Receiving a car insurance renewal with a significantly higher premium has become an all-too-common experience in recent years. Whether you reside in New York, New Jersey, or another state, chances are your rates have jumped dramatically. Many factors contribute to this increase, ranging from state regulations to rising repair costs and thefts. Understanding the driving forces behind these changes can help you navigate your options and even lower your premiums.
Auto insurance is state-regulated, meaning each stateās insurance department oversees policy coverages, company solvency, and, yes, rate approvals. In New York, for instance, the Department of Financial Services must approve any increase over 5%. Despite being one of the most restrictive regulatory environments, the department has granted notable rate hikes to several top insurers in recent years. Insurers must provide evidence justifying their need for increased rates, often pointing to the rising costs of claims and maintaining profitability. For context, a car insurance company typically aims for a modest 5% profit margināequivalent to just 5 cents on the dollarāfar from the returns most corporations expect.
Several factors are driving the steep increases in premiums. The cost of new and used vehicles has surged, making car repairs or replacements more expensive than ever. Advanced vehicle technology, including sensors, cameras, and multiple airbags, has driven up repair costs, and in many cases, vehicles are declared total losses because repairs are simply too costly. Vehicle theft is another significant factor. For instance, certain Hyundai and Kia models have been highly targeted due to vulnerabilities that make them easy to steal. Despite efforts by manufacturers to address these issues, insurers remain hesitant to cover these vehicles without clear proof of fixes.
Adding to the pressure on rates, many insurance companies experienced substantial losses over the past two years. While insurers profited during the COVID-19 pandemic due to reduced driving and fewer accidents, the subsequent return to normal traffic patterns, coupled with the rising costs mentioned above, reversed that trend. Insurance regulations in states like New York also limit how insurers can address losses, requiring them to renew 98% of their policies annually, even if a customer has multiple claims. Consequently, many insurers have become more selective about new policyholders and scaled back their operations in certain markets.
So, what can you do to lower your auto insurance premiums? Start by exploring all available discounts. Many insurers offer savings for completing accident prevention courses, bundling policies, or maintaining a low annual mileage. Features like anti-lock brakes, airbags, and stability control can also qualify for discounts. Additionally, some companies provide incentives for safe driving through monitoring devices or smartphone apps. Other options include raising deductibles on collision and comprehensive coverage, or even dropping those coverages on older vehicles.
Your credit score can also play a significant role in determining your premium. Studies show a strong correlation between better credit and fewer claims, which is why many insurers use credit as a factor in setting rates. Improving your credit score could lead to substantial savingsāsometimes up to 150%.
When it comes to claims, not all are treated equally. In New York, for example, certain claims, like those involving collisions with animals or being hit while parked, are not surchargeable. However, insurers may still consider claim frequency when deciding whether to renew your policy. Claims involving at-fault accidents, especially when damages exceed $2,000, are typically chargeable and will likely impact your rates for up to 39 months.
Tickets and moving violations can also affect your premiums, although insurers handle them differently than the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV). While the DMV counts violations for 18 months from the violation date, insurers typically count them for 39 months from the conviction date. This discrepancy is important to keep in mind when dealing with tickets.
Some insurers offer accident forgiveness, either automatically after a certain period or as an optional add-on. This coverage can protect you from rate increases after a first accident, which could be a worthwhile investment depending on your driving history.
In todayās challenging insurance landscape, understanding how rates are determined and exploring all possible discounts are your best defenses against rising costs. By taking proactive steps, such as improving your credit score, taking advantage of available discounts, and driving safely, you can mitigate the impact of higher premiums while maintaining the coverage you need. For personalized advice, reach out to your insurance agent or consult with a professional to make the most informed decisions about your policy.
David H Cohen has been an Allstate agent for 35 years and his son Eli Cohen owns an Independent Insurance Agency. Our family has been a member of the community for many years with all of my children attending Yeshivah of Flatbush. David still maintains an Allstate agency and can be reached at 718-874-9240 davidcohen@allstate.com
Imagine stepping into a time machine. Youāre whisked decades into the future and come face-to-face with your retired self. What would they say? Would they thank you for the decisions youāre making today, or would there be a list of regrets they wish you had avoided? Thinking about your future self can provide valuable insights into the steps you should take now to secure financial stability, peace of mind, and a fulfilling retirement.
Lesson 1: Time Is Your Most Valuable Asset
One of the first lessons your future self would likely emphasize is the power of compounding. The earlier you start saving and investing, the more time your money has to grow. For instance, if you invest $500 a month at an average annual return of 7%, it will grow to $900,527.30 in 35 years. Wait just 10 years to invest, and that same $500 monthly grows to only $405,035.85. Starting early isnāt just important ā itās transformative.
Your future self might also remind you that time isnāt just about investments; itās about life. Retirement isnāt merely a financial milestone ā itās a chapter filled with memories, adventures, and moments. The financial choices you make today buy you freedom to enjoy those moments tomorrow.
Lesson 2: You Canāt Save Your Way to WealthāInvest It
While saving is essential, your future self knows that saving alone is not enough to keep pace with inflation and rising living costs. Money sitting in a savings account earning 1% interest (or less) loses purchasing power over time. Investing in a diversified portfolio of stocks, bonds, and other assets is how you build true, lasting wealth.
Your future self might say, āDonāt be paralyzed by fear or indecision.ā Market volatility is inevitable, but history shows that long-term investors tend to be rewarded. Staying invested through market ups and downs can lead to greater wealth than trying to time the market.
Lesson 3: Health Is Wealthā Plan Accordingly
As your future self reflects on retirement, they may stress how interconnected health and wealth truly are. Medical expenses can be one of the largest costs in retirement, and without proper planning, they can derail even the most carefully constructed financial plan. Long-term care insurance, a health savings account (HSA), or simply prioritizing a healthy lifestyle today can pay dividends in the future.
Regular exercise, a balanced diet, and preventive healthcare are as much an investment in your future as any financial decision. Your future self might say, āStay active, because the true joy of retirement isnāt just financial securityāitās having the health to enjoy it.ā
Lesson 4: You Need a Purpose Beyond Money
Itās easy to focus exclusively on the numbers ā 401(k) balances, stock market returns, and withdrawal strategies. But your future self might remind you that retirement isnāt just about financial security; itās about finding purpose and fulfillment.
Many retirees struggle with the transition from work to retirement. The loss of a structured routine or professional identity can be unsettling. To combat this, your future self might encourage you to think beyond your career. What hobbies, causes, or relationships bring you joy? Investing in those areas now can help ensure a fulfilling retirement later.
Lesson 5: Debt Is a Silent Thief
If your future self could rewind time, they might urge you to address debt as early as possible. High-interest debt, like credit cards or payday loans, erodes your ability to save and invest. Even āgoodā debt, like a mortgage, needs to be managed carefully.
A retiree carrying significant debt faces a double-edged sword: reduced cash flow and increased stress. Your future self might say, āEliminate high-interest debt, and be strategic about low-interest debt.ā
Lesson 6: Donāt Underestimate the Power of Professional Guidance
Your future self has likely seen many people make costly mistakes because they didnāt seek professional advice. Whether itās tax planning, estate planning, or investment management, having a trusted financial advisor can help you avoid pitfalls and maximize opportunities.
Your future self might say, āA good advisor doesnāt just crunch numbers; they help you navigate lifeās complexities and keep your emotions in check during uncertain times.ā The peace of mind that comes from having a solid plan is invaluable.
Closing Thoughts: A Conversation Worth Having
The idea of meeting your future self is, of course, a thought experiment. But itās a powerful one. Imagining what your retired self might say can help you make smarter decisions today. By prioritizing time, investing wisely, safeguarding your health, and staying true to your values, you can build a future that your retired self will look back on with pride and gratitude.
Your future self is counting on you. What will you do today to make their life extraordinary?
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, CFPĀ® 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.
A Tribute to Sephardic Contributions in World War II
Raquel Hanon Boujo
The Sephardic Heritage Museum recently set up a showcase at the Sephardic Community Center in Brooklyn, New York, featuring a remarkable collection of artifacts from World War II. This exhibit highlights the contributions of Syrian Sephardic servicemen, alongside Egyptian, Persian, Iraqi, and other Jewish soldiers who valiantly served during the war.
Among the treasured items on display are Mickey Kaireyās tefillin bag, hat, war boots, and a heartfelt letter he wrote during his time in service. Also featured are Meyer Cohenās Army Identification Card, his Persian Gulf Command Shoulder Sleeve Insignia, a wartime meal card, A Short Guide to Syria, and A Pocket Guide to Egypt.
The exhibit includes Jack Maslatonās Certificate of Merit, awarded for his service in the European Theater Operations of the United States Army. Youāll also find a photograph of Sarah Kairey alongside fellow Red Cross volunteers, and Fortune Tawil Manopala, showcased in her raid warden uniform during the war.
One of the exhibitās highlights is a four-page record of American Syrian Jewish war veterans. These pages honor many members of our own community, including great-grandparents and grandparents who proudly served and sacrificed during this pivotal time in history.
We invite you to visit the Sephardic Community Center to experience this incredible display of heritage and history. Donāt miss this opportunity to connect with the legacy of our communityās heroes.
Raquel Hanon Boujo is an accomplished author, humorist and mother from Brooklyn NY.
Itās well known that the faculty at Magen David Yeshivah High School is unparalleled and that student-teacher relationships are our claim to fame. This yearās Educational Enrichment Program, sponsored for the success by Jacob & Shelly Orfali for the success of their children & grandchildren, was MDYHS Mystery eXpedition, which took place on Wednesday, December 4th, 2024.
The program was designed to afford every student the opportunity to get to know and bond with their teachers outside of the formal classroom. Students were invited to select any teacher that they would like the opportunity to spend a day with on a mystery expedition preselected by that teacher. Some students didnāt know where they were going until the buses pulled up to their locations! The actual trip was secondary. The point was choosing a teacher they wanted to get to know better. The day was filled with fun, bonding, learning, and excitement.
At Magen David Yeshivah High School learning takes all forms, and we are sure this out of the classroom experience was extremely valuable. Thank you Dr. Daniel Vitow and everyone who worked behind the scenes that made this day possible.
Another little Jewish girlās world completely overturned. I am screaming from the rooftops as loud as I can, but I am one person and my voice wonāt carry as far and wide as it need.Ā
As I sit in my living room with my kids safely tucked in their beds, I am reading about another little girl whose world was completely overturned.Ā The tears will not stop falling and I feel as if I was punched in the stomach.Ā I want to throw up, I want to scream, I want to run upstairs and gather my own children in a safe embrace and never let go.Ā A 7 year old child was recently kidnapped and assaulted in Ashdod.Ā The perpetrator was Jewish, looked like a nice man and said a very common lure for kids.Ā āYour father sent me to pick you up today and I have some candy for you.āĀ That is all it took, that is how quickly it took to shatter this child and her parents trust and change their lives.
This story saddens me but even more than that it angers me.Ā I have sat across principal after principal, parent after parent, telling me that I am āoverprotectiveā āwhat are the chances?ā āHashem is watchingā and other comments of the like.Ā Ā I want to say to all of you, you are right.Ā You are right!, Hashem is watching.Ā Heās watching us make mistakes, heās watching us take these precious gifts for granted, heās watching the diamonds he gave us go unprotected by the people who vowed to do that job.
Youāre right I am overprotective.Ā I spent years feeling bad about myself and doubting my need to protect all children.Ā I questioned myself, a lot. But then I came to the conclusion that, Iām fine with it, I am comfortable and happy with being overprotective.Ā Now donāt get me wrong, there is a fine line between being anxious and nervous and constantly in a state of panic versus protecting our children in the ways they deserve to be, but setting up rules, regulations and protocols to protect our neshamos?, No! That, is not overprotective, that is our job as trusted adults.
You are right āwhat are the chances?āĀ It was one story right? Leiby Kletzky was one story right? An abomination that should never happen and probably wonāt again right?Ā Wrong, there are unfortunately countless people reading this that understand all too well the dangers we are referring to.Ā If you donāt, count your brachos, but donāt get complacent.Ā Donāt be lulled into a false sense of security.Ā Donāt check out from your role of protector.
What can we do?
I run Magenu, an organization dedicated to the protection of children, and I see every day how important it is to teach our children basic safety lessons, but more importantly I see how children are so vulnerable and so trusting that it is completely insane to expect them to protect themselves.Ā To ask a child to be solely responsible for making the right decisions is unfair and unsafe.Ā Many of you are thinking, my child would never walk away from the line, my child would for sure check with me because we spoke about that.Ā Think again; when a child is in an actual situation, unless they are really prepared they will likely make the wrong decision.Ā They get confused and scared and intimidated.Ā Ā Saying NO to an adult or even speaking up is more difficult than you can imagine.Ā Ā It is therefore, the adultās job to protect that child.Ā The responsibility falls on all of us.Ā Parents, we have to talk to our kids about these types of scenarios, role play, discuss situations and what your rules are, if you never speak about it your child will never have the knowledge to pull from, if it should arise.Ā School administrators, you have to set up protocols where children are being protected, who is allowed to pick up this child? What if someone else shows up? Who is making sure the kids are getting on the buses? Who is making sure the kids are getting in the right cars? These are topics every school needs to discuss and regulate.Ā I do not think it is an easy job for a school, in fact it is really difficult, parents get upset when they have to be inconvenienced, thereās not enough staff to monitor all the kids etc.Ā These problems pale in comparison to the pain and suffering that 7 year old girl will face. Close your eyes and picture that 7 year old girl, the fear, the pain, the confusion. Now imagine telling her, that you could have prevented all that but it was too difficult to figure out.Ā Donāt be reactive be proactive.
I am screaming from the rooftops as loud as I can, but I am one person and my voice wonāt carry.Ā Please, please join in so our voices are strong and can be heard.Ā I want to protect all of our children, all of your children, donāt you?Ā Donātā you want to protect your own children, your siblingās children, your neighborās children, your nationās children?Ā Hashem is watching; letās show him how much we love his children, how grateful we are to have been blessed with watching over them.
Please join me in a night of prevention and awareness where the topics discussed will be, āwhat is the role of the adult in regards to the safety of our children?Ā Taking the responsibility off the child?ā
Benefits of Selling Your Home Without An Agent (For Sale By Owner, FSBO)
Search online and youāre sure to find people who have had success selling their homes without an agent. However, there are far more horror stories. Most sellers choose the FSBO route to avoid paying a commission to a real estate agent. Typically, the buyerās agent and the sellerās agent split a commission of 4 to 6% of the homeās purchase price. Say, the purchase price is $700,000. You can save lots of money.
When you decide to sell without an agent, you will have to study what is involved in a real estate transaction, because you are in charge. When potential buyers call to ask questions about the house, you have to answer them. The first few times, this may seem exciting, but it will eventually become tiresome. Where will you advertise your house? Do you have time to show it to potential buyers? Are you a lawyer? Youāll need to know all of the current real estate laws. Not only do you need to know the current real estate lawsāand then thereās the closing.
Selling a home is one of the largest financial transactions you will ever be a part of. Why would you want to attempt it alone?
Benefits of Hiring An Agent
Realtors sell homes faster. They have access to a multiple listing service (MLS). This is a membership only list, available to real estate brokers and agents. Not only will your agent be able to add your home to the MLS, but they also come with a built-in network of buyers looking for a home. From a strong social media presence to a well-designed website, your real estate agent brings plenty to the table.
You will have to pay a commissionāmost of the time that money is well-spent, because youāll be hiring an expert with intimate knowledge of the local real estate market and how real estate transactions work. An agent will know how to price your home just right. A list price too high will scare off potential buyers, while a list price too low may have potential buyers wondering whatās wrong with the home.
A real estate agent can be objective, without the emotional attachment you have to your home.
Plus agents have professional negotiating skills, because itās what they do for a living. Real estate transactions come with a large amount of paperwork, which can become overwhelming. Your real estate agent knows exactly how to handle the paperwork throughout the process, and they understand real estate laws. You wonāt wind up in court due to a law you were unaware of.
A real estate agent will know exactly how to show off your home in the best light with amazing listing pictures and theyāll know how to show it.
There are many benefits that come along with hiring an agent when you sell your home. Real estate transactions are complicated and the expertise of an agent is priceless. Chances are you will sell your home for a higher price and faster
PEOPLE WITH ADHD know how much the condition can affect all aspects of their life ā from how well they do in school to their relationships. But many people with ADHD may not be as aware of just how much the condition can influence their eating habits. And if left unchecked, these poor eating habits could eventually affect their mental and physical health.
Some of the most common problems are āhyper fixationā and binge eating. Hyper fixation is an intense fixation on certain activities or interests but can include eating habits, too. This means some people may only eat a specific food or meal for a while before becoming tired of it and moving on to a different food or meal.
Studies have also shown an association between ADHD and certain eating disorders, with binge eating disorders being one of the most common. Binge eating disorder is when people consume large amounts of foods over a short time, even when theyāre not hungry. Itās estimated that almost a third of people in the U.S. who have binge eating disorders also have ADHD.
Some experts believe that people with ADHD may overeat to satisfy their need for stimulation. Binge eating may also happen because ADHD makes it difficult for people to have self-control and self-regulation, meaning they may be more likely to overeat if theyāre feeling sad or angry, and they may not find it as easy to know when theyāre full.
Some evidence suggests that binge eating in people with ADHD may be attributed to a heightened neural-reward response to food rather than impulsivity. This is when the brain is exposed to a stimulus that is rewarding and responds by releasing an increased amount of dopamine, a chemical in the brain associated with reward and pleasure. However, impulsiveness (another symptom of ADHD) may also lead people to overeat ā especially foods that are unhealthy.
Some ADHD medications can also suppress appetite during the day. But as the drugās effects wear off in the evening, appetite increases, which may lead to binge eating. Sensory issues may also explain why some people with ADHD tend to eat or avoid certain foods. Certain textures or smells may cause sensory overload, making it difficult for people with ADHD to eat them ā leading to avoidance of those foods or food groups altogether. Dopamine may explain why people with ADHD prefer high-sugar foods.
Thereās also evidence that people with ADHD tend to gravitate toward junk foods, especially food that is high in sugar. This may be because high-sugar foods stimulate the release of dopamine. People with ADHD have lower levels of dopamine. As such, they may be more likely to seek dopamine out. Since eating simple carbohydrates like candy triggers a rush of dopamine in the brain, this may be why people with ADHD tend to hyper-fixate or binge on these foods.
NUTRITION AND ADHD
Not having a varied diet or only eating foods that may be high in sugar can lead to a range of health problems, from vitamin deficiencies to obesity. High-sugar diets can also affect energy levels and mood. Highly processed additives and preservatives, may also change behavior and cognitive development.
Several studies have shown nutritional deficiencies can affect behavior and cognitive function in people with ADHD. Vitamin D and magnesium, in particular, are important, they may improve attention and decrease hyperactivity somewhat. Vitamin D can also affect the way dopamine forms in the brain.
But even though ADHD can make it harder to keep eating habits in check, if you have ADHD, there are things you can do to improve the situation. Here are some of them:
1.PLAN
Shop and plan meals for the week ahead. Planning meals makes it easier to decide what and when to eat and may help you avoid buying or bingeing on unhealthy, processed foods.
2.EAT SMALL BUT NUTRITIOUS MEALS THROUGHOUT THE DAY
If these are planned, it can help you avoid filling up on unhealthy snacks ā and may also help you avoid evening binges if youāre someone who forgets to eat throughout the day or medication suppresses daytime appetite. A balance vegetable, protein and complex carbohydrates (such as chicken, beans, and whole grains) and healthy fat will help you get enough proper nutrients and vitamins but will also help you feel fuller for longer and give you energy. This also helps brain focus and function better.
3. CREATE A HEALTHY FOOD ENVIRONMENT AT HOME
Keep nutritious snacks in sight ā such as fruit or vegetables, nuts and seeds, which may help improve your attention.
4.SUPPLEMENT CERTAIN VITAMINS AND MINERALS
People with ADHD are more likely to be deficient in certain micronutrients. Ask your doctor if including omega-3, magnesium, and zinc would be right for you. These nutrients are important for ensuring the brain, body, and immune system all function at their best.
While it may not always be easy to adjust your diet, working with a nutritionist, a psychologist, a psychiatrist, getting help from a loved one, or even using a daily meal planner may all be useful in helping you get on track. Even making just a few small changes to your daily eating habits can have a big positive impact on your daily routine and wellbeing.
I see many clients with ADD/ADHD who struggle with eating disorders. Once they find what I call their right cocktail they find success. What is the right cocktail? Everyone is different. For some it is going to therapy, a dietitian, exercise and taking supplements and for some taking right medication along with above is like putting on eyeglasses for someone who couldnāt see. If you are struggling find out what your right cocktail isāreach out to professionals to help you find it so you can live you best life.
Laura Shammah MS, RDN specializes in eating disorders but has clientele that run the gamut from people dealing with PCOS, infertility, hypertension, high cholesterol, Crohnās disease, diabetes and cancer. She also helps clients who run in marathons, are pregnant and those who would like to lose or gain weight in a healthy way.
As Hanukkah and the longer winter nights approach, now is the perfect time for reflection. As leaders, we often get caught up in the day-to-day grind, but itās essential to take a step back and reflect on our growth. Not just in terms of results, but also as leadersāhow weāve developed, how our teams have grown, and how weāve overcome challenges together. Reflecting on this journey is crucial for building a culture of resilience and success, both for ourselves and for our teams.
The Power of Leadership Growth
As leaders, setting a vision for ourselves and our teams is paramount. But the journey doesnāt stop at goal-setting. Leadership is about continuously evolving, guiding others through both challenges and triumphs. Itās about fostering a culture of growth and inspiration.
Recently, a client of mine, a mid-sized business owner, came to me with a desire to boost productivity and strengthen his leadership in the face of a turbulent year. Tensions within the team had risen, and he felt he wasnāt connecting with his employees in the way he once had. He sought advice on improving his leadership and team cohesion.
What we uncovered was a fundamental shift in his own leadership mindset. Rather than focusing solely on hitting a sales target, we focused on refining his approach to leadership and team development. As he embraced growthānot only for himself but for his teamāhe found that he was able to foster deeper connections with his employees, align everyone toward the companyās vision, and strengthen the leadership infrastructure that supported his business. By focusing on leadership growth, his team became more cohesive, and their productivity surged.
Learning from Setbacks: Strengthening Your Leadership
In leadership, setbacks are inevitable. Whether itās a tough business decision, employee challenges, or external pressures, setbacks happen. But the key to leadership growth is learning from these moments, not being deterred by them.
Another client of mine hired a senior leader to help restructure the company. Despite giving the new hire the freedom to lead and a clear budget, things werenāt going as planned. Rather than viewing this as a failure, we used the situation as an opportunity to refine their leadership approach. By leaning into their companyās core strengths, we were able to make operational adjustments and refocus on leadership skills that could guide the business to success. The revenue continued to grow, and more importantly, they learned valuable lessons in leadership accountability and team dynamics.
This experience reinforced the idea that setbacks do not mean failureāthey are stepping stones in the leadership journey, providing valuable insights for future success.
Reflecting, Celebrating, and Growing as a Leader
As the long winter nights approach, itās the perfect time to reflect not only on your business progress but on your leadership development. Acknowledging growth in leadership means celebrating the strides youāve made as a guide for othersāwhether in your family, your business, or within your community. Leadership is about inspiring others, creating a culture of resilience, and setting an example for those you lead.
Here are a few practical steps to help you foster growth as a leader:
Reflect on Your Leadership Journey: Take time to evaluate your leadership development. Ask yourself how youāve grown as a leader, how youāve navigated challenges, and what youāve learned along the way.
Celebrate Leadership Wins: Acknowledge your growth as a leader. Whether itās a successful project, a positive change in your team, or the way youāve grown through challenges, take a moment to recognize your efforts.
Set Leadership Goals: Even as we celebrate growth, itās important to keep striving for improvement. What leadership skills do you want to develop? How can you better support your teamās growth in the coming year?
Embrace Leadership Challenges: In leadership, challenges arenāt roadblocksātheyāre opportunities. The more challenges you face, the more resilient and effective you become as a leader.
Foster a Supportive Leadership Environment: Create an atmosphere where your team feels encouraged to grow. Offer guidance, support, and constructive feedback to help them reach their full potential.
Hanukkah Highlights Authentic Leadership
The story of Hanukkah teaches us that great victories often come from unexpected sources. The few defeated the many, as the Maccabees, a small group of rabbis, overcame the worldās greatest empire against all odds. This victory wasnāt about military prowess; it was having a mission, unwavering commitment and leadership of a few individuals whose faith in the Almighty was unshakable, believed in their cause and led with resilience.
Wisdom is learning lessons without having to make the mistakes we fondly refer to as experience. The best leaders encourage us to grow through the challenges we face, using these experiences as lessons to become stronger, more resilient while developing future leaders.
Conclusion: A Leaderās Journey of Growth and Abundance
As leaders, we must commit to continual growth and learning. This season of reflection provides an opportunity to appreciate the progress weāve made and to set new intentions for the future. Leadership is a continuous journey of developing our strengths, overcoming setbacks, and guiding our teams with wisdom and insight.
By embracing growth, celebrating our wins, and learning from our challenges, we create a pathway for both personal and professional success. Letās tap into the lessons of Hanukkah and the wisdom of our ancestors to lead with bitachon (trust in G-d), confidence, resilience, and vision.
Letās remember to support one another as we navigate this path of continuous improvement. With help from Hashem, together, we will go further, faster, and we can achieve more than we ever thought possible.
May the Light of the Menorah illuminate this season of reflection and growth and infuse it with wisdom, strength, and abundant success for you personally and professionally. Happy Hanukkah.
Rabbi Ezra Max, PCC, MHMP, Xchange Guide & Creator of āThe Max Methodā assists businesses and professionals deal with stress and achieve success. Rabbi Max has witnessed 20 years of results helping executives, parents and teens overcome struggles, improve communication and thrive. He lives in New York with his wife and five children.
The 2020 United States Presidential Election concept. Template for background, banner, card, poster with text inscription. Vector EPS10 illustration
Linda Sadacka
In a world where headlines are shaped by legacy media and celebrities flaunt their endorsements as if theyāre creed, something remarkable is happening beneath the surface. Across New York City, the recent election results have flipped the script, proving that the real power lies not in elite endorsements or media spin, but in the hands of everyday people. This grassroots surge has sent a shockwave through the political landscape, and itās something every one of us should take to heart: our votes matter.
Take a close look at the recent shifts in traditionally working-class neighborhoods across the city. In places like Washington Heights, the West Bronx, Flushing, Richmond Hill, and Bensonhurst, we saw communities band together, ignoring the noise from mainstream influencers, and casting their votes for a change they truly believe in. Despite being flooded with media narratives and the predictable celebrity endorsements, people showed that they werenāt swayed by empty rhetoric. Instead, they chose candidates who genuinely represented their concernsāon issues like public safety, economic opportunity, and a better quality of life. This movement wasnāt driven by Hollywood; it was driven by you.
Why the Grassroots Shift Matters
These results reflect a new era of political engagement, one that is powered by voters who are tired of being told what to think. Trumpās success in these areas wasnāt handed to him by influencers or traditional media outlets. In fact, his gains were achieved despite them. This was a victory rooted in the real lives and real struggles of New Yorkers who feel overlooked by the establishment and who want leaders who will finally take their concerns seriously. This is what happens when the people take back the narrative.
Consider our own communityās role in this transformation. In the recent New York State Assembly race, we didnāt just show upāwe broke records. Voter turnout soared from approximately 23,000 to over 33,000, an increase of nearly 50%. This wasnāt a passive response; it was a deliberate choice to show that weāre tired of being ignored. Our communityās voices resonated louder than any media personality or celebrity endorsement, proving that when we come together, we have the power to change outcomes.
Why Every Vote Mattersā And What Happens When You Donāt Show Up
If youāre not registered to vote, youāre handing over your voice to others who may not share your values or understand your needs. Every single vote contributes to a bigger picture, and when we fail to show up, we leave decisions that impact our lives in the hands of those who donāt represent us. Voting isnāt just a right; itās a responsibility to ourselves, our families, and our community. Itās the single most powerful way we can demand accountability and ensure that our concerns are addressed.
When we donāt vote, weāre doing more than just skipping a civic duty. Weāre allowing those with louder platforms and larger megaphonesāoften in the form of legacy media and celebritiesāto shape policies and elect leaders who may not understand or care about our issues. By staying home, weāre giving them the power to define our future without our consent. This election showed what happens when we refuse to let that happen. It was a victory not just for candidates, but for the idea that real change is still possible when people come together.
The Path Forward: Building on the Momentum
This election cycle has taught us an important lesson: grassroots movements are not just alive, but thriving. Our communityās increased turnout and impact didnāt go unnoticed. Political leaders are beginning to understand the strength of our voice and the weight of our values. This recognition alone has already strengthened our influence, enabling us to push for policies that align with our needs more directly than ever before. But this is only the beginning.
We must keep building on this momentum. We need to encourage everyoneāfriends, family, neighborsāto register and to vote. We need to ensure that our voices arenāt just heard in one election cycle, but in every election, at every level. When we continue to show up in numbers, we send a message that canāt be ignored, that canāt be spun, and that wonāt be drowned out by celebrity endorsements or media bias.
A Call to Action: Your Vote is Your Power
As someone who has spent years urging our community to register and vote, I want you to know that this is not just about a single election. This is about our future. This is about showing that no matter what the establishment says, we are the ones who hold the real power. Weāve proven that when we stand united, no narrative is too big, no media machine too powerful to drown out our voices. Letās continue to push forward. Register to vote if you havenāt. Show up at the polls. Remind everyone around you that their vote is their power. Together, we are more than a communityāwe are a movement, and this movement has only just begun.
Linda Sadacka is a prominent political activist and community leader.
After graduating college young professionals enter the workforce at the most opportune time to begin saving for their future. With the right plan in place, and educated financial decisions, you can set yourself up for future financial success.
My personal story doesnāt differ from most in our community. After graduating college in 2015, my life was filled with a lot of new experiences. I had my first serious girlfriend. With my entry into the workforce, I suddenly was making my own money. I was also tasked with taking ownership of my financial life, something which can have ramifications far beyond the short sighted mindset of the average 22-year-old. I credit my grandparents with instilling in me an innate responsibility when it comes to money management. From a young age, they would say to me, āif you gave me a dollar I would come back with two.ā While not your standard 4th grade pitgam (proverb), it became a part of my everyday lifestyle.
Of course I was not alone in traversing this landscape of firsts. Most of my contemporaries were in the same boat. Regardless, I noticed that many of us were living very different lifestyles, which donāt always align with perceived wealth or lack thereof. There is so much temptation when we are young. Having a growing bank account with relatively low living expenses is a recipe to living life to the fullest.
– I can splurge on the sports edition, itās just a few hundred more per month.
– Why not stay at the most expensive hotel? We already spent so much on flights.
– Mom made spanech (spinach pie) with rice and lentils? Letās go out to eat again, even if we did that last night.
What I began to realize then, which has only been reinforced through my years working as a financial advisor, is that the most valuable, and easiest time to save money, is when we first begin our career. There are three critical topics, which when implemented correctly, can help you take that first important step forward:
Change Your Attitude!
Whatās the point of making money, if you canāt spend it? As an advisor, we learn that there is no one size fits all algorithm to what one should or shouldnāt spend money on. My goal is not to tell you to cut out all luxuries and save every penny until you retire at 65, and start collecting social security. The Instagram and TikTok influencers tell us to make lunch at home and brew your own coffee to work. Thatās a great start when one is looking to budget, but thatās not everyoneās goal. I live by the philosophy of āPay yourself first.ā It is imperative that from a young age, everyone begins to set some savings aside every month. An easy way to do this, is to pick a set percentage of your salary every month, and automatically transfer it into an investment account. Consistency is key, and vital to the overall success of your plan. Just as you pay rent, or a car bill, so too should you be funding your investments. Find the number that works within your lifestyle and stick to it, thereby setting yourself up for a successful future.
Start Early and Be Aggressive!
It is a common thought among the younger generation, that one wonāt be able to save early, as easily as they will be able to in the future when one typically makes more money. Getting a head start will be a huge favor to future you, especially when we utilize the power of compound interest.
Take a look at the following example:
At age 25, Sarah started transferring $500 a month into her investment account. Sarah was consistent, and stuck to her plan, continuing to transfer $500 every single month, in good times and bad, through age 65. Assuming a 7% rate of return on her investments, by the time Sarah turns 65, her account has $2,300,000. Not too shabby.
But what if Sarah just waited a little longer, when her life was more stable. If Sarah didnāt initiate her plan until age 35, but invested that same $500 per month, with the same 7% rate of return, now her account would have $1,200,000.
By starting her plan 10 years earlier, 25-year-old Sarah invested an additional $60,000, but when she reaches age 65, her investment account has an additional $1,100,000.
Your Most Important Vehicle is an Investment Vehicle!
People always ask me, āJoe, where do I start?ā
There really are so many different types of accounts and investment vehicles, that it can be overwhelming choosing whatās best for you. What your best friend or brother does is not necessarily the right choice for what works in your life. Investors have the opportunity to utilize different types of accounts, based on their personal needs. Individual brokerage accounts are great for flexibility. Retirement accounts, like IRAs and 401(k)s, offer unique tax advantages. Custodial accounts are set up for minors. Each specific vehicle serves specific financial goals and strategies. The first step is thinking about what YOUR goals are, and making a decision based on your unique circumstances.
When making major, impactful life decisions, most people talk to others for advice and feedback. Your financial life is no different, and thatās where working with a financial advisor can help. Talking to someone experienced, who has seen community members in similar circumstances, can help you understand what works best in the framework of your life. An advisor can provide valuable insight to help you plan around your goals and timelines, and how to structure each investment. q
Registered representative of, and securities and investment advisory services offered through Hornor, Townsend & Kent, LLC (HTK), Registered Investment Adviser, Member FINRA/SIPC, 800-873-7637, www.htk.com. Power Forward Group is unaffiliated with HTK. HTK does not offer tax or legal advice. Always consult a qualified adviser regarding your individual circumstances. For Educational Purposes Only ā Not to be relied upon as financial, tax, or legal advice. The hypothetical example is used for illustrative purposes only and is not representative of actual results. Any assumptions as to interest rates, rates of return, inflation, or other values are hypothetical and for illustrative purposes only. 7354537RG_Nov26
Joe Shalom began his career at his familyās wholesale business, working to optimize efficiencies in their operations and increase profitability. Looking to pave his own path, Joe made the difficult decision to leave the family business and start a career as a Financial Advisor. Joeās goal is to help young professionals, families and small businesses optimize their financial lives. Over the past 5 years, Joe has been able to help hundreds of individuals across the country build financial plans to achieve their long term goals.
Rabbi Dr. Raymond Harari was a guiding light for countless individuals, a man whose wisdom, warmth, and dedication touched the hearts of all who knew him. His passing has left a profound void, yet his lifeās work and the values he embodied remain a beacon of inspiration. For the Sephardic community, he was not merely a rabbi or an educator; he was a bridge connecting tradition and modernity, intellect and humility, faith and action.
His life was as much about family as it was about community and teaching. To his children, he was āAbba,ā a father who found joy in the small, intimate moments and who imparted lessons that would shape their lives. David, his son, spoke of his fatherās unparalleled humility and how he managed to inspire through action rather than words. Rabbi Harariās approach to life was deeply grounded in the value of doing over saying, a principle he emphasized throughout his life. Whether guiding David through his bar mitzvah or offering calm, reassuring words during difficult moments, Rabbi Harariās gentle demeanor and wisdom were constants.
Michal, one of his daughters, fondly recalled childhood car rides in their Datsun without air conditioning, where her father turned hours of traffic into cherished memories by playing games and engaging conversations. She reflected on how he was always there for her, with daily calls at 2:37 Israel time to check in and offer support. Even in his final days, Rabbi Harariās focus remained on ensuring that his family would not dwell on his illness but instead remember his legacy of love, faith, and connection.
Yael, another daughter, shared how her father seamlessly balanced his public role with his private devotion to his family. He was a man who carried a pocket notebook to cross off his tasks but never forgot to give his children his full attention. Every phone call, every planned vacation, and every family gathering was infused with his thoughtful presence. Yael also reflected on her philosophical discussions with her father during her high school years, conversations that offered solace and wisdom as she navigated her own struggles with faith. His ability to connect, to listen, and to reassure defined his relationship with her and many others.
One of the most poignant moments in his final days occurred during Simchat Torah, when Rabbi Harari mustered the strength to stand and address the crowd gathered outside his window. He read from the Torah, surrounded by his children and grandchildren, embodying his dedication to both his family and his faith. His wife, Vicky, who was his steadfast partner in life, remarked during this moment, āHe lived to serve,ā encapsulating his essence in four simple words.
Beyond his personal life, Rabbi Harari was a cornerstone of the Sephardic community. His tenure at the Yeshivah of Flatbush spanned decades, during which he shaped the lives of thousands of students. He championed the philosophy of *Torah Uāmadah* (Torah and science), integrating Jewish scholarship with secular education to nurture thoughtful, well-rounded individuals. Yet, despite his many accomplishments, he remained profoundly humble, often shying away from the spotlight to focus on meaningful action.
Rabbi Harariās love for Israel was another defining aspect of his life. He instilled in his children a deep connection to the land and its significance. Michal shared how he encouraged her move to Israel and expressed pride in the life she built there. Even as they lived continents apart, he maintained close ties through frequent visits, heartfelt emails, and unwavering support.
As the Sephardic community reflects on Rabbi Harariās life, they find comfort in the enduring legacy he leaves behind. His teachings, his kindness, and his unwavering commitment to faith and education continue to inspire. For those who knew him, he remains a guiding presence, a reminder of the power of a life lived in the service of others.
Though he is no longer physically present, Rabbi Harariās spirit endures in the lives he touched and the community he cherished. His children, now the bearers of his values, hold him close in their hearts. They recall his wisdom, his humor, and his love, striving to honor his legacy in their own lives. In the words of his family, he taught them not only how to live but how to connect deeplyāwith their faith, their community, and each other. It is through this connection that his memory will forever illuminate their paths forward.
Magen David Yeshivah
Dear Vicki, Rabbi Avi and Zehava, Michal and Avi, Yael and Ari, Dr. David and Milca, Dani and Rachel,
On behalf of Magen David Yeshivah, we extend our heartfelt condolences upon the passing of our great Rabbi, Rabbi Dr. Raymond Harari (Ztāl). It is also at this time that we extend a tremendous amount of gratitude and hakarat hatov (recognizing the good) to the Harari family for sharing the Rabbi with us all these years.
While our community has lost a giantānot only in the world of Torah, but equally in the world of character and midot tovot (positive character traits)ā it gives us solace to know that his legacy and teachings will live on through the thousands of students and community members that he undoubtedly impacted over the course of his prestigious life.
As expressed so beautifully by his family at the levaya (funeral), The Rabbi had tremendous patience; that patience came from the truest form of humility. The Rabbiās brilliance in Torah and world events coupled with his deep understanding and empathy of people deemed him the ultimate leader and, as it was so eloquently put, the āgentle giant of our timeā.
The Rabbi reached great heights and successes in all his endeavors, but true to his humble nature, Rabbi Harari (Ztāl) simply just wanted to teach. I was one of the lucky students who had the privilege to learn from Rabbi Harari (Ztāl) for four straight years in one of the most rigorous, intricate, high level learning classes that left us with a thirst for knowledge and never wanting class to end. I remember being accepted into the highest honors class at Yeshivah of Flatbush High School, and fearing I wouldnāt be able to succeed at that level, I begged my parents to switch my class. Instead, my dad took me to Rabbi Harariās office where he offered his warm smile, and promised me āI got you!ā.. Those classes, that rigor, the Rabbiās belief in me and each of his students, is the blueprint of what makes an excellent educator, and stayed with each of us forever. After all these years, I can say with certainty, the Rabbi kept his promise.
They say in Hebrew, ā×××× ×× ×××ā (From strength to strength)
Just as āThe sun rises and the sun setsā our sages teach us this is the assurance that the passing of one tsadik (a righteous person) will always be accompanied with the birth of a new tsadik.
Our community witnessed this firsthand with the succession of the great Rabbi Dr. David Eliach (Ztāl) to Rabbi Dr. Raymond Harari (Ztāl). The yeshivah continued to thrive and we as a community were the beneficiaries of unequivocally great leadership. I was reminded of that same pasuk as Rabbi Avi eulogized the passing of his father. āThe sun rises and the sun setsā¦.ā
May we continue to find comfort in this great loss and inspiration from the Rabbiās lifeās work.
With much sincerity,
Gladys Haddad.
President of Magen David Yeshivah
YESHIVAH OF FLATBUSH Alumni
In loving memory of Rabbi Dr. Raymond Harari AāH, whose legacy lives on. In Pirkei Avot it says, āFind yourself a Rabbi.ā The love of a Rabbi for his student and a student for his Rabbi is like the love of life-long friends. The relationship encourages both to live up to the best of themselves, to seek good and to be a blessing to others. You have been our Rabbi, teacher, friend, and a blessing for our entire family.
Joan & Jack Mann (ES ā74, HS ā78) and Family
Sephardic Community Center
Anyone walking into the Center will notice a giant wall in our lobby with pictures of our parents, grandparents, and great-grandparents from yesteryear. They look upon us and the next generation, reminding us that we are the product of lives lived in accordance with Torah values, among them the virtues of service to the greater family.
It seems that from the beginning of his career, Rabbi Harrari was destined to join the wall of giants whose lives made an indelible mark on the good name of our community. And while he did so with countless speeches and classes, it was his character that spoke deepest. It spoke of those long-cherished values that echo from generations past: humility, service, modesty, encouragement, and action.
It was Rabbi Harrari who introduced me on Rosh Hashanah to his shul, speaking from his heart about his beloved community and the special role the Center plays. For me personally, I was lucky to have known him at some of the highest points of my life. He was the rabbi who spoke at my wedding. I was fortunate to sit on his right as a student of his at his beloved Flatbush High School as he taught us Halacha (Jewish law), perhaps never realizing that his example spoke more powerfully than anything he taught.
May our community merit in his memory, may we remember the example he set for us in the way we act, and may his life continue to stay alive within us all as we continue to build on this incredible gift of togetherness that Rabbi Harrariās life was dedicated to.
Louis Jerome
President ā Sephardic Community Center
Rabbi Dr. Raymond Harari, AāH, was a distinguished educator and leader within the Jewish community. As the Head of School at Yeshivah of Flatbush Joel Braverman High School, he dedicated over four decades to nurturing studentsā spiritual and academic growth. For the last seven years, I had the fortune to learn with him every morning at Mikdash Eliyahu, known as āthe Avenue U Shul,ā where he served as the head Rabbi. The most amazing thing about Rabbi Harari was that each of his students was sure they were his favorite. Such a unique connection could only arise from a heart where love and caring combined with a deep understanding that all comes from Hashem. His legacy of warmth, wisdom, and unwavering faith will remain a guiding light for all who knew him and even for those who never met him.
Rabbi Harari shaped the community in ways only he was capable of doing. There were many times when challenging issues arose, whether politically charged or within the community. The Rabbi had a way of guiding you through these matters so gracefully that you would find yourself arriving at the right answer on your own, with him as a quiet, unwavering light along the way. Now, in his passing, we realize we had no idea of the giant we were learning from. I truly miss him every day.
Joey Tawil,
CEO of the Sephardic Community Center
Sephardic Community Alliance
The SCA, along with our entire community, deeply mourns the passing of our beloved Rabbi Dr. Raymond Harari, AāH. Rabbi Harari was a guiding light who touched the lives of thousands of students and families through his unwavering dedication to countless organizations, including the SCA.
Since our inception, Rabbi Harari has been an integral part of our programming. From leading our Annual Rabbi Dr. Ezra Labaton AāH Tisha BeAb Day of Learning to giving inspiring womenās weekly classes, he embodied a deep passion for Torah, intellectual honesty, commitment to tradition, and an abiding love for Medinat (sovereign land) and Eress Yisrael (land of Israel)āall values at the heart of the SCA. But above all, Rabbi Harari taught with unparalleled humility, warmth, and love for every individual he encountered.
I feel privileged to be among the thousands of students blessed to learn from him, both at the Yeshivah of Flatbush and Bnei Shaare Zion. His passion for learning and the profound lessons he shared remain etched in my memory and continue to inspire me.
Rabbi Raymond Harari, AāH, was a beacon of wisdom and kindness, and his absence will be profoundly felt. May his memory be a blessing and his legacy continue to guide us.
In the early morning hours of October 30, 2024, the Jewish community lost one of its most precious gems. Rabbi Raymond Harari served a variety of roles in the Syrian Jewish Community including Head of School at the Yeshivah of Flatbush Joel Braverman High School and as the Head Rabbi of Congregation Mikdash Eliyahu. He was also part of the rabbinical staff of Ohel Yishak in Allenhurst, NJ and previously served as the spiritual leader of Congregation Bnei Shaare Zion and Congregation Kol Israel.
A humble man, Rabbi Raymond Harari zāl was one of the worldās greatest Torah teachers. Thousands, if not more, learned from him and virtually all would testify that they cherished the experience. An untold number of his students were inspired and uplifted to become Torah teachers themselves. A substantial number of those teachers have grown into master teachers in their own right, expanding by many multiples the influence Rabbi Harari has had. Developing teachers were often advised to āgo watch Rabbi Harariā so they could witness his technical mastery of the art of teaching in a classroom.
Following in the tradition of the Rambam, Rabbi Harari believed and lived the idea that silence is golden and that one should be as clear and concise as possible. This created the space that allowed people to learn lessons from him by watching and observing how he conducted himself. He understood that people learn more from oneās actions than words and set a sterling example of what the Torah asks us to be.
Rabbi Jonathan Sacks wrote that āListening is a profoundly spiritual act, the greatest gift we can give to another human being,ā and Rabbi Harariās humility made him an outstanding listener. In every interaction, he made sure others had the space they needed to express themselves safely. He took in their words but also sensed their emotionsāhe knew where they were at. Consequently, he was loved by all. Only after listening and processing, would he offer his opinion, choosing his words carefully and always delivered with graceāgenerating a feeling of dignity for the other person.
Rabbi Harariās warmth and empathy did not detract from his strong convictions; he always made clear where he stood. Likewise, his physical strength and commitment were legendary. During the Covid-19 pandemic, Rabbi Harari was forbidden by his doctors from entering the school building. Undaunted, a tent was pitched outside the school in which he taught his Gemara (Talmud) class. Despite the need to brave the elements, his students loved the experience ā even in sub-freezing temperatures.
Rabbi Harari was a deeply spiritual person with a deep connection to Hashem. His tefillot (prayers) and shofar blowing on Yom Kippur were memorable for the many congregants he led. Frequently, he would make time for students, individually and in groups, to discuss religious, philosophical and theological issues. He was staunchly traditional, knowledgeable and committed to minhag (custom), yet open to innovation at the same time.
However, what truly set Rabbi Harari apart was his vision. He had a rare ability to see the potential in students, teachers and people that few if any others could. It was an acquired skill, something he worked on and honed. In particular, he believed strongly in educational opportunities for women. One of his proudest accomplishments was that one of his female students became the leading teacher of Daf Yomi (Talmud page of the day) for women with over 3,000 daily listeners.
Although he wore many hats ā communal rabbi, head of school, counselor ā Rabbi Harari referred to himself simply as a āteacherā. In his close to 70 years, he fulfilled this role to the fullest and it is now up to his many students to follow in his ways and continue his legacy.
Yeshivah of Flatbush
āMy relationship with Rabbi Raymond Harari goes back for almost two decades, and his influence has been deeply impactful. Both of my daughters were inspired by his Gemara teachings, which they say transformed their lives and helped guide them toward successful paths. As a Yeshivah of Flatbush alumnus, Iāve seen the lasting effect of his wisdom firsthand. The gift he gave my daughters surpasses even what I received, and his ability to inspire across generations is truly remarkable. Rabbi Harariās teachings continue to shape our familyās journey, and his legacy will stay with us for years to come.ā
-Ralph Shamah, President, Yeshivah of Flatbush
Rabbi Joseph Beyda is the Yeshivah of Flatbush Joel Braverman High School Head of School
How do you celebrate an organization that has helped literally thousands of community members? Or recognize individuals who donated years of their life to be at its helm? On Monday, November 18th, hundreds of supporters gathered to celebrate the 50th Anniversary of SBH by honoring the past and current presidents of the organization.
Congregation Shaare Zion was full of the men and women who each played a part in building SBH into what it is today, including the 10 past and current presidents: Fred Bijou, Dr. Robert Matalon, Joseph D. Beyda aāh, Dr. Mayer Ballas, Sam Sutton, Jeffrey Gindi, Victor Grazi, M.D., Lee M. Cohen, Jack A. Aini, and David J. Beyda.
M.C. Marshall Mizrahi began by introducing SBH President David J. Beyda who kicked off the evening giving each of the presidents a round of applause. Rabbi Benhaim led a very special Hamotzi (blessing of the bread) before Rabbi Eli Mansour took the stage. The rabbi so eloquently shared how SBH helped shape him from his days as a volunteer for holiday packaging during his youth.
After watching a beautiful video tribute to our presidents (available on @sbh_updates Instagram page), former SBH Board Member Rabbi Ozeri took the stage to speak about the selfless dedication it takes to take on the role of president as well as the dedication of our board members and captains. Honorary Board Member Ronnie Tawil then had the privilege to present each president with their award, as well as Mrs. Barbara Beyda who accepted it on behalf of her husband Joseph Beyda aāh. It was truly incredible to see all of these giants together on one stage for probably the first time ever, standing in unison.
President David Beyda took the stage again to share just how much SBH has grown over the last 50 years. āWith Hashemās help, the strength of the community, our dedicated volunteers and staffā¦SBH will continue to grow, to serve, and to rise to every challenge,ā said David. āBecause the spirit of service, the commitment to each other is in our DNA and is who we are,ā he continued. David touched on some of the many advancements SBH has made over the last several decades, including a full-blown counseling center, the work of our Fertility Division, and announced Lev Hatikvah, a new program that addresses the needs of widows and orphans in the community. David then announced SBHās big plans for growing its footprint: a complete two-story renovation to the flagship on Kings Highway and the purchase of a new facility for the Tawil Family Jersey Branch.
Equipped with more knowledge of the breadth and depth of SBHās many, many services, M.C. Marshall Mizrahi showed our audience just how many different people mobilize to help every single client. Through a vignette that demonstrated SBHās comprehensive holistic approach to serving its clients. Many audience members were left in awe as he took us through a mock case that ended with over two dozen professionals and volunteers involved in helping get that client back on her feet.
Following a video showcasing how we are the āBuilding Our Futureā, SBH VP Eddie Rishty presented Charles Anteby with a beautiful award to mark 15 years of his unwavering dedication to the organization and most notably our youth! Rabbi Meyer Yedid then shared his gratitude to SBH who helped him and his family when they arrived to the country.
The night closed with a very special note ā literally. We were treated to the world debut of āBy Your Sideā which was written exclusively for SBHās 50th featuring community creatives Abe Heaney, Irv Safdieh, Ralph Hanan, Isaac Silvera, Sam Tawil, Albert Ashkenazi and Marshall Mizrahi (also available on our Instagram @sbh_updates!). It truly was an incredible night that left so many motivated to volunteer, support and celebrate SBH!
