S. Petersburg Community Honors Jewish Veterans
	S. PETERSBURG, Russia – The Jewish community of S. Petersburg has staged an event to honor its veterans, including both those who served in World War Two and those who served in various capacities on the home front. The event, hosted by the Great Choral Synagogue, took place in the lead-up to the anniversary of the S. Petersburg Blockade. Honored guests then gathered at the 'Lechaim' restaurant, where they enjoyed a delicious kosher feast in good company. Chief Rabbi of S. Petersburg Menachem Mendel Pewzner congratulated these praiseworthy guests and spoke to them on the theme of Jewish survival and longevity. Greetings were also given by Shaul Bruk, who represented the local Jewish community. Students attending the city's 'Yeshiva Ktana' presented
carnations to each of the participants, after which they enthusiastically watched a concert featuring  actor Anatoly Tukish and the theatrical collective 'Born from the Blockade', which is mainly comprised of elderly actors. The latter performance was particularly special for the guests, as the theme they explored was close to their own real-life experience. The event culminated with a lively and touching performance of war songs, with everyone joining in on this memorable occasion. This gathering represents one of many initiatives aimed at serving the needs of elderly Jews in Russia's northern capital. Like many other members of the Federation of Jewish Communities of Russia, the local community strives to accommodate the elderly through numerous social, humanitarian, educational, religious, medical, and other programs