71 minute read
Community Happenings
The Jewish Home | SEPTEMBER 22, 2022 Around the Community
Father-Son Shofar Workshop at YOSS
This past Sunday, Rabbi Moshe Shonek, eighth grade rebbi at YOSS, led a father-son shofar workshop. They began by learning maarei mekomos on hilchos shofar. Together, they learned the sugya of which kinds of horns are kosher for the mitzvah of shofar. Rabbi Mordechai Kamenetzky expounded on the inyan of shofar and then Rabbi Shonek gave shiur on hilchos shofar. He brought in horns from rams, cows, and many other kosher animals that could be used as a shofar. Rabbi Shonek, a ba’al tokea in his own right, demonstrated the different sounds each horn makes and how the fashioning of the shofar has an impact on halacha.
After the shiur, everyone went outside to make their own shofar. Each talmid was given a raw, uncut shofar, and together with their fathers and grandfathers they cut, drilled, and sanded the shofar until it was kosher and ready for use!
Special thanks to Mr. Vaiselberg for providing the equipment and support needed for this project.
Selichos at Aish Kodesh
5 Towns Flag Football League: Week 2
Central/Yeshiva University High School for Girls Commemorates 9/11
Touchdown!
This past Friday was week 2 of FM Home Loans 5 Towns Flag Football. We had an excellent, intense, and competitive week of games.
In the Pre1A division under the direction of Rabbi Jeremy Fine, the boys practiced drills for running, tagging, and catching. They are already on track to be all stars!
In the 1st grade division, the Patriots defeated the Giants with an amazing interception that led to a touchdown by Baruch Samuels. And the Jets defeated the Broncos.
In the 2nd grade division, the Broncos defeated the Jets. The Vikings defeated the Eagles. And the Giants defeated the Patriots with the help of Shai Makowsky’s amazing short catches.
In the 3rd and 4th grade division, the Jets defeated the Patriots. The Raiders defeated the Falcons with an amazing touchdown by Shai Well. The Saints tied the Commanders. The Eagles defeated the Packers. The Giants defeated the Panthers. The Seahawks defeated the Steelers with a TDP by Avrumi Kapnick. The Dolphins defeated the Vikings. And the Broncos defeated the Texans.
In the 5th and 6th grade division, the Patriots defeated the Jets. The Falcons defeated the Giants with a game winning touchdown by Dovid Sax. The Saints defeated the Dolphins. The Steelers defeated the Vikings. The Seahawks defeated the Packers. The Panthers defeated the Raiders with David Yamar’s game winning touchdown. And the Eagles defeated the Broncos.
In the 7th and 8th grade division, the Commanders defeated the Eagles with. The Jets defeated the Giants with Zev Brenners 3 picks and consistent flag pulls. The Vikings defeated the Broncos. And the Texans defeated the Patriots with amazing catches and flag pulls by Avi Berger. Wishing everyone a good year and a great season.
On Monday, September 12, students at Central had the privilege of hearing from Deputy Chief James McNally, who served with the FDNY during 9/11. Mrs. Amy Katz opened the program with a moving slideshow about the quickly-unfolding events of the morning of 9/11 when the world changed in the span of only 149 minutes. Chief McNally was then introduced, and he described his traumatic experiences from the day, sharing details about his role as a fireman and how he lost many close friends during the attack. He showed the students a metal bolt that someone had kept from one of the Towers. Additionally, he described the significance of 9/11 to the FDNY community. Instead of running away from the tragedy, they were running into it, rescuing as many people as possible. Firemen spent many days following the tragedy sifting through the rubble, trying to find human remains, which was a long, hard, and tiring process. The officers worked 24-hour shifts on and off for days. Many workers unfortunately developed sicknesses from the toxic air.
After sharing his story, Deputy Chief McNally opened the floor to all questions, allowing the students and faculty the opportunity to learn more about that day.
Meira Schuck, a junior, remarked, “Hearing from Mr. McNally was eye-opening. I had never heard a firsthand account from someone who had been through what happened on 9/11. It was amazing to hear how all these incredible people were so brave and did everything that they could to help save others.”
Mr. Louis Garza, a retired NYPD detective and Central’s very own security guard, reflected, “Even in the darkest of times, you should look for the helpers because there’s always someone who is willing to help.”
Thank you to Mrs. April McNally for helping to facilitate the program!
Rav Aaron Wahl’s fifth grade talmidim at Yeshiva Darchei Torah, who are learning Gemara Eilu Metzios, measuring a kav of grain that fell in an area measuring four amos The cases of the first Mishnah in Bava Metzia came to life in Rav Aaron Wahl’s fifth grade class at Yeshiva Darchei Torah
Likras Shabbos Grand Siyum
For 15 years, dozens of boys have greeted Shabbos with a sense of calm and purpose. Likras Shabbos is a national organization which coordinates centrally located erev Shabbos learning programs, in which boys in grades 5 through 8 learn hilchos Shabbos, enjoy delicious kugel, and participate in exciting raffles.
Last year, Far Rockaway/Five Towns boasted five strong groups – three in Far Rockaway, one in Inwood and one in Woodmere. Dynamic rebbeim invested heart and soul to make the learning engaging and relevant. Likras Shabbos thanks Rabbi Yonasan Posnick, Rabbi Benyomin Jacobi, Rabbi Avrohom Chaim Nobel, Rabbi Yaakov Weinberg, and Rabbi Yosef Richtman for making this year’s sessions so meaningful. The boys now possess a keen understanding of Hilchos Muktzeh.
An estimated 60 boys participated in the Grand Siyum, which was held last Sunday in Yeshiva Gedolah of Five Towns. Rabbi Ephraim Perlstein introduced the event and explained that the laws of Muktzeh are rooted in the Kedusha of Shabbos, as every davar she’bikedusha needs proper preparation. Similarly, the purpose of Likras Shabbos learning is to prepare for that kedusha. Rav Moshe Zev Katzenstein, Rosh Yeshiva of Yeshiva Gedolah of Five Towns, shared that when the Hashem presented the mitzvah of Shabbos to Klal Yisroel, He instructed Moshe to inform the Jews of this great gift called Shabbos so they will appreciate it. Through learning the laws of Shabbos and preparing for it with anticipation, the participants of Likras Shabbos declare, “Message received!”
The boys enjoyed a delicious catered meal from Oldak Caterers and participated in exciting raffles. Prizes included a set of Chumashim, a set of P’nei Yehoshua, an electric scooter, and an electric guitar with an amplifier. There was even a special raffle for the boys who scored well on the test at the end of the program. This year’s groups will begin learning Hilchos Shehiya, Chazara, and Hatmana starting erev Shabbos Parshas Noach, October 28, 2022. It is open for boys grades 5-8. For more information or to organize a group in your neighborhood or shul, please contact Ephraim Perlstein at 646-346-0269 or epmohel@ gmail.com. In the zchus of so many children demonstrating love, respect, and appreciation for hilchos Shabbos, may we merit to see the Yom She’kulo Shabbos very soon.
HALB’s Sports Club, run by Rabbi Lieberman, attended the Jets game last week. Teachers, parents, and students had a great time and had the opportunity to go on the field Rabbi Eytan Feiner, rav of the White Shul, speaking at the Tehillim on Klaf global Tefilah Selichos
Regional Directors Convene for Chai Lifeline Global Conference
Chai Lifeline directors from across the United States and around the world gathered in Eatontown, NJ, September 13-14 for Chai Lifeline’s Annual Regional Directors Conference. The twoday program convened directors from New York, New Jersey/Pennsylvania, Mid-Atlantic, Southeast, Midwest, and West Coast, as well as Toronto, Montreal, Israel, Belgium, and the United Kingdom.
The group, representing more than 6,000 global Chai Lifeline families, discussed a wide range of topics, including organizational values and vision, programs and services, marketing and development, staff and volunteer training, community engagement, case management, and more.
“As a global leader in children’s health support and trauma response, it is critical for us to regularly evaluate and assess the current landscape, and strategize for the future of the organization,” said Rabbi Simcha Scholar, CEO of Chai Lifeline. “This conference is an opportunity for our talented team of directors to connect, share ideas, and explore new ways to broaden Chai Lifeline’s reach, strengthen its impact, and improve services for our families.”
Participants heard from a variety of speakers, including Rabbi Scholar, National Director of Client Services Rabbi Mordechai Gobioff, CFO Esther Bergman, CDO Elliot Halperin, CMO Matt Yaniv, and Director of Camp Simcha Nachman Maimon.
“Each of our selfless directors brings a unique perspective and is dedicated to helping our children, families, and communities. It was great to be able to meet with our colleagues from around the world and work together to advance the mission of Chai Lifeline and improve the important work we all do,” said Rabbi Gobioff.
Participating regional directors included: Rabbi Shlomo Crandall, Midwest; Racheli Daniel, Mid-Atlantic; Rabbi Sruli Fried, NJ/PA; Randi Grossman, West Coast; Esther Leah Sandhaus, Southeast; Yaacov Blanshay, Montreal; Rabbi Mordy Rothman, Toronto; Neville Goldschneider, UK; Avi Maier, Belgium; and Elad Maimon, Israel. Chai Lifeline is an international children’s health support network providing social, emotional, and financial assistance to children with life-threatening or lifelong illnesses and their families. To learn more, visit www.chailifeline.org.
Mesivta Netzach HaTorah Visits Rav Oelbaum in Queens
This past Thursday, after Shacharis and regular morning learning, the talmidim and rebbeim of Netzach traveled to Queens for a special shiur on Elul and divrei bracha from Rabbi Noach Oelbaum. After the shiur, the talmidim had the opportunity to ask questions to Rav Oelbaum, seeing firsthand the brilliance and depth of the Rav. Following Mincha and pizza in Queens, the Mesivta headed to Sky Zone in New Rochelle for their annual beginning of the year team building and fun with rebbeim and friends.
There are many parades that pass through our streets during the year, but leave it to TAG’s Ganger Early Childhood Division to come up with a unique parade for their talmidos. All kindergarten talmidos were invited to a special Alef Beis Parade of letters to kick off their curriculum for this coming school year.
Did you know? Date palms can tolerate salt and can even be irrigated with ocean water Bais Yaakov Ateres Miriam High School Begins Its Inaugural Year
On September 7, the very first ninth grade class of BYAM HS entered the front doors of their new home, located at the Young Israel of Hewlett. They were greeted by music, fanfare and, of course, their principal, Mrs. Ruchie Sokoloff, and Menahel, Rabbi Nosson Neuman. This was after their orientation the previous day, including a review of their school day with Mrs. Sokoloff and a fabulous G.O. breakout created and implemented by Ms. Hodayah Kuighadoush (G.O. Coordinator). It included dancing and refreshments and gift of a tote bag emblazoned with the G. O. theme “What’s Cooking with G. O. in BYAM HS?” That theme was hinted at in a June teambuilding event that the girls had previously attended at Apron Masters.
The first week of school was notable at BYAM HS for the rapt attention to new learning skills as the girls found their way into their classrooms. They met with new teachers and were acclimated to the impressive variety of subjects, both Kodesh and Chol, and the relatable, warm, and masterful teachers who they are getting to know on a daily basis.
With Boruch Hashem that encouraging and exciting start, positivity radiates from staff and students alike. Upcoming events include Open House (for current 8th graders and their parents) scheduled for Wednesday evening, November 2nd, 7:30 PM at Beth Sholom in Lawrence. That will be followed by the Entrance Exam, Sunday, November 6, at 10 AM. For further information about BYAM HS, kindly contact our school office at hsoffice@baisyaakovam.org.
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Around the Community Assemblywoman Amato to Oppose Seagirt Plan
Assemblywoman Stacey Pheffer Amato met with school administrators and parents to discuss the hazards of the potential Seagirt Boulevard redesign. The city-based project has garnered extreme pushback from local and non-local residents and has been openly opposed by Assemblywoman Pheffer Amato. The Assemblywoman referred to the plan as “nuts” and insisted that the NYC Department of Transportation must “go back to the drawing board and create a plan that reflects the will of the community” as the project was moved ahead without community support.
Lev Chana is very excited to have their own Grow Torah Garden this year! Grow Torah enables students to experience the awe and wonder of nature while connecting the miracle of Hashem’s world to the parsha, yomim tovim and middot tovot
HANC High School Back in Action
To kick off the year, HANC High School held its annual Opening Ceremony and back to school Senate Event. Seniors, freshmen, and new faculty were introduced to the student body with warm welcomes. Prior to the ceremony, the Class of 2023 received their senior shirts and then made their grand entrance into the auditorium with ruach and excitement. A first at the ceremony was the parade of departments down the aisle, props in hand, celebrating the new academic year.
Students had the opportunity to hear from Rabbi Slomnicki, who, in his multi-media presentation, discussed student commitment to academics, extracurricular, and to their personal lives.
The student body also heard from Student Senate Co-Presidents Oriel Atias and Lea Bassali who each addressed the students and informed them of the many exciting ideas and events that the senate has in store this coming school year.
HANC students were treated to a pizza lunch and a dessert buffet of Rita’s Italian Ices and popcorn organized by the Student Senate. It was so nice to see everyone again after the summer vacation. We can’t wait to see what this year has in store for us.
Members of the Five Towns community joined together at the home of Dr. and Mrs. Rabin Rahmani to help YATAR, an authorized division of the Israeli police force
What does the wife of a world-famous singer, the niece of a renowned rosh yeshiva, and 750 special-needs children and their families have in common? One place that brings light into all of their lives: The Special Children’s Center.
Since its inception in 1996, founders Jenine Shwekey and Chaya Bender knew that they needed to fill a void in servicing local differently-abled kids during afterschool hours as well as Sundays so that their families could continue to thrive and function while raising their special needs child. Their motivation dated back to high school when, as teenagers, they volunteered working with special-needs children for many hours each week. These experiences not only left Jenine and Chaya with a strong impression, but they also served as the impetus for their life’s mission – helping special neshamos of Klal Yisrael.
After triumphantly piloting the program in New Jersey and then in Brooklyn seven years ago, The Center answered the call for help from parents in the Five Towns.
With their highly-trained and motivated staff, all members of the Center’s team (children, parents, and staff) benefit from their programming including after school, Sundays, legal holidays, integrated daycare, inhome programs and community habilitation in making an unbelievable mark on these precious lives.
Rochel Levy, Five Towns mom of an 8-year-old Center participant, boasts of her gratitude and appreciation for The Special Children’s Center, which has literally been life-altering. “I’m not exaggerating when I say that my life revolves around when the Center is open,” Mrs. Levy exclaims. “My son is safe and happy and surrounded by positive energy. The staff gets it, and they deliver fabulously for the kids. The positive impact on the families cannot be explained to someone who doesn’t live our reality. It has been nothing less than life-changing.”
Julie Saal, mother of 6-year-old Center attendee, also agrees. “The Special Children’s Center of the Five Towns is a loving, energetic, and exciting space for my son while simultaneously providing myself and the rest of my family a respite to recharge.”
Now in their new 14,000 square-foot facility (formerly Life Fitness in Lawrence), the Five Towns branch of The Special Children’s Center hosts a huge sensory gym, music room, art room, movement room, and classrooms for Jewish learning – with more to come! Please look out for our GRAND OPENING, when we will welcome the community to celebrate and share in our beautiful new home. For more inquiries on how to be a part of The Special Children’s Center (as a participant, volunteer, or donor), please call/text 917-780-5012 or email fivetowns@thecenterny.org.
Hands-On Learning at Yeshiva Ateres Eitz Chaim
Chazal teach, “Eino dome reya l’shmiah,” one cannot compare hearing about something to actually seeing it. Yeshiva Ateres Eitz Chaim gives their talmidim this unique opportunity, when learning about different concepts, providing the talmidim with incredible hands-on experiences. When learning about the special minhagim, such as Tashlich and the Rosh Hashana Simanim, the talmidim experienced an amazing “hands on” lesson. They were treated to a special boating ride where each talmid had the opportunity to catch his own fish and use it for the “Siman.” They also enjoyed an awesome shiur on the boat learning and discussing many topics in Chazal about fish, rivers, and oceans.
Talmidim were also zoche to hear divrei chizuk and bracha before the Yomim Noraim from the Krula Rebbe in Williamsburg. The Rebbe was thrilled to meet the talmidim and encouraged the Yeshiva to continue their “hands-on” educational trips.
In Yeshiva Ateres Eitz Chaim’s Life Skills Program, the talmidim had the opportunity to learn the skills of note-taking from one of the best, Honorable Ronald Goldman, Village Administrator-Clerk/Treasurer of Lawrence.
Honey is sweet, but it is much sweeter when you experience the process. Talmidim enjoyed a tour at Rockland Bee Tours to learn about the process of how bees make honey. They also learned why we specifically use honey, as opposed to other sweet things, on Rosh Hashana.
L’Shana tova u’mesuka!
Assemblywoman Stacey Pheffer Amato, Mayor Ben Weinstock, Trustee Izzy Wasser, Pesach Osina, representative of the NYC Council Speaker Adrienne Adams, and Pinny Hikind of the NYC Comptroller’s Office at the local Chasdei Lev food distribution event this week
Getting To Know You: SKA Freshmen Experience
The ninth graders of the Stella K. Abraham High School for Girls had a wonderful opportunity to start the school year in a relaxed and convivial atmosphere at their Freshmen Experience held on Wednesday, September 14, on the beautiful grounds of Camp Kaylie. Spending time making new friends and meeting administrators and grade level advisors in a cozy setting gave the girls a comfortable foundation to their first year of high school.
The getaway was a great way for the grade to bond! Building Balloon Towers and Bucket Brigade competitions together with other games, activities and workshops enabled the girls to once again mingle and meet students from other elementary schools. “Grade Achdut,” a session presented by SKA Associate Principal Ms. Elena Flaumenhaft, who works directly with the freshmen, focused on each girl’s individual strengths and talents combining to make the Class of ‘27 one of the best yet. The new students also took the time to write letters to themselves reflecting on their hopes for their year, opening their correspondence in the final month of school.
In addition to Ms. Flaumenhaft, SKA’s Freshmen Experience was also enhanced by the presence of Director of Student Programming Rabbi Yosef Zakutinsky, who organized this amazing event, Dean of Students Mrs. Shira Englander, 9th Grade Level Advisors Mrs. Tzippy Calm, Mrs. Rachel Josef and Mrs. Gabby Shultz, and SKA’s Student Council members and their advisor, Ms. Sydney Daitch.
SKA’s Class of 2027 is off to a great start!
Around the Community A Sweet Start for BY5T Shulamith SWO Back-to-School Carnival
The girls at Bais Yaakov of the Five Towns have been preparing for Rosh Hashana with plenty of hands-on learning experiences! From tasting apples dipped in honey to learning the brachos we make on all of the simanin, the students are going to be more than ready to enthusiastically participate in every aspect of the Yom Tov.
The talmidos were treated to a very special visitor this week. Chaim Shalom Leibowitz, the Baal Tokeah at Kehilas Ahavas Yisrael, brought his shofar to school for an interactive workshop. The girls listened attentively as he practiced blowing all of the kolos, and they were amazed by how much effort it takes to make the sounds come out just right.
The girls are eagerly entering the Yomim Noraim with great excitement thanks to the creativity and commitment of their amazing moros. Bouncy houses, cotton candy, face-painting – oh my! Shulamith SWO hosted a back-to-school carnival to welcome new and returning students on Sunday, September 18.
The turnout was incredible! Hundreds of participants enjoyed the many exciting attractions and carnival booths, run by our own SHS students.
It was wonderful to see all the smiling faces of our students and their families, energized and excited for the year ahead.
Did you know? Date palm trees need at least 100 days of 100 degrees heat and plenty of water to produce the best quality fruit
First graders in Mrs. Esther Parnes’ CAHAL class at Yeshiva Ketana of Long Island play a “Touch and Read” matching game to help improve reading fluency and decoding skills. Cedarhurst Mayor Benjamin Weinstock and Trustees Ari Brown, Israel Wasser and Daniel Plaut along with DA Anne Donnelly attended a press conference for all Nassau Villages calling on the Governor and State Legislature to repeal bail reform
MTA talmidim and parents gathered together to learn about the Yomim Noraim
DRS Freshmen Shabbaton
The excitement was palpable as freshmen at DRS Yeshiva High School eagerly boarded the buses on Thursday evening, ready to head to the annual Freshman Shabbaton, held at Camp Kaylie. “The goal of the Shabbaton is for everyone meet each other and create a sense of achdut within the grade in an enjoyable and fun way,” said DRS Menahel Rabbi Yisroel Kaminetsky to the freshman class.
Upon arrival, students unpacked, davened Maariv, and headed to the gym for “Wacky Olympics.” Students faced off in shiur-vs.-shiur competitions in a variety of events, in which every student had a unique role. The night was far from over, as students enjoyed a latenight barbecue and basketball in the gym with their new friends. Students woke up Friday morning, eager for the events to come. After Shacharis, breakfast and shiur with the freshmen Rabbeim, students took to the gridiron for a competitive flag football tournament, while bonding with new friends. After the tournament, the class enjoyed the camp’s spacious facilities, and went go-carting, swimming and played sports before preparing for an amazing Shabbat to come.
All 100 members of this year’s freshmen class – the largest in the school’s history – headed into Shabbos unified as one with tremendous energy and unity. After davening and a festive seuda with zemirot and divrei Torah, the freshmen enjoyed a DRS-style tisch with Rabbi Kaminetsky and their rebbeim, as they sung, enjoyed cholent, kugel and candy and experienced the joy and ruach of Shabbos together as one class. The spirit continued the next morning, as a lively Shacharis, kiddush and intriguing shiurim highlighted the day. After a scrumptious Shabbos lunch with zemirot and singing, students continued forming unbreakable friendships with one another and learned together in the Beis Medrash. Following Mincha and Shalosh Seudos, students gathered for an inspirational and memorable kumzitz, joining together to usher the Shabbos out with song, achdut and ruach. Following a beautiful Maariv and Havdalah, students boarded the busses and left the Shabbaton with a dose of ruach and achdut for the year to come.
Ezra Academy –A Weekend of Chizuk
As the Yamim Noraim approach, the Queens students and alumni of Ezra Academy were treated to a special weekend of chizuk with the Mashgiach Ruchani of the Yeshiva, Rabbi Elie Geller, beginning with a young couple’s shiur on Thursday evening, September 15, at the home of graduates Gabriel Borokhov (class of ’19) and Abigail Aronova-Borokhov (class of ’19), and continuing through Shabbos with beautiful onegim and seudot where words of Torah were shared and singing could be heard for miles. The meals were hosted by graduates and families of Ezra Academy who wanted to help the men and women of Queens prepare spiritually for the Rosh Hashana holiday. (Special thank you to the Aminov and Sofiev families.) Rabbi Geller spoke at several different places in the Fresh Meadows and Jamaica Estates neighborhoods. Each lecture was met with enthusiasm as people took the messages to heart.
Although this was not a typical planned and sponsored Ezra event, as Mashgiach Ruchani, Rabbi Elie Geller (and family) put forth tremendous efforts to reach out to and positively affect the extended Ezra family whenever possible. Ezra Academy thanks the Gellers for going above and beyond.
YOSS Honors Our Heroes
Mrs. Sebag’s second grade class at YOSS learned about the terrible events that took place on September 11, 2001. They spent time remembering the day and honoring its heroes. They read the book Fireboat, written by Maira Kalman, which tells the true story of the John J Harvey, a decommissioned 1930’s fire boat that went back into action on that day and was used to save lives and put out the fires at the site where the buildings collapsed. The class was then visited by the renowned Inspector Richie Taylor. Inspector Taylor is the highest ranking frum police officer in the New York Police Department. He spoke to the class about being an Orthodox Jewish police officer and specifically about the role he played as an EMT on the scene during 9/11. The boys found his stories to be fascinating and tremendously moving. The boys then wrote letters to first responders and members of the military, thanking them for their brave service to our country and for keeping us safe.
Although these second-grade boys are not old enough to remember the events of September 11th, the lessons learned in Mrs. Sebag’s class, as well as their firsthand interaction with Inspector Taylor, will be etched into their memories forever.
The children at Gan Chamesh enjoyed a hands-on, fun-filled Rosh Hashana fair that helped them to internalize the meaning of Rosh Hashana using all their senses. The Rosh Hashana fair is an innovative experience where children explore, experiment, and love to learn in a meaningful way.
The JSL Regular Season Tips Off
JSL’s regular season began, and there were some memorable performances!
The day kicked off with K/P Soccer, where David Ghoori had a hat trick to lead team Simcha Day Camp over Gourmet Glatt. Shimmy Greenspan had 2 goals in Home & Stone’s game against Hewlett Auto Body. In K/P Hockey, Yumi Ehrlichman was the game MVP of the morning matchup.
In 1st/2nd grade indoor Football, Yehuda Yakubov had an incredible sliding touchdown for Westwood Realty in their game against The Rebbe’s Choice. Gavriel Selengut of team KolSave made a one-handed catch against team ARG.
The afternoon slate of basketball games kicked off with a 14-8 win for team Maidenbaum. Eli Oratz was the game MVP. Triple Net Group held off Island Roofing 20-14. In 4th/5th, Alpert Financial snuck past Town Appliance 1715. 925 Sterling defeated Carving Block 22-14.
In 6th-8th Basketball, Game MVP Eli Davidowitz scored 7 straight points in the last 1:30 of play to give Paradigm the narrow win over Wieder Orthodontics in a back-and-forth game. Aviv Shatay continued his JSL dominance from last season with a monster performance, leading 5 Towns Pediatric Dentistry to 64 points in their win over 5 Towns Orthodontics!
The hockey slate featured some great games. Additionally, every boy received a hockey water bottle courtesy of JSL and Town Appliance. In 1st Grade Hockey, Judaica Plus and Built by Nate tied 3-3. In 2nd/3rd, JNT tied Sharona Beck Realty after a three-round shootout. Yosef Wielgus had an incredible effort in goal and Aaron Silverman played great defense to give Paradigm the 5-2 win over ARG. Elegant Lawns shut out Posh Home & Bath 3-0.
In 4th/5th, Gavriel Abittan scored 4 goals to give 5 Towns Pediatric Dentistry the win over 925 Sterling. Benji Somerstein of Alpert Financial scored a hat trick against Town Appliance. Cheskel Jeidel scored 2 goals for AutoClick against Meat & Board.
In 6th-8th, 5 Towns Central held on to defeat BayRock Insurance 7-5 behind Yechiel Taitlebaum’s hat trick. Posh Home & Bath escaped with a 6-5 victory over Wieder Orthodontics. Five Towns Orthodontics shut out JNT 5-0. JSL is the premier local sports league for boys from Darchei, YKLI and across the community. Games are played each Sunday indoors in local gyms. Winter Registration opens soon for the next season that starts in December. Visit 5tjsl.com to see more info about the league!
This past Monday evening, Madraigos, the organization that tirelessly works to meet the needs of the community, held an educational event for the community, an initiative of its Parenting Matters program. The event, held in Young Israel of Lawrence Cedarhurst, featured Rav Chaim Aryeh Zev Ginzburg, shlita, rav of the Chofetz Chaim Torah Center of Cedarhurst, as well as Matis Miller, LCSW ACT, DBTLBC, Founder and Director of The Center for Cognitive & Behavioral Therapy of New Jersey.
Rabbi Dov Silver, Founder and Executive V.P., Madraigos, welcomed the attendees and thanked the people who helped bring the program to fruition. The first speaker, Rabbi Ginzburg, shlita, focused on the concept of resilience in the Torah. He shared countless stories about his experiences with raising children which highlighted the importance of building a strong future generation.
The event continued with a special presentation from Matis Miller, LCSW who focused on strategies and skills which can instill that resilience in children. He explained the danger involved in enabling negative behaviors in their children and the importance of letting them learn how to deal with the little frustrations that come their way as a way of preparing them for real-world challenges. Matis’s words were inspiring and practical as he offered concrete suggestions to everyone in the room.
One parent remarked, “It was very enlightening. I am walking out with a new mindset and an array of practical tools to help strengthen and guide my children.”
A therapist who attended commented, “I see from my clients that this topic specifically is one which needs to be talked about more and Madraigos filled that exact need.”
Mrs. Mindi Werblowsky, LCSW, Clinical Director, Madraigos, commented, “This event was borne from the questions that we are hearing from our clients and our desire to provide them with the answers and resources they are seeking. We are just here to assist them on their journey.”
Overall, the feeling at this Parenting Matters event was learning and growth for parents and professionals alike. Madraigos extends sincere hakaros hatov to the event’s speakers as well as the venue for enabling us to continue servicing our community. Parents are encouraged to register for the Parenting Matters weekly support group, Effective Parenting of Teens and Young Adults, Group #12, which will be starting this fall. To register or learn more about upcoming Madraigos’ Parenting Matters programs, please contact Mindi Werblowsky at mwerblowsky@ madraigos.org or 516-371-3250 x 112.
Talmidim from Yeshiva Kol Torah celebrating a seudas hoda’ah upon Rabbi Opoczynski’s safe return to yeshiva Mercaz Academy’s GrowTorah program has started, and the Mercaz students reaped the benefit. Farmer Menuchah Schuman arrived for her first outdoor lessons connecting conservation and agriculture to the Torah portion and holidays. Students from nursery through sixth grade learned about Torah and the natural world, with different methodology and content but the same significant lessons.
The fifth and sixth grades suggested many occasions where Torah and nature intersect, including Mishnah Zeraim, dealing with laws of agriculture; Gan Eden, and the trees growing there; and the midrash of how Har Sinai flowered when the Torah was given. A student cited a pasuk remembered from the Torah reading, etz chaim he lamachazikim bah, comparing the Torah to a tree of life.
With Rosh Hashana approaching, connections were drawn between the agricultural cycle and the cycle of the year. Farmer Menuchah mentioned the shalosh regalim, the three festivals that are associated with a specific harvest time.
Last week’s parsha, Ki Tavo, tells of the mitzvah of bikkurim and the importance of sharing portions of our harvest with those in need, so Farmer Menuchah discussed how we could achieve the values of this mitzvah. Mercaz Academy students of all ages realized that they can give tzedakah in the form of fresh produce from our GrowTorah garden to people who are hungry. Students harvested golden, ripe squash to be donated to those in need. Farmer Menuchah will bring them to the food pantry at the Jewish Family Services in Teaneck, NJ, along with harvests from many other schools’ GrowTorah gardens.
Mercaz Academy students also picked sprigs of rosemary, sage, and basil and performed the mitzvah of making a bracha on the beautiful smell, borei isvei besamim. Students who chose to bring their herbs home had the ability to do another mitzvah with them by using them to season their food. In this way, the herbs can be included in the bracha over the food as well, and Mercaz Academy appreciates the number of mitzvot that have grown in our garden along with the produce.
It was an eventful week at the Samuel and Elizabeth Bass Golding Elementary School in West Hempstead. Heralding the upcoming holiday of Rosh Hashana, the school welcomed Tzivos Hashem’s Shofar Factory to give their annual presentation to the sixth graders on how a shofar is created. Thanks to the generous support of the HANC PTA, the shofar factory has become an annual tradition that truly rings in the Yamim Noaraim.
In keeping with this year’s theme of “Let’s Grow Together,” the students at HANC have begun tending to the newly planted Grow Torah Garden where the children will be participating in lessons connecting the weekly Parsha to agriculture and sustainable farming. Grow Torah aims to cultivate a more passionate, compassionate and sustainable future driven by Torah values. The organization develops experiential environment education programs for Jewish institutions throughout the country. This national program has planted gardens for seven schools and five camps and provides guidance in maintaining the gardens and in teaching the children about the importance of caring for the plants in Hashem’s magnificent world. Thanks to a generous donation from HANC’s Grandparents Giving Circle, the school is privileged to have seven large planters filled with flowers and herbs that the students are now stewarding and curating under the guidance of Mrs. Rachel Steinberg, HANC Library Media Specialist. The students will be given monthly lessons connecting Torah and nature by Mrs. Michal Wasser, Assistant Principal, and Mrs. Lisa Lowy, Director of Admissions. As the year progresses, the students will get to see how their efforts help affect the growth of the communal garden.
Later in the week, the entire student body participated in a unique art experience. Through a grant from the Grandparent Giving Circle, with a goal to provide special and unique programs for the students, HANC welcomed the famous Pop Art Rabbi, Rabbi Yitzchok Moully, who engaged each and every child in the school to help create a school- wide original work of art. Demonstrating his multi-disciplinary conceptual art skills, Rabbi Moully explained that all of our energy emanates from the Torah. To illustrate this concept, each student was invited to spray paint on a large canvas to create a magnificent mural depicting our Torah values. Every person in the school was given the opportunity to add their own letters and flourishes of color and the collective effort created a truly unique work of art that will be hung prominently in the school hallway.
Around the Community HANC High School Freshman Retreat
The HANC High School Class of 2026 was inaugurated into high school at the annual Freshman Retreat last Monday and Tuesday, September 12 and 13, at Camp Nageela in Fallsburg, NY. The students participated in two days of amazing activities, entertainment and “just getting to know one another.” The trip was chaperoned by administrators, mechnachim, and members of HANC’s Student Life Team.
The retreat started with an incredible hike in the Englewood Cliffs, where students challenged themselves by climbing steep stone steps that descended to “Peanut Leap Cascade.” Students were awed by the beautiful waterfalls and cliffs surrounding them, and took pictures at lookout points along the path. They finished their morning with a delicious pizza lunch at Sheli’s in Monsey, NY, and relaxed on the bus as they made their way to Dave and Busters in the Palisades mall. Students spent their time shooting hoops, playing video games and amassing tickets to buy items at the concession.
Once the group arrived at Camp Nageela, Rabbi Hulkower welcomed the class and encouraged them to take advantage of the opportunity to bond with classmates and make new friends. Students relaxed before returning to the Dining Hall for a barbeque dinner.
A highlight of the evening was a game show “Let’s Make a Deal” hosted by Rabbi Hulkhower. Students competed in various challenges and were coaxed to decide between monies earned and mystery prizes. The Freshmen then took advantage of the beautiful fields, playing sports before lights out.
The second day of the retreat began with tefilla, a hearty breakfast, and meaningful learning sessions. This was followed by an amazing group team-building activity of boat building. Everyone had an awesome time and made new friends.
Yashar koach to Rabbi Daniel Mezei, Director of Student Life, and his team, Rabbi Judah Hulkhower and Rabbi Aharon Friedler for organizing the entire program. Thank you to Rabbi Slomnicki, Ms. Zucker, Mr. Smus, Ms. Ganchrow and to grade mechanchim Mrs. Jenna Zelka and Rabbi Nafi Orlofsky for joining the retreat. This event could not have been possible without the team of senior advisors: Ben Goldstein, Devorah Woznica, Dovid Rahmanou, Lea Bassali, Nava Talitian, Oriel Atias and Tehilla Rabanipour.
Did you know? When a boy is born in Oman, the family plants a date tree
SHS launched “Just One Hour” last week, a powerful and game changing initiative that capitalizes on the openness to change and growth we all experience at this time of year, as the Yamim Noraim approach. The idea is to commit to one hour a day during which you put away your phone, reclaiming your control over it. It doesn’t have to be the same hour every day, and it doesn’t require any public commitment; this is simply an opportunity for students and faculty alike to recognize that as beholden as we sometimes are to our devices, we are stronger than the impulse to constantly check our screens.
JOH was introduced in teacher-led small group sessions, during which students shared their struggles with overcoming the attachment to their phones. They recognized that to some extent it had taken ownership of them and discussed strategies of taking back that control. Utilizing Catherine Price’s “How to Break Up With Your Phone,” a piece primarily geared toward adults, the groups considered achievable, sustainable steps to move in a positive direction.
The whole school then gathered for a finale to the program, where the initiative was officially launched. They were encouraged to join a WhatsApp chat to build momentum, where each participant could post when she completed her hour. The chat is populated by students and faculty, all working together to make this habit stick. Feedback has already been exceptionally positive, with students reporting that they have rediscovered hobbies long ago discarded and have found time in their day for responsibilities previously relegated to the sidelines of their schedules.
Remembering All Our Singles at the Gural JCC
What comes to mind when someone asks you if you know of any singles? Perhaps your brother who is just starting to date or your best friend’s daughter who has been dating for a while.
Unfortunately, there are singles out there of every age and older singles often get relegated to the backs of our minds.
The Marion and Aaron Gural JCC has been providing a wide range of services to our community for over four decades. Through our Jewish Women’s Leadership Council (JWLC), and our Kadima program for single Jewish parents, we are acutely aware and particularly sensitive to the needs of the older singles in our neighborhood. To that end, this past weekend, we hosted a Game Night for Orthodox Jewish singles ages 50-65, where over seventy singles from neighborhoods near and far attended.
Some of the singles were divorced, others widows, and some never married but they all came with smiles on their faces and an appreciation for an evening planned just for them. The program included light refreshments and a wine tasting event courtesy of Spruce d ‘Vine in Cedarhurst, entertainment by Daniel Stroock and a JCC moderator who spoke to the large crowd with warmth and humor about dating experiences and the audience’s take on what works and does not.
“Thank you for arranging such a fun and well-organized event,” one grateful single exclaimed.
“This was a long-overdue and much-needed program,” exclaimed yet another participant.
“It was much more entertaining and offered more comfortable ice-breaking talks than any other event I have been at,” claimed another enthusiastic attendee.
The evening ended with more conversation, the exchange of numbers, and sincere expressions of appreciation by the singles.
The large group of JCC volunteers who worked hard on the program and wanted so much for it to be a success included Debra and David Brody who married after meeting at our last mixer several years ago.
JCC Cultural Arts Director Rachayle Deutsch explains: “We don’t know if any matches will have been made tonight. If so, wonderful! What we were more interested in is that the older singles feel good about themselves and enjoy an evening out. We hope many good things emerge from tonight’s program, including networking and new friendships. We hope tonight’s participants will realize that they are in our minds and in our thoughts. They are not forgotten.” To find out more about this or any other of our JCC events, call the JCC at (516)569-6733 or visit our website www.guraljcc.org.
The Jewish Home | SEPTEMBER 22, 2022 Sweet Beginnings at Shulamith ECC
“Dip the apple in the honey…”. The beginning of the new year is as sweet as honey at Shulamith Early Childhood Center. The children are delighted to be reunited with their friends and devoted morot. Each day at Shulamith ECC brings new opportunities to learn and discover in every curriculum area.
As Rosh Hashana approaches, the children are immersed in the sights, smells and sounds of the upcoming Chag. They use all of their senses to learn about apples and honey. Using tools of investigation, our young scientists examine a variety of colored apples from peel to core and use rich adjectives to describe the differences in taste. They taste the sticky honey and watch its slow drip in complete fascination. They compare the taste of honey to pickles and spicy potato chips and conclude that they want to ask Hashem for a sweet new year, not a sour or spicy one!
Since research shows that young children learn best through hands-on experiences, the children are given many opportunities to examine a real shofar in
Shulamith SWO Kickoff Event
Shulamith mothers enjoyed a beautiful and inspiring evening at our annual SWO kickoff event, featuring speaker Jackie Bitton, who was absolutely captivating! We are so grateful to Elisheva and Avishai Neuman for opening their home to us and to Ahava Feldman for heading the beautiful decor. A big thank you to our incredible sponsors who made this event possible: Yael and Ari Cukier, Sara Honikman, Perel Ash, Devorah Wachsler, Arthur and Leah Gutman, and Daniella Graff. the classroom science center and think about where it came from. A real Ba’al Tokeyah, Mr. Hillel Tuchman, came to Shulamith ECC and showed the children many different shofarot; from a tiny shofar to a very long twisty one. As the children sat in rapt silence, Mr. Tuchman blew all of the different kolot for them.
We at Shulamth ECC wish the community a shana tova u’metukah; a wonderful year filled with sweetness, good health and happiness for all.
YSZ HS for Girls Kicks Off Year With Student Retreat
On Wednesday, September 14, students arrived bright and early to YSZ HS for Girls in Queens and boarded a bus for a trip they knew they would soon not forget. With Mrs. Zerykier, Morah Balakhaneh, and Ms. Greenberg in tow, students looked forward to feeling the warmth and encouragement that YSZ is famous for in a new and exciting venue. The retreat was located in beautiful and scenic Pennsylvania where students could participate in many different types of bonding activities. These activities focused on team building, fostering friendships, and motivating students to step out of their comfort zones. With the theme of “stretching yourself,” students had the opportunity to find and hone their own unique strengths and abilities.
As soon as the students arrived at the SkyTop Lodge, they were led by grade to the first set of activities. Freshmen were tasked with boat building, while sophomores participated in a scavenger hunt. Naomi Mordukhaev, a sophomore, appreciated how each activity allowed the girls to bond together while at the same time allowing them to work on their team-building skills. Students then participated in what many considered the highlight of the retreat. Students engaged in a ropes course activity that truly encapsulated the theme of retreat. For many students, the ropes course was new and unchartered territory. With the encouragement and positivity radiating from both grades, many students conquered their fears and walked away feeling empowered and strong.
The rest of the night was spent reflecting, relaxing, and sharing how accomplished everyone felt. Morah Balakhaneh shared how much nachat it gave her to see how “mature, deep, and real each of the students’ reflections were.”
Thursday was another wonderful and action-packed day. Students participated in a variety of activities such as water coloring, keychain crafting, and a delicious salad-making “Chopped” style competition. Hodaya Yaacobov expressed how meaningful minchah by the lake was. “Looking at the water and seeing how Hashem created everything made me feel so connected to Hashem,” she said.
Before dinner, Mrs. Zerykier gave the girls an inspiring Torah chat. With Rosh Hashana approaching, students were given the tools on how they can continue to become their best selves this year. The day ended with a moving and meaningful kumzits. Ms. Greenberg shared how wonderful it was to see “all the girls coming together and how much of their heart they gave to each activity.” The memories made on this year’s retreat will surely be the stepping stones to a wonderful and growth-filled year at YSZ HS for Girls!
On Thursday, the students at Rambam were honored to see a sneak peek of the opening minutes of an incredibly important film: “J’Accuse!: A Cry from the Killing Pits of Lithuania.” One of the makers of the film, Grant Gochin of Los Angeles, addressed the students about the horrors that befell Lithuanian Jews during the Holocaust and what he and others are doing to set the facts straight and bring justice to the memory of those who were murdered.
Grant Gochin is leading the fight against Lithuania’s Center for the Study of the Genocide and Resistance of Residents of Lithuania, or Genocide Center. They posit that Lithuanian Nazi collaborator Jonas Noreika was actually an anti-Nazi hero in disguise. Gochin, however, maintains that Noreika was “directly responsible for the murder of his relatives in Šiauliai” and calls for Genocide Center apologies and the end of “equivocations of Holocaust denial.”
The nature of Mr. Gochin’s film follows his quest for justice and how it is paralleled by the story of a writer, Silvia Foti, currently living in Chicago. The personal account of how Mr. Gochin visited the killing pits of Lithuania and discovered that Noreika was behind it, converges with Ms. Foti’s story as she learns about her personal history. Ms. Foti’s story has been published in her book, The Nazi’s Granddaughter: How I Discovered My Grandfather Was a War Criminal, and tells the shocking story of how she discovered that her childhood hero, her grandfather, Jonas Noreika, was actually a war criminal involved in the deaths of some 14,000 Jews (many in the town of Telsai whose survivors later transplanted to the Telz Yeshiva) included the Lithuanian relatives of Mr. Gochin. The Lithuanian government and people have not come to terms with their atrocious past and have made Noreika a national hero, named schools named after him, and have monuments honoring his memory.
Mr. Gochin spoke to the Rambam students about the horrific history of anti-Semitism in Lithuania and how centuries of lies about Jews sowed the seeds of hatred. When the opportunity to murder Jews presented itself thanks to the Nazis, Mr. Gochin remarked that “in a typical village there was fifty-percent participation in the killing of the Jews and the rest of the Lithuanian people did nothing.”
The assembly was informative, moving, and the message from Mr. Gochin to never forget, get involved, and fight for the truth is paramount. He concluded by saying that “not honoring the memories of the dead would be killing them all over again.”
Rabbi Zev Meir Friedman, Rosh Mesivta of Rambam, who introduced the film and Mr. Gochin, also pledged on behalf of Rambam that they would do their part to let the Lithuanians know that they have not forgotten.
Shulamith students are getting ready for Rosh Hashana Candidate for Governor, Lee Zeldin, on the campaign trail in Monsey, NY
Scenes of the beginning of the school year at HAFTR
Rosh Hashana Preparation at IVDU 5 Towns
The sounds of the shofar are heard loud and clear in the halls of IVDU 5 Towns as the students and staff are busy preparing for Rosh Hashana. The students have been busy learning all the different minhagim of Rosh Hashana and the importance of them. The students in Morah Frumit and Morah Karina’s classes have been tasting all different kinds of apples and voting on their favorite ones. They have been using a multi-sensory approach to learning about the upcoming Yom Tov; tasting the foods, feeling the bumpy and smooth shofar, and coloring their own arts and crafts projects. Morah Tova’s students have made beautiful honey dishes that will adorn their yom tov tables. Rabbi Maman has been teaching the older boys about teshuva and how we ask for forgiveness from Hashem and from our friends.
The Jewish Home | SEPTEMBER 22, 2022 JEP/REN A Resounding Success
One of the original charity-sponsored real estate networking events in NY, JEP/REN, reached a new level of impact this year. Last week, about four hundred people from the real estate field spent an evening in Manhattan networking, making business connections, enjoying great food and drink, and ultimately benefiting JEP and Camp Nageela.
In the weeks leading up to JEP/ REN7, the excitement kept building as more and more sponsors jumped on board. The sponsors wanted to use the event to spread their influence and bring clients and potential clients to a classy venue with upscale food and a focus on business. As the event drew closer, the word began spreading in the media that a must-go event was happening, and the reservations started pouring in. The excitement really grew when it was announced that Steven Vegh, of Westwood Realty, would be receiving the Mark Ramer Building People Award. By the afternoon before the event, registration had to be closed.
The longtime main sponsors of JEP/ REN, Meridian Capital and Riverside Abstract, were joined by over 20 other sponsors. Yoel Zagelbaum of Riverside, who presented the award to Steven Vegh, said, “We are proud to partner with JEP and Camp Nageela and all the good work they do.”
Kevan Tague of Media Sponsor The Real Deal said, “The Real Deal was proud to partner with JEP/REN and had a great time attending. We met great people in real estate and can’t wait to partner again on a larger scale”
Rivka Lock, coordinator of the entire event, was thrilled with the outcome. She reported, “So many of the participants were enthused about the quality of the crowd. There were many big players of the industry there, and there were discussions of deals going on all over. I can’t even count how many people left telling me that it was really worth their coming.”
Michael Schick, who is president of JEP-Long Island, once again presented a masterful spread of delicious food, paired with fine wines. For Michael, “Bringing together real estate leaders who are on top of their field, to help Jewish kids who are striving to grow, is the best thing I can do.”
Each year, JEP/REN presents an award to someone from the real estate industry, who exemplifies the ideal of using their talent and resources to better people’s lives in both real estate and philanthropy. This year’s awardee was Steven Vegh, of Westwood Realty. The award is named after Mark Ramer, who was a Camp Nageela board member and used his creativity to find many ways to help children and families.
The event will have many long-lasting effects. Of course, there are the potential deals that could come to fruition. There is also the effect that the funds raised will have on Jewish children. Rabbi David Shenker, Director of JEP/Naggela said, “This event highlights the strength of the JEP/Nageela concept – to harness the power of community to support our youth. With the funds raised at REN7, we are hiring a camper recruitment specialist who will work with our volunteers and participants to introduce them to our unique approach to Jewish camping.”
Stay tuned soon for an announcement on the date and location of JEP/REN8.
Around the Community Announcing The Ari Fuld Lion of Zion Prize 2022/5783
It was the Second Lebanon War. A battalion of IDF soldiers was moving forward on a city street as enemy fire rained upon them from a position above them. Ari Fuld and his unit ran into the field of fire to assist those soldiers. After 30 minutes, Ari’s unit was called back to help their own platoon, when some of the soldiers who had stayed behind sustained wounds from mortar fire.
Returning to his foxhole, Ari put his equipment bag back on when he suddenly felt something dripping out from underneath his combat vest. Fearing he was hit, Ari’s fellow soldiers checked to see if Ari was shot. But what they found was a larger mortar fragment that had landed in Ari’s foxhole and penetrated his equipment and water bag.
Heroism was one of Ari’s defining characteristics. Protecting Israel, Judaism, and the Jewish people, whether in combat, on the streets, or on social media was always paramount to Ari Fuld.
The incident in Lebanon strengthened Ari’s conviction that he had to redouble his efforts to teach Torah, support IDF soldiers, and defend the Jewish people.
But on 7 Tishrei 5779 (Sept. 16, 2018), while shopping in Gush Etzion, Ari was stabbed in the back by an Arab terrorist and mortally wounded. Ari’s last act of heroism was to chase down and shoot the Arab terrorist before the terrorist could harm the next victim he was running to stab. Ari was posthumously awarded the very rare Medal of Valor by the Israeli police.
Ari’s family and friends established The Ari Fuld Project to continue Ari’s mission and to keep his memory alive.
The Ari Fuld Project is working not just to support IDF reservists, security units, and spread Ari’s popular “Grill & Torah” series and Torah teachings but to help other Zionist activists and defenders of Israel succeed in their missions, too.
The Ari Fuld Project is proud to announce The First Annual Ari Fuld Lion of Zion Prize for 2022/5783.
The prize will be awarded to activists who have dedicated themselves to building Eretz Yisrael and defending the Jewish people.
After much deliberation, it was unanimously decided that the most worthy recipients for the first prize would be two people who have selflessly dedicated their lives, time, money and efforts to building the Land of Israel and teaching Judaism to the masses, exemplifying the exact message Ari always worked to convey.
The Ari Fuld Project is proud to announce that this year’s recipients are Jeremy Gimpel and Ari Abramowitz, partners in building the Arugot Farm in Gush Etzion.
In 2017, Ari Fuld visited the fledgling farm, just after they had started to build and protect this strategic region of then-barren land in Gush Etzion. Even then, it was evident that what they were doing was amazing but also incredibly challenging.
Miriam Fuld, Ari’s wife, said, “My Ari was so excited and proud to see the great work Ari and Jeremy were doing on the Arugot farm when he visited there in 2017. Ari and Jeremy love the land and people of Israel. They are builders of Israel, Zionist activists, and teachers of Torah. It was obvious they had to be our first recipients of The Ari Fuld Lion of Zion Prize.”
On Ari’s fourth Yahrzeit, Sunday, 7 Tishrei 5783 (October 2, 2022), The Ari Fuld Lion of Zion Prize 2022/5783 ceremony will be held live in Gush Etzion and livestreamed online for all to see. Other new and major projects that are in the works will also be announced.
We hope you join our mission and help support The Ari Fuld Project so we can continue spreading Ari’s message and his projects and continue to award The Ari Fuld Lion of Zion Prize well into the future. To donate and to view the livestream, go to: www.AriFuld.org/2022
The Jewish Home | SEPTEMBER 22, 2022 Learning for Life at Lander College for Men Beis Medrash L’Talmud
Up Close with Rosh HaYeshiva Rav Yonason Sacks
Students who spend a year or two learning in Israel post high school often feel that is where they grow to become their best selves. Many are concerned they will lose their momentum when they return to begin what their parents may call “real life.” Rabbi Yonason Sacks, Rosh HaYeshiva of Touro’s Lander College for Men Beis Medrash L’Talmud, is passionate about helping his talmidim continue their personal and spiritual growth trajectory once they touch down in the States.
A rosh yeshiva, rebbe, leading posek, rav and author of over 40 seforim, Rabbi Sacks shares his thoughts on preparing students for a real life that fuses Torah study, professional success, ethical conduct and family and communal responsibilities. He talks about varied programming to serve a diverse student population and new initiatives designed to meet the needs of students who wish to devote more time to Torah learning while still pursuing college studies.
What are your goals for the students at Lander College for Men Beis Medrash L’Talmud?
First and foremost, we know our students are looking for a continuation of their Israel experience. They seek high level learning, a connection with rebbeim, and an immersive yeshiva environment. When a student says, “I feel like I’m in Eretz Yisrael,” that is the biggest compliment. We work to offer this full-service one-stop yeshiva, combined with college and professional tracks. The students at Lander get a fully integrated experience. Premed and bio students start the first day of class learning the Rambam’s thoughts on key medical issues.
I believe integration is vital – we don’t create walls between the Torah learning and college classes. The Lander dean, Dr. Moshe Sokol, and I communicate daily and work to create a holistic environment where our values are reflected in all secular studies. The curriculum and extracurricular activities are all conducive to growth as a ben Torah.
What are the defining features and unique offerings students can find at Lander College for Men Beis Medrash L’Talmud?
We are deeply committed to enabling students to pursue professions al taharas hakadosh, through our convergence of the yeshiva and the career track.
One of the unique requirements at Lander College is for all students to take a full semester of shiurim where they learn the halachos of their major and future career, whether it be business and finance, psychology, or medicine.
We also offer a broad range of shiurim so students can learn at a level that’s right for them. We have nine different shiurim, so everyone finds the right fit. Personal relationships with our rebbeim is another hallmark of Lander College for Men Beis Medrash L’Talmid. Each rebbe is creative and talented, and most important, they all want to forge those meaningful connections that will outlast the students’ time at the yeshiva. Our talmidim have constant face time with their rebbeim.
What do you view as your most important role at the yeshiva?
Our talmidim are at a crossroads in their lives. They are poised to get married and embark on professional careers. These are likely the most significant decisions they will ever make, with far-reaching ramifications. My key role is to guide them as they make these choices and to prepare them for life as a ben Torah and all that entails – from interacting with their wives to anticipating challenges in the workplace and balancing personal and communal responsibilities. I and the other Lander rebbeim are not just teaching Gemara, we are showing them how to live a life where Torah values inform all they do.
My talmidim are like my children. When they leave, we still consider them a part of the yeshiva family and we stay in touch for years. More than 400 alumni come back to daven at the yeshiva for the Yomim Noraim, and our annual alumni family events draws nearly 800 people.
What new programs and initiatives are you launching for those seeking to spend more time learning, even as they pursue college studies and career preparation?
This year, we launched a new Masmidim Program, headed by veteran mechanech Rabbi Yosef Sonnenschein who is our menahel. This program is for those who want to dedicate more time to serious learning beyond their regular daily learning schedule. It is structured to enable these talmidim to build in additional sedorim into their schedule without interfering with their college studies. The Masmidim meet for an afternoon seder on Sundays, Tuesday, and Thursdays when they learn a set limud of Gemara bekiyus of the Yeshiva’s Masechta. Additionally, they have a special mishmar seder once a week as well as a machshava chabura given by rotating Masmidim to develop their speaking skills and ability to present on topics in Torah and machshava.
In addition to Masmidim, we now offer the College 2nd Seder Program which offers students the opportunity to learn an optional 2nd seder, in addition to morning and night sedarim. The 2nd seder program runs throughout the week during the 1st period of college classes and students work their college courseload into different time slots.
For students who choose to spend additional time learning after graduating college, we offer a Beis Medrash gap year that enables non-semicha students to learn full time after college, before entering the workforce or pursuing graduate and professional studies.
At Lander College for Men, our Smicha program attracts future congregational rabbis and rebbeim as well as future dentists, doctors and business professionals who seek to attain this knowledge and proficiency for themselves and their future families.
The students finish their college studies and enter the workforce. How do you prepare them to incorporate Torah study into their professional lives, once they are no longer in the yeshiva?
Part of what we teach is how to balance and integrate the different aspects of our lives. We talk to students about what may arise and how to handle these challenges from halachic and hashkafic perspectives. We give shiurim that cover shidduchim, marriage and chinuch. We focus on the Torah’s perspective on these issues so they gain clarity and understand where it differs from norms of today’s society.
We talk often about their future lives as husbands, professionals, baalei batim and bnei Torah and how to manage all those roles. One of my talmidim shared that being at Lander College for Men and juggling college, learning, lab, and night seder was the best preparation for life as it taught him how to balance multiple responsibilities and was truly a model for what he encountered later on in life. For more information, visit lcm.touro.edu.
ArtScroll/Mesorah Publications
By Rabbi Nachman Seltzer
In London. On Broadway. In an American army base in the Philippines during the Second World War. Wherever there are Jews … there are stories. And wherever there are stories … there is Rabbi Nachman Seltzer, keeping us spellbound and inspired.
It’s actually quite amazing how many stories Rabbi Seltzer finds. Even more amazing is how amazing those amazing stories are!
In I Have an Amazing Story for You! 4, we will read, in fascinating detail, about one woman’s near-death experience. We will watch the legendary Rav Yitzchok Dovid Grossman dancing – on a sidewalk on Broadway. We will discover almost unbelievable hashgachah pratis in a shul whose aron kodesh was, for no apparent reason, locked on Shabbos afternoon.
And as we read the incredible stories, we will find ourselves uplifted, inspired and, yes, amazed.
The following is one story from the book, titled The Direction Change. • • • • •
My daughter Sara had been dating for a long time. I felt as if I’d become acquainted with every shadchan in Eretz Yisrael, and all of them had become my personal friends. Though I had tried for a long time to narrow down what Sara was looking for, the only thing I knew for sure was that the boy had to be a fluent English speaker and not Israeli-born. At some point, I realized that I didn’t know what to do anymore. I no longer felt comfortable calling shadchanim when my daughter was so unclear about what she wanted.
One afternoon, I traveled to the Kosel to pour out my heart to Hashem.
I davened for a while longer and then I left the Kosel, satisfied that I had told Hashem what I’d come to say. • • • • •
The situation took a twist in a different direction a few months later.
We had been scheduled to go to the Beit Shemesh home of one of our daughters for a Chanukah party that night and were already on the way when Sara’s phone rang. She answered, and her face froze. There was no question in my mind that she’d just received bad news — the only question was, what kind. When she finally got off the phone, she told us, “Tonight’s plans are changed. The party is not happening at Avigail’s house.”
We asked her what had happened. She explained that our other daughter had called to tell us that Avigail had just been taken to the hospital.
Avigail was expecting a baby at the time, and clearly something had gone wrong. It looked like Avigail was going to lose the baby.
• • • • •
As we drove toward Beit Shemesh, I could see that Sara was lost in thought. Soon she turned to me and said, “I’ve been saving up my money for a while. I’d planned on making a major donation to one of the big tzedakah sites in the merit of finding my zivug soon. But now I think I’m going to change my mind and donate the money as a zechus that Avigail’s baby should be born healthy and complete.”
She then turned to her brother, who was also in the car, and suggested that he do the same.
I was very impressed that Sara would take so much money — money that she had planned to use for herself — and use it for something else. But there was no question in her mind that this was what she wanted to do.
Baruch Hashem, the baby survived. His parents called him Ariel.
Sara was naturally thrilled by the turn of events and went out of her way to develop a relationship with her nephew. • • • • •
About eight months after his birth, Ariel developed an infection and had to be hospitalized. With four other children at home, it was very complicated for Avigail to stay with him at the hospital during the nighttime hours. To ease the load, Sara stayed in the hospital with Ariel during the daytime hours and slept overnight with him as well.
Sara was there for him when he woke up and cried because he was in a strange place, and she was there to hold him and comfort him. Every morning, the doctor would make his rounds and ask the family members what had occurred during the night. Since Sara was the family member who had been with Ariel, it was she who gave the doctor the report. After a week, Ariel recovered from his infection. The doctor gave him a clean bill of health and permission to return home. With her nephew back in his daily routine, Sara returned to her life, too. • • • • •
A few days later, Avigail’s husband Yehuda received a phone call.
“Hello?”
“It’s your baby’s doctor, Itamar.”
Now it just so happened that Yehuda and Itamar had gone to the same yeshiva together and had known each other for years.
“Thank you for taking such good care of my baby,” Yehuda told his old friend.
“So, what can I do for you?”
• • • • •
Yehuda didn’t waste any time. After he got off the phone, he called me up and told me the entire story.
So I called Sara and told her that someone had expressed interest in meeting her.
“Doesn’t matter.”
And it didn’t.
• • • • •
From time to time, I think about my daughter’s shidduch and how it came about. I think about the fact that she’d always insisted that Israelis weren’t for her and how she ended up marrying one. I think about the fact that I told Hashem that I didn’t know what to do and asked Him to take over – and He did. Of course, I also think about the fact that my daughter took all the money she’d intended to give to tzedakah as a merit for herself and gave it instead as a merit for her sister and unborn nephew. And how that baby was the one who actually introduced her to her husband.
I think about all these things from time to time.
Then I smile. Because it is just so obvious that there is Someone up there running the world. - As heard from Sara’s mother
Did you know? The word “date” comes from the Greek word daktylos, meaning finger
Insights on Chumash from the Beloved Mir Rosh Hayeshivah
Published by ArtScroll/Mesorah Publications
All who were privileged to attend the Erev Shabbos shmuessen of Rav Nosson Tzvi Finkel zt”l, rosh yeshiva of Yeshivas Mir Yerushalayim, understands that it was much more than a simple parasha shiur. The experience for every English-speaking bachur was that of the warmth and love of a father sharing his love of Torah. With his trademark smile and delight in Torah, Rav Nosson Tzvi would share thoughts on the parsha and personal insights on life.
Indeed, so many miss Rav Nosson Tzvi. His warmth. His authentic caring for every talmid; indeed, for every Jew. His ahavas haTorah, his vision, his humility, and his extraordinary determination not to let a debilitating illness stop him from teaching – and building – Torah.
Now, we can still be enriched by Rav Nosson Tzvi’s teachings in the new Rav Nosson Tzvi Speaks, published by ArtScroll/Mesorah. This volume contains the aforementioned shmuessen, carefully chosen and adapted for print. As you read these beautifully thoughtout pieces, you will be treated not only to Rav Nosson Tzvi’s chiddushim but also those of his rabbeim, Rav Chaim Shmulevitz and Rav Chaim Kamiel, whose teachings influenced him so greatly.
Few people in our time have had such a profound influence on adults and talmidim as Rav Nosson Tzvi. That an “American boy from Chicago” could not only become the head of a great yeshiva but make it the largest Torah institution in the world would be astounding enough. But that he did so while delivering shiurim and despite a severe physical handicap is what made him one of the most beloved and inspiring Torah leaders in the world.
This collection of his Chumash shmuessen are profound and illuminating. They show us how to achieve major levels of ameilus and hasmadah, and lofty levels of bein adam lachaveiro, urging us to seek and achieve greatness. They will help us feel and, yes, emulate the achrayus, ahavas haTorah and ahavas Yisroel that defined Rav Nosson Tzvi.
The following is an excerpt from the book relevant to this time of year. • • • • •
An Expression of Gratitude
You shall take of the first of every fruit of the ground that you bring in from your Land that Hashem, your G-d, gives you (Devarim 26:2).
The foundation of the mitzvah of bikkurim is expressing gratitude to Hashem. When a person carries that precious first fruit of his crop to the Beis HaMikdash, he recalls that these fruits — along with all other delights of Olam Hazeh — are gifts of his Creator, and this insight fills him with profound sentiments of gratitude to Hashem. The mitzvah of bikkurim thus illustrates the overriding imperative of hakaras hatov to Hakadosh Baruch Hu for the countless miracles and wonders that He performs for us every moment of every day, and conversely, the gravity of spurning His everlasting kindness. Moreover, just as the mitzvah of bikkurim highlights our obligation to feel and express gratitude to Hashem, it likewise points to our moral duty to express appreciation to our fellow man.
Some believe that hakaras hatov means repaying a kindness to another, yet its true definition is actually discerning the kindness that someone did on your behalf, and this recognition is truly the greatest recompense that the giver can receive from the recipient. The same applies to the hakaras hatov that we owe Hakadosh Baruch Hu; the very recognition of the kindness that He performs for us every hour of every day is the ultimate manifestation of hakaras hatov.
We are currently at the height of the days of mercy and atonement, when Hakadosh Baruch Hu showers Klal Yisrael with love and closeness and grants us the process of teshuvah.
Rabbeinu Yonah writes (Shaarei Teshuvah 1:1): “Among the great kindnesses that Hashem bestows upon His creations is preparing for them a path to rise from their lowly actions and flee the abyss of sin… And if they sinned greatly and rebelled against Him, He still does not close the doors of repentance to them.”
Teshuvah is an unparalleled gift from Hakadosh Baruch Hu.
Kovetz He’aros (Yevamos Ch. 21 §24) notes that whereas the repentance of a gentile takes effect at the time that he repents and impacts his future so that he will not be punished in Olam Hazeh, the repentance of a Yid works retroactively as well, erasing his misdeeds as if he never sinned at all.
This is an incredible idea, as logic dictates that a person who sinned and rebelled against Hakadosh Baruch Hu should be undeserving of any clemency. Yet Hakadosh Baruch Hu, Who is a loving and compassionate Father, bequeathed to His children the priceless gift of teshuvah, which uproots sins retroactively at their source, and we must value this deeply.
Let us examine why Hashem saw fit to create the power of teshuvah and what we can learn from His ways.
Man experiences many ups and downs throughout life and can be considered “alive” during his good periods and “dead” during his difficult periods. His temperament and feelings shift constantly, especially since the yeitzer hara baits him day and night. Yet Man’s duty is to choose life — u’vacharta bachayim — and this is a recurring choice that presents itself every day anew. It’s a choice we face every morning as we recite Modeh Ani, and a choice we face before every tefillah, and during every moment of life.
The novelty of teshuvah is not that a sinner can erase his sins, as this is but a consequence of teshuvah. Rather, it is the fact that a person who sinned previously, but now faces new choices at each and every juncture, can still choose the proper path. And it is this choice and yearning for spiritual life that bring about the erasure of his sins.
Had the world been created for life in Olam Hazeh alone, there would have been no purpose in the concept of teshuvah. Yet Man’s purpose in this world is to prepare for Olam Haba, as Chazal teach that this world is compared to a corridor to Olam Haba (Avos 4:16).
Life in this world is about choosing between good and evil: If Man chooses good, then he merits to enter Olam Haba — which is the ultimate objective of teshuvah.
