A double extra large crowd (approx 800) of enthusiastic supporters of the State of Israel packed Tenafly New Jersey's JCC on the Palisades this evening to listen to speeches and commentary about the current situation in the Middle East. Attendance was so great that an overflow of about 200 people were diverted to the JCC's gymnasium to watch a live close circuit feed of the event.

On hand to register their support for the Jewish State were Senators Lautenberg and Menendez, New Jersey Senatorial hopeful Tom Kean, Jr., and a host of State and Local politicians. Israeli Deputy Consul General Benjamin Krasna updated the crowd on the current military situation, and reiterated Israel's vow to destroy Hezbollah and bring peace to Northern Israel. All comments made in support of Israel defending itself in the face of Islamic terror were met with approval and roaring applause by the audience.

We were updated about our sister city of Nahariya, who unfortunately has been the recipient of hundreds of Katyusha attacks over the last week, with at least 4 fatalities and many injuries. This charming seaside resort (pop. 60,000) is approximately 12 miles from the Lebanese border. The city's streets and beaches are empty, with all of the stores and banks closed for business by government order. Supermarkets are open (if permissible) for only 2 hours a day; and have been unable to receive shipments of fresh produce and dairy goods due to the current chaos. Although most residents spend their time in underground bunkers, spirits remain high that the crisis will soon end and life will return to normal.

At the evening's conclusion, we were urged to call our friends and relatives in Israel and let them know we're here supporting them. We made a donation to a UJA fund to bring children to Summer camps in Southern Israel, away from the rocket fire. We were also urged to call our Federal politicians and thank them for their support of Israel. This show of solidarity, and the feeling of pure energy in the room made all who attended hopeful that the Israel would soon prevail in this current crisis.