Community Corner

Held in Jerusalem, Israel – April 27-28

The inaugural JNS International Policy Summit, held at the Waldorf Astoria in Jerusalem on April 27-28, brought together political, religious, and media leaders to discuss Israel’s future. Against the stunning backdrop of Jerusalem, the event focused on Israel’s security, international diplomacy, and the internal challenges following the October 7th massacre by Hamas terrorists.

As Queens prepares for the most significant overhaul of its bus system in nearly 70 years, local residents are facing a mix of opportunities and challenges. New routes, faster trips, and major service changes go into effect starting June 30. With sweeping updates set to reshape daily commutes, we explain how the new network will affect your ride, your routine, and your neighborhood—and what you need to do now to stay ahead of the curve.

In a poignant evening of heroism, sacrifice, and resilience, the Young Israel of Hillcrest, in collaboration with Israel Bonds, hosted its annual Rabbi Simcha zt”l and Esther Krauss Lecture Series on Wednesday, April 30. The event transcended mere commemoration; it was a profound journey into the heart and soul of the Jewish people.

In a major step for Queens, the City Council has officially approved the Metropolitan Park proposal, marking progress toward the transformation of the Citi Field parking lot into a vibrant $8 billion development. Spearheaded by Mets owner Steve Cohen in partnership with Hard Rock International, this ambitious project promises a casino, hotel, live entertainment venues, and a 25-acre public park.

A Gentle Soul With An Eye For Hashem’s Creation

With profound sorrow, the Queens Bukharian Jewish community joins in mourning the tragic and untimely murder of Yitzhak Alishayev z”l (Yitzchak ben Mazal)—known legally and occasionally as Igor—who was killed on Shabbos, May 3, during a nature photography trip in Turkey. He was 45 years old.

MHelen Hoffman (née Kurz), born in a displaced persons’ camp after the Holocaust, is a distinguished member of both the Holocaust Museum’s Speakers Bureau and Torah Umesorah’s Holocaust Speakers Program. She is among the first participants in the Names, Not Numbers® oral history project.