Governor Candidate Blakeman Celebrates Sukkos in Crown Heights

New York Republican gubernatorial nominee Bruce Blakeman visited Crown Heights on Monday evening, joining members of the community for a Sukkos celebration and receiving a warm welcome from local residents.

Blakeman, who currently serves as Nassau County Executive and is running for governor in the November election, spent time with members of the community during Chol Hamoed, amid the festive atmosphere in the neighborhood.

Several months ago, Blakeman toured Crown Heights, when he walked along Kingston Avenue and met with local residents, business owners and community activists to hear their concerns on issues affecting the neighborhood. The visit included discussions about the cost of doing business in New York, public safety and other concerns facing local residents.

More recently, ahead of Rosh Hashana, Blakeman visited the Rebbe’s Ohel together with his son Avi and Five Towns shliach Rabbi Zalman Wolowik. During the visit, he wrote a pan and davened at the Ohel.

Blakeman, who is Jewish, has made a number of visits to Chabad communities and the Ohel and has spoken publicly about his admiration for the Rebbe and his relationship with Chabad shluchim.

Monday night’s visit took on a different atmosphere from his previous Crown Heights tour, as Blakeman joined residents in celebrating Sukkos and Simchas Beis Hashoeivah.

Photo credit: Benny Polatseck