The Jwave Teens Division of Chazaq is upping their game with transforming the learning experience by introducing unique daily mentorship learning. Since the beginning of the new school year, teens have engaged in more open discussions, posed tough questions, and delved into topics that resonate with their experiences, all facilitated by Chazaq mentors and friends.

The evening of January 27 saw the untimely passing of former Queens city councilman Paul Vallone (D-19), who had currently been serving as New York City’s Veterans Services Deputy Commissioner. Vallone suffered a heart attack at his home last Saturday evening, and was rushed to a Flushing hospital. His death was felt by many city public officials -- all of whom uniformly admired the married father of three who effectively served on the City Council between 2014 to 2021. Vallone was 56.

Emet Outreach continued its popular couples workshops with an informative evening on “Building Intentional Relationships.”  Held at the Young Israel of Jamaica Estates, the event attracted 25 couples at all stages of marriage. Participants enjoyed a buffet dinner and connecting with friends. Rabbi Akiva Rutenberg, Emet’s Co-founder and Director, delivered the main lecture with warmth and humor. Among his tips, he offered practical advice for focusing less on technology to ensure more quality, intentional and meaningful interactions in marriage.

“It’s been over 100 days that my husband has been mostly absent, serving in his miluim (reserve) IDF unit. That’s a long time.  And while everyone else seems to be getting used to the new normal, it’s only getting harder on me and the kids.  The anticipation of his return, the stress when he leaves again, not knowing how much longer we will have to make do without him around.  Of course we are proud of him and wouldn’t have it any other way, but it’s hard.  For how much longer will we flinch every time there is a knock at the door?  How many times can we have the same friends do the extra carpool or send over dinner?” asks Chana from Kiryat Menachem.