Local

B’eH

When Jewish students are under attack on college campuses, when Israel is smeared in classrooms and boardrooms, and when no one else is willing to call out antisemitism for what it is, the Zionist Organization of America (ZOA) shows up.

The Four Sons in the Passover Haggadah are teachable movements. “Meet the person where they are at” and “Teach them according to their ways,” was part of Neva Goldstein-Hellman’s pre-Pesach shiur. Central Queens Jewish Community Circle sponsored the Zoom presentation.

In a joyous celebration of Torah leadership, bold vision, and the strength of community, the RIETS Evening of Tribute, held on March 25, was among the most successful in the Yeshiva’s history, drawing over 600 guests from around the world—including Torah scholars, alumni, community leaders, musmachim and students—and raising more than $3 million.

Weekly walks are resuming in Great Neck, every Sunday, to raise awareness about the Israeli hostages still held in Gaza. “Run for Their Lives” is a movement founded by a group of Israelis in the Bay Area in California, in collaboration with the “Hostage and Missing Families Forum (#BringThemHomeNow).” However, local events are independently led by dedicated community leaders in several neighborhoods - in Great Neck, thanks to the efforts of Michael Reznik and Irina Amir.

Can you imagine receiving a phone call from Israel at 2:30 a.m. from a major in the IDF asking for help? That’s what happened to Yakir Wachstock on October 11, 2023. An IDF major called him with an urgent request for army boots for the IDF.

Game-changing concepts, smart strategy and a shot at $2,000 brought seven student teams to the final round of the YU Innovation Challenge. Part “Shark Tank” part startup bootcamp, the annual competition drew a crowd of more than 100 to Yogoda Commons on the Beren Campus—where innovation, ambition and entrepreneurial spirit were on full display.