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Photos: Jewish Childrens Museums 4th Annual Dinner

CROWN HEIGHTS, Brooklyn [CHI] — Over 500 guests comprised of community leaders, supporters and friends gathered last night at the Jewish Children’s Museum to celebrate its 4th anniversary with an international food walk-through and awards ceremony.

More pictures in the Extended Article!

“Tonight’s theme reflects our mission of uniting various cultures. Through foods spanning the globe, we celebrate each other’s diversity in a fun and engaging way,” said Mendy Spalter, the Museum’s Director of Development.

Last night, the Museum, known for its interactive exhibits, was engaging in a food-centered way. The kid-sized Super Market and kosher kitchen hosted European soups and salads; on the lower level guests enjoyed American favorites and an eclectic Mexican taco bar; dinner attendees journeyed through Asian and Italian buffets and an open bar.

At the award ceremony’s commence, Rabbi Yerachmiel Benjaminson, Executive Director of the JCM was one of the first to address the audience.

Rabbi Yerachmiel Benjaminson spoke about the Museum being a “paradigm for other Museums”.

“This Museum took something horrible and evil and turned it into something of hope and brightness,” he said, referring to the murder of Ari Halberstam.

Devorah Halberstam gave a heart wrenching account of her drive home from visiting her son’s grave this past week, to mark the day of his passing. “I was deep in thought when I heard the news of the terrorist attack in Israel that killed eight Jewish students,” she said through her tears.

“The same terror struck my heart as it did 15 years ago when I heard the news of my son being shot on the Brooklyn Bridge. But 15 years ago, it was my son, not someone else’s.”

Halberstam then spoke about the ever pressing demand to combat the lack of awareness that breeds hatred. She thanked Museum supporters for “acting on justice and social responsibility.”

The dinner was attended by community leaders and officials, including former Governor George E. Pataki, City Comptroller Billy Thompson Jr., Council Member Letitia James, Police Commissioner Ray Kelley, Borough President Marty Markowitz and members of the FBI and NYPD.

Since opening in April of 2005, the Jewish Children’s Museum has welcomed over 100,000 visitors of every age, background and faith for a hands-on, interactive and educational experience with Jewish culture. Various multi-media enliven Jewish tradition in over 80 hands-on, interactive exhibits, which include a “Holes of Life” mini-golf course and live game show studio.

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8 Comments

  • DJ

    Yossi Malamud, You rock!!!! I like that whole dark shirt and dark suit thing…

  • cousin

    bayla and chanala you both look sophisticated,gorgeous, and pretty! from your favourate cuz who livesa far far away….

  • a jerusalemite

    yasher koyach on the great work you do. But..is this the a moysad in the Rebbe’s schuna? Hullo? Tznius? anyone over there care? Ladies, your beautiful Jewish princesses, not fashion models! Common already. wake up yidden! Once commented before by a Chasid , your non-tznius actions totally affect whats happening here in Israel.