Chabad of Greater Monsey

Melava Malka for Girls

2012-02-13T14:15:00.003-05:00

There will be a Melave Malka for girls in 3rd grade through 6th grade (no girls below 3rd grade due to the nature of the activities) this Motzai Shabbos, Parshas Mispotim, from 7:15 PM to 9:15 PM at the Goldfarb home, 20 Grosser Lane.

Milchigs will be served.

There are a limited number of spaces available so, please RSVP by this Wednesday, February 15, by contacting srgoldfarb1@gmail.com or 845-356-3884. Please be sure to RSVP to ensure there are enough activity supplies and food.

YMML Prepares for Yud Shvat

2012-02-13T14:01:00.000-05:00

In the month preceding Yud Shvat, the Shluchim of the Mesivta arranged a Mivtza to help prepare the Bochurim for the special day. The Mivtza comprised of two parts:

Learning and reviewing the Rebbe's first Ma’amer of Basi Legani 5711 by heart.
Strengthening the Hiskashrus to the Rebbe by completing a daily duch listing several things that are essential to the life of a Tomim such as Limud HaRambam, participating in Seder Sichos and attending the weekly Inyonei Geulah U'Moshiach Shiur given by Rabbi Liberow.

Boruch Hashem, the Mivtza was an overwhelming success with the intense involvement of the vast majority of the Bochurim in Mesivta. Outside the seder hours it was a familiar sight to see many bochurim learning the Maamer in zal with the Shluchim.

Building Health Awareness at Cheder Chabad

2012-02-13T13:54:00.001-05:00

This past Sunday, the PTA of Cheder Chabad boys held their monthly Sunday program. In conjunction with Tu B’Shvat and in an effort to promote healthy eating habits, the program was designed to demonstrate to the children how healthy and nutritious food can taste good and be fun and exciting to create.

Each student had the opportunity to create and custom design their own gourmet popcorn and make smoothies according to their own tastes and fancies. With an impressive array of spices, berries, cocoa powder, vanilla essence , nuts and other seasonings the boys first designed their own bag with a logo and brand name for their individual popcorn flavors. An array of fresh fruits let the boys design their own distinctive smoothie flavor.

While half of the school was involved in the popcorn production and seasonings the other half was busy discovering just how delicious milk can be when mixed with fresh and healthy fruits!

Using the recently purchased Magic Bullets smoothie makers, the boys discovered the subtle differences and tastes of smoothies using bananas, strawberries, apples, nectarines and blueberries.

The PTA are very excited about the prospect of having a smoothie day on a regular basis, whereby the boys will be empowered to make their own fresh fruit concoctions which will be healthy, nutritious and delicious! Thank you to all the moms involved, particularly Mrs. Karen Schild, Mrs. Michal Silverstein (who worked behind the scenes), Mrs. Bassie Friedman, Mrs Chaya Niasoff and Mrs Bracha Meshchaninov.

Special thanks to the 7th grade boys for helping the younger grades cut the fruit and blend the smoothies.

Mazel Tov Kaufmans!

2012-02-12T15:54:00.003-05:00

Mazel tov to Avrohom and Channah Dobka Kaufman on the birth of a baby girl!

Shifra and Puah arranges homemade meals from people in the community for mothers of newborn children from our community. If you are able to cook a meal, please sign up on MealTrain or contact Karen Schild at 845-354-4898 or karenschild@yahoo.com.

K'hal Nusach Ari Melava Malka

2012-02-12T13:13:00.001-05:00

A Strange Estate Transaction

2012-02-12T13:11:00.000-05:00

By Zalman Goldstein

It was a sunny February Friday morning in Monsey, NY. A friend invited me to attend an Estate Sale. I’ve never been to an Estate sale, and am not even sure what they are. For some reason I decided to join along. Perhaps because he said it was just a few minutes’ drive from where we were and it wouldn’t take much time.

“Here’s to new experiences,” I thought, and hopped into his car.

We arrived at the advertised address --- a small attached home. We parked in front and went inside.

The house was small and cozy. People were milling about picking up knick-knacks asking for prices, a dollar fifty for this, four dollars for that, said a good natured middle-aged man.

Turns out the owner is an elderly woman and her daughter and son were handling the logistics of the sale, haggling and making small talk with the slow moving crowed filing through the house.

Deeper in the house I saw a dining room table stacked with all kinds of effects for sale. In the middle was a ceramic Matzah dish and two brass candlesticks. I didn’t pay much attention to them at the time. Not really interested, I thought.

Being my first Estate sale experience, I noticed I was feeling some sadness seeing one’s 50-60 years of memories laid out bare, with people buying bits and pieces of that life. Yet the family seemed cheerful enough which helped me feel better about the whole thing.

At the end we both found something to buy costing just a few dollars, if just to make the owners happy.

On the way out, the older woman, their mother, said to us “Good Shabbos.” We replied same and left.

Driving away, the image of the candlesticks for sale on that dining room table stayed in my mind like a super-imposed image that doesn’t fade easily.

Why am I still thinking about them? I thought. Soon I felt more clarity -- they had a mission I was to do for them and I completely missed the opportunity.

It was close to noon, time to pick up the kids from school. On the way, the candlesticks spoke louder. I felt I understood their plan. I wasn’t going to let them down this time.

I stopped by a bakery and picked up a fresh Challa, the plan becoming more alive, then, after collecting the kids from school and clueing them on our mission, I stopped off at home to pick up two candles and the accompanying glass holders that sit atop candlesticks, and a Shabbat Table Companion book.

We wound our way back to the woman’s house all the while hoping the candlesticks weren’t sold in the meantime.

The plan was now in full motion. I was excited. As were the kids.

We parked in the same spot, piled out of the van and filed inside.

Yup, the candlesticks were still there!

I searched out the older woman and asked her if the candlesticks were for sale.

“Yes,” she replied, going to search for her son to give us a price.

“Eight dollars for the pair,” he said.

“Deal,” I said while pulling out my wallet and giving him the money.

The mother went to the table, took the candlesticks and put them in my hands.

“Here!”

I held them, my kids watching my every move. I then looked her softly in the eye and spoke.

“You know why I came all the way back and bought these candlesticks?”

“No. Not particularly.”

“I came back together with my children to buy them from you so we can gift them back to you, in order so that these candlesticks can stay in your dining room, continuing to illuminate your home every Friday and Holiday night.”

Tears sprung and welled up in her eyes.

Mine soon followed.

Our daughter Hindy gave her the baggie with the candles and glass holders.

Moishy gave her the Challa.

Chana gave her the Shabbat Table Companion.

Silence fell in the home.

Her son came over to see what’s transpiring, the daughter following close behind.

Mom told them what we’ve done, choking up and unsuccessfully fighting her tears.

It was a very emotionally laden moment.

There were hugs and tears between them. Even the eyes of the strangers rummaging through the estate items ---Jewish and non--- stopped to stare as if overcome by the outpouring of G-dly light radiating from the Jewish souls of this beautiful family.

The mother finally spoke and told us her Hebrew name is Tziporah, she went to Talmud Torah as a child but not much followed.

She said she warmly accepts our gift and “already knows the Brochos (blessings)…”.

On our way out her son said to me, “Just as you offered mom a gift, we want to give you a gift -- here, take the eight dollars back as our gift to you.”

I politely declined and asked instead that they share a part of the mitzvah of lighting Shabbat and Holiday candles to the merit of our own family.

“Agreed!” he said, mom and daughter also nodding their heads.

We left as we came, the way back traveling on spiritual clouds -- that sense of being part of something bigger. Something raw and deep connecting our Jewish souls so quickly, so deeply and so profoundly. It was this feeling that kept us warm on the winter day as we prepared to accept Shabbos.

Above and over everything else, I am glad our children got to experience our unique “transaction.” I hope the experience planted the seeds to have “Mivtzoyim Eyes” -- seeing an opportunity where there isn’t one apparent at first glance.

This trues story happened in 2012. Zalman Goldstein is the founder of The Jewish Learning Group, publisher of the popular SHABBAT TABLE COMPANION, GOING KOSHER IN 30 DAYS, and nearly a dozen outreach books used by Chabad Houses around the world; he is also the man behind the iconic CHABAD CLASSICS music series. He can be reached at Zalman@ZalmanGoldstein.com.

My Mivtzoyim Pals (L-R Hindy, Moishy, and Chana).

The wares displayed on the table.

Tziporah with her rededicated Shabbos candlesticks, and the Goldstein kids.

Office Positions Available in CH

2012-02-10T14:27:00.003-05:00

Vibrant international mosad based in Crown Heights is seeking qualified applicants to join our team. Seeking someone efficient, organized and reliable with a pleasant personality. Must be a quick learner.

Available Positions:

Executive assistant, to maintain office operations, provide customer service and assist with special projects.
Executive assistant, to assist with development and related projects

Necessary skillsMust be a people person with previous office experience. Must have basic writing skills. Applicant should be proficient in Microsoft Office and the web and be a quick learner.

Priority will be given to those with extensive experience and long-term commitment.

If you’re interested in pursuing this opportunity please email nationalmosad@gmail.com.

A Parsha Thought

2012-02-10T09:31:00.006-05:00

By Rabbi Yisroel Shusterman, Dean, Cheder Chabad of Monsey

During his initial bid for the presidency, Bill Clinton paid a visit to the heavily Jewish community of Boro Park. Speaking at a private dinner, on a dais filled with gray bearded rabbis, Mr. Clinton posited that the difference between himself and then president George Bush came down to this:

"Do you want a president who has Rachmonis (pity), or do you want a president who is a Rachmonis?"

The audience roared.Any successful speaker will tell you that you have to know your audience.

"When in Finland," the saying goes, "start with Finish."

This week’s Torah portion tells of the giving of the Aseres HaDibros (Ten Commandments) at Mount Sinai. G-d, the Torah and the Jewish people are formally joined. In a moment of unprecedented revelation, G-d addresses the Jewish people directly, saying, "I am the Lord your G-d." Surprisingly, the very first word G-d utters, Anochi -- "I" – is, in fact, an Egyptian term.

What does G-d mean by this and why did G-d use a foreign language at that most sacred moment?As the Jewish people receive the Torah at Mount Sinai, they earned the identity of "People of the Book." With G-d's first word at Mount Sinai, uttered in a foreign tongue, He hints to the Jewish people what their most urgent task will be in this new role … translating the Book and bringing its message to the world!G-d does not want Judaism to function as a private culture club, where the holy can mingle with the holy and grow holier. Rather, as G-d entrusts his sacred Torah to his chosen people, He intends for them to carry the torch of G-dliness to the darkest corners of the universe.

This is the message G-d seeks to convey to the Jewish people as He opens His Sinai dialogue in a foreign dialect. When we encounter one whose values are not yet in sync with the Torah or even stands in opposition to the teachings of the Torah,we mustn't despair of bringing him near. Often, it just might take a few soothing words of Torah uttered in a familiar diction, in a common language and at the level of understanding and comprehension of the listener, that will help bring him around to his heritage!

Have a meaningful and uplifting Shabbos!

Local Chabad Centers to Offer CLE Course

2012-02-09T23:26:00.002-05:00

The Chabad Centers of Rockland County are hosting a unique six-week course forattorneys and the public at the Clarkstown Hall, starting Thursday, February16th.

The course authored by the Jewish Learning Institute is entitled “MoneyMatters – Jewish Business Ethics”.

Each session provides 1.5 NYS approvedCLE credits, for a total of 9 credits over the duration of the course.

The lectures will given by area shluchim, Rabbi Aaron Dovid Gancz, RabbiChaim Zvi Ehrenreich and Rabbi Shmuel Gancz, alongside a number of esteemedNYS Supreme Court & Rockland County Judges.

For more information and to RSVP, please visit www.JewishLegalSociety.org.

The CLE credits are provided by New York Legal Assistance Group. Thank you to Mr.Yisroel Shulman for all of his help organizing this great endeavor!

YMMLM Welcomes New Staff

2012-02-09T23:21:00.001-05:00

Yeshivas Menachem Mendel Lubaviych of Monsey got an additional boost of chayus in learning this week with the arrival of Shmuely Rothstein and Ari Abramowitz.

Shmuely and Ari are alumni of the Yeshiva who keep coming back. Last year they were phenomenal madrichim whose positivity and devotion impacted countless bochurim. After completing their Smicha in 770, they have returned to inspire the bochurim once again.

Only a short time after their arrival one can already sense the effects of their presence in the Yeshiva.

LDC Raffle

2012-02-09T23:14:00.002-05:00

Purchase raffle tickets and be entered to win great prizes while supporting Lubavitch Day Camp!

To purchase tickets, please click here.

No Kol HaNeorim Minyan This Shabbos

2012-02-09T23:10:00.001-05:00

There will be no Kol Hanearim boys minyan this Shabbos at Tzemach Tzedek.

We look forward to having the boys bring their chayos in davening into the main Shul.

We will resume next Shabbos Parshas Mishpatim.

Avos U'Banim Time Change

2012-02-09T16:57:00.001-05:00

Beginning this Motzai Shabbos Avos U'Banim will take place from 7:30 PM to 8:30 PM due to Shabbos ending later.

Chof Beis Shvat Farbrenegn

2012-02-09T16:46:00.003-05:00

There will be a farbrengen for men in honor of Chof Beis Shvat this Wednesday night, February 15, at Tzemach Tzedek following the 9:30 PM Maariv minyan.

Rebbetzin Chaya Mushkah Schneerson (b. 1901), wife of the Rebbe, passed away on the 22nd of Shevat of the year 5748 (1988).

Shabbos Halacha Shiur

2012-02-09T16:35:00.003-05:00

The Shabbos afternoon Shulchan Aruch shiur at Tzemach Tzedek will take place at 4:30 PM this week.

Meisner - Larkin Bris Tomorrow

2012-02-09T16:34:00.002-05:00

Reb Chona and Shulamis Larkin and Rivka and Naftoli Meisner will be making a Bris for their newborn grandson and son tomorrow, Friday, at Tzemach Tzedek at 9:00 AM.

The Rebbe on Tu B'Shvat

2012-02-08T12:33:00.001-05:00

Hate Crime, Robbery Against Bochur In Monsey

2012-02-08T12:31:00.001-05:00

Living Museum of Chabad History at Cheder Chabad Girls

2012-02-08T12:26:00.000-05:00

Chabad history came to life at “The Living Museum of our Rich Chabad History” created by the talented students and teachers of Cheder Chabad Girls School of Monsey.

A walk through the museum took you through the historic Chabad towns of Liozna, Lubavitch, Rostov and later, New York, and specifically Crown Heights.

In each town the presence of the רבי or רביים who lived there was felt through the different drama presentations, slide shows, מאמרי חז"ל, or artifacts that were displayed. From town to town our travelers walked along dirt roads lit only by lanterns, with many trees lining the side of the road, as well as ducks and other animals.

The first town one visited was Liozna, where the fourth graders painted a wall with the yeshivah of the אלטער רבי, known as the "חדרים," with חדר Aleph, Beis and Gimmel. Another wall depicted different facts about the life of the אלטער רבי. The town of Liozna was divided into different stations with displays made by different girls in the class. The first station was a diorama, the second a Power-Point presentation and the third a story told through pictures. The last was a market place where a children's book about the אלטער רבי in full color was "sold."

From Liozna we traveled to the town of ליובאוויטש, home of 3 Chabad רביים. Our eighth graders had a lifelike shtetel complete with a working well, a pond with fish swimming around, as well as chickens and geese. Here too presentations were made representing the רביים who lived in Lubavitch, as well a museum of artifacts and a slide presentation. Next, we traveled onto Rostov, where the רבי רש"ב lived for the last few years of his life. In this room one met ר' חאניע מאראזאוו, הי"ד, a famous and devoted חסיד of the רבי רש"ב, and learned about the life of the רבי רש"ב with the help of the "Rostov tour guide," one of our seventh graders.

The sixth graders very artistically presented the life of the פריערדיקער רבי which began in Russia and ended in America. The display came complete with a boat that brought him to these shores. The message that one walked out with from there was the lifelong message of the פריערדיקער רבי, that "אמעריקא איז ניט אנדערש." America is no different than the Old Country in Europe.

Lastly, our fifth graders created a lifelike scene of Kingston Avenue leading to 770, home of our רבי, where on יו"ד שבט the רבי took on the נשיאות and taught our דור, giving us the teachings and tools to prepare for משיח. May we be זוכה to greet him now!

Gartel Gmach Missing Gartels

2012-02-07T11:21:00.001-05:00

If you borrowed a gartel from Rabbi Shusterman's gartel gmach and forgot to return it, please do so. The gmach has lost 6 gartels in the last few weeks and needs them back for people who need to borrow them.

Ramapo Police Arrest 3 for Attacking Jews

2012-02-07T10:37:00.000-05:00

By Steve Lieberman, The Journal News

MONSEY — Two Ramapo teenagers and a Brooklyn man who claimed to be going after Jews were charged with a hate crime after assaulting a man walking near Grove Street in Monsey, Ramapo police said today.

Stanley R. Joseph, 18, of Suffern and Jennifer C. St. Amand, 20, of Airmont were charged with the enhanced hate crime designation after they told officers “that they were specifically targeting Jewish community members,” Sgt. Sal Matos said in a news release.

Qwesi Williams, 19, of Brooklyn also was arrested after the other two. Police did not immediately have the specific charges against him but said they weree along the same lines as Joseph and St. Amand.Adding the designation of hate crime raises the seriousness of the criminal charge.

A man told police he was attacked at 11:49 p.m Monday while walking near 16 Grove St. He was struck from behind with an unknown object, with officers speculating the object might have been a “stick or other long thin object,” Matos said.After a description was broadcast of the attackers, one officer saw a man running from the scene and police vehicles. The officers ran after the man and apprehended him in the area of Route 306 and Maple Avenue.

Area residents gave police a license plate number for the car, leading officers to a home in Airmont where they took St. Amand in for questioning.Police charged Joseph with second-degree robbery and second-degree assault, both as a hate crime, felonies. Police charged St. Amand with second-degree robbery as a hate crime and making a false written statement, a misdemeanor.

All three were being held in the Ramapo police lockup for arraignment in Ramapo Justice Court.

Chof Beis Shvat Farbrengen for Women

2012-02-07T10:33:00.001-05:00

Cheder Chabad Matzah Sale

2012-02-07T09:57:00.001-05:00

MBCM Production Tickets for Sale

2012-02-07T09:08:00.000-05:00

Monsey Beis Chaya Mushka High School for Girls is pleased to inform you of our upcoming production which has proven to be a great highlight of the year for both our students and its audience.

Our students have been working in preparation of this production with much effort and excitement. We are sure you will enjoy each moment and be inspired as well.

Please contact our school office at 845-634-7400 or office@monseybcm.com to purchase tickets.

Looking forward to seeing you there!

Mazel Tov Poltoraks!

2012-02-06T22:49:00.002-05:00

Mazel tov to R' Alex and Leah Poltorak on the wedding of their son Dovid to Chaya Edelkopf which took place in Yerushalayim!

For more photos, please click here.

R' Yaakov Parisi to Farbreng Tuesday Night

2012-02-06T22:42:00.001-05:00

Reb Yaakov Parisi, who eent from being an evangelical Christian pastor to a Lubavitcher Chasid, will be farbrenging for men tomorrow night, Tuesday, February 7, at 8:00 PM at the home of Dovid Altman, 24 South Parker Drive.

All are invited!

MBCM Seeks Play Props

2012-02-06T22:38:00.001-05:00

Monsey Beis Chaya Mushka is preparing for their upcoming production "Out of the Depths". We are looking for donations of armchairs, chairs, couches and rugs to be used as props. To donate and arrange pickup, please call Chaya at 845-598-7120 and leave a message.

Shiur at Heichal Menachem

2012-02-06T22:37:00.001-05:00

French Twins Entertain Monsey

2012-02-06T17:10:00.001-05:00

More than 700 people turned out to watch a fascinating show by the famous French Twins in Monsey this past Sunday.

All proceeds from the show went to benefit Cheder Chabad of Monsey.

Thanks to Shloime and Shternie Litzman for organizing the show.

Tu B'Shvat Farbrengen

2012-02-06T10:27:00.001-05:00

There will be a farbrengen in honor of Tu B'Shvat following the 9:30 Maariv minyan at Tzemach Tzedek this Wednesday night, February 8.

Colonial for Sale in New Hempstead

2012-02-06T08:55:00.000-05:00

A spacious 4 bedroom, 2.5 bath Colonial is available for sale in New Hemsptead on a beautiful wooded .93 acre property.

The home includes a full wall brick fireplace, huge basement and many improvements.

Motivated seller. Immediate occupancy. Reduced thousands. Asking $465,000.

For more information, please contact Esther Ingber Realty at 845-354-6060.

Released Time in Monsey

2012-02-03T11:58:00.003-05:00

The Rebbe has spoken many times about the importance of every Jewish child having a Jewish education. The Released Time program was created to give Jewish children who are learning in the Public School systems a chance to learn about their Jewish heritage.

We mostly associate Released Time program with kids who do not have homes that reflect the Jewish way of living.However, here in Monsey, there are at least a handful of kids who do have frum homes, yet they still are in the Public School system, due to their special needs.

If you know of bochurim who would be willing to volunteer their time for a released time program, so that these Jewish neshomos can have some formal Jewish education, aside from what they get from their homes, please contact Sadya Engel at Released Time program at NCFJE in Crown Heights at 347-432-4167 or releasedtime@gmail.com and tell him you are volunteering for the Monsey Released Time.

In honor of Yud Shevat, please take on the hachlota to commit yourself for this special cause.

Yud Shvat at Cheder Chabad Girls

2012-02-03T10:25:00.002-05:00

All Anash and Cheder parents are invited to come see our magnificent “Living Museum of our Rich Chabad History” today, Friday, Yud Shvat, February 3, anytime between 10:00 AM and 11:45 AM at the Cheder Chabad Girls School, 246 North Main Street.

Don't miss an amazing opportunity to shep nachas!

Seeking Teacher

2012-02-03T10:20:00.001-05:00

Lubavitch on the Palisades school in Tenafly, New Jersey, is looking for a third grade Limudei Kodesh teacher for the upcoming school year (September 2012 - July 2013).

The hours are 8:30 AM to 12:30 PM Monday through Thursday and Friday from 8:30 AM to 10:45 AM.

If interested in this position, please contact Orite at 646-262-3856 or orite@chabadlubavitch.org.

South Monsey Playgroup

2012-02-03T09:59:00.001-05:00

Shulchan Aruch Shiur

2012-02-02T23:44:00.003-05:00

The Shabbos afternoon Shulchan Aruch shiur at Tzemach Tzedek will take place at 4:30 PM this Shabbos.

Tu B'Shvat Farbrengen

2012-02-02T23:43:00.004-05:00

There will be a farbrengen in honor of Tu B'Shvat following the 9:30 Maariv minyan at Tzemach Tzedek this Wednesday night, February 8.

R' Herson to Farbreng This Motzai Shabbos

2012-02-02T23:42:00.001-05:00

A Parsha thought

2012-02-02T23:41:00.000-05:00

By Rabbi Yisroel Shusterman

Every Shabbat table boasts a goblet of wine and two loaves of the special Shabbos bread - challah. Why do we have two loaves? Our Parshah teaches that, in the desert, G-d gave our ancestors a daily portion of manna. On Friday, He gave them two portions, one for Friday and the other for Shabbat. We mark this miracle by placing two loaves of bread on our Shabbat table.

Everyone came home with the standard measurement of Manna regardless of how much or little he gathered in the field. All Manna that was left uneaten by sundown would spoil. There was, however, one exception: the portion left over after sundown, on Friday. That remained fresh to be eaten on Shabbat.

Everything in Torah carries a moral lesson that is eternal. Eternal lessons are as relevant today as they were on the day that they were written. What is the relevant moral lesson to be derived from the Manna's three qualities? Our lot is determined in heaven, and we all receive our share. Working overtime will not increase our allotment, and working under-time will not decrease it either. All money not utilized by the end of our lifetime - our "sundown" - will go to waste, because we cannot take it along.

There is, however, one exception: money that is saved for the Shabbat meal -- i.e. used for the purpose of a Mitzvah. That money, as any money used for a Mitzva, will never go to waste, and will earn its owner eternal reward in the World to Come.

Have a meaningful and uplifting Shabbos!

Avos U'Bonim Yud Shvat Melava Malka

2012-02-02T21:06:00.000-05:00

The annual Avos U'Bonim Melave Malka in honor of Yud Shvat will be held this Motzai Shabbos after the regular learning program at Tzemach Tzedek.

This special pareve Melave Malka is being hosted by the Amram family in honor of Menachem Mendel's birthday on Sunday (12 Shvat).

All elementary age boys are encouraged to come with their fathers to enjoy this quality time together with a beautiful Melave Malka to follow!

If you would like to sponsor any other Avos U'Bonim programs, please contact Rabbi Shusterman at 845-356-1213 ext. 104.

Gershon & Devorah Sandler Opening New Camp

2012-02-02T21:03:00.001-05:00

Daily Mincha Time Change

2012-02-02T09:18:00.000-05:00

Beginning this Sunday, the daily Mincha at Tzemach Tzedek will take place at 5:00 PM.

Tzvi Jacobs Releases New Book

2012-02-02T00:00:00.000-05:00

Monsey's very own Reb Tzvi Jacobs has just released a new book entitled "Who's Gonna Save the World? - Journeys of a Southern Jewish Boy".

Tzvi, who has previously authored "From the Heavens to the Heart", is an accomplished writer and captivating storyteller.

To purchase the book, please contact tzvijacobs@msn.com.

R' Pinye Korf to Farbreng at Heichal Menachem

2012-02-01T23:48:00.002-05:00

This Sunday - The Twins from France

2012-02-01T15:58:00.002-05:00

Nanuet Mall Closes

2012-02-01T15:36:00.001-05:00

By Hema Easley, The Journal News

The Nanuet Mall closed its door to the public at midnight Tuesday, paving the way for Simon Properties to begin demolishing the county’s oldest mall and replacing it with a new one.

Workers have already fenced off the building and have been shutting off gas, water and electricity. Some asbestos removal will begin in the coming days as will the taking down of the elevator, but actual demolition of the building will not happen until the owners apply for the required permit.

Through the entire process, Macy’s and Sears, whose buildings flank the mall, will remain open for business.

“They are at a stage where they are starting to disassemble things in the interior,” said Clarkstown Supervisor Alex Gromack. “It is very exciting. ... Everything is moving along very matter-of-factly.”

Simon Properties, which owns the mall, has said it plans to begin construction by March 1 and have the mall open to the public by September or October 2013. The renderings presented to town officials show an L-shaped, open-air mall with a boulevard flanked by single-story stores next to a two-story cinema and fitness center.

Pedestrian walkways and landscaping would flank the stores, and some parking would be available on the boulevard.Simon, the Town of Clarkstown and many Rockland County residents hope the new shopping center will lure customers and help in renewal of the mall, which began to lose customers when the Palisades Center opened in West Nyack in 1998.

Seeking Teacher

2012-02-01T15:27:00.001-05:00

Great teaching position available in New Jersey Chabad Center a halfhour from Monsey on Sunday mornings.

Position begins next week.Serious inquiries only! Hours are 9:45 AM to 12:45 PM. Excellent pay.

Please call 973-493-7842.

N'shei Chabad Bookstore Update

2012-02-01T15:25:00.000-05:00

New releases:

Beautiful Family Tehillim - Illustrated by Michoel Muchnik
Pat, Roll, Pull - A Challah Braiding Story from Hachai Publishing
The Mivtzoim Campaigns for Children
HaOsios Kedoshos Sheli - Beautiful Presentation of Alef-Bais
Gut Yom Tov - The stories behind the chassidishe yomim tovim

Back in print:

Spice and Spirit Cookbook - Lubavitch Women's Organization
Basi L'Gani - English, Hebrew or English/Hebrew

Please call 845-558-8249 before you come to the store at 6 Zabriskie Terrace.

Kol HaNearim Yud Shvat Program

2012-02-01T15:20:00.001-05:00

Rabbi Zalman Wilschanski to Farbreng on Yud Shvat

2012-02-01T15:17:00.001-05:00

Rabbi Zalman Wilschanski, Rosh Yeshiva of Tomchei Temimim in Morristown, will be farbrenging at Tzemach Tzedek this Thursday night, February 2, in honor of Yud Shvat.

Maariv will be at 8:30 PM followed by the farbrengen.

If you are able to help set up the farbrengen, please contact Moshe Reitman at mdreitman@gmail.com.

Kesser Weekly Specials

2012-01-31T20:49:00.000-05:00

The Kesser Distributors specials for this week are:

Chicken Breast Fillet - $4.49 per pound
Chuck Steak - $7.49 per pound
Turkey Breast Netted - $5.49 per pound

Order by the case and save!

To order, please go to kesserdistributors.com or contact Chaim Holtzberg at yourkesser@gmail.com or 914-729-0838.

Cheder-Bay

2012-01-31T20:10:00.000-05:00

We all have lots of treasures around our house.

Drop them off at the Cheder Chabad Girls building and we will sell them on eBay and turn them into to cash.

Anything you think is of value and in good condition can be donated.Some suggestions include toys in like new condition, Jewish books in good condition, gifts you received that you don't need, brand name clothes in like new condition, anything new that was never used.

Is there something you have in your house you want to sell and don't have time?We will sell it for you and split the profits 50% for youand 50% for Cheder Chabad.You get a mitzvah and some extra cash with absolutely no effort on your part.

Please contact Rivkie at eBay@chedermonsey.org or call 845-356-1213 ext. 228.

Invite Guests for Shabbos

2012-01-31T20:05:00.001-05:00

Cheder 5th Grade Boys Hold Parsha Fair

2012-01-31T08:23:00.000-05:00

In honor of Cheder Chabad's 5th grade finishing Parshas Bo, the entire school was treated to a project fair where the talmidim of Kita Hey presented the storyline and the Mitzvos in the Parsha through 3-D projects, posters, tri-folds and dioramas.

"When the talmidim finish a parsha, it can be difficult to have them review the parsha before continuing on," says their teacher, Rabbi Zelig Silber, "Through the boys presenting their projects and their oral presentations filled with Medroshim and Meforshim, not only did we as class benefit but the entire school was invited to join in the fun as well."

Another teacher who was present remarked, "it's amazing to see the boys talent's surfacing during the fair, some have talents in creating the physical projects, while others have strength in their oratory skills. It really is a great opportunity for each child to shine."

Yud Shvat Farbrengen for Women

2012-01-31T08:19:00.001-05:00

Litzman Bris

2012-01-30T17:05:00.001-05:00

Chesky and Rochel Litzman will be making a Bris for their newborn son tomorrow, Tuesday, morning at Tzemach Tzedek following the 7:00 AM Shacharis minyan.

Third Daily Maariv Minyan

2012-01-30T15:59:00.000-05:00

A new third daily Maariv minyan is now being held at Tzemach Tzedek at 5:45 PM this week and will change with the zman.

The other daily Maariv minyanim remain at 8:30 PM and at 9:30 PM.

Toll Hike for 5 Mid-Hudson Valley Bridges

2012-01-30T12:54:00.000-05:00

AP - Motorists who travel over the five Hudson River bridges operated by the New York State Bridge Authority will have to fork over more money for tolls starting today, Monday.

The agency is reminding motorists that the basic passenger car toll will increase from $1 to $1.25 for E-ZPass customers and $1.50 for cash customers as of 12:01 a.m. Monday.Bridge Authority officials say E-ZPass customers get a break because it costs less to collect tolls electronically.

The agency announced in October that it planned to raise tolls in early 2012. Officials say tolls need to be increased to pay for more than $100 million in capital projects.

The authority operates the Mid-Hudson, Newburgh-Beacon, Kingston-Rhinecliff, Rip Van Winkle and Bear Mountain bridges.

Monsey Bochur Meets Newt

2012-01-29T20:49:00.001-05:00

Eli Hazan of Wesley Hills meeting Newt Gingrich at a fundraiser in Boca Raton, Florida, where Eli is learning at Machon Menachem - Boca Raton Rabbinical College.

Miracles for Bounty Available This Tuesday

2012-01-29T16:27:00.003-05:00

By Dr. Yisroel Susskind, Rockland Jewish Reporter

Are you interested in taking a chance on a miracle that could increase the material, spiritual and emotional bounty in your life? Miracles do happen. For example, I view the survival of the State of Israel in 1948 as an open miracle. Are you aware that in 1948 the vast majority of political and military pundits worldwide reasoned that the new state would not survive one week?

According to Jewish tradition, this coming Tuesday, Jan. 31, will be a miraculous, opportune time to receive blessings for plenty in our lives. I first learned of this concept four years ago, on Tuesday, Jan. 25, 2008.

A colleague told me that there is a kaballah (orally transmitted tradition) reaching back to the Chassidic Rebbe Menachem Mendel of Rymanov that one can receive a blessing for livelihood on the Tuesday of the week of parshat Beshalach. This year, Tuesday, Jan. 31, is such a Tuesday. We will read Beshalach on Saturday, Feb. 4.How do you “apply” for this miracle? Parshat Beshalach includes a description of the mannah, that fell from the heavens and sustained the Israelites during their 40 years in the desert. All you need to do is to read verses in Exodus 16:4-36, referred to as Parshah ha-Mon, which includes a discussion of the mannah. I thought that the story was a nice sweet Jewish tale, but decided to not take it seriously.

But only three minutes after I heard the story, I received a phone call from a client, a man in his 50s who had been out of work for many months. I had been concerned about the strain he was under. He announced that this week he had gotten an excellent position and felt that he had to call me today to share the good news.Whoa! That got my attention. Coincidence? I felt drawn, for reasons that were unclear to me, to pursue more information about Parshas ha-Mon. From my colleague I next learned that this custom had been popularized by “a revered rabbi in Brooklyn,” who said that it came down as an oral tradition from Reb Menachem Mendel of Rymanov (1755-1815) via the Shinever Rov, Rabbi Yechezkel Shraga Halberstam (1813-1898).

“Whoa #2”! The Shinever Rov served for 7 years as the Rabbi of the town from which my ancestors came, Stropkov, Slovakia.I am a psychologist. Later that day, I met with a Chassidic client of mine and mentioned to him the issue of Parshas ha-Mon. He told me that his grandfather had arrived in the U.S. as a penniless, Holocaust survivor and ultimately became a very wealthy man. His grandfather attributed his financial success to the fact that he began every day by reading a small portion of a book about the mannah by Rabbi Menachem Mendel of Rymanov.Many people read Parshat ha-Mon on a daily basis, so you can draw on its benefits for livelihood any day of the year. However, its powers to bring down blessings are particularly strong on the Tuesday of parshat Beshalach each year.

The Rymanover explains that spiritual, and not merely material, blessings come from reading about the mannah. It represents HaShem’s helping us to connect with Him through our limited intellectual powers of thought and speech; just as the mannah is a gift from HaShem that we did not earn, so too is HaShem's helping to understand him through our intellect. My client told to me that the “revered rabbi in Brooklyn” who popularized the custom in the U.S. was the Paya Rov, Rabbi Moshe Dov Weinberger.

“Whoa” #3! I am a Weinberger; both of my grandmothers were Weinbergers.

“Whoa” #4! I believe that I am a distant cousin to the Paya Rov.

At 6 p.m., I called the Paya Rov’s household, who confirmed that he had heard of the tradition from his father who had heard it from Rabbi Avraham Sholom Halberstam (the son of the Shinever Rov), who said that his father had related the tradition in the name of Rabbi Menachem Mendel of Rymanov.I next spoke with the current Stropkover Rebbe, Rabbi Avraham Sholom Yissachar Dov Halberstam of Jerusalem, who confirmed that there is a kaballah in his family, which the Shinever passed down in the name of the Rymanover, that saying Parshat ha-Mon on the Tuesday of Parshat Beshalach is an auspicious act for receiving blessings of livelihood.

At this point, I decided to write up the story and emailed it to my list of friends. One rabbi replied that the Lubavitcher Rebbe wrote that reading Parshat ha-Mon strengthens two qualities: one’s faith (emunah) that all that we have comes from Hashem; and one’s confidence (bitachon) in difficult times that Hashem will provide our needs. The act of experiencing that faith and confidence is a vessel that brings down blessings.I have learned about three aspects of bounty. One, materially, is that Pashas ha-Mon offers a blessing for livelihood, especially, but not only, on the Tuesday of Parshat Beshalach. Second, spiritually, saying Parshat ha-Mon can strengthen our faith and confidence. Third, emotionally, there is benefit in following what stirs you emotionally.

When this story began, I did not know that this story would lead me to connections in my family’s personal history. I just felt a passionate stirring that I chose to value.So, go for it. Read Parshat ha-Mon. There is no guarantee that everyone who reads it will see a miracle. But, “you gotta play to win.”May it be that our spiritual and emotional connections to Torah and its precious words create a vessel for the ultimate bounty, with God’s ushering in the Messianic era.

Dr. Yisroel Susskind is a clinical psychologist who practices in Monsey, New York, and internationally over the telephone. Email him at eysusskind@aol.com.

Thousands of Women Gather in Support of R' Sholom M. Rubashkin

2012-01-29T11:13:00.000-05:00

Around 2,000 women from all walks of life gathered this past Tuesday evening in support of Sholom Mordechai Rubashkin. Ateres Charna was filled to near capacity as women gathered together in unity.

Mrs. Chayale Gourarie, sister of Sholom Mordechai, MC'd the evening and her words were inspiring to all.

Mrs. Suri Gluck sang emotional and heartwarming songs.

There was not a dry eye in the crowd as Mrs. Roza Weiss, daughter of Sholom Mordechai, described her fathers arrest and imprisonment.

Mrs. Leah Rubashkin, who is a pillar of strength giving chizzuk to all, captivated the crowd with her inspirational stories and the telling of the core of her amazing inner strength through Alef, Bais Gimmel.

The evening was capped with Alyza Lewin, Esq., one of Sholom Mordechai's attorneys, who, despite the late hour, held the crowd captivated with the story of the injustice done to Sholom Mordechai.

Mrs. Chani Lipschutz was honored for her endless support to the Rubashkin family.

Finally, the evening concluded with joyous dancing.

A stunning $7,000 diamond necklace (photo below), will be raffled off on April 3rd.A $36 donation toward Rubashkin's legal defense will get you one ticket $100 donation five tickets and $180 donation ten tickets.

You can mail your donation to:
Klal Yisroel Fund
53 Olympia Lane
Monsey, NY 10952
Please write "necklace raffle" in the memo.

Dovid Poltorak Brings Kosher to Capital Hill

2012-01-29T11:03:00.000-05:00

By Emma Dumain, Roll Call

A former intern’s crusade to bring kosher food back to the Senate bore fruit Monday with the beginning of a trial run at the Dirksen Senate Office Building’s cafeteria.Prepackaged sandwiches and salads “Made with Love” from Kosher caterer Bubbie’s Gourmet were stacked alongside standard fare. Options included a “Tuscan salad” of chickpeas, bow tie pasta and green beans, along with a balsamic chicken sandwich on flatbread.If all goes well, selections from Bubbie’s Gourmet could become fixtures of dining services offered all across the Senate side of the Capitol.

David Poltorak, an Orthodox Jew and recent Georgetown law school graduate who was then interning for freshman Sen. Mike Lee (R-Utah), began his quest for kosher last autumn.On his first day, he recalled going downstairs to one of the several cafeterias and carry-outs scattered throughout Senate office buildings.“Where’s the kosher food?” he asked.The answer: There was none. Nowhere on the Capitol campus could observant Jews find a premade meal.

Poltorak was told by Restaurant Associates, the private company that runs the Senate food services, that there was no kosher food because there was no demand.“I couldn’t believe there was no demand,” Poltorak said. “My first day here, I had, like, 10 kosher friends here working in Congress as staffers, and they said they wanted kosher food but had just never bothered to ask … they brought food from home or subsided on potato chips or peanuts.”Poltorak got by on peanuts, Diet Cokes and Mike and Ike candy during the course of his internship. “It’s not my style,” he said, to bring his lunch from home to avoid a kosher junk food diet.

To continue reading this article, please click here.

Tzivos Hashem Kiosk Comes to Cheder Chabad Boys Building

2012-01-29T10:58:00.000-05:00

The boys who participate in Tzivos Hashem of Monsey have much to be excited about!

Thanks to Yosef Hott and family a new kiosk machine was donated to MonseYouth and will be stationed in the Cheder Chabad Boys building.

Each child who signs up to Tzivos Hashem of Monsey receives an identification card with a bar code. With the new kiosk in place, the boys are now able to scan their achievement cards, check on what medals they earned, put in tickets for the auction and much more.

The kiosk has a scanner and a touch screen to enable children and teachers alike to benefit even more from the Tzivos Hashem program.

Litzman Shalom Zachor Tonight

2012-01-27T12:32:00.002-05:00

Chesky and Rochel Litzman will be making a Shalom Zachor for their newborn son tonight at their home, 8 Grosser Lane.

Room for Rent Available

2012-01-27T11:42:00.000-05:00

A spacious (17x11) newly built room, on ground level, with a private entrance is available for rent. Perfect for professional office or dorm. Airy and bright. Shared bath, kitchen, laundry facilities, large driveway, located in Wesley Hills, near Grandview Avenue and Route 306.

Please call 845-709-1376.

Seeking Apartment to Rent

2012-01-27T11:39:00.001-05:00

Seeking an apartment that is walking distance to Tzemach Tzedek that is airy with a private entrance, preferably 2 rooms with kitchen, for mature, responsible single woman.

Please call 845-499-0213.

Yud Shvat Farbrengen at Tzemach Tzedek

2012-01-27T10:08:00.001-05:00

There will be a special farbrengen at Tzemach Tzedek this Thursday night, February 2, in honor of Yud Shvat.

Maariv will be at 8:30 PM followed by the farbrengen.

Yud Shvat marks the histalkus of the Frierdiker Rebbe, Rabbi Yosef Yitzchak Schneersohn, the sixth Lubavitcher Rebbe, on Shabbos morning, the 10th of Shevat, of the year 5710 from creation (1950). One year later, at a gathering of Chassidim marking the first anniversary of histalkus, the Frierdiker Rebbe's son-in-law, Rabbi Menachem Mendel Schneerson, delivered a maamar entitled Basi L'Gani ("I Came into My Garden"), signifying his formal acceptance of the leadership of the Chabad-Lubavitch movement.

Free Mulch

2012-01-27T08:44:00.003-05:00

Untreated mulch is available for pick-up by Town of Ramapo residents free of charge.

Residents may pick-up as much as they need. Private landscapers are not eligible to participate.

Residents may pick up mulch at the Spook Rock Swimming Pool parking lot on Spook Rock Road, Suffern from 7:30 AM-5:30 PM daily (Monday-Sunday) starting immediately.

For safety and security reasons, after hours pick-up is strictly forbidden - violators will be prosecuted.

Rabbi Moshe Herson to Farbreng for Yud Shvat

2012-01-26T22:02:00.000-05:00

Rabbi Moshe Herson, head Shliach of New Jersey and dean of the Rabbinical College of America in Morristown, will be farbrenging in Monsey at Beis Menachem next Motzai Shabbos, Parshas Bshalach, February 4, at 8:30 PM in honor of Yud Shvat.

Yud Shvat marks the histalkus of the Frierdiker Rebbe, Rabbi Yosef Yitzchak Schneersohn, the sixth Lubavitcher Rebbe, on Shabbos morning, the 10th of Shevat, of the year 5710 from creation (1950). One year later, at a gathering of Chassidim marking the first anniversary of histalkus, the Frierdiker Rebbe's son-in-law, Rabbi Menachem Mendel Schneerson, delivered a maamar entitled Basi L'Gani ("I Came into My Garden"), signifying his formal acceptance of the leadership of the Chabad-Lubavitch movement.

Parsha Perspective

2012-01-26T21:52:00.004-05:00

By Rabbi Yisroel Shusterman, Dean, Cheder Chabad of Monsey

The Rebbe often emphasized that the review of the weekly Parsha, read weekly by Jews the world over, is not only for the sake of reminding ourselves of our long history and what happened to our great grandparents in days long bygone. Rather, the weekly Torah portion is for the sake of educating and instilling within us a more profound appreciation of our heritage and thereby enhancing our observance of Torah and Mitzvos today.

The ten plagues, discussed in these current Torah readings, which were inflicted upon the ancient Egyptians leading up to the Exodus from Egypt , have a message for us today. Let us take the Ninth plague, Darkness, which is in our current Torah reading this week.The Torah tells us that there were three days of "thick darkness." According to the Midrash, the Egyptians could not see, nor even move.

However, for the Jewish people it was different: they had light wherever they lived.The Sages discuss this idea. Does it mean that the darkness did not affect the specific area where the Jewish people dwelt, the Land of Goshen? Or the other hand, does it mean, more mysteriously and mystically, that for a Jew, even in the Egyptian areas, there was light in during this period of darkness?

As explained by the Rebbe, these two opinions relate to our view of the world. One view is that there is a deep separation between the holy (the Jewish area) and the unholy (the idols of Egypt). In the holy realm, it was light; in the unholy realm, it was dark.The second view is that the Jew in Egypt had the power to bring light to the realm of the unholy. Even in the Egyptian areas, where there was frighteningly thick darkness, the Jew could see.This relates to our role in the world. The Jew enters a realm of spiritual darkness, yet he or she has the power to bring light even into that darkness, to illuminate the homes of the "Egyptians," of the apparently secular and materialistic world. This freedom is not just for ourselves. We have the power of light in the darkness of Egypt so that we can bring light to the whole world –the light of Redemption.

Have a meaningful and uplifting Shabbos!

Extra Lainings This Shabbos

2012-01-26T15:23:00.002-05:00

As per the custom that everyone should have an aliya on the Shabbos prior to Yud Shvat, there will be extra lainings this Shabbos at Tzemach Tzedek beginning at 8:30 AM in the backroom of the shul and then multiple lainings during the regular laining time.

Beis Menachem will have multiple lainings during the regular laining time.

Warming the Soul

2012-01-26T10:39:00.000-05:00

By Sean Rugys, Rockland Jewish Reporter

The Fountain of Youth has eluded searching eyes for centuries. The reason this treasure has evaded so many for so long is simple: people have yet to check my grandmother’s soup pot!

As nearly all Jews will tell you, nothing in the world remedies the winter doldrums or an aching body like a big bowl of grandma’s chicken soup. Yet, what fix exists for the non-physical ailment - an aching heart?As a new college student and Jew long out of touch with his heritage, I learned that there exists no better remedy for a longing Jewish soul than the Center for Jewish Life at Rockland Community College, run by Hillel of Rockland.

As the carrots, sweet onion, and succulent chicken of a soup come together to give it its medicinal properties, so too does the Jewish culture, Torah knowledge, and sense of community that Hillel provides make it a haven for the Jewish student body.

Coming from a non-observant home in Upper Nyack, New York, I arrived at RCC with very little knowledge of Israel or Jewish culture. Like any kid growing up in a mildly religious home, my repertoire was limited to the basics: latkes, dreidels, and yarmulkes.

That is, until I met Rabbi Dov and Shevy Oliver. As the moving force behind Hillel, Rabbi Dov and Shevy used their worldly knowledge and extensive insight to bring the flair and essence of Israel to RCC.One of the Hillel activities that made the greatest impression on me was a campus-wide Israel Fair, providing students with a glimpse into historical Israeli landmarks. Walking from exhibit to exhibit, falafel in hand, my classmates and I witnessed the significance and spirituality of such sites as the Kotel, the holy city of Tzfat, the burial sites of Tiberias and the shores of Eilat.Hillel not only brings Jewish culture to the campus, but also delivers substantive Torah knowledge, with the intent of heightening our moral awareness and responsibilities as Jewish members of humanity.

Rabbi Oliver serves as a spiritual guide and teacher of Torah through such programs as “Nosh for the Soul,” expounding upon ideas in the weekly Torah parshah. Through such spiritual sustenance, I have gained a tremendous insight into the lives of our matriarchs and patriarchs, the historical lineage that precedes me. I have also developed many friendships through my involvement with Hillel.

The foremost defining feature of Hillel is the way it generates a sense of family and togetherness among people of different backgrounds through activities like concerts, lectures, workshops and Shabbat meals.My experience with Hillel was pivotal in contributing to my decision to dedicate all of next year to studying in Israel.

Sean Rugys of Upper Nyack is a sophomore in the Mentor/Talented Student Honors Program at Rockland Community College.

Thursday Women's Tanya Shiur Canceled

2012-01-26T08:01:00.001-05:00

This morning's Tanya shiur for women has been canceled.

Mes Mitzvah Opportunity

2012-01-25T22:19:00.000-05:00

A Jew who has very few relatives will have a Levaya tomorrow, Thursday, at 11:00 AM at Gates of Zion cemetery on Saddle River Road.

Eight men are needed to make sure there is a minyan for kaddish and enough to participate in the kvurah to bring this Yid to proper Kever Yisroel.

If you can make it, please contact Rabbi Chaim Zvi Ehrenreich at 914-393-3152 or chabadjec@aol.com.

Litzman Shalom Zachor

2012-01-25T22:15:00.001-05:00

Chesky and Rochel Litzman will be making a Shalom Zachor for their newborn son this Friday night at their home, 8 Grosser Lane.

Twelfth Siyum HaShas

2012-01-25T14:22:00.001-05:00

Seeking Kiddush Sponsor

2012-01-25T12:36:00.002-05:00

If you would like to co-sponsor the Kiddush & Farbrengen this Shabbos at Tzemach Tzedek, the Shabbos before Yud Shvat, please contact Moshe Reitman at 917-501-5537 or mdreitman@gmail.com.

Shiur at Heichal Menachem

2012-01-25T12:30:00.001-05:00

Tonight - Rubashkin Gathering for Women

2012-01-24T00:01:00.000-05:00

Mazel Tov Litzmans!

2012-01-23T21:06:00.001-05:00

Mazel tov to Chesky and Rochel Litzman on the birth of a baby boy!

Mazel tov to Mendy and Dani Litzman of Sydney, Australia, on the birth of a baby boy!

Mazel tov to the grandparents Reb Mordechai and Malka Litzman!

Shifra and Puah arranges homemade meals from people in the community for mothers of newborn children from our community. If you are able to cook a meal, please sign up on MealTrain or contact Karen Schild at 845-354-4898 or karenschild@yahoo.com.

Colonial for Sale in New Hempstead

2012-01-23T15:37:00.000-05:00

Machane Bnos Monsey Meet & Greet

2012-01-23T12:55:00.000-05:00

Click to enlarge.

Hebrew Academy of Morris County Shabbaton

2012-01-22T20:14:00.000-05:00

Last Shabbos, Parshas Shmos, the Monsey Chabad community hosted the 6th grade boys of the Hebrew Academy of Morris County. The class came for a second time to spend Shabbos with their teacher Rabbi Hami and the Monsey Chabad Kehilla.

This was an exciting experience for the boys that left them enthusiastic and excited about Shabbos and Yiddishkeit.The boys were especially moved by the amazing ruach of the boys of Kehilas Kol HaNearim davening Shabbos morning so much so, that even back in school the following week they were still taking about the energy in that minyan.

They also enjoyed participating in their first Shlaom Zachor in honor of Rabbi Blotner's newborn son and the diveri Torah that Rav Lesches shared at the occasion.Finally, the Shabbaton experience was topped of with a Melave Malka with a special guest. Reb Leib Schaeffer, First Lieutenant in the United States Marine Corps, came to farbreng with the boys and inspire them with stories from his military experience and the lessons in leadership and success that can be learned from them.

This was the boys' second Shabbos in Monsey. After having come two years ago in 4th grade, they demanded another opportunity to come and we look forward to hosting them again very soon.

Thank you to all of the Monsey Chabad Kehilla for making them feel welcome!

Mazel Tov Litkowskis!

2012-01-22T11:59:00.003-05:00

Mazel tov to Yisroel and Elana Litkowski on the birth of a baby boy!

Mazel tov to the grandparents Nachum and Chaya Litkowski!

Matzah Baking

2012-01-22T11:58:00.002-05:00

Matzah baking with Rabbi Yisroel Fried's group at the Crown Heights Bakery will take place on Sunday, January 29 (5 Shvat). There are two shifts - from 8:00 AM to 10:00 AM and from 10:00 AM to 12:00 Noon (or you can stay for the entire 4 hour shift).

As always, the matzahs are the highest level of hiddur. The utensils and keilim will be all new and every chumrah done in Chabad for Matzah baking will be implemented. Prices are unavailable at this point.

You can order Matzos without baking or bake without ordering.

If you would like to bake or order please contact Rabbi Fried at ryf@chabadwestside.org or 212-864-5010, or Doniel Goldfarb at dgoldfarb770@gmail.com.

A Parsha Perspective

2012-01-19T23:50:00.000-05:00

By Rabbi Yisroel Shusterman, Dean, Cheder Chabad of Monsey

Two Rabbis - One Shul

Sound like double trouble? Over-employment?Our people started out that way. Moshe could not, would not, lead alone; Aaron had to be there. Moshe's older brother never was quite his associate rabbi. Aaron was vastly more popular. He was the nice guy: arbitrator in congregants' business disputes, mediator in spousal clashes, peacemaker in sisterly spats, and conciliator for anyone with a teenager at home.Moshe was more the patrician than the paternal. The teacher, not the counselor; the lawgiver, not the therapist.Moshe embodied truth; Aaron embraced peace.

Truth demands integrity; peace requires compromise. Torah insists on both, hence a team was needed for the making of a people -- not an individual.Moshe rarely enjoyed public support; his method, leadership qualifications, and integrity were regularly challenged, and accusations of nepotism drained him. Aaron was rarely taken to task, and then only because of his association with you-know-who.

The brothers' dichotomy did not abate with their deaths; the turnout at Aaron's funeral nearly doubled Moses's. Not surprisingly, it was only upon Moshe's passing that despair threatened the people. But while Aaron's popularity earned him a larger funeral, Moshe's instruction earned him the role of leader. Aaron's passing evoked mourning; Moshe's passing created a terrifying void.

Leadership, like money, is appreciated when you don't have it.We need our Aarons and we need our Moshes . One without the other is unbalanced. If we favor the peace over truth because peace does not demand of us and truth does, we will get neither.

Throughout our Torah Parsha this week, we watch their interplay and interdependence. Such a harmonious balance, endures.

Have a meaningful and uplifting Shabbos!

(excerpts from chabad.org - Rabbi Shimon Posner)

Leiser Bris

2012-01-19T20:26:00.003-05:00

Dovid and Jessica Leiser will be making a Bris for their newborn son this Sunday, January 22, at Ashar, 70 Highview Road.

Davening will take place at 8:30 AM followed by the Bris at 9:30 AM.

Directory for Shluchim & Shluchos

2012-01-19T18:34:00.000-05:00

By collive.com

A directory of resources and programs that will benefit Shluchim and Shluchos is being compiled by two Shluchos and will be distributed in the near future.The list will include creative ideas that are useful in Chabad Centers, for daily use or special events and programs. Ideas range from technology, education, entertainers, gifts for baalei batim, Holiday concepts, and more.

"Shluchim spend so much time researching their ideas, only to find out later it is already available," Mrs. Hadassah Geisinsky, Shlucha in the Five Towns, told COLlive. "And the people who have spent time and money to arrange for these items are always looking for ways to get the word out."

The Shluchos working to compile the directory welcome any and all ideas/businesses that can benefit Chabad Houses and Shluchim, at no cost to the business or Shluchim. The only thing the vendor must agree to is offer a shliach 10 percent off his first purchase with mention of the directory.

"It's a win-win situation for both parties involved," says Geisinsky.

To be included in this list please email your name, business, a paragraph describing what you offer, phone number, email addressand websiteas soon as possible to hadassah@chabad5towns.com or yya.nbb@gmail.com.

We look forward to being able to assist Shluchim in the Rebbe's work while helping your business flourish.

Rosh Chodesh Shvat Farbrengen

2012-01-19T18:24:00.004-05:00

There will be a farbrengen in honor of Rosh Chodesh Shvat this Tuesday night, January 24, following the 9:30 PM Maariv minyan at Tzemach Tzedek.

Shabbos Halacha Shiur

2012-01-19T18:23:00.003-05:00

This week's Shabbos afternoon Shulchan Aruch shiur will take place at 4:15 PM at Tzemach Tzedek.

YMMLM Bochurim Farbreng

2012-01-19T14:38:00.001-05:00

The Bochurim of Yeshivas Menachem Mendel Lubavitch of Monsey farbrenged last night with Rabbi Zalmen L. Markowitz at the home of Yeshiva benefactor Reb Avraham Hayman.

Mazel Tov Kagans!

2012-01-19T11:28:00.002-05:00

Mazel tov to Rabbi and Mrs. Chaim Dovid and Miriam Kagan on the birth of a grandson born to Mendy and Chana Rochel Zwiebel of Chico, California!

Polter L'Chaim

2012-01-18T23:19:00.001-05:00

Rabbi Mendel Polter at the l'chaim of his daughter Liba Sheva to Tzvi Hirsh Sputz of Crown Heights.

Photos: Yisroel Schulman

Boys Shabbos Mevorchim Program

2012-01-18T23:14:00.001-05:00

Leiser Shalom Zachor

2012-01-18T15:49:00.000-05:00

Dovid and Jessica Leiser will be making a Shalom Zachor for their newborn son this Friday night at their home, 4 Ayden Court.

Rubashkin Rally in Monsey

2012-01-18T15:25:00.000-05:00

Chof Daled Teves Farbrengen at Heichal Menachem

2012-01-17T21:26:00.001-05:00

Hundreds Enjoy Chanale Concert

2012-01-16T22:36:00.000-05:00

More than 400 women and girls attended the Chanale concert that was organized by the Cheder Chabad PTA last night.

The evening was MCd with beautiful and inspiring words from Mrs. Leah Rubashkin who introduced the Kol Isha Choir. After their melodious and very beautiful singing, the dynamic Esther Freeman took the stage and enthralled the audience. Her lyrics were thoughtful, original and she was very charismatic.

Following an intermission, the star of the evening, Chanale Fellig, sang with great poise and professionalism. Her powerful songs were moving in more ways than one as she actually managed to get most of the audience out of their chairs and dancing!

At the end of the evening there was a raffle draw which produced some very happy and satisfied winners.

The PTA would like to thank all those who helped and all those who came and supported the evening.

Father & Son Learning Motzai Shabbos Shmos

2012-01-16T22:29:00.000-05:00

It is to beautiful to see so many fathers and their sons sitting together learning on Motzai Shabbos at the father & son learning program sponsored by Cheder Chabad. The learning is followed by the Psukim being recited and a raffle for a pocket set of Mishnayos.

This past Motzai Shabbos, Parshas Shmos, in honor of the Yahrzeit of the Rambam all of the boys enjoyed pizza after their learning along with a beautiful story about the Rambam.

All elementary-school age boys are invited to attend father -son learning this Motzai Shabbos with their fathers.

Mazel Tov Polters - L'chaim!

2012-01-15T14:16:00.000-05:00

Mazel tov to Rabbi and Mrs. Mendel and Dina Polter on the engagement of their daughter Liba Sheva to Tzvi Hirsh Sputz (ben R' Aaron) of Crown Heights!

The l'chaim will take place this Tuesday night, January 17, at Lubavitch Yeshiva in Crown Heights.