Colors: Blue Color

MTA’s summer tour continued, this time in Eretz Yisrael, at an amazing meet-up at NCSY Kollel. MTA talmidim always make up a significant contingent at the Kollel, and this summer is no exception. It was great to see everyone having his “Best. Summer. Ever.” MTA rebbeim Rabbi Tanchum Cohen, Rabbi Akiva Ackerman, and Rabbi Shai Kaminetsky are all rebbeim in kollel, as well, and enjoyed the reunion. Mrs. Friedman brought the swag bags and Marzipan rugelach, and enjoyed catching up with the many current talmidim, recent alumni who are working in kollel, as well as rebbeim in kollel who represent some of the best of MTA’s alumni.

Orot started this past week with a beautiful class given by Rebbetzin Leah Maksumov on the deeper meaning behind the Sh’moneh Esrei prayer. After the class, the Orot girls were treated to a trip to Jib Lanes for fun and games as a reward for completing their weekly davening challenge. Last week’s reward was delicious ice cream at Max & Mina’s! This coming week, the girls can’t wait to enjoy a pool party in a beautiful private venue!

Lester Kaufman, former Ohel executive director, continues sustaining Ohel’s mission of supporting individuals with disabilities

Lester Kaufman, a long-time Queens resident, recently dedicated an Ohel residence for individuals with developmental disabilities in Far Rockaway. Mr. Kaufman previously served as Ohel’s executive director for almost 30 years. Today, Lester and Susan Kaufman continue their commitment to this community and have joined with Ohel for a lasting legacy.

The Beth Gavriel Netz Minyan recently held a splendid siyum on the main floor of their Forest Hills shul. The venue was recreated into a magnificent hall, befitting the tremendous milestone accomplished by making a siyum on Masechet Shabbat. For 14 months, the mesaymim toiled over the sacred pages of the Talmud; the attendance at the event was testament that their hard work really paid off. The event was a tremendous kidush Hashem. From the artistic decor led by Liora Sebag to the uplifting music provided by DJ Avraham, and the powerful speeches delivered by the various Beth Gavriel rabbonim, the program was one to remember.

In this week’s parshah, R’ei, Moshe Rabbeinu shares a message that resonates deeply with those facing sickness or adversity. He reminds us that despite our challenges, we have the power to transform our hardships into opportunities for growth and blessings.