Federal authorities carried out raids at adult day care facilities across Brooklyn, Queens and Staten Island on Tuesday as part of a major investigation into suspected Medicaid fraud involving more than 100 providers throughout New York.

Agents with Homeland Security Investigations were seen removing boxes of evidence from facilities in Brooklyn’s Borough Park and Sunset Park. Officials confirmed that the operation was court-authorized but declined to provide further details while the investigation remains ongoing.

The probe is examining allegations of improper billing, kickbacks, money laundering and other potential abuses involving taxpayer-funded services for seniors and other vulnerable residents.

The FBI is reviewing Medicaid payments for social adult care services between January 2019 and October 2024. During that period, New York’s program paid approximately $2.4 billion for these services, with costs reportedly running 40% to 60% above the national average.

Gov. Kathy Hochul described Tuesday’s raids as part of a broader, months-long effort to crack down on suspected fraud and protect public funds.

“We are targeting providers we believe engaged in illegal activity ranging from money laundering to kickbacks to improper billing and other fraudulent activities,” Hochul said.

Homeland Security Investigations emphasized that billing government programs for services that were never delivered is a serious offense, stating on X: “Billing public programs for care, transportation or other services that were never provided is fraud, NOT a paperwork mistake.”

Authorities have not disclosed how many of the more than 100 providers under scrutiny have been found to have committed fraud. The investigation remains ongoing, and the allegations against individual providers have not necessarily been proven.

The raids also come amid broader scrutiny of New York’s Medicaid oversight. Hochul has said her administration has saved more than $15 billion through stronger oversight since taking office in 2021.

Separately, the Trump administration has challenged New York’s overhaul of its Consumer Directed Personal Assistance Program (CDPAP), alleging that the restructuring was rigged. Hochul’s administration has denied wrongdoing and sought to dismiss the federal lawsuit.

Tuesday’s enforcement action signals continued federal scrutiny of Medicaid spending in New York, particularly programs intended to provide care and support for vulnerable populations.

🔥 LET’S GO! DHS agents are now hauling BOXES UPON BOXES of evidence out of this Korean “adult daycare” in Queens

LOVE to see this 👏🏼

I’m so sick of foreigners coming in and RIPPING OFF American taxpayers with their fake daycares. https://t.co/ba52raPSpV

— Nick Sortor (@nicksortor) October 20, 2026

Antisemitic graffiti was discovered on the beach in Belle Harbor Tuesday morning and is being referred to the NYPD Hate Crimes Unit.

Pesach Osina thanked the NYPD for its swift response and NYC Parks for promptly ensuring the graffiti was removed.

“Hate has no place in our communities. We must stand together against antisemitism and all forms of hate. Everyone deserves to feel safe and respected,” Osina said.

President Donald Trump has announced the Fraud Whistleblower Incentive Program, inviting Americans to report suspected fraud, corruption, and misuse of taxpayer dollars through Fraud.gov.

The initiative aims to enlist the public in the fight against fraud involving federal programs, with financial rewards available for qualifying tips. The Justice Department says eligible whistleblowers may receive $10,000 to $30,000 for information that leads to criminal charges, subject to program requirements and approval. Trump also discussed the possibility of a 1% commission on recovered funds.

The administration is encouraging Americans to help identify suspected wrongdoing and protect taxpayer money.

Report suspected fraud: https://fraud.gov/

The Fraud Whistleblower Incentive Program, giving YOU the power to seek out, report, and eliminate fraud in our communities. 🇺🇸

President Trump has waged an unprecedented war on fraud. Our country will not be plundered by fraudsters.

Join the fight: https://t.co/7eIL0CBdOx https://t.co/tSyjvsiW40

— The White House (@WhiteHouse) October 20, 2026

Rabbi Shlomo Farhi discusses lessons from our current Parshiyos in the context of civil unrest in France. He explores the tension between staying to address a difficult situation versus deciding when it is time to leave, using the historical journey of Avraham as an example.

R’ Farhi argues that when governments tolerate petty crime and lawlessness, it leads to broader anarchy. He warns that societies eventually suffer the consequences of the poison they allow.

He emphasizes that even if a situation is temporary, individuals have a moral duty to improve it while they are there. He compares this to the responsibility of cleaning up a messy hotel room before checking out.

He critiques what he calls strategic capitulation, where communities compromise their values to appease external pressures or short-term political goals. He calls for active civic engagement, such as voting and demanding the rule of law.

A central takeaway is the importance of having the courage to say no to social pressures, excessive consumerism, and harmful trends. He encourages families and institutions to set their own standards to protect their values rather than accepting the status quo.

Swastikas were found scrawled on the backs of seats aboard LIRR train car 7407, which departed West Hempstead for Grand Central at 7:23 a.m. Tuesday morning.

The discovery is disturbing, particularly so close to the Five Towns Jewish community.

Antisemitism has no place in public spaces or anywhere in our society.

A historic moment for Jewish education in the Village of Lawrence!

Mayor Samuel Nahmias and Trustee Shlomo Gottesman joined community leaders, elected officials, faculty, and school families on Thursday, October 15, for the official dedication ceremony of Lev Jewish Academy (formerly known as Brandeis Hebrew Academy and The Brandeis School, established in 1930). The milestone marks a new chapter and strategic partnership with the Leviev Foundation and JIQ Schools.

During the ceremony, Mayor Nahmias presented a formal proclamation to Lev Leviev and Olga Leviev honoring “The Leviev Foundation for their exceptional philanthropy, unwavering dedication to Jewish education, and invaluable contributions to the preservation and advancement of Jewish learning in the Village of Lawrence.”

Addressing the gathering, Mayor Nahmias emphasized how vital the Leviev Foundation’s partnership has been in ensuring the school remains a thriving educational anchor in our village.

Philanthropists Lev Leviev, Olga Leviev, and Chagit Sofiev Leviev (President of Lev Jewish Academy); elected leaders Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman; Senator Patricia Canzoneri Fitzpatrick; Assemblyman Ari Brown; and community leadersRabbi Baruch Babaev (Chief Rabbi of Bukharian Jews in the US & Canada); and Rabbi Shmaya Krinsky (Executive Director, Machne Israel Development Fund) particpated in the ribbon cutting and campus tour.

Inspiring speeches were delivered by Lev Leviev, Chagit Sofiev Leviev, Batya Zvulunov (Head of Judaic Curriculum at JIQ Schools), and Raz Levin (Head of School at Lev Jewish Academy), hosted by emcee Rabbi Simon Taylor.

New York residents struggling with winter heating expenses will soon be able to apply for state assistance, with applications for the Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP) opening November 2.

Gov. Kathy Hochul announced that approximately 1.5 million New Yorkers are eligible for the program, which helps qualifying households cover heating costs. The amount of assistance depends on factors such as household income, family size and heating needs. Some households may receive benefits automatically, while others will need to submit an application once the program opens.

The assistance comes as families prepare for another winter of high energy costs. National Grid’s latest seasonal forecast projects that average residential electricity bills for Upstate New York customers will increase by approximately 3% to 5% over the five-month winter period, depending on the service area.

Natural gas customers could see a modest decrease instead, with projected winter bills expected to be about $9 lower for households using an estimated 713 therms over the season.

Eligible residents can review program details and apply through New York State’s Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance.

Apply online: https://otda.ny.gov/programs/apply/?TSPD_101_R0=084c043756ab2000558122698217d882a899a0ae31a20a78a215ccc9b48c686ff206a08cd4bb88c208b67fbcaf1430003958d5b32b0866496e603b2491ecdf0847798b4b63c8eb1d4886af630d351628e55a98f70dff5b45636ae2e89c0c837d#heap

U.S. Vice President JD Vance says he will stay out of Israel’s upcoming election, declining to endorse Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu even as President Donald Trump has publicly expressed support for the Israeli leader. The decision highlights a difference in how the two senior figures approach Israeli politics and comes amid reported disagreements between Vance and Netanyahu over U.S. policy toward Iran.

In an interview with Mark Halperin on 2WAY Tonight, Vance said his attention was on American politics and the upcoming midterm elections, not Israel’s October 27 Knesset vote. He described Trump as an exceptionally influential endorser and said he would leave the Israeli election to Israeli voters.

Vance called Israel a strong American ally but acknowledged that the two countries do not always agree. His position has drawn attention because he previously traveled to Hungary to campaign for then-Prime Minister Viktor Orbán, who ultimately lost his reelection bid.

Vance’s relationship with Netanyahu has also come under scrutiny following tensions over the administration’s approach to Iran. After Vance suggested that elements within Israel’s government had worked against diplomatic efforts with Tehran, Axios reported that Netanyahu challenged him during a meeting in Washington. Vance later characterized their conversation as direct but cordial.

The vice president has defended the administration’s handling of the conflict with Iran, arguing that Tehran must make substantive concessions on its nuclear program before a lasting agreement can be reached. He has said Washington remains open to diplomacy but will not accept promises without concrete action.

Vance’s refusal to endorse Netanyahu also comes amid broader debate over the direction of the Republican Party’s approach to Israel. Trump and Secretary of State Marco Rubio have been more publicly prominent in expressing support for Israel, while Vance has maintained a more reserved public posture toward Netanyahu. His association with commentator Tucker Carlson, a frequent critic of Israel, has added to scrutiny of where Vance stands within that debate.

Vance said he doesn’t involve himself in foreign elections: “I endorse American candidates… I’m not getting involved in Israeli elections.” Vance himself traveled to Budapest to attend a rally supporting and endorsing former Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán’s reelection bid, which ultimately failed. We know where Vance stands.

Vice President JD Vance REFUSES to endorse Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu for reelection, even after POTUS did, clearly stating, “I endorse American candidates… I’m not getting involved in Israeli elections.”

Mark Halperin: Over the weekend, the president endorsed Benjamin Netanyahu for reelection in Israel. Do you endorse Benjamin Netanyahu?

Vice President Vance: “The president has the most effective endorsement in American or international political history. I endorse American candidates, and that’s where I’m focused on is the midterm. So I’m not getting involved in Israeli elections.”

Mark Halperin: “You don’t want to say one way or the other?”

Vice President Vance: “I’m not anti-endorsing it. I’m not pro-endorsing it. I’m not getting involved in Israeli elections.”

A perfect answer!

— RedWave Press (@RedWavePress) October 20, 2026

Ben Shapiro addressed a recent online controversy regarding his comments on Christianity and Judaism at an event at the University of Texas at Austin. He refutes claims that he is anti-Christian or wishes to convert Christians to the Noachide laws.

Shapiro explains that Judaism is a non-exclusivist religion and that he, as a Jew, encourages Christians to practice their faith fervently. He clarifies that he views Christianity as a vital component for a revitalized America.

Shapiro critiques Tucker Carlson for what he describes as a descent into madness, accusing Carlson of distorting Jewish theology to push anti-Semitic narratives and defending controversial figures or ideologies like Sharia law.

Shapiro contrasts his active campaigning for conservative candidates with what he characterizes as Carlson’s attempts to demoralize conservative voters and sabotage the Republican party’s chances in the midterms.

Shapiro concludes by warning that Carlson’s current rhetoric is counterproductive to conservative goals and emphasizes the importance of participating in the upcoming elections to prevent a left-wing takeover.

New York City is launching a new initiative to help residents navigate major changes to federal food assistance and health insurance programs, with city officials warning that eligible families could lose critical benefits if they fail to meet new requirements or complete the necessary paperwork.

Mayor Zohran Mamdani announced Monday the creation of the Health and Affordability Resource Team (HART), a $3 million program funded through the city budget. Outreach workers will be sent into neighborhoods to help residents understand the new rules, maintain their coverage and access assistance with other rising expenses.

The effort comes as federal changes to Medicaid and the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), commonly known as food stamps, place additional requirements on some recipients. City officials estimate that as many as 900,000 New Yorkers could be at risk of losing Medicaid coverage when new work requirements take effect in January. Meanwhile, expanded SNAP work requirements introduced in March have already been linked by city officials to the loss of benefits for approximately 26,500 residents.

Medicaid currently covers about 3.6 million people in New York City. Under the new federal rules, certain adults under age 65 will need to document at least 80 hours per month of employment, qualifying community service or education to maintain eligibility. Exemptions apply to some groups, including parents caring for children under 14. State officials are also seeking an exemption for Bronx residents, citing the borough’s high unemployment rate.

Another concern is the requirement for more frequent Medicaid eligibility reviews. Healthcare providers warn that additional forms and administrative hurdles could result in people losing coverage even when they remain eligible.

HART teams are intended to help prevent that outcome. Workers speak 13 languages and have received specialized training on the federal changes. Many also bring personal experience navigating the public benefits system. Their responsibilities will include helping residents preserve or restore health insurance and food assistance, while connecting them with resources for housing costs, medical debt and other household expenses.

The city plans to prioritize communities where residents face the greatest risk of losing assistance and work with local organizations to distribute information and provide support.

Mamdani said the initiative is intended to help New Yorkers retain access to essential services as the rules change, arguing that healthcare and nutritious food should be treated as basic necessities rather than privileges.

27,000 New Yorkers lost their SNAP benefits due to cruel cuts from the federal government. If you’re one of them, New York City is here to help.

As of October 1st, you can re-enroll for SNAP benefits. But there are new rules. 
> Call 718-SNAP-NOW or visit https://t.co/wpmvamG9dO for help re-enrolling and to understand what’s changed.

While Washington turns its back on working Americans, New York is here for you. Because everyone deserves to put food on their table.

— Mayor Zohran Kwame Mamdani (@NYCMayor) October 16, 2026

Navigating changes to Medicaid and SNAP shouldn’t mean navigating a maze to get help.

Today, we’re launching HART, a new outreach team helping New Yorkers keep their health coverage, food benefits and get support on everything from housing assistance to eviction prevention.

As federal work requirements put thousands at risk of losing benefits and up to 900,000 New Yorkers at risk of losing health coverage, we’re making sure no one gets left behind.

— Mayor Zohran Kwame Mamdani (@NYCMayor) October 19, 2026

New York Gov. Kathy Hochul received a massive welcome from thousands of students at Satmar’s Bais Ruchel girls’ schools in Kiryas Joel on Monday, during a major campaign stop in the Hasidic community ahead of the November 3 election.

The visit highlighted the community’s support for Hochul, including appreciation for her decision to participate in a federal scholarship tax credit program designed to help families afford private and yeshiva tuition through qualifying donations.

נאך פון די גרויסע אויפנאמע דורך די בית רחל מיידלעך אין קרית יואל פאר גאווערנער האוקל https://t.co/NVqXqNalRJ

— Hasidic (@hasidic_1) October 19, 2026

Community leaders Gedaliah Szegedin and Moshe Indig joined Hochul on stage as students greeted the governor. She also held a private meeting with Satmar Rebbe Rabbi Ahron Teitelbaum, as community support emerged ahead of her reelection contest against Republican Bruce Blakeman.

Hochul also traveled to New Square on Monday, where she met with the Skverer Rebbe as part of her campaign tour through Rockland County and surrounding Hasidic communities.

By: Rabbi Mark Wildes

What do Palestinian flags and songs glorifying Islamist terrorists have to do with overcrowded classrooms in France?

This weekend, France experienced riots leading to over 1,800 arrests, hundreds of injured police officers, shops looted, and a historic city hall set on fire. And what’s the explanation we’re being given? Poor school conditions and the cost of living.

Maybe that’s what some people were protesting. Fine. But what I’m seeing are Palestinian flags, slogans about Gaza, a vandalized synagogue, and videos of young demonstrators singing about Mohammed Merah, who murdered Jewish children in Toulouse, and Salah Abdeslam, one of the Bataclan terrorists.

What’s ironic is that France has spent years condemning Israel for building homes in Judea, the very heart of our ancestral homeland, where Jews lived thousands of years before France even existed as a country.

France should spend less time lecturing Israel about where Jews are allowed to live and a little more time addressing the extremism within its own borders.

Because this was never just Israel’s problem.

As France was burning, Jews around the world were reading the story of Noach.

Rashi, the great medieval Torah commentator from France, asks why God had Noach spend 120 years building the Ark. Surely God could have saved him another way.

Rashi answers that God wanted people to see Noach building the Ark and ask him why. Noach would warn them about the coming flood, giving them an opportunity to change their ways.

But they didn’t listen.

I keep thinking about that as I watch what’s happening in France. For years, Israel has been sounding the alarm about Islamist terrorism, only to be accused of exaggerating the threat. Europe has already suffered its own horrific terrorist attacks. And now we’re seeing the same disturbing signs of that extremist ideology surfacing among some of these demonstrators.

The lesson of Noach is that warnings are meant to be taken seriously BEFORE disaster strikes.

I pray France and the rest of the West start listening before more innocent people pay the price.

A special evening at Rabbi Groner’s yeshiva, which hosted three Nova Festival survivors this past Thursday night. They joined in the Erev Shabbos Oneg, singing, dancing, and speaking about their experiences.

🔥A special evening at Rabbi Groner’s yeshiva, which hosted three Nova Festival survivors this past Thursday night. They joined in the Erev Shabbos Oneg, singing, dancing, and speaking about their experiences. https://t.co/tilNohB8TB

— 5TownsCentral (@5TownsCentral) October 19, 2026

A Capital One bank was vandalized with graffiti and windows shattered at the branch on 86th Street. Red graffiti included pro-Palestinian slogans and an inverted red triangle, a symbol used in Hamas propaganda videos that has since been adopted by some pro-Palestinian activist groups.

Statement from Speaker Julie Menin:

“The vandalism and destruction at the Capital One branch on 86th Street is deeply disturbing and unacceptable. I have been in contact with the NYPD regarding this incident and have urged an immediate investigation, including whether this is a potential antisemitic hate crime. There is no place for hate, intimidation or violence in New York City.”

Statement from UJA-Federation of New York:

“It is disturbing to see graffiti against Israeli companies and vandalism like this in New York. We remain in close touch with CSI Security NY and law enforcement partners as they investigate the matter and hopefully identify the perpetrators.”

🚨UPPER EAST SIDE: PaIestine Action, a UK based direct radical action network vandalized and violently destroyed the windows of Capital One Bank in 86th Street.
Look at Europe yesterday to see what will be in NYC today. https://t.co/R0Rtnf9oZ3

— Manhattan Mingle (@ManhattanMingle) October 19, 2026

HEMPSTEAD, NY — Today, Town of Hempstead Supervisor John Ferretti called on his campaign opponent, Joe Scianablo, to immediately return a $15,000 contribution from anti-Israel Congressman Pat Ryan’s Political Action Committee (Patriot PAC NY), reject Ryan’s repeated endorsements, and issue a sincere apology to Jewish neighbors and all residents who stand with the State of Israel. 

Ferretti called the prospect of an Scianablo apology unlikely, since the wannabe Supervisor posted a Facebook video of himself campaigning with the anti-Israel Congressman on Sunday, October 18th (https://www.facebook.com/share/r/1ZR8pzC8iR/).

On October 27, 2025, Scianablo accepted $15,000 from Patriot PAC NY, the political action committee controlled by Congressman Pat Ryan (NYSBOE, Patriot PAC NY, 12/01/2025).[1] Congressman Ryan has voted against all aid to Israel, including humanitarian assistance (Roll Call 243, HR 8595)[2], in Congress, publicly declaring critical Israeli assistance as “wrong on every level” (Pat Ryan X Post, 7/15/26).[3]

 Despite his anti-Israel voting record, Scianablo accepted Ryan’s endorsement through the Congressman’s Patriot PAC NY in September of 2025.  The endorsement of Scianablo was reiterated on May 21, 2026 (Patriot PAC NY, 5/21/2026).[4] Rather than distancing himself from Ryan’s hostility toward Israel, Scianablo publicly celebrated the backing, taking to social media to state that he was “honored to be endorsed” (Scianablo Facebook Post, 6/26/26).[5] To date, Scianablo has neither returned the $15,000 nor denounced Congressman Ryan’s anti-Israel record.

“Accepting financial support and political backing from an anti-Israel member of Congress and calling it an honor is a betrayal of the values shared by the people of Hempstead Town,” said Town Supervisor John Ferretti. “Congressman Pat Ryan made his position clear when he voted against aid to Israel and called supporting our ally ‘wrong on every level.’ By embracing Ryan’s money and endorsement, Joe Scianablo has made his own priorities clear.”

Supervisor Ferretti called on Scianablo to take immediate corrective action:

1. Return the $15,000 campaign contribution from Patriot PAC NY in full.

2. Publicly reject and renounce the endorsements from Congressman Pat Ryan and Patriot PAC NY.

3. Apologize to Nassau County’s Jewish community and all residents who support Israel’s right to security and self-defense.

—

[1] Patriot PAC NY, expenditure of $15,000 to “Joe for Hempstead”, made on 10/27/2025, Patriot PAC NY 27-Day Post General Election Itemized Report filed on 12/01/2025.

[2] Roll Call 243, Bill Number: H.R. 8595, Part A Amendment No. 8, July 15, 2026.

[3] Congressman Pat Ryan (@PatRyanUC), X (formerly Twitter) post on July 15, 2026.

[4] Patriot PAC NY, Press Release, May 21, 2026.

[5] Joe for Hempstead, Facebook Post on June 26, 2026.

Below: Link of Scianablo campaigning with Congressman Pat Ryan, who voted against aid to Israel.

https://www.facebook.com/share/r/1ZR8pzC8iR/

Paid for by the Nassau County Republican Committee.

Dr Akiva & Dr Tamar Perlman on Let’s Get Real with Coach Menachem, Sunday October 18th.

When My Wounds Become Ours: A Conversation on the Tensions That Make Marriage Both Challenging and Transformative

Tucker Carlson’s and Warren Buffett’s Orthodox Rabbi, Jon Gross, Esq., joins Talkline with Zev Brenner.

Rabbi Jonathan Gross is a former Department of Justice attorney who rose to prominence representing January 6 defendants before serving in the Trump administration’s Weaponization Working Group.

He has since become a high‑profile whistleblower, sharply criticizing DOJ leadership and alleging political bias in federal prosecutions.

Zev also addressed the elephant in the room: How can an Orthodox Jew agree to appear on Tucker Carlson’s show after years of criticism directed at the Jewish community and Israel? Doesn’t going on his platform risk legitimizing him and giving him a free pass?

“President Trump, my friend Donald – thank you for your extraordinary endorsement. Israel has never had a greater friend in the White House. Together we will never let Iran’s regime get nuclear weapons. Thank you for your clarity, courage and unwavering support.”

President Trump, my friend Donald – thank you for your extraordinary endorsement. Israel has never had a greater friend in the White House. Together we will never let Iran’s regime get nuclear weapons. Thank you for your clarity, courage and unwavering support.

@realDonaldTrump https://t.co/GqaOVB74Dj

— Benjamin Netanyahu – בנימין נתניהו (@netanyahu) October 18, 2026

“To the Great People of Israel:

Bibi Netanyahu has been a Great Warrior Prime Minister, and an even greater Partner for Peace in combatting the Islamic Republic of Iran, with its 51 year old chant, “Death to Israel, Death to America! We will destroy the Little Satan and the Big Satan.”

What Country can survive when things such as this are allowed to be said, because eventually, they always end up being true? It would have been only a question of time until Iran would have put that ominous phrase into effect, but they have been systematically destroyed, both Militarily and Financially, and unless they change their ways, rapidly, we will soon finish the job.

If Israel has the wrong Leader, which would be anyone other than Bibi, America will have to do this work ourselves, and I am not inclined to do so. Bibi Netanyahu has been Strong, Brave, and Brilliant in the face of tremendous opposition, including that coming from even Israel, itself. Despite all of that, he has endured and, in fact, he has thrived! I have watched Bibi under the most trying of times.

Normal men or women in such situations would have wilted under the pressure — But Bibi did not wilt, he actually got stronger, and maintains that same Strength today. This is the kind of Partner that the United States of America is demanding of Israel, a Country for which it has done so much.

Please let this Letter serve to represent my Complete and Total Endorsement of Bibi Netanyahu in his upcoming Race for Re-Election as Prime Minister of Israel. BIBI NETANYAHU WILL NEVER LET YOU DOWN! Thank you for your attention to this matter.

DONALD J. TRUMP
PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA”

🚨 BREAKING: President Trump gives Israeli PM Netanyahu his "Complete and Total ENDORSEMENT" for re-election, 9 days before Israel votes

"Bibi Netanyahu has been a Great Warrior Prime Minister, and an even greater Partner for Peace in combatting the Islamic Republic of Iran."

"If Israel has the wrong Leader, which would be anyone other than Bibi, America will have to do this work ourselves, and I am not inclined to do so."

"Normal men or women in such situations would have wilted under the pressure — But Bibi did not wilt, he actually got stronger."

"BIBI NETANYAHU WILL NEVER LET YOU DOWN!"

Israelis vote on October 27

Netanyahu is already the longest-serving prime minister in Israel’s history.

— Eric Daugherty (@EricLDaugh) October 18, 2026

NYPD investigators, the Gun Suppression Division, and the Queens District Attorney’s Office have made an arrest in connection with the senseless shooting and murder of a 14-year-old boy.

Statement from Queens DA Katz: “The broad daylight murder of 14-year-old Malakai Adams in Edgemere was as senseless as it was brutal. Now, a 17-year-old is facing up to 25 years to life in prison. If convicted, the brazen defendant allegedly took off after the shooting on the victim’s scooter.”

We are very thankful to our police departments for bringing this case to justice.

A Shul in Paris’ 19th arrondissement was vandalized on October 18 as unrest spread across France. This amid violence and destruction included fires at public buildings, attacks on police stations, and looting of businesses.

The incident raises renewed concerns over the safety of Jewish institutions amid the broader unrest.

🚨 BREAKING: 🇫🇷 Paris, France | Oct. 18: A synagogue in Paris’ 19th arrondissement was vandalized amid nationwide riots.

Synagogues targeted, public buildings set ablaze, police stations attacked, shops looted.

They came for the Jews first.
Now they’re coming for France. https://t.co/y1rRky7sZd

— Combat Antisemitism Movement (@CombatASemitism) October 18, 2026

Zev Brenner speaks with Republican State Senator Patricia Canzoneri-Fitzpatrick about her political priorities and the local issues impacting her Long Island district. The conversation covers a wide range of topics, beginning with the senator’s focus on government spending and affordability. She expresses concern over the substantial increase in the state budget since 2019 and discusses her efforts to address potential waste, fraud, and abuse within the state’s Medicaid system as a way to improve the financial situation for her constituents.

The senator also discusses the political climate in Albany, arguing that the current legislative majority often prioritizes New York City at the expense of Long Island. She explains that she works to ensure her district receives its fair share of state funding for essential services like local schools and infrastructure. The dialogue then shifts to her legislative work regarding anti-semitism, where she describes her participation in a task force and her support for legislation that would hold colleges accountable if they fail to address incidents of hatred on their campuses. She also advocates for increased security funding for houses of worship.

Reflecting on a recent trip to Israel, the senator shares how the experience gave her a deeper personal connection to the Jewish community she represents. The interview concludes with a discussion about the upcoming election, the role of local versus national politics, and the senator’s encouragement for all residents to engage in the democratic process by participating in the upcoming vote.

Statement from the Nassau County Police Department following the tragic school shooting in Oregon:

The Nassau County Police Department conducts intensified school patrols every day as part of our ongoing commitment to keeping our students, staff, and schools safe.

In light of the tragic school shooting in Oregon, County Executive Blakeman and Commissioner Ryder have directed a further increase of our patrol presence at schools throughout the county as an added precaution.

There are currently no known threats to Nassau County.

However, we take these incidents extremely seriously and will continue to take every necessary measure to ensure the safety of our communities.

Gut Vuch & Shavuah Tov to all!

IDF Eliminates Four Hamas Operatives 

The IDF announced that it eliminated four members of Hamas’ military wing in separate strikes across Gaza, accusing them of planning attacks against Israeli troops and civilians and attempting to rebuild the terror group’s military capabilities in violation of the ceasefire.

Maher Walid Omar al-Husseini, described by the military as a Nukhba cell commander, was killed in an airstrike in southern Gaza on Wednesday. According to the IDF, al-Husseini infiltrated the Re’im military base during the October 7, 2023, massacre and had recently been involved in advancing attacks. The military released an image it said showed him during the infiltration.

The IDF also reported eliminating Mahmoud Khaled Mohammed Madhoun, whom it identified as a Nukhba operative who had engaged Israeli forces and launched anti-tank missiles during the war. Ubaida Suhail Hamad Murtaja, identified as a sniper operative, was killed on Friday, while Adham Khalil Mohammed Marouf and Abd al-Jawad Juda were also named among the operatives eliminated in the recent strikes.

Trump Says Some Israelis Want Him Involved in Netanyahu’s Election Campaign

President Donald Trump said in an interview with Newsmax that some figures in Israel have urged him to get involved in Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s election campaign.

Trump spoke positively about his past relationship with Netanyahu, saying the two had worked well together and achieved significant results. He did not, however, issue a formal endorsement of Netanyahu’s candidacy.

The remarks come as Netanyahu’s political future remains a subject of attention in Israel, with Trump’s comments raising questions about whether he might play a more direct role in the country’s domestic political debate.

Netanyahu Pushes Back After Obama Says Israel Has Lost ‘Moral High Ground’

Former President Barack Obama said during remarks in Northern Ireland that Israel had “lost the moral high ground in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict,” renewing debate over Israel’s conduct and the broader dispute over the land.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu responded by emphasizing the Jewish people’s historic connection to the land of Israel and rejecting descriptions of Jews as foreign occupiers.

Netanyahu pointed to the Jewish people’s ancient ties to the region, including Judea, arguing that Israel’s history cannot be understood through comparisons to colonial powers. The response underscored a fundamental divide in how the conflict is framed: critics focus on Palestinian displacement and Israeli control, while Netanyahu and his supporters stress Jewish historical roots and the legitimacy of Jewish national self-determination.

Violent Unrest in France Raise Security Concerns

Reports circulating online describe violent confrontations between protesters and police in several French cities, including Marseille, Paris and Lyon, with claims of vandalism, attacks on officers and damage to public buildings. The reports also allege that hundreds of people have been arrested and businesses looted.

According to the accounts, scenes in Marseille showed police struggling to contain unrest, while protesters allegedly targeted City Hall and a police station. Other reports described fires damaging buildings, including Limoges City Hall. Marseille’s mayor reportedly called for answers over the handling of security, while President Emmanuel Macron pledged additional police support.

The scale and circumstances of the reported incidents should be confirmed through reliable reporting and official statements before being treated as established facts.

For Jewish communities across Europe, reports of instability and concerns about antisemitism can add to existing anxieties about safety and the future. Calls for Jews to consider moving to Israel reflect those concerns, though the reported unrest alone does not establish that Jewish residents are being specifically targeted in these incidents.

Wow.

What an incredible statement from Benjamin Netanyahu.

This is clearly in response to Obama disgustingly lying about the Jewish people have “stolen land” https://t.co/TwnpFYuVrc

— Kosher (@koshercockney) October 16, 2026

תקשיבו זה הסרטון הכי מטורף שראיתי עד עכשיו. תראו איזה זעם ואיזה טירוף. יש פה איבוד שליטה טוטלי של כוחות הביטחון במרסיי. לא ברור מה הולך להתרחש. אם מקרון לא יפעיל את החוק משנת 1955, יכריז על מצב חירום, יפעיל את הצבא וירחיב את סמכויות המשטרה – צרפת בסכנה רצינית. הבנאדם לא באירוע! https://t.co/7wqE9V1q4e

— Itai Cellier (@hikelikeme) October 17, 2026

Looting Louis Vuitton during the “student protests” in France.

This is real. https://t.co/O3Q1nNA9dM

— Open Source Intel (@Osint613) October 17, 2026

Macron, congrats on freeing Palestine.

You freed it all over you. https://t.co/oDhUOXWQbc

— Hillel Fuld (@HilzFuld) October 17, 2026

Besuros Tovos.

Former NBA All-Star Amar’e Stoudemire has traded the basketball court for law enforcement, graduating from the Miami Dade College School of Justice Basic Law Enforcement Academy.

The college announced his graduation Wednesday, noting that the 43-year-old also received the Harry “Coach” Everett Award in recognition of his contributions to the academy during training. Stoudemire is now set to begin in-house training with the Miami-Dade Schools Police Department.

Stoudemire said joining the police force fulfills a childhood dream and continues a family tradition of public service. Several of his relatives have served in law enforcement, including an uncle who was a captain and a cousin who is also a captain. His sister is currently attending the academy as well.

Stoudemire’s transition is another example of a high-profile NBA figure pursuing police work after retirement. Shaquille O’Neal has also trained with law enforcement agencies and served in reserve officer and sheriff’s deputy roles in Florida and Georgia.

On the court, Stoudemire built a distinguished 14-season NBA career, earning six All-Star selections and the 2003 Rookie of the Year award. He spent eight seasons with the Phoenix Suns, who retired his No. 32 jersey in 2024, and won a bronze medal with Team USA at the 2004 Olympics. He is also set to enter the Basketball Hall of Fame in 2026.

His basketball journey extended to Israel, where he won two Israeli Premier League championships, was selected as an All-Star twice and earned Finals MVP honors in 2020. He was inducted into the International Jewish Sports Hall of Fame in 2025.

Stoudemire converted to Judaism in 2020 and has spoken publicly about his religious studies, frequently sharing posts about learning Gemara and other seforim. He has coached at Israel’s Maccabiah Games and launched his own kosher wine line.

In 2022, Stoudemire stepped away from an assistant coaching position with the Brooklyn Nets to observe Shabbos. His latest career move adds another unexpected chapter to a life that has included professional basketball, coaching, business ventures and Jewish religious study. We wish Amare much Hatzlacha.

NBA legend Amare Stoudamire has become a police officer in Miami, Florida.

When asked why he decided to join the department, he said that it is something he has always wanted to do since childhood. https://t.co/NpX4HvZhqp

— Anthony Brian Logan (ABL) 🇺🇸 (@ANTHONYBLOGAN) October 15, 2026

Relatives of Americans murdered during Hamas’s October 7, 2023, attack on Israel gathered at the U.S. State Department in Washington, D.C., calling for accountability and a full congressional investigation into the killings.

Secretary of State Marco Rubio, Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick and U.S. CENTCOM commander Adm. Brad Cooper attended the ceremony, according to a statement released by the families.

Abbey Onn, whose cousin Carmela Dan was murdered alongside her granddaughter Noya, emphasized that the massacre claimed American lives as well as Israeli victims. Nearly 50 American citizens were killed, while dozens more were wounded.

Onn said the families came to ensure their loved ones would not be forgotten and that those responsible would ultimately face justice.

Ruby Chen, whose son, IDF Staff Sgt. Itay Chen, was killed while defending Israel’s Gaza border and whose body was taken into Gaza, spoke about his son’s decision to serve. Rather than pursue a college education, Chen said, his son chose military service because he believed certain things were worth protecting.

The ceremony’s recognition of the American victims was meaningful to the families, Chen said, but he stressed that remembrance must lead to concrete action.

Chen called on Congress to establish an independent investigative committee and urged the U.S. government to pursue those who financed the October 7 attack. He said individuals responsible for funding the assault must be brought to the United States to face trial for crimes against American citizens.

For the families, the gathering was both an opportunity to honor those they lost and a renewed demand for answers, accountability and continued support from the U.S. government.

Marco Rubio today at the State Department ceremony honoring Americans who were murdered and taken hostage on October 7.

“These terrorists hunted families in their kitchens and bedrooms. They went to a music festival. And they butchered them.” https://t.co/P031K94Ic4

— Vivid.🇮🇱 (@VividProwess) October 15, 2026

Brandeis Hebrew Academy’s transformation into Lev Jewish Academy, a new partnership with the Leviev Foundation, philanthropist Lev Leviev, and Chagit Sofiev-Leviev.

Today, the school celebrated its Grand Opening and Dedication Ceremony in Lawrence, marking an exciting new chapter focused on Torah education, academic excellence, and strengthening Jewish identity.

The partnership also aims to make Jewish day school more accessible to families through financial assistance and support for children transitioning from public schools.

GREAT NECK, NY — Friends of David Hassid, the campaign committee supporting New York State Assembly candidate David Hassid, today released a statement expressing deep outrage following bombshell revelations showing that Democratic opponent Kim Keiserman’s anti-Israel political ties and financial support go much further than previously known.

While earlier reporting in the New York Post detailed Keiserman’s financial support for Israel-hating politicians, including James Talarico and Raphael Warnock, newly uncovered campaign finance records reveal that Keiserman’s pattern of bankrolling anti-Israel hatred is far more extensive and deeply rooted.

26 Donations totaling over $4,000 to Anti-Israel Politician Melanie D’Arrigo

The latest revelations expose that Kim Keiserman made 26 contributions to Friends of Melanie D’Arrigo.  D’Arrigo was a candidate for the U.S. House of Representatives with a documented record of anti-Israel stances and close ties to groups which are hostile toward the Jewish State:

• Opposition to Anti-BDS Legislation: As reported by Jewish Insider (June 23, 2020), D’Arrigo refused to support anti-BDS legislation, which penalizes businesses and organizations that boycott Israel.

• Opposed West Bank Actions: D’Arrigo publicly declared that annexation of the West Bank would be a “mistake.”

• Endorsed by Group Which Called Israel’s Defensive Actions “Genocide”: D’Arrigo accepted the endorsement of Muslims for Progress. This group characterized Israel’s defensive actions following the October 7 terrorist attacks as “genocide” in a May 8, 2024 open letter on the NJ Muslim Coalition website and in a FOX 5 New York report on December 23, 2023.  The organization also has referred to Hamas terrorists as “martyrs” (Muslims for Progress Facebook Post, 9-03-24) and calls Israel’s presence existence an “occupation” (Muslims for Progress, Facebook Post, 5-20-24).

• Endorsed by Working Families Party: D’Arrigo was endorsed by the Working Families Party (WFP), which explicitly opposed U.S. aid to Israel in press statements dated October 20, 2023, and November 2, 2023.

Extensive Pattern Goes Far Beyond Initial Reports

These new revelations demonstrate that Keiserman’s anti-Israel financial backing goes well beyond her previously reported donations to other anti-Israel politicians:

• James Talarico (Talarico for Texas): Keiserman donated $500 on October 22, 2025, and posted a photo with him on social media (@KimKeiserman) on October 24, 2025, stating she was “thrilled” to meet him and was “rooting him on!” Talarico has called for a ban on offensive military weapon sales to Israel.

• Raphael Warnock (Warnock for Georgia): Keiserman donated $1,000 on August 29, 2022. Warnock was quoted in the New York Post (Nov. 30, 2020), accusing Israel of shooting down “unarmed Palestinian sisters and brothers,” and he signed a letter comparing West Bank settlements to “apartheid” (Jewish Insider).  Finally, Warnock voted against military aid to Israel.

Hassid Condemns Keiserman’s Deepening Anti-Israel Records

As the son of Iranian Jewish refugees who escaped persecution during Iran’s 1979 Revolution—his father fleeing on horseback—David Hassid expressed profound outrage that his opponent’s anti-Israel bankrolling runs so much deeper than voters were initially led to believe.

“These bombshell revelations prove that Kim Keiserman’s anti-Israel ties go much further than previously known,” said David Hassid. “Kim Keiserman has put her money behind candidates who have been at the forefront of an anti-Israel and anti-Semitic agenda. She has used her own money to back politicians who have voted against weapons funding for Israel and officials who have compared Israeli settlements to ‘apartheid.’ This sort of anti-Israel agenda has no place in the New York State Assembly and is completely at odds with the large Jewish and Persian communities that call the 16th Assembly District home. I am offended by Keiserman’s funding of an anti-Israel agenda, and she owes voters of the 16th Assembly District an explanation and an apology.”

“The choice in the race for the 16th Assembly District couldn’t be more stark,” Hassid added. “My opponent has put her personal finances behind politicians who have actively worked against the State of Israel — in word and in deed. As the son of parents who escaped religious persecution in Iran, I will never stand with the forces of anti-Semitism and anti-Israelism. I will be a voice in the fight against anti-Semitism and all forms of hate.”

Strong Local Leadership Against Hate

Hassid has proven his commitment to protecting local communities, working alongside Nassau County Legislator Mazi Pilip to support key legislation against hate, including the Religious Freedom Act (protecting houses of worship from blockade) and the Mask Ban legislation (preventing violent demonstrators from hiding their identities).

Endorsing Hassid, Nassau County Legislator Mazi Pilip stated:

“David Hassid is a strong voice against anti-Semitism and all hate. We need him in the New York State Assembly. There is no place in elective office for his opponent, based on her record of funding politicians who have taken disgraceful anti-Israel positions and made offensive statements. I encourage everyone in the 16th Assembly District to vote for David Hassid for Assembly.”

Paid for by the Nassau County Republican Committee

Commemorating the 83rd Yahrtzeit of the Aish Kodesh of Piaseczna, HaRav Kalonymus Kalman Shapira ZTVK”L HY”D.

The annual event takes place on October 14, 2026 at Cong. Aish Kodesh in Woodmere, and featured a talk by Rabbi Moshe Weinberger as well as music by Yosef Karduner with special guests Eitan Katz and Aryeh Kunstler.

The Village of Lawrence recognized Fourth Precinct Commanding Officer Matt Schiller and Lieutenant Charles Sollin of the Nassau County Police Department for their dedication, professionalism, and continued commitment to the safety and well-being of the Lawrence community.

At the September Village Board meeting, Mayor Samuel (Shlomo) Nahmias presented Fourth Precinct Commanding Officer Matt Schiller and Lieutenant Charles Sollin with Village of Lawrence proclamations in appreciation of their service and partnership with the Village.

Mayor Nahmias and the Board of Trustees expressed their gratitude for the leadership and dedication of the Fourth Precinct and for the strong working relationship between the Nassau County Police Department and the Village of Lawrence.

“The safety and security of our residents is one of our highest priorities,” said Mayor Nahmias. “We are grateful to have such dedicated law enforcement professionals working with us and looking out for our community. We appreciate everything Commanding Officer Schiller, Lieutenant Sollin, and the entire Fourth Precinct do for the residents of Lawrence.”

The Village also recognized Auxiliary Police Officer Jon Isler, a longtime resident, who is retiring from the Nassau County Auxiliary Police at the end of September after 20 years of service.

For approximately 15 years, Officer Isler has regularly provided security and assistance at Village Board meetings, in addition to serving the community at numerous events and functions. His longtime presence has made him a familiar and valued member of the Lawrence community.

“Jon has given two decades of his time and service to our community,” said Mayor Nahmias. “We thank him for his commitment, professionalism, and willingness to serve. On behalf of the Village, we wish Jon and his family all the best as he begins this next chapter.”

The Village of Lawrence extends its sincere appreciation to the Nassau County Police Department, the Fourth Precinct, and all of the officers and auxiliary personnel who work to protect and serve the community.

The Village looks forward to continuing its strong partnership with law enforcement to promote public safety and maintain a secure and welcoming community for Lawrence residents.

Rabbi Yehuda Menchel was riding the subway when, just before his stop, he noticed that someone who had gotten off a few stops earlier had left a package on the seat.

He felt it was the right thing to go out of his way to return it. The package had an address on it, so he brought it to a FedEx store and asked to have it shipped.

The employee asked him what was inside. Rabbi Menchel replied that he had no idea. When the employee looked perplexed, he explained that he had found the package on the subway and simply wanted to make sure it got back to its owner.

The employee seemed confused at first. Then his face lit up.

“Oh! You mean you just wanted to do the right thing?! That’s amazing! You don’t see that very often nowadays!”

Rabbi Menchel sent off the package, and a little while later, he received a letter in response. See the letter below.

By: Rabbi Shraga Freedman of Living Kiddush Hashem

New York City Comptroller Mark Levine has backed away from a campaign commitment to reinvest city funds in Israeli government bonds, saying the decision was driven by financial considerations and technical challenges.

Levine, who is Jewish and has described himself as a supporter of Israel, told The New York Times that politics played no role in the decision. “I always said this would be based on financial considerations only, not politics,” he said, maintaining that his position had not changed.

The decision received a public endorsement from Mayor Zohran Mamdani, who argued that the city should not purchase bonds issued by any foreign government. Mamdani said New York should apply the same policy to Israel as it does to other sovereign nations. Of course, this has absolutely nothing to do with hatred for the only Jewish state.

The move marks a shift from Levine’s position during the June 2025 Democratic primary, when he argued that Israeli bonds belonged in the city’s diversified investment portfolio and pointed to their decades-long record of returns. As comptroller, Levine oversees roughly $325 billion in city pension assets.

Former Comptroller Scott Stringer, who expanded the city’s Israeli bond holdings during his tenure, criticized the reversal, describing the bonds as a sound investment. He warned that the decision could strengthen the BDS movement and contribute to an environment of increased antisemitism.

Dov Hikind also condemned Levine’s decision, accusing him in a social media post of giving in to pressure from the Democratic Party’s far-left wing.

The issue follows a previous divestment decision by former Comptroller Brad Lander, who withdrew approximately $40 million in Israeli bonds that the city had held since the 1970s. New York State’s pension system, meanwhile, maintains more than $360 million invested in Israel, according to the figures cited in the report.

Levine’s office emphasized that the city’s investment decisions are made to protect the interests of municipal workers and retirees. A spokesperson said the city’s pension systems continue to hold approximately $285.42 million in Israeli public equities and fixed-income investments through their broader portfolios.

Shame on you Comptroller Levine and shame on you Mayor Mandani.

NYC Comptroller Mark Levine:

“Israel bonds have never missed a payment in 70 years, ever, not once.”

“By the way, we’ve had no protesting about our investments in Saudi Arabia, our investments in Pakistan or China, only this one little, tiny sliver.” https://t.co/H7frhOR6bg

— Eyal Yakoby (@EYakoby) October 15, 2026

🇺🇸🇮🇱 Mamdani says New York shouldn’t be buying Israeli government bonds.

His reasoning? NYC doesn’t buy bonds from other sovereign countries, so why make an exception for Israel?

He’s backing Comptroller Mark Levine’s decision not to reinvest.

And here’s the interesting part: Levine had actually promised to invest in Israeli bonds during his campaign.

I wonder why he changed course 🤔

Writer: Lynn

https://t.co/UYpwl8yZFr

— Mario Nawfal (@MarioNawfal) October 14, 2026

A Dublin hotel has reportedly withdrawn a reservation for 70 rooms intended for delegates attending an international conference on combating antisemitism after questioning whether the gathering was linked to the IDF.

Maurice Cohen, chairman of the Jewish Representative Council of Ireland, revealed the incident at a reception hosted by Ireland’s Department of Foreign Affairs to mark the opening of the conference.

The hotel involved was reportedly the Herbert Park Hotel in Dublin’s Ballsbridge neighborhood. According to Cohen, the booking had initially been accepted before being canceled after hotel staff learned more about the purpose of the delegates’ visit and asked whether the event had an IDF connection.

The delegates were in Ireland for the 15th meeting of the Special Envoys and Coordinators Combating Antisemitism (SECCA), held October 12–14 as part of Ireland’s presidency of the Council of the European Union.

Titled “Tackling Antisemitism in the Digital Age,” the conference brought together representatives from the EU’s 27 member states to address the growing challenge of antisemitism, particularly online.

The gathering focused on ways to strengthen cooperation between governments and Jewish communities, the role of technology companies in countering antisemitic content, and the impact of artificial intelligence and emerging technologies on both the spread of antisemitism and efforts to support Jewish life.

Participants included government officials, antisemitism envoys, Jewish community representatives, technology industry figures and civil society organizations.

Cohen’s account has raised questions about why a conference devoted to combating antisemitism would reportedly face difficulties securing accommodation after organizers were asked about a possible connection to the IDF, despite the event’s diplomatic and civilian focus.

Ben Shapiro at the University of Iowa teaches a brainwashed student how to think.

The best rebuttal of the Gaza genocide narrative. Ben Shapiro at the University of Iowa. #Gaza #Hamas #Israel https://t.co/LzBvXVqeOy

— Naive Majority (@NaturalRightsPr) October 14, 2026

The NYS Department of Transportation announced that both directions of Nassau Expressway (Route 878), between Burnside Avenue and the Atlantic Beach Bridge in Lawrence, will close on weeknights from 10 PM to 6 AM for approximately six weeks starting October 12 (this week).

The closures are for asphalt resurfacing, with detours in place. Drivers should plan ahead if driving on those hours.

Former Vice President Kamala Harris is once again criticizing U.S. policy toward Israel, arguing that the Biden-Harris administration should have taken stronger action during the war in Gaza.

Speaking in Seoul, Harris criticized both President Donald Trump’s current administration and her own former administration for their handling of Israel’s military campaign.

“Most recently, the failure to use our leverage to curtail the Israeli government’s horrific conduct in the war in Gaza, both under the current administration, which offers Netanyahu a blank check, and our administration before, where we should have acted sooner and more forcefully,” Harris said.

She also argued that the United States has a “moral obligation to human rights and international law,” saying Washington should use its influence over allied governments to advance those principles.

Her massive defeat in 2024 marked a major setback for Democrats, and her approach to the Middle East was among the issues that generated much debate within the party.

Whether Harris intends to seek the presidency again remains uncertain. But if she does decide to launch another campaign, Republicans welcome the opportunity for a rematch, hoping that the political weaknesses exposed in 2024 will remain just as consequential in a future election. Kamala, you did a fantastic job with the border and the elections, time to head back to the basement.

🤮 KAMALA HARRIS: BIDEN ADMINISTRATION SHOULD HAVE ACTED “SOONER AND MORE FORCEFULLY” AGAINST ISRAEL

Speaking in Seoul, former Vice President Kamala Harris criticized both the Trump administration and her own Biden-Harris administration over Israel’s war in Gaza.

“Most recently, the failure to use our leverage to curtail the Israeli government’s horrific conduct in the war in Gaza, both under the current administration, which offers Netanyahu a blank check, and our administration before, where we should have acted sooner and more forcefully.”

Harris said the United States has a “moral obligation to human rights and international law” and should use its leverage over allies accordingly.

— Mossad Commentary (@MOSSADil) October 14, 2026

The IDF is preparing an extensive military voting operation, with at least 850 polling stations planned across bases and outposts in Israel and beyond its borders to enable soldiers to participate in the upcoming elections.

Voting for military personnel will begin on the evening of October 20, earlier than the regular schedule due to operational requirements. Military polling stations will remain available through October 27.

Approximately one-quarter of the stations will be mobile, allowing election officials to reach soldiers stationed in remote areas and operational zones. The IDF maintains around 40 outposts in Gaza, numerous positions in Lebanon and nine outposts in Syria.

The mobile polling teams will travel between military units according to predetermined schedules, accompanied by an armed officer responsible for security. Ballot boxes will remain locked while being transported to protect the integrity of the voting process.

Soldiers will also have the option of voting at civilian polling stations on October 27. A double-envelope system will be used to prevent anyone from casting more than one ballot.

Approximately 3,000 soldiers, primarily young conscripts, are expected to staff the military polling stations after receiving training from the Central Elections Committee.

The operation will be overseen by Col. Vered Ben Yehuda, who also heads the IDF Civilian Employees Employment Center.

The military says it will maintain strict political neutrality throughout the process, focusing on providing soldiers with access to the ballot while safeguarding election integrity. Political discussions and campaigning will not be part of the military’s role in facilitating the vote.

New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani says he intends to keep Jessica Tisch as NYPD commissioner, rejecting mounting pressure from far-left activists who are demanding her dismissal and the disbanding of a specialized police unit used during certain demonstrations.

“I have no plans to change that,” Mamdani told reporters when asked about Tisch’s future, pointing to her efforts to combat corruption within the NYPD’s leadership and the city’s declining crime rates.

The controversy intensified following anti-Zionist protests targeting Mamdani last week, held on the anniversary of Hamas’s October 7, 2023, terrorist attack on Israel. Calls for Tisch’s removal grew louder the following day after federal ICE agents shot a man in New York City. Although the NYPD was not involved in the shooting, subsequent protests escalated into confrontations between demonstrators and police.

Activists have seized on the events to renew their demands for changes to the city’s approach to policing protests.

Several far-left and anti-Zionist student organizations, along with the Young Democratic Socialists of America, announced a rally for Wednesday at the City College of New York.

In their announcement, the groups called on Mamdani to remove Tisch and dismantle the NYPD’s Strategic Response Group, a specialized unit that can be deployed to protests and other major incidents.

“We DEMAND Zohran Mamdani to use his position of power as mayor to dismantle the SRG and fire Jessica Tisch,” the organizers declared.

Other Democratic Socialists of America groups have also reiterated their opposition to Tisch remaining in the position.

Despite the growing pressure from activists, Mamdani appeared alongside Tisch at a memorial ceremony honoring NYPD officers who died in the line of duty. The mayor described it as a “solemn privilege” to honor 42 fallen officers, including those killed in the September 11 attacks and their aftermath, and offered condolences to their families.

Neither Mamdani nor Tisch addressed the dispute over the commissioner’s position during the ceremony. Mamdani had also canceled an earlier scheduled press availability.

.@nycmayor says he won’t be firing Commissioner Tisch https://t.co/jnN68gbfxz

— katie honan (@katie_honan) October 13, 2026

A growing Orthodox Jewish community in Florida has become the target of a social media firestorm, with online critics accusing Jewish families of refusing to assimilate, questioning their right to establish a religious neighborhood, and spreading unsubstantiated claims that the community will exploit public assistance programs.

The controversy surrounds Lakefront Estates, a major residential development near Lake Okeechobee in Glades County, where more than 80 Orthodox Jewish families from New York have already moved in and opened schools. Dozens of additional families are expected to arrive in the coming weeks.

The project, representing an investment reportedly exceeding $100 million, is designed to provide families with homes, educational institutions, religious facilities and essential services in a community built around their way of life.

Yet footage of the development circulating online has triggered an extraordinary backlash. Rather than focusing on the construction of homes and the opening of schools, many commenters have questioned why Jewish families would want to live together, while others have resorted to familiar antisemitic stereotypes about Jewish money, public benefits and supposed unwillingness to become part of American society.

One social media commenter alleged, without providing evidence, that the families would impose enormous costs on Florida taxpayers through welfare, food assistance, Medicaid and other public benefits, while supposedly working off the books.

Another prominent online figure, Jake Lang, posted that he had been “CHASED AWAY” by guards at what he described as a “HASSIDIC JEWISH ONLY Community,” adding the demand: “Assimilate or GO HOME!!!”

The rhetoric raises an obvious question: Why is a Jewish community choosing to build homes, schools and institutions for its families being treated as a threat?

Building a community, not withdrawing from America

The vision for Lakefront Estates extends far beyond a residential development. Plans call for as many as 1,000 single-family homes and 300 rental units, alongside Shuls, mikvahs, boys’ and girls’ schools, a yeshiva, a kollel, kosher shopping and medical services.

The goal is to create an environment where Orthodox Jewish families can practice their religion, educate their children according to their traditions and establish the communal support systems that are central to their way of life.

Hatzalah South Florida has also begun organizing a local branch, meeting with prospective emergency responders who will serve the growing community.

For Orthodox families, these are not extravagant or sinister ambitions. They are the practical foundations of everyday life: places to daven, schools for children, access to kosher food, religious facilities and neighbors who share the rhythms and responsibilities of observant Jewish life.

Families are also seeking more affordable housing and additional space than may be available in established Orthodox communities in the New York area.

The broader development is intended to accommodate substantial future growth, although its long-term plans will take time to complete.

Since when is choosing your neighbors a crime?

Much of the online outrage appears to rest on the suggestion that a religious community choosing to live among people who share its traditions is inherently suspicious.

But Americans routinely establish neighborhoods and communities around shared interests, cultural backgrounds, religious beliefs and lifestyles. Churches build housing developments, religious schools draw families to particular areas, and communities across the country organize their lives around institutions that reflect their values.

Orthodox Jews are no different.

Living near other Jewish families makes it easier to observe Shabbos, walk to shul, send children to religious schools and maintain a kosher household. It also allows families to rely on neighbors for childcare, meals during difficult times, assistance for the elderly and support during emergencies.

These networks are especially important in a community whose religious practices shape nearly every aspect of daily life.

Wanting those resources nearby does not mean rejecting America. It means exercising the freedom to practice one’s religion and build a life around it.

The demand that Jewish families must “assimilate or go home” is particularly revealing. These are American residents choosing to build homes and institutions in an American state. They are not required to abandon their traditions to prove that they belong.

The welfare accusations: allegations are not evidence

Perhaps the most troubling part of the backlash is the willingness of some commenters to portray the incoming families as prospective welfare cheats before establishing any evidence of wrongdoing.

One widely circulated comment claimed that the community would cost Florida millions through public benefits allegedly collected by large families while their members worked off the books.

No evidence was offered to substantiate those sweeping allegations about the families moving into Lakefront Estates.

There is a legitimate public interest in how taxpayer-funded programs operate. Eligibility rules should be followed, fraud should be investigated when credible evidence exists, and public spending can be scrutinized regardless of who receives the benefits.

But those principles apply to individuals based on their actual circumstances and conduct, not to an entire religious community based on stereotypes.

Having a large family does not establish fraud. Receiving a benefit for which someone is legally eligible is not evidence of wrongdoing. And a family’s Orthodox Jewish identity tells us nothing about whether its members comply with tax laws or public assistance requirements.

Religious freedom applies to Jews, too

Some critics have questioned why a Jewish community should be able to establish a neighborhood centered on its religious needs, sometimes comparing the development to Muslim communities seeking similar arrangements.

The answer should be straightforward: Americans of every faith have the right to worship, establish religious institutions and build communities, subject to applicable laws.

Muslim Americans have those rights. Christians have those rights. Jews have those rights.

There is no contradiction in supporting religious freedom for everyone while recognizing that different faiths have different practices and communal needs.

An Orthodox Jewish development built around synagogues, Jewish schools and kosher services is not, by itself, evidence of hostility toward outsiders. Nor does it establish that residents intend to impose their religious laws on their neighbors.

There is an important distinction between voluntarily organizing one’s own community around religious principles and seeking to compel people outside that community to follow them.

Lakefront Estates’ stated purpose is to provide a place for Orthodox Jewish families to live and practice their faith. Claims about broader political or religious ambitions require evidence, not assumptions based on the community’s identity.

What really seems to bother some of the internet’s loudest critics?

The intensity of the response is striking. A community is building houses, opening schools and organizing emergency services, yet some of the loudest reactions are demands that its residents leave the country or accusations that they are exploiting the public.

For some commenters, the hostility is openly antisemitic. For others, the development may challenge their assumptions about what an American neighborhood should look like or who is entitled to create one.

It is also worth recognizing what a functioning community can offer: close relationships, shared traditions, multigenerational support and a sense of responsibility for one’s neighbors.

Orthodox Jewish communities often organize extensive networks of charitable assistance, volunteer emergency response, hospitality and mutual aid. These institutions are not unique to Jews, but they are an important part of how many observant Jewish neighborhoods function.

There is no need to romanticize any community or suggest that every resident is perfect. No neighborhood is. The point is that the existence of a close-knit religious community should not automatically be treated as evidence of wrongdoing.

People who have little interest in religious life are free to choose a different environment. People who value a tightly connected community should have the same freedom.

A new community should not have to apologize for being Jewish

Lakefront Estates is still in its early stages. Families are arriving, schools are opening, and the work of building the institutions needed to support a growing population is beginning.

The development can be evaluated on its merits, its compliance with local laws, its economic impact and its relationship with the surrounding area. Those are fair questions for residents and public officials to examine.

But a different standard is being applied in much of the online commentary: Jewish families are being asked to justify why they want to live among other Jews in the first place.

That is not a reasonable demand.

America’s promise of religious liberty means people do not have to erase their identities to earn a place in society. Jewish families can be proudly Orthodox and proudly American at the same time.

They can build synagogues, educate their children in Jewish schools, establish kosher businesses and create a neighborhood shaped by their traditions without being accused of plotting against the country.

A community of families investing in homes, schools and local services should be judged by what it actually does, not by the prejudices others project onto it.

If the sight of Jewish families building a future together provokes such hostility, this may reveal why these families want their own community.

🇺🇸✡️ WATCH: Historic Milestone in Florida as Over 80 Orthodox Jewish Families Move Into New $100 Million-Plus Community and Schools Open

More than 80 families from New York have moved into Lakefront Estates, where schools have now opened. Dozens more families are expected in the coming weeks, following reported investment of hundreds of millions of dollars in the project.

Located in Glades County near Lake Okeechobee, Lakefront is a purpose-built residential community. The broader development plan calls for up to 1,000 single-family homes and 300 rental units.

The vision goes beyond housing: plans include synagogues, mikvahs, boys’ and girls’ schools, a yeshiva, a kollel, kosher shopping and medical services. Developers are targeting families seeking more space and an alternative to soaring housing costs in established Orthodox neighborhoods.

Hatzalah South Florida has also begun organizing a local branch, meeting with prospective responders who will serve Lakefront. With families arriving and classrooms opening, the focus now shifts from construction to building the services a growing community needs.

— Jewish Breaking News (@JBreakingNews) October 12, 2026

I was just CHASED AWAY by guards at new HASSIDIC JEWISH ONLY Community in Okeechobee Florida for exposing the new $100,000,00+ Compound!!!! ✡️

Assimilate or GO HOME!!! https://t.co/L5DVf4bNOc

— Jake Lang – January 6 Political Prisoner 🇺🇸 (@JakeLang) October 13, 2026

A Photo of young Jake Lang kissing the Kotel (below), how quickly we forget.

New York Gov. Kathy Hochul and Republican challenger Bruce Blakeman traded sharp accusations over crime, immigration, spending and President Donald Trump during Tuesday night’s gubernatorial debate, with both candidates seeking to draw a clear contrast ahead of Election Day.

The exchanges grew particularly pointed when the candidates challenged each other’s records on public safety and the use of taxpayer dollars, producing several memorable back-and-forth moments.

Crime and policing

Hochul challenged Blakeman over taking credit for declining crime rates in Nassau County, arguing that the downward trend began under his Democratic predecessor.

“I can’t believe you just took credit for what the Democratic predecessor in your county did — that the crime started going down,” Hochul said.

Blakeman responded with a question about the timing: “Wasn’t that during COVID?”

Immigration spending and law enforcement

Blakeman attacked Hochul’s spending priorities, contrasting the billions of dollars she says her administration has devoted to law enforcement with spending on services for undocumented immigrants.

“You say you spent $4 billion on law enforcement? Well, you spent $8 billion on illegal immigrants and gave them more benefits than New Yorkers get,” Blakeman said.

He also accused Hochul of allowing criminals to enter New York while restricting cooperation between local law enforcement and federal immigration authorities.

“You have invited criminals to come into our state and prey on our communities, and now you won’t let local law enforcement cooperate with ICE,” Blakeman said, arguing that the state’s policies fail to adequately distinguish between immigrants with criminal records and other undocumented immigrants.

Trump and personal attacks

The candidates also clashed over their political affiliations. When Hochul questioned Blakeman about what he considers great about Trump, the Republican said he disagrees with the president on several issues.

Blakeman noted that Trump had endorsed him, while adding that he had also received support from some liberal Democrats. Hochul responded sarcastically: “You got two votes, good for you.”

Hochul also accused Blakeman of associating with white supremacists. Blakeman pushed back by citing past comments by Hochul about Black people, challenging her to defend her own record.

The race ahead

With Election Day approaching on November 3, the debate offered both candidates an opportunity to make their case to voters on affordability, public safety and the direction of New York.

Blakeman, the Nassau County executive, has campaigned on cutting income taxes and utility costs, arguing that Hochul’s policies have contributed to rising expenses. Hochul has highlighted expanded childcare assistance and energy rebate programs while criticizing Blakeman over his position on Trump’s international trade tariffs.

A Marist University poll released last week showed Hochul leading Blakeman 53% to 42%, with 5% undecided. The figures suggest that affordability and the candidates’ competing records will remain central issues as the campaign enters its final stretch.

New York’s 10-day early voting period is scheduled to begin October 24.

Full Debate:

Highlights:

Hershy Weinberger met with Troi, the FedEx driver who went viral for playing Hasidic music while delivering packages throughout Lakewood, bringing smiles and excitement to Jewish children along his route.

Hershy thanked Troi for spreading joy and positivity throughout the community, and the two even joined together to sing Hershy’s song “RTVT”!

🚨 Breaking Update: Hershy Weinberger meets Troi, the viral FedEx driver in Lakewood that enjoys listening to Hasidic music as he drives around the Orthodox Jewish neighborhood delivering packages.

And yes, they sing Hershy’s song RTVT together.

What a beautiful and heartwarming story. 💙

— Frum TikTok (@FrumTikTok) October 13, 2026

New York Knicks owner James Dolan is set to host a high-dollar fundraising event for Republican gubernatorial candidate Bruce Blakeman at Madison Square Garden on Thursday, according to the New York Post.

The event will be held ahead of the Knicks’ preseason matchup against the Toronto Raptors. Dolan will host the gathering alongside Scott Alper, president and CEO of the Witkoff Group, and Gregg Hymowitz, chairman of EnTrust Global.

According to the event invitation, tickets begin at $10,000, with higher contribution levels of $25,000 for the “friend” tier and $50,000 for the “patriot” tier.

Blakeman, who currently trails Democratic Gov. Kathy Hochul by approximately 9 to 11 percentage points in recent polls, has received significant financial backing from Dolan and groups aligned with Republican candidates.

Last month, a super PAC that Dolan is helping fund spent $250,000 on a billboard campaign criticizing Hochul’s leadership and blaming her policies for driving residents out of New York. The advertisements featured the message, “You are Now Leaving NY (Like Everyone Else),” alongside an appeal to vote for Blakeman.

The Strong and Safe New York PAC has also launched spending efforts on behalf of Republican attorney general candidate Saritha Komatireddy, who is challenging Democratic incumbent Letitia James. The group is planning a seven-figure advertising campaign targeting Long Island and the northern suburbs, including Westchester and Rockland counties.

Dolan has also had a public disagreement with New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani over playoff watch parties held outside Madison Square Garden.

Tensions were evident during a City Hall ceremony following the Knicks’ championship parade in Manhattan. After Mamdani reflected on the team’s history and its struggles over the years, Dolan responded with a pointed remark about longtime fans.

“I don’t need your vote, I don’t need to quote to you, right, about what happened here because if you’re real Knicks fans, you know it already,” Dolan said.

Dolan’s latest fundraiser adds to his growing involvement in New York’s Republican political efforts as the gubernatorial race and other statewide contests approach.

Elazar Yair Wilensky, a 14 year old ninth-grade student and the youngest of five siblings, was tragically killed when an unexploded Hezbollah cluster munition detonated during a school hike in northern Israel.

Elazar was remembered as a vibrant, joyful and exceptionally intelligent boy who brought happiness to those around him. His life was cut short far too soon, leaving behind a grieving family, friends and school community.

The tragedy highlights the ongoing danger posed by unexploded munitions left behind in areas affected by the fighting along Israel’s northern border.

May Elazar’s memory be a blessing, and may his family find comfort during this heartbreaking time.

23 young students and their teacher were also injured in the explosion, may they have a speedy recovery.

Besuros Tovos.

“Torn,” a documentary exploring the widespread campaign to display Israeli hostage posters across New York City following the October 7, 2023, Hamas massacre, has received a New York Emmy Award in the cultural documentary category.

Israeli filmmaker Nimrod Shapira directed the film, which was shot during the first three months of the war. Through interviews with 10 New York residents, the documentary examines the heated disputes that erupted as posters featuring hostages were put up, defaced and torn down across the city.

What began as an effort to raise awareness about the hostages became a flashpoint in New York’s broader political and social divisions, with the posters serving as a symbol in competing narratives surrounding the war.

Accepting the recognition, Shapira thanked the academy and explained that the project grew out of his own experience witnessing hostage posters being ripped down in the city he calls home.

“As the paper was torn, so was the social fabric of the city I call home,” Shapira said.

He described the documentary as an exploration of issues extending beyond the posters themselves, including freedom of speech, cancel culture, ideological echo chambers and the consequences of shutting down opposing voices instead of engaging in dialogue.

Shapira said he wanted to capture not only the physical destruction of the posters but also the damage he believes the controversy inflicted on relationships and community life throughout the city.

The award was presented at the 69th annual New York Emmy Awards, organized by the New York chapter of the National Academy of Television Arts and Sciences. The ceremony recognizes excellence in television and media across New York State, as well as parts of New Jersey and Connecticut.

White House border czar Tom Homan announced plans to increase Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) deployments in sanctuary cities, including New York City, following an incident in which federal officers shot and wounded a 28-year-old undocumented immigrant on Thursday.

Speaking on Fox Business, Homan defended the Trump administration’s immigration enforcement strategy, pointing to the injured man’s reported criminal history as he argued for expanding federal operations.

“We are gonna flood the zone of sanctuary cities,” Homan said, without specifying when or where additional deployments would take place.

He also directed a warning toward New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani, who has called for ICE to leave the city.

“If he wants to double down and say he wants ICE out of New York? Well, I’m going to triple down — we’ll send more resources there,” Homan said.

The remarks signal the administration’s intention to intensify immigration enforcement in cities whose policies limit cooperation with federal immigration authorities.

Since President Donald Trump returned to office in 2025, his administration has carried out expanded ICE operations in several major Democratic-led cities, including Minneapolis and Chicago, with New York City among the latest targets.

Homan’s comments set the stage for a continued confrontation between the Trump administration and local officials over federal immigration enforcement and the role of sanctuary-city policies.

Tom Homan: "[Mamdani] wants to double down and say he wants ICE out of New York? Well I’m going to triple down—we’ll send more resources there." https://t.co/w7yilYkfbl

— The Post Millennial (@TPostMillennial) October 12, 2026

Agudath Israel of America is pleased to announce the appointment of Rabbi Ephraim Gurell as Associate Director of New York Government Relations.

Rabbi Gurell joined Agudath Israel in 2023 and has since held several important roles within the organization, focusing on legislative advocacy, government relations, community engagement, and get out the vote efforts. In those roles, Rabbi Gurell has worked closely with elected officials and community leaders to advance Agudath Israel’s priorities, while also helping develop new approaches to grassroots and voter engagement, including initiatives to make voting more accessible to members of the community.

“Rabbi Gurell has brought tremendous energy, passion, and initiative to our work,” said Rabbi Yeruchim Silber, Director of New York Government Relations. “Whether working with elected officials, engaging our communities, or developing new approaches to our advocacy efforts, he has consistently demonstrated an ability to take an idea and turn it into action. I look forward to continuing to work with him in this expanded role.”

In his new role, Rabbi Gurell will work alongside Rabbi Silber to further strengthen Agudath Israel’s government relations efforts and relationships throughout New York State whether in Albany, City Hall or other local governments. He will continue to expand the organization’s advocacy on behalf of the needs and priorities of the Orthodox Jewish community.

Rabbi Gurell received his rabbinic ordination from Yeshivas Ohr Hachaim in Queens, and holds a Bachelor’s degree in Political Science from Touro University, where he received the Dr. Kalman Singer Award for Excellence in Political Science. He is currently an MBA candidate at Yeshiva University’s Sy Syms School of Business.

“As the Agudah continues expanding our advocacy to meet the growing needs of our communities we are thrilled to have Rabbi Gurell in an expanded role,” said Agudah COO Rabbi Avi Schnall. “His dedication and initiative have made a real impact on our work and we are pleased to recognize his contributions with this appointment and are confident that he will accomplish much in this new role.”

A touching message shared with 5 Towns Central highlights the dedication of a local crossing guard who showed up for the children of our community, even on a day when she could have stayed home.

Her heartfelt response is a beautiful reminder of the people who care for our children every day, often without recognition.

5TC received the following message:

“This morning, as the crossing guard on Beach 9th Street helped me cross with two children in my double stroller, I asked her, “Don’t you have off for Columbus Day?”

Her answer brought tears to my eyes.

“But MY children still have school today!”

She was talking about OUR Jewish children! ❤️

On a day she could have stayed home, she STILL showed up because “HER children” needed her!

To her, they’re not just children crossing the street. They’re HER children, and she cares about every single one of them! ❤️

Sometimes the most beautiful hearts belong to the people quietly looking out for our children every single day.

Our community is truly blessed to have you! THANK YOU from the bottom of our hearts! ❤️”

New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani has ordered a comprehensive review of NYPD use-of-force practices, marking the first such examination in a decade, while allocating an additional $2.6 million to strengthen independent police oversight.

The review will be conducted by the NYPD Inspector General’s Office, which operates under the city’s Department of Investigation. The office is led by Christina Soto, who was appointed by DOI Commissioner Nadia Shihata, a Mamdani appointee.

The announcement comes amid controversy surrounding the retirement of NYPD Officer Salvatore Alongi last Thursday, before he could face a departmental disciplinary trial over the March 2024 fatal shooting of Win Rosario, a 19-year-old Queens resident with mental illness.

Police were dispatched to Rosario’s Ozone Park home following a 911 call. Body camera footage shows Rosario approaching officers with scissors as family members pleaded with police not to shoot. Officers had reportedly deployed Tasers twice before Rosario charged at them. Alongi and Officer Matthew Cianfrocco then fired their weapons. Rosario later died at a hospital.

In December, New York Attorney General Letitia James declined to pursue criminal charges against the officers, although the NYPD could still pursue internal disciplinary action.

Mamdani said the new review is intended to strengthen accountability while ensuring officers receive appropriate training and guidance in the use of force. He emphasized that interactions between government officials and residents must meet the highest standards of accountability and respect.

The initiative has drawn criticism from police leadership. Scott Munro, president of the Detectives’ Endowment Association, accused the mayor of supporting what he characterized as biased, anti-police oversight while weakening NYPD operations.

Munro warned that the administration’s approach could damage morale, push experienced detectives out of the department and make it harder to recruit new officers, potentially affecting public safety.

The additional funding will triple the Inspector General’s current staffing. The office previously employed nearly 40 people but was reduced to just three employees last year, prompting concerns from government watchdogs about its ability to carry out meaningful oversight.

The review is expected to examine how the NYPD uses force, with the broader debate centering on police accountability, officer training and the potential impact of expanded oversight on law enforcement operations.

**By: Rabbi Shay Tahan
**

After recent events involving a Flydubai airplane, many people have become more nervous about getting on an airplane. Let’s examine a question that touches all of us: When is fear appropriate, and when does it become a problem?

The Gemara in Berachot (60a) relates that Rabbi Yishmael encountered a man who was afraid and told him, “You are a sinner.” His proof was the pasuk, “פחדו בציון חטאים”—“The sinners in Zion are afraid” (Yeshayahu 33:14).

The man challenged him with another pasuk in Mishlei: “אשרי אדם מפחד תמיד”—“Praiseworthy is the person who is always afraid” (Mishlei 28:14). So which is it? Is fear a virtue or a failing?

Rabbi Yishmael answered that the latter pasuk refers to divrei Torah. Rashi explains that a person must constantly be concerned that he may forget what he has learned.

Forgetting Torah is a serious matter. The Mishnah in Avot teaches that one who forgets his learning through neglect is held accountable, based on the pasuk, “Only beware for yourself and greatly guard your soul, lest you forget the things that your eyes saw” (Devarim 4:9).

The Vilna Gaon offers a slightly different explanation: a person should always be concerned that perhaps he has not accomplished enough in Torah.

These are examples of fear directed toward spiritual matters. But what about ordinary physical dangers? Should a person constantly worry about getting into an accident, being attacked, or boarding an airplane?

There is a distinction between appropriate caution and unfounded anxiety. The fact that a person can imagine something terrible happening does not mean he must live in fear of it. The question is whether the fear serves a constructive purpose or merely causes unnecessary worry.

A Gemara That Seems to Say the Opposite

There is, however, another Gemara that appears to teach the opposite.

In Gittin (55b), while discussing the events surrounding the destruction of the Beit Hamikdash and other tragedies, Rabbi Yochanan applies the pasuk “אשרי אדם מפחד תמיד”—“Praiseworthy is the person who is always afraid”—to people who failed to anticipate danger. Because of Kamtza and Bar Kamtza, Yerushalayim was destroyed; because of a rooster and a hen, Tur Malka was destroyed; and because of the shaft of a carriage, Beitar was destroyed.

These tragedies illustrate the danger of becoming so secure in one’s circumstances that one fails to recognize the consequences of one’s actions.

Tosafot in Gittin raises the apparent contradiction: In Berachot, the Gemara seems to teach that fear belongs in spiritual matters, while in Gittin, it appears to praise fear of physical danger. How can both be true?

Tosafot explains that the people involved had relied on their prosperity and tranquility: “בטחו ברוב טובתם ושלוותם”—they trusted in their great prosperity and tranquility. They felt secure and failed to consider the danger their actions could bring upon them.

The lesson is that there is no fundamental difference between spiritual and physical dangers. When a genuine danger exists, a person must take it seriously and act accordingly. But when the danger is remote and unlikely, he should not allow it to dominate his life.

The people involved in these tragedies had become so confident in their circumstances that they failed to recognize the consequences of their actions. They should have considered the calamities their behavior might bring upon themselves.

Tosafot then makes a crucial distinction: “ולא דמי לאדם המתפחד בחינם”—this is not comparable to a person who is afraid for no reason.

That distinction lies at the heart of the discussion. There is a difference between recognizing a genuine danger and becoming consumed by possibilities that have little basis in reality.

Harlem at Night Versus a Flight

Let’s bring this distinction into everyday life.

If you go to a place that is genuinely dangerous, such as a neighborhood where there is a real risk of crime, you have to be on the lookout and take reasonable precautions to keep yourself safe.

When a danger is real, caution is sensible. A person should avoid unnecessary risks and use good judgment.

On the contrary, walking through a safe neighborhood while constantly imagining that someone will attack you is a different matter. The same applies to boarding an airplane and becoming consumed by the thought that the pilot might hijack it.

A pilot undergoes extensive training and works hard to reach a professional position. The possibility of a pilot deliberately endangering the passengers is extremely remote. To live in constant fear of such a scenario is not the same as taking reasonable precautions.

The point is not that danger never exists. Rather, we must distinguish between a risk that calls for practical action and a remote possibility that only feeds anxiety. We cannot eliminate every risk from life, and attempting to do so can prevent us from living normally.

When Fear Becomes Dangerous

There is another important point to consider, based on Rabbi Yosef Nachmias’s commentary on Mishlei, (printed in Mikraot Gedolot). Fear can be useful before danger arises because it motivates a person to take precautions. But when a crisis is already unfolding, panic can prevent a person from responding effectively.

If something has already happened and an airplane has been hijacked and is in immediate danger, giving in to panic will not help. Fear can overwhelm a person and prevent him from thinking clearly. At such a moment, he must try to remain calm and act as the circumstances require.

The distinction is between fear that prepares a person to respond and panic that overwhelms his ability to do so. In an emergency, we need to remain as calm as possible, follow appropriate instructions, and take whatever reasonable action the circumstances permit.

Three Levels of Fear

Bringing these sources together, we can distinguish between three situations.

First, when a danger is remote and unlikely, we should not allow the possibility to dominate our lives. Driving a car carries risks, too, yet we drive every day. We take reasonable precautions, hope and pray that nothing happens, and continue with our lives.

Second, when a danger is real, we must recognize it and act accordingly. We should avoid dangerous places and reckless behavior, and we should not provoke confrontations in the street without considering the consequences.

Third, when a crisis is already unfolding, we must not allow fear to paralyze us. We should remain calm enough to respond sensibly and take the appropriate steps to protect ourselves and others.

The lesson is not that a Jew should never feel afraid. Fear can protect us, alert us to danger, and push us to take responsibility. But fear must be guided by judgment. We should take real dangers seriously without allowing imagined dangers to control our lives. And when circumstances demand action, we must strive to respond with a clear mind rather than surrender to panic.

It’s that time of year, folks!

The Nikolsburger Rebbe of Woodbourne teaching his cheder Talmidim hos world famous sung in honor of Pashas Noach!

מיט דעם האט זיך עס עס אנגעהויבן https://t.co/DvIs57Mzfr

— Hasidic (@hasidic_1) October 12, 2026

Cedarhurst and Lawrence will not be enforcing parking meters today in observance of Columbus Day.

Please note that all other parking regulations including tickets for expired registration and other violations will remain in effect as usual.

One person was killed, reportedly a 15-year-old, and 19 others injured in an explosion involving suspected unexploded ordnance during a hike by students and teachers from Yeshivat Ma’alot (Hesder Yeshiva) in northern Israel. According to initial reports by security soldiers at the scene, one of the students reportedly placed a piece of military ordnance in his backpack. The device later exploded while the students were walking.

The blast occurred near the Pe’er observation point on Ramim Ridge, close to the Lebanese border, while the group was hiking in the area.

According to updated reports, two of the wounded are in serious condition and three are moderately injured. The remaining victims sustained lighter injuries.

Magen David Adom emergency crews treated the wounded at the scene and coordinated their evacuation to hospitals. Police bomb-disposal specialists were also dispatched to investigate the blast and check for additional unexploded ordnance.

The IDF deployed Yahalom combat engineering troops to search the area, alongside military medical teams and three Israeli Air Force helicopters to assist with evacuating casualties.

A devastating reminder: if you find military debris or suspicious ordnance, do not touch it. Move away and alert authorities immediately.

The circumstances surrounding the explosion remain under investigation. Besuros Tovos, Yeshuos and Nechamos.

20 hikers injured in EXPLOSION near Israel-Lebanon border — N12

Israeli ambulance services reported 1 dead, and multiple serious injuries at Ramim Ridge, as helicopters evacuate the wounded

The IDF says it is investigating the circumstances of the blast https://t.co/2KadwiqUjH

— RT (@RT_com) October 12, 2026

The Ninja Turtles strike again!

New York City police are investigating another reported entry into the city’s underground sewer system after three men were spotted climbing into a manhole in Manhattan early Sunday morning.

The latest incident occurred shortly before 1 a.m. on West 141st Street, between Amsterdam and Broadway avenues, in Hamilton Heights. Officers responding to the scene found that the individuals had already disappeared. Police said it was the first reported incident of its kind in that neighborhood.

The sighting follows a similar episode Friday on the Upper East Side, where five people — four men and one woman — were seen climbing out of a manhole on East 82nd Street shortly after 2 a.m. The group reportedly left in a black SUV, and investigators discovered shovels and other equipment at the location.

The incidents come weeks after two individuals were arrested for entering a manhole on East 61st Street during the United Nations General Assembly, a period when security measures throughout the city were heightened.

Officials with the city’s Department of Environmental Protection believe some individuals may be venturing into the sewer network in search of valuables and scrap metal, including items carried underground by stormwater.

Authorities are continuing to investigate the recent cases and are working to identify the individuals involved.

BREAKING: New report of Sewer / Manhole people.

NYPD, firefighters, and EMS responded early Sunday to a report of people entering a manhole on W. 141st Street in Hamilton Heights.

A witness told police three men went underground on W. 141st and Amsterdam just before 1 a.m.

Investigation continues.

Video by Dakota Santiago | Licensing @FreedomNTV [email protected]

— Oliya Scootercaster 🛴 (@ScooterCasterNY) October 11, 2026

WhatsApp is developing a new tool that will allow users to write messages in advance and have them sent automatically at a chosen time, eliminating the need to remember to send them later.

The feature is currently being tested by a limited number of Android beta users, following several months of development. It is designed to work with regular chats and group conversations, supporting text messages as well as links, photos and videos. Messages will remain protected by WhatsApp’s end-to-end encryption.

To schedule a message, users enter their message as usual and then press and hold the send button to select a delivery time. Once scheduled, the message will be sent automatically at the designated time, even if WhatsApp is closed or the device is offline.

Users will reportedly be able to schedule messages from as little as 10 minutes ahead to as far as two weeks in advance, offering flexibility for reminders, birthday greetings and other messages that should arrive at a particular time.

A dedicated section within the chat information screen will let users review upcoming messages and make changes or delete them before they are sent. Recipients will not be notified if a scheduled message is deleted, nor will they know that it had been scheduled in the first place.

The feature will also support group chats, with one important restriction: only people who were members of the group when the message was scheduled will receive it. Anyone who joins the group afterward will not receive that previously scheduled message.

For now, access remains limited to selected beta testers. WhatsApp is expected to expand testing in the coming weeks, although a general release date has not been confirmed.

Rabbi Doniel Katz on Let’s Get Real with Coach Menachem, Sunday October 11th.

Did we really choose our lives—including the pain and suffering?

Join Rabbi Doniel Katz and Coach Menachem for a meaningful conversation about “soul contracts,” whether Torah supports this idea, and where emunah, bitachon, free choice, and hishtadlus fit in.

How do we accept what we cannot control while taking responsibility for what we can change? How can faith help us face our pain without avoiding our feelings? And how do we find connection, purpose, and joy while challenges remain?

A FedEx driver in Lakewood is going viral after video surfaced of him playing Hasidic music while making his deliveries, all for one simple reason: to put a smile on the faces of the Jewish children along his route.

The non-Jewish driver took the time to learn songs by Hershy Weinberger and other Hasidic artists, bringing a little extra joy to the children he encounters each day.

“The music is so positive. How can you not like it?” he said.

Now, the heartwarming story has reached Hershy Weinberger himself. After seeing the viral video, the singer is searching for the FedEx driver, hoping to meet him and perform a duet together.

What started as one delivery driver’s thoughtful gesture has turned into a feel-good moment that is bringing smiles to people well beyond his usual route.

Viral Clip of Driver:

Yidden — and non-Yidden — shreien RTVT! https://t.co/0LoEyrfTJ2

— Hershy Weinberger (@hershywein) October 9, 2026

Hershy Weinberger Searching For Driver:

[

View this post on Instagram

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A post shared by Hershy Weinberger | הערשי וויינבערגער (@hershyweinberger)

New York City’s plan to generate more than $500 million annually from a new tax on luxury second homes is facing growing uncertainty, with thousands of property owners already receiving exemptions and multiple lawsuits challenging the policy.

Mayor Zohran Mamdani and Gov. Kathy Hochul announced the levy targeting high-value properties used as secondary residences, including co-ops valued above $1 million and houses worth more than $5 million.

According to the city Department of Finance, approximately 10,000 exemption applications had been submitted as of Friday morning, with 5,700 approved. Additional requests and appeals are continuing to come in, raising questions about how much revenue the measure will ultimately produce.

Ben Williams, an attorney representing plaintiffs challenging the tax, questioned whether the city’s original revenue forecast was realistic. He noted that exemptions for primary residences, along with disputes over property valuations, could substantially reduce the amount collected.

The rollout has also encountered legal obstacles. The deadline to seek exemptions has been postponed repeatedly and was most recently extended from October 6 to October 13 following a lawsuit brought by Randy Mastro, a former deputy mayor under Eric Adams.

In the case, Staten Island Justice Wayne Ozzi ruled that the city must restart the implementation process after notifying approximately 17,000 potentially affected homeowners prematurely. The city now estimates that between 10,000 and 13,000 properties could be subject to the tax.

The Mamdani administration appealed the ruling and obtained a stay, allowing the tax process to move forward while the legal dispute continues. Real-estate attorney Joshua Wurtzel warned that if the court’s ruling ultimately stands, it could jeopardize the entire program.

Two additional lawsuits challenging the measure on the grounds that it discriminates against out-of-state property owners are also pending in Long Island court.

Despite the mounting legal challenges and exemption approvals, the Department of Finance continues to stand by its projection of more than $500 million in annual revenue. City officials argue that owners of luxury second homes should contribute more toward funding public services, including education and public safety.

The department has dismissed the lawsuits as without merit and says it intends to enforce the tax in a fair, efficient and lawful manner. Property owners seeking exemptions have until October 13 under the latest extension.

New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani announced Sunday that his administration will review an incident in which an ICE agent shot a Dominican national with a criminal record, as well as the NYPD’s handling of the situation.

Speaking on MS NOW, Mamdani renewed his demand that Immigration and Customs Enforcement end its operations in New York City, again accusing the federal agency of operating in a manner that threatens public safety.

“The city is still dealing with having been terrorized by a rogue federal agency,” Mamdani said, reiterating his previous description of ICE as “rotten to its core.”

The controversy centers on the shooting of Oscar Belgal, 28, who was struck in the neck while inside a moving vehicle with his 5-year-old son in the backseat. Mamdani said he had urged President Donald Trump and his administration to withdraw federal immigration agents following the incident.

Belgal’s criminal history has also drawn attention. Authorities have said he allegedly terrorized former neighbors with a machete and had suspected connections to the violent Trinitarios gang. His record includes a 2023 conviction for grand larceny robbery and an August 2025 arrest on allegations of selling fentanyl, cocaine and heroin.

Despite those allegations and his criminal history, Mamdani focused on the circumstances of the shooting, emphasizing Belgal’s injuries and the emotional impact on his young son. He questioned why agents wearing construction-style vests opened fire on a moving vehicle in broad daylight, comparing the incident to a mass shooting and arguing that NYPD officers would not have acted similarly, particularly with a young child in the car.

Mamdani also revealed that a roughly two-hour discussion with Trump and Homeland Security Secretary Markwayne Mullin failed to resolve the dispute. Further talks are expected, although Mullin has maintained that ICE agents acted appropriately.

The mayor also defended his decision not to have city authorities detain Belgal, saying there was no arrest warrant authorizing such action.

Meanwhile, Mamdani said his administration would examine the broader events surrounding the shooting, including the NYPD’s response, demonstrations that followed and ICE’s reported use of a Target parking lot as an operational staging area. The review will cover the 24-hour period surrounding the incident.

“We will use every tool at our disposal to keep New York safe,” Mamdani said.

The mayor further claimed that approximately 70% of migrants detained by ICE have no criminal records, accusing the agency of separating families through its enforcement operations.

“Trusting ICE’s word is a fool’s errand. It’s rinse and repeat,” he said, again calling for federal immigration enforcement operations in New York City to end, arguing that their presence makes the city less safe.

🎙Yaakov Shwekey joined the Erev Shabbos kumzits this week at DRS! #GOAT https://t.co/SXtHJeo516

— 5TownsCentral (@5TownsCentral) October 11, 2026

A Hatzolah volunteer shares his experience of a car accident in Toms River, where a patient repeatedly refused medical help from Orthodox Jewish first responders, insisting he wanted “real 911.”

Even after paramedics arrived, he continued refusing help because they were Jewish. It is unbelievable how people are willing to turn down medical care in an emergency in account of religion.

Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman stated at a Trump rally over the weekend, that on Day 1 January 1, 2027 he will sign an executive order declaring New York is no longer a sanctuary state.

🚨Bruce Blakeman, challenging Kathy Hochul for New York Governor, just pledged that on Day 1 January 1, 2027 he will sign an executive order declaring New York is NO LONGER a sanctuary state.

Vote for Bruce to save New York. https://t.co/NDxCrcP5lt

— J (@JayTC53) October 9, 2026

The United States has imposed sanctions targeting the International Criminal Court (ICC), escalating its opposition to the international tribunal over its legal actions against Israeli officials.

Secretary of State Marco Rubio said the measures would prohibit transactions with the court, aiming to restrict its access to financial resources and limit its ability to carry out its work.

Secretary Rubio: “Either the ICC will end its threats, or we will end the ICC. And we expect our allies, many of whom are part of the ICC, and that rely on American service members for their defense, to rein in this rogue court. If they do not, the United States will continue its campaign to dismantle the ICC, piece by piece, until Americans are threatened no longer.”

The move comes amid longstanding American objections to the ICC’s decision to issue arrest warrants for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and other Israeli officials. The warrants allege crimes including the use of starvation as a method of warfare and intentionally directing attacks against civilians.

Washington has consistently challenged the court’s jurisdiction over citizens of countries that are not parties to the Rome Statute, the treaty establishing the ICC, arguing that the tribunal lacks authority over American personnel and certain officials from allied nations.

Today, the Trump Administration is sanctioning the ICC.

This action should encourage our Allies within the Court to work for solutions to end this threat to U.S. sovereignty forever. https://t.co/D86dCqLUaZ

— Secretary Marco Rubio (@SecRubio) October 9, 2026

Agudath Israel of America applauds Governor Kathy Hochul for announcing on Friday afternoon that, after reviewing the new regulations, New York State will opt in to the Federal Scholarship Tax Credit.

This decision will, in the governor’s words, “bring millions of additional dollars to New York students and families without taking a single dollar from public schools or our state or local budgets.”

Governor Hochul’s announcement follows her promise to a group of Jewish leaders back in May that New York would participate in the tax credit if it benefited all students, including those attending public schools. Since that meeting, which took place in the office of Agudah chairman Sol Werdiger, Governor Hochul has only reiterated her view that she would not leave money on the table that can help New York students, despite political pressure from opponents.

“Opting in is good for all New Yorkers. We thank Governor Hochul for putting students before politics.” said Agudath Israel’s chairman of the board, Mr. Sol Werdiger. “We now urge the remaining governors to follow her lead.”

“Agudah was at the forefront of the successful advocacy effort that led to the passage of the Federal Scholarship Tax Credit and worked with allies in New York to make it a reality for families in our state.” said Rabbi Yeruchim Silber, Agudah’s Director of NY Government Relations. “Agudah extends its sincere appreciation to the NYS Catholic Conference, Teach NYS, Invest in Education, and the tens of thousands of parents and supporters who spoke out in support of this game-changing policy.

The Federal Scholarship Tax Credit (FSTC) allows taxpayers to contribute up to $1,700 ($3,400 for a married couple filing jointly) to a scholarship granting organization and receive a dollar-for-dollar federal tax credit. Scholarships can be used for tutoring, special needs services, and tuition, among many allowable uses. To learn more, go to agudah.org/FSTC.

Gut Vuch, Gut Chodesh & Shavuah Tov to all1

Lebanese authorities stopped a truck transporting roughly 800 kilograms of explosives from the Baalbek area toward Beirut. The shipment allegedly included nails and metal balls, and two suspected Hezbollah members were detained for questioning.

According to Lebanese media reports, the drivers told investigators that a senior Hezbollah operative known as Sayyed Sajjad had directed them to transport the materials to another high-ranking group member in Beirut’s Dahiyeh neighborhood. The investigation remains ongoing as authorities work to determine who else may have been involved.

Reports emerged of a major Houthi attack on King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, on Saturday, with Terminal 3 struck, triggering an evacuation and leaving several people injured.

Accounts of the casualties have differed. The Financial Times, citing Saudi sources, reported that at least 50 people were hospitalized, while The New York Times reported 12 fatalities and 50 injuries. Saudi aviation authorities reportedly confirmed that the airport came under attack on October 10. Airport operations were temporarily halted as officials examined the damage.

The Wall Street Journal reported that Saudi officials are increasingly worried that further attacks could undermine the kingdom’s economic ambitions, deter tourists and business travelers, and strain its supply of missile interceptors. This will hopefully be the end of the Houthi regime once and for all, as multiple countries will likely join in the response attack.

#MedioOriente Un nuevo video muestra el momento exacto, en el que un dron de la guerrilla de los Huties, impacta en el avión comercial de línea aérea de bandera, en el Aeropuerto Internacional Rey Khalid en Riad, en el Reino de Arabia Saudita. https://t.co/rueDg5vdTM

— Klaveec (@klaveec) October 10, 2026

A Saudi military spokesman announced an impact in the vicinity of King Fahd International Airport in Dammam, eastern Saudi Arabia.

Meanwhile, officials told The New York Times that at least 12 people were killed and 50 injured in today’s Houthi attack on the airport in Riyadh. https://t.co/OXtPnoZRGn

— Eli Afriat 🇮🇱 (@EliAfriatISR) October 10, 2026

A report by Israeli outlet Maariv said Washington had pressed Israel in recent discussions to carry out a solo strike against Iran instead of pursuing a joint operation with the United States. The reported push came amid concerns that Tehran was rebuilding its drone and ballistic missile manufacturing capabilities despite earlier American and Israeli attacks.

The report also suggested that U.S. officials wanted Israel to assume responsibility for the political fallout of any new military action ahead of the American midterm elections. An attack could create political difficulties for President Donald Trump while potentially benefiting Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu ahead of Israel’s elections, according to the report.

IDF Chief of Staff Lt. Gen. Eyal Zamir reportedly cautioned American officials that a new strike could require Israel to postpone its elections. Maariv reported that the United States has since withdrawn the request for now.

The IDF announced Friday that it had carried out an aerial strike against Yusuf Ali Al-Hassoun near the Syria-Lebanon border, identifying him as a terrorist operating under Iranian direction.

According to the military, Al-Hassoun had been involved in planning attacks against Israeli civilians and soldiers stationed in southern Syria. The IDF said several attempted operations over the past year, including attacks involving explosive drones and rockets targeting Israeli troops, had been thwarted.

The military reiterated that it would continue taking action against what it described as immediate threats to Israeli forces and civilians across the region.

The IDF also reported a series of strikes against Hamas and Palestinian Islamic Jihad operatives in Gaza over a 24-hour period.

In Gaza City, Israeli forces targeted a gathering of Hamas Nukhba operatives. The military said several members of Hamas’ military wing were killed, including Muad Mazen Hamza Hassouna and Muhammad Riyad Khader Arahim.

In a separate operation in the Tuffah neighborhood of northern Gaza, the IDF announced the killing of Muhammad Walid Saadi Nakhala, whom it identified as the commander of Palestinian Islamic Jihad’s anti-tank unit.

The strikes form part of Israel’s ongoing military campaign against armed groups and their operational capabilities in Gaza and elsewhere in the region.

Besuros Tovos!

Law enforcement personnel rushed to multiple Yeshivas across Brooklyn on Friday morning following back-to-back security alerts that triggered immediate campus lockdowns, emergency evacuations, and intense police sweeps. Yeshivah of Flatbush Joel Braverman High School and V’yol Moshe at 590 Bedford Avenue in Williamsburg were both targeted.

Emergency units and specialized canine teams were dispatched to campus facilities in both Flatbush and Williamsburg after threatening calls were placed within minutes of each other. School administrators acted quickly to secure buildings, instituting rigorous safety protocols while law enforcement conducted exhaustive room-by-room searches to identify potential hazards. Following detailed inspections, authorities confirmed that no hazardous materials or explosive devices were located, and the reported alerts were ultimately deemed non-credible. As a safety measure, students were safely dismissed for the day while investigators work to trace the origins of the calls.

BREAKING: Security emergencies at two Jewish schools in Brooklyn.

One school is on lockdown amid a police investigation. Emergency crews are responding to a reported bomb threat at another school in Brooklyn.

Two days ago, hundreds of masked Islamists chanted “Long Live Hamas.” https://t.co/WdQ8QtqUDj

— Eyal Yakoby (@EYakoby) October 9, 2026

The dual security scares unfolded against a backdrop of escalating unease within area neighborhoods. Community members across the region have remained on elevated alert following recent demonstrations throughout New York where crowds gathered openly voicing hostility and vocal support for extremist groups. While investigators have not linked the threatening phone calls to specific rallies, local leaders and families have expressed growing concern regarding the safety and security of regional yeshivas, shuls, and communal centers.

Specialized investigative units remain actively engaged in tracking the electronic trail of the phoned-in threats to identify and apprehend the responsible individuals. Meanwhile, neighborhood community patrols and municipal security details have increased their visible presence around area academic centers and surrounding corridors heading into the weekend. Community organizations continue to urge residents to remain vigilant and immediately notify emergency personnel of any unusual activity.

Mayor Mamdani, this is not normal. Don’t add to the hatred.

🚨 Security/Bomb threats at two different Jewish schools in Brooklyn. One morning. @NYCMayor this isn’t a coincidence based on the timing of your criticisms of 10/7.

Yeshivah of Flatbush Joel Braverman High School is in a full lockdown. The school told parents the NYPD is on scene for a suspicious situation and asked families not to come to the building.

At the same time, V’yol Moshe at 590 Bedford Avenue in Williamsburg was evacuated over a reported bomb threat. Bedford Avenue is closed. The Bomb Squad was requested. Kids are out. Reported by Williamsburg 365 News.

This is the second time this week of school threats in this city. Tuesday it was 5 different public schools from Dyker Heights, Upper East Side, and Queens. Today it is yeshivas.

Parents: stay off the buildings until the schools and the NYPD say otherwise. A crowd does not help a lockdown.
No device confirmed. No all-clear yet.

Charge whoever called these in.
@NYPD90Pct @NYPDnews

— Moshe Spern (@moshespern) October 9, 2026

Michigan Democratic Senate hopeful Abdul El-Sayed repeatedly declined to identify whether Iran or Israel poses the greater threat to the United States during Thursday’s debate with Republican Mike Rogers, dismissing the question as a “ridiculous hypothetical.”

Abdul El-Sayed REFUSES to say that Iran is a bigger threat than Israel…

…ON THE DEBATE STAGE. https://t.co/RcNkT3r37h

— Townhall.com (@townhallcom) October 8, 2026

El-Sayed criticized Israel’s efforts to persuade Washington to confront Iran, saying the country’s “ostensible ally” had lobbied the U.S. to go to war. He also pointed to Iran’s retaliatory attacks across the Middle East and its disruption of global energy supplies, arguing that the United States should avoid becoming involved in the conflict.

Instead, El-Sayed said American funds should be directed toward domestic priorities, including schools, health care and child care. When pressed to answer the question directly, he said both Iran and Israel “have proven dangerous in their own way,” without ranking one as the greater threat.

Rogers sharply criticized his opponent’s response, accusing El-Sayed of failing to provide clear answers on terrorism. He also called attention to El-Sayed’s failure to issue a statement marking the third anniversary of the October 7, 2023, Hamas terrorist attack, in which approximately 1,200 people were killed in Israel.

“This is why you should get absolutely angry,” Rogers said, condemning what he described as El-Sayed’s unwillingness to acknowledge the atrocities committed during the massacre, including the killings, sexual violence and other brutality inflicted on victims and their families.

R’ Joey Haber

Source: Torah Anytime

1. Start with the right purpose: Before eating, remind yourself that the purpose of eating is to sustain your body so that you can serve Hashem, not simply to enjoy food. The Chassidim would say: “הנני רוצה לאכול ולשתות כדי שאהיה בריא וחזק לעבודת השם יתברך” (“I’m eating and drinking in order to be healthy and strong to work for Hashem”). (Shulchan Aruch 231:1; Mishnah Berurah 170:10)

2. Choose food for your health, not just your taste: Eat what benefits your health rather than automatically choosing what is sweetest or most enjoyable. (Mishnah Berurah 170:10) Even a small amount of harmful food can be more detrimental than a larger amount of healthy food. (Kitzur Shulchan Aruch 32:3)

3. Eat only what helps you serve Hashem: When food is being used to give you the strength and health needed for Avodas Hashem, the meal itself becomes a seudah mitzvah. (Mishnah Berurah 170:10)

4. Know when enough is enough: The goal is to eat enough to sustain yourself, not to chase the pleasure of being full. (Shulchan Aruch 231:1; Mesillas Yesharim, end of Perek 11) Without haughtiness, a person would be satisfied with what he actually needs.

5. Remember how short-lived the pleasure is: Mesillas Yesharim (Perek 13) points out that eating is pleasurable for only a moment—the pleasure lasts while the food is in the throat. Once you are full, it makes little difference whether you ate something delicious or something ordinary. Overeating also weighs you down and harms your ability to function.

6. Practice stopping before you have to: Occasionally stop eating while you are still enjoying the food. Giving up that extra pleasure is itself a way of breaking taavah and can serve as a kaparah. (Mishnah Berurah 571:2)

7. Use permitted pleasures to build self-control: Orchos Tzaddikim (Shaar Yiras Shamayim) teaches that breaking desire, even with permitted foods, trains you to overcome the desires that can lead to aveiros. When faced with an issur, you can think: “If I don’t even indulge in permitted things, why would I indulge in something assur?”

8. Take overeating seriously: The Rambam (Hilchos De’os 5) teaches that overeating can lead to three serious prohibitions: “בל תשקצו,” “השמר לך,” and “בל תשחית.”

9. Don’t let food become your focus: Orchos Tzaddikim (Shaar Yiras Shamayim) teaches that someone who is preoccupied with eating and drinking will never possess wisdom. Food should serve you; it should not become what you live for.

10. Keep the bigger picture in mind: Shaarei Teshuvah (2:17) explains that the less a person indulges in the physical pleasures of Olam Hazeh, the less attached he becomes to this world. The goal is not to stop enjoying food altogether, but to make sure that food remains a tool for Avodas Hashem, rather than becoming an end in itself.

11. Don’t pursue food for its own sake: The Chinuch (Mitzvah 117) teaches that the mezbeach does not desire sweet and pleasurable foods. A person should not spend his life chasing after good food; he should eat what is beneficial and necessary for him.

Savers, the national thrift-store chain continuing to expand across Long Island, is preparing to open a new location in Hewlett next year, taking over the former King Kullen supermarket space at the local shopping center on Peninsula.

The planned store will mark another addition to Savers’ growing Long Island footprint, which recently reached eight locations. The company has also leased the former Chase Bank building on the same property, although its plans for that separate space have not yet been finalized publicly.

The former bank building is a freestanding structure with a drive-through, offering the company several potential uses, including a possible donation drop-off location for customers bringing in clothing and other goods.

The company has not yet disclosed its specific plans for the building, and it remains unclear whether it will serve as an extension of the thrift store or fulfill another purpose.

The planned Hewlett opening adds to the chain’s presence on Long Island as shoppers increasingly encounter thrift stores as an alternative to traditional retail, offering secondhand clothing, household items and other donated merchandise.

Yeshiva Darchei Torah has announced a major change to its summer camp programs, sharing plans to close Simcha Day Camp and Machaneh Hakayitz and introduce an entirely new camp, Camp Malchus, for Summer 2027.

In a letter to the community, the yeshiva explained the decision and outlined its vision for a new summer experience for children in the Five Towns, Far Rockaway and beyond.

“Dear Parents, Neighbors and Friends,

From its inception, Yeshiva Darchei Torah has always been more than just a school.

We are a yeshiva. We are a thriving makom Torah. And we are a year-round resource for the entire community.

Two of the Yeshiva’s community treasures have been Simcha Day Camp, which we inherited when we purchased the campus in 1990; and Machaneh Hakayitz, which opened in 2009. Both have been dynamic centers of activity every summer, serving thousands of children from Far Rockaway, the Five Towns and beyond. Both have also been incredibly successful programs.

However, we have come to the realization that it no longer makes sense for the Yeshiva to operate these two camps on the same campus simultaneously, even though each camp had its own unique ‘flavor’ and character.

We have therefore come to the decision to close both Simcha Day Camp and Machaneh Hakayitz, and to establish an entirely new program for Summer 2027, Camp Malchus, which will take some of the greatest qualities of the previous camps and enhance them, while introducing entirely new activities, projects, and trips.

It must be emphasized that Camp Malchus is not merely a new name or ‘rebrand’ of an existing program; it will be an entirely new camp, with new experiences geared for today’s children—on our 9-acre campus.

Be’ezras Hashem, we look forward to publishing more details of this exciting new venture in the coming days and weeks, and to continue to serve this community 365 days a year.

The Hanhala”

Describing the painstaking trial and error process that eventually led to the creation of the incandescent light bulb, prolific inventor Thomas Edison famously said, “I have not failed. I have merely found 10,000 ways that won’t work.” British entrepreneur James Dyson reports that he built 5,127 prototypes of his cyclonic vacuum before reaching the one that was commercially successful.

John Maxwell, author of numerous books on maximizing personal and leadership potential, writes in Failing Forward that “the difference between average people and achieving people is their perception of and response to failure.” There is no shortage of stories about highly accomplished people who overcame early setbacks. Abraham Lincoln lost multiple elections, failed in business, and suffered a nervous breakdown. The Beatles were turned down for a record deal because they were told their sound wasn’t appealing. Michael Jordan famously recalled the pain of not making his high school varsity basketball team. These individuals didn’t allow disappointment to define them. They regrouped, recalibrated, and pressed forward.

But is that capacity reserved for exceptional people? Is it only great entrepreneurs, leaders, athletes, and innovators who possess the tenacity to begin again? Can every one of us learn not only how to survive disappointment, but how to rebuild after a world we knew has been shattered?

The Midrash notes something fascinating about the Torah’s description of the first day of creation: Rav Yehuda b. R. Simon said: “‘Let there be evening’ is not written here, but ‘And there was evening’; hence we know that a time-order existed before this.” Rabbi Abahu said: “This proves that the Holy One, blessed be He, went on creating worlds and destroying them until He created this one, and declared, ‘This one pleases Me. Those did not please Me.’”

What does this mean? Is Rabbi Abahu asserting as a historical fact the existence of previous worlds that were created and destroyed? And if the Midrash is speaking metaphorically, what is it trying to teach us? Hashem is infinite, omnipotent, and perfect. What could it possibly mean for Him to create and destroy until He got it “right”? Could He not envision and create the correct world from the start?

Rav Soloveitchik explains that of course Hashem is perfect and could have created the world as He wished from the outset. But the Torah describes creation this way to establish a model and precedent for us. The first lesson of creation is that a destroyed world does not mean creation is over. When one world comes crashing down, another can be built. If the Torah describes Hashem, as it were, creating again after destruction, then we are being taught that we can do the same.

Indeed, the Talmud (Pesachim 54b) tells us that seven things were created before the world, and one of them is teshuva. Before human beings existed with the capacity to make mistakes, before we could fail, fall, become broken or lose our way, the possibility of repair, return, and renewal was already woven into existence. Teshuva isn’t an afterthought or an emergency exit. It precedes the world because beginning again is part of the very architecture of creation.

If we anticipate complete perfection in our lives, our expectations will inevitably be shattered. Perfectionism is not only unrealistic, but also counterproductive and ultimately damaging. We don’t strive for failure, but when it comes, we refuse to be defined by it. We learn from it, grow through it, and build from it. Winston Churchill captured the idea when he described success as going from failure to failure without losing enthusiasm.

Bereishis bara Elokim can therefore be heard not only as “In the beginning God created.” Perhaps one of the greatest gifts God created is Bereishis itself, the capacity for a beginning. And not only one beginning. Another beginning and another. Fresh opportunities, new chapters, the ability to say that what happened yesterday may shape me, but it will not imprison me.

Carol Dweck, in her book Mindset, contrasts a fixed mindset with a growth mindset. In a fixed mindset, everything depends on the outcome. Failure means the effort was wasted. A growth mindset recognizes that what we become through struggle can matter as much as the result we originally sought. As she memorably writes, “Becoming is better than being.”

Rabbi Soloveitchik developed this insight in 1957 while reflecting on the Jewish world following the Holocaust. Entire worlds had been destroyed. Families, communities, yeshivos, towns, centuries of Jewish life had gone up in smoke. And yet the Jewish people did what we have somehow done throughout our history. We mourned, we remembered, and then, without ever forgetting what was lost, we built again. New families were formed. New yeshivos were established. Communities flourished. The State of Israel arose. Torah life was rebuilt in places where people had wondered whether it could ever recover.

And then came October 7. Once again, in a way our generation could scarcely have imagined, Jewish worlds were destroyed. Families were shattered, homes were burned, and communities along the Gaza border were devastated. Precious lives were brutally taken and hostages were dragged into captivity. Soldiers went off to defend our people and some never returned, while others returned carrying wounds visible and invisible. The sense of security Israelis had built over decades was shattered in a matter of hours. Jews around the world discovered that assumptions we had made about our safety, our neighbors, our universities, our workplaces, and even some of our friends were not as secure as we thought.

October 7 destroyed worlds. But it did not destroy our capacity to create them again. In the three years since that horrific Simchas Torah, we have watched Bereishis unfold before our eyes. We have seen wounded soldiers fight through agonizing rehabilitation to stand again, some even to stand beneath a chuppah. We have watched displaced families return and communities rebuild. We have seen reservists leave careers, businesses, spouses, and children because Am Yisrael needed them. We have watched weddings celebrated in the shadow of war, babies named for fallen heroes, Torah learned in their memory, and extraordinary acts of chesed performed on a scale that defies description. We have watched Jews who had felt distant rediscover their people, their faith, their tefillin, their Shabbos candles, their Torah, and their connection to Eretz Yisrael.

Our enemies believed that by destroying Jewish homes they could destroy the Jewish future, but they have never understood us. When a world is destroyed, our response is Bereishis. Begin again.

That lesson isn’t only national or historical. All of us experience moments when a world we had constructed no longer exists. Sometimes circumstances beyond our control shatter the world we thought we knew. Other times, we make choices we deeply regret and wonder whether we have permanently forfeited the person we hoped to become. A dream can collapse, a relationship can unravel, a plan we were counting on can disappear, or life can simply turn out very differently from what we had imagined.

At those moments, the yetzer hara whispers that this is the end of the story. The world you built is gone. You failed. You lost too much. Too much time has passed. You cannot go back. And perhaps you can’t go back. But Bereishis teaches that you don’t have to.

Hashem doesn’t ask us to recreate yesterday. He gives us the capacity to create tomorrow. The world that was destroyed may never return exactly as it was, but another world can still be built.

The Torah could have begun with almost anything. Instead, its first word is Bereishis. Perhaps because before we can learn any other lesson, we need to know this one: there is always the possibility of another beginning. Whatever world has fallen apart, whatever mistake we have made, whatever disappointment we carry, whatever chapter didn’t turn out as we hoped, it doesn’t have to be the last chapter.

Last week, the Department of the Treasury released the long-awaited rules for new Federal Scholarship Tax Credit. The document contained a number of victories for families and reflected the culmination of months of advocacy efforts by Agudah and its coalition partners.

In a major breakthrough, the new rule clarifies that a married couple filing jointly may each donate $1700 and receive a combined $3400 tax credit. This decision alone will mean significantly more scholarships for students!

On Tuesday, Agudah held a briefing on the rules for the new Federal Scholarship Tax Credit with special guest Greg Dolan, Senior Advisor, Office of Tax Policy U.S. Department of Treasury.

The briefing included an overview of the tax credit, a Q&A, and a deep dive into the new regulations and how they will potentially affect scholarship granting organizations, schools, and communities.

What is the Federal Scholarship Tax Credit?

The FSTC allows individual taxpayers to contribute to a nonprofit scholarship granting organization (SGO) and receive a dollar-for-dollar tax credit worth up to $1700 per taxpayer ($3400 for married couples filing jointly). The SGO then pools the funds and distributes scholarships to eligible students for a wide range of K-12 educational expenses including private school tuition and tutoring.

Click here to view an easy to understand FAQ for donors and parents.

What Are the Income Eligibility Requirements to Receive a Scholarship?

Eligibility extends to students in families that are earning 300% or below of the median income in that area (see chart). Priority will be given to previous scholarship students and their siblings. Income threshold is adjusted for family size.

This video features an interview with Daniel Schlichter, a passenger on Flydubai flight FZ1073, who recounts his experience during an attempted cockpit attack on October 2nd.

While flying from Dubai to Tel Aviv, a passenger near the cockpit alerted others that the pilot was being stabbed. Schlichter heard a physical struggle inside the cockpit, identifying it as a terrorist attack.

Several Israeli passengers, including Yaniv and Assaf, rushed to the cockpit to subdue the attacker, fighting him off despite the extreme danger. Schlichter assisted by providing headphones to help tie the attacker’s hands and feet.

The aircraft lost approximately 15,000 feet in under a minute. Fortunately, other pilots on board managed to enter the cockpit and stabilize the plane.

A dentist on board, Dr. Shuta, provided medical care to the injured pilot. Schlichter notes that despite the chaos, the crew and passengers ultimately regained control of the situation.

Schlichter describes the event as a “divine set of miracles” and emphasizes the bravery of the ordinary passengers who reacted with instinct to save those on board.

NYC Mayor Zohran Mamdani faced a hostile reception from anti-Israel protesters as he attended an October 7 memorial in Union Square, where demonstrators shouted that he was a “traitor” and a “coward”, in a striking twist of irony.

The protests delayed the memorial by approximately 40 minutes. At one point, demented demonstrators held up a photograph of Yahya Sinwar (yimach Shemo), the Hamas leader responsible for orchestrating the October 7 massacre.

As Mamdani departed, protesters followed him, continuing to hurl insults and calling him a coward and an opportunist.

Perhaps the most ironic moment came just hours after Mamdani accused Israel of “genocide” in his own October 7 statement. Protesters turned the same accusation against him, chanting: “Mamdani, you can’t hide, we charge you with genocide.”

Moshe Spern: “Mamdani got the campus treatment last night. He showed up at an Oct. 7 vigil in Union Square. His own protesters booed him, called him a traitor and a coward, and chanted “how many kids did you kill today?” He stood there with a candle, said nothing, and left with his security.

That is what Jewish students have lived with since Oct. 7. Booed. Blamed. Run off a memorial for a massacre, over a genocide libel. The mayor who spent years feeding that climate just got a taste of it. From the people he trained.”

Mamdani got the campus treatment last night.

He showed up at an Oct. 7 vigil in Union Square. His own protesters booed him, called him a traitor and a coward, and chanted “how many kids did you kill today?” He stood there with a candle, said nothing, and left with his security.

That is what Jewish students have lived with since Oct. 7. Booed. Blamed. Run off a memorial for a massacre, over a genocide libel.

The mayor who spent years feeding that climate just got a taste of it. From the people he trained.

— Moshe Spern (@moshespern) October 8, 2026

Raytheon-Rafael facility in Arkansas delivers its first fully American-made Tamir interceptor to the Israel Missile Defense Organization (IMDO), within the Directorate of Defense Research and Development (DDR&D) of the Israel Ministry of Defense (IMOD), as part of the cooperative U.S.-Israel program for the defense of Israel.

At a ceremony held at the Raytheon-Rafael Area Protection Systems (R2S) facility in East Camden, Arkansas, the first Tamir interceptor fully built and assembled on U.S. soil was delivered to IMDO. Tamir is the interceptor of the Iron Dome air and missile defense system.

The Camden facility was built to produce Tamir interceptors for Iron Dome, which has defended Israel against a wide range of threats, including in recent regional conflicts. It is the first production site outside Israel to manufacture complete Tamir interceptors.

The facility was established by Rafael in partnership with Raytheon through their R2S joint venture, as part of a production agreement to build manufacturing capabilities in the United States. It reflects the strategic partnership between the United States and Israel in missile defense, advancing work-sharing between the two countries’ defense industries, creating numerous American jobs, and strengthening U.S. security and the defense industrial base.

The ceremony was attended by Arkansas Governor Sarah Huckabee Sanders; U.S. Missile Defense Agency (MDA) Deputy Director and Acting Director for Test, Maj. Gen. Jason D. Cothern; IDF Military Attaché in Washington, Maj. Gen. Tal Politis; Consul General of Israel to the Southwest Adi Farjon; IMDO Director Moshe Patel; Rafael Executive Vice President and Head of the Air and Missile Defense Division Shlomo Toaff; R2S CEO Jonathan Casey; and additional representatives and guests from the United States and Israel.

MDA is IMDO’s partner in the cooperative U.S.-Israel program. IMDO, within the Ministry’s DDR&D, is responsible for the air and missile defense architecture of the Israeli Air Force and leads the development and co-production of the David’s Sling and Arrow weapon systems, and the co-production of Iron Dome, together with MDA and the defense industries in Israel and the United States.

The Tamir interceptor was developed under the leadership of IMDO, with Rafael as prime contractor. Iron Dome has recorded more than 10,000 operational interceptions over 15 years of service.

Rafael and Raytheon have cooperated on Tamir interceptor production as part of U.S. workshare requirements for Iron Dome for more than a decade.

Moshe Patel, Director of the Israel Missile Defense Organization (IMDO), DDR&D, Israel Ministry of Defense, stated in the ceremony: “Israel’s multi-layered missile defense array, and Iron Dome in particular, has repeatedly demonstrated in recent years its crucial role in saving lives and reducing damage from a wide range of threats. As part of IMDO’s efforts to accelerate production across all missile defense systems, this new production line represents a significant step in strengthening the shared production capabilities of Israel and the United States. U.S. BMD funding for U.S.-Israeli cooperative missile defense programs, including emergency supplemental funding, is reinvested in the U.S. industrial base, strengthening production capacity, deepening our partnership with MDA and the U.S. Government, and enhancing both nations’ ability to protect their citizens.”

Shlomo Toaff, Rafael Executive Vice President and Head of the Air and Missile Defense Division, stated in the ceremony: “When we started developing Iron Dome, a lot of people said it couldn’t be done. Our engineers proved them wrong. Fifteen years after its first operational interception, Iron Dome has made more than 10,000 successful interceptions, saving lives, and at the heart of it all is the Tamir interceptor. Today, for the first time, Tamir is being built outside Israel, here in Camden. We are proud to have turned this facility into a working production line. For the customers who depend on Tamir, that means another reliable source. For the U.S. Marine Corps, it supports SkyHunter. For Rafael, this is how we want to grow in America: Israeli engineering, American production, each making the other stronger. I want to thank our partners at R2S and Raytheon, the Missile Defense Agency, and the Israel Missile Defense Organization for their trust and support.”

The below video features a United Nations event marking the third anniversary of the October 7th attack on Israel.

Dr. Phil delivers a keynote speech regarding his personal journey to learn about Israel and the Jewish people, the ongoing psychological impact of the attack, and the necessity of global moral clarity.

Following his address, Dr. Phil interviews two survivors of the Nova Music Festival. They provide testimonies of their experiences during the attack, the trauma of losing family members, and the difficulties of surviving captivity. The discussion emphasizes themes of personal identity, the resilience of the Israeli people, and the collective fight against hatred.

Dr. Phil is an absolute Oheiv Yisrael, and we once again thank him for his moral courage to stand with the Jewish people.

RAYS vs. YANKEES: ALDS Series Full Game 3 Highlights (October 7)

The Yankees lost 4-3.

President Trump paid homage on Truth Social to the thousands of lives lost on 10/7.

Dear Residents,

Today, we mark three years since the horrific attacks of October 7, 2023, a day of unimaginable terror, loss, and heartbreak that changed Israel, the Jewish people, and the world forever.

In solemn remembrance of the victims of October 7th, the Village of Lawrence has lowered its flags to half-staff today as a symbol of mourning, remembrance, and solidarity.

We remember the innocent men, women, and children who were murdered. We remember the families torn apart, the communities devastated, and the countless lives forever changed. We remember the fear, the pain, and the darkness of that day and we must make certain that the world never forgets.

October 7th was also a painful reminder of a truth we can never afford to ignore: antisemitism is real, it is dangerous, and it must never be tolerated.

History has taught us what can happen when hatred is ignored, excused, or allowed to grow. From the horrors of the Holocaust to the atrocities of October 7th, we are reminded that silence and indifference are never acceptable.

Our responsibility is not only to remember the past, but to learn from it and act upon it.

We must stand together against antisemitism in every form and at every level. We must speak out against hatred wherever it appears. And as a community, we must be willing to put aside our petty differences and recognize that there are moments when unity is not simply desirable, it is essential.

We are strongest when we stand together.

There is “unity” within “community”, and there can be no strong community without unity.

As residents of the Village of Lawrence, we must continue to support one another, protect one another, and stand proudly and unapologetically against hatred and antisemitism.

May the memories of those who were murdered on October 7th forever be a blessing. May we continue to pray for the wounded, for the families who continue to carry unimaginable pain, for the safety of our brothers and sisters in Israel, and for peace and security for the Jewish people throughout the world.

May God bless the residents of the Village of Lawrence, the United States of America, the great State of Israel, and the Jewish people everywhere.

We remember. We stand together. We will never be silent.

Am Yisrael Chai.

Samuel Nahmias
Mayor

Aaron M. Parnes, Deputy Mayor
Tammy M. Roz, Trustee
Aaron Felder, Trustee
Steven C. Gottesman, Trustee

A suspicious package found outside the White Shul this morning prompted a police response, with both nearby parking lots temporarily closed as a precaution.

NYPD officers inspected the package and determined that it posed no threat. The area was cleared, and police returned the package to its owner.

BH. Thankful to the police for their quick response and professionalism.

⁃ All males are required to be mavir sedra every week.

⁃ Those that are mavir sedra will live a longer life amongst other Brachos.

_

How
⁃ There are two variations on how to read each passuk:
1 – Read each passuk twice and then the Targum.
2 – Read one passuk, then the Targum, then the passuk again.

⁃ The translation should not be read before the Psukim.

⁃ Read each passuk twice and afterwards Targum for each parsha (meaning until the letter פ or ס).

⁃ Really the requirement is to read the Targum Unkulus (because it was given at Har Sinai).

⁃ Learning Rashi is also considered a translation.

⁃ If one does Rashi without doing Unkulus, then the pesukim that don’t have any Rashi should be read three times.

⁃ Best is to do both and Unkulus and Rashi.

⁃ Those that have a difficult time understanding Unkulus and/or Rashi should use an English translation that actually explains the pesukim and doesn’t just translate (The Living Torah Chumash from R’ Aryeh Kaplan is a good example).

⁃ The pesukim and Unkulus should be verbalized. With the name of Hashem. Translation and Rashi don’t have to be verbalized.

⁃ The parsha should be reviewed in the proper order. If it wasn’t then it doesn’t have to be repeated.

⁃ The psukim can be read quietly along with the Baal Koreh and that will count towards reading the psukim one time.

⁃ There should preferably be no talking or disturbances while reviewing the Parsha.

⁃ At the end of the Parsha, the last passuk should preferably be repeated.

When
⁃ Most are of the opinion that the next weeks Parsha can be started at Mincha time on Shabbos afternoon.

⁃ The Parsha should be completed before the meal starts on Shabbos morning.

⁃ If no, then up until Tuesday night is acceptable.

⁃ After that, up until Simchas Torah is acceptable.

⁃ If you’re behind from previous weeks, first finish the previous parsha before the current parsha unless you’ll miss finishing the current parsha by Shabbos morning.

⁃ Kabala says not to learn Tanach at night. Those that aren’t concerned with Kabala (most) can learn Tanach at night. Therefore mavir sedra at night is fine.

⁃ Even those that don’t learn Tanach at night, Thursday and Friday nights are allowed.

_

On the third anniversary of the October 7 massacre, Mayor Zohran Mamdani issued a statement that condemned Hamas for killing more than 1,100 Israelis and abducting 251 people — but then pivoted sharply to attacking Israel, accusing the Israeli government of carrying out an “ongoing genocide” in Gaza and calling Israel’s actions “war crimes.”

Mamdani also criticized U.S. support for Israel and said American tax dollars are funding what he described as “war crimes.”

His remarks, issued on a day of mourning and remembrance for the victims of October 7, have drawn criticism for placing Israel’s actions at the center of his statement while describing the Hamas massacre only briefly.

Full Statement from Mayor Zohran Kwame Mamdani: “This day is profoundly painful for so many New Yorkers. It marks three years since the horrific war crimes of October 7. On that day, Hamas killed more than 1,100 Israelis and abducted 251 others. We grieve alongside our many friends and neighbors who still carry that unthinkable loss.

The suffering did not begin nor end that day. It instead continued through the Israeli government’s devastating, ongoing genocide in Gaza, in which it has killed more than 74,000 Palestinians—including more than 21,000 children. Even since the so-called ceasefire, more than 1,400 Palestinians have been killed. That suffering has intensified with every Israeli bomb dropped on ambulances waiting outside hospitals, every drone strike targeting a residential building or journalist, and every shipment of food aid turned away at a border crossing. Many New Yorkers are reckoning with this unbearable grief, and we mourn alongside them – all while knowing that our tax dollars fund these war crimes.

Three years later, we must refuse to accept a world in which occupation and apartheid continue, where war crimes are met with impunity, and our federal government continues its complicity with every arms shipment.

To honor the dead, we must fight for a world in which every person can live with freedom, safety, and dignity.”

Several Reactions:

Raylen Givens: “Absolutely disgusting and disgraceful. You are a filthy, vile person who should never be anywhere near public office. The fact that anyone could read something like this and still decide this is the person they want representing them is beyond me. This is filth. This is who you are, and people need to see it.”

Uri Pilichowski: “While we celebrate D-day and our victory over the Nazis, let us remember that the war also touched the lives of many Nazi children. America killed millions of Germans, Italians, and Japanese in a genocide that culminated in two atomic bombs. Employing moral relativism conflates good and bad.”

Moshe Spern: “You marked the anniversary of a massacre by accusing the people who were massacred of genocide. You’re a pathetic excuse for a Mayor. You clearly hate Jews as much as your wife and family! You couldn’t even go one day supporting Jewish New Yorkers! I am so tired of your antics.”

Loay Alshareef لؤي الشريف: “Dear Mayor Mamdani, Every single innocent Palestinian who has died in Gaza is a tragedy, but to be morally consistent, you should solely blame Hamas, which waged this war in an attempt to annihilate Israel.

Hamas is the real genocide-seeker: it wants to annihilate Israel but it can’t, while Israel could annihilate Gaza but chooses not to. The evil of Hamas and radical Islamists has reached New York City, and I pray you wake up before that evil gets out of control in your city. Make the morally correct decision and listen to those who know.”

Three years ago today, Israel awoke to one of the darkest days in its modern history.

At approximately 6:29 a.m. on October 7, 2023, thousands of Hamas-led terrorists breached the Gaza border under the cover of a massive rocket barrage. They attacked communities, military bases and the Nova music festival, murdering approximately 1,200 people and abducting 251 others to Gaza. The assault triggered a war that would reshape Israel, the region and Jewish communities around the world.

As Israel marks the third anniversary, the consequences of that morning remain deeply felt. The country is still mourning those who were murdered, caring for tens of thousands of wounded soldiers and security personnel, and rebuilding communities devastated by the attack.

The Morning Israel Was Overrun

The assault began with rockets fired toward southern and central Israel. At the same time, Hamas used drones to target surveillance equipment and other components of Israel’s border defenses before terrorists breached the security fence at multiple locations.

Terrorists poured into southern communities, including Be’eri, Kfar Aza, Nir Oz, Nahal Oz, Kissufim, Sderot and Ofakim.

At the Nova festival near Re’im, thousands of young people suddenly found themselves under attack. As the gathering was shut down and attendees attempted to flee, terrorists positioned themselves along roads and escape routes, firing at vehicles and people attempting to hide.

Among those caught in the attack were Hersh Goldberg-Polin HY”D, Eliya Cohen and Or Levy, who were later taken hostage.

One of the most recognizable images from that morning showed Noa Argamani being taken away on a motorcycle. She would remain in captivity for months before being rescued during an Israeli special forces operation in June 2024.

In Kfar Aza, photographer Roi Idan HY”D documented Hamas terrorists entering the community before he was murdered. His wife, Smadar HY”D, was also killed. Their young daughter Abigail was abducted and later became one of the most widely known child hostages.

Across the Gaza border communities, families were trapped inside safe rooms while terrorists moved from house to house.

By the afternoon, Israeli security forces were gradually regaining control of the communities, but the scale of the devastation was becoming clear.

A Day of Mass Murder and Abductions

The attack ultimately left approximately 1,200 people dead, including civilians, soldiers, police officers and other security personnel. More than 250 people were initially taken hostage, with the official total later established at 251.

The victims included babies, children, elderly people, young adults attending the Nova festival and members of the security forces who fought to defend the communities.

Among the victims was Sha’ar HaNegev Regional Council head Ofir Libstein HY”D, who was killed while responding to the attack.

Ronen Engel HY”D was killed while defending his family, and his body was taken to Gaza. His wife Karina and daughters Mika and Yuval were also abducted.

Carmel Gat HY”D was taken from Kibbutz Be’eri. Her mother Kinneret was murdered, while other members of the family were also caught in the attack.

Three-year-old Abigail Idan was abducted after her father Roi was murdered. Abigail, along with Hagar Brodutch and her three children, was eventually released during the November 2023 hostage deal.

The first hostages were released on October 20, when Judith and Natalie Raanan were freed. Additional releases followed, including Yocheved Lifshitz and Nurit Cooper.

On October 30, IDF and Shin Bet forces rescued Pvt. Ori Magidish, a surveillance soldier who had been abducted from the Nahal Oz base.

The Hostage Crisis

The hostage crisis became one of the defining elements of the war.

From November 24 through November 30, a temporary ceasefire resulted in the release of 105 hostages in exchange for Palestinian prisoners. Fighting resumed afterward, while negotiations and military operations continued simultaneously.

Israel subsequently carried out several dramatic rescue missions.

In February 2024, Yamam, Shin Bet and IDF forces rescued Fernando Marman and Louis Har from a building in Rafah.

Four months later, on June 8, Israeli forces carried out Operation Arnon, rescuing Noa Argamani, Almog Meir Jan, Shlomi Ziv and Andrey Kozlov from Nuseirat.

In August, Farhan al-Qadi was rescued from a tunnel in southern Gaza.

But many hostages did not survive.

In September 2024, Israel announced that Hersh Goldberg-Polin HY”D, Ori Danino HY”D, Eden Yerushalmi, Alex Lobanov HY”D, Almog Sarusi HY”D and Carmel Gat HY”D had been murdered by their captors shortly before Israeli forces located their bodies.

A second major hostage agreement took effect in January 2025, eventually resulting in the release of dozens of hostages and the return of additional bodies.

Among the most painful moments came with the return of Shiri Bibas and her two young sons, Ariel and Kfir. Their bodies were returned to Israel after it was determined that they had been murdered in captivity.

The Final Hostage

The hostage ordeal finally reached its conclusion in January 2026.

Master Sgt. Ran Gvili HY”D, an Israel Police special patrol officer and the final hostage remaining in Gaza, was located and brought back to Israel on January 26.

His return marked the end of more than two years in which the fate of 251 abducted people had remained at the center of Israel’s national consciousness.

The War in Gaza

Israel’s military response began immediately after the October 7 attack and developed into a prolonged campaign against Hamas.

The IDF launched its large-scale ground operation in northern Gaza on October 27, 2023. Fighting subsequently spread throughout the Gaza Strip, including major operations in Khan Younis and Rafah.

Israel also targeted Hamas’s senior leadership. Hamas military chief Mohammed Deif was killed in an Israeli strike in July 2024, while Hamas leader Yahya Sinwar was killed by Israeli troops in Rafah in October 2024.

The fighting continued into 2025, including a renewed Israeli offensive following the collapse of a ceasefire.

Israel also conducted operations targeting Hamas leadership outside Gaza, including a September 2025 strike against senior Hamas officials meeting in Doha, Qatar.

Eventually, an internationally mediated agreement brought the large-scale fighting in Gaza to an end and led to the release of the final living hostages.

Israeli forces subsequently shifted from the large-scale campaign toward continued security operations and targeted strikes against Hamas personnel.

According to Israeli officials, approximately 4,000 of the estimated 6,000 terrorists who entered Israel during the October 7 assault have since been killed. IDF Military Intelligence Chief Maj. Gen. Shlomi Binder said roughly 2,000 remain, adding that Israel intends to pursue them.

The Human Cost in Israel

The war has left an enormous physical and psychological toll on Israeli soldiers and security personnel.

Israel’s Defense Ministry said this week that approximately 30,000 wounded soldiers and members of the security forces have entered its Rehabilitation Department since October 7.

Approximately 63% are dealing with psychological consequences, while 47% of the wounded are under 30 and 62% are reservists. The department currently treats 91,200 people from Israel’s wars and military operations, including approximately 42,500 dealing with mental-health conditions or PTSD.

Among those wounded since October 7 are 63 people classified with 100%+ disability, 249 with complex head injuries, 29 with permanent blindness or serious visual impairment and 106 amputees.

The Defense Ministry estimates that the rehabilitation system could be treating approximately 100,000 people by 2028, with about half requiring mental-health care.

The government has expanded psychological treatment, rehabilitation programs, specialized facilities and other support services in response to the unprecedented number of wounded.

A Nation Still Living With October 7

The attack also left a lasting civilian toll. Israel’s National Insurance Institute reports that 1,029 Israeli civilians have been murdered in terrorist attacks since the beginning of the war, including 778 people killed on October 7 itself. Tens of thousands of additional civilians have been recognized as victims of hostile actions.

The physical destruction was concentrated in the communities surrounding Gaza, but the impact reached virtually every part of Israeli society.

Families lost parents and children. Thousands of soldiers returned home wounded. Hostage families spent months and years waiting for news. Survivors of the massacre continue to deal with trauma. Entire communities were displaced and forced to rebuild.

And for Jewish communities worldwide, October 7 became a defining moment — remembered through the names of the murdered, the hostages, the fallen soldiers and the countless people whose lives were permanently changed.

Three years later, Israel continues to commemorate those who were lost on that morning.

May the neshamos of all those brutally murdered have an aliyah, and may the memories of the victims and the courage of those who fought to save others never be forgotten.

יהי זכרם ברוך.

By: Pesach Osina, Candidate for State Assembly District 23

As a father of six, I think about public safety the same way all parents do. I worry whether my children are safe when they leave home. I think about parents and grandparents walking through the neighborhood. I think about the small business owner who works early to late just to keep the doors open. And I think about the families who work hard, follow the rules and simply want to feel secure in the community they call home.

Those are the people I am running to represent.

Public safety is not an abstract political issue. It is about feeling safe and comfortable where you live. It is knowing the police will be there when you need them. It is knowing that repeated criminals face real consequences. It is being able to walk into your local pharmacy or supermarket without seeing basic necessities locked behind plastic, or knowing that a package delivered to your porch won’t be stolen before you can get home.

When I am elected to the State Assembly, standing with our police to strengthen public safety and protect Queens families be my top priority.

I will fight for tougher bail laws to keep dangerous offenders off our streets. I will fight for stronger laws against repeat shoplifting, trespassing, porch pirates, and organized retail theft. And I will stand up for our police officers and first responders to make sure they have the resources, staffing, benefits and retirement security they deserve.

That commitment is why I am so proud to have earned the endorsement of both the NYC Police Benevolent Association and the New York State Troopers PBA.

Our first reponders know firsthand what is happening in our communities. They understand where our laws are working and where they are falling short. Keeping people safe takes more than talking about public safety during an election. It takes laws that make sense, resources for our police, consequences that mean something, and elected officials who listen to the people every day.

One issue – porch piracy –

has become so common that many people almost expect it. You order something online. You track it on your phone. You get the notification that it was delivered. Then you come home and find an empty doorstep. Someone walked onto your property and took something – a birthday present for your child, school supplies, medicine for a parent or grandparent, or something you had saved up to buy. needed.

Whatever was inside that box, you worked for it. You paid for it. And it was at your home. You should not have your package stolen or your property invaded.

But New York’s laws don’t reflect the way we live today. Our theft laws focus on the dollar value of what was stolen, and treat porches and private outdoor areas differently than other property.

Under current New York law, the seriousness of a larceny charge depends on the value and circumstances of what was stolen. But if someone enters your home unlawfully and steals something, New York’s burglary laws recognize that as a fundamentally different offense.

That distinction makes sense. Your home – all of your home – is your private space. Someone who comes onto your porch to steal is not simply taking property — they are invading the security of your home and your family.

New York needs stronger laws that recognize the seriousness of someone deliberately coming onto residential property to steal a package.

A package on your porch may be outside your four walls, but it was intentionally delivered to your home, to your private property, for you. The thief hase deliberately come onto your personal property, invaded your family’s space, to take your package. .

This conduct needs serious consequences.

If someone walks onto your property, goes up your steps, looks around your porch, and steals your belongings, the value of the item stolen has nothing to do with the seriousness of the crime. For all the thief knows, the package could be worth $20 or $2000. Criminals don’t know the value when committing the crimes, so why should the law have different punishments for the crime committed? And if someone is going from home to home, stealing multiple packages, our laws should recognize the repeated and intentional nature of that conduct.

That is why, in the Assembly, I will support legislation creating clear and meaningful consequences for package theft, including stronger penalties for repeat offenders, a clear legal standard that porches are considered part of your home, and enhanced consequences when stolen packages contain medication or medical equipment.

To me, that is what common-sense public safety looks like. It means looking at the problems people are actually experiencing and making government respond. Albany has a very real responsibility because state legislators write New York’s criminal laws. When those laws no longer reflect what is happening in our neighborhoods, we have the ability and the responsibility to improve them.

When you see toothpaste and deodorant locked behind plastic at the store, something has gone wrong. When you have to plan your entire day around making sure someone is home to receive a package, something has gone wrong. People should not have to lower their expectations for what a safe community looks like.

We know we will never eliminate every crime. But we can make sure our laws are strong, our law enforcement officers are supported and the concerns of everyday families are not dismissed.

That is the approach I will take in Albany.

Public safety begins at home.

New York City property owners who may qualify for an exemption from the city’s new pied-à-terre surcharge have been given additional time to file, with the deadline now extended to October 13.

The Department of Finance announced the extension Tuesday, just as the previous deadline was set to expire. More than 5,200 exemption applications have already been approved.

The extension comes as the city continues to defend the rollout of the controversial surcharge in court. An appeals court ruled Tuesday that the city can continue implementing the tax while it considers a legal challenge to the way homeowners were notified. The decision temporarily puts on hold a September 29 ruling by a Staten Island judge that had ordered the city to restart its notification process.

The surcharge applies to certain non-primary residences, including one-, two- and three-family homes valued above $5 million and condominium or cooperative units valued at $1 million or more. Properties used as a primary residence by the owner, certain family members or qualifying tenants may be exempt.

The rollout has faced criticism after the city sent notices to roughly 17,000 property owners and published information involving hundreds of thousands of properties. The Staten Island judge previously found problems with the city’s notification process, while the city has appealed that decision.

Jae Ko, a spokesperson for the Department of Finance, said the legal challenges have complicated the process but that the administration wants property owners to have sufficient time to respond.

“These meritless lawsuits have created a lot of unnecessary confusion. Nevertheless, the Administration remains fully committed to ensuring that New Yorkers have the time and information they need to apply.”

The tax itself is also facing separate legal challenges. Former U.S. Commerce Secretary Wilbur Ross and casino executive Steve Wynn are among the plaintiffs challenging the levy, arguing that it improperly singles out property owners who live outside New York City. That case attacks the legality of the tax itself, rather than simply the way the city implemented it.

Despite the litigation, the city is continuing with the rollout for now and plans to include the surcharge on property tax bills due January 1. The appeals court has said it expects to rule on the underlying implementation dispute by November 10.

Property owners who believe they qualify for an exemption should take note of the new October 13 deadline while the legal challenges continue.

New York City is recording historic lows in shootings and murders, but a very different trend is emerging in hate crimes, with Jewish New Yorkers accounting for more than half of all confirmed incidents so far this year.

According to newly released NYPD statistics, 463 hate crimes were confirmed across the city between January 1 and September 30. Of those, 245 targeted Jews — 52.9% of all confirmed hate crimes. The figure is up 1.2% from the 242 anti-Jewish hate crimes recorded during the same period last year.

The disparity is particularly notable because the NYPD estimates that Jewish residents make up roughly 10% of New York City’s population.

“The most striking trend continues to be antisemitic hate crimes,” NYPD Commissioner Jessica Tisch said. “So far this year, 53% of all confirmed hate crimes have targeted Jewish New Yorkers, despite Jews making up only roughly 10% of the city’s population.”

The numbers have fluctuated throughout the year. During the third quarter, 59 confirmed hate crimes targeted Jews, down 13.2% from the 68 recorded during the same period in 2025. However, anti-Muslim hate crimes rose sharply, with 11 confirmed incidents in the third quarter compared with four a year earlier. Year to date, 32 confirmed anti-Muslim hate crimes have been recorded, an increase of 77.8%.

The NYPD distinguishes between hate crimes that are reported and those ultimately confirmed following investigation. Its Hate Crime Task Force reviews allegations and works with the department’s Legal Bureau to determine whether incidents meet New York State’s legal definition of a hate crime. Police say separating the two categories is intended to provide greater transparency.

The latest figures come as New York’s Jewish community remains under heightened security following the October 7, 2023 Hamas attack and amid continued concerns about antisemitism. Tisch said the NYPD deployed an unprecedented number of officers around virtually every synagogue during the recent High Holy Days and pledged continued protection for Jewish institutions as the third anniversary of October 7 approaches.

The hate-crime statistics were released alongside a broader NYPD report showing significant declines in traditional crime.

Through September, the city recorded 203 murders, 489 shooting incidents and 594 shooting victims, all described by the NYPD as record lows for the first nine months of a year. Major crime overall fell 6.6%, from 92,057 incidents during the same period last year to 86,023 this year.

Several major crime categories also declined, including robbery, burglary, grand larceny and grand larceny auto. The Bronx recorded the largest borough-level decline, with major crime down 11.9%.

Mayor Zohran Mamdani and Tisch highlighted the overall crime reductions while acknowledging that hate crimes remain a significant area of concern.

The statistics come just days after Mamdani unveiled New York City’s first municipal strategy specifically focused on combating antisemitism. The plan includes increased funding for hate-crime prevention, additional security for synagogues and other houses of worship, Holocaust education and investments in Jewish cultural institutions.

With the November 3, 2026 General Election approaching, New York voters should take note of several important deadlines for voter registration, early voting and absentee or early mail ballots.

Here are the key dates and official resources for voters in Nassau County and throughout New York:

Voter Registration

The deadline to register to vote for the General Election is October 24, 2026. Registration applications must be received by the Board of Elections by that date. Register to Vote

Early Voting

New York’s nine-day early voting period runs from Saturday, October 24 through Sunday, November 1. Voters in Nassau County may vote at any designated early voting location within the county. Nassau County Early Voting Information

Absentee or Early Mail Ballots

Voters who qualify can request an absentee ballot or early mail ballot. Applications submitted by mail or online must be received by October 24. Those applying in person may do so through November 2. Apply for an Early Mail or Absentee Ballot

Completed ballots can be mailed with a postmark no later than Election Day, November 3, or returned in person to a Board of Elections office or polling location by 9 p.m. on November 3.

Election Day

The General Election will be held on Tuesday, November 3, 2026. Polls across New York will be open from 6 a.m. to 9 p.m.

Find Your Polling Location

Voters can use the New York State Board of Elections voter lookup tool to confirm their registration, find their Election Day polling location and access other voter information. Election Day Voting Location Lookup

For the latest official election information and deadlines, visit the New York State Board of Elections.

JetBlue Airways is set to expand its presence at New York’s LaGuardia Airport after the Federal Aviation Administration approved its acquisition of 22 takeoff and landing slots previously held by Spirit Airlines.

The FAA determined that transferring the slots serves the public interest and will not increase the airport’s overall number of permitted operations. However, JetBlue will be prohibited from leasing, selling or otherwise transferring the slots to another airline until April 2028.

JetBlue secured the slots through a bankruptcy court-supervised auction, paying $58.5 million to beat a competing bid from Frontier Airlines. The sale was approved by a bankruptcy judge in July but required federal aviation approval before it could be finalized.

Spirit, once one of the country’s largest ultra-low-cost carriers, ceased operations on May 2, 2026, as part of its liquidation following its bankruptcy proceedings.

For JetBlue, the newly acquired LaGuardia access could significantly increase its schedule at one of the nation’s most slot-constrained airports. The airline has said the additional slots could allow it to operate up to **12 additional daily round trips** from LaGuardia beginning in 2027.

The move gives JetBlue an opportunity to strengthen its New York network while filling capacity left behind following Spirit’s exit from the market.

Israel’s consul general in New York, Ambassador Ofir Akunis, has invited Mayor Zohran Mamdani to attend a New York screening of a 47-minute IDF-produced film documenting the October 7, 2023 Hamas attack.

The invitation comes as the third anniversary of the attack approaches. The film includes footage recorded by Hamas terrorists themselves during the assault, offering graphic documentation of the events.

Akunis extended the invitation during an October 7 memorial event hosted by the Israeli Consulate and also sent Mamdani a formal letter. In the letter, Akunis sharply criticized the mayor’s public positions on Israel and argued that his rhetoric has contributed to an increase in antisemitism in New York.

“Your words against the State of Israel are a significant factor in the rise of antisemitism in New York,” Akunis wrote.

He urged Mamdani to view the footage firsthand, saying he hopes it will provide a clearer understanding of the October 7 attack and Israel’s stated rationale for defending itself.

“Perhaps after watching this film, you will understand why the existence of the State of Israel as the state of the Jewish people is so important and why we will continue to defend ourselves at any cost.”

Akunis also publicly challenged Mamdani to attend the screening, saying it could allow the mayor to see the events of October 7 through footage captured during the attack itself.

The invitation comes amid an increasingly public disagreement between Akunis and Mamdani over Israel, antisemitism and the mayor’s approach to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. Mamdani recently unveiled a citywide strategy aimed at combating antisemitism, while Israeli officials and some Jewish organizations have criticized his approach to Israel-related antisemitism.

Will Mamdani come?!

— Ofir Akunis (@Ofir_Akunis) October 6, 2026

A suspected criminal assassination attempt in Jerusalem on Tuesday morning left a well-known figure from the Israeli underworld and his 13-year-old son seriously injured after an explosive device detonated inside or near their vehicle.

The blast occurred shortly after 8:15 a.m. on Meir Feinstein Street in the Armon Hanatziv neighborhood as Itzik Bar Mocha was reportedly driving his son to school. Police identified the incident as a suspected targeted attack and assigned the Jerusalem District Central Unit to lead the investigation.

🚨🇮🇱 Car explodes in Jerusalem

Hebrew media report that two people were injured in a car explosion on Meir Feinstein Street. Authorities are treating the incident as criminal. https://t.co/sy2XwGdscx

— The Daily Brief News (@TDBNEWS1) October 6, 2026

Bar Mocha, 58, has long been associated with the former “Jerusalem Gang” and has been involved in a number of major criminal cases and disputes within Israel’s organized-crime world. He previously served a lengthy prison sentence and in recent years was involved in conflicts with other prominent criminal figures.

Magen David Adom teams arriving at the scene found the vehicle on fire, with debris scattered nearby. Both victims were conscious and suffering from burns and traumatic injuries before being transported to Hadassah Ein Kerem for treatment. The boy was initially reported in moderate condition, while later reports said both father and son were in serious condition.

Video from the scene showed Bar Mocha on the roadway near the burning vehicle, calling for assistance while his injured son was nearby.

Police investigators and bomb-disposal experts secured the area and began collecting evidence to determine how the explosive was placed and who was behind the attack. Investigators are treating the incident as criminally motivated, rather than terrorism, according to initial reports.

A sweeping gag order issued by the Jerusalem Magistrates’ Court prohibits publication of details from the investigation or information that could identify potential suspects. The order is currently in effect through October 12.

The police said Jerusalem District Commander Superintendent Avshalom Peled arrived at the scene and ordered the Central Unit to take charge of the investigation and pursue those responsible.

Besuros Tovos!

The New York Yankees are facing elimination after another difficult night at the plate and in the field, falling 5-2 to the Tampa Bay Rays on Monday in Game 2 of the American League Division Series.

The loss puts Tampa Bay ahead 2-0 in the best-of-five series, leaving the Rays just one victory away from advancing to the AL Championship Series. The Yankees will return home for Game 3 on Wednesday night needing three straight wins to keep their season alive.

New York’s defense unraveled in the fifth inning, allowing Tampa Bay to turn a 1-1 game into a four-run lead. Richie Palacios delivered the biggest blow with a two-run single after a pair of costly defensive mistakes by rookie shortstop George Lombard Jr.

Lombard committed two errors in the inning, including a wild throw to first that extended the frame. Earlier, Chandler Simpson reached on Lombard’s first error, allowing a run to score. After Cam Schlittler was pulled, Palacios brought home two more runs to put Tampa Bay ahead 5-1.

Schlittler, who has emerged as one of the American League’s top pitchers and a potential Cy Young candidate, was charged with four runs—only two earned—over 4⅓ innings.

The Yankees’ offense again struggled without Aaron Judge, who remains sidelined with a calf injury. New York has managed only two runs through the first two games of the series.

Ben Rice provided both of those runs, launching two solo home runs. His first came in the fourth inning, ending the Yankees’ scoreless stretch in the postseason. He added another homer later in the game, but New York could not generate a rally.

The Yankees also endured a bizarre moment in the second inning when Spencer Jones hit a fly ball that struck a catwalk at Tropicana Field before being caught by Tampa Bay outfielder Victor Mesa. Under the stadium’s ground rules, the umpires ruled Jones out.

New York’s defensive struggles began even earlier, with the Yankees committing three errors in the first inning—an extremely rare postseason occurrence.

Tampa Bay received a strong pitching performance from Freddy Peralta, who allowed just one run and three hits over 4⅔ innings. The Rays’ bullpen then shut the door, with Bryan Baker recording the save.

The Yankees now face a must-win Game 3 at Yankee Stadium.

Game 3: Yankees LHP Max Fried (5-5, 2.80 ERA) vs. Rays RHP Nick Martinez (15-6, 3.10 ERA).

Gov. Kathy Hochul has declared a statewide disaster emergency over a growing measles outbreak, with cases increasingly concentrated in rural communities where vaccination rates are lower.

New York has recorded 108 confirmed measles cases through October 3, including 101 outside New York City and seven within the five boroughs. Since July 15 alone, 92 cases have been identified across 18 rural counties, prompting local health departments to administer more than 1,000 MMR vaccine doses.

The emergency order, which remains in effect through November 4, broadens the pool of healthcare professionals who can help respond to the outbreak. Pharmacists will be permitted to vaccinate children as young as two, while registered nurses can order measles testing. The order also requires MMR vaccinations to be reported to state or city immunization registries within 72 hours.

The situation comes as measles cases have surged nationwide. Nearly 3,900 cases have been reported across the U.S. in 2026, the highest annual total in decades. Neighboring Pennsylvania has been particularly hard hit, with more than 1,000 cases and five reported deaths.

Hochul said the emergency declaration is intended to give health officials additional tools to contain the outbreak.

“No one should get seriously ill or die from a vaccine-preventable disease,” Hochul said. “That is why I have taken steps to increase the number of health professionals who can vaccinate and test.”

Hochul also received her flu shot Monday and encouraged New Yorkers to stay up to date on recommended vaccinations as respiratory-virus season approaches.

The Importance of Values and Environment

Don Ghermezian, CEO of American Dream, shared a personal story on Vayimaen about the importance of safeguarding one’s environment and values. He recounts a family trip to a hotel in Florida where he felt the environment was not right for his family. To ensure their Tzniyus and Kedusha, he paid a significant amount of money to rent a private pool for two weeks and had the area landscaped to prevent anyone from seeing into or out of the space.

During the same trip, Ghermezian faced a challenge when his uncle asked him to bring three additional family members to the Super Bowl, despite him having only four tickets. While trying to figure out how to accommodate everyone without paying a fortune for more tickets, he was approached by Brian Glazer, owner of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Glazer unexpectedly offered him seven free tickets in a row, stating he felt God wanted the Ghermezian family to have them.

Ghermezian notes that the total cost of the seven tickets plus the sale of his original four perfectly equaled the exact amount he had spent to rent and landscape the pool for his family’s privacy, a whopping $238,000! He concludes that whenever someone makes a sacrifice to maintain their personal standards or avoid temptation, they will eventually be rewarded by Hashem.

9:15 AM Update – The fire appears to be under control now. One of the initial reports indicated a fire involving the HVAC area in the rear of the building.

The cause is still being investigated, and surrounding blocks appear to be blocked off, Central until Maple.

The stores on that side of Cedarhurst Ave are not operational right now, including Central Perk, Suit Lady and others. Call ahead before heading to a store in that area today to make sure they are open.

More updates to follow.

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8:50 AM – There is an active large fire coming from a building on Cedarhurst Ave, avoid the area!

Poland’s Embassy in Washington is demanding that Tucker Carlson publicly withdraw comments about Nazi Germany’s 1939 invasion of Poland, accusing the American commentator of distorting the historical record and minimizing the significance of Hitler’s aggression.

In a sharply worded letter dated October 5, Bogdan Klich, Poland’s chargé d’affaires, said he was “outraged” by Carlson’s recent discussion with British politician Jacob Rees-Mogg. Carlson questioned Britain’s decision to enter World War II and argued that Hitler had legitimate reasons for invading Poland, pointing to German territorial claims.

The Polish diplomat wrote:

“As an American journalist who enjoys the democratic right to the freedom of speech, you have now become an apologist for Adolf Hitler.”

Klich accused Carlson of relying on Nazi-era claims while ignoring the broader circumstances surrounding Germany’s invasion of Poland on September 1, 1939.

The letter continued:

“In doing so, you resort to lies, completely falsifying the documented historical record.”

Klich also rejected Carlson’s suggestion that Britain’s entry into the war was unnecessary, arguing that Nazi Germany’s aggression extended far beyond its territorial claims and was part of a broader campaign of conquest.

The Polish Embassy said Carlson’s comments were particularly offensive given the enormous number of victims of Nazi Germany, including millions of Polish civilians and Jews, as well as American servicemen who fought against the Third Reich.

Klich demanded that Carlson:

“immediately and publicly retract and apologize for these deceitful and disgraceful statements.”

He concluded with a warning about the consequences of distorting history:

“History must not be distorted. Those who cannot remember the past are condemned to repeat it.”

Carlson has not publicly responded to the Polish Embassy’s demand as of Monday evening.

Former hostage Avinatan Or has revealed that he spent approximately six months secretly preparing an escape attempt while being held by Hamas in Gaza following his abduction on October 7, 2023.

In an interview with Israel’s Uvda, Or described being held in an underground cell in near-total darkness. While searching his surroundings, he noticed air coming through a section of what appeared to be a sandbag wall.

“That doesn’t happen in a tunnel,” Or recalled thinking.

He began secretly digging through the wall, using whatever materials were available to him. For months, he worked while using a garbage bag to shield himself from a security camera. He also used a roughly 60-meter extension cable as a makeshift digging tool.

Or quietly prepared for the possibility that he might actually escape. He packed clothes into a bag, marked another sack with the word “Hostage,” and even wrote a will and letters to his parents in case he was killed during the attempt.

Eventually, Or managed to break through the barrier, but Hamas guards discovered him before he could get away and recaptured him.

He said his treatment became even more brutal afterward, describing beatings, torture and severe food deprivation.

Or was eventually released roughly a year after being taken hostage.

In another striking moment during his captivity, Or said a Hamas terrorist told him to say goodbye to his family and friends and leave Israel for Europe, warning that Hamas would carry out another October 7-style attack against Israelis as long as Jews remained in the country.

Or said he refused.

“I’m not leaving.”

He then asked the terrorist whether he planned to leave Gaza for Egypt once the war ended. When the terrorist replied that he would remain because Gaza was his home, Or responded:

“Excellent, this is my home, too.”