08/07/2026
Twenty-Nine Years Later, A Watermelon Champion Finally Claims His Prize
Some prizes are claimed the same day.
Others take a little longer.
In Betzalel Rais' case, it took 29 years.
Back in 1997, The Yeshiva Academy held its annual Lag B'Omer Carnival, bringing together students, families, and community members for a day of games, food, and fun. One of the most anticipated events was the Watermelon Eating Contest.
Among the competitors was a young Yeshiva Academy student named Betzalel Rais.
With determination—and no shortage of watermelon—Betzalel ate his way to victory, earning first place. His prize was to be a brand-new Tanya.
But in the excitement and commotion of the carnival, the prize was never claimed. Somehow, everyone forgot, and the years rolled on.
Fast forward nearly three decades.
Today, Betzalel Rais is known around the Jewish world as "The Herring Man." His celebrated herring, gourmet specialty foods, and remarkable pareve ice cream have made him a familiar name at simchos and events everywhere.
Recently, while passing through Worcester with his beautiful mishpacha, Betzalel stopped in at Chani's Kosher Deli to say hello.
While reminiscing with Rabbi Mendel Fogelman, Betzalel casually mentioned, "You know, I won the watermelon eating contest at The Yeshiva Academy's Lag B'Omer Carnival in 1997... but I never got the Tanya that was promised as the prize."
Without missing a beat, Rabbi Mendel stood up, walked into his office, and returned moments later with a brand-new Tanya.
Not just any Tanya—but one that had been printed right here in Holden, Massachusetts, just a few miles from where that long-forgotten contest had taken place.
Nearly three decades after winning the contest, Betzalel finally received his prize.
It was a lighthearted moment, but also a meaningful one.
Sometimes life gets busy, and little things are forgotten. But Torah is timeless. A promise made to a child still matters, even many years later.
After 29 years, the champion finally got his prize.
Mazal tov, Betzalel!
