The older kids are in sleep away camp and most have gotten over the trauma (and expense) of sending them off. Now it’s time to send the little ones to day camp. In my day, day camp meant walking to the YMHA on 14th Ave in Boro Park. more

The 4th of July is the result of the undaunted efforts and unyielding commitment of our American forefathers. They worked through animosity, trepidation and at a great risk to their lives to succeed in establishing this great country.  more

Although it’s been seven years since my youngest has been to sleep away camp, the middle of June always evokes nightmares of “trunk packing.” As the middle of June arrives, I have to remind myself that I don’t have to go through that anymore. Come on, you all know what I’m talking about. Buying, labeling, folding and then the hard part, fitting it all into an oversized trunk and duffle bag. more

A few weeks ago, my son, Daniel graduated from the University of Pennsylvania Law School. The feeling was surreal. As he walked on stage to receive his diploma, I stopped crying just long enough to clap and cheer with our family, as well as the parents of another graduate, whose son was called up earlier. They were so impressively loud that I secured their services to cheer on Daniel when his name was announced. more

Summer. Backyards. Friends and BBQ’s. My favorite time of year. Most will agree that barbecuing is the world’s oldest cooking method. Today we tend to follow in our ancestors footsteps. Our sense of smell leads us to freshly grilled meat, and we eat without utensils or linen. more

Over one hundred thousand people will line the parade route from fifty –ninth to seventy-ninth streets this Sunday as they join the Celebrate Israel parade. Thousands of Israeli flags will be waved enthusiastically by young and old alike. more

Last Wednesday, the house next door to mine was the setting for the upcoming movie, Blood Ties, starring James Caan, Mila Kunis and Clive Owen. My house was used as a rest area in lieu of their trailer, which was parked a few blocks away. more

Shavuot? Already? How is that possible? Didn’t we just put away the last of our Pesach dishes, or, alternatively for some, unpacked our luggage? I’m actually still eating toasted coconut covered marshmallows because my son Jeremy always insists that we have more than enough to last through Pesach. more

While a guest at Rabbi Berel Wein and Rebbetzin Jackie Wein, A”H for Shavuot in 1985, I had the pleasure of enjoying the most delicious homemade challah. more

I can still remember exactly the way “the ice cream man” looked on the beach in Brighton. I loved those beach days way back when. Of course most of you under 35 probably don’t have the same memories of going to the beach as I do. more