Mix 2 tablespoons of sugar, dry yeast, and the lukewarm milk together in mixing bowl. Let sit to make sure it bubbles.
Sift the flour and mix it with 2 tablespoons of sugar, salt, cinnamon, 2 egg yolks, and the yeast mixture (from Step 1).
Knead the dough until it forms a ball. Add butter. Knead some more, until the butter is fully absorbed.
Cover with a towel. Let rise overnight in refrigerator.
Use rolling pin to roll out the dough to a thickness of ⅛ inch.
Cut the dough into 24 rounds with a juice glass (or a 2-inch cookie cutter).
Place ½ teaspoon of strawberry jam onto the center of a round. Cover it with a second round. Repeat with remaining rounds. You will have 12 filled doughnuts. Press the edges together and allow to rise again in a warm place for about 30 minutes.
**Ask an adult to help you with this part of the recipe. ** In the deep fryer, heat 2 inches of oil to about 375 degrees Fahrenheit. Carefully slip the doughnuts into the hot oil, about 4 at a time. Fry for a few minutes until brown on one side. Turn to brown on the other side. Use tongs to remove doughnuts from oil. Place on paper towels to absorb any extra oil.
Dust with powdered sugar when cool.
Makes 12 Doughnuts!
Buzz the Brachos Bee
When dough is cooked in liquid, the custom is to say the berachah of mezonot rather than hamotzi. That is why we recite mezonot on doughnuts that are deep fried in oil.
Chef Shiri Says…
Yeast has to be fresh to bake good doughnuts. You can test the yeast by mixing it with water, and a little sugar. Then wait 5 minutes to see if the yeast begins making bubbles. If few or no bubbles show, it is old yeast and should not be used.
Grand Opening of Dome Home Care DME Retail Store: A New Era in Home Healthcare
By Pnina Souid
David Chait and Dov Berkowitz are thrilled to announce the grand opening of Dome Home Care DME Retail Store, a new destination for durable medical equipment (DME) in our community.
Dome Home Care Retail Store is dedicated to providing high-quality medical equipment and supplies to enhance the quality of life for individuals with varying healthcare needs. The product range includes mobility aids, respiratory equipment, enteral feeding (tube feeding, for patients who cannot chew or swallow) aids, and much more. All designed to support patients and caregivers in their journey toward better health.
For over 20 years they serviced the community specifically for respiratory care and care for Ventilator and Trach dependent patients. In addition, they have serviced patients requiring nebulization, oxygen, BiPAP, and CPAP for diagnosing sleep apnea.
They also carry a full line of traditional durable medical equipment including hospital beds, specialty mattresses, wheelchairs, cushions, walkers, rollators, canes, and crutches, as well as bathroom aids and safety.
At Dome Home Care, they understand that navigating the world of medical equipment can be challenging and overwhelming. Their experienced and knowledgeable staff is committed to guiding customers through the selection process to ensure they find the right products that meet their unique needs.
For more information, please contact the Dome Home Care DME retail store at 718-854-5500.
Flatbush Shomrim and NYPD and Arrest Two Suspects for Vehicle Break-Ins, Theft, and Identity Fraud
Thanks to the swift actions of Flatbush Shomrim and officers from the NYPD’s 63rd Precinct, two suspects were apprehended at Avenue R and East 31st Street last month. The arrests followed a spree of vehicle break-ins, scooter thefts, and identity theft, including the grand larceny of a $1,200 wallet.
The incident began when Flatbush Shomrim received a report of two individuals matching the suspects’ descriptions on scooters near Quentin Road and Burnett Street in Marine Park. Witnesses described the suspects going from car to car, breaking into multiple vehicles. Shomrim volunteers responded and managed to track the suspects, eventually spotting them at Avenue P and East 31st Street. The suspects had reportedly stolen a scooter and continued to break into vehicles along the way.
Upon confrontation, one of the suspects attempted to flee but was quickly apprehended with the assistance of both Shomrim and NYPD officers. During the arrest, an NYPD sergeant sustained an injury while taking down one of the suspects. Flatbush Hatzalah provided immediate on-site medical assistance to the injured officer.
Further investigation revealed that the suspects were in possession of stolen items, including a wallet with credit cards, a driver’s license, and other forms of identification taken from one of the vehicles, leading to additional charges for identity theft. The suspects were taken to the 63rd Precinct for processing.
Flatbush Shomrim reminds residents to always lock their vehicles and secure their belongings, including valuable items like bikes and scooters, to deter theft and ensure community safety.
Magen David Yeshivah Offers College Guidance
MDY’s Class of ’25 had a special college visit last month from Yeshiva University. In attendance were Mrs. Elaine Frankel, YU’s esteemed Assistant Director of Admissions, and Dean Noam Wasserman, the distinguished Dean of the Sy Syms School of Business at YU. They lead an informative and interactive session with the seniors. MDY students were introduced to the educational schools at YU, including Yeshiva College, Stern College for Women, Sy Syms School of Business, and The Mordecai and Monique Katz Associate Degree Programs. Additionally, students learned about the S. Daniel Abraham Israel Program, where students are enrolled at YU while learning in Israel.
We are supposed to feel that we are not entitled to anything in this world; everything we have is a totally undeserved gift given to us by Hashem.
One may ask, “If a father brings a child into the world, isn’t he obligated to provide the basic necessities for that child; food, clothing, a place to live? Shouldn’t Hashem be obligated to give us, all of His children, our needs as well, needs that include a home, a job, a spouse, and children? Why don’t we deserve to have all of our needs taken care of?”
Rabbi Lugassi explains that there is a very big difference between these two scenarios. When a father brings a child into this world, he wants the child to be as comfortable as possible in this world and therefore he feels obligated to do what he can to ensure that. Hashem, however, created us for a much more profound purpose. This World is just a stepping-stone to the real world, to eternal life.
Man is given a brief, finite length of time here – 70 or 80 years, we hope 120 – to do a task and accomplish what he needs to accomplish. Each person’s task is different. Hashem provides each individual with his or her exact needs to fulfill his or her purpose. For some, it is getting married young. For others, it is getting married at an older age. For some, it is having children. For others, it is not having children.
A person might ask, “Why do I have it so hard? Why do I not have more money? Why do I have so many health problems? Why is Hashem withholding so much good from me?” These would all be valid questions since our purpose was for achievement for This World. Yet, who knows better than Hashem what we really need to be successful and happy for eternity?
Each person’s life is planned out carefully, beginning with which family one is born into and the types of parents one has. Some parents spoil their children, others hold back from their children. People say, “It’s not fair, I have the meanest parents!” It is fair, it was planned like that. That is exactly what your soul needs. A person’s siblings are also Heaven-ordained. The people around him, his friends, his neighbors, are all part of Hashem’s plan for him.
Some people are not happy with the way they look. There are no accidents. Hashem made every feature of every person’s body exactly the way it needs to be. The color of a person’s eyes, one’s complexion, one’s height, the shape of one’s nose, the size of one’s ears – all were calculated.
People who have shalom bayit problems often argue about petty issues: “Why can’t our house be more orderly?” “Why is she spending so much money?” Why can’t he be neater?” Why is he so tight with money?” The root of their problems is not really the petty issues. If one would believe in perfect faith that Hashem arranged one’s marriage and gave one the spouse he needs to fulfill one’s mission in This World, one would overlook more: “S/he is the other half of my soul, and we need each other to accomplish our goal in This World. Obstacles are just tools for growth. We will work it out, we will get through it.”
The more we can trust that Hashem knows what we need better than we do, and that He provides us with the exact lives we need to do our jobs properly, the better our performance will become and the happier our lives will be.
Little Yitzi was walking home from school in Jerusalem when he came across a police officer who had a dog in the back of his van – a K-9 unit.
“Is that a dog back there?” Yitzi asked the police officer.
“It sure is,” the police officer replied. Puzzled, Yitzi looked at the officer and then towards the back of the van.
Finally Yitzi asked, “What did it do?”
Alan B.
It’s All in the Delivery
A guy walks into a resort in the Catskills for the first time – one of those famous Borscht Belt places. Some of the old-time comics are sitting around telling jokes. One of them says, “Seventeen,” and the other old timers all roar with laughter. A little later, another guy says, “Thirty-two,” and again, they all laugh and holler.
Well, the new guy can’t figure out what’s going on, so he asks one of the locals next to him, “What’re these old-timers doing?” The local says, “Well, they’ve been hanging around together so long they all know all the same jokes, so to save extra talking they’ve given all the jokes numbers.”
The new fellow says, “That’s clever! I think I’ll try that.”
So, he stands up and says in a loud voice, “Nineteen!”
There was complete silence.
Everybody just looks at him, but nobody laughs. Embarrassed, he sits down again, and asks the local fellow, “What happened? Why didn’t anyone laugh?” The local says, “Well, son, you just didn’t tell it right.”
Victor G.
Slap Shot
Eighty-five-year-old Selma Feinstein went on a blind date with 90-year-old Morris Sapirman. When Selma returned to her daughter’s house later that night, she seemed upset.
“What happened, Ma?” Selma’s daughter asked.
“I had to slap Morris’s face three times!”
“Oh my goodness! Was he that rude?”
“No,” Selma answered, “I thought he was dead.”
Victoria P.
Say What?
Mr. Goldman was sitting with his granddaughter Rachel on his lap, telling her a story, when his hearing aid started to beep.
Surprised, little Rachel looked up at him and said, “Oh, Zadie, you just got an e-mail!”
Sonny C.
The Main Principal
The principal at Kind David High School, Rabbi Epstein was speaking to his vocal parent body at a meeting that they had requested. Rabbi Epstein assured them that he was always happy to hear from them about any problems they may have. He told them, “You can call me day or night, at this number…”
Suddenly there was a cry from the Assistant Principal. “Hey,” he exclaimed, “that’s MY number!”
Elissa M.
Leftovers
Jacob and John are walking to work one day and Jacob is describing his new gadget that he received as a present. “Where did you get that?” John asked. “I got it last night for Hanukah,” said Jacob.
“What’s Hanukah?” John asked.
“It’s a Jewish holiday where we get presents every night for eight nights while we celebrate the festival of lights.”
“Wow, I wish we got that!” John exclaimed.
The next day at the office, John runs up to Jacob, curious to see what he got. He sees that Jacob is disappointed. “What’s wrong? Where’s your present from last night?” asks John.
Jacob holds up a ball of crumpled wrapping paper and replies, “It was leftovers night!”
Moe L.
Smile!
Four-year-old Mikey came screaming out of the bathroom to tell his father that he dropped his toothbrush in the toilet. So, Mikey’s father fished it out and threw it in the garbage. Mikey stood there thinking for a moment, then ran to his father’s bathroom and came out with his toothbrush.
Mikey held it up and said with a charming little smile, “Abba, we better throw this one out too then, because it fell in the toilet a few days ago.”
Marlene H.
Hanukah Punnies
Q: Which hand is best to light the menorah with?
A: Neither, it’s best to light it with a candle!
Q: Why did the dreidel go to the doctor?
A: It kept getting dizzy spells!
Q: What do you call a speck that falls into the latke pan?
A: An unidentified frying object!
Matchmaker in Miami
As usual, Miami Beach was packed with tourists when all of a sudden the water turned black and murky, and a hideous sea monster came out. It was standing there, drooling, dripping sea weed, looming over everyone and screaming.
All of the people were understandably petrified, screamed, and ran away. Except for one little old Jewish lady. She got closer and closer and closer and closer to the monster, looked up at him over her glasses and exclaimed, “Oy! Have I got a girl for you!”
Frieda D.
Sick as a Dog
Little Moishie’s dog Benji was sick and the boy was afraid that his dad would come back from the vet with bad news.
As his dad stepped through the door with Benji in his carrier, Moishie rushed to find out what the vet had said.
“I’m afraid it’s not good news, son,” said his father. “The vet thinks Benji’s only got another three weeks or so to live.”
Hearing this, Moishie burst into tears.
“But Benji wouldn’t want you to be sad,” said the father, putting a comforting arm around Moishie’s shoulder. “He’d want you to remember all the good times you had together.”
Moishie rubbed his eyes. “Can we give Benji a funeral?”
“Sure we can,” said his father.
“Can I invite all my friends?”
“Of course you can.”
“And, can we have cake and ice cream?”
“Sure, you can have whatever you want.”
“Dad,” said Moishie, “can we kill Benji today?”
Morris A.
Social Engineering
Four Israeli soldiers who all happened to be different types of engineers were riding in their jeep doing a patrol. There was a mechanical engineer, a chemical engineer, an electrical engineer, and a computer engineer.
Suddenly, their jeep broke down.
The mechanical engineer said, “Sounds to me like the pistons have seized. We’ll have to strip down the engine before we can get the car working again.”
The chemical engineer begged to differ. “It sounds to me as if the fuel might be contaminated. I think we should clear out the fuel system.”
“Well, I think it might be a grounding problem,” said the electrical engineer, “or maybe a faulty plug lead.”
Having offered their opinions, the three turned to the computer engineer who was strangely silent on the matter. “What do you think?” they asked.
“Hmmm,” said the computer engineer. “Perhaps, we should all get out of the jeep and get back in again?”
Carl W.
The number 8,549,176,320 is a unique number. What is so special about it?
Last Month’s Riddle: Wrong Room
Mr. Green is sitting in his hotel room when there is a knock at the door. He opened the door to see an elderly man whom he had never seen before. The elderly man said, “Oh I’m sorry. I have made a mistake. I thought this was my room.” He then went down the corridor and in the elevator. Mr. Green went back into his room and phoned security. What made Mr. Green so suspicious of the elderly man?
Solution: You don’t knock on your own hotel room door!
Solved by: Daniel Chemtob, Eli Bareket, Mary G., Big Mike, Eli Nuseiri, Martin Sutton, The Dwek Family, and The Shmulster.
JUNIOR RIDDLE: Escape Plan
Submitted by: Jordan A.
A man is trapped in a room with only two possible exits. Through the first door is a room with an enormous magnifying glass causing the blazing hot sun to instantly burn anything that enters. Through the second door there is a fire-breathing dragon. How does the man escape?
Last Month’s Junior Riddle: The Missing Sister
There are five sisters. One is reading a book, another is cooking, another is playing chess, and another is doing laundry. What is the fifth sister doing?
Solution: She is playing chess with her sister!
Solved by: Paulette Kameo, Natlie Cohen, Barbara Batya Beyda, Eli Bareket, Fortune Azrak, Family Blum, The Shmulster, and the Big Cheese.
“Why special education? I minored in education and took an assessment that pointed me towards special education. I thrive when I help identify children’s strengths. Some children need time to grown into themselves and foster their strong points.” – Shelly Salem
Please meet Rachelle (Shelly) Shammah Salem, a compassionate, wise, and poised woman, who as a bilingual special education instructor (English and Spanish) and child therapist, and has helped many students to find their unique spark.
Shelly is particularly articulate and it is clear that she has a special enthusiasm for teaching children.
Growing Up
Shelly was born in the Bay Parkway section of Brooklyn, to Vicky and Joseph Matalon. Her father came to the America from Aleppo, Syria, as a teenager and her Sephardic mom emigrated from Haiti at age three. Joseph worked at Prudential, and was one of the first insurance brokers in the Syrian community. He loved reading the Zohar and going to synagogue.
When Shelly was six, her family moved to Ocean Parkway. One of six children, Shelly had two older brothers, Marvin and Lee, an older sister Joanie, and two younger brothers David and Jackie. Unfortunately, her brother Marvin passed away. Shelly remains close with her other siblings.
Shelly was a quiet child, and was very well-liked by her classmates.
An excellent student, she sat in the first seat of the first row of PS 215 on Avenue S. Shelly skipped a year in junior high (Boody) by achieving “SP” and graduated from Abraham Lincoln High School at sixteen.
Post High School
Shelly then attended a two-year fashion merchandising and communication program at FIT. Shelly finished the two-year degree when she was eighteen. At the time, FIT did not have a four-year college curriculum.
Shelly majored in English and had a minor in education. After college graduation, she worked as a copywriter for CBS.
Shelly’s parents were her greatest role models. “I got my spiritual side from my dad, and my love of learning from my mom.” Shelly is high-energy, exercises regularly, and loves entertaining and being with people.
Her passions define her and who she is at her core. Her fervor in supporting challenged children became her life purpose and proudest accomplishment, second to raising three fabulous children.
And Then Came Marriage…
Shelly was introduced to her first husband, Albert Shammah, a”h, at a friend’s home. Albert was an Israeli citizen and had been a paratrooper in 1956 during the Suez War. He earned a special citation from Moshe Dayan for his service.
Albert started out selling silk ties for his wealthy extended family in Milan, and before long started working in New York, opened letters of credit with China, and quickly climbed the business ladder. He became a business leader.
The couple moved to Scarsdale when their oldest son was four. Their three children, Jeffrey, Joey, and Alyssa all attended yeshiva day schools.
While her children were in school, Shelly pursued a master’s degree in special education and worked with teenage girls at YU High School.
Life in Scarsdale
“Our life in Westchester was a very busy and [we had a] friend-filled life. We prayed at the Young Israel of Scarsdale and were very happy there.”
Unfortunately, tragedy struck when Albert was reading the Torah one Shabbat morning. He forgot the words midstream and was rushed to the hospital. Albert was diagnosed with a malignant brain tumor and was given six months to live. With the help of experimental treatments, he lived for another two-and-a-half years.
Albert passed away at 48, when Jeff, Joey, and Alyssa were 16, 13, and 10, respectively. “My one regret is that I didn’t allow my kids to say their goodbyes to their father. I only wanted to protect them from this saddest experience.”
Life as a Single Mom
Work-life balance was challenging for Shelly as a single mother. When Albert passed away, Shelly became an insurance broker, working with her brothers. This job afforded her more flexibility.
Her children were very supportive. Her oldest son, Jeff, gave up his spot at Boston University and enrolled at Baruch College to be closer to his mother and siblings.
After several years as an insurance broker, Shelly returned to her special education position, helping challenged children. She found working with kids much more fulfilling than insurance.
She remained in Scarsdale for six years after Albert passed away. The house felt empty with her sons away at college and business. She considered buying an apartment in the Upper West Side in New York for Alyssa and herself.
“Something about the [the idea of living in a] Manhattan apartment and leaving my daughter home alone when I was out didn’t feel right. I realized I needed to go back to my community. We lived with my brother Lee for a year in Flatbush since his wife had recently passed away. I then rented my own apartment on Ocean Parkway in Brooklyn.”
Special Ed Career Takes Off
In Brooklyn, Shelly pursued her special education career working with many community families and others. She also obtained a specialized degree in bi-lingual special education for English and Spanish. She worked with the Spanish-speaking community and went wherever she was needed.
Shelly achieved immense success with many challenged children.
Before reading the official diagnosis for a particular child, Shelly reviewed the family dynamic at the home, which she considered to be a crucial step to allow her to make her assessment.
Employing fun and toys, Shelly worked to acquire a good read on the child and the family. Once she identified the issues, Shelly worked on enhancing the child’s strengths/skills. She built on and accentuated their assets while teaching them age-appropriate skills. Her teaching method employed play and games.
One of Shelly’s success stories was a four-year-old child who exhibited suicidal behaviors, hiding under the kitchen table with a knife. Shelly determined that this boy’s self-esteem was very low due to his precocious younger sister getting all the parents’ attention. Under Shelly’s care, the boy regained his self-esteem, began to feel special, and was accepted into yeshiva. His father started to exhibit great pride in him.
Other proud accomplishments include calming a three-year-old child with classical music and eliminating his deathly fear of subways. After one train trip with Shelly, he overcame his fear and he even wanted to ride the subway again!
Shelly used basketball as a tool to support another child. He learned to read, write, and be a happy youngster.
Shelly asked her son if she could give this child one of his basketball trophies as a reward for his achievements. Her son willingly consented.
A Second Chance for Love
“After 18 years of being alone, I remember asking Hashem if it was time for me to meet someone special. About three weeks later, a mutual friend introduced me to Eli Salem, a chemical engineer. His love of life and lifestyle enhanced me. We moved to Deal, NJ, and are very happy here. In addition to my husband Eli, my children and grandchildren are my most precious possessions.”
“My son Jeffrey is a compassionate, upbeat, hardworking venture capitalist and has two sons. Joey is thoughtful, a johnny-on-the-spot kind of guy, who started a commercial laundry business. Joey and his lovely, wife Vicki, have three children. Alyssa is married and works at Flatbush Yeshiva High School where she is loved and valued. They have four children. My kids are fun, smart, and very active. I am also blessed with Eli’s wonderful family.
“I am so grateful to have Eli as my partner. He grounds me. Eli is such a religious person and loves being at shul. We often discuss the parasha together.”
Community
“I am so fortunate to be part of the Syrian community where rabbis give of themselves all day and night, where friends and family learn to donate, help, and share life’s happiest and saddest moments. We are truly a compassionate and blessed community.”
Shelly’s volunteer work includes supporting challenged children at Hillel Yeshiva, SBH projects, and leading book clubs. She volunteered at Hillel’s early childhood for many years.
To unwind, Shelly spends time with her children and grandchildren. She enjoys painting, reading, playing bridge and canasta, and simply being with friends.
What’s Next
“I most definitely want to spend more time with Eli, enhance his life and mine simply by being together.”
Career Advice
“Follow your favorite hobbies if you have them and stretch them into professional pursuits. Take courses to strengthen your skills.”
Connect with Shelly at rachellesalem1@gmail.com.
Ellen Geller Kamaras, CPA/MBA, is an International Coach Federation (ICF) Associate Certified Coach. Her coaching specialties include life, career, and dating coaching. She can be contacted at ellen@lifecoachellen.com (www.lifecoachellen.com).
The 2024 U.S. presidential election will be remembered as one of the most surprising and consequential in the past fifty years. Former President Donald Trump’s decisive victory over Vice President Kamala Harris defied many predictions and reshaped the political landscape.
Not since Grover Cleveland won two non-consecutive terms in 1884 and 1892, has a candidate pulled off such a feat. Trump won the electoral college with 312 votes, versus Harris’s 226.
Trump’s victory was “a blow to political lawfare, critical race theory, woke campuses, legacy media, and Hollywood,” Niall Furguson of The Free Press wrote. Broadcaster Konstantin Kisin wrote that voters repudiated inflation, socialism, DEI, woke protesters, and unnecessary regulations.
Why Voters Rejected Harris
It is likely that the war in Israel shifted votes away from Harris. For example, the many Muslim voters in Michigan appeared not to be pleased with Biden’s support for Israel. That said, two Muslim Arab-American mayors from Michigan – Amer Ghalib and Bill Bazzi – both endorsed Trump, who has never been shy about supporting Israel.
Pundits, such as Batya Ungar-Sargon of Newsweek, suspected that Harris’s decision not to choose Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro as her vice president might have cost Harris Pennsylvania. Shapiro was said to have been shortlisted, and many believed rejected, because his being Jewish might have been a liability with leftist anti-Zionists.
Eve Barlow, a Los Angeles-based music and pop culture journalist, wrote that Harris being a woman was far less important to voters than the global feminist issues, such as the poor treatment of women in Afghanistan and Iran, and the plight of the female hostages of Gaza, which has not given enough attention by the Biden administration.
Fox News had pointed out about a week before the polls opened that the Harris campaign bought contradictory television commercials regarding her Israel policy – one geared towards the Muslims in Detroit, and another geared towards the Jewish voters in Philadelphia. This only added to the perception that she did not have a consistent message.
The 2024 congressional elections saw a narrow Republican victory that allowed the Republicans to maintain control of the House of Representatives. The Senate elections resulted in Republicans successfully reclaiming control of the upper chamber with a majority of 53 seats.
What can we expect for the Jewish community, and Israel, between Jan. 20, 2025 – when Trump swears in – and Jan. 20, 2029, when his term ends? How will his presidency affect us?
Trump and Iran
It would be shocking if Trump did not continue to support Israel over the next four years. In his first term, he visited Israel within his first 100 days in office, helped orchestrate the Abraham Accords, withdrew from the nuclear deal with Iran, recognized Jerusalem as Israel’s capital and placed the US embassy there, recognized Golan as Israel’s territory, and stood by Israel in the UN.
Chief Executive of the Foundation for the Defense of Democracies Mark Dubowitz said on CNN in the week after the election that Trump will “return to… a campaign of maximum pressure against the Islamic regime. Economic sanctions, going after the resources,” after four years of lax sanctions. We will also see “maximum support for the Iranian people,” the majority of whom are against the regime.
Each year, two million barrels of oil from Iran flow to China, and Dubowitz said that Trump may flood the market with oil as he did in his last term, to decrease the value of Iranian exports. He also said that most of the Iranian nuclear development occurred on Biden’s watch, and that will need to be dealt with.
Israel and Iran
On the military front, there may be another counteroffensive from Israel as happened Oct. 26th, when Israel took out some of Iran’s military infrastructure, according to retired Brigadier General Amir Avivi, a prominent Israeli military figure and security expert.
Avivi told CommunityMagazine that the “[Iranian] regime now is in a very sensitive moment” that probably leaves them more desperate to build a nuclear bomb… So, the race is on. The only way we have is to attack and destroy them, fast.”
“Trump might seize the moment and help dismantle the ‘Shia Axis,’” referring to the Hamas, Hezbollah, and the Islamic regime in Iran. “And if the U.S. builds a coalition, and is willing to deal with the regime, then they might embolden the Iranian people to fight the regime.”
Avivi believes “most of the Iranians love truth, hate this regime, and will be very glad to see it go.”
Avivi joined the Israel Defense Forces in 1987, and since has held positions as Director of the Office of the Chief of Staff and Deputy Comptroller of the Security Forces. During the 2002 Operation Defensive Shield, Avivi led a battalion of 800 soldiers in Judea and Samaria. By 2005, he held the position of aide-de-camp of the Chief of General Staff of the IDF, Lt. General Moshe Yaalon.
Three years after his retirement in 2017, Avivi, now 55, founded the Israeli Defense and Security Forum (IDSF). This non-partisan organization consists of 32,000 members of Israeli security forces, and aims to educate and advocate for Israel’s national security needs and Middle East policies. The organization has gained significant political and media influence. In 2018, operatives that would eventually join his team participated in capturing Iran’s nuclear archive, consisting of literally tons of information.
Avivi acknowledges that, “Americans do not want the trauma of another Afghanistan, but Iran is different,” he said. He believes that a now-hobbled Iran – with “very old planes” – can be defeated by a U.S.- led coalition.
“It can be a big win without too many repercussions, because Iran is weak. Israel needs to win decisively on all fronts, and not give up, and not stop, and not do ceasefires. We have an historical opportunity to really dismantle the whole Shia Axis,” he said.
“Israel is going to destroy Iran’s nuclear sites, but if we do it alone, it will take much more time [and be] much more complicated. The only way to shorten the war is a decisive win.”
Spearheaded by Trump, eventually there will be big peace agreement with Saudi Arabia, Avivi said, adding that the process was interrupted by Biden’s term, and the Gaza war.
Education
Donald Trump’s re-election is likely to have a significant impact on education policy and funding that will affect the Jewish community, particularly in the areas of school choice, religious education, and higher education.
Trump has been a strong proponent of school choice and voucher programs, which allow public education funds to be used for private and religious schools. His victory, along with Republican gains in Congress, could pave the way for expanded federal support of such initiatives.
For the Jewish community, this could mean increased access to and funding for Jewish day schools through voucher programs, more families being able to afford Jewish education for their children, and growth of Jewish schools as they become more financially viable.
Many Orthodox Jewish groups have advocated for school choice policies and would likely welcome their expansion, although there might be pushback from certain liberal Jewish organizations and others who oppose vouchers due to their view that it violates the separation of church and state.
Fighting Discrimination on Campus
Meanwhile, Trump could have an uphill battle when it comes to higher education. He has pledged to crack down on campus anti-Semitism, potentially by tying federal funding to universities’ handling of anti-Semitism complaints, expanding the use of the IHRA definition of anti-Semitism, and increasing Department of Education investigations into anti-Semitism allegations.
He pledged to institute what he called The College Accreditation System, a plan to “dismantle the U.S. indoctrination system [college] by seizing funds from schools that refuse to comply” with his accreditation system. He has also pledged to “fire the radical left accreditors that have allowed our colleges to become dominated by Marxist maniacs and lunatics.”
Trump wants to direct the Department of Justice to pursue federal civil rights cases against schools that continue to engage in discrimination. Those that continue to do so, he promised “will not only have their endowments taxed,” but he “will advance a measure to have them fined up to the entire amount of their endowment.” The seized funds will then be used as restitution for victims of these illegal and unjust policies, he said.
Political Appointments
Potential appointments for key positions in a future administration are notable for the appointees’ strong support of Israel.
Mike Waltz
Congressman Mike Waltz has been chosen to be the National Security Advisor. Waltz, a combat decorated Green Beret, still serving as a colonel in the US Army National Guard, has expressed unwavering support for Israel, describing it as the strongest democracy in the Middle East and emphasizing the importance of U.S.- Israel relations, especially considering the recent conflicts with Hamas.
Marco Rubio
Senator Marco Rubio has been tabbed for Secretary of State. Rubio has been vocal in his condemnation of Hamas, calling for its complete elimination and placing full blame on the organization for recent hostilities. In a video circulated online when Rubio was confronted by the anti-war group Code Pink, he said: “I want to destroy every element of Hamas … these people are vicious animals … Hamas is 100 percent to blame.”
Elise Stefanik
The U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations slot is slated for Representative Elise Stefanik, from New York’s 21st congressional district. She gained significant attention in December 2023 for her intense questioning of university presidents during a widely televised U.S. congressional hearing on anti-Semitism. The hearing, held by the House Committee on Education and the Workforce, focused on the rise of anti-Semitism on college campuses.
The fallout from this hearing was significant. It contributed to the resignations of several college presidents who testified, including those from Harvard, the University of Pennsylvania, and Columbia. It sparked a broader investigation by the House committee into how universities handle anti-Semitism on campus. The committee produced a 325-page report accusing eleven high-profile colleges of failing to protect Jewish students from anti-Semitism. The report suggested that some universities’ actions might violate Title VI of the Civil Rights Act, which could potentially affect their federal funding.
Stefanik has strongly endorsed Israel’s decision to prohibit UNRWA operations in Israel, Judea and Samaria, and Gaza. She has cited concerns about UNRWA staff involvement in terrorist activities, alleged misuse of UNRWA facilities by Hamas, and the organization’s alleged role in promoting anti-Semitism. Stefanik has called for a permanent cessation of U.S. funding to UNRWA.
Stefanik was quoted as saying, “The Biden-Harris Administration has sent over $1 billion to UNRWA since 2021, filling the coffers of this terrorist front. This must end. Just as President Trump did, and I have consistently advocated for, we must permanently cut off funding to UNRWA, which instills anti-Semitic hate in Palestinians, houses weapons for terrorists, and steals the aid they are supposed to be distributing.”
Mike Huckabee
Former Arkansas Governor Mike Huckabee was nominated to be the UN ambassador to Israel. Huckabee has been a vocal supporter of Israel throughout his political career.
“Israel, the only true democracy in the Middle East, needs our support now more than ever. With rising anti-Semitism and hostilities from Israel’s Arab neighbors, our Israeli brothers and sisters need us. Supporting Israel not only helps its citizens, but helps us in America as well,” he told Fox News in 2018.
“Every time I experience Israel, I feel a sense of serenity, holiness, and kinship that I find nowhere else. This must be what makes me keep coming me back. I have been visiting the Holy Land – the land of miracles in the Bible – for 45 years, with several trips each year,” Huckabee said.
“Like the United States, Israel believes in freedom, democracy, and fighting terrorism in all its forms. Israel is our truest ally in the Middle East, with values more closely aligned to ours than any other Middle Eastern nation.”
On CNN in 2017, Huckabee said, “There are certain words I refuse to use: there is no such thing as [the] West Bank; it’s Judea and Samaria. There’s no such thing as settlements – these are communities. There is no such thing as occupation.”
On a Jewish News Syndicate podcast earlier this year Huckabee said about Palestinians: “There really isn’t such a thing,” and “It’s a term that was co-opted by Yasser Arafat in 1962.”
Steven Witkoff
Trump named Steven Witkoff as his special Middle East envoy. The two are longtime friends. Trump called Witkoff a “highly respected leader in business and philanthropy.”
Former U.S. Ambassador to Israel David Friedman responded to the choice of Witkoff:: “Another great call. Steve is a brilliant businessman and a lover of Israel who will receive a warm welcome throughout the halls of power within the Middle East.
Aligning with Our Values
Someone who has been “on the ground,” as she describes, working hard for many years to get out the vote, is Chani Jos. The writer and activist said that in September, a poll created by Nishma Research (an organization based in W. Hartford, Connecticut that does sociological and marketing research for the Orthodox Jewish community) revealed that Trump was outpolling Harris among haredi Jews with 93 percent of the likely vote.
Known for her tireless non-partisan efforts to increase voter turnout, Jos shared her insights on the potential impact of the new administration.
Jos, who has dedicated years to encouraging civic participation across New York’s diverse communities, expressed mixed feelings about the election outcome. “While I’ve always focused on getting people to exercise their right to vote, regardless of their political leanings, I can’t help but reflect on what this result means for groups in our community,” she said.
Jos highlighted several key areas where she believes Trump’s policies will align with the values of the Orthodox Jewish community, a demographic that showed strong support for Trump during the campaign.
“Trump’s stance on protecting women’s sports from what he calls ‘forced inclusion of men’ resonates with many traditional voters,” Jos explained. “His commitment to maintaining separate spaces for biological women in athletics is seen as a defense of fairness and religious values by many in the Orthodox community.”
Jos also pointed out Trump’s emphasis on campus free speech and his promise to crack down on disruptive protests at universities. “The president-elect has vowed to punish what he terms ‘illegal campus protests,’ which he argues stifle conservative voices. This position is likely to find favor among those who feel traditional viewpoints are being silenced in academic settings,” she noted.
Jos emphasized Trump’s focus on traditional family structures as another area of alignment with Orthodox Jewish values. “His rhetoric about strengthening the nuclear family and promoting traditional marriage has struck a chord with many conservative religious voters, including those in the Orthodox community,” Jos said.
Reflecting on Trump’s public expressions of faith, Jos recalled the incident in Pennsylvania where Trump was shot at during a campaign rally. “When Trump thanked Gd for saving his life after the assassination attempt, it reinforced his image as a leader who respects and values faith. This resonates deeply with religious communities, including Orthodox Jews who prioritize a strong belief in Gd,” she explained.
Policies Affecting Our Community
Jos believes that Trump’s administration will likely implement policies that align with many Orthodox Jewish priorities. “From his promises to protect religious freedoms to his strong stance on Israel, Trump has positioned himself as an ally to the Orthodox community,” she said. “His approach to social issues and foreign policy, particularly in the Middle East, aligns closely with the worldview of many Orthodox Jews.”
However, Jos was quick to point out that support for Trump is not monolithic within the Jewish community. “It’s important to remember that Jewish voters, like any group, are diverse in their political views. While Trump’s policies may align with Orthodox values in many ways, there are still Jewish voters across the spectrum who have different priorities and concerns,” she cautioned.
Jos also expressed concern about the potential for increased division within communities. “As someone who has worked to bring people together through civic engagement, I worry about the deepening polarization in our society. It’s crucial that we find ways to bridge divides and maintain respectful dialogue, even when we disagree,” Jos emphasized.
Looking Ahead
Looking ahead, Jos stressed the importance of continued civic participation beyond election day. “Regardless of who is in office, it’s vital that people stay engaged in the political process. This means not just voting, but also staying informed, communicating with elected officials, and participating in local government,” she urged.
As the nation prepares for another Trump presidency, Jos remains committed to her non-partisan work in voter engagement. “My goal has always been to empower people to make their voices heard through the ballot box. That mission doesn’t change with the election results. If anything, it becomes even more critical as we navigate the challenges and changes ahead,” she concluded.
It is with a heavy heart that we reflect on the recent passing of the Rosh Yeshiva of Yeshiva Chaim Berlin, HaRav Shlomo Halioua, zt’l, at the age of 65. HaRav Halioua had assumed the position of Rosh Yeshiva only a year and a half ago, following the petira of his father-in-law, HaRav Aharon Shechter, zt’l. Thousands gathered at Yeshiva Chaim Berlin to pay their final respects, including his devoted talmidim, family, and many rabbanim. The community’s outpouring of grief reflects the profound loss of a Torah giant whose life was characterized by his deep dedication to Torah study, his boundless acts of hesed, and his humility, all of which left an indelible mark on all who knew him.
At the levaya, heartfelt hespedim were delivered by his sons, sons-in-law, and leading rabbanim, including HaRav Malkiel Kotler, HaRav Chaim Kitowitz, HaRav Yitzchok Meir Senderowitz, and HaRav Avigdor Kitowitz. They shared reflections on Rav Halioua’s incredible dedication to the yeshiva, his tzidkut (righteousness), his profound anivut (humility), his diligence in learning, and the endless hesed he performed quietly throughout his life. Among those who spoke were his son, Rabbi Yosef Halioua, who serves as Co-Rosh Yeshiva alongside his son-in-law, Rabbi Tzvi Fink, further highlighting the enduring legacy of Torah and dedication Rav Halioua instilled in his family.
Rav Halioua dedicated his life to the growth of Torah and the well-being of his talmidim. His devotion to Torah learning went beyond the yeshiva’s four walls, as he sought to instill in his talmidim a deep love for Torah, a commitment to integrity, and a life dedicated to service. His influence extended far beyond the students he taught directly, as he made a profound impact on the wider Torah community through his shiurim and personal interactions. Rav Halioua’s approach to Torah was filled with depth, insight, and an unparalleled clarity that brought both intellectual rigor and warmth to every topic he taught.
A Silent Battle and Unwavering Dedication
What is truly remarkable about Rav Halioua is that, despite enduring an illness that weakened him physically, he chose to conceal his pain from the public, not wanting to burden others. His commitment to his talmidim and the yeshiva never wavered, even as his health declined. In fact, in his final days, Rav Halioua took part in the yeshiva’s Simchat Beit HaShoeva celebrations, inspiring others with his words of Torah, his joyful dancing, and his radiant smile.
Just days before his petirah, Rav Halioua was taken to the hospital. Despite his weakened state, his message to the yeshiva was one of joy and encouragement. His last request was for tefillot from his talmidim, but he made it clear that the Simchat Torah celebrations should go on as usual, emphasizing that the Torah’s joy must continue even in difficult times. This selflessness, putting the needs and happiness of others before his own, was characteristic of Rav Halioua throughout his life.
A Heart-Wrenching Loss for Klal Yisrael
Adding to the pain of the loss of Rav Halioua was the passing of his mother, Rebbetzin Mesoda, a”h, just hours after her son. The levaya for both mother and son was held on the same day, leaving the family and community in a state of shock and deep sorrow. Rav Halioua’s son, Rav Yosef Halioua, Co-Rosh Yeshiva, spoke emotionally at the levaya about the incredible bond between his father and grandmother, and how both left this world together, united in their pure service of Hashem.
Rebbetzin Mesoda, a”h, was the wife of the esteemed Rav Avraham Halioua, zt”l, who had immigrated to the United States from Morocco and became a highly respected rav in Flatbush. Rav Shlomo Halioua continued his father’s legacy of Torah and hesed, leading his father’s shul after his petirah, while also dedicating himself to his own growth in Torah. Rav Halioua’s own lineage as a direct descendant of the Maharam Chalava, a talmid of the Rashba, speaks to the rich Torah heritage that shaped his life.
Torah Brilliance Paired with Humility
Rav Halioua was known for his brilliance in Torah, both in halacha and machshava. His shiurim were filled with insights that blended the depth of the Brisker derech (method) with the philosophical teachings of Rav Hutner, zt”l, the Maharal, and the Ramchal. Rav Halioua’s deep understanding of Torah was matched by his humility and accessibility. Despite his immense knowledge, he had the unique ability to connect with talmidim on a personal level, teaching not only Torah, but also how to live as a true ben Torah with middot tovot (good character traits) and a life of integrity.
His shiurim often focused on the teachings of Rav Hutner’s Pachad Yitzchak, but Rav Halioua had an extraordinary ability to make even the most complex and abstract ideas accessible to his students. His mastery of the Ramchal’s writings added further depth to his discourses, and his synthesis of machshava and halacha gave his students a broad, yet practical, understanding of Torah. His approach to Torah machshava introduced his talmidim to deeper layers of meaning, drawing on the teachings of Rav Moshe Dovid Valle, the great talmid of the Ramchal, as well as Rav Hutner’s insights.
Even in his final days, Rav Halioua continued delivering maamarim and teaching his beloved students, demonstrating his unwavering commitment to Torah learning despite the toll his illness had taken. He delivered a maamar during Hol HamoedSukkot, and was taken to the hospital shortly afterwards. His condition worsened over the second days of Sukkot. He continued to uplift and inspire others with his words until his very last moments.
A Life of Leadership and Hesed
Rav Halioua’s influence extended far beyond the walls of Yeshiva Chaim Berlin. His connections to great Torah leaders like Rav Binyomin Paler, zt”l, Rav Shmuel Auerbach, zt”l, and Rav Yonasan David, shlita, who he considered his primary rebbe, further enhanced his stature in the Torah world. His leadership, however, was always marked by a humility that made him approachable and beloved by all.
Rav Halioua’s life was a shining example of Torahlishma –Torah studied and taught for its own sake, and Torah lived through acts of hesed and tzniut (modesty). His ability to lead a Litvish yeshiva as a Sephardic talmid of such stature spoke volumes about the respect he commanded throughout the Torah world.
A Profound Loss and a Lasting Legacy
As the community gathered to escort Rav Halioua’s aron down Coney Island Avenue, past the yeshiva he devoted his life to, the somber atmosphere reflected the enormity of the loss felt by all who had the privilege of knowing him. His son, Rav Yosef Halioua, shlita, now continues the legacy of Torah learning and leadership, following in his father’s footsteps as Rosh Kollel.
Rav Shlomo Halioua’s legacy will live on through his talmidim, his family, and the countless people he touched with his wisdom, kindness, and humility. His passing is a profound loss for Yeshiva Chaim Berlin and for the entire Torah world, but his memory and teachings will continue to inspire future generations of bnei Torah.
Stories abound about Rav Halioua’s heartfelt connection to other Jews and his modesty. He did not hold himself above others, although he could have, due to his stature as a world-class Torah scholar. He felt he was one of the amcha, the Jewish people. One of his follows shared the following story. “When we got married during COVID, Rav Shlomo heard that our wedding was set to be held on our back porch and that we couldn’t invite anyone. Rav Shlomo walked over to wish us mazal tov in person for a minute so that we felt we had guests and to show his personal love.”
A Personal Reflection
When I was given the privilege to write this tribute, I approached it with a deep sense of reverence. Rav Halioua’s legacy resonates not just within the walls of the yeshiva, but also in the hearts of families like mine. His wife, Rebbetzin Halioua, taught all of my daughters, and I have always been in awe of how a woman of such dignity and grace, who truly emanates royalty in her every action, devoted herself to the education of the next generation at Ateret Torah. She carried herself with the same values that Rav Halioua embodied – humility, kindness, and a commitment to nurturing others. Our community, and my family in particular, is profoundly grateful for the lasting impact both Rav and Rebbetzin Halioua have had on our lives.
May his neshama have the highest aliyah, and may he be a meilitz yasher for all of Klal Yisrael. Yehi zichro baruch – his memory is a blessing for all who knew him and learned from him.
Looking for a festive Hanukah dish to serve this year? These classic latkes with a twist are sure to impress your family and friends! Slow cooking the meat stovetop yields tender pieces of beef that fall apart easily at the touch of the fork. Topped with smashed avocado and quick pickled red onions, this dish is sure to become a family favorite.
Makes: 6 servings
Pulled Beef :
1 lb. brisket or beef chuck
2 onions, sliced thin
⅕ cup canola oil
½ cup dark brown sugar
4 cloves minced garlic
½ cup soy sauce
Salt and pepper
In a large pot, sauté onions in oil for 5-7 minutes until golden.
Sprinkle beef with salt and pepper and add to onions, letting each side brown for about five minutes each.
Add brown sugar, garlic, soy sauce, and water to cover. Bring to a boil and then reduce to a medium to low flame and cover. Cook for 3-4 hours, until very soft, adding more water to keep water level covering beef at all times.
When cooked, remove beef from liquid and use two forks to shred beef.
Latkes:
4 medium potatoes
1 onion
3 tbsp flour
2 eggs
1 tsp salt
½ tsp black pepper
Oil for frying
Peel potatoes and onions and grate using a hand grater or using a similar blade from a food processor. Squeeze out excess liquids.
Add remaining ingredients and mix.
Heat 1 cup oil in a wide lipped skillet. Scoop about 1/4 cup latke mixture and fry 4-5 minutes each side, until golden.
Transfer the latkes to a paper towel lined tray or plate and repeat until remaining latkes batter is complete.
Smashed Avocado:
1 avocado
2 tbsp lemon juice
1 tbsp olive oil
Salt and pepper
Peel and pit avocado. Place in a bowl with lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
Use a fork to lightly smash avocado.
Pickled Red Onions:
1 red onion
1 tbsp sugar
½ cup apple cider vinegar
1 tsp salt
Whisk vinegar, sugar, salt, and 1 cup water in a small bowl until sugar and salt dissolve.
Place red onion, thinly sliced, in a mason jar with a tight-fitting lid. Let sit at room temperature for 1 hour.
Do Ahead: Pickled red onions can be made up to 2 weeks ahead. Drain onions before using.
Assembly:
Place latkes on a serving dish. Add about a small amount of avocado, then layer with shredded beef and finally with pickled red onion. Optional to garnish with flaky Maldon salt and fresh parsley. Serve immediately.
The Secret of Overcoming Darkness and Despair in Our Personal lives
It’s dark outside. As winter sets in, sunset cuts the days short and the nights seem to stretch on forever. If you think about it, it can seem strange that Hanukah, the Festival of Lights, falls out during the darkest, coldest time of the year.
Rising Above the Darkness
Yet, when we take a step back and analyze the message of Hanukah, we see that this is precisely the message of the holiday – that a small bit of oil can provide a great deal of illumination, that we can find the light of hope and faith even in the darkest periods. By contemplating this message, we can walk away from this joyous holiday with a timeless lesson about accessing light in the midst of darkness, and thus be able to triumph over the darkness in our personal lives, and become changed people.
Jewish history bears out this lesson in a remarkable way. For centuries, the Jewish people have risen above the most immobilizing darkness. In the face of destruction, tragedy, and threats of total annihilation, we have continually prevailed despite all odds. We have always found the small ray of light that drove away the most dreadful darkness.
As we languish in this lengthy galut, our situation often seems foggy, unclear, or even dark. And it can be a struggle to maintain our equilibrium and inner peace. When we experience “darkness” in our personal lives, when we see those around us floundering, or when we find ourselves constantly bombarded with news about tragedies, it can seem as if we have nowhere to turn. Clarity evades us, as we continue to ask ourselves many difficult questions. Why are these things happening? Where can I turn? What is the right answer?
Finding Clarity and Fortitude
How can we obtain the clarity – the light in the darkness – that our generation is so desperately seeking?
Rebbetzin Tziporah Harris, renowned lecturer and creator of The Clarity Seminar, discusses the importance of fortifying ourselves with bitahon (trust in Gd). She shares that a breakthrough in clarity is possible through persistent effort and a steadfast commitment to reviewing these principles. Trusting that Hashem loves us and does everything for our ultimate benefit gives us the emotional fortitude we need to prevail over life’s challenges.
Every human being is a vessel. And what we choose to fill that vessel with becomes our experience of life. We can choose to fill our minds with positive messages, and we can train ourselves to recognize that all that happens in life is for our training and development. Yes, getting stuck in a trafficjam is a great lesson in patience. We can find growth opportunities in every circumstance.
We can flex our “gratitude muscles” by taking a minute each day to count our blessings, thereby training our minds to focus on the positive, on what we have instead of on what we are lacking. Thank Hashem for the people in your life, for the parts of your body that are healthy and functioning, and for all of your material possessions.
We can fortify ourselves against the pressures of everyday life that threaten to drag us down. All it takes is a few minutes a day of infusing messages of bitahon into one’s consciousness.
An Opening Like the Eye of a Needle
One way to do this is by repeating affirmations. Though this may sound simplistic, affirmations are, in fact, very beneficial, since our words have tremendous power and can profoundly affect who we are.
When we say statements like, “All that happens is for my training and development,” “All that happens is a character development opportunity,” or “Hashem is taking me exactly where I need to go,” they can really begin to sink in. Then when your child spills spaghetti and meatballs all over your white carpet, you will be able to look at the incident through the proper glasses. You will be able to refer back to the phrases that you have been filling your mind with, and they will strengthen you. You may even be able to think, “Aha! I have been asking Hashem to help me become a more patient person. This is a great opportunity to develop patience.” Sure, this takes time, but the more you fill your mind with uplifting thoughts, the more you will be able to deal with minor annoyances with composure, even the ones that seem to come completely out of left field. Everything is an opportunity for growth!
Our sages teach, “Open up for me an opening like the eye of a needle, and I will enlarge it to be an opening through which wagons can enter” (Midrash Rabbah to Shir Hashirim 5:2). All we need is to initiate one small step, to shine one small light, and then Hashem will carry us to the places we need to go.
As we celebrate the Hanukah miracles, we should also reflect on the seemingly small miracles in our own personal lives that we tend to overlook. We can realize that we have so much to be grateful for, and that when Hashem closes one door, He opens another, and He carries us to places that are greater than we could have ever imagined. We just have to be ready to walk through that door. Hanukah’s messages can give us the strength to make it all the way through.
