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Emotional Wellness – The Best Way Out 

One who suffers from LFT, low frustration tolerance, has difficulty tolerating unpleasant feelings or stressful situations. The term LFT was coined by psychologist Dr. Albert Ellis.  

Learning to Tolerate Discomfort and Waiting 

Of course, we all want to avoid stressful or uncomfortable situations. In fact, psychologist and author Dr. Sarah Edelman theorizes that trying to avoid discomfort is the primary cause of procrastination, as we may push off filling a cavity, ending a toxic relationship, improving an unhealthy lifestyle, or moving on from a dissatisfying job.  

But, as Robert Frost said, the best way out is always through. This means that in order to get to the other side, we must endure the dentist’s drill, the wrath of the individual from whom we are separating, a diet with fewer carbs and more fiber, or being left jobless until we land a more fulfilling position.  

Different types of people, of various ages, may exhibit LFT at different times. For people who suffer from attention deficit disorder, waiting for one’s turn patiently can be quite challenging. With training and modification of their current mindset, though, they can learn to tolerate waiting in line or turn-taking in conversation or when playing a game. They can also learn to tolerate boredom, to realize that it’s okay to be bored.  

The Gift of the Present 

With just a bit more insight and reframing, adults and children alike have the capacity to alter their current experience from feeling bored to feeling “present.” Boredom is brought on by a lack of stimulation. Being present with ourselves, being mindful of our thoughts and feelings, is anything but boring. Our curiosity about who we are, without external stimulation, can lead to exploring thoughts about growth and about the inner workings of our minds, which can help us appreciate our infinite potential.   

According to Dr. Ellis, LFT is one of the main aspects of emotional unhealthiness, because we tend to seek instant gratification in order to avoid discomfort.  

It is human nature to avoid pain and seek pleasure without delay. Animals, who have little emotional capacity and are not rational beings, live only in the moment and act instinctually. However, Gd created human beings with the ability to see the future consequences of our actions.   

 

Include Sidebar: TAKEAWAY 

Although we may prefer to spend our entire day lounging on the couch with an iced coffee and a novel, we are able to overcome the present dilemma (whether to get up or to stay put) by realizing that we can sacrifice fleeting pleasure for lasting satisfaction. 

 

Even if you are not in the mood to go to work or to be productive at home, as you begin your day keep this idea in mind – that if we ditch the fleeting pleasure (the novel and iced coffee) we can achieve lasting satisfaction. 

Forge Your Own Path to Success

Managing Partner David Hoory shares how he turned his entrepreneurial dreams into a career helping others achieve financial security 

At 12, igniting my entrepreneurial spark with a small trading card booth unknowingly shaped my future, fueled my passion for business, and led me to become a life insurance agent. It’s been 19 years since I made that decision to pursue a career in financial services, and it’s led to a whirlwind journey of growth, challenges, and triumphs. Today, as Managing Partner of the New York Life Brooklyn General Office, I stand as a testament to the power of daring to bet on myself and New York Life. The Brooklyn General Office is made up of an award-winning team and proud to have some of the highest producing agents per capita across the company.  

But success isn’t just measured by these achievements—it’s about the impact we make on the lives of others. One of the most rewarding aspects of my position is seeing the impact a New York Life career can have on someone and their family. The career offers opportunities for both professional and personal growth. I get a great sense of fulfillment from my involvement with Sephardic Bikur Holim (SBH), assisting with the food pantry and offering career coaching.   

 

Working at the Brooklyn General Office gives you the opportunity to serve our local Jewish communities in Monsey, Williamsburg, and Flatbush. This spirit of unity and community extends beyond the work we do. In our office, we have a lot of mentor and mentee relationships, which helps us build unwavering support, collaboration, and shared motivation among the team.   

I also take pride in the inclusive and accommodating nature of this vibrant workplace. We provide kosher meals at meetings, and there are nearby prayer services for our Jewish agents. Here, you don’t have to compromise your values or sacrifice what’s dear to you. While we proudly boast a large Jewish population in our office, it’s a melting pot of individuals from all walks of life. The rich diversity of backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives is what strengthens our team.  

What’s most important to us is that we give you the opportunity to pursue your passions and chart your own path to success. You can choose to be an agent, reveling in the autonomy to create your own schedule after completing all required trainings, while unlocking a world of significant income potential. Or you can progress into a managerial position, recruit and develop your own team of agents after you have met specified sales production, licensing and other internal requirements. The choice is yours, and the possibilities are endless.  

If you’re an aspiring entrepreneur or interested in making a positive impact in your community, I’m here to tell you that you can build your own practice, make a difference, and achieve personal and professional success.  

Through the comprehensive training and development programs, ongoing support from the company, and your unwavering commitment, you can cultivate a rewarding career centered around protecting what matters most to individuals and families in our community. If you would like to learn more about what a career as a financial professional (agent) can offer you, then let’s talk. 

David Hoory, CLF®, LUTCF® 

Managing Partner, New York Life Insurance Company 

dhoory@newyorklife.com 

718-307-3400 

New York Life is an Equal Opportunity Employer
SMRU 5816907 Exp. 07.31.2025

The Lighter Side – November 2023

Trouble

Doctor: What seems to be the trouble?
Patient: Doctor, I keep getting the feeling that nobody can hear what I say.
Doctor: What seems to be the trouble?

S. Schweky

Confused with Candy

When Michael opened up his birthday gift bag, he took out the cowboys and Indians set and ate one of the little plastic horses. His parents, afraid of the damage it would do to his stomach, rushed him to the hospital where his condition was diagnosed as “Stable.”

Yamir Safdieh

Difference of Opinion

A patient complained to his doctor, “I’ve been to three other doctors and none of them agreed with your diagnosis.”

The doctor calmly replied, “Just wait until the surgery, then they’ll see that I’m right.”

Nathan H.

Pass the Test

A college physics professor was grading a particularly difficult test he had just given to his class when a pre-med student approached him.

“Why do we have to learn this stuff?” the young man blurted out.

“To save lives,” the professor responded before continuing to grade the tests.

A few minutes later the student spoke up again. “So how does physics save lives?”

The professor stared at the student for a long time without saying a word. Finally, he spoke up. “Physics saves lives because it keeps the people who aren’t serious out of medical school.”

Ralph Esses

All in the Family

Outraged by the high fees his specialist charged to treat his arthritis, a friend asked my dad which doctors he used.
“My sons,” he said. “They’re both doctors.”
“So, you get that kind of work done for nothing?” the friend marveled.
Dad smiled. “Actually, I figure it cost me about $750,000 for my kids to treat my knees for free.”

Eddie C.

A Doctor’s Duty

While doing her rounds, a new nurse couldn’t help overhearing the surgeon yelling, “Typhoid! Tetanus! Measles!”
“Why does he keep doing that?” she asked a colleague.
“Oh, he likes to call the shots around here.”

A. C.

Say What?

An elderly man visited a doctor for his check-up. As he was leaving, he asked the doctor if he could recommend a specialist for his wife.

“What’s wrong with her?” asked the doctor.

The old man explained that her hearing was getting so bad that it was almost embarrassing. The doctor said he knew of several specialists that could help, but he wanted the old man to do a little test when he got home to help determine the severity of her hearing loss.

“When you get home,” he said, “make sure your wife’s back is turned to you and ask her a question. If she doesn’t respond, walk closer and ask her again. Keep doing this until she answers and let me know the results.”

That night, when the old man opened the door of his home, he saw his wife in the kitchen preparing dinner. She was at the counter with her back to the door.

“What’s for dinner?” the old man asked.

His wife did not respond, so he walked to the doorway of the kitchen and asked the question again. Still, he was greeted with silence. He walked up just behind her and asked once again, “What’s for dinner?”

His wife spun around and, a bit agitated, shouted, “For the third time, baked chicken!”

S. Sutton

State of the Art

A man was telling his neighbor, “I just bought a new hearing aid. It cost me four thousand dollars, but it is state of the art. It’s perfect.”
“Really,” answered the neighbor. “What kind is it?”
“Twelve thirty.”

F. E.

Worried Mom

Mother: I need to speak to the doctor! It’s an emergency! My infant has a temperature of 101.
Doctor to Secretary: Find out how she’s taking the temperature.
Secretary: How are you taking it?
Mother: Oh, I’m doing okay.

Rachel B.

Sticking to the Rules

Hospital regulations require a wheelchair for patients being discharged. A young student nurse found an elderly gentleman already dressed and sitting on the bed with a suitcase at his feet. He insisted that he did not need her help to leave the hospital, but after a chat about the hospital’s rules that must be obeyed, he reluctantly let the nurse wheel him to the elevator. On the way down, the nurse asked if his wife would be meeting him.

“I don’t know,” he replied. “She is still upstairs getting changed from the hospital gown…”

Jack V. Grazi

Beach Concerned

A man drove to the beach and parked his car close to the water’s edge, not realizing it was low tide. He then went for a long hike up into the mountains. During his excursion, high tide came and then receded, completely submersing his car for a period of time in the process.

When he finally returned to his car, he was very concerned when he discovered that he had tuna in his Mercury!

Sarah Dweck

Old Age

An old man went to the doctor complaining of a terrible pain in his leg.
“I am afraid it’s just old age,” the doctor said.
“There is nothing we can do about it.”
“That can’t be,” the old man fumed. “You must be mistaken.”
“How can you possibly know I am wrong?” countered the doctor.
The old man replied, “Well it’s quite obvious – my other leg is fine, and it’s exactly the same age!”

F. Mizrahi

Waiting Room

The doctor’s office was crowded as usual, but the doctor was moving at a snail’s pace. After waiting two hours, an old man slowly stood up and started walking toward the door.
“Where are you going?” the receptionist called out.
“Well,” he said, “I figured I’d go and wait it out in the comfort of my own home.”

S. D.

Doctor Knows Best

Doctor: Mrs. Finkelstein, you’ll live to be 60 years old.
Mrs. Finkelstein: I am already 60!
Doctor: See, what did I tell you?

J. G.

Types of Mortgages

Most of the time, when people purchase homes they apply for a mortgage.  There are many things to consider to be ready for putting in that application.  One of these things is choosing which type of mortgage is best for you. 

 

Aryeh Brecher, Senior Loan Officer at FML Loans, explains here the two main types of mortgages. 

 

Fixed-Rate Mortgage:  Stability and Predictability 

 

A fixed-rate mortgage is a popular choice among homebuyers seeking stability and predictability in their monthly payments.  With a fixed-rate mortgage, the interest rate remains constant throughout the life of the loan, typically spanning 30 years. This means that regardless of fluctuations in the broader interest rate market, the homeowner’s monthly mortgage payments will remain unchanged. 

 

Fixed-rate mortgages are known for providing long-term financial stability and are a suitable option for buyers who plan to stay in their homes for an extended period. 

 

Pros: 

  • Predictable monthly payments. 
  • Protection against interest rate increases. 
  • Ideal for long-term homeownership. 

 

Cons: 

  • Initial interest rates may be slightly higher compared to initial rates of ARMs. 
  • Less flexible in terms of adjusting to potential decreases in interest rates. 

 

Adjustable-Rate Mortgage (ARM):  Flexibility and Risk 

 

An adjustable-rate mortgage (ARM) offers a different structure compared to a fixed-rate mortgage.  In an ARM, the interest rate is fixed for an initial period, typically ranging from three to ten years.  After the initial period, the interest rate adjusts periodically, usually annually, based on a specific index and margin.  This means that the homeowner’s monthly payments can fluctuate, potentially resulting in lower payments during periods of low interest rates but can result in higher payments when rates increase. 

 

Pros: 

  • Lower initial interest rates, which can lead to lower initial monthly payments. 
  • Potential for lower overall interest payments if rates remain stable or decrease. 
  • Suited for short-term homeownership or those who anticipate financial changes in the near future. 

 

Cons: 

  • Uncertainty in future monthly payments due to potential interest rate fluctuations. 
  • Risk of higher payments if interest rates rise significantly. 
  • Can be challenging to budget for fluctuating payments. 

 

It’s not a secret that the rates have risen over the past little while.  As of the writing of this article, the rates are hovering at 7.25 percent, yet at the same time the buyers are definitely out there giving offers. 

 

There are many homes that we have in the market and almost every home has some offer on it.  I’m not saying that it’s an offer the sellers want to take right away, but there are definitely offers that are coming in and buyers are out there looking and opting for the ARM in order to combat the high interest rates.  They are looking into ARMs as a short-term solution because the time is right for them to buy a house. 

 

Obviously, I’m not here to give any specific advice.  You have to discuss with your financial planner and mortgage broker which type of mortgage works best for you and your family, but this is something that people have been looking into and it has been working out for many. 

Historical 30-Year Fixed-Mortgage Rates 

 

As of this writing, the current mortgage rates are 7.54 percent for a 30-year fixed mortgage and 6.89 percent for a 15-year mortgage. 

 

Below is a diagram from ValuePenguin showing the rates from 1971-2022, a span of 51 years. 

One Woman’s Graceful Bravery Offers Solace to a Grieving Nation

David and Rachel Edry were saved by a police force that included their two sons 

 

On Saturday, October 7th, Simchat Torah in Israel, five armed Hamas gunmen invaded David and Rachel Edry’s home in the southern town of Ofakim, as part of the large-scale surprise attacks. 

David Edry told Israel’s Channel 12 News that the gunmen forced the couple upstairs and threatened to kill them. The couple were held captive at gunpoint and under threat of an unpinned grenade. 

“I said to my husband, if we will die, we will die together,” Rachel Edry said.  

Buying Time 

Rachel said she tried to buy some time in the hope that her two sons, both police officers, would help Israel’s YAMAM counterterrorism force rescue them. 

“I hosted them as best I could. I joked around with them. I saw they were mad, and I asked them if they were hungry,” she said. “I made them coffee and gave them cookies. They started singing [Israeli singer] Lior Narkis songs to me. I distracted them. I did it all to stay alive.  I knew my sons were helping the YAMAM and that they would come rescue me.” 

Fifteen Hours In – A Miracle 

Israeli special forces killed the Hamas militants and freed David and Rachel Edry after they had been held for 15 hours. 

“At 2:30am, a grenade landed next to us, and I jumped on top of my wife,” David said. “Bullets flew over our heads. I have no idea how we survived.” 

Neighbors flocked to the house following the ordeal, finding two Israeli police officers in control of the situation. All five terrorists had been killed. 

 

The Edrys escaped mostly unharmed, with Rachel suffering only a minor wound from a special rescue dog who accidentally scratched her. 

“It was a miracle, and it’s uplifting because it shows Gd is watching over us and that with His help we have the wits and humanity to best our enemies’ bestial brutality even when our backs are against the wall,” said Daniel Mualem, the 33-year-old neighbor of the Edrys. 

 

“Instead of killing us, the terrorists ran to various locations and hid until they were shot at,” Rachel said. “I want to thank the police. They are our heroes.” 

One of the members of the rescue team responded to Rachel’s gratitude by saying, “No Rachel, we’re not the heroes… You’re the hero!” 

Dear Jido – November 2023

Dear Jido,  

 

My husband and I have struggled to make enough income to cover our monthly expenses and are watching our limited savings deplete steadily.  

 

My husband’s parents both own their own companies and are extremely wealthy. They are also very charitable and donate large sums of monies to various community organizations.  

 

I try to tell myself that it’s everyone’s right to choose how to spend their own money, but I can’t help but feel increasingly resentful that they don’t offer us financial support, when they’d be able to do so without any negative impact on their own standard of living.  

 

I want to continue having a good relationship with them, but I’m struggling. Can you help me figure out how to let go of my resentment?  

 

 

Signed,
Distraught

Dear Distraught, 

 

Your question seems to indicate that you have accepted that the situation is not going to change. In that case, you gave the answer in your own statement – keep telling yourself,  “Everyone has the right to choose how to spend their own money.”

But you must be careful because resentment can eventually lead to deeper feelings of animosity and that would be a terrible thing. Even if you never act out your feelings, Hashem warns, “Don’t hate your fellow Jew in your heart.”

Therefore, although the simple answer is just to get over it, due to family dynamics, it might be best to do something about it before it goes too far.

First, of course, you need to understand why they have not offered their resources to their son. Perhaps they don’t realize your need, or they may not be happy with the type of vocation he has chosen to support his family and are purposely withholding funds. Or they might even see it as a temporary situation that will serve to encourage their son to work hard and get ahead. 

So, maybe start a simple conversation one day when Dad or Mom come over to visit. You can say something like this: “Dad/Mom, I don’t know if you’re aware, but Joe and I have been working so hard to make ends meet and it just doesn’t seem to be working. Do you have any suggestions of where we can turn to ease our burden?”

Be prepared for the worst. They may say things you never really wanted to hear. At least then you’ll be able to understand their position and know better how to work through your emotions.

Or, maybe the best-case scenario will unfold, and finally you’ll be able to support your family the way you’ve always dreamed.[Text Wrapping Break] 

 

Good luck, 

Jido

SY Opportunities – The Latest Wave in Hesed Is Taking the Community by Storm

$36 down – $369 to go!  

$250 down – $119 to go! 

$101 down – $18 to go! 

$18 down - OPPORTUNITY CLOSED! 

$6,200 in a little over 45 minutes…  

AMAZING!! 

 

 

If you thought this sounds like an excerpt from an exciting auction of some sort, you’d be absolutely correct. 

 

But, instead of artwork or jewelry, the grand prize is far more precious – the golden opportunity to help a struggling community member in need and to earn a priceless mitzvah.  

 

In fact, once a week each case, carefully vetted and approved by Rabbi David Ozeri, is called exactly that – SY Opportunities. 

 

SY Opportunities is lovingly dedicated in memory of Ralph Tawil, a”h, a man who was selflessly dedicated to the community, whose sterling middot made him a true role model for all that were privileged to know him.  

 

The members describe the group best: 

 

“It’s a simple yet innovative ‘strength in numbers’ idea. Anonymously being able, at a click of a button, to donate any amount no matter how small or large, or even none at all, and watch the exciting countdown to success IN REAL TIME, to witness and be a part of this race to hesed is a truly exhilarating experience!” - Sharon C. 

 

“I don’t even know how I stumbled on it! Someone randomly added me to the chat. But I couldn’t believe what I was watching once I started…and even giving a little each time makes you feel like such a part of it. And it’s so nice how the little contributions are valued just as much as the larger ones.” – Kelly M. 

 

“I can’t believe this beautiful chat…I have tears in my eyes.” – Linda D. 

 

“I have been so astounded so far by this group and I think the method you’re using of acknowledging every contribution and counting down the funds needed is so effective. It’s so incredible and amazing to watch the number shrink, usually in no time at all!” – Abie S. 

“Being a participant of this unique chat is truly invigorating. At first, you genuinely sympathize with the community member in need, you then see the outpouring support from the rest of the participants and realize you have an actual chance to help, no matter how much you give…it’s the most incredible feeling! I feel so blessed to be part of our wonderful community!” – Daniel S.       

 

 

Don’t Miss YOUR Golden Opportunity 

To be a part of this fast-growing movement, grab your own golden opportunity and text, “I’m in” to 2123981002 or scan the QR code and join this incredible group!

Once Upon a Thyme – Chicken Ramen

Once you’ve tried this homemade ramen, you won’t want to eat those store-bought cups of noodle soup again. Leftover chicken soup can work well in this recipe by eliminating the extra step of making chicken broth and chicken. This ramen is protein packed with soft boiled eggs and juicy chicken, while the tender noodles, savory portobello mushrooms, and umami flavors come together to create a satisfying, hearty, and delicious meal.  

 

Salt and pepper to taste 

2 lbs. skinless chicken breast on bone  

1 whole onion 

2 + 1 whole carrots  

4 sticks celery  

Two portobello mushrooms caps, sliced 

1-inch ginger, minced 

4 cloves minced garlic 

1 cup Soy sauce 

1 tsp Sesame oil  

Black and white sesame seeds 

8 soft boiled eggs 

4 packs ramen noodles 

1 bunch Scallions, green and light green parts 

 

  1. Broth: In a large stock pot, add skinless chicken breasts, peeled onion, celery, and two whole carrots Add salt, and  fill the pot with water to top. Add salt and pepper to taste and then bring to a boil and then reduce to a simmer. Cover and let cook for 2-3 hours.
  2. Remove onion, celery, and carrot from broth and discard or enjoy separately. 
  3. Remove chicken from broth and remove chicken from the bone. Shred and set aside. Discard bone and bone fragments.  
  4. In a sauté pan, add sesame oil over medium heat. Add in the garlic and ginger and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant. Remove half of the garlic ginger mixture and place into the pot of broth. Add soy sauce to broth and keep in a low simmer.  
  5. In the same skillet, add the sliced mushrooms to the remaining garlic-ginger mixture and sauté for 3-5 minutes or until softened. Remove mushrooms and set aside.  
  6. Use a julienne peeler to slice the remaining (raw) carrot into shreds. Set aside.  
  7. Place the ramen noodles in the hot pot of broth. Allow the noodles to sit for a couple of minutes until they loosen and soften up. The noodles will soften quickly, so this should be done right before serving.  
  8. Divide the ramen, chicken, mushrooms, carrot shreds, soft boiled eggs, and broth evenly into bowls.
  9. Top the ramen with scallions and sesame seeds. Enjoy!

One Team One Dream Triumphs in Historic 2023 M&S World Series

Sam Sutton

In the annals of sports history, there are moments that stand out as truly legendary, and the 2023 M&S World Series was one such occasion. It was a series that etched its name in the record books, captivating fans worldwide with its thrilling twists and historic performances. The showdown between the number one-seeded “One Team One Dream,” led by the indomitable Steven J. Gindi, and the number two-seeded “Diamond Busters,” captained by the quiet yet determined Gabe Abadi, was a classic for the ages. 

Game One: A Slugfest to Remember

Game One of the series was a slugfest that set the tone for the drama that would unfold. The Diamond Busters roared out of the gate, building a commanding 10-2 lead. The driving force behind this early dominance was none other than Aharon “Hank” Dwek, one of the community’s most prolific sluggers. Hank etched his name into history when he took a pitch on the outer half of the plate and launched it over the right-center field wall for the first home run over the fence in World Series history.

However, the game was far from over. In the fifth inning, One Team One Dream mounted a ferocious comeback, pulling the score to within three runs at 10-7, which ultimately became the final score in game one. The resilience and determination displayed by both teams in this high-scoring affair left fans eagerly anticipating the next chapter of this epic series.

Game Two: The Perfect Performance

Game Two of the series would go down as one of the most extraordinary moments in community softball history. Down 0-1 in the series, with their backs against the wall, One Team One Dream turned to their 16-year-old starting pitcher, Yitzchak Sutton. What transpired on that fateful night was nothing short of magic – a perfect game that left spectators in awe.

Yitzchak Sutton, with the weight of the series on his young shoulders, displayed nerves of steel and an incredible pitching performance. The Diamond Busters, despite their best efforts, couldn’t muster a single baserunner against Sutton. The final score of 1-0 in favor of One Team One Dream reflected the sheer dominance of the young pitcher, while Edmund Beyda of the Diamond Busters matched him pitch for pitch, making it an unforgettable contest.

Game Three: The Decisive Showdown

Game Three, the decisive match in this historic series, lived up to its billing and then some. The tension in the air was palpable, and the fans were on the edge of their seats throughout. The game remained scoreless into the fourth inning, but the Diamond Busters finally broke through with a 2-0 lead thanks to a sacrifice fly by Teddy Ishak and an RBI from Nathan Kushner.

As the sixth inning approached, One Team One Dream found themselves down to their final six outs. It was then that they mounted another comeback, tying the game at 2-2 with a clutch 2-RBI base hit by Joe Sefaradi. The match was a rollercoaster of emotions, with each team having its share of opportunities, but both squads showcased slick defense to thwart any potential runs.

In a series that had already delivered unforgettable moments, it was only fitting that it would be decided in extra innings. The stage was set for a dramatic conclusion, and the players did not disappoint. In the bottom of the ninth inning, mid-season pickup Barry Finkel, who had initially joined as an injury replacement, stepped to the plate with two runners on base. With the World Series hanging in the balance, Finkel dramatically connected with the ball, sending a line drive to right field that sealed the championship for One Team One Dream in a walk-off victory.

Yitzchak Sutton and Joe Sefaradi were named Co-World Series MVP.   

 

Include caption for photo:  

Caption: World Series MVPs Yitzchak Sutton and Joe Sefaradi holding the Championship Trophy. 

 

A Legendary World Series

The 2023 M&S World Series will be forever remembered as one of the greatest in the league’s 16-year history. It had it all – powerful hitting, flawless pitching, heart-stopping comebacks, and breathtaking defensive plays. The clash between the Diamond Busters and One Team One Dream was an unforgettable spectacle that showcased the very essence of softball: teamwork, determination, and the pursuit of greatness.

As we look back on this historic World Series, we are reminded of the power of sports to unite communities and inspire generations. It was a testament to the dedication and passion of the players who left it all on the field, the unwavering support of the fans who cheered them on, and the indomitable spirit of competition that defines the sport.

The league would like to thank its sponsor, Sarah’s Tent for making it all possible.  

For those who want to relive these memorable moments, the league’s YouTube channel (https://youtube.com/@samjsutton) offers a chance to immerse yourself in the drama and excitement of the 2023 M&S World Series.  

 

As we head into the offseason, one thing is certain: the legacy of this epic showdown will continue to inspire softball fans and players alike for years to come. It was a series where dreams were realized, legends were born, and the spirit of competition burned brighter than ever.

Unwanted Chairs Bring Joy to New Synagogue

Pnina Souid 

 

Opening a new shul requires a lot of work, and at least some basic necessities. Chairs are one of the basics. Recently a new shul was getting underway and one of the founders called the Mitzvah Man. He explained that the new shul-to-be did not have the funds to buy chairs. The shul could not open its doors unless they had chairs for the 200 congregants. The caller said that even used chairs would be just fine. 

The Mitzvah Man thought hard. He did not know of any chairs available or anyone who could supply them. Regretfully, he answered that it didn’t look like he would be able to help. 

Two Days Later 

A call came in from a man the Mitzvah Man did not know. 

“Is this the Mitzvah Man?” he asked. “I heard that you help people. Gd Bless you! We opened a new shul in Passaic, NJ, and ordered 250 nice chairs. However, the chairs delivered were not the right ones. The donor of the chairs is a wealthy man. He told us not to bother returning the chairs, but to donate them to a shul that could use them. He will order new chairs for our shul.” 

The Mitzvah Man was astonished. He knew just where to send those new chairs! He told the caller about the conversation he had just two days prior. He thanked the caller profusely and offered a prayer of thanks to Hashem, the real Provider. 

Once again, the Mitzvah Man saw the strong Hand of Hashem’s Providence at work. 

He immediately contacted the first caller. He said, “You won’t believe this, but I have 250 new shul chairs for you! They are not from me. They are truly a gift from Hashem! I had nothing to do with this!” 

Now it was the caller’s turn to offer Hashem a prayer of thanks for arranging for the new chairs for his shul. 

Hashem sends us presents daily; health, parnassa, food, and even brand-new shul chairs!