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City launching new Neighborhood Safety Coalitions
based on a successful model used to drive down gun violence

Mayor Bill de Blasio announced Sunday the creation of new multi-ethnic interfaith Neighborhood Safety Coalitions, increased NYPD presence, and new Department of Education lesson plans and curriculum as part of the City’s commitment to the prevention of hate crimes and anti-Semitic attacks. In addition to an immediate increased NYPD presence, the new Neighborhood Safety Coalitions will have physical presence in the community with neighborhood safety walks and corner watches. They will also offer ongoing programming designed to promote tolerance and break down stereotypes.

On Sunday evening, December 8, Rabbi Benzion Klatzko, founder of shabbat.com and well-known speaker, shared a beautiful shiur at Beth Gavriel, hosted by Chazaq. His topic was “Emunah and Shidduchim,” and he included how to have meaningful relationships and success in all areas of life.

On Sunday evening, the eighth night of Chanukah, Chabad On Campus of Queens hosted a public menorah lighting in front of Soy Sauce on Main Street. Despite the chilly rain, there was dancing on Main Street, celebrating the miracles of Chanukah!

On Monday, the Union of Orthodox Jewish Congregations of America – the nation’s largest Orthodox Jewish umbrella organization – applauded Senator Chuck Schumer’s announcement of his proposal to quadruple the funding level for the federal government’s security grants to synagogues and other houses of worship and nonprofit organizations.

(Please recite Psalms 20, 30, 88, 121, and 130.)