Jerusalem, Israel - Oct. 2320, 16 - Amar'e Stoudemire, made a special appearance at the Inbal Hotel in Jerusalem, Hashana Rabba morning. Off the hotel lobby, the former US basketball star met with young and not so young fans, smiling for photos and selfies, and signing autographs.

After being chosen NBA Rookie of the Year in 2003, and having played in six All-Star games, the 6-foot 10-inch former New York Knicks basketball player invested in the Hapoel Jerusalem basketball team and has moved to Israel.

Former Baltimorean, basketball star, Tamir Goodman, who is also involved with Hapoel Jerusalem, told BJL, how impressive it is that "a celebrated athlete like Amar'e of the NBA, comes to play in Israel and embrace Israel and help out with charity causes as well."

The event was co-sponsored by Yashar Lachayal to raise funds for one of Hapoel's community programs. One of Yashar Lachayal's projects is to buy tickets to the basketball games and offer them to Israeli soldiers, so they may attend and enjoy the basketball games when off duty.

Among the families in line to support the good cause were Tamar and Jeremy Lustman and children. A quick stop, for photos and smiles, then all rushed to get ready for yom tov, Shemini Atzeres candle lighting is before 5:30 pm