SENATOR KLEIN HOSTS 2nd ANNUAL JEWISH AMERICAN HERITAGE CELEBRATION
May 15, 2016
Jewish American Community Leaders and Hundreds of Bronxites Gather to Celebrate Jewish Heritage Month at Bronx House
BRONX, NY – State Senator Jeff Klein (D-Bronx/Westchester) hosted his 2nd Annual Jewish Heritage Celebration on Sunday at Bronx House, honoring local community leaders and honoring the over 350-year history of Jewish contributions to American society and culture.
“Each year, I am proud to celebrate Jewish American Heritage Month and recognize the valuable contributions that Jewish Americans have made to our communities. Our nation was built by hardworking individuals whose perseverance and dedication to seeing a brighter future for all will never be forgotten. Thank you for joining me today to salute those who have made a positive difference in our communities and improving the quality of life for their fellow citizens,” said Senator Klein.
Joined by hundreds of community members, Senator Klein highlighted the contributions of outstanding Jewish Americans including: Charles Landsberg, president of the Jewish Community Council of Pelham Parkway; Arlene Salman, board member of Bronx Jewish Community Council and co-chair of B.J.C.C. Marketing Committee; and the late community activist Blanche Comras Rifkin.
“I am grateful for this recognition and feel honored. I had large shoes to fill when I took the office many years ago, as Senator Klein was a predecessor. He set an example that I have tried to continue,” Charles Landsberg, president of the Jewish Community Council of Pelham Parkway.
“I am honored to have been selected to be recognized for my work with Bronx Jewish Community Council, an organization that does so much for all of the people of The Bronx. It makes me good to feel that I make a difference to those who need help. Thank you Senator Klein for having this program and making people aware of the need to give back to the community,” said Arlene Salman, board member of Bronx Jewish Community Council and co-chair of B.J.C.C. Marketing Committee.
“The whole family is very thrilled and honored that Senator Klein is recognizing our mother’s life’s work for Jewish Heritage Month,” said Madelyn Katz, daughter of the late Blanche Comras Rifkin.
Students from P.S. 105 recited poetry of Jewish faith and culture, entertaining the crowd. After a complimentary lunch and the awards ceremony, guests enjoyed popcorn and watched “A Gentleman’s Agreement,” which is an award-winning film about a journalist who goes undercover in New York City to expose anti-semitism.
Senator Jeff Klein will also host another Jewish Heritage Celebration on Sunday, May 22nd at the Riverdale YM - YMHA.
