Nassau County Executive, Legislator Visit Rebbe’s Ohel

Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman visited the Rebbe‘s Ohel, accompanied by Legislator Mazi Pilip and more than a dozen Chabad Shluchim representing communities across Nassau County.

The delegation gathered in unity and prayer, with Bruce Blakeman donning tefillin with Rabbi Zalman Wolowik. In heartfelt remarks, he praised Chabad’s enduring accomplishments and its dedication to Jewish life across Long Island.

Legislator Mazi Pilip, a proud Jew herself, lauded Mr. Blakeman’s strength, resilience, and unwavering support of Israel, highlighting his steadfast stance against antisemitism.

In a moving gesture of gratitude, Rabbi Zalman Wolowik presented Mr. Blakeman with a shofar — symbolizing uplift, resilience, and a call for unity — as a token of appreciation for his principled leadership. He shared, “The shofar is more than a horn; it is a voice from the depths of the soul. Just as its sound rises upward, so too does it remind us to lift ourselves above despair and recommit to faith, resilience, and unity.”

Rabbi Eli Goodman added: “Seeing Bruce proudly express his Jewish identity in such a public way encourages so many of us not to bow to antisemitism, but instead to stand tall and respond with acts of goodness and kindness.”

Rabbi Anchelle Perl expressed appreciation for the county executive’s commitment to ensuring security for all houses of worship, recognizing his leadership in protecting faith communities. This visit underscored a deep sense of unity, strength, and hope. We are grateful for leaders like Bruce Blakeman who not only stand with our community but also stand up for the values of faith, resilience, and light in the face of darkness.

In a solemn moment at the Ohel, County Executive Blakeman offered prayers for peace in the Middle East and for the safe release of all hostages.

In attendance were the following Chabad rabbis representing Nassau County: Rabbi Mendy Brownstein, Rabbi Yona Eidelkopf, Rabbi Nochum Goldschmidt, Rabbi Eli Goodman, Rabbi Mendy Gordon, Rabbi Levi Gurkov, Rabbi Shimon Kramer, Rabbi Yossi Lieberman, Rabbi Sholom Paltiel, Rabbi Anchelle Perl, Rabbi Nochum Tennenbaum, Rabbi Zalman Wolowik.