Blurring the Line Between Inside and Out

As more people embrace the joys of home life, the boundary between indoors and outdoors is quickly disappearing. The newest trend in design isn’t just about creating beautiful interiors or stylish patios—it’s about merging the two into one seamless living experience. Homeowners are turning to retractable walls, oversized sliding glass doors, and full outdoor kitchens to extend the comforts of their homes into the open air.

The appeal of this blended lifestyle is easy to understand. Natural light, fresh air, and a connection to the outdoors are proven to lift mood and boost well-being. Meanwhile, modern innovations in architecture and materials mean you don’t have to sacrifice comfort to enjoy nature. Today’s homeowners are designing their spaces to be flexible—cozy in the colder months and wide open to the breeze when the weather warms up.
One of the most dramatic features driving this trend is the retractable wall. These motorized glass systems, which can fold or slide away completely, make entire walls vanish at the push of a button. In an instant, a living room can become part of the backyard, or a kitchen can open directly onto a deck. Unlike traditional patio doors, which frame the outdoors from a distance, retractable walls remove the boundary altogether, offering uninterrupted sightlines and a true indoor-outdoor feel.
Oversized sliding doors offer a similar effect, with large panels that glide along tracks and create broad, walk-through openings. Many of these are designed with energy-efficient, double- or triple-glazed glass, making them practical year-round. When closed, they let in sunlight and scenic views while keeping the weather out. When open, they transform the atmosphere completely, drawing the outdoors in and letting gatherings flow freely between spaces. This style works beautifully for kitchens and great rooms that border patios, pools, or gardens.
Alongside these architectural features, the outdoor kitchen has taken center stage as a must-have for homeowners who love to entertain. Far beyond a simple grill, today’s outdoor kitchens include built-in ranges, pizza ovens, beverage fridges, sinks, and even dishwashers. With ample counter space, lighting, and shelter, these setups are fully equipped to handle anything from casual family dinners to large holiday barbecues. Materials like stainless steel, stone, and weather-treated wood ensure durability and easy cleaning, while layout choices mirror indoor design—keeping everything within reach and easy to navigate.
But it’s not just about walls and appliances. The entire aesthetic of outdoor design is shifting to reflect indoor comfort. Plush, weather-resistant sofas, outdoor rugs, and cozy throw pillows have turned patios into lounges. Fire pits and overhead heaters extend the season for outdoor enjoyment, while dimmable lighting, surround sound, and even televisions are being integrated into exterior walls or furniture. Outdoor living is no longer limited to sunny afternoons—it’s now an option for nearly any time of day or year.
Homebuilders and renovators are also paying attention to flow and continuity. Using similar flooring, color palettes, or materials inside and out helps tie the spaces together. For example, porcelain tile that runs from the kitchen onto the patio, or matching wood beams in the ceiling and pergola, creates a visual connection that feels intentional and upscale. Glass walls and minimal thresholds reduce visual barriers and encourage movement between spaces without interruption.
For those on a tighter budget or with limited space, there are still simple ways to embrace the indoor-outdoor lifestyle. A folding glass door, a pass-through kitchen window, or a covered patio can make a huge difference. Even just placing a dining table near a wide-opening door or adding an outdoor bar cart can expand how a home is used and enjoyed. The key is to think of the backyard, balcony, or terrace not as separate zones, but as extensions of daily life.
This blending of indoor style with outdoor living is more than a design choice—it reflects a growing desire for homes that support connection, relaxation, and natural beauty. Whether you’re planning a full renovation or just looking for inspiration to enhance your space, there’s never been a better time to rethink the walls between inside and out. With a little creativity and the right upgrades, the outdoors might just become your favorite room in the house.

Magen David High School’s Personal Approach to College Guidance

Adelphi, Baruch, Binghamton, Brooklyn, Columbia, Cornell, Drexel, Duke, FIT, Fordham, Hunter, Johns Hopkins Business School, LIU, Marymount, NYU, Pace, Penn, Princeton, Rutgers, Sophie Davis, Parsons, Touro, Yale, Yeshiva University are familiar names we recognize as some of the most diverse and prestigious colleges in the country. But this list was not thrown together haphazardly to display a high school senior’s options– these universities and colleges are among several that Magen David Yeshivah High School (MDYHS) graduates will be attending in Fall 2025.
“College Guidance is the nerve center of the school,” said Dr. Daniel J. Vitow, Head of School of MDYHS. He explained that Laura Miller, Director of College Guidance at MDYHS, sets the tone for rigor and academic excellence for all students, irrespective of their college or career aspirations. Ivy League bound or not, “We treat everybody with the same respect. Our job is to help students get accepted to the schools that are the best fit for them,” said Dr. Vitow.
And how does one discover the best fit? Some students have that strong pull from early on, like MDYHS Senior Jacob Hamui who was accepted into both Sophie Davis School of Biomedical Education and the Coordinated B.A.-M.D. Program in Brooklyn College. Jacob knew he was destined to be a doctor from the start of high school. He jump-started his journey by enrolling in AP courses beginning sophomore year and participating in the highly competitive nationwide Regeneron Science Talent Search with nearly 2,500 entrants, offered to MDYHS seniors. He submitted an independent research paper regarding stress as a causative factor in pupil dilation, all while working on essays for his college applications.
Nowadays, more students are entering college as ‘undecided’ majors. MDYHS Senior Sarah Bukai is interested in both nutrition and interior design, two vastly different fields. She felt compelled to apply to several colleges, necessitating several separate application essays. One day she sat in the college guidance office from 9:00am until 4:30pm, feeling extremely overwhelmed as she rushed to meet the application deadline for Brooklyn Scholars. Simultaneously, her portfolio for her FIT application required 16 pieces, and some of her 3-D models were incomplete. Sarah was on the verge of tears assuming she’d miss the deadlines, but Mrs. Miller encouraged her to focus and tackle her work, reassuring her it will get done. “She’s like our mom in school, not just helping us with applications but also with any issues,” said Sarah. Students are also taught how to craft resumes prior to college in preparation for MDYHS NEXT Internship Program, where seniors intern at workplaces for hands-on experience before entering the college or the workforce.
“You’re making a decision that could affect your whole life,” said Jacob. The process should be more stressful, but thanks to MDYHS he felt supported throughout and as if his entire foundation was laid out for him. At the height of application season when he often couldn’t sleep he’d email Mrs. Miller questions throughout the night, even at 2 a.m., and receive prompt responses. “I remember going through the process with my sons and understand what it is as a mom,” said Mrs. Miller. “These are all my kids. I’m their counselor but there’s also the mom in me that doesn’t want them to feel like they’re going through a process that’s anxiety-inducing.”
A plethora of AP courses, extracurricular activities, internship opportunities, and incredible role models in both Judaic and secular studies stimulate Magen David students to exert themselves and aspire to achieve their goals. Try catching Jacob for a quick conversation in between his eye care internship through MDYHS and Sundays at SMC, a project of his own volition. “I like getting experience in the different fields of medicine, as it gives me a small taste of what med school rotations will be like,” said Jacob.
While College Guidance generally begins in 11th grade, the college process in MDYHS begins much earlier. Sophomore College Night often features former Magen David graduates or current seniors speaking to sophomores. “You don’t have to be a senior to go to the college guidance office,” said Jacob, when he spoke at Sophomore College Night. “You could go in 9th grade, it doesn’t matter what age. I never felt for a second that I didn’t have support.” Mostly, he appreciated the simple process. All it took was a quick email to Mrs. Miller to get the ball rolling. And best of all, she’s part of the Magen David family, right down the hall. No complicated interviews or lengthy protocols to go through.
A professional with 26 years of experience behind her, Mrs. Miller definitely knows how to write a killer recommendation letter. But it is her ability to motivate students that sets her apart. Ultimately, her care and dedication to every student lifts a weight off their shoulders and makes the college application process much more meaningful and less aggravating. “We want our students taking ownership and being excited about the process,” she said. “It’s not about hand holding – it’s about empowering them every step of the way.”
Whatever road they choose, students concur that Magen David preps them thoroughly and provides them with the tools they need for success in the world post high school. “It’s a simple formula,” said Dr. Vitow. “We don’t have any shares in a particular college. We present intelligent options and the children decide.”

Helping Children with Learning Differences
Reach Their Full Potential

Rabbi Dr. Rafi Cashman

Albert’s parents (pseudonym) came to us last year feeling overwhelmed by the challenges their child was facing in the mainstream first grade classroom. He was not progressing in learning to read relative to his peers, and was struggling overall with his academics. His parents got him tutors to help him keep up with his class level work, but he kept falling further behind. As the year progressed, his increased time with tutors outside of school only raised the level of stress for Albert and his parents alike. Over time, the happy Albert they knew was becoming increasingly distant, reactive, and anxious.

Following the school’s recommendations, his parents pursued multiple assessments, including speech and language evaluations, and a neuropsych. Albert was diagnosed with a language-based learning disability. Following these results, the school provided as many of the accommodations as they were able. However, it didn’t lead to the progress they had hoped for. Instead, frustration continued to build—for Albert, his parents, and his teachers. His parents thought keeping him in a mainstream school was the right decision, afraid of pulling him away from existing friendships, even though they frayed as a result of the increased stress Albert was feeling. The extra tutors and supports drained Albert so much that there was even less time for fun activities and after school sports. Something had to change.
We hear a version of this story over and over again at Gesher Yehuda (which will be re-named Yeshivah Prep Elementary next year). The prospective parent isn’t quite ready to commit to moving their child out of the mainstream. They wonder (and hope): Maybe he’ll just grow out of it – can’t we wait just one more year? But what’s underneath and unstated is often as much of a struggle: What will people say about our family if we put our child in a “different” type of school? How will he keep his friends in the community? And, will he ever get back into the mainstream? In reality, each extra year in the wrong environment sets the child back at a critical time of their growth and development. The delay also creates an emotional and social burden that increases over time and makes the child more frustrated and anxious.
While speaking with a group of parents, they opened up about their transition to our school and all expressed a similar sentiment: “We are thrilled and I’ve never seen my child happier!” And then, “It’s changed our lives as parents.” Thank G-d we have a great school. But the reason for their response goes deeper. This is the first time in their lives that their children are getting what they need: a small class with attention to their individual learning needs; specialists in language, OT, PT, speech and counselling to help them with their still-developing skills; a curriculum that helps build the skills they need; and incredible love and patience. When a child is in the right place, parents see the difference it makes in their home and family.
A learning difference isn’t something one grows out of, and it’s certainly something a child can learn to manage. But it can also be a gift when students at our school learn skills of self–advocacy, organization, and communication that mainstream students only learn later, and often by osmosis. They develop a resilience that other students would be lucky to have at such a young age, and do so in an environment that sees them not just as academic subjects, but whole people.
Gesher Yehuda/Yeshivah Prep is a community school. It means we teach our students about Sephardic culture, pizmonim, tefilah, keriyah, parasha, and everything else we want to be true for our children in the most holistic way. We are a school that wants to see each child discover something that they excel at and find meaningful to them. We want to find ways for them to thrive and exercise curiosity so they can feel competent and successful, even as they struggle with very real academic challenges.
Having a language based learning disability or ADHD can often be supported in a mainstream school, and our community schools put in enormous resources to do so. But sometimes more support is needed, and that’s why Gesher Yehuda/Yeshivah Prep Elementary exists. Don’t let your child struggle when they don’t need to.
So what should you do? Make sure you know what you’re dealing with. Get a neuropsychological evaluation early. The information from this assessment is critical to getting the right support. Then you can start to get your child the services they need and deserve. Although this can be costly, it is an investment to ensure that your child has the learning skills they need. Not addressing these issues early on can lead to even more expensive and challenging interventions down the road. Make sure to ask the experts (a psychologist, a speech and language therapist) what they think is the best learning environment for your child. They have seen a version of your child’s profile throughout their career, and have a pretty good idea about what they need. Finally — remember that your child is whole and wonderful.
Albert did join us at Yeshivah Prep and has made enormous progress. He’s successful academically, can advocate for his learning needs, and is much happier. When we spoke to mom, she told us about the brilliant and positive aura Albert walks around with. He has time for leagues at the Center, and prays with his dad on Shabbat. She may be even happier than he is.

Rabbi Dr. Rafi Cashman is the Head of School at Gesher Yehuda/Yeshiva Prep in Brooklyn, a school for students with language learning disabilities. He is also a mentor in the Day School Leadership Training Institute at Prizmah. He holds a Masters of Education from Yeshiva University, a PhD in Education from OISE at the University of Toronto, and received Semicha in Toronto.

THE CARE DIFFERENCE

Every year, CARE brings the spirit of Purim alive with a carnival that is especially designed to cater to families of children with special needs. This year, over 600 children came sporting their adorable Purim costumes, ready for a day filled with fun! From stilt walkers and magicians to bounce houses, face painting, pillowcase decorating, and more — there was something for everyone to enjoy! The event was far more than just a carnival. It was a day that allowed families to experience the pure joy of the holiday despite the hardships of their everyday lives. The feelings of warmth and support from the community allowed them to truly relax and enjoy themselves.

Once again, the CARE Purim Carnival displays the organization’s exceptional ability to organize meaningful and successful events that bring families of children with special needs in our community together.
What is it that draws hundreds of parents to CARE? How is the experience unique? What elevates the CARE organization over others that serve children with special needs?
Founded by parents who deeply understand the challenges of raising a child with special needs, CARE offers not only direct support for children but also comprehensive guidance for the entire family. From the moment they begin their journey, CARE empowers parents, helping them navigate the emotional and practical complexities of raising a special child. CARE advisors are beside them every step of the way, ensuring they never feel alone.
By connecting families to essential services, therapies, schools, and specialists, CARE has become a lifeline within the special needs community. Beyond individual support, CARE fosters a sense of belonging through special events where parents and families can connect, share, and feel understood. With in-house social workers and a dedicated therapy clinic, CARE provides both emotional and practical support under one roof.
CARE blends compassion with advocacy, love with services, and provides hope–because every child deserves a beautiful life. Today, CARE is the heart of the special needs community, the central resource families turn to for comprehensive, ongoing support.

On Wednesday, April 30, DSN held a vibrant celebration of unity, resilience, and pride as over 500 people gathered in the Community Center to honor Yom Ha’atzmaut.

The evening began with a solemn and powerful tribute to the 59 remaining hostages. As the crowd stood in silence, 59 individuals held candles while each hostage’s name was read aloud. It was a poignant moment that captured the heartbreak and gravity of the current moment in Israel. The ceremony was followed by the Israeli national anthem, “Hatikvah,” movingly sung by IDF soldier, Rav Tomer.
Rabbi David Tawil of the Larchwood Synagogue shared heartfelt words of Divrei Torah offering inspiration for the community’s hope and steadfast support for Israel. Committee chairs Honey Dayan and Jacqueline Musry followed with brief remarks, expressing deep gratitude for the community’s involvement and unwavering spirit.
What began with somber reflection soon transitioned into an unforgettable evening of music, dancing, and celebration — true to Israeli spirit, where sorrow and joy so often dance together. On a dazzling stage lit with wild lighting effects, headliner Nechemia Katz delivered a breathtaking performance that had the audience on their feet for hours. With a voice described by many as “magnificent” and “unbelievable,” Katz’s energy was infectious. At one point, he brought children on stage to sing alongside him, creating an atmosphere of unity and hope that spanned generations.
“The Deal community is where it’s at!” said Jacqueline Musry. “Each year DSN puts on an explosive celebration, and this year, Nechemia Katz truly brought the house down. His passion was evident from our very first conversation, and after tonight, we were left absolutely speechless.”
Adding to the excitement, the evening featured glowing accessories, festive décor, Israeli flags and glow-in-the-dark strobe sticks. “It was a night my children and I will never forget,” said Honey Dayan. “DSN made our dream a reality!”
Committee member Pauline Assa reflected on the deeper impact of the night: “It was so meaningful–something that will truly leave a lasting imprint on the hundreds of people who were in that room.”
DSN’s annual Yom Ha’atzmaut celebration continues to grow each year, strengthening the bonds of the community while honoring Israel’s past, present, and future. From solemn candlelight ceremonies to jubilant song and dance, the night was a moving tribute to resilience, unity, and the enduring spirit of Am Yisrael.
Sammy Sitt, DSN’s Executive Director, summarized. “What a night! DSN has been displaying its fervent support of Israel over the past 18 months with event after event, many of them somber ones reflecting on October 7th. But tonight was different. Tonight, our community came out to celebrate the fact that we have a Jewish state, a place that we will always love and treasure. We are very fortunate to have volunteers and staff who are passionate about Israel in putting this event together. May Hashem continue to bless DSN to provide more celebrations and happy occasions.”

Ari Baum, CFP®

WHAT WOULD YOU DO DIFFERENTLY IF YOU HAD FULL CONFIDENCE IN YOUR INVESTMENT PLAN? WOULD YOU INVEST MORE? STAY CALM DURING MARKET DIPS? STOP SECOND-GUESSING EVERY MOVE? These questions get to the heart of something many investors quietly struggle with: uncertainty.
Some aren’t sure if they have the right strategy. Others don’t have a strategy at all. In a world overwhelmed by breaking news, market noise, and well-meaning advice from friends, staying focused has never been more difficult.

The strongest investment plans are not necessarily the most complex, they’re the most purposeful. They’re designed to support your goals, your timeline, and your comfort level with risk. Whether you’re just getting started or refining a plan you’ve had for years, the key is choosing an approach that aligns with your life—not just the markets.

Buy and Hold — For the Patient Investor
If you’re someone who values simplicity and believes in long-term growth, the “buy and hold” strategy might be your sweet spot. This approach involves investing in high-quality assets—like stocks, ETFs, or mutual funds—and holding them through market ups and downs.
The goal is to avoid emotional decisions, ignore short-term noise, and let compounding do the heavy lifting over time. For investors who are in it for the long haul, this strategy offers calm in a sea of market turbulence.
Asset Allocation — For the Balanced Investor
This strategy is about building a mix of investments that reflect your unique balance of risk and reward. By spreading your assets across stocks, bonds, and cash, you create a diversified portfolio that adapts as your life evolves.
Younger investors may tilt toward stocks for growth, while those nearing retirement might shift to bonds for income and stability. Asset allocation is flexible by design, helping smooth out volatility while keeping you aligned with your long-term goals.

Dollar Cost Averaging — For the Consistent Investor
This strategy is all about discipline. With dollar cost averaging, you invest a set amount of money at regular intervals—monthly, for example—regardless of market conditions.
This strategy reduces the risk of bad timing, removes emotion from the process, and takes advantage of market dips by buying more shares when prices are low. Over time, it builds momentum—and confidence—without the pressure of guessing when to jump in.

Growth Investing — For the Ambitious Investor
Growth investing is for those who are comfortable with a little more volatility in exchange for potentially greater returns. This strategy focuses on companies and sectors with strong future potential—like tech, clean energy, or healthcare innovation.
Yes, growth investing may involve sharper ups and downs. But for long-term investors who believe in the future of innovation, the rewards can be worth the ride. The key is staying focused on your end goal and not panicking during the bumps.

Income Investing — For the Cash-Flow-Focused Investor
Sometimes the goal isn’t growth—it’s income.
Income investing prioritizes regular, reliable payouts from sources like dividend-paying stocks, municipal or government bonds, annuities or REITs (real estate investment trusts).
It’s often the go-to strategy for retirees or those wanting financial flexibility without selling off assets. If peace of mind and predictable income are high on your list, this may be the path forward.

Bonus Insight: Tax-Efficient Investing — For the Strategic Investor
No matter which strategy you choose, smart tax planning is essential. Without it, taxes can quietly chip away at your returns.
Strategies like using tax-advantaged accounts (think Roth IRAs or 401k’s), harvesting investment losses, or making well-timed Roth conversions can help you keep more of what you earn. It’s not about avoiding taxes—it’s about managing them intentionally.

From Uncertainty to Clarity
Investing without a plan is like setting off on a road trip without a map, you might eventually get somewhere, but it will likely take longer and cause more stress. A clear strategy helps you stay grounded during uncertainty, filter out distractions, and move forward with purpose.
Whether you’re planning to invest more this year, rebalance your portfolio, or simply feel more in control of your financial future, the first step is aligning your investments with your goals and mindset.
Your investments should support your life—not the other way around. When you invest with purpose, the results go far beyond your portfolio. q

The content is developed from sources believed to provide accurate information. Investing involves risk including the potential loss of principal. No investment strategy can guarantee a profit or protect against loss in periods of declining values. Past performance does not guarantee future results. Consult with a financial professional regarding your specific situation.

Ari Baum, CFP® is the Founder and CEO of Endurance Wealth Partners, with over 25 years of experience in the Financial Services industry. He brings his in-depth experience to Conceive. Believe. Achieve. for his clients. Securities and Advisory services offered through Prospera Financial Services Inc. Member FINRA/SIPC. Brokerage and Advisory accounts carried by Wells Fargo Clearing Services LLC.

Our Fearless Councilwoman

Inna Vernikov, the dynamic councilwoman representing Brooklyn’s 48th District, has emerged as a formidable voice in New York City politics. Representing neighborhoods like Brighton Beach, Manhattan Beach, Gravesend, and parts of Midwood and Sheepshead Bay, the Councilwoman is a Ukrainian-born Jewish immigrant and lawyer who arrived in the United States at age 12.

Vernikov’ s journey from a Soviet-era childhood to a prominent Republican leader reflects her resilience and commitment to her principles and community. Elected in 2021, she flipped a traditionally Democratic seat, becoming the first Republican in this seat in over 100 years. Now, as she campaigns for re-election in the Republican primary on June 24, 2025, with early voting starting on June 14 to 22, Vernikov continues to champion issues like public safety, antisemitism, and quality-of-life matters such as taking a stance against homeless shelters being placed in residential neighborhoods.
Vernikov’s tenure has been marked by her vocal stance against antisemitism, a cause deeply personal to her as a Jewish immigrant. She has fearlessly confronted rising antisemitic incidents in New York City, particularly in educational institutions of higher learning.
At a City Hall hearing, she twice grilled CUNY’s administration over their handling of antisemitic incidents, citing the Lippman Report’s findings of pervasive issues within the system. Her pointed response to CUNY Chancellor Felix Matos Rodriguez, who earns $670,000 annually, underscored her frustration with institutional inaction: “Step up or step down.”

Vernikov has also taken her fight to the national stage, testifying before Congress in 2024 about the impact of the migrant crisis on local communities, highlighting her ability to elevate local concerns to federal discussions. Her activism extends to the streets of her district. When a Taliban flag was spotted in Brighton Beach, Vernikov swiftly mobilized, placing pressure on the homeowners to ensure its removal.
Similarly, at Columbia University, Vernikov documented pro-Palestinian encampments, calling out what she saw as antisemitic rhetoric and hostile environments for Jewish students enabled by the administration and uber liberal professors. Her presence at these events, often alongside colleagues like Councilmembers Louis and Yeger, underscores her hands-on approach to addressing divisive issues. Her meetings with the federal antisemitism task force in Washington, D.C., further highlight her proactive approach to aligning local and national efforts.
Education remains a cornerstone of Vernikov’s platform. At a press conference outside Origins High School, she addressed antisemitism in public schools, advocating for safer environments for Jewish students. Her “Unmask the Hate” legislation, introduced at City Hall, seeks to hold perpetrators of hate crimes accountable by removing anonymity protections, a direct response to masked protests that she believes shield antisemitic actors.
Vernikov’s work with the NYC Council Jewish Caucus, including meetings with Jewish students at Baruch College, further demonstrates her dedication to fostering dialogue and support for her community, and a willingness to reach across the aisle when it comes to issues like antisemitism.
Beyond her fight against antisemitism, Vernikov has tackled practical quality-of-life issues. She successfully pushed for legislation requiring new trash bins across New York City, addressing sanitation concerns that resonate with her constituents. Her opposition to proposed bike lanes in Midwood, which she argued prioritized ideology over practicality, earned her the title of “most hated” by Streetsblog—a badge she wears proudly, as seen in her social media post: “Proudly DELIVERING.” By halting the bike lane plan, which she claimed preserved parking and pedestrian safety, Vernikov showcased her responsiveness to community needs.
Vernikov’s personal story adds depth to her public service. A former immigration and divorce lawyer with a BA from Baruch College and a Juris Doctorate degree, she brings a legal acumen to her role. Her decision to quit the Women’s Caucus, citing its politicization, reflects her willingness to stand on principle, even at the cost of alliances.
As Vernikov seeks re-election, she faces a challenge from Ari Kagan in the Republican primary. Kagan, a lifelong Democrat and former local Democratic leader, switched parties in 2022, a move Vernikov’s supporters criticize as opportunistic. Critics argue Kagan’s values remain misaligned with the GOP’s, pointing to his history of running as a Democrat without adopting conservative principles, voting along with democrats on issues like immigration and crime, as well as voting no on a budget that substantially increased funding to the NYPD. This contrast, however, is secondary to Vernikov’s record of delivering results.
Vernikov’s campaign is a testament to her unrelenting advocacy. From confronting antisemitism to improving sanitation, public safety, and rallying against homeless shelters being placed in residential neighborhoods, she has proven herself a tireless fighter for the 48th District. Her ability to blend grassroots activism with legislative action makes her a standout figure in a city often dominated by progressive and partisan divides. As voters head to the polls, Vernikov’s record as a principled, results-driven leader will speak for itself, but in a low turn out election, every vote matters.
On June 24th, we must re-elect our fearless leader in city hall, our Councilwoman, Inna Vernikov. Early voting starts on June 14th and ends on June 22nd.

The Safe Foundation’s Annual Fundraiser

Every year, The Safe Foundation holds a single, vital fundraising event—one that fuels the lifeline we extend to individuals and families in crisis. With no other fundraising campaigns throughout the year, this annual event is essential to the continued operation of our clinics, programs, and educational initiatives. As a community-based nonprofit serving Brooklyn, NY, and Deal, NJ, we rely on the generosity of donors who believe in our mission: to support individuals coping with addiction and related challenges through comprehensive, compassionate, and culturally competent care.

Founded in 2003, The Safe Foundation has helped over 10,000 people reclaim their lives. What began as a small initiative to address substance use and gambling addiction in our local community has evolved into a multifaceted organization that treats addiction, nurtures families, educates youth, and promotes holistic wellness. Our impact is felt in schools, synagogues, clinics, and homes—and with your support, we can continue to meet the growing and urgent needs of the community we’re proud to serve.
The foundation of Safe’s work is its client-centered clinical services. Our licensed outpatient clinics in Brooklyn and Deal offer substance use and gambling addiction treatment, providing accessible and personalized care. Our experienced team of credentialed professionals creates tailored treatment plans that respect each client’s history, cultural background, and personal goals.
Addiction doesn’t happen in isolation—and neither does healing. That’s why we offer robust support to the family members of those in treatment, recognizing that recovery is a journey best taken with a strong and informed support system. Through family therapy, psychoeducation, and counseling, we help loved ones navigate their own challenges and contribute meaningfully to the recovery process.
We don’t stop at treating addiction. At Safe, we view prevention and education as core to our mission. That’s where our extended programs come in—each one targeting different stages of life and areas of need, always with the goal of strengthening the community from within.
Our youth-focused initiative, Project Safe, delivers vital prevention education to grades five through 12 for one period per week throughout the whole school year in over 10 schools in Brooklyn and Deal. This program helps students understand the risks associated with substance misuse, vaping, and gambling, equipping them with the tools to make healthy choices and empowering them to take control of their futures before problems begin.
Raising children in today’s world is not easy, and parents often feel unprepared to address the complex emotional and behavioral issues their kids face. Our Safe Parenting program offers educational workshops and events for parents seeking to raise confident, resilient children. By focusing on empowerment, we help parents guide their children through life’s challenges without turning to harmful coping mechanisms like substance use or disordered eating.
Eating disorders and body image struggles are deeply entwined with emotional health, and The Mindful Eating Project offers education, support, and healing for those who struggle in silence. Through community events, workshops, and partnerships with credentialed professionals, the Mindful Eating Project opens up conversations about binge eating, dieting, movement, and body acceptance. It is designed to serve those recovering from an eating disorder or simply seeking a healthier relationship with food, exercise, and self-image.
What makes The Safe Foundation unique is our deep connection to the community we serve. Our staff, board members, and volunteers live and work in the neighborhoods where our clients live. We understand the unique cultural dynamics that shape behavior and influence recovery, and we tailor our services accordingly.
Whether it’s a teenager attending a Project Safe class, a parent learning new tools through Safe Parenting, or a client receiving therapy at our clinic, every person who walks through our doors is treated with dignity and care. We don’t just serve the community—we are the community.

Why Your Support Matters
The Safe Foundation runs year-round programming and serves hundreds of clients at any given time. Every dollar raised directly supports clinical care, school outreach, parenting education, and wellness programs. Your donation enables us to say “yes” when someone calls for help. It ensures we can keep our doors open, our counselors available, and our services accessible to all who need them.
Please join us Friday morning, June 27th, at 9 am at the home of James and Ricci Haddad for our 22nd Annual Breakfast Fundraiser. Every donation brings us one step closer to safeguarding our community’s future. Together, we can build a healthier, more resilient community.
To donate, Venmo @safe-foundation or visit www.thesafefoundation.org/donate.
If you or a loved one needs help, call (718) GET-SAFE. All calls are confidential.

The parsha of Yitro records the revolutionary moment when G-d, Creator of Heaven and Earth, entered into a mutually binding agreement with a nation, the Children of Israel, an agreement we call a brit, a covenant.

Now, this is not the first Divine covenant in the Torah. G-d had already made one with Noah, and through him all of humanity, and He made another with Abraham, whose sign was circumcision. But those covenants were not fully reciprocal. G-d did not ask for Noah’s agreement, nor did He wait for Abraham’s assent.
Sinai was a different matter. For the first time, He wanted the covenant to be fully mutual, to be freely accepted. So we find that — both before and after the Revelation at Sinai – G-d commands Moses to make sure the people do actually agree.
The point is fundamental. G-d wants to rule by right, not might. The G-d who brought an enslaved people to liberty seeks the free worship of free human beings. G-d does not act toward His creatures like a tyrant. Avodah Zarah 3a
So at Sinai was born the principle that was, millennia later, described by Thomas Jefferson in the American Declaration of Independence, the idea that governors and governments derive “their just powers from the consent of the governed.” G-d wanted the consent of the governed. That is why the Sinai Covenant was conditional on the people’s agreement.
Admittedly, the Talmud questions how free the Israelites actually were, and it uses an astonishing image. It says that G-d suspended the mountain above their heads and said, “If you agree, well and good. If you don’t, here will be your burial.” That is another topic for another time. Suffice to say that there is no indication of this in the plain sense of the text itself.
What is interesting is the exact wording in which the Israelites signal their consent. To repeat: they do so three times, first before the Revelation, and then twice afterwards, in the parsha of Mishpatim.
Listen to the three verses. Before the Revelation: All the people answered as one and said, ‘All that G-d has spoken, we will do [na’aseh].’Ex. 19:8
Then afterward: Moses came and told the people all of G-d’s words and all the laws. The people all responded with a single voice, ‘We will do [na’aseh] every word that G-d has spoken.’ Ex. 24:3 He took the Book of the Covenant and read it aloud to the people. They replied, ‘We will do [na’aseh] and we will hear [ve-nishma] all that G-d has declared.’ Ex. 24:7
Note the subtle difference. In two cases the people say: all that G-d says, we will do. In the third, the double verb is used: na’aseh ve-nishma. “We will do and we will hear, (or obey, or hearken, or understand).” The word shema means ‘to understand’, as we see in the story of the Tower of Babel: “Come, let us descend and confuse their speech, so that one person will not understand another’s speech.” Gen. 11:7
Now note that there is another difference between the three verses. In the first two cases there is a clear emphasis on the unity of the people. Both phrases are very striking. The first says: all the people answered as one. The second says, The people all responded with a single voice. In a book that emphasizes how fractious and divisive the people were, such declarations of unanimity are significant and rare. But the third verse, which mentions both doing and listening or understanding, contains no such statement. It simply says: They replied. There is no emphasis on unanimity or consensus.
What we have here is a biblical comment on one of the most striking features of all in Judaism: the difference between deed and creed, between asiyah and shemiyah, between doing and understanding.
Christians have theology. Jews have law. These are two very different approaches to the religious life. Judaism is about a community of action. It is about the way people interact in their dealings with one another. It is about bringing G-d into the shared spaces of our collective life. Just as we know G-d through what He does, so G-d asks us to bring Him into what we do. In the beginning, as Goethe put it, was the deed. That is why Judaism is a religion of law, because law is the architecture of behavior.
When it comes, however, to belief, creed, doctrine, all the things that depend on shemiyah rather than asiyah, understanding rather than action: on this Judaism does not call for unanimity. Not because Judaism lacks beliefs. To the contrary, Judaism is what it is precisely because of our beliefs, most importantly the belief in monotheism, that there is, at least and at most, one G-d. The Torah tells us in Bereishit about creation, in Shemot about redemption, and in parsha Yitro about revelation.
Judaism is a set of beliefs, but it is not a community based on unanimity about the way we understand and interpret those beliefs. It recognizes that intellectually and temperamentally we are different. Judaism has had its rationalists and its mystics, its philosophers and its poets, its naturalists and its supernaturalists: Rabbi Ishmael and Rabbi Akiva, Judah Halevi and Maimonides, the Vilna Gaon and the Baal Shem Tov. We seek unanimity in halachah, not in aggadah. Na’aseh, we act in the same way, but nishma, we understand each in our own way. That is the difference between the way we serve G-d, collectively, and the way we understand G-d, individually.
What is fascinating is that this well-known feature of Judaism is already signaled in the Torah: in the difference between the way it speaks about na’aseh, “as one,” “with a single voice,” and nishma, with no special collective consensus. Our acts, our na’aseh, are public. Our thoughts, our nishma, are private. That is how we come to serve G-d together, yet relate to Him individually, in the uniqueness of our being.

Jonathan Sacks ZT”L was an international religious leader, and philosopher. The author of over 30 books, Rabbi Sacks received multiple awards in recognition of his work. Sadly, he passed away in November 2020.