Rony and Michelle Havive - Guests of Honor

“If there is one thing predictable about Rony Havive,” says one of his dear friends, “it’s that he’s unpredictable!” “Rony doesn’t play by the book,” adds another. “He works totally on instinct and the guiding hand of G-d.”

And no one would agree with that assessment more than Rony himself! “Honesty…. integrity…. and belief are essential” he explains emphatically. “You’ve got to believe and open the door with emunah (faith) so miracles can happen. Especially when you’re down; that’s when it’s absolutely crucial not to lose bitachon (hope).”

Rony should know. Growing up in Acco, Israel, to immigrant parents from Tunisia, Rony experienced firsthand the challenges of poverty and, at times, subtle discrimination due to his non-ashkenazi background. “My parents were extremely moral and loving people,” he recalls fondly, “and what they couldn’t give us monetarily, they made up with deep-rooted and enduring lessons.”

Rony wells up as he recalls his father’s funeral. “The Mayor of Acco eulogized my father and said that he was the only person who never had any problems or complaints. And that’s coming from someone who spent his days listening to everyone’s grievances.”

“My mother recently told me that we were so poor that the local grocer told my parents that they could continue to shop at his store and not worry about the pay. If, and when, they had it, they could pay for their groceries. Otherwise, it was his honor to feed our family. I think that speaks volumes about my parents’ character and the manner in which they were revered by their townspeople.”

It’s those guiding principles that helped Rony establish himself in a strange land at a young age and it’s those fundamental beliefs that continue to shape his way of thinking and dealing with every day problems. “We recently went through a very difficult time at work. It was extremely taxing on Michelle and me but we managed to keep our heads afloat by believing that everything was happening from G-d and that, in the end, goodness would prevail. And thank G-d, it did!”

Michelle Bechard-Havive is a native South African. When the airline she was working for ceased their operations, they presented her with a book of free tickets for travel around the world. Young, carefree and excited about the opportunity of a lifetime, Michelle began traveling; visiting southeast Asia, Europe and eventually arriving in California. Easy-going, adventurous and animated by personal ethics, she made friends quickly and found life in the Southland exciting and on-the-go.

Shortly after their marriage, the Havives moved to the Agoura community and Rony and Michelle opened a home fragrance décor company. Motivated by an old fashioned veneration of toiling with one’s own hands and complemented by an unfailing commitment to integrity, they built their business the traditional way; one customer at a time. Their unfeigned trustworthiness and astute perception of their clients’ needs won them the loyalty and admiration of top executives and buyers representing some of the leading retail chain stores in the country.

Despite the fact that they are one of the leading fragrance suppliers in the country, Rony and Michelle seem unfazed by the apprehensible headaches and stress that are associated with today’s competitive market. And rather than dwell on his successes, Rony is quick to sing what amounts to his mantra. “Honesty…. integrity…. and belief …… I’m telling you, this is why I am where I am today!”

The Havives support many worthy causes, both here and abroad. Rony and Michelle love the work of Southern California’s City of Hope and they quietly help maintain a soup kitchen in Israel that feeds 250 people daily. They prefer not to discuss most of their charity work as they deem it their responsibility and privilege to give back to those in need and neither seek, nor expect, any recognition for that.

But one organization that they both speak about very passionately is Chabad. Rony reflects on what he considers the “miraculous” outreach work of the organization. “Chabad opens doors where no one else can,” he states ardently. “They open their hearts and attract people—especially Israelis in a non-judgmental fashion.”

“You know Israelis,” he laughs. “They can be a tough bunch sometimes! They have strong opinions and an Israeli’s version of etiquette; well let’s not talk about that. Nevertheless, Rabbi Yisroel and Leah Levine, and Rabbi Shlomo and Tovi Bistritzky, are the most patient people in the world. I often see them explaining to other, less tolerant individuals, that they need to accept and welcome everyone into the Shul, regardless of how they dress or behave.”

“I have a friend who never stepped foot into a Shul in Israel while growing up. Not even Yom Kippur! Can you believe that? Now, thanks to Chabad in Oak Park he’s a regular Shabbos participant. Ironically, for many Israelis, America provides them with their first religious experience and Chabad is at the forefront of making that happen.”

Michelle cites the work of Chabad’s schools, which both their sons, Guy and Ruven, attend. “The Conejo Hebrew High is such a vital ingredient in the raising of a child in today’s times. Our time and ability as parents is limited and our kids – especially our teenagers – need to be exposed to real life lessons centering around values, making the right choices, and understanding the Jew’s obligation to humanity. We’re all delighted that Chabad offers accredited schools that impart these priceless messages.”

Rabbi Yisroel Levine is quick to acknowledge the huge contribution of the Havives. “They are the last people to accept an award. When I thank them for their kindness in helping others, they thank me for the opportunity. They exemplify the words of the Talmud that the poor man does more for the rich man than vice-versa. They are kind, humble, and very generous. I feel so blessed as a rabbi to have Rony and Michelle part of our community. It makes my job of helping families in need so much easier.”

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Bernard and Deborah Warshauer - Guest of Honor

As Chabad of the Conejo celebrates the Dawning of a New Era with a Gala Banquet on June 14, the spotlight will shine on the organization’s longtime friends and supporters, Bernard and Deborah Warshauer. Residents of Calabasas, the Warshauers have a special place in their hearts for the multitudinous programs offered by Chabad.

Bernard vividly recalls the day in 1988 when he was a single dad on a limited budget, and looking to attend services for the High Holidays. “I know it sounds like a typical story; being tight on money and wanting to set an example for my child” he jokes, “but it was true. I called several synagogues and I was either told that the event was sold out or that the only way to get the ticket fee discounted was with the rabbi’s approval. The next day I saw a sign saying “Chabad: Everyone Welcome”.

“I’d never heard of them before, so curiously—and somewhat timidly—I dialed Chabad’s number. Not only did the receptionist assure me that everyone was welcome to join, but when she found out that I was single, she also promised to help me find a shidduch! You couldn’t beat that invitation!”

“The services were very spirited but it wasn’t until December, when I walked into the Oaks Mall and witnessed the amazing Rabbi Shlomo (Bistritzky) entertaining at a Chanukah Festival by balancing ladders and kids on his teeth that I said: “these guys are cool! I can hang with them!”

Gracious, quick-witted, charismatic and a natural businessman, Bernard’s business as a salesman at a floor and window covering company began to flourish. It wasn’t long after this that he opened his own wholesale manufacturing enterprise. Today, Tri-Star Interiors is well-respected and an industry leader in full service floor and window coverings. With a workforce of close to 100 employees, they fabricate and distribute thousands of first quality products, and are on the verge of opening additional locations in Southern California.

After his marriage ended in divorce, Bernard met Deborah Snyder, a UCLA language graduate and Doctor of Oriental Medicine. The couple was married in September, 2008. Intuitive and sensitive, Deborah’s innate, holistic approach to life bequeathed the harmony and stability that would prove indispensable soon after they began their new life together.

It has been said that G-d always presents the cure before the illness. In this case, one might say that fate played a role in a most unusual and unorthodox way when Bernard’s Labrador retriever, Kirby, ran out of their Calabasas home and was picked up by a neighbor. Deborah sped over to pick up the dog but surprisingly found herself in the pleasant company of a wonderful Jewish family.

“I was wondering how long it takes to pick up a dog,” chuckles Bernard, “but when Deb came home several hours later, she also had an invitation to go to Shul and a Shabbat lunch to follow!” The Warshauers were introduced to Young Israel of Calabasas, and discovered a delightfully vibrant community all around them. They forged a close relationship with the Shul families and with Rabbi Jonathan Benzaquen. When the synagogue merged with the more established Calabasas Shul, they continued their weekly attendance and their circle of friends blessedly grew to include Rabbi Yaakov Vann and many new families.

Shortly after their wedding, Deborah was diagnosed with a serious illness that necessitated frequent trips for treatments and doctor appointments. “The community was unbelievable,” recalls Deborah, movingly. “Meals were delivered to our home nightly, prayer services were organized on my behalf and I always had women driving me to appointments and staying with me when Bernard wasn’t able to. I can’t imagine having to face this scary time in our lives without this outpouring of genuine caring and friendship. This is truly the meaning of a Jewish community and our lives are richer because of the love and devotion the greater community has extended.”

Bernard remembers the call he received from a business associate inquiring how he could contact the same service for a relative in need. “I proudly explained that this wasn’t a service for hire, but rather, a group of selfless and dedicated volunteers from our very own, beautiful Jewish community in Calabasas and beyond.”

“I feel so blessed to have found Deborah, whose strength and faith inspire me daily. We have definitely been tested but I realize that G-d was, and is, with us throughout the entire challenging ordeal. And we are so fortunate to have found so many Chabad centers—from Woodland Hills to Agoura and all the way to Ventura—that have guided and encouraged us in so many different ways. When I put on my tefillin every morning or study at the weekly Lunch ‘n Learn, I am filled with gratitude to G-d for His munificent blessings in all areas of my life.”

“When I think back to my rebellious years as a teenager in Brooklyn, and my incessant searching for the meaning of life at ashrams, I am humbled that I found true happiness in my very own religion and in the Torah. And I credit G-d with my success in business, especially at a time when so many others have been hit with tremendous financial setbacks.”

The Warshauers are fiercely proud of their 3 sons from their previous marriages and the strong Jewish identity to which the boys relate . Bernard’s son, Jonathan, is in medical school, just beginning his clinical rotations in Miami, Florida. And Deborah’s sons, Ethan and Noah, attend Calabasas High and Cal State Chico, respectively. All three children attended Chabad Hebrew schools and camps when they were growing up, a factor that has contributed significantly to their continued involvement within the Jewish community. “Noah recently started a chapter of a Jewish fraternity, Alpha Epsilon Pi at Chico and also serves as student president of Chabad there,” smiles Deborah. “Ethan will graduate high school soon and will then spend the next school year studying in Eretz Israel! We are thrilled for him and can’t wait to visit him there this October.”

And they both agree that Chabad’s philosophy of sustained forward progression has allowed them to grow incrementally, at their own speed. Bernard explains: “I remember that first Rosh Hashana service at Chabad in 1988, hearing a story from Rabbi Bryski about a legendary Rabbi Zushe who wasn’t concerned about not attaining the spiritual heights of others. He only fretted about not living up to what was expected of him. Deborah and I try to live our lives by that same axiom. And with our many patient, understanding and loving rabbis, rebbitzens and friends, we continue to make strides in our yiddishkeit as we embrace our heritage and people.”

Rabbi Moshe Bryski couldn’t agree more. “Bernard and Deborah are exemplary models when it comes to faith, optimism and expressing gratitude. While their flooring materials may cover many Chabad centers, their good-naturedness and warm friendship fill our hearts and souls with inspiration.”

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Sammy and Justine Raoof - Young Leadership Award

Chabad of the Conejo will be presenting its first-ever “Young Leadership Award” to Samuel and Justine Raoof at its historic Banquet-Concert celebration at the Four Seasons Hotel. Sammy is the son of Dr. Joseph (Tooraj) Raoof, an eminent and well respected physician in the greater Valley. His mother was the late Miriam Raoof of blessed memory, a luminous tower of kindness and compassion until her untimely passing in 2005.

“Sammy has most definitely inherited his parents’ humility and good-naturedness,” explains Rabbi Shlomo Bistritzky. “At a time when people tend to think of younger folks as the “me generation”, Sammy and Justine are proving quite the opposite to be true. Instead of utilizing their entrepreneurial achievements and successes merely as vehicles for self-indulgence and self-advancement, they use them to help others and to better the society around them. They lead, not by their words, but by their example.”

Sammy and Justine have become a force for good—in the Jewish community and beyond. Whether it’s for Chabad, for children with special needs or for cancer research, volunteering and supporting worthy causes is what gives them the greatest satisfaction. Likewise, hardly a Friday night goes by when they’re not hosting friends and family at their warm and inviting Shabbat table. They are as gracious as they are generous; dedicated as they are industrious.

From their earliest of ages, Sammy and Justine have experienced the good works of Chabad firsthand. As a child, Sammy attended its summer camp and, as a college student, Justine participated in its campus outreach programs. Those formative years have left an indelible impression on them, and they seek to share the beauty of their heritage and lifelong lessons with those around them.

Sammy’s sister, Rebecca, reflects on her brother’s achievements. “Sammy’s is an incredible story—not just of how a young entrepreneur went from tinkering with balms and chemicals in a home garage, turning a cottage industry into a major skin-care company, Neutraderm; but moreover, how a kind soul has kept his values and priorities about him, even as he’s tasted the fruits of success. And how blessed was Sammy to find a partner in life like Justine—a positive and loving “soul-mate” in every sense of the word.”

Rabbi Shlomo adds. “In these challenging times, we are heartened to observe true leadership emanating from the next generation. We at Chabad are grateful that Sammy and Justine are exuberantly working with their friends and business associates to make this evening so memorable and rewarding.”

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