Thousands Attend Chabad's Parade in Ashkelon
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The annual Lag Bomer parade was attended by over 3000 children and parents. The parade was lead by the marching band of the Chabads Or Menachem boys school. They marched uniformly on the main street of Ashkelon to the indoor sport stadium.
Rabbi Lieberman warmly greeted the children and their parents and relayed the message of the importance of the study of the Torah.
The deputy executive of KZAA, Mr. E. Friedman who sponsored the advertisement for the parade by including safety instructions for lighting bonfires, addressed the children and encouraged their efforts in keeping the environment clean.
The mayor Mr. Beni Vaknin was proud to attend the magnificent gathering honoring Rabbi Shimon Bar Yochai.
Rabbi Gorelik, who coordinates and organizes the programs and the parade in the city, spoke about the merit of attending the parade since Rabbi Shimon Bar Yochai is also here blessing each and everyone.
The program began with the performance of the school band, followed by children from different schools reciting 12 Torah passages, a special soap bubbles shoe and great raffle prizes.
The parents and children thanked Chabad for the tremendous investment and dedication for the wonderful event.
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Kabbalah around the Bonfire
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Hundreds of families in every neighborhood in the city gathered to celebrate Lag Bomer with the traditional lighting of bonfires. They joined in the singing and dancing and learned about the sacred Kabbaliast Rabbi Shimon Bar Yochai . Food and refreshments were served and the children enjoyed a special program.
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Food Package Distribution to Hundreds
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The Chesed Center Of Chai Ashkelon distributed close to a thousand basic food packages for the Passover holiday. Hundreds of needy people who came to receive the packages pointed out that the distribution helped them celebrate the holiday, without worrying, and joyfully.
In addition, many extensive packages were distributed to families in deep financial difficulties. The packages were donated by the KZAA Company
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Four Public Seders in Ashkelon
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Chai Ashkelon and the Chesed Center organized four public seders. Hundreds participated in the festive holiday seder with Chai's unique atmosphere, for a nominal fee.
In addition Seders were run in old age homes and for Russian speakers.
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Chai's Preschool Attend Passover Fair
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700 children of the Chai daycare centers and kindergartens attended the annual Passover fair. Wearing chef's hats and aprons they kneaded, rolled and baked the traditional round handmade Shmura Matzot. They also learned about the traditions and customs of the holiday through games, crafts and fun activities.
Rabbi S. Cohen, director of Chai's preschools, who personally accompanied the children, believes that hands on experience is the most effective educational tool of teaching the holiday laws and customs
Chai operates the largest private preschool system in Ashkelon, due to the tremendous investment of the dedicated director and staff members. The professionalism, caring and warmth along with the learning skills and values instilled in the children have contributed to Chais reputation as an excellent educational institution.
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Adar's Arrival Heralded with Increased Joy in Chai
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Happy children is Chai's educational motto. Great emphasis is placed on insuring that children are happy to come to school each morning. In the festive month of Adar this is stressed even more. The children enjoy a variety of fun programs including dancing, costumes, competition and plays to the delight of the children.
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Exclusive Annual Women's Gathering
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Hundreds of women packed the hall for the annual gathering commemorating the passing of Rebetzin Chaya Mushka O"BM wife of the late Lubavitcher Rebbe.
The evening is the climax of the women's functions throughout the year. These include monthly gatherings, weekly classes, assistance to mothers and newborns.
The women were greeted warmly by the Neshei Chai organizers and each received a gift. The tables were elegantly set with a light meal.
The theme of the evening was giving the benefit of the doubt. Rabbi Gorelik lit a candle and learned Mishnayot in honor of the Rebetzin. Rabbi Lieberman the director of Chabad addressed the crowd. The program included a video of the Lubavitcher Rebbe. The Chai actor M. Veigel performed humorous and emotional acts. The keynote address was by Rabbi Katzbi on giving the benefit of the doubt in marriage in the light of Chassidic teachings. The girls' school performed a spectacular dance accompanied by the singer Yaffa with songs written especially for the evening. The evening ended with raffling of the Chinese auction on expensive items donated by local businesses.
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Tu Bshvat Activities
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The Eilat Ashkelon Pipeline Company organized a fascinating program in the Or Menachem Chai boys' school. The program was initiated by courtesy of its vice director Mr. E. Friedman, a personal friend of Rabbi Lieberman, director of Chai Ashkelon. Mr. Friedman came with senior members to watch the children's' excitement in the special activities. The children prepared flutes from reeds, recycled candles, colored sand and many other crafts and learned about green environment in a fun way.
Last month EAPC and Chai organized a professional workshop for 50 principals and teachers on environmental safety in their plant. In addition they sponsored some school trips to the Museum of Science. Chai thanks EAPC for its productive
partnership and wishes them much success.
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Ready for School
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Chai emphasizes preparing children for first grade. The children learn letters reading, writing and thinking skills during their pre1a class. This way they come prepared for school. Indeed children who learned in the Chai preschools are sought after by many schools.
As a preparation for first grade the children spent a day in school where the first grade teacher prepared an interactive program for them. They were introduced to a school and classroom structure. Each child received a preparation for school booklet and a gift.
The children were happy to meet their friends from kindergarten who were now in school. The visit to school with their kindergarten teachers helps alleviate the anxiety many children have from school and helps boost their self confidence in the first days at school.
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Safety on the Road
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Chai schools emphasize the importance of safety on the road. After many lessons, programs and activities teaching the importance of the topic, the students went to practice in the field of the national safety organization.
They learned how to cycle and cross safely in accordance to the road signs and crosswalks. After a few hours of practice the children felt that they had gained new knowledge and awareness of road safety.
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Sidur Party
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The first grade of Chai Ashkelon celebrated the receiving of the Sidur- prayer book. The ceremony took place in Jerusalem by the Kotel- Wailing Wall. Each child received a Sidur with his name inscribed on the cover. This was followed by a festive brunch where the children performed for their parents.
Chai Schools emphasize teaching our Jewish tradition based on the Chassidic values of joy and love for our fellow Jews.
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Holiday Joy to Hospitalized Children
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Chai Ashkelon sponsored by Collel Chai spread the holiday joy to hospitalized children. The Chanuka parties began with lighting the Menora, songs, contests and quizzes. This was followed by the distribution of expensive Chanuka presents to each hospitalized child. The staff and parents express their deep gratitude for the programs which bring light and smiles to the suffering children.
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Spreading the Chanuka Light
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Chai Ashkelon sums up the Chanuka Holiday with dozens of programs.
The public Menorahs were lit each night in a different neighborhood. Dozens of children and their parents learned about the meaning of Chanuka, watched a magic show, received prizes and enjoyed the traditional Sufganyot doughnuts.
The Menoras were also lit in the old age homes and Barzilai hospital.
In addidtion hundreds of children attended Chanuka parties in their local Chai Houses. They participated in diverse activities, learned about the message of Chanuka, said the 12 verses of Torah, prepared Chanuka crafts received prizes and refreshments.
Many candles were lit in stores thus spreading the light to staff and customers.
Each night the procession of cars with Chanuka Lights lit up the city and spread the miracle of Chanuka to the entire city.
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Grand Bar Mitzva for 30 Boys
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Chai Ashkelon organized a grand Bar Mitzva Celebration for 30 boys. Rabbi Metzger, the Chief Rabbi of Israel blessed the children. The Mayor arrived straight from the airport to greet the boys. He was returning from Geneva where he staunchly defended the Israeli Defense Forces in a court case against the Operation Molten in Lead in Gaza.
Rabbi Lieberman, director of Chai Ashkelon, warmly addressed the boys and their families. He welcomed them to the Shlavim Therapeutic Center for special needs children, which was built entirely from generous donors.
The evening began with a festive barbecue followed by the gathering indoors. The greetings and speeches were followed by dancing and a magic show. Each boy received expensive presents.
The evening was sponsored by an anonymous donor.
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Womens Club Shavout Gathering
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Over 100 women participated for the annual Shavuot gathering. Mrs. Shushan spoke about the significance of the receiving of the Torah at Mount Sinai to our modern day. Melodies of a clarinet accompanied the evening followed by the traditional lavish bar of dairy foods which the women look forward to each year.
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4500 Children in Lag Bomer Parade
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Thousands of children marched in the central streets of Ashkelon in the annual Lag Bomer Parade. The procession was lead by the school band. Flags, prizes and surprises were distributed. Floats and huge dolls of religious themes accompanied the marchers who gathered in the huge sport stadium. The hall was overflowed and too small for the huge crowd. Rabbi Lieberman welcomed the children and parents and spoke about the significance of the holy day. The Mayor Beni Vaknin who greeted the assembly, and Mr. Shani , head of the dept. of culture pledged their support for Chais programs. Many other dignitaries attended the gathering.
The children sat spellbound at the performance of three professional jugglers and many expensive prizes were raffled.
The spectacular parade was organized by Rabbi Gorelik, director of the Shimhon Chai House and yearly programs for the entire city. He thanks all those who volunteered in organizing the program and contributed to its success.
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Mayor Hosts Rabbi Lieberman and Chai Shluchim
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Mayor Benny Vaknin hosted Rabbi Lieberman and the Chai Shlucim in his office in honor of the Lubavitcher Rebbe' s birthday on the 11th of Nissan. Also participating were Mr. Shlomo Cohen Deputy Mayor' Mrs. Sopie Baylin vice Mayor and other guest. The ceremony was finished with the participants writing a letter in the Sefer Torah being written for the safety of the citizens of Ashkelon.
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Students Portray Expertise on Passover Contest
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Students participated in the annual Passover quiz. After competing in intermediary tests, the outstanding students reached the final stage. The finalists portrayed expertise in the intricate laws and customs of the holiday. Each participant received a prize and the winners received expensive silver goblets and elegant Hagadot for the Seder. Chai Ashkelon encourages the students to excel.
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Chai Ashkelon Visits the Wounded
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Representatives of Chai visited the wounded soldiers of Operation Molten Lead.Amongst the injured wad a brother of a student in the Chai School. All of the children and staff are praying for his speedy recovery. Please join us in praying for Ben the son of Katie Shifra.
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MK Marina Solodkin Visits Chabad Ashkelon Institutions
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Member of Knesset Marina Solodkin visited Chabad Ashkelon and left with the promise of her office working together with Rabbi Lieberman to continue to support the needy of Ashkelon and Jewish education. During her visit to the Shlavim Center she immediately expressed her desire to see it up and running as soon as possible MORE PICTURES
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Chabad Ashkelon Stands with Sderot
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The girls of Or Chaya put on a special evening dedicated to the children of Ashkelon and Sderot. Among the honored guests were Mr. Amram Ben-David, Ashkelon city councilman on left, and Rabbi Pezim, Chabad sheliach to Sderot second from right
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Shluchim Lima'an Shluchim
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Chabad Ashkelon hosted a special forum of shluchim for shluchim. Chabad Rabbis from around the region came to discuss ideas and programs designed to increase Torah study
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South African Jews Support Ashkelon's Children
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The South African Jewish community showed their support to the children of Ashkelon who as of late have been under rocket fire from Gaza. With much love they prepared hundreds of gift packages filled with toys and surprises for the kids, all handled under the caring eye of DIVOTE. To the children of one of Chabad Ashkelon's day care centers this was extra special, as they are still praying for the speedy recovery of their classmate Tair and her mother, wounded in a recent rocket attack. Out thanks to Rabbis Valinkin and Kotner for ditributing these wonderful gifts and of course to our friends in South Africa for sending them
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The girls at Or Chaya recently completed a week dedicated to improving their skill in English. The girls were broken into groups that then competed amongst each other in various language competitions. On the final day the girls "visited" the countries of the world. The week was lead, entirely in English, by young women from the "Masa" program
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Over 4000 Parents and Children Attend Chabad Ashkelon's Lag Bi'Omer Parade
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Over 4000 parents and children attended Chabad Ashkelon's Lag Bi'Omer Parade, the largest Jewish cultural event in the city. The parents and children marched along Ashkelon's central boulevard, with more and more children joining in along the way. All gathered together at Ashkelon's sport stadium where Rabbi Lieberman and Mayor Mahatzri spoke to the large crowd. In addition to the other raffles and prizes given, each child received a secret code to a safe which contained an expensive digital camera
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Drum Squad from Chabad Boys' School Accompany Parade
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Boys from "Or Menachem" lead the large Lag Bi'Omer Parade playing their drums as their music teacher conducted. Thousands of participants were on hand to see their wonderful performance
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Teams from Chai Ashkelon and Chabad visit with the wounded at Barzilai Hospital, Ashkelon. The wounded children were given toys and games and the adults received Books of Psalms and pictures of the Rebbe. The vast majority of the wounded were victims of trauma thus galvanizing Chai to complete the only local Trauma Center as quickly as possible. The Trauma Center will deal with trauma victims after their release from the hospital providing psychological counseling as well as other therapeutic treatments designed to help them cope with the trauma that they have experienced
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A Speedy Recovery to Tair Bat Avital
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Please pray for the speedy recovery of Tair Bat Avital, wounded in a horrendous rocket attack against Ashkelon. Tair is a student at Chai Ashkelon and all of the other students are praying for her well being, as well as that of her mother Avital Bat Penina
Photo AP
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5th Grade girls conducted a series of science experiments using various compounds recently, for many of the girls it was their first time in a working laboratory. All materials were graciously donated by Mr. Gavin Ucko, a friend of Chabad, who has a love for science and successfully helped pass that love along by way of the large assortment of science games & experiments he sent to the girls
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The final semester of the year began immediately after Pesach with the girls returning full of energy after the holiday. The 4th Graders had a special exhibition as part of their "Home Land" course wherein they learn about Ashkelon and surrounding areas
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Rocket Hits Cemetery in Ashkelon
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Numerous graves and headstones were damaged in Ashkelon following a direct hit by a rocket. The above photo was taken after the desecrated graves were already re-filled with dirt. This and other recent attacks leave our children fearful of playing outside, with most trying to stay as close as possible to protected shelters. Chabad Ashkelon is working to open as soon as possible a Regional Trauma Treatment Center, where residents will find therapy rooms & therapists, psychologists, group therapy rooms and everything else they could need for moral and mental support.
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Every year Chai Ashkelon distributes food to the needy during Pesach and this year was no different – with over 720 food packages prepared to help them get through the holiday. Chai Ashkelon warmly thanks all of you who helped make this possible, providing food to those who could not provide for themselves. Unfortunately this is not a one time event, Chai Ashkelon’s Meals-on-Wheels program delivers hundreds of meals daily, throughout the year so your continued donations are appreciated.
DONATE NOW
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Vandalism at Mercaz HaChesed
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Ashkelon's needy don't have anywhere to buy clothes for Pesach! As a direct result of the security situation, when Mercaz HaChesed had to leave their doors unlocked, young vandals totally destroyed the clothing center. Everything of value was stolen, from clothing to shelving on the walls, the rest was thrown on the floor and destroyed. The needy from throughout the area come to Mercaz HaChesed to purchase shoes and clothing at symbolic prices, as well as to find a place that truly cares about them. Now when they truly need something, before Passover, the needy are forced to return home empty handed.
More Pictures
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As part of the "Armies of HaShem" project operated in Chabad Ashkelon's schools, this week the girls got an exciting dividend for their efforts - candies, games and singing! The girls were being rewarded for their high marks in the program, whose scores are based on the girls' actions and activities plus style of dress. The Armies of HaShem is designed to help the children internalize the beauty of Judaism and make it a part of their day to day lives
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10th Graders Learn First Aid
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Chabad's Tenth Grade Students all learned first aid this week, including CPR and how to dress wounds. The course was presented by MDA whose members were amazed at the maturity of the pupils and their desire to help save lives should the need arise, G-d forbid
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Hundreds of Soldiers, Retirees and Emergency Workers Receive Purim Food Packages
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Throughout Purim hundreds of food parcels were distributed to retirement homes, soldiers, firemen and paramedics. The parcels helped to bring them the joy of Purim, especially during Purim Chabad seeks out those that really need the encouragement and joy of the holiday
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This year, due to the stressful security situation, Purim activities were increased throughout the city. At dozens of locations parties were held as well as additional readings of Megillat Esther for hundereds of Ashkelon's residents, all organized by Chai Ashkelon. Chabad also made sure to visit the soldiers on local bases to make sure that they also got to hear the Megillah and to enjoy the festive Purim spirit
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A Purim party was also held at Or Menachem Boys' School this week. Each class prepared an event or two to be enjoyed by the boys in the other grades. Bringing about happiness and brotherhood between the boys
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Shmita Themed Costume Contest
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A costume contest focusing on Shmita was held at Or Menachem. The boys all arrived in original and unique costumes which were then judged by their peers. The goal of the contest was to encourage the pupils to dress in ways that were not just fun but also educational
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A Purim Market was held at Or Chaya, the girls went from stand to stand enjoying various activities, such as: bowling, archery, hide and seek, photography, restaurant and much much more. The girls all arrived in costume and throroughly enjoyed the festive activities
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Or Menachem's 1st graders had a Siddur Party this Monday. The event included blessings from Chai Ashkelon's founder, Rabbi Lieberman, the school principal Rabbi David Kastenbaum and the representative for the parents, Mr. David Sa'ada who warmly blessed the staff for their dedication and devotion to education. He also expressed his appreciation that his twin boys are receiving an excellent education as well as learning the paths of the Rebbe. The entertainment portion included singing, reading and a video clip showing the class learning prayer. The parents warmly thanked the teachers and to Rabbis Kastenbaum and Edrai for their efforts in making the event a success
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Chabad Ashkelon Students Enjoy a Fun Day in Nentanya
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This week the 4th and 5th grade students of Or Menachem received a plesant surprise, Talmud Torah Chabad of Netanyah, under the auspices of Rabbi Barak Cochavi, organized a special day of fun. Covering the expenses of transportation and the special rides and games. The boys enjoyed the time to play and relax, and as a special bonus received falafels at the end of the day. Teachers and students alike were most thankful to their hosts for arranging this free day, especially in light of the stresses associated with the current security situation
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Home Front Command Emergency Drill
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Emergency rocket drill at Chabad boys school, Or Menachem. The pupils run from the basketball court to the safety of the building - 15 seconds. The amount of time it takes for the rocket to hit the rocket from the time it is identified by the security system. It is important to note that currently the building can only protect the boys from shrapnel from a near miss, not a direct hit on the school, G-d forbid. Thanks to friends of Chai Ashkelon construction will soon begin on reinforcement to the building
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Emergency Rocket Drill at Chabad Ashkelon
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After PM Olmert's recent remarks during a visit to Ashkelon that the residents should "get used to" rockets landing in our city, the Home Front Command ordered a test of the early warning system. This video shows the girls of Or Chaya, on their faces you can clearly see a wide range of emotions as a result of their reaction to stress: crying, laughter, indifference, singing and some that even continue working on their homework during the drill
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Laughter Workshop for Chabad Ashkelon Women
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Every month Chabad Ashkelon brings together over 100 local women, in light of the tresses related to the security situation as well as to prepare for the month of Adar, this month's conference was on the subject of "happiness." In addition to Rabbi Orion's Torah teaching, the ladies took part in a special class of "laughter yoga" which left all of the participants grinning from ear to ear
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Volunteers from USA Encourage & Uplift Ashkelon’s Children
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A group of volunteers from Rome, Georgia USA came to encourage and uplift the children and residents of Ashkelon. The volunteers visited the various classes and taught the children how to make balloon art. Since the pupils of both the girls and boys schools are active in the community, the volunteers felt that by learning balloon art the students will then be able to use the new knowledge to amuse and entertain other residents of Ashkelon. For the students and staff it was a special time and they send their heartfelt thanks to the volunteers for coming
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Marzipan Preparation Worskshop
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In anticipation of the Purim holiday, the 7th grade class of Or Menachem had a marzipan preparation workshop. The boys made shapes fitted to Purim and colored them with various food-colorings
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500 Mishloach Manot to Elderly
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Pupils of Or Menachem boys’ school prepared 500 mishloach manot for the elderly and other children this Purim. The food parcels were donated by the Morasha organization in order to encourage the residents of Ashkelon and to show support during these difficult times. Morasha works year round with children in Europe and we thank them for this wonderful gift to the children and elderly of Ashkelon
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Or Menachem Celebrates the Month of Adar
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Keeping with the festive mood of the season, the boys of Or Menachem celebrated Rosh Chodesh Adar. The party was accompanied by guitar playing and singing as the boys had several competitions between themselves, such as a flour competition and lemon juice drinking
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Modern Dance at Siddur Party
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The first grade girls of “Or Chaya” celebrated receiving their first Siddur in a ceremony that represented prayer throughout the year. The crowd particularly enjoyed seeing the girls put to dance a specially written rap style song “Hannuka and Purim” written especially for the celebration. After the party the girls and their mothers wrote prayers to HaShem and attached them to helium filled balloons sent off heavenward. Most of the girls requested that there will be peace and quiet and no more rockets. Following the balloon release everyone went back inside to enjoy a meal befitting the festive occasion
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Bat Mitzva Celebration for 20 Girls in Ashkelon
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Twenty 6th grade students of Or Chaya Girls School celebrated their Bat Mitzva this week in Ashkelon. The big day started with a lavish breakfast at the school, followed by a trip to the Western Wall, culminating with the Bat Mitzva celebrations at Hawaii Event Hall in Be'er Tuvia
The day of the Bat Mitzva is a special day in the lives of the women of Israel, the day in which she takes upon herslef the Torah and Mitzvot and becomes an integral link in the chain of the history of the Jewish people. Therefore, Or Chaya Girls School ensures that the girls get a ceremony that will never be forgotten
During the event, Rabbi Mendel Lieberman , shaliach of the Rebbe and executive director of Chabad Ashkelon, spoke the opening words and blessed the girls with words of Torah. The girls also received kind words from Mr. Itamar Shimoni, candidate for mayor of Ashkelon, MK Yoel Hason (Kadima) and Mr. David and Mrs. Larar who represented the parents
The girls enjoyed dancing and music through the night, helping to make this an unforgettable event for all of the girls. The girls and their parents all thanked Chabad for putting this event together at this time, allowing the girls an evening of fun during this time of stress due to the security situation
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The Actor Chidren Love - Rabbi Michael Weigel
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As a result of the increasing tension due to the security situation, and its affects on the children, Rabbi Michael Weigel made a special visit to the schools of Chabad Ashkelon. The children didn't cease laughing during the performance and each returned to their class with a smile on their face and noticeably more relaxed. We wholeheartedly thank Rabbi Weigel for his visit and the joy he gave to the students
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Working to Raise the Childrens' Spirits
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Great effort is being made at Or Menachem Boys' School to keep the children calm and as stressfree as possible during this difficult period
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Laying of Teffilin and Encouragement At Site of Rocket Attack
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Chabad Ashkelon working to calm and encourage residents of Ashkelon, here taking teffilin to them at site of latest rocket attack. Regarding teffilin it is written “and the nations saw that the name of HaShem is upon you and were thus fearful of you.” After numerous rockets have landed in the area, we have no one but HaShem to thank for keeping us safe
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Following Home Front Command's prohibition on students leaving the building during the school day, pupils must find other ways to enjoy their recess indoors
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Psychologist Dr Shamar Artzi Working With School Directors
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Internationally known psychologist Dr. Shamar Artzi giving professional advice to the directors of Agudat Chabad as to how best handle the current situation. Distraught parents arrive at the schools after every rocket attack to take their children back to their homes. The children cry hysterically after every rocket attack. The schools’ psychological staff has been busy instructing the teachers how to calm the children and encourage the parents during these difficult times
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Games & Activities During Recess
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In accordance with Home Front Command’s instructions, students are forbidden from going outside during recess and must stay in protected areas. At the boys school this is relative as the roof is of tin, so the boys must stay in their classrooms the entire day. Agudat Chabad has started distributing games and other activities to the children to help keep take their minds off of the hardships
Donations of books and board games would be welcomed, Agudat Chabad is planning to distribute them to schools throughout Ashkelon
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Girls School Students Move to Safest Classrooms
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Entire classes of students at Or Chaya Girls School were moved to safe quarters in the event of a rocket attack. Several classes were moved down to basement level in order to provide more than one roof between them and the rockets. It is important to note that Or Menachem Boys School does not have this opportunity, as it is only one floor and has a roof made of tin
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Home Front Command Sends Soldiers
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Soldiers instructing students what to do when the rocket early warning system, Color Red, announces that a rocket has been fired towards Ashkelon
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Chabad Ashkelon sent a letter to the Mayor of Ashkelon and the Home Front Command informing them that the children of Chabad’s institutions are directly exposed to rocket fire due to the fact that their buildings are not reinforced. Rabbi Sharon Cohen is concerned for over 600 children in kindergartens throughout the city, ultimately deciding to move children from 5 of the kindergartens to buildings that provide more protection. Or Menachem Boys School as well as the Chabad yeshiva are located in buildings that only have tin roofing, thus needing immediate concrete reinforcement. According to the opinion of the security officer: “the roof of the school is exposed and the building structure of Or Menachem School is the most dangerous of all educational institutions in the area and the only protection possible is to be provided by going underneath the tables!!!! The cost of reinforcing the buildings is 93,750 shekels. Chabad Ashkelon is committed and determined to do all that is required to ensure the protection of the children
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Chabad Ashkelon Visiting Victims of Recent Rocket Attacks
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Representatives of Chabad Ashkelon went to show support to families whose homes were damaged by rockets. After the direct hit of the Grad rocket the residents of the building are still suffering increased levels of stress and trauma. After seeing the representatives of Chabad the residents immediately began to share not just about their stressful experience but also their miraculous escape from physical injury. After no small amount of encouragement from the Chabad representatives, smiles began to return to their faces. The rocket made a direct hit on the roof of a four storey building, destroying the top apartment and continuing down into the third floor apartment. Miraculously, neither of the apartments were occupied at the moment of impact, with one resident having left just moments before the impact to get her grandson from school.
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PoliceCollecting Rocket Fragments After Explosion Close to Chabad School
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A Grad rocket fell outside the gymnasium of Or Chaya Girls School. During the time of the attack the girls were involved in extracurricular activities and immediately afterward were sent to their homes. The yeshiva students did their studies in the bunker as their normal place of study is a trailer which offers no amount of protection
The video shows soldiers looking for rocket fragments after its detonation. Filmed from one of classrooms
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Instructing Students What To Do In Event Of Rocket Attack
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In Chabad schools throughout the week there are "rocket falling exercises" as required by the city's security officer
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The students of the " Musific" - terrific music- club had great fun decorating a wall in their music classroom with finger paints
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Mothers and daughters shared an enjoyable evening, ushering in the joyous month of Adar. The girls of the ballet club preformed very gracefully. The students actively participated in a competition on joy. The mothers and daughters joined in dancing and singing with the accompaniment of lively music. The students exhibited their imagination and skill in their artistic drawings on the topic of joy.
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Annual Women's Convention
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Neshei Chabad organize monthly gatherings for women, run a Shifra and Puah program to assist mothers after birth, weekly torah classes and other projects during the year. The highlight of their activities is the annual convention commemorating Rebbetzin Chaya Mushka Shneeersohn OB"M, the wife of the late Lubavitcher Rebbe. Over 700 women of attended this year's 20th convention in the Armonot Lev hall.
The Mayor and other dignitaries attended. Knesset member Marina Solodkin greeted the women warmly. The program included an inspiring keynote speaker, dance, videos, inspiring firsthand stories, humor and singing, all with the theme of connecting to G-D through prayer. Each woman received a souvenir. The tables were beautifully set with a Melava malka meal and many prizes were raffled. The women enjoyed a very uplifting evening, the result of long months of planning and joint efforts of many volunteers
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The Tzivot Hashem of the Or Chaya school coordinated a tying the knot project. Each student collected strings which were tied together class by class. The sixth grade won with the longest string. This was another monthly project which the students enjoy and participate in actively. These activities create a warm and special atmosphere amongst the students
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Festive Day at the Or Chaya High School
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The eleventh graders organized a week of kindness for the high school classes. Participation in the various projects earned coupons. The climax of the week was a meal at the restaurant. The girls cashed in their coupons for delicious food prepared by the talented eleventh graders. The food was donated by many local stores
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Yiska and Hodaya Shlomos' father decided to surprise his daughters and their schoolmates with a truckload of fresh snow from Jerusalem. For many students it was their first encounter with snow and they were thrilled to feel the snow and play with it
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The Chesed Center of Chabad organized an elegant Bar Mitzvah for 30 boys in the Or Chaya school hall. Each boy received a pair of tefillin, a watch and a tailored suit and gifts. The evening was organized by Rabbi S. Ohayon, the director of the Chesed Center. He succeeded in making it a unique event for the boys and their families. Among the guests attending were the chief Rabbis of Ashkelon, Knesset member Rabbi Porush, supporters and sponsors of the Chabad Center, Chabad emissaries in Ashkelon and other dignitaries of the city.
Shlomi Ganon,one of the boys, gave a very emotional speech thanking the organizers of the bar mitzvah on behalf of his mother and family, along with his pain that his father ob"m was not with them to celebrate this special day in his life. For many children this is the biggest celebration they will have for their Bar Mitzvah.
Pictures by Yisroel Elison
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Sefer Torah Honoring Aryeh Moshe Ben Yisroel Milgrom
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With much joy and festivity, Chabads Or Menachem boys school ushered in a new Sefer Torah into the school. The Torah was donated by Mr. Milgrom in merit of his son Aryeh Moshe Ben Yisroel.The procession began at the Or Chaya's school and proceeded to the Or Menachem school with music, singing and dancing. The students were happy and excited to receive a Ttorah of their own, as till now they had to borrow one for their prayers
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Special Program Together with the Ministry of Education
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Over 70 experts in the field of special education from southern Israel, from Elad, Sderot, Ashkelon and Netivot, gathered for an enrichment evening. Mrs. Suisa, the special education national supervisor, presented the success of the Chabad's Special Ed Therapeutic Kindergarten as extraordinary. Participating were Mrs. Pinnis, principal of Matya in Ashkelon, Mrs. Weiss, national supervisor of preschools, Mrs. Shmuel, coordinator of Matya and superviors Mrs. Shein, Mrs. Silberman and Mrs. Shalom.The program began with a tour of the kindergarten, Snoezelan and therapy rooms. All were impressed by the noticeable investment in the kindergarten. The tour was followed by lectures concerning special education and guidelines for referring children to special education
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Contest Scholastic Achievement
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Rare collector coins and hundreds of dollars will be awarded to students excelling in their studies. The valuable coins will be able to be sold and used as scholarships. The rare collection of coins was donated in merit of Dr. Avraham Refael Miller may he be blessed with a speedy recovery. Dr. Miller is a longtime friend and staunch supporter of Chabad Ashkelon
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Roughly 300 fathers and students gathered in the early morning hours for slichot at Or Menachem Boys' School
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Studies Have Begun at Shlavim Center
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2nd Grade Girls Welcome 1st Graders
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Back to School at Or Menachem
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Maayan Tamar Fundraising Campaign
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Maayan Tamar, a non profit organization, launched a campaign to raise funds for the completion of the elegant Mikvah being built in the Barnea neighborhood of Ashkelon. The organization was set up in memory of the righteous Tamar Elmakaes ob"m who helped many children in distress. The beautiful Mikvah is being built with the participation of the municipality and Chabad Ashkelon. Rabbi Lieberman, the Luibavitcher Rebbe's emissary to Ashkelon and executive director of Chabad in the city, has supervised the building. The Mikvah which is being built under the highest standards and most modern décor, is in the final stages of building.
The campaign has been launched to be able to complete the building. Maayan Tamar turns to contractors and skilled workers to participate in this important project by donating building materials and skills. They also turn to the public for their help in meriting to bring the Mikvah to completion
Donations may be sent to Mr. Nisim Segev CPA , Maayan Tamar Organization, P.O.B. 380 Ashkelon
or directly deposited to Maayan Tamar Bank Leumi Branch 925 Account # 2290358.
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Joint Project of Chabad and the Jewish Agency
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Project 'Masa' of the Jewish Agency sponsors post high school students' studies in Israel. The students combine academic studies with trips and activities to learn about the land and culture.
Or Chaya and the students of the 'Masa' program, who learn in the Bet Rivka Seminary in Kfar Chabad, run biweekly projects in school. These include dance, ceramics, arts and more. The students enjoy these extra curriculum activities and express their gratitude to the Seminary and Jewish Agency for the experience.
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Chabad Youth Volunteers
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Agudat Chabad runs a weekly volunteer network of teens. They visit old age homes, the children's class in the Barzilai hospital and special needs children as part of the Friendship Circle.
Pictured are students from the Or Chaya High School in the children's ward.
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Fun Day for Students Of Chabad Schools
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Students and their families were invited to take a break from the war and spend a day in Kfar Chabad. The turnout was much greater than expected. The children and their parents were happy to be in the fresh air without fear of falling rockets. A few little children asked the organizers "Are you sure there are no rockets and we can play outside?"
The activities included games, a magician,contests and a lunch. Chabad of Ashkelon thank the municipality if Emek Lod for sponsoring the program.
Join and Help
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visiting all the bomb shelters
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Aid to Ashkelon
Members of Chabad of Ashkelon are visiting all the bomb shelters. The picture that emerges is a difficult one. Many shelters are located in poor neighborhoods. There is a lack of basic supplies, food, heaters and blankets.
Rabbi Lieberman, executive director of Chabad Ashkelon calls upon you to help. Your assistance is vital for people in distress. Supplies needed are food that does not need refrigeration, toasters, hot plates, radiators, books, games and more.
Those who wish to assist please call 054-4253241
email office@CAshkelon
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Bringing Encouragement to the Bunkers
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After nearly two weeks spent in bunkers due to the intense rocket fire Chai Ashkelon has been going from bunker to bunker, there are 614 in Ashkelon, bringing as much encouragement as the situation allows
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Closing a Circle - Rabbi and Student
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With every rocket explosion you find frightened citizens who feel that they were miraculously saved from injury but nonetheless terrified at the new reality. At each site emmissaries of Chai Ashkelon arrive and pass out Psalms as well as lay tefillin with the residents. Members of Chai Ashkelon are constantly visiting the numerous bunkers around the city with encouraging words, a warm meal and toys for the children. In the photo Rabbi Lieberman, founder of Chai Ashkelon, meets with a graduate of Chai's educational system - now a soldier defending our homeland
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Ashkelon Residents Get Decorated Bunkers
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Many residents of Ashkelon have followed the instructions of the Home Front Command and have moved into the numerous bomb shelters in the city due to the intense rocket fire raining down on us. Some of these bunkers are used by Chai Ashkelon during peaceful times as recreation areas for children as well as shiyurim. Expecting a wave of residents, Chai Ashkelon embarked on a program to add as much joy to the bunkers as could be done by bringing in extra games, bedding, clothing and food for the frightened residents
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Visiting the Children in Hospital's Bunker
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With ever increasing rocket fire on Ashkelon and the surrounding cities the Home Front Command had the childrens' ward of Barzilai Hospital moved into the hospital bunker. Several days before we visited with many of these children during Hannukah, now we return once again to help bring some joy into the constant fear felt by all residents of Southern Israel. During this period we are also organizing activities for the soldiers in the region as well as for many elderly who have no family to check after their well being
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Hakahel Gathering in Memorium of the Mumbai Victims
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A special Hakahel gathering was held this week in the memory of the shluchim murdered in Mumbai. All of the anash of the area came together to strengthen their connection during these trying times. The gathering was funded by a generous gift from Keren Ezrat Menachem Israel-France
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Lighting the Childrens' Ward at Barzilai Hospital
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As we do every year Chai Ashkelon together with its founder Rabbi Lieberman brings as much joy as possible to the children hospitalized at Barzilai. After a festive lighting ceremony, followed by doughnuts and singing and games, each child received a valuable toy prize. Much thanks to our donors who helped us bring smiles to these unfortunate children
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Chai Ashkelon Lites Up the City
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Public Hannukah lightings were held throughout the city with each evening bringing out scores who participated together with Chai Ashkelon. A large Menorah was also placed in each of Ashkelon's many traffic circles, bringing the light of the miracles of Hannuka to all
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Congratulations to Our New Mayor - Mr. Benny Vaknin
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Recently elected mayor of Ashkelon, Mr. Benny Vaknin, visited the numerous institutions of Chai Ashkelon during his campaign. We wish him luck and congratulations as he enters the Ashkelon municipality
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New Equipment for the Science Laboratories
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Thanks to a donation from the Shoresh Foundation, Chai Ashkelon was able to purchase desperately needed equipment for our science laboratories. The addition of this equipment will help the children with their matriculation exams. Last year alone over 95% of our children finished with some of the highest scores in the country! Our heartfelt thanks to the Shoresh Foundation for helping our children secure a brighter future through good education
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Children Protest for Protection
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The parents association of Or Menachem protested this week to get better protection for their sons. Or Menachem is considered by the Home Front Command to be a tragedy waiting to happen - with only a thin sheet of tin roofing between them and incoming rockets. Two minutes walk from Or Menachem is a fully protected reinforced building ready for students, with over twenty five empty classrooms which is what the parents of the boys at Or Menachem are demanding for their children's protection
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Shlavim Center - Getting Ready
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Chai Ashkelon is getting ready for the full opening of the Shlavim Center to the general public of Ashkelon. The three kindergartens on the first floor are operating at full capacity however we are still lacking the needed $221,500 to complete the second floor. In addition to housing some of the most advanced therapy options for special needs children to be found in Ashkelon, the second floor will also contain the only Trauma Therapy Center in the city of Ashkelon - desperately needed following the increase of enemy rocket fire
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Security Situation Deteriorates
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Security situation for the residents of Ashkelon has deteriorated further following the launching of several Grad rockets towards the city. The rockets landed in a school's running track, fortunately the children had sought shelter after hearing the warning siren and no one was physically hurt though several were treated for shock
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Special Kinus for Boys of Or Menachem
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Along with their fathers the boys of Or Menachem participated in a special kinus on Friday comemorating two weeks of intensive study on the subject of prayer and its importance.Rabbi Lieberman, founder and chairman of Chai Ashkelon, welcomed the boys and their fathers and commended them on their participation. Special diplomas and certificates were awarded to the four boys with the highest grades following two weeks of study, projects and workshops
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Misibat Sidur for Boys of Or Menachem
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The first grade class of Or Menachem celebrated receiving their first siddurim by having a festive day in Jerusalem. Starting off with shacharit at the Kotel, followed by their doing a special song presentation at 770 House on the joy of prayer, the day was topped off with them and their families having a lavish meal together in the Holy City
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Or Chaya Girls Running for Shelter as Rockets Head Towards Ashkelon
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A fault in the early warning system meant that the alarm did not sound in Or Chaya as a second volley of rockets headed toward Ashkelon today. However the ever vigilant guard heard sirens in the distance and was able to help get the girls to safety in time. The boys school, Or Menachem, is still unprotected. Having only a single floor the boys have nowehere to run when the sirens go off
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Sefer Torah for Ohel Hasidei Avraham
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This week war weary residents of Ashkelon had special reason to celebrate as a new synagogue, mikveh and sefer Torah were dedicated in one evening! Dozens of residents from around the city came together to march along with Chai Ashkelon with the newly dedicated sefer Torah
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Thousands Participate at Beit Hashava in Ashkelon
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As it has for years, Chai Ashkelon a celebratory evening for the residents of Ashkelon during Beit Hashava. Rabbi Lieberman, founder of Chai Ashkelon, welcomed all in attendance and encouraged them to participate in the joy of the evening. Singing, dancing, prizes and raffles lifted the spirits of all! Chai Ashkelon gratefully acknowledges our friends around the world whose assistance helped to bring this wonderful evening to the people of Ashkelon
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