Victor Cohen

In recent years,responding to plans to build a casino on Coney Island, right in our backyard, many throughout the community voiced their opposition to the project, and campaigned against it. Thanks in part to these efforts, the project has been struggling to receive the approval of the relevant municipal bodies.

The reason for the widespread opposition in our community should be clear and obvious. Easy access to a casino would, without question, lure many – particularly youngsters – to try out gambling. We all know that gambling is not only inconsistent with our Torah values, but also highly addictive, often destructively so.

Meanwhile, as this battle continues to be fiercely waged, a different gambling crisis has arisen – one which has already embedded itself deeply within our community: sports betting.

A Handheld Casino

Recent years have seen a surge of online sportsbooks and sports betting apps, which are promoted by torrents of advertisements. DraftKings, FanDuel, ESPNBet, BetMGM, and countless other sportsbooks offer free bets to ensnare newcomers. They also partner with celebrities and players, put out live promotions during games, and invest heavily in enticing users to keep betting on games. These sites and apps have, tragically, brought large numbers of youths into the clutches of gambling addiction, creating a whole generation of compulsive gamblers.

Let’s be honest about what many of these online sportsbooks are: a casino located in your pocket, or in the palm of your hand. They allow users to play the full range of typical casino games on their phone. Shockingly, every smartphone is now a Coney Island Casino.

This scourge of online gambling poses a grave threat to our community youngsters.

To learn more about this challenge, which has quickly become a full-fledged community crisis, I sat down with Ike Dweck, the founder of the SAFE foundation –an outpatient drug, alcohol, and gambling addiction facility, with clinics in Brooklyn and Deal. We spoke about the dangers of the sports betting apps, the tactics they use to get users hooked, as well as Ike’s own struggles with gambling and his heroic journey to break free of addiction. We also discussed potential solutions that are currently in the works, and warning signs for those concerned about a friend or child.

“They Don’t Really Care”

Already in 1992, Congress acted to protect our society from the dangers of sports betting, passing the Professional and Amateur Sports Protection Act, or PASPA, which prohibited states from allowing sports betting. But in 2014, the State of New Jersey, under governor Chris Christie, challenged the law’s constitutionality by legalizing sports betting within the state.

“People in New York would start gambling on their phones by just going over the bridge into New Jersey,” Ike recalled.

The NCAA (National Collegiate Athletic Association) sued the state, demanding that it enforce the federal law. The case continued under current New Jersey governor Phil Murphy and reached the Supreme Court in 2018. In Murphy v. NCAA, 584 U.S. 453 (2018), the Court voted to strike down PASPA, thus leaving the decision of whether to allow sports betting up to states. As more and more states followed New Jersey’s lead and legalized sports gambling, the industry of sports betting apps quickly surged, growing into the frightening behemoth that we unfortunately see today. In New York, due to lobbying from DraftKings and FanDuel, online sportsbooks became legal in January 2022.

And so when you turn 21, you are allowed to set up an account through an online sportsbook, which offers an enticing bevy of free bets. Most of the apps give you a few hundred dollars to “play” with. You cannot withdraw this money – you must spend it on a bet, playing their game. This is the primary method these online sportsbooks use to pull in innocent, unsuspecting users – they offer free bets, enabling the new customer to experience the thrill of gambling. This all but ensures that they will come back and continue playing with real money, and even long after these companies made back the money they “lost” by baiting the newbies.

“The website and casinos – they don’t really care,” Ike said. Why should they? They make loads of money off people’s addictions, hardships, and struggles – and will gladly continue to make money if left to their own devices. There is lots of money to be made from addicts. There is money to be made by placing all those expensive advertisements during sports games, given the potential for huge profit if they can get someone to sign up. There is money to be made by having a user place even just one too many bets.

The “free bets” convince your brain that gambling and betting is not just good, but exciting, something that gives you a high. Once that happens, you can easily get hooked and end up coming back again, again, and again – and the greatest thing any company can have is a repeat customer who uses its services frequently.

In other words, addiction is these businesses’ best friend. And so getting people addicted – and keeping them addicted – is their modus operandi.

A Minefield of Triggers

This brings us to their second important strategy –ubiquity. Flooding the internet and airwaves with advertisements helps not only to bring in new customers, but also to bring back customers who had succeeded in breaking loose.

A recovering alcoholic can avoid bars and liquor stores to protect himself from temptation. But a recovering sports betting addict has almost no way of avoiding the lure of gambling. An eye-opening essay in Scientific American(January 23, 2025) by Allison Parshalltitled,“How ‘Dark Patterns’ in Sports Betting Apps Keep Users Gambling” describes the difficult challenge faced by recovering gambling addicts trying to stay away from these apps: “A lapsed customer who receives a push notification, e-mail or text with an enticing ‘limited time’ offer for 10 ‘free bets’ might be someone with a gambling problem who is trying to quit.”

Parshall draws an analogy to a person dealing with alcohol addiction who, after several weeks of sobriety,is approached on his way to work by the fellow who runs his favorite bar, and he says, “Here, take a free shot of tequila!” It would be exceedingly difficult for the recovering alcoholic to decline. This is precisely what happens to recovering gamblers all the time.

“You can’t watch a baseball game without a commercial telling you to bet,” Ike said.

For a recovering addict, commercials promoting the online sportsbooks create a minefield of triggers that can easily get them sucked back in, especially considering the ease with which these apps can be accessed. One of the great benefits of modern technology – having everything at our fingertips, allowing us to check our email, write up proposals, fill orders, text, call, take pictures, work accounts, and do just about everything with just the tap of a few buttons – is a major pitfall for gambling addicts. The next bet is just a few button taps away. All it takes is the right advertisement during a football game, the right push notification at a time when the algorithm knows you’re looking at your phone, the right offer at the right time, to hook the recovering addict back in and get more money out of him.

It takes just a few taps on your screen to gamble away your entire week’s paycheck – and it takes the same amount of taps to lose a whole year’s paycheck, and even to bet away all your life’s savings. For a compulsive gambler, it is like a giant hole at the bottom of hisfinancial boat, which can cause it to sink at any moment.

Underage Gamblers

“Everybody’s desperate and thinks it’s easy to win,” Ike explained, further noting that although the apps ‘require’ you to be 21, it just does not work like that in practice. “People steal their parents’ credit cards, social security numbers, and open accounts as young as 13 or 14 years old. The email is in their name so their parents would never know.They’ll go on FanDuel and just open an account.”

Unfortunately, that is not the only way underage children can gain access to the online sportsbooks.

“They have friends who have brothers who have accounts who let them bet every night,” Ike says, and – just as in the case with drug addicts – once the money runs out to support their addiction, they find ways to get more. This could be by lying, manipulating those around them, or even stealing from their parents and pawning off jewelry. Once they are addicted, they will do whatever it takes to be able to continue their compulsively betting.

The SAFE foundation has, since its inception, always dealt primarily with alcohol and drug addiction, but this past year, the number of clinical assessments they conducted for gambling problems has risen by 48 percent. This dramatic increase offers a glimpse into how rapidly the issue has escalated.

It behooves us, then, to take a step back and ask ourselves: is this what we want for our future? Do we want the younger generation exposed to all this?

An Addict’s Recovery Story

In searching for solutions, there is perhaps no one better to listen to than Ike, who not only runs an organization that has been dealing with this issue for many years, but has also personally struggled with – and successfully overcome – a gambling addiction.

Ike began betting on sports when he was 12 years old. Back then, there were no sports apps, so he had to rely on other methods to place bets.

“When I was growing up,” he recalls, “there were no apps, so to bet you had to get a ‘bookie,’ who wasn’t the most honest guy in the world.”

He placed bets on all kinds of sports games, and as he got older, it took over his life.

“I couldn’t go on a vacation if it didn’t have a casino,”

His father asked him to join Gamblers’ Anonymous, and he was in and out for many years. However, he didn’t really listen to what they were telling him. This continued until he finally hit rock bottom at the age of 23. His life was out of control, he owed money to the bookies, and he was “sick and tired of being sick and tired.” He went back into Gambler’s Anonymous– and began to listen.

They told him to stop watching TV and stop reading the newspaper, because the sports section in the back could cause him to relapse. He was advised to make a list of all the people he owed, and to pay them back little by little. He was also advised to stop hanging out with the people he used to gamble with. With the help of Gambler’s Anonymous, Ike managed to find his way out.

Later, in 2003, Ike founded SAFE to help those plagued by addictions. He speaks at high schools throughout our community, telling his story and helping as many people as he can.          

“Don’t Do This Yourself”

For those currently gambling who recognize that they need to stop, the most important thing is to reach out to a professional. Compulsive gambling is an addiction, and requires professional intervention to begin the path to recovery.

“Don’t do this yourself,” Ike pleads. “You need help. Even going to a Gambler’s Anonymous meeting could help.”

For the past nine months, SAFE has been lobbying New York State Senators, explaining to them the dangers of online sportsbooks and the prevalence of underage gambling, in an attempt to convince them to change the laws in New York. The problem, Ike says, is that the State makes a great deal of money from the taxes on the gambling companies’ revenue, and so the lawmakers are reluctant to impose restrictions.

Ike concluded by offering some helpful advice for those who are concerned about a friend or family member’s possible gambling addiction.  Some warning signs, he says, are “if they’re borrowing money, or there’s a friend that always wants to play cards on Saturday night, or they’re staying up late for all the games.”

If you are worried about your child, he says, look for “missing jewelry, the kid not doing well in school, or if he’s also always asking to borrow money.”

Technology, with all its extraordinary advantages, has also presented several enormous challenges, some of which have received more attention than others. Ike and the rest of the SAFE foundation hope to draw the community’s attention to the challenge of gambling addiction, and to inform everyone of its unique risks. The first step to curing this destructive ill is spreading awareness. By working together to inform our youngsters of this alluring but dangerous activity, we can begin to tackle the problem of sports betting and help ensure a bright future for all our community’s youth.

When Korach, Moshe’s first cousin, launched his brazen revolt against Moshe’s authority, challenging his and his brother’s right to leadership, he brought some “big names” with him.  Like a good politician seeking to earn public support, he made a point of getting some prominent people on board.  These included 250 “princes of the congregation” (“nesi’eh edah” – 16:2), identified by our sages as the leading Torah scholars of that generation.  Korach also brought onto his team Datan and Aviram, two well-known “rabble rousers” who already had a long history – dating back to Egypt – of challenging Moshe.

These people had different stakes in the game.  Korach, the commentators explain, resented the appointment of another of his cousins – Elitzafan –to the position of leader of the Kehat family, a position which Korach felt he deserved.  The 250 rabbis were motivated by genuine spiritual longing, passionately wishing to have the privilege to serve as kohen gadol inside the Mishkan.  And Datan and Aviram, as mentioned, were always looking for opportunities to oppose Moshe.  What these people all had in common was discontent with Moshe’s leadership, and so they banded together to challenge his authority.

On Ben Pelet

In the opening verses of the story of Korach, the Torah also mentions another figure who appears to have played an important role– a member of the tribe of Reuven named On ben Pelet.  We are given no information about him, but if he is mentioned by name, it stands to reason that his participation in the uprising was significant.

This implied significance makes it especially striking that his name never appears again later in the story.On ben Pelet is listed among the main instigators, but we never hear about him again.

The Gemara (Sanhedrin 110a), noting On’s mysterious “disappearance,” fills in the missing details, telling the fascinating story of how this prominent participant in Korach’s uprising was saved from the tragic fate that befell his cohorts.On’s wifewas an exceptionally wise woman, and she saw what On could not see due to his having been blinded by Korach’s charm, and by the excitement of the controversy.  She asked On what he stood to gain by joining Korach’s revolt.  After all, if the uprising succeeded, then Korach would be the leader instead of Moshe.  On would not benefit at all.  There was no advantage to his supporting Korach.

On accepted his wife’s advice, but he said it was too late.  He had already sworn loyalty to Korach’s cause, and the rebels were relying on his participation.  He could not back out at this point.

On’s wife devised a plan.  She gave him lots of wine to drink, and he fell into a deep sleep.  When Korach’s men came to bring On to join in their confrontation against Moshe, she removed her hair covering and stood outside their tent.  Korach’s men would not approach the tent, as she was standing there with her hair exposed, and so they turned around.  On remained asleep during the ill-fated confrontation between Korach’s followers and Moshe, which resulted in the burning of the 250 men who vied for the role of kohen gadol, and in the ground opening and devouring Korach, Datan and Aviram.

Manoah

Let us leave the story of Korach, and fast forward many years, to the period of the shoftim, to a time when Beneh Yisrael suffered bitterly at the hands of the Pelishtim who were terrorizing them.

We read in the Book of Shoftim (13) – in the section read as the haftarah for Parashat Naso – of a man named Manoah who was childless for many years.  One day, an angel appeared to Manoah’s wife and informed her that she would soon bear a child who would lead Beneh Yisrael to victory against the Pelishtim.  As this child would be designated for a special leadership role, the angel explained, he would need to abide by certain restrictions.  His hair must never be cut, and he must never drink wine.

Manoah’s wifewent to her husband and told her about the angel.  Seemingly mistrusting her, Manoach beseeched Gd to send the angel a second time to explain the rules regarding the child that was going to be born.  Sure enough, the angel appeared to Manoah’s wife a second time, and she ran to bring Manoah.  When he arrived, the angel told him that he must follow the guidelines that his wife had been told. 

Later, Manoah’s wife delivered a boy, whom they named Shimshon.  As the angel promised, Shimshon led Beneh Yisrael in the campaign against the Pelishtim.

At this point, I expect the reader to wonder why this story is presented here in this article, in the context of the story of On ben Pelet.  It certainly appears that these two men have absolutely nothing to do with one another.

However, one of the great Italian kabbalists, Rav Menahem Azaryah of Fano (“the Rama Mi’Fano,” 1548-1620), taught that these stories are very closely connected.  In fact, although one took place many years after the other, they actually involve the same people!

The Rama Mi’Fano writes that Manoach and his wife were gilgulim – reincarnations – of On ben Pelet and his wife.  In both stories, the wife takes the leadership role, guiding and instructing her husband.  In the case of On ben Pelet, this is obvious, but in the sort of Manoah, too, his wife was the one who received the instructions from the angel, and, moreover, the verse states that when the angel returned, “vayelech Manoah ahareh ishto – Manoah followed his wife.”  It is clear from the story that Moah was led by his wife, just as On ben Pelet’s wife steered him in the direction he needed to go.

The Rama Mi’Pano adds that Shimshon, Manoah’s son, was to abstain from wine – which is what On ben Pelet’s wife used to save him.  And the name “Manoah” means “rest,” an allusion to On’s deep slumber during his cohorts’ confrontation with Moshe.

The question, then, becomes, what is the meaning and significance of this connection?  What are we to learn from the reincarnation of On ben Pelet and his wife, and their becoming the parents of Shimshon?

The Long Haul

The answer becomes clear in light of a mysterious feature of the story of Manoah.

We find in Tanach several stories of women who were unable to conceive.  We are all familiar with the stories of Sarah, Rivkah, Rachel, and Hannah.  Another example is the “Shunamite woman” who cared for the prophet Elisha.  In all these instances, the couple prayed for children, or had some merit on account of which they were blessed with a child.  The notable exception is Manoah and his wife.  The text gives us no indication of what they did to be blessed with a child after many years of infertility.  We do not hear about them praying or performing any special mitzvah for which they were rewarded.

The Rama Mi’Fano’s theory solves this mystery.  Manoah and his wife were blessed in the merit of On ben Pelet’s wife.  Her wisdom and her initiative saved her husband’s life, and, moreover, helped preserve the honor of Moshe Rabbenu by taking away a prominent participant of the uprising.  The reward came many years later, in the form of Shimshon.  On ben Pelet’s wife saved her husband – and so she was blessed with a child who would end up saving Beneh Yisrael from the Pelishtim.

These might seem like esoteric concepts which bear no direct relevance to us, but I would like to draw our attention to one practical lesson that we all need to learn, and that is the long-term impact of our actions.  The full reward for On’s wife came much later, well after she passed away – teaching us that the fruits of our efforts are not reaped right away, but in the future, and sometimes even in the very distant future.

Spiritual Patience is Needed

Technology has accustomed us to expect immediate results, to access information at the press of a button, to have food ready and prepared the moment we feel hungry, to experience gratification right away when we want something.  We have, I’m afraid, grown impatient, demanding “on-demand” results.

But religious life doesn’t work this way.  Torah commitment is not about immediate results or immediate gratification.  Learning Torah can be difficult and challenging, and often it is only after years of hard work that we experience the indescribable joy and satisfaction that Torah knowledge brings.People who embrace observance as adults, or who decide to raise their level of observance as adults, are likely to struggle at first before enjoying the delights of religious life.  And, we never know when and in what form the rewards for our mitzvot will come.  If we pray, learn Torah and fulfill mitzvot with the expectation of right away seeing our rewards, we will be sorely disappointed, and disillusioned.  We must be in it for the long haul.

Every prayer has value and helps us.  Every good deed we perform yields incalculable rewards.  Every small amount of Torah we learn builds us and brings us closer to Hashem.  More often than not, we will not see the value, rewards and benefits of our prayer, learning and observance, but we believe that at some point – perhaps even long after we leave this world – our efforts will bear fruit.

The Mishnah in Pirkeh Avot (1:3) urges us not to be like servants who serve their master solely for reward, and to instead serve Hashem without expecting reward.  This is not because we cannot expect rewards for our efforts – but because we never know when or how we will be rewarded.

Let us, then, commit to perform mitzvot with joy and vigor – trusting that each and every good deed is more valuable than we can ever imagine.

Michele Shrem

As the sun shines brighter and the days grow longer, families across the nation gear up for the quintessential summer tradition: the backyard barbecue. But what makes a BBQ truly memorable? Is it the smoky aroma wafting through the air, the sizzle of meat on the grill, or the laughter shared among loved ones? Everyone brings their own unique perspective to the art of summer grilling. Here are a few community members’ thoughts.

Grill Master – David

To perfect the art of grilling, a great BBQ starts with great technique. For the grill master, the key to a successful BBQ lies in the details. In order to enhance flavor and juiciness it is a good idea to marinate meats overnight, and for chicken it can really prevent dryness. Grilling isn’t just about cooking, it’s a passion. The importance of preparation starts with a clean grill. If you don’t take the time to clean it first you may end up with unwanted flavors in your food.

David also advocates for the use of quality tools. Invest in a good set of utensils. Having a sturdy spatula and tongs can make flipping burgers and turning steaks a breeze. The final tip is that patience is key. Don’t rush the process. Let the meat rest before serving to ensure juiciness. It is important to use a meat thermometer to ensure meats are cooked to the right temperature to avoid under or overcooking. Another important step is letting the meat rest. This allows grilled meats to redistribute the juices before serving. This will give you the best results.

You can also experiment with wood chips. Adding soaked wood chips to your grill can infuse a smoky flavor to your dishes. ​ If you focus on these techniques, you will ensure that every bite is flavorful and perfectly cooked. ​

Healthy Parent – Jennifer

Balancing flavor and nutrition can be a difficult task for a parent. BBQs can be a great answer to being able to enjoy delicious food without compromising on health. You don’t have to sacrifice taste and yet still gain healthy nutritional options by opting for lean meats like chicken breasts or fish. They are lower in fat and can be just as flavorful when grilled properly. You can even have plant-based options including veggie skewers, portobello mushrooms, or plant-based burgers to cater to all dietary preferences. ​

Another way to offer your family healthy options is to grill fruits, such as peaches or pineapples for a sweet and healthy dessert option. Try to limit high sugar content sauces, and instead use dry rubs or homemade sauces with reduced sugar content to enhance flavor without compromising health.

​These choices ensure that the BBQ is both tasty and nourishing for the whole family. ​Jenny suggests incorporating more vegetables into the BBQ spread. Grilled vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and asparagus not only add color to your plate but are packed with nutrients. Jenny recommends using marinades made from olive oil, lemon juice, and herbs to enhance flavor without adding excess calories.

Jenny says, “As a mother of four, I know the challenges of feeding a family. Part of the reason that I love to grill is because it’s quick and easy. Throwing some chicken on the grill while I prepare a salad or side dish makes dinner time less stressful. I find that involving my children in the process can also be important. My kids love to help and making them part of the process makes them more excited about the meal.

“My best tip is to prep your ingredients ahead of time. Marinate meat the night before and chop vegetables in the morning.”

Fun Entertainer: Raymond 

I love BBQs because they’re fun and I love the food! I like to make up mini portions like sliders or small skewers. They also happen to be great for young children since they are easy to hold. I like setting up a DIY food station/topping bar for burgers and hot dogs, allowing kids to customize their meals. ​

You can also set up fun games to play, for example, organize a scavenger hunt or water balloon toss to keep the little ones entertained. ​Even adults like to play games! Lawn games like cornhole or frisbee can keep guests entertained while the food is being prepared. You can make your own s’mores or fruit popsicles for dessert. I like creating a memorable atmosphere. It’s not just about the food; it’s about the experience. I set the stage for each event based on the type of guests I have invited to the party.

I like to use themed decorations such as a Hawaiian luau, 50s style, or retro 80s. To me, making a music playlist and curating it to the theme is super important, as well as adding both classic hits and current music. I like to add dance music too, since a backyard is a great dance floor.

You can use string lights or lanterns to create a cozy ambiance as the sun sets, and arrange seating areas with cushions and blankets for a relaxed vibe. ​ By focusing on these elements, you can ensure that your guests have a fun and engaging experience. ​

Eco-Friendly: Berta

Being environmentally conscious at a BBQ is both responsible and rewarding. It’s great to have fun and be kind to the planet at the same time. Use eco-friendly tableware by opting for reusable plates and utensils to reduce waste. ​ Choose sustainable fuel by selecting natural lump charcoal or propane over traditional charcoal for a cleaner burn. ​You can setup a compost bin for organic waste like vegetable peels, and a recycling station to ensure that recyclables like cans and bottles are properly sorted. ​ These practices help minimize the environmental impact of your BBQ while still enjoying all the fun. ​It is a great idea to source locally by shopping at farmers’ markets to support local farmers and it also ensures fresher ingredients.

Beginner Griller: Jeff

Even if you are new to the world of grilling, it can be easy and you can start with simple recipes. Burgers and hot dogs are a great simple meal and very easy to grill. If you are a beginner, you should preheat the grill before cooking to make sure everything cooks evenly and does not stick. Also, use a meat thermometer. It takes the guesswork out of cooking and ensures your meat is safe to eat -160 F for meat 165 F for poultry.

Hot dogs and thinly made burgers also don’t need too much time on the grill. After you master those items, the sky’s the limit, and you can try anything after that. You may even find that you hardly use your oven inside, because it becomes so much fun to grill.

Dessert Lover: Estee

No BBQ is complete without dessert, and instead of heading to the store to pick up cake and cookies, you can grill up some sweet peaches – add a drizzle of honey, and a sprinkle of cinnamon, and your meal is completed. Another easy idea is to grill pound cake slices. Grill them until they’re slightly crispy, then top with fresh berries or a scoop of pareve ice cream and whipped cream. And we all know that everything tastes better with whipped cream!

Veggie Committed: Laura

Grilling vegetables brings out their natural sweetness and adds a smoky, charred flavor that enhances their taste and texture. To prepare, simply toss sliced vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, eggplant, mushrooms, onions, or asparagus in olive oil, salt, pepper, and your choice of herbs or spices. Place them directly on a preheated grill or in a grill basket, and cook over medium-high heat for a few minutes per side until they develop grill marks and become tender.

Grilled vegetables make a perfect side dish, salad topping, or even a hearty vegetarian main when served over grains or paired with a flavorful sauce.

Helpful Hints

Preparation is key to a smooth BBQ, and organization is key. Follow these steps for your next BBQ to run smoothly and efficiently:

Create a Menu: Plan the dishes ahead of time, considering dietary restrictions and preferences.

Prep Ingredients: Marinate meats and chop vegetables the night before to save time.

Set a Timeline: Establish a cooking schedule to ensure everything is ready at the right time​.

Delegate Tasks: Assign roles to family members, from setting the table to grilling.

Safety Tips

Safety First, Fun Always:  Keeping safe to prevent accidents is crucial.

Inspect the Grill: Check for gas leaks or damaged parts before use.

Keep a Fire Extinguisher Nearby: Be prepared for any flare-ups.

Maintain Distance: Keep children and pets away from the grill area.

Avoid Leaving the Grill Unattended: Always have someone monitoring the grill.

Marinade Ideas

Garlic-Herb Marinade

1. Olive oil, minced garlic, lemon juice, fresh rosemary, thyme, salt, and black pepper
2. Let veggies marinate for 20–30 minutes before grilling

Balsamic Glaze

1. Balsamic vinegar, olive oil, Dijon mustard, honey, and crushed black pepper
2. Adds a sweet-tangy depth, especially good for mushrooms, onions, and peppers

Spicy Chili-Lime

1. Olive oil, lime juice, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, and a pinch of cayenne
2. Great for corn, zucchini, and carrots

Asian-Inspired Soy-Ginger Marinade

1. Soy sauce, sesame oil, grated ginger, garlic, rice vinegar, and a touch of brown sugar
2. Perfect for eggplant, peppers, or snap peas

Dry Seasoning Ideas (for quick prep)

Middle Eastern: Hawaage, salt, pepper (This works unreal for lamb.)

Mediterranean: Oregano, thyme, garlic powder, paprika, sea salt

BBQ-style: Smoked paprika, onion powder, brown sugar, chili powder

Indian-inspired: Curry powder, turmeric, cumin, coriander, black pepper

Simple & Classic: Sea salt, cracked pepper, and fresh chopped herbs like parsley or basil after grilling

I hope you all enjoy these helpful tips for a great summer BBQ! Michele

Sam Sutton

The 2025 M&S Softball season has arrived – and it’s louder, deeper, and more competitive than ever. With over 50 names on the waiting list, one thing’s crystal clear: if you’ve got a spot this year, you earned it.

This offseason wasn’t just about stretching hammies and oiling gloves. It marked a cultural reset. A new energy. A different intensity. Every captain came locked in, and the draft room felt more like a war room. No picks were wasted. No names taken lightly. And as the rosters took shape, so did the storylines.

Let’s break down the squads that’ll write the next chapter of M&S:

King Salomon Part Deux
Captain: Michael Sabon Salomon
Sabon set the tone for the entire draft by pulling off a pre-draft trade to acquire the #8 overall pick – giving him the coveted 1-and-8 combo. He used his top selection on Zack Ashkenazi, widely considered the best all-around player on the board. At #8, he snagged Yitz Sutton, the top arm in the draft – giving his team a bona fide ace from Day One.

From there, Sabon stacked the deck with playoff experience and big-game DNA. He reunited the veteran duo Teddy Ishak (TI) and Sammy Esses, a pairing with years of chemistry and hardware. He brought back Morris “Mo” Shamah, one of the league’s most dependable bats, and added Eric Cytryn, a respected defensive anchor and proven playoff performer.

Vandelay Industries
Captain: Sammy Seruya
Rookie captain – rising star. That’s the book on Sammy Seruya, the slick shortstop with who hit superstar status. But Seruya wasn’t shy on draft night – he took a big swing on unproven slugger Howie Hoffman, betting on upside and power. And he’ll be riding with rookie pitcher Abraham Benhamu to anchor his defense and set the tone on the mound.

Backed by key pieces like Sauly Esses, Jimmy Malakh, Bernie Pindek, and Yossi Abramson, Vandelay is an intriguing mix of high potential and proven leadership. It’s a team that could click fast – or grow into a monster by playoff time.

Texas Longhorns
Captain: Max Yedid
A familiar face is back in the saddle – Max Yedid, former M&S Cy Young winner and championship pitcher, makes his return to the captain’s chair. He drafted a veteran-heavy roster built to win. Names like Allie Marshall, Butchie Cohen, and Maurice Haber headline a squad that’s been there, done that, and knows how to get it done when it counts. Max is back – and so is the fear factor that comes with playing against his team.

Sephardic Bananas
Captain: Edmund “The Phenom” Beyda
The reigning World Series champ is back and looking to repeat. Last year, Edmund “The Phenom” Beyda captained a magical playoff run, and this year, he ran it back with a nearly identical core. His draft centerpiece? None other than his clutch companion David “Buca” Cohen. With names like Isaac Sasson, Jack Sutton, and Alan Jemal rounding out the roster, the Bananas have chemistry, confidence, and championship DNA.

Kaboom!
Captain: Uri Adler
Let’s just say… Uri changed it up this year – and it might be his best build yet. Gone is the typical Uri mold. In its place is a sleek, powerful new roster led by Sol Fallas, Nadav Auerbach, and Abraham Saka. On paper, Kaboom has speed, power, arms, and attitude. It’s a no-nonsense team that could light up the scoreboard or lock down your offense. If the vibes hold, this group is a serious title threat.

Thundering Hooves
Captain: Gabriel Abadi
Gabe Abadi did what Gabe does – drafted a crew full of high-character, high-talent, high-vibe guys. With Mark Barsano, Carlos Abadi, and Ricky Rothstein in the mix, Thundering Hooves are built for deep playoff runs. Gabe’s squads always play loose, play hard, and play for each other. He’s still searching for that elusive first title – but don’t be surprised if this is the team that finally delivers it.Stayin’ Alive
Captain: Michael Melech Solomon
He’s back. A former fan-favorite captain, Melech Solomon returns with a roster full of loyalty and edge. He went straight to the well early, drafting his longtime guys – Steven Gindi (SJG), Joe Sefaradi (Joe S), and Saul “Soco” Cohen. But what makes this team fascinating is the youth infusion. Melech rolled the dice on wild-card youngsters like Sol Assis, one of the most polarizing players in the league. High ceiling, high volatility – and if they click, Stayin’ Alive might stay alive deep into the postseason.

Love and Fear

How do we work through the negative forces inside of us?

Rav Wolbe (Alei Shur, Vol. II, p. 363) recommends having a discussion with those forces: “Listen, I have no choice here. Hashem is my King; He’s the Boss over my impulses and urges, too. I am responsible for all my deeds. Gd gave me so much, and I owe Him so much. So do me a favor, guys, and just behave.”

Positive self-affirmations are powerful tools, which help cultivate a more positive and optimistic outlook on life. They allow us to reframe our negative thoughts and beliefs, replacing them with positive, empowering ones that help us to feel confident, motivated, and capable.

By taking control of our inner dialogue, we can influence our emotions, thoughts, and behaviors in a positive way, leading to greater well-being and success in all aspects of our lives.

Regularly repeating positive affirmations helps to ingrain them in our subconscious mind, allowing them to shape our beliefs and attitudes. This can lead to a ripple effect, positively impacting not only our own self-perception, but also our relationships with others, our work performance, and our overall life satisfaction.

Whether it’s affirming our worth, reminding ourselves of our strengths, or simply focusing on the good in our lives, the power of positive affirmations should not be underestimated. By making self-affirmation a daily habit, we can harness its potential to transform our lives for the better.

Now, one may ask, “What if I don’t want to get up in the morning in time to say Kriat Shema, especially on a Sunday morning?”

That’s when we have to remember that this is not the real us. The yetzer hara has stolen our identity, convincing us that we don’t want to get up. Actually, we want to get up; it’s the yetzer hara that doesn’t want us to get up. And the yetzer hatov, which is speaking to us in second person, has to say, “Do you know what you owe Gd? You’re sleeping on His mattress. You’re living in His house. The least you can do is get up in time and pray.”

We must have a dialogue with ourselves, to figure out how to cajole ourselves into doing the right thing.

But it’s a little bit deeper than that.

The Gemara (Sotah 47a) says that when dealing with a tinok, a child, one must employ the dictum: “S’mol docheh v’yamin mekarevet – The left hand drives away and the right hand draws near.”  According to Rashi, if we’re too tough on a child, he is going to run away and commit suicide out of fear. Pull him close with the dominant hand, the right one, and only use the weak hand, the left one, to push away and to discipline him.

Essentially, this is a carrot and stick approach to motivation, and actually mirrors the way we are supposed to motivate ourselves regarding our relationship with Hashem: love and fear.

Love-based motivation refers to the drive that comes from a positive, internal force such as a desire for happiness, fulfillment, or connection with others. Love-based motivation helps individuals pursue their goals and aspirations in a way that is aligned with their values and sense of purpose. It leads to feelings of happiness, satisfaction, and a sense of belonging, and can be a powerful force in overcoming challenges and obstacles.

Fear-based motivation, on the other hand, is driven by an external force such as the fear of failure, rejection, or negative consequences. While fear can be a powerful motivator, it can also lead to stress, anxiety, and a lack of confidence. However, when used in moderation, fear-based motivation can help individuals to avoid dangerous or harmful situations, and to take steps to protect themselves.

The end-goal is to find a balance between the two. When individuals are driven primarily by love, they may overlook important practical considerations or avoid taking necessary risks. When they are driven primarily by fear, they may become paralyzed by anxiety or become overly cautious. By balancing love-based and fear-based motivation, individuals can find a healthy and sustainable way to pursue their goals and aspirations, leading to greater well-being and success.

TAKEAWAY:

As will everything else in life, balance is key. In order to be the best oveid Hashem possible, work on ways to serve Him out of both love and fear. 

As the temperatures rise, so does the excitement for innovative tech designed to enhance your summer experience. From smart pool monitors to robotic dogs, this year’s lineup promises to bring fun, convenience, and safety to your summer adventures. Dive into our selection of the hottest gadgets that can transform your summer into a season of unforgettable moments.

Petoi Bittle Robot
The Petoi Bittle robot is a palm-sized robot dog developed for fun but also serves as a STEM gadget. It walks, plays tricks, and rolls around just like a real dog, maneuvering on all kinds of terrains. You can teach it new skills and use it for STEM education, making it ideal for learning and research projects.

Lifebuoy Pool Motion Sensor & Alarm System
There’s no such thing as having too many safeguards in place to protect your little ones when you own a pool. The Lifebuoy Pool Motion Sensor & Alarm System alerts you if someone or something falls into your pool. Since it floats, there’s no need to drill holes in your deck or pool to secure it, and it’s portable for vacations.

Fitrus Plus 3.0
A single fingertip scan reveals seven vital health metrics that typically require multiple medical devices. It measures body fat, heart rate, oxygen levels, temperature, muscle mass, BMI, and metabolic rate. With a single charge lasting up to 20 days, health-conscious users can detect potential issues weeks before they would normally warrant a doctor’s visit.

Ordro M5
Three-axis stabilization transforms jerky amateur footage into smooth, professional-quality video with minimal effort. A 120-degree ultra-wide lens captures more of the scene while AI tracking keeps subjects in focus. The 3.5-inch touchscreen makes control simple, making the Ordro M5 a great candidate for road trip adventures.

Quick Press
Creating professional custom t-shirts typically takes hours, but the Quick Press does it in 15 seconds flat. With a 15-second transfer time, you’ll produce professional designs on shirts, totes, and other materials in minutes, making it perfect for quick and creative projects.

Lefeet P1 Underwater Scooter
Explore coral reefs twice as long with this 5-pound underwater scooter that extends your diving range exponentially. Its modular design mounts to legs, tanks, or surfboards for versatile use, transforming mobility underwater for both beginners and experienced divers.

Tornado Cargo Ebike
Capable of hauling 400 pounds at 25 mph, this cargo e-bike replaces short-distance delivery vehicles entirely. It comes with lights, turn signals, and reliable brakes. Adjustable seating and suspension ensure comfort even when fully loaded, making it ideal for urban deliveries.

X1 Auto Bed Vacuum
Dust mites multiply by millions in mattresses. This UVC-equipped vacuum eliminates what regular cleaning misses. Pet owners and allergy sufferers notice improved sleep quality after regular use, as it reaches deep where allergens hide, significantly reducing morning symptoms.

Govee Hexagonal Light Panels
If you’re looking for innovative lights to make your room more engaging, look no further than these Govee Hexagonal light panels. The LED light kit offers a unique way to create functional decorations, adding a smart touch to any space.SUTRO Smart Floating Pool Water Monitor
Do you feel like a mad scientist trying to measure the chemical levels in your pool? Eliminate the stress and guesswork with the SUTRO Smart Floating Pool Water Monitor. This monitor automatically tests your water three times a day and alerts you when you need to add chemicals, keeping your pool water clean, safe, and beautiful. It even works with saltwater pools.

What Are Sinuses?

Every so often, you’ve probably heard people complain about a sinus headache or a sinus infection. Have you ever wondered what sinuses are?

Your sinuses are vital to the health and well-being of your body. Sinuses are pockets of air located within the bones of your head and face. They’re sometimes referred to as sinus cavities.

These sinus cavities are lined with soft, moist tissue, called mucus membranes, which help to moisten the air you breathe. They also make mucus, a sticky substance that helps trap dust and bacteria. As you breathe in air through your nose and mouth, the air moves through the sinus passages on the way to the lungs, and the mucus helps humidify and filter the air.

Very small hairs, called cilia,line the mucus membranes. Cilia move back and forth to push any mucus through tiny openings called ostia, which connect to the inside of your nose. Any fluid or mucus that collects in the sinuses will drain through the ostia into your nose and then down the back of your throat, where it will be either swallowed or coughed out. The draining of mucus helps keep your nose moist, and it filters out dust and bacteria. Sinuses also act as an insulator to help warm the air you breathe.

What Is Sinusitis?

Sinusitis, or a sinus infection, is when sinuses become infected or irritated. Doctors estimate that over thirty-seven million Americans develop sinusitis every year! These infections usually follow colds or bouts with allergies. When someone has a cold or allergies, his nasal passages become swollen and make more mucus…and so do the sinus tissues. The sinuses need to be able to drain regularly and freely in order to clear mucus and function properly. If the drainage gets blocked, it creates sinus problems that can lead to a sinus infection.

The sinuses extend through the cheekbones, the forehead, behind the nose, and between the eyes.

Sinuses are not fully developed at birth, but you have the following four sinuses by the time you reach your teen years:

* Frontal sinuses, which are in the bone of the forehead, above the bridge of the nose, close to your eyes. There is one frontal sinus on either side of the face (one by each eye).

* Maxillary (MACK-suh-lair-ee) sinuses, which are by your cheekbones. These are the largest of the sinuses. There is one maxillary sinus behind each cheekbone.

* Ethmoid (ETH-moid) sinuses, which are between the eyes, behind the bone at the inside corner of each eye. There are three small pairs of ethmoid sinuses.

* Sphenoid (SFEE-noid) sinuses, which are behind your nose. There are two sphenoid sinuses, and they are located behind the ethmoid sinuses.

True or False??

Sinus infections are contagious.

False. There is no evidence to suggest that sinus infections are contagious. However, you may get a cold from someone else, which can then lead to a sinus infection (if not cared for properly). Washing your hands regularly can help keep germs and colds away.

DAVE GORDON

Yeshiva Bnei Shimon Yisrael and Talmud Torah of Kasho, both in Williamsburg, were informed by the New York State Education Department on February 11^th (after allegedly ignoring final warnings issued in December)that the institutions did not meet state mandated curricula requirements. Therefore, they were slated to lose state subsidies for meals, transportation, textbooks, and other services.

The yeshivot were sent letters in both English and Yiddish from the Education Department stating  that in addition to the lost funding, that parents were to enroll their children in other schools by July 1, as reported by Ynet and the New York Post.

“The yeshiva system provides a rigorous education, no less demanding than public schools,” community leaders responded in a statement.

The Education Department’s letter also stated that they reached out several times to the yeshivot and determined that each of the institutions were “no longer deemed a school, which provides compulsory education fulfilling the requirements of Article 65 of the Education Law.”

The following May, four other unnamed yeshivot were also facing the same situation, according to The Jewish Press.

These yeshivot were given a June 30 deadline, by which time they were required to show that they were offering curricula that was “substantially equivalent” to public schools, as required by state regulations adopted three years ago.

This marks the first time the New York State Education Department has taken such extreme action, ordering parents to find alternative educational arrangements for their children for the upcoming academic year.

According to the New York Post, that meant choosing a different religious school that meets legal requirements, homeschooling, or a public school.

Educational Standards

This past February, Ynet News reported that the issue initially arose as a result of a 2022 New York Times investigation, that claimed at least 18 publicly funded yeshivot failed to meet state educational standards.

Despite the controversy, Mayor Eric Adams said in response to the report, “Yeshivas provide a high-quality education that nurtures our children, and other schools should learn from them.”

Jewish News Syndicate (JNS) asked educational expert Moshe Krakowskito weigh in. He responded that these yeshivot were not falling short on the state’s expectations.

Krakowski is a professor at Yeshiva University’s Azrieli Graduate School of Jewish Education and Administration and is the Director of Doctoral Studies at Azrieli. He studies American haredi education and culture.

“There are many Chassidic schools that offer the basics of reading, writing, arithmetic, social studies, and civics through at least the seventh through eighth-grade level,” Krakowski told JNS, adding that they “spend most of their day in incredibly rigorous, high-level religious study – and it’s not like these kids are left truant.”

Politicians Get Involved

In an attempt to placate both sides, two local Jewish politicians have since become involved in the issue–City Councilman Simcha Felder and Assemblyman Simcha Eichenstein (District 48).

Their efforts appeared to have initiated an anonymously sponsored Assembly draft bill on March 11^th, determined to revise the standards that religious schools must meet. As of press time, the draft bill has entered in the final stages of budget negotiations. Reportedly, it was tucked into a budget bill to ostensibly bypass the legislative process.

Simcha Felder issued a statement to Community Magazine saying that he was “pleased that the New York State budget includes a seven-year pause on the implementation of the State’s overreaching regulation of our nonpublic schools, including yeshivot.” He added that he remains “hopeful that the State’s willingness to reverse this policy permanently will continue to grow over time.”

Felder represented the 44th district on the New York City Council from 2002 to 2010, represented the 17th district in the New York State Senate from January 2013 to December 2022, and represented the 22nd district from January 2023 to April 2025. He won a special election for New York City Council in the 44th District in March.

Felder said that while he served in Senate, he “consistently made the case that New York’s diverse educational needs are not one-size-fits-all and that results, not timekeeping, are the only way to judge educational quality.” 

He added that Senate Majority Leader Andrea Stewart-Cousins and Deputy Majority Leader Michael Gianaris paid close attention to the community’s concerns and “recognized the vital role these institutions play in providing quality education for our children.”

Advocacy Group and Four Brooklyn Yeshivot Take a Stand

Following the state’s letter to the yeshivas, the advocacy group Parents for Educational and Religious Liberty in Schools (PEARLS) filed a federal discrimination complaint, alleging that New York’s actions interfere with the autonomy of yeshivot and constitute discriminatory practices. PEARLS is comprised of families of students. educators, religious leaders, and community members mostly from Borough Park, Crown Heights, and Williamsburg. The U.S. Department of Education’s civil rights office has not yet announced an investigation into these complaints, and no official statement from the administration has addressed the specific case of yeshiva funding cuts.

In January, the Times of Israel reported that four yeshivot in Brooklyn, Bobover Yeshiva Bnei Zion, Oholei Torah, United Talmudical Academy, and Yeshiva & Mesivta Arugas Habosem,filed a complaint with the US Department of Education alleging “targeted and discriminatory treatment,” by New York State. “Only the federal government can ensure that the yeshivas can pursue their missions free from interference,” the yeshivot stated. The yeshivot believed their Jewish studies curriculum were not accepted by New York authorities, and in doing so violated federal Title VI civil protection, that gave parents the right to choose their child’s education.

Dov Hikind Weighs In

Meanwhile, Dov Hikind, former New York State assemblyman, took a nuanced approach to state expectations and how the yeshivot could handle future similar issues.

He said he “knows all of the players, the yeshivas of Brooklyn, the main leaders” as he was a Brooklyn-based New York State assemblyman from 1983 to 2018.

“I think while things have improved over the years, we still have a way to go,” he said. He believes there is, however, common ground to be found.

“I think everything in the world should be done to work things out in a reasonable way where funds are not withheld, and there are some serious improvements in certain areas, period,” Hikind told Community Magazine.

Hikind attributes the slow pace of change in part to educators growing accustomed to the status quo.

Common ground is “actually the answer” he said. “I don’t think the state is so dug in… I think there needs to be movement on both sides.”

Hikind concedes that there may be a possibility that there are bad actors in the political system that have a chip on their shoulder, and have ideological reasons for opposing the yeshivot.

“Are there are people in the state who have motivations that are not kosher that want to sort of stick it to some of these schools? I wouldn’t be shocked by that, but I would say that overall, I think the goal is that there are rules, and those are good things.”

He has only warm words for the Jewish religious institutions, moreover, that he said are doing well in developing young minds.

“I love all these yeshivas. They’re great… [the students are] getting educated in very many ways,” said Hikind.