IN SOME SCHOOLS THE EDUCATION BEGINS AND ENDS IN THE CLASSROOM. OTHER SCHOOLS ADD EXTRACURRICULAR EDUCATIONAL AND SOCIAL ACTIVITIES. BUT BE’ER HAGOLAH DEMONSTRATED WITH THE ISRAEL MISSION THAT ONCE YOU’RE A STUDENT, YOU ARE IN THE BHI FAMILY FOR LIFE.

That is how Rabbi Tully Bryks, the director of admissions of Ohr Somayach described his impression after hosting the BHI alumni mission to Israel. Heavily subsidized by Olami International and Ohr Somayach, the BHI alumni mission brought together 19 young alumni for two weeks of jam-packed days filled with incredible activities, inspiring and uplifting Torah study, and new relationships that will last a lifetime.

The days began with praying, breakfast and Torah classes from the likes of Rabbi Yitzchak Breitowitz, Rabbi Yitzchak Greenblatt, Rabbi Dovid Kaplan, Rabbi Guy Matalon, and Rabbi Tully Bryks. These rabbis brought the Torah alive, explained many fundamental concepts and fanned the spark of Torah in the hearts of the young men, a number of whom are considering a year of full time Torah study in yeshiva in Israel.

In the afternoons, the boys had an opportunity to experience the width and breadth of the Holy Land. The first Shabbat was spent in Yerushalayim with the participation of the Dean, Rabbi Mordechai German and Rabbi Michoel Grunhut, a BHI high school rabbi. A special highlight was davening Friday night at the Kotel with thousands of Jews in unison.

Rabbi Mordechai Fishman, the Be’er Hagolah boys’ division principal, reported that one of the highlights was Shabbat in Tzefat. Seeing the kevarim of the tanaim (graves of rabbinical sages) brought the Torah learning alive. The tour of the Old City of Tzefat, gave the boys a sense of our history. The visits to nearby Meron and Amukah brought out the spark of connection with Hashem through the powerful tefilot. Kabalat Shabbat on a porch with the sun setting in the background made the radiance of Shabbat envelope everyone as they got swept up in song. After davening, they walked the streets of Tzefat and sang and danced with random Jews in the street. They ate the seudat Shabbat in an ancient room with an arched ceiling whose echoing of the tones of the zemirot (songs) Shabbat only added to the energy and feelings of Shabbat kodesh. They also saw the Abuhav and Arizals Shul as well as the famous Kivrei Tzadikim and Arizals mikveh.

Rabbi Bryks noted that these trips offer students a chance to connect with their soul. They ask deep questions as they grow in their connection to Hashem and find their place in Judaism. “This group was different from the typical group,” said Rabbi Bryks, “because the Be’er Hagolah students have a background in Judaism and Torah study to some extent, and they came as a cohesive group which allowed us to skip the first few ‘icebreaker’ days we usually have in these missions. You can see their affinity to their rabbis, and the strong mutual bond. They all wanted pictures with their Rosh Yeshiva, Rabbi German and they were all so proud for him to see their spiritual growth. Rabbi Fishman was there for them day and night. He served every role from educator to organizer and everything else in between. Judaism encompasses the spiritual, emotional and physical and you were able to see the support and ahavat Yisroel (love for fellew Jews) from all the BHI staff members. It was inspiring for us.”

The boys went ATVing, visited the Institute of Technology, toured the City of David, enjoyed eating out, and went shopping for souvenirs in Geulah.

Most importantly, they charged themselves with spiritual energy and deepened their connection with Hashem and His Holy Torah and Land.

ESTHER BETESH

ON THURSDAY EVENING, JULY 28TH, THE JUDAIC STUDIES TEACHERS-IN-TRAINING AT MELAMEDET HAD AN INCREDIBLE OPPORTUNITY TO GIVE BACK TO THE COMMUNITY. UP UNTIL THIS POINT, THEY HAD BEEN WORKING HARD THROUGHOUT THE PREVIOUS YEARS OF THE PROGRAM, TAKING COURSES RANGING FROM “TEACHING NAVI” TO “CURRICULUM DEVELOPMENT” TO “TECHNOLOGY IN THE CLASSROOM.”

They had heard from many leaders and teachers in the field of Jewish Education, observed a variety of classes, and practiced creating and giving their own classes to one another. On this meaningful night of Torah classes for the girls of our community, it was time to take everything that they had learned and give it all back. Thank G-d, we had such a successful event last summer, and this year once again the teachers-in-training were ready with detailed source sheets, positivity, love, and the desire to inspire and be true role models. Students from 5th grade all the way to high school came to the classes with enthusiasm, curiosity, and excitement, but what they left with was even more special.

The Melamedet teachers-in-training gave meaningful, interesting, and vibrant Torah classes. They captured hearts and minds, keeping their students engaged, involved, asking questions, and requesting that Melamedet offer more classes in the future. The Melamedet teachers-in-training left that night feeling grateful for the opportunity to give back.

The community girls left with a deeper love of Torah and a beautiful connection to amazing community role models.

Melamedet is blessed to be a part of the next generation of community educators in Jewish Education. We are looking forward to another amazing semester including some incredible new students this fall, Be’H (with G-d’s help)!

Here is what some of our students had to say about the beautiful night of learning:

Judy Elmann: “I thought last year’s class was too good to be true, but this year was just as enjoyable, if not more! As soon as I started teaching, the words just flowed out. The fifth and sixth grade girls who attended my class were thrilled to be there and participate even in the middle of the summer. It was so empowering to give such a successful class. I can’t wait for the next one, B”H!”

Sally Choueka: “Every summer brings new experiences, and I genuinely look forward to teaching the girls who attend our night of learning. After a year of learning new content and new skills, I was excited to give it my all. We learned, we talked, we discovered. I can’t wait for next year; thank you Melamedet for the platform!”

Mary Jajati: “What an honor learning Torah and teaching Torah to the special girls of our community! We’re so thankful for the opportunity; it was a pleasure!”

Eileen Dweck: “The night of learning was so special! I’m so grateful for the opportunity to teach in such a comfortable setting.”

We would like to add a special thank you to Bet Rachel Synagogue for hosting us.

Esther Betesh is the director of Melamedet, a teacher training program in Jewish education. She teaches at multiple community yeshivot and institutions, and is a doctoral candidate for Jewish education and administration at Yeshiva University.

SARINA ROFFÉ

WHEN COVID CAME TO THE WORLD, EVERYTHING CLOSED DOWN FOR TWO YEARS. NOBODY KNEW WHAT THE CONSEQUENCES WOULD BE IN SYNAGOGUES AND EDUCATIONAL INSTITUTIONS. FROM HIS HOME, RABBI SAM KASSIN, DEAN OF SHEHEBAR SEPHARDIC CENTER (SSC) IN JERUSALEM, CONTACTED PEOPLE WORLDWIDE WHO WERE INTERESTED IN BECOMING RABBIS AND EDUCATORS AND BUILT A PROGRAM FOR THEM.

He worked with Rabbi Yaakov Benizri to develop an online semicha program that lasted 18 to 24 months. Rabbi Benizri taught classes several times a week over Whatsapp, Youtube and Zoom. As a result, 16 outstanding students received their diplomas and began their work spreading Judaism throughout the world.

The graduation of these new rabbis was held on Monday, August 8th. The students came from India, Germany, Hungary, Singapore, Italy and the United States to receive their rabbinical ordination and celebrate at a gala dinner at Montefiore Hall in Jerusalem, a grand hall in the Old City overlooking the Western Wall.

Among the 200 plus people who attended were several of Israel’s chief rabbis, dignitaries, ministers, Knesset members and other top education leaders.

The new rabbis have been studying diligently during the past few years to earn their Rabbinical Degree so they can serve the Jewish people in their countries. Most of them are businessmen who wanted to get their ordination in order to go into Jewish education in their communities. In addition, seven Ethiopian students graduated as scribes.

At the end of the semicha ceremony, there was an explosion of unstoppable dancing among the attendees. People were very overjoyed about the occasion.

THE GRADUATES WHO TRAVELED TO JERUSALEM

Ricky Cohen, Brooklyn
Zac Gindi, Deal
Micha Yerushalmi, Hungary
Yochanan Canfield, Sarasota, FL
Maurice Zalta, USA
Netanel Yaacobov, Germany
David Hayak, Singapore
Benyamin Pereira, Colombia
Abi Bitton, New York

GRADUATES FROM ISRAEL WHO HAVE ALREADY BEEN PLACED IN COMMUNITIES

Akiva Ben Ezra, Durban, South Africa
Aryeh Attias, Albuefiira, Portugal
Simcha Rubinov, Queens, New York
Yosef Deil, Milano, Italy
Jonathan Goldschmidt, Philippines (formerly in Cochin, India)

Since its inception in 1980, the SSC has grown into a world renowned institution with an outstanding reputation for high quality programs. It has become a resource for Sephardic communities worldwide to identify rabbis, dayans, teachers, mohels, shochets and spiritual leadership.

Founded by Rabbi Sam Kassin with the help of Rabbi Eliyahu Shamoula A”H, the SSC yeshiva in the Old City has grown from a small kollel with 10 students into a thriving rabbinical school. It has grown in number, scope, reach and purpose into the present day Shehebar Sephardic Center and global outreach program that has placed over 400 rabbis.

Seen as the global source for Sephardic training, Rabbi Kassin fields calls and emails daily from Diaspora Jewish communities looking for rabbinic leadership to build a kahal, lead holiday services, to teach in a school, or to oversee the kashrut of a restaurant. Rabbi Kassin spends one third of his time traveling to visit communities, meeting the leadership and helping them identify a rabbi who fits their needs. No matter what the need, the SSC fills the void by sending its graduates to the remotest towns or the most highly populated cities, to serve and inspire the people there.

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

ON JULY 15TH, AFTER OVER A YEAR OF PLANNING, REVISING, AND BUILDING, THE COMMUNITY CELEBRATED THE BEAUTIFUL GRAND OPENING OF A NEW STATE-OF-THE-ART DENTAL PRACTICE, SAKA DENTAL SPA, LOCATED AT THE CHABAD OF THE SHORE, IN LONG BRANCH, NJ.

On this beautiful Friday morning, major pillars of the community, including Mayor John Pallone, Chief Rabbi Saul Kassin, Rabbi Label Shapiro, Harry Adjmi, Mark Massry, Gayle Krost, and Sammy Saka joined Dr. Saka in the ribbon cutting ceremony.

Dr. Sammy Saka is the creator and operator of Saka Dental Spa. His intent was not just to open a dental practice, rather he wanted to create an environment where patients look forward to sitting in the dental chair, rather than fearing it.

Dr. Saka is a Hillel Yeshiva High School graduate. He received his undergraduate degree in chemistry from Monmouth University and earned his Doctor of Dental Medicine degree from Rutgers School of Dental Medicine. Following dental school, he completed his one-year residency at Montefiore Medical Center in the Bronx.

After working for several years in Matawan, Dr. Saka decided it was time to represent his community and open his own practice a mile from his childhood home. With the establishment of Saka Dental Spa, Dr. Saka has created a luxury dental office in the heart of Long Branch with the intention of giving back to the people who have given so much.

Dr. Saka explained, “the community has given so much to me and represents something so close to all of us. To create an office in the heart of it all and to be given the opportunity to serve everyone is my life’s goal and passion.”

Saka Dental Spa is now open and seeing new patients. Make an appointment today. Call 732-800-9178, or visit their website at sakadentalspa.com.

DSN WENT INTERNATIONAL WITH A TEN-DAY HESED MISSION TO ISRAEL FOR YOUNG ADULTS. IT WAS A PHYSICAL, SPIRITUAL AND EMOTIONAL JOURNEY OF A LIFETIME.

DSN partnered with Camp Gesher, a day camp in Israel for the children of the Neve Michael Children’s Village in Pardes Hana. The village hosts at-risk children who have been removed from dysfunctional families due to various types of abuse or neglect. DSN’s young adults traveled across the globe to be camp counselors for the children.

Rabbi Chaim Levy, the founder of Camp Gesher, worked with DSN’s staff and a committee of young adults: Sonia Dweck, David Cohen, Henry Barnathan, Jill Mamiye and Joe Gindi to prepare for this historic trip.

One week before the trip, the young adults attended a barbeque orientation, hosted by Jill Mamiye. Rabbi Levy, who had traveled to Deal from Israel, spoke to them about the significant responsibilities of their upcoming trip, and at the same time assured them that they would have loads of fun. Eric Sigoura, DSN’s Director of Security, explained that he would be traveling with the group to ensure their safety and security.

Upon arrival at camp, each young adult was paired up with two campers. Then the fun started! Camp activities during the week included visiting Yarn Park Tel Aviv, Skytown Climbing, a water hike in Ein Chardalit, Superland Amusement Park in Rishon L’zion and Carnival Day, where all the counselors set up and volunteered at stations including foam blasting, face painting and bouncy slides. A beautiful Shabbat weekend in the heart of Jerusalem was arranged by DSN with catered meals.

Lydia Haddad, one of the young adults, decided to write down her feelings about the trip. Here’s what she wrote. “Growing up, I’ve always done some small acts of hesed. Whether it would be delivering food to people in need, taking a special child for ice cream, helping around my house or matching couples together, I never felt the feeling I did when taking care of my campers on the DSN Camp Gesher trip. Going into the trip, I really had no idea what to expect. Yes, I do have younger siblings, but I was never of age to take care of them. I knew that by accepting to volunteer on the trip, I was going to be taking care of kids and that made me quite nervous. But I also knew that whenever I put my mind, heart, and soul into something, I was always able to accomplished it. Before the trip, we were asked to choose the age group we wanted. I had the choice of taking care of kids from ages seven to nine or ages ten to twelve. I was placed with two beautiful 7 year old, female campers. On the first day, we walked into the camp to meet our campers. We played a little game where the campers had to look for us. They knew what color eyes we had, what hair color, what shoe size, and how tall we were. My campers, being the smart little girls they were, found me in just minutes. Meeting them and watching them run into my arms was a feeling I cannot even describe. After just one day, we exchanged phone numbers and sat together on the bus. I helped them overcome their moments of fear during activities, we taught each other Hebrew and English, I learned about their lives, we laughed together, cried together, ate together, danced together and so much more. When dropping them off at camp at the end of day one, I already couldn’t wait to go back the next day to see them run into my arms again. Being an adolescent, it is very hard to wake up early. But once my alarm went off, I was up and out of bed ready to make a change in my campers’ lives. As days went on, we became closer and closer. We learned more about each other and created amazing memories together. In a blink of an eye, I realized I never wanted to leave them. I went from being nervous about taking care of kids, to wishing that the trip would last forever. Not only did I never want to leave my campers, but I also didn’t want to leave all of the new friends I made, including Rabbi Levy. The reason we all felt so connected was because of the mindset Rabbi Levy taught us from day one. He was open, honest, caring and made us feel like we were home. That being said, since I returned home, I have not missed a day speaking and FaceTiming with my beautiful campers. This trip made me realize the important things in life. Not only did we do hesed, but we all learned about ourselves in ways we’d never thought. If I could go back in time and do it all over again, I would. But of course, that is not an option so—until next year!

After the trip, the bonds between all the young adults continued to grow and flourish. Lydia Haddad hosted a mazza at her house only three days after the trip! The group learned about themselves and grew in unexpected, beautiful ways. Another participant, Lydia Cohen, explained, “This trip was truly a life changing experience. I am grateful to DSN and Gesher for giving us the opportunity to learn, grow and help find the right balance in our lives!”

By the time it was all over, Rabbi Levy was ecstatic with the results. “There is nothing more fulfilling than seeing the young adults of today take ownership of something and make a difference. That’s what happened on this trip. Forty-two young adults became one unit—an army of hesed.”

Sammy Sitt, DSN’s Executive Director, summarized. “It was truly an honor for DSN to arrange this most special trip. We provided our young adults with an exhilarating experience where they not only helped others who are less fortunate, but they learned about the potential of their own capabilities. We are very proud of each of them. With Hashem’s help, we continue to see that there are no boundaries to what DSN can do to make our community the best in the world!”

ARI BAUM CFP®

WE KNOW RECESSIONS ARE INEVITABLE. WHEN THEY HAPPEN, THE SCARY NEWS IS BLASTING ON CABLE 24/7. YOUR FRIENDS, NEIGHBORS, AND COLLEAGUES MIGHT PANIC ONCE THEY SEE THEIR PORTFOLIOS DROPPING, AND TO MAKE MATTERS WORSE—IT’S UNLIKELY THAT THE NEXT RECESSION WILL LOOK LIKE THE LAST ONE—SO HOW DO YOU KNOW WHAT TO EXPECT?

To the savvy (and well-prepared) investor, a recession can be a financial gift. They allow prices to pull back and bubbles to deflate. Smart investors have the chance to buy on sale, taking advantage of bargains when others panic, selling because they weren’t prepared.

The market bottom of the last pre-pandemic recession was March 9, 2009, but no one knew that at the time. For all investors knew, the market had farther to fall. We only know that was the bottom in hindsight.

It’s not likely to be high-flying dot-com stocks or the financial sector that take the economy down next time. What will it be? No one knows for sure, but whatever it is, it’s coming.

The good news in all the uncertainty is something wealthy individuals have long known: there are juicy opportunities hiding in the dips. Easy to say, but what about when the next recession arrives?

The trick is to keep your head level and stay alert. When you have the right tools, it’s possible to seize opportunities to make money and avoid the ugly mistakes that average investors tend to make during hard times.

Escape Lever #1: How exposed are you?
If you’re early in your working career and all of your investments are designated for retirement, you’re able to ride out the inevitable recession with a portfolio that’s entirely invested for growth. You just have to avoid panicking and selling out.

In this case, you’re a couple of decades away from needing the money. Staying invested through a nasty experience like the Great Recession, can potentially lead to a much larger portfolio later when markets recover.

On the other hand, if you’re closer to retirement, you can’t afford for your entire portfolio to drop right when you need to start withdrawing money. That means having some money in other assets like cash and bonds.

Escape Lever #2: Flex your flexibility
When it comes to buying cars, clothes, and even vacations, what are the three magic words all purchasers love to hear? “It’s on sale.” Yet too many investors start pushing the panic button and selling when the stock market goes on sale.

Stock dips (and yes, crashes) are the time to scoop up some potential bargains. To paraphrase Warren Buffett, be greedy when others are fearful and fearful when others are greedy.

Just make sure that you’ve still got your cushions against the freefall of the market. Don’t deplete your protection against stock market dips. Keep your hedges intact and your income flowing.

Ugly Mistake #1: Investing with your heart and not your head
Contrary to popular belief, acting like an ostrich and sticking your head in the sand may not be a bad way to deal with a recession! It helps to ignore the financial news because it’s going to be full of gloom and doom in a recession.

Many investors turn paper losses into real ones by making the mistake of panicking and selling at the wrong time—after prices have already started dropping. When recessions arrive, it’s easy to be paralyzed by fear and stop investing completely. This happens even to smart people!

Wealthy investors know that it’s too easy to get caught up in the fear around a recession, and so they hire professionals who have been through recessions to help prevent them from leaping off the ledge. They also diversify their portfolios when necessary, so that they can sleep at night knowing that a stock market drop won’t wipe out the value of their portfolio.

It’s very easy to get greedy when prices are rising and fearful when prices are falling. But smart investors find ways to stay out of the fray so they can focus on building wealth for themselves.

Ugly Mistake #2: Going it alone
When recessions arrive, things can get really ugly very quickly. It’s hard to tell exactly when the recession has arrived, since the economic data takes a while. Market drops don’t always predict a recession, either. Is a one-day market drop just the start of a massive plummet to the bottom—or is it just a blip?

Doing it yourself looks fine when prices are on the upswing, because a rising tide lifts all boats, but when the seas get rough, and your portfolio may be threatening to overturn during the onslaught, experienced deckhands can help keep you afloat.

You may notice that wealthy investors ask for help all the time! They have dedicated financial professionals to help them navigate when the economy gets choppy. They’re not trying to figure everything out by themselves, because they recognize when they don’t know what they may need to know.

The content is developed from sources believed to be providing accurate information; no warranty, expressed or implied, is made regarding accuracy, adequacy, completeness, legality, reliability, or usefulness of any information. Consult your financial professional before making any investment decision. Risk Disclosure: Investing involves risk including the potential loss of principal. No investment strategy can guarantee a profit or protect against loss. Past performance does not guarantee future results.

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

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

Brokerage and Advisory accounts carried by Wells Fargo ClearingServices, LLC.

A GREAT DAY TRIP

NATALIE SENIOR GREENBERG

ARE YOU EAGER TO SPEND SOME TIME OUTDOORS, AWAY FROM THE CITY THIS SUMMER? A VISIT TO STORM KING ART CENTER, MAKES A GREAT OUTDOOR DAY TRIP FROM NEW YORK CITY. IT’S ONLY AN HOUR AND A HALF AWAY.

Storm King is an extraordinary 500-acre open-air art museum, filled with large-scale sculptures that bring nature and art together in a very unique setting. The scenery is absolutely magnificent, and no matter what time of year you decide to visit, the fields, meadows, hills, woodlands and the artwork will delight and surprise you. Whether you are a fan of contemporary art or you’re seeking an outdoor adventure, Storm King has it all.

Storm King features more than 100 sculptures by major international artists such as Alexander Calder, Isamu Noguchi, Sol Lewitt and David Smith. The relationship between art and nature is a focus for the center.

You have the choice of walking from exhibit to exhibit or taking a shuttle which runs every half hour and will show you some of the highlights of the collection. The grounds are divided into four sections North Woods, Museum Hill, Meadows and South Fields, each defined by the type of natural area where it is located.

Don’t leave your cell phone in the car, because there is a free online audio guide is available, so you can learn more about the composition, materials, artist and inspiration behind the pieces in Storm King’s outdoor gallery. The site is easy to access.

Many of the sculptures at Storm King are “Site Specific.” This means that the artist was asked to create a sculpture especially for the site where it is located, the space and position. When a sculpture is labeled “Site Specific,” it cannot be moved, sold or placed anywhere else. It must remain in the spot it was designed for, or it will become a different work of art. So while you wander through the park, imagine that you are an artist and you were asked to create an artwork for Storm King. Would you choose a meadow, a lawn, a wetlands area or a wooded area? Try to visualize how each type of topography would affect the type of sculpture created for that particular space.

In addition to the natural areas of woodland, field, wetlands, lawns, grasses and water, some of the landscape at Storm King is sculpted or altered to accommodate and enhance the collection. These manipulations of the landscape encourage movement through the site and sometimes frame vistas or the artwork themselves, lending to a more enjoyable viewing experience.

Children will love Storm King! It is wonderful to be strolling and then to see a sculpture “pop up” in a vista over a ridge and to experience the artwork through a child’s eyes. (Just make sure that your children know not to touch the artwork).

It’s best to arrive early in the day, because the parking lot fills up quickly, especially on the weekends. In order to enhance your experience, plan to spend at least a few hours at Storm King, wear comfortable shoes, bring a picnic and plenty of water. There are designated areas where you are allowed to eat. It’s also a good idea to bring insect repellent, since you will be outside all day.

There have been many new sculptures added during the last few years. The landscape is always changing, so if you have been to Storm King, it’s time for another visit, as there are many new sculptures to see. Storm King is located in the town of Cornwall, New York; about 1½ hours drive from Brooklyn. It is open Wednesdays through Mondays, from 10 A.M. to 5:30 P.M. You should purchase advanced tickets from the Storm King website: Stormking.org. Enjoy your visit!

Natalie Senior Greenberg is a Brooklyn College Art History professor, and the founder, curator and owner of an online art gallery.

MELANIE KISHK

THE RECENT SPIKE IN INTEREST RATES CAUSES SOME SELLERS AND BUYERS TO PANIC AND SOME TO SHRUG. AS A RESULT, MANY PEOPLE OUTSIDE THE REAL ESTATE INDUSTRY, WHO MAY NOT BE BUYING AND SELLING PROPERTIES DAILY, START ASKING WHETHER NOW IS STILL AN EXCELLENT TIME TO BUY OR SELL A PROPERTY. WITH SOME MINIMAL QUALIFICATIONS, THE ANSWER IS STILL A RESOUNDING “YES!”

When it costs more to borrow money, buyers get nervous, which is understandable. No one wants to find out their mortgage payment has suddenly jumped up before they even find a house. But, at the same time, anyone buying a home should expect some market fluctuation during their search. Sometimes it works more in favor of sellers, sometimes buyers. There is, however, good news for patient buyers.

Inventory remains relatively low, but sellers cannot expect to be inundated with multiple offers the day their house hits the market. In addition, buyers faced with increased interest rates are more discerning when homes become available, particularly those buyers able to pay in cash or substantially reduce their borrowed amount. As a result, houses may remain on the market for longer than they would have at the market’s peak, but buyers still need to act with deliberate speed when they find the right property.

Sellers have reason to be optimistic, too. The number of houses on the market is still historically low, so buyers will not wait forever before making an offer. In addition, sellers willing to keep a listing updated and be realistic about their asking price are still in the catbird seat. No one wants to wait to pounce on a great house once it hits the market, because they know it won’t last long.

So, what’s the bottom line for buyers and sellers? There is no need to feel caught between paralysis and panic, even with interest rates creeping upwards. Whether in the market for a new home or selling a house you’ve loved for a long time, take a breath and step back. Work with your trusted realtor and ask for his/her advice. You’ll find the right house or the right buyer before you know it.

Century 21’s Melanie Kishk is a full-time Broker/Owner. Her team consists of top performing real estate agents serving Brooklyn, New York and the surrounding communities.

RABBI EZRA MAX

AS WE APPROACH ELUL AND THE JEWISH NEW YEAR, IT’S A TIME FOR REFLECTION AND INTROSPECTION. THE CHALLENGE IS THAT WE’RE HUMAN AND NO HUMAN WILL EVER BE PERFECT. IN FACT, EVEN THE MOST PIOUS TZADDIK WILL STUMBLE ALONG THE PATH OF LIFE. YOU MAY NOT FEEL LIKE THE MOST PIOUS JEW, AND YET, YOU JUST MIGHT BE. IT DEPENDS ON HOW YOU RELATE TO YOUR MISSTEPS ALONG THE WAY.

THE KEY IS TO KNOW WHERE YOU’RE HEADED
• Define your purpose as best you can.
• Know your values as they are your moral compass.
• Make choices that are in sync with this purpose based on your true values.
• Take steps towards achieving this purpose.
• Nurture yourself along the way.

It is important to remember that it is impossible to always get it all correct, and still always strive to do so. We know that whatever hishtadlus (personal effort) you make, whichever direction a person is headed, you are guided there with divine assistance.

We also know that Satan tries to convince us to give up hope, not believe in ourselves and feel depressed, hurt and lost. This is important to Satan because when we feel down, lost, hurt, lonely, and broken, then we feel like there’s no point—there’s no use in striving for more or to be better.

So, we don’t even attempt to improve. And this, my friend, is the biggest travesty. Because as long as you and I are alive, we always have a choice. We have a choice to take one step forward, an option to make amends, and a choice to improve and do what the Torah instructs us. You also can choose not to.

For example, my client Isaac is a young business owner with a team of about 26. He is building his business. He is clear about his market, the opportunities, the customers he wants to serve and the value he wants to create for them. Suddenly he is facing a huge dilemma. He can cheat a vendor and make a few extra bucks, or he can highlight the vendor’s mistake and maybe even take a loss. It’s a tough choice and it’s a choice that will have a lasting impact.

Most things in life are “caught, not taught.” Suppose Isaac makes a choice to cheat his vendor. In this case, it will potentially begin a downward spiral of becoming a dishonest businessman. Ultimately, he will not be happy with himself and will never believe in his own success. His neshama (soul) will always feel like he cheated his way to profitability.

Isaac made the tough choice. He made the correct choice. He said, ”My parnassa (income) was determined and sealed from Rosh Hashanah to Rosh Hashanah. This amount is not going to change without prayer and charity. Shady business and stealing will not increase my income and I can’t trick the Almighty. I prefer to be honest in business and stand tall and proud in my choices and relationships.”

This year, as Isaac approaches Elul and Rosh Hashanah He said, ”It was a challenging year and I feel fantastic about myself, the team and the business we are building.” He recognized a little dark side of himself and knows that he might be tempted again in the future. He prays that he will continue to make correct decisions. He took the high road because, at the end of the day, he wants to know that he did business honestly for himself, with his employees, his customers and vendors. He can sleep at night knowing that he made a Kiddush Hashem.

The economy seems to be crashing and it looks like we’re headed for a bumpy road ahead. Know this dear friend, Hashem is always in charge and running the show. Nothing is too big for him to handle. It’s all just a test for you and me. Hashem has enough money, and ways to send it, for us to all be wealthy. There’s absolutely no reason to do something we shouldn’t, even when times are tough. During economic dips, it’s crucial to keep your head above water to maintain your faith and be hopeful. Keep to the basics, pray, give charity and do acts of kindness to keep the cycle of giving and receiving healthy.

Remember this, during down economies, some people become millionaires and billionaires. I pray this will be you.

With Rosh Hashanah almost upon us, I’m asking myself—and you—these questions.
• What are you going to accomplish?
• Who are you going to become this year?
• How will you positively impact the world next year?

Here are some coaching tips to best find clarity and answer these questions. Ask yourself:
• Where have I been successful in the past?
• What are my unique skills and abilities?
• How can I best bring them forward into the world?

You were born to be amazing, great and to do something phenomenal in this world. It won’t come without some stress and struggle. As you develop the muscles to overcome struggles, you will discover you are stronger than you ever imagined. Tough times create strong men and women. Yes, you can, and you will do anything you put your mind to. You just need to try and put your best foot forward.

Wishing you a year filled with success, happiness, good fortune, insight and the wisdom to make the best choices at every juncture.

Mazal & Bracha.

Rabbi Ezra Max, PCC, MHMP, Xchange Guide & Creator of “The Max Method” assists businesses and professionals deal with stress and achieve success. Rabbi Max has witnessed 20 years of results helping executives, parents and teens overcome struggles, improve communication and thrive. He lives in New York with his wife and five children.

THE 8TH ANNUAL HATZALAH CARNIVAL WAS BIGGER AND BETTER THAN EVER BEFORE. IT WAS A DAY OF FUN FOR THE ENTIRE FAMILY. NOT ONLY WERE THERE RIDES, GAMES AND PRIZES, THERE WAS A PETTING ZOO, A DUNK TANK, FACE PAINTING AND SO MUCH MORE. EVERYWHERE YOU LOOKED THERE WERE SMILING FACES. AS ALWAYS, THERE WAS DELICIOUS FOOD WHICH INCLUDED BBQ, POPCORN, ICES AND COTTON CANDY. ALL PROCEEDS WENT TO HATZALAH OF THE JERSEY SHORE.

ON JULY 7TH, MORE THAN 150 WOMEN GATHERED AT THE KASSIN BEACH CLUB IN LOCH ARBOUR TO ENJOY A DAY FOCUSED ON HEALTH AND WELLNESS. THE COMPLETE MIND-BODY EXPERIENCE, SPEARHEADED BY LIAT KASSIN AND DSN ADULT CHAIRPERSON SONIA COHEN, INCLUDED COMPLIMENTARY CLASSES AND SERVICES, AS WELL AS A DELICIOUS LUNCH.

When it was over, Liat was super-thrilled at its success. “The turnout was amazing. It was a truly special day,” she enthused.

Among the highlights of the sensational day were wellness classes which took place every half hour. Some were movement classes, while others were informative, but all were interactive and inspiring. At eleven o’clock, Nomi Simhon kicked things off with a yoga class, followed by Sally Franco, CPC ELI-MP, who spoke about embodying confidence, fulfillment and joy. Rena Shaab, NTP, then made a hydration cocktail to taste, and shared the many benefits of proper hydration. Sarah Kassin, RD, discussed the secrets to longevity through food. Fortune Abadi, fitness instructor and doula, along with Dr. Allison Ankeiwicz, DPT, gave a meaningful talk on core strength. Sari Dana shared her enthusiasm and fitness with high energy movement, music and mantras. Allegra Mamiye, CPCC, ACC, performed visualization exercises with her participants, and Andree Braha spoke about the health benefits of flowers and gardening.

Participants also had an opportunity to feel both invigorated and pampered with a variety of services such as facials, massages, eyebrow services, dermaplaning, and the CHI machine (a passive aerobic exercise device). Juice Theory provided a gourmet lunch with healthy alternatives such as lettuce salads, pasta salads, quinoa salads, wraps, juices, and smoothies. There were also Healthy Whatever bites by Tunie Deutsch and Rook coffee.

To round out the day’s enjoyment, vendors were on hand to offer wellness products for purchase. Roots and Remedies displayed products for a cleaner and easier life. Naturally by Grace offered natural beauty products. Drip Heal presented discounted IV “Hot Shots.” Essentially Everything displayed Doterra Products. USO Original Jewelry sold handmade jewelry, and Garden to Table Flowers put out magnificent bouquets for Shabbat.

The afternoon was simultaneously tranquil and exhilarating. Caleigh Silvera, DSN Adult Program Director, received many messages in response. “People called, talking about the quality of the event, calling it an A+, and asking DSN to do it again.” Jaclyn Bailey shared, “This was the best day ever. Is there a DSN suggestion box? If so, I am suggesting we do this every summer! I wish I could suggest that we do it every week!” Sylia Aboudi remarked, “The day exceeded my expectations. I walked away so zen and peaceful.” Suzy Kishk scored the day a “ten out of ten,” while instructor Sally Franco felt that it was “a blessing to be part of it.” Elana Ades summed it up well. “DSN did a perfect job and no stone was left unturned. This is the DSN standard.”

VICTOR COHEN

MORESHET, THE WORD IS LOOSELY TRANSLATED INTO ENGLISH AS HERITAGE. ON JULY 6TH, AFTER SIX YEARS OF BUILDING, YESHIVAT MORESHET YERUSHALAYIM LIVED UP TO ITS NAME, CELEBRATING ITS OWN MORESHET WITH A SHOW-STOPPING ALUMNI DINNER.

Yeshivat Moreshet Yerushalayim recently turned six. Since it opened, each year has built upon the last in terms of quality and attendance, and now Moreshet has skyrocketed to over 120 alumni. For a new Yeshiva, exclusive to the Sephardic communities of Brooklyn and Deal, 120 alumni over six years is a momentous achievement.

Like any achievement, it needed to be celebrated. And it was, last month. All the alumni of Moreshet gathered together to celebrate how far they had come as a Yeshiva and to orient themselves towards the future in a more unified, proactive manner.

The air was electrifying, as the current of Moreshet coursed through all the alumni present. People with no connection at all, welded together through the glue of Moreshet, coming out of the night as a family.

Moreshet, to these young men of our community, is a family. Everyone could feel the unity connecting them all, a unification exemplified through an alum from the most recent year, Jacob Mosseri. Jacob was the host of the night; the alumni dinner took place in his backyard. He felt comfortable inviting people to his home, who he did not know, all because they went to the same Yeshiva a few years before he did.

Jacob and his family made the alumni dinner as elegant and celebratory as possible, with spectacular food and poignant decorations. Themes of blue and white, reminiscent of their time in Israel, permeated the scenery through the tables, chairs, and even the napkins. It was a high-quality event. the purpose to why they were all there weaving its way through each and every attendee.

Several speakers, some alumni, some rabbis, others community leaders, highlighted just how impactful the past six years have been. Moreshet anchored itself to every level of our community. The speeches by the alumni focused on both looking back and looking forward. They looked back, praising those who built up Moreshet Yerushalayim over the years. Then they looked forward, placing emphasis on their newest mission—positively impacting the community they all grew up in.

Jacob Mosseri put it best, “I believe that as the alumni of Moreshet, we have a mission. Our mission is to guide our community in the direction Moreshet has guided us—living a life of Torah, while also providing for our families.”

He later reiterated this point, “I think it’s time for us to apply the values that were instilled in us when we were in Israel and take action.” Action seemed to be the second theme of the night, the other purpose as to why the alumni gathered together.

The rabbis gave brilliant speeches as well. Hacham Shimon Alouf eloquently laid out the challenges and contradictions of today’s society, insisting that these young men have the tools to truly right some of the wrongs of today.

Rabbi Harold Sutton heartfeltly expressed how Moreshet Yerushalayim exceeded all of his expectations, and how he was so proud of each and every one of the alumni who graduated from his Yeshiva.

Rabbi Shaul Kassin touched on the bigger picture. He had this to say about how Moreshet changed people’s perceptions of what it means to go to Israel, “When they hear it from young men who are accomplishing, from beautiful young men, it has an impact.”

Finally, larger-than-life leaders of the community spoke, including Ezra Ashkenazi and Harry Adjmi. Mr. Ashkenazi spoke of the Yeshiva’s beginnings and how Rabbi Harold Sutton, against all odds, persuaded everyone to join his vision. The message was clear—if you have a dream, if you have a vision—go for it.

Mr. Adjmi’s thoughts about defining a leader in this community was particularly inspiring. He stressed that the greatest leaders should actually be called ‘doers,’ and praised the rabbis of Moreshet for doing what they set out to do, even exceeding their own expectations.

The Moreshet Yerushalayim Alumni Dinner was filled to the brim with inspiration, excitement, and moving words of unity, as a group of community boys connected through a budding Yeshiva in Israel are currently blossoming into something more, something greater. I for one am grateful to watch that metamorphosis, and cannot wait to see how Yeshivat Moreshet Yerushalayim evolves in the years to come.

Victor Cohen is a graduate of Hillel Yeshiva Class of 2021, Moreshet Yerushalayim 2022, and he is currently enrolled in Baruch College.