Rabbi Mendel Aisenbach, Executive Director of the Jewish Foundation for the Vision Impaired, was invited to make a Chanukah party at New York Governer Paterson’s office. He was accompanied by Rabbi Chezky Wolf of Chabad of Manhattan and Rabbi Avraham Kozliner.
“The Rebbe discussed about the Tanya being printed in braille, and how chassidus should be translated into other languages, including braille, to reach many more people,” said Aisenbach. “The Rebbe’s sicha was the inspiration behind the organization, having established the idea of publishing chassidus in braille, so I thought a book with the Rebbe’s teachings would be a fitting gift for the governor at this event.”
As a gift for the governor, Vaad Hanochos B’Lahak provided the latest published edition of the Rebbe’s works, with the words ‘Governor DP’ in braille on the cover.
At the party assistant to the governor Howie Katz represented him, as the governor is absent in Iraq. Katz said that he felt bad that the governor couldn’t be there in person, but sends his best wishes. He also related his experiences with Chabad, and said he once met with Shliach Nechemia Wilhelm in Bangkok. He praised Chabad’s dedication, and spoke of the Holtzbergs and the tragedy in Mumbai.
Rabbi Avraham Kozliner spoke with Katz about Chabad in Russia, and the sacrfices made by his father years ago, during the Communist oppression.
The hour-long visit ended with Katz watching the JEM video of Chanukah Live with the Rebbe.
Why is it that we have three Shluchim dressing in such poor taste? Is this the way we take our honors seriously? I understand the GOV himself wasn’t there, but still. I am proud of Lubavitvhfor being invited, but please … look like a Mentch! Wear Shabbos hats. Suits, Ties as if you were going to a special event. Your dress shows, you didn’t take this seriously.
Rabbi Chodokov once told a group of Bochrim, before they went out on Merokos Shluchus to make sure they polish their shoes. He said you are representing the Rebbe, and appearence counts.