As a culmination of the Hesed lessons they have learned since Playgroup, our MDY 8th graders devoted an entire day to a memorable Hesed Mission, and their kindness shone throughout. Students visited individuals with disabilities, connecting, dancing, and learning to read the quiet cues of those around them, who needed a laugh, who wanted to join in, and who preferred calm companionship. They engaged with autistic children through hands-on projects, gaining a deeper understanding of how every child communicates in their own unique way.
Our MDY students also rolled up their sleeves in support of families in our community. In partnership with Toys for Hospitalized Children, they wrapped toys and personalized festive cards, inspired by the belief that “happy kids heal faster.” They joined a Target scavenger hunt for essential items used by families who rely on our SBH Food Pantry. Using traditional ingredients, they prepared trays of Mazza appetizers to be distributed to those in need. At lunchtime, the grade was uplifted by inspirational words from MDY Rabbinical Leader, Rabbi Eli J. Mansour, and Mrs. Sophia Cohen, founder of Urban Pops, who encouraged them to carry the spirit of Hesed into their lives long after graduation. Their messages added meaning and reflection to an already powerful day. Back at school, students participated in team-building activities led by Dina Kraiem, reinforcing connection, cooperation, and the shared purpose they had built through their Hesed work. None of this would have been possible without the dedication of our parent volunteers, led by our 8th grade captains, Michelle Arakanchi and Jenny Levy. Their example showed our children what Hesed looks like in real life, and the leadership of our MDY PTA volunteers reinforced that giving, caring, and supporting others are values lived at home as well as at school. Throughout the day, our 8th graders showed extraordinary empathy, teamwork, and awareness. Host organizations shared glowing feedback about their warmth and maturity. We could not be prouder.
The day concluded with a recap slideshow, giving students the chance to see the impact of their efforts and to take pride in the good they brought into the world. They ended the day uplifted, inspired, and eager to continue doing Hesed beyond the walls of MDY.
I recently returned from Budapest, Hungary, after taking part in the Youth Zionist Congress, a reenactment of Theodore Herzl’s 1897 First Zionist Congress, and I can honestly say it was one of the most meaningful Jewish experiences I’ve ever had. From the moment we arrived, it felt like we were stepping into history. Standing in the city where Herzl was born and where he first imagined a Jewish State gave the entire experience a sense of purpose and authenticity. But what made this congress truly powerful wasn’t only reenacting what Herzl did, it was realizing that WE are the ones writing the next chapter. Our opening ceremony set the tone. Being welcomed by a charismatic “Herzl” actor who brought the history to life and then hearing the Israeli Minister of Education, Sar Hahinuch–Yoav Kisch, speak about the future of global Jewry, made all of us feel that we were part of something bigger than ourselves. On the second day, the real work began. Delegates from across the world debated pressing issues facing the Jewish people today. Together we drafted, refined, and voted on our own modern Zionist charter, our generation’s vision for how to strengthen Jewish identity, connection, and global unity. We also played fun Israeli games in a park across the street, continued learning sessions, and ended the night with an unforgettable dance party that brought everyone closer together.
By the third day, our group felt like a family. We toured Budapest, took part in deeper sessions, and ended with a gala in a castle. Surrounded by hundreds of Jewish teens from every corner of the world, I felt the kind of pride and a sense of belonging that I know will stay with me forever. We wrapped up late that night, and by early morning, we were already boarding flights home, feeling empowered, emotional, and inspired. One of the most meaningful parts of the congress was the elections for the Youth Zionist Congress Council (CC). I’m incredibly honored to have been elected as a representative from the USA, and even more humbled to have been chosen as the Spokesperson of Hasbara. Knowing that the congress doesn’t end in Budapest but continues throughout the year makes this responsibility even more meaningful. With Hashem’s help, we will keep meeting, collaborating, creating initiatives, and strengthening the global Jewish network we built together. Being surrounded by Jewish teens from so many different countries and continents, South America, Europe, Israel, Africa, Australia, and everywhere in between, was eye-opening. Even though we all grew up with different customs, languages, and approaches to Judaism, the sense of achdut was immediate. Hearing their challenges and hopes gave me a deeper understanding of what it means to be a Jew and a Zionist today: global, diverse, passionate, resilient, and united. What I’m bringing home with me is more than memories. It’s a mission, our people’s mission. I want to share what I experienced and learned with my friends in school and in my community, to get more teens to think seriously about their Jewish identity, and show them that Zionism isn’t just something from a history book. It’s something living; it is something we’re responsible for continuing, shaping, and strengthening. The friendships I made in Budapest feel like the beginning of something long-term. We’re already staying in touch, planning projects, sharing ideas, and counting down until we meet again next year in Yerushalayim Habenuayah. I know that these connections will last far beyond this program.
Thank you to Gesher and all our incredible partners for making this possible, for creating a program that didn’t just teach history, but allowed us to live it and carry it forward. And finally, I want to thank my school, Magen David Yeshivah High School, for giving me this incredible opportunity and for supporting me throughout this unforgettable experience. I’m proud of what we accomplished together in Budapest, and even prouder of what our generation is going to build next. Change, is coming… and with Hashem’s help, it’s coming faster than the blink of an eye–יְשׁוּעַת ה’ כְּהֶרֶף עַיִן!
Our MDY PTA kept an incredible secret. They brought world-famous singer and performer Mordechai Shapiro for a school-wide Hanukkah concert. The energy was electric as students sang along, danced with their friends, and soaked up every moment of the unforgettable performance.
When the announcement was made that it was concert time, students exchanged excited and slightly bewildered looks, was this really happening? It was the perfect way to kick off the holiday week, launching our festivities with joy, unity, and celebration. Through his music, Mordechai shared powerful messages of unity, friendship, emunah, and pride in being Jewish, values we deeply cherish here at Magen David. To ensure every student could fully experience the excitement, Mordechai performed two back-to-back concerts, accommodating all students from Pre-K through eighth grade. Midway through the program, Rabbi Saban joined Mordechai on stage to remind us that even in moments of joy, we hold our IDF soldiers close in our hearts. Together, they led the entire room in a moving rendition of Mi Sheberach creating a powerful and meaningful moment. The celebration reached its peak when Mordechai closed the show with an exhilarating Hanukkah medley, leaving students cheering and beaming. We are still on a high from watching our children sing every word of their favorite songs while enthusiastically waving their light sticks to the beat. A huge thank you to our dedicated PTA for their thoughtful planning and care, and to our generous sponsors for helping make this event such a remarkable success. What a fun, enjoyable, and inspiring day for our entire MDY family.
Every rising senior in any community high school faces the same question: spend the next year studying in Israel or not? For some students, the answer is a definitive yes or no. Others spend quite a bit of time in discussions with their parents trying to figure out what the best choice is for them.
Sam and Nancy Sutton with Eshel students today
For many decades, male high school graduates have been attending yeshivot in Israel, bolstering their religious practices and spiritual strength. The number of young women who attended seminary was much lower. Baruch Hashem, the gap is narrowing. The turning point occurred in 2007. Miriam Abott Tawil (Flatbush HS 88) had recently made Aliyah with her husband and children and was teaching in gap year programs in Yerushalayim. While these schools were terrific for young women, the Sephardic aspect of Judaism was absent. This led to a meeting with pioneering seminary students Adele Chabot, Rochelle Salem, Denise Zami, and Lenore Mizrachi. While they all loved their studies in Israel, they agreed that there was a need for a Sephardic Midrasha (a house of Torah study for women). According to Adele Chabot Tawil, “I think Midreshet Eshel answers a big need. Girls who wouldn’t otherwise come to Israel come to Eshel. Girls like that it is small and warm. Most seminaries are huge.” She added that the six-month option made this school attractive because most places only offer a one-year program. “Studying Tanach in the place where the events happened pulls all their learning together,” Miriam Tawil says about the young women who choose to study at ME. She added that they become part of the Jewish People rebuilding their Homeland and come to see Israel as their spiritual home. They learn from role models like Mrs. Ilana Alouf, her daughter Hilla Aboody, her daughter-in-law Mariyah Alouf, Victoria Chabot Berman, Alicia Matsas Dweck, Merle Cohen Idy, and Deborah Heffes Azerad, who guide the women at a developmentally appropriate time, enabling them to reach their potential. “I find the students start the year unsure of themselves and where they are going,” Miriam explained. “It is a beautiful thing to see when it all clicks in, and the student becomes confident in who she is and where she wants to go in life. Here they learn WHY they should live a life of Torah, and why learning is a value that they want to practice moving forward.” Miriam has furthered her own education, earning a doctorate in Education from Yeshiva University. But what about the practicality of living in Yerushalayim? “We take security very seriously,” Miriam states. “There is a system here. The rules are not negotiable. We are connected to all the community agencies charged with keeping us safe. Overwhelmingly, the girls behave responsibly.”
Mr. Harold Shamah addresses students
As the Midrasha grew, it became apparent that a permanent home was needed. Board members Ezra Ashkenazi, Harry Adjmi, Harold Shamah, and Rabbi Ricky Cohen came to the rescue. With their help, and the assistance of so many donors, the beautiful and unique building in the Jewish Quarter of the Old City, with views of Har Habayit (the Temple Mount), was purchased. It was the realization of a dream. With Hashem’s help, many generations of Sephardic women will be educated here.
How MDYHS Students Bring Light to Our Community All Year Long
At Magen David Yeshivah High School, Hesed is not an extracurricular activity, it’s a way of life. It shapes our students, strengthens our community, and defines who we aspire to be. From ongoing partnerships with local organizations to large-scale grade-wide initiatives, MDYHS students consistently step forward with a genuine desire to make a difference and give back.
One of the most valued ongoing Hesed experiences is our monthly partnership with the Sephardic Community Center and Imagine Academy. Each month, MDYHS students meet Imagine students for a Build-A-Bear workshop, where the Imagine students take the lead as “staff,” guiding their new friends through the bear-building experience. The joy in the room is unmistakable. Our students, along with the students from Imagine, look forward to these visits with excitement, and their interactions are full of laughter, encouragement, and warmth. It has become increasingly clear that this experience benefits everyone involved. Recently, the entire 12th grade traveled to Lakewood for Senior Hesed Day, devoting an entire day to giving back. The boys began at Chai Lifeline, assembling gift packages for children to receive on Hanukkah. The girls visited Bikur Holim, preparing Shabbat meals for hospital rooms throughout New Jersey. Both groups toured the facilities and learned about the life-changing services these organizations provide, from medical referrals to housing near hospitals to vital equipment rentals. The boys continued their day at Tomchei Shabbos, breaking down boxes and helping organize the warehouse, while the girls headed to Chai Lifeline, where they joined in packaging care packages for families in need. The day culminated at Leisure Chateau, a rehab center and nursing home. There, our seniors brought music, dancing, warmth, and connection to the residents, lighting up the room with their presence. We are incredibly proud of our seniors, who represented our school with dignity, kindness, and enthusiasm at every stop. Their efforts were deeply appreciated by the organizations and individuals they touched. There were other Hesed opportunities this month as well. A group of MDYHS students had the privilege of joining Reach for the Stars for a special Hanukkah celebration. The celebration featured a reptile farm, a bubble show, and festive Hanukkah-themed art projects. Our students embraced the opportunity to connect, celebrate, and create lasting memories with the children. Right before Thanksgiving, when an early dismissal might have sent most teens home for the afternoon, six MDYHS girls chose differently. They spent their free time at the Special Children’s Center, visiting the Little Explorers Play House and giving their energy, attention, and heart to the children there. Their choice reflects the very essence of MDYHS values, seeing others, showing up, and making a difference when it matters most. What unites all these moments, from monthly Build-A-Bear partnerships, to grade-wide service days, to individual acts of compassion, is the unwavering belief that every student can impact the world for the better. At MDYHS, our students don’t just do Hesed, they live it, embody it, and elevate everyone around them through it. Tizku l’mitzvot (may you merit many mitzvot) to all of our students. Your actions bring light to our community and beyond.
“90 SECONDS: FOR YOUNG READERS” teaches young readers about selflessness, sacrifice, bravery, and the profound impact that caring for others can have on their own lives. Through an engaging and accessible narrative, the book tells the story of Eli Beer, who founded the world’s largest volunteer EMS organization to ensure that anyone in need of emergency medical aid in Israel receives fast, free help.
On October 29th, Gavy Friedson, a United Hatzalah volunteer EMT who has responded to more than 10,000 emergency calls in Israel, spoke to 6th graders at Yeshivah of Flatbush and Magen David Yeshivah, sharing life-saving stories from the field and distributing these books to hundreds of enthusiastic students. 500 copies of 90 Seconds were generously sponsored by Raymond and Elizabeth Gindi, along with Al and Chantal Gindi, to distribute to children at these schools and throughout the Syrian Jewish community to inspire the next generation toward getting involved in tzedakah and United Hatzalah’s life-saving mission. “The Syrian community has always stood by United Hatzalah. We are deeply grateful for the Gindi family’s selfless philanthropic leadership and effort to share their values of hesed and education through these books,” said Marcelle Farhi, Senior Development Associate at United Hatzalah. The books are well suited for 6th graders, many of whom begin seeking impactful organizations for their bar and bat mitzvah projects. As they prepare for these moments, many children begin to understand that they can personally and directly make a difference by helping others in need. When selecting their bar and bat mitzvah projects, kids can join United Hatzalah’s Leight Legacy Heroes program at www.israelrescue.org/heroes to raise $180 to sponsor an oxygen tank in Israel that bears their name. Their oxygen tank is then used by United Hatzalah medics in real, lifesaving missions, giving each child a tangible connection to the impact of their philanthropy. For more information about United Hatzalah, or to receive a copy of 90 Seconds: For Young Readers and arrange a speaker for your school, please contact Marcelle Farhi at MarcelleF@israelrescue.org or visit IsraelRescue.org/heroes.
In the recent months, Rabbi Shlomo Anapolle, Director of the International Programs at Machon Lev accompanied by Rabbi Moshe Tessone visited Deal, New Jersey, where they met with a group of Syrian students to share insights about Machon Lev College for Men and Machon Tal College for Women and its unique educational opportunities. They were warmly welcomed by Rabbi Harold Sutton and a group of his learning cohorts in the Deal community.
During their visit, they spoke about the value of spending a gap year in Israel and how studying at Machon Lev for Men (and Machon Tal for Women) allows students to continue growing both spiritually and academically. The students expressed enthusiasm about learning in Jerusalem, strengthening their connection to Eretz Yisrael, and preparing for meaningful careers rooted in Torah values. The visit underscored how Machon Lev and Machon Tal and their mission deeply resonates with young Sephardic Jews seeking to integrate their heritage with modern professional achievement and with a strong connection to the land of Israel and Jerusalem. The campuses are centrally located in Jerusalem. For Sephardic young men and women seeking a meaningful and transformative educational experience, studying in Israel offers not only academic growth but also spiritual and cultural enrichment. Among the many institutions of higher learning in Israel, the Machon Lev (for men) and Machon Tal (for women) stands out as an ideal choice, especially for students who value a strong balance between Torah learning and cutting-edge professional education. With a proud commitment to religious values and academic excellence, Both Machon Lev and Machon Tal offer Sephardic students an environment where their heritage is respected, their potential is nurtured, and their future is bright. Founded in 1969, Machon Lev and Machon Tal are part of JCT which is known for its integrated approach, combining rigorous Torah study with high-level programs in engineering, business management, health sciences, computer science, and more. Unlike many secular universities and colleges in Israel, JCT is deeply rooted in Jewish tradition, offering separate men’s and women’s campuses and schedules that allow students to maintain a full yeshiva-style learning program alongside their degree studies. This dual focus reflects the ideals of Sephardic Jewry — a community that historically has emphasized both religious devotion and active participation in society. For Sephardic students, Machon Lev and Machon Tal offer a welcoming and inclusive atmosphere. The college is home to a diverse student body, including many from Sephardic backgrounds — whether from Israel, France, Latin America, North Africa, or the United States. The staff, rabbanim and faculty are sensitive to Sephardic minhagim and halakhic rulings, and Sephardic students will find rabbis and peers who share their traditions and outlook. From tefillot according to Sephardic nusah to shiurim that reflect Sephardic halakhic perspectives, students are empowered to grow in their own heritage while engaging with a wider Torah world. Academically, both Machon Lev and Machon Tal are highly respected in both the Israeli and international job markets. Graduates have gone on to successful careers in hi-tech, finance, management, cybersecurity, biomedical engineering, and other fields that are vital to Israel’s economy and global innovation. With its close ties to the leading Israeli companies and startups, both Machon Lev and Machon Tal students benefit from internships, mentorship, and job placement opportunities that open doors to meaningful careers — all while maintaining a strong Torah identity. For Sephardic families considering higher education options, the affordability at Machon Lev and Machon Tal is also an important factor. Tuition is often significantly lower than comparable institutions abroad, and scholarships are available for international students. Moreover, the experience of living and learning in Yerushalayim — the eternal capital of Am Yisrael — is priceless. Walking the streets of Jerusalem, praying at the Kotel, and being part of the vibrant religious life of the city is something no classroom can replicate. In short, Machon Lev and Machon Tal offer a unique opportunity for Sephardic students to combine Torah, tradition, and professional success. It is a place where you can honor your past, build your future, and take your place as a proud and capable member and leader of Klal Yisrael. For more information, please email israelproject2023@gmail.com.
On a crisp Hanukkah morning in Flatbush, the home of Fortune and David Edelstein buzzed with excitement as Toys for Simcha hosted a festive bake sale and auction.
Guests were greeted by the irresistible aroma of freshly baked treats. The bake sale featured delectable fresh challah, sufganiyot, chocolate chip cookies, brownies, and more. The auction offered an array of packages for everyone, including jewelry, sports tickets, Judaica, and men’s clothing. Thank you to the generous sponsors for helping make this stunning auction possible. Attendees heard from Chaya Recu, mom of an adorable and energetic five year old boy with a complex heart condition. “When a child is in the hospital, your world shrinks,” shared Chaya. “The only thing you focus on or care about is getting your child better. Toys for Simcha adds breathing space. They give kids the opportunity to be a kid and be happy.” “Our family recently attended the Toys for Simcha Hanukkah party,” she continued. “It was incredibly fun. We had time just to enjoy being a family and going to a party like families do. When Ariel lit a candle in the menorah, he was beaming. It felt so good watching my son’s face light up. During the magic show, he got called up by Magic Al as a participant. He was laughing so hard. I’m so grateful for that moment of seeing him beyond happy. I couldn’t stop thinking, thanks to this organization for giving joy and healing.” Her words resonated deeply with everyone present, a heartfelt reminder of how the organization brings comfort, joy, and moments of normalcy to children facing medical challenges. Mrs. Chani Shelby delivered an engaging Torah class for the women in attendance, in her encouraging and inspirational style. Special thanks to the chairman of Toys for Simcha, Mr. Eli Cohen, and his dedicated wife, Helen, who worked tirelessly to bring this event to fruition.
The bake sale created awareness in the community about Toys for Simcha and our mission to bring happiness and healing to sick children. Many new women were excited to get involved and volunteer, and it also enabled us to connect with new families who need our services. We are grateful to bring happiness and healing to the children who need it most. We are deeply grateful to our extraordinary event committee, whose dedication made this event a great success, including Maya Cohen, Helen Cohen, Naomi Benamu, Eden Harari, Raquel Habert, Esther Moghrabi, Ronette Mansour, Frieda Sutton, Sarah Bildirici, Lillian Manopla, Sarah Faks, Lauren Sitt, Sharon Savdie, Lorraine Salem, and Laurie Sutton. A house full of women, coming together to make sure no child feels alone in their hardest moments. This Hanukkah bake sale was more than a fundraiser. It was a reminder that joy brings healing and that even the smallest moments of happiness can light the darkest days for a hospitalized child. Because Happy Kids Heal Faster!
Career Connections Day at MDYHS was more than a special event. It was a purposeful step toward helping students understand themselves, their strengths, and the countless possibilities ahead of them.
This year’s program built upon weeks of preparation, beginning with an interest survey administered schoolwide. Every student answered questions designed to illuminate which fields, work environments, and types of occupations best align with their personalities, talents, and long-term goals. Using those results, students were given a curated list of 28 professional fields represented in this year’s program. These ranged from law, medicine, and finance, to digital media, entrepreneurship, real estate, culinary arts, and more. In advance of the event, they selected the sessions that most excited them, allowing each student to craft a personalized morning of career exploration tailored to their unique interests. When Career Connections Day arrived, the building was full of energy, anticipation, and purpose. Students attended small-group sessions led by inspiring guest professionals, many of them alumni or community members, who generously shared their stories, challenges, accomplishments, and real-world insights. These conversations gave students an authentic window into a range of career paths and helped them see how their passions and skills might translate into meaningful work. Throughout the morning, students asked thoughtful questions, learned about the realities of different industries, and began imagining future pathways with greater clarity. Every session reinforced one of our most important goals, helping students recognize their own potential and the many ways they can contribute to the world.
The day concluded with a dynamic networking reception in the atrium, where senior students had the opportunity to mingle with presenters in a more personal, informal setting. These connections were more than inspirational. They may lead directly to placements for the students’ NEXT Senior Internship Program in May. As seniors began exploring where they hoped to spend their internship experience, many left the event with new contacts, new mentors, and new possibilities to pursue. Career Connections Day reflects the very core of who we are at MDYHS. We are a school that values relationships, believes deeply in possibility, and empowers students to take confident, meaningful steps toward their future. It is learning that extends beyond the classroom, rooted in curiosity, guided by real-world experience, and strengthened by the support of our community. A heartfelt thank you to our students and the exceptional professionals who shared their time, expertise, and wisdom. Together, you made this year’s Career Connections Day an inspiring and transformative success.
Hanukkah at DSN was a beautiful reminder of what our community does best, bringing people together through meaningful and inclusive experiences for all ages.
The celebrations began on Monday, December fifteenth, with the highly anticipated Annual Hanukkah Bingo Night at the DSN Community Center. One of the most beloved programs of the year, this free event welcomes all families and truly embodies the spirit of unity. The evening featured a menorah lighting with Rabbi David Tawil and Rabbi Joey Dana, a festive photo booth, and a dairy dinner for all, along with an array of over one hundred exciting prizes that kept the energy high throughout the night. Infectious enthusiasm filled the room as DSN’s Executive Director, Sammy Sitt, once again served as master of ceremonies, making it a night to remember for everyone. The festivities continued on Tuesday, December sixteenth, at the DSN Beach Club, where eighty women gathered for the Ladies Hanukkah Cards Extravaganza. With music and games in full swing and a lively gift exchange, the room buzzed with warmth and laughter. Canasta and mahjong enthusiasts enjoyed an abundance of themed prizes, while DSN generously provided donuts, latkes, and snacks. In the true spirit of Hanukkah, attendees also had the opportunity to drop off toys to be donated to SBH and other organizations supporting children in need, reinforcing that hesed is always at the heart of our community. Volunteer Chairperson for the event, Kelly Sabbagh, said, “Anyone who hasn’t spent a winter in Jersey can’t truly appreciate what it has become, a season filled with incredible programming by DSN and meaningful friendships that grow from it. Most special of all have been our Mahjong and Canasta Tuesdays, of which the Hanukkah Ladies Extravaganza was a natural extension. B”H (with G-D’s help), this is something we will continue every year.” The next day, Wednesday, brought a double whammy of meaningful programming. Earlier in the day, DSN partnered with SBH to host a Senior Hanukkah Celebration, welcoming seventy seniors for a truly special experience. Guests enjoyed cookie decorating, live music by Dan the Sax Man, and a delicious lunch provided by PKS. Thanks to the generosity of Astor Accessories, seniors were gifted beautiful scarves and hats, adding an extra layer of warmth, both literal and figurative, to the celebration. DSN’s Stephanie Massry, speaking on behalf of herself and co-Senior Director Vicky Schreiber, shared, “We love what we do. This is a highlight of the year, to see all the seniors come together and enjoy such a beautiful celebration.” Later that day, the DSN Beach Club welcomed parents and children for a hands-on sufganiyot (donuts) decorating event, where families bonded as children expressed their creativity by making their own donuts with an array of toppings, all in the joyful spirit of Hanukkah. As the candles were lit throughout the week, DSN once again demonstrated its commitment to connection, kindness, and community. We can all use a little more light, and DSN is proud to help provide it, one celebration at a time. Sammy Sitt summarized the week’s events, saying, “Hanukkah has always been one of the most impactful weeks of the year at DSN. We saw over one thousand people attending our Hanukkah events. It’s a credit to our amazing staff and volunteers. May Hashem continue to bless DSN to serve our growing community!”
What investors can learn from ocean swimming when the waves get rough
Ari Baum, CFP®
THERE’S A MOMENT DURING EVERY IRONMAN OCEAN SWIM WHEN THE WATER SHIFTS. THE CURRENT PICKS UP, A WAVE HITS YOU AT THE WRONG ANGLE, AND THE CALM RHYTHM YOU HAD GOING SUDDENLY DISAPPEARS. EVEN STRONG ATHLETES FEEL IT, THE QUICK SPIKE OF FEAR, THE INSTINCT TO STOP, THE URGE TO LOOK FOR SAFETY. BUT THEN YOU BREATHE, SETTLE IN, AND KEEP MOVING FORWARD. YOU DON’T QUIT THE RACE BECAUSE THE WATER GOT CHOPPY. YOU ADJUST, STAY PATIENT, AND LET THE ROUGH PATCH PASS.
Market corrections work the same way. They show up fast, they feel bigger than they are, and they test every investor’s nerves. Yet when you zoom out, most corrections end long before they ever threaten your long-term goals. Since the market bottom in March 2009, the S&P 500 has experienced more than thirty corrections over five percent. Most lasted only a few weeks. During that same stretch, including dividends, the index returned more than 1,200 percent. Before we go deeper, remember this: fear hits harder in the moment than the actual danger. That’s true in the ocean and it’s true in the markets. Corrections and Currents: They Both Come With the Territory Anyone who’s raced an Ironman knows the ocean is never perfectly still. Even on a calm day, the water rolls. Some swells lift you, others push against you, and sometimes you don’t realize you’ve drifted until you sight the buoy ahead. Corrections are the market’s version of those currents. They’re not signs of failure. They’re signs you’re in motion. Investors often expect the market to move in a straight line. It never does. There are waves, dips, and stretches where progress feels slow. But none of this means you’re off course. Just as you trust the race map, you trust the long-term trend of the market. Every correction has a reason that sounds scary in the moment, wars, inflation, politics, interest rates, a sudden headline that hits before the opening bell. Yet history shows those reasons fade, the market stabilizes, and the long-term trend resumes. When you look back, the correction becomes one brief bump in a much larger upward climb.
Why Volatility Feels Like a Rogue Wave Ask any athlete what makes open-water swimming different from a pool. It’s the unpredictability. You can train for months, feel ready, and still get hit by a wave that throws off your timing. In the moment, it feels personal even though it’s not. It’s just the ocean doing what the ocean does. Volatility hits investors with the same force. When your portfolio drops suddenly, it feels like something targeted you. Your brain jumps to worst-case scenarios. Your chest tightens a bit. You pull your head out of the water and look around for danger. That reaction is natural, but it usually leads to poor decisions. Most corrections are short-lived. They come fast, shake confidence, and fade. The emotional impact lasts longer than the financial one. Peter Lynch summed it up years ago: more money is lost trying to anticipate corrections than in corrections themselves.
Sight the Buoys, Not the Splash In ocean races, you learn quickly that staring at the water right in front of you is pointless. You sight the buoy ahead, lock in your direction, and let the waves move around you. Investing works the same way. Your long-term plan is the buoy. The splash and churn around you are the headlines. It’s tempting to react to every dip. But the goal isn’t to dodge every wave. It’s to keep your line long enough to reach the finish. When you focus on the next buoy, the long-term goals for your family, your retirement, your future, you stop worrying about the swirl of short-term motion. Perspective beats prediction every time. The Real Power Is Staying In the Water When the ocean gets rough, some swimmers tense up. Others pause. The experienced ones stay steady. They shorten their stroke, breathe consistently, and keep moving. They know the chop will pass, and they trust the work they’ve put in. The same patience pays off in your financial life. Most wealth is built by staying invested, not by jumping in and out. The people who try to time every dip often miss the recovery. They get stuck waiting for the “right moment” that never feels right. Meanwhile, the market keeps moving without them.
Let the Market’s Waves Roll, and Keep Your Rhythm Market corrections can feel loud and unsettling, but they rarely change your long-term path. Like a rough stretch in an open-water swim, they’re temporary. You breathe, steady yourself, and keep your eyes on the next marker. Over time, every correction becomes just another story, another set of waves you moved through on the way to something bigger. Investors who stay focused and patient, who trust the long-term process the way athletes trust their training, are the ones who reach the finish line strongest. q
The content is developed from sources believed to provide 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. Consult with a financial professional regarding your specific situation.
In a year that will long be remembered as a turning point in our community’s civic life, the Sephardic Community Federation (SCF) led an extraordinary effort to mobilize, register, and empower the Sephardic community as never before. What began as a bold voter registration drive this summer evolved into a historic show of unity and influence that has now firmly established our community as a powerful voice in New York politics.
From Vision to Historic Results The voter registration campaign was spearheaded by Haim Dabah, Marshall Aronow, and Jimmy Salame alongside Senator Sam Sutton and SCF leaders Ronnie Tawil, Eddie Esses, Joey Saban, Joe Mansour, Charles Chakkalo, and Sari Setton. They worked alongside the ground team led by Linda Ebani and Rebecca Harary and a phone banking team led by Pascale Kamagi. The campaign began with an inspiring meeting in August at Haim Dabah’s home in Deal, NJ. That evening, leaders from our schools, synagogues, and institutions gathered to launch what would become a movement. Meaningful funding was raised on the spot, and a clear mission was set—to ensure that every member of our community was registered to vote and ready to make their voice heard. Through tireless coordination and daily meetings, the SCF and its partners carried out a sweeping, multifaceted campaign that included rabbinical proclamations, registration mandates in schools and synagogues, door-to-door outreach, community event tables, and an extensive text-banking program. The results were truly historic: approximately 15,000 new community members registered to vote, raising the total number of registered community voters from about 25,000 to about 40,000. While an estimated 15,000 community members remain unregistered, the SCF continues its work to reach and register every eligible voter.
Record-Breaking Turnout The impact of this effort was felt immediately. In the November citywide elections, 43,911 voters turned out in Midwood/Flatbush and our community recorded the large majority of these voters—likely surpassing any previous turnout in our history, including major presidential elections. Total community turnout tripled compared to the previous city election, and our early voting numbers ranked among the top three districts in all of New York City. The data tells a powerful story: four of the five highest-performing districts for Andrew Cuomo were areas that include our community. This demonstrated beyond doubt that the Sephardic community has become one of the most organized and potent voting blocs in New York. Elected officials across the city and state have taken notice. Beyond the mayoral race, the community’s influence was reflected strongly as every other SCF endorsed candidate won their race, including Councilmembers Simcha Felder and Inna Vernikov, both longtime friends of our community, as well as Comptroller-elect Mark Levine, a strong ally.
Influence in Action The strength of our new civic presence became clear just days after the election. On November 5th, when swastikas were found in front of Magen David Yeshivah, State Senator Sam Sutton and District Leader Joey Saban immediately mobilized state leaders and organized a press conference within hours. They were joined by a large group of elected officials—including Governor Kathy Hochul and Senate Deputy Leader Mike Gianaris —who announced $20 million in new security funding for religious schools. This extraordinary response did not happen by chance. It was the product of over two decades of relationship-building by the SCF and its partners, alongside the hard work of Teach NYS, which was founded by the SCF to advocate for our yeshivot and institutions. This is what real influence looks like—when our voice is heard, our concerns are respected, and tangible results are delivered for our families.
Building Relationships and Securing the Future Immediately following the election, the SCF board members Joey Saban and Eddie Esses attended the Somos Conference in Puerto Rico, one of New York’s premier political gatherings attended by the majority of the city’s and state’s elected officials. There, they deepened existing relationships and built new ones with key decision-makers at the highest levels of government. The trip served as a powerful reminder of the incredible value of being in the room and the big things that can be accomplished for our community when we have a seat at the table.
The Road Ahead The groundwork laid this year will serve as the foundation for the years to come—especially as we look toward the 2026 statewide elections, which will include races for Governor, State Senate, State Assembly, and Congress. With the growing civic infrastructure built by the SCF, and with the possibility of one or two of our own community members appearing on the ballot, the next chapter of our political journey is poised to be even more significant. The transformation of the Sephardic community’s civic engagement in just a few short months is nothing short of extraordinary. Through the vision of Haim Dabah, Marshall Aronow, and Jimmy Salame, the leadership of the SCF and Linda Ebani, the unity of our institutions and Rabbis, and of course Hashem’s help, our community has demonstrated what is possible when we come together with purpose, strategy, and faith.
At the SBH Career Division, our mission is simple yet deeply impactful. To help every job seeker find confidence, direction, and meaningful opportunity. We believe that when one person rises, the entire community rises with them.
Our Passion to Help Every day, our dedicated team of professional job developers, résumé writers, and volunteer coaches walks into the Career Division with purpose. We understand that searching for work, whether you are just beginning your journey or navigating a career transition, can feel overwhelming. At SBH, no one walks alone. The voices of our clients speak powerfully to this care. One individual shared: “You really helped me out with my résumé and connecting me with job opportunities. I’m waiting to hear back from a few companies and have a second-round interview on Monday thanks to one of the connections you made. Thank you for your assistance through all this. Wishing you a happy and healthy new year. Shanah Tovah (a good year).” Messages like these affirm the impact of our work every single day.
Our Process: Step by Step, Side by Side From the moment someone reaches out, we take the time to listen, to goals, concerns, and even insecurities. We create a personalized plan, offer targeted support, and remain alongside our clients throughout their journey. One client expressed this experience with deep gratitude: “Sheri, I want to thank you for being so available and patient with me through this process. I believe you must have a degree in social work because you addressed many of my insecurities. May Hashem (G-D) continue to give you the words to help all who rely on you. You have a special gift.” This kind of trust is something we cherish and strive to earn every day.
We’re Here for You Our professionals do far more than match résumés to job postings. They are motivators, strategists, advocates, and emotional supports. Clients consistently feel seen, valued, and believed in. As one person shared: “Nathan treated me like his only client and genuinely cared about the mission of finding me a new role. SBH, and those who reach out, are fortunate to have him. Thank you.” This level of care is not the exception. It is our standard.
Our Volunteers: The Heartbeat of Our Division We are blessed with an extraordinary network of volunteer job coaches and retention coaches who give selflessly of their time, experience, and hearts. They mentor, encourage, and inspire, often continuing their support long after a placement is made. One client captured this sentiment perfectly: “Thank you for your assistance. I definitely appreciate that you’re on the other end trying to make things better for everyone.” Their gratitude reflects the lasting ripple effect created by our volunteers’ compassion.
Our Supportive Services To help clients thrive, the SBH Career Division offers a comprehensive range of services designed to support both immediate goals and long-term success:
Professional Résumé Writing One-on-one collaboration to create polished, impactful résumés that open doors.
Skills Training Interview preparation, workplace readiness, and confidence-building support.
Job Coaches Personalized guidance through the job search process, from applications to offers.
Retention Coaches Continued support after placement to ensure stability, growth, and success.
Young Professionals: Building the Future We are especially proud of our Young Professionals Program, which empowers the next generation through:
Internship placements that provide real-world experience.
Mentor-mentee relationships that inspire and guide.
Industry events and roundtables that build networks and open career paths. These initiatives equip young adults with confidence, direction, and opportunity. At the SBH Career Division, we believe in people. We believe in untapped potential, new beginnings, and the power of community members lifting one another up. Our staff and volunteers, job developers, résumé writers, coaches, and mentors, work every day with one shared mission. To help you succeed professionally, personally, and confidently. We’re here for you. Always. q
As Antisemitism surges, reclaiming the meaning of chosenness, without arrogance or apology, may be the key to Jewish unity and moral clarity.
For many Jews, the idea of the Jewish people as the “Chosen People” is deeply uncomfortable. It sounds like superiority, exclusion, or moral arrogance. So if it comes up at all, it is often immediately deflected: “It doesn’t mean we’re better than anyone else.” “It doesn’t really mean chosen.” “It just means Abraham chose G-D.” And yet, the idea persists, not only in Jewish texts, but in Jewish history. Every time Jews make a blessing on the Torah, they thank G-D for choosing them from among the nations. Not as a slogan, and not as a boast, but as a description of a relationship, a covenant that shaped a people and gave them a distinctive way of living in the world.
What does this idea of being chosen really mean? To be chosen never meant comfort or privilege. It meant responsibility and obligation. It meant living within a demanding moral and legal framework that governed every aspect of life, from commerce and family, to justice and time itself. Jewish distinctiveness was not theoretical; it was practiced, carried, argued over, and often paid for dearly. This identity survived exile, persecution, dispersion, and powerlessness because it was portable. A people could lose land, kings, armies, and still remain intact if their identity was anchored in law, memory, and mission. The rupture came with the Enlightenment. As Jews entered European society, emancipation came with a price. To be accepted, Jews had to stop thinking of themselves as a distinct nation with a unique mission and start thinking of themselves as a religious subgroup within someone else’s civilization. Chosenness became an embarrassment. Nationhood became dangerous. Particularism became suspect. So Jews began explaining themselves away, to others and eventually to themselves. The World Never Forgot Who We Are, Even When We Did While many Jews stopped believing in chosenness, the world never did. Christianity and Islam, the two largest religions on earth, are both built on the premise that G-D chose the Jewish people. They disagree on what happened afterward, but the starting point is shared: Abraham and his descendants were chosen to enter an everlasting covenant with G-D. Antisemites also never doubted Jewish distinctiveness. No one persecutes a people for being ordinary. The Jewish people, small in number and scattered across the globe, have remained unusually visible, influential, and contested. No one obsesses over a people who do not matter. The attention, admiration, resentment, and hostility directed toward Jews has always far exceeded their size. That obsession is the shadow side of significance. History keeps sending the same message, even when Jews refuse to read it: You are not just another people.
Chosenness Is Not Superiority, It Is Assignment The central misunderstanding of chosenness is the belief that it means being better than others. It never did. Chosenness means being tasked. It means being assigned a role in the moral development of humanity, to introduce ideas that were once revolutionary and are now taken for granted: the sanctity of human life, the dignity of the individual, the idea that power is morally accountable, that time itself can be sanctified, that law stands above kings. These ideas did not emerge spontaneously. They were carried, argued for, lived, and often paid for dearly, by a people who believed their national existence had meaning beyond survival.
Why This Matters Now We are living through a moment when Antisemitism is no longer whispered but shouted. When Jews are murdered for gathering as Jews. When Israel is singled out obsessively, Jews are again being reminded that invisibility is not an option. At moments like this, assimilation does not protect us. Silence does not protect us. Apology does not protect us. What has always protected the Jewish people is clarity of identity. Strength does not come from denying who we are. It comes from embracing it. Re-engaging with the idea of chosenness does not require instant belief or religious transformation. It begins with something quieter: the willingness to take Jewish identity seriously again, not as a source of embarrassment, but as a source of responsibility. Today, Jews are needed to stand taller, speak louder, and unite more fully as Jews. Taking Judaism seriously means moving forward, through learning or action, into the responsibility that has always defined the Jewish nation. q
