Culture Clash (Or Why We Love the Lower East Side)

Shortly after 9 am Saturday morning, before the neighborhood awoke, a fire broke out in the kitchen of Congee Village and spread through the building ductwork. Plumes of smoke could be seen emanating from the rooftop of 101 Orchard Street, and the block was enveloped in thick haze.

When the smoke cleared (literally), a Jewish man in prayer shawl and yarmulke began pacing the area. His presence was such a culture clash that it warranted some photos. Was he searching for a minyan with some of the firefighters?

The Chabad Lower East Side branch operates in the Blue Moon Hotel directly across the way at 100 Orchard Street.