FOR THE PAST 24 YEARS, BARKAI YESHIVAH HAS BEEN A CENTER OF ACADEMIC EXCELLENCE, BUILDING THE UNIQUE POTENTIAL OF EACH STUDENT TO VIEW THE ENTIRETY OF THE WORLD THROUGH THE FRAMEWORK OF THE TORAH.

The journey will officially continue with the opening of Barkai Yeshivah High School in September 2023. What makes Barkai Yeshivah unique is the educational experience in which its students live what they learn.

Our Sephardic heritage is instilled in our students through minhagim that are practiced, pizmonim that are sung and meaningful tefillot that are recited in the proper and relevant maqam each morning. The 39 Melakhot forbidden on Shabbat are practiced in the classroom and the school garden with wheat, berries and other resources. The Hebrew language might be taught in the classroom through books and exercises, but it surpasses the text and permeates conversations held throughout the building. History is more than a subject. Students take an active role in their studies by bringing them to life with an original play written, produced, and performed by the students themselves. This integrative approach provides them with the tools and skills to view the world from a distinct perspective.

At Barkai we teach the whole child, developing students who are nuanced, self-aware, emotionally confident, critical thinkers and have a very strong sense of identity. Every curricular decision, logistical move, and activity is thoughtfully planned to remind our students what it means to be a compassionate, respectful and dignified person. Our children recognize that their choices in all aspects of life matter.

“We are not teaching content. We are teaching people,” Head of School Rabbi Richard Tobias commented at a recent school event. The approach to education in Barkai Yeshivah High School will be dynamic, to remain in line with the needs of teenagers as they grow into adulthood. Our high schoolers will receive this experience creating young men and women who are creative, compassionate, curious and committed. They will be grounded in tradition, dedicated to Torah and mitzvot, college bound, career ready and ever adapting for the 21st century.

With all the inquiries we have been receiving, we are proud to announce our Open House event. To learn more about what the high school will be offering and what makes us unique, join us on Wednesday, November 30th at 7:30 PM at Congregation Beth Torah. You can register for the open house @barkaihs or by visiting our website at Barkaihs.org.

ON SEPTEMBER 20TH ESHELNY HELD ITS KICKOFF EVENT AT THE AVENUE N JEWISH CENTER. OVER 40 COLLEGE AGE STUDENTS AND YOUNG MOTHERS CAME TOGETHER TO HELP CREATE A NEW COMMUNITY OF LEARNERS. ALICIA MATSAS, DIRECTOR OF ESHELNY INTRODUCED THE VISION OF ESHELNY AS A PLACE FOR YOUNG WOMEN OF THE COMMUNITY TO CONTINUE THEIR LEARNING AND GROWTH.

In keeping with the mission of Midreshet Eshel seminary in Jerusalem to combine personal and spiritual growth, the evening consisted of dinner, a presentation by alumni of Midreshet Eshel who serve as advisors to the younger generation of students, followed by a high level class given by Rabbi Richard Tobias on Yamim Noraim: Living With Uncertainty.

“The program is designed to afford college age students and young adult women the opportunity to come together to learn, to grow, to be the best version of themselves as Jews and as people,” explained Miriam Tawil, Director of Midreshet Eshel in Israel. While many of the participants had spent time studying in Israel other participants had not.

“This program is designed to give young adult women free access to a warm environment of like-minded, growth oriented girls who can learn and foster their relationship with Hashem together, even outside of Israel.” said Alicia Matsas. One role model or advisor was Gitta Matalon, alumna of Midreshet Eshel 2015, and now a young mother of three. “EshelNY brings the ruach of seminary back home. There are classes every week by amazing teachers, mentors for guidance, and best of all—alongside them, a community of learners.”

Audrey Sutton, 2020 alumna noted the following, “I believe EshelNY will help to unite former Eshel students with community members who attended other seminaries, or no seminary at all, and form a community of women who want somewhere to strengthen their Torah knowledge.” Bonnie Melamed who did not attend a seminary program in Israel observed, “something special about this program is that it provides us with access to advisors who have gone through a similar process in maintaining a relationship with Hashem after high school or their year in Israel.”

Sarah Mizrahi recalls the following, “Although I did not personally go to Midreshet Eshel for a gap year post high school in Israel, I am still a part of Eshel NY. This newly established program welcomed me with open arms despite me being an ‘outsider.’ Whether you went to a different Midrasha or did not even go to Israel at all, EshelNY can help you find—and support you on—your personal spiritual journey.”

“EshelNY is the perfect environment for young adult women in the community to continue to instill Torah learning in their everyday lives and inspire them to continue on their spiritual journeys,” explained Marlene Levy, Advisor and Midreshet Eshel alumna 2017, and recent graduate of Stern, YU. Vicky Zeitounie Eshel Alumna 2019 described how EshelNY offers a type of learning that one can’t get anywhere else. “It’s an unbelievable program that not only offers incredible classes with handpicked teachers, but also connects everyone with a mentor to build a connection that will last a lifetime.”

The Fall Semester of EshelNY is offering weekly classes on Tuesday nights at 7:15 P.M., at the Avenue N Congregation, located at 321 Avenue N. The classes are based on two themes: Growth through Parashah taught by Rabbi Richard Tobias and Character Development taught by Mrs. Rachelle Tawil and Mrs. Victoria Chabot Berman. All classes are textually based accompanied by take home insights and practical skills. A special workshop on Spirituality & Mindfulness will be given by Mrs. Robin Shaoul, L.C.S.W. to conclude the series.

Young women interested in joining EshelNY’s community of learners free of charge can reach out to Alica Matsas at igniteyoursoul3@gmail.com. Those righteous individuals who are interested in sponsoring a night of learning can also reach out to Alicia.

ARI BAUM CFP®

“THE ONLY WAY TO DECREASE MY TAXES IS TO REDUCE MY INCOME.” MANY AMERICANS FEEL SIMILARLY, BUT THERE’S A BETTER WAY. WHILE YOU’D LIKE TO PAY LESS, YOU DON’T WANT UNCLE SAM KNOCKING ON YOUR DOOR FOR AN AUDIT EITHER! TAX FORMS CAN BE COMPLICATED AND OPAQUE, MAKING IT HARD TO KNOW IF YOU’RE CLAIMING THE RIGHT AMOUNT IN DEDUCTIONS AND CREDITS. YOU’RE TIRED OF FEELING LIKE SOMEONE’S TAKING ADVANTAGE OF YOU WHEN IT COMES TO TAXES.

It’s not that you object to paying your fair share, the problem is you don’t really know if the amount you’re paying is fair. It might stress you out so much that you delay meetings with your accountant—but the thought of filing late gives you gut-wrenching anxiety!

The good news is that there may be some tax opportunities buried in your tax return, and all you need to do is a little digging. The bad news is that some of these opportunities could disappear if they aren’t used before midnight on December 31, 2022.

BE CHARITABLE AND SKIP YOUR REQUIRED WITHDRAWALS
The 2017 Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (TCJA) rolled back the required age for minimum withdrawals from retirement accounts from age 70½ to 72. If you don’t need the income when you turn 72, you may resent having to pay taxes on withdrawals you don’t need to take. That’s money that you’d prefer to leave in your retirement account for later when you may need it or you want to provide a legacy.

That’s where charity comes to the rescue. Why wait to give money to a favorite cause until after your death? Instead, you can give them operating cash up to $100,000 today through your Required Minimum Distribution (RMD) and avoid paying taxes on your withdrawal. This strategy is known as the Qualified Charitable Deduction, or QCD.

It’s critical to send the money directly to the charity from your retirement account, because the contribution is disqualified if the money makes a stop in your checking or other account along the way. As long as you follow the requirements, your QCD allows you to achieve the simultaneous objectives of supporting a cause that’s near-and-dear to you and reducing the amount of taxes you have to pay Uncle Sam.

MAKE THE RIGHT INVESTMENT ACCOUNT MOVES
Do you have the right investments in the right account? It’s not just about finding savvy investments, it’s also about determining where to put them. After all, as they say in real estate, it’s all about location, location, location.

Some types of assets perform better in one type of account over another. Ensuring you’ve got the right assets in the right places can potentially help you lower your tax bill.

If you own your own business, you have access to a variety of retirement plans. Depending on your business, you may be able to set aside more retirement money in one plan compared to another. Do you have the right plan for your business?

GATHER YOUR DEDUCTIONS WHILE YOU CAN
As every business owner knows, deductions are key to reducing your tax exposure. Even if you’re not an entrepreneur, tax deductions are hugely beneficial. Tax deductions that wealthy people have relied on for years such as state and local tax deductions, including mortgage interest and charitable deductions, were seriously cut back through the TCJA of 2017.

If your 2023 property taxes are billed or levied before the end of 2022, prepay them and claim them as a deduction if possible. (Note: You can’t claim your 2023 property taxes in 2022 unless they’re formally billed by your local government before December 31, 2022, even if you’ve already paid them).

Unreimbursed medical expenses are deductible if they meet the 7.5% Adjusted Gross Income (AGI) floor, so accelerate any medical procedures and payments that your health insurance doesn’t cover. These also include items such as long term care premiums and home modifications if you’re planning to age in place. While you can’t prepay for services you intend to have in 2023, you can increase your deductible expenses by scheduling services and procedures before December 31, 2022 that you would otherwise postpone.

WRING OUT YOUR 2022 TAX RATES
2022 tax rates are relatively low, especially for high earners. Depending on how the midterm elections shake out, making the most of the tax rate you have in 2022 could be a very smart move!

Mining the most value out of your tax rate could mean doing some Roth conversions, or even harvesting some capital gains on your investments. Since stock prices are dropping, it could be a great time to take some profit off the table and then reinvest at a lower price point—as long as you stay on the right side of the wash sale rules! These techniques must be completed by December 31 to be on your tax return for this year.

BE CONFIDENT THAT YOU’VE DESIGNED A SOLID TAX PLANNING STRATEGY
You’re a high-earning taxpayer who wants to pay your fair share in taxes—but no more than that. Billionaires who have far more money than you do often pay far less in taxes, which leaves you feeling like you’re being taken advantage of.

Fortunately, you don’t have to keep feeling that way. Understanding what the ultra-wealthy do and some of the strategies they use can help you legally reduce your tax burden. By operating within the rules, you can pay less and still not worry about an IRS audit.

However, you can’t just plan—you’ve got to execute on your strategy. Act fast because many of these opportunities turn right back into lumps of IRS code when the stock exchange closes on December 31 and some of these techniques may disappear forever by that deadline as well.

Another tool that the ultra-wealthy use is actually pretty simple: the help of knowledgeable professionals. It’s one thing to get stock tips from your brother-in-law, best friend, or college roommate, but quite another to put together and find what your personal plan has been missing.

The content is developed from sources believed to be providing accurate information. Consult your financial professional before making any investment decision. Investing involves risk including the potential loss of principal. No investment strategy can guarantee a profit or protect against loss. Past performance does not guarantee future results.

Ari Baum, CFP® is the founder and CEO of Endurance Wealth Partners. With over 25 years of experience in the Financial Services industry, he brings his in-depth experience to Conceive, Believe, Achieve, for his clients.

Securities and Advisory services offered through Prospera Financial Services Inc. Member FINRA/SIPC.

Brokerage and Advisory accounts carried by Wells Fargo Clearing Services, LLC.

Joey Saban

RECENTLY, THE SCF SAT DOWN WITH COUNCILWOMAN INNA VERNIKOV WHO REPRESENTS A LARGE PART OF OUR COMMUNITY, BROOKLYN’S 48TH COUNCIL DISTRICT. SHE SPOKE TO US ABOUT HER DRIVE TO COMBAT ANTI-SEMITISM AND TO STAND AS AN ADVOCATE WITHIN THE CITY COUNCIL ON IMPORTANT ISSUES. HERE IS THE TRANSCRIPT OF THE INTERVIEW.

SCF: You represent the 48th Council District in Brooklyn. Prior to running for office you had a successful law practice, what motivated you to run for public office?

Councilwoman Inna Vernikov (CIV): Politics is not something that I thought I would get into. I always dreamed I would be an attorney. I went to law school, became an attorney, had my own practice for eight years, but I was always active in the community. There were always issues I cared about, especially Anti-semitism. I saw things recently becoming really bad. The direction and agenda of the controlling party in NYC really bothered me—defunding the police, the rise in Anti-semitism, and as an immigrant from a communist country, I am sensitive to those signs. My family escaped that, so it became very important to me to become active in standing against that agenda. I decided the only way to try to ensure a better country and city was to run for office.

SCF: So you saw these challenges, and said, “this is something I can’t see or stand for,” and you decided to run, and you won. As Councilwoman, you took office during a challenging time of unparalleled uncertainty. There are so many issues plaguing NYC and our community as well. Give us some insight as to the challenges you faced, and how you dealt with or overcame them.

“You Get What You Vote For”
Councilwoman Inna Vernikov

CIV: I am one of 5 Republicans out of 51 members of the city council. The first challenge is to be in the minority, so for example when the majority wants to pass legislation, they can do so. It is difficult for Republicans to pass legislation being in the minority, but that doesn’t mean we stop trying. There are plenty of moderate Democrats and centrist Democrats that we work with, the hard left is not the majority but they are loud, and we have to stand up and oppose them—it’s another challenge we have to deal with in order to be a voice for our community.

SCF: I do want to move to the Anti-semitism issue and discuss specifically the case with CUNY. Did you face obstacles or challenges to shed light on their pervasive Anti-semitism?

CIV: Of course when standing up for anything, there are going to be challenges. I think one of the very real challenges is that there aren’t very many politicians who are willing to stand with you, especially on controversial issues. Anti-semitism is seen as controversial especially when it touches the subject of Israel and BDS, and so it’s complicated to get people to stand with you. I don’t mind being the lone voice especially when I know that I am on the right side of history, I am standing up for what’s right, and that I’m standing up for the people.

SCF: What further steps do you plan to take to further fight this tide of Anti-semitism?

CIV: Right now I am very focused on CUNY. I believe that a lot of what happens on the streets stems from the college campus. Young people get indoctrinated and brainwashed on the college campus. They then go out into the world and become influencing members of society, spreading messages that they learned in school, so that is where I am mostly focused right now. In less than six months, we have positive results to show for these efforts, and I am going to keep doing what I am doing in this area and I am going to keep getting results. That is the point of me being in office.

CIV: I think the worst things you can do is to remove yarmulkas, remove the items that identify you as Jewish, avoid pro Jewish rallies, not attend classes, being afraid to speak up in class or on campus. I think what people should do is speak up, not be intimidated, and unfortunately we need to be prepared—I encourage situational awareness, self-defense classes individually.

SCF: Is there anything we can do as a community to assist you and address this important issue?

CIV: Regarding Anti-semitism at CUNY, be aware…it’s one of the reasons I had the hearing—to expose the discrimination, harassment, and hostile environment that exists towards students and professors. Even though it existed, people were surprised at how large the scale was, and only through awareness can we actually do something about it. A second point I’d like to make is that people should voice their concerns. Can you imagine if the CUNY chancellor had gotten thousands of emails? Can you imagine the pressure? It would upset them and compel them to give attention to the matter.

SCF: With the political landscape changing so rapidly in the city, what is the most important thing we can do as a community both socially and politically to stay engaged?

CIV: I think the most important thing is to vote, and I know your community has been putting forth great efforts in that. I think people need to connect the dots between who they are voting for, or not voting, and what they see on the streets. How do we change that? We vote for the right people. You get what you vote for!

SCF: And that is the exact message of the SCF! We need to vote and support our local politicians who stand for us. Going off of voting and voter registration, for years the SCF has promoted and expanded civic engagement. How important do you think it is that the politicians see us as a strong voting block?

CIV: Incredibly important, if you are a politician, or in politics, and you know that there is a strong community block that you need to reach, you are going to be responsive to that community—it’s very important to you. You know they will vote for you and then vote for you again if you are doing things for them. I think you guys are getting there.

SCF: If there is one thing you want the community to know about you, what would it be?

CIV: The community should know that when I am passionate about something, or I see an injustice, I will never stop fighting for them. I am not doing this merely as a job. I believe in what I am doing and being a voice for the voiceless. We do not have enough leaders who do the work. This is why I fight Anti-semitism—there are not enough politicians taking up that issue, and other issues.

And that is the difference, someone like Inna Vernikov, who fights the hard fight, and follows through on campaign promises with conviction.

Thank you on behalf of the entire Jewish Community.

Joey Saban is an active SCF Board member.

IT’S TIME TO SCREAM LOUDER

Sari Setton

Two years ago I wrote the article below, and it could not be more relevant today. Now more than ever, we are seeing the ramifications of not voting. Our quality of life, home values, and the critical organizations we depend on—are at stake.

“I have NO idea who my Councilman is, let alone my State Senator or State Assemblyman.”

“I think I voted once because I was home that day but I can’t remember what election it was for or who I even voted for.”

“Vote? No, I don’t vote. I’m a Republican and New York elects Democrats anyway, why should I bother?”

“I don’t get involved in politics.”

“I don’t know where to go, or even what to do, and I am embarrassed that at my age, I have never voted.”

Unfortunately, these are real responses I have gotten when simply asking “do you vote?”

Recently, while on a community-wide zoom townhall, a woman went through a list of complaints about radical Democrats while the elected official attempted to explain to her the importance of voting. When she finished, I messaged her privately and asked her “Do you vote?” I nearly fell off my chair when she typed back “Why bother? Nothing changes. My one vote is going to change anything?” I replied simply, “Your vote is your voice, and so by withholding your vote, you are silencing not only yourself, but the community as a whole. Mrs. X, it’s time to SCREAM!”

It is true that New York City is predominantly Democratic, but wherever one falls in their personal political views, if registered as a Republican, they are unable to vote in the Democratic primaries. This can have disastrous consequences. If we, as a community, want to shape the landscape of the leadership, we must be willing to shape it. It has never been more important to simply go out and VOTE.

In September of 2019, Jewish IMAGE published an article written by the SCF, informing the community that “Progressive Democrats, feeling empowered by a handful of high profile victories have thrown their weight behind any progressive trying to unseat moderate democratic incumbents.”

Virtually all of the competitive elections in Brooklyn, Manhattan, and recently, Queens, are, and have been, decided by Democratic Party primary elections that are held in June of each year. As of September 2022, The Governor, State Senate Majority, State Assembly Majority, Attorney General, Comptroller, Mayor, City Comptroller, every borough District Attorney, NYC Public Advocate, as well as four out of five Borough Presidents, and 46 of the 51 New York City Council members are Democrats.

As the city and state continues its leftward tilt, it is clear that our community must have the ability to vote in the Democratic primaries. This will have an influence on which Democrats run in the November elections. Strengthening our voting numbers in these primaries will greatly encourage candidates to support issues that are vital to our community. The stark choice these days is between a moderate Democrat and a progressive one.

Moreover, we must turn out for the general election vote each and every November. Politicians pay attention to how many people come out to vote—even if not for them. Our community must be seen as powerful to make our voices heard.

As Councilwoman Inna Vernikov said, “You Get What You Vote for.”

This is not to be taken lightly. Recent events have left our community fearful and vulnerable. We have been too silent. We must take this seriously and make our concerns known by using our influence as a voting block. Elected officials must see and know that we will go to the polls, we will support those who support us, and we will stand together to take action on the needs of our community.

Make the effort—VOTE in November, VOTE in future primaries, use your vote as your voice.

Sari Setton is the executive director of The Sephardic Community Federation.

Sam Sutton

Many people in our community believe you should only vote for a Republican. While I understand where they are coming from, I do believe that there are exceptions to every rule and when it comes to Steven Cymbrowitz in the State Assembly, an exception is called for.

On the federal level, which is the only one that actually has international influence, there are many politicians that are far too influenced by the scourge of woke thought and should never be supported. These people attack Zionism and it is often a cover for outright anti-Semitism. Of course, this usually doesn’t apply to any candidates in our area of Brooklyn, which is considered very “conservative” by national standards.

It is important to note that Steven Cymbrowitz’s Republican opponent is a six-time Bernie Sanders donor who became a Republican only a few short months ago.

This is not a candidate who reflects our community’s values. While there might be an inclination to vote Republican, an exception must be made for Steven Cymbrowitz. This is one of the many reasons why Steven deserves our vote.

The NY State Assembly has had an overwhelming Democratic majority since 1975. In fact, Democrats actually have a veto-proof super-majority. Having our Assemblyman who is a senior member with access to the leadership is the only way to influence policy and get things done that are in our best interest.

A Republican would have no voice and cannot influence the leadership. One thing is clear, no one has done more for our community more often nor better than Steven Cymbrowitz.

Steven has access to leadership. The importance of this cannot be overstated. Without Steven’s access to Assembly leadership, yeshivahs and other nonpublic schools would not have been included in the Smart Schools Bond Act. Steven arranged for a private meeting for Ronnie Tawil and me with the then Speaker of the Assembly, Shelly Silver. In an one hour meeting, we explained that the governor had proposed a school bond bill that excluded yeshivahs. That meeting convinced Speaker Silver to insist the bill include yeshivahs. Rabbi Lefkowitz of Agudah called me to say thank you. That change was worth $28,000,000 to Jewish schools in NY State.

Steven’s extraordinary relationship with leadership is how things get done. Without Steven’s type of leadership our community would not be able to get the vital resources it needs. A vote for Steven is a vote for the candidate who will continue to deliver for our community.

Steven has voted to secure over $326 million in spending and $58 million in STEM funding for yeshivahs and other nonpublic schools in this year’s budget. He proposed a bill in the Assembly to set up a $200,000,000 loan fund for parents in Special Ed schools, who often have to lay out hundreds of thousands of tuition dollars before they are reimbursed.

Steven was one of the first and most enthusiastic elected officials to support our efforts to launch Teach NYS. Teach NYS has achieved multiple and major successes in assisting our yeshivahs, and parents with millions of dollars in NY State funding earmarked towards yeshivah education.

He has funded the organizations we depend on. During his tenure he has secured major grants for SAFE, Sephardic Community Center, Sephardic Bikur Holim and the Cancer Center. Just last month he secured a $250,000 capital grant for the SCC, as well as a $250,000 capital grant for the Cancer Center. Each year he’s funded Met Council, the nation’s largest Jewish charity serving vulnerable people in need. This is in addition to funding for Holocaust survivors and for Holocaust programs.

Please don’t forget to vote on Election Day, Tuesday, November 8th and re-elect Steven Cymbrowitz to the State Assembly (45th AD). Or you can vote early—from October 29th through November 6th. Please go to findmypollsite.com for details.

Vote from the bottom up and cast your vote for Steven Cymbrowitz at the bottom of Column A or as the Independence Party candidate in Column F.

Sam A. Sutton is a community activist who volunteers his time in service of many community organizations.

MORRIS COHEN

STEVE LEVY WAS THE CLOSEST THING I HAD TO AN OLDER BROTHER. I HAVE LEARNED SINCE HIS PASSING THAT I AM DEFINITELY NOT THE ONLY ONE WHO CAN CLAIM SUCH A CLOSE RELATIONSHIP. HIS IMPACT HAS BEEN FELT BY SO MANY PEOPLE.

Thirty five years ago, when I desperately needed a career change, Steve arranged an interview for me at the same apparel firm where he was working. The experience from that job forever changed the course of my life by providing the foundational skills I needed to navigate through the apparel industry, where I am still today. When I told people this, they had similar stories to tell me. Steve helped my cousin Cookie Grossman get her first job on Wall Street, and another friend of Steve’s related that Steve had taken him under his wing, teaching him valuable computer skills after his father had passed away. Such acts epitomize charity at its highest level. That’s just who Steve was.

To better understand him you really had to know his mother, Sarah Levy A”H. She was a true pillar of strength. Sarah, imbued her boys with our traditions, as well as other necessary survival skills, to brave through life’s ups and downs. Steve inherited her tenacity.

He exemplified resilience. I remember him in early adulthood, he was energetic and positive. He had a way of striding through life without any pretenses and always on his own terms. He had an upbeat and magnetic personality, drawing an ever wider circle of friends.

I’ve heard many refer to him as a Renaissance man. He was knowledgeable in a multitude of subjects, including cars, mechanics, gardening, how to roast a Thanksgiving turkey—you name it! He exuded a kind of a confidence that rubbed off on you.

When he met Ruthie they decided to start a new life together, and they never looked back. I remember his wedding very fondly, it was truly one of the most joyful and memorable weddings our family ever experienced together, and I was honored to be his best man.

He had a gift for making things sound so simple and logical. He knew how to boil things down to their very essence.

When I was dating Kara, Steve was the first member of my family who I introduced her to. His blessing was very important to me. Five years into our marriage, we decided to move out of the city. We somehow managed to find a home just two doors down from Steve and Ruthie, in West Deal. Although we had zero familiarity with the community, we knew that as long as Steve was nearby, he had our backs. He would remain our anchor and our guide. Eventually, our sons grew up together—like brothers—extending our bonds even further.

When Steve became ill, he would not allow such an inconvenient truth to paralyze him with fear or stop him from enjoying his life. He never lost that twinkle in his eye. During his last summer, he made sure to get to the beach every Sunday, to sit with family and friends. Even though he had his good days and bad days, any day spent at the beach meant it was a good day.

It is still unfathomable for us, to think of Steve in the past tense. I can still see him (with his Marlboro Man mustache and his sunglasses) driving his car with the top down, and walking his dog Lucy, up and down Dwight Drive. I can still hear him muttering an unfiltered comment about my choice of a tie or some other fashion attire. It goes without saying, he will be sorely missed. My life seems much emptier.

We are living in anxious and trying times—times of transition and uncertainty—times that demand faith and fortitude. Steve Levy A”H taught us the true meaning of faith. Faith is not certainty, it’s the courage to live with uncertainty. We just need to plod ahead, one day at a time, weather the storm and take the risks.

Steve was a self-made man, proud of the legacy he leaves behind: his loving children and grandchildren. I can already see in them his generosity of spirit, good humor, and his propensity for forming deep friendships.

May the memory of my dear cousin and mentor Steve Levy continue to be a blessing to Ruthie, Sarah, Rachel and Sammy, his brother Gabe, and the entire Levy family.

Morris Cohen was Steve’s best man, cousin and friend.

A BOOK CELEBRATING THE LIFE OF SANDY YEDID A”H

IN A NEW BOOK ENTITLED ONE OF A KINDNESS, COMMUNITY MEMBER ELI YEDID CELEBRATES THE LIFE OF HIS MOTHER, SANDY YEDID, BY REMEMBERING THE REMARKABLE WAY SHE TOUCHED SO MANY LIVES.

It’s a warm, affectionate and humourous look at a beloved woman in our community. Sandy Yedid lived happily, laughed heartily and loved unconditionally.

In the preface, Eli remembers his father telling him that Sandy was the love of his life. He continued, “I was blessed with the best wife a man can ever have. I was with her for 54 years—but not enough. It’s been five years without her, and not a day goes by without thinking about her.”

Perhaps the best review came from Eli’s sister Michele, who said, “I very much want to thank my brother Eli for creating such a lovely tribute to our larger than life mom. Sandy Yedid was a woman who lived every minute like it was her last, with gusto, with love, kindness, dignity and a laugh that you could hear from space. I haven’t been able to read more than the first chapter, because it is beautifully written and captures her so perfectly that all I did was sob uncontrollably, as I struggled not to laugh, and then I gave up because I couldn’t read through the tears. I love you Eli, I love the legacy you have left for our children and for generations to come. Everyone should know who she was and how she lived her life. She was truly one-of-a-kindness and so much more.”

Don’t worry, you won’t cry all the way through. As a matter of fact, you may laugh until you cry at some points. In chapter 4, Eli likens Sandy to Lucille Ball and tells about the time she and her friend went to a busy hair salon. Not wanting to wait, Sandy decides to wash her friend’s hair and winds up flooding the entire place. The comparison is perfect because it’s easy to picture Lucy shampooing Ethel’s hair.

He also tells about Sandy’s days working at Paramount Pictures and rubbing elbows with celebrities. There are stories about how she interacted with Tommy Smothers of the Smother’s Brothers and William Holden. When Tommy told her he was one of the Smother’s Brothers, she replied that she was one of the Laniado Sisters.

It’s a wonderful book that truly paints a picture of a lovely woman. Eli is a masterful writer. The book is available on Amazon for purchase.

THE VISIONARY

SARINA ROFFÉ

THE LEGACY OF DAVID E. COHEN A”H IS THE COMPLETION OF THE BUILDING OF CONGREGATION SHAARE ZION IN 1960. BUT DAVE CONTRIBUTED SO MUCH MORE TO THE COMMUNITY THAT I FEAR THE WORDS I WRITE WILL NOT DO HIM JUSTICE.

He was a giant among men, a visionary, a teacher and strategist committed to keeping the community united. He passed away in 2021 just before his 95th birthday.

David Eliahu Cohen was born in 1926 and grew up in Bensonhurst during the Great Depression. Like most children of the time period, he began working at age 11. By the time he got to high school he was earning $15 a week doing odd jobs before and after school. His high school guidance counselor told the students that if they graduated, they could earn $25 a week. He laughed and quit school at 16 knowing he could earn way more working full time.

He married Regina Shamula in 1947. They had four children—Eileen, Elliot, Aaron, and Shari—and were married for 74 years. They left a legacy of multiple grandchildren, great, and great-great grandchildren.

“My father was a visionary. From a very young age he noticed the uniqueness and importance of our community. As time went on, he became aware of the great value of our exceptional traditions which go back a thousand years,” said his son Elliot Cohen. “As he first got involved in the building of Shaare Zion and then went on to become its president, his love of our community only became greater. The goal of all his work was always to strengthen our community, keep us unified and preserve our ancient traditions of faith and tolerance. That was always what it was all about for him.”

With a sharp mind, inborn leadership, great people and political skills, Dave accomplished ambitious goals. Shaare Zion became a template for the community’s multiple synagogues. In 1983, it was Dave who crafted the synagogue’s constitution, revolutionized its election procedures and started the first Torah learning center in Shaare Zion.

He also had a behind the scenes hand in many other community organizations. According to his son Aaron, “He had a hidden hand in the Sephardic Community Center, Congregation Har Lebanon, Ahi Ezer housing, the Avenue S Mikveh, and Magen David Yeshivah High School.”

He was often called upon by builders of other community congregations for his advice on how to optimize space in their new buildings.

“Today the phenomenon of what the Jewish Syrian community has become is clear to all of us and is now recognized throughout the Jewish world. What my dad recognized in his early years is now obvious to all,” said Elliot.

Even though he dropped out of high school, Dave never stopped learning. He had high intelligence and read thousands of books that were often discussed at the dinner table. He quoted from Ralph Waldo Emerson, wise old Arabic sayings, Machiavelli, and Bartlett’s Familiar Quotations.

He was also blessed with tremendous verbal skills. He interacted with several chief rabbis, Israeli prime ministers, as well as governors, senators, congressmen, and mayors. Yet, he could just as easily speak with a young grandchild on their level.

He worked with Abe M. Cohen A”H to bring the long-stalled project at 2030 Ocean Parkway to fruition. Together, they built the community’s mother synagogue, a place where thousands of couples married and had many joyous events in the community’s first social hall. Determined to get the building completed, Dave and Abe became an inspiration to generations of community leaders that followed. Videos on YouTube tell his story.

His sons say he was their best teacher and that anyone who talked to or interacted with Dave was a student of the DCU (Dave Cohen University). Elliot was just seven years old when he often joined his father as they built Shaare Zion and then their home on East 5th Street, learning about construction. After Dave finished his term as Deputy Borough President of Brooklyn in the mid-1970s, he began a men’s apparel business on West 42nd Street in Manhattan with his sons. The business put his sons on a path to success. When they needed a bookkeeper, he brought in his daughter Shari, who knew nothing about bookkeeping. She soon became a graduate of ‘DCU.’

In the mid-1950s, Jews were emigrating from Egypt to New York. He not only hired many of them but gave them shares in his business which freed him up to put his energy into the Shaare Zion project.

Also in the mid-1950s, Dave did something revolutionary for the time. He enrolled his daughter Eileen in Yeshivah of Flatbush. He met with the great educator, Joel Braverman who was pleasantly surprised because Syrian girls were not yeshivah educated then. Though she was first entering in third grade, he made sure she caught up and she excelled there. Today, many of her children and grandchildren are talmidei hachamim.

“I remember him taking lessons to play the oud. We had Syrian music jam sessions in our backyard in Bradley Beach. He was teaching me that I can learn to play an instrument and jam,” said Elliot.

Dave loved the pizmonim of his childhood. Concerned that this important part of our heritage would be lost, he started the Pizmonim Project. In the 70s, he gathered most of the popular hazanim and musicians at that time. He had them arrange and rehearse 12 popular pizmonim. He called them the ‘greatest hits.’ Working with Joe Catton A”H, they took the group to a recording studio in Manhattan.

“They produced the recording and included a booklet so the listener could easily learn to sing along. Needless to say, it was a big hit!” said Elliot. “First the songs were released as 8-track tapes, then cassettes, CDs and now they are on YouTube, Apple Music, and Spotify where they have thousands and thousands of hits! Walk into a sebet and listen to all the singing. We never lost our pizmonim.”

He was generous to a fault. Once he had his own business, he employed his wife Regina’s three younger brothers who had grown up fatherless. He also helped his immigrant uncles get on their feet financially. Dave had first cousins he had never met living in Israel. He went there, sought them out and found one of them living in an apartment with virtually no furniture. He wept upon seeing this. He arranged to furnish their home. Many years later that same cousin was a victim of a suicide bomber where several family members were killed. Dave was right there raising funds for them.

“Dad’s mother was a DePicciotto,” said his son Aaron. “A family with a history of being ambassadors and diplomats going back to the 1700s. He was so proud to be part of that. He would reach out across the globe to connect with anyone named Picciotto. He found a distant cousin in Milan, Italy with whom he helped craft a family tree.”

In his memory, Shehebar Sephardic Center in Israel is forming the David E. Cohen Leadership Initiative. According to Rabbi Sam Kassin, Dean, “From the building of Congregation Shaare Zion and establishing its constitution to being its president for many years, it was David E. Cohen who handled it all with foresight and commitment. He brought rabbis and teachers to guide the community. Often people didn’t agree with him and caused a flurry, but he worked and found solutions we live with today. His love for Judaism and his people was nothing more than an extension of his family.”

David E. Cohen will be teaching for generations to come through videos captured on YouTube and Sephardic Heritage films.

A genealogist and historian, Sarina Roffé is the author of Branching Out from Sepharad (Sephardic Heritage Project, 2017). Sarina holds a BA in Journalism, and MA in Jewish Studies and an MBA.

LAURA SHAMMAH MS, RDN

WHEN IT COMES TO BEING HEALTHY, IT TRULY IS WHAT’S ON THE INSIDE THAT COUNTS. A PERSON WHO YOU MIGHT THINK IS HEALTHY BECAUSE THEY ARE THIN, MIGHT NOT BE. SOMETIMES EVEN THE SLIMMEST, HEALTHIEST LOOKING PEOPLE WE KNOW CAN HAVE AS MANY HEALTH ISSUES AS SOMEONE WHO IS OVERWEIGHT.

As crazy as this may seem, there is a health risk for people at a seemingly normal, healthy weight called “normal weight obesity.” This term is used when a person is at a healthy weight but can acquire the same health risks as someone who is overweight or obese. This happens if a person’s body fat is high enough—even if from the outside they look slim. In other words, how skinny fat you are boils down to your body composition. That is, how much of your weight is either fat or muscle.

Some of the risks of being normal weight obese or “skinny fat” include:
• High blood pressure
• Irregular cholesterol levels
• Diabetes
• Metabolic issues

High cholesterol does not discriminate against body type, and body weight does not determine if a person suffers from high cholesterol or high triglycerides (a type of fat in the blood).

The American Heart Association Trusted Source recommends that you start getting cholesterol tests every four to six years, starting when you’re 20 (even if you’re thin!). If high cholesterol runs in your family, you should start even earlier and get tested more often.

Up to 10% of the population may be normal weight obese. People believe that if their BMI (body mass index) is in the normal range, they are healthy.

However, your BMI does not include your body fat, only your weight. It is important to remember that obesity is determined by body fat, not necessarily how much you weigh.

If you are concerned that you are “skinny fat,” just start to focus on you inner body health and not just the outside. To decrease these risks, begin:
• Weight lifting
• Cardio
• High-intensity interval training
• Eating clean

Doing all this will turn your skinny fat into lean and strong muscle. You should never judge a book by its cover, because sometimes that cover does not reflect what is going on inside.

Laura Shammah MS, RDN has a masters degree in health and nutrition and is a registered dietitian. She has been operating her own private practice in both New York and NJ for over 20 years. She is happily married and has four children.

ARI BAUM CFP®

THE NEW INFLATION REDUCTION ACT IS A BIG ENCHILADA OF GREEN ENERGY SPENDING, CORPORATE TAXES, AND SOME PRETTY MAJOR CHANGES TO MEDICARE. IS THIS DEAL A BIG DEAL? COULD BE. READ ON TO FIND OUT.

MEDICARE CHANGES YOU SHOULD KNOW ABOUT

MEDICARE WILL BE ABLE TO NEGOTIATE DRUG PRICES (STARTING IN 2026).
For the first time, the Medicare program will have the power to negotiate the cost of (some) drugs. Before price negotiations kick off, new rules will also force manufacturers to pay “rebates” to the government if they increase covered drug prices higher than general inflation (starting in 2023) and limit Medicare Part D premium increases each year (starting in 2024).

Why does this matter? Drug price inflation is crazy high, outpacing general inflation for thousands of medications. The power to negotiate drug prices with manufacturers could end up lowering costs. For example, a budget study found that Medicare was paying 32% more for the same drugs as Medicaid (which already has the power to negotiate prices).

Lower prices could lead to overall program savings (and possibly lower Medicare premiums), plus save money for retirees who depend on those specific drugs.

OUT-OF-POCKET DRUG COSTS ON PART D WILL BE CAPPED AT $2,000/YEAR (STARTING IN 2025)
Under current laws, there’s no cap on how much people have to spend out-of-pocket for their medications, which can really add up under cost-sharing requirements.

Starting in 2024, folks who spend enough out-of-pocket on medications to surpass the “catastrophic threshold” will no longer have to pay coinsurance for their expensive drugs. And, starting in 2025, the maximum out-of-pocket medicine cost for folks on Part D will be a flat $2,000.

Why does this matter? Many drugs (especially new ones) can be devastatingly expensive. Capping annual drug costs will hopefully not only save folks money, but also lead to more predictability in their yearly health care costs.

OUT-OF-POCKET INSULIN COSTS WILL BE CAPPED AT $35/MONTH FOR MEDICARE PARTICIPANTS (STARTING IN 2023)
Starting in 2023, enrollees won’t have to spend more than $35 per month on their insulin copays. Folks on private health insurance won’t see a change.

Why does this matter? As anyone who needs insulin will tell you, it can get pricey, costing over $500 per year on average and much more if you need one of the more expensive versions.

Capping costs could help the millions who need this life-saving medication.

ALL VACCINES WILL BE FREE UNDER PART D (STARTING IN 2023)
While flu and COVID-19 shots might be covered for many, most vaccines are not. Starting in 2023, cost-sharing under Part D will end, making all covered adult vaccines free.

Why does this matter? Many adult vaccines can cost quite a few bucks. For example, the shingles vaccine can cost upwards of $150 a pop and other recommended vaccines can also be very pricey.

Making vaccines free could not only lower the financial impact of immunizations, but also increase their availability to lower-income folks.

WILL THESE NEW LAWS HELP RETIREES?
This is where the future gets hazy. Legal challenges or post-election changes could end up altering much of what’s in the Inflation Reduction Act. And much depends on the actual execution of the new rules.

The new rules could also mean premium changes as insurance companies figure out their models. Since health care is one of the biggest unknown costs in retirement, lowering drug costs and making spending more predictable for Medicare recipients could absolutely have a positive impact on millions of people.

WILL THE INFLATION REDUCTION ACT HELP THE ECONOMY?
Whether the overall bill will live up to its name, lower inflation, and have a net positive impact on the economy also remains to be seen.

Some economists project that the bill will end up modestly reducing inflation and trimming the federal budget over the next decade. Others are concerned about the impact of the new corporate tax rules written into the legislation. As is usually the case, time will tell.

The content is developed from sources believed to be providing accurate information. Consult your financial professional before making any investment decision. Investing involves risk including the potential loss of principal. No investment strategy can guarantee a profit or protect against loss. Past performance does not guarantee future results.

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

JEFF SCHINDLER

THIS SUMMER STARTED OUT LIKE ANY OTHER. AFTER A LONG TIME IN BROOKLYN, IT WAS TIME TO PACK MY CAR AND BAGS AND PREPARE FOR A RELAXING SUMMER IN DEAL. AFTER THE PAST TWO YEARS OF HOME-SCHOOLING AND WORKING FROM HOME, I WAS REALLY LOOKING FORWARD TO IT. I ESPECIALLY LOOKED FORWARD TO MY MORNING BIKE RIDES.

My biking partner Mindy and I would ride along Ocean Avenue, exploring Sandy Hook and pretty much the whole area. It has always been a relaxing way to exercise. On July 17th, I picked up my bike partner at 6 A.M. to start our Sunday morning 35-mile ride. We were both training for an upcoming charity bike ride from Jerusalem to Eilat.

We started in Ocean Grove and after about two miles, she noticed I was not wearing a helmet. In 30 years of riding, I had never before left my house to ride without a helmet, in fact, I had my helmet in my hand before I left, but must have put it down. I am an EMT and have seen the results of riding without one. A head injury is very serious. I should have known better, but I got lazy.

I thought, we had been riding this route for years and nothing would happen. I was wrong. I rode into Long Branch, where the boardwalk begins. There is a barrier that stops cars from getting onto the pathway. It is sometimes open and sometimes closed. I didn’t see it and I slammed into the barrier breaking my nose. It stopped me instantly. I fell backwards on my head. Here is where the miracles began, I lived to tell about it. G-d has reasons for everything.

Mindy was holding my head, which was bleeding heavily. She made sure I stayed conscious, while at the same time alerting 911 and contacting my wife Sophia, who came running and followed me to Jersey Shore Hospital. While I was in pre-op, I felt very lightheaded like I was going to faint. This was the 2nd miracle, my wife, who wasn’t even allowed to be with me was the only one who noticed me losing consciousness. She rushed to grab a doctor and I was rushed to surgery, where I was given blood and 40 stitches in my head. Three and a half hours later I was in ICU. My wife was by my side every second, making sure I was ok and seeing to every need.

Recovery was hard, but thanks to friends like Mandi and Morris Bildirici, and of course, my wife Sophia and bike partner Mindy I am back on a bike almost a month later.

No matter how experienced a rider you are or how confident you are, put that bike helmet on so you can return home to your wife, friends and family. This goes for motor scooters and motorcycles as well.

That was my miracle at the Jersey shore.

Jeff Schindler is a Brooklyn born member of our community. He has 2 children and 2 grandchildren and has been married for 38 years to Sophia Shalom Schindler (Morah Sophia).

SOPHIA FRANCO

FIGHTING A MEDICAL BATTLE IS FRIGHTENING, NO MATTER WHO OR WHERE YOU ARE, AND NO MATTER HOW MANY LOVED ONES SURROUND YOU. IMAGINE, AT A TIME LIKE THIS, HAVING TO LEAVE YOUR HOME TO TRAVEL TO A FOREIGN CITY FOR TREATMENT FOR AN EXTENDED PERIOD OF TIME.

Imagine your life is being turned upside down by medical chaos, and having to worry about something as simple as a roof over your head. Imagine the physical, mental and financial strain that you might feel at this time. Now imagine that instead of being alone, in a cold hotel, or in a stranger’s basement, there was a beautiful place to stay, for free, for you, and your family. Imagine that it was a place with every amenity, where you could feel the comfort and stability of home.

Eva Shammah, Elliot Shelby, Natalie Ammar Shalom, Regine Shrem, and Lillian Srour have all been realtors in Brooklyn, New York for a while now. Often, they would receive calls asking if they knew of any short-term leases for people coming from foreign countries for medical treatments in NY. Each of them would stop what they were doing when these calls came in, and try their best, but this task was nothing short of impossible. Apartments like this did not exist in our area, and most people coming in could not afford to pay rent. There were hardly any landlords willing to do short term, and even if they would, the apartments were empty. Without furniture, linens, towels and sheets, how could anyone stay there?

About a year ago, the opportunity arose for this group of realtors to do something good. An older couple had put their home on the market. It was decrepit, and mold infested, and the owners were actually ill from the conditions they were living in. Elliot remembers, “We walked out crying. They couldn’t afford to move but we decided then and there to rent them an apartment immediately. We couldn’t leave them there to get sicker, and we knew the house would sell, eventually.” The realtors paid the rent for the couple and decided that when the house sold, they would use the commission to do something amazing. The day came, and together they rented their first “hesed” apartment. They thought long and hard, and called their new project, Habayit, Home away from Home.

Natalie explained, “The apartment was old, but we set it up and made it stunning. We got some community boys to paint, we changed the kitchen, and cleaned it up until it was sparkling.” Eva continued, “Our community is beyond! We called maybe a dozen people, and within hours we had everything donated; furniture, towels, sheets, washer/dryers, dishes, pots, silverware, games, toys, books, and even sefarim! We stocked the apartment with food and literally everything we could think of that people might need, down to a list of kosher restaurants that we taped to the fridge.”

The first call the team got was for the family of a baby born with a cleft palate. Excited, they filmed the apartment and sent the video to all the people who helped make it happen. Eva recalled, “One of the girls who had helped called me and said, ‘I can’t believe this—when I was a baby I had cleft palate. We lived in Syria at the time, and we came to NY to do the surgeries. We bounced from house to house every time I needed medical treatment, and I remember this as one of the most difficult times in our lives. Look how Hashem got me involved in this! I had no idea. G-d bless you all.”

As the calls kept coming in, the team realized that while one apartment was amazing, it would not be enough. They called on more realtors, and got more people involved. By May 2022 they had four apartments completed, and two more rented, but the calls kept coming in. They created an Instagram account and started a fundraiser online. Their goal was $360,000. With endorsements from Rabbi Joey Haber, Rabbi David Ozeri and community giant Harry Adjmi, they raised the funds in 48 hours.

Rabbi Ozeri explained, “These people are suffering already, with cancer, infertility, blood disorders, and so many unbearable situations, we should never know, and finding a place to stay is just another level of anxiety. To know they have a home to come to with every imaginable amenity is solving half their problems. These apartments are going to be used for life saving situations. We have so many organizations but something like this is long overdue.”

Eva recalled, “After the fundraiser my phone was ringing off the hook! ‘I have an apartment, I have furniture…’ People were stopping me everywhere, donating like wildfire, volunteering, dropping food off, sneakers—anything you can think of! Everyone was so enthusiastic, wanting to help and be a part of it. We have a chat with over 200 participants now; It’s just so beautiful to see how the community got together on this.” Habayit now has nine furnished apartments, and four more being renovated. They are all local, so that shuls are close by, and people can help out with cooking, driving, and anything else that might be needed.

Natalie continued, “These people are coming from all over. Some as far as Israel, Mexico, Panama, and Argentina, and others from Boston, Florida, and Colorado. All of them are our brothers and sisters, far from home, and scared. When they come through our doors we can actually see it— the sigh of relief. They are thinking, ‘I don’t have to worry, I have a roof over my head and a community that’s here to help me.’ For them, this is a five-star hotel. This work we are doing, this money that’s being donated, it isn’t just paying someone’s rent. It’s changing their lives.

The coincidences keep coming. One landlord, when asked if he would be interested, replied, “When I was young, my father had cancer for nine months and we stayed in a hesed apartment in Boston. I always said NY needs a place like this, and now you got me involved.”

Messages like this flood Eva’s inbox, “There are those that do hesed, and there are those that love hesed. You are definitely one of those who loves hesed. Every detail, every show of affection and that indescribable brotherhood, make the stay of those of us who arrived, something much more beautiful and easier to carry. Infinite thanks for everything!”

With fourteen Habayit apartments you would think some would stay empty, but that’s not the case; there is actually a waiting list at times. Imagine that this organization did not exist! Elliot said, “Our guests need to concentrate on one thing—getting better. We try to take the burden off, help, however we can. I equate the work we are doing with a type of a mishkan. It gives the patient and his family a home base, a refuge, and something to be thankful for. For most, that is all they need. May everyone who stays in these apartments have a speedy recovery, and refuah shelama!”

Thank you to the Habayit Home Away from Home team: Eva Shammah, Natalie Ammar, Elliot Shelby, Regine Shrem, Lillian Srour, Ruthie Srour, Paulie Shamah, Aaron Cohen, Renee Kassin, Batya Esses, Muriel Mizrahi, Evie Daniel. And to our donors, who took the mitzvah and ran with it: Mattresses for less, Appliance Palace, Addy and Company, Light Lab, Delta Children, Community Locksmith, The Modern Mezuza, Sam Salem and Son, Ikey Locksmith and Security, Blends Décor, Betsons Furniture, Khasky, Telco, American Linen, Inspired Home, Meridian, Faux Florals, Maven Interiors, Sweet Home Collection, Art and Cook and so many more! You know who you are!

Follow on Instagram: @Habayit_ny
Donate on our website: www.habayit.org
And to volunteer, contact Regine Shrem at:
(917) 405-2316
Tizku l’mitzvot! (May you merit to do more mitzvot)

Sophia Franco is a mom and grandma, and a lover of the written word in all forms. She has been an author, lyricist and poet for our community for more years than she can count.