On Sunday 13 of Sivan, we commenced out annual HaMesivta alumni barbecue with an evening theme of “America iz nisht andersht.”
The evening began with our first speaker Rabbi Stroh. He spoke of how America iz nisht andersht, he said that even though we still face day to day challenges, looking back on history, some of the daily hardships one had to endure was being made fun of for wearing a yarmulke or having a full beard. Furthermore he spoke with the deepest sincerity and importance about being deeply connected to the Rebbe. It is with this connection that one can overcome many of these daily challenges.
Passing down the baton to our next highly inspirational speaker, Reb Shalom Ber Bryski. Reb Shalom is a successful Crown Heights businessman. With a vast knowledge of Wall Street he gave us the low down on his accomplishments and outstanding success. However putting those novelties aside, one thing he made sure of was to always find a way to help other yidden in any way possible. He spoke of many different yidden he has had the opportunity to meet from some of the largest companies in America. Some that were mentioned were Sysco and AIG. When having the chance to meet these yidden there is one key point that Reb Shalom made distinctly clear, it was as necessity to bring them Matza before Pesach and share with them something about yidishkeit.
Our next speaker, Rabbi Lieblich, talked about the importance of staying connected to the Yeshiva even once you leave that front door and move onto the next chapter of your life. It is crucial to be connected to Torah and to make it part of your life, regular shiurim and davening should be part of your life. It is not only important to reach out to your roots but in the long run it will be beneficial. He then thanked Yanki Teller and Moshe Meir Katz, two up and coming businessmen, who have been great supporters of HaMestiva and will continue with their best efforts to contribute to HaMestiva.
Along with these inspirational speakers, we made sure to bring some more lively entertainment. The bochurim not only witnessed but also had the opportunity to experience hypnoses. The live show was conducted by the renowned hypnoses Brian Eslick. He gave a full explanation and understanding of how the boys are always in full control of their mind, however they are in a deep state of relaxation under hypnoses. This was quite the treat.
Lastly, aspiring entrepreneur Mendy Raskin, an alumni of HaMesivta, spoke about the importance of supporting the yeshiva. He said “I’m not up here telling you to give all your money to HaMesivta, I’m telling you that you want to” and he continued “In honor of the 12th year of HaMesivta I’m going to give $1,200 to the student fund, and I’m asking that you give whatever you could.”
To make a donation to HaMesivta, or for more information visit www.hamesivta .com
Raskins looking good!
It was a great evening! Thank you, Rabbi Lieblich and Rabbi Stroh, and Mrs. Teller. Looking forward to next year!