Yeshiva Har Torah’s 36th Annual Scholarship Dinner was a spectacular evening celebrating our shared values, dedication, and community spirit. Held at the beautiful Old Westbury Hebrew Congregation, the event drew 750 attendees who gathered to honor the school and its supporters. With a theme saluting the heroes of the IDF, the evening reflected our admiration for their bravery and the timeless values we strive to embody at YHT. In line with the theme of the evening, the stunning venue was enhanced by green and gold lighting, creating a warm and elegant atmosphere. Guests enjoyed a delicious meal while connecting with fellow members of the YHT family.
The program began with Rabbi Hal Levy, principal, welcoming the attendees and leading the group in reciting Tehillim for the ongoing situation in Israel and our soldiers. A special and moving Mi Sheberach prayer was beautifully sung by Craig Resmovits, a proud YHT parent and member of Six13, setting a heartfelt tone for the evening. YHT president, Adam Zitter, delivered inspiring remarks on the importance of supporting the institution and the scholarship campaign. He highlighted the incredible talents within the YHT community—dedicated teachers, administration, and families who work tirelessly to uphold its mission.
Rabbi Gary Menchel, head of school, took the stage to present heartfelt tributes. He recognized the Alumni Class of ’05, expressed gratitude to Dr. Sharon Nachman for her invaluable medical guidance during the challenges of COVID, and thanked everyone who contributed to making the dinner a success. Rabbi Menchel also introduced this year’s honorees: Adva and Rob Ambalu, Guests of Honor; Danielle and Aryeh Schlusselberg, Pillars of Jewish Education; Jennifer and Jerry Revich, Tomchei Torah Awardees; and Daena Greene, Faculty Award for Distinguished Educational Leadership. Each honoree has made a profound impact on the school, inspiring the community with their dedication and commitment.
The lights dimmed as dynamic, entertaining, and meaningful video tributes were shown for each honoree, celebrating their dedication and inspiring everyone to become more involved in supporting YHT. Each honoree received citations from local politicians, including Assemblyman David Weprin—a proud YHT grandparent—and Nassau County Legislator Mazi Pilip, a former IDF paratrooper and current YHT parent. In addition, the honorees were presented with beautiful pieces of artwork symbolizing their contributions and commitment to our community.
This memorable evening showcased the strength and spirit of Yeshiva Har Torah—a place where values, education, and community come together to “build the Jewish future, one child at a time.”
Yeshiva Har Torah celebrated Chanukah this year with an array of meaningful and inspiring programs that illuminated the spirit and the lessons of Chanukah. To set the tone for the Chanukah celebrations, students in grades 3-8 were inspired by special musical Hallel programs led by Rabbi Eisenberger and Rabbi Levy.
Early childhood and first-second grade students in the state of the art Early Learning Center enjoyed a special Chanukah carnival, where the students played games, participated in hands-on activities, and created glow-in-the-dark T-shirts that added an extra sparkle to their holiday experience. Students danced under black lights at the Glow Chagigah, celebrating the festival of lights in a truly vibrant way.
For students in grades 3-8, the festivities included lively chagigot with music led by Mr. Craig Resmovits. The energy in the room was electric as students danced and celebrated together, showcasing the unity and simcha that define the holiday. A highlight for many was the teacher-student hockey game, where teachers and rebbeim faced off against the boys varsity hockey team in a thrilling match that had everyone cheering.
Special shows delighted students across the school. Early Learning Center students were treated to an engaging puppet show, while grades 3-5 enjoyed a comedy juggling performance that left them laughing and amazed. For grades 6-8, mentalist David Rosenfeld captivated the audience with mind-bending tricks and illusions, leaving everyone in awe.
A Chanukah-themed panoply brought a competitive and educational edge to the celebrations for students in grades 5-8. Teams worked together to answer questions, solve puzzles, and showcase their Chanukah knowledge, making learning fun and interactive. In addition, the seventh and eighth grade girls participated in a special program called Cafe Chanukah, where they enjoyed pastries and painting under the guidance of Mrs. Orit Lax, combining creativity, socializing, and fun.
A beautiful inter-grade program brought students together in the spirit of collaboration and mentorship. Students in grades 3-6 visited the Early Learning Center, where they worked with younger students to build menorahs and read Chanukah stories.
The eighth-grade girls extended the light of Chanukah beyond the school walls with a visit to the Parker Institute. There, they engaged residents in a Chanukah crafts activity, bringing smiles and warmth to members of the community.
The faculty also joined in the festivities with a Chanukah party. Highlights included a special YHT edition of Apples to Apples, delicious food, and inspirational remarks from our rosh hayeshiva, Rabbi Menchel.
The Chanukah programming at Yeshiva Har Torah captured the beauty, creativity, and meaning of the holiday, leaving students and staff with cherished memories and a deeper appreciation for the miracles of Chanukah.
