MINDFUL EATING NEW DIRECTIONS

MARY ANNE COHEN LCSW, BCD

MANY WOMEN, MEN, AND TEENS STRUGGLE WITH FOOD AND EATING AND OFTEN FEEL A GREAT DEAL OF BODY DISSATISFACTION. WHILE EVERYONE’S STRUGGLE IS DIFFERENT, EATING DISORDERS ARE VERY WIDESPREAD IN THIS DAY AND AGE.

WHAT ARE EATING DISORDERS?

Eating disorders refer to binge eating, bulimia, or anorexia. Binge eating describes a person who overeats because of emotional stress not physical hunger. Bulimics binge on food but then make themselves get rid of it through vomiting, laxatives, or excess exercise. Anorexics willfully choose to starve themselves. However, many people struggle with eating problems without falling into those categories.

Although the binge eater, bulimic and anorexic each deal with food in different ways—through overeating, purging, or starving—they all share one thing in common: the fear of being fat. This is the common denominator for everyone with an eating disorder.

WHAT CAUSES EATING DISORDERS?

Everybody is different. But the three most common causes of eating disorders are:

Cultural & Social Pressure: There is a saying that you can never be too rich or too thin, and it is this wish to be thin—or thinner—that causes people anxiety with food and weight. The media, advertising, and Hollywood all present an idealized picture that in order to be happy you must be thin. The media breeds within us perpetual dissatisfaction about how we look. That’s how they sell products!

Emotional Stress: When people have not directly faced their upsetting emotions, they often detour them through food. After all, food is legal, available, cheap, and comforting. Anxiety, depression, grief, rejection, loneliness, anger, guilt, sexual issues, or unresolved trauma can all contribute to turning to food or away from it as a way to soothe these strong emotions.

Starting A Diet: Dieting is considered the gateway to all eating disorders! A diet instructs you what you can and cannot eat in the name of weight loss. Diets set up a vicious cycle where first you are “good” by restricting your food and obeying the diet. Then feelings of deprivation invariably set in, then you will break out of the restrictions by bingeing, followed once again by committing to an even stricter diet to get yourself back on track. For people who are emotional eaters, dieting will always backfire.

How can people get better?

For people who have struggled with eating, weight, dieting, and body image, specialized therapy for emotional eating can be the path to healing.

Specialized therapy includes a two prong approach.

1. The therapist helps people improve their destructive eating behaviors, habits and negative thought patterns that can keep them stuck; this is called behavioral/cognitive therapy.
2. In addition, the therapist will help clients discuss the emotional issues that have driven them to use food as a stress reliever and help them find solutions to tackle these problems directly; this is psychotherapy.

Integrating behavioral plus emotional work can help people get back on track with food, eating, weight, and body image.

The process of therapy is a journey of self-exploration. It has been called “the talking cure.” With self-compassion, patience and perseverance, you can achieve success and overcome your eating problems.

If you struggle with food and eating, take this 15 question screening tool:

1. Is your self-esteem based on how much you weigh?
2. Are you preoccupied with how much you eat and how many calories you consume?
3. Do you ever avoid social engagements because you worry about not looking good enough?
4. Do you find yourself frequently dieting only to “fall off the wagon?”
5. Have you ever made yourself throw up to get rid of food?
6. Do you push yourself to excess exercise?
7. Do you restrict your eating but never feel thin enough?
8. Do you believe your life would be better if only you were thinner?
9. Do you go on eating binges?
10. Have you ever used diet pills, laxatives, or diuretics to get rid of calories?
11. Do you feel guilty after eating?
12. Do you feel food controls your life?
13. Do you have any secrets about food and eating that you’d be ashamed if anyone knew?
14. Do you often feel fat?
15. Are there things in your life that are making you feel depressed or anxious? And do you turn to or away from food at those times?
    Answering yes to one or more of these questions may indicate that you have a problem with food and body image.

MEND (Mindful Eating New Directions) is a new community initiative to help people like you. Food, eating, and weight are significant issues in our community, and MEND wants to help. You are not alone!
We will work with you to:
• Custom tailor an individual approach for
your unique needs.
• Help you get control for your eating
back inside yourself.
• Develop and maintain healthy eating patterns.
• Regain body confidence.
• Unlock what may be keeping you stuck
in your eating problems.

Schedule an initial assessment with MEND, and we’ll help you determine if you can benefit from treatment. To start a confidential conversation about your eating, please contact us. Your contact with us is absolutely confidential.

Please feel free to call (718) 336-MEND
MEND is a division of The Safe Foundation.

Mary Anne Cohen, LCSW, BCD is Director of The New York Center for Eating Disorders since 1982. She is also author of French Toast for Breakfast: Declaring Peace with Emotional Eating and Lasagna for Lunch: Declaring Peace with Emotional Eating. Mary Anne has hosted her own radio show on eating disorders, appears frequently on national television, and is the professional book reviewer for EDReferral.com, the largest international resource for eating disorders.

LAURA SHAMMAH MS, RDN

SHOPPING FOR AND PREPARING SNACKS FOR SCHOOL CAN BE DIFFICULT FOR ANYONE—EVEN A DIETITIAN. PEOPLE EXPECT MY CHILDREN TO GO TO SCHOOL WITH ONLY FRUITS AND VEGETABLES, BUT I BELIEVE THAT CAN BE EMOTIONALLY DAMAGING. I TRY TO SEND FRUIT, VEGETABLES AND SOME LESS HEALTHY SNACKS—OTHERWISE KNOWN AS JUNK FOOD. HOWEVER, I AM CAREFUL WITH WHICH JUNK FOODS I BUY. I ALLOW MY KIDS TO BRING INDIVIDUAL SNACKS OF THEIR CHOICE, ALTHOUGH I DO NOT BUY SNACKS WITH MSG.

Each year, each child and each school brings different challenges that I try to do my best to overcome. I try not to pressure my kids because food shouldn’t be a source of worry for any child or family. I aim to be creative, consistent, and calm.

My goals for this year were to try to have all snacks and lunches prepared the night before and to have each child ready on time so they could eat the healthy breakfasts that I prepare—and pray they don’t miss the bus.

I allow my kids to make their own decisions about what foods go into their bodies. I educate them, but I don’t pressure them. I believe the bigger you make the issue of eating healthy foods, the more resistance they may feel—so, I try to play it cool and you should too.

ARE YOU PUTTING TOO MUCH PRESSURE ON YOUR KIDS TO EAT RIGHT? RELAX!

Food shouldn’t be a source of worry for your family. Try to get your kids to eat healthier, but be creative, consistent, and calm. It can take 10 to 15 times before a child will decide to try or like something new. If it doesn’t work the first time, try a different approach, a new way to prepare and disguise the food, and, again, remember the importance of doing this in slow, small steps. Have patience and try to remember that the psychological damage may be worse than the physiological.

BE AWARE OF WHAT’S IN THE SNACKS YOU BUY

As I said, I let my children choose the snacks they take to school. I don’t mind sending chips, however they must not contain Monosodium Glutamate (MSG), a flavor enhancer commonly added to Chinese food, canned vegetables, soups and processed meats, veggie burgers, chips, canned beans, bullion cubes, dried soup mixes, salad dressings and many other junk foods.

Many people do not tolerate MSG well. It can cause headaches, flushing, sweating, facial pressure or tightness, numbness, tingling or burning in the face, neck and other areas, rapid, fluttering heartbeats (heart palpitations), chest pain, nausea, weakness, and/or liver damage. In addition studies show that MSG may cause weight gain by damaging the appetite regulation center in the area of the brain, causing leptin resistance. It can even cause brain damage in children, because a child’s brain is four times more sensitive than an adult’s.

Unfortunately, foods rarely list MSG as an ingredient. Just as sugar has many aliases, so does MSG. Some of its other names are hydrolyzed vegetable protein, autolyzed vegetable protein, textured vegetable protein, hydrolyzed yeast extract, autolyzed yeast extract, plant protein extract (which sounds very innocent), sodium caseinate, calcium caseinate, yeast extract, textured whey protein, and textured soy protein.

LEAD BY EXAMPLE

If you’re giving your kids apples and explaining how good they are for their health, yet they see you eating a Snickers bar as a snack, it’s never going to work. Feeding the entire family healthy meals and snacks is part of being a good parent. Never use the “D word” (diet) in front of children. Strict diets look like punishment to a child. Eating healthy foods should be a way of life. Two good tips: lead by example and eat everything in moderation.

WHAT ARE YOUR KIDS DRINKING?

You know that plants need water to grow—so do your children. Teach them to love water at a very young age and educate them about sugary sodas, iced teas and sports drinks. Let them know that one 20 oz. bottle of Coca-Cola, contains 65 grams of sugar. The American Heart Association suggests that a person consume no more than 24 grams of sugar in a day! Sugar in soda has been known to dissolve tooth enamel and even worse, cause heart disease. Some juices contain a lot of sugar as well. Always read labels and remember, you can’t go wrong with a glass of water. Don’t just live, live healthy!

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

NATALIE SENIOR GREENBERG

IF YOU LOVE FASHION, THERE ARE TWO MUSEUM SHOWS THAT ARE ‘MUST SEES’ IN NEW YORK CITY RIGHT NOW. THE METROPOLITAN MUSEUM OF ART’S COSTUME INSTITUTE IS CURRENTLY SHOWING, IN AMERICA: A LEXICON OF FASHION AND THE BROOKLYN MUSEUM IS CURRENTLY SHOWING CHRISTIAN DIOR: DESIGNER OF DREAMS.

The shows differ in that the Metropolitan Museum show includes many diverse American fashion designers, and the Brooklyn Museum show focuses on just one French designer, Christian Dior.

In America: A Lexicon of Fashion at the Met is inspired by a “patchwork quilt.” An 1856 quilt from the Met’s own American Wing collection is shown at the entrance of the show and serves as a metaphor for the US and its varied cultural identities. The displays of the fashion mannequins, (each seems to be floating in its own cubicle), are geometrically stacked and lined up just like the geometry of a quilt. And just like the patterns of a quilt, which relate to each other either in color or motif, the fashions are displayed with relationships to one another.

Dozens of fashions from the 1940s to the present are arranged into twelve sections based on the emotional qualities of: nostalgia, belonging, delight, joy, wonder, affinity, confidence, strength, desire, assurance, comfort, and consciousness. The fashions include not only well-known designers, but also new, emerging and diverse designers, showing that American fashion is always moving, changing and growing. It’s fun to walk through the collection and see the beautiful fashions from the past and the new fashions by young, up and coming designers. The fashions are well organized and displayed in an easy to approach manner.

In America: A Lexicon of Fashion will run though September 2022, but a new addition to the show: In America: An Anthology of Fashion will open on May 7, 2022.

Christian Dior: Designer of Dreams arrived at the Brooklyn Museum after being shown first in Paris in 2017. It is a very large, glamorous and theatrical show highlighting eight decades of designs by Christian Dior. Fans of Dior will appreciate the details in the exhibition and if you are not familiar with the brand, you will get a wonderful history lesson in fashion.

The extensive exhibition, which features several silhouettes on display for the first time, walks the viewer through Christian Dior’s relationship with New York. It takes you on his journey from his atelier in Paris to the United States. Throughout the exhibition, guests get lost in the wonderful world of Christian Dior through never-before-seen haute couture creations, designs from the House’s successive Artistic Directors like Yves Saint Laurent, John Galliano, Raf Simmons, and more, and finally, a collection of dresses that have been worn by celebrities from Princess Diana and Grace Kelly to Penelope Cruz and Nicole Kidman.

The entire exhibit is visually stunning, taking you through garden inspired displays to heavenly, cloud-like presentations. This show is not to be missed!

Christian Dior: Designer of Dreams will be on display until February 20, 2022. Both the Met and Brooklyn Museum shows require advanced timed ticketing.

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

A 1,500 SQUARE FOOT THERAPY CENTER

NOVEMBER 8TH MARKED A TRULY MONUMENTAL MOMENT AT THE CENTER: THE UNVEILING OF OUR NEW JEWISH COMMUNAL FUND SENSORY GYM. THIS EXTRAORDINARY FACILITY COULD NOT HAVE HAPPENED WITHOUT THE GUIDANCE OF THE UJA, WHO SECURED A GRANT FROM THE JCF’S ENDOWMENT, THE JCF SPECIAL GIFTS FUND.

The JCF enabled us to build an extravagant state-of-the-art 1,500 square foot therapy center, equipped with therapy swings, rock-climbing walls, monkey bars, therapy balls, and other sensory equipment. At the Center, we know that sensory gyms are vital in supporting fine motor skills, body awareness, increased social skills, enhanced independence, and so much more. It is a wonderful contribution that so many children in our community will enjoy and benefit from. The sensory gym has already become the talk of the town, and as word continues to spread, we can only imagine the impact this gym will have on our community.

The night of the event was filled with words of excitement from members of the JCF, including their CEO Sue Dickman and UJA’s Executive Vice President Mark Medin. The Center’s very own occupational therapist Evelyn Salama, as well as parent and longtime friend Susan Srour, spoke words of wisdom about how important the new gym is.

We want to thank everybody involved in this noteworthy project, and we invite the community to come to the Center and see our new addition.

AT THE SEPHARDIC COMMUNITY CENTER

SARAH CHREM, LMSW

THE CENTER OPENED ITS DOORS ON NOVEMBER 15TH, WELCOMING THE COMMUNITY TO CENTERED ON HEALTH. THE EVENT, WHICH HAD SOMETHING FOR EVERYONE, BROUGHT PEOPLE TOGETHER TO LEARN, RECONNECT, AND ENJOY THE DAY. CENTERED ON HEALTH BOASTED A ROBUST PROGRAM, ENCOMPASSING A DIVERSE ARRAY OF HEALTH-RELATED PRESENTATIONS.

Our health starts at conception. Genetic screening before marrying and having children is the first responsible decision we can make as parents. Dr. Ditchek of JPatible came in to help us understand more about recessive genes and the importance of genetic testing. As parents, we strive to keep our children safe and healthy. Along that theme, we had an RN at the event who gave presentations on what to do if your child is choking.

Parenting our children is our most important job. Parenting takes planning, education, and strategy. Being proactive parents will allow us to find positive ways to discipline our children, as well as tune in to their needs and advocate for them when they have challenges to meet. We also had a parenting expert, along with an occupational therapist, speech and language pathologist, and physical therapist. All of our therapists spoke to parents of young children about how they can grow as parents by recognizing, understanding, and meeting their children’s needs.

Presentations on both our mental and physical health were given at the event too. We live such full, fast paced lives and give so much of ourselves to our loved ones. We need to learn how to slow down and take care of ourselves as well. Having a life coach come in to discuss how to control the “rush” in our day was eye opening for many. Self care was also addressed by an auriculotherapist, who explained acupressure on the ear and the host of difficulties it can address and alleviate. Since we are always on the move, we don’t always pay attention to our physical well being. Learning about how lower back and knee pain are oftentimes caused by those areas compensating for other areas helped attendees realize that they need to address the less obvious areas in their bodies in regards to exercise and treatment.

As we move from stage to stage throughout life, our health needs shift as well. Everyone was excited to learn about how nutrition and metabolism affect health at different ages and stages of life. As we get older, we want to make sure we are staying strong, that’s why it is so valuable to learn about women’s bone health. We learned about what we can do to build and maintain bone mass, as well as things we can avoid that contribute to poor bone health. Finally, we learned about our mind and memory. Concerns surrounding memory need to be addressed from a wider angle because memory challenges can be a symptom of other medical issues. The full picture will point patients to the best course of treatment. We learned when we should be concerned and address potential issues with a medical provider.

Throughout the day, there were health screenings for participants to utilize. In some cases, screenings can save lives. Preventive medicine can help us understand what our medical needs are. Incorporating screenings into our Centered on Health event was a priority. We were able to include mammogram screenings (with the help of Morris I Franco Cancer Center) as well as hearing screenings (with Audiologist Dr. Jennifer Srour).

Then we moved on to discussing healthy food. Food is often at the center of our homes and families, but we need to be responsible about what we choose to eat. The varied cooking demonstrations approached cooking from different angles. Our cooking demos covered topics that included the medical components of the food we eat, different ways of incorporating new foods into our cooking, how to use what’s in our pantry and fridge for a balanced meal, how to make a smoothie that will help our bodies re-energize after exercising, how to eat well without depriving ourselves, and how to create a healthier version of Shabbat and holiday meals. The variety of subjects, along with the aromas traveling from the stage to the audience, kept everyone interested and hungry.

While the main goal of Centered on Health was to empower people with important information and health related knowledge, unifying the community stands at “the center” of what we wanted to achieve. The whole is greater than the sum of its parts. Every employee of the Center, as well as every presenter and organization involved, was responsible for the success of our event. We are proud to have collaborated with and owe a debt of gratitude to The Morris I Franco Cancer Center and Medstar, PROPEL Network, The Alzheimer’s Foundation of America, Dr. Stuart Ditchek, Dr. Ezra Dori, Dr. Jennifer Srour, Ray Sofer, Evelyn Salama, Laura Kurtz, Renee Zarif, Heather Deutsch, Nazira Chabbott, Sandy Zohni, Stefanie Zakay, Jacklyn Lahav, Frances Palacci, Judith Betesh, Sarah Hanan, Nina Dahan, Mozelle Goldstein, Roz Ben David, and Allison Esses.

Sarah Chrem, LMSW, is a special events coordinator at the Center.

THE SBH LORRAINE AND LOUIS A”H SHAMIE SENIOR DIVISION WAS HONORED AND HUMBLED TO LAUNCH CONNECT, DAILY PROGRAMMING FOR THE SENIORS OF OUR COMMUNITY. ON DECEMBER 15 SBH WELCOMED OVER 100 SENIORS TO THEIR BROOKLYN HEADQUARTERS WHERE THEY OFFICIALLY LAUNCHED THE LONG-AWAITED PROGRAM TO SUPPORT THE PILLARS OF OUR COMMUNITY.

The day began with a delicious hot catered lunch and continued with speeches of welcome and gratitude by staff and volunteers. Entertainment by Steven Chera followed, and a special project involving all of our incredible seniors. Mona Saad was invited to design a mosaic with our seniors that will one day hang in the new senior recreational space in the future SBH building. Everyone loved creating the mosaic.

The day was an emotional and exciting look at what lies ahead for the future of the Senior Division as a hub for senior services in our community. SBH looks forward to daily programming for seniors every Monday to Thursday. From Arabic music to classic film screenings, there will be something for everyone!

HANUKKAH IS A JOYOUS HOLIDAY FOR JEWS AROUND THE WORLD. THIS PAST HANUKKAH, NEW YORK’S HONORABLE JUDGE BRUCE BALTER AND RABBI DR. ELIE ABADIE CELEBRATED IN SPECIAL WAYS. JUDGE BALTER WAS INVITED BY THE PORT AUTHORITY POLICE SHROMIN SOCIETY TO LIGHT THE MENORAH AT WORLD TRADE CENTER GROUND ZERO. “IT WAS MY GREAT HONOR TO ONCE AGAIN HAVE THE ZECHUT TO LIGHT THE MENORAH AT GROUND ZERO. IT WAS SUCH A HUMBLING EXPERIENCE TO REPRESENT AM YISRAEL,” SAID JUDGE BALTER.

A little over a year ago, Rabbi Dr. Abadie left our community to serve as the Senior Rabbi of the Jewish Council of the Emirates, in Dubai. We checked in with him to find out how he spent the holiday. He said, “Hanukkah in the UAE was eight days of miracles. The Jewish community celebrated each night in a different place with pride of being Jewish and living in the UAE.” Here’s a look at Judge Balter’s and Rabbi Abadie’s celebrations as well as celebrations around the world.

HANUKKAH BINGO NIGHT AT DSN IS ONE OF THE MOST HIGHLY ACCLAIMED YEARLY EVENTS IN THE JERSEY COMMUNITY. BOTH CHILDREN AND ADULTS LOOK FORWARD TO THIS NIGHT FILLED WITH DELICIOUS FOOD AND EXHILARATING FAMILY FUN.

On Monday, November 29th, DSN welcomed 600 community members into its building for a Hanukkah celebration. As guests entered, they heard lively Hanukkah songs and marveled at a huge balloon arch displayed at the entrance.

After taking pictures under the balloon arch, everyone made their way to the dinner buffet stations. Nicole’s Kitchen provided the full dinner and dessert. As usual, it was delicious!

DSN member and mother Lillian Manopla stated, “My family looks forward to the DSN Hanukkah party every year. The food was so appetizing, plus the entertainment was wonderful. We are so lucky to have DSN to host this special night!”

Upon entering the gymnasium, guests were asked to guess the number of dreidels packed into a large jar. The person who guessed closest to the correct number of dreidels would receive an Amazon gift card. The winner was young Samuel Sasson! Guests also enjoyed taking pictures in the special photo booth that was set up with Hanukkah-themed props.

This special night personifies community building at its finest, bringing everyone together in a positive way. As everyone settled into their seats, Rabbi Joseph Dana started off the night with a Dvar Torah, speaking to the crowd about the meaning of the Hanukkah holiday. Then, Jack Savdie, a 7th grade Hillel Yeshiva student, recited the blessings on the menorah and lit the candles, followed by the crowd singing Ma’Ozur together. It was beautiful!

Finally, the time came for Bingo! DSN’s Executive Director Sammy Sitt resumed his treasured position as Master of Ceremonies. Several bingo iterations were played such as getting a straight line, an X and the fan-favorite “stand up, sit down.” Sammy doesn’t just call a game of Bingo. He is able to get the crowd screaming in elation as he calls each number. The entire DSN gymnasium roared with excitement, laughter and heart-pounding, energy.

Alison Maymie, a DSN mother, said, “It is simply an amazing night. It is done professionally with the stage, big screen, great prizes and fantastic food! That’s why there is always a huge turnout!”

Frieda Shammah, DSN’s Youth Director, stated, “It is so nice to see our hard work pay off when the kids are thrilled and the parents are smiling. Hanukkah Bingo night is my favorite night of the year. The kids go nuts at the chance to win amazing prizes, including an Xbox, a Nintendo Switch, smart watches, Kindles, Barbie toys, American Girl dolls, wireless headphones, iHomes and scooters to satisfy all age groups. What’s not to love?”

Mother Jacqueline Musry was delighted. “My kids would not leave until the last number of the night was called. It was the best night!” There is a high intensity that remains until the last prize is won. It is an accumulation of happiness, hopefulness, excitement, and fun, all of which make DSN the pillar of the Jersey Shore community.

Sammy Sitt put the night into perspective. “On Hanukkah, we are reminded how the Greeks wanted to tear down the religious and social fabric of the Jewish community. DSN is modern day proof of the Maccabean victory as we unite in our beautiful Community Center with the menorah front and center. Bringing the community together for fun and entertainment is in the DNA of DSN, especially with all the new families who have joined the community. We must provide an opportunity for everyone to meet each other and feel at home. We have the best community in the world, and they deserve the best!”

RABBI EZRA MAX

DO YOU KNOW WHAT YOU WANT? IT’S ESSENTIAL TO KNOW WHAT YOU WANT BECAUSE EVERYTHING YOU HAVE BEGAN WITH AN IDEA. IF YOU DON’T KNOW, THEN YOU ALREADY HAVE WHAT YOU’VE GOT AND DON’T EXPECT MORE.

The start of a new secular year is the perfect time to envision, set goals, plan, and begin to manifest what you want. Are you ready? Let’s dive in. The best way to get what you want is to identify it and stay focused on getting it. Simple? Yes, but not always easy. This is where having a goal helps.

STEP 1: EMBRACE GRATITUDE TO FIND CLARITY
Begin by giving yourself a little time and space. Open up a notebook, and list the things you’re grateful for. Think of someone you appreciate and write a thank you note. Reflect on something that went well that you accomplished that you’re proud of. Celebrate the idea that you’re alive and that you’re healthy, and that you have a roof over your head. Enjoy that you can see, feel and hear—that you exist in this world. Revel in all of your relationships, mundane to extraordinary. Acknowledge yourself and acknowledge others, including G-d, for all the good you have in life. Infuse your heart with all of this gratitude and speak out loud, “thank you.”

STEP 2: SET YOUR SMARTER GOALS
My clients do a goal setting exercise at least once a year. Some do it quarterly. Using this process, a client generated almost 30% more profit over the following year. Another client, working in real estate, went from being frustrated, unfocused and getting nowhere to doing four deals in less than three months.

Here is the process we walked through. First, review your desired outcomes that were discovered in Step 1. Now, let’s craft them into SMARTER goals.

SMARTER stands for:
S: Specific
M: Measurable
A: Achievable
R: Realistic
T: Time Specific
E: Exciting
R: Reward

Success Tips
Visible: Print your goals out in color and place them somewhere you will see them often. Then, look at your goals every single day.

Artifact: Choose a physical item as your artifact, to represent your goals. Keep it with you and carry it daily to remind you of your goals and why you want to achieve them.

Prayer: Pray for success. Making a genuine request for success from the Almighty will generate results. Prayer always positively influences my goals. So, let’s pray.

STEP 3: REQUEST ACCOUNTABILITY
Prepare a plan of action towards your goals. Establish an accountability partner to support you in maintaining your commitments. This can be a friend or a coach. Find a great coach who will not only help you figure out your goals but will hold you accountable and support you in achieving them. Most importantly, take daily action towards achieving what you want.

Goal Hack
Contract with yourself. Write your name, followed by “I will be celebrating the achievement of — on — date.” Sign it. Bonus if you share a copy of this contract with your coach or accountability partner.

Double Bonus
The gift of your presence is the greatest present. A SMARTER way to get what you want, be it time or money, is to contribute—in celebration of your SMARTER year!

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.

SACRIFICING ALL FOR THOSE HE LOVED

MICHAEL AINI

ABRAHAM WAS TOLD BY HASHEM TO SACRIFICE ISAAC HIS ONLY SON. THE FIRST JEW WAS ABOUT TO SACRIFICE THE ONLY SECOND JEW IN EXISTENCE. THIS SCRIPTURE IS SO IMPORTANT BECAUSE IT DEFINES WHAT IT IS TO BE A JEW, A GREAT FATHER AND TO LEAVE BEHIND A TRUE LEGACY. SACRIFICE, HONESTY, HONOR, HUMILITY, LOYALTY, DEVOTION, COURAGE, COMMITMENT AND CHARITY ARE ALL QUALITIES MY FATHER HAD BUT THE GLUE WHICH BOUND THEM TOGETHER WAS SACRIFICE, AS EVIDENT IN HIS STORY AND IN HIS FAMILY.

They say we are the chosen ones, and I believe that to be true, because we are chosen to sacrifice our today for a better tomorrow. It takes seeds of sacrifice that we have to plant with blood, sweat and tears in our present time, so our children and children’s children can reap and sow the rewards that we will never see—that is exactly what my father did. Chaoul Aini was born on March 15, 1933, the eldest son of Jacob and Victoria Aini. Being the eldest of his siblings (Laura, Joe, Sellie, Nina and Albert) he knew what sacrifice meant at an early age.

Victoria, their mother, died at an early age leaving the children to grow up quickly and to help one another get by. My Grandmother Rachel Abed (from my mother’s side who had 10 children of her own to raise) helped them by cooking, cleaning and doing other chores. She shared her knowledge and motherly advice with all the young children.

My father literally married “the girl next door,” my Mom, Samira. Then there was the expulsion of Jews from Lebanon during 1967, he and my mother then sacrificed everything they had in Lebanon, as did all my aunts and uncles (Ainis and Abeds), as well as all the other Jewish families living there to leave for a better tomorrow for all their children.

When he arrived in NYC, he was a stranger in a strange land, doing menial work and hard labor to get by. He toiled the land in blood, sweat and tears, planting seeds, though he would never reap the rewards. He and Mother worked hard to give us a Jewish education so we could become the people we are today.

My father worked long hours and shunned the spotlight in all its forms, he was humble, honest and never spoke ill of anyone. He was a gentleman’s gentlemen in every sense of the word.

My brother Harry spoke about his integrity and how he returned a bag full of money that he found to the bank in the early 70s, at our fathers funeral.

In my brother Jacob’s eulogy he spoke about my father’s honesty and his motto “A good name is worth more than money in the bank.”

Both of my brothers share those qualities, among a multitude of others too numerous to mention, yet the glue which bound all of those qualities together was sacrifice, which my brothers continue to do in their lives.

As I was sitting shiva, I noticed that the entire family stopped whatever schedule they had and took time to pay their respects and share their warmth—our children, aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces, nephews, friends, acquaintances all helped ease the process of sitting shiva.

Laurie, my brother Harry’s wife, opened her home twice (once for my Mom’s shiva), made the shiva easier for us to bear, due to all her beautiful qualities, kindness, thoughtfulness, humility and empathy.

Rachel, my brother Jacob’s wife, was like a daughter to both my parents, and a sister to us. She was there when my mother or father needed anything—no matter the circumstance, or the task—she always went above and beyond, in this world and even in the next, by making sure to keep them together in their grave site.

The legacy that my father leaves behind is in us—all of us—everyone he helped and those he met along his journey. His memory and legacy shall always be alive in his brothers, in his sisters, in his children, in his grandchildren and in his great grandchildren.

Michael Aini is a community member.

THERE IS NOTHING MORE IMPORTANT THAN A JEWISH EDUCATION

SARINA ROFFÉ

“WITHOUT CHILDREN LEARNING TORAH THERE WILL BE FEWER JEWS IN AMERICA IN 20 YEARS. WE HAVE TO PROVIDE THEM WITH A TORAH EDUCATION,” SAID SAM DOMB, HOTELIER, VOLUNTEER AND PHILANTHROPIST. “INTERMARRIAGE INCREASES EACH YEAR, SO I DO WHAT I CAN TO HELP SCHOOLS AND YESHIVAHS SO CHILDREN CAN LEARN TORAH. MANY PARENTS CANNOT AFFORD TO PAY $20-30,000 FOR THEIR CHILD’S JEWISH EDUCATION.”

A Holocaust survivor, Sam narrowly escaped death at the hands of the Nazis during World War II. He spent his formative years wandering through the forests of Eastern Europe to Russia, lived in Siberia and other places until the end of the war. His story is one no child should have to endure.

On September 26, 1939, the family was awoken in the early morning hours, had to leave everything behind and were forced to begin marching with the rest of the community, many still in their night clothing. Sam’s mother was holding him in her arms when she tripped and fell and was subsequently shot by the Nazis as Sam and the rest of the family watched.

They continued to march and during a break, Sam’s father tried to hide the five-year-old with a Polish friend, as they were leaving Poland. But the friend turned Sam and other hiding children over to the Germans. Sam, who was courageous even at age five, saw the Germans begin killing the others in groups of 10. He ran deep into the forest with another boy only a few years older than he, whom he called “my angel.” Sam and his friend wandered through the forests until they passed into Russian territory. They walked along arduous paths, starving and thirsty, they hid in basements and crevices, in forests, beneath bridges and between corn stalks, utterly destitute and sometimes freezing.

The author of He Hath No Let Me Die! From Ashes To Life, Sam did not have the luxury of a formal education. As a child, he saw evil and destruction in its most ugly form and survived against all odds. After the war, he was 11 when he first attended a school and received some Jewish education. Later he moved to Israel where he lived on a kibbutz and served in the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF). In Israel he married his wife Sara, a Yemenite Jew, and the granddaughter of the Chief Rabbi of Yemen, and they moved to New York.

Sam’s story is one of rags to riches. He washed dishes, operated an elevator and did many menial jobs before a few breaks helped him enter the hotel industry. Through hard work and dedication, Sam was able to develop his business and help the Jewish community in many ways. And it is that generosity, that commitment to helping others for the future of Klal Israel, that makes him the focus of this month’s profile.

“We were born Jewish, we have to continue and remain strong and powerful,” said Sam. “In the Diaspora, it is easy to intermarry. If we send children to learn Torah, if a father says kiddush on Friday night, then his son will say it, and the tradition continues.”

While many Holocaust survivors began to question G-d’s role after the war, Sam said, “an inner voice instructed me not to abandon the faith of our forefathers.” Over the years, Sam’s devotion to Jewish causes grew, as did his observance. Among them the National Jewish Outreach Program, which sponsors programs like Shabbat Across America and heritage projects, as well as Hebrew instruction.

Indeed, Sam is the angel for many schools and synagogues. Manhattan Day School, Ramaz, Ohel Moshe and Ahi Ezer Yeshiva are just a few of the schools that he generously supports.

“He lives his life to put children in yeshivahs. He supports many yeshivahs in a very big way every year. He makes sure children get educated,” said Bunny Escava, the president of Ahi Ezer.

“I personally view Jewish education as a key factor in our nation’s struggle for survival. I have established a one-man enterprise in which I invest all my energies in supporting educational institutions and Jewish schools,” said Sam. “Jewish education is the best guarantee of Jewish survival, and it is that which will protect us from assimilation.”

He has also rescued several synagogues from disrepair, including the Carlebach Shul, Ramath Orah, West Side Institutional Synagogue, and Congregation Ohev Sholom in Manhattan, as well as synagogues in Israel.

“I just felt obligated in my heart because of the darkness of my past. I had to do something to light the future. It’s a great spiritual feeling sitting in a synagogue that has been restored. That is when I feel G-d smiles at me.”

Sam is the founder of Young Israel of Jamaica Estates and Tifereth Israel, a Yemenite Synagogue in Manhattan that his children Ronnie, Jay and Michele attend. After his wife Sara died in 1992, Sam established the Sara Domb Youth Center in Queens to offer educational activities for Jewish youth and the Sara Domb Scholarship Fund for Jewish studies.

Today, Sam is a business mogul, supporting the State of Israel and is a passionate advocate for Jewish issues around the world. He remained involved with Israeli politics most of his life and developed friendships with the Chief Rabbis

“Sam took me to see President Clinton in 1992, just the two of us,” said Bunny Escava. “We stood in line and when it was our turn, he spoke to President Clinton for 10 minutes about what he wanted him to do for Israel and he kept the whole line waiting.”

Sam has spoken at many events and has been outspoken about the importance of Israel and Jewish education to the continuity of the Jewish people. Bunny noted that on Friday nights in Florida, Sam and his life partner, Orly Gal, who has become an important part of his family life and his philanthropic endeavors, make a lavish dinner and always invite people for Shabbat to his apartment. It’s really special.

“Always generous and welcoming, Sam and Orly are the perfect hosts, plus Orly is a wonderful cook, which makes for the most memorable and delicious Shabbat dinners. You never know who you’ll meet at their dinners, because their guests are the most interesting and diverse people from around the world. The dinner conversations are always riveting and often reveal Sam’s insight on a variety of subjects. I feel blessed to count Sam and Orly as my friends and to be included in their spectacular Shabbat dinners,” said Rachelle Matsas.

One of the greatest joys of Sam’s life was the recent birth of his great-granddaughter Stella Sara Mazal, daughter of Adam and Anna.

Sam wrote “For me, the Land of Israel and Jerusalem comprise one complete unit. This unity can never be surrendered because Israel and Jerusalem are bound together. Forever.”

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

SEPHARDIC COMMUNITY CYCLISTS RAISE MONEY FOR ISRAELI AMPUTEES

Aura Lagnado

It’s been a while now, but somewhere in my cycling journey I grew a soft spot in my heart for amputees. Maybe it was the fact that I met a few amputee cyclists riding strong and inspiring me to go further, push stronger, ride faster, and give it my all.

At first they were just like all the other cyclists, enjoying life while riding around in circles in Prospect Park, but as cycling became a bigger part of my life, and I was spending more and more time on my bike in the park, I got to know a few of these amputee cyclists. I began to ride with them and open up conversations with them. I got close enough to a few of them to feel comfortable asking about the stories behind their missing limbs. A strong connection formed for me. I started reading up about amputations and the life, struggles, and phantom pain with which they suffer.

I am not exactly sure how and when I heard about The Next Ride (TNR). But when I did I had this strong desire, want, and need to be part of it.

The Next Ride is a subdivision of an Israeli non-profit organization called The Next Step. The Next Step is more than just any non-profit, it is community, it is family, it is the force that gives strength to amputees. It gives them the strength to stand tall, stand straight, and stand with pride. It gives them the strength to take their Next Step—to move forward and journey through life with a smile on their faces knowing they can do anything they ever dreamt of.

November 2020, due to covid and the changes that came with it, I was not going into work as often as I would normally, and so when someone posted on a WhatsApp group chat that there were six openings for TNR, I saw it as my chance—one that may not come again if I didn’t jump on it. So, needless to say, I signed up. It was just two and a half weeks before the ride through the Dubai deserts with a dozen or more amputees.

During the short time I spent with the TNR family, I got to know a number of the amputees that benefit from The Next Step. On bus rides, we discussed their challenges of adapting to a new life, the stories behind their amputations, the downs, the ups, and how grateful they are for the Next Step, and their American family, who are there to help them through it all.

To me, this trip was very much about the amputees. I tried to spend as much time as possible with them, with their doctor, and with their families, getting to know as much as I could about them. It is amazing to see how happy they are on a daily basis—how they see the good in everything around them. But then when they speak of their stories, the sadness, the hard times, the feelings of depression that they fight off, it’s all so real, it’s a harsh reminder of why we do this, of why we ride, of why The Next Ride came about.

As one young woman told the story of her depression, of her three attempts at suicide, her doctor sat quietly listening to her speak, tearing up while reliving it all with her. I tried to be strong, holding the tears at bay, but hearing her speak her story, seeing her doctor start crying, and understanding the difficulties these amazing people overcome, it was too emotional to hold back my tears.

One amputee said it took him three years to find himself and come out of his depressed state. For him, it was sports, cycling, adventures and thrills which reminded him of the life he loved and can still live.

On the outside we see these amputees smiling, we see them running, jumping, cycling and living a life just like any other, but like everything, there is a story, a journey, and a community of great people to help each and every one of them get to that place of happiness and pride, the place we see them in today.

When I signed up in 2020, I thought it would be a one time shot for me. I would do my part, contribute, raise money for a cause I hold dear, ride, and check it off my bucket list. However, the strong connections that were formed over the week had me coming back for more. As tough as it was for me to raise the funds, missing every fundraising deadline, I refused to back-down and quit, I had to go back, I had to see these special souls, and so, I joined 30+ Syrian Sephardic community members and took a flight out to Morocco to do it all again this year! To ride with the TNR family and strengthen the bonds created! Whenever there is a genuine need for help you will find the Syrian Sephardic community taking part.

This year, right before Shabbat, TNR heard of a special case that was considered hopeless. After many calls and research, they found a glimpse of hope. A glimpse of hope that came with enormous costs. At our Shabbat lunch in Morocco, it was the Sephardic community that jumped into action and started collecting money for this case, collecting money as they would do for an aliya in shul. I cannot say how much was collected, but it was heart warming to see the goodness of our community in action, at a spontaneous moment.

A month ago, I would have said TNR 2021 is my final year, but once again, after spending the week with this special community and family that has been formed, I find myself thinking of ways to go back, ways to help these individuals, ways to bring their dreams to life! TNR 2022—let’s do this—bigger and better! All the money we raise is going to a great cause!

Aura Lagnado earned a Master of Science in Oriental Medicine, specializing in acupuncture and herbs. She achieved the Valedictorian Award in 2018 when she graduated Pacific College while also working full-time. Aura flew to Taiwan to learn and intern under the doctors in the China Medical University of Taichung, right after graduating with her Master’s degree. Upon returning to the States she took no time before starting her Doctorate program at Pacific College of Oriental Medicine. She is currently a Doctor of Oriental Medicine and a NYS licensed acupuncturist.

AN ICON OF RABBINIC LEADERSHIP

GAIL PELTZER

IF ONE WERE TO THINK OF A STERLING EXAMPLE OF A RABBI, ROSH YESHIVA, MENTOR, SPIRITUAL GUIDE, ORATOR AND TEACHER, ONE INDIVIDUAL COMES TO MIND—RABBI DR. ZVULUN LIEBERMAN ZT’L. NINE YEARS AGO, WE BADE FAREWELL TO OUR BELOVED RABBI. THE LOSS OF THIS TZADIK AND TALMID HAKHAM RESURFACES WITH GREATER INTENSITY EACH YEAR. IT TRANSCENDS THE PASSAGE OF TIME.

As we commemorate his ninth yahrzeit, we remember the depth of his outreach, wisdom and sensitivity toward his fellow Jew, and the profundity of Torah substance, and luminosity which he embodied and radiated both in Eretz Yisrael and in the diaspora.

It is most fitting that I convey my heartfelt gratitude to Hashem for having allowed me to immerse myself in his teachings. I was a beneficiary of his support and guidance. The Rabbi established a strong foundation in Torah learning. He stressed the efficacy of tefilah, hesed, and love for Eretz Yisrael and Am Yisrael. His inextricable bond with his family, students, congregants, and colleagues have remained deeply embedded and will never be severed.

Let us begin with the Rabbi’s childhood in the Bronx. His first language was Yiddish. His mother Yehudith and father Hillel natured and nurtured him in a monetarily strapped environment. The paucity of material resources was overshadowed by unconditional parental love, derech HaTorah and the necessity to uphold the tradition of our rich Jewish heritage. The primacy of receiving and internalizing Hashem’s directives remained with him from childhood through adulthood.

Rabbi Lieberman formed an idyllic partnership with his brother Paul Lieberman, who eventually became a judge. The Rabbi always strove to give honor to his parents. He was an exemplary student who excelled scholastically in a myriad of disciplines, leading to his candidacy and acceptance into the Semicha program at Yeshiva University. He was admired and highly respected by his professors, including Rabbi Dr. Joseph Ber Soloveitchik zt’l, Rabbi Shatzkes zt’l, Rabbi Dr. Belkin, zt’l, Rabbi Dovid Lifschitz, zt’l and HaRav Ovadia Yosef, Rishon Lezion zt’l and Ha Rav Mordechai Elyahu, Rishon Lezion, zt’l, all of whom signed his Semicha.

When the Rabbi was seventeen years of age, a tidal wave came crashing down on his family. He suddenly came face-to-face with a harsh reality which he had never before encountered. His father was suddenly taken from his midst leaving the family in dire circumstances. With the inner fortitude to persevere, he obtained part time employment. His G-d given inner voice opened up a new vista of understanding. He brought healing and great consolation to his mother and brother. He proved himself beyond the shadow of a doubt more than capable of providing assistance, lending a strong hand and taking upon himself the mantle of leadership. The Rabbi never recoiled in despair but conditioned himself to confront and overcome seemingly insurmountable challenges.

In 1955, Rabbi Lieberman married Rebbetzin Bracha, a very special woman. He mentioned to his colleague Rabbi Meir Goldwicht, she is not only a good wife she is a great team partner. The zechut he had to marry Rebbetzin Bracha carried over into their offspring Tehila, Elyorah Chaya and Hillel Elyahu, grandchildren and great grandchildren.

The Rabbi’s fervor for spiritual growth and Talmudic studies was manifest in the lofty heights he reached. We marvel at the plethora of his achievements. He ultimately reached the pinnacle of success, Yoreh Yoreh Yadin Yadin, Rosh Yeshiva of Sephardic Studies at Reits, Av Beth Din of Syrian Beth Din, Dayan, Principal of Yeshivah of Flatbush, Ramaz upper school, Maybaum Chair Professor of Sephardic Studies Talmud and Halacha at YU Azrielli Graduate School and Professor of Education at the Teachers Institute for Women.

In October 2000, a second tidal wave gripped the Lieberman family, the brutal murder of Hillel Elyahu. Years earlier he met his future wife Yael in Israel. Their trajectory took them to Elon Moreh in the Shomron. As strong advocates and residents of Elon Moreh, they had established a loving family and a non-negotiable foothold in Eretz Yisrael, ensuring that the legacy of our Avot and Emahot would not pass into oblivion. They reinforce the unshakable connection of our homeland to its people. The apocalyptic act of evil committed by the Arabs turned their world upside down. Un etre vous manque et tout est depeuple. (Sometimes, only one person is missing, and the whole world seems depopulated.)

The Rabbi had been leading the Yom Kippur service when he received this news. Solitary in his lamentation he nevertheless kept his emotions in check. The news did not derail him from his Rabbinic responsibility, a true testimony to the grandeur and humility of an exemplary Rabbinic leader. Today the courage and strength of his character is manifest in his two grandsons, Moshe Yair who is currently serving in the Paratroopers and Yosef Yisrael who is serving in the Golani Brigade division of the Israel Defense Forces.

I wish to express my gratitude to the following interviewees who have willingly shared their personal connection to Rabbi Dr. Zvulun Lieberman zt’l, Rabbi Meir Goldwicht shlita. In Mesechta Avot it is written, “One who is rich is satisfied with his lot.” Rabbi Dr. Lieberman gave an alternate explication and expounded on this. “One is also happy when he sees the success of others.”

MEMORIES OF RABBI LIEBERMAN Z’TL

I met Rabbi Lieberman zt’l at Yeshiva University. He encouraged his students to check and investigate what was happening in Eretz Yisrael. “We need to feel that the diaspora is temporary, and understand that the real life is in Eretz Yisrael. If people internalize this message, they will develop the power and motivation to go to Israel in the future.”

Rabbi Dr. Lieberman made each of his students feel unique. They gleaned so much from his lectures. I admired his patience in listening to individuals. When the opportunity availed itself, I sought sagacious advice from my beloved colleague. He integrated the parashat into everyday mundane situations. We all miss him. His passing is a tremendous loss.”

Rabbi Ezra and Schifra Hanon remember, ”Ours was the first wedding in Congregation Beth Torah. The Rabbi was the Misadar Kedushin on Sept. 12, 1971. Our children prayed in Congregation Beth Torah. It received many awards for architectural beauty.”

Rabbi Ezra continued, “Rabbi Dr. Lieberman zt’l taught me how to endear children. His son Hillel Eliyahu came to Bet Knesset. I can recall Hillel at age 5 or 6 frolicking. He sat on the Rabbi’s lap for 15 minutes. This was his favorite introspection spot. Hillel was quite active.

We were guests at the Rabbi’s home several times. He taught my children at the Azrelli graduate school. He was truly a master teacher. He also cemented the relationship between my wife Schifra and me. Schifra was firmly planted in Ashkenazi traditions and mine are Syrian. Rabbi Dr. Lieberman fused the two families and societies. He emphasized the love of Jew for Jew.”

“The Rabbi was a Renaissance man, powerfully erudite in many fields. He integrated Sephardic traditions into Congregation Beth Torah and the committee abided by his decisions.”

“The Rabbi was a Renaissance man, powerfully erudite in many fields. He integrated Sephardic traditions into Congregation Beth Torah and the committee abided by his decisions.”

“Following the six-day war in 1967, he asked the following question. What do you think a normal warring victorious nation does after defeating its enemy? Israel sent milk into the Old City, Yehudah and Shomron for Arab babies. This shows the heightened moral conscience and integrity of the Israelis.”

“My siblings were so inspired by Rabbi Dr. Lieberman. My sister boarded the Zion ship departing from the US, destination Tel Aviv. She credits Rabbi Lieberman for giving her inspiration and love of Eretz Yisrael.”

Rabbi Ezra Hanon is the Health Care chaplain at NYU Coney Island Hospital. Schifra Hanon is Director of Pathfinders at the Yeshivah of Flatbush.

”Everyone was enamored by the Rabbi’s countenance. He ingratiated himself and inspired people—5 through 95 years old. He engaged the students and every morning he would get on the PA system. May his memory be a blessing.”

Mr. David Dweck, one of the founders of Congregation Beth Torah said, “I moved in 1968 to the Avenue J area. We were praying in the basement of Club 100 with a small minyan. From its inception, Rabbi Dr. Lieberman was the Rabbi of Congregation Beth Torah. Abie Tawil was getting bar mitzvahed. I marvel at the fact that the Rabbi, Ashkenazi from birth, had to think outside of the box. He adjusted so masterfully to the Sephardic customs and rituals. People sought his counsel. On holiday evenings he invited people from the block to an intimate reception for a Sefer Torah reading after synagogue services. I purchased permanent seats for my family. The congregation grew by leaps and bounds under his leadership. The aura of ongoing Torah classes and minyanim created such a spirit of congeniality, thanks to the Rabbi’s initiative and toil.”

David continued, “He was such a template. Whenever I asked a question, I received an answer on the spot. The congregation honored him. They always gave him the respect he deserved. They escorted him up to the podium. The Rabbi was so lovable. His passing has left an inexplicable void within us.”

“Beloved Rabbi Dr. Zvulun Lieberman zt’l, it has been nine years since your passing. You transformed the month of Tevet into tovot. You gave us the courage to access the sparks of G-dliness within us. You celebrated our successes and your humility generated such charisma. I can recall when I visited you at NYU Hospital, the Haitian nurse remarked “I want to adopt the Rabbi as my father. He is the best patient ever.”

“When I gaze at your portrait in Congregation Beth Torah I am reminded of your inimitable smile, heartfelt compassion and Torah words of Emet. You shepherded your family, congregants and students for over six decades. You fled from honor, never seeking the limelight, no special privileges. You were the candle that ignited thousands of neshamot. You saw the intrinsic beauty in every Jew. In the zechut of your self-sacrifice may we be zocheh to witness the ultimate geula and once again be in your presence.”

Rabbi Dr. Zvulun Lieberman is survived by his wife Rebbetzin Bracha, his brother Judge Paul, Esq., his daughters Tehila and Elyorah, his daughter in-law Yael, grandchildren and great grandchildren both in Eretz Yisrael and in the diaspora. Yehi Zichro Baruch.

I wish to thank Rabbi Azancot for preserving the legacy of Rabbi Dr. Zvulun Lieberman zt’l. May the Rabbi be blessed.

Gail Peltzer is a community member.

ARI BAUM, CFP®

HAVE YOU EVER LOOKED AT YOUR FINANCIAL PORTFOLIO AND, TO YOUR DISMAY, DISCOVERED THAT YOU’RE INVESTING IN A COMPANY WHOSE PRACTICES MAKE YOU CRINGE? DO YOU HAVE STRONG BELIEFS ABOUT HOW THE WORLD COULD BE BETTER?

Maybe you support the work of some nonprofit organizations, or you’re involved in taking direct action to make the planet a better place to live. Wouldn’t it be great if you could align the way you manage your wealth with the values that you hold closest to your heart?

Believe it or not, it is possible to make money and still manage it in a way that supports your purpose. In fact, in certain circumstances, ethical investments may potentially outperform their peers.

With so many options now available, strategies that align with your personal values and beliefs can satisfy investing with integrity while still maintaining a diversified portfolio.

However, sometimes it can be difficult to find the right investments. Investment companies may take very different approaches to what might seem like the same value system.

When you want to make sure that your money only supports organizations that you approve of, it’s critical that you know what your purpose is. Do you want to specifically invest only in something that you believe in, or do you want to screen out the ideas that don’t serve your beliefs? Or both?

If you dread finding out that something you disapprove of is in your investment portfolio, you’ve come to the right place. This step-by-step guide is specifically designed for ethical people with strongly held beliefs just like you who are searching for a way to manage their money without losing integrity. While you want to invest with purpose, you also need to make sure that your portfolio can help you reach your financial goals.

As a values-driven investor, you may be asking yourself questions like these:

• Does my current portfolio align with my beliefs, and if not, how can I change it?
• Where can I find investments that get me to my goals, but that I can also feel good about?
• Is there anything I’ve overlooked in my search for ethical finances?
• How can I make sense of all the choices available to me?
If any of these questions had an impact on you, keep reading.

STEP 1: ALIGN YOUR BELIEFS AND VALUE SYSTEM WITH YOUR FINANCIAL GOALS

In your eyes, what constitutes a company with ethics and integrity? Think of a couple of businesses that you would be happy to invest in. Are there certain industries you want to avoid because the entire field is harmful to the world in some way? What are their characteristics?

Connect with what’s deeply important to you. What are you on this planet to do—what is your purpose? What matters most about the impact you want to have on the world? Identify your priorities so you can determine more easily what you want to include and what you prefer to exclude.

Once you’ve harnessed the power of your own purpose, consider your financial goals, too. One of them is likely building a nest egg for retirement, but you may have others as well. You want your investments to do well (in terms of performance) and to do good (in terms of ethics). But don’t worry, those two categories are not always mutually exclusive!

STEP 2: TRANSFORM YOUR CURRENT PLAN INTO A PURPOSE-DRIVEN SRATEGY

It’s pretty common for people to save for retirement without really having a concrete plan for their nest egg. Often, they decide to save “as much as they can.” Many times they invest in securities that people they know have recommended. Saving and investing in something is better than nothing, but this isn’t a plan that’s likely to get you to where you need to go.

Think of a couple of businesses that you would be happy to invest in.

On the other hand, you might have someone who’s knowledgeable about money helping you with a financial strategy. But while they understand the stock market, they don’t understand your value system. Or they may not understand how to invest specifically in alignment with your beliefs.

You might have a strategy, but your heart isn’t in it.

Either way, you don’t have an approach that unites your values with your financial goals. Aligning your beliefs and your investments requires some forethought on your part. It’s critical to develop a framework with the timelines for your goals as well as the plan to get you to those goals and ensure that all the tools you’re using line up with your values.

That way you can reimagine your plan to account for both financial and non-financial desires, without giving up either. You’ll need to understand what’s currently in your portfolio, and what might need to change so that you can finally feel good about your investments.

STEP 3: MAKE AN IMPACT WHILE BUILDING YOUR WEALTH

You can help build a better world for your family and your community, and also pursue your financial goals.

Many folks are content to invest without considering their values and simply donate to the charities of their choice. But by investing in ways that you can ethically support; you’re living your values every day.

STEP 4: VET YOUR INVESTMENTS

Many companies include purpose and values in their mission statements and many of them don’t live up to their own hype. But how can you tell which is which?

Investing with integrity means results matter. It’s not just about claiming that the company is doing good in the world, it’s about the company actually making a meaningful impact. As a result, examining these companies is key for ethical investors.

STEP 5: FIND ALIGNED INVESTMENTS

You might be wondering where all these wonderful opportunities are hiding. Maybe you’re already aware that there are certain mutual fund families and ETFs whose values are like yours. But you want to make sure you’re not missing out on anything.

You may not want to spend time wading through the thicket of opportunities to find the ones that are just right for you and your family. Even if you’d like to, you may simply not have the availability. You want to spot these investments quickly, ensure that they’re up to your standards, and start investing in them as soon as you can.

Who wants to waste any more time supporting companies you really don’t care for, when you could have an entire portfolio that’s aligned with your ethics? Screening for industries, companies, and investment managers that share your values will help you bring your portfolio into alignment.

TRANSFORM YOUR PLAN TO A HEART-DRIVEN STRATEGY

Imagine knowing that every day that you’re not trading performance for integrity and you’re only supporting companies who align with your ethics. You’re actively making the world a better place with your money.

Because you have a strategy that combines your ethics, your beliefs, and your heart with your financial goals.

The purpose-driven investment world is wide, which means that you have plenty of opportunity to ensure your investment options align with your values.

You’ve already made a wise decision to read through this step-by-step guide. Your next smart move is to schedule a Heart-Driven Planning Session with a financial professional so you can get started with ethical investing.

This material is for informational purposes only. It has been compiled from data considered to be reliable, but we do not make any guarantees regarding accuracy, adequacy, or completeness. 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 your financial professional before making any investment decision.

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

Brokerage and Advisory accounts carried by Wells Fargo Clearing Services, LLC. Securities and Advisory services offered through Prospera Financial Services Inc. Member FINRA/SIPC.