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Back to School: Getting Our Kids (and Ourselves!) Back on Track This September

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August 2025

Back to School: Getting Our Kids (and Ourselves!) Back on Track This September

Message from the Simha Health Organization

As the lazy days of summer wind down, a familiar mix of excitement and anticipation, perhaps with a touch of dread, starts to bubble up. Back-to-school season is almost here! Getting our kids ready for academic and social success involves more than just new backpacks; it requires preparation, communication, and a strong partnership between home and school.

Isaac Setton of the SIMHA Organization hosted a valuable discussion with esteemed school psychologists Mrs. Rose Lee Pifko of Magen David Yeshivah, Dr. Nicole Yossef formerly of Yeshivah of Flatbush and now of Yeshivah Prep Elementary School, and Dr. Simone Hidary of Barkai Yeshivah, who shared their expert insights on navigating this critical transition.

Embrace Challenges and Learn from Mistakes

A powerful takeaway was the importance of shifting from being “fixers and protectors” to “empowerers.” As Mrs. Rose Lee Pifko noted, allowing children to tackle challenges and even make mistakes is crucial for development.

“The growth zone, just outside their comfort area, is where real learning happens,” Mrs. Pifko explained. When children tolerate discomfort and push through challenges, they build skills like grit and resilience. This means gently nudging them to try new things, whether it’s a new club or a tricky social situation.

The experts highlighted the value of teaching children how to fail. By reframing failure as “just one possible outcome,” parents can alleviate the pressure. Share your own experiences with mistakes and challenges, show empathy, and use these moments as opportunities to teach problem-solving. This approach cultivates a crucial life skill: learning from setbacks.

Re-establishing Routine: The Foundation for Success

After summer’s relaxed schedule, getting back into routine can feel daunting. Dr. Nicole Yossef provided practical, actionable steps to ease this transition, emphasizing that consistency is key for children of all ages. The goal isn’t perfection, but consistent effort. The more regulated parents are, the more children will mirror that behavior.

The Power of Partnership: Home and School as a Unified Front

“When parents and schools work as a unified team, children receive consistent messaging,” Dr. Simone Hidary explained. This reinforces that they are supported and believed in. Parents offer invaluable insights into their child’s personality, while school staff provide expertise in child development and education. This synergy creates an “unbelievable partnership.”

Tips for a strong parent-school partnership include communicating with teachers and staff about any concerns, and approaching the school with the intention to collaborate with them respectfully.

Isaac Setton emphasized that the goal is “school plus parents,” not “school versus parents.” When children see that parents and school are on the same page, they receive consistent messages, understand expectations, and recognize that everyone is on their side.

Finally, the experts discussed balancing support with parental boundaries. Dr. Hidary highlighted that effective parenting involves both love and limits. Providing love and support while setting clear boundaries is essential for a child’s self-regulation and success. Children understand that rules are for their best interest, even if they don’t like them. As September approaches, let’s embrace these insights to empower our children and ourselves for a successful, fulfilling, and well-supported school year. By fostering open communication, building strong routines, and strengthening the vital partnership between home and school, we can set our children on a path to thrive.

Dr. Yossef’s Top Tips for a Smooth Gear Shift

Adjust Sleep Schedules: Gradually shift bedtimes and wake-up times earlier (20-30 minutes each day) to reset internal clocks.

Foster Independence: Involve children in choosing outfits the night before and packing healthy snacks. This gives them control and streamlines mornings.

Promote Healthy Eating: A balanced diet impacts mood and focus. Involve children in snack preparation for easier healthy choices.

Encourage Physical Activity: Aim for at least 20-60 minutes daily. Walking to school, playing outdoors, or joining a team improves focus and reduces stress.

Manage Screen Time: Set clear boundaries for screen use, explaining these rules are for their well-being. Encourage alternatives like reading.

Once Upon A Thyme – Greek Feta Salad

Community Magazine

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August 2025

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Adina Yaakov

Oftentimes, my clients comment how they feel hungry after having a salad, leading to cravings or overeating later on. Whenever building a salad as a meal, it’s important to include lean proteins, some carbohydrates, and healthy fats to keep you satisfied. This Greek salad has all the components for a filling meal. Healthy monounsaturated fats from the Kalamata olives and the olive oil based salad dressing help your body absorb the nutrients from the lettuce and vegetables. Low-fat feta cheese adds some protein, and the rice in the stuffed grape leaves count as the carbohydrates, leaving you feeling full and content.

Salad Ingredients:

8 oz romaine lettuce

1 cup cherry tomatoes

1 yellow bell pepper, sliced thin

½ red onion, sliced into thin strips

4 oz low fat feta cheese, cut into cubes or crumbled

½ cup pitted Kalamata olives

1 can stuffed grape leaves, drained

Optional: Basil or mint leaves, torn by hand

Dressing:

½ cup extra virgin olive oil

¼ cup lemon juice

1 tbsp red wine vinegar

4 cloves minced garlic

1 tsp Salt

¼ tsp black pepper

Recipe, photo, and styling by Adina Yaakov, Registered Dietitian Nutritionist.

Interested in optimizing these recipes for your specific health needs? Book a professional nutrition and dietetics consultation with Adina- sessions are available in person or via Zoom, and we accept many insurance plans.

https://provider.faynutrition.com/book/adina-yaakov/5d9a0a

For more recipes, visit her website www.OnceUponAThyme Questions or Comments? Have a request or idea for future recipes? Want to share a photo of a recipe you’ve made from this recipe column? Email us at [email protected]

Voices of Vision

Community Magazine

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August 2025

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Ellen Geller Kamaras

“My motto is ‘show your story.’ I show people their vision of themselves, reflect it back onto them, who they are, what their brand is, what the event they created felt like in the moment. Everyone has a unique feel and vibe, meant to be cultivated through video and music.” ~~ Nancy Mizrahi ~~

Please meet Nancy Mizrahi, a passionate and creative Gen Z storyteller, videographer, and film producer. Throughout her young life, she has worked on her personal development, growing her business, and making her vision a reality.

Let’s explore Nancy’s story and understand her personal, spiritual, and career trajectory. Nancy possesses a keen self-awareness, a goal-oriented focus, and a continual desire to learn and grow.

Origins

Nancy’s parents, Sabrina Benzaken and Roger Mizrahi were both born in Egypt and left with their parents due to the rise in anti-Semitism. Sabrina’s family moved to France when she was a year old and then to the U.S. Nancy’s father Felix was a tough and smart man who had a jewelry business on 86^th street in Brooklyn.

Nona Fortune, Roger’s mother, took her family to Italy for a short time and then to Israel. Roger greatly enjoyed his childhood in Israel, going to the beach and playing soccer, before moving to the States as a teenager.

Nancy is named after her grandmother Nona, who unfortunately passed away before Nancy was born. “I learned about her through stories and pictures: she was passionate about photography and fashion.”

Nancy has three older brothers, Mikey, Steven, and Solly, all of whom she admires.

The Early Years

Nancy became a storyteller in elementary school.

Nancy attended the Yeshiva of Flatbush from pre-school through eighth grade. Nancy especially enjoyed her English and history classes, “the storytelling classes.”

Nancy did well academically, particularly in elementary school. After graduating from Middle School at the Yeshiva of Flatbush she attended Lincoln High School. In high school all she wanted to do was explore the world. She did not like being confined to a classroom.

Nancy was a very creative child and enjoyed being in her own world. While she was on the shy side through high school, afterwards Nancy began to embrace her full self, and her extroverted nature. Her self-assuredness blossomed. This was primarily due to her spiritual growth and to her venturing into her own film business.

A pivotal moment occurred in Nancy’s eighth-grade science class. Nancy made a video for a group astronomy project. Her teacher, Mr. Schwartz, was silent when she presented the video in class. He then said it was the best one he had seen in his teaching career and he would show it as an example to future classes. “I’ll never forget that moment when I recognized my talent and skill. Before that, I had only made fun music videos and sketches with friends.”

Nancy took a film class with Mrs. Kaplowitz in high school with just two other students. They watched old films and discussed the themes and subliminal messaging, comparing them to modern films. It was her most enjoyable class.

Nancy’s Special Spark

Nancy describes herself as real, deep, spiritual, religious, adventurous, cultured, and outgoing.

She is passionate about life and sees every single day as a gift and new adventure. “I love to create, I have so many passions, my business is one of them. So much to do in this life and so little time.”

Mentors

Nancy’s family and other role models helped to shape her values, life and professional skills, and aspirations.

Nancy’s parents imbued her and her siblings with a love for life and allowed them to be themselves, guiding them lovingly.

Nancy attributes her work ethic and her open-mindedness to her mother. Sabrina worked in her husband’s business as a young girl and continued after she got married. Sabrina rises early and is a do-it-yourself person. A worldly woman, she enjoys traveling, learning about culture, and music. “My mom inspired me to be as real as possible and to always strive for more.”

Nancy’s brothers were all in musical bands. Solly can pick up any instrument and play it on the spot. Steven had his friends over to play guitar and sing. Mikey inspired Nancy’s creative side by showing her films. All three brothers helped Nancy to develop a keen interest in music and film, and nurtured her creative spark. Religiously, Mikey was a huge inspiration, and Nancy learned to grow slowly at her own pace.

Nancy is moved by the friends she grows with, who have their businesses and passions; some are wives, some are mothers, and some are single.

Nancy’s Film Career Trajectory

Outside of her family, Shifra Hanon, the creator of Flatbush Yeshiva’s High School Pathfinders Program, was her #1 muse. From Nancy’s early years in high school, Mrs. Hanon helped Nancy to find her rhythm. After graduation, Nancy worked as a Pathfinders administrative assistant, organizing student trips and facilitating exploration of potential careers. “If it wasn’t for Mrs. Hanon and her encouragement, I wouldn’t have my career today.”

Nancy’s other incredible mentors are Esther Sarway and Mazal Mizrahi, her Torah teachers, and Joy Dushey, her healing coach and friend.

At one of her first jobs for a fashion company, Nancy was assigned to organize a photoshoot. On a whim, she created a recap video of the day with clips from her iPhone. All the buyers loved the video, and her boss later hired her to create a slideshow for a birthday celebration. This small job was Nancy’s “aha” moment: she realized she could take her skill set further into a business.

Never having picked up a camera before, that same year Nancy asked a friend to help her film three videos for small businesses owned by community women. Nancy opened up a business account on Instagram and posted the videos one after the other.

The videos blew up and NMizrahi Productions was born. Shortly afterwards, Nancy secured her first real gig with POPBOX NYC.

Nancy’s Career Takes Off

About two years later, Nancy decided she needed to ramp up her business professionally. She learned more about pro-lighting, pro-audio, and pro-video and even spent the day at B&H Photo, endlessly asking questions. Nancy invested a large sum and was determined to pay it off through booking jobs, and with Hashem’s guidance she did.

During the pandemic, Nancy was busy with Covid weddings and promotional gigs. Nancy was also part of a giveaway trip in Paris, organized by Shelly Schmool of ByShelly. Shelly saw Nancy’s talents early and took a chance on her. She was a huge help in kickstarting Nancy’s career, for which Nancy is eternally grateful.

It was time to hire a main camera person and then professional drone people and graphic editors.

Since 2017, Nancy markets her business through Instagram and word of mouth. “There is something I gain from every job.” Her remarkable clients include life coaches, “Simply Traditional,” an amazing culinary project spearheaded by Rochelle Hanon Dweck, the powerful women at PROPEL Network, SAFE, Flatbush Yeshiva, Barkai, and Magen David.

Her female entrepreneurial clients include Jenny Braha Mizrahi, Jennifer Nissan, Randi Tamir, Sari Dana, and Heleyne Tamir.

Appreciation

“There is nothing comparable to the high of finishing a project. When all the pieces are finally put together, each scene in its place, and the song is perfect. You and your client have created something beautiful together, and there’s nothing like the smile on your client’s face.”

Nancy is immensely grateful for all the experiences she has had and the connections she has made with creative and impassioned people. Nancy is always looking forward to who she will meet next and future opportunities. “Every day in this business is a new adventure.”

To unwind, Nancy goes for coffee, prays, learns Torah, travels, meditates, cooks, and lives life in her best element.

What’s Next

Nancy seeks to cultivate presence and calmness in her life. She has many future goals and would like to motivate others through her business and spirituality. One goal is to produce her own podcast and another is to make a short film based on an inspiring story.

Nancy is not yet married and is looking forward to meeting her naseeb, being a mother, and giving her children a life where they can find their purpose.

Her advice to students: Focus on self-development. Enjoy and be present in school: absorb the knowledge you’re receiving. Take small steps to get closer to your goals.

Nancy would love to connect and hear from Community readers. You can DM her on Instagram – @NMPRODUCTIONS_INC or text her at 917-538-7810. Ellen Geller Kamaras, CPA/MBA, is an International Coach Federation (ICF) Associate Certified Coach. Her coaching specialties include life, career, and dating coaching. Ellen can be contacted at [email protected] (www.lifecoachellen.com).

Community Highlights – A Day for Everyone: Join the 11th Annual Hatzalah Carnival

Community Magazine

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August 2025

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Community Highlights – A Day for Everyone: Join the 11th Annual Hatzalah Carnival

Each summer, our community looks forward to events and fundraisers, often tailored to specific age groups – children, teens, or adults. But ten years ago, a group of young visionaries from the Jersey Shore set out to create something different: a day of fun and unity for all ages. That vision became the Jersey Shore Hatzalah Carnival – now one of the most anticipated events of the season.

With unwavering dedication, the organizing committee has worked tirelessly each year to ensure the carnival stands out as a highlight of the summer. The event features a wide range of attractions, including thrilling rides, classic games, a petting zoo, a BBQ feast, and treats like cotton candy and popcorn. In previous years, carnival-goers have enjoyed unforgettable experiences such as an outdoor ice skating rink and a 200-foot zip line – testament to the team’s creativity and commitment.

More than just a day of entertainment, the carnival serves a meaningful purpose: to bring the community together in support of Hatzalah of the Jersey Shore. The dedicated Hatzalah volunteers are available around the clock – 24/7, 365 days a year – responding to emergencies with compassion, professionalism, and selflessness. This event is a way for the community to express heartfelt appreciation for their tireless efforts.

The 11th Annual Jersey Shore Hatzalah Carnival will take place on Sunday, August 10, 2025, from 11am to 6pm at the JCC Jersey Shore, 100 Grant Ave in Deal. Everyone is invited to join for a day of fun, community spirit, and gratitude.

Flatbush Shomrim Assists in Arrest After Armed Robber’s Getaway Goes Awry

A failed robbery attempt in Flatbush last month ended in an unexpected twist when the suspect was struck by a car while fleeing the scene.

According to Flatbush Shomrim, the incident began around 1:13pm when the suspect entered the post office on Coney Island Avenue between Avenues I and J, brandished a firearm, and demanded cash from an employee. After firing two shots and failing to obtain any money, he fled the scene and attempted to rob a nearby Western Union.

When that second attempt also failed, the suspect tried to make a getaway on a moped but was hit by a car on Coney Island Avenue. This allowed responding officers to quickly apprehend him.

Fortunately, no injuries were reported in either incident.

Caring for Our Homebound Seniors with Love

A growing number of our community’s seniors are homebound and often socially isolated. Judaism teaches us to honor and care for the elderly – with reverence, respect, and compassion.

Many homebound seniors are alone, without adequate physical care or meaningful stimulation. While telehealth has helped some, many older adults lack the technology to benefit from it.

Local organizations like Sephardic Bikur Holim and the Sephardic Community Center provide wonderful programs – but what about those who can’t leave their homes?

Morris Sutton, a finance professional and devoted son, made it his mission to change that. After experiencing firsthand the challenges of finding quality care for his late mother, Ruth Sutton, a”h, Morris created a new model: personalized, respectful care delivered at home.

For four years, Morris lived with and advocated for his mother, carefully selecting aides who provided not just physical care, but social and emotional connection. Inspired by this experience, Morris now helps other families do the same.

Through trusted referrals, Morris connects families with caregivers trained to go beyond basic care – offering companionship, engagement, and joy.

“Our seniors deserve to live with dignity, stimulation, and purpose,” says Morris. “We can’t let them fade into isolation.”

If you’re seeking compassionate, high-quality care for a homebound loved one, Morris Sutton is ready to help. Morris can be reached at 516-523-9688 or [email protected].

Living Emunah – Job Well Done

Community Magazine

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August 2025

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Rabbi David Ashear

In life, it’s Hashem Himself giving the tests, and Hashem Himself observing how we react.

The Sefer Emunah Sheleimah tells of a man named Naftali who was trying out for a position as a teacher of children who needed a little extra attention. He prepared for hours, finding just the right subject matter to keep their attention and make an interesting presentation.

The day of the model lesson arrived. At the school, the principal introduced him to the class, then sat in the back of the room, observing.

Naftali started the lesson with a smile and a pleasant demeanor, but two minutes in, one of the boys started making noises with his chair. Then he stood up and moved his chair back and forth, clearly attempting to disrupt the class.

Naftali could be short-tempered, but he knew this was a test and he was being watched. He calmly went over to the boy, took the chair, and said, “Come, tzaddik, I see this chair isn’t good for you. Let me give you a better one so you could enjoy the class with everyone else.” The student sat down quietly and the principal was impressed.

Naftali proceeded to give the lesson and then asked several questions. But the boys’ answers had nothing to do with what he had asked, in what was clearly another attempt to derail his class. As he contemplated how to get back on track, a paper airplane landed on his desk and the boys burst out in giggles.

Now what? Naftali had prepared diligently, but he realized that his planned lesson was not going to be appreciated. You’re being tested, he reminded himself. Stay calm.

He picked up the paper airplane and smiled. “Chazal tell us that the Anshei Knesses HaGedolah received the text of the Baruch She’amar prayer from a note that fell from Heaven. I see that I also just received a note; maybe it was also from Shamayim.”

The students laughed and quieted down. Again, the principal was very impressed.

At the end of the model lesson, the principal brought Naftali into his office. “We have had numerous candidates,” he said, “including some very good teachers, but no one had the patience you displayed. We’re offering you the position.”

It was the sabotaging of all his hard work that enabled Naftali to prove who he was capable of being.

Life is like a model lesson. We prepare and hope things will go according to plan, but very often they don’t, and we’re confronted with adversity. During those times, we have to remind ourselves that it’s a test to bring out the best in us.

In life, it’s Hashem Himself giving the tests, and Hashem Himself observing how we react. Every time something happens that could upset us, we’re being tested. The contentious neighbor who we think is our biggest problem was sent to test us, to try our patience, to see how well we have been working on our character. The party we weren’t invited to, the friend who forgot to pick us up, the person who was late to the meeting and made us wait – they are what enable us to become great, to overcome our natural reactions, and respond the way Hashem wants us to respond.

This is what impresses the Boss and causes Him to say, so to speak, “Job well done.” We all experience situations that threaten to aggravate us. We must always remind ourselves that we’re being tested. It’s all planned by Hashem. And the harder it is overcome, the greater the potential reward.

Ask Jido – August 2025

Community Magazine

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August 2025

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Dear Jido,

I heard that hope is the essence of a Jew and I always try to have hope. So, I hope and hope, but a lot of times I get my hopes up and that leads me to feeling very down. My hopes create expectations and when those expectations aren’t met, I am frustrated. What should I do?

Signed,

Confused

Dear Confused,

Hope is the essence of a Jew – Yes!

I always try to have hope – Good. Keep it up!

So I hope and hope – Yes! Yes!

…and that leads me to feeling down. Hmmmmm…

First, understand that no one can tell you how to feel. If your feelings are genuine, you need to understand how to deal with them. Some things to consider are – were your expectations realistic? Did you put all the pieces in place to make your hopes realizable? Was what you were hoping for, in the end, what is really best for you?

How could you know? We can’t. Whether it’s – that job, that spouse, that house, that peace agreement. We trust that someday we will realize that what Hashem ultimately did for us WAS the best.

In the meantime, accept your feelings. Discuss them with close friends or family members. Thank Hashem for all the other blessings He has already given you. Focus on all of the positive things in your life and allow the feelings of frustration to pass.

We as Jews have been HOPE-ing for better times for 2,000 years. HOPE-fully those days are just around the corner – for all of us.

Jido

The Lighter Side – July 2025

Community Magazine

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July 2025

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Horsing Around

A family went to a ranch to go horseback riding. They all had the chance to pick out their own horses. The dad was the last to pick his out because he helped his kids all get on their horses first. As he kicked his foot into the stirrup, an old ranch hand, leaning against a fencepost, drawled out, “I don’t know about that old nag, mister. She don’t look so good.”

The dad, sweating and ready to start said, “She looks fine to me. Can we just get going?” The ranch hand shook his head and said, “It’s your ride, mister.” And he motioned to the lead horse to get started. The horses knew the way and started off.

About an hour later, the family returned. The dad was all covered in dust. His face was all scratched up and his shirt had been torn in several places. “This is an outrage!” he yelled. “This horse ran into trees, tore through thornbushes, and ran headlong into low hanging branches. It’s like she’s blind!”

The ranch hand pulled a piece of straw from between his teeth and said, “Well, she is.”

“Why didn’t you warn me?” screamed the dad.

“I did,” said the ranch hand. “I told you she don’t look so good.”

Max B.

Dudu’s Gym

Saul joins a local gym in Jerusalem called “Dudu’s.” He can never find the time to go, but when he gets a letter in the mail saying that Dudu’s will cancel his membership unless he renews, he rushes down to make a payment.

When he arrives, his speaks to the gym’s owner, Dudu, and says half-jokingly, “So be honest with me, do you have a name for guys like me who join and never show up?”

“Yes,” says Dudu. “Profit.”

Allan R.

New Security System

The Israelis are developing an airport security device that eliminates the privacy concerns that come with full-body scanners at the airports. They have a booth that you can step into that will not X-ray you, but will detonate any explosive device you may have on you.

They see this as a win-win for everyone and there would be none of this junk about racial profiling. This method would also eliminate the costs of a long and expensive trial. Justice would be quick and swift.

Case Closed!

You’re in the airport terminal and you hear a muffled explosion. Shortly thereafter, an announcement comes over the PA system…

“Attention standby passengers – we now have a seat available on El Al flight number 386.”

Benjamin S.

Udder Confusion

There were two cows out in a field, talking to each other. The first cow said, “I tell you, this mad cow disease is really pretty scary. They say it’s spreading fast – I heard it hit some cows down on the Johnson Farm.”

The other cow replies, “I am not worried, it don’t affect us ducks.”

Ronnie P.

No Strings Attached

Two strings walk up to a restaurant. The first string walks in and orders and the owner throws him out and yells, “I don’t serve strings in this restaurant!”

The other string messes his hair up, ties an overhand in his midsection and walks in. The owner shouts, “Hey, didn’t you hear what I told your buddy?”

The string says “Yeah.”

The owner says, “Aren’t you a string?”

The string says, “No, I’m a frayed knot!”

Donna A.

Encyclopedia Junior

Mrs. Rosenstein was hired as the new librarian at the local yeshiva and one of the skills she wanted to teach the students was how to find information the old-fashioned way – without the internet. So, she found a deal on an encyclopedia set and had it delivered to the library.

On a tour of the library, Eli saw the encyclopedia volumes stacked on a bookshelf.

“What are all these books?” Eli asked.

Somewhat surprised, the librarian replied that they were encyclopedias.

“Really?” Eli said. “Someone printed out the whole thing?”

Simon S.

Engine Trouble

A large two-engine train was crossing New York and at the helm was a train engineer who had recently moved from Israel – Itzik Hadari. After they had gone some distance, one of the engines broke down.

“No problem,” Itzik said and carried on at half power. Farther on down the line, the other engine broke down and the train came to a standstill.

Itzik decided he should inform the passengers about why the train had stopped, and made the following announcement, “Ladies and gentlemen, I have some good news and some bad news. The bad news is that both engines have failed, and we will be stuck here for some time. The good news is that you decided to take the train and not fly.”

Lisa N.

Dressing Up

Miriam said to Harold, “Honey, I need a new dress.”

“Miriam, you can’t just go shopping all of the time,” said Harold.

“But I need a new dress,” said Miriam.

“What’s wrong with the one you’ve got?” asked Harold.

“It’s a little long and…well… the veil keeps getting in my eyes.”

Carol K.

Duty Calls

Abe goes to see his boss and says, “We’re doing some heavy house cleaning at home tomorrow and my wife needs me to help with the attic and the garage, moving and hauling stuff.”

“We’re shorthanded, Abe,” the boss replies. “Sorry, but I just can’t give you the day off.”

“Thanks, boss,” says Abe, “I knew I could count on you!”

Raymond F.

Eating Out

David and Cathy lived in a small town so they didn’t get to go out and eat in kosher restaurants very often. That’s why they were very excited about their trip to New York.

They went to a restaurant that they had been to on their last trip to New York years ago, and because it was the height of tourist season the restaurant was packed.

Finally, catching the eye of an overworked waiter, David said, “You know, it’s been over five years since we first came in here.”

“You’ll have to wait your turn, sir,” replied the harried waiter. “I can only serve one table at a time.”

Ralph M.

Face to Face

Little Shloimie was sitting on his Zadie’s lap as Zadie read him a bedtime story. From time to time, Shloimie would take his eyes off the book and reach up to touch Zadie’s white beard, and his wrinkled cheek. Shloimie would alternately stroke his own cheek. Finally Shloimie spoke up, “Zadie, did Hashem make you?”

“Yes, Shloimie,” he answered. “Hashem made me a long time ago.”

“Oh,” he paused. “Zadie, did Hashem make me, too?”

“Yes, indeed,” he said. “Hashem made you just a little while ago.”

Feeling their respective faces again, Shloimie observed, “Hashem’s getting better at it, isn’t He?”

Adele G.

Riddles – July 2025

Community Magazine

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July 2025

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RIDDLE: Coffee or Coke??

Submitted by: Susan B.

George, Helen, and Steve are drinking coffee. Bert, Karen, and Dave are drinking Coca-Cola. Following this pattern, is Elizabeth drinking coffee or soda?

Last Month’s Riddle: What Am I?

I am something people love or hate. I change people’s appearances and thoughts. Some people might want to try and hide me, but I will show. No matter how hard people try, I will never go down. What am I?

Solution: Age!

Solved by: Morris Kabani, Murray Dana, The Shmulster, Family Dweck, Benjamin Dana, Haim S., The Big Cheese, Lisa G., and Mireille Baum,

JUNIOR RIDDLE: Taster’s Choice

Submitted by: Greg K.

What tastes better than it smells?

Last Month’s Junior Riddle: Family Tree

A girl has as many brothers as sisters, but each brother has only half as many brothers as sisters. How many brothers and sisters are there in the family?

Solution: Four sisters and three brothers!

Solved by: Isaac Dana, Daniel Esses, Dweck Family, Nechama Moradi, Jaclyn Dana, H. Soleimani, Big Mike, Mireille Baum, and The Shmulster.

From the Files of the Bet Din

Community Magazine

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July 2025

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The Case

To Sell or Not To Sell

Upon the passing of their father, Harry and Steven inherited a valuable piece of real estate. Harry, a father of seven children, told his single brother, Steven, that he wished to sell the property as he was in desperate need of funds. Steven responded that it would clearly be a mistake to sell at this time, and suggested that they maintain their partnership and share in the rental proceeds equally. In Bet Din, Harry submitted a written offer from a third party for the purchase of the property and commented that it would be a shame to reject such an aggressive offer. Steven refused, and instead offered to advance to Harry 100 percent of the rental proceeds as a loan. Steven made it clear that he was in no rush to get paid back his share of the rent, and in the meantime, Harry could use the extra cash flow to provide for his family. Steven’s only stipulation was that he be the one to decidewhen to sell the property, and that upon the property’s sale he be paid back the rent he advanced to Harry. Harry rejected his brother’s offer, explaining that he was presently indebted to others and was not interested in additional loans.

Can Harry force Steven to sell? Can Steven force Harry to be his partner? Is Steven’s offer to extend Harry his share of the rent as a loan an enforceable option? How should the Bet Din rule and why?

Torah Law

According to the ruling of the Shulhan Aruch, an heir of an estate is entitled to sell his share of a property to an outside party. Hence, if two brothers inherit a property, one brother cannot prevent the other from selling his half to a third party.

However, this rule of the Shulhan Aruchdoes not allow one heir to force another to sell a commercial property in its entirety. Likewise, an heir cannot require his fellow heir to buy his share when seeking to terminate the partnership. As long as the possibility of selling his share alone to the outside market exists, no further rights are extended to him. In the instance in which private property is inherited and it is impossible for one heir to sell his own individual share to an outside buyer, a competent halachic authority is to be consulted.

Nevertheless, as with all partnerships, the right of first refusal is granted to one’s fellow partner before a joint property can be sold to a third party on the outside market. Hence, before an heir can finalize the sale to an outside third party of his portion of the estate, his fellow heir and partner is entitled to buy his share if he is willing to match the terms and purchase price offered by the third party. The laws governing the right of first refusal are extensive, and only a competent halachic authority can determine when and if they are applicable.

Although it is a positive commandment from the Torah to extend a loan to a fellow Jew in need, nevertheless, it is obvious that one cannot compel another to accept a loan. Furthermore, the laws of interest are violated if a lender stipulates, when extending a loan, that any benefit or gift of any sort is to be provided by the borrower over and above return of the money that was loaned to him. This restriction prohibits a lender from stipulating to more favorable terms in a partnership agreement on account of a loan he is extending to his partner.

VERDICT:The Right of First Refusal

Our Bet Din rejected the claims of both Harry and Steven. Even though Harry received a written offer from a third party to purchase the entire property, he is still not entitled to require Steven to sell his share of the estate to the third party. On the other hand, although Steven offered Harry a loan, Harry is not required to borrow money to maintain their partnership in the property.

Furthermore, Steven’s imposition of a condition on the loan offer to Harry, his partner, would violate the Torah’s prohibition on interest. The stipulated right to determine when and if the property is to be sold would constitute a prohibited benefit received by Harry from Steven because of the loan he is extending to Steven, and is therefore forbidden. Our Bet Din explained to Harry that since the property inherited was commercial, he can readily find a buyer for his share. But the mere ability to find an outside buyer for the whole property is insufficient to require his brother Steven to sell to that buyer or to buy out Harry’s share. Four months later, Harry found a potential buyer for his share of the estate. At that point he had the right to sell to that buyer. However, his brother Steven did offerto match the purchase price and terms of the buyer. Once Steven expressed his intent to exercise his right of first refusal, Harry was required to sell his share to Steven on the terms the outside third party had offered. Upon selling to Steven, Harry thus terminated his partnership with his brother.

YOU BE THE JUDGE

The Most Valuable Possession on Earth

Charles, may he rest in peace, was a leading community member who back in the 1970s dedicated a Sefer Torah to his local synagogue. Upon his passing, his two sons built a new synagogue in memory of their beloved father and they requested of their local synagogue to return to them their father’s Sefer Torah. They explained that their father never intended to give the Sefer Torah to the shul as a gift. As heirs of their father’s estate they wish to reclaim the deposited Sefer Torah and transfer it to the new synagogue dedicated in honor of their father. The shul’s committee objected to returning the Sefer Torah insisting that it was the shul’s property. They reasoned that Charles, a”h, donated it over forty years ago and although he was a regular congregant, he never mentioned his intent to one day remove it from the shul. Furthermore, Charles passed on nearly two years ago and this is the first time his sons are requesting the Sefer Torah. The sons counterclaimed that the simple reason why they or their father never mentioned their ownership rights, is because it was obvious to them all along that the Sefer Torah was their private property.

Do the sons have the right to transfer the Sefer Torah to another shul? Who is the rightful owner of the Sefer Torah? How should the Bet Din rule and why?

Building Dreams Together – Why Real Optimism Leads to a Healthier, Happier Life

Community Magazine

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July 2025

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Building Dreams Together – Why Real Optimism Leads to a Healthier, Happier Life

Jack Gindi

“For everything good, there’s something bad.”

The quote above is what a friend once told me her grandfather used to say. He meant it as wisdom – a way to stay realistic. But her father heard it as a warning. He internalized it with worry, and over time, he passed that anxious way of living on to her.

We don’t always realize it, but the way we process life becomes the emotional blueprint our children inherit. The way we handle setbacks, big or small, teaches them how to face their own. Each of these moments either plants the seed of possibility – or reinforces the habit of limitation.

Building Dreams Together is about more than just parenting – it’s about the beliefs we unknowingly pass down. Many of the stories we live by aren’t absolute truths; they’re inherited perspectives shaped by culture, family, and fear. When we pause to examine them, we create space for change. And now, research shows it may even influence how long – and how well – we live.

Many people confuse surface-level positivity with optimism, but they’re different animals. Positivity focuses on feeling good right now – emotions like joy, gratitude, and calm. Optimism links today’s meaning to tomorrow’s possibilities. It’s how we turn challenges into stepping stones for a better future.

Real Optimism Adds More Than Years

Studies reveal something remarkable: people who live with purpose and direction tend to live longer, often by 11 to 15 years. That’s comparable to the benefits of regular exercise or quitting smoking.

But here’s what many people miss: it’s not about wearing rose-colored glasses. The people who thrive aren’t necessarily the cheeriest. They’re grounded and resilient – able to find growth even in difficult circumstances.

This practice – finding meaning in challenges – is the real secret to a longer, richer life.

How to Think Like a Real Optimist

If you grew up with fear, scarcity, or negativity as your default setting, you’re not alone. The good news is: you can change your mindset, and in doing so, change what you pass down to the next generation. Here are five simple daily practices anyone can start right away.

Start Each Day with Gratitude: Name three things you’re grateful for each morning. This simple act shifts your brain toward joy and possibility.

Choose Your Mental Diet Carefully: Today’s media often profits from panic. You don’t have to consume it all. Be selective about what information you take in each day – seek balanced, constructive perspectives.

Ask Better Questions: When facing challenges, ask: “What’s possible here?” instead of “Why is this happening to me?” Better questions create better outcomes.

Notice the Turning Points: Each day, identify one challenge and ask, What did this teach me? or How did I grow today? This transforms discomfort into development.End the Day with Reflection: Write down three good things that happened – and how you contributed. This builds awareness of your power to shape your day.

Why Optimists Live Better

They take better care of themselves, not out of rigid discipline, but because they believe tomorrow is worth preparing for.
Their bodies handle stress differently. When you believe challenges have meaning, your body doesn’t react with the same damaging stress response. Your heart, immune system, and even your DNA stay healthier.
They build stronger relationships, and living with purpose leads to deeper connections. These become your safety net in hard times.

Even their cells age differently – research shows that purpose helps protect telomeres, the chromosome caps tied to aging and disease.