Community Corner

On Monday, December 6, the final day of the Chanukah, the Orthodox Jewish Chamber of Commerce followed its mission of building bridges via commerce by facilitating a unique signing that will have rippling effects worldwide.

The joy of Chanukah is brought to a new level by the work of Chabad and its network of menorah lightings. Queens has welcomed this tradition each year. Rabbi Mendy Hecht of Chabad of Forest Hills North lights the menorah at Yellowstone Municipal Park in Forest Hills. Ahead of his major event this upcoming Sunday, December 5, beginning at 3:15 with a live DJ, bike show, and gelt coin drop, the rabbi has been on hand to light the menorah each evening.

Chanukah is a time of celebration. But with every party comes the need for security and safety. Our community organizations understand the importance of protection and took a moment to send members of law enforcement a token of appreciation for always being available to keep our communities secure. Chaverim of Queens delivered Chanukah care packages of donuts to the 102^nd and 107^th police precincts, while Queens Borough Safety Patrol – Shmira visited Forest Hills’ 112^th precinct. Hatzolah of Queens and Great Neck invited members of the New York Police Department to their Chanukah celebration hosted at Ner Mordechai in Kew Gardens. 

Assemblyman David I. Weprin convened a gathering of religious and community leaders at noon Tuesday to denounce the suspected vandalism of a menorah in Hollis Hills. In attendance with Assemblyman Weprin were Senator John Liu, Assemblywoman Nily Rozic, City Council Member Barry Grodenchik, Rabbi Yerachmiel Zalmanov, Rabbi David Wise, Rabbi Gary Greene, and Rabbi Mayer Waxman.

Many parents with a disabled child worry about how their child will be cared for after they’re gone.

 On Tuesday evening, November 23, Hashevaynu held a pre-Chanukah party and toy drive for the adult membership of its shul at their center on 72nd Drive in Kew Gardens Hills. The program was designed to help make the chag special for children in need. Organized by Rabbi Yehuda and Rebbetzin Adina Zakutinsky, the evening combined celebration with passing on the smiles and joy to others. The program included the wonderful aroma of fresh latkes and doughnuts served amongst great music and budding friendships. The toys donated were all new and of brand name to make every child feel valued and important. Each gift will be distributed as part of Project Yedid, a division of Misaskim launched in 2004.