Last week, the Weekly Standard reported that Al Sharpton met with the president to give advice on the economy: Barack Obama met with Al Sharpton and other “African American leaders” to discuss the president’s “plan to strengthen the economy for the middle class and continue to build ladders of opportunity for those striving to get there,” according to the White House. This is not the first time the MSNBC host has met with/given advice to the president, but the question becomes why? more

Those of you who enjoyed the best of variety show television in the 1970s will surely recall Carole Burnett’s famous ear tug as she concluded each show. The signal of affection to her beloved aunt who was part of the viewing audience was accompanied by the melodic “I’m so glad we had this time together.” As I go to print today, I find this tune to be an apropos expression of my sentiments. This will be my last issue as Publisher and Editor of The Jewish Star. more

Anyone following politics in Israel over the past few months, and especially the campaigns for Knesset mandates, saw the true face of Israel’s complicated internal predicament. To those outside of Israel’s daily life, its story is one of existentialism because of an ever-looming threat from seemingly trigger-happy neighbors. more

The Young Israel of Hewlett is continuing the message of Purim, uniting Jews with Torah and mitzvoth (commandments) this Shabbat, as they participate, for the third time, in Shabbat Across America and Canada. The program was initiated in 1997 by NJOP, the National Jewish Outreach Program, to “get thousands of Jews to celebrate what unites all Jews,” said Larry Greenman, Assistant Director of NJOP. “It’s a campaign to take Shabbos and make it their own.” more

“The perception is that Passover is so expensive,” remarked Gourmet Glatt purchasing manager Howie Klagsburn, referring to the eight page Pesach circular that will reach every household this weekend consistent with the store’s Pesach opening and offerings. “The fact is you can’t buy many of the items at these prices during the year.” more

Supporters of Kulanu filled the ballroom at the Sands of Atlantic Beach on Saturday night, February 16 for their annual dinner. The evening’s Guests of Honor were Brenda and Stanley Goldstein and Friendship award recipients Raquel Bernstein and Adam Steiglitz. more

Young Israel of North Woodmere Youth Department held its annual Purim Carnival this past Sunday February 17, 2013 at their shul on Hungry Harbor Road in North Woodmere. more

This weekend, Jews around the world will be celebrating the fun-filled holiday of Purim. We will eat, drink, dress up and play make-believe. We will commemorate a special story, a drama with plot twists and heroes and thankfully a happy ending. Seemingly similar activities will be happening in Hollywood that day. more