Mike Lawler: “I rise today to honor a good man and an exceptional leader in my district, David Kirschtel, the chief executive officer…”

“I rise today to honor a good man and an exceptional leader in my district, David Kirschtel, the chief executive officer of JCC Rockland. Marking 25 years in June of this year, David has poured his heart into building the JCC into what it is today: a thriving center for fitness, early childhood education, summer camps, and cultural life. The JCC has served not just the Jewish community, but the broader Rockland community, as well. David's legacy goes beyond just the JCC. He was a driving force behind the global effort to honor the Munich 11, Israeli athletes murdered at the 1972 Olympics. Thanks to his work and the work of many others, the world finally paused to remember these victims with a moment of silence at the Tokyo Games in 2021. In addition, he has been a leading voice in the effort to combat anti-Semitism, especially after the terrorist attack on October 7, 2023. I am proud to call him a constituent and even prouder to call him a friend. I thank David for setting an example that reminds all of us what it means to lead with heart, purpose, and persistence.”