News

With so much happening at this time, it may be easy to overlook that this week’s edition of the Queens Jewish Link is the 400^th since the first copy was published in 2012. The month of Adar also marks the 20^th anniversary since my parents purchased their house in Forest Hills. Looking back at these two chronological markers, we can see how much our community has matured in developing its voice, and my own personal growth.

Expectations of never having to experience a blizzard is one reason for moving to Texas, and last week’s deep freeze exposed a woefully unprepared infrastructure that resulted in power outages and burst pipes. Former members of the Queens Jewish community living in Texas spoke about the Arctic blast as an unexpected disaster in a state that is better known for facing tornadoes and hurricanes.

The appearance of a small swastika painted on a sign at the Rego Park Jewish Center was quickly addressed last week by Queens Shmira volunteers who had it scrubbed, public officials who condemned the unknown vandal, and the Police Hate Crimes Unit recognizing it as an unambiguous example of anti-Semitism.

The ongoing pandemic prevented this publication from hosting its annual Networking Event in person, and one may presume that participants ate heartily at home on the eve of Taanis Esther. As they ate, an impressive lineup of speakers offered insights on faith, marketing, and advertising.

A decade ago, the scene at a Masbia food pantry appeared relaxed in comparison to today. The original Queens location in Rego Park had the look of a restaurant for individuals in need of a meal. They were served in a dignified setting, staffed by volunteers during the afternoon hours. The economic downturn that resulted from the coronavirus pandemic turned a trickle into a flood of demand for kosher meal packages.

The race for the 24^th City Council District is not over yet. Although Councilman Jim Gennaro was sworn into office on February 18, it was to finish the final year of his predecessor Rory Lancman’s term, as he had resigned to take a job with the State. Starting this week, Gennaro and other candidates seeking a full four-year term in this district are petitioning for the June 22 primary.