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AMAZING Reaction to Gesher’s Evening of Excellence
David Weiss and Rabbi Dov Edell
The word “amazing” was heard over and over. As were “beautiful” “incredible” and “extraordinary.” The combination of elegant décor with fine wines and scrumptious fare was a hit. Gesher’s “Experience of Excellence and Grace” was true to its trademark of high quality synergy and service. The standing room only crowd was treated to a three tiered delight of the senses. “The Studio is absolutely stunning” was an oft-repeated reaction. Rachel and Sam Septimus’ showroom of interior design is an unmatched treat for the eyes. Its artistic blend of colors, shapes, and textures inspires creativity. It served as the perfect background for the striking display of palatable pleasures. The eye-catching arrangements of salads, cheeses, and pastries enhanced the ambiance. These delicacies, produced by the very popular Upper Crust, were a distinct treat. The main attraction was the outstanding selection of fine wines. Mark Glicksman transformed the receptionist area into a vibrant exhibit. And the guests enjoyed his pleasant manner as he served and poured glass after glass. But the talk of the evening was about the Gesher Early Childhood Center. Gesher has made quite an impact in just its first year. Its mission is to provide unprecedented support for preschool
Ephraim Kutner and Rabbi Azi Bodner
children whose educational needs are not being met in the mainstream classroom. Gesher has bridged the yeshiva day school curriculum with the quality of support services traditionally found only in the non-sectarian sector. The crowd was awed by a short, yet powerful video. In the video, parents expressed how extremely grateful they are that the Gesher program is available. They describe the many positive experiences that attest to Gesher’s commitment to fully develop their children, emotionally and educationally. Additionally, several local educators articulated the benefit that Gesher provides to the whole community. Rabbi Yaakov Bender of Yeshiva Darchei Torah, Rabbi Dovid Plotkin of HALB, and Mrs. Elana Fertig of the Yeshiva of South Shore extolled the praises of the Gesher staff led by Mrs. Chava Bodner. Various related service providers detailed how excited they are that the Gesher model proactively carries over suggestions and methods from other disciplines. Gesher’s enthusiastic teaming creates a strong support unit; connecting parents, teachers, and therapists. After the video, many of the guests shared with Mrs. Bodner how inspired they were by her dedication and professionalism. The diverse crowd was evi-
Michael Kimmel and Ilan Kranz
dence that learning differences can be found across the community. And Gesher is prepared to provide its vital services to all.
Aryeh Freund and Yoni Kutner
Gesher can be reached at 516-7307377 and at gesherschool@gmail.com. For more information and to view the informative videos, please visit www. gesher-ecc.org.
Reflections on Mesivta Yam Hatorah’s Annual Retreat
On Wednesday, May 22, Mesivta Yam Hatorah went on their annual end-of-the-year weekday retreat. This year, the trip was to the Pocono Mountains where the boys enjoyed paintball at Skirmish U.S.A. and white water rafting on the Leigh High River. Wednesday night the boys were treated to a delicious BBQ and enjoyed the amenities of their accommodations which included ping pong, air hockey, pool, shuffle board, and darts. However, the highlight of the trip was the inspiring kumzitz led by Chesky Steiner, a 10th grader, playing the guitar. The kumzitz included a meaningful Dvar Torah from Rabbi Avi Pollak, the Rosh Mesivta, who spoke about the importance of both learning Torah and laboring in Torah. The evening ended with a moving speech from the Menahel, Rabbi Eli Zoldan, who thanked all the Rebbeim and students for another
amazing year. He also reinforced the message that has become the banner of the Yeshiva, the unique Rebbi-talmid relationship, by stating to the boys how much each Rebbi in the Mesivta really cares for each boy and views them as his own child. He said, “Tonight each one of your Rebbeim left their children at home so they can spend time with their other children.” He ended off with a farewell speech to the graduating class commenting on how each one has really grown throughout their years in the Mesivta. The Mesivta would like to thank Rabbi Yonah Stern, the Mesivta's program director, for putting together a trip that will be remembered for years to come. Registration is still open for the 2013-2014 school year. For further information, please call 718-471-7471 or e-mail mesivtayamhatorah@gmail.com.
71 T h e J e w i s h H o m e n j u n e 6 , 2013
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