Community Happenings

The Jewish Home | MARCH 31, 2022 Around the Community

Scenes of the Pre-Purim Men’s Club Tisch at Young Israel of Woodmere held at Traditions

PHOTOS BY IRA THOMAS

Mordechai Eliyahu and Gavi Shore on Purim with Rav Yaakov Bender and Rav Avrohom Bender

Pesach Learning in Full Swing at IVDU LI

The students at IVDU LI have begun learning about Pesach and all the halachos that are pertain to this beautiful holiday. Morah Frumit Fruchtzweig and Mrs. Aliza Goldstein’s classes learned all about what makes something chometz, sorting through their everyday array of food into chometz and not-chometz items. They then completed a hands-on experiment to see the difference between 18-minute matzah versus 20+ minute chometz. The students measured out the flour and water, putting their math skills into practice, and mixing the two mixtures for both a short time and a longer time. They then set the timer, making sure that the 18-minute matzah was mixed very quickly and then rolled thin and placed in the oven. The students watched it bake in the oven and then analyzed the difference between the two products. They then had the opportunity to eat a piece of the two, comparing the taste and voting which one they liked more.

They are excited to continue learning about Pesach and showcasing their knowledge at the Seder table.

CAHAL in BBY Learning Science

Students in Mrs. Rachelli Lonner’s CAHAL 1-2 grade class at Bnos Bais Yaakov learned all about crayfish during their science class with Mrs. Schwartz, the BBY Mainstream teacher. Students had a great time joining with the other BBY first graders and learning how to hold the crayfish carefully and watch out for their pincers.

Mezuzah Learning at Ezra Academy

This past Monday, Ezra Academy held a special Yom Iyun for their students on the mitzvah of mezuzah. Most would think that a Yom Iyun at this time of the year would focus on a Pesach-related idea such as matzah or redemption. However, the idea to focus on the topic of mezuzah came as a unique opportunity. Ezra Academy recently expanded! With the growth of their program and ensuring the class sizes remain small, they began using another floor within their current building. None of the rooms on that floor had mezuzot.

As opposed to simply hanging the required mezuzot, the staff developed an amazing curriculum. Each class was taught about mezuzah, its origin, some of the halachot, and, of course, some inspiring stories. After the learning was completed, each class went to different rooms and had the opportunity to hang the mezuzot.

“A Community of Support” Families Living with Disabilities Connect at Chai Lifeline Retreat

It may not be summer yet, but the Camp Simcha campus was alive with laughter and smiles for Chai Lifeline’s LH Financial Retreat on March 2527. More than two hundred children and families living with disabilities, as well as Chai Lifeline volunteers and staff, convened for an exciting and inspiring weekend getaway at the Stella K. Abraham Family Center in Glen Spey, New York.

“When a family faces illness or crisis, it is vital they have a community of support and understanding. These retreats provide an opportunity for children and families to connect with people navigating similar challenges in a warm, welcoming, and accepting environment,” said Rabbi Simcha Scholar, Chai Lifeline CEO.

From the moment they arrived, participants enjoyed a packed schedule of activities and entertainment. While their children attended day camp programming and thrilling game shows and magic performances, parents were able to bond with one another on a meaningful level through various peer support group sessions.

“We quickly learned how much we had in common with these other families,” said Yitzchak, a Chai Lifeline father from West Palm Beach, Florida. “We shared the same joy, pain, relief, fear, and love. All at once, our differences disappeared, and we were all there together as one family.”

From heartfelt davening and delicious meals to a soulful Oneg and powerful talks, Shabbos provided a spiritually and emotionally uplifting experience for all. Following Shabbos, families took part in an energetic Melava Malka.

Leah, a Chai Lifeline mother from Oak Park, Michigan, said she “had never participated in a support group before and the power of healing is indescribable. This retreat gave us the space to be vulnerable and to hear others’ vulnerabilities took our breath away.”

She added, “The greatest gift we received this weekend was the validation. To have our own feelings verbalized again and again was calming on a very deep level.”

“These retreats allow every member of the family to relax and recharge and to leave with the comfort of knowing they are not alone in their battle against illness,” said Rabbi Mordechai Gobioff, Chai Lifeline National Director of Client Services.

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.

The Jewish Home | MARCH 31, 2022 Community Brings Hundreds of Mishloach Manot to Margaret Tietz

By Shabsie Saphirstein

Hundreds of mishloach manos came pouring into Margaret Tietz Nursing and Rehabilitation from community yeshivas, shuls, and residents in celebration of Purim. Ezra Academy and Shevach High School both organized hundreds of bags, while Israel Root of the Five Towns once again coordinated a special delivery with many more boxes full of holiday gifts for the residents of the center. The Queens community drive was led by Ellona Kravitz who joined with her family for the distribution around the facility.

The Purim spirit was brought into the center with a special Purim party that included staple holiday items and of course live music led by Tzvi Bennett on the keyboard and his friends on the mic. Special mention is due to Dr. Edward (Ellie) Bennett of KGH Doc, Tzvi’s father, who thought of his son as the perfect musician to spread the joy on Purim.

BACH “Adopts” Local Nursing Home

The leaders of the BACH Jewish Center and Grandell Rehabilitation and Nursing Center have created a unique collaboration of Jewish outreach that is enriching the lives of synagogue members and the facility’s residents.

One Thursday morning in March, elderly residents of the Grandell Rehabilitation and Nursing Center returned to their rooms to find traditional holiday care packages had been delivered for the Jewish holiday of Purim. Each one contained edible treats and a note written by a child from the nearby BACH Jewish Center, the gesture represented the ongoing religious support that has been initiated by the synagogue’s leader, Rabbi Benny Berlin.

Rabbi Berlin has characterized his burgeoning community’s relationship with the nursing facility as an “adoption of sorts,” as members of all ages have been organizing numerous events to engage the facility’s Jewish residents.

“We are just a few blocks away from the Grandell, making residents who want some Judaism in their life an extension of our community,” said Rabbi Berlin. “Members of this synagogue have graciously taken it upon themselves to include and engage them, whenever an opportunity presents itself. This means visiting with them, writing letters, touching base with them before holidays and more broadly treating them as our community’s grandparents.”

While the partnership with the facility materialized during the height of COVID-19 for last year’s first Purim basket preparation event, the recent loosening of the pandemic’s restrictions has inspired congregants to plan more inclusive and in-person activities. Some events planned include monthly Sabbath get-togethers, where the synagogue community will join Grandell residents in singing traditional songs, listening to Jewish-inspired sermons on the weekly Torah portion, and creating an atmosphere of spirituality and happiness that is befitting of the day. Other aspects of this collaboration will further enable Grandell residents to participate in Jewish ritual activities whenever possible, including a program providing assistance to wheelchair-bound residents who wish to attend Sabbath morning services at the synagogue.

Next month, with Passover approaching, the BACH’s youngest members are gearing up to put on a holiday-inspired show for the residents and have already started rehearsing jokes and other tidbits the residents will find amusing.

“What cheese is served at the Passover seder,” one 10-year-old plans to open with. “Matzah-rella,” she finishes.

“We wouldn’t pass over seeing you this Passover,” quips another 11-year-old.

“BACH members of all ages feel a responsibility to ensure that we facilitate religious opportunities for the center’s residents, especially considering the tremendous isolation the COVID-19 pandemic brought on for these last two years. What makes the BACH community so special is their willingness to actively participate in programs like this,” added Rabbi Berlin. “Fostering these intergenerational relationships will not only have a transformative impact on the facility’s residents, but on our community members as well, and we are grateful to the Grandell’s leadership for welcoming this partnership.”

The Jewish Home | MARCH 31, 2022 1,000 Student Activists Virtually Lobby NY Legislators in Largest Teach NYS Mission to Albany

The voices of 1,000 Jewish yeshiva and day school students advocating for their education and schools strongly impressed NY state legislators on Tuesday, March 22. As part of the Teach NYS Virtual Mission to Albany, students from around the state spoke up for increases in the state’s investment in STEM and school security programs, just two weeks before the state budget process for the next year wraps up.

“State funding for STEM and security is essential to our children’s ability to succeed in our technology-based economy and for their everyday safety,” said Sydney Altfield. Teach NYS Grassroots Director. “Who can tell legislators that story better than the students themselves, joined by parents, teachers, and school administrators? Whether its virtual or in person, this mission, our largest ever, is critical to our advocacy work.” The request for an increase in funding was met with strong support by Governor Kathy Hochul in her address to the students when she said, “That’s why in the executive budget, we proposed the highest level of state aid for education ever at $31 billion. It includes an 18% increase in funding for non-public schools as well as a $15 million increase in the stem reimbursement program and tripling funding for health, safety, and security projects through the Nonpublic School Safety Equipment Grant Program.”

Teach NYS advocates for quality, safe and affordable nonpublic schools. As a champion of state funding for STEM teachers, school security and other programs, it has helped deliver more than $276 million to the state’s nonpublic schools this year alone. Teach NYS is a member of the Orthodox Union’s Teach Coalition that represents 90% of Jewish day school and yeshiva students nationwide.

SKA students on the virtual mission

How I Got My Tefillin Back

By Ephraim Becker

Iwent on the 7:58AM Long Island Railroad train from Cedarhurst to Penn Station this week with my tefillin, but when I got off, I completely forgot my tefillin and got the AirTag notification too late. I went to customer service and Lost & Found, but both couldn’t help me. I couldn’t remember what track the train was on. I looked at the Find My app on my iPhone, and it said that my tefillin was heading towards Jamaica. I went back to Lost & Found and customer service, and they said to me that they couldn’t help me.

I took the subway back to work and checked the Find My app, and it said that my tefillin was leaving Jamaica. I had no idea where it was heading to. Five minutes later, I checked the Find My app, and it said that it was leaving Queens Village. I checked again ten minutes later, and it said that it was at Floral Park station. Then fifteen minutes later, the app said that my tefillin was at Hempstead Station. There’s only one way the train goes off-peak when it’s at Hempstead and that is at Atlantic Terminal in Brooklyn.

My boss let me take the subway to Atlantic Terminal, and I waited until 11AM and got on the train and, with the help of a LIRR worker, got my tefillin back. It was in the conductor’s cab the whole time.

I took the subway back to work and now have my tefillin with me.

You should definitely get an AirTag and put it in your tefillin.

Margaret Tietz Distributes 450 Mishloach Manos To Local Seniors

By Shabsie Saphirstein

Margaret Tietz Nursing and Rehabilitation takes pride in the Jewish senior community of Queens. To celebrate the holiday of Purim, the administration of the facility coordinated the distribution of 450 mishloach manos to local seniors. Led by on-site rabbi Rabbi Zavel Pearlman, the staff bagged gifts for the residents of Boulevard ALP Assisted Living, Commonpoint Queens Central Queens (Formerly known as Central Queens Y), Young Israel of Forest Hills Senior Center, and Young Israel of Queens Valley Senior Center.

Paul Kershon and his wife are residents of Forest Hills. Paul has a propensity to give back to his community and chose to spend his day assisting in the packaging effort as the best way to share the smiles and joys of celebration.

The Jewish Home | MARCH 31, 2022 YOSS Megillas Esther Kriah Initiative

Over 50 YOSS Mechina students completed this year’s Megillas Esther Kriah Initiative. The initiative focused on reading Rashi script, reinforcing the skills taught in Yeshiva. Each student who completed the program received his own Megillas Esther and was entered into a special raffle.

Congratulations to the raffle winners, Benjy Twersky, Nison Hirsch, and Chaim Krauss!

Purple Day at HAFTR

By Andrew Berger

Purple Day at HAFTR High School was a huge success!

Purple Day is dedicated to bringing awareness to the issue of domestic violence in our community. The day comprised two goals: to educate the student body about these significant issues and to fundraise for a lifesaving organization dedicated to this cause. Both of these objectives went extremely well. To help with this task, HAFTR teamed with Shalom Task Force, an organization whose purpose is to promote healthy relationships and combat domestic violence.

On Wednesday, March 9, students were encouraged to wear purple to help them get into the mindset of the day. During first period, students were shown a video prepared by Shalom Task Force. The video was created to help spread awareness about domestic abuse, as well as the work that Shalom Task Force does. Following the video, students engaged in meaningful discussions pertaining to the message of the film. Throughout the day, students were able to purchase doughnuts, as well as raffle tickets for great prizes as a way to raise money for this organization. By the end of the day, students and faculty raised over $900 for Shalom Task Force and had a better understanding of healthy dynamics and relationships.

It was great to see so many students supporting this cause, both through their donations and their purple apparel!

Congratulations to HALB eighth grade social studies teacher Ms. Kristen Waterman, on being awarded the Long Island History Day Teacher of the Year! This is in recognition of the incredible work she has done with her HALB students over the years with the History Day program.

The children at Gan Chamesh enjoyed a hands-on, interactive matzah bakery that made the process of baking matzah feel very real

Digital Dissection or Hands-On Experience?

By Mrs. Gittel Tova Grant

Is real-life science dissection still relevant in our increasingly digital society? This science educator votes yes. Although a virtual dissection was available for students with more delicate senses, the HAFTR Middle School students and some intrepid parents joined together to perform dissections on frogs, rats, and even delivered over 20 newborn rats from a pregnant specimen. The experience was very real and drew students beyond the 3D renderings of internal organs and body systems available online and in their books. Despite the exactness of replication available digitally, the hands-on experience required to make the correct cut, choose the correct tool, and navigate the differences in specimens that exist in real life is unreplicatable. Students gained so much by experiencing the sights, feels, and, yes, smells of the dissections – as well as gained the skills to navigate the safety and proper treatment of the specimen.

We look forward to more opportunities to join together and engage in real-life learning.

The Jewish Home | MARCH 31, 2022 MTA Learns About Operation Benjamin with Rabbi JJ Schacter

MTA seniors were privileged to meet with Rabbi JJ Schacter, widely respected and beloved scholar at YU, grandfather of Senior Eli Knapp, and son of Rabbi Herschel Schacter, the chaplain who accompanied the U.S. Army in liberating Buchenwald in 1945.

Seniors recently completed an American History unit on World War II, and were eager to learn about Operation Benjamin, an effort led by Rabbi Schacter in memory of his father, and his friend Shalom Lamm, to correct the gravestones of Jewish American soldiers who were killed in World War II. Many of them were mistakenly identified as Christians when they were buried, and as a result, they were buried under Latin crosses. Operation Benjamin’s goal is to replace those crosses with Jewish Stars.

So far, the organization has been able to correct approximately 20 of these errors, and as Rabbi Schacter explained, statistically there should be many more. During World War II, more than half a million Jews served in the U.S. Armed Services, both an incredible number and an outsized amount considering the small percentage of Americans who are Jews. Through Rabbi Schacter’s efforts, proper honor is paid to those brave Jewish Americans who made the ultimate sacrifice fighting for their country and a greater appreciation of the many Jewish Americans who served is cultivated.

Talmidim were fascinated by the story of these brave Jews and enjoyed learning about this initiative to properly honor their sacrifice. They found the story to be truly empowering, as Operation Benjamin exists only because of Rabbi Schacter’s determination. He was bothered by the relatively small number of Jewish stars he found in a military cemetery in Normandy and conducted exhaustive searches to find Jewish soldiers who were improperly buried and then located their families so they could request a correction. This demonstrated the power that each person has to really make an impact on the world.

MTA is grateful to Rabbi Schacter for sharing his inspiring story, which was an especially meaningful experience for his grandson, Eli. To learn more about Operation Benjamin and its incredible work, please visit www.operationbenjamin.org.

Mazal tov to SKA seniors who received acceptances to Macaulay Honors College – Leora Ellenberg – and to Stern College Honors – Adina Adelman, Gabriella Herman, Abby Katz, Tamar Axelrod, and Ariella

Traube

A Sweet Celebration

This week, Bruce Becker of Max & Mina’s ice cream shop in Queens celebrated a special young man on his 42nd birthday. Tuvia Gubin had become friends with Beckers when he was a young teenager, coming into the shop on Main Street with his mom and dad. The Beckers would throw parties for Tuvia in the scoop shop, in Flushing Meadows Park, and at Knicks games, and they became close. When Tuvia’s mother fell ill, he went to live in a group home in Ohel Bais Ezra in Brooklyn. For two years, due to the pandemic, Tuvia was not able to visit his favorite store. But this week, Tuvia came to Queens again! On Monday, he spent time with his friends in Max & Mina’s and enjoyed a sweet birthday.

Happy birthday, Tuvia!

Bruce Becker, Rabbi Dovid Goldwasser, and Tuvia Gubin

Bruce Becker, Tuvia Gubin, and Jay Kestenbaum, co-president of Ohel

This Passover Let’s Declare Dayenu enough

In Israel, 2.5 million people are living in poverty, including over 1.8 million children, 50% are worried they can’t pay rent, and 1 in 5 experience food insecurity you can be their salvation

THE NEED FOR DAILY MEALS TRIPLED 3x

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To make a donation visit our website at www.mpdonate.org

The talmidos of the Ganger Early Childhood Division of TAG are so excited to be joining the elementary school talmidos to play their new Emotion Commotion game, as part of the school-wide Bilvavi theme. The talmidos are quickly earning so many colorful cards, as they internalize and apply the lessons they are learning – to use all of their emotions in the right way to serve Hashem!

Nachum Segal Network Studios in Manhattan Destroyed in Electrical Fire

The studios of Jewish New York’s voice and top Jewish radio personality Nachum Segal burned tragically in an electrical fire Sunday afternoon. The Nachum Segal Network, based on the Lower East Side, had used the office, studio and headquarters space since 2002. An emergency crowdfunding campaign has been launched to rebuild and keep the network broadcasting.

The network is continuing its programming remotely.

Segal has hosted his Jewish Moments in the Morning – JM in the AM – program since September 1983 every weekday and non-holiday morning from 6 to 9 a.m. The show first aired on FM radio and has since transitioned onto an app and online stream which includes a variety of different talk show programs throughout the day.

The walls of the studio were adorned with pictures illustrating the network’s – and Jewish New York’s – history through photos of notable interviewees over the last few decades. From leading rabbis, Jewish politicians at the forefront of New York and national politics, major league sports stars, a handful of Israeli cabinet ministers and leaders of countless Jewish world nonprofits. Unfortunately, all were destroyed.

It was in the very headquarters where Segal and his team founded the Jewish Unity Initiative, a nonprofit which seeks to amplify Jewish voices and promote religious identity and unity in areas that have experienced disasters.

“Our studio served as a home for the Jewish community to come and share with our listeners about their organizations and the top news impacting the American Jewish community,” said Segal. “It is where we planned several missions to Jewish communities impacted by disasters such as hurricanes.”

“We have an important mission in providing information and entertainment to the Jewish community and we are hoping to build quickly. With the help of our listeners here and across the globe, we hope to build a stronger NSN than ever before,” he said.

The Jewish Home | MARCH 31, 2022 SKA Reunion in Israel

By: Arielle Rosman and Rosie Ash

The annual Stella K. Abraham High School for Girls alumnae reunion is one of the most highly anticipated events of the year.

SKA alumnae studying in Israel for the year were so fortunate to reunite with Mrs. Elisheva Kaminetsky, Principal, Judaic Studies, and Mrs. Paghit Ralbag, 12th Grade Level Advisor, on Monday evening, March 7. The annual reunion, which took place in the Old City, was an opportunity for the class of ‘21 to catch up with each other and with their teachers. There was happy mingling, spirited schmoozing, and much reminiscing.

Another highlight of the evening was hearing first-hand from SKA alumnae who made aliyah some time before. These alumnae spoke about their lives in Israel and about the challenges that they faced when making aliyah. Everyone was inspired and left with new perspectives and memories to come.

The following evening, Mrs. Kaminetsky and Mrs. Ralbag invited SKA graduates who had made the decision to make aliyah after seminary, participating in Sherut L’ami or studying at university, to join for dessert. Everyone enjoyed hearing how these life-altering decisions to choose to move to Israel were made. They discussed the joys and challenges of living in Israel and gave the recent graduates advice about their seminary year. It was truly a great night for all!

Birthright Israel Excel Summit in New York

Over 300 Birthright Israel Excel Fellows from North America and around the world will gather in New York City this weekend, April 1-3, for the Excelerate22 Summit. This will be the first time the annual Birthright Israel Excel Summit has been held in person since 2019, a welcome change from the virtual Summits of the last two years.

Birthright Israel Excel is a prestigious business fellowship that offers a summer internship in Israel, followed by membership in an exclusive community of peers focused on professional development, personal growth, Israel engagement, and philanthropy. After their internships, Excel Fellows have maximized their experiences by taking on positions at top-tier companies such as J.P. Morgan Chase, Bain & Company and Google, developing strategic partnerships with Israeli companies, and starting their own companies, often hiring other Fellows.

According to Birthright Israel Excel’s Executive Director Idit Rubin, the pandemic has meant less live networking events but has also resulted in the growth and strengthening of global connections within the Excel community, a trend that the organization wants to continue to develop in upcoming years. Some 30 Fellows from Israel and several others from the UK, South Africa, Argentina and Mexico will join their North American peers for Excelerate22, cementing those bonds.

“Birthright Excel Fellows are active every day as recognized leaders in their professional arenas and within the broad Jewish community. As they gather this year for the first in-person Summit in two years, we are experiencing a sense of renewal and opening a new chapter in the history of what is considered the most prestigious program in the Jewish world today,” said Gidi Mark, CEO of Birthright Israel.

“There is a sense of celebration around this year’s Summit. It’s the first time many of our Excel Fellows have a chance to be together in the same location. As they brainstorm and share ideas in an atmosphere rich with creativity and comradery, they will be forging a deeper sense of community,” said Rubin.

Throughout the weekend, participants can look forward to plentiful networking opportunities, industry-specific panels and discussions about topics such as business development, Jewish identity and Israel engagement.

Sunday will feature presentations by two recognized leaders in the world of business and entrepreneurship. Erin Schrode, activist, social entrepreneur and Congressional candidate, has developed eco-education for millions through her organization Turning Green and now drives her nonprofit Conscious Kitchen to serve over 19 million organic nutritious meals to students and vulnerable populations in California. Schrode will offer her expertise on social impact, pro-Israel activism and the role of millennials in igniting change.

The final keynote presentation will be given by David Blitzer, Global Head of Blackstone’s Tactical Opportunities Group, the company’s opportunistic investment business which invests globally across asset classes and industries to generate risk-adjusted returns in any market environment. Blitzer is also the Founder and Managing General Partner of Harris Blitzer Sports & Entertainment (HBSE) and managing partner of the Philadelphia 76ers and the New Jersey Devils. An expert on business and sports ownership, he will offer insights and inspiration to emerging professionals in all areas.

Since 2011, Birthright Israel Excel has been engaged in developing the next generation of Jewish business leaders. The Excel Fellowship selects extraordinary college students around the world for a summer business or tech internship in Tel Aviv at leading companies. After their return, Excel Fellows become part of a global community that provides resources for professional and personal development and Israel engagement, while also being dedicated to philanthropy.

The Jewish Home | MARCH 31, 2022 Signs of Kashrus at Darchei

In honor of Parashas Shemini, Rav Ami Cohen – a noted talmid chacham and expert in the field of kashrus – made a fascinating presentation to the fourth and fifth grade talmidim of Yeshiva Darchei Torah about the signs of kosher animals

The Haggadah of the Gerrer Dynasty ArtScroll/Mesorah Publications

By Yisroel Besser

We are a nation of beginners, reaching for new beginnings. On the Yom Tov of Pesach, the exalted Seder speaks of that perpetual drive for his’chadshus, rejuvenation, the aspiration to start again.

The Chiddushei HaRim once turned to a respected chassid, Reb Baruch Stutchiner, and asked a question. “Do you remember how, when we were in Kotzk, they taught us to immerse ourselves in the parshiyos of Yetzias Mitzrayim, to analyze them like a Tosafos?”

This story, our story, for the geulah endures, every individual in every generation experiencing it on his own, giving us the tools to rise higher, to find redemption.

Yetzias Mitzrayim taught us that we were worthy of being Hashem’s, and Matan Torah provided us with the means to serve Him.

In Peshis’cha, the two experiences came together — Torah itself the means of attaining the clarity and faith we had tasted on that glorious night, transmitted from there to Kotzk, where it took root and spawned the glorious Gerrer dynasty. It is an ancient path, but under each stone there is a spark of his’chadshus, of Yidden finding the strength to start anew, to reach both higher and deeper.

The Haggadah of the Gerrer Dy-

nasty looks at the story of the creation of our nation through the wise and humble eyes of the tzaddikim of the Gerrer dynasty, starting from Peshis’cha and Kotzk.

Most of the Torah thoughts in this unique commentary are brief, designed to be shared with everyone at the Seder. Many are not wellknown, and all of them have the stamp of emes, of truth and authenticity. And, of course, there are stories! Stories of rebbes and simple Jews. Stories from Egypt and from our modern world. Stories that strengthen our faith and renew our hopes for the future. Stories we can tell at the Seder, or tell and retell ourselves, when we need to give ourselves a powerful boost of emunah. The author, Yisroel Besser, has written many bestselling biographies and Torah works, including Nishmas: Song of the Soul and Just Love Them: The Life and Legacy of Rabbi Dovid Trenk. In

The Haggadah of the

Gerrer Dynasty, he has given us a wonderful gift for Pesach — a commentary that will enliven our Seder, as it enriches our lives.

This Haggadah speaks directly to our neshamos, our souls. Read, enjoy, and be uplifted!

Shevach Students and Alumna Help Spread the Spirit of Purim

On Taanis Esther, Shevach students went to visit local nursing homes to deliver mishloach manos provided by Agudas Yisrael of America and to bring the spirit of Purim to the residents. Dressed up in fun costumes, the Shevach students, along with the elderly residents, had a memorable and uplifting experience.

Tanya Saiedian, one of the students who participated in this venture at The Boulevard Alp, shared a glimpse of the rewarding time spent there. “It was such an amazing experience going to Boulevard Alp. I truly witnessed sparks of joy shining on the residents’ faces when we greeted them with a smile, gave them mishloach manos, and had conversations with them. It was energizing to see that we were, baruch Hashem, able to give them so much simcha. Full heartedly, I can say that I gained even more than the residents did, from this special event.” This was just one girl’s experience, yet it was clear that all the girls felt the same way.

Kudos to the following Shevach students who participated in this wonderful chessed: Shevach Chessed Heads Henna Bayla Goldish and Tova Ribowsky, accompanied by Shevach students Sophia Ben-Baruch, Shira Goldish, Nomi Gray, Devorah Lind, and Batya Orbach.

In Kew Gardens, The Atria and The Homestead were both treated to a memorable visit by Shevach alumna Mrs. Batzion (Massis) Brody, her husband, and her three children, who in their delightful costumes, brought Purim joy to all the residents. The seniors loved being visited by the charming children, some even remembering them from their previous Purim visits. As Mrs. Brody stated, “I started coming here on Purim when I was a Shevach student, and I will not give it up! This is the true spirit of Purim that I hope to impart to my children.”

The Queens community can be very proud of the Shevach students as they continue to do their wonderful acts of chessed and amaze all with their willingness to give.

The Jewish Home | MARCH 31, 2022 At the Young Israel of Woodmere Purim Party

PHOTOS BY IRA THOMAS

The Jewish Home | MARCH 31, 2022 The children at HANC ECC are working hard preparing for Pesach

The Last Boy

The journey of The Last Boy…a new play with music reaching Broadway began in 2015 when choral conductor Steve Fisher overheard an 8-year-old boy say to another chorister, “You know, the Holocaust didn’t really happen.” Fisher thought to himself, “That’s it. Our next concert tour will include a visit to a concentration camp.” Fisher knew Holocaust denying was a reality, but he had never witnessed it nor did he ever expect it to come from a child who was part of a diverse organization in a progressive city. “Eight years old! I’m not even sure this kid knew what he was saying,” speculates Fisher. “But he certainly heard the statement from an adult who did.”

Fisher then discovered the extraordinary story of the boys in Terezin Concentration Camp’s Dorm Number 1, who created the longest-running underground publication of the Holocaust. Every Friday night, the boys in the room would gather in secret to read aloud poems and prose they had written that week. If their literary magazine had been discovered, the entire room surely would have been immediately transported to Auschwitz. Sadly, eventually, that was exactly their fate. By 1945, every one of the young poets had been transported East, except 15-year-old Sidney Taussig. He had the foresight to bury the magazine so that the Nazis couldn’t burn it before fleeing the Russians. Today, Taussig is 92 years old living in West Palm Beach, Florida.

Fisher’s boy choir concert tour to Terezin took place in 2016. The boys learned about the Holocaust and even read some of the poems Sidney Taussig saved in the very room where they were written. Fisher was so inspired that when he returned he got in touch with Taussig and asked him for his blessing to write a play inspired by him.

Taussig said, “On two conditions! One, include a lot of laughter – we were just ordinary boys in extraordinary circumstances. And two, write your play quickly so I can see it before time achieves what Hitler could not.”

The Last Boy…a new play with music had its world premiere Off Broadway this summer, winning four Broadway World Awards: Best New Play, Best Production, Best Direction, and Best Performance. On April 27, there will be a one-night only benefit performance at The Town Hall, serving as a fundraiser for several non-profit organizations. Our 6 Million, an Israel-based non-profit, is sending over 1500 candles with the names of Terezin young people who perished. Audience members will walk one block to Times Square and light those candles, to mark the start of Yom HaShoah, as a way to honor all those who perished in the Shoah.

Tickets for the benefit performance at The Town Hall (123 W. 43rd Street between Broadway and 6th Ave) can be purchased here. Fisher, along with some young cast members, will be presenting at Young Israel of Woodmere’s monthly Nefsharim on Wednesday, April 6 at 12noon.

Pesach math at Shulamith ECC

YCQ Celebrates Epic Purim 5782

An Interview with Mrs. Shirly Pourad-Kaikov, YCQ Purim Carnival Planner

What were your original goals for the YCQ Purim Carnival?

My goal was to create a “Wow” carnival. Each student, ages 3 to 14, had a great time. Watching the children walk in one by one, and seeing their shock and surprise, gave me so much joy! The one thing I wanted to accomplish was to make it the best carnival YCQ ever had. I’m proud to say we did accomplish just that! Our Purim Carnival Committee worked with Great Neck Games to create a creative and state of the art experience.

What did you have in mind when planning the layout?

I wanted the students to be able to see everything clearly and to have easy and safe access and regress to and from each attraction.

How was this Purim carnival different than previous carnivals?

We added more games and attractions this year. In addition, we were able to get Virtual Reality games and a selection of different type of Arcade games.

What was the feedback from the students?

Our younger students raved about the cotton candy machine and popcorn machine. They were counting day the days until the Purim Carnival. Grade 8 students enjoyed running the booths and watching the younger students have a great time. They especially enjoyed the end of the carnival when they were allowed to use all the attractions and games.

What was your favorite part of the day?

I especially enjoyed the parade of students dressed in their costumes, as well as their first look at the entire set! The raffles at the end of each grade time were incredible prizes: Foosball Tables, Air-Hockey Tables, Class Pizza Parties, Class Trip to 7/11, $20.00 Amazon gift cards, and much more.

Who would you like to thank for their help and support?

I would like to thank Mr. Aaron Kessler, Facilities Manager, and his department, for making sure everything was working properly and that the carnival ran smoothly. I wouldn’t have been able to put any of this together without the support of Rabbi Mark Landsman, YCQ principal. His constant support inspires me to work diligently and creatively in planning YCQ student activities.

Councilmember Linda Lee recently visited Central. Councilmember Linda Lee represents the 23rd Council District in Eastern Queens. She was elected to the Council in November 2021, becoming the first Korean-American ever elected to the City Council and the first woman to hold the seat.

Linda also spearheaded the creation of the only State-licensed Article 31 Mental Health Clinic serving the Korean-American community operating in New York. She chairs the Committee on Mental Health, Disabilities, and Addictions. Lee was previously President and CEO of Korean Community Services of Metropolitan New York, which, in 2015, became the “first and only state-licensed mental health clinic operated by a nonprofit serving the Korean American community,” according to her Council campaign website.

She is particularly interested in the impact of Covid-19, school closures and learning disruptions on the mental health of students. During her visit, Lee and Ms. Bracha Rutner, Head of School, spent time talking about our educational philosophy of Torah Umaddah and our goal of keeping our school open during the pandemic to enable students to have as “normal” an experience as possible. They toured the building together, and Councilmember Lee was fascinated by the many opportunities our students have from art, to science, to humanities, to the multitude of co-curricular and after-school activities.

This is the beginning of building a relationship with the local community to enable Central to build strong relationships with their neighbors.

Camp Shira – Breaking News!

Camp Shira has a new swim program for this summer!

Camp Shira has secured exclusive swim slots at the North Woodmere Park pool. This is an exciting new feature for Shira campers. It was a much-needed program to enable more girls in the community to have access to a professional summer swim program through their day camp.

Camp Shira is a popular girls camp in the Five Towns that serves girls from entering Nursery through 8th grade as well as boys entering Nursery through Pre1A. The camp offers trips, specialties, shows, a huge water park on campus and now swimming!

The ability to offer this swim program is the result of assistance from County Executive Bruce Blakeman’s office, the Nassau County Parks Department, Sheya Landa, Special Assistant of Constituent Affairs, and Pesach Osina, community activist. All of them helped arrange this access to the pools for the sake of the local community.

HAFTR HS Participates in Model UN Conference

By Michal Mari

HAFTR High School’s Model United Nations team recently participated in YUNMUN, the Yeshiva University National Model United Nations, in Stamford, Connecticut. The convention, which was held Sunday, March 13-Tuesday, March 15, hosted students from dozens of high schools from all across the country.

YUNMUN is described as “a student-run simulation of the workings of the real United Nations,” and it provides students with the opportunity to learn and understand the inner workings of international relations. Students play the role of delegates from countries that are actually members of the United Nations, and the participants represent a range of different viewpoints on current global issues, often representing those viewpoints with which they don’t agree. When preparing for the convention and advocating for their country, students must conduct thorough research about their country’s interests and policies across an enormous range of issues, developing their knowledge of global affairs and improving critical thinking and problem-solving skills, as well as communication and public speaking skills. HAFTR students were assigned the difficult task of representing either Iran or Madagascar.

HAFTR High School had an extremely successful conference, with three delegates receiving honorable mentions in their respective committees. Junior Andrew Berger received an award in the SPECPOL committee, having to come up with solutions about the issues of peace in both the Middle East and in space. Sophomore Kaitlin Pollack received an award in the UNICEF committee, the committee designated for dealing with global issues relating to children, and sophomore Maya Karasanti also received an award in the African Summit committee, the committee that discusses issues concerning Africa and its citizens. These students received recognition for their outstanding work coming up with solutions to the issues they were presented with.

YUNMUN was an extreme success this year, and we are looking forward to many more successes for years to come.

VERONIKA ADLERSTEIN, LCSW

Psychotherapist

Treating symptoms of depression, anxiety, life-transitions, decisionmaking, family and social relationships, loss and chronic pain.

Fluent in English, Swedish and Polish. Shomer Shabbat.

1234 W. Broadway, suite 1 Hewlett, NY 11557 (516) 209-7977 Veronika.lcsw@aol.com https://www.veronikaadlersteinlcsw.com

The Jewish Home | MARCH 31, 2022 Rabbi Paysach Krohn Inspires HANC HS

By Adina Lippman

On Friday, March 25, HANC High School was honored to host Rabbi Paysach Krohn, who shared penetrating messages from the life of the gadol hador, Rav Chaim Kanievsky, zt”l, whose shiva concluded that day. Rabbi Krohn began by thanking Rabbi Slomnicki and to the rabbeim and Morot for their endless efforts and contributions to our Yeshiva. He then dove into the astonishing life of Rabbi Chaim Kanievsky and the incredible legacy he has left with all of us.

Rabbi Krohn explained Rabbi Chaim Kanievsky’s legacy by introducing his childhood. He shared, with astonishment, how The Steipler (Rav Chaim Kanievsky’s father) sang songs of Gemara and Shas every night to his son before he went to sleep. By the age of a young boy, Rabbi Chaim Kanievsky already knew all of the names of Gemara and Shas and began on a path of incredible Torah learning. What is even more astonishing is that Rav Chaim Kanievsky would relearn the entire Tanach, Gemara and Shas every single year. He never missed a single day of Torah learning. We cannot fathom the sheer greatness of his Torah learning and connection with both the Torah and Hashem.

Rav Krohn then highlighted one of the many perfected mitzvot of Rabbi Chaim Kanievsky: kibbud av v’eim and mitzvos bein adam l’chaveiro. Regardless of his deep desire to learn all day, he would always take time out of his day to receive hundreds of Jewish visitors in his home in Bnei Brak, answer their questions, and daven for them. He was our connection with Hakadosh Baruch Hu in this world.

Rabbi Krohn took these fascinating anecdotes of Rav Chaim Kanievsky’s life and connected it with the idea of the keruvim that remained in the Kodesh Ha’kedoshim in the Beis Hamikdash.

Rabbi Krohn emotionally explained his intense grief and concern for our generation. “Who will protect us? What will we do now?” The answer, Rabbi Krohn said, is for us to learn constantly about Rabbi Chaim Kanievsky and try our very best to adopt any mitzvah in honor of Rabbi Chaim Kanievsky every chance that we get. This is how to continue his legacy and elevate his neshama in Shamayim.

We would like to thank Rabbi Krohn for sharing such a meaningful and beautiful talk about the gadol ha’dor, Rabbi Chaim Kanievsky, zt”l, and we will keep his powerful words in mind as we try, in every way possible, to continue his legacy.

We thank the Ahdout Family for sponsoring the inspirational program in commemoration of the upcoming yartzeit of Ben Chur Ben Farajolla, z”l, beloved father of Mr. William Ahdout and grandfather of Shayah Ahdout ‘22.

Rav Shimon Galai gave a hesped on Rav Chaim Kanievsky, zt”l, at Yeshiva Darchei Torah this week

The Jewish Home | MARCH 31, 2022 Feeling the Freedom This Passover

By Hadassah Bay

The past two years have taught us a lesson or two regarding advance planning (futile) and flexibility (crucial). And so, we at Meir Panim are continuing full steam ahead with operations to provide necessities for Passover, and where needed, a place at the Seder table – albeit with the knowledge that we must always be equipped with a “Plan B.”

Meir Panim’s patrons come from across the spectrum of Israel society, including the elderly as well as single-parent families, people on disability allowances and the working poor, whose numbers have skyrocketed since the onset of the pandemic. This year, Meir Panim has been welcoming an unexpected, completely new demographic: refugees from Ukraine. They started to trickle in around Purim and have been arriving in Israel in steadily increasing numbers.

While the various government agencies are scrambling to help them, they clearly are unable to do it all alone and have been turning to organizations like Meir Panim.

“We’ve seen a lot of refugees in Tiberias and in Or Akiva and have been endeavoring to fill in the gaps,” says Mimi Rozmaryn, Director of Global Development at Meir Panim. “We have the infrastructure, and we’re ready and happy to do whatever is needed.”

As soon as the refugees started arriving, Meir Panim’s branch managers took the initiative to print up signs in Hebrew and Russian, welcoming the newcomers and informing them that they can seek assistance from Russian-speaking volunteers.

“They’ve been through so much trauma just getting here,” Mimi observes. “We’re trying to help them feel more settled in any way we can.”

As many refugees arrived with not much more than the clothes on their backs, Meir Panim has been collecting and distributing clothing as well as toys, coloring books, crayons, etc. for the many children.

“We were delighted to provide baby clothing for a woman who’d been in her ninth month, and who recently gave birth to the first Israeli baby of refugees,” Mimi relates.

Dimona, one of the cities where Meir Panim is active, has been identified as one of the locations where the Israeli government plans to settle the masses of refugees. Meir Panim works in partnership with the municipality and will be taking an involved role in helping them further.

As Passover approaches, Meir Panim is going into high gear. Last year, a communal Seder was organized in Tzefat and Dimona; this year, due to increased demand and need, Meir Panim is planning Seders in other cities as well. Additionally, Meir Panim volunteers and staff have been preparing and packaging all the Seder needs, from A to Z, for those who will be making their own Seder at home. There is a pantry basket, with staples for the week of the holiday, available for pickup or delivered to homes. Prepaid grocery vouchers are another way to provide food security for those who need it most.

Against the background of those preparations, people still need to eat now. Accordingly, all five branches are working around the clock to cook and package the huge amounts of food distributed daily. “While it feels like the pandemic is over health-wise, the financial crisis continues,” Mimi observes. “We’re still preparing double the pre-2020 amount in all our branches.” In fulfillment of its mission to break the cycle of poverty in Israel, Meir Panim operates youth centers for at-risk youth in Sderot. At the height of Covid, kids and counselors at the three centers couldn’t meet due to health regulations; however, they were allowed to do so for volunteering. Consequently, the centers have integrated a strong volunteering component into their regular activities, with very positive results.

Sderot teens are now in charge of packaging and distributing care packages for the isolated and elderly, as well as for soldiers at the local military outpost. Before Purim, they distributed Mishloach Manot packages, and currently they’re busy with the Passover food baskets that will be distributed all over town.

“The teens are delighted to see the seniors so overjoyed to receive the parcels, knowing that their volunteering really makes a difference,” says Mimi.

“We can only hope that the situation continues to remain stable,” Mimi says. “We want the people, especially those who live alone, and who suffered for two long years in isolation, to finally feel safe and secure enough to once again come to our centers and gain from the social interaction — food for both the body and soul,” Mimi reflects.

Donations can be made online at www. mpdonate.org, through our toll-free number at (1877) 736-6283, or by mail to American Friends of Meir Panim at 88 Walton Street, Suite B1 Brooklyn, NY 11206-4479. All donations made in the U.S. are tax-deductible under EIN# 201582478.

The Jewish Home | MARCH 31, 2022 Mini Matzahs

At Gesher, we are very busy preparing for Pesach! The children had a wonderful time making their very own matzahs from start to finish with the Model Matzah Bakery.

Each child had the opportunity to do all the tasks necessary to create flour including threshing, winnowing, selecting, and grinding the wheat. Once the flour was prepared, they sifted it, added water, and kneaded the dough. The children then baked their matzos in special matzah ovens. They can’t wait to bring them home and enjoy them!

Harmony Embraces the Community Again!

By Jen Reiz

For two weeks, Lawrence High School was packed with hundreds of excited girls participating in the huge performance of Harmony Jr. 2022. Fifth graders through eighth graders from the local yeshivos came together in colorful costume to perform over fifteen choreographed dances and songs. Schools represented include Bais Yaakov Ateres Miriam, Bais Yaakov Drav Meir, Bais Yaakov Queens, Bnos Bais Yaakov, Bnos Malka Academy, HALB, HANC, IVDU, Shefa, Shulamis, SKA and TAG.

Attendees from near and far came Motzei Shabbos and Sunday nights to benefit JEP/Nageela. The auditorium was filled to capacity and with high energy for four nights with mothers, bubbies, sisters, aunts and friends shepping nachas for their star performers.

“Being in Harmony for the first time was so exciting and fun. I waited for years while my oldest sister, cousins and friends were in it, and I couldn’t wait for it to be my turn finally! Singing and dancing every week, making new friends and getting to go on stage was amazing!” said Ruthy Haas, sixth-grade Harmony performer.

Harmony is a labor of love to Mrs. Evy Guttman, director, chief choreographer and “wizard behind the curtain” of the incredible production which she produces while teaching at Torah Academy for Girls.

“I am grateful for the help and support that so many gave to Harmony – the families and shuls that opened their doors for rehearsals, the Lawrence School Board who facilitated getting the performances off the ground, the many high school girls who devoted countless hours in cultivating the talents of the children into a magnificent production, the wonderful group of grandmothers who sponsored the cast sweatshirts, and so on,” said Mrs. Guttman. “This really was a communal project, and seeing the fruits of our labor as all the girls were smiling and shining on stage is a tremendous source of nachas not only for their talents, but for our whole community to see them come together in achdus and simcha for a cause as wonderful as JEP. Each girl contributed her talents, creativity and verve to join in something that became bigger than the sum of its parts, and it is an honor and a privilege to be a part of it.”

The fundraiser benefits JEP-LI, the local organization that provides fun educational programming to Jewish children year-round and through its sleepaway, Camp Nageela, in the summer.

“This year we were grappling with whether we were even able to orchestrate the Harmony production due to Covid restrictions,” said Rabbi Dovid Shenker, founding director of JEP/Nageela. “With the help of Hashem, the guidance and encouragement of Rabbi Eytan Feiner, coupled with the bitachon and drive of Mrs. Rivka ‘Ricki’ Molinsky and Mrs. Evy Guttman, the community was able to experience a seamless Harmony Jr. 2022.”

Attendees received a full color Harmony Jr. 2022 Playbill featuring the program schedule, list of participants, “shout-outs” to their special performer, and local ads from participating sponsors. After intermission, there was a highly-acclaimed video presentation showing the compelling dynamic that takes place between the staff and the campers from JEP-LI’s Camp Nageela.

“While watching the JEP-LI video during the Harmony performance, it made me believe so much in this organization,” said Shana Katz, former Nageela staff and current Harmony Jr. 2022 sponsor, Sweat with Shana. “To see how these kids now view religion more as connections and relationships rather than black and white rules was a huge eye opener. Understanding how these children view staff as role models will help bond them to Judaism,” she added.

Along with Sweat with Shana, Harmony Jr. 2022 generous community sponsors include Five Towns Builders; The Mishkowitz Family; Pin It Realty; Premier Assist; Precision Auto Body; Junee’s/Junee’s Jr.; Caring Professionals; Gourmet Glatt; Spring Gymnastics; Steven Krauss, DDS; Rubin Orthodontics; Fame; Yaeli Fine Art; Traditions Eatery; Prism Insurance; Comprehensive Audiology; Town Appliance; The Jewish Home; VentRight; Mosquito Shield; Healthy Home Services; Onyx; Catering by Michael Schick; and VacayWig.

For more information, visit jepli.org/ harmony or call 516-374-1528. The Harmony Jr. 2022 video and online streaming will be available for purchase. More details to come!

The Jewish Home | MARCH 31, 2022 Thanks to all the incredible Harmony Jr. 2022 Heads and Performers!

Tzipporah Deutsch - Tovi Eisikovic - Tamar Friedman - Ayala Gantz - Adina Esther Halali - Shana Hammer - Gavriella Korman - Racheli Merenstein - Nava Moskowitz - Chana Tova Schuss - Shira Schwartz - Dasi Stern - Ella Adler - Aviva Baron - Kaila Berger - Rachelli Bistricer - Sarah Caplan - Atara Cohen - Leah Fogel - Yael Hartman - Faigy Herskovits - Mindy Kagan - Shira Libman - Miriam Lichtman - Raquel Neiman - Bailey Newman - Kiki Sabo -Sari Schechter - Penina Schonkopf - Tehila Sebrow - Tzippy Witkin - Maya Avitsedek - Rikki Bodner - Dena Bokow - Abby Feldman - Suri Francis - Sari Fried - Shira Friedman - Tzipora Gerstel - Miri Goldman - Leah Gordon - Rochel - Gordon - Esti Greenfield - Leora Gross - Shayna Bluma Gross - Aviva Halpern - Sarah Leah Henoch - Temima Hirsch - Miri Goldman - Leah Gordon - Rochel - Gordon - Esti Greenfield - Leora Gross - Shayna Bluma Gross - Aviva Halpern - Sarah Leah Henoch - Temima Hirsch - Noa Hirth - Gavriella Hyman - Ella Jaroslawicz - Lea Joszef - Aliza Kaplan - Ayala Katz - Zehava Krischer - Shalva Lader - Rochel Lang - Rikki Leiner - Adina Lesser - Aliza Levine - Tzipora Lewis - Dee Dee Lowinger - Devorah Mendlowitz - Ahuva Moskowitz - Ahuva Nadelbach - Hudi Neuburger - Avigayil Olshan - Leah Orbach - Raizy Ostreicher - Gali Pirutinsky - Shifra Posen - Miri Ritvo - Shira Roberg - Shira Salzman - Chayala Schlesinger - Esti Schmukler - Chavi Siegel - Leah Orbach - Raizy Ostreicher - Gali Pirutinsky - Shifra Posen - Miri Ritvo - Shira Roberg - Shira Salzman - Chayala Schlesinger - Esti Schmukler - Chavi Siegel - Ahuva Slansky - Shayna Stern - Batzion Weinberger - Shoshana Wisotsky - Chaya Leah Witkin - Yali Wolfson - Rachel Yadgarov - Devori Agbashoff - Shira Aryeh - Daphna Austein - Rachelli Barcan - Ita Bloom - Bracha Blumstein - Tamar Danzger - Hadassah Ebert - Rena Ershowsky - Michal Feltman - Itta Forman - Dalia Friedman - Ariella Fuchs - Rivka Gamzeh - Sarah Gamzeh - Aliza Garbacz - Shaindy Glaser - Sari Glatzer - Nechama Goldberg - Shira Goldberg - Tova Grumet - Dalia Friedman - Ariella Fuchs - Rivka Gamzeh - Sarah Gamzeh - Aliza Garbacz - Shaindy Glaser - Sari Glatzer - Nechama Goldberg - Shira Goldberg - Tova Grumet - Ruthy Haas - Ahuva Helmreich - Bayla Herman - Tamara Hoffman - Noa Jacobowitz - Perela Karasick - Sori Kaufman - Aliza Kohn - Chayala Langer - Tzippy Levitin - Aliza Mandel - Bailey Mendlowitz - Tzippi Milstein - Shoshi Mosak - Mali Moskowitz - Chana Muller - Tzipporah Polatoff - Aliza Pollak - Miri Richman - Ahuva Richman - Rachaeli Rubenstein - Bailey Schiowitz - Elianna Schloss - Shira Sinensky - Esti Slansky - Hindy Steinman - Rikki Taub -Jackie Teitelbaum - Yocheved Teitelbaum - Leah Weinberg - Aviva Weinreb - Shira Wicentowsky - Bella Wolf - Miriam Wollman - Avigayil Yanofsky - Miri Yovits - Shana Rena Zlotnick - Yocheved Teitelbaum - Leah Weinberg - Aviva Weinreb - Shira Wicentowsky - Bella Wolf - Miriam Wollman - Avigayil Yanofsky - Miri Yovits - Shana Rena Zlotnick - Atara Zoldan - Hannah Adler - Rachel Avezov - Leah Tehilla Barax - Yaffa Bensoussan - Blimi Berkovics - Esther Bertram - Sara Boczko - Aliza Bryks - Zahara Burger - Naomy Fazlov - Toby Fireworker - Kayli Fox - Leeya Friedman - Ayala Gantz - Sara Goller - Shevy Grant - Adina Esther Halali - Naomi Jaffe - Chani Jaroslawicz - Atara Katz -Liba Kay - Miriam Kohn - Leeba Koschitzki - Bruriah Kotkin - Nechama Rus Lang - Lonnie Levin - Sari Marx - Emmy Muller - Rachel Musheyev - Leah Orbach Tali Rothberger Adina Schulhof Atara Shawel - Gittel Siegel - Chana Shifra Silverstein - Rivka Spitalny - Rachel Steinberg - Avigail Fein - Leah Orbach Tali Rothberger Adina Schulhof Atara Shawel - Gittel Siegel - Chana Shifra Silverstein - Rivka Spitalny - Rachel Steinberg - Avigail Fein - Rivka Merenstein - Chaya Messner - Devora Piio - Ettie Scharf - Tamara Taub - Shayna Wasser - Aliza Berger - Rachelli Benzaquen - Raquel Braunstein - Leah Bugayer - Rachel Chait - Talya Cohen - Pearly Dahan - Leah Eisenberger - Leeya Feldberg - Dassy Feldman - Chana Fogel- -Zici Fraigin - Aliza Frechter - Leah Fried - Dena Friedman - Simi Frisch - Rikki Genack - Nechama Gold - Bracha Gorlin - Nechama Greenberg - Blimi Guttman - Tilly Guttman - Dina Halberstam - Leah Fried - Dena Friedman - Simi Frisch - Rikki Genack - Nechama Gold - Bracha Gorlin - Nechama Greenberg - Blimi Guttman - Tilly Guttman - Dina Halberstam - Malka Klein - Rena Kutner - Raizy Ostreicher - Leah Polatoff - Esti Richman - Goldie Rosenman - Tova Shechter - Dasi Storch - Yehudis Taub - Molly Ackerman - Ahuva Agadi - Chana Bauman - Simi Berger - Mari Birnbaum - Rivka Bloom - Sari Bodner - Chani Dachs - Raizy Erlichman - Meirah Friedler - Rikki Friedman - Chaya Halpern - Chani Heilbrun - Huvi Hersh - Shayna Hirmes - Shana Hornung - Chana Horowitz - Chayala Kahana - Zahava Klein - Yakira Kramer - Bassheva Levison - Esti Litwin - Chaya Lorber - Devorah Lowinger - Rochel Messner - Esti Mosak - Riva Olshan - Kayla Pasternak - Devorah Pluchenik - Bassheva Levison - Esti Litwin - Chaya Lorber - Devorah Lowinger - Rochel Messner - Esti Mosak - Riva Olshan - Kayla Pasternak - Devorah Pluchenik - Esther Malka Rapfogel - Avigayil Rice - Fraidy Rosenzweig - Racheli Rossen - Shoshana Rotberg - Mindy Rubin - Chava Safier - Chaya Schreiber - Ahuva Schwartz - Miriam Singer - Tehila Singer - Bailey Singer - Chaya Sara Stein - Adina Teller - Baily Tomaszewski - Batya Tropper - Tzila Walden - Menucha Yagudaev - Mimi Zafir - Chaya Zlotowitz - Sari Adler - Shana Becker - Shoshana Berger - Chayla Berkowitz - Esther Blumenthal - Rivka Bobker - Gabi Buchinger - Naomi Dahan Mimi Zafir - Chaya Zlotowitz - Sari Adler - Shana Becker - Shoshana Berger - Chayla Berkowitz - Esther Blumenthal - Rivka Bobker - Gabi Buchinger - Naomi Dahan - Ahuva Donowitz - Gitty Engel - Bailey Feldberg - Meira Freedman - Kitchie Ganz - Naomi Gewirtz - Sara Goller - Chani Gralla - Rachel Gross - Nechama Halpern - Elisheva Kagan - Malka Katz - Rena Kelemer - Goldie Knoll - Shira Landau - Chayala Loeb - Miri Mermelstein - Evie Miller - Lily Mishaan - Shoshi Mosak - Eliana Munarov -Tova Olshan - Gitty Osina - Batsheva Perkal - Malya Renov - Penina Robinson - Noa Rosenbach - Racheli Rosenberg - Rena Rosenberg - Yael Rosenberg - Ariella Rosenman - Molly Rubin - Leah Schuckman - Ayala Schwartz - Shayna Sichel - Rayna Snow - Dina Szafranski - Miriam Vogel - Yael Rosenberg - Ariella Rosenman - Molly Rubin - Leah Schuckman - Ayala Schwartz - Shayna Sichel - Rayna Snow - Dina Szafranski - Miriam Vogel - Sophie Wieder - Chana Willig - Naftaliya Winter - Naomi Wolf - Tamar Abramson - Shanna Adler - Yahelli Azriel - Bella Weiss - Chedva Berman - Avigayil Blobstein - Simmi Bornstein - Brana Breskin - Rochel Leah Buckman - Chaya David - Sara Eisenberger - Tovi Eisikovic - Mindy Feuer - Laya Freedman - Mimi Fuchs - Rachel Gersten - Hadassah Gold - Sara Gold - Rena Goldstone - Michal Gralla - Racheli Guttmann - Goldie Haas - Atara Hoch - Miriam Kleinkaufman - Gellie Kopelowitz - Gavriella Korman - Elana Kramer - Rivka Lichtman - Livi Miller - Nava Moskowitz - Pori Mushell - Chana Paneth - Molly Pasternak - Mindy Posy Gellie Kopelowitz - Gavriella Korman - Elana Kramer - Rivka Lichtman - Livi Miller - Nava Moskowitz - Pori Mushell - Chana Paneth - Molly Pasternak - Mindy Posy - Hindy Rada - Atara Ross - Shayna Sabo - Esther Salzman - Leah Sambrowsky - Shira Sambrowsky - Zahava Samuels - Chana Tova Schuss - Rachel Simantov - Ariella Taub - Esther Teitelbaum - Avigayil Waltuch - Miri Weichholz - Bayla Abramson - Tehilla Badian - Devora Bakst - Racheli Barasch - Leora Brandsdorfer - Sorah Brecher - Ahuva Cohen - Pessy Cohen - Devora Dalezman - Shoshi Dancziger - Elisheva Dubin - Yitti Einhorn - Baily Ellenberg - Hadas Farbman - Nechama Shoshana Feldman - Chana Tehila Fliegelman - Riki Gewirtz - Dasi Glenn - Chaya Dina Gluck - Meira Greenwald - Perel Greer - Suri Habib - Eliana Hawk - Nechama Shoshana Feldman - Chana Tehila Fliegelman - Riki Gewirtz - Dasi Glenn - Chaya Dina Gluck - Meira Greenwald - Perel Greer - Suri Habib - Eliana Hawk - Simmie Hershkovich - Ahuva Hoch - Nechama Hochman - Miriam Hoffman - Shira Jacobs - Ahuva Jungreis - Adina Kalaie - Elisheva Karpman - Aviva Melmed - Bayla Meyers - Shoshana Moshayev - Miriam Pam - Mindy Pelman - Leeba Posy - Meira Reich - Lulu Rosen - Yehudis Rosenberg - Rachelle Ruzohorsky - Elisheva Schonkopf - Shira Shlomi - Ahuva Silverberg - Esti Simantov - Naomi Stern - Ahuva Teitelbaum - Faigy Teitelbaum - Fraidy Vecselberg - Tamar Waltuch - Elisheva Schonkopf - Shira Shlomi - Ahuva Silverberg - Esti Simantov - Naomi Stern - Ahuva Teitelbaum - Faigy Teitelbaum - Fraidy Vecselberg - Tamar Waltuch - Abby Weiner - Chaya Wyner - Emuna Bernson - Shuli Bloom - Aliza Blumenthal - Deenie Bokow - Ahuva Dancziger - Kayla Deutsch Elana Edelman - Zara Grauman - Sheva Greenbaum - Sima Greenbaum - Shana Hammer - Simi Hornung - Zelda Indig - Eliana Jacobs - Chani Kaminetzky - Ahuva Krengel - Shifra Kutner - Aviva Langer - Sara Lerner - Kayla Lewis - Etty Maidi - Racheli Merenstein - Faigie Muller - Atara Orbach - Ahuva Perl - Rikki Plawes - Racheli Roberg - Chana Rosenholtz - Ahuva Rubinstein - Aliza Ruvel - Dina Scheininger - Chayala Schiff - Sima Schulhof - Ruchama Schultz - Miri Silverman - Eliana Steele - Chana Rosenholtz - Ahuva Rubinstein - Aliza Ruvel - Dina Scheininger - Chayala Schiff - Sima Schulhof - Ruchama Schultz - Miri Silverman - Eliana Steele - Dasi Stern - Rochel Sussman - Basya Vogel - Yehudis Weissman - Devorah Wollman - Divorah Zucker - Aliza Abramson - Morielle Azriel - Tami Baum - Libba Berko - Brocha Blumenkrantz - Adina Bollag - Adina Bryks - Shana Cohen - Aviva Deutsch - Chevy Dicker - Leah Edelman - Yehudis Edelstein - Raquel Eisenberger - Sima Eisner - Dina Fishman - Shaina From - Ahuva Futersak - Shoshana Gade - Miri Gantz - Leah Glatstein - Racheli Gold - Ahuva Goldberg - Shoshana Goldman - Sima Eisner - Dina Fishman - Shaina From - Ahuva Futersak - Shoshana Gade - Miri Gantz - Leah Glatstein - Racheli Gold - Ahuva Goldberg - Shoshana Goldman - Tzivya Gorlin - Lili Grauman - Sheva Guttmann - Talia Hersh - Deena Hirmes - Tova Jacobs - Dina Jakubowitz - Basi Karr - Emunah Lachman - Rikki Lasker - Kaylee Lazar - Tova Leiberstein - Yehudis Lerner - Perri Levitin - Faigy Lewittes - Tzippy Litvack - Racquel Majeski - Yaffa Mandel - Sarah Messner Temima Meyers - Chana Miller - Reena Moshayev - Mindy Moskowitz - Miriam Netzer - Aliza Panzok - Pesya Plawes - Mindy Ratner - Leba Richman - Ariella Rodkin - Tali Rosenfeld Chana Miller - Reena Moshayev - Mindy Moskowitz - Miriam Netzer - Aliza Panzok - Pesya Plawes - Mindy Ratner - Leba Richman - Ariella Rodkin - Tali Rosenfeld - Sorala Rubin - Aliza Rubinstein - Aliza Schwed - Devorah Singer - Elisheva Soniker - Leah Tova Spern - Leah Szafranski - Basya Tennenbaum - Pessy Ungar - Vivi Weinberger - Esti Weinreb - Adeena Weiser - Ella Willig - Dahlia Yadgarov - Naomi Zafir - Tova Zauderer - Yael - Barcan - Sarah Miriam Biegeleisen - Leah Breskin - Talia Cohen - Ayala Cooper - Daniella Feigenbaum - Hindy Feit - Sara Fest - Sara Fireworker - Chani Frisch - Meira Devorah Frishman - Aliza Fruchter Leah Breskin - Talia Cohen - Ayala Cooper - Daniella Feigenbaum - Hindy Feit - Sara Fest - Sara Fireworker - Chani Frisch - Meira Devorah Frishman - Aliza Fruchter - Risi Fuchs - Devorah Gitelis - Atara Gitelis - Kayla Goldberg - Rachelli Gordon - Temima Gorin - Avigail Gross - Rachelle Grumet - Chavi Jungreis - Anya Klein - Leeby Kolodny - Rachelie Krimsky - Etty Kugielsky - Naava Landau - Lele Lesser - Leora Lobl - Rachelli Ludmir - Chaya Martinson - Rachel Melmed - Ahuva Mendlowitz - Bayla Mendlowitz - Rikki Moller - Eliana Moskowitz - Aliza Neuman - Dina - Neuman - Avigail Obadia - Batsheva Olshan - Esti Ostreicher - Ahuva Mendlowitz - Bayla Mendlowitz - Rikki Moller - Eliana Moskowitz - Aliza Neuman - Dina - Neuman - Avigail Obadia - Batsheva Olshan - Esti Ostreicher - Rikki Ostreicher - Chaya Devora Petegorsky - Chayala Pollak - Rikki Rand - Baily Rapaport - Hinda Esther Rothman - Beena Roz - Ahuva Rubenstein - Rina Rubenstein - Miriam Salamon - Bella Schwartz - Adina Schwed - Miri Sebrow - Meira Seif - Ita Siegel - Tzippori Silber - Esther Simai - Esti Sinensky - Rachel Sipzner - Meira Sklar - Yael Trachtenberg - Miri Weiss - Ahuva Williams - Nechama Wolff - Avigail Yaroslawitz - Rose Yurman - Leba Zinber - Shira Agbashoff - Rachel Augenbaum - Leah Bauman - Shira Bauman - Aliza Becker - Devorah Bloom - Esti Blumenkrantz - Michal Botwinick - Shira Agbashoff - Rachel Augenbaum - Leah Bauman - Shira Bauman - Aliza Becker - Devorah Bloom - Esti Blumenkrantz - Michal Botwinick - Aviva Malka Bronstein - Devori Dancykier - Tzipporah Deutsch - Rivkah Dubin - Emily Edery - Chana Fragin - Tamar Friedman - Dina Gade - Eliana Goldfeder - Ariella Hammer - Atara Harary - Menucha Hardoon - Racheli Heskiel - Shira Kagan - Miri Klein - Rachel Kornbluh - Tova Kranzler - Ayala Lantsman - Baila Mendlowitz - Mindy Neuman - Ahuva Oratz - Ariella Orlian - Esti Perl - Naomi Rapaport - Aliza Ratner - Ariella Reich - Kayla Renov - Rivka Rogoff - Elisheva Rosenberg - Simi Schick - Miriam Schoor - Shira Schwartz - Tehila Simai - Atara Tepper - Racheli Vecselberg - Naami Zakutinsky Elisheva Rosenberg - Simi Schick - Miriam Schoor - Shira Schwartz - Tehila Simai - Atara Tepper - Racheli Vecselberg - Naami Zakutinsky

“Shloshim yom kodem lachag,” 30 days before Pesach, and the Chevra at Aish Kodesh in Woodmere are diving into the limud, twice a week, with shiurim in Arvei Pesachim, the tenth perek in Maseches Pesachim. Led by the indefatigable talmid chacham Rav Simchie Weingot of Woodmere, who weaves together so brilliantly the Gemara with our Pesach Seder, the chabura meets Monday and Thursday nights at 8:15 in the shul’s Beis Medrash. The shiur and learning should be a zchus for a Refuah Shlaima for Simcha Yitzchak ben Miraleh Liatka and is open to the entire community.

A New Building at BBY

The balmy early spring air augured a magnificent evening of warm celebration on Tuesday, March 23rd as Bnos Bais Yaakov/Tichon Meir Moshe celebrated its twenty-eighth annual dinner. The Sands Atlantic Beach filled to capacity, as enthusiastic guests arrived, eager to show their support for this unique, burgeoning institution. Not a single parking spot was left open.

The dinner opened with a wine-tasting event conducted by Spruce Divine to show hakaras hatov to several of BBY’s close friends and supporters. As the main event opened, attendees enjoyed a luxuriant buffet reception in the anteroom, after which the crowd adjourned to the main ballroom. An excited buzz filled the air, as people reveled in the ability to assemble in a way they hadn’t for several years and a sumptuous dinner was promptly served. Dinner Chairman and Master of Ceremonies Mr. Yehudah Zachter welcomed the record-breaking crowd, which included more parents, grandparents and alumnae than ever before. He announced the appointment of several new officers who have joined the ranks of BBY’s executive board.

The dinner honored Mr. and Mrs. Charlie and Dena Harary as Guests of Honor and Rabbi and Mrs. Baruch Chiya and Michal Aryeh as Parents of the Year. Dr. and Mrs. Yair and Milka Keilson received the Keser Shem Tov award, and Mr. and Mrs. Moshe and Ashley Hammer received the Young Leadership Award. Each of these couples is a paradigm of chessed and oskim b’tzorchei tzibbur, and we are proud and grateful to count them among our parents and close supporters.

Executive Director Rabbi Ephraim Blumenkrantz took the podium, speaking of the strong footing on which Bnos Bais Yaakov stands as the pride of the community, a school bursting at the seams with more and more families clambering to join its ranks. Tichon Meir Moshe specifically has grown exponentially over the years, and Rabbi Blumenkrantz announced a campaign to construct a new high school building on the Bnos Bais Yaakov campus.

Trustee Mr. Yoeli Edelstein then took the podium and thanked Dime Bank, represented at the dinner by Bank Manager Ms. Diane Duel and Vice President of Commercial Lending Ms. Giselle Sellino, for enabling this undertaking by arranging and executing a refinance package that greatly benefitted BBY. Dime Bank is committed to supporting BBY through this capital expansion endeavor. Concurrently, he announced BBY’s intention to join Torah Umesorah’s initiative in raising teacher salaries incrementally across the board over the coming years.

Honoree Mr. Charlie Harary addressed a spellbound audience about what it is that makes Bnos Bais Yaakov tick. Mr. Harary identified the palpable simcha that permeates the entire school as the linchpin which enables the academic, emotional and spiritual growth engendered by BBY and TMM.

The evening closed with a stunning musical performance by Baruch Chiya Aryeh of Shalsheles, Tzvi Sussman, Yaakov Kashi, Joey Newcomb, Eitan Katz and Eli Levin and Shlomo Reich, six fathers of BBY and TMM students, who sang “A Father’s Tefillah” – a stirring song composed for Bnos Bais Yaakov – as well as several of their own compositions, accompanied by a live band. Attendees left on a high, the glow of BBY evident in their smiles.

We thank all attendees for their friendship and support of Bnos Bais Yaakov and look forward to continued success together.

Bnos Bais Yaakov/Tichon Meir Moshe is embarking on the construction of a monumental new building on the Bnos Bais Yaakov campus, with the capacity to house one thousand students. This building will house the rapidly growing Tichon Meir Moshe High School, which has swelled by 150% in just the last five years, as well as the junior high school of Bnos Bais Yaakov. Slated to have forty classrooms, the 70,000 square foot building will also boast a gym for each division, science labs, libraries, and auditoriums. Several study areas and lounges, both indoors and out, will afford students space to complete assignments and projects. The outdoor amenities will include a rooftop yard, as well as several sitting areas. A large driveway will help to alleviate traffic on Caffrey Avenue and Beach Ninth Street.

Please join us in this essential endeavor and enable us to continue to offer excellence in education to our growing student body.

The Jewish Home | MARCH 31, 2022The Jewish Home | MARCH 31, 2022 YSZ Holds Chagigat Chumash L’Zecher Rav Chaim Kanievsky, zt”l YSZ Holds Chagigat Chumash L’Zecher Rav Chaim Kanievsky, zt”l

There’s perhaps nothing more powerful than beholding the sweet innocence of children as they embrace the depth and beauty of their heritage. Sunday’s Chagigat Chumash at YSZ was truly special.

The celebrations for the 1st grade boys and 2nd grade girls each began with an address by Rabbi Fridman who spoke about Rav Chaim Kanievsky, zt”l, and how the Chagigat Chumash events were truly a fitting tribute to his living legacy – a life completely given over to Torah and Yirat Shamayim.

The students sang songs about the sweetness and richness of Torah learning, and each student was presented with a Chumash with their name embossed in gold. The children were so proud to receive and hold their very own Chumashim!

After the events, each student received a Chumash-themed package filled with goodies.

Special thanks to Rabbi Fridman, Mrs. Khaimov, and Mrs. Pahlaef for arranging the logistics of the events as well as the dedicated teachers who went above and beyond to prepare their students for this important milestone. May our students hold onto their pride and

There’s perhaps nothing more powerful than beholding the sweet innocence of children as they embrace the depth and beauty of their heritage. Sunday’s Chagigat Chumash at YSZ was truly special.

The celebrations for the 1st grade boys and 2nd grade girls each began with an address by Rabbi Fridman who spoke about Rav Chaim Kanievsky, zt”l, and how the Chagigat Chumash events were truly a fitting tribute to his living legacy – a life completely given over to Torah and Yirat Shamayim.

The students sang songs about the sweetness and richness of Torah learning, and each student was presented with a Chumash with their name embossed in gold. The children were so proud to receive and hold their very own excitement for learning Torah for years Chumashim! to come. We wish them a hearty mazal

After the events, each student re- tov and much success as they embark on ceived a Chumash-themed package this new journey!

filled with goodies.

Special thanks to Rabbi Fridman, Mrs. Khaimov, and Mrs. Pahlaef for arranging the logistics of the events as well as the dedicated teachers who went above and beyond to prepare their students for this important milestone. May our students hold onto their pride and excitement for learning Torah for years to come. We wish them a hearty mazal tov and much success as they embark on this new journey!

Ohel Children’s Home and Family Services Thanks U.S. Senate Majority Ohel Children’s Home and Family Services Thanks U.S. Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer for $495K Grant to Support Inclusive Camp Kaylie Leader Chuck Schumer for $495K Grant to Support Inclusive Camp Kaylie

Ohel Children’s Home and Family Services recently announced the approval of a $495,000 grant to support the organization’s Camp Kaylie located in Wurtsboro, NY. The funding was secured by U.S. Senator Majority Leader Charles Schumer in the 2022 federal budget.

Founded in 2013, Camp Kaylie offers all campers, including those with disabilities, an exciting and memorable summer camp experience. The inclusive program encourages all campers to flourish and engage in a wide variety of meaningful programming within a community defined by kindness, sportsmanship, personal responsibility, and mutual respect.

“Camp Kaylie is a remarkable, fully-integrated experience that promotes individualization and acceptance of all campers,” said David Mandel, CEO of Ohel Children’s Home and Family Services. “We express the utmost gratitude to Senator Schumer as this funding will fuel maintenance updates throughout the campgrounds and provide campers better onsite experiences.”

Senator Schumer noted, “Ohel’s Camp Kaylie is exactly the kind of project that this process was designed to support. The positive impact of Camp Kaylie is priceless, and I’m pleased to support Ohel in their important work providing social and emotional services to campers and their families in New York.”

The funding will impact two significant areas of Camp Kaylie: the installation of new generators and an upgraded infirmary. New generators will ensure that the camp sustains 24/7 power while preventing interruptions among vital equipment. As Camp Kaylie has grown,

Ohel Children’s Home and Family Services recently announced the approval of a $495,000 grant to the demands on the infirmary have also grown. These funds will allow the renovation of the infirmary, enhancing the support the organization’s Camp Kaylie camp’s ability to provide optimal care to located in Wurtsboro, NY. The funding all campers, including those that require was secured by U.S. Senator Majority medications. Leader Charles Schumer in the 2022 fed- Senator Schumer added, “All of the eral budget. upcoming improvements are designed

Founded in 2013, Camp Kaylie offers to support the physical and emotional all campers, including those with disabil- health of Camp Kaylie campers. I look ities, an exciting and memorable summer forward to Camp Kaylie having another camp experience. The inclusive program wonderful summer.” encourages all campers to flourish and Learn more about Ohel’s Camp Kaylie engage in a wide variety of meaningful by visiting https://campkaylie.org.

programming within a community defined by kindness, sportsmanship, personal responsibility, and mutual respect.

“Camp Kaylie is a remarkable, fully-integrated experience that promotes individualization and acceptance of all campers,” said David Mandel, CEO of Ohel Children’s Home and Family Services. “We express the utmost gratitude to Senator Schumer as this funding will fuel maintenance updates throughout the campgrounds and provide campers better onsite experiences.”

Senator Schumer noted, “Ohel’s Camp Kaylie is exactly the kind of project that this process was designed to support. The positive impact of Camp Kaylie is priceless, and I’m pleased to support Ohel in their important work providing social and emotional services to campers and their families in New York.”

The funding will impact two significant areas of Camp Kaylie: the installation of new generators and an upgraded infirmary. New generators will ensure that the camp sustains 24/7 power while preventing interruptions among vital equipment. As Camp Kaylie has grown, the demands on the infirmary have also grown. These funds will allow the renovation of the infirmary, enhancing the camp’s ability to provide optimal care to all campers, including those that require medications.

Senator Schumer added, “All of the upcoming improvements are designed to support the physical and emotional health of Camp Kaylie campers. I look forward to Camp Kaylie having another wonderful summer.”

Learn more about Ohel’s Camp Kaylie by visiting https://campkaylie.org.

NYPD Shomrim Society Dinner NYPD Shomrim Society Dinner

On Thursday, March 24, members of The NYPD Shomrim Society hosted their highly anticipated Annual Dinner Dance and Installation of Officers. As we reconnect with friends and loved ones after over two years without large public gatherings, newly elected President Philip Weisbord greeted event goers with great pride. NYPD Chief of Department Kenneth Corey commended the NYPD Shomrim Society for their efforts in support of their Jewish membership

On Thursday, March 24, members of The NYPD Shomrim Society hosted their highly anand the city as a whole. Chief Chaplain, and NYPD Shomrim Society Spiritual Director, Dr. Rabbi Alvin Kass led the ticipated Annual Dinner Dance and In- prayer over the event and broke bread stallation of Officers. As we reconnect with special guest NYC Mayor Eric Adwith friends and loved ones after over ams. The newly elected board members two years without large public gath- were honored by Mayor Adams, who aderings, newly elected President Phil- ministered their oath of office and spoke ip Weisbord greeted event goers with passionately about fighting crime on begreat pride. NYPD Chief of Department half of all NYC residents. Kenneth Corey commended the NYPD The NYPD Shomrim Society thanks Shomrim Society for their efforts in all who attended their Annual Dinner support of their Jewish membership Dance, in person and in spirit.

and the city as a whole. Chief Chaplain, and NYPD Shomrim Society Spiritual Director, Dr. Rabbi Alvin Kass led the prayer over the event and broke bread with special guest NYC Mayor Eric Adams. The newly elected board members were honored by Mayor Adams, who administered their oath of office and spoke passionately about fighting crime on behalf of all NYC residents.

The NYPD Shomrim Society thanks all who attended their Annual Dinner Dance, in person and in spirit.

This past Sunday, 5 Towns Little League, sponsored by FM Home Loans, opened the season with a practice week. The boys braved the cold, windy day and showcased their skills! Each baseball team enjoyed a practice with their coach followed by a scrimmage game against another team. The regular season starts next week. 5TLL is the premier local little league drawing boys from across the Five Towns and from schools like Darchei, YKLI and YOSS. The 5TLL Spring season starts in March and runs through June. Games are played each Sunday at Lawrence Middle School or the Inwood #2 School. There are divisions starting with kindergarten boys playing coach pitch tee ball and running up through middle schoolers playing competitive softball.

Soccer Recap

The soccer division enjoyed evaluations and drills with the results being used to make teams for their regular season that also kicks off next Sunday. There is a K/P Division and a 1st/2nd Division.

Swag Alert

Every league participant received a baseball bat bag courtesy of FM Home Loans. There were also other prizes and giveaways.

Baseball Fun Fact

The life span of a major league baseball is 5–7 pitches. During a typical MLB game, approximately 70 balls are used!

MTA Skills Development Initiative

MTA recently launched a new initiative to help talmidim develop sophisticated research, reading, writing, organization, analysis, and presentation skills starting in freshman year that are of tremendous value during their high school years and beyond. This program was created by a group of teachers and administrators during regular think tank-style meetings aimed to devise creative and meaningful educational programming. The program consists of experiential learning opportunities as well as concrete assignments that enable talmidim to learn and practice these skills each semester, with the goal of crafting a final project during senior year that is worthy of being published in university-level academic journals.

The program kicked off with workshops for freshmen and seniors that were organized by MTA’s History Department. The sessions were led by New York Public Library representatives, who distributed New York Public Library cards to each talmid and also gave a presentation to each grade on how to conduct research using the NYPL’s extensive database of academic journals. Although many MTA talmidim are not NY State residents, they are still eligible for NYPL cards since they are full-time students in a New York school, which is just one of the many benefits of MTA.

“This program has generated a lot of excitement among both our talmidim and faculty,” shared History Instructor Mrs. Rivka Djavaheri. “Although the History Department has taken the lead on this project, the skills that we will teach talmidim through hands-on learning experiences, like this one, are cross-disciplinary. At the conclusion of the program, talmidim will be able to conduct their research in a field of personal interest to them – whether that be Science, History, Literature, Business, Political Science, Engineering, the Fine Arts, Psychology, Judaic Studies, or Math - the options are endless.”

תורֵחְל תודְבעֵמ הָחְמִשְל ןֹוגָיִמ

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The Jewish Home | MARCH 31, 2022 Aish Annual Dinner

This past Monday evening, Aish Kodesh celebrated their 29th annual dinner at the Woodmere Club. The theme of this year’s dinner was, “Avodah Shebalev – The Selfless Service of Others.” Each one of the honorees exemplified this theme, all representing a Kehilla of individuals that have given of themselves to build and grow the shul into the world renown makom Torah and tefillah that it is today.

Debbie and David Aidelson, longtime members of the shul and former president, were the guests of honor. Nataly and Eitan Magendzo were the Nahum Gordon, z”l, Community Service recipients, and Daniella and Sam Schertz were the Young Leadership awardees.

As the shul continues to experience phenomenal growth over the last few years, the dinner was the first opportunity in over two years for the entire Kehilla to gather again in person and reflect on that growth. With new shiurim, speakers, programming, classes, trips, chessed initiatives and so much more, the shul continues to play a vital role to the Five Towns community and beyond. The honorees, and so many of the chevra in the shul, play a crucial role in spreading the message and mission of Rav Moshe Weinberger, shlita, and Aish Kodesh through their selfless service of others.

Mr. Charlie Harary, long time mispallel and talmid of Rav Weinberger, was the emcee for the evening, speaking passionately about the youth of our community and how they have been inspired through the Torah and tefillah that emanates from Aish Kodesh every day. Mr. Yaakov (Jeff) Zoldan, representing the shul leadership, presented to the crowd the staggering number of new members to join the shul in the last two years, welcoming by name every one of the 73 new members to join the Shul in the last year, 127 in the last two, including the names of the newest members who had only just joined the morning of the dinner! Giving chizuk to new members to get involved and make a difference, he encouraged with “in dreams begin responsibilities; in dreams begin realities; and here at Aish Kodesh we dream big.”

Following the incredibly moving and inspiring video of the honorees, Rav Moshe Weinberger addressed the crowd speaking quite emotionally about the importance of the next generation and the role that Aish Kodesh plays in inspiring them to be true and committed Jews.

The dinner was truly a beautiful event, with record participation, celebrating the 29th year of the shul. Members and friends left truly inspired to help spread the message of Rav Weinberger to their own families and community.

Upon leaving the Club, the guests were presented with the newly published Haggadah by Rav Moshe Weinberger, which will be sure to enhance the Seder table. Aish Kodesh thanks the dinner committee, especially Ahron Rosenthal and Dov Perkal, for spearheading and capturing the essence of the shul through this dinner, and of course the honorees, for their efforts in this beautiful event.

Last week, DRS held its tenth annual Nedivei Lev Service Society Induction Ceremony. This special ceremony recognizes DRS students that have shown exemplary service to their community and school through extraordinary acts of chessed and kindness. The ceremony honored members of the senior class who have served their school and the larger community with great distinction. The ceremony was attended by the entire student body, as well as faculty and parents.

Rabbi Eli Brazil, Director of Student Activities, delivered some opening remarks and discussed the Nedivei Lev Service Society as well as the concept of chessed and giving to others.

The keynote speaker was Micah Kaufman. After surviving life-threatening injuries in an accident in 2019, Micah Kaufman decided to spend his time encouraging others to perform acts of chessed – acts of lovingkindness – which he said helped see him through his ordeal.

What made the program truly unique was that the students were given awards by the directors and founders of many of the organizations that were the beneficiaries of the great chessed done by DRS students. Mr. Andy Lauber of i-Shine presented Judah Leifer, Noak Krup, and Aryeh Klier, with an award for their involvement mentoring boys who have a family member struggling with illness. Rabbi Ephraim Polakoff lauded Josh Aryeh for his dedication to Hatzalah Israel and other volunteer work. Rabbi Aaron Fleksher offered words of Hakarat HaTov to Aiden Weiss and Andrew Haller for all of their work on behalf of DRSLive, which broadcasts DRS Sporting Events to the internet. Rabbi Lieberman of the Premier Nursing Home in Woodmere applauded Reuben Gampel and Noah Birnbaum for playing music for the residents of the facility and lifting their spirits. Rabbi Wolowik recognized Shmuel Bennun for his contributions and volunteer work at Chabad’s Friendship Circle. Mr. Jeff Young of Shalom Task Force honored Tani Englander, Isaac Thurm, Spencer Beckerman and Marc Talansky for their work in spreading the message and mission of the important organization. Rabbi Storch commended Ephraim Herrmann and Zack Rosenberg for their hard work in producing and publishing DRS’s weekly Torah publication to shuls all across the neighborhood, spreading the Torah of DRS. DRS Alum Eitan Aryeh, who works for YACHAD, thanked Gabriel Trauring for his involvement with Yachad. Mrs. Brofsky, Volunteer Services Manager of the JCC, thanked Asaf Perl for his commitment to packing food for the needy through their chessed programming.

A big yasher koach to all the honorees on their chessed and to Student Activities Director Rabbi Brazil who coordinates all chessed opportunities in DRS.

לֶבֵאֵמ בֹוט םֹויְל הָלֵפֲאֵמו לֹודָג רֹואְל

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Turn tension and tears into true tranquility

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The Jewish Home | MARCH 31, 2022 Gedolei Yisrael in Eretz Yisrael Give Guidance and Express Excitement about New Dirshu Chaburas Hashas Iyun Program

By Chaim Gold

“I am very excited about this program because it combines both yedias haTorah with learning b’iyun in a way that will tremendously enrich any participant.”

Those were the words of HaGaon HaRav Dovid Cohen, shlita, Rosh Yeshivas Chevron, about the new Dirshu Chaburas HaShas program, said at a pivotal meeting attended by HaGaon HaRav Moshe Hillel Hirsch, shlita, Rosh Yeshiva of the Slabodka Yeshiva, and Rav Dovid Hofstedter, shlita, Nasi Dirshu, together with senior members of hanhalas Dirshu.

That meeting was the culmination of several meetings with senior Gedolei Yisrael in Eretz Yisrael that included meetings with Hagaon HaRav Shalom Cohen, shlita, Rosh Yeshivat Porat Yosef, and the Sanzer Rebbe, shlita.

Details of the Program

The new Dirshu Chaburas HaShas iyun program is making waves throughout the world. The program, the first of its kind, has taken the olam haTorah by storm because it offers an opportunity to learn one masechta after another in a framework where people who want to learn the Gemara in a deeper, more comprehensive manner than achieved through the framework of the Daf HaYomi. The program enables one to learn Shas with Tosafos and the main Rishonim and Acharonim.

One maggid shiur related, “For years I have wondered when I would be able to complete Shas. Daf HaYomi is not practical for me. Now, however, with Dirshu’s new Chaburas HaShas program I can learn two and a half blatt a week, which equals ten blatt per month of Gemara, Rashi, Tosafos, and the main Rishonim and Acharonim on the sugya. In this way, I can complete the entire Shas with this type of ‘iyun kal,’ in less than two decades. It is such an opportunity! Such a windfall!”

At the Dirshu convention held last month in Stamford, Connecticut, the highlight of the Melave Malka Siyum on Seder Moed was the announcement by Rav Dovid Hofstedter about a new Dirshu program, “Dirshu Chaburas HaShas.” At the time, Rav Hofstedter painted an outline of the exciting program with broad brushstrokes, but now as the program’s launch this coming Rosh Chodesh Iyar is coming steadily closer, Dirshu has released the details of the program and they have been met with great anticipation and joy by the olam haTorah around the world.

The new Chaburas HaShas program will feature two tracks. Track one is Gemara, Rashi and Tosafos with a thirty-question test every month. Track two will feature Gemara, Rashi, Tosafos, and a list of maarei mekomos from the Rishonim and Acharonim prepared under the guidance of Rav Dovid Cohen, Rosh Yeshivas Chevron.

Rav Moshe Hillel Hirsch:

This is Just the Program that Many Yungeleit have

Been Waiting For

At a fascinating meeting attended by Rav Moshe Hillel Hirsch, Rav Dovid Cohen, Rav Dovid Hofstedter and senior members of hanhalas Dirshu the program was discussed. The meeting focused both on the importance of the program and on the appropriate time for avreichim to learn the program.

Rav Moshe Hillel explained, “Every yungerman needs to learn in a way that is fitting for him and in a way that gives him sipuk hanefesh – satisfaction. For many yungeleit, this kind of program, either the first track or the second track, is exactly what they have been waiting for. I think this is a very good program for a person who wants to learn sugyos with some iyun; a yungerman who wants to go beyond the superficial but wants to simultaneously cover ground in a structured program. I always tell my talmidim and yungeleit who come to me that they must learn in a way that is fitting for them and their own individual needs. I think this program can bring tremendous to’eles, to many, many avreichim.

“I think Rav Dovid Hofstedter and Dirshu are doing an amazing thing by offering such a program to Klal Yisrael.”

Rav Dovid Cohen:

Getting to the “Heart” of the Sugya

Rav Dovid Cohen, Rosh Yeshiva of Chevron, related that Rav Yisroel Salanter writes that when it comes to learning Torah there are two distinct obligations. One is to understand the depth of Torah with pilpulim and the other is to understand the wide-ranging breadth of Torah.

“What is so special about this program? What is the reason I am so excited about it? This program allows for the learning of both in a way that is very fitting for so many lomdei Torah. Of course, during morning seder, lomdei Torah learn with great iyun and hear shiurim on what they learn. Because of that, however, they generally do not cover so much ground in the morning seder. A program like Chaburas HaShas can allow a person to cover ten blatt a month but at the same time he can absorb the ‘heart’ of the sugya rather than learn it in a superficial manner. He can gain clarity from an important Rashba, Ritva or Rabi Akiva Eiger that sheds light on the entire sugya. When one learns just Gemara, Rashi and Tosafos, he may be missing the ‘heart’ of some sugyos. This program offers a beautiful synthesis of both cover-

Hanhalas Dirshu meeting with HaRav Moshe Hillel Hirsch and HaRav Dovid Cohen

ing ground while simultaneously really learning with an understanding that goes beyond superficial bekius.”

Rav Cohen went on to say that for those learning Track Two, the iyun kal, the learning can be done either during afternoon seder or night seder, but for those learning in Track One that just covers Gemara, Rashi and Tosafos, it should be learned either during night seder or bein hasedarim.

“I think this program is a great tikkun, it performs a great service to Klal Yisrael,” Rav Dovid concluded.

Rabbi Avigdor Bernstein, a senior member of hanhalas Dirshu, explained, “Most night seder programs for kollel yungeleit in Eretz Yisrael do not have a structured program. Rather, the avreichim learn with chavrusos whatever they agree upon to learn. Chaburas HaShas is presenting a structured program with Tosafos or with iyun kal that can give a yungerman tremendous cheshek and an opportunity to learn masechta after masechta with a degree of iyun on which he can be tested and receive a stipend! It is a winwin situation.”

Meetings with

Rav Shalom Cohen and

The Sanzer Rebbe

The hanhalah of Dirshu also met with Rav Shalom Cohen, senior Sephardic Rosh Yeshiva, in his home in the Old City of Yerushalayim. Rav Cohen hailed the program as a program that would give tremendous cheshek to lomdei Torah and increase their knowledge exponentially. He praised Dirshu for designing programs that encourage limud haTorah at all times, filling up the “holes” in the weekly schedule with learning programs that increase yedias haTorah.

Rav Hofstedter and hanhalas Dirshu also met with the Sanzer Rebbe who gave his heartfelt bracha to the program and spoke about the efforts that his father, the previous Sanz-Klausenberger Rebbe, invested in ensuring that the generation would possess a cadre of Shas Yidden who not only learned Shas superficially but rather learned it with great depth and were able to be tested on it. The new Chaburas HaShas program and its details infused the Rebbe with great simcha.

Rav Dovid Hofstedter concluded the meeting with Rav Moshe Hillel Hirsch and Rav Dovid Cohen by mentioning the fact that all of Klal Yisroel is in deep mourning upon the petirah of Rav Chaim Kanievsky, zt”l, who so supported Dirshu’s efforts to spread Torah. “There is a tremendous Torah void in the world with the passing of the Sar HaTorah. We must all do our part to fill that void by learning more Torah both in quality and quantity. This new Chaburas HaShas program with the constant guidance of the Gedolei Yisrael can help us fill that void.”

New Book and Music Album to Enliven Your Yom Tov Preparations

Pesach is coming…

And wow! So is Uncle Moishy!

With a brand new book and music album, Uncle Moishy will make the run-up to Pesach the best time ever – for both children and their parents!

First, let’s take a look at Uncle Moishy: The Very Best Pesach Surprise.

There’s great excitement in Meir and Malka’s house. Pesach is coming, and there is so much to do. Mommy has to rest because she’s just brought home the new twins! How will the family be ready in time for the Seder? No worries! Uncle Moishy is here to help! Together with Pesach food, he’s bringing Pesach lessons and Pesach fun.

Like the other bestselling books in the Uncle Moishy series, Uncle Moishy: The Very Best Pesach Surprise will delight children as it teaches them lessons in responsibility, in teamwork, and in doing mitzvos with zerizus.

With its engaging illustrations and charming rhymes, Uncle Moishy: The Very Best Pesach Surprise will make Pesach prep, and the holiday itself, a time of happiness and laughter, something the entire family will enjoy together.

And now for the music album, Pesach with Uncle Moishy!

Take about a masterpiece!

This incredible Pesach album, produced and arranged by the multi-talented, world-renowned producer and arranger Doni Gross, is filled with mega musical arrangements and incredible, upbeat songs sung as only Uncle Moishy can, keeping kids entertained and engaged.

Including 10 tracks of today’s popular songs, with new, carefully selected lyrics written by Chayala Neuhaus and Perry Binet, it is a fun, exciting, powerful, and educational album with beautiful Jewish concepts for everyone and practical lessons to carry you all year. Whether it’s lessons for younger ones or older ones, all listeners are bound to walk away with our Jewish pride, love for Torah, and an overall amazing positive feeling.

“Uncle Moishy has a special way of tapping into kids while still keeping it fun and light, and bringing across important messages in such a positive way,” says Doni Gross. “Uncle Moishy’s focus is not just on teaching about Yiddishkeit, but giving children the feeling and warmth of Yiddishkeit.”

Turn on Pesach with Uncle Moishy and sing along to the fabulous music as foundational Jewish values are being instilled.

“By the time friends and family have joined one another on the Seder night, even our youngest guests will know the story and songs by heart and be ready to join in,” says Uncle Moishy. “But be prepared! The enchanting songs will enter the hearts of everyone, from the youngest to the oldest, enlivening everyone’s Pesach preparations.”

Enjoy the Uncle Moishy book and music album, making memories while you’re making Pesach!

דוּבעִשִמו הָלֻאְגִל

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