Queens Jewish Link
Connecting the Queens Jewish Community 
The Fall Semester Masmidim at Rambam Mesivta were recently recognized for their dedication to Torah learning at the school’s Annual January First Intergenerational Learn-A-Thon, where they were honored with plaques in appreciation of their commitment.
On Motza’ei Shabbos, January 17, the Yeshiva of Central Queens (YCQ) hosted a beautiful melaveh malkah in the Old City of Jerusalem. Alumni studying in yeshivah and those who have made aliyah joined together with families visiting for winter break for a truly special event.
Last week, kindergarten students at YCQ reached a special milestone by receiving their very own “starter siddurim.” The siddurim serve as a foundational introduction to tefillah readiness, equipping students with the skills needed as they transition toward using a formal siddur. These siddurim will follow the students into first grade, where they will use them until they receive their siddurim at the Chagigat HaSiddur.
At the t’filin workshop, we had the opportunity to have our t’filin checked to make sure they were still kosher and in good shape. Rabbi Kreiser, of Keshirat Tefillin, came and showed us the correct way to wear our t’filin, and he carefully inspected the boxes to see that they were in good condition and that the paint on them was still kosher. It was interesting to watch the sofer examine every small detail: the boxes, the straps, and even the way they sit on our arm and head.
The boys in Mrs. Borr’s first-grade class recently celebrated the completion of their first math workbook! What better way to celebrate during the cold winter months than with a fun, hot cocoa party! The boys enjoyed sipping their cocoa while Mrs. Borr read the funny story of “Sneezy the Snowman.”
MTA concluded the semester by bringing the entire yeshivah together for a powerful Leil Chazarah, filling the Beis Midrash with focused learning, energy, and a strong sense of achdus. Beginning with Maariv and continuing through hours of chazarah, the evening created a shared moment for students across all grades to learn side by side and reflect on a semester of growth.
