A Florida Shliach and A Florida Representative, Both From Crown Heights

U.S. Congressman Byron Donalds and his wife Erika were photographed with Rabbi Yitzchok and Rebbetzin Shani Minkowicz, Chabad Lubavitch emissaries in Southwest Florida.

At a private gathering, the Minkowicz’s thanked Rep. Donalds for his consistent support of Jewish communities, his efforts against antisemitism, and his strong backing of Israel.

The congressman mentioned that he and Rabbi Minkowicz both grew up in Crown Heights, Brooklyn, during the same years.

When Rep. Donalds asked Rebbetzin Shani if she was Orthodox (noting he knew handshakes aren’t customary), she replied with a cheerful “Yes, absolutely!” He smiled and offered a warm high-five instead, which she happily returned.

A simple, respectful moment between neighbors from the old block who found themselves together again many years later.