NATION Celebrating

An extended Flatbush Family spends a meaningful evening together dedicated to Israel’s 75th birthday.

Nearly 4,000 Flatbush parents, students, staff and community members gathered at the Coney Island Amphitheater on Yom Ha'atzmaut to celebrate their love of Medinat Yisrael. This YOF production, featuring famous singers Mordechai Shapiro and Joey Newcomb, was one of a kind.

“While our community consists of many different backgrounds and traditions, it is on this day that everyone gathers to commemorate, to pray, to celebrate and to show gratitude for the greatest gift Hashem has given us, as one unified people – דחא בלב דחא שיאכ,” shared Elementary Head of School, Rabbi Yahel Tsaidi. The event space was designed to make guests feel transported to Jerusalem. Upon entering the venue, guests came upon “Machane Flatbush,” an Israelistyle shuk, that brought with it the smells and flavors of the Jewish homeland. Popular Israeli snacks and drinks from Holon, ice pops from 32 F, and a barbecue dinner from Prept by Ray T, were available throughout the night. YOF exclusive concert merchandise was also for sale so attendees could have a memento from the night.

A meaningful Yom HaZikaron program began with a siren that signaled a moment of silence to honor those who lost their lives. After the Elementary School choir, led by Ricky Sasson, performed two beautiful and moving songs, Rabbi Tsaidi addressed and welcomed the crowd. JBHS Head of School Rabbi Joseph Beyda led the huge group in a powerful Tefillah Chagigit with several students who joined him onstage for Hallel. The JBHS choir and chamber choir, led by Mordy Weinstein, rocked the house and warmed up the crowd for special guest Joey Newcomb. Families had a great time singing along to a popular favorite, “Thank You, Hashem.”

Throughout the evening, kids waved flags, interlocked arms, and held electric candles and thundersticks as they sang together. Next, the famous Mordechai Shapiro had guests dancing nonstop during his epic performance, which included famous hits “B’yachad” and “Ani Yehudi”. The night also included a spectacular light show. As a special surprise, the Flatbush Elementary School Chamber Choir, led by Eric Stern, took the stage to perform with Mordechai Shapiro. The evening ended in true YOF fashion when JBHS Dean of Students Rabbi Naftali Besser joined Mordechai Shapiro on stage for “Hatikvah.” Hearing and watching thousands of Flatbush Family members of Klal Yisrael sing together was a beautiful moment to behold.

"I'm so proud to be a part of a Yeshivah community which demonstrates its support for Medinat Yisrael in such an inspiring way. Love for Israel, achdut, gratitude to Hashem and togetherness pervaded every moment of the program," added Rabbi Beyda.

Special thanks to Special Events Coordinator Hana Hasson and Events Associate Esther Chehova for all of the effort they put in to make sure this spectacular evening was a success.