In summer 2023, Queens Jewish native and Oscar-nominee Jesse Eisenberg traveled to Poland, but not for a leisure trip. He set out to manifest his dream film project, which he spent steadfastly preparing over the last 15 years. Delving deep into the depths of his proud Jewish-Polish heritage, Eisenberg co-produced, wrote, starred, and directed A Real Pain, a fictional picture set in the modern backdrop of the Central European country that, like its title suggests, elicits “real pain” – both in its historical scope and in confronting human foibles. Eisenberg and co-star Kieran Culkin portray mismatched cousins – David and Benji – who together join a heritage tour throughout Poland after the loss of their grandmother, Dora. As part of her will, Dora implores her grandsons to visit the country’s historical touchstone locales.

NEW YORK NEWS

 Mayor Eric Adams has vetoed a controversial bill known as the “How Many Stops Act,” which would require police officers to record demographic data in all levels of street stops. The bill had overwhelming support in the City Council, and there is a likelihood that the veto will be overridden.

Recap: Hope’s parents write a letter giving Hope permission to attend the Beth Jacob School. She is very excited. She gets extra tutoring. She goes with Rivkah to school and feels uncomfortable if anyone asks her about her family. She finds out that there is going to be a production and they need dancers. She doesn’t want anyone to know about her ballet ability. Rivkah wants her to volunteer to dance in the production.

NEW YORK NEWS

 New York Governor Kathy Hochul has declared a war against shoplifting, addressing the issue in her 2024 State of the State address. The governor’s plan includes several measures to tackle the surge in retail theft, such as increasing penalties for offenders who assault retail workers, creating a new crime category for those selling stolen goods online, and establishing a “smash and grab unit” in the New York State Police Department to prosecute theft rings.

Long-Term Relief for Those Impacted by the Current War

As the aftermath of the October 7 attack has seen a surge of support for the affected families, some have wondered: What is the long-term future of those left shattered by the tragedy?

Who is going to address the long-term needs of the orphans, the families, and the injured soldiers?