Community Happenings

The Jewish Home | SEPTEMBER 8, 2022 Around the Community

A New Zman at Yeshiva Darchei Torah

Photos by MHB

Rav Shlomo Avigdor Altusky, Rosh Yeshiva, individually greeting the talmidim of Yeshiva Darchei Torah’s Beis Medrash Heichal Dovid on the first day of Elul zman. Rav Yaakov Bender, Rosh HaYeshiva, greeting talmidim on Yeshiva Darchei Torah’s first day of elementary school classes, last Thursday morning.

Talmidim of Mesivta Chaim Shlomo on the first day of the zman Rav Avrohom Nusbaum, menahel, addressing the talmidim of Mesivta Chaim Shlomo on the first day of the zman

A glimpse inside the beis medrash of Yeshiva Darchei Torah during the first week of the zman Rav Yaakov Bender, Rosh HaYeshiva, Yeshiva Darchei Torah, in conversation with Rav Shloime Eisen and Rav Meir Safdieh, maggidei shiur, at Mesivta Chaim Shlomo

The Jewish Home | SEPTEMBER 8, 2022 The Kol Torah is Growing

Mercaz Academy Opens Its Doors

The new zman started this week at Yeshiva Kol Torah in Inwood with an impressive group of talmidim enrolled and shteiging in ninth and tenth grade. With new rebbeim and newly expanded classrooms, this second year promises to be even better than the first.

Rain couldn’t dampen the enthusiasm of students and staff at the newly minted Mercaz Academy on a day of firsts. On Tuesday, September 6, the school opened for its first day of classes ever as Mercaz Academy, the newly independent Jewish day school in Plainview, Long Island. As they were welcomed into the school, students, staff, and parents danced to live music and posed for photographs memorializing the first day of school as well as their positions as the first classes ever at Mercaz.

New beginnings call for a ribbon-cutting ceremony, and each class, represented by a student new to the Plainview campus, used the ceremonial scissors to cut its own ribbon, opening the gateway to a new year of study and to launch the new school.

“Mercaz has prioritized and expanded its educational offerings from our predecessor,” explained Rabbi Kalman Fogel, principal of Mercaz Academy. “We’ve created a new position of assistant principal for general studies and we’re intensifying instruction of Hebrew language, while increasing our focus on educational technology, our resources for students who are non-typical learners, and physical education, among many other new initiatives.”

“We’re not at all surprised by all the spirit at our opening celebration,” added Gary Katz, chairman of the school’s Board of Trustees. “Parents have responded so enthusiastically to our new school and our innovations, and our enrollment from preschool through sixth grade has increased substantially. We even have a waiting list for enrollment.” Students of families attending Mercaz Academy span a wide spectrum of religious affiliation and levels of family observance, and come from 18 different communities in central Long Island. “Many of our students began their education in public school, but chose our day school for its nurturing atmosphere and educational excellence. Parents also appreciate our strong sense of community,” said Rabbi Fogel.

Mercaz Academy will continue celebrating its opening on September 11, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., when it will host a free, family-oriented day of fun for eighteen-plus communities.

Rabbi Fogel, principal of Mercaz Academy, dancing with students on opening day

Did you know? Pencils were originally round. Manufacturers changed pencils’ shape due to users’ frustration with them rolling off surfaces.

MTA welcomes its talmidim back to yeshiva

YKLI Growing With the Community

Yeshiva Ketana of Long Island is constantly on the forefront of meeting the needs of our growing and changing community of the Five Towns and Far Rockaway. With this in mind, we proudly welcome Rabbi Eliezer Feuer, shlita, to our yeshiva, who will assume the position of Manhig Ruchani. Rabbi Feuer is well known for his focus on growth in learning, while inculcating an excitement and passion for limud haTorah, both as Mara d’Asra of YIWB Shaar Hashomayim and as Learning Director at Camp Agudah. As we, at YKLI, consistently aim for our talmidim to strive for excellence, not only in learning, but also in hanhaga, we are thrilled to have Rabbi Feuer as the trailblazer of this position to infuse our talmidim with his vibrant and enthusiastic ta’am.

In order to enhance our Junior High division, and fully prepare our students for Mesivta and beyond, we are delighted to welcome Rabbi Avi Schulman to Yeshiva Ketana of Long Island, where he will serve as Mashgiach to our older boys. Rabbi Schulman’s energetic and animated personality, as well as his mastery in chinuch hanbanim, are warmly received at Mesivta Ateres Yaakov, where Rabbi Schulman is a Magid Shiur, and he is known to retain a sincere kesher with his talmidim long after they graduate. We look forward to having Rabbi Schulman use his skill set and personality to guide and mold our boys to become genuine and ehrlich Bnei Torah.

With the continued expansion of our third track, and in an effort to accommodate the growth all around us, we welcome Rabbi Yisroel Brenner, Rabbi Boruch Danzger, and Rabbi Yaakov Willner to our illustrious group of rabbeim. We also welcome our new teachers: Mrs. Chinskey, Mrs. Cooper, Ms. Gorfinkel, Mrs. Heimlich, Mrs. Paull, Mrs. Pearlman, and Mrs. Simantov.

As we enter the year of taf-shin-peygimmel and a brand new school year, Yeshiva Ketana of Long Island is excited to add so many new talented individuals to our remarkable staff. With abundant Siyata Dishmaya, we look forward to a year of tremendous growth in Torah learning, along with unparalleled academic success.Luxurious Mansion Perfect For Getaways & Simchos!

 Sleeps 30+ Comfortably  Kosher Catering Available  Sefer Torah, Siddurim, & Chumashim

(available upon request)  Shabbos Lamps in Every Room  Eiruv On Property  Seasonal Pool & Hot Tub  5 Acres Call Kia today to book your getaway! Marlborough, CT 860.455.6057/engagedct@gmail.com Vrbo #2248396

Around the Community Global Jewish Community Prepares For Historic “Results” Campaign to Support Refuah Helpline and Cholei Yisroel

First Day of School at YCQ

The Refuah Helpline organization needs no introduction. The group that was originally established by the renowned Mrs. Hanna Landau has over the past decade grown to boast a team of dozens of caseworkers and support staff working around the clock on behalf of our community’s sick.

If Refuah Helpline’s offices are a bustling hub of activity all year round, the pace has only picked up in recent days as the organization readies for its annual Elul campaign that will fund their life-saving efforts in the year ahead. Since all crucial services are provided at no charge and no patient is ever turned away, this drive powers the Refuah Helpline team and the unparalleled results they have become known for.

This year’s initiative is aptly titled “Results,” an ode to the remarkable and often unimaginable results brought about by their efforts. These services take many forms, all designed to maximize results and minimize anguish. Cholei Yisroel and their families have come to rely on their Refuah caseworkers to expertly handle the myriad medical issues that they are forced to grapple with, R”L. From the day that they first receive the difficult news, and often even well before that, the Refuah Helpline team takes their hand and guides them through this notoriously complex world — with life altering results.

When a procedure, appointment, test result or truly anything needs to be expedited; when a novel treatment or difficult transport needs to be arranged; when the biggest expert in their respective field needs to be brought on board; when a family is lost on how to proceed; Refuah Helpline is the address they turn to for the positive results they hope for.

And all this is only a result of the support from a generous nation that continues to lend a hand to their brothers and sisters in crisis. This year, Refuah’s growing mission demands increased funding and it is expected that Klal Yisroel will step up with generosity to ensure that every Yid receives this crucial assistance.

The Results campaign is scheduled for Tuesday and Wednesday, September 13 and 14, in the days when we gather zechusim to merit a blessed year ahead. It will A team of honorees and raisers are already working to secure donations and help ensure that this mission will bring the desired results.

The 36-hour campaign will be hosted on charidy.com/refuah as well as over the phone at 845.606.9222.

Welcome to SKA

Entering high school can be daunting but the incoming ninth graders of the Stella K. Abraham High School for Girls found their Freshmen Orientation on Tuesday morning, September 6, warm and welcoming!

The new SKA students had the opportunity to meet and socialize with their classmates, administration and grade level advisors, while learning to navigate their new school. The ninth grade parents had their own orientation the previous week.

The SKA sophomores, juniors and seniors enjoyed their own wonderful grade picnics last week, which launched the school year off to an exciting start.

Welcome to SKA!

Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman gave opening remarks before former President Donald Trump addressed the Zeldin for Governor event at the Chera home in New Jersey this weekend

Assemblywoman Nily Rozic (D-Fresh Meadows) partnered with two local organizations, Yesodot and Shalom Ima, for a back-to-school giveaway for children and single parent families in Fresh Meadows. She is photographed with Rabbi Nasirov of Congregation Bet-El of Jamaica Estates and Mazal Matayev of Shalom Ima. As one thousand students walk through the doors of Yeshiva of Central Queens (YCQ) on the first day of the 2022-2023 school year, you can feel the students’ anticipation. After a very long summer, they are eager to reunite with old friends, meet new friends, and get to know their new teachers who will instruct, guide, and support them this year. A lot of changes are in place at YCQ this fall, including additional activities, new and innovative curriculum, and brand-new classrooms for our youngest students in pre-school.

“We are blessed this year with excellent staff and faculty, many new to the community,” reports Rabbi Mark Landsman, principal of YCQ. “Yeshiva of Central Queens is filled with students who are ready and eager to learn. Our building is newly and beautifully renovated. My hope for the YCQ 2022-2023 School Year is simcha, shefa, mazal, nachat, hatzlacha, and shalom. We look forward to watching our students grow in middot, Torah, mitzvot, general studies, and the fun and engagement of learning.”

The Jewish Home | SEPTEMBER 8, 2022 A Busy Month at YUConnects

Kids start school. Thoughts turn to upcoming yomim tovim. Our weather becomes a bit cooler. At YUConnects, however, this month brings additional warmth – kindling new matches and warming the hearts of many dating couples.

Celebrating its 560th engagement, the YUConnects team continues to change the course of relationships through a combination of outstanding educational programming and innovative ways to create more meeting opportunities.

The YUConnects program is open to the entire Jewish community and recognizes that investing in healthy relationships will lead to substantial dividends ensuring strong and happy marriages. To that end, their popular CandiDate podcast offers its listeners candid conversations on the Jewish dating scene with experts and influencers in the field. Released twice each month with over 40,000 downloads and 37 episodes, CandiDate is educational, entertaining and perfect for those who are dating or want to improve their own interpersonal relationships.

The most recent two releases are especially engrossing and feature Rebbetzin Slovie Jungreis Wolff on “First Impressions” and Rabbi Dovid M. Cohen on “Positivity and Perseverance” – both certainly relevant for this time of year. Many more insightful episodes will be released later this fall.

At the heart of the YUConnects organization is a cadre of nearly 100 volunteer matchmakers (connectors) who work tirelessly making suggestions and mentoring the thousands of singles within the network. Part of the continuing mission of YUConnects is to maintain standards of professionalism and sensitivity of its matchmakers. “Seven Habits of Highly Effective Shadchanim,” a zoom class, was offered this week by master matchmakers Malky Galler and Kim Solomon as a continuing series of helpful courses.

Dr. Efrat Sobolofsky, director of YUConnects, commented that these classes “bring our connectors together to learn, exchange tips and hone their own skills as they guide our daters into meaningful relationships.”

A growing presence in Israel, this month also includes a Midrasha for female daters in partnership with the OU Israel and Alit and YUConnects’ own YS (Yeshiva Seminary) Links program.

And, one week before Rosh Hashana, a major world-wide event, the Global “Meet the Matchmaker” initiative, is unveiled. Men and women will have the opportunity to have personal zoom meetings with dozens of devoted matchmakers, from California to Israel. “The better our Connectors know members and those wishing to date, the more targeted suggestions can be made,” pointed out Mindy Eisenman, YUConnects Staff Connector. “It’s simple. It’s productive. It is yet another example of how we look for multiple ways to build relationships!”

The Yamim Noraim are often referred to as “days of awe.” May the actions and work of YUConnects turn the upcoming weeks into days of dates, engagements and days of smiles and “aahhs!”

To learn more about these programs and the many resources of YUConnects visit www.yuconnects.com, follow on Instagram, Facebook or LinkedIn, and search “YUConnects CandiDate” wherever you get your podcasts.

A networking meeting

Off to a Good Start at Shulamith ECC

The morot at the Shulamith Early Childhood Center are ready to greet their young charges with a hug and a smile as well as a whole slew of new, up-to-date ideas to help the children achieve their maximum potential in all of the developmental domains.

Long before the first day of school, the devoted staff of Shulamith ECC was in the building setting up the classrooms, stocking the shelves with attractive educational materials, and planning a research- based curriculum that is handson, active and fun.

The teachers also participated in professional development workshops that enhanced their ability to create a positive and emotionally safe environment for all of the banot in their classrooms. At Shulamith ECC, we know that a child’s inner wellbeing has a direct effect on learning and development. The teachers discussed new strategies and techniques to enhance the happy, family-like environment in school so that the children feel comfortable learning and growing.

The entire staff and administration of Shulamith Early Childhood Center wishes all the children in the community a wonderful start to the school year and a bracha that Hashem should grant us all a year of good health, happiness, and growth.

Kids — parents, too! — are all raving about My Story: Stories about kids just like you, by popular author Zivia Reischer. They’re loving the stories, and they’re loving seeing the unique challenges of young people’s lives through the eyes of kids just like them.

We talked to Zivia Reischer about kids, writing, and the incredible power of stories.

As the author of My Story — let’s talk about your story. What led you to write for children?

I don’t think I ever intended to specifically write for kids. I’ve written a lot for adults – mainly in Mishpacha magazine – and I’ve ghostwritten books for adults. I also wrote a few serials for kids in Mishpacha’s Teen Pages and The Circle that morphed into novels. I found that those were the projects that really brought me joy. It didn’t feel like work.

What makes writing for children so uniquely rewarding?

I think it’s because it gives them a voice. They read the story and they’re like, Yesss! Exactly! It expresses what they feel but couldn’t express on their own. Sometimes, the story gives them insight into people or experiences — now they understand what’s going on around them. When that happens, that new knowledge becomes part of them. They carry that insight with them for the rest of their lives, and it shapes the way they interact with the world — that’s what we mean when we say they “grow.” It’s very special to be able to be part of that process.

My Story has such a varied range of stories, some of them very relatable for children, and others very unusual. Is there any common thread in all the kids’ narratives?

I think they’re all experiences that were very meaningful, maybe we can even say life-altering. In every story, something in the kid’s life changed forever. Some of the stories are very intense, like the one about a kid discovering that his mother has MS. But even those that are less dramatic, like the twin who stops wearing clothing matching to her sister, are built around a moment of real clarity and deep insight that really changed the kid.

You have to remember that kids don’t have a lot of autonomy. Adults have the privilege of making decisions about important things in their lives, but kids mostly get told what to do — go here, go there; we’re switching you to a different school; you can’t buy that; you can’t do that. When you read these stories, it’s incredible to see how kids find the magic spot where they do have a choice about what to think or do or feel, and how strong they can be.

What are some of the issues that the kids touch upon in My Story?

The stories fall into two categories: experiences that are universal and experiences that are unique. You know how every class or every family has that one challenging child who gets all the attention and rewards, and the other kids think, I’m doing the right thing, and no one pays any attention to me? And you know how kids always want the new/ cool/brand name whatever? And lots of kids — especially girls — know what it feels like to be dropped by a friend. All those scenarios are included in the book, as well as many other common experiences.

But some of the stories are about things that are much less common: there’s a kid who’s adopted, a kid who accused of doing something they didn’t do, a kid who gets stuck in middle of a river. Some stories are about kids facing a rare, tough choice, or about being stuck in dramatic, unusual situations.

Kids love stories — especially stories about other children their age. Where does the power of a story come from?

When you read a story, your heart is open. You have no vested interest in the outcome. The choices of the characters can’t hurt you, and if everyone in the story fails/flops/dies, no problem, your life will continue as normal. That security lets you read the story without any defenses. Your guard is down. But the magic is that by the time you get to the end, you are literally absorbed in the story — it is no longer a story about distant characters; somewhere in the story you find yourself, and it becomes about you. Whatever the character achieves, you feel like you achieved. And whatever the character learns, gains, or accomplishes, becomes part of you too.

The power isn’t in the story. The power is in you. The story reveals it.

Which of the stories touched you the most?

This is a pick-your-favorite-child kind of question. Maybe it’s the stories where the kids accomplished something I don’t think I could have done, like the girl who has to choose between her family and her friends. I was also very moved by the kids who are growing up with tough circumstances, like the kid with two homes. But I think the most inspirational stories are about kids who overcame real problems and morphed into a stronger, better version of themselves. Isn’t that what we all really want?

Did you know? The average size tree will make approximately 300,000 pencils.

The Jewish Home | SEPTEMBER 8, 2022 A True Chessed Shel Emes

Community Comes Out in Respect for Milton Storch, a”h

On Shabbos morning, August 27, Milton Storch, 59, was sitting outside his favorite bodega on Beach 20 Street in Far Rockaway. Locals said that Mr. Storch was a kindhearted gentleman, who would sit on his walker and enjoy his coffee in the mornings while chatting with passersby.

But on that day, Milton’s life was mowed down by Kiani Phoenix, 26, who intentionally drove her car onto the sidewalk after fighting with her friend. Unable to move out of the way due to his disability, Milton was killed.

Although the story was publicized on the media, no family came forward to claim Milton’s body. But local askanim, who heard of the story, said that Milton’s name sounded Jewish – and they thought that Milton was Jewish despite being listed as a Christian. Research, though, needed to be done – and it had to be done quickly. The medical examiner’s officer and the city cannot hold bodies indefinitely. If no one would claim Milton’s body, the city would bury him in a generic grave.

Sholem Klein, coordinator of the RNSP Shomrim, told TJH that RNSP members, the JCCRP, Achiezer, Chessed Shel Emes, and local businessman Reuven Guttman frantically started to do their own research to determine if Milton was Jewish or not.

Finally, after days and countless hours of research, on Tuesday morning, they managed to track down Milton’s twin sister, who was living in Florida. Sholem Klein had to break the tragic news to her that her brother had passed away. They also got in touch with Milton’s nephew.

After speaking with Milton’s sister and determining that Milton was, indeed, Jewish, the sister told Sholem that they wanted a Jewish burial for Milton but did not have any money for it.

Chessed Shel Emes jumped in to defray the costs.

On Wednesday, the word was sent out for the community to join in the chessed of giving Milton a respectful levaya. More than 200 people came out to the White Shul in Far Rockaway.

“He must have had a special zechus,” Sholem noted, “to have such a large showing at his levaya. He must have done something really amazing in his lifetime.”

Rabbi Eytan Feiner spoke at the levaya. He exhorted the community to open their hearts to those around them and questioned why we hadn’t heard of Milton – one of our Jewish brothers – before the tragedy.

Mr. Richie Altabe, president of the JCCRP, said Tehillim. Rabbi Joel Kaplan chanted the “Kel Maleh Rachamim.”

Councilwoman Selvena Brooks-Powers came to pay her respects.

Throngs of people escorted the meis down the street on the way to the cemetery. Milton was buried in a cemetery in Woodridge, NY, where 40 men joined together in the darkness to make sure he was buried in a respectful manner.

Chessed Shel Emes and the community have arranged for Mishnayos to be learned for Milton’s neshama.

Sholem Klein reiterated to TJH that this was a joint effort in helping to bring a proper kevurah to a Jewish man. He thanked the detectives and officers at the 101 Precinct of the NYPD, the medical examiner’s office, the JCCRP, Achiezer, Chessed Shel Emes, and members of the RNSP Shomrim for their involvement. And, of course, to members of the community who felt connected to Milton and came to be me’laveh him.

May his neshama have an aliyah and may it be a zechus for the community.

The Jewish Home | SEPTEMBER 8, 2022 Leading Gedolei Yisrael to Address Dirshu’s 8th International Yom Limud and Tefilla

Hundreds of Thousands Throughout the World to Unite in Learning and Tefilla On Behalf of Klal Yisrael

By Chaim Gold

The Chofetz Chaim’s yahrtzeit is an eis ratzon. There is perhaps no one in recent generations who did so much to help and enrich Klal Yisrael – both in sur mei’rah and asei tov. Whether it is the sefer Chofetz Chaim that brought to the forefront of Klal Yisrael’s agenda the importance of being careful with one’s speech, or Ahavas Chessed that codified all the halachos of chessed, or, of course, the Chofetz Chaim’s magnum opus sefer Mishnah Berurah that continues to be the foundational daily halacha sefer in Klal Yisrael, we are still today being spiritually enriched by the Chofetz Chaim. Certainly, the Chofetz Chaim, through his sefer Likutei Halachos on hilchos korbanos in the BeisHamikdash, also brought the concept of tzipisa l’yeshua, longing for the yeshua, to the forefront of public consciousness. Thus, there is no doubt that the day of his yahrtzeit is a tremendous eis ratzon, an opportune time for tefilla and for invoking rachmei shomayim on behalf of all Jews.

Indeed, if there was ever a time that Klal Yisrael needed to unite in a massive outpouring of tefilla and achdus; if there was ever a time when tens of thousands of tinokos shel beis rabban needed to come together to invoke rachmei shomayim, that time is now!

That is why Dirshu’s 8th Annual International Yom Limud and Tefilla, to be held on 24 Elul/September 20, the Chofetz Chaim’s yahrtzeit, can’t come sooner.

This year’s Yom Limud and Tefilla will showcase a special videocast with divrei chizuk by leading Gedolei Yisrael including HaGaon HaRav Moshe Shternbuch, shlita, Raavad of the Eidah Hachareidis; HaGaon HaRav Shimon Galei, shlita, well-known mashpia and Rosh Kollel; HaGaon HaRav Reuven Elbaz, shlita, Rosh Yeshivat Ohr Hachaim; and HaGaon HaRav Nissan Kaplan, shlita, Rosh Yeshivas Daas Aharon. The event, that will be launched on motzoei Shabbos Parshas Ki Savo, September 17, will also feature inspiring words by Dirshu’s Nasi, Rav Dovid Hofstedter, shlita. The videocast will be chaired by Rav Zev Smith, shlita.

One of the highlights of the videocast promises to be the never-before-seen historical footage of Rav Michel Yehuda Lefkowitz, the unforgettable rosh yeshia of Yeshiva Ponovezh L’Tzeirim, addressing a group of Acheinu students during the month of Elul. Acheinu is the kiruv arm of Dirshu, and the boys had come to Rav Michel for chizuk in advance of Rosh Hashanah. The video cast will be available to hear on a dedicated audio-line and a USB will also be available for viewing by contacting Dirshu’s offices. It will also be available on a number of other platforms.

Undoubtedly, the video and divrei chizuk from the Gedolim in honor of the Chofetz Chaim’s yahrtzeit and in advance of the upcoming Yomim Noraim will serve as an ideal way to prepare and derive chizuk for the Yom Hadin.

The Yom Limud and Tefilla was established by Dirshu eight years ago specifically to bring Klal Yisrael together on the auspicious occasion of the Chofetz Chaim’s yahrzeit right before Rosh Hashanah in unified tefilla on behalf of Klal Yisrael and to encourage the continued learning of the Chofetz Chaim’s sefarim that have such power to invoke rachmei shomayim.

Organizers of the Yom Limud and Tefilla clearly tapped into the innate feeling of every Jewish neshama in these extraordinary times when Klal Yisrael is facing unprecedented challenges. This concentrated effort in tefilla and achdus was designed to arouse heavenly mercy in the zechus of the heiligeh Chofetz Chaim who was so moser nefesh to promote these ideals amongst Klal Yisrael.

On the Yom Limud and Tefilla, Jews throughout the world will gather to recite specific perakim of Tehillim and learn segments from the sefarim written by the Chofetz Chaim, the Mishnah Berurah and the Sefer Shemiras Halason.

The Tehillim being recited will be perakim kof and kuf-lamed, followed by the tefilla of Acheinu Beis Yisrael. The limud of the sifrei Chofetz Chaim will be from Dirshu’s Daf HaYomi B’Halacha program that is currently learning the laws of Birchas Hashachar. It will comprise the first se’if in siman 52. The mussar limud from the sefarim of the Chofetz Chaim will be from the sixth perek of the sefer Shmiras Halashon.

School Programs

Simultaneously, a unique program will take place in more than 300 cities across the world with many hundreds of yeshivos, chadorim and Bais Yaakovs participating.

The remarkable, school-age program designed by Dirshu is sure to have a tremendous impact on tens of thousands of children both in major Jewish centers and in places far from Yiddishkeit hubs. Created with the singular goal of connecting children to the teachings and life of the Chofetz Chaim, the program offers some hilchos Rosh Hashanah together with hashkafa and mussar as taught by the Chofetz Chaim and compiled into an age-appropriate, user-friendly, easy-to-understand booklet replete with magnificent illustrations, rare stories of the Chofetz Chaim and a brief history of the Chofetz Chaim’s yeshiva.

Dirshu has made these extremely compelling, artfully designed booklets in both English and Yiddish for three different age groups: grades 1-3, 4-5 and 6-8.

The captivating stories and graphics are sure to motivate the children in each age group to read and be inspired. In addition, the combination of riveting graphics and clarity of the lessons has been hailed by leading menahelim and mechanchim as a tremendously successful way of bringing alive the lessons of the Chofetz Chaim.

In their effort to reach tinokos shel beis rabban from across the spectrum, Dirshu has designed a vivid Yiddish version of the booklet for Chassidishe chadorim with tailormade illustrations.

Along with the booklet, all children will be gifted with a professionally produced CD replete with remarkable lessons and stories about the Chofetz Chaim. The English-speaking students will receive a CD by Rabbi Yoel Ferber while the Yiddish speakers will be entertained by Rav Leibish Lish.

Throughout the diverse communities across the United States and Canada, a wide range of more than 150 boys’ and girls’ schools, chadorim and Bais Yaakovs that truly represent the entire panoply of Orthodox Jewry, has signed up for the Yom Limud and Tefilla school programs. They include schools from communities such as Monsey, NY; Lakewood, NJ; Brooklyn, NY; Manhattan, NY; Toronto, Canada; Houston, TX; Baltimore, MD; Cleveland, OH; Waterbury, CN; Phoenix, AZ; Passaic, NJ; Denver, CO; Boston, MA; Los Angeles, CA; and Providence, RI, as well as countless Chassidishe schools in Brooklyn, Lakewood, and Monsey.

This is aside from schools, chadorim and Bais Yaakovs throughout Eretz Yisrael and Europe who will also participate in the Yom Limud and Tefilla. According to Rabbi Gershon Kroizer of Dirshu, “Hundreds of schools in Eretz Yisrael, North America and Europe encompassing hundreds of thousands of children will participate in the Yom Limud and Tefilla utilizing the unique content provided to commemorate the auspicious day. The impact on young boys and girls learning about the Chofetz Chaim will be both huge and unparalleled,” he exclaimed.

With Rosh Hashanah nearly upon us, we realize what a monumental Yom Hadin we are facing. The world is an extremely unstable place. Klal Yisrael needs you to daven together with hundreds of thousands throughout the world on Dirshu’s Yom Limud and Tefilla, and you need the words of the Gedolim broadcast on the videocast for guidance and chizuk in advance of the New Year.

Don’t miss it!

Dirshu Yom Limud and Tefilla participants at Yeshiva Darchei Torah, Far Rockaway, 2021

Cross River Bank has donated $5 million to dedicate the new Touro University campus being built at 3 Times Square, Touro President Dr. Alan Kadish announced last week.

Touro is naming the campus, where it will lease space for the next 30 years, the Cross River Campus of Touro University to honor the generosity of the bank. Cross River CEO and founder Gilles Gade is a member of the Touro board of directors.

“Touro is incredibly grateful to Mr. Gade and Cross River Bank for this gift that will enable our students to learn in a modern, state-of-the-art environment with a rich campus life,” said President Kadish, “Cross River is a pioneer in the banking industry as Touro continues to be an innovator in higher education. We thank Mr. Gade and the Cross River Board for their commitment to philanthropy, for taking the lead with this visionary gift and most of all, for their friendship. Their support will ensure that Touro’s groundbreaking programs and educational offerings in so many exciting fields continue well into the future.”

Renovations on the campus are expected to be completed in December 2022, and the campus will be home to Touro’s NYSCAS undergraduate program as well as a number of its graduate schools and the Touro College of Pharmacy. Boasting state-of-the-art labs, student lounges and a kosher café, the ultramodern, urban campus is located at the crossroads of the world, near all major mass transit for NYC and the metro area.

As a leader in interdisciplinary education, Touro will now offer its students opportunities to take advantage of pathway programs from undergraduate to graduate and professional schools.

“Our new campus will become a vehicle for student growth and success. With world class faculty in so many fields situated in one central location, there will be more opportunity to exchange ideas, collaborate and learn together,” continued Dr. Kadish.

According to Mr. Gade, ““Higher education is critical to career success, and we are proud to support Touro’s mission of providing superior quality education in tandem with the Jewish ideals of service to the community. At Cross River, our motto is ‘doing well by doing good,’ and we share those values with Touro.”

A Hostage in Her Own Home

By Shoshana Weintraub

“He said to me, ‘The day you leave is the day you will die.’”

Rachel came from a broken Jewish family. Her parents had a messy divorce, and by the time she was seven years old, they had both abandoned her and she was living in an orphanage.

Years later, Rachel was married to an Arab man. She was trapped, a hostage in her own home. There was no one to turn to, no one to help her, no one to save her. She was beaten, stabbed, and threatened with murder – until Yad L’Achim rescued her.

Rachel’s story is unlike any you have ever heard, and now women in the tristate area have the opportunity to hear it live, in person, as she is coming to America for the first time. Beginning Sunday, September 11, Rachel will be speaking for seven nights in seven cities (see details below or at YadLachimTour.com). Her tale of triumph over darkness and evil is transformational.

Unfortunately, Rachel is one of many Jewish women trapped in Arab villages. These young Jewish girls, often from troubled backgrounds, are groomed by Arab men, who may be posing as Jews. They offer the girls gifts and attention, which soon turns to terror. Women in these marriages are routinely subjected to depraved violence and abuse. The years pass, and their children are raised as Arab Muslims and taught to hate Jews.

“It is almost impossible for a Westerner to imagine how totally trapped these women are,” says Rabbi Yossi Eliav, Yad L’Achim’s Director of Special Projects and the organizer of Rachel’s speaking tour. “Some of them live like prisoners, wit

“One woman did not have access to a phone for 32 years, so she had no way to call for help,” says R’ Nesanel Gantz, Director of Yad L’Achim in America.

Yad L’Achim, founded in 1950, has rescued thousands of imprisoned women and their children. The operations are conducted with the utmost secrecy, as the lives of the women, their children, and all operatives are at high risk.

Once a rescue is complete, Yad L’Achim provides safe shelter for the women and their children and supports their reintegration into society. Thousands more Jewish women and children are still trapped in these conditions today.

Rachel’s story is truly unlike any you have heard before. In fact, when she shared it on a Zoom call with the Yad L’Achim staff in America in preparation for the live events, everyone was brought to tears. The events will also feature an incredible video of a rescue as well as a surprise guest. You will be inspired, amazed, and uplifted—don’t miss it.

Tickets can be purchased at the door or reserved in advance: visit www.yadlachimtour.com or call 718-633-0776. Doors open at 7:30 p.m. on all nights.

Event locations:

Flatbush: Sunday, September 11, at Yad Yosef, 1036 Ocean Pkwy.

Five Towns/Far Rockaway: Monday, September 12, at TAG, 444 Beach 6th St.

Lakewood: Tuesday, September 13, at Tashbar of Lakewood, 82 Oak St.

Boro Park: Wednesday, September 14, at Bais Yaakov High School, 4420 15th Ave.

Crown Heights: Thursday, September 15, at Jewish Children’s Museum, 792 Eastern Pkwy.

Monsey: Sunday, September 18, at The Atrium Ballroom, 401 NY-59

Lakewood 2: Monday, September 19, at Tashbar of Lakewood, 82 Oak St.

Around the Community YOSS ECC Welcomes New Pre-1A Rebbe

Did you hear the news?

Guess who’s coming to town?

Good guess..but no! It’s not Uncle Moishy!

The Early Childhood Center at Yeshiva of South Shore is excited to introduce our new Pre-1A Rebbe, Rabbi Feivish Rotbardt.

Rabbi Rotbardt has already been a part of our YOSS family in the past as an elementary school rebbe and will fit right back in to the YOSS family. Additionally, he served as a CAHAL Rebbe in the YOSS building. (His father is also an alumnus of the original Yeshiva Toras Chaim in East New York where Rav Binaymain Kamenetzky, zt”l, was a rebbe.)

Raised here in the Five Towns, he learned in Yeshiva Sh’or Yoshuv followed by seven years learning in HaRav Binyomin Forst’s Kollel and in the Mechanchim Kollel of Yeshiva Darchei Torah. Additionally, he has learned privately with tens of boys in the Five Towns and Far Rockaway and has earned a golden reputation for his warmth, understanding, and patience. Currently, he gives a Amud Yomi shiur every morning and is a long-time member of the night kollel of Beis Medrash of Cedarhurst.

The incoming classes to the YOSS ECC are lucky to have Rabbi Rotbardt as their rebbe, as they will undoubtedly experience a year of growth in learning and skill-building, as they set on their life-long journey through Torah, parsha, moadim, and Yiddishkeit.

“I am proud to once again join the YOSS Family,” Rabbi Rotbardt said, “and I have tremendous hakaras hatov to the hanhala for the warmth that they showed me now and in the past at YOSS.”

The entire YOSS Hanhallah wishes Rabbi Rotbardt much hatzlacha.

As the cost of living in Israel rises, the country’s struggling working class wonders how it will survive the Rosh Hashanah holiday. A unique opportunity to donate to Meir Panim is still available before time runs out.

With another Israeli election on the horizon, opposition leader Benjamin Netanyahu has focused on a critical issue for struggling Israelis: inflation. Polling data shows that Israel’s inflationary price hikes are a priority issue among his constituency, and so Netanyahu is focusing his campaign efforts on lowering prices and the cost of living for everyday Israelis.

The Campaign Promise

A recent Netanyahu campaign video shows the former prime minister going to a grocery store in Jerusalem’s Malha Mall. Standing next to an apple stand with a crowd of frustrated shoppers gathered around him, the opposition leader declares: “We’ll lower prices to assist you! Mortgages have increased! The gasoline – have you heard? We’ll also lower [the price of] gas. Do you want it to decrease?” Netanyahu asked rhetorically. “Yes!” the crowd answered in unison. “So vote for us!” he said with an optimistic grin.

Netanyahu’s campaign video continues at a bakery and a gas station, where he bemoans the increase in prices across the board, vowing that, if elected, he will reduce the rising prices plaguing Israel’s working class.

The Data

According to a poll by the Israel Democracy Institute at the end of May, the most pressing issue for Israelis currently is the high cost of living, with 34% listing it as their top concern. In third place, after security, Israelis are concerned about increases in the cost of housing, another inflation-related issue.

A Price Comparison

The cost to fill up a full tank of gas in Israel is among the highest in the world, practically double the already high cost of gas in the United States. Israelis paying over $9 per gallon watch with jealousy as Americans complain about paying $5 per gallon!

Israel’s Electricity Authority recently announced a 9.6% price increase beginning this month, with significant consequences for lower-income Israelis. Families struggling to pay already high electricity bills will now face an even greater burden.

With rising prices crushing the lower class, the Finance Ministry tried to subsidize bread but was recently forced to raise prices to mollify Israel’s bakeries, who have themselves struggled with flour shortages and price hikes due to the war in Ukraine.

As always, the people hurt the most by price hikes are those in Israel’s struggling lower class. That is why charitable organizations like Meir Panim are a vital safety net for the most vulnerable Israelis.

A Silver Lining

Meir Panim provides warm meals to Israelis who need them through their country-wide network of Restaurant-Style Soup Kitchens. To minimize waste and costs, the organization acquires about half of its food from local hotels that would otherwise throw out perfectly edible and delicious food, and its staff includes many dedicated volunteers. Nevertheless, Meir Panim bears many costs that are only increasing due to inflation, including food, transport, storage, cleaning, rent, and utilities for their restaurant-style soup kitchens. They rely 100% on private donations.

A Wave of Hunger

This Rosh Hashana, Meir Panim expects an unprecedented influx of hungry families unable to afford essential food items. To ensure every family receives the meals they require for the High Holidays, it is critically important for Meir Panim to raise additional funds. According to tradition, G-d determines on Rosh Hashana how much money each of us will make in the coming year. Traditionally, many people donate charity to worthy causes before the holiday begins, as it is their last chance to be judged favorably by G-d.

Now is your chance to help Israel’s poorest families at the time they need it most. Help feed a hungry family in Israel this new year by donating to Meir Panim today. SERVICING THE GREATER 5 TOWNS COMMUNITY FOR OVER 15 YEARS

SERVICE CALLS: RESIDENTIAL • COMMERCIAL • INDUSTRIAL

Installations • Maintenance • Repairs

JEPREN 7 reaches new heights.

By Frimet Blum

Anticipation is mounting for JEPREN 7, the JEP/Camp Nageela real estate networking event that will give the real estate community a unique opportunity to make quality, lasting business connections. JEPREN will be held this Tuesday, September 13, at New York City’s premier rooftop bar: 230 Fifth Avenue. The venue offers breathtaking views with a backdrop of the Empire State Building and the New York City skyline.

JEPREN is open to owners, investors, lenders, contractors, builders, managers, vendors, and others in the real estate field. The event offers attendees the opportunity to meet people in the industry, including many from large, prestigious firms. The list of sponsors and attendees reads like a “Who’s Who” in real estate. Major sponsors include Meridian Capital, Riverside Abstract, The Real Deal - New York’s Real Estate News, DHPH, Newmark and other industry stalwarts.

“I’ve been attending JEPREN for several years, and I look forward to the real estate networking while supporting a unique and special organization,” said Meir Krengel of TBG Funding. “You can’t beat great food, drinks and networking with industry leaders.” “I have made some solid business connections that landed real deals” says Aryeh Smith. This year’s venue and sponsor list garnered added interest. “230 5th is a great location for this year’s event and we are all excited about the new venue,” said Jeffrey Edelman Esq.

The event will feature fine dining by Michael Schick as well as wine pairing, a mixologist, and an open bar. There will also be swag for attendees and raffles throughout the evening. JEPREN will benefit JEP/Camp Nageela, an organization that introduces Jewish youth to their heritage and teaches them how to be joyfully Jewish. “I’m honored to support an amazing organization where the funds really go to support outreach for teens that has a proven track record for over 30 year,” says Eli Sklar of Guaranteed Rate.

“The spirit at Camp Nageela is incredible,” says JEP’s founder and director, Rabbi Dovid Shenker. “We have kids from all over the United States coming together, learning, and growing in a Jewish environment. The effect on the children’s lives is very enduring. Four weeks in Camp Nageela gives the kids a Jewish identity and pride that carries on forever.”

Camp Nageela is situated on a magnificent 45-acre campus in Sullivan County, where campers take in the atmosphere while they engage in stimulating activities such as boating, horseback riding, sports, swimming, and much more. Many of the campers return for years and eventually join the staff. “I’ve discovered who I wanted to be as a person,” one camper-turned-counselor says. “It’s hard to imagine what my life would be without Camp Nageela.”

Rabbi Dovid and Basi Shenker appreciate the real estate community’s support for JEP/Camp Nageela. They wax poetic, “While real estate builds homes, JEP builds Jewish futures.”

To join industry leaders as a corporate sponsor of JEPREN, contact Rivka Lock at rivkal@jepli.org or at 323.314.8773. To register as an attendee, visit JEPREN.ORG.

OWNERS, INVESTORS, DEVELOPERS, MANAGERS AND REAL ESTATE PROFESSIONALS - YOU DON’T WANT TO MISS THIS!

jep

ReN7

JEP CAMP NAGEELA

BLUMARKETING 718.258.4426