Community Corner

For generations, Queens Valley Playground (KGH Shabbos Park) has been a haven for local families, a place where children cool off in the spray showers on hot summer days, enjoy the afternoon breeze while soaring high on the swings and climbing bars, and where budding athletes face off in friendly competition. Now, the beloved neighborhood park is set to undergo a major transformation – not just for aesthetics, but to help protect the neighborhood from flooding.

The 6th Annual “Light Up The Night” Chanukah celebration, organized by Rabbi Shmuel Kogan of Ganeinu Academy with his wife Shevi, was a dazzling success. Initially scheduled for Sunday, the event was rescheduled to Monday, December 30, from 6:45 to 8:15 p.m., to accommodate working parents and avoid predicted inclement weather. The event attracted an astounding 1,800 participants, making it a true community highlight.

This past New Year’s Eve and Day, Queens Shmira once again stepped up to honor and thank New York’s dedicated first responders. In a heartfelt initiative, the organization spearheaded a “Meals for Heroes” drive, delivering delicious food to members of New York’s Finest and Bravest who spent the holiday away from their families to serve and protect our city. Partnering with Queens Jewish Link and other generous sponsors, this effort brought smiles and gratitude to precincts and firehouses across Queens.

As the temperatures drop, the Chaverim of Queens and Great Neck dispatch line has seen its annual uptick in call volume. In response to the growing demand for non-medical emergency assistance, the organization – now in its 17^th year – has once again equipped a new group of volunteers with essential emergency response tools.

Over 300 community members gathered with tremendous Jewish pride for the Chabad of Briarwood Menorah Lighting and Car Menorah Parade on the first night of Chanukah, Wednesday, December 25. The celebration began at Hoover Manton Park shortly after 5 p.m., where Rabbi Dovi and Chani Steinmetz, co-directors of Chabad of Briarwood, hosted a spectacular event filled with light, joy, and unity.

On Sunday, December 15, the Fresh Meadows and Jamaica Estates communities came together for an unforgettable family fun day at Hadar Bet Yaakov on Peck Avenue in honor of Chanukah. The event was filled with exciting activities that brought joy to hundreds of community children and families alike.