The Village of Nyack announced changes to its trash and brush collection schedule Monday as Department of Public Works crews deal with limited staffing while responding to a sinkhole at the DPW facility.

According to the village, DPW crews are focusing Monday’s trash collection on the north side of Main Street. Crews are expected to return Tuesday to complete trash collection on the south side of Main Street.

Brush bags, meanwhile, are scheduled to be collected on Wednesday.

The temporary changes come as several DPW employees are working to address the sinkhole at the department’s facility, leaving the department short-staffed for regular collection operations.

Village officials thanked residents for their patience and cooperation as crews work to maintain regular services while addressing the emergency repair.

With students across Rockland County heading back to the classroom, Rockland County Fire and Emergency Services is reminding parents, students, and motorists to take extra precautions as the new school year gets underway.

The department urged children to stop, look, and listen before crossing streets and to remain alert and avoid distractions while walking to and from school. Students traveling by vehicle or school bus are also being reminded to buckle up.

Motorists are being asked to slow down in school zones and remain especially alert for children who may be entering or crossing the roadway.

Officials also encouraged parents to allow additional travel time during the first few weeks of school as traffic patterns adjust to the return of school buses and increased morning and afternoon traffic.

Beyond roadway safety, the department encouraged students to begin the year by being kind and respectful to others, arriving prepared, doing their best, and asking for help when needed.

photos: MB"D

Yisroel R.

Monsey will begin the week with a pleasant Monday before a stretch of unsettled weather arrives, with showers and thunderstorms possible from Tuesday through Thursday as September gets underway.

Monday will be partly cloudy and comfortable, with a high near 81 degrees and a low of 67 degrees.

Tuesday will bring morning showers followed by scattered thunderstorms during the afternoon, with some storms potentially producing strong, gusty winds. The high will reach around 77 degrees, with a low of 68 degrees.

Wednesday will remain unsettled with scattered showers and thunderstorms, along with the potential for strong, gusty winds. Temperatures will reach around 81 degrees, with a low of 68 degrees.

Thursday will feature a mix of clouds and sunshine with scattered thunderstorms possible throughout the day. The high will reach around 81 degrees, with a low of 64 degrees, bringing a cooler end to an otherwise unsettled start to September.

Q: What is prediabetes, and can it be prevented or reversed? 

A: Prediabetes is a common health condition that affects millions of adults, often without them realizing it. It occurs when blood sugar levels are higher than normal but not yet high enough to be diagnosed as type 2 diabetes. While prediabetes is a warning sign, the good news is that it can often be prevented from progressing and, in many cases, reversed through healthy lifestyle changes. 

One of the challenges with prediabetes is that it usually causes no symptoms. Many people feel completely healthy and only discover they have prediabetes during routine blood work. This is why regular checkups and recommended screenings are so important. 

Several factors can increase the risk of developing prediabetes, including being overweight, having a family history of diabetes, being physically inactive, having high blood pressure or high cholesterol, or being over the age of 45. However, prediabetes can occur in adults of any age. 

When blood sugar levels remain elevated over time, the body may become less responsive to insulin, a hormone that helps move sugar from the bloodstream into cells for energy. If left untreated, prediabetes can progress to type 2 diabetes, which increases the risk of heart disease, stroke, kidney disease, vision problems, and nerve damage. 

The encouraging news is that lifestyle changes can make a significant difference. Research has shown that losing even a modest amount of weight and increasing physical activity can greatly reduce the risk of developing type 2 diabetes. 

Here are some important steps that can help prevent or reverse prediabetes: 

Maintain a Healthy Weight

 Even a weight loss of 5 to 10 percent of your body weight can improve blood sugar control and reduce diabetes risk. 

Be Physically Active

 Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise each week, such as brisk walking, cycling, swimming, or other activities you enjoy. Regular activity helps the body use insulin more effectively. 

Choose Healthier Foods

 Focus on fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats. Limiting sugary beverages, processed foods, and excessive portions can help maintain healthy blood sugar levels. 

Get Regular Sleep

 Poor sleep can affect how the body regulates blood sugar. Most adults should aim for seven to nine hours of quality sleep each night. 

Manage Stress

 Chronic stress can contribute to unhealthy habits and may affect blood sugar levels. Finding healthy ways to manage stress, such as exercise, relaxation techniques, or hobbies, can be beneficial. 

Keep Up With Regular Medical Care

 Routine screenings and follow-up visits allow your healthcare provider to monitor your progress and identify any changes early. 

Some individuals may benefit from medication in addition to lifestyle changes, especially if they are at high risk of developing diabetes. Your healthcare provider can help determine the best approach for your individual situation. 

Bottom line: Prediabetes is a warning sign that blood sugar levels are higher than they should be, but it does not mean diabetes is inevitable. With healthy lifestyle changes, many people can prevent or delay type 2 diabetes and, in some cases, return their blood sugar levels to a normal range. Early detection and action are key to protecting your long-term health. 

📍 Temima Levine, FNP

Lev Health

 📞 Call today to schedule your annual wellness visit!

Yisroel R.

A serious motorcycle crash Motzei Shabbos in Monsey sent three people to the hospital, including two in critical condition, after a motorcycle and a vehicle collided at the intersection of College Road and Dolson Road.

The impact left three people injured, including two heimishe riders on the motorcycle and the driver of the other vehicle.

The crash brought Hatzoloh, Ramapo Police, and Chaverim rushing to the intersection as emergency crews worked to care for the injured and secure the scene.

Hatzoloh members treated the victims at the scene before transporting them to the hospital for further treatment.

The patients were taken to Westchester Medical Center, where the two motorcycle riders were listed in critical condition.

The patients have since regained consciousness as they continue recovering from their injuries.

Ramapo Police remained on the scene following the accident as the circumstances surrounding the collision are being investigated.

President Donald Trump has invited a group of prominent Rabbonim from New York for a historic meeting set to take place on Thursday, September 3, at the White House, where they are expected to discuss important issues facing the Jewish community across the United States.

Official White House invitations were presented to the Admorim of Satmar, Bobov, Viznitz-Monsey, and Skver, along with other prominent leaders.

The Satmar Rebbe addressed the invitation while conducting the Tish with the Bochurim in Kiryas Joel on Friday night, expressing his desire to attend the meeting and discuss important issues facing the Jewish community.

Photo: Shutterstock

Nyack officials and community leaders gathered on Thursday for a ribbon-cutting ceremony marking the completion of the newly renovated shoreline pathway at Memorial Park.

The ceremony officially celebrated the completion of the waterfront improvement project, which was previously reported as work on the pathway was wrapping up earlier this summer.

Nyack Mayor Joe Rand thanked those who attended the official opening and highlighted the funding that helped make the project possible. “This renovation would not have been possible had it not been for the support of Governor Hochul through the Local Waterfront Revitalization Grant of over $400,000,” Rand said.

The mayor noted that the funding is part of approximately $7.5 million in federal and state grants secured for Nyack in recent years. “I’m grateful to her and to everyone who worked so hard to make this beautiful pathway a reality,” Rand said.

Rand added that village officials plan to continue pursuing outside funding for future improvements, saying he is “excited to continue to search for creative funding solutions to improve our village and Rockland County.”

The upgraded pathway provides improved accessibility and a more user-friendly route along Memorial Park’s scenic Hudson River shoreline, giving residents and visitors greater access to one of the village’s most popular waterfront areas.

With the work now completed, the renovated pathway is fully open for residents and visitors, providing an enhanced setting for waterfront recreation, community gatherings, and events at Memorial Park.

As the nation approaches the 25th anniversary of the September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks, communities across Rockland County are preparing to once again come together to remember the lives lost on one of the darkest days in American history.

Multiple villages and towns across the county are planning public remembrance ceremonies and gatherings around Friday, September 11, giving residents an opportunity to honor the victims, recognize the heroism of first responders, and reflect on the events that forever changed the nation.

This year marks a quarter-century since the attacks on the World Trade Center, Pentagon and United Airlines Flight 93, and communities across the country are preparing special commemorations to ensure that the victims and heroes of that day continue to be remembered by a new generation.

For Rockland County, where many residents have deep personal connections to September 11 and its aftermath, the upcoming anniversary will once again be marked locally with moments of remembrance, reflection and gratitude.

photo: Shutterstock

Yisroel R.

Ramapo Police Operations Captain Kevin Lee was honored Friday afternoon with a walkout ceremony marking the conclusion of his more than 34-year career with the Ramapo Police Department.

Colleagues, department members, and elected officials gathered to recognize Lee as he officially wrapped up decades of service, offering a final salute to a career that spanned numerous roles and major responsibilities within the department.

As previously reported by Rockland Daily, Lee began his law enforcement career after graduating from the Rockland County Police Academy in 1992 and went on to serve in patrol, Traffic Safety, supervisory positions, and department leadership.

Amid his career, Lee rose through the ranks from Sergeant to Lieutenant and later served as Administrative Captain before also becoming Operations Captain, a role that placed him among the department’s senior leadership.

Lee also played a longstanding role as the department’s Accreditation Program Manager, helping oversee the standards and procedures tied to the Ramapo Police Department’s accreditation efforts.

Friday’s walkout ceremony served as a final department tribute to Lee’s years of service, giving fellow officers and colleagues an opportunity to recognize the experience, leadership, and institutional knowledge he brought to Ramapo Police over more than three decades.

Police Chief Daniel Hyman and Town Supervisor Michael Specht praised Captain Lee for his professionalism, dedication, and leadership, highlighting the impact he made throughout his long career with the department.

Among the many speeches and awards presented at the ceremony, askan Moshe Kaff presented Captain Lee with a plaque on behalf of the New Square community, thanking him for his many years of devoted service to the community throughout his career with the Ramapo Police Department.

With Friday’s ceremony, Lee’s 34-year chapter with Ramapo Police formally came to a close, leaving behind a career that saw him serve the department and the wider Ramapo community in a wide range of roles with tremendous commitment and dedication.

YSR.

According to trusted sources, Walmart has recently purchased the shopping center property surrounding its Route 59 store in Airmont, giving the retail giant ownership of the property that is home to a number of additional stores and businesses.

The shopping center, located at 250 Route 59, has long been anchored by Walmart and includes a mix of stores, restaurants and other businesses. Current tenants include HIVE, Le Brick, Citi Bank and several additional establishments operating along the busy Route 59 shopping stretch. 

The purchase marks a significant change for the property, with Walmart now becoming not only the center’s largest tenants but the owner of the surrounding shopping center as well. It was not immediately clear what plans, if any, Walmart has for the property following the purchase.

The future of some businesses currently operating in the center could therefore depend on the new ownership and their individual lease agreements. At this point, no widespread changes or closures have been announced.

HIVE Discount, however, is expected to remain at the location for years to come, with reports of the supermarket locking in a long-term lease in place, securing its location for the many years to come.

A grand new chapter is unfolding for the Skverer Chassidus, with plans officially announced today for a magnificent new building that will house a massive Heichel HaTorah together with a grand Tish Shteeb, creating two major new centers of Torah and Chassidic life in the heart of New Square.

The first floor of the new building will feature an expansive Heichel HaTorah, providing a large and dedicated setting for learning throughout the day. Rising above it will be the magnificent new Tish Shteeb, designed to accommodate the major tishen, simchas, and gatherings of the Skverer court for generations to come.

A major fundraising campaign to support the ambitious building project is set to launch in the coming days.

The site has been closed for the past three weeks after a section of the ceiling in the historic old Beis Medrash suddenly collapsed. In what community members are calling an absolute miracle, no one was injured during the collapse. Following the incident, structural engineers and safety experts thoroughly evaluated the building's integrity. For safety reasons, the historic structure was immediately closed, with all regular minyanim, shiurim, and services relocated to the nearby new, gigantic main Shul. 

The old Beis Medrash building will be demolished to make way for the grand new project. The new Heichel HaTorah and Tish Shteeb are expected to become central pillars of daily life in the Skverer court, providing expansive new space for continuous Torah learning, as well as for the major tishen and gatherings of the growing Chassidus.

As per the current plans, the project is expected to be completed in time for Rosh Hashana 5787.

Yisroel R.

Monsey is in for a beautiful late-summer weekend, with plenty of sunshine, comfortable temperatures, and mostly dry conditions from Friday through Sunday.

Friday will feature partly sunny skies with a high near 82 degrees and a low of 59 degrees. The cooler nighttime temperatures will give the day a noticeably comfortable Fall season feel.

Shabbos will be mostly sunny with a high around 79 degrees and a low of 59 degrees, continuing the pleasant stretch of weather.

Sunday will turn a little warmer while remaining mostly sunny, with a high near 84 degrees and a low of 68 degrees. Overall, the weekend will stay dry and comfortable for this time of year.

Following strong turnout at recent community meet-and-greets in Pomona and Montebello, candidate for State Senate Joe Rand will continue his grassroots outreach tomorrow night with a community Meet & Greet in Chestnut Ridge.

The event will be held at the Stesel Residence, 13 Cannan Road, Monsey, NY. Residents will have the opportunity to meet Rand, ask questions and discuss the issues affecting their families and community.

The gathering is part of Rand's ongoing series of neighborhood events designed to bring the campaign directly to residents and provide an opportunity for open, personal conversations about the future of Rockland County.

The upcoming Chestnut Ridge event follows well-attended gatherings in Pomona and Montebello, where residents engaged Rand on issues including affordability, public safety, education, child care and quality of life.

With additional community events planned across the district, Rand's campaign continues its focus on listening to residents and bringing his vision for Rockland County directly to local communities.

SPRING VALLEY — Assemblyman Aron Wieder on Wednesday presented New York State Assembly Certificates of Merit to the teams that completed reconstruction of the Route 59 bridge over South Pascack Road more than a month ahead of schedule.

The bridge reopened Monday, Aug. 25, restoring access to a busy corridor that had been closed since June 3. Originally scheduled for completion on Oct. 3, the work finished early as part of a $16.4 million New York State Department of Transportation program to rehabilitate four key bridges in the lower Hudson Valley.

At the site Wednesday, Wieder awarded the certificates to Harrison & Burrows Bridge Constructors, Inc., KS Engineers, P.C., Boris Vays, Project Manager at KS Engineers, P.C., and Linu Abraham, Engineer with the New York State Department of Transportation.

“This early completion is a rare accomplishment for a project of this scale,” Wieder said, noting the bridge is now “open for business” and residents can once again travel the route.

The Assemblyman said his office worked closely with NYSDOT and other stakeholders throughout the closure to ease the impact on residents and local businesses and to help advance the project as quickly as possible. He also thanked elected officials from the Village of Spring Valley for maintaining regular contact with project managers and keeping the community informed.

The closure had shut down a 0.1-mile segment of Route 59 from New Clarkstown Road, detouring traffic via Forman Drive and South Pascack Road. Wieder thanked Harrison & Burrows, KS Engineers and NYSDOT for delivering a safer crossing for the Spring Valley community and all of Rockland ahead of schedule.

Yisroel R.

The Village of Kaser will significantly increase security and patrols throughout this coming Shabbos, as a large number of local men are expected to be out of the country for the historic Vizhnitz Monsey nesiyah to Eretz Yisroel.

With many households expected to have family members away, the village has arranged for additional patrols together with the Ramapo Police Department and Chaverim of Rockland. The expanded security presence will begin Thursday morning, August 27, and remain in place through Tuesday morning, September 1.

The added patrols are intended to provide a stronger security presence throughout the village during a weekend when many homes will have fewer family members present than usual.

In addition to the increased security, the village is also expanding its regular Shabbos assistance services for residents who may need help with certain practical matters during Shabbos.

The service will be available Friday night from the beginning of Shabbos until 2:00 a.m., and again on Shabbos day from 10:00 a.m. until 2:00 p.m., with village personnel making rounds throughout Kaser.

Residents who know ahead of time that they may need assistance are being encouraged to make use of the village’s designated card and patrol-box system. Requests can be placed at several locations around the village so they can be located when personnel make their rounds.

The designated locations include 22 Phyllis Terrace, the corner of Calvert Drive and School Terrace, the corner of Ashel Lane and Rita Avenue, in front of 2 Elyon Road, Route 306 corner Phyllis Terrace, and at 2 Phyllis Terrace.

The expanded security and Shabbos assistance are being put in place for the duration of the Vizhnitz Monsey trip, giving families remaining in Kaser both an increased patrol presence and additional access to the village’s regular Shabbos support services when families have less in-house assistance.

Yisroel R.

A flood-prone stretch of Ackertown Road in Chestnut Ridge is finally getting a drainage upgrade, with crews now installing new storm drains and piping along the roadway.

For years, part of Ackertown Road had no storm drains at all, leaving heavy rain with nowhere to properly drain and repeatedly causing water to collect and flood the roadway.

The Town of Ramapo Highway Department has now stepped in, sending crews to install a new drainage system designed to carry stormwater away from the road and reduce the recurring flooding problem.

Work is currently underway, with the new drains and piping being installed along the affected stretch. Once completed, the project is expected to give the roadway far better protection during periods of heavy rain.

Village officials expressed their appreciation to the Town of Ramapo Highway Department and its crews for taking on the project, while thanking the village engineering team for their work in moving the drainage improvements forward.

Yisroel R.

Drivers traveling through Nanuet continue to face delays and disruptions along Route 304 as the long-running bridge replacement project over Interstate 287 stretches on, drawing growing frustration from motorists and local residents.

The New York State Department of Transportation now says work on the southbound side of the bridge, along with the Palisades Interstate Parkway Exit 9W ramp, is expected to be completed this fall. Once that portion is finished, crews are expected to shift their focus to the northbound side of Route 304.

Assemblyman Patrick Carroll said he continues to hear complaints from residents frustrated by how long the project has taken and the impact it has had on everyday travel. Carroll said drivers want more transparency and faster progress from the DOT, noting that the work has made even routine trips along Route 304 more difficult.

The Palisades Interstate Parkway exit ramp was forced to close again earlier this year after crews discovered that the bridge required more repair work than originally anticipated. State Senator Bill Weber said that unexpected work appears to have contributed to the delays, adding that he remains in contact with the DOT as the project moves forward.

“Unfortunately, this 304 bridge project is taking much too long to finish, but there is an end in sight. We will keep monitoring it,” Weber said.

The DOT said any additional ramp closures will be evaluated as construction progresses and that it is working with contractors to complete the project as quickly and smoothly as possible. For drivers who rely on Route 304, however, the project remains an ongoing headache.

Congressman Mike Lawler also called on the state to bring the same urgency to the Route 304 project that it showed in completing the Route 59 bridge over South Pascack Road in Spring Valley. Lawler noted that the Route 59 bridge reopened weeks ahead of schedule after months of major traffic disruptions, saying the long-running Route 304 work and continued Route 9W ramp closure should now be completed with the same sense of urgency.

Despite the unrelenting rain, Rabbanim, askanim, and supporters gathered last Thursday, August 20, at Har Shalom Cemetery in Monsey to mark the dedication of Knafayim’s newly acquired chelka.

Knafayim walks alongside families facing the devastation of pregnancy loss, stepping into some of the most painful and overwhelming moments a family can face. Its dedicated team and volunteers walk alongside them through the days that follow, offering comfort, clarity and support through some of their darkest hours. The new chelka allows Knafayim to be there for families through one of the most sacred and difficult moments following a loss: ensuring these precious neshamos a dignified resting place, while giving their families the comfort and peace of mind of knowing that everything was handled with dignity and care. 

Event chairman Harav Shmuel Yitzchok Pfefferkorn, shlit"a, menahel of Yeshivas Karlin-Stolin in Lakewood, opened the event by comparing Knafayim’s volunteers to a bird that flies straight into a storm. This, he said, is the koach of Knafayim: when a family is caught in a  storm, Knafayim  flies  toward them.

R’ Meir Shalom Gertner, director of Har Shalom, expanded on that message, speaking of Knafayim’s tov v’hameitiv, giving these neshamos tehoros the kavod of a proper burial. Harav Tzvi Hirsch Rabinowitz, shlit"a, AB”D Kochvei Yitzchok Bobov Monsey, described this chesed as twofold: yekara d’shachvei for the neshamos, and yekara d’chayei for the families who must carry on without them. The neshamos, he added, will be melitzei yosher for all who support this sacred work.

Harav Pfefferkorn expressed heartfelt hakaras hatov to those who make Knafayim’s work possible, specifically the attending doctors, Dr. David Lubel, Dr. Yaakov Abdehlik, and the many other medical professionals whose dedication to Knafayim has touched countless families. 

Next Rabbi Benzion Klatzko, shlit"a, shared through tears his own firsthand experience with pregnancy loss. He spoke of the importance of having a place to mourn, and of the responsibility we carry as a community never to remain indifferent to a Jewish family's suffering.  

Harav Zusha Ausch, shlit"a, Rav of Knafayim, explained the meaning behind the organization’s name, citing a Midrash about a broken bird finding comfort in its beautiful wings. In moments of deep brokenness, he said, Knafayim’s volunteers are those wings. We cannot always change what has happened. But we can always make sure a family isn’t left to carry it alone.

The rain continued to fall as the gathering came to a close with a moving Kel Malei Rachamim for the nefulim a’h, led by a renowned chazan R’ Yechezkel Brecher. But the message of the evening was unmistakable; even in the moments that cannot be changed, there is still chesed to be done, kavod to be given, and a family that should never have to stand alone. 

The maamad concluded with a heartfelt tefillah that the new chelka should see as little use as possible, and that we should soon merit the day when there will be no more pain or sorrow with the coming of Moshiach and techiyas hameisim, bimherah beyameinu, amen. 

A new chapter is underway for the Banya kehillah on Stonehouse Drive, as the old shul building has been demolished to make way for the construction of a new and expanded home for the kehillah.

The demolition marks the beginning of the long-awaited construction project, which will replace the longtime structure with a new shul designed to better accommodate the needs of the growing kehillah.

In the meantime, a temporary location has been set up for the mispallelim, where the kehillah will continue its regular tefillos and activities throughout the construction period.

Yisroel R.

What began as a long-awaited effort to bring passport services closer to the Monsey families, has now crossed a major milestone, with the Village of Kaser Passport Application Center processing its 9,000th application since opening its doors in 2024.

The facility was created after years of difficulty securing convenient passport appointments in the Monsey area, with residents often forced to rely on limited post office availability or travel to the Rockland County Clerk’s Office in New City. Since opening, the Kaser location has quickly become a heavily used option for residents seeking to apply for passports closer to home.

A major part of the story behind the facility was the involvement of Congressman Mike Lawler. Efforts had been made for many years to establish a local passport office for the growing needs of the community, but repeated requests were turned down by the U.S. Department of State.

That changed after Congressman Lawler became heavily involved in the effort, working to push the request forward and help secure approval for a passport acceptance facility in Kaser. The office ultimately opened its doors in February 2024, ending years in which local residents often struggled to find nearby accommodating appointments.

As previously reported by Rockland Daily, specially trained village employees began processing passport applications following the facility’s opening. By September 2025, the office had already crossed the 5,000-application mark, and the latest milestone means another roughly 4,000 applications have been processed in less than a year since then.

The 9,000th application underscores just how heavily the service has been used since its launch, while also marking another milestone in an effort Lawler helped bring across the finish line after years of unsuccessful attempts to establish a convenient local passport facility for the local community.

The Village of Kaser expressed its appreciation to Congressman Mike Lawler and his staff, as this milestone was only achievable through his efforts, thanking his office for their continued assistance, cooperation, and support throughout the entire process.

Yisroel R.

Rockland County is expected to see a wet and stormy Thursday, with periods of heavy rain and thunderstorms bringing the potential for flooding across parts of the region.

Rain is expected to develop during the day and become more widespread as Thursday progresses, with some storms capable of producing heavy downpours. The strongest rain could fall quickly enough to overwhelm drainage systems and cause flooding in low-lying and poor-drainage locations.

The main concern will be the intensity of the rainfall, particularly during heavier thunderstorms. Even areas that do not see prolonged rain could experience problems if a strong storm drops a large amount of water in a short period of time.

The unsettled weather is expected to continue into Thursday night, with additional showers and thunderstorms possible before conditions gradually begin improving.

Drivers across Rockland County should avoid unnecessary travel, and be prepared for reduced visibility, ponding on roadways and potentially difficult travel during the heaviest periods of rain, especially in locations that are known to flood during strong storms.

Yisroel R.

This week’s Dee Voch brings readers another packed issue filled with major events from across the heimishe world, fascinating personalities, dramatic history, business, important insight, and plenty for the entire family.

In Dee Voch, readers will find extensive coverage from the gathering of leading Admorim and Rabbanim at the chanukas habayis for the massive new offices of Ezra V’Yyiutz in Yerushalayim, established to strengthen and preserve Chareidi Yiddishkeit amid the ongoing gezeiras giyus bnei hayeshivos.

The issue also features the Sanz-Klausenburg Rebbe during his visit to Eretz Yisrael, the Pidyon Haben for a great-grandchild of the Belzer Rebbe, the Satmar Rebbe visiting Machanos Rav Tov of Satmar, the Bar Mitzvah of a grandson of the Rachmastrivka Rebbe, and coverage marking the yahrtzeit of the Yeshuos Yaakov of Skulen zt”l.

This week’s Shrift, “The Scam Hunter,” features a dramatic conversation with energetic askan R’ Itche Jialowski, who heads one of the most popular heimishe news lines in Eretz Yisrael. He takes readers behind the scenes of his intense operations against the countless scammers operating across the country, shares critical advice on how people can protect themselves from fraud, and reveals some of the secrets behind the popular news line.

Also in Shrift, “The Forgotten Hijacking: Chaos in the Air” revisits a terrifying incident nine months before the 9/11 attacks, when a man stormed the cockpit of a British Airways flight traveling from London to Nairobi, Kenya, attacked the lone pilot inside, seized the flight controls, and sent the aircraft carrying nearly 400 people into a frightening descent. The feature looks back at the largely forgotten incident that chillingly foreshadowed the dangers the world would later witness on 9/11.

In Business Shrift, “Daas Baal Habayis,” R’ Hershel Mendelson tells the nearly 60-year story of Mendelsohn’s Pizza, which has been serving the same familiar foods to customers for three generations.

This week’s Fink, “The Refrigerator Mother,” explores a disturbing chapter in the history of autism, when psychologists wrongly blamed mothers for causing autism in their children because of an alleged lack of warmth. The false theory left countless parents carrying tremendous guilt and led families toward unnecessary therapies, until researchers eventually established that autism is rooted in biological development and is not caused by flawed parenting.

And in Kinder Shrift, “The Turks in Eretz Yisrael,” young readers will get a fascinating look at the period when Eretz Yisrael was under Turkish rule, exploring an important era in the history of the land and what life was like during that time.

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

YS GOLD

Reb Shloime Friedman has been appointed as the official community liaison at Westchester Medical Center, establishing a dedicated address for members of the community who need assistance while receiving care at the hospital.

Reb Shloime has long served as an askan assisting community members at Westchester Medical Center. The official appointment follows the endorsement and advocacy of Bikur Cholim of Rockland, Hatzoloh of Rockland and other medical organizations, who worked to establish a formal liaison between the community and Westchester Medical Center.

Dr. Lubarsky, CEO of Westchester Medical Center, made the appointment, recognizing the importance of having a designated representative to facilitate communication and advocate for the needs of community members and their families—an illustration of WMC’s commitment to growing their relationship with our community.

As the official liaison, Reb Shloime will serve as a point of contact for community members who have questions or concerns during their time at Westchester Medical Center. His role will include helping patients and families navigate the hospital system, expediting appointments when possible, and communicating patient needs to the appropriate hospital personnel.

Community organizations welcomed the appointment, noting the value of strengthening communication between the community and Westchester Medical Center and ensuring that the needs of patients are properly conveyed. The community also expressed its appreciation to Dr. Lubarsky and Westchester Medical Center for their commitment to strengthening the relationship with the local community.

Despite Thursday evening’s wind and heavy rain, an impressive number of residents gathered in Pomona for the return of State Senator Bill Weber’s popular Chill With Bill series, kicking off the first of many such events planned throughout Rockland County. 

Hosted by Amir Benisti and Avi Hirsch, the informal gathering gave residents the opportunity to speak directly with Senator Weber, ask questions, raise concerns, and engage in candid conversations about the future of Rockland County and New York State.

The remarkably strong turnout indicates residents’ interest in meeting Senator Weber firsthand, showing their support, and sharing their concerns. The response demonstrated that Senator Weber has his finger on the pulse of his constituents and understands the value of bringing government and public service directly to the people. 

Rather than speeches from a distant podium, Chill With Bill is centered on accessibility, open conversation, and the opportunity to build relationships that develop when residents have direct access to the person representing them. 

“You have to dig deep into what people are concerned about, make relationships and friendships, and build trust and rapport,” Senator Weber said. “That’s what these events are about. We can talk about the important issues, or any issue someone wants to discuss, communicate with one another, and move the football forward.”

For Senator Weber, that accessibility is an essential part of representing Rockland, particularly when residents may not always agree with every position taken by their elected officials.

“You may not agree with me 100 percent of the time, but I try to build relationships with both sides to create good legislation and get things done,” Senator Weber said. “That’s the work that needs to continue.”

The wide-ranging conversation included both state and local concerns, as well as the importance of making sure residents understand what their elected representatives are doing on their behalf. During the evening, Senator Weber stressed that open communication is particularly important in an environment where political claims can easily create confusion about an elected official’s actual record.

The conversation also turned to the importance of the upcoming election and maintaining strong representation for Rockland at both the state and federal levels. Senator Weber discussed his relationship with Congressman Mike Lawler and pointed to their shared focus on accessibility, constituent service, results, and a willingness to cross party lines when it benefits the people they represent.

“Mike Lawler and I are both approachable, results-driven, and not afraid to cross party lines because we are in tune with what our constituents want,” Senator Weber said. “We care about this county, and we understand how important it is to have people representing this region who will fight for it.”

Senator Weber also thanked those who have supported his reelection campaign and noted that the campaign is entering the race in a strong financial position, having reached the maximum amount of public matching funds permitted under New York’s campaign finance system.

“We are financially set for this race and have maxed out on the matching funds allowed under the system,” Senator Weber said. “I am forever grateful for the support our campaign has received. That financial support is critical because it allows us to get our message out to voters and talk about the state and local concerns that directly affect our communities.”

The Pomona gathering is only the beginning. Additional Chill With Bill events are being planned throughout Rockland County, including stops in villages and communities across the district, giving more residents the opportunity to participate.

“It’s very important that we continue Chill With Bill throughout the district,” Senator Weber said. “We need to keep going directly to the people, listening to what they have to say, and building those relationships.”

Spring Valley Police and investigators from the New York State Liquor Authority conducted a joint enforcement operation at several bars and restaurants across Spring Valley, finding Alcoholic Beverage Control violations at each of the five establishments inspected.

The operation took place on August 21 and included inspections at El Ray Del Pollo at 80 East Route 59, Papusa Magica Restaurant & Bar at 96 East Route 59, El Rodeo Steakhouse at 180 East Route 59, El Pollo Grande Restaurant at 39 South Main Street, and Guadalajara Restaurant and Bar at 180 East Route 59.

According to Spring Valley Police, violations of the state's Alcoholic Beverage Control laws were identified at all five locations.

The most significant findings were reported at Guadalajara Restaurant and Bar, where investigators said they discovered a large number of patrons under the age of 21 who had allegedly been served and were in possession of alcoholic beverages. Several additional violations were also identified.

As a result of the findings, Guadalajara Restaurant and Bar was shut down for the evening.

The New York State Liquor Authority will handle the continued investigation into the violations.

Spring Valley Police thanked the State Liquor Authority for its assistance and partnership in the enforcement operation.

Ramapo Police Operations Captain Kevin Lee will retire at the end of August, concluding more than 34 years of service to the Town of Ramapo and the Ramapo Police Department.

Captain Lee began his career in August 1992 at the Rockland County Police Academy, where he served as class president and graduated as valedictorian. He went on to serve in nearly every area of the Ramapo Police Department, building decades of operational, administrative, and technical experience.

He began as a patrol officer before joining the Traffic Safety Unit. Lee was promoted to Sergeant in 2005 and later served as Communications Sergeant. He became a Lieutenant in 2016, serving as Special Services Lieutenant and Administrative Lieutenant before being promoted to Captain. He ultimately served as both Administrative Captain and Operations Captain.

throughout his career, Captain Lee also served as the department’s Accreditation Program Manager, helping ensure that the Ramapo Police Department maintained the professional standards required of a New York State accredited law enforcement agency. He became a longtime resource within the department for his knowledge of its operations, technology, policies, procedures, and history.

“There is no question that Kevin’s retirement will leave a void in our Department,” Ramapo Police Chief Daniel Hyman said. “For more than 34 years, he has been an indispensable part of this organization. We thank him not only for his service, but for his friendship, his leadership, and the legacy he leaves behind. We wish Kevin and his family a long, healthy and well-deserved retirement.”

Ramapo Supervisor Michael Specht also thanked Captain Lee for his decades of service, saying he demonstrated exemplary professionalism, leadership, and commitment to law enforcement throughout his career. Specht said Lee leaves “big shoes to fill” and wished him a long and happy retirement.

photos: Shulem Schwartz

Monsey marks the next step in Thryve’s growing community-based mental health network

Leading Rabbonim representing Monsey’s kehillos joined elected officials, askonim, healthcare leadership and community leaders last Thursday for the grand opening and ribbon cutting of Thryve Wellness at Lev Health, marking an important step forward for trusted and accessible mental health care in Monsey.

The opening comes just six months after Thryve launched its first psychiatry program in Williamsburg, bringing its community-based model into Monsey through a trusted local healthcare setting.

Families already turn to Lev Health for pediatrics, women’s health, primary care and acute medical care. Adding Thryve’s psychiatry program creates a direct connection between physical and mental health care, giving families a familiar place to turn when additional support is needed.

Lev Health is led clinically by Temima Levine, FNP, Clinical Director, together with Dr. Shari Hirsch, a respected pediatrician and member of the community.

“As pediatricians, we often see the first signs that a child or family may be struggling long before they arrive in a mental health setting,” Dr. Hirsch said. “When families already have a place they trust for their healthcare, being able to help them find the right next step can make an enormous difference.”

That next step is where Thryve’s model begins.

A concern may first be noticed at home, by a rav, in school, in therapy or during a medical visit. Too often, families are then left trying to find the right psychiatrist, determine insurance coverage and wait for care.

Thryve was built to close that gap.

At Lev Health, Thryve provides psychiatric evaluations, medication management and ongoing follow-up, with rapid appointments, Medicaid and most insurances accepted, and both in-person and telehealth care available.

The program is led clinically by Dr. Leah R. Steinberg, MD, Thryve Wellness’ Medical Director, a board-certified adult psychiatrist and member of the community.

“Families should not have to wait until a situation becomes a crisis before mental health care becomes accessible,” Dr. Steinberg said. “As both a psychiatrist and a mother in the community, I understand how important it is for parents to know that when something begins to concern them, there is a confidential, professional and accessible place to turn.”

On the community side, Chaim Tuchinsky, LCSW, Thryve Wellness’ Director of Outreach and Programming, works to strengthen the relationships and referral pathways connecting families with appropriate care.

The strong turnout at the opening reflected the need for that approach, bringing together rabbanim and community leadership, healthcare organizations and elected officials, including New York State Assemblymember Aron Wieder, for the ribbon cutting and opening of the new program.

For Thryve, Monsey is the next step in an expansion already underway.

Williamsburg was the beginning. Monsey is now open, with additional communities being developed as Thryve continues building local points of mental health access across the Hudson Valley and across New York State.

The goal is not simply to open more clinics. It is to build around trusted local healthcare in each community, strengthen the connection between families and care, and make mental health services easier to reach before a concern becomes a crisis.

The opening of Thryve Wellness at Lev Health brings that model directly into Monsey — combining Lev Health’s trusted place in the community with Thryve’s growing mental health network and creating a clearer path into care for local families

YS GOLD 

We regret to inform you of the passing of Mrs. Fradel (Frances) Klein, the daughter of the legendary Reb Yosef Dov Hakohen Lieberman, z"l, the longtime menahel of the Zehlimer Yeshiva in Williamsburg, and she was always proud to be the daughter of a kohen. 

Mrs. Klein was in the first class of Beis Yaakov High School in Williamsburg and was a true pioneer of the school and a prominent talmidah of Rebbetzin Vichna Kaplan. 

She truly represented the first generation of Beis Yaakov, and always spoke to the younger generations with great pride, exhorting them not to take their beis Yaakov education for granted. 

After her marriage, she resided in Willliamsburg after which she moved to Boro Park and raised a beautiful Torah family. 

Her motto was ivdu es Hashem b'simcha, and she truly lived a life of joy in service of Hashem. 

She left this world on Monday afternoon at the age of 95, leaving behind an extraordinary legacy and beautiful Torah generations. 

The levaya is taking place in Monsey, where she resided for the last decade, at Rabbi Twersky's shul on Glenbrook Road at 11:00. 

Yehi zichra baruch.

Residents across the Lower Hudson Valley may spot military fighter jets flying overhead Tuesday morning as part of a planned flyover.

F-18 aircraft are scheduled to fly approximately 2,500 feet above the Hudson River at around 10:30 a.m. on Tuesday, August 25.

The aircraft will travel north along the Hudson River, beginning near the Verrazzano-Narrows Bridge and continuing toward the Mario M. Cuomo Bridge.

The flyover is planned, and residents should not be alarmed by the sight or sound of the low-flying military aircraft.

Yisroel R.

After months of detours, traffic backups, and the biggest local traffic disruption of the year, the Route 59 bridge over South Pascack Road in Spring Valley is finally set to be completed within the next few hours, and expected to open soon thereafter.

The bridge has been completely closed since June while the New York State Department of Transportation carried out a major reconstruction of the aging structure. The closure shut down an important section of Route 59, forcing drivers onto surrounding roads and creating daily traffic headaches throughout Spring Valley and the greater Monsey area.

For local drivers, the biggest impact was the full closure itself. Route 59 is one of the main east-west roads through Spring Valley and Monsey, and shutting down the bridge pushed heavy traffic onto nearby streets including South Pascack Road, Forman Drive, Pipetown Hill Road, and South Central Avenue. In addition, the closure had a massive effect on the businesses in the area, including the major Marketplace shopping center, Bingo, and Target.

Pedestrians were also unable to cross the bridge during construction, and officials arranged a free taxi shuttle around the work zone for those who needed to get from one side to the other.

Crews replaced the bridge’s steel girders and concrete deck, repaired the abutments and wingwalls, installed new bridge railing and pedestrian fencing, and upgraded the structure to modern standards. The rebuilt bridge is also designed to carry all legal vehicle loads, removing a weight restriction that had been in place since 2020.

That restriction had already been affecting traffic for years. Following a bridge inspection in 2020, vehicles weighing more than 18 tons were forced to use alternate routes, including certain buses and trucks. The reconstruction now restores the bridge’s full load-carrying capacity while also giving the nearly century-old structure a major overhaul.

When the project began, officials said the contractor had four months to complete the work, with financial penalties for delays and incentives for finishing early. As the summer moved along, construction remained ahead of schedule, with paving, sidewalk work, and other finishing touches taking place in recent weeks.

The bridge dates back to 1931 and its reconstruction is part of a broader $16.4 million state project rehabilitating four bridges across Rockland and Westchester counties.

Now, after months of detours, backed-up side streets, and drivers adjusting their daily routes around the closure, normal traffic on Route 59 is finally expected to return very soon.

For thousands of Monsey and Spring Valley drivers, the reopening will mark the end of a summer-long traffic headache and the return of one of the area’s most important road connections.

Yisroel R.

Those who need emergency or non-emergency walk-in assistance at the Stony Point Police Station over the next few weeks may find access to the lobby and police desk limited as construction continues at the facility on Route 210.

The project includes the replacement of the front steps, entrance area, surrounding sidewalks, and stairs at the Stony Point police station, located at 79 Route 210.

The department said the work is expected to continue over the next few weeks. During that time, access to the station lobby, police desk, and other public police services will remain limited or difficult to access.

Anyone who needs walk-in assistance at the station should call the Stony Point Police Department at 845-786-2422, and a police officer will come outside to assist them.

The department thanked residents for their patience and cooperation while the improvements are completed. For emergencies, residents should always continue calling 911 for the fastest emergency response.

photos: Shloimy Trichter

MONSEY, NY – Thousands of families lined up outside the Community Outreach Center on Sunday as the organization held its first-ever Back-to-School Supply Giveaway, providing thousands of bags filled with brand-name school supplies to children across Rockland County.

With lines growing quickly outside, the event began a half hour early outside the COC Community Center at 21 Remsen Avenue. Families from throughout the 97th Assembly District and beyond continued to arrive throughout the afternoon.

Under the direction of COC Executive Director Rabbi Hersh Horowitz and with the support of Assemblyman Aron Wieder, volunteers spent the afternoon handing out bags to children preparing for the new school year.

The giveaway was made possible through a grant secured by Assemblyman Wieder in partnership with the Community Outreach Center. Each bag contained over $50 worth of top-quality, brand-name supplies from Crayola, BIC, Elmer’s, Expo, Staples, Zebra and others. In addition to Sunday’s community distribution, bags will also be provided to students in need in public schools across the 97th Assembly District.

Rockland County District Attorney Tom Walsh and Ramapo Town Supervisor Michael Specht joined Assemblyman Wieder and Rabbi Horowitz at the event, helping hand out bags and greeting families.

“This is exactly why I ran to represent this district,” said Assemblyman Wieder. “To champion initiatives that directly help families. Nothing is more important than ensuring every child in the 97th District starts the school year prepared, confident, and with the quality supplies they deserve to succeed.”

“We are grateful to Assemblyman Wieder for securing the funding to make this possible,” said Rabbi Horowitz. “We opened our doors to everyone in the community. No child should start the school year without the basics.”

Organizers said turnout far exceeded expectations, with a steady flow of families until the final bags were handed out.

Rabbi Horowitz thanked event-day sponsors Westchester Medical Center, Orange Bank & Trust, TD Bank, Rockland Kosher, Interstate Toyota, Evergreen Kosher Supermarket, The Monsey View, Light It Up and RiteCare for their support.

Yisroel R.

Late summer is a great time to grab a fishing rod and head outdoors, and with the cooler days of fall just around the corner, plenty more good fishing weather is still ahead. Whether it’s for the sport, the relaxation, or simply an enjoyable outing, fishing is a favorite way to spend time outdoors.

But a successful day on the water doesn’t necessarily mean everything caught should end up on the supper table.

The Rockland County Department of Health is reminding residents of New York State’s 2026 fish consumption advice, noting that some locally caught fish can contain chemicals that build up in the body over time. The recommendations vary depending on the type of fish and who is eating it.

For most people, yellow perch, striped bass, and brown bullhead can be eaten up to four meals per month. White sucker and white perch should be limited to one meal per month. Smallmouth bass and carp should not be eaten.

Different recommendations apply to children under 15 and people under 50 who can become pregnant. For these groups, yellow perch, striped bass, and brown bullhead are limited to one meal per month, while white sucker should not be eaten. White perch can be eaten once per month.

Health officials also recommend removing the skin and fat before cooking fish and using cooking methods that allow the fat to drip away. Residents are advised not to use the drippings for sauces or gravies.

So by all means, keep the rods ready and enjoy the remaining summer and upcoming fall fishing season. Just remember: when something starts tugging on the other end of the line, it may be a great catch but that doesn’t always make it supper worthy.

Q: How much exercise do adults really need, and why is it important? 

A: We all know exercise is good for us, but many adults wonder how much they actually need to stay healthy. The good news is that you do not have to spend hours in the gym to experience the benefits of physical activity. Even small amounts of regular exercise can make a significant difference in your overall health. 

Exercise is one of the most effective ways to prevent chronic disease and improve quality of life. Regular physical activity helps strengthen the heart and lungs, lower blood pressure, improve cholesterol levels, maintain a healthy weight, strengthen bones and muscles, and reduce the risk of conditions such as heart disease, stroke, type 2 diabetes, and certain cancers. 

Exercise also benefits mental health. Physical activity can help reduce stress, anxiety, and symptoms of depression while improving mood, sleep quality, and energy levels. Many people find that regular exercise helps them feel more focused and productive throughout the day. 

So, how much exercise do adults need? 

Current recommendations suggest that adults aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity each week. This can be broken down into 30 minutes a day, five days a week. Moderate activities include brisk walking, biking at a casual pace, dancing, or water aerobics. 

For those who prefer more vigorous activities such as running, swimming laps, or playing sports, about 75 minutes of vigorous activity per week can provide similar benefits. 

In addition to aerobic exercise, adults should perform muscle-strengthening activities at least two days per week. Strength training can include lifting weights, using resistance bands, bodyweight exercises such as push-ups and squats, or activities that work major muscle groups. 

It is important to remember that exercise does not have to happen all at once. Short sessions throughout the day can add up and still provide health benefits. Taking the stairs, walking during lunch breaks, gardening, or parking farther from your destination are simple ways to increase daily activity. 

If you have not been active recently, start slowly and gradually increase your activity level. Even a 10-minute walk each day is a great first step. The best exercise program is one that you enjoy and can maintain consistently. 

Individuals with chronic medical conditions or concerns about starting an exercise program should speak with their healthcare provider before beginning a new routine. 

Bottom line: Regular exercise is one of the best investments you can make in your health. Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate activity each week, include strength training exercises, and remember that every bit of movement counts. Staying active can help you live longer, feel better, and maintain your independence as you age. 

📍 Temima Levine, FNP

Lev Health

 📞 Call today to schedule your annual wellness visit!

Yisroel R.

Monsey will see a mostly dry and pleasant start to the week, with sunshine and temperatures staying around the upper 70s to low 80s before thunderstorms move in on Thursday.

Monday will be mostly sunny with a few afternoon clouds. The high will reach around 78 degrees, with a low of 57 degrees.

Tuesday will feature plentiful sunshine, with a high near 77 degrees and a low of 58 degrees.

Wednesday will be partly cloudy and a little warmer, with a high around 81 degrees and a low of 65 degrees.

Thursday will bring scattered thunderstorms during the morning, becoming more widespread during the afternoon. The high will reach around 77 degrees, with a low of 65 degrees and a 70% chance of rain, bringing an unsettled end to the weekly forecast.

Yisroel R.

A major expansion of usable space could be coming to the Palisades Center, with the mall seeking approval to add more than 250,000 square feet to the amount of space it is permitted to lease.

BD Palisades Center Holdings LLC is seeking to add 250,888 square feet to the mall’s current 1,854,206 square feet of leasable space. The proposal would not expand the mall’s physical footprint, but instead allow existing areas inside the property to be put into use.

A significant portion of the additional space, approximately 120,000 square feet, is located on the third and fourth floors of the former Lord & Taylor store. Other areas are located on the mall’s fourth floor, with the remaining unused space spread throughout the property.

For years, those areas were restricted from being used as leasable space under a decades-old covenant. Clarkstown voters lifted that restriction in November 2020, clearing the way for the mall to pursue expanded use of the existing space.

The proposal must now receive amended site plan approval from the Clarkstown Planning Board before moving ahead.

In application documents, the mall’s owners said the additional space could help bring more tenants into the property and reinvigorate the Palisades Center Mall.

If approved, the move would open up more than a quarter-million additional square feet for leasing inside the existing mall, potentially putting large portions of currently unused space into active use.

photo: Shutterstock

Yisroel R.

Major excavation work is now underway at 10 Ashel Lane in Kaser, bringing one of the village’s largest planned developments into a new and highly visible stage as heavy equipment begins reshaping the property.

As previously reported by Rockland Daily in late May, the project follows the $17.5 million sale of the property, together with approximately $55 million in construction and financing commitments for a massive new mixed-use complex combining residential and commercial space.

Plans call for around 100 residential units, along with major commercial component that is expected to include retail space, a planned urgent care center, and a grocery store serving Kaser and the surrounding area. The project is set to bring a substantial amount of new housing and essential services into the highly demanded Vishnitz neighborhood.

Now, with excavators actively working across the property, the development is no longer just visible on paper and in renderings. The massive project is beginning to take shape on the ground, marking a major step forward for the future of Ashel Lane and the surrounding Kaser area.

Yisroel R.

William P. Faist Volunteer Ambulance Corps is inviting local families to come out and enjoy a free Community Day packed with activities, treats, and an opportunity to meet local first responders.

The event will take place Sunday, August 30, beginning at 12:30 p.m. at 3 Red Schoolhouse Road in Chestnut Ridge.

Families can look forward to bouncy houses and face painting, along with popcorn, snow cones, cotton candy, back-to-school giveaways, and much more.

The Community Day will also give children and families an opportunity to meet some of the local first responders serving the area, including members of the Ramapo Police Department, Rockland County Sheriff’s Office, and Spring Valley Police Department.

Hosted by the William P. Faist Volunteer Ambulance Corps, the afternoon is designed as a fun community outing for the entire family as the final days of summer wind down and the new school year approaches.

The event is free to attend, with families from across the community invited to join the fun beginning at 12:30 p.m.

Thousands of Viznitz-Monsey chasidim and talmidim are preparing for a historic Nesia to Eretz Yisroel starting this Wednesday, as the Viznitz-Monsey Rebbe shlita departs for the highly anticipated weeklong “Masa Hakodesh,” highlighted by an uplifting Shabbos in Meron.

The massive nesia, which has been months in the making, is expected to draw thousands of chasidim, including hundreds of talmidei hayeshivos, for what will be the Rebbe’s first trip to Eretz Yisroel accompanied by such a large contingent of chasidim.

The Rebbe is scheduled to depart Wednesday, Parshas Ki Savo, and remain in Eretz Yisroel through the following Wednesday, Parshas Nitzavim-Vayeilech. Throughout the week, the Rebbe is expected to visit kivrei tzaddikim and mekomos hakedoshim and meet with prominent Admorim and Rabbanim.

The highlight of the Nesia will be the major Shabbos in Meron, near the tziyun of the Tanna Reb Shimon Bar Yochai, where the Rebbe will spend Shabbos together with the thousands of participants.

A major highlight is also planned for Motzei Shabbos, when renowned mashpia Reb Elimelech Biderman shlita will lead a massive hadlakah in Meron, expected to become one of the most memorable and uplifting moments of the entire journey.

The trip follows an announcement made by the Rebbe last year to the yeshiva bochurim that those who dedicate themselves to their studies and successfully complete bechinos on the masechtos being learned as part of the “Torasi” seder halimud would earn the opportunity to accompany the Rebbe on the journey.

Following the successful completion of the recent Montibello eruv extension, organizers turned their attention to another major undertaking: a significant expansion of the Suffern eruv to include dozens of families who until now remained outside its boundaries.

The newly completed extension covers a large section of the Suffern area, stretching from around Good Samaritan Hospital along Route 59 toward Route 202, and reaching from the other side toward Rockland Turnpike. The new section connects with the existing Suffern eruv in the Route 202 and Rockland Turnpike area, creating one expanded and connected eruv.

The project proved far more complicated than simply extending the existing lines. Organizers invested tremendous amounts of time, money and effort into the expansion, with numerous locations requiring customized solutions and carefully planned construction in order to meet the necessary halachic standards.

After an extensive period of planning, construction and detailed work, the project has now finally been completed. Beginning this week, the newly expanded section is officially active and kosher, bringing a long-awaited convenience to the dozens of families living throughout the newly included area.

To mark the milestone, a gathering was held for families from the area, celebrating the completion of the project and giving residents an opportunity to hear about the details of the new eruv, the extensive work that went into establishing it, and the relevant guidelines for its use.

Yisroel R.

Monsey will see a cloudy and rainy weekend, with temperatures generally in the mid to upper 70s and the best chance for thunderstorms arriving on Sunday.

Friday will be partly cloudy and pleasant, with a slight chance of rain. The high will reach around 78 degrees, with a low of 63 degrees.

Shabbos will be cloudy, with a few showers possible later in the day. The high will reach around 75 degrees, with a low of 65 degrees and a 40% chance of rain.

Sunday will start off cloudy before scattered thunderstorms develop later in the day. The high will reach around 79 degrees, with a low of 59 degrees. Some storms may bring strong, gusty winds, making for an unsettled end to the weekend.

Yisroel R.

Heavy rain is currently moving across Rockland County Thursday afternoon, bringing periods of heavier downpours as officials warn of possible flash flooding and strong thunderstorms through the evening.

Rockland County Fire and Emergency Services is advising residents that heavy rainfall could lead to flooding, particularly in low-lying areas and locations with poor drainage.

The latest excessive rainfall outlook shows total rainfall of 1.5 to 2.5 inches, with locally higher amounts possible where heavier bands of rain develop.

Strong thunderstorms are also a threat, with damaging wind gusts possible as the storm system continues moving across the region.

Residents are urged to use extreme caution while traveling and to avoid unnecessary travel during periods of heavy rain where possible. Roads can become dangerous quickly, especially in low-lying and poor-drainage areas.

Drivers should never attempt to cross a flooded roadway and should turn around if water is covering the road. Residents are also advised to remain alert and continue monitoring local weather updates as conditions develop through the afternoon and evening.

Yisroel R.

Rockland County has been awarded $1 million in state funding to support infrastructure work for a major redevelopment planned along the Haverstraw waterfront, as part of more than $38 million in funding announced by Governor Kathy Hochul for projects across New York State.

The funding is being distributed to 49 projects through the second round of the County Infrastructure Grant Program, which supports small- and medium-sized county infrastructure projects aimed at growing housing, supporting economic development, and encouraging placemaking and tourism.

In Rockland County, the $1 million will go toward critical sewer infrastructure upgrades needed to advance the Haverstraw Chair Factory Redevelopment Project along the Hudson River waterfront.

The work will include improvements to two pump stations to accommodate wastewater flow associated with the planned redevelopment. The larger project calls for approximately 450 residential units, including roughly 260 affordable housing units, along with market-rate housing, hotel accommodations, and retail space.

“Investing in infrastructure means investing in New York’s future,” Governor Hochul said. “With $38 million being awarded to 49 different projects across the state, we are giving local governments the tools they need to thrive and expand opportunities for New Yorkers.”

The County Infrastructure Grant Program was first launched in November 2024 and is administered by Empire State Development. While grants of up to $500,000 are available for priority county projects, projects supporting the creation of ten or more housing units can receive enhanced awards of up to $1 million.

More than $74 million has now been awarded to nearly 100 projects through the program. According to the governor’s announcement, the projects receiving funding in the latest round will support the construction of more than 3,200 new homes statewide, while another $50 million has been included in the FY 2027 budget for the program’s third round.

State Senate candidate Joe Rand continued his community outreach Wednesday evening in Montebello, where residents gathered to hear his vision for Rockland County. The event took place in the house of Ari Stern from Light it Up.

Held at the Stern Residence, the event gave residents an opportunity to meet Rand, ask questions, and discuss issues affecting their families and communities.

Rand outlined his priorities for Rockland and discussed his approach to addressing affordability and quality of life for local families.

The Montebello gathering follows last month's well-attended event in Pomona, with additional neighborhood meet-and-greets planned across the district in the coming weeks, giving more residents an opportunity to meet Rand and hear directly about his vision for Rockland County.

This morning, State Senator Bill Weber presented prestigious New York State Senate Empire Awards to two local businesses, YuroCuts and The Diner, recognizing their success and contributions to Rockland County.

The Empire Award is the highest honor a New York State Senator can bestow upon a local business and recognizes businesses that have demonstrated excellence while making a positive impact in the areas they serve.

Senator Weber visited YuroCuts, a local barber shop, and The Diner to personally present each business with the award and recognize the hard work and dedication behind their success.

"Small businesses are the backbone of Rockland County's economy, and the people behind them work incredibly hard every day to serve their customers, create jobs, and contribute to the places we call home," said Senator Weber. "It is a privilege to recognize YuroCuts and The Diner with the New York State Senate Empire Award and celebrate what they have accomplished."

Senator Weber has made recognizing and supporting Rockland County's small businesses a priority throughout his time in office. The Empire Awards provide an opportunity to highlight local entrepreneurs and business owners whose hard work helps strengthen the local economy and contributes to the quality of life throughout Rockland County.

"Running a successful business takes tremendous commitment, perseverance, and countless hours of hard work," the Senator added. "These awards are an opportunity to recognize that dedication and say thank you for choosing to invest, work, and build here in Rockland County."

YuroCuts and The Diner join an elite list of Rockland County businesses that Senator Weber has recognized with New York State Senate Empire Awards.

Yisroel R.

A pickup truck erupted in flames in Central Nyack on Thursday morning, sending heavy flames and smoke into the air as the fire quickly spread to a nearby three-story townhouse and drew a large emergency response.

The fire began in the pickup truck, which was parked next to the home at 34 Forest Road. The vehicle became fully engulfed before the flames reached the siding of the nearby townhouse, with firefighters rushing to stop the blaze from spreading further.

Central Nyack Fire Department responded to the scene, with mutual aid from the West Nyack and Piermont fire departments. Clarkstown Police also responded as crews worked to bring the fast-spreading fire under control.

Minor injuries were reported after one person fell while evacuating her home and was treated following the incident.

Fire investigators are now working to determine what caused the pickup truck to catch fire and the exact origin of the blaze.

Yisroel R.

This week’s Dee Voch brings readers another packed issue filled with major events from across the heimishe world, fascinating personalities, history, business, inspiration, and plenty for the entire family.

In Dee Voch, readers will find extensive coverage and photos from the massive “Mekadshei Shimecha” gathering for thousands of Viznitz Chassidim, along with the Hachnosas Sefer Torah to the Satmar Yeshiva Gedolah in Kiryas Joel.

The issue also features the Satmar Rebbe’s visit to Machanos Rav Tov, including the special Hanachas Even Hapinah ceremony, as well as coverage marking the yahrtzeits of the Spinka Rebbe zt”l, the Noam Eliezer of Skulen zt”l, the Tosh Rebbe zt”l, and the Rachmastrivka Rebbe zt”l.

Also featured are the bris for a grandson of the Bobov Rebbe at Camp Kerem Shlomo, the Toldos Avrohom Yitzchok Rebbe davening at the tziyun of Rabbi Shimon Bar Yochai in Meron, the Bobov-45 Rebbe visiting the Satmar Rebbe in Kiryas Yoel, the Viener Rav visiting Camp Adas Yereim Vien, the Kossover Rebbe davening at Mishkan Shiloh, and the Skulen-Lakewood Rebbe’s visit to Eretz Yisrael.

This week’s Shrift, “Al Har Woodridge,” takes readers for a Shabbos inside Woodridge, the oldest Jewish Catskills community, exploring its rich history and colorful year-round residents. The feature includes a special conversation with Hagaon Hatzaddik Rabbi Yitzchok Lebowitz shlita, Gaavad Woodridge, and a look at the village’s heimshe mayor’s approach to solving the local housing crisis.

In Business Shrift, “Daas Baal Habayis,” readers meet askan R’ Boruch Yitzchok Weiss and discover the story behind how he built his well-known businesses, Mr. Clean cleaning company and Fast Act restoration company.

This week’s Fink, “Shuvu Bonim,” tells the remarkable story of Mrs. Pinter, who leads a program helping young Russian Jewish girls growing up in assimilated surroundings reconnect with their Jewish roots. Through the seminary experience and the warmth of Shabbos spent with frum families, the girls discover a new world of Yiddishkeit, with the program’s success today reflected in the beautiful Torah homes built by many of its former students.

And in this week’s Kinder Shrift  young readers will learn something they encounter almost every day: Why does every area have a different telephone code? Why do callers use 845 for Monsey, while Williamsburg uses 718? The feature explains how area codes work and why different places received different numbers.

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

Hatzoloh EMS of Rockland County received two new ambulances today as part of its ongoing efforts to modernize and strengthen its emergency response fleet.

Hatzoloh plans to have both ambulances fully equipped, inspected, and ready for service before Rosh Hashanah, IY”H. Before entering service, each ambulance will be wrapped with Hatzoloh’s official markings and undergo a comprehensive preparation process to ensure that it is properly outfitted and ready to respond to a wide range of medical emergencies.

With Hatzoloh responding to approximately 20,000 calls annually throughout Rockland County and the surrounding areas, maintaining a modern and dependable ambulance fleet is essential. The ambulances are in use around the clock, responding to emergencies and transporting patients to hospitals throughout the region.

Hatzoloh continually works to stay ahead of the growing needs of the community by carefully evaluating its fleet, planning for the future, and replacing older ambulances with newer, updated vehicles. This ongoing investment helps ensure that sufficient ambulances are available throughout the communities Hatzoloh serves and that each vehicle is properly equipped to provide the highest level of emergency medical care.

The arrival of these two ambulances represents another important step in Hatzoloh’s efforts to expand its resources, maintain a strong and reliable fleet, and remain prepared to meet the community’s emergency medical needs—both today and in the years ahead.

Hatzoloh extends its sincere appreciation to the Town of Ramapo Supervisor Michael Specht and the entire Town Board for their consistent support of Hatzoloh and its lifesaving mission, and especially for their assistance in making the acquisition of these two new ambulances possible.

The Rockland County District Attorney’s Office teamed up with People to People to help local children prepare for the upcoming school year, donating a collection of backpacks and school supplies contributed by members of the office.

The donations included backpacks, notebooks, pencils, glue sticks and other classroom essentials aimed at ensuring children have the supplies they need as they return to school.

The initiative is intended to ease back-to-school costs for families while helping students begin the new academic year prepared for the classroom.

PIERMONT, NY - Assemblyman Aron Wieder met recently with Piermont Mayor Nathan Mitchell and Trustee Jeff Gordon to discuss the village's priorities and how he can continue to support Piermont in Albany.

During the meeting, village officials outlined several pressing needs.

Wieder shared that he was proud to have secured $50,000 in state funding for the replacement and upgrade of police and fire department radios. The funding will provide both departments with reliable, up-to-date communication equipment critical for emergency response, officer and firefighter safety, and coordination between agencies during daily operations and emergency incidents.

When Mayor Mitchell raised the urgent need for drainage improvements on Ritie Street, noting the significant cost burden on village residents, Wieder announced an additional $100,000 grant to support the project. The funding will go toward the installation of a properly sized stormwater drainage system to prevent erosion and better manage runoff.

“I’m proud to secure this funding to help Piermont address important infrastructure needs, protect homes and property from stormwater and erosion, and reduce the financial burden on local taxpayers,” said Assemblyman Wieder.

Mayor Mitchell and Trustee Gordon  thanked Assemblyman Wieder for his support, noting the grants will make a meaningful difference in improving public safety and addressing long-standing infrastructure needs in the village.

Amid the recent increase in incidents involving e-bikes, e-scooters, and hoverboards, Rockland Daily collaborated with a group of prominent local officials, first responders, and medical professionals on a special “Rockland Wake Up” video, providing them a platform to speak directly to Rockland residents about the importance of safety and responsible riding.

Featured in the video are Ramapo Police Chief Daniel Hyman, Spring Valley Police Chief Richard Oleszcuk, Town of Ramapo Supervisor Michael Specht, Hatzoloh EMS of Rockland County Captain Abe Rosenberg, Spring Valley Deputy Mayor Yisroel Eisenbach, Good Samaritan Hospital emergency physician Dr. Charles Fleischner, MD, and Monsey Fire Department Captain Gary Rothschild.

Each shared the message from his own perspective, stressing the importance of greater awareness and safer riding as e-bikes, e-scooters, and hoverboards continue to share Rockland’s busy roads with vehicles and pedestrians. The message of the campaign is simple: Ride smart. Stay alert. Stay safe.

Yisroel R.

A special family simcha is approaching in the Skverer court with the upcoming chasunah of a great-grandchild of the Skver Rebbe shlita. The wedding will take place in Eretz Yisrael, where both the chassan and kallah live, making it the first wedding of one of the Rebbe’s grandchildren or great-grandchildren that he will not attend in person.

The kallah is the eldest grandchild of the Zvehiller Rebbe of America shlita, a son-in-law of the Skverer Rebbe. The kallah, a daughter of Harav Gedaliah Yaakov Leib Goldman shlita, the Zvehiller Rebbe’s eldest son. Harav Goldman is a son-in-law of Hagaon Hatzaddik Rav Yaakov Yeshaya Zev Gross shlita, Holmin Rav in Beitar, who is the son of the Holmin Rebbe Shlita. Harav Gross is the son-in-law of the Zutshka Rebbe zt”l. The chassan is a son of Harav Yosef Schiff, a son-in-law of the Modzitzer Rebbe shlita.

The celebrations will begin this Shabbos with the aufruf at the Modzitz Beis Medrash Hagadol in Bnei Brak. The chassan muhl will be held Motzei Shabbos at Beis Malka in Yerushalayim, followed by the chasunah on Sunday night, Parshas Ki Savo, at Heichalei Malchus in Bnei Brak.

The first two sheva brachos will take place in Eretz Yisrael. The chassan, kallah, and family will then travel to New York, where a sheva brachos will be held Wednesday at the Zvehill Beis Medrash in Monsey.

The central sheva brachos in America will take place Thursday night at the Beis Medrash Hagadol in Shikun Skver, where thousands of Skverer Chassidim are expected to join the Rebbe and his family celebrating the simcha. The celebrations will continue through Shabbos with the Shabbos Sheva Brachos in Shikun Skver.

The grandfather of the kallah, the Zvehiller Rebbe shlita arrived in Eretz Yisrael today ahead of the chasunah and will spend the coming Shabbos, Parshas Ki Seitzei, at the Skverer Beis Medrash in Yerushalayim. A large farshpiel will be held there on Motzei Shabbos in honor of the upcoming wedding.

Although the Skverer Rebbe will remain in New York during the chasunah itself, the Rebbe will hold a special seudah at his home together with his children and grandchildren, marking the simcha with his family from afar.

Yisroel R.

A special Maamad Kviyas Mezuzah was held Tuesday afternoon at the new offices and warehouse of the Monsey Eruv, marking a major milestone as the organization prepares to move its operations into one large and newly prepared location.

The new 3,000-square-foot facility, located at 42 Grove Street in Spring Valley, will bring the Eruv’s offices, trucks, equipment, and materials together under one roof, making day-to-day operations easier and more organized.

Until now, the Eruv’s offices and vehicles were located in separate locations, while the trucks and equipment were kept outdoors. This created difficulties throughout the year and especially during the winter months, when snow and other bad weather could slow down operations.

The new location will provide indoor space for the trucks and materials, along with large office space for staff members and those involved in fundraising and other Eruv operations. It also includes a large conference room where Rabbanim and Dayanim can meet and discuss matters relating to the Eruv.

A total of 10 mezuzahs were placed throughout the new facility during Tuesday’s maamad, including on the offices, hallways, and other areas of the facility.

Rabbanim, Dayanim, Askonim, staff, and members of the Monsey Eruv team came together for the occasion, followed by a l’chaim celebrating the completion of a project into which considerable time, effort, and resources were invested.

Among those participating were numerous Admorim and Rabbanim, including the Vizhnitzer Rebbe, both Satmar Rabbanim, as well as Rabbanim and Dayanim from Pupa, Belz, Bobov-45, and other Kehillos.

The new facility is expected to give the Eruv team significantly more space and allow its different operations to work together from one central location, with room for the vehicles, materials, offices, meetings, and ongoing work needed to maintain the Eruv.

The Eruv of Monsey hopes to begin moving into the new location over the next week or two, bringing the long-awaited new facility into regular use.

MONTEBELLO, NY - Following a strong turnout in Pomona last month, candidate for State Senate Joe Rand will continue his community outreach in Montebello tomorrow night, August 19th, with a Meet & Greet for local residents.

The event will be held at the Stern Residence, 12 Zeck Ct, Montebello, at 9:00 PM. Residents will have the opportunity to meet Rand, ask questions, and discuss issues facing their families and community. Light refreshments will be served.

The gathering is part of a series of neighborhood events, with additional outreach scheduled next week in Grandview. The events follow last month's well-attended meet-and-greet in Pomona, where residents engaged on affordability, public safety, education, and child care.

photos: Avrumi Blum

Yisroel R.

SCN services are set to return following last month’s suspension, with the program moving forward under new restrictions, updated rules, and increased oversight.

Under the latest guidance, certain providers are once again being allowed to accept HRSN referrals and begin providing services to eligible members.

The return comes after services were suspended last month, affecting members who rely on the SCN program for food, nutrition, and other forms of assistance.

At the same time, the program is moving forward with tighter guidelines, including updated rules surrounding eligibility, household benefits, documentation, and how certain services are provided.

New York State has released another version of the SCN Operations Manual, which includes additional guidance for providers and members and places a stronger focus on compliance and oversight.

The new HRSN update limits the amount for a number of services, including nutrition benefits and other forms of assistance available through the program.

The updated rules are aimed at allowing SCN services to move forward while putting clearer requirements and additional oversight in place as the program continues.

Those looking to learn more about the updated SCN program and how the new rules may affect them are encouraged to reach out to an SCN service provider or visit the State website for additional information and guidance.

Members of the Nanuet Fire Department sharpened their emergency response skills during their latest weekly drill, focusing on techniques used to safely rescue victims trapped inside vehicles.

Chill With Bill is back, as New York State Senator Bill Weber kicks off the first of many events planned throughout Rockland County. The popular series gives residents an opportunity to meet with Senator Weber in a casual setting, ask questions, discuss the issues that matter to them, and hear directly from the Senator.

The first Chill With Bill gathering will be hosted by Amir Benisti and Avi Hirsch at 24 Tamarack Lane in Pomona on Thursday, August 20 at 8:00 p.m.

Constituents are invited to stop by for refreshments and lively conversation while connecting with friends, neighbors, and Senator Weber. Whether there is a question to ask, a concern to raise, or simply an interest in stopping by for conversation, all are welcome.

Thursday's gathering is just the beginning, with additional Chill With Bill events planned in neighborhoods throughout Rockland County.

Yisroel R.

The Village of Spring Valley is inviting residents to come together next month for a 9/11 Memorial Ceremony, as our nation marks 25 years since the September 11, 2001 terror attacks.

The ceremony will take place on Friday, September 11, at 11:00 a.m. outside Spring Valley Village Hall, located at 200 North Main Street. Residents, families and community members are encouraged to attend and join in remembering the lives lost on that tragic day.

The gathering will also honor the courage of the first responders and countless others who rushed toward danger to help save lives, giving residents a chance to reflect on a day that changed the world forever.

Village officials said the ceremony is meant to bring residents together in remembrance, whether they personally lost someone on 9/11, know a family that was affected, or simply to stand together united 25 years later.

In case of rain, the ceremony will be moved inside Village Hall. The village is encouraging residents to attend and stand together in solidarity on a day that changed so many lives and showed the strength, resilience, and unity we have as people and as a nation.

Yisroel R.

Two people were arrested after Spring Valley Police carried out multiple search warrants last week as part of a month-long investigation into illegal gambling operations in the village.

The search warrants were executed at around 5:30 p.m. on Wednesday, August 12, at two locations, 44 North Main Street and 26 North Main Street.

Cesar Hernandez-Amparo, 46, of Hillcrest, and Jose Chavez-Torres, 50, of Spring Valley, were arrested and charged with promoting gambling in the first degree, a felony, as well as possession of gambling records in the second degree and possession of a gambling device, both misdemeanors. Both individuals were released following further proceedings.

Spring Valley Police thanked the New York State Police and the Rockland County Sheriff’s Office Bureau of Criminal Investigations for assisting in the investigation. Anyone with further information related to this case or to similar activity is asked to contact the Spring Valley Police Department at 845-356-7400.

photos: Achim Lanchevsky

Yisroel R.

Congressman Mike Lawler received the endorsement of a broad coalition of law enforcement associations from across the Hudson Valley, New York City, and New York State during a “Cops for Mike Lawler” event held today at the Haverstraw Elks Lodge.

The endorsements came from the Rockland County PBA, Police Conference of New York, Port Authority PBA, Port Authority Sergeants Benevolent Association, Haverstraw PBA, Yorktown PBA, Carmel PBA, Carmel LBA, Westchester County Corrections Superior Officers Association, New York State Supreme Court Officers Association, and the Sergeants Benevolent Association of New York City.

Lawler thanked every association president and officer who attended the event, saying he was honored and proud to receive the support of organizations representing law enforcement officers across the region and state.

Lawler said he has always been proud to stand with the men and women in blue and will continue backing officers who put their lives on the line to protect their communities. He said law enforcement deserves leaders who will provide officers with the support and resources necessary to do their jobs safely and effectively.

The endorsements highlighted Lawler’s strong backing among law enforcement organizations as he campaigns for reelection to Congress in November.

 regional coalition representing 16 municipalities along both sides of the Hudson River is backing calls for New York State to take a fresh look at restoring passenger rail service along the West Shore Line.

All Aboard Hudson Valley announced that Historic Hudson River Towns (HHRT) has signed a letter to Gov. Kathy Hochul calling on the state to fund and initiate a modern feasibility study examining the potential restoration of passenger service along the historic rail corridor.

HHRT represents communities in Rockland and Westchester counties, including Nyack, Haverstraw, Sleepy Hollow, Tarrytown, Ossining, Yonkers and Hastings-on-Hudson, among others.

The organization's Board of Directors unanimously approved the letter, with support coming from communities on both sides of the Hudson. A majority of HHRT's member municipalities are located east of the river, adding a regional dimension to the push for improved transportation options on the west side.

The letter points to the longstanding disparity in public transportation access between communities on the eastern and western sides of the Hudson and argues that passenger rail along the West Shore could support housing, economic development, investment and greater mobility throughout the region.

The effort, which began as a grassroots push for renewed consideration of passenger rail service, has increasingly gained support from municipalities, counties, elected officials and community organizations across the Hudson Valley.

photos: Y Stein

Q: What is sleep hygiene, and why is it important? 

A: Many adults struggle with getting enough quality sleep. Whether it's difficulty falling asleep, waking up during the night, or feeling tired despite spending enough time in bed, poor sleep can have a significant impact on overall health. One of the most effective ways to improve sleep is by practicing good sleep hygiene. 

Sleep hygiene refers to the habits and routines that help promote consistent, restful sleep. Just as brushing your teeth helps maintain oral health, healthy sleep habits help support your physical and mental well-being. 

Getting adequate sleep is important because sleep allows the body to repair and restore itself. During sleep, the brain processes information, supports memory, regulates mood, and helps maintain normal body functions. Poor sleep has been linked to an increased risk of high blood pressure, heart disease, obesity, diabetes, depression, and weakened immune function. 

Adults generally need seven to nine hours of sleep each night, although individual needs may vary. Quality matters just as much as quantity. Interrupted or restless sleep may leave you feeling tired even after spending enough time in bed. 

Here are several ways to improve sleep hygiene: 

Maintain a Consistent Sleep Schedule

 Try to go to bed and wake up at the same time every day, including weekends. A regular schedule helps regulate your body's internal clock. 

Create a Relaxing Bedtime Routine

 Activities such as reading, gentle stretching, meditation, or taking a warm shower can signal to your body that it is time to sleep. 

Limit Screen Time Before Bed

The blue light emitted by phones, tablets, computers, and televisions can interfere with the body's production of melatonin, a hormone that helps regulate sleep. Consider avoiding screens for at least an hour before bedtime. 

Watch Your Caffeine and Alcohol Intake

 Caffeine can stay in the body for several hours and may make it difficult to fall asleep. While alcohol may initially cause drowsiness, it can disrupt sleep later in the night. 

Make Your Bedroom Sleep-Friendly

 A cool, dark, and quiet environment can improve sleep quality. Comfortable bedding and limiting distractions can also be helpful. 

Stay Physically Active

 Regular exercise can improve sleep quality and help you fall asleep more easily. However, vigorous exercise close to bedtime may interfere with sleep for some individuals. 

Avoid Long Daytime Naps

 Short naps may be beneficial, but long or late-afternoon naps can make it harder to fall asleep at night. 

If you continue to have trouble sleeping despite practicing good sleep hygiene, it may be time to speak with your healthcare provider. Conditions such as sleep apnea, restless leg syndrome, anxiety, depression, or certain medications can affect sleep and may require further evaluation. 

Bottom line: Sleep is not a luxury—it is a necessity for good health. Practicing healthy sleep habits can improve energy, mood, concentration, and overall well-being. Small changes to your daily routine can often lead to better sleep and better health. 

📍 Temima Levine, FNP

Lev Health

 📞 Call today to schedule your annual wellness visit!

Yisroel R.

Monsey will see a mostly sunny and warm week, with temperatures staying in the mid-80s through Thursday. Monday through Wednesday will remain mainly dry, before the chance for showers and thunderstorms returns on Thursday.

Monday will be partly cloudy and warm, with a high around 85 degrees and a low of 66 degrees. It may feel closer to 89 degrees at times.

Tuesday will feature plenty of sunshine with a few passing clouds. The high will reach around 84 degrees, with a low of 64 degrees.

Wednesday will be mostly sunny with just a few clouds and temperatures remaining warm. The high will reach around 85 degrees, with a low of 68 degrees.

Thursday will bring a change in the weather, with some early showers followed by the chance for scattered thunderstorms later in the day. The high will reach around 86 degrees, with a low of 63 degrees. Potential storms that develop could bring strong, gusty winds.

The world of kashrus has lost one of its most extraordinary figures with the passing of Rav Avrohom Yitzchok Juravel zt”l, a longtime resident of Monsey whose name became synonymous with a rare combination of Torah knowledge and expertise in the technical realities of modern food production.

For more than forty years, Rav Juravel devoted himself to kashrus. As Rabbinic Coordinator for Technical Services at OU Kosher, he became a trusted resource for rabbonim, poskim, mashgichim, kashrus professionals and food manufacturers confronting the increasingly complex questions of contemporary food technology.

His particular greatness was his ability to understand both sides of the equation. One had to understand the machinery, piping, production lines, oils, cleaning systems and precise manufacturing processes behind the product.

Rav Juravel understood all of it.

A Family Legacy

His connection to kashrus went back generations. His grandfather, Rav Shmuel Zev Juravel, and his father, Rav Yosef Eliezer Juravel, both served as shochtim and devoted themselves to the kashrus needs of their communities.

His grandfather was himself involved in an important chapter of kashrus history. The question of whether turkey could be accepted as a kosher species was brought to Rav Chaim Brisker by Rav Shmuel Zev Juravel. Rav Chaim ruled that turkey could be eaten, helping establish its place on kosher tables.

Rav Avrohom Yitzchok carried that legacy into a radically different era.

His professional career began as a mashgiach under Rav Yaakov Posen, dayan of Khal Adas Yeshurun in Washington Heights. He remained there for more than a decade, developing a foundation in the intricacies of kashrus while gaining firsthand knowledge of commercial food production. He subsequently worked for the OK and the Badatz of the Eidah Hachareidis before joining the OU.

In total, his kashrus responsibilities brought him to approximately forty foreign countries, and to every single state within the United States. 

A Legacy of Knowledge

Rav Juravel did not keep his knowledge within the professional kashrus world. His many shiurim on practical kashrus eventually became the foundation for his sefer, Midi D'Achilah, bringing the complicated realities of industrial food production to a wider audience.

He was particularly fond of emphasizing that the most important tool available to a kashrus professional was not sophisticated technology, but common sense: the ability to observe carefully, ask the right questions and recognize when something does not add up.

That philosophy reflected the essence of his life's work.

Rav Juravel stood at the intersection of two worlds—the beis medrash and the modern factory. The principles of halacha remained unchanged, but the world to which they had to be applied was constantly evolving.

His grandfather had once brought the question of turkey before Rav Chaim Brisker. Generations later, Rav Avrohom Yitzchok was tracing pipes through an oil refinery.

Different questions. Different technologies. Different generations.

But the same mission: ensuring that the Jewish people could live according to halacha as the circumstances of the world around them changed.

The levayah will take place Sunday morning, at 11 a.m., at Kehillas Zichron Yitzchok, located at 36 Pennington Way in Spring Valley, NY.

Yehi zichro baruch.

photos: Shmuel Deri

Yisroel R.

A major Orange & Rockland gas main replacement project will begin along College Road in Monsey, bringing an approximately $830,000 investment into the neighborhood’s natural gas infrastructure.

The project, led by Orange and Rockland and its contractor, Precision Pipeline Solutions calls for the replacement of more than 5,000 feet of aging bare steel gas main with new plastic main along College Road, stretching from Smolley Drive to Carlton Road. The work also extends for a small section west along Carlton Road.

According to O&R, the extensive replacement work is aimed at strengthening the area’s natural gas infrastructure and improving the reliability of the gas system for local residents.

As part of the project, crews will also replace nine individual gas services along College Road and another two along Carlton Road. Customers whose services will be affected will be notified in advance to schedule the replacement work.

The project is expected to take approximately five weeks to complete, weather permitting, with construction taking place during the standard business hours specified under the Rockland County permit.

No road closures are planned during the work. Flaggers will be stationed in the construction area to maintain traffic flow and keep as many lanes open as possible while work is taking place.

The contractor will also establish designated work zones and required safety measures as the infrastructure project moves forward.

Members of the Rockland Conservation & Service Corps have spent the summer working on environmental and conservation projects across Rockland County, including trail improvements, stream inspections and efforts aimed at protecting local waterways.

At Harriman State Park, Corps members worked alongside the Palisades Interstate Park Commission’s trail crew to maintain and improve trails. Their work included rerouting and resurfacing trails, constructing steps and implementing erosion-control measures.

Corps members also worked on trails at South Mountain, where the County Parks crew used a technique known as sidehilling to carve flat hiking paths into sloped terrain. The method helps create more comfortable trails while reducing erosion, water pooling and the formation of unofficial paths.

Another team partnered with the Rockland County Drainage Agency to inspect streams, brooks and creeks throughout the county. Members looked for blockages, pollution and other conditions that could affect local waterways and drainage systems.

The inspections also support flood mitigation efforts by identifying problems that can interfere with water flow and potentially contribute to flooding.

Additional inspections were conducted in Wesley Hills and New Hempstead, where Corps members examined stormwater outfalls for illicit discharges, signs of pollution and infrastructure damage.

The projects provided Corps members with hands-on experience in environmental stewardship while assisting county and regional agencies with maintaining trails, monitoring waterways and protecting local natural resources.

Construction is moving steadily on the new permanent home of Semihai Shul, as crews continue making visible progress on the project adjacent to Good Samaritan Hospital.

The development will include a spacious new beis medrash together with a brand-new mikvah, creating a permanent center that will serve the growing communities throughout Rockland and Orange counties.

What began just six years ago, when the Rav recognized the need for a welcoming place for those coming to and from Good Samaritan Hospital, has grown far beyond its original vision with hundreds of families living in the area. What started as a small local shul has quietly become a regional makom Torah, tefillah, and chesed, welcoming and serving thousands of people from across the Hudson Valley and beyond.

After years of operating from its current location and becoming a familiar destination for families visiting the hospital, as well as residents from across the region, the new building is designed to meet the increasing demand for daily minyanim, Torah learning, and community gatherings.

Located just steps from Good Samaritan Hospital, the new complex will continue the shul's longstanding mission of serving patients, visitors, hospital staff, and residents from communities including Monsey, Airmont, Suffern, New Square, Monroe, Kiryas Joel, Woodbury, and beyond.

Haverstraw Ambulance Corps responded to 2,592 emergency calls during the first seven months of 2026, according to a community update released by the organization.

The monthly figures show the corps handled 385 calls in January, 310 in February, 303 in March, 276 in April, 443 in May, 411 in June and 464 in July. July was the busiest month of the period, followed by May.

Along with the call statistics, Haverstraw Ambulance Corps highlighted several recent upgrades to its operations and equipment.

The corps added a new ambulance, designated 51B5, to its emergency response fleet and introduced new first-aid tents for use at community events and other locations where on-site medical assistance may be needed.

The organization also upgraded its documentation system, including new equipment installed inside its emergency vehicles and improvements to its onboard setup.

The updates come as the volunteer ambulance corps continues handling hundreds of emergency calls each month throughout Haverstraw and the surrounding community.

Suffern Police have announced the arrest of a 19-year-old local resident in connection with an early-morning fire on Woodland Drive. The department released the following statement detailing the incident and subsequent investigation:

On Monday August 10th, at approximately 5AM, The Suffern Police Department received multiple calls reporting an active fire on Woodland Drive. Suffern police officers responded and observed what appeared to be a vehicle on fire, parked in the driveway of the residence. The Suffern fire department responded to the scene and was able to extinguish the fire before it spread to nearby vehicles and the residence. A preliminary investigation by responding patrol officers led them to believe the cause of the fire was suspicious. Suffern police detectives subsequently responded to the scene and along with assistance from the Rockland County Sheriff’s BCI and fire investigation unit, determined the fire originated in refuse that was placed near the curb for garbage collection and spread to the vehicle parked in the driveway. 

Suffern police detectives continued to investigate the case over the next several days and developed a suspect, a 19-year-old Suffern resident. The suspect was interviewed and subsequently arrested and charged with Arson in the third degree, as well as criminal mischief in the second degree. Based on the investigation, it appears that the suspect and victims had no connection to each other and the fire was not specifically targeted towards any particular individual(s). It is believed that the suspect was walking home after consuming alcohol, and randomly and intentionally ignited the refuse. 

The Suffern police department would like to thank the Rockland County Sheriff’s Office for their assistance in the investigation. We would also like to thank Mayor Michael Curley and the Suffern Village Board for their support with this investigation. The police department was in continuous contact with the board throughout the investigation and the board made it clear that the safety of our residents is a top priority for them and that we had their full support in bringing this case to a successful resolution.

Yisroel R..

Monsey will enjoy a pleasant start to the weekend, with partly cloudy skies Friday and mostly sunny conditions on Shabbos. A major change arrives Sunday, when rain is expected throughout the day.

Friday will be partly cloudy with a high around 85 degrees and a low of 62 degrees.

Shabbos will be mostly sunny with a few afternoon clouds. The high will reach around 82 degrees, with a low of 62 degrees.

Sunday will turn rainy, with showers early becoming steadier later in the day. The high will reach around 78 degrees, with a low of 69 degrees, making for a wet and unsettled end to the weekend.

YS GOLD

A multi-vehicle motor vehicle accident occurred Thursday evening on the northbound NYS Thruway near Mile Marker 31.1, involving several vehicles and resulting in one vehicle leaving the roadway and entering the Ramapo River.

The vehicle rolled down an embankment and came to rest submerged in the river. Despite the difficult circumstances, all occupants of the vehicle were successfully extricated.

Hillburn and Tallman Fire Departments responded to the scene, along with New York State Police, Hatzoloh and EMS personnel. One person sustained minor injuries, and was transported by Faist EMS to Westchester Medical Center. 

Emergency crews remained on scene as they addressed the crash and the vehicle that entered the river.

Talmidim and admirers of the late Rosh Yeshiva, Hagaon Rav Mordechai Beck Z”L, will gather tonight for a major Shloshim seudah and kinus marking thirty days since his petirah.

The gathering will take place tonight, Leil Shishi Parshas Shoftim, at 7:00 p.m. sharp at Ateres Chaya Sarah, bringing together talmidim to commemorate the Rosh Yeshiva and strengthen themselves in continuing along the path he established.

Among those scheduled to address the gathering is Harav Elazar Yonah Ginzberg Shlita, Rav of Khal Beis Yitzchok-Svalyava in Williamsburg, who will share reflections on the Rosh Yeshiva and his legacy.

The Town of Clarkstown has been named the winner of State Senator Bill Weber’s Five Towns of Rockland Blood Competition after collecting 62 units of donated blood during the countywide effort.

Clarkstown Supervisor George Hoehmann announced the results, saying the town led the competition with 62 units collected. According to the town, those donations have the potential to help save as many as 186 lives.

The blood drive competition brought communities across Rockland County together with a shared goal of encouraging residents to donate blood and help replenish the region’s blood supply.

Hoehmann thanked residents throughout the county who participated, as well as Weber, John Mulgrew and staff involved in organizing the initiative.

While Clarkstown finished at the top of the competition, organizers emphasized the broader impact of the effort, with every donation potentially helping patients in need of lifesaving blood.

Yisroel R.

Members of the William P. Faist Ambulance Corps along with Monsey Fire Department, Dept 7, took part in a joint mass casualty incident training Wednesday evening, giving emergency responders the chance to practice working together during a major emergency.

The hands-on drill was centered around a realistic structure fire scenario involving multiple patients and a fast-moving MCI scene, allowing crews to train under conditions designed to closely resemble a real life emergency.

Members practiced patient triage and treatment, including identifying and prioritizing critical patients while providing care under pressure, as well as command, EMS operations, scene organization, and keeping the overall response coordinated as the exercise unfolded.

The training gave both departments an opportunity to work through the challenges that can come with a large-scale emergency involving numerous patients, while strengthening communication and coordination between local fire and ambulance responders.

Following the drill, members took part in a post-training debrief hosted by the Monsey Fire Department, where they reviewed the response, discussed what worked well, and went over lessons that can be carried into future operations.

The Monsey Fire Department, Department 7, and William P. Faist Ambulance Corps thanked NYUSA Development for providing the space needed to conduct the large-scale training exercise, allowing responders to carry out the MCI training scenario in a realistic setting.

“At Faist, we are always focused on continuous training and becoming better every single day,” Faist Ambulance Chief Shimmy Singer told Rockland Daily. “Our ultimate goal is to make sure our members are prepared for any situation so that when the call comes in, we are ready to respond and save lives.”

The Route 59 bridge reconstruction project over South Pascack Road is entering its final stretch, with crews making significant progress and the long-awaited reopening potentially just weeks away.

Crews were observed repaving portions of the roadway Thursday, another visible sign that the major reconstruction project is nearing completion.

According to sources familiar with the project, the bridge could possibly reopen in approximately two weeks, although an official reopening date has not yet been announced.

A new practical travel handbook designed to help visitors navigate a trip to Israel is being distributed free with this week’s Dee Voch package for Parshas Shoftim.

The special Dee Voch-Shrift project, titled “Vegvaizer,” brings together practical information and resources for travelers in one convenient guide, covering many of the details visitors may need before and during a stay in Israel.

The handbook includes detailed listings with addresses and phone numbers for a wide range of services and destinations, including minyanim, mekomos hakedoshim, rabbanim and admorim, drivers, apartments, mikvaos, grocery stores, restaurants, attractions and museums.

In addition to its directories, the guide features practical instructions and informative articles intended to help travelers prepare in advance and better understand what to expect during their visit.

Detailed maps of major heimishe neighborhoods are also included, giving visitors a convenient way to familiarize themselves with local areas and find important destinations.

Readers can also take advantage of special discounts offered by participating local businesses featured in the handbook.

photos: Shulem Schwartz

Yisroel R.

The Town of Ramapo has approved an update to its taxicab law, replacing the existing Chapter 255 of the Town Code with a new version designed to strengthen enforcement and address safety concerns involving taxi drivers and companies operating throughout the Town.

The change was taken up during a public hearing held on August 10 at Ramapo Town Hall. Town officials told Rockland Daily that the update was not prompted by one specific incident, but rather by issues that became clear as the previous law was used in practice and reviewed by the Town Board and Taxi Commission.

Under the new law, enforcement can now be taken not only against individual taxi drivers, but also against the taxi companies they are associated with. The law also creates a presumption that a vehicle may be operating as a taxi if it appears to be soliciting riders, such as when a cab is waiting outside a supermarket with its taxi light on.

Taxi companies will also have a greater responsibility to keep the Town updated about changes involving their drivers. Companies will be required to promptly notify the Town if a driver’s status changes, including cases involving a suspended license or a lapse in insurance.

The new law also increases insurance requirements for taxis, adding another layer of protection for passengers and the public. Town officials said that the overall changes are intended to give regulators clearer tools to deal with drivers or companies operating with violations.

“The overall goal of the law remains the same, to ensure the health, safety and welfare of our residents, many of whom rely on taxis as a primary mode of transportation,” Town of Ramapo Supervisor Michael Specht said. “The new law will make enforcement easier against drivers and cab companies that operate unsafely or unlawfully.”

GLEN SPEY, NY - Assemblyman Aron Wieder visited Camp Teumim in Glen Spey this past week, touring the sprawling Catskills campus that is home to more than 850 mesivta bochurim from Lakewood, Brooklyn, and Monsey for the summer.

The camp is run by twin brothers, Rabbi Yaakov and Rabbi Chaim Metzger, and has built a reputation as a premier mesivta camp, combining serious learning sedorim with a full-scale summer camp experience. What began as a vision to provide yeshiva bochurim with both intense hasmada and top-tier programming has grown into a model for camps of its kind.

Over the past two years, the camp turned to Assemblyman Wieder for help navigating utility upgrades and regulatory hurdles. Wieder and his staff assisted in moving those issues forward.

During his visit, Wieder toured the camp's extensive grounds, including its batei medrash, sports fields, pools, and private lake, as well as the camp's extensive kitchen and multiple dining rooms serving the hundreds of bochurim. He was delighted to meet campers from his own district among the hundreds in attendance.

He said he was particularly impressed not only by the scale of the campus, but by the dedication and warmth shown by the directors, rabbeim, and staff to each talmid.

Addressing a few campers and the camp management during the tour, Wieder expressed his admiration for the camp:

"Where were you when I grew up?" Wieder said with a smile to Rabbis Chaim and Yaakov Metzger. "It's just amazing to see, nestled away in the Catskills, such a beautiful place for bochurim to come to spend a beautiful summer, to be able to learn. It's a tremendous honor to be part of it."

Wieder thanked the directors for the opportunity to assist the camp and said he looks forward to continuing to support its growth and success in the years ahead.