MANAGING PARTNER DAVID HOORY SHARES HOW HE TURNED HIS ENTREPRENEURIAL DREAMS INTO A CAREER HELPING OTHERS ACHIEVE FINANCIAL SECURITY, AND EXPLAINS HOW YOU CAN DO THIS TOO.
At 12 years old, igniting my entrepreneurial spark with a small trading card booth unknowingly shaped my future, fueled my passion for business, and led me to become a life insurance agent. Itās been 19 years since I made that decision to pursue a career in financial services, and it has led to a whirlwind journey of growth, challenges, and triumphs. Today, as Managing Partner of the New York Life Brooklyn General Office, I stand as a testament to the power of daring to bet on myself and New York Life. The Brooklyn General Office is made up of an award-winning team, and is proud to have some of the highest producing agents per capita across the company.
But success isnāt just measured by these achievements, itās about the impact we make on the lives of others. One of the most rewarding aspects of my position is seeing the impact a New York Life career can have on someone and their family. The career offers opportunities for both professional and personal growth. I get a great sense of fulfillment from my involvement with Sephardic Bikur Holim (SBH), assisting with the food pantry and offering career coaching.
Working at the Brooklyn General Office gives us the opportunity to serve our local Jewish communities in Monsey, Williamsburg, and Flatbush. This spirit of unity and community extends beyond the work we do. In our office, we have a lot of mentor and mentee relationships, which help us build unwavering support, collaboration, and shared motivation among the team.
I also take pride in the inclusive and accommodating nature of this vibrant workplace. We provide kosher meals at meetings, and there are nearby prayer services for our Jewish agents. Here, you donāt have to compromise your values or sacrifice whatās dear to you. While we proudly boast a large Jewish population in our office, itās a melting pot of individuals from all walks of life. The rich diversity of backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives is what strengthens our team.
Whatās most important to us is that we give you the opportunity to pursue your passions and chart your own path to success. You can choose to be an agent, reveling in the autonomy to create your own schedule after completing all required trainings, while unlocking a world of significant income potential. Or you can progress into a managerial position, recruit and develop your own team of agents after you have met specified sales production, licensing and other internal requirements. The choice is yours, and the possibilities are endless.
If youāre an aspiring entrepreneur or interested in making a positive impact in your community, Iām here to tell you that you can build your own practice, make a difference, and achieve personal and professional success.
Through the comprehensive training and development programs, ongoing support from the company, and your unwavering commitment, you can cultivate a rewarding career centered around protecting what matters most to individuals and families in our community. If you would like to learn more about what a career as a financial professional (agent) can offer you, then letās talk.
David Hoory, CLFĀ®, LUTCFĀ® Managing Partner, New York Life Insurance Company dhoory@newyorklife.com 718-307-3400
New York Life is an Equal Opportunity Employer M/F/disability/veteran/sexual orientation/gender identity.
WHAT IF YOU COULD BLINK AND SUDDENLY BE LIVING THE RETIREMENT OF YOUR DREAMS? WHAT WOULD THAT LOOK LIKE? WOULD YOU BE RELAXING BY A WHITE SANDY BEACH? WOULD YOU BE ON AN ADVENTURE IN THE GREAT OUTDOORS? OR MAYBE YOUāD BE ENJOYING MORE TIME AROUND YOUR FAVORITE STOMPING GROUNDS.
Whatever you imagine ā and no matter when you retire or what you want to do with all your new free time ā where you live in retirement matters.
It can affect everything from your day-to-day expenses and how you get around, to your relationships and your quality of life. All of that can cost you or pay off in a BIG way, depending on where you choose to live. So how can you get it right and figure out your ideal spot?
FACTOR #1: COST OF LIVING How much are groceries, gas, and average utilities where you want to retire or live as a retiree? Whatās it going to cost you to dine out, golf, see a movie, or even live month to month in one place versus the next?
Look for that sweet spot where you can access the things you like, enjoy the good life, and still stretch your dollars far.
Tip: Research the latest cost of living data online, or take a trip to experience different places firsthand. Visiting as a tourist, youāll really get a feel for what it costs to get around.
FACTOR #2: CLIMATE Will you have to deal with dramatic temperatures or seasonal changes in certain retirement locations? How could that restrict your activities, create extra work, or present new risks for getting around?
Weather and climate year-round can shift wildly, depending on where you want to be. That could mean anything from more tourists and traffic to weather-related risks.
Tip: Rent for at least six months in your chosen retirement spot before taking the plunge to buy a house. That could uncover climate-related issues, like more bugs in the summer or freezing temperatures in the winter, that could be deal breakers for you.
FACTOR #3: ACCESS TO HEALTHCARE What doctors, dentists, and/or specialists are available in different retirement hotspots? What type of access would you have to pharmacies and emergency healthcare in one area versus another? How easy or difficult will it be to get the medical equipment or supplies you need?
Even if your health is stellar right now, thereās no telling what tomorrow will bring ā and itās no secret that age can open up the door to more health issues. That could be avoided by simply thinking about healthcare needs before making a move in retirement.
Tip: Consider telemedicine, medication subscriptions, and/or medical supply delivery options. That can eliminate the need to travel at all for some of your healthcare. Also, if youāre considering moving abroad in retirement, remember, Medicare does not cover the healthcare you receive overseas.
FACTOR #4: INFLATION The higher prices that come with inflation can put the squeeze on retirement savings. And not every area is hit the same when inflation rears its ugly head. In fact, some areas can be hit much harder, seeing prices skyrocket, while others are more insulated.
Tip: Check out food prices for a quick and easy gauge of local prices and the impact of inflation. Also, think about whether youāre open to working part-time in retirement if inflation drains your savings. Having a backup plan and knowing when to put that in play can give you some priceless peace of mind.
FINANCIAL LESSON How to Make Better Plans For Tomorrowās Life In Retirement What do you automatically consider when youāre thinking about where to live in retirement? What tends to be an afterthought ā or what have you never considered before?
However you respond to those questions, the truth is you may never want to move once you retire. Does that make sense (or cents) for you?
Do you think you will end up moving at some point after you retire? There are no cookie cutter answers or solutions here, and what makes sense for your friends or your loved ones may not be realistic for you. Plus, what fits for you now may not work in 10, 20, or even 25 years as your family and your health change.
Beyond your situation and your preferences, itās also crucial to think about the bigger picture. After all, shifts in the economy, changes in local culture, and general tech advancements can open up new possibilities. That can mean todayās plans donāt pan out to the life you want to live tomorrow. It can also mean that changing gears puts your dream retirement and a brighter future in closer reach, as long as youāre able to stay flexible and reasonably weigh out what matters most.
Thatās just one piece of the puzzle. Another one is staying connected to the folks you trust and getting a fresh perspective as you make those big decisions.
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, 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.
COUNCILWOMAN INNA VERNIKOV IS ON A MISSION TO COMBAT ANTISEMITISM WITHIN THE CITY UNIVERSITY OF NEW YORK (CUNY). HER BACKGROUND AS A YESHIVAH STUDENT COUPLED WITH HER LEGAL EXPERTISE AS AN ATTORNEY, FORGED A FORMIDABLE ADVOCATE IN THE STRUGGLE AGAINST ANTISEMITISM AND ANTI-ZIONISM.
We all know how antisemitism has infested the halls of CUNY campuses in the last decade or so. This is why the councilwoman was very vocal in her response to an incident at the CUNY School of Law. When CUNY law faculty unanimously endorsed a BDS resolution, and an antisemitic commencement speaker was invited, Councilwoman Vernikov took immediate action by defunding CUNY law school by $50,000. This move sent a clear message that she would not tolerate anti-Jewish sentiments within the institution. More recently, when a second antisemitic speaker was invited, she called upon the New York State Bar to reject admitting her as an attorney in New York, citing her clear and unacceptable antisemitic and anti-American views.
The councilwomanās commitment to fighting antisemitism at CUNY was again on display when CUNY hired Marc Lamont Hill, a figure who had been fired even by CNN due to his antisemitic statements and affiliations. Hill has supported notorious antisemite Louis Farrakhan in the past, and called for Palestine to be free āfrom the river to the seaā, a phrase often used by Hamas. At a protest led by Councilwoman Vernikov, she asked a poignant question: āWould CUNY allow notorious antisemite and white-supremacist David Duke to speak at a law school graduation? Never. Would the City University of New York hire David Duke to be a professor? Never.ā By drawing a parallel between Marc Lamont Hill and David Duke, she underscored the importance of holding individuals with a history of hate accountable for their actions, and showed that antisemitism from the Left wonāt be tolerated anymore than antisemitism from the Far-Right.
Last year, Ms. Vernikov spearheaded an unprecedented hearing in city hall that shed light on the alarming issue of antisemitism within the CUNY community that is tolerated because it is coming from the extreme Left. The hearing served as a critical platform for exposing the challenges faced by Jewish students, faculty, and staff. Finally, Jewish students and staff know that someone is determined to bring about substantial change and ensure that CUNYās commitment to ādiversity, equity, and inclusionā extends to Jewish students.
Another initiative championed by Councilwoman Vernikov was the expansion of the Israel student exchange program. By broadening the horizons of educational opportunities, she aimed to foster greater cultural understanding and empathy among students.
Additionally, she pushed for CUNY to allocate funding to support the fight against antisemitism at their colleges, ensuring that resources were available to combat the scourge of antisemitism that has reared its ugly head in Progressive institutions. After the hearing, CUNY allocated $750, 000 to antisemitism training.
And one of the more significant changes implemented, was a portal created where CUNY students can submit complaints of discrimination.
Inna Vernikovās work did not stop at the implementation of these changes. She has been working to ensure that the measures taken at the first hearing are being executed effectively. This is why she is currently actively involved in organizing a second hearing focused on the rising antisemitism at CUNY. Her aim is to ensure that the promises made are not just a formality, but a tool for change, where grievances are reviewed and investigated in a timely and judicious manner. She recognizes that merely implementing measures is not enough; they must be enforced rigorously to make a real difference.
Inna Vernikov is also advocating for a different hiring process at CUNY, one that ensures candidates with pro-Israel views are not unfairly skipped over due to their beliefs. The same extends to the selection of commencement speakers at CUNY. She is determined to make sure that graduation speeches do not incite violence, that CUNY is a free marketplace of ideas, a safe space for conservative voices, by safeguarding the integrity and values of the institution.
Inna Vernikovās efforts to combat antisemitism at CUNY are a testament to her dedication to her constituents. And while the challenges of eradicating antisemitism are formidable, Inna Vernikovās positive and determined approach serves as an inspiration. When individuals with a genuine passion for justice take a stand, change is possible.
Paid for by Friends of Inna Vernikov
Joseph Bitton is a Brooklyn activist who supports conservative values.
PEOPLE ARE ALWAYS CURIOUS ABOUT THE EXCITEMENT THAT SURROUNDS CARE AND THEY WONDER WHAT MAKES THIS ORGANIZATION SO UNIQUE AND SPECIAL. WHAT IS IT THAT DRAWS HUNDREDS OF PARENTS WITH SPECIAL NEEDS CHILDREN TO CARE? WHAT MAKES THEM ONE-OF-A-KIND AND WHAT DIFFERENTIATES CARE FROM OTHER ORGANIZATIONS THAT CATER TO CHILDREN WITH SPECIAL NEEDS?
WHAT IS THE CARE DIFFERENCE? To understand the answer is to learn about the need. Driven by parents who understand the challenges and impacts of a special child, CARE supports and provides programs for special children as well as guidance and support to the entire family as they navigate life with a special needs child. CARE for Special Children empowers parents as they cope with their struggle and CARE advisors are by their side along their journey, so they never feel alone. Connecting them with vital services, therapies, schools and specialists, it has become a lifeline to the special needs community.
While CARE may be renown for arranging memorable events and gatherings for children with special needs and their families, their mission extends far beyond that. CARE is dedicated to being a pillar of strength for families, guiding them through lifeās challenges and celebrating their triumphs together. CARE is a supportive and caring community for children and families living with special needs children.
āCARE is there for you like a family, with professionalism and privacy,ā said Sara Horowitz director at CARE. Our team of compassionate CARE advisors form the heart and soul of our organization. Our advisors are not only professionals, but also friends who understand the unique needs and experiences of families with special needs children. With unwavering dedication, our advisors stand by the families, holding their hands through every step of their journey.ā In addition, CARE organizes special events for parents and families so they can connect with others and feel understood, as well as providing in house social workers and clinics to support parents and children.
From the moment a new family joins CARE, they are warmly embraced into CAREās tight-knit community. They receive a welcome packet with information, treats for the family and a delivery of fresh flowers for Shabbat, all as a welcome gift. In 2023, CARE welcomed over 65 new families.
At the initial in-depth meeting, the parents meet with the CARE team, including Meyer and Victoria Safdieh, founders of CARE. Meyer and Victoria have been blessed with children that have their own unique challenges and needs and they understand the challenges that arise in navigating life with a child with special needs. The meeting culminates with CARE creating a plan of action and a full care plan for the child and the entire family.
The next crucial step that makes CARE so unique is āImplementation with Love.ā As families find themselves at a crossroad, uncertain of the proper path to take, CARE connects them with the right resources, advocacy and support so they receive continued guidance and love throughout their journey. Their assigned CARE advisor works closely with them to understand their specific needs and challenges. Whether itās finding the perfect school that caters to their childās needs, setting a child up with CAREās in house therapists, or even providing an encouraging pick-me-up package during difficult times, CARE is there for them in every way possible. āWhen it comes to an organization being there for their families, and providing overall comprehensive support, CARE is unparalleled,ā said Meyer Safdieh.
A GLIMPSE INTO A DAY AT THE CARE CENTER Throughout the day, CARE advisors call to check in with families and be sure that all the services and programs that CARE has arranged for them are working efficiently and well. During one check in, a mom mentioned that her mainstream child needed emotional support due to the impacts of the child with special needs. The advisor arranged for the sibling to meet with CAREās in house therapist specializing in āSibling Support.ā The child now comes for weekly therapy sessions and has been flourishing! In total to date, 1,500+ siblings have benefited from CAREās sibling programs and therapy!
Another CARE advisor is busy arranging a momās support group, when an emergency occurs and the advisor is notified that one of the children with special needs was just admitted to the hospital. She immediately jumped into action and reassured the family that everything would be ok. The advisor arranged for a CARE representative to meet with the parents and doctors to discuss a plan of action, while dedicated volunteers and delicious dinners were organized and sent to the family back home.
In another area of the CARE center, birthday bags are being filled with gifts and balloons and ready to be delivered to special needs children on their birthdays. In 2023 CARE delivered over 200 birthday bags as part of their birthday program!
Bing! A text comes into the CARE phone: āI want to thank you because I see dramatic improvements in my son since he started CAREās therapy program! It did more for Ben than we could have ever imagined!ā Scrolling through the phone, there are countless heartwarming messages from parents:
āI feel honored to be part of CARE parents events.ā āThe yoga class changed my life!ā āI love watching my daughter smile and laugh at CARE programs.ā āYou really made me cry. Itās so special how you can be there in a matter of minutes and know exactly what to do. It means a lot!ā CAREās efforts are not merely a work of heart; CARE is heart! Families find comfort knowing they have a trusted team looking out for them and their children and they experience a sense of belonging within the CARE community, utilizing CAREās programs and events as opportunities to connect, share and find solace in the company of others who truly understand their journey.
To date, with the support of our incredible community, CARE has welcomed close to 600 families, ensuring that no family walks alone on their journey. All are invited to utilize the many opportunities to join with CARE in making a difference in the lives of the extraordinary children and their families and to make a lasting and powerful impact. More information can be found at careforspecial.org.
RECENTLY, BOTH FAMILY AND FRIENDS CAME TOGETHER AT THE HOME OF RICKY AND JAMIE COHEN FOR THE LAUNCH OF RABBI SAM KASSIN’S BOOK PROFILES IN LEADERSHIP.
SARINA ROFFĆ
RECENTLY, BOTH FAMILY AND FRIENDS CAME TOGETHER AT THE HOME OF RICKY AND JAMIE COHEN FOR THE LAUNCH OF RABBI SAM KASSINāS BOOK PROFILES IN LEADERSHIP.
Rabbi Sam Kassin was confined to his home in Israel during the COVID-19 crisis and focused long enough to write Profiles in Leadership with the help of Rabbi Ralph Tawil. The book outlines the influences on Rabbi Kassinās life, those who touched him and how they led him to his passion of training rabbis and sending them out into the world to spread kiruv (Orthodox Jewish outreach).
Rabbi Kassin is best known for his 40 plus years of work at Shehebar Sephardic Center, the rabbinical college he created in Jerusalem. Since its inception in 1980, the Shehebar Sephardic Center has grown into a world-renowned institution with an outstanding reputation for high quality programs, as well as a resource for Sephardic communities worldwide.
Rabbi Kassin said that during World War II in the concentration camps, āThey would give one blanket to cover five people who had to sleep together on one bed. So, if one person on the bed had to turn over, they all had to turn over and they had to learn to do it together to survive. We the Jewish people cover the world with our blanket.ā
But how did Rabbi Kassin come to be the jovial happy person he is? Who did he meet along the way that influenced him and inspired the passion he has? What motivates him? In his book, Rabbi Kassin entertains readers with the stories and experiences that led to the creation of Shehebar Sephardic Center. He tells of his yeshivah training, the schools he attended, disagreements he had and how they were worked out. With his piercing blue eyes, Rabbi Kassin regales us with stories of the people he met, and what each of those people taught him.
āWhen you look at the insights in this book, its humbling to an extreme,ā said Ricky Cohen, who hosted the book launch at his Deal home. āAs a child, I watched greatness, and those who had the courage to make great decisions. I think this book should be required reading.ā
The very definition of the word rabbi is teacher. In Profiles in Leadership, Rabbi Kassin is the student, learning from those around him. However, he is also the leader, developing new ideas and programs that are innovative and unique.
In his book, we see the rebellious teenager, young groom, yeshivah student, teacher and problem solver. Readers see how he interacts with world leaders. But more than anything, readers see inside the mind of Rabbi Kassin, how he is 1,000% committed to helping the Jewish people and the leadership skills he uses to get things accomplished.
Readers also get to read how people around the world perceive himāin their own words. They tell of his influence and how he helped them grow. From Rabbi Moshe Shamah and the creation of Sephardic High School to his friends in Brooklyn, everyone who played a part in his life and success are included.
āI met Rabbi Kassin in 1981,ā said Rabbi Eli Mansour. āI was in Israel and he attended a bar mitzvah and ate fire. (Which is something Rabbi Kassin used to do at bar mitzvahs.) Remember that? The Lubavitcher rebbe created scholars and sent them to different locations around the world. Rabbi Kassin and his children used the same idea for Sephardim, keeping our traditions, rubbing elbows with the greatest rabbis and telling us those personal stories. Let him continue to make students and dispatch rabbis throughout the world.ā
āRabbi Kassin and I go back a long way. He truly cares for the Jewish people,ā said Morris Bailey. āHe works hard and gets spectacular results. He loves us, has compassion for us, and relates to us. Rabbi Kassin is down to earth, and he helps us enhance our lives. He is very special.ā
Readers see the lovable yet practical nature of the founder of the Shehebar Sephardic Center and how he faced overwhelmingly impossible tasks yet succeeded in accomplishing his goals. He recounts his journey from his childhood in Miami to Brooklyn and finally to Israel.
Rabbi Ari Azancot noted that he owes his very career to Rabbi Kassin. āI was out of college and had a good job. Rabbi Yosef Bitton encouraged me to study. He took me to the Shehebar Sephardic Center and Rabbi Kassin wanted me to learn full-time. I said I have to work! He went to my uncle, and my uncle and Abe Cohen funded my learning in 1983. Thatās how I got to be a rabbi. And Iāve been rabbi in Barcelona, Spain, Bogota, Colombia; Baranquilla, Colombia; France and now at Beth Torah. He is a bulldozer, he is a pusher, but Rabbi Kassin gets things done.ā
The book gives readers important lessons in leadership and how personal contact with great leaders spurred Rabbi Kassinās excited and committed approach to leadership and life. Rabbi Kassinās unconventional approach is both unique, entertaining and inspiring.
GOOGLE SAYS THAT LEGACY IS SYNONYMOUS WITH HERITAGE, SOMETHING PASSED ON FROM ONE GENERATION TO THE NEXT, SUCH AS ONEāS FAITH, ETHICS AND CORE VALUES. LEGACY MAY BE MONETARY, OR IT MAY COME FROM YOUR CHARACTER, REPUTATION AND SETTING AN EXAMPLE FOR OTHERS. IT HAS A LASTING INFLUENCE AND MEANING THAT WILL OUTLAST US.
Jack Albert Kassin, son of Albert Kassin AāH and grandson of Hakham Jacob Kassin AāH, is carrying on the family legacy, as are his children. His father and grandfather gave their time and commitment to the community, and he and his children are continuing this tradition. In July, the Sephardic Study Center (SSC) Community Legacy Award was presented to Jack A. Kassin, on the heels of opening DSN Beach Club, for his lifetime of volunteer work in the community.
āIt is so fitting that my dad is being honored by an organization that cultivates and distributes rabbis throughout the world because he is really a champion of the rabbinate. He believes they are an important leadership structure for our community. His whole life he was involved with the rabbinical council of our community,ā said his son Isaac.
āWhat better organization to honor my dad than this one?ā asked his son Albert.
āTo just think there will be many more rabbis throughout the world is really befitting because this is what my dad is all about,ā said Sally Franco, his daughter.
Upon receiving the award, Jack Kassin, in his own humble way, said, āI share this award with all of you. We are a legacy nation, a legacy people and a legacy religion. The first legacy was set down 5,000 years ago by Abraham, Isaac and Jacob. Our religion has been preserved for 5,000 years through all the ages.ā
Master of Ceremonies Harry Adjmi told Jack, āThis mission of helping others will never be complete. Thatās what we do. There is so much more we can do and so many people we can help. We will never retire, until HE decides. And I am so proud to be attached to you and be your friend.
āThe DSN Beach Club compares to nothing we have ever had before. I think it could be one of the greatest game changers ever. Six hundred to nine hundred singles show up every single week. The events donāt stop. You and your family put yourselves behind it and now you have this to show for it.ā
In honoring his father, Jackās son Albert said, āMy father personifies legacy at its core. He carries the name of our Big Gido, Chief Rabbi Hakham Yaakov Kassin AāH, and embodies the great traits that he had as well as those of my grandfather, Albert J. Kassin AāH. Beyond carrying the great qualities of these men, he added his own style and impacted the community, passing on his values to his children and grandchildren.ā
Jack A. is the legacy link between his ancestors and his descendants. Albert noted all the links in the legacy chain.Hakham Yaakov Kassin AāH, who came from a long line of rabbis, was filled with love and warmth and was great in his holiness. He protected and cared for all his children and people in the community for six decades.
The next link is Albert J. Kassin AāH, who put family first, worked hard to build his business based on honesty and ethics, and gave tzedaka in private because of his pious nature. Jack A. attributes all he has to his parents, Gladys and Albert, as they loved their children unconditionally and taught them by example.
Jack built his company to support his family and give to charity. He often interrupted important meetings to take calls from his children, because they were the most important part of his life. Jack focused his life on community service, yet never compromised his values and often turned down opportunities to protect Shabbat and holidays. In private, a community member said he called for Jackās guidance when a community member couldnāt pay his yeshivah tuition balance and the student couldnāt get her diploma to go to college. The next day the balance was paid anonymously, and the student received her diploma.
āAll his children feel they are number one in his life and we all feel a strong connection to our legacy,ā said Albert. āHe inspires us and leads by example.ā
āBig Gido and my Gido stood as role models to my father and now my father stands as a role model to me and my siblings and our children,ā said Sally. āWhen I think about my dadās journey and all the community work that he does, I canāt help but think about my mom.ā
āA personās greatest achievements donāt happen alone. It happens when you have a life partner and that truly is what my mom is for my father. Their mutual respect for each other is the bedrock, an unbelievable foundation for our family,ā said Isaac Kassin.
The family matriarch, Joyce Kassin spends all her energy and efforts to make sure the family is well, thriving and united. Full of humility, her connection to emunah is deep. She also carries on the legacy of her father, Saul Ashkenazi AāH, a leader and visionary who developed Deal community, and her mother, Sally Ashkenazi, whose wisdom permeated the home and family.
Jack Mann introduced Rabbi Sam Kassin, Dean of the Sephardic Study Center (SSC), as a man who makes things happen. A descendant of the same line of rabbis as Hakham Yaakov. Rabbi Sam Kassin presented Jack with the Community Legacy Award.
Rabbi Kassin said āI am a person who is a doer. Itās very rare that I can say I am humbled. You humble me,ā he told Jack Albert. āThat your children love you the way they do and that they see your greatness is amazing. The things you have accomplished, the things you have done, and the stature you hold, I find humbling. I want to be one of your students so I can go further.ā
He continued, āI always thought the greatness of our community was through our unity. Everyone is united, in synagogues, on the beach and in business. But when I met you, I found out that the greatest thing we have, even greater than unity, is that we worry. What do we worry about? Our people, our families, our growth and the future of our community. We have dozens of institutions that worry about everything. We had a generation that taught us how to worry about Am Israel and also to be part of the future.
āJack you are the embodiment of legacy and caring. You care ā Lawrence Ave Shul, DSN, the Gladys Kassin Mikveh, you led the charge with the Takana and there is so much more we donāt even know about. The future of our community ā the legacy that you and your family have had for four generations is inspiring to all of us.
āThe SSC has trained and sent out over 200 rabbis. I want to give our rabbis the idea of how important it is to care about the people they serve. I am grateful for you and your family. The SSC is presenting you with this Community Legacy Award for the generations your family has cared about the community and will continue to carry from generation to generation.ā
Jack is committed to the rabbis of the community and has a good deal of respect for them. It is fitting that he is being honored by the SSC, an organization that trains and sends rabbis all over the world and helps Sephardic communities grow.
THE HIGH HOLIDAYS ARE COMING AND THAT MEANS PREPARATION. IāVE BEEN PACKING MY FREEZER WITH THE USUAL SYRIAN RECIPES ā SAMBUSAK, KIBBEH, LAHAMAGENE, TWISTED CHEESE, EMPANADAS, ETC.
What traditional holiday meals could we have without those? And donāt forget some type of meshe, mezze salads at lunch, and of course, rice for homid, kefftes and lubya!
When developing my menu, I consider what is locally available in the markets and seek out new and creative ways to prepare dishes. I also like to add new things, often inspired by local in-season fresh ingredients. I donāt forget tradition, inspired by my Sito, Esther Salem, who churned out thousands of mouthwatering appetizers, mahmoul and crisp kaāack, only to have an empty freezer in hours. Salem Catering provided Syrian foods for the entire community in the mid-20th Century, in the days before there were social halls. People tell me even today that I cook like my grandmother, and I am honored her legacy lives on.
So what am I adding to the menu this year? We start with basil cucumber salad with peanuts. Our main dish is pearl couscous with zaāatar chicken with mint and pomegranate, and a side dish of rice pilaf with zucchini, apricot, almonds and chickpeas. What child doesnāt like a pasta dish? So Iāll also serve a penne pepper steak which has a pasta base my grandchildren adore.
After dinner, my mother Renee always put out an assortment of nuts, and a fresh fruit platter. I love to serve Moroccan mint tea and sweet desserts. Since apples are in season, I have included my go to apple cake recipe.
BASIL CUCUMBER SALAD WITH PEANUTS Ingredients for Dressing
4 tablespoons Lime juice
3 tablespoons olive oil
2 tablespoons rice vinegar
2 tablespoons soy sauce
4 garlic cloves, minced
2 tablespoons honey
Ingredients for Salad
2 lbs English cucumber, thinly sliced
Bunch of scallions, sliced
1 red onion, thinly sliced
Ā½ cup fresh basil, cilantro and peanuts, chopped
2 teaspoons sesame seeds
Red pepper flakes to taste
Directions Combine dressing ingredients and whisk. Place cucumbers, scallions, red onion, basil, cilantro and peanuts in a bowl. Top with dressing and toss until coated. Garnish with sesame seeds and red pepper flakes.
PEARLED COUSCOUS WITH ZAATAR CHICKEN WITH MINT AND POMEGRANATE Ingredients
8 to 12 chicken thighs and legs, skin on
Salt, pepper and paprika
5 tablespoons zaāatar
1 tablespoons tamarind paste or sauce
Olive oil
1 red onion, thinly sliced
Ā½ cup golden raisins
1Ā½ cups pearl couscous
1Ā¾ cups chicken or vegetable stock
Ā½ cup fresh parsley, chopped
Ā½ cup fresh mint, chopped
Ā¼ cup pomegranate seeds
Directions Season chicken with salt, pepper, and paprika. Mix together 3 tablespoons olive oil with 3 tablespoons of the zaāatar and tamarind. Coat chicken. In large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons olive oil, on medium high heat. In batches, add chicken, skin side down, and cook 8 minutes until crisp. Turn over and cook the other side for 2 to 3 minutes. Remove from pan. In same skillet, add onions, garlic and raisins, using Ā¼ cup stock to deglaze the pan and scrape all the bits from the bottom. Add pearled couscous and stir until lightly toasted. Add stock and parsley, placing chicken pieces on top. Allow to cook covered, on low heat for 20 to 30 minutes. Mix 2 tablespoons zaāatar with tablespoons olive oil. Spoon couscous on platter, top with chicken and drizzle the zaāatar mixture on top. Sprinkle with mint and pomegranate seeds.
RICE PILAF WITH ZUCCHINI, APRICOT, ALMONDS & CHICKPEAS Ingredients
Olive oil
1 large vidalia onion, diced
3 cloves of garlic, minced
2 cups basmati rice
3 cups water
1 cup vegetable stock
About 6 sprigs of cilantro, diced
1 lemon, zest and juiced
1 bell pepper, diced (or jalapeno for a little heat)
2 zucchini, halved lengthwise and sliced
1 14 oz can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
1 tablespoon kosher salt
Pepper to taste
4 ā 6 tablespoons shawarma spice
Ā½ cup slivered almonds
12-15 dried apricots, cut in half
Ā¼ cup craisins
1 lemon, quartered
Directions Heat olive oil in 2 qt. pot over medium high heat. Add Ā¼ of the onion and stir until softened. Stir in 3 cups rice, water, Ā¾ cup stock and salt. Bring to boil and let simmer for 5 minutes, then cover and lower heat. Let cook until rice is tender and most of the water has been absorbed, about another 10 minutes. Turn off heat. In a small bowl, add 2 tablespoons olive oil, about one clove worth of the previously minced garlic, lemon zest, green pepper, salt and pepper, cilantro and the juice of one lemon. In large fry pan, drizzle olive oil, add remaining onion and zucchini. Cook, stirring until lightly brown. Add remaining garlic, salt and pepper to taste, and shawarma seasoning. Add Ā½ cup water and Ā¼ cup stock. Stir in chickpeas. Cook another minute or 2 and smell the fragrance. Fluff rice, add pepper mixture. Fold in onion and zucchini mixture. Spoon rice onto a platter, top with almonds, craisins and apricots. Serve with lemon wedges.
PENNE PEPPER STEAK Ingredients
1 lb. penne, cooked al dente
2 tablespoons cornstarch
Ā¼ cup soy sauce
2 cups beef broth mixed with 2 tsp corn starch
3 tablespoons scotch
1 teaspoon sugar
1 teaspoon toasted sesame oil
Ā¼ cup oil
1Ā½ lbs. pepper steak cut in strips
1 onion sliced
1 each, green, red and yellow pepper ā sliced and deveined
4 cloves garlic mashed
2 teaspoons fresh ground ginger
1 bunch scallions diced ā separate white from greens
Sesame seeds
1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
Directions Boil 4 qts. salted water and cook penne al dente, according to package directions. Drain. In a bowl, whisk together the cornstarch, soy sauce, broth, scotch, sugar, and sesame oil. Pat the beef dry. In a heavy skillet or a wok, heat 1 tablespoon of oil over high heat, and then stir fry the beef in 2 batches until its browned but pink within, and then transfer it to a bowl. In the same skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of the remaining oil over heat, and stir fry the onion and bell peppers for 2 minutes, then transfer to the bowl with the beef. Add remainder of oil to skillet, then stir-fry the garlic and ginger over moderately high heat for 30 seconds. Stir the cornstarch mixture, and then add to the skillet. Cook the sauce, stirring, until its thickened. Lower heat to medium. When thickened, add the beef, and then the scallion whites, and salt to taste. On a large platter, plate the penne and top with pepper steak. Sprinkle with scallion greens, red pepper flakes and sesame seeds. Serve.
APPLE CAKE Ingredients
1Ā½ cups sugar
3 eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla
3 cups flour
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon cinnamon
2 teaspoons baking powder
1 cup raisins
1Ā½ cups oil
2 grated carrots
1 cup chopped walnuts
3 cups apples, peeled and sliced
Directions Preheat oven to 350Ė. Using a tube pan, spray with cooking spray. Beat eggs into sugar, one at a time. Add vanilla. Sift dry ingredients together. This helps the cake become light and airy. Alternating, add oil and dry ingredients to sugar mixture. Add carrots and nuts. Fold in apples. Pour batter in pan. Bake for 45 minutes. Cake is done when toothpick inserted comes out clean. Allow cake to cool. Glaze if desired.
Over the years, I have shared recipes that have appeared in the New York Times, NY Times Jewish Cookbook as well as Joan Nathanās Jewish Cooking in America (Beardsley Award). I also wrote the āFood and Drink: Modern Period, Syriaā for Brillās Encyclopedia of Jews in the Islamic World (Brill, Leiden, 2014) edited by Dr. Norman Stillman, University of Oklahoma.
Please think about getting one of my cookbooks: Backyard Kitchen: Mediterranean Salads (NY, Sephardic Heritage Project, 2016), Backyard Kitchen: The Main Course (NY, Sephardic Heritage Project, 2020) ā for yourself or as a gift from Amazon.com. They are also available for Kindle. Download the Sarinaās Sephardic Cuisine app from the Apple store and visit my website sarinassephardiccuisine.com. Enjoy!
IN THE REALM OF JEWISH MARRIAGE, THE PLIGHT OF AGUNAH WOMEN, WHO ARE UNABLE TO OBTAIN A GET, A JEWISH DIVORCE, HAS LONG BEEN A PRESSING ISSUE. ADDRESSING THIS CHALLENGE HEAD-ON, IS THE LEV ORGANIZATION (LEV MEANING HEART) WITH THE MISSION OF LIBERATING THESE WOMEN FROM THEIR AGUNAH STATUS AND ENABLING THEM TO MOVE FORWARD WITH THEIR LIVES.
In just two years, the organization has successfully obtained 19 kosher gets, with 20 additional active cases and new cases emerging regularly.
Recently, an Agunah Awareness Event was held at the DSN Beach Club in Deal, NJ shedding light on the issue of get refusal, with Rabbi Paysach Krohn, Rabbi Ronnie Kassin, and several courageous women sharing their stories. In addition, Rabbi Daniel Friedman shared what it was like to be a child of an agunah of 26 years.
Steven Ashkenazie, President of The LEV Organization, emphasized that the organization would not be deterred in supporting these women, their children, and their families, despite attempts to silence them through fear tactics.
The sensitivity of the subject matter was evident, as threats were made against rabbis involved in the event, necessitating heightened security measures. āIf this is how they act towards our beloved rabbis, you can imagine how they act towards their wives.ā
He condemned the bullying and affirmed that the organizationās focus remains on aiding agunah women and preventing anyone from being threatened or abused. The strength of unity against adversity was highlighted, even though one rabbi chose not to speak due to threats against his family.
āThe LEV Organization has a mantra and a goal that should be something we all strive for everyday of our lives, that is, turning pain into peace. If we can minimize some of that pain, we will be doing something so great,ā said Rabbi Krohn. The rabbi spoke about the difficult Covid years and gave examples of situations in which one determined person made a difference that changed the world. He spoke of how it is each personās obligation to be involved, not with anger, but with peace and kindness.
One of The LEV Organization founders, Elana Dweck, was the moderator for a panel discussion. The stories shared by the agunot at the event highlighted the devastating impact of get refusal on their lives. Along with Rabbi Friedman, the speakers included two current agunot (seven years each); and one former agunah (three years).
Rikki, who was the first agunah to receive her get through the work of The LEV Organization said āThe LEV Organization did not turn me away because I was not from the community. They embraced me and they worked with me and effectively at the end of the day, they got my get!ā
She continued, āI remember the first time I called for help. I called this one organization and I called again and again. They said we are sorry; we have no resources to do more. I called the LEV (Organization) before Pesach. They said to me āYou will make Pesach and take them (my children) on a trip during Chol Hamoed.ā I took them to Great Adventure, and I was on a roller coaster, speaking to them. They said āyou are not alone; you have an army behind you. We will support you and back you and I believed them. I started to cry in Great Adventure. I realized I was not on my own.ā
āWe were invited to an agunah event (with other families) and my child said I want to meet those people, so we went and after, my son said, āThis was best night of my entire life. Until tonight I didnāt believe anyone cared. Look how many people cared about us.ā Thatās something powerful.ā On the morning Rikki received her get, her daughter cried tears of joy, later sending her mother a note about how proud she was of her for fighting for them.
Mazie Levy has been agunah for seven years. āIt feels like a lot more than seven because you suffer for many years before that. We try to make it work but when it doesnāt, you leave. I was on an emotional roller coaster from anger to sadness and back again. Everyone has hopes and dreams and with this you canāt plan for the future. Your health is affected. So many years are lost. Your whole life is on hold. The LEV (Organization) never let us give up. They encourage us to move forward.ā
āI didnāt know how to explain the pain,ā said Esther Ohayon, who has been an agunah for seven years. āI did not realize the challenges for myself and my children. I am a mother and father to my children. I had to deal with the daily expenses, and it was me and only me they had to rely on.ā
The prolonged absence of a get not only prevents them from pursuing new relationships, remarrying, or having children but also perpetuates a lifetime of emotional distress. The LEV Organization aims to transform this pain into peace.
Each agunah case is carefully assessed through an intake process, to see if reconciliation is an option as the organization does not advocate for divorce. Unfortunately, many cases referred to The LEV Organization have already surpassed the point of reconciliation, having exhausted counseling and reconciliation efforts.
Attempts are made to listen and speak with both parties involved to peacefully mediate the issuance of the get, any custodial and assets involved. The organization serves as a safe space for individuals seeking or looking to issue a get, and they actively seek guidance from community rabbis to navigate the complexities of Jewish halacha.
Raising awareness about the issue of get refusal and showing support for agunot is crucial to preventing future cases. If a seruv (a form of contempt of court order) issued by a Bet Din (rabbinical court) in an effort to compel action by an individual is issued against the get refuser it is forbidden for the community to have any dealings with him, it is forbidden to count him as part of a minyan, it is forbidden to answer āAmenā when he recites the Kaddish prayer, he is not to be given any place to sit in a synagogue or bet midrash, it is forbidden to inquire on his welfare, and he is not to be buried in a Jewish grave.
The LEV Organization aspires to bring about systemic change, ensuring that each agunah knows she is not alone and providing them with a voice.
Couples can also take preventive measures by considering prenuptial agreements, such as those offered by the Rabbinical Council of America and the Yashar Initiative, which can help prevent future complications. Couples should speak to their rabbi to learn more and see which option is best for them.
Volunteers can contribute in various capacities, and financial support can significantly assist the agunot who often find themselves without resources to support their families.
āWe (LEV) are rescuing people that are drowning in the ocean,ā said Rikki. āI am here for so many women who were left behind. After I got my get, my family asked me āwhy are you not moving on? Get a life; do something.ā We are Jewish people, we have a heart, we have empathy, how can we move on when one other person is suffering?ā
Steven Ashkenazie concluded by emphasizing the strength and power of unity, urging everyone to join the cause against get refusal.
Elana Dweck closed out the panel discussion with a truly heartwarming appreciation for all who attended and who were watching around the world. āItās an unbelievable thing to see, a full room in front of me when we kind of all started from WhatsApp groups and texting each other.ā As the tears ran down her face, she said āIām going to be honest, I never knew anything about this world, and it is very sad that nobody really does. So I just want to thank everybody for being here. Itās unbelievable to see because I could have never imagined this.ā
By standing together, supporting one another, and spreading awareness, the organization aims to bring freedom and harmony to those trapped in the chains of get refusal.
In the face of adversity, The LEV Organization seeks to make a difference, one get at a time, and pave the way where our children and grandchildren never have to know the plight or meaning of an agunah.
Those who need help or want more information should go to www.thelev.org.
THOSE WHO REMEMBER THE SKY-HIGH INFLATION IN THE 1970S AND 1980S HAVE BEEN HAVING AN UNSETTLING FEELING OF DEJA-VU. INFLATION, WHICH HAD AVERAGED UNDER 2% FROM 2010 TO 2020, SPIKED TO 7% IN 2021. IT WAS 6.5% IN 2022 AND 4.9% IN THE FIRST QUARTER OF 2023.
Will we again have to deal with years of hyper-inflation? Probably not. In the 1980s, the Federal Reserve learned (painfully) that even the most firmly entrenched inflation could be tamed if the Fed aggressively raised its benchmark rate. The Fed has been raising it, but has been trying not to raise it so quickly that it tips us into recession.
And because inflationary expectations can get baked in, it often takes time to bring them down. So those who are currently retired or are close to retirement will need to adjust their plans to make sure they can manage during inflationary periods.
The first step is to go over your bank and credit card statements for the past few months to see where you are spending the bulk of your money. (The top expenses for retirees tend to be housing, healthcare, transportation, and food.) Also list any major expenses you are thinking of taking on (like a new car, a European vacation, or renovating your kitchen). The second step is to start thinking of ways, large and small, to save or to delay spending.
Retirees are often advised to move to a smaller house or apartment. Remember, though, that moving can be expensive, so before you commit to a move make sure you will have lower mortgage payments (or a lower rent), lower taxes, and less maintenance. On the smaller but still significant level, see if you can continue to drive your current car for a few more years. If you cannot, consider buying a secondhand car rather than a new one. If you live in an area with good public transportation, try getting along without a car for a while. Put off that kitchen renovation if you donāt have a reasonable bid from a reputable contractor. Before you commit to a long-distance vacation, compare airfares over an extended time period, and donāt purchase the ticket until you can get an unusually good deal.
Seek out small ways to save. Combine as many errands as possible to save on gas. Carpool with a neighbor if there are gatherings you both attend. Cut back on the number of times you eat out, and do the bulk of your grocery shopping at the store with the lowest prices. Pay particular attention to food you throw away, and see if you can shop more wisely. Wait for sales before you buy clothes. And check out local thrift shops.
Keep a close eye on your income as well as your expenses. Social Security has cost-of-living adjustments, but they donāt always keep up with the inflationary challenges of individual retirees. Private pension plans often make no adjustments at all for inflation. Whether a 401(k) or IRA can keep up with inflation depends on how the money within it is invested. Stocks are far more likely than bonds or cash investments to keep up with inflation and taxes. So, make sure your retirement portfolio is diversified and that a significant amount is invested in stocks (preferably mutual funds or exchange-traded stock funds), assuming that you are comfortable with the fluctuations in these investments.
A diversified portfolio also means making sure you have some guaranteed incomeāno matter what. If youāre not covered by a pension plan, consider using a percentage of your retirement savings (perhaps 10% or 20%) to purchase an immediate lifetime annuity. That way, no matter what happens to the rest of your retirement portfolio, you will have some income that is guaranteed for life. An inflationary period, paradoxically, can be a good time to purchase an annuity. Interest rates will be up, and youāll be able to lock in a payout rate that is a bit higher. Note that the annuitization period of an annuity involves payments partly representing a return of your principal, and annuities have limited liquidity.
To learn more about the information or topics discussed, please contact David Hoory at dhoory@newyorklife.com, or call him at (718)307-3400. This educational, third-party article is provided as a courtesy by David Hoory CLF, LUTCF, Managing Partner New York Life Insurance Company.
ON THE MORNING OF JULY 16TH, MELAMEDET WAS BLESSED TO CELEBRATE A BEAUTIFUL MILESTONE. THE MELAMEDET TEACHERS-IN-TRAINING HAD FINALLY COMPLETED THEIR THREE YEARS OF COURSEWORK AND WERE ABOUT TO MOVE FORWARD ON THEIR JOURNEYS TO BECOME QUALITY JUDAIC STUDIES TEACHERS THROUGH OBSERVATIONS AND MODEL LESSONS IN THE CLASSROOM AND BEYOND.
The students were celebrated with a beautiful commencement ceremony with meaningful and impactful speeches and words of wisdom from Rabbi Saul Kassin, Dr. Esther (Leventer) Betesh, Mr. Sammy Saka, Dr. Gayle Krost and the students themselves: Sally (Mizrachi) Choueka, Eileen (Franco) Dweck, Judy (Sitt) Elmann, and Mary (Jajati) Swed.
Friends and family came together to celebrate the momentous occasion and to support the young women who will BeāH be the conduits for the next generation of Jewish education.
Melamedet began four years ago with the goal of bringing more quality community Jewish educators into our community schools and after school programs.
The program aspired to bring women who would be role models inside and outside the classroom and make Torah not just another subject, but a genuine way of life. Looking at the four amazing women celebrated at the commencement ceremony ā with Hashemās help and the incredible support of teachers, board members, family and friends ā Melamedet is set to accomplish just that.
As the students were working on steps to become Judaic studies educators, Dr. Esther (Leventer) Betesh, program director, was working on her dissertation in the field of Jewish education. One significant finding that she learned throughout her research journey was that many Judaic studies teachers have the capacity to play one of the greatest roles in the religious observance and spirituality of students- Just think of the sheer amount of time students spend with teachers. The impact that teachers have on our lives is tremendous and boundless ā they are always worth investing in.
The Melamedet family all shared so much together and bonded in ways that will be cherished forever, through weddings and baby celebrations to late night conversations and meaningful events. Mary even got engaged thinking she was giving a Melamedet class that night ā thatās how much this program has become a part of everyoneās lives.
Thank you to Rabbi Saul Kassin, Rabbi Joseph Dana, Rabbi Ovadia Alouf and Dr. Gayle Krost for their guidance throughout this journey. Thank you to the amazing Melamedet teachers Rabbi David Tawil, Rabbi Joseph Dana, Mrs. Tamar Braun, Rabbi David Massry, Mrs. Benjamin, and Mrs. Lisa Didia AāH whose neshama should have an aliyah. Thank you to Bet Rachel (Larchwood Shul) for graciously hosting.
A huge thank you to Mr. Sammy Saka who believed in Melamedet and is the true representation of what it means to do things leshem shamayim. Sammy always said that even if only one Judaic studies teacher came out of Melamedet, it would be worthwhile for the generations of students they would inspire. Melamedet can proudly say that Mary, Sally, Eileen, and Judy have already inspired countless students and BeāHā many more to come.
REFLECTIONS FROM STUDENTS
Sally (Mizrachi) Choueka: Surrounded by teachers, family, and peers, the Melamedet graduation was just the beginning of a lifelong commitment to Judaic studies. Receiving our diplomas was a first step to passing on what weāve learned, and what we are yet to learn. I am so grateful for the spaces, encouragement, and finally the launch into Judaic teaching that the program has provided. Sending out a warm thank you to all who made that possible, I am looking forward to teaching with confidence.
Judy (Sitt) Elmann: Melamedetās commencement ceremony was truly inspiring and a culmination of my incredible journey with the program. The support and mentorship I received throughout my time at Melamedet have been invaluable, shaping me into a confident and skilled teacher. The experience has not only enriched my knowledge but also fostered a strong sense of community and camaraderie among students. Iām grateful for the transformative learning opportunities, and I believe future students will find Melamedet to be a nurturing and empowering environment that propels them towards success.
Mary (Jajati) Swed: Being a part of the Melamedet program for the last 4 years has been absolutely incredible. I learned so much, taught even more, and researched the true foundations of what it takes to be a sterling educator. The commencement ceremony was a beautiful celebration of the culmination of this chapter. Special thank you to all who played a part, as I eagerly anticipate the opportunity to teach with a renewed sense of passion and purpose.
Eileen (Franco) Dweck: Iām so appreciative to Melamedet for the opportunity to pursue teaching Torah. The commencement reminded me of the imperative to teach Torah, enhancing the meaning of my goal and charging me up to achieve it. Iām so excited to see my fellow graduates continue teaching and growing. From them I learned so many different ideas and perspectives that I actively include in my teaching and Iām so thankful that they made me think about teaching in a whole new way.
Eileen (Franco) Dweck: Iām so appreciative to Melamedet for the opportunity to pursue teaching Torah. The commencement reminded me of the imperative to teach Torah, enhancing the meaning of my goal and charging me up to achieve it. Iām so excited to see my fellow graduates continue teaching and growing. From them I learned so many different ideas and perspectives that I actively include in my teaching and Iām so thankful that they made me think about teaching in a whole new way.
To learn more about Melamedet please visit Melamedet.org and follow us on instagram @melamedet_.
AN EMERGENCY. A LOVED ONE IS IN THE HOSPITAL. THE CHALLENGES ARE ENORMOUS. FINDING THE RIGHT MEDICAL CARE, COPING WITH A NEW REALITY. THE FAMILY NEEDS TO BE THERE. WHERE WILL THEY SLEEP? WHAT ABOUT FOOD? THATāS WHERE CHESED 24/7 STEPS IN.
Ayour home in the hospital.ā Thatās Chesed 24/7ās motto ā to make sure family and caregivers donāt have to worry about anything except making sure their loved one gets better. As Nathan Hoffman of Chaim Medical put it so well, āWhen someone is going through a medical challenge part of the struggle is feeling alone. Chested 24/7 eliminates that feeling which allows you to focus on whatās most important, you or your loved oneās health.ā So sleeping accommodations are provided.Thereās a Chesed 24/7 hospitality room, plus daily and Shabbat/Yom Tov meal deliveries. Thereās shofars, a sukkah (we built 25 last year), lulav and etrog, Pesach Seder plates, Shabbat in a Box with electric Shabbat candles, Kiddush, and more. These rooms are visited literally hundreds of thousands of times a year. There are over half a million visits annually.
Starting from humble beginnings at Good Samaritan Hospital in Rockland County, moving on to NYP-Columbia in upper Manhattan, Chesed 24/7 now operates 25 hospitality rooms throughout the Metro area and beyond. These rooms never close. Theyāre open 24 hours a day, every single day of the year. And each hospitality room was and is a milestone event. It takes a lot for a hospital to be willing to give up space. But with perseverance and dedication, all of the major hospitals in Manhattan now have a resource that has proven to be a lifesaver for so many.
Of course each room represents a financial investment as the hospital needs funding to convert the room into a patient oasis. The Syrian community has been instrumental in the growth of this important community service, partnering with Chesed 24/7 to dedicate three hospitality rooms so far. In 2015, Debbi Gindi dedicated the Chesed 24/7 hospitality room at Weill-Cornell in memory of her beloved husband Jack M. Gindi AāH. In 2016, the Pauline and Maurice R. Cohen Hospitality Suite was dedicated by Esther and Neil Saada, Sarah and Albert Maleh, Debbi Gindi, and Rachelle and Mark Harari.
Also in 2016, at the inaugural annual Chesed 24/7 Breakfast event hosted by Ken and Lillian Cayre, the community dedicated the Chesed 24/7 Hospitality Center at Columbia Childrenās Hospital as the Circle of Friends. Major Donors included Harry and Alice Adjmi, Ben and Debra Ashkenazy, Josh and Rochel Leah Augenbaum, Jack and Joyce Kassin, Joe and Trina Cayre, Ken and Lillian Cayre, Abraham and Renee Fruchthandler, Eli and Michal Gindi, I. Chera and Sons, Zvi and Jodi Ben Haim, Jack and Miriam Basch, Eliyahu and Rina Cohen, Ralph and Vivian Sitt, Steven and Rina Vegh, Eddie and Ceryse Mizrachi, Jerry and Janet Harary, The Edmund J. Safra Synagogue, Brooklyn Rabbi Eli Mansour, Isaac and Sharon Hazan, and Saul and Brenda Hazan.
Then, most recently the Chesed 24/7 Hospitality Room at Mount Sinai Hospital, was due for an upgrade. Jeff and Rachel Sutton graciously dedicated the entrance to the room, in memory of their brother-in-law Jack Gindi AāH. Despite the Covid pandemic intervening and delaying the project, it was completed just a few months ago. It has a modern, clean new look with more improvements on the way.
Chesed 24/7 and the Syrian community have tirelessly worked together to constantly add and upgrade services. In this past year alone three new rooms were opened. More are on the way. As Rosh Hashana approaches, we pray for Hashem to grant a happy and healthy New Year for all, in the great merit of our care and support for hospital patients and their families.
WITH ROSH HASHANAH FAST APPROACHING, WE START TO THINK OF PERSONAL AND BUSINESS RESOLUTIONS THAT WILL IMPROVE OUR QUALITY OF LIFE AND FINANCES.
Now is a great time to ponder and reflect, both on our personal and business resolutions.The bookkeeping resolution for improving the financial awareness and profitability of your business is an excellent goal for the upcoming new year. These 7 bookkeeping resolutions will serve as year-round best practices.
GET YOUR BUSINESS ORGANIZED Keep complete records of bills, receipts, and invoices to maintain accurate income and expenses for the year to come.
For businesses with significant cash inflows and outflows, accounting software can be very beneficial. Software such as QuickBooks can automatically log and categorize transactions to enable better financial organization. These programs integrate with banks and include invoicing and payment options that can be configured to your individual business needs.
CREATE A FUNCTIONAL CHART OF ACCOUNTS A clear chart of accounts is crucial for financial reporting. Compile a list of all income, expenses, assets and liability accounts that are used in your businessā financial transactions. Determine which items youād like to measure when reviewing your businessā performance. Having the chart of accounts set up properly is the basis of all your financial reports.
CLEAN UP ACCOUNTS RECEIVABLES Another great bookkeeping resolution is to review and stay on top of your business account receivables. Reviewing outstanding receivables will help you determine what can reasonably be collected and what may need to be written off. Having such information at the click of a button will help in the decision of whether you should be extending or denying credit on future transactions.
TRACK INVENTORY Having an accurate record of your inventory should be an ongoing effort to optimize business operations. Tracking inventory has the following benefits:
Determine which products sell best.
Being able to analyze seasonal patterns and trends to enable better decision-making.
Mitigate loss from fraud (you canāt know whatās missing if you donāt know what you have)
Eliminate old or obsolete inventory
PERFORM REGULAR BANK RECONCILIATIONS Ideally, bank reconciliations should be performed monthly or at least every quarter. A busy holiday season and staffing limitations can thwart even the best financial intentions. If scheduled bank reconciliations have been missed, now is the best time to catch up, perform a much-needed reconciliation of cash and credit account balances, and once completed, you can maintain healthy and accurate financial records going forward.
During the reconciliation process, look for errors and account for cash in-transit. Clean up any identified issues immediately to avoid further issues later with reporting.
CONDUCT AN INTERNAL FINANCIAL REVIEW With accurate financial bookkeeping in place, you can easily review financial reports such as the businessā income statement, balance sheet and statement of cash flows. The reporting will give you the critical information you need to understand where to better focus and how to increase the businessā profit margin.
DEDUCT EXPENSES CORRECTLY Before filing taxes, it is important to ensure that all expenses incurred in the process of running your business get deducted appropriately.
Keep track of items like cell phone usage, automobile expenses and home office allocations to determine what percentage was for business verses personal purposes.
Exceeding allowable deductions, whether intentionally or unintentionally, can increase the risk of a tax audit. It is recommended that you consult a professional financial expert on what deductions are permitted.
Wishing all the IMAGE readers, a Shanah Tovah, a happy and healthy personal and business new year to come.
Sandra Lazar graduated Brooklyn college in 1995. She has served as a CFO in a variety of businesses for the past 25 years.
IN A WORLD FILLED WITH TECHNOLOGICAL DISTRACTIONS AND FAST-PACED LIFESTYLES, THE EDWARD M. DWECK SUMMER BASEBALL LEAGUE STANDS AS A TESTAMENT TO THE ENDURING APPEAL OF OUR COMMUNITYāS DESIRE TO PLAY TOGETHER AND STAY TOGETHER.
Since its inception 10 years ago, this remarkable league, headed by Sports Directors Jon Entel, has been bringing excitement to young players from kindergarten through ninth grade every Sunday, celebrating baseball, sportsmanship and camaraderie. As it embarks on its tenth year, the league continues to flourish, welcoming 540 players across 54 teams.
A dedicated group of parent coaches and DSN staff have tirelessly worked to elevate the leagueās standards year after year. Entel acknowledges the rarity of an endeavor that consistently improves with time. āIt is rare in any industry or profession for a product to continue to get better year after year, and thatās what we have with the DSN Baseball League.ā In a world where attention to detail often makes the difference, the league stands as a shining example of how dedication, passion and commitment can create the greatest summer experience.
The Leagueās mission extends beyond mere competition; itās about fostering growth both as athletes and individuals. Each week, 14 different fields become competitive battlegrounds where young athletes learn not only the intricacies of the game, but also the values of sportsmanship. Itās not just about swinging bats and throwing pitches; itās about building character and forming lasting friendships.
The culmination of this summer-long journey is the highly anticipated World Series, which was held on August 20th. Teams vied for the championship title and the energy and enthusiasm on the field were palpable. As the curtain fell on another successful baseball season, the memories and friendships forged within the league endure. Itās not just about the scores earned; it is about the laughter and growth that happened on and off the field.
DSNās Executive Director Sammy Sitt reminisces, āJeffrey Ashear reached out to me in 2013 asking if DSN could put together a small league in the summer. I told him if he could recruit 40 players, consider it done. Within 24 hours he had all the players! Now, we have over 540 players from all parts of our community ā different schools, different shuls ā yet 1 baseball league. Bringing families together in a happy and exciting environment is what we do best. Thank you to Jon and our entire passionate staff for everything they do for DSN. Nobody does it better!ā
