Colors: Blue Color

On Motza’ei Shabbos, October 24, the community gathered at the Young Israel of Queens Valley for an inspiring shiur given by renowned speaker, educator, and author Rabbi Menachem Nissel. Sponsored by Chazaq, JAspire, the Young Israel of Queens Valley, Eshel Avraham, and Milanas, the shiur opened with Rabbi Avraham Nissanian welcoming everyone and introducing Rabbi Nissel.

The ink was barely dry on Emet Outreach’s expanded lease in Jamaica Estates when the new space became an essential part of planning for the first JBoard Shabbaton of the fall semester. With registration climbing to include students from more than four campuses, Emet’s staff and student leaders were determined to accommodate the growing crowd. “We just signed the lease, and the space was unfinished,” recalled Sara Basiratmand Benyamin, Emet Program Director. “Rabbi Rutenberg suggested using the Emet Center’s new lower level, and that sounded impossible. I didn’t think we could get it ready in time, but by Friday morning, the area had been cleaned, and tables and chairs were delivered. We made it happen.”

New York City Comptroller Mark Levine’s clarification of his position on Israel Bonds has helped ease concerns among Jewish communal leaders following criticism of his decision not to resume the city’s purchases. His October 15 statement reaffirmed his support for Israel and explained how restrictions introduced under his predecessor, Brad Lander, have complicated efforts to restore the investments.