By COLlive staff
Photos: Rivkah Laber Photography
The celebration marking 18 years (Chai – Life!) of Shlichus of Rabbi Yossi and Leah Rubin, Directors of the Clifton Park Chabad Jewish Center in Saratoga County, New York was filled with inspiration, warmth, and a boost to go forward.
The event opened with a Chai Photo Gallery, showcasing memorable moments from the past 18 years of outreach. Photos were arranged by year on beautiful display boards. At the center of the space stood an interactive unity art project—a “Paint by Number – Am Yisrael Chai” mural of the Western Wall, designed by Rivi Bahir and color-coordinated under the guidance of Alyla Goldman, symbolizing unity, that everyone counts, their effort and unique color they paint and only together we complete our mission.
Each guest received a commemorative journal featuring photos and personal stories from the journey of Shlichus. One particularly moving story shared how a late-night encounter at the Clifton Park rest area with Monty, a truck driver from California, led to transformation. Monty, who listened to Rabbi Josh Gordon’s Torah classes on Chabad.org during his long hauls, was inspired by that brief meeting to begin putting on tefillin daily—a quiet, lasting impact of Jewish connection on the road.
Outdoors, guests gathered on the Chabad House deck to enjoy delicious refreshments and live klezmer music, which filled the summer evening with joyful spirit.
Words from Local Leaders
A special ribbon-cutting ceremony followed, joined by local dignitaries.
Pete from the Chamber of Commerce, known for reading the Rebbe’s letter at the annual Chanukah event, spoke about Chabad as a beacon of peace and security in turbulent times.
Clifton Park Town Supervisor Phil Barrett expressed his admiration for Chabad’s consistent presence and dedication to the community.
State Senator Jim Tedisco shared his appreciation for Chabad’s deep and lasting impact, saying that for 18 years—Chai—Chabad has truly breathed life into Clifton Park. Despite a busy evening in the town, the dignitaries would not miss the celebration.
The highlight of the evening was the historic local printing of the Tanya—the very first Torah book ever printed in Clifton Park.
Rabbi Yossi Rubin explained the significance: just a few miles from Clifton Park, 250 years ago, the Battle of Saratoga marked a turning point in the American Revolution. This new nation was then founded on the Noahide values of righteousness and moral clarity—values rooted in Torah.
“At that same time, thousands of miles away, the Alter Rebbe began writing the Tanya, a revolutionary work that changed Jewish spiritual life forever,” he said. “The Tanya reveals the inner battle of the two souls within every person, guiding us to live with purpose, joy, and deep connection to G‑d.”
He said the community is really excited to learn the wellsprings of Chassidus from a Tanya printed in their own town and were able to participate by pressing the button on the printer and to have their family names printed in the Tanya dedications.
As violinist Yehoshua Sussman played stirring melodies of the Alter Rebbe, the printers got to work. Students Chaim Osdabo and Nosson Weinfeld from the Chabad Yeshiva in Pomona facilitated the printing and brought Chassidic energy with tefillin, and spirited farbrengen.
Personal Reflections
The formal program continued in the Chabad garage, currently serving as a multi-purpose room.
It began with Tehillim led by Rabbi Israel Rubin, who established Chabad in the Capital Region over 50 years ago.
He was followed by Shlucha Leah Rubin, who spoke from the heart about the emotional journey of preparing for this milestone—reviewing thousands of photos, reflecting on all the memorable moments; feeling deep gratitude to be on Shlichus in Clifton Park, remembering those no longer with us, and Refuah Shelaima to all in our community who need healing and for our brothers and sisters in Israel.
Many community members shared what Chabad means to them:
Layne shared how Chabad’s approach made her feel truly seen, appreciated, and embraced. Growing up, she viewed Chassidim as distant—but now she studies Chumash daily and takes on new Mitzvot each year.
Alan described Judaism as an ocean—some dip their toes, others dive deep—but all are nourished by the springs of Torah illuminated by Chassidus. He shared about an email he received 6 months ago that brought him to Shabbat services.
Ben, a college student, shared how Judaism was once just a label for him, and he often felt alone in school. But through CKids Chabad Hebrew School, CTeenU in high school, and now Sinai Scholars at Siena College, he discovered his true Jewish identity. He summed it up in one word: “Discovery.”
Alyla reflected on how Chabad became her family, helping her grow as a parent and become an active part of the community.
Though Scott Roth could not attend in person, his message was read aloud: he described Chabad as “the eye of the storm”—a place of peace and calm even as the world swirls with chaos. He conveyed his heartfelt appreciation to Chabad Hebrew School, where his grandchildren attend and he and his wife Clara, volunteer.
A clip from JEM’s “Challenge” was shown, highlighting the Rebbe’s timeless message: Be proud of your accomplishments—but never rest. There are always more Mitzvot to do, more people to uplift, and more sparks to ignite.
Vision for the Future
Rabbi Mendel Rubin, director of Shabbos House, Chabad at the University at Albany, reflected on the unique symbolism of holding the event in a garage—a modest space that opens doors. He pointed out how garage doors are very expansive, and you open by lifting upward. “That’s the essence of Chabad,” he said. “to welcome all, and most importantly to lift people up too.”
Marv Leroy, who is helping lead the expansion of Clifton Park Chabad, then spoke about the vision for the future. Guests were introduced to a glass set of doors, —the future site of the Clifton Park Chabad House. These doors represent the promise of a new space to welcome future generations with open hearts and minds. The evening closed with a group photo in front of those doors, capturing a timeless moment of growth and hope.
This unforgettable evening was not only a celebration of the past 18 years of Shlichus—it was for the future.
In honor of 18 years of shlichus, please partner with us to help build our new Chabad House charidy.com/buildcliftonparkchabad
