Mayor Jack Martins Gets Send-Off to Israel
August 29, 2008, Mineola, NY ---
Mineola Mayor Jack Martins is on his way to visit Israel and he received a supportive send-off from the Long Island Jewish community.
Rabbi Anchelle Perl of Chabad of Mineola and Rabbi Levi Gurkov of Chabad of Oceanside presented Mayor Martins with a written message from the Long Island congregations to be delivered to the Western Wall. They also presented donations to be delivered to the poor in Jerusalem.
Concerning his trip, Mayor Martins stated: “I have become very close to the Chabad in my home village of Mineola and have had the privilege of working with Rabbi Perl on a number of good causes. I can’t wait to visit the holy places which he talks about with such reverence and enthusiasm.”
Martins, a candidate for Congress in the Fourth Congressional District, has been urged by his Jewish supporters to visit Israel so that he will have a true appreciation not only of their religious tradition but also of the difficult challenges faced by that nation. He had made a promise to visit Israel and he is now keeping it.
“Whether as a Mayor or as a Congressman, I consider it very important to understand and be a part of the lives of all of my constituents. Their interests are my interests; their concerns are my concerns,” said Martins. “I am privileged to deepen my relationships with the Jewish community through this trip to Israel.”
“Israel, today, faces many challenges from all sides. I understand that there is only so much one can learn from newspapers and the media. That is why I am going. I am committed to learning as much as I can first hand.”
Martins, who was briefed on Israel by AIPAC (American Israeli Public Affairs Committee) earlier this month, plans to visit the Western Wall, Sderot, and the Golan Heights as well as hold meetings with Israeli leaders including some fellow mayors.
“Upon my return I just know that I will have a tremendous experience to share with my family, friends and the entire community.”
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