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Dear RTFH Family,
With the results of the NYC Mayoral Election, there is an undercurrent of fear among parts of the Jewish community and within our congregation. Concerns over Zohran Mamdani’s past actions and statements raise trepidation about what our city might be like with him as mayor. Others within our congregation see merit in some of his policies and vision.
Now is the time to stay strong as a Jewish people. New York City is the largest Jewish community outside of Israel. We must stand for a city that respects, protects, and celebrates all of its citizens – including the Jewish community. And we must always stand up for the safety and future of Israel.
I wrote to Mayor-Elect Mamdani, congratulating him and reminding him of the promises he made to fight antisemitism and to recognize how broad statements and divisive language can cause real harm. I reflected that he is part of a group that has experienced its share of hate, so he should especially work to build a New York City where everyone feels safe and included. We will all be watching.
As we move forward, we all must make this the most inclusive, welcoming city for Jews, for all minorities, for us all.
L’shalom,
Rabbi Mark
The Union for Reform Judaism has also shared reflections on the election, which you can read here.
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Chanukah Shuk
Sunday, November 9th at 2pm
Join us for an Israeli-style marketplace as we kick off the Chanukah holiday in festive style. With over 30 incredible vendors — you’re sure to find something special.
Enjoy the spirit of giving with exciting raffle prizes, while raising funds for tzedakah.
Click here for more details
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Say As I Say
Thursday, November 6th at 7pm
We invite you to a special screening of this acclaimed short, Say As I Say. Following the film, join Director Daniel Solé and producers Adam Chitayat and Marlena Skrobe for an essential conversation.
Click here for more details
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Shabbat Evening Service
Friday, November 7th at 6:15pm
Join our 7th Grade and the Junior Choir for Shabbat Reshon Services, with food, conversation, and fun times!
Service starts at 6:15 pm. A delicious Italian dinner and dessert to follow in the ballroom.
Services are live-streamed at rtfh.org/live and youtube.com/reformtempleofforesthills
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Chaia Schechter is celebrating her Bat Mitzvah!
Saturday, November 8th at 10:30 am
Mazel Tov to Chaia, her parents Jason and Suzy, Michaela, Levi and the entire Schechter family
The RTFH congregation is invited to join Saturday morning services via livestream at rtfh.org/live
Chaia's Mitzvah Project
For my mitzvah project, I partnered with Coalition for the
Homeless to provide blankets and sleeping bags to those in need.
I chose this organization because when I commute to my school I see many unhoused people on the streets, in the stations, and on the trains. I also visit my mom’s school many afternoons. About a quarter of my mom’s students are unhoused. I wanted to help people like them because everyone deserves comfortable objects to help them sleep.
To do this, I created a website for donations and have
successfully raised about $1,500 to purchase blankets and sleeping bags.
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BE A PART OF HISTORY: HELP SHAPE THE NEW REFORM TORAH COMMENTARY
Join RTFH as we help pilot the forthcoming The New Reform Torah Commentary.
Along with hundreds of communities, we will gather together to study and offer feedback on this transformative new resource.
We’ll meet on November 8th at 9:00am via Zoom. All participants will be asked to share feedback online after the session.
Join us online at via Zoom
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Join the RTFH 20s & 30s group for a Trivia Night on November 11th at 7:00pm in the RTFH ballroom.
This event is open to RTFH members and community members in their 20s and 30s. Snacks and beverages provided. If you have questions about this event, reach out to Rabbinic Intern Jules Ilian at jilian@rtfh.org.
Please sign up with this link
| Thank you for a fabulous Midnight Run, RTFH Family! | |
Our community generously donated their time, energy, funds--and 100 hoodies! From contributions to hands-on help, you made Midnight Run an unforgettable night of compassion and connection for our Temple volunteers and our unhoused neighbors.
We hope you'll join us for more Social Action Team initiatives throughout the year!
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Collecting Old Blankets and Sheets for Dogs
For her mitzvah project, Tess Kingsley invites you to donate to help dogs. She writes, "I am collecting old sheets and blankets that people do not use anymore and donating them to a dog shelter. When the dogs first arrive at the shelter, they do not have anything in their crate, so anything can make it a lot more cozy.” Look for a box in the Temple upper lobby
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Responding to Need: A Call for Action and Available Food Resources
With the government shutdown, many people have lost essential SNAP benefits to put food on the table every day.
If you are in need of food, there are food banks and pantries in the area, including Masbia, Commonpoint Queens, Kehilat Pantry, and Queens Community House. You are always welcome to take any food on the donations table at Temple. Don't hesitate to get in touch with Rabbi Kaiserman privately if we can provide additional help.
If you can help others, please bring non-perishable food and supplies to Temple or a local food pantry.
| | Someone has a birthday coming...
If your/your child's birthday is in November, RTFH would like to celebrate it with you!
On November 7th and November 21st, we'll celebrate all November birthdays at our Shabbat services.
Join your Temple family to recognize your special birthday month!
יום הולדת שמח! Yom Huledet Sameach! Happy Birthday!
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Drop In Mah Jong Game Night
Join us for a night full of fun, games and laughs!
Upcoming game nights: November 5th, 12th, and 19th at 6:00pm
Light Refreshments will be served. Other games are welcome.
WoCo Members: $5 Guest: $8
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