Shavuot is a time of gifts. Along with the Torah, the greatest gift Gd gave us at Mount Sinai, He also gave us many other gifts. Every year Shavuot comes and these gifts are poured into us again for 24 hours.
These 24 hours are imbued with great and lofty ideas! – the mighty event of receiving the Torah at Mount Sinai, Megillat Ruth, which ends with the lineage of King David (who was born and died on Shavuot), and our marriage contract with Gd (there are various symbolic marriage contracts with Gd in Jewish literature for the holiday of Shavuot, which are full of love and deep meaning).
I would like to talk about “Stopping.” Shavuot is called “Atzeret,” which means to stop. Every holiday brings with it many things to do before and during the holiday. Passover requires massive preparations, purchasing matzot, wine, and all the holiday foods, and then there is seder night. Sukkot finds us building and decorating the sukkah and then picking out the lulav and etrog. Hanukah includes the candle lighting and the special doughnuts. Purim features the megillah and the other mitzvot of the day. Shavuot requires no special preparations (excluding the cheesecake that is really optional). You do not need any special preparation for Shavuot!
You do not need to go to the synagogue to hear the Ten Commandments nor do you need to bake cheesecakes even if all your friends do. Shavuot is all about “stopping”!
Imagine a young couple that runs around taking care of the house and the children, buys what they need, and then they look at each other and say: we need a time out to recharge, to give each other strength (this is a good thing to do, by the way, that really helps). The Netivot Shalom explains: In this same manner, exactly, Gd says: “Do not prepare anything special. Let us take a break and recharge. I will understand you and you will understand me. I will strengthen and heal you and will bring you gifts from heaven.” Shavuot is a time of quiet. At the giving of the Torah not one bird tweeted (nor did our cell phones or Twitter)!
This stopping actually takes place twice a year. One time is on the eighth day of Atzeret, after seven days of Sukkot and all the high holidays. This eighth day is a call to stop and take stock of all the gifts of all the previous days. The other time is, as we said, Shavuot, which is meant to take stock of the gifts of Passover and the counting up to receiving the Torah.
The Noam Elimelech says that a Torah scroll has holy letters written in it. But the parchment itself is considered even holier, as it encompasses the holiness of all the letters written on it. The same is the case with Shavuot. It is like the parchment that encompasses the holiness of all the other holidays preceding it. Passover preparations, checking for chametz, burning the chametz, seder night, the intermediate Passover days, counting the Omer, Lag B’Omer, the light of the counting and of Rabbi Shimon; all of this is packed into Shavuot. Since this is the case, you do not prepare anything. Just stop and take it all in! Let Gd help you absorb the treasures He is giving you.
Your only preparation is to fashion yourself into a receptacle for all of Gd’s gifts. You may ask: but how do I do this? How do I fashion myself into a receptacle for blessing? How do I receive the Torah? You accept by accepting. You can become a receptacle of Gd’s blessings by accepting upon yourself even a small resolution.
Before the receiving of the Torah there was thunder and lightning. Afterwards there were voices and torches. Lightning lights up the sky for a flash, a torch lights it up for a long time, so long as there is fuel. Before we received the Torah there were flashes of light, but after we accepted the Torah with the words, “We will do and we will listen” that light became a sustained light, like a burning torch. In this same manner, our accepting of even the smallest resolution will bring us a sustained light of blessing that will remain with us.
COVID-19 vaccines are readily available now and all New Yorkers age 16 and over are eligible to receive them. The vaccines offer the best protection against serious and life-threatening illness caused by contracting the virus. Join the millions of New Yorkers who have already been vaccinated and take advantage of this opportunity to stay safe and healthy.
Assemblyman Simcha Eichenstein delivered the following message to all community members:
“Chevra Hatzalah is taking the initiative to raise awareness in the community about the importance of vaccinating against COVID-19 and I join them in this most vital effort. Members of Hatzalah have been heroically fighting at the frontlines of the pandemic for over a year now. All along, we trusted them and followed their advice, along with the guidance of the medical community. Now that the vaccine is available, let us all continue to heed their call.
“The Covid vaccines have been proven to be remarkably effective in reducing the chances of catching the virus. They have been successfully administered in over 160 countries on hundreds of millions of people worldwide with excellent results.”
“Let us all take the logical next step in defeating this terrible pandemic by getting vaccinated. We owe it to ourselves, to our families, and to our communities. Vaccine appointments are currently readily available. I encourage all of my constituents to get vaccinated as soon as possible.”
Preserving Our History
Last month, Magen David Yeshiva HS alumnus Eddie Ashkenazi, Class ‘08 brought a 100-year-old sefer Torah (most likely from Halab) to Magen David High School for restoration. There was a rip in the stitching that binds the pages of the Torah. Rabbi Nathan Zaboulani’s class learned how to sew the parchment back together according to halacha. Mr. Ashkenazi taught them about the unique origins of the old, but well-maintained sefer Torah.
This sefer Torah dates to approximately 5679 (1918) and was found in Magen David of 67th
street. It was commissioned by Mr. & Mrs. Nissim Dayan in memory of their daughter Mazal. The Dayan’s were originally from Aleppo but lived in New York City and would pray in Sha’are Sedek of the Lower East Side.
Daf HaYomi B’Halacha Marches Toward World Siyum on Second Machzor
The Daf HaYomi B’Halacha program, Dirshu’s daily Mishnah Berurah learning program, is already well into Chelek Vav, the last chelek of the Mishnah Berurah. That means that the siyum on the second machzor of Daf HaYomi B’Halacha is getting closer.
As in all Dirshu major siyumim, the siyum upon completion of the seven-year program to learn the entire Mishnah Berurah promises to be a special event. It is sure to be replete with chizuk haTorah and the divrei Elokim chaim delivered by the gedolei hador!
The Divine Smile
Sometimes one feels that Hashem, as it were, is showing us somewhat of a Divine Smile. This year’s Daf HaYomi B’Halacha schedule is one of those times.
As is well known to Daf HaYomi B’Halacha learners, the Mishnah Berurah schedule goes in order of the Mishnah Berurah. Beginning with the first siman in Chelek Aleph, a new daf is learned every day until more than seven years later when the last siman in Chelek Vav is learned and the entire Mishnah Berurah is completed.
Sometimes, this schedule lends itself to learning hilchot Pesach around Rosh Hashanah, which may seem a bit awkward. This year, however, as Daf HaYomi B’Halacha marches toward the massive siyumim that will be held in major Jewish centers around the world, learners will have the opportunity to learn the important halachot of Rosh Hashanah, Yom Kippur, and Sukkot within months and days of those yomim tovim.
“If there was ever a time to join the Daf HaYomi B’Halacha program, now is the time,” said Dirshu hanhalla member, Rabbi Avigdor Bernstein.
To join, please contact Dirshu at 1-888-5Dirshu or email info@kolleldirshu.org.
Robert successfully accumulated 420,000 miles on his credit card and sold the miles to Simon for $5,000. Simon, a mileage broker, then sold the miles to Lewis, a well-known travel agent. Lewis issued a ticket to his customer using the miles, but he thereafter cancelled the order since he accidentally misspelled the customer’s name. The airline first deducted the 420,000 miles when Lewis issued the ticket, only to thereafter credit the account upon the ticket’s cancellation. When Lewis reissued the ticket with the proper spelling, he again used the miles available in the account for the purchase. His customer successfully traveled using the ticket he purchased from Lewis. Much to everyone’s surprise, the airline did not deduct the points from the account after Lewis reissued the ticket. The three contacted our Bet Din each claiming ownership of the 420,000 miles still in the account. Robert suggested that as the account holder he is clearly the owner of the miles. After all, he performed his end of the deal by giving access to his account to purchase a ticket with his miles. He claimed that since the process does not include the transfer of the miles to a different account, the balance in his account is his property. Simon and Lewis argued that since they paid for the miles in advance, they were the owners of the miles, even though they were in Robert’s account. The parties expressed that returning the miles to the airline was not an option, as those miles can only be deducted by issuing another ticket.
Which of the three is entitled to the miles? How should the Bet Din rule and why?
Torah Law
According to the ruling of the Shulhan Aruch, an employee is entitled to his wages as stipulated by his employer. At times, an employee is hired at an inflated rate in order to compensate the employee for a loss he agreed to sustain in order to be available for his employer. By law, an employer is required to pay the stipulated inflated rate even if the employee did not subsequently sustain the expected loss.
In a classic ruling, an employee was awarded inflated wages to abandon his less valuable donkey at the riverbanks, in order to save his employer’s far more valuable animal from drowning. The ruling entitled the employee to collect his inflated wages to offset the expected loss of his donkey even though his donkey miraculously did not drown. Since the employee performed his duty and saved the employer’s more valuable animal, he is entitled to the stipulated wages.
The fact that the employee did not sustain the loss of his donkey is irrelevant, and the animal’s return is viewed as the employee’s good fortune. The employer has no ownership rights to the saved less valuable donkey, even though he paid the employee’s inflated wages to offset that donkey’s expected loss.
The above ruling is applicable to a wide range of cases. The general rule applied is that once an employee or contactor performs a service, an employer is required make full payment as stipulated. The employee is entitled to his inflated wages as well to that which the wages were set to compensate for. The good fortune of the saved animal from expected loss belongs to the employee, the animal’s rightful owner.
In a buy-sell agreement, when a product sold is spared, it belongs to the buyer who is the rightful owner. Although the product sold is still in the possession of the seller, the seller may not claim ownership, even if he already provided access to the buyer to earn a profit. In short, the buyer is entitled to all profits generated from the product even though it is still in the seller’s possession. When miles are sold, it is the buyer’s good fortune if the miles are not deducted from the seller’s account. He is the rightful owners of the miles.
By rule of the Shulhan Aruch, a sale is considered incomplete unless the product is shipped or transferred to the buyer’s possession. Nevertheless, when a buyer and seller agree to finalize a sale upon payment, leading halachic authorities render the sale as final when funds are transferred.
Furthermore, if by industry standards a purchase is viewed as final with the transfer of funds, halachically, the sale is viewed as final upon payment. When an agent purchases mileage from a seller, the miles typically stay in the seller’s account until a ticket is issued.
VEREDICT: Going the Extra Mile
Our Bet Din awarded Lewis, the buyer, with all of the 420,000 miles in the account. Although the miles were in Robert’s account, nevertheless they were sold for cash to Lewis. As mentioned in Torah law, when agreed upon, a sale is considered final with the transfer of funds, even before the shipping of the product. Furthermore, by industry standards the sale was final when Lewis paid for the miles. When an agent like Lewis purchases miles they typically stay in the seller’s account until Lewis issues a ticket to a passenger.
Robert’s claim that he is entitled to repossess the miles since he already enabled Lewis to profit on them after issuing a ticket, is a claim that is irrelevant. As owner of the mileage, Lewis is entitled to all proceeds available of his purchase. Robert’s claim that he already performed and provided access to his account is rejected as well, since it is his responsibility to provide such access until the count is depleted of all the purchased miles. The good fortune of the miles not being deducted is to the credit of Lewis, the rightful owner of the miles.
YOU BE THE JUDGE
Two’s Company?
Jennifer parked her car in the private two car driveway of her home. She had parked her car in a casual manner, leaving little room in her driveway for another car to park. Mike needed to deliver and assemble a large package to Jennifer’s next-door neighbor and was circling the block for fifteen minutes in search of a parking spot. Frustrated, Mike decided to squeeze his car into Jennifer’s two car driveway alongside Jennifer’s car. Shortly thereafter, Jennifer (who was not an experienced driver) pulled out of her driveway denting Mike’s car. Jennifer’s car was also damaged by the accident. Mike made a timely arrival to the scene of the accident and took multiple pictures of the two cars. Mike presented the pictures to our Bet Din and claimed that if Jennifer had been more careful the accident could have been avoided. He claimed that with just enough room between the cars for Jennifer to pull out, she is responsible for the damage inflicted to his car. Jennifer countered that Mike was illegally parked in her driveway, and as a result not only is she not responsible for the dent in his car, but she is also suing him for the damage to her car.
Is Jennifer responsible for her actions?
Is Mike liable for parking illegally? How should the Bet Din rule and why?
What occurs once in January and again in February, but doesn’t occur again until the summer months of June, July, and August?
Last Month’s Riddle: Time Puzzle
What time is it when it is halfway through the second half of the day? Assume that a day starts and ends at midnight.
Solution: It is 6pm.
Solved by: Sara Smouha, ZR Setton, Abraham Cohen, The Zamis, H. Soleimani, Carol Levy, The Blum Family, and The Shmulster.
Junior Riddle: Shorthand
Submitted by Rena D.
What word becomes shorter when you add two letters to it?
Last Month’s Junior Riddle: Word Riddle
Which word in this sentence is misspelled?
Solution: The word “misspelled,” answering the literal question as to which of the words is the word “misspelled” – the word itself is spelled correctly.
Solved by: Rafi Shabtai, Ronnie Betesh, Michael Levy, Frieda Betesh, Haim S., Carol Levy, Big Mike, and The Blum Family.
Did you know that about one half of American adults suffer from a chronic illness associated with poor nutrition and a lack of physical activity? That translates into about 117 million American adults whose chronic disease could be positively altered by adhering to a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, together with an active lifestyle.
Americans’ S.A.D. dietary choices contribute to cardiovascular diseases, such as heart attacks, high blood pressure, strokes, type 2 diabetes, some cancers, as well as some neurological conditions such as dementia, Alzheimer’s disease, and depression. This is not to be taken lightly. We are talking about life-altering diseases that can be curbed, pushed off, or even completely prevented if we make healthy diet and lifestyle choices.
Some Sad Statistics
Let us honestly consider these statistics: which American can say he is unaffected by this astounding reality? How many spouses, children, siblings, colleagues, or students are one degree away from a relative or peer with a preventable chronic illness? How many people are suffering daily due to poor nutrition and lifestyle choices? How much money is spent on medications and attempted cures, and how much productivity is lost?
Nearly two-thirds of all adults and one-third of children fall into the overweight or obese categories. Hundreds of thousands of youths struggle with weight issues. What will become of a generation that battles rampant health issues from a young age?
Numerous components of this eating pattern contribute to the infamous SAD title. Most importantly, there is overconsumption of foods high in calories and low in nutrients, combined with underconsumption of foods containing sufficient nutrients.
More specifically, the American diet usually does not include enough fresh vegetables, fruits, and whole grains, and includes too many foods that are high in calories, saturated fats, refined grains, sugar, and salt. Put simply, most Americans are eating too much junk food and not enough real food.
The Good News and the Bad News
Yet, on a refreshingly positive note, scientific research shows reasonably strong links between nutritious eating patterns and decrease in the risk of the chronic diseases mentioned above. Moreover, making healthy lifestyle choices leads to an immediate increase in our standard of health and in our productivity.
Specific dietary recommendations by the DGAC (Dietary Guidelines Advisory Committee) include eating more fruits and vegetables, whole grains, low-fat dairy, fish, and nuts, combined with eating less red meat, processed foods, sugar, and refined grains.
But it seems the general population has not taken these recommendations to heart, even though people are aware of the real possibility that they could reverse the likelihood of chronic disease by adjusting their diets. Current trends in national eating patterns over the last decade do not show any major shift away from the SAD diet, and toward healthier eating.
If current research strongly suggests that proper nutrition can have a massive impact on the national burden of chronic disease, why are national dietary trends not changing?
Perhaps the general public lacks knowledge about proper nutrition, and/or has limited access to healthy options. But even with knowledge and access, change is still not guaranteed.
As we know, behavioral changes are tough, especially if done on one’s own. In fact, the DGAC emphasizes the need for a revolution in national health consciousness to permeate every aspect
of society. They call on partnerships between parents, families, schools, food retail, health care institutions, and health providers, in order to create a revolution that will be self-sustaining.
Sounds great.
A Solution: Achdut
Yet, there is still one critical component of this ideal plan that is missing, and that is national unity. Success on a national level is possible only if each member of society feels a sense of responsibility for the well-being of every individual within his shared social strata.
The Jewish people are one nation, and we are unified by our unique essence. The lofty national goals set by the DGAC are actually quite reasonable and attainable for the Jewish community. We are small, organized, creative, and motivated. Furthermore, we have an inherent sense of responsibility for each other. If the DGAC believes in the American public, then all the more so, we can surely believe in our own abilities to create this positive change, thereby adhering to the Torah’s principle of “v’nishmartem me’od l’nafshoteichem” – “And you shall very carefully guard your lives” (Devarim 4,15).
Mordechai Katz has a master’s degree in Human Nutrition and Functional Medicine and is the founder of The Jerusalem Center for Functional Medicine. You can find him at: functionalmedicine.co.il & nutrition@functionalmedicine.co.il.
Career coaches discuss a long list of attributes to strive for when advising clients. Talent is something that can always be developed. Integrity, discipline, and resilience are not discussed often enough, but they are qualities that can certainly impact a person’s trajectory towards a successful career. Clients and coaches always focus on current skills. One strategic question that directly impacts continued success might be, “What skills can be learned next?”
What actually delivers opportunity?
What puts a person in a place of choice?
What moves you towards better earnings and overall success?
The answer, my friends, is SKILLS.
Just as you have legs that move you to a local destination, and a car moves you on longer distance journeys, skills are the vehicle that moves you onward and upward throughout your career. Just as eating creates energy for your body, and putting gasoline or electricity in your car fuels it so it can go, you must continually acquire skills to keep moving forward professionally. Skills fuel your career.
Soft and Hard Skills
There are both hard and soft skills. Some skills that were once important are no longer useful and new ones are continually emerging and demand acquisition because they have become essential to growth in the workplace.
Soft skills are often overlooked, but they are paramount in getting ahead at work. Being able to recognize and manage your own emotions, and your relationships with others is key. Getting along well with others is not only essential for employees; if you run your own business, having people skills allows you to evoke better results from your employees.
The most basic of these soft skills we have learned naturally as a part of growing up. We learned by communicating face-to-face with parents. Then we learned in the sand box, then in school, and then in the larger world. Today, because so much human interaction is done via technology, and so much focus has been lost to staring at a screen, younger adults do not have the requisite experience with face-to-face communication. They must put effort into honing those “people reading” skills, and many do.
You might not know when opportunity will knock, but you can position yourself to take advantage of an opportunity when it does show up.
Communication Skills
Communication skills both oral and written must be constantly upgraded. You can learn in school or on your own.
Listening skills are barely taught but are so valuable. You would be surprised how much insight one can gain just by observing. Reading well-written books may not only improve your vocabulary but can improve how you phrase a sentence as well.
Effective speaking can bring about better results on interviews and will help in getting the results you are looking for on the job. Toastmasters International is a non-profit devoted to improving speaking skills. They have groups everywhere. Those considering an upgrade in verbal communication might consider looking into Toastmasters. Find a group that fits your style and be prepared to learn and enjoy at the same time.
Anything is possible if you have a growth mindset and can commit to being a life-long learner.
Our brains have a wonderful capacity for passive learning. We can pick up skills painlessly through association. We are affected by our surroundings so we can improve by exposing ourselves to excellent influences. Take advantage.
Technology
One cannot speak about skills without mentioning technology. Do not underestimate the continual unfolding opportunities in technology, and not just in e-commerce. A World Economic Forum report stated that by 2025 time spent on tasks by machines and humans will be equal, but that 97 million jobs will be created globally. To remain relevant in an automated world, employees will need learn the skills needed to suit the new technological landscape.
There are some serious skills-building initiatives in the technology sector being promoted by Microsoft, Amazon, and Google. Some are cost free to participants, but you have to be seriously committed. Others have a modest cost.
Google has partnered with Coursera, the online learning platform, to offer Google Career Certificates through self-paced courses in data analytics, project management, UX Design, and IT Support. The program charges a modest $40.00 per month and is self-paced, so depending on your personal timeline it can be a low-cost skills builder that offers a great return on your investment.
I believe that you must strive to thrive.
Get ready to bloom by adding new fuel to your career journey. Information about these programs mentioned above is easily accessible. Look online, read about these programs, and of course, contact PROPEL for guidance and support.
If you are interested in a career, please reach out to PROPEL and we can help you fulfill your professional goals. Call PROPEL at 646-494-0822 or Email: info@thepropelnetwork.org
Last month’s publication was second to none. Every article – from the opening column to the very last column – was a pleasure to read. The cover story about how the Flatbush Community Fund has been assisting our family, friends, and neighbors was truly inspirational. The article about how the Abraham Accords has boosted the demand for kosher cuisine in UAE was very enlightening. It was interesting to read how Ross and Elli Kiel built their kosher food empire in UAE by offering Kosherati cuisine consisting of kugel and other delicacies. It makes me wonder what kind of twist can they put on mecshe to make it sell within her food company. And of course, I just loved Adina Yaakov’s Southwestern chicken salad recipe. Chicken is always a sure winner in my home. It’s the perfect diet food any way you cut it, slice it, or cook it. It’s delicious with vegetables, in soups, salads, or just plain.
Raquel Boujo
Sefirat Ha’omer FAQ
Last month’s article about the Sefirat Ha’omer (Sefirat Ha’omer FAQ) was extremely informative. I learned some halachot that I was totally unaware of. I would also like to point out that our Sages teach us the destruction of The Second Bet Hamikdash came about through baseless hatred, “sinat chinam.” Rabbi Akiva’s students died of a plague because they didn’t show proper respect for each other. What is needed to bring Mashiach is ahavat Yisrael, loving our fellow Jews, and realizing that all Jews have a neshama, Gdly soul, and we are all connected. Through ahavat chinam (real love for each other), we can hasten the arrival of the Mashiach. Amen!
Morris L.
Ten Lost Tribes
The Mashiah Revealed series is one of my favorite columns in your magazine. Last issue’s subject – “Where are the Ten Lost Tribes?” was simply fascinating. Not sure if you are aware – but there are people all over the world claiming they are descended from the ten lost tribes. They are studying Torah, learning Hebrew, keeping the Holidays, and observing Shabbat. These are people who were not raised as children to follow the Torah, but who have recently felt an overwhelming desire to do so. Some have faced ridicule from their friends and family but they persevere. Never in the history of man has there been a group of people like these who have grasped on to the Torah without affiliation to a synagogue or the guidance of a rabbi, much less even knowing a single person who is Jewish.
Raymond A.
Ahi Ezer Library
Last month in the Community Highlights section there was a brief write-up about the Ahi Ezer English Judaica Library. My family and I would like to publicly thank Ahi Ezer for serving our community so graciously for over the past 28 years.
There are no words to properly express our deep hakorat hatov for their service to the whole community and to each family, especially ours.
B”H, we are blessed with a big family and the library caters to all ages and preferences. Some children like the historical novels, some fiction, and all of them enjoy the comics… (the adults too!).
Each book is bound, and many are laminated and it’s a pleasure handling them. Please note that we come every ten days, as my kids devour the books, and the Ahi Ezer library keeps them entertained in a healthy and kosher way. We realize that the yearly membership surely is just a drop in the bucket, and thus we really appreciate all your effort and devotion to keep the library running smoothly and stocking it with the latest titles.
Mrs. Sari Grazi and Mrs. Nancy are priceless. Their devotion and patience are exemplary.
May Hakodosh Baruch Hu bless you with continued success.
May is National Barbeque Month. Kick-start the season by firing up the grill with these easy pesto salmon kabobs. These flavor-packed, flaky salmon skewers take less than thirty minutes to prepare, and the best part is – you can make them all year round by using your broiler indoors. Great as an appetizer, or double the servings to use as the main dish. Brush some extra pesto on your favorite vegetable like corn on the cob to grill along with the kabobs and serve with fresh pita for a simple dinner idea.
Ingredients:
1 cup basil pesto
2 lbs salmon filet, skinned and cubed
2 red bell peppers
12 pearl or small onions
2 lemons
6 wooden skewers
1. If you’re using wooden or bamboo skewers, soak them in water for 30 minutes before using.
2. Wash and remove seeds from bell peppers. Chop into large squares. Peel onions, leaving them whole.
3. Toss salmon pieces, peppers, and whole onions together with pesto in a large bowl. Leave for 20 minutes or cover and refrigerate for an hour until you are ready to grill.
4. Thread salmon cubes and veggies through prepared skewers.
5. To cook outdoors on grill: Arrange salmon kabobs on a medium-heated grill, cover and cook for 6 to 8 minutes, turning them with tongs half way through.
To cook indoors in the oven: Turn the broiler on high and place the top rack about 5 to 6 inches below the broiler. Arrange the salmon skewers on a baking sheet and broil for about 5 minutes on one side, turn over on the other side and broil for another 5 minutes.
6. Serve immediately with lemon wedges.
Pesto:
3 cups fresh, cleaned basil
½ cup olive oil
5 cloves fresh garlic
1 tbsp salt
¼ cup pine nuts
In the bowl of a food processor or blender, combine all ingredients. Blend to a smooth paste and set aside.
“Every student here knows that she is loved and valued. Our goal is to produce a true Bat Yisrael, and prepare her to fulfill her dreams….” Rabbi Raymond Beyda
“Every child that comes through these doors is valued. They become a part of the Ahi Ezer family.”
The Ahi Ezer Yeshiva is a striking landmark on Ocean Parkway and has been dear to our hearts for over 60 years. Approaching Avenue X on my way to visit, the fresh and modern structure immediately caught my eye. The beautifully renovated façade is only a hint of the major transformations taking place within the school.
The renewed, state-of-the-art facility does not only reflect a physical face-lift: the school has quietly been on a growth trajectory for the last half decade, resulting in what we can only call a new school. A dedicated and innovative administration, a top-notch curriculum, and the updated physical environment of the school all play a part in the transformation of this all-girls elementary school.
The administration and leadership of Ahi Ezer Yeshiva Girls’ School are truly visionary.
Enter Rabbi Raymond Beyda
Just over three years ago, Rabbi Raymond Beyda joined the faculty. As Rosh Yeshiva, he became part of the team guiding the school’s newest spiritual and academic journey. As part of this journey, the best members of the existing faculty were joined by skilled young teachers from the community, among them Ahi Ezer alumni returning to give back to their community.
Rabbi Beyda emphasizes, “Every student here knows that she is loved and valued. Our goal is to produce a true bat Yisrael and to prepare her to fulfill her dreams. For this to happen, the child must feel good about herself, excited about learning, and comfortable in her environment.”
Rabbi Beyda’s mission statement is not merely words: it is a guiding principle that is evident in the school’s atmosphere, from the preschool through eighth grade.
Early Childhood Division
The Early Childhood Department, under the direction of Mrs. Rose Lati, lays the foundation. Mrs. Lati describes the goals of her department: “We focus on middot and developmental growth. Our aim is to raise the expectations for students and staff, focusing on core life skills, professional development, and parent involvement.”
With consistent advancements, including additional classes and programs initiated each year to incorporate the input from our families, our early childhood division has been recognized as a first-rate preschool in the community.
For Ahi Ezer, making the students feel loved from the first moment is a goal on par with the educational experience. Morah Bimi, beloved kindergarten teacher, stresses, “Every child that comes through these doors is valued. They become a part of the Ahi Ezer family.”
As in all divisions, the Preschool Department is imbued with a spirit of growth and innovation. In addition to their regular classes, Ahi Ezer Yeshiva now has a toddler program and a weekly Sunday program for girls. And it does not end there! Mommy and Me classes will be starting this September, b’ezrat Hashem, led by Mimi Mizrahi, for children aged nine months to two years. Other plans for the preschool are in store as well, which reflect the forward-looking attitude that permeates this building.
Elementary Division
The Elementary Division is led by Mrs. Golda Winegarten, the Judaic Studies principal. Under her experienced guidance, the Judaic Studies Department has become a model for other schools. The school is recognized as being at the forefront of nation-wide educational ventures.
The school’s Yediot Klaliot, Halacha, and Parasha programs were developed by Mrs. Nina Hidary, after consulting extensively with the principals of leading high schools. Mrs. Winegarten explains, “We wanted to find out what their expectations are for a successful student.” Incorporating skills and general Judaic Studies knowledge, the cumulative curriculum has succeeded impressively. “This program has been sought after by other elementary schools,” Mrs. Winegarten notes.
Another marker of the school’s achievements is the J-SAT test, a placement test taken by hundreds of students from yeshivot and day schools in the New York area. “A significant majority of our students scored above-average in the J-Sat tests,” Mrs. Winegaten states proudly. As a result, she notes, “We have schools fighting over Ahi Ezer Yeshiva graduates!” Clearly, the school’s strong tradition of dedication to growth has led to impressive results.
Nursery roomKindergarten room
Ivrit Programs
The rest of the curriculum is laudable, as well. Mrs. Paz, an acclaimed community educator, spearheads the school’s Ivrit program. In addition to teaching Ivrit B’Ivrit to all grades, Mrs. Paz has created an Honors class for seventh and eighth graders, using a high school curriculum.
Building on their success with the Yediot program, Ahi Ezer is continuing to integrate Lashon HaTorah and Dikduk skills on the demanding level of the COJDS curriculum. They are ahead of the curve, and it is clear that this is just the beginning.
Secular Studies
Mrs. Aliza Beyda is the principal of the Secular Studies Department. She works together with curriculum advisor Mrs. Matalon. Their goal is to prepare students for higher education in every possible way. Here, too, the mantra is to expand in new directions of growth. This includes implementing new courses and teaching methods and staying on the lookout for future additions to the curriculum.
Advanced students in the fifth through eighth grades take part in honors classes for Math and Language Arts. Mrs. Beyda noted, “Astoundingly, this year’s fifth grade honors have touched upon eighth grade-level statistics, while the eighth graders are preparing to ace the ninth grade Regents Exam.” Preparing students to be competitive in today’s world means including advanced computer skills. Beginning in fifth grade, students learn the basics of using a computer, typing skills, and essential programs like Microsoft Word, Excel, and Outlook.
Another program that is critical to helping students achieve future success is the STEM program, which integrates science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. Through this stimulating curriculum, students develop scientific literacy and critical thinking skills. Ahi Ezer is preparing the next generation of innovators.
Supplemental courses include Sephardic History, which provides students with an understanding of their rich heritage and instills pride in their community, tracing 3,000 years of the Sephardic heritage through photos and artifacts. In another popular course, a teen-mentor visits the seventh and eighth grades to present classes in self-confidence, social skills, emuna, and Hashkafa/Torah outlook. These invaluable weekly lessons provide the almost-graduates with the self-esteem and skills vital to handling life’s challenges, readying them for their future roles as wives, mothers, and pillars of our community. New this year is a class called the Eternal City, during which eighth graders brush up on their skills by researching the history and archaeology of Jerusalem!
Lined up for Fall 2021 is a multi-faceted healthy living program, including nutrition education and physical education. To spice things up, each month the school will invite well-known Syrian chefs into their new state-of-the-art kitchen. These guests will demonstrate techniques for preparing healthy meals and desserts.
Ahi Ezer Weathers COVID
In March of 2020 Ahi Ezer’s combination of love and professionalism stood them in good stead when NYC shut down. The previous month, with COVID still distant on the horizon, the Ahi Ezer principals foresaw the possibility of a lockdown. They started preparing for remote schooling – just in case. As a result, the school was able to spring into action as soon as the pandemic struck. Distance learning began almost immediately, and teachers helped students fill the long hours after Zoom School with weekly art classes, voluntary Parasha and Tehillim time, and a nightly teacher-hosted program nicknamed “Ahi Ezer Live!”
There was more: drive-through events, packages full of toys and games, the annual bat mitzvah presentation, and a surprise graduation trip – think hand-delivered souvenirs. There was a café-style breakfast and barbeque dinner, a virtual DC tour, and a Zoom Escape Room game. Amazingly, even during a pandemic, Ahi Ezer was creating fond memories. By the time in-person learning resumed, it was clear the school had pulled off a virtual miracle.
Making Everyone Feel Comfortable
Sometimes it is the smallest things that make a difference, such as a principal greeting students as they walk into school, or on-site babysitting services for the faculty. This attention to detail is especially visible in every aspect of the building’s renovations.
Student comfort is paramount at Ahi Ezer. The brightly lit, color-coordinated classrooms feature brand-new furniture and colorful, self-healing cork boards. The cubbies and hooks take students’ ease into account, in different sizes and heights according to the needs of their littlest and biggest members. Teacher cabinets neatly line the tops of the cubbies, providing a spacious area for educational resources. The new student restrooms could rival those at a wedding hall. Walls and floors throughout the school provide various types of atmospheres: impressive marble walls and glass portraits of Sephardic rabbis grace the entrance; warm, trendy tones with a pop of color and textured wallpaper are just right for the elementary students; and exciting-colored tiles brighten up the preschool. Teachers and staff are getting used to the reactions: parents will routinely comment that they feel like they have walked into a new school. And they are right!
From the play-yard to doors to windows, the transformed building is beautiful. The visionary new Board of Directors – Mr. Bunny Escava, Mr. Joe Indibo Cohen, Mr. Harry Adjmi, Rabbi Raymond Azrak, Mr. Victor Bibi, Mr. Gabe Khezrie, Mr. Eddie Mizrahi, and Mr. Zuki Jradeh, as well as tireless administrator Rabbi Elly Dayan, take pride in the renovations they helped to facilitate. One board member explained his motivations behind the school’s changes: “When our little girls come into school, they are little princesses, when they graduate, they are queens.”
Board Members Speak Up
Board member Rabbi Raymond Azrak says, “We have tremendous hakarat hatov to Hakadosh Baruchu for the incredible siyata dishmaya, Divine assistance, in the growth of Ahi Ezer in recent years.”
Other board members weigh in on the conversation. “I’ve noticed the teachers and principals are stronger than ever and have more knowledge to make the school great,” says Mr. Bunny Escava, president of the school board for 40 years. “The love they have for the students is beyond belief.”
Mr. Harry Adjmi refers to the school as humble, explaining why the school’s transformation has taken place mostly behind the scenes, out of the limelight. He notes that the administration does not veer from its main focus: “To educate good, respectable girls in our community.”
Mr. Gabe Khezrie comments, “Being a graduate of Ahi Ezer myself, it warms my heart to see the school striving and succeeding in every aspect.” He credits the dedication of Mr. Joe Cohen and the new board members as the driving force behind the tremendous success each and every student is achieving.
“Ahi Ezer Yeshiva has come leaps and bounds in terms of academic excellence, cutting-edge extra-curricular programs, and student enrollment,” says Amy Setton, business office director. “I have seen firsthand the changes made at our school and I am truly proud to be part of the Ahi Ezer family. I call it a hidden gem in an ancient treasure known as Ahi Ezer Yeshiva.”
New Look, Same Values
While the building looks and feels new, Ahi Ezer’s trademark for decades has been its warmth. The school retains its signature family atmosphere, even as the staff and curriculum have grown. The new Ahi Ezer is a synthesis: the commitment to education with love has never wavered, it has just been combined with new creative and effective educational tools.
Rabbi Raymond Beyda reiterates the school’s objective. “We are an institution with a long history of tradition, perfecting the education of our children so that they can fulfill their dreams and become anything that they want to be.”
The Rabbi’s ambition is shared by the entirety of the school’s team, encompassing the Hebrew and English departments, administration, and board. Together, they are making it all happen.
Where is Ahi Ezer heading next? With the forward-thinking perspective that permeates the school nowadays, the sky is the limit.
Modern classrooms
Bright facilities
For inquiries, or to tour the school, please call 718.648.6100. To stay updated you can also follow Ahi Ezer @ahiezerpreschool and @ahiezeryeshiva.
