Riverdale Marks 18 Anniversary

Over 250 friends and supporters gathered Saturday evening, January 23, 2010, for a gala evening of dinner, entertainment, and tribute, celebrating the 18th anniversary of Chabad-Lubavitch of Riverdale, directed by Rabbi Levi Y. and Sorah Shemtov at the New York Botanical Garden.

The honorees were Al Kahn, Dr. Robert and Rachel Jetter, and Daniel and Chani Oshinsky.

Al Kahn was honored with the Keter Kehuna – Crown of Priesthood award and he remarked that finally after 97 years he feels like a somebody – like a “mentch” – thanks to the good work of Chabad.

Dr. Robert and Rachel Jetter, the Guests of Honor, were honored for their support and commitment to Chabad and their selfless commitment to the welfare of the greater Jewish community. Dr. Robert Jetter spoke about the Chabad House’s growth during the past 18 years and the impact that Chabad has on hundreds of people.

Daniel and Chani Oshinsky were honored as Parents of the Year. Their daughters Naomi and Shira attend the Chabad pre-school, Daniel Oshinsky thanked the Shemtovs for Chabad’s state-of-the-art preschool program.

The evening also included a video that recapped the history and activities of Chabad-Lubavitch of Riverdale for the past 18 years, and an emotional award presentation.

The crowd enjoyed the singing sensation Yoni Zigelbaum, accompanied by the Benshimon orchestra.

The evening closed with comedian Marc Weiner giving a hilarious performance about his journey into observance, as a Baal Teshuva.

The special warmth and love that are the trademark of Chabad made the evening a most memorable experience for the entire Riverdale community.