Community Corner

The Orthodox Union (OU), the nation’s oldest and largest umbrella organization for the North American Orthodox Jewish community, is launching a virtual Y’mei Ratzon program offering ideas and inspiration in preparation for the upcoming High Holidays. The program offers two tracks: a video series focusing on t’shuvah (repentance) and an audio series delving into the unique prayers during this time period.

Have you ever felt inspired to burst into an impromptu song after a particularly moving experience? Participants in Emet’s Men’s Summer Retreat did just that. No, it wasn’t a traditional tune but an original rap song. Imagine a rhythmic beat, and this preamble: “Guys, summer retreat was amazing. I love you Emet. From the bottom of my heart, I’m going to sing this rap for you...” The song continued: “I reunited with the men. After four months of Corona. I’m trying to come back, learn Torah. All day, any day, overnight. It’s in my mind… Emet Summer Retreat... I love it.”

For five long months, the coronavirus pandemic has plagued just about every facet of life worldwide. The American unemployment figure stands at over 51 million, a whopping 20 times the average for a comparable period, and our frum communities have not been spared. With limited youth summer programming and videoconferencing seemingly still on the table for the upcoming school year, many who have unfortunately lost their main financial pipeline are now seeking new pathways to support their often-large families. The Jobs Task Force was created by two dedicated brothers and Queens natives, Yitzy and Mordy Sobel, as a unique way to help our brethren weather the storm. The Queens area has close to 100 shuls – a profound amount of resources waiting to be tapped. It is time we stepped up to help our community and get jobs for our friends, neighbors, and the man or woman sitting next to us in shul.

 Proposed bill to give right of first refusal to small businesses atop Lefferts Blvd. bridge

 Assemblymember Daniel Rosenthal and Senator Leroy Comrie announced the introduction of new legislation to protect the character of the Lefferts Boulevard bridge amidst restoration.

MTA is thrilled to welcome the following new faculty members for the upcoming 2020-2021 school year, including all-star alumni:

“Hashem, how many are my tormentors! The great rise up against me. The great say of my soul, There is no deliverance for him from G-d, Selah. But You, Hashem, are a shield about me, my glory, and He Who raises up my head. (T’hilim 3:2-4)