By Chana Canterman – Shlucha in Talbiya-Mamilla, Jerusalem

A dollar bill.

These days, it hardly seems to mean very much; just a small piece of green paper, of ever diminishing value.

In these days following Lag Baomer Shavuos, the timing seems right to finally share this personal story and honor the legend of Ahavas Yisroel and Ahavas Hatorah, Bubby Riva Junik, and יבדלח״ט, her family.

This is the story of a single dollar from the Lubavitcher Rebbe that to most of us has tremendous worth, but the dollar that Bubby Junik received from the Rebbe, continued to transcend even that. It became magical.

Let’s step back a moment.

In February 2025, while the hostage families were struggling through excruciatingly difficult times, our Chabad Talbiya-Mamilla Women’s Circle was holding weekly Challah bakes with hostage mothers.

A small group of these women made a request that we organize a respite trip to the Rebbe’s Ohel and the Chabad Women’s ‘Shluchos Convention’ in New York. We responded instinctively with a yes.
My dedicated junior shlucha and daughter Mussia, came on board immediately. Mission triumphed over exhaustion. Plans went full steam ahead.

Our New York team, led by Shlucha Chani Baram, Sara Veron and my dear sister Goldie Barnett, organized a seamless schedule to ensure that the mothers would be showered endlessly with uplifting moments and exquisite daily gifts of every kind.

The goal was to give them a week of tefillah, chizzuk, and respite from their reality. Interwoven into the carefully planned itinerary were times for prayer, spirit, and relaxation. The mothers became immersed in a week of powerful experiences. There were visits to the Ohel, to 770 and to the Rebbe’s room and library. There were high-quality art workshops, food demos, participation in a joyous Chassidic wedding, Broadway shows and spa time.

***

Alongside the emotional and spiritual purpose of the trip, several of the mothers hoped for an additional mission: to secure a meeting with Morgan Ortagus, former U.S. State Department spokesperson and an advisor to Steve Witkoff. They understood that reaching Steve himself was unlikely, but even a brief meeting with Morgan, someone connected to hostage advocacy and a mother herself, would be comforting and meaningful for them.

From the outset of the trip, calls were placed, messages sent, and contacts explored to try to reach Morgan, but nothing materialized.

Then, a critical connection was made on the third day of our week-long trip.

Chabad of Columbia University, headed by Rabbi Yehuda and Rebbetzin Drizin, held a heartwarming exchange between the mothers and the students. The students shared their challenges surrounding antisemitism on campus, while the mothers shared their heart-wrenching stories.

By Divine Providence, Rabbi Yehuda Drizin had connections to Rich Goldberg, senior advisor at the Foundation for Defense of Democracies and former member of the White House National Security Council. Rabbi Drizin reached out to him to pursue arranging a meeting. From that moment on, Rich became deeply involved, responsive, thoughtful, and genuinely invested in trying to make this meeting happen.

***
The week culminated with an unforgettable Shabbos in Crown Heights. Hosted at the Junik and Barnett homes, the mothers were enveloped in a blanket of warmth and care. The Friday night table radiated light and comfort, while a designated table for the missing hostages, set with their names for tefillah, anchored the experience with quiet intensity. Shabbos day continued with uplifting energy, singing, words of chizzuk, and delicious cuisine.

As Shabbos came to a close, a deeply emotional musical havdalah filled Shani Junik’s dining room with song and longing, flowing directly into the Ohel Nosson Melave Malka, which ignited a powerful sense of emunah. It was there that the mothers encountered a regal woman, just shy of ninety, who introduced herself simply as Riva. Only later did they realize that this was the famous Bubby Junik, Rabbi Berel Junik’s mother.

The music, delicious buffet, and speeches arranged reflected the immense effort invested in creating this event. When it was time to dance, however, no one expected the mothers to participate.
Yet, Bubby Junik understood something deeper: the healing power of simcha that breaks through barriers.

With infectious enthusiasm, she danced and danced, drawing the mothers into the circle one by one, with boundless energy. She showered them with genuine love, encouragement, and hope. No one else could have achieved this but the living legend, Bubby Junik. She had filled their weary bones with rich marrow, a surge of life-giving energy.

Later that night, Bubby Junik approached me. In her hand was a dollar that she had received from the Lubavitcher Rebbe many decades ago. She placed it into my hand and said simply, “I’m sharing the blessings I received from the Rebbe with you. Use it for bracha and hatzlacha in your shlichus with these special neshamos. Use it in whatever way will bring comfort to the hostage families.”

I was completely taken aback by her pure selflessness and thanked her profusely.

A Rebbe’s dollar carries a mission. It represents the power of a small act of goodness to create something far beyond itself.

Holding the dollar in my hand that night, I prayed that this dollar would become a conduit for igniting a spark, guiding the work that still lay ahead.

***
The very next morning, that spark began to light up.

Messages from Rich Goldberg started coming in, updates, possibilities, shifting logistics. He was actively working behind the scenes, advocating, coordinating, and trying to push the meeting with Morgan forward, despite many obstacles.

“Hi Chanie,” he wrote. “I flagged the email for Morgan. She’ll let me know whether this visit can take place.”

Hope flickered.

Sunday, day 6, we all attended the long-awaited gala banquet. By then, the group of mothers on the trip had grown to sixteen mothers. In the midst of the carefully planned program, one mother turned to me with yet another plea:

“I would like for us moms to get up on that stage and “say and pray” the names of our sons so that no one forgets where they are, where they need to be, and how they’ll get there. The cries of 5,000 Chabad women and friends will surely break through the heavens.”

It was not a simple request. The program had been set in stone for months and at first I was unsuccessful. But the mothers persisted, and I soon found myself advocating and pleading alongside them.

And then, it happened. Thousands of women stood together as the mothers held up their children’s posters. Tears flowed freely. A powerful tefillah filled the room. It became an unforgettable Ani Maamin chorus.

As the banquet came to a close, my “respite trip” shlichut would inevitably come to an end as well. Or so I thought… But I was acutely reminded that there was still no update from Rich.
***
Late Sunday night, most of the group booked their tickets back to Israel for early the next morning, as no meeting seemed imminent. Only two remained behind, unwilling to give up on the possibility of a meeting with Morgan.

At 4:00AM, exhaustion set in, and we crashed to sleep.

At 5:48AM, the flash of my phone jarred me awake. I saw the long-awaited response from Morgan.

“Hi, I can meet at around 12:00PM today.” That meant we had six hours from this moment.

Within minutes, Rich was guiding us, sending instructions, outlining transportation options (train? flight? car?), helping us navigate the impossible timeline.

One of the remaining two moms got cold feet and decided to drop out of this new mission to avoid disappointment. This meant that Galit Kalfon and her daughter-in-law, Rotem, were the only remaining hostage family members prepared to brave the trip in cold, icy weather, and maximize the “hishtadlus” for her son and all the remaining hostages.

“We are down to one mom and her daughter-in-law,” I messaged Rich, “Would you still be willing to expend all that energy for the meeting?”
“If this meeting brings even a measure of comfort to this mother, then it is absolutely worth it,” he responded. The ripple effect of Bubby Junik’s kindness was in motion.

Rabbis Berel Junik and Yossi Katz promptly ordered a car for us and took care of the cost without batting an eyelid. We immediately set out for DC.
The journey was anything but straightforward.

At multiple points, Rich cautioned that the chances of success were slim. Logistical barriers mounted. Timing seemed impossible. At one point, we received another call from Rich. He advised that it might be best to turn back.

For a long moment, silence pervaded the van.

For a split second, I flinched. Every person and every place has its unique mission and time. This, was the time for Bubby Junik’s dollar. The memory of her words came rushing back: “Use this dollar in whichever way would help the hostage families.”

Holding that small piece of paper, colossal in value, I felt a quiet determination. Somehow, it carried the weight of possibility and positivity. Now was our time.

I told Rich that Galit and Rotem did not need a long meeting. Even five minutes would be enough. They only wanted to thank Morgan and present her with something deeply meaningful, a dollar from the Rebbe.

After a few brief moments that felt like decades, Rich came back with incredible news. Morgan would, in fact, be able to meet them and was much looking forward to receiving a holy dollar from the Lubavitcher Rebbe, especially since she sent her daughter to the Chabad Pre-School in her home town.

With renewed energy, we pressed on. Hours later, after a tense and grueling drive, the White House came into view. Finally.

“Hi Rich, we’re here, but not sure where to go.”

No answer. I called again. No response. I messaged again. Still, no response. At last, I saw my phone light up. It was Rich. Something was very wrong.

“Hi, friends, someone has torpedoed my efforts, along with the meeting. It seems he wasn’t happy about the arrangement and prefers that any meetings go through a central channel. I’m so sorry.”
Galit and Rotem turned ashen. I, too, was in disbelief.

I turned to the women, and I said, “You know more than I do what we need to do right now.”

Out came the Sifrei Tehillim. We sat quietly in the van, driver included, reciting the Tehillim corresponding to the ages of the hostages, praying that somehow the impossible might be made possible. With intention and intensity, we read the Psukim word for word. As we reached the last line of Segev Kalfon’s Perek, (28) “Hoshiah Et Amecha.”, my phone almost exploded. Rich again.
“G-d is with you all today and always. I don’t know how or why, but broken things got fixed. Look out of your window. Morgan has your license number and is waiting for you; she’s wearing a red coat. Do you see her?”

Indeed, waiting regally in a red coat, was Deputy Envoy, Morgan Ortagus, and with her came a double fudge surprise. Standing there was Steve Witkoff, together with his chief of staff, Juan Pablo Varela. What went on in that van before Galit, Rotem, and I tumbled out, was a combined cacophony of chaos, crying, and laughter.

After hearing about the emotional and physical rollercoaster that had taken place that day, Steve immediately ordered three hotel rooms (for three overtired travelers) at the Waldorf Astoria, welcomed us into a waiting car, and took us to dinner.

Morgan became my ally as I sat in a place very foreign to me and we quietly conversed back and forth about dishes for the guests to order that would reflect the Kosher standards of Am Yisrael. A giant bronzino fish and vegetables appeared on the table.

It still wasn’t easy for me to explain to Steve Witkoff why I limited myself to bottled water drunk from a paper cup!

The mothers began to speak.
Morgan, Steve, and Juan listened intently as the mother and daughter in- law shared their stories, riddled with pain, courage, and unshakable hope. Steve and his staff shed real, salty tears for the agony and anguish of the suffering families. The empathy was palpable.

And then, the moment of the dollar arrived.

Suddenly, another hurdle emerged. There was only one dollar, yet sitting across from me was the very person tasked with helping bring the hostages home. I turned to Morgan.
“Morgan,” I asked quietly.

“May I present you now with your precious Rebbe Dollar?”

Her response was immediate.

“Certainly not! Steve is here. He is the one making the main decisions right now. He needs the blessings more than I.”

It was a striking moment of unique selflessness, with another bolt of the same giving spirit that had begun with Bubby Junik.

With trembling hands, I presented the priceless dollar to Steve Witkoff (So focused on this prime moment, I missed photographing Steve with Bubby’s dollar, and hope to receive one from the
staff in the near future). The Junik family sent a message in Bubby Junik’s name and requested it be read aloud.

I began:

“There are presents of gratitude that could be bought and crafted by an artist. I wish to present to you today a nuclear power of blessings that cannot be bought for any money in the world nor crafted by any artist. This is a holy dollar that was hand-given by the Lubavitcher Rebbe, Rabbi Menachem Mendel Schneersohn. It has energy and blessings. Sometimes they remain dormant until the need arises. Only then do those blessings of success develop and blossom into reality in the most miraculous ways.

This dollar was received by our dear mother, Riva, who was three years old during the famous Leningrad blockade, when the entire city was held hostage for almost three years. She has chosen to gift this dollar to you for the sole purpose of hastening the release of those hostages still held in captivity.

With divine providence, you are the “shliach”, the emissary chosen by President Trump to help release all hostages now. Please take this dollar with you on all important life-saving missions. The Rebbe will be there with you, holding your hand to success and victory! “!!!עם ישראל חי

There was an absolute stillness that followed. Steve was very visibly moved by this unexpected gift of chizzuk. He expressed profuse gratitude and asked about the history of the “Rebbe’s Dollars.”

Steve began reminiscing about his youth and involvement in Jewish programs in his childhood, and even sang one of his favorite Jewish songs from his youth.

Yet I was still struggling, with the need to present the Rebbe dollar I’d committed to Morgan. Spontaneously, I invited her to be guest of honor at a Chabad Talbiya-Mamilla Challah bake event the next time she would be in Israel with worry-free time on her hands.

“There, a Rebbe Dollar will finally be gifted to you, too.”

Morgan was more than pleased at this commitment.

I dropped Galit and Rotem off at the Waldorf Astoria and decided to make my way back to waiting family members in New York.

Bubby Junik’s small dollar had infinitely surpassed its mission. Simple in appearance, yet full of merit, it opened doors that only this Rebbe dollar was powerful enough to unlock. It carried many mothers to a moment of hope, emunah, and connection that felt nothing short of miraculous. It may well have also accelerated the release of the last ‘ Shvuyim’.

***
Eight months later, when finally all the hostages were returned home, a circle closed. With Hashem’s help, many of the hostage mothers could now be called mothers in healing. And those mothers who were tragically grieving would be able to have some sense of closure.

In early February 2026, a group of healing mothers joined me once again on a trip to New York to say thank you prayers at the Rebbe’s Ohel and to experience a week of respite and joy. On the Motzei Shabbos program, a celebratory Maleve Malka hosted by the Ohel Nosson congregation was yet again on the schedule, and the guest of honor this time was to be Bubby Junik.

Alas, Hashem decided otherwise. Ten days before the trip, Bubby Junik suffered a heart attack, and on the very Motzei Shabbos of the Melave Malka, I slipped away to attend the Levaya of this Mitzva fairy whose lofty soul had departed from us. Her passing came at a poignant and painful time.

Despite not physically being with us at the Melave Malka, Bubby Junik’s presence filled the hall. In her merit, families crushed by unimaginable pain were lifted into moments of connection, comfort, and hope, and through the selfless sharing of her Rebbe’s Dollar and blessings, these mothers found a closeness to HaShem that no distance, no darkness, and no loss could ever diminish. As the light of Rashbi and Rabbi Akiva shines, we say “Thank you, Bubby Junik. Thank you, Rebbe. Thank you, Hashem.” May we merit the imminent Geula and reunion with all of Am Yisrael’s priceless legends.

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****

Chabad of Talbiya-Mamilla thanks the following people for their selfless kindness that they showed to the mothers on their Kinus-respite trip to New York.
Chanie Baram
Sara Veron
Rabbi Berel and Shani Junik
Rabbi Mendy and Goldie Barnett
Mussie Mangel
Mrs Shaindy Jacobson
Girls from Frisch High School
Top Fashion
Chanie Apfelbaum
Michoel Muchnik @
Muchnik Art
Rabbi Yossi Katz
Leonid from World Spa
Ohel Nosson Community
Mrs. Devorah Halberstam
JLI Institute
Esti Pruss
Rivky Lang
Bass and Bourbon
Israel Chessed Center
Perl Family
Mrs Chani Garelik
Bronia Shaffer
Shlucha Reizel Wolf
Blumie Gurevitz

For decades, mental health treatment and religious life have run on parallel tracks; respectful of each other, perhaps, but rarely in conversation. A therapist might gently encourage davening; a rav might recommend a good therapist. But the idea that Torah, mitzvos, chassidus, and a relationship with Hashem could themselves be clinical tools? That was largely left out of the conversation.

That’s about to change.

On Sunday, May 31, 2026, the Wellness Institute, a division of The Rohr Jewish Learning Institute (JLI), will host Jewish Spirituality in Clinical Practice, a six-hour virtual conference putting the science, the chassidus, and the practical clinical wisdom in one Zoom room.

“Jewish clinicians intuitively sense that there is a connection between their yiddishkeit and their evidence-based clinical practice, but they are unsure about how to integrate these worlds professionally,” says Rabbi Zalman Abraham, director of The Wellness Institute. “Our goal with this conference is to, at the very least, demonstrate that it is possible. Ideally, we’re looking to create a movement.”

What the Research Says

The numbers coming out of mainstream academic research are staggering. People at high risk for depression who lead a religious life are 90% less likely to actually become depressed. After trauma, religious individuals are 76% less likely to develop major depression. Weekly shul attendance is linked to an 84% drop in suicide risk and a 50–70% reduction in “deaths of despair” from addiction, overdose, and suicide. Patients with strong internal religious motivation recover from depression up to twice as fast, and brain imaging shows that a spiritual life builds thicker, more depression-resilient cerebral cortices.

In short, science is catching up to what chassidim have always known. And the demand is there. Over 55% of psychotherapy patients wish their treatment included their spiritual lives. However, most clinicians were never trained to address it.

Closing the Gap

The program features two pioneers of the field as keynote speakers: Dr. Kenneth Pargament of Bowling Green University, widely considered the father of the psychology of religion, and Dr. Lisa Miller of Columbia University, the neuroscientist whose work proved that spirituality literally changes the brain.

“We can’t understand people fully or help them through the darkest times if we ignore the spiritual dimension of these crises,” Pargament has said.

They’re joined by some of the most respected voices in Jewish psychology today, including Rabbi Yakov Danishefsky, LCSW, author of Attached: Connecting to Our Creator; Dr. Yehiel Harari of Tel Aviv University; Dr. David Rosmarin, whose research has reshaped clinical work with the frum population; and a roster of presenters including Drs. Batya Yaniger, Nachi Felt, Aryeh Cherniak, Aryeh Lazar, and Rotem Regev, alongside therapists Levi Weinstein, Moshe Fordsham, and Joey Rosenfeld.

Sessions move from the science of spirituality into practical, sourced applications of Chassidus, Mussar, and specific mitzvos with documented mental health benefits; closing with a Q&A on bringing these tools into Monday morning’s caseload.

The conference is hosted in partnership with Nefesh International, Network of Jewish Human Service Agencies, OK Clarity, Amudim, MASK, and others. It’s built for both Jewish and non-Jewish clinicians, with six CE credits available.

The Details

Sunday, May 31, 2026 11:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. ET, Live on Zoom
Cost: $49 | $99 with CE credits | Scholarships available upon request
Register: wellnessinstitute.org/spiritualitysummit

Hours after being discharged from hospital following the Bondi Beach terror attack that took the lives of fifteen Jews, among them his beloved friend and Rabbi Rabbi Eli Schlanger, Leibel Lazaroff stood on the stage of the Sydney Opera House Memorial, played piano and sang.

That moment says everything about who he is and what he brings to every room he walks into.

Since then, Leibel has taken his message to communities across North America, Chabad Houses, university campuses, gala dinners, teen Shabbatons, and young professional events. Everywhere he goes, people leave different than when they arrived.

“The response to darkness is not fear. It is more light, more Jewish pride, and more Jewish unity.”

Leibel has appeared at the CTeen International Shabbaton, Chabad Young Professionals in Austin, Illinois State University, the COCI Pegisha in California, the Impact Forum Foundation, the LEC dinner in Miami, a Lag B’Omer Kumzitz in Houston, and many other places. He sat down with Governor Greg Abbott of Texas to speak about antisemitism and Jewish identity on a national level.

The response has been extraordinary.

”We had the privilege of hosting Leibel Lazaroff at our Mega Shabbat at ISU, and the impact he had on our students was incredible. From beginning to end, the audience was completely engaged by his riveting, inspiring, and deeply empowering story. His message truly resonated with everyone in the room, and we would highly recommend him to any community or organization looking for a powerful and meaningful speaker.”
Rabbi Telsner, Chabad at ISU

“One of the most uplifting speakers I have ever heard. He has the unique ability to address difficult topics like antisemitism and personal tragedy with warmth, hope, and joy leaving people strengthened rather than discouraged. The most powerful part was seeing students immediately inspired to put on tefillin.”
Rabbi Zev Johnson, Chabad of UT Austin

“His story is powerful, but the way he told it is what made the evening so special. Real, emotional, honest, and strong. People left feeling proud, connected, and deeply grateful. The feedback from our community was beautiful ‘amazing,’ ‘moving,’ ‘uplifting.'”
Rabbi Chaim Lazaroff, Chabad Uptown Houston

Leibel is now booking select dates for communities across the country.

He is available for:
Gala Dinners · Shabbat Programs · Campus Events · Teen Shabbatons · Young Professional Nights · Community Gatherings

To bring Leibel Lazaroff to your community:
[email protected]
754-837-5709

Availability is limited. Reach out today.

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From life-saving calls to life-changing connections, the Jewish Children’s Museum recently turned New York City history into a hands-on lesson in unity, resilience, and friendship.

The Jewish Children’s Museum welcomed officers from the NYPD Community Affairs Bureau for an unforgettable day filled with creativity, learning, and meaningful connection for local Public School students JHS 185 Edward Bleeker.

The Deputy Commissioner of Information and Technology, Yisroel Hecht, introduced the students to the impact of telephone wires that transmitted information through 911 and how they operated. It was fascinating for the students to watch the Commissioner show them the once-used telephone and how lives were saved through the wiring system; the wires that once ran throughout New York City’s emergency communication systems, helping connect life-saving calls and protecting people and communities.

As technology evolved and these systems were upgraded, the old “hero wires” found a powerful new purpose.

Instead of being discarded, these NYPD wires were transformed into colorful “Better Together” friendship bracelets at the Museum. With beads, creativity, and excitement, the children created bracelets symbolizing unity, friendship, and the importance of staying connected to one another and the community around them.

The program continued with an inspiring presentation by Mrs. Devorah Halberstam, founder of the Jewish Children’s Museum, who shared the story of her son Ari Halberstam and the vision that inspired her to build the museum. Through her heartfelt words, students learned about resilience, understanding, and the importance of creating spaces where children of all backgrounds can come together in friendship and respect.

Following the presentation, the students enjoyed a guided tour through the museum’s interactive exhibits, exploring the many educational experiences that grew from Mrs. Halberstam’s mission and dedication.

The day reflected the very heart of the Jewish Children’s Museum’s mission: to provide exhibitions and programs for all children in an educational and entertaining format. Through contemporary technology and hands-on learning, visitors experience Jewish history, values, and traditions in a way that inspires curiosity, understanding, and connection.

Serving children and families of all ages and backgrounds, the Museum has become a nationally and internationally recognized model for interactive Jewish education. More importantly, it remains a welcoming place where children of all faiths and cultures can gain a positive perspective and appreciation of Jewish heritage while fostering mutual respect and understanding.

From life-saving wires to friendship bracelets, and from powerful stories to joyful exploration, the visit was a beautiful reminder that when communities come together, they can transform history into hope and create connections that last far beyond a single day.

Not in history books.
Not 80 years ago.
Right NOW!

Two Yidden from Eretz Yisrael are trapped in brutal prison conditions in Poland. Separated from their families, broken emotionally, and desperate for help.

One can finally get out on bail.
But only if we raise $55,000 immediately.

Without it, he may remain in prison for years awaiting trial.

The second Yid is facing years behind bars as well. His wife in Eretz Yisrael is hospitalized and struggling psychologically while he sits alone in a foreign prison. A qualified lawyer can help reduce his sentence, but the legal fees are enormous.

For months, Rabbi Sholom Ber Stambler, the Rebbe’s Shliach in Warsaw for over 21 years, has personally visited them, brought them kosher food, supported them, and fought for them.

Now he’s asking Klal Yisrael to step in.

The Rambam calls Pidyon Shvuyim the greatest mitzvah.

How can we stand by while fellow Yidden sit imprisoned, alone, and forgotten?

Help bring a Yid home.
Help save a family.
Help fulfill one of the greatest mitzvos in the Torah.

DONATE HERE TODAY

Dating can feel overwhelming—for both singles and their parents. In today’s fast-paced world, many parents want to support their children through the dating journey, yet often wonder how to guide them with sensitivity, wisdom, and confidence.

The Shidduch House is proud to host an inspiring evening with Hindel Swerdlov, a certified life coach with over 20 years of experience specializing in dating, relationships, and personal growth.

This meaningful event will offer practical tools and insight to help parents empower themselves and their children throughout the dating process.

Attendees will explore the emotional, personal, and spiritual aspects of dating while learning how to foster healthy communication, confidence, clarity, and purpose. Whether your child is just beginning to date or has been navigating the process for years, this evening promises guidance, encouragement, and meaningful takeaways for every stage of the journey.

The evening will conclude with an open Q&A session, giving attendees the opportunity to ask questions and gain deeper insight in a warm and supportive setting.

To register:
https://form.jotform.com/261306346707052

“our favorite place in the world is demolished”

Unfortunately a missile hit Beit Aleh – a rehab home for hundreds of children with severe disabilities, this is the only place that provides care and love for them.

Over 80% of the goal is raised already,

Help us continue to care for the children of Aleh!>

https://shutaf.im/ale/354457?lang=en&cur=USD

This Lag B’Omer, the Oholei Yosef Yitzchok Lubavitch community came together for a beautiful and uplifting Lag B’Omer kumzitz, filled with warmth, chayus, simcha, and a true feeling of unity.

The evening began with a beautiful hadloka and bonfire, gathering children, parents, and teachers around the light and warmth of Lag B’Omer. The atmosphere was joyful and wholesome, with the glow of the fire reflecting the inner light of the day – the light of Rabbi Shimon bar Yochai, the light of Torah, and the light of Chassidishe chinuch.

A special highlight of the event was the involvement of the OYYL elementary students, who were a vital part of the planning, setup, and execution of the kumzitz. With excitement and responsibility, they helped prepare the event and bring it to life, showing leadership, teamwork, and pride in their cheder community.

Families enjoyed a delicious BBQ, including hot dogs, burgers, and refreshments, followed by delicious ice cream for everyone. The children participated in a lively rally filled with fun and prizes, excitement and enthusiasm. They said the 12 Pesukim with tremendous chayus, sang niggunim together, and joined in the spirit of the day with genuine joy and pride.

What stood out most was the amazing sense of community felt throughout the evening. Children spent quality time with their parents and teachers, families connected with one another, and the cheder atmosphere of warmth, care, and Chassidishe energy was truly alive.

Shluchim involved in hospital and medical-related shlichus are on the front lines of some of the most sensitive moments in Jewish life. The upcoming Chabad on Call Kinus will bring together shluchim who work in this growing field, as well as those looking to expand their shlichus into hospital and medical outreach, to learn from one another and strengthen their impact.

For the second consecutive year, the Kinus will be held on location, this time hosted by Aishel House, at the Texas Medical Center in Houston, led by Rabbi Lazer and Rochel Lazaroff, following last year’s gathering in Florida in partnership with Healing Hearts, which drew approximately 50 participants involved in hospital shlichus and chaplaincy work.

“The shluchim doing this work carry tremendous responsibility. A family in crisis needs someone who can hold their hand while also answering difficult halachic questions,” said Rabbi Mendy Kotlarsky, Executive Director of Merkos 302. “The Kinus is where these shluchim get to feel supported themselves, exchanging ideas and drawing inspiration from peers and experts in the field,

Sessions will focus on halacha, building relationships with medical staff, hospice and end-of-life care, community engagement, and balancing the role of serving as both shliach and chaplain. Whether a shliach has years of hospital experience or is just beginning to explore this area, the program is designed to offer practical value.

One of the featured sessions, titled “When Questions Can’t Wait,” will be led by Rabbi Yosef Shusterman, a renowned posek and shliach. The halacha intensive will explore real hospital scenarios involving Shabbos, ICU situations, and urgent medical decisions, offering practical clarity through cases faced in medical settings.

Participants will also have the opportunity to experience the Aishel House model firsthand, including its hospitality suites, volunteer engagement, and patient support infrastructure.

“Last year’s Kinus brought tremendous energy to this growing field of shlichus,” said Mrs. Chani Goldberg, Director of Chabad on Call at Merkos 302. “Shluchim left with practical tools, new connections, and a clearer sense of how to serve patients, families, and medical communities.”

“The networking last year was the most valuable part for me,” said Rabbi Mendy Begun of LA Jewish Care and The Wisdom Circle. “Being together with others involved in this unique and sensitive work was energizing. I came away with practical ideas from other shluchim, small things I was able to adapt in my own hospital work. I’m looking forward to coming back this year.”

The Kinus will take place June 8–9, 2026, in Houston, Texas. Registration and additional information are available at chabadoncall.com/kinus.

The Crown Heights Jewish Community Council (CHJCC) is proud to announce the launch of a new Federal Security Grant Assistance Department designed to help Crown Heights shuls, schools, nonprofits, and community organizations access available federal security funding opportunities.

Recognizing the growing security needs facing religious and community institutions, CHJCC created this department to help organizations navigate the often complex federal grant application process and access professional support from start to finish.

To support this effort, CHJCC is partnering with Kovac Non-Profit Consulting, LLC, a firm with extensive experience in nonprofit operations, government funding environments, compliance, and organizational support across all 50 states.

Under this partnership, applications will be professionally prepared and submitted through Kovac Non-Profit Consulting in coordination with CHJCC. Assistance may include eligibility review, grant preparation, compliance guidance, and submission support.

While the department is being launched to support institutions within the Crown Heights community and surrounding neighborhoods, because these are federal programs, eligible organizations throughout the United States may also qualify to apply.

“CHJCC was founded to serve and strengthen our local community, and this department is first and foremost an investment in the safety and future of our Crown Heights institutions,” said Shmuly Rosenstein, acting chairman of CHJCC. “At the same time, because these are federal opportunities, we are proud to also be able to assist eligible organizations across the country that may benefit from this important support.”

Organizations interested in learning more are encouraged to contact [email protected]

Raizel Blesofsky (née Laber), A”H, was niftar on Friday night, 7 Sivan. She was 23 years old, married less than a year, and in the ninth month of her first pregnancy when an aneurysm took her without warning.

She never held him.

Her baby boy survived and is in the NICU. Please daven for Tinok HaKohen ben Raizel.

Raizel was the daughter of Rabbi Avraham and Mrs. Nechama Dina Laber, shluchim to Southern Rensselaer County, NY. She leaves behind her young husband, R’ Yisroel Blesofsky; her parents; her identical twin sister; and ten siblings.

She had a way of taking care of people. She fed them, she made room for them, she gave from a kind and open heart. Those who knew her said it simply: “Raizel genuinely saw the good in everyone, and always made people feel cared for and accepted. She had a true simcha that people could feel just by being around her.”

The needs are immediate, and they are long. NICU bills. A young husband starting over. Grieving parents, a twin, and ten siblings holding each other through a loss no one should carry alone.

Every dollar goes directly to the family. The kind of chesed Raizel herself would have given without hesitation.

Please give. Please share. Please daven.
→ charidy.com/forRaizel

Donations are administered by a family-appointed committee on behalf of Raizel’s parents, siblings, husband, and baby:

Mrs. Nechama Tauber (Raizel’s aunt)
Rabbi Mendel Zarchi (Yisroel’s uncle)
Rabbi Avraham Berkowitz
Rabbi Chanoch Kaplan (Yisroel’s uncle)
Azriel Wasserman (Raizel’s uncle)
Shimon Laber (Raizel’s uncle)

Shiva is being held at 5 Upper Mannix Rd, East Greenbush, NY 12061. Shachris 10:00 AM. Visiting hours 10:00 AM to 1:00 PM and 5:00 PM to 9:00 PM.

May her neshama have an aliyah. May we share only besuros tovos.

Brooklyn Heights is preparing for an unforgettable evening of celebration, inspiration, and music as Congregation B’nai Avraham and Chabad of Brooklyn Heights welcome not just one, but two internationally acclaimed performers: Shulem Lemmer and Ishay Ribo.

The gala, hosted by Chabad of Brooklyn Heights and Congregation B’nai Avraham, under the leadership of Rabbi Aaron Raskin and President Elisha Goldberg, will take place on Wednesday, May 27, at 6:30 PM at Bison and Bourbon in Brooklyn. With an open bar, a gourmet dinner, and two breathtaking performances, it’s an evening you don’t want to miss.

Tickets are $360 each.

This year marks the 37th annual gala dinner fundraiser—37 years of Chabad of Brooklyn Heights and B’nai Avraham serving the downtown Brooklyn community. The number 37, or “Lamed Zayin” in Hebrew, reminds us of the blessing: “Shehecheyanu, v’kiy’manu, v’higiyanu la’zman hazeh”—thanking God for bringing us to this momentous occasion.

Reserve your seat and be part of this unforgettable celebration: https://www.charidy.com/bnaiavraham

Following the overwhelming response to the new Mesivta of Lubavitcher Yeshiva, a second Shiur Alef class has been opened.

This will enable the Yeshiva to accommodate the growing demand, without compromising on its vision of maintaining a strong learning environment as well as personal attention to each and every talmid.

Lubavitcher Yeshiva is pleased to announce Rabbi Shmuly Matusof as the second Maggid Shiur Nigleh for the new Mesivta at the Ocean Parkway campus.

Rabbi Matusof is known for his warmth, dedication, and connection to the Bochurim. With his vast knowledge and depth in learning, and with his ability to bring a Sugya to life, Rabbi Matusof will further strengthen the Yeshiva’s commitment to a high standard of Limud HaTorah.

The two Shiur Alef classes will include Bochurim from Crown Heights together with Bochurim from out of town, creating a serious and vibrant Mesivta atmosphere within the framework of Tomchei Temimim, as envisioned by the Rabbeim.

Living as a proud Jew over these past few years has not been easy. Many of us find ourselves asking the same questions: What would the Rebbe say? What can I do? How can I help?

We are all part of the family of Am Yisrael, and at times, the pain and uncertainty can leave us feeling helpless. In moments of challenge and crisis, the Rebbe urged Jews to strengthen themselves and the world around them through Torah and Mitzvos.

We at Mayanot recently launched a Charidy campaign unlike any other: not to raise money, but to raise hours of Torah learning. The Torah Challenge, which began on Shavuot and will run through Gimmel Tamuz, the Rebbe’s Yahrtzeit, was created to empower every Jew to take part in the protection, healing, and spiritual strengthening of the Jewish people. Torah is our lifeblood. It is our connection to Hashem and to one another. In true Charidy fashion, every hour pledged will be matched by students learning at Mayanot in Jerusalem. Pledge the number of hours that you will learn from now until Gimmel Tammuz.

The campaign is dedicated l’iluy nishmas four kedoshim, Yinon Fleishman, Moshi Katz, Yaakov Levitan, and Moshe Noll. It is difficult to comprehend the devastating loss of so many holy souls – fathers, mothers, brothers, sisters, sons, and daughters – and the enormous circles of pain their absence leaves behind. Sometimes, the only way to begin to understand such loss is through looking at the life of a single individual and recognizing the countless lives they touched. Visitors to the campaign page at MayanotTorahChallenge.org can learn more about these remarkable heroes and their legacy.

Rabbi Kasriel Shemtov, Executive Director at Mayanot, explained: “The unity of our alumni, friends and all of Am Yisrael can come through the unifying powers of Torah learning. There is no better way to prepare for Gimmel Tammuz than by pledging hours of Torah study through this Torah Challenge Campaign.”

Rabbi Shlomo Gestetner, Dean of Mayanot, emphasized the broader significance of the initiative: “This campaign is not about one person or one community. Jews from around the world are coming together to dedicate their learning to those who gave everything. That unity itself is a Kiddush Hashem.”

We are living through historic times – perhaps even of biblical proportions. These are not times to stand on the sidelines and hope someone will do something. This is our moment to step forward on behalf of Am Yisrael.

As we speak, Israel is being attacked by our enemies, soldiers are still fighting on the front lines, citizens are being called up to multiple rounds of reserve duty, and YOUR Torah is the armor that protects them.

Every hour counts. Every word matters.

Sign up now at: MayanotTorahChallenge.org

There is no place more personal than a home, and no tribute more eternal than a Sefer Torah.

To honor the 123rd birthday of Rebbetzin Chaya Mushka Schneerson, Machne Israel—Lubavitch commissioned the writing of a special Sefer Torah destined for a singular location: the home of the Rebbe and Rebbetzin.

The Torah will be housed and fittingly complement the home the Rebbetzin created for the Rebbe and herself at 1304 President Street.

This is an opportunity for the global community to unite in a mitzvah that touches the heart of our leadership. Whether it is a single letter for a child or a full portion for a family, every sponsorship is an act of connection. Your participation directly fuels Keren Hachomesh, providing vital resources for Jewish women and girls in the spirit of the Rebbetzin’s own quiet, impactful leadership.

The Torah is set to be completed with a festive siyum on 29 Sivan – June 14, details to follow.

Machne Israel is inviting everyone to join in this special Siyum Sefer Torah by purchasing a letter, word, verse, chapter, parsha, or Chumash in this historic Torah.
Funds raised from this unique project are earmarked in support of Keren Hachomesh.

To participate in this historic Sefer Torah, please visit: Torah1304.com

Following an overwhelmingly successful campaign with entries pouring in from around the world, KSCVK has officially announced the winners of its highly anticipated “Knot Alone” raffle.

The raffle, which benefited KSCVK’s ongoing efforts to support chossonim and kallos, generated extraordinary excitement throughout Crown Heights and beyond, with thousands participating for the chance to win an incredible lineup of prizes while supporting a most meaningful cause.

Organizers expressed heartfelt appreciation to everyone who purchased tickets, shared the campaign, and helped spread awareness over the past several weeks.

This year’s winners are:

* $30,000 Wedding Package — Brochie Reinitz
* $10,000 Cash — Benzion & Musia Stock
* A Year of Tuition Paid — N.M.
* ⁠Luxury Trip to Israel — Rabbi David & Nancy Nesenoff
* Zlata Wig — C. G.
* Yaffie Begun Wig — Rikel H
* ⁠Rashi and Rabbeinu Tam Tefillin — Esther Blecher
* ⁠M4 MacBook Pro & AirPods Max — Shaina B.
* $2,200 Kirsh Jewelers Package — G. A.
* ⁠$2,500 Gift Card at Everythingbit the Baby — E. M. S
* ⁠Megillah — Yehuda Rosenberg
* $1,800 Tzfasman Jewelers Package — Uli & DL Baron
* ⁠$1,800 Visa Gift Card — Rivki Berg
* $1,000 Gift Card to Kosher Town — C.W.
* Bonus Prize: Custom Primo Kapota — S. R.

“The response was truly unbelievable,” Mrs. Devorah Benjamin shared. “Seeing so many people from all over come together in support of KSCVK was incredibly moving.”

KSCVK extended special thanks to all sponsors, donors, volunteers, and participants who helped make this year’s raffle such a tremendous success.

Donations can still be made at kscvk.org.

The Kindness Hub’s first large-scale community initiative, The Box of Kindness, brought dozens of volunteers together to prepare and deliver homemade Shabbos meals to single-parent families across Crown Heights.

Over the course of the project, 37 volunteers ranging in age from 15 to 68 dedicated more than 120 volunteer hours to preparing a four-course gourmet Shabbos dinner for 14 families – serving an estimated 55 adults, teens, and children. Volunteers gathered over multiple sessions to prep, cook, package, and hand-deliver the boxes, which included challah, dips, soup, chicken, meat, kugel, side dishes and desserts – all prepared with warmth and care.

Organizers say the initiative was never only about food. “The goal of The Kindness Hub is to create meaningful opportunities for people to connect through giving,” says Goldie Avtzon, one of the event organizers. “The meals mattered deeply, and so did the experience of volunteers coming together, meeting new people, and feeling part of something purposeful.”

Recipients of the Boxes of Kindness shared emotional feedback following the deliveries:
“This was so helpful for me and my family, who struggle with getting food daily. This really means a lot. It was very much appreciated.”
“The box was packed so intentionally that it made receiving this box feel special as opposed to feeling needy.”
“This box feels like a hug.”

Volunteers described the experience as equally impactful.
“The Kindness Hub is filling a void that exists in Crown Heights,” one participant shared. “There is nothing like cooking with friends, especially when you know it is going to feed families in your own community.”

Another volunteer wrote:
“It was a great opportunity to socialize, meet new people, and connect through kindness.”

Organizers hope this will be the first of many future projects. They say continued programming will require modest financial support from the community. Each Box of Kindness event costs approximately $2,500 to cover ingredients, supplies, equipment, and packaging. “We saw firsthand how much this project meant both to recipients and volunteers,” says S. Yarmush, an active participant. “With community support, we hope to continue creating opportunities that bring kindness into action.”

The Kindness Hub is already organizing another set of events after Shavuos to give single-parent families some more relief. It includes a Challah Bake on June 4 followed by another Box of Kindness production during the week of June 7-11. Stay tuned for details.

Those interested in volunteering, partnering, or helping sponsor future events can contact The Kindness Hub at:
Whatsapp: 718-581-7383
Email: [email protected]
Website: kindnesshubch.org

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In an uplifting atmosphere of hisaorerus (awakening) and kedushah, the annual gathering and traditional Seudas Mitzvah of the “Global Tehillim Society” was held on the day following Isru Chag HaShavuos. This special event took place in a hall adjacent to and overlooking the holy Tziyon of King David on Mount Zion in the Old City of Yerushalayim. It was arranged in honor of the Yoma Dehillula Rabba of the Ne’im Zemiros Yisrael (the Sweet Singer of Israel), which falls on the second day of Shavuos.

This gathering is not merely another routine event; rather, it is the direct continuation of a historic, holy chain (shalsheles hakodesh). The “Global Tehillim Society” was founded 84 years ago, during the dark days when a heavy cloud of destruction and loss hovered over the Jewish communities of Europe. It was the Frierdiker Rebbe, the Rebbe Rayatz, nishmaso eden, who—in the very midst of World War II and the terrible Holocaust—took a series of heavenly initiatives, among them the establishment of this society. To this day, it is chilling to read the words he wrote from the depths of his heart in a letter at that time:

“Through their prayers, the praises of the Sweet Singer of Israel, they will protect Bnei Yisrael and will act to bring about the victory of honesty and justice, and to alleviate the birth pangs of Moshiach (chevlei Moshiach).”

In the year 5750 (1990), exactly 36 years ago, this monumental endeavor experienced a profound renewal. Following the holy directive of the Rebbe to the administration of “Colel Chabad,” the crown was restored to its former glory. From then until today, the voice of prayer at this holy site has never ceased. A permanent minyan of Chassidim and anshei ma’aseh (men of action), among the esteemed figures of heavenly Yerushalayim, gathers day in and day out to recite the entire Sefer Tehillim with deliberation and hisaorerus. As they do so, they arouse heavenly mercy (rachamei shamayim) and specifically mention the names of those in need of a yeshuah (salvation).

During the gathering, prominent Rabbonim delivered addresses in honor of this exalted occasion: Harav Hachassid R’ Yitzchak Meir Halperin – Chairman of the Association of Descendants of the Alter Rebbe. Harav Hachassid Rabbi Yosef Yitzchak Slonim shlita – Rabbi of the ‘Baal HaTanya Shul’. Harav Hachassid R’ Moshe Tzvi Halperin – Rabbi of the Chabad communities in the Ramot Daled and Beis Yisrael neighborhoods. Harav Hachassid R’ Chaim Sasson – Author of numerous important sefarim.

Furthermore, the event was honored by the participation of several distinguished guests: Harav Hachassid R’ Eliezer Lichtenstein – A respected member of Anash in Yerushalayim and a veteran educator. Harav Hachassid R’ Yosef Lipa Alperowitz – Gabbai of the ‘Beis Yosef’ Shul and one of the elder, finest educators in Yerushalayim. Rabbi Menachem Mendel Azdaba – The Rebbe’s Shliach to the Jewish Quarter of the Old City. Harav Hachassid R’ Moshe Shmuel Deutsch – Representative of the Colel Chabad administration and director of the Tehillim Society.

The speakers at the event spoke one after another about the immense zechus (merit) bestowed upon the members of the “Global Tehillim Society,” and sought to praise the blessed work of its dedicated coordinator, Harav Hachassid R’ Daniel Koenig. In their remarks, they emphasized the uncompromising dedication of the minyan members, who never forgo their kvius (set commitment) and stand faithfully at their post to offer heartfelt, inner prayers for the salvation of the klal and the prat (the community and the individual)—every single day of the year, regardless of weather conditions. Special thanks were also extended to R’ Shmuel Mendelson for his invaluable assistance in organizing the gathering.

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On Sunday before Shavuos, Shmuel Zahavy Cheder Chabad Toronto held their annual Sunday Father and Son Learning and Breakfast.

More than 300 fathers and talmidim joined for Rosh Chodesh Shacharis, learning about the 12 Pessukim, and a delicious catered brunch. Rabbi Yitzchok Rosenfeld, Cheder’s former grade 3 rebbe, spoke to the boys about the power of achdus.

Then everyone played a lively 12 Pesukim Bingo game. The Grade 5-7 boys spent the previous days creating beautiful displays that depicted one of the Pessukim or one of the Rebbe’s Mivtzas. These were displayed for everyone to peruse and enjoy.

Thanks were given to Rabbi Bard-wigdor and Rabbi Marmulszteyn for organizing this event as well as the many generous sponsors whose support made the day so special.

In a historic milestone for Central Yeshiva Tomchei Tmimim, 70 of the nearly 100 talmidim currently enrolled in the Dayanus program were recently tested successfully on Hilchos Shabbos, marking the largest group since the Rebbe initiated the program at the yeshiva in 5736.

In a series of tests administered by Rosh HaYeshiva Rabbi Zalman Labkowski, the talmidim were tested on the second section of Hilchos Shabbos.

“This is a very significant milestone,” said Rabbi Ahron Liberow, who heads the program. “While the program has grown exponentially in recent years, having the vast majority of our largest cohort yet successfully maintain the rigorous curriculum of Hilchos Shabbos is particularly noteworthy.”

The program dedicates nearly a full year to Hilchos Shabbos, divided into three sections. The curriculum covers the majority of Hilchos Shabbos, beginning with the Mechaber and Nosei Keilim and continuing through the Alter Rebbe’s Shulchan Aruch.

At the tests, a l’chaim was shared in honor of the nine talmidim who, with the completion of Hilchos Shabbos, successfully concluded the program’s thirteen required subjects: Yaacov Alpern, Shaya Begun, Shmuel Gurary, Kalman Krinsky, Mendel Segal, Mendel Serebryanski, Leibel Springer, Mendel Sternberg, and Raphael Wilmowsky.

Applications for 5787 are currently open. To apply visit dayanus.org/apply.

In the heart of Maryland’s Eastern Shore—on the historic grounds of Kent Island, known as the third-oldest British settlement in America—a new chapter of the Rebbe’s Shlichus is unfolding.

Rabbi Mendel and Rivky Stern, together with their children Levik’l and Moussia, are establishing a new Shlichus based in Kent Island, serving the entire Upper Eastern Shore of Maryland. This includes a vast and largely rural region spanning over 90 miles, reaching communities across Queen Anne’s, Kent, Talbot, Caroline and Dorchester Counties.

Appointed under the leadership of Head Shliach Rabbi Shmuel Kaplan, and with the assistance of Rabbi Nochum Light of Chabad of Anne Arundel County, the Stern family has embraced the unique challenge—and opportunity—of bringing Yiddishkeit to Jews spread across small towns, farmland, and quiet coastal communities.

In a place where organized Jewish life has been scarce, the Sterns have begun hosting Peulos and gatherings that are igniting a sense of connection and Jewish pride. A recent public Menorah lighting drew close to 50 participants—an inspiring turnout for a region where such events are rare.

At the same time, this Shlichus is extending its reach to the next generation as well, including Jewish students at Washington College in nearby Chestertown—ensuring that even in smaller, less-served campuses, students have access to Yiddishkeit, community, and connection.

What makes this Shlichus especially powerful is the mission to reach every Jew, no matter how far. Whether it’s a family tucked away on a quiet country road or a retiree living near the Chesapeake Bay, the message is the same: you are not alone, and you belong.

To support this Shlichus and help expand its reach across the Eastern Shore:

Zelle/PayPal/Cashapp: ChabadKe[email protected]

Credit card: https://www.zeffy.com/en-US/donation-form/chabad-kent-island

FREE CLASS FOR CROWN HEIGHTS MOTHERS, BUBBIES, TEACHERS AND PRINCIPALS

Morning and Evening options!
Wednesday May 27, 11:15AM
Wednesday, June 3, 8 PM
At Miriam’s Motherhood Center
781 East New York Ave

RSVP: miriamscenter.org
https://tinyurl.com/4bbvhxf2

Come join Sara Chana Silverstein for a FREE interactive class designed for moms, bubbies, and caregivers who want to help children feel calmer, happier, more focused, emotionally balanced, and better able to thrive. This exciting hands-on workshop is all about the use of herbs to support children’s emotional wellness. Together, we’ll taste herbs, smell essential oils, and explore practical, time-honored herbal approaches to helping kids with sleep, focus, emotional regulation, healthy eating, and everyday challenges that so many families are facing today.

Children today are struggling more than ever with ADHD, anxiety, frustration, mood swings, stress, and focus challenges. Parents are searching for effective ways to support their children while helping them build confidence, resilience, and emotional stability. In this eye-opening workshop, Sara Chana will share how herbs have been used for generations to support emotional wellness in both children and adults.

Parents will leave feeling empowered, educated, and inspired with practical tools and fresh insights they can begin using at home right away. The class is based on Sara Chana’s new book, Moodtopia for Kids, and Sara Chana will also be available for a special book signing.

Today, more children than ever are prescribed medications for ADHD, anxiety, and emotional challenges. As of early 2026, an estimated 3.5 million children ages 3–17 in the United States are prescribed medication for ADHD. Based on recent data, more than 4 million American children and adolescents, roughly 1 in 12, are estimated to be taking psychotropic medications, including over 270,000 toddlers and preschoolers. These numbers are surprising and highlight how many families are searching for answers and support.

For many children, medication can be life-changing and incredibly helpful. At the same time, some children experience side effects such as decreased appetite, trouble sleeping, irritability, or mood changes. Parents deserve access to education, information, and supportive options so they can make informed choices for their children and families.

This workshop is not about fear or judgment. It is about opening the conversation and exploring the many ways we can help children feel their very best, emotionally, physically, and mentally. Whether you are curious about herbs, looking for additional support tools, or simply want to better understand your child’s emotional world, this class promises to be inspiring, practical, and deeply empowering.

Dr. Ephraim Rubenstein, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, and devoted Chosid from England who founded an organization to provide assistance to many, passed away on 4 Sivan, 5786.

He was 69.

Dr. Rubenstein founded Keren Shmuel in 1996 in memory of his father, an organisation that played an important role within the UK Jewish community by supporting religious education, charitable institutions, and families in need.

Through grants and assistance, Keren Shmuel strengthened schools, community programmes, and charitable initiatives across the United Kingdom.

In later years, he expanded his charitable work internationally through Keren Shmuel Zhitomer, further benefiting Jewish communities in Russia and Israel. Through his tzedakah initiatives, many individuals and families received educational support and financial assistance, reflecting the generosity and compassion that defined his life.

He was known for his deep warmth, unwavering faith, generosity, and devotion to his family, friends, and community. He touched countless lives through his kindness, wisdom, and caring heart, and he will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him.

He is survived by his wife, children, and grandchildren.

Baruch Dayan Ha’emes.

By Kasriel Shemtov, CHYE

One of the most common patterns I’ve observed while mentoring entrepreneurs through CHYE is that many businesses don’t fail because the idea was weak—they struggle because discipline disappears once money starts coming in.

Launching or scaling a business is exciting. Revenue starts growing, customers begin responding, and opportunities suddenly feel endless. But that stage can also become dangerous. When early success creates overconfidence, many founders begin treating the business like a personal ATM instead of the fragile engine it still is.
In reality, the early and middle years of a business require tremendous restraint, focus, and patience.

The entrepreneurs who build lasting companies understand this deeply.
The first principle is simple: be extremely careful with every dollar spent.

In the beginning, capital efficiency is often your greatest advantage. While others spend aggressively on impressive offices, unnecessary hires, or flashy branding, disciplined founders constantly ask themselves one important question: “Does this expense directly help us grow the business?”

The strongest businesses are usually built by people who learned how to operate lean long before they became successful. They track their numbers carefully, understand their margins, and stay focused on building sustainable systems rather than appearances.

Another major challenge today is lifestyle pressure.

Social media has made it incredibly easy for entrepreneurs to compare themselves to others. You see founders, taking extravagant vacations, or projecting enormous success online, and naturally there’s pressure to keep up.

But appearances can be very misleading.
Often, people don’t see the debt, outside funding, family support, or financial stress sitting behind the image. One of the healthiest things a business owner can do is separate personal ego from business decisions.

A business should support a lifestyle upgrade only when it can genuinely afford it without weakening future growth.
I often encourage entrepreneurs to set a modest, consistent owner draw and avoid making emotional financial decisions based on one strong month or temporary momentum.
Another area where discipline is critical is partnerships and investors.

Many founders assume that if someone brings money to the table, they automatically make a good equity partner. In reality, capital alone is rarely enough.

The strongest partners contribute strategic value—industry relationships, operational expertise, customer introductions, or skills that strengthen the business in ways money alone cannot.

Otherwise, founders may end up sacrificing significant ownership while creating future friction, conflicting priorities, or pressure that ultimately hurts the company.
Sometimes, the right mentor, advisor, or strategic relationship can provide more value than an investor taking equity.
That’s one of the reasons CHYE exists—to help entrepreneurs access experienced guidance and support without unnecessarily complicating their cap table or giving up ownership too early.

Another dangerous mistake I frequently see is founders confusing business cash flow with personal wealth.

A healthy operating account balance does not mean the money is available for personal spending. Unexpected expenses, delayed receivables, economic shifts, or growth opportunities can quickly change the picture.

The businesses that survive difficult periods are usually the ones that protected their reserves when times were good.
Clear separation between personal and business finances is absolutely essential. Owners should pay themselves predictably and maintain discipline around distributions and spending.

Perhaps most importantly, successful entrepreneurs maintain patience and focus.
Real wealth compounds quietly over many years. The strongest founders stay intensely focused on improving their product, serving customers well, refining operations, and strengthening the core business during the critical building phase.

Distractions can become extremely expensive. Chasing every opportunity, attending endless networking events, or constantly pivoting weakens momentum.
Businesses grow faster when leadership remains focused on the few things that truly matter.

One painful truth is that “acting rich” has destroyed many businesses that otherwise had tremendous potential.

Some owners begin believing they’ve already made it as soon as revenue increases. They lease expensive cars, dramatically raise personal spending, or prioritize status over stability.

But underneath the surface, the business itself is often still fragile.
In many cases, lifestyle inflation and overconfidence create far more damage than bad markets or weak ideas ever do.
The entrepreneurs who ultimately build enduring companies think differently. They reinvest aggressively in the early profitable years, strengthen their foundations, build loyal customer bases, improve systems, and create real long-term stability.

The rewards eventually come—but they arrive as the natural result of discipline and consistency, not appearances.

At CHYE, we work closely with entrepreneurs at every stage—from startups to established businesses—helping them navigate these exact challenges with clarity, structure, and experienced mentorship.

If you’re building a business today, remember that long-term success is rarely built through shortcuts or appearances. It’s built through patience, discipline, and consistent focus over time.
Those foundations may not always look exciting in the moment—but they are what ultimately create real freedom, stability, and lasting success.

At CHYE, we’re here to support you at every stage—whether you’re starting, growing, or navigating challenges.

👉 Book a free mentorship session:
Level8 NYC Mentorship Session
We’d also love to hear your thoughts on this piece—and what topics you’d like us to cover next. Email us at [email protected]

As the KSCVK “Knot Alone” raffle enters its final hours, community members are making their last chance entries in support of an organization that has helped countless chossonim and kallos begin married life with dignity.

For years, KSCVK, under the leadership of Mrs. Devorah Benjamin, has quietly become a lifeline for couples facing the overwhelming financial pressures that often come with planning a wedding. From major expenses to the countless smaller ones that quickly add up, KSCVK has helped ease the burden for families throughout the community, always with extraordinary sensitivity and respect.

Those who know Mrs. Benjamin often speak not only about the help itself, but about the compassion behind it. Her care for every individual and her tireless dedication to the community are a large part of why KSCVK has earned such deep trust throughout Crown Heights and beyond.

With tickets being purchased from around the world, the overwhelming response to this year’s raffle has become a powerful testament to just how far-reaching KSCVK’s impact truly is, and how deeply connected people feel to both the cause and Mrs. Benjamin herself.

Now, supporters have the opportunity to stand behind that mission while entering to win an array of incredible prizes through the “Knot Alone” raffle.

The drawing takes place tonight, and organizers are encouraging anyone who has not yet entered to do so before it closes.

Get your tickets now at https://kscvk.org/colpr

By COLlive staff

Comedian Modi Rosenfeld recently sat down for a conversation with speaker and humorist David Nesenoff on his podcast, And Here’s Modi.

The discussion focused largely on the lasting influence of the Rebbe and the continued global impact of the Chabad movement decades later.

Nesenoff also discussed his bestselling book, “I Never Met The Rebbe Many Times,” sharing stories that combine humor, personal experiences, and encounters connected to Chabad shluchim around the world.

During the interview, Modi praised the book’s engaging style and remarked that he found it difficult to put down.

Throughout the conversation, Nesenoff reflected on visits to Chabad centers across the globe and the unique communities and shluchim he encountered along the way. Many of the stories highlighted the ongoing reach of the Rebbe’s vision in Jewish communities worldwide.

The interview blended thoughtful discussion with humor, balancing personal reflection with Modi’s well-known comedic style.

VIDEO:

For booking, visit davidinspires.com

TYH Nation has released a new music video titled “Jungle,” featuring singer Mendy Worch together with the TYH Boys, built around a message of bringing light and positivity into a complicated world.

The project began with songwriter and composer Moshe Milstein reflecting on conversations he heard during weekly farbrengens led by Rabbi Yirmiyahu Katz in Borough Park, Brooklyn.

According to Milstein, the gatherings often focused on dealing with uncertainty, personal struggles, and the feeling that the world can sometimes appear overwhelming.

One particular message stayed with him.

“It’s a jungle out there, and sometimes a jungle can be a very scary place,” Rabbi Katz said, before emphasizing that a person does not need to fix the entire world at once. Instead, he encouraged people to focus on bringing light into their own surroundings, believing that positive actions naturally spread outward.

Milstein said the idea immediately inspired him to turn the concept into music.

“The message hit my heart and I turned it into music right away,” he said. “I composed this song to share that light.”

The song’s central theme focuses on the idea that every individual has the ability to influence the people and environment around them through acts of goodness, Torah, and mitzvos.

The production was adapted and co-written by Mendy Portnoy and Yehuda Pinsker, with vocals by Mendy Worch and the TYH Boys choir under the direction of Meir Green. The track was mixed and mastered by Ramiro “Rambo” Fernandez.

The video production was handled by Naftoli Winter, with editing by Ezriel Gross and creative direction by TYH Creative.

VIDEO: TYH Nation Presents JUNGLE – Mendy Worch Feat. TYH Boys

By COLlive reporter
Photos: Mordechai Lubecki

In honor of Isru Chag Shavuos, a Kinus Torah was held at the shul of the Beth Chaya Mushka school in Paris, France, in keeping with the Rebbe’s directive.

Rabbanim and mashpi’im addressed the gathering with divrei Torah, halacha, and Chassidus, inspiring the dozens of participants to strengthen their learning with renewed chayus and dedication.

Among the speakers were Rabbi Chaim Hertz, shliach and rov in Paris’ 16th arrondissement; Rabbi Moshe Vishedsky, shliach and rov in Paris’ 19th arrondissement; Rabbi Netanel Leib, a member of Vaad Rabbonei Lubavitch in France; and Rabbi Menachem Mendel Uzan, rosh mesivta and mashpia at Yeshivas Tomchei Temimim Lubavitch in Brunoy.

The gathering created an atmosphere of hisorerus and encouragement, as participants committed themselves to renewed growth in Torah learning, each according to his abilities.

VIDEO:

By COLlive staff
Photos: N. Anastasia

Eighty-four years after he left for the blood-soaked frontlines of World War II and never returned, the Jewish soldier Samuil Ilyich Shalit Hy”d, was laid to rest last week in a moving military and Jewish ceremony held in the Russian city of Krasnoyarsk.

This closure brings an end to an ordeal of more than eight decades during which he was considered missing, leaving a profound impact on his family members and the local Jewish community.

Shalit, a native of the city of Achinsk in the Krasnoyarsk region, served as a brave platoon commander in the 144th Infantry Brigade. In the year 5701 (1941), following the invasion of the Nazis, may their names be obliterated, he was drafted into the army and went out to defend his homeland. A year later, in 5702 (1942), contact with him was lost, and he was officially declared missing.

For decades, his family members did not know what had become of him or where his bones were buried. The immense void and longing even led his relatives in Israel to fill out a ‘Page of Testimony’ for him in the year 5767 (2007) at the Yad Vashem institution in Jerusalem, in an attempt to commemorate the memory of the hero whose burial place remained unknown. Now, the dramatic turning point has arrived.

During complex search operations conducted in the month of Elul 5785 (2024), at the site of fierce battles near the village of Nelyuchi in the Novgorod region, two special location units of the Russian army—the Ivan Guzlenko Search Unit from Nazarovo and the “Chelny” unit from Naberezhnye Chelny—succeeded in uncovering the soldier’s remains.

Found right alongside the remains was the item that completely changed the picture: a miraculously preserved personal military dog tag, engraved with the Jewish hero’s name. The sensational discovery enabled his definitive identification and his return home, back to the soil of Siberia.

The farewell ceremony opened with an impressive state and military service by the eternal flame memorial in the city of Krasnoyarsk. From there, the funeral procession continued to the Jewish cemetery. The city’s rabbi, the Shliach Rabbi Binyamin Wagner, recited the Hashkavah (memorial prayer) and Kaddish for the elevation of the hero’s soul, in the presence of deeply moved family members and members of the Jewish community.

“It was an incredibly powerful and moving feeling,” shared Rabbi Wagner, immediately after the ceremony. “We felt as if history itself had stopped for a single moment, just to restore the man’s name, his lost honor, and his rightful place alongside his relatives. After 84 years of fog and pain, Samuil’s war is finally over, and he has merited to reach his final, proper resting place according to Jewish tradition. His bravery will remain eternally engraved in our hearts.”

This historic event is deeply connected to the extensive commemorative activities led by the Jewish community in Krasnoyarsk. Just last year, during a historic Unity Shabbat of the rabbis of Russian cities held in the city, led by the Chief Rabbi of Russia Berel Lazar, a unique memorial monument was inaugurated in the courtyard of the central synagogue.

The monument was established in memory of hundreds of Jews, residents of Krasnoyarsk and the surrounding area, who were drafted to fight the Nazi murderers and whose burial places remain unknown. Now, only a year after the monument’s inauguration, the community has had the rare privilege of physically escorting one of those very heroes to a proper Jewish burial.

Bringing the soldier to a Jewish burial serves as further testament to the glorious revival of Judaism in the capital of Siberia, under the leadership of Rabbi Wagner and his family, who have been active there for over 25 years. The magnificent network of institutions, the restored historic synagogue, and the warm and vibrant community built with great effort, are what made it possible to give the war hero the final honor he deserves—in a well-kept and lively Jewish cemetery, which stands as a living monument to the eternity of the Jewish people, even in the heart of freezing Siberia.

The community operates a magnificent central synagogue, alongside educational, charitable, and cultural institutions, serving thousands of Jews throughout the region. The community acts as a prominent spiritual and social hub, connecting the younger generation to its Jewish roots while actively preserving and honoring the historic memory of the heroism of the region’s Jews.

By COLlive staff

Yeshivas Dor Shvi’i in Miami, Florida has announced the appointment of Rabbi Shneur Pevzner as Mashpia for the upcoming school year, joining Reb Labish Richardson, Dean, Rabbi Ben Bursk, Menahel, and Rabbi Mottel Zirkind, Head of Iyun, as part of the yeshiva’s expanding hanhala.

Rabbi Pevzner brings with him years of experience in chinuch and has served in various yeshivos in Chicago, Beit Shemesh, and most recently at Oholei Torah. Known for his warmth, chayus, and deep personal investment in every bochur, Rabbi Pevzner has earned a reputation for building genuine and lasting relationships with talmidim while helping guide their growth in learning, chassidus, and daily hanhaga.

“When I started this yeshiva five years ago, I never imagined we would grow to this point,” reflected Richardson. “To see the growth — not just in numbers, but in the bochurim themselves — is something incredibly meaningful.”

The appointment comes as YDS prepares for major growth next year, with enrollment already doubled. In response, the yeshiva has continued expanding its staff and programming while maintaining the personal attention and guidance given to each talmid.

“What truly sets Dor Shvi’i apart is the relationship between the staff and each bochur,” said Rabbi Bursk. “When a talmid feels understood, supported, and genuinely cared for, it changes the entire way he learns, grows, and sees himself.”

In addition to Rabbi Pevzner’s appointment, a strong group of shluchim and eltere bochurim have been added to the YDS team to further strengthen the atmosphere of learning, farbrengens, mivtzaim, and the day-to-day chayus throughout the yeshiva.

VIDEO:

Enrollment for the coming year is already nearing capacity, with Shiur Gimmel currently full and only a limited number of spots remaining in Shiur Aleph and Shiur Beis.

Visas are also available for select shluchim and bochurim joining the yeshiva from overseas.

For more information or admissions inquiries, please contact Rabbi Ben Bursk at 201-486-3005 or visit ydsmiami.com

By Reuven Rosenfeld – VINnews.com

Toronto Police have released a new security camera image of missing teenager Esther, captured on the evening she vanished, as searches continue for the ninth day with the support of hundreds of volunteers and community organizations.

Esther was last seen on Friday, May 15, at Earl Bales Park in Toronto. She was later spotted near a highway, moving northeast. She is described as wearing a green long-sleeved shirt, gray sweatpants and no shoes.

Police, along with volunteers and a helicopter, have been conducting extensive searches. Shomrim Toronto, which is assisting in the effort, received special rabbinic permission to continue operations during the Shavuot holiday and Shabbat.

Esther’s mother, Shira, expressed deep concern for her daughter’s safety in comments to reporters. “I’m afraid she’ll be too naive and trust people who don’t mean well,” she said. “It’s really, really concerning.”

A relative, Loli Herman, told CBC’s Metro Morning that the family is “deeply worried” and urged the public to check security cameras, backyards and storage sheds for any sign of Esther.

“She seems very social, very intelligent,” Herman said, noting that while Esther is diagnosed on the autism spectrum, people who do not know her may not realize it. “We want Esti home. She has been missing for too long.”

The family has praised the overwhelming community support, with volunteers staffing command centers, canvassing neighborhoods and distributing flyers.

Shomrim Toronto expressed gratitude to the hundreds of volunteers who have dedicated time to the search. “We remain fully committed to maximizing our efforts to ensure her safe return,” the organization said. The Shomrim emergency line remains active for any tips.

Anyone with information is urged to contact Toronto Police or Shomrim immediately.

VIDEO:

In a display of unity, dedication, and renewed Shlichus, thirteen Shluchim families serving throughout Berlin came together for a special Kinus Hashluchim, a day of learning, reflection, strengthening, and deepening the sense of mission. The Kinus took place at the Amano Hotel in Berlin, in a warm, uplifting, and inspiring atmosphere.

The Kinus opened with heartfelt words from Rabbi Yehuda Teichtel, Chief Rabbi of Berlin and Head Shliach, who expressed deep gratitude to Hashem and to the Rebbe for the blessings and success that continue to accompany the growth of Berlin’s Jewish community.

In his remarks, he reflected on the significance of this special period, as the community prepares to mark thirty years since the establishment of Chabad in Berlin, three decades of growth, vibrant Jewish activity, outreach, and far-reaching impact.

The gathering carried a deep and emotional tone following the recent passing of one of Berlin’s devoted Shluchim, Rabbi Avraham Golovacheov, of blessed memory, who passed away during Pesach. His absence was deeply felt by the participants, and his life and work served as a source of strength and inspiration to continue the mission with even greater dedication and resolve.

During the Kinus, renowned coach Dr. Oded Karavchik, CEO of the “Insights for Success” group and one of Israel’s leading personal and business coaches, joined the gathering. For over a decade, Dr. Karavchik has led meaningful courses and trained a new generation of coaches across Israel. In Berlin, he delivered two powerful sessions based on the teachings of Tanya, focusing on personal empowerment, clarity in Shlichus, a sense of purpose, and the inner strength required for a life of Shlichus. His sessions were practical and deeply inspiring, providing participants with renewed clarity and tools for their ongoing work.

The sessions included open discussion, sharing of experiences, mutual consultation, and encouragement in a warm, familial, and supportive atmosphere.

In the evening, the Kinus expanded into a moving family gathering, as the Shluchim families, their children, and the Talmidim Hashluchim of Berlin joined together for a festive and uplifting dinner.

At the same time, a special program for the Shluchim’s children took place, including trips and engaging activities organized by the Talmidim Hashluchim of Berlin under the direction of Tzvi Shusterman, ensuring that even the youngest participants experienced the spirit and energy of the day.

A particularly meaningful and inspiring moment was the Farbrengen led by Rabbi Menachem Junik, Shliach in London, who shared memories, insights, and personal stories from his holy service in the Rebbe’s home and his recollections of Rebbetzin Chaya Mushka Schneerson, of blessed memory. The uplifting Farbrengen continued late into the night.

During the evening, a special video presentation was also shown, highlighting thirty years of activity and growth of the Jewish community of Chabad Berlin.

A special thank you to Rabbi Mendel Brandwine and Rabbi Dovid Tiechtel for their dedicated assistance and tireless efforts in organising the Kinus and ensuring its success.

More than just a gathering, this Kinus was a day of renewed Shlichus, strengthened unity, and clarity of purpose. As Chabad Berlin prepares to mark thirty years of activity, the inspiration and strength drawn from this special day will continue to accompany the Shluchim in their sacred work.

With renewed energy and strengthened resolve, the Shluchim returned to their communities, ready to continue illuminating Jewish life throughout Berlin with even greater light, warmth, and dedication.

combatantisemitism.org

Since becoming CAM’s Public Affairs Advocate for Australia following the murder of her father in last December’s Bondi Beach Hanukkah massacre, Sheina Gutnick has faced a torrent of antisemitic abuse, including a message expressing regret she had not been killed in the attack as well.

Gutnick’s father, Reuven Morrison, was shot dead as he heroically confronted the terrorist gunmen by throwing bricks at them.

In the aftermath of losing her father, Gutnick turned grief into action, building a global platform dedicated to fighting the evil that took his life. Earlier this month, Gutnick was the first witness to testify before the Royal Commission on Antisemitism and Social Cohesion.

Gutnick’s transformation into a public figure almost did not happen. In the first hours after the attack, she refused all media requests. Then, at 11:30 p.m. that night, she received a message from a CBS journalist. “We need to tell the world what your dad did,” it read.

“My father doesn’t have a voice,” Gutnick replied. “I have to speak for him and say what he did and what happened.”

By morning, her story was in every major news outlet in Australia.

Gutnick’s sudden visibility came at personal cost, turning her into a target for antisemitic invective. Countless vitriolic messages have been addressed to her online. The worst, posted from an active, identifiable social media account, wished that Gutnick had been murdered at Bondi alongside her father.

“I’ve seen hundreds of them,” she recalled, “and that was the only one that managed to rattle me. I feel like that says a lot, because we’re so used to it, and it’s become so normalized.”

The venom has taken many forms. One message read: “World will be a much better place when they kill all you dirty… Truly a scum to humanity… rest in piss.” Others called Gutnick a “drama queen” and mockingly compared her to Holocaust victim Anne Frank.

One commenter posted a “Victim Card: Declined” image, and another wrote, “Victim time again.” Some ignored Gutnick’s father’s murder entirely, responding to her grief with demands that she answer for the situation in the Gaza Strip.

Furthermore, antisemitic conspiracy claims that the Bondi massacre was a false flag operation orchestrated by Israel continue to proliferate online, nearly half a year after the attack.

No Room for Jewish Grief

According to Gutnick, a single post featuring her drew more than 3,800 comments, the majority antisemitic. Some posted images of a boot stomping on an Israeli flag and labeled the flags of Israel and America “flags of terrorism.”

One wrote, “Intifada is not only appropriate, it is necessary to stop the genocidal maniacs in Israel. It should be fully globalized.”

Post after post included language such as “baby killer Israelis” and “Fuq Israel. Parasites,” as well emojis of middle fingers and laughing faces mocking the Bondi victims.

For thousands, a daughter’s account of her father being shot dead at a Hanukkah celebration was not an occasion for grief, sympathy, or an outpouring of love and support. Instead, it offered simply another opportunity to demonize the Jewish people and state. When people become so consumed by hostility toward Israel, they no longer respond to Jewish grief or trauma with basic humanity.

Gutnick points to social media itself as the cause. “Society normally had checks and balances to keep racist, antisemitic, bigotry behavior in check,” she noted. “Now there are absolutely no checks and balances. Every thought is given legitimacy and celebrated. And we’re bearing the brunt of that.”

Journalists covering Gutnick’s story have told her they felt they were living in a twilight zone, observing a hatred that defies rational explanation.

Gutnick has not been deterred. “What keeps me going,” Gutnick said, “is the fact that I now carry my father’s legacy forward as he cannot do anymore — as he was murdered in the most horrific antisemitic attack in the Diaspora we’ve seen in a very long time.”

VIDEO: Gutnick’s Royal Commission testimony (beginning at around 1:01:00):

By Mimi Fellig

Moshiach is not here yet. The Rebbe urged us to open our eyes — perhaps today we need to open them even wider.

Yes, the world is racing toward Geulah. So many incredible things are unfolding with breathtaking speed. Yet at the very same time, there is still loss, grief, and pain. None of us controls tomorrow.

We are blessed every minute, every hour, every day. But human nature often reacts more strongly to pain than to blessings. As Reb Mendel Futerfas said, it is easy to drift into numbness — but that is not how a Jew is meant to live.

When we hear good news about another Jew, we should truly feel joy for them and celebrate their simcha wholeheartedly — even if we ourselves are still waiting for ours. Let people know how genuinely happy you are for them.

Recently, too many young children have been taken from this world. Perhaps Hashem needs them to help bring Moshiach in a more revealed way. Maybe the Rebbe needs them near him to strengthen Tzivos Hashem, the army he built to help win this final battle. Or perhaps these precious Neshomos are simply too pure and elevated for an imperfect world.

We teach our children that angels cannot do mitzvos — only people can. Children particularly run to do acts of kindness and goodness. They want to tip the scale. They truly believe they can help bring our generation to Geulah.

But when Hashem takes a child too soon, the pain is beyond words. It changes a family forever — especially the mother who carried that child. Until we are reunited, how could it not?

People often say, “Time heals.” Does a parent miss a child less as time goes on? If someone travels far away, do you not long to see them even more? After a Taanis (fast, )the hunger often grows stronger, not weaker.

In the same way, a mother who loses a child may feel the longing more deeply with every birthday, every Yom Tov, every graduation, every family simcha, and each photograph that reminds her of what feels painfully incomplete.

We do not simply “get over it.”
Somehow, we learn to carry it.

We are allowed to be multifaceted — or, as some call it, “complicated.” A person can laugh and cry in the very same moment. Mothers miss their children with a force words cannot fully describe. And the sensitivity of others truly matters.

Please do not say, “I don’t know what to do.”
Sometimes simply saying, “I am so sorry,” is enough.

There are many quiet ways to show kindness, to show up, and to learn what helps. It is not about being “in the know.” It is not about us — it is about the other person.

And perhaps a small thought about the phrase “BDE.”

Very often, the moment someone passes away, people quickly type those letters almost automatically. No one means harm, chas v’shalom — it has simply become habit. But perhaps we can bring a little more warmth and humanity into those words.

Instead of just writing “BDE,” perhaps write the words out:
“Baruch Dayan HaEmes.”
And maybe add:
“May Hashem comfort you.”
“My heart is with you.”
“I am so sorry for your loss.”

You can send a private message afterward, a thoughtful note, or even a small personalized card.

Eventually, the family will read those messages — and they will feel your warmth. It matters.

Speech is a gift that distinguishes us as human beings. Words can build, and words can break. “BDE” has become normalized, but sometimes normalization can lessen sensitivity.

The mourner says “Baruch Dayan HaEmes” because ultimately we accept Hashem’s greatness even when we cannot understand His ways. But perhaps for others — especially when speaking to grieving parents — gentler and fuller words can bring more comfort.

And if you cannot find the words, then simply sit quietly beside them without looking at your phone.

That alone can mean everything.

And soon, very soon, may there no longer be a need to say or write “BDE” at all.

May it transform into something entirely different:

BEST DAY EVER — Moshiach is here.

May it happen now.

—

—in honor of Dovi Fellig, a boy who loved all and a very special sensitive soul

MyLife: Chassidus Applied Episode 592 with Rabbi Simon Jacobson

Sunday, May 24, 2026 / 8 Sivan 5786 – 8:00-9:00PM ET

>> Special Post-Shavuos Edition <<

The topics in this week’s 592nd episode of the highly acclaimed MyLife: Chassidus Applied series, with Rabbi Simon Jacobson, will include:

What should be our primary focus during these days following Shavuos?

How do we integrate and internalize Torah into our lives?

What is the appropriate way to learn Torah?
Where do you begin?
How important is it to understand what you’re learning?
How can the study be inspiring and dynamic?

What is the appropriate way to study Chassidus?
Where do you begin?
What are the axioms and underlying principles one needs to know in order to appreciate Chassidus?
What is the structure of sichos and maamorim?
What texts do you suggest for a 20-year-old?
How can I be sure that what I learn is true?
How can I personalize the ideas and not simply see them as abstract concepts?
How can I be sure that my application of the learning is accurate?

MyLife: Chassidus Applied is a weekly video webcast candidly answering questions from the public about all life matters and challenges, covering the entire spectrum of human experience.

This hour-long dose of insights, broadcast live every Sunday night 8-9PM ET, is meant to provide people with inspired guidance and direction, empowering them to deal with any issue they may face.

In what has become a staple in so many people’s lives, MyLife: Chassidus Applied has provoked a significant reaction from the community, with thousands of people viewing each live broadcast and hundreds of questions pouring in week after week. At the root of every question and personal challenge tackled by the series is the overarching question: Does Judaism have the answers to my personal dilemmas?

MyLife demonstrates how Chassidus provides us with a comprehensive blueprint of the human psyche as a microcosm of the cosmos, and offers us all the guidance we need to live the healthiest possible life and build nurturing homes and families, bringing up the healthiest possible children, emotionally, psychologically and spiritually. MyLife is brought to you by the Meaningful Life Center as a public service, free of charge.

Questions may be submitted anonymously at chassidusapplied.com/ask

VIDEO:

By COLlive reporter

The levaya of Mrs. Mindy Halberstam, a resident of Crown Heights who merited to have a close connection to Rebbetzin Chaya Mushka Schneerson OBM, was held on Sunday.

Mrs. Halberstam (nee Wolghemut) passed on Thursday, Erev Shavuos, 5786 at the age of 77.

Mrs. Halberstam was a sincere, Chasidishe woman, devoted to the Rebbe’s inyanim, and was very involved in Mivtzoim.

She is survived by her husband, Rabbi Chaim Baruch Halberstam, their children Rabbi Yosef Yitzchak Halberstam – Yerushalayim, Rabbi Sholom Ber Halberstam – Chicago, Mrs. Dini Gurary – Montreal, Mrs. Chanie Kramer – Merrick, NY; Mrs. Rivky Shifrin – Little Neck, Queens; Mrs. Chaya Evers – Amsterdam, Mrs. Divi Greisman – Florida and Mrs. Sara Paris; grandchildren.

The levaya passed by 770 Eastern Parkway on Sunday afternoon and she was buried at the Old Montefiore Cemetery.

Shiva at *Ohel Hachomesh at the Ohel*
120-43 226th St
Cambria Heights, NY
11411

Shacharis: 8:00 & 9:00 AM
Break: 12:00-1:30 PM
Mincha: 3:00 PM & 7:45 PM
Maariv – 9:00 pm
Please No visitors after 10:00pm.

Memories and condolences can be sent to [email protected]

By Amit Segal

At the outset of Operation Roaring Lion, there were two definitions of victory on the table: capturing Iran’s enriched uranium or toppling the regime altogether. Given that regime change does not appear to be materializing and one of the parties appears hesitant to make the necessary investments for such an outcome, the sole remaining path to victory appears to be securing the uranium.

The most recent proposal—which Donald Trump claims is already “largely negotiated”—seemingly attempts to follow this path.

According to a report from Channel 12, the agreement would reopen the Strait of Hormuz in exchange for the lifting of the naval blockade and substantial financial relief. However, the core issues regarding the nuclear program and the extraction of Iran’s enriched uranium stockpile would not be resolved upfront; instead, they would be deferred for separate negotiations over a 60-day period. Critically, Senior Iranian sources speaking with The New York Times said the deal would release $25 billion in Iranian assets frozen overseas. They added that the agreement “would halt fighting on all fronts, including in Lebanon.”

If the enriched uranium is indeed surrendered to the United States, it is indeed a notable achievement, but there are two caveats:

The first caveat concerns the actual scope and reality of the nuclear concessions. According to current reports, the negotiations slated to follow the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz will focus exclusively on uranium enriched to 60 percent—the roughly 440 kilograms currently believed to be buried beneath the rubble of the Natanz facility. Meanwhile, the tons of uranium enriched to three percent appear destined to remain inside Iran, with any future restrictions on its enrichment left dangerously ambiguous. Compounding this uncertainty, a senior Iranian official bluntly told Reuters today that Tehran has not actually agreed to hand over any material at all, emphasizing that the preliminary agreement does not even formally address the nuclear issue.

The second caveat is procedural, but no less critical. The framework currently on the table is not a finalized treaty, but merely a temporary Memorandum of Understanding meant to serve as a baseline for future talks. All the thorny details regarding the nuclear stockpile are slated to be ironed out over a 60-day negotiation window. The official justification for this delay is logistical—that safely extracting highly enriched uranium from bombed-out, irradiated rubble is a highly complex operation. In practice, however, it is far more likely a calculated delay, offering Tehran an extended opportunity to rest and recover before entering their next phase of nuclear intractability.

Israel has greeted the news with deep skepticism and more than a touch of fear. The reported memorandum makes zero mention of ballistic missile restrictions. What began largely as a defensive shield for Iran’s nuclear ambitions has mutated into a formidable threat in its own right. Even without the ultimate deterrent of a nuclear warhead, an Iranian ballistic arsenal numbering in the tens of thousands is more than sufficient to paralyze any military action against the Islamic Republic. According to Channel 12, this critical issue—whether through an immediate American concession or a simple lack of interest—never even made it to the negotiating table.

The current form of the deal also leaves the Islamic Republic holding another critical asset: the Strait of Hormuz. While the strategic waterway is slated to reopen, it does so not by virtue of an American victory, but rather by Iran’s sufferance. The current framework temporarily ensures toll-free passage, but absolutely nothing in the agreement guarantees that Tehran won’t eventually set up a toll booth—or abruptly choke off shipping the moment they feel the subsequent 60-day negotiations are stalling.

A secondary, but equally pressing concern in Jerusalem is that the regime has not yet fallen. While never explicitly declared as a military objective, regime change has been the unofficial policy undercurrent of the entire conflict. So far, Tehran has successfully managed to cling to power.

Yet, senior Israeli intelligence officials maintain that a collapse from within remains a distinct possibility—provided the crippling economic blockade is sustained through the end of 2026. If the blockade and economic warfare are traded away for a partial agreement today, that window permanently closes. Meanwhile, domestic repression continues apace; just this morning, Iran executed a man accused of sending information to the US and Israel during the war. Cutting this deal now would not just throw Tehran a financial lifeline—it would constitute a total abandonment of the Iranian protesters who began this entire conflict.

A signature on the dotted line, however, does not automatically underwrite the long-term survival of the Islamic Republic. If this 60-day window serves merely as a temporary pause button on the naval blockade rather than a total rewind of broader U.S. economic pressure, Israel and the United States will likely redouble their efforts toward the alternative path to victory: regime change. Without a comprehensive withdrawal of core sanctions, Iran’s baseline economic reality will continue to make Weimar Germans look prosperous, providing fertile ground to foment widespread domestic revolt.

This is precisely where the $25 billion in unfrozen assets reported by The New York Times becomes the deal’s most critical variable. It acts as a vital liquidity bridge, allowing the Islamic Republic to safely span the economic chasm it is currently teetering over. That massive cash injection provides exactly what Tehran needs: a way to keep its domestic security apparatus paid and loyal while illicit oil flows to China stabilize. In a very literal sense, that $25 billion could spell the difference between collapse and survival.

The most concerning element, however, pertains to the war in Lebanon. Leaks regarding the current agreement point to a halt in fighting across all fronts, including with Hezbollah. Since April 8, Israel’s primary goal has been to decouple Lebanon from the broader Iranian conflict. They temporarily achieved a separation in the immediate aftermath of the ceasefire, until Iranian pressure successfully convinced the United States that larger geopolitical considerations were at stake.

More recently, the conflict has been escalating, with the possibility of a major offensive becoming clearer on the horizon. Until now, the mere prospect of a negotiated deal has served as Iran’s primary leverage to hold Israel back, though that leverage seemed to be disintegrating along with Trump’s patience. If Tehran now manages to use this agreement to formally lock the two fronts together, it would constitute a major strategic defeat for Israel.

If an agreement materializes, the ensuing ceasefire—like almost every recent truce—will raise the million-dollar question: who has to stop, and who gets to keep firing?

The reality on the ground could mirror the late-2024 model, where Hezbollah was forced to stand down while Israel proactively maintained the operational initiative, striking their infrastructure. Alternatively—and more likely—it could devolve into the current war of attrition, with Hezbollah launching opportunistic strikes while the IDF’s responses remain tightly constrained. There is also the danger of regressing to a pre-October 7 “hot peace”—a nominal truce that simply grants Hezbollah the quiet it needs to rearm and rebuild. Finally, the arrangement could fail entirely on day one, serving as nothing more than a cosmetic pause in a de facto, ongoing war.

For a leader who has spent decades building his brand as the sole guarantor of Israeli security, accepting a deal that leaves the regime intact, Hezbollah armed, the ballistic missile program recovering, and Tehran flush with sanctions relief is electoral assisted suicide for Netanyahu. Hanging in the balance of these negotiations is the fate of more than one regime.

VIDEO:

A Kinus Torah was held at Yeshiva Gedolah Lubavitch of London, bringing together the hanhalah and bochurim, fulfilling the Rebbe’s Horaah to make Kinnusei Torah on Isru Chag.

The program was arranged by Hatomim Hashliach Gershon Jaacobson, and MC’d by Hatomim Hashliach Mendel Kievman.

Opening the program with Dvar Malchus , Hatomim Hashliach Zalmy Wagner shared a Sicha explaining how the powerful impact of Matan Torah relates to each and every one of us.

Hatomim Hillel Rappaport then presented a sugya whether a woman is required to repeat bentching if she forgot Yaaleh Veyavo on Yom Tov.

Rabbi Yosef Yitzchok Schtroks- Mashpia in the yeshiva, explained a diyyuk in the Rebbe Rashab’s Maamer which is based on the Mitteler Rebbe’s Maamer and why the Rebbe Rashab crossed out the word Taanug when it appears in the original Maamer of the Mitteler Rebbe.

The keynote pilpul was delivered by Dayan Rabbi Levi Yitzchok Raskin, who discussed making double Sheva Brachos and Sheva Brachos held during the Rebbe’s farbrengens, as well as a discussion regarding a city which takes in shabbos early and how a later chabad minyan can save yidden from being mechalel shabbos an extra hour.

The event was chaired by the Rosh Yeshiva and Mara D’asra, Rabbi Gedalya Lieberman.

Photography by Hatomim Hashliach Mendel Lubin.

Little Avishag Esther, lovingly called Shugi, was supposed to celebrate her birthday.

The balloons were ready.

The cake was waiting.

Her mother was preparing for a day of joy, laughter, and family.

But before the party even began, everything changed.

Shugi suddenly began crying in a frightening way. She cried until she vomited, and her mother knew something was terribly wrong. Instead of celebrating at home, Shugi was rushed to the hospital.

The birthday dress was replaced by hospital clothes.

The candles were replaced by tests.

The celebration became a fight for her life.

Shugi is only a year and a half old. Her life has barely begun.

While her father is serving in the reserves, her mother is standing by her hospital bed, terrified, praying for her little girl to come home.

This family cannot carry this alone.

Please open your heart and help save little Shugi.

Every donation matters. Every share matters.

Donate now

The Jewish Community Council of Greater Coney Island (JCCGCI) has been awarded nearly $15 million over six years through the New York City Department of Youth and Community Development’s Comprehensive After School System of New York City (COMPASS) initiative.

The major award will significantly expand JCCGCI’s after-school and summer programming for children and families in Crown Heights.

The funding will enable JCCGCI to continue its successful programming at long-standing partner schools while expanding services beginning this September to additional students and families.

Participating schools will include Lubavitcher Yeshiva – Crown Street, Associated Beth Rivkah Schools, Lubavitcher Yeshiva – Ocean Parkway, and Yeshiva Darchai Menachem, collectively benefiting nearly 300 children annually.

JCCGCI has proudly operated DYCD-funded after-school and summer programming at Associated Beth Rivkah Schools and United Lubavitcher Yeshiva/Crown Street in Crown Heights since 2012, providing generations of students with access to enriching educational, recreational, and youth-development opportunities in safe and supportive environments.

“We are profoundly grateful to the New York City Department of Youth and Community Development and to its new Commissioner, Hon. Sandra Escamilla-Davies, for the trust and confidence demonstrated through these significant COMPASS awards,” said Rabbi Moshe Wiener, Executive Director of JCCGCI.

“This investment will enable JCCGCI and our outstanding school partners to continue providing safe, enriching, and nurturing environments where children can strengthen academically, socially, and emotionally during the critical after-school hours.”

Rabbi Wiener also expressed appreciation to the program leadership team that helped build JCCGCI’s highly regarded model. “We are especially grateful to Mrs. Chanie Moskowitz and her dedicated team for designing, implementing and operating a unique, award-winning COMPASS model tailored to the needs of our communities — a model that has consistently earned praise and excellent performance evaluations from DYCD and other funding sources. JCCGCI remains deeply committed to expanding opportunities for children and families and helping every child develop the confidence, skills, and support necessary to thrive and succeed.”

JCCGCI’s after-school programs are designed to provide far more than childcare. Through COMPASS, participating students receive free access to academic support, homework assistance, recreation, arts and creative expression, sports, leadership development, cultural experiences, hands-on enrichment, and summer programming. These activities help students build confidence, strengthen friendships, explore new interests, and continue growing academically, socially, and emotionally beyond the regular school day.

The award will support both the COMPASS Elementary model (at Yeshiva Darchai Menachem) and SONYC — School’s Out NYC, COMPASS’s middle school model (at Beth Rivkah and Lubavitcher Yeshivos on Crown Street and Ocean Parkway).

COMPASS Elementary serves students from Kindergarten through fifth grade and supports the whole child through STEM learning, literacy integration, homework help, arts education, physical activity, and nutritional programming. Programs operate three hours per day, five days per week, including select school holidays, with continued services during the summer.

SONYC serves students in sixth through eighth grades through a club-based model that gives middle school students greater choice in how they spend their time while offering rigorous enrichment opportunities in sports, arts, leadership development, and educational trips throughout New York City. SONYC programs also operate three hours per day, five days per week during the school year, with summer services available at select locations.

The expansion comes at a time when families continue to seek high-quality, safe, structured, and enriching after-school opportunities for their children. JCCGCI’s programs provide essential support during the critical after-school hours, helping students remain engaged, supervised, and connected while strengthening academic performance, social-emotional development, and long-term educational success.

JCCGCI extends its sincere gratitude to DYCD, Commissioner Sandra Escamilla-Davies, participating schools, educators, program staff, families, and community partners whose collaboration makes this work possible. As these programs continue to grow, JCCGCI remains committed to creating supportive environments where children can learn, build confidence, discover new talents, and develop the tools they need for lifelong success.

JCCGCI’s Crown Heights initiatives include:
• Crown Heights Career Assessment Program – 835 vocational training scholarships awarded to Crown Heights residents, resulting in 1,355 job placements
• Crown Heights Career Hub – 458 residents trained, leading to 332 job placements
• Parnossah Employment Services Program – More than 500 Crown Heights residents placed into employment
• Workforce Development Program – 586 Crown Heights residents placed into jobs
• Beth Rivkah Teen Club After-School Program
• United Lubavitcher Yeshiva (Crown Street) After-School Program
• “Pioneers” Drama Camp at Beth Rivkah
• “Machane Heights” Biking Camp at United Lubavitcher Yeshiva (Crown Street)
• Crown Heights Mesivta Vocational Track – Serving approximately 130 students from Oholei Torah Mesivta, Chovevei Torah Mesivta, and B’nei Aliyah, helping each participant discover a path toward personal growth, dignity, vocational skills, and long-term success

For more information about JCCGCI’s programs and services, click here

Thousands Expected at Gracie Mansion Rally After Flatbush Demonstrations — Tuesday, May 26 at 7:00 PM

On Tuesday, May 26 at 7:00 PM, New Yorkers from across the city are expected to gather outside Gracie Mansion for a rally protesting what organizers describe as rising extremism, antisemitism, and intimidation targeting Jewish communities throughout New York City.

The rally, organized by End Jew Hatred, comes in response to last week’s anti-Israel demonstrations in Brooklyn’s Flatbush neighborhood, where protesters marched outside a synagogue hosting an Israeli real estate event. Demonstrators reportedly waved Hezbollah flags, displayed Hamas-linked symbols, and chanted slogans including “Intifada Revolution” and “Zionism will fall.”

The protests outside the Young Israel of Midwood synagogue escalated into confrontations with police, leading to multiple arrests. Videos circulating online showed chaos in the streets and a young Jewish girl being assaulted during the demonstrations.

Organizers say the rally will unite Jewish, Christian, Hindu, and Muslim leaders against extremism and political violence.

Featured speakers are expected to include:

● Sid Rosenberg – WABC Radio host

● Brooke Goldstein – Founder of End Jew Hatred and The Lawfare Project

● Zach Sage Fox – Activist and content creator

● Anila Ali – Muslim Zionist activist and President of AMMWEC.org

● Mazi Pilip – Nassau County Legislator

● Simon Deng – Sudanese Christian activist

● Pankaj Mehta – Hindus for Universal Human Rights

● Dr. Bill Donohue – President of the Catholic League

● Lizzy Savetsky – Influencer and activist

● Jayne Zirkle – End Jew Hatred

● Ghazal Mizrahi – Singer and activist

● Rabbi Daniel Schonbuch – Rabbi, psychotherapist, and host of the Viktor Frankl Podcast

Organizers say the event is meant to send a message that New Yorkers of all backgrounds must stand together against intimidation, antisemitism, and extremist violence before it becomes normalized in the city.

The rally will take place Tuesday, May 26 at 7:00 PM outside Gracie Mansion in Manhattan. More information is available through the official event page.

We’re pleased to share a new episode of “Lemaan Yishmeu,” the weekly halacha podcast with Rabbi Yosef Yeshaya Braun, Mara D’asra, and member of the Crown Heights Beis Din, brought to you by AskTheRav.com in partnership with the Lemaan Yilmedu Halacha Institute.

Each week, Rabbi Braun addresses intriguing halachic questions on a wide range of practical topics – real questions that have come to his desk, along with his clear and insightful responses.

You can listen to the podcast on all major platforms, including Spotify, Apple Podcasts, 24Six Amazon Music and Pocket Casts

The podcast is also available at https://asktherav.com/podcast, where you can see extensive marei mekomos for each answer.

In this week’s episode, the topics discussed by Rabbi Braun include:

Neder to Hear Kiddush Only from Husband
If a woman committed to hear Kiddush only from her husband, does she need hataras nedarim when that’s not possible?
Does it make a difference whether the commitment was mental or verbal?
Can hataras nedarim for this purpose be done on Shabbos?
Transporting a Sefer Torah
May a Sefer Torah be taken out to a park for Krias HaTorah (e.g., for children to hear Aseres Hadibros)?
Does having ten people walk along with the Sefer Torah make it permitted?
What is the context of the Rebbe’s request for children to hear the Aseres Hadibros, and what is the proper way to fulfill it?
Eruv Tavshilin
Can a person appoint a Rov through a phone system as his shliach to make an eruv tavshilin on his behalf in case he forgets?
Does an eruv tavshilin need to be made with the person’s own food?
Does the host’s eruv tavshilin exempt guests who are eating over but sleeping elsewhere?
When do the guests need to be eating over to be included: on erev yom tov, on yom tov, or on Shabbos? What should the guests do practically?
Kesubah Design
Is it proper to use the pasuk “Ani l’dodi v’dodi li” in a kesubah design?
Are decorative pesukim on a kesubah appropriate in general?
Is there a problem if the design makes the kesubah text hard to read?
Responsibility for Breaking a Laptop
A person was stretching in a beis midrash and accidentally knocked a laptop off a nearby shtender: what factors do we account for to decide whether he must pay for the damage?
Is a person ever not held responsible for absolute accidents?

On Tes-Sivan

The entire Sefer Tehillim by Eiga Bas Azriel on her yahrzeit

Her Matzeivah reads:

“Lovely people, I am all alone and left no children. Please light a candle and ask for my neshama. In this zechus, may Hashem bless you to live to see your children and their children in their old age with everything good. Amen.”

Bezrat Hashem, with heartfelt tefillah, the Tehillim Shliach will recite the entire Sefer Tehillim at the kever of Eigah bas Azriel asking Hashem for yeshuot in health, shidduchim, kids, happiness, parnassah, shalom bayit, and for every bracha your neshama needs, even those not yet revealed to you.There is a small fee for this service.

Chesed Shel Emes

Around a year ago i restored and uplifted the kever of Eiga Bas Azriel

And restored 350 Kvorim and Kivrei Tzaddikim as well

Right now, I’m working on a deeply meaningful project: repairing dozens of matzeivos of infants and young children, whose resting places deserve the same kavod as anyone else.

I restored kvorim of adults as well

Why I’m Asking for Your Help

I could not do it on my own

And i dedicating myself to this mission for three reasons

A broken or neglected matzeivah causes pain to the neshama.

This is chesed shel emes—true kindness with no expectation of reward.

When I restore a matzeivah, I bring a picture of it into the Ohel when I recite Tehillim. I believe this adds power to the tefillos I say on behalf of others.

Before COVID, my home was open almost year-round to guests. While our hachnosas orchim has scaled down to family and friends, I continue the same spirit of giving—now through restoring kevarim

Levi Piekarski

516-474-5846

[email protected]

The Tehillim Shliach will travel worldwide to any kever

PLEASE DONATE

This is for Chesed Shel Emes Meis Mitzvah purpose only

For Tehillim please first contact me 

Zelle: [email protected]

Cash app: 516-474-5846

Is this does not work then please try this one

Cash app: [email protected]

PayPal & Venmo: 516.474.5846

Credit or Debit card please call 516.474.5846

With the KSCVK “Knot Alone” auction taking place tomorrow night, attention is once again turning to the woman behind an organization that has helped countless couples throughout Crown Heights begin married life with dignity: Mrs. Devorah Benjamin.

For years, Mrs. Benjamin has become a trusted address for chossonim and kallos facing the overwhelming financial pressures that often come with planning a wedding. But what has made her impact so profound is not only the assistance itself, it’s the way it’s given.

Known throughout the community for her compassion, sensitivity, and discretion, Mrs. Benjamin has built KSCVK around a simple but powerful belief: that no couple should feel embarrassed while trying to build a home.

Those who have worked with her often speak not only about the support they received, but about the respect and dignity with which they were treated during one of the most stressful times in their lives.

That approach has become the heart of KSCVK’s mission, helping couples cover essential wedding expenses in the most thoughtful and dignified way possible.

Now, community members have the opportunity to support that mission through the “Knot Alone” auction while entering to win a wide range of incredible prizes.

The drawing takes place tomorrow, Monday, May 25th.

Tickets are available now at kscvk.org

https://collive.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/vid-20260524-wa0015.mp4

A 1-hour Kinus Torah marking Isru Chag Shavuos will take place at Anshei Lubavitch, located at 578 Albany Avenue in Crown Heights on Sunday night.

The evening will begin with Mincha at 7:15 p.m., followed by the Kinus Torah at 7:30 p.m. Maariv is scheduled for 8:45 p.m.

Featured speakers will include Crown Heights Beis Din Rov Rabbi Yosef Braun, Rov of Anshei Lubavitch Rabbi Yossi Garelik and Rabbi Nissim Lagziel.

Organizers noted that light refreshments will be served.

Raizel Blesofsky, (nee Laber) a young woman who grew up on Shlichus and was recently married, passed away on Friday night, Zayin Sivan, 5786.

She was 23.

She is survived by her husband, Yisroel Blesofsky, son of Rabbi Yossi and Dina Blesofsky, shluchim to Queens, New York.

Please Daven for Tinok hacohen Ben Raizel.

She is also survived by her parents, Rabbi Avraham and Nechama Dina Laber, shluchim to Southern Rensselaer County, NY, and siblings, Chaya Shepherd, Chana Wells, Azriel Laber, Shaina Shemtov (her twin sister), Rivkah Laber, Mendel Laber, Schneur Laber, Yehudah Laber, Baruch Laber, Yosef Laber.

She is also survived by her grandparents, Daniella Wasserman Katzenberg of Montreal and Shmuel and Gittel Laber.

The levaya will take place Sunday, passing 770 at 1:30 pm and arriving at Montefoire cemetery at 2:30 pm.

The family will be sitting Shiva near the ohel today at 120-55 229st until 10 pm

Shiva will continue at the Laber Home
5 Upper Mannix Rd.
East Greenbush NY 12061

Shachris at 10 a.m
Shiva hours 10 a.m -1pm & 5-9 pm

Baruch Dayan Ha’emes.

Rabbi Sholom Ber Schapiro, Director of the Nissan Mindel Publications (NMP), presents “Historic Treasures.”

Each program shares ‘treasures’ from the archives of Rabbi Schapiro’s father-in-law, Rabbi Dr. Nissan Mindel OBM, a prolific writer who served as a personal secretary of the 6th and 7th Chabad Rebbes.

The program uncovers fascinating stories, rare artifacts and precious documents from the Chabad-Lubavitch movement.

VIDEO:

By COLlive reporter

Mrs. Mindy Halberstam, a resident of Crown Heights who merited to have a close connection to Rebbetzin Chaya Mushka Schneerson OBM, passed away on Thursday, Erev Shavuos, 5786.

She was 77.

Mrs. Halberstam (nee Wolghemut) was born in Milan, Italy, to a frum Jewish family. As a child, she grew close to Lubavitch when she began attending the educational programs organized by Shluchim Rabbi Gershon Mendel Garelik OBM and his wife Mrs. Bassie Garelik.

In 5730 (1970), she married Rabbi Chaim Baruch Halberstam, a Lubavitcher who is a descendant of Rabbi Chaim Halberstam, founder of the Sanz Chassidic dynasty.

Before their wedding in Italy, the couple merited to have a yechidus with the Rebbe. R’ Chaim Boruch, who founded WLCC, which documented daily life with the Rebbe, naturally recorded the conversation for posterity.

AUDIO: Yechidus of R’ Chaim Baruch and his wife Mindy Halberstam

For her wedding, Mrs. Mindy Halberstam received a special gift from the Rebbetzin, wife of the Rebbe: a silver fruit bowl and two silver candlesticks for her Shabbat candles. Along with the gift, the Rebbetzin sent a letter filled with blessings.

“It seemed only natural to me that we would be invited to the Rebbetzin’s home,” she recalled in an interview with the Kfar Chabad magazine.

Her rare access stemmed from her husband’s unique role as a mashbak (attendant) in the home of the Rebbe and Rebbetzin at 1304 President Street, where he assisted with whatever was needed.

“Sadly, I didn’t realize back then what a tremendous privilege it was,” Mrs. Halberstam admitted. “I remember when Mrs. Garelik of Milan heard that I had been inside the Rebbetzin’s house, she was amazed and confided that she herself had never been there.”

As time went on, the Halberstams began bringing their children to visit the Rebbetzin, who delighted in holding and playing with them when they were babies.

“One Simchas Torah, my husband suggested that I go visit the Rebbetzin, noting that she was likely home alone while the Rebbe was with the chassidim at 770,” she shared. “So, I set out with my stroller and two children, and knocked on the back door.

The Rebbetzin was overjoyed by our arrival. For over an hour, she played with the children using a small ball she had, marveling at them. Her pure, visible happiness brought us back the following year—this time with three children—and it quickly blossomed into an annual tradition.”

Mrs. Halberstam was a sincere, Chasidishe woman, devoted to the Rebbe’s inyanim, and was very involved in Mivtzoim.

She is survived by her husband, Rabbi Chaim Baruch, their children Rabbi Yosef Yitzchak Halberstam – Yerushalayim, Rabbi Sholom Ber Halberstam – Chicago, Mrs. Dini Gurary – Montreal, Mrs. Chanie Kramer – Merrick, NY; Mrs. Rivky Shifrin – Little Neck, Queens; Mrs. Chaya Evers – Amsterdam, Mrs. Divi Greisman – Florida and Mrs. Sara Paris; grandchildren.

The levaya will take place tomorrow, Sunday, passing by 770 at 2:00 pm, burial at Old Montefiore Cemetery at 3:30 pm.

Shiva at *Ohel Hachomesh at the Ohel*
120-43 226th St
Cambria Heights, NY
11411

Shacharis: 8:00 & 9:00 AM
Break: 12:00-1:30 PM
Mincha: 3:00 PM & 7:45 PM
Maariv – 9:00 pm
Please No visitors after 10:00pm.

Memories and condolences can be sent to [email protected]

Baruch Dayan Ha’emes.

Rabbonim and representatives of the CHK Crown Heights Kashrus organization recently visited dairy plants and food production facilities in New Jersey and Upstate New York as part of ongoing efforts to strengthen kashrus oversight and Cholov Yisroel production for the Crown Heights community and Chabad communities worldwide.

The visits focused on reviewing dairy manufacturing processes, monitoring production standards, and reinforcing the high level of supervision maintained by CHK at facilities producing kosher and Cholov Yisroel products.

Among the locations visited were facilities connected to Devash Farms & Brands, including Fresh & Healthy, Milan, and Slim-U.

Participating in the visits were Rabbi Yakov Osdoba, Rabbi Berel Levertov, and Rabbi Levi Goldzweig.

CHK representatives said the tours and inspections are part of continuous efforts to ensure the highest standards of kashrus supervision while supporting reliable Cholov Yisroel production for consumers around the world.

The visits also provided an opportunity to work closely with plant management and staff to review ongoing supervision procedures and maintain strong relationships with manufacturers producing kosher-certified products.

This week, Oholei Torah proudly hosted its annual MBP Chalukas Haprosim, celebrating the extraordinary accomplishments of the Cheder Talmidim who participated in this year’s Mishnayos and Tanya Baal Peh program as a Matana for the Rebbe’s birthday.

This year marked an especially ambitious milestone as the Yeshiva launched its “Double 70,000” campaign, setting a bold goal of two times 70,000 lines of Tanya Baal Peh and two times 70,000 lines of Mishnayos Baal Peh, totaling an unprecedented 280,000 line target in honor of 70 years of Oholei Torah.

In a remarkable display of dedication, all 964 Talmidim in the Cheder division participated in the Mivtza. Every single Talmid contributed, from younger boys completing a few lines to older Talmidim mastering entire Perakim and Masechtos Baal Peh.

The accomplishments were extraordinary. One Talmid completed the Entire Shisha Sidrei Mishna, while another completed two full Sedarim.

In total, 2,244 Perakim of Tanya were learned Baal Peh with 64 Talmidim completed 12 Perakim of Tanya Baal Peh B’Vas Achas, alongside many others who mastered substantial portions throughout the year.

This year also saw tremendous growth in the Gemara Baal Peh program, with 84 Talmidim participating, far surpassing previous years. Together, they completed over 626 Blatt Gemara, totaling more than 32,000 lines of Gemara Baal Peh.

In addition to Mishnayos, Tanya, and Gemara, the Talmidim also participated in the Yedios Klolios program, designed to ensure that alongside their regular learning, they develop broad Torah knowledge and foundational Chassidishe concepts. The program included mastery of areas such as the names of the Masechtos, the order of the Parshiyos, important Tefillos and Brachos, and select sections of Chassidus.

Altogether, the Talmidim achieved an astounding total of over 452,000 lines of Torah memorized, earning nearly 700,000 MBP points.

A major highlight of this year’s program was the grand Chalukas Haprosim ceremony, where every participating Talmid received Seforim and prizes in recognition of his accomplishments. In total, over 2,200 sets of seforim were distributed, amounting to more than 6,300 volumes of Seforim.

Another exciting highlight was the special Rebbe Dollar raffle, generously sponsored by Rabbi Moshe Meshel Tzfasman. Over 51,000 raffle tickets were earned by the participating Talmidim. One fortunate Talmid, Tzvi Markowitz, was awarded a Rebbe Dollar in the presence of his father and grandfather, creating an emotional and memorable moment for all in attendance.

A tremendous hakaras hatov goes to the many testers, Rebbeim, and Menahalim whose dedication made the Mivtza possible. Special recognition is given to Rabbi Yaakov Dovid Gordon, who invested countless hours and helped elevate the program to unprecedented levels this year.

The program was emceed by Principals Rabbi Yossi Evers, Rabbi Eli Simpson, and Tzivos Hashem Base Commander Rabbi Mendel Levin, who distributed Seforim and awards to the highest achievers. Hundreds of proud parents and family members filled the ballroom to witness the inspiring ceremony and celebrate the remarkable accomplishments of the Talmidim.

The boys’ devotion to internalizing Torah Baal Peh is a shining example of Oholei Torah’s mission to raise proud Chassidishe Talmidim grounded in Yiras Shamayim, Ahavas HaTorah, and Hiskashrus to the Rebbe.

A special hakaras hatov is extended to Rabbi Mendel Levin, whose tireless dedication and leadership helped elevate this year’s program to unprecedented heights. In addition to his many responsibilities as Tzivos Hashem Base Commander, and overseeing numerous programs throughout the Yeshiva including Chidon, Shabbos Minyan, and Gan Menachem Cheder Division, he invested countless hours, energy, and attention into every detail of the Mivtza and Chalukas Haprosim, helping make it an unforgettable and deeply meaningful experience for the Talmidim.

A summary booklet was printed, given out in Yeshiva and distributed to the local Shuls, including each talmid who took part: View it here.

Photos: Tzvi Levenhartz/COLlive

Don’t forget to make an Eruv Tavshilin

Candle Lighting in Crown Heights:
Thursday: 7:54 PM
Friday night: At 7:55 PM from a pre-existing flame
Shabbos ends: 9:02 PM

This week’s Shalom Zachors:
Mendy and Mrs. Cohen: 829 Montgomery St (Between Albany and Troy Aves)
MM and Mrs. Tzikvashvili: 272 Kingston Ave (Between Lincoln Pl and Eastern Pkwy)
Yosef and Mrs. Malka: 1516 President St (Between Albany and Troy Aves)
Shraga and Mrs. Kazatchkov: 1531 Union St, 2nd Floor (Between Kingston and Albany Aves)

Kabolas HaTorah B’simcha Ub’pnimiyus!

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Crown Heights Shmira and the NYPD responded to a series of incidents in recent weeks, resulting in multiple arrests and several ongoing investigations.

Rock-Throwing attack on Bochur
A perpetrator was arrested for menacing on May 11 at approximately 12:45 AM after chasing a Bochur near Eastern Parkway and Albany Avenue while hurling rocks at him. Crown Heights Shmira responded and located the victim while the NYPD arrested the suspect. The perpetrator is the same individual arrested for the July 19, 2025 hate crime assault near 770 Eastern Parkway, in which he punched one victim in the face while shouting antisemitic slurs and threw a soda can at a second victim.

Persistent Burglar Arrested
A burglar was arrested 2 separate times in connection with the same property near Union Street and Albany Avenue. He was first caught inside the home on May 4 at approximately 1:00 PM and arrested. Undeterred, he returned on May 6 with the intention of breaking in again but fled before being apprehended. On May 9 at approximately 9:00 PM, Shmira received a call for a suspicious person in the area. Responding members identified the wanted suspect and observed him enter the property a third time. He was promptly arrested by the NYPD 71st Precinct.

Shoplifter Arrested
A shoplifter was arrested on May 8 at approximately 4:30 PM after stealing from a store near Empire Boulevard and New York Avenue. Crown Heights Shmira and the NYPD responded swiftly, locating and arresting the suspect.

Attempted Burglary
Shmira responded to a report of an attempted burglary near Rutland Road and Albany Avenue on May 6 at approximately 10:00 PM. Members searched the area extensively but the suspect had already fled. The NYPD filed a report.

Tefillin stolen from Shul
A pair of tefillin were stolen sometime between May 1 and May 2 from a shul near Empire Boulevard and Kingston Avenue. Anyone with information should contact Shmira at 718-221-0303.

Bicycle Thief Arrested
A wanted thief was arrested on May 1 at approximately 3:00 PM after a Shmira member on patrol recognized him near Kingston Avenue and East New York Avenue. The suspect was still in possession of the stolen bicycle at the time and was promptly arrested by the NYPD.

ADDITIONAL INCIDENTS FROM MARCH AND APRIL
The following incidents occurred in March and April and resulted in arrests following a response by Crown Heights Shmira and the NYPD.

Recidivist Thief Arrested A known suspect wanted for stealing from multiple homes was located and arrested near Montgomery Street and Schenectady Avenue on April 30.

Attempted Robbery A suspect was arrested on April 28 for attempted robbery and criminal mischief after grabbing and damaging a victim’s phone near St. Johns Place and Kingston Avenue.

Property Damage A suspect was arrested on April 20 after damaging property near Crown Street and Nostrand Avenue.

Known Burglar Arrested A known burglar who had recently returned to the area was wanted for a fresh burglary and theft. He was located and arrested near Schenectady Avenue and Montgomery Street on April 19.

Burglary Arrest Two suspects broke into a storage facility near Lefferts Avenue and Schenectady Avenue on April 17, making off with thousands of dollars worth of property. One of the burglars brazenly returned a second time, prompting a swift response from Shmira and the NYPD. Following a lengthy search, he was located and placed under arrest.

Order of Protection Violation A perpetrator was arrested near Kingston Avenue and Eastern Parkway on April 16 for violating an order of protection.

Assault With Stick A suspect who assaulted and injured a victim by striking him with a stick near Nostrand Avenue and Eastern Parkway was swiftly arrested on March 29.

Equipment Theft Two suspects were arrested on March 27 after stealing expensive equipment near President Street and Kingston Avenue.

DWI Crash Arrest A suspect was arrested for DWI on March 27 after crashing her car near Brooklyn Avenue and President Street.

Scooter Theft A suspect who stole an expensive scooter was tracked down and arrested near Sterling Street and New York Avenue on March 26.

Shul Sign Theft A perpetrator wanted for stealing a shul sign was located and arrested near Kingston Avenue and Lefferts Avenue on March 24.

Burglary Arrest A suspect who committed a burglary near Empire Boulevard and Troy Avenue on March 19 was arrested following a thorough investigation by Crown Heights Shmira and the NYPD.

Indecent Exposure A suspect who indecently exposed himself on Kingston Avenue was arrested on March 18.

Auto Parts Theft A perpetrator who attempted to steal auto parts near New York Avenue and Crown Street was arrested on March 17.

Please be aware of your surroundings. In case of an emergency, call 911 and Shmira 24/7 at 718-221-0303.

Yossi Weiss, a 14 Year Old Bochur from Miami Lakes, FL, started making a Parsha Minute to inspire other kids to learn about Parsha in a fun and creative way.

The videos contain a short message from the Parsha, narrated by Yossi and with input from his younger siblings Mirel, Shalom Ber and Roza Hinda.

https://collive.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/whatsapp-video-2026-05-20-at-8.54.47-pm.mp4

In preparation for Shavuos, the OTMC – Oholei Torah Mothers Committee brought a special hands-on activity to the Cheder classrooms, filling the Yeshiva with excitement and creativity.

Mothers visited the Pre1A – 5th Grade classrooms and joined the talmidim in decorating beautiful planters and planting colorful flowers together. The boys enthusiastically decorated, planted, and proudly prepared their creations to bring home in honor of Shavuos.

The Yeshiva extends heartfelt thanks to the OTMC for continually bringing meaningful and engaging programs to the talmidim and helping enhance the Yom Tov atmosphere with hands-on projects throughout Oholei Torah.

In this week’s Olam Hahalachah, Rabbi Mendel Prescott, Rosh Yeshiva of Machon Smicha, examines the halachic status of corporations and whether a company is considered a separate entity in halacha.

In the previous article, we discussed the status of stock ownership and whether it affects the halachic standing of a company — such as a bank — with regard to depositing, borrowing, or chometz ownership. Here we address a more fundamental question: what exactly is a company?

Virtually every major company today is a corporation. This means that it is regarded as a standalone legal entity distinct from its owners. Technically, no individual human being owns a corporation’s assets; the corporation itself is the owner. Shareholders own shares — contractual instruments that confer certain rights, such as voting and dividends — but the underlying assets belong to the corporation as a juridical person. How does halacha view this?

For background: the modern corporation traces its origins to the 1600’s, though at that stage the structure and legal implications of the corporate form had not yet fully crystallized. Over time, it evolved into what is known today as the “corporate veil” — the principle that a company and its owners are treated as entirely separate legal personalities.

One of the landmark rulings that firmly established this notion came about through a maneuver of a sharp Yiddishe kop, who proved to be a step ahead of his creditors in applying the newly developing legal structure.

Aron Salomon, a Jewish British boot manufacturer in the 1890s, operated his business as a sole proprietorship. At a certain point, he decided to incorporate his business as a legal corporation under the name “Salomon & Co. Ltd.” After that, the company took on significant loans in order to expand operations. But Mr. Salomon had structured the incorporation in a clever way. After he had formed the corporation, he “sold” his business, which had been his personal property till then, to the newly created corporate entity. The sale was on credit, and he, acting on the corporation’s behalf, assigned business assets as security for the payment owed to him by the corporation. At the time, this move was a strange one: how could one owe money to oneself?

Before long, the business failed, and the creditors came to collect. But Salomon came as well, claiming that he too was a creditor of the business, and stood in a senior position because his claim was secured by collateral. The creditors were incensed and argued that the entire arrangement was a sham. “Salomon & Co.”, they contended, was merely Aron Salomon under another name.

The lower courts ruled in favor of the creditors, reflecting what seemed to be the straightforward common-sense view. But the matter ultimately reached the House of Lords (the UK’s highest court) and they ruled decisively in Salomon’s favor. He was paid ahead of the other creditors, leaving them with little or nothing. In doing so, the court gave enduring legal force to the principle that a corporation is indeed a separate entity.[1]

Before turning to the halachic side, it is important to pause and appreciate how radical the concept of a corporation truly is. When a corporation is formed, the law declares that a new “person” has come into existence. That legal person can own property, enter contracts, sue and be sued, incur debts, and even commit crimes, entirely independently of the human beings who formed it or who own its shares. The corporation is not the shareholders, not the directors, and not the employees, but a separate legal being.

If one were to fully accept the existence of a corporate entity in halachic terms, many business-related halachic issues would become far simpler. Chametz, Shabbos, ribbis, and issurei hana’ah—among the common halachic barriers —would be less of an issue. It would be like a non-Jew—or, more precisely, a non-human legal being—owned and operated the business, while Jews held only residual claims or financial stakes.

Yet when viewed through halachic lens, the matter is far less simple. In halacha, an item not owned by any person is hefker. Accordingly, most poskim maintain that a corporation – the way law defines it – does not exist.[2] And since its assets are certainly not hefker, the corporation is the property of its shareholders. “Corporation,” in halachic terms, is simply a legal name assigned to a collection of assets and business activities that are owned by people.

There is, yet, a shittah that even halacha can recognize the existence of a self-standing entity. The Rogatchover Gaon,[3] in his distinctive approach, maintains this position. One of his examples is the property of the tzibbur, which is not hefker; it is owned, yet not personally owned by individuals. It belongs to a distinct entity called tzibbur, with the individual members serving as beneficiaries.

According to this, the members of a corporation—even where there is only a sole member—would not be the direct owners, and many halachic problems would be significantly reduced. This doesn’t mean that everything would automatically be permitted l’maaseh, since issurei derabbanan may still apply.[4] It would, however, open the door to some level of leniency.

Even according to the conventional view — that a corporation constitutes regular ownership — its legal structure nonetheless has halachic ramifications for ribbis. One of the defining features of a corporation is that the liability of its owners is limited, as demonstrated in the Salomon & Co story where the debts were imposed on the corporation and not upon Aron Salomon personally.

The poskim explain that this feature has halachic grounds through the principle of apoteki. The Gemara[5] discusses cases in which a borrower designates a particular asset as collateral, similar to a mortgaged property, giving the lender exclusive rights in that asset. A more specific form is apoteki mefurash, where the borrower stipulates, “You may collect only from this asset,” in which case the lender may collect only from the designated asset; and if that asset is lost or damaged, the lender has no further recourse. According to these poskim, corporate debt may be understood in these terms: the debt is real, but it is subject to an apoteki mefurash, namely, the assets of the company alone.

This creates a kulah for ribbis, as many poskim maintain that a loan secured only by an apoteki mefurash is not subject to ribbis de’oraysa. The reason is that the essence of a loan is the existence of personal indebtedness—shibud haguf. A non-recourse loan holds no shibud haguf, only shibud nechasim, and is therefore not classified as a genuine halva’ah. There are numerous examples throughout Perek Eizehu Neshech where ribbis is permitted when the principal itself remains at risk, such as in cases of mashkanta[6] and pardeisa.[7]

Rav Shimon Greenfeld[8] follows this approach and strongly maintains that lending to a corporation. He goes further and suggests that it may even be permitted miderabbanan as well—not because the shareholders do not own the company, but because they bear no personal liability.[9] He adds that the wording of the passuk supports this: “Lo sashich l’achicha”—to your brother—implying a personal loan to your brother, rather than a claim limited solely to his assets. Rav Moshe Feinstein[10] follows this line of reasoning and seems to permit lending to a corporation even miderabbanan.

The most prominent approach appears to be the middle-ground shittah: there is no ribbis de’oraysa, but there does remain an issur ribbis derabbanan. The Minchas Yitzchak[11] to assume this position, along with many other poskim.

Rav Yaakov Blau, in Bris Yehuda,[12] takes the opposite extreme. In his view, even though the loan is backed only by company assets, ribbis de’oraysa still applies. It remains a full-fledged loan to the members of the corporation, who are considered to owe the money, and the fact that the loan is tied to an apoteki mefurash does not alter its status. Nevertheless, he concludes that since many great poskim hold that there is no ribbis de’oraysa, one may rely on that view.

The practical difference between treating the matter as de’oraysa or derabbanan emerges in situations where there are additional tzeirufim l’kulah (e.g., when the majority shareholders are non-Jews). For an issur de’oraysa it would be far more difficult to rely on such leniencies, whereas for a derabbanan, the basis for leniency is stronger.

It should be emphasized that the kulah of apotaki applies only to depositing money in an interest-bearing account. Borrowing from a Jewish-owned bank remains prohibited, since the borrower bears personal liability toward the corporation, which is the property of its members.[13]

Likewise, other halachic concerns — such as chametz, issurei hana’ah, or Shabbos — are not resolved through this approach, since it maintains that a corporation remains an ordinary partnership. The only distinction is the lack of personally liability – which only helps for ribbis. Other kulos may apply – but the “corporate veil” itself is of no avail.

Rav Moshe Sternbuch[14] offers an interesting twist which can work for other halachic issues as well. Like the other poskim, he holds that a separate entity cannot exist, but he derives a kulah from that. He suggests that when one purchases stock in a corporation, since the company itself has no halachic existence, one has not truly purchased anything tangible at all; in a sense, one has purchased only air. Accordingly, the money paid remains a loan to the members of the company. Thus, for example, if the company deals in chametz, there would be no issue of bal yeira’eh, since the shareholders never truly acquired ownership of shares in a halachically operative sense. This would hold true regarding ribbis issues as well. But he concludes that this sevara alone, while good for limud zchus, is not strong grounds for real hetter. (In the previous article, we discussed some leniencies regarding the ownership status of small share-holders.)

[1] מעשה זו מובא בכל ספרי החוקים של דיניהם. גם הרב משה שטרנבוך (מועדים וזמנים חלק ג סימן רסט בהגה) מביא את כל המעשה בתוך אריכות דיונו בהגדרת חברת בע”מ.

[2] לדוגמה, ראה לשונו של הג”ר אלחנן וסרמן (בקובץ נועם ג’): “ועל הרוצים לחדש דחברה בע”מ הוא מעין בעלות חדשה, בעלות ולא בעלות, עליהם הראיה מהש”ס לגדר כזה, ועצם אי-מציאות הדברים בש”ס אינו נותן מקום כל דהו להסתפק,”

[3] בשו”ת צפנת פענח חלק ב (סימן קפד). וכדאי להעתיק לשונו: “והנה גדר באנק לא נקרא דבר מסויים, רק דבר של צורה לא חומר, כי גם מי שיש להם באנק הם אינם משועבדים לעצמם…”

[4] שכך מסיים הצפנת פענח: “לכן אין זה רבית בבאנק על פי דין תורה.” משמע שלא בא להתיר לגמרי.

[5] מסכת גיטין (מא ,א)

[6] מסכת בבא מציעא (סז, ב)

[7] שם (עג, א)

[8] שו”ת מהרש”ג חלק יורה דעה חלק א (סימן ג, וסימן ה)

[9] בשו”ת מנחת יצחק חלק ג (סימן א, אות ג) מפקפק אם אכן היתה כוונת המהרש”ג לפרסם זה ההיתר למעשה. וטען שחלק זה של התשובה נשאר רק בכת”י, עיין דבריו.

[10] אגרות משה יורה דעה חלק ב (סימן סג)

[11] חלק ג (סימן א)

[12] סוף פרק ז (ראה באריכות בהערות שם)

[13] כ”כ כל הפוסקים שדיברו בענין זה. גם באגרות משה (שם ד”ה “אבל טעם זה”) מבאר זה בפשיטות.

[14] מועדים וזמנים חלק ג (סימן רסט, בהגה)

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The Yomtov of Shavuos this week celebrates the Jewish people receiving the Torah on Har Sinai. Central among its observance is the reading of the Aseres Hadibros (Ten Commandments).

The Rebbe stressed that every effort should be made to bring all Jewish children, girls, boys and even infants, to Shul to hear the Aseres Hadibros, just like in the desert.

Minyonim for Aseres Hadibros will be held in the following 13 locations around Crown Heights, and beyond, to allow all men, women and children to attend.

Friday, the first day of Shavuos; 6 Sivan, May 22.

770 Main Shul:
9:00 AM, 12:45 PM, 1:30 PM, 2:00 PM, 5:00 PM, 6:30 PM, 7:50 PM

Anshei Lubavitch
578 Albany Ave, 1:00 pm and 4:30 PM

Nosson’s Shul
579 Brooklyn Avenue, 1:00 PM

Lubavitch Yeshiva
570 Crown Street, 1:30 PM

Agudah Shul
456 Crown Street, 4:30 PM

Anshei Moshe
1334 Lincoln Place, 4:30 PM

Beis Menachem Mendel
770 Lefferts Ave, 4:30 PM

Rei’im Ahuvim
1614 Carroll Street, 4:30 PM

Frankel Shul
1699 President Street, 4:30 PM

Yeshiva Reines
417 Troy Avenue, 4:30 pm

Empire Shtibel
489 Empire Blvd, 5:15 PM

Lubavitch Remsen Village
305 Remsen Ave, 1:00 pm

Lubavitch of East Flatbush
460 Lenox Road, 11:45 am

No Child Left At Home

At the Giving of the Torah exactly 3335 years ago, every man, woman and child stood at the foot of the mountain to hear the voice of G-D.

On the holiday of Shavuot we gather together in Shul, especially including the smallest children, to hear the 10 commandments being read and receive the Torah anew.

WATCH more about the Rebbe’s Ten Commandments campaign at:
https://jemtv.page.link/Gii7

Video: The Rebbe speaks about the importance of men, women and children attending the reading of Aseres Hadibros on Shavuos

Following the tremendous success of Tahalucha over Pesach, organizers are now preparing for an even greater Tahalucha this Shavuos.

With over 250 shuls scheduled to be visited, and many who were away for Pesach now back in New York, even larger participation is expected this Yom Tov.

“Tahalucha is expected to reach thousands of Yidden in communities throughout New York,” said Rabbi Yosef Y. Butman, who heads the Tahalucha office at the Lubavitch Youth Organization.

In honor of Tahalucha, a special kuntres containing a collection of sichos and answers from the Rebbe has been published.

The kuntres was organized by Rabbi Yosef Goldwasser of the LYO Tahalucha office. It was prepared to encourage and inspire Anash to participate, and to assist organizers and participants with schedules, locations, maps, and other important information to help ensure a well-organized Tahalucha.

The kuntres was published l’iluy nishmas Rabbi Shmuel Menachem Mendel Butman ע”ה, Director of the Central Lubavitch Youth Organization, who dedicated many years to organizing Tahalucha with great devotion.

Organizers ask that all groups please walk together and carefully follow the provided guidelines.

Special police escorts have been arranged, everyone is asked to fully cooperate with and follow the police department’s instructions.

Organizers especially thank the NYPD for their ongoing assistance in all matters related to the different walks.

As an indication of the great importance the Rebbe placed on Tahalucha, it is noteworthy that over the years the Rebbe would come out as the Tahalucha departed, and in later years, also upon its return.

When we work together with achdus and proper organization, we can iy”H bring about unprecedented hatzlacha.

On Yom Tov night, downstairs in 770, memunim from the LYO Tahalucha office, led by Rabbi Shmuly Butler, will be available to answer questions and assist with any arrangements regarding shuls, speakers, or any other Tahalucha-related matters.

Tahalucha organizers extend their heartfelt thanks to Anash and all the speakers for their help and cooperation. A special yasher koach is extended to the Vaad of Tzach, Rabbi Kasriel Kastel, and Rabbi Shlomo Friedman of the Lubavitch Youth Organization.

Please find the special kuntres attached. We encourage everyone to review it carefully and familiarize themselves with all the necessary information for the upcoming Tahalucha. We hope you find inspiration in the Kuntres and participate in the Tahalucha while inspiring others to do the same. Together we can make the Tahalucha the success it deserves to be.

Wishing everyone a gut yom tov and Kabbolas HaTorah b’simcha u’bipnimiyus.

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For the first time in nearly a decade, the sound of Torah learning once again echoed through the halls of FCI Fort Dix in New Jersey.

Earlier this month, the Aleph Institute brought its flagship Yeshiva in Prison Program to the largest federal correctional facility in the country. For two transformative days, 15 incarcerated Jewish men immersed themselves in intense chavrusa learning, inspiring shiurim, heartfelt tefillah, spirited singing, and meaningful conversations alongside visiting rabbinical students and chaplains.

For those 48 hours, a federal prison was transformed into a living, breathing beit midrash.

For many participants, the experience served as a profound spiritual awakening. Chaplain Chanania Steinmetz, who helped facilitate the program at Fort Dix, shared one interaction that deeply moved him: “There was one man who didn’t seem too engaged that first day,” he recalled. “But when the program finished, he confessed: ‘I honestly didn’t think I would care to hear what the bochurim had to say… but this felt so different. I felt like I was truly able to receive from them and genuinely benefit from this.'”

Steinmetz continued: “As Chassidus teaches, even a small amount of light can push away tremendous darkness. Bringing Torah anywhere is powerful. But bringing it into a place filled with struggle, loneliness, and pain can become a true lifeline for people searching for hope and meaning.”

Ben*, incarcerated at a federal prison in Florida, had participated in a past Yeshiva in Prison program. “The program gave us the opportunity to step outside the prison walls—at least spiritually; there’s still that darn fence!” he said. “These volunteers were so compassionate, knowledgeable, and made it feel as though the experience was just as meaningful for them as it was for us.”

Another participant reflected: “Hashem blessed us mightily the whole time… but what I enjoyed most was the ‘air of togetherness’ I felt with my fellow Jews.”
For many incarcerated individuals who have spent years feeling forgotten, isolated, or spiritually disconnected, the Yeshiva in Prison program serves as a powerful reminder: there is still a community beyond the concrete walls—and they are still very much a part of it.

Behind every program comes months of careful coordination. Rabbi Yossi Cohen, Director of Religious Education at Aleph, worked closely with Chaplain Steinmetz to bring the Fort Dix program to life—recruiting the bochurim, preparing the learning, and navigating the logistics of running a two-day immersive yeshiva inside a federal facility. “Putting together a program like this is no small undertaking,” he shared. “Recruiting a group of bochurim willing to give their time, coordinating every detail with the chaplain, preparing the learning—it all takes real effort. But the moment you walk into the room and hear the Torah being learned, and then hear the participants share what it meant to them, every bit of the preparation becomes worth it. It’s also why we’re always looking for more bochurim to join us.”

“Every single time we conclude a Yeshiva in Prison program, the first question we hear is: ‘When are you coming back? Can we do this every week?’” says Rabbi Aaron Lipskar, CEO of the Aleph Institute. “For individuals who may feel written off by society or distant from their Judaism, this program sends a clear message: You still matter. And your soul still has infinite value.”

On Shavuot, we’re reminded how the Torah belongs to every Jew, regardless of circumstance, background, or where they may find themselves.

And thanks to Aleph, sometimes that light shines brightest behind prison walls.
To learn more about the Aleph Institute or explore volunteer opportunities, visit https://aleph-institute.org/volunteer/

By Mendel Super – Chabad.org

Under the rural northwestern Arizona scorching sun, I trekked through the dusty red rows of the cemetery, looking for a grave with no name.

The investigator had told me that the deceased person I was looking for rested at the end of a row in the county section. I walked past Jane and John Does, a small marker of one Ira Lebowitz, who passed away in 1997, and other indigent burials in the county section of Mountain View Cemetery in Kingman. I paused for a moment at one marker with some Matchbox cars placed on it, a memory, I assumed, of a little boy.

Then I found her.

Jane Doe 89-4351

Found 11.24.1989

I recited some Psalms, likely the first time Jewish prayers were said at her resting place, noting that the silence of the vast desert belies the secrets beneath its surface.

What was I doing here?

Let me explain: I’m the only rabbi in Mohave County, Arizona, the fifth largest county in the country geographically, but isolated and sparsely populated. We’ve been here since 2022, when my wife, Itta, and I moved to the county’s largest city, Lake Havasu City, to open the first Chabad center in the region. Today, Jews from Havasu, Kingman, Bullhead City and the smaller towns in between are active in the Jewish community. The city’s former Reform temple is now home to Chabad of Lake Havasu City.

Early on, I found myself occupied with what Judaism calls a meit mitzvah. The Torah teaches that it is a mitzvah of the highest order to ensure that a fellow Jew with no family is given a full Jewish burial and dignity in death.

Maimonides explains that even the High Priest, who was prohibited from attending his own family’s funerals, was required to take it upon himself to personally bury a meit mitzvah, an abandoned Jewish body that had no one to attend to its proper burial.

Now, I was involved in yet another case, but one I’d never expected.

On a Friday in 1989, the day after Thanksgiving, a couple walking their dog in the desert made a gruesome discovery in the brush just over a mile off the highway south of Kingman. It was a body. Deputies from the Mohave County Sheriff’s Office arrived and found that it was a woman. Markings in the dirt indicated a scuffle, and foot tracks showed she had been dragged to the area where she was discovered. A single tire mark was also evident.

The autopsy revealed she was between 25-30, and had been brutally beaten to death. Besides the red nail polish on her fingers and toes, her earrings, and a handmade blouse and sunglasses found several days later in the brush, investigators had little to go on. Newspaper reports and law enforcement bulletins provided no meaningful leads. Fingerprints, difficult to obtain from her body by that point, brought no hits from state and national databases.

And so for decades, the young woman with blonde hair remained known only as Mohave County Jane Doe, resting in a grave at the edge of the cemetery. All that was known about her sat in a box on a shelf at the sheriff’s office.

But in recent months, there was a breakthrough in the long-cold case. Genetic work done by a Texas lab showed that her DNA indicated she was 96 percent Ashkenazi Jew, the daughter of two Jewish parents. Her profile is now being studied by investigative genetic genealogists at New Jersey’s Ramapo College, who will try to build her family tree and discover her name.

Ashkenazi heritage is particularly difficult to work with because the population pool is so limited, explained Adina Newman, one of the few investigative genetic genealogists who specializes in Ashkenazi DNA, when I reached out to her. The challenges are compounded by law enforcement’s limited access to databases. Authorities can only access GEDMatch and Family Tree DNA platforms, and only view trees of users who opt-in to law enforcement access, something she says many people are wary of.

After reading a press release from the Mohave County Sheriff’s Office, I reached out to Sheriff Doug Schuster, a friend of our community. The sheriff put me in touch with the lead investigator of the cold case unit, Lori Miller. I met with her and told her I’d do anything I could do to help.

“For the first time in six years of working on this case, I’m optimistic,” the investigator told me.

We discussed some new theories, and with the help of ZAKA, an Israel-based international organization that works to identify and recover the remains of Jews killed in terrorist attacks and accidents, we were able to send the fingerprints to Israeli authorities.

There is more work that needs to be done, and I share this story with the hope that someone reading it might be able to help.

First off, if you have a family member or know of a young woman who disappeared in 1989, please reach out to the Mohave County Sheriff’s office (or Chabad of Lake Havasu, if you’re more comfortable). Second, please consider uploading your DNA profile to GEDMatch to give investigators more Ashkenazi DNA to work with and help build Jane’s family tree.

The upcoming holiday of Shavuot, which begins on Thursday night, May 21, and ends on Saturday evening, teaches that the Torah was given to the Jewish people only when they stood together “as one people with one heart” at the foot of Mount Sinai.

Six hundred thousand Jews stood at Sinai when the Torah was given. The Zohar teaches that each soul represents one letter of the 600,000 letters of the Torah scroll. If even one letter is missing, a Torah scroll is incomplete. The Jewish people are one big family. And as long as one of its daughters is lying in the desert, her name a mystery, it is incomplete.

Perhaps you can help.

Chabad.org

An Eruv Tavshilin is a halachic device which allows one to cook food on the Festival for use on the Shabbat that immediately follows.

To allow one to cook on the Festival for use on Shabbat, one must prepare an eruv tavshilin which serves as a reminder that the cooking done on the Festival is for Shabbat only.

This eruv consists of a matzah and something cooked, for example, a boiled egg or a piece of fish, and is prepared before the onset of the Festival.

It symbolically serves as the beginning of the preparation of food for Shabbat. Thus, any subsequent cooking done on the Festival is considered to be a continuation of the preparation begun before the Festival.

If the last day of the Festival falls on a Shabbat, one must prepare an eruv tavshilin on Thursday afternoon before the festival begins so that one can cook on the Festival for Shabbat.

How to make an Eruv Tavshilin

Take a plate with one whole matzah and either a piece of cooked fish, cooked meat or a hard-boiled egg on it, (it is a good idea to wrap the matzah/challah and fish, meat or egg in aluminum foil to easily keep them apart from the rest of the foods in your home). Recite the following blessing:

BA-RUCH A-TAH ADO-NAI E-LO-HE-NU ME-LECH HA-OLAM ASHER KID-E-SHA-NU BE-MITZ-VO-TAV VETZI-VA-NU AL MITZVAT ERUV.

Then recite: “By virtue of this Eruv, we (the members of this household), shall be permitted to cook, bake, keep food warm, carry, light candles and do all preparations on Yom Tov for Shabbat.”

Put the foods you used for the Eruv away, and eat them on Shabbat. NOTE: The Eruv Tavshilin allows you to cook on Friday only for Shabbat, it does not allow you to cook from one day of the holiday to the next (ie: Thursday for Friday). It is permissible to cook only from a pre-existent flame, one that was lit before the onset of the Holiday on Thursday before sunset.

Even if you do not intend to cook food for Shabbos during Yom Tov, you must nevertheless prepare an eiruv tavshilin on Erev Yom tov and recite the appropriate blessing over it in order to be permitted to light Shabbos candles while it is still Yom Tov.

If you are being hosted as a guest during Yom Tov, ask a Rav regarding the permissibility of relying on your host’s eiruv tavshilin.

What is the fundamental role of a Jew? In the aftermath of Shavuos, when the highest light of Torah was revealed, how can we as a nation strengthen our identity? The Avner Institute presents a thoughtful letter to philanthropist Mel (Mordechai) Landow, who merited a unique and longstanding relationship with the Rebbe, where the latter’s analogy to Divine service as a “groundbreaking” event stresses the performance of good deeds, through which the Jewish soul is uncovered, like a hidden gift, and refined. With special thanks to Rabbi Akiva Nussbaum for the letter.

In loving memory of Hadassah Lebovic A”h

“The Nature of the Jewish People”

By the Grace of G-d
Rosh Chodesh Sivan 5733
Brooklyn, NY

Mr. Mordechai Shoel Landow
4340 North Bay Road
Miami Beach, FL 33140

Greeting and Blessing:

Thank you very much for your letter and for the bound volume of your latest book Your People are Your Business, topping off the gratifying reports about the Groundbreaking.

It is surely unnecessary to dwell at length on the significance of the Groundbreaking event in terms of what it means for our young generation in Miami and environs, as you so aptly interpreted it. According to my informants, your speech was impressive and well received. I hope and pray that the words spoken and the enthusiasm engendered will evolve into actual deeds, for it is action that really counts, especially in the area of Torah, called Toras Chayim, so termed because it is the Jew’s practical guide in the daily life in this world of action, thereby making life worthy of being called “life” (not just “existence”).

The emphasis on action is brought home to us particularly in these days of preparation for Mattan Torah. For the first word of acceptance of the Torah by all our people, in complete unanimity, was na’aseh—“we will do.” The fact that it was enunciated at a moment of the greatest spiritual elation makes it all the more significant. It is a clear instruction for each and all of us not to let ourselves be carried away by enthusiasm alone, but immediately translate it into the reality of tangible deeds. Which is why a Jew begins his day not with lengthy contemplation or meditation, but with actual doing mitzvoth. Indeed, Kabbolas haTorah (our receiving the Torah) is a daily experience, which is also the reason why one of the earlier Morning Blessings is to thank G-d for having chosen us from all peoples, to give us His Torah, the benediction concluding in the continuous present tense (“Giver of the Torah”). And since we receive the Torah every day, it is only right that we start the day with na’aseh. But, of course, on the anniversary of our receiving the Torah at Sinai, on Shavuos, the principle of na’aseh (before v’nishma) is the focal point, the very soul, of Kabbolas haTorah, from which we draw renewed vitality and strength throughout the year.

Sacred Ground

I would also like to take this opportunity of referring to the idea of Groundbreaking – in the light of the teaching of the Ba’al Shem Tov that everything in a Jew’s experience should serve as a stimulus in avodas haShem [service to G-d].

“Groundbreaking” seems to be an American innovation, for traditionally it is rather the “laying of the cornerstone” that was celebrated in such cases, to which there is reference also in Tanach. Yet since Groundbreaking has become a legitimate and useful initiation of a Torah institution, it can be very instructive. For one thing, digging up a piece of earth for a sacred purpose can be thought-provoking – if we stop to think how a small piece of matter contains a tremendous amount of (atomic) energy which, if used constructively, can achieve so much for humanity.

More close to home, and specifically relating to further teachings of the Ba’al Shem Tov and of Chassidus, is the thought which Groundbreaking evokes in relation to human endeavor in general, and spiritual advancement in particular. For, in order to achieve full-out productivity, an individual must often begin with breaking his outer shell or crust (formed by habits, natural dispositions, environmental influences, etc.), so as to release the tremendous inner powers and resources, which are infinitely greater than those on the surface, and, more importantly, are infinitely more stable and durable, since they are closer to the individual’s self and are anchored in the essence of the soul itself.

Finally, “Groundbreaking” is particularly symbolic of the nature of the Jewish people, called by G-d “desirable earth.” As the Ba’al Shem Tov explained it: Just as the earth is the repository of the greatest natural treasures and resources, so incalculable are the treasures with which G-d has endowed every Jew, His own “desirable land.”

Being permitted to “state only part of one’s deserving praise in one’s face,” I will say only that, while I never doubted the hidden potentialities which you possess, it has been very gratifying to see their emergence into the open, particularly as reflected in your activities since our personal meeting, leading up to the Groundbreaking. I am confident that these are the forerunners of further discoveries and revelations of hidden treasures which you will put to good use, in a growing measure, with G-d’s help. The zechus horabim [merit of our Forefathers] will additionally stand you in good stead.

Wishing you and yours a joyous and inspiring Yom Tov of Kabbalos haTorah, and to receive the Torah with joy and inwardness.

[signature]

P.S. I was, of course, especially to hear that your wife and children were present at the Groundbreaking. Their presence must have surely strengthened the involvement of all participants, including commitment to the principle advocated by the title of your book, namely, that Your People – the Jewish people – should truly be Your Business.

To receive to your email inbox: [email protected]

It was Erev Shavuos, 5750 (1990). In Eretz Yisrael, Yom Tov was moments away. And then, a message came from the Rebbe.

The Rebbe sent a clear and urgent instruction: Reestablish the Chevras Tehillim at Kever Dovid HaMelech, and preferably before Shavuos begins.

There was no time to waste.

Rabbi Sholom Duchman, Director of Colel Chabad, immediately sprang into action. He reached out to his team in Eretz Yisrael. With just seconds to go before Yom Tov, the Tehillim at Kever Dovid was renewed.

And it has not stopped since.

Since that day, every single day without interruption, a group of Chassidim has gathered at Kever Dovid. They say Tehillim for the protection, healing, and well-being of Klal Yisrael.

What began with the Rebbe’s direction has become an ongoing source of brachos in the heart of Yerushalayim.

And today, anyone can be a part of it.

As Shavuos approaches, we wanted to share this meaningful opportunity: names can be included in the daily Tehillim at Kever Dovid—whether for a refuah, a shidduch, personal blessings, or any heartfelt tefillah.

Submit your name for Tefillah at Kever Dovid here.

As we enter Shavuos, may we all merit to receive the Torah b’simcha u’b’pnimius with true joy and deep connection.

And may the merit of these daily tefillos bring revealed good to all who need it, and may we merit the coming of Moshiach, now.

By COLlive reporter

As Shavuos approaches and kosher consumers stock up on dairy products, a kosher education organization is warning that similar packaging and misunderstood labeling continue to cause confusion over whether certain products meet Cholov Yisroel standards.

“Kashrus: Be In The Know,” led by Rabbi Nissan Zibell, says many shoppers assume that terms such as “Non-Dairy” or familiar kosher certification symbols automatically indicate a product’s halachic status.

Among the questions consumers frequently ask, the organization says, are: “Is it true that products labeled ‘Non-Dairy’ can have actual dairy ingredients in them?”, “Is there a difference between a product labeled ‘Dairy-Free’ vs. ‘Non-Dairy’?”, and “What is the difference between OU-D and OU-DE?”

The group also says consumers regularly ask whether allergy warnings such as “May contain dairy” constitute a kashrus concern.

In educational guides distributed ahead of the yomtov, the organization highlighted several cheese brands that it says are commonly confused because of similar branding and packaging.

“Most of the companies do have different labels and brand names to differentiate between the Cholov Yisroel and non-Cholov Yisroel cheeses,” the group wrote. “However, the colors, fonts, and overall styles of the designs are often similar enough that many people have mistakenly confused the two and assumed that a non-Cholov Yisroel cheese was actually the Cholov Yisroel kind.”

The organization said the confusion has “led to mistakes of consuming non-Cholov Yisroel, and issues involving the need to kasher different equipment and utensils in the kitchen.”

One example involves the brands Migdal, Haolam, and Millers, which are owned by the same company. According to the guide, only the Haolam label is Cholov Yisroel.

“Since the packaging of Miller’s or Migdal may often be similar to the Haolam packages, there can definitely be confusion for someone not paying close attention or for someone who doesn’t know the difference between them,” the group stated. “One needs to be careful to check the wording to make sure the product explicitly says Cholov Yisroel on it.”

A similar issue exists, it says, between the brands Natural & Kosher and Les Petites Fermieres. The former produces Cholov Yisroel cheeses, while the latter does not.

“Although these two also have different packaging and names, they still look similar due to their font, design, and style, and many people have confused the two,” the guide noted.

The organization also emphasized that an OK certification alone does not indicate Cholov Yisroel status. “One should also be aware that the OK certifies cheeses that are non Cholov Yisroel,” it stated.

Other examples cited include Schtark and Oneg, two brands from the same company, where only Schtark products are Cholov Yisroel.

In the case of The Cheese Guy, the organization says the same company markets both Cholov Yisroel and non-Cholov Yisroel products under the same brand name.

“The way to differentiate between the two, is to pay close attention to the wording on each label to see if it says Cholov Yisroel,” the guide explained.

The organization also referenced Spring Valley cheese blintzes, noting that both Cholov Yisroel and non-Cholov Yisroel versions exist.

“A dairy product under national hashgachos, such as the OK, OU, Star K, Chof K, etc. needs to specifically say Cholov Yisroel on it to confirm that it is so,” the organization said.

“Kashrus: Be In The Know” describes itself as an organization focused on educating kosher consumers about practical halachic issues related to food production, processing, and supermarket shopping.

The educational materials include visual guides titled “Dairy or Not” and “Common Cheese Confusions.”

To join a group, Men’s Group or Women’s Group. For more, visit www.kashrusbeintheknow.com

By COLlive reporter

As Shavuos approaches, Jewish communities across Ukraine are once again preparing for Yom Tov under the shadow of war.

In recent days, residents across the country have endured renewed attacks, including a deadly strike in Kyiv that left dozens wounded and major explosions reported in Dnipro and other cities. Despite the ongoing danger, Chabad shluchim say they are determined to bring the joy of Shavuos to Jewish families throughout the country.

As part of a nationwide effort organized by the JRNU network of Jewish communities, local production lines across Ukraine were specially prepared to manufacture tens of thousands of mehadrin kosher ice creams and dairy products under leading local brands.

The goal is to supply more than 50 Jewish communities throughout the country with traditional dairy foods for Shavuos, while also bringing a sense of comfort and celebration to families living through wartime conditions.

Alongside the ice cream distribution, volunteers are also preparing large quantities of food packages filled with dairy products including milk, fruit yogurts, cream, cream cheese, mozzarella cheese and other staples for Yom Tov meals.

Organizers said the packages are especially important this year as many families continue to struggle financially because of the war.

All dairy products were produced under the supervision of the Ukraine Kashrus Committee UK, headed by Rabbi Pinchas Vishetsky of Kyiv.

Rabbi Yehoshua Vishetsky, who oversees the “Ukr-Kosher” certification network in Ukraine, said producing cholov yisroel products in wartime conditions has presented major logistical challenges.

“Over the years we have gone through many challenges with cholov yisroel production,” he said.

A major focus of the Shavuos activities this year will again be the public readings of Aseres Hadibros, following the longstanding campaign of the Rebbe encouraging even young children to hear the Ten Commandments on Shavuos.

Dozens of public readings and children’s programs are planned in cities across the country.

“Our goal is to bring a little sweetness to the children and Jewish families for Shavuos,” one shliach in Kyiv said. “People here are living through an unimaginable period. The explosions and attacks are part of daily life, but we are not giving up on a single child or a single family.”

JRNU organizers said the dairy and food distributions will continue over the coming days to ensure that Jewish families across Ukraine can celebrate Shavuos with dignity and simcha despite the ongoing war.

There’s something I’ve been carrying in my heart for a while, and I want to share it the way I would say it face-to-face: honestly, with love for going to shul, and with no intention of sounding holier-than-thou.

I love going to shul on Shabbos. I love my community. I love seeing familiar faces, hearing the children laugh in the hallways, and feeling the warmth of a place that belongs to all of us. It’s the one time all week when I can step away from the noise of life and simply be with Hashem.

For me, and for many of the women I sit with, Shabbos davening is the point. We wait for it all week. We come to answer Amen with kavanah, to follow every word of Krias HaTorah, to thank Hashem, to ask for what we need, and to listen. When the Aron HaKodesh is open, it feels like Hashem is right there, listening to every tefillah. Those moments feel holy, fragile, and like such a gift.

Lately, it has become harder to hold onto that feeling.

I understand that children talk. They are children, and their voices are part of the life and energy of a shul. But it’s no longer only the children. There is constant conversation coming from the men’s section as well. At times, it becomes impossible for the women’s section to hear the Chazan or the Baal Koreh.

I understand that people want to connect with one another. Community matters. But I want to ask, sincerely and respectfully: if you feel the need to talk during davening, could you please step outside the room?

This time is meant to be between us and Hashem. We are all trying to get there, too.

Men are given the incredible mitzvah of coming to shul and davening three times a day. Three opportunities every single day to stand before Hashem, to open your heart, to ask for parnassah, for health, for shalom bayis, for clarity, for strength. Every person is carrying something. Every person needs brachos. We are living in Golus, trying to hold ourselves together, and these moments in shul are precious.

Sometimes I find myself unable to understand how, while the Aron HaKodesh is open and Krias HaTorah is taking place, people can continue speaking about narishkeit as though nothing holy is happening. Not because anyone should feel afraid, but because how can we not feel the weight and beauty of where we are standing? Hashem is everywhere, but shul is the place we are taught to come especially close to Him. The channels for bracha are open.

Do we not all need something from Hashem?

Why wait, chalilah, for tragedy or pain to wake us up and remind us to turn to Him? Why not use these moments now, while we have them?

(And then there are the phones. During the week, especially, seeing phones out during davening is something I struggle to understand. Someone once gave a mashal: if a person were sitting in a meeting with the head of a major company, discussing a multimillion-dollar contract that could change his entire future, would he sit there scrolling on his phone? Of course not. The phone would be off and put away because the meeting would be too important. Kal vachomer when we stand before Hashem.)

Hashem determines our parnassah, our health, our families, and our lives every single day. Davening is our meeting with Him. How can we treat those moments casually?

I am not preaching, and I am not judging anyone. I am simply asking, as one member of the community to another: please help protect the kedusha of our shuls. Help create an environment where people can hear the davening, concentrate on the Torah reading, and truly connect to Hashem.

Let’s protect the quiet. Let’s use these moments wisely. Let’s remember why we came.

Because when Jews truly daven together, when the Aron is open and hearts are open too, there is nothing more powerful than that.

May all of our tefillos be answered in a revealed way, with the coming of Moshiach now.

Thank you in advance from a fellow davener from behind the mechitzah.

Torrential rain and thunderstorms are sweeping through Brooklyn, NY this evening, causing flooding in many lower level floors in homes and business.

Photos and videos of the Main Shul at 770 Eastern Parkway in Crown Heights show significant flooding of the busy synagogue.

New York City has been under a severe thunder warning today, issued by the National Weather Service.

A severe thunderstorm warning is in effect until 7:30 p.m. Wednesday for Queens, Brooklyn, and Staten Island in the city. The warning also includes Nassau, Hudson and Union counties.

These thunderstorms are moving east at 30 mph and are capable of producing 60 mph gusts and penny-sized hail.

The storms are also producing torrential downpours that may lead to flooded roadways.

https://collive.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/whatsapp-video-2026-05-20-at-7.51.34-pm.mp4

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Hosts Rivkah Krinsky and Eda Schottenstein interview educator and author Rachel Goldberg-Polin about her book When We See You Again, her family’s life in Jerusalem, and the loss of her son Hersh Goldberg-Polin, who was taken hostage from the Nova Music Festival on October 7 and later murdered after 328 days in captivity.

Rachel recounts her path into Orthodox Jewish life starting in eighth grade at an Orthodox day school, describes how tefillah and Torah have sustained her, and shares how Viktor Frankl’s Man’s Search for Meaning—relayed to her through released hostage Or Levy—became a tool for enduring suffering by finding purpose. She discusses Modeh Ani, trust in Hashem amid uncertainty, grief as an expression of love, “toxic positivity” versus “tragic optimism,” and verses and teachings that frame this world as a hallway to the next.

By COLlive reporter

Dozens of residents of Crown Heights and Flatbush gathered outside New York City Hall on Tuesday to protest the placement of additional homeless shelters in their neighborhoods, calling on city officials to distribute shelters more evenly across the city.

The rally, held outside the Mayor’s Office in Lower Manhattan, drew community members who said Crown Heights and Flatbush have already taken on more than their share of shelters and should not continue bearing the burden alone.

Organizers told COLlive the demonstration was intended to protect local families, schools, and seniors, while urging city leaders to reconsider plans for additional shelters in the area. Participants were both Jewish and non-Jewish people, showing how this issue affects all residents.

Residents at the rally stressed that their opposition was not directed at homeless individuals themselves, but at what they described as an unfair concentration of shelters in a small number of neighborhoods.

“We’re not here to say that we don’t care about those individuals challenged with being homeless,” one protester said. “We’re saying that other neighborhoods have to do their fair share. Crown Heights and Flatbush are already doing their fair share.”

Speakers at the rally claimed there are already more than a dozen shelters operating in Crown Heights, with several more reportedly planned between Crown Heights and Flatbush.

“Crown Heights and Flatbush together have 25 shelters,” another speaker said. “Then we have another reported eight being planned. That’s almost 30 shelters, while some communities have none at all.”

Several protesters accused elected officials of ignoring residents’ concerns and allowing the neighborhoods to become what one speaker called “a dumping ground for the city’s homeless and mentally ill.”

Others voiced concerns about quality-of-life issues and public safety, saying families moved to the area seeking stable communities to raise children.

“We’re tired of being ignored,” one resident told the crowd. “We care about our neighborhoods and care about our city.”

Participants also criticized the city’s use of hotels converted into shelters, arguing that developers profit while neighborhoods receive little additional support or services.

“We’re asking for housing instead of shelters,” one speaker declared.

VIDEO

With camp opening in just 36 days, an exciting new chapter in outdoor adventure is coming to life.

After months of planning and development, camp CGI Poconos has officially unveiled a brand-new Wilderness Program that will transform the summer experience for campers of all ages. The program centers around the camp’s previously unused back 40 acres – a breathtaking natural area that has now been carefully cleared, expanded, secured, and developed into a dynamic outdoor learning environment.

The newly enhanced property now features an extensive trail system, dedicated exploration areas, and overnight camping spaces designed to immerse campers in nature while maintaining the highest standards of safety and supervision.

To lead this exciting initiative, camp is welcoming Mrs. Lisa Geller as Wilderness Specialist. Mrs. Geller brings years of outdoor leadership experience, including extensive work with wilderness programming and the Girl Scouts. Her passion for hands-on outdoor education and nature-based Torah learning will introduce an entirely new dimension to camp this summer.

Campers in the Junior and B-Me divisions will enjoy guided hikes, nature exploration, outdoor discovery activities, and age-appropriate wilderness experiences designed to foster curiosity, confidence, and appreciation for the outdoors.

For Pioneer and Teen campers, the program will offer a more advanced progression of outdoor skills throughout the summer, ultimately preparing them for supervised overnight camping experiences within the new wilderness area. These overnights will allow campers to apply their skills in real-world settings while building independence, teamwork, resilience, leadership, and deeper connections with nature.

Camp leadership believes the Wilderness Program will quickly become one of the highlights of the summer experience.

“Creating opportunities for campers to challenge themselves, connect with the Creator through nature, and build confidence outside of their comfort zone is something we are incredibly excited about,” Camp Founder & Director Gershon Sandler shared. “This program combines adventure, personal growth, outdoor Torah education, and unforgettable experiences in a safe, structured, and meaningful way.”

As excitement builds toward opening day, campers, parents and referring Shluchim alike are eagerly anticipating what promises to be one of the most memorable additions to camp programming in years.

For more info: CGIPoconos.org

In preparation for the auspicious day of Gimmel Tammuz, the talmidim of Mesivta Melbourne have enthusiastically launched a far-reaching Mivtza Hachana aimed at strengthening hiskashrus to the Rebbe through learning, davening, and daily hanhagos.

The program centers around dedicated לימוד of Kovetz Nosi Hador (by Vaad Talmidei Hatmimim Haolomi), with bochurim learning the material thoroughly and being tested regularly to ensure a strong understanding of the Rebbe’s Sichos and letters connected to this topic. The first test took place on Daled Sivan with extreme Hatzalacha.

Alongside the לימוד, the bochurim have undertaken a number of meaningful hachlatos to elevate their daily Seder. Participants are committing themselves to saying Chitas every day, arriving on time to Chassidus, and writing a weekly letter to the Rebbe.

The Mivtza has already generated tremendous excitement throughout the Mesivta, with bochurim encouraging one another and bringing a renewed energy into their learning and avodah as Gimmel Tammuz approaches.

The initiative is being organized and run by Menachem Hakohen Deren and Yosef Yitzchok Lipskier, whose dedication and hard work have helped create a strong atmosphere of preparation and hiskashrus among the talmidim.

With the powerful unity and enthusiasm already being seen, the talmidim hope that these preparations will bring increased hisorerus and lead to the ultimate fulfillment of the Rebbe’s brachos with the coming of the Geulah השלימה תיכף ומיד ממש.

At the end of the Mivtza there will be a raffle for one Bochur to represent Melbourne by the Rebbe on Gimmel Tammuz.

Mrs. Sarah Bleich, matriarch of an illustrious family of Rabonim, leaders and shluchim, passed away on Wednesday, 4 Sivan, 5786.

She was 90.

Mrs. Bleich was born in 1936 to R. Dovid and Yenta Lew of Williamsburg.

After marrying R’ Reuven Bleich, they first lived in Williamsburg and then later Boro Park. They had ten children together, whom they raised in a home replete with yiras shamayim and emunas chachamim and askonus.

Mrs. Bleich developed a relationship with Lubavitch, largely due to the friendship and influence of her brother, Rabbi Shmuel Lew Sheyichye and lhbchl”ch sister Mindy Feller, A”H.

She was zoche to be present at many of the earliest Lag Baomer parades, and was at the Farbreingen on Motzai Shabbos 11 Shvat, 5721, when the Rebbe discussed the Maharal—an ancestor of the Lew family. Her son, Rabbi Moshe Bleich, directs Chabad of Wellesley-Weston, and his son Rabbi Mendel and family are shluchim nearby at Babson College.

Mrs. Bleich is survived by her children R’ Pinchos Bleich, Brooklyn, NY; Rebbetzin Rochel Kalmanowitz, Brooklyn, NY; R’ Sholom Shachne Bleich, Lakewood, NJ; R’ Chaim Bleich, Woodridge, NY; Horav Yaakov Bleich, Kyiv, Ukraine; Mrs. Yenty Halpert, Monsey, NY; R’ Michoel Bleich, Forshay, NY; Mrs. Reina Tabak, Woodridge, NY; Horav Avrohom Bleich, Detroit, MI; Horav Moshe Bleich, Wellesley, MA; and numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

She was predeceased by her husband, R’ Reuven Bleich, A”H.

Levaya Information:

The Levaya will take place today, 5/20 at 5:00pm at Shomrei Hadas Chapel
3803 14th Ave
Brooklyn NY 11218

Kevurah at Har Shalom Cemetery
Hillside Ave
For men only

Shivah tonight and tomorrow morning at
6 Margetts Road
Monsey NY 10952

Baruch Dayan Ha’emes.

As Yidden around the world count the days of Sefiras HaOmer in anticipation of Kabolas HaTorah, many are taking the opportunity to strengthen the foundations upon which a true Torah home is built.

In that spirit, Machon Taharas Habayis is launching a new five-week “Hilchos Taharas Hamishpacha Review for Men” series, designed to provide clarity, review, and practical understanding in these vital halachos — together with the deeper hashkafic and chinuch perspectives that shape a Chassidishe home.

The weekly Wednesday evening program will feature respected Rabbonim, Mashpi’im, and educators addressing key topics relevant to married life, Sholom Bayis, and the responsibility of building a בית נאמן בישראל with kedusha and Taharah in a lasting and פנימיות’dike way.

The course schedule is as follows:

Week #1 — “Defining Nidda”
Wednesday, 4 Sivan
Rabbi Yisroel Fried — Shliach, Upper West Side Manhattan

Week #2 — “Harchakos”
Wednesday, 11 Sivan
Rabbi Yossef Yeshaya Braun — Mara D’asra, Badatz of Crown Heights

Week #3 — “Tahara Process & Vestos”
Wednesday, 18 Sivan
Rabbi Asher Noam Webb — Midtown Manhattan Kollel

Week #4 — “Yiddishe Chinuch”
Wednesday, 25 Sivan
Rabbi Mendel Yusewitz — Machon Taharas Habayis, Cheder Ohr Menachem

Week #5 — “Sholom Bayis & Hashkafa”
Wednesday, 9 Tammuz
Rabbi Yitzchak M. Einstein — Mashpia in Yeshivas Beis Dovid Shlomo

The program will take place Wednesday evenings at 8:00 PM at Itchkes Shtiebel, 612 Maple Street.

Organizers express tremndious Hakoras Hatov to all who help organize, publicize and support this vital cause. Please join, and consider supporting! Moshiach Now!

Zelle: [email protected] [please add in notes: for Taharas Habayis Review]

A moving and historic moment took place last night ahead of the holiday of Shavuot: a Ukrainian-language edition of the Book of Psalms was brought to the Tomb of King David in Jerusalem’s Old City and to the Western Wall.

As has been reported in recent years, following the outbreak of the war in Ukraine, the educational institute of the Rebbe’s shluchim, operating under the auspices of the Federation of Jewish Communities of Ukraine (FJCU), launched a major initiative to translate Jewish literature into Ukrainian. Around eight staff members — including Torah scholars alongside Ukrainian linguists — have been working around the clock in full coordination to translate foundational Jewish texts, as well as children’s stories about the Bible and Talmud, into the local language for the very first time. The initiative followed Ukraine’s decision to distance itself completely from the Russian language, which had long been used officially throughout the country, and to adopt Ukrainian instead.

As part of this effort, the Five Books of Moses, sections of the prayer book, portions of the Bible, introductory Chassidic works, educational booklets about Jewish holidays and basic mitzvot, and children’s educational materials have already been translated. Over the past year, the translation of the Book of Psalms was also completed. During a meeting organized by the federation between Chabad emissaries and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy during the recent Passover holiday, he received a leather-bound copy of the translated Psalms as a gift. At the same time, tens of thousands of pocket-sized Psalms editions were distributed to soldiers on the front lines and to Ukrainian security personnel, with the hope that they would bring protection and salvation.

The newly translated volume has now been placed at the resting place of King David and in one of the libraries adjacent to the Western Wall plaza. Earlier, the rabbi of Haditch and Chabad emissary, Rabbi Shneur Zalman Deitsch, presented a copy of the translated Psalms to the Rabbi of the Western Wall, Rabbi Shmuel Rabinovitch.

The individual who had the honor of placing the Psalms at these holy sites was businessman Mikhail Shifrin from the Jewish community of Kharkiv, whose printing house produces these holy books. Notably, the printing facility suffered severe damage during a Russian attack, with destruction estimated at one million dollars — yet that did not stop Shifrin from continuing this important work.

After placing the Psalms, together with a personal dedication he had written inside them, an emotional Shifrin said this moment represented a full-circle experience for him.

“I grew up in a home where Judaism was absent. Communism almost completely disconnected us, and now I have the privilege of coming to King David and giving him this precious gift on the eve of the festival of the Giving of the Torah — in my name and on behalf of all the Jews of Ukraine.”

Rabbi Moshe Moskowitz, the rabbi of Kharkiv and Shifrin’s spiritual mentor, said that the first Ukrainian edition of the Psalms — 20,000 copies — was completely sold out within a short time, including among many non-Jewish residents. A second edition is already being printed.

Chairman of the Jewish communities in Ukraine and Chabad emissary Rabbi Mayer Stambler said that the translated Jewish books are sparking a profound spiritual awakening among Ukrainian Jews and strengthening their connection to Jewish tradition, with the Book of Psalms playing a central role.

He added that Russian bombardments have intensified dramatically in recent days and have been among the heaviest since the war began four and a half years ago.

“In Ukraine, dozens of fatalities are being counted, yet despite everything, thousands of Jews across the country will celebrate Shavuot in synagogues this year as well. Together with Chabad emissaries, the federation is organizing public readings of the Ten Commandments in synagogues attended by men, women, and children alike.

“At the Giving of the Torah, we merited a clear Divine revelation in this world, and all of creation paused its activity to accept the yoke of Heaven. Our prayer is that this Shavuot, we will once again merit a Divine revelation — bringing an end to wars, complete healing for the sick, and salvation for all who need it, with the coming of the true and complete redemption.”

Learners around the world will begin studying Maseches Yevamos this Wednesday, 4 Sivan 5786, as part of the growing “Amud Yomi Chabad” initiative — a daily Gemara learning track based on the Chabad custom to study one amud of Gemara each day.

The new masechta begins following the completion of Seder Moed, marking a significant milestone for participants in the program.

The program was founded in the summer of 5780 to strengthen and publicize the Minhag Chabad, recorded in Sefer Haminhagim (page 21), in which the Rebbe records that Chassidim would study an amud of Gemara each day.

Maseches Yevamos, one of the major masechtos in Shas, deals primarily with the laws of yibum and chalitzah, while also exploring many important areas of Jewish family life and halachah.

Although known for its depth, many learners find Yevamos especially enjoyable because of its fascinating discussions and the satisfaction that comes from steadily working through its sugyos one amud at a time.

A major feature of the program is the daily shiur delivered by renowned Maggid Shiur Rabbi Mendel Potash shlit”a, whose exceptional ability to clarify and simplify difficult sugyos has made the learning accessible and enjoyable for many participants.

The structured format allows participants to steadily progress through Shas with a manageable daily commitment.

The learning schedule follows a five-day weekly cycle, with Sunday through Thursday dedicated to new learning, while Friday and Shabbos are reserved for review and chazarah.

In addition to the daily learning track, the program offers:

Daily shiurim in Hebrew and English

Learning resources and summaries

Weekly schedules and reminders

Assistance in organizing local shiurim

Easy online access across multiple platforms

For those considering joining, beginning a new kevius in Torah learning just before Zman Matan Torah is an especially meaningful time to start.

Organizers report growing participation from Anash and community members worldwide, with many appreciating the consistency and achrayus created by learning a fixed amud every day.

For schedules and shiurim, visit:

AmudYomiChabad.com

Join the WhatsApp group:
https://chat.whatsapp.com/Kg5Hq4i4JHfKbxFpRAa8Lo

By Levi

I would like to bring to parents’ attention what some younger campers experienced in overnight camp years ago, especially during their first years away from home.

Before anything else, I want to make it clear that there has been a lot of positive change over the years. Camps today are more aware, more sensitive, and many staff members genuinely care deeply about the campers. This is not meant to attack any specific camp or person. The point is simply to help staff members be more attentive and kinder this summer, especially to younger children.

When people talk about difficult camp experiences, they often focus on a camper being publicly singled out. But what I remember affecting many younger campers just as much was the effect it had on all the other children watching it happen.

As a young camper years ago, that fear could stay with you the entire summer.

Speaking from my own experience back then, many boys who were never punished still felt anxious in camp every day. Not because they were being targeted personally, but because they were constantly afraid of becoming the next camper singled out publicly.

At 9 or 10 years old, boys arrive in camp excited. They spent months begging their parents to let them go. They are happy to see friends and excited for the summer ahead.

Then, within minutes of camp beginning, the atmosphere could suddenly feel different.

Back then, I remember the head staff walking into shul loudly trying to establish order. The room became tense immediately. Many younger campers felt that one wrong move, one word spoken too late, or one small mistake could suddenly make them the center of attention in front of hundreds of people.

For younger campers, that feeling could be overwhelming.

Many older campers eventually learned to brush it off. But younger children often did not.

I still remember the tension many campers felt during davening, bentching, lineup, bedside inspection, or before trips. Sometimes, as a younger camper, it no longer felt like the goal was to enjoy camp or grow. It felt like the goal was simply avoiding embarrassment.

And the strange thing is that many campers still went back the next year.

Part of that was because overnight camp was such a major part of the social culture. Boys wanted to be where their friends were. Many were too embarrassed to explain to their parents what they were really feeling emotionally during the summer.

Again, I want to stress that camps today are better than they once were. There are camps making real improvements. There are wonderful counselors who are patient, caring, and warm. Many regular counselors were the highlight of camp for younger boys.

But I still think it is important for staff members to realize how much younger campers absorb emotionally from the atmosphere around them.

One thing I often wondered back then was why camps sometimes felt such pressure to stay perfectly on schedule at all costs.

Sometimes, a dining room full of excited boys simply took a few extra minutes to calm down. Looking back now, I sometimes wonder whether it would have been better to let things run a few minutes late rather than publicly call out younger campers just to restore immediate silence.

That type of patience can completely change the tone of camp for a child.

There is obviously an important need for discipline and safety in camp. Camps have swimming areas, forests, trips, buses, and hundreds of children to supervise. Staff members carry enormous responsibility, and nobody is minimizing that.

But even years ago, younger campers could usually tell the difference between firm guidance and fear.

Some of my strongest memories from camp are not the trips or prizes, but moments where younger campers were called out publicly while everyone else watched silently and nervously.

I also think exhaustion played a role. Head staff members worked unbelievably hard and often slept very little. By the middle of the summer, everyone was drained. Looking back now as an adult, I can understand how patience sometimes disappeared simply because people were overwhelmed and exhausted.

This is why camp directors play such an important role. Younger staff members need guidance, boundaries, and reminders that every camper is someone’s precious child.

Many camps have already become calmer and more thoughtful than they once were. That is a very positive thing. I am writing this only because I hope that progress continues.

A younger camper may forget the trips years later. But he usually does not forget how the adults around him made him feel.

As camps begin this summer, I hope staff members remember that younger children experience everything more intensely than adults sometimes realize.

A little more patience, a little more kindness, and a little less public embarrassment can make camp a completely different experience for a child.

Crown Heights Shmira is asking for the public’s help in locating a missing elderly woman who was last seen Wednesday morning in Crown Heights.

Gisi Freedland, 75, was last seen walking on Wednesday, May 20, at approximately 10:30 a.m., according to a flyer distributed by Crown Heights Shmira.

She was wearing a pink top, black skirt, and white shoes at the time she disappeared.

Community members who may have seen her or have any information regarding her whereabouts are urged to immediately contact Crown Heights Shmira’s 24/7 emergency hotline at 718-221-0303.

With the summer countdown officially underway, final preparations are in full swing at Camp L’man Achai. The camp is gearing up to welcome campers back to its stunning grounds in Andes, New York, in the upper Catskills Mountains.

Known for combining sports and outdoor programs with a warm, non-judgmental Jewish environment, L’man Achai is ready to take its legacy of a “Heritage of Happy Campers” to new heights this year.

A cornerstone of CLA’s success has long been its foundation of dedicated married staff and families who live on-site and return from summer to summer, along with all the amazing Bochurim they create wholesome, stable atmosphere year to year.

In line with this tradition, the camp is thrilled to announce that Rabbi Daniel Namdar is returning as the Head Counselor of the Teens Division! A veteran leader of the Teens program who is currently on Shlichus in Tenafly, NJ, Daniel will be rejoining the staff along with his family. The camp is excited to have his expertise and passion back at the helm. He will be joining Senior Head Counselor of the main camp, Rabbi Levi Gajer, who has been coming to camp with his family for many years.

Camp L’man Achai is uniquely equipped to provide a warm, growth-oriented environment for boys from all backgrounds. If you know a boy who would thrive in a camp that beautifully balances adventure with an inspiring, non-judgmental approach to Yiddishkeit, please reach out to the camp. CLA specializes in giving every camper a place to belong.

“Our staff is hand-selected for their extraordinary devotion,” says Camp Director Rabbi Yitzchok Steinmetz. “They make sure every single boy feels at home, builds confidence, and discovers new talents.”

“I’m the biggest fan of Camp L’man Achai. The work they do is incredible. I’ve seen firsthand what effect it had on the kids I sent from my community,” says Rabbi Levi Shemtov , Shliach in Riverdale, NY.

Registration is closing fast, with a few spots left.

Lear more at cla.camp

A few days before last summer’s Virtual Camp ended, Rabbi Mendel Greisman‘s son walked over to him in their home in Rogers, Arkansas, shluchim. “You know, Tatty,” he said, “MyShliach Virtual Camp is the best camp in the world.” For a kid growing up hours from the nearest frum family, that says it all.

This summer, Virtual Camp is back. Registration is now open for MyShliach Virtual Camp 5786, running June 22 through July 16 for boys and girls in grades Pre-1A through 4. And for the first time, the program is open to families beyond the shlichus community as well.

“For many Yaldei Hashluchim, this is the only Chassidishe camp experience available to them,” said Rabbi Mendy Kotlarsky, Executive Director of Merkos 302. “Virtual Camp brings the ruach, the learning, and the friendships of a real camp directly into their homes, wherever in the world that may be.”

Each morning opens with davening, Hayom Yom, a Chassidishe story, and niggunim, followed by hands-on activities, live shows, cooking workshops, competitions, and games led by warm, experienced staff who understand the world these children grow up in.

Last summer’s camp featured a wide array of activities, from a live Sofer Show and slime-making to a Coffee Kosel Art Project and step-by-step cookie baking. Daily missions, raffles, and programs like “Get to Know Your Fellow Shliach” kept campers connected across continents and time zones.

“Our goal is to give Yaldei Hashluchim a summer filled with Chassidishe energy and real friendships, even if they can’t join a physical camp,” said Rabbi Dudi Ashkenazi, Director of MyShliach Virtual Camp at Merkos 302. “These kids carry a sense of mission all year. Camp is where they get to be kids, together.”

The camp runs Monday through Thursday, 10:00 AM to 12:30 PM EDT, split into two sessions: June 22 to July 2 and July 6 to July 16. An early bird discount of 15% is available through Shavuos, bringing the cost to $72 per session.

To register, visit myshliach.com/mvc. For questions, email [email protected].

While other camps in Crown Heights are shifting towards the “Yeshivas Kaitz” model, Gan Yisroel emphasizes fun and inspiration.

In its 13th year, Gan Yisroel offers Kindergarten and elementary divisions, as well as a work and play program for 6-8th graders.

Campers come from all our neighborhood yeshivas and beyond, and have fun with trips, sports and crafts, as well as learning and davening.

Our Head Counselors are returning from last year, Rabbi Shneur Pevzner for the older division and Morah Anat Ohana for the younger.

Kids learn best when they are happy, and in Gan Yisroel, the Torah is our life. As a smaller camp, Gan Yisroel is able to do things that many of the larger ones cannot, such as bike and scooter trips, occasional night activities, lots of individualized attention, and an optional father-son camping trip.

Prices are reasonable and vouchers are often accepted. Weekly and monthly rates are available.

For more information and to register, please visit www.gych.org, or call Rabbi Zvi Lipchik at 917-743-2268

As the school year comes to a close, Tanya teachers are invited to join a collaborative gathering featuring speakers, shared ideas, and group discussion centered around making Tanya feel more real and meaningful in students’ everyday lives.

Hosted by the Merkos Chinuch Office, the workshop will bring together middle school and high school Tanya teachers for an evening of discussion, reflection, and practical guidance on planning for next year’s classes and strengthening the way Tanya is taught.

The focus is on helping teachers guide students to experience Tanya as something that connects to their emotions, choices, relationships, and daily experiences. The workshop’s presenters include Rabbi Moshe Kesselman, Rov and teacher in Los Angeles, and Mrs. Shterna Ginsberg, educator, mashpia, and author who has led nationwide Tanya hachanos for Chabad high schools. The sessions will also include time for teachers to share challenges and approaches from their own classrooms.

As teachers wrap up the current school year, the workshop is meant to give mechanchos a chance to reflect while the year is still fresh, looking at what worked, what can be improved, and how to approach next year’s Tanya classes with more clarity and direction.

Topics will include:
Making Tanya relatable
Helping students connect Tanya to real life
Structuring Tanya lessons more effectively
Encouraging meaningful classroom discussion
Creating stronger student engagement

The workshop will take place on May 25, 9 Sivan, from 8:00–10:00 PM EST and is open to middle school and high school Tanya teachers.

Register Here: chinuchoffice.org/tanya

By COLlive reporter

Gracie Mansion, the official residence of the Mayor of New York City, once again hosted a reception marking Jewish American Heritage Month on Monday.

Since it was held ahead of Shavuos, the event featured an all-milchig menu catered by Papillon (certified by Tarnopol). Guests were served cheesecake, blintzes, bourekas, and knishes, along with wine and refreshments.

“Tonight, across the five boroughs, Jewish New Yorkers are preparing for the holiday ahead,” Mayor Zohran Mamdani said in his remarks. “Homes and shuls are being decorated with blossoming flowers. Cheesecakes are being baked. Blintzes are being folded. Children are learning about the values that have defined Judaism for millennia.”

So what could possibly go wrong?

Certain Jewish groups objected to the event’s host.

This tension was fueled by an incident just days earlier, when Mamdani posted a video commemorating “Nakba Day,” marking the period surrounding Israel’s War of Independence in 1948.

Mamdani described it as “an annual day of remembrance to commemorate the expulsion of more than 700,000 Palestinians between 1947 and 1949,” alongside a video featuring one of those individuals.

The video, produced with New York taxpayer funds, received criticism from members of the Jewish community and others. One Christian mother commented, “Saying 700,000 people shouldn’t have been displaced in 1948 is just a euphemism for saying Israel shouldn’t have been founded.”

Mamdani defended the decision earlier Monday, saying recognition of Palestinian suffering does not diminish Jewish history or concerns over antisemitism, while emphasizing that his administration remains open to dialogue with Jewish leaders.

Former Democratic New York Assemblyman Dov Hikind said before the event, “I am calling on Jewish leaders not to attend this event. I plead with you to take a stand. Show pride. Have self-respect. You don’t have to go to Gracie Mansion for cheese danishes.”

Organizations that skipped the mayor’s blintzes included representatives of the Conference of Presidents, UJA-Federation of New York, Jewish Community Relations Council, Anti-Defamation League, American Jewish Committee, Met Council, Orthodox Union, Agudath Israel of America, and others.

As a result, those who did attend were highlighted, including progressive Jewish activists and liberal Jewish leaders, as well as representatives of the Satmar and Crown Heights Jewish communities. Among them were Devorah Halberstam, Honorary NYPD Commissioner of Community Safety and chair of the Board of Commissioners to Combat Antisemitism, and community activist Yaacov Behrman.

Halberstam said she attended because she has been “building a friendship and finding common ground and mutual respect” with the Mayor. “I think he wants to learn more about the Jewish community, and I hope that I will help him build bridges,” she said.

“Responding to Hikind’s characterization of attendees as “traitors,” Rabbi Yaacov Behrman, who strongly criticized Mamdani’s Nakba Day video over the weekend, said that Hikind should stop creating drama over who is or isn’t going, adding that it is important to be outspoken when the mayor crosses the line while also remaining engaged.

“No one attending this event is endorsing the mayor’s views or suggesting that his Nakba post was anything less than outrageous and unacceptable,” he wrote on X.

“This is not really about going or not going. It is about the why, and about how a person conducts himself in general. Was Mordechai considered a traitor to the Jewish people because of his position in government?

“A traitor does what is best for himself, whether for image or personal gain. A leader does what he genuinely believes is right for his community. Going for personal gain or refusing to go for personal gain are ultimately the same thing.

“We should be proud Jews, confident enough to speak our minds without fear and mature enough to act in the way we believe the moment demands,” Behrman concluded.

VIDEO:

At the event itself, Mamdani addressed preparations for Shavuos, rising antisemitism, and the city’s responsibility to ensure Jewish New Yorkers feel secure. He also honored former Manhattan Borough President Ruth Messinger for her longstanding public service and leadership.

“As we mark the history and contributions of Jewish New Yorkers, we know that there are many who seek to make it harder for you to live at the heart of our city, to make you unsafe for no other reason than the faith you observe and the clothes that you wear.

“Despite Jewish New Yorkers accounting for nearly 12% of our city’s population, you are also the targets of more than 50% of all hate crimes. Jewish New Yorkers have worked to cultivate a city that is safe and open to all. You should be accorded the same security and the same peace of mind.”

Mamdani also announced an annual investment of $26 million to expand hate crime prevention efforts through the Office to Prevent Hate Crimes.

“I know that there is more that has to be done to ensure that our response to antisemitism is not merely that, a response after it has happened. We must also invest in ensuring that we prevent it from happening in the first place.”

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Seven days. No phone. No texting or calling friends and family. No music. No taking pictures. Now who would ever even think of doing that? Pointless! Phones are so helpful, so convenient and a great distraction from life. When you want to escape your problems in the easiest way, what do you do? Lie on the couch and scroll. When you want to plan a hangout with some friends, what do you do? Go to your phone and text them. Want to create a memory? Take a photo or make a TikTok with your friends on your phone. Need help with an essay? Ask AI. You’re bored? Watch a movie. It’s just all so easy.

Anything you need or want is right in front of your face, on a little rectangular device.
That stupid phone. And yes I’m using the word stupid, because what happened to using our brain G-d gifted us with? What happened to living in the moment? What happened to figuring things out on our own? We think we aren’t capable of living without a phone, but we are, because phones didn’t always exist. And here I’ll prove to you how it is possible to live without your phone.

Wednesday afternoon I walked onto a plane to fly home. It was after a two day trip with my school where we barely had our phones. I looked to my right and every single person’s eyes were glued to a device. I looked to my left, same thing. The back of the plane? Not even one person was paying attention to the world around them. I thought to myself, wow, this world is sad, everyone’s lives just revolve around a screen. Although I’m only 17 and my life has basically just started, I decided right there and then, I’m not living like everyone else, my life is going to be different.

Once we landed, I handed my phone to someone and asked them to hold onto it for me. I needed a break from the thing taking away my chances of enjoying life and figuring things out the hard way, the way we were meant to all along, with our brain.

It’s been four days without my phone; my goal is to go a week without it. Now I’m gonna be honest, I still have a laptop I can use and my mom’s phone if I need to communicate, but let’s skip over that. I want to share firsthand how much my life has improved in just four days without a phone. It was a choice I made spontaneously but had really only done good for me.

The first day was difficult, I felt very disoriented, tired, bored, annoyed, and all I wanted was my phone, but I kept going. The second day was magical: I felt human, I felt myself again, I spent the day relearning old hobbies, hanging out with my family and ended off the night going to a Bat Mitzvah party, where I actually felt present for once. Best day of my life. The third day was an extremely productive day: I cleaned my room after pushing it off for a while, I did laundry, I played basketball with my younger siblings, and went on a walk with some friends. The fourth day was a repetition of the second and third and I’m hoping it will stay like this. The best part? I’ve been falling asleep quickly and much earlier than usual.

People have judged me for trying this experiment because they don’t understand the beauty of life without a phone. What I have to say so far is I’m so glad I made this choice and I already see how much happier of a person I am. I really recommend a phone detox even for just a day.

It’s amazing to see what this world has to offer.

Lag B’Omer at Cheder Chabad Florida is always a very special day, and this year’s celebration brought the entire Cheder family together for a beautiful program filled with Achdus, Simcha, and tremendous energy.

The day opened with a beautiful rally bringing together the entire student body together with their parents. Emceed by Rabbi Zash Itkin, the program highlighted 50 years since the Rebbe’s establishment of the Yud Beis Pesukim, with specially prepared videos of the Rebbe from Lag B’Omer rallies of years past.

The rally featured a lively concert by Aryeh Leib Hurwitz, with music by Chony Teitelbaum, and the children sang and danced along with tremendous Geshmak. A fascinating BMX stunt show followed.
The highlight of the day was the grand Lag B’Omer parade. Each class had prepared stunning floats in the days leading up to Lag B’Omer, with most of the floats centered around the Yud Beis Pesukim in honor of 50 years since the Rebbe first introduced them. The main Boulevard outside the Cheder was blocked off, allowing the children to march proudly down the street with their floats, banners, and songs.

Following the parade, the celebration continued with a family fair featuring rides, games, and a barbecue, a beautiful event that brought the Cheder community together.

“The Rebbe established the Yud Beis Pesukim 50 years ago so that every Yiddishe child would carry these foundational Yesodos with him,” shared Rabbi Aharon Matusof, Dean of Cheder Chabad Florida. “To watch our Talmidim and Talmidos march today with such Chayus and Shtolz, and to see our parents looking on with such Nachas, it was simply a wow moment, the Rebbe’s vision coming alive before our eyes.”

A Yasher Koach to the Rebbeim, Morahs, and staff who poured their hearts into making the day a success, and to the parent volunteers and sponsors whose help made the event possible.

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The word “artisanal” brings to mind something prepared with care: measured thoughtfully, mixed patiently, and shaped by hand. In many ways, it captures the kind of chinuch Tomchei Tmimim Ocean Parkway strives to provide every day.

Real growth is not created all at once. Like a dough that needs the right balance of flour, water, and yeast, a talmid’s growth depends on many ingredients coming together in the right way: warmth, structure, encouragement, consistency, and a deep sense of connection. When those ingredients are present, something meaningful begins to form.

At TTOP, we believe that chinuch is built through these daily interactions. A rebbi’s extra few minutes. A thoughtful word at the right time. The clear expectations that help a talmid carry himself with responsibility and with the yoke of עול מלכות שמים. The warmth that helps him feel safe enough to try again. These moments are not incidental. They are part of the careful process through which a child is shaped and strengthened.

And just as oil can enrich and deepen what it touches, the presence of פנימיות – the inner care, warmth, and intentional chinuch – is what gives it lasting depth. When that is worked into the life of a school, it does more than help a talmid succeed in the moment. It helps form who he is becoming.

This campaign is about supporting that process. With the partnership of parents, families, and friends, we can continue providing a yeshiva environment where the right ingredients are there, the right care is baked in, and every talmid is given the opportunity to grow into all that he can be.

Please click here and consider participating in our campaign.

Chabad F.R.E.E. NYC will be distributing huge quantities and a wide variety of fresh produce and pantry food staples in Crown Heights, TODAY, Tuesday, May 19, on President Street, between Schenectady and Utica, from 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM prompt.

Please bring along a shopping cart as food cartons are heavy.

For private appointments, or to subscribe to our future food distributions, please email your name, address and cellphone number to [email protected]. All names will be held strictly confidential.

As we prepare for Shavuos, the upcoming Yom Tov marking the giving of the Torah, Chassidim are reminded of a special hora’ah from the Rebbe regarding the appropriate preparation for the auspicious days leading up to Matan Torah.

In the “Shalsheles Hayachas” printed at the beginning of Hayom Yom for the year 5748 (1988), the Rebbe wrote:

“It is suggested that during the days of preparation for the time of the giving of our Torah, they study the maamar ‘Bachodesh Hashlishi’ etc. (in Torah Or, Parshas Yisro).”

“It is worthwhile and fitting to study the Chassidic discourse entitled bachodesh hashlishi (In the third month…”). We
should begin studying with eagerness, on the actual day of Rosh Chodesh – and then steadily advance in its study over the course of the next few days.”

EXPLAIN MA’AMOR TO ALL
We should publicize the directive to study this discourse in every location, and it should be implemented in actuality. We
should make it clear that studying the discourse is relevant to each man, woman and child. It is something we can teach and
explain to every Jew, each on their own level,

The maamar, authored by the Alter Rebbe and printed in Torah Or on Parshas Yisro, explores the spiritual significance of Matan Torah and the preparation necessary to receive the Torah properly.

Over the years, numerous editions, explanations, shiurim, and translations have been produced to help make the maamar accessible to all levels of learning, in both Hebrew and English.

Below is a collection of resources for learning the maamar during the days leading up to Shavuos.

Original Maamar – Torah Or

Chassidus Mevueres Edition

English Translation

Shiurim on the Maamar
English Shiur

Inside Chassidus Shiur Series

Hebrew Shiur Series
Video Shiur in Hebrew

Biurim Edition

Yeshiva Bais Sholom of Postville was filled with energy over the past few months as the annual Kitzur Shulchan Aruch league took over the Yeshiva’s schedule. Bochurim immersed themselves in the first section of Kitzur Shulchan Aruch, a major undertaking that has become a highlight of the year.

While the program was overseen by the Hanhala, including Rabbi Zirkind (Menahel), Rabbi Levin (Mashpia), and Shalom Dovid Yerushalmi (Meishiv) who served as judges, the driving force behind this year’s success was Eltere Bochur Yisrael Bankhalter.

Yisroel managed the organization of the six-team league alongside the separate individual learning tracks. His dedication kept the bochurim motivated, ensuring the learning remained consistent and competitive throughout the Yeshiva.

The program offered two distinct paths to success. In addition to the team-based competition, individual tracks allowed students to earn cash prizes and gift cards for seforim by reaching personal learning milestones throughout the duration of the mivtza.

The excitement peaked during the All-Star style elimination round. The finalists showcased their Bekius on Kitzur Shulchan Aruch. The top three winners, who each received gift cards for seforim, were:

1st Place: Mottele Levin

2nd Place: Shneur Zalman Goldstein

3rd Place: Sruli Neparstak

Following the individual finals, the top two teams faced off in the Championship Game. Team Kodshim, led by captain Shmulik Forster, secured the victory through a strong mastery of the halachos.

To celebrate the months of hard work, the team winners and top individual performers traveled to Milwaukee, Wisconsin, for a grand reward trip. The day included indoor racing and a festive gala dinner at a local restaurant.

The continued success of the program highlights the Yeshiva’s effort to bring a love for Torah learning to the students in engaging ways.

Located in the countryside of Iowa, the Mesivta offers a warm atmosphere focused on high-level learning and personal growth, helping bochurim develop a lifelong geshmak in learning.

Registration for the upcoming school year at Bais Sholom of Postville is now open. To apply, visit mesivtapostville.org.

Mrs. Feiga Leah Neiman, a beloved mother and grandmother from Chicago, IL, passed away on Thursday, 27 Iyar, 5786.

She was 84.

Feiga Leah (Avis Lee) Neiman was the beloved wife of Dr. Abraham Neiman.

She is survived by her husband and children, Dr. Abigail (Marshall Levit) Neiman, Dr. Eli Neiman and Alita Arnold, and grandchildren Chana, Yaakov, Hadassah, Novel, Emuna, Nutah, Aharon, Kayla, Menachem Mendel, Chana and the late Zali.

The Levaya was held at Zion Gardens Cemetery in Chicago.

Baruch Dayan Ha’emes.

Dear friends,

Baby Rivka Katz is only 7 months old.

Her parents, Daniel and Chava Katz from Israel, waited five long years for her. Five years of prayers, hope, tears, and dreams – until finally, their precious baby girl was born.

Rivka is their only daughter.

Their long-awaited miracle.

Their whole world.

But now, at just 7 months old, Baby Rivka is fighting a serious blood disease.

Instead of enjoying these first beautiful months of her life, her parents are facing fear, uncertainty, and urgent medical decisions. Doctors are now recommending treatment in Vienna, and the costs are far beyond what this young family can carry alone.

They waited five years to hold her.

Now they are fighting not to lose her.

No parent should have to look at their tiny baby and wonder whether money will stand between her and the care she desperately needs.

That is why we are turning to you.

Please open your heart and help Baby Rivka get the urgent treatment she needs. Your donation can help cover medical care, travel, hospital-related expenses, and the support this family needs during this terrifying time.

Every donation matters.

Every share matters.

Every act of kindness gives this family more hope.

Please help give Baby Rivka the chance to grow, smile, reach her first birthday, and live the life her parents waited five years to see.

Donate now

Thank you for standing with Baby Rivka and her family.

With deep gratitude,

Rivkas parents

Enjoy the new Day-to-Day Halacha Guide Shavuos 5786 Edition from Rabbi Yosef Braun of the Crown Heights Beis Din.

Includes laws, customs and inspiration to make Kabbalas Hatorah this year as joyful, insightful and easy as possible.

Download English

Download Hebrew

Message from Rabbi Sholom Ber Stambler:

My name is Rabbi Sholom Ber Stambler, and for the past 21 years, I have been privileged to serve as the Rebbe’s Shliach in Warsaw, Poland. The Rebbe inspired us to help every Jew no matter the situation they find themselves in.

I turn to Klal Yisrael with an urgent Pidyon Shvuyim appeal which I have been working on for the past few months:

Two Yidden from Eretz Yisrael with families, are currently imprisoned in a local jail under very harsh conditions and are suffering immensely. I have visited both Yidden multiple times and have brought them Kosher food dozens of times. My heart goes out to them and I consider their situations a true case of Pidyon Shvuyim.

After months of effort, one of the Yidden can now finally obtain bail in the coming weeks if $55,000 USD is posted. Unfortunately, his family cannot obtain this amount on their own, so I have taken it upon myself to help raise it. If he does not post bail, he will languish in a Polish cell until his trial which could take several years.

The second Yid a former Taxi driver from Israel is in a very bitter state and has been relying on me for much-needed moral support. His wife in Israel has been hospitalized dealing with her own psychological issues. Unfortunately, he is facing a minimum of 3 years in prison and could potentially face more time without a good lawyer. We have managed to find a good lawyer and we need to pay his fees so that this Yid can hopefully receive the minimum sentence possible. The fees for this case will amount to $30,000 USD.

Throughout the years, I have helped many Yidden arrested in Poland. These cases are unique and heartbreaking. I truly believe helping these Yidden is a huge mitzvah.

As we prepare to celebrate Shavuos next week, and the giving of the Torah, I turn to everyone with an appeal to fulfill what the Rambam describes as the greatest mitzvah: Pidyon Shvuyim.

May you and your loved ones be blessed to receive the Torah with joy and internalize it.

Click here to help now.

Rabbi Stambler,
Chabad of Warsaw.

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The students of Yeshivas Tomchei Temimim in Brunoy, France — one of the oldest and largest Chabad yeshivos in the world — gathered for a general group photo.

The yeshiva is led by Rabbi Yitzchok Nemenov, Rabbi Mendel Gurevitch, and Rosh Yeshiva Rabbi Yechiel Kalmenson.

More than 350 students study at the yeshiva, arriving from many countries around the world, as well as from Eretz Yisroel.