and this process can be emotionally taxing. Without proper training, a therapist may inadvertently unleash a storm of issues that leaves the couple worse off than when they began, potentially even leading to divorce. Establishing a safe environment that facilitates productive work on the marriage is a complex undertaking and requires an experienced and well-trained therapist. A skilled therapist can create a supportive atmosphere for the couple to work through their issues and guide them through the process of addressing their problems while maintaining their emotional safety. In life, as in therapy, there are no guarantees, and nothing is entirely risk-free. But as with any worthwhile endeavor, the potential for risk should not deter us from pursuing our goals. Like a skilled surgeon who operates with precision and care, a well-trained therapist can guide us through the complex terrain of our emotions, ensuring our emotional safety while helping us confront suppressed feelings and fears. Paradoxical reactions may arise, but with the right therapist, they can be minimized, and the journey towards healing and self-discovery can continue. So, take that first step, choose your therapist wisely, and embrace the transformative power of therapy. It’s time to heal, grow, and thrive. This is a service of Relief Resources. Relief is an organization that provides mental health referrals, education, and support to the frum community. Rabbi Yisrael Slansky is director of the Baltimore branch of Relief. He can be contacted at 410-448-8356 or at yslansky@reliefhelp.org

410.775.5440 | www.amfcreative.com | hello@amfcreative.com

WWW.THEBJH.COM

BRANDING WEBSITES GRAPHIC DESIGN CAMPAIGNS

SEPTEMBER 3-9, 2026

WALL OF FAME

THE BALTIMORE JEWISH HOME

JOIN OUR

THE BALTIMORE JEWISH HOME

SEPTEMBER 3-9, 2026

To Raise a Laugh Your Teeth Are Blue

f you’ve just had a baby, and you’re wondering, “Hey, I’m going to have a lot of simchas coming up over the next few years, and I want to throw a little lowstress simcha – sort of like a starter simcha to ease myself into fatherhood… Also, I’m apparently doing it by myself, because my wife isn’t home. What can I do?” I would recommend making a sholom zachor. A sholom zachor is a perfect starter simcha, because half the time it’s just men, no one’s really hungry, you don’t need music or a photographer or seating cards, and no one has expectations. If you put out something that’s not so desserty, like chickpeas, people will eat chickpeas. If people show up at a sholom zachor and you have one bottle of schnapps and a single cake, everyone will say, “Alright.” No one will say, “I can’t believe that he had no food. Your wife had a baby two hours ago! Get it together, man!” One reason that nobody expects much is that most of the time, your wife has the baby so late in the week that she’s not home for the sholom zachor. Most women aim for this. That’s why they say things like, “I hope to have this baby by the end of the week.”

WWW.THEBJH.COM

By Mordechai Schmutter

Wait a minute. Why don’t you hope to have it by the beginning of the week? In a way, it’s better if your wife isn’t home. Not that you’re going to make her get up and help, but she’s going to want to. Especially when she hears something crash in the kitchen and then you telling the kids, “It’s okay; nothing happened. Just put it back on the platter.” That’s not to say that you can’t get help. A lot of times, especially if this is your first baby, your parents or in-laws will offer to make the sholom zachor, which, if you don’t live in the same town as them, means that you’ll sit there all Friday night while your shver’s friends walk in and say, “Which one’s the father?”

People have their in-laws or parents make the first few sholom zachors until they figure out that it’s really not that hard. You buy enough food to fill your table, and then a half hour before Shabbos, your neighbors bring enough food that you wonder why you bought all that food. It’s by far the easiest simcha to make. You don’t even need a fruit platter. “But how much food do I need?” you ask. The correct amount of food to put out at a sholom zachor is the amount that fits the table. If you don’t have a lot of food, you just make your table smaller, and that way more people have room to sit. Everyone just kind of eats whatever’s directly in front of him when he sits down, because there are too many things on the table, and to pass anything, they have to move everything else around and it’s not worth it because they just ate and they’re not that hungry in the first place. And then at some point someone gets up to leave, and everybody switches chairs ostensibly so they’ll be closer to the baal simcha, but really it’s just about sitting in front of different foods. Like there’s a specific seat you’re eyeing. “Hey, you’re next to me now! We can talk!” “No, I’m here for the Mike and Ikes. I’ve been sitting in front of the chickpeas for the last half hour.” And there aren’t even specific foods that you have to buy. Sure, there are minhagim for chickpeas or beer, but it’s not like you have to have enough to go around. You don’t need to make sure that everyone gets their own personal bowl of chickpeas when they come in. Like they climb over everyone’s laps to say, “Mazel tov,” and you hand them a bowl of chickpeas. You basically just have one small bowl in middle of the table, and everyone looks at it and goes, “Oh good, there’s chickpeas. I’m at the right place.” Where do all these chickpeas come from? I know that people bring cake and candy. Are people bringing chickpeas?

The only thing you HAVE to have, apparently, are those hard winky things that look like pacifiers, and they have to be blue. But someone will bring that. And things don’t even have to be set up that nicely. Most sholom zachors are just attended by men, because half the time the new mother isn’t home. It’s the women that bring the cakes on Friday afternoon, and they don’t even come to the sholom zachor. And then the men come home, and the women ask, “Were people eating my cake?” “I honestly don’t know. I had a piece. Why, do you want it back?” And even if the new mother is home, any women who show up have very little interest in the food. They just want to hold the baby. FUN FACT: If no women show up, the men all fight over who’s going to hold the baby. And no one really wants to stay for long either. Everyone’s just waiting for someone else to come so they have an excuse to leave and go to sleep. “Oh I just want to make a seat for him.” Because that’s how it works: When someone new comes, someone who’s been there for a while gets to leave. That’s why the last people who come end up staying forever – because nobody comes to relieve them. At least if your wife is home or you have some other relatives there, they can start cleaning as you sit there so the last person can get the hint. If no one’s there, or all your helpful relatives went to sleep so it’s just you and him, that guy is not leaving. Until your talmidim come in and say it’s time for the morning Shema. So it’s good to get some talmidim. Or to hire some ahead of time. If you don’t, you will not get any sleep, which is good practice for fatherhood. Mordechai Schmutter is a freelance writer and a humor columnist for Hamodia and other magazines. He has also published eight books anddoesstand-upcomedy.Youcancontacthimat MSchmutter@gmail.com.

HALF PAGE TEMPLATE

Not sure where to start? “1. Get Insurance!”

.5” Bleed Area- To avoid a white border you must extend your image /background color to fill this green box. Individual and Family Life Health Insurance Insurance 5”wide x 3.995” high Safe AreaKeep all important design elements in this box. Dental Insurance Disability

Business Group Policies

Insurance

CALL US TODAY! 410.483.8888 Enroll Instantly

www.quotebymyself.com OR email a quote request to: quote@thecolumbiagroup.net

SEPTEMBER 3-9, 2026

Travel Medical Insurance

THE BALTIMORE JEWISH HOME

Final Trim Area- If your ad is placed on the bottom, the bleed above this line will be removed. If your ad is placed on the top, the bleed below this line will be removed.

THE COLUMBIA GROUP PRESENTS:

Using Humor to Cope with Stress

Call the Columbia Group for a Quote Today! P: 410.483.8888 www.thecolumbiagroup.net

WWW.THEBJH.COM

The Week Between Camps Ending And Schools Starting

WWW.THEBJH.COM

THE BALTIMORE JEWISH HOME

SEPTEMBER 3-9, 2026

Living Kiddush Hashem He Knew Arabs. He Had Never Met A Chareidi.

organizing dialogue between religious and secular Jews, he left with something entirely unexpected: a chavrusa. One week became two. Two weeks became months. Noam found himself drawn into Gemara, discovering a world he had never known existed.

By Rabbi Shraga Freedman

oam Gil grew up in Kfar Saba in a secular home with virtually no exposure to Torah. Shabbos, tefillin, shul, and even Krias Shema were simply not part of his world. But Noam had always wanted to make a difference. A competitive tennis player who represented Israel at international championships, he was also known for organizing community initiatives. One of his projects brought Jews and Arabs together, based on a simple belief: stereotypes disappear when people sit down, talk, and get to know one another. Then a friend asked him a question that would change everything. “You have no problem bringing Jews and Arabs together,” Tzvika said. “Why not bring religious and secular Jews together too?”

Noam laughed. “I don’t know any chareidim. I’ve never really met one. I wouldn’t even know where to find them.” The irony was striking. Noam had spent time bringing Jews and Arabs together, yet the chareidi community was more foreign to him than the Arab community. Tzvika, who was involved with the Lev L’Achim Beis Medrash in Kfar Saba, knew exactly where to start. He contacted Rabbi Kellerman and explained that Noam simply wanted to meet religious Jews and understand their world. “Of course,” Rabbi Kellerman replied. “Bring him this Wednesday.” No one could have imagined what would happen next. Instead of leaving with plans for

His original project quietly faded into the background. His own encounter with Torah had become far more significant. Eventually, Noam approached the rabbi learning with him. “I want to learn halachah too,” he said. “If I’m studying Torah, I also want to know how to live it.” And his journey accelerated. Shabbos, once completely foreign to him, became a central part of his life. Then came another milestone. Noam spent a substantial amount of his own money on a beautiful pair of mehudar tefillin. Since then, he has put them on every day. Even when he travels overseas to represent Israel at international tennis championships, his tefillin travel with him. Noam thought he needed to build a bridge between religious and secular Jews. But the real bridge was much simpler: a genuine exposure to Torah and its way of life.

No pressure. No arguments. No debates. Just a kiddush Hashem exposure. (Shared by Rabbi Aryeh Nelkin of Lev Lachim) World Wide Living Kiddush Hashem Event Three original, awe-inspiring personal stories hosted by Rabbi Yechiel Spero and Rabbi Shlomo Landau, and a powerful musical presentation. Don’t miss it. Launching this Motzei Shabbos. Watch at LivingKiddushHashem.org

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.

OUR FAMILY An awe-inspiring presentation that will transform the way you relate to every Jew. Rabbi Moshe Tuvia Lieff

Rabbi Yechiel Spero STORY 1

STORY 2

Written Off

Welcome Home

STORY 3

MUSICAL

One Heart

Soul Unity

SEPTEMBER 3-9, 2026

Messages of Meaning

‫ונקדשתי בתוך בני ישראל‬

THE BALTIMORE JEWISH HOME

THE WORLDWIDE KIDDUSH HASHEM EVENT

Rabbi Shlomo Landau

Rabbi Shraga Freedman

Beneath our differences, we are one.

To host a viewing in your shul or school contact LivingKiddushHashem@gmail.com

Join our virtual event. Launching Motzei Shabbos Selichos | September 5

Watch at LivingKiddushHashem.org

WWW.THEBJH.COM

PROGRAM IS FREE OF CHARGE

THE BALTIMORE JEWISH HOME

SEPTEMBER 3-9, 2026

56 1. *

TJH

Centerfold

10 Jobs You Couldn’t Pay Me Enough to Do Costco sampler attendant — Having to tell the

Person responsible for changing the office

guy who is eating all of the granola that this is really a

printer toner — You touched the printer, so whatever

sampler table.

happens to it for the next six months is now your fault.

Airport TSA agent — Eight hours a day explaining that, yes, shampoo is a liquid and you have to remove

Hotel front desk clerk at 1:00 A.M. — “I

your computer from the bag. (BTW – this is the only

specifically requested an ocean view.” “Sir, we’re in

place in the world where they haven’t discovered

the Sahara Desert. There is no ocean here.”

recorded messages yet, at least at JFK and LGA.) Person who answers the complaint line at School bus driver on the first day of school — 38 children, 23 stops, 19 mothers

shouting, “WAIT!

IKEA — “I followed all 37 steps, and I have six screws left.” “Sir, congratulations. You built it correctly.”

THAT’S NOT HIS STOP!” Little League umpire — Making $40 to discover Airline lost-luggage representative — “I have good news, Mr. Goldberg. We found your suitcase. Do

that twelve Five Towns fathers know the strike zone better than any Major League baseball player.

you have any plans to visit Bolivia?” Porta-Potty cleaner — There is no salary high

One Job I’m Applying For

enough to make you say at dinner, “You wouldn’t BELIEVE the day I had.”

Atlantic Beach Bridge Tower Lookout Guy -

WWW.THEBJH.COM

I’m 25 feet above the rest of you, people, looking out Bomb squad technician — Any job where the

into the ocean for boats, and I get to lift the bridge

performance review can begin with “Well, you’re

up exactly at the moment when everyone needs to

alive…” is not for me.

get home from The Sands because they told

Wedding hall coat-check attendant — “It’s

the babysitter that they

a black wool coat.” Excellent. That narrows it

would be home two

down to 147.

hours ago!

1. After approximately 5½ years on the job, what is the base salary of a New York City sanitation worker? a. $61,500 b. $73,200 c. $84,500 d. $95,316

3. The term “blue-collar worker” originally referred to what? a. Union membership cards being blue b. Blue denim/chambray work clothes c. Navy shipyard workers d. Depression-era government classification

5. Which of these occupations has the highest median salary ($226,600)? a. Airline pilot b. Dentist

7. Which of the following is an actual job performed for NASA? a. Smelling objects before they’re sent into space b. Tasting astronauts’ toothpaste c. Listening for cracks in moon rocks d. Measuring how loudly astronauts snore Answers: 1-C 2-B 3-B 4-C 5-A 6-A 7-A Wisdom Key: 6-7 correct: You are employee of the month! Congrats – you get a paper with a gold-colored ribbon to hang on your wall… Enjoy the next 40 years of your life at the company! 3-5 correct: You are a middleof-the-road type of person. You should drive a trolly. 0-2 correct: You lost your brain cells because you were NASA’s chief sniffer for too long.

Billy Bob wanted a job as a signalman on the railways. He was told to meet the inspector at the signal box. The inspector asked, “What would you do if you realized that two trains were heading for each other on the same track?” Billy Bob replied, “I would switch the points for one of the trains.” “What if the lever broke?” asked the inspector. “Then I’d dash down out of the signal box,” said Billy Bob, “and I’d use the manual lever over there.” “What if that had been struck by lightning?” “Then,” Billy Bob continued, “I’d run back into the signal box and phone the next signal box.” “What if the phone was busy?” “Well, in that case,” persevered Billy Bob, “I’d rush down out of the box and use the public emergency phone at the level crossing up there.” “What if that was vandalized?” “Oh, well, then I’d run into town and go get my friend Jimbo.” This puzzled the inspector, so he asked, “Why would you do that?” Billy Bob answered, “Well, Jimbo ain’t never seen a train wreck!”

WWW.THEBJH.COM

4. Walter Orthmann holds the Guinness World Record for the longest career as an employee at the same company (a textile company in Brazil). How long did he work there? a. 61 years b. 72 years c. 84 years d. 93 years

6. Which of these was once a real job in American bowling alleys? a. Pinsetter b. Ball polisher c. Lane walker d. Strike judge

SEPTEMBER 3-9, 2026

2. What was the original meaning of the word “salary”? a. Money for shelter b. Payment for a day’s labor c. Money associated with salt d. A soldier’s spending money

c. Lawyer d. Pharmacist

You Gotta Be Kidding Me!

THE BALTIMORE JEWISH HOME

Labor Trivia

SEPTEMBER 3-9, 2026

Notable Quotes “Say What?!”

Barry, keep with it, brother – you got a shot, man.

THE BALTIMORE JEWISH HOME

- Retired baseball player Jeff Kent at a San Francisco Giants ceremony celebrating his recent induction into the Hall of Fame addressing his former teammate Barry Bonds who has essentially been banned from the Hall of Fame for taking steroids

I made a mistake. - Jew-hater Abdul El-Sayed, who is the Democrat senate nominee for Michigan and is now trying to get Jews to vote for him, apologizing for responding to a radical Muslim driving a truck filled with gasoline and fireworks into a Michigan synagogue and preschool, “Hurt people, hurt people.”

They knew exactly what I would do. They knew I would activate the Air Force there, wake up the entire IDF, and not allow anyone to approach the fences – we would kill them immediately. The public doesn’t know this, but there were many, many indicative signs that an attack was about to happen. Chief of Staff Herzi Halevi knew this, Shin Bet chief Ronen Bar knew this, and Haliva, who was the head of Military Intelligence, knew this.

WWW.THEBJH.COM

- Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in a recent interview

Now, the obvious thing to do is wake up the Prime Minister, but they didn’t wake me. If they had woken me up, everything would have looked different. And that is the story of October 7. That is the story - ibid.

When you’re a military man of such high rank, claiming that you fought on October 7, already early in the morning you were there, already dressed and ready at a very, very early hour when others didn’t know, such as the prime minister… Who is the prime minister anyway to know that a war is breaking out? Why let him know? - Sara Netanyahu, wife of Prime Minister Netanyahu, insinuating that left-wing politician Yair Golan had advance notice of October 7

- President Donald Trump

Data centers use a lot of power and true, fine, debate. It’s what we do. But some of this panic is clearly imported. Which raises the question: how much of it is us and how much of it is them? When foreign governments can so easily hop right in and stir the pot, the fears may be less organic than we think. Because it turns out you don’t need a navy to beat America. You need America to beat America. All you got to do is get us fighting. We already do it for free. So, it’s no wonder the whole country feels like one big liquored up cruise ship. - Greg Gutfeld

- ibid.

Look, adversaries spent a decade beefing up the dumbest version of every argument to split us apart. Now they want to turn data center into a slur… Think about the fights we’ve had. Race, police, gender, COVID, vaccines. Now it’s AI. Wherever there’s a fire, they bring lighter fluid and dry brush. They find the fight, imitate both sides, amplify the least reasonable version of each, and they repeat it until your neighbor isn’t just wrong. He’s the enemy.

SEPTEMBER 3-9, 2026

They figure out what creates fights during Thanksgiving and amplify the [daylights] out of it. China’s been doing this for a while. Huge farms of phony accounts work both sides because the point isn’t persuasion. It’s chaos. Russia’s Internet Research Agency didn’t invent Black Lives Matter; it just backed every side of it. They’re like your bookie who makes money off the game no matter which team wins. Russian or Iran have run sock puppet news sites that feed opposites on [certain lifestyle] fights, Israel, the border, whatever’s already on fire. The doctrine isn’t make them left or make them right. It’s make them ungovernable.

THE BALTIMORE JEWISH HOME

China could not be happier with this anti Data Center movement. Actually, they can’t believe it is happening! Data centers could be bigger than oil.

- ibid.

Enemies now have become experts at taking our greatest weapon – free speech – and turning it on us. It’s nothing new... Monday could be gender. Wednesday, race. Friday, cops. Sunday, Greg Gutfeld’s abs. - ibid.

- 91-year-old Dale Sanders, who just completed the 2,193-mile Appalachian Trail over the course of a year, becoming the oldest person to do so

Multiple back surgeries ended my career earlier than I expected and left me with constant, debilitating pain. That pain led to a dependance on pain medication, and my efforts to get off those medications led to an overreliance on alcohol. - Former Dallas Cowboys quarterback and current NFL commentator Tony Romo on social media commenting on his recent arrest for DWI

WWW.THEBJH.COM

Even today, I feel that I should probably be in better shape than I am. But I just have to always go back and say, “But I am 91, so I’m blazing new ground hiking long distances like this.”

THE BALTIMORE JEWISH HOME

SEPTEMBER 3-9, 2026

Abdul El-Sayed, every time they put a microphone in front of his face, he wants to talk about my wife or my grandfather. - Vice Pres. J.D. Vance at a Michigan rally responding to the Democrat senate candidate talking about Vance’s wife and how she wouldn’t be accepted by Vance’s white family

My message to Abdul El-Sayed is you can pal around with terrorist sympathizers, and you can say that America deserved 9/11, or you could empathize not with the children who were targeted at Temple Israel, or— but with the attacker. These are all despicable things, but they’re all things that the people of Michigan will judge you on based on your record. But I actually think that the people of Michigan think it’s kind of weird when you talk about another guy’s wife. - ibid.

Many times, those who have a kosher phone in one pocket also have a [regular] phone to stay connected in the other pocket. They say that a very significant percentage of the chareidi population owns two phones. One kosher phone to show off, and one real phone, a smarter phone.

WWW.THEBJH.COM

- Supreme Court President Justice Isaac Amit during a court hearing

The brazen mockery by Supreme Court President Justice Amit toward kosher phone owners expresses arrogance and detachment from a huge public that chooses to raise children in a protected and pure environment. – Statement by the Shas political party

I am deeply saddened by the death of a New Yorker in City custody at a jail on Rikers Island early this morning. My thoughts are with his family and loved ones as they grieve this loss. - Mayor Zohran Mamdani after Clarence Woodward died in Rikers Island custody (Woodward was in Rikers Island jail because he was charged with killing a store owner with a meat cleaver, in an unprovoked attack)

poke bowls knishes Chicken

eal own m r i e h t s der. n e p ic k own or r i e E v e ry o h t s for very! i n e p ay l o e y d r e e v E s fre

Burgers

Subs

JOIN TOGETHER For free delivery:

To order!

Write your office name in the order notes, and call when you’re ready for delivery!

www.knishshop.com 508 Reisterstown Road 41 0 - 4 8 4 - 5 8 5 0

grab & go

Open daily 8:30am

Dine in / takeout Open daily 11:30am

Closes M-W 10pm | Th 12Am | F 2pm

WWW.THEBJH.COM

Hot Dogs

Sushi

Flatbread

ne ge o y r e v E

SEPTEMBER 3-9, 2026

e c i f f The O h c n u L n o i t u Sol

THE BALTIMORE JEWISH HOME

Fries

WWW.THEBJH.COM

THE BALTIMORE JEWISH HOME

SEPTEMBER 3-9, 2026

Forgotten Her es

Meeting at the Elbe By Avi Heiligman

The famous photo at the Elbe River

he last few weeks of the war in Europe saw Allied armies dashing across German territory to cut off enemy units and force the surrender of the Nazi regime. The Soviets were advancing from the east, preparing for the final assault on Berlin, while the Western Allies pushed from the west and south. On April 25, 1945, elements of both armies linked up at the Elbe River. Details and pictures of the historic event made their way into the media as the soldiers were preparing for the conclusion of the war. The primary formations involved in this milestone encounter were the U.S. 69th Infantry Division, operating under General Courtney Hodges’ 1st U.S. Army (part of General Omar Bradley’s 12 th Army Group), and the Soviet 58th Guards Rifle Division of Marshal Ivan Konev’s 1st Ukrainian Front. The first meeting of the day actually occurred four hours prior to the famous encounter at Torgau. At approximately 11:30 AM, 1st Lt. Albert L. Kotzebue of the 273rd Infantry Regiment, 69th Division led a four-man intelligence and reconnaissance patrol across the Elbe River in a rowboat near Strehla. In this patrol was Private First Class Joe Polowsky of Chicago who was the son of Russian Jewish immigrants and served as the patrol’s interpreter. Kotzebue’s

2nd Lt. William Robertson, U.S., and Lt. Alexander Sylvashko, Red Army, shown in front of a sign that says East Meets West

team made initial contact with a Soviet soldier on horseback. Polowsky spent the rest of his life advocating for April 25 to be officially designated as an international Elbe Day dedicated to world peace, a campaign he pursued tirelessly until his death. Despite Kotzebue’s earlier contact, it was a second patrol led by 2 nd Lieutenant William Robertson that made the headlines. Robertson’s four-man patrol included Private Paul Staub, a Jewish soldier from Elizabeth, New Jersey. They reached the Elbe at Torgau later that afternoon and found the main bridge in the area destroyed by retreating German forces. Robertson and his men carefully climbed across the twisted steel wreckage that was partially submerged in the river. Soviet soldiers on the far bank initially mistook the patrol for enemy troops and opened fire. Fortunately, they missed, and after identifying themselves as Americans, the Soviet troops realized the mistake and greeted the Americans with handshakes and smiles. Robertson had been told not to go to the Elbe River, and his commanding general initially ordered a court-martial for disobeying orders. However, recognizing the monumental strategic and public relations value of the linkup, General Omar Bradley intervened personally to drop all charges. Staub, who document-

Soviet and American soldiers in Torgau, Germany, April 25, 1945

ed the encounter on camera, captured a photograph of the ruined bridge that was commemorated on a U.S. postage stamp 50 years later. During a subsequent ceremony, Staub met General Dwight D. Eisenhower, received a promotion to corporal, and was awarded both the Bronze Star and the Soviet Order of Glory. Later that afternoon, U.S. 69th Infantry Division commander Major General Emil F. Reinhardt officially met Soviet 58th Guards Rifle Division commander Major General Vladimir Rusakov at Torgau to formalize the linkup. The following day, on April 26, commanders and media corps staged symbolic handshakes across the river for international press coverage. Among the soldiers featured in these famous press photographs was U.S. Army Technician Fifth Grade Bernard Kirschenbaum of the 69th Division. Kirschenbaum was photographed reaching out to shake hands with Soviet soldiers that included Polish-born Chaim Charles Thau. Thau had survived the Holocaust by escaping into the dense forests when Nazi forces invaded his home shtetl. He lived as a partisan fighter for a year before joining Soviet forces. Though Soviet officers initially suspected Thau was a German spy due to his fluent German, he convinced them of his Jewish heritage. Joining the Red Army in July

1942 as a translator, Thau served on the frontlines all the way to the historic linkup at the Elbe. After the war, he returned to his shtetl only to learn that he was the only survivor from his family and moved to Austria. There he joined the Bricha, an underground network that helped Jewish Holocaust survivors leave Europe, and in 1951, he immigrated to the U.S., where he settled in Milwaukee. Linkups occurred all across the frontlines following meet-ups on April 25. Soldiers from both sides celebrated the impending defeat of the Nazis and exchanges of insignia and other gifts followed. The celebrations wouldn’t last long, though, as geopolitical tensions grew in the months and years following the war and a Cold War between the United States and the Soviets lasted for several decades. Despite the political disagreements between the governments, the regular soldiers of the two powers, especially those Forgotten Heroes who met at the Elbe, often remained friends for life.

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.

ILY OWNE M A

E 192

www.frammonument.com 410-486-6666 SHOMER SHABBOS | FAMILY OWNED

WWW.THEBJH.COM

Scan To See For Yourself

*Right here in Baltimore.

SEPTEMBER 3-9, 2026

THE BALTIMORE JEWISH HOME

WE DON’T JUST SELL HEADSTONES. WE MAKE THEM TOO.*

THE BALTIMORE JEWISH HOME

SEPTEMBER 3-9, 2026

Dating Dialogue

What Would You Do If… Moderated by Jennifer Mann, LCSW of The Navidaters

Dear Navidaters,

Why do people sometimes present themselves very differently in dating pictures than they look in person? I recently went out with a girl who looked very slim in her pictures, but in person she wasn’t, and honestly, I was not attracted to her

at all. I realized even more clearly that I’m really only attracted to someone who is on the slim/ athletic side. Wouldn’t it be better for everyone to just be genuine and show yourself as you really are? You don’t need to change your pictures, use angles, filters, or makeup to look different. There are people who will appreciate you exactly as you are. I feel like being upfront about what you look like would save both people time

WWW.THEBJH.COM

and avoid awkward situations. Thanks for your time, Eli*

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.

BALTIMORE • BROOKLYN • CEDARHURST • CHICAGO • LAKEWOOD • MIAMI • MONSEY • TORONTO

WWW.THEBJH.COM

1110 Reisterstown Rd | 410.358.2796 S 10:30-6 M-W 10:30-7 Th 10:30-8 F 10:30-2:30 | Mincha M-Th 3:15

SEPTEMBER 3-9, 2026

Shop early for best selection!

THE BALTIMORE JEWISH HOME

FULLY STOCKED FOR YOM TOV

The Panel

SEPTEMBER 3-9, 2026

We want to offer YOU an opportunity to be part of the discussion!

THE BALTIMORE JEWISH HOME

Dr. Jeffrey Galler

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

WWW.THEBJH.COM

If people take the time to get to know someone, the looks don’t matter as much.

The Zaidy

Dear Readers,

reach out to this email as well. Looking forward! Michelle, the “Shadchan”

The Rebbetzin Rebbetzin Faigie Horowitz, M.S.

he purpose of your query is to raise this issue in the public eye. People should not present themselves as that which they aren’t is your point. You know the answer. People like to present themselves as best they can, and today, with technology, they can. Many people get chances they would not ordinarily get if they use artifice. It can be argued that it doesn’t help when people actually meet. That is probably true most of the time but not all the time. If people take the time to get to know someone, the looks don’t matter as much. Fact are that Hashem created the world in such a way that the eyes work faster than the intelligent brain. Hence people react to what they see, not what they know.

The Shadchan Michelle Mond

n an ideal world, pictures wouldn’t even be necessary. People are so much more than a one-dimensional, still portrait! The couple would get to know each other in real time rather than passing judgment before even meeting. A per-

son’s great personality can make him or her look ten times more attractive! It can work the other way as well. You can have a very attractive person with a terrible demeanor that kills the whole date. We live in a society where photography has become an art. Finding the right angle and lighting, along with some editing, can be the key to getting the most flattering picture possible. From what I have seen, both men AND women take advantage of this. Nobody is going to forgo wearing makeup or purposely stand in an unflattering position just to make themselves look more “realistic.” Whether it’s a woman who finds the perfect angle or a man who chooses to use a picture from ten years ago when he had a full head of hair, everyone is guilty of this to some extent. I understand that you have personal preferences. Nobody can tell you who you should or should not be attracted to. You must realize, however, that people will naturally put their best selves forward when asked for a picture. This doesn’t make it ethical to send out a heavily edited or doctored picture that doesn’t accurately represent what you look like. But wearing makeup? That’s standard. Finding flattering lighting or a good angle? That’s pretty normal, too. Try not to judge others too harshly, and think positively. Most people do present themselves honestly. Keep that in mind as you move forward. Hopefully, you will meet someone you connect with very soon.

nterestingly, the expression “the camera never lies” dates back to the early days of photography, when people assumed that a camera lens simply recorded reality. Today, of course, we know better. Lighting, angles, cropping, editing software, and filters can make the camera a less-than-reliable witness. Years ago, one of my dental assistants married, moved to California, and went to work in a “Dentist to the Stars” office on Rodeo Drive in Beverly Hills. When we met again years later, she told me how surprised she had been to discover how famous actors and models looked so very ordinary when she encountered them in person, away from the cameras, makeup

artists, and carefully controlled lighting. But I digress. Let’s agree that within our Orthodox tent, there are several different attitudes toward photos on shidduch resumes and websites.

Category One: Where Photos are Frowned Upon In many charedi, chassidic, or yeshivish circles, sharing photos is

Flower Delivery Club Join the

Ruby Lasker Designs

• Free delivery every Friday • Starting at just $25/week

Shelly’s Blossom

Shop

410.961.4199

Category Two: Where Photos Help Date-or-Not-Date Decisions

Category Three: Don’t Rely So Heavily on Photographs If physical attraction is particularly important to you, perhaps you should rely less on photographs and make more of an effort to meet singles naturally, at singles events, Shabbatons, chessed programs, shul activities, or Shabbos meals. There, you meet the actual person, not her photograph.

A Final, Unflattering Observation My wife has been complaining that,

in recent columns, I have come across as too harsh. Perhaps she’s right. But nevertheless, here goes... Some folks claim they can discern a lot about a person by reading palms, checking astrological charts, or calculating gematrias. I believe you can tell a lot about a person by the way he expresses himself in writing. Eli, there is nothing wrong with knowing what you find physically attractive. We all have preferences, and physical attraction is important. But your letter isn’t merely saying, “I wasn’t attracted to this woman.” Incredibly, you actually seem annoyed that her photographs didn’t allow you to determine, in advance, that you wouldn’t find her attractive in person. And, that sense of arrogance and entitlement is where you lose me. So lighten up, pal.

It is worth examining how much value we are giving the picture altogether.

The woman you went out with didn’t owe you a photograph designed to help you decide whether her body met your standards. She owed you ordinary honesty and courtesy. You owed her the same. And, someday, you may meet a woman whose photograph doesn’t knock your socks off but whose warmth, intelligence, humor, kindness, and personality most certainly do.

SEPTEMBER 3-9, 2026

Among many Modern Orthodox singles, photos are important. A photo provides additional information that may help someone decide whether or not to pursue a date. But, Eli, what you wrote makes you sound either very naïve or rather arrogant. Obviously, women are going to post photographs that are as flattering as possible. Of course, they do! I’m sure you do the same and don’t use a photo of how scruffy and disheveled you look after a gym workout. (If this letter-writer ever marries and has daughters, imagine how surprised

he’ll be when he discovers what they go through when it’s time for high school yearbook pictures.) It’s extremely unlikely that single women are actually posting photographs that are blatantly fake or dishonest. If their flattering photographs bother you that much, proceed to category three.

THE BALTIMORE JEWISH HOME

frowned upon as immodest. Instead, shadchanim are relied upon to do the vetting, based on their understanding of the singles’ preferences.

WWW.THEBJH.COM

THE BALTIMORE JEWISH HOME

SEPTEMBER 3-9, 2026

It would be a shame to miss her because you had become too efficient at screening. Good luck. Dating can be stressful and annoying. Try to mellow out and enjoy the process.

Reader’s Response Rachel Shteierman Shadchan and coach Waterbury, CT

ear Eli, I’m really sorry you had that experience. It can be incredibly frustrating to receive a picture that creates one

heard much about her, there can be a temptation to choose the picture that is most flattering, even when it may no longer be the most representative. I can understand where that pressure comes from, but I don’t think it makes sending an inaccurate picture the right solution. At the same time, I think it is worth examining how much value we are giving the picture altogether. A number of years ago, Adopt a Shadchan ran its Nix the Pics initiative, and something about that idea really resonated with me. One thing I sometimes encourage singles to do is make a phone call or two about the person before looking at a picture. Hear something about who she is, what people appreciate about her, what kind of person she is—and then look at the picture. I think that gives the picture more dimension. A photograph is incredibly

one-dimensional, and yet sometimes we ask it to tell us whether we could be attracted to an entire person. When we already know something meaningful about someone, we may look at that exact same picture with a different set of eyes. This is also where having a shadchan you trust can be enormously helpful. If being slim or athletic is something you have learned is genuinely important for you to feel attraction, you should be able to communicate that respectfully and trust that it will be taken seriously. Perhaps if we can place a little more trust in the people who know us and a little less weight on the picture itself, there will be less pressure surrounding the “perfect” picture in the first place. Wishing you much hatzlacha and hopefully future suggestions that feel more aligned with what you know you are looking for.

whether that should be true, but pretending women aren’t aware of it would be disingenuous. So when someone chooses the picture where she looks thinnest, or the angle she finds most flattering, I’m probably more apt to wonder what she has learned about what she needs to look like in order to get a “yes” than I am to immediately assume she is trying to trick somebody. That doesn’t mean I think people should misrepresent themselves. I don’t. Pictures should be recent and realistic. If someone is deliberately editing her body or using photographs that no longer resemble her, it creates exactly the situation you described: two people sitting down for a date with one of them already feeling thrown off. But I think there’s a difference between saying, “People should represent themselves honestly,” and assuming dishonesty is always what’s driving the discrepancy. Sometimes, it may be insecurity. Sometimes, denial. Sometimes, an old picture someone still thinks looks like

her. Sometimes, it’s simply the universal human tendency to choose the photograph in which we look our absolute best. And sometimes, it may be the result of a dating culture that has taught people, particularly women, that they need to look a certain way just to be given the opportunity to walk through the door. I actually really like something you said: “There are people who will appreciate you exactly as you are.” I agree. I just wish everyone dating truly believed that — because perhaps then there would be a little less fear around showing up exactly as we are. So yes, Eli. Be honest about what you’re attracted to. And yes, everyone should use pictures that genuinely represent them. But perhaps we can also be curious about what makes people feel that who they really are might not be enough to get the date in the first place.

Pulling It All Together The Navidaters Dating and Relationship Coaches and Therapists

WWW.THEBJH.COM

impression of how someone looks and then meet the person and feel that the picture was not an accurate representation of them. If pictures are going to be part of the shidduch process, I do think they should reasonably represent what someone looks like today. Of course, it should be a flattering picture – we all want to put our best foot forward – but the picture should still feel like a fair representation of the person you are going to meet. I also think part of the reason this happens may be the enormous pressure that has developed around pictures. When someone knows that one photograph may determine whether she gets a yes or a no before anyone has even

ear Eli, I think you’re asking a fair question, and I agree with your basic premise: dating pictures should be current and should reasonably represent what someone looks like in person. You’re also allowed to know what you’re attracted to. Attraction really matters, no matter what anyone may say. If you’ve learned that you’re particularly attracted to women who are slim or athletic, that’s useful information to know about yourself. We all have preferences, whether we say them out loud or not. But I find myself thinking about the other side of your question. Why might someone use pictures that make them look different than they do in person? And honestly, my first thought isn’t deception. It’s pressure. In the shidduch world, a resume

and a few pictures can feel like a lifeline. For many people, there isn’t another organic way of meeting. You’re not necessarily going to bump into someone at a party, talk for an hour, make each other laugh and discover there’s chemistry before either of you has decided whether the other one checks every box. Often, before you ever get the chance to sit across from another human being, someone is looking at your picture and deciding whether to say yes or no. That puts a tremendous amount of pressure on a few photographs. And I think we also have to be honest about the pressure on women in our community to be thin. Very thin. There are women who have absorbed the message, directly or indirectly, that being a size 2 will open doors in dating. We can debate

All the best, Jennifer

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.

DOUBLETREE • As low as $33,300, all-inclusive | 300 Guests + 5 Vendors

BAND • SINGER • VIDEOGRAPHY • PHOTOGRAPHER CHUPPAH • CENTER PIECES • 2 SHMORG STATIONS • BEDEKON BACKDROP

I N F O @ K N I S H S H O P. C O M | 4 1 0. 4 84 . 5 850 X 2

WWW.THEBJH.COM

P A C K A G E

SEPTEMBER 3-9, 2026

W E D D I N G

THE BALTIMORE JEWISH HOME

Your dream wedding at an unbeatable rate

THE BALTIMORE JEWISH HOME

SEPTEMBER 3-9, 2026

Common

Cents

Stop Overthinking And Start Index Fund Investing! Investing is one of the smartest financial moves you can make. Not because it is exciting. Not because it gives you something fun to talk about at cocktail parties. Not because you have a hot stock tip from your neighbor’s brother-in-law who “knows a guy.” Investing matters because, over time, it gives your money the opportunity to grow. You work hard for your money. Investing is how you give your money a job too. But here is where most people get stuck. They know they should invest. They understand that keeping everything in cash probably will not get them where they want to go. They have heard that the stock market has historically rewarded long-term investors. And then come the questions:

• What stock should I buy? • When should I buy it? • How do I know when to sell? • What if I pick the wrong company? • What if the market drops right after I invest? • What if I do nothing because I am too overwhelmed to make a decision?

That last one is the danger. Because for many people, the biggest investing mistake is not picking the “wrong” fund. It is never getting started in the first place. Enter Index Funds Index funds are one of the best tools ever created for regular investors. Why? Because they simplify the entire process. Instead of trying to pick one winning stock, an index fund lets you own a little piece of many companies at once. Think of it like this: Instead of walking into a grocery store and trying to guess which single item will be the best seller this year, you buy a small piece of the whole store. Some products will do great. Some will not. But you are not betting everything on one shelf.

WWW.THEBJH.COM

By Elliot Pepper, CPA, CFP®, MST

That is the beauty of an index fund. An index fund is simply a fund designed to track a specific market index. The fund owns the companies included in that index. One of the most well-known examples is the S&P 500. An S&P 500 index fund gives you exposure to roughly 500 of the largest publicly traded companies in the United States. Another popular option is a total U.S. stock market index fund. As the name suggests, that type of fund gives you exposure to the broader U.S. stock market- not just the largest companies, but also many mid-sized and smaller companies too. Both options are simple. Both are diversified. Both can be powerful long-term wealth-building tools.

So Which One Should You Choose? Here is the part that may surprise you: It probably does not matter as much as you think. Investors love to debate details. S&P 500 or total U.S. market? Large-cap or small-cap? Should I wait until the market drops? Should I invest now? Should I split it up? Some of these questions matter. But they often matter far less than the big question: Are you actually investing consistently? An S&P 500 index fund and a total U.S. stock market index fund are not identical, but historically their performance has often been very similar. That makes sense because the largest companies in the U.S. stock market make up a major portion of both indexes. The total U.S. market fund gives you a little more exposure to smaller and mid-sized companies. The S&P 500 is more concentrated in the largest companies. Over certain periods, one may outperform the other. Over other periods, it may flip. Let’s compare the performance of the Vanguard S&P 500 Index Fund ETF with the Vanguard Total Stock Market Index Fund ETF. Over the last two years, the Vanguard Total Stock Market Index Fund returned an annualized 18.9% while the Vanguard S&P 500 Index Fund returned an annualized 18.5%. Total Stock Market for the win! However, when looking at the performance of these two funds over the last 10 years, things change (only slightly). The Vanguard Total Stock Market Index Fund returned an annualized 15.1% while the Vanguard S&P 500 Index Fund returned an annualized 15.1%*. S&P 500 for the win! The point is that no two index funds are the same, but in either case, being broadly diversified in the Stock Market increased wealth for investors who stayed the course. But for most long-term investors, the difference between the two is usually not the main driver of success. The real driver is getting invested, staying invested, and continuing to invest over time. Don’t Let Tiny Differences Create Big Inaction This is where investors often get in their own way. They spend weeks, months, or even years trying to make the “perfect” investment decision. They compare fund returns, read articles, watch videos, ask ten different people for opinions, and wait for the “right” time. And while they wait, their money sits on the sidelines, and that is the problem! Because money sitting on the sidelines is not participating. It is not compounding. It

is not working toward your retirement, your future home, your long-term security, or your financial independence. Yes, there are important details to consider when investing. Costs matter. Taxes matter. Risk matters. Asset allocation matters. Your time horizon matters. Your goals matter. But perfection is not required to make progress. The Power of “Good Enough and Consistent” Index funds are powerful because they remove many of the unnecessary decisions. You do not have to guess which company will win. You do not have to track quarterly earnings reports. You do not have to know whether a specific stock is overvalued or undervalued. You do not have to turn investing into a second job. You can simply choose a diversified, low-cost index fund that aligns with your plan and keep oncontributing. That is not flashy. It will not make you sound like a hedge fund manager. It will not give you a dramatic story about how you “called the bottom,” but it works. The Market Rewards Participation, Not Prediction Everyone wants to know what the market will do next. Will it go up? Will it go down? Is now a good time? Should I wait until after the election? Should I wait until interest rates change? Should I wait until things feel calmer? Here is the truth: The market rarely feels calm. There is always a reason to wait. There is always uncertainty. There is always a headline that makes investing feel uncomfortable. But long-term investing is not about predicting the next move.

keep you frozen. Both can be great tools, because both can help simplify investing. The bigger mistake is letting small differences stop you from taking action. If you really cannot decide, just go 50/50. Invest half of your money earmarked for US stocks into the S&P 500 and 50% into the Total Stock Market Index. The point is to do something! Because if you want your money to grow over time, sitting on the sidelines won’t get the job done. And remember: You do not need to outsmart the market. You just need to participate in it with a plan. Your Action Plan – Review your current investment accounts. Are you actually invested, or are you sitting in cash by default? – Look at your retirement plan options and identify any broad, low-cost index funds available to you. – Decide whether your long-term money has an investment strategy that matches your goals and timeline. – Automate contributions so investing happens consistently, not only when you remember. – Do not let perfect become the enemy of progress. Investing does not have to be complicated. A simple plan, repeated consistently over time, can go a very long way. *Source: Wall Street Journal, “Stressing Over Whether Your Index Fund Has SpaceX? Don’t”, June 22, 2026. The information contained herein is intended to be used for educational purposes only and is not exhaustive. Diversification and/or any strategy that may be discussed does not guarantee against investment losses but are intended to help manage risk and return. If applicable, historical discussions and/or opinions are not predictive of future events. The content is presented in good faith and has been drawn from sources believed to be reliable. The content is not intended to be legal, tax or financial advice. Please consult a legal, tax or financial professional for information specific to your individual situation.

It is about participating in the long-term growth of businesses.

Subscribe to Common Cents digitally on LinkedIn.

When you invest in a broad index fund, you are not just buying a ticker symbol. You are buying ownership in companies that sell products, provide services, innovate, adapt, and grow. Some will fail. Some will thrive. Some will become household names, some will disappear, but as a long-term investor, your winners will outperform our losers, and compound interest is the cherry on top!

The decision to start saving and investing is yours, but the “how” can be hard. Email commoncents@northbrookfinancial.com to schedule a financial planning consultation with our team.

Takeaway The choice between an S&P 500 index fund and a total U.S. stock market index fund is not meaningless, but it is also not the thing that should

Elliot Pepper, CPA, CFP®, MST is Co-Founder of Northbrook Financial, a Financial Planning, Tax, and Investment Management Firm. He has developed and continues to teach a popular Financial Literacy course for high school students.

THE BALTIMORE JEWISH HOME SEPTEMBER 3-9, 2026

WHERE QUALITY MEETS FASHION

WE ACCEPT ALL MAJOR VISION INSURANCES & MANY MEDICAL INSURANCES. Comprehensive Eye Exams

Contact lens services & sales Full service optical shop

MVA exams & certifications Emergency Eye Care

Dr. Abraham Zuckerbrod Optometrist

1860 A-B Reisterstown Rd Baltimore, MD 21208

410.864.2526 www.idealfamilyeyecare.com

WWW.THEBJH.COM

THE IDEAL PPCE FOR EYE CARE & EYEWEAR

SEPTEMBER 3-9, 2026

Health & F tness

Back To School, Back To Routine

THE BALTIMORE JEWISH HOME

By Hylton I. Lightman, MD, DCH (SA), FAAP

WWW.THEBJH.COM

very September, parents send their children back to school with the same hopes. We want them to learn. We want them to make friends. We want them to behave, succeed, feel confident, and come home happy. But getting there looks very different for a six-year-old walking into first grade than it does for a sixteen-year-old walking into high school. For younger children, back-to-school is often about transition. For teenagers, it is increasingly about ownership. And as parents, understanding that difference can help us give each child the support they actually need.

The Younger Years: First Through Sixth Grade For a young child, September can feel enormous. Think about how much changes at once. A different classroom. A new teacher. New classmates. Earlier mornings.

Homework. Bedtimes. Lunches. Carpools or buses. Sitting for longer periods. Following a schedule again after a summer with considerably more freedom. Even a child who is excited about school can feel anxious about it. Children don’t always say, “I’m anxious about going back to school.” Sometimes anxiety sounds like: “My stomach hurts.” “I don’t want to go to bed.” “I can’t find my shoes.” “I hate school.” Or it can look like irritability, clinginess, trouble sleeping, tears in the morning, or behavior that seems to come out of nowhere. As a pediatrician, I remind parents not to look only at the words. Watch the child. The first thing younger children need is predictability. Get the household back onto a school schedule. Bedtime should become consistent. Mornings should have a routine. Backpacks and clothing should be pre-

pared the night before whenever possible. These things sound simple, but routine gives children something tremendously valuable: a sense of knowing what comes next. Sleep is especially important. A tired child doesn’t just feel tired. Lack of sleep can affect attention, mood, behavior, memory, and the ability to handle frustration. Moving bedtime earlier should ideally begin before school starts, rather than waiting until everyone is exhausted after the first week. And don’t underestimate breakfast. Children need fuel to learn. It doesn’t have to be elaborate, but sending a child into a long school morning hungry is asking his or her brain to work without enough energy. Most importantly, give them room to talk. Instead of asking only, “Are you excited for school?” try asking: “What are you looking forward to?” “Is there anything you’re a little ner-

vous about?” “Who are you hoping will be in your class?” You may be surprised by what comes out.

Don’t Rush To Fix Every Worry When your child tells you something is worrying them, your first instinct may be to solve it. Sometimes the better first response is simply to listen. If your son says, “I’m scared my teacher is going to be really strict,” you don’t necessarily need to convince him that the teacher is wonderful. You can say, “I understand. Having a new teacher can feel a little scary when you don’t know what to expect yet.” You’re letting him know that you heard him. Then you can help him think through what he can do. Children build confidence not by being told that nothing difficult will ever

73 happen, but by gradually discovering that they can handle difficult things.

Teach the System, Not Just the Result

Dr. Hylton Lightman MD DCH(SA) FAAP is

Children and teenagers can be exposed in seconds to inappropriate or disturbing content they were never looking for and are not emotionally prepared to process – images and material that can stay with them long after the screen is turned off. Above all, parents should remember that teenagers learn from what they see. It’s difficult to tell a child that phones don’t belong at the dinner table when Mommy and Daddy are constantly checking theirs.

whether what you’re seeing is a normal adjustment or something that deserves a closer look.

a board-certified pediatrician and the Medical Director of Suffolk Health Five Towns. He

One School Year at a Time

health care to babies, children, teenagers and young adults so they bring their children and

Every September feels like a fresh beginning. There will be forgotten homework.

adores his patients and tolerates their parents. His life’s mission is to deliver quality

grandchildren (and great-grandchildren) to him. He loves what he does.

Don’t Make Every Conversation About Performance This may be one of the most important things I can tell parents of teenagers. Your teenager needs to know that your relationship is bigger than a report card. Ask about school, certainly. But also ask about friends. Ask what made them laugh. Ask what they’re interested in. Ask what they’re worried about. But sometimes, don’t ask anything at all. Just be available. Teenagers have a wonderful way of choosing the least convenient possible moment to suddenly tell you something important. When that moment comes, if you can, listen.

Watch For the Child Who is Struggling Some back-to-school adjustment is completely normal. But parents know their children. If a younger child continues to have significant stomachaches, headaches, sleep problems, school refusal or dramatic behavioral changes, don’t simply

WWW.THEBJH.COM

We often tell teenagers to “work harder.” That’s not always useful advice. A teenager may genuinely want to succeed and still struggle with organization, procrastination, distractions, sleep, time management, or simply not knowing how to approach a large workload. Instead of focusing exclusively on the grade, look at the system behind it. Does your teenager have a place to study? Do they know what assignments are due? Are they starting projects early enough? Are they getting enough sleep? (This is a big one.) Is the phone sitting next to them every time they try to study? (This, too, is a big one.) One of the most valuable things we can teach teenagers is that success usually isn’t one heroic effort the night before an exam. It’s a collection of small habits repeated consistently. Their Phone is Part of the Conversation We cannot talk realistically about teenagers and school today without talking about screens. Phones are remarkable tools. They’re

Even a child who is excited about school can feel anxious about it.

There will be rushed mornings. There will be stressful moments. That’s family life. Our job isn’t to create a perfect school year for our children. For the younger ones, our job is to give them enough routine, reassurance and stability that they can walk into school feeling secure. For our teenagers, it’s to gradually step back enough that they can learn to organize themselves, make decisions, recover from mistakes and take responsibility for their own success. Different ages. Different approaches. But the message underneath both is the same: I’m here. I believe in you. And when something is difficult, we’ll figure out how to handle it. As always, daven.

SEPTEMBER 3-9, 2026

With teenagers, the parenting approach needs to change. A teenager does not need Mom or Dad hovering over every assignment, checking every grade and organizing every minute of the day. But that doesn’t mean teenagers don’t need us. They do. They simply need us differently. High school is a time to begin shifting from managing your child to coaching your child. Sit down at the beginning of the year and ask what they want from the year. What subjects do they want to improve in? Is there a teacher or class they’re concerned about? Are there activities they want to become involved with? What got in their way last year? What would they like to do differently this time? Notice the difference between saying, “You need to get better grades this year,” and asking, “What do you think would help you have a better year?” One creates pressure. The other begins a conversation.

assume they’re being difficult. Likewise, if a teenager becomes unusually withdrawn, stops enjoying things they normally enjoy, has major changes in sleeping or eating, experiences a significant drop in school performance, or seems overwhelmed for an extended period, pay attention. Sometimes, the problem isn’t schoolwork at all. Your pediatrician can be an important starting point when you’re not sure

THE BALTIMORE JEWISH HOME

High School: A Different Conversation

also remarkably good at stealing attention. A teenager trying to study while responding to messages, watching videos and checking social media is asking the brain to constantly switch attention. Families should have reasonable expectations about when phones are put away, particularly during homework and at bedtime. Just as important, make sure smartphones and other devices have appropriate filters and safeguards in place.

SEPTEMBER 3-9, 2026

Parenting Pearls

Talking Tech Time

THE BALTIMORE JEWISH HOME

By Sara Rayvych, MSEd

WWW.THEBJH.COM

his has been a strange start to the school year. Some schools are well into session, while others have just started with opening day. It’s unusual to have such a large gap between different institutions. This has made it more challenging to figure out when and if there should be articles discussing back-to-school related themes. As we transition the kids – and ourselves – from summer mode back into school structure, there are a number of adjustments parents will be making. Bedtime becomes firmer. Uniforms and dress code-compliant clothing are rotating back into the laundry. Technology is a topic that I’ve written about before, and I sometimes wonder if it’s not worth mentioning again. As tech is something so prevalent in our lives, it still feels like a discussion worth having. It’s also an area where parents need to continuously reevaluate their parenting. For example, what is appropriate at one age may no longer be a good match at a later age. I am not here to dictate to parents exactly what they should and should not permit their children to do with tech-

nology. Besides being very presumptuous, it would also be wholly inappropriate for me to do so. Individual children have their own needs, and each family has their own rav and standards to guide them.

Defining Technology Technology is a big topic that covers many areas. Almost everything is done using some form of technology. We even have “smart” appliances that rely on the internet. How we bank, shop and make decisions has been affected by technology. We even have AI that practically thinks for us. I feel a bit like a dinosaur in that I don’t use AI to write (or edit) any of my articles. For this article, I am limiting the definition to the specific technology that children interact with personally. This mostly refers to the internet, computers, phones, tablets and similar devices. We could also extend it to online shopping and other uses. I am not referring to medical equipment or assistive technology devices used in special education. It’s a tremen-

dous bracha that we have these gifts, and we should thank Hashem for them (while also davening to not need them). I am not including in this discussion if you do or don’t use a remote to turn on your air conditioning. I am a big fan of AC. I do not care whether you use a cassette tape or digital device to listen to your music. Alarm clocks can light up, play music or just issue irritating sounds. They’re a great tool to get up for davening and not a concern. Our lives are improved in many ways with technology, and I don’t believe these negatively impact today’s child. I’m sure at one point parents would have argued that having a washing machine would make children lazy and neglect their chores, but we’re no longer there. There is no question that technology has dramatically shifted the way we live every day. Like everything in life, technology has both positive and negative consequences. For example, loved ones are closer than ever, and children can communicate with friends and family through video chat or easily text photos and other nachas sharing. Examples of potential negatives include a decrease

in creativity, difficulties with concentration and a lessening of attention span. Balancing the positives while reducing the negatives is the goal.

Teaching Tech Technology is an area we can’t ignore as it’s so prevalent in our lives. It’s rare to find someone who is able to fully avoid the internet and other technology. At one point, many had the attitude that we can just keep kids away, and it’ll be fine. With it being so pervasive in our daily lives, that’s no longer a realistic option. Kids will learn about technology from their friends, and they will be exposed to it from many areas. They certainly need to learn from their parents. Teaching how and when to safely use technology is a crucial part of a child’s chinuch. When they eventually confront technology – and they certainly will – they need to have been fortified and aware of the pitfalls so they can use it safely. While I won’t give an exact time to begin, this education does not need to start in toddlerhood or at a very young

75 propriate limits for their children. Personally, I try to minimize the amount of time spent on screens. This is an area where there can be some flexibility based on the circumstances. For example, a child who is sick and in pain may benefit from some distractions, and weekends or summer may be different from school nights.

usage during sleeping hours. Location: Where are screens permitted? It’s easier to provide oversight in more open areas than when sequestered in bedrooms or other private spaces. Activity: What activities are permitted? There are so many things that can be done using technology. Different activities should be looked at separately.

What to Monitor

Technology is an area we can’t ignore as it’s so prevalent in our lives.

Beyond time limits are also concerns about what time of day children are using technology. For example, screens before bed can affect sleep, and online shopping shouldn’t be done during homework time. It’s our family’s policy that technology “sleeps” overnight in an adult’s bedroom. This was set up to avoid late-night

Examples of activities include gaming, shopping, texting, search engines, etc. Social media: In many ways, this is the area that is currently drawing the most concerns. One article is too little for this topic. Please be extra cautious and very hesitant about social media. Parental controls: Many devices come with parental controls. These al-

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.

SEPTEMBER 3-9, 2026

For all categories, the decision may differ based on the individual child’s needs. Factors that affect a child’s needs include age, gender, maturity, personal sensitivities, etc. Parents should try to keep up with what’s out there so they can make educated decisions for their family. Below are just some suggestions of what parents may want to consider when creating a family’s screen policies. Content: Does the content meet your family’s standards? The first step is to decide what you consider appropriate content. Parents may be very surprised by what children are being exposed to, even on supposedly child-friendly sites. Time: How much time is being spent on the activity? Parents should set ap-

low parents to set limits for their children and will deny them access when not approved by a parent. It can be very helpful for limiting time spent and blocking unapproved content. Parents should check what the parental controls actually limit because many will allow websites that may not meet a family’s standards. Parents should periodically reevaluate their policy. This is an ever-changing area, and we need to adjust as needed. Today’s parents are challenged in unique ways as the world shifts around us. Keeping up and adapting is a continuous task. May Hashem give us the wisdom to guide our children properly on this confusing and still developing road.

THE BALTIMORE JEWISH HOME

age. I’m personally not in favor of real technology use at this time, and it’s my humble opinion that at this point it’s mostly for entertainment or convenience and it’s generally educationally unnecessary. As in all areas, parents lead by example, and we should be mindful of what we are teaching with our own behavior.

Raphael Mizrahi & Elior Basson (Hollywood, FL)

Mordechai Mayer Rosenbaum & Sarah Rivka Silberman Yisroel Meir Abrahams & Ahuva Bacharach Yitzi Bursztyn & Miriam Roness Want to see your simcha here? Email mazeltov@baltimorejewishhome.com or text 443-675-6507 to submit your simcha!

WWW.THEBJH.COM

Reuven Toban & Rivki Markowitz

SEPTEMBER 3-9, 2026

Kids Coloring Win $10 Corner

o wi n n

k•

ers

Download extra coloring sheets from thebjh.com

•

WWW.THEBJH.COM

THE BALTIMORE JEWISH HOME

to The Candy Store

y w ee

Take a picture with your artwork and submit it to

thebjh.com/kids to enter a raffle for a chance to win $10 to The Candy Store! See your picture in print the following week! Submissions due Monday, September 7

THE BALTIMORE JEWISH HOME SEPTEMBER 3-9, 2026

TT, 9

Baila, 10

Esther Bondar, 10

Sarah W., 6

Yehudis Heinemann, 10

Avraham Plonka, 5

Adina Kleinman, 6

Eliezer, 3

Eliana Yifrah, 6

Yehuda Sobel, 8

Shaina Raden, 4

Note: Not all submission have been published. Keep sending in your artwork for another chance to be featured!

WWW.THEBJH.COM

Leah Fromowitz

WWW.THEBJH.COM

THE BALTIMORE JEWISH HOME

SEPTEMBER 3-9, 2026

Eliana, Eitan & Leora

Tehila, 4

Gila Hakakian, 9

Azi Sperling, 5

Esther Meyer

Ayelet Hollander, 7

Ahuva Bracha, 6

Ori Hasidim

Ahuva Mondrow, 5

Yonatan, 4

Aviva, 3

Rena M., 11

Eli Eichhorn, 11

Gila Raczkowski, 6

Leora G., 2

Rikki, 10

Kayla K., 5

Sarah Golda, 7

Shiffy Brody, 7

Talya, 7

Yaakov, 8

Zehava Katz, 4

Tovee Bortz & Yehudis Chait

Yael Leah B.

Mussi Raichik

Note: Not all submission have been published. Keep sending in your artwork for another chance to be featured!

Apple Hand Pies By Naomi Nachman

We made these delicious apple hand pies which were a hit with the viewers as well as with fa mily and friends.

Ingredients Special Equipment Needed: apple-shaped cookie cutter

Dough • 4 cups ﬂour • 1 teaspoon salt • 1 teaspoon baking powder • 4 sticks of margarine, cut into cubes • 1 cup parve sour cream

Filling • 4 cups Granny Smith apples (diced into corn-sized pieces) • 4 teaspoons fresh lemon juice • 1 teaspoon cinnamon • 1/2 cup sugar • 4 teaspoons all purpose ﬂour • Sprinkle of cornstarch • Caramel chips (optional) • Maldon sea salt (optional) • Egg Wash • 1 beaten egg • Clear crystal sugar (optional)

and repeat. Wrap in plastic wrap and refrigerate the dough for at least 30 minutes while you prepare the ﬁlling.

SEPTEMBER 3-9, 2026

I invited my friend Joy Wilson to be a guest chef on my cooking show Sunny Side Up on Kosher.com a few years back for a Rosh Hashana episode. She is a professional baker and always comes up with fun twists of her baking products. Y ou can follow her baking adventures on Instagra m @joyofcakes.

THE BALTIMORE JEWISH HOME

In The K tchen

Prepare the Filling: In a small bowl, combine the apples, lemon juice, cinnamon, sugar, flour and cornstarch. Stir until thoroughly mixed. Set aside. Assemble the Pies: 1. Preheat the oven to 425°F. 2. Remove dough from the refrigerator and roll it out on a well-floured surface. 3. Using an apple-shaped cookie cutter, cut out as many apple shapes as possible. You can re-roll and cut out more until the dough is finished. Remember you need an even number of apples. 4. Place dough apples on a silpat or parchment-lined cookie sheets. Spoon a small portion of apple filling into the center of each apple-shaped dough. Be sure

Preparation

Prepare the Dough: 2. Add the cubed margarine to the bowl and, using your fingers, work the margarine into the flour until the mixture is the consistency of wet sand. 3. Stir in the sour cream, and then turn out the dough onto a well-floured surface. 4. Knead the dough a few times until it comes together, adding more flour, one teaspoon at a time, if the dough is too sticky to handle. Roll the dough into a rectangle and dust both sides with flour before folding into thirds, similar to folding a letter. Rotate

chips and a sprinkle of Maldon sea salt. 5. Place a second apple-shaped dough on top and, using a fork, crimp the ages together to seal each pie. 6. Brush each pie with egg wash and, using a sharp knife, cut two or three vents on top of each pie. Optionally, sprinkle the top with clear crystal sugar. 7. Bake the pies for about 15 minutes or until golden brown. Variation: Use a smaller circle cutter to make round pies (about two and a half inches) and insert a popsicle stick to make apple pie pops.

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.

WWW.THEBJH.COM

1. Whisk together the ﬂour, salt, and baking powder in a large bowl.

to leave a border around the ﬁlling. Optionally, top the apple ﬁlling with caramel

See pg pg 50

Postmaster: Please deliver by Friday, September 4

Join the BJL WhatsApp! By Baltimoreans for Baltimoreans

TRAFFIC ALERTS

BREAKING NEWS

SIMCHOS

NICHUM AVEILIM

EVENTS

Scan me

EXCLUSIVE ANNOUNCEMENTS

Join the official GWJL WhatsApp: t.ly/TD2Ug

join! to