Five Towns Jewish Home 06.11.26 by The Jewish Home

June 11, 2026

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Dear Readers,

here is a question that often surfaces as we get older: What kind of impact are we having on the people around

us? When we are younger, it is easy to focus on achievements. We measure our lives by grades, milestones, accomplishments, and goals reached. Those goalposts push us forward, help us grow, and often provide opportunities we would not otherwise have. But over time, many of us come to realize that the people who leave the deepest impression on us are not necessarily the most accomplished. They are the people who made us feel seen. Think about the teachers you remember years later. The neighbors who made you feel welcome. The friend who called at just the right moment. The relative who always had time to listen. Chances are, what made them memorable was not what they achieved but how they treated others. Etti Siegel wrote about this concept in her column last week. I heard from so many people how her words were eye-opening and enlightening – not just for them, but for their children, too. She spoke about how the most popular children were often the ones who made others feel comfortable, who thought of those around them, who lifted up the people in their circle. In many ways, the same lesson applies long after childhood ends.

We live in a world that often rewards attention. The loudest voices are frequently the ones that get noticed. But the greatest influence is often quieter. A warm smile. A thoughtful gesture. A willingness to include someone who feels left out. These are not the actions that generate headlines, but they are the actions that build families, friendships, and communities. And it’s so easy to do. It doesn’t take money or power or time to make people feel seen and heard. It’s about opening your eyes to the people around you and seeing them – really seeing them – and showing them that they are valued. As we move through our busy lives, perhaps it is worth asking ourselves a simple question: Am I trying to impress people, or am I trying to impact people? The answer may not change what we do each day, but it can change how we do it. And it can uplift our lives – along with others’ lives – in the most enduring way. At the end of the day, most people will not remember every success we achieved or every accomplishment we earned. They will remember how we made them feel. And that may be the most meaningful legacy of all. Wishing you a wonderful Shabbos, Shoshana

Yitzy Halpern, PUBLISHER

publisher@fivetownsjewishhome.com

Yosef Feinerman, MANAGING EDITOR ads@fivetownsjewishhome.com

Shoshana Soroka, EDITOR

editor@fivetownsjewishhome.com

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Shabbos Zemanim

Weekly Weather | June 12 – June 18

Friday, June 12 Parshas Shlach

FRIDAY

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MONDAY

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THURSDAY

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Candle Lighting: 8:08 pm Shabbos Ends: 9:18 pm Rabbeinu Tam: 9:39 pm

JUNE 11, 2026 | The Jewish Home

The Jewish Home | JUNE 11, 2026

Contents LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

COMMUNITY Readers’ Poll

Community Happenings

Our Voice in Albany is On the Ballot

68 NEWS

Global

National

That’s Odd

ISRAEL Israel News

Getting to Where They Need to Go by Barbara Deutsch

28 84

JEWISH THOUGHT Rabbi Wein on the Parsha

The Joy of Torah by Rav Moshe Weinberger

Why Does Hashem Send Us Challenges? by Rabbi Shmuel Reichman

Delving into the Daf by Rabbi Avrohom Sebrow

Headlines and Halacha by Rabbi Yair Hoffman

PEOPLE Inspiration Nation

Pesach Osina: Experience, Connections, and a Voice for the Community

World War II Veterans Fighting for Israel by Avi Heiligman

120

HEALTH & FITNESS School of Thought

What Your Psychiatric Provider Wishes You Knew by Rivka Kramer

100

Preparing for Summer by Dr. Hylton Lightman

102

FOOD & LEISURE The Aussie Gourmet: Korean Noodles

108 LIFESTYLES

Dating Dialogue, Moderated by Jennifer Mann, LCSW

Parenting Pearls

Dear Editor, As always, your newspaper is brimming with interesting articles on many diverse topics. On a long Shabbat day, I have the opportunity to enjoy all of the enriching columns. The essay that resonated very strongly with me in last week’s edition is entitled “Be My Guest Spring Roundup.” Kol hakavod to all those who facilitate this important project. If you have never returned home from shul to a table set for one, you cannot possibly comprehend just how sad and lonely that feeling is. If you have never dreaded the approaching of a yom tov wondering whether or not you will be invited for a meal in a sukkah or place at a Seder table, you are a very fortunate person. Leaving shul on Rosh Hashana after an inspiring davening and exchanging greetings of shana tova, only to return to an empty house with a yom tov table with a single setting is tremendously painful. As the article states, “Someone who is generally alone should feel a sense of belonging on a Seder night.” This holds true for every yom tov and on Shabbat as well. It is not always simple to identify those who desperately need an invite especially in large congregations or even in small congregations where so many other important chesed initiatives are underway. My message in emphasizing the importance of “Be My Guest” is to say that often an “alone” person is not extremely visible and can be easily overlooked. It is might be helpful to create a committee or assignee to seek out those who feel invisible who would never feel comfortable

inviting themselves for a meal. The “Be My Guest” organization is an extremely praiseworthy, inspiring group fulfilling an amazing mitzvah. In Klal Yisrael, “No one should ever feel invisible or alone.” L.S. Dear Editor, It’s that time of year again. Early primary voting begins on June 13th for this November’s election. I always beat the drums for people to come out and vote. Unfortunately, if the recent school board election is any indication, the turnout will be dismal. Looking ahead to the general election, and the State Government, the disastrous bloated budget, the mismanagement by the current administration, the acquiescence to the Mamdani agenda, the antisemitism of the DSA and many Democrats, and for so many other reasons, this community must come out and support Bruce Blakeman for governor. While Rep. Laura Gillen is certainly deserving of praise for her staunch support and defense of Israel, as well as declining to hop aboard the Zohran express, that’s where the accolades end. The congresswoman has voted time and again to rein in the Trump agenda. In a nightmare scenario of minority leader Hakeem Jeffries becoming Speaker Jeffries, Rep. Laura Gillen will likely be among the unanimous Democrat contingent voting to impeach the sitting President of the United States. The congresswoman is a member of a party along with Chuck Schumer, Hakeem Jeffries, Tom Suozzi, Kathy Hochul, et al, who have lost Continued on page 14

How Much House Can You Really Afford? by Eli Sklar 104 Al, Going Up

106

HUMOR Centerfold

Shmooze and Muse by Mordechai Schmutter

POLITICAL CROSSFIRE Notable Quotes

110

The Last Straw

114

Trump is Better Than the Alternative by Jonathan S. Tobin

116

On Patrol With Tokyo’s New Litter Police

118

CLASSIFIEDS

121

Would you rather ride a roller coaster or a ferris wheel?

80 20 %

Ferris Wheel

Roller Coaster

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The Jewish Home | JUNE 11, 2026

Continued from page 12

their way. Many have lost their minds as well. The modern Democrat Party has dropped all pretense of being pro-Israel. Even the pretense of not being anti-Semitic, “just critical of the current Israeli government.” Please! Members of the far left in their party have no qualms disseminating vile Jew hatred, and not a peep of protest from the ”highest ranking Jewish elected official” in the country, and “shomer” of the Jewish people. I am, to the best of my knowledge, coining a new phrase here. If you do not wish to see the “Zohranization” of our politics expand to this State and Country, VOTE and vote as if your life and the lives of your family depended on it. It very well might. Thomas Lax Woodmere, NY Dear Editor, As the economy struggles with high inflation, high interest rates, and a lack of affordability, many families in Lawrence—who are allegedly in a high-income bracket—have their young married children living on the border of some of the roughest parts of Queens, where homeless shelters and low-income housing are just a block away. Because housing within the Village of Lawrence has become unattainable for many young couples, they are choosing to live in neighboring Far Rockaway, within walking distance of their families. This brings me to a serious concern: families should not be playing Russian roulette with their own children’s safety. Instead of spending exorbitant and often ridiculous amounts of money on weddings and other simchas simply so people can talk about them in shul that Shabbos— “Did you see the flowers? Did you see the place?” – as one is desperately trying to outdo the other where their pockets are crying. Yet they still find a way to host these off-the-charts events, including bar mitzvahs and other simchas. This is why there is a desperate need for a takanah hall, where events are held at a fixed price for everyone. The rabbanim should enforce such a system, as it could not only save families money but potentially save lives. Living deep in Far Rockaway can present safety concerns, and reducing unnecessary simcha expenses could help young couples afford to live closer to their families, even in more expensive neighborhoods. These over-the-top events are penny-wise and dollar foolish as it’s only a few hours where rent spent lasts months

and years just by having a normal or reasonable priced takana wedding. The rabbis must get on board and tell these families that need to show off that they will refuse to perform at these pretentious, over-the-top weddings, and only then will families be at ease and comfortable to have events for the purpose of a mazal and not for the purpose of who had the nicest event ever. Reuven Guttman Lawrence, NY Dear Editor, In an age when social media metrics, group chats, and carefully curated images can make it seem as though popularity is the ultimate measure of success, Etti’s column offers an important reminder: what children – and adults! – need most is not popularity, but connection. As parents, it is natural to worry when we see our children struggling socially. We want them to be included, invited, and surrounded by friends. Etti’s article opened my eyes: the qualities that create meaningful relationships are often not the ones that attract the most attention. Kindness, empathy, resilience, and the ability to make others feel valued may not always be flashy, but they are the traits that form the foundation of lasting friendships. What makes this conversation especially relevant is that social skills are not fixed traits that some children possess and others lack. They are learned behaviors that can be nurtured at home, in school, and within our communities. Every child can grow in confidence, awareness, and emotional intelligence when given encouragement and opportunities to practice. Perhaps the most powerful takeaway is that our role as parents is not to help our children win a popularity contest, but to help them become the kind of people others enjoy being around. When we shift our focus from status to character, we give our children something far more valuable than popularity: the tools to build healthy relationships that can enrich their lives for years to come. And what better time to learn these skills than in the summer? With more time spent outdoors and not in the classrooms, children can hone these important traits – listening to their friends, being there for them, supporting them, looking out for the person who is lonely or sad… Wishing everyone a growth-filled summer! Adira K.

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The Jewish Home | JUNE 11, 2026

The Week In News

Xi and Kim Meet in N. Korea

Earthquake Slams Philippines

At least 32 people were killed after a 7.8-magnitude earthquake hit the coast of the southern Philippines on Monday morning at around 7:37 a.m. local time. Around 134 people were injured, 70,000 people were displaced, and a dozen or so people were missing, according to officials, while buildings collapsed and bridges sustained damage. The quake was the Philippines’ strongest in half a century, data from the U.S. Geological Survey shows. The earthquake itself caused 19 deaths and wreaked havoc in Sarangani and South Cotabato, two southern provinces, while the landslide that followed killed another 13 people in Glan, Sarangani. Among the damaged structures was General Santos International Airport, according to the Office of Civil Defense, with the Civil Aviation Authority suspending operations and canceling 17 flights. The earthquake also disrupted power and communications. According to President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., all local schools were closed, and the government was responding to the disaster. Many of the fatalities occurred in the city of General Santos, the “tuna capital” of the Philippines. The Philippines is one of the most seismically active countries in the world due to its location on the active Pacific Ring of Fire, the massive, 25,000-mile ring of volcanoes and tectonic plate boundaries where 90 percent of the world’s earthquakes occur.

Xi Jinping, the president of China, visited North Korea on Monday for a twoday trip, touting the countries’ close relationship during a meeting with Kim Jong Un, the leader of North Korea. It was Xi’s first trip to Pyongyang in seven years and the first country he visited this year. China and North Korea have historically been close allies, though their economic relationship has been complex, and ties somewhat soured after Pyongyang closed off its border to China during the COVID-19 pandemic. North Korean officials held an extravagant ceremony in honor of Xi and his wife, Peng Liyuan, which included a military parade and a 21-gun salute. The visit coincided with the 65th anniversary of the 1961 friendship treaty between China and North Korea. The two leaders met at the Kumsusan State Guesthouse and discussed economic cooperation, agriculture, and construction. The nations’ bond is at a “new historical starting point, facing new development opportunities and shouldering new missions of the times,” wrote Xi in an article published in Rodung Sinmun, a North Korean state newspaper, on Monday. “China stands ready to work with the DPRK [North Korea] to steer bilateral relations from a strategic perspective, keep China-DPRK relations abreast of the times, and achieve greater development of the relationship.” North Korea has supplied Russia with munitions compatible with Soviet-era weapons and more than 12,000 troops, giving Kim, the leader of one of the world’s poorest and most isolated countries, new leverage with major powers such as China and Russia. North Korea and China have long maintained a complicated partnership. The two nations often herald a friendship “forged in blood,” referring to the Korean War, in which the Chinese fought alongside the North. China is North Korea’s main economic lifeline, but Pyongyang has sought to maintain some independence from Beijing. Meanwhile, China is keen to keep

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The Jewish Home | JUNE 11, 2026

close tabs on its nuclear-armed and unpredictable neighbor. On Sunday, Kim’s sister, an influential diplomat, rejected alleged U.S. claims that the U.S. and China both want North Korea to abandon its nuclear programs. As a permanent member of the United Nations Security Council, China has often sided with Russia to veto or abstain from placing new sanctions on North Korea. U.S., Japanese and South Korean officials have raised concerns that China has decided to recognize North Korea as a nuclear state. North Korea could have enough material to have assembled some 60 warheads and enough to eventually assemble some 90, the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute said in its annual report released on Sunday. Beijing is also watching with concern the increased military cooperation between Russia and North Korea.

Stabbing in Belfast On Tuesday, police in Northern Ireland arrested a Somalian man on suspicion of attempted murder. The man had been attempting to behead his victim before passersby intervened and beat him

off the victim. UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer condemned as “horrific” and “abhorrent” the knife attack in Belfast. The victim is in serious condition. “This brutal attack will have sent shockwaves through the community causing real concern,” Assistant Chief Constable Ryan Henderson said in a statement. “We are treating this attack with the utmost seriousness.”

Police said the victim is in the hospital with “significant injuries to his face, neck and back.” The attack is the latest in a string of racially-charged incidents in the UK. Anti-immigration activist Stephen Yaxley-Lennon, known more often as Tommy Robinson, posted video of the Belfast incident online, referring to the attacker as an “invader.” It comes after the case of a murdered

British teen sparked violent protests in Southampton last week. The publication of police body cam footage last week showed officers handcuffing a dying Henry Nowak, 18, after his killer — a British-born Sikh — falsely accused him of racial abuse. Police refused to believe him when he said he’d been stabbed and couldn’t breathe. In a post on X, the U.S. State Department accused UK police of treating white people unfavorably, while Vice President JD Vance blamed European leaders’ embrace of “the politics of self-hatred” for the teenager’s death. In the House of Commons on Tuesday, politicians including Northern Ireland Secretary Hilary Benn and Gavin Robinson, a Democratic Unionist Party politician who represents Belfast East, called for calm in the wake of Tuesday’s attack. At the same time, Robinson said the incident is likely to have “profound implications for community cohesion” and called on the government to “recognize that uncontrolled immigration needs to end.” He called for the perpetrator of the attack to be deported. Northern Ireland Secretary Hilary Benn said the police probe and criminal justice system needed to be allowed to take their course, while adding: “Any foreign national who abuses the hospitality of this country to commit crimes should be in no doubt of our determination to deport them.” In April, London police arrested a British man of Somali origins following a stabbing which left two Jewish men, ages 76 and 34, in the hospital.

Elections in Armenia

On Sunday, Armenia held parliamentary elections for the first time since 2023, when it lost the Nagorno-Karabakh territory to Azerbaijan, with which it has since made peace. The ruling Civil Contract party, which is run by Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan, secured 49.8% of the vote, winning a majority in parliament. Meanwhile, opposition party Strong Armenia won

23.2%, and Armenia Alliance won 9.9%, according to the Central Election Commission (CEC). Both opposition parties support Russia, while the ruling party has grown increasingly close to the West. According to election experts, Russia attempted to interfere with the election through “public threats and trade measures.” “As members of the European Parliament, we strongly condemn this blatant interference in the domestic affairs of a sovereign state,” said Edita Estrella, a member of the Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe observer mission. Meanwhile, Moscow claims that the West interfered with the vote. Pashinyan called his party’s victory “historic.” “The Armenian people voted for regional prosperity and cooperation, and I hope this will draw a positive response from Turkey and Azerbaijan,” he said. He was congratulated by European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, who said that Armenia could rely on Europe for support. “We deeply value our partnership with a democratic Armenia that is drawing ever closer to Europe,” she said. Pashinyan’s government will face domestic and international challenges, as it doesn’t have the two-thirds majority necessary to fulfill Azerbaijan’s request that Armenia remove its claims on Nagorno-Karabakh from its constitution. Voter turnout was strong, at almost 59%.

Stranded in the Sahara

At least 49 people died of thirst in the Sahara Desert after their truck broke down, leaving them stranded for days in northern Niger last week. The victims, all Nigerien nationals, were reportedly returning home from a religious festival in Mali when their vehicle became inoperable more than 50 miles west of Assamaka, near the borders with Mali and Algeria. Two men managed to survive the harrowing ordeal, trekking over 31 miles to

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find a water source before continuing to Assamaka, where they alerted authorities to the dire situation. A delegation, dispatched to the scene by Agadez Region Governor Gen. Ibra Boulama Issa, learned that the truck had been traveling for several days from the Malian town of Talhandek, located approximately 187 miles from the Nigerien border. It was not immediately clear what led to the breakdown or how long the passengers waited. “Deprived of water and unable to repair the vehicle despite the efforts of the driver, his apprentice and passengers, travelers found themselves trapped in the heart of a hostile environment where extreme temperatures and lack of supply points make survival extremely difficult,” the governorate said. The 49 victims were buried by responders in mass graves at the scene in what officials called a “particularly delicate and emotionally exhausting task” for the survivors The responders also aided a truck carrying over 60 people, stranded for three days after its battery failed. This incident underscores the perilous journeys young Nigeriens undertake to Mali for work at artisanal mining sites,

often despite significant risks from militant groups.

Foreign Businesses Flee Cuba

As Cuba’s economy collapses, the island has been hit with yet another major setback, as international businesses flee the country. This Saturday, Mastercard and Visa are suspending transactions in Cuba by non-U.S. foreign visitors, the country’s central bank announced. Meanwhile, Iberostar and Meliá, two Spain-based hotel chains, are each giving up a dozen or more hotels in Cuba, while the Canada-based Royalton Hotels & Resorts has ended operations due to the island’s tourism collapse. Noting the reason their hotels are shutting down, Meliá cited “energy chal-

lenges and the decline in demand,” while Iberostar pointed “to the international regulatory environment.” According to Mastercard, its cards cannot be accepted in Cuba after a foreign processing partner reduced its presence in the country. Sherritt International, a Canada-based mining company, may also end operations in Cuba. If it does so, its departure would be a massive blow to the country, as the company is one of Cuba’s most valuable foreign investors, supporting the island’s mining export industry. A month ago, Sherritt announced that it was pausing operations and repatriating its workers. Sherritt’s chief financial officer and external auditor, as well as a number of board members, stepped down. After first stating that it would dissolve its Cuban joint ventures, the company changed course and disclosed a preliminary, non-binding agreement to sell a majority stake to Gillon Capital, the family investment office tied to Republican financier Ray Washburne. Jet-fuel shortages also forced a number of major airlines to cancel flights into Cuba. After years of economic mismanagement, corruption, and extensive American sanctions, Cuba entered a period of

deep economic decline. The crisis intensified when the Trump administration imposed an oil blockade in the wake of the capture of Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro, cutting off a key source of subsidized oil that Havana had relied on for years. Hundreds of thousands of Cubans have left Cuba since, with others protesting by burning garbage and banging pots. President Trump signed an executive order in May targeting GAESA, the military-controlled conglomerate that Secretary of State Marco Rubio labeled “the heart of Cuba’s kleptocratic communist system.” According to U.S. estimates, the group controls at least 40% of Cuba’s economy, including many hotels tied to foreign hospitality companies that are now scaling back their operations.

Taliban Opens Fire on Protesters Taliban forces opened fire on demonstrators in western Afghanistan after protests erupted over the arrest of women accused of violating the regime’s strict dress code, according to local media reports, human rights organizations, and United Nations officials.

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The Jewish Home | JUNE 11, 2026

The unrest began in the city of Herat after Taliban morality police reportedly detained dozens of women for allegedly failing to comply with the group’s clothing requirements. Speaking before the UN Security Council on Monday, Georgette Gagnon, acting head of the UN mission in Afghanistan, said that approximately 30 women had been arrested. Reports indicate that a pregnant woman was among those detained.

Under the Taliban’s morality laws, a woman’s face is considered awrah—a part of the body that must be concealed— requiring women to wear garments that fully cover their faces in public. The Taliban’s Ministry for the Propagation of Virtue and Prevention of Vice denied that any arrests had taken place, calling the reports “all rumors.” The ministry defended its policies, stating that “the hijab is a divine command, a law that

we are obliged to implement.” Witnesses said that armed Taliban police opened fire on a crowd of more than 100 protesters gathered in Herat. At least three people were wounded in the incident, according to the report. Other outlets reported more severe casualties. Afghanistan International said at least one person may have been killed, although the claim could not be independently verified. Amu TV reported that a child was killed during the crackdown. Sources cited by Afghanistan International also alleged that Taliban authorities detained additional protesters following the demonstration and began visiting hospitals to identify and locate injured participants. The response drew condemnation from international human rights advocates. Richard Bennett, the UN special rapporteur on human rights in Afghanistan, said he was “alarmed by excessive use of force against seemingly peaceful protesters in Herat today.” In a statement posted on social media, Bennett urged authorities to “respect citizens’ freedom of expression, especially women and girls, and avoid further harm.” Amnesty International likewise condemned the reported use of force, calling

it a “shocking escalation” in the Taliban’s ongoing restrictions on civil liberties. The organization urged the regime to “end the use of unlawful force against peaceful protesters, release those arbitrarily detained, and respect the rights of women and girls,” adding that peaceful demonstrators “should never be met with bullets and violence.”

Drone Finds Helicopter Crew

A U.S. drone boat found and rescued the crew of an American Apache helicopter that crashed near the Strait of Hormuz on Monday evening, in a first-of-its-kind operation at sea, the military said. The unmanned surface vessel, a Saronic Corsair, located the crew, who had spent two hours in the waters off the coast of Oman, and brought them to shore, according to Capt. Tim Hawkins, spokesman for U.S. Central Command. The military is investigating whether the Apache was shot down by Iranian forces, according to U.S. officials. The rescue marks an operational first for the vessels, which are part of the Navy’s artificial intelligence and drone task force that is designed to widen U.S. military capabilities in the Middle East. The mission also demonstrates the dangers of operating in the region, where Iran has shot down U.S. drones and targeted American aircraft throughout the war and subsequent ceasefire. Elite troops from the 82nd Airborne Division, which arrived in the region after the start of the war with Iran this spring, contributed to the rescue mission. The drone boat involved falls under Task Force 59, which harnesses uncrewed boats and other drones powered by AI. “When it comes to search and rescue, you utilize the best asset that is the closest and the quickest, and that was the case in this instance,” Hawkins said. The U.S. and other military forces increasingly use such vessels, more commonly known as sea drones, for military operations. American forces have recently deployed underwater sea drones to

check the Strait of Hormuz for mines. The United States is not the only country utilizing this data. In Ukraine, the country’s military has dispatched these vessels to target Russia’s Black Sea Fleet. Kyiv also recently began to use land drones to extract injured soldiers from the front line, where the proliferation of aerial drones makes it deadly for human rescue teams. Apache helicopters have played a key role in the conflict with Iran, including the standoff with Iran at sea. In May, the military used them to sink Iranian fast boats during a dangerous operation to guide commercial ships through the strait. A report in May from the Congressional Research Service listed 42 fixed-wing or rotary-wing aircraft, including drones, that were reportedly lost or damaged in the Iran war that began in late February. Many of the drones have been shot down by Iranian forces, which have continued to target U.S. aircraft during the ceasefire.

OPEC+ to Increase Oil Production

The cartel of influential oil-producing nations known as OPEC+ agreed on Sunday to increase production by 188,000 barrels per day in July as the United States and Iran struggled to reach an agreement to end the war and fully reopen the Strait of Hormuz. The move was the latest pledge in recent months by the group to step up output. In normal times, an increase by OPEC+ countries would help push prices lower. But the effective shutdown of the strait has stranded a vast portion of the world’s daily oil supply, making the increase largely symbolic. “The countries will continue to closely monitor and assess market conditions,” the consortium of oil-producing nations said in a statement and noted “the importance of adopting a cautious approach.” The decision followed a meeting, conducted remotely, of the OPEC+ countries, which include Algeria, Iraq, Kazakhstan, Kuwait, Oman, Russia and Saudi Arabia. The war in the Middle East, which

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JUNE 11, 2026 | The Jewish Home

The Jewish Home | JUNE 11, 2026

started with U.S.-Israeli strikes on Iran on February 28, followed by Iran’s closure of the strait in retaliation, has sent oil and gas prices soaring, stoked worldwide fears of inflation, and left countries scrambling for alternative energy supplies. Ships transiting the strait, a narrow route to the Persian Gulf on Iran’s southern border, had ferried about one-fifth of the world’s energy supply before the war. In response to the waterway’s effective shutdown, Saudi Arabia, Iraq, the United Arab Emirates and Kuwait have been forced to slash crude production. In May, the UAE decided to leave OPEC, dealing a blow to the Saudi Arabia-led oil cartel. That month, OPEC+ announced a modest 188,000 barrel per day increase; before that, the group had said it would raise oil production quotas by 206,000 barrels a day. Jacques Rousseau, managing director for global oil and gas at ClearView Energy Partners, a Washington-based research firm, said the new production boost means little. “Everything is in a waiting game until the strait reopens,” Rousseau said, adding, “These barrels, most of them aren’t even coming to the market because for

Saudi Arabia, Kuwait and Iraq, and previously the UAE before they left, these barrels have nowhere to go.” The longer the Strait of Hormuz remains closed, the longer it will take global inventories of oil to be replenished, potentially leading to continued higher prices, experts say. (© The New York Times)

Two Soldiers Killed in Lebanon

Last Thursday, a Hezbollah drone attack in southern Lebanon seriously wounded Cpt. Shahar Gamla, 23, who was subsequently taken to a hospital,

where he succumbed to his wounds on Saturday morning. On Friday, Sgt. Ohar Yaari, 21, passed away in southern Lebanon as a result of what authorities suspect was an accidental firearm discharge. Gamla served as a deputy squad commander in the Commando Brigade’s Egoz Unit. He was from Natur, a moshav in the Golan Heights. Yaari, a soldier in the Givati Brigade’s Shaked Battalion, was from the city of Rehovot. The Military Police are investigating both incidents. On Saturday, Israel said that it had hit about 150 Hezbollah infrastructure sites in southern Lebanon, including weapon depots, command centers, rocket launchers, and more. Earlier that day, the IDF issued mass evacuation orders that covered most residents of southern Lebanon. Although a ceasefire is technically in effect between Israel and Hezbollah, ongoing strikes have called the truce’s status into question. Lebanon is also involved in negotiations between the United States and Iran, as Lebanese officials meet with their Pakistani counterparts amid talks. Last week, a conditional ceasefire deal was unveiled by Israeli and Lebanese envoys in Washington, requiring Hezbollah to stop attacking and pull back from Israel’s border. However, Hezbollah has said it wouldn’t accept the deal and that Israel must withdraw completely from Lebanon.

Ex-Mossad Agent: Iran Will Collapse

According to a retired senior Mossad agent who served in the agency for nearly three decades, the United States’ decision in April to pause the war with Iran interfered with a Mossad-led plan to achieve regime change. However, the agent, who used the pseudonym “Aleph,” said that the Iranian regime will likely collapse regardless, sooner or later. “We didn’t try all the way — we were stopped along the way,” the former agent, who retired last year, said. “This is a multi-stage plan that has been prepared over time and has been paused for the

time being. In this war, we went out with a partner, a strategic power that at some point stopped the fighting, but these stages started and developed, including the use of Kurdish partners, with the goal of replacing the regime.” After Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and then-Mossad Director David Barnea presented the plan to U.S. officials months ago, CIA Director John Ratcliffe and U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio reportedly dismissed Israel’s regime change plan as “farcical” and unrealistic. Aleph, in an interview with Channel 12, rejected the U.S.’s description of the plan, insisting that it was realistic, given the Mossad’s expertise. “Whether it will fall in six months or in three years, I cannot predict, but there is no doubt that this regime will fall,” he added. Aleph added that the U.S. and Israel’s twelve-day war with Iran in June 2025 involved unprecedented Mossad operations in Iran. In recent years, the agency has boosted recruitment and training for agents from enemy countries, giving them assignments usually reserved for Israeli agents. Aleph also said he would be “very surprised if Israel did not know precisely” the condition of Iran’s new supreme leader, Ayatollah Mojtaba Khamenei, who hasn’t been seen or heard from since being injured in the Israeli-U.S. attacks on February 28 that eliminated his father, Ali Khamenei, and started the now-paused war with Iran.

Terror Attack in Central Israel

One IDF reservist was killed on Sunday and five people were injured in a shooting spree carried out by an Arab Israeli terrorist, who was, soon thereafter, shot dead by security forces. Master Sgt. (res.) Haim Kalomiti, a 55-year-old reservist, father of three, and civil defense squad member from Tzur Natan, was killed in the attack. He served in the Ephraim Regional Brigade. According to the Prime Minister’s Office, Kalomiti “engaged the terrorist and courageously defended the residents of

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Netanyahu Calls Off Strike

Tzur Natan from the despicable terrorist who embarked on a murderous shooting spree.” He “was killed while going out to save lives and worked extensively for the security of the State of Israel,” the Drom HaSharon Regional Council said. The terrorist first shot two men in their 30s at a gas station near Kochav Ya’ir, leaving one in serious condition. A 31-year-old man and a 61-year-old woman were then shot in Tzur Yitzchak’s entrance, sustaining moderate injuries, and

two other men were subsequently shot outside Tzur Natan, including Kalomiti and the moshav’s security coordinator, who was seriously wounded. All three communities, which are near each other, are close to Israel’s Judea and Samaria security barrier. The terrorist was named as Omar Yassin, a 20-something resident of Tayibe, an Arab town near Kochav Ya’ir. He left Tayibe at around 10:30 a.m. in an illegal vehicle with Israeli license plates, carry-

ing a makeshift “Carlo” submachine gun. At around 11:03 a.m., police caught up to the murderer and neutralized him. Soon thereafter, the suspect’s accomplice, who was also in his 20s and from Tayibe, was detained. According to police, he attempted to stab police detectives with a glass bottle during his arrest, though no one was hurt.

According to reports, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu canceled a massive strike on Iran following a phone conversation with U.S. President Donald Trump, who warned the Israeli premier against going through with the attacks. The operation was reportedly canceled at the last moment, right before the aircraft were about to take off. On Monday evening, Netanyahu announced that Israel’s strikes on Iran would pause for the time being, just a day after the two countries exchanged fire for the first time since the ceasefire started in early April. Iran attacked Israel after the Jewish state retaliated against Hezbollah for bombing northern Israel. “After Iran attacked Israel, I directed the IDF to strike military and economic targets throughout Iran,” Netanyahu said. “At present, the fire on this front has been halted, because after the terrorist regime in Tehran was struck, it stopped attacking us.” “If that terrorist regime makes the mistake of attacking us again, we will respond with force,” the prime minister warned. “Today, Iran and Hezbollah are weaker than ever, and we are stronger than ever. But our struggle against them is not yet over.” In a call with Channel 12, Trump reportedly told Netanyahu on Sunday night not to retaliate against Iran’s ballistic missile attacks, warning that the premier “better be careful, or you will be on your own very soon.” Trump insisted that a potential deal with Iran would render the strikes unnecessary, and that, should negotiations fall through, the U.S. would lead a renewed series of attacks on Iran. Despite Trump’s warnings, Netanyahu consulted with senior security officials and followed through with retaliatory strikes, though he stopped short of launching a major strike, following more pressure from Trump. National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir urged Netanyahu to defy Trump and keep striking Iran, while Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich called for continued attacks on Hezbollah.

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“We are on the same page as Trump,” Netanyahu reportedly said. “He is not releasing Iran’s frozen funds, he is determined to secure the nuclear material, and he is maintaining the pressure. Why should we pick a fight with him?”

Air Pollution Leads to Migraines

Air pollution has long been linked to serious health problems ranging from respiratory disease to heart conditions, but new Israeli research suggests it may also play a significant role in triggering migraine attacks. A study conducted by researchers at Soroka University Medical Center and Ben-Gurion University of the Negev found that both air pollution and extreme climate conditions are associated with an increased risk of migraines, potentially

offering new ways to predict attacks before they occur. The findings were published in the journal Neurology and analyzed health data from 7,032 adult migraine patients in the Beersheba area between 2000 and 2023. Researchers examined how daily exposure to air pollution and weather conditions affected urgent medical visits for migraines and the use of migraine medications such as triptans. The study found that short-term spikes in air pollution, particularly nitrogen dioxide from traffic and fine airborne particles from dust, industry, and smoke, were linked to a higher likelihood of acute migraine attacks. Long-term exposure to those same pollutants was associated with more frequent and severe migraines. The research team was led by Ido Peles and included Lena Novak, Michal Gordon, Batya Sarov, and neurologist Gal Ifergan. “Prevalence is about three times higher in women than in men,” Ifergan said, noting that migraines often begin in a person’s twenties and may be influenced by hormonal factors. He added that while genetics play a role, environmental conditions appear to be an important contributor as well. “There’s a biological tendency to get

migraines, but we showed from our data that air pollution is also a major factor,” he said. The Beersheba region’s climate, characterized by hot, dry summers and significant temperature swings between day and night, provided researchers with a unique setting to study how weather and pollution interact. The study suggests that environmental conditions influence migraines in multiple ways. Prolonged exposure to heat, humidity, and pollution may increase a person’s sensitivity over time, while sudden increases in pollution can act as immediate triggers. “We see that the environment plays a dual role,” Peles said. “A better understanding of these connections could in the future allow for the prediction of high-risk days and help patients prepare in advance.” Researchers said future studies will explore whether factors such as neighborhood design, proximity to parks, and housing types could help protect against migraines. They also suggested that environmental risk alerts could one day be delivered through smartphone apps or messaging services, helping patients and doctors better anticipate attacks and tailor treatment strategies accordingly.

The Next Gov. of California?

The odds of Xavier Becerra winning California’s gubernatorial election were so low in March — at just 3% — that he didn’t even qualify to participate in a debate. But now, in a surprising turn of events, Becerra has become the Democratic Party’s frontrunner in the upcoming California gubernatorial election, gaining enough votes in the primary to advance to the general election in November. Becerra, 68, served in the House of Representatives from 1993 to 2017, before replacing then-incoming Sen. Kamala Harris as California’s attorney general,

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serving until 2021, when then-President Joe Biden selected Becerra to lead the Department of Health and Human Services. Before rising in the polls, he trailed behind Democratic candidates Eric Swalwell, who was a congressman at the time, former congresswoman Katie Porter, and Tom Steyer, a billionaire activist. He was also polling behind Steve Hilton and Chad Bianco, two Republican candidates. Democrats initially preferred Swalwell, a younger, more audacious candidate, as term-limited Gov. Gavin Newsom’s successor, viewing Becerra as a relic from the days of the Biden administration. But after Swalwell dropped out of the race and resigned from Congress amid assault allegations, Becerra took his place, quickly becoming the frontrunner in the race. If elected, Becerra would become the first Latino governor of California since Romualdo Pacheco, who served for less than a year as the state’s governor in 1875. The primary ballots are still being counted. Depending on the results, Becerra might face Hilton, a Republican, or Steyer, a fellow Democrat, in November. According to a recent poll, around 37% of Latino voters say they would vote for Becerra, while 17% preferred Republican candidate Bianco and 12% said they supported Hilton.

Fewer Childhood Egg Allergies Now

According to an Australia-based study released Monday in the JAMA Pediatrics journal, the prevalence of egg allergy in children has dropped by over 17% since guidelines began advising parents to start feeding their children eggs at six months old instead of following the previous guideline of 1 to 3 years old. The new research indicates that children introduced to allergenic foods earlier are less likely to develop allergies to those foods. A similar phenomenon has been observed with other allergenic foods, such as peanuts. The American Academy of Pediatrics, in 2000, recommended that parents wait to feed their baby eggs until age two if the child has a high risk for allergies. How-

ever, by 2008, the organization revised its recommendation, advising parents to begin feeding their children eggs at six months. In Australia, those guidelines were updated in 2016. Data for over 7,000 infants between the ages of 11 and 15 months old were included in the study. Studying the ages when eggs were introduced, researchers found that a 17.7% relative decrease in egg allergies happened among the group of kids who were introduced to eggs at around six months. Around 1.3% of U.S. children younger than five are allergic to eggs, although most outgrow the allergy by age 16. “The immune system is ready to learn about foods in a helpful and normal way when the food is eaten and enters the gut. In that context, the immune system typically learns to recognize and intelligently accept the food. But if the gut immune system is not seeing the food, it is not learning,” explained Dr. Scott Sicherer, professor of pediatrics and director of the Jaffe Food Allergy Institute at the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai in New York. “At the same time, if the food is around the baby, it is a part of the environment, and may be touching baby skin and in the air being inhaled. Exposure to the skin or by inhalation could trick the immune system to think the food is an invader to be attacked,” he added. “In particular, babies with eczema have a poor skin barrier and skin inflammation, and so if they are not eating the food early, their skin immune cells may be especially ready to see that food in the wrong way.”

The Dangers of Alcohol

A study that found that even low levels of drinking alcohol can increase health risks was published in full on Tuesday in an independent journal. The study found that the lifetime risk of dying from an alcohol-related cause, including injuries and road accidents, stood at at least 1 in 1,000 for Americans having one drink per day, but that this rose to 1 in 100 for those consuming two drinks per day. For American men, con-

suming two drinks per day – a rate widely seen to constitute moderate drinking – the risk was 1 in 25, the study found. According to the study, even one drink a day was associated with increased risks of certain cancers and injuries. But not everyone agrees with the study’s findings. The alcohol industry and some U.S. lawmakers say the study’s methodology was flawed and opaque, and that the process was rife with bias and conflicts of interest and led by scientists opposed to alcohol use. The Trump Administration opted to use a separate study from the non-profit National Academies of Sciences, Engineering and Medicine to inform a recent alcohol update. That study found that moderate drinking is associated with a lower risk of dying from any cause. A group of six U.S. health officials had in early 2025 been drafting a proposal to tighten alcohol advice for Americans to one drink per day for all genders, versus two drinks per day for men and one for women in the 2020-2025 Dietary Guidelines. The Trump Administration ultimately published new advice that guided Americans to drink less for better health but without advice on servings.

Blanche Nominated for A.G.

President Donald Trump has officially nominated Todd Blanche, his former personal attorney and current acting attorney general, to lead the Justice Department on a permanent basis, setting the stage for what could become a contentious Senate confirmation battle. Blanche, who has served as acting attorney general since Trump dismissed Pam Bondi in April, has quickly emerged as one of the administration’s most loyal legal allies. Before taking the department’s top job on an interim basis, he served as deputy attorney general and previously represented Trump in several high-profile criminal cases. The White House formally submitted Blanche’s nomination to the Senate on Monday, following Trump’s public indication last week that he intended to elevate him to the position permanently.

bers “86 47.” Other cases targeting political figures, including New York Attorney General Letitia James, have drawn criticism from legal experts. Speaking on Fox News over the weekend, Blanche said his primary goal as attorney general would be “executing on the president’s priorities” and “making this country safe again.”

Judge Blocks $100K Visa Fee

A federal judge has struck down the Trump administration’s controversial $100,000 fee on H-1B visa applications, delivering a major setback to the president’s efforts to tighten legal immigration pathways. In a ruling issued on Monday, U.S. District Judge Leo Sorokin determined

that the fee amounted to an unauthorized tax and exceeded the president’s legal authority. The decision nullifies a September policy that increased the cost of sponsoring a highly skilled foreign worker from several thousand dollars to more than $100,000. The administration had argued that the fee was intended to discourage companies from relying on foreign labor and to protect American workers. When announcing the policy, the White House said the H-1B program had been used to “replace, rather than supplement, American workers with lower-paid, lower-skilled labor.” A coalition of 20 Democratic attorneys general challenged the measure in federal court, arguing that the administration lacked the power to impose such a dramatic fee increase without congressional approval. Sorokin agreed. In his ruling, the judge concluded that the charge functioned as a tax rather than a penalty and therefore required authorization from Congress. He also cited a recent Supreme Court decision limiting the administration’s authority to impose certain tariffs without legislative approval. The White House vowed to appeal the decision.

“President Trump has clear legal authority to restrict entry of any class of aliens he determines is not in America’s best interests,” White House spokesperson Taylor Rogers said following the decision. The H-1B program issues 65,000 visas annually to highly skilled foreign workers, with an additional 20,000 available to applicants holding advanced degrees. The visas are widely used by technology firms, healthcare providers, universities, and other employers seeking specialized talent. New York Attorney General Letitia James, who helped lead the lawsuit, hailed the ruling as a victory for businesses and immigrant communities. “Today a court put an end to this administration’s illegal attempt to destroy this critical program and the many jobs it makes possible,” James said. The fee drew fierce opposition from the technology industry, which warned that the enormous increase would discourage companies from hiring skilled workers and weaken America’s competitiveness in fields such as artificial intelligence, engineering, and scientific research. Before the policy change, employers generally paid between $2,000 and

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Blanche’s path to confirmation, however, may not be smooth. Several Republican senators have expressed concerns about Blanche’s leadership, particularly regarding a controversial proposal to establish a $1.776 billion “anti-weaponization fund.” The fund, created as part of a settlement involving the disclosure of Trump’s tax returns, was intended to compensate individuals who claimed they had been unfairly targeted by government actions. Critics on both sides of the aisle blasted the proposal. Democrats labeled it a potential “slush fund” for Trump allies, while some Republicans worried it could provide compensation to convicted Jan. 6 rioters and other lawbreakers. Republican Sen. Thom Tillis said he remains undecided on Blanche’s nomination, though he acknowledged that the Justice Department’s decision to abandon the fund after a court challenge “improves Todd’s chances.” Blanche has also faced scrutiny over several investigations and prosecutions launched during his tenure. Among the most controversial was the Justice Department’s case against former FBI Director James Comey, who was charged after posting a social media image showing seashells arranged to form the num-

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$5,000 per application. Critics argued that raising the cost to six figures would effectively shut many businesses out of the program. Despite the legal setback, the administration continues to reshape the H-1B system through other measures, including replacing the visa lottery with a selection process that prioritizes higher-paid and more highly skilled applicants.

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Spencer Pratt Out of Mayoral Race Nithya Raman, a progressive member of the Los Angeles City Council, pulled ahead of the reality TV star Spencer Pratt in the Los Angeles mayoral primary on Sunday, as a surge in the vote count signaled a potential shift in the race for second place.

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Five days after the election deadline, it remained officially undetermined who will face Mayor Karen Bass, the incumbent, in the November contest to decide who will lead the nation’s second most populous city. Late returns trended heavily in favor of the liberals who make up an overwhelming majority of the city’s electorate. Bass, 72, a former Democratic congresswoman who has already advanced

to the November runoff, remained in the lead with 34.7 percent of the vote, according to the updated tally released by the Los Angeles County Registrar-Recorder/ County Clerk’s office. Raman, 44, who has steadily gained ground as the count has progressed, had 27.1 percent, enough to overtake Mr. Pratt by a little more than 3,000 votes. He had been running in second place since election night. A resident of Pacific Palisades who lost his home in the fire and channeled the fury of his neighbors, Pratt, 42, a Republican, dropped to third place with 26.7 percent of the vote.

A Los Angeles mayoral candidate can win outright by receiving a majority of votes in the primary. Otherwise, the top two finishers regardless of party advance to a November runoff in the nonpartisan race. Los Angeles residents vote by mail in large numbers, and ballot counting is a slow process, with leads often shifting as the tally drags on for days or even weeks. Mail-in ballots with an Election Day postmark are accepted by county election officials through June 9. On social media shortly after the recent update, Pratt suggested, without providing evidence, that fraudulent votes from homeless people might have affected Raman’s total. Alex Stack, a campaign spokesman for Bass, signaled the likely points of contention between the two if Raman ultimately takes the second slot on the ballot. Though her support has been eroded by the wildfires and general voter angst in the city, Bass has largely maintained the support of the center-left establishment in the city while Raman has been backed by a younger and more progressive base. “We look forward to winning a contest against an opponent who allows encampments near schools and fights against hiring more cops,” Stack said in a statement, “yet is M.I.A. on saving Hollywood jobs and fighting back when ICE invades L.A.”

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Combatting Screwworm in Livestock

Three additional cases of the destructive New World screwworm have been confirmed in Texas and New Mexico, raising concerns among ranchers and agriculture officials as they work to contain a pest capable of devastating livestock populations. The U.S. Department of Agriculture announced on Monday that the latest infections include two calves and a goat in Texas, along with a small dog in neighboring New Mexico. The discovery brings the total number of confirmed cases in the United States to five. The New World screwworm is not actually a worm but the larval stage of a fly. Unlike ordinary maggots that feed on

dead tissue, screwworm larvae burrow into living flesh, creating painful wounds that can lead to severe infections and even death if left untreated. The New Mexico case has drawn particular attention because the dog had not traveled to either Texas or Mexico, prompting investigators to search the surrounding area for signs of additional infestations. “If they find infected flies, animal inspections in the area will increase,” said New Mexico State Veterinarian Samantha Holeck. Officials have established quarantine zones roughly 12 miles wide around each confirmed case in an effort to slow the parasite’s spread. Scientists are especially worried about the potential impact on Texas’ massive cattle industry and the state’s millions of wild white-tailed deer. Experts caution, however, that the increase in confirmed cases does not necessarily mean the outbreak is rapidly expanding. “When that first case is seen, everyone is being vigilant and their eyes are on it more intensely,” said Edward Burgess. “And when you are looking for something, you are more likely to see it.” The USDA has been preparing for this possibility since screwworm was detected

in Mexico in late 2024. One of the agency’s primary weapons is an unusual but highly successful strategy: releasing millions of sterile male flies. Because female screwworm flies mate only once, mating with a sterile male prevents future generations from developing. Federal officials are now increasing sterile fly production and moving forward with plans for a $750 million breeding facility in Texas. “This is a highly treatable condition if you act on it immediately,” Gov. Greg Abbott said, urging ranchers to closely monitor livestock and wildlife. Not everyone agrees with the federal strategy. Texas Agriculture Commissioner Sid Miller has advocated using poison bait instead, dismissing concerns about unintended consequences. For now, agriculture officials are hoping that sterile flies will ultimately win the battle.

Pardon For Inside Trader Former Congressman

President Donald Trump has granted a full pardon to former Indiana congressman Steve Buyer, wiping away a 2023 insider-trading conviction that had sent the longtime Republican lawmaker to prison. The pardon is the latest in a series of clemency actions Trump has framed as a response to what he describes as the political weaponization of the Justice Department during the Biden administration. Buyer becomes the 13th current or former member of Congress to receive a presidential pardon from Trump during his two terms in office. Buyer, 67, served in the U.S. House of Representatives from 1993 to 2011 and was later accused by federal regulators of using confidential corporate information to enrich himself through stock trades. According to the Securities and Exchange Commission, Buyer used his position as a corporate consultant to gain access to nonpublic information about upcoming business deals in 2018 and 2019. Prosecutors alleged that he purchased stock before major announce-

ments and then sold the shares after prices rose, earning more than $300,000 in illegal profits. A federal jury convicted Buyer in 2023. At sentencing, Judge Richard M. Berman said the evidence against him “screams guilty” and described the verdict as anything but a close call. Buyer was sentenced to 22 months in prison. Buyer has continued to maintain his innocence. In announcing the pardon, Trump highlighted Buyer’s military and public service record, calling his congressional career “distinguished and highly productive.” Buyer is a veteran of the Persian Gulf War and, during his time in Congress, served as one of the House prosecutors during President Bill Clinton’s 1998 impeachment trial. The pardon was backed by a number of prominent Republicans, including Sens. Lindsey Graham and Roger Wicker, former House Speaker John Boehner, former senator Rick Santorum, and former House Majority Leader Tom DeLay. Supporters argued that Buyer was the victim of politically motivated prosecution. A letter signed by former Republican lawmakers described him as “the victim of lawfare conducted by the Biden Administration.” Attorneys representing Buyer praised the decision, saying the pardon recognizes that the charges “should never have been brought” and marks an important step toward clearing his name.

CIA Employee Had Fake Spy Ring

A CIA employee who was found recently with $40 million of gold bars in his house had created a secret intelligence program to funnel millions of dollars from the federal government to himself, according to two U.S. officials. David Rush, the employee, created a fake “special access program,” a sensitive intelligence tool that has highly limited visibility even within the CIA, the officials said. Rush was arrested late last month and charged with theft of public funds

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based on a lie about joining the Navy Reserve after serving in that branch of the military, from which he was discharged in 2015, according to court documents. Prosecutors accused him of getting unwarranted pay by filling out time sheets based on the fraudulent claim of being a Navy reservist. Rush, a CIA officer for 17 years, was arrested on May 19 after FBI agents found 303 gold bars weighing about 1 kilogram (2.2 pounds) each in Rush’s home, according to an affidavit. The agents also seized nearly three dozen luxury watches, many of them Rolexes. The U.S. officials who said that Rush had created a fake “special access program” did not provide details of the program or explain how Rush used it to take government money. People familiar with the investigation said Rush’s fake program on paper was related to “continuity of government operations.” Continuity of operations usually refers to the government being able to operate during a national disaster or an attack. Rush “read in” two colleagues into the program in a manner that prevented them from talking to others about it. Then he persuaded one of them to transfer millions of dollars to the program via

the government contract that was fraudulent, the people said. From last November to March, Rush asked for, and received, “a significant quantity of foreign currency and tens of millions of dollars in gold bars for work-related expenses,” court documents said. When the CIA conducted a review of where the gold and currency were stashed, the agency was “unable to locate the gold bars or significant amounts of the foreign currency,” the documents said. Rush also had $2 million in U.S. currency in his home. Rush’s case has raised questions about the CIA’s employee vetting process and the agency’s oversight of sensitive intelligence work. (© The New York Times)

USAID: 101 UNRWA Employees Had Hamas Ties The U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) has referred 101 current and former employees of the United Nations Relief and Works Agency

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for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA) to the U.S. State Department for possible suspension or disbarment due to alleged involvement in the October 7, 2023, Hamas attacks and/or affiliation with the terror group, according to a recent report from USAID’s Office of Inspector General.

The individuals identified include school principals, teachers, security personnel, attendants, psychosocial counselors, and medical professionals who worked for UNRWA. USAID said some had been previously referred, while additional evidence uncovered during ongoing investigations prompted further action. According to the report, several of the employees allegedly held positions within Hamas’s military wing, the Izzadin al-Qassam Brigades. USAID said two deputy school principals served in senior roles within the organization. Another UNRWA employee allegedly acted as a deputy company commander in Hamas’s Ain Gallout/5th Infantry Battalion, while another reportedly served as a squad leader in the Khan Yunis Brigade’s 2nd Infantry Battalion. The report also alleges that a deputy school principal functioned as a platoon commander in Hamas’s Nuseirat Battalion and handled communications responsibilities during the October 7 attacks. A separate employee, identified as a teacher, allegedly transported two anti-tank missiles to a designated location for use during the assault. If the State Department moves forward with suspensions or disbarments, the individuals would be prohibited from working for any aid organization receiving U.S. government funding. USAID’s referrals have already resulted in at least one disbarment. Hafez Mousa Mohammed Mousa, identified as an operative in Hamas’s East Jabaliya Battalion, was barred after investigators concluded he coordinated communications with other suspected Hamas members during the October 7 attack while serving as a principal at an UNRWA school. UNRWA said it is cooperating with the investigation and emphasized its commitment to neutrality. “We take these allegations very, very

seriously, and any allegation of neutrality breach made against staff will be taken very seriously, and that includes alleged membership in sanctioned Palestinian groups,” an UNRWA spokesperson. The spokesperson added, “We have a zero-tolerance policy for neutrality breaches, and that means there is no place in UNRWA for terrorists, or criminals, or those who don’t share the values of the United Nations.” UNRWA said it has provided information to USAID investigators and remains willing to supply additional material as needed. The agency said it would respond to allegations supported by corroborated evidence.

Five Stabbed at Penn Station

For thousands of commuters, New York City’s Penn Station is a place to catch a train. On Sunday evening, it became the scene of chaos. Five people were stabbed in what authorities believe was a random attack inside the busy transit hub, sending victims, witnesses, and first responders scrambling as bloodshed erupted during the evening rush. The violence unfolded shortly before 7 p.m. when a man later identified as 51-year-old Hector De Leon allegedly began attacking people inside the station. According to Amtrak Police, officers immediately launched a search and apprehended the suspect within minutes. Video from the scene shows multiple officers tackling the suspect before taking him away in a wheelchair through the NJ Transit concourse. A knife was later recovered by investigators. Six people, including the suspect, were transported to area hospitals. Police sources said the oldest victim is about 60 years old, while one victim suffered serious injuries. For witness-turned-victim Henry Obadiah, the attack came without warning. “I’m lucky to be alive,” he told reporters after receiving stitches for cuts to the right side of his face and lip. Obadiah said he had just arrived at

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Penn Station on an NJ Transit train when he saw the suspect shove another person. “And then he looks at me with this rage in his face,” Obadiah recalled. “He came at me for no reason.” The 60-year-old described a scene that quickly descended into panic. “There was blood all over the place,” he said. “Cops are running in all directions.” Investigators believe the attack was random. Law enforcement sources say the suspect is believed to be homeless and emotionally disturbed, though there is currently no indication of any connection to terrorism. Witness Michael Christian said he had seen the man before around the station. “He was just screaming, waving his head around,” Christian said. “I didn’t think he was capable of doing anything.”

A Second Triple Crown Victory

Golden Tempo isn’t chasing history anymore — he’s setting the pace. The Kentucky Derby winner added another jewel to his collection on Saturday evening, storming down the stretch at Saratoga Race Course to capture the 2026 Belmont Stakes and secure his second Triple Crown victory of the season. Starting from the far outside in post 9, Golden Tempo (6-1) bided his time before unleashing a powerful late charge that left the competition eating dust. By the time the field reached the wire, Commandment (6-1) and heavily favored Renegade (8-5) were racing for second place. For owner Vinnie Viola, trainer Cherie DeVaux, and jockey Jose Ortiz, the victo-

ry was another trip to the winner’s circle and another very large paycheck. After banking $3.1 million with his Kentucky Derby triumph, Golden Tempo added another $1.2 million from the Belmont’s $2 million purse. Not a bad day’s work for a horse that apparently believes mile-and-a-quarter races are his personal playground. The victory also continued a growing trend in Triple Crown racing. Golden Tempo became the second consecutive horse to win both the Kentucky Derby and Belmont Stakes while skipping the Preakness, following Sovereignty’s path in 2025. Apparently, absence really does make the victories grow fonder. Commandment finished a strong second to earn $360,000, while morning-line favorite Renegade had to settle for third and a $200,000 consolation prize. Chief Wallabee crossed fourth, followed by Emerging Market, Growth Equity, Vitruvian Man, and Ottinho. Only one horse in the nine-horse field left Saratoga empty-handed, proving that in this race, nearly everyone got a participation trophy. Golden Tempo’s Belmont triumph pushed his Triple Crown earnings to an eye-popping $4.3 million this year. For bettors who stayed loyal to the Derby champion, the payoff was almost as sweet as the victory itself. The Belmont may be known as the “Test of the Champion,” but on Saturday, Golden Tempo looked like he already had the answers.

Reaching New Heights Mount Everest is known for taking people’s breath away. This week, it nearly took a climber — and then gave him one of the greatest comeback stories the mountain has ever seen. A Nepali climbing guide who was presumed dead after disappearing high on Everest has been found alive, six days after he was last seen descending from the world’s highest peak. Dawa Sherpa, 52, an experienced

Did you know? The world’s largest scoop of ice cream was created in June 2014 by Kemps Dairy in Wisconsin. It was 5’6” high and 6’2” wide, weighed 3,000 pounds, and was made from 733 containers of ice cream.

mountaineer known as “Hillary” Dawa Sherpa after legendary Everest conqueror Sir Edmund Hillary, was last spotted above Camp 3 at an altitude of roughly 24,600 feet. After reaching the summit, he vanished during the descent, sparking fears that he had become another casualty of the mountain’s notoriously unforgiving conditions.

At that altitude, even breathing is hard work. Surviving alone for nearly a week? That’s the kind of feat that sounds more like a miracle. On Thursday, members of a cleanup crew spotted Sherpa slowly making his way down through the Khumbu Icefall toward Base Camp. Frostbitten but alive, he was essentially conducting his own rescue mission. “Dawa managed to survive against all odds for days. It’s nothing short of a miracle,” said Pemba Sherpa, executive director of 8K Expeditions, the company overseeing search efforts. “This is a true self-rescue.” In a season that has already claimed five lives on Everest, including three Nepali workers helping prepare the mountain for climbers, Sherpa’s survival stands out as a rare piece of good news above the clouds. According to rescuers, no one is known to have survived alone for that long at such an extreme altitude on Everest. Pemba Sherpa speculated that Dawa may have sheltered in abandoned tents along the route, using whatever protection he could find against freezing temperatures and brutal winds. After being airlifted from the mountain, Sherpa was taken to a hospital in Kathmandu, where doctors reported that he was awake and communicating. His daughter, Mhendo Lhamo Sherpa, said he recognized her and was speaking normally. The emotional turnaround has been dramatic. Before news of his rescue arrived, Sherpa’s wife had already performed last-rite prayers for his soul. Meanwhile, climber Chris Thrall, a former British Royal Marine who had been descending with Sherpa before he disappeared, had posted a tribute on social media believing his friend had died. Now, that farewell post has become something much happier: proof that on

Everest, sometimes the final chapter isn’t written until the climber reaches base camp. Now, he seems even “boulder” than ever.

Flight of Fancy

A Houston airport security breach has left aviation officials doing what airlines hate most: explaining how “no boarding pass” somehow still turned into “welcome aboard.” A 25-year-old man is accused of slipping through TSA at George Bush Intercontinental Airport using a fake boarding pass—one that allegedly didn’t scan, didn’t validate, and still apparently made it further than it should have. He passed screening anyway, which is usually good news—unless you’re screening boarding passes. He later tried his luck at the gate. It worked again. We give him an A+ for persistence – and a failing grade for TSA screeners who are supposed to be guarding our safety. At one point, the illicit passenger allegedly boarded a United flight to Los Angeles, then disappeared into the airplane bathroom, possibly the only place on earth where you can evade both TSA and seat assignment logic. A passenger eventually noticed something off—specifically, that the man wasn’t on the manifest, which is aviation’s polite way of saying: “Who are you and how did you get here?” The plane returned to the gate, everyone deplaned, and the airport got a threehour reminder that “security layers” are only helpful if they’re actually layered. Authorities say the ticket was either fake or tied to a canceled reservation. The suspect’s attorney argues he may have believed it was legitimate, which is the rare defense that sits somewhere between “honest mistake” and “extremely expensive misunderstanding of QR codes.” Either way, the flight eventually took off—just with a slightly longer pre-flight existential crisis than usual. Fasten your seatbelts, folks. This is going to be a really long ride.

JUNE 11, 2026 | The Jewish Home

The Jewish Home | JUNE 11, 2026

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Community Young Israel of Lawrence-Cedarhurst Community Wide Carnival

he carnival was held this past Sunday June 7. Our heartfelt thanks to Dovid Elgamil for sin-

gle-handedly championing this event for our community.

JUNE 11, 2026 | The Jewish Home

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The Jewish Home | JUNE 11, 2026

The menahel of Yeshiva Ketana of Queens Rabbi Kesslar, shlita, at the Pre-1A chumash seudah

The third grade of Yeshiva Ketana of Queens with the tzitzis they made with their rebbi, Rabbi Krasner

Friendship Circle June Recap

he Friendship Circle held its annual Volunteer Appreciation awards ceremony this past Sunday, honoring the many young men and women who’ve dedicated their time, energy, and hearts to making a difference in the lives of individuals with special needs. Each volunteer received a certificate of appreciation signed by Nassau County

Executive Bruce Blakeman, recognizing their contributions to the community. During the event, Rabbi Wolowik commended the volunteers for their commitment to gemilus chassadim, and MG Craft Kitchen’s Moshe Glenn, who has a daughter with special needs, addressed the volunteers, applauding their dedication, emphasizing the power of chessed,

and sharing an emotional prayer he penned. We were also privileged to hear from another Friendship Circle parent, Karin Holzer, who reflected on the unbelievable difference our volunteers have made in her son’s life. Additionally, we heard from a few of our graduating high school volunteers, Michoel Groyer, who spoke at the boys’ ceremony, and Leesy Berger and Molly Buchbinder, who addressed the girls, sharing how volunteering at the Friendship Circle has impacted their lives. The event was special and heartfelt, capping off another beautiful year at the Friendship Circle. But though the year

is winding down, the Friendship Circle still has a lot of fun in store for this summer. On Sunday, June 21, we’re holding our annual Family Fun Day event — an afternoon of fun for the whole family! The event (which is free of charge!) will include a “funny man” show, moon bounce, face painting, arts and crafts, lots of sensory fun, and more. To RSVP or learn more, please email Batsheva@ chabad5towns.com. And be sure to visit fc5towns.com if you’re interested in volunteering, donating, or enrolling your child in our programs! We’re looking forward to another year of friendship and smiles!

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JUNE 11, 2026 | The Jewish Home

If you want to know what the spies discovered when they went to Eretz Yisroel, you just have to ask Morah Mirel Krasner’s nursery class in the Ganger Early Childhood division of TAG and they will proudly show you

Zevi Samet Surprises and Inspires YOSS Seniors

he YOSS eighth graders experienced an unforgettable surprise this week when basketball star Zevi Samet, fresh off his epic championship victory, paid a special visit to the yeshiva. The Kiddush Hashem assembly began with remarks from the Menahel, Rabbi Zev Davidowitz, who spoke about the importance of making a kiddush Hashem in every interaction. He emphasized that a person’s actions often speak louder than words and that every Jew has the opportunity to positively represent Torah values through daily behavior. Rabbi Davidowitz then showed the students a video highlighting Zevi Samet’s remarkable journey and recent championship success. As the video concluded, the room erupted in excitement when Zevi himself walked through the door, to the shock and delight of all of the boys! Zevi captivated the talmidim as he shared his personal journey, describing the dedication, perseverance, and hard work that helped him achieve suc-

cess on and off the court. He also spoke about several of his teammates who have strengthened their commitment to Yiddishkeit, with some becoming fully Shomer Shabbos and continuing to grow in their Torah observance. A central theme of Zevi’s message was the responsibility each person has to create a kiddush Hashem. He spoke passionately about commitment, self-discipline, and keeping one’s eyes on the prize even when challenges arise. His powerful words resonated deeply with the YOSS talmidim, who listened attentively and eagerly participated in a lively question-and-answer session. They asked many thoughtful questions and gained valuable insight from his incredible experiences. The visit was a special moment of reflection and inspiration for the eighth grade graduating class. As the program concluded, the talmidim left with a renewed sense of purpose and a determination to find their own unique ways to make a personal kiddush Hashem in their daily lives.

The Jewish Home | JUNE 11, 2026

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Six13 Guard Launches “Support Six13 on 6.13” Campaign

Six13 Academy instructors attend a recent training

ou may not know this, but for more than a decade, our community has been protected by an organization that rarely seeks the limelight. Founded in 2015, Six13 Guard was established with the mission to protect shuls and the Jewish community at large. Today, the organization has more than 200 certified armed guards throughout the New York area, as well as another 200 in Massachusetts, New Jersey, and is in the process of beginning operations in Israel. More than 40 institutions in New York City and Nassau and Rockland Counties are protected by Six13 guards. Although Six13 is a licensed armed guard company, one fact sets it apart from virtually every other security pro-

Six13 guards protect a recent community event at Chelsea Piers

vider: every one of its guards is a volunteer. “Early on we realized that the best guard is one who knows his own shul,” said Shea Farkas, one of Six13’s founding members. “Many organizations outsource security to commercial firms, but those guards often don’t know the community. Our members understand the people, the environment, and the institutions they are protecting.“ As a result, Farkas and a few others started Six13 to bridge the gap between professional security and a deep understanding of the unique challenges of protecting shuls and other Jewish institutions. “Once we were off the ground and running, we quickly realized that it wasn’t enough to just do the bare mini-

mum required for state certification, we also had to offer the best possible training,” said Hudi Schiffer, one of the founding members and the head of training for Six13. That commitment led to the creation of Six13 Academy, the organization’s inhouse training program. Today, the academy is staffed by 22 volunteer instructors, many of whom are certified law enforcement instructors and experienced security professionals. The curriculum extends far beyond state requirements and includes weekly training in firearms proficiency, emergency medicine, verbal de-escalation, and advanced tactics. Maintaining that level of readiness requires a significant commitment of time and resources. “Training more than 200 guards is expensive,” said Moti Schiffer, a founding member and lead instructor. “Between training, facility costs, and equipment, the expenses add up quickly. But training is what allows us to maintain a professional standard.” Unlike commercial security companies, Six13 operates as a nonprofit organization. Participating institutions pay modest annual fees that help cover insurance and administrative expenses, but much of the cost associated with advanced training is borne by the organization itself. To help support those efforts, Six13 is launching its first public fundraising campaign, “Support Six13 on 6.13.” Funds raised through the campaign will

The founders of Six13 Guard (l-r), Moti Schiffer, Shea Farkas, and Hudi Schiffer

be used to expand training opportunities, purchase equipment, and support the continued development of Six13 Academy. The organization also hopes to eventually establish a dedicated training facility where members can train on a regular schedule using resources specifically designed for the needs of the community. This training facility will also assist in informing the public on personal and home security, as well as firearm safety. Since its founding, Six13 has seen the demand for its assistance grow, and the organization also protects dozens of community events each year, such as concerts, fundraisers, and dinners. Now, after spending more than ten years operating quietly in the background, the fundraiser represents a rare step into the public eye, but the mission remains unchanged. Every week, volunteer guards continue to stand watch at shuls, schools, and community events, to ensure that all members of the community can gather, pray, and celebrate Jewish life safely. After more than a decade of service, Six13 is now asking the community it has protected to help ensure that mission can continue for years to come. Six13 Guard Inc. is a 501(c)(3) organization and is licensed by the New York Department of State Division of Licensing. You can participate in “Support Six13 on 6.13” at https://www.rayze.it/six13/

JUNE 11, 2026 | The Jewish Home

The Jewish Home | JUNE 11, 2026

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Mr. Bass Visits HALB

r. Gerald Bass, 36-year legendary science teacher from HALB, came in to meet with this year’s Gerald Bass Award for Scien-

Mess Day at Gan Chamesh

M tific Achievement and Research award recipients, Ella Frenkel and Aiden Abrams. Congratulations!

YOSS Third Grade Debate

ess Day was called “the best day ever” by the children at Gan Chamesh. It was a day of uninhibited fun and joy, where the children had a full body experience, exploring different textures. They loved diving into mountains of foam, slathering shaving cream, digging in a sand kitchen, and engaging in exciting water play, among other activities. It was a blast for the children and helped them work as teams, problem-solve and experiment with different mediums. We wish Mess Day could be every day!

BY5T Bas Melech Play

s it better to have had something great and lost it, or to never have had it at all? This is a question that our third grade class at Yeshiva of South Shore has been hotly debating as of late! Debate is greatly encouraged in our class, as it promotes the fact that we may have differences of opinion and still be able to coexist and respect each other. Some of the boys felt that having had something great in one’s life would be worth the risk of losing it in the future. On the other hand, others felt that the pain of loss was too hard, and it would be better to not have had that great thing at all. This is only one of the many themes that has come up in our third grade class novel, The Miraculous Journey of Edward

Tulane, by Kate DiCamillo. The boys each have their own opinions about these topics, and it’s amazing to hear their unique take on things, as well as to facilitate their lively debates! Each boy is truly involved and invested in the classroom discussions. This week, we finished this beloved novel, and each boy in the class was glad to see how it turned out for Edward, the main character, in the end. We are now working on our final class essay, and each boy has chosen to write about a theme of our book or how the characters have changed throughout the novel. Looking forward to reading their essays which caps off a fantastic year of learning and growth in this third grade class!

azal tov to the Pre-1A girls at BY5T upon their beautiful performance of the Bas Melech Play! The girls practiced enthusiastically for months and were able to capture the meaning of living the life of a true Bas Melech through their words, songs, and dances. They received a special Middos Malka book as a token of all their accomplishments. We are so proud of our girls! May they continue to bring much nachas to Hashem, their families, moros, and all of Klal Yisrael.

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JUNE 11, 2026 | The Jewish Home

Yeshiva of Far Rockaway Annual Siyum Yeshiva of Far Rockaway’s held its 32nd Annual Siyum, on Tuesday, June 9, where 110 talmidim completed Mesechta Gittin

The following insurances are accepted as payment in full or partial payment to the purchase of hearing aids. OXFORD, UNITED HEALTHCARE, AETNA, THE EMPIRE PLAN, UFT Teachers, HEALTHFIRST

Photo Credit Yossi Kohn

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The Jewish Home | JUNE 11, 2026

Rabbi Antabe and his fifth grade class at Siach Yitzchok celebrated a beautiful siyum at the home of Rabbi and Mrs. Orlansky in Inwood this past week HANC EC preschoolers now have a new way to learn through play with the addition of a colorful sensory wall, designed to encourage exploration, creativity, and the development of fine motor skills.

My FAIR Ladies at TAG

MAY’s CIJE Innovation Day Success!

ast Thursday, Mesivta Ateres Yaakov students had an incredible experience at CIJE Innovation Day, where they showcased their creativity, ingenuity, and hard work alongside students from across the region. We are proud to celebrate the outstanding achievements of our talented participants: Benji Statfeld and Netanel Mann: 1st Place, Engineering for Entertainment

W and a Best Engineering Award Aaron Dworkin and Chesky Halali: 1st Place, Engineering for Transportation Yitzy Picker, Aharon Levy, and Eitan Weiss: Best Pitch Award Mazal tov to all of our participants for representing Ateres Yaakov with excellence. We are incredibly proud of their innovation, dedication, and accomplishments!

hile the country is gearing up to celebrate the 250th birthday of the United States of America, the fourth graders of Torah Academy for Girls produced an amazing U.S. States Fair. The beautiful and informative displays, that they produced together in teams, reflected the knowledge they learned about different states that they were assigned. A song written and directed by Mrs. Soshie Hirth added an opportunity for these talented fourth graders to perform together with enthusiasm and excitement. The girls also prepared a spectacular slideshow under the

direction of Mrs. Nechama Goodman in their computer classes. The fair is under the direction of Miss Miriam Elias, who dedicates it in memory of her dear father, Mr. Abe Elias, Avraham Shlomo ben Eliahuh. , a”With the active participation of the fourth grade teachers, Mrs. Berger, Miss Edelstein, Miss Elias, Mrs. Hersch, Mrs. Muller & Mrs. Pfeiffer, their assistants and the dynamic duo of Mrs. Jenny Gulkowitz, principal, and Mrs. Rivky Keilson, Assistant Principal, it’s fair to say that the event was a tremendous success.

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ore than half of the talmidim at Yeshiva Nishmas HaTorah joined the “Make Sleep Great Again” program to limit use of technology and actually made it to the finish .The discipline and motivation needed to complete the program is inspiring to all. The boys committed to putting away and locking their phones each night, as well as deleting the most common social media, a feat that has many parents and adults in awe of their strength and achievement. An amazing trip to Scottsdale, Arizona, was the reward for those who saw the program through, and what a trip it was! From takeoff at JFK until their re-

turn two and a half days later, the boys enjoyed every moment with their Rosh Yeshiva, Menahel, Rebbe and Mashgiach. This was a time to rejuvenate, daven and learn in a relaxed atmosphere with fun activities and a great feeling of accomplishment. Besides the enhanced connection to rebbeim, the kumzitzen and the learning, the boys had a packed schedule. With Topgolf, restaurants, Sedona, hiking, Cactus park, axe throwing, car racing and extreme wall climbing, they had the most incredible time, B’siyata d’shmaya. This is all on top of the most incredible resort facilities and amenities that one can ask for! The trip home was fraught with de-

lays and inconveniences, but the boys stepped up to the plate and made the most amazing kiddush Hashem! They helped provide cheer and assistance for other passengers and impressed their fel-

low travelers when the reason for the trip was explained. Parents and the hanhala could not be prouder of the way the boys behaved and presented themselves even in the most trying of situations.

JUNE 11, 2026 | The Jewish Home

Major Trip to Arizona For Yeshiva Nishmas HaTorah Talmidim

The Jewish Home | JUNE 11, 2026

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50 Years of ArtScroll Part 13: The Yad Avrohom Mishnah — The Next Stage

n the early years, ArtScroll’s work was limited to Chumash and individual books. A shocking loss led to the next stage. Avraham Glick, the young scion of a well-known family, passed away under tragic circumstances during a business trip in Europe. His bereaved father, R’ Louis Glick, was one of the New York diamond industry’s most prominent diamond dealers. Although he graduated from Torah Vodaath years earlier, he remained a lifelong talmid of the legendary R’ Shraga Feivel Mendlowitz. Mr. Glick was anxious to do something significant in memory of his son, something that would have lasting value and would benefit not just one neighborhood. That last point was something that gave unique appeal to ArtScroll’s work. Torah is the neshamah, the life-source of Klal Yisrael, and yeshivos are the “body” in which the Torah infuses life. Yet neighborhoods change and enrollments decline. And even the largest yeshivos are limited to the capacity of their classrooms and dormitories. By contrast, printed Torah volumes are not confined by time and space. Sefarim written in small towns gen-

erations ago are still widely studied today across the globe. Could Avraham Glick be memorialized with something that would have such broad and lasting appeal in a way that would bring Torah in its majesty and authenticity to people whose primary language was English? Someone suggested that Mr. Glick fund an English translation and commentary of the Mishnah and that the young and budding ArtScroll was the best candidate to do it. R’ Zlotowitz and R’ Scherman met with Mr. Glick, and the chemistry worked. There was a general understanding, but before a final handshake and contract could be finalized, there was a problem that was a potential dealbreaker. Mr. Glick went to Monsey to consult Rav Yaakov Kamenetsky, zt”l, who, though formally retired as Rosh Yeshivah of Torah Vodaath, was still the primary address for daas Torah and sound advice for many of the yeshivah’s alumni. The question was, “If I commit myself to dedicate the ArtScroll Mishnah, I might have to reduce my contributions to yeshivos. Is it the right thing to do?” By that time, R’ Yaakov had become familiar with the work

and reliability of ArtScroll. He urged Mr. Glick to undertake the project and assured him that in the unparalleled merit of being marbitz Torah to such a broad public, his support of yeshivos would not be diminished at all. And so, the “Yad Avraham Mishnah Series” was born. Though the commentary begins with the Bartenura — the “Rashi” of Mishnah commentators — the treatment features an original anthology of comments and explanations from classic sources. Clear, authoritative and comprehensive, it was unprecedented in any language. R’ Hersh Goldwurm, already on staff, reviewed, wrote, and was on call to help other writers and editors and was the key person to guarantee the quality and accuracy of the work. R’ Scherman edited the first several volumes until the staff could be expanded. It was not easy to find qualified personnel, but one candidate was uniquely successful and remains one of our key people to this day. R’ Yehezkel Danziger, a talmid of Mir-Yerushalayim and Beis Medrash Govoha, was recruited to write for the project and became R’ Hershel’s primary protégé

Mr. Louis Glick

and colleague. After R’ Goldwurm’s untimely passing, R’ Yehezkel became one of our primary editors and the one who trained a generation of writers. The 44-volume Yad Avraham Mishnah is still widely popular. Mr. Glick’s hope has been realized and R’ Yaakov’s assurance has been vindicated. And Klal Yisrael is the beneficiary. UP NEXT: First of the History Series: History of the Jewish People

YCQ Wildcats Girls Volleyball Team Wins Inaugural League Championship

n a thrilling display of teamwork, skill, and sheer determination, the Yeshiva of Central Queens (YCQ) Girls Volleyball team cemented their place in the history books by capturing the league’s inaugural championship title. Facing off against the formidable team from North Shore, YCQ delivered a spectacular performance to claim the crown and bring the championship trophy home. The championship match was a masterclass in grit. From the opening serve, both teams traded powerful spikes and spectacular digs, but it was YCQ’s flawless communication and relentless hustle that ultimately broke North Shore’s defense, including Sigalit Galibov’s eight point streak while serving. This inaugural season brought unique pressures, but the YCQ athletes

rose to the challenge under the expert guidance of parent volunteer coach Eddie Khodzhiyev. Coach Khodzhiyev’s dedication, strategic focus, and emphasis on unity transformed the roster into a dominant, cohesive force on the court. The historic, championship-winning YCQ roster included Abigail Gilkarov, Abigail Inoyatov, Anael Rachmanov, Eliora Kikirova, Hannah Kaykov, Kira Hoffman, Lauren Rakhminov, Leah Badalov, Leah Davydov, Liana Aminov, Liora Kalantarov, Loren Moradov, Natalia Matatov, Sigalit Galibov, and Talya Khodzhiyev. The victory came on the heels of an incredibly successful spring season for YCQ which included both the boys and girls soccer teams reaching their respective championships. Thank you to our students for taking

initiative and requesting the creation of a league, as well as other founding members of the league, QHA, YHT, and NSHA, and Commissioner Rhine for

their efforts. YCQ is looking forward to welcoming other teams into the league for next season. Let’s go Wildcats!

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t was an event that was both joyful and bittersweet: on Monday, June 8, the class of 2026 officially graduated from the Yeshiva University High School for Girls (Central) and joined the ranks of Wildcat alumnae. But before graduation, the entire grade was treated to one final grade-wide journey: a fun-filled trip to South Jersey, where Wildcats enjoyed pedal boats in Asbury Park, time spent at Jenkinson’s Boardwalk Amusement Park, and shopping at the Jersey Shore Premium Outlets before spending one last Shabbos together. For the school’s 74th annual commencement on the 8th, the YUHSG community gathered at a new location, the Queensborough Performing Arts Center, to celebrate with this year’s graduates. YUHSG faculty mark these occasions as a time to honor the work and growth these students have accomplished over the past four years. “As our students walk across the stage to receive their diplomas, I see the story of their Central journey unfold, a transformation of ninth graders into confident, knowledgeable, and compassionate young women ready to share their unique gifts with the world,” said YUHSG Principal, Mrs. Aliza Gewirtz. “This moment is the ultimate nachas and a beautiful reflection of the one-of-a-kind Central experience that shapes each student’s path.” Ms. Leah Moskovich, for whom this year’s commencement ceremony will be her last as Associate Principal, agreed. “We are so beyond proud of this year’s graduating Class of 2026, and I am extremely humbled to be graduating Central with them,” she said. Commencement began with Tehillim from Central’s Mashgiach Ruchani, Rabbi Joshua Goller, followed by an address to the class from Ms. Moskovich and a presentation of the Klein Memorial Founders Award Salutatorians for Excellence in Jewish and General Studies to recipients Kayla Etra and Aliyah Kahn. Next, Mrs. Gewirtz presented the Stephen Klein Memorial Founders Award Valedictorian for Excellence in Jewish and General Studies to Sarah Leah Sullivan, who gave the class’s valedictory address before the granting of further awards. This year’s Keter Shem Tov Award was shared by Eliana Goldman and Noa Shuval, while

the Malka Fishhaut Memorial Award for Study in Israel was given to Malka Lavner and Shira Massihesraelian for their overall excellence in Judaic Studies. Yeshiva University High School’s Leadership and Middot Award went to Meira Levine, while YU’s Torah u’Madda Award was given to Tamar Frankel. Lastly, the Leah Lefkowitz Humanitarian Chesed Award was shared by Eliana Gomberg and Shalhevet Koenigsberg. After crossing the stage to receive diplomas, the class was presented by their Senior Grade Dean, Director of Israel and Religious Guidance and Judaic Studies faculty member, Mrs. Yael Axelrod. “I could not be more proud of the Central graduating class of 2026,” Mrs. Axelrod said. “They are an exceptional group of talented, genuine, energetic, and passionate young ladies, and it was my greatest privilege to have been their grade dean for the past two years. I wish them each the biggest mazel tov upon their graduation!” YUHSG would like to wish each and every graduate heartfelt congratulations. We are so proud of who you have become and everything you have accomplished over the past four years. May your hard work and your integrity carry you forward into a life of joy, service, and unending learning.

JUNE 11, 2026 | The Jewish Home

YUHSG Celebrates Class of 2026 with 74th Annual Commencement Ceremony

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The Jewish Home | JUNE 11, 2026

The Middle School boys and girls at HALB went on their various end of year trips. They all had a great time!

HAFTR Hosts Names, Not Numbers Programs

n June 4, HAFTR Middle School hosted an unforgettable and deeply moving Names, Not Numbers® evening—an event that marked the culmination of a year-long journey in Holocaust education, memory, and responsibility. Now in its 22nd year, this program brings together students from both HAFTR and Lawrence Middle School in a powerful partnership rooted in shared purpose and humanity. Throughout the year, eighth grade students from both schools collaborated, learning the skills of historical research, interviewing, and filmmaking. But far more meaningful than any technical skill was the rare and sacred opportunity they had: to sit face-to-face with Holocaust survivors, to listen to their stories of unimaginable loss, strength, and faith, and to become the next generation of memory-keepers. The students understood that as the number of survivors dwindles, their responsibility grows—this may be the last generation to hear these stories firsthand. This year, the students had the opportunity to interview Mr. Ernie Brod, Mrs. Leah Goldberg, Mrs. Marion Lazan, Mrs. Anna Rosner, Mrs. Zahava Stessel, and Mrs. Paula Schallamach. Each survivor’s story is unique and powerful,

allowing the students to understand the many different facets of this dark page of history. The evening began with remarks from Dr. Yali Werzberger, Associate Principal of HAFTR Middle School, Dr. Joshua Gold, HAFTR K-8 Principal, as well as Ms. Karen Silver, faculty coordinator from Lawrence Middle School, who each expressed the value of the project to not only their students but to the world at large. They were then followed by student reflections from both schools that spoke of transformation, perspective, and deep personal growth while working on the project. Mrs. Paula Schallamach, a Holocaust survivor and a participant of the program this year, addressed the audience and expressed the importance of Holocaust education and the vital role our students now play in shaping Holocaust remembrance. The centerpiece of the event was the premiere of a documentary entirely created by the students. With sensitivity and care, they shared survivors’ stories— from their lives before the war, to their experiences during the Holocaust, and their journeys of resilience and rebuilding. The film was more than a project; it was a sacred tribute, leaving the audi-

ence visibly moved and inspired. After the film, closing remarks were made by Ms. Ivy Adwar, a teacher at Lawrence Middle School, who expressed her deep appreciation for participating in such a critical yet meaningful endeavor. Lastly, Mrs. Rinat Balsam, HAFTR’s project coordinator and English teacher, thanked the survivors with gifts while students went up to greet and extend their gratitude to them and their families. Names, Not Numbers® is not just about preserving history—it is about forging identity. At HAFTR, we strive to instill in our students a strong sense of Jewish pride, moral courage, and responsibility to speak out against injustice. In partnership with Lawrence Middle School, we are proud to be part of this

meaningful and enduring effort. We thank the survivors for their bravery, the educators, Mrs. Rinat Balsam, Ms. Rebecca Zweibon, and Ms. Ivy Adwar, for their leadership, and the students for honoring the past with heart, humility, and hope. May the lessons learned live on through them, and may we all continue to be guardians of memory and messengers of light. The Names, Not Numbers® Program is generously supported by a prominent national foundation, with Assistance from the Conference on Jewish Material Claims Against Germany; Supported by the German Federal Ministry of Finance and the Foundation Remembrance, Responsibility and Future.

JUNE 11, 2026 | The Jewish Home

The Jewish Home | JUNE 11, 2026

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5TLL Playoff Recap

he 5TLL post-season by FM Home Loans arrived, and with it came everything you could ask for—comebacks, walk-offs, upsets, grand slams, defensive gems, and a championship celebration. As teams fought to keep their seasons alive, some rose to the occasion while others saw incredible seasons come to an end. 1st Grade Baseball Quarterfinals Myda Capital advanced to the semifinals, ending the season for Tikva Fire. The difference was Yaakov Rosenberg, who was outstanding defensively. Time after time, he made key plays in the field, shutting down rallies and helping his team move on. Mr. Softee punched its ticket to the semifinals as well, thanks in large part to Harry Wilheim, who put on a defensive masterclass. Harry seemed to be everywhere, making several SportsCenter-worthy stops and helping preserve the victory. 2nd Grade Baseball Quarterfinals FIFO 3PL delivered one of the most dramatic playoff moments of the season. Facing an 8-run deficit, it looked like their season might be coming to an end. Instead, every player contributed, chipping away inning after inning before completing an incredible comeback and winning on a thrilling walk-off. Meanwhile, SD Shades kept their perfect season alive behind the bat of Aharon Waldman, who crushed a huge 3-run homer to help secure the victory and advance. 3rd Grade Baseball Quarterfinals

Newman Dental pulled off a big upset, defeating Nate Builders 10–8. With the game hanging in the balance, Jonathan Schickman came through with a clutch RBI double that helped swing momentum and secure the win. BATTR advanced past 5 Towns Restoration, with Dovid Levitin showcasing his glove throughout the game. Dovid made several key defensive plays that helped preserve the lead and send his team into the next round. 4th Grade Baseball Quarterfinals Joseph Bell put together one of the most dominant offensive performances of the postseason so far, driving in 8 RBIs, including a towering grand slam. In another tightly contested matchup, Altbanq edged Extreme Vent Cleaning 3–2. Defense ruled the day, and Asher Newman was at the center of it all, playing outstanding shortstop and helping his team survive and advance. 5th Grade Baseball Quarterfinals Maidenbaum advanced past The Vision Board, 10–7. Shaya Ribowsky did absolutely everything. He blasted a grand slam, came through with key hits throughout the game, and then took the mound to close things out and secure the win. BlueBird Insurance advanced past Twillory, thanks in large part to Dovi Kohn. Despite batting near the bottom of the lineup all season without complaint, Dovi delivered when it mattered most, knocking in 2 huge runs to help keep his team’s playoff run alive. 6th Grade Baseball – Regular

Season Finale As the regular season wrapped up, BATTR picked up its first victory of the year. Yaakov Siegel starred on both sides of the ball, helping his team build momentum heading into the postseason. 7th/8th Grade Championship Twillory are the 7th/8th Grade Champions! In a tightly contested championship game against Smash House, Twillory found a way to come through when it mattered most. With the tying run threatening late, Gavriel Levine shut the door in the final inning, preserving the lead and securing the championship. Credit goes to Smash House as well, who put together an excellent postseason run and battled until the very last out. Men’s A League Quarterfinals

Town Appliance advanced once again, defeating Maidenbaum behind the familiar duo of Shelby Rosenberg (26 points) and Noah Aaron (19 points). The two stars did what they do best, carrying the offense and sending Town Appliance into the semifinals—where a massive showdown with Emporio awaits. Speaking of Emporio, the defending champions and top seed survived their quarterfinal matchup against Smash House. The dynamic scoring tandem of Yitzy Wieder and Yoni Oratz once again proved too much to handle, powering Emporio into the next round. Their reward? A semifinal clash against what many are calling the most dangerous 4-seed the league has ever seen: Town Appliance.

How YHT Served Up a New Volleyball League By Sophia Lebovich

hen I was in eighth grade, I noticed that there wasn’t a volleyball league for girls in our area. Since so many of us loved playing volleyball at recess and some of us even took volleyball classes together, I thought there would be a lot of interest in starting one. I was right! To get the league started, I reached out to students from different schools to see if they would be interested. If they were, I emailed their athletic directors and explained that we wanted to create a league and needed at least four teams. The process was not always easy. Instead of giving up, I told myself that I had to make it happen, and I did!

Throughout the process, I kept Mr. Miller updated about which schools were interested and which were not. I also shared contact information for the athletic directors so we could continue building the league together. One of the most exciting parts was seeing how supportive people were. Parents, teachers, and students from different schools and communities encouraged me every step of the way. Their enthusiasm made me believe that this league could really become a reality. Hearing that the league was officially starting was a full-circle moment. As an 8th grader in my final year at YHT, it felt amazing to know that something I worked so hard on was becoming a reality. Even after I graduate, a small part of

me will always remain at YHT because I helped create something that future students will enjoy. Being part of the team this year was so much fun. I was proud to see all of the hard work pay off. The league was a success, and HANC has already joined for next year. It makes me happy to know

that even more students will have the opportunity to play this exciting sport. Who knows? Maybe one day I’ll come back to YHT as an assistant volleyball coach, just like Sara Schilowitz, and tell the next generation of players how it all started!

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JUNE 11, 2026 | The Jewish Home

Lev Chana Kindergarten graduations have begun! Mazal tov!

HAFTR Debate Team is Undefeated

By Natalie Touaf

s a member of the HAFTR Debate Team, I have had the privilege of experiencing one of the best teams in HAFTR history. Through countless hours of preparation, research, practice rounds, and teamwork, our team has achieved something truly amazing. We remained undefeated throughout the entire season and earned the title of Best School at all four debate meets. Debate is much more than standing behind a podium and presenting an argument. As a debater for the past two years, I can tell you that every tournament requires you to think critically, analyze complex issues, make sure you can think under pressure, and maintain calm when being questioned. Throughout the debate season, our team took these challenges and continued to push ourselves to improve. What made this year especially memorable was the dedication shown by every member of the team. From our mentoring program to our veteran debaters sharing jokes from over the years. We have not only grown as stronger indi-

vidual debaters but stronger Jews from these wonderful experiences. Experiences that wouldn’t be possible without our wonderful coach, Ms. Wolfson. At every meet, HAFTR debaters make sure to get all five courtesy points, and make sure to reflect the middot that HAFTR portrays. Because of this, we consistently earned top placements and got the Best School award at all four competitions. This achievement could not have been possible without the effort of the whole team. Beyond the trophies and awards, this season has taught me valuable lessons about perseverance, and proper researching methods. As a team we learned how to defend our ideas thoughtfully, listen respectfully to different perspectives, and grow from every round we participated in. Our team is like no other because of our team values and our team bond. Each and every team member couldn’t have grown as much as we did, without the amazing help of our mentor and teacher. Being a part of this family has made me grow as a person, Jew, and made me appreciate the art of debating.

Layout Space Planning Custom Design

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The Jewish Home | JUNE 11, 2026

Students from the Center for Education enjoyed a fun Science Fair at The Special Children’s Center this week, where they explored new ideas through hands-on activities and booths

Local Teens Launch “Every Kid Plays”

wo local teenagers are proving that age is no barrier to making a difference in the community. Sixteen-year-old Jonah Gober and fifteen-year-old Liam Scheer, both students at HAFTR, recently launched Every Kid Plays, an initiative dedicated to helping children gain access to the sports equipment they need to participate in athletics. The organization’s mission is simple: collect new and gently used sports equipment from families who no longer need it and redistribute it to children who may not otherwise have the resources to play. “We wanted to create a way for kids to help other kids,” said the founders. “Many families have sports equipment sitting unused in their homes, while other children are unable to participate be-

cause they don’t have the gear they need. We saw an opportunity to connect those two groups.” On Sunday, June 7, Every Kid Plays held its first sports equipment drive in Woodmere. Throughout the morning, community members dropped off baseball gloves, bats, hockey sticks, soccer equipment, basketballs, tennis rackets, and other athletic gear to support the cause. The drive marked an important milestone for the young organization and demonstrated the generosity of the Five Towns community. Donations collected during the event will be distributed to children and families in need, helping remove financial barriers that can prevent young athletes from participating in sports. For Gober and Scheer, the project is

about more than collecting equipment. They hope to promote inclusion, encourage youth participation in sports, and give every child the opportunity to experience the lessons athletics can teach— teamwork, confidence, discipline, and perseverance. As Every Kid Plays continues to grow, the founders plan to organize additional equipment drives, partner with local schools and sports organizations, and expand their reach to help even more children. Their message is straightforward: no child should have to sit on the sidelines because they lack the equipment to play. For more information about donating equipment, volunteering, or supporting the organization, visit Every Kid Plays at https://everykidplaysny.lovable.app/.

SKA Students Visit Touro Campus

o often, students graduate high school, spend a gap year in Israel and come to college unprepared to choose a career path. Many have simply never thought about where their strengths and skills lie and how those would align with a particular profession. They’ve also not had much real-world exposure to specific careers and don’t have the knowledge of what’s involved in the academic preparation or the practical day-to-day role. To address this gap in knowledge and help local SKA students get a taste of a few popular health care careers, Touro University welcomed a group of 50 students to the Touro College of Osteopathic

Medicine (TouroCOM) campus. It was a day of observation, rolling up their sleeves and interacting with students and faculty at TouroCOM, Touro College of Pharmacy and Touro’s sonography program. “The students were able to see real-life applications of their year of study through the anatomy lab, sonography lab, and pharmacy workshop. Learning about the different programs that Touro offers, as well as hearing from current students, allowed them a realistic glimpse of different fields and options for themselves,” said Dr. Chana Glatt, Science Department Chair at SKA. Over the course of the day, students

enjoyed three interactive sessions, in the human donor anatomy lab, sonography simulator lab and with pharmacy students and faculty learning how to fill prescriptions. “I loved how interactive the activities were!” said Leora Ajoku, who appreciated the hands-on opportunities in the labs. “It was a once-in-a-lifetime experience to have a real way for our learning to come to fruition,” said Yardena Lifstitz. To learn more about healthcare careers at Touro, visit www.touro.edu/poweryourpath.

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HALB second grade made a beautiful siyum on Parshas Lech Lecha with Rabbi Lieberman. They learned together, sang together, and enjoyed delicious food sponsored by MG Craft Kitchen.

Seniors Learn the Art of Improv

n June 2, the incredible Chaia Frishman led an unforgettable improv session with the Chabad of the Five Towns Smile on Seniors group. There is nothing quite like the power of laughter, creativity, and community connection to brighten up the day. From quick-witted jokes to endless smiles, our seniors proved that joy has no age limit! Check out more of our community in action here: https://lifeimproved.lovable.app/in-action Do you know a senior that would enjoy the Smile on Seniors program? Invite them to join us weekly on Tuesday, 11:00 AM, at the Levi Yitzchak Library.

atzalah visited Lev Chana, showing each class the inside of their truck and how they help save people’s lives every day.

Celebrating Milestones at Cheder Menachem

heder Menachem of Long Island’s Pre-1A Siddur Party and Grade 1 Chumash Party were beautiful and memorable celebrations! The students sang special songs with excitement and joy as they marked these important milestones in their learning. Parents joined in the celebrations, sharing in their children’s accomplishments and enthusiasm.

The Pre-1A talmidim celebrated their readiness to begin davening from a siddur, while the Grade 1 talmidim celebrated their preparation to begin learning Chumash inside. Everyone enjoyed a delicious cake and a wonderful atmosphere of simcha and pride. We wish all our students much hatzlachah as they continue to grow in their Torah learning and avodas Hashem.

At HALB, the second grade had a Community Helper fair where different community helpers came to speak to them about their jobs.

JUNE 11, 2026 | The Jewish Home

Community Helpers

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JUNE 11, 2026 | The Jewish Home

The Jewish Home | JUNE 11, 2026

Around the Community

Mercaz Showcases America at Annual State Fair

ifth grade students at Plainview’s Mercaz Academy unveiled their annual State Fair last month, showcasing months of research, multimedia creativity, and hands-on learning about America’s most iconic destinations, unique traditions, and remarkable people. Each student became an expert on a single state, researching its geography, history, climate, famous figures, and unusual facts (for example, it’s illegal for an elephant to plow a field in Oklahoma), then transforming their research into

colorful displays, student-written travel books and brochures, and interactive exhibits that drew visitors from booth to booth. The project extended well beyond social studies into technology, art and engineering. Each booth featured a minifloat which truly highlighted the fifth graders’ creativity. Projects included a LEGO recreation of Utah’s famous arch, a 3D-printed model of Hawaii’s islands, clay peaches representing Georgia, and Colorado’s Rocky Mountains crafted from cardboard and cotton.

Jewish learning was also woven throughout the project, with students researching notable Jewish figures connected to their states and identifying kosher restaurants, synagogues, and other resources for Jewish travelers. The Fair was a school-wide sensation, with students in grades one through six visiting throughout the day and learning about the states through scavenger hunts and trivia games. Families attended an evening showcase featuring a mini-float parade and student presentations. “The students did a great job this

year. I’m really proud of them,” said fifth grade teacher Mrs. Katherine Papaccioli.

Stories that Inspire Greatness By Rabbi Binyomin Pruzansky The Prize of a Lifetime ears ago, it was the final night of an incredible summer in Camp Munk, and the atmosphere was electric. The campers were gathered in great anticipation to see who would win their division’s most coveted prize: a pair of professional walkie-talkies. In those days, there was no prize more desired. For young Eytan, who was only eight years old and spending his first summer in camp, this was the moment he had been working toward with every ounce of his energy. His learning rebbi, R’ Weiss, had created a rigorous program, announcing a contest for anyone who could master a vast amount of yedios klaliyos, general Torah knowledge. Eytan had poured himself into the task. He had memorized the names of all twenty-four Sifrei Tanach and the titles of all sixty-three masechtos

of Mishnayos. He was certain the grand prize was his. When R’ Weiss took the microphone, the room went silent. To Eytan’s utter devastation, the rebbi called out a different boy’s name. As Eytan sat in his seat, his hands hiding his tear-filled eyes, he felt a warm arm around his shoulder. R’ Weiss sat down beside him. “I know how disappointed you are,” the rebbi said with great tenderness. “Although the competition was based on Torah knowledge, the grand prize would only be awarded to a student who also displayed exemplary middos tovos, as befits a true ben Torah. But you could have done a little better with your middos. I’m sorry I couldn’t give you the prize, but I needed you to understand a fundamental truth: Torah is not just about what you know; it is about having sterling middos and derech eretz. One day, you will appreciate your potential for greatness, and perhaps you will even

thank me for this.” The lesson was searing, but it stayed with him. Eytan eventually grew up, got married, and became a dedicated yungerman who spent his days and nights immersed in Torah. Twenty years had passed since those camp days. While spending a Shabbos in Los Angeles for a family simchah, Eytan went to daven Shacharis on Sunday morning. He found himself standing next to a distinguished-looking man who seemed familiar. Eytan glanced at the man’s tallis bag and froze. The name stitched there was: R’ Weiss — his learning rebbi from camp. After davening, he approached his former rebbi. “Are you the R’ Weiss who was a learning rebbi in Camp Munk all those years ago?” he asked. The rebbi didn’t recognize him at first, so Eytan shared the story of that last night in camp. “R’ Weiss,” Eytan said with profound sincerity, “I want to express my hakaras hatov to you. You did exactly the right thing. You showed me that you believed in my potential for something higher than just a good memory, and I want you to know that I forgive you one hundred percent. That lesson stayed with me and helped me in a huge way throughout my life.” Fast forward to this past summer — forty-six years after that night in camp. R’ Eytan Feiner, now the rav of the White Shul in Far Rockaway, was asked to record a dvar Torah for an audience of Camp Munk alumni in honor of Shabbos Chazon. While speaking about the value of derech eretz and ahavas Yisrael, he related the story of his youth and the walkie-talkies. The story spread far and wide among the alumni.

Not long afterward, an unexpected package arrived at the Feiner home. It was the middle of the summer, and R’ Feiner had just come in from the mountains for the day when he noticed a box from Amazon. He hadn’t ordered anything, nor had his wife. He opened the box and was amazed to see a set of walkie-talkies inside. Attached was a note from his old rebbi, R’ Weiss. The note read: “I can attest that your middos are now as outstanding as your Torah knowledge. Now, you truly deserve this prize.” Today, those walkie-talkies sit on a shelf in R’ Eytan Feiner’s study — not as a toy, but as a testament to a life-changing lesson. They are waiting for the day he can pass them on to a talmid who understands that the crown of a good name, through middos tovos and derech eretz, is the greatest prize a person can ever acquire. Reprinted from Stories that Inspire Greatness by Rabbi Binyomin Pruzansky, with permission from the copyright holder, ArtScroll Mesorah Publications.

JUNE 11, 2026 | The Jewish Home

The Jewish Home | JUNE 11, 2026

Voice N

tes

Our Voice in Albany is On the Ballot On June 23, Far Rockaway has a choice to make — and more is riding on it than most of us realize By Richard Altabe

or nearly four decades, our community has enjoyed something rare in New York politics: a representative in Albany who knew us, returned our calls, and showed up when it mattered. From Audrey Pheffer to Phil Goldfeder to Stacey Pheffer Amato, the 23rd Assembly District has been held by people who understood that Far Rockaway’s families — our shuls, our mosdos, our small businesses, our seniors — are not an afterthought but a constituency that deserves a seat at the table. That continuity is not an accident. It was built over years of relationships, trust, and hard work. And it can be lost in a single low-turnout primary. That is exactly what is at stake this month. With Assemblywoman Pheffer Amato retiring, the seat is open. The decades of access and goodwill our community has carefully earned do not automatically transfer to whoever happens to win. They transfer only if we elect someone who already knows us, already works for us, and already commands the respect of the partners we need in government. That person is Pesach Osina. Pesach is not a newcomer asking us to take a chance on him. He is one of us. A longtime Far Rockaway resident and a board member of the Jewish Community Council of the Rockaway Peninsula, he has spent the better part of two decades inside government — in the office of the New York City Comptroller, in the City Council Speaker’s office as a senior community liaison, and in the Assembly itself. That is not a résumé line. It is a map of exactly where the levers are and how to pull them. When a family cannot navigate a state agency, when a mossad needs help accessing a program it is entitled to, when a senior is lost in the bureaucracy — Pesach is the person who already knows which door to knock on and whose name to mention. That is the difference between

With local community leaders

a representative who makes speeches and one who delivers results. We saw who Pesach is when it counted most. When Superstorm Sandy devastated our peninsula, he was on the ground organizing relief. When COVID-19 shut down the world and our neighbors were

showed up. He always has. Just as important — and this is something our community should take real pride in — Pesach has earned the respect and trust of our neighbors beyond the Orthodox world. His endorsements tell the story. State Senator James

Pesach is the person who already knows which door to knock on and whose name to mention.

frightened and isolated, he was again on the front lines, getting people what they needed. You learn everything you need to know about a public servant by watching what they do in a crisis, when there are no cameras and no campaign. Pesach

Sanders Jr., Assemblyman Khaleel Anderson, and Councilwoman Selvena Brooks-Powers, the leading African American elected officials of our region, have all stood up for Pesach. So has the Queens County Democratic Party, the

SEIU 32BJ, and the carpenters’ union. These leaders do not endorse lightly, and they do not endorse someone who serves only one community. They endorse Pesach because they have watched him work across every neighborhood of this district and because they trust him to represent all of it. A leader who is respected across the aisle and across communities is a leader who can actually get things done in Albany — and who protects us precisely because he is never seen as a candidate for only one group. This is what good representation looks like: not loud, not divisive, but effective, relational, and rooted. It is what we have been fortunate to have for forty years, and it is what we are at risk of losing. Primaries are decided by who shows up. Turnout in a June primary is small, which means every single vote from our community carries enormous weight. If we stay home, we forfeit our voice. If we vote, we keep it. It is that simple. So I am asking you — as a neighbor who has spent a lifetime in this community — to make a plan to vote early from this Sunday, June 14 - Sunday, June 21 ( at the Sorrentino Center on Cornaga Ave) or on primary day, Tuesday, June 23 at your regular polling site, and to bring your family and friends with you. Forty years of hard-won representation should not slip away in an off-year primary because we assumed someone else would carry it. Vote for Pesach Osina. Keep our voice in Albany strong.

Richard Altabe is the founder of the Far Rockaway Jewish Alliance and a longtime Far Rockaway resident and educator who helped lead the community’s Hurricane Sandy relief efforts.

JUNE 11, 2026 | The Jewish Home

The Jewish Home | JUNE 11, 2026

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TJH

Centerfold

Ticker Tape Parade Trivia Yes, I am that confident! 1. What is the name of the famous New York City route used for ticker-tape parades? a. Canyon of Heroes b. Victory Boulevard c. Liberty Lane d. Heroes Highway 2. The largest ticker-tape parade ever in New York City was attended by approximately 7 million people. What was the parade in honor of? a. General Douglas MacArthur, 1951 b. Mets World Series, 1969 c. Yankees, 1996 d. Giants, 2008 3. How much paper is typically dropped during a large New York ticker-tape parade? a. Up to 5 tons b. Up to 20 tons c. Up to 50 tons d. Up to 500 tons 4. How did the ticker-tape parade tradition start? a. In 1886, office workers watching a parade spontaneously tossed ticker tape (a narrow strip of paper used by stock-market machines) from windows b. City officials distributed paper ribbons to spectators during the opening of the Brooklyn Bridge

c. John Glenn d. Amelia Earhart

c. Newspaper boys threw unsold papers into the air after a World Series victory d. A department store accidentally released thousands of paper receipts during a grand opening 5. Which event was honored with New York City’s very first tickertape parade in 1886? a. The Brooklyn Dodgers won the World Series b. The return of Theodore Roosevelt from Cuba c. Charles Lindbergh’s transatlantic flight d. The unveiling of the Statue of Liberty 6. As of 2025, approximately how many ticker-tape parades had New York City held in its history? a. 73 b. 156 c. 209 d. 247 7. Which one of these people didn’t receive his own ticker-tape parade? a. Muhammad Ali b. Albert Einstein

8. What permanent tribute does New York City give to every ticker-tape parade? a. A black granite strip on the sidewalk in Lower Manhattan b. A plaque on the entranceway in City Hall c. A square in Penn Station, lower level d. A key to the city Answers: 1-A 2-A 3-C 4-A 5-D 6-C 7-B 8-A Wisdom Key: 5-8 correct: You deserve a granite plaque in the Canyon of Heroes and a key to New York City. 2-4 correct: You get some tickertape (unlike in shul when the guy handing out the aufruf bags always ignores you. You should not have stolen the marshmallow six years ago. Everyone knows you are an eater, not a thrower). 0-1 correct: Your brain has a little too much ticker-tape flying around in it.

Riddle Me This It is your task to determine how high you can drop a golf ball without it breaking. There is a 100-story building, and you must determine which is the high-

You bring binoculars to watch a giant balloon from 20 feet away.

est floor you can drop a ball from without breaking it.

You refer to your curbside folding chair as “premium seating.”

both of them break before you determine the answer,

You tell anybody that will listen, “Back in my day, the ticker-tape was real.”

break, you can reuse it without worrying about it be-

have to make to determine the answer?

you can determine the exact breaking point with at it again from the 39th (14+13+12) floor. If it breaks,

You know the difference between a marching band, a drum corps, and a marching band that’s trying too hard.

of droppings that you will

most 11 more droppings.

You complain that the confetti density isn’t what it used to be.

balls from to minimize the number

Keep repeating this process, always going up one

You bring a cooler, snacks, sunscreen, a charger, two jackets, and a backup chair “just in case.”

What is the order of floors that you should drop the

less floor than the last, dropping until the first ball

You consider catching candy thrown from a float an athletic achievement.

ing weakened. Both balls are the same strength.

breaks. By the eleventh dropping of the first ball, if

You insist on explaining to strangers which parade was better in 1997.

then you have failed at your task. If a ball doesn’t

you get that far, you will have reached the 99th floor.

You spend more time planning your paradeviewing strategy than your vacation.

You have only two golf balls to use as test objects. If

You treat losing your spot on the curb like a real-estate dispute.

If the first ball survives the 27-floor drop, then drop

You say, “This float was much better before they redesigned it.”

can determine the exact breaking point with at most If the first ball survives the 14-floor drop, then drop time. starting at the bottom and going up one floor at a with the other ball in at most 13 more droppings, breaks, you can determine the exact breaking point First drop the first ball from the 14th floor. If it a maximum of 14 drops. Here’s how to do it: Answer: You can determine the breaking point with

You scout the route the night before like you’re preparing for a military operation.

it again from the 27th (14+13) floor. If it breaks, you

You secretly believe that if you attended a tickertape parade, the honoree would point at you and say, “I couldn’t have done it without that guy.”

12 more droppings.

You have shouted, “HERE COMES THE GOOD FLOAT!” with complete sincerity.

JUNE 11, 2026 | The Jewish Home

15 Signs You’re Taking a Parade Way Too Seriously

The Jewish Home | JUNE 11, 2026

Torah Thought

Parshas Shlach By Rabbi Berel Wein z”l

oshe had a good idea to encourage the Jewish people to appreciate the gift being granted to them in possessing the Land of Israel. With the most positive of intentions, he commissions twelve leaders of Israel, in whom he undoubtedly had unquestioned trust in their piety and wisdom. Moshe expects them to return with an enthusiastic assessment of the Land of Israel.

Instead, they return with an even-handed, cold-blooded report about the land and its inhabitants. The negative parts of their report somehow overwhelm the positive statements that they uttered. They eventually back up their report with personal agendas, woeful predictions, and demagogic pronouncements. And Moshe is powerless to tell the people to reject the negative report. A mood of wild

depression overwhelms Israel, and the great march to the promised land is ended permanently for that generation. There was always a predisposition among that generation to prefer to return to Egyptian servitude rather than to forge a new society in a new land and create their own independent state. The uncomfortable but known past always has strong attraction and requires no special bravery or courage. However, the unknown future, no matter how great its possibilities, is always an intimidating sight. This attitude is present in all Jewish and human generations and cer-

this issue, each in their own way. But the basic underlying assessment of the issue is that there is a hesitation if not even a fear of Jewish independence and self-government among the Jewish people. This is certainly reflected throughout large sections of the Jewish world today. This attitude is always cloaked in theological niceties and pious nostrums as well as an unfounded belief in the Western humanitarian values of much of Europe and America. But the harsh truth is that most Jews find it easier and more comfortable to live under foreign rule than to have to build

The uncomfortable but known past always has strong attraction and requires no special bravery or courage.

tainly was not limited to the generation of the Jews in the desert of Sinai. It is the unknown future that always destabilizes present wisdom and judgment. Moshe’s assurances of G-dly support for Israel fall on unhearing ears. The question arises as to why Moshe, who was able to convince Israel to leave Egypt, march through the desert, accept the yoke of the Torah, reject the Golden Calf, build the Mishkan, etc., was unable to convince them of the importance of the Land of Israel to their physical and spiritual development. Over the centuries, the great commentators to the Torah have dealt with

their own self-governing society and nation. The exile mentality of the Jewish people, formed already in Egyptian bondage over three millennia ago, remains part of our DNA even today. The Jewish State is spoken of as a place of refuge and escape for persecuted Jews. But a Jewish State is really much more than that. It is a challenge and a work in progress. It should not be viewed as merely a haven for the helpless but rather as a country that must eventually fulfill its role as a light unto the rest of humankind. Again, the Torah of Moshe must convince us of our true role in the world. Shabbat shalom.

JUNE 11, 2026 | The Jewish Home

The Jewish Home | JUNE 11, 2026

From the Fire Parshas Shlach

The Joy of Torah and Eretz Yisroel By Rav Moshe Weinberger Adapted for publication by Binyomin Wolf

his is the parsha of Eretz Yisroel. The commentators explain a variety of reasons why Moshe consented to send the spies to Eretz Yisroel. There was no doubt that Hashem would fulfill his promise to Avraham, Yitzchak, and Yaakov to give their descendants the land. In addition, there was no doubt that the land was good, a land “flowing with milk and honey” (Shemos 3:8). So why did Moshe agree to send the spies? The Ramban (on Bamidbar 13:2) explains Moshe’s consent in a beautiful way that also enlightens us to a new perspective of the uniqueness of the mitzvah to live in Eretz Yisroel: “Because Moshe knew that [the land] was rich and good, … he told them to pay attention so that they would know this, in order that they tell the nation [so that the nation would] rejoice and be reenergized to ascend [to Eretz Yisroel] with joy.” This is somewhat difficult to understand. We know that there is a general principle that one should perform all mitzvos with joy, as the pasuk (Tehillim 100:2) says, “Serve Hashem with joy…” But this refers to a general state of spiritual happiness that one is fulfilling Hashem’s command. This is a value common to all mitzvos that should accompany the performance of any mitzvah. But with regard to particular mitzvos, their purpose is not to give us physical enjoyment, as the Gemara (see, e.g., Eruvin 31a) says, “mitzvos were not given for physical enjoyment.” Physical enjoyment from mitzvos would make them “not for the sake of Heaven.” In contrast, with respect to the mitzvah to live in Eretz Yisroel, the Ramban teaches us that Moshe specifically want-

ed the Jewish people to know that the land was “rich and good” so that they would rejoice and feel great happiness while living in Eretz Yisroel. It seems that Moshe did not only want them to feel a spiritual enjoyment in knowing that they were fulfilling one of Hashem’s mitzvos. He wanted them to feel a geshmak, a sense of pleasure, from living in the land of Israel. This is why Hashem told us that Eretz Yisroel is “a good and expansive land … a land flowing with milk and honey” (Shemos 3:8). It is why Moshe told the spies (Bamidbar 13:20), “Strengthen yourselves and take from the fruit of the land.” He wanted them to see the geshmak of living in Eretz Yisroel. This is why, when Hashem first spoke to Avraham to command him to go to the land of Israel, He told him (Rashi on Bereishis 12:1), “Go for your good and for your pleasure.” The unique nature of the mitzvah

to enjoy living in Eretz Yisroel is also reflected in the Rambam’s statement (Hilchos Melachim 5:10), “The greatest scholars would kiss the borders of Eretz Yisroel, kiss its stones, and roll around in its dirt…” Living in Eretz Yisroel must be incredibly enjoyable! After returning from his visit to Eretz Yisroel, Rebbe Nachman once commented that the land was very beautiful. The listeners assumed he meant that in a spiritual or kabbalistic sense, but he clarified that he was talking about “the streets and the houses.” The fulfillment of the mitzvah to live in Eretz Yisroel must be enjoyable, beautiful, and geshmak!

The Pleasure of Learning Torah There is another mitzvah that is also an exception to the general principle that “mitzvos were not given for physical enjoyment.” And that is the mitzvah to study Torah. In this regard, the Taz

writes (Yoreh Deah 221:43) that if, for example, Reuven vows that Shimon may not derive any benefit from him [Reuven], then Shimon may not study Torah from Reuven’s sefer. He explains that this is because “the Torah certainly gladdens the heart… Therefore, this mitzvah [to study Torah] is not comparable to other mitzvos with regard to which we say that they are not given for physical enjoyment. In contrast, this [mitzvah to study Torah] brings a person enjoyment.” Because it offers tangible enjoyment, Shimon may not study from Reuven’s sefer. In order to counteract the erroneous notion maintained by some that Torah study is only for the sake of Heaven if one does not enjoy it, the Avnei Nezer writes in the introduction to his Sefer Eglei Tal that the primary fulfillment of the mitzvah to study Torah is to enjoy one’s learning and that this is the only way that the words of Torah will “become absorbed into the blood… This is what it means to study Torah for the sake of Heaven. It is entirely holy because even the enjoyment itself is a mitzvah.” According to the Avnei Nezer, enjoying one’s learning is the primary way one must fulfill the mitzvah of studying Torah! These two mitzvos involve the two main categories of enjoyment. The mitzvah to study Torah involves a positive emotional and intellectual enjoyment, and the mitzvah to live in Eretz Yisroel includes a component of physical enjoyment. The common denominator in these two mitzvos is that neither are circumscribed activities done for the sake of the performance of an obligatory act. Both are much more. They are life itself. With respect to Torah, we say

JUNE 11, 2026 | The Jewish Home

The Jewish Home | JUNE 11, 2026

76 (Maariv), “For they [the words of Torah] are our life and the length of our days.” Without Torah, we are like fish on dry land. The Torah is the wedding ring, the bond connecting the Jewish people and G-d. Can one imagine if a chosson told his kallah under the chuppah, “Just so you know, even though I’m marrying you, it’s nothing personal. I’m doing this because it’s a mitzvah. Sure, I’ll be happy, just like there is a mitzvah to do any of Hashem’s mitzvos with joy. But it has nothing to do with you. I do not enjoy you personally in any way.” What kind of marriage would that be!? Hashem expects us to enjoy Torah, to have a geshmak in our learning. That is the essence of our relationship with G-d. And it is the same with the mitzvah to live in Eretz Yisroel. Living there is not simply the ability to have a land of our own, a refuge from persecution, or even a place to unify us as a nation. The land of Israel is intertwined with the essence of our lives as Jews. As the pasuk (Tehillim 116:9) says, “I will walk before Hashem in the land of life.” The life of the Jewish people and Eretz Yisroel are inseparable. They are one life, one essence. The connection between them and the

reality that both are the essence of our lives is reflected in the pasuk (Devarim 32:47), “For it [the study of Torah] is your life and through it you will lengthen your days upon the land which you are crossing over the Jordan to possess it.” This is what Rav Kook describes at the beginning of Oros Me’ofel, as translated by Bezalel Naor, “The Land of Israel

entails. It is not a detail of our national reality, but rather it is an inherent part of the richness of our spiritual and physical life. With this in mind, we can now understand the root of the sin of the spies. As Dovid Hamelech said (Tehillim 106:24), “And they were disgusted by the desirable land.” With all of their justifications, the

He wanted them to feel a geshmak, a sense of pleasure, from living in the land of Israel.

is not something external, not an external national asset, a means to the end of collective solidarity and the strengthening of the nation’s existence, physical or even spiritual. The Land of Israel is an essential unit bound by the bond-of-life to the People, united by inner characteristics to its existence.” Eretz Yisroel is part of our lives, physical and spiritual, with all that this

spies concluded (Bamidbar 13:31), “We cannot ascend.” Calev, on the other hand, cried out (ibid. at 30), “We can surely ascend and take possession of it, we can surely succeed in doing it!” What was the difference between them? The spies put on their white fabric gloves, so to speak, inspected the land, found a speck of dust, turned up their noses and said, “You call this a good land?” “Is this a beautiful

kallah?” In contrast, Yehoshua and Calev said (ibid. at 14:7), “The land is exceedingly good!” “She is a beautiful and kind kallah!” (cf. Kesubos 17a). Rav Kook, zy”a, in his essay, The Great Call to Eretz Yisroel, writes, “[We must] destroy, with the powerful arm of the spirit and with the spiritual holiness of the desirable land, the filth of the spies…” Rav Kook calls upon us “to awaken the ancient love for Zion, to take hold of it and to settle it with the ropes of man and cords of love.” May Hashem allow us to learn the Torah and make our lives in Eretz Yisroel with joy, peace, and happiness. And may Hashem fulfill our request in the blessing of the haftara, “Have mercy on Zion because it is the house of our life. And save those who are sad of spirit and cause them to rejoice soon in our days. Blessed are You Hashem, Who causes Zion to rejoice in those who build it!”

Rav Moshe Weinberger, shlita, is the founding Morah d’Asrah of Congreagation Aish Kodesh in Woodmere, NY, and serves as leader of the new mechina Emek HaMelech.

JUNE 11, 2026 | The Jewish Home

The Jewish Home | JUNE 11, 2026

Think. Feel.Grow.

Why Does Hashem Send Us Challenges? By Rabbi Shmuel Reichman

f I were to ask you, “What is the wealthiest place in the universe?” what would you answer? You might suggest the banks, the diamond mines, or something along these lines. But in a sense, the wealthiest place in the world is the graveyard. Why? There, you’ll find dreams never chased after, ideas and inspiration never acted upon, music never composed, works of art never created, books never written, companies and organizations never built — endless potential never actualized. And, on our deathbed, these dreams and ideas come to us and say, “We came to you, and only you could have given us life, but you didn’t, and now, we die with you.” If we died today, what unrealized potential would die with us? What dreams, contributions, and creativity would remain unexpressed? What would we be taking with us to the grave?

Most people we know will probably say, “I’ll do it tomorrow.” But there’s no guarantee we will be here tomorrow. This is why the Mishnah in Avos (2:15) tells us to do teshuvah the day before we die. The Gemara explains this to mean that a person should always be in a process of teshuvah, because one never knows which day will be his last (Shabbos 153a). So, if we died today, what dreams, ideas, and potential would die with us?

Our Role Models There are, however, a few rare individuals out there who do act on their dreams and inspiration, who truly live lives of greatness. They maximize their time and actualize as much of their potential as possible. These rare individuals shine a light into this world and serve as an inspiration to all those who are fortunate enough to know them. Their existence alone inspires those around them to become more, to

want more, to demand more from themselves, and to raise their standards. Fascinatingly, many of these unique people have undergone tremendous challenges. They’ve been thrown down, torn apart, and pushed to the brink. And yet, they rose up, stronger than ever before, driven to greatness, serving as an inspiration to others. This begs the obvious question: did they become great despite their challenges or because of them? What is the secret to their success?

Yaakov’s Greatness All of the Avos and Imahos seem to face challenge after challenge, throughout their entire journey through life. Yaakov Avinu’s struggles seem to begin from his very birth; his battle with Eisav regarding the bechorah ends with Yaakov running for his life; he then has to deal with Lavan’s trickery; when he finally returns to Eretz Yisrael, he is confronted with the un-

fortunate events of Dinah and Shechem. If all that wasn’t enough, his favored son, Yosef, is now torn away from him. Yaakov is tormented with hardship after hardship, and yet, despite all these challenges, he still achieves absolute greatness. This leads us to our question: What is the spiritual purpose of a nisayon? There are several potential purposes for a challenge or test. A test is usually administered to evaluate a person’s knowledge or mastery of a given area. However, this cannot be the case in a test given by Hashem, as Hashem is all knowing and therefore fully aware of exactly how much we are capable of. What, then, is the purpose of a test? Why does Hashem constantly send us challenges and tests?

The Various Purposes of a Challenge 1: Contrast and Appreciation On the most basic level, we often only

2: Kappara On a slightly deeper level, Hashem may send us challenges in order to be mechaper (atone) for our past wrongdoings (Berachos 5a, Arachin 16b.). Instead of receiving all of our atonement in the World to Come, which would be far more severe, Hashem sends us yissurim (hardships) in this world (Mishnah Berurah 222:4). 3: Wake-Up Call The Ramchal explains that Hashem sometimes sends us a challenge in order to “wake us up,” i.e., to help us get back on the proper track (Derech Hashem 2:3:5). There may be times when we find ourselves on the wrong path, drowning in the physicality of life. In such circumstances, Hashem may choose to jolt us awake, motivating us to question our choices and direction in life. These challenges should push us to realign our values and to regain our desire to live with higher ideals. The Gemara says that if something negative happens to us, our first reaction should be to examine our deeds and try to determine what character trait we can work on (Berachos 5a). Sometimes, a challenge is the perfect way to jolt us out of our stupor, leading us to reassess our lives, reconnect with Hashem, and commit to living a more spiritual, purposeful life.

The Deeper Purpose of a Challenge There is a fundamentally deeper understanding of a challenge — one that reveals the very core spiritual purpose and effect of a test. In order to understand this deep level, we must examine the life of Avraham Avinu and the ten challenges he overcame. The Mishnah in Avos tells us that Avraham was subjected to ten tests and overcame them all, expressing his eternal dedication to Hashem (Avos 5:3). The commentators question the necessity for Avraham to undergo all these hardships. If Hashem already knew whether

Avraham could pass these tests, why even conduct them? The Ramban explains that the purpose of a challenge is to push us to actualize our latent potential — to transform our koach (potential) into po’al (actuality). (Ramban, Bereishis 22:1. See also Maharal, Gevuros Hashem, perek 22.) Hashem already knows exactly who you

heard the stories of a mother lifting a car to save her child; in any other scenario, this same mother wouldn’t even be able to move the car an inch. Our challenges bring out strength buried deep within us, helping us actualize our latent potential that would otherwise remain hidden. In our next article, we will dive even deeper into this topic and try to under-

speaker, bestselling author, business coach, the CEO of SMA, and a TED Talk Speaker. His online content reaches millions of people every month, and he lectures internationally on topics of Torah thought, psychology, leadership, and business – uniquely blending many areas of Torah and wisdom together. His bestselling book, The Journey to Your Ultimate Self, serves as an inspiring gateway into deeper Torah thought. After receiving his BA from Yeshiva University and Semicha from Yeshiva University’s RIETS, Rabbi

Our challenges bring out strength buried deep within us, helping us actualize our latent potential that would otherwise remain hidden.

Reichman received a Masters degree in Philosophy and Religion from the University of Chicago. As part of his Masters Degree at the University of Chicago, Rabbi Reichman received an Ivy Plus Scholarship to Harvard where he spent a year studying Religious Philosophy and Literature as an Ivy Scholar. Additionally, he received a Masters degree in Educational Psychology from Azrieli Grad-

are and what you can become. The purpose of an ordeal is to enable you to realize who you can become so that you can then actualize that potential. Each challenge that Avraham and the rest of the Avos overcame was another step in their journey toward perfection. The Rambam explains that this is why the word for challenge, nisayon, is based on the word for banner — nes (Rambam, Moreh Nevuchim 3:24). A group raises a banner or flag to express who they are and what they stand for. When we overcome challenges and achieve greatness, our perseverance and triumph serve as a banner for all to see and learn from. To better understand this concept, consider the following analogy: There was a man who was training to compete in the high-jump at the Olympics. He practiced every day, gaining strength and improving as he went. The first week, he was able to jump the three-foot fence. The next week, he made it over the fourfoot fence. After two more weeks, he was able to jump over the five-foot fence. But no matter how hard he trained, he just couldn’t clear the six-foot fence. After working on it for another five weeks, he began losing hope. One day, as he was about to head home, he saw a bull stampeding, full speed, straight at him. Seized by adrenaline, he flew right over the six-foot fence — the same fence that, just moments before, he was convinced he was unable to jump over. So, here’s the question: Was he capable of jumping over the fence until now? If not, what changed? The answer is profound: For quite some time, he had been capable of jumping over the fence. But sometimes, we need external pressure to help us fully harness our potential. We have all

stand the purpose of challenges on an ever more profound level. Until then, always remember: challenges are opportunities in disguise. Don’t waste your time, don’t waste your life, but most importantly, don’t add any wealth to the graveyard.

Rabbi Shmuel Reichman is an international

uate School and a Masters degree in Jewish Thought from Yeshiva University’s Bernard Revel Graduate School. As a business and leadership coach, Rabbi Reichman provides a unique 1-on-1 coaching program where he helps high-achievers, coaches, and business owners achieve their financial and personal goals. To learn more or to get in contact with Rabbi Reichman, visit his website: ShmuelReichman.com

JUNE 11, 2026 | The Jewish Home

appreciate things once we have lost them. One generally does not appreciate the importance of their hand in their daily routine until it breaks or how much they love someone until they’ve lost them. The Maharal and Ramchal explain that human beings learn through comparison and contrast. We understand the concept of wisdom by witnessing foolishness, goodness from witnessing evil, and wealth by witnessing poverty. The same goes for our health and quality of life. Only by experiencing the worst of times can we truly appreciate the best of times.

The Jewish Home | JUNE 11, 2026

Delving into the Daf

The Watermelon Mystery From Chullin to the Dessert Table By Rabbi Avrohom Sebrow

friend of mine once noticed a peculiar habit of his mother-in-law: whenever watermelon was served for dessert at a Shabbos meal, she would always eat it with a challah. Curious, he finally asked her, “Ma, why do you eat your watermelon with challah?” She smiled and shrugged. “I really don’t know. But my father always did it.” Her father, it should be noted, was a highly respected, meticulously observant rav in pre-war Europe. What was behind this European Rav’s holy watermelon-and-bread custom? The answer takes us on a fascinating journey through this week’s Daf Yomi, leading into a deep debate about rabbinic authority and ending right at our own dining room tables.

A Tale of Two Rulings on Chullin 44b In Chullin 44b, the Gemara shares a story about an animal whose windpipe had been partially cut. It was brought before the great sage Rav to determine if it was kosher or a treif. Rav sat and carefully examined the wound to see if the cut extended across the majority of the windpipe. It appears that Rav initially ruled it was treif. Later, however, the very same animal was brought before Rabba bar bar Chana. He examined it, judged the cut to be within kosher limits, declared it permitted, and even bought thirteen coins worth of meat from it!

The Gemara immediately asks: How could Rabba bar bar Chana permit something that Rav had already declared forbidden? There is a strict halachic rule that once a Torah scholar forbids something, another scholar cannot come along and permit it. The Gemara resolves the issue by explaining that Rav had never actually issued a definitive ruling; he was simply undecided, leaving the case open for Rabba bar bar Chana to rule.

Why Can’t a Rabbi Overturn a Colleague? This discussion sparked a debate among the Rishonim regarding why a second rabbi cannot overturn a previous strict ruling. • Rashi’s Approach (Niddah 20b): It’s About Respect. Rashi explains that this rule is rooted in kavod ha’chacham. Publicly overriding a colleague’s ruling degrades rabbinic authority and insults the dignity of the first rabbi. • The Ra’avad and Ritva’s Approach: It’s about the Object They argue a completely different point. When a rav pronounces an item forbidden, his words have power. His declaration transforms the object itself, infusing it with a concrete status of cheftza d’issura, a forbidden piece. Another scholar cannot simply undo that spiritual reality.

The Practical Differences While this sounds like abstract philosophy, the commentators point out some incredibly practical differences between these two views: Case

According to Rashi (Respect)

According to Ra’avad/Ritva (Spiritual Status)

Overturning a Lenient Ruling (A second rav wants to be strict)

Prohibited. It is still disrespectful to look at a colleague’s kosher ruling and say, “You’re wrong, it’s unkosher.”

Permitted. If the first rav said it was kosher, no “forbidden status” ever attached itself to the food. The second rav is free to be strict.

A Brand-New, Similar Case (An identical question on a different piece of meat)

Prohibited. To protect the first rabbi’s honor, you shouldn’t set a conflicting precedent in the community.

Permitted. The “forbidden status” only attached itself to that first specific piece of meat, not this new one.

Reversing One’s Own Ruling (The rabbi realizes he made a mistake)

Permitted. A rav changing his own mind doesn’t insult his own honor.

Prohibited! Once the rav pronounced it forbidden, he locked the lock and threw away the key. Even he cannot change the spiritual status he created.

Crucially, the Ra’avad and Ritva clarify that the ban on a rabbi reversing his own ruling is limited to the particular

object in question. A rav retains full authority to adopt a more lenient view for any similar case presented in the future!

81 From European Rabbis to the Dessert Dilemma

And there is the answer to our opening mystery! The mother-in-law’s father was simply following the stringency of the Brisker Rav and other great European scholars, ensuring his dessert was

The Griz (the Brisker Rav) famously ate his dessert compote with bread for this exact reason.

This author can even share a personal story: I was once present at shalosh seudos at MTJ (Mesivtha Tifereth Jerusalem) when melon was served. Someone asked the Rosh Yeshiva, Rav Dovid Feinstein, zt”l, if they should make a bracha. Rav Dovid said yes. However, I noticed that Rav Dovid himself was machmir and ate his own melon with bread, viewing it as the safest halachic route for himself, though not a requirement for everyone.

legally tied to his bread to avoid a halachic doubt.

A Final Scoop of Halacha: What About Ice Cream? If you don’t have bread handy, what do you do for cold desserts? Rav Moshe Feinstein, zt”l, ruled that Italian ices are legally considered a frozen drink, and since we don’t make a bracha on drinks during a meal, ices don’t get a bracha.

But ice cream is a different story. Rav Shimon Eider, zt”l, recalled being present when someone asked Rav Moshe if ice cream required a bracha after a meal. Rav Moshe asked, “What is it made of?” The man replied, “Primarily milk.” Rav Moshe said no bracha was needed. Later, Rav Eider was present when another person asked Rav Moshe the exact same question. Again, Rav Moshe asked, “What is it made of?” This time, the man replied, “Milkfat.” Rav Moshe responded that it does require a bracha! The Dirshu Mishnah Berurah (177:7) reports that both Rav Shlomo Zalman Auerbach and the Shevet Halevi ruled that regular ice cream eaten as dessert always requires its own bracha.

Rabbi Avrohom Sebrow is a rebbe at Yeshiva Ateres Shimon in Far Rockaway. In addition, Rabbi Sebrow leads a daf yomi chaburah at Eitz Chayim of Dogwood Park in West Hempstead, NY. He can be contacted at ASebrow@gmail.com.

JUNE 11, 2026 | The Jewish Home

So, how does a rabbi changing his mind connect to watermelon and bread? Enter the famous halachic debate regarding whether we should say a bracha on dessert during a bread meal. In the Mishnah Berurah (Sha’ar HaTziyun 117:7), the Chofetz Chaim originally ruled that one should make a new blessing on dessert (like cooked fruit/compote), because dessert is eaten for pleasure, not to satisfy hunger, and isn’t part of the core meal. However, Rav Moshe Shternbuch (Teshuvos V’Hanhagos 1:177) records an amazing piece of history: The Chofetz Chaim changed his mind. Rav Avraham Gerwitz, zt”l, noted that the Chofetz Chaim explained to his grandfather that when the Mishnah Berurah was written, restaurants didn’t include dessert as part of a standard meal. Later in life, dessert became standard practice, meaning it was now covered by the original Hamotzi on the bread. Thus, the Chofetz Chaim stopped making a bracha on his compote! Rav Elyashiv ruled that while technically a bracha shouldn’t be made, the

best way to escape the doubt is to eat your dessert with a piece of bread. In fact, the Griz (the Brisker Rav) famously ate his dessert compote with bread for this exact reason.

The Jewish Home | JUNE 11, 2026

Headlines

Halacha

How to Make Your Child Go Off the Derech by Rabbi Yair Hoffman

his is one of the most painful subjects in our community. It is also one of the most misunderstood. When a young person walks away from Torah and mitzvos, most people look outside the home for the cause. They blame bad friends, a phone, or the culture all around us. Those things are real, and a wise parent does not ignore them. It may not be politically correct to say it, but a not insignificant part of the time, however, a child who leaves is reacting to something inside the home, not outside of it. Teens who reject their family’s way of life are, at times, reacting to hurt and fights with their parents, and the parents do not see it. They are not reacting to some flaw they were born with or to the outside world. There is also a second concept, a scientific one, that helps explain why the damage goes so far. Deep in the brain is the amygdala. It is the alarm system that warns us of danger. It does not care about hashkafa or theology. It cares about safety. When a child spends years in a religious setting feeling like a failure — or worse, feeling neglected or abused — the brain starts to connect things. Slowly, the symbols of Torah, like Shabbos, or the Gemara, or shul, or tzinius get tied to pain. An effective mashal is an electrical outlet that shocks you every time you touch it. After a while, your body screams at you to stay away. Looked at this way, “leaving” is often not about beliefs at all. It is a way to survive. A life of Torah is supposed to calm a person and make him feel steady. But when it does the opposite and fills him with stress, the teen runs in order to feel safe. Here is the hopeful part. A parent cannot change a child’s nature and cannot block out the whole world. But a

that who he is just isn’t good enough does not only leave the school. He leaves the system that he thinks approved of that rejection.

Treat Every Question As Rebellion When a child asks why, treat it as back-talk instead of curiosity. Shut him down with “we don’t ask that.” The Sefer Chassidim teaches that the mitzvah to respect parents also places a duty on the parents. They should not be so harsh that the child cannot hold himself back and rebels. A child who is not allowed to ask his questions at home does not stop having them. He just takes them somewhere else, to people who are happy to answer.

parent can change the relationship. And that relationship, more than anything else, decides whether Yiddishkeit feels like safety or like pain. So here is an article written backwards. It does not claim to have all the answers. But it is a suggestion that may open up our eyes. Imagine someone wanted to push a child to leave. Suppose that was the actual goal. Here is how to do it. Read each one, and the right thing to do may become more clear.

Turn The Home Into a Courtroom Make the house a place where the child is always being judged. Let every talk come back to grades, behavior, and what he or she did wrong. One Torah educator asked a set of parents to record everything they said at home for a few days. When they listened to it later, they were shocked at how often they criticized their children. Most parents who do this have no idea they are doing it. Too much criticism is

the number one thing that breaks the bond between parent and child. A child who feels the home is a courtroom will stop showing up to be judged.

Build a System That Values Only One Kind of Child Set up a system where only one thing matters: being smart and able to sit and learn for many hours. Make sure any child who does not fit that mold knows he or she is worthless. Picture the boy in the back row who kept drumming on his desk. The teachers called it a problem and wanted to punish him. Then a teacher named Mr. Johnson did something different. He handed the boy a pair of drumsticks and told him he was made to be a drummer. That boy did not have a behavior problem. He had a talent waiting to come out, like a statue waiting inside a block of marble. When a school treats one kind of child as better than the rest, it turns into a prison instead of a place that helps children grow. A child who is told

Make Yiddishkeit Joyless For the Child Take out all the joy and leave only the rules. And make sure the joylessness lands on the child in particular. Let the adults enjoy their friends and their lively Torah talk. Meanwhile, the child’s whole experience of Shabbos is being corrected: sit still, stop fidgeting, why aren’t you bentching… Yiddishkeit is passed down through the generations, and parents are the ones who pass it. If the relationship carrying it is broken, what gets passed down will be broken too. A child who only tastes the rules, while the warmth happens over his head, has been handed an empty box and told to treasure it.

Make Kedusha Sound Like Nothing But a List Of No’s Turn a holy life into a cold list of rules, especially about closeness and marriage. Fill the child with the fearful, and often simply wrong, messages about these things that push so many people away. This is actually a twisting

Compare, Constantly Hold up the neighbor’s son, the cousin in the better yeshiva, and the sibling who just gets it. And get the child wrong while you do it. One father complained that his son never opened a sefer at home. But that same son was learning hard at an out-of-town yeshiva and only came home once a month, when he naturally needed to relax. The father read it as laziness. A child who is always measured against others, and against a false picture of himself, learns he will never be good enough. And a child who decides he can never measure up eventually stops trying.

Choose Shame Over Guidance Answer every mistake with a label and some embarrassment. Be the father who calls his daughter with a learning disability “lazy” or “a manipulator from day one.” Shame tells a child that he or she is bad. Guidance talks about what the child did. Only one of the two lets him stay in the room.

Make Love Depend On Being Religious Show the child, in a hundred small ways, that your love goes up and down with how observant he or she is. Rav Chaim Pinchas Scheinberg pointed to exactly this as the root of rebellion. If there are rebels, he said, it is because they were never given real love. The trap is the gap between loving and accepting. Almost every parent loves his child. Many find it much harder to accept the child as she really is. And a child can feel the difference.

Never Apologize, and Never Go First Hold the line that a parent is never wrong and should never have to make the first move. Use the easy excuse: that you can’t be expected to change while the child is still acting up. But a parent and a child do not share the relationship equally. Most of the responsibility sits with the parent. It is the parent’s job

to build something warm and steady, no matter how the child is acting right now. A parent who can never say “I’m sorry” and never goes first teaches that the system is stiff, harsh, and not worth staying in.

Treat a Struggling Child As an Embarrassment Care more about what people will say than about the child in front of you. Think of the father whose sad, with-

the hanging around so you can rebuild the bond underneath. Do not use every right you have just because you have it. A rule that makes a child angrier costs more than it is worth. Notice small progress as it comes, instead of holding back your approval until the child is finally perfect. And change the belief at the bottom of it all. The child is usually not acting out of meanness or laziness. She is acting out of a real pain that can be reached.

A life of Torah is supposed to calm a person and make him feel steady.

drawn son left the Shabbos table in the middle of the meal and went to his room. The father was not worried about a clearly hurting boy. A child who feels he has become an embarrassment to the family has already started to leave.

Model Bullying, Then Call It Religious Teach a child that pushing people around is how strong people act. Teach him that connections to great rabbis are tools to use, not relationships to live. Picture a father who builds a close relationship with a great rav. Then he uses it as a weapon. He drops the rav’s name to win arguments, to pressure a neighbor, to lean on a rebbi, and to shame anyone in his way. The whole time, he acts like the rav’s most devoted follower. The child sees all of it. He learns two things at once: that bullying works, and that religion is just the costume it wears. The same thing happens at home when a parent puts down a spouse at the table or picks on the weaker child. Often, mean behavior is a cry for love that never came. A child raised to bully in Hashem’s name usually sees through it in the end. When the child rejects the bullying, the Yiddishkeit it was wrapped in is also rejected.

Under every one of these is a single idea. It is not observance. It is attachment — a safe, loving connection. The opposite of a child disconnecting is not a stricter standard. It is the unconditional love of a parent. The day a child pulls up to the house in a car on Shabbos or shows a tattoo is a huge crossroads. The parent’s own dream lies shattered

This article should be viewed as a halachic discussion and not practical advice. The author can be reached at yairhoffman2@gmail.com.

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Now Do the Opposite Read the list backwards and the way home appears on its own. Stop criticizing and mean it — a put-down said with a smile or “for his own good” is still a put-down. Put the relationship ahead of the behavior. For a while, be willing to overlook the late mornings and

on the floor. Every instinct says to set a hard boundary, or to cut the child off to protect your other children or your values. But the lifeboat for that child is the parent who chooses the child over the broken dream. Real safety is what finally lets a stressed-out heart relax. Only from a place of safety can a person ever come back and see Hashem as a reason to celebrate instead of a reason to feel ashamed. When a child feels loved no matter what he has chosen, the pain slowly loses its grip. None of this is meant to blame parents. Raising children is some of the hardest work there is, and most parents are doing it while carrying heavy loads of their own. It is meant to show how much power a parent holds. The same power that can drive a child away is the power that can bring her home. In any home where a child is struggling, the most important sentence may also be the simplest. Make the child’s happiness, not your own nachas, the goal.

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JUNE 11, 2026 | The Jewish Home

of the tradition. The Holy of Holies was the most sacred place that ever existed. Inside it were the Keruvim, two figures shown in a loving embrace. Real closeness in Judaism is built on being open and a little vulnerable, not just on following rules. Take the human warmth out of religious life and leave only a wall of no’s, and you have removed its soul while keeping its rulebook.

The Jewish Home | JUNE 11, 2026

School of

Thought

Getting to Where They Need to Go By Barbara Deutsch

ome days, it just works like that. Very early Monday, 10:30 a.m. flight, I got ready to go home. The morning began with my starting the shower which has both handheld and overhead streams. When I was accidentally blasted from the side with ice cold water as soon as the water turned on, I knew that it would be just “one of those days!” Soaked, I leaped back as I realized that I would need to leave my now wet favorite white t-shirt dress behind. Oh, well. I figured out my last-minute packing needs, got them ready, and said my last, very hard goodbyes. I could not seem to locate a precious piece of jewelry that my mother-in-law had designed for me. I had put it away in one of the drawers for safekeeping. Fruitless searching added to my ever-present travel tension. In the Deutsch family, our daughterin-law Tamar is good about taking care of all of the annoying details that everyone procrastinates doing. Tamar’s gold standard heart tries to make sure that anyone

who needs parnassah gets the benefit of her loyalty. That is how I wound up with an Israeli driver who is a wonderful and reliable guy who can’t lift heavy things. This “minor” issue can present a problem when there are four heavy duffels, three of them without wheels, that need to be taken to the airport. As I stood riddled with frustration – my incompetent knees forestall lifting heavy anything – Tamar came to the rescue and “shlepped” the heavy bags into the car. I am well aware that I have in the past said I won’t take so many heavy bags back to Israel; it’s a waste of time for me to bother responding to myself. With me emitting negative energy and leaking annoyance over the whole bag debacle, the cabbie and I said goodbye to Tamar and headed to JFK in heavy silence. Just as we were about to turn into the departure lane, my driver noticed a big CLOSED sign. A parked security car blocked the exit, and a portly uniformed guard detoured any oncoming traffic.

My driver rolled down his window requesting alternative options. “I have a “handicapped” (I’m not) passenger with four heavy bags in the car going to Departure,” he said. The officer sneered, pulled himself up to his short height and pointed to the Arrivals exit. “Go there and someone will help you get a wheelchair,” he barked. I started to cry; it was my tipping point. I don’t need a wheelchair! With no other option, we drove to Arrivals where there were a few struggling younger passengers pulling their heavy wheeled bags across the road and into Arrivals on their way to Departures downstairs and across the terminal. Nowhere to be seen was there a single helpful soul to help me with my bags or my person. My cabbie said, “We will go around again, and Hashem will help us.” I looked up and made my plea. We circled around, left the airport and went back onto the road that led to Departures. The road was OPEN – the sign,

the car and the security police gone. I tipped the cab driver an extra 10 dollars as an apology for my bad attitude. Thank you, Hashem. It’s been a long month away from my Israel home; I did find that the time passed slowly and quickly. My days were filled with annual doctor visits, breakfast, lunch and/or dinner with friends and family (I am planning a restaurant blog), a bar mitzvah, two sheva brachot, saying goodbye to Toronto (a nice city that was good for our kids) and shopping for things I needed for the unexpected New York and Toronto cold but don’t need for my new Israel home. All waiting to be put away. Strangely, despite living my entire dating and married life in New York, I was unable to find Bob in America; I grapple with “why?” For Bob and me, moving to Israel was a full-time commitment. The downside of separating us from our families and friends for long periods of time was dif-

After an uneventful day flight of watching three movies, I landed in Israel in the middle of the night. The prearranged VIP service helped me get my mounds of luggage and escorted me to the cab arranged by Zion, who is the best. The cabbie, a small, strong guy with no lifting issues, drove quickly to Jerusalem with no traffic. He helped me drag my bags into the apartment. It was 4:00 a.m., and I left the bags on the living room floor, washed up, and went to bed. I woke up the next day at 11:00 a.m.

Who am I? I have never done this before. Upon my return, I reorganized my sundries closet, sorted through the makeup I never wear (most), did laundry, dumped all the packed clothes (one suitcase) on the mahmad bed, gave out all the packages, and shelved the 35 (yes) books I got and bought. There can never be enough books. I am back to my beloved Torah class-

ing late, I am usually on time but rarely early. Even though I can easily walk to my Hebrew class, I took a Gett because I was running late. The ride to the meeting place on Keren Hayesod costs 24 shekel, unless you get caught up in the never-ending construction. With nowhere to stop safely, I asked the driver to let me off on the corner, kvish. I used the wrong word for corner. I wanted to say pina (corner). The cabbie

I’m guilty of trying to do too much in small pockets of time.

es, papercutting, calligraphy, eating at good restaurants, and, of course, the gym. I started a new conversational Hebrew workshop with a small group of well-educated women. The only requirement is that only Hebrew can be spoken. It’s challenging, and I like it. I’m guilty of trying to do too much in small pockets of time. I also hate be-

drove all around the open blocks for a new cost of 48 shekel to drop me in front. I did not want that! Despite my best intentions, I blasted the driver. His response to my frustration: “Learn Hebrew.” I have to work on my “blasts.” I’m trying. In my Breslov class, we talk about tefillah. Here, I am exposed to people

and ideas that get me thinking about my choices, who I am and who I want to be. It’s hard to travel solo on a road that is rocky and strange. My first class back, we discussed how intentional (kavana) and meaningful prayer can get answered. I told the class about my cab driver and the Departure exit being opened. It got a lot of head nods and aahs. In Israel, I found Bob and my necklace. I wore the necklace to Yudit and Moshe’s magnificent wedding, the first of my precious charedi girls to get married. Her parents were my campers, and her grandmother is a beloved dear friend. The venue near the tayelet was breathtaking. I was able to envision Bob hovering in the clouds above the chuppah. The joy, the energy, the innocence, and the opportunities for a new young family invigorated and inspired me. Mazal tov, Yudit and Moshe. It’s good to be back!

Barbara Deutsch is the former associate principal at HANC, middle school principal at Kushner, and Dean of Students at Yeshiva of Flatbush. A not-retired educator, she is still trying to figure out life in Israel.

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JUNE 11, 2026 | The Jewish Home

ficult. We were lucky in that we have our daughter Rachel’s family and friends who were already living here to help us with the bumps in the transition. I do not recommend moving here without having at least one family to support and anchor you in this pretty complicated aliyah endeavor. That does not mean that there aren’t many people who do it without any family. It’s just harder. We are blessed that our kids and many of our beloved friends who are like family visit frequently. More and more are buying apartments and hope to spend quality time in Israel; welcome Irv and Tara.

The Jewish Home | JUNE 11, 2026

nspiration Nation

Eli Sharabi

Choosing Life after 491 Days of Survival By Eliyahu RosEnBERg

efore October 7, Eli Sharabi’s life was, in his words, “too good to be true.” It was what he imagined Heaven to be like: an existence as free as the wind, as tranquil as the fields, and as joyful as can be. “We were a very happy family in Kibbutz Be’eri,” Eli says, reminiscing about his life before October 7. “I arrived at the kibbutz from Tel Aviv when I was 16 years old. I was fed up with buses and concrete. I wanted fields, and I wanted to

raise children on a kibbutz. Then, I met Lianne — she was a volunteer from England in the kibbutz — and we fell in love. We had two daughters, Noiya and Yahel, and raised them in a beautiful, peaceful place. We had great times. Lianne was a dental assistant, and I was the CFO of the kibbutz. We had a quiet, normal life.” Kibbutz Be’eri wasn’t only his home. It was his life, representing everything he cherished. But then, on the morning of October 7,

In His Words… i choose life. i choose to see the light. i can’t do anything to bring lianne and my daughters back to me. i can’t do anything. But i’m alive, and i really, really love life. i don’t want to live in sadness. i don’t see anything good in sorrow, and i can’t get any strength from darkness. The grief and the loss of my wife, my daughters, and my brother — it will always be with me. But it’ll be alongside life, not instead of life. i wasn’t religious, but from the moment i was kidnapped until the moment i was released, my faith in g-d was great. i saw a lot of miracles in gaza, and i felt hashgacha pratis. For me, the meaning of life is not my academic degrees anymore, not the work, and not the numbers. it’s just to help people. To listen. To be there for them.

his paradise’s tranquility was shattered by the sounds of alarms screeching, urgent notifications chirping, and then, the footsteps of terrorists invading their home. Eli’s heaven ended from one minute to the next in the chaos of gunfire, shouting, and raging fires devouring wooden homes. As the terrorists dragged Eli away, he looked at his daughters and wife for one last time and yelled, “I’ll be back!” “I probably would’ve said something else,” Eli comments, “if I knew that would be the last time I’d see them.” Moments later, Eli found himself in a car barreling south toward the Gaza border. At that moment, he closed his eyes and recited Shema Yisrael — a prayer he would say daily from that day forward. Around 20 minutes later, he was in the center of Gaza. A terrorist pulled him out of the car, a mob of civilians surrounding him, kids screaming and throwing shoes at him — a hysterical crowd desperate to land as many punches and kicks as it could. A terrorist grabbed him away from the mob. Soon thereafter, he and a Thai hostage found themselves tied up in the apartment of a Hamas terrorist — where he stayed for 52 days. “For the first three days, they tied our hands behind our backs and our legs with ropes that tore our flesh,” Eli recounts. “It was agony. I remember, in those three days, I kept fainting from time to time for two or three hours, woke up, and asked for water. And after three days, another two Hamas terrorists arrived to guard us. They took away the ropes but still kept a locked chain on my legs. And we were like that for 52 days.”

Then, one day, the terrorists moved Eli and a fellow hostage, Almog Sarusi, to their new home: a dark, cramped tunnel. * * * There were six hostages in the tunnel with Eli — all younger than himself: Almog, Hersh Goldberg-Polin, Ori Danino, Eliya Cohen, Or Levy, and Alon Ohel. “I was the oldest there. All the other six were kidnapped from the Nova festival. Most of them were very young, and I was like their father there,” he recalls. “It was the first time I felt belonging and had somebody to talk to in Hebrew in 52 days. It was a relief that I wasn’t alone, and it gave us hope that we could survive.” Three days later, a terrorist took Hersh, Ori, and Almog away. “You three are going home,” the terrorist told them. Only in the final days of his captivity did Eli discover that the three weren’t released; they were moved to a different location and later executed. In the dark tunnels, the four hostages gave each other light. They spoke about their families, upbringings, and lives, and through the torture, they brought each other sanity, laughter, and inspiration, starting each morning together by reciting Birchas HaShachar and Shema Yisrael, and reciting blessings every Shabbos. While Hamas treated them like animals, they reminded each other of their humanity. Oftentimes, Eli told them that they didn’t have the right to despair. “You can cry. You can break. But you can never lose your faith. Because, the minute the next deal comes, we need to be alive for that moment,” he’d tell them.

eating just one bowl of pasta. And if they had pita bread, they gave us each one and a half pitas. Sometimes, we fasted for more than 30 hours until food arrived.” * * * Ten days before Eli and Or’s release, a Hamas commander visited them in the tunnel and ordered their captors to feed them and cut the chains off their legs. “The commander asked me to identify myself. He showed me 33 pictures on his laptop. And of course, I identified myself and other hostages. I saw pictures of girls, soldiers, and old men. For a second, I saw a picture of a ginger baby,” Eli recalls. “And of course, it was Kfir Bibas, along with Shiri and Ariel, who were killed in captivity.” Two days before Eli’s release, a Hamas terrorist gleefully told him that his brother, Yossi Sharabi, was kidnapped on October 7 and later murdered in captivity. The news broke Eli’s heart, but he stayed optimistic, hoping to see his wife, daughters, and family again. On the day of his release, the terrorists woke him, Or, and another hostage, Ohad Ben Ami, at 5:00 a.m. for three hours of “rehearsals” for Hamas’s sadistic hostage ceremony. “We practiced what they would ask us and what they’d want us to answer at the ceremony. And one of the questions for me was, ‘What do you want to say to your wife and daughters who are waiting for you in Israel?’” Eli remembers. “That shows how cruel they are. Because, of course, they knew that my wife and daughters had been murdered.” After the ceremony, the Red Cross transported the three men to Israel. All the while, Eli imagined his wife and daughters running to him, embracing him, ecstatic that he’s finally home. After arriving at an IDF base, Eli was greeted by a psychologist. “Your mom and sister are waiting for you,” she told Eli.

“I want to see Lianne and the girls first,” he replied. Suddenly, the psychologist’s expression turned grim. “Your…your mother and sister will tell you,” she responded. And that’s when Eli realized. He understood that his beloved wife and daughters were not waiting for him; they had been killed on October 7. Eli broke down, crying for seven minutes, and then he wiped away his tears and went to see his mother and sister. “I knew that I needed to choose now: either I could let the grief bury me, or I could find a way to continue,” he declares. “If I could say goodbye to my wife and daughters, I would tell them I’m sorry that I couldn’t protect them on October 7,” Eli shares. “Maybe if I knew this would be the result, I would’ve fought. And that’s what I told Lianne’s parents on February 8, the day I was released. I phoned them, and I apologized that I couldn’t protect their daughter and their granddaughters. And they gave me a lot of strength.” * * * It’s impossible to comprehend how a man could survive 491 days of never-ending torture, come home to the worst news imaginable, and still find the strength to choose life and maintain faith in G-d. But Eli Sharabi finds comfort in simply living. “I’m very lucky. I’m a lucky guy. I’m lucky to be alive. I’m lucky to be free. I’m lucky to have a great family: my mom, brother, sisters, parents-in-law, and brothers-in-law. They’re all great to me. I have great friends, and they all stopped their lives and fought for me while I was in captivity. I don’t have the privilege to be in bed all day, crying after all that they’ve done for me, and what Am Yisrael has done for all the hostages. It’s amazing,” Eli shares. Moreover, he finds strength in the power to choose. For 491 days, he was deprived of most freedoms, but he always

found comfort in choosing how to react to his circumstances. “I didn’t choose to be kidnapped, and I didn’t choose what happened to us on October 7. But I was always able to choose how to react and what to hold on to, and how to stay human when the conditions were extreme and I didn’t have any food. And for me, life is all about choosing. And I choose life,” he declares. “I choose to see the light. I can’t do anything to bring Lianne and my daughters back to me. I can’t do anything. But I’m alive, and I really, really love life. I don’t want to live in sadness. I don’t see anything good in sorrow, and I can’t get any strength from darkness. “The grief and the loss of my wife, my daughters, and my brother — it will always be with me. But it’ll be alongside life, not instead of life.” Before October 7, Eli Sharabi was a private person — a kibbutznik living a modest, happy life. Although the massacre tore nearly everything he loved away from him — his home, his wife, daughters, and brother, and his peaceful life — it gave Eli something new, something powerful: a mission. His mission isn’t only to share his story and reveal the horrors that the hostages endured — which he does in his bestselling book, Hostage — but, simply, to help people. “I found meaning in life through captivity. On October 7, I promised my daughters, ‘I’ll be back.’ After that, I promised the Thai worker that I was with that I’ll help him come back to his family in Thailand. And two months later, I met Alon Ohel, and the day I left, I said to him, ‘I’ll fight for you to reunite with your family,’” Eli Sharabi recalls. “I understood my meaning in life. Before that, it was to be a CFO. But for me, the meaning of life is not my academic degrees anymore, not the work, and not the numbers. It’s just to help people. To listen. “To be there for them.”

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

JUNE 11, 2026 | The Jewish Home

“Our families are fighting for us. And we have to fight for them.” Though secular, they spent many of their hours in captivity talking to G-d. “Every day, we asked that our families are alright, and that we’ll be released. We asked Him to give us strength to survive this [gehenom]. It wasn’t easy,” Eli shares. “It wasn’t easy at all. Because day by day, you ask, ‘Why is it not happening?’ And it’s not easy to keep faith. But we used to say to each other that faith is easy when everything is good. When times are bad, it’s challenging, but this is the time that we have to keep our faith in G-d. “I wasn’t religious, but from the moment I was kidnapped until the moment I was released, my faith in G-d was great. I saw a lot of miracles in Gaza, and I felt hashgacha pratis.” On October 7, 2023, Eli Sharabi was 70 kilos (154 pounds). After 491 days in captivity — on February 8, 2025, the day he came home — he was 44 kilos (97 pounds). He and his fellow hostages survived unspeakable torture, emerging from captivity emaciated in images that recalled the Holocaust. They were beaten and toyed with. Starved. Degraded. “Every day, they told us that the Israeli government and our families forgot us, that they’re going to slaughter us, and that we’re not going to come back to our families,” Eli recalls. Unlike some hostages, the four had no contact with the outside world — no radios or televisions to eavesdrop on. “In July 2024, the terrorists came to us one day, and they said, ‘From now on, you’re going to eat one meal a day.’ Until then, we ate twice a day: once in the morning, once in the evening. And they said, ‘Our prisoners are suffering in Israel, so, from now on, you are going to suffer.’ Most of the time, we got one bowl of pasta a day,” he remembers. “For 180 days, we fasted every day after

The Jewish Home | JUNE 11, 2026

Dating Dialogue

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

Dear Navidaters,

I was wondering if the panel could help me with this. I’m a 24-year-old physical therapist and have been dating for a couple years. I make home visits to the elderly. Recently, I was

with a client, and she was talking all about her amazing single grandson, whom she wants to set me up with. I’m afraid if I take the bait and go forward, things will be very awkward working with her. She’s a very forthcoming personality and pushy. I can imagine if we go out and if I say no she won’t stop talking about/ giving me tzarus about it. On the other hand, I don’t want to pass up what could potentially be a great idea. What’s the smartest way to go forward with this? Thank you, Yael*

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.

Dear Readers, We want to offer YOU an opportunity to be part of the discussion! Please email us at MichelleMondShadchan@gmail.com, subject line “reader’s response,” if you would like to participate in the new “A Reader’s Response” columnist spot. We will send you a question and publish your answer in an upcoming Navidaters edition. If you have a question you would like the Navidaters to answer, please reach out to this email as well. Looking forward! Michelle, the “Shadchan”

The Rebbetzin Rebbetzin Faigie Horowitz, M.S.

ael, you are smart not to pass up the opportunity, yet you want to protect yourself. Talk it over with your client and explain to her that you will entertain her suggestion and go out with him but she has to do hers – not pressure you. Tell her how much you like her and care about her personally and professionally and want the relationships to continue whether or not this suggestion goes somewhere. Openness is the best. But you do know your client, and you may still be worried. Therefore, you may want to get someone involved, perhaps a shadchan or someone you both know to serve as the go-between. S/he can tell grandma that it’s probably more comfortable for both of you this way as you want to keep seeing her professionally. Keep thanking the senior for her caring and consideration but keep the shidduch in the hands of someone else who can remind her that this is necessary to maintain a good working relationship.

The Shadchan Michelle Mond

irstly, I would tell you to stop and take a moment to thank Hashem for giving you this experience. It’s not every day that someone you work with so closely would not only go out of their

way to think of an idea for you but to think of a grandson! What a compliment! You are clearly doing something right – whether it be your excellent social skills or how you hold yourself. This is truly every single girl’s dream! I would suggest telling Mrs. Yentelmeyer (you didn’t give a name, so I took the liberty of creating one that fits the character), how much you appreciate her offer. Ask her to tell you about her grandson. If what you hear piques your interest, my suggestion is to tell her the following. “Mrs. Yentelmeyer, your grandson sounds AMAZING! I’m so honored that you thought of me! I’m currently busy, but that could change. I usually go through a specific shadchan, so do you mind giving me his name so I could give it over to this shadchan if I end up becoming available again?” This accomplishes a few things. It takes the responsibility out of Grandma’s hands and makes it clear you’d use a professional going forward. Also, since you’ve said you’re busy, she (hopefully) won’t keep asking you for details or updates. You can use your time to find out if this guy is really a good match for you. If indeed he is a good match and the suggestion is redt, you will have to assume Mrs. Yentelmeyer will hear about it. You should go forward with it anyway! We are all Klal Yisroel – what do you have to worry about? She will understand at the end of the day if things don’t work out between the two of you. Not everyone is for everyone. If she gives you a hard time with it, take it with a grain of salt and some humor. If it works out in the end, please update us here because you have a massive audience already who is dying to know the ending to this story!

The Zaidy

Wonderful matches have been

Dr. Jeffrey Galler

made in stranger ways.

n this world, everyone has an important job to perform. A physical therapist tries to restore her patients to healthy function; a grandmother tries to get her grandchildren married; and a newspaper columnist tries to suggest common-sense solutions to seemingly intractable problems. Let’s discuss your situation. If you think about it, you should, of course, be flattered that your patient thinks so highly of you. You must have made a very good impression on her. So, how to proceed? At this stage of your life, you’ve likely developed a network of trusted friends, reliable contacts, and mentors. It should be a relatively simple matter for you to discreetly check out

her grandson and determine if he seems like a good fit for you. After that, you have two options. Option #1 If it does seem like a good opportunity for you, then perhaps you should agree to go on a date with him. Perhaps this is Hashem’s way of setting you up with your Mr. Right. What do you really have to lose? Then, if the two of you do go out and simply don’t hit it off, you can both move on to your next opportunities. Option #2 On the other hand, if you determine

JUNE 11, 2026 | The Jewish Home

The Panel

The Jewish Home | JUNE 11, 2026

that this guy is not someone you wish to meet and date, then simply decline the opportunity, and explain to your patient, “I’m very flattered that you think so highly of me. But I am seeing someone right now.” In the unlikely event that the patient presses you for more details, just reply sweetly, “My grandmother told me, that when I am dating someone, I should not discuss it with anyone. Even a nice lady like you.” Simple. Polite. Definitive. And, hopefully, enough to keep the focus on your patient’s therapy, where it belongs.

Reader’s Response Rachel Shteierman A Waterbury Shadchan

ear Yael, I think there are two separate things to think about here. The first is the actual suggestion. Just because your client thinks her grandson is amazing does not necessarily mean this is a good idea for you. Before getting nervous about what may happen afterward, I think you first have to find out if there is even

Pulling It All Together

something to discuss. Would he be interested? Does the idea make sense to you? Is he the type of person you would normally look into? If it does sound like a real possibility, then the second piece is how to go forward in a way that keeps things comfortable. Since you work with the grandmother, I think it would be very reasonable to set that up from the beginning. You can tell her warmly that you appreciate her thinking of you, and that because you enjoy working with her and don’t want anything to become uncomfortable, you would feel better if someone else handled the shidduch. For example, you could say something like, “I really appreciate you thinking of me. I would be open to looking into it, but since I work with you and I don’t want that relationship to change in any way, I think it would be better if

Saying yes to one date is not saying yes to a relationship.

someone else is the go-between.” That way, if you go out and it works, wonderful. And if either side says no, there is a boundary so hopefully it doesn’t become something that is discussed every time you come for a visit. So I would not say to automatically pass it up. But I also would not jump in just because the grandmother is pushing it. First, see if the suggestion itself makes sense, and if it does, make sure the boundaries are clear before anything starts.

The Navidaters Dating and Relationship Coaches and Therapists

ear Yael, First of all, I want to validate that your hesitation makes perfect sense. You’re not simply deciding whether to go out with a man. You’re deciding whether to potentially blur a relationship that already exists and one that, by the nature of your work, requires professionalism and clear boundaries. There are two competing truths here. One is that wonderful matches have been made in stranger ways. Grandmothers have been setting up grandchildren since the beginning of time, and it’s entirely possible that this grandson is every bit as amazing as she believes he is. The second truth is that once you invite someone from your professional world into your dating world, it can be difficult to untangle the two if things don’t work out. Before deciding, I would ask yourself one question: if this woman were

not your patient, and a friend de scr ibed this grandson to you, would you be interested enough to explore it? If the answer is yes, I wouldn’t automatically dismiss the idea simply because of where it came from. That said, I would proceed with a great deal of clarity. I would let her know, warmly and appreciatively, that because she is your client, you want to keep expectations low and avoid making things awkward for either of you. You don’t owe her explanations about your dating decisions, and if you do go out with her grandson, I would strongly recommend not sharing details with her beyond, “Thank you for thinking of us. We’re getting to know each other.” I also think it’s important to trust the information you’re already picking up. You describe her as “forthcoming and pushy.” Often, our anxiety isn’t

random. Sometimes it’s our mind recognizing dynamics before we’ve consciously articulated them. If you already suspect that she may struggle to respect boundaries, believe that information. You don’t need to assume the worst, but you also don’t need to ignore what you’re seeing. And remember, saying yes to one date is not saying yes to a relationship. You are not committing to her dream, her hopes, or her expectations. You’re simply agreeing to gather information about another human being. In therapy, we often talk about differentiation: the ability to stay connected to someone without becoming responsible for their feelings. If you decide to meet him, your task will be exactly that. To allow this grandmother to be excited without feeling obligated to manage her disappointment if things don’t work out. And if the potential stress of navigating her personality outweighs your

curiosity about the grandson, that’s okay too. Not every opportunity must be pursued simply because it might work. Peace of mind matters. The smartest way forward isn’t to ask, “What if I miss out?” but rather, “Can I maintain healthy boundaries no matter how this unfolds?” If the answer is yes, then perhaps there’s room to be curious. If the answer is no, you have your answer already. Sincerely, Jennifer P.S. One additional thought: some professions have ethical guidelines regarding dual relationships. While a casual introduction isn’t necessarily problematic, I would also encourage you to consider the standards of your workplace and your licensing board. Sometimes the wisest decision isn’t only about dating; it’s about protecting your professional life as well.

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.

JUNE 11, 2026 | The Jewish Home

The Jewish Home | JUNE 11, 2026

ExpEriEncE, rElationships, & a VoicE for thE community Pesach Osina, Candidate for Assembly By susan schwamm

Pesach, you’ve been involved in politics and community work for many years. How did you first get started?

I’ve been involved in politics and community work for about two decades. My first involvement was with the Community Emergency Response Team, or CERT, which was created through UJA, JCCRP, and Community Board 14. At the time there wasn’t a Community Assistance Unit in the Mayor’s Office, so CERT served as a conduit between residents, local organizations, and city agencies. We worked on quality-of-life issues. Whether it was graffiti, school concerns, or neighborhood problems, residents needed someone who could help navigate government and get things done. That experience taught me the importance of relationships. Government doesn’t work because you pick up the phone one day and call the Mayor’s Office. It works because you’ve spent years building trust and working with people.

After CERT, what was your next foray into politics?

My first job in politics was working for Assemblymember Phil Goldfeder as a community liaison focused on the Jewish community. Phil was a mentor to me. He helped rebuild this community after Sandy and taught me what it means to be a bridge builder. As an elected official, you represent everyone, but my role was to be Phil’s eyes and ears in the Jewish commu-

nity and make sure its concerns were heard. After that, I spent time working for Donovan Richards and then I became Queens Director for Comptroller Scott Stringer. For the last several years, I’ve worked for the City Council Speaker as a senior liaison, helping communities navigate government, advocating for funding, and ensuring concerns are addressed.

That’s a lot of work in government and politics. What has that experience taught you? Experience matters because relationships matter.

When people ask how things get done, it’s through years of working together. I’m proud that my campaign for Assembly has earned endorsements from organizations and unions that traditionally haven’t endorsed Orthodox Jewish candidates, including the United Federation of Teachers, public school principals, DC 37, and others. Those endorsements come from years of collaboration and trust. Whether it’s addressing antisemitism in schools, bringing educational programs into classrooms, or helping organizations secure funding, those relationships make a difference.

JUNE 11, 2026 | The Jewish Home

With Assemblywoman Stacey Pheffer Amato

Tell us about the district you will hopefully be representing in the Assembly.

The 23rd Assembly District is one of the most diverse districts in New York. It stretches across the Rockaways and includes Howard Beach, Lindenwood, Ozone Park, and South Ozone Park. People often don’t realize how diverse it is. On one end, you have Far Rockaway. On the other end, you have a large Bengali Muslim community. While the communities may seem different, they share many of the same concerns. Both often feel overlooked by government. Both have had to fight to make sure their voices are heard. One of my strengths is that I’ve built relationships throughout the district. I’ve worked with Jewish, Muslim, Sikh, and many other communities. If you’re going to represent the district, you have to represent everyone.

Have those relationships translated into support? Absolutely. I’ve received endorsements from organizations across the district, including groups within the Bengali community. The diversity of support reflects years of work. These aren’t relationships that were built overnight. They’re relationships developed over decades of showing up, listening, and helping people solve problems.

When you’re knocking on doors, what are people telling you? I’m out door-knocking every day, and people are talking mainly about quality-of-life issues. They’re talking about traffic. They’re talking about speeding, dangerous intersections, and infrastructure concerns. Those things may sound small, but they affect daily life. People are also talking about affordability. I met a woman in her seventies who told me it was the first month she couldn’t pay her rent. People are feeling squeezed by rising costs. Utility bills are up. Gas prices are up. Insurance costs are up. Families are feeling pressure everywhere they turn.

With Councilman Selvena Brooks-Powers

What role can an Assemblymember play in addressing those concerns?

Albany has a significant role because state budgets and state policy affect people’s everyday lives. One example is the tax burden people face on gas prices. We need to look at ways government can provide relief instead of benefiting when prices rise. Another issue is insurance. Families are seeing enormous increases in premiums. That’s something that di-

“my joB would BE to makE surE EVEry community knows somEonE is listEning and adVocating for thEm.”

I believe we need trained individuals within community organizations who understand the reporting process and can help residents navigate it. There should be an agency or organization in each community that has a group dedicated to hate crimes so we can report them and make sure they’re documented and addressed. There are multiple agencies involved, and the process can be confusing. We need to make it easier.

What about crime and bail reform?

I believe bail reform should be reviewed and adjusted where necessary. One issue I support is adding a dangerousness standard similar to what exists in other states. Currently, New York places significant emphasis on whether someone is a flight risk. I believe judges should also be able to consider whether an individual presents a danger to the community when making release decisions. That’s a conversation Albany needs to continue having.

If elected, what committees would interest you?

rectly impacts household budgets, and it’s an issue I’ve already been discussing with current Assemblymembers.

Public safety is another major concern. What are you hearing from residents?

People are concerned about safety. They’re concerned about antisemitism. They’re concerned about hate crimes generally. What’s important to understand is that this isn’t only a Jewish concern. When I speak to members of the Sikh community, they express concerns. When I speak to Muslim women who wear hijabs, they express concerns. People want to know they’ll be safe in their schools, houses of worship, and neighborhoods. One of the biggest challenges is that hate incidents are often under-reported. Many incidents never get classified properly, and people don’t know where to report them.

Education would be very important. Environmental issues are important for the district because flooding remains a major concern throughout parts of the district. I’d also be interested in emergency management and human rights issues. Those areas directly affect our communities and would allow me to advocate on issues that residents discuss every day.

Why do you think this Assembly seat matters so much to the local Jewish community?

This district has a long history of electing people who became strong voices for the community. We’ve had leaders like Stacey Pheffer Amato, Phil Goldfeder, and Audrey Pheffer. These representatives advocated for the community through difficult times, whether it was Sandy recovery, education issues, neighborhood development, or quality-of-life concerns. The community has benefited from having someone who understands its needs and is willing to fight for them.

The Jewish Home | JUNE 11, 2026

With Assemblyman Phil Goldfeder in the aftermath of Superstorm Sandy

For me, this race is about continuing that tradition of advocacy.

What would you say to voters to galvanize them to vote in the primary?

Elections often come down to very small numbers. When I previously ran for another office, I lost by 77 votes. That’s fewer people than you might find in a single building or on a few blocks. Every vote matters. People often assume someone else will vote, but representation only happens when people participate. If voters want their community to continue having a strong voice, they have to make sure they show up.

You talk frequently about relationships. How would you maintain them if elected?

The key is accessibility and showing up. Too often, people feel government only appears during election season. I believe elected officials need to be present year-round. This district has often felt overlooked. Parts of the district look toward Nassau County for shopping and services. Other parts look toward Brooklyn. Sometimes, people feel disconnected from the resources available through city and state government. My job would be to make sure every community knows someone is listening and advocating for them.

You have also spoken about creating neighborhood advisory boards. What would that look like?

I think government should be more proactive. Too often, decisions are made before residents even know they’re being considered. By creating neighborhood advisory boards made up of local leaders and stakeholders, information can flow more quickly between government and the community. When issues arise—whether it’s traffic changes, infrastructure projects, or quality-of-life concerns—residents should have an opportunity to provide input before decisions are finalized.

With former Assemblywoman Audrey Pheffer and Assemblywoman Stacey Pheffer Amato

The goal is making sure people have a voice in the decisions that affect their neighborhoods. For example, what if residents would have been made aware that the DOT was planning on putting up a traffic light on Beach 9 Street? Wouldn’t it have been good if they could respond with their concerns? After that new traffic light went up, we were hearing that people were getting tickets when they made left turns there. Right away, when I heard about it, we reached out to NYPD, who said, “Oh, yeah, it’s on the

“thEy’rE rElationships dEVElopEd oVEr dEcadEs of showing up, listEning, and hElping pEoplE solVE proBlEms.” books.” But we reached out to the DOT Commissioner. It took 36 hours, but we got in writing for anyone that got a ticket, that that left turn was legal to make. We sent that back to the NYPD. Again, NYPD wasn’t happy for me for doing that, but those are NYPD relationships, those are established relationships, that we have, so we can continue fighting for the community. Another example: we heard that a cop was giving tickets to people who were driving down Beach 9 Street during carpool time at Siach Yitzchok and driving over the yellow line. We were able to call up the NYPD, who told us, “Kids are at risk” because these people are driving over the yellow line. We told them that the school has safety officers there and that tickets shouldn’t be given for that infraction because people just need to be able to get by the lines of cars waiting in the carpool lane. They heard us and understood us – again, an example

of established relationships that we have that are there to help the community.

What role do community partnerships play in public safety?

They’re essential. We have strong relationships with law enforcement, but public safety works best when there’s cooperation between police and community organizations. Groups like neighborhood patrols and community organizations have deep relationships with residents. When those partnerships are strong, problems get addressed more quickly and communication improves. Public safety is strongest when everyone is working together.

Development remains a concern for many residents. What is your approach? I support common-sense development. Communities deserve a meaningful voice in decisions that affect their neighborhoods. Residents want growth and investment, but they also want development that respects the character of their communities. I have consistently supported efforts to make sure local voices are heard throughout the planning process, and I will continue advocating for that approach.

In one sentence, why are you running for Assembly?

I’m running because this district deserves an experienced advocate who has spent decades building relationships, solving problems, and fighting to make sure every community has a voice in government. I urge people to come out and vote in this primary. I have numerous endorsements from all across the board. My opponent has three endorsements – from three progressive groups. I have proven myself to voters time and time again that I will advocate for them. We need a voice from this community in Albany – and I would be proud and committed to representing our community. Early voting begins on June 14. Make sure you get to the polls – the earlier, the better.

JUNE 11, 2026 | The Jewish Home

The Jewish Home | JUNE 11, 2026

Shmooze & Muse

Am I in the Right Line? By Mordechai Schmutter

f you haven’t yet, you should get a Real ID. And you’re like, “But I already have an ID.” Yes, but this is a Real ID. From what I’ve read, “A Real ID card allows you to board domestic flights, enter secure federal buildings, and visit nuclear power plants,” though I’m pretty sure doing two of those would get you tackled anyway. But you can use it to fly. Turns out you can’t fly domestically without a Real ID, unless you have a passport. Which is easier to get. But I mean, once you get it, it’s more convenient than a passport. For one, it’s easier to carry. You don’t want to have to schelp the whole big passport into the nuclear power plant with you every single time you go. Who’s gonna hold it when you put on the hazmat suit? And on top of that, with a passport, you have to find the page that has your picture on it, which, thanks to sophisticated passport technology, is always moving to a different page, like bentching does in bentchers. A lot of people are nervous about going to the DMV. But I’m here to tell you that there’s nothing to worry about, because no one there has any more of an idea of what they’re doing than you do. I’m uniquely qualified to talk about this because I went twice. I went a few

months ago because I had to renew my license anyway, so I figured I should get a Real ID, and then after waiting on the third line, they refused me because I didn’t have the right papers. Well, I had some of the right papers. But I still had to keep waiting on all the lines so I could renew my regular license, because I had enough papers for that, apparently, and pay the fees, and then come back when I was willing to stand in lines again and pay more fees. So I don’t know how it works everywhere, but I can tell you how it works in my corner of NJ, in the DMV that I’ve been to twice. - First you need to make an appointment. But it’s not like a doctor’s appointment. It’s more like the doctor said, “A hundred people can come at the same time. But not 101. We can’t handle 101.” - You should also use your powers of persuasiveness to get someone else that you know to make an appointment for the same time, so you have someone to wait with. Sell them on the benefits of Real ID. “You’ll be able to visit federal buildings!” “Like what?” “The Capitol? I don’t know.” - For example, when I went this second time, I brought along my emotional support daughter. As my oldest, this daughter is no stranger to me venting in

her general direction. -You also want to make sure you bring all the right papers and that they’re yours. Every paper is worth a certain number of “points,” which I think it how they try to make it fun. But I’m not sure they know how points work. - You need six points. A birth certificate is four and a passport is four, so you think, “That’s 8; it should be enough.” No, they only want one of those documents. You have to then supplement it with two things that are worth one point each. - You also can’t just present the passport and be done with it. If Real ID helps you fly domestically, and a passport helps you fly internationally and domestically, shouldn’t the passport alone be enough? Yet the passport’s only four points. You also can’t just show them a license, which has your picture and your address, and to get it, you needed six points. It should be worth six points! And these are the very people who gave it to you! It’s worth one point. - The first line you have to wait in when you get there is the line of people coming in the door of the building. This is an unofficial line in which people walk into the building one at a time and stop in the doorway to take stock of the room, like a car wreck, and try to figure out which of the crisscrossing lines to wait on first. There are people everywhere. Some

are sitting down. Are they in line? Have they given up? There’s a screen coming down from the ceiling with what appears to be flight numbers. There are also numbers being yelled across the room on a PA, first in English and then again in Spanish, but more slowly, so that people can translate them back into English in their heads. - Turns out there’s actually a sign that tells people where to go. They have to go to reception. This sign is stuck to the reception desk, at about waist high, and is almost always blocked by someone who’s waiting in line. - Get in line for reception. Some people will ask you, “Is this the line?” and you’ll say, “I think so,” and they’ll get behind you. Then you’ll see a DMV employee walking around and telling the people who come in that they have to fill out a form before standing in line. You missed that person earlier, because of all the people in the way and the fact that this person is shorter than everyone around them and also not wearing any kind of uniform. “Oh, he’s holding a stack of papers!” Yeah, everyone’s holding a stack of papers. - So he gives you a form, and you have to leave the line and fill it out. You can’t just fill it out in line on the back of your emotional support daughter. - If you ask the guy for a pen, he’ll gesture vaguely at these three desks on the

97 maybe people would be passing papers through it, so she can make sure they’re all originals and count your points and tell you if you have enough. -The previous time that I did this, I did not – enough papers, that is. I didn’t have enough proofs of address. I just had a credit card statement and also my license which has my address on it and my picture. That was not enough. Just enough to get a regular license.

some point, the woman told me, “That’s enough. I have what I need.” And I’m like, “Really?” because I was still holding the utility bill and the bank statement. And she said, “Yeah; we’re good.” - Boy, did my emotional support daughter get an earful, once she rejoined me from her window. -For your next wait, you get to sit down on one of the chairs while newcomers climb over you in the search for

You can’t just fill it out in line on the back of your emotional support daughter.

- They didn’t like the credit card statement. The mail has to be from a bank or a utility company. Even though the utility company sometimes just writes “resident.” - So this time, I came with not only another credit card bill, which I didn’t want to bring but my wife put it in my folder, but also a utility bill and a bank statement. I fed the papers through the tiny slot one at a time, and then at

pens, and then they stand between you and the screens that you have to stare at as you wait for your number to be called on the PA system that you have long since blocked out. - You finally get to go to the nostrador, which is not as exciting as it sounds. This is where they make photocopies of all the originals that you absolutely had to bring. They also take a picture of you and ask if

it’s okay, and I always say it is, because I have to take off my glasses for the picture and then put them on to see it, and no one is going to see this picture anyway except for the cops and airport security and the guard at the nuclear power plant, and when they look back at me I’m going to be wearing glasses. -Then they give you a flimsy piece of paper and say, “This is your license until the new one comes.” And you say, “Yeah, but I already have a license.” “Oh, you can use that, too.” - And then they say, “Hey! You want to register to vote while you’re here?” Now? There’s no other way to register to vote besides for after waiting on four lines at the DMV? What I want to do, ASAP, is stop at one of the three desks and reorganize my stack and make sure my license is somewhere in there. Though I guess I can use this temporary license. I wonder if I can fly with it.

Mordechai Schmutter is a freelance writer and a humor columnist for Hamodia and other magazines. He has also published eight books and does stand-up comedy. He can be contacted at mschmutter@gmail.com.

JUNE 11, 2026 | The Jewish Home

other side of the sitting area that each has a person there already, leaning down to waist height and filling out a form with a loaner pen, which is just like a regular pen, but it’s wrapped in a piece of construction paper so no one will steal it. - Get in line for reception (again). You can now pull out whatever you brought along to do while on line, such as a tiny sefer, but you will not be able to focus on it, because of the constant announcements: “A175 to window seven!” Then, “A175 to window seven, but in Spanish!” It’s a good way to learn Spanish, or at least how to say all the numbers. And also the word “nostrador” which is a super distracting word. And they say it a lot. What’s a nostrador? It sounds mysterious and fun. So I later looked it up, and it means “counter.” - When you get to the front of the line, the receptionist checks a list to make sure you have an appointment, and gestures vaguely at the correct line for you to wait at, and mumbles something through the glass at a lower volume than the announcements. - Get in line. This line will take you to a window where you can feed a woman papers through a tiny slot in the glass that was not built by people who thought that

The Jewish Home | JUNE 11, 2026

Parenting Pearls

From Lunchboxes to Lemonade By Sara Rayvych, MSEd

t’s hard to not notice we are reaching the end of the school year. Kids who ignore the calendar year-round are counting down the days, and parents are finding it harder each night to get kids motivated in their homework. Pretty soon, kids will be home for the summer with their backpacks – hopefully few unpleasant moldy food items will be present. This is a busy time of year, and there are many details to finalize before the year is complete. Many students will have finals. Our graduates will experience the bittersweet moment that brings them into the next phase of their lives. After working so hard all year, the kids will be looking forward to some time to unwind and have fun. All of this happens as parents have to prepare their children for the upcoming summer schedule. Summer has its own rhythm that is very different from the school year. We associate those warm months as a time to relax and have fun. It’s a time for adventure and a slower pace. It’s a refreshing break from the colder months and the more regimented structure of the rest of the year.

Time to Unwind Kids work hard all year – as do their overwhelmed parents. It’s only natural that students will be eager to kick back and relax a bit after the last bell has rung. Parents should expect this and it’s an excellent time for parents to join in, as their schedule permits. Kids benefit from time to play, run and do their own activities. With so many distractions – especially from technology – kids don’t get as much time as they need to just be kids. Running on the grass, hanging out with friends, and coloring are all things we enjoyed as children but are less available and appreciated today. Kids require a balance of structured and unstructured time. The exact balance is different for each child. Structured time

provides a framework and stability to their day. It also ensures the important things get done (davening, meals, sleep, etc.). Unstructured play allows children to explore their interests while learning to entertain themselves. It also affords children the opportunity to learn how to be with the individual who they will spend the most time with – themselves. All children – teens especially – require time with their friends. Prearranged playdates or impromptu games with neighbors can all provide a child with healthy peer interactions. This is also an excellent opportunity for families to connect together.

Graduates Many of our community’s children will be graduating this year, closing the door on one part of their life as they move into the next. This is an exciting milestone that can come with deep emotions. They may be leaving behind their friends and the building that has become so familiar to them. The teachers they recognize and the rhythm they have become accustomed to will also change. They may also be nervous looking to the future and the adjustments next year will bring. Parents can validate their child’s feelings and respect the difficulty their child is experiencing during this transition period.

Looking Forward As much as we hope each child had their year to shine, the unfortunate reality is that many students will have struggled during part – or all – of this previous school year. It’s painful, draining and devastating for a child’s self-confidence when they fail in school. Yes, there are children who don’t work hard enough and that can be addressed, but there are too many children who try their hardest – and who may eventually just give up – because they never see results despite their gargantuan efforts. We

should praise children when they try their best, recognizing their efforts regardless of the results. Validating a child’s feelings and being sensitive to their frustrations can help let them know we’re supporting them. As this year closes, it’s a perfect time to see what can be done to help these children go into the next year ready for success. This year’s teacher who knows your child well will be more equipped to provide guidance than waiting until September when there’s a new person in front of the classroom. We don’t want to deny children the relaxation that comes with summer. They worked hard, and they will need the outlet. Still, there are ways to wisely utilize the summer months so children will walk into the next year stronger. It’s natural for a child to walk into September remembering less than they did the previous June. The teachers know this and incorporate any necessary review into their lessons. Some children will lose more than their peers and will be ill-prepared after the summer’s regression. These children in particular may benefit from reviewing and keeping up with their summer work.

Summer Prep As we exit the school year, we are entering the summer months. It’s shocking how much needs to be done in preparation for a two-month period. Bathing suits and goggles. Loose cotton shirts and sunscreen. The Fahrenheit has surged higher, and kids will run outside without thinking first. Water bottles only work if kids actually fill them up and remember to sip regularly. Parents should make sure their child is staying sufficiently hydrated. As much as drinking water is necessary

for survival, pooled water has risks. Young children should always be supervised around small kiddie pools. Water should be drained afterwards or otherwise be kept inaccessible to curious youngsters. Drowning is nothing as it appears in movies or any other medium. The person isn’t screaming or begging for help; it’s disturbingly silent. Everyone should familiarize themselves with the accurate signs of drowning. Lifeguards are specifically trained in recognizing and saving someone who is drowning, chas v’shalom. Make sure your child is being appropriately supervised whenever they’re in a pool and that the area is properly staffed by certified lifeguards. Helmets (and other padding) are important whenever kids are biking, scootering or rollerblading. Black hats work nicely for davening, but they do not replace a helmet. I see many children wearing helmets that are either unstrapped or closed so loosely that the helmet is falling down their back. The straps should be tightly secured and well fitted to the child’s head. I want to wish our community’s children a wonderful end to this school year. It’s a time for reflection and appreciation for all that was accomplished over the past ten months.

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.

School of

Thought

JUNE 11, 2026 | The Jewish Home

By Etti Siegel

ear Readers, As another school year comes to a close, I find myself reflecting on what I have seen as I traveled from school to school, classroom to classroom, and spoke with parents, teachers, principals, and students throughout the year. One of the greatest gifts of my work is the opportunity to visit so many schools. Every school has its own personality. There are different traditions, different approaches, different strengths, and sometimes different challenges. Yet the longer I do this work, the more I realize how much we all have in common. Everywhere I go, I meet people who care deeply about children. As I thought about what I wanted to say this year, I kept coming back to one idea. Most of the important things that happen in schools are not dramatic. They happen because people come back the next day and do the work again. A teacher reteaches a lesson. A parent has another conversation. A principal addresses another concern. A student tries again after getting something wrong. The small things add up. We often celebrate the big moments like graduation, the award, the excellent report card, the performance, the accomplishment. But most growth happens one day at a time, one lesson at a time, one conversation at a time. Throughout this year, many of the letters sent to this column focused on challenges. Some were about friendships. Others were about learning struggles about motivation, anxiety, behavior, school policies, parenting decisions, or communication between home and school. What struck me was that beneath every letter was the same thing: people who care. Parents who want to do right by their children. Teachers who want to reach their students. Administrators who want to create schools where children can thrive. After all these years in education, I still find that encouraging. We hear a great deal about what is wrong with education. Certainly, there is room for improvement. There always has been and there always will be. But when I walk into classrooms, I see so much that is right. I see teachers greeting children warmly at the door. I see classrooms where students are encouraged to think, question, discuss, and participate. I see educators who spend their own time searching for better ways to teach. I see principals who know the names of hundreds of students and genuinely care about them. Most of all, I see relationships. People often assume that because I come into schools

as a coach, I am there to teach. While The Shabbos table becomes even that is certainly part of my role, the more important during the summer Most growth truth is that I leave almost every months. There is more time for conschool every day having learned versation, storytelling, singing, and happens one something. Sometimes, it’s a new sharing ideas. Some of the most day at a time, strategy. Sometimes, it’s a different meaningful lessons children learn perspective. Sometimes, it’s simply a will never appear on a report card. one lesson at reminder about patience, flexibility, Thank you for another year a time, one or seeing a child through a different of letters, emails, questions, dislens. The longer I work in education, agreements, ideas, and conversaconversation the more I realize that the best edtions. Some of your letters sent me digging through research articles. ucators never stop being learners at a time. Some made me rethink my own asthemselves. sumptions. Some simply reminded Some of my favorite moments me that parents and educators are this year were watching teachers try something new, getting the inside scoop on how a principal often struggling with the same concerns from different solved a problem creatively, or hearing a parent share an sides of the desk. insight about their child that changed the way I viewed a To the teachers who welcomed me into your classsituation. Education works best when all of us remain open rooms, thank you. You have taught me far more than to learning from one another. you realize. Research continues to tell us what good educators have To the principals who opened their doors and trustknown all along: children learn best when they feel safe, ed me to work with your staff, thank you for your partvalued, and connected. Long after students forget the de- nership, your friendship, and your commitment to your tails of a lesson, they remember the people who believed schools and communities. in them. To the parents who stopped me in a supermarket, at a Many adults can still tell you the name of a teacher who simcha, in a school hallway, or sent an email after readchanged their life. Very few can remember what workbook ing a column, thank you for caring enough to continue they used. the conversation. As we head into summer, I hope we all give ourselves And to the students, who are ultimately the reason permission to slow down a little. for all of this, thank you for reminding us every day that Children need a break. growth is possible. Teachers need a break. Enjoy the slower pace of summer, because before we Parents need a break. know it, we’ll be buying notebooks, labeling supplies, and Summer doesn’t have to look like school to be valuable. starting all over again. Children learn a great deal from helping in the kitchen, Have a wonderful, restful, and meaningful summer. planning a trip, reading a book they chose themselves, Feel free to keep sending in letters and questions. I look spending time with grandparents, building something, forward to reconnecting with you in the fall, iy”H. creating something, or even just having long conversations around the table. Warmly, The learning may look different, but it is still learning. Etti

Mrs. Etti Siegel holds a MS in Teaching and Learning/Educational Leadership and brings sound teaching advice to her audiences culled from her over 35 years of teaching and administrative experience. Etti is an Adjunct at the College of Mount Saint Vincent/Sara Shenirer. She is a coach and educational consultant for Catapult Learning, FACTS Education Solutions, Brienza Academic Advantage, Yeled V’Yalda; is a sought-after mentor and workshop presenter around the country; and a popular presenter for Sayan (a teacher-mentoring program), Hidden Sparks, and the Consortium of Jewish Day Schools. She is a frequent contributor to Hamechanech magazine and The Journal for Jewish Day School Leaders and has a weekly column in The Jewish Home. She can be contacted for questions and comments at ettisiegel@gmail.com.

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Health & F tness

What Your Psychiatric Provider Wishes You Knew By Rivka Kramer, PMHNP-BC

energy, your joy, your ability to parent, work, connect, or recognize yourself. You do not need to completely fall apart before asking for help.

sychiatry is a strange field to work in because very little exists in absolutes. We sit with people during some of the hardest moments of their lives while trying to answer questions that rarely have clean answers. Is this depression or grief? Is this anxiety or a nervous system responding appropriately to an overwhelming life? Is this ADHD, burnout, sleep deprivation, trauma, hormones, or some combination of all of the above? If there is one thing many psychiatry providers wish patients understood, it is that psychiatry is rarely about reducing people into diagnoses or checklists. More often, it is about understanding context. Symptoms matter, but symptoms divorced from a person’s life story only tell part of the story. The reality is that we are humans first. Patients second. Diagnoses third.

Before the Diagnosis, There is a Person People often walk into appointments feeling like they need to present themselves in a certain way. Some spend days organizing symptoms into categories beforehand because they are afraid of forgetting something important. Others minimize everything because they worry about sounding dramatic. Many apologize for crying, for rambling, for not having the right words, or for feeling like they are wasting time. Most providers are not looking for a perfect presentation. We are looking for your experience. Human beings are complicated. You can function perfectly at work and completely unravel once you get home. You can deeply love your children and still feel touched out and overwhelmed. You can be successful, highly achieving, and outwardly composed while privately feeling exhausted, numb, or barely held together. Contradictions are not evidence that something is wrong with you.

Asking About Things That Seem Unrelated

They are evidence that you are human.

When Life Hurts, That Does Not Always Mean Something Is Wrong One of the hardest truths in mental health is that not everything painful is pathology. Sometimes, life hurts because life is genuinely hard. Losing people hurts. Parenting is exhausting. Pregnancy and postpartum can completely reorganize your body, brain, identity, and relationships. Marriage can feel lonely. Caregiving can feel relentless. Financial stress, chronic illness, infertility, career transitions, trauma, and uncertainty all leave fingerprints on the nervous system. Modern conversations around mental health have helped reduce stigma, which is incredibly important, but they have also unintentionally created another problem: people sometimes begin to assume every difficult emotion must belong to a diagnosis. It does not.

Sometimes you are not anxious because you have an anxiety disorder. Sometimes your life is objectively overwhelming. Sometimes you are not depressed in the psychiatric sense. You are profoundly exhausted, isolated, grieving, or carrying too much for too long.

One thing that surprises many people is how often psychiatric appointments involve questions that initially seem unrelated to mental health. Providers ask about sleep, hormones, trauma history, pregnancy experiences, family dynamics, caffeine intake, social media habits, exercise, medical problems, relationships, and childhood experiences because brains do not exist separately from lives. Sleep deprivation can mimic psychiatric illness. Hormonal changes can mimic psychiatric illness. Trauma can mimic psychiatric illness. Medical conditions can mimic psychiatric illness. Burnout can mimic psychiatric illness. And sometimes psychiatric illness exists underneath all of those layers at the same time. Good psychiatry often feels less like matching symptoms to a diagnosis and more like detective work.

Waiting Too Long for Help

Medication is a Tool, Not a Moral Decision

At the same time, the opposite mistake happens constantly. People minimize symptoms because they believe they should simply push through them. Patients often wait months or years before seeking help because they tell themselves that everyone struggles, that other people have it worse, or that they should be stronger. Psychiatric providers hear this every day. The truth is that suffering does not need to become catastrophic before it deserves attention. Symptoms matter when they begin stealing pieces of your functioning, your relationships, your

Few topics carry more emotional weight than medication. Some patients walk into appointments hoping medication will finally give them relief. Others walk in terrified that needing medication means they have somehow failed. Neither perspective tells the full story. Medication is a tool. Sometimes it changes lives dramatically. Sometimes it provides modest improvement. Sometimes it causes side effects that require adjustments. Sometimes finding the right medication takes time and patience. Sometimes medication is central to treatment, and oftentimes, it is only one piece of a much larger picture.

101 We Notice More Than You Think We Do

Recovery Rarely Looks the Way People Expect Another thing providers wish patients knew is that progress in mental health treatment is rarely linear. Recovery is often imagined as a clean upward trajectory where treatment starts, symptoms improve, and life quickly returns to normal. In reality, improvement usually happens in smaller, less dramatic ways. Maybe sleep improves first. Then concentration returns. Then you realize you have a little more patience with your children. Then there is a setback.

Your Appointment is Not a Test Mental health treatment works better when patients understand that appointments are not tests. There is no

The Goal Was Never to Feel Happy All the Time Perhaps one of the biggest misconceptions about psychiatry is that the goal is happiness at all times. We experience pockets of happiness. Human beings are supposed to experience disappointment, grief, frustration, stress, uncertainty, anger, joy, excite-

You do not need to completely fall apart before asking for help.

reward for appearing more put together than you feel. Providers generally want honesty more than perfection. We want to know if medications are being skipped, if therapy feels unhelpful, if side effects are miserable, if motivation disappeared, or if recommendations simply are not realistic in the context of your life. Real treatment plans require real information.

NEW PATIENTS ONLY

ment, and sadness. The goal is usually something more sustainable: flexibility, resilience, functioning, connection, and the ability to experience difficult emotions without being completely consumed by them.

Living in the Gray Areas Psychiatry exists in nuance because people exist in nuance. You can have real symptoms while

also responding normally to difficult circumstances. You can be grateful and depressed. High functioning and struggling. Successful and anxious. A loving parent and completely overwhelmed. You can need medication and lifestyle changes. Therapy and biology. Boundaries and support. You are not simply a diagnosis, but you are also not entirely separate from your biology. You are not merely a passenger in this complicated experience called life, but you are not fully in control of every wave that reaches you either. Most of psychiatric care exists somewhere in the middle, helping people learn the difference and helping them find themselves again somewhere along the way.

Rivka Kramer is a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. She has a psychiatric private practice based in Cedarhurst, NY. She serves as a member of the board of JANPPA, the Jewish American Nurse Practitioner Psychiatric Association. She can be reached at 917-905-3995.

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Providers notice when someone laughs while describing something painful. We notice when people repeatedly call their suffering stupid before sharing it. We notice when someone insists everything is fine while looking profoundly exhausted. We notice when people quickly change subjects after brushing up against something difficult. Not because we are analyzing every movement, but because shame often speaks louder than symptoms.

Then things stabilize again. Often progress feels so gradual that people miss it while it is happening.

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Health & F tness

Preparing for Summer Part 2: Hydrating is “Cool” By Hylton I. Lightman, MD, DCH (SA), FAAP

arenting and Mommy chats are replete with messages to hydrate their kids. Let’s start with the why hydrating is important. Proper hydration is a cornerstone of health, especially for growing children. It regulates a child’s body temperature. Because of their smaller body size and higher metabolic rates, children are more susceptible to heat-related illnesses than we adults. Also, children may not recognize when they are thirsty. Playing outside in the warm weather comes hand-in-hand with sweating. Water is lost through sweating. If kids are not drinking enough fluids, their bodies can struggle to cool down, which can lead to heat exhaustion or heat stroke. Further, water is essential for proper digestion as it aids in breaking down food and helps to absorb essential nutrients. Children’s bodies require sufficient fluids when eating to help transport nutrients through their digestive system. If a child is even slightly dehydrated, he may experience constipation, indigestion, or stomach cramps. Hydration is crucial for maintaining cognitive function and mental perfor-

mance. In addition to having more energy for learning and playing, hydration supports physical activity, a huge part of summer fun. It keeps at bay fatigue, muscle cramps and dizziness.

Recommended daily water intake for children • Toddlers (1-3 years old): Approximately 4 cups (1 liter) per day. Milk provides significant hydration at this stage. • School age children (4-8 years old): About 5 cups (1.5 liters) per day. The amount should increase with increased physical activity, especially during the hot weather. • Teenagers (9-18 years old): Approximately 7-8 cups (1.6-2 liters) per day as a baseline. Their bodies become larger and physical activity is more intense. Hot weather compounds the need for hydration.

Factors affecting need for water intake • Activity levels. Even swimming in a pool requires proper hydration. • Weather environment such as heat and humidity.

• Illness or health condition can be dehydrating. • Foods with salt or sugar can be dehydrating. Encourage high-water content foods like fruits and vegetables.

How to know if your child is dehydrated or becoming dehydrated • Note if your child is asking for water more frequently. • Dry mouth and lips • Fatigue or dizziness • Irritability or fussiness • Sunken eyes or fontanel (for infants) – this requires immediate medical attention. • Dry skin or cool, clammy skin • Lack of tears when crying Getting kids to drink isn’t always fun. But strategically making it fun can hopefully engage kids in laying the foundation for a lifetime of good habits. • Custom-decorated reusable bottles. • Silly curly straws • Flavoring drinks with frozen fruit • Blending fruit in blenders (under parent’s supervision) and then pouring into popsicle molds and freezing

• Seltzer slushies • Encouraging kids to become “scientists” by choosing and dropping fruit slices (think strawberries, blueberries, oranges or cucumbers) and fresh mint into water pitchers. • Fashioning a visual chart for hydration where kids can place a sticker or checkmark every time they finish a full glass. • Create family “l’chaim” moments. Have everyone stop what they’re doing at set intervals throughout the day for a fun, synchronous family “l’chaim” of fruit-flavored water. Prevention is the best form of medicine. Stay ahead of things by keeping your loved ones hydrated. As always, daven.

Dr. Hylton Lightman MD DCH(SA) FAAP is a board-certified pediatrician and the Medical Director of Suffolk Health Five Towns. He adores his patients and tolerates their parents. His life’s mission is to deliver quality health care to babies, children, teenagers and young adults so they bring their children and grandchildren (and great-grandchildren) to him. He loves what he does.

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Home Sweet Home

How Much House Can You Really Afford? By Eli Sklar

ne of the most common questions I get from prospective homebuyers is simple: “How much can I qualify for?” Sometimes, it’s asked a little differently. “I found the house I want. Can I afford it?” Or: “I need my monthly payment to stay under a certain number. What price range should I be looking at?” No matter how the question is asked, the goal is always the same. People want to know what’s realistic before they start shopping for a home or fall in love with a property that may not fit their budget. The good news is that determining how much home you can afford is usually more straightforward than people think. While every borrower has a unique financial picture, lenders generally follow the same process when evaluating qualification.

Starting With the Purchase Price Let’s walk through a real-world example. Suppose you’re looking at a home priced

at $1 million. You have 25% available for a down payment, which means you’ll put down $250,000 and finance the remaining $750,000. One of the quick calculations I use when speaking with clients is estimating the monthly principal and interest payment. As a general rule of thumb, I estimate roughly $650 per month for every $100,000 borrowed. Interest rates change over time, so this isn’t meant to be exact, but it provides a helpful starting point. For a $750,000 mortgage, that estimate comes out to approximately $4,875 per month. At first glance, many buyers assume that’s their mortgage payment. In reality, that’s only part of the picture.

The Costs Most Buyers Forget Property taxes and homeowners insurance also need to be factored in. Depending on the location and value of the property, these costs can vary significantly. For this example, let’s estimate taxes and insurance at $1,500 per month. Now the monthly housing payment

looks like this: Principal and Interest: $4,875 Taxes and Insurance: $1,500 Total Housing Payment: $6,375 This is the number lenders focus on when evaluating affordability. But we’re not done yet. Most borrowers also have other monthly obligations. These can include car leases, student loans, credit card minimum payments, personal loans, or other recurring debts. Let’s assume our borrower has the following: Car Lease: $600 Student Loans: $200 Credit Cards: $200 Total Monthly Debt: $1,000 When we add those obligations to the housing payment, we get total monthly obligations of approximately $7,375.

How Banks Actually Calculate Qualification Now we can begin evaluating whether the borrower qualifies. Let’s assume the borrower earns $20,000 per month, or $240,000 per year.

Most lenders evaluate qualification using two important ratios. The first is the housing ratio, sometimes called the front-end ratio. This compares the monthly housing payment to the borrower’s gross monthly income. Many loan programs allow borrowers to go up to approximately 45%. Using our example: $20,000 × 45% = $9,000 This means the borrower can generally support a housing payment of approximately $9,000 per month. The second ratio is the total debt-to-income ratio, often referred to as the backend ratio. This includes both the housing payment and all other recurring monthly obligations. Many programs allow this ratio to reach approximately 49.9%. Using our example: $20,000 × 49.9% = $9,980 This means the borrower’s total monthly obligations should generally remain below approximately $9,980 per month.

So Would This Borrower Qualify? Let’s compare the numbers.

105 begin the conversation by asking how much they qualify for. Instead, they tell me what monthly payment they’re comfortable with. They’ll say something like: “I don’t want my payment to be more than $6,000 per month.” Or: “I want to make sure I still have room in my budget for vacations, retirement savings, and my children’s activities.” I actually like approaching things this way. Just because a lender approves you for a certain amount doesn’t necessarily mean that’s the amount you should borrow.

Determining how much home you can afford is usually more straightforward than people think.

ment history, assets, and other underwriting requirements are met. This is why understanding the numbers is so important. Many buyers either underestimate or overestimate what they can afford. Running the calculations allows us to replace assumptions with real answers.

Why Two People With the Same Income Can Qualify for Different Homes Another misconception I see regularly is the belief that income alone determines qualification. It doesn’t. Let’s imagine two borrowers who each earn $240,000 per year. Borrower A has no student loans, no auto payments, and pays off credit cards every month. Borrower B has a large car lease, student loans, and several monthly debt obligations. Even though both borrowers earn exactly the same income, Borrower A will typically qualify for a larger mortgage because they have fewer recurring obligations. Income is certainly important, but it is only one piece of the puzzle. Your down payment, credit profile, debt obligations, and overall financial picture all play a role in determining how much home you can comfortably afford.

The Better Question Interestingly, many of my clients don’t

The goal isn’t simply getting approved. The goal is creating a mortgage payment that works comfortably within your lifestyle and long-term financial goals.

The Bottom Line At the end of the day, buying a home is one of the largest financial decisions most people will ever make. Understanding what you qualify for isn’t just about obtaining a mortgage approval. It’s about understanding what fits comfortably within your financial goals and lifestyle. The process starts with a few simple questions: • How much income do you earn? • How much debt do you currently have? • How much are you planning to put down? • What monthly payment feels comfortable for you? Once those questions are answered, we can build a strategy around your goals and determine what’s possible. Sometimes, you’ll discover you’re ready today. Sometimes, you’ll discover a few adjustments can put you in a stronger position tomorrow. Either way, having the right information allows you to make smarter decisions and move forward with confidence. And that’s really what the mortgage process should be all about.

JUNE 11, 2026 | The Jewish Home

Housing Payment: $6,375 Maximum Housing Payment Allowed: $9,000 Total Monthly Obligations: $7,375 Maximum Total Obligations Allowed: $9,980 In this example, the borrower comfortably falls within both lending guidelines. The housing payment is well below the allowable housing ratio, and the combined housing and revolving debt obligations remain below the maximum debt-to-income threshold. Based on these numbers, the borrower would generally qualify for this transaction, assuming the credit profile, employ-

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AI, Going

Up?

The Smartest People in the Room By Dov Pavel

ou are about to make a significant business decision. Before you commit, you sit down with four people. Warren Buffett wants to know if the numbers actually work and whether you are solving a real problem or a theoretical one. Steve Jobs has strong opinions about your positioning and thinks your instincts are muddled. Jeff Bezos keeps steering the conversation back to the customer and wants to know if you have actually talked to one recently. Mark Cuban, who has sat across from a thousand pitches better than yours, is already looking for the reason to say no. You leave the meeting with your idea pressure-tested by four of the most demanding minds in business. That conversation is available to you now. No introductions required.

A Different Kind of Prompt Most conversations about AI prompting focus on phrasing. Choose the right words, add enough context, and you get a better answer. Most people stop there. The next step is less about phrasing and more about who you invite into the conversation. Before you ask your question, tell the AI which persona to adopt. You are assembling a room of perspectives that would otherwise cost a fortune, take weeks to schedule, or simply do not exist in your network. A room where every voice has a different stake, a different blind spot, and a different reason to push back. Unlike many real world meetings, nobody in this virtual room is being diplomatic because they have to be.

The Business Side of the Room A small business owner preparing to launch a new service might open a conversation this way: “You are Warren Buffett, focused on whether this business model actually makes money. You

Or simply: “I need to renegotiate my lease with a landlord who knows I have been here for seven years and is unlikely to want to lose me. What leverage do I actually have, and give me the exact opening sentence I should use when I bring this up.” These are not Google searches. They are strategy sessions.

The Move Beneath the Move

are a skeptical first-time customer who has never heard of this company. A marketing strategist who thinks most small businesses dramatically underprice their work. I am about to launch the following offering. Each of you should tell me what concerns you most.” The responses will not all agree. That is the point. Or try this before any significant commitment: “Assume this idea failed completely. It is eighteen months from now. Walk me through the three most likely reasons it did not work.” This technique is called a pre-mortem, and it is used regularly by experienced strategists and almost nobody else. AI makes it available to any business owner willing to ask an uncomfortable question before the money is spent.

The Personal Side of the Room The same logic transfers directly to life outside the office. A parent facing a difficult moment with a teenager might prompt: “You are Dr. Sarah Bloom, a child psychologist who believes in collaborative prob-

lem-solving. You are a parent of four who holds firm on accountability and thinks teenagers need structure more than understanding. You are a high school guidance counselor who has seen this exact situation from the other side many times. My 16-year-old just told me he wants to quit the team he has played on for six years. Each of you tell me how to handle the conversation tonight.” Three genuinely different frameworks, ready before you knock on your child’s door.

One Role Is Enough The multi-perspective setup is the most vivid illustration, but you do not always need a full panel. “Write a press release dated two years from now announcing that my business just achieved a goal I am currently working toward. Make it specific enough to be believable. Then tell me what would have had to happen in the previous 24 months to make it real.” That single prompt produces a strategic conversation most business owners never have with anyone.

What all of this has in common is not a prompting technique. It is a different understanding of what AI actually is. Not a search engine with better vocabulary. Not a writing assistant that cleans up your sentences. A thinking environment you can configure for whatever the moment requires. The advisory board you cannot afford. The Chief of Staff you have never been able to justify hiring. The parenting expert available at 11 p.m. The devil’s advocate with no agenda. The calm voice you need before you hit send on something you cannot take back. Access to mentors and business leaders who challenge and guide you has always been the privilege of too few people. Good company or expensive advisors are no longer the constraint. From here on, the smartest people in the room are the ones who know which personas to assemble and how to put them to work. See you in two weeks. Have a topic you would like me to cover? I would love to hear from you.

Dov is a partner at Bond-Bridge Consultants, a firm dedicated to helping small businesses navigate and implement AI solutions. He writes about AI with a focus on practical application for everyday users and organizations. He can be reached at Dov@Bond-Bridge.com. Previous columns are available at GoingUpWithAI.Substack.com.

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In The K tchen

Korean Noodles Servings: 4

By Naomi Nachman

I a m so excited to share that I will be heading to Japan and Korea to work on a kosher cruise with Kosher River Cruises, where I’ ll be doing live cooking demonstrations — and this recipe is one I’ ll be teaching on board! These super flavorful Korean noodles are incredibly easy to make, with a bold gochujang sauce and a kosher twist: surimi in place of the traditional fish cakes. You can skip the surimi too — either way, this dish is a keeper! Ingredients

• 1 container Gefen noodles (flavor packets discarded)

Cook the noodles: Prepare the noodles according to package directions, discarding the flavor packets. Drain and set aside.

• 1 medium onion, sliced

Sauté the onion: Preheat a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat until well

• 1 bag shredded cabbage

heated. Add 2 tablespoons canola oil and sauté the 1 medium onion, sliced until

• 4 scallions, finely chopped

softened.

• 4 surimi sticks, shredded

Cook the cabbage: Add1 bag shredded cabbage and stir-fry until it softens.

• 2 tablespoons canola oil

Add the noodles, surimi, and the prepared sauce. Toss and stir everything together

• 1 teaspoon toasted sesame seeds, to garnish

until well coated. Reduce the heat to low and add the four scallions, finely chopped. Stir quickly until

Sauce

everything is evenly coated. Plate and garnish with 1 teaspoon toasted sesame seeds.

• 2 tablespoons Korean chili paste (Gochujang) • 2 tablespoons sugar • ½ teaspoon Korean chili powder (Gochugaru), adjust to your spice preference • 2 garlic cloves, minced • 1/3 cup water

Notes: Kosher tip: Gochujang is available at Gourmet Glatt. Gochugaru can be found on Amazon. Surimi: This is a great kosher substitute for the traditional fish cakes used in Korean tteokbokki-style noodle dishes. Feel free to omit entirely for a pareve vege-

Preparation

tarian version.

powder, garlic, and water. Stir well to combine and set aside.

spice preference. Add more Gochugaru for extra kick.

Make the sauce: In a small bowl, mix Korean chili paste, sugar, Korean chili

Heat level: Gochujang brings a deep, fermented heat — adjust the amount to your

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.

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Notable Quotes “Say What?!”

Exchange between Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent and Rep. Judy Chu (D-Calif.) at a Congressional hearing

CHU: Sec. Bessent, do you agree with Pres. Trump that you don’t care about Americans’ financial situation. BESSENT: Congresswoman, who was the president during World War I? CHU: Are you refusing to answer my question? BESSENT: No, who was the president during World War I? CHU: I don’t know. Many prominent Democrats are avoiding answering questions when it comes to answering questions about Graham Platner. AOC said, “I have to read up on him.” Elizabeth Warren said, “I haven’t read up on him.” And, Joe Biden said, “I’m dead.” - Greg Gutfeld

I think people are making a lot out of it because they don’t have any substance to talk about. - A Graham Platner supporter responding to a reporter asking her about Graham Platner’s Nazi tattoo

What if he had an Israeli flag tattoo – would that be a deal breaker? - The reporter’s follow-up question

Honestly, yeah, because I don’t support genocide. - The supporter’s response

If you were a state and you wanted to assure the public that you have voter integrity, you would do everything the opposite of what California does. Firstly, you have dirty voter roles; you don’t maintain them; you don’t check ID; and then you have universal vote by mail, meaning you hand out a ballot to everyone whether they want it or not in the mail; and then you have ballot harvesting. – First Assistant U.S. Attorney Bill Essayli talking about why Californian elections are so fraudulent

I think he’s a nice guy. But you need a certain aptitude to run for President. You need a high IQ. I’m not sure that Steven A. has that. - Pres. Trump responding to ESPN’s Stephen A. Smith criticizing Pres. Trump for showing up at the Knicks game and creating chaos on the streets

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- Rep. Josh Gottheimer (D-NJ) on CNN, who, along with Sen. Fetterman, is one of the only Democrats calling out Maine’s Democrat Senate candidate Graham Platner who has a Nazi tattoo

I’ll wear a suit every day. - Sen. John Fetterman (D-PA) on Fox News promising to wear a suit if Graham Platner agrees to release certain texts proving that he is not a creep

Platner is a hero, and I’ll tell you why. He’s done a tremendous service: he’s slayed two big movements. The “you’re a Nazi” movement. By being a Nazi, and being accepted by the left, you can’t call anybody a Nazi anymore. What about the #MeToo movement? Well, by not believing all women, that goes out the window. Because you’ve gotten the most strident adherents of those causes to accept him, revealing that that whole scene was theatrics. - Greg Gutfeld, in response to Graham Platner’s primary victory in Maine (and the Democrat establishment’s support of him)

I haven’t followed these allegations closely. - Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries (D-NY) when asked about the many allegations that Graham Platner has been abusive to women

JUNE 11, 2026 | The Jewish Home

In Jersey, we’d throw him off the ballot or bury him under the Meadowlands.

The Jewish Home | JUNE 11, 2026

112 He is a Jew. You remember, his grandfather was fighting against Nazis. I think he is turning in his grave now. -Putin talking about Ukrainian Pres. Zelensky, who Putin argues supports Nazis in Ukraine

I got a phone call during the war from Tucker Carlson. He called me and said, “Mr. Ambassador, can you please take me off the list.” I was shocked. I told him, “What are you talking about.” He told me, “I’m being attacked by the Jews, so maybe you have like a list. Can you take me off the list.” So, I waited for a minute and said, “Mr. Carlson you are being attacked because you are spreading lies, blood libels against our soldiers… you are spreading antisemitism, you are hosting antisemites, so you are being attacked.” When I got off the call, I said to myself, “Maybe we should have a list. It’s about time we put together a list of those who promote antisemitism online, on those that are hosting antisemites, and fight back. – Israel’s UN Ambassador Danny Danon during a recent interview

Black women, especially black woman who have black male children, live in fear and agony every single day. A fear and agony that I promise you the Metcalfs probably never spent a day living that way. - Rep. Jasmine Crockett (D-TX), after black teenager Karmelo Anthony, 19, was convicted for the fatal stabbing of 17-year-old Austin Metcalf at a high school track meet in Texas because Metcalf asked Anthony to leave his team’s bench and go to his own team’s bench

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Political Crossfire

The Last Straw By Rukmini Callimachi

EDGRAVE, England — If you were buying a house in a notoriously rainy country, would you choose one with a roof made of straw? Across England, buyers are paying extraordinary sums to do exactly that. Thatched homes, once associated with peasant life, are now among the most coveted properties in a country where nostalgia for a distant and mythologized past runs deep — a storybook landscape of shires, low beams and misty sheep meadows. In April, an actress relisted her thatched cottage in Buckinghamshire for 1.75 million pounds ($2.35 million). So enduring is the appeal that Richard Branson, the billionaire founder of Virgin Group, hired British thatchers to roof his Caribbean home. But beneath the layers of thatch, a feud is simmering among England’s tiny fraternity of so-called “master thatchers.” For the most ardent traditionalists, the only true thatch is “long straw” — typically cereal straw, like wheat, which is threshed to remove the grain — believed by historians to be England’s original roof. Then there’s water reed, the more durable alternative that is increasingly imported from abroad. For master thatcher Stephen Letch, the difference is unmistakable. The problem is that for almost everyone else it’s undetectable — which is one reason longstraw roofs are going extinct. “There’s 20 or 30 long-straw thatchers left in all of England,” said Letch, 66, who has spent much of his life trying to preserve this dying art. “We’re the last and we know we’re the last — and we know that once we’re gone, those skills will be lost.” On an afternoon in May, standing beside a 438-year-old cottage in the village of Redgrave, in the county of Suffolk, Letch ran his rough hand over the edge of a roof he had installed himself. “Do you see how it looks like it’s been poured?” he asked. Letch was pointing out the fluid texture of the dried thatch blanketing the house — a soft, seamless look, as though

Christopher Essex working on a water reed thatched roof in East Horsley, England

a thick golden liquid had oozed over the cottage and its eaves. This is the signature of long-straw thatch, part of a roofing tradition in Britain believed to date back to the Bronze Age. Long before Britain was stitched together by a railway, roofs were made from whatever grew nearby, like heather in the northern highlands and reed near bogs and waterways. Overwhelmingly, though, most areas of the country used straw, a byproduct of the wheat grown to make bread, according to historians. It’s a lightweight material that keeps homes well insulated in the summer heat and the winter cold, but it is also flammable, attracts insects and the spiders that feed on them, and requires costly maintenance. According to one assessment, 90% of thatched roofs in England and Wales were made of straw before 1800, with the remaining share split between water reed and grasses, like heather. Now that percentage has been inverted, as more and more houses are rethatched with the more durable reed. But it’s not sourced from the local river — much of it is shipped from Eastern Europe and China.

“We do get asked the question: Well, what is the value of it?” Letch said of the long straw. “Tradition,” he answered, before dropping his voice: “But you can’t see the tradition because it all looks the same.”

The Roof England Forgot History sits front and center in the English villages that still have thatched cottages. The stretch of Suffolk where Letch learned his trade is name-checked in the “Domesday Book,” a survey of all of the land in England commissioned in 1085 by William the Conqueror. Nearly a millennium later, Led Zeppelin made a 19th-century thatcher the embodiment of English folklore on the iconic cover of its fourth album. And yet, a country obsessed with conserving its architectural past has quietly allowed many of its oldest roofs to disappear. “It’s mad to say that we are preserving a vernacular material, but importing it from China,” said Jo Cox, a buildings historian who wrote a history of thatching for England’s historic preservation body. It’s not hard to see why water reed

has won out. It lasts longer — up to 70 years, versus 40 years for long straw, according to Julia Shelley, editor of The Thatcher’s Standard, the publication of the National Society of Master Thatchers. And it’s much easier to source and to install. “You can pick up the phone and say, ‘I need 2,000 bunches of reeds,’ and they’ll turn up next week,” said master thatcher Bodkin Willows, 38, while it can take up to a year to source the wheat for a longstraw roof. The reed arrives from overseas in bundles that can go straight onto a roof. Long straw, by contrast, requires a preparation so elaborate that it has its own archaic vocabulary: Straw must be “gabled,” soaked in water and sorted, before being arranged in “yealms,” and pinned into place with “broaches” or “spars” made from hazel sticks that have been sharpened into staples. Then there’s the training required to become a long-straw thatcher, which is so arduous it resembles a hazing ritual. When he was a 19-year-old apprentice, Letch learned to “windshield” a bucket of water onto the straw — a technique of throwing the water so that it moistens the fibers but doesn’t soak them. On freezing mornings, he’d use a hammer to crack the ice that had formed over the bucket, then dunk his hands in the frigid water for 45 seconds, “until they were like red-hot pokers,” he said. When he made a mistake, his mentor struck his numbed hands with a hazel broach — or stick. “It’s very neolithic, isn’t it?” Letch chuckled. To long-straw traditionalists, the punishing apprenticeship is part of the point. “It teaches the apprentice the values,” said Letch. “Perseverance.” But the very qualities that made long-straw thatching so demanding also made it vulnerable in a modernizing England. The demise of long-straw thatching began in the mid-1800s, when railways allowed building materials like shingles and water reed to be transported across the country. By the early

115 to be replaced every decade, or the higher insurance premiums tied to fire risk. “It’s a known fact — water reed lasts longer than long straw,” said Essex, who dismissed concerns about imported reed as out of touch.

Brawls and Charm To outsiders, the dispute may seem absurd. Britain has only around 60,000

mild-mannered academic chairing the event threatened to adjourn if the feuding thatchers didn’t settle down. Part of it is temperament. The work — often done alone, high atop a ladder — tends to draw artisans with an independent streak. “I’ll use the word ‘cantankerous,’” said Essex, describing at least four brawls he’s witnessed. “We know our own minds, and we stick to

Among England’s roughly 800 thatchers, the reed-versus-straw debate provokes enormous emotion and occasional fisticuffs.

thatched homes left — 0.2% of its housing stock. But among England’s roughly 800 thatchers, the reed-versus-straw debate provokes enormous emotion and occasional fisticuffs. A conference in Oxford in the late 1990s nearly devolved into a brawl, said Cox, recalling how the

things.” And in a small trade, disputes over how to thatch can become disputes over who gets the next job and the fear that “you’re stealing the bird out of my mouth,” he said. In recent decades, some towns and villages passed rules calling for “like-

for-like” replacements of thatch, but by then water reed had won out. The distinction is mostly lost on the thousands of owners of thatched homes. A spokesperson for Savills, the agency selling the actress’s home, was unsure which type of thatch covered the actress’ 16th-century cottage. Corinne and Martin Price, who bought their thatched cottage in the village of Saul nearly three years ago for 485,000 pounds ($655,000), also couldn’t say for certain which thatch they have. “As far as I am aware it’s straw, but I could be corrected on that,” said Corinne Price, 53. It seems beside the point when they consider the romance of living in a house that was built in 1410. “I 100% fell in love with it,” she said, describing the house as almost like a living being. The roof, she said, gives the house a feeling that modern homes never could — “warm,” “cozy” and especially “organic,” as though nature had not been shut out entirely, but was woven into the home itself.

JUNE 11, 2026 | The Jewish Home

1900s, straw roofs were being stripped and rethatched in reed. One reason was birds. Traces of grain left in straw attracted sparrows that burrowed into roofs. The birds were considered such a nuisance that churches offered a bounty — a halfpenny for every sparrow head, according to parish records collected by Letch. Wire netting, invented in the 1840s, finally solved the problem but was initially so expensive that it doubled the cost of a straw roof. Long straw acquired a reputation for being more fragile, more labor-intensive and more expensive — a perception that persists today, even as the cost of netting has fallen to around 5% of the total bill. According to master thatcher Christopher Essex — one of the craftsmen who was flown to the Caribbean to care for Branson’s roof — water reed costs around 6 pounds per bundle and covers around 1 foot of a roof, versus straw, which can cost as much as 16 pounds for a bundle that covers around 2 feet, he said. Covering an average cottage can run $40,000 to $50,000, not including the periodic replacement of the ridge, the topmost section of the roof, which needs

The Jewish Home | JUNE 11, 2026

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Political Crossfire

Even When He Disappoints Israel, Trump is Better Than the Alternative By Jonathan S. Tobin

he much-discussed phone call between President Donald Trump and Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, in which the former told the latter that he was “[really] crazy,” indisputably made headlines. But the problem wasn’t the president’s colorful language or whether the conversation proved, as Israel’s enemies hoped, that the alliance between the two leaders and their countries had broken down. Nor was the repartee entirely confined to Trump’s demands about Israel ramping down its efforts to stop the Hezbollah terrorists from firing on Israel. Still, the fact that his always-shifting stands on whether the war with Iran will end soon or continue until the regime in Tehran falls or surrenders isn’t doing either man’s political standing much good. Notwithstanding Trump’s profanity or the two leaders’ genuine disagreements on particular issues, the alliance is not collapsing. The real concern is the president’s pursuit of a deal with Iran that sensible observers know won’t succeed. Doing so won’t achieve either nation’s objectives in the war that started on Feb. 28. Simply put, the Islamist regime is attempting to deceive the United States in the negotiations that have been conducted over the last two months. As JNS columnist Melanie Phillips aptly noted, should a deal be reached along the lines of the terms that have been publicized in recent weeks, it would be a disaster for both the United States and Israel. Any promises the Iranians make about not restarting their nuclear program or interfering with shipping in the Strait of Hormuz, along with other unresolved issues like terrorism and missile production, are almost certainly going to be broken.

Tempering Disappointment Even as the world watches with

year in the 12-day war in June 2025 and in the strikes on Iran since Feb. 28, the essential weakness of both Iran and its Hezbollah terror proxy has been exposed. And none of that would have happened had a Harris administration continued to appease Iran as Biden did, as well as ramping up even more pressure on Israel to make concessions to Hamas in Gaza and Hezbollah in Lebanon.

The Folly of Iran Diplomacy

alarm the president’s apparent willingness to embrace terms that might well be compared to former President Barack Obama’s disastrous 2015 Iran nuclear deal, disappointment with Trump should be tempered by the following thought. As ill-considered and dangerous as such a course of action would be, friends of Israel should nevertheless remember one important fact. No matter how foolish a potential Trump decision to conclude hostilities with Iran might be, Israel is still far better off with him in the Oval Office than it would be with any of his recent predecessors, let alone his opponent in the 2024 presidential election. To consider the counter-factual scenario in which either President Joe Biden or former Vice President Kamala Harris had defeated Trump in 2024 is to contemplate a very different and far more dangerous world than the one that Israel, the Jewish people and the larger Middle East are currently facing. A scenario in which Washington essentially snatches defeat from the jaws of victory by enabling the Islamist regime to sur-

vive and thrive by ending the war, and even relaxing sanctions, would be very bad indeed. Yet this is also a moment to think back on how much the decisions made in the White House and the close cooperation it pursued with Jerusalem have weakened Iran and its allies since January 2025. Iran is still resisting the U.S.-Israel alliance and has inflicted economic pain on the world by seeking to restrict the free passage of shipping in the Persian Gulf. But its military has been largely stripped of its offensive capabilities. Its leadership has been decimated, and its nuclear facilities are in ruins. Hezbollah continues to fire on Israel and make the lives of those living in the north miserable. But its forces have been similarly degraded, and it has been pushed back far from the border while there are—for the first time in decades— signs that the Lebanese government may be starting to think that surrendering control of their country to the Shi’ite terrorist group is not their only choice. In the fighting that took place last

To acknowledge this is not to excuse Trump’s seeming willingness to seek a diplomatic solution to the conflict, which would inevitably strengthen the Islamist regime and its terrorist auxiliaries, and weaken the United States and its allies. The folly of such a choice will complicate the president’s legacy and create dilemmas that either he or his successors will be forced to deal with under far less advantageous circumstances than the current situation. That was also the case with Obama’s decision to choose appeasement a decade ago, when better options were still on the table. Let’s specify that any commentary on the administration’s policies toward Iran or its Hezbollah proxies or what it wants the Israelis to do or not do at any given moment is handicapped by the fact that Trump can and may shift his course at the drop of a hat. And if there is anything that all of us should have learned about the president in the 11 years since he came down that escalator at Trump Tower in June 2015, it is that trying to predict his future conduct by analyzing his past and present statements is to embark on a fool’s errand. That said, it’s still worth saying now that if he does choose to abandon the conflict by agreeing to almost any sort of a deal with Tehran, then he will have

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Political Dilemmas The political consequences of the war dragging on, despite the undoubted success of the American and Israeli militaries, have created an obvious political dilemma for a president who promised to avoid “forever” wars in the Middle East, like the failed U.S. efforts in Afghanistan and Iraq. The rise in gas prices has offset any other positive economic developments. And it has added to the likelihood that the Democrats would make the gains in the midterm elections this fall, above and beyond those that the party out of power usually achieves. It should also be remembered that, contrary to the claims of his political foes, Trump resorted to force against Iran as a last rather than a first resort. Had the Iranians not sought to rebuild their nuclear program after it was smashed by Israeli and then American airstrikes last year, as well as stepping up missile production, the odds are that the president would not have contemplated a return to the use of military action against them. Trump considers himself a master negotiator and dealmaker and will always be inclined to prefer what he might consider to be that sort of victory to one achieved on the battlefield. And then there is the fact that the two figures in charge of the negotiations with Iran—special envoy to the Middle East Steve Witkoff and presidential adviser and son-in-law Jared Kushner— seem to be true believers in diplomacy for its own sake, much in the manner of those who represented the Obama administration in their ill-advised talks with Iran in the previous decade. Leaving aside the fact that both might be compromised because of their personal financial dealings with the Gulf states, including Qatar, they seem to have lost sight of the fact that America’s goal in this conflict ought to be to defeat the Iranian regime, not to reach a compromise with it. Nor should the difficulty of toppling the despotic Islamist regime be

dismissed by those who rightly speak about that being the only way to ensure that Tehran is not a threat to the region and to the West. That is something that can only be accomplished by the Iranians themselves, though both the United States and Israel can certainly aid those who risk their lives to do that. Yet those who argue that the war is as unwinnable as Afghanistan and Iraq are clearly mistaken. The ayatollahs are not invincible. Nor is Hezbollah, as Israeli actions have proved. Those who have claimed this or, even more improbably, that Iran is actually winning the war, despite having its leadership and military infrastructure largely destroyed, in the United States and elsewhere, are largely doing so because they oppose Trump, Israel or both. Regarding Iran, the president has been pursuing a goal sought by all of his predecessors in the

States and Israel would be now with where they might have been had Harris been president. It’s not just that the Iranian nuclear facilities destroyed last year would still be standing. All the losses inflicted on the world’s leading state sponsor of terrorism would not have occurred. Iran would be immeasurably stronger, and so would Hezbollah.

The Consequences of a President Harris More than that, Iran might well be close to or would have achieved its nuclear ambitions by now if Harris had, as she almost certainly would have done, gone back not just to Biden’s weak policies but to an Obama-style active pursuit of a rapprochement with the Iranian terrorist regime. A President Harris almost certainly also would have tried to force Isra-

Asking “what if” about a Kamala Harris presidency and what that would have meant for Israel and American Jews doesn’t rationalize everything Trump has done

last quarter-century. The only difference is that he has acted while they either punted on the issue or were deluded into believing that appeasement was the only way to deal with the problem. It’s equally true that having invested so much political capital in this issue already, there’s no going back. Ending the war won’t undo the damage done to his party or his personal standing because of the war’s unpopularity. The only way to recoup some of his political losses is to persevere in the conflict. An economic strategy based on the inevitability of Iranian economic collapse caused by the U.S. blockade of Iranian ports is still a sound one. Yet it remains to be seen whether Americans have the patience to pursue that course of action and if they will give Trump the time he needs to make it work. In the event of Trump choosing to end the war now, comparisons with what might have been achieved had he not stopped the air strikes or waited for his economic strategy to work will be both fair and inevitable. If that happens, we should also compare where the United

el to make far more concessions to the Hamas terrorist regime in Gaza to free the remaining hostages when she took office. She would likely have pushed for a possible return to the status quo pre-Oct. 7, 2023, in which the Islamists ruled Gaza as an independent Palestinian state in all but name, with the ever-present threat of more Oct. 7 atrocities that would entail. We should also think about what it would have meant not just for Israel but for American Jewry had there been a president in the White House during the last 17 months who sympathized, as Harris did, with those falsely accusing Israel of committing “genocide” in Gaza. Not only would the United States have used all of its leverage to stop Israel from dealing with the Iranian nuclear threat, but it would have also forced it to accept the status quo with Hezbollah in which northern Israel would have essentially been rendered uninhabitable. More than that, the situation on American college campuses for Jewish students would be incomparably worse. At the very least, Trump’s efforts to

force elite universities and other schools to stop tolerating and encouraging proHamas mobs, as well as to abandon the woke ideologies and DEI policies that granted a permission slip for Jew-hatred, made it harder for the antisemites to persist in these hateful practices. If there had been a president who largely approved of the cause embraced by those mobs, antisemitism in academia and elsewhere would have become an even greater crisis than it is now. Asking “what if” about a Kamala Harris presidency and what that would have meant for Israel and American Jews doesn’t rationalize everything Trump has done or the mistakes he might be on the verge of making. But it does provide a reminder that, as bad an idea as a new Iran deal would be, the scenario in which the United States would have already been enriching and empowering Iran is far scarier. No one, including perhaps Trump himself, knows what will follow next. There is still the chance that—due to Iranian intransigence, Trump’s knowledge that a bad deal is far worse than no deal at all, or because he never really intended to let the Islamists off the hook—the war will not end with a whimper of appeasement but will be pursued until victory. Or perhaps he will make a terrible deal and essentially reward Iran as Obama did, something that will worsen his political predicament rather than solving it. The alliance with the United States is problematic at times, but it bears remembering that fighting for its survival without an ally would be exponentially more dangerous for the Jewish state. A U.S. administration run by a president and a party that is increasingly hostile to Zionism and Jews, as well as enamored of radical ideologies that invariably place it on the side of antisemites (something that may eventually happen under different scenarios), would be a nightmare. No matter what happens next, the situation will not be as dire for Israel, American Jews or America itself as one in which Harris had won in 2024. That will be cold comfort for those throughout the Middle East and elsewhere, who will pay a price in blood for a diplomatic blunder with Iran. But it does place the current choices facing the administration and the world in context.

Jonathan S. Tobin is editor-in-chief of JNS (Jewish News Syndicate).

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undone a great deal of what he has accomplished last summer and this year. There is no mystery about why Trump is considering diplomacy with Iran. The economic and political fallout from the rise in oil prices precipitated by the war itself and the shutdown of shipping in the Gulf have created enormous pressure on Trump to stop the war.

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Political Crossfire

On Patrol With Tokyo’s New Litter Police By Kiuko Notoya

OKYO — It was a cloudy afternoon in Shibuya, one of Tokyo’s busiest areas, and a team of city officials was on high alert. They scanned the crowds, looking to catch anyone littering and to deliver on-the-spot fines — part of a new campaign to encourage better behavior among visitors. When an unassuming tourist discarded a small piece of paper on the ground, the officials pounced. Holding a binder of notices and a payment terminal, they fined him 2,000 yen, or about $12.50. As his friends laughed, the tourist shook his head and pulled out his wallet. The entire encounter lasted about three minutes. In Shibuya, one of Tokyo’s 23 wards, dropping trash now comes with a price tag. As of June 1, litterbugs face immediate fines under a new ordinance. The rules are meant to help combat a surge in littering, officials say, as Japan has welcomed a record number of tourists over the past few years. Operating under the slogan, “If you throw trash, you lose cash,” up to 60 patrollers, including more than a dozen multilingual officers, split into teams to monitor the area every day. Fines can be paid via cash, credit card, transit cards or various QR code and mobile payment apps. Yasutaka Ogata, 47, an official who was part of the patrolling team, said that to ensure interactions went as smoothly as possible, he focused on speed and avoiding conflict. “When you stop someone, you are interrupting their good mood, taking their time and taking their money,” he said. “Because of that, finding the right balance can be difficult when it comes to gaining their understanding.”

The new rules are a central part of Shibuya’s effort to clean up the city by sending a message that it is tough on littering. Japan has long had a dearth of public trash cans, largely because of fears that they could be used in terrorist attacks, and also because of concerns about maintenance costs. Under the new rules, the government hopes to increase the number of bins — requiring some businesses and vending machine operators to provide trash cans, with noncompliance carrying a fine of 50,000 yen, or roughly $313. Shibuya officials also plan to install more public trash cans, starting in the area around the ward’s main train station. Shibuya is one of Japan’s best-known entertainment and shopping hubs, and, according to a survey conducted by the

A tourist being fined

of overtourism, and some local governments are putting in place rules to deal with the influx of visitors. In Fujiyoshida, a town in the foothills of Mount Fuji, a cherry blossom festival was recently canceled to protect the local community from overwhelming crowds. In Kyoto’s historic Gion District, several private roads have been barred to tourists following complaints

As his friends laughed, the tourist shook his head and pulled out his wallet.

Tokyo Metropolitan Government, it is the top destination for foreign visitors in Tokyo. The area has also been a cultural hub for Japanese youth for around five decades. Japan saw a record-breaking 42.6 million international visitors in 2025, roughly double the number a decade ago. While tourism has risen to become one of Japan’s economic pillars, the country is grappling with the challenges

of visitors crowding and photographing traditional geisha. Back in Tokyo, on the streets of Shibuya, patrol teams caught 10 people littering on the first day of the new ordinance, 15 on the second day, and nine on the third, according to city officials. Hironori Nakao, a Shibuya official who is helping lead the crackdown on litter, said he hoped the new rules would drive a shift in behavior among visitors.

“Shibuya is a city with a constant influx of new people, so no matter how much we publicize the rules, it is incredibly difficult to reach everyone,” Nakao said. “In a place like Singapore,” he added, “travelers already know beforehand that they will be fined for littering or spitting, so they simply don’t do it. That is the level of awareness we want to achieve here.” Amid the buzzing crowds at the famous Shibuya Scramble Crossing, Ivo Xavier Marques da Rocha, an IT engineer from Portugal, stood holding a large shopping bag alongside a friend. The pair were on a two-week trip to Japan, their first visit to the country, drawn by cultural staples like Pokémon and Nintendo. Da Rocha, 28, said he had been unaware of Shibuya’s new littering fine until he arrived and noticed the warning signs plastered across the pavement. While he finds Japan “amazingly clean” overall, da Rocha said, he views the penalty as a positive step. “If they catch you littering, maybe 2,000 yen isn’t that much money,” he said. “But at least it acts as a deterrent.” © The New York Times

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Forgotten Her es

World War II Veterans Fighting for Israel By Avi Heiligman

Shlomo Shamir

Dan Samuel

Haganah members in 1948

n the months leading up to Israel’s independence in May 1948, thousands of World War II veterans from across the globe quietly mobilized for a war they knew was inevitable. This group included thousands of service men and women as well as non-Jewish veterans drawn to the cause. Together with veterans of the British Army’s Jewish Brigade, these experienced soldiers, sailors, and airmen formed the backbone of the fledgling Israel Defense Forces (IDF). While the exploits of figures like Mickey Marcus and local commanders like Moshe Dayan are well documented, the vast majority of these service men and women remain unsung heroes who tipped the scales of the conflict. Experienced sailors were needed by Israel to help navigate and safely bring in ships during the War of Independence. William C. Gelberg was an American Jewish sailor who had served with the Merchant Marine during World War II. He was a radio communications officer and had served on several ships and oil tankers bringing vital war supplies to the theaters of operation. The routes his ships took were often in the North Atlantic where they were chased and shot at by German U-boats. In 1947, Gelberg volunteered for the IDF and served four years in Israel. He helped during Aliyah Bet, worked as an instructor, operated an underground radio station before Israel declared independence, and later provided intelligence services to the emerging defense forces. While in Israel, he married a Moroccan Jewish woman and became one of the few servicemen to have

been awarded medals for both wars. While it took a few months for the IDF to obtain battle-worthy tanks, soldiers with prior armor experience were being urgently recruited and trained for the fierce battles to come. One of those volunteers was British Army veteran Dan Samuel. Born in Jerusalem to British civil servants, his grandfather, Herbert Louis Samuel, was the first High Commissioner of Palestine. Dan’s parents sent him to England in 1936 during the Arab revolt, and he subsequently joined the British Army in 1943. Samuel took specialized tank training while earning his commission as an officer. Although he didn’t see action during World War II, he was assigned to the Yorkshire Hussars who were in England for a refit when the atomic bombs were dropped. For the next two years, he was transferred to General Headquarters in Cairo where he served in an administrative capacity. Samuel’s intimate knowledge of tanks proved invaluable to the IDF, prompting him to make his way to Haifa soon after Israel declared independence. He met with the commander of the 8th Armored Brigade, Yitzchak Sadeh, who appointed him as the main instructor for the 82nd Armored Battalion’s Tank School at Lydda. Tasked with training about 100 young students, Samuel had to teach essential armor skills with just one working Sherman tank and spare parts salvaged from destroyed, abandoned British armor. While the 82nd Battalion was based at the newly captured Lydda Airport, Samuel worked tirelessly at the school,

Arabs in Jerusalem during the Arab Revolt, 1936-1939

even inventing certain tank terminology in Hebrew. Later in the war, he participated in action in the Negev and near Rafah. Born in Berditchev, Ukraine, Shlomo Shamir immigrated to Eretz Yisrael in 1925 when he was ten years old. Four years later, he joined the Haganah, and during the Arab Revolt in 1936, he commanded one of the Haganah’s field units in reprisal raids. In 1940, he became a civilian pilot after taking lessons at Lod Airport. That same year, he took an officers course after enlisting in the British Army. Later in the war, he was assigned to the 2nd Battalion of the Jewish Brigade, and he led his troops in combat against German forces in Italy. Additionally, he was unofficially appointed by the Haganah as commander of Jewish soldiers from Palestine in the British Army. Part of his duties was to locate Holocaust survivors and bring them to Eretz Yisrael. Shamir was discharged from the British Army in 1946 and was then sent by the Haganah to the United States to purchase military equipment, machinery and to convince experienced officers to join the IDF. One of these officers was General Mickey Marcus who was tragically killed during the war. During the Israeli War of Independence, Shamir was recalled to Israel and was given command of the 7 th Armored Brigade. The Arab Legion had been blocking the road to Yeruashalayim, and it was up to the 7 th Armored Brigade to capture the fortress of Latrun which would have given the Israelis access to the road. Shamir’s command was made up of new-

ly arrived Holocaust survivors fighting in jeeps and armored cars in an ad hoc fashion. Their two attempts to capture Latrun in late May 1948 ended in failure as the Arabs put up a stubborn defense. Instead of trying to assault the fortress for a third time, the brigade helped construct the Burma Road to bypass Latrun. Shamir led the construction effort, and the Arab siege on Yerushalayim ended. Following the war, Shamir took command of the Israeli Navy and transformed it from a few old ships into a structured fighting force with corvettes and modern torpedo boats. In 1950, Shamir became the commander of the Israeli Air Force as he was successfully able to instill discipline and organize proper training for pilots as the air force began receiving its first jets. Using his skills in organizing large units, Shamir concluded his career as the head of the IDF Training Command. The impact of those who served in the 1948 War of Independence helped shape the future of Israel and its defense forces. These forgotten heroes played a crucial part in the war effort, especially those who had been a part of the Allied effort during World War II. Their contributions are a vital piece of history that deserves to be remembered.

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.

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REAL ESTATE MANAGEMENT Services – Do Not Manage Your Properties Alone! Contact Aliyah Suites for all your real estate management needs and affordable office space near you! (516) 366-1049 Management@aliyahsuites.com Marc Jeret (MJ) Team Leader & Licensed Real Estate Agent

DU N DURT Power & Soft Washing We clean siding, stucco, decks, driveways, concrete, pool patios, pavers & sidewalks. Say goodbye to grime, mold & allergens! Call/WhatsApp: 718-688-2964 Email: dundurtny01@gmail.com THE LEATHER SHOPPE The spot for all your custom leather Judaica. Tallis/tefillin bags, lulav and esrog bags, havdallah sets, challah covers, shtenders, pesach sets, matzah/afikomen bags. WhatsApp: (732) 523-0007 or email: theleathershoppe732@gmail.com for a full catalog. We ship. PEACEFUL PRESENCE STUDIO Men’s private yoga, Licensed Massage & Holistic Health Guidance 436 Central Ave, Cedarhurst Info. & free video training www.peacefulpresence.com 516-371-3715

GERBER MOVING Full Service Moving Packing Moving Supplies Local Long Distance. Licensed Insured 1000’S Of Happy Customers Call Shalom 347-276-7422 HANDYMAN AVAILABLE For big or small jobs, Sheetrock, carpentry, painting, electrical, plumbing, install & repair appliances Call Ephraim at 347-593-4691 MANAGEMENT STAFF WILL ASSIST you with: * Obtaining Medicaid and Pooled Income Trust * In-home Assessments, Individual and Family Counseling * Securing reliable home care assistance * Case and Care Management services Dr. S. Sasson, DSW, LCSW (718) 544- 0870 or (646) 284-6242 ZEVIZZ WOODTURNING JUDAICA Challah knifes, batei mezuzah, besamim holder, kiddish cups, havdalah candle holders, yad for sefer torah, pens, stenders, bowls and more 952-356-2228

buy real estate Buy real estate and wait Your realtor for life 516-784-0856 Alexandra at Realty Connect USA

COMING SOON Legal 2 family plus additional Apt. in North Lawrence Prime location, original owner, brick beautiful house, 5 bdrs, 4 full bath, 3 kitchens, above ground pool, low taxes , 3842 sg footage, tons of potential call Alexandra at EXP (516) 784-0856

Don’t Get Stuck With a Two Story House Ya Know, It’s One Story Before You Buy It But a Second Story After You Own It! Call Dov Herman For An Accurate Unbiased Home Inspection Infrared Termite Inspection Full Report All Included NYC 718-INSPECT Long Island 516-INSPECT www.nyinspect.com

ELISHEVA BAUM 917-620-0572

elishevabaum18@gmail.com @elishevabaum

WOODMERE WOODMERE CEDARHURST

WOODMERE LAWRENCE LAWRENCE

REACH OUT FOR OUR EXCLUSIVE OFF MARKET DEALS

SARAH ‘CHAYA’ ISAACS TOP SELLING BROKER IN THE FIVE TOWNS Licensed Real Estate Salesperson Realty Connect USA (917) 587-5704 Sarahcisaacs@gmail.com JUST LISTED!

i-level home offering a bright open concept

Quality New Construction!!! layout for modern living. The main floor features Stucco Col. with 2 Story Entry 9 ft Ceilings, 14 Zone Heat which a sun filled living dining room andofkitchen includes Radiant Heat,room, Anderson Windows with Lots Natural OPEN HOUSE 3:00-4:30 223Eik Hickox Avenue Light Flr Fdnr, Magnificent Chefs with High End withThroughout, seamless flow for everyday living and Totally renovated Colonial. Like New. High Ceilings, Chefs Appliances, Dble Ovens , 6 Burner Cooktop with Pot Filler,EIK, 5 Bdrms. Prime Woodmere location! This home 3+2with bedrooms, 2entertaining. Dishwashers, and more. Masteroffers Bdrm Suite Luxurious Bath $1.659M and Walk in closet,+4 and$1.2M 2 Beautiful Bths ,2nd Flr including a homeBdrms office. $ 1.169 Laundry Rm , Full Finished Basement with 10 ft Ceilings Huge Playrm 2 Bdrms and Bth laundry Rm storage, Beautiful Manicured Garden.

WOODSBURGH FAR ROCKAWAY CEDARHURST

UNDER CONTRACT!

Prestigious three-story colonial with elegant

living spaces, eat-in kitchen, den, Spacious Wide Linelarge Expanded Ranch on Most fireplace Prestigious and Serene Cul-de-Sac in Village of Lawrence , Main Flr Master Bdrm library, and 8 beds, 5 baths. OPEN HOUSE 12:30-1:30 1068 Suite with Many Closets and Bthrm, Addional Main Flr highland Bdrm & Bath, Center Hall Huge Colonial with Main Level+Den 3 BRs 23Bths Baths Lg Flr Fdnr Den, EIK, Mudrm, 4 Bdrms onFinished Second Flr, Basment Property BeautifulBeautiful Wrap Around Property, $1.690M $999K

CO-OPS/CONDOS INWOOD WOODMERE CO-OP LAWRENCE

261 Central Ave 1st Floor, Large Entry Foyer, Open Concept Kitchen. Large LR/DR Overlooking the Courtyard $229K

LAWRENCE

Private street luxury living in this custom-built 2024 gut-renovated home. 8 bedrooms, 6.5 baths, soaring ceilings & radiant heat. POR

LAWRENCE 348 MULRY LN,

Move-in ready Colonial on 10K+ sq ft. 5BR/4.5BA, radiant floors, finished basement w/ sep entrance. $1.65M

SOLD OFF MARKET!

LAWRENCE

240 Central Avenue Spacious 1 Bdrm 1 Bth Apt in Well Maintained Elevator Bldg with Terrace Overlooking Garden, Near All $229K

FAR ROCKAWAY

This spacious s/h col , in the prestigious village of woodsburgh, sits on two-family 1/2 acre property in a. most serene setting, with beautiful Rare home on an expansive 13,000 waterviews, and magnificent sunsets . Flr banquet fdnr , COMMERCIAL RENTAL! 9 ,Room Dr office Suite, Located sq ft lotrm, with endless for investment breakfast main level NEW! denpotential /fpl master bdrm suite with his inand theher Heart of Cedarhurst, room, Reception closets and bth + 4Spacious bdrms , waiting new bths, newly renovated or private living. This unique property offers Area and Exam Rooms, alllaundry on Mainrm, Floor. Close to of Public finished basement with playrm, lots storage, generous space and a rare opportunity to create Transportation many special details thruout $1.9M+ $6,000 your vision. $1.5M

156 B 9th St Mint 2BR, 2 BTH Beachfront Condo with Wraparound Terrace, Magnificent Built in 2004, Class-A professional medical Sunrise & Sunset building offers flex2Bsingle-story space ideal for $589K 29 Woodmere Blvd Apt Renovated, Mint, Corner 1 Bdrm with Ceilings. Spacious Eat In Kitchen, 2 Sinks, Granite drs,9ft dentists, chiropractors, / multiple practices. Counter tops and S.S. Appliances.Large Lvgrm/Dnr and Large The property sits on a level lot & includes a lrg Bdrm/BR with Lots of Windows private parking REDUCED $299K area w/ 18 dedicated spaces. POR

LAWRENCE 34 LISMORE RD.

A luxury residence offering over 12,000 sq. ft. of exceptional, high-end living with every amenity you could want.

SOL

JUNE 11, 2026 | The Jewish Home

classifieds@fivetownsjewishhome.com • text 443-929-4003

The Jewish Home | JUNE 11, 2026

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Classifieds

classifieds@fivetownsjewishhome.com • text 443-929-4003

COMMERCIAL REAL ESATATE

HELP WANTED

CEDARHURST Prime Restaurant Location For Lease. For more information: Call/Text/WhatsApp Owner: (516) 206-1100

REGENTS EXPERT Tutoring regents in Algebra and Geometry A Darchei Torah instructor. Guaranteed results Text 347-491-8045 WhatsApp 347-767-1755

SEEKING ELEMENTARY TEACHERS For current school year, starting from end of January: Seeking assistant teacher for General Studies. Candidate should have skills to take over for teachers if needed. Far Rockaway area boys’ school, M-Th, PM hours, strong support. Excellent salary. Possibility to continue for next year. Send resume to teachersearch11@gmail.com

JEWISH PRESCHOOL IN Merrick seeks warm, loving, experienced toddler teachers for 2-year-olds, preschool teachers, and assistant teachers for children ages 18 months–4 years for the 2026–2027 school year. Mon–Thu 9–3, Fri 9–2. Email admissions@jewishelc.org or call 516-833-3057 ext. 110.

HELP WANTED DEVELOPMENT ASSISTANT A multi-tasker needed for general office work. The ideal candidate is someone who is detail-oriented, responsible, and can take ownership. Looking for someone who is eager to learn, and expand his/her skill set while possessing the ability to work independently and as part of a team. Experience with Excel required. Five Towns location. In-office position only, not remote. Please send resume to 5tpart.timecareer@gmail.com UPSCALE EVENING & Ready-to-Wear Boutique opening on Central Ave seeks fashion-forward, friendly sales associates with retail experience. Full-time & Part-time. Text/WhatsApp 718-310-8550.

ARE YOU A DOULA? Or have a passion to be? Come join our great referral group and get access to a vast new clientele through Medicaid. JUST CALL 347-668-7886 BOOKKEEPER A Five Towns Real Estate Company is seeking a full-time Bookkeeper. The right candidate must be proficient with QuickBooks and Excel. They must also be self-motivated, organized, detail oriented, reliable, and able to work independently or as a team player. Warm, frum office environment with excellent salary & benefits. Please email resume to HR@capsprop.com

SHEVACH HIGH SCHOOL Is seeking experienced teachers for the following positions: • ELA • First Aid Please send your resume to mribowsky@shevachhs.org JEWISH CENTER SEEKS Administrative Assistant with strong office/computer skills and experience working with toddlers & preschoolers ages 1–4. Responsibilities include office administration, social media/ PR, program support, substitute coverage/aftercare in preschool classrooms, and event setup. Knowledge of Jewish traditions is a plus. Full-time, Mon–Fri with occasional evenings/Sundays. Send resume to admin@jewishelc.org

JOIN THE ZAREINU TEAM Our small, special education classes are in yeshivas and Bais Yaakov’s in Far Rockaway and the Five Towns. For the 2026-2027 school year, Zareinu is seeking: - AM Rebbe for a boys 4th -5th class - P/T, (AM and PM positions) Morah for middle school girls classes - PM Special Education Secular Studies Teacher for middle school boys class - P/T or F/T Assistants for both boys classes and girls classes Highly competitive salary and caring, supportive administration. Send resume to info@zareinu.org / or call (718) 406-8343, Ext. 229 for further information.

LEAH SCHEININGER

Licensed Real Estate Salesperson Realty Connect USA 516-884-6530 (C) Lscheininger@realtyconnectusa.com @LeahScheininger_Realtor 24 Franklin Ave. Hewlett NY 11557

IN CONTRACT OPEN HOUSE SUNDAY, JUNE 14TH 3:30-4:30PM

WOODMERE

Stunning 6 bed, 3.5 bath split level. Newly renovated, move-in ready. Over 3300 sq ft of living space. SD 15. $1.698M

Beautiful 5 bed, 3 bath colonial on picturesque block. Prime Academy Area location. Full basement, CAC, great yard. $1.625M

WOODSBURGH

N. LAWRENCE

Prestigious brick colonial on 1+ acre. 9 beds, 9 full baths, 3 half baths, elevator, pool, hot tub, sports court, too much to mention! Call Dara (516)724-0389 or Lara (516)314-6944. POR

Charming 4 bed, 2 bath cape. Great block in prime location. Very low taxes. Call Gabi (516) 462-4955. $1.275M

LAWRENCE 240 Pearl Street

Multi Family, 3,842 Sq Footage, 5 Bedrooms, 4 Bathrooms, 3 Kitchens, 4 Seperate entrances, Above ground pool, Low Taxes.

LAWRENCE 29 Waverly Place

Stunning 6 Bedrooms, 5.5 Bathrooms, Prime Location, Finished Basement, Low Taxes.

EAST ROCKAWAY 83 Arnold Court

Completely Renovated, Radiant Heated Floor, 6 Bedrooms, 4 Full Bath, Spacious Eat in Kitchen with Brand New Appliances. Library with Fireplace.

We put the “Pro” in

Property!

FAR ROCKAWAY

WOODMERE

2 family luxury townhouses on the beach, private balconies, access to private beach and dock. Ayelet (516)993-9561 STARTING AT $1.15M

2br/2bth spacious condo with private porch, easy access to the shoreline. Chava Rina (929)352-3858 $529K

Fully renovated and beautifully redesigned home offers 5 spacious bedrooms and 7 bathrooms. Raizie (917) 903-1778 $2.999M

One of a kind colonial 7 Bedrooms, 7 full baths and 3 half baths on a 14,318sqft lot. Avigail (516)316-3452 $4.9

Beautiful expanded High Ranch offering 5 bdr, 4 bts, with three levels of living space. Sarah (347)524-9147 $1.299M

Side hall colonial- 4 bedrooms, 3.5 baths, overlooking a picturesque rear yard Tamar (917)902-0613 $1.699M

Stunning center hall colonial featuring 6 bedrooms and 4.5 baths on a 8,000 sf Lot. Tamar (917)902-0613 $2,999,999

8 bedroom, 6.5 bath, Newly designed custom home, on a 6,000sqft lot Bryna (516)322-4831, Chana (516)449-9692 $2.99M

Exceptional custom Colonial featuring 6 bedrooms, 6.5 baths on a 30,056 sf lot. Avigail (516)316-3452 $4.15M

Welcome to this perfect resort like home, 6 bedrooms, 4 bathrooms on a 25,047sqft lot. Avigail (516)316-3452 $2.9M

Spacious five-bedroom, three-bath Colonial in sought-after District 15 in Woodsburgh. Sarah (347)524-9147 $1.875M

Beautifully renovated 5 bedroom, 3 full bath splanch in an unbeatable location. Miri (646)515-8813 $1.625M

Newly constructed Commercial Building. large office suites available. Raizie (917) 903-1778

Approximately 800 square feet of commercial office space in prime Woodmere location. Chana (516)449-9692 $3,000/M

Spacious colonial on a beautifully landscaped property, 7 bedrooms, 5 full and 2 half baths. Bryna (516)322-4831 $12,000/M

HALLANDALE BEACH

DEERFIELD BEACH

2 bdrms, 2 full baths, 1,000sf Kayla (347) 729-9863 $220K

2 bedrooms, 2 baths, Chaim (516) 262-2144 $309K

LAWRENCE

WOODMERE

LAWRENCE

CEDARHURST

Don Miller

Tamar Miller

Hollywood, Florida (954) 300-3142 MillerRealtySouth.com

The Olympus- 1-2 br, 1.5-2 baths, 1000-1400sf Kayla (347) 729-9863 Chana (516)449-9692 Multiple Units available Starting at $170K

NORTH WOODMERE

CEDARHURST

WOODSBURGH

WOODMERE

LAWRENCE

HEWLETT NECK

NORTH WOODMERE

HEWLETT NECK

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JUNE 11, 2026 | The Jewish Home

27 Frost Lane Lawrence, NY 11559 (516) 374-4100 www.ftmr.com

FR- SALTMEADOW TOWNHOMES

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Classifieds

classifieds@fivetownsjewishhome.com • text 443-929-4003

HELP WANTED

NOW HIRING: Jewish Center in Merrick is looking to fill the following positions: 1. Administrative Assistant. Must have strong office and computer skills. 2. Preschool Teachers 3. Preschool Assistants 4. Hebrew School Teachers Great opportunity to join a warm and welcoming Jewish educational environment. Please send resumes to: admin@jewishelc.org or call 516-833-3057 ext 103

STAFF FOR EARLY CHILDHOOD Center The Marion & Aaron Gural JCC Early Childhood Center is hiring Assistant Teachers and Substitute Teachers for the 2026-2027 school year. Please send resumes to JCC.Nursery@guraljcc.org or call (516) 239-1354

CARE MANAGER Remote (requires in-person home visits in NY) Support families facing serious medical or emotional challenges. Provide guidance, advocacy, and resource coordination from home or on-site. Training provided. BA or 2 years Care Management required Apply online: www. chailifeline.org/careers or email hr@chailifeline.org LOOKING FOR BT Monday-Thursday 4-6 or 7 Friday afternoon after 1 and Sunday after 12. Please contact Malky 855-316-2700 ext 123 Or email malkak@supportiveaba.com

MDS REGIONAL NURSE 5 Towns area Nursing Home management office seeking a Regional/Corporate level MDS Nurse to work in our office. Must be an RN. Regional experience preferred. 2-3 years MDS experience with good computer skills required. Position is Full Time but Part Time can be considered. Great Shomer Shabbos environment with some remote options as well. Email: officejob2019@gmail.com

MISC.

SHMIRAS HALASHON

BEIS HAMEDRASH CONG. Chasdei Uvois Oshpitzin Talmidei chachomim are willing to learn mishnayos, say kaddish and be the shliach tzibbur to daven for the umid on the yartzeit yom hashanah of your parents or close relatives or loved ones To arrange please call Rabbi Miller 917-445-6220

Text 516-303-3868 with a time slot of your choice to be careful on lashon hara. Be a part of the 1,000 people for klal yisroel!

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Classifieds

JUNE 11, 2026 | The Jewish Home

26 Maple Ave, White Lake, NY 12786 (or Kauneonga Lake, NY 12749)

Catskills home for sale in Sullivan County approx 10 miles west of Monticello in the town of Bethel. Located on the east side of the lake close to the boat launch and a shul. A fenced in multi-family compound beautifully landscaped with trees and greenery. The main house is 4 bed / 2 bath (with a sauna) and a separate cottage / bungalow is 1 bed / 1 bath. Both houses have heat pumps and heated floors and are heavily insulated for the winter. There is a huge garage, a pond, greenhouse, hen house, storage sheds, and a basketball court. Ideal location to vacation or live year round. More pictures online. $599,000. Eric 718-544-7744.

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