I was so fortunate that on December 12th I had the privilege to recite a Blessing over President Biden. I had been invited to Washington by our member Michael Weitz as his guest for the 75th anniversary of Toysfor Tots, a program run by the U.S. Marine Corps Reserves. Michael works with Marine Corps General
Bellon on an annual basis to organize and handle media for the Holiday Toy Drive. Michael had initially
arranged for a group picture, but when President Biden saw me, he came over and told
him that he had a close connection to the Jewish community during the civil rights movement when he
would attend daily 7 AM mass, and then go to the synagogue in the afternoon. I asked the
President if I could make the blessing to G-d thanking Him for allowing his glory to be placed upon
humans that recite when we see a Head of State. President Biden gave me his hand,
bowed his head, closed his eyes as I recited the blessing in Hebrew and then in English.
The President thanked the me and then moved on.
Also, a very big congratulations to Michael Weitz for receiving a Certificate of Award from the
Department of the Navy in appreciation of meritorious public service for Michael’s work with the Marine
Corps Reserve Toys for Kids program. Michael received the award from the Secretary of the Navy,
Carlos Del Torro. Well done, Michael!