Yisroel R.

Boro Parkers who are used to seeing military helicopters and naval activity around Memorial Day will notice something different this year, as Fleet Week NYC is not taking place during its usual Memorial Day weekend schedule.

The annual tradition, which usually brings Navy, Marine Corps and Coast Guard members into the city along with military ships, flyovers and public events, has been shifted to July this year as part of the larger celebration marking America’s 250th anniversary.

The special celebration, known as Sail4th 250, is expected to bring a larger maritime display to New York Harbor from July 3 through July 8. The event will include tall ships, naval vessels and other patriotic events tied to the country’s milestone anniversary.

For many Brooklyn residents, especially those near the waterfront areas close to Boro Park and southern Brooklyn, Fleet Week and Memorial Day usually mean seeing military helicopters overhead and watching the ship parade pass through the harbor. This year, those familiar sights are expected to come later, closer to the Fourth of July.

Officials say the July celebration will bring Fleet Week together with the larger national anniversary events, turning New York Harbor into one of the main stages for America’s 250th birthday.

The Intrepid Museum also noted that while there is no Fleet Week in New York during Memorial Day weekend this year, it is still holding Memorial Day weekend programming to honor those who served.

By Y.M. Lowy

BoroPark24 [previously reported](http://New NYC Area Code Set to Begin Rolling Out) back in February 2025 that New York City would eventually be getting a brand-new area code when it was announced.

The New York State Public Service Commission says the new 465 area code is expected to begin rolling out by the end of 2026 as the city continues running out of available phone numbers under the current system.

That means new phone numbers issued across Brooklyn, Queens, the Bronx, and Staten Island may soon begin with 465 instead of the familiar 718, 347, 917, or 929.

The new area code is being introduced because the existing number combinations are becoming exhausted due to continued population growth, cell phone usage, and increasing demand for new lines and devices.

Current phone numbers will not change, and the older area codes will remain active. However, new customers receiving numbers in the future could begin seeing the new 465 prefix appear more regularly across the city.

For many New Yorkers, it will likely take some getting used to after decades of seeing the classic NYC area codes attached to nearly every local number.

YS GOLD 

As the Yom Tov of Shavuos came to a close, the Stoliner chassidus received the crushing news of the passing of Reb Moshe Chaim Berenstein of Eretz Yisroel who was in America for medical treatment and resided in Boro Park for much of this time. 

The name of “Moshe Chaim ben Rochel” had been on the lips of his countless friends and family as they supplicated the Ribbono shel Olam for his recovery. Alas, he was called back to Shamayim after being purified by intense suffering over a number of years. 

Reb Moshe Chaim was born to his parents, Reb Binyomin and Rochel Berenstein, into a Yerushalmi family that resided in the holy city for generations. 

He learned in the Stoliner yeshivos where he excelled and was known for his yiras Shomayim and ehrlichkeit.  

He married the daughter of Reb Yochanan Rosenthal of Givat Zeev, and established his home in among the young Stoliner community in Teveria. 

The dreaded disease hit suddenly and ferociously, and Reb Moshe Chaim and his family were thrust into a whirlwind of medical treatments—hoping and praying for a cure. 

Throughout this time, the Chessed of Klal Yisroel toward Reb Moshe Chaim and his family was on full display in breathtaking and deeply inspiring form. 

Askonim from Williamsburg and Boro Park hosted the family and cared for their every need, accompanied them to medical appointments, and were a constant presence in their lives, not leaving their side for a moment. 

Reb Moshe Chaim will live on the memories of all those who loved and cared for him, and he will be remembered for his incredible mesirus nefesh to serve Hashem despite his incredible suffering. 

A group of Stoliner yungeleit which davened and farbrenged at the Berenstein apartment every Shabbos over the last years was present as his neshamah ascended to the Olam Haemes in the waning moments of Yom Tov, escorting his purified neshamah with tefillos and tears. 

The levaya will take place at the Stoliner shul on 48th street and 16th Avenue at 9:00 Sunday morning, and from there it will proceed to JFK for Kevurah in Eretz Yisroel. 

A second levaya will take place in Eretz Yisroel with the participation of thousands of Stoliner chassidim from around the land. 

Yehi zichro baruch.

A scion of the Worka dynasty who served as a Rebbe of chassidim back in the prewar days, the Amshinover Rebbe, Rav Shimon Sholom Kalisch, came to Boro Park in the late 1940’s following a harrowing and difficult escape from war-torn Europe through Shanghai. 

Amshinov 

The Rebbe was born in the Polish city of Amshinov in the year 1882. His father was Rav Menachem Kalish, who was the son of Rav Yaakov Dovid Kalisch, the first Amshimover Rebbe who was the son of Rebbe Yitzchok of Worka. His mother was Rebbetzin Esther Golda Kalisch. 

From his early years, he was seen toiling in Torah and avodah with great intensity, and was known for his ahavas Hashem and ahavas Yisroel. The writer Dovid Halachmi would later write of the pride that his illustrious father had in his son, Shimon Sholom, and the esteem in which he was held from an early age. “He would circulate among the chassidim in the court, launching into conversations with them—many of them brokenhearted individuals—and thus getting to the core of their hearts. His first question to them would always be, ‘have you eaten something yet? How are you lodgings? Do you have adequate funds for your trip?’” 

The Rebbe married his cousin, Rebbetzin Feiga Brocho, the daughter of Rav Yeshayahu Kalisch of Peshischa. 

Shanghai 

In Shanghai, the Rebbe became a central figure. 

Recalled Reb Shimon Goldstein, a Lubavitcher bochur who spent the war years there: “The Rebbe’s home was open to all, and everyone felt at home. All the refugees would stream toward the home and feel as though they were in their own home. Just being there was a strengthening experience—imparting strength and inspiring the hope and faith that Hashem will ultimately save His People. 

“As for the Rebbe himself; I would never attempt to describe his incredible personality; it is simply indescribable. He was a man of Heaven who took upon himself in those difficult times to work without letup for the sake of the klal and for the wellbeing of every individual… 

“I had the privilege of being present at the Rebbe’s seder on Pesach night. I cannot recall the circumstances under which I was invited, but I can well recall the awesome atmosphere, the elevated feeling among all those present, and the long-lasting impression that it left upon myself and the others. 

“The Rebbe’s ahavas Yisroel was likewise extraordinary. We were living in a type of ghetto which the Japanese established after the American bombings in exceptionally-dire financial circumstances. One day an emissary of the Rebbe arrived with aid for the families, with precise instructions for how to distribute the aid. All of this was to be distributed without anyone knowing who their patron was, and in this way the Rebbe accomplished his objective.

“In 1942, reports began to filter in about the terrible atrocities being carried out against the Yidden of Poland. I was in the Rebbe’s surroundings when he heard about these reports. Anyone who has not seen the Rebbe’s pained expression, and heard his deep, heartbroken sighs upon hearing this cannot fathom the pain of a Yid.” 

Following the war, the Rebbe once again sought to go to up to Eretz Yisroel. Alas, its doors were still hermetically sealed under the British Mandate, and the Rebbe instead went to America. He settled in Williamsburg, and shortly thereafter in Boro Park. 

Upon his passing, the holy aron of the Rebbe was flown to Eretz Yisroel where he was escorted to his final resting place by a crowd of thousands, from all communities and denominations led by Admorim and Rabbonim. 

The Amshinover Rebbe was interred on the old cemetery in Teveria following a lifetime dedicated to Hashem and to his fellow Yidden. 

By BoroPark24 Staff

A dramatic scene unfolded this morning after a sinkhole opened beneath a dumpster truck at 19th Avenue and 51st Street, causing the heavy vehicle to partially collapse into the roadway.

Photos from the scene show the truck tilted sharply as its rear wheels sank deep into the ground after the pavement suddenly gave way beneath it. Dirt, rubble, and debris spilled across the street while workers scrambled to stabilize the vehicle.

Shmira members quickly arrived on scene and assisted with crowd control and safety efforts as emergency crews assessed the dangerous situation.

No serious injuries were immediately reported.

Heavy recovery equipment is expected to be brought in to remove the truck and repair the damaged section of roadway.

By Y.M. Lowy

Thursday, Erev Shavous, will be cooler with periods of rain and drizzle continuing into the afternoon. The high will reach 65 with a low of 56.

Friday will bring some sunshine to start the day before clouds gradually move in later on. Expect a high of 64 and a low of 51.

Shabbos will turn breezy and noticeably cooler with periods of rain through the day. Overall, conditions will feel dreary, with a high of 56 and a low of 52.

Sunday starts off cold and breezy with rain at times during the morning hours. Temperatures will reach a high of 60 with a low of 57.

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YS GOLD 

A massive blaze has broken out at Pier 18 and Yossel’s Hardware on 18th Avenue. 

A large number of firefighters are on the scene battling the blaze which moved very fast from the basement of Pier 18 to the neighboring Yossel’s Hardware. 

At least one firefighter was injured when he fell through the floor as he was engaged in fighting the blaze. 

The fire has not yet been brought under control at this time, although the FDNY is valiantly working to extinguish it.

photos: Avrumi Blum

By Y.M. Lowy

Mayor Zohran Mamdani, together with the Department of City Planning (DCP), has announced a new neighborhood planning effort that includes parts of Brooklyn just south of Prospect Park, near the Boro Park border along Coney Island Avenue and McDonald Avenue.

The focus is to look at how these neighborhoods can grow in the coming years, especially in areas where old zoning rules have limited new housing. Many of the streets in the area are currently made up of smaller buildings and shops, with very little new housing being built.

As part of the plan, the Department of City Planning will lead community engagement over the coming months. Residents and business owners will be invited to share feedback before any zoning changes or development ideas are finalized.

The proposal is expected to explore ways to add more housing, including affordable housing, and allow for a better mix of residential and commercial space in the same areas.

The plan is still in the early stages and no final decisions have been made. The process will continue through public meetings and outreach before any formal changes are considered.

Kitchens are already coming alive for Shavuos, and the BP24 Recipe Club is buzzing right along with it. From cheesecake ideas and dairy dishes to sides, dips, salads, pastas, and last minute inspiration, the group has turned into a nonstop flurry of food creativity.

As Yom Tov preparations pick up, more and more home cooks are jumping in to share what they’re making, ask questions, swap ideas, and help each other through the Shavuos cooking rush. The chat is full of delicious inspiration at all hours of the day.

Women looking for new ideas, practical recipes, or just an extra push of motivation before Yom Tov are invited to join the conversation and be part of it.

Join the BP24 Recipe Club and jump into the Shavuos whirlwind. The group is already cooking up a storm.

https://chat.whatsapp.com/BzV0hoO3NYs9V61pHvfre6?mode=gi_t

And beyond the WhatsApp group, the newly launched BP24 Recipe Club Instagram is bringing recipes to life with video. The page is constantly being updated with mouthwatering recipes you’ll want to try!

Follow along on Instagram for delicious recipe videos and plenty more cooking ideas as Shavuos approaches.

https://www.instagram.com/bp24recipeclub?igsh=cDhibXAxNmx1MGlo&utm_source=qr

Yisroel R.

Several New York City subway lines experienced delays, reroutes, and partial suspensions during this morning’s commute, causing travel disruptions for riders across Brooklyn, Manhattan, and other parts of the city.

Transit alerts throughout the morning showed service problems impacting multiple lines as crews worked to restore normal operations during the busy rush hour period. Many commuters faced longer travel times, crowded platforms, and changing train schedules while traveling to work and school.

Among the subway lines affected were the D and F trains, which are commonly used by many commuters in Boro Park, along with the G train serving Williamsburg and North Brooklyn. Additional train lines throughout the city were also impacted as the delays spread across parts of the MTA system.

The MTA advise riders to allow extra travel time and continue checking for updated service alerts as crews are working to fully stabilize service and restore regular train operations.

photos: Hillel Las"h

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A large fire broke out earlier, burning through a building on 14th Avenue and 40th Street, with flames continuing to burn as firefighters battled the blaze.

The FDNY transmitted a 10-75 for the fire at 4002 14th Avenue after flames broke out inside the three story building that housed various mechanical machines. Thick smoke and flames could be seen pouring out as fire crews rushed to get the situation under control.

The fire remained active and continued spreading through parts of the building as emergency crews operated on scene. The fire was then raised to a second alarm.

Hatzolah was on scene and treated one firefighter with serious injuries before transporting them to the hospital. 

Hazmat teams were also requested to the scene to investigate a reported suspicious substance found in the building.

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By Y.M. Lowy

New York City officials are warning residents to prepare for unusually hot weather beginning today, with temperatures expected to feel as high as 96 degrees in some parts of the city.

Mayor Zohran Mamdani announced that the city’s Heat Emergency Plan has officially been activated as the National Weather Service issued a heat advisory running until Wednesday evening.

Cooling centers will open across all five boroughs to help residents stay safe during the heat. Use air conditioning whenever possible, stay hydrated, avoid too much time outdoors during the hottest parts of the day, and check in on elderly relatives, neighbors, and others who may be more vulnerable.

The early season heat can be especially dangerous because many people are not yet used to these temperatures. Health officials warned that fans alone may not be enough during extreme heat and stressed the importance of finding cool indoor spaces.

The city is also dealing with poor air quality conditions, which could make breathing more difficult for people with asthma, allergies, or other respiratory conditions.

New Yorkers can find nearby cooling centers, including pet friendly and accessible locations, by calling 311 or using the city’s Cool Options Finder online.

There are moments when a community must stop and ask:  Whose voice represents us?

This June, Boro Park faces such a moment.

For decades, our neighborhood has been a center of Jewish life and Torah values. But today, much of Boro Park lies within one of the most liberal congressional districts in the country, a district that voted even further left in the last mayoral election than the district of Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez. That reality threatens to silence our community’s voice in Washington.

Congressman Dan Goldman has proven himself to be a proud Jew and a strong defender of heimishe Yidden at a time when standing by our people has never been harder. When the October 7th attacks shocked the world, when Jewish students across America were harassed, and when calls for justice for the Jewish people were ignored, Goldman was there.

When our family members were stuck aboard due to the war, Congressman Goldman helped many families return safely from Israel and responded to the needs of thousands in our community. His commitment to his Boro Park constituents goes beyond party lines.

Dan Goldman now faces a challenge from a candidate backed by the progressive anti-Israel movement. In his own words, his opponent has called for defunding Iron Dome, the system that protects our brothers and sisters in Israel from rocket attacks.

Let us speak plainly: this election has real consequences for our community.

Silence in the face of danger is complicity. This June, we must show up to the polls in strong numbers and make our voice heard.

A vote for Dan Goldman is a vote to protect our families, our community and our future.

A beautiful Maariv and Sefirah program featuring several chazzanim with lead Chazzan Yakov Yosef Shtark, accompanied by a live chior, led by the world renowned conductor Yossy Schwartz, took place at Beth-El in Boro Park. 

The event was produced in a partnership with Shea Freund and HeiligMuzikalish and dedicated by Mifal Midrash Yoel in honor of the completion of Sefer Ahavah in the daily Rambam shiurim by Hagaon Reb Yitzchok Lowy and Hagaon Reb Yoel Usher Labin

By Y.M. Lowy

New York City has stopped non-emergency road and construction work on several major Brooklyn roads as heavier traffic is expected during the Long Island Rail Road strike, as many commuters switch from trains to driving.

In Brooklyn, the temporary suspension affects Atlantic Avenue, North Conduit Avenue, South Conduit Avenue, and the Belt Parkway.

No new road or utility work permits will be issued on these roads for now. Construction crews already working in the area must secure their work sites and cover any road openings to avoid traffic problems. Any emergency repairs that come up will still be allowed.

Drivers should expect heavier traffic and possible delays throughout nearby areas while the LIRR strike continues.

By Y.M. Lowy

New York City will suspend alternate side parking regulations on several upcoming days to accommodate Shavous and other holidays.

Parking rules will be suspended on May 22 and 23 for Shavuos, on May 25 for Memorial Day, and again on May 27 and 28 for Eid Al-Adha.

While meter regulations may still remain in effect in some areas, street cleaning and other alternate side parking restrictions will not be enforced on these days.

Yisroel R.

Catskills Hatzalah held a meeting today with law enforcement agencies and local officials from across the Catskill region ahead of the upcoming summer season, as many families prepare for the annual relocation to the Catskills for the summer months.

The meeting focused on public safety, emergency response coordination, traffic concerns, and communication between agencies throughout the summer season.

Representatives from Hatzalah, police departments, emergency services, and local municipalities discussed cooperation during emergencies, roadway safety, and improving response efforts between agencies.

Officials reviewed plans aimed at helping emergency services and local agencies work together more efficiently during the summer months, when the region experiences a significant increase in seasonal residents and visitors.

photos: D. H. Kerem

By Y.M. Lowy

A stolen car incident ended with the suspect fleeing after crashing into several vehicles and attempting to escape on foot.

The vehicle was reportedly stolen on 4th Avenue in the 72nd Precinct. Another driver followed the suspect’s vehicle as it traveled through the area before the chase came to an end near Fort Hamilton Parkway and 37th Street, where the stolen car crashed into multiple parked cars.

Following the crash, the suspect jumped out of the vehicle and ran from the scene.

At the same time, Shomrim received a call reporting the accident and the driver fleeing the area, though it was not yet known that the vehicle involved had been stolen.

After reviewing nearby security camera footage, Shomrim volunteers spotted the suspect running into a nearby backyard area. Volunteers searched surrounding properties along with NYPD, but the suspect was not located.

The suspect remains at large, and the search is ongoing.

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By Y.M. Lowy

The NYPD is warning residents about a violent robbery pattern connected to multiple attacks across the area in recent weeks, including incidents involving guns, knives, a baseball bat, and severe assaults targeting victims late at night.

Police detectives have now linked several robberies that took place between late March and late April.

In one of the incidents, a 53-year-old man was jumped near 52nd Street and 9th Avenue on March 23 by three suspects who repeatedly punched him in the head before stealing his watch, cellphone, cash, and even his pants pockets containing about $4,000.

Another robbery happened shortly after midnight on April 9 inside a residential building lobby near 57th Street and 8th Avenue, where four suspects displayed a gun, knives, and a metal object while robbing four victims of cash, phones, watches, and debit cards.

A 53-year-old man was attacked near 43rd Street and 10th Avenue on April 22, when one suspect struck him in the back with a baseball bat while others stole his wallet.

In a separate incident on April 29, a 42-year-old woman was reportedly followed into a residential building near 52nd Street and 9th Avenue, where one of the suspects allegedly displayed a firearm and struck her in the face before stealing her purse, cash, and phones.

The NYPD has released surveillance images connected to the investigation and is asking anyone with information to call the NYPD's Crime Stoppers Hotline at 1-800-577-TIPS (8477).

By Y.M. Lowy

Ezra Medical Center has been selected as one of only 26 organizations nationwide to receive the 2026–2027 Access to Care Grant from the AAPD Foundation.

The grant, valued at up to $30,000, supports clinics and programs that provide children with essential preventive care and full service dental treatment.

Ezra is the only medical center within New York City’s five boroughs to receive this year’s award and one of only two organizations in New York State selected for the grant.

A major factor in the award was Ezra’s mobile dental unit, which brings dental care directly into communities where access to treatment is often limited. The program focuses on providing underserved children with comprehensive high-quality care in a more accessible and convenient manner.

Ezra Medical also expressed appreciation to Dr. Meryl Hersh, director of the organization’s mobile dental unit for leading the grant application process.

Yisroel R.

A serious multi-vehicle accident occurred at the intersection of 14th Avenue and 83rd Street last night, causing heavy damage to several vehicles.

The New York City Police Department arrested one of the drivers on charges of driving while intoxicated following the crash.

Emergency personnel responded to the scene following the collision. No information about injuries has been released at this time.

photos: Issac Y.

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By BoroPark24 Staff

A 44-year-old man was struck and killed by a northbound F train at the Avenue P station (near McDonald Avenue), according to authorities.

The victim was pronounced dead at the scene. Officials told BoroPark24 the man had not yet been identified pending family notification.

Police said the investigation remains ongoing, though no suspicious activity is suspected at this stage.

F train service in both directions was temporarily suspended following the incident.

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By BoroPark24 Staff

A 44-year-old man was struck and killed by a northbound F train at the Avenue P station (near McDonald Avenue), according to authorities.

The victim was pronounced dead at the scene. Officials told BoroPark24 the man had not yet been identified pending family notification.

Police said the investigation remains ongoing, though no suspicious activity is suspected at this stage.

F train service in both directions was temporarily suspended following the incident.

Photos: Dovid Jaroslawicz

photos: Achim Lanchevsky

Yisroel R.

As summer approaches and more New Yorkers prepare for vacations, road trips, and family travel, firearm owners are being reminded to review concealed carry and transport laws before traveling with a legal handgun.

In recent months, more and more heimishe yidden have applied for concealed carry permits amid continued security concerns and rising antisemitism. However, firearm attorneys and state guidance continue warning that many permit holders may not fully understand certain concealed carry and transport laws once they begin traveling outside their local area.

New York law prohibits concealed firearms in many sensitive locations, including schools, public transportation, government buildings, parks, libraries, and other restricted areas. Permit holders are being reminded to carefully review where concealed carry is legally permitted before traveling.

Another major area of confusion involves New York City. Firearm owners are being reminded that a New York State concealed carry permit does not automatically allow someone to carry a handgun in New York City unless they have the proper city authorization and licensing approval.

Crossing state lines create harsh legal complications as well. Firearm attorneys continue warning that every state has its own firearm laws and permit requirements, meaning a New York concealed carry permit does not automatically apply in neighboring states such as New Jersey.

Certain states, including New Jersey, have limited exceptions for people passing through the state with a firearm without a New Jersey permit, but strict transport rules still apply. The firearm must remain unloaded and locked away separately from ammunition inside a secure case or trunk while traveling. Every state has different laws, so people are urged to review each state before entering. Gun owners are also urged to understand local disclosure requirements and what they must tell police during a traffic stop depending on the laws of the state they are entering.

Firearm owners are also being reminded that New York law prohibits magazines capable of holding more than 10 rounds, even though larger magazines may be legal in other states. State guidance also requires firearms left unattended inside vehicles to be unloaded and secured inside a locked container hidden from view.

The broader message from firearm instructors and attorneys remains simple: concealed carry laws can vary significantly between New York State and neighboring states, and permit holders should carefully review local laws before traveling this summer to avoid serious criminal charges or misunderstandings during a traffic stop.

By BoroPark24 Staff

Multiple Shomrim volunteers were honored and presented with honorary certificates by the NYPD’s 79th Precinct and elected officials from the State Senate and Assembly, for their dedication and hard work that led to the apprehension of a gang ring that stole mail from multiple postal boxes across the neighborhood.

State Senators Andrew Gounardes and Stephen Chan, along with Assembly Member Lester Chang presented a certificate to the volunteers for their dedication to the community.

The NYPD 72nd Precinct Deputy Inspector and Community Council President honored the volunteers for their “devotion, dedication and hard work.”

As previously reported on BoroPark24, in the past few weeks Shomrim volunteers followed multiple suspects while committing the act, quickly alerted the NYPD and the perpetrators were arrested.

By Y.M. Lowy

Police are searching for a suspect following a gunpoint robbery at a store on Ditmas Avenue early Sunday morning.

The incident happened at around 1:18 a.m. on May 10 inside a store located at 422 Ditmas Avenue. The suspect entered the location and displayed a firearm to two female employees, ages 56 and 49. The suspect took $2 from the cash register along with a cellphone before fleeing the scene.

Then the man escaped on a scooter, heading northbound on East 5th Street toward an unknown location.

The suspect is described as a light complexioned male who was last seen wearing a black hooded sweatshirt, black pants, black sneakers, a black hat, and black gloves.

The NYPD is asking anyone with information to contact Crime Stoppers at 1-800-577-TIPS (8477).

photos: Issac Y.

By Y.M. Lowy

A judge has ruled in favor of the petitioners in the ongoing battle over the proposed takeover of Maimonides Medical Center by NYC Health + Hospitals, marking a major victory for many in Boro Park who have strongly opposed the plan.

The lawsuit was brought by Refuah Helpline together with Bobov, Belz, Satmar, and Bobov 45 mosdos after concerns were raised over the future of Maimonides under city control and the lack of public input in the process.

At the center of the case was whether the New York State Department of Health could approve the proposed merger without a full public hearing and formal review process. Refuah Helpline and all involved petitioners argued that state law requires public oversight before such a major transaction involving a community hospital can move forward.

Judge Hartman agreed, ruling that the Department of Health could not bypass the required approval process.

In the decision, the judge described the case as involving “an issue of significant public importance involving the provision of healthcare services,” referring to the proposed municipal takeover and operation of a private hospital.

The ruling now forces the merger proposal to go through a formal review by the Public Health and Health Planning Council, including examination of financial resources and public need. This ruling buys critical time.

In a second major ruling issued, the judge also denied efforts to keep the merger documents sealed from the public.

The court sharply criticized Maimonides’ attempt to keep the records private, writing that MMC was improperly using confidentiality as both a “sword and shield” by selectively releasing favorable information while attempting to seal the full agreement from public view.

Judge Hartman also warned that granting the request “would effectively shield from public view materials that inform governmental decision-making in an area of substantial public concern, thereby undermining transparency and public accountability.”

Unless narrower redactions are approved within the court’s deadline, the records connected to the proposed transaction could become public. The ruling not only delays the merger process, but also ensures the public will have a greater role in what happens next.

YS GOLD 

This week’s captured moment takes us to the center of Boro Park and to Flusberg’s Seforim Store. 

Now, this establishment was founded by Reb Bainish Flusberg, a pillar of Congregation Beth El who’s name and reputation was “gold.” The establishment was later taken over by the Szimanowitz family until it closed in the early 1990’s. 

Do any of our readers recall the location of this establishment? 

___ 

Answer to last week’s captured moment: 

As many of our readers have correctly identified, the Beis Hamedrash Hagodol existed where the “Infants Home of Boro Park” was once located, and where Mishkan continues to serve the developmentally-delayed in our community. The location is on 56th Street, between New Utrecht Avenue and 14th Avenue.

By Shevy

The BP24 Recipe Club Whatsapp Group is buzzing with creativity, as club members share everything from the best light side dish to Shabbos dips. The chat is filled with the sights and smells of home cooking—steaming soups, crispy sourdough, and lots and lots of schnitzel cutlets recipes for the kiddos.

Members joined in the Whisk It To Win It contest this month, where the challenge was to send in QUICK HEALTHY BREAKFASTS. As mentioned in the group, anyone submitting a clear recipe along with a clear photo earns a spot to be featured on the BoroPark24 website.

And the winner this month is…

Malka W! 

For entering the delicious St__rawberry PB Protein Smoothie recipe!

She takes home a full set of MON APPETIT SPICE SEASONINGS!

Make sure to follow us on Instagram for delicious recipe inspiration:

https://www.instagram.com/bp24recipeclub?igsh=MWIyeDAwZHhzcnpkYw==

By Y.M. Lowy

Following multiple accidents and countless near misses across Boro Park in recent weeks, BoroPark24 launched a public awareness campaign urging residents to stop, think, and stay alert before another tragedy, chas veshalom, occurs.

In a busy neighborhood filled with families, children, school busses, delivery vehicles, and constant movement, it only takes a moment for something serious to happen. Thankfully, many of these incidents end as near misses. But the number of close calls should be a warning to everyone before, chas veshalom, another tragedy occurs.

Street safety is not only the responsibility of drivers. Pedestrians, parents, bicyclists, scooter riders, and children all play a role in staying alert and careful.

• Parents must speak to their children about stopping before crossing, looking both ways, and never running into the street. Children often assume drivers see them - but on crowded blocks with limited visibility, that is not always the case.
• Drivers should slow down even when the street appears empty. In Boro Park, pedestrians can step into the roadway at any moment from between parked cars.
• Parents pushing strollers should never enter the street before checking carefully for traffic. Stop first, look both ways, and only then begin crossing.
• Children riding scooters or bicycles should be reminded to stay extra vigilant, especially at night when smaller riders are harder for drivers to see.

Boro Park streets are active from early morning until late at night. With a little more caution from everyone, accidents can be prevented to keep our neighborhood safer for all.

SPREAD THE AWARENESS - LET’S SAVE LIVES.

Dear neighbors:

Yesterday, a massive and chaotic protest took place in Flatbush, just minutes from Boro Park, outside a shul during an Israeli Real Estate event.

The pro-Palestinian demonstration was pre-planned - something that should never have been allowed to happen in the first place. Hearing crowds scream “Allahu Akbar” alongside slogans calling for violence and destruction against Jews should never, ever be tolerated in New York City, even when labeled “peaceful.” There is nothing peaceful about chants promoting hatred, intimidation, and fear.

But beyond condemning the protest itself, I want to address our own Jewish community.

What would have happened if hundreds of Yidden had not shown up to counterprotest? What if the streets had simply remained empty? What if those protesters had nobody to fight with and their demonstration was largely ignored? Would the night have ended with the same chaos?

We are living in golus, and we cannot forget that. Historically, our approach was never to show up at street confrontations or protests unless specifically guided by Gedolei Yisroel. Our strength and survival as a people did not come from counterprotests and street battles.

👉This in no way excuses or minimizes the disgusting protest that took place. Such demonstrations should not only be condemned in words, but stopped through proper legal and governmental action. But at the same time, we must honestly ask ourselves whether our response is the way to go.

We saw a similar situation in Boro Park months ago. In that case, only a relatively small number of protesters showed up, while hundreds of Yidden came to counterprotest. Is this truly our approach? Is this Daas Torah? Is this how Yidden in golus are meant to respond?

These are difficult questions, but perhaps they are questions worth thinking about.

Let this sink in.

Devorah T.

The opinions expressed here are the writer's and do not necessarily reflect the views of BoroPark24.

By BoroPark24 Staff

A major scam targeting SNAP recipients is reportedly sweeping through Boro Park, with hundreds - and possibly thousands - of families allegedly having their benefit cards emptied within minutes after receiving fraudulent phone calls from individuals posing as government representatives.

According to numerous local reports, scammers are calling residents claiming there is an issue with their SNAP or EBT account and asking victims to “verify” personal information, including their PIN numbers. Once the scammers obtain the PIN, the SNAP accounts are reportedly drained almost immediately, often before victims even realize what happened.

Residents say the stolen funds are then quickly spent at various stores, leaving families without critical food money and with little chance of recovering the stolen benefits.

The scam has reportedly impacted many local grocery stores, bakeries, and food establishments throughout Boro Park, with shocked victims discovering thousands of dollars missing from their accounts.

Residents should be extremely cautious and remember:

• The government will NEVER call asking for your PIN number.
• Never share your EBT or SNAP PIN with anyone over the phone.
• If you receive a suspicious call, hang up immediately.
• Change your PIN frequently and monitor your account activity closely.

Families who believe they were targeted are encouraged to immediately contact EBT customer service and report the fraud to authorities.

👉Residents are being asked to spread the warning quickly as concerns grow that more families could fall victim to the scam.

YS GOLD 

It is with deep regret that we inform you of the untimely petirah of Benny Shor, a born and bred Boro Parker, and longtime proprietor of Diamond Vision opticians. He was 59 years of age, and suffered from a terrible illness. 

The niftar was the son of, ybl"ch, Reb Pinchos Shor, a well-known personality in the community, a plumber by trade who devoted his life to helping Russian immigrants return to the Yiddishkeit that had been robbed from them in the Former Soviet Union. 

Benny was raised in the Karlin-Stoliner community, and always retained a close connection to the chassidus. 

An entrepreneur by nature, and he established Diamond Vision Opticals, an extremely reputable establishment which continues to operate on 48th Street in Boro Park, with an additional branch in Lakewood. Benny was known for his extreme honesty, always selling the customer what they truly needed, not what was easier, more profitable, or more convenient for him. He gained a sterling reputation in business and in his personal life for his ehrlichkeit and yiras Shomayim. 

For many years, Benny was a pillar of the Pozna Kehillah in Flatbush, and Rav Avrohom Eisen, Pozna Rov, recalled a man who always went out of his way for others and for the needs of the kehillah. "He was one of the founders of the Shul, and had a great zechus in bringing the kehillah to where it is today," recalled Rav Eisen. "He was a great person, and a truly refined individual who will be deeply mourned by all those who knew him." 

He suffered from a debilitating illness, and sadly passed away on Tuesday morning, plunging his family and many friends into mourning. 

The levaya will take place in Shomrei Hadas Chapels at 1:00 this afternoon.  

Yehi zichro baruch.

On Motzei Shabbos, Matzil’s Wilderness Unit conducted its annual overnight Wilderness Responder test under heavy fog and wet conditions — a demanding 12-hour exercise designed to prepare responders for real-world search and rescue operations.

The overnight serves as the culmination of six months of intensive training. Participants were put through a timed hike, shelter-in-place scenarios, written testing, and hands-on field evaluations across difficult terrain. Veteran members also took part to refresh critical rescue skills.

All nine candidates successfully completed the overnight and are now certified Wilderness Responders. With this new class, Matzil now has more than 65 nationally certified Search and Rescue (SAR) Technicians across its Wilderness, Water, and Mountain Rescue units — making it one of the region’s largest volunteer rescue organizations.

Yisroel R.

The MTA is facing growing pressure as tense labor negotiations continue with both Long Island Rail Road unions and subway and bus workers, raising concerns about possible disruptions across the transit system later this month.  

According to reports, Long Island Rail Road unions could legally go on strike as early as May 16 after negotiations over wage increases stalled following two rounds of federal mediation. The possible strike date also falls on the same day the MTA’s contract with nearly 40,000 subway and bus workers represented by the Transport Workers Union is set to expire.  

The MTA and LIRR unions have already agreed to a retroactive 9.5% wage increase over three years, but unions are pushing for a 5% raise beginning in 2026, while the MTA is offering 3%. MTA officials have warned that larger raises could increase financial pressure on the agency, which is already dealing with projected future budget deficits.  

TWU International President John Samuelsen described the negotiations as “two epic showdowns,” noting that whatever agreement is reached with the LIRR unions will likely influence negotiations with subway and bus workers.  

Governor Kathy Hochul has urged both sides to continue negotiating, warning that a strike would heavily impact commuters and workers alike. If a Long Island Rail Road strike were to happen, hundreds of thousands of daily riders could face major commuting disruptions.

photos: Avrumi Berger

A large emergency response unfolded Sunday afternoon at a home near the intersection of 17th Avenue and 55th Street after an emotionally disturbed individual barricaded himself inside the residence, prompting a heavy NYPD presence in the area.

Initial reports of a possible hostage situation drew a significant response from NYPD, FDNY, and EMS units, however authorities later determined there were no hostages involved. After tense moments at the scene, officers safely removed the individual from the home without incident or injuries.

Following the removal of the barricaded individual, NYPD conducted a precautionary search inside the residence and discovered a suspicious package. Out of an abundance of caution, the NYPD Bomb Squad was requested to the scene to conduct a thorough investigation of the item.

By Y.M. Lowy

As temperatures start climbing across New York City, mosquito season is quickly settling in with the familiar buzzing and itchy bites many residents know too well.

A new study from Terminix, a nationwide pest control company that tracks service data across the country, ranks New York City as the worst city in the U.S. for mosquitoes in 2025. The ranking is based on actual service calls and activity reported by its local branches.

Warm weather, high humidity, and standing water create the perfect conditions for mosquitoes to breed. New York State as a whole also ranked eighth nationwide.

Health officials continue to monitor the situation closely. The New York City Department of Health carries out routine spraying across the boroughs each year to reduce the risk of West Nile virus. In 2025 alone, over 1,000 mosquito samples in the city tested positive for the virus.

West Nile virus spreads through infected mosquito bites. Most cases are mild, but symptoms can include fever, headaches, body aches, fatigue, and in some cases stomach issues or rash.

Mosquito season in New York City typically runs from April 1 through October 31, meaning this is just the beginning of what could be a long and uncomfortable stretch.

photo: Shutterstock

YS GOLD 

We regret to inform you of the passing of Reb Tzvi (Hershel) Melzer, the eldest Bobover chossid in the world, and a role model to scores of chassidim. He was 104, and with his passing, the Bobover chassidus has lost the last of its centenarians. 

The niftar was born in the town of Kshanov, to a family of Radomsker chassidim. After he endured the horrors of the war, in which he lost most of his family, he connected with the Bobover Rov, and remained within the chassidus for the ensuing eight decades. 

He raised a beautiful Torah family, and leaves behind a legacy of chassidus and yiras Shomayim. 

The levaya took place at the Bobover shul this morning, and kevurah will be in the Bobover beis hachaim in Deans, New Jersey. 

Yehi zichro baruch.

Gallery includes: Rachmastrivka, Hagoen Reb Binyamin Eisenberger, Zidichoiv Beer Sheva, Boyan America Rav, Bluzhev Ribatitch, Faltishan, Loyev Chernobile, Linz, Liska, Semihei.

photos: Avrumi Berger.

By Y.M. Lowy

Monday will be cooler with a high of 60 and a low of 47. Expect cloudy skies, breezy conditions, rain in the morning, and a few more showers later in the day.

Tuesday will be brighter with a high of 62 and a low of 50. Mostly sunny skies and a light breeze should make for a more comfortable day.

Wednesday will be mostly cloudy with a high of 59 and a low of 52. A little rain is possible in the morning, with a few more showers later on.

Thursday will be a bit milder with a high of 62 and a low of 51. Clouds stick around, though conditions look calmer overall.

By BoroPark24 Staff

Looking to find a Sunday carnival or food sale happening near you today?

Check out this post for a full list of locations and join the fun in the neighborhood!

Visit, enjoy 😋🍟🍩🧃, and send us some photos! 📸🎉

By Y.M. Lowy

Boro Parkers looking for a unique summer outing may want to head toward the Brooklyn waterfront this July, as dozens of international tall ships and naval vessels are set to sail beneath the Verrazzano-Narrows Bridge as part of the nationwide Sail4th celebration marking America’s 250th anniversary.

The massive event will bring ships from 46 countries into New York Harbor in one of the largest international maritime gatherings in decades.

The tall ship parade, expected to be the main attraction for Brooklyn residents, is scheduled to begin around 9:30 a.m. as ships pass under the Verrazzano Bridge and continue north through the harbor. The procession could take more than two hours to fully pass a single viewing area.

An aerial demonstration by the Blue Angels is also expected around 10:15 a.m.

Following the parade, several ships are expected to dock throughout the city and open for free public tours, giving visitors a chance to step aboard vessels from around the world.

Preparations for the event began years ago and involved coordination between dozens of countries, naval officials, and local, state, and federal agencies. Similar harbor celebrations have only taken place a handful of times in modern history, including during the 1976 Bicentennial and the 2000 OpSail celebration.

For Brooklyn residents, the event is expected to offer a rare chance to experience a major international celebration just minutes away from home.

The heroic she’eris hapleitah who rebuilt from the ashes in Boro Park of yore were possessed of unique qualities that enabled them to erect countless Torah institutions atop the ashes of the world they had once known. 

For the Gerer chassidus in Boro Park, the name of Reb Akiva Zilberberg—a scion of a prominent rabbinic family with deep roots in Ger— is synonymous with rebuilding and transplanting that lost world to the streets of Boro Park where they continue to thrive to this day. 

Warsaw

Reb Akiva was born in Warsaw to his father, Rav Avrohom Binyomin Zilberberg, a great ga’on and talmid chochom, in the year 1925. 

The family was prominent in the Gerer chassidus, and Reb Akiva would carry this identity with pride for all his life—a pride that would express itself in the incredible efforts that he would expend on behalf of the chassidus on another continent, America. 

Rav Avrohom Binyomin heeded the exhortation of his rebbe, the Imrei Emes of Ger, to leave Europe in advance of what was to come. He brought his family to America in the year 1938, around the time of Akiva’s bar mitzvah. 

Making His Way in the World 

He began a rabbinic career as a Rov in the small town of Biddeford, Maine. But following the conclusion of WWII, he changed course, returning to Pittsburgh to try his hand at construction and land development. 

He would find success in this endeavor, but his true love remained Torah. Visitors to his office recalled that there were always open seforim before him on his desk.

For years, he kept a weekly learning session with his father, the Pittsburger Rov. His business associates came to appreciate the fact that, no matter what, he would fly back to Pittsburgh to keep this seder with his father. 

Building Torah 

Reb Akiva did not suffice with the love of his own Torah, he dedicated himself to establishing Yeshiva Yagdil Torah for the Gerer chassidus (for decades, the yeshiva served as a home for many families from outside the chassidus as well), and the story of its establishment goes as follows. 

It was during one of his trips to Eretz Yisroel to visit with his rebbe, the Beis Yisroel of Ger, when the two got into a discussion about the development of the Gerer chassidus in North America. The Rebbe noted that “we have no yeshiva there.” 

Reb Akiva immediately asked, “does the Rebbe wish for a yeshiva to be established?” And while the rebbe did not directly answer him, the devoted chossid understood. 

The family recalls that on the seventh day of Pesach, Reb Akiva declared that there would be a cheder, and by the following fall, the yeshiva opened in Boro Park with ten students. 

The dedication that Reb Akiva had to the cause of building Torah in Boro Park cannot be overstated. He would regularly visit the yeshiva, and take an active role in the decision-making. He would make appeals—often accompanied by his friend and confidante Reb Michoel Tennenbaum—at Shtieblach around Boro Park, all for the cause of furthering the cause of Torah. 

He was involved in gashmiyus as well as in the ruchniyus of the yeshiva. He was the one to hire the first melamed in the yeshiva, and was involved in the curriculum, ensuring that it met the highest standards. 

When it came time for Yagdil Torah to purchase its own building, Reb Akiva took a leading role in the renovation project, ensuring that the new yeshiva would have only the best.  

For the consummate builder that Reb Akiva was, there was only one way to proceed following the successful establishment of the cheder Yagdil Torah: upward. 

Once the need for a high school mesivta became apparent, Reb Akiva was at the forefront of building the Gerrer mesivta which continues to stand tall in Boro Park until this very day. The mossad has been led by great men such as Rav Moshe Rottenberg as well as Rav Dovid Olewski, zt”l. 

With deftness and with wisdom, with passion and with love, Reb Akiva Zilberberg built Torah in Boro Park and the fruits of his labor only continue to be seen and felt to this very day. 

photos: Hillel Las"h, Shloimy Schwartz

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By BoroPark24 Staff

Three separate pedestrian-involved collisions were reported within approximately one hour Friday morning across Boro Park, raising renewed concerns about traffic safety in the neighborhood.

One of the incidents occurred on 15th Ave between 37th and 38th Streets, where a pedestrian was struck by a vehicle and suffered serious injuries. Multiple Hatzolah units responded, while NYPD officers shut down the area to conduct an investigation. Traffic quickly backed up in the surrounding streets as emergency crews worked at the scene.

 The street remains closed as the NYPD Highway Investigation Unit continues to investigate the circumstances surrounding the crash.

Please say Tehilem for Yakov Tzvi Elimelech ben Chana Yitel

The other two pedestrian strikes reported this morning occurred at separate locations in Boro Park. The conditions of those victims were not immediately available.

YS GOLD 

We regret to inform you of the passing of Reb Shaya Hershkowitz, a humble giant who is described as "a selfless individual who did not live for himself but for the Ribbono shel Olam." He was 89 years of age and lived a life of chessed. 

Reb Shaya was a legend in the Sfardishe Shul in Boro Park, and one of the heads of the Chevra Kaddisha of Bikur Cholim of Boro Park. In these capacities, he gave himself away for Yidden with his whole heart, devoting his days and nights to chessed. 

"He would run in middle of the night for chevra kaddisha calls," remembers one admirer. "He was one of the first in Shul every morning, beginning his day in the wee hours of the morning with shiurei Torah, many of which he helped organize." 

He was also in charge of the Sfardishe Shul's gemach, and helped organize many aspects of the shul's functioning with valiant devotion. 

He will be remembered for many years to come as a legend of chessed who devoted his life to Hashem and to his fellow Yidden. 

The levaya will take place this morning at 10:30 at Shomrei Hadas. To watch it live, click here.

Yehi zichro baruch.

By Y.M. Lowy

In the latest issue of Dee Voch, readers will find the first part of extensive Lag BaOmer photo coverage from around the world. Also featured is coverage of the historic Shabbos led by the Belzer Rebbe for supporters helping build new buildings for Belz mosdos in Eretz Yisroel. The magazine also follows the Toldos Tzvi Spinka Rebbe during his visit to kivrei tzaddikim in Europe; a dinner for Kollel Shomrei Hachomos in Williamsburg; the bar mitzvah celebration for a grandson of the Pshevorsk Rebbe; and the visit of the Makova Rebbe to New York.

In the Shrift, readers will find a timely feature on the growing challenges facing many heimishe neighborhoods, as investors continue buying properties and driving up prices. The article looks at how these changes are affecting communities, why some areas have reached a breaking point, and whether anything can still be done to protect the future of our neighborhoods.

In this week’s Business Shrift, readers are given an inside look at the story behind the renowned Lilac and Crème brand, as R’ Dovid Friedman shares how the company built a reputation for its beautifully crafted cheesecakes, now delivered to customers across the country year-round.

The women’s Fink magazine brings readers a rich mix of heartfelt stories, thoughtful inspiration, practical topics, and meaningful perspectives for women.

The Kinder Shrift is packed with engaging stories, educational features, fun activities, and exciting content that keeps children entertained while giving them something valuable to learn.

Get your copy at grocery stores and local retailers, or subscribe via WhatsApp or the website!

This past Tuesday, 13th Avenue in Boro Park was transformed into a powerful display of Yiddishe pride as thousands of children gathered for the Lag BaOmer Parade and Kinus celebrating the Hilula of Rebbi Shimon Bar Yochai. With the streets filled with the voices of tinokos shel beis rabban, the event was a tremendous Kiddush Hashem and a moving demonstration of achdus, bringing together the entire community for a day centered around Torah, Tefillah, Tzedakah, and the joy of being part of Klal Yisroel.

The program featured an exciting and uplifting lineup that captivated children and adults alike. Highlights included a beautiful musical performance by Hershy Weinberger together with the Yingerlich Choir, accompanied by Avrumi Berko, an epic show by the Direnfeld Brothers, a dramatic live play performance, and a stunning sand art storytelling presentation. What was truly remarkable was how throughout the program, inspiring messages were woven into the entertainment, giving the children an experience that was not only memorable and exciting, but meaningful and spiritually uplifting.

The Kinus marked the largest gathering of Yiddishe kinder of its kind to date, showcasing the incredible strength, unity, and pride of the Boro Park community. Thousands of children joined together in song, tefillah, and celebration, creating a scene that will be remembered long after Lag BaOmer. 

There is still an opportunity to take part in this remarkable Kiddush Hashem and benefit from the tremendous Zechus of supporting an event that inspired thousands of precious Yiddishe children.

Link to donate: 

https://secure.givelively.org/donate/tzivos-hashem-bp/lag-baomer-parade

By BoroPark24 Staff

The Glass family, owners of several ShopRite supermarkets throughout New York and New Jersey, are in contract to purchase the property housing the Boro Park ShopRite at 1080 McDonald Avenue, including the shopping center, parking lot, and adjacent retail and office space.

First reported by PincusCo, the property is being sold by the Leser Group for approximately $41 million. The Leser Group has owned the site for more than 40 years, having purchased it in 1985.

According to the report, the deal is expected to close by June 30, 2026. The Glass family already operates the ShopRite location through Glass Gardens Inc., which owns multiple ShopRite stores across the region.

photo: Google Earth

Yisroel R.

A pedestrian was seriously injured Wednesday night after being struck along 8th Avenue.

The incident happened shortly before 9 p.m. near the area of 43rd Street and 44th Street. Emergency crews responded to the scene as police temporarily blocked part of 8th Avenue during the investigation.

Officials said the victim was transported to Maimonides Medical Center with serious injuries.

Investigators have not yet released details on what type of vehicle struck the pedestrian or what led up to the crash. The victim’s identity and current condition have also not been released.

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Dry conditions are expected to continue across New York City in the coming months, according to the Climate Prediction Center.

Latest forecasts show below-average rainfall through at least the end of July, raising concerns as the region heads into the typically warmer and drier summer season.

So far this year, rainfall levels in the city have already fallen behind. As of May 5, Central Park is nearly 4.5 inches below average for 2026. Nearby, LaGuardia Airport has recorded just over 4 inches below normal levels, while Newark Liberty International Airport is down by just under 3.75 inches.

Meteorologists say a combination of warmer temperatures, stronger sun, and a lack of storm activity is expected to make conditions drier across the region.

The spring months, especially April and May, usually bring a large share of the area’s yearly rainfall. With that pattern falling short this year, the dry trend is expected to continue into early summer.

photos: Ari Kuperstick

A major development took place this past Thursday, as Apple Bank officially signed a heter iska with KFI, allowing the bank to operate in a way that meets all the halachic standards for its frum customers.

The agreement was completed under the guidance of Harav Yechiel Michel Steinmetz shlit”a, Dayan of Skver in Boro Park.

Top executives from Apple Bank, including senior leadership, attended the signing at the dayan’s home. Bank officials made clear they are committed to accommodating the needs of their observant clients and ensuring their services are structured properly.

After the signing, the bank’s leadership received a formal certification. With Apple Bank operating hundreds of branches, including in many heimishe neighborhoods, the move is expected to have a wide impact for the frum community.

The atmosphere at the recent "Well Connected" event, presented by Makdim, reached a crescendo of energy at the Ezra Medical Center booth. 

In a powerful display of community engagement, well over a 1,000 women visited the station, transforming the space into a bustling hub of education and empowerment.

The booth was anchored by the expertise of NP Darleen, NP Baila Wachsman, and Leah Klein OTR, director of Pelvic Floor Therapy, alongside a dedicated team of managers and administrative staff. 

These practitioners, known for their comprehensive care—especially in women’s wellness—engaged with attendees spanning all ages and stages of life. 

The high volume of interactions underscores a significant shift in the local landscape: a collective awakening to the importance of proactive health management.

The impact of the event was immediate and measurable. Beyond the initial conversations, countless women took the decisive step of booking well-visits for the coming weeks, prioritizing their long-term wellness. 

This overwhelming turnout serves as a testament to the community’s growing commitment to health and the trusted role Ezra Medical Center plays in facilitating that journey. 

By bridging the gap between expert medical advice and the women who need it, the event highlighted a bright future for communal well-being.

Even if you’re not in Meron you can still connect to Reb Shimon

The gates are open

Support Kollel Kabbalah B’Chatzos

Mekubalim say Tikkun Chatzos nightly and daven for parnassah, hatzlachah, shidduchim and health

kollelkabbalahchatzos.com

718.766.5022

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YS GOLD 

The Liska Shul, an outpost of Torah and chassidus in Boro Park for eighty years, is in the process of being demolished to make room for a beautiful new edifice. In the course of this work, beautiful murals hearkening back to the founding of the shul were discovered. 

Ezra Friedlander, the son of the current Liska Rebbe recalls that while these murals predate his time--he was a young boy when they were covered over with "modern" paneling--he had heard about them throughout the years from older members of the shul. .

"When my grandfather, Rav Yoizef of Liska, zt"l, moved into Boro Park in 1947, he employed the services of a wall artist to paint these murals on the walls throughout the shul," he related. 

The Rebbe served as a spiritual leader and figure in the Boro Park community for twenty-five years, until his passing in 1971, leaving behind a legacy of Torah and chassidus and mesirus nefesh. 

The Shabbos prior to the Rebbe's passing, the shul made an appeal to update the building with "modern" paneling, and it was installed weeks later, obscuring this piece of the shul's history for decades - until this week, when they were once again revealed. 

While these historic murals will likely not be preserved, and the new shul will likely be far more modern, the discovery this week brought back the memory of a far different time in Boro Park - the days when the foundation for this outpost of Torah and chassidus were implanted into the very fabric of the community to stand for decades to come.

As reported, the kehillah relocated to a temporary location, at 1430-50th Street, where tefillos and learning continue uninterrupted until construction is complete.

Yisroel R.

More than 32,000 cyclists rode through New York City on Sunday as part of the annual TD Five Boro Bike Tour, a 40-mile ride across parts of all five boroughs.

Mayor Zohran Mamdani also took part in the event, becoming the first sitting mayor to complete the full bike tour across all five boroughs. He said he was excited to join the ride and be part of the event.

The tour, considered the largest charitable bike ride in the country, supports year-round bike education programs and draws participants of all ages and skill levels.

The event led to widespread street and highway closures throughout the city on Sunday, which brought heavy traffic to the streets, as cyclists made their way through the five boroughs.

YS GOLD

In what has become an annual tradition in Boro Park, close to fifty kehillos will be celebrating the hillula of Rashbi on Monday evening with a massive bonfire. 

Community Board 12 has been working for months to ensure that these events will go smoothly, in coordination with the FDNY, city permitting agencies, and the NYPD, which will be closing off numerous streets around the bonfire sites.  

CB12 has released a map of the road closures and partial road closures in advance of Lag Baomer, and drivers are urged to be mindful of traffic changes around Boro Park. 

As we have reported, the partial road closures are for crucial emergency routes, enabling Hatzolah and other emergency agencies to pass through the area around the celebrations. 

As Boro Park prepares to celebrate the great hillula once again, it will be with a kiddush Hashem and adherence to local laws and regulations, in large part due to the efforts of Community Board 12.

By BoroPark24 Staff

Boro Park was shaken by a series of overnight incidents, including a shooting and a vehicle break-in, both ending in arrests due to the swift response of Shmira volunteers and the NYPD.

At approximately 6:30 a.m., shots rang out on 53rd Street and 8th Avenue when a suspect discharged a firearm into the air. No injuries were reported in this incident. Shmira members responded quickly after being contacted by the NYPD to assist in a canvass of the area. After an hour-and-a-half search, the suspect was successfully located and arrested on 8th Avenue and 57th Street. The firearm was also recovered nearby.

Just hours earlier, around 2:45 a.m., a vandal smashed a car window on 50th Street between 9th and 10th Avenues, gaining access to the vehicle and stealing valuables. Shmira volunteers on patrol, together with their surveillance team, observed the incident and maintained visual contact with the fleeing suspect until NYPD officers arrived. The suspect was taken into custody at 47th Street and 9th Avenue.

These events follow two recent shootings in the area. Just last week, early Monday morning on 58th Street and 9th Avenue, a suspect shot and critically wounded a person during an armed robbery. That investigation remains ongoing, with Shmira assisting the NYPD 66th Precinct Detective Squad. In a separate incident late Friday night, a suspect discharged a firearm into the air at 40th Street and New Utrecht Avenue. No injuries were reported in that case, and the investigation is still ongoing.

Thankfully, both of this morning’s incidents were brought under control quickly and resulted in arrests before the situations could escalate further. Authorities hope these arrests send a clear message that Boro Park will not tolerate such dangerous behavior, and those responsible will face the consequences.

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Tzfat. Its cobblestone alleys where kabbala was transmitted, open vistas where Lecha Dodi was born, mountain air that carries something you feel even if you can’t grasp it. For the first time, you can live it, in a home that elevates your experience.

Four buildings now stand tall at the top of the mountain, right at the entrance to Tzfat's Old City. Stone cladding is on. Flooring is already laid. Tzfat Estates — part of the Estates Series that produced Jerusalem Estates at the Schneller compound — is scheduled for occupancy by mid-2027.

VIEWS LIVE INSIDE 

This isn't a building that happens to be in Tzfat. It's a building that was designed to make you feel where you are, every moment of the day. Walk through the shared spaces and you'll notice something unusual: the Galilee mountains don't stay outside.

Feigin Architects — the firm behind the Waldorf Astoria Jerusalem, the Beresheet Hotel, and Jerusalem Estates — designed every public space around floor-to-ceiling plate glass. The pool looks out at Har Meron. The shul fills with natural light while the mountain range stretches beyond the windows. The gym opens onto panoramic views of the Galilee. The lobby is stone and glass, ancient texture meeting clean modern lines.

The architecture dissolves the wall between the building and the landscape. You're swimming, and Meron is right there. You're davening Shacharis, and the mountains are with you. You're on the treadmill at six in the morning, and the sunrise over the Galilee is yours.

Interior designer Sari Gurstein planned complete apartments with smart electrical systems, climate control throughout, and detailed luxury finishings. Buyers chose between three distinct design styles — Tzfati, Modern, and Classic — each reflecting a different relationship between Tzfat's historic character and contemporary living.

36 PROJECTS. 12 CITIES. 1 EXACTING STANDARD.

ISA has been building across Israel for close to three decades. Their track record speaks plainly. ISA delivers on their promises. And when they finish building, it always looks better than the renderings they sold you.

Tzfat Estates is part of ISA's Estates Series, debuted by the acclaimed Jerusalem Estates project in the Schneller compound. Jerusalem Estates established what ISA could do at the highest level — Feigin architecture, meticulous execution, a residential experience built to designer international standards in a city that demands it. Tzfat Estates carries that same DNA north.

YOUR CHANCE

Over 93% of Tzfat Estates has been purchased. The final apartments are selling now. These are the premium units — four spacious bedrooms with terraces stretching 430 square feet. Real outdoor living space: room for a sukkah, a full dining setup, lounge seating, and a grill, with the mountain air and Old City atmosphere surrounding you. Starting at 4.69 million shekels.

Your Tzfat is here. And if you’re coming to Meron on Lag Baomer, drive 10 minutes and come tour the site yourself. 

Get details, floor plans, or schedule a visit:
Call: 1-646-328-7711 or tzfatestates.com.

By Y.M. Lowy

Monday will be mild with a high of 69 and a low of 55 degrees. Expect periods of sunshine mixed with some clouds throughout the day.

Tuesday will warm up nicely with a high of 76 and a low of 57 degrees. It will be sunny and pleasant, though winds will pick up as the day goes on.

Wednesday will cool down with a high of 67 and a low of 53 degrees. It will be rather cloudy, breezy, and not as warm, with a couple of passing showers.

Thursday will be cooler with a high of 61 and a low of 45 degrees. Expect cloudy skies along with rain and a chance of thunderstorms.

By BoroPark24 Staff

Looking to find a Sunday carnival or food sale happening near you today?

Check out the BoroPark24 WEBSITE STATUS for a full list of locations and join the fun in the neighborhood!

Visit, enjoy 😋🍟🍩🧃, and send us some photos! 📸🎉

By BoroPark24 Staff

The MTA is advising motorists to prepare for significant travel disruptions today as closures and detours take effect on major crossings, including the Verrazzano-Narrows Bridge and the Hugh L. Carey (Battery) Tunnel, in connection with the Five Boro Bike Tour. 

According to officials, the Staten Island–bound lower level of the Verrazzano Bridge will be closed from 12:01 a.m. until 7:00 p.m., while the upper level will remain open in both directions. Several ramps and exits connected to the bridge will also be shut through the day, further impacting traffic flow. 

At the Hugh L. Carey Tunnel, commonly known as the Battery Tunnel, key exits will be closed for hours at a time, including the westbound Gowanus/BQE exit in Brooklyn and the Trinity Place exit in Manhattan, with traffic being diverted to alternate routes. 

With more than 30,000 cyclists expected to participate, officials are urging drivers to expect delays, allow for extra travel time, or use alternate routes, while encouraging the public to rely on mass transit where possible.

photos: Avrumi Berger

By BoroPark24 Staff

As Sunday neighborhood carnivals and food sales begin popping up around Boro Park BoroPark24 is offering to help young organizers spread the word.

Children hosting block events, whether a carnival, lemonade stand, or food sale, are invited to share their invite posters with BoroPark24 for free promotion. Submissions are welcome in all forms, including handwritten signs or simple computer-made designs.

The initiative aims to encourage creativity and community spirit while giving these grassroots events greater visibility. Families can swipe up to submit their posters and help bring more neighbors out to join the fun.

Email the poster to: [email protected]

By BoroPark24 Staff

As Sunday carnivals and food sales start to pop up around Boro Park, as the weather warms up and the days grow longer, BoroPark24 is offering to help young organizers spread the word.

Children who are hosting block events, whether it’s a carnival, lemonade stand, or food sale, are invited to share their invite posters with BoroPark24 for free promotion. Submissions are welcome in all forms, including handwritten signs or simple posters created on Word.

The initiative aims to encourage creativity and community spirit while giving these grassroots events greater visibility. Families can swipe up to submit their posters and help bring more neighbors out to support the fun.

Email [email protected]

By Y.M. Lowy

Earlier today, BoroPark24 reported that many Brooklyn residents are still unclear about the city’s composting rules. For many in Boro Park especially, keeping up with constant updates isn’t always simple, particularly for those who are not on social media.

In response to that article, the New York City Department of Sanitation reached out directly to make sure residents have all the information they need in one place.

They also noted that outreach hasn’t been limited to online updates. Efforts have included community board meetings, mailers, and even door-to-door engagement in neighborhoods like Boro Park over the past few years.

So what do residents actually need to know?

Place all food and yard waste into a bin with a secure lid and set it out on your recycling day. The bin can be lined with a paper bag, compostable bag, clear plastic bag—or not lined at all.

Beyond that basic rule, here’s a clearer breakdown of what belongs in compost:

Food scraps of all kinds are accepted, including meat, bones, and dairy. Prepared and cooked foods can go in as well. Yard waste such as leaves and branches is included, along with food-soiled paper like greasy pizza boxes and uncoated paper plates. Certified compostable products are also allowed.

There are some important exceptions. Items like wrappers, pet waste, diapers, medical waste, foam, and hygiene products should still go in regular trash.

As for bins, they must be 55 gallons or smaller and have a secure lid. Residents can use any bin that fits those guidelines, as long as it’s clearly labeled as compost so sanitation workers can identify it. For extra yard waste, paper lawn bags or clear plastic bags can be used, and branches can be tied together and placed alongside bins.

Collected material is processed into compost used in parks and gardens, or converted into renewable energy that helps power homes and businesses.

Composting is meant to be just as routine as recycling paper, glass, and plastic—something New Yorkers have already been doing for years.

As always, BoroPark24 will continue passing along updates as they come in, making sure the community stays informed.

By Y.M. Lowy

As Lag BaOmer approaches, with bonfires planned across Boro Park, Hatzolah is issuing an important message to event organizers.

In recent years, the number of hadlakos has grown, with many streets being closed off to accommodate the celebrations. While these events are meaningful and widely attended, the road closures have caused significant traffic throughout Boro Park.

These conditions can make it difficult for volunteers to respond quickly to emergency calls. In past years, blocked streets on Lag BaOmer night have created challenges for emergency responders trying to reach those in need.

Hatzolah is asking organizers to carefully consider whether full street closures are truly necessary and to avoid blocking roads whenever possible.

Hatzolah is urging the community to work together to keep roads as accessible as possible, helping ensure that emergency crews can respond without delay and continue providing critical, life-saving care.

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Every week, Erev Shabbos Kodesh arrives with the same pressure. The clock is ticking, the kitchen is in full motion, and there are still countless details to finish. In the middle of it all, something as simple as water becomes another task, filling the urn, waiting for it to heat, and hoping everything will be ready on time, while cold water runs out just when everyone needs it most.

It’s one more stress added to an already busy day, but it doesn’t have to be this way.

A Better Erev Shabbos

Imagine a different kind of Friday, where there’s no rushing to set up the urn, no last-minute refills, and no guessing if everything will be ready in time. With the Noam Water Machine, your water is already taken care of before Shabbos begins. Hot water is ready instantly, cold water is always available, and everything is prepared without effort, allowing you to move through Erev Shabbos with less pressure and more calm.

Built for Shabbos Living

Noam was designed specifically for the Jewish home, with trusted CRC and OU certification, giving you confidence that it meets halachic standards. There is no setup to manage and no last-minute adjustments to remember, just reliable, Shabbos-ready water exactly when you need it.

Safe for the Whole Family

At the same time, Noam keeps safety in mind. With a built-in child safety lock for hot water, you can feel confident knowing your home is safe for kids, while still enjoying instant hot water whenever you need it.

From Pressure to Peace

Erev Shabbos is meant to be a transition into something calmer and more meaningful, but the small stresses of preparation often get in the way. When water is no longer something you need to think about, everything else becomes easier, with no running back and forth, no dealing with heavy bottles, and no waiting for systems to catch up.

All Week Convenience

Beyond Shabbos, Noam continues to make everyday life easier by providing fresh, filtered water on demand throughout the week. Whether it’s for coffee, cooking, or staying hydrated, everything is available instantly, without deliveries, storage, or unnecessary hassle.

Why Families Are Switching

Families are choosing Noam because it removes the daily frustrations that come with water. There’s no more lifting heavy bottles, no more running out before Shabbos, no more waiting for water to heat or cool, and no more stress around preparation. Instead, you get simple, reliable convenience that fits naturally into your routine.

Noam. On tap 24/7.

Right now, Noam Water is offering a special offer.

Click here to order now and enjoy the convenience of fresh filtered water- exactly when you need it most.

By Shevy

The BP24 Recipe Club WhatsApp group has become a steady source of real kitchen inspiration for Boro Park women with ideas, tips, and recipes shared.

Building on the group’s success, the BP24 Recipe Club team is now creating its own original recipes— developed and brought to life in a new format designed for busy moms.

The launch of the BP24 Recipe Club Instagram page introduces easy-to-follow recipe videos that you can actually recreate at home. 

Whether you’ve been part of the WhatsApp group or are just discovering it now, this is an opportunity to tap into a growing circle of women who care about good food, shared ideas, and making cooking feel a little more enjoyable.

Make sure to follow us on Instagram for delicious recipe inspiration:

https://www.instagram.com/bp24recipeclub?igsh=MWIyeDAwZHhzcnpkYw==

Watch it. Cook it. Love it!

YS GOLD 

The Burshtiner kehillah in Boro Park turns fifty years old this year--marking half a century of incredible contributions to the spiritual character of the Boro Park community. 

In honor of this milestone, as well as the occasion of a number of weddings in the Rebbe's family following Shavuos, the Rebbe will journey to mekomos hakedoshim in Eastern Europe to visit the resting places of the holy tzaddikim of yore and daven for the continued success of his burgeoning kehillah. 

The Rebbe will depart for Europe the day after Lag BaOmer, and the highlight of the trip will be an elevated Shabbos in the town of Sanz, adjacent to the tziyun of the holy Sanzer Rov, davening in the historic shul where the Divrei Chaim conducted his great avodas hakodesh. 

Other highlights will include visits to the tziyunim of Koznitz, Lublin, Lanzhut, Lizensk, Krakow, and others. As noted, Shabbos Parashas Behar Bechukosai will be spent in Sanz, and the Rebbe will return home Sunday evening.

Yisroel R.

New York City’s curbside garage composting program is once again being enforced with fines, as sanitation officials have issued more than 1,500 tickets to Brooklyn residents since enforcement resumed in March. The renewed push comes after the program was briefly rolled out in April 2025 before penalties were paused just weeks later under then-Mayor Eric Adams.

At the time, the Adams administration said the pause was necessary to allow for more public education and outreach, acknowledging that many residents were not yet familiar with how composting works. Despite that effort, confusion appears to remain widespread, with many Brooklyn residents saying they still do not fully understand the rules or requirements.

Now, under Mayor Zohran Mamdani, enforcement has returned, with the New York City Department of Sanitation stepping up ticketing for households that fail to separate compostable waste. The agency says curbside composting is mandatory and includes items such as food scraps, yard waste, and even certain materials like meat and dairy products.

The program also requires that compost be placed in bins with secured lids, typically no larger than 55 gallons, in line with sanitation guidelines. However, critics argue that the city has moved too quickly into enforcement without ensuring that residents are properly informed.

“People can’t even afford to live now, and you’re punishing them for garbage,” said Michael, a Canarsie resident, reflecting frustration from some communities hit with fines.

City officials maintain that the program is essential for reducing landfill waste and improving environmental sustainability across the five boroughs. Still, the return of fines under Mayor Mamdani is already drawing criticism from residents who say education efforts have fallen short, raising questions about whether enforcement is getting ahead of public understanding.

Multiple high-ranking NYPD officials visited Boro Park yesterday, with a strong visible presence throughout the area, including a stop at Hatzolah headquarters.

During the visit, officials held a meeting with community leaders and Hatzolah members to discuss various security-related topics and coordination efforts on how to effectively respond to different situations.

The meeting focused on strengthening communication, preparedness, and collaboration between law enforcement and local emergency organizations to enhance safety across the neighborhood.