A Powerful Anniversary Tribute
to Israel on October 7
On the solemn anniversary of the October 7 attack, the Jersey Shore community and Rabbis gathered to commemorate the tragic events of the past year and pray for the strength and resilience of the Jewish people.
Over 1500 people filled the DSN Beach Club, standing together in support of Israel and reflecting on the profound connection that has only grown since that fateful day. The evening began with a moment of silence, marked by the powerful sound of a foghorn, creating a poignant atmosphere of remembrance. Nechamia Katz’s stirring rendition of Hatikvah followed, filling the air with hope and pride, as all stood united.
Jeffrey Saka began the night, offering heartfelt words of welcome and gratitude. “We feel very fortunate at DSN to host this Night of Unity commemorating the tragic events of Oct 7th. We’ve had so many wonderful programs throughout the year keeping Israel at the forefront. We are so proud of our team and community. The impact is everlasting and far reaching.”
In a surprise guest appearance, renowned singer Yakov Shweky captivated the audience with three deeply moving songs, including Im Eshkachech Yerushalayim (If I forget thee, O Jerusalem), a song that perfectly encapsulated the community’s shared longing for peace in Israel.
Leading community rabbis joined on stage, including Rabbi Shlomo Diamond, Rabbi Saul Kassin, Rabbi Elie Abadi, Rabbi David Tawil, Rabbi Joseph Dana, Rabbi Chaim Arking, Rabbi Joey Dayon, Rabbi Moshe Malka, Rabbi Moshe Doueck, Rabbi Label Shapiro, Rabbi Ari Katz, Rabbi Moses Hidary, Rabbi Yaakov Sadigh, Rabbi Nasanayl Braun, Rabbi Avi Yagen, and Rabbi Ozeri.
Victoria Sutton, DSN Executive Board Member and Chairperson of Beach Club Events & Marketing, orchestrated the evening as it transitioned into a beautiful prayer and torch-lighting ceremony, with prayers for the hostages, the IDF and the State of Israel. A stunning Magen David candelabra, skillfully crafted by Matania Aharonovitz, became the centerpiece as Rabbis lit the candles, symbolizing the eternal light of the Jewish people.
Rabbi Kassin shared inspiring Divrei Torah, recounting past trips to Israel and reminding the audience of the sacred bond between the Jewish people and the land. Rabbi Dayon followed with the introduction of a touching DSN montage video, showcasing the 65 Israel-related events and programs DSN has hosted over the past year, highlighting the community’s dedication to Israel. He concluded, “Throughout our history, putting aside our differences and uniting has always brought about salvation! BH in this merit we will bring the final redemption speedily”.
The audience was especially moved by the words of Yoni Diller, a survivor of the Nova tragedy and activist, who was introduced by Rabbi Shapiro, and shared his powerful story of survival and hope for the future. Yoni later said how he was “deeply thankful for the opportunity to speak for such an amazing and supportive crowd”. Israel Portnoy, a talented musician, then performed Shema Yisrael, bringing many to tears with his soulful performance.
The evening continued as the audience was honored to hear a Divrei Torah from Rabbi Diamond that encouraged reflection and gratitude. Rabbi Braun followed and introduced Bar Reuven, a reserve combat officer in Unit 669, sharing his experiences as a soldier in this elite special search and rescue unit. Nechamia Katz and Israel Portnoy followed with a beautiful duet rendition of Ten Li Tefilah (Give Me One Prayer) and the night concluded with the entire crowd joining together in a rousing rendition of Am Yisrael Chai, a declaration of the enduring strength and unity of the Jewish people.
Special thanks were given to Ricky Esses, who generously donated his expertise in sound and video, and to Marjorie Ayash, whose photos will help capture the evening’s memory.
As attendees waved Israeli flags, the evening’s message was clear: the essence of the Jewish people is unity, and through strength in numbers and faith, there is no limit to what can be achieved. DSN President Lee Zekaria was proud. “Led by our incredible Rabbis, it was so heartwarming to see our community come together on this night”.
Victoria Sutton, visionary of the event, summarized all of the feelings. “Tonight was filled with so many emotions. Being together on this one-year anniversary of October 7th meant everything. Unity and community are at the heart of DSN and since that day in 2023 we have continuously shown our love and support for our brothers and sisters in Israel. Over the past year so much has happened; with more than 65 Israeli events, we feel incredibly blessed to have shared these moments together and will always cherish the wonderful people we have met and the relationships and friendships formed. Our DSN family has grown closer and stronger than ever. BH. May this year bring home the return of all of the hostages, safety for the state of Israel, and peace for Jews around the world.” It was an emotional, inspiring, and deeply spiritual evening. With Hashem’s guidance, DSN and the Jersey Shore community look forward to accomplishing even more together in the years ahead. Am Yisrael Chai!
