A total of 103 House Democrats voted in favor of a measure on Thursday that would have reduced U.S. aid to Israel.

Shortly afterward, lawmakers considered a separate proposal to cut U.S. assistance to Jordan. None of the 103 Democrats who supported the Israel measure voted in favor of reducing aid to Jordan.

Critics of the votes argued that the differing outcomes undermine claims that the effort was driven by a broader opposition to foreign aid or U.S. involvement overseas. Instead, they contend the focus was specifically on Israel, the world’s only Jewish state.

Supporters of the Israel aid proposal, however, have generally argued that their position reflects concerns over U.S. policy toward Israel and the ongoing conflict in Gaza, rather than opposition to Israel’s existence or support for other foreign aid programs.

Rabbi Trump speaking at the Amen Group in Lawrence.

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A new report from State Comptroller Tom DiNapoli shows that New York is now spending more on Medicaid than on its K-12 public school system, despite already leading the nation in both Medicaid spending per resident and education spending per student.

For the 2025-26 fiscal year, the state allocated $39.4 billion to Medicaid—about 26.5% of the state budget—compared with $37 billion for K-12 education. According to the report, Medicaid costs have more than doubled over the past decade and have now overtaken School Aid as one of the state’s largest expenditures.

The findings come as the federal government reviews Gov. Kathy Hochul’s Medicaid program for potential waste, fraud, and abuse, including concerns involving adult day care centers serving seniors in New York City. Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) Administrator Dr. Mehmet Oz has argued that reducing improper Medicaid spending could help free up funding for priorities such as education.

Looking ahead, DiNapoli’s analysis of New York’s $269 billion budget for fiscal year 2026-27 projects Medicaid spending will climb to $53.3 billion within the next three years, accounting for approximately 29% of total state spending. During that same period, School Aid is expected to increase to $43.7 billion, or 23.8% of the budget, leaving Medicaid nearly $10 billion higher than education spending. Combined, the two programs are projected to consume well over half of the state’s budget.

The report also forecasts Medicaid costs rising by another $5 billion, driven in part by increased emergency care for uninsured patients. Enrollment is expected to grow from 6.6 million to 7.2 million people as individuals transition out of the Essential Plan.

Hochul’s administration said the rising costs are being fueled by higher wages for healthcare workers, increasing prices for medical care and prescription drugs, larger reimbursement rates for hospitals and nursing homes, and growing demand from aging and other high-need populations.

DiNapoli’s report also highlighted the financial challenges facing New York’s healthcare system. It found that 75 of the state’s 261 hospitals—nearly 29%—are now considered financially distressed, a figure that has tripled over the past decade. As a result, state and federal financial assistance to struggling hospitals has increased dramatically, prompting lawmakers to include $500 million in one-time relief funding in the latest state budget.

The comptroller warned that Medicaid spending continues to outpace the state’s self-imposed spending cap while health-related tax revenues are declining, raising concerns about the long-term sustainability of the program and the difficult fiscal decisions New York may face in the years ahead.

The New York City Council voted 42-6 on Thursday to significantly increase the salaries of city elected officials, approving an 18% raise for council members and boosting the mayor’s annual pay. The increases are retroactive to January, when the current terms began.

Several lawmakers opposed the measure, including Republicans and a handful of conservative Democrats. Councilman Phil Wong of Queens argued that approving raises for elected officials is difficult to justify while many New Yorkers continue to face financial hardship.

The vote comes shortly after the Council adopted a record-breaking $126 billion city budget and follows an unsuccessful effort last year to pass a smaller 16% pay increase. The proposal was revived by Councilwoman Nantasha Williams with recommendations from the city’s three-member Quadrennial Commission.

In June, the commission recommended a 18.2% salary increase, pointing to inflation and the erosion of officials’ purchasing power over time. It also proposed automatic annual raises of at least 2%, but the Council removed that provision from the final legislation. Instead, the commission will now review compensation every three years.

Under the approved plan, salaries will increase as follows:

• Mayor: $258,750 → $305,800
• City Council members: $148,500 → $175,500
• Council Speaker: $164,500 → $194,400

Council Speaker Julie Menin abstained from the vote, saying she would decline the raise herself. She also criticized Mayor Zohran Mamdani’s administration, arguing that it has not done enough to secure higher pay for EMS personnel and FDNY members.

Mamdani, who campaigned on making New York more affordable, said he also plans to forgo the salary increase, stating that he would prefer the funds be directed toward residents in need.

“I haven’t knocked on anyone’s door in New York City and had them tell me the mayor’s salary is too low,” Mamdani said.

By 5 Towns Central Staff

Lawrence, NY (July 16, 2026) — Local safety advocates and community leaders are urging families to implement immediate preventative measures following a heartbreaking tragedy on the East Coast. According to reports, an infant recently lost their life after being accidentally left inside a vehicle during a period of extreme summer heat. The devastating event serves as a stark reminder of how rapidly internal vehicle temperatures can escalate to lethal levels, putting vulnerable children at extreme risk within minutes.

Experts emphasize that these types of incidents can happen to any caregiver, often triggered by a sudden change in daily routine, fatigue, or simple distraction. Because young children are unable to regulate their body temperature as efficiently as adults, the consequences of a momentary oversight can be catastrophic.

In response to the tragedy, community members are being asked to establish a strict, multi-layered safety protocol to protect children. Parents and caregivers are heavily encouraged to adopt a reliable “look before you lock” habit every single time they park. Recommended strategies include placing a vital personal item, such as a cellphone, briefcase, or a single shoe, in the backseat next to the child’s car seat. This physical adjustment forces the driver to open the rear door and check the space before walking away from the vehicle.

Additionally, safety advocates emphasize the critical role of external check-ins. Carpools, preschool teachers, and daycare providers are asked to play an active part in this network. If a child does not arrive at their scheduled time, coordinators should immediately contact the parents to verify their safety and whereabouts. Investing in secondary aftermarket sensors or digital detection tools can also offer an extra layer of protection. By establishing these cooperative routines, the community can work together to prevent future heartbreaks.

We hope and we daven that klal Yisrael should never experience such tragedies, may the family have a tremendous Nechama, and we see the coming of Mashiach speedily in our days.

By 5 Towns Central Staff

Lawrence, NY (July 16, 2026) — Local safety advocates and community leaders are urging families to implement immediate preventative measures following a heartbreaking tragedy on the East Coast. According to reports, an infant recently lost their life after being accidentally left inside a vehicle during a period of extreme summer heat. The devastating event serves as a stark reminder of how rapidly internal vehicle temperatures can escalate to lethal levels, putting vulnerable children at extreme risk within minutes.

Experts emphasize that these types of incidents can happen to any caregiver, often triggered by a sudden change in daily routine, fatigue, or simple distraction. Because young children are unable to regulate their body temperature as efficiently as adults, the consequences of a momentary oversight can be catastrophic.

In response to the tragedy, community members are being asked to establish a strict, multi-layered safety protocol to protect children. Parents and caregivers are heavily encouraged to adopt a reliable “look before you lock” habit every single time they park. Recommended strategies include placing a vital personal item, such as a cellphone, briefcase, or a single shoe, in the backseat next to the child’s car seat. This physical adjustment forces the driver to open the rear door and check the space before walking away from the vehicle.

Additionally, safety advocates emphasize the critical role of external check-ins. Carpools, preschool teachers, and daycare providers are asked to play an active part in this network. If a child does not arrive at their scheduled time, coordinators should immediately contact the parents to verify their safety and whereabouts. Investing in secondary aftermarket sensors or digital detection tools can also offer an extra layer of protection. By establishing these cooperative routines, the community can work together to prevent future heartbreaks.

We hope and we daven that klal Yisrael should never experience such tragedies, may the family have a tremendous Nechama, and we see the coming of Mashiach speedily in our days.

By 5 Towns Central Staff

LAWRENCE, N.Y. (July 16, 2026) — Municipal authorities have significantly expanded a regional safety initiative to distribute high-grade protective face coverings to the public as dense smoke from out-of-control Canadian wildfires blankets the metropolitan area. The emergency strategy aims to safeguard residents from deteriorating environmental conditions that are currently impacting the tri-state area.

Under the broadened program, the city has coordinated with major local institutions to offer complimentary KN95 masks at hundreds of convenient community access points. These distribution hubs now include every local branch of the public library networks across the region, ensuring that neighborhood residents can easily acquire protection close to home.

Beyond the extensive network of neighborhood libraries, officials have established pickup locations at municipal service facilities citywide. Residents can secure masks by visiting local police precincts, designated firehouses, and major public transportation hubs. Several distinct municipal agencies, including those focused on regional transit and senior care services, are also managing supply allocations to ensure that vulnerable demographics are reached effectively.

The massive containment drive arrives as regional air quality indices continue to drop into ranges deemed hazardous for prolonged exposure, particularly when paired with a concurrent summer heat wave. Health coordinators are strongly advising the public, especially senior citizens, children, and individuals managing chronic respiratory or cardiovascular conditions, to limit non-essential outdoor travel. Emergency personnel recommend utilizing these high-quality filtration masks for any necessary outdoor activities while keeping residential windows sealed and using air conditioning systems on recirculating settings to maintain clean indoor air.

KN95 masks are available at public library branches across all five boroughs to protect the health of New Yorkers, especially those at greatest risk from wildfire smoke.

Pick one up at:⁰ Brooklyn Public Library locations⁰ Queens Public Library locations⁰ St. George…

— NYC Emergency Management (@nycemergencymgt) July 14, 2026

By 5 Towns Central Staff

LAWRENCE, N.Y. (July 16, 2026) — According to a newly released housing report, The Mamdani administration is proposing sweeping adjustments to how private landlords screen potential tenants. The policy proposal, which stems from a series of regional housing summits, aims to ease the high financial barriers encountered by local apartment seekers in a highly competitive market.

Under the newly unveiled framework, property owners would be legally barred from demanding both standard proof of income and a full credit check from a single applicant. Instead, the administration intends to advance legislation requiring housing providers or their brokers to choose just one of the two traditional screening methods. Furthermore, the guidelines dictate that if a landlord selects a credit evaluation, they must absorb the associated administrative costs rather than passing those application fees onto the renter.

Advocates argue the measure provides vital relief to lower-income families, individuals with limited credit backgrounds, and voucher holders who possess sufficient funds but face systemic exclusion due to rigid dual-screening metrics. By streamlining requirements, proponents believe the market will become fairer and more accessible for everyday consumers.

However, the proposal has drawn immediate concern from regional real estate groups and independent property owners. Critics contend that credit histories and income verification serve entirely different and equally critical functions in evaluating prospective tenants. Opponents warn that while an applicant may show adequate current employment earnings, a credit report remains the primary tool for identifying long-term financial irresponsibility, past payment delinquencies, or recurring employment gaps. Industry analysts caution that limiting a housing provider’s ability to thoroughly vet financial risk could ultimately lead to increased litigation, higher delinquency rates, and unintended upward pressure on overall market rental prices.

“There’s a lot of noise about this influencer who came to Israel this week.

People are arguing about whether bringing him here was a Kiddush Hashem or a terrible mistake. Others are saying, “It’s the Three Weeks. Let’s stop tearing each other apart.”

And they’re right. If we’re going to disagree, it has to be with love. It has to be l’shem Shamayim.

But I think there’s a deeper question here.

This visit has made people ask how we can reach Gen Z and get them to fall in love with Israel?

But maybe before we ask how to show them who we are, we have to ask if we know who we are ourselves.

What exactly are we trying to convince them of?

Many people this week have suggested we show the world how cool we are. “We have amazing beaches and parties here too!”.

But the world isn’t starving for another place that celebrates pleasure. It’s drowning in it.

The question is whether we have the courage to offer something no one else is capable of offering: a reason to live that doesn’t disappear when the music stops.

Because I don’t think this generation has become obsessed with pleasure because pleasure is so satisfying.

I think it’s because meaning has become so elusive.

We keep asking how to market Israel to this generation. Maybe the Ribbono Shel Olam didn’t bring us back to our land to become better marketers.

Maybe He brought us back because humanity is exhausted from a life that has no destination. A world without destiny eventually settles for pleasure. A world without eternity settles for the immediate.

That’s not because people are shallow. It’s because the soul cannot survive on consumption alone.

That’s what it means to be an אור לגויים.

Not to imitate a culture that’s lost its way, but to have the courage to live differently. To remind the world that life has a direction. That a human being has a soul. That history is going somewhere. That every one of us is here for something infinitely greater than the next fleeting moment.

Maybe the greatest hasbara has never been convincing the world that we’re like everyone else.

Maybe it’s becoming who we’re supposed to be.

Have a beautiful Shabbos”

Yesterday, the U. S. House of Representatives passed the Sunshine Protection Act by a majority of 308-117. We were disappointed, but not surprised by the outcome, yet we aren’t giving up.

If enacted, it would make daylight saving time permanent across the country. Agudath Israel of America has been expressing its concerns for decades that permanent DST will put children at risk and have a disastrous effect on shuls and individuals trying to daven with a minyan before work.

Permanent DST would mean sunrises after 9 am in some parts of the country and after 8 am in most cities in the winter thereby causing many of America’s schoolchildren to head for school in the pre-sunrise darkness and putting them at increased risk.

For the Orthodox Jewish community, the later sunrise occurs; the later davening must begin. It would be extraordinarily difficult – if not impossible – to arrive on time for a job and may affect the start time of our schools.

Please ask your senator to consider all of the effects of DST and compare them to the effects of permanent standard time or maintaining the status quo before rushing into this major change.

Click here to take action now.

By: Rabbi Shraga Freedman

Rabbi Moshe Tuvia Lieff shared the following remarkable story that took place a number of years ago, yet its message is especially relevant today.

The residents of Ezras Torah neighborhood in Yerushalayim were deeply disturbed by a man who deliberately disrupted the sanctity of their Shabbos. Week after week, the same car would drive through the neighborhood in circles for the sole purpose of provoking the Shabbos-observant residents.

Some people responded by protesting and shouting at the driver, but Rabbi Hershel Zaks chose a different approach.

One Shabbos, he memorized the car’s license plate number. After Shabbos, he was able to locate the owner’s address in the Ramot neighborhood. Accompanied by a friend, Rabbi Zaks traveled to the man’s home and knocked on the door.

A young boy answered. Looking at the two visitors dressed in black, he called into the house, “HaShechorim higi’u!—The black ones are here!”

From inside, his father shouted back, “Give them a shekel!”

“We’re not here for money,” Rabbi Zaks gently replied. “We’d like to speak with your father.”

A few moments later, the man came to the door.

“What do you want from me?” he asked.

With warmth, respect, and genuine concern, Rabbi Zaks explained how painful it was for the residents of Ezras Torah to have someone deliberately drive through their neighborhood on Shabbos.

The man listened and then replied, “You’re crazy… but you’re right. I won’t drive through your neighborhood anymore.”

About a year and a half later, Rabbi Zaks received an invitation to the man’s son’s bar mitzvah, along with a note saying that it would mean a great deal if he attended.

When Rabbi Zaks arrived at the simchah, the father greeted him warmly.

“About two years ago, you came to my door and asked me not to drive through Ezras Torah on Shabbos,” he said. “Today after a long journey and soul searching, I am shomer Shabbos, because you cared enough to come to my home and speak to me with such respect.

“I sent my son to a religious school because I want him to grow up to be like you—someone who cares enough about another Jew to reach out with dignity, kindness, and understanding.”

(Adapted from the Foreword by Rabbi Moshe Tuvia Lieff to A Life Worth Living ArtScroll/Mesorah).

As we enter the Nine Days, this story reminds us that our greatest tool for overcoming conflict is to reflect the middos and ne’imus that the Torah expects of us in our interactions with one another.

Every act of understanding, every respectful conversation, and every display of genuine care strengthens ahavas Yisrael and helps replace sinas chinam with ahavas chinam. This is how we help bring about the rebuilding of the Beis Hamikdash and increase kavod shamayim.

—
Living Kiddush Hashem was founded with the goal of imbuing every Jew with a powerful sense of mission — the mission to be mekadeish Sheim Shamayim in his or her own unique way. We strive to accomplish this by raising awareness of the paramount importance of the mitzvah of kiddush Hashem and its centrality in everything we do.

What if the same eyes that keep us safe at the airport can quietly make us dangerous everywhere else? The same technology and attitude that make us feel safe can also subtly shape the way we see the world. We stand in line, place our bags on conveyor belts, and walk through machines designed to detect what might be hidden and dangerous. Security personnel are trained to look carefully and critically, notice inconsistencies, and assume that something may be wrong until proven otherwise.

At an airport, that mindset and approach are critically important. It protects people and prevents danger. But if we leave the airport and continue to look at people and life that way, it doesn’t protect; it destroys. When we begin to approach people as if they are passing through our security, when we scan their words for problems, look for inconsistencies, and collect evidence against them, we aren’t safer. Instead, we, and our relationships, are in danger.

The Torah teaches us that the way we see determines the way we live. The Arizal taught that every Hebrew month corresponds to a different part of the human body. The Bnei Yissaschar explains that the months of Tammuz and Av correspond to the right and left eyes, but what does that mean?

As Moshe begins his final message to the Jewish people in Sefer Devarim, he reviews their history and reminds them of the episode of the spies. He says: “You all approached me and said, ‘Let us send men ahead of us to investigate the land.’” Yet this seems to contradict the way the Torah describes the story in Parshas Shelach. There, Hashem tells Moshe: “Send men.” So who initiated the mission? Was it the people, or was it Hashem?

The Ramban explains that there is no contradiction. The people first requested that spies be sent. Moshe agreed with the idea, and Hashem then gave His approval and established the proper guidelines. Sefer Devarim describes the beginning of the process, while Parshas Shelach describes Hashem’s authorization.

The Malbim, however, notices something even deeper. He points out that the Torah itself uses different words to describe the mission. In Sefer Devarim, the people ask that the spies should “וְיַחְפְּרוּ לָנוּ אֶת הָאָרֶץ” dig into the land. Later, they are described as “וַיְרַגְּלוּ אֹתָהּ” spying on it. But when Hashem commands Moshe in Parshas Shelach, the Torah repeatedly uses a different expression: “לָתוּר אֶת הָאָרֶץ” to tour the land.

The Malbim explains that these were not simply different ways of describing the same assignment. They represented two fundamentally different approaches. Hashem wanted tourists. The people became spies. Hashem had already promised that Eretz Yisrael was a good land. He did not need an intelligence report. He did not need them to uncover weaknesses in His plan. He wanted them to tour the land, experience its beauty, appreciate its blessings, and return inspired.

But the people changed the mission. Instead of touring, they dug. Instead of searching for beauty, they searched for problems. Instead of asking, “How can we appreciate this gift?” they asked, “Why will this fail?” They were sent to see the good, but instead, they chose to find the bad.

This distinction is one of the most important lessons of Tammuz and Av because every one of us chooses, every day, which eyes we will use. Will we look at the world like tourists or like spies? A tourist enters a new place and looks around with wonder. They notice beauty, appreciate details, and are curious. They want to listen, learn, and remember the moments that inspired them.

A spy enters the same place looking for vulnerabilities. They search for what is wrong, what is dangerous, and what confirms the suspicions they already had. The difference is not what they see; it is what they are looking for. And this applies most of all to the way we see other people.

Too often, we become spies in our relationships, looking for and noticing flaws, failures, and mistakes. We become experts at collecting evidence about what someone else is doing wrong.

But what if we approached people instead as tourists? What if we looked for what is beautiful in others? What if we looked for what others did right, the best part of who they are, the good in them, and what we have in common? What if we became curious about another person’s story before we became critical of their behavior?

Last year, I read a wonderful book, The Next Conversation: Argue Less, Talk More by Jefferson Fisher. He describes that many people enter conversations with the goal of winning. It could be an argument between a husband and wife, a business negotiation, or a debate with a friend, but the common theme is that we want to win. Instead of trying to win, he writes, we should seek to connect. The book is filled with strategies and language that empower connection.

One of them that really spoke to me is curiosity. He suggests that we approach every conversation with something to learn, not something to prove. Turn your mind from outward to inward and keep your analytical side engaged. Ask yourself questions like: Where is this coming from? What is driving them to say this? What experiences shaped their perspective? What information am I missing? Get in the habit of becoming curious about the source of the request or statement. Curiosity is the antidote to defensiveness. When you’re genuinely curious about someone’s perspective, they feel safe to share it. This creates the foundation for real dialogue, and connection becomes possible.

Chazal teach that the second Beis HaMikdash was destroyed because of sinas chinam, baseless hatred. Hatred does not usually begin with hatred; it begins with the way we see. It begins when we assume motives instead of asking questions and when we interpret instead of understand. It begins when we look at another Jew through the eyes of a spy.

On Tishah B’Av itself, we are not permitted to exchange greetings. She’eilas shalom, saying hello to others, is prohibited. For twenty-five hours, we experience a world where connection and warmth are not only diminished. We feel, even in a small way, what it means to live without the simple human acknowledgment of “hello.”

But before Tishah B’Av arrives, perhaps our responsibility is the opposite. This is the week to greet, to connect, to see people, and to see the best in people. Choose one person you do not usually speak to. Ask them a genuine question and listen to their answer. Become curious about their life.

Don’t approach others as a spy; be a tourist of their lives and of who they are. Look for the beauty and goodness and for what you have in common. Every authentic conversation, every moment of sincere curiosity, every time we choose connection over suspicion is another brick in rebuilding what was destroyed.

This Shabbos is called Shabbos Chazon, the Shabbos of Vision. If we want to see the future redemption, we need to change the way we see today.

By 5 Towns Central Staff

WASHINGTON (July 16, 2026) — According to reports from a national political summit, Senator John Fetterman has issued a stark warning regarding the shifting ideological direction of his political party, specifically concerning its traditional alliance with Israel. The Pennsylvania lawmaker emphasized that maintaining strong support for the Middle Eastern ally is an issue of clear ethical necessity, signaling that a definitive institutional turn against the nation would represent a breaking point for his continued membership in the party.

During a panel discussion, Senator John Fetterman expressed deep concern that external pressures from a progressive base are driving lawmakers away from long-standing foreign policy commitments. He highlighted a recent legislative push in the House of Representatives aimed at stripping billions in security aid as a primary indicator of this growing trend. He noted that some colleagues appear to be adjusting their policy stances to appeal to increasingly critical factions within the voting public.

The discussion also touched upon high-stakes regional races, with Senator John Fetterman cautioning that nominating candidates aligned with far-left platforms could severely damage the party’s electoral prospects. He specifically noted that upcoming primary contests in states like Michigan could force national organizations to redirect millions of dollars to keep battleground seats competitive if candidates with controversial platforms on local policing and foreign policy advance. Furthermore, he critiqued several progressive candidates in the New York area, arguing that platforms advocating for the complete dismantling of law enforcement and border controls repeat strategic missteps that previously harmed the party nationally.

Reports indicate that Senator John Fetterman has been privately approached by members of the opposition party regarding a potential political defection, though he declined to elaborate on those private discussions. He concluded by criticizing past candidate endorsements by prominent colleagues, arguing that a lack of scrutiny over problematic backgrounds and controversial statements has ultimately hindered the party’s ability to secure legislative majorities.

Democrat Senator John Fetterman calls out his party for embracing communists:

"They’ve self-identified as communists. I’m not sure why there’s not more outrage within the party and they will refuse to acknowledge.” pic.twitter.com/4TLCwudTk1

— RNC Research (@RNCResearch) July 15, 2026

Sen. Fetterman just drew his red line: “If the party ever becomes… the anti-Israel party… that’s when I would leave.”
How long do you give him before he’s out of the Democratic Party? pic.twitter.com/8Ov0hXeHqN

— Trisha Posner (@trishaposner) July 16, 2026

By Moshe Phillips

Moshe Phillips is national chairman of Americans For A Safe Israel, AFSI, (www.AFSI.org), a leading pro-Israel advocacy and education organization.

It is summer once again, and anti-Zionist politicians in the UK have started another unfair attack against Jewish families and communities in Judea and Samaria. Recently, a debate in the UK Parliament focused on a dangerous proposal to make it a crime to buy land in Judea and Samaria. Supporters of this idea argued that the settlements are illegal under international law. Thankfully, several opponents in the legislature rightly challenged the proposal, pointing out that it is completely discriminatory and inconsistent.

Baroness Jennifer Chapman shockingly called for criminalizing these property transactions, repeating the old line that the settlements are illegal. Rightfully, Lord Martin John Callanan of the Conservative Party strongly opposed this nonsense. He argued that Britain does not apply similar criminal penalties to property purchases in other disputed territories around the world. He questioned why the Judea-Samaria (what far too many UK politicians painfully label as the “West Bank”) should be singled out, especially when such a measure could extend to Area C, which remains under full Israeli control under the Oslo Accords. He warned that this unfair law would even criminalize British Jews for purchasing a home in the Jewish Quarter of the Old City of Jerusalem. Callanan also argued that territorial disputes should be handled through international law between states, rather than through domestic criminal law aimed at individual buyers.

Lord Stuart Polak, another Conservative, criticized what he described as a massive double standard. He agreed with strong comments made earlier by Baroness Helic and Baroness Deech, questioning why similar restrictions were not being considered for British citizens purchasing property in Northern Cyprus which Turkey occupies illegally. Polak warned that the proposal would promote the anti-Semitic idea that Judea and Samaria—an area that remained under Israeli administration throughout the Oslo Accords—should be ethnically cleansed of its Jews. Baroness Deech also questioned the proposal, asking why British citizens who holiday or buy property in Northern Cyprus face no penalties. She asked plainly: “Or is the aim simply to target Jews? If this were implemented, in what way could it possibly contribute to lasting peace?”

This is part of a frustrating summer pattern.

In May 2025 David Lammy, the British Foreign Secretary, stated: “The sanctioning of Daniella Weiss and others today demonstrates our determination to hold extremist settlers to account as Palestinian communities suffer violence and intimidation at the hands of extremist settlers.”

Oren Marmorstein, spokesperson for Israel’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, called the sanctions “unjustified and regrettable.”

But that’s not the point here. Ever since 1968—when a group of young Jewish families moved into a hotel in Hebron—there has been consistent opposition to Jews making homes in areas Israel took control of after its victory in the Six-Day War. From the very beginning, settlers have been a target for demonization.

Daniella Weiss is not the monster the British depicted her as. A strictly Orthodox woman, Weiss is the former mayor of the community of Kedumim. No one can deny that Weiss has been a force in building, sustaining, and protecting Jewish communities in the West Bank. But if she were guilty of violent acts herself, why didn’t Lammy say so?

And then in June 2025, Lammy joined the foreign ministers of Australia, Canada, New Zealand, Norway, and others in announcing sanctions specifically targeting two Israeli cabinet members that are well known for championing the rights of Jewish families in Judea and Samaria. That action was entirely wrong and morally bankrupt. Secretary of State Marco Rubio said in response that the U.S. “condemns the sanctions” and “urges the reversal of the sanctions.” Rubio was right.

Mahmoud Abbas and his Palestinian Authority (PA) have promoted hatred against everyday Israelis for decades in textbooks and state-sponsored media. The 2025 accusations against the elected Israeli leaders represented a terrible double standard. It was shameful that the foreign ministers chose to condemn Jewish families for living in historically Jewish areas, and attempted to dictate to Israelis how to protect their nation’s future.

The UK and other foreign ministers wrote that they “are steadfastly committed to the two-state solution.” Yet, Israeli President Isaac Herzog, speaking at the World Economic Forum in Davos, said: “The idea of the two-state solution is something which, on record, I supported in the past, many times. But I had a wake-up call following October 7.” Polls in Israel have shown for several years now that over two-thirds of Israelis support extending Israeli sovereignty over these territories including a poll that the New York Post reported on in its July 12 issue that just 22% of Israelis support the so-called “two state solution.”

It is wrong for any foreign officials to unilaterally declare where Jews can and cannot build homes for their families. Both Itamar Ben-Gvir and Bezalel Smotrich were receiving death threats from Palestinian Arab terrorist groups that year. The fact that the foreign ministers decided to sanction Israelis was completely unjust. Secretary Rubio was right when he stated, “We remind our partners not to forget who the real enemy is,” on the very same day the sanctions were announced.

Looking back even further, at the end of summer 2024, the British government attacked Jewish life in Judea and Samaria yet again. In an official statement at the UN Security Council, they declared that “the expansion of Israeli settlements in the West Bank is wholly unacceptable and illegal.”

Three years of these constant attacks is enough. It is past time for these extremist British politicians to accept the fact that Jews have a right to live in their ancestral lands. Do these British politicians really object to the idea of Jewish families living in areas where ancient Jewish history is everywhere? The city of Hebron is in Judea and is the ancient resting place of Abraham and Sarah, Isaac and Rebecca, and Jacob and Leah; this proves the Jewish heritage of the region. Would UK politicians force hundreds of thousands of young Jews out of their homes? Isn’t that the very definition of the “ethnic cleansing” they claim to oppose?

What’s more, the Israeli presence in these communities is permitted by the Oslo Accords. This is not to say that Israel’s right to the area is based only on agreements made in Oslo; it is based on more than 3,000 years of continuous Jewish history and many centuries of Jewish national sovereignty—as well as international law and the Bible. Regardless, the fact remains that the Palestinian Authority explicitly agreed to the presence of these settlement communities.

Sandra Hagee Parker, an attorney, author, and chairwoman for the CUFI Action Fund, which is related to the one of the largest pro-Israel organizations in the United States, Christians United for Israel (CUFI), has said “From Genesis to Revelation, the Bible is a Zionist document.” Sandra Hagee Parker, is right and too many of the UK’s politicians are wrong. Very wrong.

By 5 Towns Central Staff

LAWRENCE, N.Y. (July 15, 2026) — Environmental and weather agencies have issued air quality health alerts across Long Island and the greater New York metropolitan area as heavy smoke from Canadian wildfires blankets the region. While initial weather patterns kept the haze higher in the atmosphere, shifting winds have begun pulling a thick layer of fine particulate pollution down to ground level.

Atmospheric conditions are funneling dense plumes from large blazes burning in Ontario directly into the northeastern United States. Local air quality measurements have crossed into levels deemed unhealthy for sensitive populations, creating a heightened risk for the general public and particularly vulnerable community members.

Health officials are advising residents throughout Nassau County and neighboring boroughs to take immediate precautions. The small particulate matter present in the air can easily travel deep into the lungs, causing immediate side effects such as coughing, eye and throat irritation, and shortness of breath. This drop in air quality is particularly hazardous for elderly residents, young children, and anyone suffering from pre-existing medical conditions like asthma or cardiovascular disease.

Compounding the problem, the incoming smoke coincides with a severe summer heat wave hitting the tri-state region, which elevates the physical strain on the body. Families are strongly encouraged to limit prolonged outdoor exposure and avoid strenuous physical activities outside until conditions improve.

Emergency management guidelines suggest keeping home windows tightly sealed and utilizing indoor air conditioning units on a recirculation setting to prevent pulling smoky outdoor air inside. Residents are also reminded to look out for elderly neighbors and vulnerable individuals to ensure they have access to cool, filtered indoor spaces. Regional monitoring agencies expect the haze to linger through the middle of the week as regional weather patterns slowly shift.

Air quality has reached unhealthy levels in parts of NYC due to smoke from Canadian wildfires moving through the city.

Poor air quality affects everyone, but some people are more sensitive to it than others, including people with heart or lung conditions, older adults, pregnant…

— Mayor Zohran Kwame Mamdani (@NYCMayor) July 15, 2026

Smoke from Canadian wildfires are impacting NYC. Some areas have already seen unhealthy levels and could worsen as smoke continues to move into the area. At the same time, dangerous heat continues across the city. If you do not have air conditioning, go to a cooling center.… pic.twitter.com/13z261465P

— NYC Emergency Management (@nycemergencymgt) July 15, 2026

By: Rabbi Dr. Josh Joseph, Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer

By now, I imagine many of you have heard of the tragic and inspiring story of Charlotte Herzberg. On June 2, Yudi Herzberg was picking his son up from school when he received a call from his wife. She was frantic, she could hardly speak, something about their daughter being hit by a car. Yudi raced home and found his eight-year-old daughter, Charlotte, on the street surrounded by members of Hatzalah.

He immediately noticed his dear friend and chavrusa, who was also a member of Hatzalah, on the scene. Knowing that his friend was there meant that his daughter would receive the best possible care and that gave him a small sense of comfort. Only then, Yudi noticed something was wrong. His friend was looking away from him and at his car; avoiding eye contact. And then it clicked. The car on the street right next to Charlotte’s motionless body belonged to his best friend.

Hatzalah whisked his daughter away and sped to the nearest emergency room. They worked on her for over 40 minutes, but tragically, Charlotte would not make it. What is not as well-known is what Yudi shared at the funeral. Yudi, in a soft, broken voice, spoke about his precious daughter, her smile, her energy. He thanked the many people who tried to help her. And then he acknowledged the elephant in the room. “I’ve been wondering to myself,” he said, “how this could have happened. Not just the tragic death of my daughter. But how could it be that my closest friend, my chavrusa, the person I speak to whenever I need advice, could have caused this?”

“The only answer I could think of,” he continued with a crack in his voice, “is this. There was a conversation up in heaven. G-d was boasting about how peaceful our community is, how much shalom there is between neighbors, how different types of Jews could all get along. And the Satan came along and said, ‘Big deal. The only reason there is shalom is because they’ve never been tested.’ And Hashem gave the Satan permission to test us. This is the only plausible reason I could come up with.”

And then Yudi’s voice rose. “Satan,” Yudi said, “you underestimated us! We will not fall for your trap! We will not point fingers! We will not spread stories! We will not allow this terrible incident to rip us apart! We will double down in how loving we are with one another! I bear no grudge against my friend; he is still my best friend! And I ask you,” he concluded, “to join me in bringing more shalom to the world.”

I can’t help but wonder if Yudi is actually touching on a much broader phenomenon. Perhaps after October 7th, G-d was proud of how unified the Jewish People were, how we all came together as one family, across religious divides, across continents. I can’t help but wonder if the Satan was given permission to test us, in Israel and all over the world, to see if we could really hold it together. Can there be another explanation for the great divisiveness we have seen in the streets, highways, and courtrooms of Israel these past months? Is this not the act of the Satan trying to prove to G-d that the brotherhood on full display right after October 7th was a blip?

The divide in Israel is real, and it is complex. I do not have the audacity to weigh in on the particulars, but I am reminded of the chilling words of Rav Naftali Tzvi Yehuda Berlin who described the lead-up to the Churban. He questions the seeming contradiction between our Sages describing that generation as righteous and immersed in Torah study with statements that describe them as full of hate for one another, even leading to bloodshed. The Netziv suggests that they were indeed fully observant and even righteous. However, “they suspected anyone who was not religious in accordance with their viewpoint to be a heretic.”

Do we not grapple with the same challenge? Are we not a righteous generation, learning more Torah, performing more chesed, living according to halacha like never before? And yet, we so quickly condemn those who do not share our religious viewpoint as being entirely wrong and worthy of hate.

As the Yerushalmi (Yoma, 1:1) states, “Any generation in which the Beis Hamikdash is not rebuilt, is as if they destroyed it.” We are not suffering the impact of our forefathers’ sins, I fear we are perpetuating them. As Mark Twain is quoted to have said, “History does not necessarily repeat itself; but it does rhyme.”

In the wake of the death of their child, the Herzberg family launched a campaign called Shalom for Charlotte. They are asking people to commit to one act of shalom. Stop waiting for your friend to apologize and take the first step yourself. Call the sibling you haven’t spoken to in years. Take some time to better understand a fellow Jew who has an opinion you believe to be wrong. Specifically at this time of Bein Hametzarim, when we remember that the Beis Hamikdash was destroyed due to sinas chinam, baseless hatred of our fellow Jews, this is the time to commit ourselves to making peace. To loving each other, despite our differences, disagreements, and intractable, unanswerable challenges. Yes, we must diminish our joy during the month of Av, but perhaps we can still be marbim b’shalom.

I invite you to join me in participating in this campaign, a tribute to a precious girl, that has the capability of bringing an end to all of our suffering. Click here to take the pledge.

Our generation has so much going for it. We are so close to the end. Let’s prove the Satan wrong by doing our part and becoming the generation that finally brings the geulah.

By 5 Towns Central Staff

WASHINGTON, D.C. (July 15, 2026) — A recent legislative vote in the House of Representatives has signaled a notable shift in party dynamics regarding international defense funding, as a significant portion of congressional Democrats voted in favor of an amendment aimed at reducing multi-billion-dollar military assistance to Israel. Though the measure ultimately failed to pass due to widespread opposition from the Republican majority, the high level of minority support marks a substantial increase compared to similar legislative efforts in recent years.

The proposed funding reduction was defeated by a wide margin in the final tally, but the voting patterns revealed deep strategic divisions within the minority leadership. Several high-profile party veterans and prominent caucus organizers broke ranks with their top leadership to support the amendment. This internal division underscored the challenges facing party whips who have traditionally maintained a unified stance in favor of long-standing foreign aid commitments.

Political analysts suggest that the changing voting behavior reflects broader shifts within the party’s base, following recent primary election cycles that elevated new legislative voices with distinct perspectives on foreign policy and humanitarian issues. Some party leaders acknowledged following the session that the outcome may point toward a gradual transition in how future international aid packages are debated and evaluated on the house floor.

The debate arrives amid heightened discussion over the long-term direction of foreign policy and the traditional alliances that have shaped regional security strategies for decades. While traditional advocates continue to emphasize the strategic and historical importance of foreign partnerships, an increasing number of lawmakers are facing pressure to reexamine international spending priorities. The final voting record underscores a growing policy debate that is expected to influence upcoming legislative sessions as lawmakers navigate differing regional and national priorities ahead of the next legislative cycle.

Today, the House of Representatives voted to fully fund $3.3 billion in lifesaving security assistance to Israel, overcoming a dangerous amendment that would have stripped all the resources for Israel from the NSRP appropriations bill. We are deeply appreciative of the 314… pic.twitter.com/sR67MipLfP

— AIPAC (@AIPAC) July 15, 2026

5TC received the following heartfelt email from David Blatt of the New York Blood Center to the Sephardic Center:

David Blatt: “Good morning Avi,

Thank you for everything you did to make the Sephardic Congregation of the Five Towns July 13th blood drive an overwhelming success and with a brief window to recruit Donors. At your blood drive, 41 donors attempted to donate, resulting in 43 lifesaving blood donations. A special thank you to the 5 ‘Alyx’ Double Red Blood Cell Donors whose donation counted as two units towards the result. Of the 41 registered Donors, 16 made either their first lifetime blood donation or their first with New York Blood Center. New Donors are critical to the future of blood donation. I find it remarkable to convince new Donors to roll up their sleeves. This reflects your advocacy for blood donation. Thank you! The Donors at the Sephardic Congregation of the Five Towns on July 13th blood drive benefitted 129 patients in need. This is an accomplishment everyone can be proud of.

Thank you again for hosting your blood drive on July 13, 2026. We only meet our mission thanks to thousands of dedicated blood drive sponsors and your loyal blood donors.

Sephardic Congregation of the Five Towns
July 13, 2026, Results
Registered Donors – 41
Deferred Donors – 3
Whole Blood Donations – 32
‘Alyx’ Double Red Cell Donations (x2) – 5(10)
Plasma Donations – 1
Total Donations & Lives Benefited (x3) – 43(129)
First Time New Donors or First with New York Blood Center – 16

With Appreciation

David Blatt
Account Manager, Donor Recruitment”

Sephardic Center: “A large portion of those donors and those 129 lives saved were from your posts and I am happy to report we were able to restock the blood used to save our friend Moshe Ben Dina. Last I heard ,he is on the mend, the surgeries went well and gd willing he will continue to improve and come home.

Due to an extremely low level of blood we are still experiencing an urgent blood emergency!! Our next drive is at the non stop minyanim Hachaim Vehashalom on Cedarhurst Ave and willow on Cedarhurst July 27 from 3-9.

Thank you for your support and help.”

We thank all who came out to donate, and wish Moshe ben Dina a complete recovery!

Footage from the Asifa held for the Shloshim of Charlotte Herzberg A”H.

Speakers, including Rabbi Binyamin Eisenberger and Rabbi Heshy Kahan, discuss how to maintain Emunah and Bitachon in Hashem during times of profound tragedy.

The speakers emphasize that Shalom is not just about avoiding conflict, but about recognizing Hashem’s role in every aspect of life and choosing to forgive others to create unity.

The families involved share how they are choosing to use their loss to inspire Ahavas Yisrael and promote Shalom within the community, encouraging others to drop grudges and reach out to one another.

May it be a zechus for Charlotte A”H.

Join the movement, end the grudge today by clicking here.

Inspector General Anthony D’Esposito after receiving a Mezuzah for his office:

“My friend Rabbi Katz called after seeing threats following our H-1B fraud investigation announcement.

Though I’m not Jewish, he said I needed a mezuzah for blessings, wisdom, and protection. He drove from NY to deliver it. May it bring protection to all.”

My friend Rabbi Katz called after seeing threats following our H-1B fraud investigation announcement.

Though I’m not Jewish, he said I needed a mezuzah for blessings, wisdom, and protection. He drove from NY to deliver it.

May it bring protection to all @DOLOIG. pic.twitter.com/bJtap1EuzP

— Inspector General Anthony D'Esposito (@USLaborIG) July 14, 2026

By 5 Towns Central Staff

Transatlantic travel options between New York and Israel are set for a major expansion as Arkia Airlines introduces new flight frequencies and aircraft upgrades to its premier long-haul route. Responding to high consumer demand for summer travel, the airline will increase its schedule between Tel Aviv and New York’s John F. Kennedy International Airport throughout August and September.

The service expansion features the addition of new weekly flights on Mondays and Wednesdays. To support the immediate passenger volume, Arkia Airlines will deploy a modern Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner operated through an arrangement with Italian carrier Neos. This wide-body aircraft will provide 345 seats distributed across economy and premium cabins, alongside full onboard internet connectivity for passengers.

Further fleet adjustments will take place on September 11, when Arkia Airlines introduces an Airbus A330-300 operated by Hi Fly to replace one of the aircraft currently serving the New York corridor. The configuration of the incoming Airbus will offer a more robust premium experience, featuring 46 dedicated business class seats and 203 standard economy spaces. To ensure consistency in service standards, the airline has committed to staffing every single flight on the route with an Israeli flight crew.

The expanded flight schedules build upon a strategic commercial foundation laid earlier this year. Through an ongoing interline agreement established with JetBlue in January, arriving Arkia Airlines passengers landing at JFK can seamlessly connect to domestic flights across the United States, as well as international routes extending into Latin America and the Caribbean. Airline officials emphasize that the added capacities and elevated cabin features are specifically tailored to enhance overall comfort on long-haul flights.

By 5 Towns Central Staff

Washington, DC (July 15, 2026) — Plans are currently being finalized for a high-level diplomatic visit to the United States starting this weekend. Prime Minister Netanyahu is scheduled to arrive in the American capital on Sunday to conduct direct talks with the American president and attend memorial proceedings for a longtime legislative ally. The official travel itinerary is structured around several critical security discussions and a formal tribute to a senior statesman Lindsey Graham who recently passed away.

Graham, the veteran Republican senator from South Carolina and a staunch Israel supporter, died suddenly on Saturday at age 71 from an aortic dissection. Netanyahu has called him one of Israel’s greatest friends for his long advocacy of strong U.S.-Israel ties and opposition to Iran.

He will also have diplomatic discussions on Monday slated to address serious regional security issues, focusing heavily on ongoing maritime tensions and international nuclear developments. Reports from administrative sources indicate that the foreign leader intends to voice deep concerns regarding international negotiations over vital global shipping lanes. The leadership seeks to convey the strategic importance of thoroughly addressing foreign nuclear capabilities within any broader regional agreements, warning against diplomatic measures that might prioritize commercial traffic over long-term regional stability.

The high-stakes visit coincides with a complex series of diplomatic efforts in Washington, which include separate scheduled bilateral discussions with other Middle Eastern heads of state later in the week. Security analysts suggest the upcoming talks will provide a pivotal opportunity to coordinate policies regarding security zones and border defense. Although the exact timeline for the state events remains subject to final administrative updates, the primary delegation expects to conclude the multi-day mission and return home by mid-week.

FIVE TOWNS NINE DAYS RESTAURANT GUIDE

We’ve put together a guide of meat restaurants in the Five Towns and whether they’ll be open or closed during the Nine Days.

*Please note: This guide only includes meat restaurants, as dairy and pareve restaurants are generally open during this time.

We will also be updating this website post so you can easily access the most up-to-date list throughout the Nine Days.

Don’t see your restaurant listed? If you’re a meat restaurant, send us your information by email or text using our in the comment section below, and we’ll be happy to add you to the list below (not the graphic).

Updated List:

Traditions – closed (open Friday)
Prime Bistro – open (regular menu minus the meat)
Kosher Hibachi – closed
Chosen Island – open (nine days menu)
Carlos and Gabby’s (closed)
Anju – open (regular menu with many fish options)
Barbacoa – closed
Chimmichuri – closed
Graze – closed (open Friday)
The Shoppe on Central Ave – open
Chickies – closed
Doma – nine days menu and regular menu
Row Row – closed
Smash House – closed (open in friday)
MG Craft Kitchen – closed
Ondas by Feugo – open with fish menu

Ahuvas Grill Express – open with parve menu

Munchy’s – open with nine days menu

By 5 Towns Central Staff

QUEENS, N.Y. (July 15, 2026) — A vulnerable senior citizen was saved from losing her entire life savings thanks to a coordinated local effort by neighborhood safety patrols. After already being defrauded of a significant sum, the elderly resident became the target of a second extortion attempt, prompting a swift intervention that led directly to the arrest of a suspect. The elderly widow was saved by Queens Shomrim of Queens, working alongside Rockaway-Nassau Shomrim.

The elaborate scheme began when the victim was contacted by individuals claiming to represent a charitable organization dedicated to assisting mistreated children. The perpetrators convinced her that a cash contribution would be matched and doubled. Following their precise instructions, she placed tens of thousands of dollars into a taped container and handed it over directly to an unknown individual who arrived at her home.

Realizing she had been deceived only after the transaction was complete, the victim faced further distress when the perpetrators contacted her again to demand additional funds. This time, community safety coordinators were brought in to assist. Volunteers worked closely with the resident for several hours, guiding her on how to manage the ongoing demands. Under their direction, she informed the callers that her bank had flagged her accounts due to the unusual activity, but claimed she had an equivalent amount of physical currency remaining at her residence.

A security detail, consisting of dozens of Shomrim patrol members alongside law enforcement officers, established a perimeter around the home. When a suspect arrived at the residence to collect the secondary payment, authorities immediately moved in and took the individual into custody.

The successful operation prevented further financial devastation for the local resident. Regional authorities believe the arrested suspect is part of a much larger, organized financial fraud network, and the investigation remains highly active as they work to identify other individuals involved in the operation.

“To the Village of Cedarhurst Officials,

We, the undersigned residents and community members of the Five Towns, respectfully request that the Village review and improve the parking regulations and enforcement practices for the municipal parking lot located behind Beit Midrash Hachaim VeHashalom.

Beit Midrash Hachaim VeHashalom is one of the most active synagogues in the Five Towns community. Throughout the day and late into the evening, the shul hosts continuous prayer services, Torah learning, community gatherings, and religious activities. Minyanim take place throughout the day, often every 15 to 30 minutes, serving hundreds of residents and visitors weekly.

Unfortunately, many worshippers are forced to divide their attention between prayer and concerns about parking enforcement. It is not uncommon for individuals attending religious services to return to their vehicles and find parking tickets waiting for them. This creates unnecessary stress and distracts from the purpose of attending a house of worship.

We respectfully request that the Village consider one or more of the following solutions:

• Designate the lot behind Beit Midrash Hachaim VeHashalom as free parking during prayer service hours.

• Provide a reasonable grace period for worshippers attending religious services.

• Upgrade parking meters to accept credit cards and mobile app payments, consistent with modern parking systems used throughout Nassau County and neighboring communities.

• Create a permit, validation, or exemption program for individuals attending religious services.

• Work directly with synagogue leadership and community representatives to establish a practical long-term solution.

We recognize and respect the Village’s responsibility to regulate parking and maintain municipal revenue. However, we believe reasonable accommodations should be made for a location that serves as a central religious institution for thousands of community members.

At a minimum, if free parking cannot be provided, the Village should modernize the payment system to allow mobile app and credit card payments, making compliance easier for residents and visitors.

We respectfully ask the Village to review this matter and work together with the community toward a fair and reasonable solution.

Sincerely,

The Undersigned Residents and Community Members of the Five Towns”

CLICK HERE TO SIGN THE PETITION

Rav Moshe Weinberger delivered divrei chizuk at Camp Kaylie this week. Watch the full shiur below.

Rav Weinberger explained that the Beis Hamikdash is not merely a physical structure, but is built through the collective ‘gold’ and ‘silver’ found within every individual Jew. The Rav emphasized that we must look for the inherent holiness and unique positive qualities in one another, which is the true essence of building the sanctuary.

He encouraged his young listeners to recognize their status as Hashem’s chosen people and to treat themselves and others with the respect due to those who carry that divine spark. It was a big chizuk for the campers, the staff and the entire camp.

Cedarhurst, New York (July 15) – The Major Case Squad reports the arrest of a Valley Stream man on Tuesday, July 14th, at 7:30 pm for a Burglary that occurred on Thursday, June 25th, 2026 in Cedarhurst.

According to detectives, an unknown subject entered Jildor Shoes, located at 473 Central Avenue and removed a large safe containing US currency before fleeing the scene. After conducting an extensive investigation, defendant Frank C******, 54, was located and placed under arrest without further incident.

Defendant Frank C***** is charged with Burglary 3rd Degree. He will be arraigned on Wednesday, July 15, 2026 at First District Court, 99 Main Street, Hempstead.

By 5 Towns Central Staff

New Jersey (July 15, 2026) — A newly released highway safety analysis has highlighted a concerning trend on regional roadways, ranking New Jersey third in the nation for the percentage of fatal traffic accidents linked to aggressive or careless driving.

According to the study, which analyzed federal crash data, nearly half of all deadly collisions in the state involved at least one hazardous behavior, such as tailgating, failing to yield, or driving without due care. Out of more than six hundred fatal accidents recorded over the studied period, 288 were attributed to these dangerous actions. Only Arkansas and Louisiana registered higher proportions of aggression-linked traffic deaths.

The research also revealed significant national demographic disparities in traffic safety. Male drivers were found to be responsible for nearly eighty percent of all aggressive-driving fatalities across the country. Additionally, younger motorists accounted for the vast majority of these incidents, with millennial and Generation Z drivers combined making up nearly sixty percent of the operators involved in fatal, behavior-related crashes.

Safety experts suggest that these age-related statistics may stem from the fact that younger demographics frequently log more hours on the road. Commuting during peak rush hours or traveling late at night significantly elevates the likelihood of encountering tense situations and severe collisions.

The study also tracked the types of passenger vehicles most commonly involved in these deadly encounters, noting that popular full-size pickup trucks topped the list. Analysts point out that this trend is likely a reflection of both the sheer volume of these vehicles on the road and the increased physical impact larger, heavier trucks can inflict during a high-speed collision.

To curb these rising figures, safety advocates are urging motorists to practice defensive driving. Recommended precautions include leaving early to avoid the urge to speed, maintaining a safe following distance, and strictly avoiding any direct engagement or retaliation when encountering hostile drivers on the road.

By 5 Towns Central Staff

LAWRENCE, N.Y. (July 15, 2026) — Regional weather experts are warning local residents to prepare for a multi-day air quality event as significant smoke from out-of-control Canadian wildfires descends over the tri-state area. While skies initially showed only a light, high-altitude haze, meteorological patterns are expected to funnel much thicker, ground-level smoke directly into the Northeast through Thursday.

A slow-moving, high-pressure system sitting over the central United States is interacting with low pressure over eastern Canada, creating a atmospheric pipeline that is pulling thick smoke plumes south from active blazes in western Ontario. Unlike previous weather systems that kept the smoke suspended high in the atmosphere, a shift in regional winds is projected to push these fine particulates down to ground level.

The arrival of the smoke coincides with a dangerous regional heat wave, presenting simultaneous health challenges. Environmental officials warn that the combination of intense heat and fine particulate matter can cause respiratory discomfort, particularly for children, seniors, and individuals with pre-existing heart or lung conditions.

Residents are strongly advised to limit prolonged outdoor exertion, keep home windows securely closed, and utilize air conditioning systems equipped with clean filters to recirculate indoor air.

Though current models suggest these conditions will not reach the historic, hazardous levels experienced during the severe Canadian wildfire season of three years ago, local emergency management agencies are actively monitoring the situation as the smoke plume progresses.

SMOKE RETURNS : Plumes of smoke from the ongoing Canadian wildfires have reached parts of the Great Lakes and Northeast, causing hazy skies and a drop in air quality. Through Thursday, Americans could see the thickest smoke since the June 2023 outbreak turned skies a burnt… pic.twitter.com/wxdkAkeGxO

— FOX Weather (@foxweather) July 15, 2026

Smell smoke this morning? Its coming from a wildfire outbreak in Ontario. While it should not impact air quality much today, smoke at the surface could increase Wednesday into Thursday, potentially reducing visibilities and air quality. High temperatures may also be limited. pic.twitter.com/6QdV5965nt

— NWS New York NY (@NWSNewYorkNY) July 14, 2026

By 5 Towns Central Staff

WASHINGTON (July 15, 2026) — In a quiet but deeply significant meeting yesterday, the president welcomed five survivors of the Holocaust into the Oval Office. The gathering served as a powerful moment of reflection, coming at a time when communities across the nation are grappling with rising concerns over antisemitic rhetoric and incidents.

The discussion in the Oval Office focused heavily on the critical importance of preserving the historical record of the atrocities committed during World War II. As the generation of eyewitnesses grows smaller, administration officials and community leaders have emphasized that hearing directly from those who lived through the concentration camps remains an irreplaceable tool for education and remembrance.

During the meeting, the president reaffirmed the administration’s ongoing commitment to protecting the safety and security of the Jewish community domestically and globally. The conversation touched upon the responsibility of the federal government to actively combat prejudice and ensure that younger generations understand the devastating consequences of unchecked hatred.

The survivors, who have spent decades sharing their personal testimonies of endurance and loss, expressed their gratitude for the opportunity to bring their messages of resilience directly to the highest level of government. Attendees noted that the meeting offered a solemn reminder that the lessons of history must remain active in modern public discourse to prevent such tragedies from ever being repeated.

Statement from Frieda Rothman, the granddaughter of a survivor who witnessed the meeting:

“I don’t think I’ll ever fully find the words for today.

As the granddaughter of four Holocaust survivors, watching these remarkable women sit in the Oval Office and be honored by the President of the United States was one of the most emotional moments of my life.

From the darkest chapter in history to one of the most recognized rooms in the world… what an extraordinary testament to the strength of these women.

Today was about honoring the past, celebrating resilience, and ensuring these stories are never forgotten.”

By 5 Towns Central Staff

LAWRENCE, N.Y. (July 15, 2026) — The New York State Republican Party has initiated a targeted advertising campaign aimed at attracting Jewish voters to the party, while simultaneously leveling sharp criticisms against high-profile Democratic leadership over their handling of antisemitism.

The strategic push includes digital social media advertisements and placements in various regional Jewish publications. At the center of the campaign is an open message addressed to the local Jewish community from the state’s Republican leadership. The messaging pledges unwavering support for Israel, highlighting the nation as a vital democratic ally and praising the cultural and historical contributions of the Jewish community to Western society.

The campaign specifically accuses the state’s Democratic establishment of failing to address growing radicalism within its ranks. Republican organizers pointed to recent rhetoric from progressive leaders, including the mayor, as evidence of a deeper problem. Criticism was also directed at several prominent statewide and federal Democratic figures, who critics argue have remained passive during key moments of controversy.

State Republicans are positioning themselves as a secure political home for those feeling alienated by the current progressive direction of the Democratic Party, emphasizing their strong support for key advocacy organizations.

Conversely, progressive Democratic figures and their allies, who have consistently maintained a highly critical stance toward foreign policy and international alliances, reject accusations of prejudice. These figures contend that their positions are focused on advocacy for humanitarian concerns and human rights. However, several incoming candidates backed by the progressive wing have continued to draw intense scrutiny from community members and political opponents alike for their sharp public rhetoric, further deepening the political division ahead of the upcoming election cycle.

By 5 Towns Central Staff

Saranac Lake, N.Y. (July 15, 2026) — Federal and state investigators are on the scene in upstate New York following a devastating small plane crash late Monday night that claimed three lives. The incident occurred in a densely wooded area shortly after the aircraft departed from a local regional airport.

According to official state police reports, the twin-engine 1976 Piper Aerostar 601P took off at approximately 10:36 p.m.. The aircraft had reached an altitude of only about 100 feet before ground communications were abruptly lost. A massive search and rescue operation was quickly initiated, leading emergency crews to a remote wooded location in the town of Harrietstown, near the intersection of State Route 186 and Hearf’s Way.

First responders found the aircraft completely destroyed by the impact and a subsequent post-crash fire. State authorities have confirmed that the pilot and both passengers on board were pronounced deceased at the scene. Nearby residents reported hearing the sound of the sudden impact, which was also captured by local home security footage.

The tragic accident has prompted a multi-agency response, with regional police, local fire departments, and environmental conservation rangers assisting at the site. Due to the ongoing recovery and investigative efforts, state authorities have temporarily closed a significant portion of the nearby Adirondack Rail Trail.

The Federal Aviation Administration and the National Transportation Safety Board have taken the lead on the investigation to determine the exact cause of the crash. Investigators are currently reviewing flight logs, weather patterns, and debris patterns to understand what led to the loss of altitude and communication immediately following takeoff. More details are expected to be released as the physical examination of the aircraft components continues.

Today the U. S. House of Representatives passed the Sunshine Protection Act by a wide majority. Agudath Israel of America and its constituents understand the popular desire to “lock the clock.” We are concerned, however, that by choosing permanent daylight saving time (DST) for the entire country it will put children at risk and affect our religious practices.

Permanent DST would mean sunrises after 9 am in some parts of the country for weeks in the winter thereby causing many of America’s schoolchildren to head for school – by foot, by bicycle, or by bus – in the pre-sunrise darkness amd putting them at increased risk.

For the Orthodox Jewish community, an unintended, yet compelling, consequence of such legislation is the effect it will have on our fundamental religious practices. In Jewish law, morning prayers, and the rituals associated with them, must be recited no earlier than at specified times. The later sunrise occurs; the later synagogue services must begin. The extension of DST will create an extreme hardship on observant Jews. It would be extraordinarily difficult – if not impossible – to arrive on time for a job and will effect the start time of our schools.

The last time this happened in the 1970’s the popularity of the measure dropped dramatically once Americans experienced one dark winter and Congress had to reverse itself within a year.

We are hopeful that the Senate will consider all of the effects of DST and compare them to the effects of permanent standard time or maintaining the status quo before rushing into this major change.

By 5 Towns Central Staff

LAWRENCE, N.Y. (July 14, 2026) — Federal lawmakers voted Tuesday to advance legislation aimed at establishing permanent daylight saving time nationwide, moving the long-debated proposal to the Senate. The measure passed the House of Representatives by a substantial margin and has drawn significant attention across local Orthodox Jewish communities due to its potential impact on early morning Minyanim.

Under the proposed Sunshine Protection Act, the twice-yearly ritual of resetting clocks would be eliminated, keeping clocks set one hour forward throughout the winter months. While individual states would retain the ability to opt out and remain on standard time, neighboring jurisdictions could adopt conflicting policies. The core concern for local residents centers on sunrise calculations during the winter months. Moving the clock forward an hour would delay mid-winter sunrises significantly, causing early morning zmanim to shift much later into the day. As a result, early morning minyanim that currently accommodate commuter schedules before work could become impossible to hold at their customary hours, forcing shuls to restructure morning schedules across the area.

Safety advocates and community leaders have also raised concerns regarding children traveling to school during dark morning hours. Similar federal legislation enacted during the energy crisis in the mid-1970s was quickly repealed after parents expressed widespread alarm about students walking and waiting for school buses before sunrise.

Supporters of the measure argue that maintaining extended evening light year-round provides economic benefits, reduces traffic incidents, and promotes healthier daily routines. However, the bill faces an uncertain path in the Senate, where similar time-change proposals have stalled in past legislative sessions. Local community leaders continue to monitor the legislation closely as federal lawmakers deliberate the measure.

By 5 Towns Central Staff

ALBANY, N.Y. (July 14, 2026) — Consumers in New York could soon receive financial incentives for handling their own grocery scanning and bagging under a new legislative proposal introduced in the state assembly. The proposed bill would require retail establishments and food vendors that utilize self-checkout systems to offer a ten percent price reduction to customers opting for self-service stations.

The legislative effort targets supermarkets, big-box chains, and general retail stores that feature self-service terminals alongside standard grocery operations. Supporters of the measure contend that automated checkouts shift traditional labor responsibilities—such as scanning inventory, bagging items, and processing digital payments—directly onto the shopper without offering corresponding compensation. Proponents argue that the operational cost savings realized by corporate retailers through reduced store staffing ought to be shared directly with the public rather than retained solely as profit.

The bill joins a growing collection of legislative initiatives across several states attempting to regulate automated retail operations. While alternative proposals in neighboring jurisdictions focus on establishing strict item limits per transaction or mandating minimum numbers of human cashiers to curb retail theft and preserve employment, the New York proposal centers directly on consumer cost relief.

If enacted, the law would compel eligible businesses to automatically apply the percentage discount at the register whenever a customer processes their own transaction. While retail advocacy groups caution that mandatory discounts could pressure store margins or lead to higher base prices, consumer advocacy organizations view the measure as a fair compensation framework for customer labor in an increasingly automated retail environment. The bill currently awaits further committee review as lawmakers evaluate its potential economic impacts.

By 5 Towns Central Staff

WASHINGTON, D.C. (July 14, 2026) — High-level diplomatic discussions between American and Israeli leadership have highlighted growing friction regarding active military deployments along northern and eastern border sectors. Federal administrators have encouraged a gradual shift in troop positions across southern Syria and southern Lebanon, expressing concern that sustained forward garrisons could heighten regional instability and complicate ongoing stabilization efforts.

The recommendations follow high-level international meetings in Turkey, where American leadership engaged in bilateral discussions with regional leaders regarding long-term security arrangements. Federal officials emphasize that reducing forward military footprints could mitigate rising localized friction, particularly in areas experiencing public protests and cross-border tension. However, leadership in Jerusalem maintains that establishing and preserving designated buffer zones along defense perimeters remains essential to safeguarding civilian communities from potential cross-border insurgencies.

Concurrently, diplomatic envoys from both nations met in Europe to discuss the implementation of previously negotiated security frameworks. Under these proposed guidelines, forces would incrementally withdraw from designated pilot sectors in southern Lebanon, paving the way for national defense units to assume security responsibilities once verification protocols confirm the removal of hostile infrastructure and illegal armaments. Regional defense analysts suggest that significant troop movements remain unlikely in the immediate term, as national security priorities continue to prioritize complete disarmament within strategic sectors before altering defense arrangements.

Despite differing perspectives regarding timeline and territorial buffers, diplomatic representatives maintain that allied coordination remains firm. Federal mediators continue working toward comprehensive regional security agreements designed to balance local defense requirements with broader international stability objectives.

By 5 Towns Central Staff

WASHINGTON, D.C. (July 14, 2026) — Senior leadership in the House of Representatives has formally announced opposition to a pending legislative amendment that seeks to eliminate approximately $3.3 billion in annual foreign military financing, taking a firm stance on a measure that has prompted intense internal debate.

The amendment, introduced by Rep. Thomas Massie (R-Ky.) to the fiscal 2027 State Department spending bill, is expected to come to a vote as soon as tomorrow, according to reports in Israeli media. Progressives have pushed to end U.S. financial support for Israel, while leadership-aligned members warn the measure could also choke off aid to Palestinians in Gaza.

Congressional leadership warned that the wording of the proposal is overly broad and could inadvertently disrupt critical diplomatic efforts, limit emergency humanitarian assistance, restrict funding for refugee resettlement programs, and complicate ongoing security operations against hostile regional groups.

Reports indicate that the proposal has created significant debate within congressional ranks, with progressive factions advocating for reductions in military allocations while leadership-aligned members argue that sweeping cuts would undermine long-standing strategic commitments. Public statements from congressional figures emphasize that maintaining regional stability requires carefully targeted policies rather than broad funding prohibitions.

The development arrives amidst broader discussions surrounding long-term foreign assistance and economic partnership agreements. While some policy analysts point to growing discussions regarding economic self-reliance and joint defense initiatives between allied nations, legislative leaders maintain that abrupt reductions through procedural amendments do not represent sound foreign policy. A full floor vote on the spending bill and its associated amendments is expected as congressional debate continues in the coming days.

For the record, PM Netanyahu and many others agree that they would be much better off without the US aid, but the way the democrats have expressed their agenda is a disgrace.

Pesakim of Dayan Shmuel Fuerst shlita.

By 5 Towns Central Staff

LOD, Israel (July 14, 2026) — A vibrant arrival ceremony took place at Ben Gurion Airport as a substantial delegation of 230 new immigrants from France touched down, marking a major milestone in ongoing European migration efforts. The latest arrivals bring the total number of French citizens relocating to the country over the past month to approximately 800 individuals.

The arrivals reached the tarmac across four coordinated flights arranged through specialized national integration departments. Prominent government leaders, including top finance officials and immigration administrators, gathered at the terminal to personally greet the incoming families and individuals as they stepped off the planes. Community youth organizations also joined the reception, welcoming the newcomers with music and traditional celebrations inside the main arrival hall.

The influx reflects a broader surge in European immigration, driven by a combination of strong communal ties and growing security concerns across Western Europe. Over the past several years, thousands of families have chosen to re-establish their lives across various municipalities, supported by expanded government initiatives designed to streamline professional absorption, housing placements, and language instruction.

Regional officials emphasized that the steady arrival of new residents strengthens local communities and underscores a sustained commitment to facilitating smooth transitions for families choosing to make the move. Integration supervisors noted that upcoming flights scheduled throughout the remainder of the summer season are expected to bring hundreds more new arrivals to bolster towns and cities nationwide.

By 5 Towns Central Staff

MANHATTAN, N.Y. (July 14, 2026) — A federal appellate court has reinstated over five hundred personal injury lawsuits alleging that prenatal exposure to popular over-the-counter acetaminophen products, including Tylenol, contributed to developmental conditions such as autism spectrum disorder and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder.

The decision by the United States Court of Appeals for the Second Circuit vacates a previous lower court ruling that had effectively dismissed the consolidated multidistrict litigation. The three-judge appellate panel determined that the trial judge exceeded discretionary boundaries when disqualifying key medical and scientific experts presented by the families seeking damages. By determining that the lower court applied overly restrictive standards to the testimony of several qualified researchers, the appellate decision clears the way for the complex cases to return to the district court for further evidentiary proceedings.

Judges on the appellate panel explicitly emphasized that the procedural ruling does not constitute a finding on whether a direct medical link actually exists between prenatal acetaminophen usage and neurodevelopmental diagnoses. The court made no determinations regarding public health guidelines or product labeling mandates.

Major medical associations and leading health organizations maintain that comprehensive scientific reviews have failed to establish a proven causal connection between acetaminophen and childhood developmental conditions. Healthcare professionals continue to recommend the medication as the safest option for managing fever and pain during pregnancy when used according to standard medical guidance.

Corporate representatives for the product’s manufacturer reiterated that the recent ruling centers strictly on courtroom procedures regarding expert testimony rather than the underlying scientific facts. Defense teams expressed confidence in the medical consensus supporting the drug’s safety profile and confirmed plans to continue contesting the claims as the litigation resumes in federal court.

By 5 Towns Central Staff

MINEOLA, N.Y. (July 14, 2026) — Financial disclosures from the upcoming New York gubernatorial contest show that challenger Bruce Blakeman has assembled nearly $11 million in campaign contributions, positioning his campaign to mount a robust challenge against incumbent Governor Kathy Hochul.

Campaign representatives report that the fundraising total was generated through contributions from more than 10,000 donors across the region. The financial surge is expected to be further augmented by approximately $1.5 million in state matching funds following a legal battle concerning candidate eligibility. A state appellate court previously ruled that administrative authorities acted improperly when attempting to deny matching disbursements over filing paperwork procedures, ultimately clearing the way for several million dollars in public campaign allocations to be released.

Upcoming official financial filings are expected to provide a comprehensive look at both major campaign accounts. Previous state filings indicated that the incumbent governor maintained a substantial financial advantage, holding over $20 million in direct funds alongside significantly higher state party account balances compared to her challenger’s political party backing. To help balance the financial disparity, independent political action committees supporting the challenger have also been established, allowing supporters to pool additional resources without standard contribution limits.

The gubernatorial contest marks the incumbent’s bid for a second full four-year term after assuming office following a mid-term resignation and securing a narrow victory in the subsequent statewide election. Meanwhile, the challenger, who serves as the Nassau County Executive, is framing his candidacy around statewide economic concerns, emphasizing public safety and cost-of-living issues as key focal points for New York voters heading into the election cycle.

By 5 Towns Central Staff

NEW YORK, N.Y. (July 14, 2026) — Municipal health officials have expanded an ongoing public health investigation across several Upper East Side neighborhoods after dozens of local residents contracted a severe form of bacterial pneumonia. The active community cluster, concentrated primarily within the Carnegie Hill and Yorkville areas, has grown to sixty confirmed cases, with fifteen individuals currently receiving inpatient hospital treatment and over thirty individuals successfully discharged following medical care. No fatalities have been reported in connection with the localized outbreak.

Field teams from municipal health agencies have centered their environmental testing efforts on three specific postal codes encompassing the affected neighborhood boundaries. Environmental inspectors have surveyed over one hundred rooftop cooling tower systems across the area, identifying thirty-one building towers that returned preliminary positive indications for the presence of the localized bacteria. Property owners across all flagged locations were immediately instructed to drain, flush, and chemically disinfect their cooling units to eliminate potential exposure risks while more comprehensive laboratory culture analyses remain ongoing.

Health authorities emphasize that the respiratory infection is caused by inhaling microscopic water vapor containing the bacteria, rather than through direct contact or drinking water. Consequently, municipal guidance confirms that public municipal water supplies remain completely safe for drinking, cooking, bathing, and domestic use, while standard window and home air conditioning units pose no transmission risk.

Local health representatives are encouraging residents, neighborhood workers, and recent visitors to monitor for flu-like symptoms, including elevated fever, persistent coughing, chills, muscle aches, and shortness of breath. Medical experts note that while most individuals exposed to the bacteria do not become ill, older adults, individuals with pre-existing lung conditions, and those with compromised immune systems face an elevated risk of developing serious complications. Community informational briefings have been organized to keep local residents informed as remediation efforts continue throughout the district.

By 5 Towns Central Staff

NEW YORK, N.Y. (July 14, 2026) — Municipal authorities have officially launched a comprehensive initiative aimed at transforming the urban pedestrian experience by overhauling the design standards and regulatory framework governing citywide sidewalk sheds. The administrative push introduces modernized structural alternatives designed to replace traditional pipe-and-plywood scaffolding with brighter, more expansive pedestrian protection systems.

The citywide streetscape strategy focuses on implementing updated agency regulations through the Department of Buildings, promoting new architectural designs that emphasize natural light, increased overhead visibility, and reduced physical footprint on municipal walkways. Urban planning officials note that while protective structures remain essential during building maintenance and facade preservation, conventional dark green sheds have long restricted foot traffic and obscured local storefronts. The newly introduced models feature adaptable height clearances, transparent roofing materials, and wider structural spans that eliminate bulky support cross-bracing.

According to municipal announcements, the regulatory overhaul operates alongside broader enforcement measures intended to accelerate facade repairs and prevent temporary protective structures from lingering indefinitely on city streets. Updated oversight protocols mandate strict project timelines for property owners, applying financial penalties when scaffolding remains erected past permissible limits without active construction.

Local business coalitions and community advocates have generally welcomed the structural updates, highlighting that improved aesthetic standards will enhance public safety while supporting ground-floor commercial activity. Municipal agencies plan to continue rolling out standardized open-source design specifications, allowing developers and property managers across all five boroughs to adopt the modern pedestrian setups for upcoming construction and restoration projects.

By 5 Towns Central Staff

LAWRENCE, N.Y. (July 14, 2026) — Regional weather authorities have issued a widespread Heat Advisory across the tri-state area, warning residents to prepare for dangerously high temperatures and oppressive humidity. The official advisory remains in effect through Wednesday evening, with heat index values expected to peak near 100 degrees during the hottest afternoon hours.

Atmospheric conditions will escalate steadily throughout the morning, with temperatures rising into the high 80s by midday before push felt conditions well into the upper 90s by peak afternoon hours. Elevated humidity levels will prevent significant thermal relief, keeping heat index figures in the mid-to-upper 90s until early evening. Overnight conditions are expected to remain muggy and warm, setting up an even hotter environment for Wednesday.

State and local agencies urge community members to take proactive precautions to guard against heat-related exhaustion and illness. Public health guidance recommends staying indoors with air conditioning as much as possible, increasing fluid intake, and avoiding strenuous outdoor activities during peak daylight periods. Designated public cooling centers—including local libraries, senior centers, and civic buildings—have been activated throughout Nassau County, New York City, and surrounding municipalities to accommodate residents seeking relief.

Residents are encouraged to check on elderly relatives, neighbors, and individuals living alone who may be more susceptible to high indoor temperatures. Additionally, pet owners should limit outdoor animal exercise and ensure pets have access to ample shade and fresh water. Official weather forecasts indicate that high temperatures and humid air masses will persist through late week before a cool front gradually brings relief over the weekend.

New York, another heatwave is on its way this week. Temperatures are expected to feel like the upper 90s Tuesday, with the heat index climbing into the low 100s Wednesday before cooler weather arrives later this week.

Here’s a reminder of what you need to know to stay safe.…

— Mayor Zohran Kwame Mamdani (@NYCMayor) July 14, 2026

• Anything that’s not allowed during the three weeks is also not allowed during the nine days.

Eating meat

1. Meat/chicken shouldn’t be used as an ingredient in foods.
2. Better not to feed kids meat, but if necessary then below age six is fine.
3. Chicken can be fed to kids of all ages.
4. Kids who are going to sleep before Shabbos can eat meat/chicken Friday afternoon.
5. One who’s sick or one who can’t eat dairy can eat chicken.
6. One who’s given birth in the last thirty days can eat chicken if that’s what she normally eats.
7. Food can be cooked in meat utensils.
8. For cooking purposes, meat can be tasted and then spit out.

Wine

1. It’s better not to use wine as an ingredient in foods.
2. Grape juice is not allowed.
3. Beer and liquor is allowed.
4. Wine can be drunk for havdala.

Parties

1. Better not to have gatherings.
2. For a mitzvah it’s allowed.
3. Trips are allowed if they’re not dangerous. Some don’t because it’s not in the spirit of the times.

Siyum

1. At a siyum, wine and meat can be eaten.
2. Even if one comes late and misses the actual siyum, they can still eat.
3. A siyum should preferably not be timed specifically for the nine days. If it was timed then it’s allowed.
4. One should only participate in a siyum that they’d participate in during the rest of the year (no going to a strangers siyum).
5. A minyan is not necessary. If a minyan is not present, Kaddish is not recited.

Construction

1. Construction shouldn’t be done.
2. If it’s to make a house livable then it’s allowed.
3. If it’s to expand the house and the work is contracted, and you can’t push off the contractor then it’s allowed.
4. If it was started before the three weeks then it can be finished.
5. No moving into a new house, unless you have no place else to live.
6. Going to contract on a house is allowed.
7. No planting grass, flowers etc.
8. Mowing the lawn is allowed, if necessary.

Clothing/Washing

1. Washing clothing is not allowed.
2. Drying clothing is allowed.
3. This includes towels, tablecloths, and linen.
4. Drying wet clothing is allowed.
5. Giving clothing into non Jewish cleaners is not allowed even if it’s for after the 9 days (for shabbos after the 9 days, it’s allowed).
6. Clothing can not be brought into the cleaners.
7. Clothing that was previously cleaned can be picked up at the cleaners.
8. Soaking clothing is not allowed unless you need to soak to get out potential permanent stains.
9. Shaitels can’t be washed but they can be set.
10. Heavy house cleaning shouldn’t be done unless it’s very necessary.

Clothing/Washing/Exclusions

1. Laundry can be done for children that are of the age that they constantly soil their clothes (the age is dependent on each child. Up to age seven is definitely allowed).
2. Adult clothing is not allowed to be put into the washing machine at the same time as kids clothing.
3. Taking stains out of clothes is allowed.
4. One who’s entire wardrobe is dirty, can wash one article of clothing as necessary up until Shabbos of the nine days.
5. It’s better to wash clothing than to buy new clothing (as opposed to chol hamoed).
6. If it’s cheap clothing, buying is better.
7. One who has no clean clothing for shabbos can wash clothing but giving it to a non Jewish cleaners or a cleaning lady is preferred.
8. Shoes can be polished.
9. Hats can be brushed.
10. Linen can be washed If one is having guests and they need clean linen.

Clothing/New and freshly laundered

1. Wearing new or freshly laundered clothing is not allowed.
2. New or freshly washed underwear and socks are allowed to be worn but not washed.
3. New and freshly laundered clothing should be worn before the nine days.
4. Each article of clothing should be worn for the amount of time that it will take to remove the “freshness” from them.
5. Putting previously washed clothing on the floor to take out the “freshness” is fine.
6. Putting brand new clothing on the floor is not allowed.
7. Lying down on the clothes to take out the “freshness” is also fine.
8. This can be done on during the nine days too.
9. For Shabbos, new clothing can be worn.
10. Shabbos clothing can’t be worn during the week, unless it is necessary for a shidduch date.

Clothing/Fixing

1. Clothing can’t be sewn.
2. Clothing can’t be sewn even if it’s not going to be finished until after the 9 days.
3. Tailoring can be given in to a non Jewish cleaners for use after the nine days.
4. Learning how to sew is allowed as long as clothing is not being sewn (learn on rags etc.).
5. Buttons can be put back on.
6. A hem that fell down is allowed to be fixed.
7. Shaitels should preferably not be fixed up etc. if necessary ask a Sheila.

Purchasing/Clothing

1. No new clothing can be purchased. Even if it won’t be worn until after the nine days.
2. Ordering online is not allowed.
3. Used clothing can be purchased if you don’t get a good feeling from buying them.
4. Better not to window shop but it’s not prohibited.
5. Clothing that’s on a very good sale can be purchased if they won’t be available later.
6. Clothing can be purchased if you’re in a place that has cheap clothing or clothing that’s not available elsewhere and you won’t be going back there.
7. Clothing for children can be purchased if necessary.
8. Shoes for Tisha B’av can be purchased.
9. Engaged couples can buy clothing for the wedding.
10. Clothing can be returned for a store credit but not to exchange.

Purchasing/Other items

1. Regular items can be bought.
2. Expensive items should not be bought (ex. Jewelry, furniture).
3. Appliances shouldn’t be bought unless they’re necessary.
4. Automobiles shouldn’t be bought/leased unless necessary for one’s employment.
5. Seforim may be purchased.
6. Cheap presents for a Bar Mitzvah, birth of a baby, etc. may be given.
7. Flowers may be purchased for Shabbos.

Washing and bathing

1. Bathing is not allowed even with cold water.
2. The hands, face and feet can be washed with cold water.
3. One who’s used to bathing daily and therefore feels disgusting, can shower with cold water with just enough hot water mixed in so that it’s not uncomfortable. Soap can be used too.
4. Regular showers can be taken for shabbos. However cooler is better.
5. Kids up until age 8 can be bathed regularly.
6. The minhag is that children don’t go swimming.
7. A kiddie pool or sprinkler is allowed up until age eight.
8. Swimming for exercise is only allowed if it’s very necessary and there’s no alternative exercise.
9. Men that go to Mikveh daily (or for Tevilas Ezra) may do so but preferably to a cooler one.

Miscellaneous

1. Nails can be cut until the week of Tisha B’Av.
2. Hair removal for women is allowed.
3. Mikva preparation for women is done as normal with using hot water, cutting nails.
4. If Mikva falls out on Tisha Bav it gets pushed off until after Tisha Bav.
5. Preparation for mikva after Tisha Bav should preferably be done after Tisha Bav, after breaking the fast.
6. Needlepoint etc. is not preferable but if necessary is allowed.
7. Some say not to have elective surgeries during the three weeks, others aren’t concerned with this.
8. Flying during the three weeks and even during the nine days is allowed.

Those that properly mourn the destruction of the Beis Hamikdash will merit to see its rebuilding.

Gov. Kathy Hochul is pressing federal immigration officials for details after reports surfaced that U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) may be increasing its detention capacity across upstate New York.

In a letter sent to Homeland Security Secretary Markwayne Mullin, Hochul requested clarification about reports that ICE is considering leasing a warehouse near Newburgh in the Hudson Valley while also expanding detention operations at federal facilities in Rochester and Batavia.

“New Yorkers, like all Americans, deserve honest answers about what their federal government is doing in their communities,” Hochul wrote. “I expect your department to provide that transparency.”

The federal government shouldn’t be planning immigration detention facilities in New York behind closed doors.

New Yorkers deserve transparency. I’m demanding answers from @SecMullinDHS. pic.twitter.com/kywhubIPNq

— Governor Kathy Hochul (@GovKathyHochul) July 13, 2026

The request comes as Hochul and other New York Democrats continue to face criticism from President Trump and members of his administration, including border czar Tom Homan, over the state’s recently enacted sanctuary-style immigration measures.

ICE Acting Assistant Secretary Lauren Bis defended the agency’s actions, arguing that New York’s policies limit cooperation between local authorities and federal immigration officers. She said those restrictions require ICE agents to make more public arrests after migrants with criminal records are released from local custody. Bis also maintained that many of the nation’s safest cities work closely with ICE and accused state leaders of allowing dangerous offenders back into communities. She said the agency would respond directly to Hochul’s letter.

New York’s recently approved immigration legislation prohibits local governments from allowing ICE to use their detention facilities. However, Hochul stopped short of alleging that ICE had violated the law, and her office acknowledged that the restriction applies only to local governments—not to federal facilities.

Earlier this month, Hochul and Attorney General Letitia James also filed a lawsuit seeking to prohibit federal immigration officers from wearing masks during enforcement operations.

A new analysis from the Citizen Budget Commission shows that New York’s share of America’s millionaires fell significantly between 2010 and 2022, dropping from 12.7% to 8.7%—the largest decline experienced by any state. The report estimates this shift reduced New York’s personal income tax collections by approximately $10.7 billion in 2022 alone.

Although the number of millionaires living in New York doubled during that 12-year period, other states saw even faster growth. California and Texas each tripled their millionaire populations, while Florida’s millionaire count quadrupled, pushing New York down to fourth place nationwide.

The report also comes as debate continues over New York City’s tax policies. Critics argue that Mayor Zohran Mamdani’s proposal to increase taxes on high-income earners could encourage more wealthy residents to relocate. According to the analysis, New York already has the highest per-capita state and local tax burden in the country, collecting 78% more than the national average.

Good work, Mamdani!

By 5 Towns Central Staff

NEW YORK, N.Y. (July 13, 2026) — Residential rental rates across New York City have reached unprecedented levels, with fresh market analysis detailing record pricing across both Manhattan and Brooklyn. According to recent real estate performance data, average monthly costs for single-bedroom apartments in Manhattan climbed to $5,408, while median rental prices across the borough reached $5,295. Studio units similarly crossed historical thresholds, averaging $4,014 per month.

The sharp upward trajectory extends into Brooklyn, where median rental rates advanced to an all-time peak of $4,350, marking an eight percent increase compared to the previous year. Average rents for single-bedroom layouts in the borough similarly expanded, reaching $4,297 per month. Analysts attribute the sustained price surges to persistent inventory shortages across the metropolitan area, with active listings dropping by sixteen percent year-over-year in Manhattan and creating intense competition among prospective tenants.

Municipal fiscal leaders have characterized the current housing conditions as a severe emergency, urging immediate legislative and administrative interventions. Industry updates indicate that thousands of rent-stabilized units remain vacant across the five boroughs, reflecting a six percent vacancy rate within regulated housing stock. City officials argue that addressing the severe shortage will require comprehensive zoning adjustments, streamlined bureaucratic approval processes to reduce construction delays, municipal investment in affordable development, and targeted policies to return offline regulated apartments to the active leasing market.

The escalating costs follow recent regulatory decisions establishing rent caps on approximately one million stabilized units across the city. However, market experts note that constrained supply in the market-rate sector continues to drive record pricing, placing heightened financial pressure on residents across the region.

Agudath Israel of America mourns the passing of U.S. Senator Lindsey Graham (R – SC) at the age of 71. Senator Graham was one of the strongest and most outspoken defenders of Israel and the Jewish people in Congress. Senator Graham was well respected by his colleagues and knew how to skillfully work across the aisle when necessary. Agudah was proud to work with the Senator on many of our shared priorities including passing the Taylor Force Act and initiating the annual resolution honoring Religious Education Week.

Senator Graham represented the State of South Carolina, where he did not have a large Jewish constituency. Yet he was considered – and considered himself – a close friend of the Jewish people, especially the Orthodox Jewish community. Commenting on his close relationship with the community, Senator Graham said to our leadership at an Agudah Mission to Washington, “I may not be Orthodox, but I might as well be!” Our thoughts are with his family, his staff, and colleagues in the Senate, and the citizens of South Carolina.

Today July 13, at Shaarei Emunah – The Sephardic Congregation of the Five Towns is hosting an emergency blood drive from 3:00–9:00 PM.

The need has become deeply personal. Last week , the father of a close friend was struck by an SUV at Franklin Avenue & West Broadway in Hewlett. He is still in the hospital and has had hours of surgeries to put him back together.
He is still intubated and has suffered traumatic injuries. Besides multiple broken bones, and has already required over 17 units of blood.

His story is a powerful reminder that none of us knows when we or someone we love may depend on the generosity of strangers.

If you are eligible, please consider donating. One donation can help save multiple lives.

Shaarei Emunah – The Sephardic Congregation of the Five Towns
539 Oakland Ave., Cedarhurst
Monday, July 13
3:00 PM – 9:00 PM

Appointments are preferred, but walk-ins are welcome if space permits. Please eat, hydrate, and bring a photo ID. The flyer has the QR code to schedule your appointment.

Thank you, and please keep Moshe ben Dina in your tefillos for a Refuah Sheleimah.

LAWRENCE, NY — The Village of Lawrence Board of Trustees has approved several traffic safety initiatives aimed at reducing speeding and improving roadway safety throughout the community, particularly in the Back Lawrence neighborhood.

During a recent Board meeting, residents voiced concerns regarding excessive speeding on Causeway, Ocean Avenue, Harborview North, Harborview South, and Narragansett Avenue. Residents cited limited visibility, dangerous roadway curves, and the absence of sidewalks in certain areas, creating safety concerns for pedestrians, cyclists, and families with young children.

In response, the Board approved resolutions authorizing further analysis and evaluation of new traffic control measures, including proposed stop signs at the intersections of Harborview North and Lawrence Avenue, the intersection of Harborview South and Harborview West, and Causeway and Narragansett Avenue.

Village officials will work closely with residents and traffic safety professionals to determine the most effective solutions for each location.

Additionally, the Village will evaluate the potential installation of speed humps in areas experiencing chronic speeding. Similar traffic-calming measures recently installed on Atlantic Avenue have successfully reduced vehicle speeds and improved roadway safety.

The Village will also coordinate with the Nassau County Police Department’s Fourth Precinct to increase patrols and targeted traffic enforcement in affected areas.

“Protecting the safety of our residents is one of our highest priorities,” said Mayor Samuel Nahmias. “We have heard the concerns raised by our residents and are taking proactive steps to address speeding and improve traffic safety throughout the Village. Through engineering, enforcement, and community input, we will continue working to make our streets safer for everyone.”

Residents are encouraged to continue sharing feedback as the Village conducts its traffic safety analysis and develops recommendations for future improvements.

For additional information, please contact Village Hall at (516) 239-4600.

By 5 Towns Central Staff

JERUSALEM, Israel (July 13, 2026) — The northern Jerusalem-area community of Givat Ze’ev has officially transitioned from a local council into a fully recognized municipality, marking a significant milestone in regional administrative development. The administrative upgrade was formally enacted after military leadership within the regional command signed the official decree, designating the town as the fifth community in Judea and Samaria to attain full city status.

The status shift comes on the heels of sustained population growth in recent years, with the local resident count climbing past 35,000. Located just northwest of the capital, the thriving area has developed into a major residential hub for young families, supported by a substantial Orthodox demographic alongside a growing community of American immigrants. Professional teams from regional planning and interior departments collaborated over an extended period to align the administrative transition with the community’s rapid physical expansion.

Local leadership welcomed the official declaration, emphasizing that the elevated status provides the municipality with expanded planning authority, greater fiscal independence, and increased resource allocations to support long-term infrastructural goals. Municipal representatives noted that while the new framework will streamline civic services and enhance development capabilities, efforts will focus on preserving the warm, community-centered atmosphere that defines the neighborhood.

National finance officials also commended the bureaucratic transition, describing the upgrade as an important step forward for regional infrastructure and long-term economic stability. The designation is expected to accelerate upcoming housing and transportation projects across the enclave, reinforcing its position as a vital residential center in the greater Jerusalem envelope.

Rabbi Mordechai Yehuda Groner on Let’s Get Real with Coach Menachem, Sunday July 12th.

Geula Through Emunah: How Can Emunah Help Us Find Light During the Darkness of the Three Weeks

Graham was not Jewish, and one should not respond “Amen” to Kaddish that is not live, either way.

We see the profound impact that Graham had on all Israeli’s.

To understand the Lindsey Graham consensus: Barak Ravid was practically in tears over him on Channel 12, while Yinon Magal recited Kaddish for him on Channel 14, even though he wasn’t Jewish.

We will remember him. pic.twitter.com/bpb1Dg5rF4

— raz sauber – רז זאובר (@raz_sauber_) July 12, 2026

Lindsey Graham’s tribute to his dear friend Joe Lieberman broke every rule—because laughter was the only way to hide his broken heart. If you’ve never seen this before, it’s mush-watch material pic.twitter.com/mv5eLhhQ92

— Dovi Safier (@safier) July 12, 2026

“Lindsey Graham stood up to the world’s bullies and genocidal regimes. He was no warmonger. He was deeply concerned about the well-being of the human race.

Lindsey was a genuine American patriot who loved our country, was loyal to our people, and was committed to our allies — Israel, Ukraine, Taiwan, NATO, and more.

Lindsey was a true friend and leader. We spent a lot of time on the phone and texting the last few years as he reached out to me often. It was an honor to endorse his reelection when others would not.

He adored President Trump and was so proud of their friendship. And he gave the President outstanding advice through thick and thin. He wanted President Trump and our country to succeed.

I’m going to miss him a great deal. I already do. He leaves a huge void. I’ll have more to say tomorrow on radio and Hannity.

Thank you, Lindsey, for a life well lived. May God bless his family.”

Statement from Mayor Samuel Nahmias
Village of Lawrence, New York

The Village of Lawrence is deeply saddened by the sudden passing of United States Senator Lindsey Graham. On behalf of the Board of Trustees and the residents of our village, we extend our heartfelt condolences to his family, friends, staff, and the people of South Carolina during this time of profound loss.

Senator Graham dedicated his life to public service and was a steadfast advocate for freedom, democracy, and moral clarity. He understood the importance of protecting our nation’s borders and recognized the serious consequences that arise when the sovereignty of a nation is threatened or violated. His unwavering commitment to national security and the rule of law earned him the respect of many throughout the United States and around the world.

He was also one of Israel’s strongest and most consistent allies in the United States Senate. Senator Graham firmly believed in Israel’s right to defend itself against terrorism and aggression and worked tirelessly to strengthen the enduring alliance between the United States and Israel. His leadership, conviction, and willingness to stand firmly for what he believed was right will leave a lasting legacy.

To many, Senator Graham was more than a distinguished public servant—he was a trusted friend, a principled leader, and a tireless advocate for justice, security, and democratic values. His passing is a tremendous loss, and he will be greatly missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him and working alongside him.

As a mark of respect and remembrance, the Village of Lawrence will lower its flags to half-staff as we mourn the loss of Senator Lindsey Graham and honor his lifetime of dedicated public service.

May God grant comfort to his family and loved ones during this difficult time, and may his memory forever be a blessing.

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

Best Regards,

Mayor
Samuel (Shlomo) Nahmias

By 5 Towns Central Staff

LAWRENCE, N.Y. (July 12, 2026) — Area residents can look forward to pleasant summer conditions as the weekend comes to a close, with moderate temperatures and mixed skies setting the stage for a smooth transition into the upcoming workweek across the region.

Atmospheric patterns indicate a comfortable stretch of weather for afternoon outdoor plans, with daytime highs expected to reach the mid-80s under a combination of sun and passing cloud cover. As evening approaches, conditions will remain mild, with overnight temperatures dipping into the upper 60s beneath partly cloudy skies, providing a relief from typical mid-summer humidity.

Heading into Monday morning, weather patterns will maintain a variable mix of sun and clouds throughout the area. High temperatures are forecasted to hover around 86 degrees, accompanied by a light to moderate afternoon breeze that will keep conditions feeling seasonable for commuters and outdoor activities.

Meteorologists suggest these steady summer trends will persist through early in the week before warmer air masses gradually build across the tri-state area. Local officials remind residents to stay hydrated and take standard precautions during peak afternoon sun hours.

By 5 Towns Central Staff

NEW YORK, N.Y. (July 12, 2026) — Municipal authorities and legal administrators have initiated a joint preliminary inquiry into a major structural failure at a 37-story commercial high-rise in Midtown Manhattan. The investigation follows a serious incident earlier this week when internal load-bearing support elements buckled on upper levels, triggering emergency evacuations across several surrounding blocks and raising significant structural safety concerns.

The inquiry centers on 235 East 42nd Street, the former headquarters of a major pharmaceutical corporation, which is currently undergoing a massive transformation into a 1,600-unit luxury residential complex. Recognized as the largest commercial-to-residential redevelopment effort in the country, the project involves adding an 11-story vertical extension atop the original 22-story frame. Emergency responders descended on the site after site inspectors noticed severe bending in major steel framing elements along the 21st floor, alongside widespread floor sagging and interior cracking.

Safety personnel immediately established a wide security perimeter, temporarily evacuating nearby commercial properties, residential structures, and a local educational facility housing hundreds of students. Emergency shoring teams worked through subsequent shifts to install heavy-duty metal supports from lower levels up to the roof line, successfully halting further structural movement and allowing perimeter roads to gradually reopen. Municipal building officials confirm that while the immediate risk of localized collapse has been mitigated, comprehensive technical inspections are ongoing.

Project developers maintained that the core structure remains intact and attributed the failure to localized installation errors rather than a fundamental design flaw, asserting that the multi-year redevelopment remains on track. However, labor organizations and building critics raised concerns over site management practices, pointing to previous administrative safety notices filed at the location. Local leadership pledged a thorough investigation into the root causes of the structural failure, noting that municipal reviews will examine whether engineering calculations or construction execution contributed to the incident. Municipal authorities confirmed that formal charges have not been filed as forensic engineering analyses continue.

By 5 Towns Central Staff

TEL AVIV, Israel (July 12, 2026) — Defense officials in Israel have outlined a broad operational posture aimed at addressing regional security threats, emphasizing readiness for potential unilateral actions against external adversaries while significantly expanding military control within surrounding conflict zones.

On the strategic front regarding Iran, military analysts assess that foreign nuclear developments remain halted following earlier targeted operations. However, defense leaders confirmed that the Israeli Defense Forces have been instructed to maintain high operational readiness for independent military strikes should regional conditions shift or threats re-emerge. Official evaluations indicate that while no active nuclear production is currently underway, strategic planning remains focused on preventing any future attempts to rebuild offensive capabilities.

Concurrently, ground operations across the Gaza Strip have expanded, with security forces now maintaining an active presence in more than 60 percent of the territory. Defense authorities stated that establishing permanent security corridors and buffer zones has become a core element of national defense policy. By utilizing targeted tactical models previously deployed in areas such as Rafah, Beit Hanoun, and Khan Younis, military forces aim to dismantle hostile infrastructure and prevent militant groups from re-establishing operational strongholds. Similar security measures are also actively underway in northern Samaria to neutralize localized insurgent networks.

Along the northern border, defense posture remains equally firm, with military assessments indicating that extensive structural damage in southern Lebanon will prevent displaced residents from returning to border communities for the foreseeable future. Authorities confirmed that systematic demolitions of militarized border structures will continue as part of a long-term strategy to neutralize covert launch positions and ensure the safety of northern Israeli towns. Defense strategists emphasize that these coordinated actions across all sectors reflect an overarching mandate to establish durable security boundaries and eliminate active threats to civilian populations.

Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz on Lebanon:

I said that Southern Lebanon would become Gaza. We would apply the Rafah model.

We would destroy everything there. We would deal with them in exactly that way.

And that is what we did.

The infrastructure has been destroyed.… pic.twitter.com/8JEXBGYtZc

— Clash Report (@clashreport) July 11, 2026

Israeli Defense Minister Katz: We've turned southern Lebanon into Gaza

"I said that southern Lebanon would become Gaza. We would apply the Rafah model.

We would destroy everything there. We would deal with them in exactly that way.

And that is what we did."

Writer: Ian…

— Mario Nawfal (@MarioNawfal) July 12, 2026

Israel Katz: “The IDF has been instructed by the Prime Minister and by me to prepare for an independent Israeli military operation against Iran.”*

• “We are in the heart of Gaza. Our presence is expanding, not shrinking, and we have already gone beyond 60% of the territory.”… pic.twitter.com/AJBCNVXOL2

— Global Osint (@GlobalOsintNew) July 12, 2026

Israeli Defense Minister Katz on Iran:

One of the very first conditions they raise whenever negotiations begin is that the targeted killings must stop.

This Israeli method drives them crazy. pic.twitter.com/YEtyK5LUq3

— Tabz (@TabzLIVE) July 12, 2026

PM Netanyahu says Sen. Lindsey Graham “personified traditional American values” and was an “American patriot”

“He was unabashedly for America, and he was unabashedly against the enemies of America, and he spoke what he thought.”

“You know, he had a way with him. He had this charming southern drawl, and you knew something was coming when he would say, well, I’m just a poor old southern boy, and then you know he’s coming in with the most penetrating insight that few people can deny, and that everybody recognizes as the truth.”

“He had a way with him. He was a wonderful, wonderful friend, a great American patriot, and a great champion of the Israel-American alliance, and I’ll miss him personally, a lot, a lot. I really, really thought the world of him, and I think the world has lost a great human being, America has lost a great senator, and we have lost a great friend.”

JUST NOW: Israeli PM Netanyahu says Sen. Lindsey Graham "personified traditional American values" and was an "American patriot"

"He was unabashedly for America, and he was unabashedly against the enemies of America, and he spoke what he thought."

"You know, he had a way with… pic.twitter.com/J2aJMmhdjX

— Eric Daugherty (@EricLDaugh) July 12, 2026

Sara and I grieve with the American people over the loss of our dear friend, Senator Lindsey Graham.

In our recent meeting, I said, "Lindsey is a great friend of Israel and a cherished friend of mine. We have no better friend than Lindsey."

Lindsey understood that the security… pic.twitter.com/JG2mUUAfFT

— Benjamin Netanyahu – בנימין נתניהו (@netanyahu) July 12, 2026

By 5 Towns Central Staff

WASHINGTON, D.C. (July 12, 2026) — Longtime United States Senator Lindsey Graham, a leading voice in American foreign policy and a resolute champion of U.S.-Israel relations, passed away unexpectedly on Saturday evening at the age of 71 following a sudden medical emergency at his Washington residence. Emergency responders arrived at his home late Saturday night before transporting him to a nearby medical center. His office officially announced his passing early Sunday morning.

Graham, a Republican representing South Carolina in the Senate since 2003, built a decades-long career in public service defined by robust defense advocacy, interventionist foreign policy, and unwavering support for global security partnerships. Throughout his tenure in Congress, including prior service in the House of Representatives beginning in 1995, he maintained a firm commitment to the safety and sovereignty of Israel, consistently backing legislative measures to strengthen military cooperation and regional stability in the Middle East.

A graduate of the University of South Carolina and a veteran of the U.S. Air Force Judge Advocate General’s Corps, Graham first entered political life in the South Carolina State House before transitioning to national politics. Beyond his focus on international affairs, he held prominent leadership roles within the Senate, serving as chairman of the Judiciary Committee and leading the Senate Budget Committee. Over his long career, he was widely recognized for his key role in judicial confirmations, federal policy negotiations, and regular diplomatic missions overseas.

In accordance with South Carolina law, state leadership is expected to designate an interim representative to fulfill the remaining period of his Senate term, which was set for renewal in the upcoming electoral cycle. Tributes from colleagues and civic leaders across the political spectrum have begun pouring in, recognizing his extensive influence on American governance, his dedication to national defense, and his enduring ties to the international Jewish community. Funeral arrangements and memorial services are expected to be announced in the coming days.

PM Netanyahu Mourns the Passing of ‘Beloved Friend’ Senator Lindsey Graham.

Full statement below:

“Sara and I grieve with the American people over the loss of our dear friend, Senator Lindsey Graham.

In our recent meeting, I said, “Lindsey is a great friend of Israel and a cherished friend of mine. We have no better friend than Lindsey.”

Lindsey understood that the security of Israel and America are inseparable. He devoted his life to defending America, strengthening our alliance and standing up for the free world.

Israel has lost one of its greatest friends. America has lost a great patriot. I have lost a beloved friend.

Our hearts are with Lindsey’s family and with the American people at this difficult time. May his values and initiatives continue to guide us toward victory and peace, and may his memory forever be a blessing. ”

The Jewish people will always be grateful to Lindsey for his steadfast support. We wish the extended family condolences. This is a tremendous loss. “Those who bless the Jewish people will be blessed…”

Gut Vuch & Shavuah Tov to all,

By 5 Towns Central Staff

WASHINGTON, D.C. (July 11, 2026) — Military engagements across the Middle East intensified as Israeli forces carried out targeted strikes in southern Lebanon, while new economic sanctions and naval confrontations disrupted critical international shipping channels in the Persian Gulf.

In southern Lebanon, defense personnel conducted precision aerial strikes against armed operatives observed transporting anti-tank missiles into a fortified structure within a designated security corridor. Secondary explosions following the attack confirmed the presence of stored munitions inside the facility. Additional strikes targeted operatives attempting to exit an extensive underground tunnel network along the Ali al-Taher Ridge, where ground units maintain an active presence to prevent cross-border incursions.

WATCH: Hezbollah terrorists transferring anti-tank missiles within the Security Zone in southern Lebanon.

The terrorists transferred the anti-tank missiles into a structure in the area, which the IDF struck from the air in order to remove the threat.

Following the strike,… pic.twitter.com/bqGeS154OU

— Israel Defense Forces (@IDF) July 11, 2026

Concurrently, Iranian naval command declared the indefinite closure of the Strait of Hormuz after firing upon a commercial container vessel navigating the strategic waterway. The maritime attack prompted immediate retaliatory military action, with allied defense forces targeting radar installations, drone facilities, and surface-to-air missile sites across key coastal positions. Defense leaders emphasized that military pressure will continue until unhindered passage for international commercial shipping is restored.

At 7:15 p.m. ET today, U.S. Central Command forces began launching the third round of strikes this week against Iran after Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps forces blatantly attacked M/V GFS Galaxy, a Cyprus-flagged container ship transiting the Strait of Hormuz. A civilian crew…

— U.S. Central Command (@CENTCOM) July 11, 2026

BREAKING: President Donald Trump has directed a third round of U.S. strikes against Iran this week after the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps attacked a commercial cargo ship transiting the Strait of Hormuz.

CENTCOM says the Cyprus-flagged vessel sustained significant damage,… pic.twitter.com/xpvpSoc7CN

— Fox News (@FoxNews) July 12, 2026

To further constrain regional aggression, federal financial authorities issued expansive sanctions aimed at dismantling covert banking and exchange networks operating on behalf of sanctioned institutions. The targeted entities are accused of diverting public funds and facilitating multi-billion-dollar monetary transfers to support covert regional activities. The financial enforcement measures coincide with stalled diplomatic mediation efforts in Oman, where international negotiators failed to reach a binding agreement to secure the shipping corridor. Foreign leadership continues to condition the reopening of the vital trade route on the total withdrawal of Western military assets, while defense officials warn that attempts to block the international waterway will draw sustained military and economic consequences.

Besuros Tovos!

Gut Vuch & Shavuah Tov to all,

By 5 Towns Central Staff

WASHINGTON, D.C. (July 11, 2026) — Military engagements across the Middle East intensified as Israeli forces carried out targeted strikes in southern Lebanon, while new economic sanctions and naval confrontations disrupted critical international shipping channels in the Persian Gulf.

In southern Lebanon, defense personnel conducted precision aerial strikes against armed operatives observed transporting anti-tank missiles into a fortified structure within a designated security corridor. Secondary explosions following the attack confirmed the presence of stored munitions inside the facility. Additional strikes targeted operatives attempting to exit an extensive underground tunnel network along the Ali al-Taher Ridge, where ground units maintain an active presence to prevent cross-border incursions.

WATCH: Hezbollah terrorists transferring anti-tank missiles within the Security Zone in southern Lebanon.

The terrorists transferred the anti-tank missiles into a structure in the area, which the IDF struck from the air in order to remove the threat.

Following the strike,… pic.twitter.com/bqGeS154OU

— Israel Defense Forces (@IDF) July 11, 2026

Concurrently, Iranian naval command declared the indefinite closure of the Strait of Hormuz after firing upon a commercial container vessel navigating the strategic waterway. The maritime attack prompted immediate retaliatory military action, with allied defense forces targeting radar installations, drone facilities, and surface-to-air missile sites across key coastal positions. Defense leaders emphasized that military pressure will continue until unhindered passage for international commercial shipping is restored.

At 7:15 p.m. ET today, U.S. Central Command forces began launching the third round of strikes this week against Iran after Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps forces blatantly attacked M/V GFS Galaxy, a Cyprus-flagged container ship transiting the Strait of Hormuz. A civilian crew…

— U.S. Central Command (@CENTCOM) July 11, 2026

BREAKING: President Donald Trump has directed a third round of U.S. strikes against Iran this week after the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps attacked a commercial cargo ship transiting the Strait of Hormuz.

CENTCOM says the Cyprus-flagged vessel sustained significant damage,… pic.twitter.com/xpvpSoc7CN

— Fox News (@FoxNews) July 12, 2026

To further constrain regional aggression, federal financial authorities issued expansive sanctions aimed at dismantling covert banking and exchange networks operating on behalf of sanctioned institutions. The targeted entities are accused of diverting public funds and facilitating multi-billion-dollar monetary transfers to support covert regional activities. The financial enforcement measures coincide with stalled diplomatic mediation efforts in Oman, where international negotiators failed to reach a binding agreement to secure the shipping corridor. Foreign leadership continues to condition the reopening of the vital trade route on the total withdrawal of Western military assets, while defense officials warn that attempts to block the international waterway will draw sustained military and economic consequences.

Besuros Tovos!

Agudath Israel of America welcomed more than 200 community leaders, activists, elected officials, and government representatives to its New York Legislative Meet and Greet on Tuesday evening, reaffirming the organization’s commitment to advocacy and the enduring strength of New York’s Orthodox Jewish community.

Against the backdrop of the New York City skyline, and against the backdrop of rising antisemitism both in New York and around the world, the evening carried a message of resilience and determination.

Setting the tone in his opening remarks, Agudath Israel board member Chaskel Bennett declared, “We are not going anywhere.”

He continued, “We will stand up for ourselves. We will stand up for our community. We will stand up for the Jewish people and for our Jewish identity. We will do so with grace, dignity, courage, and confidence. We will never be intimidated into silence, and we will never apologize for who we are or for standing up for what is right.”

Mr. Sol Werdiger, Agudath Israel’s Chairman of the Board highlighted Agudath Israel’s role as a national advocacy organization, including its efforts across 13 states and its continued work with government leaders in Albany, New York City Hall, Washington, D.C., and beyond. He pointed to recent advocacy successes, including New York Governor Kathy Hochul’s intention to opt into the Federal Scholarship Tax Credit program, which will provide new opportunities to support students and families across the state.

During the program, Agudath Israel presented a mezuzah to New York City Council Speaker Julie Menin in recognition of her steadfast friendship and unwavering support of the Jewish community, particularly her leadership in advancing initiatives to help keep Jewish New Yorkers safe.

Speaker Menin addressed the alarming rise in antisemitism and reflected on her personal connection to the issue as the daughter and granddaughter of Holocaust survivors, reaffirming her commitment to standing with the Jewish community.

New York City Comptroller Mark Levine was also honored with a mezuzah in appreciation of his many years of friendship and consistent support for the Jewish community. In his remarks, Comptroller Levine praised the Jewish community’s enduring contributions to New York City and echoed the evening’s central theme.

“We are not going anywhere,” he said. “We are part of the past of this city. We are part of the present of this city. We will be a part of the future of this city.”

Congresswoman Yvette Clarke (D NY-9) also addressed attendees, reaffirming her commitment to combating antisemitism and protecting Jewish communities.

“I am resolute that bigotry, violence, discrimination, and any prejudices toward the Jewish communities of America and our world will never be tolerated, never be accepted, and I will continue to fight to ensure that Jewish families and communities are respected and protected,” she said.

At Agudath Israel’s NY legislative meet & greet, board member @ChaskelBennett drew a clear red line for media, podcasters and elected officials: demonizing Jews through inflammatory and incendiary rhetoric is unacceptable. Such language has no place in public discourse, and those… pic.twitter.com/zErvXbjsYN

— Agudath Israel of America (@AgudahNews) July 9, 2026

"We are not going anywhere!”

Agudath Israel board member @ChaskelBennett sets the tone at Agudah’s NY legislative meet and greet. pic.twitter.com/UM4wqtG1rJ

— Agudath Israel of America (@AgudahNews) July 9, 2026

By 5 Towns Central Staff

NEW YORK, N.Y. (July 10, 2026) — A scheduled diplomatic session between senior municipal figures from the mayoral administration and international representatives from Iran was abruptly canceled following direct intervention by federal authorities. The meeting, which was arranged by the leadership of the city’s specialized international relations department, was intended to occur earlier this week at a commercial facility near the United Nations headquarters before federal foreign policy administrators intervened.

Reports indicate that regional administrators within the municipal agency finalized a calendar appointment to hold formal discussions with the permanent Iranian envoy. However, federal diplomatic officials were not briefed on the local initiative beforehand. Upon discovering the arrangement, representatives from the federal executive department initiated a prompt meeting with municipal leadership to clarify the legal boundaries governing local governance and foreign affairs, resulting in an immediate directive to terminate the engagement.

Internal reviews reveal that the head of the municipality was completely unaware of the independent scheduling arrangement prior to the federal notifications. Following the disclosure, the primary commissioner responsible for arranging the session received a formal administrative reprimand for attempting to coordinate high-level foreign interactions without appropriate authorization or communication.

In a public statement responding to the scheduling controversy, representatives from the municipal agency affirmed that the engagement was permanently dismantled and would not proceed under any circumstances. Observers note that the incident highlights ongoing tensions surrounding local administrative attempts to engage in international discussions that traditionally fall under federal jurisdiction, particularly involving nations experiencing diplomatic strain with the country. The municipal department, originally designed to foster global trade and share localized infrastructure practices, faces heightened scrutiny regarding its operational priorities and adherence to administrative protocol.

By 5 Towns Central Staff

UNION, N.J. (July 10, 2026) — Regional emergency medical first responders have issued an urgent public safety alert to families following multiple emergency calls involving a specific brand of children’s candy. Emergency personnel from Hatzalah responded to several critical incidents where young children experienced airway obstructions while consuming Zazers Pop Lick Tutti Frutti candies, prompting the immediate community advisory.

The product features a pacifier-shaped hard lollipop design that medical responders warn poses a severe choking hazard for infants and young children. Due to the physical shape and structural design of the novelty treat, the candy piece can potentially detach or become lodged in a small child’s throat, creating an immediate medical emergency. Safety officials are strongly advising parents, caregivers, and local vendors to immediately discard the product and ensure it is kept out of the reach of toddlers and young children to prevent further injuries.

Local community advocates and safety organizations are working to spread awareness of the hazard across the tri-state area, especially through neighborhood parent networks and local grocery distributors. Emergency medical technicians emphasize that choking incidents involving hard candies can escalate rapidly, and they urge families to remain vigilant regarding the types of novelty treats permitted in the home. Responders reiterate that standard pacifier-style candies should be avoided entirely for younger age groups. Residents are reminded to immediately contact local emergency numbers if a child shows signs of respiratory distress or airway blockage.

By 5 Towns Central Staff

ALBANY, N.Y. (July 10, 2026) — The New York State Attorney General’s office has filed a major lawsuit against several prominent chemical and agricultural manufacturing giants, claiming the corporations knowingly distributed hazardous substances in everyday household items. The legal action names major industry figures, including 3M, DuPont de Nemours, The Chemours Company, and Corteva, alleging that they were fully aware of the public health and environmental risks associated with their products yet failed to inform the public.

The litigation focuses on a category of synthetic compounds known as perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances, commonly referred to as forever chemicals due to their inability to naturally degrade. For decades, these compounds were widely utilized across the country to manufacture a variety of goods, including non-stick cookware, cosmetics, water-resistant apparel, and protective fabric treatments. Because these substances accumulate within the human body and the natural environment over time, scientific studies have increasingly connected them to severe medical conditions, including elevated cancer risks and childhood development issues.

According to state legal filings submitted in Albany, the manufacturers allegedly possessed internal research dating back multiple decades that confirmed the toxicity and environmental persistence of these chemicals. Despite these internal findings, the companies allegedly misled consumers and continued to aggressively market the products as safe. The lawsuit seeks to hold the corporations financially responsible for the extensive environmental damage caused throughout New York, demanding that the firms establish a dedicated fund to cover regional cleanup operations and implement clear warning labels on any remaining products that utilize the compounds.

This latest lawsuit follows previous legal developments across the region, including a multi-billion-dollar settlement reached in a neighboring state last year involving similar environmental claims against some of the same manufacturers. State officials intend to use this action to enforce consumer protection laws and protect local natural resources from ongoing chemical exposure.

By 5 Towns Central Staff

NEW YORK, N.Y. (July 9, 2026) — Work has officially commenced on the highly anticipated development of the final commercial office tower at the World Trade Center site, marking a major milestone in the decades-long physical reconstruction of Lower Manhattan. The 55-story skyscraper, which will rise to a height of 1,226 feet at 200 Greenwich Street, is slated to serve as the new global headquarters for American Express.

The start of construction comes nearly twenty-five years after the tragic events that reshaped the region. Once completed, the massive structure will encompass approximately two million square feet of space, custom-built to accommodate up to 10,000 corporate professionals. The architectural layout integrates modern environmental standards, featuring advanced smart-building technology, fully electric and energy-efficient operations, and over an acre of green spaces spread across landscaped terraces and outdoor gardens offering wide views of the skyline.

The multi-billion-dollar development represents a major financial injection into the regional economy, operating entirely without municipal tax incentives under a long-term ground lease with the regional port authority. The project is projected to generate more than 2,000 union construction jobs and over 3,200 total positions throughout its development timeline. Economic evaluations indicate the initiative will inject roughly $5.9 billion into the local city economy and over $6.3 billion into the state overall.

Situated directly adjacent to the local transit hub, the tower will provide direct access to twelve subway lines and commuter trains, reinforcing the neighborhood’s position as a vibrant center for commerce, transit, and community life. While foundational underground preparation has been progressing for several months, vertical construction is slated to accelerate in the coming weeks, with structural steel framing expected to visibly emerge over the next year. Project timelines indicate that substantial construction is scheduled to wrap up by the end of the decade, with the doors officially opening to personnel in 2031. Until the development is fully realized, the corporate tenant will maintain operations at its current nearby facility.

Ground has officially been broken on 2 World Trade Center in New York City, 25 years after 9/11. The 1,226-foot, 55-story tower, set to become American Express’ global headquarters, is expected to be completed in 2031. pic.twitter.com/bQpN0xRUyZ

— Breaking911 (@Breaking911) July 9, 2026

By 5 Towns Central Staff

NEW YORK, N.Y. (July 9, 2026) — A newly published municipal map highlighting dozens of immigrant enclaves across the five boroughs has sparked controversy regarding the criteria used to catalog the city’s diverse cultural footprint. The visual guide, released by city tourism and immigrant affairs agencies, identifies 30 distinct geographic pockets representing various international communities, ranging from long-established hubs to emerging neighborhood clusters.

The publication categorizes numerous specific cultural districts, including Little Palestine in Brooklyn, Little Poland, and various regional enclaves across Queens, Manhattan, Staten Island, and the Bronx. However, community leaders and local observers quickly noted the complete absence of historic Jewish enclaves from the graphic. Despite representing roughly 11 percent of the total municipal population, major historic and contemporary centers of Jewish life, such as Borough Park, Crown Heights, Williamsburg, and the Lower East Side, were not featured on the official chart. Go figure.

City representatives defended the publication by clarifying that the map was not intended to serve as a comprehensive historical inventory of every ethnic or religious group in the metropolitan region. According to official statements, the initiative was specifically designed as a targeted campaign to guide visitors toward neighborhoods with high concentrations of recent foreign-born residents rather than established multi-generational communities. Municipal spokespersons also noted that certain highlighted locations, such as Little Odessa in Brooklyn, encompass significant populations of Jewish immigrants from Eastern European nations.

Despite the administration’s explanation, civic advocates maintain that omitting longstanding cultural districts risks minimizing the foundational contributions of key immigrant groups who shaped the city’s modern landscape. Future municipal outreach projects should adopt a more inclusive approach that balances recent demographic shifts with the deep-rooted cultural heritage of established neighborhoods.

The Mayor's Office made a map of NYC's immigrant enclaves: Little Africa, Little Poland, Little Palestine. But they just couldn't figure out how to represent 11% of the city. Couldn't decipher where the Jews are from. Asked everyone. Huge riddle wrapped in a mystery inside an… pic.twitter.com/hdnzhtTt9T

— Avital Chizhik-Goldschmidt (@avitalrachel) July 8, 2026

The major Sepharadi corridor of South Brooklyn, Syrian, Egyptian, Lebanese, and others, from the East side of Ave. J down toward Ave. V, gets left out completely.

So does the Bukharian Jewish community in Queens, largely from Uzbekistan and Central Asia.

The Brooklyn… https://t.co/jgH0gt2vee

— Isaac Choua (@ChouaIsaac) July 8, 2026

Mamdani's "Map Of NYC" left out Little Italy but includes:

Little Africa (2x)
Little Albania
Little Bangladesh
Little Bhod-Tibet
Little Caribbean
Little Colombia
Little Dominican
Little Ecuador
Little Egypt
Little Guyana (2x)
Little Haiti
Little India
Little Manila
Little…

— End Wokeness (@EndWokeness) July 9, 2026

A win for TOLERANCE & EQUITY! Each time, Mamdani gets more & more creative on how to shun certain groups. This time, he has figuratively wiped out Italians, Jews & the Irish aka “the privileged white colonialist oppressors” politically opposed to him. What a great mayor for ALL… https://t.co/hbaHcMhPpW

— Councilwoman Inna Vernikov (@InnaVernikov) July 9, 2026

By 5 Towns Central Staff

WEST PALM BEACH, Fla. (July 9, 2026) — The primary commercial airport serving Palm Beach County has officially completed its transition to President Donald J. Trump International Airport. The structural rebranding, which stems from state legislation signed into law earlier this spring, marks a major milestone for the regional transportation hub that handles over eight million passengers annually.

While physical signage, digital branding, and road transit indicators across the area are currently being updated in structured phases, regional aviation officials confirm that daily airline schedules, flight operations, security screening, and terminal services remain entirely unaffected. Federal aviation authorities have formally updated administrative tracking identifiers for pilots, air traffic control towers, and flight navigation systems to reflect the facility’s new operational name.

For general travelers and booking platforms, a temporary transition window remains in effect. Passengers searching for flight reservations, checking baggage, or managing digital travel itineraries are advised to continue using the long-standing three-letter code associated with the facility through mid-August. International air transport regulators authorized a synchronized systemwide update to transition passenger-facing booking platforms to the new designated code on August 18, allowing domestic and international carriers sufficient time to adjust automated ticketing software without creating operational delays.

Local municipal officials emphasize that the legislative change represents a branding modification and does not alter the underlying ownership, legal governance, or day-to-day management of the facility, which remains under county oversight. Property taxes will not be utilized to cover transition costs, as administrative updates and new terminal displays are being supported through internal airport operational funds alongside state transportation assistance. Regional authorities maintain that their primary focus continues to be delivering a seamless and efficient travel experience for residents and visitors throughout the multi-phase rollout.

WATCH: At 5:01 a.m. ET today, Palm Beach International Airport was officially renamed Donald J. Trump International Airport. The airport’s code has also changed from PBI to DJT. pic.twitter.com/idOgb5oqCo

— Breaking911 (@Breaking911) July 9, 2026

Spotted in Palm Beach County, Florida pic.twitter.com/YVmPbWax1p

— The White House (@WhiteHouse) July 9, 2026

Source: Torah Anytime

Update: Please have in mind Moshe ben Dina, a community member involved in the accident yesterday, who is in need rachamei shamayim.

B’suros Tovos

—
There is currently an accident on West Broadway by Franklin Ave.

An individual was struck sadly, and we hope they are ok. EMS, Police, the Fire Department, and Hatzalah are on scene.

Besuros Tovos.

By 5 Towns Central Staff

July 9, 2026 — According to newly released national polling data evaluating political views within the domestic Jewish population, public favorability figures reveal significant internal divergences that closely correspond to religious observance and denominational affiliation. The comprehensive survey indicates that broader national averages are heavily influenced by secular and non-practicing demographics, which represent the clear majority of respondents in mainstream sampling pools.

Data drawn from the national study shows that overall favorable sentiment toward New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani stands at 44 percent among surveyed Jewish adults, while 39 percent hold an unfavorable view. In contrast, favorability for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu reached 32 percent, with 59 percent expressing negative views. Broader policy evaluations showed 70 percent unfavorable sentiment toward federal executive leadership, alongside elevated disapproval metrics concerning economic policy and international relations.

A closer examination of the underlying demographic breakdown clarifies the origin of these statistical trends. The survey framework notes that non-observant individuals make up the vast majority of participants: over a third reported never attending religious services, with an additional 36 percent attending once or twice a year at most. Furthermore, orthodox respondents represented just 10 percent of the total sample, while Reform, Conservative, and unaffiliated individuals accounted for the remaining 85 percent.

When evaluating geopolitical perspectives, 58 percent of participants affirmed that the state of Israel remains personally important to them, whereas 12 percent characterized it as unimportant. Regarding historical security events, 79 percent rejected any justification for the October 2023 terror attacks, and 73 percent affirmed the legitimacy of initial defensive military operations. However, views on ongoing regional governance and international policy split along secular and traditional lines, reinforcing analysts’ assertions that religious practice remains the primary determining factor in communal perspectives across the country.

This statistic of course mind boggling and frustrating to see the focus of some of our distant brothers and sisters.

By 5 Towns Central Staff

NEW YORK, N.Y. (July 9, 2026) — Municipal and state leadership have unveiled a broad joint initiative aimed at significantly modernizing public transit speeds and overall service reliability across New York City. The comprehensive action plan targets 50 key travel corridors spanning some of the most delay-prone routes in the five boroughs, with an overarching goal of increasing average bus speeds by 20 percent and trimming commute times by up to six minutes per trip.

According to municipal transit reports, current surface transit speeds across the metropolitan area remain heavily impacted by vehicular congestion and frequent curbside delays. To resolve these operational bottlenecks, local transportation authorities and regional transit officials are introducing dedicated street redesigns, protected travel lanes, and expanded automated camera enforcement to deter private vehicles from obstructing designated transit lanes.

A core component of the multi-year infrastructure overhaul includes establishing five specialized rapid transit bus corridors featuring center-running lanes, dedicated boarding platforms, and priority traffic signal coordination. These designated routes encompass major travel arteries, including Flatbush and Utica avenues in Brooklyn, Northern Boulevard in Queens, a high-volume cross-Bronx corridor, and an express connection linking Brooklyn to John F. Kennedy International Airport.

In addition to physical roadway modifications, the regional transit system is scheduled to phase in systemwide all-door boarding by late next year to streamline passenger entry and reduce dwell times at stops. The plan also funds physical comfort enhancements at the street level, allocating resources for hundreds of new sheltered waiting structures, thousands of additional seating benches, and real-time arrival displays. Transit representatives emphasize that these coordinated infrastructure investments will improve daily travel conditions and enhance accessibility for millions of commuters relying on surface transportation.

Mayor Mamdani promised New Yorkers fast buses and better service. We’re taking that commitment to the next level.

Next Stop: Fast Buses, Better Service is our action plan for a world-class bus system our city deserves. One that is fast, reliable, and comfortable for every rider. pic.twitter.com/gftSxLdMQh

— NYC DOT (@NYC_DOT) July 8, 2026

Mamdani responds to heckler: That’s the city I want—a city where you can heckle your public officials because the bus is running on time. pic.twitter.com/UPC08iDxqV

— Acyn (@Acyn) July 8, 2026

By 5 Towns Central Staff

NEW YORK, N.Y. (July 8, 2026) — Regional weather monitoring teams are issuing early warnings for heavy downpours and potential localized flooding expected to hit the metropolitan area over the next two days. A weather pattern carrying significant moisture is moving into the region, bringing consecutive periods of unsettled weather on Thursday and Friday.

Meteorological forecasts indicate that the most severe weather conditions will likely concentrate during the afternoon and evening hours on Thursday. While general precipitation amounts across the region are anticipated to range between a quarter-inch and three-quarters of an inch, severe localized storms could produce significantly higher accumulations. Peak periods within the strongest storm cells could see rapid rainfall rates reaching one to two inches per hour, creating conditions ripe for sudden water accumulation in poorly drained areas. In addition to precipitation, regional wind gusts could reach up to 25 mph during peak storm activity.

Emergency management officials are encouraging residents to review basic safety procedures ahead of the system’s arrival. Motorists are urged to exercise extreme caution and avoid navigating through standing water, as submerged roadways conceal hazards and can easily stall vehicles. Low-lying neighborhoods and ground-level residences face elevated risks during short-duration downpours. In particular, occupants of basement apartments and lower-level living spaces should remain vigilant, keep essential emergency items readily accessible, and prepare to relocate to higher floors if water begins to accumulate nearby.

Community members are advised to secure loose outdoor items that could be impacted by gusty winds and to ensure that nearby storm drains and gutters are clear of debris to assist with drainage. Officials will continue monitoring the system’s movement, as precise rainfall totals and localized tracks may shift as the storm front progresses across the area. Residents should stay tuned to local updates throughout Thursday and Friday as conditions develop.

By 5 Towns Central Staff

ATLANTIC CITY, N.J. (July 8, 2026) — Drivers traveling across Southern New Jersey are now navigating a fully modernized transit corridor following the complete phase-out of physical cash collection along the Atlantic City Expressway. The operational shift, which went into effect earlier this year, marks the official conclusion of traditional toll plaza operations that had been in continuous service along the 44-mile highway route since 1965.

Under the updated infrastructure network, physical barriers and manual payment booths have been entirely replaced by high-speed electronic overhead gantries. Vehicles equipped with active electronic transponders are automatically processed at standard commuter rates, while unregistered motorists are identified using automated optical license plate readers. Unregistered drivers subsequently receive paper invoices by mail via a state-managed billing structure, which includes administrative processing fees and elevated rates reflecting the operational overhead of physical mail delivery.

Regional transportation authorities emphasize that eliminating manual toll stops significantly enhances overall corridor safety by reducing severe rear-end collisions and lane-merging hazards frequently recorded near traditional collection barriers. Furthermore, removing physical plazas streamlines high-volume commuter flows—particularly during peak seasonal beach traffic—while creating necessary right-of-way clearance for future highway expansion, including planned additional travel lanes in both directions.

Industry analysts consider the successful regional implementation a critical milestone for state infrastructure modernization. Public transit experts anticipate that the transition along the South Jersey thoroughfare will serve as an operational framework for future electronic tolling upgrades on other high-traffic state highways and regional turnpikes moving forward.

This video provides detailed visual context on how the newly implemented electronic gantries and toll-by-plate billing systems operate along the Atlantic City Expressway.

“We are thrilled to announce that the Bureau of Prisons has officially begun launching its new inmate tablet initiative TODAY.

This is a tremendous step forward, and we want to express our sincere gratitude to BOP Director William Marshall and Deputy Director Josh Smith for their leadership and commitment to improving the lives of incarcerated individuals and their families. We had the privilege of meeting with Director Marshall yesterday in Washington, D.C., and once again saw firsthand his genuine desire to continue moving the Bureau in a positive direction.

These tablets will be a true game changer.

Most significantly, they will allow inmates to participate in video calls with their loved ones, giving parents the priceless opportunity to see and interact with their children face-to-face. Unlike telephone calls, which are limited by available minutes, the video calling feature will be available with unlimited minutes during designated periods of the day, allowing families to remain far more connected than ever before.

The tablets will also provide access to First Step Act programming, educational materials, and digital books, enabling incarcerated individuals to spend their time learning, growing, and preparing for successful reentry into society.

Tzedek is proud to have played a role in encouraging and supporting this important initiative, and we commend the BOP for making it a reality.”

Reporter: Will you resume Iran talks?

President Trump: “I don’t care. They can ‘talk.’ They’re wasting their time; they’re a bunch of lying guys. They’re bad people. And frankly? I don’t wanna waste my time with them. I deal with these guys — they’re liars, they’re cheats, they’re sick people, they killed 54,000 of their people protesting. I’ll let my wonderful negotiators keep talking, but I don’t see it. I don’t like these people”

WATCH: Q: Will you resume Iran talks?

Trump: "I don't care. They can 'talk.' They're wasting their time; they're a bunch of lying guys. They're bad people. And frankly? I don't wanna waste my time with them. I deal with these guys — they're liars, they're cheats, they're sick… pic.twitter.com/cUa8RtmgGg

— Raylan Givens (@JewishWarrior13) July 8, 2026

As temperatures continue to rise and scorching summer heat settles in, many of us find ourselves preparing for Shabbat with a new set of practical questions. How should we use the air conditioner on Shabbat? May one adjust the air conditioning vents on Shabbat? What if the house becomes unbearably hot, especially for young children, the elderly, or someone who is ill, may we ask a goi to turn the air conditioner?

In this article, we will explore the common halachic questions that arise regarding air conditioning on Shabbat, examining the relevant principles and the rulings of the Poskim, so that we can honor the of Shabbat while maintaining a comfortable and healthy home.

Asking a goi to turn on an air conditioner

Some Poskim of the previous generation wrote that it is generally forbidden to ask a non-Jew to turn on an air conditioner on Shabbat unless the heat is exceptionally severe. Rabbi Ben Zion Abba Shaul explains that although Halacha permitted asking a non-Jew to light a fire on extremely cold days—when temperatures are freezing—hot weather is viewed differently, since excessive cold presents a more immediate danger than heat.

However, many authorities have questioned this distinction, arguing that extreme heat can be no less dangerous and may, in some circumstances, pose an even greater risk than severe cold. As support, they cite the well-known account of Rabbi Yeudah haNasi and Antoninus. Before setting out on a journey during the summer, Antoninus asked Rebbi for a blessing. Rebbi initially blessed him, “May Hashem save you from the cold.” Antoninus responded that protection from the cold is relatively simple, since one can always put on additional clothing. Rebbi then blessed him instead, “May Hashem save you from the heat.” Antoninus replied, “This is indeed a good blessing,” acknowledging that there is no comparable protection from oppressive heat. This passage suggests that extreme heat can be more difficult to cope with than severe cold and highlights the seriousness with which it should be regarded when evaluating the halachic implications of excessive heat.

Adjusting the air conditioning vents.

On Shabbat, it is generally permissible to adjust air conditioning vents as long as the adjustments are made manually and not through electronic means. This means physically manipulating the vents without utilizing any electronic controls. One may also open or close the vents based on personal preference. However, it is important to note that these actions may impact the efficiency and power consumption of the air conditioning system.

Adjustments that increase or decrease the airflow may result in greater or lesser electricity usage, which is a subject of dispute among the poskim. The reason for this dispute is that when the air conditioner adjusts itself to the temperature at the new vents’ location, it may require additional energy consumption. Although we may not perceive the increase in electricity usage directly, it does occur, and more energy is being consumed at the power plant during that time.

According to Rabbi Elyashiv, it is not permitted to move the vents due to the aforementioned reason. However, Rabbi Aurbach holds the opinion that it is permissible because the Torah does not forbid actions that are imperceptible to the human senses, such as the subtle changes in electricity usage in this case. Additionally, it can be argued that this is considered “grama” (indirect use) of electricity since the increased fuel burning occurs at the power plant, which is located far away from the individual’s house. Furthermore, it is possible that no change occurs in electricity usage when moving the vents, and in such cases, there would be no grounds for prohibition (שמירת שבת כהלכתה פרק יג הלכה מ).

The permissibility of moving vents is not restricted by muktse (prohibition on handling certain items on Shabbat) because they are designed for adjustment. Furthermore, it does not fall under the category of building(בונה וסותר) , as it is analogous to opening and closing a window(חוט שני שבת ח״א עמוד רג) .

Of course, it is important to clarify that adjusting air conditioning vents on Shabbat is only permissible when the action is purely mechanical, and there is no activation of any electrical components involved. This means that the adjustment should be limited to manual manipulation of the vents without triggering any electrical mechanisms. In such cases, where the action solely relies on mechanical operation, it is considered permissible within the framework of Shabbat observance. Adhering to these guidelines ensures that the adjustments made to the vents align with the principles of Shabbat while maintaining a comfortable environment.

Navigating Rooms Controlled by Smart Thermostats.

Smart thermostats operate by detecting the ambient temperature in your home and transmitting signals to your heating and cooling system, prompting adjustments based on your pre-set schedule. According to poskim, it is permissible to enter a room with the awareness that opening the door may introduce warmer air, potentially causing the AC unit to activate. This is because the resulting change is considered “grama” (indirect causation), as there is a delay between the time the thermostat detects the change and responds to it.

Collecting water from the Air Conditioning System.

If the air conditioning unit spills water in the house on Shabbat, it is generally not permissible to place a bucket underneath to collect the water. This is because the spilled water is considered muktse. Placing the bucket to collect the water would render the bucket un-useful, which is not allowed on Shabbat (מבטל כלי מהיכנו).

However, in the event that the water creates a wet and unpleasant environment where people are staying, it is permissible to place a bucket to collect the water (גרף של רעי). Once the bucket is filled, one may then empty the water into a sink and return the bucket under the air conditioning unit to collect any further water (שמירת שבת כהלכתה פרק יג הלכה לט).

AC that spills water onto a garden.

In cases where the air conditioning unit spills water onto a garden or area with plants and grass, resulting in their growth, it is generally permissible. This is because the air conditioning was turned on before Shabbat, and the person is not actively engaged in any actions on Shabbat that contribute to the growth of the plants. Since the growth occurs as an indirect result of the functioning air conditioning unit, it is not considered a direct violation of Shabbat laws.

By 5 Towns Central Staff

BANDAR ABBAS, Iran (July 7, 2026) — According to newly surfaced international military reports, the United States Armed Forces have initiated a series of powerful targeted airstrikes hitting defensive infrastructure and a major airbase facility in the coastal region of Bandar Abbas. The localized military action marks a significant escalation in the ongoing regional conflict, occurring while high-level diplomatic delegations, including the American presidency, remain positioned nearby in neighboring Turkey for cross-continental security summits.

Reports indicate that the strategic deployment was executed by American naval and aerial assets operating within the vicinity of the Strait of Hormuz. The defense operations reportedly targeted critical ground installations, drone deployment stations, and airfield assets linked to regional paramilitary networks. The sudden military engagement follows multiple maritime tracking reports involving disruptions to international commercial shipping vessels attempting to navigate the narrow fuel-shipping waterway over the preceding twenty-four hours.

Regional intelligence analysts note that the renewed kinetic exchanges represent a direct challenge to the fragile multi-lateral ceasefire agreements established earlier this spring. While Western defense authorities frame the strikes as measured, defensive responses necessary to protect commercial navigation and impose heavy costs on maritime aggression, foreign ministry officials in Tehran have characterized the operations as an unprovoked violation of sovereignty.

ALl this is happeninb, while president Trump is in his hotel room in nearby Turkey. Turkish President Erdogan will probably be very delighted to hear of the renewed strikes.

U.S. Central Command forces have begun launching a series of powerful strikes against Iran to impose heavy costs for targeting and attacking commercial shipping crewed by innocent civilians in an international waterway. The U.S. strikes are in response to Iranian attacks on three…

— U.S. Central Command (@CENTCOM) July 7, 2026

Bandar Abbas Airport was a major target tonight, where a senior figure in the Islamic regime was present and from where the regime has launched missiles and drones toward neighboring countries. This regime only understands Hebrew and Arabic; it does not understand American… pic.twitter.com/RdDPTgR87T

— Amjad Taha أمجد طه (@amjadt25) July 7, 2026

UPDATE: President Trump is SAFE at his hotel in Turkey amid at least a DOZEN new retaliatory strikes on Iran by the US military

Bombs are CONTINUING to drop at this moment.

It seems Iran didn't believe the US would hit them with Trump in Turkey, but they were wrong. https://t.co/r0Q3d98LyJ pic.twitter.com/fOkibdCGN3

— Nick Sortor (@nicksortor) July 7, 2026

By 5 Towns Central Staff

BANDAR ABBAS, Iran (July 7, 2026) — The United States Armed Forces have initiated a series of powerful targeted airstrikes hitting defensive infrastructure and a major airbase facility in the coastal region of Bandar Abbas. The localized military action marks a significant escalation in the ongoing regional conflict, occurring while high-level diplomatic delegations, including the American presidency, remain positioned nearby in neighboring Turkey for cross-continental security summits.

Reports indicate that the strategic deployment was executed by American naval and aerial assets operating within the vicinity of the Strait of Hormuz. The defense operations reportedly targeted critical ground installations, drone deployment stations, and airfield assets linked to regional paramilitary networks. The sudden military engagement follows multiple maritime tracking reports involving disruptions to international commercial shipping vessels attempting to navigate the narrow fuel-shipping waterway over the preceding twenty-four hours.

Regional intelligence analysts note that the renewed kinetic exchanges represent a direct challenge to the fragile multi-lateral ceasefire agreements established earlier this spring. While Western defense authorities frame the strikes as measured, defensive responses necessary to protect commercial navigation and impose heavy costs on maritime aggression, foreign ministry officials in Tehran have characterized the operations as an unprovoked violation of sovereignty.

ALl this is happeninb, while president Trump is in his hotel room in nearby Turkey. Turkish President Erdogan will probably be very delighted to hear of the renewed strikes.

U.S. Central Command forces have begun launching a series of powerful strikes against Iran to impose heavy costs for targeting and attacking commercial shipping crewed by innocent civilians in an international waterway. The U.S. strikes are in response to Iranian attacks on three…

— U.S. Central Command (@CENTCOM) July 7, 2026

Bandar Abbas Airport was a major target tonight, where a senior figure in the Islamic regime was present and from where the regime has launched missiles and drones toward neighboring countries. This regime only understands Hebrew and Arabic; it does not understand American… pic.twitter.com/RdDPTgR87T

— Amjad Taha أمجد طه (@amjadt25) July 7, 2026

UPDATE: President Trump is SAFE at his hotel in Turkey amid at least a DOZEN new retaliatory strikes on Iran by the US military

Bombs are CONTINUING to drop at this moment.

It seems Iran didn't believe the US would hit them with Trump in Turkey, but they were wrong. https://t.co/r0Q3d98LyJ pic.twitter.com/fOkibdCGN3

— Nick Sortor (@nicksortor) July 7, 2026

“The American people do not support providing all these top-line military gifts to Erdogan and his regime. He is a national-socialist Islamist, a brutal dictator, key backer of the Muslim Brotherhood and Hamas, and a completely unreliable member of NATO (if we want to talk about NATO).

He threatened to destroy Israel the other day, and the administration not only said nothing but went ahead with the F-35 and jet engine sales AND will lift all sanctions against Turkey, and we are doing so while lavishly praising Erdogan. Erdogan is a grave threat to Greece, another NATO member.

He is close friends with Putin and the Iranian regime. And the list goes on. I’ve posted several times about this because I believe it is so troubling and will have to be dealt with by future American administrations for decades to come. It was absolutely unnecessary.”

Agree https://t.co/VWPBb31cWF

— Mark R. Levin (@marklevinshow) July 7, 2026

Putin does not. If you understand Stalin you understand Putin. I don’t think we do. https://t.co/KWPwxaS5Tx

— Mark R. Levin (@marklevinshow) July 7, 2026

It’s Christmas in Turkey. We’re piling on so many generous and expensive gifts even Erdogan is surprised.

Big mistake. https://t.co/LuXrBsX4rF

— Mark R. Levin (@marklevinshow) July 7, 2026

By 5 Towns Central Staff

NEW YORK, N.Y. (July 7, 2026) — Emergency responders and municipal building inspectors rushed to a Midtown Manhattan high-rise today after construction crews noticed structural support columns warping on the upper levels of a massive office-to-residential redevelopment project. The incident prompted the immediate evacuation of multiple surrounding structures and widespread street closures during the morning rush hour in one of the city’s busiest transit corridors.

First responders arrived at the 37-story tower on East 42nd Street, the former global headquarters of a major pharmaceutical corporation, following reports of potential debris hazards near the exterior facade. Upon entering the site, engineers and emergency crews discovered that two critical structural support columns had buckled on the 21st floor. The severe compromise has resulted in sagging floors spanning between the 21st and 26th stories, causing the entire high-rise to remain highly unstable and showing signs of minute, continuous movement.

Municipal authorities quickly established a broad safety perimeter, shutting down pedestrian and vehicular traffic across several blocks between First and Third Avenues. Out of an abundance of caution, emergency personnel ordered the evacuation of adjacent commercial facilities, apartment complexes, and a nearby neighborhood school serving roughly 400 students. All construction personnel working inside the tower were safely accounted for, and city officials confirmed that no injuries have been reported among workers or the public.

The high-rise is currently undergoing what has been billed as one of the largest commercial-to-residential conversions in the country, intended to bring over 1,600 new housing units to the area. Architectural and engineering specialists on the scene are currently deploying specialized drones to visually monitor the upper levels without risking human life. City building inspectors and independent structural engineers are actively collaborating to formulate a stabilization plan, which will include bringing in massive emergency steel beams and columns to shore up the damaged infrastructure once it is deemed safe for emergency crews to enter the interior.

BREAKING: Midtown Manhattan high rise evacuated after construction workers discover buckled columns … sagging floors and falling bricks. 42nd & 43rd streets near 2nd avenue closed as DOB assesses the danger. pic.twitter.com/294MXBdkeY

— Steven Bognar (@Bogs4NY) July 7, 2026

WATCH: Inside Manhattan building after columns buckle; NYC mayor Mamdani calls situation ‘extremely serious’ pic.twitter.com/M8nVnBFual

— Rapid Report (@RapidReport2025) July 7, 2026

A building in midtown Manhattan was evacuated after fire officials said two columns buckled and floors were sagging between the 21st and 26th floors. Several buildings nearby have also been evacuated over concerns of a potential collapse. CBS News' @lilialuciano has more. pic.twitter.com/mHMTiMjN8A

— CBS News (@CBSNews) July 7, 2026

By 5 Towns Central Staff

ANKARA, Turkey (July 7, 2026) — A sudden shift in American foreign policy has raised significant security anxieties across the Middle East following a bilateral meeting at the ongoing NATO leaders’ summit. During the diplomatic gathering, the United States presidency announced intentions to completely roll back heavy economic and defense sanctions previously imposed on the Turkish government. Furthermore, American leadership indicated a strong willingness to reconsider allowing the nation to acquire highly advanced F-35 stealth fighter aircraft, reversing a multi-year ban that had severely restricted bilateral defense cooperation.

The prospective defense agreement has drawn sharp criticism from high-ranking Israeli officials, who view any enhancement of the Turkish air force as an existential hazard to the regional balance of power. According to reports, Israeli leadership has privately and publicly urged the American administration to withhold advanced military hardware and fighter jet components from the country. Israeli defense analysts emphasize that the strategic stability of the region relies heavily on maintaining a clear qualitative military edge, which could be compromised if modern stealth capabilities are introduced to unpredictable regional actors.

Opponents of the defense deal highlight the current regime’s pattern of aggressive foreign policy rhetoric and overt alignment with controversial international organizations. Critics point out that the leadership in Ankara has repeatedly expressed hostile stances toward neighboring nations, including calls targeting the sovereignty of regional states and explicit backing for extremist entities such as the Muslim Brotherhood and affiliated militant groups. Opponents also argue that the political climate within the country frequently fosters anti-Western sentiment, casting doubt on its reliability as a strategic partner.

While American officials frame the decision as an effort to restore diplomatic ties with a crucial cross-continental ally and reward past cooperation, regional observers remain deeply skeptical. The unfolding policy reversal is expected to invite intense scrutiny from global security experts and allied nations concerned about the long-term implications for airspace dominance and stability throughout the Mediterranean and Middle East.

Netanyahu on Fox & Friends makes a plea to President Trump to not supply Turkey with F-35s because "it will upset the power balance in the Middle East, which is ultimately guaranteed by Israeli air superiority" pic.twitter.com/ulEe9iW0U6

— Aaron Rupar (@atrupar) July 6, 2026

Trump removes sanctions on Turkey. pic.twitter.com/AOOuDAzXhZ

— Kosher (@koshercockney) July 7, 2026

In a candid and thought-provoking analysis, correspondent Jake Turx, one of the most recognizable Hasidic Jewish faces in America, shares hard-earned insights drawn from fifteen years of direct engagement with tens of thousands of non-Jews across the country.

Turx challenges conventional approaches to combating antisemitism, arguing that many professional “Jew-hatred experts” misunderstand its roots. He distinguishes between grifters who profit from online outrage and ordinary people whose prejudices stem from ignorance or personal experience. Rather than relying primarily on exposure, cancellation, or political pressure, Turx makes the case for a dual approach: living with authentic Torah values to create a Kiddush Hashem on the human level, and embracing teshuvah on a deeper level.

He warns that aggressive strategies, while sometimes necessary, often backfire by reinforcing conspiracy narratives and strengthening the very movement they seek to weaken.

Full statement by Jake Turx follows below.

“As perhaps the most visibly recognizable Hasidic Jew in America today, I’ve spent the last fifteen years meeting tens of thousands of Americans who’ve never encountered a Jew before, while conducting a more comprehensive field study on antisemitism than any you’ll ever read in an academic journal. The conclusions I’ve reached is that many of the experts who’ve built careers studying Jew-hatred don’t actually understand why it exists, how it spreads or how it can be reversed.

First, many of the loudest voices in the online Jew-hatred ecosystem don’t actually hate Jews, they’re mostly in it for the grift. Jew-hatred has become their business model because outrage pays and Jews are the product.

Meanwhile, the rank and file are different. Many are predisposed to believe the worst about Jews because they’ve never actually met a Jew personally, or because of a negative experience which they’ve generalized to an entire people. So when Jews live an authentic Torah life, treat others with dignity, and genuinely strive to make a Kiddush Hashem, those assumptions often begin to crumble.

Across my years of experience, individual Jews living with authenticity and behaving with humility can accomplish more than those multimillion-dollar campaigns to “fight antisemitism.” Too often the instinct is to expose, deplatform, or destroy the lives of anyone expressing antisemitic views instead of engaging in self-reflection. And while there are certainly times when public accountability is necessary, making social and professional destruction the primary strategy often validates the grifters’ narrative that “the Jews are trying to silence us,” and instead of weakening the movement, it can deepen resentment and push ordinary followers further into it.

At the same time, Jewish tradition teaches that hatred of the Jewish people serves as a wake-up call, urging us toward teshuvah and a closer relationship with Hashem.
If we imagine that we can continue living however we please while defeating antisemitism through political power, social pressure, or public campaigns alone, we risk missing the message entirely. Worse still, as recent history suggests, when we ignore that spiritual dimension and think we can make Jew-hatred disappear through aggressive force, the consequences can be severe. (See how the international Jewish boycott against Nazi goods worked out.)

On the human level, we should engage people, build genuine relationships and make a Kiddush Hashem. On the spiritual level, we should recognize that the ultimate answer is teshuvah.

When Jews make a Kiddush Hashem, the marketplace for antisemitism begins to dry up. The grifters depend on stories — real, exaggerated, or fabricated — that reinforce the worst stereotypes about Jews. The more Jews return to Torah and sanctify Hashem’s Name through our conduct, the fewer believable stories there are to sell, the less receptive the audience becomes and the weaker the business model of professional Jew-hatred grows.

If we fail to do so, no strategy no matter how sophisticated or aggressive will protect us.”

By 5 Towns Central Staff

NEW YORK, N.Y. (July 7, 2026) — Municipal health authorities are advising residents, employees, and visitors across a large section of Manhattan’s Upper East Side to monitor themselves for respiratory symptoms following a significant spike in confirmed cases of Legionnaires’ disease. According to the latest tracking data from public health agencies, the community cluster has rapidly expanded to 23 confirmed cases since initial monitoring began earlier this month, with at least 17 individuals requiring hospitalization. No fatalities have been reported in connection with the current tracking period.

The health advisory is primarily focused on the Carnegie Hill and Yorkville neighborhoods, specifically encompassing ZIP codes 10028, 10128, and 10075. Medical professionals have also extended the precautionary advisory zone to individuals who recently frequented the eastern perimeter of Central Park between East 76th and East 97th streets.

Legionnaires’ disease presents as a severe variety of pneumonia triggered by exposure to Legionella bacteria, which thrives in warm water environments. Public health investigators emphasize that the illness is entirely non-contagious and cannot be transmitted from person to person. Environmental specialists are currently conducting widespread diagnostic testing on regional rooftop cooling towers to pinpoint the precise environmental source of the bacterial release.

Sanitary officials have confirmed that the bacterial presence is completely unrelated to municipal drinking water supplies, domestic plumbing infrastructure, or standard home air conditioning units, all of which remain entirely safe for regular household use. Instead, transmission typically occurs when individuals inhale microscopic water droplets or mist contaminated with the bacteria.

Anyone who has spent time in the designated Upper East Side sectors since late June and subsequently experiences flu-like symptoms—including high fever, persistent cough, chills, or shortness of breath—is strongly urged to contact a medical provider immediately. Early diagnostic testing is critical, as the infection responds effectively to standard antibiotic regimens when treatment is initiated promptly, particularly for high-risk demographics such as adults over the age of 50, smokers, and individuals with underlying chronic respiratory conditions.

We’re investigating a cluster of Legionnaires’ disease on the Upper East Side.

If you live or work in or have visited ZIP codes 10028, 10128, and 10075 since late June and are experiencing flu-like symptoms, contact a healthcare provider immediately: https://t.co/0rXv78p1V1 pic.twitter.com/TYmdoWJ4sm

— nychealthy (@nycHealthy) July 6, 2026

Our staff are working around the clock to inform the community and identify the source of the Legionnaires’ disease cluster on the Upper East Side (ZIP codes 10028 & 10128).

It is safe to use your AC. If you live in these ZIP codes, here’s what to know.https://t.co/0rXv78p1V1 pic.twitter.com/bzH1uytXIK

— nychealthy (@nycHealthy) July 4, 2026

Below is a recording of the drasha that Charlie Harary gave on Shiva Asar B’tamuz in the 5 Towns.

Source: Chazaq

By 5 Towns Central Staff

NEW YORK, N.Y. (July 6, 2026) — A prolonged period of triple-digit temperatures spanning several consecutive days has resulted in multiple fatalities and a sharp spike in emergency medical evaluations across New York and New Jersey. The dangerous weather system, which brought extreme conditions to the region from midweek through Saturday, prompted local municipalities to initiate emergency relief efforts as public health agencies monitored the impact.

In New York City, municipal officials confirmed that three residents lost their lives over the weekend due to heat-induced illnesses within their homes. The localized fatalities coincided with a significant surge in hospitalizations, with municipal data tracking nearly 380 emergency room visits related to heat exposure across the five boroughs during the four-day spike. In neighboring New Jersey, regional health authorities reported an estimated 29 fatalities spanning 10 different counties, affecting individuals ranging from their 30s to their 80s. A substantial portion of those affected were discovered in residential spaces lacking functioning air conditioning systems, while several others suffered fatal exposure outdoors or inside stationary vehicles.

Regional administrations enacted comprehensive safety protocols throughout the duration of the weather advisory to mitigate health risks for vulnerable populations. In the city, local public sites—including neighborhood libraries and senior centers—were temporarily converted into air-conditioned cooling spaces. Additionally, operating hours for community pools were extended, and dedicated outreach networks actively monitored high-risk demographics, including senior citizens and individuals experiencing homelessness.

Though regional temperatures have moderated following the conclusion of the specific system, regional representatives stress that seasonal risks remain elevated. Public safety agencies emphasize the necessity of ongoing community vigilance, reminding residents to check on neighbors and utilize local cooling resources as regular summer conditions persist.

By 5 Towns Central Staff

OAKLAND GARDENS, N.Y. (July 6, 2026) — Homeowners, renters, and business owners across the region who sustained property damage during the severe storms on May 20, 2026, can now apply for low-interest federal disaster loans. The financial relief program is designed to help local communities recover from the unexpected severe weather and cover structural and personal property losses that insurance may not fully address.

Under the newly active program, qualified homeowners are eligible to request financial aid up to $500,000 to cover structural repairs on their primary residences. Additionally, both homeowners and tenants can apply for up to $100,000 to replace or repair damaged personal belongings, electronics, or furniture. For the business community, including local entrepreneurs and corporations, loans up to $2,000,000 are available to address physical property destruction, inventory losses, and essential equipment replacement. Private non-profit organizations and small businesses facing ongoing financial challenges can also access working capital loans up to $2,000,000 to sustain normal operations during the recovery period.

To streamline the application process, a temporary in-person customer support center will open on Bell Boulevard starting July 7, 2026, and will remain operational until July 21, 2026. Representatives will be available on-site during designated daytime and evening hours throughout the week to guide applicants through the necessary paperwork, help upload relevant documentation, and answer specific eligibility questions. Residents can also file applications online or seek assistance through dedicated telephone helplines and specialized communication services for individuals with hearing or speech disabilities. The final window to submit applications for physical property damage will close on August 31, 2026, while the filing period for economic injury relief will extend until March 30, 2027.

For more information, please visit https://www.sba.gov/funding-programs/disaster-assistance

Rabbi Daniel Glatstein explores an often-overlooked historical connection: the impact of the American Revolution (1775–1781) on the 18th-century Jewish world, as recorded by the renowned scholar Rabbi Chaim Yosef David Azulai, known as the Chida.

In his diary, Ma’agal Tov, the Chida documented the financial crisis that swept through Europe during his travels in Amsterdam (1777–1778). He specifically noted that because the British stock market in London crashed—largely due to England’s heavy financial investment in the American colonies—wealthy Jewish patrons in Amsterdam who had invested in London suffered significant losses.

During this period, the Chida was seeking a “padrino” (patron) to support the publication of his scholarly works. He described the period as a time of great distress, noting that the market collapse made his efforts exceptionally difficult.

Despite the widespread financial instability caused by the war across the Atlantic, the Chida miraculously secured a patron, Senior Aaron, within 25 days, with a formal agreement signed by the 42nd day.

Rabbi Glatstein highlights this episode as an example of how the American Revolution had international financial consequences that affected Jewish life in Europe. He suggests that the shifting economic landscape during this era played a role in the eventual transition of Torah centers from Europe toward the United States, viewing these events as part of the “mighty and awesome acts” of Hakadosh Baruch Hu.

We can all breathe a sigh of relief, now that the sunken drain on Rockaway Turnpike has finally been fixed!

After months of 5TC-advocating, assistance from our local politicians, dozens of flat tires, and thousands of dollars of repairs…the drain is finally fixed!

We thank everyone for their assistance!

Rabbi Shmuel Zucker on Let’s Get Real with Coach Menachem Sunday July 5th.

Starting Over with Hashem: Discovering the Hashem I Never Got to Know / For Those Who Grew Up with Pressure, Fear, Guilt, or Pain—Discovering a Deeper, Warmer Relationship with Hashem

Rabbi Shmuel Zucker joins Let’s Get Real with Coach Menachem for a powerful conversation on starting over with Hashem, especially for those who grew up with pressure, fear, guilt, pain, or a painful image of Hashem. Rabbi Zucker discusses how to rediscover Hashem as a loving Father, rebuild connection through tefillah, bring warmth and fire into Yiddishkeit, and create a deeper, more personal relationship with Hashem.

By 5 Towns Central Staff

LONG BEACH, N.Y. (July 6, 2026) — New York State lawmakers have successfully secured public funding to expand specialized personal safety and self-defense education for women and girls across the South Shore region. The financial backing will directly benefit GD Force, a regional training organization based in Long Beach that focuses on equipping participants with situational awareness skills and practical defensive techniques under the leadership of Rebecca Weiss.

The legislative effort, spearheaded by Assemblyman Ari Brown and Senator Patricia Canzoneri-Fitzpatrick, highlights a growing emphasis on community-based public safety initiatives that complement traditional law enforcement. The regional representatives emphasize that personal security extends beyond standard policing, noting the importance of providing individuals with the practical tools and knowledge necessary to identify potential threats, handle challenging scenarios, and navigate their daily surroundings with elevated confidence.

Through its structured, hands-on instructional programs, GD Force empowers local women and girls with real-world techniques that can make a meaningful difference in everyday life. Advocates of the initiative point out that investing in specialized educational resources helps build more resilient neighborhoods by fostering a heightened sense of personal security and self-assurance among residents. The newly directed state resources are expected to allow the program to scale its outreach, offering more structured classes and workshops to families and individuals throughout the local area.

The collaborative funding push reflects an ongoing commitment by Assemblyman Brown and Senator Canzoneri-Fitzpatrick to deliver impactful state investments that strengthen families and improve the overall quality of life on the South Shore. By prioritizing partnerships with trusted regional instructional organizations, the lawmakers aim to ensure that women and girls have continuous access to critical safety resources, helping them feel secure and prepared each day.

By 5 Towns Central Staff

July 6, 2026 — A newly released national study indicates that a substantial majority of Jewish Americans have personally encountered antisemitism over the past year, prompting widespread adjustments to daily routines and public behavior due to safety apprehensions. According to the research data, approximately 57 percent of Jewish adults in the United States experienced some form of anti-Jewish hostility during this timeframe, impacting millions of households nationwide.

The findings document a sharp decline in perceived security, with 58 percent of respondents stating they feel less safe compared to the previous year. Exposure to hostility was particularly prevalent in digital spaces, where 59 percent reported encountering antisemitic content online, and one in ten noted that such rhetoric was directed at them personally. Additionally, 47 percent of participants reported hearing classic anti-Jewish tropes in daily life.

This environment has led many individuals to alter how they express their identity. The data reveals that 38 percent of respondents now actively conceal items that would identify them as Jewish, while 32 percent intentionally avoid sharing Jewish-related content online. Furthermore, nearly a quarter of those surveyed reported skipping Jewish events or communal observances due to security concerns. Physical threats or direct assaults affected 8 percent of participants, while over a third observed anti-Jewish vandalism, graffiti, or slurs within their local neighborhoods and workplaces. Conversely, 40 percent of respondents noted experiencing expressions of solidarity from non-Jewish neighbors or colleagues.

Community advocates and researchers point out that the data reflects a pervasive challenge where individuals who live more visibly or openly as Jews face an increased likelihood of encountering hostility. The study also measured communal consensus regarding institutional tools to address the issue, finding that 71 percent of participants believe a standardized international definition of antisemitism accurately captures the problem, with more than two-thirds supporting its official adoption by public and private organizations.

The research project, which sampled over 1,000 Jewish American adults, utilized a standardized probability panel and carried a margin of error of 3.5 percentage points. Analysts emphasize that the results underscore a critical, ongoing need for broad, non-partisan action to address safety concerns and protect cultural visibility across mainstream society.

By 5 Towns Central Staff

Israel, July 6, 2026 – According to newly surfaced figures attributed to military manpower authorities, the ongoing public narrative surrounding draft exemptions in Israel may overlook critical administrative realities. While public discourse and legislative debates have heavily centered on the charedi community as the primary source of non-conscription, internal data indicates that enlistment challenges extend significantly into non-religious sectors of society.

The statistics reveal that among all individuals who receive pre-enlistment exemptions from service, secular citizens account for approximately 46.6 percent of the total. This figure is nearly identical to the 44.7 percent represented by the Charedi community. Religious Zionists comprise the remaining 8.7 percent of those exempted. Furthermore, broader historical reviews show that as of 2022, roughly 18.4 percent of the total Jewish male population eligible for the draft did not enter active service, underscoring a wider systemic trend rather than an isolated sectoral phenomenon.

Reports indicate that non-conscription within the secular public is routinely handled through standard administrative channels, such as medical waivers, psychological deferrals, and formal individual exemptions. These categories rarely receive the same level of media scrutiny or public demonstration that characterizes discussions surrounding religious exemptions. Consequently, the data suggests that standard avoidance metrics are quietly absorbed into the system on an individual basis across the country.

Legal analysts and community advocates note that if the objective of the current oversight is to establish absolute systemic equity, the findings suggest that administrative scrutiny must be applied evenly across all demographic sectors. Singling out a specific group for political or legal pressure fails to address the parallel rates of exemption occurring throughout mainstream society. Observers emphasize that a comprehensive understanding of national service requires evaluating all legal avenues of deferral rather than focusing exclusively on one cultural segment.

In a strongly worded open letter, Rabbi Pini Dunner urges Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to halt the arrests and imprisonment of yeshiva students, warning that the current enforcement tactics are morally wrong and strategically counterproductive.

Rabbi Dunner, who has long advocated for greater Charedi participation in the IDF, emphasizes that the ultra-Orthodox community must become part of Israel’s national defense effort. However, he argues that dragging young men from their homes and criminalizing them is not the solution.

“These young men are the products of a system that leaves them with almost no legitimate alternative,” he writes. “Criminalizing them will only deepen the crisis, inflame tensions, and make a real solution more elusive.”

Instead of targeting the students, Rabbi Dunner calls on the Prime Minister to confront the root causes of the unsustainable status quo and find a wiser path forward — one that respects both Israel’s security needs and Jewish historical sensitivities.

The full letter is published below.

By 5 Towns Central Staff

BROOKLYN, N.Y. (July 6, 2026) — A veteran law enforcement officer is recovering after being struck by gunfire during an early morning confrontation over the holiday weekend. The incident occurred around 4:10 a.m. on Sunday when an armed individual advanced toward an unmarked department vehicle near the intersection of Nostrand Avenue and St. John’s Place.

The seasoned investigator, Det. Robert Karroll, a twenty-year veteran of the department who was less than two weeks away from his planned retirement, was positioned in the vehicle with fellow officers as part of a temporary holiday safety deployment. According to administrative officials, an eighteen-year-old male carrying a handgun approached the vehicle, prompting the personnel inside to exit the car and attempt to engage him.

The situation rapidly escalated into an exchange of gunfire. Multiple rounds struck the departmental vehicle, causing significant ballistic damage to the front and rear windshields as well as the passenger-side doors. During the shootout, a single round struck the veteran investigator in the upper back. Officials noted that his protective ballistic armor successfully absorbed the primary force of the impact, preventing critical injury and leaving him with a minor contusion. A second officer also sustained minor physical trauma to the face and shoulder during the chaotic encounter. Both injured personnel were transported to a nearby medical facility for treatment and are fully expected to recover.

The armed teenager fled the scene on foot immediately following the gunfire, sparking a pursuit through the surrounding neighborhood blocks. Responding officers successfully tracked the fleeing suspect down near the corner of Rogers Avenue and Union Street, where he was subdued with an electronic control device after actively resisting attempts to place him in restraints.

A nine-millimeter semi-automatic firearm was recovered at the scene of the arrest. Because the confrontation unfolded with extreme speed and unpredictability, responding personnel were unable to activate their body-worn recording equipment prior to the initial discharge of weapons, though tracking footage from nearby commercial security systems captured the suspect carrying a weapon immediately prior to the encounter.