Representatives from The Blue Card, an organization supporting Holocaust survivors, recently presented their Hologram Education Program to Councilwoman Inna Vernikov, aiming to expand Holocaust education in New York City public schools.
For decades, Holocaust survivor Sonia Warshawski has shared her experiences in concentration camps and the Międzyrzec ghetto with diverse audiences. Now, her story lives on through an interactive hologram created using Blue Card’s Holobox technology.
The portable hologram allows viewers to engage with “Sonia” in real time. Powered by non-generative AI, it delivers responses based on her recorded experiences, preserving her voice and personality. More than a supplement to traditional lessons, the program offers students – particularly in middle and high school – a meaningful way to connect with history while fostering empathy and understanding.
“I am grateful to the Blue Card for sharing this innovation,” said Councilwoman Vernikov. “I encourage educators and administrators to incorporate the Hologram Education Program into school curricula to teach future generations about the Holocaust.”
Having recently turned 100, Warshawski is among the few remaining Holocaust survivors. The program ensures her story, and others like it, will continue to educate future generations.
For more information, visit: https://bluecardfund.org/hologram/Simcha Felder, Sanchez Bill to Expand Free Bin Program to Three-Family Homes
Councilman Simcha Felder has introduced a bill, Intro 0193, co-sponsored by Councilman Justin Sanchez, Sanitation Committee Chair, to ensure that owner-occupied three-family homes are eligible for the same free official NYC trash bins currently provided to one-and two-family homes.
The legislation would require the City to provide the free bins, or reimburse homeowners who purchase them, closing a gap that currently leaves many small homeowners paying out of pocket.
“Owner occupied three-family homes are just like families in one- or two-family homes. They’re taxed the same, they should be treated the same,” said Councilman Simcha Felder. “These families are already oppressed by rising costs and they deserve the same relief as other small homeowners.”
“City policies should make life easier for people – not more expensive,” Felder added. “If the City mandates new bins, they should provide them. This common-sense bill simply makes the program fair for hardworking homeowners.”Thousands Celebrate at Free Hol Hamoed Family Extravaganzas in Brooklyn
The annual Free Family Fun Extravaganzas, sponsored by Assemblyman Simcha Eichenstein and Councilman Simcha Felder in partnership with COJO of Flatbush and the Boro Park Jewish Community Council, once again drew thousands of families during Hol Hamoed Pesach in Boro Park and Midwood. The beloved tradition continues to attract residents of all ages year after year.
This year’s events saw strong turnout at both locations, offering a wide range of attractions including rides, interactive activities, and live entertainment.
The Midwood Extravaganza, held on Sunday, April 5th, featured performances by R’ Shloime Taussig, Yisroel Werdyger, and Yidi Bialostozky, along with bumper cars, rock climbing, a monkey show, and free balloons and cotton candy.
On Tuesday, April 7th, the Boro Park event delivered another day of excitement with Uncle Moishy, Yiddish Nachas, a ventriloquist, rides, inflatables, and a petting zoo.
Councilman Felder praised the event for bringing joy to thousands, noting that families could relax and enjoy the day knowing everything was free. Assemblyman Eichenstein highlighted the importance of providing meaningful, cost-free opportunities for families to spend time together, calling the experience as rewarding as ever.
Organizers echoed this sentiment. COJO Flatbush CEO Louis Welz described the event as a “country carnival in the big city,” noting that even rainy weather couldn’t dampen spirits. BPJCC CEO Rabbi Avi Greenstein added that seeing families and children enjoying themselves was the greatest reward. Community members expressed gratitude for the uplifting atmosphere and accessible programming, especially during financially challenging times. As Assemblyman Eichenstein noted, these are the moments families remember long after yom tov ends.