The Legacy Preston Hollow senior living community celebrated Israel’s 66 years of independence on May 6. The community hosted a special event for residents with Rabbi Howard Wolk to commemorate this significant date in Jewish history. Yom Ha'atzmaut (“Independence Day”) is an important occasion as it centers on the establishment of the State of Israel in 1948. Preceded by Yom Hazikaron (Israel’s Memorial Day to honor fallen soldiers), Yom Ha’atzmaut celebrates the Jewish people’s sense of identity and the fulfillment of their dream to have a home and safe haven for Jews around the world.
The Legacy Preston Hollow hosted this special celebration, which included the singing the traditional hymn Am Israel Chai meaning “The Nation of Israel Lives,” as well as a delicious birthday cake in honor of Israel. In addition, Wolk discussed the significance of this historical date for all Jews. For many, like The Legacy Preston Hollow resident Yael Rappaport, this is an exceptionally meaningful date.
“I was there,” said Rappaport of The Legacy Preston Hollow. “I remember the day Israel declared its independence in 1948 after overcoming so much persecution and war. This is such an important day to remember for our homeland.”
Born in Germany, Rappaport escaped the Holocaust with her parents as they fled to Palestine before 1948. She grew up in Israel and then spent many years raising her own children there before coming to the United States.
“We take time with Yom Hazikaron to honor the soldiers who gave their lives in service and reflect on the individuals who died by acts of terrorism. Then, on Yom Ha’atzmaut, we celebrate the independence our soldiers’ sacrifices brought us and the way they continually make sacrifices to ensure we have a Jewish state,” said Wolk. “This is about giving thanks for the birth of the state of Israel and recognizing how far we have come in our accomplishments in just 66 years.”
In Israel, the holiday involves an elaborate annual ceremony with torch-lighting, a presentation by the President and awards given to Israel Defense Forces soldiers. The blue-and-white flag symbolizing true independence is seen everywhere and the key message to make peace with neighbors is shared.
ABOUT THE LEGACY PRESTON HOLLOW
The Legacy Preston Hollow is a 501(c)3 not-for-profit, faith-based senior living residence that offers a continuum of care allowing residents to stay in place with assisted living, short-term rehabilitation, skilled nursing, and long term care. Built in 2001, the community features 41 assisted living apartments, 113 skilled nursing beds and a state-of-the-art Medicare unit. The Legacy Preston Hollow is the Dallas Home for the Jewish Aged and a partner agency of the Jewish Federation of Greater Dallas. The community is family service-oriented and open to people of all faiths. For questions regarding admissions, please call (214) 363-5100 or go online.