DURING 2020, AS MANY MINYANIM NEEDED TO HOLD SERVICES OUTDOORS, CONGREGATION MAGEN DAVID OF MADISON GAINED ENORMOUS POPULARITY WITHIN THE MADISON AREA. THE CHARACTER OF THE SHUL, WHICH IS BASED ON OUR TRADITIONAL CUSTOMS OF ARAM SOBA, HAS CREATED A DEFINITE BUZZ IN THE AREA.

Many congregants have said that the Shul has a spiritual camaraderie that is really heartfelt. It reminds them of their childhood, when their parents and grandparents had a yearning to be totally involved in the betterment of their synagogue, on an everyday basis.

Whether a person is contributing monetarily or just likes going shopping every Friday to fill the refrigerator for seudah shelishit, or Shabbat breakfast, the atmosphere is fun and energetic.

The founding members Elliot Betesh, Isaac Hamway, Joey Chabot, Morris Betesh, Marc Schmool, Adam Shrem, Elliot Bar David and several others remember the first High Holiday services of 2021 which were held in the driveway, on the side of Elliot Betesh’s house, outside—rain or shine—before the Shul moved to its current location on East 24th Street.

Magen David of Madison now has over 100 regular members for Shabbat, with weekly classes, guest lecturers and meals donated by generous supporters each week. Plus holiday prayers are in full swing. Magen David will also be instituting a youth program soon, and there have already been two beautiful Sefer Torah dedications, most recently by Mike and Gloria Masri.

The actual location of the Shul is the corner of Avenue P and East 24th, which is also a central connection point for the Madison area, as it is within easy walking distance for many young families on either side of Kings Highway or Bedford Avenue.

The Shul is quickly selling seats and becoming very popular in the neighborhood. Please come and pray at Magen David of Madison and experience something new which is inspired by the old glorious ways of our founding community members.

RAPHAEL POCH

ON A RECENT TUESDAY EVENING AT PIER 60, IN CHELSEA PIERS, OVER 1,000 PEOPLE GATHERED IN SUPPORT OF FRIENDS OF UNITED HATZALAH, ISRAEL’S PREMIER FULLY VOLUNTEER EMERGENCY MEDICAL SERVICE ORGANIZATION. OVER 400 OF THOSE IN ATTENDANCE WERE YOUNG PROFESSIONALS UNDER THE AGE OF 35.

The crowd was there to attend the 3rd Annual Gala held by Friends of United Hatzalah of Israel, in support of the work done by the organization’s network of 6,200 emergency medical volunteers in Israel. Throughout the night supporters made donations which will go to support Hatazalah’s lifesaving efforts.

At the heart of the event, the organization featured Dr. Zevi Neuwirth, a Miami physician who volunteers with the organization during international crises. He conducted dozens of black-ops rescue missions inside Ukraine, over the first two months of the Russia-Ukraine war, as part of the organization’s relief efforts.

The event was chaired by supporter Alex Blavatnik, who flew in especially to support Hatazalah’s efforts in Israel and Ukraine. He was honored by the President and Founder of United Hatzalah, Eli Beer, as well as Chairman, Mark Gerson. Also honored were Cathy and Allan Weiss and Chantal and Al Gindi, for their continued support of Israel and the emergency services organization.

Al Gindi is a third-generation donor to many Jewish causes, both in the US and in Israel, among them is United Hatzalah. “I am grateful to have learned everything from the most amazing role models, my father Raymond Gindi, Uncle Isaac “IG” Gindi, and my grandfather Al Gindi A”H, the patriarch of our family. They taught me the importance of steadfastly upholding Jewish values, such as integrity, humility, and generosity,” AI said.

Eli Beer spoke about the qualities that he respects so much in Chantal, Al, and their family: charity, integrity, love, and kindness. “Most people give either annually, or only after their businesses make a profit. Chantal and Al take a different approach. They created a unique and thoughtful tradition. They make a donation whenever they close a new business deal, before any profits are realized, and they have encouraged their family and friends to give back to both their community and to Israel, as well. I can say that many lives have been saved because of their efforts and generous donations. They are a shining light in the Syrian community of New York.”

The event marked the third time that such a gala has been hosted in New York by Friends of United Hatzalah, and the first time since COVID began.

Beer concluded, “The Gindi family, as well as other members of the Syrian community who came out tonight, supported our efforts in Operation Orange Wings, which we undertook to provide humanitarian aid and medical care for refugees in Ukraine and Moldova. They even flew nearly 3,000 refugees to Israel. Now, they are here showing their support once again and donating to help us continue our work saving lives in Israel. I am grateful that we had the opportunity to honor Chantal and Al at this event, and I am simply in awe of how caring a community this truly is. Thank you.”

Raphael Poch is a volunteer EMT with United Hatzalah. He is the team leader for the Efrat region. In addition to his volunteer work, he serves as the International Media Spokesperson. He lives in the city of Efrat with his wife and two children and originally hails from Toronto, Canada.

THE ALBERTA & RONNY WEINISCH SENIOR PROGRAM

ON MONDAY, JUNE 13TH, OVER 150 PEOPLE ENJOYED A BEAUTIFUL AND SENTIMENTAL EVENT CELEBRATING THE NAMING OF THE ALBERTA AND RONNY WEINISCH DSN SENIORS PROGRAM. THE WEINISCH’S CHILDREN WERE SEARCHING FOR A WAY TO MEMORIALIZE THEIR PARENTS, AND REALIZED THAT THE MOST APPROPRIATE WAY TO DO THIS WAS TO NAME DSN’S SENIORS PROGRAM IN THEIR MEMORY.

The Weinisch family, friends and a robust showing of community seniors filled the DSN gymnasium, which was transformed into a beautiful venue for an event with a catered lunch. DSN’s Executive Director Sammy Sitt opened the program welcoming all of the guests. He explained that “the seniors program is emblematic of all that DSN stands for: keeping people of all ages active and healthy, while allowing our community to socialize and stay together.”

Next, Fitness Director Sharon Carlstrom recalled how, in the summer of 2016, the program began with only exercise, but has since expanded to include many activities, and even a gourmet lunch. “My favorite part is that the seniors always know all the lyrics to songs from the 40s and 50s. It is undoubtedly the most fun class that I teach!”

Stephanie Massry and Vicky Schreiber, directors of the seniors program, worked tirelessly organizing the day. “We love being here every day and get just as much happiness as the seniors do!”

Next came a slide show of Alberta and Ronny through their years, shown on DSN’s jumbotron, which was followed by words from family members. Selma Cohen, Alberta’s sister who is an active member of DSN’s seniors program, described how much the program gave to her sister and how important the program is to the community. Granddaughter, Alberta Waingort-Sutton, spoke about how generous her grandparents were, and how they set an example by always doing things together. Son-in-law Marty Waingort spoke about his memories and how important the program is for the community.

Son-in-law Hymie Azar was the final speaker of the day and he explained how his in-laws, during their healthy years, “loved being together, playing golf together and shopping together.” He continued, “But two months before we lost my father-in-law, my mother-in-law completely shut down, as if not to face the reality of what was about to happen. After he passed, my mother-in-law, the person we knew for so many years, was nowhere to be found. She completely checked out.” He then revealed that, “There was one exception, and that was this amazing DSN seniors program. It was a godsend. This great place with these great people, great volunteers, and great other seniors found a way to reach her. For that, this place will always be in our family’s debt.” Hymie concluded, “G-d bless all of you involved in this program, for doing the hard work, keeping our most precious assets engaged, interactive and enjoying the most precious time of their lives.”

The décor of the event was gorgeous. There were beautifully decorated tables and exquisite flowers from Garden to Table by Andree Braha and Fortune Farca. Photographer, Lily Ades, was on hand to capture the memories, and the lunch was catered by Grace Sitt.

Singer Shlomo Haviv entertained the crowd with lively Israeli and American music. The seniors rose from their chairs, dancing and moving to the beats. Smiles were everywhere. Barbara Rahmey, a daughter of one of the seniors, summarized the sentiment shared by all, “My mother loved it today! She did the exercise and enjoyed the lunch and seeing so many of her friends and family. DSN’s team is really making our seniors so happy. Tizku Le mitzvot! Thank you DSN!”

IN MEMORY OF LOU & RUTH JEROME A”H

SARINA ROFFÉ

IF YOU HAVE EVER HAD A LOVED ONE IN THE HOSPITAL WITH AN ILLNESS, YOU KNOW HOW TRAUMATIC AND LIFE-ALTERING IT CAN BE. A FAMILY’S WHOLE WORLD CAN BE TURNED UPSIDE DOWN. THEY SPEND DAYS IN THE HOSPITAL BY THE BEDSIDE OF THE ONE THEY LOVE, LISTENING TO DOCTORS OR NURSES TRANSMITTING COMPLEX MEDICAL INFORMATION AND OPTIONS.

The family often has to make life and death decisions, and it’s not unusual for them to sleep in the hospital each night, as well. All of this can leave many families feeling overwhelmed and lost, especially when there’s a need for support which hospitals are not equipped to provide.

Stepping in to fill that need, in over 20 hospitals throughout the metro NY region, is Chesed 24/7. Yes, that’s the name of the organization, and true to its name, it operates 24/7 to help both patients and their overwhelmed families throughout their entire hospital stay, night and day. Chesed 24/7 has dedicated hospitality rooms, which are there for Jewish families regardless of their level of observance or religious affiliation. They’re open around the clock, 365 days a year, providing hot kosher meals, sandwiches, and snacks, Shabbat meals and services, siddurim, Tehillim, refrigerators, microwaves and more. The rooms serve as de facto places to recharge, and to find support from other people going through similar struggles, from a broad range of Jewish backgrounds and often from around the world. They also offer sleeping accommodations within walking distance of hospitals for those who need them, and patient liaisons who know how to help families navigate the challenging hospital systems. Their legendary patient liaison at Mt. Sinai Hospital, Mrs. Sima Bacharach, has helped many families from our community surmount the most challenging circumstances.

This tradition of giving, of being there for whomever needs support, and helping in any way they can, was embodied in the Jerome family for generations. Joey Jerome, remembering his parents Lou and Ruth Jerome A”H, owners of the famous Lou’s Deli on Kings Highway near East 2nd Street, said that while they were not wealthy people, they took care of people, providing food, jobs, and a surrogate home away from home, for many individuals and families.

Delicatessens ran through Lou’s blood, as his father owned a deli as well. When Lou’s opened in 1960, everyone in Ruth’s extended Missry family came to help. They filled ketchup and mustard bottles, set up chairs and tables, helped with meal preparation, and more. Together, Ruth and Lou worked side-by-side, almost 24/7, from the early morning lunch preparation, to the late-night, after-dinner clean up.

Ruth and Lou Jerome learned early on that if they couldn’t afford to donate a lot of money, they could feed people. There was a homey warmth to the deli that many community members called their second home.

Chesed was steeped in the Jerome family. Lou’s father Abraham fed anyone who came into his deli hungry, regardless of whether they could pay for a meal. He also reached out to people who needed food but didn’t come to the deli, by delivering sandwiches, soups, and other items to them unsolicited. It was in the Jerome blood to want to help those in need. He didn’t want any recognition or attention given to him for this. He simply wanted to help.

“My father wouldn’t stop anyone from ordering and eating, if they didn’t have money to pay,” said Abe Jerome. “He would take the check and write their information on the back. Most of the time people would come back, or their parents would come in and settle the bill, but not all the time. In his top drawer at home, he had an envelope filled with all the checks from people who never paid their balances—from opening day until the day they closed—but he never asked for payment.”

According to their daughter, Esther Haber, “If someone in the community was sick, my father would send them chicken soup. And my parents hired everyone who needed a job. Many of my cousins worked there, as well as many newcomers.”

“Often someone might come into the deli, and if my mother knew the family was struggling, the check would somehow disappear,” said Esther. “Or if she saw a student couldn’t scrape up the money for the bill, she would say, ‘don’t worry, I’ll get you next time.’ She never wanted someone to feel uncomfortable at the restaurant. My parents were very generous that way, even if they didn’t have a lot, they had a kind and giving nature.”

It is in their parents’ honor that Joe and Ester Jerome are hosting this year’s 6th Annual Chesed 24/7 Deal Summer Event. When Ruth was in the hospital at Cornell, the Chesed 24/7 hospitality room provided her three children and their families with a haven filled with kosher food and snacks, while she was getting much needed care. When Lou was ill and hospitalized in Columbia Presbyterian, the Chesed 24/7 hospitality room in the Milstein Pavilion was their lifeline, providing kosher meals and everything needed for Shabbat.

Previous hosts of the annual event have been Ken and Lillian Cayre (2016); Chaby and Nicole Orfali (2017); Joseph and Victoria Sutton and the Sutton Family, in memory of Mr. Alfred Sutton A”H (2018); David and Monique Haddad (2019); Tunie Missry and Family, in memory of Eddie Missry A”H (2020); and Morris and Linda Missry, in memory of Mrs. Priscilla Sutton A”H (2021).

In 2013, Jack Gindi A”H spent a significant amount of time in New York Cornell Hospital undergoing treatments. He did not have much of an appetite, so when he requested ice cream late one evening, his family went on a desperate search for some. It was 2 A.M., the cafeteria was closed, and the vending machines were sold out. When his family found the Chesed 24/7 hospitality room, they found more than just the ice cream Jack wanted—they found a home.

“That hospitality room was an oasis in the desert. It was a place where I knew what it meant to be a Jew anywhere in the world,” said his wife, Debbi. “It offered the comfort of home.” Debbi and her children generously sponsored the Jack M. Gindi Chesed 24/7 Hospitality Room in Cornell Hospital as a zechut for Jack. Several years later, she and her siblings sponsored the Pauline and Maurice R. Cohen Chesed 24/7 Hospitality Room in Memorial Sloan Kettering Hospital, in memory of their father.

Chesed 24/7 has 18 similar Chesed Rooms located in hospitals throughout the New York Tristate area. Each room contains a refrigerator fully stocked with fresh food, two microwaves, chairs and a table to eat on, a Shabbat food warmer, a hot water urn, cabinets filled with paper goods, cell phone chargers, prayer books and anything else that can make a hospital stay bearable for a Jewish family. The Chesed 24/7 Rooms provide an incredible source of comfort—even when you might not think you need it, but especially when you do.

Every week, Chesed 24/7 volunteers deliver families a Shabbat in a Box, complete with electric candles to light for Shabbat, Kiddush, as well as other items needed to bring in the Sabbath and food to eat.

Rabbi Eli Mansour, upon the opening of the Chesed 24/7 Hospitality Room at Columbia Children’s Hospital in 2017, spearheaded by Ken Cayre and Harry Adjmi, praised the work of Chesed 24/7. “When one visits a sick person in the hospital, usually the one in the bed gets the attention,” he noted. “But the family members are also sick. The spouse, the children, the parents, the siblings, they are not sick enough that they require medicine, but they are drained physically and they are drained emotionally. Chesed 24/7 takes care of them too. Chesed 24/7 takes care of everybody, and this is the perfect and purest way to fulfill the mitzvah of bikur cholim.”

Chesed 24/7 has seven areas in which they provide assistance to families with someone in the hospital.

Food and Respite: Chesed 24/7 Hospitality Rooms: located on-site at more than 20 hospitals are oases of refuge in a time of challenging illness, a place to receive support from others undergoing similar issues.

Shabbat Services: Chesed 24/7 provides Shabbat meals, sleeping accommodations within walking distance of hospitals, and Shabbat religious needs for families, caregivers and friends who spend Shabbat and Jewish holidays assisting in the care of a hospital patient.

Shabbat Meals: Chesed 24/7 stocks each hospitality room with hot meals for patients/family who arrive at the hospital unexpectedly on Shabbat or the Jewish holidays. Passover Seders are prepared as well. Meals can also be ordered from Chesed 24/7 and delivered to the patient’s hospital room.

Sleeping Accommodations: Chesed 24/7 provides sleeping accommodation in apartments located within walking distance of the New York Presbyterian—Columbia University campus, at Mt. Sinai Hospital, at Weil Cornel and at NYP Queens. Additional accommodations are planned to respond to growing need.

Lou Jerome A”H was in the US Navy during World War II and was so proud to have served his country, and later, his community. The Jerome family continues in their parents’ footsteps, supporting many charitable causes, and so many people in need. Chesed 24/7 is honored to remember Lou and Ruth Jerome A”H, whose love and care for the community lives on.

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

HIS LIFE, HIS LEGACY

SARINA ROFFÉ

CHARLIE SAKA A”H WAS A VISIONARY WHOSE DREAMS AND ASPIRATIONS WERE GUIDED BY TWO THINGS: FAMILY AND COMMUNITY. HIS GOALS IN LIFE WERE SIMPLE: TO HELP, TO BUILD, TO GIVE AND TO INSPIRE. WHEN HE PASSED AWAY ON APRIL 22, 2022, THE ENTIRE COMMUNITY MOURNED HIS LOSS, KNOWING THAT THERE WAS NO ONE WHO COULD ADEQUATELY FILL THE SHOES OF YESHAYA BEN LAURA, MR. CHARLIE SAKA.

Charlie’s mother, Laura Saka, had been advised against having children due to her weak heart, but chose to have a child anyway, and her husband Sam agreed. It was almost as if the young couple knew their child’s destiny, and could not deny him his chance. Charlie was born July 30, 1941.

Nearly nine years later, Laura passed away, leaving Charlie to be raised by his father, with the help of a large extended family, including his grandparents, David and Jamileh Didia, as well as his many aunts and uncles. This team effort clearly put family at the forefront of Charlie’s priorities. For the rest of his life he would always keep family first, and help out any family member who needed him.

In November 1950, Charlie was seriously injured when he was hit by a car, while playing with his friends on the streets of Bensonhurst. Charlie survived multiple broken bones and six days in a coma, eventually making a full recovery. The odds were stacked against his survival, yet he triumphed. This fighting spirit was part of Charlie’s makeup. He used that spirit to get things done throughout his life, no matter the obstacles.

Charlie’s father, Sam Saka, married Mary Minyan in 1952, and from the beginning, she treated Charlie as her own son. The couple’s four children, Charlie’s younger siblings, had no idea during their youth that Charlie was not Mary’s biological child. Her commitment and wholehearted support taught Charlie the importance of making others feel important and valued. He learned never to let anyone in need feel helpless. This type of hesed was the foundation on which Charlie built his life.

At the young age of 12, Charlie got his first job as a bicycle delivery boy for Dilbert’s on Bay Parkway, working for tips. Working at such a young age ingrained in him the principle that one must always make his own opportunities. Things do not just come without effort. Charlie always had a vision of success in business and he had already begun to see it through.

In 1961, when Charlie was 20, he and his father opened 1581 Gift Shop, in Manhattan. Charlie persevered through the hard work and long hours because he understood that he was laying the foundations for his future.

Charlie would have been first to admit that he could not have accomplished all the things he did in his life without his wife Brenda. All of his projects were hers as well, and he was bolstered by the continued support she gave him. From his business to his religious observance, to his family, Brenda was with him wholeheartedly. Nowhere is Brenda’s support more evident than in Charlie’s crowning achievement—the building and expansion of Magen David of West Deal, including the Torah Center named in their honor, the Joe and Eileen Sutton and family Sephardic Social Center and the Gladys Kassin Mikveh.

Brenda and Charlie were introduced in the summer of 1964, by their mutual friend, Alfred Esses. On their first date, the couple got lost looking for their destination. This is somewhat ironic, since they were a couple whose direction in life for every moment afterwards was clear and unwavering.

After about a dozen years of marriage, two pivotal changes occurred. The first came in 1977 when, despite the success of his retail business, Charlie decided to begin a wholesale company. He knew that this would give him more time to spend with his wife and children, and allow him to be more religiously observant.

Charlie’s best friend Mickey Abraham helped him make the transition from retail to wholesale, and Sakar International was born. Over the years, this company developed a global presence by incorporating new technology to produce on-trend, cutting-edge products. Sakar owns and licenses many entertainment and corporate brands, and maintains a diverse portfolio of products. All of this success is a testament to Charlie’s leadership, but he did not do it alone. Charlie established Sakar as a family company almost from the start, when he partnered with his brother, Allen. Then, as soon as they were old enough, Charlie’s children joined the company, working with the enthusiasm and commitment that their father expected. One of the most important guiding principles at Sakar is respect. Charlie treated everyone with respect, from the janitor to the biggest customer.

The second pivotal change happened in 1978, when Charlie and Brenda moved their family to the West Deal neighborhood of the Jersey Shore. It was this move that set Charlie on the trajectory to become “a builder of the community.”

Joe Betesh A”H, one of the founders of the shul next door to the Sakas’ new home, recruited Charlie to join the synagogue committee. Charlie had never volunteered for anything before, yet he rose to the occasion and found success in fundraising, but also in making decisions and getting things done.

By being involved in the shul, Charlie had the privilege of becoming close to one of his strongest mentors, Rabbi Ezra Labaton A”H. Hired in 1982, he and his wife Emily helped bring the blossoming community together. The Rabbi taught Charlie the concepts of Tikkun Olam, making the world a better place, and Tzelem Elokim, recognizing Hashem’s presence in everyone. The Rabbi’s passion impacted the Sakas’ lives in numerous ways.

“The Rabbi had an intelligence that compelled people of all ages and backgrounds to gravitate towards him,” said Sammy Saka. “His Saturday morning speeches, over the thirty years in which he served as rabbi, were inspirational and we were all impacted by those speeches.” It was Rabbi Labaton’s influence that got Charlie and his sons involved in Torah learning, which has had a lasting effect on all of the Sakas.

After Rabbi Labaton passed away, Rabbi Shaul J. Kassin, the new rabbi of the shul, became one of Charlie’s greatest friends and inspirations. Rabbi Kassin also admired the things Charlie could get done. “People knew that if Charlie was involved in a project, it was a good cause and would get completed, so they donated. He had an uncanny ability to raise money, and it would get done especially quickly, without delay. Once Charlie had an idea, it was in motion the next day,” said Rabbi Shaul Kassin. “He looked to see what was lacking. Then he dreamed it, wrote it up and built it.”

The fulfillment of Charlie Saka’s visions are all over the community. Aside from spearheading the building of the shul, Charlie was instrumental in adding to the property, assisting with each addition so that the community’s needs would be served. He pushed for a large social hall, and later its expansion, so there would be a beautiful place with room for the community’s special occasions. He took a leadership role in building the expanded midrash and Torah Center so that the growing shul would have more places to pray and to learn. When the Social Center, which had been built for parties and for the seniors was destroyed by fire, Charlie was not discouraged. He took it as a sign that it needed to be rebuilt “bigger and better.” He saw to it that the building was expanded to accommodate even more. When Charlie saw that the West Deal community needed a mikveh, he and Brenda took on the project and created a spa-like building that allows women to fulfill the important mitzvah of family purity. Since the complex has expanded and there is so much activity, a house on the property is made available for the caretakers, visiting guests and rabbis to stay.

Charlie helped support Hillel Yeshiva, assisted in building the DSN Community Center, and helped create the Saka Edition of Yalkut Yosef, an English translation of Sephardic halakha. Today, Batei Midrash all over the world house these books.

In each of his endeavors, Brenda was at Charlie’s side, helping and supporting, and doing the work people take for granted, such as shopping for groceries for the shul, and arranging the hanging of plaques.

It was not only at home in New Jersey that Charlie and Brenda’s graciousness was felt. It could be felt in other places when they traveled for business. Whether to New Orleans or Hong Kong, they always brought enough food to feed others. In Las Vegas, they sponsored minyanim and sebets to accommodate the businessmen and friends who were there. At first, Brenda would bring food from home and heat it up in her room, but eventually, since so many people attended, Charlie and Brenda had the meals catered, always wishing to make everyone as comfortable as possible.

Charlie’s contributions even affected those outside the community. Weeks after Charlie’s passing, in a touching ceremony attended by Charlie’s family, friends and town council members, the mayor of Ocean Township dedicated the street leading to the Magen David Synagogue complex in Charlie’s memory. It is now “Charlie Saka Way.”

Charlie built a successful business and gave from his heart to help the community, but he was always focused on his family. He and Brenda raised their children to follow in their footsteps. All of their children are community leaders, a testament to how effective it is to lead by example.

Sammy has been leading Hillel Yeshiva for two decades, supporting every facet of the school from education to expansion. During his tenure its enrollment has grown to 1,200 students. Raymond is dedicated to ensuring the success of the shul. He fundraises, advises, innovates, and recruits others to get involved, ensuring that Magen David of West Deal can effectively and positively serve the community. Jeffrey is Chairman, and one of the founders of the DSN Community Center, which is the heart and soul of social activity in the Deal area. Everyone is looking forward to the opening of the DSN Beach Club later this year. Laurie (Saka) Mizrachi is Chair of Sephardic Bikur Holim’s New Jersey branch rejuvenating the organization and propelling it into the future. Sally (Saka) Cohen studies the community’s past, and as Director of Sephardic Heritage in Hillel Yeshiva, is active in bringing the community’s history to the next generation.

When Charlie Saka passed away, he left a legacy to his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren of which they can all feel proud. He accomplished so much because he dreamed big, but more importantly, because he turned his dreams into visions, and his visions into reality.

A genealogist and historian, Sarina Roffé is the author of Branching Out from Sepharad. She is president of the Sephardic Heritage Project, Co-Chair of the Brooklyn Jewish Historical Initiative and Chair of the Sephardic Research Division of JewishGen. Editor of the journal Dorot, Sarina holds a BA in Journalism, and MA in Jewish Studies and an MBA.

ONE YEAR AFTER HIS PASSING

HADASSAH BAY

IT IS DIFFICULT TO BELIEVE THAT A YEAR HAS GONE BY SINCE THE PASSING OF DR. ELI SCHUSSHEIM. FOR THOSE WHO WERE CLOSE TO HIM, THE FACT THAT THIS DYNAMIC, DRIVEN ISH ESHKOLOT (RENAISSANCE MAN) IS NO LONGER WITH US CONTINUES TO BE A SOURCE OF GRIEF AND BEWILDERMENT. HE WAS SO FULL OF LIFE—AND IN FACT, “LIFE” WAS HIS ENTIRE MISSION.

This is the man whom Maran Harav Ovadia Yosef zt’l affectionately called Borei Nefashot Rabot for his all-consuming work to save Jewish babies—a task that he excelled in tremendously. Incredibly, close to 81,000 Jews are alive today thanks to his intervention, and as EFRAT Executive Director Nir Salomon pointed out, “Those are the ones we know about. Not a day goes by without a phone call to our offices from a woman who tells us that she refrained from terminating her pregnancy due to a lecture or video of Dr. Schussheim that she saw in the past. Without a doubt, Dr. Schussheim’s influence extended far beyond the parameters that we’re aware of.”

Dr. Schussheim maximized every minute during his time in This World. He was a doctor with a private practice; he served as physician at the Jewish Institute for the Blind and was a board member; he supervised mohelim for the Israeli Ministry of Religious Affairs, he established the Neve Simcha home for seniors in Jerusalem, he authored medical reports for the State Comptroller, and he served as a medical consultant for numerous organizations. His crowning achievement, however, was his work as the founder and director of EFRAT.

The initial version of the organization was the brainchild of Hershel Feigenbaum, a Holocaust survivor who lost almost his entire family in the death camps. After settling in Israel, he established The Right to Live organization to encourage childbirth and fill the void left by the 1.5 million Jewish children murdered in the Holocaust. In the late 70s, Dr. Schussheim took over the organization, drawing on his medical experience and tremendous energy to move it forward and save more and more lives.

Over the years, as the social climate became increasingly permissive, Dr. Schussheim never focused on an anti-abortion platform, but on one of saving lives, and by extrapolation, rehabilitating families.

Statistics show that financial distress is the cause of the majority of cases in which women feel compelled to have an abortion. This is the source of Dr. Schussheim’s rallying cry: “You don’t end a life for lack of funds!”

Dr. Schussheim lectured all over the world. “My mission is to show women that they have a choice,” was a constant refrain. From his experience dealing with pregnant women in distress, he learned that the vast majority truly believed that they were trapped in a tragic situation where no choice existed. Moreover, most were pitifully unaware of the ramifications of abortion—medical, physical, and emotional.

The rationale at EFRAT is that pregnant women have the right to receive information relating to all aspects of their physical and emotional health.

Whenever women who were considering abortion came to his office, Dr. Schussheim put all the facts on the table. “Most of the physical complications are treatable,” he said. “However, the emotional fallout, in the form of regret, can be life-long and devastating.”

Ruthy Tidhar, Efrat’s head social worker, shared the organization’s fundamental policy. “We will never try to sway women one way or another with arguments based on ideological, moral, or religious grounds. Rather, our goal is to empower them through information and assistance, so that they can make the best decision for themselves. Women who come to us feel trapped. We show them that other options exist.”

Dr. Schussheim was a well-loved figure in Jerusalem, and enjoyed a close relationship with over 40 Gedolei Yisrael, past and present, for whom he served as their personal physician, including the Belzer Rebbe, shlita, and lbc”l, Maran Harav Ovadia Yosef, Rav Yitzchak Kadouri, Rav Shlomo Zalman Auerbach, successive Rebbes of Gur, the Slonimer Rebbe, the Lelover Rebbe, Rav Eliezer Waldenberg, Rav Yosef Shalom Elyashiv, Rav Moshe Halberstam, Rav Mordechai Eliyahu, and the Gaavad of the Eidah Hachareidit, Zecher tzaddikim livrachah., and more.

Since Dr. Shussheim’s passing, EFRAT has been continuing his legacy, stepping up activities and reaching out to supporters across the globe. Before Pesach, EFRAT representatives visited the Syrian community in Brooklyn and spoke in many of the local shuls to raise awareness and seek their ongoing support. One of the keynote speakers was head of EFRAT in Mexico, Ariel Cohen, a close friend of Dr. Schussheim, and also, a long-standing donor and volunteer at EFRAT in his own right. Cohen was accompanied by Hatzalah Chairman Moshe Teitelbaum, a board member of EFRAT, as well as by Nir Salomon. Joey and Lucy Aini, Joe Nakash, and Joey Levy were instrumental in recruiting the community, which responded enthusiastically.

Community rabbanim who had been in close contact with Dr. Schussheim for many years, spoke highly of the activities of EFRAT and of Dr. Schussheim’s mission, committing to continue providing encouragement and tangible support. Rabbi Mansour said about the Dr. “He was a man with a mission. The only thing greater than his accomplishments was his humility. To save a soul is to save a world. He has saved tens of thousands of worlds.”

Hadassah Bay is a freelance writer. Her articles have been published in many Jewish media outlets.

A CLEAR GUIDE TO YOUR OPTIONS, INCLUDING HOW TO AVOID A SURPRISE TAX BILL OR IRS PENALTIES

ARI BAUM, CFP®

WHEN YOU LEAVE AN EMPLOYER (WHETHER YOU’RE CHANGING JOBS OR RETIRING), YOUR RETIREMENT PLAN DOESN’T AUTOMATICALLY MOVE WITH YOU. YOU HAVE TO MAKE A CRITICAL DECISION (OR RISK HAVING THAT DECISION MADE FOR YOU IN A WAY THAT’S BETTER FOR THE COMPANY OR COSTS YOU MONEY).

Your employer plan is one of your most valuable retirement assets and deciding where it should go next is a decision with plenty of nuances, pitfalls, and opportunities. Handle it the right way, and you’ve protected your money’s tax-deferred growth and are in an optimal position for your current and future goals. Handle it the wrong way, and you’ve given yourself a surprise tax bill, exposed yourself to potential IRS penalties, or robbed yourself of potential future wealth.

If you fall into any of these categories:
• I left my old company and I need to figure out what to do with my old plan.
• I’ve got “zombie” plans sitting around and I’ve got questions about what I should do with them.
• I’m at or nearing retirement and I need to figure out how to turn my retirement plan into income.

You’re in the right place. After you’ve read this guide, you’ll have all the information you need to decide which strategy makes the most sense for your old retirement plan and know how to take the next steps that are right for you.

If you’re at or approaching retirement age, you’ve got more to consider than just where to move your old plan. You’ll need to decide where your income is coming from, choose when to claim Social Security and Medicare, determine the right order to draw down your accounts, and much more.

OPTION 1: DON’T TOUCH A THING
If your employer’s plan allows it, you may be able to leave your account where it is, though you won’t be able to continue making contributions to it. However, you’ll be stuck dealing with whatever limited service is offered to ex-employees.

PROS
• If you retire after age 55, you may not owe a 10% tax penalty on withdrawals.
• If you own considerable company stock, you might qualify for a favorable tax break (called Net Unrealized Appreciation).
• You may have access to plan loans. You may qualify for federal creditor protection.

CONS
• You may end up with a trail of old accounts gathering dust.
• Not all employers will allow you to leave your plan. (It may depend on the size of the balance.)
• Plan fees may increase without your knowledge.
• You may have limited withdrawal options.
• Investment options are limited to the standard options currently offered to employees.
• Your investments may not be optimized for taxes or your overall financial goals.
How to Execute: Contact your previous plan administrator and ask to leave the plan in place.

OPTION 2: MOVE IT TO YOUR NEW EMPLOYER
If you’re still working, a new employer might allow you to simply transfer your old account balance to the plan they offer their employees. Not all employers allow you to do it, but it’s worth asking about.

PROS
• You’ll have your employer plans in one place.
• You won’t pay taxes on the distribution if you transfer directly.
• You’ll have the protections and benefits of the current plan.

CONS
• Your new employer may not allow you to transfer your old account.
• You’ll be limited to the investment options offered by the new plan.
• Many employers will require you to wait to become eligible to enroll in the new plan.
How to Execute: Contact the HR department at your new employer and ask them to put you in touch with the plan administrator. If the transfer is possible, they’ll give you instructions on how to complete the move.

OPTION 3: RAID THE PIGGY BANK (CASH IT OUT)
You have the right to cash out your old employer plan and take a check. This is probably your worst move because the financial repercussions are serious (and permanent).

PROS
• You’ll get immediate cash.

CONS
• You’ll owe income taxes on the account value.
• Your employer may automatically withhold 20% for taxes.
• You’ll owe penalties if you’re under age 59½ (unless you qualify for an exemption).
• You’ll do permanent damage to your long-term goals.
How to Execute: Contact your previous plan administrator and ask him to liquidate the account and send you a check.

OPTION 4: THE NOT-SO-SIMPLE INDIRECT IRA ROLLOVER
Indirect IRA Rollover
You have the option to take a check from your old plan and roll it over into an IRA within 60 days. Some people like the idea of having a free 60 day loan, but indirect rollovers are fraught with potential (and expensive) mistakes.

PROS
• You’ll get immediate access to the cash for 60 days.
• When the rollover is completed, you’ll get the benefits of an IRA, including access to many investment options, tax optimization strategies (including Roth conversions, backdoor Roth IRAs, etc.), and investment optimization for your overall financial picture.

CONS
• You have to manually take the check and remember to deposit it into your IRA.
• Indirect rollovers get reported to the IRS.
• If you fail to roll the funds over within 60 days, you may owe taxes and potential penalties.
• You risk making your retirement funds fully taxable forever.
•You risk losing out on any market gains that happen within your rollover window.
• Your employer may automatically withhold 20% for taxes (and you’ll have to make up the amount from other funds).
•Your new IRA might have higher fees than the old plan.
• While you may be allowed to take penalty-free withdrawals from an employer plan after age 55, you typically can’t withdraw penalty-free from an IRA until age 59½.
• Typically, assets in an employer retirement plan have greater protection from creditors than assets held in an IRA.
• Once you reach age 72, you’ll need to take Required Minimum Distributions (RMDs) from both employer plans and IRAs. However, if you continue to work past age 72, you generally aren’t required to take RMDs from your current employer’s plan.
How to Execute: Contact your previous plan administrator and ask him to liquidate the account and send you a check. You’ll have to send the check to your new IRA custodian (and have it deposited) within 60 days, unless you qualify for a limited exemption to the 60 day rule.

OPTION 5: DIRECT ROLLOVER TO AN IRA
Directly rolling over your account assets to an IRA is a seamless process that avoids all the limits placed on rollovers by the IRS. It gives you all the benefits of your own, personalized IRA without the pitfalls of an indirect rollover.

PROS
You’ll get the benefits of an IRA, including:
• Access to many investment options
• Tax optimization strategies (including Roth conversions, backdoor Roth IRAs, etc.)
• Investment optimization for your overall financial picture.
• You’ll avoid all potential IRS penalties by never taking “custody” of the money.
• You won’t owe taxes on the transfer.
• Your employer won’t withhold any amount from the balance for taxes.

CONS
• You’ll have to do some paperwork.
• Your new IRA might have higher fees than the old plan.
• While you may be allowed to take penalty-free withdrawals from an employer plan after age 55, you typically can’t withdraw penalty-free from an IRA until age 59½.
• Typically, assets in an employer retirement plan have greater protection from creditors than assets held in an IRA.
• Once you reach age 72, you’ll need to take Required Minimum Distributions (RMDs) from both employer plans and IRAs. However, if you continue to work past age 72, you generally aren’t required to take RMDs from your current employer’s plan.
How to Execute: Contact your previous plan administrator and ask him for a “direct rollover” to your IRA. He’ll give you the next steps you need to take.

How to Execute: Contact your previous plan administrator and ask him for a “direct rollover” to your IRA. He’ll give you the next steps you need to take.

The #1 mistake I see people make with their most important retirement asset—doing nothing at all.

Mistakes with old employer plans are common and can be very costly. They are also easily avoidable if you know exactly what to do. If you’re not 100% confident in your next steps, you don’t need to go it alone, contact a financial professional.

Risk Disclosure: Investing involves risk including the potential loss of principal. No investment strategy can guarantee a profit or protect against loss in periods of declining values. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
This material is for information purposes only and is not intended as an offer or solicitation with respect to the purchase or sale of any security. The content is developed from sources believed to be providing accurate information; no warranty, expressed or implied, is made regarding accuracy, adequacy, completeness, legality, reliability, or usefulness of any information. Consult your financial professional before making any investment decision. For illustrative use only.

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

LAST MONTH, PROPEL HOSTED ITS THIRD GRADUATION AT THE CENTER. THE GRADUATION CELEBRATION SHOWCASED PROPEL’S ACCOMPLISH- MENTS THROUGH THE ACHIEVEMENTS OF CLIENTS WHO HAVE COMPLETED THEIR CERTIFICATED OR EDUCATIONAL PROGRAMS AND ARE NOW WORKFORCE-READY.

The event began with the traditional graduation march down the aisle to the strains of Pomp and Circumstance. The graduates, adorned in their graduation sashes, along with their coaches, Ellen Ades and Gitta Neufeld, entered the room filled with family and friends. Among the guests were PROPEL’s proud Board Members, President Dr. Gayle Krost, Michael Haddad, Jacqueline Harary, Elaine Parker, and Gitta Kaplan. In addition, many of the mentors from PROPEL’s “Weaving a Network: Women Helping Women,” our signature UJA-supported program, were in the audience applauding the accomplishments of the PROPEL graduates.

PROPEL’s Co-Executive Directors Randi Eisenstein and Alissa Shams, and Director of Operations Viviane Darwish, welcomed the guests, and praised the graduates for all of their successes. They also thanked all those community members who support PROPEL and its mission to inspire, train and educate women to enter the workforce. It was most appropriate that the graduation took place at the onset of Lag La Omer, a time when we resume public celebrations.

Dr. Gayle Krost expressed her heartfelt congratulations to the graduates and shared some exciting updates about the organization. Over the last six years, PROPEL has coached over 800 women, graduated over 200, and currently assists over 50 women in graduate school.

Ellen Ades, PROPEL’s Career Coach, proudly introduced Michelle Saad, who inspired the audience with her personal story and accomplishments in the workforce. Michelle, a wife and mother of four, reached out to PROPEL several years ago to hone her professional skills. With Ellen’s guidance, Michelle began taking computer courses, and worked diligently gaining skills essential in today’s workplace. Michelle succeeded in building a career and is proud to be a role model to her children. The beautiful testimonial that Michelle included from her husband presented her as a heroine who tapped into her inner strengths as she re-entered the workforce, and PROPEL as the organization that helped her entire family move forward.

Gitta Neufeld, PROPEL’s Educational Consultant, shared her wonderful insight about Lag La Omer and proudly introduced Sally Baraka, a PROPEL Ed Touro graduate who is receiving a dual master’s degree in Jewish Education and Special Education. Sally is currently applying the skills she has acquired as a teacher at Yeshiva Prep. During the pandemic, Sally reached out to PROPEL, looking for guidance and crystallization of her strengths and experiences. Gitta helped Sally throughout her educational journey at Touro, and she continues to mentor Sally as she advances in her career.

The keynote speaker and awardee of the evening was none other than Shifra Hanon, a well-known educator at Yeshivah of Flatbush, and namesake of The Shifra Hanon Pathfinders program. In addition to her many heartfelt hesed endeavors, Shifra is very involved in PROPEL’s mentorship program in conjunction with UJA—Weaving a Network.

Evet Ballas, a PROPEL ambassador and entrepreneur extraordinaire (Light Lab Design), spoke effusively about the many fine character traits that Shifra possesses. The audience was touched when Evet relayed the kindness that she experienced firsthand in high school from Ms. Hanon, as a 14-year-old immigrant newly arrived in this country with limited English speaking skills.

Shifra, a woman of great humility, emotionally accepted the beautiful personalized Eshet Hayil plaque, whose words so befit her characteristics. Shifra was Evet’s mentor throughout her career, and they continue to maintain a beautiful and supportive relationship. In describing her beliefs about teaching and mentorship, Shifra quoted the poet Maya Angelou: “I’ve learned that people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.”

Shifra has used her energies and talents to support those around her, and make them feel like they can accomplish anything. She exemplifies mentorship and there is no better PROPEL role model to honor for this accomplishment. Shifra spoke volumes about her love of PROPEL and her continued role as both mentor and advisor to community members.

Most fitting was the establishment of the Shifra Hanon Scholarship Fund, and who better to announce that fund than Caroll Dweck Sutton, Shifra’s protégée and beloved colleague at Yeshivah of Flatbush. The funds collected will benefit PROPEL clients looking to pursue their professional dreams, and the fact that Shifra’s name is attached can only add an extra dimension of support.

The graduation concluded with the presentation of certificates by PROPEL’s Board members, and proved to be an incredibly proud moment for both PROPEL graduates and supporters alike. The song We Are The Champions rang loudly as the audience cheered during the closing montage, showcasing the accomplishments of the multi-faceted organization that is PROPEL.

Please reach out to PROPEL:
If you are interested in a career or career advice; PROPEL can help you take the steps to fulfill your professional goals and dreams.

If you are interested in joining PROPEL’s cohort of mentors in PROPEL’s “Weaving a Network: Women Helping Women” program or being paired with a mentor.

PROPEL 646-494-0822 | info@thepropelnetwork.org
Instagram @PropelNetwork

As the Jersey Shore community continues to grow, the need for support for all the children grows with it. The local schools are expanding, opening more classes and stretching to meet the needs of their students. Bridge Linx is there as a partner to help the schools make sure every child’s needs are being met by offering therapy services. Our team evaluates the student, determines goals for each child, and sets up an individual therapy plan to implement for success. We focus on improving delays and deficits in specific areas, helping to empower the students for continued growth and success.

Bridge Linx offers OT, PT, Speech and Language as well as Social Behavior therapy to school aged children. Therapies are offered in our facility as well as in the community schools. Bridge Linx works closely with parents and the school to ensure all goals are met. Many mainstream and bright students are challenged with specific deficits that need to be addressed in order to succeed and thrive. Following are examples of areas that therapy may cover.

SPEECH AND LANGUAGE
Much of the learning environment is dependent on good language skills. These would include being able to follow directions and to follow and comprehend an oral lesson. In addition, proper note taking, including understanding the main idea and supporting details as well as sequencing events, are important skills. Proper social interactions involve processing the environment and expectations as well as communicating appropriately and effectively. Speech and language therapy can help children struggling in these areas.

OCCUPATIONAL THERAPY (OT)
The way a child functions and completes his daily chores involves many OT skills, including dressing, manipulating toys and objects, copying from a board, handwriting, tracking with the eyes and coordination. Some other areas would be core strength and sensory processing. OT services can help a child function better in the classroom by improving these skills.

PHYSICAL THERAPY (PT)
Physical therapy targets gross motor movements. These would include balance and strength, coordination, safety awareness, and specific muscle strengthening and movement.

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

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

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

KELLY JEMAL MASSRY

SINCE 1996, GESHER YEHUDA, A COMMUNITY SCHOOL FOR CHILDREN WITH LANGUAGE-BASED LEARNING DIFFERENCES, HAS BEEN ENABLING STUDENTS TO FEEL SUCCESSFUL IN THEIR STUDIES. “THE ATTITUDE IS NOT ‘I CAN’T,’ BUT ‘I CAN,’” SAID GESHER YEHUDA PRINCIPAL, MRS. DEBORAH KATZ. “NOT ONLY IS IT: ‘I CAN, BUT ALSO HOW CAN I?’”

Established by Jack and Claude Setton, the school was founded upon the belief that with the right educational approach and the right therapies, even atypical learners can succeed. At Gesher, the stigma often associated with therapy has been banished completely. Services that are offered are seen as enriching and beneficial to students. The hope is that, with this extensive support in place, many of Gesher Yehuda’s current students can eventually be mainstreamed when it is in the best interest of the child. Most important is that when a child becomes fully integrated into a mainstream school his self-esteem has risen, he has learned new skills, and has developed a positive image about himself. “Building self-confidence inside a structured academic program is critical to our work,” said Executive Director, Dr. Eugene Miller. “Self confidence is essential to success in education as it is in life.”

Gesher Yehuda’s student population ranges from kindergarten through eighth grade. There is both a special ed teacher and an assistant teacher present in every classroom and a rotator for core components like reading, math and some Hebrew subjects. Instruction is group-based, with evaluators assessing every few weeks to determine whether students should go up or down in level. Smaller class sizes ensure that the focus remains on the whole child and that each individual’s needs are catered to. The curriculum is on par with the mainstream public schools but simplified so that students are grounded in foundational skills. While an abundance of therapies are available as needed, these services are never given while core subjects are being taught. Therapy is designed to enhance and support the academic program.

“We have the most wonderful team, with the most current curriculum, and the best services in the community,” said Gesher reading specialist Sheri Harari. At Gesher, reading specialists provide intervention in both Hebrew and English, using a variety of research-based, multisensory programs. There are also four speech therapists on premises, two occupational therapists, one physical therapist, one psychologist and one social worker. Speech therapy emphasizes language and expression. The occupational therapists conduct a program called Neuronet, where the students are directed in movement-based activities while being asked to follow instructions. In this way, the children’s comprehension is cemented kinesthetically. The psychologist deals with school-wide behavioral challenges, while the social worker sees each student individually. “Each child comes with different issues that need to be addressed,” said Sheri. “We really are a team here. All of the therapists work together really well. We are constantly bouncing ideas off of the educational administrators and collaborating together.”

This is all done for the benefit of the children—students who may struggle in other environments at Gesher find that their behavioral challenges dissipate because they have finally found a place where they belong. “The kids are so polite and respectful because they know what is expected of them,” said current principal Deborah Katz. Gesher’s standards can be summed up in the three C’s—Compliance, Completing Work and Courteous Speech. Comporting themselves well, they are told, is the first step to becoming an admirable student—a stature they are expected to exhibit both on school grounds and out in the world. To cement this lesson inside and outside of the classroom, students are routinely taken on field trips— excursions that invigorate their senses, like rock climbing and trampoline jumping—as a form of reward. “Two or three weeks of learning can take place in one day when you’re out of the classroom,” said Mrs. Katz, reinforcing just how valuable these trips are as a method of holistic learning. “The goal is to educate the kids and give them skills that they can take with them wherever they go.”

“Every staff member believes positively in the students’ futures,” said the school’s Administrative Director Shirley Mansour. “Gesher Yehuda is such a warm, beautiful, happy place to be. Anybody that walks in feels that we are a family here.” The vibe at Gesher and the feeling of connectedness that students experience is evident in the way they come back, often years later, to say thank you. “Former alumni have such fond memories and always stop by to say hello. They love us. Some of our alumni are now parents of kids in the school. They have become thriving adults, loving parents, and successful businessmen. To us, that is the true measure of success—how they turn out,” said Mrs. Mansour.

Prospective parents and supporters of the school are encouraged to come down and see Gesher for themselves. Those who visit will soon see that the model Gesher student is one with self-confidence. A Gesher Yehuda education is a way of giving children everything they need—academic rigor, love, support, guidance and most importantly belief in themselves.

Kelly Jemal Massry holds a B.A. from Barnard College, an MFA from Sarah Lawrence College and an Ms.Ed from Bank Street College. She is a writer, reading specialist and bookstore owner.

PLAY BALL

BARKAI YESHIVAH HELD ITS 2ND ANNUAL NAOMI HOULLOU A”H YOUTH BASEBALL TOURNAMENT IN EARLY MAY. IT WAS ORGANIZED BY BARKAI PARENT & BOARD OF TRUSTEES MEMBER STEVEN J. GINDI, AND 2ND THROUGH 5TH GRADE BOYS, THROUGHOUT THE COMMUNITY, WERE INVITED TO ENJOY A SPRING AFTERNOON PLAYING BASEBALL.

The day was planned for the children and parents to come together, spend time outdoors and have fun on the field. Participants were given jerseys and the goals of the day were simple—get the children excited and moving, bring the community together in a safe organized environment and raise money for an amazing yeshivah. With gratitude to our wonderful generous sponsors, the entire program was offered free of charge to participants who were able to contribute an optional donation.

The children filed into Gravesend Park with smiles on their faces eager to get onto the field. They greeted familiar faces, made new friends and listened to a few words from Mr. Gindi about the importance of sportsmanship and teamwork before getting started. Split into four teams, the boys sported their custom jerseys representing popular breakfast cereals—Cocoa Puffs, Fruit Loops, Cap’n Crunch and Frosted Flakes. Paired with strong parent coaches— Abie Azar, Jack Esses, Raymond Esses, Saulie Cohen and Michael Soloman—the teams worked together to encourage one another, help each other and have a good time. Spirits were high and smiles were all around during each game as sportsmanship was a key component to the success of the day.

The sounds of the batters making contact with the ball, catches being made by fielders and players encouraging one another were incredible. “The pitches and refs were good. It was fun to play and I hit a home run!” expressed one player.

To the action we go: Frosted Flakes coming in as the heavy favorite, were shell shocked by the stifling Loops defense in the semifinals. In the other matchup, the heavy underdog Cap’n’ Crunch bunch, nearly pulled the upset of the day. In the bottom of the last inning the Puffs walked it off sending squad coocoo heading into the finals.

Led by captain Marc Azar, the Loops defeated team Cocoa Puffs (who looked all puffed out), in a lopsided finale. Team Fruit Loops took home the glass championship trophies! Congratulations to the winners and Coach Azar for taking home the win!

As the event came to a close, awards were distributed and a raffle drawn. Congratulations to Jamie Harary on winning an authentic Jacob Degrom Mets jersey! Awards were given to those who portrayed the very best in their field. The Gold Glove Award went to Sammy Shamah, the Most Valuable Player trophy was given to Elliot Shammah and the Slugger Award went to Daniel Waingort. Congratulations to Nathan Salem on taking home the Sportsmanship Award.

Thank you to our sponsors without whom this day would not have been possible. Thank you also to the many volunteers who assisted with all the details which made the day so wonderful for the attendees.

HILLEL YESHIVA MIDDLE SCHOOL HOSTED A HISTORICALLY GREAT YOM HA’ATZMAUT CELEBRATION IN HONOR OF ISRAEL’S SEVENTY-FOURTH BIRTHDAY ON MAY 5TH. THE MUSEUM EXPO PROGRAM LED BY THE SEVENTH AND EIGHTH GRADERS INCLUDED MANY HIGHLIGHTS, LIKE A RECREATION OF THE MAHANE YEHUDA SHUK, AN IDF BASIC TRAINING WORKSHOP, A SHEMITAH FARM AND MUCH, MUCH MORE.

Even more impressive than the experience created by the students, was the backstory and process from which this idea emanated. The story behind the Yom Ha’atzmaut Expo began this past summer when four Hillel Yeshiva Middle School administrators and teachers were fortunate enough to attend a week-long professional development seminar on the topic of integrating a student based inquiry learning approach to project based learning.

This seminar, Ti-Tech@MIT (Massachusetts Institute of Technology), funded by a national foundation which supports Jewish day school education, trained the Hillel cohort in the student-centered methodology. And Hillel had to choose a school enhancement project to implement the methodology. Hillel chose Israeli education.

“We knew we wanted to do a better job teaching about Israel. We wanted to go above and beyond the facts about Israel. We wanted to challenge our students to really think about what Israel means to them. And thus was born, “What’s Your Israel? A Middle School Exhibit,” said Middle School Assistant Principal, Rabbi Ike Hanon.

The process began with focussing on the methodology, with the students engaging in activities to stimulate their inquiries. Using low-tech tools like post-its, construction paper and a “picture walk,” where students were introduced to a series of pictures which related indirectly to Israel and they needed to make their own conclusions based on these pictures. Students worked in groups to create a visual of what their Israel might look like. They then picked an area of interest about Israel that they would like to explore. Topic choices ranged from technology, agriculture, holy sites, food and culture, history and politics, religion and more.

Perhaps the most pivotal step in the process of growing the idea into a transformative expo experience was partnering with lay leadership. Mrs. Rivky Eidleman, Hillel Middle School Assistant Principal, reached out to Hillel parent and acclaimed event planner, Mrs. Doris Dwek, for insight and leadership in helping the students create the event. The rest is history.

“Doris was amazing,” said Mrs. Eidelman. “She generously gave of her time and resources to help the children achieve their goals. One of my favorite parts of the process was watching the children present their ideas to Doris. She gave each student committee the respect and time they needed to articulate their vision. She asked them targeted questions to challenge them to refine their ideas. “This is design thinking at its best,” said Mrs. Eidelman.

For Mrs. Dyan Levy, a Middle School math and science teacher, the collaborative process in which students engaged was most impressive. “I loved watching students from different grades and different circles working together to create this experience,” she said. “We literally were in the building until 11 p.m. finalizing details for the program. Teachers enjoyed working with students, from all different backgrounds and levels, all united by their desire to bring Israel a little closer to the community,” she continued.

Mrs. Danielle Sitt, a recent graduate of Stern College’s education program is trained in current progressive practices like project based learning. She was happy to recreate the feeling of being in Israel for the Hillel Yeshiva community. “Walking into the shuk, smelling the spices, hearing the sounds and tasting the foods actually gave me the sensation of being in Israel,” she said.

This amazing and emotional program, in which the faculty and students invested over five months, concluded on Friday morning, after Yom Ha’atzmaut. Teachers, families and students gathered under their shuk, to share words and gifts of appreciation, then joined together to sign Acheinu, in the hope that this project would truly continue to achieve its goal of bringing the community together, united by their love of Israel. L’Shana HaBa’ah B’Yerushalayim (next year in Jerusalem).

PHOTOS: YEHUDA JOFFE / C. SCHVARCZ PHOTOGRAPHY

YESHIVAH OF FLATBUSH (YOF) AND THE GREATER COMMUNITY CAME TOGETHER ON WEDNESDAY, MAY 4TH. THOUSANDS GATHERED AT THE FORD AMPHITHEATER ALONG THE CONEY ISLAND BOARDWALK TO PARTICIPATE IN YOF’S YOM HAZIKARON PROGRAM AND YOM HA’ATZMAUT CONCERT FEATURING THE FAMOUS SINGER YAAKOV SHWEKEY.

The warmth of the Flatbush family was palpable as students, parents, faculty, and the community at large—a total of more than 4,000 attendees—filled the theater.

Flatbush’s deep-rooted connection to Medinat Yisrael was exhibited as alumna Cynthia Benun addressed the crowd. Benun recently served in the sniper and counterterrorism units of the IDF. After her speech, 14 current YOF staff members and one alumnus who all also served in the IDF, marched down the aisles, while proudly carrying each of their unit’s flags. Guests took part in a moving candle lighting ceremony and observed a moment of silence for the fallen soldiers.

“While our community consists of so many beautifully diverse families, one idea truly unites us all—the Land of Israel. The greatest and most significant miracle our people have witnessed in the last 2,000 years is only 74 years young. While we sit physically far away from our home, our hearts and minds reside in the East. We must never forget the revealed presence of Hashem that we witnessed then and continue to witness. We must continue to show our eternal hakarat hatov, our deep appreciation, with hallel and hoda’ah and continue to pray that we will soon celebrate in Yerushalayim HaBenuya together,” expressed Elementary School Head of School Rabbi Yahel Tsaidi.

Joel Braverman High School Head of School Rabbi Joseph Beyda led a special Tefillah Arvit Chagigit, the prayers instituted by the Chief Rabbinate of Israel.

After the somber commemoration ceremony, the cheerful Yom Ha’Atzmaut celebration began with Yaakov Shwekey singing his popular hits, as students hugged each other and wrapped themselves up in Israeli flags. The room was dotted with blue and white and enveloped in bright lights as guests danced along to the music. Guests were treated to both the Elementary School choir, led by Ricky Sasson, and the High School choir, led by Mordy Weinstein, and were happy to sing along to the popular tunes.

Yaakov Shwekey performed an illuminating and inspiring show, joined by the thousands of voices who all knew the words to his songs. YOF 5th grader Jack Hidary was the second star of the show, as he belted out “Kol HaNeshama” to an appreciative audience, in honor of his father, YOF President and alumnus Abie J. Hidary. Shwekey joined him on stage at the end of the song.

The overall experience of the evening was designed to create the same look and feel of the celebrations that happen in Israel. To set the mood, candy, Israeli drinks, falafel and other Israeli snacks were sold at an authentically-decorated, Israeli-style shuk at the event. The event was the joint vision of Rabbi Tsaidi, Rabbi Joseph Beyda, and YOF Executive Director Rabbi Dr. Jeffrey Rothman.

“This program was a landmark event for the Yeshivah community. Under one tent, the entire Flatbush family congregated to celebrate one of our core values, Medinat Yisrael,” shared Rabbi Beyda.

The evening was intended to be one of the most powerful celebrations of Yom Ha’Atzmaut outside of Israel. YOF Events Coordinator Hana Hasson tirelessly planned the evening along with YOF faculty members Rachel Winkler, Sally Shatzkes, Iris Bukobza, Esther Chehova, Iris Sabtaniy, and YOF volunteers Sophia Shamash and Sarah Tawil. The Yom Ha’atzmaut celebration was dedicated by the Mamiye family.