FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact: Maury Litwack
202-513-6484
July 1, 2009

ORTHODOX JEWISH COMMUNITY MEETS CONNECTICUT CONGRESSMAN JIM HIMES
Orthodox Union facilitates key meeting in Southern Connecticut with Congressman’s visit to local synagogue to address leaders

U.S. Congressman Jim Himes (D-CT-4) recently met in Stamford, Connecticut with leadership of the Union of Orthodox Jewish Congregations of America (the “Orthodox Union”), the nation’s largest Orthodox Jewish umbrella organization, and local Orthodox community leaders. The meeting took place at local Orthodox Union member synagogue, Congregation Agudath Sholom.

Congressman Himes took time from his busy schedule to hear from these Orthodox Union and community leaders regarding key issues, including the U.S.-Israel relationship, the Iranian nuclear threat, homeland security grants for vulnerable non-profits, support of “green” energy efficient funding for nonprofit building upgrades, and the increasing burden of day school education costs.

Rabbi Daniel Cohen, Rabbi of Agudath Sholom, commented:

Our leadership breakfast with Congressman Himes clearly proved the significance of cultivating relationships with our representatives. Beyond the open discussion of international and domestic policies of concern to our community, our members deeply appreciated the opportunity to engage in an ongoing dialogue with Congressman Himes and forge a friendship based on our common values and ideals. We are grateful to the leadership of the OU for their support and guidance and encourage all synagogues to reach out to their local and national representatives.

Mr. Terry Augenbraun, an Orthodox Union board member, stated:

We in Fairfield, Connecticut applaud the Orthodox Union in organizing a wonderful meeting with newly elected representative Jim Himes. An honest and open dialogue on Israel and local issues occurred. We asked and received from the Congressman his support on House Bill 2454 that will enable nonprofits to participate in environmental improvements to reduce our carbon footprint. A discussion also occurred on charter schools.

This meeting is part of a nationwide effort by the Union of Orthodox Jewish Congregations of America’s Institute for Public Affairs to facilitate discussion between our community leadership and their elected officials.

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