Issue 023

7 MILLION DECORATIONS

the Sukkah

This Sukkos, we’re celebrating nearly $7 million saved for our community. That’s thousands of women walking into Yom Tov smiling, confident, and knowing they didn’t overspend to look their best.

At Zissy, it’s all about the latest fashions and brand-new-stock collections... at factory-direct prices. It’s why our Wig Week events have become the talk of every community.

And for kallahs and machatenistas, we give extra special attention. Private consultations with Zissy herself. Full wig wardrobes for Shabbos and weekday. All the newest looks — at a fraction of the cost. Because saving millions isn’t just about money. It’s what we proudly call a Z'man Simchaseinu.

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למיירטש רעד ,ןייש למיירטשזיארעד

70 Years of Sukkah Hopping

Whether for luxurious desserts or chol hamoed treats, Klein’s is invited to Sukkahs the world over, bringing the real good stuff to the table. As always, it’s an honor being your guest.

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INBOX

WE THE READERS

(Re: We the People, Issue 022)

I’m sure I’m not alone when I say that I’m loving the new serial We the People! I was devastated when I sensed Give or Take coming to a close. We the People is totally different, but it definitely feeds my fiction hunger!

I’m sure I speak for many readers when I say that I really appreciate that you offer such high-quality and fascinating fiction every week.

A Fiction Fan

SIMCHAS YOM TOV

(Re: Rosh Hashanah Issue, Issue 021)

I want to extend my sincere thanks for going the extra mile in publishing a Rosh Hashanah issue. Your dedication and hard work don’t go unnoticed. Although I’ve never written in before, I felt compelled to acknowledge your efforts.

Having meaningful and appropriate reading material available during Yom Tov significantly enhances my experience (and for many others, too, I’m sure). Your commitment to providing such content is both admirable and impactful.

Keep up the excellent work!

FOR REAL THIS TIME

(Re: The Resolution That Lasted, Issue 020)

An Avid Reader

Thank you for printing the stories of how people made real changes in their lives. I get so discouraged every year when my kabbalos are exactly the same as the year before. Each of the stories had another angle on how to make it stick for real, which gave me real tools

I think if I had gone to a shmuess and heard these ideas, nothing would have moved me. But the way it was presented, in such a frank and honest way by people who sound just like me, made a very big impact on me.

As for me, I found that once I get the yetzer hara out of the house, it feels final, and

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there’s no going back. For instance, by throwing away an article of clothing that’s questionable, I make sure that I really won’t wear it anymore. It’s hard to fight the battle every day. It’s easier to eliminate the temptation altogether.

N.S.

OUT OF CONTROL

(Re: Tragic Destination, Inbox, Issue 018)

I’ve been following the conversation regarding nonJewish nurses or babysitters caring for Jewish children. On Rosh Hashanah, I watched from my window as a non-Jewish woman took a walk with two frum children. I estimate that the younger child was about two and the older one about four or five years old. The older child wanted to enter a shul they were passing, and convinced the clueless babysitter to go in through the men’s entrance. A little later, they were outside again, and the two kids got out of hand — they were running around outside, and the babysitter was frantically trying to catch both of them. When she finally did, she tried taking them across the street, but the five-year-old ran away. The babysitter was running back and forth in the middle of the street trying to get the children under control.

Parents, please think twice before entrusting your precious children with others.

Name Withheld

YOUR SAY

MI

K’AMCHA YISROEL

I wanted to share a beautiful episode that I witnessed.

My neighbor’s fridge-freezer died on Erev Rosh Hashanah, and she called several frum repairmen. They each tried troubleshooting with her over the phone, giving her a lot of (unbillable) time on such a busy day, but each, in turn, said they could not help her.

A couple hours later, one of the repairmen called her back. He still couldn’t help her but he wanted to know if someone had fixed her fridge. He was worried about how her family would manage over Yom Tov. That’s the heart of a Yid!

Then another frum repairman came down to her house on this incredibly busy day on the small chance he would be able to fix it. (He wasn’t able to.)

My neighbor was so moved by the true concern these (non-) strangers displayed. She commented, “We’re used to singing the praises of the yungerleit who sit and learn all day (as we should), but look at what kind of people our appliance repairmen are!” I’m sure it was a tremendous zechus for them and all of Klal Yisroel on the Yom Hadin the following day.

When the neighbors heard what was going on, they instantly organized a solution. Several neighbors made space in their own packed fridges and freezers for her Yom Tov food and other perishables, and another neighbor lent her a 3.3 cubic-foot mini fridge. What other culture or society lends people refrigerators?!

Mi k’amcha Yisroel!

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FROM MASSIVE BACKYARD SUKKAHS TO TINY PORCHES, WE

ASKED READERS TO SHARE HOW THEY “SUKKAH.”

My in-laws recently started setting up a sleeping sukkah — such a game-changer. The men don’t bother making their beds, and the women don’t set foot in there, which is, of course, the best part of this setup.

My parents’ sukkah is L-shaped, with one side for eating and the other for sleeping and kids bouncing off the walls. My parents hang a curtain to separate the two zones, allowing guests to be hosted in style. The sleeping area is strictly for men and kids; we women steer clear until Simchas Torah, when we finally step in and uncover a treasure trove of odd socks, yarmulkes, toys and mystery items galore.

REGARDLESS OF THEIR TECHNICAL SETUPS, ALL RESPONDENTS LIT UP WITH WARMTH AND NOSTALGIA WHEN DESCRIBING THEIR SUKKAH ARRANGEMENTS. THE MEALS, THE MESS AND THE MATTRESS JUGGLING — THEY’RE ALL PART OF THE MAGIC AND MEMORIES OF THIS SPECIAL YOM TOV.

Our outdoor sukkah measures 40 feet by 90 feet. Really nice and roomy! About three or four years ago, we added a smaller attached sukkah for sleeping, which fits several folding beds. We used to fold them up each morning, but now we just leave them out. Simple and super functional.

Our sukkah measures approximately 150 square feet and is set up outdoors. Currently, since we have only two people sleeping in the sukkah, we use a standard high-riser bed. In the morning, we simply push it to the side and cover it nicely, and there’s still plenty of space to move around. One day, I’d love to sew a special ushpizin-themed sukkah bed cover… when I find the time.

Our sukkah is long and narrow, tucked into a corner of our building’s courtyard. When we moved in, all the neighbors had already “claimed” their sukkah spots, so we had to get creative with the space that was left.

For now, it’s just my husband who sleeps in the sukkah. We schlep his mattress out each night, and unless I want the bed to become the official collection site for all the postmeal crumbs, we have to drag it back inside every morning.

When I got married, I discovered — much to my horror — that my in-laws don’t sleep in the sukkah. I was shocked. I mean, isn’t the whole point of Sukkos to live in the sukkah? It was always part of the Yom Tov magic for me. Pillows flying around the house all afternoon, mattress-jumping, epic pillow fights, and late-night arguments about whose foot was too close to whose head and conversations about who heard a mosquito buzzing in the dark.

Then came the year I spent Yom Tov with my in-laws. I bravely brought up the topic, only to be met with solemn faces and the tale of a great-great-uncle who once caught pneumonia from sleeping in the sukkah and was unfortunately niftar.

Nevertheless, I still quietly mourn the future of my boys who will never know the thrill of a sukkah slumber party.

Baruch Hashem, we have a giant sukkah, so space is definitely not an issue. It’s on the outdoor porch, and we’ve set it up with a table on one side, and an egg chair “couch” and sleeping area on the other. We bring in a high-riser bed for the two we use daily. The bed stays in place throughout Yom Tov, dressed up with a decorative throw and some pillows to make it double as a cozy couch during the day.

One year, my parents needed both a new shed and a new sukkah, so they got creative. They went down to Lancaster, Pennsylvania, where you can customize your own shed, and had one built with a roof that lifts with a crank. All it takes is two minutes to transform the shed into a sukkah.

The shed is quite large, so when Sukkos comes around, they move everything to one end and use the rest as a fully functional sukkah. It accommodates two folding beds, a large table suitable for their family of eight, and even features a refrigerator and freezer. Each morning, they fold up the beds to make room for chairs around the table. They bless these arrangements every day of Yom Tov.

We’re lucky to have a very spacious splintery-board kind of sukkah. Our sukkah is located in a courtyard alongside many other neighbors’ sukkahs.

One year, my brother stayed at our house for Yom Tov along with a few friends, and we hosted them all for the Shabbos Sukkos day meal. In the flurry of Erev Yom Tov prep, I had completely forgot to cook eggs.

My husband turned to my brother jokingly and ordered, “Hershy, go ask the neighbors if they have eggs to spare.”

“No way, Yanky, you go!” my brother said to his friend.

And then it turned into a full-on chant: “Ei-yehr, ei-yehr, ei-yehr… inz darfen ei-yehr!” We were cracking up (pun fully intended).

Long story short? A neighbor knocked on our door to bring us some eggs (already mashed, mind you). No one even had to get up from their seats! Bochurim magic to an eggstreme!

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My grandparents live in a house with a sukkah roof built into the top-floor bedroom. One Sukkos night, my brother went to sleep with my grandfather. All night long, he was blissfully soaking in how deliciously warm it was and thinking how geshmak it was to have a sukkah in a heated bedroom.

Only in the morning did he discover that the sukkah roof had been closed the entire night!

Our sukkah is literally under a neighbor’s sukkah, to the right of another neighbor’s sukkah, to the left of a third neighbor’s sukkah, and above another neighbor’s sukkah. Yes, so we let our neighbors know when their shlak inadvertently stays closed.

Knowing we are surrounded by people who are listening in to the loud and rowdy conversations happening around the table in our sukkah is an excellent trick for shemiras halashon, and we even have a key word to help us out. Whenever anyone starts speaking about a different person or family, someone remembers to yell, “The Horowitzes from Florida!” — and that’s it. Conversation is over.

Our sukkah is located indoors, just off the living room, and comfortably seats about ten people. We only need one bed inside, and we use a couch for that. In the morning, we usually push it back into the house to keep the eating area spacious. We absolutely love Sukkos. There’s nothing like the singing that drifts in from all the neighbors!

MEAT קיזחמה הבורמה

תא

קיזחמה הבורמה תא

1 2 3 4 5 6

SUKKOS

A Beautiful

Esrog

Y. Levenstein

The Torah describes the focal mitzvah of Sukkos, the arba minim, saying, “And you shall take for yourselves on the first day, the fruit of the hadar tree (the esrog), date palm branches (the lulav), a branch of a braided tree (the hadassim), and willows of the brook (the aravos)” (Vayikra 23:40).

The first of the four species to be mentioned is the esrog. However, we see that when it comes to reciting the bracha, we say, “Al netilas lulav” — mentioning the lulav first.

Since the lulav is bound together with the hadassim and aravos, it holds the majority of the minim, and as the tallest of the three, it takes precedence. It sounds like the lulav is the most chashuv. If so, the pasuk should have begun with the lulav. Why does it mention the esrog first?

ONE YEAR, a Yid brought a beautiful esrog as a gift to the first Bobover Rebbe, Reb Shlomo of Bobov, zt”l. The esrog was breathtaking. It had a gorgeous shape and a striking, glowing color. It was completely clean, without a single discoloration or defect, and its stem protruded perfectly from a neat depression at the bottom.

Reb Shlomo marveled over the exquisite esrog, and it soon became the talk of town. Everyone in Bobov heard that the Rav had received a mehudar’dig esrog the likes of which had never been seen before.

The first day of Sukkos arrived, and the time came to shake the lulav and esrog. The crowd craned their necks to catch a glimpse of the Rav’s beautiful daled minim, and they were surprised to see a simple-looking esrog in the Rav’s hands. It didn’t appear quite as gorgeous as the esrog they had heard so much about!

Apparently, Reb Shlomo had left his gorgeous gift in his sukkah at home, and brought a different esrog to shul. Though everyone won-

dered why, nobody had the courage to ask. Nobody, that is, besides one curious bochur. When the Rav passed his set of arba minim to the crowd so everyone could have a turn to say the bracha and shake his lulav, the bochur ran to the Rav’s house. He wanted to see the magnificent esrog that everyone was talking about.

He entered the sukkah and saw the box on the table. Hands quivering from excitement and nervousness over what he was about to do, he opened it up and removed the esrog It was a sight to behold. But since his fingers were shaking, the esrog suddenly slipped out of his hands and fell to the ground. The bochur was absolutely terrified. He quickly lifted the esrog and put it back in the box, and then ran out of the sukkah as fast as his legs could carry him. Afraid of the Rav’s hakpadah, he didn’t know where to run. His heart hammered so loud, he was sure anyone around him could hear it. He locked himself inside a room and cried.

When Reb Shlomo came back into his sukkah, he immediately perceived that somebody had touched his esrog. He carefully opened the box and lifted the radiant esrog But alas, the esrog wasn’t as radiant as it had been before. Just beneath its pitom, the Rebbe could see a pin sticking out. Earlier, the pin had been embedded into the esrog so perfectly that it was hidden from sight, but now that the esrog had fallen to the floor, the pin had loosened. Evidently, the pin had been used to connect the pitom to the esrog! The magnificent esrog had been completely unqualified for use all along.

* * * * *

The mitzvah of esrog was very precious to Rav Bentzion Felman, zt”l. Already during the summer months, when he vacationed in the town of Beis Meir, he would be on the lookout for a nice esrog. At the edge of the town lived a man who grew an esrog tree on his property, and every year, Reb Bentzion would search for that perfect esrog.

The esrog suddenly slipped out of his hands and fell to the ground. The bochur was absolutely terrified

Why was he offering me this unusable esrog as a “gift”?

One year, he managed to find an absolutely magnificent esrog. His chavrusa, Reb Moshe Kaplan, relates:

It was in Chodesh Elul. Just after I finished learning with Reb Bentzion, he turned to me and said, “I have a magnificent esrog for you. Its shape and color are just perfect, and it has no spots. I haven’t seen such a gorgeous esrog in years.

“I want to give it to you,” Reb Bentzion continued, “but I don’t want to bring it to the beis midrash. If others see it, they may envy you. Come to my house, and I’ll show it to you.”

I was excited to see the esrog, and I went that very evening to Reb Bentzion’s home. I watched as Reb Bentzion gingerly opened the box and removed the esrog. He gently unwrapped the flax, excitement evident on his face.

Reb Bentzion handed it over to me, and I turned it from side to side. What I beheld nearly took my breath away. I had never before seen the likes of it. The esrog was a beauty.

But then I thought to myself that it couldn’t be that Reb Bentzion had found two esrogim of such caliber. Why did he want to give me the esrog he should have kept for himself?

“I cannot take such a beautiful esrog away from you,” I told Reb Bentzion. “What about yourself?”

“Nah,” Reb Bentzion waved away my concern. “I already have one for myself. I saved this esrog for you.”

I tried to persuade him to keep it, but Reb Bentzion was firm. He took the esrog back, wrapped it in flax, replaced it in its box, and gave it to me.

But as he put the box into my hands, he whispered, “Reb Moshe, don’t say a bracha on this esrog on Sukkos.”

“What?” I said in shock. “Why not? This esrog is so perfect — of course it should be used on Sukkos!”

“Well, it’s murkav.”

I couldn’t believe it. Was this flawless esrog really grafted, making it disqualified for use?

But there was an even more disturbing question bothering me. If this esrog was not as perfect as it seemed after all, then why did my eminent chavrusa trouble me to come down to his home to see it? Why was he offering me this unusable esrog as a “gift”?

Before I could voice my confusion, Reb Bentzion explained. “You know, the esrog corresponds to the heart. Sometimes, a person may look beautiful on the outside, but inside, he is ‘murkav.’ In his heart, he is not as perfect as he appears to others. But Hashem, the bochen klayos v’lev, sees right through it. If the heart is ‘murkav,’ all external righteousness is worthless. And that is the main focus of our avodas Hashem — that our hearts be complete!”

The Sifsei Kohen Al HaTorah explains the well-known Midrash that teaches that the arba minim hint at our human body parts. The esrog represents the heart, the lulav the spine, the hadassim the eyes, and the aravos refer to the lips.

The pasuk begins, “U’lakachtem lachem — you shall take for yourselves” (Vayikra 23:40). In other words, when one takes the arba minim, he must not take only the four species; he must take himself along with them.

To this end, the pasuk begins with the esrog. The esrog signifies the heart. The Torah tells us: Take your heart. Invest your heart in the mitzvah, since everything begins with the heart, the focal part of a person, from which all body parts branch out. If the heart works well, the entire body is in good shape. Similarly, if a person has a pure heart, the rest of his being will be pure as well.

The Mishnah in Avos (2:8–9) tells us that Reb Yochanan ben Zakkai asked his primary talmidim which trait is most valued. Each of the Tannaim responded differently. Reb Elazar ben Arach said, “Lev tov — a good heart.” Reb Yochanan ben Zakkai praised Reb Elazar’s answer above all, since his words include all that the others said. If one has a good heart, he will automatically have all the other good middos the other Tannaim listed.

When Reb Yochanan ben Zakkai asked the question in reverse — which middah one should stay away from — once again, Reb Elazar’s answer prevailed. Lev ra, a wicked heart, is the worst trait of all.

Thus, we see that the primary human organ is the heart, since the entire person is drawn after the feelings it contains.

THE W MALL

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!םייחל !ס’רעפיול זיא’ס

The Williamsburg View is excited to bring to you a new weekly column with the renowned Mordechai Weinberger, LCSW, a trusted therapist in our community for over 20 years. Known for his Kol Mevaser program and his bestselling books, he now brings his expertise to our readership. Every week, you will have the opportunity to send in your questions to be personally addressed by Mordechai in this column.

Dear Therapist,

Every Sukkos, my mother insists the whole family get together. But one of my brothers and his wife always create tension — he picks on someone, there’s an argument, and my mother ends up in tears. I don’t want to expose myself or my children to that again, but I also know it would really hurt my mother if I don’t come.

How can I handle this without causing more pain?

—Torn Between Fighting and Kibbud Eim

Dear Torn,

Thank you for your honest and thoughtful question. You’ve brought up something many people are silently struggling with, and it’s time we speak about it openly and with compassion. What you’re describing is not just a family fight; it’s about the internal conflict between emotional safety and family loyalty, between protecting your peace and honoring your parents.

There’s a growing mindset today that says: “If something is uncomfortable, I’m out. My mental health comes first.” While it’s essential that we honor our emotional boundaries and protect ourselves from true harm, I have seen that this idea is not always applied properly. I see a trend where people treat discomfort as danger, and when faced with difficult people, act as if they can just eliminate them from their life.

The result I see is more and more people cutting family members out of their lives because “they’re too hard to be around.” It’s like we’re equating a complicated family member with a telemarketer — something to block or hang up on. But family relationships aren’t so black and white. In therapy, particularly Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), there’s a concept called “shades of gray.” It helps people recognize and challenge all-or-nothing thinking. This kind of thinking sounds like, “If I go to the family gathering, I’ll fall apart,” or “If I skip it, I’m a bad daughter.” Life rarely operates in extremes. Most situations — and people — fall somewhere in the middle.

Let’s take this further. In CBT, we often ask clients to rate their experiences on a scale from 1 to 10. For example, you might say, “When I’m with my family before my brother arrives, I’m at an 8 — calm and happy. When he walks in, it drops to a 4. If he starts picking on someone, I feel like I’m at a 2. If there’s yelling, I go down to a 0.” That’s powerful awareness. But instead of concluding, “If I hit 0, I can’t go at all,” CBT encourages us to ask: “What would help me stay at a 5 or move back up to a 6?”

Let’s explore some healthy, realistic options.

1. Plan Mini-Escapes

You can decide in advance that if tensions rise, you’ll take your children for a walk, go sit in a different room, or even plan a timed check-in with yourself: “I’ll stay for two hours, and then say I have another seudah to go to.” Knowing you have an exit plan reduces the sense of being trapped, which can lower your overall stress.

2. Talk to Your Mother in Advance

You can have a gentle conversation with your mother, saying, “I really want to be part of the Chol Hamoed family get-together, and I love being there. But I’ve noticed that sometimes things get tense and there’s conflict. Would it

I see a trend where people treat discomfort as danger, and when faced with difficult people, act as if they can just eliminate them from their life

Learn a simple proven method on releasing emotions. Let go of distressing emotions and access your inner power. Get in touch with your true light and reclaim your splendor. Experience peace, acceptance, and connection to Hashem.

be okay if, when I see a situation heating up, I quietly step outside with my kids for a little break?” This allows you to be present and honor her, while also protecting yourself.

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3. Coordinate With Other Siblings

If you have other siblings who also feel the tension, you can speak to them in advance and say, “Let’s all commit that no matter what he says, we won’t react. If we stay calm and don’t respond, it might reduce the blow-ups.” Family dynamics often follow patterns, and breaking the cycle starts with one person refusing to play the old role.

4. Stay for Some, Skip the Rest

If you still feel attending the whole get together is more than you can handle, find a compromise. Come for a seudah on Yom Tov instead. Or join the family for the first days and not Chol Hamoed. The message isn’t, “I’m abandoning the family,” but rather, “I’m part of the family; the get-together just didn’t work out for me.”

Now here’s something even more powerful: when you learn how to navigate difficult environments with boundaries and composure, you’re not just helping yourself; you’re modeling strength for your children. You’re showing them that you can be around challenging people without becoming like them. You’re showing them that you can stay anchored in your values even when others lose theirs. You’re also showing them that family doesn’t need to be perfect in order to be embraced.

This isn’t just about Sukkos. This is a life skill — for the workplace, shul, friends and future in-laws. The ability to hold your ground, step away calmly when needed, and still return with dignity is a skill worth developing.

Yes, there may be difficult moments. Yes, your brother may say something sharp or inconsiderate. But when you learn to see the situation through the lens of “shades of gray,” it becomes more manageable. You realize that it’s not all good or all bad; it’s a mix. And in that mix, there’s still room for love, connection and kibbud eim.

In the end, your presence at the family get-together, even if imperfect, might be the biggest gift you can give your mother — and yourself.

May your home and heart be filled with peace, clarity and the strength to navigate life’s challenges with wisdom and warmth.

Gut Yom Tov! Mordechai

Mordechai Weinberger, LCSW is the Executive Director of Serenity Center Clinic in Monsey, where he leads a team of 40+ therapists treating children, teenagers and adults. The clinic provides care for depression, anxiety, OCD, marriage challenges, addiction and more. For more information, call 845286-2210 or visit serenityctr.com.

Almost here..

GITTI BEILIS

PROLOGUE

APRIL 2025

Ifelt the stares before I saw them.

You know how it is. First it’s a little prickle in the center of your back. Then it crawls up between your shoulder blades.

Then, when I peeked, I saw the stares

Don’t be paranoid, I whispered to myself. Ignore it, and enjoy the day with your princesses

It was Sunday, a refreshing, sun-drenched morning after an endless week of gray, slapping April showers that had chilled us to the cores. I was out shopping with my little girls, Tillie, age six, and Malky, age four. The grocery was packed with shoppers, and smiles abounded as customers compared purchases, snatched up sale items and careened around carts in preparation for another week.

It had been months since I had set foot in a retail store. My errands were taken care of virtually, via phone and standing orders as I juggled therapies and appointments, doctors and specialists, and the occasional quick-fix quack. While time had not grown kinder to me, and evenings seemed to come faster and faster each

day, today I was determined to enjoy a luxury outing where I actually got to touch the tomatoes and smell the salmon. At eleven and twelve years old respectively, Yanky and Chesky were in cheder until later in the afternoon, I was starved for a visit to the “real world,” and with our first bar mitzvah looming on the horizon, I was relishing the idea of spending an hour or two with only my baby girls at my side, pretending I was just brushing past 25. Tillie was on a loud and shameless ramble about first-grade politics.

“And then Chumy said that Raizele can’t be in our shtick” — was shtick this generation’s word for clique? — “so Raizele started crying, and the teacher asked her why, and then Raizele lied, okay Mommy? She is a LIE PERSON! ‘Cuz really Chumy only said...”

The story continued in virtuous indignance, with me clicking and clucking over Raizele’s alleged travesties and Chumy’s presumed innocence.

Stare. Stare. Staaaaare.

Was it Tillie’s loud diatribe? Nah. There were louder kids around, some having full-fledged tantrums, and none were zoche to this level of attention.

Something up with Malky?

I WAS STARVED FOR A VISIT TO THE “REAL WORLD”

A quick check in the stroller assured me that all was well. She was finishing the last bits of her Puffs, diligently moving on to the most important part of a four-year-old’s snacking ritual: tearing open the bag and licking the silver foil interior to a shiny, mirrored finish.

WHAT WAS GOING ON? I WAS NOT IMAGINING THE

I would never get tired of kvelling at the antics of Malky, my miracle child, and would’ve happily stayed standing in the middle of traffic just to watch her finish licking her snack bag clean. But Tillie was hungry, and she was urgently pulling at the stroller, intent on getting her promised lunch.

I maneuvered the stroller through the glassedin front entrance of the local pizzeria and to the magnetic smell of melted cheese, oregano and warm tomato sauce.

Stare.

An unflinching pair of eyes was definitely following my little clan. I looked up and found the culprit: a high school girl wearing a midi skirt and waiting to pay for her foamy latte. Her eyes were locked on my little crew.

Drawing upon memories of my fourth-grade self, I stared straight back at her and raised my right eyebrow. She responded with a quick intake of breath followed by a weak smile, and then she magically melted away.

So my maturity needed an emergency upgrade, but what was going on? I was not imagining the stares. I took a look at my kids again. Cute matching outfits, coordinating clips, no ketchup stains. But something about us was drawing attention.

Don’t think about it, I told myself. That girl is just a tired high school girl in that familiar Sunday daze, who only snaps out of it in severe embarrassment when the kind woman she’s staring at smiles and waves in her face.

But despite my valiant efforts to ignore them, the stares called to me, waved to me and mocked me at every corner. By the time Tillie was satisfied with her choice of seats and Malky had arranged her plate, fork and straw to restaurant-level precision, the sizzling feelings inside me were overpowering the sizzling cheese on the pizza I was bringing to the table.

I doled out the food and brachos were chanted out loud. I inhaled the deliciousness of the scene, making a mental note to compliment Malky’s OT on her improved knife skills, the SLP on the improved chewing and swallowing, and Tillie’s teacher on their highly successful brachos contest. I settled into a chair, ready to eat something myself, but felt my appetite dis-

STARES

sipate with a renewed round of intense scrutiny.

Surreptitious stares were coming from every corner. Silently, I begged, What is it, people? Just tell me what is so aberrantly weird, let me fix it, and move the spotlight over to the spinach ravioli!

But instead, the spotlight turned to a silent showdown between Malky and a ginger-haired young boy. Little Boy stared, Malky stared back. Little Boy took a decisive bite out of his pizza, and Malky swallowed her piece and shifted her head to the side, holding Little Boy in a steely gaze. Then Little Boy stuck out his tongue, and Malky — not to be outdone — pulled the lowest blow she was capable of.

Putting her fork down slowly, she reached for her tiny ears and pulled them out the farthest they could stretch. Then she blew her cheeks up like a toad’s chest and flapped her tongue at Little Boy in quick, successive movements.

At this point I was choking from laughter, thoroughly enjoying my little girl’s impishness. Social skills training would come, but for now, she was just too cute.

But then Little Boy prepared to launch his own version of a lowball. He slid off his chair and took two steps toward Malky. He looked her straight in the eye and hissed his one-word clincher: “DOWNY.”

Thud.

My brain finally unfroze enough for me to comprehend what Captain Obvious had been waving

in front of my face the entire time. DOWNY.

People were staring at my precious daughter because of her condition, which was splashed across her face and imprinted on her mannerisms.

I should’ve felt indignant. I should’ve burned with anger, marched over to Little Boy’s family, and given them a piece of my mind. I’d done that before and would surely continue doing that in the future, hopefully with dignity and class.

But today I felt like I was floating on air, absorbing the miracle that had happened. For 45 minutes, I had inspected every square inch of my family and wondered what in the world could possibly be so very interesting about us. And not once had I remembered the very simple fact that my daughter had a chronic, obvious diagnosis that would forever draw the attention of the typical people surrounding us.

THIS MIRACLE had been four years in the making. Four years and a lifetime ago, I never would’ve dreamed this was possible.

Just 30 months earlier or so, I had cried about this and confided in my friend/rebbetzin/fellow mother or a child with special needs.

“Malky is six months old,” I wailed, “and still, every morning, when I open my eyes, instead of thinking about menus and shopping lists, about how to end sibling rivalry and bring world peace, my stomach lurches with one thought repeating itself in an obsessive loop: I have a baby with Down syndrome. Will this ever go away? Will I ever again be a normal mother with normal concerns?”

Today I had reached that longed-for existence. The day had arrived, and I basked in the moment.

But somewhere in my heart, even deeper than the joy of my hard-earned oblivion, I was remembering and perceiving the wisdom of the answer the rebbetzin had given me.

“Yes and no, zeeskeit,” she’d said. “You’ll stop obsessively thinking about Down syndrome, but life never goes back to normal. It only becomes more beautiful.”

And so it does, every single day.

I am Malky’s mommy, and this is my story.

SOMETHING CHANGES WHEN YOUR MIND FINALLY

LETS GO…

IT'S NOT WILLPOWER. IT'S NOT MORE TOOLS OR TIPS. IT'S NOT "MANAGING".

A shift is happening.

BORN TO THRIVE

CHAPTER 1

A THOUSAND THREADS OF LOVE

Love, fear and hope all vied for center stage as I nestled my velvet-cheeked newborn against my chest, waiting for the doctors to finally finish their consultations and come back to us with the verdict. It had already been an endless four hours since this tiny being entered the world and sent the doctors into an urgent, whispered conference, before hastily exiting the room to “discuss some concerns.”

In the world of newborns, four hours is nothing. But in the world of waiting, four hours is endless.

I stroked my baby’s back gently and looked at the little troublemaker. Just a few hours old, and already she had generated so much drama. But my baby girl was oblivious, wanting only to be held and soothed. She shifted, and her fuzz of black hair tickled my eyes, granting me a dignified excuse for the lone tear that trickled down my face.

The waiting was taking a toll on me, my nerves jangling for a release of tension, so I searched through my bag for my favorite gel pen and soft-covered journal. I had always found writing cathartic, and I wanted to give myself the luxury of spinning my overwhelming emotions into concrete words. To tell my baby girl just how much I wanted her, no matter what the doctors would tell us.

I needed to do it for her. But even more, I needed to do it for myself. If our worst fears came true, there would be crushing disappointment, there would be grief, and there would be tears. I needed to be able to look back at this time and know that there was one thing I never doubted: my commitment and love to my precious neshamah’le

I started to pen the words. There was a visible quiver discernible in the strokes and curls of the letters I was forming, but it only under-

scored the essence of my message.

Dearest Princess,

You don’t yet have a name, but you have your most important essence. You are a child of Hashem, a princess in Klal Yisroel. You are a wanted and beloved member of our family.

We sit here, in the mother-baby unit of Mt. Sinai hospital. The sun is streaming through the windows, and the tiny cries of delicious newborns provide the soundtrack for this moment. But here in this room, there’s another soundtrack providing harmony and rhythm. It’s the sound of heartbeats. Two heartbeats. Yours and my own. They’re beating together, my little one. No matter what they tell us, no matter what we hear about you, I promise you this: I love you, no matter what. I love you, and you are mine, forever.

No one needed convincing. Despite the potential devastating diagnoses and the fear of the future that hovered over us, the room was suffused with an otherworldly aura. Every stroke on my baby’s back, every squeeze on her tiny fingers, formed a silken thread of love until there were a thousand threads of love binding us together.

My husband stepped gently into the room. “Dr. Romswell will be in tomorrow morning,” he said, referring to our trusted pediatrician. “He’ll come to see the baby, and then we’ll know. Can you hold on until then?”

“I’m not going anywhere. And I already know.”

“What do you know?”

“The only important thing. She is a baby, our baby. For now, that’s all I need to know.”

I had to treasure my few hours of normal, to concentrate on what was known and familiar — and most importantly, on what was the deepest truth.

Around us, new mothers were caressing their tiny ones, admiring pink cheeks and tiny lips and hugging emotional visitors, but we kept the door closed. We were holding out, hoping for a miracle. As long as things weren’t confirmed, the scare was ours alone.

IF OUR WORST FEARS CAME TRUE, THERE WOULD BE CRUSHING DISAPPOINTMENT, THERE WOULD BE GRIEF, AND THERE WOULD BE TEARS

Night fell, and with it came silence, not good for a kimpeturin with a possible diagnosis hanging over her head.

Desperately seeking distraction, I thumbed through my hastily packed bags seeking the mp3 player I’d shoved into my overnight bag. Randomly, I chose an old playlist I’d put together. Then, depleted, I closed my eyes. The song started, an old Yiddish melody, its delicate tune piping through the tiny speaker, swirling

throughout the room and caressing me.

Ich vil bei eich a kasha freigen…

A small question I have for you

Tell me if you can

What’s the treasure that Hashem

Gifts to every man….

THERE WERE THREE NEWBORNS IN THE ROOM, AS ON THAT DAY, WE, TOO, WERE REBORN

I knew this song by heart. It was an old-time classic, Yossele Rosenblatt singing about the ever-enduring love of the Yiddishe mama I had grown up on this song, the voice of my Bobby engraving the message in my very soul. And now it was here, singing to me, the very words I needed to hear more than anything else. Rivulets of tears ran down my face as the song played, my personal bas kol reassuring me that regardless of test results, I was always a Yiddishe mama, there to nurture the child Hashem entrusted me with.

Who would sit by your bedside

And never move away

Who carries you in her heart

Every single day….

The stirring lyrics split my heart open. I pressed my precious baby to my chest and inhaled the heady scent of Gan Eden enveloping her. Sobbing in sync with the tune I loved so much, I breathed the words:

In whose eyes are you picture-perfect

You can do no wrong

You know, always and forever

To your Yiddishe mama you belong…

You belong, my little one. In my heart. In our family. There’s no doubt of Hashem’s Master plan, no clearer proof that He handpicked us for this mission. My bas kol was still singing to me, caressing my heart and reassuring me that I could do this.

They call it cleansing tears. And they must’ve been, because after I’d wiped the last one off my cheeks, the sunlight looked brighter and my tiny bundle — if at all possible — even cuter. We snuggled for another hour or so, letting the song soothe us both to sleep.

The infamous 7 a.m. shift change jerked us back to reality. Hustle and bustle, breakfast carts being wheeled on tiled floors, and clipped last-minute updates and instructions announced as the night shift hurried home and the morning sentry took over.

The moment of truth was inching closer. The closer it came, the closer I held my treasure, reassuring her and myself that we would be alright.

The steam swirled up from my coffee, evaporating in delicate tendrils. As I held my princess, the diagnoses mattered less and the love mattered more. I had accepted the fact long before the doctors made their formal announcement. There would be challenges and rocky terrain to climb, but we would do

it. We would reach the peak of our personal mountain, fueled by emunah and bitachon, holding on with ropes of love.

Dr. Romswell came into the room, compassion all over his face.

And we knew.

Hersh looked at me. I looked at the doctor. We all spoke at the same time.

“She has it.”

“Trisomy 21.”

“Down syndrome.”

The words were clumsy, a dance none of us had practiced. The words ricocheted around the room, bounced off the walls, and finally landed in a twisted heap on the floor.

We stared at each other, Hersh and I, clumsy grief so incongruous with the joyous heartbeat of the happiest ward of the hospital.

I tasted the phrase, turning it around in my mouth, uttering it for the first time. “My baby has Down syndrome.” Saying it aloud had a soothing effect. Grief retreated to the outer perimeters of existence instead of occupying center stage.

We had been entrusted with a special mission. Raising a child who was so much like any other child, yet so very different.

In essence there were three newborns in the room, as on that day, we, too, were reborn. So much of who we would become as parents, as human beings, would grow from this point on. A whole new world was being opened to us.

“My baby has Down syndrome.” I said it again, and round two was smoother, the sentence still feeling unnatural, but no longer like a tragedy. Just a newborn creation, still learning, still growing.

And we would grow with it.

That day, two children were born. But one would have to die, so the other could live. For with every birth, two children are born: the child of our dreams, and the child of reality. And when we let go of our dream baby, we can start to raise the child we hold in our arms.

COMING

NEXT WEEK:

WHY WE BASICALLY HAD TWINS, AND THE ISSUE WITH THE BABY’S KIDDUSH.

Names and identifying details have been changed. This serial reflects the author’s personal experiences. Every child with Down syndrome is unique, and so are their families. Halacha, hashkafah, developmental and medical decisions should be referred to the appropriate rabbanim and professionals.

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We the People

BY BROCHY GANELES

Rebecca moves into Rapahel and Judith’s home and receives a cold welcome from Judith. Jacob enlists in the army.

Joseph

The first time he holds a musket, his hands tremble. He swallows down hard on the sudden nausea that rises in his throat and runs his fingers over the wood and metal. The men around him seem to know their weapon, seem to hold it with a familiarity and comfort that he cannot mimic. It’s heavy. The weight it carries is heavy.

“Solomon!” Captain Lushington is looking at him.

“Yes, sir?”

“Your musket will not bite. Hold it like a man.” The man’s eyes are laughing.

“Yes, sir.” He straightens, trying to mimic the relaxed poses of the other men. He does not look at their faces, though. He can feel their smiles even with his gaze lowered.

“Every soldier of the Continental Army will learn how to load and fire their musket four times in one minute.” Captain Lushington walks among their ranks as he speaks. “A company’s success will be determined by its ability to shoot faster than the enemy can. Success in war

means we may all live for another day. I do not need to speak plainly as to what failure in war means.”

He looks at each of his men. The smiles they had shared at Joseph’s expense a few moments ago vanish, a solemnity of spirit arriving in their stead. This is war. They must learn how to excel at it.

The captain turns to the lieutenant at his side. “Lieutenant Martin?”

Lieutenant Martin steps forward. “Watch well, boys. And pay heed to my commands.” The lieutenant holds his own musket aloft, nods, and begins.

“Handle cartridge!”

Joseph counts with a whisper as he watches the lieutenant’s fingers move. One… two… three… Draw a paper cartridge from the leather cartridge box strapped to his waist… Six…seven… Tear open the cartridge with his teeth.

“Prime!”

Open the small metal tab of the musket — the hammer — halfway, and pour a small bit of gunpowder inside. Eight… nine

“About!”

Close the hammer and turn the rifle so the butt is on the ground and the hole of the barrel is facing upward to-

ward his chin… Ten… eleven... Pour the rest of the black powder down the barrel and put the lead ball in next…. Thirteen… Stuff the paper of the cartridge down the barrel as wadding.

“Draw ramrods!”

Detach the long metal ramrod from the musket, and use it to ram the paper in place, two strokes, return it to its place on the musket… Fifteen…sixteen…

“Present!”

Stabilize musket on shoulder, and pull the cock back to prepare to fire… Seventeen

“Fire!”

The sound shatters the air, loud and sudden, and Joseph flinches from the blast.

The lieutenant catches his eye with a smirk, then nods to the rest of the recruits. “You will soon grow so weary from these commands that my words will follow you in your sleep.” His eyes twinkle. “If you are able to sleep, that is. The mosquitoes are particularly vicious this time of year.”

It is hours of this, of lifting the musket, detaching and attaching the ramrod, pouring the powder, opening and closing the hammer. It is only toward afternoon that Captain Lushington allows them some reprieve.

“Find your mess group and start preparing your supper.”

The camp is large, rows of white tents in an open field. Joseph walks amongst the tents slowly, weary from an afternoon of drills. Ramrod, barrel, hammer, cock He does not know of flintlocks, of weapons and strength. His life has been lived as a tailor, the fourth son, a comfort in its stillness. He can tell them of needles and thread and hems, but that would not do him any good here.

חמש גח

He stands among the tents, searching for his own. The white skirts flap in the thick breeze, a crack of cloth and then stillness. His mess of six other soldiers is near the far end of the camp, close enough to the river that he can hear its babbling. But now he is surrounded by a sea of white, and the river’s call can be heard from them all.

“Joseph!” Moses Cohen exits a tent. “How did you fare on your first day?”

“I am none the worse for it.”

“Ah, how much is said with so few words!” Moses smiles and puts an arm around his shoulder. “I shall walk with you. I have a message from the captain for a soldier in the tent adjacent to yours.”

They walk in companionable silence for a few moments, and then Moses speaks.

“You must know, Joseph, that even I found myself entirely out of my league when I first joined the army. The terms they throw around as if every shopkeeper ought to know the difference between a cock and a hammer!” He laughs, shaking his head at the memory. “Life now will be different than you have ever known it to be. Your days will consist solely of training drills and menial labor, and I still have not decided which of the two is the greater evil. But both combined are better than the night watch.” He laughs again. They are at Joseph’s tent now. “You are not your own man anymore. But it is for a cause greater than ourselves.” He smiles one last time, then turns into another tent.

The tent is empty when Joseph enters, and he is glad of it. He has not spoken to the other men yet, having arrived after they had left for training, and he relishes the quiet now that is his alone. Rebecca must be helping Judith prepare the evening meal now. Or perhaps she is sitting with Gabriel in the garden.

He smiles. She must be enjoying her time away, with a house full of staff to tend to her every need.

Rebecca

Gabriel wails for the entirety of the day. It is as if he knows his father is gone, and he is letting her know of his disappointment. She has tried everything to calm him, but his cries do not cease.

“May I hold the child?” One of the slaves stands at the door to her rooms, but her manner is not hesitant. She stands proudly. “I was the nursemaid for the mistress’s children.”

“Oh, yes!” Rebecca stands from her chair and hurries to her. “Thank you.”

The woman turns Gabriel so that his stomach runs along her forearm, and bounces him softly on her knees. Up, down, up, down. Gabriel is still crying, but it is softer now. Up, down.

“This movement calms them,” the woman says. Up, down. Gabriel is quieting, his cries slowing. Up, down.

“What is your name?” Rebecca whispers.

“Betsey, miss.”

“I am Rebecca.”

“Yes, miss.”

Gabriel is silent now, and a calmness settles over Rebecca at last. “How long have you lived here?”

“I was the nurse for Abraham when he was a baby, and I was the nurse for all the others.” Her gaze flits to

Rebecca as she says this, a brief flash of sadness in the darkness of her eyes, and then it is gone.

Rebecca longs to know, to hear of those children she has never met. Names she had only known from letters while she was away in Savannah. But the click of a door — soft, quiet — is heard from the hall. Judith is nearby.

Judith

The baby is crying. The thin wail pierces the night, and instantly she is awake, her hands grasping for the cradle, reaching for her baby. But, oh! Where is the cradle? She stumbles out of bed, reaching in the

“Life now will be different than you have ever known it to be. Your days will consist solely of training drills and menial labor”

darkness for her baby. The cries grow louder, a sharp and pained sound that turns Judith’s heart over in her chest. She must hurry to her baby. Where could her baby have gone?

She walks through her room with groping hands. Here is the mirror, here is the armoire, here is the rocking chair, but where is the cradle? She cannot see in the thickness of the night, her hands running over every surface, trying to find the baby. But then her foot catches on the leg of the chair, and she falls to the floor with a great thud.

“Judith?” Raphaels sits up in his bed with bleary eyes, “What are you doing on the floor?”

“I… Leah is crying and I cannot find her. Where is she?” Her cheeks are wet with her baby’s tears, but Raphael only sighs.

“It isn’t our baby, Judith. It is Gabriel.”

“No!” She shakes her head quickly. “No!”

“Judith.” Raphael’s voice is softer now. “Leah is in Heaven now. It is not our baby.”

She stills, rocking on the floor as her heart breaks anew. Leah is in Heaven. It is not her baby. It is Gabriel. “But — Leah!”

“Leah is not here, Judith.” His words are slow, and she does not know if he speaks like this to calm her or because he is afraid. “It is Gabriel.”

Again she shakes her head, but it is weaker now. It is Gabriel. It cannot be Leah. Leah is in Heaven.

A tremor runs through her, knives and glass that assail her with jagged edges, her pain exploding on every surface of her skin. It is not Leah. It is Gabriel.

It is Rebecca’s child.

We’re here for it all.

The smoothest event you’ve ever pulled off because everything you needed was already here

CORPORATE RETREATS

The Shabbos your parents, children, and grandchildren all shared a table

Something

this amazing convenience that was guidance it became To book your experience,

The spontaneous vacation that reminded you how easy it is to get away

GETAWAYS

toasted

There’s a charged and refreshing energy in the air. This Yom Tov season, all the shopping and cooking prep is accompanied by whispered tefillos for a sweet new year.

Enjoy our rich and varied Yom Tov dishes as we unveil our Tishrei menu. As always, we strive to combine elegance with ease, tradition with fresh twists. Happy cooking, and may all of our tefillos be answered L’tovah.

ISSUE 020

All Things Apples

DECONSTRUCTED APPLE CRANBERRY CRUMBLE

APPLE PIE

APPLE CUSTARD MUFFINS

ISSUE 021

Marvelous Meats

COFFEE CLUB ROAST

RASPBERRY GLAZED BEEF

CARAMEL BALSAMIC FLANKEN ROAST

ISSUE 022

Honoring the Ushpizin

CRANBERRY MOUSSE CUPS

COFFEE CHOCOLATE FUDGE PIE

SWISS MERINGUE WREATHS WITH PLUM COMPOTE

ISSUE 023

SESAME DIP THIS WEEK!

OLIVE TAPENADE

ONION ‘N HERB DIP

ASIAN BROCCOLI SLAW

MIRIAM PESSY WERCBERGER

We are at the final stretch of food prep. Our roasts and desserts may already be filling our freezers, but we want our salads and dips to be as fresh and full of flavor as they come.

OLIVE Tapenade

A French classic, this olive tapenade is bursting with bright, herby flavors.

INGREDIENTS

1 (19 oz.) can olives

½ cup olive oil

⅓ cup roasted almonds

4 cloves garlic

1 tsp. basil

1 tsp. oregano

1 tsp. rosemary

1 tsp. thyme

¼ tsp. crushed red pepper flakes

Shabbos

Lighting Starts Here

DIRECTIONS

Using a food processor fitted with the S blade, pulse all ingredients until combined but still slightly chunky.

SESAME Dip

Sesame dip is a new and popular addition to the dip scene. Making your own yields a more wholesome result with a full-bodied flavor and less sugar.

INGREDIENTS

⅔ cup sesame seeds

⅔ cup mayonnaise

2 T. honey

2 tsp. soy sauce

2 tsp. sesame oil

1 tsp. garlic powder

Pinch of black pepper

DIRECTIONS

1. Toast the sesame seeds in a dry pan for 3 to 5 minutes until slightly browned and toasted, being mindful not to let them burn. Set aside.

2. Combine remaining ingredients in a container.

3. Once the sesame seeds have cooled, add them to the dip.

4. Marinate for an hour to allow the flavors to fully develop.

If you love fried onions, this dip is for you.

INGREDIENTS

2 large onions, chopped

2 T. oil

3 cubes B’gan herb mix seasoning cubes

½ tsp. salt

¼ tsp. black pepper

1 tsp. honey

¼ cup mayonnaise

DIRECTIONS

1. Saute the onions in oil over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally until caramelized, around 40 to 60 minutes.

2. Add the herb cubes, salt, pepper and honey to the pot, and cook for an additional 2 minutes.

3. Once the onions have cooled, add the mayonnaise and mix to combine.

ASIAN BROCCOLI Slaw Salad

This zesty salad hits all the right notes and is a lovely accompaniment to any course.

INGREDIENTS

1 (16 oz.) bag broccoli slaw (or cabbage)

1 bunch scallions

1½ cups craisin ‘n seed mix

¼ cup sesame seeds

DRESSING

5 T. oil

2 T. honey

1 T. sesame oil

1 T. lemon juice

1 T. soy sauce

Pinch of salt

DIRECTIONS

1. Place all salad ingredients into a bowl.

2. Place all dressing ingredients into a container, and shake vigorously to combine.

3. Add the dressing to the salad right before serving, or serve on the side.

On Sukkos, we escape our dependence on comfortable materialism and enter the sukkah, a spiritual place, where we can be who we really are.

And in that holy space, a square of heaven on earth, these exalted guests visit, and their middos become accessible to us.

guests of honor Ushpizin

A collection of stories and personalities to inspire you throughout the year

םהרבא

AVRAHAM AVINU STANDS FOR CHESED. IN A WORLD THAT DIDN’T RECOGNIZE HASHEM, HIS HACHNASAS ORCHIM BROUGHT PEOPLE CLOSE.

Open Door Policy

GOLDIE HIRSCH

Ruchy Singer doesn’t consider what she does to be extraordinary. By providing accommodations to families from out-of-town or overseas who’ve come for medical purposes, she’s simply paying forward the kindness she received a while back.

“I’m just happy I was able to take my own experience and can now help others in my shoes,” she explains.

A few years ago, when she was facing her own medical challenge, Ruchy was the one being hosted by others. “We felt so safe and secure and were treated so wonderfully when we were hosted. It took a huge part of the stress off us.”

At that point, Ruchy’s basement was unfinished. Yet she knew that one day, she wanted to give others the same sense of relief she had experienced.

Soon the time came. “We had the space, it was doable, so we did it,” she says.

With the help of a contractor, some furniture and a few appliances, she created a welcoming space for those in medical need.

Her hospitality suite boasts two bedrooms, a little living room and a small kitchenette, but Ruchy provides much more than that, whether it’s freshbaked goods, smoothies, homecooked meals and warm notes. Of course, there are organizations that send food, but as Ruchy says, “Commercial food

“We had the space, it was doable, so we did it”

just tastes commercial after a while.”

The families who stay with Ruchy are often in emotional turmoil. Sometimes, a listening ear is more important than any meal she can offer.

“Yes, the guest suite has a separate entrance, and yes, some people do need that privacy,” Ruchy says. “But many guests like to connect and share what they’re going through.”

Ruchy uses her own medical background and knowledge to help. Sometimes, she even brings her daughter, who has her own medical history, to meet the guests.

“I show them, ‘This is a child who had medical issues, and look how well she’s doing!’”

Her daughter often befriends the children who come to stay, especially those with kidney failure or a feeding tube. Though she hasn’t had a feeding tube since she was eighteen months old, for the guests, seeing Ruchy’s daughter thriving gives them comfort and hope.

“I learn a lot from my guests,” Ruchy admits. “We gain more than we give.” She’s inspired by their perspective on life, seeing how appreciative and content they are with even the smallest amount of help. “They’re grateful — happy, even — despite all the challenges they’re going through.”

Ruchy has been hosting for nearly seven years and has formed many meaningful relationships. One family calls her every year on Erev Rosh Hasha-

nah to wish her shanah tovah, and they always make sure to visit when they come to America.

“The families who stay with us just become our family,” Ruchy says. The Singers keep in touch with their guests and attend each other’s simchas whenever they can.

When a guest’s medical chapter closes with a happy ending, Ruchy is often one of the first to know. “It’s just so exciting, so emotional,” she says. She recently received a call that was a culmination of ten years of hope. A woman who had stayed in their suite while undergoing treatments called to share the news that she had finally been blessed with a baby. “It was a medical breakthrough, ten anxious years of waiting, and a happy ending,” Ruchy shares. “It makes the hosting so worth it.”

If a family needs a place to stay on short notice, Ruchy doesn’t hesitate. “Many times, there’s no cleaning lady available, so we need to roll up our sleeves,” she says. She turns the preparation into a family project. One child does the linens, another fills the fridge, and a third mops and vacuums. “Even the kids who don’t want to make their own beds get involved.”

Ruchy’s guests are welcome to stay as long as necessary, as it’s impossible to know when their medical challenge will end. But just like Avraham Avinu, her door remains open, and her lips constantly whisper tefillos for them to return home soon, and safely.

Small Measures

AS TOLD TO HINDY KLEIN

קחצי

YITZCHAK AVINU STOOD FOR GEVURAH, THE POWER AND DISCIPLINE TO HARNESS THE MUNDANE AND BECOME YOUR GREATEST SELF.

It had been a sad morning. My neighbor’s beautiful two-year-old son had been killed in a tragic accident. The community was reeling, and the world felt a whole lot darker.

After the levaya, I came home and got ready to leave the house with my own little boy. Like it or not, I had to restock my fridge if I wanted to feed my family.

After getting dressed, I looked at myself in the mirror, and my eyes slipped to my neckline. My neckline was okay. Like, really okay. Any other day, I wouldn’t have even considered the half-inch that could have improved it.

there was suddenly a flash of color in front of the window.

My husband braked hard, and the car jerked to a stop. Literally a half-inch from the bumper stood a little girl who had tried crossing the parking lot without looking first.

Shaken, we stared out my windshield at this precious child. It was a miracle we hadn’t hurt her. She had appeared from behind a parked car, and there was no way we could have known she was there.

But the girl herself was oblivious to the miracle she had just experienced. She simply glanced at our car and then scampered away.

As my husband continued driving, all I could think was, this is the significance of a half-inch.

Do we really know how tiny measures down here are accounted for in Shamayim? Do we really see the value of a halfinch? Is a half-inch really only ever a halfinch?

I did my grocery run in a daze. After paying, I pushed my full cart out of the

Did such a tiny measurement really mean anything?

But since my neighbor’s little boy was in my mind and heart, I created a little pleat in the neckline of my shirt and stuck in a pin l’ilui nishmaso. It was a tiny sacrifice that I hoped would be a zechus

As I hurried out to my husband’s car that was waiting for me outside, I wondered whether that half-inch really mattered. It wasn’t like I had taken in a super wide neckline. Did such a tiny measurement really mean anything?

I strapped my son into the car, got into my own seat, and my husband pulled out of his parking space. As we inched our way from the parking lot to the road,

store and headed to a waiting taxi.

This time it was us. As I stepped into the parking lot, pushing a cart full of groceries and my precious little boy, a car sped by, swiping us so closely, I could have touched it. The car hadn’t been more than a half-inch away from us.

After sitting into the taxi, I took a moment to recalibrate.

I had learned something that morning. I had made a half-inch adjustment, which I thought was a small, almost meaningless sacrifice.

But what do we really know about the value of a half-inch?

YAAKOV AVINU WAS AN ISH EMES, A MAN OF TRUTH, WHO ESTABLISHED THE TEFILLAH OF MAARIV.

Dream Come True

AS TOLD TO ESTHER KING

It’s not easy being the only girl in a family of boys. While my daughter Shaina doubtless loves her brothers (you know, most of the time), she coped with her sisterlessness by adopting herself into our next-door neighbor’s family. They have no boys, only girls — seven of them, to be precise. Rochel is exactly Shaina’s age, and they became BFFs.

There were days when Shaina went there straight from school and didn’t come home until it was time to go to sleep. Other days, Shaina and Rochel would come here straight from school, check what was for supper, and then decide if they wanted to eat here or at Rochel’s house. Rochel was the sister Shaina never had.

Rochel’s family often included Shaina in their family trips, and even Rochel’s grandparents, when they visited, brought Shaina a gift just like they did for all of their (real) granddaughters.

So it makes sense that Rochel’s aunt, Dina, was

Rochel and Shaina weren’t little girls anymore but high school students themselves… and Dina was still single

like Shaina’s aunt. Dina was Rochel’s mother’s little sister, a high school girl, and although she lived in Brooklyn, she loved to visit her older sister’s home in Lakewood whenever she had vacation or wanted a Shabbos away. She was a big sister to Rochel and Shaina, and as soon as she graduated high school and became officially shidduch age, Rochel and Shaina began dreaming of Dina’s wedding.

But it didn’t happen exactly like that. One year passed, then another. Before I knew it, Rochel and Shaina weren’t little girls anymore but high school students themselves… and Dina was still single.

I’m not sure when I noticed that Shaina had started davening Maariv. I didn’t ask her anything about it, though. I remembered my own insecure teenage years; nothing kills inspiration more than someone making a big deal out of it.

But my husband was surprised, and he asked her about it. “Rochel and I decided to daven Maariv for 40 days as a zechus for Dina,” Shaina explained.

My husband’s face lit up, surprised and moved.

Then, in true teenage fashion, Shaina added, “It’s so dumb. Even if she gets married, I won’t get to go to the wedding. They’ll for sure make it in Brooklyn, and how will I get there?”

Spontaneously, my husband said, “When she gets engaged, if you can’t find a ride to the wedding, I’ll drive you there.”

You’re probably expecting this story to end with Dina’s engagement on day 40, but that’s not what

happened. Months passed, and Dina was still single. Eventually, Shaina and Rochel tried another round of 40 days of Maariv — and still nothing.

But then, one day, Shaina came home from Rochel’s house glowing. Dina was engaged!

As an honorary niece of the kallah, Shaina’s joy overflowed. There’s nothing more exciting than a family wedding, and Shaina was utterly swept up in the preparations. Gowns, shoes, hair, shopping… It was the stuff of a teenage girl’s dreams.

Of course, I understood that Shaina would go to the wedding. She couldn’t go with Rochel’s family, since they were going for the Shabbos kallah and staying until the chasunah on Monday night. But I was sure Shaina would get a ride. After all, the chasan and kallah must know some people in Lakewood… no?

Apparently, no.

The night before Dina’s wedding, I said to my husband, “I don’t know what to do. The only ride I could find for Shaina is with someone I don’t know, who’s making a stop along the way to visit someone. I’m not comfortable with that. But how is she going to get to the wedding?”

“I’ll drive her,” my husband replied.

“That’s crazy,” I protested. “You commute, you’re exhausted, you’ll get home crazy late. You can’t drive her!”

“I promised her I would,” my husband said, “and I will.”

My husband drove Shaina into Brooklyn for Dina’s wedding, found a shul to learn in for a couple of hours, and then drove her home.

“Just be careful what you say next time,” I grumbled.

“Why?” my husband and Shaina replied in unison. “It was worth it!”

So my husband kept his word, and Shaina’s tefillos were answered — both for Dina to get married and for herself to attend the wedding (and both parts, believe me, were of equal importance in her eyes). Mazel tov!

השמ

KNOWN FOR ETERNITY AS MOSHE RABBEINU, OUR TEACHER, MOSHE ASCENDED THE MOUNTAIN AND TAUGHT THE TORAH TO THE ENTIRE NATION.

Always Learning

SIVI SEKULA

If you walk into Munkatch shul in Boro Park on Sunday 27 Tishrei, October 19, you’ll see a sight that is replicated at dozens of locations across the world: men of all ages and from across the frum spectrum leaning over test papers, their brows furrowed in concentration as they churn out the knowledge they have accumulated over the last month.

Anticipation hangs in the air. For weeks, these men have spent every spare moment chazering a blatt Gemara, some Mishnayos, or pages of the Mishnah Berurah, and it’s all been leading up to this bechinah. Throughout the day, Dirshu participants enter the test room, where they spend about half an hour answering the questions. In the Munkatch test center alone, which is Dirshu’s largest, around five hundred men come to be tested, with hundreds more in other parts of the USA and around the globe.

Once the tests are completed, they are sent to Eretz Yisroel, where the talmidei chachamim who authored the exams grade them. Participants then receive stipends according to their results, ranging from $50 to $110 per test.

Dirshu was founded 28 years ago by Rav Dovid Hofstedter with the goal of increasing limud Torah worldwide, and fostering the mastery and retention of what has been learned. The organization has since developed more than half a dozen structured learning programs, appealing to a wide range of interests while promoting the study of specific seforim and inyanim. For instance, the Daf Hayomi B’Halacha program is a mussar and halacha framework that focuses on the Shulchan Aruch, Rema and Mishna Berurah. Kinyan Halacha is a

The commitment, determination and ameilus of Dirshu participants are worthy of celebration

program that is designed for kollel yungeleit who are ready to progress to rabbanus, while Kinyan Chochmah establishes a daily mussar seder. Dirshu also publishes its own seforim to complement its various learning programs — most notably its Mishnah Berurah, which is considered the most popular edition on the market today, even among those who are not Dirshu participants.

In addition, Dirshu is affiliated with other global learning frameworks, for example Daf Yomi, and more recently, Amud Yomi. For many years, Dirshu’s primary mission has been to provide an incentivized framework for Daf Yomi, offering monthly tests that keep participants on track through the full seven-year cycle of Shas. But when Dirshu decided to add the Amud Yomi to their roster of programs, they took things a step further. The Amud Yomi schedule acknowledges the very real challenges that many men have with learning a full daf every day. By cutting the daily quota to an amud, the incredible goal of completing Shas becomes much more attainable — even if it takes fifteen years.

Two years ago, Dirshu began actively promoting Amud Yomi. They encouraged maggidei shiur to deliver daily shiurim on the program and provided resources

that enabled anyone to learn the daily amud wherever they are, even without officially enrolling.

The commitment, determination and ameilus of Dirshu participants are worthy of celebration, and the famous Dirshu siyumim that take place worldwide several times a year are suitably grand affairs, attended not only by participants, but by gedolei hador who are invited to schep nachas and share divrei chizuk.

Last year, Dirshu held a siyum in a large London arena, a historic event for the city. Thousands of men and boys from across England attended, inspired not only by the majesty of the event but even more by the presence of gedolim from Eretz Yisroel and America who addressed them. The palpable joy, expressed in song and dance, made the siyum both emotional and exhilarating, igniting a fresh fire of Torah in the hearts of all present. As proof, within just one week, several new Dirshu shiurim had opened in communities across England.

One hundred years after Rav Meir Shapiro transformed the Olam HaTorah with the introduction of Daf Yomi, Dirshu is carrying the torch forward, igniting a new wave of commitment and passion for Torah across the globe.

AHARON HAKOHEN WAS AN OHEIV SHALOM AND RODEF SHALOM, AND NO VESSEL HOLDS BLESSING BETTER THAN PEACE.

Pursuing Peace

GOLDIE HIRSCH

“Your enemy is a person who lives with you and doesn’t even pay rent,” Rabbi Pinchos Spitzer frequently tells people. “By dwelling on the hurt, you’re essentially letting someone occupy your mental and emotional space for free, draining your energy and peace of mind.”

Rabbi Spitzer was once asked to mediate a decade-long feud. He spent nearly two years helping the parties find the courage to forgive — and then founded an organization called Shalom

Al Yisroel, which is dedicated to restoring shalom

“I wish I could be Aharon Hakohen,” Rabbi Spitzer admits, “but at this point I don’t act as a go-between. I just try to influence people’s mindsets so they find the strength to reconcile on their own.”

Since forgiveness is a difficult process requiring immense courage and strength, Rabbi Spitzer tries to make the process easier. He provides pamphlets with stories about the ripple effects of hurting others and offers tips and ideas for anyone seeking

“In this day and age, people like to follow trends,” he says. “We’re trying to make asking for forgiveness the new ‘in’ thing. We want people to think, ‘Even if this person hurt me, I’ll work on myself to forgive him.’”

Rabbi Spitzer’s main purpose is to raise awareness about the importance of not hurting others. “We’re all human, and we make mistakes,” he says.

This isn’t a new problem; even in the Midbar, when Bnei Yisroel had everything provided for them, there was still a need for Aharon Hakohen to resolve disputes.

“People hurt, and people get hurt,” observes Rabbi Spitzer. “And it’s painful to see the unfortunate, avoidable outcomes.” He recalls a 70-year-old man who made shalom with an old friend after 25 years. “They would meet at simchos and just ignore each

other, but after reading one of the organization’s pamphlets, he decided it was finally time to forgive.”

Rabbi Spitzer stresses that if you have hurt someone, you should ask for forgiveness, even if they appear fine, as the pain can linger in their heart for years. Similarly, those who have been hurt should try to forgive.

People remember what others say to them, even seemingly flippant comments made years ago.

“People typically forget things like what they needed from the grocery store or why they just walked into this room,” Rabbi Spitzer says, “but a sentence someone said to them years ago will be etched in their minds forever.”

Sometimes people hurt others and need to ask for forgiveness. They may realize their wrongdoing on their own, or lo aleinu face personal challenges that they eventually attribute to having hurt someone. Rabbi Spitzer remembers a bochur who did something wrong in yeshiva and blamed it on a classmate. Years later, the first bochur was married and had not yet been blessed with children. He remembered the classmate he had wronged and went to ask for forgiveness. A year later, he invited him to the bris of his newborn son — born after twelve years of waiting.

But another category is a person who harbors a grudge, without the one having caused the

pain having any idea of the first person’s hurt. He recalls a bochur who gave $50 to a gabbai tzedakah and asked for a bracha that the person who had offended him should ask him for mechilah Sometimes, as long as the person doesn’t apologize, the one who was hurt can’t fully forgive.

Direct communication can often resolve conflicts that arise from simple misunderstandings. Rabbi Spitzer once advised an older single man who felt abandoned by his family to talk to his siblings. He suggested that their distance might stem from not knowing how to approach his situation. The man followed this advice, spoke to his sister for close to an hour, and discovered that there were no hard feelings, just a simple miscommunication.

One yungerman wanted Rabbi Spitzer to call an English teacher to apologize for his terrible misbehavior 20 years earlier.

“I told him to call the teacher himself,” Rabbi Spitzer says.

The man made the call on a Friday. On Shabbos, his children asked why he seemed so happy. He told them that by asking for forgiveness, he felt a weight lift off his heart, and he felt like a new person.

Asking for forgiveness can be difficult, but Rabbi Spitzer’s advice is simple: Don’t wait for a challenge to be the catalyst for change. Additionally, it’s much easier to remain quiet in the first place than to apologize later.

People remember what others say to them, even seemingly flippant comments made years ago

YOSEF HATZADDIK SAW THE FUTURE IN HIS DREAMS AND INTERPRETED PHARAOH’S DREAMS. WITH THE IMAGE OF HIS FATHER ALWAYS BEFORE HIM, HE INGRAINED IN US FOREVER THE STRENGTH TO DO WHAT’S RIGHT.

Living the Dream

AS TOLD TO MALKA KATZMAN

After years of deliberation, it was final: We’d be moving to a new, still-developing community in the periphery. Our children were flying the coop one by one and settling in cheaper areas, and we were tired of hosting in our crowded apartment. It was time to swap our three-bedroom apartment for a private home surrounded by a sprawling yard.

We searched the market and — surprisingly — found what we were looking for in no time. It was the perfect home for a great price. Things proceeded smoothly, and we were set to drive over on a Sunday to sign the contract.

Although my husband hadn’t shared it then, he had a bad feeling about the deal from the start. But there was nothing to base it on, and he tried to shoo that feeling away. You don’t just throw away the op-

portunity of a lifetime because of some butterflies in your stomach.

Until Friday night, 36 hours before we would sign the contract.

He had a dream. A funeral was leaving our new house. The place was swarmed with people. A sad procession slowly followed our family.

This was no bad feeling; it was downright foreboding. But it was just a dream, wasn’t it?

On Motzei Shabbos, twelve hours before the closing, a

frum neighbor who lived next door to our would-be home called my husband with some information he felt responsible

to tell him. The seller had cut down a fruit tree on the property. Violating this Torah prohibition could have tragic repercussions; the pasuk tells us not to cut down a fruit tree “for man is the tree of the field.” And yes, the seller lost his wife half a year after he had cut down the tree.

That clinched it. It was no longer only a feeling or a dream. Our dream house was looking more and more like a nightmare.

We called our Rebbe’s gabbai to ask the question for us. But since it was late Motzei Shabbos, he couldn’t contact the Rebbe anymore, and suggested that we consult the Rebbe’s son instead. The Rebbe’s son, in turn, advised us to ask the rav of the city where we were planning to buy the house. We asked the rav, and he told us not to go ahead with the purchase.

We canceled the deal. It was both a disappointment and a relief. And a few months later, we found another house that exceeded the first one in every way.

Hashem had sent a warning to protect us, the Torah to direct us, and gedolim to guide us. And now we’re living the dream.

He had a bad feeling about the deal from the start. But there was nothing to base it on

DOVID HAMELECH WROTE 150 SONGS OF HOPE, YEARNING AND PRAISE — AND EVERY GENERATION HAS CONTINUED TO SING THEM SINCE.

Love and Longing

T. GESTETNER

In the palace, midnight strikes, and the beloved king, Dovid Hamelech, arises to sing the timeless songs of Tehillim. Every line is invested with heart and thought, every word full of feeling and connection with Hakadosh Baruch Hu. And for generations since, we continue to echo his song, to chant the very words hummed to the soundtrack of Dovid’s legendary harp.

In Tehillim, Dovid Hamelech links his many tribulations with those of our nation as a whole. He implores Hashem for salvation and comfort, not only for himself, but for the entire Klal Yisroel. He identifies with our suffering and rejoices with our joys.

That’s the secret to the universal rel-

evance and timelessness of Tehillim. When we recite its words, the emotions Dovid Hamelech invested within come alive once more. It’s as if Dovid himself is chanting them. We identify and relate, take solace and voice gratitude, and find our very selves in its words. As our seforim say, Dovid imbued in Tehillim every human emotion and need that may arise until the coming of Moshiach.

When we recite Tehillim, we are drawn closer to Hashem, just as Tehillim was both an expression of and a catalyst for Dovid

Dovid imbued in Tehillim every human emotion and need that may arise

Hamelech’s dveikus. That alone is a zechus for us as we recite these hallowed words, and for anyone whom we might have in mind as we say them.

“L’Dovid Hashem ori v’yishi” — Hashem is our light and our salvation (Tehillim 27:1). The Midrash says these words hint at Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur. Several pesukim later, there is a reference to the sukkah in which Hashem will hide us, hinting at Sukkos.

In this perek, we find an intimate description of our relationship with Hashem, combining core bitachon with contingent tefillah. Parenthetically, it wasn’t until about 1,000 years later that we find mention, in print, of the minhag to recite this perek during the Yomim Noraim.

Dovid begins this perek of Tehillim by expressing his explicit gratitude and trust in Hashem. “Whom shall I fear?!” he exclaims. In the face of his worst enemies, Hashem is there to protect him.

Then Dovid diverges and posits that bitachon alone is not enough. “I have one request,” he says, “that I may sit in the house of Hashem all the days of my life.” Dovid Hamelech is begging for closeness with Hakadosh Baruch Hu, longing for the privilege of reveling in His presence. He humbly asks for Divine assistance to be able to accomplish this goal.

Rav Chaim Friedlander points out that Dovid does not dream of gold and silver, power and fame. His deepest yearning is to be infused with the safety and warmth of Hashem’s presence. All he wants is kedusha — that wherever he may be, he should feel as if he is in the house of Hashem.

Dovid continues by expressing his conviction that Hashem will protect him, hide him in His dwelling and elevate him above his enemies. He promises to bring korbanos and sing praises to Hashem.

As the perek unspools, we discover that even when there is complete trust in Hashem, there is a need to ask, to daven. It seems as if Dovid falters a bit, as he begs Hashem, “Don’t hide Your face from me… Do not abandon me…” This is an arc we may sometimes see in our daily lives. We may wake up in the morning feeling strong and fortified, but waver as the day progresses. But Dovid urges us to keep davening, to keep asking Hashem to “lead me in the straight path,” so we may continue to “believe in seeing the good of Hashem.”

At the end of the day, we remain in Hashem’s loving embrace, as Dovid Hamelech concludes with an empowering directive: Hope to Hashem, strengthen your heart, and hope again!

Driving the Kossover Rebbe, Rav FeivishShraga Hager,

zt”l

In a quiet corner of Boro Park, on 55th Street, a new home for Torah and tefillah is being readied. The construction for the new beis midrash — a beis midrash that is as unassuming as the Rebbe who had stood at its helm — was accelerated when the Kossover Rebbe, zt”l, first learned about his unfortunate prognosis.

Rabbi Uri Benenfeld, who had the privilege of being one of the Rebbe’s drivers for many years, recounts those devastating days. “When the Rebbe returned from the doctor, I could tell that things were not good. The atmosphere was very heavy. The Rebbe asked me to take him to the beis hachaim in Monsey, to the tzion of his father, the previous Kossover Rebbe, zt”l. We got there at 12 o’clock a.m. The Rebbe stayed there for a long time, immersed in tefillah. On the way home, the Rebbe was visibly relaxed and was singing some of the niggunim that he often sang at the tischen. In the period following that, his activities went back to normal as much as possible.”

The Rebbe wanted to build the new beis midrash for a simple yet very exalted purpose. The Rebbe wasn’t interested in

pomp or splendor. He had no patience for kavod or for all the trappings of a rebbishe hoif. He simply said, “If people come because they want to be close to the Eibershter, then we have to give them a place.”

How a Chassid Is Made

There is no regular job application process when seeking to become a Rebbe’s driver. The person who is privileged to escort a Rebbe to his many obligations is a person who is privy to many secrets that will never be revealed to the public. Therefore, it must be someone whom the Rebbe trusts implicitly, and it must be someone who can take care of the Rebbe in a way that the Rebbe never would do himself.

HE HAD NO PATIENCE FOR KAVOD OR FOR ALL THE TRAPPINGS OF A REBBISHE HOIF. HE SIMPLY SAID, “IF PEOPLE COME BECAUSE THEY WANT TO BE CLOSE TO THE EIBERSHTER, THEN WE HAVE TO GIVE THEM A PLACE”

“I became an accidental chassid,” says Rabbi Benenfeld. “Growing up in a more Yekkish/ American family, I didn’t have much shaychus with chassidim However, my father’s side of the family did have a strong connec-

OUR FAMILY HAS MADE NOISE IN THE PAST

It's been the shocking melting sweetness of the Dolce family that made heads turn and brows rise in amazement.

WE'VE GROWN

With a variety of new flavors to shock your tastebuds, we're poised for the commotion to come.

PRODUCT OF ITALY

CHOLOV YISROEL

tion to the American version of the shtetl, as he grew up on the East Side. Here and there, my grandfather would schlep me to a Chanukah licht tzinden or to the first night of Selichos at the Viznitz Rebbe in Monsey — in fact, Selichos was my first exposure to chassidus and rebbes in general — but that was it. Then, when I went to yeshiva in Flatbush, I became acquainted with a few chassidish bochurim. One week, one of them schlepped me to the Kossover Rebbe’s tisch, which supposedly had the best kugel in town.”

That very first tisch was the beginning of a lifelong connection to Kossov, a connection that developed into a closeness that few were privileged to experience. Rabbi Benenfeld recalls with a rueful smile. “Going to a tisch for the kugel offended my Yekkish sensibilities. So I decided to time my visit, to come in just before the Rebbe would come in and leave right after. And I guess, in a sense, that I never left.”

Rabbi Benenfeld soon became a ben bayis in the Rebbe’s home, filling in as a baal korei when needed, and learning b’chavrusa with one of the Rebbe’s children during bein hazmanim. The Rebbe took a warm interest in the newly minted chassid, and he even guided a young Uri when it came time for shidduchim. “Interestingly, those shidduchim that looked good on paper were the ones that the Rebbe dismissed. The shidduch that ultimately became my zivug was approved by the Rebbe himself.”

A Quiet Greatness

The Rebbe’s greatness was in his very simplicity. “The closer I got to the Rebbe, the farther I realized I really was.” Rabbi Benenfeld says. The Rebbe eschewed kavod and would even pose as an everyman, chuckling at people’s jokes and talking to them on their level. “He had patience for the biggest nudniks, and believe me, there were plenty of them. Even though nothing was more precious to him than learning Torah, he would stay up for hours listening to tzebruchene mentchen. After a long night of talking to people and listening to their pain, you could tell that he hadn’t been just listening; he was really tzebruchen himself, and Yiddishe tzaros really ate at him.”

When the Kossover Rebbe sat with others, he never liked to sit at the head table, where all the rabbanim would sit. He would sit simply at the side, where anybody who wanted to talk to him could come right over. There was an extraordinary mannerism about him; he could laugh and joke with children and could come up with just the right quip to suit any occasion.

“The Rebbe was never one to accept kavod. Once, when we arrived at an affair, people started running, whispershouting, ‘The Kossover Rebbe is here! The Kossover Rebbe

THAT VERY FIRST TISCH WAS THE BEGINNING OF A LIFELONG CONNECTION TO KOSSOV, A CONNECTION THAT DEVELOPED INTO A CLOSENESS THAT FEW WERE PRIVILEGED TO EXPERIENCE

is here!’ The Rebbe, with his inimitable sense of humor, gave a dramatic bow to acknowledge them.”

However, when the Rebbe was occupied with learning or davening, he was in “hechere pletzer,” as Rabbi Benenfeld says. “He was simply not there, even when he was physically sitting right there.”

The Kossover Rebbe wasn’t just a rebbe, a leader of his flock. He was an unparalleled talmid chacham, and only after his petirah, when thousands of pages of his chiddushim were being collected and annotated, was the prodigious breadth of his Torah fully revealed. He was an enormously sought-after dayan who paskened some of the most complex shailos in modern times. He was the official dayan of Chesed Shel Emes of Boro Park, presiding over devastating and complicated shailos regarding kavod hameis, which came with tragic frequency during the Covid-19 pandemic.

Driving Greatness

As the Rebbe’s driver, Rabbi Benenfeld had a unique view of the Rebbe. He saw him in his everyday moments as well as during some of his most exalted ones.

“Whenever the Rebbe was in the car, he was always immersed in a sefer,” says Rabbi Benenfeld. “A week after Tisha B’Av, he was still learning the Kinnos in the car, because, as the Rebbe said, he hadn’t finished learning it in depth!”

Rabbi Benenfeld once experienced something that, for him, is his chassidishe meisah with the Rebbe.

“The Rebbe was supposed to be at two chuppahs in one night,” he begins, “one in Boro Park and the other in Williamsburg. The one in Boro Park was a takanah wedding, while the one in Williamsburg was a more lavish affair.

The Rebbe led by personal example, davening in backyard minyanim when the shuls were ordered to close down during the pandemic. When someone asked him about going to the mikvah, complaining that he had never missed immersing in a mikvah since his bar mitzvah, he said, “The Eibershter doesn’t work for the Guinness Book of World Records.”

“The Rebbe wasn’t afraid to pasken,” says Rabbi Benenfeld, “even when others may have felt differently. He never compromised on kavod hameis, and saving lives was his utmost priority. He was unhesitating in his guidance during the pandemic: Close the shuls for now, but keep the chadarim and schools open. Even when others were adamant that the schools needed to close to stop the spread of COVID, he said that children were never in danger, which was later reluctantly acknowledged by the authorities.”

THE REBBE WAVED HIM AWAY AND SAID, “WE’LL GET THERE MUCH QUICKER THAN YOU THINK. WE’RE STILL GOING TO HAVE TIME TO SPARE!”

“Things at the Boro Park chasunah were schlepping a bit, and the chuppah was delayed. The Rebbe waited calmly inside the hall until the music stopped, while the mechutan from Williamsburg was getting frantic. I started getting nervous, too. When we finally started making our way out of the hall, a Hatzolah volunteer asked if he should escort us with lights and sirens so that we would make it on time. The Rebbe waved him away and said, ‘We’ll get there much quicker than you think. We’re still going to have time to spare!’ As any Brooklynite knows, the traffic between Williamsburg and Boro Park has become terrible over the years, and the trip can take well over an hour, sometimes more. Even more so, at that hour, traffic was at its peak. What can I tell you? I’ve never experienced anything like it since. We made our way to Williamsburg in 20 minutes! On top of that, the Williamsburg chuppah was delayed because of an issue with the kesubah, so we got there just in time.”

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Rabbi Benenfeld says that some days, the Rebbe would be so busy running around from place to place that he literally wouldn’t stop to eat all day. Once, when they were in Lakewood, he begged the Rebbe to stop for a little while. He told him that his son, who lives in Lakewood, was waiting for him, so he could rest for a bit and get something to eat at his house.

“The Rebbe didn’t feel the need to stop,” Rabbi Benenfeld continues, “so I did the only thing I thought I could do: I said, ‘Maybe the Rebbe isn’t hungry, but I’m starving!’ That was the only way I could get the Rebbe to stop and eat.”

According to Rabbi Benenfeld, in all his years of driving the Rebbe, he never got a ticket.

“Actually, I did get a ticket once!” he remembers. “The one time I got a ticket was when the Rebbe told me, ‘I don’t think you should park here.’ I parked there anyway, telling the Rebbe that it was only for a short time. What do you know? That was the only time I got a ticket.”

Twilight

“During the Rebbe’s last Yom Kippur,” Rabbi Benenfeld says, “he was very weak. The doctors told him that the only way he could fast was if he took frequent breaks to rest. He wasn’t able to daven for the amud, and his sons had to step in. But on Motzei Yom Kippur, his simcha was indescribable! He was overjoyed that he had managed to fast, despite feeling so weak.”

Rabbi Benenfeld recalls those last months he had with the Rebbe. Al-

though he had received a dire prognosis of having only six months to live, the Rebbe lived for another full year. In that year, he accomplished more than others do in an entire lifetime. “He told me, ‘The Eibershter wants something from me. I don’t know what it is, but I have to accept it, and here I am.”

Losing the Rebbe meant losing a rebbe, a moreh derech, a leader of Klal Yisroel… and for Rabbi Benenfeld, a father figure.

“For his chassidim,” Rabbi Benenfeld says, “he was like a father in every way. Every good thing that I accomplish today is because I had the Rebbe in my life.”

Driving the Rebbe was never about the destination; it was about the moments in between. And for Rabbi Benenfeld, it wasn’t about the road ahead, but the journey itself that shaped his life and who he is today.

•

Personal reflections of the Kossover Rebbe, zt”l

Compiled by Hadassah Steinman

Miriam* shares:

When I got married, I knew my husband was a chassid of the Kossover Rebbe. As a bochur he would often go to Kossover tischen and talk in learning with the Rebbe. After our marriage, my husband was excited to include me in his connection to Kossov, and I will never, ever forget my first Kossov experience.

Shavuos was the first Yom Tov after our wedding, and the Shavuos davening was the first tefillah I attended in the Kossov beis midrash. Immediately, during the very first Shemonei Esrei, I knew the davening here was different. I had davened in shul all my years growing up; I knew what it was like. There would be hundreds of people, standing quietly and murmuring the tefillos, with only the turning of pages and the odd sneeze disturbing the silence.

But here in Kossov, it was different.

At first, there was pin-drop silence. There were hundreds of people squashed into the old beis midrash — people would come from far and wide to hear the Rebbe’s Akdamus — and there was complete silence.

Then came a piercing shriek that shattered the silence. “Oy vey, Tatte! Oy vey, Tatte!”

Who is that? I wondered.

Then it came again. “Oy vey, Tatte! ”

The shrieks sent shivers down my spine.

In time, I learned that this was the Rebbe calling out to his Father. Davening was so real to him, he would talk to Hakadosh Baruch Hu as if he were sharing a real conversation with a live being; in fact, to him it was a real conversation. Sometimes his davening would sound like a debate, or an argument, and other times, it was like he was shmoozing with his Father. Whether it was Shacharis, Mincha or Maariv, davening was all about talking to Hashem.

This davening swept the crowd along with the Rebbe. Davening in his presence was a whole different experience; it was like he gave his kehillah an injection of energy and connection with every tefillah

So there I was, that very first Shavuos, and soon it was time for Akdamus. I was looking forward to following along inside, as I had always done in the past.

On the other side of the mechitzah, the Rebbe went up to the bimah. All of a sudden, he threw himself over the Sefer Torah and burst into tears. For 45 minutes, he wept over the Sefer Torah, hugging it and crying as he said the words of Akdamus.

Akdamus speaks about the greatness of Hashem, and the Rebbe had gone into a different sphere. There was no following along; there was no way to hear the words through his tears.

It was as though he was in different olamos altogether. Then Akdamus came to an end, and he returned to his place.

Then came the selling of the aliyos before leining, and through the mechitzah, I watched my brand-new husband approach the Rebbe and

ask him something. With my nose pressed to the mechitzah, I watched their exchange, my curiosity mounting. What were they talking about? And how had my husband gathered the courage to approach this malach?

After davening, my husband updated me. He had wanted to ask the Rebbe, who was the most sought-after dayan in Boro Park, whether or not we could turn on the hot water tap from our kitchen sink on Yom Tov.

The Rebbe, notwithstanding the avodah he’d just put into Akdamus, launched into a discussion about plumbing — how boilers work, whether it was possible to turn off the water from under the sink in question, what had halachic ramifications and what didn’t, and so on.

All I could say was, “Really? The Rebbe discussed plumbing with you?”

“This is the Rebbe,” my husband said simply. “One minute he’s up there, and the next minute, he’s down here, among regular people.”

People said the Kossover Rebbe was down to earth. He wasn’t — not really. Only his heart was so big, and he loved Hashem so much, that he loved His children, too. And that’s why he lowered himself to reach and connect to the people who were drawn to his greatness.

Duvid

When I was a bochur, there was a long tekufah when I wasn’t in yeshiva. My parents, devastated, had reached out to the Kossover Rebbe to ask him for his help in getting me into a yeshiva — any yeshiva — but he had seen no success.

But the Rebbe didn’t feel like he’d done all he could to help me. As soon as he saw that I was going to be stuck without a yeshiva, he jumped in and offered to learn with me b’chavrusa

We learned together b’chavrusa for years, and celebrated one siyum after the next.

Since the Rebbe was the first address for many shailos that would come in from all over — including chevra kadisha organizations and other organizations that deal with delicate medical shailos — we were often interrupted by very important calls. Each time, the Rebbe would turn to me and ask permission to take the call. Every single time.

As a bochur, I was learning fairly well, but I didn’t see much hatzlacha in shiur iyun. I didn’t have the patience to delve into each sugya, and since it was such a struggle for me, I was getting no sipuk from the learning.

One day, I went in to the Kossover Rebbe to discuss this challenge.

Shloimy shares:

After explaining my difficulty, the Rebbe asked, “If I would review the material with you every Friday, and farher you on what you learned that week b’iyun, would that give you the cheshek you need?”

“I think so,” I said, awed by this opportunity.

From that week on, every single Friday found me at the Kossover Rebbe’s home to review my learning. This continued even when the Rebbe was already sick.

Baruch Hashem, eventually I found sipuk in iyun learning as well, all thanks to a Rebbe who did all he could for me — and for countless other bochurim just like me.

Faigy shares:

After my husband and I got married and moved into our tiny apartment, my brand-new husband called the Kossover Rebbe to ask about placing a mezuzah on a doorway that was a bit unusual. After my husband explained the details, which were a bit complicated, the Rebbe said he had to think about it and would let us know what to do.

After ending the call, my husband left for kollel Next thing I knew there was a knock at the door.

“Who is it?” I called.

“Shraga Hager,” came the reply.

In shock, I opened the door, and sure enough, there stood the Kossover Rebbe.

“Chaim asked a shailah about the mezuzah,” said the Rebbe, “but it’s hard to pasken over the phone. Can I see the doorway?”

I pointed to the doorway in question, and after glancing at it, the Rebbe said, “Tell Chaim that it doesn’t need a mezuzah.”

I closed the door, in awe of this man who was so great, he didn’t think it was a big deal to find out where we live and come over to see for himself what the shailah was all about.

Hershy shares:

After the Kossover Rebbe, zt”l, passed away, everyone coming to be menachem avel grew so much richer from the stories shared. When I was there, a chassid from Williamsburg said that he once had the opportunity to host the Rebbe for a Shabbos. His house had cameras in nearly every room, and after Shabbos, he found that the Rebbe had spent the entire night in his seforim room, learning. This was after a charged davening and a long tisch, but as other witnesses also claimed, it appeared that the Rebbe didn’t need to sleep, and recovered his kochos by delving into the depths of Torah.

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Case A Joy

of

Nesanel Yoel Safran

It started with music.

Not the kind you choose, but the kind that finds you.

A van was winding its way through our Yerushalayim neighborhood, slow and rumbling, oversized speakers strapped to its roof with faded tinsel and duct tape. It was playing “V’samachtaaaa b’chagechaaaa…” The bass thudded against the windowpanes. The tune, slightly off-key, snaked its way down the block and into the kitchen, where I was standing still, staring at my to-do list like I couldn’t read my own handwriting.

I knew what I was supposed to feel.

Joy. Anticipation. The uplift of Zman Simchaseinu.

The house was full of movement. Boxes, pots, folding chairs. The smells of brisket and cinnamontinged tzimmes, mixed with just a hint of floor polish. Kids yelling. Doors slamming. A neighbor shouting over the fence.

Inside: action.

Outside: simcha And me?

bottle for Shabbos and Yom Tov, and she usually finishes it. But today she wouldn’t take more than a sip. So I smelled it. And it smells off. Also, the color’s weird.”

I told her to bring it over.

She showed up five minutes later, toddler in tow, and holding the bottle like she was afraid it might fizz or pop.

I took the bottle and cracked it open.

The smell wasn’t off. It was just… unexpected.

“Tatty?” my daughter’s voice was tight. “Something’s wrong with the grape juice you gave me”

I couldn’t explain it, but I felt… apart. Like I was walking through the motions of someone else’s Yom Tov.

I stepped out into the night air, letting the screen door swing shut behind me.

The stars were coming out, one by one. Somewhere down the block, I could still hear the van’s music, softer now.

And I said it without planning to. Not a formal tefillah. Just a quiet line I barely heard myself speak.

“Ribbono Shel Olam, I want to feel it too… Just once. Show me how.”

I didn’t know why I said it. But I didn’t have much time to think about it, as 30 seconds later, my phone rang.

“Tatty?” my daughter’s voice was tight.

“What’s going on?”

“Something’s wrong with the grape juice you gave me.”

That snapped me back into the moment.

“The baby wouldn’t drink it,” she said. “I always mix a bit of grape juice with water in her

I poured a little into a glass. It shimmered, dark and clear. Not cloudy like spoiled juice. Not fizzy like something gone wrong. Just rich and smooth and almost glowing in the kitchen light.

I took a sip.

Then another.

It was wine. Dry. Balanced. Subtle. Not sweet, not sour. Very, very good wine.

But I hadn’t bought wine.

I looked at the bottle again: no label. Standard screw top. From one of the couple of cartons I’d ordered in bulk from that semi-private pre-Sukkos sale — a friend of a friend who sells overstock or end-of-run juice at near cost.

My son walked in just then, drawn by the hovering confusion.

“What’s going on?”

“Taste this,” I said, handing him the glass.

He sniffed it. “You know I don’t drink wine,” he said. “Maybe a little mixed into the grape juice at the Seder, but that’s it.”

“Just try.”

He shrugged and took a careful sip.

He looked at the glass, then at me.

“Nu, it’s wine.”

“It came from the grape juice carton,” I said,

Your moment is our obsession

“He said it’s impossible. They never use those bottles for wine. Like I thought, they don’t make dry wine in screw-tops. They only do juice in those containers”

holding up the bottle.

“But they don’t even make wine in these bottles.”

“I know.”

He blinked as I stared at the bottle, turning it slowly in my hand.

“I’ll check to see if the other case is okay,” he offered, disappearing toward the pantry.

My daughter sighed in relief as he returned a minute later with a more familiar-looking bottle — lighter in color, matching the usual dark amber hue of our local grape juice.

“Just that one box, it seems,” he said.

My daughter opened the new bottle and filled the baby’s sippy cup.

“Sorry, sheifelah,” she murmured, patting her daughter’s head. “Back to regular juice for you.”

I should have left it at that.

But I couldn’t.

It didn’t sit right. I hadn’t bought this wine. As far as I was concerned, it wasn’t mine. Not halachically, and not ethically.

“Call the company,” I told my son. “Tell them the story. Ask if we’re allowed to keep it.”

“You don’t want to just say it’s spoiled and get a refund?”

“No,” I said. “I want to know if we’re allowed to keep it.”

He called the next day.

“Tatty,” he said, sounding amused. “I had to go through two people to get to the owner.”

“And?”

“He said it’s impossible. They never use those bottles for wine. Like I thought, they don’t make dry wine in screw-tops. They only do juice in those containers.”

“But this is wine.”

“I know. I told him. He said, ‘No way. Can’t be.’ I asked if we could keep it. He said sure. He sounded like he was just glad we weren’t asking for a refund.”

So that was that.

A case of unbought wine. Unclaimed wine.

And Yom Tov was about to begin.

Let me be honest: Sukkos and I have always had a complicated relationship.

WVIEW

It’s a beautiful Yom Tov. The most freilach, they say. The most joyous. But simcha doesn’t come naturally to me.

I’m not a crowd person. I don’t like loud music. I don’t love folding chairs or sharing my soup with wasps. I’m not anti-social; I’m just… quiet.

So the very things that others find thrilling about Sukkos — the dancing in the streets, the outdoor seudos, the chassidishe nigunim pouring from open sukkahs well past midnight — those things made me feel like I was missing the point.

I’d tried wine in past years. A glass here, a cup there. After all, Chazal say it’s a man’s simchas Yom Tov. But it never worked for me. If I had enough to feel it, I’d get sleepy. Then I’d wake up dehydrated, with a mild hangover and even less interest in being freilach

But this year — this year I had different wine.

And something about it made me pause.

Maybe it was because it had arrived unbidden. Unexpected. Unexplained.

Maybe it was because it had appeared less than a minute after I’d whispered that quiet line on the porch.

I didn’t know. But I poured myself a glass.

The seudah was lively. The kids were chattering. Guests were laughing. I was doing my best to keep up.

The wine went down smooth. No bite. No burn. Just this deep warmth that filled me gently.

Still no haze. No sleepiness. No regret.

Just joy.

Real, quiet joy.

The kind that doesn’t need a reason.

After the guests left, I sat down on the sukkah couch and closed my eyes. I knew well that upon awakening I’d pay the price for my indulgence: the inevitable headache, the fuzzy mouth.

Instead, I woke up two hours later feeling… clear.

Not just physically. I was feeling both emotionally and spiritually clear.

Each day of Chol Hamoed followed the same rhythm.

A glass with lunch.

I’m not a crowd person. I don’t like loud music. I don’t love folding chairs or sharing my soup with wasps. I’m not anti-social; I’m just… quiet

A sip before saying the Ushpizin.

A refill after bentching

And each time, the same result. Uplift without fuzz. Joy without confusion. Simcha without stress.

I learned better that week than I had in months. Not because I had made a kabbalah. Not because I “pushed through.”

Just because I could

Because I wanted to.

The distractions were still there. The noisy neighbors. The sticky fingers. The rain on the s’chach. But none of it clashed anymore. It all blended into one sweet, imperfect, joyful cholent.

My wife noticed it first.

“You seem different this Yom Tov,” she said.

“I feel different,” I answered.

My married kids noticed it too. “You’re more… b’inyanim this year, Tatty,” one of them said gently, without judgment.

And I was.

I didn’t know how to explain it.

Except maybe — maybe — I was finally being let in.

By Simchas Torah, the wine was nearly finished.

I poured a small glass and said a quiet l’chaim to no one in particular.

Then I closed my eyes and remembered the night of Erev Yom Tov. The porch. The music. The whisper.

“Ribbono Shel Olam, I want to feel it too… Just once. Show me how.”

And then the wine showed up.

Not on wings. Not in a blaze of light. Just in a plain cardboard box.

But somehow — it had been enough.

There’s one sealed bottle of “miracle wine” left.

I keep it hidden in the back of the fridge, behind the dips and the defrosting soup.

I’m not sure when I’ll drink it.

Maybe next Sukkos.

Maybe never.

Maybe it was only meant for that one Yom Tov. A taste of something deeper. A reminder that sometimes the smallest things — a misplaced bottle, an offhand krechtz — can open something you didn’t know was closed.

Sometimes, simcha doesn’t come because you chased it. It comes because you asked. And it answers in its own way.

In a screw-top bottle, with no label, and no explanation.

Just a taste of sweetness from Above.

Nesanel Yoel Safran is a writer, chef and student of Torah and life. You can read about all of this and more on his blog Soul Foodie (soulfoodiecom. wordpress.com) and contact him at soulfoodie613@gmail.com.

They won’t see the sketches. The twelve versions of the floor plan. They’ll see the faucet. The handle. The vanity.

The greats don’t wonder if they got it right. They wonder what else was possible.

Complete your designTM 49

CHANA GLUCK

Back when sukkahs glistened with tinsel and boasted paper chains, the stars of the show were the shterens on the walls. Designed and crafted by hand from patterns that were often borrowed and carefully traced, they reflected the precision of its maker — if the patterns were perfectly copied to begin with.

Enter Mr. Yoel Friedman, a kollel yungerman with a knack for art and a zeal for perfection. His Sukkah Star kits revolutionized shteren-making at its core. No more guesswork. No more measuring. With pre-selected papers, a pattern, a sample image and instructions, every ambitious housewife or creative child could buy a kit with everything needed to make a shteren designed to be perfect.

Here Mr. Friedman shares the Sukkah Star story.

The Sukkah Star debuted when…

I’ve been into art since childhood. When I got married, my wife, like many other young women, began making stars for our sukkah. Those were the days when you borrowed shteren patterns from a sister or neighbor, or carefully copied the pattern over for yourself. I was bothered by the less-than-perfect results, so I began to make my own patterns. Some of the stars I created had the middle form a distinctive shape, such as a rose or clusters of grapes. Visitors to our sukkah were impressed and asked why I wasn’t selling my patterns. My mother, too, saw potential and encouraged me to turn the art into a business.

I started by selling traditional stars to schools. I later added an exclusive line of more sophisticated stars in different shapes like roses, grapes, a basket of shivas haminim fruits, and so on, some of them as sets of shterens designed to be displayed together as a collection.

Eventually, I was ready to go retail. Convincing the stores to carry my kits was a challenge at first. Mine was the first complete line of retail sukkah stars, and the stores weren’t sure they would sell. I would bring my own display stands and beg storeowners to make room for them. Now these proprietors come to me.

Sukkah stars then and now…

Back in the day, when people made shteren patterns themselves, the gaps between the layers weren’t perfect. I started my own designs using a copy machine that could

Place your order online at our website, by email, or by phone.

enlarge paper. That way, I could make each pattern piece a bit larger than the one before, yet still perfectly aligned, to create a precisely even sukkah star.

Additionally, people used to source the papers themselves. (Housewares stores like Hollander’s in Kiryas Yoel sold a variety of 70 to 80 colored papers, even providing a side-table for people to lay out and play around with their color choices.) But you couldn’t really know what the shteren would look like until it was done.

I create patterns and arrange colors using a computer program, which allows me to see the effect of each color and how each shade will reflect light. Each final kit comes with a sample picture, allowing customers to see precisely how their star will look before they start.

Are Shterens Traditional?

Stars are so steeped in tradition that it makes one wonder if there’s a minhag behind it. While there isn’t a specific mekor for star-shaped sukkah ornaments, chassidim have favored this noi sukkah for generations. The Kasho Ruv, Rav Refuel Blum, zt”l, would make shterens himself every year. Likewise, the sukkah of the Satmar Rebbe, zt”l, was decorated with many shterens Chassidim would vie for the privilege of making stars to be displayed in the Rebbe’s sukkah.

Sukkah Star Stats

Number of years in the business: 20

Busiest star seasons: After Shavuos and before the Yomim Noraim

Location with the most sales: Kiryas Yoel

Most popular star kit: Yerushalayim Star

Assembly time for a star: Between a half hour and 18 hours, depending on project size

Noteworthy star requests: One was a pattern of 91 papers to match the gematria of sukkah. Another customer asked for a massive 39x39” star (we used 36 colors repeated thrice to form 108 layers). Finally, we were tasked to design a pair of five-foot-tall palm trees in Kiryas Yoel, for the Satmar Rebbe, shlit”a

Our stars stand out because…

They integrate regular paper with the traditional metallic shteren paper. I found that a fully foil star will reflect too much when under direct light, but will appear dull and muted when away from direct light. Additionally, metallic foil cannot fully capture certain bright shades, such as shiny yellow or vibrant orange.

To bring out the best in our star designs, we combine regular paper and foil for a combination of the nicest shades.

I source shteren paper from…

Literally all over. My goal is to create the nicest noi sukkah, and I look everywhere to find just the right paper for each element of a pattern. For example, one of the papers in our jewel star is a color-changing paper that I could only source from one company in Switzerland. If a supplier discontinues a paper, I might need to revise an entire project. I had that with one of the papers in our ushpizin star, which led me to revamp the entire design into something much more elaborate and three-dimensional.

The tools I use to create star kits are…

A drawing program that lets me create patterns and preview the final result. Once that’s decided, I assemble a sample and send it to a photographer for a shoot.

To cut the shteren paper to size, I use a sheeter — a machine that cuts rolled paper — and a cutter, which cuts paper sheets. The sheeter will unroll the paper and cut at the pre-programmed number of inches.

When it comes to style and color…

In terms of style, in general, where they used to do heavier woodwork, parquet with borders and wall sconces, there are now modern curves and airier, cleaner designs. These trends also influence our designs. But since the sukkah star itself is more of a traditional item that just won’t work with gray, black and gold, and only with straight lines, I aim for an in-between approach.

The most popular color groups are blue and purple. Customers sometimes ask if I can bring in new colors, but I can only work with what’s on the color spectrum. My job is to balance each item so its colors are neither too childish nor too dull.

While I used to follow realistic colors when creating shterens in the shape of objects like a flower or

Keep Calm and Read Instructions

One of our objectives when creating our kits is to make them easy to follow. We include a picture of the completed star, a pattern piece for each layer, papers, instructions and tips. Our kits are foolproof — for those who read instructions. But since shteren kits entered the market after years of people creating stars themselves, customers will sometimes draw on that experience, skip the instructions and get straight to work.

We once got a call from a distraught woman who had bought a $45 kit and proceeded to cut off an inch from each side of each paper, just like she used to do when designing her own shterens. Then she took out the pattern and realized she’d ruined it all. In the end, we sold her more paper at wholesale price.

It’s important to remember that even if you’re a shteren expert, each kit comes with instructions for that particular star, and it’s important to read through the entire thing.

Giftable

A sukkah star kit can make a unique gift. We’ve had principals buy them for staff members and camps for their counselors. We’ve even had mothers purchase, assemble and frame sukkah stars for their children’s melamdim

Tips of the Trade

Making a sukkah shteren can seem very time-consuming, but the good news is that it doesn’t have to be done all at once. A great way to make it simpler is to pack a small bag containing pattern pieces, scissors and paper clips so the supplies are all in one place for whenever you have the time to work on it.

Don’t open all the papers before you’re ready to assemble the star.

Protect your shteren papers from warping by putting them under the glass of a glass-topped table or under a heavy book. If the paper is already warped, you can wrap it around your finger and curl it in the opposite direction.

Don’t use dull-edged scissors or nail scissors. It pays to invest $10 in a good pair of scissors that will be used exclusively for star projects.

For the best grip, use an 8-inch scissors, and cut at the deepest part of the blades, not at the edges.

Hold the paper as straight as you can while cutting. You can put the other edge of the paper on the table to achieve that. When cutting a few shteren papers at a time, you can add a staple if the paper feels too flimsy, but be careful to place it in a spot that won’t be visible in the design.

Assembled stars must be covered in plastic to prevent warping. You can buy the plastic at your local housewares or hardware store.

a bird, I’ve found that people don’t always mind if the colors on their projects aren’t realistic; they just need to look attractive. I’ve designed flowers in bright, unrealistic colors, and then received feedback on how pretty they look in the sukkah. Personally, I prefer to stick as closely as possible to reality. My new parakeet set is one item I was able to design that way.

Times have changed because…

Traditional stars were more popular when people had wooden sukkahs, as they were easier to display with thumb tacks or staples. The roll-down sukkahs of today are more challenging to decorate, and some feature murals. The good news

is that there are items that work in those sukkahs, such as double-sided tape and Velcro.

Shterens were also made by balabustas when they had the time for handiwork. Today’s busy women are less inclined to patchke, whether it’s shterens or fancy cakes; they’d rather buy them ready. But stars aren’t available for purchase like that. For those who really like shterens but don’t have the time to assemble them and don’t mind adding the extra few dollars, there are people who assemble star kits as a service.

Today, there is a greater demand for the poster-style shterens in our collection. These have fewer layers than traditional stars, but people still appreciate the vibrant colors and art in every detail and are amazed to see the end result of a pile of cut papers.

C.

G.

J.

we’ll take care of the little ones!!

LARGEST SELECTION OF THE MOST POPULAR TRAVEL STROLLERS

DOONA VACATION SPECIAL EDITION LIMITED QUANTITY. NEW DOONA HOODS NOW AVAILABLE $49.99

C.

K. L.

Have a Gut Yom Tov! A.

WIDE SELECTION OF BUGGY BOARDS TO FIT ALL CARRIAGES

STUNNING SELECTION OF BRACELETS, KEVER ROCHEL RED STRINGS, AMBEEZ BRACELETS AND NECKLACES

HUGE SELECTION OF RATTLES, TOYS, WALKERS ETC.

LARGEST SELECTION OF BOTTLES, PACIFIERS, BIBS, CLIPS ETC.

BACK IN STOCK BABY LUXE SLIM GLIDER- ONLY 29”

TRAVEL SAFE- CAR SEATS AND BOOSTERS

CALM YOUR BABY WITH A SWING OR BOUNCER STARTING AT $49.99 BOOSTERS AND HIGHCHAIRS- FOLDABLE, WHEELS STARTING AT $29.99

VAST SELECTION OF BASSINETS, PORTER CRIBS, REGULAR CRIBS, PACK ‘N PLAYS STARTING 49.99. AVAILABLE EXTRA MATTRESSES AND BEDDING IN STOCK.

SAFETY GATES FROM ONE TO TWELVE FEET OPENINGS.

L.

K.

As we present our latest Excursions Trip Guide, please keep the following in mind.

We took great care to present up-to-the-minute information. However, before heading out anywhere, we advise you to verify the hours, inquire about prices, and make reservations in advance whenever possible. Some venues will not let you in once full, and others require reservations even though they did not state so.

We present this list for informational purposes only; it is not an endorsement of any specific attraction, and discretion should be used.

Dear Readers,

Since our launch six months ago, you’ve welcomed The Williamsburg View into your home for the top-quality entertainment and enrichment you find in these pages. We appreciate your trust and consistently strive to offer content on the highest possible standards. This is especially true for our Yom Tov gift to you: The Williamsburg View’s Excursions supplement.

In creating this trip guide, we’ve carefully researched each listing for up-to-the-minute information so you can be confident in your itinerary. On Chol Hamoed, enjoy this comprehensive guide of destinations for original, exciting experiences. In the following pages, you’ll find ideas for outings, trips and visits that create the perfect backdrop for family time over Chol Hamoed. We’ve included destinations that are close by as well as within reasonable driving distance, and cover a wide range of activities for every age and for varied interests and abilities. You can rely on Excursions to help you create an exciting itinerary that’s perfect for your family.

Thank you for making us part of your simchas Yom Tov. From the entire team at The Williamsburg View, we wish you a safe trip, tons of fun, and memories that will last a lifetime.

Ah gutten moed!

The

Williamsburg View

Parks and Scenic

PLEASE BE ADVISED THAT SOME PARKS HAVE PARKING FEES.

Bear Mountain State Park

3006 Seven Lakes Drive, Bear Mountain, NY 10911 845-786-2701

Great hiking, climbing, picnicking and grilling destination with lake, zoo, museum, carousel and boating in warmer weather

Hours: Dawn to dusk. Trailside Zoo (April 1 to November 30): 10:00 a.m.-4:30 p.m.

Price: Park: Free. Parking: $10 per vehicle. Trailside Zoo: Suggested donation $1.00 per person

Brooklyn Bridge Park

334 Furman Street, Brooklyn, NY 11201 718-222-9939

Beautiful park with novel play areas, sand areas, carousel, swings, slide mountain, marsh garden and more. Limited parking — best visited by public transportation.

Hours: 6:00 a.m.-1:00 a.m.

Price: Free

Buttermilk Falls County Park

199 S Greenbush Road, Orangeburg, NY 10962 845-364-2670

Trails with stream and waterfall

Hours: Dawn to dusk

Price: Free

Blauvelt State Park

Blauvelt, NY 10913

Undeveloped state park with hiking trails and WWI-era tunnels, rifle range and ruins. Access points detailed in Issue 103 of The Monsey View.

Hours: Dawn to dusk

Price: Free

Bushkill Falls

138 Bushkill Falls Trail, Bushkill, PA 18324 888-287-4545

This attraction is great for all ages.

Hours: Chol Hamoed hours: 9:00 a.m.–6:00 p.m. Last entry is at 5:00 p.m.

Price: General Admission: $20; Seniors (62+) $19; Children (4–10) $10; Children 3 and younger: Free

Celery Farm Nature Preserve

Franklin Turnpike, Allendale, NJ 07401 500 feet after Cottage Place at small parking lot

Untouched wetland, one-mile trail around lake, with meadow and small streams and sightings of birds, butterflies, fish and other animals

Hours: 6:00 a.m.–8:00 p.m.

Price: Free

Parks and Scenic

PLEASE BE ADVISED THAT SOME PARKS HAVE PARKING FEES.

Central Park

New York, NY 212-310-6600

Sprawling 843-acre park with pedicabs, biking, boating, picnicking, zoo, carousel and lots of grass

Hours: 6:00 a.m.-1:00 a.m.

Price: Park entrance free. Zoo and activities have separate charges.

Clark Recreation Center

59 Campbell Avenue, Airmont, NY 10952

Shaded park with large playground, basketball and tennis court, and picnic tables

Hours: 9:30 a.m.–4:30 p.m.

Price: Free

Children’s Park

11 Grotke Road, Spring Valley, NY 10977

Beautiful park with three playstations, pond, picnic tables and benches, shaded trails, and basketball court

Hours: 8:00 a.m.–7:00 p.m.

Price: Free

Croton

Gorge Park/Croton Dam

Breathtaking man-made falls with dramatic drop and spillway, with playground, picnicking and hiking

Hours: 8:00 a.m.–7:30 p.m. Note: Park does not allow cars in once parking lot is full.

Price: Free

Demarest Kill County Park

Hiking trail, picnic area and benches around a pond

Hours: 7:00 a.m.–7:30 p.m. Price: Free

Lake Park

Hours: Open 24 hours

Small historic garden with walking paths, gazebo, and tea house behind Rockland County Courthouse

Hours: Sunrise to sunset. 2-hour limit in parking area

Price: Free

Ellenville Fault Ice Caves

Hours: Ice Cave Hike open in spring and summer. Other hikes open all year round.

Price: Parking: $10 per vehicle. Online parking reservations are required weekends and holidays from April 19 to November 16. Parking lot fills up early and is closed when full.

Eugene Levy Memorial Park

Beautiful park with lush, grassy areas, novel play equipment, trails, pond, picnic tables and stargazing platform

Hours: 8:00 a.m.–9:00 p.m.

Price: Free Finch Park

Beautiful, sprawling park with sandbox, benches, picnic table, playground and medieval era-themed equipment

Price: Free

Parks and Scenic

PLEASE BE ADVISED THAT SOME PARKS HAVE PARKING FEES.

Flushing Meadows Corona Park

Flushing Meadows Corona Park, Corona, NY 11368 718-760-6565

Spacious park with playground, carousel and bike rentals on-site

Hours: 6:00 a.m.–9:00 p.m.

Price: Free

Grace Lord Park

Plane St, Boonton, NJ 07005 973-402-9410

Park with adorable playground and hiking path alongside a river that also features a waterfall

Hours: Dawn to dusk

Price: Free

Goosepond Mountain State Park

1198 New York 17M, Chester, NY 10918 845-786-2701

Undeveloped state park with woods, fields, trails and wetlands

Hours: Dawn to dusk

Price: Free

Gravesend Park 18th Avenue between 56 and 57 212-639-9675

Exciting playgroud equipment for all ages with plenty of sitting areas, and small bike trail

Hours: 6:00 a.m.–1:00 a.m.

Price: Free

Gregory R. Sikorsky Children’s Park

35

Sunny fenced-in playground with nearby jogging path around a pond with a water fountain

Hours: Dawn to dusk

Price: Free

Kingsland Point Park and the Sleepy Hollow Lighthouse

18-acre park on Hudson River shore with overlook areas of Tarrytown lighthouse

Hours: Open 8 a.m. to dusk, year–round. The lighthouse is closed but can be viewed from the outside.

Price: $10 parking fee between Memorial Day and Labor Day; rest of year free

Leif Ericson Park

A cozy park spanning several blocks with a nice playground for younger kids

Hours: 6:00–1:00 a.m.

Price: Free

Haverstraw Bay County Park

21 Gagan Road, West Haverstraw, NY 10993

Park bordering the Hudson River with great playgrounds, grassy picnic areas with grilling, boardwalk and walking path

Hours: Dawn to dusk

Price: Free

Welch Beach

Gorgeous half-mile man-made beach open for picnicking in the fall and winter

Hours: Chol Hamoed hours: 8:00 a.m.–4:00 p.m., picnicking only. No swimming or wading allowed. Please note: Entrance gates close at 3:30 p.m.

Price: Parking: $10 (cash only) during swimming season

Liberty

State

Park

535 Freedom Way, Jersey City, NJ 07305

Park featuring a playground, paths along the Hudson River with views of Manhattan, and a ferry to the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island

Hours: 6:00 a.m.–10:00 p.m.

Price: Free

Hours:

Parks and Scenic

PLEASE BE ADVISED THAT SOME PARKS HAVE PARKING FEES.

Large

Hours:

Nomahegan Park

995 Springfield Avenue, Cranford, NJ 07016

Park with walking path, playground, fields, a small lake and many picnic tables

Hours: 7:00 a.m.–8:00 p.m.

Price: Free

Nyack Memorial Park

4 Depew Avenue, Nyack, NY 10960

Park with pier, playground, gazebo, splash pad and great river views

Hours: 8:00 a.m.–9:00 p.m.

Price: Metered parking at the parking lot by the boat Parking lot is closed. Park at the Nyack Municipal Boat Launch and cross the Nyack Memorial Park Inlet Bridge.

Hudson River park with small beach for children and long riverside trail with benches that leads to Rockland Lake Park

Hours: Dawn to dusk

Price: Parking: $8

Hours: 6:00 a.m.–10:00 p.m.

Price: Free

Scenic park with panoramic city and riverfront views featuring a skate park, a playground and biking paths

Hours: 6:00–1:00 a.m.

Price: Free

Piermont Pier

Hours: April 1 to November 30, weather permitting.

Price: Free

Prospect Park

A vast 526-acre oasis in the heart of Brooklyn — and the only local park with a lake — offering bike and boat rentals

Hours: 6:00 a.m–1:00 a.m.

Price: Free

Hours: 6:00 a.m.–9:00 p.m.

Ramapo Valley Reservation

Hours:

Parks and Scenic

PLEASE BE ADVISED THAT SOME PARKS HAVE PARKING FEES.

Regatta Playground

9 Cherry Lane, West Orange, NJ 07052

Large playground near Turtle Back Zoo and Essex County Paddle Boating

Hours: 8:00 a.m.–10:00 p.m.

Price: Free

Ringwood Manor State Park

Beautiful 4,400-acre park with trails, picnicking and streams. NJ Botanical Gardens and Shepherd Lake is part of the park but accessed via a different point.

Hours: 8:00 a.m.–8:00 p.m.

Price: Free

Rockefeller State Park Preserve 125 Phelps Way, Pleasantville, NY 10570 914-631-1470

Scenic paths through wetlands, woodlands, meadows, fields, streams, rivers and lakes, and traversing bridges and carriage roads

Hours: Dawn to dusk

Price: Free Rockland Lake

Park with picnic tables, grilling, hiking trails, novel climbing equipment and a bike path around Rockland Lake

Hours: Dawn to dusk

Price: Free Ross Dock Picnic Area

Gorgeous scenic waterfront park with picnic tables, trails, playground and views of the Hudson River and George Washington Bridge

Hours: 6:00 a.m.–9:00 p.m.

Price: Free

Saddle River County Park

Wild

Saddle River Area Bike Path stretching for nearly six miles along a linear

Hours: Dawn to dusk

Price: Free

Ruach Hachaim Park 49 Larkin Drive, Monroe, NY 10950 845-774-7275

Park featuring separate boys’ and girls’ sections with a variety of interesting equipment and activities

Hours: From 3:00 p.m. until sundown

Price: Free

Scenic Hudson Park

Well-kept park with playgrounds and a walkway with amazing Hudson River views

Hours: 7:00 a.m.–10:00 p.m.

Price: Free

SCHORR PRESENTS

JUST GO

BORO PARK: REIGER HALL 1362-50

Motzei Yom Tov Oct.8 9:15 Thursday Oct. 9 4:45 & 8:15 *11:00 (late show) Friday Oct. 10 12:15 Motzei"S Oct. 11 9:15 Sunday Oct. 12 4:15 & 7:45

LAKEWOOD

MONSEY

Motzei Yom Tov Oct.8 9:15 Thursday Oct. 9 4:30 & 8:30 Friday Oct. 10 12:15 Motzei"S Oct. 11 9:15 Sunday Oct. 12 4:15 & 7:45

Yom Tov Oct. 8 9:15 Thursday Oct 9 8:30 Motzei"S 9:15

Parks and Scenic

PLEASE BE ADVISED THAT SOME PARKS HAVE PARKING FEES.

Scenic Hudson Riverwalk Park

250 W. Main Street, Tarrytown, NY 10591 914-631-8347

Waterfront park with riverside esplanade and magnificent views, which can be reached via Tappan Zee Express

Hours: 6:30 a.m.–6:00 p.m.

Price: Free

Seven Lakes Drive

Seven Lakes Drive, Tomkins Cove, NY 10986

Scenic drive of almost 18 miles going through Harriman and Bear Mountain State Park

Hours: All day

State

Line Lookout

Closter, NJ, GPS: 40.988412, -73.908272

Lookout point right off the Palisades Parkway

Hours: 6:00 a.m.–9:00 p.m.

Price: Free

Tallman Mountain State Park

Route 9W, Sparkill NY 10976 845-359-0544

Shaded park with trails, paths, picnic areas, tennis court and small playground

Hours: Dawn to dusk

Price: Parking: $8

Teatown Lake Reservation

1600 Spring Valley Road, Ossining, NY 10562 914-762-2912

Tranquil nature reserve with a great lakeside loop with swinging bridge and interesting nature center

Hours: Dawn to dusk; nature center: 9:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m.

Price: Parking: $7

The

Battery

Along State Street, New York, NY 10004

212-344-3491

Large historic nature park with playground, walking paths, views of Ellis Island and Statue of Liberty, with ferry service to both islands

Hours: Park: March 2 to October 31; Open 7:00 a.m.–9:00 p.m.

Price: Free

Sunset Park

7th Avenue and 43rd Street, Brooklyn, NY 11232

212-639-9675

Park with novel play equipment, biking and jogging paths and great city views

Hours: 6:00 a.m.–1:00 a.m.

Price: Free

TALI AVRAHAMI

Parks and Scenic

PLEASE BE ADVISED THAT SOME PARKS HAVE PARKING FEES.

The Louis Engel Waterfront Park

160 Westerly Road, Ossining, NY 10562

845-941-3189

Park with amazing Hudson River views, great to visit in conjunction with Haverstraw-Ossining Ferry

Hours: 8:00 a.m. to dusk. Note: Park does not allow cars in once parking lot is full.

Price: Free

Watkins Glen State Park

1009 N. Franklin Street, Watkins Glen, NY 14891 607-535-4511

Rocky cliffs, cascading waterfalls and scenic views from rim trails, plus lakes for trout fishing

Walkway Over the Hudson

Highland Entrance: 87 Havilland Road, Highland, NY 12528 Poughkeepsie Entrance: 61 Parker Avenue, Poughkeepsie, NY 12601

845-454-9649

1.28-mile elevated pedestrian bridge over the Hudson River with 21-story elevator (elevator may close in extreme weather). Note: Elevator closed during winter months.

Hours: 7:00 a.m.–sunset. Elevator opens: 9:00 a.m. Closes: 90 minutes prior to park closing.

Price: Free

PARKS AND SCENIC

Hours: Park is open year round, dawn to dusk.

Price: Parking: $10

Willow Tree Park

121 Willow Tree Road, Monsey, NY 10952

Massive willow trees cascading over beautiful lake with bike path around the lake

Hours: Dawn to dusk

Price: Free

Winter’s Park

47 East Ramapo Avenue, Mahwah, NJ 07430

Childrens’ park with playground, gazebo, pond and geese feeding

Hours: 7:30 a.m.–8:00 p.m.

Price: Free

TOURNAMENT TOURNAMENT 3

BORO PARK:

Your pieces are at risk now, Olga You've run out of moves Nechuma

Maybe I didn't win the game, Nechuma But I was keen enough to stay in it until the very last match Olga

ATERES GOLDA 1370 - 50TH

MOTZEI YT OCT.8 9:30

THURSDAY OCT. 9 4:30 & 8:00 & 10:45

FRIDAY OCT. 10 12:30

MOTZEI SHABBOS OCT. 11 9:30

SUNDAY OCT. 12 4:30 & 8:00

To organize an out of town showing 7182906797 | out of town prices vary to view trailer: tournamentthree3@gmail.com

LAKEWOOD:

YESHIVAH KTANA 120-2ND ST.

MOTZEI YT OCT.8 9:30

THURSDAY OCT. 9 8:45

FRIDAY OCT. 10 12:30

MOTZEI SHABBOS OCT. 11 9:30

SUNDAY OCT. 12 4:30 & 8:15

MONSEY:

ATRIUM 401 WEST RT 59

MOTZEI YT OCT.8 9:30

THURSDAY OCT. 9 4:45 & 8:45

FRIDAY OCT. 10 12:30

MOTZEI SHABBOS OCT. 11 9:30

SUNDAY OCT. 12 4:30 & 8:00

Can be viewed independently of Tournament 1&2

CATSKILLS: BY SOUTH FALLSBURG 5478 ROUTE 42

MOTZEI YT OCT. 8 9:30

THURSDAY OCT. 9 8:45

MOTZEI SHABBOS OCT.11 9:30

Admission $45 Cash or check Discount - Friday $35

Botanical Gardens

Brookyn Botanic Gardens

990 Washington Avenue, Brooklyn, NY 11225

718-623-7200

Premier public gardens spread over 52 acres

Hours: Tuesday to Thursday: 10:00 a.m.–8:00 p.m., Friday to Sunday: 10:00 a.m.–6:00 p.m., Monday: closed.

Price: Adults: $22; Seniors (65+): $16; Students 12+ with ID: $16; Children under 12: Free

Lasdon Park, Arboretum & Veterans Memorial

2610 NY-35, Katonah, NY 10536 914-864-7263

Gardens, trails and a nature sanctuary for public use

Hours: 8:00 a.m.–4:00 p.m.

Price: Free

Laurelwood Arboretum

725 Pines Lake Drive West, Wayne, NJ 07470

973-831-5675

30-acre botanically diverse property with woodlands, gardens, ponds and streams

Hours: 8:00 a.m. to dusk

Price: Free

New Jersey Botanical Gardens

5 Morris Road, Ringwood, NJ 07456

973-962-9534

Well-maintained Tudor revival manor home with a selection of formal and seasonal gardens

Hours: 8:00 a.m.–8:00 p.m. daily; winter until 6:00 p.m.

Price: Free

Longwood Gardens

1001 Longwood Road, Kennett Square, PA 19348 610-388-1000

Vast collection of flower gardens, greenhouses and fountain shows

Hours: Monday, Wednesday, Thursday: 10:00 a.m.–6:00 p.m.; Friday, Sunday: 10:00 a.m.–9:00 p.m.; Tuesday: closed. Advance timed entry ticket purchase required. On-site tickets only available if not sold out.

Price: Adults (19+): $32; Seniors (62+): $28; Youths (5–18): $17; Children (0-4): Free. SNAP/EBT/PA cardholders: Card and matching Photo ID required; max 4 people per card: $2

New York Botanical Garden

2900 Southern Boulevard, Bronx, NY 10458 718-817-8700

250-acre verdant landscape with over a million plants, voted as one of the best botanical gardens in the U.S.

Hours: The garden is open 10:00 a.m.–6:00 p.m., Tuesday through Sunday. Closed Mondays.

Price: Adults: $35; Students (with valid ID): $31; Seniors (65+): $31; Children (2–12): $15; Children under 2: Free. Free admission on Wednesdays from 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m.

Untermyer Park and Gardens

945 N. Broadway, Yonkers, NY 10701

914-613-4502

Relaxing landscaped park on over 40 acres, centered on a walled Persian Garden, with gorgeous Hudson River views, trails and picnic spot

Hours: 9:00 a.m.–6:00 p.m.

Price: Free

This stunning 28-acre estate of public horticultural gardens is situated on

Hours: Tuesday to Sunday: 10:00 a.m.–5:30 p.m. Last admission is 30 minutes before closing. Monday: closed.

Price: Parking: $13. Adults: $10; Students: $6; Seniors (65+): $6; Children (6+): $4. Admission is free on Thursdays.

BOTANICAL GARDENS

Learn a simple proven method on releasing emotions. Let go of distressing emotions and access your inner power. Get in touch with your true light and reclaim your splendor. Experience peace, acceptance, and connection to Hashem.

November 5

Wave Hill Public Gardens

Farms and Orchards

Abma’s Farm

700 Lawlins Road, Wyckoff, NJ 07481

201-891-0278

Well-maintained farm with petting zoo, fresh produce and plants; food for the animals available for sale

Hours: 9:00 a.m.–6:00 p.m.; last entry at 5:00 p.m.

Price: Prices start at $5.50; child under 24 months enters free.

Apple Dave’s Orchard

NY 10990 845-986-1684

Apple-picking orchard with eleven varieties of apples

Hours: Chol Hamoed hours not yet posted at time of print.

Price: Admission: $5 per person on weekends, free on non-holiday weekdays. Peck bag of apples is $30; halfbushel bag of apples is $45.

Family Fun Farm

Alstede Farms

1 Alstede Farms Lane, Chester, NJ 07930

908-879-7189

Current attractions include petting zoo, and seasonally, pony rides, wagon train rides and bounce house

Hours: Chol Hamoed prices and hours not yet posted at time of print.

Dr. Davies Farm

Historic 35-acre apple orchard with trailer rides

Hours: Orchard open 10:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m.

Price: Admission: $17 per person. This includes a half-peck bag (7–10 lb.). This is required for all guests over age 3. Half bushel (25–30 lb.): $62. The large bag includes admission for up to 5 people. Cash only.

Hours: Chol Hamoed hours: Thursday & Sunday: 12:00 p.m.–6:00 p.m.; Friday: 12:00 p.m.–4:00 p.m.

Price: Prices start at $22 per person.

Harvest

Moon Farm

Goldschein’s Homestead

Big farm with variety of animals. Kids can enter animal enclosures. Many exciting activities and hike with gorgeous views.

Hours: Chol Hamoed hours: Thursday & Sunday: 11:00 a.m.–6:00 p.m.; Friday: 11:00 a.m.–4:00 p.m.

Price: Admission: $17; under 2 free

Hurds Family Farm

Farm with apple picking, corn maze, bounce pillow, giant slide and more

Hours: Pick-Your-Own: 9:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m.; Activities: 10:00 a.m.–4:00 p.m.

Price: Apples: half-peck bag: $14; Activities wristband starts at $25 online.

Farms and Orchards

Jenkins - Lueken Orchards

69 Yankee Folly Road, New Paltz, NY 12561

845-255-0999

Apple picking in September and October

Hours: Berry picking season begins in July.

Lawrence Orchard and Farm

39 Colandrea Road, Newburgh, NY 12550

845-562-4268

Fruit picking and farm with goats and horses. Also features wooden playhouses.

Hours: 9:00 a.m.–4:00 p.m.

Price: Admission fee at the gate: $7 per person

Monday to Thursday; $10.00 per person Friday to Sunday & holidays, plus price of fruit picked. Online admission $6 per person. Baby (0–2): Free

Lee Turkey Farm

201 Hickory Corner Road, East Windsor, NJ 08520

609-448-0629

Turkey farm also featuring pick-your-own fruits and vegetables

Hours: Monday to Friday: 9:00 a.m.–6:00 p.m.; Sunday 2:00 p.m.–6:00 p.m.; Last entry 5:00 p.m.

Price: Adult (13–64): $38; Senior (65+): $36; Child (5–12): $28; Child (0–4): free. The museum offers free admission for EBT cardholders, up to 3 guests. Must have valid photo ID.

Masker Orchards

45 Ball Road, Warwick, NY 10990

845-986-1058

Apple-picking orchard

Hours: 9:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m.

Price: Admission is free. One-bag purchase ($39.95) required per carload.

Kelder’s Farm

5755 US-209, Kerhonkson, NY 12446

845-626-7137

Picking farm with playground, mini golf, petting zoo, corn maze and many other activities

Hours: 10:00 a.m.–6:00 p.m.

Price: Price starts at $15.95 per person (3–79); Under 3 and over 80 enter free.

Muscoot Farm

51 Route 100, Katonah, NY 10536

914-864-7282

Great farm with over 50 animals, hiking trails, picnicking, and historical barns and buildings

Hours: 10:00 a.m.–4:00 p.m.

Price: Free

Feel the

rill

in every spoon!

Farms and Orchards

Och’s Orchard

4 Ochs Lane, Warwick, NY 10990

845-986-1591

Offers pick-your-own apples, tomatoes and veggies, and picnic area with sweeping views

Hours: 9:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m.

Price: 1/4-bushel bag: $21 (10–12 lb.); 1/2-bushel bag: $38 (20–22 lb.)

Pennings Orchards

Apple orchard that also features a play area, farm animal barn, goat area and picnic areas

Hours: 9:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m.

Price: $45 admission per car, includes a halfbushel bag to fill with apples up to 22 pounds.

Stuart’s Farm

62 Granite Springs Road, Granite Springs, NY 10527

914-245-2784

Autumn apple and pumpkin picking and hayrides on weekends

Outhouse Orchards

139 Hardscrabble Road, North Salem, NY 10560

914-277-3188

Apple picking farm with a corn maze

Hours: 9:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m.

Price: Weekday: Online: $15.98; At the gate: $18.00. Weekend: Online: $19.45; At the gate: $22.00

Rockland Bee Tours

Tour of a honey-bee farm (located in West Maple Farm)

Hours: Advance reservations required.

Price: $20 per person

Hours: 10:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m.

Price: Pay per bag of apples picked.

Sun High Orchards

19 Canfield Avenue, Randolph, NJ 07869

973-584-4734

Pick your own seasonal fruits, purchase flowers, and pet a donkey and alpaca; hayrides on fall weekends

Hours: Chol Hamoed prices and hours not yet posted at time of print.

Riamede Farm

908-879-7762

An old-fashioned apple-picking orchard

Hours: Wednesday & Monday 9:00 a.m.–5:30 p.m. Tuesday: closed. Last entry for picking: 4:00 p.m.

Price: Weekdays: $3.50; Weekends (includes activities): $14.50. $4 discount for weekend tickets purchased online. In addition, you pay for what you pick.

White Post Farm

Fun farm with animals, bird aviaries, monkey barn, giraffe experience and playground

Hours: 10:00 a.m.–6:00 p.m. Last admission 5:00 p.m.

Price: $33.95. Online purchase: $29.95. Cash discount available only in person at the farm. Same price per child and adult. Child up to 15 months free.

West Maple Farm 179 West Maple Avenue, Monsey, NY 10952

845-288-1978

Petting zoo for all ages, hayrides, play and picnic area

Hours: Chol Hamoed hours: 9:30 a.m.–7:00 p.m.; Hoshana Rabbah 9:30 a.m.–5:00 p.m.

Price: $10 admission; $4 hayride; Under 1 is free; $20 bee tours. Bee tours must be booked ahead of time and are not recommended for children under age 5.

Yiddish Farm Education Center 71 Dzierzek Lane, New Hampton, NY, 10958

845-360-5023

Outdoor education center for Yiddish-speaking children

Hours: Call for Chol Hamoed hours and pricing.

FARMS AND ORCHARDS

Indoor Fun

Altitude Trampoline Park

Trampoline park featuring lots of climbing and jumping fun

Hours: Sunday: 11:00 a.m.–8:00 p.m.; Weekdays: 10:00 a.m.–9:00 p.m.

Price: Prices start at: $22.77 for 1-hour pass. $22 cash price.

Bouncy House Magic

An indoor inflatables park that provides kids with lots of bouncy fun

Hours: Chol Hamoed hours not yet posted at time of print.

Price: $19.99 for 1 hour; $2.99 per parent

Bounce Safari

3 North Street, Waldwick, NJ 07463 201-857-4000

Play area with structure, slides and bounce castles

Beat the Bomb NYC

247 Water Street, Suite 106, Brooklyn, NY 11201

917-983-1115

Paint blast-themed escape room

Hours: Chol Hamoed hours: 11:00 p.m.–8:00 p.m. Reservations required.

Price: Prices start at $39.95 per person.

Bounce N Play

This kiddie bouncing park is ideal for kids under 6 years old, but there are some new fun activities for older children as well.

Hours: Chol Hamoed hours not yet posted at time of print.

Price: Admission is $17 per child during a non-holiday or non summer weekday, and $15 per child on holidays or weekends. (Each additional adult is $10 weekday, non-holiday and $15 on a school/or US holiday or weekend.)

Bounce! Trampoline Sports

Indoor trampoline area with foam pits and lots of jumping space

Hours: Chol Hamoed Hours: Sunday: Toddler Time: 10:00 a.m.–11:00 a.m.; Open Bounce: 11:00 a.m.–7:00 p.m. Monday to Thursday: 2:00 p.m.–7:00 p.m.

Hours: Availability based on booked events; call to reserve

Price: Open Bounce: $20 per child

Break Point Bowl & Entertainment

40 S. Route 9W, West Haverstraw, NY 10993

845-429-8000

Formerly

Price: 1–hour Open Bounce (ages 6 and up): $25; Junior Bounce (ages 5 and under): $18. Mandatory bounce socks are available for $3. Call to see if there are any special deals on those days.

Brooklyn Escape Room

Choice of adventures in this fully immersive Brooklyn escape room

Hours: Call or check online for hours and availability.

Price: Prices depend on the game.

Indoor Fun

Build-A-Bear Workshop - NYC

22 W 34th Street, New York, NY 10001

212-863-4070

Children can choose, stuff, name and clothe their own stuffed animals.

Hours: Sunday: 11:00 a.m.–7:00 p.m.; Monday to Friday: 10:00 a.m.–9:00 p.m.

Price: Price varies depending on the bear and accessories chosen.

Catch Air Indoor PlaygroundParamus

224 Route 4 East at Forest Avenue, Lower Level,

Kids

Hours: Sunday to Wednesday: 10 a.m.–7 p.m. Thursday and Friday: 10 a.m.–8 p.m.

Price: Children (3+): $24.99; Toddlers (2 and under): $14.99; Adults: $7.99

Chuck E. Cheese’s - Nanuet

250 W. Route 59, Nanuet, NY 10954 845-627-2788

Token-operated rides and arcade games

Hours: 12:00 p.m.–8:00 p.m

Price: Pay per time slot or arcades

Chuck E. Cheese’s - Brooklyn

139 Flatbush Avenue, Brooklyn, NY 11217

718-783-4570, 718-230-8245

Token-operated rides and arcade games

Hours: 11:00 a.m.–9:00 p.m.

Price: Pay per time slot or arcades

Catch Air Indoor Playground (Coney Island)

608 Sheepshead Bay Road, Brooklyn, NY 11224

347-919-8731

Kids indoor play with soft play toddler area, ball cannon, play structure, tiny town and interactive dance floor

Hours: 10:00 a.m.–8:00 p.m.

Price: Weekday price: Child (3+): $24.99; Toddler (2 & under): $14.99; Adult: $7.99. Weekends and holidays: Child (3+): $26.49; Toddler (2 & under): $16.49; Adult: $7.99

Catch Air Indoor Playground -

Kids indoor play with soft play toddler area, ball cannon, play structure, tiny town and interactive dance floor

Hours: Sunday to Wednesday: 10 a.m.–7 p.m. Thursday and Friday: 10 a.m.–8 p.m.

Price: Children (3+): $24.99; Toddlers (2 and under): $14.99; Adults: $7.99

Chuck E. Cheese’s - Paramus

275 Route 4, Paramus, NJ 07652 201-487-1088

Token-operated rides and arcade games

Hours: 11:00 a.m.–9:00 p.m.

Price: Pay per time slot or arcades

Cipher Seeker Escape Room 168

60-minute escape room challenges

Hours: Rooms are available by appointment 7 days a week, 10:00 a.m.–8:30 p.m. Players under 14 must have at least one adult over 18 present.

Price: $30 per person

Indoor Fun

Color Me Mine - Ridgewood

210 E. Ridgewood Avenue, Ridgewood, NJ 07450

201-445-4898

Paint-your-own-pottery studio

Hours: 11:00 a.m.–6:00 p.m.

Price: Pay per project, plus sitting fee that varies by day

Color Me Mine - NYC

Paint-your-own-pottery studio

Hours: Sunday, Tuesday, Wednesday: 11:00 a.m.–6:00 p.m.; Thursday & Friday: 11:00 a.m.–8:00 p.m.; Monday: closed

Price: Pay per project, plus $16 sitting fee

DUMBO Laser Tag - Also called Area53 NYC Laser Tag

53 Bridge Street, Brooklyn, NY 11201

347-305-7448

Indoor adventure park with ropes course, rock climbing, paintball, laser tag, mini bowling and more

Hours: Chol Hamoed hours: Thursday: 11:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m.; Sunday: 11:00 a.m.–7:45 p.m.

Price: Prices vary. Starts at $20.

Escape Room NJHackensack

157A Main Street, Hackensack, NJ 07601

201-815-1784

Sixty-minute escape adventure for teams of between 2 and 18 people

Hours: Call to make reservations.

Price: $100 for one-person private game. $125 for two-people private game. Price goes up with each additional person.

Color Me Mine - New City

169 S Main St, New City, NY 10956

845–358–5050

Paint-your-own-pottery studio

Hours: Sunday: 11:00 a.m.–6:00 p.m.; Monday to Saturday: 11:00 a.m.–8:00 p.m.

Price: Pay per project

Crayola Experience

Hands-on crayon activities, other activities and exhibits

Hours: Monday to Friday: 10:00 a.m.–4:00 p.m.; Sunday: 10:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m.

Price: Prices start at $30.99 online.

Escape Room NJ - Englewood

36 N Dean St, Englewood, NJ 07631

201-815-1784

Sixty-minute escape adventure for teams of between 2 and 18 people

Hours: By Reservation

Price: Price starts at $100 per person and goes down with each additional person. Group of 18 is $400.

Escape Room NJPompton Lakes 200 Wanaque Avenue, Pompton Lakes, NJ 07442

973-520-8360

Sixty-minute escape adventure for teams of between 2 and 18 people

Hours: 10:00 a.m.–11:30 p.m. Reservations required.

Price: $100 for one-person private game. $125 for two-people private game. Price goes up with each additional person.

Indoor Fun

Escape the Room NYC

24 W 25th Street, Floor 8, New York, NY 10010 347-954-9160

Boasting the largest variety of escape rooms by far, this very highly rated game room is lauded for its clever and creative puzzles.

Hours: Times vary by day. Reservations required.

Price: Prices start at $44 per person. Private groups are cheaper than per person.

Fairytale Island

7110 3rd Avenue, Brooklyn, NY 11209 718-395-0835

Indoor playground that gives kids the opportunity to climb, jump, ride and play pretend

Hours: Sunday to Thursday: 10:00 a.m.–7:00 p.m.; Friday: 10:00 a.m.–8:00 p.m.

Price: $22 per child. Includes one free adult. Additional adult: $5

Fit Kid Play & Party

Place

260 NY-32, Central Valley, NY 10917

845-827-5762

Indoor playground with a super fun climbing course

Schwarz

Massive toy store in NYC with demonstrations and small interactive activities

Hours: 10:00 a.m.–8:00 p.m.

Hours: 10:00 a.m.–6:00 p.m.

Price: 2-hour drop-in rate: 1 child admission with 1 adult: $25; each additional sibling: $20; each additional adult $5.

Fun Station USA

3555 Victory Boulevard, Staten Island, NY 10314

718-370-0077

Indoor fun, sports and adventure for kids with rides, laser tag, batting cages, bowling, bumper cars and virtual reality sky ride

Hours: Sunday: 11:00 a.m.–10:00 p.m.; Monday to Thursday: 10:00 a.m.–11:00 p.m.

Price: Pay per activity

Florham Park Roller Rink

192 Ridgedale Avenue, Florham Park, NJ 07932

973-377-0456

Expansive roller skating rink

Hours: Call for current hours.

Price: Admission whether skating or not: $10; $6 skate rental

Funtime Junction

400 Fairfield Road, Fairfield, NJ 07004

973-882-9777

Roomy adventure center with lots of things to climb and ride, plus arcade games

Hours: Closed Monday to Wednesday. Thursday & Friday: 12:00 p.m.–5:30 p.m.; Sunday: 10:00 a.m.–5:30 p.m.

Price: Child (10 months–15 years): $19.95. Includes 1 free companion adult. Additional adult (16+): $7.95

Indoor Fun

Flying Apple NY

912 Broadway, Brooklyn, NY 11206

646-758-7235

Indoor playground for boundless fun

Hours: Sunday: 11:00 a.m.–8:30 p.m.; Monday to Friday: 12:00 p.m.–8:00 p.m.

Price: Weekend, holidays and non-school days:

Child (4+): $29.99; School days: Child (4+): $21.99; Child (0–3): $15.99. 1 adult free per child. Additional adult $7.99

Hapik Yonkers

Rock climbing gym with themed walls climbing courses

Hours: Sunday: 10:00 a.m.–10:00 p.m.; Monday to Thursday: 2:00 p.m.–8:00 p.m. on school weeks, and 10:00 a.m.–9:00 p.m. on holidays & school vacations; Friday: 2:00 p.m.–10:00 p.m. on school weeks, and 10:00 a.m.– 9:00 p.m. on holidays & school vacations. Online reservation is strongly advised.

Price: 90 minutes: $29.90

Play

Hours: Sunday to Thursday: 12:00 p.m.–8:00 p.m.; Friday: 12:00 p.m.–2 hours before the zman

Price:

Glassworks Studio 151 South Street, Morristown, NJ 07960

973-656-0800

Glass-fusing studio where mosaics of all levels can be created

Hours: Chol Hamoed hours: Thursday: 12:00 p.m.–7:00 p.m.; Friday & Sunday: 11:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m. Online reservations strongly recommended.

Price: $5 studio fee. Pay per project. Prices start at $25.

Headway

at Play

A sensory gym and recreational center

Hours: Chol Hamoed hours: Thursday & Sunday: 11:00 a.m.–7:00 p.m.; Friday & Erev Yom Tov: 11:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m.

Price: $15 per hour

Hobby House

Plaster, ceramics and mosaics for all ages

Hours: Chol Hamoed hours: Thursday & Sunday: 11:00 a.m.–7:00 p.m.; Friday: 11:00 a.m.–4:00 p.m. Other times, by appointment only.

Price: Prices depend on piece you choose

Holidays and off days: $22.99; School days: $16.99 Hoopla! (Boro Park)

Play

12:00 p.m.–2 hours before the zman

Indoor Fun

iFly Indoor Skydiving (Paramus)

211 E. NJ-4, Paramus, NJ 07652

201-733-4359

Indoor skydiving with pressurized flight chamber for bodyflight

Hours: Chol Hamoed hours: Thursday & Friday: 9:00

a.m.–7:30 p.m.; Sunday: 10:00 a.m.–6:30 p.m.

Price: Prices online start at $79 for 2 flights.

Imagine That!!!

Children’s museum with endless pretend play and activities

iFly Indoor Skydiving (Yonkers)

849 Ridge Hill Boulevard, Yonkers, NY 10710

914-449-4359

Indoor skydiving with pressurized flight chamber for bodyflight

Hours: Chol Hamoed hours: Thursday & Friday: 10:00 a.m.–8:30 p.m.; Sunday: 10:00 a.m.–6:30 p.m.

Price: Prices online start at $62 for 2 flights.

It Adventure Ropes Course

The world’s largest indoor ropes course with liquid fireworks, water show, zip lines and amazing courses. By reservation only.

Hours: Monday to Thursday: 10:00 a.m.–7:00 p.m.; Friday: 10:00 a.m.–9:00 p.m.; Sunday: 11:00 a.m.–6:00 p.m. Hours are subject to change due to private events. Call ahead to confirm open times.

Hours: Tuesday to Friday: 9:00 a.m.–3:00 p.m.; Sunday: 10:00 p.m.–5:30 p.m. Monday: Closed

Price: Child (12 months–10 years old): $21.99; Adult (11+): $6.99

Jersey Lanes

30 Park Avenue, Linden, NJ 07036

908-486-6300

A bowling alley featuring 42 lanes

Hours: Call for open bowl times.

Price: Price varies by the time. Price starts at $9 per person per hour.

Jumpin Jax

Hours: Open Play: Sunday: 10:00 a.m.–1:00 p.m.; Monday to Friday:

Price: One-hour option not available on Sundays. Adults and children 48” and up: 1-hour regular climb and zip: online $28. 2 hours: $42. Climb-It Walls: $12; Little-It for children under 48”: $12.

Jill’s Ceramics

180 Germonds Road, West Nyack, NY 10994

845-623-4975

Huge variety of plaster pieces or glazed ceramics. Option for take-home projects.

Hours: Monday to Wednesday: 9:30 a.m.–3:30 p.m.; Tuesday and Thursday evening: 7:00–9:30 p.m.; Friday: 3:00 p.m.–5:00 p.m. For Sunday hours, call to inquire.

Price: Prices vary based on ceramic you choose.

Jumpz Trampoline Sports

21 Prindle Lane, Danbury, CT 06811

203-942-2449

Part of Thrillz Danbury, Jumpz offers 45,000 square feet of glow-in-the-dark wall-to-wall trampoline adventures, airbag zone, swings and slides with a dedicated toddler area.

Hours: Chol Hamoed hours: Thursday & Friday: 12:00 p.m.–8:00 p.m.; Sunday: 10:00 a.m.–8:00 p.m.

Price: Prices start at $17 for 30 minutes.

Your next family adventure awaits within our endless library of exciting titles. Get your popcorn and playlists ready and let the thrills begin!

600+ hours of kosher video

Indoor Fun

Just Kidding Playground

1267 Forest Avenue, Staten Island, NY 10302

718-524-7739

Indoor playground with cutting-edge play equipment and opportunity for fun

Hours: 10:00 a.m.–7:00 p.m.

Price: 2-hour play: $25 per child; includes 1 adult

K1 Speed (Formerly Grand Prix

New York Racing)

333 N Bedford Road, Mt Kisco, NY 10549

914-241-3131

High speed karting.

Hours: Sunday: 10:00 a.m.–10:00 p.m.; Monday to Thursday: 12:00 p.m.–10:00 p.m.; Friday: 12:00 p.m.–12:00 a.m.

Price: Prices start at $28.95 for 1 race. Yearly license for $7.95 required.

Kids ‘N Action

1149 McDonald Avenue, Brooklyn, NY 11230

718-377-1818

This popular and fun indoor amusement center, with its twisty slides and ball pits, is a much loved attraction in the heart of Brooklyn.

Hours: Sunday-Thursday - 11:00 a.m. till 6:00 p.m.

Price: Toddler section (softplay): $13 weekdays; $15 weekends and holidays. Action Package (softplay and rides) : $26 weekdays; $28 weekends and holidays. Adults: $8.

Kids Empire Paramus

305 NJ-17, Paramus, NJ 07652 201-479-4282

Indoor playground with supersized climbing and sliding fun

Just Kidding Playground

2965 Veterans Road W, Staten Island, NY 10309

718-967-8000

Indoor playground with cutting-edge play equipment and opportunity for fun

Hours: 10:00 a.m.–7:00 p.m.

Price: 2-hour play $29.99 per child; includes 1 adult

Kanga’s Playcenter

32-15 37th Avenue, Long Island City, NY 11101

718-606-2216

Indoor playground with tons of climbing, sliding and jumping fun

Hours: Sunday: 10:00 a.m.–8:00 p.m.; Monday to Friday: 2:00 p.m.–8:00 p.m.

Price: General entry: $19.99. One adult free with every paid child. Additional adult: $10. Infant (0–1): Free. Parking: $6

Kids Empire Linden

860 W Edgar Road, Linden, NJ 07036

908-257-0530

Indoor playground with supersized climbing and sliding fun

Hours: Monday to Thursday: 10:00 a.m.–8:00 p.m.; Friday to Sunday: 10:00 a.m.–10:00 p.m.

Price: All-day access with re-entry. Adult (18+): 2 free entries per child, $5 per additional adult; Child (1–17): $22.90; Infant (0–11 months): Free

Kids Fun House

Hours: Monday to Thursday: 10:00 a.m.–8:00 p.m.; Friday to Sunday: 10:00 a.m.–10:00 p.m.

Price: All-day access with re-entry. Adult (18+): 2 free entries per child, $5 per additional adult; Child (1–17): $22.90; Infant (0–11 months): Free. Non-grip socks are mandatory for everyone. Kids Empire socks for adults and kids are available for $3 at the front desk.

6273 Fresh Pond Road, Ridgewood, NY 11385

718-418-5437

This indoor fun park with its triple slide, maze obstacle course and more, is specifically geared for children ages 1 to12.

Hours: Chol Hamoed hours not yet listed at time of print.

Price: 2-hour sessions: Tuesday to Friday: $16 per child (1 adult free); each additional adult: $10 (includes 120 game credits). Sunday & holidays: $20 per child (1 adult free); each additional adult: $10 (includes 120 game credits)

Indoor Fun

Kids Palace

902 60th Street, Brooklyn, NY 11219

929-759-5869

Indoor play center featuring slides, an obstacle course, a ball pit and more

Hours: 10:00 a.m.–8:00 p.m.

Price: Weekday 2-hour pass: $20; 2-hour pass Friday to Sunday: $25; Toddler under 2 all week: $13; additional adult pass: $5; all-day pass: $40; special child 1-hour pass all week: $15

Kids Point 772 50th Street, Brooklyn, NY 11220 347-422-0239

Indoor play center offering arcade games, slides, ball pits and more

Hours: 10:00 a.m.–8:30 p.m.

Price: 2-hour pass: $25; All-day pass: $38; Additional adult: $5; Under 2: $13; Under 1: Free.

Land-O-Fun

2955 Coney Island Avenue, Brooklyn, NY 11235

718-891-5263

Fun indoor park for kids aged 2–12, with bumper cars, cannon balls, bowling lanes and even some virtual reality experiences. Other attractions as well.

Hours: Open every day 10:00 a.m.–8:00 p.m.

Price: Monday to Friday: $10 per child and two adults. Sundays/holidays/school breaks: $15 per child and two adults. Each additional adult: $5.

Launch Family Entertainment

531 86th Street, Floor Suite, Brooklyn, NY 11209

718-407-6399

Trampoline park with endless bouncing fun

Hours: Call for open jump hours.

Price: Prices start at $39.99 for a 1-hour action pass.

Kids Play World

63–08 69th Place, Middle Village, NY 11379

718-821-1638

Indoor play center offering tons of fun and imagination play

Hours: Call for price and hours for open play.

KM Dreamland

7611 13th Avenue, Brooklyn, NY 11228 917-573-6666

Spacious play area with a plethora of fun obstacles and rides.

Hours: Call for open play schedule.

Price: 2-hour pass: Child under 2 + Adult: $13; Child over 2 + Adult: $25. All-day pass: Child under 2 + Adult: $22; Child over 2 + Adult: $34. Additional adult: $5

Laser Bounce Family Fun Center

80-28 Cooper Avenue, Glendale, NY 11385

347-599-1919

A super-fun indoor park with a laser maze, laser tag games, bowling, ball pits, VR games and more!

Hours: Chol Hamoed hours: Thursday: 12:00 p.m.–9:00 p.m.; Friday & Sunday: 11:00 a.m.–9:00 p.m.

Price: Attraction packages start at $25.95 per person.

Legoland Discovery Center

39 Fitzgerald Street, Yonkers, NY 10710

914-775-6015

Lego-themed activities. Suitable for preschool and younger elementary children.

Hours: Chol Hamoed hours: Thursday & Friday: 11:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m.; Sunday: 10:00 a.m.–7:00 p.m.

Price: Online: Tickets start at $24.99 per person when purchased in advance.

Indoor Fun

Liberty Heights

1939 NY-52, Liberty, NY 12754

845-747-8080

Indoor adventure park with trampolines, climbing walls, laser tag, VR and a Ninja Zone. Suitable for all ages.

Hours: Chol Hamoed hours: Thursday: 11:00

a.m.–8:00 p.m.; Friday 11:00 a.m.–4:00 p.m.; Sunday: 1:00 p.m.–5:00 p.m.

Price: Prices start at $27.99 for 2 hours.

Max Funland

3901 8th Avenue, Brooklyn, NY 11232

646-423-9863

Trampoline and arcades for hours of playtime

Hours: Sunday: 10:30 a.m.–10:00 p.m.; Monday to Friday: 11:30 a.m.–9:30 p.m.

Price: 1.5-hour pass: Weekday: $24.99; Weekend/ Holiday: $27.99. 2.5-hour pass: Weekday: $27.99; Weekend/Holiday: $32.99

MetroRock Brooklyn

321 Starr Street, Brooklyn, NY 11237

929-500-7625

Bright, clean and fun indoor climbing experience for all ages. Children under age 5 not allowed; visitors are required to fill out waiver online prior to visiting.

Hours: Sunday: 9:00 a.m.–10:00 p.m.; Monday to Friday: 8:00 a.m.–10:00 p.m.

Price: Day Pass: $30; $240 for a 10 punch pass

Lanes

Bowling alley

Hours: Hours vary. Call before to check if there is open bowl.

Price: Monday to Friday, until 5:00 p.m.: $5 per game; $3 for seniors. After 5:00 p.m. and weekends: $6 per game. Shoes: $6. Cash only.

Linden Lanes

741 N Stiles Street, Linden, NJ 07036

908-925-3550

A friendly and affordable bowling center

Hours: Call for open bowl times.

Price: Prices vary. Check online for bowling specials.

Melody Lanes

461 37th Street, Brooklyn, NY 11232

718-832-2695

Bowling alley with arcades for added fun

Hours: Call for open bowl times.

Price: Prices vary and are per half-hour or hour, per lane. Prices start at $40 per half-hour.

Monster Mini Golf

49 E. Midland Avenue, Paramus, NJ 07652 201-261-0032

Indoor glow-in-the-dark golf course. Additional locations in Fairfield, Edison and Yonkers.

Hours: Monday to Friday: 2:00–9:00 p.m.; Sunday: 12:00–8:00 p.m.

Price: Mini Golf: Adults: $14; Children: $13; Seniors: $11. Mini Bowling: $5.00. 1 round of Mini Golf and a $10 Arcade Card: $20. 1 round of Mini Golf, 1 game of Mini Bowling, and a $10 Arcade Card: $23.

New City Bowl and Batting Cages

Bowling alley and batting cages

Hours: Hours vary. Call before to check if there is open bowl.

Price: Monday to Friday, before 6:00 p.m.: $6.25 per game for seniors; $7.25 for juniors; $7.75 for adults. Monday to Friday, after 6:00 p.m.: $7.75 per game. Sunday: $7.75 per game. Shoe rental: $6.25 per pair. All bowlers must wear bowling shoes.

Indoor Fun

Plaster Spot

1037 53rd Street, Brooklyn NY 11219

718-436-1899

Charming local plaster painting shop

Hours: Call for hours and pricing.

Country Lanes

This family-friendly venue has a 48-lane bowling alley, plus an exciting laser maze

Hours: Hours vary. Call to check if there is open bowl.

Price: Weekdays: Until 6:00 p.m.: $32 per hour; after 6:00 p.m.: $40 per hour. Friday to Sunday: Until 6:00 p.m.: $42 per hour; after 6:00 p.m.: $47 per hour. Shoe rental: $6 per pair.

RPM Raceway (Farmingdale)

40 Daniel Street, Farmingdale, NY 11735

631-752-7223

Races need to be booked, but there are other attractions for the rest of the family

Hours: Sunday: 10:00 a.m.–10:00 p.m.; Monday to Thursday: 12:00 p.m.–10:00 p.m.; Friday: 12:00 p.m.–11:00 p.m.

Price: $30 per race. Members: $23 per race.

Seaglass Carousel at Battery Park

Water Street & State Street, New York, NY 1000 212-344-3491

Located in The Battery (Formerly Battery Park). Carousel made of fiberglass fish inside building at The Battery.

Hours: 11:00 a.m.–9:00 p.m.

Price: $6 per ride; $50 for 10 tickets

Pottery and Glass Land

1730 Coney Island Avenue, Brooklyn, NY 11230

917-744-1887

Pottery, glass and canvas painting, bling art; book your pottery wheel appointment in advance.

Hours: Call for hours.

Price: Prices vary.

Rainbow Playspace

Indoor playground with slides, trampolines and a ball pit

Hours: Monday to Thursday: 10:00 a.m.–7:00 p.m.; Friday to Sunday: 10:00 a.m.–8:00 p.m. Hours may vary due to private events; call before to confirm hours.

Price: 2-hour playtime: $25; Unlimited playtime: $38. One free adult per child; additional adult: $5

Races need to be booked, but there are other attractions for the rest of the family

Hours: Hours vary. Call for days and hours of operation.

Price: $30 per race. Members: $23 per race Sky Zone Trampoline ParkAllendale

Indoor trampoline park featuring freestyle bouncing, dodgeball and so much more. Reservations required. Waiver must be signed before visiting.

Hours: Chol Hamoed hours: Thursday: 12:00 p.m.–6:30 p.m.; Friday: 11:00 a.m.–6:30 p.m.; Sunday: 9:00 a.m.–7:30 p.m.

Price: 90 minutes: $28.99 + mandatory socks

620

Thursday: 12:00-6:00 8:00-10:00 Friday: 12:00-3:00 Motzei Shabbos: 10:00-11:30 Sunday: 12:00-6:00

Indoor Fun

Sky Zone Trampoline ParkSpringfield

25 US-22, Springfield Township, NJ 07081

973-671-5100

Indoor trampoline park featuring freestyle bouncing, dodgeball and so much more. Reservations required. Waiver must be signed before visiting.

Hours: Chol Hamoed hours: Thursday: 12:00 p.m.–7:30 p.m.; Friday: 11:30 a.m.–6:30 p.m.; Sunday: 9:00 a.m.–7:30 p.m.

Price: 90 minutes: $31.99 + mandatory socks

Sloomoo Institute

475 Broadway, New York, NY 10013

Activities and projects involving slime

Hours: Hours vary. Timed tickets are sold online.

Price: Tickets are required for each guest 2+. An adult must accompany all children under 14. General admission starts at $38.99 per person.

Sportime USA

2 Lawrence Street, Ardsley, NY 10502

914-592-2111

Indoor amusement center with rides, arcade games, batting cages and indoor playground

Hours: Hours vary. Call or check online.

Price: Pay per attraction.

Sweetspot Playhouse

333 Avenue X, Brooklyn, NY 11223 718-483-8653

Indoor Playground

Hours: Weekday open play hours: 10:00 a.m.–5:30 p.m. guaranteed. Weekend open play hours: 1:00 p.m.–4:30 p.m. guaranteed. If there are no private parties booked, open play hours may be longer.

Price: $23 per child

SkyZone Trampoline ParkSpring Valley

34 Spring Valley Market Place, Spring Valley, NY

845-205-0081

Indoor trampoline park featuring freestyle bouncing, dodgeball and so much more. Reservations required. Waiver must be signed before visiting.

Hours: Chol Hamoed hours: Thursday: 10:00 a.m.–6:30 p.m.; Friday: 10:00 a.m.–8:30 p.m.; Sunday: 10:00 a.m.–6:30 p.m.

Price: 90 minutes: $31.99 + mandatory socks

Space House 641 62nd

Indoor jumping fun and arcade center

Hours: Sunday: 10:00 a.m.–10:00 p.m.; Monday to Thursday: 11:00 a.m.–10:00 p.m.

Price: Weekday price starts at $20 for 1.5 hours. Weekend price starts at $22.40 for 1.5 hours

Supercharged

987 U.S. Rte 1, Edison, NJ 08817

908-624-8242

The world’s largest indoor muti-level karting track

Hours: Sunday: 9:00 a.m.–11:00 p.m.; Monday to Thursday: 11:00 a.m.–12:00 a.m.; Friday: 11:00 a.m.–1:00 a.m.

Price: $29 for one race

Ops

Tactical laser tag. Unless you book a private session, there may be other players during your session. Appropriate for teens and adults.

Hours: Reservations required.

Price: Prices start at $40 per person for a 75-minute game; reservation required. Private games start at $350 for up to 10 players with an additional charge of $30 per extra person.

Indoor Fun

Time In Art Studio

1621 US-202, Pomona, NY 10970

845-767-5252

Art studio with painting, slime making, beading, sand art and more

Hours: Call for hours and pricing.

The Gravity Vault (Hoboken)

1423 Clinton St, Hoboken, NJ 07030 201-740-1423

25,000+ square-foot indoor rock gym with overhangs, bouldering, arches and hours of climbing fun

Hours: Sunday: 9:00 a.m.–9:00 p.m.; Monday to Friday: 9:00 a.m.–10:00 p.m.

Price: Many package options. Prices start at $30 per person.

The Other Tales - Escape Rooms

245 Diamond Bridge Avenue, Hawthorne, NJ 07506

973-963-4142

At this escape room destination, all games are private.

Hours: By reservation only. Hours vary by day.

Price: $39.95 per player; for team of 4, online special of $35.96 per person

Thrillz High Flying Adventure Park

5 Prindle Lane, Danbury, CT 06811

203-942-2585

Part of Danbury Jumpz, this world’s first indoor wipeoutstyle action adventure park features 28,000 square feet of zip lines, ninja, obstacle and ropes courses, trampoline launch pads, rock climbing walls, and many more attractions.

The Funplex

182 NJ-10, East Hanover, NJ 07936 973-428-1166

Indoor family amusement center with go-karts, bumper cars, laser tag, arcades and more. Additional location: Mount Laurel, NJ.

Hours: Chol Hamoed hours: Thursday & Friday: 4:00 p.m.–9:00 p.m.; Sunday: 10:00 a.m.–9:00 p.m.

Price: Pay per activity or purchase wristband starting at $29 during the week, $45 on weekends.

The Gravity Vault (Upper Saddle River)

107 Pleasant Avenue, Upper Saddle River, NJ 07458 201-934-7625

13,500+ square-foot indoor rock gym with overhangs, bouldering, arches and hours of climbing fun

Hours: Sunday: 9:00 a.m.–8:00 p.m.; Monday to Friday: 9:00 a.m.–10:00 p.m.

Price: Many package options. Prices start at $25 per person.

The Painted Pot Park Slope

188 5th Avenue, Brooklyn, NY 11217

718-768-8379

Studio for paintings and mosaics.

Hours: 90-minute session; reservations are required.

Price: $10 studio fee plus price of the item you choose to make.

Hours: Chol Hamoed hours: Thursday & Friday: 12:00 p.m.–8:00 p.m.; Sunday: 10:00 a.m.–8:00 p.m.

Price: Prices start at $22 for a 60-minutes session.

Twinkle Playspace

144 Frost Street, Brooklyn, NY 11211

718-349-1300

Children’s Amusement Center

Hours: Online advance reservations required.

Price: 2-hour pass: Child (0–6): $23; Adult: $15. Every adult and child require a purchased ticket to enter the playspace.

Indoor Fun

Urban Air Trampoline and Adventure Park (Avenel, NJ)

1600 St. Georges Avenue, Avenel, NJ 07001

732-640-8847

Exciting trampoline park also featuring bumper cars and rock climbing

Hours: Sunday: 10:00 a.m.–9:00 p.m.; Monday to Thursday: 3:00 p.m.–9:00 p.m.; Friday: 2:00 p.m.–10:00 p.m.

Price: Prices start at $27.99

Wild Child Play Space

638 Sharrotts Road, Staten Island, NY 10309

929-614-6088

Indoor play space

Hours: Call for open play hours.

Price: Open play: $20. Advance purchase recommended.

Wonderland Playhouse

3830 Nostrand Avenue, Brooklyn, NY 11235

718-889-1777

Indoor Playground

Hours: Open play: Sunday: 10:00 a.m.–3:30 p.m.; Monday to Friday: 10:00 a.m.–7:00 p.m.

Price: $25 per child for 2 hours

Xtreme Energy

557 NJ-17, Paramus, NJ 07652 201-689-3166

Indoor play center featuring trampolines, ziplines, ropes course and rock climbing

Hours: Sunday: 10:00 a.m.–8:00 p.m.; Tuesday to Friday: 1:00 p.m.–6:00 p.m.

Price: $29 for 2 hours; includes one free adult. Additional adult: $9. Baby (0–2): Free

Urban Air Adventure Park (Hackensack, NJ)

69 Wesley St, South Hackensack, NJ 07606

201-212-6454

Trampoline park with climbing walls, obstacle courses, tubes playground, battle beams and amazing adventures

Hours: Chol Hamoed Hours: Tuesday 10:00 a.m.–10:00 p.m.

Price: Ultimate Attractions Pass: $33.99; Deluxe Pass: $28.99; Basic Pass: $25.99; 5 & under Pass (Deluxe access for children 5 and under): $16.99. Single play on Virtual Reality: $7.99. Urban Air socks (required; no personal socks allowed): $3.49. Parent Pass (same attractions as child): 50% pass price.

INDOOR FUN

Outdoor Fun

Adventureland

2245 Broadhollow Road, Farmingdale, NY 11735

631-694-6868

Amusement park with about 30 rides

Hours: Chol hamoed hours: Thursday & Sunday: Opens at 11:00 a.m. Closed Friday.

Price: General (2–24): $49.50; Adult (25+): $39.50

Boundless Adventures

735 Anderson Hill Road, Purchase, NY 10577 914-893-4550

Ropes course for kids and adults, with courses including ziplines, climbing and walking bridges

Hours: Chol Hamoed hours: Thursday & Friday: 12:00 p.m.–8:00 p.m.;

Sunday: 9:00 a.m.–8:00 p.m.

Price: “Weekends & holidays advance purchase: 3-hour tickets:

$69; Off-peak 2-hour tickets: $57; 2-hour Junior Explorer tickets: $39.

Same-day reservation: 3-hour tickets: $75; Off-peak 2-hour tickets:

$63; 2-hour Junior Explorer tickets: $44.”

City Island Stable

9 Shore Road, Bronx, NY 10464 718-885-0551

Pony rides, horseback riding and riding lessons offered

Adventure Land-NY (Formerly Ring Homestead)

257 Lybolt Road, Middletown, NY 10940

845-361-3842

Treetop ropes course, paintball and downhill tubing

Hours: Chol Hamoed Hours: 11:45 a.m. to dusk

Price: $64 per person for ages 5 and up; $44 per child ages 3 and 4; free for children 2 or younger

Braden Brook Stables

19 Mountaindale Road, Greensfield Park, NY 12435

845-647-7556

1-hour trail rides at $60 per person; at this time of year it’s for ages 10 and up.

Hours: Call for hours and prices.

Hours: 9:00 a.m.–dusk

Price: Pony rides: $10; Horse rides (2 laps): $15; Trail rides: $70. Private Trail Rides $85 per person

Deno’s Wonder Wheel

3059 West 12th Street, Brooklyn, NY 11224

718-372-2592

An epic amusement park near Coney Island Boardwalk

Hours: Chol Hamoed hours: Sunday: Opens at 11:00 a.m.

Price: Pay per ride.

Camelback Mountain Adventures

243 Resort Drive, Tannersville, PA 18372

570-629-1663

An adventure destination boasting a mountain coaster, ziplines, treetop adventures and more

Hours: Monday to Thursday: 2:00 p.m.–7:00 p.m.; Friday: 2:00 p.m.–10:00 p.m.; Sunday: 11:00 a.m.–6:00 p.m.

Price: Price varies by activity.

Diggerland

100 Pinedge Drive, West Berlin, NJ 08091

856-393-5992

Tractor-themed rides, stunts and digging fun for all ages

Hours: Chol Hamoed hours: Thursday: 12:00 p.m.–6:00 p.m.; Friday: 11:00 a.m.–4:00 p.m.; Sunday: 11:00 a.m.–6:00 p.m.

Price: Online: $45.99

NEW FILM COMING THIS CHOL HAMOED

Betrayal has no borders. Truth has no price. And one young woman will risk everything— to choose between loyalty, justice, and survival.

For women & girls only

Endorsed by noted Mechanchos

Admission: Evenings $40, Afternoon $35

Due to popular request

LATE NIGHT SHOWING IN BORO PARK & MONSEY, THURSDAY AT 11 PM.

Outdoor Fun

Dorney Park

3830 Dorney Park Road, Allentown, PA 18104

610-395-3724

Large amusement park in Pennsylvania; located adjacent to a water park

Hours: Chol Hamoed hours: Sunday: 11:00 a.m.–11:00 p.m.

Price: Price starts at $49

Echo Lake Stable

55 Blakely Lane, Newfoundland, NJ 07435

Stables offering horseback riding lessons, trail rides and hay rides

Hours: Sunday, Monday, Tuesday, Friday: 9:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m. The last trail leaves at 3:00 p.m. Closed Wednesdays and Thursdays.

Price: Trail rides: $70 per hour; $50 per 1/2 hour. Night rides: $100 per person. Lessons: $80/40 minutes. Hayrides: $75/15 minutes. Pony Rides: $25/15 minutes.

Family Fun Farm

65 Friedman Road, Monticello, NY 12701 347–480–FARM (3276)

Thrilling adventure farm for all ages offering petting zoo, bumper boats, laser tag, wagon rides, zip line, ball blaster, pony rides, parakeets, jumping pillow, and many more fun attractions. Recently added state of the art electric go karts, zoom tubing and VR. VR and diggers are indoor.

Hours: Chol Hamoed hours: Thursday & Sunday: 12:00 p.m.–6:00 p.m.; Friday: 12:00 p.m.–4:00 p.m

Price: Prices start at $22 per person.

FLG X Adventure Course

59 Mt. Arlington Rd., Ledgewood, NJ 07852

888–241–4582

Amazing treetop ropes course with 5 levels. Also seperate zip line course with more than 30 zip lines. Height requirements need to be met.

Hours: Chol Hamoed hours: Sunday: 10:00 p.m.–1:00 p.m. Reservations recommended.

Price: Child (9–11): $39; Adult (12+): $57

Dutch Wonderland

2249 Lincoln Hwy E, Lancaster, PA 17602

866-386-2839

Amusement park with 44 acres of roller coasters, water slides, kids shows and a castle

Hours: Chol Hamoed hours: Sunday: 12:00 p.m.–8:00 p.m.

Price: $75.99

Extreme Motorsports Kiamesha

ATV tours on over 100 acres of thrilling mountain trails for individuals (ages 15 and up) and families (from ages 4 and up)

Hours: By reservation only

Price: Call for pricing

Fantasy Island Amusement Park

750 N Bay Avenue, Beach Haven, NJ 08008

609-492-4000

Amusement park offering carnival-style rides, a carousel, arcades and games

Hours: Chol Hamoed hours: Sunday: 2:00 p.m.–7:00 p.m.

Price: Pay per ride.

Hersheypark

100 Hersheypark Drive, Hershey, PA 17033

717-534-3900

Hershey’s chocolate-themed park with rides, kids activities, dining and live shows.

Hours: Chol Hamoed hours: Sunday: 12:00 p.m.–9:00 p.m.

Price: $89.95

Outdoor Fun

Hunter Mountain Chairlift

64 Klein Avenue, Hunter, NY 12442

518-263-4223

A scenic chairlift up Hunter Mountain

Hours: Chol Hamoed hours: Sunday: 10:00 a.m.–4:00 p.m. Last time offloading on the top: 3:30 p.m.

Price: Child (3–12): $16; Adult (13–64): $20; Senior (65+): $16. Children must be at least 3 years old and meet height requirements of at least 36”. One adult is required per two children aged 3–6.

Jiminy Peak

37 Corey Road, Hancock, MA 01237 413-738-5500

Adventure park with mountain coaster, alpine slide, Soaring Eagle, scenic chairlift, giant swing and children’s activities. Note: Only the mountain coaster is open on Chol Hamoed.

Jamaica Bay Riding Academy

7000 Shore Parkway, Brooklyn, NY 11234 (right off Belt Parkway)

718-531-8949

Ages 12 and up. No reservations necessary.

Hours: Group trail rides (Minimum 2 people, no reservations.) Sunday/holidays: 9:00 a.m.–4:00 p.m. By appointment only. Monday/Wednesday/Friday: 10:00 a.m.–4:00p.m. Tuesday/Thursday: 10:00 a.m.–8:00 p.m.

Price: $90.00 per person 12 years and older; minimum two people. $120 evening rides prepaid by appointment only. $25 pony rides (10 years and under).

Hours: Chol Hamoed hours: Sunday: 10:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m.

Price: Weekend, holidays and non-school days: Child (4+): $29.99. School days: Child (4+): $21.99; Child (0–3): $15.99. 1 adult free per child; additional adult: $7.99.

Legoland

1 Legoland Boulevard, Goshen, NY 10924

845-410-0290

Sprawling theme park with Lego structures and amusement rides

Keansburg Amusement Park

275 Beachway Avenue, Keansburg, NJ 07734

914-391-4390

Keansburg Amusement Park offers over 40 rides including kiddie, family and thrill rides with access to the ocean in the back of the park.

Hours: Chol Hamoed hours: Thursday: 2:45 p.m.–8:00 p.m.

Price: Pirchei Special: $22 per person using the rides

Hours: Chol Hamoed hours: Friday: 12:00 p.m.–6:00 p.m.; Sunday: 10:00 a.m.–6:00 p.m.

Price: Online prices start at $59.

NJ ATV Rentals

230 Pension Road, Englishtown, NJ 07726

732-608-6535

ATV rental that welcomes groups

Hours: Chol Hamoed hours: Sunday: 11:00 a.m.–3:30 p.m. Online reservation required.

Price: 1-hour ATV experience that includes ATV, tour, entry fee, gas, and gear: $120/per person; $110/per person with groups of 6 or more; $25 passenger fee (for kids 5–10).

Luna Park

1000 Surf Avenue, Brooklyn, NY 11224

718-373-5862

Park with 30 rides and lots of games at Coney Island Beach

Hours: Chol Hamoed hours: Thursday & Friday: 12:00 p.m.–8:00 p.m.; Sunday: 11:00 a.m.–8:00 p.m.

Price: Pay per ride. All-day wristbands: $79.99 online or $99.99 on site. Payne’s

Motor Sports

845-583-1000

ATV rentals for use in their facility

Hours: By reservation only.

732.479.7080

Outdoor Fun

Pocono Outdoor Adventure Tours

1234 Long Pond Road, Long Pond, PA 18334

570-839-6061

One-hour guided UTV tours on over 1,000 acres of the historic Pocono Manor, along streams and mountaintops with gorgeous views

Hours: By reservation only. Must arrive 45 minutes prior to tour time.

Rail Explorers

70 High Street, Phoenicia, NY 12464

877-833-8588

Ride the railroad on these pedal-powered Rail Explorers cars.

Hours: Check online for availability and pricing. Tickets sell out quickly.

Six Flags Great Adventures and Safari

1 Six Flags Boulevard, Jackson, NJ 08527

201-862-0250 (NCSY), 732-928-2000

Huge park with 14 coasters and 52 other attractions; OffRoad Adventure Safari entrance included in admission (NCSY event)

Pocono TreeVentures

1575 Fairway Villas Blvd., East Stroudsburg PA 18302

800-446-0231

Aerial forest adventure with five ropes courses and dual zip racers. Also kids section.

Hours: Chol Hamoed Hours: Sunday 10:00 & 12:00 slot. Closed Monday and Tuesday. Reserve online.

Price: $55 per person

Hours: Chol Hamoed hours: Sunday: 10:30 a.m.–12:00 a.m.

Price: NCSY event advance tickets: Amusement park: $55; Drive-thru Safari: $25; Parking: $20. After 10/6: Amusement park: $60; Safari: $25; Parking: $30

Storybook Land

6415 Black Horse Pike, Egg Harbor Township, NJ 08234

609-646-0103

Storybook-themed amusement park for younger children

Safari MiniGolf

9 Cherry Lane, West Orange, NJ 07052

973-731-5800

Outdoor safari-themed mini golf located near Turtle Back Zoo

Hours: Weekends: 10:00 a.m.–7:00 p.m.

Price: Adult: $14; Child: $12; Senior: $12

Hours: Chol Hamoed hours: Friday: 10:00 a.m.–3:00 p.m.; Sunday: 11:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m.

Price: Online: $38.99. At the gate: $41.99

Staten Island FunPark

215 Schmidts Lane, Staten Island, NY 10314

718-982-5576

Go-karts, mini golf, batting cages

Hours: Chol Hamoed hours: Thursday: 12:00 a.m.–7:00 p.m.; Go-Karts open at 1:00 p.m. Friday: 11:00 a.m.–7:00 p.m.; Go-Karts open at 12:00 p.m. Sunday: 11:00 a.m.–9:00 p.m.; Go-Karts open at 12:00 p.m.

Price: Pay per activity.

Tappan Go-Karts and Mini Golf

116

Go-kart track, batting cages, mini-golf and driving range

Hours: Go karts: Tuesday to Sunday: 12:00 p.m.–7:00 p.m.

Closed Mondays.; Batting cages: Every day from 8:00 a.m.–9:00 p.m; Mini golf: 9:00 a.m.–9:00 p.m.

Price: Mini golf: Adults (over 10 years): $9; Children (10 and under): $8. Go-karts (four laps): Single car: $10; Double car: $15. Coupon book is good for six races. A single gokart coupon book costs $54; double costs $84. Batting cages: $3 for 15 pitches.

Outdoor Fun

The Adventure Park at the Discovery Museum

4450 Park Avenue, Bridgeport, CT 06604

203-690-1717

Aerial forest park offering rope courses and ziplines

Hours: Chol Hamoed hours: Friday: 3:00 p.m.–8:00 p.m.; Sunday: 10:00 a.m.–6:00 p.m.

Price: General admission: Adult (14+): $69; Child (7–14): $64; Child (5–6): $45. $5 discount if tickets are purchased online.

Tiki Action Park

1878 Middle Country Road, Centereach, NY 11720

631-471-1267

A fun destination offering Go-Karts, mini gold, arcades and virtual reality games

Hours: Chol Hamoed hours: Friday: 4:00 p.m.–11:00 p.m.; Sunday: 11:00 a.m.–10:00 p.m.

Price: Pay per activity; prices vary.

The Castle Fun Center

109 Brookside Avenue, Chester, NY 10918

845-469-2116

Adventure center with go-karts, arcade, rock climbing and more

Hours: Chol Hamoed Hours: Sunday: 11:00 a.m.–8:00 p.m.

Price: Pay per attraction.

Wild West City

50 Lackawanna Drive, Stanhope, NJ 07874

973-347-8900

Old West theme park featuring pony rides, a petting zoo, train, stagecoach rides and mini-golf

Hours: Chol Hamoed hours: Sunday: 10:30 a.m.–4:00 p.m.

Price: Adult (15+): $37; Child (3–14): $32; Senior (62+): $32; Under age 2: free

The Adventure Park at Long Island

75 Colonial Springs Road, Wheatley Heights, NY 11798

631-983-3844

Aerial forest park offering rope courses and ziplines

Hours: Chol Hamoed hours: Sunday: 10:00 a.m.–6:00 p.m.

Price: General admission: Adult (14+): $79; Child (7–14): $69; Child (5–6): $15. $10 discount if tickets are purchased online.

Treetop Adventure Course

560 Northfield Avenue, West Orange, NJ 07052

973-731-5800, Ext. 0

Outdoor ropes course near Turtle Back Zoo

Hours: Chol Hamoed hours: Sunday: 10:00 a.m.–4:00 p.m. Timed entry ticket required.

Price: Adult course: $30; Junior course: $20; Zipline: $15. Adult course + zipline: $35; Junior course + zipline: $27

OUTDOOR FUN

Historical and Museums

9/11 Memorial

180

212-312-8800

8-acre park in memoriam of 9/11 heroes with guided tours available

Hours: 8:00 a.m.–8:00 p.m.

Price: Free

Battleship New Jersey

Battleship that served in WWII, Korean, Vietnam and Gulf Wars that gives a glimpse into military life

Hours: The Battleship New Jersey is open for self–guided tours every day, from 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., with last boarding at 4:00 p.m. and a limited number of guided tours at 12 p.m.

Price: Adults: $30; Seniors and children 12 and under: $25

Color Factory

Colorful and interactive modern art exhibit

9/11 Memorial Museum

180 Greenwich Street, New York, NY 10007

212-312-8800

Museum with exhibitions and hands-on learning about 9/11 and its effects

Hours: Wednesday through Monday 9:00 a.m.–7:00 p.m.

Price: Adults: $33; Children (7–12): $21; Teens (13–17): $27; Seniors (65+): $27; Under 6: Free. Family passes available for less. Free Admission on Mondays from 5:30 p.m.–7:00 p.m. Limited quantities available. Limit 4 tickets per person. Reservations available starting each Monday at 7:00 a.m. and are first come, first served.

Boscobel House and Gardens 1601 NY-9D, Garrison, NY 10524 845-265-3638

Historic house under construction; garden and grounds open

Hours: Gardens and grounds: Friday to Monday: 9:00 a.m.–7:00 p.m.

Price: Gardens and grounds: Adult: $14; Child (4–18): $7; Toddler (under 4): free

Hours: Chol Hamoed hours: 10:00 a.m.–6:00 p.m. Reservations required.

Price: Prices start at $37 per person.

FDR Home and Library

Observatory deck on 86th floor of the Empire State Building

Hours: Chol Hamoed hours: Thursday: 10:00 a.m.–10:00 p.m.; Friday to Sunday: 9:00 a.m.–10:00 p.m. Entry doors close at 9:00 p.m.

Price: Main Deck (86th Floor): Adults: $44; Children: $38; Seniors: $42. Main Deck + Top Deck (86th +102nd Floors): Adults: $79; Children: $73; Seniors: $77

Fulton Fish Market

Nocturnal expedition to experience the sight of fish vendors selling their goods

Hours: Monday through Friday 2:00 a.m.–7:00 a.m. Closed Sunday.

Price: Walk-ins: $5

Historical and Museums

George Washington Headquarters the DeWint House

20 Livingston Street, Tappan, NY 10983

845-359-1359

George Washington’s headquarters at four different occasions during the Revolution, the DeWint House, carriage house and surrounding grounds are open to the public to view and explore.

Hours: Tuesday to Friday: 10:00 a.m.–4:00 p.m.

Price: Free

Imagine That Museum

4 Vreeland Road, Florham Park, NJ 07932

973-966-8000

Interactive museum and activity center with fun areas for young children

Hours: Chol Hamoed hours: Thursday & Friday: 9:00 a.m.–3:00 p.m.; Sunday: 10:00 a.m.–5:30 p.m

Price: Children (ages 12 months to 10 years): $21.99; Adults (11+): $6.99

Kykuit - Rockefeller Estate

381 N Broadway, Sleepy Hollow, NY 10591

914-366-6900

Landmark estate offering tours of a 40-room home, gardens and art collection, plus panoramic views.

Hours: Tour times vary; check online or call for hours.

Price: 90-minute tour price starts at: Adult: $25; Senior: $23; Young Adult (18–25): $20; Youth (10–17): $20

Living Torah Museum

Museum displaying artifacts mentioned in Torah and in Jewish history; located in the heart of Boro Park

Hours: 9:00 a.m.–9:00 p.m. by appointment.

Harbor Defense Museum

230 Sheridan Loop, Brooklyn, NY 11252

718-630-4349

This 19th-century fort, NYC’s only military museum, is located within the grounds of Fort Hamilton.

Hours: Monday to Friday: 10:00 a.m.–4:00 p.m.

Price: Free

Interactive three-story Jewish-themed museum

Hours: Sunday: 10:00 a.m.–5:30 p.m.; Monday to Thursday: 10:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m.

Price: Child (2–5): $19; Adult (16+): $17; Senior (65+) $16; Disabled (1 free chaperone): $16

Liberty Science Center 222 Jersey City Boulevard, Jersey City, NJ 07305

201-200-1000

Amazing interactive science experience for learning and fun

Hours: Chol Hamoed hours not yet posted at time of print.

Price: Advance admission: Adults: $31; Children (2–12): $26. Same-day admission: Adults: $36; Children (2–12): $31. Theater Shows: $8.

Price: Each exhibit is $10 per person ages 3+ (under 3 free). Museum exhibits are 1 hour long each. Additional exhibits per day is $8 per person. Groups of 10 people or more are $8 per person for each exhibit. Lower East Side

Historical landmark museum showcasing actual tenement apartments

Hours: Sunday to Thursday: 10:00 a.m.–5:30 p.m.

Price: $30 per person

Historical and Museums

Lucy the Elephant

9200 Atlantic Avenue, Margate City, NJ 08402

609-823-6473

Quirky waterfront landmark, a six-story elephantshaped building built in 1881, with tours and views

Hours: Chol Hamoed hours: Thursday & Friday: 11:00

a.m.–4:00 p.m.; Sunday: 10:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m.

Price: Adults (13+): $8.50; Children (3–12): $4; Toddlers (2 and under): free

Hours: Self-guided house tour: Wednesday to Sunday: 1:00 p.m.–5:00 p.m. (Last entry 4:30 p.m.). Guided house tour: Wednesday to Sunday: 12:00 p.m. Reservations required for guided tours.

Price: Self-guided house tour: $15.50; Senior (65+): $10.50; Child (0–12): free. Guided house tour: $20.50. Private tours required for groups larger than 10 people.

Museum of Jewish Heritage

The museum is showcasing a fascinating living memorial of the Holocaust, with many new objects from Auschwitz that have never been seen before.

Hours: Chol Hamoed Hours: Sunday: 10:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m. Closed Monday and Tuesday.

Price: Adult: $18; Senior: $12; Child (0–12): free. Admission to the museum is free on Thursdays 4:00 p.m.–8:00 p.m. To reserve your advance free admission, choose a Thursday from the admission ticketing calendar and change the time dropdown to 4:00 p.m.

Newport Rhode Island Mansions

Opulent and magnificent preserved mansions used as summer homes for families like the Vanderbilts and the Astors

Madame Tussauds

The museum of famous figures located in the heart of Times Square

Hours: Chol Hamoed hours: Thursday & Friday: 10:00 a.m.–7:00 p.m.; Sunday: 10:00 a.m.–9:00 p.m.

Price: Prices online start at $40 per person.

Museum at Eldridge St. Shul

Historic restored 1887 Eldridge Street shul houses a museum as well as weekly Shabbos services.

Hours: 10:00 a.m–5:00 p.m.

Price: Adults: $15; Students and seniors: $10; Children (5–17): $8. “Pay What You Wish” admission offered Mondays and Fridays.

Hours: 10:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m.

Price: Adults: $25; Children (2–12): $20; Seniors: $20. These prices reflect an online purchase discount. Tickets purchased at the door have a $1 surcharge.

Hours: The Breakers, Marble House, The Elms and Rosecliff open on Chol Hamoed. Rosecliff open on Chol Hamoed from 10:00 a.m.–3:00 p.m. the others are open 10:00a.m.–5:00 p.m.

Price: Prices start at $29 for adults and $10 for youths (6–12).

Miniature railway museum built on 16 acres with over 8 miles of train tracks and 40+ bridges

Hours: 10:00 a.m.–6:00 p.m.

Price: Indoor tickets online: Adults: $40; Children (2-11): $30; Disabled: Free. Outdoor train ride tickets (nonrefundable): $25

House Museum

Built in 1832, this is the oldest NYC home perfectly preserved — both inside and out.

Historical and Museums

One World Observatory

285 Fulton Street, New York, NY 10007

844-696-1776

Admission to three floors of One World Trade Center, with views, observatory, elevators and exhibits

Hours: Chol Hamoed Hours: 9:00 a.m.–8:00 p.m.

Price: Prices start at $39 per person online and $44 at the door.

South Street Seaport

12 Fulton Street, New York, NY 10038

212-748-8600

Museum housing paintings, ship models, scrimshaw and more with vintage ships docked outside

Hours: Wednesday through Sunday: 11:00 a.m.–5:00 P.m.

Price: General Admission tickets are Pay What You Wish.

Options are as follows: Full-price admission is $18 per adult and $5 per child. Half-price admission is $9 per adult. One-dollar admission is $1 per adult and per child.

Stony Point State Park

44 Battlefield Roat, Stony Point, NY 10980

845-786-2521

Site of Battle of Stony Point with lighthouse, museum and weekly artillery drills and soldier camps reenactment

Hours: Wednesday to Friday: 9:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m.; Sunday:

12:00 p.m.–5:00 p.m. Gates lock promptly at 5:00 p.m. Museum: Wednesday to Friday: 10:00 a.m.–4:30 p.m.; Sunday: 12:00 p.m.–4:30 p.m.

Price: Free

Philipsburg Manor

A 1700s trading center and colonial manor with exhibits and hands-on demonstrations recreating the era

Hours: Check online for tour times.

Price: Advance purchase price: Adult: $18; Senior (65+) and young adult (18–25): $15; Child (3–17): $13; Child under 3: free. Same-day purchase is an additional $2.

Spyscape

Learn the art of espionage in these thrilling, selfguided tours.

Interactive museum that brings scientific concepts to life with fascinating exhibits

Hours: Chol Hamoed hours: Sunday: 10:00 a.m.–3:00 p.m.; Monday to Friday: 10:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m. Last entry 1 hour before closing.

Hours: 10:00 a.m.–8:00 p.m. Last entry is 90 minutes before closing.

Price: Prices start at $25 per person.

The Edge

Protruding observation deck 100 stories high, with a glass floor, bar and 360-degree views

Hours: Open daily from 9:00 a.m.–11:00 p.m.

Price: Online prices start at $34 plus $2 processing fee.

The Intrepid Sea, Air, and Space

Pier 86: W.

Military and maritime history museum inside original battleship

Hours: 10:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m.; last entry at 4:00 p.m.

Price: Adult (13–64): $38; Senior (65+): $36; Child (5–12): $28; Child (0–4): free. The museum offers free admission for EBT cardholders, up to three guests. Must have valid photo ID. The Franklin Institute

Price: Adults: $25; Children (3–11): $21

The New York Hall of Science (NYSCI)

47-01 111th Street, Corona, NY 11368 718-699-0005

NYSCI is located near Flushing Meadows Park and is one of NY’s best museums for interactive science.

Hours: Wednesday to Sunday: 10:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m.; Last entry: 4:00 p.m. Please note: The museum hosts many school groups on weekdays from 10:00 a.m.–2:00 p.m. Please visit after 2:00 p.m. if you want a quieter experience

Price: General admission: Adults: $22; Children, students and seniors: $19.”

Touro Synagogue

A historic tour of the oldest shul in the U.S. and one of the most architecturally distinguished buildings

845-229-7770

Hours: Sunday to Thursday: Every hour, starting at 10:00 a.m., with the last presentation at 1:00 p.m.

Price: Suggested donation of $5 per person.

Waterfront Museum 290 Conover Street, Brooklyn, NY 11231

A museum dedicated to education about maritime history

Hours: Closed this Chol Hamoed

Price: Free West Point Museum

2110 New South Post Road, West Point, NY 10996

845-938-3590

Military academy museum with galleries showcasing history of U.S. army, warfare and weapons

Hours: 9:30 a.m.–4:15 p.m.; closed Monday

Price: Free

Mansion

54-room well-preserved mansion with magnificent grounds and gardens

Hours: Chol Hamoed Hours: Sunday: 10:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m. Closed Monday and Tuesday

Price: Admission includes access to the grounds and open portions of the mansion, but not the planetarium: Adult (16+): $15; Child (0–15): free.

Transit Museum

718-694-1600

A museum displaying historical artifacts of the New York City Subway, bus, and commuter rail systems

Hours: Wednesday to Sunday: 10:00 a.m.–4:00 p.m.

Price: Adults: $10; Children (2–17): $5; Seniors (62+): $5

HISTORICAL AND MUSEUMS

Aquariums and Zoos

Adventure Aquarium

1 Riverside Drive, Camden, NJ 08103

856-365-3300

Aquarium with shark bridge, penguin island and touch poolere

Hours: Chol Hamoed hours: Sunday: 9:30 a.m.–5:00 p.m.; Monday to Friday: 9:30 a.m.–4:30 p.m. Tickets are limited by entry time on a first-come, first-served basis. Reservations are strongly encouraged. Last entry 1.5 hours before closing.

Price: Prices start at $33.99 per person.

Bronx Zoo

2300 Southern Boulevard, Bronx, NY 10460 718-367-1010

Metropolitan zoo with 265 acres that harbors 4,000 animals in replicas of their native habitats

Hours: Chol Hamoed Hours: Sunday: 10:00 a.m.–5:30 p.m.; Monday & Tuesday 10:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m.

Price: Adult (13+): $38.20; Senior (65+): $36.20; Child (3–12): $28.20; Baby (0–2): free. Wednesday tickets are reduced.

Advance tickets are required for Wednesday reduced admission, and are made available at 5:00 p.m. the Monday before. Maximum of four tickets per order. Parking: $22.

Jenkinson’s

Aquarium

300 Ocean Avenue, Point Pleasant Beach, NJ 08742

732-899-1212

Small aquarium with a large variety of marine life, including sharks, penguins, seals and octopuses

Hours: 10:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m.

Price: Adults: $18; Seniors (65+): $13; Children (3–11): $12; Children 2 & under: Free

Long

Island Aquarium

431 E Main Street, Riverhead, NY 11901

631-208-9200 ext. 426

Aquarium with fascinating exhibits and many interesting marine animals and fish

Bailiwick Animal Park and Riding Stables

118 Castle Rd, Catskill, NY 12414

518-678-5665

The Animal Park is home to over 30 exhibits of domestic and exotic animals. Horseback riding available at the stables.

Hours: 10:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m. Last admission: 4:00 p.m.

Price: Adult (15+): $20; Senior (65+): $15; Child (3–14): $15; Baby (0–2): free

Central Park Zoo

212-439-6500

State-of-the-art zoo with variety of habitats, featuring snow leopards to tropical birds

Hours: Chol Hamoed Hours: Sunday: 10:00 a.m.–5:30 p.m.; Monday & Tuesday 10:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m.

Price: Adults (13+): $19.95; Seniors (65+): $16.95; Children (3–12): $14.95; Children 2 and under: Free

Long Island Game Farm Park and Zoo

489 Chapman Blvd., Manorville, NY 11949

631-878-6670

Scenic farm with a smaller selection of animals, but the petting zoo is loads of fun. Kids can feed and even hold baby goats and chicks! The hours are limited but the shows are nice.

Hours: Monday through Friday: 10:00 a.m. –4:00 p.m.; Sunday: 10:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m.

Price: Adult (13–61): $50.99; Senior (62+): $36.99; Child (3–12): $35.99; Baby (0–2): free

Hours: 10:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m., weather permitting

Price: Adult (13–61): $26.95; Senior (62+): $22.95; Child (3–12): $19.95; Baby (0–2): free. Family Fun Pack: $210.

Maritime Aquarium

10 N. Water Street, Norwalk, Connecticut 06854

203-852-0700

Great aquarium with many species and fascinating exhibitions for the entire family

Hours: Chol Hamoed hours not yet posted at time of print.

Price: Adult (13–64): $39.95; Senior (65+): $34.95; Child (3–12): $29.95. Under 3 free.

Mystic Aquarium

55 Coogan Boulevard, Mystic, CT 06355

860-572-5955

Amazing aquarium with thousands of fish, exotic marine animals and fascinating outdoor exhibits

Hours: Chol Hamoed hours: 9:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m.; last entry at 3:00 p.m.

Price: Prices vary by day. Chol Hamoed pricing starts at $34.

New York Aquarium

602 Surf Avenue, Brooklyn, NY 11224

718-265-3474

Newly renovated state-of-the-art aquarium with sea lion show, penguins, sharks and many fish

Hours: Opens 10:00 a.m–5:00 p.m. Last entry 4:00 p.m.

Price: Off peak: Adults (13+): $29.95; Seniors (65+): $27.95; Children (3–12): $25.95; Children 2 and under: Free

Philadelphia Zoo

3400 W. Girard Avenue, Philadelphia, PA 19104

215-243-1100

Huge children’s zoo with incredible creatures and many fun activities

Hours: The zoo is open from 9:30 a.m–5:00 p.m. Last admission at 3:30 p.m. Advance online registration required for general admission. There will be a sukkah on site.

Price: Reservations required. Prices vary between $27–$34. Parking starts at $19.

Prospect Park Zoo

450 Flatbush Avenue, Brooklyn, NY 11225

718-399-7339

More than 125 species within the confines of a 12-acre menagerie suitable for all ages

Hours: Chol Hamoed Hours: Sunday: 10:00 a.m.–5:30 p.m.; Monday & Tuesday 10:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m.

Price: Adults (13+): $9.95; Seniors (65+): $7.95; Children (3–12): $6.95

Aquariums and Zoos

Queens Zoo

53–51 111th Street, Corona, NY 11368

718-271-1500

18-acre zoo with trails, aviary, domestic animals, sea lion pool, bears, pumas, parrots and bison

Hours: Chol Hamoed Hours: Sunday: 10:00 a.m.–5:30 p.m.; Monday & Tuesday 10:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m.

Price: Adults (13+): $9.95; Seniors (65+): $7.95; Children (3–12): $6.95; Children 2 and under: Free

Staten Island Zoo

614 Broadway, Staten Island, NY 10310

718-442-3100

Small suburban zoo with nice variety of animals and animal feeding

Hours: 10:00 a.m.–4:45 p.m.

Price: Adult (13+): $25; Senior (65+): $24; Child (3–12): $21

Turtle Back Zoo

560 Northfield Avenue, West Orange, NJ 07052

973-731-5800

Excellent zoo for children, with great animals, pony rides, feedings, train, paddle boats, ropes course and more

Hours: 10:00 a.m.–4:30 p.m.

Price: Adult (15+): $12; Senior (60+): $9; Child (3–14): $8; Baby (0–2): free

Woodbridge Aquarium & Wildlife

101 Woodbridge Center Drive, Woodbridge, NJ 07095

848-353-1483

A small interactive aquarium in a mall in Woodbridge

Hours: Sunday: 11:00 a.m.–6:00 p.m.; Weekdays: 11:00 a.m.–7:00 p.m.

Price: General Admission (13+): $14.99; Youth (4–12): $9.99; Child (0–3): free

Space Farms Zoo and Museum

218 County Road 519, Sussex, NJ 07461

973-875-5800

Zoo and museum with over 500 animals in their natural surroundings

Hours: 10:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m. Last entry 4:00 p.m.

Price: Adult (13+): $25; Senior (65+): $24; Child (3–12): $21

AQUARIUMS AND ZOOS

chol hamoed schedule:

tours every hour on the hour men-only tours 8pm & 9pm nightly 9am-8pm daily tours

erev yom tov second days open until 5pm

Boating and Ferries

Circle Line Cruises

Pier 83 W 42nd Street, New York, NY 10036

212-563-3200

Cruises for views of Statue of Liberty, Manhattan skyline, landmarks and more

Hours: Timing varies by cruise type.

Price: Prices depend on the type of cruise.

Ellis and Liberty Island Ferry

Ferry departs from

Tours that include cruise and access to Liberty and Ellis Islands

Hours: 9:00 a.m.–4:00 p.m.; reservations required.

Price: Prices start at $25.50 per person.

Essex County Paddle Boats

9 Cherry Lane, West Orange, NJ 07052 973-232-5148

Swan-shaped paddle boats next to Turtle Back Zoo

Hours: Open weekends: 12:00 p.m.–7:00 p.m. No advance ticket sales. Tickets are available on a first-come, first-served basis.

Price: 2-person paddle boat: $17; 4-person paddle boat: $21. Price is for 30 minutes on the water. All boaters 12 years old or younger MUST be accompanied by an adult 18+. Children under 2 and pets are not permitted on paddle boats.

Island

A recreational island off Manhattan where no motors are allowed. It can be reached by ferry and offers bicycle rentals of all kinds, a museum and fun outdoor activitites.

Hours: Ferries depart periodically between 7:00 a.m. and 4:15 p.m. Return ferries run between 7:15 a.m. and 6:00 p.m.

Price: Round-trip ferry ticket: Adults: $5; Seniors (65+); Children under 12: Free. Ferry free on Sundays before noon.

Luxury boat rental for relaxing cruise on beautiful Greenwood Lake

Hours: By reservation. Call for hours and prices.

Boating and Ferries

Haverstraw-Ossining Ferry

30-34 Girling Drive (off 9W), Haverstraw, NY 10927

1-800-53FERRY

Commuter ferry that transports passengers between Haverstraw and Ossining

Hours: Ferry operates for commuters by New York Waterway. The ferry leaves Haverstraw about every half-hour, starting at 5:47 a.m. Last morning ferry departs at 8:42 a.m. First afternoon ferry from Haverstraw departs at 5:21 p.m. and last ferry departs at 9:22 p.m. Ferry leaves Ossining about every half-hour starting at 6:00 a.m. Last morning ferry departs at 8:57 a.m. First afternoon ferry from Ossining departs at 5:06 p.m. and last ferry departs at 9:42 p.m.

Price: Adult one-way ferry fare: $4.50; Seniors, disabled, and Medicare recipients: $2.25 with ID; Children (0–5): free; Children (6–11): $2.25

Ferry 1 Hudson Place, Hoboken, NJ 07030

Commuter ferry from Hoboken to Pier 11 or World Financial Center in Manhattan

Swinging Bridge Marina

371 Starlight Rd, Monticello, NY 12701

845-794-6530

Motor boat rentals

Hours: Runs all day at 35-minute intervals.

Hours: Call for hours.

Price: Prices start at $700 for 4 hours.

Price: Prices start at $7.50/adult. Prices depend on the route. The Staten Island Ferry

Marina 2 S Beach Road, Lake Hopatcong, NJ 07849

Speedboat rental with driver; option of tubing in water

25-minute commuter ferry between Manhattan and Staten Island

Hours: Operates 24/7. Ferry departs every 30 minutes, with increased service (every 15 to 20 minutes) during weekday rush hours (6:00–9:00 a.m. and 3:30–8:00 p.m.).

Price: Free

BOATING AND FERRIES

Hours: By reservation. Call for hours and prices.

Hours: Chol Hamoed: by reservation

Price: Varies by

Tours

Above the Clouds Balloon Rides

100 Airport Road, New Hampton, NY 10958

845-360-5594

Half-hour to an hour scenic ride up in the clouds on a picture-perfect hot air balloon

Hours: Reservations required

Price: Prices start at $375 per person

Central Park Carriage

In front of 240 Central Park South, New York, NY 10019

347-873-9213

Open-air ride through Central Park in horse-drawn carriage. Max four adults per carriage, or three adults and two children, two adults and four children, or one adult and six hildren (children must be 12 years old or younger).

Hours: Sunday: 8:30 a.m.–11:30 p.m.; Monday to Friday: 9:45 a.m.–11:30 p.m.

Price: Pricing is per carriage, not per person. Price starts at $99 for a short ride.

Central

Park Pedicab Tours

8 West 58th St; near 5th Avenue, New York, NY 10019

917-405-1303

Offering 1- to 3-hour pedicab tours through Central Park

The Roosevelt Island Tramway

60th Street and 2nd Avenue, New York, NY 10022 212-832-4555

Aerial tramway that spans East River and leads to Roosevelt Island, where there’s a beautiful park

Hours: 6:00 a.m.–2:00 a.m., every 15 min; during rush hour (7:00–10:15 a.m. and 3:00–8:00 p.m.), service is increased to every 7.5 minutes

Price: Anyone above 44” tall: $2.90 per way. MTA MetroCards required for pay. (MetroCards are available for purchase at the Tram Station from vending machines for $1.) Up to three children 44” tall and under ride for free on the Tram when accompanied by a fare-paying adult.

TOURS

Hours: Tours run from 8:00 a.m.–6:00 p.m.

Price: Online prices start at $48–$50 per person.

Liberty Helicopter Tours

6 East River Piers #212, New York, NY 10005

212-786-5751

Birds’-eye view of New York City and surrounding area

Hours: Advance Reservations Required

Price: Prices start at $249 per person + $40 heliport fee.

Airplane Observation

Aviation Hall of Fame

Museum with models of military aircraft and history of aviation

Hours: Closed Chol Hamoed

Price: Adults: $15.00; Seniors: $12; Children (3–12): $12

Newark Liberty International Airport

AirTrain is free in the airport; best spot of watching is from the parking lot of Ikea at 1000 Ikea Drive in Elizabeth, NJ.

Price: Free

Skydive the Ranch

Viewing area to watch people skydiving

Hours: Call for hours before coming

Price: Free

Westchester County Airport

This airport is less busy and way less overwhelming than the international airports. There’s an observation deck on the third floor where airplanes can be watched taking off and landing.

Price: Free

John F Kennedy International Airport

AirTrain is free and gives children a fascinating bird’s-eye view of this bustling airport. Parking lots 2 and 5 offer nice views of airplanes taking off and landing.

Price: Free

Planeview Park

A park right near La Gaurdia airport with awesome views of planes landing and taking off (parking may be difficult)

Hours: 6:00 a.m.–9:00 p.m.

Price: Free

Teterboro Airport

East of the airport, on Redneck Drive, there are some playing fields with great views of aircraft taking off.

Price: Free

A New Year A Fresh Chapter A New Mayor

To all my dear Jewish friends and neighbors: May this season bring you sweetness, blessing, and a year filled with health and happiness.

With heartfelt wishes, Your longtime friend Andrew Cuomo

Palisades Mall

5 Wits

4270 Palisades Center Drive, West Nyack, NY 10994; Top floor between Target and AMC 845-533-2666

A multi-room immersive adventure experience with special effects that adapts to group’s performance

Hours: Sunday: 11:00 a.m.–7:00 p.m.; Weekdays: 12:00 p.m.–8:00 p.m.

Price: $29 per person for first adventure

Billy Beez

1000 Palisades Center Drive, West Nyack, NY 10944 845-535-9277

Play arena with slides, trampolines, obstacle courses for safe, hands-on fun

Hours: Monday to Thursday: 11:00 a.m.–8:00 p.m.; Friday to Sunday: 10:00 a.m.–9:00 p.m. Admission desk closes 1 hour before listed closing time.

Price: Child (4–17): $21.95; Toddler (1–3): $17.95; Infant (0–11 months): Free with paid child or toddler, or $15.95 for infant and adult. First adult (18+): $8.95; Second adult (18+): $10.95; Senior (65+): Free with paid child or toddler. Mega 10-packs available for children or toddlers.for infant and adult. First adult (18+): $8.95; Second adult (18+): $10.95; Senior (65+): Free with paid child or toddler. Mega 10-packs available for children or toddlers.

Climbzone- Palisades

3594 Palisades Center Dr, West Nyack, NY 10994 845-605-9555

Themed climbing walls. Additional location in Lakewood.

Hours: Monday to Thursday: 12:00 p.m.–7:00 p.m.; Friday to Sunday: 11:00 a.m.–7:00 p.m.

Price: Prices start at $19.99 for 30 minutes.

K1 (Formerly Autobahn Indoor Speedway)

2272 Palisades Center Drive #A200, West Nyack, NY 10994

845-535-1515

High speed karting. They now also offer VR and axe throwing.

Hours: Sunday: 10:00 a.m.–10:00 p.m.; Monday to Thursday: 12:00 p.m.–10:00 P.M.; Friday: 12:00 p.m.–12:00 a.m.

Price: Prices start at $28.95 for 1 race. Yearly license for $7.95 required.

Palisades Climb Adventure

Palisades Center, 4590 Palisades Center Drive, West Nyack, NY 10994

845-727-3500

The world’s tallest ropes course boasting 85 feet and five levels, on Level 4 of the Palisades Mall

Hours: Sunday: 11:00 a.m.–6:00 p.m.; Friday: 3:00 p.m.–6:00 p.m.; Monday to Thursday: closed

Price: $27.99; $11.99 for SkyTykes (under 48”)

Build-A-Bear Workshop

3771 Palisades Center Dr, West Nyack,

Children can choose, stuff, name and clothe their own stuffed animals.

Hours: Sunday: 11:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m.; Weekdays: 11:00 a.m.–7:30 p.m.

Price: Price varies depending on the bear and accessories chosen.

Escape the Mystery Room

Thrilling escape rooms of different difficulty levels

Hours: 11:00 a.m.–7:00 p.m.

Price: Prices start at $29.89.

Palisades Center Ice Rink

4900 Palisades Center Drive, West Nyack, NY 10994

An indoor ice rink

Hours: Chol Hamoed hours not yet posted at time of print.

Price: $20 per hour

Time Mission

Teams of two to five players are assigned short challenges to complete using skill, speed and brains.

Hours: Monday to Thursday: 12:00 p.m.–9:00 p.m.

Price: Prices start at $29.99 per person.

American Dream

Activate

1 American Dream Way, East Rutherford, NJ 07073

201-636-7588

Interactive challenging games. One to three minutes each, with varying difficulty levels.

Hours: Sunday to Thursday: 10:00 a.m.–10:00 p.m.

Price: Sunday: $29.99 per player; Monday to Thursday: $24.99 per player

Angry Birds Mini Golf

1 American Dream Way, East Rutherford, NJ 07073

833-263-7326

Miniature golf

Hours: 11:00 a.m.–8:00 p.m.

Price: $20 per person; $3 discount if purchased online

Blacklight Mini Golf

1 American Dream Way, East Rutherford, NJ 07073

833-263-7326

Glow-in-the-dark mini golf

Hours: 11:00 a.m.–8:00 p.m.

Price: $20 per person; $3 discount if purchased online

Big Snow

1 American Dream Way, East Rutherford, NJ 07073

973-864-6600

Indoor skiing and snowboarding with equipment rental. Lessons available. New option of Snow Tubing and Play as well as Sno-Go Bikes.

Hours: Sunday: 10:00 a.m.–8:00 p.m.; Monday to Friday: 1:00 p.m.–8:00 p.m.

Price: Advance reservations recommended. $99.99 for slope access and ski equipment; $59.99 for snow tubing.

Blast 7D

1 American Dream Way, East Rutherford, NJ 07073

551-248-4943

Fully interactive and fully immersive 7D ride

Hours: 11:00 a.m.–9:00 p.m.

Price: $15; 15% off online with coupon code SUKKOT2025

American Dream

Build-A-Bear Workshop

1 American Dream Way, Space B162, East Rutherford, NJ 07073-2147

201-514-1735

Children can choose, stuff, name and clothe their own stuffed animals.

Hours: 11:00 a.m.–8:00 p.m.

Price: Price varies depending on the bear and accessories chosen.

Hours: Sunday: 11:00 a.m.–8:00 p.m.; Monday to Thursday: 12:00 p.m.–9:00 p.m.; Friday: 12:00 p.m.–10:00 p.m.

Price: Adults (12+): $24.48 per person; Children (5–11): $18.67 per person

DreamWorks Water Park

1 American Dream Way, East Rutherford, NJ 07073

Tickets can be purchased at americandream.com/chol. Otherwise, email events@americandream.com.

The largest indoor waterpark in the United States, which features many record-breaking attractions

Hours: Chol Hamoed event: Thursday: Women: 11:00 a.m.–4:00 p.m. Men: 5:30 p.m.–10:30 p.m. Limited availability.

Price: Until September 28: $79 a ticket. After September 28: $89 a ticket. Family pack: 4 tickets for $300

Geoffrey’s Express is a train ride that starts and ends at

Hapik

1 American Dream Way, Space C302, East Rutherford, NJ 07073 732-491-8193

A fun climbing center offering rock climbing walls, a ropes course and additional climbing challenges

Hours: Chol Hamoed hours: Thursday & Friday: 12:00 p.m.–6:00 p.m.; Sunday: 10:00 a.m.–6:00 p.m.

Price: Kids and adults climbing pass: $34.90; Group climbing pass (minimum 4 guests): $29.90; Toddlers (soft play only pass): $19.90

Legoland Discovery Center

Various interactive activities including Miniland made of Lego, Lego softplay, earthquake tables and much more.

Hours: Chol Hamoed hours: Thursday & Friday: 10:00 a.m.–7:00 p.m.; last entry at 5:30 p.m. Sunday: 11:00 a.m.–6:30 p.m.; last entry at 5:00 p.m.

Price: Prices online start at $29.99.

Maze

Mirror maze experience

Hours: 11:00 a.m.–8:00 p.m.

Price: $10 per person. Buy online in advance and save $3

Hours: Chol Hamoed Hours: Sunday: 12:00 p.m.–8:00 p.m. Monday & Tuesday: 1:00 p.m.–8:00 p.m.

Price: $10 per person. Children under 2 ride free. Up to 16 people can ride the train at once.

Nickelodeon Universe Theme Park

1

833-263-7326

The biggest indoor theme park in the Western Hemipshere

Hours: Chol Hamoed hours: Thursday: 11:00 a.m.–10:00 p.m.; Friday: 12:00 p.m.–8:00 p.m.; Sunday: 11:00 a.m.–7:00 p.m.

Price: All-Access Pass: $59

Sea Life

1 American Dream Way, East Rutherford, NJ 07073

551-234-6382

Family-friendly aquarium with a variety of sea creatures and exhibits

Hours: Chol Hamoed hours: Thursday & Friday: 10:00 a.m.–8:00 p.m.; Sunday: 11:00 a.m.–7:00 p.m.

Price: Prices online start at: $34.99/adult

Sesame Street Learn & Play

1 American Dream Way, Level 1, Space A156, East Rutherford, NJ 07073

833-263-7326

Sesame Place-themed Learn and Play Center for young children

Hours: 10:00 a.m.–7:00 p.m.

Price: Prices start at $26.

The Tilt Museum

1 American Dream Way, East Rutherford, NJ 07073 (201) 762-6278

An interactive 3D museum that takes you inside art and tilts your viewpoint

Hours: 11:00 a.m.–8:00 p.m.

Price: $15 per person. Purchase online to save $2 per ticket.

The Escape Game

1 American Dream Way, East Rutherford, NJ 07073

833-263-7326

Six fun and challenging escape rooms

Hours: 8:10 a.m.–11:30 p.m.

Price: Online prices start at $45.99 per person.

The Rink

1 American Dream Way, East Rutherford, NJ 07073

833-263-7326

Massive ice skating rink at American Dream Mall

Hours: Chol Hamoed hours: 11:00 a.m.–7:00 p.m.

Price: Non-peak days: $25; peak days: $35

Meetup Locations

Chol Hamoed is a great time to spend quality time with family and friends. Finding an appropriate place to meet between the various areas people live tends to be challenging. In this section we’ll share a variety of locations between Monsey, Boro Park and Lakewood. If you are planning on meeting a large amount of people, please check that the attraction or park can accomodate the crowd.

Florham Park Roller Rink

192 Ridgedale Ave., Florham Park, NJ 07932

973-377-0456

Hours: Call for current hours

Price: Admission whether skating or not: $10; $6

Kids Empire-Linden

860 W Edgar Road, Linden, NJ 07036

908-257-0530

Indoor playground with supersized climbing and sliding fun

Echo Lake Park

Hours: Monday to Thursday: 10:00 a.m.–8:00 p.m.; Friday to Sunday: 10:00 a.m.–10:00 p.m.

Price: All-day access with re-entry. Adult (18+): 2 free entries per child, $5 per additional adult; Child (1–17): $22.90; Infant (0–11 months): free.

Liberty State Park

Park with a playground, and paths along the Hudson River featuring views of Manhattan and ferry to Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island

Hours: 6:00 a.m.–10:00 p.m.

Price: Free

Hours:

Jersey Lanes

Hours: Call for open bowl times. Price: Price varies by the time. Price starts at $9 per person per hour.

Liberty

Science Center

Amazing interactive science experience for learning and fun

Hours: Chol Hamoed hours not yet posted at time of print.

Price: Advance admission: Adult: $30.99; Child (2–12): $25.99. Same-day admission: Adult: $32.99; Child (2–12): $27.99. Theater shows: $8

Linden Lanes

A friendly and affordable bowling center

Hours: Call for open bowl times.

Price: Prices vary. Check online for bowling specials.

Meetup Locations

Mattano Park

360-484 5th Ave., Elizabeth, NJ 07202

Park with playground, ball fields, a skate park and a spray park in the summer. The Elizabeth River runs alongside the park.

Hours: Open 24 hours

Price: Free

Overpeck County Park

50 Fort Lee Road, Leonia, NJ 07605

201-336-7275

Great park with fun equipment and jungle gyms, water views, walking paths, and boat rentals in warmer seasons

Hours: 6:00 a.m.–10:00 p.m.

Price: Free

Sky Zone Trampoline ParkSpringfield

25 US-22, Springfield Township, NJ 07081

973-671-5100

Indoor trampoline park featuring freestyle bouncing, dodgeball and so much more. Reservations required. Waiver must be signed before visiting.

Hours: Chol Hamoed hours: Thursday: 12:00 p.m.–7:30 p.m.; Friday: 11:30 a.m.–6:30 p.m.; Sunday: 9:00 a.m.–7:30 p.m.

Price: 90 minutes: $31.99 + mandatory socks

The Funplex

182 NJ-10, East Hanover, NJ 07936

973-428-1166

Indoor family amusement center with go-karts, bumper cars, laser tag, arcades and more. Additional location: Mount Laurel, NJ.

Hours: Chol Hamoed hours: Thursday & Friday: 4:00 p.m.–9:00 p.m.; Sunday: 10:00 a.m.–9:00 p.m.

Price: Pay per activity or purchase wristband starting at $29 during the week, $45 weekends.

Nomahegan Park

995 Springfield Ave, Cranford, NJ 07016

908-527-4900

A park offering scenic trails, sports fields and a playground

Hours: 7:00 a.m.–7:00 p.m.

Price: Free

Supercharged

987 U.S. Rte 1, Edison, NJ 08817

908-624-8242

World’s largest indoor multi-level karting track

Hours: Sunday: 9:00 a.m.–11:00 p.m.; Monday to Thursday: 11:00 a.m.–12:00 a.m.; Friday: 11:00 a.m.–1:00 a.m.

Price: $29 for one race

Turtle Back Zoo

560 Northfield Avenue, West Orange, NJ 07052

Excellent zoo for children, with great animals, train, pony rides, feedings, paddle boats, ropes course and more

Hours: 10:00 a.m.–4:30 p.m.

Price: Adult (15+): $12; Senior (60+): $9; Child (3–14): $8; Baby (0–2): free

Urban Air Trampoline and Adventure Park (Avenel, NJ)

1600 St. Georges Ave., Avenel, NJ 07001

732-640-8847

Trampoline park with additional attractions

Hours: Sunday: 10:00 a.m.–9:00 p.m.; Monday to Thursday: 3:00 p.m.–9:00 p.m.; Friday: 2:00 p.m.–10:00 p.m.

Price: Prices start at $27.99

Treetop Adventure Course

560 Northfield Avenue, West Orange, NJ 07052

973-731-5800, Ext. 0

Outdoor ropes course near Turtle Back Zoo

Hours: Chol Hamoed hours: Sunday: 10:00 a.m.–4:00 p.m. Timed entry ticket required.

Price: Adult course: $30; Junior course: $20; Zipline: $15; Adult course + zipline: $35; Junior course + zipline: $27

Warinanco Park

Warinanco Park Roadway, Roselle, NJ 07036

Expansive park offering an ice-skating rink and lake activities plus multiple playing fields and trails

Hours: 6:00 a.m.–9:00 p.m.

Price: Free

Regatta Playground

9 Cherry Lane, West Orange, NJ 07052

Large playground near Turtle Back Zoo and Essex County Paddle Boating

Hours: 8:00 a.m.–10:00 p.m.

Price: Free Safari MiniGolf

9 Cherry Lane, West Orange, NJ 07052

973-731-5800

Outdoor safari-themed mini golf located near Turtle Back Zoo

Hours: Weekends: 10:00 a.m.–7:00 p.m.

Price: Adult: $14; Child: $12; Senior: $12

paddle boats next to Turtle Back Zoo

Hours: Open weekends: 12:00 p.m.–7:00 p.m. No advance ticket sales. Tickets are available on a first-come, first-served basis.

Price: 2-person paddle boat: $17; 4-person paddle boat: $21. Price is for 30 minutes on the water. All boaters 12 years old or younger MUST be accompanied by an adult 18+. Children under 2 and pets are not permitted on paddle boats.

MEETUP LOCATIONS

I

I brought JOY to When? Where?

I brought JOY to When? Where?

Here’s how it works:

Contest is open to participants over 12 years of age.

Bring JOY to your Bubby, Zeidy, elderly relative or neighbor by visiting, helping them at home, or running an errand for them.

$150 at

Three acts of JOY in Tishrei make you eligible for a chance to win

OUR STORY PICKS UP RIGHT WHERE THE LAST ONE LEFT OFF. AFTER THE MORENO AND RUBINOV FAMILIES DISCOVERED THE HIDDEN TREASURE BEHIND THE OLD FIREPLACE IN THE MORENOS’ HOME, YEHUDAH AND YISHAI MADE SURE TO SEND A LARGE SUM TO HELP THE STRUGGLING JEWISH IMMIGRANTS OF MOISÉS VILLE TO HELP BUILD THE TOWN AND TREAT THOSE WHO HAD FALLEN ILL WITH TYPHUS. MEANWHILE, PEDRO MORENO IS GALLOPING OUT OF THE CITY, ON THE RUN FROM JOAQUIN TORQUEMADA, THE CORRUPT PRISON WARDEN TO WHOM HE OWES A HEAVY DEBT. AS HE ESCAPES, PEDRO ALSO BEGINS TO LEARN ABOUT WHO HE REALLY IS, AND WHAT IT MEANS TO BE A JEW.

WILL HE SUCCEED IN FLEEING FROM HIS PURSUERS AND FIND HIS WAY BACK TO YIDDISHKEIT? WHAT OTHER SECRETS LIE HIDDEN IN THE OLD JOURNAL OF HIS ANCESTOR, ELIAS MORENO? WHY DID ELIAS AND HIS COMMUNITY LEAVE THEIR TREASURE BEHIND WHEN THEY MOVED TO SURINAME? WHY DIDN’T THEY TAKE THEIR RICHES WITH THEM?

IN THIS NEW ADVENTURE, WHERE PAST AND PRESENT TWIST TOGETHER, SECRETS COME TO LIGHT, CLUES BEGIN TO SURFACE, AND ONE PERSON’S SIMPLE FAITH LEADS OUR HERO DOWN A WINDING PATH… ALL THE WAY BACK HOME.

IT IS LATE EVENING. A LONE RIDER RACES THROUGH THE NIGHT ALONG AN UNPAVED DIRT PATH, ACROSS THE WIDE PAMPAS OF ARGENTINA.

IT’S DANGEROUS TO GALLOP LIKE THIS IN THE DARK, AND THE HORSE IS SO TIRED. BUT I HAVE NO CHOICE. IF I STOP, I MIGHT GET CAUGHT BY —

A ROADBLOCK?! ARE THOSE JOAQUIN’S MEN? POLICE? EITHER WAY, I’M IN BIG TROUBLE... STOP!

TO PEDRO’S SURPRISE…

STOP, OR I’LL SHOOT, PEDRO.

CATCHING YOU. WE WORK FOR JOAQUIN NOW.

OH... IT’S JUST YOU GUYS. YOU GAVE ME A SCARE FOR A SECOND.

WHAT, WE’RE NOT SCARY ENOUGH FOR YOU? AFTER ALL THE TROUBLE WE WENT THROUGH TO CATCH YOU?

COME ON, FRIENDS, YOU’RE STILL MAD ABOUT WHAT HAPPENED IN THE LOST CITY?

I WAS JUST TRYING TO DO A GOOD DEED AND HELP THE JEWS IN MOISÉS VILLE. I WOULD’VE GLADLY SHARED THE TREASURE WITH YOU, BUT I DIDN’T EVEN END UP WITH IT.

OH, WE DIDN’T CHASE YOU DOWN TO GET REVENGE. WE HAVE A NEW JOB.

CONGRATULATIONS. FINALLY FOUND A RESPECTABLE JOB? BORDER PATROL?

I THINK PEDRO TRICKED US. WHAT’S THAT SUPPOSED TO MEAN, JOAQUIN?!

HUH?! JOAQUIN’S HERE?

DIDN’T WE SETTLE THINGS ALREADY? WHY ARE YOU SENDING THEM AFTER ME?

BOGGLE TOURNAMENT

HOW TO PLAY:

1. Gather round the table to play a family game of Boggle, using this Boggle board.

2. Once you have a winner, fill out the form below in its entirety

3. Email the form to comments@ thewview.com or fax to 718-2478881 by Sunday at midnight.

4. Two winners will be drawn each week, each of whom will receive by mail a $10 gift card at Sprinkles!

PLAYING RULES:

Find words on the board containing four letters or more. Letters of a word must be connected in a chain (each letter should be adjacent to the next either vertically, horizontally or diagonally), and each letter can only be used once in a given word. The following are not allowed in Boggle: Adding “s” to a word • Proper nouns • Abbreviations • Contractions • Acronyms

POINTS

4-letter words: 2 points | 5-letter words: 3 points | 6-letter words: 5 points | 7-letter words: 7 points | 8-letter words: 9 points | 9+ letters: 12 points

HINT

Each Boggle board hides a word of nine letters or more!

The TournamentBogglewill resume after Sukkos. Enjoy the game without competition! G S A E D E U C T H O C E F M N R A I G B P L U L

Family name: ___________________________________________________________________ Phone: ___________________________________________________________________________

Full mailing address: _________________________________________________________

Full name of winner: _________________________________________________________

Amount of points: ____________________________________________________________

Full names of competing players:

List some words only the winner found: The longest word found on the board: __________________________________ A new word you learned from the

Send your colored page to The Williamsburg View to enter a drawing for a chance to have your artwork featured in our pages and win $10 at Toys4U! Four lucky winners will be announced each week. To enter the raffle, email your colored page

Feel free to photocopy this coloring page for the entire family.

Libby Mendlowitz, 10, Satmar

Yossi Schwartz, 16, Satmar

Chavala

Moskovics, 6, Nitra

Shaindy

Wagschal, 8, Satmar

CLASSIFIEDS

FOR SALE

DOONA CAR SEAT BASE

Brand new, never used. Price $125. Please call: 929.214.7721

REAL ESTATE

BY OWNER

Two-family house is now for sale by owner at 312 Foster Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11230 For more details, call 347-5705484.

WEST PALM BEACH FLORIDA

APT. FOR SALE Century Village-Golf Edge. 1 ½ bedroom apt. 2 baths, Brand new appliances, Ready to move in now. Price $200K or best offer. Call: 845.325.0500

WEST PALM BEACH FLORIDA

Century Village, Willington M, 2 Bedroom apt. Ground floor FOR SALE. Call: 347.760.0639

HOTEL 15

Big villa in serene area outside Monroe. 8 couple bedrooms, Teen bedroom 8 beds plus 20 kids beds. For Pictures hotelfifteen.com Call to book 845-837-5662

WEST PALM BEACH FLORIDA

For the best Real Estate deals, contact Mrs. Debby Schwartz 203.667.2785

MIAMI BEACH FLORIDA

Carriage Club North, Beautiful 2 bedroom, 2 bath, Ground floor. Call: 347.499.0031

MIAMI BEACH FLORIDA

Collins Ave. Beautiful ocean view. 1 bedroom apt. Call: 347.760.0570

NORTH MIAMI

A beautiful 3 bedrooms, 3 bath villa in North Miami, with private inground heated pool & spa. Price/night $289. Pictures available. 845.327.7153

SUKKOS RENTAL

Gorgeous 3/5 bdrm, 2/3 bath villa with heated outdoor hot tub avail. in Mountaindale, near Shuls. Price/night $350. (Pics avail.) 845.327.7153

NORTH MIAMI FL RENTAL

2-bedroom, 2-baths with private heated pool and spa. Summer Price $300 per night. Call/Text: 917-3824810, email: 1752nmb@gmail. com www.themangotreat. com

NORTH MIAMI VACATION RENTAL

Beautiful, modern 4 Bdrm 3 Bthrm house for rent. Private Heated pool with spa. Pergola and covered dining area in backyard. Quiet, private neighborhood. For more info, please call or text 646-926-1260

HELP WANTED

WORK FROM HOME

Great opportunity to manage your own business from home. No experience needed, no computer necessary. Huge potential to grow big. Call: 438.529.1216

WORK FROM HOME

Let your extra time bring you some extra cash. You’ll absolutely enjoy it and feel fulfilled! For more about this wonderful business and how it works Call 845-920-ALOE (2563) Hatzlucha!

EXPERIENCED SALESPERSON

For Electrical & lighting supplies co. No car necessary, commission only. Top $$ paid, male or female, work from home, partnership opportunities available. Call: 212.662.1300

SEIT P3

Excellent SEIT P3 opening in Williamsburg full time, excellent pay potential. Email: scaplan@yeled.org Or call: 917.968.2292

PART-TIME - $100K+

Hiring experienced recruiters! With a clear path to earn $100k+ while working part-time. in-office only. Email resume to TopCareerNY@gmail.com

GREAT OPPORTUNITY

Have HR/recruiting experience? Earn $65K+ part-time! Email ProRecruiterNY@gmail.com to apply.

makeup artist for all your special occasions. Call: Yides Neuwirth 917.309.6000 718.858.0815

VAN FOR RENT

Refrigerated van for rent daily or weekly with or without a driver. Call or Text: Eli 516.270.6755

We

hiring

Open Roles

Banking Services Representative

After 28 years of powering possibilities for businesses and institutions worldwide, Fidelity under a new name: Sola. As one of the largest electronic payment providers in North America, Sola offers advanced processing tools for business owners across all channels — in-person, online, and mobile. We deliver customizable end-to-end technology solutions across various business verticals, bridging connections in the global marketplace.

LOCATIONS

Brooklyn Navy Yard, Brooklyn, NY 141 Flushing Ave, Suite 501, 11205 Howell, NJ 465 Oak Glen Rd, 07731 Boro Park, Brooklyn, NY 4013 13th Ave, 11218

Chani Saks

P (718) 782-2823 x426

•

Williamsburg/Boro Park Office Location

• Handle all account transactions such as rate updates, information changes and closing accounts.

• Pricing Analysis Representative Williamsburg Office Location

• About us Excellent telephone, interpersonal and verbal communication skills.

• Strong problem-solving and negotiation skills; handle difficult calls, identify & resolve/escalate complex problems.

E csaks@solapayments.com

For more information or to apply, send your resume to: Visit us at solapayments.com

• Analyze financial income, profit & loss statements from financial funding institutions

• Provide a detailed profit & loss analysis from the statements

• Meticulous attention to detail needed to provide an accurate data analysis and excellent mathematical analysis and application skills required to crunch the numbers

Deployments Representative Williamsburg Office Location

• Work with our inventory management system to deploy and fulfill accounts/equipment and orders

Set up & Troubleshoot and rectify issues to ensure complete customer satisfaction

• Must be able to communicate clearly and efficiently both over the phone and in writing

Must be able to work independently with minimal supervision using pre-set company policies, procedures, and standards as well as contractual agreements as guidelines for interaction and activity

CLASSIFIEDS

PROFESSIONAL COACH

Heal your life. Heal your body. Heal your past. Experienced. Successful. Personable. Expertise in anxiety, panic and trauma. Mrs. Esty Frank 7188518636

SELL YOUR BUSINESS

Sell your business for top dollar - $0 upfront fees. Call/Text/WA 732-800-7633 Office@ SwiftScquisitionsGroup.com

PROFESSIONAL RESUMES

That Get You Hired. Job Placement Assistance

Included. Email: Info@ SwiftStaffingGroup.com

PHOTO EDITING

Professional photo editing, many years of experience. Special rates for photographers. Also specializing in Custom photo albums Chosson, wedding, etc. Photo Dreams 347.563.5153

CUSTOM PHOTO ALBUMS

Specializing in Custom Photo Albums, Chosson, Wedding, etc. Also professional Photo Editing, many years of experience. Special rate for photographers. Photo Dreams 347.563.5153

WHOLESALE FISH

Buy by the case & save. Baby & Regular Salmon. Hashgucha Volove Rav. Free delivery to your home. Call Eli: 516.270.6755

WHOLESALE SPOTLIGHTS

We sell Spotlights, twice as bright for half the price. We also sell Smoke & Carbon Monoxide detectors with 10 year battery suitable for Section 8. Free Delivery. Call: 718.951.0061

VAN SERVICE

Yossi`s Van Service, 15 Passenger van, Local & long distance, Airports & delivery. Call: 718.962.4664

AYIN HORAH

The renowned Rebetzin Aidel Miller from Yerushalayim Is always available to remove Ayin Horah over the phone. Call: 718.689.1902 or 516.300.1490

GARTLECH

We fix knitted & crochet Gartlech & make beautiful professional fringes. We also teach how to knit & crochet. Please call: 917-414-3281

GARTLECH

Beautiful HANDMADE

GARTLECH, Hand crochet, Hand knit, Silks & more with beautiful Gartel bag. Text or call: 718.283.4589 Wholesale orders available.

CONSTRUCTION

Bathrooms, kitchens, closets, decks, extensions, additions, Basements, all electrical, plumbing, Carpentry. Lowest prices, fastest service. Call:718.951.0090

FURNITURE REPAIRS

Cabinet & General Repairs, specializing in ChosonKallah Apt. Call: 718.633.6231

ELECTRICIAN

All Electrical work, outlets, switches, fixtures, new lines for washer/dryer or air conditions, shabbos clocks, circut breakers. Call:718.951.0090

HANDYMAN & PAINTING

Experienced & Reliable handyman. Small jobs our specialty! Plumbing, Electric, construction, Locksmith, painting, plastering. Shabbos clocks, outlets/switches, call: 347.275.5408

GOITA SHADCHUNIS HOTLINE

Are you looking to place your cleaning lady or are you in need of one? Call the Goita Shadchunis Hotline free of charge 716-623-4762

Scottsdale AZ- 12821 N67th St. HOUSE FOR SALE

$1,599,000

4 Beds,3 Bath, Pool, Beautiful Secluded Garden Short walk to Shuls/Mikvahs Call Esther Bronsteyn 602 570 6575 esther@eandgrealestate.com

CLASSIFIEDS

NEW WEBSITE?

Get your new beautiful website done hassle free! Affordable pricing! Satisfaction guaranteed! Email: sales@ stratadigitalgroup.com

REMOVE EYIN HORA

A baby, a simcha, a new lease in town? Call Ayin BeAyin so things dont chalila go down! Call Today 718-400-AYIN (2946) www. ayinbeayin.com

KITCHEN

Kitchen cabinet hinges, tracks, drawer boxes, garbage pull outs replaced at reasonable prices. Call Mr. Likht 917-817-6981

EXPERT TRANSFORMATION COACH

Break free and rise! Transform stuck patterns, deepen your connections, and unlock the power within. Your new life begins now—let’s create it together. Brocha 917.456.4493

CANARY VOICE BY BLAU STUDIOS

Small group, big confidence!

Sunday voice lessons in a bright new studio where your daughter grows skills, shines, and records her own song in a fun, supportive space. Brocha 917.456.4493

ODDS & ENDS

GOITA SHADCHUNIS

HOTLINE

Are you looking to place your cleaning lady or are you in need of one? Call the Goita Shadchunis Hotline free of charge 716-623-4762

GEMACHIM

Breastpump Gemach 718599-0721

Lights for your simchas. Minimal fee 718-854-2404

Twin carriage 718-522-3891

“the organizer” 917-232-8614

GOWNS

GOWNS

Introducing for the first time in Williamsburg!

New designer gowns & brand name Simcha wear at great prices. We are also offering designer fashion & timeless pieces that redefine elegance, in our beautiful luxurios salon located conveniently on Kent Ave. Ready sis of bride & groom

& Mechitaniste gown for fabulous prices. Please join us & elevate your style. For an appointment 347-7018061

FOUND

Red & Cream knit striped sweater Bedford /Penn 347243-1889

Silver עקשופ

about 10-15 years ago please call / text 347-578-0203

Tennis necklace first night RH on Marcy 718-501-4177 keys for car 718-387-5692

Sheitel hat 347-661-7654

gartel Harrison corner Hooper 718-404-3243

Bag with cash & car service business card at 100 Skillman bsmt apt 718-782-9144

Red & Cream knit striped little girls cardigan Bedford / Penn 347-243-1889

baby pink slipper/shoe Rosh Hashanah night by Flushing & Tompkins 929-420-1014

Advetising Leaders in

Not a typo. A strategy.

A riveting tale of unwavering avodas Hashem, The Chossid From Cologne takes readers on a journey around the globe –from Nazi Germany to Australian internment camps, and ultimately the United States. Get a glimpse into rare letters sent from the eye of the inferno, as well as little-known Holocaust details as witnessed by a tzaddik whose humility and kedushah impacted everyone around him.

Bay Parkway between East 3rd Street and McDonald Avenue: Outside lane only (cemetery side)

Bay Parkway between McDonald Avenue and 57th Street: Outside lanes in both directions

20th Avenue between 54th and 57th Streets: Travel lanes in both directions (not parking lanes or sidewalk)

Ocean Parkway between Avenue J and Avenue L: Southbound service lane

McDonald Avenue between 20th Street and Fort Hamilton Parkway: Both driving lanes along the cemetery (not parking lane)

Fort Hamilton Parkway between McDonald Avenue and 37th Street: Both lanes

ןטלאהעגפא זיא ךאוו ענעפאלראפ יד

עשימייה יד ןשיווצ גנוציז א ןראוועג יד טימ גרובסמאיליוו ןיא סעיצאזינאגרא

וצ גנוטיירבראפעב ןיא טפאשרעריפ ייצילאפ

וצ ,םולשל וניתארקל םיאבה םיבוט םימי יד

טיבעג ןיא תולדתשה עטסעב יד ןרעכיזראפ

גנוציז רעד .געט יד סיואכרוד טייהרעכיז ןופ

ייצילאפ םעד ךרוד ןראוועג טריפעג זיא

וינ יד ןופ ריציפא גנידנעמאק רעד ,ףעש אראב לארטאפ טנעמטראפעד ייצילאפ קראי

יד טנעכערעגניירא טאה ןוא ,טראנ ןילקורב ,הלצה ,םירמוש יוו סעיצאזינאגרא עשימייה

WJCC יד ןופ רעריפ יטינוימאק ןוא ,םירבח .UJO יד ןוא

טריסוקסיד זיא גנוציז רעד ייב

רעמ ןטלאה לאז ייצילאפ יד ואוו ןראוועג

יד ,בוט םוי םעד ןופ ףיול ןיא טייקמאזכאוו לוח ןוא בוט םוי ברע יד ןיא סולפ קיפארט

דובכל ןעגנורינידראאק

יד ףיוא עדנזייר יד ןוא סראק

טייג העש רעפ ליימ 15 ןופ טימיל דיפס רעד

רעדנעל עשיאעפארייא עגילאצליפ

רעבא טייטש ץעזעג גנורילאטסניא סנעיילפא רעד

טאה ליסנואק יטיס קראי וינ יד

רעטנוא גאלשראפ א טמיטשאב

רעזייה ןרעוו טיובעג טעוו’ס ןכלעוו

יטיס רעד סיואכרוד רעלעטיפש ןיא

עטריצילפמאק טימ ןשטנעמ ראפ גאלשראפ רעד .ןכיורבעג עשיניצידעמ

ןזייה 83 ןעיוב וצ ןאלפ א ןיירא טמענ

ןייז ןלעוו 58 עכלעוו ןופ ,לכה ךס ןיא

ןשטנעמ ראפ רעזייה עטנענאמרעפ

ןופ ןראוועג טזאלעגסיורא ןענעז עכלעוו

ייז רעבא ,ןימרעט א ןעניד ן’כאנ עמרוט

עטריצילפמאק ןופ ךיורבעג ןיא ןענעז ערעדנא יד ןוא ,טכיזפיוא עשיניצידעמ

רעזייה לבעדראפא ןייז ןלעוו רעזייה 24 יטיס-קראי-וינ יד ךרוד טלעטשעגוצ

גניזואה יד .םארגארפ טקענאק-גניזואה עטריצילפמאק טימ ןשטנעמ ראפ

טימ ןעמוק טעוו ןכיורבעג עשיניצידעמ

םעד ןטכאבאאב טעוו סאוו טייהרעכיז א ןוא סיוורעס עלאיצאס ,סקעלפמאק

םעד ןופ העש 24 ראפ דנזעוונא באטש .ךאוו א געט 7 ןוא גאט

יטיס יד ךרוד טגיטעטשאב ןאלפ רעד

עכלעוו ןשטנעמ עכלעזא טליצ ליסנואק

עטריצילפמאק עשינארכ ןופ ןדייל

ייז סאוו ,ןכיורבעג עשיניצידעמ

רעד ךילנעוועג זיא ןגיסעלכאנראפ

ןייגאב רעדיוו ןלאז ןשטנעמ יד זא םרוג

םעד ןיא רעזייה לאצ יד .סנכערבראפ ,לאצ ןיא ןיילק ראג רעבא זיא טקעיארפ

ןזומ דנאנאכאנ יטיס יד טעוו ךיוא יוו דלאביוו גנוטכיר םעד ןיא רעטלעג ןסילפ .טקעיארפ רעראבטסאק א ראג זיא סאד יד טאה טייצ רעבלעז רעד ןיא א טגיטעטשאב ךיוא ליסנואק יטיס םעד ןרעטיירבסיוא טעוו סאוו ץעזעג ”טנעמסאראה טנאנעט” ןופ טיידאב עכילצעזעגמוא ןא ךיוא ןטלאהטנא וצ ןבאה טעוו

סניווק ןופ רזעיחא .עדנזייר

םירבח גרובסמאיליוו

ןטנאקיטילאפ טימ

וצ קארט א טלעטשעגוצ טאה

םוצ

רוחב רשא רשא רוחב וןב

Yoel Itzkowitz COO

Shaya Teitelbaum

EDITOR IN CHIEF

Esther Malky Neiman

ASSOCIATE EDITOR

Zivi Reischer

MANAGING EDITOR

Libby Tescher

FOOD EDITOR

M.P. Wercberger

CREATIVE DIRECTOR AJ Wachsman

PROJECT COORDINATOR

R. Itzkowitz

Monsey 20 Robert Pitt Dr.

Lakewood 939 River Ave.