Community Corner

Craving the delectable taste of Israeli fast food? Look no further! A new Glatt eatery brings the vibrant flavors of shawarma and falafel right to your taste buds. Talia’s Steakhouse of Manhattan’s West Side celebrated the grand opening of its sister fleishig restaurant, Shawarma Shabazi, an Israeli food haven, earlier this summer, at 668 Amsterdam Avenue. I was privileged to attend the event alongside Simon Sebag, Jewish liaison to NYC Public Advocate Jumaane Williams. The festivities drew the attention of several elected officials, the hierarchy of Mayor Eric’s Adams administration, and blessings from Rabbi Abe Friedman. 

The Silicon Valley-based delivery giant DoorDash granted the Masbia Soup Kitchen Network an additional $50,000 worth of deliveries to help feed the needy during the upcoming High Holiday season.

BAR AND BAS MITZVAHS 

Michael and Debbie Bermish on the Bar Mitzvah of a grandson, Nati, son of Dov and Aliza Porat of Eretz Yisrael 

A week in Poland and Prague was more than a summer trip for 41 Emet Outreach college students. It was an experience that left participants with gratitude for their Jewish heritage, an appreciation of their daily lives, and a determination to strengthen their connection to Hashem. The itinerary was organized to celebrate Jewish survival from the midst of destruction. Emmanuella Borukh explained, “I really think it helps you understand what being a Jew means and the connection that all Jews have to each other. It’s more than an experience; it’s really a journey.”

David HaMelech said: Va’ani kirvas Elokim li tov (As for me, being close to Hashem is what’s considered good). What King David (David HaMelech) desired was only one thing: to be close with Hashem.

The atmosphere was tense as the special meeting unfolded at the Nathan L.H. Bennett Pavilion at Hempstead Town Hall. This pivotal gathering sought to address the longstanding concerns surrounding the Capri Motor Inn on Hempstead Turnpike in West Hempstead. With key figures present, including council members, community leaders, and representatives, the event offered a platform for the West Hempstead community to engage in a dialogue about the fate of the establishment.