A Mount Vernon man is facing multiple felony charges after robbing a taxi driver and stealing his vehicle in Spring Valley before being swiftly apprehended by law enforcement.

According to the Spring Valley Police Department, the incident occurred on June 6 at approximately 6:46 a.m. near Municipal Plaza. The victim, a taxi driver, reported that a passenger seated in the rear of his vehicle pressed what appeared to be a firearm against his lower back while he was driving.

Fearing for his safety, the driver immediately stopped the vehicle and exited. The suspect then climbed into the driver’s seat and fled in the victim’s vehicle.

While officers were taking the report at police headquarters, they learned that a witness to the incident was actively following the stolen vehicle within the Town of Ramapo. Ramapo Police officers quickly located the vehicle and conducted a traffic stop, taking the suspect into custody without incident.

An investigation by Spring Valley Police detectives determined that the suspect had used a solid blunt object that appeared consistent with the tip of a firearm, leading the victim to believe he was being threatened with a gun.

The suspect was identified as 41-year-old Brian-Allen Lamont Crow of Mount Vernon.

Crow was charged with First-Degree Robbery, Second-Degree Robbery, Third-Degree Grand Larceny, and Fourth-Degree Criminal Possession of a Weapon.

He was arraigned before Judge Mellion in Spring Valley Justice Court, where bail was set at $150,000 cash, $200,000 bond, or a $300,000 partially secured bond. Crow was subsequently transported to the Rockland County Jail.

The Spring Valley Police Department thanked the Ramapo Police Department and the Rockland County Sheriff’s Bureau of Criminal Investigation for their assistance in the investigation.

Anyone with information related to the incident is asked to contact the Spring Valley Police Department at 845-356-7400 or email [email protected].

As part of their ongoing mission to the United States on behalf of Keren Olam HaTorah, several leading Gedolei Yisroel are scheduled to arrive in Monsey on Friday for a special Maamad Kavod HaTorah open to the entire kehilla.

The asifa will take place Friday, June 12, at 2:30 p.m. at the Atrium Ballroom on Route 59 in Monsey.

The visit is part of the Gedolim’s historic mission across America on behalf of Keren Olam HaTorah, the worldwide initiative established to support the yeshivos and kollelim of Eretz Yisroel following the severe government funding cuts that have left mosdos struggling to meet basic operating expenses.

As part of their ongoing mission to the United States on behalf of Keren Olam HaTorah, several leading Gedolei Yisroel are scheduled to arrive in Monsey on Friday for a special Maamad Kavod HaTorah open to the entire kehilla.

The asifa will take place Friday, June 12, at 2:30 p.m. at the Atrium Ballroom on Route 59 in Monsey.

The visit is part of the Gedolim’s historic mission across America on behalf of Keren Olam HaTorah, the worldwide initiative established to support the yeshivos and kollelim of Eretz Yisroel following the severe government funding cuts that have left mosdos struggling to meet basic operating expenses.

The Eruv of Monsey released its weekly inspection report ahead of Shabbos Parshas Shelach, with inspectors identifying 21 issues throughout the Eruv system. According to the report, eight issues were classified as not kosher and required immediate attention, four were categorized as high-priority, and the remainder were lower-priority maintenance items.

Officials confirmed that all sections of the Eruv are currently kosher following repairs completed this week.

In the Airmont Eruv, crews completed repairs along Shuart Road, where branches pushing against the wire were cleared. In Chestnut Ridge, maintenance crews repaired a section on Cottage Lane after a new utility pole was installed in the area.

Several repairs were completed in the Monsey Rambam sections. In Sh’lav 2, crews cleared branches along the Eruv string at multiple locations on Route 306, including areas across from Crestview and Ohr Somayach, and removed overgrowth beneath the Eruv string on West Central Avenue. On Viola Road behind the Satmar Yeshiva, two large trees fell onto the fence line. Yeshiva maintenance crews are currently repairing the damage, and the area is scheduled for a reinspection on Friday.

In the Monsey Rambam Sh’lav 3 section, an Eruv pole damaged by ongoing Main Street construction was straightened and repaired. Crews also cleared branches along the Eruv string between Main Street and Saddle River Road, verified a critical string alignment beneath a plate structure, and repaired a snapped string connection on Viola Road.

In Spring Valley, repairs were completed at the intersection of East Eckerson Road and Route 45 after the installation of a new traffic signal displaced part of the Eruv wire. Crews also upgraded a half-inch PVC component on West Eckerson Road, replacing it with a more durable one-inch PVC. In the Spring Valley Rambam section, crews cleared branches and tangled wires from four locations along Route 45.

All other sections, including Suffern, Good Samaritan Hospital Rambam, Pearl River, Montebello, Nanuet, Wesley Hills, New Hempstead, New City, Hillcrest, and Haverstraw, were inspected and found to be fully operational.

Officials also highlighted a major maintenance effort carried out this week. Crews successfully resolved and closed out 46 pending low-priority issues across the Eruv system. Despite that progress, approximately 65 lower-priority maintenance items remain on the list and will continue to be addressed in the coming weeks.

Eruv officials confirmed that all necessary repairs were completed ahead of Shabbos and that the Eruv remains operational for the community.

Orange & Rockland Utilities (O&R) has activated its emergency response workforce as severe thunderstorms, high winds, lightning, and dangerous heat are expected to impact the region beginning Thursday afternoon.

The utility company announced that overhead line crews, tree removal specialists, customer service operators, and other emergency personnel are on standby to respond to outages and storm-related damage. O&R has also secured 50 mutual aid workers to assist with restoration efforts if needed.

In addition to the threat of severe weather, temperatures and humidity are expected to remain elevated through Friday, increasing demand on the electric grid as residents rely heavily on air conditioning. O&R warned that extreme heat can strain electrical equipment and, in some cases, lead to scattered power outages.

The company is urging residents to stay away from downed power lines, assume all wires are energized, and immediately report any outages or hazardous conditions. Customers can report outages through O&R’s website, mobile app, by texting “OUT” to 678797, or by calling 1-877-434-4100.

O&R also reminded customers that utility service disconnections are suspended when the local heat index is forecast to reach 90 degrees or higher, providing additional protections during periods of extreme heat.

Once conditions are safe, restoration efforts will prioritize downed wires blocking roadways, critical facilities such as hospitals and emergency services, and repairs that restore power to the largest number of customers first.

Rockland County is now accepting nominations for the 29th Annual County Executive’s Outstanding Environmental Volunteer Award, County Executive Ed Day and the Rockland County Division of Environmental Resources announced this week.

The annual award recognizes Rockland residents who have made significant contributions to protecting and enhancing the county’s natural environment through efforts such as caring for parks, protecting watersheds, promoting waste reduction, and improving community beautification projects.

To be eligible, nominees must be at least 18 years old and reside in Rockland County. Individuals who were nominated in previous years but were not selected are eligible to be nominated again.

The recipient of this year’s award will be honored by County Executive Day during a tree dedication ceremony at Kennedy Dells Park on October 8, 2026.

Nominations must be submitted by 5 p.m. on Friday, August 28. Residents seeking additional information can contact the Division of Environmental Resources at 845-364-2670 or by email at [email protected].

Congressmen Mike Lawler and Dan Goldman are leading a bipartisan coalition of lawmakers in introducing the House version of the Jewish American Security Act, a comprehensive legislative package designed to combat antisemitism and strengthen protections for Jewish communities across the United States.

The legislation, which mirrors a bipartisan bill introduced in the Senate last month, would significantly expand funding for the Nonprofit Security Grant Program, enhance federal oversight of antisemitism on college campuses, strengthen enforcement of civil rights protections for Jewish students, and require greater transparency from social media companies regarding antisemitic content on their platforms.

The bill is co-sponsored by 28 additional lawmakers from both parties and has received support from a broad coalition of Jewish organizations representing communities across the religious and political spectrum.

Supporters of the legislation say the measure represents one of the most comprehensive federal efforts to address antisemitism in recent years, bringing together security funding, campus protections, online accountability measures, and federal threat assessments in a single package.

Major Jewish advocacy groups, including the Anti-Defamation League, Jewish Federations of North America, the American Jewish Committee, the Orthodox Union Advocacy Center, the Jewish Council for Public Affairs, and the Conference of Presidents of Major American Jewish Organizations, have voiced support for the proposal.

The legislation comes amid ongoing concerns over rising antisemitic incidents nationwide following the October 7 attacks in Israel and seeks to provide additional resources and protections for Jewish institutions, students, and communities throughout the country.

The House measure follows the introduction of a companion bill in the Senate and is expected to be considered by Congress in the coming months.

A comprehensive inspection of the Monsey Eruv took place this past Friday as HaRav Shimon Katz, a prominent Satmar Dayan in Monsey (Satmar 1 Monsey Blvd), joined HaRav Shlomo Zalmen Grossman, members of a kollel dedicated to studying Hilchos Eruvin, and Monsey Eruv officials for an extensive tour of the Eruv.

The group spent more than two-and-a-half hours walking and inspecting various sections of the Eruv, carefully reviewing its construction and maintenance. Throughout the tour, the rabbonim examined the Eruv’s infrastructure and discussed numerous halachic aspects related to its operation.

HaRav Katz expressed great satisfaction with the Eruv and was highly impressed by the tremendous effort and meticulous work invested by the Monsey Eruv officials to maintain its high standards.

Following the inspection, the delegation met with the Satmar Rav of Monsey, HaRav Chaim Shea Halberstam, and presented a detailed review of the Eruv and its condition. The Rav was highly impressed by the extensive work, dedication, and attention to detail invested by the Monsey Eruv officials in maintaining the Eruv to the highest standards.

A bochur was seriously injured Wednesday afternoon after being violently assaulted by an Uber delivery driver on Stern Street near Clinton Lane.

Sources tell Monsey Scoop the victim may have suffered a skull fracture as a result of the assault. New Square Hatzoloh EMS responded to the scene and transported the injured bochur to a local hospital for treatment.

Ramapo Police, assisted by New Square Ershte Hilf volunteers, responded to the incident and took the suspect into custody. The investigation is ongoing.

Assemblyman Aron Wieder visited the intersection of Route 9W and Oak Tree Road today with local residents to personally examine the site at the center of the proposed roundabout project.

The visit follows the Orangetown Town Board’s unanimous adoption of a resolution last night officially opposing the NYSDOT roundabout plan and requesting that the state place the project on hold.

Last week, during NYSDOT’s public information session at Orangetown Town Hall, members of Assemblyman Wieder’s office staff requested accident data for the intersection from town officials. This morning, he received the report from the Orangetown Police Department, which shows 16 crashes at this intersection since 2022.

Following today’s visit to the intersection, Wieder scheduled a meeting with NYSDOT Region 8 leadership and project staff to discuss the proposed project and advocate for a full re-evaluation before it advances to the bidding stage. He plans to raise concerns voiced by local residents and the Orangetown Town Board, while pushing for safety improvements that better reflect the actual conditions at the site.

“Improving safety and saving lives is a priority,” said Assemblyman Wieder. “We must also remain responsive to the residents who have lived in this community for generations and ensure their input shapes the outcome.”

Rockland County officials are urging residents to remain vigilant and prioritize pedestrian safety as crashes involving pedestrians continue to be a significant public safety concern across New York State and locally.

According to the Traffic Safety Statistical Repository, 208 pedestrians were killed or injured in crashes in Rockland County during 2024. Statewide, more than 300 pedestrians are killed each year and thousands more suffer injuries on roadways. Pedestrians account for nearly one-quarter of all traffic fatalities in New York.

County officials noted that many pedestrian crashes occur at intersections or while crossing roadways and often involve factors such as distracted driving, speeding, failure to yield the right-of-way, alcohol use, and inadequate crossing infrastructure.

To help reduce crashes and save lives, Rockland County is encouraging pedestrians to cross at marked crosswalks or intersections whenever possible, obey pedestrian signals, make eye contact with drivers before crossing, avoid distractions such as texting, and increase visibility at night by wearing reflective clothing or carrying a flashlight. Residents are also reminded to walk facing oncoming traffic when sidewalks are unavailable.

Officials emphasized that improving pedestrian safety requires a coordinated effort involving education, enforcement, and infrastructure improvements. The county continues to support public awareness campaigns and targeted enforcement initiatives aimed at reducing pedestrian-related crashes.

“Eyes on the Road, Rockland. Stay alert. Follow the rules. Look out for one another,” the county said in its safety message.

The initiative is funded by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration through a grant from the New York State Governor’s Traffic Safety Committee. For more information on pedestrian safety, visit: https://rcklnd.us/Safe-Streets.

Congressman Mike Lawler is calling on Governor Kathy Hochul to explain why New York awarded approximately $7 million in taxpayer-funded incentives to Rippling, a technology company facing allegations of anti-worker practices and retaliation against employees who used paid family leave.

In a letter sent Wednesday, Lawler questioned the state’s decision to provide economic development subsidies to the company despite reports that former employees were penalized for exercising workplace rights. He argued that New York taxpayers should not be funding companies accused of mistreating workers, particularly in a state known for its strong support of organized labor.

“Recent reporting uncovered concerns with the company, including allegations that employees were penalized for using paid family leave,” Lawler wrote. “Rippling has no place in one of the most union-friendly states in the U.S.”

The congressman also raised concerns about Rippling founder and CEO Parker Conrad, citing past regulatory actions involving his former company, Zenefits. Lawler noted that the New York State Department of Financial Services fined Zenefits $1.2 million for violations of insurance laws and that Conrad previously agreed to a settlement with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission.

Lawler’s letter asks Hochul’s administration to disclose what incentives were provided to Rippling, what due diligence was conducted before approving the subsidies, whether labor and employment practices were considered during the review process, and what safeguards exist to protect taxpayers. He also questioned whether a company reportedly valued at approximately $16 billion should be receiving public subsidies at all.

The congressman requested a response and related records, including subsidy agreements and due diligence materials, by July 4.

Lawler highlighted his record supporting organized labor, including his recent vote for the Faster Labor Contracts Act and his support for legislation aimed at strengthening collective bargaining rights and workplace protections. He said the allegations surrounding Rippling raise serious questions about how New York evaluates companies seeking taxpayer-funded incentives.

As prom nights, graduation ceremonies, and summer celebrations get underway across Rockland County, District Attorney Tom Walsh is urging students and families to prioritize safety and avoid the dangers of underage drinking.

In an op-ed released Wednesday, Walsh noted that while this time of year marks an exciting milestone for high school and college students, poor decisions involving alcohol can quickly turn celebrations into tragedies.

“Prom and graduation celebrations should be remembered for the fun, the friendships, and the milestones they represent,” Walsh wrote. “By working collectively to make responsible choices, we can ensure that this prom and graduation season is remembered for all the right reasons.”

Walsh highlighted the period between Memorial Day and Labor Day, often referred to as the “100 Deadliest Days,” when teen-related traffic fatalities typically increase due to more travel, social gatherings, and celebratory events.

According to statistics cited by the District Attorney, approximately 37 people die every day in the United States in alcohol-impaired driving crashes, with more than 13,000 lives lost annually. For teenagers, motor vehicle crashes remain one of the leading causes of death, with alcohol playing a significant role in many fatal incidents.

The District Attorney stressed that underage drinking is not a harmless rite of passage, warning that it can lead to devastating consequences including car crashes, alcohol poisoning, drownings, suicides, homicides, and other preventable tragedies.

Walsh also called on parents, friends, and community members to play an active role in keeping students safe by discussing the dangers of alcohol, planning safe transportation, and speaking up when someone is about to make a dangerous decision.

“My Office has seen firsthand how a single poor decision of impaired driving can alter the course of multiple lives,” Walsh wrote. “Passengers, pedestrians, families, friends, and entire communities can suffer the devastating effects of a crash for years to come.”

He concluded with a message to students and families as graduation season continues across Rockland County: “Celebrate responsibly. Don’t drink and drive. Save your friends, save your family, save yourself.”

A large emergency response was launched Wednesday afternoon after a group of 71 girls from a Monsey school became lost while exploring underground tunnels in Nyack.

Sources tell Monsey Scoop that the group began at Memorial Park and followed a creek that eventually led them into an underground section. The children reportedly continued exploring for nearly a half-mile, reaching an area near downtown Nyack before becoming confused and unable to find their way back.

After authorities were alerted, emergency responders from Chaverim of Rockland, Orangetown Police, the Nyack Fire Department, Hatzolah EMS of Rockland County, and additional agencies from across Ramapo and neighboring communities responded to assist.

Rescuers worked to ensure all 71 students and their chaperones were safely accounted for. Several individuals were evaluated at the scene for dehydration and exhaustion after spending an extended period walking through the tunnels, but no serious injuries were reported.

Nyack Mayor and Democratic candidate for New York State Senate District 38, Joe Rand, helped coordinate efforts at the scene and later told Monsey Scoop:

“We’re grateful for the work of the Orangetown Police Department, who responded very quickly once they learned there were young girls inside the culvert. The girls entered from Memorial Park and were exploring, which kids do. They wanted to see what they could find and made it almost a half-mile from Memorial Park to the middle of town before becoming alarmed.

Someone discovered they were down there and called 911. Police responded, along with numerous emergency agencies from Ramapo, New Square, and surrounding communities. We’re very grateful they came down to help, and especially grateful to the Orangetown Police Department.

Nobody was seriously hurt, nobody was lost, everyone has been accounted for, and everything is fine now. We’re thankful for the hard work of all the responders and very glad these children are okay.”

All members of the group were ultimately located and safely escorted out, bringing the incident to a successful conclusion. Officials credited the coordinated efforts of first responders and local leaders for helping ensure a safe outcome for everyone involved.

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The Haverstraw Police Department has announced the hiring of Ryan Lutz as its newest police officer.

Officer Lutz was officially sworn into office during a ceremony held Tuesday evening, conducted by Haverstraw Town Supervisor Howard Phillips and members of the Town Board.

The department welcomed Officer Lutz as he begins his law enforcement career and prepares to serve the residents of the Town of Haverstraw. Police officials encouraged the community to join them in congratulating Officer Lutz on this milestone and wishing him success in his new role.

State Senator Bill Weber is calling on the New York State Department of Transportation (NYSDOT) to pause plans for a proposed roundabout at the intersection of Route 9W and Oak Tree Road in Palisades, citing growing community opposition and concerns raised by local residents and officials.

In a letter sent Wednesday to NYSDOT Commissioner Marie Therese Dominguez, Weber urged the agency to halt further advancement of the project and conduct additional review before moving forward. The request comes one day after the Orangetown Town Board unanimously passed a resolution opposing the roundabout proposal.

“We are asking for a pause,” Weber said. “We want to make sure all options are fully considered before moving forward with a project that many residents believe is not the right fit for their intersection.”

According to Weber, discussions about improving safety at the intersection began several years ago and initially focused on measures such as installing a left-turn signal. As plans for the roundabout moved closer to construction, residents said they became increasingly concerned after learning more details about the project’s scope, including temporary property acquisitions required during construction.

Among the concerns raised by residents are the large number of cyclists who regularly travel along the Route 9W corridor, particularly on weekends when cycling groups can number in the hundreds. Weber noted that Route 9W remains a popular route for cyclists traveling from New York City to destinations throughout the Hudson Valley and called for additional analysis of how a roundabout could impact cyclist safety.

Residents have also pointed to increasing truck traffic along Route 9W and future residential development that could further change traffic patterns in the area. Weber said those factors should be carefully studied before any construction begins.

Last week, NYSDOT hosted a public information session at Orangetown Town Hall. Many residents who attended expected a formal town hall meeting but described the event as an open house where agency representatives answered individual questions and displayed project plans without a group discussion or public question-and-answer session.

Weber’s Chief of Staff, John Mulgrew, attended the event after he and the senator met with residents and toured the intersection. According to Weber, opposition to the project has continued to grow as more residents become familiar with the proposal.

In his letter, Weber called on NYSDOT to suspend further engineering work, conduct additional traffic studies, and hold a formal public town hall after those studies are completed so residents can review the findings and provide input before any final decisions are made.

The senator’s position mirrors that of the Orangetown Town Board, which is advocating for consideration of alternative safety improvements, including enhanced traffic signals and other traffic-calming measures, before moving forward with what officials describe as a significant and potentially permanent change to the character and traffic flow of the Palisades hamlet.

“We don’t want this rushed through simply because funding is available,” Weber said. “If there is a problem that needs to be addressed, let’s make sure we are solving the right problem with the right solution.”

For now, Weber says he will continue working with residents, local officials, and transportation officials to identify a solution that improves safety while addressing community concerns.

“Our request is simple,” Weber said. “Pause the project, conduct additional review and analysis, and allow residents to be fully heard before moving forward.”

A serious two-car crash involving a rollover was reported Wednesday at approximately 12:05 p.m. on Route 303 near 116 Route 303 in Orangetown.

Sources tell Monsey Scoop that one driver became trapped inside a vehicle following the collision and was extricated by members of the Tappan Fire Department.

South Orangetown EMS, Orangetown Police, Tappan Fire Department, and Rockland Paramedics responded to the scene. Injuries were reported.

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Spring Valley Police and the Rockland County Sheriff’s Office are investigating after a person was found deceased outside the U.S. Post Office on North Madison Avenue Wednesday morning.

Sources tell Monsey Scoop that at approximately 7:18 a.m., Spring Valley Police received a report of an individual slumped over in front of the building. Responding officers arrived and determined the person had no pulse, prompting a request for emergency medical personnel.

EMS crews responded to the scene and subsequently pronounced the individual deceased.

As detectives continue their investigation, North Madison Avenue between West Church Street and Commerce Street has been closed to traffic.

The identity of the deceased has not yet been released, and the circumstances surrounding the death remain under investigation.

This is a developing story. Additional information will be provided as it becomes available.

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The Ramapo Police Department’s Community Policing Unit is encouraging local camps and schools to take advantage of its free safety education program, which brings police officers directly to students for interactive and age-appropriate presentations.

The lessons cover a variety of important topics, including school bus safety, bicycle safety, pedestrian safety, seat belt and car seat rules, stranger danger, 911 awareness, and taxi safety.

Department officials say the program is designed to educate children while strengthening relationships between law enforcement and the community. Schools and camps interested in scheduling a presentation can contact the Community Policing Unit by emailing [email protected] and providing their school or camp name, address, number of students, and age group information.

The Town of Haverstraw Police Department is once again asking for the public’s help in locating Eugene Palmer, who remains wanted in connection with the 2012 murder of Tammy Palmer in Stony Point.

According to investigators, Eugene Palmer is accused of ambushing Tammy Palmer, the mother of his grandchildren, as she walked up the driveway of her home and fatally shooting her before fleeing the area.

More than 13 years later, the case remains active. Haverstraw Police say they continue to work closely with the FBI and U.S. Marshals Service in their ongoing efforts to locate Palmer and bring him to justice.

“The Town of Haverstraw Police, along with their FBI and U.S. Marshal partners, have not forgotten this crime and have been continuously working on this case,” the department said in a statement.

Authorities are urging anyone with information regarding Eugene Palmer’s whereabouts, or anyone who may have assisted him in avoiding capture, to contact the Haverstraw Police Department Detective Bureau at 845-942-3730 or their local FBI office.

Congressman Mike Lawler is leading a bipartisan effort to crack down on illegal robocalls, urging the Federal Communications Commission to strengthen regulations aimed at preventing phone scams that cost Americans billions of dollars each year.

Lawler, joined by 18 members of Congress, sent a letter to the FCC supporting its proposed rulemaking, Combatting Illegal Robocalls Through FCC Numbering Policies, which seeks to modernize communications infrastructure and close loopholes that scammers use to carry out fraud schemes.

According to lawmakers, Americans reported approximately $15.9 billion in fraud losses in 2025, the highest amount ever recorded. Victims contacted by phone suffered some of the largest financial losses, highlighting the need for stronger protections against robocall-driven scams.

In the letter, lawmakers praised the FCC’s efforts and called for greater coordination with the U.S. Department of the Treasury and financial regulators, noting that many robocall scams ultimately lead to fraudulent financial transactions. They argued that combining telecommunications oversight with financial fraud detection would improve the government’s ability to identify and stop criminal networks before consumers are harmed.

The lawmakers also warned that advances in artificial intelligence and voice-cloning technology have made scams increasingly sophisticated. They urged the FCC to adopt strict and enforceable rules targeting tactics such as “number cycling,” in which fraudsters rapidly switch phone numbers to evade detection.

“Payment fraud and impersonation scams have become a systemic threat to consumers, small businesses, national security, and the broader economy,” the letter states, emphasizing the need for stronger accountability and oversight to disrupt criminal operations at their source.

The bipartisan letter was signed by 19 members of Congress, including Lawler and representatives from both New York and across the country.

More than 400 morahs and mechanchos from across Monsey gathered Sunday evening at the New York Country Club in Spring Valley for a special appreciation event hosted by Torah Umesorah’s newly established Monsey Teacher Center.

The evening, titled “A Night for Our Mechanchos,” brought together classroom teachers from schools throughout the community for an elegant program dedicated to recognizing their tireless efforts and commitment to chinuch. Attendance exceeded expectations, with the venue filled to capacity as educators from across Monsey came together for an evening of inspiration, appreciation, and connection.

Guests were welcomed to a beautifully arranged setting overlooking the golf course, with every detail carefully planned to express hakaras hatov to the women who dedicate themselves daily to educating the next generation.

The program opened with remarks from Mrs. Rochel Zimmerman, Director of Chinuch HaBanos, and Mrs. Estee Heitner, Monsey Regional Director and coordinator of the event. Rabbi Yisroel Mordechai Falk delivered divrei pesicha, followed by a highly anticipated live question-and-answer session with Rabbi Chaim Yehoshua Hoberman of Torah Umesorah’s Vaad Roshei Yeshiva, who addressed questions submitted by teachers.

A highlight of the evening was the presentation of the K’Mayim Program by Rabbi Meir Simcha Stein, featuring an engaging and practical demonstration led by Rebbetzin Gitty Eisenberg of Bais Yaakov of Monsey.

Participants described the evening as uplifting and meaningful, expressing appreciation for the recognition and support shown to the educators who play such a vital role in the community’s chinuch system.

The Monsey Teacher Center is one of seven regional centers operated by Torah Umesorah nationwide and will provide local teachers with professional development opportunities, certification programs, training, and educational resources. Organizers said the center’s mission is to strengthen and support Monsey’s mechanchos while ensuring they have the tools needed to continue their vital work in the classroom.

The event was made possible through the support of dedicated donors committed to advancing Torah education and supporting the community’s educators.

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I never imagined that a simple walk on a sidewalk would land me in the emergency room, not once, but twice.

About two months ago, I was walking along Forshay Road when two youngsters on e-scooters came flying up behind me. There was no horn, no warning, and no attempt to slow down. One of them clipped my right arm as they passed, leaving me in pain for days.

I figured it was an unfortunate incident and moved on.

Then, on Sunday night, it happened again.

This time, an adult riding an e-scooter on the very same sidewalk slammed into me, sending me to the ground. The impact was serious enough that I ended up in the ER, underwent a CAT scan, and am now facing thousands of dollars in medical bills.

The rider wasn’t wearing a helmet, and like many e-scooter riders, there appears to be no insurance coverage to help cover the damage. Thankfully, witnesses rushed over to help, and the rider also came back after the collision, but the fact remains: a pedestrian walking on a sidewalk ended up in the hospital.

As I lay on the ground waiting for help, one thought kept running through my mind: what if it had been an elderly person? What if it had been a child?

I contacted Ramapo Police Chief Daniel Hyman’s office, not because I was looking to get anyone arrested, but because I wanted to raise awareness before someone else gets hurt.

The EMTs who treated me told me these types of incidents are becoming increasingly common. Whether it’s children racing down sidewalks or adults traveling at high speeds, pedestrians are being placed at risk every day.

Let’s be clear: this isn’t an anti-scooter letter. E-scooters are here, and many people use them responsibly. But somewhere along the way, basic courtesy and common sense seem to have disappeared.

Parents, please speak to your children. Riders, please slow down. Use a horn. Give pedestrians space. Remember that sidewalks are meant for people walking, not for weaving through crowds at full speed.

Today, I’m recovering.

Tomorrow, it could be someone else.

And the next person may not be as fortunate.

— A Forshay Road Resident

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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.

Hatzoloh EMS of Rockland has received the first major dedication toward its new Monsey headquarters project, marking an emotional milestone in the development of the future facility.

A generous $200,000 donation has been pledged for Bay 1 of the new ambulance garage in memory of Moshe Spilman A”H, a beloved longtime Hatzoloh coordinator and member whose years of dedication and service left a lasting impact on the organization and the broader community.

The dedication ensures that the first ambulance bay in the new headquarters will bear the memory of a man who devoted countless hours to helping others. Future emergency responses departing from Bay 1 will serve as a lasting tribute to Moshe A”H and his commitment to Hatzoloh’s lifesaving mission.

Community members noted the significance of the project’s very first dedication being connected to someone whose life was defined by chesed, responsibility, and unwavering service.

As plans for the new headquarters move forward, the donation stands as both an emotional beginning for the project and a fitting tribute to one of Hatzoloh’s most respected coordinators.

Residents are invited to attend the final community workshop for the Safety & Sustainability Study of Routes 303 and 304, two of Rockland County’s busiest roadways. The workshop will be held on Wednesday, June 17, at Clarkstown Town Hall, located at 10 Maple Avenue in New City, with both in-person and virtual attendance options available.

An open house will take place from 6:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m., followed by a presentation and Q&A session beginning at 7:30 p.m. Participants will hear updates on the analysis of proposed improvement alternatives and other key findings from the study. Community members are encouraged to attend and provide feedback as the project moves toward its final stages.

Residents affected by the ongoing Route 59 bridge replacement project can now take advantage of a free shuttle service designed to help pedestrians navigate around the construction zone.

The complimentary service operates daily from 9:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. and is available for those needing transportation between both sides of the Route 59 closure near South Pascack Road. Pickup is available near Dutch Lane and surrounding areas, allowing pedestrians to access businesses, shopping centers, and other destinations that have become more difficult to reach due to the bridge work.

Officials say the shuttle was arranged to assist residents while the bridge replacement project remains underway. The closure is expected to remain in effect through the summer as crews work to replace the aging structure.

Pedestrians needing transportation around the closure can call 914-912-0670 to request a ride. The service is being provided at no cost throughout the duration of the project.

The Rockland County Department of Health is proud to announce it is seeking interested residents for the new Rockland County Medical Reserve Corps (RCMRC). The Medical Reserve Corps (MRC) brings community-minded residents together to help prepare for emergencies and support public health in Rockland County. The RCMRC volunteers may assist with a variety of functions, including shelter operations, emergency logistics, community outreach, and other critical roles during disasters and public health emergencies.

“Rockland County has a long tradition of neighbors helping neighbors. The Medical Reserve Corps gives residents another meaningful way to serve their community, strengthen emergency preparedness, and help protect public health,” said County Executive Ed Day. “I encourage anyone interested in making a difference to consider volunteering.”

The RCMRC is looking for both medical and non-medical volunteers to help their community during emergencies, adverse public health events, community clinics, health screenings, and more.

“The Medical Reserve Corps will help Rockland County better respond to emergencies and to further protect the health of our residents,” said Dr. Mary Leahy, Rockland County Commissioner of Health. “We are building a team of trained volunteers who are ready to help when needed most.”

Why Join the RCMRC?

• Learn valuable skills to help fellow Rocklanders in emergencies and disasters.
• Gain hands-on experience in your community.
• Be part of a national volunteer network.

Who Can Join the RCMRC?

• Medical and health professionals (doctors, nurses, EMTs, pharmacists, etc.)
• Public health workers, retirees, students (18+)
• Anyone who wants to help – no medical experience is needed!

“We need volunteers to make sure we are ready for future challenges,” said Eric Medina and Catherine Baade from the Rockland County Department of Health’s Emergency Preparedness Team.  “The Medical Reserve Corps will help us respond to today’s emergencies and prepare for tomorrow.”

Get Involved Today! Visit the RCMRC webpage to learn more and complete the interest survey.  A member of the RCDOH’s Emergency Preparedness Team will contact you. Thank you for your interest!

The Town of Ramapo has released its upcoming road milling schedule as part of its annual road improvement program, with paving operations scheduled to follow shortly thereafter.

According to the schedule, milling is planned for:

• Sonata Street – June 8
• Doolin Road – June 8
• Wagon Wheel Drive – June 8
• Maple Terrace – June 9
• Fairview Avenue – June 9
• Caville Drive – June 9
• Cape Court – June 9
• DeRonde Road – June 9-10
• Thomas Court – June 10
• Grove Street – June 10
• Remsen Avenue – June 11
• Bates Road – June 11
• Hilda Lane – June 11 & June 15
• Sutton Street – June 15
• Meadowbrook Lane – June 15
• Camp Hill Road – June 15-16
• Brewer Road – June 16

Josef (Yossi) Margaretten told Monsey Scoop that during the milling process, roads are expected to remain open with alternating traffic, and no streets will be fully closed. However, during paving operations, certain roads will require temporary closures to allow crews to safely complete the work.

Margaretten noted that busier roads may be paved on weekends to reduce traffic impacts. As an example, paving on Grove Street is expected to take place on a Saturday.

The road improvement project is being carried out under the leadership of Ramapo Town Supervisor Michael Specht and Highway Superintendent Fred Brinn as part of the Town’s ongoing investment in local infrastructure and roadway improvements. Motorists should expect delays in work zones and are urged to use caution when traveling through affected areas.

The New York State Department of Transportation has announced that South Pascack Road will be closed between Perlman Drive and Pipetown Hill Road on Tuesday, June 9, from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. as crews continue work on the Route 59 Bridge Replacement Project.

The temporary closure is needed to safely carry out demolition of the existing Route 59 bridge. Motorists should be aware that Route 59 remains closed between New Clarkstown Road and South Central Avenue through the end of the summer. Detours will be in place, and delays are expected.

The Clarkstown Police Department has announced the promotion of Lieutenant Kevin Quinn to the rank of Captain, recognizing his 27 years of dedicated service to the department and the community.

Captain Quinn most recently served as Administrative Lieutenant and has held a variety of key leadership roles throughout his career. He played an instrumental role in the department’s Field Training Officer Program, served as Detective Sergeant in the Juvenile Aid Bureau, helped develop the department’s drone program, and successfully graduated from Session 281 of the FBI National Academy.

Following his promotion, Captain Quinn has been assigned as Operations Captain, where he will oversee critical departmental operations while continuing to serve the residents of Clarkstown with professionalism, integrity, and dedication.

The Clarkstown Police Department congratulated Captain Quinn on his well-deserved promotion and wished him continued success in his new leadership role.

A dumpster truck overturned onto its side at a construction site near West Maple Avenue and Boxwood Lane in Monsey at approximately 4:15 p.m. Monday, prompting a response from Hatzoloh EMS, Ramapo Police, and the Monsey Fire Department.

Emergency personnel arrived quickly and secured the area while assessing the scene. Thankfully, no injuries were reported.

West Maple Avenue was closed in the area for several hours as crews worked to safely upright and remove the truck. The roadway reopened at approximately 6:45 p.m. after the truck was successfully recovered and the scene was cleared.

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Chaverim of Rockland’s annual Safety Day and Carnival drew a record-breaking crowd on Sunday, with more than 15,000 children and thousands of parents filling the event grounds for what has become one of the largest family and safety events in Rockland County.

Children and families enjoyed a full day of attractions, entertainment, interactive exhibits, emergency vehicle displays, and hands-on safety demonstrations. The event also provided an opportunity for the community to meet the first responders and volunteers who serve residents around the clock throughout the year.

Participating agencies included Chaverim of Rockland, Hatzolah EMS of Rockland County, Ramapo Police Department, Spring Valley Police Department, the Rockland County Sheriff’s Office, including its Mounted Unit, and the New York State Police. Emergency personnel spent the day educating children on safety while showcasing the equipment and resources used to protect the community.

The event was attended by numerous elected officials, including Rockland County Sheriff Louis Falco, Rockland County District Attorney Tom Walsh, Ramapo Supervisor Michael Specht, Ramapo Police Chief Daniel Hyman, Senator Bill Weber, Assemblyman Aron Wieder, Rockland County Legislator Moshe Hopstein, and Democratic State Senate candidate for the 38th District Joe Rand.

While thousands were enjoying the event, Chaverim volunteers were also carrying out their lifesaving mission. Chaverim of Rockland’s specialized Search & Rescue Team responded to Norvin Green State Forest in New Jersey after a 16-year-old bochur suffered an ankle injury while hiking deep in the rugged terrain. Volunteers utilized specialized rescue equipment to safely reach and extract the injured bochur before transferring him for medical care.

From search and rescue missions and missing-person searches to assisting stranded motorists and responding to tens of thousands of calls annually, Chaverim of Rockland continues to play a critical role throughout the region. Sunday’s record-breaking turnout served as a powerful display of appreciation from a community that relies on its volunteers 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

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While thousands of people were attending the Chaverim of Rockland Carnival and Bike Registration at Viola Park on Sunday, nearly 30 dedicated Chaverim volunteers dropped what they were doing and rushed to an emergency deep inside New Jersey’s Norvin Green State Forest.

A local Monsey yeshiva was on a hiking trip in the popular state forest when a 16-year-old bochur suffered a significant ankle injury nearly two miles into the rugged terrain, leaving him unable to continue. A staff member remained with the injured teen while help was requested.

Chaverim of Rockland immediately activated its specialized Search & Rescue Team and dispatched volunteers equipped with a specialized rescue stretcher and wilderness extraction gear. Chaverim volunteers hiked deep into the forest to reach the patient and conducted an on-scene assessment.

The team then carefully secured the injured bochur into the rescue stretcher and carried him through the challenging terrain, navigating rocky trails and wooded areas during the lengthy extraction. After being safely brought out of the forest, the patient was transferred for further medical evaluation and treatment.

The successful rescue highlighted the dedication and professionalism of Chaverim of Rockland’s Search & Rescue Team, whose volunteers left a major community event to answer the call and ensure the bochur was safely brought to medical care.

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A bochur riding an electric bike was struck by a vehicle Sunday night at approximately 10:00 p.m. at the intersection of Old Nyack Turnpike and South Madison Avenue in Monsey.

Hatzoloh EMS and Ramapo Police responded to the scene and treated the victim. Despite the force of the collision, the bochur miraculously escaped serious injury.

Sources tell Monsey Scoop that the rider was wearing a helmet, which likely prevented far more severe injuries. The impact was significant enough to leave visible damage to the vehicle involved, underscoring the importance of proper safety gear.

No serious injuries were reported.

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Assemblyman Aron Wieder announced that up to $70 million in Securing Communities Against Hate Crimes (SCAHC) grant funding is now available for nonprofit and community-based organizations across New York.

The grants aim to help organizations strengthen security amid rising threats linked to the ongoing Middle East conflict. The program, supported by Governor Kathy Hochul, offers awards of up to $250,000 per organization for physical security and cybersecurity projects. Applications must be submitted by noon on Wednesday, July 8, 2026.

Eligible uses include security cameras, lighting, locks, alarms, shatter-resistant glass, access controls, cybersecurity upgrades, and staff training.

“With the conflict we are seeing globally, it is more important than ever to ensure that New York remains a safe haven for all,” Governor Hochul said. “This funding reflects our commitment to stand by communities facing threats because of who they are, what they believe, or how they live.”

For more information or assistance with the application process, organizations can contact Assemblyman Wieder’s office at 845-624-4601 or Ethan Erlich, Regional Security Director for the Community Security Initiative (CSI): https://csiny.org/securitygrants/

Congressman Mike Lawler welcomed EPA Administrator Lee Zeldin to Rockland County on Sunday morning for a visit to a Rockland Green composting facility in Hillburn, highlighting the Environmental Protection Agency’s “Feed It Onward” initiative aimed at reducing food waste, supporting food recovery programs, and keeping organic waste out of landfills.

During the visit, Lawler and Zeldin toured the facility’s food waste processing operations and met with Rockland Green leadership to learn more about the county’s composting and sustainability efforts. The initiative promotes innovative approaches to reducing the amount of food waste sent to landfills while encouraging communities to expand food recovery programs.

Following the tour, the officials held a press conference and media availability, discussing the importance of environmental stewardship and the role local governments can play in advancing waste reduction efforts.

The event was attended by supervisors from several Rockland County towns, NYS Senator Bill Weber, county officials, and other local leaders, who joined the discussion on sustainability, recycling, and environmental initiatives across the county. Rockland Green officials also highlighted the facility’s ongoing efforts to process food waste and divert organic material from the waste stream.

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On Saturday, town officials, veterans, family members, friends, and residents gathered for a street dedication ceremony honoring the memory of PFC Lawrence O. Rose, a U.S. Army soldier with the 101st Airborne Division who was killed in action during the Vietnam War 58 years ago.

Rose, who grew up on Lake Lucille and attended Clarkstown schools, made the ultimate sacrifice while serving his country. He was awarded the Purple Heart and several other military honors for his service and sacrifice. Several members of the Rose family, including his brother Glenn, still reside in the Lake Lucille community.

The ceremony was led by Clarkstown Supervisor George Hoehmann and Town Council members Frank Valentino and Mark Woods Axelrod, who were joined by Vietnam veterans, representatives of the VFW and American Legion, neighbors, and friends for the unveiling of the street dedication sign.

The town also recognized the contributions of the Clarkstown Police Department Honor Guard, the Highway Department, DEFM staff, Rockland County Veterans Service Agency representative Susan Branam, singer Autumn Nardini, and family friend Doug Davidson for helping make the ceremony a meaningful tribute to the fallen soldier.

Target is voluntarily recalling two of its Up & Up store-brand baby wipes products sold nationwide after federal testing found bacteria that can cause serious infections.

The recall covers Up & Up Fragrance Free Baby Wipes and Up & Up Fresh Cucumber Scented Baby Wipes. FDA testing identified the presence of Burkholderia cepacia complex and Burkholderia gladioli in product samples after customers reported discoloration on the wipes.

According to the FDA notice, use of products contaminated with the bacteria may result in serious and life-threatening infections. The agency said the wipes are predominantly used on newborns, infants, and young children, who are particularly vulnerable to opportunistic infection due to their immature immune systems.

In healthy people, the FDA said, use of the product on skin with minor lesions is more likely to result in a local infection. In immunocompromised individuals, newborns, infants and young children, the infection is more likely to spread into the bloodstream, potentially leading to life-threatening sepsis or pneumonia.

The CDC says Burkholderia cepacia complex is a group of bacteria that can cause infections and can be resistant to antibiotics, making them difficult to treat. The bacteria thrive in damp environments such as water sources and moist products.

The recalled wipes were sold at Target stores nationwide and online at Target.com.

Target said it and the manufacturer have received a number of consumer complaints and adverse event reports alleging product discoloration and symptoms such as skin irritation, eye irritation, and infections potentially associated with the use of the product. The company said those reports remain under investigation.

The Up & Up Fragrance Free Baby Wipes were sold in 20, 72, 216, 800 and 1,200 count packages. Those wipes carry a manufacturing date code of November 7, 2025 (071125X/XX) to May 5, 2026 (050526X/XXX) and expiration dates between May 10, 2028 (100528) through November 5, 2028 (051128).

The Up & Up Fresh Cucumber Scented Baby Wipes were sold in 72, 216 and 800 count packages. Those wipes carry a manufacturing code of December 29, 2025 (291225X/XX) to December 30, 2025 (301225X/XX) and expiration dates between June 29, 2028 (290628) through June 30, 2028 (300628).

The company is urging customers to act. Consumers should immediately stop using the recalled products and return them to any Target store for a full refund. Customers can contact Target Guest Relations at 1-800-440-0680 from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. CT daily for more information.

Visitors to Kennedy Dells County Park can once again enjoy the park’s popular fitness trail following a major restoration and upgrade project.

The 1.5-mile fitness loop now features fully modernized exercise stations designed for stretching, strength training, and movement-based activities. County officials said the equipment was restored and enhanced after receiving strong public support from residents who wanted to see the fitness stations preserved.

The upgraded trail offers walkers, runners, and outdoor fitness enthusiasts a renewed opportunity to stay active while enjoying the natural beauty of Kennedy Dells County Park. Residents are encouraged to explore the reopened trail and make use of the improved fitness equipment during their next visit.

Francis Place in Monsey is closed between Nancy Lane and Ronald Drive after a tree fell onto utility wires and snapped an electrical pole in half during Saturday evening’s storm.

The incident has left more than 100 Orange & Rockland customers without power in the area. The estimated restoration time is currently unknown.

Ramapo Police and the Monsey Fire Department are on the scene.

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I witnessed something this week that I believe brought Hashem one of the greatest moments of Nachas from His heilige nation, Am Yisroel. When my beloved son Ari asked me to come out to Pomona for just a few minutes, I had no idea that I was about to witness something so deeply moving that I would spend the rest of the night searching for words to describe it.

We are a nation that, when tested, and severely tested, transcends every law of human nature. We are bound by something far beyond the natural: Banim Atem LaHashem Elokeichem. We are His children, and last night that truth was not a pasuk on a page. It was alive and breathing, weeping and embracing before my eyes.

Yes, we have our weaknesses, and yes, we can sometimes be found holding a grudge. But that is not who we are. At our core, at the deepest and most essential level of our neshamos, we are intrinsically one, and when push comes to shove, we love each other with a love stronger than anything this world can throw at us.

This week, little Shaindel bas Chaim Yehuda Leib was taken from us, tragically and suddenly, in a moment that has shattered worlds and left a void that words cannot begin to fill. The loss, the pain, and the shock are only beginning to set in, and things will perhaps never be exactly the same for the Herzberg family, for the family of the driver who struck her, and for everyone who loved her.

And beyond the grief itself, there was another layer to this tragedy, one everyone is aware of, a painful and almost unbearable dimension that could, in purely human terms, have led to something catastrophic, something that would have compounded tragedy upon tragedy.

But that is not what I witnessed.

We walked down the road leading to the Herzberg home, and as we walked, we passed the scene of the unspeakable tragedy. We passed it with trepidation, with a heaviness in our chests that no words can capture, and with the kind of silence that falls over you when you are standing at the intersection of the human and the divine, when you realize that something has happened here that cannot be undone, something that has forever changed the landscape of this quiet street and of so many special lives. We walked past it slowly and carefully, as if the ground itself was sacred and broken at once.

And then, after a walk that felt like hours, we arrived at the door. It was that beautiful, warm, open door of a Yiddishe home that represents everything Torah and Chesed stand for, the door that had welcomed so many with warmth and light, and with the feeling that inside these walls Hashem is present. We knocked softly, and it opened.

We walked in slowly, through the hallway and into the kitchen, the beating heart of this home. This was not just any kitchen. It was a kitchen where selfless conversations are held endlessly, where the only question ever asked is how to help another Yid, how to build more Torah, how to give more, how to do more, and how to be more. It was a kitchen where the currency is chesed and the language is ahavah, a heilige space, and we had come to it on the most painful of nights.

What unfolded in that kitchen at Chatzos is something I will carry with me for the rest of my life, something I do not have the words for, and yet I must try, because the world needs to know what Am Yisroel looks like when it reaches into its very soul.

Peering through rivers of tears, I saw Shaindel’s father and the driver holding each other, hugging, kissing, embracing with a love that only heilige Yidden can find in a moment like that. It was not a polite embrace, and it was not a stiff and painful courtesy. It was a real, deep, full embrace, the kind that says I see you, I feel your pain, you are my brother, and nothing, absolutely nothing, will ever change that. These were two men whose worlds had been torn apart, holding each other together.

I saw Mrs. Herzberg and the wife of the driver find each other, two Yiddishe Mamas, two mothers who understood at the deepest possible level what the other was carrying: the grief, the guilt, the love, the loss, all of it. And they held each other the way only mothers can, with every fiber, with trembling arms and broken hearts, and in that holding, something ancient and Heilig passed between them, something that no tragedy, no pain, and no human force could ever take away.

I saw Giluy Shechina. I saw human beings rising high, high above everything regular, everything natural, and everything expected. I saw modern-day Rachel and Leah.

And I felt, I truly felt, Hashem looking down and saying: This is My nation. This is why I chose them, and this is why I would choose them again.

חזו חזו בני חביבי דמשתכחין בצערא דלהון ועסקין בחדוותא דילי.

The very Sinas Chinam that brought us into Galus melted before my eyes, and in its place stood something ancient and unbreakable: the Ahavas Yisroel forged at Matan Torah, k’ish echad b’lev echad, the love that Hashem our Father hardwired into every single one of us. Last night, two families reached into the deepest, most hidden place inside themselves and found it, against all odds, in the most impossible moment.

We have so much to learn from these people. We need to learn what Ahava truly means, and what Emunah in Hashem and in His ultimate Hashgacha really looks like when it costs everything. Because the truth is that nobody does anything to you. Hashem is doing it all, in every moment and in every encounter, and every painful, confusing, heartbreaking chapter of our lives is written by His hand.

So let us not hold grudges, let us not hate, let us not pull away, and let us not allow distance to harden into walls. Let us dig deep, and then dig even deeper, and find the Ahavas Yisroel that is already there, waiting, always waiting, to help us embrace each other in our most difficult moments, when it is against all odds, when it costs us everything, and when it is the holiest thing we will ever do.

If I was proud to be a Yid before last night, I have never been this proud. Standing in that kitchen, witnessing what those two families gave each other and gave all of us, I felt it rise up from somewhere deep inside: Ashreinu Mah Tov Chelkeinu. How fortunate are we, how blessed is our portion, and how extraordinary is this nation.

That is what every person who walks through the door of this Shiva house should feel, and that is the gift these families are giving to every single one of us who is watching, listening, and learning.

So let us give something back. Let us give Shaindel, our sweet, beautiful Shaindel’e, a gift. Let us each drop a grudge today, the one we have been holding onto, the one we tell ourselves is justified, the one that has quietly hardened into something we no longer even examine. Let us let it go in her name.

Let us learn from the families involved in this awful tragedy what it means to truly embrace, to truly love, and to truly live as Banim LaHashem.

And in that merit, in the merit of Shaindel bas Chaim Yehuda Leib, in the merit of these two heilige families, and in the merit of every act of love, every dropped grudge, and every embrace that follows, may we finally, finally bring the Geulah Shleima.

Yehi zichra Baruch.

A very proud Yid,
בנימין א אייזענבערגער

Francis Place in Monsey is closed between Nancy Lane and Ronald Drive after a tree fell onto utility wires and snapped an electrical pole in half during Saturday evening’s storm.

The incident left more than 100 Orange & Rockland customers without power in the area. According to Orange & Rockland, power is currently estimated to be restored by 7:00 a.m. Sunday.

Ramapo Police remain on the scene. The Monsey Fire Department responded to the incident and has since cleared the scene.

UPDATE – 6:30AM POWER HAS BEEN RESTORED 

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Chaverim of Rockland will host its annual Kids Safety Day and Bike Registration Fair this Sunday, June 7, from 1:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at Viola Park’s Manny Welder Fields.

The family-friendly event will feature bike, scooter, and carriage registration, free snacks, drinks, and ices, along with displays from Chaverim Search & Rescue, the Chaverim Drone Team, Hatzolah, the Refuah Mobile, and the American Red Cross.

Attendees will also enjoy a petting zoo, a new motorbike show, amusement rides and balloon rides with a $5 unlimited-ride wristband, and a weather-permitting flyover and landing by the Rockland County Sheriff’s helicopter.

Safety demonstrations will be conducted by the Rockland County Sheriff’s Office, including its K-9 and Tactical Units, as well as Ramapo Police, Spring Valley Police, New York State Police, and the American Red Cross.

Free reflectors and helmets will be distributed throughout the event. Helmet giveaways are scheduled for girls at 1:00 p.m. and boys at 4:30 p.m.

Organizers are encouraging families from across Rockland County to attend the annual event for an afternoon of safety education, community engagement, and fun.

The Palisades Interstate Park Commission announced Thursday that it remains committed to the safe and responsible reopening of the Giant Stairs trail following a significant rockfall event earlier this year. The trail was closed immediately after the incident by park staff and the Palisades Interstate Parkway Police Department to protect public safety.

According to the Commission, experts are continuing to assess the unique geology of the Palisades cliffs, including the potential for future rockfalls and the stability of debris left behind by the incident. PIPC has engaged geologists, rockfall mitigation specialists, and other experts to conduct field investigations, review historical conditions, evaluate hazards, and develop both short- and long-term strategies for managing the area.

The Commission said it is currently working with experienced rockfall mitigation professionals to determine the safest path toward reopening the popular trail while ensuring the long-term protection of visitors. Officials noted that while restoring public access remains a priority, safety will continue to be the primary factor guiding all reopening decisions.

PIPC thanked hikers, park visitors, and members of the surrounding community for their patience and said additional updates will be provided as assessments continue. The Commission emphasized its commitment to preserving access to the Giant Stairs, one of the region’s most treasured natural landmarks, while protecting public safety for future generations.

The Village of Kaser has introduced its new BusTap Card system, designed to make riding village buses more convenient and eliminate the need to search for cash or single fares. The contactless transit cards are now available for purchase at Kaser Village Hall and Rockland Kosher Supermarket. Riders can create and fund their accounts on the spot before simply tapping the card when boarding a bus. The card costs $5, though customers who load $50 onto a new card will receive the card free of charge. Bus fares remain unchanged, according to village officials.

The Village also released its updated June 2026 transit schedule, which includes six routes serving destinations throughout the community and surrounding areas. The routes include Local, Local Shopping, Suffern, Marketplace, Rockland Kosher, and Rockland Kosher Express service. Officials encourage residents to review the updated schedules and route information before traveling.

Residents in Wesley Hills should prepare for traffic delays and occasional detours beginning within the next few weeks as Orange and Rockland Utilities (O&R) undertakes a major gas line replacement project along Grandview Avenue and a portion of Forshay Road.

The project, which is expected to continue through mid-November, will replace a gas main that is more than 60 years old. Work will begin near the Route 306 intersection and progress west along Grandview Avenue, ending at Willow Tree Road.

Most construction will take place during daytime hours. However, O&R plans to conduct overnight work on the section between Route 306 and Melany Drive to reduce daytime traffic disruptions and shorten the duration of construction in that area from several weeks to just a few days.

Motorists can expect periodic lane closures, detours, and traffic controlled by flaggers as crews work along the route. Village officials said O&R has committed to keeping residents informed throughout the project. The Village of Wesley Hills will share updates on traffic impacts, road closures, and advisories through its E-Alert system and website, while O&R will also contact affected homeowners directly with project information.

An innovative idea developed by the County of Rockland to strengthen school bus safety has now become state law. As part of the 2026 New York State Budget, municipalities are now authorized to establish a Traffic Camera Violations Bureau (TCVB) to handle school bus stop-arm camera violations. The legislation was developed from a concept by Rockland County after identifying challenges with processing violations through traditional court systems.

With the new law in place, the County is moving forward to create its own Traffic Camera Violations Bureau, an administrative court structure designed to support and enhance the County’s School Bus Stop-Arm camera enforcement program.

“Keeping our children safe on the way to and from school is the highest priority,” said Rockland County Executive Ed Day. “By creating a focused, efficient court process for school‑bus stop‑arm violations, we will deliver faster outcomes for residents, reduce strain on local courts, and restore the deterrent effect necessary to protect students. I applaud County Attorney Thomas Humbach who came up with the solution, along with Intergovernmental Relations & Public Policy Director Stephen J. Powers, both of whom worked hand in hand with BusPatrol, which carried the idea to Albany.”

Under this program, municipalities across the state will have the authority to appoint hearing examiners who will preside at hearings for violations, streamlining case processing while alleviating pressure on local courts, and further enhancing the safety goals of the School Bus Stop Arm protection program.

“These reforms strike the right balance between swift enforcement and rigorous due process,” said County Attorney Thomas Humbach. “A specialized Traffic Camera Violations Bureau staffed by experienced hearing examiners will ensure consistent, transparent decisions and give motorists meaningful opportunities to contest alleged violations more quickly, and more conveniently, than in local court.  In addition to having a traditional court room procedure, we intend to offer people the opportunity for video conference hearings and hearings on submissions alone, if that is what they prefer.  We thank our partners at BusPatrol and program staff for their work to bring this important safety reform to fruition.”

The School Bus Stop‑Arm Safety Program continues to demonstrate strong results, including:

• A 30.5% decrease in Notices of Violation (NOLs) issued between the start and end of the 2024–25 school year.
• 23% year‑over‑year reductions in violations.
• 90% of violators do not commit a second offense, showing the program’s effectiveness in deterring repeat behavior.

“This reform is a meaningful step forward for school bus safety, both in Rockland County and across New York State. The Traffic Camera Violations Bureau will provide motorists a clear and efficient path to due process, making the program fairer for everyone — and we’re proud to support Rockland’s continued commitment to keeping students safe,” said Justin Meyers, President & Chief Innovation Officer of BusPatrol.

Drivers who receive a citation can review, pay and/or contest their violation online at www.alertbus.com or call 1‑877‑504‑7080.

Members of the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW) Local 503 have ratified a new five-year labor agreement with Orange & Rockland Utilities (O&R), following a vote held Thursday evening.

According to O&R, the new contract includes updates to wages, medical coverage, and employee benefits. Company officials said the agreement reflects a collaborative effort to balance the needs of employees while maintaining the utility’s commitment to serving customers throughout the region.

“During negotiations, both sides wished to find common ground that would meet the needs of our employees but also allow us to meet our responsibilities to customers,” said O&R Director of Labor Relations Vany Vargas. “We believe that this contract extension achieves that goal.”

The previous labor agreement had been in effect since June 1, 2023. O&R employs 1,237 workers, including 589 union members represented by IBEW Local 503.

O&R, a subsidiary of Consolidated Edison, Inc., provides electric service to approximately 300,000 customers across southeastern New York and northern New Jersey, as well as natural gas service to roughly 140,000 customers in New York.

A Gun Buyback Event held Thursday was a success thanks to the collaborative efforts of the Rockland County Sheriff’s Office, the Spring Valley Police Department, the Ramapo Police Department, and the New York State Police.

A total of 19 firearms were voluntarily surrendered, including 11 handguns, 3 assault-style rifles, and 5 long guns. Officials say every firearm turned in represents one less opportunity for a weapon to be lost, stolen, misused, or involved in a tragedy.

“Every gun removed from our streets is a step toward a safer community,” officials said. “While we may never know the incidents that were prevented, each firearm collected today represents a positive investment in public safety and peace of mind for our residents.”

Over the past several months, I’ve noticed a growing number of advertisements promoting free food benefits through the SCN Medicaid program. While this program has been a tremendous help for many families, there is increasing concern that it is being overused by people who may not truly need the assistance.

I personally know families for whom this program has been a lifesaver — new mothers recovering from childbirth, pregnant women facing medical complications, caregivers of children with disabilities, and others going through genuine hardships. For these individuals, the support can make a significant difference.

Unfortunately, as awareness of the program has grown, so has the number of people signing up simply because the benefit is available. I’ve heard of food being ordered and ultimately thrown away, while families with urgent needs are now facing waiting lists and delays in receiving assistance.

Programs like these exist to help those who are struggling. When resources are stretched unnecessarily, it can make it harder for vulnerable families to access support when they need it most. There is also concern that continued overuse could eventually impact funding and the long-term availability of these benefits.

Before applying simply because you qualify, it may be worth asking yourself whether you truly need the assistance or whether those resources could better serve a family facing a more serious challenge.

Sincerely,

CG
Spring Valley

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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.

The Eruv of Monsey released its weekly inspection report ahead of Shabbos Parshas B’haloscha, detailing extensive repairs and maintenance completed across the Eruv system.

According to the report, Eruv checkers identified a total of 35 issues this week. Of those, 13 were classified as not kosher and required immediate attention, 10 were categorized as high-priority repairs, and the remainder were lower-priority maintenance items. Officials confirmed that all sections of the Eruv are currently kosher.

In Suffern, crews completed repairs after branches were found touching the Eruv wire along Campbell Avenue. In Airmont, crews coordinated with a Verizon utility pole crew on Eros Drive to complete repairs to a wire beneath a PVC lechi. Additional work was completed on Sparrowbush Road, where a wire being pushed by branches was secured.

In Chestnut Ridge, crews repaired a lechi and completed additional maintenance work throughout the area. Pearl River and Montebello were inspected and found to be fully operational.

Several repairs were completed within the Monsey Rambam Eruv. Along West Maple Avenue near Route 306, a tangled string was repaired and surrounding branches were trimmed. Crews also repaired a compromised fence after a new shortcut was opened between Beloved Road and Route 306, installing a new pole and string to restore the boundary. In the Monsey Rambam (Sh’lav 2), branches touching the Eruv string on North Saddle River Road were removed, while tangled strings were corrected on Viola Road and College Road near RCC.

In the Spring Valley Rambam section, crews cut branches touching the Eruv string at three separate locations along Route 45 near Route 59. Spring Valley, Nanuet, Wesley Hills, New Hempstead, New City, and Hillcrest were otherwise reported to be fully operational following inspections.

A major infrastructure project was completed in the Hillcrest/Pomona area, where crews completely rebuilt and upgraded the Eruv route along Ladentown Road near Route 202. The project included the installation of new wires and upgraded PVC infrastructure designed to strengthen the Eruv boundary.

In Haverstraw, crews repaired a broken lechi near a construction site along Route 202 and corrected two locations where wires had become tangled.

Officials also highlighted extensive maintenance work completed earlier in the week. On Monday and Tuesday, crews focused on clearing a backlog of lower-priority issues throughout the system, successfully resolving approximately 30 outstanding maintenance items. Additional work included an extensive inspection and clearing operation behind Pomona, where branches and overgrowth around the lechi line were removed, as well as upgrades to the Eruv route between Route 202 and Quaker Road.

Eruv officials confirmed that all necessary repairs and inspections were completed ahead of Shabbos, ensuring the Eruv remains fully operational for the community.

I was disappointed to read the recent Monsey Scoop article, “Senator Bill Weber Advocates For Child Care Funding to Help Rockland County Families.”

No one disputes that child care is one of the most urgent issues facing families in Rockland County. Parents are struggling with skyrocketing costs, providers are facing enormous challenges, and many families are desperately hoping for relief. That is exactly why public officials must be careful not to create expectations that do not match reality.

The article gives the impression that significant new child care funding has been secured for Rockland County. According to advocates who work on this issue every day, that simply is not the case.

The $155 million referenced in the announcement is not new funding specifically secured for Rockland County. In fact, advocates familiar with the issue estimate Rockland’s share will be approximately $2 million. While every dollar helps, that amount falls dramatically short of what is needed. Those working directly with child care providers and families estimate that Rockland requires more than $40 million annually to adequately address the current funding gap.

It is also important to understand that the state budget was passed by the Democratic majority. Senator Weber’s vote was not needed for passage, and there was no requirement for legislative leaders to negotiate with him or secure his support. While every elected official has the right to advocate for issues affecting their constituents, taking credit for statewide funding approved by others is misleading.

Perhaps most troubling is the confusion this announcement has caused. One of Rockland’s leading child care askonim expressed frustration after being inundated with calls from parents who believed substantial new assistance was now available. Families saw the headlines and understandably assumed meaningful relief had arrived. Unfortunately, that is simply not the reality.

Meanwhile, the real work continues. Community advocates, providers, and local leaders remain engaged in discussions with state officials in an effort to secure the level of funding Rockland families actually need. Assemblyman Aron Wieder has been working tirelessly behind the scenes on this issue, but despite ongoing efforts, no promises have been made and no comprehensive solution has been approved.

Credit should also be given to local leaders, including Joe Rand, whose advocacy helped bring Governor Hochul together directly with Rockland child care providers so she could hear firsthand about the challenges facing working families. Those conversations continue, and the fight for meaningful funding is far from over.

Child care is too important for political victory laps. Families need real solutions, real funding, and real relief. Until those goals are achieved, elected officials should focus less on press releases and more on delivering results.

Etty S.
Chestnut Ridge

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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.

Today marks the first yahrtzeit of Golda Eisenbach A”H, the daughter of longtime community askan and Spring Valley Deputy Mayor Yisroel Eisenbach, who was tragically killed in a horrific accident last year.

In a heartfelt tribute announced today, Hatzoloh EMS of Rockland County revealed plans to dedicate the Oxygen Supply Room at its new headquarters and garage currently under construction at 19 Grove Street in Monsey in Golda’s memory.

The dedication was announced in a letter sent by Hatzoloh leadership to Eisenbach, expressing appreciation for his many years of dedication, leadership, and service to the Rockland County community. The organization informed him that the Oxygen Supply Room, a vital component of the facility that supports lifesaving emergency medical care, will bear Golda’s name as a lasting memorial.

“As we mark Golda’s first yahrtzeit, we are deeply touched and humbled by this extraordinary gesture from Hatzoloh,” Yisroel Eisenbach and his family told Monsey Scoop. “Golda brought light, kindness, and joy to everyone around her, and knowing that her memory will be forever connected to the lifesaving work of Hatzoloh is incredibly meaningful to our family. We are grateful for the friendship, support, and compassion that Hatzoloh has shown us throughout this difficult year.”

“This room, which plays a vital role in supporting lifesaving care for countless patients, will stand as a lasting tribute to her memory,” the letter stated. Hatzoloh leaders added that they hope the dedication will serve as a meaningful zechus for Golda A”H and bring continued comfort and strength to the Eisenbach family.

A preliminary rendering of the dedication was also shared showing the memorial inscription that will be displayed above the Oxygen Room and Oxygen Refill Room inside the new facility.

The new Hatzoloh EMS of Rockland County headquarters and garage at 19 Grove Street is expected to serve as a central hub for the organization’s growing emergency medical operations throughout the county.

The dedication will ensure that Golda Eisenbach A”H’s memory remains forever connected to the lifesaving work performed within its walls.

An MVA occurred at approximately 12:45 a.m. Thursday at the intersection of Lawrence Street and Tallman Street in Spring Valley.

Sources tell Monsey Scoop that one of the vehicles involved fled the scene before crashing into a nearby property, after which the driver fled on foot. The driver of the second vehicle became trapped and was extricated by the Spring Valley Fire Department.

Hatzoloh EMS, Spring Hill EMS, the Spring Valley Police Department, and the Rockland County Sheriff’s Office responded to the scene. Minor injuries were reported, and police are investigating the incident.

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Martin Marks, the White House Director of Jewish Engagement, spent Wednesday visiting several prominent Chassidic Rebbe’s across New York in what sources described as a personal visit.

Marks began the day with a shiva call in New Square following the Petira of the Rachmastrivka Rebbetzin A”H. He later traveled to Kiryas Joel for a visit with the Satmar Rebbe and continued to Kaser, where he met with the Vizhnitz Rebbe.

The day concluded in New Square, where Marks attended the Chasuna of a great-granddaughter of the Skverer Rebbe.

Marks did not deliver any public remarks or speeches during the visits, as the trip was conducted in a personal capacity.

Rockland Paramedic Services has been awarded the prestigious American Heart Association Mission: LifeLine® Bronze Achievement Award, a national recognition honoring emergency medical service agencies that demonstrate excellence in providing rapid, evidence-based care to patients suffering from heart attacks and strokes.

The award recognizes Rockland Paramedic Services’ commitment to following proven treatment protocols that improve patient outcomes during some of the most critical medical emergencies. Cardiovascular diseases, including heart disease and stroke, remain the leading cause of death in the United States, claiming more lives annually than all forms of cancer and accidental deaths combined.

Officials said the recognition reflects years of investment in advanced training, quality improvement initiatives, and a continued focus on delivering the highest level of pre-hospital care. They credited the achievement to the dedication of their paramedics, dispatchers, and support personnel who work daily to ensure patients receive timely, lifesaving treatment.

The American Heart Association’s Mission: LifeLine program honors EMS agencies nationwide that consistently meet high standards in the treatment and transport of cardiac and stroke patients, helping improve survival rates and long-term outcomes for those facing medical emergencies.

The Suffern Central School District Board of Education has appointed Paul Tryon as the next principal of RP Connor Elementary School. The appointment was approved during the Board’s meeting on June 2.

Tryon brings more than 15 years of experience in education, including seven years as an elementary school principal and nine years as a teacher and literacy specialist. Throughout his career, he has served students in the Bronx, Brooklyn, and most recently in Saugerties, New York.

Superintendent Dr. Erik Gundersen welcomed the appointment, stating that community feedback played a key role in the selection process and expressing confidence that Tryon’s student-centered leadership and commitment to building strong relationships with families and staff will help the school continue to thrive.

Tryon said he is honored to join the Suffern Central community and looks forward to working closely with students, educators, and families. He emphasized his passion for helping every child reach their full potential and fostering a lifelong love of learning.

A strong advocate for early childhood education, Tryon is committed to providing students and teachers with the tools and resources needed for success while honoring the traditions and close-knit community that define RP Connor Elementary School.

Tryon will officially begin his new role on July 15, 2026, and is expected to spend time at the school before the current academic year concludes. District officials said opportunities for families and staff to meet him will be announced later this summer.

The West Haverstraw Fire Department is mourning the loss of Anthony “Tony” Holdampf, a longtime firefighter, veteran, and life member of Volunteer Hose Company No. 2, whose decades of service left a lasting impact on both the local community and the fire service.

Holdampf proudly served in the 101st Airborne Division before beginning a distinguished 37-year career with the FDNY. He started his career at Engine 43 in the Bronx before transferring to Ladder 19 in the South Bronx during the turbulent “War Years” of the 1960s and 1970s, when fires ravaged neighborhoods throughout the city. He later became a charter member of FDNY Tactical Control Unit 712, an elite unit assigned to some of the city’s most dangerous fires. Following the crisis years, Holdampf served with 37 Truck and ultimately retired from 52 Truck in Riverdale.

Following his retirement from the FDNY, Holdampf continued his commitment to public service by joining Volunteer Hose Company No. 2 in West Haverstraw. A dedicated life member, he was honored as Rockland County Fireman of the Year in 2001 for his heroic actions.

His passion for firefighting extended to his family, inspiring his son, David Holdampf, a member of the FDNY and current Second Assistant Chief of the West Haverstraw Fire Department, as well as his son-in-law, Robert “Bobby” LaGrow, an FDNY firefighter and former Chief of the department.

Beyond his firefighting accomplishments, Holdampf was known for his generosity, craftsmanship, and willingness to help others. Fellow firefighters credited him with contributing countless hours and skills to construction and improvement projects around the firehouse. They remembered him as someone who could always be counted on in any situation.

In a statement, Volunteer Hose Company No. 2 described Holdampf as a quiet but impactful individual with a sharp sense of humor who was always ready to lend a helping hand. Members said they will deeply miss their friend and brother firefighter.

Senator Bill Weber, a member of the Senate Children and Families Committee, has directly advocated for childcare vouchers with OCFS Commissioner Harris-Madden.

Due to Senator Weber’s advocacy, additional childcare funding was included in the 2026-2027 state budget.

There is $789 million in new statewide childcare funds in the 2027 funding bill. Senator Weber broke with his own party and voted for the funding bill to help families afford care.

The Child Care Assistance Program helps eligible working families pay for care, enabling parents to stay employed, support children, and manage costs.

The budget provides $155 million in supplemental funding to counties outside New York City, including Rockland County, to help cover eligible child care costs that exceed their regular county allocations. The budget also grants counties more flexibility by allowing the funding to be used over a longer period, making it more practical for counties and more reliable for families.

The Office of Children and Family Services will provide counties with more details, including specific funding amounts and claiming instructions.

Historically, those notices are issued during the summer, often around July or August.

“Child care costs are a major concern for families across Rockland County,” Senator Weber said. “I advocated for this funding and voted for this budget because it provides important child care funding, supports working parents, and helps bring needed resources back to our community.”

Senator Weber will continue working to ensure Rockland County gets its fair share return on state tax dollars sent to Albany.

“Delivering for Rockland families is my priority,” Senator Weber said. “This funding helps parents stay in the workforce, supports our children, and strengthens our economy.”

Senator Bill Weber, a member of the Senate Children and Families Committee, has directly advocated for childcare vouchers with OCFS Commissioner Harris-Madden.

Due to Senator Weber’s advocacy, additional childcare funding was included in the 2026-2027 state budget.

There is $789 million in new statewide childcare funds in the 2027 funding bill. Senator Weber broke with his own party and voted for the funding bill to help families afford care.

The Child Care Assistance Program helps eligible working families pay for care, enabling parents to stay employed, support children, and manage costs.

The budget provides $155 million in supplemental funding to counties outside New York City, including Rockland County, to help cover eligible child care costs that exceed their regular county allocations. The budget also grants counties more flexibility by allowing the funding to be used over a longer period, making it more practical for counties and more reliable for families.

The Office of Children and Family Services will provide counties with more details, including specific funding amounts and claiming instructions.

Historically, those notices are issued during the summer, often around July or August.

“Child care costs are a major concern for families across Rockland County,” Senator Weber said. “I advocated for this funding and voted for this budget because it provides important child care funding, supports working parents, and helps bring needed resources back to our community.”

Senator Weber will continue working to ensure Rockland County gets its fair share return on state tax dollars sent to Albany.

“Delivering for Rockland families is my priority,” Senator Weber said. “This funding helps parents stay in the workforce, supports our children, and strengthens our economy.”

The Community Outreach Center has announced a special First Aid Workshop for women, featuring a female instructor and designed to provide practical emergency response skills in a comfortable and welcoming environment.

The workshop will take place on Thursday, June 11, from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. and will focus on important first aid topics that every mother should know, including how to respond to burns, choking incidents, cuts, bruises, and other common household emergencies.

Organizers say the program is being offered completely free of charge and marks the first time such a course is being presented through the Community Outreach Center.

Space is limited, and registration will be accepted on a first-come, first-served basis. Those interested are encouraged to register as soon as possible using the following link.

Chief officers, administrative officials, and fire district commissioners from the Monsey Fire Department (Dept 7) recently traveled to Florida to oversee the start of construction on a brand-new fire truck that will be added to the department’s fleet.

The new apparatus is being built to help meet the growing needs of the department following the opening of a new substation, where an existing truck has been assigned. In addition, several trucks currently in service are aging, prompting the department to invest in a new state-of-the-art apparatus.

During their visit, department officials met with representatives from the manufacturer to review the truck’s specifications, equipment, and features, ensuring it will be built to meet the operational needs of Monsey firefighters and the community they serve. Officials also had the opportunity to examine various options and configurations before construction moves forward.

The new fire truck is expected to be completed and delivered to Monsey in approximately 12 months.

Photos from the trip show department leaders working closely with manufacturer representatives as construction gets underway on the department’s newest apparatus.

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The Clarkstown Police Department has announced the promotion of Police Officer Kevin McCahey to the rank of Sergeant.

Sgt. McCahey began his law enforcement career with the New York City Police Department in January 2015 before joining the Clarkstown Police Department in 2018. During his tenure in Clarkstown, he has served in several key roles, including as a member of the department’s Critical Incident Response Team (CIRT), a Field Training Officer, and a Drill Instructor at the police academy.

Following his promotion, Sgt. McCahey will be assigned to the Patrol Division, where he will continue serving and protecting residents throughout the Clarkstown community.

The Clarkstown Police Department congratulated Sgt. McCahey on his well-deserved promotion and wished him continued success in his new role.

Rockland County District Attorney Thomas E. Walsh II announced that Eduardo Hernandez, 49, of Garnerville, has been sentenced to 14 years in state prison after being convicted of Kidnapping in the Second Degree for the abduction of a woman in the Village of Haverstraw in September 2025.

According to prosecutors, Hernandez attacked a woman outside a residence, restrained her, and threatened her with a screwdriver before the victim successfully fought him off and called for help. Witnesses provided investigators with information that led to Hernandez’s identification and arrest the following day in Stony Point after a brief foot pursuit.

The District Attorney’s Office noted that Hernandez has an extensive violent criminal history, including prior kidnapping convictions that resulted in nearly two decades of imprisonment. He had been released from state prison in 2022 before committing the latest offense.

District Attorney Walsh praised the victim’s courage and the coordinated efforts of the Haverstraw Police Department, Stony Point Police Department, and Rockland County Sheriff’s Office that led to Hernandez’s arrest and conviction.

“The danger that this man poses to the community cannot be understated,” Walsh said. “This sentence ensures the defendant will spend the next 14 years behind bars.”

The case was prosecuted by Supervising Assistant District Attorney Gerard M. Damiani III and Senior Assistant District Attorney Kaitlin DeLuca of the Special Victims Unit.

Rockland County residents now have a new resource to help protect one of the county’s most important natural assets: its water supply.

The Rockland County Task Force on Water Resources Management has officially been renamed the Rockland County Water Advisory Council, reflecting recent updates to its enabling legislation and a renewed focus on long-term water resource planning and public engagement.

Alongside the name change, the Council has launched a new public website aimed at helping residents, businesses, educators, and municipalities better understand water conservation, local water resources, and practical ways to reduce water usage and protect the county’s water supply.

According to county officials, the updated legislation modernizes and clarifies the Council’s authority, membership, and responsibilities, ensuring it can continue serving as a stakeholder network focused on developing and implementing a sustainable long-term water supply plan for Rockland County.

“The Water Advisory Council, with a new name, expanded membership, and new website, will empower community leaders, industry partners and consumers alike to steward our water supply in the years and decades ahead,” said Rockland County Legislator Beth Davidson, who chairs the Council.

The new website serves as a central hub for conservation tips, educational materials, webinar registration, and community outreach initiatives. The project was funded through the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation as part of ongoing efforts to increase public awareness about sustainable water use and long-term water resource protection.

As part of its educational programming, the Water Advisory Council will host a free public webinar on June 9 from 1:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m. titled “The Rivers in Our Backyard: Hudson and Hackensack.” The webinar, held in recognition of National Rivers Month, will feature experts from Riverkeeper and Hackensack Riverkeeper discussing local water quality, conservation efforts, and community-based initiatives to protect regional waterways.

Residents can visit the Council’s new website to learn more, access educational resources, and register for upcoming programs and events.

The Rockland County Legislature has voted to authorize participation in New York State’s Youth Deer Hunting Program, allowing eligible 12- and 13-year-olds to hunt deer under the direct supervision of a licensed adult.

The state pilot program, first established in 2021 and extended through the 2028 hunting season, permits participating counties to opt in through local law. Youth hunters must complete state-approved hunter safety courses, obtain valid hunting licenses, and remain under the supervision of a parent, guardian, or qualified mentor while hunting.

Rockland County Majority Leader Alden Wolfe, who sponsored the measure, said the program provides valuable opportunities for outdoor education, mentorship, and conservation awareness.

“This is about responsible participation, education, and passing down outdoor traditions in a safe and structured environment,” Wolfe said. “The program encourages young people to learn firearm and hunting safety, conservation principles, responsibility, and respect for nature while spending time outdoors with parents, guardians, or experienced mentors.”

According to the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation, no hunting-related shooting incidents, violations, or license revocations involving 12- and 13-year-old participants were reported during the program’s first four years. The state also reported more than 12,600 youth hunting licenses were issued during the 2025-26 big game season.

If signed by County Executive Ed Day, Rockland County will become the final eligible county in New York State to participate in the program.

Officials noted that all existing state restrictions regarding hunting seasons, locations, landowner permissions, bag limits, and safety requirements will remain in effect. Hunting remains prohibited in all Rockland County, town, and village parks.

The closure of Route 59 over South Pascack Road is now in effect and is expected to remain in place until just before Labor Day as part of a major bridge rehabilitation project. Motorists should expect significant delays and seek alternate routes whenever possible.

FULL DETAILS:

The Satmar Rav of Monsey, Harav Avrohom Hersh Wosner Shlita, recently toured various sections of the Monsey Eruv to personally inspect numerous upgrades and improvements that have been completed over the past several months.

During the visit, the Rav reviewed several projects undertaken to strengthen and enhance the Eruv and expressed great satisfaction with the quality of the work and the significant progress that has been made. The Rav noted the tremendous effort, dedication, and ongoing commitment required to maintain an Eruv serving such a large and growing community.

Harav Wosner also conveyed his appreciation to the Eruv Askonim, inspectors, and volunteers whose tireless work throughout the year ensures the Eruv remains in excellent condition for the benefit of Klal Yisroel.

Congressman Mike Lawler is applauding President Donald Trump’s decision to posthumously award the Presidential Medal of Freedom to Welles Remy Crowther, the famed “Man in the Red Bandanna,” while continuing to push bipartisan legislation that would grant the 9/11 hero a Congressional Gold Medal.

The announcement was made by President Trump during his visit to Suffern on May 22, where he revealed that Crowther would receive the nation’s highest civilian honor as the country approaches the 25th anniversary of the September 11 terrorist attacks.

Crowther, who was raised in Upper Nyack and served as a volunteer firefighter, was working as an equities trader on the 104th floor of the South Tower of the World Trade Center on September 11, 2001. Following the impact of Flight 175, Crowther repeatedly risked his own life to help others escape.

Survivors later recounted how a young man wearing a red bandanna led groups of trapped individuals to safety through smoke-filled stairwells, carried an injured woman down 17 flights of stairs, and repeatedly returned to rescue more victims. Crowther ultimately perished when the South Tower collapsed.

His heroic actions remained largely unknown until survivors came forward months later describing the mysterious “man in the red bandanna.” Through their accounts, his family learned of the extraordinary sacrifices he made during his final hours.

“Welles’ story has become part of our nation’s conscience, reminding us that in our darkest moments, extraordinary courage can emerge,” Lawler said. “I’m grateful to President Trump for ensuring his heroism receives this highest civilian recognition. Congress now has an opportunity to build on that legacy and award Welles the Congressional Gold Medal, one of our nation’s highest expressions of gratitude.”

Lawler has introduced H.R. 5519, legislation that would posthumously award Crowther a Congressional Gold Medal in recognition of his bravery, leadership, and sacrifice on September 11, 2001. The measure has received bipartisan support and endorsements from the Welles Remy Crowther Charitable Trust, America250, 9/11 Day, and the bipartisan Problem Solvers Caucus.

Patrick McCavanagh, Vice President of the Welles Remy Crowther Charitable Trust and a former Boston College lacrosse teammate of Crowther, said the Presidential Medal of Freedom is a deeply meaningful honor for Crowther’s family, friends, and all those who have helped preserve his legacy over the past 25 years.

“We are deeply grateful to President Trump for honoring Welles Remy Crowther with the Presidential Medal of Freedom,” McCavanagh said. “Welles never sought recognition—he simply lived with courage, humility, and a commitment to serving others.”

President Trump praised Crowther while announcing the award, calling attention to his heroism and the values he embodied.

“As we are approaching the 25th anniversary of September 11th, 2001, a dark day that will live in infamy, we are posthumously awarding Welles the Presidential Medal of Freedom,” Trump said. “I want to congratulate his great mother on doing a phenomenal job in raising that young man.”

Supporters of the Congressional Gold Medal effort say honoring Crowther with both distinctions would ensure that his legacy of courage, sacrifice, and selfless service continues to inspire future generations of Americans.

The Presidential Medal of Freedom is the nation’s highest civilian honor awarded by the President, while the Congressional Gold Medal is one of the highest civilian honors bestowed by Congress.

Monsey Scoop regrets to inform you of the tragic petira of 8-year-old Shaindel Herzberg A”H, beloved daughter of Yudi and Chumie Herzberg.

Shaindel was critically injured Tuesday evening after being struck by a vehicle while riding her bicycle on Tiffin Lane in Pomona. Rockland Hatzoloh volunteers, paramedics, and emergency personnel responded immediately and utilized every available life-saving measure in a valiant effort to save her life. She was transported to Nyack Hospital in critical condition.

Despite the tireless efforts of Hatzoloh volunteers, paramedics, physicians, and hospital staff, Shaindel sadly succumbed to her injuries.

Misaskim, Chesed Shel Emes and Chaverim of Rockland are on the scene ensuring proper kavod hameis.

The Levaya will take place Wednesday morning at 11:00AM at the Monsey Beis HaChaim on Brick Church Road. Besuros Tovois!

Besuros Tovois!

A child riding a bicycle was struck by a vehicle on Tiffin Lane at approximately 5:40 p.m. Tuesday.

Hatzoloh EMS rushed the child to Nyack Hospital in traumatic arrest.

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

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Following questions raised by Kohanim regarding travel along Brick Church Road, where tree branches from cemeteries were extending over portions of the roadway, the Dayanim of the Skvere Kehilla in Monsey worked to address the issue and remove any concerns.

Although the matter involved a chumra and not a clear halachic prohibition, the Dayanim sought to ensure that Kohanim would be able to travel the road without hesitation. After discussions with the relevant parties, the overhanging trees were recently cut, eliminating the concern.

In a gesture appreciated by community members, the church responsible for the property reportedly covered the cost of the tree removal. Residents noted that the cooperative effort helped accommodate the needs of Kohanim.

The Vien Kehilla in Monsey celebrated a Siyum on Maseches Gittin and the commencement of Maseches Kiddushin as part of its ongoing learning program. The event was attended by the Vien Rebbe Shlita, who joined participants in marking the completion of one masechta and the beginning of another.

The New York State Assembly passed Bill A11146B, sponsored by Assemblyman Aaron Wieder, requiring unclaimed remains to be entered into the National Missing and Unidentified Persons System (NEMAS) before any final disposition.

The measure seeks to strengthen identification efforts and protect religious burial practices, particularly for Jewish and Muslim families for whom cremation is not consistent with their faith.

Speaking on the floor before the vote, Assemblyman Wieder delivered an impassioned address: “This bill is about dignity, respect, and the freedom we cherish as Americans. We value religious liberty not only in life but in death.”

He added: “No person should lose their dignity in death simply because they died alone or unidentified. Every human being deserves dignity in death.”

Wieder emphasized that “the dignity and freedoms cherished by Americans should not end with one final breath.”

The bill has now advanced to the New York State Senate for further consideration.

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The Monsey kehilla is preparing to greet the largest delegation of gedolei Yisroel ever to travel on behalf of Keren Olam HaTorah, with the gedolim set to be in the town on Friday, June 12, and Shabbos, June 13, as part of a fundraising mission that begins next week.

The delegation traveling for the mission will include the Roshei Yeshiva of Slabodka,  Harav Dov Landau shlit”a and Harav Moshe Hillel Hirsch shlit”a; Harav Yaakov Hillel shlit”a, Rosh Yeshiva, Ahavat Shalom; the Mashgiach Harav Don Segal shlit”a; Harav Shimon Galai shlit”a; Harav Avraham Salim shlit”a, Rosh Yeshivas Maor HaTorah, ; Harav Asher Weiss shlit”a, Rosh Yeshivas Darchei Torah; Harav Yosef Chevroni shlit”a, Rosh Yeshivas Chevron; Harav Yisroel Bunim Schreiber shlit”a, Rosh Yeshivas Nesiv Hadaas; the Rachmastrivka Rebbe shlit”a, and Harav Chaim Mordechai Ausband shlit”a, Rosh Yeshivas Ateres Shlomo. 

The trip comes as the olam haTorah continues to be assailed from two directions: the sweeping government funding freeze that has crippled yeshivos and kollelim for more than two years, and the intensifying gezeiras hagiyus, with bochurim now being arrested for refusing to enlist. The gedolim convened earlier this week in Bnei Brak to deliberate next steps, and the consensus was that the time for action had come.

The current itinerary is scheduled as follows:

• Sunday, June 7: Baltimore
• Monday, June 8: Lakewood
• Tuesday, June 9: Chicago
• Wednesday, June 10: Brooklyn
• Thursday, June 11: Lakewood
• Friday, June 12: Monsey
• Sunday, June 14: Florida

Specific details for each stop, including event locations and times, are expected to be released in the coming days.

Thousands of Yidden participated in the levaya and kevurah of Rachmistrivka Rebbetzin Miriam Twersky A”H, accompanying the mitah from Boro Park to New Square, Monsey, and ultimately Har Shalom Beis HaChaim in Airmont, where the kevurah took place. Photos and videos from throughout the day.

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In a significant show of support for Rockland County’s Orthodox Jewish community, Governor Kathy Hochul traveled to Wesley Hills on Sunday for a high-level meeting with Orthodox elected officials, mayors, trustees, community activists, and leaders from across the county, where she unveiled a series of policy initiatives that were met with enthusiastic applause and widespread praise from those in attendance.

The Governor was welcomed by a packed room of community leaders, including Ramapo Supervisor Michael Specht’s Chief of Staff Mona Montal, Assemblyman Aron Wieder, New Square Mayor Izzy Spitzer, Kaser Mayor Allie Pinkasovits, Rockland County Legislator Itamar Yeger, Democratic State Senate candidate Joe Rand, community activists Yehuda Zorger and Meyer Tauber, along with numerous mayors, deputy mayors, trustees, and public officials representing communities throughout Rockland County.

Serving as master of ceremonies, community activist Yehuda Zorger opened the gathering by thanking Governor Hochul for what he described as her consistent support of Rockland County’s growing Orthodox community. He specifically highlighted the Governor’s expansion of security funding for religious schools and institutions, as well as the $10 million Momentum Infrastructure Grant awarded to the Town of Ramapo to help address critical infrastructure needs.

Governor Hochul then took the podium and delivered what many attendees described as one of her strongest and most direct addresses yet to the Orthodox community.

Among the major announcements made during the meeting was the Governor’s commitment to expanding security funding for religious schools and institutions at a time when Jewish communities continue to face rising threats and antisemitism. Hochul emphasized that protecting students, houses of worship, and religious institutions remains a top priority of her administration.

The Governor also revealed that her administration is moving forward with revisions to New York’s State Environmental Quality Review Act (SEQRA), a move that community leaders believe could significantly ease obstacles to responsible housing and community development projects throughout the state.

Perhaps the most enthusiastically received announcement came when Hochul discussed legislation she signed Sunday establishing a 50-foot buffer zone around houses of worship. The measure is intended to strengthen protections for religious institutions and safeguard religious freedom. The announcement drew immediate excitement from mayors, supervisors, and municipal officials in attendance, many of whom have long advocated for additional protections for houses of worship.

Addressing the sharp rise in antisemitic incidents since the October 7 attacks in Israel, Hochul spoke candidly about what she described as a troubling increase in hostility directed toward Jewish communities throughout New York. Rather than seeing greater sympathy for Israel and the Jewish people, she noted, many communities have experienced the opposite.

The Governor highlighted New York’s recently enacted restrictions targeting masked intimidation during protests and reiterated her administration’s commitment to combating antisemitism wherever it appears. She also referenced her participation in the Israel Day Parade in Manhattan and reaffirmed her unwavering support for New York’s Jewish communities.

Assemblyman Aron Wieder thanked the Governor for her partnership on issues affecting Rockland County residents and discussed several legislative initiatives currently being advanced with support from the Governor’s office. During the discussion, Hochul encouraged Wieder to pursue additional legislation based on concerns raised during the meeting.

New Square Mayor Izzy Spitzer spoke about his longstanding relationship with the Governor and thanked her for her continued responsiveness to the needs of New Square and the broader Orthodox community. Legislator Itamar Yeger also expressed appreciation for Hochul’s attention to local concerns and her willingness to engage directly with community leaders.

Following the formal presentations, the meeting shifted into an extended question-and-answer session. Mayors, deputy mayors, trustees, and community representatives raised a wide range of issues affecting their municipalities. Hochul listened attentively, frequently taking notes while directing senior members of her staff to review concerns and provide follow-up.

Participants noted that the Governor repeatedly stressed that the meeting was not merely ceremonial and that she wanted actionable solutions. In a sign of that commitment, attendees reported that members of the Governor’s staff had already begun following up Monday morning on several matters raised during Sunday’s discussion.

Democratic State Senate candidate Joe Rand also addressed attendees, speaking about the warmth and hospitality he has experienced while meeting residents and leaders throughout Ramapo. Rand praised Governor Hochul’s leadership and echoed her message of engagement across all communities, emphasizing his commitment to representing every resident of Rockland County.

Governor Hochul also voiced her support for Rand’s candidacy, stating that she looks forward to working with him in Albany should he be elected to the State Senate. The Governor said she believes such a partnership would help advance priorities important to Rockland County residents and continue delivering results for the Orthodox Jewish community and the county as a whole.

After concluding the meeting with elected officials and community leaders, Governor Hochul held a separate discussion with private school and daycare administrators to address funding concerns and educational issues affecting their institutions.

The Governor’s visit concluded with a private fundraiser in Wesley Hills, capping off a day that many local leaders described as one of the most substantive and productive gubernatorial visits the Orthodox community has seen in recent years.

As the meeting came to a close, Yehuda Zorger thanked the Governor for making the trip to Rockland County and invited her to return. Smiling, Hochul assured attendees that she would.

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The Village of Airmont has announced that Orange & Rockland Utilities (O&R), along with contractor Riggs and Distler Inc., will begin a gas main replacement project on Stage Street starting June 4. The infrastructure upgrade will include the installation of approximately 650 feet of new gas main and is expected to continue through June 18, weather permitting.

The project, which represents a $315,941 investment in the neighborhood’s natural gas infrastructure, is intended to improve the safety, reliability, and performance of the local gas distribution system. Following the installation of the new main, contractors will coordinate directly with affected homeowners to complete service connections, which may include relocating indoor gas meters and regulators to the exterior of homes for easier access by utility personnel.

Residents should expect construction activity in the area, including possible excavation on private property, temporary roadway trenches, and brief gas service interruptions during the transition to the new gas main. O&R stated that all disturbed areas will be restored, including lawn reseeding and surface repairs, and road plates will be used to maintain driveway access and safe passage. A dedicated inspector will be on-site throughout the project, and utility crews will relight appliance pilot lights following any service interruptions.

Village officials are asking residents for their patience and cooperation as the work is completed.

The New York State Senate today passed legislation (S6233A) co-sponsored by Rockland County Senator Bill Weber that would significantly increase tax credits for volunteer firefighters and EMS personnel.

The measure, which Senator Weber also co-sponsored when it passed the Senate in 2024 and died in the Assembly that year, raises the state income tax credit for eligible volunteers from $200 to $800. For married couples filing jointly where both spouses qualify, the credit would increase to $1,600. The legislation also updates real property tax exemptions for qualifying volunteers.

The bill passed the State Assembly for the first time last week and now awaits review and possible signature or veto by Governor Kathy Hochul.

“Volunteer firefighters and EMS personnel dedicate countless hours to protecting our communities, often at great personal sacrifice,” said Senator Weber. “I was proud to once again co-sponsor and vote in favor of this meaningful legislation. Providing a meaningful tax incentive will help strengthen recruitment and retention efforts while recognizing the invaluable service these dedicated men and women provide every day.”

Rockland County Executive Ed Day & Rockland County Office of Fire and Emergency Services (OFES) Director Chris Kear are proud to announce the County’s Higher Education Recruitment & Retention Opportunities (HERRO) Program has reimbursed more than $771,000 in college tuition to 313 volunteer firefighters and EMS personnel since its launch in 2023.

The HERRO program was created to address growing challenges in recruiting and retaining volunteer emergency responders, both locally and nationwide. Fire departments and EMS agencies rely heavily on volunteers, yet many young people struggle to take on these demanding responsibilities while juggling the financial burdens of higher education.

“Volunteer first responders make extraordinary sacrifices,” said County Executive Ed Day. “They leave home, work, or class at a moment’s notice to help someone in crisis. By easing the cost of attending college, we can make it easier for them to continue serving while pursuing their goals.”

The HERRO program reimburses eligible volunteers up to $6,000 per year—$3,000 per semester—for tuition expenses at accredited institutions. This initiative has already become a crucial tool for recruitment and retention, directly supporting the individuals who form the backbone of Rockland’s emergency response system.
Last year, Rockland’s EMS agencies responded to over 70,000 calls, while fire departments handled more than 11,000 emergencies. These calls represent thousands of situations where volunteers stepped forward to protect their community.

“Our volunteers are essential to the safety and resilience of Rockland County,” said OFES Director Chris Kear. “The HERROS program is a tangible way to show our gratitude and ensure these agencies remain strong for years to come.”

The County encourages all eligible volunteer Fire and EMS volunteers to explore the HERRO program and apply.

Details on requirements, documentation, and deadlines can be found at RocklandCountyNY.gov under the Fire & Emergency Services section.

Refuah Health officially celebrated the grand opening of its newest healthcare facility at 142 Route 59 in Monsey on Sunday, marking another significant expansion of medical services available to residents throughout Rockland County.

The event drew a large crowd of elected officials, community leaders, healthcare professionals, and local residents who gathered to tour the state-of-the-art facility and recognize Refuah Health’s continued commitment to providing accessible, high-quality healthcare to the community.

Among those in attendance were New York State Assembly Member Aron Wieder and Rockland County Legislator Moshe Hopstein, who joined Refuah Health leadership for a ribbon-cutting ceremony and toured the new offices. Guests were given an inside look at the facility’s modern medical spaces and learned about the services that will be offered at the location.

Speakers highlighted Refuah Health’s longstanding role in serving families across Rockland County and emphasized the growing need for expanded healthcare resources as the local population continues to increase. Community leaders praised the organization for its dedication to ensuring residents have access to quality medical care close to home.

The new Route 59 location represents another major milestone for Refuah Health, further strengthening healthcare options available to Monsey residents and neighboring communities. Attendees expressed appreciation for the investment in local healthcare infrastructure and the organization’s ongoing efforts to meet the needs of the community.

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Monsey Scoop regrets to inform its readers of the petira of Rebbetzin Miriam Twersky A”H, the Rachmistrivka Rebbetzin, wife of the late Rachmistrivka Rebbe, Harav Chai Yitzchok Twerski Zt”l, and mother of the current Rachmistrivka Rebbes. She was 93 years old.

The Rebbetzin was rushed to Mount Sinai Hospital on Sunday in critical condition. On Monday morning, following a significant deterioration in her condition, family members were called to her bedside, where she was subsequently niftar.

Rebbetzin Miriam A”H was the daughter of the previous Skverer Rebbe, Harav Yaakov Yosef Twersky Zt”l, and was a beloved matriarch of one of the most prominent chassidic dynasties. For decades, she stood at the side of her husband, the Rachmistrivka Rebbe Zt”l, who was niftar in 2023, serving as a source of strength, dignity, and inspiration to generations of chassidim and family members.

The Levaya is tentatively scheduled to take place Monday at 1:30 p.m. at the Rachmistrivka Beis Hamedrish in Boro Park, followed by a stop in New Square at 4:00 p.m. The Levaya will then continue at 4:45 p.m. at the Rachmistrivka Beis Hamedrish on Hopal Lane in Monsey, followed by the Kevurah at the Rachmistrivka chelka in Har Shalom Beis HaChaim in Airmont.

Baruch Dayan HaEmes.

Congressman Mike Lawler announced that his New York offices have officially closed more than 9,000 constituent service cases, marking a significant milestone in assisting residents throughout the Hudson Valley.

According to Lawler, his casework team has helped constituents navigate a wide range of issues involving federal agencies, including securing benefits for veterans, assisting seniors with Social Security and Medicare matters, resolving passport delays, and helping families address concerns with various government agencies.

“Serving our community and delivering results is at the heart of what we do,” Lawler said, praising his staff for their dedication and commitment to helping Hudson Valley residents. He added that his office remains available to assist individuals and families who need help dealing with federal agencies.

Lawler credited the achievement to the hard work of his constituent services team and reaffirmed his commitment to providing responsive assistance to residents across New York’s 17th Congressional District.

The Rockland County Legislature has unanimously approved a resolution supporting proposed New York State legislation that would establish a 15-foot safety buffer around first responders, judges, and prosecutors while they are performing their official duties.

The resolution, sponsored by Rockland County Majority Leader Alden H. Wolfe, was passed on May 19 and reflects the Legislature’s continued commitment to public safety and the protection of those serving on the front lines of emergencies and the justice system.

The proposed legislation, Assembly Bill A10621 and Senate Bill S09974, would create a designated 15-foot safety zone around first responders, judges, and prosecutors engaged in official duties. Under the bill, individuals who intentionally interfere after receiving a verbal warning could face misdemeanor charges. The legislation also makes clear that members of the public may continue to lawfully observe or record incidents from outside the designated safety area.

“This legislation is about protecting the men and women who put themselves in harm’s way every day to protect the public,” Wolfe said. “First responders need to be able to focus on the emergency at hand without unnecessary interference or dangerous crowding around active scenes.”

The proposal has received strong support from law enforcement organizations across Rockland County, including the Rockland County Police Benevolent Association and the Rockland County Sheriff’s Deputies Association. Representatives from both groups joined members of the Public Safety Alliance in Albany last month to advocate for the legislation.

“Our deputies and first responders routinely work in fast-moving, unpredictable, and sometimes dangerous situations,” said RCSDA President Rich Madden. “Creating a clearly defined safety zone around emergency scenes is a commonsense measure that helps first responders do their jobs safely and efficiently while also protecting the public.”

Rockland County PBA President Sean O’Connor said emergency scenes have become increasingly difficult environments for responders due to crowding and interference from bystanders.

“Whether deputies are responding to crashes, medical emergencies, fires, or volatile incidents, maintaining a secure working area is essential,” O’Connor said.

The legislation has already passed the New York State Assembly and is currently under consideration in the State Senate.

CCTV footage captured the moment a reportedly intoxicated driver struck two parked vehicles and overturned on Kennedy Drive near Alan Road in Spring Valley at approximately 5:00 p.m. Saturday.

The dramatic crash left the vehicle overturned in the roadway, prompting nearby Good Samaritan bystanders to rush to the scene. Before emergency personnel arrived, several bystanders helped extricate the driver from the overturned vehicle.

Spring Hill EMS, the Spring Valley Fire Department, and Spring Valley Police responded to the scene. Minor injuries were reported, and the driver was transported to a local hospital in police custody after being arrested for DWI.

Monsey Scoop has obtained CCTV footage showing the moments leading up to and including the crash.

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The New York State Police announced that troopers issued a total of 11,104 tickets statewide during the Memorial Day Weekend traffic enforcement campaign, which ran from Friday, May 22 through Monday, May 25.

The initiative, partially funded by the Governor’s Traffic Safety Committee, focused on impaired driving, speeding, distracted driving, seatbelt compliance, and enforcement of New York’s Move Over Law. State Police utilized sobriety checkpoints, increased DWI patrols, and targeted drivers using handheld electronic devices while behind the wheel.

During the enforcement period, troopers arrested 211 motorists for Driving While Intoxicated (DWI) and investigated 693 crashes statewide, including four fatal crashes.

Statewide, troopers issued 3,116 speeding tickets, 338 distracted driving citations, 1,742 seatbelt violations, and 249 Move Over Law tickets.

In the Lower Hudson Valley, which includes Rockland County, Troop F issued 896 tickets, including 242 speeding violations, 49 distracted driving tickets, 115 seatbelt and child restraint violations, and 14 Move Over Law citations. Troop F also recorded 37 DWI arrests and 82 penal law arrests during the campaign.

On the New York State Thruway, patrolled by Troop T, troopers issued 1,681 tickets, including 578 speeding violations, 53 distracted driving citations, 308 seatbelt and child restraint violations, and 56 Move Over Law tickets. Troop T also made 29 DWI arrests and 34 penal law arrests.

State Police noted that during last year’s Memorial Day Weekend enforcement campaign, troopers issued 12,062 tickets and made 245 DWI arrests statewide.

Officials continue to remind motorists to drive responsibly, avoid distractions, obey speed limits, and never drive while impaired.

Rockland County District Attorney Thomas E. Walsh II and Director of Programs Lisa Foglia hosted the inaugural Excellence in Resilience Awards on May 29 at the Crestview Conference Center, recognizing members of law enforcement whose dedication, leadership, and commitment to serving others embody the power of resilience.

The event, themed “Resilience as a Revolution,” focused on the importance of wellness and support in trauma-exposed professions, emphasizing how prosecutors, police officers, and public servants can continue serving their communities with compassion, integrity, and dignity by prioritizing resilience and mental well-being.

Attendees also heard inspiring keynote presentations from Robert Czepiel Jr. and NYPD Detective Ivan Marcano, who shared personal insights on the importance of strong support systems for those working on the front lines of public safety and justice.

The Excellence in Resilience Awards were presented to Sgt. Christopher Bax of the Clarkstown Police Department, Sgt. Andres Sanchez of the Ramapo Police Department, and Police Officer Luis Maldonado of the Ramapo Police Department.

Honorable Mentions were awarded to Detective Valerie Mendez of the Ramapo Police Department, Detective Andre Riobe of the Spring Valley Police Department, and Sgt. Christian Mendez of the Haverstraw Town Police Department.

The Rockland County District Attorney’s Office also thanked its law enforcement partners, county agencies, and community organizations for their continued collaboration and commitment to serving the residents of Rockland County.

The Haverstraw Police Department is mourning the loss of retired Detective Sergeant Gary Meyer, a respected law enforcement veteran who dedicated many years of service to the Town of Haverstraw and its residents.

In a statement, the department expressed its regret at announcing Detective Sergeant Meyer’s passing and extended its deepest condolences to his family, friends, and former colleagues. Throughout his career, Meyer proudly served the community and earned the respect of those who worked alongside him.

The Haverstraw Police Department asked the community to keep Detective Sergeant Meyer’s family and loved ones in their thoughts and prayers during this difficult time.

A serious single-vehicle rollover crash occurred Friday at approximately 1:40 p.m. at the intersection of Hungry Hollow Road and Hillary Court in Chestnut Ridge.

The vehicle overturned, trapping a father and son inside. Hatzoloh EMS, Chaverim of Rockland, Monsey Fire Department, and Ramapo Police responded to the scene and worked together to safely extricate the occupants from the wreckage.

Both victims sustained injuries and were transported to Westchester Medical Center for treatment.

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Additional details have been released by the Spring Valley Police Department regarding the stabbing incident on Gesner Drive that Monsey Scoop reported as it unfolded Tuesday night.

As Monsey Scoop previously reported in its initial coverage, officers responded to the scene after reports of a stabbing and quickly took a suspect into custody following a brief foot pursuit.

According to police, officers on patrol were flagged down at approximately 10:28 p.m. near the Gesner Drive apartment complex regarding a reported stabbing. Officers quickly encountered the suspect, identified as 31-year-old Malik Baptiste of Spring Valley, who allegedly fled on foot before being apprehended following a brief pursuit.

The investigation determined that Baptiste unlawfully entered a residence at 18 Gesner Drive and allegedly stabbed a male guest inside the home while a child was present. Police say several items inside the residence were also damaged during the incident.

The victim reportedly refused to cooperate with investigators.

Baptiste has been charged with multiple offenses, including Burglary in the First Degree, Burglary in the Second Degree, Criminal Possession of a Weapon in the Third Degree, Criminal Mischief in the Third Degree, Endangering the Welfare of a Child, Obstructing Governmental Administration, and Resisting Arrest.

He was arraigned in Spring Valley Justice Court and remanded to the Rockland County Jail after bail was set at $50,000 cash, $75,000 bond, or a $100,000 partially secured bond.

Anyone with information related to the incident is urged to contact the Spring Valley Police Department at 845-356-7400 or email [email protected].

The Eruv of Monsey released its weekly inspection report ahead of Shabbos Parshas Naso, with officials reporting that all sections of the Eruv are kosher following repairs completed this week.

Several maintenance issues were identified and addressed across the Eruv system. In Suffern, crews removed branches that were resting on the Eruv string along Campbell Avenue.

In the Airmont Eruv, two repairs were completed. On Hampshire Hill Road, a newly installed utility pole eliminated the need for a previous string connection after the utility company placed the wire directly atop the new pole. Along West Saddle River Road, a wire that had become tied into other cables was replaced with a new straight wire.

The Monsey Rambam Eruv (Sh’lav 1) required repairs at a construction site on Homestead Lane, where a tree pushed down a corner section of fencing. In the Monsey Rambam (Sh’lav 2), crews corrected an Eruv string crossing between Highview Road and Silverwood Circle that had become tangled in other wires.

The most significant repairs this week took place in New City. Along North Little Tor Road, utility company crews replaced a utility pole Thursday afternoon, causing an Eruv string to come down. After the utility work was completed, Eruv crews immediately installed a new wire and restored the boundary. At a nearby location on the same roadway, a PVC lechi that was no longer properly aligned beneath the wire was replaced with two new one-inch PVC pipes.

In Haverstraw, crews trimmed branches near the Eruv string at the intersection of South Pascack Road and Scotland Hill Road.

All other sections — including Good Samaritan Hospital (Sh’lav 5 Rambam), Chestnut Ridge, Pearl River, Montebello, Spring Valley, Nanuet, Wesley Hills, New Hempstead, and Hillcrest — were reported to be in good standing following inspections.

Eruv officials highlighted what they described as a remarkable instance of siyata d’Shmaya this week. After the New City Eruv inspection was completed Thursday morning and confirmed to be kosher, one of the organization’s drivers later noticed a utility company replacing a pole on the same street. Recognizing that the work had compromised part of the Eruv line, a repair team was immediately dispatched to reinstall the wire and restore the boundary before Shabbos. Officials said the quick response ensured the integrity of the Eruv was maintained without interruption.

Assemblyman Aron Wieder recently toured the VISIONS Center on Blindness campus in New Hempstead at the invitation of the organization.

He was welcomed by VISIONS’ new CEO, Molly E. Eagan, along with her staff. During the tour of the 37.5-acre residential rehabilitation facility, Wieder viewed the recent expansions and rehabilitation work that has already been completed, along with plans to further expand capacity and serve more individuals in need.

Wieder expressed strong support for the organization’s mission and pledged to advocate for the resources it needs.

“It was truly inspiring to tour the VISIONS campus and witness the outstanding work being done to empower individuals who are blind or visually impaired,” said Assemblymember Aron Wieder. “I am committed to advocating for the resources this vital organization needs to continue its important mission.”

Founded in 1926, VISIONS provides essential rehabilitation and support services to individuals across New York City, Long Island, Westchester, the Hudson Valley, and beyond.

A Spring Valley man has been arrested following a stabbing that left a woman seriously injured Wednesday morning.

According to the Spring Valley Police Department, officers responded at approximately 10:30 a.m. on May 28 to the area of 53 Sneden Place West following reports of a stabbing. Upon arrival, officers discovered a woman suffering from a stab wound to her right eye that required immediate medical attention.

Spring Hill EMS responded to the scene and transported the victim to Westchester Medical Center for treatment.

Police quickly broadcast a description of the suspect, and shortly thereafter an alert patrol officer located a man matching the description and safely took him into custody without incident.

The suspect, identified as 40-year-old Oniel James of Spring Valley, was charged with Assault with Intent to Cause Serious Injury (Weapon), a B-1 Felony; Assault in the Second Degree, a D-2 Felony; and Criminal Possession of a Weapon, an A Misdemeanor.

James was arraigned before Judge Tenemil and remanded to the Rockland County Jail pending further court proceedings.

The investigation remains ongoing. Anyone with information related to the incident is urged to contact the Spring Valley Police Department at (845) 356-7400 or email [email protected].

Motorists traveling through the intersection of Cherry Lane and Route 59 in Airmont may soon notice improved traffic flow following the implementation of a temporary repair to address ongoing issues with the traffic signal’s turn sensors.

For an extended period, faulty roadway loop sensors have caused problems with the signal system, leading to delays and frustration for drivers attempting to navigate the busy intersection.

Sources tell Monsey Scoop that the New York State Department of Transportation is expected to replace the damaged sensors with a permanent solution in the coming weeks. In the meantime, crews are implementing a temporary fix designed to improve operations until the full repair can be completed.

The temporary repair comes following the efforts of Airmont Deputy Mayor Shimon Moses, community activist Yehuda Zorger, Assemblyman Aron Wieder, and Congressman Mike Lawler’s Deputy Chief of Staff Rafi Silberberg, who worked together to bring attention to the issue and help expedite a solution.

Residents and commuters are hopeful the temporary improvements will ease traffic congestion while they await the permanent replacement of the faulty sensors.

Spring Valley Police have arrested two village residents in connection with a vehicle larceny investigation that began after a car break-in on East Route 59.

Police say officers responded to the parking lot of 175 East Route 59 on May 19 after receiving a report that a vehicle’s driver-side window had been smashed and a wallet containing cash and credit cards had been stolen.

Investigators later determined that the stolen credit cards had been used at the Palisades Center Mall. Following an extensive investigation, detectives arrested 29-year-old Sydeesa Sisco and 33-year-old Terrence Rabel, both of Spring Valley, on May 26.

Both defendants were charged with Criminal Mischief in the Third Degree, Grand Larceny in the Fourth Degree, Criminal Possession of Stolen Property in the Fourth Degree, and Petit Larceny.

Police said Rabel also faces charges related to two additional vehicle larceny investigations, while Sisco was charged in connection with one additional vehicle larceny case.

Both were arraigned before Judge Sweet and remanded to the Rockland County Jail.

The Spring Valley Police Department is requesting that anyone with information regarding the incident contact investigators at 845-356-7400 or email [email protected].

Chaverim of Rockland’s annual Kids Safety Day & Bike Registration Fun Fair will take place on Sunday, June 7th at Viola Park (Manny Welder Fields).

The event will feature free helmet giveaways, bike and scooter registration, safety demonstrations, balloon rides, snacks, ices, drinks, and more.

Rain date: June 14th. More details to follow.

Rockland County’s Accessible Fun Day 2026 marked the largest and most successful event in its three-year history, drawing more than 800 participants to the Rockland Community College Field House. The event emphasized inclusion, recreation, and accessible fun for individuals of all ability levels, bringing together families, schools, day programs, and community organizations from throughout Rockland County.

The event, officially sponsored by the Rockland County Office for People with Disabilities, was developed with significant involvement from Senator Bill Weber’s office. As Ranking Member of the Senate Disabilities Committee, Senator Weber became involved in 2023, early in the planning process, following discussions about creating a countywide event focused on inclusion, accessibility, and activities for individuals of all ability levels.

What began as a promising concept with modest attendance in 2024 has grown into Rockland County’s annual premier inclusive community event. Attendance more than doubled this year, rising from approximately 300 attendees in 2025 to over 800 participants in 2026, with participation from schools, day programs, and numerous community organizations.

Senator Weber’s office operated the event’s largest activity area, an 80-by-80-foot section featuring inclusive games and activities designed to accommodate participants of all ability levels. Activities offered by the Senator included Bill Pong, cornhole, ladder ball, washer toss, giant Jenga, giant Connect Four, putterball, giant Mad Libs, and championship-style photo stations with trophies.

One of the most popular attractions, Bill Pong, was specially adapted with multiple sized containers and ball sizes to ensure accessibility for participants with varying physical abilities. The concept originated in the event’s first year. When Senator Weber’s Office asked Rockland Green to donate 14 round recycling bins so they could paint them to resemble Red Solo Cups, Rockland Green not only generously donated the bins they also painted them for the event. Bill Pong has become a tradition at Rockland County’s YouthFest, and Jawonio’s Brick-A-Palooza.

Planning for this year’s event began in January and involved more than ten planning meetings. Senator Weber’s staff played a significant role in organizing logistics, designing vendor layouts, assisting with setup, and facilitating activities throughout the day. More than 40 vendors participated, with food trucks, sensory rooms, entertainment, and adaptive recreational opportunities available throughout the venue.

Senator Weber’s entire district office staff were eager to participate onsite, assisting with setup, logistics, and activities throughout the highly anticipated event. Office phones continued to be answered remotely to ensure constituent services remained uninterrupted.

“This event shows individuals of all abilities that there is a place for everyone to participate, have fun, and feel included,” Senator Weber said.

“Watching the event grow from an idea into something that impacts hundreds of families and organizations across Rockland County has been incredibly meaningful, not only for me, but for my entire office as well.”