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Ezra Academy’s yearlong mitzvah program is continuing, and just finished the next step in fostering spiritual growth among its students through the implementation of the Asher Yatzar Mitzvah Program. Asher Yatzar, the brachah recited to express gratitude for the intricate design of the human body and the seamless functioning of its various systems, is often overlooked. The program at Ezra Academy was designed to instill a sense of mindfulness and appreciation for the gift from Hashem of health and well-being.

Mr. Richard Altabe, HALB Lower School Principal, attended the OU mission to Washington this past week with Senators and Representatives to advocate for Israel and the Jewish people. He was part of a group of people from the Five Towns who met with our Representative, Congressman Anthony D’Esposito. Mr. Altabe asked the members of the OU to wear the number 96 to mark the number of days the hostages have been held in Gaza, as requested by Rachel, mother of Hersh Goldberg-Polin, who is still being held hostage. After Mr. Altabe’s suggestion, Rabbi Hauer presented Senators with their own 96 stickers, many of whom agreed to wear it.

Mrs. Wargon’s third grade boys at Yeshiva Tiferes Moshe just finished their unit on chemistry. The boys learned that all the atoms that Hashem created in our universe can be found in the Periodic Table of Elements. These elements can be combined in different ways to create all of the matter that exists.

Chodesh Sh’vat was ushered in at Yeshiva Tiferes Moshe’s Early Childhood program with a fun and educational program. The boys gathered in the dining room after discussing the name of our new chodesh and the special Yom Tov of Tu BiSh’vat. The boys brainstormed to think of the many things we get from trees: from delicious fruits to paper and fresh air. Thank You, Hashem, for all these wonderful items that are derived from trees!

What if I told you there was a way to support Israel by going shopping?

American Communities Helping Israel (ACHI) is a non-profit advocacy organization that packs a counterpunch to the BDS movement by hosting an online market featuring more than 250 Israeli vendors. They offer an array of products ranging from Judaica, jewelry, ceramics, art, fashion, and home decor to toys and games. Many vendors ship globally and within Israel, so you can even send food baskets to Israeli family and friends. Check out www.achi613.org/achi-market to see for yourself - and start shopping!

The Early Childhood Department at YTM wished Rabbi Chaim Schauder, Executive Director, a warm, happy birthday this past week. The boys signed decorative posters for the occasion!