On November 11th, the Yeshivah of Flatbush Joel Braverman High School (JBHS) had an open house for 8th graders and their parents. An abundance of families from Brooklyn and the entire metropolitan area were greeted by current high school student volunteers and given Flatbush materials emblazoned with the yeshivah’s logo.

The volunteers guided the prospective students and their parents on tours of the new state-of-the-art North building, which includes the Stein Student Commons, the Library, and the BenHaim Bet Midrash, as they happily shared their experiences and the many reasons why they love attending JBHS.

The guests enjoyed coffee and refreshments in the cafe area, while mingling with principals and faculty. The main program began in the Khezrie Auditorium, where the yeshivah’s administration addressed a standing-room-only crowd. Head of School Rabbi Dr. Raymond Harari offered a d’var Torah that explained how the Yeshivah of Flatbush follows the example of Yaakov Avinu, who was a spiritual student of Torah, as well as an active member of society. Rabbi Harari pointed out that YoF students, too, are deeply committed Jews who engage in high level secular studies.

Principal Rabbi Joseph Beyda reflected on the yeshivah’s mission to inspire, challenge, and support its students so each and every one of them will grow into an adult with Torah values, good character, compassion, scholarship, and commitment to Israel, the Jewish people, and people everywhere. He also discussed how YoF empowers its graduates to be world changers.

Dean of Students Rabbi Naftali Besser introduced an exciting video that gave everyone a glimpse into what makes the school unique. It opened with scenes of students enjoying the new building, illustrating how the space enhances the way students explore their passions and pursue educational goals. It also included testimony from students, parents, and faculty that emphasized how JBHS teaches students about careers and leads them to career opportunities, how it encourages them to continue their educations throughout their lives, and to contribute in every way they can.

Associate Principal Sari Bacon highlighted the distinctive energy of Flatbush academic and extracurricular programs and introduced alumnus Michael Franco (HS 2013), a current medical student. Michael recalled how he immediately felt at home at YoF, despite the fact that he came from another school. He also described how the school gave him the intellectual and academic tools to succeed in college, yeshivah in Israel, and medical school.

Assistant Principal and Director of Admissions Esther Hidary spoke about all the ways students participate in meaningful programs and projects. She noted that JBHS students are encouraged to become leaders.
The open house continued in the classrooms; prospective students and their parents chose two mini-lessons from a range of subjects including general studies, Judaic studies, STEM, art and hesed.

Students then proceeded to the Laniado Auxiliary Gym where they explored the Student Activities Fair and athletic teams. High school commissioners of various extracurricular programs discussed their activities and answered questions. A video showcasing the school’s sports teams displayed what a Flatbush Falcon looks like in action. At the same time, parents learned about the Pathfinders Career Program, the high school guidance department, the SAFE program, as well as college guidance.

The open house concluded with a lavish, abundant and delicious meal, over which prospective students and parents talked with administrators, faculty, and YoF students to learn more about the diversity of Flatbush life—in and out of the classroom. They gained a greater understanding of why the school’s motto is “Four Years for the Rest of Your Life.”

Every year, towards the end of the summer, there’s a trip that lots of people look forward to. It begins in Deal, where approximately 100 men and women board a bus—but they know, even before they get on the road that it’s not going to be a boring bus ride. They know there will be people telling jokes and lots of laughter. Then, before they know it, they’ll arrive in Atlantic City.

While going to AC is fun, there’s a better reason for this trip than gambling. The participants do it to raise funds for ORT, an organization that began in Russia in 1880 to help lift Russia’s five million Jews out of crushing poverty. They called it the Organization for Rehabilitation through Training (ORT). The trip to AC was through ORT America, the leading fundraising organization for World ORT.

Thanks to Joyce Dwek for coordinating the fun fund-raising trip with the assistance of Sally Shamah, Louise Zalayet, and bus helpers Norma Rezak and Florence Schneider.

Grandparents anticipate the arrival of grandchildren, and to a lesser extent, aunts and uncles look forward to the arrival of nieces and nephews. Perhaps for that reason, a special needs diagnosis can be devastating and painful for grandparents and other family members.

For grandparents, the birth of a grandchild with special needs, may also be the death of a dream of the perfect grandchild. Before you recoil in horror at these words, think of the parents who eagerly count their newborns fingers and toes only to be dealt the blow that their children are anything but normal. Think of the average person bragging “my son the doctor” or “my granddaughter the singer.”
We pray for healthy children, but that’s not always the reality, and it’s the new reality that parents and grandparents must learn how to adjust to. For these parents, grandparents, aunts, uncles, and other family members to grasp the joys and difficulties of raising a child with special needs, they must let go of their subconscious or conscious plans for the child’s life.

It is normal to feel sad or angry, as we are filled with love for this tiny baby. Acknowledging one’s feelings, and grieving for the loss of that dream, may make it easier to cope with the reality of being the extended family of a child with special needs. Grandparents, aunts and uncles should be there to support the baby’s parents in every way.
Learn—one of the most important things that family members can do is learn about the child’s disability, or special needs. The Internet is a great source of information, as well as misinformation, so be careful, because it may not be as accurate as you think.
Begin with sources like hospitals, doctors, and advocacy organizations such as C.A.R.E. for Special Children. Go with the child to his/her doctors’ appointments, and listen carefully to what the doctor says, and ask questions. You and the parents are now learning a very specialized language. The more you know, the easier it will be to converse. Learning is important for emotional health as well, the more you know, the more confident you will feel in your ability to help.Listen—even the most discreet family members sometimes find it difficult to keep from offering unsolicited opinions and advice, but therapists and social workers agree that listening to your children, the child’s parents, and validating what they feel is more important than offering advice. Grandparents and well-meaning family members need to take their cues from the child’s parents. You may not always agree with their decisions, but they are theirs to make.

Support from grandparents and other family’s members is crucial for helping the parents cope. By listening and ascertaining the needs of the child, the grandparents can learn where to place themselves in the care/decision making and discussions.
Family members who want to be involved in the child’s care and life, can and should make the effort, by offering non-judgmental assistance, or by not saying or doing anything at all, but just being there for the child and parents. While there is no “how to” list for grandparents or parents, there are several tried and true approaches. They have the potential to add positively to the parents and special child’s life.

Spend time with the child. If the baby needs special care, ask how to help. As the parents feel comfortable, try to care for this child the same way that you would care for your other grandchildren, nieces, and nephews,

Offer to babysit or take care of the child. Parents need time for themselves. Once you are comfortable and your children are comfortable with your care for the child, offer to help out. Just offering will make them happy, knowing that they aren’t alone to deal with this challenge.

Do something special with the child. Every child benefits from special time with grandparents and others who love them. Maybe this will be the young person who loves to bake with you or go shopping.

If you can, offer to help financially. Even if your children have financial means, a little extra cash or financial help in this situation can be greatly appreciated. Copays and other expenses add up quickly. It doesn’t have to be a lot, but every little bit helps. Offer to buy takeout dinner for your children’s family or pay a babysitter so the parents can go out themselves and get a break. Whatever it is, it will also help them feel supported.

Consult with an attorney or advocacy organization before putting money in the child’s name. Some children will need expensive care for their entire lives. Before putting money in the child’s name, consult with someone who understands the financial and legal implications of providing significant amounts of money for the child’s care. While you may be trying to do a good thing, you might jeopardize his/her benefits.

Offer specific help. Daily routines are much more complex for a child with special needs. Maybe you can alleviate some of the burden the parents feel by picking up the child’s siblings after school, or simply making dinner once a week. Again, every gesture is a big help.

Finally, no matter how difficult the situation, try not to give into despair. Whatever you are feeling, the child’s parents are feeling much more intensely. Let go of the things you can’t control, and focus on what you can do.q

On a crystal-clear Friday morning, Congregation Magen David of West Deal revealed what some believe is the crowning jewel in its ever-expanding complex—the Gladys Kassin Mikveh/Stephanie Jemal Sultan Building.
Due to an overwhelming influx of new residents over the past several years, the demand for another mikveh at the Jersey Shore could no longer be ignored. The Board of Congregation Magen David, led by its chairman, Charlie Saka and his wife, Brenda, rose to the challenge. With the assistance of Jack and Asaf Tamir, who headed the construction, they created a magnificent venue in which myriads of women will perform a most central mitzvah for decades to come. The Ribbon Cutting Ceremony was a perfect tribute to the building, and to all those involved in its completion. Hundreds of community members attended the first-class brunch donated by Benny Azizov of NYK Caterers. The synagogue’s social hall looked magnificent thanks to Doris Dwek Events and Anna’s Flowers. Gift bags containing hallot for Shabbat, celebratory labbas, and women’s siddurim were distributed to all who attended.

A dais running the entire width of the room was filled with most of the community’s rabbis in a splendid show of unity. Harry Adjmi emceed, as awards were given to various donors, including Mr. & Mrs. Jack A. Kassin and family, who dedicated the mikveh in honor of their mother, and Mr. & Mrs. Lawrence Jemal and family, who dedicated the building in memory of their daughter. Mr. & Mrs. Jacob S. Kassin and family, and the Chehebar family were honored, as well, for their generosity. Rabbi Saul J. Kassin was presented with an award for his instrumental role in the project. He consulted with rabbinical experts to ensure that the mikveh would be built to the highest standards of halakha. He spoke about the importance of shalom bayit and family purity, which are integrally connected to the mitzvah of mikveh.
Other speakers included Rabbi Yosef Galimidi, Rabbi Eli Mansour, Rabbi Edmond Nahum, Rabbi Shlomo Diamond and Rabbi Michael Haber. A video was shown of Rabbi Yitzhak Yosef, the Chief Rabbi of Israel, Rabbi Shlomo Amar, the Chief Rabbi of Jerusalem, and Rabbi Meir Mazuz, all speaking about the importance of the new mikveh.

Charlie Saka spoke about the evolution of the project, after which he and his family were given the final award of the morning. After seeing the building itself, however, many would agree that the award was truly deserved by Brenda, for it was her meticulous eye for detail that made it what it is today.

Following the award ceremony, people were guided towards the mikveh building for the big reveal. Rabbi Shemuel Pinchasi gave a special beracha. As Hazan Shlomo Teherani sang pizmonim, the founding families, led by Gladys Kassin, cut the ribbon, and then pulled down curtains, revealing the exterior of the building. After Rabbi Azriel Mansour installed the front door mezuzah, the crowds were led through the building room by room, each of which is named for a different flower and decorated as such. The facility is state-of-the-art, complimented by a serene, spa-like décor. It includes four luxury preparation suites, plus a special bridal suite, spacious foyer and a dedicated make-up room. The multiple prep rooms allow for an efficient and seamless experience for the community’s women, who will soon be able to conveniently book their appointments via a cell phone app. Strategically located for geographic convenience, especially on Friday and holiday nights, it allows for a safe and private option. The foyer houses the Rachel Tawil A”H Eshet Hayil wall in tribute to the wives and mothers of our community, as well as a founders wall in appreciation of the generous donors who enabled the completion of this holy project. In addition, the Joe & Trina Cayre bridal wall has been dedicated to honor all the women who use the bridal suite. Decorative floor to ceiling etched privacy windows adorn the front of the building and are visible from the parking lot.

The Gladys Kassin Mikveh/ Stephanie Jemal Sultan Building, is now part of the Magen David complex, which stands in the heart of our vital and growing community. No doubt it will see further growth in the future, as the Jersey Shore community continues to grow and flourish!q

Our support, which includes one-on-one career guidance, has made women feel confident about entering the workforce and has changed the financial realities of many community families.

PROPEL’s board of directors is comprised of men and women who are extremely committed to the mission of the organization. They have professional experience in many areas, including marketing, medicine, finance, retail, real estate, and fashion, enabling them to actively promote innovative and relevant ideas for PROPEL.

Over 100 women participated in PROPEL’s summer programs in Deal, New Jersey. The programming encompassed Vision Mapping with Alice Chera (workshops designed to delve into personal interests), Finding the Teacher in You (a panel discussion focusing on female Judaic Studies educators in our community) and Finding Your Sweet Spot (a young leadership event). As a result of those events, women in our community took that initial step—they called PROPEL.The organization helps place women in certificate programs that teach them to become software developers, nutritionists, medical assistants, paralegals, Judaic Studies teachers, cosmetologists, yoga instructors, photographers, interior designers and many more professions.

Ellen Ades, PROPEL’s career coach explained, “It is common for graduates to say, ‘I never could have imagined doing this, thank you for believing in me.’ Whether you are searching for clarity or you simply want to discuss career possibilities, contact PROPEL. We are here for you.”

PROPEL recently expanded its professional staff to accommodate the growing needs of our clients. While a majority of women graduating from high school in our community are attending college, PROPEL is aware that some of these women need career guidance while they are in college or even after they graduate. PROPEL is excited that Raquel Shalam has joined the PROPEL team. As a trained life coach, Raquel is able to connect with young women and support them in collaborative efforts to move toward their professional goals.
Many PROPEL graduates recount that the most difficult thing that they did was to make that initial phone call to PROPEL. It is scary doing something new, but PROPEL provides personal support along the way. PROPEL graduates are now community women with careers that they enjoy and they are helping to make a financial difference for their families.PROPEL provides personal support every step of the way. Our graduates are now community women with careers—in professions that they chose, working the hours that they want to work, so that they and their families live balanced lives and maintain traditional values in their homes. Plus, they enjoy what they’re doing and they are helping to make a financial difference for their families.

If you are interested in a career, please reach out to PROPEL. We’ll help you fulfill your professional goal. Call 646-494-0822 or email info@thepropelnetwork.org

Back-to-school and High Holiday shopping took on a whole new look at Bnai Zion Foundation’s Fall Forward event at Shella and Jack Sitt’s magnificent summer home, in Deal, NJ.
Hundreds of women showed up to shop at ten local vendors’ booths and to hear seven professional speakers give talks and demonstrations revolving around the fall season. Highlights included a delicious holiday cooking demonstration by Chef Poopa Dweck, the renowned author of “Aromas of Aleppo,” and a parenting class with child psychologist Dr. Simone Hidary, which inspired every mom in attendance. Lauren Ancona demonstrated High Holiday flower arranging, interior designer Natalie Kraiem spoke about the latest trends in home decorating, Glam Girl by Shirl’s Shirley Granger showed everyone the secret to the no-makeup look, and Michelle Gindi of Buddha Bowls and Burpees gave us “A Little Dose of Wellness” when she spoke about how to stay healthy with better food choices during the holidays.

The event, which was in loving memory of Ralph and Rachel Tawil A”H, Barry Sitt A:H, and Alice Nakash A”H, featured an exquisite Chinese auction filled with gift packages that promised to take each winner into the fall season with style. A raffle featuring a black 2018 Hermes Birkin Bag added to the excitement, and kept everyone anxiously awaiting the announcement of the winners.
Throughout the day, senior vice president Rebecca Harary spoke about Bnai Zion Foundation’s important work—building a more inclusive, healthy, and vibrant Israel, and its rich, 110 year-long history. CEO Cheryl Bier spent the afternoon meeting with attendees and speaking about Bnai Zion’s many capital projects currently in progress in Israel.

Fall Forward was organized by event chair Shella Sitt and a ten member event committee, which included Joy Bijou, Danielle Dabah, Kimberly Dabah, Ruthie Gindi, Lauren Levy, Sarina Palacci, Meredith Rishty, Joyce Saad, and Manuela Yedid. Together, these incredible women devised and planned the event, including choosing the day’s beneficiary: Bnai Zion Foundation’s Fortified Emergency Room project, which will be built at the Bnai Zion Medical Center in Haifa, which is at risk of rocket attacks due to its proximity to the border with Lebanon. In recognition of the committee’s tremendous efforts, a beautiful plaque bearing each of their names will be displayed on the wall of the Bnai Zion Medical Center.q

Connecting with teammates and forming new friendships were the unifying themes of Hillel Yeshiva PTA’s 2nd Annual Color War. The event was held at the DSN Beach Club and was unequivocally a huge success. Hillel was joined by other community schools including Magen David, Flatbush, and Barkai. Dedication, spirit, and fun were reflected by all involved.
One hundred women came together and formed six teams to compete in an array of events. An obstacle course, dodgeball, musical chairs, and a watermelon contest were just some of the games. Team cheers, songs, and dances rounded out the day to make Color War 2018 very memorable.Everywhere you looked, teams were chatting and laughing. We were even fortunate enough to have the predicted precarious weather hold out the entire day!
The Red Team was the overall winner, gaining the highest score, in just about every event. Kudos to them! The Orange Team took the award for best song, which was dedicated to the memory of Naomi Houllou A”H, their teammate last year. Their song, “We are the World” was the highlight of the day. As they sang, each and every participant joined arms and came together as one. And, as the judges deliberated and watched from their cabana, each turned to the other and agreed that “this is what it is all about.” Their ruach (spirit), will surely remain in the hearts and minds of all for a very long time.
A special thanks goes out to our amazing judges Diane Mizrahi, Arianna Kaplan, Lynda Levy, Adele Khaski, Patti Picciotto, Marilyn Serour, and Gloria Dweck for their spirit, passion, support, and humor.
We are looking forward to Color War 2019!q

PROPEL remains steadfast in its mission to support women in the community as they enter the workforce. Our clients are pursuing exciting careers and expanding their knowledge to be the best they can be in their respective professions.

PROPEL recently organized two enrichment courses, computer literacy classes and Hebrew immersion for women pursuing careers in the field of Judaic Studies. Each of these classes is taught by dynamic women in our community—Cookie Setton and Miriam Harary.

Computer Literacy Courses
Cookie vividly recalls her early years as a working woman. Originally, she had her own business designing and producing applique clothing; when styles changed and the business no longer made sense, Cookie needed to reinvent herself, so she took a position as an administrative assistant in a wholesale business. At that time, she had no significant computer skills. She quickly realized that they needed sharpening and relied on library books to improve. Slowly but surely she learned more and more until she acquired a level of proficiency. Today, Cookie is a Google Certified Educator, experienced in the use of Microsoft Office.
Her journey as a computer specialist makes Cookie unusually well suited to teach others in both individual and group settings. She teaches computer courses at several institutions, including the Sephardic Bikur Holim. Most recently, she joined the PROPEL team and uses her expertise to move women forward. Her classes include, but are not limited to, basic computer skills, Microsoft Office and QuickBooks. Cookie attempts to remove the fear associated with achieving computer competence, and works with each student at a pace that takes her learning curve into account.
Cookie explained that, “Technology in the workplace is constantly changing and my lessons must evolve to stay current and make women valuable members of the workforce.”
Improving computer skills is essential today. PROPEL’s clients are benefiting from Cookie’s knowledge, and salaries are rising as computer mastery is increasing.

Hebrew Immersion Courses
Always in search of a career that makes sense for community women, PROPEL collaborated with the Allegra Franco School of Educational Leadership (AFSEL), and organized a Hebrew immersion class in Deal this summer. Miriam Harary, head of the Hebrew Department at Hillel Yeshiva for 30 years, was engaged as the teacher for this summer course. She was the perfect fit for this course. Over a two-week period, Miriam aimed to perfect the quality of Hebrew language spoken by her students.
Miriam used several techniques to encourage her students and improve their language skills. The class read articles, participated in discussions, analyzed songs, and communicated after class with a WhatsApp Group in Hebrew. Women of all levels in Hebrew language signed up for the class and the feedback was incredibly positive. By offering this class, PROPEL and AFSEL are hopeful that more women will consider pursuing a career teaching Judaic subjects in community schools.
PROPEL is proud to support women in the community and will continue to provide enrichment courses based on their needs.
If you are interested in a career, please reach out to PROPEL and we can help you fulfill your professional goal, call 646-494-0822 or email info@thepropelnetwork.org.

Congratulations! A young couple gets call after call of Mabrook and good wishes from family members and friends. The layette looks beautiful, the cute new baby gifts start to come in, and the excited young couple have their aspirations, hopes, and dreams for their newborn baby. As time goes on they realize things just don’t seem right. Wasn’t the baby supposed to be crawling and talking by now? Everyone tells them, “Don’t worry, everything is fine.”

After a few months, Mom and Dad take the baby to the doctor and after some testing, their worst fears are confirmed—their child has special needs. The doctor explains the child’s disability to the parents, but they are too numb to understand what he is saying. The reality slowly sets in—all the plans they had for this child have been shattered, and at that moment they realize, life is about to change—drastically.
What now? Who can they call? Who do they turn to for guidance, advice, and support? Who can hold their hand and help them navigate through the maze of a new, scary world that they know nothing about?

Unfortunately, this scenario has been played out many times, and is the reality that many families within our community face. For them, life means being on guard 24/7, in a state of high tension, often having to cope all on their own. Along with this tension comes so many questions:
How do I keep my child safe and out of danger? Which school is most suitable for my child’s unique disability? What is really going on with my child and how do I get a proper diagnosis? Which doctor do I go to that knows how to deal with my child’s needs? What are my entitlements, and how do I get them? How do I fill out all these confusing government forms? Who is the best therapist for my child? How do I balance my energy and efforts with the “regular” children in the family and the special needs child? Is there anyone else out there that I can speak to who has done this before? And the list goes on.
That’s where CARE comes in. CARE stands for Community, Advocacy, Resources, Encouragement. This unique community organization deals with the global needs of a family (the entire family) with a special needs child, because the effect that the child has on his/her family is felt in so many ways.

CARE’s team is made up of a combination of parents and professionals. The parents provide priceless real-life experience that is needed to guide the new family. The professionals provide a comprehensive knowledge of schools, programs, entitlements, benefits, and funding that the family may be eligible for.
CARE’s team meets with the family and creates a plan to better their lives. “We sit down with parents of special needs children, listen to their stories, and see what is needed for the child and the family,” said Victoria Safdieh, a founder of CARE. “The challenges that arise as a result of having a special needs child branch out into many different areas of family life. We address and try to help with all of these issues.”
CARE has been advocating, advising, encouraging, and providing a host of services and programs for hundreds of families within our community. The organization has obtained millions of dollars of state funding for services, including nursing, home health aides, social security income, handicap permits, equipment, and schooling. In addition, CARE has been reaching out and building relationships with the local special needs schools and learning about their programs, in order to help guide parents to the school that will best suit their child’s unique disability.

“It is relatively easy choosing a school for a “regular” child, but when it comes to a special needs child it’s a whole different world,” said Meyer Safdieh, cofounder of CARE.
An important part of what CARE does is focus on the siblings of the special needs children, by running monthly sibling events and attending to their needs.
Another focus of CARE, is the impact that the child has on the relationship of the parents.
Often, parents find themselves drifting apart and their relationship is compromised as a result of the constant stress of having a special needs child. CARE encourages them and helps them with practical advice to strengthen their marriage, even going so far as sending couples on a date night in the city and providing a hotel room and dinner to help them refocus and reconnect. CARE also runs lectures and events exclusively for parents of special needs children.

CARE has teamed up with YDE to create a sports program for the autistic boys, which takes place weekly in the school, and has many YDE students volunteering. In addition, CARE held an incredible Purim carnival in Magen David Yeshivah, attended by hundreds of volunteers and special needs children and their families. It was a fun day with music, moonwalks, games, shows, etc. The shining, happy faces of the children were heartwarming. Each child had a volunteer, and their parents were able to enjoy the rest of the family in a fun environment, it was truly a magical day.

In addition, the community came together this past summer to support CARE at the home of Carol and Ike Chera. The Cheras graciously opened their home. Rabbi Eli Mansour, Mr. Harry Adjmi, and Mr. Jack Kassin inspired everyone with their words of support and encouragement for this special, one of a kind organization. Rachel Mitrani gave an emotional speech describing her experiences with her daughter and what CARE means to her.

With its office located in the heart of Brooklyn, at 1977 Coney Island Avenue, the community has a place to turn to for help, advice, guidance, and support for their special needs children. It is there, that they will find a hub of dedicated professionals and volunteers doing their best to help with all of the challenges they are dealing with.
If someone you know needs CARE’s services, or if you would like to participate in any way, whether to volunteer or to donate, please visit our office or call (718) 975-7171.q