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By The President Of The United States Of America

This Jewish American Heritage Month, we honor the countless contributions of Jewish Americans throughout our Nation’s 250 glorious years of independence, and we celebrate their unwavering commitment to the values that make our country great—faith, family, and freedom.

In his letter to the Hebrew Congregation in Newport, Rhode Island, in 1790, President George Washington beautifully said, “May the Children of the Stock of Abraham, who dwell in this land, continue to merit and enjoy the good will of the other Inhabitants; while everyone shall sit in safety under his own vine and fig tree, and there shall be none to make him afraid.” Since the earliest days of our Republic, Jewish Americans have helped build the cause of liberty and sustain the greatness of our Nation. Among them was the iconic Haym Salomon, an early supporter of the war for independence. As stories tell us, Salomon was instrumental in the success of our Continental Congress and Founding Fathers, and rallied support for freedom. He was a zealous advocate against tyranny, and even after imprisonment by the British Crown, he continued his work in defense of freedom. In the end, he gave everything to the success of the American Revolution. Like so many Jewish Americans who follow in his footsteps, Salomon’s legacy stands as a testament to the unshakable belief in the American promise.

In the same letter to the Hebrew Congregation at Newport, President Washington proclaimed that the United States “gives to bigotry no sanction, to persecution no assistance.” Under my leadership, we are aggressively fighting the violence against Jewish Americans that increased under my predecessor, prosecuting hateful criminals to the fullest extent of the law, and working to end the scourge of anti-Semitism throughout our institutions, especially on college campuses. As President, I will never stop fighting to protect our birthright of religious freedom—a sacred right that continues to guide our Nation, drawing us closer to the Almighty each and every day.

Throughout this historic year, we rejoice in the triumph of the American spirit and rededicate ourselves to the cause of liberty and justice for all. In special honor of 250 glorious years of American independence and on the weekend of Rededicate 250—a national jubilee of prayer, praise, and thanksgiving—Jewish Americans are encouraged to observe a national Sabbath. From sundown on May 15 to nightfall on May 16, friends, families, and communities of all backgrounds may come together in gratitude for our great Nation. This day will recognize the sacred Jewish tradition of setting aside time for rest, reflection, and gratitude to the Almighty.

This month, we celebrate the contributions that Jewish Americans have made to our way of life, we honor their role in shaping the story of our Nation, and we remember that religious devotion, learning, and service to others are enduring pillars of a thriving culture. Through every trial and triumph, the contributions of Jewish Americans have shaped our past, have strengthened our communities, and will continue to inspire American greatness for generations to come.

Now, Therefore, I, Donald J. Trump, President of the United States of America, by virtue of the authority vested in me by the Constitution and the laws of the United States, do hereby proclaim May 2026 as Jewish American Heritage Month. I call upon Americans to celebrate the heritage and contributions of Jewish Americans and to observe this month with appropriate programs, activities, and ceremonies. I further call on all Americans to celebrate their faith and freedom throughout this year, during this month, and especially on Shabbat to celebrate our 250th year. 

Village of Cedarhurst Breaks Ground on Washington Ave. Parking Field Expansion

On May 1, Benjamin Weinstock and the Board of Trustees marked the start of the expansion of Parking Field 10 on Washington Ave, with construction scheduled to begin on May 11.

The project will add 55 new parking spaces to support Cedarhurst’s shopping area, where demand for parking has steadily increased. On any given day, the stores are busy and finding a spot can be a challenge, particularly during peak hours. This expansion is intended to improve access, reduce congestion in the surrounding area, and make visits more convenient for both residents and those coming into the Village.

The additional spaces are being added as part of a broader effort to keep pace with how the business district is being used day to day. With more people spending time in Cedarhurst, ensuring that parking remains available and accessible has become an important part of maintaining our Village charm.

Mayor Weinstock said, “We’re seeing more people come through our business district, and that’s a good thing. This expansion is about keeping up with that and making sure our local shops remain easy to access.”

The Village continues to focus on improvements that support both businesses and residents and will share updates as work on Parking Field 10 moves ahead. The existing parking field will close for about 6 weeks starting on May 13th for the installation of new drainage, lighting, and a realignment of the parking spaces and metering system. n

Village of Cedarhurst Honors Two Longtime Leaders of the Lawrence-Cedarhurst Fire Department

Mayor Ben Weinstock honors Former Chiefs and Commissioners James Cavanagh and Michael Rizzo

On May 3, 2026, Mayor Benjamin Weinstock and the Board of Trustees presented citations to two distinguished members of the Lawrence-Cedarhurst Fire Department in recognition of their 50 years of dedicated service to the Village and surrounding community.

Former Chiefs and Commissioners James Cavanagh and Michael Rizzo were honored for their extraordinary commitment, having served since 1976. Over the past five decades, both have played a critical role in protecting property and safeguarding the lives of residents.

Throughout their careers, Cavanagh and Rizzo have consistently gone beyond the call of duty, demonstrating leadership, reliability, and a deep sense of responsibility to the community. Their decades of experience and dedication have helped shape the strength and professionalism of the department.

Mayor Weinstock praised both honorees, stating, “Fifty years of service is an incredible milestone, and it speaks to the kind of commitment that truly defines a community. James and Michael have dedicated their lives to protecting others, and the Village is grateful for everything they’ve done over the years.” n

Senator Canzoneri-Fitzpatrick Honors Inwood Student for Book Publication

Senator Canzoneri-Fitzpatrick honors Thomas Otriz Jr.

Senator Patricia Canzoneri-Fitzpatrick welcomed Thomas Ortiz Jr. of Inwood, along with his family, to recognize him on the publication of his book, “Thomas Makes a Promise.”

Ortiz, age 7, is a first-grade student at Lawrence Primary School in the Lawrence Union Free School District. His book is inspired by his own experience of starting at a new school and learning how to make new friends. Through his story, he hopes to help other children navigate similar transitions and build confidence in unfamiliar environments.

“At just 7 years old, with the support of his family, Thomas Ortiz has accomplished something truly remarkable. Inspired by his own experience starting at a new school, Thomas turned a personal challenge into a story that will help other children build confidence and make new friends. I was proud to recognize Thomas in the Senate Chamber and celebrate his creativity, courage, and outstanding achievement,” said Senator Patricia Canzoneri-Fitzpatrick.

Thomas’s mother, Angela Ortiz, expressed her pride in her son’s accomplishment, stating, “We are incredibly proud of Thomas. This project grew out of his experience starting at a new school and finding his place. He worked so hard on his book and showed so much creativity and confidence throughout the process. We hope his story encourages other children to embrace new experiences and believe in themselves.”

Senator Canzoneri-Fitzpatrick added, “Thomas’s achievement serves as an inspiring example of how young voices can make a meaningful impact through storytelling.” 

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