Israel’s 75th birthday, Yom Ha’atzmaut, was celebrated at the Hebrew Institute of Riverdale-The Bayit with the entire Riverdale community. Musical Director Jonathan Dzik directed a singalong as several hundred people enjoyed a free kosher dinner, provided and donated by longtime HIR members Martin and Smadar Taub. Children enjoyed the face painting, balloons, clowns and playground activities.

Bronx Borough President Vanessa Gibson spoke at length to those present and the Bayit’s Senior Rabbi Steven Exler, praising the HIR synagogue members and the synagogue’s extensive programs. Earlier, Bronx Borough District Attorney Darcel Clark, the first woman to hold that office, and the first woman of color to serve as a district attorney in the history of New York State, addressed those at the celebration. Both spoke of their support for the Jewish community.

Robert Kalfus can be reached at [email protected].