With a serious storm currently hitting the Lakewood area just two days before Purim, the Township Committee held a meeting with all agencies to ensure that the entire community has as safe of a Purim as possible. YWN spoke with Township Committee member Meir Lichtenstein, who relayed the following information on behalf of the Township Committee: The Public Works will be doubling their efforts in snow removal, and request that residents please keep their cars parked in the driveways and on their properties ONLY. This is in effect starting Thursday night through Motzei Shabbos. It will be impossible to properly plow the streets in time for Purim with all the cars parked on streets. In areas where there is no option of driveways, please try to keep all cars on one side of the street. ON PURIM DAY (SUNDAY) THE FOLLOWING INTERSECTIONS WILL HAVE CROSSING GUARDS FOR YOUR SAFETY: Madison Ave. & 9th Street   9:30 A.M.-5:00 P.M. Monmouth Ave. & 7th Street  9:30 A.M.-5:00 P.M. Clifton Ave. & 9th Street   9:30 A.M.-5:00 P.M. Case Rd. & 14th Street      9:30 A.M.-5:00 P.M. Tanglewood & 14th St.       9:30 A.M.-2:00 P.M. Forest Ave. & 6th Street    9:30 A.M.-5:00 P.M. Forest Ave. & 7th Street    9:30 A.M.-5:00 P.M. Forest Ave. & 9th Street    9:30 A.M.-5:00 P.M. Forest Ave. & 14th Street   9:30 A.M.-5:00 P.M. Princeton Ave. & 7th Street 9:30 A.M.-5:00 P.M Princeton Ave. & Squankum   9:30 A.M.-5:00 P.M. Courtney & Clifton Ave.     9:30 A.M.-5:00 P.M. M.L.K. Dr. & Pine Street    9:30 A.M.-5:00 P.M. Park Ave. & 7th St.         9:30 A.M.-5:00 P.M. Light Towers will be set up at the following locations:   14th St and Forest Avenue 14th St and Case Rd 14th St and Cedar Row   SPEED BOARDS WILL BE OUT AT:   Sunset Avenue (southbound) 14th St (westbound)   ALTERED TRAFFIC PATTERNS: 6th St will be one way westbound from Forest Avenue to Lakewood Avenue Lawrence Avenue will be one way Northbound from East 9th Street to East 11th Street   Lakewood Police Chief Rob Lawson sent the following statement to YWN: “Pedestrians should be very cautious in crossing streets since the roadways will undoubtedly be slippery from the snowstorm that we are currently experiencing. Please insure that children’s Purim costumes do not obstruct their vision and that reflective belts are worn by all during the hours of darkness.   The police department will be maintaining its zero tolerance policy concerning arrests for DWI, so please do not drink and drive.” The Lakewood Township Committee wishes everyone a Safe and Freilichen Purim. (Dov Gordon – YWN)

In light of the fire in Boro park that left a child fighting for her life, and another fire which destroyed a home in Flatbush, Hagon Rav Yechezkel Roth Shlita (Karlsburg Rov) issued the following Psak Halacha regarding Chanukah Licht. If someone is going to leave his home after lighting his Menorah, he should do so after thirty minutes from candle lighting and must extinguish the menorah after that. Do not leave a Menorah unattended for a minute. THE FOLLOWING SAFETY TIPS WERE POSTED BY YWN BEFORE CHANUKAH As Chanukah approaches, here are some important safety tips to ensure you have a happy and safe Chanukah:When lighting the Menorah: • Never leave Chanukah candles unattended and never go to sleep while Chanukah candles are burning • Place the menorah on a sturdy heat resistant surface away from anything that can catch fire including walls, curtains, cabinets, wooden and plastic tables, tablecloths, etc • Light candles out of children’s reach and where they cannot be knocked over! • Keep surfaces and surrounding areas clear from burned matches, wick trimmings, oil residue, and other debris • Never light “school project” menorahs made from flammable materials (wood, plastic, paper, etc.) When cooking Latkes: • Keep small children away from hot oil and cooking areas • Keep pot handles turned inward and away from the edge of the stove • Use extra caution when carrying hot food around children • Designate ovens, stoves and heat containing appliances as NO GO ZONES for children • Keep hands, hair and sleeves away from open flame • Never put water on a grease fire, use a fire extinguisher and call the Fire Dept. emergency number • Treat burns immediately by cooling with cool water (not cold) and call your local emergency response number Always remember: • Supervise children at all times, especially around lit candles, flames, and hot appliances • Have working smoke detectors • Have/ and practice a family fire emergency escape plan with a designated family meeting area outside of house • Proper fire safety planning and prevention can help keep you and your family safe (Brought to you by Maccabee Aish, Inc. / Jewishfireprevention.org) Ah Freilichen Chanukah!

As YWN has reported, a Topeka-based hate group (Westboro Baptist Church) is targeting Brooklyn Jews with a barrage of hate-filled demonstrations this week. The anti-Semitic, anti-gay organization plans to picket five Shuls in Brooklyn this coming Shabbos, the day before Yom Kippur. The group is on a four-day visit to New York, where they’ll demonstrate at 19 locations, mostly synagogues, around the city and Long Island – including Great Neck. They plan to assemble on sidewalks and sing anti-Jewish songs and display signs with slogans such as “God Hates Jews” and “America is Doomed.” Hate-filled members of the group say that they have now decided to target Jews in Brooklyn because “there are 1.6 million Jews in New York and Brooklyn so we need to go there.” The first of the five Shuls the group plans to picket on Shabbos is Cong. Shomrei Emunah in Boro Park. Many anonymous emails & text messages are going around the community, with one of them reading: (unedited) “Hitler is coming to town. plz come out and show your support for us jews at 14th ave and 52nd street. at 830 shobbes morning. me yichye umi yumis….. plz pass it on people have to know whats going on” YWN spoke with NYS Assemblyman Dov Hikind today about the Boro Park demonstration. “My office has recieved more calls about this, than almost any other issue that I can remember,” Hikind said. “People are very concerned, and rightfully so. I was driving down Canal Street in Manhattan on Thursday and came across the group with their anti-Semitic and hate-filled posters demonstrating. It absolutely sickened me. “I plan on walking in from Flatbush to Boro Park on Shabbos morning to make sure that this thing does not get out of control. I would like nothing more than to see this demonstration go peacefully, and I will just be the only Jew standing there. Although it hurts and pains me to see this sick group specifically protest in Boro Park (a neighborhood filled with Holocaust survivors) just one day before Yom Kippur, I still hope that no Jews show up to confront them.” Rabbi Beirish Freilich told YWN “I strongly urge people in the community to ignore the small group of protesters, and not even walk near the demonstration. It can only lead to a Chillul Hashem!” Simcha Felder tells YWN that upon consulting with a prominent Gadol, he was instructed to tell people not to walk near the protest whatsoever. Highly credible sources tell YWN that the NYPD will have a zero-tolerance level on both sides, and urge everyone to not break the law, and remain calm. Additionally NYPD tells YWN that people would be better off not coming to counter-protest, as they will just be giving them a “platform” and will encourage them to return to Boro Park again. (Yehuda Drudgestein – YWN)

Due to the UN general Assembly in Manhattan, one of the areas commonly used for Tashlich in Brooklyn is partially unavailable. The area used on the pier located at 58th Street and 1st Avenue is being utilized by the NYPD. As of this posting, only school busses are being allowed into the pier. No private vehicles whatsoever are being allowed to drive in. People can either take the B11 bus, which drives directly onto the pier, or the best option is using the second location used for many years, and arranged by the NYP. This location is the Belt Parkway, between the 14th Avenue Exit, and Toys R Us, on Bay Parkway. The grassy area along the Belt Parkway will be opened for people starting at 4:00PM today (Thursday). The NYPD will have numerous officers directing traffic, and Misaskim has graciously volunteered to lend their light-towers to ensure that the area is illuminated. The NYPD will be providing security to the large crowds by land, air, and water. Much thanks must be given to Special Assistant to the Superintendent of the NYSP Rabbi Bernard Freilich, NYPD Brooklyn South Chief Joseph Fox along with his staff at PBBS – most notably Sergent Ira (Yitzy) Jablonsky, and the Misaskim organization – for coordinating the police resources. (Eli Gefen / YWN-112)

[Click HERE for photos] Monroe, NY – Over a dozen Jewish community leaders and clergy from throughout New York State gathered last night near the Village of Kiryas Joel in a private setting, to honor New York State Police Superintendent Harry J. Corbitt. Participants, joined by numerous sheriffs and other law-enforcement personnel, hailed Superintendent Corbitt for his role in monitoring safety and security at the Sloatsburg Rest Area on the New York State Thruway, a stop heavily trafficked by the state’s sizable Orthodox community, especially during the summer season. Thousands of New Yorkers of all faiths travel to the Catskills every Thursday night throughout June, July and August-and as such, the state’s Thruway Authority designated an area at the Sloatsburg stop for afternoon/night prayers between 4:00 p.m. and 12:00 a.m. At the gathering, participants also expressed deep gratitude to Superintendent Corbitt, First Deputy Superintendent Pedro Perez, and Commander Robert Meyers of the New York State Police’s Troop T for their remarkable accommodations for religious travelers. “It is my great honor to be here tonight with the Friedmans. Rabbi Morton Friedman and his son Abe have given guidance to me and many of my staff and members of the New York State Police,” said Corbitt. “I also thank all community leaders for this great award that you have given to me. [As for] the Minchah area, I will continue to make sure all communities from all faiths have a safe and secure environment at the Sloatsburg area.” “Throughout the summer season, the New York State Police, under the stewardship of Superintendent Harry Corbitt, have shown a sustained and commendable devotion to maintaining the well-being and protection of travelers of all faiths. Their gallant efforts are immensely appreciated by every member of the community they serve so nobly,” said Rabbi Morton Friedman, activist and Jewish chaplain for the New York State Troopers PBA who oversees the prayer area. Longtime New York State Police Special Assistant, noted activist Rabbi Bernard Freilich said, “The entire New York State Police and its members are appreciated for their devotion and professionalism shown to the greater Jewish community.” “I’m here tonight to participate in honoring the New York State Police for their great deeds of working with the Jewish community,” said State Sen. Eric Adams. “As a senator involved in many communities I can state: I’m proud to be a part of this community and I’m proud to be a part of the work of great leaders like Rabbi Morton and Abe Friedman. They are true leaders and an example of building bridges between the community and law enforcement throughout New York.” Some others participating in the event, were Catskills Hatzolah Coordinator Bernie Gibs. Sullivan County Sheriff Chaplain Simcha Bernath, Abe Friedman – Sullivan County Special Assistant, Rensselaer County Sheriff Chaplain Rabbi Joel Lefkowitz, Williamsburg Shomrim Coordinator Jabob Itzkowitz, NYC Sheriff Chaplain Joel Friedman, and others. (YWN Desk – NYC)

[Click HERE for photos] This past Saturday night, a Jewish resident of the “Kiryas Avreichim” complex in South Fallsburg was suddenly assaulted by three local teens while leisurely walking on Elm Road. They began yelling anti-Jewish slurs, and punched him in the face. The innocent victim blacked out, and upon regaining consciousness started screaming for help. Neighbors from the Jewish complex quickly ran to his aid, and upon their arrival, the teens started fighting with them as well. The teens eventually fled the scene, but promised that they would return. The Fallsburg Police Department responded to the scene, and detectives began an investigation. A meeting was held on Sunday morning between Fallsburg Police Chief Simmy Williams, Sullivan County Sheriff Mike Schiff & Undersheriff Eric Chaboty, Rabbi Bernard Freilich (NYSP), Rabbi Joel Gold (NYS-DEC Police Chaplain), and Rabbi Simcha Bernard (Chaplain Sullivan County Sheriff). Chief Williams promised to add additional patrols and have the teens found and brought to justice. The Sheriff Department offered their services as well. As they had promised, the teens returned on Sunday night, walked into the parking lot of the complex, assaulted a Jewish man sitting in his car, threw him out, and stole the vehicle. Fallsburg Police responded instantly, and the vehicle was located a short while later. Detectives began an intense investigation, and on Monday afternoon, three arrests were made; two 14-year-olds, and one 15-year-old were charged with the following: Robbery in the 2nd degree, Grand Larceny in the 3rd Degree, Assault on Saturday night, Assault on Sunday night, and Criminal Mischief. “I’m glad we were able to arrest these three teens before they attacked another victim”, Chief Williams told YWN. YWN commends Chief Williams, the detectives of the Fallsburg Police Department, and the Sullivan County Sheriff Department who did an outstanding job in apprehending these vicious thugs. (Yehuda Drudgestein – YWN)

Many YWN readers recall the many problems which occurred in the summer of 2007, at the Thursday night Mincha/Maariv gathering location at the Sloatsburg Rest Area (on the NY State Thruway). YWN had posted letters and warnings from the NYS DOT and the NY State Police pleading with everyone to cooperate – or the area would be shut down. Much hard work was put into keeping this area open to the thousands of folks travelling to the Catskills. Numerous meetings and planning went into it, and all that was needed was a bit of cooperation from the people who are using it. Boruch hashem, everyone cooperated in 2008, and now Askonim are asking for your cooperation in the the summer of 2009. YWN has spoken extensively with Mr. Richard Newhouse, who is the Assistant NY Division Director of Operations with the NYS Thruway Authority, and with Rabbi Bernard Freilich, special assistant to the Superintendent of the New York State Police regarding this issue. Due to the tremendous crowds and traffic caused by the Minyanim, the Thruway Authority will no longer allow the street level parking area for davening. All minyanim will now take place on the second level parking area which is level with the second floor restrooms. In the event of rain, minyanim will be allowed in the stairwell. Everyone who will be participating in the Minyanim is urged to drive directly to the second floor – and not park on any grassy area – or your cars will be towed immediately from the tow truck which will be stationed at the rest area specifically to deal with this problem. It is interesting to note, that the second floor is much better suited for the Heimish Oilam’s needs, as there is much more privacy, Tzinus, and easier access to the rest rooms (which are located on the same level). Additionally, there will be zero tolerance by the Thruway Authority and the NYSP regarding the selling of food. As YWN had reported last summer, Rabbi Freilich was working tirelessly to arrange for one vending machine to sell Kosher Le’Mehadrin products inside the building. This idea has finally come to fruition, with one machine selling Kosher products. There will also be zero tolerance with people collecting Tzedakah (AKA: panhandlers) – which is illegal. There was a recent meeting between the NYS Thruway Authority, Askonim, and New York State Police Officials – including NYSP Troop T Major Robert Meyers, & Captain Eveleyn Mallerd. Rabbi Morton Friedman (Chaplain for the State Troopers PBA) who gave his time each Thursday night during the summer of 2008 to ensure that things run smoothly at the area, will I”H once again be present at the Mincha Area, and will liaison with Thruway Inspectors and the community to ensure that everyone follows the simple instructions. Rabbi Freilich is asking everyone for their cooperation. “Please use the area which was so wonderfully given to us by the NYS DOT – for Davening ONLY. Do not make a Chillul Hashem by ignoring their complaints which will result in this Mincha / Maariv area being shut down,” Rabbi Freilich told YWN. Each Thursday night, there will be two inspectors from the Thruway Authority stationed at the Sloatsburg Rest Area – along with Rabbi Mordechai Friedman, to oversee the operation. Wishing you all a wonderful

[PHOTO LINK BELOW] Middletown, NY – The summer is quickly approaching, folks are getting ready to head to the Catskills, and various Askonim are hard at work to ensure a safe summer. To achieve that goal, the annual inter-agency meeting took place on Tuesday at the State Police Headquarters in Middletown, NY. A YWN reporter was privileged to attend the usually closed-doors meeting and reports the following: The annual meeting, is jointly arranged and coordinated by Rabbi Bernard Freilich, Special Assistant to the Superintendent of the NYSP, and NYSP Troop F Major Rasso. In attendance this year was special guest NYS Homeland Security Director Mr. Thomas Donlon, top brass from the NYSP, Sheriff’s, Under Sheriffs & local Police Chiefs from 5 Counties, the NYS DEC, and their respective Chaplains, Hatzolah and Misaskim. Each person at the meeting was given an opportunity to address the gathering about various issues of safety, tips, and other items which they would like to see in the summer of 2009. Below are some of their highlights mentioned at the meeting: A message was delivered on behalf of the NYSP Superintendent, Mr. Harry Corbitt, who was unable to attend as he did last year. The points in his message to the community were that there would be zero tolerance for speeders, aggressive drivers, people without seat-belts, and talking on cell phones. He wishes the entire community a safe and relaxing summer.  The State Police also warned people not to walk on the roadways, and wear reflectors when walking on the roads in the evenings. and discussed the new State Police patrol which has been placed in construction zones. “The troopers are sitting in the construction zones with their radar guns, and people better be following the reduced speed-limits in those zones, or they will be getting ticketed”, Troop F Major Rasso said. The NYSP urges all camp directors to report anything suspicious, and take down any license plate number which may assist them in apprehending a suspect. “You are our eyes and ears, and we rely on you for crucial and important information in solving many crimes”. Most important on the NYSP list was the alert regarding the construction which is ongoing on Route 17. There is a temporary traffic pattern which will cause serious delays while heading to and from the Catskills on the weekends. The construction is taking place between exits 118 and 122 in both directions. While traveling towards NYC, drivers will encounter a one-lane construction pattern for a few miles. The NYSP is urging everyone to leave plenty of extra time from Thursday afternoon through Monday while traveling to and from the Catskill Mountains. The Ulster County Sheriff Department mentioned their close working relationship with Rabbi Joel Gold – who is the Ulster County Sheriff Chaplain – stating that any issue which may arise is dealt with immediately by their Chaplain. Ulster County Sheriff along with the Sullivan County Commissioner of Public Safety Richard M. Martinkovic, reached out to the community to please educate children what 911 is supposed to be used for. “Last summer was better, but we still get dozens of kids calling 911 to wish a good day”, a 911 operator said. Another issue which was brought up by the 911 system, is that many camps only have their camp or colony name written in Yiddish or Hebrew

NYS Senator Eric Adams, who chairs the commission for Homeland Security, paid a visit to the Misaskim Headquarters on Sunday afternoon, to get a first hand look at Misaskim operations. Senator Adams was given a tour of Misaskim’s state of the art equipment, their fleet of emergency response vehicles, and Misaskim’s state of the art command center. The command center was used in many occasions – including the recent Mumbai terror attacks. The Senator was told Misaskim that he was pleased to see the high-tech equipment, and preparedness that Misaskim has available to the community in any case of any emergency. Various Askonim also met with Senator Adams including Rabbi Bernard Freilich who is the Special Assistant to the NY State Police Superintendent, Abe Friedman who is a liaison to Senator Adams, Yanky Itzkowitz (Williamsburg Shomrim Cooridinator). Click HERE for photos. (Dov Gordon – YWN)

Due to the current situation in Israel, and hate-crimes happening in cities across the globe, the New York State Police reached out to YWN to ensure us that they are keeping a watchful eye on “houses of worship”, and highly populated Jewish communities under their jurisdiction. Although there is absolutely no threat to be concerned about, the NYSP Superintendent Harry Corbitt is reaching out to the greater Jewish communities across New York State to inform them that the NYSP is stepping up patrols in areas “of interest”. Special Assistant to the Superintendent of the New York State Police Rabbi Bernard Freilich told YWN that the message from Police Headquarters in Albany NY is the following: IF you see something, SAY SOMETHING! If you see a suspicious package, activity or a suspicious vehicle, don’t keep it to yourself. Immediately notify your local police department or call 1-866-SAFE NYS (1-866-723-3697). (Eli Gefen – YWN Queens Ops’ Desk)

11:00AM EST: (UPDATE BELOW) A fire on a tanker-truck hauling muriatic acid, has forced the closure of the NY Route 17, and evacuations of homes – and even Yeshivos in the area. Rabbi Bernard Freilich,Special Assistant to the Superintendent of the NYSP  tells YWN that the tanker caught fire on the west-bound Route 17 near Exit 127, causing a fire, and a large chemical spill on the highway. Both directions of the highway have been shut down, and will remain closed for at least 5 hours. Numerous Hazmat units from multiple fire departments, have been requested to the scene, and the NYSP and other rescue personnel are evacuating residents in the area. Additionally, the Nitra Yeshiva in Chester NY has been evacuated. There is no word on any injuries resulting from the chemical spill. UPDATE 5:00PM EST: The cleanup has been completed, and all lanes have been reopened on the highway. (Yehuda Drudgestein – / YWN-112 / YWN Sullivan County News Desk)

Two men who allegedly stole a $3,000 compactor from the Sunshine Estates bungalow colony in the Town of Thompson in late August, were caught as a result of the group’s surveillance cameras MidHudsonNews reports. Randall Brown, 39, and Daniel Popet, 25, both of Woodridge, were arrested by the Sullivan County Sheriff’s Office after they allegedly took the machine to a scrap metal dealer in Woodridge and sold it for $69. But, it was those computer-based surveillance cameras at Sunshine Estates that helped identify and catch the men. Colony Board President David Rosenberg told MidHudsonNews that the surveillance system provided the police with video information to identify their truck and other evidence that led to their arrests. And Rosenberg said the camera systems are invaluable. “I encourage very much people to put in cameras, especially bungalow colonies or camps where the presence is not always there like in the winter time,” he said. “There was a lot of breakings and pulling of copper pipes and metals when the price went up. So, this is a good deterrent.” He also credited Rabbi Bernard Freilich, liaison to the State Police, with assisting in the investigation that resulted in the arrests. (MidHudsonNews.com / YWN-112)

(Click HERE for photos) New York State Senator Eric Adams, New York State Assemblyman Dov Hikind, other elected officials, and leaders of the Boro Park Hasidic Community gathered at the home of Mr. And Mrs. Joel Eisdorfer on Wednesday, September 3, 2008, to recognize and honor the close working relationship, and deep commitment between the Senator and his constituents in the Boro Park Jewish community.   Assemblyman Hikind described a meeting two years ago when Eric Adams, at the time a private citizen, solicited the Assemblyman’s support in a State Senate primary election.  Assemblyman Hikind explained that he had already decided to support the bid for office, having followed the NYPD career of retired police officer Adams closely enough to know that this assistance was appropriate for an individual who had fought so assiduously and eloquently for the rights of others.  Assemblyman Hikind emphasized that the relationship has evolved into mutual esteem and brotherhood.   Speaking at the event Senator Adams said: “I am honored to be here today at the home of my community liaison, Joel Eisdorfer, along with my dear friend Assemblyman Dov Hikind and Joel’s father, Rabbi Abraham Eisdorfer. These men are more than colleagues to me. I have worked closely with them on important matters in my 20th Senatorial District and throughout Brooklyn, and our civic collaboration has been a tremendous success.  Perhaps even more important, however, is the indestructible bond of friendship we have developed, based upon reciprocal trust and affection.  It inspires the harmony of our partnership. “Joel’s hospitality this evening has enabled me to welcome and meet with some notable individuals in the Hasidic community. These leaders include the renowned Rabbi Leib Glanz, Rabbi Bernard Freilich Special Assistant to the NYS State Police Superintendent, Hon. Israel Goldberg, Yidel Perlstien, Rabbi Hershy Fischman, Rabbi Moshe Indig, Rabbi Shmuel Steinharter of Boro Park Bikur Cholim, Moshe Wieder of Ohel, David Greenfield of the Sephardic Community Federation and others.  I thank you all for your support.  I am proud to receive it. I also would like to thank NYC Councilman Matthew Eugene for joining our assemblage.” Senator Adams concluded: “The City of New York, the greatest city in the world, includes and embraces people of every race and every faith. The individuals present tonight stand united in the conviction that every moral and ethical human being champions the brotherhood of the one true race, the human race.” (Dov Gordon – YWN)

Monticello, NY: UPDATE IN EXTENDED ARTICLEYWN has learned that thanks to the outstanding detective work by the Sullivan County Sheriff Department, the people wanted in connection with the recent rash of car-break-ins have been arrested. As YWN had reported two weeks ago (HERE), more than one hundred vehicles in the Monticello area had been broken into, with the main target being GPS systems. Some of the bungalow colonies which had cars broken into were Freeds, Syms, Ichud, Alpine Estates, Beverly Hills The Sheriff Department had placed extra patrols, and assigned additional detectives to the case. Sources tell YWN, that four suspects (two males and two females) were arrested by the Sheriff Patrol on Motzei Shabbos at the former Gibbers Hotel – now the home of the year-round Viznits Community. Special Assistant to the Superintendent of the NYSP Rabbi Bernard Freilich spoke with YWN, and said that the Sheriff Department must be publicly credited for their hard work in this case. “Sheriff Mike Schiff and UnderSheriff Eric Chaboty personally spent countless hours meeting with concerned residents, and worked tirelessly to apprehend the suspects”, Freilich said. UPDATE 2:00PM EST: On Sunday August 31, 2008, at approximately 2:26 AM, Deputies from the Sullivan County Sheriff’s Office responded to a 911 call of two suspicious males, possibly breaking into vehicles at 14 Gafen Lane in Kiamesha Lake. The Sheriff’s Office, which had investigated a rash of thefts from vehicles in the Monticello area over the past 3 weeks, immediately flooded the area with patrols. A short time later at the scene, deputies noticed where grass had been trampled in a path leading to the woods and heard twigs snapping. Deputies pursued the perpetrators and eventually caught them near the basketball courts of the former Gibbers Hotel. One male subject was wearing a complete camouflage outfit and the other was dressed in dark clothes. Both were wearing plastic gloves when they were arrested. Two female accomplices, also wearing dark clothing, were discovered sitting in a car, just out of sight, at a nearby gravel bank. They were taken into custody and transported to the Sheriff’s Office for questioning. Later in the morning, Sheriff’s Detectives searched a residence located at 42 Champlin Avenue in the Village of Liberty where they recovered property including several Global Positioning Systems (GPS), cell phones and other electronics. Charged with larceny are: Raymond Castro, age 20 Monticello NY Pedro Agosto, age 18 Monticello NY Theresa Sarosy, age 19 White Lake NY Claribel Mojica, age 24 Liberty NY All four suspects where being held for arraignment at the time of this press release. The Sheriff’s Office expects additional charges to be filed as the investigation continues. If anyone has any information regarding these thefts, please call the Sheriff’s Confidential Tips Hotline at 845-807-0158. (Yehuda Drudgestein – YWN Sullivan County News Desk)

(PHOTO LINK AT END OF ARTICLE) A unique meeting took place last Wednesday afternoon following an unfortunate incident in Boro Park. As YWN had reported (HERE), a young girl was abducted on a Boro Park street two weeks ago. Following NYPD protocol, detectives from the NYPD Special Victims Unit were brought into the 66th Precinct  to interview the victim and conduct their investigation. Following the investigation (which is still ongoing), many community Askanim, along with Brooklyn South Chief Fox felt that the same way that local precinct officers know all about Shabbos, Yomim Tovim and other Jewish laws and customs – the Special Victims Unit should be given sensitivity training as well. Following the wishes of the concerned community leaders, Misaskim arranged a meeting at their state-of-the-art headquarters which was well attended by NYPD personnel including: Commanding Officer of the Special Victims Unit (Citywide) Tracy Shortell, Lieutenants of the same unit, Chief Banks (PBBS), Inspector Thursland (PBBS), 66th Precinct Commanding Officer Bill DeBlasio, Inspector the devoted men and woman of Brooklyn South’s Community Affairs Unit – including Lieutenant Jimmy Woods, Sergent Ira Jablonsky and members of the NYPD’s Commissioner Unit. Also in attendance were Special Assistant to the Superintendent of the NYSP Rabbi Bernard Freilich, Dr Marcel Biberfeld (Vice President at Mimonodies Hospital) Simcha Bernath Coordinator of Boro Park Shomrim, Bernie Gibs Coordinator of Boro Park Hatzolah, Raphael Treitel a liaison with the NYPD, Rabbi Osher Eirenreich Principle of Bais Yaakov, noted Askan Rabbi Aryeh Leib Glantz and volunteers from Misaskim. “There is nothing more important then being sensitive to the communities needs when god-forbid a tragic story like we just saw takes place”, Chief Fox said. “We will do everything to ensure that the highest level of sensitivity will be used in such a situation”. Many of the attendees had the opportunity to address the very important meeting, all expressing their concerns – and how they can very easily be corrected. A system was put into place where various professionals from various major community organizations will lecture the detectives of the Special Victims Unit on sensitivity to the Jewish Community. Additionally, should such a story Chas VeShalom take place, various professional community personnel will be contacted to respond to assist in the NYPD investigation – as sometimes victims will be reluctant to “open-up” to a strange detective. PHOTO LINK: Click HERE for photos. (Yehuda Drudgestein – YWN NYC Desk)

(PHOTO LINK AT END OF ARTICLE) Most people vacationing Upstate New York only think of Sullivan County when thinking of the Catskills, but not many folks are aware that there are many Jewish camps in Ulster County as well. In keeping with their constant “communication meetings”, to ensure a smooth summer of emergency operations, the Catskills Hatzolah Coordinators met with personnel from various agencies in Ulster County on Monday morning. As the Special Assistant to the Superintendent of the New York State Police Rabbi Bernard Freilich put it at the opening of the meeting, “Hatzolah’s great relationships with law enforcement, local FD and EMS personnel, come from three things – communication, communication, and communication”. This summer has Boruch Hashem so far been uneventful, and the few incidents which Catskills Hatzolah did respond to in Ulster County, saw Hatzolah working hand-in-hand with the local authorities. Just last week a child fell off of a truck on Dairyland Road near Route 52, and a Medevac was needed. The Ellenville Fire Chief stressed his amazement at the speed of Hatzolah’s response in that particular incident. “Working hand in hand, we save lives together”, the Ellenville Fire Chief said. Ellenville Police Chief Philip S. Mattracion spoke about the importance of “education” and how imperative it is to work together. Also publicly noted by the Chief was the very useful Liaison Rabbi Joel Gold, who also serves as the Chaplain of the Ulster County Sheriff Department. “Thanks to the devotion and dedication of Joel Gold, any issues related to the Jewish Community in Ulster County which arise, are quickly dealt with,” the Chief said The Ellenville Hospital thanked Rabbi Yankel Richter, one of the Catskills Hatzolah Coordinators, for all his years of making sure that things run smoothly between the hospital staff and the Jewish Community. Also attending the meeting were representatives from the NYSP Ellenville Barracks, Ulster County Sheriff Department, Ellenville Rescue Squad and other officials. Catskills Hatzolah Coordinators Rabbi Yehuda Frankel, R’ Bernie Gibs, R’ Yidel Feig, and R’ Yom Tov Malek thanked the local authorities for their overwhelming cooperation during the summer, and wished them all a safe ‘rest-of-the-summer’, and a quiet and safe winter. PHOTO LINK: Click HERE for photos. (Yehuda Drudgestein – YWN Sullivan County News Desk)

(PHOTO LINK AT END OF ARTICLE) At approximately 7:00PM on Sunday afternoon, a search was launched for three children (aged 6,8,9) at Gur Camp on Whittaker Road in South Fallsburg, NY. Catskills Hatzolah responded to a call from the parents, and and dozens of members arrived to help. Special Assistant to the Superintendent of the New York State Police Rabbi Bernard Freilich arrived on the scene just as Hatzolah was establishing a command post, and placed calls to Fallsburg Police Chief Simmy Williams, Sullivan County Sheriff Mike Schiff, and State Police Captain Jimmy Boyland for their assistance with K9 and other resources. Misaskim dispatched two vehicles with light towers, and Bochrim from nearby camps arrived to offer their assistance as well. A trailer with ATV’s was dispatched from Freeds Bungalow Colony as well. All the resources quickly placed together were Boruch Hashem not needed, when word came that all three children were found in the forest at approximately 8:00PM by a Hatzolah member – in healthy condition. It took close to 20 minutes for the children to be brought back to the command post, where they were happily united with their parents. PHOTO LINK: Click HERE for photos. (Yehuda Drudgestein – YWN Sullivan County News Desk)

Monticello Police are looking for a teenager who attempted to burglarize a bungalow in Staubers Bungalow Colony on Carpenter Avenue this past Wednesday night. Sources tell YWN that the Frum resident awoke at approximately 2:00AM and found the suspect inside his bungalow about to steal his wife’s purse. Without hesitating, the man confronted the thief – who pulled a knife on the man. A scuffle broke out, but the man was Boruch Hashem able to wrestle the knife and purse away from the thief – who quickly fled on foot. Special Assistant to the Superintendent of the New York State Police Rabbi Bernard Freilich tells YWN that Monticello Police Chief Doug Solomon is personally involved in the investigation, and ensured us that detectives are hard at work on the case. To make matters a bit easier for detectives, the knife – along with one of the mans shoes are in the hands of police. This is not the first burglary this summer at Staubers Bungalows, including incidents of stolen money, digital cameras, credit cards and cell phones. Anyone with any information is asked to please call the Monticello Police at 845-794-4422. (Yehuda Drudgestein – YWN)

PHOTO LINK AT END OF ARTICLE: On Monday morning, Special Assistant to the Superintendent of the New York State Police Rabbi Bernard Freilich arranged to receive an update from the various policing authorities in Sullivan & Ulster Counties. Agencies represented were NYSP, Sullivan County Sheriffs Department, Chiefs of Liberty, Monticello and South Fallsburg police departments. Also in attendance were Rabbi Yidel Feig Catskill Hatzolah Coordinator, Rabbi Simcha Bernath Chaplain at the Sullivan County Sheriff Department, and Rabbi Joel Gold Chaplain at the Ulster County Sheriff Department. The meeting was held at the NYSP Liberty Barracks. A discussion ensued regarding some of the recent incidents that generated and required a 911 response. High on the list was an unfortunate incident which occurred this past Shabbos afternoon involving a teenager from Brooklyn that allegedly got drunk and got behind the wheel of someone’s car. Shortly thereafter he crashed, rolled over multiple times, and hit someone’s bungalow where a child was sleeping on the other side of the wall. Bichasdei Hashem nobody was hurt in the incident. The driver then fled the scene prompting the Fallsburg Police to give foot pursuit, and place the driver under arrest. Another problem discussed was that the police departments have been receiving a number of complaints regarding procurement of alcoholic beverages. It is alleged that some of our youth are asking adults to purchase alcohol for them. Last summer YWN reported an incident where a frum person was arrested for this offense and it would be a shame for this to happen again. Liberty Police Chief Robert J Mir told YWN that just last week he witnessed this offense take place at the Town of Liberty Shop-Rite. “Be responsible”, the Chief said. “Think before you buy a teen a drink, it’s against the law”. Rabbi Ezra Max founder Kosher Coaching who was called to the meeting explained to the various officials that the Frum community B”H has a phenomenal and positive track record with teens obeying the laws and behaving appropriately. “An incident like this is very unfortunate and must be addressed, but it is certainly an anomaly and not the norm”. “Most of the teens and young adults upstate are having a great summer and not doing anything wrong”, Rabbi Max told the gathered officials. “Thousands of dollars are being spent every motzei shabbos for Girls and Boys to have separate venues to have fun. Kiamesha lanes is rented out by Ohr Naava from 11:30pm – 3:00am for girls ONLY. This is for the average good kid to have a good time in an environment that will not challenge them.” The officials all agreed that considering the amount of people (250,000!) that are coming upstate for the summer months there is certainly not a significant increase in crimes being committed by this population. A “hats-off” to Sullivan County Sheriff, Michael Schiff who proposed a late night decal idea similar to the CAT program. One of the heimishe community organizations would coordinate a registration process for families to get a sticker/decal for their vehicle. If a police officer in Sullivan county witness any vehicle with said decal being driven past 1am, they would make a traffic stop and verify that they vehicle was being used with permission. This will be an anti theft device as well as an insurance policy