Queens Jewish Link Networking  Expo Brings Community Together For Evening Of Recognition, Inspiration, And Connection

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Hundreds gathered at Young Israel of Jamaica Estates (YIJE) on Wednesday evening, February 18, as the Queens Jewish Link hosted its annual Networking Expo — an evening that blended professional networking with heartfelt recognition, community pride, and meaningful messages of Jewish unity at a time when connection feels more important than ever.

The evening opened with words of reflection led by Rabbi Dr. Dov Lerner, Rabbi of YIJE, who recited T’hilim together with the audience. He was followed by Rabbi Daniel Rosenfelt, Rabbi of Young Israel of Kew Gardens Hills and the publication’s local rabbinic advisor, whose remarks helped set a thoughtful and uplifting tone for the night ahead.

Program host Nachum Segal, host of JM in the AM on 91.1 FM airing Monday through Friday, thanked Rabbi Lerner and the synagogue leadership for opening their doors to the community. He spoke about how the Queens Jewish Link has grown over the years into more than a newspaper — becoming a familiar and trusted presence that helps keep neighbors informed, connected, and engaged with what matters most to Jewish life both locally and in Israel.

Co-Publisher Yaakov Serle began by thanking Hashem and recognizing those who worked behind the scenes to make the evening possible, including myself, Donny Hoschander, and co-publisher Naftali Szrolovits. He reflected on a recent appearance on WABC’s Sid & Friends in the Morning, hosted by Sid Rosenberg — himself an honoree later that evening — explaining that the interview served as a lead-up to the event and highlighted the importance of strengthening Jewish unity during a challenging moment.

During that radio conversation, Serle recalled, Rosenberg asked fellow honoree Rabbi Yaniv Meirov how Jews should respond to rising hostility and uncertainty. Rabbi Meirov’s answer was simple but powerful: Aleph stands for emunah, faith, and Beis stands for bitachon, trust in Hashem. No matter what unfolds in politics or around the world, he said, Jews must remember that there is purpose and guidance beyond what we see.

Serle connected that message to the purpose of the evening itself. Torah learning strengthens the soul, he explained, while gatherings like this help people meet, collaborate, and support one another. Quoting Orthodox Jewish Chamber of Commerce founder Rabbi Duvi Honig, he reminded attendees that “your network is your net worth,” encouraging guests to take full advantage of the opportunity to connect.

Sponsors reflected the broad spectrum of communal and professional life that makes Queens unique, including: Alan Sherman; Ateret Cohanim; Barry & Regina Cik; Mr. & Mrs. Binyamin Sdayeb; Boulevard Assisted Living Community; Boots for Israel; Glenn Pollack of PGS; Kenneth Paek; Kew Forest Republican Club; Mendy & Hindy Laster of Bättr; Legacy Workplace Solutions; Mercaz Daf Yomi; Moshe Spern; Mr. & Mrs. Moshe Meirov; Olam Realty Group; Orthodox Jewish Chamber of Commerce; Pathway Funding; Philip Wang; R’ Dr. Joe and Karen Frager; Ronen Nahom; Shalom & Victoria Zirkiev; District Leader Shimi Pelman; The Orlow Firm; VHQ; and YU Global.

We show special appreciation to Power Media for enhancing event promotion through elegant bus-stop signage across the community, Avi Conway of Prime Media Distribution, and numerous Jewish print media outlets whose coverage helped spread the word. We also thank Dr. Paul Brody, one of last year’s honorees, for arranging official proclamations honoring this year’s recipients from Nassau County Legislator Mazi Melesa Pilip.

The evening’s musical program featured internationally renowned chazzan Nissim Saal, whose powerful voice immediately lifted the room. Alongside a moving rendition of “God Bless America,” Saal performed several beloved Jewish and inspirational selections that added warmth and emotion, drawing the audience into the spirit of the evening.

A central highlight was the recognition of the NYPD’s 107th Precinct for its ongoing partnership with and protection of the Queens Jewish community. Assemblymember Sam Berger reflected on the difficult weeks following October 7, recalling how fear spread quickly throughout Jewish neighborhoods and institutions. He pointed in particular to the recent pro-Hamas rally that drew outside agitators into Kew Gardens Hills, noting that officers from the 107th Precinct were on the ground throughout, ensuring residents, families, and local shuls remained safe.

“Without hesitation, the 107th was there,” Berger said. “Protecting every shul, every school, and making sure our children were safe. They’re not just serving the community — they’re part of it.”

Assemblymember David Weprin echoed those sentiments, noting that throughout his many years representing the district, the precinct has consistently maintained a close and respectful relationship with local residents.

One of the evening’s most emotional moments came as Holocaust survivor Sami Steigmann was honored for his lifelong dedication to Holocaust education. Introduced by veteran broadcaster Zev Brenner, Steigmann shared reflections from a life marked by unimaginable hardship yet defined by resilience and purpose.

Speaking calmly but with deep conviction, he explained that recent attempts to silence his educational appearances ultimately strengthened his resolve.

“This is not my victory,” he said. “It is a victory for Holocaust survivors and for the Jewish people — that we will not be silenced.”

Quoting the Haggadah ahead of Pesach, he reminded the audience that in every generation there are those who rise against the Jewish people — yet the Jewish people endure. “We are here to stay,” he declared, drawing sustained applause.

Rabbi Yaniv Meirov, CEO of Chazaq, was then honored as Defender of the Jewish Spirit. Speakers highlighted Chazaq’s remarkable impact since 2006, including helping more than 2,000 students transition from public school into yeshivah education — changes that have strengthened families and reshaped Jewish futures.

In his remarks, Rabbi Meirov gently shifted attention away from himself and toward a message fitting for the approaching month of Adar.

“Hashem is constantly sending blessings,” he said. “The challenge is knowing how to catch them. When a person smiles, the blessings can enter.”

His message of joy and perspective resonated deeply with attendees, reminding many that even during difficult times, optimism itself can be an act of faith.

Longtime Queens Jewish Link feature columnist Moshe Hill, of Hill with a View, then presented the Golden Defender of Israel honor to WABC radio personality Sid Rosenberg, praising his outspoken advocacy and consistent support for Israel and the Jewish people following October 7.

Rosenberg delivered an energetic and deeply personal address filled with humor, candor, and emotion. Reflecting on how recent events reshaped his connection to Jewish identity, he spoke openly about visiting Israel and witnessing firsthand the aftermath of terror attacks.

“When you see what happened, you can’t stay quiet,” he said. “No one else is going to fight for us. We have to stand up ourselves. We have to keep fighting.”

He urged the audience to remain proud, united, and unapologetic, emphasizing that Jewish resilience has always depended on courage and communal strength.

Following the formal program, guests moved into the networking portion of the evening, enjoying cuisine provided by SoySauce Glatt Kosher Chinese Takeout and Top Notch Sushi, along with wine tastings courtesy of Hakerem Wine & Liquor. Conversations filled the room as professionals, community leaders, and neighbors connected, exchanged ideas, and strengthened relationships.

Professional photography for the evening was provided by Saul Joseph and Barry Brown, capturing moments that reflected both the celebratory atmosphere and the genuine sense of community that defined the night.

By evening’s end, the Queens Jewish Link Networking Expo once again accomplished what it set out to do — bringing people together not only to honor leadership and advocacy, but to reinforce the bonds that continue to sustain Jewish life throughout Queens.