LOSING MONEY IS A HUGE FEAR FOR MANY OF US, ESPECIALLY DURING OUR CURRENT MARKET. SO HOW CAN WE PLAN OUR BUSINESSES TO HAVE THE PROFITS WE NEED TO LEAD THE LIVES WE WANT TO LIVE?
After 25 years of working as a CFO in various businesses such as retail, wholesale, real estate acquisitions, property management, law firms and synagogues, Sandra Lazar opened Lazar Accounting Solutions to help businesses get a better grip on their income, track their expenses, and increase their profits.
WHO SHOULD HIRE LAZAR ACCOUNTING? Do you know the monthly expenses of your business and how much income you need to earn to cover those expenses? Are you satisfied with your profit margin? Would you like to earn more money than you are currently earning? At Lazar Accounting, we work remotely to set up a clear chart of accounts, track all of your businessâ income and expenses, categorize each transaction, and reconcile your bank and credit card accounts monthly. Once the books are organized, you will have the benefit of financial reporting that includes an income statement and a balance sheet. These reports are customized to your needs. The reports are also user friendly and contain the essential information needed to make critical business decisions and take your business to the next level. When it comes time to file your tax return, your books will be ready for filing. You then have the option of using your own CPA or hiring Lazar Accounting to file your taxes. This means no more headaches going back and forth with the accountant answering endless questions about transactions completed throughout the year!
COST SAVINGS AND EFFICIENCY Not only does outsourced bookkeeping take the burden off of you, it also results in a significant cost savings for your business. By opting not to hire a dedicated in-house bookkeeper, you eliminate the expenses associated with salaries, benefits, training, and infrastructure. Outsourcing allows you to pay for the services you need, making it a cost-effective option for many businesses.
WHEN SHOULD YOU HIRE A BOOKKEEPER? The earlier the better! When you are planning to open your business, you need to know your numbers. What will it cost to carry your business monthly? Rent, utilities, cost of goods, marketing, etc. How much income do you need to generate to cover these expenses? How much do you need to generate to achieve the profit youâre looking for? Lazar Accounting can effectively address these critical issues, whether youâre launching a new business or seeking increased profitability for you existing venture. Lazar Accounting will be right by your side throughout the course of running your business making sure you achieve your financial goals.
WHAT KINDS OF BUSINESSES DOES LAZAR ACCOUNTING WORK WITH? Every business can benefit from our financial services. Whether your business is a startup or a developed enterprise, you will realize a healthier, more profitable return when you achieve optimal financial control and have organized and clearly mapped out finances. WHY HIRE LAZAR ACCOUNTING? By choosing Sandra Lazar, your trusted community bookkeeper, you will benefit significantly, from cost savings and increased efficiency to enhanced accuracy and compliance. With accurate financial records, strategic insights, and more time to focus on your business, you will confidently drive your business forward and achieve long-term success.
OUR PROMISE TO YOU We will track revenue, manage expenses and help you understand your numbers better, so that you can profit more than ever. To learn more about Sandra Lazarâs services, and how outsourced bookkeeping can benefit your business, visit her website www.LazarAccounting.com. For inquiries, you can reach out to Sandra directly via email at Sandra@Lazaraccounting.com or by phone at 718-412-2004.
Sandra Lazar graduated Brooklyn college in 1995. She has served as a CFO in a variety of businesses for the past 25 years.
FOR THE SECOND CONSECUTIVE YEAR THE SCA BOOT CAMPUS RETREAT WAS A RESOUNDING SUCCESS! BRINGING TOGETHER 65 HIGH SCHOOL SENIORS TO HEAR FROM TOP NOTCH SPEAKERS ON SUBJECTS LIKE ISRAEL ADVOCACY, ANTISEMITISM ON CAMPUS, SOCIAL MEDIA LITERACY, NAVIGATING THE DISCOURSE ON CAMPUS AND SEPHARDIC HERITAGE AND PRIDE.
The students came together to explore new ideas and gain tools and connections to help prepare them for their time on campus and beyond. Throughout the program there was also plenty of time for the participants to have fun; from the high ropes course to evening zip-lining and all culminating in the custom made amazing race! Our roster of all star speakers and organizations were so impressed by the caliber of young adults on this retreat. Their intelligence and interest in the topics was evident throughout the program.
FEEDBACK FROM THOSE IN ATTENDANCE Every speaker at the retreat was better than the next. This program reinforced for me how lucky I am to have a community support system to keep me grounded and provide me with the resources and tools to succeed in life. Through Boot CampUs and other programs that the SCA offers the youth of our community, they are helping my peers and I understand the importance of having an identity â on an individual level, using our ties to our past to help us in the future, and collectively as a community, having the tools to make a difference in the world and to each other. Thank you to the SCA for providing me with such a special experience, and I look forward to joining you in future programming!
I had the best time at SCA Boot CampUs 23. This retreat was the perfect mix of learning and fun activities. SCA provided many speakers to educate us on antisemitism and how to combat this on college campuses. A few points that stuck with me are that Jews have rights and we must unite. Thank G-d Israel is our home. We support our home in the United States of America, which is a free country. As Jews, we have rights here, and we are protected by law if an issue arises on campus. As a student, you can always consult the head of your university because it is their job to make you feel safe. Next, we were advised to seek out fellow Jews on campus. This will give us a sense of unity and help us remember we are never alone. In addition, SCA opened this retreat to students from Magen David, Flatbush, and Hilell. My favorite part of the trip was meeting new people and making new friends from different schools. We made cherishable memories by singing around the campfire and competing in color war. As part of the Sephardic community, we are united on and off campus! Natali Hazkour, Magen David Yeshivah High School
SCA Boot CampUs was a very amazing experience. It was nice to not only meet kids my age from other schools, but to also learn a lot about the circumstances regarding antisemitism on college campuses. The speakers inspired us and informed us of the best ways to combat antisemitism. They also taught us the best strategies when responding to people with opposing views. The program built unity amongst us and helped to prepare us for college and beyond.â Hymie Gindi, Yeshivah of Flatbush High School
This spectacular event would not have taken place without the vision and leadership of Jeffrey J Beyda. Thank you to Shirley Catton, Richie Dweck, Irene Hanan, Yvette Hidary, Aaron Shasha, Julie Shrem and Rabbi Joey Soffer, for making this retreat the huge success that it was.
THE SENIOR STUDENTS OF MAGEN DAVID YESHIVAH HIGH SCHOOL WERE GIVEN A ONCE-IN-A-LIFETIME OPPORTUNITY THIS YEAR TO TAKE PART IN A UNIQUE SENIOR TRIP TO ISRAEL.
What made this trip so unique was that students had the privilege of delivering a Sefer Torah, which was donated by Jeff and Rachel Sutton in memory of Mr. Joseph Sutton AâH, to the Mishkan Shlomo Beit Kinneset in the Har Gilo Army Base. This was made possible with the help of Mr. Ezra Hanon and tons of student fundraising efforts. Mrs. Laura Miller, Director of Guidance at MDYHS and chaperone on this incredible trip, recalled, âTwo days after our high school graduation, Head of School, Dr. Daniel J. Vitow, emailed the students in the Class of 2023 the following message: âLast Shabbat in Yerushalayim. This Shabbat as graduates. Not bad! Love you all.â With this sentiment in mind, let us reflect on the transformative trip-of-a-lifetime our seniors (now our graduates!) had in Eretz Yisrael.â The boys and girls arrived on different planes and stayed in different hotels, but our entire grade was united as one while in Israel. Day one of this incredible journey to Israel began at Latrun, the Armored Corps Memorial Site which is steeped deeply in Israelâs military history. After touring Latrun, our students heard from Shir Peled, the IDFâs first-ever female undercover fighter in their counter-terrorism unit. A highlight of our first day in Israel was our âTeam Faudaâ experience, where our students engaged in various team-building experiences that simulated a day in the life of the Special Forces Unit of the IDF, including undercover agent training, target shooting practice and even Krav Maga. Our second day was jam-packed with history, adventure, a sunset cruise, and the magic of Israel. The seniors had learned about Israelâs greatest spy, Eli Cohen, before their trip, and retraced his very same footsteps by taking ATV rides along the Syrian border. They were also privileged to attend a briefing about the Northern Border at the Mt. Bental-Alma Research & Education Center. However, the highlight of the day was a beautiful dinner at Deckâs Restaurant in Tiveria, followed by an amazing boat ride on the Kinneret, where our boys and girls each took part in a festive chagigah while at sea. Our next day was just as exhilarating! From security briefings to a meaningful visit to Kibbutz Alumim, our students were not just visiting Israel, but truly experiencing Israel. By far, the most fascinating part of the third day in Israel was a visit to a Hamas terror training tunnel, where our students crawled underground to see first-hand a subterranean southern Gaza terror passage that â thankfully â an elite IDF unit uncovered.
Our fourth day was beyond special; our students went to Hadera and spent the day at the Dani Hi training center, where they engaged in IDF simulated training, including tactical and shooting range training, Krav Maga, and a lecture from Brigadier General Gal Hirsh. At Dani Hi, a special and unforgettable visit from Nadia Cohen, the widow of Mossad agent Eli Cohen, took place, where her story and message to our students was beyond powerful. Erev Shabbat our seniors got to experience downtown Yerushalayim, from shopping at the Machane Yehudah Market to the Mamilla Mall. The week culminated with our entire grade welcoming Shabbat at the Kotel, followed by a walk to Yeshivat Ahavat Shalom, where we were reunited with our Rosh Yeshivah Rabbi Eli Mansour for a special Shabbat dinner at the Yeshivah.
Shabbat morning our students returned to the Yeshivah to daven Shacharit, and then we had the distinct pleasure of meeting Holocaust Survivor Rena Quint in person, Shabbat afternoon. After a Zoom program the month before, it was a true honor to hear Mrs. Quintâs amazing and powerful story of survival. Every student was gifted her book, âA Daughter of Many Mothers: Her Horrific Childhood and Wonderful Life,â signed by Mrs. Quint and personally addressed to each student. A handful of students wanted to spend Shabbat afternoon with Mrs. Quint in her home, and took her up on her generous offer to continue to spend time with them. Motzei Shabbat our students played Laser Tag on the roof of Cinema City in Jerusalem, followed by pizza (even corn pizza).
Our second to last day was a day of hesed, where we had an unforgettable visit to Bet Elazrachi Orphanage, a home for children who have been removed from their homes due to abuse and/or neglect. What took place there was downright magical; our students truly connected with the children, and when it was time to go, many students kept hopping off the bus to give âtheir kidsâ more hugs. While the energy of the trip to the orphanage was beyond powerful, the highlight of our week in Israel was traveling to Mishkan Shlomo Beit Kneset in Har Gilo for the Hachnasat Sefer Torah dedication in memory of Mr. Joe Sutton AâH, at the IDF army base. Our students danced and rejoiced at this momentous event, a day that they will, no doubt, remember for years to come.
The palpable spiritual energy of this trip cannot be ignored. Each morning, a group of students chose to daven Netz at the Kotel before dawn. An unforgettable visit to Kever Rachel was another highlight, where our students had the unique opportunity to pray at this holy site. The last day of this incredible journey included a visit from Uzi Shaya, a former Mossad agent, who discussed his role as a recruiter into the Mossad. Students had a taste of recruitment strategies, and simulated exercises that actual Mossad agents utilize in their daily lives. With just hours until our scheduled departure out of Ben Gurion Airport, our students had the afternoon to enjoy a leisurely day in Jerusalem, savoring the sights, sounds and energy of this holy city.
We boarded our El Al flights back home, forever changed from this incredible trip with memories to last a lifetime. As Dr. Vitow noted, âThis was not just a regular trip. This was a growth experience for all of our students, a maturation experience, an experience of hesed, and of middot and of character, and all the things that we want for our children, that we wish for our children, that we work so hard to give our children, and we hope that we are successful at the end of the day. And I think that, judging from what Iâm seeing, we have been enormously successful on this trip with our ultimate goal of changing lives.
Mrs. Laura Miller is Director of College Guidance at MDYHS.
FINANCIAL FITNESS IS THE CORNERSTONE OF A SECURE AND STRESS-FREE LIFE. JUST AS PHYSICAL FITNESS IMPROVES OUR OVERALL HEALTH, BEING FINANCIALLY FIT EMPOWERS US TO MEET OUR GOALS, OVERCOME CHALLENGES, AND BUILD A STABLE FUTURE.
In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the key elements of financial fitness, from budgeting and saving to investing and retirement planning. By following these principles and adopting healthy financial habits, you can gain control over your finances and pave the way for a brighter financial future.
BUILDING A STRONG FOUNDATION Setting clear financial goals is the first step toward financial fitness. Whether itâs saving for a down payment on a home, paying off debts, or planning for retirement, identifying your objectives helps you align your financial decisions and actions accordingly. Creating a budget serves as a roadmap for your financial journey. It enables you to track income, expenses, and savings, ensuring that your spending aligns with your goals. By analyzing your expenses and making necessary adjustments, you can optimize your financial resources and avoid unnecessary debt. Managing debt can be a significant obstacle to financial fitness. Prioritize paying off high-interest debt, then develop strategies to reduce overall debt, and establish an emergency fund to avoid resorting to credit cards or loans during unexpected circumstances.
SAVING AND INVESTING Establishing an emergency fund is crucial to weathering unforeseen financial storms. Aim to save three to six monthsâ worth of living expenses to provide a safety net during emergencies or unexpected job loss. Save for your short-term and long-term goals by allocating funds into separate accounts to help you stay on track. Have one account for short-term goals like vacations, home repairs, or purchasing a vehicle, and separate accounts to prioritize long-term goals such as buying a home, education, or retirement. It will be easier to invest in appropriate vehicles like stocks or bonds when they are clearly marked.
Itâs important to understand risk and return. Educate yourself about different investment options, their associated risks, and potential returns. Diversify your investment portfolio to balance risk and reward, considering factors such as age, risk tolerance, and time horizon.
RETIREMENT PLANNING Start early and begin retirement savings as soon as possible. The power of compounding allows your investments to grow exponentially over time, giving you a head start on building a comfortable retirement nest egg. Maximizing Retirement Accounts contribute to retirement accounts like 401(k)s or IRAs, taking advantage of any employer matching programs. These accounts offer tax advantages and long-term growth potential, helping you accumulate funds for retirement. Healthcare and Long-term Care factor in healthcare costs and potential long-term care needs during retirement. Explore options such as health savings accounts (HSAs) and long-term care insurance to mitigate potential financial burdens.
CONTINUAL LEARNING AND ADAPTATION Stay informed on financial news, trends, and changes in policies that may impact your financial fitness. Continuous learning and awareness empower you to make informed decisions and adapt your strategies accordingly. Seeking professional advice, consulting with a financial advisor, can provide valuable guidance, especially for complex financial matters such as tax planning, investment diversification, and retirement strategies. A professional can help tailor your financial plan to your specific circumstances and goals.
Achieving financial fitness is a lifelong journey that requires discipline, knowledge, and adaptability. By building a strong foundation through goal setting, budgeting, and managing debt, you can establish a solid financial base. Through saving, investing wisely, and planning for retirement, you pave the way for a secure future. Continuous learning and seeking professional advice enable you to navigate the ever-changing financial landscape successfully. Remember, financial fitness is not just about accumulating wealth; itâs about achieving peace of mind, having control over your financial destiny, and enjoying a fulfilling life unburdened by monetary stress. Start your journey today and embrace the power of financial fitness!
Ari Baum, CFPÂŽ 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.
There is nothing more important than the education of our children. The Jersey Shore community has grown tremendously and the challenge of educating our children properly has grown with it. The schools do a great job setting up and implementing stellar curriculums and stimulating learning environments for the children. What happens when there are specific deficits or weaknesses in a child that impede his ability to succeed and to thrive? How can a school possibly meet the individual needs of each child? Bridge Linx is there as a partner to meet those needs. Many mainstream children have specific delays or deficits that challenge their ability to learn properly. Bridge Linx partners with the schools to help identify, evaluate and set up goals and a treatment plan with professional therapists to ensure the success of each student. Bridge Linx offers OT, PT, Speech and Language therapy as well as Social Behavior therapy. Our experienced professional therapists see the students in the school environment for optimal partnership and carry-over of skills. With the proper supports available, the schools can accommodate more students and know that they can give them whatâs needed to thrive. Following are examples of some of the goals therapy would cover.
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 give us a call at 732-493-3670.
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.
ON THE EVENING OF APRIL 25, FOUR THOUSAND YESHIVAH OF FLATBUSH PARENTS, STUDENTS, ALUMNI, STAFF AND COMMUNITY MEMBERS GATHERED AT THE CONEY ISLAND AMPHITHEATER FOR AN UNFORGETTABLE YOM HAâATZMAUT CELEBRATION FEATURING MORDECHAI SHAPIRO AND JOEY NEWCOMB.
Head of Elementary School Rabbi Yahel Tsaisi shared, âWhile our community consists of many different backgrounds and traditions, it is on this day that everyone gathers to commemorate, to pray, to celebrate and to show gratitude for the greatest gift Hashem has given us, âlike one person with one heart.ââ Upon entering the venue, guests were transported to the shuk in Jerusalem âMachane Flatbush,â which brought with it the smells and flavors of Israel. Popular Israeli snacks like bissli, Israeli gummy candy, prigot juice from Holon supermarket, ice pops from 32 F, and popular fare like pulled beef sandwiches, french fries and knishes from Prept by Ray T, were available throughout the night. YOF exclusive concert merchandise was also for sale so attendees could have a memento from the night. A meaningful Yom HaZikaron program opened the evening. All in attendance stood for a siren and moment of silence to honor all those who lost their lives defending our homeland. The Elementary School choir, led by Ricky Sasson, performed two beautiful Yom Hazikaron themed songs, âAna Hashemâ and âRise Up.â Rabbi Tsaidiâs opening remarks paid tribute to our Israeli soldiers.
Joel Braverman High School Head of School Rabbi Joseph Beyda led attendees in a powerful Tefillah Chagigit (holiday songs and prayers). Several high school and middle school students accompanied him on stage to enhance the tefillah. The JBHS choir and chamber choir, led by Mordy Weinstein, got the crowd excited for the rest of the evening with their renditions of âYerushalayimâ and âLashuv Habaitaâ. Special guest Joey Newcomb had families jumping out of their seats and singing along to popular favorite, âThank You, Hashem.â
Next, was the moment everyone was waiting for, Mordechai Shapiroâs grand entrance. From the moment he set foot on stage, guests were on their feet, singing along to favorites like âBâyachadâ and âAni Yehudi.â A sea of Israeli and YOF flags and YOF thundersticks filled the crowd.
A spectacular light show featured intricate and synchronized lighting effects that perfectly complemented Mordechaiâs energetic performance, creating an immersive experience for the audience. As a special surprise, the Flatbush Elementary School Chamber Choir, led by Eric Stern, took the stage to perform with Mordechai Shapiro. The evening ended in true YOF fashion when JBHS Dean of Students Rabbi Naftali Besser joined Mordechai on stage for âHatikvah.â Hearing the voices of thousands of Flatbush family members united in the National Anthem of our homeland was a beautiful moment to behold.
âIâm so proud to be a part of a yeshivah community, which demonstrates its support for Medinat Yisrael in such an inspiring way. Love for Israel, achdut, gratitude to Hashem and togetherness pervaded every moment of the program,â added Rabbi Beyda. The evening was a truly memorable 75th birthday celebration for Eretz Yisrael. YOF is indebted to the thousands of guests who came to the event to show their support. Extra thanks go out to Special Events Coordinator Hana Hasson and Events Associate Esther Chehova for all of the effort they put into making sure this spectacular evening was a success. The Yom Haâatzmaut celebration is dedicated by the Mamiye Family.
RABBIS, COMMUNITY LEADERS AND 700 PEOPLE ENJOYED A BEAUTIFUL AND INSPIRING EVENING IN HONOR OF COMMUNITY IDF VETERANS AND THE 75TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE STATE OF ISRAEL.
On April 25th, DSN hosted an unforgettable family event to celebrate a monumental day in the history of the Jewish nation. The crowd filled the DSN gymnasium with an electric atmosphere. It was an exceptional night that will be remembered for years to come. Teenagers Shula Abadi and Abraham Tobias were the Masters of Ceremonies, the perfect fit for a family event. The evening began with inspiring and holy words from Rabbi David Tawil of the Larchwood Synagogue. Then, 12 former IDF soldiers, men and women from our community, were recognized in-person. An emotional video showcased interviews with, and pictures of, the soldiers during their years in the army. Next, the Larchwood choir was introduced. Led by Chazan Abie Betesh, the impressive group gave special performances, singing Israeli songs, beautifully and melodically, adding to the meaningfulness of the night. Finally, the main attraction came to the stage, Itzik Dadya and his band. His performance was an epic, magical and emotional way to celebrate Israel. The lighting effects were sensational, including a large blue Jewish star as the backdrop to the stage. Audience members were waving their flags, singing along, and smiling from ear to ear.
Children received glow sticks, and everyone, both adults and children, received gorgeous custom t-shirts, donated by Leon Sakkal. The unique shirts were emblazoned with a historic 75th anniversary Israeli logo.
Zoe Benun, a community member who met her husband while they both served in the army, was touched. She was a combat scuba diver in the Navy and her husband was in the counter-terrorism unit. Zoe said, âThe video, honoring past soldiers and the singing was very emotional and beautiful. That night I felt especially lucky to have Deal, NJ as my home away from home.â
The success of the event was due to the dedication and hard work of volunteers Jacqueline Musry and Honey Dayan, along with the help of Frieda Shamah, DSNâs Youth Program Director, and DSNâs Facilities Director David Belhassen. Honey expressed her gratitude. âDSN made this dream a reality. We once again gave the community a night to remember!â Frieda enjoyed every moment. âI loved seeing all the children dancing, pumped up and celebrating Israel. You can tell the level of fun and importance because the community poured through our doors in droves. This is what it is all about!â
DSNâs President Lee Zekaria expressed his gratitude and admiration for the event. âI didnât think last yearâs Yom HaâAtzmaut event could be topped, but somehow our team found a way. The opening ceremony was another level, as were the choirs, the soldier video, the kids crushing it as MCs, and Itzik â they were all incredible! Thanks to the whole DSN team, absolutely nothing happens without each one of you! Thereâs nothing like seeing the community come out and have a night like that. G-d willing there will be many, many more!â
WHAT ARE TRUFFLES? WHAT DO THEY TASTE LIKE AND WHAT CAN YOU USE THEM ON? ASK 10 PEOPLE WHAT A TRUFFLE IS AND NINE OF THEM WONâT KNOW THE ANSWER. THE ANSWERS YOU WILL GET ARE: âTHEY ARE FRENCH. THEY ARE LIKE MUSHROOMS. THEY ARE VERY EXPENSIVE AND FOR FANCY MEALS. THEY NEED DOGS TO FIND THEM.â SOME OF THIS IS CORRECT, BUT MOST IS NOT.
Today you find truffle oil in many stores, in many restaurants and in many kitchens. Itâs time for everyone to know what truffles are.
ALL ABOUT TRUFFLES Truffles are edible spores that grow underground on a fungus, at or near the base of trees. They are similar to mushrooms, like a cousin, but mushrooms grow above ground and truffles grow in the ground around the roots of poplar, beech, and oak trees in damp areas.
Truffles donât look like the typical capped mushrooms called boletus fungi. In fact, they look more like odd little potatoes when you first see them. Donât let their appearance fool you â these natural wonders are packed with incredible flavor!
Real truffles are rare, but once youâve had the chance to sample them, youâll never forget the experience. From their unique taste to their seasonality, they are a truly unique culinary experience. These edible fungi are one of the most sought-after foods in the world. Truffles have a distinct earthy and mushroom-like flavor and smell, but itâs a much more intense flavor than youâd get from your average mushroom. Some people compare trufflesâ taste to the forest floor in the summertime when everything is green and fresh after a cooling rain. Many say that they taste earthy, musky, floral and exotic. Others say that truffles have a savory, meaty taste with hints of nuttiness or brininess â almost like a really good green olive. Truffles can be found in most countries, but they are prevalent in France and Italy. One of the most common types of truffle is the alba or white truffle, the black truffle is the other. These delicious truffles that grow in Italy, France, and Spain can cost up to $2,300 per pound! While truffles may seem outrageously expensive and certainly are a luxury, there is good reason. Truffle cultivation is part science, part art, and part treasure hunt. One canât simply grow truffles in the backyard. In fact, a truffle orchard can take around a decade before truffles are ready. And when they are, a trained dog or pig is needed to sniff out the ripe truffles. Then, they need to be quickly shipped to a restaurant or store before spoiling, which happens in about 10 days. Truffles are acquired in many ways, ranging from truffle farms to truffle hunters. Truffle hunting is a seasonal activity that usually takes place from September to November. Truffle hunting in the wild is aided by all kinds of animals, including dogs, pigs, pigeons, rats, badgers, moles, horses, rabbits, and raccoons. In fact, you can even purchase truffle-hunting kits for dogs online. The flavor of the truffles can vary depending on which variety you choose. Each variety has its own unique flavor depending on ripeness, soil, topography, and climate, a bit like wine. Among the many varieties are:
White truffles
Black truffles
Summer truffles
Burgundy truffles
PĂŠrigord truffles
French black While there are different varieties of truffles, only some are considered edible for humans. Many wild, non-commercial varieties are toxic.
BLACK TRUFFLES Black truffles are the most common truffles. They taste earthy, musky, sweet, oaky, and nutty. Use just a little warmth to bring out the flavor. Pair with deep red wines such as an Italian Barolo or French Bordeaux.
WHITE TRUFFLES White truffles also taste earthy, pungent, and musky, but are a bit spicier and more intense with notes of garlic. They pair nicely with spring vegetables and greens and with white wines such as Pinot Grigio or Chardonnay.
FOODS THAT GO WELL WITH TRUFFLES This dynamic flavor goes with everything from pasta dishes to fried chicken wings. Its fresh, savory, and earthy flavor is used as a finishing touch and itâs a crucial ingredient that people seem not to be able to get enough of. In addition to being a luxury food, truffles can be used to flavor other foods. Truffle oil is a prime example of a versatile use for truffles. Truffle oil is a truffle-infused olive oil with a robust aroma. Itâs a simple way to add an expensive flair to homemade food, like ordering truffle fries at your favorite restaurant.
TRUFFLE OIL AND SALT For many, truffle oil is the first and possibly only experience theyâve had with this ingredient. It does provide a delicious flavor to many dishes and is less expensive and easier to find, as is truffle salt. Unfortunately, itâs often not a true truffle experience. You see, most commercially available truffle oils are not made with truffles at all, as the product would not be shelf-stable or flavorful enough. Instead, they are made with olive oil and a synthetic truffle flavoring, often 2,4-dithiapentane, the primary flavor compound in real truffles. There are some truffle oils and salts that are in fact made with real truffles, and they both have a place in the kitchen. De La Rosa Real Foods Truffle products are made with real truffle extracts.
The top of the line is De La Rosaâs Organic White Truffle Oil which includes an actual piece of truffle in every bottle. The truffle mixed with top quality organic extra virgin olive oil is unsurpassed. The taste is full of truffle flavor and smell and full of earthy and spicy tones. De La Rosa White Truffle Extra Virgin Olive Oil is made with first cold pressed extra virgin olive oil that has been infused with the highest quality white truffle extract. Use De La Rosa White Truffle Oil when you are looking for earthy, spicy tones with a hint of garlic. De La Rosa Black Truffle Extra Virgin Olive Oil is made with first cold pressed extra virgin olive oil that has been infused with the highest quality black truffle extract. With a more intense earthy taste and aroma, a hint of nuttiness and a gentle olive oil finish, this delectable black truffle oil is the perfect finishing oil for any dish. Although the uses are endless, De La Rosa recommends using any of these premium truffle oils as a bread garnish and as a drizzling over pasta, pizza, risotto, soup, vinaigrettes, roasted vegetables, hummus, grilled meats and fish. And a little can go a long way. Other products that incorporate truffles can include truffle salt. De La Rosa Truffle Salt comes from the 1,000 year old salt springs of Volterra. It provides a rich and sophisticated flavor that pairs well with most herbs and spices, and makes any meal gourmet. Sprinkle truffle salt over meats, pasta, risotto, potatoes and your favorite salads. You can even flavor ice cream at home with black or white truffle oil and use truffle oil or salt in your pasta sauces. These sauces tend to have an intense flavor that pairs well with red meats like beef.
You can even drizzle a little truffle oil on your popcorn for a super simple truffle add-in. Up the flavor of this savory snack at home by combining white peppercorns and fresh thyme leaves with your oil before drizzling over lightly salted kernels. Many food lovers use truffle oils and salts as a garnish on various French and Italian foods like risotto, salads, and pasta. The umami flavor that comes with truffle oil ensures that every dish they are added to will almost magically taste better.
EMBRACE THE TRUFFLE
SUMMER SALAD WITH SWEET TANGY & EARTHY WHITE BALSAMIC & TRUFFLE DRESSING
Ingredients
Mixed young salad greens
5 tablespoons De La Rosa Extra Virgin Olive Oil
2 tablespoons De La Rosa White Truffle Oil or Black Truffle Oil
2 tablespoons De La Rosa White Balsamic Glaze (adjust glaze to taste)
3 tablespoons De La Rosa White Wine Vinegar
Mozzarella (as much or as little as you like)
Pinch of De La Rosa Truffle Salt
Directions Wash, drain and dry salad greens. In a small bowl whisk together all the ingredients to make a uniform dressing. Store in the fridge. Rip mozzarella into small chunks and add it to the salad, drizzle and mix in the dressing. Add salt to taste. Enjoy.
Leek, Potato & Hazelnut Soup With Truffle Oil
Ingredients
1½ tablespoons butter
1 large leek, chopped
3 cups chopped potato
4 cups vegetable stock
1 teaspoon thyme leaves (dry) or 1 tablespoon fresh
1 teaspoon salt and freshly ground pepper
½ cup toasted and peeled hazelnuts
De La Rosa White Truffle Oil, to drizzle
Directions Melt the butter in a large pot. Add the leek and potato, then cover and cook slowly until the leeks have softened. Add the stock, thyme, salt and pepper, and bring to a simmer for 15 minutes. Remove and cool for 10 minutes before pureeing until smooth. Serve steaming hot with a sprinkle of toasted hazelnuts, a drizzle of truffle oil and buttered toast.
Pan-Seared Salmon with Black Truffle Oil
Ingredients
4 6-ounce skinless salmon filets
2 tablespoons De La Rosa Black Truffle Oil
Seasoning salt and black pepper
1 tablespoon De La Rosa Avocado oil or Grapeseed Oil
Directions Sprinkle the salmon on both sides ½ teaspoon seasoning salt, and Ÿ teaspoon black pepper. Heat the avocado oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Place the salmon filets in the skillet; cook until browned and the fish flakes easily with a fork, 3½ minutes per side. Drizzle truffle oil over the filets and serve.
If you have any questions or inquiries about De La Rosa truffle products or have interest in organic oils, vinegars, grape juice or award winning wines please contact De La Rosa via email at info@delarosa613.com, visit our website, www.delarosa613.com or call us at De La Rosa 718-333-0333.
BEâER HAGOLAH INSTITUTES (BHI) IS THRILLED TO ANNOUNCE A MAJOR DEVELOPMENT IN THE ACADEMIC STRUCTURE OF ITS BOYSâ DEPARTMENT. BEGINNING WITH THE 2023-2024 SCHOOL YEAR, THE BOYSâ MIDDLE SCHOOL AND HIGH SCHOOL WILL BE DIVIDED INTO TWO DISTINCT DIVISIONS, JUDAIC STUDIES AND SECULAR STUDIES, AND WILL UNDERGO AN EXPANSION OF ITS LEADERSHIP TEAM.
For the last ten years, the entire boysâ department had been led by the well-known educator Rabbi Mordechai Fishman. Since taking the helm in 2013, Rabbi Fishman has expertly shepherded the department to great heights. Now, Rabbi Fishman has decided to accept a position as Head of School in a yeshivah in Staten Island. BHI will miss him and wishes him success in everything he does. The new Judaic Studies Principal will be Rabbi Michoel Grunhut. Rabbi Grunhut comes to the new position with nine years of experience as a beloved rebbi in Beâer Hagolah. In addition, for the last three years, he has served as the Beâer Hagolah alumni coordinator. He has demonstrated tremendous talent in guiding his students through a successful transition from their high school years into college and professional life.
Rabbi Grunhutâs students know him as a caring, loving and warm rebbi who gives them direction and discipline in a way that they appreciate â even as teenagers. His understanding and empathy, provide them with an opportunity to discover themselves and grow as Jews, while deciding on careers and reaching their goals successfully. The new Secular Studies principal will be Rabbi Yehuda Waxman, originally of Great Britain. Rabbi Waxman has a Masters Degree in Education and was previously the principal in the prestigious King David School in the United Kingdom. He brings along his twenty-five years of experience as an educator and administrator, having written and built curricula which he implemented successfully on many academic levels.
Rabbi Mordechai German, the Dean of Beâer Hagolah said that this development marks the beginning of a new era in the academic growth of Beâer Hagolah. âWith the creation of separate Judaic and Secular Studies departments we are poised to increase our expertise and focus on every level. Our goal as a school is to prepare each student for a life of excellence both as a Jew and a professional. Our dedicated administration will bring their strong work ethic to continue building a system which helps each and every student thrive. Through innovation, expertise, and curriculum tracking, coupled with their warmth and dedication, our students will graduate college-ready from Beâer Hagolah while enthusiastically committed to lifelong growth as a Jew. Board Member, Mr. Edward Farbenblum, said, âwe are grateful for the consistent growth of Beâer Hagolah these last eight years. It is due to our confidence in Rabbi Mordechai German and the staff working under him, and we are sure we can look forward to continuous growth. Rabbi Germanâs more than twenty-years experience with a focus on educating high school age boys, his expertise and leadership, his intellect, warmth, hard work and optimism will carry our beloved Beâer Hagolah to new heights.â
ON THE EVENING OF MAY 9TH, THE SBH BUILDING AT 425 KINGS HIGHWAY WAS BUZZING WITH EXCITED CHATTER. OVER 100 THERAPISTS AND RELATED SERVICE PROVIDERS (DEVELOPMENTAL, CORRECTIVE, AND OTHER SUPPORTIVE PROVIDERS WHO ASSIST CHILDREN WITH LEARNING CHALLENGES) MET FOR THE FIRST EVER NETWORKING EVENT.
Physical therapists, speech and language pathologists, occupational therapists and special education (SETSS, P3, and SEIT) providers had the opportunity to meet each other, socialize and network with each other. The therapists come from a diverse working background and service different schools, different ages, different agencies, or work privately. As such, the opportunity to get together to share common interests, strategies and ideas was nonexistent. For the first time ever, SBH SEARCH brought these professionals together! SBH SEARCH works tirelessly to help parents of students in our communityâs schools navigate the process of obtaining evaluations and services from the NYC Board of Education. The team meets with parents to explain evaluation results so that parents can better understand their childâs struggles and needs. The SEARCH team then prepares the parents for their IEP meeting with the Board of Education, and will even advocate for necessary services at the meeting! Naturally, it makes sense that SEARCH would also then help parents identify the appropriate therapists to suit their childâs individual needs.
The networking event not only gave therapists an opportunity to get together for much needed community building, but it allowed for SEARCH to begin compiling a database of the amazing professionals that service our children. If you are a parent in search of a therapist, or a therapist in search of another professional with a specific specialty to better help a client, call SEARCH at 718-787-1100 x 304. Theyâll make the introduction. If you are a service provider who works with children in our community, we would love to have you as part of all future networking events and opportunities. To join our database, please go to bit.ly/sbhprovidernetwork. To join our broadcast only WhatsApp group for case opportunities and notifications of future networking events please go to bit.ly/sbhproviderwhatsapp.
Barabra Sutton is the chair of the SBH SEARCH program.
COMMUNITY CYCLISTS TRANSFORM THE LIVES OF ISRAELI AMPUTEES
DAVID FARHI
CYCLING WAS NEVER SOMETHING THAT I HAD A PARTICULAR INTEREST IN. I GREW UP IN DEAL, NJ AND THOUGH MY NEIGHBORS WERE ALL AVID CYCLISTS, IT JUST WASNâT SOMETHING THAT SPOKE TO ME. FOUR YEARS AGO, I GOT A CALL FROM SAM WALDMAN, THE HEAD OF AN ORGANIZATION CALLED THE NEXT STEP (TNS). HE ASKED ME TO COME TO DUBAI TOGETHER WITH MY MUSIC GROUP TO PROVIDE A BEAUTIFUL SHABBAT EXPERIENCE FOR THE RIDERS OF âTHE NEXT RIDE.â I HAD NO IDEA WHAT I WAS IN FOR, BUT SAM SEEMED LIKE A NICE GUY SO I SAID IâM IN.
That Shabbat in Dubai was one of the most incredible experiences of my life, not because it was Dubai, but because I had the opportunity to meet and interact with some of the most incredible human beings Iâd ever met. We sang for hours and hours together. The Next Ride (TNR) is a 7 day cycling experience designed to provide a sense of camaraderie between Israeli amputees and US cyclists who make everything that TNS does possible. US cyclists raise much needed funds and ride together with their beneficiaries. What makes it so special is that we get to spend 7 days riding together, learning from, and being inspired by 30+ Israeli amputees.
Even though I was thousands of miles away from home, with people I had just met, I knew so many people from our community that devoted themselves to this incredible organization â Elliot Simhon, Zaki Salame, Joe Mansour, Jack Aini, just to name a few. The TNR experience embodied a sense of home, as hundreds of individuals united in their commitment to profoundly enhance the lives of our Israeli family coping with limb loss. Years later, Iâm still involved in the organization and have quadrupled my efforts. I recently flew down to the TNS partner facility in Orlando to spend time with some of the amputees brought in to get fitted and trained in the use of high end prosthetic devices.
The gym they were training in had college and pro-athletes training alongside just to create an environment of high intensity physical activity. It was remarkable to observe the process of learning to walk again as an adult and to see the incredible emotion felt as amputees took their first steps since they lost their leg/legs. Sometimes in life you find a cause that you never thought would be something that was relevant. You never think itâs something that would inspire you, itâs not even on your radar. Once you experience it however, it will forever change your life. Iâm so grateful for the opportunity to be involved in such an incredible mission and to put my energy into such a beautiful cause. Working with Stephen Shamosh, Morris Beyda, Ari Baum and Steven Matsas, all dedicated members of our community involved in The Next Step, to help our Israeli brothers and sisters is something I truly cherish.
The SY cycling team on TNR has grown to almost 30 riders strong. We have raised millions of dollars and have been directly responsible for impacting the lives of thousands of people in Israel struggling with limb loss. Prosthetics, services, community, advocacy â weâve done so much and Iâm so proud. I look forward to a successful ride together this November and encourage you to learn more about the incredible work that The Next Step is doing. It is truly remarkable.
David Farhi, son of Rabbi Isaac Farhi from Deal, has been involved in The Next Step/The Next Ride for the past three years. Through his and the communityâs involvement, the organization has succeeded in empowering hundreds of Israeli amputees to lead active and fulfilling lives post limb loss.
AN INTERVIEW WITH RABBI ELAN SEGELMAN, RABBINICAL DIRECTOR OF PUAH USA
MACHON PUAH WAS FOUNDED IN ISRAEL IN THE LATE 1970S BY RAV MENACHEM BURSTEIN, AT THE BEHEST OF RAV MORDECHAI ELIYAHU ZTâL. WITH THE NEW SCIENTIFIC BREAKTHROUGHS IN FERTILITY, RAV ELIYAHU UNDERSTOOD THAT THE FRUM WORLD WOULD NEED GUIDANCE NAVIGATING THE HALACHIC ASPECTS OF THIS MIRACULOUS NEW TECHNOLOGY.
Whatâs the difference between PUAH and other fertility organizations? We are the only organization that services the entire spectrum of the orthodox Jewish community. We help singles, we help with primary and secondary infertility and we help couples who need third party reproduction. PUAH is a âone-stop shopâ that provides the gamut of fertility services: financial assistance, medical guidance, halachic guidance, and emotional support.
Why would a couple reach out to PUAH and not go to their doctor first? Good question! Firstly, they may feel overwhelmed and not even know where to begin. PUAHâs expert counselor can help them navigate the complex journey. Secondly, PUAH approaches fertility from a more holistic perspective, taking into account both the medical and halachic aspects. In the medical realm, all doctors have their own specific way of practicing and we encourage getting second opinions if the couple feels they arenât progressing. Lastly, doctors may not take the time to explain to a couple why theyâre advising a specific treatment. We give our couples the understanding and support they need to appreciate what their doctor wants to accomplish.
Does PUAH provide emotional support and community to these families? Yes. Our PUAH Cares team is composed of therapists, social workers, kallah teachers â people who understand the couplesâ emotional journey and can provide them with a hand to hold and a shoulder to cry on. This service is critical to the couplesâ ultimate success.
What does PUAH do to raise community awareness about infertility? How does your upcoming campaign on June 11-12 fit into this picture? Fertility education and awareness is a big part of our mission. Whether itâs through ads, articles, social media postings, webinars, community events, or classes; we aim to discuss all areas of the fertility struggle in an open manner, to break the stigma. Our upcoming campaign is a part of this goal. By sharing the campaign website, not only are you raising money to ensure we can continue helping couples have the babies they dream of, but youâre also helping to spread awareness. Donate at www.thewaitoftheworld.org.
The announcement rang out, âIn first place, from Ilan High School, Penina Crystal!â The crowd erupted as Ilanâs very own Penina Crystal was crowned Tanach Queen, taking home first place at this yearâs Chidon Hatanach Competition.
The Chidon is an international program that was originally founded by David Ben Gurion in 1958, coinciding with the 10th anniversary of the establishment of the State of Israel. After independently studying, (sleeping, eating and almost breathing Tanach for months on end) boys and girls are tested on various Biblical stories in several different books of Tanach, including Sefer Shemot, Melachim II, Trei Asar and Megillat Esther. Over 80 schools nationwide, including community schools Yeshivah of Flatbush, Ramaz and Yeshivat Frisch among others, offered their students the opportunity to take the three tests that are administered over the course of the year, with the top scorers of these tests continuing on to compete in the Chidon Nationals in New York this April. Persistent, passionate, and proficient are all adjectives that aptly describe Penina Crystal, sophomore at Ilan and a native of Highland Park, New Jersey. From a young age, she developed a taste for Tanach and later displayed a penchant for Tanach studies. Her family has always displayed a love of Tanach studies and Penina attributes much of this to her grandfather, Dr. Richard C. Steiner. A professor at Yeshiva University, Steiner has written prolifically on topics in Tanach, specifically about how events in Tanach have historical authenticity. Growing up, family get-togethers were always sprinkled with Tanach challenges, where her grandfather would award prizes to the grandchild who solved a Tanach riddle or identified an elusive phrase in Torah. Her parents, too, fostered their familyâs fluency in Tanach, and encouraged their children to study the weekly Torah portion with Rashiâs commentary. Many members of her extended family are Tanach scholars, and the younger generation is following suit.
As a freshman and newbie to the Chidon, Penina began her journey by âgetting her feet wet,â so to speak. Though she had uncles who had competed in the Chidon as well as a cousin in middle school who had registered for the tournament, she didnât have much experience as to what to expect on tests, and in general, took a more laid back approach to her studying. She studied prior to each test, covering the necessary material, but did not have a set schedule of studying or an organized way to ensure that her goals would be met. So though she had spent countless hours poring over the texts, she â and her family â were more than pleasantly surprised when she qualified for the Nationals, and ultimately took home the third place award last May. With her eyes on the prize, this year, Penina upped her game. Seeing her dedication towards her journey and her desire to achieve even greater success, Ilan High School supported her quest and hired Rabbi Ezra Frazer to coach Penina in her Tanach studies. Rabbi Frazer is both a Chidon coach and former competitor who, like Penina, won the US Chidon as a 10th grader and went to Israel for the International Chidon in 11th grade. He eventually went on to coordinate the US Chidon from 2009-2016. Interestingly enough, when Rabbi Frazer was a student in YU, he studied Biblical Hebrew and Aramaic under Peninaâs grandfather, Dr. Steiner. Though he initially planned on concluding his schooling after completing his MA, it was Dr. Steiner who encouraged him to follow his dream and pursue his PhD. When approached by Ilan, Frazer felt that the time was right for him to reciprocate and enable Penina to pursue her dream as well. Beginning last summer, she began to study the syllabus in earnest. Determined and disciplined, she utilized every day, but mostly Shabbat and holidays, to cover the necessary ground to accomplish the goals she had set for herself. Rabbi Frazer asserted that, âPenina was incredibly motivated, and her consistent hard work was the primary reason that she won. I worked with her on developing a study schedule. We would meet every two weeks for me to check her progress, but she routinely mastered a couple of extra chapters above and beyond what Iâd assigned her.â Penina admits that it was much easier this time around as she had more experience with the Chidon format, as well as the importance of studying everything, even the seemingly irrelevant details, as one never knows exactly what obscure Passuk can come up on the test. After preparing so well, she sat confidently through each test, circling the correct answers with the confidence of someone who knows her stuff. On her first two tests, Penina scored a perfect 30/30. Incredibly enough, when her score was less than perfect on the third and final test, she respectfully suggested that it was the answer key that contained an error, not her response, and she was right! It was no surprise then that Ilanâs faculty advisor received an email from Rabbi Dovi Nadel, coordinator of the American Chidon HaTanach, noting that âPenina had the highest score in the entire country. She was the only perfect score this year!â
And then it is game time, where Peninaâs encyclopedic knowledge coupled with a deep-seated love for Torah, would catapult her to stardom. The day was intense, but she remained poised and positive. Buoyed by the encouragement of family and friends supporting her in person and virtually, Penina kept at it and then, we breathed a sigh of relief as her name was called out as one of the seven national finalists in her division. After a nail-biting final test, the dust settled, and the award announcements were made. Bottom up, from seventh place to first, we sat at the edge of our seats, until only one name remained uncalled. âYou know what that means,â thundered Rabbi Nadel, âIn first place, from Ilan High School, Penina Crystal.â We had our winner! Amidst deafening applause, Penina, smiling from ear to ear, almost floated to the podium to accept her award, her goal accomplished! More amazing than her results, though, was Peninaâs attitude on her journey from tests to trophy. Refined and unassuming, Penina earned the respect of her teachers and peers alike, and she is so grateful for Ilanâs support throughout. Peninaâs takeaway is signature Ilan. She says, âStudy hard, work hard and play hard, and whether you win or lose, know that everything that youâve learned will stay with you forever.â And indeed, it is this motto that has pushed our girls this year to be champions across the spectrum of competitions; from Basketball Champions to bringing home awards for Torah Bowl, Rikudiah and an as yet undefeated softball season, our girls work hard to play hard and with Ilan always rooting for them, they continue to make us proud!
