As in years past, the Sloatsburg Rest Area on the NY State Thruway will be available this summer, first week of prayers will open Thursday June 25, 2015 as a convenient Mincha/Maariv location on Thursday evenings for those travelling upstate. The area is located on the Northbound side of the New York State Thruway, between exits 15A and 16. Community leaders, Askonim, have been working tirelessly together with NY State Police and the Thruway Authority to ensure that the area will be available for those seeking tefilla b’tzibbur on their way to the mountains.

Community leaders, Rabbi Bernard Freilich, Rabbi Abe and Joel Friedman have met with Captains of the State Police and Thruway Authority to establish the ground rules and prepare the area. Rabbi Abe Friedman, a community leader and Law Enforcement Chaplain told YWN, “We are grateful to the authorities for allowing us to use this public area. The public is asked to obey all the rules. It’s a tremendous opportunity for our community to make a true Kiddush Hashem.”

A meeting was last week, to discuss any concerns authorities may have. “We have a great understanding, and looking forward to another successful summer at the Minche Area”, said Rabbi Ave Friedman.

Minyanim at the Mincha/Maariv area will begin at 5:00 and will go on until 11:30 PM on Thursdays. Thruway personal along with Rabbi Abe and Joel Friedman will be personally supervising the area during those times. Their late father, a noted leader, Rabbi Morton Friedman, O”H, began the tradition many years ago and his sons are now proud to be able to continue his legacy. The designated area is named “Tfillas Mordche” in his honor. .

According to Rabbi Friedman, “If everyone cooperates with the simple rules listed below, we will be able to maintain utilizing the area for a long time to come.”

The public is asked to obey the following rules:

1. All vehicles should be parked on the upper level of the parking lot only. The upper level has been designated as the minyan area as it is more private and will not disturb other travelers.

2. The Sloatsburg area is to be used for prayer only. The selling of food or merchandise will not be tolerated. Solicitations of tzedaka (collection for charity) will not be allowed. A Thruway inspector will be present at all times to enforces rules.

3. Never leave young children unattended in a vehicle, even just for a moment. They should be supervised at all times.

4. Vending machines filled with kosher food will be available on the upper level of the building.

5. Slow down and proceed with caution when approaching upper-deck area. Yield to pedestrians when parking your vehicle.

Wishing you all a safe and enjoyable summer!

(YWN Sullivan County Newsroom)