Event hosts David and Leah Brecher (far right) and family with Mariano Rivera
The summer calls for grilling, chilling, and baseball. Then what do you get when you have Ohel, friends, family, an amazing open backyard, barbecue, and a Yankees legend in attendance? An awesome start to the summer season!
Mariano Rivera, former star pitcher for the New York Yankees, came out to support Ohel at an exclusive pre-Father’s Day barbecue at the home of David and Leah Brecher in Lawrence.
The evening began with a special meet-and-greet for VIPs who had the chance to take part in one-on-one time with the Yankees legend, complete with appetizing sushi bar courtesy of Schick Caterers. Fans took pictures, mingled, and acquired autographs on limited-edition Ohel commemorative Mariano Rivera baseballs.
Afterwards there was a baseball toss during which the kids got to have a catch with Rivera—truly the thrill of a lifetime for any young baseball fan. Children that were formerly part of Ohel’s foster-care program also had the privilege to meet and take photos with Rivera.
At the open barbecue, the “OHEL Red Carpet” was ready for Ohel friends to take photos with Rivera. Guests came from as far as Teaneck and Elizabeth, New Jersey.
Participants took part in a special Mariano Rivera Q&A session with Aaron Jungreis as emcee. The Q&A gave a chance for attendees to submit personal or professional questions for Rivera to answer. He opened the session by speaking about his admiration for Ohel’s work, his humble roots in Panama, his journey to becoming a Yankees pitcher, his dedication to religion, staying in shape, and, of course, baseball.
He also reflected on various highlights from his Yankees career, such as being the last player to wear #42, his favorite baseball players, going from starter to reliever, and dealing with the pressure of being in the bullpen.
When asked “Who taught you to throw the cutter?” Rivera, without missing a beat, responded, “I didn’t learn to throw the cutter; the L‑rd gave it to me.”
Aaron Jungreis, speaking for the audience and the Jewish community at large, complimented Rivera by stating, “The people in this community respect that you are so religious, besides that you have so much dignity and that you’re the best closer ever, but you’re so humble and modest and we all respect you for that.”
Robert Katz, Ohel’s chief development officer, reflected, “In their remarks, both David Brecher and Aaron Jungreis perfectly captured the essence of Mariano Rivera and that’s why we chose to work with him, in order to truly benefit Ohel’s children and families.”
In the areas of confidence and sports performance, Rivera related, “Being nervous is a part of being a human being,” making issues such as anxiety and self-esteem prevalent even for a Yankees pitcher. Ohel offers individuals many services and opportunities to help overcome personal obstacles in order to reach their fullest potential.
As a special surprise gift for the host, Rivera threw a closing pitch to David Brecher. The hundreds in attendance all stood and cheered.
Generous corporate sponsors of the event were FM Home Loans, Rosewood Realty Group, and Omni Managed Health.
Since 1969, Ohel has served as a dependable haven of individual and family support, helping people of all ages surmount disability and everyday challenges, heal from trauma, and manage with strength and dignity during times of crisis. Ohel’s record of service excellence, stellar reputation, and consistent top ratings in regulatory audits in foster care, housing, outpatient counseling, day programs, and Camp Kaylie has enabled it to deliver cutting-edge programs serving the ever-increasing and diverse needs of the community. Ohel serves thousands in need every day in communities in New York, New Jersey, South Florida, Los Angeles, California, and worldwide.
Individuals interested in the many programs that Ohel offers should call 800-603-OHEL (6435). “Like” OHEL Children’s Home and Family Services on Facebook and follow on Instagram at Instagram.com/ohelfamily. v
New Flag-Football League Starting After Summer
A new flag-football league for yeshiva students in grades 1–8 is slated to start after the summer. The league will be run by Rabbi Eli Brazil and all games will be played at North Woodmere Park on Friday afternoons. This league will provide a great outlet for boys who would like to learn and play competitive flag football. The league will be supervised as well by Mr. Larry Gross, coach of the DRS Wildcats Hockey team. All games will be reffed and coached by responsible college or high-school students. Opening day will be Friday, September 9. All participants will be evaluated before the league begins to ensure fair teams. If you are interested in signing up or finding out more about the league, visit www.5townsflagfootball.com. v
MTA JV Softball Hits Its Way To The Championship Game
By Akiva Richman
The MTA JV Softball Lions team played HAFTR last Friday in the semifinals. Both teams scored a run in the first inning; in the second inning, HAFTR scored another run, but MTA was able to score three runs, making the score 4–2. MTA’s second run of the game came home thanks to a solo homer by Chaim Weinstein. Later in the game, a HAFTR player hit a double, but was then called out when MTA appealed the play at first base, since the HAFTR player missed the bag on his way to second. At one point, Eitan Pfeiffer, MTA’s pitcher, was in a tough battle against one of HAFTR’s hitters. After seven pitches, Pfeiffer won the battle by making a full extension diving catch in foul territory. After a little more scoring, MTA scored 2 insurance runs in the sixth inning, and won 7–4. The Lions are now headed to face DRS in the championship game, scheduled to take place Sunday morning, June 19, at Frisch Field. v