Bridge Linx began with a vision of filling a much-needed void in the community. The goal was to help the mainstream students get necessary therapy in order to succeed in a manageable and affordable structure, making it possible for all those that need it. At that time, any therapy had to be done outside of school hours and usually at a high cost, making it difficult or impossible for most students to get the help they needed. The beginning was difficult. The schools were wary of pulling their students out during school hours, working with an outside agency in their school, and how it would affect their running and operation. There was a lot of trust to build and structures to figure out in order to accomplish this mission.

Bridge Linx started in 2015 with 13 clients and 3 therapists. Now almost 10 years later Bridge Linx is servicing 175 students with 12 therapists and a total of approximately 270 sessions a week. And these numbers are continuing to grow steadily.

What we have seen and experienced over the years is a close partnership with the community schools built on trust and success. The principals look to Bridge as a partner, meeting the needs of the students that the school is not able or equipped to deal with. Knowing that there are professionals to evaluate, set goals and help the students enables them to thrive and succeed as well as empowers the teachers with skills and methods to implement and enrich the classroom structure. Our therapists offer workshops and guidance to the staff. The growth and improvements in the school’s ability to meet the growing challenges of the students has been unbelievable with the Bridge Linx partnership.

Bridge Linx is a team of trained and certified therapists who provide Speech, Occupational, Physical and Social Behavior therapy to the general mainstream students. We work with many insurances and offer scholarships to enable therapy for every child in need. We look forward to continue in our mission to help every child get the help they need to succeed.

Speech and Language
Strong language skills are required for successful learning. Starting at a young age, children must be able to follow directions, understand what is being said and process what is happening around them. They must be able to express themselves properly and socialize appropriately with their peers. As they get older, understanding complex instructions as well as comprehending and categorizing information properly and being able to take notes are necessary. Speech and language therapy help improve and build many of these important skills.

Occupational Therapy
Proper regulation and core body strength is critical in the daily function of a child. This directly affects how they focus and carry out their tasks. Strong and adequate fine motor strength is important for handwriting skills and endurance. Hand-eye coordination is critical for being able to copy from a board and complete written assignments. Occupational therapy helps improve many of these important skills.

Physical Therapy
Body strength and coordination affect the daily function in our lives, our movement and ability to carry out basic daily tasks. Children need the body control and awareness to maintain proper movement, safety awareness and health. Physical therapy helps build strength and target specific muscle weaknesses in order to help children function better.

Social Behavior
Sometimes children have trouble functioning in school settings for various reasons. Some of the goals and areas worked on to help them include emotional regulation, organizational skills, following directions and routines, social expectations, and problem solving. Social Behavior therapy is provided in the school setting. It is coordinated with the classroom teacher and parents to ensure that the goals are followed up and met. This Social Behavior program has enabled many students to succeed in the mainstream yeshivah environment and not have to attend self-contained or public school programs in order to meet their needs.

Bridge Linx continues to grow and meet the needs of the children in the community. It is a nonprofit therapy center and works with most insurances. Private scholarships are offered as needed so that all children receive the help they need, regardless of financial ability.

If Bridge Linx can be of assistance to you in any way, please reach out to us at 732-493-3670 so we can help you.

A WEEK OF RESILIENCE & RENEWAL

HANNAH ELMEKIES

LIKE SO MANY OTHERS, THE AFTERMATH OF OCTOBER 7TH DEEPLY AFFECTED ME. I YEARNED FOR A WAY TO HELP AND MAKE A DIFFERENCE. THE SEPHARDIC COMMUNITY CENTER HAD MANY ISRAEL INITIATIVES THAT I, AS THEIR YOUNG ADULT COORDINATOR, WAS CONNECTED TO, BUT IT WASN’T UNTIL I HEARD ABOUT A TRIP THEY WANTED ME TO LEAD THAT MY SPIRITS WERE LIFTED.

It was a week-long trip to NYC for 15 Israelis — all of whom had experienced trauma from the horrific events. After a few short weeks of planning and preparation, they arrived. I stood with my sign at JFK and patiently waited for them to emerge. They were all so happy and grateful to be here. We made our way to the Center building for a welcome dinner where they were greeted by community members with flags, music, and dancing. We shared dinner, followed by inspiring welcoming words by Rabbi Ricky Cohen, and then we made our way to the Empire Hotel.

The car ride to the hotel was quiet; it was just the trip participants and me, in a van, and my broken Hebrew didn’t help. The next morning, we prepared for our jam-packed day. We went to a basketball game at Madison Square Garden where we sat in a private suite, we visited the Empire State Building and had a beautiful dinner followed by a party with our young adults at Mercer Labs. The group slowly started to get more comfortable, always laughing and singing, making the best out of each activity. On Friday, we had a helicopter ride followed by a beautiful afternoon in SoHo.

Shabbat was eye-opening. We had prayers and dinner at Edmond J. Safra Synagogue followed by speeches from the group. This was when they really started to open up, each one carrying the weight of their lost loved ones on their shoulders. Listening to their stories was both heartbreaking and life-changing. They are some of the strongest individuals I’ve ever encountered. Even though they had all been through so much, they were all radiating with positivity. The rest of the week was filled with laughter, singing, and a lot of vulnerability.

“This trip was so powerful. We laughed, and we also cried quite a bit — tears of pain because of the things we went through,” shared Menajem Mendel, a trip participant.

”It was all thanks to the amazing people who were with me on this trip, that I was able to unload what I had in my heart. We’ve supported each other throughout this journey, that’s what’s special about our people, we’ll always help each other without expecting anything in return,” another member of the group added.

“The trip was both fun and meaningful. It was great seeing your community and being part of it,” expressed Yaakov Rabinowitz, another participant.

“The ability to connect with people so quickly and have a shared experience in such a powerful way was very exciting. This was a unique opportunity. It’s important to remember why we came, it was a much-needed week off from the madness,” reflected Yaniv Fried.

“I feel really privileged that I got the chance and the zechut to share my birthday with this awesome group of people. The best thing I got from this trip is definitely a new group of friends,” said Matanya Weiss.

This trip was unique because we brought the Israelis to us. They needed it much more than we thought, and I am honored to have been a part of this beautiful mission. We were able to change the lives of this special group of individuals who went through horrific tragedies and wanted to feel normal again. I will carry the lessons I took away from this week with me forever. I learned to be grateful that I am safe, that I have my family and friends, and that I am Jewish. I only knew them for one week, but they became my family forever.

We’d like to graciously thank all our sponsors and donors who made this trip possible. It wouldn’t have possible without you!

Hannah Elmekies, a graduate of Baruch College with a degree in Marketing Management, found her career trajectory redirected by the COVID-19 pandemic. A transformative trip to Israel post-October 7th ignited her passion for hesed and community service. As Young Adult Coordinator at the Center, Hannah is dedicated to fostering connections and empowerment among our young adult community.

RETHINKING THE COLLEGE EXPERIENCE

Sarina Roffé

GOING FROM HIGH SCHOOL TO COLLEGE IS A MAJOR TRANSITION FOR ANY STUDENT, BUT EVEN MORE CHALLENGING FOR STUDENTS THAT COME FROM TIGHT-KNIT COMMUNITIES WITH A VERY STRONG SENSE OF VALUES BASED ON RELIGION AND ETHNIC CULTURE. FOR THE FIRST TIME, THESE 18-YEAR-OLDS ARE EXPOSED TO PEOPLE OF DIFFERENT CULTURES, AND FOR MANY, THE DORM LIFE OF LIVING AWAY FROM HOME IS NOT AN OPTION. MANY HAVE TO BALANCE JOBS WITH WORKING TOWARDS A DEGREE.

Focus Education was started by Michael Tawil and Abraham Sultan in collaboration with Touro University to help community students succeed in college. The program is focused on helping them make the right class and scheduling choices, and meet with advisors who understand their culture and heritage. It also eliminates classes that are not geared toward the students’ chosen career path — it’s more focused.

Sultan said, “Focus presents incoming students with an accelerated route to their bachelor’s or associate’s degree in a protected and secure environment. Designed by the community for the community, the program minimizes the burden of superfluous core courses that are not directly beneficial to the chosen careers of our students and brings these young adults to the end goal faster, and safely.”

During a time when there is a war in Israel and tensions are high on college campuses, Touro University is a safe haven for college-bound students. Parents may be uncomfortable sending their children to live on college campuses where tensions are running high and there is increased antisemitism.

Sultan said the program began last fall with great success and expects to triple in size for the fall 2024 semester. Located in a brand new 30,000 square foot building on Ocean Avenue and Avenue J, Focus can accommodate up to 500 students, and is both convenient and safe. The class schedules are flexible, catering to any student’s schedule. This program is custom tailored to each individual student’s needs, allowing for a more efficient path. This is an incredible opportunity for those looking to further their educations and career prospects, with a concentrated strategy.

“We are thrilled to host Focus students on our campus,” said Dr. Henry Abramson, Dean of the campus. “Our aspiration is to provide high-quality undergraduate courses in preparation for rewarding careers in a variety of professional fields. Our university prides itself on our warm Torah environment where students can focus on their futures free from distraction. We are anticipating great things from our Focus students!”

Jack Gemal was ready to quit after his first year at Brooklyn College. The schedule was not working for him, and he found it hard to manage the enormous campus. The Focus Education program offered him a more personalized approach, smaller classes and a warm environment in a brand-new building.

“The Focus program sounded like a great opportunity for me and it really panned out,” said Jack, a marketing major. “I really learned a lot this past year and our voices were heard when we made suggestions, especially with the scheduling.”

There are courses in marketing, finance, accounting, management, digital multimedia, JAVA programming, cybersecurity and networking, sonography, real estate, para legal, and education. Focus courses can be offered in person any time of day at the new campus, or online for maximum convenience. These subjects were chosen based on community needs and feedback. More tracks are added based on interest. Students take fewer core or required courses and more courses in their area of interest.

The program has fewer liberal arts and required courses and allows for the students to obtain an associate degree in 12 to 24 months in the chosen major based on the pace the student works at. Most students can get a bachelor’s degree in three years. In addition, Touro has excellent intern job placement resources that students can take advantage of. Touro University is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.

Touro University is a worldwide accredited program that has been established for over 50 years. Students of Focus benefit from personnel, alumni, and networking during and after their time in school. Touro is an international school system on top of all academic standards.

There are academic advisors available throughout the experience, and community members who are willing to lend an ear or a hand whenever necessary. The program allows for other commitments, or employment, while still in school. The goal is to do everything to help a conscientious student reach their goal.

“The building is new and in mint condition, located at the corner of Avenue J and Ocean Avenue, so it’s close to home,” said Jack. “We can take classes at other campuses as well as those in this building. I really appreciate the online classes I can do at my own pace.

“It’s been good meeting and networking with other students. I made some new friends and developed better people skills. Students in this program have real goals. Everyone is very nice, warm and welcoming, from the professors to the students and building staff. They take care of you.”

Focus Education is a community-backed program that offers camaraderie and business networking opportunities to its students. The organization wants students to succeed and to use its vast network of community members and Touro alumni to help place all students who work hard and dedicate themselves to their field of choice.

Michael Tawil said, “In twenty years we’ll look at this program and wonder how we ever lived without it.”

To apply, please visit www.FocusEducation.us or call 718-426-5040.

A genealogist and historian, Sarina Roffé is the author of Branching Out from Sepharad (Sephardic Heritage Project, 2017). She is researching a new book: Syria – Paths to Freedom. Sarina holds a BA in Journalism, and MA in Jewish Studies and an MBA.

VICTORIA SAFDIEH

WHILE WE ARE SO EXCITED FOR THE WARM, SUNNY WEATHER AND TO WELCOME THE CHANCE TO SPEND MORE TIME WITH OUR FAMILIES, THIS TIME OF YEAR, CAN BE ESPECIALLY CHALLENGING FOR FAMILIES THAT HAVE CHILDREN WITH SPECIAL NEEDS.

They tend to greet school breaks with a mixture of feelings because the changes in routine can be very challenging. Many children with special needs thrive on having a routine and a set schedule. While it’s great to have a break from routine for a while and take some time to rest and decompress from the strain and heavy toll that school and therapy can have on them, being out of school and changing up the daily routine can be very disorienting and scary.

In an effort to create a sense of normalcy and routine as much as possible, and to help prevent sensory overload and confusion, it can help to plan a structured but a flexible routine. Surprises and fear of the unknown can trigger anxiety and stress for a child with special needs. The aim is to ensure your kids know what to expect each day, without restricting your families’ activities. You may be tempted to fill your days with activities in order to keep the boredom at bay but don’t forget these breaks can be stressful for everyone and you need to plan for some downtime each day to rest and recharge.

Here are a few suggestions of how to make this break as stress free as possible.
Make a schedule for each day on a calendar ahead of time. Sometimes certain activities are weather permitting, so create a few rainy day activities on the side in case they need to be substituted. A suggestion: not to overload the child’s senses and to minimize the stress and strain is to do half day excursions, it has been a proven successful strategy especially when going to theme parks, or local parks. After a busy and sensory stimulating morning, you can go back home for everyone to rest and relax.

Plan ahead before going out. You may want to have a prepackaged bag that is ready to go, with a change of clothes, chucks, diapers, some of your child’s favorite toys, and electronics, snacks, and books in the event that he/she becomes stressed or bored and wants something of comfort or leisure. You also may want to dress your child in bright colored clothing when you go out so that you can keep your eyes on him/her at all times. If you are planning a trip to the beach or a pool, think about what your child’s needs are for safe water play. In addition to close supervision, they may require swim diapers, adaptive flotation devices or swimsuits. Children with sensory disorders can have a tough time regulating their body temperature. They may need extra help keeping cool and remembering to drink fluids. They may also struggle with applying sunscreen. Try and get the spray-based sunscreen and roll on sunscreen can be helpful for the challenging places like the face and the back of the neck.

Be sure to include playtime in your schedule. All kids need to burn off energy, but for a child with special needs being active can be self-regulating. Give the kids time to go out and play in the yard or jump on a trampoline or mini trampoline. Sometimes buying an exercise ball to bounce or roll on can be entertaining and soothing.

Take a stroll. Taking a walk can be a nice activity, while your child gets some fresh air. It is less stimulating than other activities.

Quiet time in the afternoon is a priority to regulate the senses. Fill in the schedule with some quiet activities that can also be enjoyed as a family on days when you need to stay indoors, like coloring, reading a book, puzzles, listening to music, playing with Legos or magna-tiles. Let them watch a show or movie or play on electronics. Having said that, I wouldn’t recommend giving your child with special needs unlimited access to electronics. Doing so seems to ramp up behavioral issues. Try to limit electronic times to about an hour or so a day, usually at half hour intervals. However you plan this time, a bit of downtime is always needed and much appreciated.

Try to find some time for yourself. This might seem impossible! Even if you don’t think this can be done, you are bound to be able to snatch some time from somewhere. We are not talking about a whole morning of pampering (although that would be nice), we were talking about a half hour break while the kids are occupied with their device or while they are resting. It could even be an extra five minutes you soak up in the shower before facing the day. However you find it, utilize the opportunity and enjoy some time to yourself. Instead of recognizing how little time you have to yourself, look at the time you do have and be mentally ready to take full advantage of it.

Stay positive! Positivity is a powerful thing. Approaching this time with a positive outlook rather than a negative one will more often than not yield a positive outcome. Everyone picks up and feels the negative vibes from mom and dad and then the mood shifts, and everything falls apart. I know it sounds easier than it is, but if you are committed to being positive and you plan and prepare things in advance it will be a positive experience.

You are prepared, you have a schedule in place, you know your kids best and what will push their buttons or make them happy. Remember this short break requires patience and love. You can do this!

Victoria Safdieh is the founder of CARE and mom to children with special needs.

THE DSN BEACH CLUB BROUGHT THE ESSENCE OF A LUXURIOUS PASSOVER TRIP WITHOUT ALL THE HASSLE. FROM FAMILY-FRIENDLY ACTIVITIES TO ADULT AND SINGLES PROGRAMMING AS WELL AS GOURMET KOSHER DINING, DSN ENSURED THAT NO AGE GROUP WAS LEFT OUT.

The festivities kicked off on Friday night April 19th with Teva’s Mom’s Appreciation Shabbat Dinner, an exquisite and heartwarming event that drew over 120 community members. Moms, who had been tirelessly preparing for the upcoming holiday, were celebrated with their last hametz meal in style.

Every day of Hol Hamoed, Jeli’s and Outpost provided a rare kosher-for-Passover experience, catering to the entire community. Special menus were meticulously prepared and members were very impressed.

On Hol Hamoed Thursday, April 25th, Israeli artist Tomer Peretz rejoined his DSN Beach Club family and added a touch of creativity with Coffee and Conversations, a community art project and jean jacket painting, drawing hundreds of participants together. Referring to the art therapy class, Florence Habert said, “We had a truly emotional, inspiring and therapeutic day. We were able to collectively paint our ideas of what life was like before October 7 on the first canvas, then the pain of that day on the second canvas and then our hopes for the future on the third canvas. It was amazing!”

For singles, DSN curated an array of events on Hol Hamoed Friday April 26th, including a basketball tournament and a volleyball tournament. Participants enjoyed the beautiful sunny day with competition and fun.

Sports and fitness enthusiasts weren’t left out either, with exhilarating fitness classes all week long and a pickleball tournament on Friday Hol Hamoed. The crowning champion with overall points was Paula Smouha. The winners for the 1st place team were Tara Oko and Paula Smouha, 2nd place went to Isaac Escava and Margie Turner and then 3rd place went to Terri Harary and Liz Sarway. Special classes included Raquel Feldman, Janie Fallas, Brenda Mamiye, Tootsie Olan, and owner and creator of Perspirology Katy Fraggos.

The kosher-for-Passover Argentinian BBQ on Thursday afternoon was a highlight for all ages, featuring succulent steak, corn ribs, and other delectable delicacies perfectly complemented by the weather. Hundreds enjoyed the delicious menu, while sitting in the pristine DSN Beach Park.

Evening entertainment was nothing short of spectacular. On Saturday night, mentalist and magician Harrison Kramer mesmerized the audience with his mind-bending tricks, including juggling real swords. On Thursday night, the Motown Band kept the energy high with their captivating performance, leaving attendees singing the night away.

For the competitive spirits, the Men’s Toleh Tournament in Teva, overseen by Commissioner Eliot Tawil, saw fierce competition with over 40 participants vying for victory in three separate categories. Sam Cohen, Eddie Tawil, Dennis Gindi, and Adam Sitt emerged triumphant in their respective divisions, showcasing impressive skills and determination. Throughout the tournament, participants were treated to an array of food and beverage items, ensuring that everyone remained energized and satisfied.

Overall, the DSN Beach Club exceeded expectations with its inaugural Passover experience, leaving a lasting impression on all those involved. It was incredible to see all generations of the community fill the building and property during Passover. Beach Club General Manager Keith Acker is excited for what’s ahead. “As summer approaches, anticipation builds for the continuation of DSN’s remarkable events and experiences, promising even more greatness to come,” he exclaimed.

RACHELLE MATSAS

OUR COMMUNITY LOST ONE OF OUR BELOVED RABBIS RECENTLY. RABBI MICHAEL HABER A”H WAS THE LEADER OF TIFERET SHAUL FOR MANY YEARS. HIS CONGREGANTS LOVED AND RESPECTED HIM, AND HE REACHED SEPHARDIM THROUGHOUT THE WORLD THROUGH HIS MANY BOOKS. HE WORKED WITH SEPHARDIC BIKUR HOLIM AND ENHANCED THE LIVES OF ALL WHO HAD THE GOOD FORTUNE OF KNOWING HIM. THE FOLLOWING ARE REFLECTIONS AND TRIBUTES WRITTEN BY COMMUNITY ORGANIZATIONS AND MEMBERS IN HIS MEMORY

Rabbi Michael Haber was very influential as a contributing writer during the early days of IMAGE Magazine. His articles were very well-received and anticipated because of their unique style and his ability to get his Torah message across in a manner that readers found very relevant. He was always available to answer our questions and provide sound advice and guidance on business and personal matters.

A Hacham of the highest caliber, as the leader of Congregation Tiferet Shaul, Rabbi Haber was renowned for his ability to teach Torah and make it accessible to others. Yet the trait that truly endeared him to his congregation was his dedication. At any hour, and for any reason, he was available to lend assistance. He told his congregants not to hesitate to call, he was there to share in their happiness in times of joy, to provide assistance and comfort in times of need, or to offer guidance at every significant juncture. He was a leading rabbi of Sephardic Bikur Holim, a founder of the Harmony organization, and rabbi of the Beit Yosef Summer Congregation of Deal.

From his position at the helm of Sephardic Press, he educated thousands with the many important and inspirational books he wrote. In fact, his works are utilized by Sephardic communities around the world. Rabbi Haber, and his wife, Molly, touched countless lives. We were blessed to have him as a rabbi in our community.

THE CENTER

I had the privilege of working closely with Rabbi Haber A”H for many years as the bookkeeper of our shul. He always treated me with great respect and listened to my opinions, even though he may have disagreed with many of them. His mind was open. There were times I changed his mind on some matters, he was never the type to dictate.
I learned a great deal from him about how to deal with people. His compassion for others was unique. I saw him by accident in the hospital several months ago while I was being treated for my illness.
His reaction upon seeing me was, “I know I have to be here, but I don’t want to see you here. Why are you here?”
In spite of the misery he was going through, his thoughts were for me. He led by example, and showed the way to live a Jewish life. His trademarks were his compassion for others, his open-mindedness and the fact that he never got angry. Of course, his humility is well-known.
He didn’t seek or like attention. He was the very best rabbi and person I’ve ever met.
Saul J. Mishaan

DSN

Our DSN organization was formed in 2006 out of the legal entity called the Deal Sephardic Youth Center (DSYC), which was created in 1986. The DSYC was located in the building behind the West Deal Shul. It had a division called ‘The Big Deal,‘ whose mission was to bring the teens and singles together in a safe community environment. We had events in the building behind the West Deal Shul. This was almost 40 years ago, when the Jersey Shore had only a fraction of the year-round population it does today.
Over many years people such as Stephen Betesh, Victoria Missry, Doris Silvera, Joey Tobias and myself had the pleasure of serving the community through this entity. Guess who was our spiritual advisor and a tremendous contributor to our success at the time? Rabbi Michael Haber A”H! To know Rabbi Haber was to admire him, love him and learn from him. He was special in every meaning of the word. His speeches always had an uplifting, positive tone and a lesson to teach. I had the distinct honor to be one of his congregants at Lawrence Avenue Shul for most of my life growing up. He helped to guide us and give life lessons along with his religious instructions. He was a happy man, a brilliant man, and a kind man. I will miss him dearly. He will forever be in my heart, and in the heart of what DSN is today. May he rest in peace always.
DSN Executive Board Member Abie Ades

SAFE

We at the SAFE Foundation are deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Rabbi Michael Haber A”H, an extraordinary leader and beloved member of our community. His unwavering dedication and countless contributions have profoundly shaped and enriched the lives of so many.
Rabbi Haber’s commitment to fostering a sense of unity and family values will always be remembered and cherished. His wisdom and counsel, rooted in his experiences as a rabbi, businessman, and community member, were invaluable to many seeking guidance.
As we mourn his loss, we extend our deep appreciation for his instrumental work in building a more compassionate and unified community. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family and loved ones during this difficult time. May his memory be a blessing.

SBH

Rabbi Michael Haber A”H’s involvement in SBH dates back to when my father Joseph Beyda A”H served as president. As a board member, Rabbi Haber would attend every meeting and begin with a short but impactful dvar Torah before strongly voicing his ideas on how we could better support the community. One such example was the establishment of our SBH branch in Jersey. As a leader in Deal, Rabbi Haber saw firsthand how much our community needed the services we provided in Brooklyn. Many people would go to him for guidance on business, life, and family, so he was able to help SBH understand the broader picture of what kind of help the people needed. This led him to really advocate for what we know today as the SBH Tawil Family Jersey Branch.
Rabbi Haber was also instrumental in creating our job placement division, or what we know today as the SBH Career Services Division. He strongly supported our team to continue to focus on building this division. The ripple effect of decades of this work has positively impacted thousands of families and community members; last year alone, the division placed over 400 community members in jobs with total salaries of over $18,000,000 — all free of charge to the employer and employee.
Beyond the boardroom, Rabbi Haber had the unique ability to relate to all community members, appealing to each individual and inspiring them to volunteer. He would not only stress the effect that they could have on another, but also how much giving back would do for them. Often times, many would seek out counsel from Rabbi Haber on how to address different client cases because he would use his background as a rabbi, a businessman and a community member to truly understand what would help each individual reach their full potential.
Together with his wife Mrs. Molly Haber and their children, Rabbi Haber formed an organization called Harmony which helps couples work out their differences and has helped hundreds of marriages. It is still active today and serves as one of our strongest partners. As former SBH Executive Director Doug Balin told me, “when Rabbi and Mrs. Haber came across problems, they saw them as opportunities to be helpful.” Today we are blessed to have Mrs. Molly Haber as one of our most dedicated volunteers in the Fertility Division. Their children are following the example set by their parents and serve as community leaders. They are true exemplars of hesed, always willing to give of themselves to help SBH and our entire community.
SBH

RABBI MICHAEL HABER A”H A MAN OF ACTION

Jack Doueck

I met Rabbi Michael Haber A”H while serving on the SBH board of directors. Despite our age difference and different professional backgrounds, he always treated me as an equal, valuing my opinions and brainstorming with me as a true partner. I recall when he was a warehouse consultant, and he had an ad in a local community magazine that read: “If your warehouse is running perfectly well — don’t call us!” I asked him, “Whose warehouse runs perfectly well?” He nodded in agreement, saying, “Exactly!”

Rabbi Haber was not only my rabbi but also my close friend. We shared a special relationship, and I thank Hashem for placing him in my life. He enriched it immensely. He was a man of vision, humility, kindness, integrity, and action.

The Chesed Boomerang
In early 1994, I approached Rabbi Haber with the idea of writing a book to inspire people and volunteers to perform more acts of kindness. He not only encouraged me but also agreed to become the editor and publisher of “The Chesed Boomerang: How Acts of Kindness Enrich Our Lives,” which was published in 1997 and again in 1998. Thanks to Rabbi Haber’s guidance, the book became a success in Jewish bookstores. He meticulously edited every page, paragraph, and word. Without him, it wouldn’t have been possible, and he insisted on taking no credit at all.

For example, in the original manuscript, I quoted a Midrash explaining why G-d prevented King David from building the Bet HaMikdash. Rabbi Haber read this and crossed it out. “Rabbi,” I said, “Why did you remove the Midrash about King David in the ‘Feeding the Hungry’ chapter of the book?”

He said he didn’t think we needed it because he didn’t want anyone to be upset when they read it. Reluctantly, I followed his advice, learning that he aimed for the book’s acceptance by all Jewish communities everywhere. His long-term vision and attention to detail were unparalleled.

Another example was the cover design. Initially, it featured a young woman pretending to cross my grandmother (Mrs. Virginia Sultan) across Ocean Parkway. He liked the picture, but something about the photo bothered him. He took a marker and started scribbling on the cover. He had extended the length of the girl’s skirt so that it covered her knees, resulting in wider acceptance and distribution of the book.

The following year, Yeshivat Ateret Torah gave out “The Chesed Boomerang” to all its graduates as a graduation gift and the Chabad Rabbinical Program began requiring that all their new rabbis read the book. Naturally, I took all the credit — but he was the wind beneath my wings! It was his vision and humility that made it all possible.

Sephardic Bikur Holim and SCS
Many years before The Chesed Boomerang project, Rabbi Haber started Sephardic Career Services (SCS), a division of SBH focused on finding jobs for community members. As a board member, I gravitated to SCS and started recruiting volunteers and hiring a bigger team to grow SCS to the point where we were helping over 400 people find jobs annually. He stood in the background, encouraged, supported, and advised me — without ever taking any credit at all for anything he did. Despite my entry into his domain, he welcomed my ideas graciously, showcasing his humility and vision.

Joseph D. Beyda Tribute
When Joseph D. Beyda passed away in April 1997, I wanted to write a book about his life. Naturally, I asked Rabbi Haber if he would want to be the editor and publisher of the book. He quickly agreed. With his unwavering support, I interviewed hundreds of people and wrote “Joseph: How One Man Can Make a Difference” over the next five years. When the book came out in the summer of 2002, David Beyda hosted a special night of tribute to his dad. Rabbi Haber spoke about Joseph’s life, describing him as a man who didn’t just think about hesed but lived it. Joseph did the things that most of us only think about doing.

As I reflected on that, I realized that this also perfectly described Rabbi Michael Haber. Many people would think it would be a good idea to publish and distribute handy laminated cards with Birkat Halebanah (blessing of the moon)or Birkat Hamazon (blessing after meals) on them — Rabbi Haber actually did it!

Many people would think it would be a good idea to published and distribute books on the complex laws of mourning, or of the berachot, or kashrut, or the Jewish holidays, or a woman’s prayer book, or a transliterated Tehilim, or a special Tehilim book for various situations. Rabbi Haber spent decades writing, publishing and distributing these books — books that simplified complex laws and served crucial needs of the Jewish community. He even wrote a book about optimism and faith in Hashem entitled “Don’t Look Down,” and many others.

The Secret of His Success
Rabbi Haber’s ability to connect with all segments of the community was remarkable. His soft-spoken nature and warm smile made everyone comfortable. His appeal came from embodying two fundamental Jewish values: hesed (kindness) and emet (truth). He genuinely loved people and showed respect to every human being. When I asked him what to do on the day of my dad’s first yahrzeit, he simply advised: “Spend the day doing as many acts of kindness in his memory as you can.” This practical, life-changing guidance was something he lived himself — every single day.

Rabbi Haber’s integrity was unwavering. In all the years that I knew him, I never heard him exaggerate — even once. He ensured every story in “The Chesed Boomerang” was confirmed and properly credited. Even when a publisher charged us $500 for using a story, he insisted on paying and getting permission, reflecting his commitment to truth and integrity.

Moving to Brooklyn
In 1998, Rabbi Haber decided to move from Deal to Brooklyn. The BSZ search committee that I participated in interviewed him to be our rabbi and unanimously agreed to offer him the position. He refused. Although he would have been an instant success, in a huge shul with hundreds of congregants, he had the integrity to insist that he wanted his own shul so that he would no longer be an employee, but able to make his own decisions based on his own priorities.

He then asked me to join a subcommittee that would meet to work on establishing a new synagogue for him in Brooklyn. Before he made the move to Brooklyn there was some controversy regarding the eruv. I thought if the Rabbi held by the eruv, it would attract more congregants to his new shul, and I called him to tell him my opinion. He thought about it and decided that he would not hold by the eruv in Brooklyn. It didn’t matter how many more congregants he would attract to his new shul. He didn’t think it was permissible, so he decided against it. This decision reflected his commitment to his principles over popularity. It is another example of his integrity.

Tehilim (25:10) says: “All the ways of G-d are about kindness and truth for those who keep His covenant and His testimonies.” Rabbi Haber embodied these “ways of G-d” — hesed and emet.

I thank Hashem for the great berachah of putting Rabbi Michael Haber in my life. He took a sincere interest in everything I did and treated me like a partner, an equal — yet he was a role model who guided me, encouraged me, and taught me Torah. He was a man of hesed, emet, and action — who did the things many of us only dream about doing. I’m going to miss him every day.

Tehi Nishmato Serurah B’srour Hahayim (May his soul be bound up in the bond of life).
Amen.

Jack Doueck is the author of “Six Steps to Overcoming Adversity: How to Turn Setbacks into Comebacks,” and “Joseph: How One Man Can Make a Difference,” among other books.

ARI BAUM, CFP®

WHAT’S THE “HOTTEST” FINANCIAL TIP OR “TRADE SECRET” YOU’VE SEEN ON SOCIAL MEDIA RECENTLY? WHAT ABOUT RETIREMENT HACKS, CRYPTO OFFERS, OR “CUTTING-EDGE” INVESTING ADVICE? IF YOU’RE A SOCIAL MEDIA USER (LIKE MOST), THE FINANCIAL “EXPERT” CHATTER IS ALMOST INESCAPABLE.

So-called “finfluencers” are on nearly every social platform. They tend to offer shortcuts and make grand promises and claims that seem too good to be true. More than ever, people are using social media to learn about money matters.

To help you spot and steer clear of the snake oil, here’s a closer look at today’s most common social media scams, their tactics, and red flags for spotting them.

1. Shopping & Discount Scams
   Get the best deal on our super exclusive product, but only if you buy now!

That’s the hard line many social media shopping scams proclaim. They entice eager shoppers with too-good-to-be-true offers. After taking the bait and making the purchase, the shopper gets nothing — or they’re sent a poor-quality item that doesn’t match its advertisement.

Tactics: Social media shopping scams usually rely on bait-and-switch tactics, often coupled with a sense of urgency, to get people to act fast, before putting too much thought into the purchase.

Red Flags: If there’s no way to contact the seller or the product has zero reviews, take a closer look before you buy. Legitimate sellers tend to be more transparent both in how to get a hold of them and in their product reviews. Scammers are usually more vague.

2. Investment Scams
   Don’t miss out on this big opportunity to double or triple your money! But you must invest now!

These money-flipping scams typically promise extraordinary returns, with fast turnaround times. You just have to send your money overseas, buy certain crypto, or buy in on some “guaranteed” investment. Once you do, your money disappears just as fast as the con artists themself.

Tactics: High-pressure sales tactics are usually behind social media investment scams. They tend to come with “proven” claims, “guarantees,” and limited-time offers that can poke at our fear of missing out (FOMO).

Red Flags: Be suspicious of any investment opportunity on social media that touts all rewards and no risks. Avoid offers that require you to send money abroad, complete a wire transfer, or buy a prepaid debit card first. Legitimate investment opportunities are almost never 100% risk-free. So, second guess any investment offers that make those claims.

3. Giveaway, Sweepstakes & Lottery Scams
   You’ve been selected to win a free gift card for $1,000! Just click here to claim your prize in the next 5 minutes before it disappears forever!

Giveaway scams on social media can pop up suddenly, inviting you to click, like, and share a post before you can claim your prize. After you do, you won’t get money, though. Instead, you’re more likely to get malware or viruses that can steal your personal sensitive information and your money.

Tactics: Surprise, bait and switch, and playing on a sense of urgency all come into play with sweepstakes and giveaway scams on social media.

Red Flags: If you didn’t enter a giveaway, any “prize” you’re informed that you’ve won is probably not legit. Another red flag for these scams is a lack of contact information and no “official” organization behind the prize. Genuine giveaways will have ways to contact the organization associated with the prize, with published, verifiable rules and conditions for winning.

4. Job & Earnings Scams
   Earn bigger bucks and be your own boss when you work with us!

Huge paydays, mind-blowing benefits, and other lofty promises tend to be the lures with job scams on social media. They promise you millions, a better life, and more time — you just have to pay for the screening process, the “starter kit,” or the initial training. After you do, your money’s gone, and the smokescreen job offer vanishes too.

Red Flags: Take a critical eye to job opportunities that hinge on payment requests. Real job offers do not require an upfront expense for screening, consideration, or placement.

How to Protect Your Finances
on & off Social Media
Social media is still somewhat elusive, especially when talking about facts and finances. This can make it a minefield for anyone who doesn’t know how to spot the scammers and avoid the cons. No matter what social media platforms you use or why you’re on them, staying up to date with the latest scams and swindling tactics can help you make smarter choices with your money. So can a financial professional.

The content is developed from sources believed to be providing 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. This information is not intended to be a substitute for specific individualized tax advice. Consult with your financial professional regarding your specific situation.

Ari Baum, CFP® is the founder and CEO of Endurance Wealth Partners, with over 26 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.

EMPOWERING OUR COMMUNITY

THE SAFE FOUNDATION LEADS THE CHARGE AGAINST SUBSTANCE ABUSE & GAMBLING ADDICTION PREVENTION

DIANE MISHAN

IN THE HEART OF OUR COMMUNITY LIES A BEACON OF HOPE: THE SAFE FOUNDATION. THIS LICENSED OUTPATIENT DRUG, ALCOHOL, AND GAMBLING TREATMENT CENTER STANDS AS A PILLAR OF SUPPORT FOR INDIVIDUALS GRAPPLING WITH ADDICTION. YET, WHAT TRULY SETS THE SAFE FOUNDATION APART IS ITS PIONEERING APPROACH TO PREVENTIVE EDUCATION.

Through our groundbreaking school curriculum, Project SAFE, taught in over 10 community schools to a total of 3,109 students, is reshaping the narrative surrounding tough topics such as bullying, substance abuse, and body image. This transformative impact extends not only to our youths’ education but also to our overarching community wellness.

At the core of The Safe Foundation’s mission is a commitment to holistic well-being. Recognizing that addiction often stems from underlying issues, the organization provides comprehensive outpatient treatment for substance abuse and gambling addiction. From individual counseling to group therapy sessions, The Safe Foundation offers a safe and supportive environment for individuals on their journey to recovery. Moreover, it goes beyond traditional treatment methods by embracing a multifaceted approach to community wellness.

One of the most innovative aspects of The Safe Foundation’s work is its focus on foundational skills. This initiative, spearheaded by Project SAFE, aims to equip students with the knowledge and skills necessary to navigate life’s challenges. By addressing these issues head-on and providing life skill tools, The Safe Foundation empowers students to make informed choices and develop healthy coping mechanisms for any future challenges they may face.

Project SAFE, led by our Director of Community Education, Liat Dahan, has implemented a new curriculum with the help of co-curriculum writer Sally Franco, called Project SELF. This program, consisting of 20 lessons includes topics such as Who am I, foundational tools, relationship building, emotional intelligence and sense of self. Our SAFE teachers are trained and continuously supported to effectively deliver these crucial messages.

Throughout the 2023-2024 school year, alongside our weekly SAFE classes, Project SAFE coordinated 52 special programs tailored to suit the unique requirements of every school, student body, and parent community. Notable among these were workshops on body positivity at Magen David High School where female students participated in a three-part workshop series on body positivity led by Sari Dana. Throughout these sessions, they delved into the concepts of body positivity and its intersection with social media, while also addressing the importance of shedding the diet mentality and embracing positive affirmations. Students not only gained insights into the detrimental effects of diets but also learned to trust their body’s natural wisdom when it comes to food choices. Additionally, they developed a keen awareness of the harmful messages propagated by social media regarding unrealistic beauty standards. Utilizing Sari Dana’s book, “The Journey to Body Positivity,” served as a valuable resource throughout the workshops.

At Hillel Yeshiva Elementary, fourth-grade students and their parents took part in an interactive program crafted and led by Debbie Nehmad. “Stronger Together: Nurturing Values, Fostering Upstanders – A Family-Centered Program,” this initiative encouraged parents and students to collaborate in identifying their family values. Together, they explored instances where living out these values might be challenging and discovered strategies for prioritizing values and intervening when necessary. Witnessing the genuine engagement between parents and children during these significant discussions was truly heartening. A sincere thank you goes out to the fourth-grade parents of Hillel Yeshiva; their active involvement played a pivotal role in the success of this program.

In collaboration with CCSA, Project SAFE organized a program at Yeshivah of Flatbush Elementary School aimed at addressing the critical issue of drugs and alcohol among eighth-grade parents and their children. This session emphasized safety strategies and effective approaches to initiating open conversations about substance abuse. The session kicked off with a poignant video that shed light on the harsh realities of teenage substance abuse, paving the way for collaborative discussions between parents and children. Together, they brainstormed safety strategies and explored effective approaches to initiating open conversations about this sensitive topic. Children engaged in role-playing exercises to hone refusal and peer pressure management skills, while parents received additional education on recognizing addiction signs, identifying various substances, and learning how to broach the subject with their children in a non-judgmental manner. The program provided a platform for children to express their preferences regarding their parents’ responses, and vice versa, thereby fostering deeper understanding and communication within families.

We’ve introduced an emotional intelligence program through art, developed by Steven Franco, to expand traditional learning methods. Under the leadership of the Director of Education, Liat Dahan, and co-curriculum writer Sally Franco, a program was conducted at Yeshivah Prep, focusing on teaching students about their emotions. This initiative aims to lay a foundation for their lifelong emotional well-being and social development, helping them recognize, understand, and express their feelings in a healthy manner.

After piloting the program across various grades in multiple schools, our goal is to train teachers and integrate it into the school’s art curriculum next year. Barkai Yeshivah has already taken the lead by training their teachers and implementing the program into their 4th-grade classrooms!

Beyond the classroom, The Safe Foundation’s work extends to the broader community, fostering empathy, understanding, and a culture of support. As the Foundation continues to expand its reach and impact, it relies on the generosity of donors and volunteers to sustain its programs. Together, we can build a brighter future for our community — one rooted in compassion, understanding, and perseverance. The Safe Foundation stands as a shining example of the transformative power of education and community support, empowering tomorrow’s leaders and building a more resilient community.

We rely heavily on the generosity of our community to continue this crucial mission. With 80% of our budget coming from your donations, your support is vital in ensuring that we can continue to educate and empower our youth against substance abuse and gambling addiction. As we strive to make a difference in the lives of our youth, we urge you to contribute to our cause and help us reach our goals.

Please Join us Friday morning, June 28th, at 9 A.M. at the Jersey Shore for our 21st Annual Summer Breakfast Fundraiser, where every donation brings us one step closer to safeguarding our community’s future. Let’s make a lasting impact and create a safer, healthier environment for generations to come.

To donate Venmo @safe-foundation, or visit our website www.thesafefoundation.org/donate.

If you or your loved one is struggling with alcohol, drugs, or gambling don’t wait, call 718-GET-SAFE. Our team of licensed professionals are here to help you! We have offices is Brooklyn, NY and Eatontown, NJ and offer remote services when appropriate.

Diane Mishan is the Director of Marketing and Events at The SAFE Foundation.

MY OLD FRIEND

FREDDY ZALTA

THE OTHER MORNING, I HEARD A SONG BY HARRY CHAPIN, “REMEMBER WHEN THE MUSIC,” AND IT BROUGHT BACK A SENSE OF NOSTALGIA TO ME. NOT THAT IT TAKES MUCH TO MAKE ME FEEL NOSTALGIC. I THOUGHT ABOUT THOSE OLD TRANSISTOR RADIOS I USED TO HAVE AND LISTENING TO THE AM BAND AND SINGING ALONG TO THE SONGS THAT CAME FROM THAT SMALL SPEAKER.

I thought about my father, who as a kid had an aluminum radio kit he would set up on a roof and listen to whatever it would pick up.

For years I would schlep vinyl albums with me in boxes, then cassettes, CDs, and miraculously my iPad. These days I listen to any song I want to hear, and it only takes a moment at most to find it.

It’s amazing to this 57 year old man that, to this day, when I hear a song which I played on my record player that had a scratch on the vinyl, I still expect to hear that skip.

From thinking about the music I loved, my mind moved on to the plays we used to put on when a group of us were teenagers.

Bye Bye Birdie, was the first show I was in. I played Mr McAfee, the father of a teenage girl who falls in love with a Justin Bieber (circa 2000 something) like star. My “daughter” wins a lottery and this star, Conrad Birdie sleeps at the McAfee house. There begins all the hysteria.

At one point, the father, me, gets so fed up that he screams, “this is my house!”

I got so much applause from that one line that it caused a sort of rush which I would try to relive, I guess, for the rest of my life.

However, it wasn’t the performances which kept me coming back to perform many more shows. It was the bond that the cast forged. We would sit backstage in the stairwell and together sing songs — Bruce Springsteen, the Beatles, Billy Joel, and Elton John.

It’s strange and it sounds kind of foreign to me at this point in my life, but a love grew between each of us. Waiting in the stairwell for our turn to rehearse, we’d talk and we would reveal our dreams, fears, and fall in love over and over again. We would simply just hang out and talk, not in a rush to get anywhere. There were no distractions other than having to memorize our lines.

Our director, most of the time, was Steve Doueck. Somehow he would always be patient with us and despite our inability to stop performing, even off the stage, teach us about acting, life, and the importance of being team players. Later on we were blessed to have Hank Menahem, Max Anteby and Yishai Gross as our directors, among others.

The rehearsals were fun, if you ever watched a reel of bloopers, you can imagine what sort of craziness went on with teenagers blessed with undiagnosed ADHD. We definitely tested the patience of the directors and at least one of them almost blew up in front of us. We knew it was our fault, but we were kids and we tested the limits.

We didn’t want the nights to end, as if we had some intuitive sense or defense mechanisms in place to avoid this part of our lives ending.

We never went straight home after the rehearsals. Usually we would end up in a diner, Carvel or Del Rio. Filled with a false bravado only a teenager can have, we were respectful to everyone, yet we felt empowered by each other’s presence.

I would drive my friends home sometimes and occasionally we would sit in the car, outside their homes for hours, laughing and talking about our lives off stage. We would laugh. We would laugh, did I say that already? We would be cracking up all the time.

We would sing the songs in the show we were rehearsing or one of us would start singing a random tune and the rest would join in. I remember one night I was sitting alone on the stairs and I started singing a Bob Dylan song. A castmate walked in and joined me. Then another and another. Soon, we were all there and the stage manager had to pry us away to join the rehearsals.

Years later, I was in a show with some older people. I became very close to each of these ladies and gentlemen. We all shared a common sense of wanting to be heard and seen. I didn’t realize it at the time but now I do, as an adult we are subconsciously selling ourselves. We flirt, we speak nicely and we wear the masks of the faces the people want to see. We become salespeople, teachers, advisors, mothers and fathers. We will be there for whoever needs us to be. It’s in our nature, or perhaps it was passed on to us by the directors throughout the hundreds of hours of rehearsals. We want to be acknowledged, no, our actions demand we be acknowledged. Parents are the best actors or we try to be. With mountains of pressure and constant weights upon our psyches, we manage to smile and try to act as if we have it all figured out.

We learn, eventually, to admit to our shortcomings. First, unwillingly to ourselves and then to the ones who matter. So, those ladies and gentlemen and myself, we stood for each other. We each listened.

My father used to watch Al Jolson movies at home. I used to love seeing his smile and watch as his tears fell. I learned so many of those songs that I was able to sing them with the older folks in the stairwell, always with smiles and a sense of nostalgia on the faces of my friends. It was something I knew at the time, I would remember forever.

I am not talking about my championship seasons, Lord knows we played shows with only the four mothers who would show up as our full audience each evening. Our seasons, like most people’s and even sports teams, end too soon.

These days, nostalgia has taken on new meaning. I had forgotten about that fleeting time since October 7. My mind has been overwhelmed with pain and confusion.

When I am speaking about my past, I’m talking about the years when our spirits were alive and pouncing on each moment. We were young, too young to realize that those times, and our days on this earth, would be numbered.

Success and failure would never be as intense as it was then. Later on, those emotions would be lessened by life’s responsibilities and the truth in failure and success.

Falling in love would never end, only the faces and the names would change. I will never forget that sense of love, that sense of community, that sense of being seen, and being heard.

Even if the words were not our own and were rehearsed, it was us up there, all eyes and ears focused on us — and there was that gnawing feeling that we were more than what people perceived us to be and more than what we perceived ourselves to be. We were singers, actors and dancers. As artists, we reveal ourselves through our art. We have the temerity to stand naked (metaphorically) on stage revealing all of our scrapes and scars.

We get older and it’s ok. You cannot paint or inject yourself with the fountain of youth. Our lives and the lives who touched us and the lives we touched become beautiful memories.

Nostalgia can captivate us, but in truth it’s the future that revives us. Let us pray, let us join together in song, in love, friendship and faith in each other that we won’t forget our lines or miss our marks. If one of us does, we will catch him with some improvisation and an adlib or two.

Freddy has published 4 novels available at Amazon.

AT THE BROOKLYN MUSEUM

NATALIE SENIOR GREENBERG

The band had just wrapped up their tour through the UK, and already had a hit single, but they had no idea that their arrival would be met at the airport by over 4,000 screaming fans. When they arrived at the television studio for the “Ed Sullivan Show,” they could not believe that they would be playing to an audience of over 73 million! The photographs show us what it was like to look through McCartney’s eyes while the Beatles were growing to be the world’s most famous band.

Paul McCartney Photographs 1963-64: Eyes of the Storm, now at the Brooklyn Museum, showcases more than 250 of McCartney’s photos, which were recently rediscovered in his archives. Alongside the photographs are video clips and archival materials that serve as a personal and historical record of this period of time in the band’s history. The photos reveal Paul McCartney’s unique perspective from behind the camera lens, while at the same time paparazzi and fans took their own photos of the band members.

Paul McCartney’s archivist, Sarah Brown found the photographs in his library. McCartney thought the photos has been lost or stolen, but always remembered that he had taken them in the early years. There were over 1,000 photographs that the musician had taken from December 7, 1963 to February 21, 1964.

The Brooklyn Museum show, which began in London at the National Portrait Gallery, takes us through The Beatles tour of the United States and Canada from August 19 to September 20, 1964. They held 32 concerts, which included venues in Hollywood, Colorado, Chicago, New Orleans, Boston, and Jacksonville and ended in Miami. McCartney used color film for the Miami photos, perhaps because the city was so filled with color and he wanted his photos to reflect the vibrancy of Miami. We need to remember that the Beatles grew up in post-war England, and the country was just getting back to feeling joyful. The Beatles music allowed the Brits to feel happiness after so much wartime misery.

The photographs are nostalgic in the way that a family album might be. The 4 members of the group were so young, and only had each other to lean on during a time when their lives were changing so quickly and so dramatically.

If you are a photography fan, you will enjoy this show because McCartney was skilled with the camera. He had studied photography in art school before joining the band. And if you are a Beatles fan, this show is a must!

Paul McCartney Photographs 1963-64: Eyes of the Storm will be on display at the Brooklyn Museum from May 3, 2024 to August 18, 2024. Advanced tickets are recommended.

Natalie Senior Greenberg is a former Brooklyn College Art History professor. She currently volunteers to teach Art History at the SBH Senior Division.

LINDA SADACKA

AS SOMEONE DEEPLY COMMITTED TO THE PRINCIPLES OF JUSTICE AND ACADEMIC FREEDOM, I FIND THE CURRENT WAVE OF ANTISEMITISM ON COLLEGE CAMPUSES BOTH ALARMING AND DISTRESSINGLY FAMILIAR. DESPITE PUBLIC ASSERTIONS OF COMMITMENT TO DIVERSITY AND INCLUSIVITY, MANY PRESTIGIOUS INSTITUTIONS APPEAR TO BE MORE CONCERNED WITH PUBLIC RELATIONS AND POLITICAL APPEASEMENT THAN WITH CONFRONTING THE GENUINE THREATS FACED BY JEWISH STUDENTS.

lt’s time to confront an uncomfortable truth: universities’ responses to the rising tide of antisemitism are often superficial and ineffective. While these institutions might launch public awareness campaigns or host interfaith dialogues, these actions frequently serve as little more than window dressing. They do little to address the underlying attitudes or to change the campus culture that makes such hatred permissible in the first place. This is not a call to silence free speech but to challenge hateful speech with better, more persuasive speech based on truth and justice.

Legally, universities have an obligation under federal and state anti-discrimination laws to protect all students from harassment and discrimination. Ethically, they are supposed to be bastions of learning and understanding, committed to fostering an environment where ideas can be exchanged freely and safely. However, when it comes to protecting Jewish students, their actions — or lack thereof — speak louder than their policies. There is often a hesitancy to take robust action against antisemitic incidents, perhaps for fear of political backlash or accusations of stifling criticism against Israeli policies. This is a gross misapplication of the principles of academic freedom and a moral failure to protect vulnerable students.

The influence of geopolitical biases on university policies cannot be overstated. There is a troubling tendency within some academic circles to conflate legitimate criticism of Israeli government policies with outright antisemitic statements and actions. This conflation is dangerous, blurring the lines between political critique and racial hatred. Universities must be vigilant in maintaining this distinction, ensuring that their campuses do not become grounds for spreading misinformation and fostering hostility towards Jewish students.

Case in point, the recent campus visit by Representative Ilhan Omar, funded by taxpayers, raises several contentious issues, particularly when considering the presence of her daughter — who was reportedly suspended — and the exclusion of a Jewish professor from the same campus. The use of public funds for such a visit, especially under these circumstances, might be seen as a problematic endorsement of one side of a divisive debate. This situation exemplifies potential double standards in campus policies; Omar’s daughter was allowed on campus despite her suspension, whereas a Jewish professor faced restrictions, presumably for safety reasons in a hostile environment. This disparity in treatment raises serious concerns about fairness, bias, and the undermining of academic freedom and freedom of speech. Such incidents call for a need for transparency and equality in enforcing campus policies, ensuring that educational institutions remain places for balanced discourse and learning, free from political bias.

What is needed now is not more lip service to the ideals of inclusivity but a real, concrete commitment to action. Universities must enforce their anti-discrimination policies rigorously and without prejudice. They should ensure that educational programs about antisemitism and its historical and contemporary manifestations are accurate and profound, not just tick-box exercises.

Linda Sadacka is a dedicated community activist, deeply motivated by personal tragedy following the murder of a close family friend by Hamas. This pivotal event galvanized her commitment to advocacy and community leadership. As the CEO of the New York Jewish Council, Linda plays a crucial role in addressing issues that impact the Jewish community both locally and beyond.