The Eruv of Monsey released its weekly inspection report after severe storms over the weekend caused significant damage to the Eruv system. Heavy rain, strong winds, and fallen trees damaged utility wires and Eruv strings in numerous locations throughout the community.

On Monday morning, Eruv inspectors surveyed all affected areas to assess the damage and prioritize repairs. Since then, maintenance crews have been working throughout the week to restore the Eruv ahead of Shabbos. Officials also thanked Orange and Rockland Utilities for its prompt response in securing damaged utility poles, removing fallen trees and large branches, and assisting with repairs.

According to the report, 23 issues were identified this week. Of those, 20 were classified as not kosher and required immediate repair, while three were lower-priority maintenance items. Most repairs have already been completed, though a small number of locations remain pending utility company work before final repairs can be finished.

In Suffern, crews completed two repairs along Woodland Drive, installing a new PVC after fence covering was removed and clearing branches from utility wires and Eruv strings.

The Good Samaritan Hospital Rambam Eruv remains temporarily not kosher while crews await Orange & Rockland to remove a large branch resting on utility wires along Route 59 near Liberty before repairs can be completed.

In Airmont, crews repaired tangled wires on Church Road and restored the Eruv string along West Saddle River Road after removing branches. Chestnut Ridge crews completed three repairs, including trimming branches at two locations on Chestnut Ridge Road and untangling the Eruv string from nearby utility wires.

Pearl River crews removed branches pressing against the wires on Gary Drive and replaced a cracked PVC along Old Highland Avenue. No repairs were required this week in the Montebello, Nanuet Rambam, New Hempstead, or Haverstraw sections.

Within the Monsey Rambam Eruv, crews repaired several Eruv strings along Route 306 that had been damaged by fallen trees and large branches. Officials noted that existing poles remained in excellent condition and did not require replacement.

In Spring Valley, crews repaired fencing along the New York State Thruway after trees fell onto it and replaced a damaged PVC on South Pascack Road. In the Spring Valley Rambam section, a new cap was installed after an Eruv string shifted out of position.

The Wesley Hills Eruv remains temporarily not kosher while awaiting Orange & Rockland to remove a large branch resting on utility wires along Route 202. In New City, Orange & Rockland removed numerous fallen trees and branches from utility wires around South Mountain Road and Little Tor Road. Final confirmation is still pending that one remaining large branch has been cleared before repairs can be completed and the section can be confirmed kosher.

In Hillcrest, crews cleared branches tangled in the Eruv string along West Clarkstown Road and restored the line.

Eruv officials expressed appreciation to their volunteer inspectors, repair crews, and the Orange & Rockland utility teams for their extensive efforts throughout the week. They noted that repairs will continue as soon as utility crews complete the remaining work, and Monsey Scoop will provide an update once all sections of the Eruv have been fully restored and confirmed kosher ahead of Shabbos.

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A two-vehicle MVA involving an overturned vehicle has occurred on the southbound New York State Thruway between Exits 15 and 14B. Hillburn Fire Department, Tallman Fire Department, New York State Police, and Faist EMS are on the scene. Injuries were reported

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South Monsey Road is closed between Regina Road and Twin Lakes Drive due to downed live wires. Tallman Fire Department and Ramapo Police are on the scene, with Orange & Rockland crews responding.

The Village of Wesley Hills announced it will be closing its Free Little Library at Village Hall, an initiative that was launched in 2020 during the COVID-19 pandemic after local libraries temporarily closed.

According to Mayor Marshall Katz, the library initially saw significant use, allowing residents to borrow books and jigsaw puzzles donated by members of the community. In recent years, however, usage has declined, with the space primarily becoming a drop-off location for unwanted books rather than an active lending library.

Residents who would like to take books from the collection are invited to visit the Village Hall garage during regular weekday business hours, from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., over the next week. After that, the Village will clear out the space to accommodate other municipal needs.

Mayor Katz thanked residents for supporting the community initiative over the past several years.

Rockland Paramedic Services (RPS) is partnering with the New York Blood Center to host a community blood drive next month, encouraging residents to help strengthen the region’s blood supply and support patients in need across the Hudson Valley.

The blood drive will take place on Thursday, August 6, from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. at Rockland Paramedic Services headquarters, located at 17 Squadron Boulevard, Suite 410, New City. Community members are encouraged to register in advance using sponsor code 73494, though walk-ins will be accepted as space allows.

RPS officials say their paramedics witness firsthand how critical blood transfusions are for victims of serious motor vehicle crashes, traumatic injuries, medical emergencies, and other life-threatening situations. Executive Director Tim Egan said hosting the drive is another way the organization can serve the community beyond emergency response.

“Every day, our paramedics see how lifesaving donated blood can be,” Egan said. “When someone experiences severe trauma or another medical emergency, blood products are often a critical part of their treatment. We encourage everyone who is eligible to make an appointment and donate.”

According to the New York Blood Center, while more than 60 percent of New Yorkers are eligible to donate blood, only about two percent do. Because blood cannot be manufactured and blood products have limited shelf lives, hospitals rely on regular donations to maintain an adequate supply. A single blood donation can help save up to three lives.

As part of the New York Blood Center’s “Blood for a Brew” campaign, eligible donors will receive a voucher redeemable for a complimentary beverage at participating breweries, restaurants, or coffee shops.

Donors are encouraged to eat a healthy meal, stay hydrated, and bring a valid photo ID before donating. Those unable to attend the August 6 event can still support the drive by donating at a participating New York Blood Center donor center within one week of the event and using the Rockland Paramedic Services sponsor code so their donation is credited toward the campaign.

Spring Valley Police detectives arrested a 38-year-old man for the second time in just days after they allegedly caught him stealing from an unlocked vehicle while under surveillance.

According to police, Jean Pierremont, 38, who is undomiciled, was initially arrested on June 29 in connection with two separate larceny-from-vehicle investigations that occurred the same day. He was charged with Burglary in the Third Degree and Petit Larceny, arraigned before Judge Mellion, and remanded to the Rockland County Jail. He was later released on June 30.

Police say that on July 2 at approximately 5:23 p.m., two Spring Valley Police detectives observed Pierremont attempting to open the doors of several parked vehicles. Detectives then allegedly witnessed him enter an unlocked vehicle and remove property.

The detectives immediately intervened, took Pierremont into custody, and recovered the victim’s stolen cash.

Pierremont was charged with Petit Larceny and was arraigned before Judge Sweet, who remanded him to the Rockland County Jail.

The Spring Valley Police Department is asking anyone with information related to this incident to contact the department at 845-356-7400 or email [email protected].

Police are investigating a possible gunfire incident after multiple windows were found shattered near North Madison Avenue and Commerce Street on Thursday at approximately 2:25 p.m.

During the investigation, authorities also located a shell casing inside an office. Investigators have not yet determined when the shots were fired, and it remains unclear whether the shell casing is connected to the shattered windows.

The Spring Valley Police Department, assisted by the Rockland County Sheriff’s Office Bureau of Criminal Investigation (BCI), remained on scene Thursday afternoon as the investigation continued.

The investigation remains active. Monsey Scoop will provide updates as more information becomes available.

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Following the severe storms that swept through Rockland County over the weekend, the Eiruv of Monsey inspection and repair teams spent the week repairing widespread storm damage to ensure communities are prepared for Shabbos.

According to the weekly Eruv report, heavy rain, powerful winds, and fallen trees damaged utility wires and eruv strings in numerous locations. Inspectors surveyed the affected areas Monday morning, after which repair crews worked throughout the week to restore the eruv. The organization also thanked Orange & Rockland Utilities for its prompt response in removing hazardous trees and securing damaged utility infrastructure.

This week's summary:

* 23 issues identified

* 20 major repairs requiring immediate attention

* 3 low-priority issues

* Most repairs were completed before Shabbos, with a few locations still awaiting utility company work.

Area-by-area status:

* Suffern: Kosher. Two repairs completed, including restoration on Woodland Drive after fence work and removal of branches from utility wires.

* Good Samaritan Hospital – Rambam: Not Kosher. A large branch remains on utility wires along Route 59 near Liberty, pending Orange & Rockland removal.

* Airmont: Kosher. Repairs completed on Church Road and West Saddle River Road.

* Chestnut Ridge: Kosher. Three repairs completed, including branch trimming and untangling eruv strings.

* Pearl River: Kosher. Branches removed on Gary Drive and a cracked PVC replaced on Old Highland Avenue.

* Montebello: Kosher. No repairs were needed this week.

* Monsey – Rambam: Kosher. Three repairs completed along Route 306 after storm damage from fallen trees and branches.

* Spring Valley: Kosher. Repairs completed to the Thruway fence and South Pascack Road.

* Spring Valley – Rambam: Kosher. One repair completed after an eruv string shifted off center.

* Nanuet – Rambam: Kosher. No repairs were necessary.

* Wesley Hills: Not Kosher. A large branch remains on utility wires along Route 202, awaiting utility company removal.

* New Hempstead: Kosher. No repairs were required.

* New City: Not Kosher. Orange & Rockland removed multiple fallen trees, but final confirmation is still pending for a remaining branch on Little Tor Road.

* Hillcrest: Kosher. One repair completed on West Clarkstown Road.

* Haverstraw: Kosher. No repairs were necessary.

The Eiruv of Monsey thanked its inspection teams, repair crews, and Orange & Rockland Utilities for their efforts in restoring the eruv following one of the week's most significant storm-related repair operations.

Police are investigating after windows were reportedly shattered by gunfire near North Madison Avenue and Commerce Street. A shell casing was also found inside an office, though it is unknown when the shots were fired. Spring Valley Police and the Rockland County Sheriff’s Office BCI are on the scene. Updates to follow.

Congressman Mike Lawler has released the latest video in his series highlighting major federal investments secured for New York’s 17th Congressional District, this time focusing on more than $6 million in funding for the Rockland County Sheriff’s Office.

Rockland County Sheriff Louis Falco thanked Lawler for securing the federal funding, noting that the investment will provide critical equipment and resources to enhance public safety throughout the county.

“When our law enforcement officers have the resources they need, our entire community benefits,” Sheriff Falco said. “I’d like to thank Congressman Lawler for securing a little over $6 million in federal grant funding to help offset the cost of equipment and other critical needs to safeguard the people of Rockland County. This equipment will also be shared with law enforcement agencies throughout the county.”

Lawler said he fought to secure $4.2 million to strengthen the Sheriff’s Office’s crime prevention efforts, including funding for new police vehicles, essential equipment for a new reality-based public safety training facility, and the engineering and structural design work needed to advance the project.

An additional $2.6 million was secured to support construction of a modern reality-based training facility for the Rockland County Sheriff’s Office and local municipal police departments, providing enhanced training opportunities to strengthen law enforcement capabilities across Rockland County.

The more than $6 million investment is part of the $31 million in Fiscal Year 2026 federal appropriations Lawler secured for projects throughout New York’s 17th Congressional District. As previously reported by Monsey Scoop, the appropriations package included funding for numerous infrastructure, public safety, and community projects across the district.

Lawler said the investments will strengthen crime prevention efforts, improve community safety, and ensure law enforcement has the tools, equipment, and training needed to protect Rockland County families for years to come.

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A large tree branch, partially attached to a tree and blocking the sidewalk on Roman Boulevard, was quickly and efficiently removed after neighbors reported it to the Ramapo Highway Department. The obstruction had forced pedestrians into the roadway, creating a safety hazard. Under the leadership of Highway Superintendent Fred Brinn, the branch was promptly cleared, restoring safe passage along the sidewalk.

YSR

Police are investigating after windows were shattered at an office on North Madison Avenue and Commerce Street in Spring Valley, where a shell casing was also found inside.

Spring Valley Police and the Rockland County Sheriff’s Office BCI responded to the scene as the investigation got underway. It was not immediately clear when the shots were fired.

The owner of the Mesudar office told Rockland Daily that it all started Wednesday morning when he noticed a hole in the window. At first, he thought someone may have been doing work in the office, but after asking around, he learned that nobody had been working there.

After checking further and realizing the damage may have been caused by gunfire, the owner contacted police.

The investigation remains ongoing, and additional details were not immediately available.

An MVA occurred at the intersection of Maple Avenue and Park Lane. Spring Hill EMS and Ramapo Police responded to the scene. The crash resulted in minor injuries.

An MVA involving a school bus and a passenger vehicle occurred on the southbound Exit 12 off-ramp of the Palisades Parkway. One of the vehicles was reported to be smoking. Hillcrest Fire Department and New York State Police responded to the scene.

The traffic signal at the intersection of Route 306 and Lime Kiln Road is malfunctioning. The New York State Department of Transportation has been notified and is responding. Drive with caution in the area.

photos: Shulem Schwartz

Assemblyman Aron Wieder presented nearly $500,000 in state funding to Hatzolah of Rockland County this week for the purchase and outfitting of a new ambulance that will serve residents countywide.

The funding will cover the acquisition of the vehicle and all essential medical equipment. Hatzolah is the only volunteer ambulance service providing coverage to all of Rockland County and is known for its rapid response to emergency calls.

Speaking at Hatzolah headquarters, Assemblyman Wieder emphasized the organization’s impact on public safety.

“I’m pleased to present Hatzolah with funding for a new ambulance that will serve all of Rockland County,” Wieder said. “Hatzolah’s members save lives every day. They arrive on scene within minutes when called, and they deserve the full support of the state.”

Wieder credited Assembly Speaker Carl Heastie and Governor Kathy Hochul for their roles in securing the appropriation.

Hatzolah President Heshy Greenzweig thanked Wieder for his ongoing advocacy on behalf of emergency services.

“It’s an honor to thank Assemblyman Wieder for consistently supporting our community,” Greenzweig said. “Anyone who reaches out to his office receives assistance without delay, much like Hatzolah’s own mission. We appreciate his dedication to public service.”

The new ambulance will enhance Hatzolah’s capacity to deliver emergency medical care across Rockland County.

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A serious MVA has closed the northbound Palisades Parkway near Exit 9E. One patient is in traumatic arrest, and a Rockland Hatzolah member who came upon the scene immediately began CPR while calling for additional resources. One vehicle caught fire in the crash. Nanuet Fire, Hillcrest Fire, Hatzolah EMS, Nanuet EMS, Clarkstown Police, and New York State Police are on the scene. Avoid the area. A name for Tehillim is not needed in this incident.

YSR

The Town of Clarkstown will host its America 250 celebration tonight, Thursday, July 9, at Felix Festa Middle School in West Nyack.

The event is scheduled for 6:30 p.m. and will feature a patriotic drone show, a performance by the West Point Band, food, and activities for all ages.

The celebration is part of the town’s festivities marking America’s 250th anniversary, with the drone show expected to light up the night sky with patriotic displays.

Town officials said they are excited to mark the special occasion together with the community. The town also thanked Schultz Ford Lincoln Inc. of Nanuet, which is serving as the Freedom Sponsor for the event.

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Assemblyman Aron Wieder presented nearly $500,000 in state funding to Hatzolah of Rockland County this week for the purchase and outfitting of a new ambulance that will serve residents countywide.

The funding will cover the acquisition of the vehicle and all essential medical equipment. Hatzolah is the only volunteer ambulance service providing coverage to all of Rockland County and is known for its rapid response to emergency calls.

Speaking at Hatzolah headquarters, Assemblyman Wieder emphasized the organization’s impact on public safety. 

“I’m pleased to present Hatzolah with funding for a new ambulance that will serve all of Rockland County,” Wieder said. “Hatzolah’s members save lives every day. They arrive on scene within minutes when called, and they deserve the full support of the state.”

Wieder credited Assembly Speaker Carl Heastie and Governor Kathy Hochul for their roles in securing the appropriation.

Hatzolah President Heshy Greenzweig thanked Wieder for his ongoing advocacy on behalf of emergency services. 

“It’s an honor to thank Assemblyman Wieder for consistently supporting our community,” Greenzweig said. “Anyone who reaches out to his office receives assistance without delay, much like Hatzolah’s own mission. We appreciate his dedication to public service.”

The new ambulance will enhance Hatzolah’s capacity to deliver emergency medical care across Rockland County.

YSR

Two serious accidents occurred on the Palisades Interstate Parkway, one last night and another this morning, prompting emergency responses to the scenes.

The first accident happened last night on the Palisades Interstate Parkway northbound, just before Exit 12, leaving four people injured. New City Fire Department extricated the victims from the vehicles, while Hatzoloh and State Police responded to the scene for assistance.

This morning, another serious accident occurred on the Palisades Parkway in the area of Exit 9, where a vehicle went up in flames.

State Police, Nanuet Fire Department, and Hillcrest Fire Department responded to the scene, as Hatzoloh provided lifesaving care to an injured passenger.

The quick response by all emergency agencies in both accidents was critical in providing lifesaving care and assisting those injured.

A serious two-vehicle MVA occurred on the northbound Palisades Parkway on Wednesday evening at approximately 11:20 p.m., just before Exit 11, prompting a large emergency response.

Sources tell Monsey Scoop that both vehicles lost control before veering off the roadway and crashing into the wooded area alongside the parkway. Multiple occupants sustained injuries in the collision.

Hatzoloh EMS, New City EMS, the New City Fire Department, New York State Police, NYS Park Police, and Rockland Paramedics responded to the scene, where emergency personnel treated the injured and secured the crash site.

B’chasdei Hashem, despite the severity of the crash, none of the injuries were reported to be serious.

The cause of the crash remains under investigation.

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A serious two-vehicle MVA occurred on the northbound Palisades Parkway just before Exit 11, after both vehicles lost control and veered into the woods, leaving multiple people injured. Hatzoloh EMS, New City EMS, New City Fire Department, New York State Police, NYS Park Police, and Rockland Paramedics responded to the scene. B’chasdei Hashem, none of the injuries were reported to be serious.

The vulnerable adult who was the subject of an extensive multi-agency search earlier this week has been located safe.

According to the Orangetown Police Department, officers initially received a missing person report on July 5 after family members said they had not seen the man since July 3 and were unable to contact him. On July 6, officers located his vehicle near the Hudson River in Palisades, prompting a large-scale search involving the Orangetown Police Detective Bureau and UAV Team, the Rockland County Sheriff’s Marine and K-9 Units, the Piermont Fire Department Marine Unit, and the Palisades Interstate Parkway Police Marine Operations Bureau. The initial search did not locate the missing man.

The search continued through the morning of July 8, when Orangetown Police were contacted by a Bergen County hospital reporting that a patient matched the missing man’s description. Detectives responded and confirmed the individual was the missing man. He is safe and is currently receiving medical treatment.

Earlier today, a vehicle fire broke out at 33 Old Route 202. During the response, a firefighter went down and was treated by EMS at the scene. The Hillcrest Fire Department, Haverstraw Police, New York State Police, Haverstraw EMS, and Rockland Paramedics responded.

Hundreds gathered this afternoon to attend the levaya of 7-year-old Blima Weber A”H, who was tragically struck and killed by a school bus on Blauvelt Road in Monsey on Wednesday morning.

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South Spring Valley Fire Department and Ramapo Police responded late Tuesday evening to Chestnut Ridge Road after downed electrical wires caught fire.

The Eruv of Monsey sustained damage in multiple locations following the severe storms that swept through the area over the weekend, with heavy rain, strong winds, and fallen trees damaging utility wires and eruv strings throughout the community.

On Monday, Eruv officials toured the affected areas to assess the damage and determine the repairs needed. Crews are now working intensively to restore all affected sections and prepare the eruv for Shabbos.

In a statement, Eruv officials said they are hopeful that all repairs will be completed in time for Shabbos and that they will be able to announce on Erev Shabbos that the Eruv of Monsey and surrounding communities is fully repaired and kosher for use.

The damage comes as Rockland County continues recovering from the powerful July 4–5 storms, which left widespread power outages, downed trees, and extensive cleanup efforts across the county.

Yisroel R.

A section of the Palisades Interstate Parkway near Bear Mountain has been closed after heavy rain washed out part of the road.

The closure affects both directions of the parkway between Exit 19 (Perkins Memorial Drive) and the Bear Mountain Traffic Circle. Officials said the damage was caused by the heavy rainstorms that moved through the region Sunday into Monday.

All traffic is being detoured through Bear Mountain State Park to Route 9W, where drivers can reconnect to the traffic circle and the Bear Mountain Bridge.

Officials have not announced a timeline for reopening the roadway, and motorists traveling through the area should expect delays and use alternate routes when possible.

The Monsey community is mourning the heartbreaking petirah of Blima Weber, a 7-year-old girl who was struck and killed by a school bus on Blauvelt Road on Wednesday morning.

Blima A”H was the beloved daughter of Reb Yisroel Ephraim and Etty Weber. The tragic incident drew a massive emergency response, with Rockland Hatzolah paramedics, Ramapo Police, Chaverim Of Rockland  and other emergency personnel rushing to the scene. Rockland Hatzolah’s paramedics and EMTs did everything they possibly could to save her life, but despite their extraordinary efforts, she was sadly niftar.

In the aftermath of the tragedy, volunteers from Chesed Shel Emes, Misaskim, and Chaverim of Rockland responded to ensure proper kavod hameis and to assist the family during this incredibly difficult time.

UPDATE: The Levayah will take place today at 3:30p.m. at the Vizhnitzer Beis Hamedrash, 25 Phyllis Terrace, followed by the kevurah at the Vizhnitzer Beis HaChaim on Route 306.

Besuros Tovois!

A child was critically injured after being hit by a school bus on Blauvelt Road in Monsey on Wednesday morning at approximately 9:00 a.m.

Hatzoloh EMS, Ramapo Police, and other emergency personnel responded to the scene and immediately began lifesaving efforts. The child was reported to be in traumatic arrest.

The circumstances surrounding the incident remain under investigation.

Monsey Scoop will publish the child’s name for Tehillim as soon as it becomes available to us.

A child was struck by a school bus on Blauvelt Road. Hatzoloh EMS and Ramapo Police are on the scene. The child is reported to be in traumatic arrest and is in critical condition. Monsey Scoop will share the child’s name for Tehillim as soon as it becomes available.

The East Ramapo Central School District Board of Education voted unanimously Tuesday night to appoint Dr. Leslie Torres-Rodriguez as the district’s new Superintendent of Schools, effective July 8. Her contract runs through July 7, 2029.

Board President Shimon Rose praised Dr. Torres-Rodriguez as an experienced educational leader with a collaborative approach, saying she brings the expertise, energy, and compassion needed to help lead the district and serve its students, staff, and community.

Dr. Torres-Rodriguez joins East Ramapo after serving for eight years as Superintendent and CEO of Hartford Public Schools in Connecticut. During her tenure, the district expanded college and career pathways, increased internship opportunities, strengthened literacy instruction, grew leadership development programs, and improved its high school graduation rate by nearly 15 percentage points. Hartford also became the state’s leader in students earning the Seal of Biliteracy.

Nationally recognized for her work, Dr. Torres-Rodriguez was named the 2022 National Latino Superintendent of the Year by the Association of Latino Administrators and Superintendents and was honored by the National Puerto Rican Day Parade in 2024 for her contributions to educational leadership.

In a statement following her appointment, Dr. Torres-Rodriguez said she looks forward to meeting with educators, students, families, and community members throughout East Ramapo, emphasizing that lasting improvements are achieved by working together and ensuring every voice is heard.

Dr. Torres-Rodriguez currently serves as a lecturer in education studies at Yale University. She holds a doctorate in educational leadership from Central Connecticut State University and a Master of Social Work from the University of Connecticut. She began her career as a school social worker before serving as a principal and district administrator.

The East Ramapo Central School District serves approximately 10,000 public school students and 35,000 private school students in the Towns of Ramapo and Spring Valley.

Yisroel R.

A heartbreaking tragedy struck the Monsey community this morning when a 7-year-old girl, Blima Weber, was hit by a school bus on Blauvelt Road.

The child suffered traumatic arrest and Hatzoloh rushed to the scene, as emergency responders fought to save her life. Tragically, she did not survive.

What began as a regular summer morning, with the young girl heading to day camp, ended in an unimaginable tragedy.

Word of the devastating petirah quickly spread through Monsey, leaving the community shaken and heartbroken.

Boruch Dayan HaEmes.

Yisroel R.

A heartbreaking tragedy struck the Monsey community this morning when a 7-year-old girl, Blima Weber, was hit by a school bus on Blauvelt Road.

The child suffered traumatic arrest and Hatzoloh rushed to the scene, as emergency responders fought to save her life. Tragically, she did not survive.

What began as a regular summer morning, with the young girl heading to day camp, ended in an unimaginable tragedy.

Word of the devastating petirah quickly spread through Monsey, leaving the community shaken and heartbroken.

Boruch Dayan HaEmes.

By Y.M. Lowy

This week’s Dee Voch features comprehensive coverage of the major events throughout the world, including the Belzer Rebbe’s l’chaim tish after Shiva Asar B’Tammuz; the Satmar Rebbe’s departure for New Hampshire; the hanachas tefillin of the first grandson of the Rachmastrivka Rebbe; the Dushinsky Rebbe reciting Tikkun Chatzos; the wedding of a grandson of the Sanz-Zvhil Rebbe in Kiryas Sanz; the yahrtzeits of the Kapishnitz, Kretchnif, Bluzhev, and Zutchka Rebbes; the Vizhnitzer Rebbe of London at a Melaveh Malkah in Kiryas Skver; and an asifas rabbanim organized by the TAG International organization.

This week’s Shrift issue features an in-depth conversation with askanim R’ Chaim Fisher and R’ Chaskel Rosenberg about the ongoing effort to save Maimonides Medical Center in Boro Park. They discuss why the campaign is so critical, the challenges and opportunities ahead, the likelihood of success, and the impact the “Save Maimonides” campaign has already had.

This week’s Business Shrift features an interview with the founder of Air Seal Insulation. He shares how he built the company into a trusted name serving homeowners across the Tri-State area, helping protect homes from both extreme heat and cold through modern insulation solutions.

This week’s Fink magazine is filled with meaningful personal stories, practical advice, and thought-provoking features for heimishe women. Covering family, growth, health, and everyday life, the magazine offers engaging reading and uplifting content to enjoy throughout the week.

Get ready for another action-packed Kinder Shrift! This week’s edition is filled with exciting adventures, amazing discoveries, fun interviews, fascinating places, and plenty of surprises along the way.

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

Yisroel R.

After a long time without a permanent district leader, the East Ramapo School Board unanimously voted Tuesday night to appoint Dr. Leslie Torres-Rodriguez as the district’s new Superintendent of Schools.

Dr. Torres-Rodriguez officially begins today, July 8, under a three-year contract that runs through July 2029. Her appointment gives East Ramapo a permanent superintendent after the district had been operating without one since 2024.

The vote comes after a lengthy search process, including an earlier setback this year when state-appointed monitors rejected a previous candidate backed by the Board, sending the district back into the search process before Tuesday night’s unanimous approval.

Board President Shimon Rose welcomed Dr. Torres-Rodriguez in a statement, saying the Board was proud to recommend her after an “extensive and thoughtful search process.” Rose said the Board was pleased when the state monitors approved the unanimous selection.

Dr. Torres-Rodriguez brings years of experience in education and leadership, most recently serving for eight years as Superintendent and CEO of Hartford Public Schools in Connecticut. The district served about 17,000 students across 39 schools and employed more than 3,300 staff members.

Her leadership included work to increase graduation rates, expand opportunities for student success, and introduce curriculum and programming that reflected the backgrounds of the students and families served by the district.

Rose said the Board is confident that Dr. Torres-Rodriguez’s “experience, vision, and dedication” will serve East Ramapo well as the district continues building on its strengths and creating greater opportunities for students.

“We look forward to working alongside her as we write the next chapter for our District,” Rose said, adding that the Board is excited for the future and confident that the district will continue moving forward together.

By Yisroel R.

Rockland County Environmental Resources will host a guided hike today at Samuel G. Fisher Environmental Park in Pomona.

The hike is scheduled for today, July 8, from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. at 75 Firemens Memorial Drive in Pomona.

The guided hike will take participants on a 2.5-mile, relatively flat route through what the county describes as the largest wetland in Rockland County.

Registration is required for the event. Additional parking will be available at the Rockland County Fire Training Center.

Residents seeking more information can contact Rockland County Parks at (845) 364-2670 or by email at [email protected].

The vehicle that was reported stolen has been recovered.

Be On The Lookout

A bear was spotted climbing a fence along Route 306 at Viznitz Cemetery.

An oven fire occurred earlier on Woodland Place. The Tallman Fire Department and Chaverim of Rockland responded to the scene.

A three-vehicle MVA occurred earlier at the intersection of West Maple Avenue and Viola Road. Hatzoloh EMS, Chaverim Of Rockland, and Ramapo Police responded to the scene. No injuries were reported.

An MVA occurred earlier today on West Maple Avenue and Viola Road, Hatzoloh EMS and Ramapo Police responded to the scene. Minor injuries were reported.

YS GOLD 

The Village of Spring Valley has appointed Moshe Dergel and Jaime Failing to the newly created position of Police Radio Dispatcher for the Spring Valley Police Department, with the appointments set to become effective immediately. 

The creation of the new positions reflects the village's continued investment in strengthening emergency communications and enhancing operational support for the Police Department. Police Radio Dispatchers play a critical role in receiving emergency calls, coordinating communications between officers and first responders, and dispatching police, fire, and EMS personnel to incidents as they unfold.

Now that they have been approved by the county, Dergel and Failing will assume responsibilities that are essential to ensuring timely and effective emergency response throughout the Village of Spring Valley. Dispatchers serve as the vital communications link between the public and emergency personnel, often making critical decisions while managing multiple incidents under pressure.

By Y.M. Lowy

Following the tragic petirah of 8-year-old Charlotte Herzberg a”h, who was struck and killed while riding her bicycle last month, her family made a decision that touched the community in an extraordinary way.

At the levayah, Charlotte’s father, Yudi Herzberg, spoke not about blame or anger, but about shalom. Although the accident involved one of his closest friends - a respected member of the community and longtime Hatzalah volunteer - he urged those gathered to reject division and instead strengthen achdus and peace between one another.

His message has since spread around the world.

The initiative, Shalom for Charlotte, is encouraging people to repair broken relationships in Charlotte’s memory. Participants are asked to make a phone call, send a message, offer an apology, or take a step toward reconciliation with someone from whom they’ve become distant.

Just over a month after Charlotte’s petirah, the response has been overwhelming.

According to the organizers, 2,441 Acts of Shalom have already been recorded by participants from more than 42 countries over the entire world! Families have shared stories of siblings reconnecting after years of silence, friends rebuilding relationships, and old disagreements finally coming to an end.

Taking the initiative even further and continuing its momentum, an event highlighting Charlotte's legacy and spreading the message of unity and shalom is scheduled to take place on Thursday, July 9, at 6:30 p.m. at Valley Terrace, 121 College Road in Suffern.

The evening will feature divrei chizuk from Rav Binyamin Eisenberger, Rav Heshy Kahan of Khal Zichron Chanina Getzel in Pomona East, and remarks from Charlotte's father, Yudi Herzberg. The event is open to both men and women, and admission is free.

Those who wish to participate in this movement, can visit ShalomForCharlotte.com to take the Shalom Pledge, record an Act of Shalom, and leave a message for the Herzberg family.

In a community that continues to feel Charlotte’s loss, organizers hope that every act of forgiveness, every repaired friendship, and every step toward peace will serve as a lasting zechus for Charlotte Herzberg, Shaindel bas Chaim Yehuda Leib a”h.

Following multiple crashes at the intersection of Yale Drive and Cragmere Road, work to remove the retaining wall that extends into the roadway is now scheduled to begin on Monday.

Airmont village officials confirmed to Monsey Scoop that equipment has already been delivered to the site. The project was delayed due to the rainy weather over the past several days, preventing crews from starting work as originally planned.

The retaining wall has long been a source of concern for nearby residents, who say it has contributed to numerous crashes at the intersection. After another rollover earlier this week, several residents urged local elected officials through Monsey Scoop to help ensure the approved project moved forward as quickly as possible.

With work now expected to begin Monday, residents are hopeful the long-awaited removal of the wall will improve safety and help prevent future accidents.

Airmont village officials confirmed to Monsey Scoop that equipment has been delivered to the site at the Yale Drive and Cragmere Road intersection. Although work was delayed due to the rainy weather over the past several days, crews are now expected to begin removing the retaining wall on Monday. The wall, which extends into the roadway, has been linked to multiple rollover crashes over the years and was previously approved for removal following ongoing safety concerns raised by residents.

Following Rockland Daily's coverage highlighting the dangers posed by the retaining wall on Cragmere Road, Town of Ramapo Supervisor Michael Specht told Rockland Daily that a temporary warning sign will be installed at the location following today's accident.

According to Specht, the sign is intended to alert motorists to the hazardous area and help reduce the likelihood of future crashes while the town evaluates a more permanent solution.

The announcement comes after another vehicle struck the retaining wall, renewing concerns about the safety of the roadway. Rockland Daily previously reported on a similar rollover at the same location and later covered residents' calls for improvements to help prevent additional accidents.

Following Rockland Daily's coverage highlighting the dangers posed by the retaining wall on Cragmere Road, Town of Ramapo Supervisor Michael Specht told Rockland Daily that a temporary warning sign will be installed at the location following today's accident.

According to Specht, the sign is intended to alert motorists to the hazardous area and help reduce the likelihood of future crashes while the village evaluates a more permanent solution.

The announcement comes after another vehicle struck the retaining wall, renewing concerns about the safety of the roadway. Rockland Daily previously reported on a similar rollover at the same location and later covered residents' calls for improvements to help prevent additional accidents.

Following Rockland Daily's coverage highlighting the dangers posed by the retaining wall on Cragmere Road, Town of Ramapo Supervisor Michael Specht told Rockland Daily that a temporary warning sign will be installed at the location following today's accident.

According to Specht, the sign is intended to alert motorists to the hazardous area and help reduce the likelihood of future crashes while the village evaluates a more permanent solution.

The announcement comes after another vehicle struck the retaining wall, renewing concerns about the safety of the roadway. Rockland Daily previously reported on a similar rollover at the same location and later covered residents' calls for improvements to help prevent additional accidents.

As previously reported by Monsey Scoop, the Village of Spring Valley Board of Trustees voted on May 13 to move forward with a dissolution study, marking the first step in a process that could eventually lead to a public referendum on whether the village should dissolve.

As part of that ongoing process, village officials will host a Public Informational Meeting tonight, Tuesday, July 7, from 6:00 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. at Village Hall, 200 North Main Street.

During the meeting, officials will explain the proposed dissolution process, discuss the potential impacts on residents and village services, answer questions from the public, and gather community feedback before the study moves forward.

Residents are encouraged to attend, ask questions, and share their input. Written comments may also be submitted by 4:00 p.m. today by mail to the Village Clerk’s Office or by email to [email protected].

The moment a tow truck lifts the overturned vehicle back onto its wheels following the crash at Yale Dr. and Cragmere Rd. in Airmont.

To the Editor of Rockland Daily,

Today’s rollover crash on Cragmere Road, where a woman was severely injured after her vehicle crashed into the low brick wall before flipping over, should serve as yet another wake-up call.

For years, residents have been raising concerns about the wall along this stretch of road. This is not the first vehicle to strike it, and many of us consider it a bor b’rshus harabim — a dangerous hazard sitting alongside a public roadway. Time after time, accidents have occurred here, yet the wall remains. Rockland Daily reported on a similar rollover at this location over a year ago and later reported on the community's push to have the wall removed, citing repeated safety concerns at the site.

To the village’s credit, progress has finally begun in recent weeks. Trees along the roadway have been removed to make room for a safer, wider road. We also appreciate the sidewalks that have already been added and the planned crosswalk improvements near the nursing home. These are important steps that will undoubtedly improve safety.

However, one major piece of the project remains unfinished: the wall.

For the past two weeks, residents have been hearing that the wall would be removed, but delays and confusion have left it standing. Sadly, before that work could be completed, another vehicle ended up crashing into it.

Thankfully, today’s crash did not end in the ultimate tragedy. But this road has been involved in too many close calls and accidents over the years. Especially when the road is empty and drivers move at a faster pace, one unexpected swerve can quickly turn into a dangerous crash. We should not wait for another serious accident before taking action.

If the wall cannot be removed immediately, then the area should be properly protected until it is. The community has waited long enough.

— A Concerned Monsey Resident

Join the Greater Monsey Community Women’s Tehillim tonight at 8:00 PM at Knesses Yisroel (Rabbi Schabes Shul), 698 Union Rd., to daven for Klal Yisroel, our soldiers, refuos, yeshuos, and more.

An overturned vehicle crash Tuesday morning has once again raised concerns about a long-standing traffic hazard at the intersection of Yale Drive and Cragmere Road in Airmont.

The crash occurred at approximately 11:30 a.m. and involved a vehicle that overturned near a retaining wall that extends into the roadway. The wall has been linked to multiple previous crashes at the intersection and was previously approved for removal, but the work has still not been completed.

Ramapo Police, Suffern Police, Hatzoloh EMS, Faist EMS, and the Tallman and Suffern Fire Departments responded to the scene and assisted those involved.

Several nearby residents told Monsey Scoop they are once again urging local elected officials to ensure the approved removal of the retaining wall is completed as quickly as possible before another serious crash occurs. Residents say the intersection has been the scene of numerous accidents over the years and believe immediate action is needed to improve safety.

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An MVA involving an overturned vehicle occurred at the intersection of Yale Drive and Cragmere Road, where a retaining wall extending into the roadway has been linked to multiple previous crashes. Although the wall was approved for removal, the work has yet to be completed. Ramapo Police, Suffern Police, Hatzoloh EMS, Faist EMS, and the Tallman and Suffern Fire Departments responded to the scene.

Several nearby residents told Monsey Scoop they are urging local elected officials to help ensure the approved removal of the retaining wall is completed as quickly as possible before another serious crash occurs, noting that the intersection has seen multiple accidents over the years.

A tree fell onto utility wires on Louis Avenue off College Road, completely blocking the roadway.

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An MVA involving a vehicle into a ditch occurred at Cragmere Road and Campbell Avenue. Tallman and Suffern Fire Departments, Ramapo Police, and Faist EMS responded. Minor injuries were reported.

By Y.M. Lowy

Dee Voch is preparing a special Israel Travel Guide, a comprehensive edition designed to connect readers with the businesses, services, and professionals who make travel to Eretz Yisroel smoother.

Whether you help people get there, assist once they arrive, or provide services along the way, this is your opportunity to be part of the guide readers will reference and rely on.

If your business is connected to Israel travel in any way, don’t miss this opportunity. Airlines, travel agencies, hotels, apartment rentals, tour guides, transportation services, attractions, restaurants, simcha planners, shopping, and every business serving travelers can benefit from being included.

Help travelers find your business. Reserve your place in this special guide and make sure your name is seen by tens of thousands of readers looking for trusted travel resources.

Ad Deadline: July 20

Publication Date: End of July

Call 718-305-5863 ext. 2 or email [email protected].

Don’t miss your chance to be part of the Israel Travel Guide—the edition readers will turn to before and during every trip.

Yisroel R.

The Town of Orangetown is moving toward stricter enforcement and new local rules for e-bikes and e-scooters, following growing safety concerns over riders speeding through streets, sidewalks, parks, and popular walking trails.

The issue has become a serious concern in recent months as more children and teenagers use electric bikes and scooters on local streets and often in areas shared with pedestrians, families, and young children. Town officials have raised concerns about high-speed riding, unsafe operation, sidewalk use, and the growing number of complaints connected to the devices.

Under New York State law, riders under 16 years old are not allowed to operate e-bikes or e-scooters. While the rule has been in place since the state legalized the devices in 2020, many parents and riders have not been aware that children under 16 are not legally allowed to ride them.

Orangetown is now preparing to put more attention on enforcement. Digital signs have been posted in the town to remind residents of the age rules, and officials are expected to begin cracking down on underage riding and other violations. Under the proposed local law, violations could carry fines, and devices used by riders under 16 could be impounded until a parent or guardian picks them up and pays a release fee.

A major focus of the discussion is the Joseph B. Clarke Rail Trail, a popular paved path used by walkers, joggers, bike riders, families, and children. Residents have raised concerns that e-bikes and scooters moving at high speeds on the trail create a danger for pedestrians, especially in crowded areas.

To address those concerns, the proposed Orangetown law would set new rules for where e-bikes and e-scooters can be used and how they must be operated. The draft law would require riders to yield to pedestrians, keep the devices off sidewalks except in limited situations, and restrict their use in parks and on town trails. It would still allow them on certain multi-use paths, including the Joseph B. Clarke Rail Trail, but with stricter speed limits and enforcement.

The Town Board has scheduled a public hearing for July 28 at 7:05 p.m. on the proposed local law, titled “Electric Bicycles and Electric Scooters.” The hearing will give residents an opportunity to weigh in before the town moves forward with adopting the new rules.

Staff from Senator Bill Weber’s office will be available from 12:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. at the Haverstraw King’s Daughters Public Library, Village Branch, 85 Main Street, to answer questions, assist with state-related matters, and help residents resolve constituent concerns.

Yisroel R.

The Piermont Fire Department is celebrating 175 years of service, marking a long history that dates back to the early days of the New York and Erie Railroad.

The first organized fire company in Piermont was formed around 1832 by employees of the New York and Erie Railroad, as railroad shops were being built in the area. The railroad organized its own fire department to protect its property, while local residents soon saw the need for a fire company to serve the village.

By 1851, the Village of Piermont had purchased fire equipment and began organizing a local fire company. Benjamin P. Westervelt served as the first foreman, or fire chief.

Piermont’s first piece of apparatus was purchased on October 25, 1851, for $630.10. The village’s first firehouse was built in 1853 at a cost of $700. In 1868, the village purchased two additional fire engines from the City of Albany, which took three months to be delivered and cost $1,704.08. One of the department’s oldest fire engines is on display today at the New York City Fire Museum.

Over the years, the department continued to grow and modernize, adding new fire engines, steam equipment, motorized apparatus, rescue vehicles, and other emergency equipment. The department also faced difficult moments, including a 1949 accident in Oradell, New Jersey, when a fire truck was wrecked on slippery pavement while returning from a parade, injuring 14 firefighters.

One of the most unique chapters in the department’s history came in 1956, when the Piermont Fire Department Underwater Rescue Team was formed following tragic drownings in the area. The team expanded the department’s role beyond fire response and added an important rescue service for the riverfront community.

As the department marks 175 years, its history reflects generations of volunteer firefighters, community support, and service to the Village of Piermont.

By Yisroel R.

The Village of Spring Valley will hold a public informational meeting tonight on the proposed dissolution of the village, a major issue that has been discussed by residents in recent years.

The meeting will take place tonight, July 7, from 6:00 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. at Village Hall, located at 200 North Main Street in Spring Valley.

According to the village, the meeting will include a presentation on the board-initiated proposed dissolution plan, followed by an opportunity for residents to ask questions, review information, and take part in the discussion.

The meeting marks a significant step in the discussion, as this is the first time the village itself is presenting a plan connected to its own potential dissolution. The proposal is expected to outline what the process would look like and how the village would be affected if the plan were to move forward.

The issue has drawn attention in Spring Valley as many residents have argued that dissolving the village could help address concerns over taxes and government costs. Others have raised questions about what such a move would mean for village services, policing, local operations, and a possible increase in Ramapo taxes if services shift to the town.

Tonight’s meeting is expected to give residents a clearer look at the proposed plan and how dissolution would affect the future of Spring Valley. Residents are encouraged to attend, ask questions, and understand what is being proposed.

Residents who cannot attend may submit written comments by 4:00 p.m. today to the Village of Spring Valley at 200 North Main Street, Spring Valley, NY 10977, or by email at [email protected]. Additional project information is available at springvalleydissolution.com.

By Rockland Daily Staff

The Ramapo Police Department has responded to a recent Rockland Daily reader letter calling for stronger enforcement against commercial truck traffic on Carlton Road and other residential streets.

In a statement provided to Rockland Daily, the department addressed the concerns raised by residents and outlined its ongoing enforcement efforts:

The Town of Ramapo appreciates residents taking the time to voice concerns regarding commercial truck traffic in our neighborhoods. While the writer cites the Village of Montebello as an example of strong enforcement of truck restrictions, it is important to note that the Ramapo Police Department also provides police services to the Village of Montebello. The same officers and traffic enforcement resources that patrol Montebello are responsible for enforcement throughout the Town of Ramapo and all communities we serve.

The Ramapo Police Department maintains a dedicated Traffic Safety Unit (TSU) that addresses a wide range of vehicle and traffic-related concerns throughout the Town. These responsibilities include enforcement related to speeding, stop sign and red-light violations, commercial vehicle restrictions, parking complaints, suspended or revoked operation, driving while intoxicated or impaired, and numerous other traffic safety matters that impact the quality of life in our communities. Over the past year, Ramapo police issued 16,816 traffic citations. At the same time, our officers must continually balance competing priorities and respond to the many public safety and quality-of-life concerns brought forward by the communities we serve.

Our Traffic Safety Unit routinely conducts targeted enforcement in areas where concerns and are reported, and we will be addressing the issues raised in the Carlton Road area as part of those ongoing efforts. Over the past year, the unit conducted 15 targeted initiatives focused specifically on commercial vehicle restrictions, combining education for drivers and operators with enforcement measures. Those efforts resulted in the issuance of nine citations to commercial vehicles operating on roadways where truck traffic was prohibited. And in addition to that, RPD partnered with the New York State Police Commercial Vehicle Enforcement Unit on a comprehensive truck enforcement detail. During that operation, commercial vehicles were inspected, weighed, and cited by State Police commercial vehicle enforcement troopers.

Residents are encouraged to follow the Ramapo Police Department's social media platforms, where we regularly share the results of targeted enforcement initiatives involving commercial vehicle traffic and other quality-of-life concerns throughout the Town. As we conduct additional enforcement efforts in the Carlton Road area, we will likewise share the results with the community, so residents remain informed about our actions and our continued commitment to improving safety and quality of life in our neighborhoods.

The severe storms that swept through Rockland County over the last days caused extensive damage to the Monsey Eruv, leaving numerous sections in need of repair ahead of Shabbos.

Eruv officials said that strong winds and heavy rain brought down many trees, utility wires, and poles, resulting in multiple breaks throughout the Eruv. Teams spent Monday surveying the community to assess the damage and determine the scope of the repairs required.

Work is now underway to restore all affected areas, with crews working intensively throughout the week. Officials expressed hope that all repairs will be completed in time for Shabbos and that an update confirming the Eruv's status will be issued before the start of Shabbos.

The Eruv damage comes as Rockland County continues to recover from the July 4-5 storms, which caused widespread power outages, downed trees, and hazardous road conditions across the region. Cleanup and utility restoration efforts remain ongoing in many areas.

By Yisroel R.

State Senator Bill Weber’s office will have staff available in Haverstraw today to assist residents with state-related questions and concerns.

The mobile office hours will take place from 12:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. at the Haverstraw King’s Daughters Public Library – Village Branch, located at 85 Main Street in the Village of Haverstraw.

Residents can stop by for help with issues involving state agencies, including the Department of Labor, DMV, tolling authorities, and other state-related matters.

Senator Weber’s office said constituent services representatives will be available throughout the afternoon, with both English- and Spanish-speaking representatives on hand to assist residents.

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Hillburn Fire Department and Ramapo Police were on the scene of a transformer explosion at 24 Suffern Rd. Orange & Rockland Utilities was requested to respond as crews worked to secure the area.

The moment a tow truck flips the overturned vehicle back onto its wheels after a two-car crash on Cypress Road in Suffern.

Emergency personnel responded to a two-car MVA on Monday evening at approximately 10:00 p.m. on Cypress Road, where one of the vehicles overturned.

Sources tell Monsey Scoop that two occupants were temporarily trapped inside the overturned vehicle but were able to self-extricate before rescuers arrived. Fortunately, no serious injuries were reported.

Suffern Police, the Suffern Fire Department, Faist EMS, and Rockland Paramedics responded to the scene to assist the occupants, secure the area, and investigate the cause of the crash.

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A two-vehicle MVA on Cypress Road left one vehicle overturned, temporarily trapping two occupants who were able to self-extricate before emergency personnel arrived. Suffern Police, Suffern Fire Department, Faist EMS, and Rockland Paramedics responded to the scene. No serious injuries were reported.

While the prolonged blackout in Pomona NY has exposed the shortcomings of those responsible for keeping the lights on, it has also revealed the very best of our community.

As countless families sat in dark homes, with no air conditioning, no way to cook, and mounting frustration, a few residents whose homes were fortunate enough to have generators looked around and asked a simple question: How can we help?

Without fanfare or publicity, they organized free hot meals, pizza, fries, and other food, and arranged for them to be delivered directly to the homes of families still without electricity.

In a time when so many were focused on what they had lost, these neighbors focused on what they could give.

Their generosity reminded us that while electricity can illuminate a house, kindness illuminates a community. Long after the power is restored and the inconvenience is forgotten, people will remember the neighbors who turned their good fortune into an opportunity to care for others.

Blackouts have a way of revealing what truly powers a community. This week, it wasn’t Orange & Rockland. It was the compassion, generosity, and sense of responsibility that neighbors showed one another.

That is the light no outage can extinguish.

Ramapo Police and the Tallman Fire Department responded to burning utility wires on Twin Lakes Drive. The incident left 146 Orange & Rockland customers without power. Estimated restoration is 10:00 a.m. Tuesday.

An impatient driver was caught using the sidewalk to bypass traffic at the intersection of Route 59 and Robert Pitt Drive in Monsey.

A tree fell on Route 59 near South Cole Avenue, blocking one lane and causing heavy traffic. Volunteers from Chaverim of Rockland quickly removed the tree with assistance from the Spring Valley Police Department, reopening the roadway.

A large multi-agency search is underway after police located a vehicle believed to belong to a person who has been missing since July 1.

At approximately 3:00 p.m. Monday, Orangetown Police responded to a 911 call reporting a suspicious vehicle that had been parked in front of a residence on Washington Spring Road for an extended period. After checking the vehicle’s registration, officers determined it belonged to the missing individual.

Authorities are investigating the incident as a possible suicide and believe the person may have entered the Hudson River, prompting an extensive search on land, in the air, and on the water.

The search involves the Orangetown Police Department, K-9 units, the Rockland County Sheriff’s Office Drone Unit and Marine Unit, the Sparkill Fire Department, the Piermont Marine Unit, and the New Jersey Palisades Interstate Parkway Police Marine Unit.

The investigation remains active. Monsey Scoop will continue to monitor the situation and provide updates as more information becomes available.

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Police responded to a 911 call for a suspicious vehicle that had been parked in front of a residence on Washington Spring Road for an extended period.

After checking the license plate, officers determined the vehicle belonged to person who has been reported missing since July 1.

Authorities are investigating the case as a possible suicidal incident and believe the individual may have entered the Hudson River, prompting a major search involving Orangetown Police, K-9 units, the Rockland County Sheriff’s Office Drone and Marine units, Sparkill Fire Department, the Piermont Marine Unit, and the New Jersey Palisades Interstate Parkway Police Marine Unit.

There comes a point when frustration gives way to outrage. Orange & Rockland has crossed that line.

Our neighborhood in Pomona, New York, lost power at approximately 7:00 p.m. on Saturday. Yet the first Orange & Rockland representative did not arrive until Sunday afternoon, nearly twenty-four hours later. And even then, the only visible action was to close the road. It was only hours after that before utility crews finally began arriving. Meanwhile, families remained in dark homes, refrigerators warmed, food spoiled, and an entire community was left wondering when help would finally come.

As of this writing, power still has not been restored.

Instead of meaningful communication, customers have been subjected to an endless cycle of false hope. We receive text messages with estimated restoration times, only to watch each deadline pass before another notification arrives pushing the estimate back yet again. These are not updates; they are broken promises repeated over and over.

This outage has become far more than an inconvenience. It has disrupted lives and imposed significant financial and emotional hardship on countless families. With temperatures reaching dangerous levels, many residents have had no choice but to relocate their families to relatives’ homes. Others have been forced to spend hundreds, if not thousands, of dollars on hotel rooms simply to escape the heat and provide a safe place for their children and elderly family members.

The consequences extend even further. Many homes in Pomona rely on sump pumps to keep basements dry. Those pumps typically have battery backups that last only a few hours. After that, without electricity, homeowners are left defenseless against rising water. As a result, some families are now dealing not only with prolonged power outages but also flooded basements and the costly property damage that follows.

The most infuriating part is that this decline in service comes as our electric bills continue to climb. Orange & Rockland has had no difficulty asking customers to pay more. Yet when those same customers need the company most, the response has been painfully slow, poorly communicated, and seemingly devoid of urgency.

At this point, the only thing residents have come to expect is another photo opportunity: elected officials posing in hard hats beside an Orange & Rockland cherry picker while the lights remain off. The community doesn’t need another staged photograph or reassuring press release—we need electricity, honest communication, and a utility company capable of responding to a crisis with the urgency it demands.

Electricity is not a luxury. It powers medical equipment, preserves medication and food, enables communication, protects homes from flooding, and provides the most basic necessities of modern life. A utility company enjoys the privilege of operating as a regulated monopoly because the public depends on it. That privilege carries with it an obligation to provide competent, reliable, and timely service, especially during emergencies.

The residents of Pomona deserve answers. Why did it take nearly a full day before anyone from Orange & Rockland appeared on the scene? Why were restoration estimates repeatedly issued and then abandoned? Why does it appear that customers are expected to accept higher rates while receiving lower standards of service?

This should not be dismissed as an unfortunate inconvenience. It reflects a deeply troubling pattern in which customer service has deteriorated while costs have steadily increased. Ratepayers are not asking for perfection. We are asking for competence, transparency, accountability, and a response that reflects the seriousness of the crisis facing the people who depend on this essential service.

Orange & Rockland owes this community more than another automated text message with yet another delayed restoration estimate. It owes us an explanation, accountability for this failure, and, most importantly, a commitment that no community will ever again be left to endure this level of neglect.

— A Furious Pomona Resident

The views expressed in this letter do not necessarily represent those of Monsey Scoop. Have an opinion you’d like to share? Send it to us for review.

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A tree fell onto utility wires at Hilltop Lane and Briarcliff Drive and is actively burning. Monsey Fire Department and Ramapo Police are on the scene, and Orange & Rockland has been requested.

By Y.M. Lowy

In the last article, we looked at the 1976 ceremony in Monsey where Rabbi Yehuda “Yudel” Weberman spoke about the gratitude Holocaust survivors felt toward America during the burial of the new Bicentennial time capsule. This week, we step back to explore the remarkable background that shaped Rabbi Weberman himself.

Rabbi Yehuda “Yudel” Weberman would eventually become one of Monsey’s most recognizable askanim, but the mesiras nefesh that defined his life stretched back generations before him.

His father, Reb Bentzion Weberman z”l, was considered an extraordinary figure in early American Jewry during the years before World War II. Although he himself had been born in America, a rarity for frum Jews at the time, Reb Bentzion refused to compromise on Yiddishkeit despite the enormous pressures he faced while keeping mitzvos in those years.

In the period following World War I, a towering spiritual figure arrived in America from Russia: Harav Hagaon Rav Chaim Avraham Dov Ber Levine zt”l, widely known as “The Malach.”

The nickname reflected the almost otherworldly image he projected. Stories about the Malach’s intense holiness spread quickly. He slept very little, barely ate, and lived with an extreme level of separation from gashmius. His talmid, Harav Yaakov Schorr zt”l, later recalled that after davening during the Yamim Noraim, the floor around the Malach would be soaked from the tears he shed in prayer.

As young bochurim learning in Yeshiva Torah Vodaas in Williamsburg, Yudel Weberman and his older brother, Reb Meir Weberman z”l, began traveling weekly to the Bronx where the Malach served as rav of Nusach HaAri Shul.

The Weberman family became deeply attached to the Malach and his teachings.

“My father considered himself like a child of the Malach,” recalled Reb Shmuel Yitzchak Weberman years later. “We were practically like grandchildren.”

Under the Malach’s influence, the Weberman brothers and other students began adopting a visibly chassidish appearance and lifestyle. They wore their tzitzis outside, grew long peyos and beards, and dressed in chassidish levush.

Today, such sights are common throughout frum communities in America. But in those years, the broader American culture was far less accepting.

Newspapers mocked the young men as extremists and fanatics, accusing them of dragging America backward. The students endured ridicule, harassment, and even physical attacks because of their appearance. Still, they refused to back down.

Eventually, the administration of Torah Vodaas became alarmed as more students were drawn toward the Malach and began adopting the same chassidish style and passionate approach to Yiddishkeit. School leaders feared that parents would remove their children and that financial supporters would stop donating to the yeshiva and so the decision was ultimately made to expel the group.

But the bachurim, who became known as “The Malachim,” remained determined. Rather than abandoning their ideals, they established their own yeshiva called Nesivos Olam.

For years, the yeshiva wandered from one temporary location to another until one of the Malach’s students purchased the building at 205 Hewes Street in Williamsburg, which remains a center for the Malachim Kehilla.

“They were the ones who did the hard work of preparing the ground for American Yiddishkeit,” Reb Shmuel Yitzchak later reflected. “With their mesiras nefesh, they paved the way for the Jews who came after the war. Today we are enjoying the fruits of their sacrifice. Hazorim b’dimah b’rinah yiktzoru. Thanks to them, yidden in America can serve Hashem openly and proudly.”

Rockland Daily’s “Unearthing the Past” series will continue exploring the people, places, memories, and hidden stories connected to Monsey’s historic time capsule, preserving the history that helped shape Monsey into the town it is today. As 2026 marks 50 years since the 1976 reopening, Monsey is once again drawing closer to revisiting that historic moment.

An MVA occurred at the intersection of Clinton Street and Bethune Boulevard. Spring Valley Police and Spring Hill EMS were on the scene. Minor injuries were reported.

photos: Avrumi Berger

Orange and Rockland Utilities, Inc. (O&R) emergency response teams have been working throughout the night to restore power to customers impacted by this weekend’s thunderstorms and soaring temperatures.

O&R's emergency response crews, which include overhead line technicians, vegetation removal experts, and nearly 160 mutual aid crew members, have restored power to more than 40,000 of the 42,161 customers impacted by the thunderstorms and extreme heat that preceded them. Our dedicated teams remain focused on completing current restorations and safely returning power to all our communities. As of 6:00 a.m., approximately 1,810 O&R customers remain without power in the following areas:

Current Outages in Rockland County: 475

• Pomona: 113
• Clarkstown: 109
• Ramapo: 67
• Orangetown: 53

O&R Warns

For safety’s sake, O&R warns the public not to touch or approach any downed wire. Assume the wire is energized and dangerous. Call O&R immediately toll-free 1-877-434-4100. Depending on the situation, you may also consider calling your local police to divert traffic from the downed wire’s location until an O&R crew arrives.

How to Report an Outage

If you experience a power outage, don’t assume that O&R automatically knows about it. You can report it and check to see when your lights will be back on through:

• Report an Electric Service Problem | Orange & Rockland (oru.com) from any computer or web-based mobile device.         

• O&R mobile app from your iPhone, iPad or Android device --- download via Apple Store or Google Play.

• Text messaging by texting “OUT” to 678797 (ORUPWR) or

• Call 1-877-434-4100.

Restoring Service 

Once the weather clears enough to safely assess damage and begin electric service restoration, O&R crews will give priority to clearing downed wires blocking roads and making repairs to critical and emergency facilities (police and fire stations, and hospitals, for example) and to those locations where the repair will provide power to the largest number of customers as quickly as possible. Then, crews will restore smaller outages and individual customers’ outages.

Until we face our own health crisis, most of us don't think about how our local hospitals remain solvent while providing high amounts of uncompensated care to the indigent, providing services to Medicaid and Medicare patients with reimbursement rates that are less than the cost of providing care, and continue to attract talented specialists so we can receive good quality healthcare in our own communities. In addition, we rarely consider how government policy decisions or lack of action can affect our hospital’s ability to provide wide ranging specialty care options.

Westchester Medical Center (WMCHealth) has served this community through good and hard times. It's where families go to bring new children into this world and where they say goodbye to loved ones. It's where the most vulnerable uninsured members of our community can still get critical emergency care and our Medicaid and Medicare population are cared for. Right now, WMCHealth’s ability to provide these services is caught up in a bureaucratic standoff in Washington DC that nobody is thinking about, but everybody should be.

Like many other states, New York State applied for additional Medicaid funding for WMCHealth over a year ago, to sustain current operations. The application was submitted on time, done by the book, and meets the requirements under federal law, including provisions in President Trump's own Big Beautiful Bill. However, the federal agency that must approve it, The Center’s for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS), still has not approved the funding. Every day that passes puts more pressure on WMCHealth to cut programs so they can remain in service to our community.

I'm not a health policy expert. But I know that when a hospital that serves tens of thousands of Medicaid patients and impoverished or disabled residents can't get a straightforward funding decision out of Washington, something is wrong.

Thankfully, Congressman Mike Lawler has spoken up for WMCHealth in the past, but we need him again. Lawler has real relationships with President Trump and with CMS Administrator, Dr. Mehmet Oz. Lawler is in the unique position to call the President and call Dr. Oz to get our Medicaid funding for WMCHealth. Pick up the phone! Make the call! Get this done!

President Trump talks about cutting waste and improving health care for all Americans. Approving this crucial Medicaid funding is consistent with both. It goes directly to patient care, not middleman or fraudulent entities, it's been independently reviewed, and it was submitted following all the rules. There's no good reason to keep stalling.

Rabbi Yisroel Kahan

Until we face our own health crisis, most of us don't think about how our local hospitals remain solvent while providing high amounts of uncompensated care to the indigent, providing services to Medicaid and Medicare patients with reimbursement rates that are less than the cost of providing care, and continue to attract talented specialists so we can receive good quality healthcare in our own communities. In addition, we rarely consider how government policy decisions or lack of action can affect our hospital’s ability to provide wide ranging specialty care options.

Westchester Medical Center (WMCHealth) has served this community through good and hard times. It's where families go to bring new children into this world and where they say goodbye to loved ones. It's where the most vulnerable uninsured members of our community can still get critical emergency care and our Medicaid and Medicare population are cared for. Right now, WMCHealth’s ability to provide these services is caught up in a bureaucratic standoff in Washington DC that nobody is thinking about, but everybody should be.

Like many other states, New York State applied for additional Medicaid funding for WMCHealth over a year ago, to sustain current operations. The application was submitted on time, done by the book, and meets the requirements under federal law, including provisions in President Trump's own Big Beautiful Bill. However, the federal agency that must approve it, The Center’s for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS), still has not approved the funding. Every day that passes puts more pressure on WMCHealth to cut programs so they can remain in service to our community.

I'm not a health policy expert. But I know that when a hospital that serves tens of thousands of Medicaid patients and impoverished or disabled residents can't get a straightforward funding decision out of Washington, something is wrong.

Thankfully, Congressman Mike Lawler has spoken up for WMCHealth in the past, but we need him again. Lawler has real relationships with President Trump and with CMS Administrator, Dr. Mehmet Oz. Lawler is in the unique position to call the President and call Dr. Oz to get our Medicaid funding for WMCHealth. Pick up the phone! Make the call! Get this done!

President Trump talks about cutting waste and improving health care for all Americans. Approving this crucial Medicaid funding is consistent with both. It goes directly to patient care, not middleman or fraudulent entities, it's been independently reviewed, and it was submitted following all the rules. There's no good reason to keep stalling.

Rabbi Yisroel Kahan

July 4th fireworks light up College Road in Monsey tonight.

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A grand celebration marking America’s 250th Birthday took place today in the Village of Montebello. The event was attended by Senator Bill Weber and was hosted by the Gerber family, with coordination by Heshy Jay.

To the Editor,

I would like to publicly express my sincere appreciation to New York State Senate candidate Joe Rand, Assemblyman Aron Wieder, and Village of Montebello Deputy Mayor Stacey Caridi for their assistance following the power outage that affected residents of Montebello on the evening of July 4.

While Orange & Rockland crews were responding to numerous outages across the region during one of the busiest holiday weekends of the year, Joe Rand immediately made himself available and began working to help expedite the utility’s response to our neighborhood. Although Assemblyman Aron Wieder does not represent the Village of Montebello, he also stepped in without hesitation to offer assistance in any way he could. Deputy Mayor Stacey Caridi was equally responsive, helping ensure that residents’ concerns were heard while providing timely updates throughout the situation.

No one expects utility crews to overcome every challenge instantly during a widespread outage, particularly over a busy holiday weekend. However, having public officials and community leaders who are accessible, responsive, and willing to advocate for residents when help is needed makes a meaningful difference.

I am truly grateful to Joe Rand, Assemblyman Aron Wieder, and Deputy Mayor Stacey Caridi for their prompt attention, willingness to help, and continued commitment to serving our community.

Sincerely,

Rifka R.
Montebello

The views expressed in this letter do not necessarily represent those of Monsey Scoop. Have an opinion you’d like to share? Send it to us for review.

As a relentless heatwave gripped the New York region, international news agency Reuters joined Spring Hill EMS for a firsthand look at how extreme temperatures are impacting emergency responders.

The report follows Spring Hill EMS President Akiva Zidell and crews as they respond to multiple heat-related emergencies, including an elderly man who collapsed after spending hours outdoors in sweltering conditions. Zidell explains how consecutive days of excessive heat prevent the body from recovering, significantly increasing the risk of dehydration, heat exhaustion, and life-threatening heat stroke, particularly among outdoor workers, children, and older adults.

The report also highlights the importance of staying hydrated, recognizing the early warning signs of heat-related illness, and seeking medical attention before conditions become critical.

Video courtesy of Reuters, published by The Financial Express via YouTube. The video below is embedded from the original YouTube source.

Spring Valley Police detained an intoxicated individual on West Street after he allegedly pulled a knife on a taxi driver and refused to pay the fare. Officers quickly brought the situation under control, and no injuries were reported.

Hit-and-run crash on Kennedy Drive. Spring Valley Police and Chaverim of Rockland are on the scene investigating.

Dear Editor,

As many Monsey residents endured more than 24 hours without electricity following severe weather, frustration mounted over what many described as repeated delays and changing restoration estimates.

Residents said they were initially informed that power would be restored within a day, only to later receive updated estimates pushing restoration back by another 24 hours or more. For families coping with the summer heat, spoiled food, medical needs, and disrupted daily routines, the extended outage became increasingly difficult.

Many residents said the biggest challenge was the uncertainty, with restoration timelines changing multiple times as crews worked to repair widespread storm damage.

Despite the frustration, residents emphasized that they appreciate the difficult work performed by utility line crews, especially during dangerous conditions and over the holiday weekend. Their concerns are centered on the lengthy delays and the lack of clear, consistent information about when power would return.

As restoration efforts continue, many residents hope this experience leads to improvements during future emergencies, including more accurate restoration estimates and better communication to help families prepare for extended outages.

Sincerely,

Mayer G.

A school bus and a passenger vehicle were involved in an MVA at approximately 4:20 p.m. Sunday at the intersection of East Castle Avenue and South Main Street in Spring Valley.

Hatzoloh EMS, Spring Hill EMS, Spring Valley Police, and Chaverim of Rockland responded to the scene and treated multiple children on the bus, along with occupants of the other vehicle.

All reported injuries were minor. Several patients were transported to local hospitals for evaluation and treatment of minor injuries only, and there were no reports of any serious injuries.

The cause of the crash remains under investigation by the Spring Valley Police Department.

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