THE SPECIAL CHILDREN’S CENTER BREAKFAST

SOPHIA FRANCO

IMAGINE A 21-YEAR-OLD GIRL, RUSHED INTO AN EMERGENCY C-SECTION, AS SHE GIVES BIRTH TO HER FIRST BABY. AFTER A DIFFICULT BIRTH, THE DOCTORS INSTRUCT THE MOM TO WATCH HER SON CAREFULLY. AT FIRST, SHE’S SURE NOTHING BAD WILL HAPPEN. EVERYTHING ALWAYS WENT SMOOTHLY FOR HER, AND SHE ALWAYS CONSIDERED HERSELF BLESSED. SHE GREW UP IN A HAPPY, SAFE, AND SHELTERED ENVIRONMENT. SHE AND HER HUSBAND WERE CHILDHOOD SWEETHEARTS. EVERYTHING WOULD BE FINE.

When her son was six months old, the mom knew something wasn’t right. The doctors told her that he wouldn’t be able to talk or have much cognitive ability. She was shocked, incredulous. She screamed and yelled, but it didn’t change anything. It didn’t make any sense.

When they calmed down, the couple made the decision to be extremely proactive, and it was intense. Their son was a happy and fun-loving child, but summers in Jersey were dreadful. There was no camp for him, and though the mom had heard of the Special Children’s Center, she had a stereotypical view of it, and could not picture her son there. She recalls, “The real strength would have been asking for help but I was not ready.”

Her sister, who had volunteered at Special Children’s Center for years, actually begged her to call for help, but the mom just wasn’t having it. “I was actually insulted that she thought he belonged there.”

Years passed, and the family struggled. The child never developed his speech, and wasn’t able to play functionally. “I was suffering silently,” the mom recalls, with tears in her eyes. “I remember watching other parents playing in the sand with their kids, or at the pool, or taking them to mini golf, or a restaurant. It was the little things in life I had started to appreciate. Nothing would ever be taken for granted again. I had that superhero mindset, but I was really exhausted.”

This is the hidden story of so many mothers of special children. Unfortunately, it is common. The moms are sure their child is not like the others. They are convinced he or she will improve with time and support, and they will “figure it out.” They buckle down, and decide that they will be strong, and go it alone, but they don’t have to. Jenine Shwekey and Chaya Bender have made sure of that over the last twenty years. To give mothers like her strength, Ruthie Terzi courageously chose to share her experience with her son Ronnie at the Special Children’s Center breakfast at Lisa and Lee Cohen’s home this past July. The morning was especially beautiful, but as Ruthie spoke, there was silence, and not a dry eye in the house.

“It wasn’t until Covid hit that my world turned upside down. I had three kids. Ronnie’s school had shut down indefinitely. He had started to change, and was becoming unmanageable. We would get that sweet happy boy a lot, but sometimes, we just couldn’t recognize him. He couldn’t tell us what he needed or wanted; he was frustrated, and we were frustrated.”

Ruthie knew she needed help very badly, but could not make the call. “It was Ronnie and me, 24/7. He wasn’t happy or stimulated, and he wasn’t getting the attention he needed. On top of it, another baby was on the way, and I was petrified. Everything I had done for him was falling apart. I needed to get my life under control.”

Sitting with Ronnie on her mom’s porch, in 90-degree heat in August, 2021, Ruthie decided, “There had to be more for this boy.” All these years she was too proud to call Special Children’s Center, but now, she was ready. “I remember Googling the number, and making the call. I spoke to a receptionist, introduced myself, and told them about Ronnie. The next day I went in for an intake.”

At this point in her story, you could actually see Ruthie calming down. You could actually hear her take a long-awaited breath. She was finally home.

Ruthie continued, “I walked into that Lakewood building for that first time, in awe. Wow, I thought. I saw so many different types of kids. Yes, some were in wheelchairs, some had Down syndrome, some were autistic, but so many were just like Ronnie. This place was a dream. The counselors were singing, dancing and laughing, with kids on their shoulders, going from one activity to the next. The kids were so happy. Ronnie would thrive here, I thought.”

Like so many mothers who finally allow themselves to receive the help they desperately need, Ruthie was in shock. She could not believe this place existed. She continued, “A second home for special children; state-of-the-art classrooms, jungle gym, lunchroom, pool, showers; they had everything and anything a boy could dream of. I remember Yentee, the director, explaining, ‘the Center has a program every single day until school starts, including Sundays. If there’s no program, we’ll send you someone, and if you ever need a break on Shabbat, we have a Center House.’ And then she added, ‘We’ll pick him up from Deal tomorrow.’ It was such a relief to not have to explain to someone what I needed, they just knew.”

For seven whole years Ruthie was lost in the dark. “Why did I wait so long to ask for help?” She cried. “I can’t believe I spent all those years burning myself out. I finally felt relief. As the parents of a special child, we don’t have the power to make life fair, but we do have the power to make life joyful. And that’s what the Special Children’s Center does.”

Ruthie explained that Ronnie went to the Center that morning on a bus full of Syrian kids, to a huge round of applause. “He went to pre-camp, and post-camp, like all the other kids, and attends every program offered. G-d bless, he’s a little world traveler now. The Center has taken him away the last three winter vacations, so that I could go away and enjoy my other three kids. He’s been with them on a Royal Caribbean cruise, he went to Disney World and Florida. This year we wanted to go away as a family for Passover. I would only be able to do it if his two counselors would come along. G-d bless them, angels that they are, we had an amazing trip. They are giving my son the best possible life, and that’s my vision for him.”

The Center’s love and attention for each child in their care does not end there. On the day of Ruthie’s son’s brit, she got a call from Jenine. Ruthie continued, “They wanted to take Ronnie to the Center House so that I could have time with the new baby. I was afraid that Ronnie was going to feel abandoned, but also knew he was in the best hands. I vividly remember looking at my husband after Shabbat dinner. I took a deep breath, and said ‘wow.’ The stress that they have taken off me was massive. Ronnie came home Sunday night showered, fed and had all his medicine, but most importantly he was happy. That was the first sleepover of many, many more to come. I had finally let go, and put my trust in someone else.”

The Special Children’s Center is a literal lifeline for these families. At the breakfast, you could feel the love. Yaakov Shwekey sang heartily with the children. Richie Dweck, strong leader that he is, described the true, authentic working farm at the Center and all its benefits, and the incredible renovation of the new Brooklyn location, explaining that all of this, while wonderful, needs constant funding. Harry Adjmi being Harry; roused and inspired the crowd; recognizing the goodness of so many people hard at work, and compelling, as always, each of us to stand tall in our commitments and in our support of a community that leans on each other. We are blessed.

Lee Cohen, host for the morning, explained, “I’ve heard about the SCC so many times, but when I went to visit the Lakewood campus, it was a defining moment. I thought there were 20 kids, maybe 40 kids — I had no idea. When I pulled up, I was shocked. It wasn’t just a small building with a few classrooms. It was a huge, magnificent campus. There were 500 children there! Kids were laughing outside with foam and bubbles, swarming us. ‘Can you sing like Yaakov Shwekey?’ I’d heard about Jenine and Chaya, but I didn’t understand. They are miracle workers! The kids were smiling, laughing, singing, swimming and having so much fun. It was incredible to see, and forever embodied in my mind.”

His wife Lisa added, “We were mesmerized. They got a 200-pound cake for my daughter Caroline’s birthday! My 23-year-old son fell in love with the kids, and can’t wait to have them over again. The Center is magical! Norma Cohen, running ten shows at once, created an enchanted day for us. Harry Adjmi, Elliot Tawil, Richie Dweck, Jenine and Chaya all brought their energy to our home and explained how much it meant for us to host. We were very blessed that they chose us, and blessed that we could do it. We are on a high!”

“Loving is giving, and giving is life.” I wrote these words for the song I Can Be more than ten years ago. Today, as I continue to learn and grow, and watch the community pouring out their love and support, I know that I was on the right track. G-d bless, we are so lucky. This community stands united and unwavering, and the Center wants to give back. Chaya Bender explained, “Last year, 7,000 people came to see Yaakov perform at the summer concert. This year, on August 27th, we are going to do it all over again, and even better! The special kids will be performing alongside Yaakov, and it will be a night of unity and strength for all this community stands for.”

Ruthie doesn’t look back on her life, only moves forward. She continued, “The harsh reality is that the goal of special needs kids is to keep them home as long as possible, because no one can give them more love than their parents. The Center makes that possible. Ronnie is a special child but he is our biggest blessing. He has taught my family to be kind and empathetic and grateful. We don’t complain or worry about the small things. We know what real problems look like. We don’t judge anyone or stare at anyone because we know how it feels when people do it to us. The Special Children’s Center is not an option. It is a necessity.”

Thank you to Norma Cohen and her daughter Lydia for their flawless execution and patience, Harry and Alice Adjmi, and Gayle Krost for their constant love and devotion, and especially to Ruthie Terzi. She is the face of every mother of a special child who has, or has not yet, walked through our doors. Thank you for your honesty, candor and bravery. It wasn’t easy to tell your story, and you did it with grace, elegance and courage. Bravo.

To volunteer or donate please visit ThecenterNJ.org or call (732)367-0099.

Sophia Franco is a community writer. Among essays, songs and biographies she also composed I Can Be, We are a Miracle and I Am Alive for Yaakov Shwekey.

SMART STRATEGIES FOR HEALTHCARE COSTS

ARI BAUM, CFP®

WHEN YOU THINK ABOUT RETIREMENT, YOU LIKELY PICTURE SANDY BEACHES, EXTENDED TIME WITH FAMILY, OR FINALLY WRITING THAT NOVEL. HOWEVER, BEYOND THE PEACEFUL HORIZON OF YOUR POST-WORK YEARS, THE DARK CLOUDS OF HEALTHCARE AND LONG-TERM CARE COSTS ARE GATHERING. MAPPING OUT THESE EXPENSES IS CRUCIAL TO ENSURE YOUR RETIREMENT REMAINS ON THE SMOOTHEST TRAJECTORY POSSIBLE.

Healthcare costs in retirement can be as unpredictable as the weather, with prices fluctuating and often spiking without warning. Medicare provides a basic level of protection, but it’s far from foolproof. From premiums to prescriptions, the costs can quickly accumulate, potentially derailing your financial plans.

Prescription drugs, particularly new ones without generic versions, are becoming increasingly expensive. This can lead to a coverage gap commonly known as the “donut hole,” where you’re forced to cover a significant portion of drug costs out of pocket. Planning for these expenses is essential to maintain your financial stability.

Long-Term Care: The Unexpected Stowaway
Long-term care costs are like an unexpected stowaway on your retirement voyage. Here’s a startling fact: about 70% of us will need some form of long-term care after age 65. Whether it’s help at home or full-time care in a facility, these services come with a hefty price tag that climbs each year.

Enlisting a Financial Professional
Your First Mate
Charting retirement waters alone can be daunting. That’s why teaming up with a financial professional isn’t just smart — it’s essential. Here’s why they’re your ideal first mate:

Custom Coordinates: Your financial journey is as unique as your fingerprint. A professional can draw a map that matches your specific health needs and financial landscape.

Medicare Mastery: They know the ins and outs of Medicare and supplemental plans. With their guidance, you can potentially avoid those costly out-of-pocket hits.

Funding The Journey: If you need strategies for financing long-term care, a financial professional will have a treasure chest of options, from insurance policies to investment strategies tailored just for this purpose.

Adjusting the Sails: The seas of retirement are ever-changing. A financial professional keeps a keen eye on the horizon for law changes and policy updates that can impact your path.

Ready Your Retirement Vessel
With a skilled financial professional as your navigator and a detailed plan as your map, you can confidently sail through the complex seas of healthcare and long-term care costs. This strategic preparation ensures you can relish your retirement, free from the turbulence of unforeseen expenses.

Smart Strategies for Healthcare Costs
Here are some specific strategies to help you master these stormy waters:

Understand Your Medicare Options: Medicare comes in multiple parts — Part A (hospital insurance), Part B (medical insurance), Part D (prescription drug coverage), and Medicare Advantage Plans (Part C). Each has different costs, coverage, and rules. Reviewing these options carefully and choosing the right combination can save you a significant amount of money.

Consider Supplemental Insurance: Medigap policies can help cover some of the costs that Medicare doesn’t, like copayments, coinsurance, and deductibles. Compare plans to find one that offers the best coverage for your needs.

Plan for Out-of-Pocket Costs: Even with Medicare and supplemental insurance, you’ll have out-of-pocket expenses. Creating a dedicated savings account for healthcare expenses can provide a cushion for unexpected costs.

Take Advantage of Health Savings Accounts (HSAs): If you have a high-deductible health plan, an HSA allows you to save pre-tax dollars for medical expenses. Funds roll over year to year and can be a valuable resource in retirement.

Explore Long-Term Care Insurance: Long-term care insurance can help cover the costs of services not typically covered by health insurance, Medicare, or Medicaid. Policies vary widely, so it’s essential to understand what is covered and the limitations of each plan.

Long-Term Care: Proactive Planning
Given the high likelihood of needing long-term care, proactive planning is essential. Here are some steps to consider:

Assess Your Needs Early: Determine the type of care you might need based on your health, family history, and lifestyle. This assessment can help you choose the right insurance coverage and savings plan.

Explore Different Insurance Options: Long-term care insurance can be expensive, but hybrid policies that combine life insurance with long-term care benefits might offer more value and flexibility.

Consider Alternatives: Besides insurance, other options like home equity, annuities, and retirement savings can help cover long-term care costs. A financial professional can help you identify the best mix of resources.

Anchors Aweigh
Retirement should be a time to enjoy the fruits of your labor, not worry about unforeseen expenses. By understanding your healthcare and long-term care needs, exploring your options, and enlisting the help of a financial professional, you can set sail with confidence. Reach out to a financial professional today to craft a retirement plan that’s as secure and personalized as your future deserves to be. Your best adventure awaits.

The content is developed from sources believed to be providing accurate information. Investing involves risk including the potential loss of principal. No investment strategy can guarantee a profit or protect against loss in periods of declining values. Past performance does not guarantee future results. This information is not intended to be a substitute for specific tax or legal advice. Consult with your financial professional regarding your specific situation.

Ari Baum, CFP® is the founder and CEO of Endurance Wealth Partners, with over 26 years of experience in the Financial Services industry. He brings his in-depth experience to Conceive. Believe. Achieve. for his clients.
Securities and Advisory services offered through Prospera Financial Services Inc. Member FINRA/SIPC. Brokerage and Advisory accounts carried by Wells Fargo Clearing Services, LLC.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

A WEEK OF RESILIENCE & RENEWAL

HANNAH ELMEKIES

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

RETHINKING THE COLLEGE EXPERIENCE

Sarina Roffé

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

VICTORIA SAFDIEH

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

RACHELLE MATSAS

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

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

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

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

THE CENTER

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

DSN

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

SAFE

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

SBH

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

RABBI MICHAEL HABER A”H A MAN OF ACTION

Jack Doueck

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

ARI BAUM, CFP®

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

The content is developed from sources believed to be providing accurate information. Investing involves risk including the potential loss of principal. No investment strategy can guarantee a profit or protect against loss in periods of declining values. Past performance does not guarantee future results. This information is not intended to be a substitute for specific individualized tax advice. Consult with your financial professional regarding your specific situation.

Ari Baum, CFP® is the founder and CEO of Endurance Wealth Partners, with over 26 years of experience in the Financial Services industry. He brings his in-depth experience to Conceive. Believe. Achieve. for his clients.
Securities and Advisory services offered through Prospera Financial Services Inc. Member FINRA/SIPC. Brokerage and Advisory accounts carried by Wells Fargo Clearing Services, LLC.