DSN marked two deeply meaningful occasions with heartfelt community-wide events honoring both Yom Hazikaron and Yom Ha’atzmaut. Through remembrance, unity, celebration, and prayers for Israel, community members gathered to commemorate these important days.
Yom Hazikaron was observed on Monday, April 20 at the DSN Beach Club, where nearly 200 attendees came together for a powerful and emotional evening dedicated to remembering Israel’s fallen soldiers and victims of terrorist attacks. The event was organized with the help of dedicated volunteers including Ayelet Maman, Yoav Maman, Ilay Maman, Yael and Tomer Ohayon, Daniella Benun, Adi Bersano, and injured IDF soldier Tamir Dudi.
Guests heard moving remarks from a ZAKA volunteer on October 7th, sharing firsthand experiences from the tragic scenes he witnessed and spoke candidly about the emotional journey of healing. IDF soldier Tamir Dudi also addressed the audience, reflecting on the many friends and fellow soldiers he lost during his service. He reminded attendees that every fallen soldier was more than a name, they were fathers, mothers, sons, daughters, brothers, sisters, and heroes deeply loved by those around them.
Rabbi Joseph Dana and Rabbi David Tawil led heartfelt prayers for Israel’s soldiers and recited Yizkor memorial prayers. The evening concluded with attendees lighting memorial candles and singing an especially emotional rendition of Hatikva, Israel’s national anthem. Each participant was given a memorial candle bearing the name of a fallen soldier to light again at home, continuing the remembrance beyond the evening itself.
DSN Event Coordinator Jennifer Sasson reflected on the significance of the gathering, saying, “Yom Hazikaron was a night filled with such meaning for our community. Everyone came together to remember those who have fallen. It was a night filled with incredible depth, unity, and meaning.”
Just two days later, on Wednesday, April 22, the community shifted from solemn remembrance to joyful celebration as the DSN Community Center hosted a vibrant Yom Ha’atzmaut family event attended by over 1,000 people. The gymnasium was transformed into a lively Israeli-inspired street fair, complete with a mock shuk, marketplace, festive music, food attractions, and interactive activities for children and families.
The event was made possible through the hard work and dedication of volunteers, including Honey Dayan and Jacqueline Musry. The celebration was held in memory of Jacqueline’s father-in-law, Maurice Musry a”h, whose life was deeply dedicated to Israel and whose love and passion for Israel left a lasting impact on all who knew him.
Guests enjoyed dinner by Nicole’s Kitchen, along with favorite treats from Lighthouse and Sylvia’s Candy. DJ Shatz kept the energy high as attendees danced proudly with Israeli flags waving in the air. Children enjoyed army-themed inflatable attractions and participated in a meaningful activity by writing letters to IDF soldiers.
Frieda Shamah, DSN Youth Director, shared, “Seeing our community come together to celebrate Israel with such incredible energy, pride, and unity was beyond anything we imagined. The overwhelming love and support for Israel could be felt throughout the entire event, making the night truly unforgettable.”
Jacqueline Musry reflected on the evening, saying, “Yom Ha’atzmaut this year was one of our best yet. Seeing everyone coming together to celebrate the State of Israel brought me to tears. It was true achdut, unity! Different schools, shuls, and area codes didn’t matter, we were all there together, united in happiness and pride, celebrating the Land of Israel and Am Yisrael, the people of Israel. It was an event I will never forget.”
DSN’s Executive Director Sammy Sitt summarized the impact of the two events. “These events beautifully reflected our community’s deep connection to Israel, first by honoring those who made the ultimate sacrifice, and then by celebrating the miracle of a Jewish state. I am proud that DSN continues to stand at the forefront of Israel-related programming, which remains an integral part of our mission.”
