Local

At public spaces worldwide, Chabad shluchim set up straight-arm menorahs that fulfill the mitzvah of publicizing the miracle and informing passersby that there is a Jewish community nearby. In the aftermath of the war in Gaza that inspired anti-Semitic incidents throughout the Jewish diaspora, public displays of Chanukah will be more ambitious, seeking to boost confidence among Jews.

The news of Hamas breaching the Gaza border and pouring into Israel was whispered among the shuls on Sh’mini Atzeres as people heard their voicemails and saw their screens light up with messages from relatives in Israel. Others heard about it from the security guards posted at the entrance.

In contrast to the anti-Israel crowds who have been making daily appearances at some of New York’s most recognizable landmarks, most readers of this publication have jobs and families to support. We have little time available for rallies in the streets, and we know that doing so will not result in as much news coverage or social media attention. When public opinion polls show diminishing support for Israel and growing sympathy for a ceasefire that keeps Hamas in power, the rally in Washington appeared to have another goal in mind.

Jack (Jacob J.) Lew, 68, the Queens-born former Secretary of the Treasury, is making history again, having been picked by President Joe Biden as the next ambassador to Israel. The appointment comes during a critical moment, as the United States negotiates with Saudi Arabia on its much-anticipated recognition of Israel, ongoing protests in Israel against Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, and the Israeli request to allow for visa-free entry to the United States for its citizens.

As the college Jewish scene is concerned, Queens College is unique for having a sizable Jewish student body on a campus located next to a thriving Jewish neighborhood. Since 2004, Rabbi Shaul and Tzipah Wertheimer have been on campus to strengthen Jewish observance among students, splitting their events between on-campus spaces and their attached home on 69^th Avenue.

Residents of West Hempstead have been complaining about speeding traffic on Woodfield Road for many years, and throughout the neighborhood there are lampposts covered with flowers in memory of individuals who were fatally struck by motorists. Alongside calls to reduce speeding, the race for County Legislator for the 14th district is picking up pace.