The NYS Office of Homeland Security held an emergency community outreach meeting in light of the recent attempted car bombing in Times Square, NYC.

The meeting took place on Friday morning, at the Manhattan Headquarters of the NYS Department of Homeland Security, and was well attended from community leaders of all faiths throughout the 5 Boros of New York City.

The meeting was graced with the presence of top Homeland Security Officials, including the agency’s new Acting-Director, Mr. James Sherry, NYPD Officials, and representatives from the NYC mayors Office.

The meeting was opened with remarks by Rabbi Abe Friedman, who is the Liaison to the office of NYS Homeland Security, and introduced Acting-Director Sherry – who was just recently appointed by Governor David Paterson (replacing outgoing Director Thomas Donlan following his retirement).

Mr. Sherry thanked all the community leaders from the Asian, Korean, Jewish, African-American, Muslim & Latino Communities for their leadership and support in their respective communities. At the same time Director Sherry assured the gathering that in light of last weekend’s attempted terror incident in Times Square, that there is a continuous coordination, between all law enforcement agency’s throughout the entire State of NY. The priority of the Agency is protecting all communities and citizens in the entire State.

Mr Sherry also expressed his interest in any community related concerns in regards to any issues related to the office Of Homeland security, and relayed a message from the Governors Office that security for “houses of worship” will remain a top priority.

Also addressing the meeting were Office of Homeland Security Intelligence Agent – Former FBI Agent James Mikalic, and John Fuscou who delivered an intelligence briefing to the gathering..

YWN PHOTO LINK: Click HERE for photos taken at the meeting.

(Paloma Gefen – YWN)