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Beyond the Headlines
A weekly glimpse into the Israel you won’t read about in the news
By Sivan Rahav Meir
A New Language of Am Yisrael
A new language is taking shape before our eyes, and I encountered it three times this week.
1. The eulogy delivered by Tali Gvili is echoing around the world. I have heard Tali speak countless times, but what struck me most was the single moment she keeps returning to, out of her son’s entire life story. She returned to it again in her eulogy:
“Rani was proud to be a police officer. Not long ago, he came home from a violent demonstration and told me, ‘They spat on me at the protest.’ I don’t know who they were, but Rani said, ‘How do they not understand that we’re on the same side? That we are one side?’ Rani—you reminded us of that.”
It’s remarkable. Tali did not describe how he left the house on Simchat Torah morning while still recovering from shoulder surgery. She didn’t recount how many terrorists he eliminated at Kibbutz Alumim, or how, on the way there, he saved people who had been at the Nova music festival.
Who is this woman? Where does such clarity and strength come from?
Not long ago, at an event in Tel Aviv, Tali was interviewed about her personal transformation. “I’ll never forget one of the first videos I saw after October 7,” she said. “There was a reservist holding a tallit. He spread it out and said, ‘I’m putting on tefillin for the first
time in my life. I’m not religious, but I am Jewish.’ I saw that when the war was still so raw, and I said to myself: Wow, we are Jews.”
The interviewer, Avigail Bachar, nodded emotionally, and Tali continued, “Rani went out to fight those fiends because we are Jews. Suddenly everything connected. My husband now goes to shul every Friday night. I light Shabbat candles, which I never
did before. We’re not religious, but we are Jewish. We’re doing many, many things—and maybe we’ll draw even closer.”
The audience rose to its feet and applauded her then, just as they did at the end of the eulogy this week. Tali ended with one sentence:
“I don’t know how we would have made it through these two years and four months without you, Am Yisrael, our Jewish brothers and sisters.”
2. Now to the latest episode of Omri Peled’s podcast. Peled is one of those interviewers who set a certain frequency online, content creators who challenge the accepted discourse and speak about unity and inner strength. In this episode, he interviewed Shir Siegel from Kibbutz Kfar Aza, whose parents, Aviva and Keith, were kidnapped.
Neither Shir nor Tali received talking points. And yet, they spoke the same language.
Shir described how, at first, she wanted to burn everything down—to block roads, to scream. “That’s where I was,” she said. “But I learned something. There is an entire nation here, with all kinds of people. Some are the complete opposite of me.
“At the beginning of the war, when I heard the phrase ‘we are all brothers,’ I thought: How can anyone believe that? There are people who don’t want a deal that would bring my parents home.
Tali, mother of Ran Gvili
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But I changed. Today, even people who think differently from me feel like biological siblings.”
It’s a full hour-long conversation worth listening to. But like Tali, Shir speaks about a surprising discovery that emerged specifically in the hardest days.
“The idea of Am Yisrael, the Jewish people, didn’t exist in my reality,” she said. “I had my family, my class, my kibbutz. But Am Yisrael? That had never been part of my story.”
3. Last week, I was in Jerusalem at the shiva for baby Ari Katz, who died at a daycare together with baby Lia Goloventzitz.
I learned that the grieving mother, Chani, had led a volunteer memorial initiative in which thousands of necklaces and pieces of jewelry bearing photos of fallen soldiers were given to bereaved families. Now, those families came to console her. People from every sector filled the home. Miriam Peretz had just left. Rabbi Lau was there as well. A Druze family entered, followed by another family who said they had come from the Binyamin Regional Council “on behalf of the entire community of Neria.”
In an extraordinary step, Chani left in the middle of shiva and went to the courthouse. Through tears, she asked that the caregivers be released from detention to house arrest. She spoke about her three children who had been in that wonderful daycare, and about how there was no point in treating the caregivers “like terrorists.” To this day, she told me, she has no idea what actually happened there, and we may never know. There are no clear findings.
That didn’t stop many people from rushing to judge, to issue verdicts, and to attack her and her community within seconds.
Chani is furious about the media coverage and the discourse on social networks. When I asked her what strengthened her most during the week of shiva, she thought about all the rabbis and public figures who had passed through her living room. Then she answered, without coordination, without talking points: “In the end, what strengthened me most was Am Yisrael.”
Five Points on Parashat Yitro Yitro is the fifth portion in sefer Shemot. At its heart stands Ma’amad Har Sinai: the Giving of the Torah and the Ten Commandments. This is a formative event with unprecedented historical impact. We read of a divine revelation to an entire nation, and of principles that since then have become moral obligations embraced by all humanity: “Do not murder,” “Do not steal,” a weekly day of rest, honoring parents, and opposition to idol worship. From these ten principles flow many additional commandments and detailed laws.
The word that appears most frequently in the Ten Commandments is “lo,” do not. It appears thirteen times in this ancient and sacred text. The portion, then, does not announce to the world only rights, but primarily responsibilities; not only what is permitted, but also what is forbidden. It is an important call for individuals and humanity as a whole to exercise self-control, restrain impulses, and manage a world that has boundaries and red lines.
Notice that the portion in which the people of Israel receive the Torah is not named after Moshe Rabbeinu but after Yitro, Moshe’s father-in-law, who was not Jewish, but converted and joined the people of Israel. He, too, teaches the nation many lessons throughout this special portion.
Yitro also gives Moshe an important piece of advice at the beginning of the portion: not to take all the work upon himself, but to appoint others beneath him to help him judge the people. This is called delegation of authority, managing our time and resources wisely. This was not a simple tip but a profound directive: Moshe begins to share the divine and sacred mission, working as a team with many partners and leaders.
“And they said: ‘All that Hashem has spoken—we will do and we will hear.’” The response of the Jewish people, na’aseh v’nishma, became a famous symbol. Our sages say this is one of the greatest sources of our strength and enduring existence. We will do and we will hear. First, get up and act. First, do.
The practical commandments—Shabbat, tefillin, festivals, kashrut, and many more— have been the defining feature of the Jewish people for thousands of years. Wherever we have gone, and whatever challenge we have faced, our response has been: we will do, and only afterward we will hear. We begin with action, and then we learn, discuss, deliberate, and come to understand its meaning.
From Buenos Aires to the Bleachers: How Raul Iojes Built La MISHPACHA, a Global Jewish Sports Community
By the time Inter Miami CF kicked off its first non-Shabbat home games in 2021, Raul Iojes was already in the stands—but his love for sports began long before that.
Born in Buenos Aires, Argentina, and raised in South Florida since the age of three, Iojes grew up with soccer woven deeply into his identity, a passion first instilled in him by his father, Carlos, who taught him to love the game from a young age. “Like most Argentinians, it’s in your blood,” Iojes says. He may not have been a standout player, but his connection to the sport—and the culture surrounding it—never faded.
What began as a lifelong love of sports soon evolved into something far greater: La MISHPACHA—a growing movement that helps Jewish fans feel comfortable, represented, and proud at major sporting events across South Florida and beyond.
An Idea Sparked by Community
The turning point came in 2023, when a fellow member of the Jewish community reached out to Iojes for help navigating tickets and logistics related to Shabbat observance at Inter Miami games. While Iojes helped resolve the immediate issue, the conversation planted a seed.
“He’s really the one who gave me the idea,” Iojes explains. “He pushed me to take it seriously and actually start what became La MISHPACHA around Inter Miami.”
That encouragement proved
pivotal, especially as global attention shifted to Miami with the arrival of Lionel Messi.
The First Event—and a Bigger Vision
In August 2023, Iojes helped organize his first Jewish fan gathering around an Inter Miami match. Roughly 80 to 100 people attended. The event featured kosher food, a barbecue, tefillin, music, and the presence of a local Fort Lauderdale rabbi.
It wasn’t a massive production— but it was meaningful. More importantly, it confirmed what Iojes already sensed: Jewish fans wanted a way to enjoy sports together without compromising their values or identity.
Over the next two years, he focused on advocacy and visibility—building relationships with the club, showing up consistently, distributing kippot, and making it clear that Inter Miami had a real and growing Jewish supporter base. During that time, La MISHPACHA began to take shape not just as a name, but as a true community.
Growth, Partnerships, and a Breakthrough Moment
Everything shifted in January 2025, when an Inter Miami representative called with an opportunity: discounted tickets and the chance to organize a large-scale community event.
“I remember saying, ‘Hashem, please send me someone to help me do this,’” Iojes recalls.
Help came quickly. Through a neighbor, Iojes was connected with Rabbi Yaakov Menaker from Chabad at the Stadium, who was already deeply involved in kosher access and Jewish programming at the stadium. That connection became a turning point.
In February 2025, La MISHPACHA, together with Chabad at the Stadium, hosted a landmark event that drew more than 500 people. There was free kosher food, music, T-shirts, merchandise, and tefillin—creating an atmosphere that was both high-energy and unmistakably Jewish.
“Jewish visibility at the stadium reached a whole new level that day,” Iojes says.
Jewish Heritage Night and Beyond
That momentum carried forward. Later in 2025, Inter Miami hosted its first-ever Jewish Heritage Night—a milestone Iojes helped organize through La MISHPACHA. Fans received kippot, community leaders were present, and the evening included meaningful tributes honoring families connected to the club, blending pride, memory, and unity.
Maccabi USA was present at Jewish Heritage Night, participating alongside the community and reinforcing the message of Jewish pride in professional sports spaces.
From there, the initiative expanded beyond soccer.
La MISHPACHA, together with Chabad at the Stadium, began hosting large-scale Jewish events at major sporting venues, including tailgates at Miami Dolphins games.
These gatherings drew hundreds of people and featured kosher food, barbecues, tefillin, and a powerful sense of togetherness. Similar programming followed at the Miami Open and the Formula One Miami Grand Prix.
A viral video showing tefillin being wrapped on a fan in the middle of a game reached hundreds of thousands of viewers worldwide— propelling La MISHPACHA onto a global stage.
“Baruch Hashem, it’s gone far beyond Miami,” Iojes says. “Based on where it’s being shown and shared, I can honestly say it’s worldwide.”
Sports as a Bridge
The mission behind La MISHPACHA is simple.
“Everyone loves sports,” Iojes explains. “But sometimes, as a Jewish person, going to a stadium can feel uncomfortable—because of food, Shabbat, or visibility. We’re here to change that.”
He believes sports uniquely break down barriers, bringing to-
gether people from every background and profession. “You can have a lawyer sitting next to a chef, cheering for the same team,” he says. “That’s the beauty of sports.”
Telling the Story to the World
In addition to organizing events, Iojes also tells these stories on an international stage. He is a reporter for TyC Sports, Argentina’s largest sports network, often compared to ESPN. Through his reporting, Jewish community moments connected to La MISHPACHA have been broadcast to millions of viewers worldwide.
Looking Ahead
Looking ahead, La MISHPACHA, together with Chabad at the Stadium, plans to be present at major upcoming events, including the Miami Open, Formula One, Dolphins games, and the World Cup.
“At the end of the day,” Iojes says, “this is about representation, community, and family. That’s what La MISHPACHA is all about.”
A Conversation on Kashrus, Kosher in Miami, and a Bowl of Cholent That Brings Everyone Together
We sat down for a short, informal conversation with Rabbi Meir Shafran of Kosher Miami (KM) and Rabbi Sholey Klein of ORB to talk about kashrus, the kosher landscape in South Florida, and what really goes on behind the scenes. Not a heavy interrogation—just an honest overview: how things work, what makes Miami unique, and a few real stories from the field, before tying it all together with a bowl of cholent.
Instead of starting with formal titles or credentials, Rabbi Shafran jumped right in.
“I was standing in the back of a warehouse, looking at powdered milk.”
Powdered milk. Not exactly glamorous—but that’s the job.
“People think the rabbi sits in an office all day,” he said with a half-smile. “Meanwhile, I’m checking powdered milk—what kind of milk it is, whether it’s dairy, if it’s sweet whey, where it’s sourced from. That’s kashrus.”
What Does a Day Really Look Like?
Day-to-day kashrus work is constant movement. In and out of restaurants, warehouses, catering halls, and production facilities. Checking products, verifying ingredients, reviewing processes, and addressing questions as they come up.
Among his many responsibilities, Rabbi Shafran regularly speaks with mashgichim at each
location, guiding them through questions in real time and ensuring that standards are applied consistently. Kashrus, as he described it, is not static—it’s active, responsive, and deeply detail-oriented.
That led naturally to a broader question for both rabbis.
Is Kashrus in Florida Different Than New York?
The short answer was immediate: very.
South Florida has an extraordinary number of kosher restaurants—more than most places in the United States, and per capita, possibly rivaling New York. There is also an enormous amount of food service here, including largescale operations that serve thousands of meals.
But the similarities largely end there.
One of the most significant differences between South Florida and New York is location and infrastructure, particularly when it comes to staffing. It is far easier to find mashgichim in New York than it is in Florida.
Rabbi Sholey Klein added important context: between ORB and Kosher Miami, there are approximately 500 mashgichim in total working across South Florida. While that number may sound large, it is stretched thin across a rapidly expanding kosher food scene.
Compensation plays a central
role in this challenge.
“In New York,” Rabbi Klein explained, “a mashgiach sitting in a sushi place—who may not be doing very much hands-on work—is still making around $30 an hour.” In Florida, starting wages are significantly lower, and even with experience, few mashgichim are earning what could be considered a living wage.
As he put it bluntly: no one is really making a living wage as a mashgiach in Florida.
This reality is driven by what Rabbi Klein described as diminishing returns. As more restaurants open—particularly new and niche establishments—the number of people eating out remains relatively stable. Revenue is spread thinner, margins shrink, and restaurants struggle to absorb rising costs.
The restaurant industry itself compounds the problem. Restaurants are a high-turnover business, with many failing within a few years. That instability makes long-term financial commitments increasingly difficult.
And then there’s a number most people never see.
For a restaurant running double shifts, having mashgiach coverage all day can easily cost close to $100,000 a year—and that’s just for supervision.
It’s a heavy burden for restaurateurs already operating on razor-thin margins.
So on one hand, the community
rightly demands the highest standards of kashrus. On the other, there must be an understanding of how difficult it is to stay in business. Finding that balance is one of the ongoing challenges facing kosher supervision in South Florida.
A Wake-Up Call: When
“Kosher”
Wasn’t Kosher
Then came a story that underscored why standards—and vigilance—matter so deeply.
There was an event—a Jewish event—organized by a Jewish party planner at a non-kosher venue. The caterer was non-Jewish and claimed he was kosher. Said he was certified. People trusted it.
They were eating treif.
The discovery came later. ORB began investigating and learned that the caterer had previously worked for a kosher catering company. When ORB contacted that company to verify the event, the response was immediate.
“We weren’t there. We didn’t do that event.”
That was the red flag.
Further digging revealed the truth. The caterer insisted everything he bought was kosher. He claimed he had purchased brandnew equipment. He even produced invoices for a new toaster oven.
But when asked where the meat came from?
Restaurant Depot.
There were no kosher meat invoices. No real certification. Just assumptions layered on top of confidence.
People assumed it was kosher because it was a Jewish event, be-
cause someone said it was kosher, because it looked kosher.
That incident became a turning point.
Educated Consumers Matter
In response, ORB implemented a new system. Every catered event now requires a visible certificate that includes:
The date
The caterer’s name
The venue
The mashgiach’s name
A QR code linking directly to the certifying agency
Because the message is simple—and critical:
Jewish faces don’t make food kosher.
Assumptions don’t make food kosher.
People walk into restaurants, see Jewish customers, and assume everything is fine—especially on vacation, especially in Florida. But kashrus doesn’t work on vibes.
Read the certificate. Ask questions. Scan the code.
As one of the rabbis put it:
“An educated consumer makes the best customer.”
He even quoted the old SYMS clothing store slogan:
“An educated consumer is our best customer.”
The same principle applies here. Know what you’re eating. Know who is certifying it. Don’t just go with the flow.
Consumers should also be aware that not all hashgachos are the same, and that many specialize in different standards and stringencies—Yoshon, Cholov Yisroel, Pas Yisroel, Glatt, and
more. Understanding these distinctions allows consumers to make informed choices aligned with their personal standards.
Responsibility and Reality
Ultimately, both rabbis were clear about the role of a hashgacha.
The primary responsibility of kosher supervision is to uphold the strictest standards of kashrus. It is not the job of a hashgacha to keep restaurants in business. At the same time, the conversation raised an important question for the broader community: perhaps hashgachos should be more assertive in demanding living wages for mashgichim, even when doing so adds financial pressure.
Kashrus only works when all parts of the system are strong— standards, supervision, and informed consumers.
And Then… Cholent
Which brings the conversation, naturally, to cholent.
Cholent is the great equalizer. A hot bowl of cholent brings everyone together—no matter where you’re from, how you dress, or what shul you attend. It’s comfort. It’s Shabbos. It’s community.
If we can all sit together and eat cholent, we can sit together— period.
That is the quiet power behind events like the Cholent Cook-Off. Beyond logistics, beyond supervision, beyond categories and certifications, there is something deeply unifying about sharing a pot of cholent.
And that—perhaps more than anything—is why it matters.
Downtown Campus Vote
By Scott Singer
Last month, I wrote about the first ballot measure that Boca Raton voters will consider in the city election on March 10 — a plan to upgrade our Boca Raton Police Headquarters to ensure outstanding public safety.
This month, I am sharing information about another matter for which I hope you’ll vote YES — a plan to transform our downtown government campus with an exciting opportunity that may be as beneficial as Mizner Park was a generation ago.
At the January 20th City Council meeting, the council voted to approve a long-term land lease to create an exciting mixed-use, walkable area near our Brightline Station that will expand park and green space, fund new community and city buildings, and generate more than $4 billion in direct revenues to taxpayers, in addition to large economic impacts to our community.
The One Boca proposal revitalizes blighted blocks the way Mizner Park reshaped our city 35 years ago.
For several years, the City Council consistently ranked modernizing our downtown campus as the city’s top priority. Over a year ago, the council unanimously decided to pursue a public-private-partnership to deliver the much needed and desired upgrades to our outdated City Hall and Community Center without raising taxes.
The City Council unanimous-
ly selected Terra / Frisbie as our partners to embark on this venture. Their proposal was the least dense to others and within our existing height limits. The plans have continued to evolve in direct response to resident input and feedback, with a further reduction in square footage by nearly one-third from the original, least-dense proposal.
Instead of just replacing our old buildings and maintaining the underutilized campus, the One Boca project transforms our downtown civic campus to a place where residents want to spend time.
The plan protects what makes Boca Raton special. The more than $4 billion in direct revenues to the city over the lease term enables us to double the amount of green and recreational space, fulfill the vision of a true Memorial Park, build a much-needed com-
munity center, city hall, and police facilities, and add workforce housing for our city employees. This plan is fiscally smart and can update this section of downtown into an area residents can be proud of for generations to come.
Key highlights of the deal and planned upgrades:
● Adding new park space east of NW 2nd Avenue, connecting both sides of downtown with green, walkable public areas.
● Memorial Park remains 100 percent city-owned, preserved, and enhanced to fulfill the vision to honor our brave military heroes.
● Public recreation space more than doubles, from 7.6 to 15.4 acres, including new playgrounds, tennis courts, and shaded walkways.
● New public facilities will be delivered, including a City Hall, Community Center, and Police Substation.
● One Boca will generate more than $4 billion in direct revenue for the City of Boca Raton over the lease term, and hundreds of millions of dollars annually in economic impact.
If the project proceeds, the city will be able to update our civic campus, fulfill the vision of Memorial Park, add affordable housing for our city employees, and create a gathering place for our
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residents all without raising taxes.
This project delivers more recreation and modern community facilities our residents want, need, and deserve.
Mizner Park elevated our city and served as a catalyst for our downtown. We owe it to our city and our future to continue to consider other possibilities that build off that success and continue to bring social, cultural, and financial benefits to our residents.
One of the biggest motivating factors is creating opportunities for our children and future generations. This plan commits to adding a mix of uses including office, which will attract job creators and entrepreneurs and ensure our city remains the economic engine of Palm Beach County.
This project is not only a responsible, forward-looking plan that strengthens our community today, it also preserves long-term value for generations to come.
I hope you will see the vision and opportunity we have by pursuing this plan and join me in voting yes on the ballot question. You can request a mail-in
ballot at votepalmbeach.gov.
Please reach out to me at ssinger@bocaraton-fl. gov with any questions and stay connected on social media at @ScottSingerUSA.
Scott Singer is the 35th Mayor of Boca Raton and was re-elected in 2023. A South Florida native, attorney and small business owner, Scott and his wife, Bella, are proud to raise their two children in Boca Raton.
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When a Sandwich Becomes a Medical Shilah
Reuvain like many bochurim juggling a packed schedule, he moved quickly from one thing to the next, rarely stopping to think twice. That Thursday afternoon, on what should have been a routine errand, one small misstep changed his day entirely.
As he crossed the street near his yeshivah, a car stopped suddenly. Reuvain instinctively threw his arms forward to brace himself. Baruch Hashem, it was not a major accident—no loss of consciousness, no internal injuries—but the impact was enough to fracture both arms. Within hours, he found himself in a hospital room, arms immobilized in heavy casts running down past his palms, leaving only his fingers exposed.
The doctors were reassuring. “You’ll be fine,” they told him. “Just time and patience.” Still, for Reuvain, the reality set in quickly. Simple daily actions—buttoning a shirt, opening a bottle, even eating—were suddenly a challenge.
Sandwich to the rescue
That evening, his close friend Shimi came to visit. Wanting to cheer him up and bring a taste of normalcy, he arrived with Reuvain’s favorite sandwich from Yitzi’s Grill. Reuvain smiled gratefully. After a long, uncomfortable day, it felt like the perfect pick-me-up. Hospital food was no match for Yitzi’s Grill’s famous double buffalo fried onion crispy
steak sandwich.
But as the sandwich was unwrapped and the familiar smell filled the room, Reuvain froze.
“Wait,” he said slowly. “How do I wash?”
Both of them looked at the casts. Washing netilas yadayim suddenly wasn’t so simple.
Shimi didn’t hesitate. “Let’s call the Refuah B’Halacha Center! If you can’t eat this sandwich, then that’s a real medical emergency!”
The call to the rav
They explained the situation to the Rav on the hotline: both arms in casts, palms covered, fingers exposed. The Rav responded that there is a basis to wash only the fingers in such a case. The Shevet HaLevi (chelek 1, siman 44) rules
that when one cannot wash the full hand, washing the accessible part of the hand may be acceptable.
Relieved, Shimi ran to the nurse’s station to ask if Reuvain could wash his fingers at the sink.
The nurse shook her head. In his situation, she explained, if water were to run back into the cast, it could cause medical issues and damage the dressing.
Shimi hurried back and relayed the nurse’s concern to the Rav.
The Rav paused and then gave a practical solution: Reuvain could eat the sandwich with his hands fully covered—such as wearing a plastic glove—so there would be no concern of his hands touching the food.
Shimi then asked thoughtful-
HAND SHMURAH MATZAH
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ly, “What if he eats with a fork? Or what if I wash and feed him?”
The Rav explained that these options still present a concern. Even when eating with utensils, there is a realistic possibility that Reuvain might touch the food. Although the Rema (Orach Chaim 163:1) writes that if one has no water to wash, he may eat using a utensil, the Mishnah Berurah (se’if katan 7) notes that this is problematic, since hands often end up touching the food anyway. Therefore, the best solution in this case is to ensure a clear separation—either by covering the hands or
covering the food—so that there is no chance of direct contact.
Reuvain put on the glove, Shimi handed him the sandwich, and dinner was finally enjoyed—along with a renewed appreciation for how halacha guides us even in the most unexpected moments.
What started as a minor accident became a powerful reminder: halacha is not only a discussion for the beis midrash or the Shabbos table. It walks with us into hospital rooms, meets us in moments of inconvenience, and guides us— even when all we want is a simple sandwich.
At the Refuah B’Halacha Center, we are here to provide guidance for real-life challenges, big and small. Whether it’s a question about Shabbos, kashrus, or navigating difficult personal situations, our experienced Rabbunim are ready to listen and advise. If you ever find yourself wondering about a medical halacha question — big or small, serious or just something that’s been on your mind — remember that you don’t have to figure it out alone. The Refuah B’Halacha Center is here to help, with experienced rabbanim available to guide you through even the most sensitive or confusing situations.
We are here Sunday through Friday 8:00 am till 10:00 pm and erev Shabbos 10 minutes before candle lighting. Refuah B’Halacha Hotline: 732 755 0851 or email us at www. refuahbhalachacenter.org
Biden’s partial embargo that cost Israeli lives
Israel was indeed desperate and he Trump Administration quickly and decisively ended Biden’s partial arms embargo and supplied Israel with all the weapons they needed to fight. Opinion.
By Farley Weiss
In an unprecedented letter on August 2, 2024 that was signed by an extraordinary 48 Republican Senators, the Senators delineated and blasted the Biden Administration’s partial arms embargo against Israel. They noted that the Biden partial arms embargo had been enforced despite bipartisan approval of providing the weapons in question to Israel, especially during times of war.
The letter states: “We write once again to protest your administration’s partial arms embargo against Israel. The actions of the Biden-Harris administration run counter to our long history of robust military cooperation with Israel and cast doubt upon the reliability of the United States as a long-term security partner. Your actions also violate the will of Congress as expressed in the recent supplemental that funded emergency military support to Israel.”
“When Prime Minister Netanyahu publicly raised the weapons hold in June, your administration adamantly denied the accusation (as Hochstein and McGurk are again doing now),” the letter continued. “All the while, you were deliberately delaying the delivery of weapons, ammunition, and equipment to Israel. These include 120 mm tank ammunition, 120 mm mortar ammunition, light tactical vehicles, air-to-air missiles, F-15s, F-35 engines, joint direct attack munition kits, 2,000-pound bombs,
rifles and guided missile systems.”
The letter referenced 10 weapons and equipment sales and shipments that have allegedly been delayed, and points to four instances in which the administration “ignored congressional inquiries.”
The reaction to Prime Minister Netanyahu telling the truth about a partial Arms Embargo against Israel during the Biden Administration was a ridiculous denial from Amos Hochstein and Brett McGurk. Hochstein and McGurk were both top advisors to President Biden.
Hochstein claimed that Netanyahu was being “ungrateful” to the former president. “Netanyahu is both not telling the truth and ungrateful to a president that literally saved Israel at its most vulnerable moment,” the former official told Axios. In a separate post on X, Hochstein charged that after $20 billion in U.S. military support to Israel, the deployment of two aircraft carriers to the region and efforts to help repel Iranian missile and drone attacks, the “only acceptable response” to Biden and America was “thank you.”
McGurk, who told Axios, “That statement by Netanyahu is categorically false.”
“Biden left office with a ceasefire in Gaza and hostages coming home, a ceasefire in Lebanon with Hezbollah defeated, Iran in its weakest position since 1979 after two failed missile attacks thanks
to the deployment of US military forces and a coordinated response that destroyed Iran’s air defenses. His commitment to Israel’s security to include US military assistance was unwavering throughout the crisis,” McGurk said of Biden.
However, what Netanyahu was discussing was exactly what was described in the 48 Senate Republican letter.
It is noteworthy that neither Hochstein or McGurk discuss the actual specifics of the partial arms embargo as described in the Senate Republican letter or attempt to refute it. Instead, they talk about Biden’s laudable actions at the beginning of the war to support Israel and the U.S. help to repel Iranian ballistic missile attacks.
That was not what Netanyahu was discussing.
It is important to note that at the time of the letter there was no specific refutation of the points raised by the Republican letter because it was accurate.
The partial arms embargo cost Israeli lives.
The success of Israel’s fight against Hamas and Hezbollah and Iran was not because of the Biden Administration but in many cases was done in opposition to the views of the Biden Administration.
*The Biden Administration opposed Israel going into Rafah, the operation which led Israel to kill Sinwar and stop Hamas from smuggling arms in from Egypt.
*The Biden Administration opposed Israel killing Nasrallah as it is reported that Biden’s Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin swore at Israel’s Minister of Defense when he was told of Nasrallah’s killing.
*The Biden Administration kept telling Israel to not attack Iran in response to Iran’s attacks on Israel and Israel took out their missile defense system on their own in response to the Iran attack despite the Biden Administration wanting Israel not to respond to the attack.
Israel waited until President Trump was President to crush Iran’s ballistic missile program and with U.S. help their nuclear program as well.
There really is no issue of fact concerning the partial arms embargo as it was delineated in the Republican Senator letter. The issue is why would Hochstein and McGurk deny the reality? Do they not care about their credibility? Apparently not. Their enormous dislike of Netanyahu could be heard through their comments. It is not forgotten that the Biden Administration tried to replace Netanyahu as Israel’s leader during the war. Senate majority leader Schumer’s unprecedented March 14, 2024 speech calling for Netanyahu’s removal as the leader of Israel in the middle of the war would not have happened without the Biden Administration’s approval. Schumer himself said the speech went through many drafts over many weeks before it was given.
The Trump Administration quickly and decisively ended the partial arms embargo and supplied Israel with all the weapons they needed to fight. They further joined Israel in their efforts to destroy Iran’s nuclear weapon program. It is very important to note that all of the hostages have been returned and this only happened (although Israel, of course, did its best) because of the Trump Administration support for Israel bringing the war to Gaza city and it is obvious that the Biden Administration would never have supported Israel taking this action. Hochstein and McGurk should retract their embarrassing statements that the evidence clearly shows to be false.
Prime Minister Netanyahu has repeatedly and publicly said that Israel has had no better friend than President Trump and the contest is not even close. There simply is no comparison as to which Administration has been a better friend to Israel. Prime Minister Netanyahu thanked the Biden Administration for their help but the partial arms embargo did cost Jewish lives while President Trump’s actions bought back the remaining hostages and saved countless Jewish lives.
A woman that was expecting twins went to a Chelmer ultrasound.
She said, "Don' t tell me what they are."
The ultrasound said, "I won' t tell you, but I'll tell you this. They are not the same." .
What did the Chelmer fill in for ' Salary expected' on a job application? ' Yes'.
A mother was walking with her baby in the stroller, and there were shopping bags hanging of f the handles. She picked up her baby and the stroller went flying backwards.
A Chelmer watching said, "you took him out just in time!"
Brought to you by Uncle Benjy, author of Laughter is the best medicine: Kosher and Jewish jokes for the whole family, volumes one and two, and Jewish Joke Book for Kids, volumes one and two, available on Amazon; search “Uncle Benjy ” on Amazon.
Farley Weiss is the past President of The National Council of Young Israel and an intellectual property attorney for the law firm of Weiss & Moy.
The Grand Klezmer Concert
Many have titled this as “The Event of a Lifetime!”
Zevy Steiger and Aryeh Leib Hurwitz, two world-renowned chazzanim and the Heavy Shtetle Klezmer Band will delight South Florida with authentic Klezmer, Yiddish and other great Jewish music! Both cantors, together with this spectacular group of musicians will rock the house with their magnificent voices, and extraordinary musical talent.
United Jewish Generations, a Chabad organization whose mission is to enhance the quality of life for the Jewish senior citizen population, is proud to present this “out-of-this-world” concert, which is a true delicacy of musical ecstasy enjoyed by all ages, but especially seniors.
For those unfamiliar with the term “Klezmer,” just think of Fiddler on the Roof-style music. Lively, traditional and nostalgic music played at Jewish celebrations over the last century. It will bring back heartwarming and cherished memories of the past.
“We want everyone to be able to enjoy this beautiful music with the highest caliber musicians and cantors, and we therefore provide the most incredible entertainment, and yet we offer tickets at a price everyone can afford,” says Rabbi Menachem Smith, director of United Jewish Generations. The vast majority of seats are priced at only $20, and that is unheard of for this type of a concert!
The performance will take place on Sunday, February 15th at 2 p.m. at the Julius Littman Performing Arts Theatre at 17011 NE 19th Ave
in North Miami Beach.
Tickets can be purchased online at: www.JewishRetiree.com or in North Miami Beach/Aventura at Aspaclaria Judaica (Ticket Sales from 10AM-2PM ONLY) at 18240 West Dixie Highway. Tickets can also be purchased in Miami Beach at Torah Treasures at 524 W. 41st Street.
If you need help purchasing tickets (or for transportation to the concert,) please call: (954) 4586000. Seats are priced at $20, $36, and $50. Sponsors of $180 or more, can choose their seats in the front two rows. Please be aware that the theatre has a rule that anyone with a walker or a cane must buy seats
in the lower section only, because the upper section requires climbing stairs.
This group of exceptional Klezmerists includes internationally acclaimed Clarinetist Jaime Bronsztein from the Jaime Bronsztein Klezmer Band, Chaim Rubinov from the Klezmer Company Jazz Orchestra, Richi Shapiro from Tekiah Orchestra, and other incredible Klezmerists.
Attendees are encouraged to buy tickets early to attain the best seats, and also keep in mind that this event has sold out in the past! For more info, please email: admin@unitedjewishgenerations. com or call: (954) 458-6000.
COMPLETION OF THE RAMBAM
In a remarkable & inspiring display of unity, approxamitely 300 people including Rabbis from almost every Shul in Hollywood gathered at The Jewish Center, led by Rabbi Shmaya Waks to celebrate the completion of the Rambam. In attendance were Rabbis Weinstock, Parnes, Korf, Pinhasov, Itzchakov, Benshimon, Feldman, Araki, Follman, Claman, Botton, Avitan, Benitta, Asayag, Shahino,Frankel, Edry, Sharabani, Ezagui, Ekstine, Nasrati, Amar Many took on themselves the daily study. 10 sets of English Rambams were distributed! To help cover the cost of this event please contact Rabbi Shmaya on 954-732-4286
SATMER TU BESHVAT
Teach Coalition Applauds Florida for Opting In to the Federal Scholarship Tax Credit Program, Urges Additional States to Follow
Miami, FL — Teach Coalition today applauded Governor Ron DeSantis for Florida’s decision to opt in to the Federal Scholarship Tax Credit Program, calling it another major step forward in helping families manage rising education costs while expanding access to educational opportunity.
Florida now joins Nevada as one of the states where Teach Coalition operates that has chosen to participate in the federal initiative. The program provides a federal tax credit for donations to nonprofit scholarship-granting organizations, which then help families cover a range of education-related expenses. For many Jewish families, who prioritize day school education and often face significant tuition commitments, this added layer of support can be especially meaningful.
“This program gives governors a clear and responsible way to bring federal education dollars home to families who are feeling real financial pressure, without adding strain to state budgets,” said Sydney Altfield, CEO of Teach Coalition. “We appreciate Governor DeSantis’ leadership in ensuring Florida families benefit from this opportunity. Florida’s decision shows that leaders can act now to support students and families in a way that is practical, fiscally responsible, and focused on affordability.”
Teach Coalition has been working across multiple states to encourage governors to opt in to the program, highlighting its role as a common-
sense affordability solution for families. With Nevada and Florida now participating, the organization is calling on additional states where it operates—including New York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Maryland, and California—and on Democratic governors across the country to follow suit.
While Republican governors have traditionally supported policies like this, Teach Coalition noted that the Federal Tax Credit Scholarship Program uniquely aligns with Democratic priorities around affordability and economic relief for families.
In Florida, Teach Coalition’s advocacy has focused on ensuring families understand how federal participation can expand support for education-related costs beyond tuition alone.
“Florida families are working hard to give their children every opportunity to succeed,” said Melissa Glaser, Executive Director of Teach Florida. “Opting in to
the Federal Tax Credit Scholarship Program brings additional resources into our state and gives families more flexibility as they plan for their children’s education. Our work does not end here — we will continue informing our community and providing families with the tools and guidance they need to make the most of this new opportunity.”
Teach Florida leadership recently met with Governor Ron DeSantis to discuss how this program will benefit Jewish families across the state. The conversation reflected the importance of continued partnership between state leaders and community organizations working to strengthen safe and sustainable Jewish education.
“Families everywhere are facing higher costs, and education is no exception,” Altfield added. “We hope more governors will take this step and make sure their states are not left behind.”
From Left to Right, Teach FL Executive Board Members Zalmi Khan, Stephen Lobell, Daniel Aqua Chair of the Executive Board, Melissa Glaser Executive Director Teach Florida, Gov. Desantis, Executive Board Members, Steven Jacoby and Yossi Rosengarten, advocated for Florida’s inclusion in the program two weeks ago at the governor’s mansion in Tallahassee. Credit: Teach FL
How AI technology is helping to bring Jewish babies into the world A Discussion Hosted by PUAH: Where Reproductive Technology and Halacha Meet
As Torah Jews, we are instructed to enjoy the blessings of this world, within the parameters of halacha. Yet while we know where to turn to determine if our food is kosher, how do we know about the kashrus of a cutting-edge medical technology?
That’s where PUAH comes in.
“For me, the biggest privilege in working for PUAH – as meaningful as it is to help bring Jewish babies into the world – is the opportunity to see the eternal wisdom of Hashem’s Torah,” says Lea Davidson, executive director of PUAH USA. “Every time a new technology comes out and our PUAH rabbanim find exactly where this case is discussed in our halachic literature, I’m inspired all over again.”
Discovering halachically acceptable ways to use complex medical technologies is exactly why PUAH was founded.
When the first IVF baby was born in 1978, the assumption in the Torah-observant world was that the serious halachic issues posed by this revolutionary technology made it forbidden. But Rav Mordechai Eliyahu ztz”l insisted that if Hashem gave us the wisdom to develop a technology, it’s our job to research it and determine how it may be used in a halachically-acceptable way. He charged his close talmid, Rav Menachem Burstein, shlita, with this task. Thus, PUAH was born – opening the door for thousands of Jewish couples to
NIGHT GREEN on the
THE LAUNCH OF PUAH’S FLORIDA
SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 22ND • TOPGOLF POMPANO
been identified, but after sequencing its entire genome, they’ve discovered that their daughter will develop rheumatoid arthritis at age 40. Should the doctor edit out this gene?
Such a scenario is only a few years from reality, according to Dr. Alan Copperman, FACOG, Managing Director and CEO of RMA
doctor anxiously. Is there hope? He listens carefully, asks questions, and enters the information into his computer. The machine runs the data through its system, analyzing every facet of this couple’s medical background, and spits out a response.
“Here’s your customized treatment protocol,” says the doctor.
SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 22ND • TOPGOLF POMPANO BEACH • 8-10PM
COMMUNITY NEWS
“Your highest statistical shot of having a baby.”
For couples who know the agony of the fertility journey, the roller coaster of hopes rising only to be dashed once again, this scenario may sound like a pipe dream. Yet, thanks to modern technology, such precision-targeted treatments are increasingly happening.
Welcome to the wonders of artificial intelligence – the latest frontier in the rapidly-evolving field of fertility medicine.
“Back in the 90s my surgical training involved sewing tubes together with sutures,” relates Dr. Copperman. “Today, no one’s doing tubal surgery. We threw out our sutures and went to laparoscopy. Then we threw out the laparoscopes and went to robotics. We threw out the robots to do surgery in a dish. Now we’re talking about using molecular scalpels to edit the genome. I read sci fi as a kid but I never thought we’d be where we are now.”
He adds, “We’ve gone from studying cells and organ systems to subcellular to genetics. Today, we’ve moved beyond the genome into big data, looking at zeros and ones, at mathematical models to drive treatment. And this infinite universe of information will drive us into the next century.”
AI in Action
What does this mean practically?
“When a couple comes in, we start with the simple questions. Sometimes, simple, low-tech solutions like pills are all that’s needed. But when it’s more complex, that’s where the magic begins, as science and technology translate into helping to create human lives.”
AI, he says, optimizes every aspect of the treatment process. Unlike the trial-and-error that has characterized IVF until now, AI analyzes the data of millions of patients to discover what worked best with patients whose full medical picture most closely aligns with yours. What medication protocol did they use? What dosage? On which days? It can also determine the most optimal lab conditions –the perfect air quality, culture media, PH levels, incubators, etc. - for your specific embryo to successfully develop.
Rabbi Segelman noted that the description of AI’s big data system reminded him of PUAH. “This is what we do as an organization. When a couple calls us for advice, we access our many years of experience helping thousands of couples to advise them which doctor to speak to, which treatment to pursue, helping them create the optimal plan.”
Dr. Copperman explained that this highly tailored tool takes into account all individualized factors – not just the patient’s age, BMI and hormone levels, but also their personal goals. “Someone who’s 26 and wants one child will need a completely different journey than someone who’s 38 and wants five children.”
He added that AI can even help frum patients avoid Shabbos egg retrievals – earning him applause from Rabbi Segelman. “We’ve used machine learning to help us optimize days of the week so that the patient’s retrieval will fall out on a day that makes her comfortable.”
We’ve only scratched the surface of AI’s capabilities, which Dr. Copperman says are being developed as we speak – for example, in
the above-mentioned area of gene editing. “We’re already seeing the potential with technologies like CRISPR, a ridiculously cool technology where we can basically do a ‘find and replace’ on the cellular level, substituting abnormal parts of the nucleotide sequence – say, that which causes Tay Sachs – for normal ones. I believe we’re only a few years away from being able to do this on the embryonic level, editing the entire genome.”
Discussing the seeming limitless potential of AI begs the same question that has been raised in other fields: Is there a fear that machines will replace fertility doctors?
“Only if we lose our heart and our compassion,” Dr. Copperman says. “Computers haven’t quite figured that one out yet. Medicine isn’t just about processing data; it’s about listening to the patients, hearing their goals, their concerns, their dreams, making sure their needs are met.”
In other words, we need to feel cared for. To feel that there’s someone at our side who’s not just capable of harnessing the universe’s infinite information to give us our longed-for baby, but will hold our hands along the journey.
That’s what PUAH is here for.
As we prepare for Purim, a period of revealed miracles, let’s know above all that our Father is all powerful, that He has given us the miracle of medical technology, that He will always carry us through our life’s journey, and that yeshuos can come in the blink of an eye.
May this year be the year.
Contact PUAH: Rabbi Elan Segelman , Rabbinic Director USA Questions@puahfertility.org 888.993.7824
A Ramming Attack the Jewish World Cannot Ignore
When I watched the video of the car ramming into the World Chabad Headquarters, I was horrified—not only by the act itself, but by how easy it was to carry out.
In today’s antisemitic climate, violence against Jewish institutions is no longer shocking. What is shocking is how vulnerable a prominent Jewish institution appeared to be. There was nothing— no physical barrier, no visible deterrent—that prevented a single individual from turning a vehicle into a weapon.
I immediately went into soldier mode. After years in the Army, I’m conditioned to conduct an After-Action Review (AAR) after any mission, exercise, or incident: What happened? Why did it happen? And how do we prevent it from happening again?
The answer here was disturbingly simple. Nothing prevented it. I consider it a miracle that no one was killed or injured – thank G-d! Yet we Jews must never rely on miracles. As I watched the footage again, the questions kept coming. What if the vehicle had been packed with explosives? What if this had been a VBIED—a vehicle-borne improvised explosive device – the same tactic that killed thousands of American troops in Iraq and Afghanistan? What if the driver had exited the car armed with automatic weapons and hundreds of rounds of ammunition?
These are not far-fetched scenarios. These types of attacks have taken place in the past against
By Yonatan Zagdanski
Jewish institutions.
What struck me next was equally troubling: when the driver exited the vehicle, not a single trained security professional intervened. Everyone waited for the police to arrest him. The implicit message was clear—the people at the scene were completely dependent on authorities for protection.
It is important to cooperate and collaborate with local authorities, but we should never completely outsource our security to local authorities. Jews should be protecting Jews as per the Talmudic phrase: “All of Israel is responsible for each other (Kol yisrael arevim zeh bazeh) – Tractate Shavuot 39a.
Effective security means adopting a mindset long understood by the US Military: force protection. Force protection is the set of measures used to safeguard personnel and facilities from attack. It includes deterrence, physical barriers, access control, training, and clear procedures. It is not reactive; it is constant.
In the Army, security is governed by standing operating procedures—SOPs—that cannot be waived for convenience or comfort. Visitors are screened. Vehicles are kept at a distance using barriers or cement blocks. Security is routine, visible, and sometimes inconvenient. That is precisely why it works and why it should be implemented in all Jewish institutions (synagogues, schools, etc.) Simple measures – vehicle barriers, trained guards, access control
during peak hours – dramatically reduce risk.
So why hasn’t this happened everywhere already? The reasons are familiar. Security costs money. And community leaders often worry that visible security will make people uncomfortable, nervous, or fearful. It is easier to project normalcy than to acknowledge risk. But pretending everything is fine is not only naïve, it also endangers people’s lives.
If Jewish communities from New York to Paris, London to Sydney wish to continue flourishing—not merely surviving—security must be treated as a critical requirement, not an optional expense or a temporary response to tragedy. That means investing in training, implementing clear procedures, hardening buildings against vehicle attacks and active shooter scenarios, and ensuring that Jewish institutions are no longer soft targets.
The ramming attack at Chabad HQ should be a wake-up call heard across the Jewish world. We were spared the worst this time. We may not be spared next time.
The Citizen Defenders initiative trains volunteers in Israel and abroad to become first responders in case of terror attacks. For info, contact, or to get involved, visit https://citizen-defenders.org/main
Brother of Oct. 7 Hostage Hostage Leads Emotional Tribute as Miami Leaders Mobilize For Israel’s “Next Phase” Of Recovery
In a stirring display of resilience, Tuval Haim, the brother of Yotam Haim (z”l) took the stage Sunday night at the La’Aretz Foundation Annual Benefit, uniting a sold-out crowd of Jewish leaders and diplomats in a pledge to rebuild Israeli lives.
Held at the Ritz-Carlton Bal Harbour, the evening marked a strategic pivot for the foundation. La’Aretz announced the expansion of its Emergency Grant Fund, a rapid-response financial initiative designed to bypass bureaucracy and deliver immediate cash aid to displaced families, widowed mothers, and children facing the longterm economic and mental health fallout of the war.
Israeli families supported by La’Aretz Foundation were in attendance, sharing firsthand perspectives on the impact of the organization’s work.
The evening’s defining moment came when Tuval Haim performed a musical tribute to his late brother, a fellow drummer who was taken hostage from Kibbutz Kfar Aza on October 7. Yotam was held hostage in Gaza and was accidentally killed by IDF forces while attempting to escape captivity. Yosef Weiss also performed, offering music deeply influenced by his personal experiences of loss and his strong connection to faith and tradition.
“We are moving from a state of emergency to a state of rebuilding, but the crisis for individual families is far from over,” said Shelly and Mike Pitman, founders of La’Aretz. “Tonight proved that the
bond between Florida and Israel is not just symbolic- it is an operational lifeline. When a reservist loses their business or a family loses their home, we are the ones who fill the gap, usually within 48 hours.”
Dignitaries Unite for “Zero-Bureaucracy” Aid
The event drew high-profile support from local and international officials who praised La’Aretz for its agile, direct-to-bank-account aid model, which has already supported over 1000 families and mobilized $11 million in philanthropic support.
Miami Beach Mayor Steven Meiner, who was in Israel and sent a video message, addressed the crowd, stressing the critical role of private philanthropy in areas where government aid is delayed.
The foundation also honored former Israeli Consul General in Miami Maor Elbaz-Starinsky in recognition of his contributions to the Jewish and Israeli community in Florida.
Impact by the Numbers
In 2025 alone, La’Aretz:
• Assisted over 650 households with direct financial grants.
• Awarded 40+ academic scholarships to combat reservists.
• Launched the “Share the Light” campaign, funding Bar/Bat Mitzvahs for children of evacuees.
Proceeds from Sunday’s benefit will immediately fund the 2026 allocation for the Emergency Grant Fund, targeting widowed families and long-term rehabilitation for injured civilians.
ABOUT LA’ARETZ FOUNDATION:
La’Aretz Foundation provides direct, rapid, and low-bureaucracy assistance to Israelis in crisis. In just three years, La’Aretz has become a trusted partner to families and communities throughout Israel, delivering emergency cash grants, scholarships, and holistic care in partnership with municipalities, hospitals, and other organizations. To date, La’Aretz has supported 1000 families with urgent relief and mobilized more than $11 million in philanthropic support. La’Aretz is unique in that we step in where government support is lacking or where no other organization operates. La’Aretz stands at the critical intersection between local authorities in Israel and the Jewish diaspora abroad, ensuring that aid is delivered swiftly, directly, and with dignity
inSIGHT Through Education Announces Winners of the Kindness Social Media Contest on Holocaust Remembrance Day
On Tuesday, January 27, 2026, coinciding with International Holocaust Remembrance Day, inSIGHT Through Education proudly announced the winners of its Chesed Social Media Contest. This student-driven initiative empowered middle and high school students across Palm Beach County to utilize their online presence to combat antisemitism, bullying, and discrimination through the lens of kindness and compassion.
This year’s contest saw an extraordinary turnout, with 364 students submitting more than 250 original entries. Participants were challenged to create engaging content—ranging from short-form videos to multi-slide Instagram carousels—that promoted acceptance and respect. Inspired by the Hebrew concept of chesed—acts of loving-kindness rooted in moral responsibility— the contest honors moments of human compassion that endured even amid the Holocaust’s darkest chapters.
“By researching acts of moral courage and kindness during the Holocaust, these students showed how individual decisions to help others mattered then—and continue to matter today. Congratulations to the winners and my sincere appreciation to every student, teacher and school that participated.” said Roneet Edrich, Executive Director of inSIGHT Through Education.
Entries were judged on their
Research, Messaging, Creativity, Impact and Technical Quality in addressing hate with empathy. A total of 12 prizes were awarded across middle and high school categories, with first-place winners receiving $1,000, second-place $500, and third-place $300.
2026 Chesed Social Media Contest Winners
First Place ($1,000):
• Avani Patel – Bak Middle School of the Arts
• Ryan Corritori & Drew Sukhu –Independence Middle School
• Paige Eitches & Skylar Reynolds – Spanish River Community High School
• Elias Contreras – Wellington Community High School
• Keerith Mahal – Spanish River Community High School
Second Place ($500):
• Ryder McClure – Woodlands Middle School
• Sofia Berkeczi, Kylie Brinks & Kaveera Gajjar – Independence Middle School
• Jaime Saintfort – Wellington Community High School
• Layla Mayer & Amy Sadowsky
– Spanish River Community High School
Third Place ($300):
• Long Nguyen & Noah Steiner –Independence Middle School
• Kylie Crosby & Stephanie Ferrufino – Woodlands Middle School
• Serafina DiGirolamo – Span-
ish River Community High School
• Gianni Molina – Wellington Community High School
An awards ceremony to honor the winners will take place in the spring of 2026. Further details regarding the event will be released in the coming weeks.
About inSIGHT Through Education
inSIGHT Through Education is a nonprofit, nonsectarian organization with a mission to inspire and educate, encouraging kindness, acceptance, and respect for all, using lessons learned from the Holocaust and other genocides, to recognize and oppose antisemitism, hatred, and bigotry. inSIGHT is the backbone of Holocaust Education in Palm Beach County Schools, which is mandated in Florida, along with the study of antisemitism. inSIGHT knows that education is the key to change and is committed to opening the hearts and minds of young people, our future leaders. Learn more at insightthrougheducation. org
About the School District of Palm Beach County
Palm Beach County School District is the tenth largest in the nation and the fifth largest in the State of Florida serving more than 193,000 students (this number includes students that attend non-District operated Charter Schools) who speak 150 languages and dialects. The School District is the largest employer in Palm Beach County.
KIDS ZONE KIDS ZONE
YOU KNOW THAT...
FACTS ABOUT WHEN IT’S COLD IN FLORIDA DID
1. Manatees must find warm water to survive. Manatees cannot tolerate cold water. When temperatures drop below about 68°F (20°C), they swim to natural springs or warm-water areas to prevent a dangerous condition called cold stress.
2. Iguanas become inactive because they are cold-blooded. Iguanas cannot regulate their own body temperature. In cold weather, their bodies slow down, muscles stiffen, and they may fall from trees—but they usually recover when it warms up.
3. Alligators use a survival behavior called “icing”. During very cold weather, alligators float in water with only their nostrils above the surface. This allows them to breathe while conserving energy.
4. Sea turtles can become ‘cold-stunned’. When ocean temperatures drop suddenly, sea turtles may become weak and float at the surface. Wildlife rescuers often step in to help warm and rehabilitate them.
5. Fish move to deeper or warmer water. Cold water near the surface can be dangerous for fish. They swim deeper where temperatures are more stable and safer.
6. Many birds migrate to Florida for winter. Florida becomes a winter home for birds escaping freezing temperatures in northern states, making it a major stop along migration routes.
7. Snakes and lizards hide to conserve heat. Reptiles reduce movement and seek shelter underground, under rocks, or in burrows to stay warm and safe.
8. Butterflies and insects become inactive. Cold weather slows insect life cycles. Some butterflies migrate, while others hide until temperatures rise.
9. Mammals change their behavior, not their fur. Animals like raccoons and opossums don’t hibernate, but they sleep more and forage less to conserve energy.
10. Cold weather in Florida is short but impactful. Even brief cold snaps can affect wildlife behavior, feeding, and movement— showing how sensitive Florida ecosystems are to temperature changes.
KIDS ZONE KIDS ZONE
SUDOKU
Complete the sudoku.
You must only use each image once per row, column, and two-by-three grid.
UNSCRAMBLE THE FOLLOWING WORDS RELATED TO FLORIDA WILDLIFE
EEMTNAAA
AUNGAI
LATORLAGI
RTLEUTT AES
PESSNKA
Shivat HaMinim Salad
By Jamie Geller
Ingredients
• 3 cups cooked barley or Israeli couscous
• 1/4 cup dried figs chopped or 3 fresh figs, quartered
• 1/4 cup pitted dates sliced in rings or chopped
• 1/4 cup seedless grapes halved
• 1/4 cup pomegranate seeds
• 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
• 1 tablespoon country Dijon mustard
• 1/4 cup wheat and barley nuggets cereal such as GrapeNuts, optional
• 2 tablespoons parsley leaves torn
Preparation
1. Combine barley, figs, dates, grapes and pomegranate seeds in a large bowl.
2. Place oil, honey, vinegar and mustard in a small bowl and whisk to combine. Pour dressing over barley salad and toss to coat well.
3. Just before serving add cereal and toss to evenly distribute. Garnish with parsley leaves.
Jamie Geller is the Chief Media and Marketing Officer at Aish. She is also a bestselling cookbook author, celebrity chef, television producer, and businesswoman. She’s the author of eight cookbooks and the founder of Kosher Media Network.
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The Mistakes Families Make After Making Aliyah And How Thoughtful Planning Can Prevent Them
By Glen R. Golish
For many families, making Aliyah is the fulfillment of a lifelong dream. The focus is on the move itself, schools, housing, community and building a new life in Israel.
What often gets less attention is what happens financially after the move.
At G Wealth Strategies, we regularly speak with families who have already made Aliyah and later realize that certain financial decisions would have been handled very differently had they known what to expect. The intention is never to criticize those choices. Most of them are completely understandable. But they are also often avoidable.
Here are some of the most common challenges families encounter after Aliyah and what can be done differently with the right planning.
Waiting Too Long to Address Financial Structure
One of the biggest challenges we see is delay.
Families are understandably busy during their first year in Israel. Financial decisions get postponed while daily life settles. Unfortunately, some opportunities are time-sensitive and waiting can limit flexibility.
Changes in residency, reporting obligations and access to U.S. financial institutions can occur faster than expected. Planning early does not mean rushing decisions. It means preserving options.
Discovering Restrictions on U.S. Accounts
Many families are surprised to learn that once a foreign address is added to a U.S. account, certain brokerage firms restrict transactions or discontinue services altogether.
IRAs, 401(k)s and taxable investment accounts may still exist but access and flexibility can change. Families often discover this only when they attempt to make a transaction and are told it is no longer permitted.
This does not mean accounts must be closed, but it does mean they should be reviewed and positioned intentionally before Aliyah.
Treating Israeli and U.S. Planning as Separate Worlds
Another common issue is treating Israeli finances and U.S. finances as two unrelated systems.
In reality, they are deeply connected. U.S. citizens living in Israel remain subject to U.S. tax rules. Certain Israeli investment products can create unintended U.S. tax exposure. At the same time,
Israeli residency introduces new reporting and compliance considerations.
Without coordination, well-intentioned decisions on one side can create problems on the other.
Overlooking Liquidity in the Early Years
Many families making Aliyah are asset-rich but cash-light. Real estate, retirement accounts and long-term investments may represent significant wealth, yet not be easily accessible during the transition years. Unexpected expenses, currency differences and lifestyle adjustments can strain liquidity.
Planning ahead helps families understand where cash flow will come from and how to avoid being forced into rushed decisions at inopportune times.
Assuming Estate Documents Automatically Carry Over
Estate planning is often viewed as “done” once documents are signed in the U.S. In practice, relocation changes the context.
Israeli inheritance law, U.S. estate tax considerations, beneficiary designations and powers of attorney should all be reviewed after a move. This is not about rewriting everything. It is about alignment. Jewish tradition emphasizes emet v’seder, truth and order. Clear, coordinated planning helps preserve peace within the family when it matters most.
REAL ESTATE & FINANCE
Missing the Value of Coordination
The families who experience the smoothest transitions are rarely those with the most complex plans. They are the ones with the most coordinated ones.
When financial advisors, CPAs and legal counsel are aligned, decisions are clearer and unintended consequences are reduced. At G Wealth Strategies, we often serve as the central point of coordination, helping ensure that each professional’s work supports the overall strategy.
Planning Does Not End After the Move
Aliyah planning is not a onetime event.
The first year, the fifth year, and the tenth year after Aliyah all pres-
ent different considerations. Tax rules evolve. Reporting requirements change. Family needs shift.
A thoughtful plan adapts over time while remaining compliant and intentional.
A Final Thought
Aliyah is a powerful and meaningful step. Financial planning should never overshadow that purpose. When done correctly, it supports it.
The families who look back most confidently on their transition are those who planned early, asked thoughtful questions and surrounded themselves with experienced guidance.
With clarity and coordination, Aliyah can be not only a meaningful move but a financially confident one as well.
About the Author
Glen R. Golish is the Founder and CEO of G Wealth Strategies and a Forbes-recognized Top Financial Security Professional. He works closely with families on comprehensive financial and estate planning, including cross-border considerations for those navigating U.S. and Israeli planning needs.
Important Disclaimer
Please seek qualified legal and tax advice before implementing any planning strategies, in conjunction with guidance from G Wealth Strategies.
Contact Information
3010 N. Military Trail, Suite 318, Boca Raton, FL 33431 Office: 561-869-4600 | Cell: 561-239-9400
Every year during the Super Bowl, I notice the same thingpeople love to talk about the star player, the big play, or the one moment that changed the game. But when the dust settles, and the interviews start, the message from the winners is always the same. Nobody did this alone. They talk about protection, preparation, trust, and people doing their jobs when it mattered. That’s not humility for the cameras, it’s what they truly believe.
What makes team sports so compelling is that they expose a truth we often ignore in real life. Success isn’t about having one great performer. It’s about practice. It’s about coordination. It’s about timing. And most importantly, it’s about knowing who does what and when. One weak link doesn’t just slow things down, it breaks the entire system. That’s why even the most talented athletes in the world still need the right people around them to win.
That same principle applies directly to finance and real estate, whether people like to admit it or not. Buying a home, restructuring debt, building investments, or planning for the long-term are not solo decisions. Yet many people insist on treating them that way. They rely on one opinion, one professional, or worse, no professional at all. Then they’re surprised when things feel disjointed or when a decision creates problems they didn’t anticipate.
I see this constantly. Someone
comes in thinking the conversation is about a mortgage, but it turns out the bigger issue is how everything else fits together. Income, liabilities, future plans, risk exposure, estate considerations, etc. When those pieces aren’t aligned, even a good rate or a decent investment won’t feel like a win. Financial progress doesn’t come from one move. It comes from making sure the moves work together.
Many of my conversations are with homeowners who locked in very low mortgage rates years ago. There’s often nothing to do from a refinancing perspective, and I’m very direct about that. But those discussions almost always uncover something else. Outdated insurance coverage. No estate plan. Cash sitting idle without purpose. Opportunities that were never addressed because life is often on autopilot. Routine has a way of masking inefficiency.
That’s where teamwork really brings value. Not in generating something new, but in making sure the entire picture is interconnected. Sometimes the most valuable thing I can offer someone is not a transaction, but a connection. The right estate attorney. A financial planner who understands their situation. Someone who can review risk and coverage properly. Those conversations don’t feel urgent, but they are foundational. They prevent future problems instead of masking them.
The people who handle money
best aren’t trying to master every detail themselves. They know where they add value and where they don’t. They are the people who surround themselves with teammates they trust and encourage open candor. They understand that delegation is not avoidance. It’s strategy.
Winning, whether in sports or finances, isn’t about being the unsung hero. It’s about putting yourself in a position where the team playbook works even when things don’t go as rehearsed. That only happens when the right people are involved and communicating comfortably.
So as the big game approaches, it’s worth asking yourself something simple. Are you trying to make your biggest financial decisions on your own, or have you built a team that actually gives you a chance to win long term?
Shmuel Shayowitz (NMLS#19871) is a highly regarded Real Estate & Finance Executive, Writer, Speaker, Coach, and Advisor. He is President and Chief Lending Officer of Approved Funding, a privately held national mortgage banker and direct lender that has facilitated over $3 billion in mortgage funding. Shmuel has over twenty years of industry experience and holds numerous licenses and accreditations, including certified mortgage underwriter, licensed real estate agent, residential review appraiser, and accredited investor, to name a few. Shmuel has successfully navigated through many changing markets and business landscapes, making his market insights and experience well-coveted within the real estate industry. He can be reached via email at Shmuel@ approvedfunding.com.
