Dave Crystal is a vibrant young man who is used to working hard. Crystal grew up in Staten Island and attended Yeshivah of Flatbush and Poly Prep High School. He is a graduate of Penn with degrees in philosophy, politics and economics. He has an MBA in finance and marketing. He has worked as a Wall Street analyst, a licensed financial adviser, an entrepreneur, and is the founder of Crystal Clear Tutors.
Crystal is used to getting involved. He has taken on difficult tasks, fought against corruption and advocated for causes. His latest pursuit, however, could be his most daunting. Dave Crystal is a Torah-observant Jew running for the office of Miami Beach Commissioner.
Crystal points out that because he is Sabbath observant he can only campaign six days a week while his opponents can stump the full seven days. The election will be on November 5 and the holiday period will make him inaccessible in a very critical time of electioneering. He is often invited to events where he cannot eat and he needs to explain kashrut to people who are unaware of the dietary restrictions. Perhaps the greatest challenge, Crystal says is “fending off criticism while not engaging in lashon hara against others, especially those who are making false accusations.”
Nevertheless, Crystal sees great advantages rather than obstacles that result from acting on his beliefs. Crystal says the Torah gives moral authority and sense of purpose in pursing justice. He hopes that this direction, his ability to seek creative solutions and his willingness to fight for what is right will be a winning combination.
Dave Crystal hopes that other frum Jews will get involved in the political process. He believes the essence of responsibility is in action and not standing idly by.
For more information visit www.CrystalforCommissioner.com.