Exploring the Wonders of the Human Anatomy

Have you ever experienced a sudden, sharp headache when eating or drinking something very cold, like ice cream or a Slurpee? This is called brain freeze, and it is a brief but painful headache that generally lasts less than thirty seconds.

You usually experience brain freeze while eating or drinking something very cold, too fast. When something very cold touches the roof of your mouth (the palate), the sudden temperature change of the tissue stimulates nerves to cause the blood vessels in your brain to swell. This is an attempt to direct blood to the cold area in order to warm it up. The swelling of the blood vessels is what causes the pain in the head.

Doctor Talk

The medical term for brain freeze, also known as the “ice cream headache,” is sphenopalatine ganglioneuralgia, which means “nerve pain of the sphenopalatine ganglion(a bundle of nerves located deep in the face).”

Brain Freeze Relief Tips

To relieve the pain of a brain freeze, you need to warm up the roof of your mouth for the blood vessels to constrict. The quickest way to accomplish this is by pressing your tongue against the roof of your mouth. Other easy ways to relieve the pain is by drinking a warm liquid, or by breathing in through the mouth and exhaling through the nose, thereby allowing warm air to pass through the nasal passages.

To prevent having a brain freeze altogether, remember to consume cold foods slowly and to pause between bites or sips to give your palate a break from the cold.

10, 9, 8, 7, …

Brain freeze typically hits about ten seconds after chilling your palate.

FACT or FICTION???

Everyone is equally likely to get brain freeze.

This is false!  Some people are more sensitive due to nerve response or sinus structure.

Jack Gindi

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

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

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

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

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

Real Optimism Adds More Than Years

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

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

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

How to Think Like a Real Optimist

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

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

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

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

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

Why Optimists Live Better

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

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

Dear Community Members,

We welcome you back to the City of Long Branch for another great
season at the Jersey Shore! Whether you are spending your summer
with us or just visiting for a day, we hope you will take advantage of
what Long Branch has available for you.

Our city has more to offer than ever before to make it the best place to be to enjoy your summer.

We have several parks for recreation. Manahasset Creek Park has fields and courts, a walking path, and fitness stations. Our revitalized Jackson Woods park is a peaceful place to enjoy nature as well as interesting outdoor sculptures.

Our Recreation Department offers a variety of programs including
five family-friendly Fun Days in various neighborhoods throughout the City. Our Arts & Cultural Center on Broadway offers many interesting exhibits and programs, our new Senior Center offers evening programs open to everyone, and our Fire and History Museum recognizes the city’s proud past.

Oceanfest features one of the best fireworks displays along the shore with fun for the whole family! There are many other events throughout the summer months. Please go to our website at longbranch.org under “Community Events” to see a comprehensive list of summer happenings.

Be sure to pick up a library card to utilize our beautiful, newly renovated main library, and explore all the programs and special exhibits they have to share.

Long Branch has four miles of beautiful beaches for you to enjoy. Some have extended hours, and two locations are fully accessible. Our
beaches are open through September 2, 2025. For more information, please visit our website under “Beach Information.”

We also offer daily passes for Long Branch residents at our refreshing community pool, and both residents and non-residents may purchase season passes.

The summer months are a time for relaxation and fun. I wish everyone a safe and enjoyable summer!

Sincerely

John Pallone Mayor

“By defending ourselves, we’re also defending others. We’re defending our Arab neighbors, our Arab friends in peace, we’re defending Europe, we’re helping defend also the United States, which helps us all the time in our defense. This is an important mission.”

–  Israel Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu

Dave Gordon

In the early hours of Friday, June 13, 2025, Israel launched a massive and coordinated military campaign against Iran’s nuclear and missile infrastructure. The operation, codenamed “Rising Lion,” marked the most extensive Israeli assault on Iranian soil since the Iran-Iraq War, targeting not only nuclear facilities but also the upper echelons of Iran’s military and scientific leadership. The codename comes from the Biblical verse that points to s victorious future for a powerful Israel: Behold, the people shall rise up as a great lion (Numbers 23:24).

The Israeli cabinet divided the Book of Psalms between them before making the decision to launch an attack on Iran. Hours before the operation, Prime Minister Netanya was photographed at the Kotel, placing a note between the cracks of the Wall.

According to BBC News and a public address from Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, the decision to strike came after intelligence confirmed that Iran had amassed enough enriched uranium to build multiple nuclear bombs and was actively assembling weapon components. Netanyahu, addressing the nation, declared that further delay would have meant an existential threat to Israel.

Israeli Air Force Strikes

At around 3:30am in Iran, the Israeli Air Force unleashed waves of airstrikes across the country. More than 200 fighter jets participated, hitting dozens of strategic sites – nuclear enrichment complexes in Fordow, Isfahan, Kermanshah, Tabriz, Tehran, Qom, and others, according to Col. John Spencer.Ballistic missile bases in Piranshahr and IRGC HQ in Kermanshah were hit. IRGC headquarters in Kermanshah, Iran was reportedly attacked.

Various reports say that Netanyahu and his cabinet played up a public riff to throw Iran off the scent, and make them believe no military actions would occur.

The IAF deployed massive bunker-buster bombs in a direct strike on Iran’s Natanz uranium enrichment facility, one of the regime’s most fortified and strategically critical nuclear sites, according to a June 13th story in BBC News.

The Mossad in Action

The strikes were meticulously planned, with months of Mossad-led intelligence gathering culminating in simultaneous commando raids, sabotage operations, and drone attacks launched from within Iran itself, according to BBC News.

In a separate operation, the Mossad operatives embedded sophisticated attack technologies inside civilian vehicles near high-value air defense installations, according to a Free Press report.

At the onset of the Israeli strike, these hidden systems were triggered, destroying Iran’s defensive radar and interception capabilities, clearing the skies for the IAF.

Long before the aerial attack, the Mossad had already established a covert drone launch base within Iran, smuggling in explosives over time. During the main assault, these drones were launched at surface-to-surface missile launchers housed at the Asfaqabad base near Tehran. The attack neutralized a major component of Iran’s offensive missile threat.

Confirmed Casualties

In the Israeli operation, several of Iran’s most senior military and nuclear figures were killed. Confirmed casualties included IRGC Commander Hossein Salami, Armed Forces Chief Mohammad Bagheri, and nuclear scientists Fereydoun Abbasi and Mohammad Mehdi Tehranchi. Ali Shamkhani, a key adviser to Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei and a principal negotiator in nuclear talks, was also reportedly killed, as was Khosal Reza Mossvarini, a senior officer in the Iranian Revolutionary Guard.

The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corp intelligence headquarters in Tehran was set on fire.

IDF spokesman Brigadier General Effie Defrin declared, “At this time, we can say that we have achieved full aerial superiority over Tehran’s skies.” Military experts cited by outlets such as The Wall Street Journal and Business Insider note that Israel’s suppression of Iranian air defenses allows its warplanes – including older F-15s and F-16s – to drop bombs from within Iranian airspace, and not just rely on long-range missiles.

Iran Retaliates

Iran’s retaliation was swift but less effective than anticipated, revealing limitations in its ability to inflict mass casualties on Israel, largely due to the effectiveness of Israeli missile defenses. Iran launched several waves of ballistic missiles and drones at Israeli cities, including Jerusalem, Tel Aviv, Haifa, and northern towns.

The Associated Press reported that some Iranian missiles were intercepted in the sky above the Jordanian capital, Amman.

By  June 16th, at least 24 Israelis were killed and some 600 wounded from Iranian missile attacks, fired at Tel Aviv, Haifa, and Jerusalem, according to Israel Hayom. Reports of buildings collapsing and fatalities in Bnei Brak, Tel Aviv, and other cities are confirmed. A Bat Yam apartment building was hit, according to the Times of Israel, where seven were killed and a hundred injured. In the northern Arab city of Tamra a home took a direct hit and four family members were killed, reports Times of Israel. 

Israel’s Reach and America’s Folly

Israel’s unprecedented ability to strike deep into Iranian territory – including the heart of Tehran – has shattered long-held assumptions about Iran’s security and exposed vulnerabilities in its air defenses. The operation’s sophistication, involving covert Mossad operations and drone strikes launched from within Iran, has demonstrated a new level of operational reach and intelligence dominance.

In a recent National Post exclusive interview by this author, the pro-Israel exiled Crown Prince of Iran, Reza Pahlavi, the eldest son of the former Shah of Iran, cautioned the world against the continued folly of “the policy of containment, or appeasement” saying that “after 40 years of this, how much more proof do you need that it doesn’t work?” He condemned the Obama-Biden administration for releasing to the Iranian regime billions that only allowed the mullahs to fund more of its terror-spreading extremist proxies.

He added on X on June 14th, “The Islamic Republic and its incompetent and criminal leaders have dragged Iran into war.”

World Leaders Weigh In

Various world powers had differing responses to the Israeli attack.

The German government, represented by Chancellor Friedrich Merz and Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul, did not condemn Israel’s bombing of Iran. German officials emphasized Israel’s “right to defend its existence and the safety and security of its citizens,” particularly in light of the perceived nuclear threat from Iran. At the same time, Germany called for restraint and diplomacy from all parties, urging both Israel and Iran to avoid actions that could escalate tensions further.

UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer expressed “grave concerns” over Iran’s nuclear program and affirmed Israel’s right to self-defense, but stated, “Now is the time for restraint, calm, and a return to diplomacy. Escalation serves no one in the region. Stability in the Middle East must be the priority and we are engaging partners to de-escalate.”

Canadian Foreign Affairs Minister Anita Anand has called for de-escalation following Israel’s strikes on Iranian nuclear and military sites. She warned that “further action risks triggering a broader regional conflict with devastating consequences,” and urged both Israel and Iran to “refrain from actions that further destabilize the region.” Anand reiterated that Canada “always favors negotiated resolutions and encourages the involved parties to engage in dialogue,” emphasizing diplomacy as the path to enduring peace and security in the region.

The Iranian Regime – Axis of Terror

A year ago, the Iranian regime launched over 380 rockets and suicide drones at Israel in a coordinated attempt to murder civilians and ignite an all-out war. Meanwhile, it armed the Houthis, who fired rockets into Israel. The regime controls Hezbollah, and Iran bankrolled and orchestrated the October 7th massacre, the bloodiest day for Jews since the Holocaust.

Israel is standing on the front line against a regime that has exported Jihad, terrorism, and death across the globe, and turned Islam into a weapon of political conquest. But now, Netanyahu stated, “Iranian leaders are packing their bags” amid Israeli airstrikes.

What is unfolding in Iran might lead to the return of pre-revolutionary Iran, to the return of Western values, and the end of colonial Islamic darkness. And if it does, it will have been Israel paving the way, striking deep, standing firm, and saving the world from the continued grip of this evil.

Thousands in Iranians are now flooding the streets, not in fear, but in defiance and celebration of this now-crippled Islamic regime.

Netanyahu and Trump

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu issued a statement June 14th, addressing President Donald Trump by saying: “You’ve been an extraordinary leader: decisive, courageous, clear vision, clear action. You have done great things for Israel. You’ve been an extraordinary friend to the Jewish state and to me personally.

“And we appreciate what you’re doing now, helping protect Israeli lives against the criminal regime in Iran… By defending ourselves, we’re also defending others. We’re defending our Arab neighbors, our Arab friends in peace, we’re defending Europe, we’re helping defend also the United States, which helps us all the time in our defense. This is an important mission.

“Our enemy is your enemy. And by doing what we’re doing, we’re dealing with something that will threaten all of us sooner or later. Our victory will be your victory.”

An Open Miracle

Former U.S. Ambassador to Israel sums up the feelings of many of us. He tweeted on June 13th, “If you didn’t believe in miracles before, you should now. The skill, precision, and dramatically successful results of Israel’s attack on Iran’s nuclear facilities and missile silos, coupled with Israel’s interception of more than 100 attack drones launched against it by Iran before any drone crossed into Israel airspace, tells you pretty clearly that Gd is at work here, and whose side He is on!”

Rabbi David Sutton & Dr. David Katzenstein, LCSW-R

The Inner Child

The Gaon of Vilna (Mishlei 16:7) teaches that the term tinok,child (mentioned in Sotah 47a) refers to the middot and paths that we’ve always followed, as well as the animal instinct that we’ve always gone after, behavior to which we’ve grown accustomed.  This behavior is called a tinok because it’s been with us from when we were infants.

We all have a child inside of us, and we have to talk to that inner child, just like we talk to our actual children. If our four-year-old wants to eat sour belts before he eats his supper, we have to talk to him and explain to him on his level why he must first eat healthy foods, until he understands.  True, at times we have to be strict, but, in talking with our inner child, as well as with our actual children, the strictness must be carried out with the left hand, the less dominant hand. The pushing away has to be weaker than the bringing close. We have to work with our inner child until he agrees and understands why something is better for him.

Giving the Right Messages

We do need to be cautious in regard to ingraining these values within our children. Often as parents we engage in what is termed “double-bind messaging,” a type of communication that creates conflicting and incompatible messages for the child, leading to confusion and psychological distress. He has no idea what is expected of him.

When a child comes home with an unsatisfactory grade, we might say, “Don’t worry about the mark you got on the test, as long as you put in the effort.” But while we say these words, our affect and expression send a message of disappointment.

Or a parent may tell a child, “Be independent, but don’t make decisions without my approval.” So is he supposed to be independent, or does he go to his parent with every decision? This creates a double-bind situation. It’s a Catch 22. The child is left feeling confused, unsure of what is expected of him. He may feel like he can never satisfy his parents’ expectations.

Overall, double-bind messages can have a negative impact on a child’s development and well-being. They can lead to feelings of anxiety, low self-esteem, and decreased confidence. Over time, the repeated experience of double-bind messages can lead to internalized conflicts and a sense of being trapped.

By providing clear, consistent, and supportive messages, parents can help their children to feel confident, secure, and well-adjusted.

We can’t wake up one morning and decide: From now on, I will speak only words of Torah or prayer throughout the day. No more inconsequential discussions! Of course, such a resolution will backfire. We must work with our inner child and take on honest, realistic commitments.

The Four Sons

At the Pesach seder, we read from the Haggadah, “The Torah speaks about four sons,” four children whom we are to tell about the Exodus from Egypt. If the Haggadah is recited by a person who is on his own, and he is not recounting the story of Yetziyat Mitzrayim to anyone else, why does he, too, have to read about the four sons? 

Because we each have all four children inside of us: a hacham, a wise side; a rasha,a wicked side; a tam,simple side; and a she’eino yode’a lishol,a side of us that doesn’t even know how to ask.

Each one must be spoken to on his level, not only at the seder, but within ourselves, as well.

TAKEAWAY:

All of these children are inside each of us, and we have to learn how to work with, not ignore, our inner child.

For example, rather than clamping down on our insatiable desire to eat by fasting, it is best to eat a full meal, but to convince our inner child to leave over one or two bites. This is called taanit haRaavad, and it teaches us to curb our desires – without causing the inner childto fight back.

Rabbi Yehuda Finchas

“Rabbi, I was wondering about something regarding Shabbat,” Sammy began. “I’m generally healthy, but I take vitamins regularly to help me feel strong. I’m unsure if the rules about taking medication on Shabbat apply to vitamins as well. Could you clarify this for me?”

Maachal Breiim for Mild Ailments

The Shulchan Aruch (Orach Chaim 328:37) establishes that one may consume maachal breiim – regular foods and beverages that healthy individuals consume – even if they provide medicinal benefits. For example, someone with a mild cold, who is generally prohibited from taking medication on Shabbat due to the rabbinic decree of gezerat shehikat samemanim (the prohibition of grinding herbs to prepare medicine), is permitted to drink chicken soup or lemon tea with honey for relief, as these are considered regular foods and drinks consumed by healthy individuals. Gezerat shehikat samemanim does not apply to everyday foods. Based on this principle, Hacham Ovadia Yosef, zt”l, permits consuming soda water for heartburn relief on Shabbat (Halichot Olam Vol. 4, p. 205) as soda water is a regular, commonly consumed, beverage.

Maachal She’eino Breiim for Mild Ailments

Conversely, maachal she’eino breiim – foods not typically consumed by healthy individuals – should not be taken for medicinal purposes by someone with a mild ailment, due to the concern of gezerat shehikat samemanim (O.C. 328:37). For instance, homemade herbal remedies using herbs not commonly eaten are prohibited on Shabbat for minor illnesses. However, this restriction does not apply to a choleh she’ein bo sakana (a non-critically ill person), who is permitted to take necessary medication on Shabbat.

Maachal She’eino Breiim for Healthy Individuals

Regarding healthy individuals, the Beit Yosef (ibid) explains that the issue of eating maachal she’eino breiim on Shabbat does not apply to them,and there is noconcern of gezerat shehikat samemanim  as they are not sick. Therefore, a healthy person may consume natural herbal remedies (maachal she’eino breiim) even to strengthen their health. The Magen Avraham (328:43), however, disagrees, permitting such foods only when consumed for hunger or thirst, not solely for health enhancement. Hacham Ovadia Yosef (Chazon Ovadia, Shabbat, Vol. 3, p. 363) explains that those following the Shulchan Aruch may consume maachal she’eino breiim to maintain or improve their health.

Vitamins on Shabbat

In this context, Hacham Ovadia Yosef explicitly permits healthy individuals to take vitamins on Shabbat (ibid), even for the purpose of maintaining good health (Halichot Olam, Vol. 4, p. 207). This is because a healthy person is allowed to consume maachal she’eino breiim.Bottom of Form It’s important to note that those who follow the opinion of the Magen Avraham might not permit taking vitamins on Shabbat, as they are typically not consumed to satisfy hunger. However, Hacham Ben Zion Abba Shaul (Ohr Lezion 2:36:10) suggests a potential leniency even according to the Magen Avraham’s view, arguing that vitamins could be classified as maachal breiim due to their common consumption by healthy individuals.

Conclusion

In response to Sammy’s question, it is permitted for a healthy person to take vitamins on Shabbat. This is because the issue of eating maachal she’eino breiim on Shabbat does not extend to healthy individuals. This aligns with the ruling of Hacham Ovadia Yosef, who permits healthy individuals taking vitamins on Shabbat even for health reasons. While some authorities, like the Magen Avraham, might hold a more restrictive view, the prevailing Sephardic approach, following the Shulchan Aruch and the rulings of Hacham Ovadia Yosef, considers it acceptable for  healthy individuals to take vitamins on Shabbat. Furthermore, the suggestion of Hacham Ben Zion Abba Shaul offers a potential basis for leniency even within other halachic perspectives, given the common use of vitamins by healthy people. Therefore, according to the Sephardic tradition, Sammy would be allowed to take his vitamins on Shabbat.

Rabbi Yehuda Finchas is a worldwide expert, lecturer and author on Medical Halacha. He heads the Torat Habayit Medical Halacha Institute. His latest book is “Brain Death in Halacha and the Tower of Babel Syndrome.” To contact Rabbi Finchas, email rabbi@torathabayit.com.

Michele Shrem

Anti-Semitism is a word heavy with history, pain, and injustice. From ancient persecution to the horrors of the Holocaust, and now to the current rise of hate incidents, Jewish communities around the world continue to grapple with different forms of anti-Semitism. While the word “anti-Semitism” carries a shared meaning, how it is felt and experienced is deeply personal.

Here community members weigh in on this sensitive topic. Their voices reflect anger, confusion, resilience, pride, and a yearning to be seen beyond the stereotypes.

David B.

“The strange thing about anti-Semitism is that it can feel invisible until suddenly it’s not. One day I’m at a dinner party and someone makes a joke about Jews and money like it is casual trivia. And I think, would you say that about any other group and expect me to laugh?” David describes himself as “visibly Jewish,” often wearing a kippah in public. He has been verbally harassed on the subway and once had to escort his children away from a protest where anti-Semitic slurs were being chanted. “It’s not just the violence,” he says. “It’s the constant drip of assumption and suspicion.”

Maya T.

“Being Jewish on campus feels like walking a tightrope. I’m proud of who I am, but I also know if I speak up about anti-Semitism, some people will say I’m just being dramatic.” Maya is active in her university’s Jewish student group. She notes an uptick in hostility around discussions about Israel, where “Jewish students are often held responsible for geopolitical decisions thousands of miles away.” For her, the line between criticism and anti-Semitism is sometimes crossed with alarming ease.

Eli C.

“There’s a spiritual wound that comes with being hated for simply existing. My role is to help my community heal, but also to prepare.” Eli has led community responses to local synagogue vandalism and helps coordinate security training with law enforcement. “It’s a strange contradiction – offering spiritual peace while knowing someone might walk through our doors with a gun.”

Isaac O.

“There’s this myth that anti-Semitism died after the Holocaust. I see it in classrooms when students doubt what I say, or ask if I’m exaggerating.” Isaac has dedicated his life to educating young people about the Holocaust, but he’s often disheartened by the skepticism he encounters. “When you have people who say it [the Holocaust] didn’t happen, or that it wasn’t that bad, that’s not just ignorance – it’s hatred repackaged as opinion.”

Sara S.

“I live in two worlds. In Israel, being Jewish is normal. In New York, it can feel like a liability, especially in certain professional settings.” Sara splits her time between Israel and the U.S. and she’s noticed how her colleagues in the tech industry avoid Jewish topics. “People will talk about diversity all day, but when I mention anti-Semitism, it’s like I’ve said a dirty word.”

Egal Z.

“I want my kids to be proud Jews, but I worry every time they wear their Star of David necklaces outside.” There has seen a troubling rise in anti-Semitic attacks, and Egal has taught his children how to recognize danger. “We’ve had serious talks about where to sit on the bus, how to respond to threats, when to hide their identity. It’s heartbreaking.”

Joey D.

“Anti-Semitism doesn’t always wear a swastika. Sometimes it wears a smile and asks why we’re always so ‘pushy’ or ‘successful.’” Joey has lost clients after revealing he’s Jewish. He’s also had vendors assume he’d be “good with money” or he’d be an “aggressive negotiator.” “These stereotypes are older than me, but they still shape how people see us. That’s exhausting.”

What Unites These Voices

What emerges from these deeply personal reflections is that anti-Semitism isn’t just an external threat – it shapes daily choices, instills fear, and, paradoxically, strengthens identity. From America to Europe, in schools, workplaces, and places of worship, Jews continue to face a unique form of prejudice that often goes unchallenged.

But what also emerges is strength. The act of speaking out, of refusing to disappear, is itself resistance. Whether through education, art, activism, or simple persistence, these individuals – and countless others like them – are shaping a world where hate does not get the final word. We are not defined by the hatred we face, but rather, we are defined by the lives we build in spite of it.

Anti-Semitism on College Campuses

College campuses have long been considered bastions of free thought, diversity, and inclusion. Yet for many Jewish students, that ideal is being eroded by a troubling resurgence of anti-Semitism across North American and European universities. From hostile rhetoric to physical threats, students report an environment that often feels more alienating than empowering. While the rise in ant-Semitism isnot exclusive to universities, the setting presents unique dangers-where ideas gain traction quickly, peer influence is powerful, and institutional responses are often delayed, inconsistent, or politically constrained.

There has been a climate of fear, and since 2020 Jewish students have reported a dramatic increase in anti-Semitic incidents on college campuses. The Anti-Defamation League (ADL) and Hillel International documented hundreds of cases in the 2023–2024 academic year alone, ranging from hateful graffiti and swastikas in dormitories to verbal harassment, social media intimidation, and even physical violence. In many cases, Jewish students say they are not just afraid,they also feel isolated. Instead of openly wearing a Star of David necklace, many are now tucking their necklaces in while walking through campus.

Subtle and Less Subtle Forms of Anti-Semitism

Anti-Semitism on campus does not always take the form of overt slurs or vandalism. More often, it’s subtle: Jewish students being left out of progressive student groups for their alleged “Zionist” views, professors singling out Jewish students during political discussions, or students being asked to denounce Israel in order to prove their commitment to justice. At its most extreme, anti-Semitism on campus has become violent. In several recent cases, Jewish students have reported being physically threatened or assaulted at protests, or targeted online with coordinated harassment campaigns.

Perhaps the most controversial and difficult line to draw on college campuses is the one between anti-Zionism and anti-Semitism. Criticism of Israel’s government and policies – like criticism of any country – is legitimate and protected under the right to free speech. However, when this criticism morphs into blanket hostility toward Jewish students, or denial of Israel’s right to exist, it often veers into blatant ant-Semitism. Some professors and student leaders have also fueled this divide, painting Jewish identity and Zionism as inherently colonial, thereby erasing the complex and diverse relationship many Jews have with Israel.

Universities’ Apathy and the Response

Many Jewish students say their universities have failed to seriously address anti-Semitism on campus. Despite the existence of diversity and inclusion offices, anti-Semitic incidents are often underreported, dismissed, or reframed as political debate. In some cases, students claim they are told to simply avoid certain events or “stay silent to deescalate.”

In response, some Jewish advocacy groups have begun lobbying for stronger protections. The U.S., the Department of Education’s Office for Civil Rights has opened several investigations under Title VI of the Civil Rights Act, which protects students from discrimination based on shared ancestry or ethnic characteristics, which includes anti-Semitism.

The emotional burden of anti-Semitism on college students is severe. According to Hillel International, nearly one in three Jewish students say they’ve felt unsafe or unwelcome on campus. For many, this leads to self-censorship, isolation, or disengagement from Jewish life. Some Jewish students even feel forced to “pass” as non-Jews in academic or social settings –not affixing or actually removing mezuzahs from their dorm rooms, removing Jewish identifiers from social media, or refraining from speaking up in class.

Fighting Back

Despite the hostility, many Jewish students are choosing to fight back -with dignity and strength. They launch educational campaigns, and push for clear university policies on anti-Semitism. Social media is also a battleground where Jewish students share stories, organize support, and challenge misinformation.

Addressing anti-Semitism on campus requires more than statements and hashtags. It demands a clear definition of anti-Semitism that includes contemporary forms, such as anti-Zionist hostility when targeted at Jews. Mandatory education on anti-Semitism needs to be instituted, rapid response protocols for anti-Semitic incidents must be put into place with real accountability, and safe spaces need to be put into place for Jewish students to practice, explore, and celebrate their identity without fear. Most importantly, addressing anti-Semitism requires listening – to Jewish students, to their concerns, and to their complex identities.

Anti-Semitism on college campuses is not an isolated problem – it reflects wider societal tensions. But when anti-Semitism occurs in academic spaces, it undermines the very values these institutions claim to uphold – open inquiry, mutual respect, and intellectual freedom. To truly combat anti-Semitism, colleges must treat it not as a fringe concern but as a core challenge to their mission. 

Sam Sutton

Summer in Deal means one thing: M&S Softball is back, and the 2025 season promises to be its most competitive, content-rich, and exciting chapter yet.

Every roster in the league is packed with ultimate die-hards. This isn’t casual softball. This is M&S – a summer-long battle between competitors who live for the moment and play for legacy.

Lights, Camera, Legacy: M&S Media Coverage

What truly elevates M&S Softball is its unmatched media presence.

Every game is livestreamed – and it’s not just about watching; it’s about being immersed. Co-commissioner Max Sutton leads the live play-by-play with a revolving cast of colorful commentators, bringing sharp insight, unpredictable energy, and off-the-cuff chemistry. Max is as unpredictable as it gets – and that’s what makes the broadcasts unforgettable.

After the final out, the production keeps rolling. High-definition highlight packages drop after every game – edited tight, loaded with emotion, and narrated by the unmistakable cadence of co-commissioner Sam I Am. His energetic professionalism, sharp wit, and ability to turn routine plays into unforgettable moments has made his voice as much a part of the M&S experience as the game itself. Whether it’s a walk-off bomb or a clutch defensive stand, Sam brings it to life like only he can. It’s more than a recap – it’s a retelling. A rewatchable. A moment in motion.

All content lives on the league’s growing YouTube channel: youtube.com/@samiampro.

And for real-time reaction and unfiltered banter? That’s where M&S Smack Talk thrives – a league-wide WhatsApp chat where highlights are shared, opinions are formed, and no moment goes unnoticed.

Carpool Chronicles: Built for the Whole Community

As summer heats up and M&S Softball takes center stage, Carpool Chronicles with Hank continues to be the most talked-about show in community sports media.

Hank Dweck is the cog of the show – the one driving the analysis, the controversy, and the conversation. His takes are sharp, his rankings are bold, and his delivery keeps players locked in and fans talking.

From Day 1, Carpool Chronicles was never just about M&S. It was designed to spotlight all major community leagues – from softball to basketball and everything in between – and it has quickly become the go-to source for authentic commentary, accountability, and banter. While Hank delivers the insight, Sam I Am hosts the ride, teeing up topics, pressing buttons, and guiding the show with the pacing and polish that’s made it one of the most-watched pieces of content in the community. Together, they’ve built something bigger than a recap – they’ve created a voice for the players, the fans, and the culture.

Seven Teams. One M&S Cup. All-In.

The M&S Cup isn’t just a trophy – it’s a piece of league history. Every champion since 2008 is etched into its base. And every player in 2025 wants to be next. Meet the captains and their squads:

Sephardic Bananas – Captain: Edmund Beyda

King Salomon: Part Deux– Captain: Michael “Sabon” Salomon

Stayin’ Alive – Captain: Michael “Melech” Solomon

The Thundering Hooves– Captain: Gabe Abadi

The Long Horns– Captain: Max Yedid

Vandelay Industries– Captain: Sammy Seruya

Kaboom!– Captain: Uri Adler

Each team was drafted with purpose – a mix of veterans, breakout stars, and clutch performers – all with one mission: Lift the Cup!

The full 2025 M&S schedule is now available at www.MandSbaseball.com.

In the heart of our vibrant and close-knit community, we hold fast to traditions that define us: strong family values, a deep sense of responsibility, and a commitment to both spiritual and personal success. These values have helped our community flourish across generations, blending the sacred and the practical with remarkable grace.

As our community continues to grow, so too does the need for purposeful careers – roles that not only support our families but also align with our beliefs, character, and long-term vision. For those who prioritize a balanced life, this harmony is essential: we seek integrity in our work, flexibility in our lives, and the ability to positively impact those around us.

A Career with Purpose and Flexibility

At New York Life, we understand the unique rhythm of a values-driven lifestyle. Personal commitments holidays, and time with family aren’t just “benefits” to accommodate – they are priorities to be honored. That’s why we offer career opportunities that provide the flexibility to uphold your commitments while building a future rooted in financial security and community leadership.

A career as a financial professional isn’t simply about numbers. It’s about building relationships, guiding families through important financial decisions, and becoming a trusted presence in your circle. Many of our top-performing professionals are individuals who have successfully balanced familyand professional achievement.

Why This Career Resonates with Our Values

• Family-Oriented Work: You’ll be helping families safeguard their futures – whether it’s through life insurance, retirement planning, or intergenerational wealth transfer.
• Community-Centered: Your clients are often people you already know and care about. Your integrity and understanding of their needs become key assets.
• Entrepreneurial Spirit: With the freedom to build your own practice, you’re not tied to the conventional 9–5. You control your schedule, your goals, and your impact.
• Legacy Building: Just as we pass down traditions and values, we also pass down financial stability and ethical business conduct. This is a career that honors both.

Support from a Community-Focused Team

We are actively seeking candidates who are passionate about making a difference. As a Managing Partner at New York Life Brooklyn General Office, I understand the importance of balancing personal values with professional growth. I work personally with new professionals to provide mentorship, understanding, and long-term career development.

Whether you’re exploring a new path or looking for a career that aligns with your values, I invite you to consider how a role at New York Life can empower you and those around you. Let’s build something meaningful together – something that honors our past and secures our future. For more information, please contact Managing Partner, David Hoory, dhoory@newyorklife.com, (718) 307-3400.For more information about financial professional income and benefits, please visit www.newyorklife.com.New York Life is an Equal Opportunity Employer.