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Since Kathleen Courtney Hochul began her stint as governor of New York on August 24, 2021, she has worked tirelessly to gain the support of her constituents. To rebuild New York State post-pandemic, Hochul celebrated a key milestone this past week, announcing the Port Authority’s transformation of John F. Kennedy International Airport with the groundbreaking of a $1.5 billion privately financed expansion and modernization of Terminal 4, to be completed within two short years. “Today’s groundbreaking is a huge part in the story of New York’s comeback from the hardship we underwent during the pandemic,” Hochul said. “The economic impact of this transformation will be felt for decades, while solidifying our state’s global leading role in welcoming visitors from abroad and those returning home. I look forward to all this partnership with the Port Authority and Delta will bring to New York.” Plans are set to include a major concourse expansion to add ten new gates, the renovation of existing concourses, and roadway upgrades to improve access for vehicles.

On Sunday evening, December 19, Ethan Felder, a Forest Hills District Leader, held a holiday gathering in support of his candidacy for the New York State Assembly 28th District. Assembled at a Forest Hills business on Ascan Avenue, the event attracted over 50 enthusiasts for Felder.

On Sunday evening, December 12, Get Real with Coach Menachem featured Rabbi Ben Tzion Shafier, Founder of The Shmuz. Rabbi Shafier conducted an interactive shiur on how to have a successful marriage. He shared information from his new sefer, The 10 Really Dumb Mistakes That Very Smart Couples Make: A Torah-Based Guide to a Successful Marriage.

Elected officials, rabbonim, and community leaders gathered to honor Council Member Karen Koslowitz for her service to her constituents as a member of the New York City Council over the past eight years.

On Wednesday evening, December 16, Chazaq, Breslov.org, and the Breslov Research Institute hosted an inspiring event sponsored by Sorelle Idels and Shimmy Idels l’ilui nishmas their beloved first cousin, Mordechai Tzvi ben Elimelech (Moti Kest), who was recently niftar at the age of 42. He was a very special person who volunteered for Hatzalah, and he was a pillar in his community.

In Parshas Sh’mos, Hashem for the first time informs Moshe Rabbeinu that He will strengthen Pharaoh’s heart, and Pharaoh will repeatedly refuse to release the Jewish people from Egypt. Chazal grapple with the question of how the strengthening and hardening of Pharaoh’s heart by Hashem goes together with the concept of free will. Moreover, how can Hashem even punish Pharaoh for his stubborn refusal to release the Jewish people if he was not acting on his own?