CHABAD OF RIVERDALE'S - Pro-Found Software, Inc.

CHABAD OF RIVERDALE’S 

20 th ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATION 

Honoring 

ILENE & NEIL MARGARET & VICKY & 

LEIBOWITZ MAYER FRIED RAPHAEL NADEL 

Guests of Honor Keepers of the Flame Parents of the Year 

MINDA & MICHAEL ABIDOR 

SUSAN & WILLIAM ABRAMSON 

MIRIAM & DR. ROBERT FELDMAN 

DEBBIE & STEVE FEUERSTEIN 

GEORGANNE & JAMES GARFINKEL 

DEVORIE & RICHARD GOLDHAIR 

MARILYN SOPHER • GAIL & DR. JUDAH SCHORR 

Honorary Chairs 

MYRNA & ERIC ZINN | SHAINA & EZRA HOUSE | RACHEL & DR. ROBERT JETTER 

Dinner Chairs 

DR. BETH & PETER KOLEVZON | BRENDA & STEVEN ARENSON | DR. ALESSANDRA & RICHARD LIPKIN 

Journal Chairs 

D I N N E R C O M M I T T E E 

RABBI LEVI Y. & SORAH SHEMTOV Emissaries of the Lubavitcher Rebbe 

HELENA & MARVIN GOLDSTEIN 

SHARON & HERB HIRSCH 

TOVA & DR. DANIEL KAPLAN 

SHARON & DR. MICHAEL KAPLOWITZ 

EVA & PETER KELLNER 

DEBBIE & MENDY MEREL 

PEARL & CHARLES MOERDLER 

CHANI & DANIEL OSHINSKY 

JANET & DR. ALAN ROSENTHAL 

DEBBIE & DAVID SABLE 

MINDY & RABBI YISROEL SHEMTOV 

BARBARA SOPHER & DANNY HARELICK 

C H A B A D L U B A V I T C H O F R I V E R D A L E 

1 9 9 2 - 2 0 1 2 | 5 7 5 2 - 5 7 7 2

2 

T H E F U T U R E O F Revering 

RABBI MENACHEM M. SCHNEERSON, O.B.M. 

His depth of wisdom, 

knowledge and 

understanding is an 

ongoing source of 

spiritual and moral 

sustenance for 

all people. 

His belief in 

compassion for each 

individual illuminates 

the world with 

loving kindness. 

C H A B A D L U B A V I T C H O F R I V E R D A L E

The Lubavitcher 

REBBE 

The Lubavitcher Rebbe, Rabbi Menachem M. Schneerson, of blessed memory, was a great 

advocate of education – not only for the Jewish community, but for society as a whole. He 

took a special interest in all people and sought to enhance the universal quality of life 

through advocacy of the seven Noahide laws. Indeed, the Rebbe’s birthday was officially recognized 

in the United States as well as several other countries as a “Day of Education and 

Sharing.” He was the first religious leader to receive a Congressional Medal of Honor and 

the first to receive it posthumously. 

Through his singular vision of bringing G-d’s creation to perfection through goodness and 

kindness, the Rebbe dramatically altered the global Jewish landscape. The effects of his life’s 

work continue to grow exponentially through the shluchim, his personal emissaries who 

spread his message throughout the world. 

The Rebbe had boundless faith in each individual, enabling him to recognize the potential 

for new and revitalized life where others had abandoned all hope. The Rebbe would relentlessly 

fan the embers of Jewish observance in the Soviet Union during the darkest decades 

of Communist oppression. When the Iron Curtain fell, the world was astonished to learn 

of the existence of a network of Jewish schools, synagogues and mikvahs – a network which 

served as the basis for renewed Jewish life in the former Eastern Bloc countries. 

The Rebbe inspired countless people to make tzedakah a part of daily life. Through his 

shluchim and the hundreds of thousands he touched throughout the world, his message 

today reaches the farthest corners of the globe. Thanks to him, we are all active participants 

in the perfection of G-d’s world, because we were empowered by the Rebbe as only a child 

can be empowered by a loving and wise parent. 

May the Rebbe’s purpose to bring about ultimate Redemption be realized speedily and in 

our days. 

2 0 T H A N N I V E R S A R Y C E L E B R A T I O N 3

4 


FROM THE DESK OF 

PRESIDENT BARAK OBAMA 


6 


SENATOR CHARLES E. SCHUMER 


FROM THE DESK OF MEMBER 

OF CONGRESS ELIOT L. ENGEL 


8 


MAYOR MICHAEL BLOOMBERG 


FROM THE DESK OF BRONX BOROUGH 

PRESIDENT RUBEN DIAZ 


1 0 

FROM THE DESK OF MEMBER 

OF ASSEMBLY JEFFREY DINOWITZ 



COUNCIL MEMBER G. OLIVER KOPPELL 


12 

Rabbi Levi & Sorah 

SHEMTOV 

Dear Friends, 

We are all familiar with the expression “a crowning 

achievement.” It means a great accomplishment, a lifetime 

goal realized, or a dream come true. 

Tonight, my dear friends, is a crowning achievement 

for Chabad of Riverdale, as we celebrate our 20th 

anniversary dinner and 20 years of service to our 

community. 

By Divine Providence, tonight is also the 20th day of 

the Hebrew month of Tevet. A real double header. 

The number 20 and the word ‘crown’ will figure prominently 

in this letter, as you will see. But first, I want to 

share a bit of mysticism. 

The number 20 is a significant one in Kabbalastic 

teachings. In Hebrew, the word for the number twenty 

is ‘esrim’ and if you add up the numerology of the letters 

in esrim you get 620 – the same number as the word for crown, keter. 

It also turns out that there are exactly 620 letters in the Ten Commandments, the Torah, by which 

the Almighty crowned the Jewish nation! 

We know that there are no coincidences in life. Everything is Divinely ordained and so this evening 

reflects both a spiritual and a physical crowning. 

We have recently initiated several new projects in our crown jewel, our educational programs: These 

include a Bat Mitzvah Club for girls, a Released Time program for public school students, a 

Beginners Learning Service and expanded Pre-teen Groups during Shabbat services. 

We are particularly proud to announce that only two months ago, we began a Sunday morning Kollel, 

an intensive, interactive learning program for men and women, which is taught by five rabbis. The 

inaugural session was attended by over 50 people and is off to a resoundingly successful start. 

I am happy to report that these new programs are all winners and together with our existing services, 

we have been, thank G-d, crowned with accomplishment and satisfaction. 


As in recent years, I would like to share with you just one story, out of many, that warmed our 

hearts at Chabad of Riverdale. 

Almost 20 years ago (there’s that number again), a baby boy named Daniel was born in the Bronx. A 

great uncle of the baby called me to arrange for a Bris, but warned me that the mother of the child 

was against it. I promised to do what I could, but after much research I realized that no one can force 

a mother to circumcise her son against her will. There was nothing we could do. 

Fast forward several years later. Daniel was removed from his parent’s home and put into foster care. 

I received a call from Daniel’s father stating that since the mother was out of the picture, a Bris could 

now be arranged. 

I made some inquiries into this new situation and ended up organizing a Bris at Methodist Hospital in 

Brooklyn, with a Mohel performing the circumcision. This made it Halachically viable while also 

obeying the strictures of the foster care organization. To this day, I’ll never forget what Daniel said to 

me as he began to come out of the anesthesia. 

“Rabbi, did I have it, did I have my Bris yet?” he asked. When I answered in the affirmative, that 

brave boy let out a big sigh of relief. “Oh thank G-d. I feel like a huge brick has been lifted from my 

shoulders” and he began to cry. We all cried with him, in joy and thanksgiving. Daniel is now in his 

20th year (!) and is studying in Israel. 

My dear friends, Chabad of Riverdale continues to make a difference in the lives of so many. But, we 

don’t do it alone. We do it together with you, our cherished friends and supporters. 

You are the ‘crowns on our heads’ and we thank you from the bottom of our hearts for your continued 

support. 

Our honorees tonight are outstanding examples of giving, caring and making our world just a little 

better every day. We are honored to honor them. 

Ilene and Neil Leibowitz, Margaret and Mayer Fried and Vicky and Raphael Nadel, we salute you. 

We pray that you have much nachas from your families and all the blessings of health, wealth, love 

and spiritual fulfillment. 

Let us say L’Chaim together. Am Yisroel Chai! 

Rabbi Levi and Sorah Shemtov 


14 

W H AT I S 

Chabad Lubavitch is a philosophy, 

a movement, and an organization. 

It is considered to be the most 

dynamic force in Jewish life today. 

P H I L O S O P H Y 

Chabad Lubavitch 

The word “Chabad” is a Hebrew acronym for three 

intellectual faculties: Chachmah – wisdom; Binah – 

comprehension, and Da’at - knowledge. The movement’s 

system of Jewish religious philosophy, the deepest 

dimension of G-d’s Torah, teaches understanding and 

recognition of the Creator, the role and purpose of creation, 

and the importance and unique mission of each created thing. 

This philosophy guides a person to refine and govern his or 

her every act and feeling through wisdom, comprehension 

and knowledge. 

“Lubavitch” is the name of the town in White Russia where 

the movement was based for more than a century. 

Appropriately, the word Lubavitch in Russian means “city of 

brotherly love.” The name Lubavitch conveys the essence of 

the responsibility and love engendered by the Chabad 

philosophy toward every single Jew. 

1992 

Dreidel House: 

Olive Oil Press & 

Menorah Crafts 

Tu B’ Shevat: 

Talking Tree 

Chabad opens 

office in Riverdale 

Purim with 

The Piamentas 

C H A B A D L U B A V I T C H O F R I V E R D A L E T I M E L I N E 

1993 

Matzah Factory 

Sorah Shemtov starts 

Women’s Tanya classes 

1994 

High Holiday Services 

at the Century 

Jewish Art Calendar 

Shofar Factory 

Riverdale Jewish Forum 

1995 

Sukkah Mobil 

Chabad organizes 

tribute to the Rebbe at 

RJC, over 400 attend 

Chanukah Menorah 

Lighting at The 

Monument 

Farbrengen Magazine 

Monthly Farbrengens 


1996 

Rabbi Levi Shemtov 

teaches weekly at 

Kinneret Day School 

Purchase of the 

Chabad Center 

535 West 246th Street 

Challah Baking classes 

Purimania at P.S. 24 


1997 

Outreach to Jewish 

elderly in nursing 

homes 

Conducting Home 

Kashering 

Lag B’ Omer 

Community Picnic 

Shavuos Ice Cream 

Party at P.S. 24 

M OV E M E N T 

Following its inception 250 years ago, the Chabad Lubavitch 

movement — a branch of Chasidism — swept through 

Russia and spread to surrounding countries as well. It 

provided scholars with answers that had eluded them and 

simple farmers with a love for G-d and His Torah that had 

been denied to them. Eventually the philosophy of Chabad 

Lubavitch and its adherents reached almost every corner of 

the world and affected almost every facet of Jewish life. 

L E A D E R S H I P 

The movement is guided by the teachings of its seven 

leaders (“Rebbes”), beginning with Rabbi Schneur Zalman of 

Liadi, (1745-1812), O.B.M. These leaders expounded upon 

the most refined and delicate aspects of Jewish mysticism, 

creating a corpus of study thousands of books strong. They 

personified the age-old biblical qualities of piety and 

leadership. They concerned themselves not only with 

Chabad Lubavitch, but with the totality of Jewish life, both 

spiritual and physical. No person or detail was too small or 

insignificant for their love and dedication. In our generation, 

the Lubavitcher Rebbe, Rabbi Menachem Mendel 

Schneerson (1902-1994), known simply as “the Rebbe,” 

guided post-Holocaust Jewry affected by the ravages of that 

devastation. 

1998 

Women’s Night Out 

Chabad Rabbi 

becomes Chaplain in 

local nursing homes 

Toys for Hospitalized 

Children 

1999 

Jewish Women 

Throughout the Ages 

Opening of The 

Riverdale Jewish 

Lending Library for 

Children and Adults 


16 

W H AT I S 

O R G A N I Z AT I O N 

The origins of today’s Chabad Lubavitch organization can be 

traced to the early 1940s, when the sixth Lubavitcher Rebbe, 

Rabbi Yosef Yitzchak Schneerson (1880-1950), appointed his 

son-in-law and later successor, Rabbi Menachem Mendel 

Schneerson, to head the newly founded educational and 

social service arms of the movement. Motivated by his 

profound love for every Jew and spurred by his boundless 

optimism and self-sacrifice, the Rebbe set into motion a 

dazzling array of programs, services and institutions to serve 

every Jew. Today, 4,000 full-time emissary families apply 250 

year old principles and philosophy to direct more than 3,300 

institutions (and a workforce that numbers in the tens of 

thousands) dedicated to the welfare of Jewish people 

worldwide. 

CHABAD LUBAVITCH OF RIVERDALE 

2000 

Camp Gan Israel at 

P.S. 24 

Chabad opens 

Synagogue 

Rabbi & Mrs. Yehuda 

Balachov become a 

full-time Chabad 

couple for the 

Russian Community 

in Kingsbridge 


Nineteen years ago, with the blessings and guidance of the 

Lubavitcher Rebbe, O.B.M., Rabbi Levi and Sorah Shemtov 

were given the opportunity to serve the spiritual needs of the 

Riverdale Jewish community and the borough of the Bronx. 

Although there were already established day schools, 

organizations and synagogues addressing the needs of the 


2001 

Early Learning Center 

Mommy & Me 

Library Programs: 

Storytime, Video 

Hour, Judaic Crafts 

Chabad Rabbis 

become Chaplains at 

Allan Pavilion of 

Columbia Presbyterian 

2002 

Sorah Shemtov 

begins Woman’s 

Torah Portion Class 


at Kittay House 

(across VA Hospital) 

Chabad Sukkah offers 

holiday meals to the 

community 

2003 

Tefillin Club 

Holiday Expos 

Lag B’Omer Bonfire 

For Teens 

Chabad’s first 

Annual Dinner 


2004 


At Montefiore 

Medical Center 

Lewish Learning 

Institute 

Rabbi Yitzchok 

Dubov joins 

Chabad as Director 

of Special Projects 


2005 

Rabbi & Tamar 

Teitelbaum become 

full-time shluchim at 

Chabad of Einstein 

Rabbi Shlomie 

Tenenbaum joins 

Administration 

at Chabad 

affiliated Jewish community, there was a need to reach out 

to an overwhelming portion of the Jewish population that 

was uncommitted and under-affiliated. 

Rabbi Levi and Sorah arrived with an agenda of unconditional 

love for every Jew, to assist and infuse the community with 

the exciting programming and Jewish experience that have 

become synonymous with this vital international organization. 

With innovative programming like Purimania, the Matzah 

Factory, The Giant Menorah Lighting, a community lecture 

series, Shabbaton's, children’s holiday workshops, Camp Gan 

Israel, and the Early Learning Center, Chabad Lubavitch of 

Riverdale has quickly become a household name, positively 

and permanently enhancing the landscape of the Jewish 

experience in Riverdale. 

In 2000, Rabbi Yehuda and Bracha Balachov joined forces 

with Chabad Lubavitch of Riverdale by directing the branch of 

Chabad Lubavitch in Kingsbridge. They arrange Passover 

Seders, High Holiday services, Chanukah parties and Purim 

celebrations specially for the Russian community. 

Rabbi Balachov officiates at Shabbat services at the 

Kingsbridge Center of Israel every Shabbat, and gives classes 

in a range of Jewish topics. The Balashovs have touched the 

2006 

Shabbatons with 

Scholars in Residence 

include: Yossi 

Jacobson, Simon 

Jacobson, Laibel Wolf 

Rivkah Slonim, 

Shimona Tzukernik 

Mayor Michael 

Bloomberg lights the 

new Giant Menorah 

at the monument 

2007 

Kids Magazine 

publishes 3 

times a year 

Toys for Hospitalized 

Children expands to 

shelters in the Bronx 


18 

W H AT I S 

2008 

Chabad builds an 

ice menorah at the 

monument 

Richard Lipkin & 

Sam Harbnoff O.B.M. 

open the Sam 

Harbnoff Foundation 

to assist Jewish 

children in attending 

Camp Gan Israel 


lives of hundreds of Jewish souls. It is likely that that there is 

not one Russian Jew in the Riverdale-Kingsbridge area that 

has not had direct contact with the Balachovs. 

In 2005, Rabbi Zalman and Tamar Teitelbaum joined Chabad 

of Riverdale with the support of the George and Pamela Rohr 

Foundation, directing the Chabad center of the medical 

community servicing The Albert Einstein College of Medicine 

as well as the Ferkauf School of Psychology and other 

universities in the area. 

Their Chabad student center is a true home away from home 

for hundreds of Jewish students from all walks of life who 

join the Teitelbaums for Friday night dinner, lunch ‘n’ learn, 

weekly picnics in the spring and summer, and other events. 

Overall, Chabad Lubavitch of Riverdale has become very 

much a part of the Jewish growth and enthusiasm now 

setting our entire community abuzz. Though our multitude of 

educational and outreach programs give us much to be proud 

of, we can never rest. Indeed, we are ready for the next step 

- we are looking forward to increasing the size and scope of 

our programming in an unprecedented manner, charged by 

our mission that no Jew be left without a positive Jewish 

experience. 


2009 

Afterschool Preschool 

Release Time Program 

Purim Project – 

everyone in the 

community 

participates in giving 

Purim baskets 

2010 

Bat Mitzvah club at 

Kinneret Day School 

201 

Sunday Morning 

Kollel 


CHILDREN’S 

PROGRAMS 


Early Learning Center 

Mommy & Me 

Shofar Factory 

Olive Oil Press 

Menorah Crafting 

Matzoh Bakery 

Storytime 

Video Hour 

Holiday Expos 

Release Time 


Youth Library 

Toys For Hospitalized 

Children 

ADULT 

EDUCATION 

Individual & Group 

Study 

Jewish Forum Lectures 

Shabbatons 

Tefillin Club 

Farbrengen Magazine 

Jewish Women's Circle 

Challah Baking 


Adult Library 

Jewish Learning 

Institute 

Sunday Morning Kollel 

HOLIDAY 

SPECIALS 

Jewish Art Calendar 

High Holidays 

in 5 Locations 

Chanukah Menorah 

Lighting at the 

Monument 

Menorah Kit 

(Chanukah) 

Purimania 

Shemurah Matzoh 

(Passover) 

OTHER PROJECTS 

& PROGRAMS 

Crisis Intervention 

& Counseling 

Kashering Homes 

Chaplaincy in Local 

Hospitals & Nursing 

Homes 

The Chabad 

Shul Experience 

Outreach to Jewish 

Elderly in Non-Jewish 

Nursing Homes 

Full-time Rabbi for 

the Russian 

Community in 

Kingsbridge 

Chabad Student Center 

at Albert Einstein 


20 

G U E S T S O F H O N O R 

Ilene & Neil 

LEIBOWITZ 

Neil is from Queens NY. He received his B.A. 

in Business Administration at American 

University in Washington DC. His occupation 

is handbag design and marketing. Ilene is a 

physical therapist who grew up at the 

Amalgamated Houses in the Bronx. She 

attended SUNY College at Stonybrook and 

received her B.S. in Physical Therapy at NYU. 

Ilene currently treats private patients in the 

Riverdale area. Both Neil and Ilene are baalei 

teshuvah. 

Neil had travelled many times to China for 

work and eventually lived in Taipei, Taiwan. It 

was there, in 1996, that he first began to focus 

on his Jewish roots and values through his 

interactions with new religious friends and rabbis. Neil greatly respects the Israeli 

friends he met in Taipei: Yochai and Ruchama Shechter, Akiva Tor, and Alon Glick, 

who taught Neil Torah and Hebrew, as well as Rabbi Eli Hecht from Chabad in 

California, who put tefillin on Neil for the first time. Rabbi Mordechai Avtzon of 

Chabad in Hong Kong directed Neil back home with an understanding of the 

importance of Torah. In 1999, Neil returned to the US and rebuilt his life in 

Boynton Beach, Fl., where he was embraced by the family of Rabbi Sholom Ciment 

of Chabad. In 2003, Neil moved back to New York and was encouraged to stay on 

a religious path by Rabbi Ely Rosenzveig in New Rochelle. 

During these same years, Ilene was also increasing her knowledge of Judaism by 


attending weeky Torah classes taught by Rebbetzin Jungreis of Hineni , and later on 

with Rabbi Yitz and Rebbetzin Leah Greenman of Aish HaTorah, to whom she is 

eternally grateful. It was on Shabbat Shuvah when Ilene spent her first complete 

Shabbos at the Greenmans home and she has been keeping Shabbos ever since. In 

1998 Ilene attended Neve Yerushalayim, a women’s yeshiva in Israel, where she 

began her journey to Orthodox Judaism. Her first connection to Chabad was 

through Rabbi Simon Jacobson, attending many of his lectures and Shabbatons. 

In November 2003, Neil and Ilene had their first date in Riverdale, having met 

through a mutual friend, and a month later they spent their first Shabbos together 

at Chabad of Riverdale. In July 2004 they were married, and in September 2005 they 

moved here and became active participants at Chabad of Riverdale. Their daughter 

Riva was born in February 2008 and is now involved in Chabad’s Junior 

Congregation. Ilene and Neil are extraordinarily grateful to Hashem for all that He 

has given them and they thank the Shemtovs for being such a special presence in 

their lives, they are humbled to be the Guests of Honor on the 20th anniversary of 

Chabad of Riverdale. 


22 

K E E P E R S O F T H E F L A M E 

Margaret & Mayer 

FRIED 

Margaret and Mayer Fried have lived 

in Riverdale for 40 years, and they 

will be married 56 years this January 

17. Margaret works part-time for 

Loehmann’s and Mayer is retired, 

having previously worked in the fruit 

and vegetable business. 

They are both Holocaust survivors 

from Romania. Mayer survived the 

concentration camps at Auschwitz 

and Birkenau, and Margaret lived in 

hiding, in a cave with her mother for a year until the war ended. 

The Frieds started attending services at Chabad of Riverdale after it first opened its 

location on W. 246th Street. They love Chabad of Riverdale and feel that everyone is 

very nice to whoever comes in the door, no matter what level of religious observance. 

They have a daughter Esther, who is married to Jack Miller, and they have two grandchildren, 

Carly and Justin. 

It is appropriate that we are honoring the Frieds as "Keepers of the Flame" since they 

have witnessed the growth of Chabad of Riverdale over the years, and we wish them 

many more years of participating in Chabad of Riverdale's growth. 


P A R E N T S O F T H E Y E A R 

Vicky & Raphael 

NADEL 

Vicky & Raphael Nadel are the proud parents 

of Estie, 5, Yael, 3.5, and Coby, 2. Vicky & 

Raphael met on the Upper West Side of 

Manhattan in 2002, and got married 2 years 

later. In 2005 they moved to Riverdale. 

Raphael is originally from Antwerp, Belgium, 

and Vicky grew up in Madison, Connecticut. 

Raphael studied at Bar Ilan University in 

Israel and now works in the technology 

industry specializing in home health care. 

Vicky graduated from both the University of 

Rochester and Sarah Lawrence College in 

Bronxville, New York. Currently, Vicky teaches English and Creative Writing at 

Hunter College in Manhattan. Vicky, a talented writer, has ghost written a young 

adult series about the dramatic lives of teenagers. 

Of the Nadels' three children, Estie has completed two years at Chabad’s Early Learning 

Center and is now in Kindergarten at Ben Porat Yosef in New Jersey; she has also 

attended day camp at Chabad’s Camp Gan Israel. Yael is in her second year at Chabad’s 

Early Learning Center, and Coby is entering the pre-school next year. Chabad provides 

an exciting, joyful and enthusiastic atmosphere for their children to learn about Torah 

and basic preschool skills. Their children are very happy there, and they have also seen 

the positive impact Chabad has had on the Riverdale community. 


24 

T H E F U T U R E O F 

H O L I D AY 

Programming 

HOLIDAY (hol·i·day) n. day free from work that one may 

spend at leisure, especially a day on which custom or law dictates 

a halting of general business activity to commemorate 

or celebrate a particular event. 

Whatever the motivations, whether it is grandparents, nostalgic 

guilt or curiosity, those who join Chabad Lubavitch of 

Riverdale’s programs gain a profound and renewed sense of 

their Judaism. Rabbi Levi and Sorah Shemtov infuse each holiday 

program with deep meaning, spiritual awareness, selfrefinement 

and best of all, the exultant joy associated with 

every celebration. From one holiday to the next, participants 

in Chabad Lubavitch of Riverdale’s holiday programs remember 

the triumph and majesty of past holidays. 

Through the Chabad house, the solemnity of Yom Kippur, the 

zaniness of Purim, each ritual and holiday mitzvah captures 

the imagination and provides the opportunity to transcend the 

coarseness of our everyday world with joy. Those who have 

stood in Chabad’s sukkah to shake the lulav and etrog know 

firsthand the power of each mitzvah to bind us to our Creator, 

and to all Jews everywhere and throughout time. 

Beyond rote and habit, Chabad’s holiday workshops inject 

each holiday with authentic experiences, to fortify and propel 

us and our families on life’s journey. Children especially learn 

best when they can see, feel, and most importantly, taste the 

Celebrating 


Holiday Programming 

The Jewish festivals 

are profoundly 

meaningful exercises 

in spiritual awareness, 

self-refinement 

and exultant joy... 

holidays. When children dip apples in honey, it makes the 

prayer for a sweet New Year more tangible to them. When 

children bite into the dry matzah that they themselves have 

baked in Chabad’s matzah factory, the harshness and cruelty 

of the slavery of our people in Egypt becomes real to them. 

When children make their own shofars at Chabad’s Shofar 

Factory or press their own olive oil for Chanukah, they create 

lasting memories and strong bonds to their ancestors, 

Judaism and their Creator. For 3,300 years, Jews and their 

children have celebrated together. At Chabad Lubavitch of 

Riverdale, this tradition continues with joy and reverence. 

The holidays are beacons of light interspersed throughout 

the year, each one intended to illuminate the rest of 

the Jewish ‘work year’ with its unique shade of spiritual 

light and inspiration. 


26 


E A R LY 

L E A R N I N G 

Center 

CHILDHOOD (child·hood) n. The early stage in the existence 

or development of a person. 

Jewish survival depends on our children and their commitment 

to the continuation of our tradition. Our children served 

as our guarantors when we received the Torah at Mount 

Sinai, and we depend on them just as dearly today. This is 

why Chabad Lubavitch of Riverdale places enormous emphasis 

on the education of our children. The start of any endeavor 

is a propitious time. The start of a Jewish child’s Jewish 

education may be the most pivotal event in the life of our 

community. 

Our children need to discover their magnificent Jewish 

heritage. Our Early Learning Center knows that children, 

especially young children, learn best through an experiential 

approach. Their classroom activities replace dry knowledge 

and soulless mechanics with activities and learning tasks that 

engage all of the physical senses, as well as the hearts and 

minds of their students. The warmth of our staff and classrooms 

connect each child with their innate desire to learn 

about and maintain Jewish observance. 

Each one of our students possesses a soul precious to 

the Jewish people, and talents and gifts to share with the 

world. At the Early Learning Center, the joyful Jewish heritage 

classes and recreational activities enable each child in 

Celebrating 


The Early Learning Center 

It is no secret 

that the key 

to Jewish survival 

has always been, 

and always will be, 

the instilling of 

Jewish values and 

ideals in our youth... 

their own way to develop the skills and commitment that will 

connect them now and throughout the rest of their lives to 

Judaism and the Jewish people. 

“Go back and tell them that they have a 

background. They are the children of 

Abraham, Isaac and Jacob, Sarah, Rebecca, 

Rachel and Leah.” 

— The Lubavitcher Rebbe, O.B.M. 


28 



Exploring 



C A M P 

Gan Israel 

Children in Riverdale enjoy many options for their summer 

vacations. Some of the very best camps are located right 

here, and there are buses that will transport them to over 30 

camps in Westchester, Rockland County and New Jersey. Is 

there really a need for another camp in Riverdale? 

The question is best answered by more than 800 campers 

who attended Camp Gan Israel in Riverdale over the last nine 

summers. 

Here is what one parent had to say: 

“My children go to Horace Mann, which is a really 

great school, but I wanted my daughter Hanna to have a 

positive, fun experience in a Jewish atmosphere, so I tried 

Camp Gan Israel, and her experience was amazing. 

She loved the activities, the swimming, horseback riding, 

the trips, etc., but above everything it was the relationship 

between the children and the counselors that brings the 

kids to camp summer after summer. Their enthusiasm 

and excitement is contagious. My daughter comes home 

from camp and doesn’t stop telling me, my husband and 

the whole family of her experience of that day of camp: 

karate, tennis, the Jewish songs, the Jewish games. 

My family has learned a lot about Judaism from camp via 

my daughter Hanna. Rabbi and Mrs. Shemtov formed a 

camp that does not compromise on all the professional 

sports and yet everything is in a loving, fun-filled Jewish 

atmosphere. This is something that does not exist 

anywhere in Riverdale or anywhere else that I know.” 

30 

Experiencing 



“I wanted my 

daughter to have a 

positive fun experience 

in a Jewish 

atmosphere, so I 

tried Camp Gan Israel, 

and her experience 

was amazing...” 


32 


C A M P G A N I Z Z Y2011 


34 


JEWISH 

WOMEN’S 

Circle 

For more than 3,000 years, Jewish women have played a 

major role in the survival and growth of the Jewish people. 

The Jewish Women’s Circle was designed to create a 

place where the Jewish women of Riverdale, regardless 

of background, education or affiliation, can acquire a 

deeper understanding and appreciation of their vital role 

in Judaism in a warm, accepting and non-judgmental 

environment. 

Our programs touch upon all areas of life, from educational to 

social and political. Among them are discussions about the 

traditions, laws, and customs of basic Jewish life. We delve 

into the significance of the marriage ceremony and discuss 

the traditional Jewish view of the husband-wife relationship. 

We have, and will continue to present exciting, in-depth 

studies of issues that are pertinent to the Jewish family, 

such as how to make the Jewish experience a positive one 

and how to cope with the challenges facing today’s youth. 

We have demonstrated how to make Jewish culinary delights 

with the full participation of all who are present, in a warm and 

relaxed atmosphere, where participants feel a sense of fun 

and camaraderie. 

Sharing 


Jewish Women’s Circle 

We have, and will 

continue to present 

exciting, in-depth 

studies of issues that 

are pertinent to the 

Jewish family... 


36 

Studying 


ADU LT 

Education 

If we are to truly integrate G-d into our lives in a meaningful 

and substantial way, we have to use our minds. ‘Being’ 

Jewish requires no effort, but ‘feeling’ Jewish takes focus 

and inner exercise. 

In this respect, Torah is the key to self-actualization, to realizing 

our purpose in life. Torah is our paradigm for living – the 

repository of insight into the human experience. 

Torah can be studied and experienced on myriad levels, from 

practical prescriptions for conduct and ritual to the esoteric 

concepts embodied therein. Every layer of appreciation and 

understanding serves as a prelude to the next. 

At Chabad Lubavitch of Riverdale, adult education courses 

range from Hebrew reading to Bible study, from Talmud to 

history, and from ethics to mysticism. 

Rebbetzin Sorah Shemtov teaches an in-depth class on the 

Torah portion of the week on Shabbat. Her class meets 

October through March at 12:15 p.m. and April through 

August at 6:15 p.m. This class is a great opportunity for all 

Jewish women to delve into the Torah portion on an intellectual 

and stimulating level. 


Adult Education 

This past fall, Chabad of Riverdale’s chapter of The Jewish 

Learning Institute kicked off the academic year with Rabbi 

Levi Y. Shemtov teaching Fascinating Facts: Exploring the 

Myths and Mysteries of Judaism. 

We strongly believe Jews should know about the richness of 

their Jewish heritage, and that is what we hoped to accomplish 

in Riverdale with this entertaining new educational offering. 

Spanning a wide range of intriguing subjects, Fascinating 

Facts addressed issues such as the Jewish view on Satan 

and the evil eye, whether angels have wings, and why pork is 

considered the quintessential non-kosher food. 

We designed this course as a fun and insightful overview of 

Jewish heritage to promote a Jewish cultural literacy within 

the community. We aimed to enlighten even the most seasoned 

trivia buffs with a treasure trove of "who knew?" 

Jewish factoids. 

The facts presented in the course touched on central ideas of 

faith, Jewish custom, and the commandments, leading students 

to an appreciation of even the “small” details and their 

ability to shine new light on the big picture of Jewish thought 

and practice. 

Each lesson encompassed a major theme that underlies the 

particular tidbits of knowledge presented within the lesson, 

providing students with a broad glimpse into many different 

aspects of Jewish culture, tradition, and observance. 

On Tuesday, January 24, the JLI Winter Semester begins 

with Money Matters: Jewish Business Ethics. Money 

Matters will present Judaism’s approach to practical economic 

dilemmas and monetary quandaries that we face daily in 

both our personal and professional lives. 


38 


The goal of this course is to provide a sensitive, fair, and 

unshakable economic paradigm grounded in 3,000 years of 

tradition and practical experience—an ancient yet fresh spin 

on how we view the ethics of money. 

Students will emerge from this course with the understanding 

that only a divine economic system can ensure unequivocal justice, 

while recognizing the virtue in each stakeholder’s position. 

Money Matters will show how the Torah’s sharply discerning 

yet holistic rulings inspire us with the confidence to confront 

any ethical economic dilemma. The course will be held on six 

Tuesdays, Jan 24 – Feb 28 at The Riverdale YM-YWHA. 

Our JLI Spring Semester takes place over the course of six 

Tuesdays, May 1 - Jun 5, at The Riverdale YM-YWHA. The 

series is called The Art of Marriage. 

In this course, students will examine areas of love and 

respect, intimacy and communication, and fidelity and 

domestic harmony. This six week course provides a practical 

and spiritual guide to making ones marriage more enriched 

and fulfilling. 

Studying 


Adult Education 

...Show how 

the Torah's 

sharply discerning 

yet holistic rulings 

inspire us with the 

confidence to 

confront any 

ethical economic 

dilemma. 


40 


C H A B A D 

L U B AV I T C H O F 

Einstein 

Chabad Lubavitch of Einstein serves the Albert Einstien 

College of Medicine, the Ferkauf School of Psychology, and 

other universities within the area, providing people with quality 

Jewish programs and services. 

This Chabad center functions as a home away from home for 

the medical students and also provides classes, lectures, 

social events, women’s clubs and Judaic enrichment for the 

students, residents and professors of the various institutions. 

Just finishing its sixth year, the center is a tremendous 

success, boasting 20-30 students at its weekly classes, 30-60 

attendees at its Shabbos meals, and hundreds of students at 

its social events held weekly throughout the year. 

Together, the Teitelbaums 

bring the Rebbe’s warmth and 

love to the students and the 

community around them. 

Studying 


RUSSIAN 

COMMUNITY IN 

Kingsbridge 

Under the leadership of Rabbi Yehuda and Bracha Balachov, 

Chabad Lubavitch of Riverdale’s Kingsbridge branch serves a 

growing community of Russian-speaking Jews with a 

broad range of programs, classes and services. 

Rabbi Balachov officiates at The Kingsbridge Center of Israel 

every Shabbat. They offer classes in Hebrew, Chumash, and 

the Torah portion of the week. There is a monthly Oneg 

Shabbat with a fully catered dinner. 

All holidays are celebrated in a manner that makes them 

accessible to Russian speakers. These include: High 

Holiday services; catered meals on Sukkot with live Chol 

Hamoed entertainment; Simchas Torah celebrations for families; 

Chanukah candle lighting and parties; a Tu b’Shvat Seder; 

Purim Megillah readings and special performances; two communal 

Passover Seders; and a Lag BaOmer celebration. 

The Kingsbridge branch also provides bar mitzvah classes, a 

Sunday morning beginners prayer service, a tefillin and 

mezuzah project, pastoral counseling, and a yahrtzeit program. 

The Kingsbridge branch also 

provides Bar Mitzvah classes, 

a Sunday morning beginners 

davening, a tefillin and mezuza 

project, pastoral counseling, 

and a Yahrtzeit program. 


42 


FAMILY 

Programming 

Contrary to popular opinion, Judaism’s main focus isn’t 

the synagogue: it’s the family. 

Judaism isn't just a religion; it's a way of life. It isn't something 

reserved only for a special place, like an exhibit in a 

museum. Its place is in the center of life: the home. 

With so many Jewish observances revolving around the 

home, the family becomes the natural nucleus of Jewish life. 

Community-oriented celebrations should be geared so that 

the entire family feels a sense of meaning and spiritual 

enrichment. Why set up barriers or make people feel 

estranged from their own heritage? Shabbat activites at 

Chabad Lubavitch of Riverdale offer a warm, rewarding experience 

for the entire family. 

Holiday celebrations are created so that adults and children, 

young and old, are able to find a sense of belonging, celebration 

and tradition. Our goal is to pique every individual’s 

interest and excitement. We bring out Judaism’s inner 

spark so that the holidays are a pleasure and a delight, a discovery 

of meaning and a celebration of our love for our fellow 

Jews, our tradition and our G-d. 

Nurturing 


Family Programming 

Judaism 

isn’t just a religion; 

it’s a way of life. 


44 


The Shul 

AT CHABAD 

LUBAVITCH 

OF RIVERDALE 

Chabad Lubavitch of Riverdale is founded on the principle that 

although Jews embrace many levels of observance in their 

personal lives, there should be a place for all Jews – no labels, 

no ‘affiliations’ – to develop a sense of community, to 

enhance the experience of being Jewish, to learn and to 

belong. 

The traditional prayer services are user-friendly for the average 

American Jew. There is no presumption of prior knowledge, 

no holier-than-thou attitude; just a deep conviction in 

the significance of the Jewish prayer experience. 

By focusing on the individual’s relationship with Judaism, 

Chabad appeals to all segments of the Jewish community. 

With its warm and welcoming attitude, Chabad can help 

you find your own Jewish center in your heart. 

Chabad Lubavitch of 

Riverdale is founded on the 

principle that there should be 

a place for all Jews... to 

enhance the experience 

of being Jewish... 

Praying 



46 


TIKUN 

Olam 

Judaism’s primary focus can be phrased as “Tikun Olam” 

– perfecting, healing and sanctifying an aching world. We 

want a better society, a more caring environment. We want 

an intrinsic goodness and benevolence, the world of 

Mashiach (Messiah). 

A fundamental part of this mission is helping those in need in 

any way we can. We don’t have the ability to cure the problems 

of the sick and infirm, but we can surely help. 

“Ahavat Yisrael,” unconditional love for our fellow man, 

and the willingness to act on it, is indeed a powerful 

balm for a soul in crisis. 

We make hospital visits to sick patients. In addition to frequent 

pastoral visits to senior citizen residences and nursing 

homes, we take groups of children to sing for the elderly during 

holiday times. Chabad volunteers bring the personal 

“Jewish” touch to lonely seniors, shut-ins and new 

immigrants at their homes. 

We bring not only words of greeting and comfort, but also the 

message that they are important and have not been forgotten. 

A community is, after all, like one large body. When one 

part is hurting, we all feel the pain. 

Our social services outreach program offers both counseling 

and religious assistance for all life cycle events such as baby 

naming, circumcision and funerals. 

Caring 


Tikun Olam 

A community is, after all, 

like one large body... 

when one part is hurting, 

we all feel the pain. 


48 

S T A F F 

With thanks and appreciation to our exceptional staff and teachers 

for their effort and devotion to bringing Chabad's warmth 

and love of Judaism to thousands of Jews. 


Director – 

Tsipy Weiss 

Teachers – 

Jessica Cohen 

Rivka Cowen 

PRE-SCHOOL STAFF 

Gitty Eisner 

Shifra Garber 

Batya Gartner 

Leah Gold 

Tzipporah Landsman 

Jordana Ross 

Ariella Roth 

Mushkie Vogel 

Psychologist – 

Alisa Auerback 

PROGRAMMING 

Release Time Teachers - Eli Abramowitz, 

Shmuel Naparstek, Avrohom Abba Wolosow, Moshe Zalman Shwarzberg 

Youth Programs & Bat Mitzvah Club – Fraidy Lefkowitz 

Camp Gan Israel Programming - Devorah Leah Sirota 

Mini Gan Camp Assistant Programming – Chaya Blachman 

Junior Congregation – Dina Klapper 

Special Projects – Rabbi Hershel Weiszner 

Pre-Bar Mitzvah Shabbat Group - Rabbi Eli Filer 

Beginner's Service - Rabbi Baruch Werdiger 


In gratitude and appreciation to our fellow emissaries, 

who direct our additional Bronx locations. 

Rabbi Levi & Sorah Shemtov 

RABBI ZALMAN & TAMAR TEITELBAUM 

Chabad of Einstein 

RABBI YEHUDA & BRACHA BALACHOV 

Chabad of Kingsbridge 

ADMINISTRATION 

Administrator – Rabbi Shlomie Tenenbaum 

Chief Development Officer - Michael Abidor 

Computer Consultant – William Frenkel 

Administrative Assistant – Pre-School – Andrea Hartman 

Administrative Assistant - Deborah Brody Administrative Assistant - Ellie Kumayama 

Maintenance – Marta Perez 

S T A F F 


50 

A Special Thanks 

to the Following: 

Benefactors 

HELENA AND MARVIN GOLDSTEIN 

RACHEL AND DR. ROBERT JETTER 

GAIL AND DR. JUDAH SCHORR 

MARILYN SOPHER 


Patrons 

BASSIE AND URI LABER 

CHANI AND STEVEN LAUFER 

CHARLES D’AMATO 

Sponsors 

BRYNA AND JOSHUA LANDES 

HANNAH LOWINGER AND DANIEL OSHINSKY 

Supporters 

CAPITAL ONE BANK 

CHUMI AND CHANAN FELDMAN 

MIRIAM & DR. MOSHE FELDMAN 

ILENE & NEIL LEIBOWITZ 

PEARL AND CHARLES MOERDLER 

VICKY & RAPHAEL NADEL 

DR. BETH AND PETER KOLEVZON 

AARON PLUM 

MOSES PODOLSKI 


Last week’s Parsha was 

Vayechi… 

and the rest is history. 

Here’s to our friends, 

Nissan & Yehudis Leibowitz 

Margaret & Mayer Fried 

Vicky & Raphael Nadel 

With love and admiration, 

Gail & Judah Schorr 

Platinum 

C H A B A D L U B A V I T C H O F R I V E R D A L E ’ S 

2 0 T H A N N I V E R S A R Y C E L E B R A T I O N

Mazal Tov 

to all of the Honorees 

We are grateful for Rabbi Levi and Sorah 

Shemtov for their hard work and devotion 

to the Riverdale Community. 

May they continue from strength to strength. 

MARILYN SOPHER, 

BARBARA SOPHER AND DANIEL HARELICK, 

JONATHAN AND AVIVA SOPHER, 

LISA SOPHER-DEUTSCH 

AND JEREMY DEUTSCH 

Platinum 



In honor of our dear friends 

Rabbi Levi and 

Rebbetzin Sorah Shemtov 

Mazel tov to Ilene & Neil Leibowitz 

who do so much for Chabad of 

Riverdale and Klal Yisroel! 

Mazel tov to Margaret & Mayer Fried. 

May you continue your good deeds 

Ad Me’ah V’esrim Shana! 

Mazel tov to the Parents of the Year: 


HELENA & MARVIN GOLDSTEIN & FAMILY 

Platinum 



Mazel Tov to 

all the Honorees. 

We applaud your dedication 

to such a worthy cause. 

Kol Hakavod to 

Rabbi Levi & Sorah Shemtov, 

the heart and soul 

of our shul. 

RACHEL, ROBERT, HANNAH & MOSES JETTER 

NAOMI JETTER-STEIN & GARY STEIN 

PEARL & HAROLD JETTER 

Gold 



Congratulations 

and Best Wishes 

To 


CHARLES A. DAMATO 

HERMAN GOLDMAN FOUNDATION 

Silver 



We are proud and honored to share 

this great milestonein the growth of 

Chabad of Riverdale! 

We salute your vision and leadership 

together with the community! 

Levi and Sorah, you are true role models to 

all your brothers and sisters! 

May you continue to spread the light of 

Torah and Chassidus for many years to come! 

May we merit shortly to peace in Israel with 

the coming of our righteous Moshiach! Amen! 

FONDLY, URI & BASSIE LABER AND FAMILY 

Silver 



MAZAL TOV & BEST WISHES 

TO THE MOST DESERVING HONOREES 

Ilene & Neil Leibowitz 

and 


Parents of the Year 


& 

In honor of Rabbi Levi and 

Sorah Shemtov and their team for 

outstanding work that makes 

Chabad of Riverdale a special place 

BRYNA & JOSHUA LANDES & FAMILY 

Bronze 



WE SALUTE 

THE REBBE’S SHLUCHIM 

OF RIVERDALE 

RABBI LEVI, SORAH, 

CHAYA MUSHKA, 

MENACHEM MENDEL 

& YOSEF 

Chanan, Chumi, 

Mashee, Chayale, Henee & Estee 

Bronze 



AARON PLUM INC. 

A family owned General Insurance Agency since 1949 

P E R S O N A L - C O M M E R C I A L – L I F E 

255 WEST 231ST STREET, BRONX, NY 

(718) 548-8400 

INFO@APLUMINSURANCE.COM 

Proud to be part of the 

Chabad Riverdale community! 

Bronze 



Mazel Tov and best wishes 

to the Honorees 

in honor of 

Rabbi Levi and 

Rebbetzin Sorah Shemtov 

For all their outstanding work 

that makes Chabad of Riverdale 

a special place 

CHARLES & PEARL MOERDLER 

Bronze 



Mazel Tov to Rabbi Levi 

and Sorah Shemtov 

For celebrating 20 years of 

Chabad in Riverdale. 

May your efforts be blessed with many 

more years of success. 

Your friend, 

D R . M I C H A E L B L O T N E R 

Bronze 



Mazel Tov 

to all the Honorees. 

Our continued thanks to 

Rabbi and Sorah Shemtov 

for everything they do 

on behalf of the 

Riverdale community. 

STEVEN, CHANI, SHOSHANA, 

ARI AND EREZ LAUFER 

Bronze 



In honor our friends, 

Vicky & Raphael Nadel, 

Parents of the Year, and all the other 

Honorees, and in honor of 

Rabbi & Rebbetzin Shemtov. 

With much appreciation, 

Chani & Daniel Oshinsky & Family 

Bronze 



To our dear friends and Honorees 

Yehudis & Nissan Leibowitz 

Guests of Honor 


Keepers of The Flame Award 

Vicky and Raphael Nadel 

Parents of The Year 

May Hashem bless you "twenty-fold" 

for your devotion and kindness. 

With appreciation & blessings, 

RABBI LEVI & SORAH SHEMTOV 

White 



MAZEL TOV 

to 

Ilene & Nissan Leibowitz 

And 


on your well deserved honors 

and 


on being named 

Parents of the Year 

ALL THE BEST, 

Rabbi Shlomie, Batya, Devorah, Mimi, 

Leah and Dov 

Tenenbaum 

White 



Mazel Tov to 

Nissan and Yehudis Leibowitz 

and to all of the honorees. 

Special thanks to 

Rabbi and Rebbetzin Shemtov 

for their 20 years of dedication. 

May you continue your great work 

for the community. 

The Balachov Family 

White 



B”H With gratitude to Hashem 

Yisborach on this momentous occasion 

Heartfelt Congratulations to Chabad on 

20 Years in Riverdale 

With blessings for our beloved Rabbi Levi and 

Rebbetzin Sorah Shemtov. 

They have dedicated themselves to the community 

with unconditional love and joy, without limit. 

And praise to all the Rabbis, staff, volunteers, and 

congregation who help achieve the mission. 

Mazal Tov! To our fellow honorees Margaret and 

Mayer Fried, Vicky and Raphael Nadel 

MAY WE ALL CONTINUE TO BE 

INSPIRED TO REACH AND FULFILL 

OUR POTENTIAL 

YEHUDIS, NISSAN, AND RIVA LEIBOWITZ 

White 



Congratulations to our Mom and Dad, 

also beloved grandparents 


May you continue to be a source of 

strength and inspiration to the entire 

Jewish community. 

Mazel tov! 

All of our love, 

Esther, Jeff, Carly and Justin 

White 



In honor of our friend 

and communal 

benefactor – 

Marilyn Sopher. 

ROSLYN & TOBY FEINERMAN 

White 



To a warm and kind family who are always willing 

to lend a helping hand. 

RAPHAEL AND VICKY NADEL 

Thank you… for sending your wonderful girls; ESTHER and 

YAELI to our school and for the liveliness and energy that they 

contribute to the classroom. 

Thank you… for always being there when we need you. 

Thank you… for lending a helping hand and a friendly smile. 

Thank you…for being the people you are! 

We are fortunate to have you as parents in our preschool. 

MAZAL TOV ON THIS WELL DESERVED HONOR! 

Mrs. Tzippy Weiss 

Preschool Director 

White 



20th Anniversary 

Celebration 

White 



Best wishes 

to all of the Honorees. 

May you go from 

strength to strength. 

Beth & Peter Kolevzon 

White 



Kol HaKavod to Rabbi Levi 

& Rebbetzin Sorah Shemtov 

on twenty years of tireless dedication and 

devotion to our Jewish community. 

May you go from strength to strength. 

Mazel tov to all of the deserving honorees. 

Jay & Dori Haberman 

White 



In honor of Rabbi Levi & Sorah 

Shemtov for 20 years of friendship, 

inspiration, leadership, spiritual 

guidance and love. 

With all of our love, 

Debbie & David Sable 

Tanya, Darren, Henry & Teddy Wolf 

Elianna & Yoel Kaye 

White 



To My Team of Staff and 

Early Childhood Educators Par Excellence: 

Toddler Morahs: Shifra, Jordana, Jessica and Ariella. 

Nursery Morahs: Gitty, Tzipporah and Jessica 

Pre-K Morahs: Leah, Rivki and Mushkie 

On behalf of Rabbi Levi and Sorah Shemtov and myself, 

I want to express our utmost thanks and appreciation for 

all your hard work and dedication. 

Your endless love and patience endears you to your 

students, parents and co-workers alike. 

Your willingness and creativity in making Judaism come 

alive in your classrooms is unique. 

You are what make us who we are and I am proud to be 

working with you! 

Special thank you to Andrea for all the hard work you do! 

Mrs. Tzippy Weiss 

Director, Chabad Early Learning Center 

White 



Congratulations to Neil & Ilene! 

We are so glad you are a part of our lives 

and are most appreciative 

for your friendship. 

Looking forward to many 

fruitful years to come. 

Love, 

Kelly & Kelly Clark 

White 



KEEP UP THE GOOD WORK! 

Yehudis & Nissan 

Margaret & Mayer 

Vicky & Raphael 

Congratulations to all on 

20 years of Chabad of Riverdale 

Moshiach now! 

FRIMET & YISROEL KAPLAN 

White 



Congratulations to 

all the honorees 

and a big Yasher Koach to 


for their tireless efforts on behalf 

of our community 

EVA & PETER KELLNER 

White 



In honor of our dear children 

and grandchildren, 

LEVI, SORAH, CHAYA MUSHKA, 

MENACHEM MENDEL & YOSEF SHEMTOV 

May the dedication you have and the 

wonderful work you are doing bring much 

nachas to the Rebbe and help bring 

MOSHIACH NOW! 

Your loving and proud parents and grandparents 

DR. MOSHE AND MIRIAM FELDMAN 

White 



Mazel Tov 

To our dear children, 

RABBI LEVI AND SORAH SHEMTOV, 

CHAYA MUSHKA, 

MENACHEM MENDEL AND YOSEF 

And to the entire Riverdale Jewish community, 

who are building a miniature temple which is a 

great pride to our Rebbe, O.B.M. 

May you go from strength to strength, and may 

we all see peace and tranquility in the land of 

Israel and the entire world. 

Mazel Tov to all the Honorees. 

From your parents, 

RABBI YISROEL AND MINDY SHEMTOV AND 

FAMILY 

White 



Mazel tov to the Nadel family 

and to all the Honorees! 

Mazel tov to Rabbi and 

Rebbetzin Shemtov on 20 years of 

inspiring and uplifting the 

Riverdale community and beyond. 

May you go from strength to strength. 

Aimee & Jonathan Baron 

White 



Thank you Chabad of Riverdale 

for this honor. 

And a special thanks to the morahs who have 

inspired us: 

Tsippy Weiss 

Gitty Eisner 

Batya Gartner 

Tzipporah Landsman 

Rivki Cowen 

Mushkie Vogel 

Shifra Garber 

Vicky, Raphael, Estie, Yael and Coby Nadel 

White 



CONGRATULATIONS AND BEST WISHES 

TO THE HONOREES 

ON THIS WELL DESERVED HONOR. 

THANKS FOR ALL YOUR HARD WORK AND 

COMMITMENT TO THIS WONDERFUL 

ORGANIZATION 

TO RABBI LEVI & SORAH SHEMTOV, 

YOU ARE OUTSTANDING PILLARS 

OF OUR RIVERDALE COMMUNITY. 

Moses Podolski 

White 




Chabad of Riverdale, 

on 20 outstanding 

years! 

Bruce Berger 

White 



Special thanks to Rabbi Levi 

& Rebbetzin Sorah Shemtov 

From Myrna & Eric Zinn 

Congratulations and best wishes to Rabbi Levi & 

Rebbetzin Sorah Shemtov on Chabad of 

Riverdale’s 20th anniversary. 

DEBBIE & MENDY MEREL 

Half Page 



Mazel tov to the Honorees! 

From Dr. Philip Don & Karen Stahl-Don 

We applaud and thank Rabbi Levi 

and Sorah Shemtov for their untiring love, 

dedication, and overwhelming efforts on behalf 

of Chabad of Riverdale. 

May Hashem grant them much koach to continue. 

Mazel tov to the Honorees. 

Rochelle & Leo Goldberg 

Half Page 



In honor and recognition of 

Ilene & Neil Leibowitz 

Your love of Torah is an inspiration to us all 

Mazel Tov 

JOSEPH, EVA, FRANKIE AND EDITH 

MAZAL TOV TO THE PRESCHOOL 

PARENTS OF THE YEAR 

VICKY AND RAPHAEL NADEL 

ON THIS WELL DESERVED HONOR. 

TZIPPY AND MENACHEM WEISS 

Half Page 



MAZEL TOV 

to our children 

Ilene & Neil 

and to 

Chabad of Riverdale 

on their 20th anniversary 

ELAINE, STANLEY AND LAURE COHEN 

Congratulations to this year’s 

Guests of Honor 

Neil and Ilene Leibowitz 

Mazel tov! 

With great admiration, 

Steven and Brenda Arenson 

Half Page 




Dr. Judah & Gail Schorr 

Best Wishes for Continued Success. 


Neil and Ilene Leibowitz 

on this great and well deserved honor - 

We are honored to be a part of your lives - 

Wishing you much success in the future. 

Your friends @ Adorama 

Half Page 



We wish Mazel tov to our dear sister and brother-in-law and Aunt & Uncle 

Margaret and Mayer Fried on this most deserved honor. 

We thank them for their kind hearts, wisdom, generosity of spirit, and love 

they have shared with us all their lives. Through their example they have 

taught us true Chesed and Mitzva performance to the ultimate level. 

May they be blessed with a long life ‘til 120 enjoying continued Simchas 

with us and Nachas from all their dorim. They are a true honor to Klal 

Israel, and their actions are worthy of emulation. 

Love, 

Gilbert and Eva Gertzfeld family 

Hillel and Leah Shapiro 

Cary and Raizy Rubinstein 

Yosef and Ayelet Knopf 

Yechiel and Sarah Gertzfeld 

Dear Ilene and Neil- 

Congratulations! 

From, 

Ruth & Michael Sonnenblick 

Half Page 



Happy anniversary 

to Chabad of Riverdale! 

Harry & Judith Ballan 

Congratulations Raphael 

on this well deserved honor! 

You should be matzliach in all your ventures. 

Hatzalacha and best wishes. 

From, 

Israel & Joel Krausz and the entire ADS team 

Half Page 



Easy Healthy Life 

HEALTH & WEIGHT LOSS COACHING FOR WOMEN 

Free initial consultation 

Central Riverdale location/on-site parking 

House calls available 

Specializing in long-term weight loss and chronic conditions 

Call Gittel Koenig 

at # 917-613-3965 

for your free consultation 

To Vicky & Raphael, 

Congratulations on this well deserved award. 

Wishing you much nachas from all your children 

and success in all your endeavors. 

Eli Segel & Aryeh Weiss 

Half Page 



To Rabbi Shemtov 

& family – 

Yasher Koach! 

Much Hatzlacha for the 

future! 

LILLIAN & MICHAEL MARTON 


Vicky and Raphael 

HEIDI AND GEOFFREY PALMER 

We are pleased to honor 

Rabbi Shemtov and all of 

the outstanding, well 

deserving Honorees. 

JADE, MIA, SUSAN AND BILL 

ABRAMSON 

To all the Honorees: 

We wish you good health 

and success in all your 

endeavors. 

A special Mazel Tov to 

Margaret & Mayer Fried! 

From, 

AGNES AND IRVING STEINBAUM 

Platinum Listing 



HAPPY BIRTHDAY 

CHABAD OF RIVERDALE 

KEEP UP THE 

GOOD WORK. 

WE ALL 

LOVE YOU GUYS!!!! 

SPECIAL MAZEL TOV 

TO NISSAN AND 

ILENE LEIBOWITZ 

FROM SHEINA & EZRA HOUSE 

To our oldest daughter, Ilene, and to our 

most youthful son-in-law, Neil: 

You guys are amazing and inspire us. 

We are SO proud of you, 

you can't even know. 

May Hashem continue to bless your family 

with ALL of the blessings in the Torah and 

may your light continue to 

burn bright, providing guidance, caring, 

warmth and love - to your friends, 

family and extended family until 120. 

Love, 

YITZ, LEAH & 

THE WHOLE GREENMAN MISHPACHA 

To our dear friends, 

Neil and Ilene, 

Mazel tov on this well 

deserved honor. 

Wishing you all the best and 

much hatzlacha, 

AVROHOM DOVID AND FRAIDY 

TYBERG & FAMILY 

Mazel tov on the 

engagement of our children, 

Chaya Sorah Goldhair to 

Shlomo Leib Lindsay 

MR. & MRS. R. GOLDHAIR 

AND 

MR. & MRS. R. STOLL 





Neil & Ilene! 

You are a great couple and 

excellent role models. 

Best wishes, 

DAVID, ADRIENNE, ZACHARY, 

SHOSHANA & GABRIEL 

GOLDBERG 

In recognition and 

appreciation of Rabbi Levi 

& Sorah Shemtov, for the 

beautiful work they do to 

spread the good work 

of Judaism. 

JEFFREY BECKER 

Mazel tov to Chabad of 

Riverdale! 

In loving memory of 

Flora & Benjamin 

Rabinovitch 

From, 

RUTH & ZVI HERZEL 

Congratulations! 

Anonymous 




CONGRATULATIONS 


BEST WISHES, 

PLANET FITNESS 

Mazal tov to tonight's 

honorees! 

Gary Wartels, 

Skyview Wine & Spirits 

SKYVIEW WINE & SPIRITS 

Kosher Wine Specialists - Discount Prices - Special Events 

Free delivery throughout NYC, Westchester and L.I. 

with minimum purchase 

5681 Riverdale Avenue 

Skyview Shopping Center 

Riverdale, New York 10471 

T: (718) 601-8222 

F: (718) 548-3230 

www.SkyviewWines.com 

888-SKY-VINO 


Marylin Sopher! 

From, 

Pacific Transglobal Construction Corp. 

PACIFIC TRANSGLOBAL 

CONSTRUCTION CORP. 

Louis Brutto 

Principal 

61 Southside Avenue, Building B 

Hastings on Hudson, NY 10706 

Phone # 914-423-0814 

Fax # 914-963-6116 

LouBrutto@PacificTransglobal.com 

www.PacificTransglobal.com 


to Chabad of 

Riverdale on 

this momentous 

occasion. 

Hatzlacha, 

Dr. Tzvi & Tamar Bar David 




MAZEL TOV 

TO ILENE & NEIL LEIBOWITZ. 

IT'S AN HONOR TO KNOW YOU. 

FROM JAY & AUDREY BERGER 

WE LOVE OUR DEAR FRIENDS, 

NEIL & ILENE LEIBOWITZ. 

MAZEL TOV! 

RABBI ELI & CHANI ROSENZVEIG & 

CONGREGATION ANSHE SHOLOM 

Gold Listing 

CONGRATULATIONS TO 

ILENE & NEIL LEIBOWITZ. 

BEST WISHES! 

YOUR GOOD FRIENDS, 

JON & ANGELA BIHN 

IN HONOR OF RABBI LEVI SHEMTOV 

AND THE WARM COMMUNITY AT 

CHABAD OF RIVERDALE. 

WE MISS YOU DEARLY HERE IN L.A. 

WITH LOVE, 

TULI & RUTHIE SKAIST 

CONGRATULATIONS 

VICKY & RAPHAEL 

ON THIS WELL DESERVED HONOR! 

BEST WISHES, 

AUDREY & NETANEL COHEN 

MAZEL TOV! 

LOVE, 

AUNT SHIRLEY AND UNCLE PHIL 



MAZEL TOV TO THE HONOREES AND TO 

CHABAD OF RIVERDALE 

BEST WISHES, 

MARK & DOROTHY OBERMAN 

IN HONOR OF ILENE & NEIL 

LEIBOWITZ 

WITH ALL OUR LOVE, 

ILENE & SIDNEY REIFF 

MAZEL TOV RAPHAEL AND VICKY! 

MICHAEL FRIED 

AND YOSEF BAUMGARTEN 

TECH-KEYS 

BEST WISHES! MAZEL TOV TO 

ILENE & NEIL 

FROM, 

PAULETTE & MARTY 

Gold Listing 

MAZEL TOV TO THE HONOREES 

JUDY, ROGER AND BEN KAHN 

CONGRATULATIONS TO THE LEIBOWITZ FAMILY, 

NISSAN, YEHUDIS AND RIVA 

ON BEING HONORED FOR ALL YOUR GREAT 

COMMUNITY SERVICE. 

WITH BEST WISHES, 

MENACHEM, JORDANA, MORDECHAI AND 

BERIAH ROSS 

MAZEL TOV AND THANK YOU TO ALL OF 

THE HONOREES. SPECIAL THANK YOU TO 

RABBI AND REBBETZIN SHEMTOV FOR THEIR 

HARD WORK AND GENEROUS SOULS. 

DAFNA AND ADAM KOTOK 

CONGRATULATIONS VICKY 

& RAPHAEL NADEL ON THIS GREAT HONOR. 

WISHING YOU MANY MORE 

SUCCESSFUL YEARS. 

BERRY WEISS 

PREFERRED HOME CARE OF NEW YORK 



DEAR ILENE AND NEIL, 

MAZEL TOV ON THIS WONDERFUL HONOR! 

MAY YOU BE BLESSED TO CONTINUE TO SERVE HASHEM AND BRING NACHAS 

TO YOUR FAMILY AND THE COMMUNITY. 

SANDRA AND HOWIE BERENSTEIN 

CAMP GAN ISRAEL 

FREE Swim & Red Cross instruction at the 

June 29— Whitehall Club H Skill Development in Team Sports 

H Nature/Mad Science H Weekly Trips 

August 6, 2012 Karate H Special Events & Shows Ceramic Arts 

Gymnastics H Tennis H Arts & Crafts 

Hot Delicious Lunches 

MINI DIVISION BOYS & GIRLS AGES 3-4 

JUNIOR DIVISION BOYS & GIRLS AGES 5-11 

For a FREE DVD of last year’s camp or for an application call 718-549-1100 ext 10 

or visit us online to download the application www.chabadriverdale.org 

A Project of Chabad Lubavitch of Riverdale 

Gold Listing

CHABAD OF RIVERDALE'S - Pro-Found Software, Inc.

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