[Congressional Record Volume 149, Number 176 (Tuesday, December 9, 2003)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E2489]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




COMMEMORATING THE 50TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE YOUNG ISRAEL OF NEW HYDE PARK

                                 ______
                                 

                         HON. GARY L. ACKERMAN

                              of new york

                    in the house of representatives

                        Monday, December 8, 2003

  Mr. ACKERMAN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in honor of the 50th 
anniversary of Young Israel of New Hyde Park, the only Orthodox 
synagogue in northeast Queens. The synagogue, which boasts a vibrant 
multi-generational membership, plays a central role in increasing the 
presence and awareness of Orthodox Judaism in our community.
  For half a century, Young Israel of New Hyde Park has provided its 
members and visitors with many of the things that an Orthodox family 
looks for and needs: from classes to daily minyanim to a local Boy 
Scout troop. Now under the leadership of Rabbi Binyamin Hammer, the 
synagogue, which is just around the corner from Long Island Jewish 
Medical Center, Hillside Hospital and Schneider Children's Medical 
Center, has long been known as a place where families and friends of 
patients can find religious support and Shabbat and Yom Tov 
hospitality. To this end, a bikur cholim apartment was recently added 
through the purchase of a house next door to the synagogue. To date it 
has provided temporary lodging for people from all over the United 
States, Russia, Italy, Israel and Canada.
  Those familiar with this congregation, those who, for 50 years have 
made it a place of civic support and spiritual development, know that 
Young Israel is more than just a temple--but a shul, a spiritual home, 
a place that reflects the highest aspirations of an ancient people 
living proud and free in this great nation.
  I commend Young Israel of New Hyde Park for its continued dedication 
to our community. I ask my colleagues in the House of Representatives 
to please join me in congratulating the synagogue on the occasion of 
its 50th anniversary and in wishing Young Israel best wishes for 
another 50 years.

                          ____________________