JP: We are happy to note here that New York State Assembly Speaker Sheldon Silver�s 30 years of public service will be celebrated this week at a gala reception at Cipriani Wall Street in Manhattan.? ?

The Jewish Press has proudly reported over the years on the achievements of this remarkable public servant who, in addition to his stellar efforts on behalf of all New Yorkers, has been far and away the most prolific elected official anywhere in terms of obtaining wide-ranging legal protections that enable Jews as members of a religious minority to practice their religion free from economic, social or political discrimination. We believe it is especially noteworthy that Speaker Silver is an observant Jew who never forgot where he came from.