The Hebrew Theological College hosted nearly 250 guests on January 27 at their 37th Annual Melave Malka in Skokie, Illinois. During the evening emceed by Rabbi Yehiel Kalish, Rabbi Shmuel L. Schuman, CEO of HTC, presented the Rabbi Herman Davis Memorial Scholarships to a most deserving beis midrash and college student, Zalman Cohen.

The highlight of the evening was the keynote address by Mr. Moishe Bane, president of the Orthodox Union. Mr. Bane’s topic was “Three Existential Threats to American Orthodoxy.” The keynote address touched on the dangers of the internet, challenges of Jewish identity and ethics issues in the community. Throughout the weekend, Mr. Bane spoke at many shuls and community gatherings about the work of the Orthodox Union; these meetings included visits with the leadership of Midwest NCSY and Chicago Yachad. The Blitstein Institute for Women, a division of HTC, sponsored a unique event focused on shidduchim with Mrs. Joanne Bane, hosted by Rochie and David Porush. Mrs. Bane is a well-known and respected shadchan, whose advice is sought by families throughout North America and beyond. Over 25 mothers participated in a very interactive and informative discussion.

Said Mr. Bane, “Though speaking to the Skokie Yeshiva community at the Melava Malka was both exciting and humbling, the highlight of my weekend was davening with the yeshiva’s students on Friday morning, and having the opportunity to share ideas with them. Quite an impressive group of future community leaders.”

The words of this author reflect his/her own opinions and do not necessarily represent the official position of the Orthodox Union.