From a struggle to learn early in life, this East Hills chaplain found purpose

“Jonah Sanderson likes to tell new participants in his classes at Sid Jacobson JCC that he's going to change their lives.

But the 35-year-old coordinator of Jewish life at the East Hills center said he had to change his life and find his purpose before he could start helping others.

As a child, the Mineola resident and Los Angeles native struggled with an intellectual disability. He said he was misdiagnosed and attended a school for children with autism for nearly 10 years…”

Steve Israel's call from the DNC

Former House member Steve Israel has been selected to serve on the Democratic National Convention’s 25-member platform committee — the only Long Islander picked for the panel, The Point has learned.

Israel, who previously represented the 3rd Congressional District, said he received a call earlier this month from the Democratic National Committee asking him to serve. The platform committee is tasked with drafting the official policy of the national party to be approved at its nominating convention, which is scheduled to take place in August in Chicago. The committee will tackle a host of issues, to “ensure [the platform] reflects the party’s values and priorities,” Israel said in an interview Friday…”

Long Island rallies for release of Israeli hostages six months after attack

“More than 500 Long Islanders marched for a mile and a half Sunday, six months after the Oct. 7 attack on Israel by Hamas, to demand the release of 133 Israeli hostages still being held captive by the terrorist organization.

“On this six-month mark, we must not relent or become complacent in our solidarity with hundreds of families who wait every day for their loved ones to return,” said David Black, executive director of the Sid Jacobson JCC.

The rally, held in Plainview Sunday, was organized by the Long Island Supports Israel Coalition, a conglomerate of 17 Long Island Jewish organizations formed in the wake of the Oct. 7 attack by Hamas upon Israeli citizens…”

New Yorkers gather to rally for hostages in Gaza

“EAST SIDE, Manhattan (WABC) -- On the sixth-month mark of the October 7 attacks in Israel, Long Islanders gathered to rally for the hostages.

Dozens of people walked one and a half miles in Plainview on Sunday to rally for the release of the 134 hostages still held in captivity in Gaza.

On the East Side, across the street from the United Nations, hostage families also demanded the immediate release of their loved ones…”

Bronx Realty Advisory Board agrees not to reopen residential union contracts, avoiding strike

“The Bronx Realty Advisory Board (BRAB) on Tuesday, April 2, announced it will not reopen residential workers’ union contracts — which will avert a strike employees said they were ready for last month.

The latest four-year contract was agreed upon in March 2023 in the final hours right before the 32BJ SEIU union — made up of 1,400 doorpeople, handy-persons, porters and superintendents — was set to go on strike. The Realty Board originally wanted to renegotiate last year’s contract with the union, citing “unfavorable” economic conditions and rising real estate industry costs…”

Roslyn, Jericho High students start HERO Project grief support group for teens

“Last year, Long Island teens Charlie Dubofsky and Sydney Hassenbein bonded over an unimaginable loss: the death of a family member.

In February 2023, Dubofsky’s father, Ned, died in a car crash. Then in May, Hassenbein’s 14-year-old brother, Drew, an elite tennis player, was one of two Roslyn teens killed when an alleged drunken driver crashed his pickup truck into the car they were riding in. Also killed was Ethan Falkowitz, another young tennis player. Their deaths sent shock waves through the Roslyn community and worldwide, with condolences pouring in from competitors as far away as Poland and Ukraine.

After Drew’s death, Dubofsky, 16, who attends Jericho High School, said she reached out to Hassenbein to offer her support. The two connected over their shared grief…”

Bronx residential workers threaten to strike if they can’t get approved contract from BRAB

“…BRAB though, argues that the union vote doesn’t take rising real estate costs into account.

‘Last night’s vote by 32BJ fails to address the fundamental fact that rising expenses in the real estate industry, coupled with the devastating effects of the 2019 Housing Stability Tenant Protection Act have created an unsustainable downward spiral for Bronx property owners,” BRAB President Billy Schur told the Bronx Times in a statement. ‘Building service workers along with residents of the Bronx must join with property owners to call for action and the pursuit of alternatives that will protect housing affordability while allowing for the survival of Bronx buildings.’

‘The combination of draconian regulations, alongside the complete collapse of the Bronx Housing Courts have created an environment where expenses have now surpassed revenue and most Bronx rental properties are headed towards financial collapse if they have not arrived there already,’ Schur continued. ‘We hope the union will work alongside property owners instead of encouraging grandstanding as the Bronx begins to burn…’”

Mourning teens partner to provide grief support group for other teenagers

In times of loss, mourners often hear the same phrase of sentiment shared by those consoling them in their grief:

“I know what you’re going through.”

But for teenagers like Charlie Dubofsky and Sydney Hassenbein, both 16, the grief they experienced in the loss of their family members was something their peers overwhelmingly did not understand.

“They don’t know what it’s like,” Dubofsky said.

Within just three months of each other, the two teenagers experienced sudden and life-changing grief that most people so early in life don’t endure.

Long Island University and Oyster Bay will host Gold Coast Book Fair in June

The first Gold Coast Book Fair is coming to Long Island in June at Long Island University in Brookville and downtown Oyster Bay.

Programming is geared toward both children and adults, including panel discussions, keynote speeches and workshops.

The fair is free to attend except for select ticketed events.

Men need support facing cancer on World Cancer Day and every day

“For many — especially men — talking about cancer, and the fears that surround it is a non-starter. This is why I was proud to start and lead a men’s cancer group.

Doing cancer alone is tough. Today — World Cancer Day — we must remember the drive to share meaning with someone can be as profound as searching for a cure….”

United in grief, Long Island teens start bereavement group by, and for, their peers

They are wise beyond their years.

Two Long Island teens have started a unique bereavement support group, by and for teenagers.

First, they were helping one another. Now they are helping other young people cope with painful loss.

"Drew was such a happy, energetic, motivated kid," Sydney Hassenbein said. "His passion was tennis, but he really had a passion for anything he did."

"[My father] had a larger than life personality. He was somebody who lived his life to the fullest," Charlie Dubofski said.

Sister of NY teen killed by alleged drunk driver forms grief support group for other teens

“Sydney Hassenbein and Charlie Dubofsky were never friends until unthinkable tragedy brought them together.

In Feb. 2023, Charlie’s father died in a car crash. The then-freshman at Roslyn High School said she was devastated and felt alone, not being able to talk to others she felt understood her.

"I felt very bad, and just very unclear about the future,” said Charlie. “And how would I move on?"

A few months later, Sydney’s brother Drew was killed in a horrific wrong way crash. Also killed was his friend and teammate Ethan Falkowitz; two other friends were injured but survived…”

"I texted her said I know what you’re going through,” said Charlie. “And I know how hard it is.”

Sydney says the message was appreciated because it was from someone who knew first-hand how she was feeling. The two found comfort in their shared grief and realized they wanted to help other teens. They founded the H.E.R.O. Project. “

#60 — Wall to Wall Communications

Ross Wallenstein, Founder and CEO

Bipartisanship in Washington, D.C., may be increasingly rare, but Ross Wallenstein is demonstrating that former members of Congress can work in a bipartisan fashion. Wallenstein teamed up with former Reps. Steve Israel (a Democrat) and Lee Zeldin (a Republican) to promote the launch of Former Members of Congress for Israel in the wake of Hamas’ Oct. 7 attacks. Wall to Wall Communications also assists Operation Benjamin, a nonprofit that aims to ensure American soldiers mistakenly buried under the wrong religious symbols overseas are given the proper religious markings.

Ross Wallenstein featured in PoliticsNY & amNY Metro’s “Power Players in Public Relations & Lobbying list”

'Heartbroken' Long Islanders rally in support of Israel, shaken over death toll

“… Earlier, at the Sid Jacobson Jewish Community Center in Greenvale, Dagen Cohen, director of the JCC’s Center for Israel, told the crowd his cousin — a father of two serving in the Israeli Defense Forces — had been killed Saturday.

“It feels like a never-ending horror movie,” he said. “We start every day with crying.”

Long Islanders flock to Sid Jacobson Jewish Community Center to show unwavering support for Israel

“EAST HILLS, N.Y. -- Hundreds of Long Islanders gathered Monday to share their grief and show their unified support for Israel.

With prayers for the dead, followed by the Israeli national anthem, Jews joined other faith leaders at the Sid Jacobson Jewish Community Center in East Hills.

"We stand together with the Jewish community," said Bishop Dr. Danilo Archibald of the New Jerusalem Cathedral in Elmont…”

New Yorkers watching Israel-Hamas war closely

We are hearing from New Yorkers who are in Israel as the attacks continue. Greg Cergol reports.

Sid Jacobson JCC to offer paid jobs for adults with disabilities

The Sid Jacobson Jewish Community Center will soon be employing adults with disabilities with the help of a $35K grant to continue its mission of supporting individuals with special needs and bridging their unemployment gap.

The JCC’s Vocational Life Skills Training Center is a year-round, day habilitation program that provides adults 21 and older with special needs vocational training, educational workshops, life skills training and socialization opportunities.

The center’s day habilitation program caters to about 35 participants and the whole center provides for about 50 individuals…

Sid Jacobson JCC in East Hills plans to use $35,000 grant to pay adults with special needs as they learn workforce skills

“Drew Danter enjoys working the cash register at Sid Jacobson JCC cafe, where he says he's learning skills to prepare him for the future.

An intern, Danter, 24, has worked at the East Hills community center for nearly five years, stocking shelves and taking inventory four days a week for about two hours each day.

Danter, of Melville, said he aspires to one day get a full-time job and "live independently."

“My big dream is that I want to travel around the world,” Danter, said.

Danter, who has autism, is one of 57 interns in the community center's "Program without Walls" training, where adults with disabilities are given opportunities to build skills needed to enter the workforce. They work at the cafe, the center’s food bank or perform maintenance work around the facility. Recently, the center was awarded a $35,000 grant from the nonprofit UJA-Federation of New York that will go toward hiring people with disabilities when the center expands its cafe hours, said Heather Schulz, director of vocational life skills training center.

New hires will be paid $16 an hour, said Ross M. Wallenstein, a spokesman for JCC…”

Nancy Waldbaum named Sid Jacobson JCC’s newest board president

“Nancy Waldbaum, community leader and the granddaughter of the Waldbaum supermarket founder, is the newest board president at the Sid Jacobsen Jewish Community Center and said she is looking forward to continuing the center’s work to bounce back from the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Waldbaum said she comes from a family dedicated to philanthropy, a pursuit and passion instilled in her and applied to the work she implements in her life and at the Sid Jacobson JCC…”

Waldbaum JCC Board President

“Nancy Waldbaum, whose family ran the supermarket chain bearing her last name, is the new president of the board at the Sid Jacobson JCC in East Hills…”

A last goodbye to my uncle, a WWII veteran

By Gail Findley

“Eighty years ago, when I was barely old enough to remember, my sister and I watched as our uncle, Simon Goodman, shipped off to go fight Hitler’s army. He never returned.

This year, on a fateful trip to Normandy over Memorial Day weekend, my sister, my son and I were finally able to say goodbye to him on behalf of our family and the grateful nation for which he gave his life in defense of freedom…”

Efforts to change crosses on graves of Jewish American soldiers

By Chris Conte

“… For 79 years, his memorial was marked by a Latin cross. That changed on Memorial Day last week, when years of heavy bureaucratic lifting with U.S. officials finally got it changed to a Jewish Star of David.

In the crowd was Bill Loventhal, who made the trip across the Atlantic Ocean from his home in Atlanta, Georgia, to watch this historic wrong made right."Very, very meaningful, yeah," Loventhal said after the ceremony had ended.

The change was made possible as part of Operation Benjamin. So far, the non-profit has secured approval from the American Battle Monuments Commission to replace 23 grave markers of Jewish-American service members. The organization says they have 30 more in the works…”

Faith, patriotism send metro Atlantans to Normandy this Memorial Day

By Bo Emerson

“Dunwoody resident Bill Loventhal and his wife, Rita, were getting ready to take a cruise on the Seine in France last summer when they had the opportunity to visit the military cemetery in Normandy, on the cliffs above Omaha Beach.

To Loventhal’s surprise, it was the most emotionally moving part of the trip.

He discovered, only on that visit, that a cousin, once removed, who died on the battlefields in France, was among the 9,387 Americans buried in the Normandy American Cemetery. When he arrived at the cemetery he found that the staff had prepared a folder full of information about 1st Lt. Lawrence Samuel Craig, an Infantry officer…”

Jewish-American WWII soldiers buried under crosses receive new headstones

By Karli Barnett

“ATLANTA, Ga. (Atlanta News First) - This Memorial Day weekend, some fallen Jewish-American WWII soldiers will be getting headstones that are a more accurate depiction of their faith and family legacy.

Those buried in Normandy under Christian cross headstones will have them replaced, with the family’s permission, with a Star of David headstone.

One Atlanta man is making the trip to France this weekend to see the ceremony take place.

He went on a journey to do just that. While he and his wife were visiting France last year, Loventhal learned his father’s cousin, or first cousin once removed, was buried in the Normandy American Cemetery.

Lt. Lawrence Craig was in the U.S. Army and killed in action shortly after D-Day at age 28.

“There was a cross on the grave, and we’re Jewish,” says Loventhal. “I said, ‘Can we get that fixed?’”

It turns out the organization Operation Benjamin was already working on it…”

A North Shore exhibit whose 'images stand as proof' of locals surviving Holocaust

“… Nearly 80 years later, a 30-by-40-inch portrait of [Holocaust survivor Ronnie] Beecher is among 18 photos of Holocaust survivors that now decorate the walls of the Sid Jacobson JCC in East Hills. The images are a way to preserve history and keep the stories of survival and triumph alive, according to photographer Daniel Weiss, the exhibit’s creator.

“In an era when survivors are dying and there are too many people denying that there ever was a Holocaust, I feel so strongly that the images stand as proof,” said Weiss, 50, of Port Washington…

Photography exhibit of Holocaust survivors to memorialize stories

“The Sid Jacobson Jewish Community Center unveiled a new photography exhibit by Daniel Weiss that includes portraits of 18 local Holocaust survivors, to memorialize their stories and educate the community.

The gallery, which was produced by Dinah Kramer, will be on display at the center through June. The project began in 2017 and was completed in 2020. It was first displayed in January 2020.

Weiss said the progression of developing the exhibit was evolutionary, meaning it changed throughout the process of its creation…”

DNA testing is reuniting Holocaust survivors, families

About 900 people have participated since the DNA Reunion Project partnered with Ancestry DNA to connect Holocaust survivors to their families.

By Chris Conte

Standing in the living room of her Baltimore home, Jennifer Mendelsohn pulls out old family photos, slowly unraveling pieces of her family's history. A few years ago, Mendelsohn discovered her husband's 95-year-old grandmother, who survived the Holocaust, had family living in the U.S.

That launched Mendelson on a mission: To help connect victims of the Holocaust and their families, by using modern DNA technology.

"We had this idea that we would give free testing to Holocaust survivors," Mendelsohn said.

Launched in late 2022, the DNA Reunion Project at the Center for Jewish History is working in coordination with Ancestry DNA. They've received a donation of 2,500 DNA test kits. The goal is to send them out to Holocaust survivors or their direct descendants all over the world, and then put that DNA information into Ancestry's database. About 900 people have participated since the project launched…”

Senior Passport Programs See Success at Sid Jacobson JCC

“To further engage with the senior community, the Sid Jacobson JCC’s Linda & Gerald Marsden Senior Passport Programs offers a wide array of weekly in-person and virtual offerings.

However, these opportunities seek to enhance more than the physical health of seniors. The focus of the initiative is to enhance all aspects of health for participants. Julie Assael, the senior program coordinator, said the different Senior Passport Programs help build bonds across the aging community…”

5,000 Years of the World’s Largest Jewish Comprehensive Archives with Professor Gavriel Rosenfeld

Dr. Gavriel Rosenfeld, President of The Center for Jewish History in New York City, goes one-on-one with Schneps Media CEO Josh Schneps about the Center, the rise of recent antisemitic attacks at home and abroad and what role history plays in Jewish life and culture.

From the Desk of David Black: Remembering the Holocaust takes all of us

“This week, Jews here on Long Island and around the world observe one of our most solemn days – Yom Hashoah – the day we remember the six million men, women, and children who were brutally slaughtered by the Nazis during the Holocaust.

Almost 80 years later, with the number of survivors not only in New York but around the world dwindling with every day’s passing, it is becoming more and more incumbent upon all of us who are still here to “Never Forget.”

At East Hill’s Sid Jacobson JCC, where I am fortunate to be the executive director, we interact quite a bit with just a few of the more than 30,000 Holocaust survivors still living in the New York area through UJA-Federation’s “Witness Project,” a remarkable program that connects high school students with survivors of the Shoah…”

'Art With Heart.' 8-year-old Sea Cliff artist uses his creations to help children in need

An 8-year-old Sea Cliff boy is using his art to help children in need.

Cal Krinsky is raising money to buy art supplies for children so they can experience the joy of creativity.

"It's a good idea because it makes the people who need the art supplies happy, and it makes me happy for making art supplies for people who need it," Krinsky says.

The young artist's inspiration came when he attended a "Shine a Light on Hunger" ceremony at the Sid Jacobson JCC…”

Bronx landlords, building workers agree on contract

Agreement reached just before midnight deadline

“… Things did get a bit dicey this time, as Bronx landlords were negotiating their first deal since the state put a tourniquet around rent-stabilized buildings’ revenue in June 2019, the worst pandemic since 1918 hit, inflation sprung to life after a 40-year slumber and interest rates soared.

Some tenants haven’t paid rent for 30 months, protected by eviction moratoriums and a backlogged court system.

The union had demanded a 4.11 percent compensation increase and claimed owners sought to carve out superintendents and reduce health benefits. The owners, represented by Billy Schur, said they could not afford that. Three-quarters of them own rent-stabilized properties.

They ultimately settled on 3.18 percent annual increases, on average, including 3 percent wage bumps, a spokesperson for the owners said…”

Building Workers Union, Bronx Building Owners Agree to Small Wage Hike

“… ‘Thank you to all involved – especially to building staff members who have worked so hard over the last four years in the most difficult of circumstances,’ BRAB president Billy Schur said in a statement Tuesday night. ‘We thank SEIU Local 32BJ leadership for working with us to come to an agreement that will help us to continue serving the Bronx community.’

Schur had noted earlier Tuesday morning that ‘several prominent city and state elected officials, including Assembly Speaker Carl Heastie, Public Advocate Jumaane Williams, State Senator Gustavo Rivera, and City Councilmember Rafael Salamanca called me personally to urge us to come to an immediate agreement with SEIU 32BJ.’”

BREAKING: Bronx building workers, realty advisory board avert strike, reach tentative 4-year deal

“Negotiations between building service workers and the Bronx Realty Advisory Board (BRAB) went down to the eleventh hour on Tuesday and just before midnight struck, both sides were able to avert a strike that would have included 2,712 workers across 894 co-ops, condos and apartment buildings in the Bronx…”

“… BRAB officials expressed relief at an end to terse contract negotiations, which, they say, were complicated due to the COVID-19 pandemic’s effect on the Bronx housing market.

“We’re thrilled that we reached an agreement with SEIU Local 32BJ in contract negotiations. We are proud to offer its members in the Bronx a fair compensation and benefits package while recognizing the fiscal realities of the industry,” said Billy Schur, BRAB president.”

Bronx building workers reach agreement with BRAB promising pay raises

“… Billy Schur, the president of the Bronx Realty Advisory Board, responded with a statement that reads in part, "We’re thrilled that we reached an agreement with SEIU Local 32BJ in contract negotiations. We are proud to offer its members in the Bronx a fair compensation and benefits package. Thank you to all involved, especially to building staff members who have worked so hard over the last four years in the most difficult of circumstances.”

Bronx building workers, landlords reach deal to avert strike

“… Added Billy Schur, president of the Bronx Realty Advisory Board, “We’re thrilled that we reached an agreement with SEIU Local 32BJ in contract negotiations. We are proud to offer its members in the Bronx a fair compensation and benefits package while recognizing the fiscal realities of the industry.”

The tentative deal averts a strike that would have impacted more than 800 buildings across the borough.”

Strike looms for thousands of co-op, condo workers

“… The president of the Bronx Realty Advisory Board responded with a statement that reads in part:

“We want to work with the union in securing decent wages and benefits for their members. Bronx property owners have faced unprecedented economic issues following three years of COVID restrictions and skyrocketing costs from insurance to utilities, not to mention the financial disaster created by Albany legislators, who will need to fix it swiftly before it becomes worse for any other parts of our already fragile economy."

Efforts continue to avert Bronx building workers strike

“… While the workers talked about their hardships, so too did the building owners. The president of the Bronx Realty Advisory Board explained to PIX11 News that the landlords are out tens of millions of dollars of back rent because of legislative actions that excused some rent payments during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Bronx Realty Advisory Board President Billy Schur said efforts are in progress to resolve this issue over the next six months, hence the call for an extension of the current contract. The workers, however, said their patience is wearing thin.”

Workers at nearly 3,000 buildings in the Bronx may go on strike

“Hundreds of workers at nearly 3,000 buildings in the Bronx may go on strike at midnight tonight after negotiations for a new contract broke down. A strike would mean the buildings have no superintendents, no porters and no handymen until a deal is reached. FOX 5 NY's Richard Giacovas takes a look at the biggest sticking points.”

Rent law drives wedge between Bronx landlords, workers

“If Bronx building workers make good on their threat to strike in the event contract negotiations fail, landlords say the 2019 rent law is to blame.

This month, 32BJ SEIU, the union representing Bronx superintendents, porters, handypersons and doorpersons, clashed with the Bronx Realty Advisory Board over proposed changes to a 2019 contract set to expire Tuesday at midnight.

The union demanded fair wage increases and claimed BRAB at multiple bargaining sessions had sought to cut workers, such as superintendents, from the contract, and reduce healthcare benefits, while offering no reduction in labor hours.

Last week, the group authorized a strike, if necessary, to add leverage to negotiations.

But BRAB President Billy Schur said owners, squeezed by rising inflation, mounting arrears and the revenue constraints of the rent law, can’t afford the pay bump 32BJ floated…”

Update: Monday ends with no agreement between Bronx building workers, realty advisory board as Wednesday’s midnight deadline looms

“Update: BRAB officials told the Bronx Times that both sides left the bargaining table Monday — the fifth such session during ongoing contract negotiations — without an agreement. Officials from 32BJ SEIU union told the Times that workers are preparing for a strike, if a negotiation is not reached before Wednesday’s deadline…”

Sid Jacobson JCC unveils ‘In the Deep’ photography exhibit

“The Sid Jacobson JCC unveiled its new photography exhibit “In the Deep” Sunday, displaying Daniel Weiss’s photos capturing the feelings of the waves on the South Shore of Long Island.

Weiss’ photos in the exhibit were created during the early moments of the COVID-19 pandemic when being outside was really his only option to escape…”

In East Hills, unique therapy aims to add spark to lives of those with special needs

“Derrick Parson Jr. uses song, touch and art in a unique therapy program in East Hills that aims to bring color to the lives of clients who suffer from cognitive disorders and children with special needs.

He is the only person on Long Island certified in MnemeTherapy and coordinates a program at the Sid Jacobsen Jewish Community Center.

The therapy, whose trademarked name is pronounced nemma, uses everyday activities such as singing, movement, painting and storytelling in combination to stimulate the brain…”

George Santos' other challenge: His constituents' problems

“... Given all of Santos' troubles, Ross Wallenstein, who worked for now-former Rep. Gary L. Ackerman, a Democrat, from 2003 to 2007, wonders how effective Santos can be.

“Congressional staffs work with offices from around the country in order to help district residents across a variety of topics,” Wallenstein told Newsday…

… Many of these offices may think twice about engaging with someone like Mr. Santos, whose national reputation clearly precedes him — much to the detriment of his 700,000 constituents in Nassau and Queens,” Wallenstein said...

... It’s the only real interaction that most constituents will have with their congressman, other than seeing them on TV or in the newspaper, is reaching out to their office and saying, ‘Can you help me with this thing that my family’s going through or that we need in our community?’” Wallenstein said.

In certain cases, he said, a congressman himself will get on the phone with a government agency to advocate for a constituent, adding extra weight to the request..."

King's dream remembered on Long Island through service and celebration

- Celebrating King through service

“… Further north at the Sid Jacobson Jewish Community Center in East Hills, more than 300 people registered for a day of service.

The volunteers, who donned blue and white shirts with the words “Official Mensch” printed on the front, packaged food and household items to be donated to local pantries and shelters.

Danny Capps, the center's program coordinator for community engagement, said food insecurity is prevalent in the North Shore.

“MLK is a day on and not a day off,” said Capps, 23, of Port Washington, who estimated that between 1,000 and 1,500 bags were packed Monday by volunteers. “It’s important for us on this day, to not just honor his legacy through our thoughts, but really through our actions.”

Maddy Purcell, 39, of Syosset, helped package laundry and art supplies with her three children, all under the age of 10.

“It’s fun to be all together showing them how important it is to serve the community,” Purcell said.

The center also hosted a blood drive and showed Martin Luther King Jr. films.

JCC Executive Director David Black said the organization is always seeking to create events that are meaningful to the community and where all cultures can come together.

“In an age where it’s easy to lie, we want to show a reverence to an individual who spoke and believed in the truth,” Black said. “In an age of division, we wanted to bring cultures together in a way that is cohesive and connective."

Josephine Ciro, 51, of Huntington, attended the event with her stepdaughter Kendall, and her friend, Skylar, both 13, who helped collect clothing, linen, and other small household items for the nonprofit Big Brothers Big Sisters of Long Island.

“It’s very rewarding to give back to the community,” Ciro said. “It’s not just to check off the box. It’s a way of life.”

The 2023 Political PR Power 50

Ross Wallenstein’s one-man operation has only been in business since the middle of 2021, but the PR veteran has retained some notable clients. Among them are Operation Benjamin, a nonprofit that replaces headstones of Jewish American service members mistakenly buried under Latin crosses, which was featured this year in The New York Times and other outlets. Wallenstein got his start in several governmental and campaign roles, then worked at firms including Marino, Marathon and J Strategies before launching his own shop.

‘Life Living Life’ looks to showcase humanity, culture

“Traveling and photography have always gone hand in hand for Dr. Alan Sloyer and his son, Michael.

“One of the most fun, inspiring, meaningful and purposeful ways to travel is by having a camera and being attuned to what’s going on around us,” said Michael. “Especially the life that’s going on around us.”

It was never their intention to make a show out of their photographs. Yet, seven years ago, the two noticed a recurring theme throughout 15 years of their trip documentation. It was this realization that gave rise to “Life Giving Life”.

The Sid Jacobson JCC will be the exhibition’s home until the end of the year. The display aims to inspire people to consider why human connection is so important and depicts the diversity of culture and natural environments in Africa, Asia, the Americas and more…”

Injustice for a Jewish day camp on LI

by David Black, Executive Director, Sid Jacobson JCC

In his famous “Letter from Birmingham Jail,” the Rev. Martin Luther King, Jr. wrote:

"Injustice anywhere is a threat to justice everywhere. We are caught in an inescapable network of mutuality, tied in a single garment of destiny. Whatever affects one directly, affects all indirectly."

King had many Jewish friends and supporters during his fight for racial justice in the 1960s. He reciprocated that friendship in full, most famously with Rabbi Abraham Joshua Heschel who became a fellow “drum major for justice” along with King, John Lewis, and many others. Now almost 60 years later, the Jewish community on Long Island is threatened by injustice.

The 2022 Long Island Power 100

Ross Wallenstein has worked behind the scenes crafting communications at all levels of government and in the private sector. Last year, Wallenstein leveraged all of that experience to open his own agency, Wall to Wall Communications. Recently, Wallenstein has been in the news as the spokesperson for the Sid Jacobson Jewish Community Center after the village of Brookville had the organization’s summer camp shut down due to a zoning dispute.

The Village of Brookville has ordered the Sid Jacobson Jewish Community Center (JCC) to shut down Camp Jacobson, Ross M. Wallenstein, a spokesperson for the center, has confirmed.

Village officials informed the JCC that the summer camp must close because it does not meet the requirements of certain zoning laws. Hundreds of children attend the camp per year.

A beloved summer camp on Long Island has been ordered to close its doors.

Courts have sided with the village of Brookville in finding Camp Jacobson is not a religious institution, and therefore is not entitled to special zoning treatment.

On Thursday, CBS2's Carolyn Gusoff spoke with parents grappling with the news.

Long Island Summer Camp Forced to Shut Down

Hundreds of Long Island families are heartbroken that their favorite camp won’t be around next summer, due to a legal tug of war pitting a village against a Jewish community center. NBC New York’s Pei-Sze Cheng reports.

After 14 years, Camp Jacobson told to cease operations

“After 14 years of operation, Brookville has ordered the Sid Jacobson JCC to stop all operations on its village property because of zoning law violations, including Camp Jacobson, which hosted 440 campers this summer.

The East Hills-based Jewish community center purchased the 15-acre property in Brookville in 2008. Since then, thousands of kids have attended their programs…

Ross M. Wallenstein, a spokesperson for the Sid Jacobson JCC, said in a statement to Blank Slate Media that the center will explore its options.

“It is unfortunate that, due to circumstances beyond our control, we will not be able to operate Camp Jacobson in 2023 after 14 wonderful years on the property. We maintain our assertion that the camp should be allowed to continue, but must follow the dictates of the courts,” he said. “Between now and the summer, we will explore our options on behalf of thousands of children and area families who experienced the wonderment of Bernice Jacobson Day School and Camp and the hundreds of young adults, teachers, area parents and camp professionals who made our staff so very special.”

Ross Wallenstein, Founder of Wall to Wall Communications, on networks and relationships

What is it about relationships? And why are they so important in PR? Ross Wallenstein is a 20 year veteran of New York politics and public relations agencies. He founded Wall to Wall Communications to create and execute specifically tailored plans designed to work across industries, regions, and market sectors and focuses on earned media, thought leadership, crisis communications, public affairs and more. Ross has been recognized by City & State newspaper as one of the “Long Island Power 100,” and a “Rising Star” in NYC politics.

The PR Podcast is your view inside the public relations business. We talk with great PR people, reporters and communicators on how they weave narratives that are informative and fun. Host Jody Fisher has worked in New York City PR for more than 20 years, representing clients across the healthcare, higher education, financial services, real estate, entertainment and non-profit verticals.

Three Jewish Democrats battle for Suozzi’s seat in competitive Long Island House race

“… While his campaign no doubt gained some institutional credibility from Suozzi’s imprimatur, Ross Wallenstein, a Democratic strategist who worked briefly for Lafazan’s campaign and is friendly with Zimmerman and Kaiman, questioned whether the retiring incumbent continues to hold meaningful sway in the district he recently lost during the gubernatorial primary. The high-profile supporters who are backing Zimmerman, on other hand, may represent a stronger show of force, according to Wallenstein.

With turnout expected to be abysmal in the late-summer race, however, Wallenstein speculated that low voter enthusiasm could result in a “jump ball” between Zimmerman and Lafazan that will ultimately be decided by who is more capable of motivating base support….”

Honoring fallen Jewish soldiers, one headstone at a time

Operation Benjamin CEO Shalom Lamm joins JI’s ‘Limited Liability Podcast’

“In 2014, when Rabbi Jacob J. Schacter visited the American cemetery in Normandy, France, the Jewish historian saw firsthand the thousands of white stone grave markings aligned in neat rows, marking the final resting place for the American soldiers who had lost their lives during the invasion of Normandy on June 6, 1944. Among the sea of crosses, a few Star of David tombstones stood out. But Schacter, whose father, Herschel, served as a Jewish chaplain in the U.S. Army and was among the liberators of the Buchenwald concentration camp, noticed the number of Star of David markings did not match the number of Jewish soldiers he knew had died on the beaches below…”

Tenants’ hopes dashed as ‘good cause’ eviction bill meets Albany chopping block

“… Ross M. Wallenstein, a spokesperson for Homeowners for An Affordable New York, told Gothamist that the proposal would be "bad policy for every region" of the state, and that "professional activists and tenant lobbyists" were unable to make their case because "there was no good case" for them to make.

"Their bill would have forced property tax hikes on single-family homes everywhere, devalued rental properties throughout New York, and done nothing to increase the availability of affordable housing," Wallenstein said. "This was another example of socialist legislators - mostly from New York City - trying to impose their agenda on the rest of the state, which ultimately would have hurt tenants as well. Despite blatant and heavy-handed intimidation tactics, their transparent power grab thankfully did not work."

My dad never came back to Kansas City from war. He finally has the marker he deserves

By Barbara Belmont

“… When he was killed, my father was buried under a Christian cross at France’s Lorraine American Cemetery. Despite our regret, we never did anything about it, even after I visited his grave in 1992.

A while back, I was contacted by a wonderful nonprofit called Operation Benjamin, which works to replace grave markers of soldiers like my father’s with Stars of David…”

Many Jewish World War II Soldiers Had Christian Burials. That’s Changing.

“… Jewish soldiers like Mr. Seixas were given Christian burials after the war for a variety of reasons, including bureaucratic confusion and their own decision to conceal their faith on the front lines. But for decades, this was not well known. Some family members had no idea their loved ones, buried in distant cemeteries in foreign countries, had been laid to rest beneath crosses.

But in recent years, descendants of Jewish soldiers have begun to lobby for new religious ceremonies at American military cemeteries, reciting Jewish prayers and replacing Latin crosses with Stars of David. They have been aided by Operation Benjamin, a group that identifies American-Jewish soldiers from World War II, tracks down their relatives, and helps plan ceremonies…”

N.Y. tenant-friendly ‘good cause’ eviction legislation has strong support as advocates push Albany for passage

“This poll reflects what the tenant lobbyists and socialists in the state legislature want New Yorkers to believe,” said Ross Wallenstein, a spokesman for the pro-landlord group Homeowners for an Affordable New York. “In reality, there is very, very little support for this bill among legislators - and with good reason.”

Wallenstein added that the bill as is “would destroy the rights of property owners and it would not do anything to help anyone currently facing eviction.”

“Will Max Rose mount a comeback? In the original map, New York Democrats had drawn the 11th District to give former Rep. Max Rose (D-NY) a stronger chance of regaining his Staten Island seat, which has been largely wiped out in the newly drawn map. The new Staten Island district leans slightly toward Republicans and favors Rep. Nicole Malliotakis (R-NY). “It can swing the other way, but it’s a tough climb,” New York Democratic strategist Ross Wallenstein told JI…”

Nassau Republicans are all in on Anthony D’Esposito

“… When Rice announced her retirement from Congress in February, Democratic strategist Jake Dilemani told JI that the district was “by no means a lock” for Democrats. Veteran New York Democratic strategist Hank Sheinkopf likewise speculated at the time that Rice may have retired because she was concerned about her electoral prospects in a year in which Republicans are expected to pick up seats.

Democrats also fell short in a recent local special election in a usually reliable part of the district. “If I were a Democrat running for Congress in the 4th Congressional [District], I would be very worried,” Democratic strategist Ross Wallenstein told JI at the time…”

Keith Corbett leverages local experience, party ties in race to succeed Kathleen Rice

New York Democratic Party Chair Jay Jacobs said last month that he sees Corbett, who is an ally of Jacobs, as one of two strongest candidates in the race. Rice has endorsed former Hempstead Supervisor Laura Gillen.

Ross Wallenstein, a New York political consultant, described Corbett as “very much an institutional player” who is “very close to Jacobs,” but noted that Corbett’s party experience and ties to Jacobs would not necessarily “translate to votes.”

Corbett trailed Gillen in first-quarter fundraising among Democrats, raising $159,000 to her $256,000. Corbett entered the second quarter with $156,000, compared to Gillen’s $217,000.

Jewish troops who died in World War II finally receive Star of David headstones

“Visitors to American World War II cemeteries in Europe often find themselves awestruck at the seemingly endless rows of crosses, each marking the final resting place of a U.S. service member who died while trying to liberate the western part of the continent from Nazi German occupation.

But those crosses inspired a question for a friend of Shalom Lamm, a retired entrepreneur who leads Operation Benjamin — a non-profit dedicated to ensuring that Jewish soldiers who are buried overseas have grave markers that reflect their faith….”

After more than 75 years, Jewish World War II service members killed in action and buried under crosses are getting proper headstones

“Everett Moses Seixas, Jr. was an only child from New York City who went on to earn two Ivy League degrees before enlisting in WWII in 1943 at age 21. He was killed in action during the Battle of the Bulge in 1944 and later buried in the Luxembourg American Cemetery under a Latin cross.

But Seixas was actually Jewish. Now, the nonprofit group Operation Benjamin is fighting to ensure a proper headstone for those Jewish servicemen like Seixas who died during the war and were buried beneath the wrong religious iconography.

This week, the group is traveling with a handful of Gold Star families to four cemeteries in France and Belgium to honor seven WWII servicemen with corrected Star of David grave markers. For Peter Seixas, who was born three years after his cousin's death, he and his family are grateful to right this decades-old wrong…”

Communicators react to Elon Musk buying Twitter

On Monday, Elon Musk closed a deal to buy Twitter for $44 billion in cash, a transaction that could have far reaching consequences for one of the largest social media platforms in the world.

While the notoriously thin-skinned Musk is touting the move as a step toward protecting free speech, many in the Twittersphere are hesitant about what the move could mean for the future of the platform and freedom of speech in general.

Within a few hours, "Goodbye" began trending as users tweeted their discontent and vowed to leave the site, while "Discord" began trending as a social media alternative.

Here communicators weigh in on the buyout and the future of Twitter…

… Other communicators took a light-hearted approach to the matter, with Ross Wallenstein, founder and CEO of Wall to Wall Communications, inquiring whether loyal Twitter users get to go to space and posting a poll of his followers to see who is staying…”

Big spenders: Real estate lobbying spiked for rent law

“… REBNY, CHIP, RSA and other groups have launched a campaign, “Homeowners for an Affordable New York,” against good cause eviction, which would give tenants a defense against eviction in housing court if their rent went up by more than 3 percent or 1.5 times the regional inflation rate, whichever is higher. The campaign has a $1.4 million lobbying contract with Fontas Advisors.

A spokesperson for the campaign was dismissive of the tenant advocates’ findings.

“We don’t put much faith into a report hastily pieced together by a lobbying organization whose leadership doesn’t see that, if pushed through the legislature, good cause eviction will do real damage to New York’s already teetering economy,” the homeowners’ spokesperson, Ross Wallenstein, said in a statement.

He argued that the measure would discourage investment in rental housing statewide, hurting both owners and tenants…”

Longtime Nassau legislator Carrié Solages aims for the House

“… Rice endorsed one of Solages’ challengers in the race, former Hempstead Town Supervisor Laura Gillen. With Rice’s endorsement, as well as those of former Reps. Steve Israel (D-NY) and Carolyn McCarthy (D-NY), Gillen has been running the “traditional… establishment” campaign according to Ross Wallenstein, a New York political strategist.

“If you base it off of endorsements, then Laura Gillen is clearly a frontrunner. But endorsements, as we all know, don’t always translate to votes,” Wallenstein said. “It doesn’t seem like there’s necessarily a consensus candidate yet… I think that the race is still pretty fluid. It’s still kind of a jumble.”

Solages came in fourth among Democrats in fundraising in the first quarter, trailing Gillen and the two other prominent Democratic competitors, Malverne Mayor Keith Corbett and County Legislator Siela Bynoe.

Gillen raised $256,000 followed by Corbett at $159,000 and Bynoe at $105,450. Solages was the only one of the four to not break $100,000, coming in with a haul of $95,000. Gillen has $217,000 on hand, trailed by Corbett with $156,000, Bynoe with $102,000 and Solages with $82,000.

A recent state Assembly special election in the district, which a Republican candidate won, indicates Democrats could be in for a tough fight in November.

”It seems like Democrats lost parts of that district like Long Beach and Oceanside where they should not have lost,” Wallenstein said. “If I were a Democrat running for Congress in the 4th Congressional, I would be very worried.”

Past accusations of domestic violence accusations could be an “an albatross around [Solages] neck,” Wallenstein added. Solages admitted to disorderly conduct in 2018 after being arrested for allegedly assaulting his son’s mother and endangering her teenage daughter. The woman also accused Solages of other incidents of domestic abuse. He was ordered to complete a domestic violence intervention program and undergo drug testing…”

NY may seal crime records, curb evictions, ban gas hook-ups

GOOD CAUSE EVICTION

New York would make it much harder to evict residential tenants or refuse to renew their leases under a bill backed by influential unions and tenant advocacy groups, and lambasted by the powerful real estate lobby.

New York would prohibit landlords from evicting tenants for failure to pay rent following “unreasonable” rent hikes. The bill defines such hikes as either over 3% of the previous rent or 1.5% of the Consumer Price Index, whichever is higher.

Landlords could still evict tenants in certain cases, including being a nuisance or violating tenant obligations.

Many New Yorkers are at risk of eviction due to unemployment and laxed eviction protections amid the COVID-19 pandemic, according to the bill sponsored by Brooklyn state Sen. Julia Salazar, a Democrat.

“Tenants can do everything right, live somewhere for one year or twenty years yet be subject to eviction at the landlord’s whim -- and the only requirement for landlords is that they provide 30 to 90 days’ notice that the tenancy is not being renewed,” Legal Aid Society attorney Ellen Davidson said.

But critics claim the bill would usher in statewide rent control and less quality, affordable housing.

“Simply put, there is just not enough support in the legislature for this bill because legislators from across the state — and on both sides of the aisle — know it would do nothing but make owning and renting property in New York state a losing proposition,” said Ross Wallenstein, spokesperson for Homeowners for An Affordable New York, which represents real estate, property owners, builders and affordable housing providers.

‘Don’t Stay’: Nonprofit Founded by Survivor of Domestic Abuse Works to Support Others and Raise Awareness

“Amanda Palasciano knew there was something off with her relationship. She and her partner were together for a number of years, they lived in a nice, affluent neighborhood and her partner made a healthy income. That’s what was so confusing for her.

Palasciano is a survivor of domestic violence (DV). While she wasn’t being beaten or pushed around every day, he did control their finances and influenced her ability to make decisions for herself. Palasciano was being abused psychologically and emotionally in a calculated manner that allowed her partner to manipulate her and her actions…”

N.Y. Budget a mixed bag for housing as advocates ready for ‘good cause’ fight

“… Homeowners for An Affordable New York, a landlord-backed group, celebrated that “good cause” did not make its way into the budget.

“Simply put, there is just not enough support in the legislature for this bill because legislators from across the state — and on both sides of the aisle — know it would do nothing but make owning and renting property in New York State a losing proposition,” spokesman Ross Wallenstein said in a statement. “Common sense thankfully prevailed.”

Major housing policy items left to be debated post-budget

“… Good cause' eviction: A measure to prevent certain evictions and effectively limit rent increases across the state was not taken up in the budget, but tenant groups are looking to get the bill done in the coming months…

Though the legislation was not seriously considered in the budget, and activist groups had been planning to ramp up their push post-budget, those opposing the “good cause” bill framed the fact that it wasn’t included as a victory.

Legislators from across the state — and on both sides of the aisle — know it would do nothing but make owning and renting property in New York State a losing proposition,” Ross Wallenstein, spokesperson for Homeowners for an Affordable New York, a group formed to fight the measure, said in a statement.”

11 New York Congress members throw their support behind ‘good cause’ eviction bill

“… Real estate lobbyists have been outspoken about their opposition to the bill’s passage, likening it to rent control. They have argued this is a hit on smaller landlords in the state, and the proposal would lead to higher rents on vacant properties.

“The Legislation, as envisioned by Albany, will lead to significantly higher rents on vacant units and will have almost no impact on how much current renters pay,” said Ross Wallenstein, a spokesperson for Homeowners for An Affordable New York, an organization of homeowners campaigning against the bill. “Eviction is an absolute last resort for any property owner, and this bill does nothing to alleviate renters from being removed due to lack of payment, which is almost always the cause for an eviction.”

'Good Cause Eviction' state legislation should be rejected

By Mitchell Pally and Kyle Strober

“Long Island is in desperate need of multifamily and affordable housing. No one on either side of the political aisle can reasonably challenge this stark reality but the issue is being held hostage by political extremists in Albany…”

Labor unions press state lawmakers to pass new tenant protections in Good Cause Eviction bill

"…These unions may think they are helping everyday renters, but really what they will do in pushing for this overreaching legislation is causing higher property taxes, higher rents, fewer quality homes and impossible undue burdens on property owners,” Wallenstein said.”

How New York officials want to tackle housing costs

“… Landlord organizations, however, insist the measure would not address the cost of rent facing tenants while also creating a burden on property owners.

‘The so-called 'Good Cause Eviction' bill currently being paraded around the Capitol by a handful of vocal activists would do nothing to relieve the housing crisis in our state," said Ross M. Wallenstein, a spokesman for Homeowners for an Affordable New York. "It would only make owning and renting property an untenable proposition for all involved. We would see skyrocketing rents on vacant units and it would further complicate the already volatile housing market….”

Tenants call for ‘good cause’ legislation in NYC’s eviction epicenter

“Good cause eviction would be a disaster for tenants, property owners and New York's already volatile housing market,” said Ross Wallenstein a spokesperson for the newly-formed landlord Homeowners for an Affordable New York, a coalition of landlord groups who’ve joined together to fight the bill’s passage. “If it is passed, it will dramatically increase rents on vacant apartments, making them unaffordable to the average New Yorker.”

Rep. Kathleen Rice’s retirement sets up Democratic primary sprint

“I don’t think it’s a coincidence that she’s retiring after the district map came out,” Democratic strategist Ross Wallenstein, who served as an assistant to former New York Gov. David Paterson, told Jewish Insider.

New York’s new congressional maps were signed into law on Feb. 3. But the 4th Congressional District, which includes parts of western Long Island — central and southern Nassau County, including the Five Towns, home to a large Orthodox community — changed little under the new maps, aside from some modifications on the margins. She won the district by eight percentage points in 2020, and President Joe Biden carried it by 12.

“She was in a pretty safe seat, she could have been there for as long as she wanted,” Wallenstein continued…”

Protesters in Midtown demand rent relief from Gov. Hochul as many face eviction

"… We would love to see all or most of that $2 billion go to rental relief directly," said Jay Martin, with the Community Housing Improvement Program.

Martin represents 4,000 small property owners around New York City who he says have been hard hit too and back rent relief.

"Our property owners don't want to have to evict their clients en masse, so to prevent that, we need the government to help us cover the cost of housing that's already been provided," he said…”

Landlords Wage Crusade Against ‘Good Cause’ Anti-Eviction Bill

“…Fontas referred calls to campaign spokesperson Ross M. Wallenstein, who provided a statement to THE CITY.

“Homeowners for an Affordable New York is an organization working collaboratively with property owners advocating that policymakers ensure fair and equitable solutions to practical issues in housing and real estate that affect every single New Yorker, no matter where and how they live,” he wrote…”

Rikers is a scandal; NYC's federal jails are a bigger one

By Andrew Laufer

“The treatment of prisoners at New York City’s infamous Rikers Island — where 15 inmates died in custody last year alone — has been discussed and debated at great lengths. The jail is slated to be closed by 2026, at which time its inmates will be sent to other facilities throughout the city.

Rikers is indeed terrible, as anyone who has been there to visit a client, a friend or a loved one can woefully attest. But there is a place that may be even worse right here in New York, and no one is doing anything about it…”

Property owners, advocates call on state to pay tenants' back rent

A dozen landlords, tenant groups, builders and real estate agents signed letter to Hochul

“A letter signed by the leaders of multiple home builder, real estate and property owner associations calls for the state to put $2 billion toward rental assistance programs.

When Gov. Kathy Hochul revealed her executive budget proposal in January, she included $2 billion for pandemic recovery initiatives that would be decided by the Legislature…”

New York real estate organizations pen letter calling for $2 billion in relief funding to aid renters and property owners

“A coalition of New York’s real estate organizations are calling on the state’s senators and Congress delegates to get more aid for the state’s rental market.

In a letter addressed to Senator Chuck Schumer, Senator Kirsten Gillibrand and Members of New York’s Congressional Delegation, twelve New York real estate organizations are asking for $2 billion in funding for rent relief not just for renters, but for the state’s rental property owners who are struggling to pay expenses because of rent not being paid…”

Artist talks Long Island City rent-free housing in Stonehenge residency program

“Twenty artists were selected for a yearlong, rent-free residency in New York City by the real estate company Stonehenge, which selected artists from across the world for its inaugural “Still Standing” residency program.

The luxury apartments where the artists reside in both Queens and Manhattan are a way for Stonehenge to give back to the art community during the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. Each artist was given a one-bedroom apartment from March 2021 to February 2022…”

Rose’s congressional hopes likely hinge on redistricting outcome, analysts say

“… Ross Wallenstein, a Democratic strategist who served as an assistant to former New York Gov. David Paterson, added that the general election race is likely to be hotly contested, no matter the composition of the district…”

A Synagogue Feud Spills Into Public View: ‘Only Room for One Rabbi’

Rabbi Arthur Schneier abruptly fired Rabbi Benjamin Goldschmidt from Park East Synagogue, and long-simmering tensions publicly exploded in a way rabbinic rivalries rarely do.

“Rabbi Arthur Schneier has spent decades shaping Park East Synagogue into one of the most prominent synagogues in New York, a public showcase for Modern Orthodox Judaism that has drawn visiting world leaders, including Pope Benedict XVI. He became synonymous with the synagogue and grew in stature by founding a school renamed in his honor and a nonprofit focused on human rights.

Ten years ago, he hired Benjamin Goldschmidt to be assistant rabbi, a dutiful job that has never been a steppingstone to the synagogue’s senior position. But Rabbi Goldschmidt, young and charismatic, quickly began to develop his own following by focusing on the spiritual needs of what he calls ‘the next generation of Jews.’…”

The 2021 Long Island Power 100

Ross Wallenstein launched Wall to Wall Communications in July, bringing with him years of experience in state government and public relations, with stops at J Strategies, Marathon Strategies and Marino. The Long Island resident has worked with elected officials such as former Rep. Gary Ackerman and former Govs. Eliot Spitzer and David Paterson. Wallenstein spent this past year heading communications for Assembly Member David Weprin during his campaign for New York City comptroller.

OpEd: Long Island’s Elections Are The True Bellwether

By Ross M. Wallenstein

“… The argument is, as goes Virginia, so goes the rest of the country. But I would argue that Nassau County is even more predictive than Virginia.

Nassau is home to almost 1.4 million people, larger than each of the 10 least populated states in the country. The County is a microcosm of not only New York but of the entire country. It is ethnically diverse, but it’s also made up of families and individuals across all age groups and income brackets…”

How apple and pumpkin picking turned into a parent’s worst nightmare

“Stacey Wallenstein dreads fall. As soon as closed-toe shoes and the smell of pumpkin spice start to surface, the panic sets in.

“Inevitably, someone’s going to bring it up. It’s going to happen,” said Wallenstein, a 43-year-old Long Island mom of three.

The feared event isn’t a dentist appointment or even a mandatory viewing of the film version of “Cats.” It’s supposedly happy, perfectly Instagrammed outings to the orchards.

“Apple-picking sucks,” declared Wallenstein, who kvetched about the autumnal activity on her blog, the Mint Chip Mama. “Can we just drop the charade?”

Company provides artists with rent-free living

“During the height of the pandemic, New Yorkers were reminded of what makes the city’s heart beat — its arts and culture.

Stonehenge, a real estate company based in New York City, feels the same way. In an effort to fill the void created by quarantine and isolation, the company created the NYC Still Standing Residency.

In exchange for regular commissions of their work, Stonehenge gifted 20 applicants with one year of free residency at their properties in Queens and Manhattan.

Ofer Yardeni, chairman and CEO of Stonehenge, said it was incredibly difficult to choose just 20 artists out of the nearly 1,000 applicants for the program…”

Kathy, learn from Hugh: What Carey’s lesson teaches Hochul

By Ross M. Wallenstein

“When she assumed the governorship following the resignation of Andrew Cuomo, Kathy Hochul became the first woman to lead the state. Few people realize, however, that Hochul - a former member of Congress from Buffalo - also became the second governor in a century with any congressional experience.

The governor needs only to look a mere 40 years back — to the days of the late Hugh Carey — for inspiration on how to best use her resume to New York’s advantage…”

Comms pros react to Biden’s Afghanistan speech: “Too little, too late.”

“… Analyzing Biden’s press conference, Ross Wallenstein, founder and CEO of Wall to Wall Communications, told PRWeek that he thought it was “good” but also “too little, too late” in the midst of a full Taliban takeover, which began in earnest last week.

“While a public statement from the commander in chief would have been better a few days ago, the process has been in motion for months and no amount of explaining to a very divided electorate would have done much good,” said Wallenstein.”

Lifting the Curtain Ep. 4: Ross Wallenstein, Wall to Wall Communications

Ross Wallenstein has spent over two decades working in government and public affairs, campaigns and public relations. Now he’s on his own, having just launched his firm, Wall to Wall Communications. Learn about Ross, his background and outlook on NYC.

“… TRANSITIONS — … Ross Wallenstein has launched Wall to Wall Communications, where he is CEO. He most recently was director of comms for David Weprin’s campaign for NYC comptroller, and is a J Strategies and Marino alum…”