What occurs once in January and again in February, but doesn’t occur again until the summer months of June, July, and August?
Last Month’s Riddle: Time Puzzle
What time is it when it is halfway through the second half of the day? Assume that a day starts and ends at midnight.
Solution: It is 6pm.
Solved by: Sara Smouha, ZR Setton, Abraham Cohen, The Zamis, H. Soleimani, Carol Levy, The Blum Family, and The Shmulster.
Junior Riddle: Shorthand
Submitted by Rena D.
What word becomes shorter when you add two letters to it?
Last Month’s Junior Riddle: Word Riddle
Which word in this sentence is misspelled?
Solution: The word “misspelled,” answering the literal question as to which of the words is the word “misspelled” – the word itself is spelled correctly.
Solved by: Rafi Shabtai, Ronnie Betesh, Michael Levy, Frieda Betesh, Haim S., Carol Levy, Big Mike, and The Blum Family.
Did you know that about one half of American adults suffer from a chronic illness associated with poor nutrition and a lack of physical activity? That translates into about 117 million American adults whose chronic disease could be positively altered by adhering to a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, together with an active lifestyle.
Americans’ S.A.D. dietary choices contribute to cardiovascular diseases, such as heart attacks, high blood pressure, strokes, type 2 diabetes, some cancers, as well as some neurological conditions such as dementia, Alzheimer’s disease, and depression. This is not to be taken lightly. We are talking about life-altering diseases that can be curbed, pushed off, or even completely prevented if we make healthy diet and lifestyle choices.
Some Sad Statistics
Let us honestly consider these statistics: which American can say he is unaffected by this astounding reality? How many spouses, children, siblings, colleagues, or students are one degree away from a relative or peer with a preventable chronic illness? How many people are suffering daily due to poor nutrition and lifestyle choices? How much money is spent on medications and attempted cures, and how much productivity is lost?
Nearly two-thirds of all adults and one-third of children fall into the overweight or obese categories. Hundreds of thousands of youths struggle with weight issues. What will become of a generation that battles rampant health issues from a young age?
Numerous components of this eating pattern contribute to the infamous SAD title. Most importantly, there is overconsumption of foods high in calories and low in nutrients, combined with underconsumption of foods containing sufficient nutrients.
More specifically, the American diet usually does not include enough fresh vegetables, fruits, and whole grains, and includes too many foods that are high in calories, saturated fats, refined grains, sugar, and salt. Put simply, most Americans are eating too much junk food and not enough real food.
The Good News and the Bad News
Yet, on a refreshingly positive note, scientific research shows reasonably strong links between nutritious eating patterns and decrease in the risk of the chronic diseases mentioned above. Moreover, making healthy lifestyle choices leads to an immediate increase in our standard of health and in our productivity.
Specific dietary recommendations by the DGAC (Dietary Guidelines Advisory Committee) include eating more fruits and vegetables, whole grains, low-fat dairy, fish, and nuts, combined with eating less red meat, processed foods, sugar, and refined grains.
But it seems the general population has not taken these recommendations to heart, even though people are aware of the real possibility that they could reverse the likelihood of chronic disease by adjusting their diets. Current trends in national eating patterns over the last decade do not show any major shift away from the SAD diet, and toward healthier eating.
If current research strongly suggests that proper nutrition can have a massive impact on the national burden of chronic disease, why are national dietary trends not changing?
Perhaps the general public lacks knowledge about proper nutrition, and/or has limited access to healthy options. But even with knowledge and access, change is still not guaranteed.
As we know, behavioral changes are tough, especially if done on one’s own. In fact, the DGAC emphasizes the need for a revolution in national health consciousness to permeate every aspect
of society. They call on partnerships between parents, families, schools, food retail, health care institutions, and health providers, in order to create a revolution that will be self-sustaining.
Sounds great.
A Solution: Achdut
Yet, there is still one critical component of this ideal plan that is missing, and that is national unity. Success on a national level is possible only if each member of society feels a sense of responsibility for the well-being of every individual within his shared social strata.
The Jewish people are one nation, and we are unified by our unique essence. The lofty national goals set by the DGAC are actually quite reasonable and attainable for the Jewish community. We are small, organized, creative, and motivated. Furthermore, we have an inherent sense of responsibility for each other. If the DGAC believes in the American public, then all the more so, we can surely believe in our own abilities to create this positive change, thereby adhering to the Torah’s principle of “v’nishmartem me’od l’nafshoteichem” – “And you shall very carefully guard your lives” (Devarim 4,15).
Mordechai Katz has a master’s degree in Human Nutrition and Functional Medicine and is the founder of The Jerusalem Center for Functional Medicine. You can find him at: functionalmedicine.co.il & nutrition@functionalmedicine.co.il.
Career coaches discuss a long list of attributes to strive for when advising clients. Talent is something that can always be developed. Integrity, discipline, and resilience are not discussed often enough, but they are qualities that can certainly impact a person’s trajectory towards a successful career. Clients and coaches always focus on current skills. One strategic question that directly impacts continued success might be, “What skills can be learned next?”
What actually delivers opportunity?
What puts a person in a place of choice?
What moves you towards better earnings and overall success?
The answer, my friends, is SKILLS.
Just as you have legs that move you to a local destination, and a car moves you on longer distance journeys, skills are the vehicle that moves you onward and upward throughout your career. Just as eating creates energy for your body, and putting gasoline or electricity in your car fuels it so it can go, you must continually acquire skills to keep moving forward professionally. Skills fuel your career.
Soft and Hard Skills
There are both hard and soft skills. Some skills that were once important are no longer useful and new ones are continually emerging and demand acquisition because they have become essential to growth in the workplace.
Soft skills are often overlooked, but they are paramount in getting ahead at work. Being able to recognize and manage your own emotions, and your relationships with others is key. Getting along well with others is not only essential for employees; if you run your own business, having people skills allows you to evoke better results from your employees.
The most basic of these soft skills we have learned naturally as a part of growing up. We learned by communicating face-to-face with parents. Then we learned in the sand box, then in school, and then in the larger world. Today, because so much human interaction is done via technology, and so much focus has been lost to staring at a screen, younger adults do not have the requisite experience with face-to-face communication. They must put effort into honing those “people reading” skills, and many do.
You might not know when opportunity will knock, but you can position yourself to take advantage of an opportunity when it does show up.
Communication Skills
Communication skills both oral and written must be constantly upgraded. You can learn in school or on your own.
Listening skills are barely taught but are so valuable. You would be surprised how much insight one can gain just by observing. Reading well-written books may not only improve your vocabulary but can improve how you phrase a sentence as well.
Effective speaking can bring about better results on interviews and will help in getting the results you are looking for on the job. Toastmasters International is a non-profit devoted to improving speaking skills. They have groups everywhere. Those considering an upgrade in verbal communication might consider looking into Toastmasters. Find a group that fits your style and be prepared to learn and enjoy at the same time.
Anything is possible if you have a growth mindset and can commit to being a life-long learner.
Our brains have a wonderful capacity for passive learning. We can pick up skills painlessly through association. We are affected by our surroundings so we can improve by exposing ourselves to excellent influences. Take advantage.
Technology
One cannot speak about skills without mentioning technology. Do not underestimate the continual unfolding opportunities in technology, and not just in e-commerce. A World Economic Forum report stated that by 2025 time spent on tasks by machines and humans will be equal, but that 97 million jobs will be created globally. To remain relevant in an automated world, employees will need learn the skills needed to suit the new technological landscape.
There are some serious skills-building initiatives in the technology sector being promoted by Microsoft, Amazon, and Google. Some are cost free to participants, but you have to be seriously committed. Others have a modest cost.
Google has partnered with Coursera, the online learning platform, to offer Google Career Certificates through self-paced courses in data analytics, project management, UX Design, and IT Support. The program charges a modest $40.00 per month and is self-paced, so depending on your personal timeline it can be a low-cost skills builder that offers a great return on your investment.
I believe that you must strive to thrive.
Get ready to bloom by adding new fuel to your career journey. Information about these programs mentioned above is easily accessible. Look online, read about these programs, and of course, contact PROPEL for guidance and support.
If you are interested in a career, please reach out to PROPEL and we can help you fulfill your professional goals. Call PROPEL at 646-494-0822 or Email: info@thepropelnetwork.org
Last month’s publication was second to none. Every article – from the opening column to the very last column – was a pleasure to read. The cover story about how the Flatbush Community Fund has been assisting our family, friends, and neighbors was truly inspirational. The article about how the Abraham Accords has boosted the demand for kosher cuisine in UAE was very enlightening. It was interesting to read how Ross and Elli Kiel built their kosher food empire in UAE by offering Kosherati cuisine consisting of kugel and other delicacies. It makes me wonder what kind of twist can they put on mecshe to make it sell within her food company. And of course, I just loved Adina Yaakov’s Southwestern chicken salad recipe. Chicken is always a sure winner in my home. It’s the perfect diet food any way you cut it, slice it, or cook it. It’s delicious with vegetables, in soups, salads, or just plain.
Raquel Boujo
Sefirat Ha’omer FAQ
Last month’s article about the Sefirat Ha’omer (Sefirat Ha’omer FAQ) was extremely informative. I learned some halachot that I was totally unaware of. I would also like to point out that our Sages teach us the destruction of The Second Bet Hamikdash came about through baseless hatred, “sinat chinam.” Rabbi Akiva’s students died of a plague because they didn’t show proper respect for each other. What is needed to bring Mashiach is ahavat Yisrael, loving our fellow Jews, and realizing that all Jews have a neshama, Gdly soul, and we are all connected. Through ahavat chinam (real love for each other), we can hasten the arrival of the Mashiach. Amen!
Morris L.
Ten Lost Tribes
The Mashiah Revealed series is one of my favorite columns in your magazine. Last issue’s subject – “Where are the Ten Lost Tribes?” was simply fascinating. Not sure if you are aware – but there are people all over the world claiming they are descended from the ten lost tribes. They are studying Torah, learning Hebrew, keeping the Holidays, and observing Shabbat. These are people who were not raised as children to follow the Torah, but who have recently felt an overwhelming desire to do so. Some have faced ridicule from their friends and family but they persevere. Never in the history of man has there been a group of people like these who have grasped on to the Torah without affiliation to a synagogue or the guidance of a rabbi, much less even knowing a single person who is Jewish.
Raymond A.
Ahi Ezer Library
Last month in the Community Highlights section there was a brief write-up about the Ahi Ezer English Judaica Library. My family and I would like to publicly thank Ahi Ezer for serving our community so graciously for over the past 28 years.
There are no words to properly express our deep hakorat hatov for their service to the whole community and to each family, especially ours.
B”H, we are blessed with a big family and the library caters to all ages and preferences. Some children like the historical novels, some fiction, and all of them enjoy the comics… (the adults too!).
Each book is bound, and many are laminated and it’s a pleasure handling them. Please note that we come every ten days, as my kids devour the books, and the Ahi Ezer library keeps them entertained in a healthy and kosher way. We realize that the yearly membership surely is just a drop in the bucket, and thus we really appreciate all your effort and devotion to keep the library running smoothly and stocking it with the latest titles.
Mrs. Sari Grazi and Mrs. Nancy are priceless. Their devotion and patience are exemplary.
May Hakodosh Baruch Hu bless you with continued success.
May is National Barbeque Month. Kick-start the season by firing up the grill with these easy pesto salmon kabobs. These flavor-packed, flaky salmon skewers take less than thirty minutes to prepare, and the best part is – you can make them all year round by using your broiler indoors. Great as an appetizer, or double the servings to use as the main dish. Brush some extra pesto on your favorite vegetable like corn on the cob to grill along with the kabobs and serve with fresh pita for a simple dinner idea.
Ingredients:
1 cup basil pesto
2 lbs salmon filet, skinned and cubed
2 red bell peppers
12 pearl or small onions
2 lemons
6 wooden skewers
1. If you’re using wooden or bamboo skewers, soak them in water for 30 minutes before using.
2. Wash and remove seeds from bell peppers. Chop into large squares. Peel onions, leaving them whole.
3. Toss salmon pieces, peppers, and whole onions together with pesto in a large bowl. Leave for 20 minutes or cover and refrigerate for an hour until you are ready to grill.
4. Thread salmon cubes and veggies through prepared skewers.
5. To cook outdoors on grill: Arrange salmon kabobs on a medium-heated grill, cover and cook for 6 to 8 minutes, turning them with tongs half way through.
To cook indoors in the oven: Turn the broiler on high and place the top rack about 5 to 6 inches below the broiler. Arrange the salmon skewers on a baking sheet and broil for about 5 minutes on one side, turn over on the other side and broil for another 5 minutes.
6. Serve immediately with lemon wedges.
Pesto:
3 cups fresh, cleaned basil
½ cup olive oil
5 cloves fresh garlic
1 tbsp salt
¼ cup pine nuts
In the bowl of a food processor or blender, combine all ingredients. Blend to a smooth paste and set aside.
“Every student here knows that she is loved and valued. Our goal is to produce a true Bat Yisrael, and prepare her to fulfill her dreams….” Rabbi Raymond Beyda
“Every child that comes through these doors is valued. They become a part of the Ahi Ezer family.”
The Ahi Ezer Yeshiva is a striking landmark on Ocean Parkway and has been dear to our hearts for over 60 years. Approaching Avenue X on my way to visit, the fresh and modern structure immediately caught my eye. The beautifully renovated façade is only a hint of the major transformations taking place within the school.
The renewed, state-of-the-art facility does not only reflect a physical face-lift: the school has quietly been on a growth trajectory for the last half decade, resulting in what we can only call a new school. A dedicated and innovative administration, a top-notch curriculum, and the updated physical environment of the school all play a part in the transformation of this all-girls elementary school.
The administration and leadership of Ahi Ezer Yeshiva Girls’ School are truly visionary.
Enter Rabbi Raymond Beyda
Just over three years ago, Rabbi Raymond Beyda joined the faculty. As Rosh Yeshiva, he became part of the team guiding the school’s newest spiritual and academic journey. As part of this journey, the best members of the existing faculty were joined by skilled young teachers from the community, among them Ahi Ezer alumni returning to give back to their community.
Rabbi Beyda emphasizes, “Every student here knows that she is loved and valued. Our goal is to produce a true bat Yisrael and to prepare her to fulfill her dreams. For this to happen, the child must feel good about herself, excited about learning, and comfortable in her environment.”
Rabbi Beyda’s mission statement is not merely words: it is a guiding principle that is evident in the school’s atmosphere, from the preschool through eighth grade.
Early Childhood Division
The Early Childhood Department, under the direction of Mrs. Rose Lati, lays the foundation. Mrs. Lati describes the goals of her department: “We focus on middot and developmental growth. Our aim is to raise the expectations for students and staff, focusing on core life skills, professional development, and parent involvement.”
With consistent advancements, including additional classes and programs initiated each year to incorporate the input from our families, our early childhood division has been recognized as a first-rate preschool in the community.
For Ahi Ezer, making the students feel loved from the first moment is a goal on par with the educational experience. Morah Bimi, beloved kindergarten teacher, stresses, “Every child that comes through these doors is valued. They become a part of the Ahi Ezer family.”
As in all divisions, the Preschool Department is imbued with a spirit of growth and innovation. In addition to their regular classes, Ahi Ezer Yeshiva now has a toddler program and a weekly Sunday program for girls. And it does not end there! Mommy and Me classes will be starting this September, b’ezrat Hashem, led by Mimi Mizrahi, for children aged nine months to two years. Other plans for the preschool are in store as well, which reflect the forward-looking attitude that permeates this building.
Elementary Division
The Elementary Division is led by Mrs. Golda Winegarten, the Judaic Studies principal. Under her experienced guidance, the Judaic Studies Department has become a model for other schools. The school is recognized as being at the forefront of nation-wide educational ventures.
The school’s Yediot Klaliot, Halacha, and Parasha programs were developed by Mrs. Nina Hidary, after consulting extensively with the principals of leading high schools. Mrs. Winegarten explains, “We wanted to find out what their expectations are for a successful student.” Incorporating skills and general Judaic Studies knowledge, the cumulative curriculum has succeeded impressively. “This program has been sought after by other elementary schools,” Mrs. Winegarten notes.
Another marker of the school’s achievements is the J-SAT test, a placement test taken by hundreds of students from yeshivot and day schools in the New York area. “A significant majority of our students scored above-average in the J-Sat tests,” Mrs. Winegaten states proudly. As a result, she notes, “We have schools fighting over Ahi Ezer Yeshiva graduates!” Clearly, the school’s strong tradition of dedication to growth has led to impressive results.
Nursery roomKindergarten room
Ivrit Programs
The rest of the curriculum is laudable, as well. Mrs. Paz, an acclaimed community educator, spearheads the school’s Ivrit program. In addition to teaching Ivrit B’Ivrit to all grades, Mrs. Paz has created an Honors class for seventh and eighth graders, using a high school curriculum.
Building on their success with the Yediot program, Ahi Ezer is continuing to integrate Lashon HaTorah and Dikduk skills on the demanding level of the COJDS curriculum. They are ahead of the curve, and it is clear that this is just the beginning.
Secular Studies
Mrs. Aliza Beyda is the principal of the Secular Studies Department. She works together with curriculum advisor Mrs. Matalon. Their goal is to prepare students for higher education in every possible way. Here, too, the mantra is to expand in new directions of growth. This includes implementing new courses and teaching methods and staying on the lookout for future additions to the curriculum.
Advanced students in the fifth through eighth grades take part in honors classes for Math and Language Arts. Mrs. Beyda noted, “Astoundingly, this year’s fifth grade honors have touched upon eighth grade-level statistics, while the eighth graders are preparing to ace the ninth grade Regents Exam.” Preparing students to be competitive in today’s world means including advanced computer skills. Beginning in fifth grade, students learn the basics of using a computer, typing skills, and essential programs like Microsoft Word, Excel, and Outlook.
Another program that is critical to helping students achieve future success is the STEM program, which integrates science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. Through this stimulating curriculum, students develop scientific literacy and critical thinking skills. Ahi Ezer is preparing the next generation of innovators.
Supplemental courses include Sephardic History, which provides students with an understanding of their rich heritage and instills pride in their community, tracing 3,000 years of the Sephardic heritage through photos and artifacts. In another popular course, a teen-mentor visits the seventh and eighth grades to present classes in self-confidence, social skills, emuna, and Hashkafa/Torah outlook. These invaluable weekly lessons provide the almost-graduates with the self-esteem and skills vital to handling life’s challenges, readying them for their future roles as wives, mothers, and pillars of our community. New this year is a class called the Eternal City, during which eighth graders brush up on their skills by researching the history and archaeology of Jerusalem!
Lined up for Fall 2021 is a multi-faceted healthy living program, including nutrition education and physical education. To spice things up, each month the school will invite well-known Syrian chefs into their new state-of-the-art kitchen. These guests will demonstrate techniques for preparing healthy meals and desserts.
Ahi Ezer Weathers COVID
In March of 2020 Ahi Ezer’s combination of love and professionalism stood them in good stead when NYC shut down. The previous month, with COVID still distant on the horizon, the Ahi Ezer principals foresaw the possibility of a lockdown. They started preparing for remote schooling – just in case. As a result, the school was able to spring into action as soon as the pandemic struck. Distance learning began almost immediately, and teachers helped students fill the long hours after Zoom School with weekly art classes, voluntary Parasha and Tehillim time, and a nightly teacher-hosted program nicknamed “Ahi Ezer Live!”
There was more: drive-through events, packages full of toys and games, the annual bat mitzvah presentation, and a surprise graduation trip – think hand-delivered souvenirs. There was a café-style breakfast and barbeque dinner, a virtual DC tour, and a Zoom Escape Room game. Amazingly, even during a pandemic, Ahi Ezer was creating fond memories. By the time in-person learning resumed, it was clear the school had pulled off a virtual miracle.
Making Everyone Feel Comfortable
Sometimes it is the smallest things that make a difference, such as a principal greeting students as they walk into school, or on-site babysitting services for the faculty. This attention to detail is especially visible in every aspect of the building’s renovations.
Student comfort is paramount at Ahi Ezer. The brightly lit, color-coordinated classrooms feature brand-new furniture and colorful, self-healing cork boards. The cubbies and hooks take students’ ease into account, in different sizes and heights according to the needs of their littlest and biggest members. Teacher cabinets neatly line the tops of the cubbies, providing a spacious area for educational resources. The new student restrooms could rival those at a wedding hall. Walls and floors throughout the school provide various types of atmospheres: impressive marble walls and glass portraits of Sephardic rabbis grace the entrance; warm, trendy tones with a pop of color and textured wallpaper are just right for the elementary students; and exciting-colored tiles brighten up the preschool. Teachers and staff are getting used to the reactions: parents will routinely comment that they feel like they have walked into a new school. And they are right!
From the play-yard to doors to windows, the transformed building is beautiful. The visionary new Board of Directors – Mr. Bunny Escava, Mr. Joe Indibo Cohen, Mr. Harry Adjmi, Rabbi Raymond Azrak, Mr. Victor Bibi, Mr. Gabe Khezrie, Mr. Eddie Mizrahi, and Mr. Zuki Jradeh, as well as tireless administrator Rabbi Elly Dayan, take pride in the renovations they helped to facilitate. One board member explained his motivations behind the school’s changes: “When our little girls come into school, they are little princesses, when they graduate, they are queens.”
Board Members Speak Up
Board member Rabbi Raymond Azrak says, “We have tremendous hakarat hatov to Hakadosh Baruchu for the incredible siyata dishmaya, Divine assistance, in the growth of Ahi Ezer in recent years.”
Other board members weigh in on the conversation. “I’ve noticed the teachers and principals are stronger than ever and have more knowledge to make the school great,” says Mr. Bunny Escava, president of the school board for 40 years. “The love they have for the students is beyond belief.”
Mr. Harry Adjmi refers to the school as humble, explaining why the school’s transformation has taken place mostly behind the scenes, out of the limelight. He notes that the administration does not veer from its main focus: “To educate good, respectable girls in our community.”
Mr. Gabe Khezrie comments, “Being a graduate of Ahi Ezer myself, it warms my heart to see the school striving and succeeding in every aspect.” He credits the dedication of Mr. Joe Cohen and the new board members as the driving force behind the tremendous success each and every student is achieving.
“Ahi Ezer Yeshiva has come leaps and bounds in terms of academic excellence, cutting-edge extra-curricular programs, and student enrollment,” says Amy Setton, business office director. “I have seen firsthand the changes made at our school and I am truly proud to be part of the Ahi Ezer family. I call it a hidden gem in an ancient treasure known as Ahi Ezer Yeshiva.”
New Look, Same Values
While the building looks and feels new, Ahi Ezer’s trademark for decades has been its warmth. The school retains its signature family atmosphere, even as the staff and curriculum have grown. The new Ahi Ezer is a synthesis: the commitment to education with love has never wavered, it has just been combined with new creative and effective educational tools.
Rabbi Raymond Beyda reiterates the school’s objective. “We are an institution with a long history of tradition, perfecting the education of our children so that they can fulfill their dreams and become anything that they want to be.”
The Rabbi’s ambition is shared by the entirety of the school’s team, encompassing the Hebrew and English departments, administration, and board. Together, they are making it all happen.
Where is Ahi Ezer heading next? With the forward-thinking perspective that permeates the school nowadays, the sky is the limit.
Modern classrooms
Bright facilities
For inquiries, or to tour the school, please call 718.648.6100. To stay updated you can also follow Ahi Ezer @ahiezerpreschool and @ahiezeryeshiva.
In the past we discussed the human side of real estate. Many times, people view real estate only as a business transaction but there is actually a lot of emotion involved. Someone recently asked me how I went from being a Special Ed therapist working with kids to a business focused job. I told them I find so much fulfillment and emotional connection to the clients. That is what I enjoy. Previously, we discussed the agent’s perspective. Now I would like to look at it from the landlord-tenant perspective. Though each situation is different and unique, and one must know the entire picture, I have some tips below that will hopefully help to smooth the path.
Too often the relationships between landlords and tenants are strained. The first thing to always keep in mind is that they are all human. People slip up and are not always perfect. Just kindly explain the issue and almost always the landlord and renter will quickly resolve it. The other person is not trying to hurt or annoy you. Speak calmly and do not be so quick to blame is my advice. A smooth landlord-tenant relationship is a small piece of heaven!
Tips for the Landlord
Here is some advice that I love for landlords to ensure a smooth rental.
Keep the property in good condition. Everyone wants good tenants and having a clean and nice rental will attract them. In addition, once you have the apartment, continue to maintain it. It is a lot easier keep your current renters. It is not only very time consuming to find new renters but also is quite expensive.
Availability is important. Try to be available to your tenants. You never know when they will need help. If you do not live in the area or cannot be available think about hiring someone else to help manage your rental.
I like to tell landlords to put into the lease a provision that allows the tenant to take care of any active leak or true emergency costing up to $100, and they can work it out the money later. All too often I hear about a renter who had a leak and could not get in touch with the landlord and did not want to fix a problem in case he would not get compensated. The leak then ends up getting a lot worse and costing the landlord a lot more money than had it been dealt with promptly.
Respect your tenant’s privacy. Though you may have to go in to fix things or for other valid reasons, please remember this is where the tenants live, and they deserve privacy.
Document everything. Do not rely on verbal agreements. A good landlord will ensure that everything in the lease is clearly spelled out. This is for the benefit of both parties. It is especially important to avoid vague clauses like the renter will “maintain property” for a discounted price. What is “maintain property”? Be specific and write it down!
Getting Your Home Ready for the Hot Summer Months
For those of you staying in town this summer, here is some tips to upgrade your living space for that warm summer ahead.
Upgrade your outdoor space. There is nothing like sipping an iced tea while watching your kids play on a long summer day. Make sure your outdoor space is inviting and comfortable. Invest in a chair or two or maybe even an umbrella, outdoor furniture, or a patio set depending on your budget.
Brighten up your home. Switch out heavy throws for light airy ones. Bring home a nice indoor plant or switch that black throw pillow for a bright colored one. Bring the summer into your home. There’s plenty of time in the winter for dark jeweled tones. Now’s the time to bring out those yellows, pinks, and greens.
Take the time now to make sure your AC is in working order. Don’t wait for that boiling June day and realize your AC is not working. Check the filters, hoses, and organize the garage.
And if your kids are going to be home, stock up on some summer fun. Bubbles, balls, jump ropes, frisbees, and so on.
Everyone loves a good story with a happy ending, especially if there is a little tension and resolved uncertainty. Here is part of our community’s history that will make some nostalgic, and will open others’ eyes to the breaking history that began back in the 1970s. Like much of Jewish history, our real stories are even better than fiction!
“I am not the type of Rabbi that your congregation wants,” was the Rabbi’s adamant response. The group awaiting the Rabbi’s answer was taken aback. Although he had been part of Young Shaarei Zion for the past decade, the Rabbi had just announced that he was heading back to Israel, dashing their hopes and aspirations.
Shaarei Zion is home to several minyanim each Shabbat. The Dome, as the main sanctuary is commonly called, is located on the ground floor of the building and seats 400 congregants, while Young Shaarei Zion was situated on the lower level in the social hall. Hacham Baruch, zt”l, officiated frequently at the Shabbat morning prayers, and Hacham Yosef Harari Raful led the minyan for the Yamim Nora’im and other times when Hacham Baruch was upstairs in The Dome.
Hacham Yosef Drops a Bombshell
In the summer of 1975, Hacham Yosef suddenly announced that he was ending his career in New York and was returning to Israel. He had set down roots in the Syrian community of Brooklyn, where he taught in a local high school and delivered a class on Shabbat afternoon, and his wife’s family, the Dayans, were prominent leaders in the neighborhood. Nevertheless, Hacham Yosef felt he was not accomplishing what he had set out to do, and he was determined to begin anew in Eretz Yisrael.
The announcement came as a surprise. Ezra Raful, Hacham Yosef’s son, was away in camp for the summer when he was told that he had to return home two weeks early because the family was moving to Israel. “I remember how disappointed he was,” says his cousin Rabbi Aharon Raful. “We were enjoying an exciting summer together, and suddenly he had to go home.” Back in Brooklyn, Ezra would cry on the stairs in front of his house, bemoaning his fate.
A Bold Request and a Bold Answer
Hacham Baruch notified his congregants that he was needed each week in The Dome and would no longer be able to join them Shabbat morning. At a seudat preidah for Harav Raful, the congregants decided to try one last time to convince him not to abandon them. “In hindsight, we were quite bold making such a request,” says Ezra Erani, one of the congregants who attended that goodbye party. “The Rabbi was all packed and ready to board the plane, and here we were, asking him to change his plans. Rabbi Raful did not seem interested in our proposal and basically rejected it out of hand. But as we persevered, he looked us in the eye and set down some difficult tena’im, conditions, under which he would reconsider.”
The Siyum of Masechet Berachot attended by the Rabbanim of the community.
“If I am to stay, you must agree to accept my word as law, whatever it may be,” Hacham Yosef said forcefully. “You can decide what danishes to provide,” he quipped, “but everything else must be my decision, and you must abide by it. If you are ready to commit to that, I am ready to remain and serve you b’lev u’vanefesh, with my heart and soul.” After considering it overnight, the members of Young Shaarei Zion agreed, and they now had a new Rabbi and a watershed moment.
Harav Chaim Aharon Weinberg, zt”l, with Hacham Yosef.
Whirlwind Changes
Changes followed almost immediately. “We cannot have a successful kehillah without a daily minyan,” Hacham Yosef said. Although the members felt it was impractical, they had given their word and they organized it. Two weeks later, another directive was given. “We must have a shiur before Shaharit,” he said. “We will quicken the pace of the prayers and spend 20 minutes learning.” This was in line with the passuk in Mishlei (28:9) that states, “One who turns away his ear from hearing Torah, his prayers are also an abomination.” The surprises did not end. “We will be learning gemara, starting with Masechet Berachot,” he said, overruling their protests that perhaps Chumash or halachah may be more appropriate. “My mission is to burn out the am haaratzut from the community. You are all capable of becoming talmidei chachamim, and we will reach this goal together!”
The early morning class began with just seven people. Shortly afterward, Hacham Yosef added a Wednesday evening class in which he taught another perek of the masechta. He would read, translate, and explain each word, patiently guiding his students on their path to becoming proficient. The shiur included active participation, where each member of the class got involved in the give-and-take of the learning. Before long, they were learning not just Rashi and Tosafot, but adding Rishonim such as the Rif, Rabbeinu Yonah, and the Rambam as well. The 20-minute shiur now spanned an hour, as the participants longed to absorb as much as they could.
After a year and a half, the shiur completed the entire Masechet Berachot. Rabbi Raful insisted they make it a communal celebration. “We had a gala meal with music and dancing, and all the Rabbanim and dignitaries of the community came,” Ezra Erani recalls. “They had never experienced such a joyous occasion, and neither had we. It made a tremendous impact, and as we began Masechet Shabbat, more classes led by more Rabbanim were added.” Harav Asher Hachuel, shlita, taught a class for beginners, which attracted an ever-growing group of newcomers.
Limud Torah Surges – Not Only for the Men
When Hacham Yosef felt the kehillah was ready for another innovation, he introduced Torah learning to the Shabbat morning minyan. His students, who were growing by leaps and bounds, were to become the teachers for the rest of the congregants as they learned hilchot tefillah. During the week, Hacham Yosef would make sure they knew the material, and after kriat haTorah, they would break up into small groups and teach the halachot to the others. Success breeds success, and before long the members began coming in to learn on Shabbat afternoon as well to increase their limud haTorah.
While Hacham Yosef was pleased with the growth in Torah of the men, he knew that this revolution must include the women of the community as well. Sparing no effort, he retained Rebbetzin Zahava Braunstein, a”h, to deliver classes for the women, and she became their role model. She taught a class every Monday night in Congregation Bnei Yosef, while Rabbi Raful taught the men in another room.
As the new minyan expanded to include 20 families and continued to attract new ones, they moved to new quarters, eventually renting their own building. The small group was now its own kehillah, and Hacham Yosef knew it was time to take it to a new level. True, learning Torah every morning and on Shabbat was impressive, but his goal was to create a kehillah of talmidei chachamim. The time was ripe to open a kollel, which would lay the groundwork for the crowning glory of their new community: the founding of Yeshiva Ateret Torah.
Enter Rabbi Chaim Aharon Weinberg
Hacham Yosef speaking with his brother-in-law, Rabbi David Ozeri.
In preparation for its opening, Rabbi Raful searched for the right mechanech to lead the school. He zeroed in on Rabbi Chaim Aharon Weinberg, zt”l, a talmid of Yeshivas Telshe who was embarking on his career in chinuch. As a Vizhnitzer Chassid, Rabbi Weinberg would not make such a move without the consent of his Rebbe, and Rabbi Raful went along with him to Monsey to discuss his plans with Harav Mordechai Hager, the Vizhnitzer Rebbe of Monsey, zy”a. After hearing his plans and seeing his devotion, the Rebbe advised Rabbi Weinberg to accept the job and gave his berachah. Yeshiva Ateret Torah was now a reality.
In September 1980, the yeshiva opened with a pre-1A class of 22 boys, with Rabbi Weinberg serving as the Rebbi and Menahel. Nothing was beyond his purview as he provided the families with transportation, lunches, and of course a large dose of caring as the youngsters began their ascent. In 1982, Bet Yaakov Ateret Torah opened for the girls of the community. When the high school opened in September 1990, Rebbetzin Braunstein, who had taught the mothers of the girls for many years, became its principal. The administration sought the best Rebbeim and teachers, and the students performed beyond expectation.
Yeshiva Ateret Torah and Affiliated Institutions Find Permanent Homes
The school and the minyan were outgrowing their quarters, and a search began for a lot on which to build a permanent home for Yeshiva Ateret Torah. When a large parcel on Quentin Road and East 9th Street was put on the market, they hurried to put a down payment on it, generously provided by the philanthropist Mr. Ellis Safdeye, a”h. The deal was sealed, and plans were drawn to construct the building. Construction began in 1985 and was completed prior to the 1986-1987 school year. Bet Yaakov Ateret Torah occupied several locations, finally settling into their new campus on Coney Island Avenue in 2006.
Metivta Ateret Torah opened its doors in September 1989, and the Bet Medrash started in 1993. In order to maximize their growth, the metivta joined Camp Morris, the summer home of Yeshivas and Mesivta Rabbeinu Chaim Berlin, where the talmidim had the opportunity to spend the summer months immersed in an atmosphere of Torah among bnei Torah. Eventually, several families of the Ateret
Torah community decided to spend their summers at Camp Morris, which prides itself as the host for these serious bnei Torah.
Appreciating the Transformation
The Ateret Torah community is flourishing, and its success has influenced the associated Syrian shuls to undertake similar upgrades in their programs. “Although I have been a member of Ateret Torah for 45 years, and I haven’t prayed in Shaarei Zion for some 30 years, I recently had an early morning meeting which brought me to Shaarei Zion one morning for Shacharit, and I couldn’t believe my eyes!” admits Ezra Erani. “Upstairs, downstairs, wherever you looked, there were people sitting and learning Torah before Shacharit. There wasn’t an empty seat to be found! If you enter Shaarei Zion in the evening, you will find hundreds of children participating in the ‘Bring a Buddy’ program, where young boys sit and learn Torah with a havruta. There are tables set up throughout the building, which is filled to capacity. And to think that when this all began, no one but Hacham Yosef believed that the community was capable of becoming lomdei Torah on a high level!”
In order to truly understand the transformation that took place, one must look back at the belief that was commonly held, even by those who championed the Syrian community a half century ago, that the Syrian community was not ripe for strict observance of Torah law and the creation of a core of talmidei chachamim.
Mr. Isaac Shalom was one of the laymen who worked tirelessly to build institutions for the Syrian community in Brooklyn and almost single-handedly created Magen David Yeshivah, the flagship school, which today boasts over 2,000 students. In 1945, when he became aware of the downward spiral of the Sephardic communities in Morocco, Egypt, and other Middle Eastern lands, he recruited Harav Avraham Kalmanowitz, zt”l, the Rosh Yeshiva of the Mirrer Yeshiva, to travel to these countries and organize schools for the children.
Yet when Hacham Yosef discussed the prospect of raising the level of Torah scholarship in the Syrian community in Brooklyn, Mr. Shalom was pessimistic. “In a business-oriented community like ours,” he said, “I don’t think we can cultivate talmidei chachamim. We should look to Eretz Yisrael to provide us with Rabbis and teachers for our institutions.”
Even Harav Kalmanowitz, who worked tirelessly to provide authentic Torah education for the children and young prospects of the Sephardic communities in the Middle East, was doubtful that Rabbi Raful’s mission would succeed, despite his own burning desire to spread Torah worldwide.
Hacham Yosef’s Determination Bears Fruit
Yet, Hacham Yosef was not deterred. He was convinced that Hashem would never abandon His nation and believed the potential existed for every one of his community members to become a talmid hacham.
“If we do our own mesirut nefesh and we work l’shem Shamayim, Hashem will give us the siyatta diShmaya to raise generations of our own bnei Torah. We can do it,” he believed. “I am certain we can.”
Today, 46 years after that fateful day when the members of Young Shaarei Zion agreed to the conditions set down by Hacham Yosef Harari Raful, zt’l, his dream has come to fruition. The positions of Rabbanim, melamdim, and other klei kodesh of the Ateret Torah community are filled with graduates of Yeshiva Ateret Torah.
Adapted from an article that originally appeared in The Inyan – The Hamodia Weekly Magazine.
Many parents feel defeated throughout the course of their parenting career because they find themselves in situations that are the exact opposite of what they had hoped for. For example, Mrs. Cohen is raising her children with hopes that she is really teaching them to be nice to their siblings. A few years in, she begins to notice that more often than not the children are yelling and screaming at each other in condescending ways. She is wondering how this even came about if there is nothing more in the world she wants than for her children to be kind to each other. Since they were very young, she always made a point to read them books about respect, and tell them all sorts of stories about the importance of being kind to one another.
What Mrs. Cohen is not realizing here is that she is allowing a different goal to take precedence over the goal of teaching respect. She has mistakenly been acting as if what is most important when challenges arise, is that things turn out exactly the way she wants them to. The children have been getting a hidden message that in life it is important to have what I want right now. If she is talking down to them in order to get them to stop doing what they are doing, the message is: my mother is modeling how to get what she wants at any cost. That is what they will believe is the goal in their interactions with their siblings.
If, however, she is mindful that her goal is to model for her children that everyone needs to be treated with respect, then she will speak to them in that way knowing that modeling is the best way to teach anything.
Can you imagine what would happen if you were using a GPS to try to get somewhere but did not put the destination on the GPS? You would not be so shocked to know that the GPS was just taking you anyway it wanted. But if you put your goal, your destination, on the GPS and you simply go off course, you do not need to worry because the GPS knows what the destination is, and you simply need to just get back on track.
When you are engaging with your child in a difficult interaction, ask yourself what your goal is. I like to think that some of my goals are to raise children who know that everybody is important and deserves to be treated with respect, that any challenge that gets sent my way is uniquely designed for me as an opportunity for growth, and that I have all the tools I need inside of me to get through any challenge in life.
Most often, when people are disappointed about the way things are panning out with their children it is because their methods of parenting are not aligned with their values. Ask yourself what your goals are in raising your children and then create methods that correspond to that. Unlike the goyim, we don’t have to guess our way through life. The Torah maps out for us exactly how to think, how to live, and how to be in relationships. All we need to do is take that information and use our unique talents to apply that to our family lives.
So next time your children are screaming so loud that you can barely hear yourself think, look ahead 20 years and ask yourself what you want your children to have remembered about solving life problems from that interaction.
“It makes me happy to see people being happy. I am passionate about family, learning Torah values, listening to good music, and giving my followers easy cooking tips. I am exactly where Hashem wants me to be.”
~~ Kay Robyn ~~
I was thrilled to interview food maven Kay Robyn Ashkenazi, née Mizrahi. Kay Robyn is easy-going, vivacious, and fun-loving. She is a people person and a family person. She is has been crowned “the air-frying queen” and is known for her blog, @Kaysinthekitchen. A woman of many passions who is highly spiritual, she trusted me with her life story.
The wheel came full circle when I met Kay Robyn.
Family Connections
Kay Robyn’s mother, Eileen Mizrahi, the creator of Treats by Eileen Gourmet Granola, was the second community woman I interviewed for the Woman to Woman column in 2017. Eileen is now a dear friend.
Next to be interviewed was Kay Robyn’s cousin, June Aboksis, the founder of Junee, the leading provider of modest clothing for girls and women. Closely following June’s interview was my next candidate, Cindy Antebi, Kay Robyn’s sister, who was featured in September 2018. Scheduling my talk with Cindy, I did not realize that she was Eileen Mizrahi’s daughter. Cindy is the owner of Oakhurst’s iconic candy, toy, and stationery store, Sylvia’s Sweet and Stationery Shoppe. She is also an Executive Board member of The Tawil Family Jersey Shore Branch of Sephardic Bikur Holim.
Gloria Bijou, the first woman I interviewed for Community, connected me with Cindy. Gloria and her husband Fred, along with Dr. Robert Matalon and his wife Barbara, founded SBH in 1973. SBH is the foundation of hesed and charity in our community.
Let’s get back to Kay Robyn, a bubbly and caring woman who derives tremendous joy from making other people happy. As her followers and friends say, there is only one Kay Robyn.
Growing Up
As Kay Robyn told me about her childhood, I thought about what a beracha it is to have a lighthearted and spirited nature. Kay Robyn’s exuberance and positive energy can be traced to her roots and to her family role models. “My parents are warm and loving. They are the best and helped me get through life’s challenges.”
Kay Robyn was born in Brooklyn to Eileen and Marty Mizrahi, both native New Yorkers of Syrian descent. Kay Robyn’s sister, Cindy, is two years older. The Mizrahis were one of the first families to move to Deal, when Kay Robyn was 18 months old, She studied at Hillel Yeshiva from kindergarten through high school. Kay Robyn is very close with her sister and knows she can always reach out to Cindy and her mother and father for whatever she needs.
A spontaneous, friendly, and genuine child, Kay Robyn also described herself as a mediocre student but a great note taker. Her parents called her a “free spirit.” As a tomboy, Kaye Robyn was athletic and excelled at sports, including tennis. Since her dad had no sons, it was Kaye Robyn who lovingly watched all the sports games with him. Tall for her age, Kaye Robyn was outgoing and loud, often accidentally putting her foot in her mouth. Cherishing her crew of childhood friends, Kay Robyn still meets up with them every summer in New Jersey.
“As a tween and teen, I was a bit funky, very colorful, always had fashion style, and was ahead of the trends. I also loved music.”
High School and On
A fun fact: Kay Robyn did not know Robyn was her middle name until she applied for a learner’s permit to drive. “I always thought Kay Robyn was my first name. Kay was my maternal grandmother’s name and my dad liked the name Robyn.”
After high school, Kay Robyn attended Brookdale Community College and studied communications, following her #1 goal to be on the radio. After college, she “tested the waters” and worked in marketing, advertising, and retail sales, searching for her sweet spot. Kay Robyn’s people skills and authentic friendliness enabled her to easily succeed in these jobs. “I am that person who talks to everyone, including the people on line at a supermarket or a bank.”
Kay Robyn confessed that although she appears to be very confident, she is actually “strong but sensitive.” Before falling asleep at night, Kay Robyn plays back her day to see where she can better herself. A true empath, people tell her she would make a great psychotherapist. Both Kay Robyn and Cindy acquired their natural inclination towards kindness and hesed primarily from their mother. They learned about business from both of their parents.
Then Comes Marriage
While Kay Robyn was looking for the right job fit, she was fortunate to meet her naseeb, Shay Ashkenazi, a spiritual and modest Israeli man of Syrian descent. Kay Robyn expressed her immense hakarat hatov to Odette Rishty, Shay’s cousin Franny, and other community shadchanim, for making the match. Kay Robyn is open about getting married only at 28, a bit older than the average Syrian girl. “I tried out different jobs, yearned to be a radio person, but more importantly, I wanted to settle down and have a family.” The couple have two girls and a boy, who study at Sharei Torah and Ateret Torah, respectively. “I have the best of both worlds. I grew up in Deal and moved to Brooklyn when I married Shay.”
When her children were young, Kay Robyn was a stay-at-home mom, but she always made time to do hesed. “First and foremost are my family and home life. I have learned that hesed begins at home and one has to save their own bayit first.”
Kay Robyn’s spirituality continues to flourish. Her children were raised without TV and Wi-Fi and were encouraged to play with blocks and to build things.
Not surprisingly, Kay Robyn’s professional role model was Judi Franco Chalme, a community member and radio host on NJ.105. Kay Robyn’s religious role model is Rebbetzin Molly Haber. Kay Robyn takes classes at the Avenue J Torah Center and listens to LearnTorah.com while she bakes. “I have never burned a batch while listening to Rabbi Joey Haber, Rebbetzin Molly’s son. It’s important to have doses of Torah and Hashem by your side in addition to tefillah.”
Kay Robyn became a substitute teacher, and was an assistant playgroup morah at Barkai Yeshiva for four years. She adored her students. Kay Robyn also worked with children in camps and Shabbatons.
@Kaysinthekitchen is Born
As you recall, Kay Robyn dreamed of becoming a radio host. Her dreams and passions came to fruition with @kaysinthekitchen.
About four-and-a-half years ago, Kay Robyn began her journey as the “air-frying queen.” Air fryers have become one of the trendiest cooking devices and are hailed as the next Instant Pot. Manufacturers invented air fryers as a more healthful way to cook deep-fried foods, using only a fraction of the oil required by deep fryers. The added bonus was the far lower calorie count. Kay Robyn was dieting and working with Eve Elenhorn of FlavorfulFIT.
About the same time, Kay Robyn won a local Kosher Chopped competition hosted by Naomi Nachman. She landed the prize of a free class at The Kosher Culinary Center.
With @Kaysinthekitchen, Kay Robyn entered a new phase of her career, in food services. “Growing up, my mom was very food-oriented, started her own granola business, and I always loved to bake.”
Getting the Word Out in Her Unique Way
Kay Robyn developed an outlet to share stress-free cooking tips, stories, and demos with women on her Instagram blog, @kaysinthekitchen. She does this in “a kosher and unique way.” Kay Robyn asserts, “Life is hard, and I offer quick and easy tools. I use Instagram but don’t abuse it. At 47, I’m doing what I want to do, talking to my followers and helping them make healthy and fun meals.”
Kay Robyn’s family is very proud of her blog. There are, however, moments when her kids exclaim, “Mom, we want to eat dinner, can you please stop taking a video of the food?!”
Before the pandemic, Kay Robyn added a new skill set. She partnered with large kosher food companies, arranging demo tables with food tastings in kosher supermarkets and at KosherFest events. Kay Robyn aspires to become a spokesperson for a Jewish kosher food brand and to start a podcast one day soon.
Kay Robyn also sells homemade clean gluten free cookies.
Community
Kay Robyn feels blessed to be in her community. “There is so much positivity, love, and hesed in our community; it becomes your family.”
Her sister Cindy is in awe of Kay Robyn’s commitment to helping people and calls her a humble superwoman. I met Kay Robyn when she was the MC at a Challah Bake sponsored by MOMS (Moms on a Mitzvah). She is a team member of MOMS, founded by Linda Sadacka in 2013. MOMS is a group of mothers who make hesed their mission by weaving it into their daily lives. Kay Robyn looks forward to more hesed opportunities. To relax, she listens to music and dances, having taken ballet as a child.
Kay Robyn’s Parting Advice
I leave you with a life tip from Kay Robyn. “Be natural. Don’t be afraid to be yourself. Just be you and you will succeed.”
Connect with Kay Robyn by phone (718-810-0008), email kayrobyn.ash@gmail.com or on Instagram @kaysinthekitchen.
Ellen Geller Kamaras, CPA/MBA, is an International Coach Federation (ICF) Associate Certified Coach. Her coaching specialties include life, career, and dating coaching. Ellen works part-time as an entitlement specialist at Ohel Children’s Home and Family Services. She can be contacted at ellen@lifecoachellen.com (www.lifecoachellen.com).
