Blogs | Community Magazine

Strengthening Our Community’s Future in Israel

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May 2025

Strengthening Our Community’s Future in Israel

Victor Cohen

A group of community members gathered for a special dinner hosted by OP Development on March 25th honoring the Mayor of Jerusalem, Mr. Moshe Lion. This intimate evening was designed to strengthen the bonds between our community and Israel, and especiallywith Jerusalem. It was an awe-inspiring night, that included worthy charitable projects in Jerusalem and words of hizukfrom Rabbi Eli Mansour.

For generations, our community has held a deep spiritual and emotional connection to Israel. We direct our prayers to Jerusalem. We visit when we can. We send our children there to learn in yeshiva after graduatinghigh school, allowing them to connect with the Land of Israel in a profound way. Following the events of October 7th, our community stepped up to the plate to support Israel. We joined solidarity missions, prayed for the hostages and for the Israeli soldiers, and supplied significant financial and humanitarian aid. We reconfirmed that our ties to the land and the people of Israel are real and enduring. Our community has become increasingly more connected with the land itself, and many now think of Israel as their second home.

But for many, the dream of having a home in Israel has felt distant. Where would we find the same sense of community like we have in Brooklyn, Deal, Panama, or Mexico? How do we carry our unity, traditions, and values into our second home – and ensure they grow even stronger? In the past, the idea of owning in Israel, despite being appealing, did not seem practical.

Today, through the dedicated efforts of our community to foster deep connections and build strong networks in Israel, that distant dream is becoming a reality. With a growing number of thoughtfully-planned projects designed around our values and lifestyle, home ownership in Israel is no longer just an idea – it’s a tangible, accessible opportunity to extend our community and spirit into a new home.

Dinner with the Mayor of Jerusalem

The dinner with Mayor Moshe Lion, themed “Building Bridges Between Jerusalem and Our Community,” was a celebration of shared values and forward vision. Held at Castell’s, the event was attended by prominent community members committed to deepening our connection with Israel, all of whom had the opportunity to meet the mayor personally.

Before becoming mayor, Moshe Lion played an influential role in major infrastructure and cultural projects across the country. His work in Jerusalem has focused on bridging the city’s diverse communities, boosting economic growth, and advancing large-scale urban renewal initiatives. Known for his pragmatic approach and deep commitment to the city’s unique character, Lion continues to champion projects that aim to make Jerusalem a thriving, inclusive, and globally connected city.

Inspiring speeches were deliveredby Harry Adjmi, Sammy Ayal, Menachem Lubinsky – an esteemed representative from the Har HaZeitim revitalization project, Rabbi Eli Mansour, and Mayor Moshe Lion.

Harry Adjmi spoke about the unwavering support and mutual assistance that define our community, highlighting how we always stand by one another. “This is what we do. This is who we are. We care so much about our community and about each other.”

When Harry spoke, he recognized that many refer to New York as the greatest city in the world. He disagreed, however, believing the world’s greatest city is actually Jerusalem. “The man who leads it,” Harry remarked, referring to Moshe Lion, “will forever be a friend to the Syrian Jewish community.”

Harry closed by referencing the strong connection between our community and Israel. “We are connected through the spirit of life in Israel, something that will continue forever and ever.” Then, he introduced the founder of OP, Sammy Ayal.

Sammy reaffirmed the important goal of the night. “Tonight is all about our community connecting with the Mayor of Jerusalem and connecting the Syrian community – one unlike any other – with Jerusalem – a city unlike any other.”

He demonstrated this by pointing out that Jerusalem is mentioned in Tanach 669 times. It is at the center of our prayers, our hopes, and our dreams as a nation. It is a place that holds, for us as Jews, unmatched historical significance. It also is significant for our future as Jews. Sammy concluded by quoting from Pirke Avot, where Rabbi Shimon answers what is the best trait that a person can acquire – “Haroeh et hanolad” – one who sees what the future holds. “The future is in Jerusalem.”

Menachem Lubinsky, a leader of the Har HaZeitim revitalization project, then shared details of his important work. Har HaZeitim is the final resting place of the Ramban, Menachem Begin, Eliezer ben-Yehuda, and the prophets Haggai, Zechariah, and Malachi, to name a few. Har HaZeitim was significantly damaged during the Jordanian occupation (1948-67). Lubinsky hopes the project will preserve this sacred site for generations to come by building a new visitor’s center.

Rabbi Mansour spoke next and focused on the special status Jerusalem has compared to the rest of the world, even to the rest of Israel. “Rambam writes that there is Jerusalem, and then the rest of Israel. The world began in Jerusalem. Hashem took dirt from the Temple Mount and created Adam.Noah brought his korban in Jerusalem. Abraham was tested with the Akedah in Jerusalem.”

After the destruction of the Beit Hamikdash Israel lost its kedusha, but that is not the case with Jerusalem. “It will be eternal.”

Rabbi Mansour introduced Mayor Lion. Before beginning his speech, the mayor sang in Hebrew. He underscored his appreciation for the Syrian community and how grateful he was to get to know the community better. He reiterated that there is no city like Jerusalem throughout the world. He acknowledged the efforts to restore Har HaZeitim.

It was a beautiful night, and an expression of love for the land of Israel, especially Jerusalem.

Next Year in Jerusalem

“At the end of every seder, year after year, we traditionally say, ‘Next year in Jerusalem.’ It’s a hopeful declaration we make each Passover, envisioning the day we will be in Jerusalem.” By strengthening the ties between our community and the leadership in Jerusalem, as well as by providing a viable pathway to owning in Israel, our community has laid out the roadmap. It is up to us now to take the leap and find ourselves “next year in Jerusalem.”

Once Upon A Thyme – Beef Dumplings with Sesame Garlic Soy Sauce

Community Magazine

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May 2025

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Once Upon A Thyme – Beef Dumplings with Sesame Garlic Soy Sauce

Adina Yaakov
These savory beef dumplings feature a flavorful filling of ground beef, onions, and garlic, all wrapped in delicate wonton wrappers. Steamed to perfection, they’re served with a rich and savory garlic soy sauce, garnished with fresh scallions and sesame seeds. Wontons originated in China and are a beloved dish across many Asian cultures, often enjoyed as appetizers or snacks. These dumplings can alternatively be fried for a crispy, crunchy texture, or dropped raw into a soup as well. Perfect as an appetizer, main dish, or addition to your favorite soup!

Ingredients:

2 tbsp oil
1 onion, diced
1 lb. ground beef
1 tbsp kosher salt
2-3 cloves garlic, minced
Wonton wrappers (about 20-30)
1 tsp sesame seeds (for garnish)
1-2 scallions, chopped (for garnish)

For the Sesame Garlic Soy Sauce:

1/4 cup Soy sauce
1-2 tbsp rice vinegar
1 tsp sesame oil
1 tbsp sesame seeds
1 tsp honey
2 cloves garlic, minced
Chili flakes (optional)

Instructions:
Cook the Beef:
In a large sauté pan, heat 2 tbsp of oil over medium heat.
Add the diced onion and cook for 5-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onions are golden and soft.
Add the ground beef to the pan, season with 1 tbsp kosher salt, and cook until browned. Use a masher tool to break the beef into fine crumbles for a smooth filling.
Add minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Set the beef mixture aside to cool slightly.

Prepare the Wontons:
Place a wonton wrapper in your hand and add about 1 teaspoon of the beef mixture in the center.
Moisten the edges of the wrapper with a little water (using your finger or a brush).
Fold the wrapper in half to form a triangle or “taco” shape, then press the edges to seal tightly. If the edges dry out, add a little more water to ensure a good seal.
Bring the two ends together and pinch them together to form a round dumpling. Repeat with the remaining wrappers and filling.

Steam the Wontons:
Set up your steamer basket or use the steaming attachment on a rice cooker. Bring water to a boil.
Arrange the filled wontons in a single layer in the steamer, ensuring they don’t overlap.
Steam for about 10 minutes, until the wontons are cooked through and the wrappers are tender.

Make the Garlic Soy Sauce:
In a small jar or bowl, combine the soy sauce, honey, sesame oil, sesame seeds, and garlic. Shake or stir well until the sugar dissolves.
If you like a bit of heat, add chili flakes to taste.

Serve:
Garnish the steamed wontons with chopped scallions and sesame seeds for extra flavor and crunch.
Serve with garlic soy sauce for dipping.

Voices of Vision

Community Magazine

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May 2025

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ELLEN GELLER KAMARAS

“The huge shift that I made after ten years in the corporate arena to the yeshiva world was good for my Jewish soul. I feel like this is what Hashem wants me to do.” – Tali Yaakov

Please meet Talia Yaakov, better known as Tali. She simply exudes positive energy and passion.

After a career of ten years as an optician for a global retailer of prescription eyewear, Tali had a “quarter life crisis.” She pivoted and created a new profession for herself as a dance teacher, which also greatly improved her work-life balance.

Tali is not the first family member to appear in this column. Her older sister, Shany Sharabany, a nurse practitioner, was featured during the summer of 2021. She was a front-line hero during the pandemic.

Tali’s sister-in-law, Adina Yaakov, was featured in the February 2024 Woman to Woman column and is a registered dietician nutritionist. Her column in Community, Once Upon a Thyme, is a favorite of many shaatras.

A Little History

Tali was born in Flatbush to Shaul and Stella Dagmy, both Lebanese immigrants. They worked hard to establish themselves in the United States. Tali is the youngest in her family, with three older brothers and her older sister Shany. The siblings are very close.

Tali attended Shulamith Elementary School and Machon Yakov L’Bnos, Manhattan high school for girls, whose principal is Rebbetzin Ruthy Asaf.

She was an outgoing child and she blossomed in social settings, including at school. Tali enjoyed her relationships with her teachers.

“I was always that loud student. In my yearbook, they referenced me as ‘the one who can be found singing and dancing up and down the halls.’ I received the Spirit Award in eighth grade for my influential positive energy. My favorite part of the day was always gym class – I was naturally athletic and loved sports.”

During her grade school and high school years, Tali performed and flourished in her roles in plays, dances, and skits and she attended dance classes with her friends. She started crafting dances as early as fourth grade with her classmates.

Tali continued to use her talents in student government and in helping with the sixth-grade production when she was fourteen.

“My earliest memory of dancing is when, as a little girl, I would hold my father’s hand during Friday night Kiddush and dance while he sang Shalom Aleichem. Dancing is something I must do. The rhythm gets to me.”

Post High School

After high school, Tali studied at Machon Seminary in Boro Park and Shaare Bina, also in Brooklyn. She also enrolled in NYC College of Technology and became a NYS licensed optician and dispensed glasses and contact lenses.

Tali describes herself as energetic, positive, loud, outgoing, focused, and regimented. She likes to have fun, too. She is warm, smart, and is always growing and expanding her toolbox.

Tali met her naseeb, Yoseph Yaakov, who is four years older, through mutual friends. Two friends living in Israel told her about a Sephardic kollel student living in in Brooklyn. It was true hashgacha pratit! A shadchanit arranged for the two to meet. They got along immediately. They both share the ability to relate well and to connect with others. Yoseph is a yeshiva rebbe and a youth rabbi on Shabbat, and is also a social worker. The couple have three children and consider themselves blessed to live in a wonderful community.

The Pivot

Tali was thriving at her job at LensCrafters and even met celebrities when she worked in Soho.

Covid hit and the world shut down in March 2020. Tali was furloughed from her position at LensCrafters. She was itching to do something meaningful during her time off. While her daughter was in day camp, Tali offered to come in once a week and teach dance and sports to the campers. The camp director was immediately impressed by Tali’s energy and camp vibe, and after the first day she invited Tali to return for the rest of the season. Since then, Tali has taught in camp every summer.

“I was that girl at weddings that danced and danced and didn’t stop. Over the years, I would attend people’s parties, mostly bat mitzvahs, and everyone would come over and tell me that I should teach dance. But the timing wasn’t right when I finished seminary.”

In the fall of 2021, Tali returned to LensCrafters. The following summer, she asked for two days a week off to work in camp. At the end of the summer, Tali realized that she didnot want to go back to her optician position in the City.

“Although I liked the corporate world and the professional aspect, I realized I enjoyed the yeshiva world and wanted something more fulfilling. The yeshiva environment was good for my soul.”

Tali Reinvents Herself

Tali turned her passion for dancing, her positive energy, and her ability to inspire others into a new career. Her new profession and livelihood give her the flexibility and work-life balance to be home with her children when they get off the school bus. It helps her to feel fulfilled and gives her life more meaning and a sense of purpose.

“I love bringing happiness and energy and unifying all girls whether they can or cannot dance. I enjoy bringing joy and spreading joy! My husband supports me in all my decisions and is my biggest cheerleader.”

After leaving her optician job, Tali secured a job teaching math to sixth grade yeshiva students. She likes to have fun with her students while maintaining discipline and a healthy social and emotional environment in her classroom. No bullying or shaming is permitted in Mrs. Yaakov’s classes. Students must respect each other as well as the teacher. “I strive to gain my students’ trust and teach the kids good habits for the future.”

Tali’s children love to dance and even her almost two-year-old child is now dancing. “Music is always on in my house.”

Her eleven-year-old daughter pitches in at night with the younger ones when Tali is teaching a class.

A Range of Students

Her fitness and dance students come from word of mouth. Tali teaches Zumba and Pilates two mornings a week and she ensures her students use every muscle in their bodies. She also does girls’ dance parties and senior exercise classes with lots of stretching. Tali started out as an assistant at bat mitzvah dance parties and advanced to running her own.

Recently, Tali started doing exercises with special needs girls once a week at theelementary school division at IVDU School for Special Education. The occupational therapist complimented Tali on how therapeutically beneficial her exercise routines are.

Tali is always expanding her skill set and knowledge base. After giving birth to her third child, she enrolled in a fitness center that offered classes for women and she incorporated what she learned into her own programs and events.

Nachat

At a recent event,one of the girls told Tali that she never gets up to dance. With Tali’s encouragement the girl took the leap to participate, and dance she did! The young girl was so proud of herself. Tali felt so gratified that she was able to help that girl go from a non-participant to an active participant, and to experience the joy of dancing. “I feel like this is what Hashem wants me to do.”

The following story perfectly captures Tali’s passion.

“I was listening to a podcast interview with Benny Friedman, and they asked him how he knew that he was supposed to be a singer. He answered that it’s something he can’t NOT do. That really resonated with me. For me, dancing is a calling, something I can’t NOT do. It’s a part of who I am at my core.”

Connect with Tali at Mrsyaakov@gmail.com with or by text at 917-674-0484.

Ellen Geller Kamaras, CPA/MBA, is an International Coach Federation (ICF) Associate Certified Coach. Her coaching specialties include life, career, and dating coaching. Ellen is active in her community and is currently the Acting President of Congregation Bnai Avraham in Brooklyn Heights. She can be contacted at ellen@lifecoachellen.com (www.lifecoachellen.com).

Confetti Pretzels

Community Magazine

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May 2025

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A Crunchy Favorite

Pretzels are a favorite snack for millions of people across the country. Americans spend about $1.5 billion on pretzels every year!

Chef Shiri Says…

Its creamy texture and pale color make white chocolate a popular choice for drizzling, molding, and creating decorative designs on desserts.

The Jewish World of Wonders presents…

Creative Cooking with

Chef Shiri

Kids – See if you have what it takes to become a Junior Chef!

Utensils Needed:

Baking tray
Wax paper
Microwave-safe glass bowl
Spoon
Plate
Oven mitts

Ingredients:

12-ounce bag of parve white chocolate chips
20 Pretzel rods
3 Tablespoons of rainbow sprinkles

Let’s Get Started!

Adult assistance required!

DIRECTIONS:

Line the baking tray with wax paper and set aside.
Pour the white chocolate chips into a microwave-safe glass bowl and melt in the microwave on medium setting for 30 seconds at a time, stirring after each 30-second interval, until completely melted (about 2 minutes).
Dip the pretzel rods into the melted white chocolate and spoon additional white chocolate over the rods until about three-quarters of the pretzel is covered.
Hold the dipped pretzel rod over the plate and shake or spoon rainbow sprinkles onto the pretzel, turning the rod to cover all sides.
Place dipped and decorated pretzel rods on the prepared baking tray and allow coating to set for about 15 minutes before eating.

Makes 20 CONFETTI Pretzels!

Fast Food Fact

White chocolate isn’t technically chocolate because it doesn’t have cocoa solids. It’s made from cocoa butter and has a sweet, creamy flavor, making it great for baking and holiday treats.

Community Highlights – Assemblyman Simcha Eichenstein Introduces Legislation to Halt Sanitation Ticket Barrage During Shabbat

Community Magazine

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May 2025

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Community Highlights – Assemblyman Simcha Eichenstein Introduces Legislation to Halt Sanitation Ticket Barrage During Shabbat

New York State Assemblyman Simcha Eichenstein introduced legislation at the State Legislature that would amend a discriminatory NYC Department of Sanitation regulation that unfairly penalizes New York City’s Jewish community.

Last year, the NYC Department of Sanitation enacted a rule requiring residents to place their trash on the curb after 8pm in an effort to combat the city’s rat problem. However, this rigid policy ignores the needs of religious New Yorkers who are prohibited from handling trash on Shabbos. As a result, many residents have been subjected to steep fines of $50-$300 simply for observing their faith.

“This policy is unacceptable and must come to end,” declared Assemblyman Simcha Eichenstein. “New Yorkers should not have to choose between their religious beliefs and avoiding a ticket.”

Assemblyman Eichenstein’s proposed legislation would prohibit Sanitation Department enforcement agents from ticketing New York City residents from 3pm on Friday through 6pm on Saturdays, thereby accommodating Sabbath observers as well as New Yorkers who wish to enjoy a weekend away from home.

Assemblyman Kalman Yeger, a co-sponsor of the legislation added, “This common-sense legislation will fix a problem that New York City has refused to address. It is impossible for Shabbat-observant New Yorkers to comply with the Department of Sanitation’s new trash setout times. In 2023, the Sanitation Department personally promised me that Shabbat-observant New Yorkers need not worry about being issued summonses on Shabbat. Unfortunately, that promise has not been kept. Assemblyman Eichenstein and I are stepping in with this common-sense bill that should not be necessary, but unfortunately is. I’m grateful for his leadership on this, and I look forward to moving this bill through the legislature.”

Jerusalem’s Mayor Moshe Lion is Welcomed by Community Leaders in Brooklyn

Mayor Moshe Lion (third from left with Abe Lubinsky on his left and on his right Sammy Ayal) and members of the International Committee for Har Hazeitim, Dr. Paul Rosnstock , Menachem Lubinsky, Dr. Alan Mazurek, and Dov Fishoff.

Speaking at a distinguished leadership dinner of the Syrian Jewish community, Mayor Moshe Lion of Jerusalem appealed for increased participation of the Jewish community in protecting Har Hazeitim in the Holy City. The reception organized by leaders of the Syrian Jewish community gathered nearly 150 leaders of the community last month at Castel’s Restaurant on Avenue U in Brooklyn. The organizing committee consisted of noted activists Harry Adjmi, Sammy Ayal, and Elie Nackab. The event was sponsored by OP Jerusalem “luxury living.” The mayor was accompanied by Eyal Chaimofsky, chairman of the Jerusalem Development Authority, which oversees many historic projects in the capital.

Menachem Lubinsky, together with his brother Abe, founded the International Committee for Har Hazeitim in 2010 after years of neglect. Menachem passionately spoke about the holiness and historic significance of Har Hazeitim. In addition to being the oldest and holiest Jewish cemetery in the world, with more than 150,000 Jews being buried there, Lubinsky said, “Har Hazeitim was also the venue where the kohanim prepared for the avoda across the road in the Temple, where the ashes of the parah adumah (red heifer) were burnt, [and] where the new Jewish month was proclaimed, amongst other key milestones in Judaism. The Nevi’im Chagai, Zecharia, and Malachi, as well as Hulda are buried here.”

Rabbi Eli Mansour offered divrei beracha to the assemblage, focusing on the sanctity of Jerusalem and its connection to every individual. He praised the role of Mayor Lion in continuing to build the growing city of Jerusalem. A great deal of focus of the evening was on the planned Visitor Education Center on Har Hazeitim. After more than a dozen years of planning, the construction of the magnificent Center is under way.

Living Emunah – Where’s My Thank-You?

Community Magazine

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May 2025

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Rabbi David Ashear

“…when we recognize what Hashem gives us, it opens gates for more blessing. All Hashem wants to do is give us and give us again.”

The Torah commands us to know that Hashem runs the world: There is nothing beside Him (Devarim 4:35). The Ramban at the end of Parashat Bo writes that the entire purpose of Creation was for us to realize that Hashem is our Gd and to thank Him for creating us. The Ibn Ezra writes that the purpose of the mitzvot is to bring us to love Hashem and to cling to Him. The more we have Hashem on our mind, loving and thanking Him, the better we are accomplishing our job in This World.

Hashem calls us His children. A young child thinks about his parents all the time; he needs them for everything. This is how we are supposed to feel about Hashem. We should constantly have Him on our minds, because we need Him for everything, as well.

But if the purpose of life is to recognize Hashem, what about the millions of unaffiliated Jews who were never taught about Him? How will they fulfill their purpose?

I saw a parable quoted in Emunah Sheleimah that explains this.

After Jacob was fired from his job, he was a broken man. He didn’t know how he would support himself, and he couldn’t sleep at night.

One morning, after bringing his newspaper inside, he discovered two $100 bills tucked between two pages. At first he thought they were counterfeit, but then he examined them in the sunlight and realized they were real. From that day on, he found two $100 bills inside his newspaper every single day (except Shabbat), It was like the mahn!

One morning, by accident, his neighbor switched newspapers with him. When he asked for his paper back, the neighbor told him that his son already ripped most of it. He offered Jacob to keep his intact paper, but Jacob was adamant. He went to gather the shredded paper and found his $200.

This went on for four years. His neighbors could not understand how he was surviving without a job. It looked like he was always on vacation, enjoying life, yet still managing to pay his bills.

One day, when Jacob went out to get his newspaper, a man was standing on the lawn, foot firmly planted on the paper. Jacob was about to yell at him, but the man spoke first. “Where is my thank-you?” he asked.

“What?” Jacob responded in confusion.

“I have been supporting you for four years, and not once did you come to say, Thank you!” the man complained.

“Oh, I’m sorry!” Jacob replied. “I never saw you. I didn’t even know you existed.”

“That’s exactly what I’m talking about,” said the man. “For four years, you have been eating my bread, drinking my water, and you had no idea that I even exist? Not once did you bother to wake up early to see who is placing money in the newspaper?”

The same is true in our lives. Hashem gives and gives and gives. If a person doesn’t stop to think about his blessings or ask where they are coming from, he could miss Hashem. But, if a person honestly thinks about all the times he’s been helped and the myriads of blessings he has in his life, he doesn’t even need to be taught about Hashem. He will automatically recognize Him and run to say, Thank You.

Hashem does not need our recognition and gratitude. Rather, as the Sefer HaChinuch writes regarding the mitzvah of bikurim, when we recognize what Hashem gives us, it opens gates for more blessing. All Hashem wants to do is give us and give us again.

The Lighter Side – April 2025

Community Magazine

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April 2025

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Asking Your Age

An elderly Jewish man was called to testify in court.

“How old are you?” asked the District Attorney.

“I am, kayn aynhoreh, 81.”

“What was that?”

“I said, ‘I am, kayn aynhoreh, 81 years old.’”

“Just answer the question!” yelled the D.A., “How old are you!?”

“Kayn aynhoreh, 81,” the old man replied.

The judge said, “The witness will answer the question and only the question or be held in contempt of court!”

The counsel for the defense rose and asked the judge, “Your Honor, may I ask?” He turned towards the old man and said, “Kayn aynhoreh, how old are you?”

The old man replied, “Eighty-one!”

Y. S.

A Magician in the Making

“I am going to be a famous magician,” said Eddie to his father, “because I can make a golf ball float.”

Eddie’s father was very curious. “And how do you do that?” he asked.

“Well, it’s very scientific. It requires some magic ingredients,” said Eddie.

Eddie’s father leaned forward in his chair. “Oh, really?” he said. “And what are they?”

“Well, the golf ball, of course. And then two scoops of ice cream and some root beer.”

Francine M.

Just to be Safe….

A woman goes to her doctor with some concerns about her memory. She tells him that she forgets to pay bills, mail letters, and get groceries. And she can’t remember where she’s going or what she needs when she gets there. She looks quite worried and asks her doctor, “What can I do?”

The doctor replies, “Pay me in advance.”

Ikey S.

Bicycle Trouble

The first time my son rode a bike with training wheels, I shouted, “Step back on the pedals and the bike will brake!”

He nodded but still rode straight into a bush.

“Why didn’t you push back on the pedals?” I asked, helping him up.

“You said if I did the bike would break.”

Rosie Husney

Guilty of Annoyance

A defendant isn’t happy with how things are going in court, so he gives the judge a hard time.

Judge: “Where do you work?”

Defendant: “Here and there.”

Judge: “What do you do for a living?”

Defendant: “This and that.”

Judge: “Take him away.”

Defendant: “Wait! When will I get out?”

Judge: “Sooner or later!”

Joey S.

Free at Last

A man who’d been in jail for 20 years began to dig a hole out of prison with nothing but his bare hands and a spoon. He dug for three days and finally got out. He ended up in a preschool, surrounded by small children. He was so happy that he shouted, “I’m free! I’m free!”

A little girl standing next to him replied, “Big deal. I’m four!”

Joseph A. Guindi

Medical Advice

A man visits his doctor and says, “Doctor, I have a ringing in my ears.”

His doctor replies, “Don’t answer!”

Jack V.

The Truant Child

Teacher: “Mrs. Jones, I asked you to come in to discuss Johnny’s appearance.”

Mrs. Jones: “Why? What’s wrong with his appearance?”

Teacher: “He hasn’t made one in this classroom since September!”

Rosie S.

Some Uncle!

A man calls his brother with a request. He says, “As you know I’m going on a business trip soon, and if my wife gives birth while I’m away, I want you to name the twins.”

“It’ll be an honor to do that for you,” replies the brother.

A month later, the brother calls with news that the twins were born. “Your wife gave birth to a beautiful girl and a handsome boy,” says the brother.

“That’s wonderful! What did you call them?” the man asks.

“I called the girl Denice,” says the brother.

“That’s very pretty. And what did you call the boy?” asks the man.

“I called the boy De nephew.”

Joey B.

A Perfect Ten

Shulem and Pessy Schechter were parents to ten children – six boys and four girls. One night, Shaindy, their oldest, was chatting with her mother about how their parenting style had changed from the first child to the last. Pessy admitted that she had mellowed a lot over the years:

“When your oldest sister coughed or sneezed, I called the ambulance. When your youngest brother swallowed a nickel, I just told him it was coming out of his allowance.”

Sari K.

Consumer Warning

A little boy returned from the grocery store with his mom. While his mom put away the groceries, the little boy opened his box of animal crackers and spread them all over the kitchen table.

“What are you doing?” asked his mom.

“The box says you shouldn’t eat them if the seal is broken,” said the little boy. “I’m looking for the seal.”

Joseph D.

The Parking Ticket

The other day my wife and I went into town and visited a shop, browsing for a while. When we came out, there was a parking meter cop writing out a parking ticket. I went up to him and I said, “Come on, man, how about giving a senior citizen a break?” He ignored me and continued writing the ticket. I called him a dimwit. He glared at me and started writing another ticket for having worn-out tires. So my wife called him a birdbrain. He finished the second ticket and put it on the windshield with the first. Then he started writing more tickets. This went on for about ten minutes. The more we abused him, the more tickets he wrote. Just then…our bus arrived, and we got on it and went home.

Alfred Harary

Classroom Humor

Teacher: “James, do you use bad words?”

James: “No, sir.”

Teacher: “Do you disobey your parents?”

James: “No, sir.”

Teacher: “Come now, you must do something wrong every once in a while!”

James: “I tell lies.”

Gabe D.

Night Owls

Two boys were camping in the backyard. Late at night, they started wondering what time it was. “Start singing really loudly,” one of them suggested.

“How will that help?” asked the other boy.

“Just do it,” insisted the first.

They both started singing as loudly as they could. Moments later, a neighbor threw open her window and shouted, “Keep it down! Don’t you know it’s three o’clock in the morning?!”

Bobby T.

An Unlucky Break

Joey was playing in the schoolyard when he fell down and broke his right arm. His friend came running up to him with a big smile on his face. “Wow, Joey, you’re so lucky! Now you don’t have to take any exams!”

“Actually, I’m really unlucky,” replied Joey.

“What makes you say that?” the friend asked.

“I’m left-handed,” Joey moaned. “I meant to fall on my other arm.”

Carole H.

Riddles – April 2025

Community Magazine

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April 2025

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RIDDLE: A Long Line

Submitted by: Alfred K.

You draw a line. Without touching the line, how do you make it a longer line?

Last Month’s Riddle: The Hidden Number

I am a three-digit number. My tens digit is five more than my ones digit. My hundreds digit is eight less than my tens digit. What number am I?

Solution: 194

Solved by: Morris Kabani, The Big Cheese, Family Blum, Steve Salem, Janet D., Carol Ashkenazie, David E., and The Shmulster.

JUNIOR RIDDLE: Cookie Mystery

Submitted by: Janice P.

An elementary school teacher wanted to give her students a snack. She had ten cookies in her cookie jar – which was perfect – since she had ten students in her class. The teacher gave one cookie to each student, but still managed to keep one in the jar. How did she do it without breaking any of the cookies in half?

Last Month’s Junior Riddle: The More You Take

The more you take, the more you leave behind. What am I?

Solution: Footsteps!

Solved by: The Blum Family, Joshua B., Marc Esses, Morris Kabani, Eddie Fallas, Carol Ashkenazie, The Shmulster, Cynthia K., and Steve Salem.

The Hidden Costs of Selling Your Home Alone

Community Magazine

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April 2025

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The Hidden Costs of Selling Your Home Alone

Selling a home on your own may seem like a way to save money, but it often leads to costly mistakes, especially when it comes to pricing. Properly pricing a home requires a deep understanding of the local market, access to comparative sales data, and the expertise to interpret trends and buyer behavior.

The Plus of Professional Experience

Negotiating the sale of a home is far more complex than many homeowners realize, and doing it alone often results in missed opportunities or costly errors. Experienced brokers bring a wealth ofnegotiation strategies designed to protect your interests, including knowing how to handle counteroffers, gauge a buyer’s seriousness, and anticipate tactics like last-minute renegotiations.

A professional broker brings the experience, market insights, and negotiation skills needed to price the home accurately and attract serious buyers, ultimately maximizing your profit and ensuring a smooth transaction.

Without the assistance of a professional broker, homeowners may struggle to push buyers to increase their offers or to read subtle cues that suggest a buyer might try to lower the price at the eleventh hour. A skilled broker not only advocates for the best possible price but also manages the delicate balance of keeping the deal on track while safeguarding you from being taken advantage of, ensuring a smoother and more profitable transaction.

Consider the Risks of Going It Alone

Without the knowledge and skill that a professional broker has, homeowners risk undervaluing their property, leaving money on the table, or overpricing it, causing it to sit on the market for too long, which can cause it to develop a negative stigma. Within the past two months, we had two cases where the seller received an offer over $200K more then what they were going to accept before hiring a broker.

While selling your own home may seem appealing at first, one must consider the challenges that come with it and the risks involved. A successful sale is more possible if you find an expert real estate broker or agent that you can trust. I personally believe sellers get more even while paying a broker’s fee.

Costly Consequences

The following are some costs that sellers may incur without the guidance of a professional broker:

Pricing Pitfalls – Determining the right asking price is a crucial part in the process of home-selling. It requires in-depth knowledge of the real estate market in the area, including recent sales data, neighborhood trends, and the current demand for properties. When you sell your home without this comprehensive knowledge, you risk overpricing or underpricing your home. This can lead to an extended time on the market, thus decreasing your future buying power. A real estate agent is a key piece of the pricing puzzle who can ensure proper pricing based on local expertise and data, especially in Brooklyn where each block can be a few thousand off.
Negotiation Challenges – Negotiating the terms of a home sale can be challenging and overwhelming, especially when emotions are involved. Buyers want the best deal possible and the buyer’s agent will use their expertise to advocate for their client. Sellers will also have to deal with the home inspection company and the home appraiser. FSBO (for sale by owner) sellers may not have strong negotiation skills, risking concessions that hurt the sale. Rather than going through all these parties alone, lean on an expert real estate broker who can skillfully negotiate and advocate for you to secure the best deal.
Legal Risks and Closing Costs – FSBO sellers may make legal mistakes that lead to delays or lawsuits. Agents navigate complex contracts and closing costs to protect your interests.
Marketing And Exposure – In the world of real estate, effective marketing is a very important part in the process of attracting buyers. If you sell on your own, you may have difficulty when it comes to matching the reach of agents, resulting in limited exposure and less potential buyers.

Once Upon A Thyme – Rosemary Pot Roast with Roasted Potatoes

Community Magazine

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April 2025

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Adina Yakkov

Rosemary Pot Roast with Roasted Potatoes

There’s something about rosemary that elevates every dish. Its distinct pine-like fragrance and earthy flavors, especially when paired with red wine and garlic, add incredible depth to this roast. Warm, hearty, and bursting with flavor, this dish is perfect for any family gathering or Shabbat dinner. Slow-cooked to melt-in-your-mouth perfection, the aromatic infusion of fresh rosemary, garlic, and red wine will quickly make this a family favorite.

Ingredients:

2-3 lb. French roast
Salt and pepper, to taste
6 white onions, sliced
5 tbsp canola oil
1 cup red wine
1 tbsp mustard
½ tsp lemon zest
8 cloves garlic, minced
¼ cup brown sugar
4 twigs fresh rosemary or ½ cup dried rosemary
¼ cup red wine vinegar
2 lbs. Yukon Gold potatoes
Maldon flaky salt, for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

In a large pot, heat 3 tablespoons of oil over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and sauté until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
Pat the roast dry with paper towels and generously season it with salt and pepper on all sides.
Place the seasoned roast on top of the sautéed onions. Sear the roast for about 5 minutes on each side, until browned.
Pour in the red wine, lemon zest, mustard, garlic, brown sugar, rosemary, and red wine vinegar. Add enough water to the pot so the liquid comes up about an inch to the top of the roast. Cover and bring to a boil.
Once boiling, lower the heat to a simmer (low-medium flame) and cook for 3-4 hours. Check occasionally to make sure the liquid hasn’t evaporated. If the liquid level falls below the roast, add 1-2 cups of water at a time to keep it from burning. By the end of the cooking time, the liquid should be about halfway up the roast.
While the roast is cooking, scrub or peel the Yukon Gold potatoes. Cut them into halves or wedges. Toss the potatoes with 2 tablespoons of oil, salt, and pepper, then spread them evenly on a sheet pan.
Bake the potatoes at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for 20 minutes, covered. Flip them 1-2 times during cooking to ensure they cook evenly. After 20 minutes, uncover the potatoes and bake for an additional 10 minutes, until golden and crispy.
During the last 10 minutes of cooking the roast, add the potatoes to the pot, allowing them to absorb the flavors of the roast.

To serve, arrange the roasted potatoes along the outer edges of a wide, rimmed dish. Place the roast in the center. Spoon the flavorful liquid over the roast and potatoes. Top the roast with the cooked onions and garnish with fresh rosemary and Maldon flaky salt (if desired).