Community Corner

In February of last year, the Israel Chesed Center held the inaugural “Shabbat B’yachad Nenatzeach” / Israel Unity Shabbat, an extraordinary event uniting Jewish communities across the 5 Towns, Long Beach, West Hempstead, and Oceanside. Over 40 shuls and yeshivot participated, with 25 Chayalim joining these communities for a Shabbat filled with achdut (unity) and chizuk (strengthening). It was a powerful display of solidarity with the soldiers who serve Israel, and a meaningful experience that left an indelible mark on all who attended.

Students from the Marsha Stern Talmudical Academy (MTA) have partnered with Met Council, America’s largest Jewish charity dedicated to serving the needy, to create and distribute over 100 care packages for university students on financial aid in honor of Chanukah.

In last week’s parshah, Yosef revealed himself to his brothers after not seeing them for 22 years, The pasuk states: “Vayomer Yosef el echav: Ani Yosef. Ha’od avi chai? V’lo yachlu echav laanos oso ki nivhalu mi’panav. – And Yosef said to his brothers, ‘I am Yosef. Is my father still alive?’ But his brothers could not answer him because they were left disconcerted before him (B’reishis 45:3).”

This past Motza’ei Shabbos, December 28, Bet Midrash Tov lit up Kew Gardens Hills with a lively and unforgettable Chanukah party for local children. The air buzzed with excitement as upbeat music set the tone, and a hilarious magician left everyone in stitches with his jaw-dropping tricks. Guests enjoyed delicious pizza, freshly-popped popcorn, and a thrilling raffle featuring top-notch prizes that had everyone on the edge of their seats. It was an evening packed with fun, laughter, and Chanukah spirit!

Hundreds celebrated Chabad of Forest Hills North’s tenth annual “Chanukah on the Park.” A menorah made of ice, a fire show, music, and Chanukah chocolate gelt thrown down from a Fire Department truck were part of the fun on Thursday, December 26, at Yellowstone Park in Forest Hills.

In honor of Chanukah, Chazaq hosted a memorable and inspiring event at Beit Eliyahou of Forest Hills. The pre-Chanukah celebration was a beautiful evening for the women of the community, featuring an engaging lecture by Rebbetzin Amit Yaghoubi, a delicious dinner provided by Sushi Fusion, and an exciting sufganiyah-decorating activity.