Advocate News by TheAdvocate

THE ADVOCATE Vol. 26 No. 44 • Rockland’s Independent Jewish Community Newspaper Since 1985 •

Teves - 5772 December 29, 2011

CUOMO TO LOWER TAXES FOR NEW YORKERS LOWEST TAX RATE IN 58 YEARS WILL GO INTO EFFECT IN DAYS

Monsey Family Medical Center is proud to welcome

Governor Andrew M. Cuomo today launched a clock on his website counting down to January 1, when the lowest tax rates for middle-class New Yorkers in fifty eight years go into effect. To find information about the new tax rates and to view the countdown clock visit www.governor.ny.gov "New Yorkers will be ringing in 2012 with the lowest taxes we have had in 58 years," Governor Cuomo said. "When the lower tax rates for businesses and residents go into effect on January 1, more than four million middle-class New Yorkers will get a tax-break. We hope all New Yorkers will join us in counting down to lower taxes for our State." Earlier this month, Governor Cuo-

Midwife Nancy Solomon

to its OB/GYN staff. Mrs. Solomon will be speaking at the upcoming OB/GYN workshop January 10th. FOR MORE INFO SEE BACK PAGE DISPLAY AD

REP. ENGEL DEMANDS THE RELEASE OF ALAN GROSS FROM CUBAN PRISON

M. Rubin

‫פרשת ויגש‬

The #1 Judaica source in Rockland 27 Orchard St. 845-352-7792

5:50

4:18

An American government contractor jailed in Cuba is in good spirits and fine health, but anxious to get home to his family and disappointed he was not included in a massive prisoner amnesty announced by President Raul Castro last week, a Jewish leader who saw him said Wednesday. Congressman Eliot Engel demanded earlier this month that the Cuban government release Alan Gross from his wrongful imprisonment on what is the second anniversary of his incarceration. Rep. Engel is the Ranking Member of the House Foreign Affairs Committee’s Subcommittee on the Western Hemisphere.

“The Cuban government needs to release Alan Gross. This is beyond politics, beyond diplomacy. This is a matter of human rights. In addition to my role in Congress, I call on the leadership in Cuba as a father and husband to do the right thing at long last. Alan Gross’s health continues to deteriorate. His daughter’s battle with cancer is ongoing and he is missing these crucial moments with his loved one. I have a daughter around the same age, and it is heartbreaking to think of the loss this family is feeling. Alan Gross has nothing to do with the decades of frosty relations between our nations – his cont. Page 4

mo and the State's legislative leaders announced tax code reforms to create jobs and restore fairness to the tax system. Under the new rate structure, a total of 4.4 million New Yorkers would receive a tax cut, including a $690 million reduction for middle class taxpayers, and all taxpayers would see a tax reduction or no change compared to their previous tax bill. As part of this tax reform, Governor Cuomo has also created the New York State Tax Reform and Fairness Commission to address long term changes to the tax system and create economic growth. The Commission will conduct a comprehensive and objective review of the State's taxation policy, including corporate, sales and personal income cont. Page 4

MONSEY FAMILY MEDICAL CENTER BEGINS CONSTRUCTION OF NEW WING

A. Moeller

Construction is moving along on the expansion of several new exam rooms at the Monsey Family Medical Center. In addition to the exterior of the medical center which is getting a remodeling, the interior will see some new space as well. “As the community can see from the plans we have displayed on site at the Monsey Medical Center our facility will not only allow for additional exam rooms, but our patient service department will be able to expand to better serve the community," said Mendel Hoffman, president and CEO of Community Medical and Dental Care, Inc. As the community medical center, our commitment is to always strive to better serve our

patients,” Mr. Hoffman concluded. The funds that The Monsey Family Medical Center received through a $789,385 grant from Federal funding is currently being used to add cont. Page 4

THE ADVOCATE December 29, AS WE GO TO PRESS

Sears, K-Marts Close NEW YORK — After a disastrous holiday shopping season, the parent company of Sears and Kmart will close at least 100 stores to raise cash – a move that sparked speculation about whether the 125-year-old retailer can avoid a death spiral fed by declining sales and deteriorating stores. Sears Holdings Corp., a pillar of American retailing that famously began with a mail-order catalog in the 1880s, declared Tuesday that it would no longer prop up "marginally performing" locations. The company pledged to refocus its efforts on stores that make money. Sears' stock quickly plunged, dropping 27 percent. The closings are the latest and most visible move by Eddie Lampert, the hands-on chairman who has struggled to reverse the company's fortunes. As rivals Wal-Mart and Target Corp. spruced up stores in recent years, Sears Holdings confronted falling sales and perceptions of dowdy merchandise.

2011

‫ויגש תשע״ב‬

‫דער אדוואקאט‬

Publisher's Desk A Weekly Editorial By:

Mendel Hoffman

If the Cuban dictator can pardon his inmates held in Cuban jails, why can’t the president of the United States let out one or two prisoners here in America? We all know Rubashkin and Pollard are both serving harsh sentences. Would they be better off in a Cubin justice system? Maybe. President Raul Castro's unprecedented humanitarian pardons announced last week so far have benefited 2,991 inmates, and more on the way out. Castro has voiced concern about Joseph Gross’ condition, but he was not included on a list of prisoners the Cuban leader pardoned. America has a record number of its own people sitting in prison. It is time to reevaluate the justice system in this country. We can all learn from this unprecedented Cuban prisoner release. If an evil dictator can pardon so many prisoners shouldn’t the president of this country work on pardoning inmates in our federal prisons?

WRITE TO US The Advocate welcomes Letters to the Editor & the Action Desk about relevant topics and issues. Letters must include the writer’s name, address and phone number, although the name may be withheld from publication at the writer’s request. The Advocate reserves the right to edit for clarity and good taste. To voice your opinion, call: 845-770-1950, Fax: 845-770-1983, or e-mail Editor@AdvocateNews.org

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Less traf fic More surveillance A town curfew Less white collar crime

The Iowa caucuses

Republicans and Democrats in IowaÕs 1,700-plus precincts will hold caucuses in schools, churches, private homes. How the process works:

The Advocate is EXPANDING

For both caucuses Open to anyone who will be 18 by Election Day and is a registered Republican or Democrat; can register on night of caucus

GOP

Republicans

1. Chairperson, secretary elected to handle the nightÕs proceedings 2. Attendees pick a candidate either by paper ballot or show of hands; votes tallied and called into party headquarters 3. Delegates are nominated, elected by all participants; they attend county convention but are not pledged to support any candidate Source: The Des Moines Register

Dems Democrats 1. Because President Barack Obama is running for re-election, the forming of initial preference groups around candidates will be omitted unless there is a request to form them for other candidates 2. If no groups are formed, participants elect delegates for county conventions; if groups are formed, the number of delegates for each group are determined; each group elects delegates from within the group; delegate selection ratified by everyone; numbers totaled at state level to determine winner © 2011 MCT

the

Action Desk To voice your opinion!

editor@ AdvocateNews.org or call 845-770-1950

please write, to the Action Desk at:

THE ADVOCATE December 29, 2011

‫ויגש תשע״ב‬

‫דער אדוואקאט‬

THE ADVOCATE ACTION DESK albany

Washington

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Dear Actio

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Dear Edito

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Dear Actio

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S. Roth County Rockland

THE ADVOCATE December 29,

2011

Gillibrand Has Led Fight for Funding, Strengthening U.S.-Israel Bilateral Relations Washington, DC – U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand announced that Congress passed the Omnibus Appropriations Bill over the weekend, which includes $2 million in funding for the U.S.-Israel Energy Cooperative Agreement for FY2012. In November, the Senators Gillibrand, Ron Wyden (D-OR) and Mark Kirk (R-IL) urged the Senate Appropriations Committee Subcommittee on Energy and Water Development to allocate this critical funding. Senator Gillibrand has led the fight over the years ensuring that this critical grant program between the United States and Israel continues. Senators Gillibrand, Wyden, and Kirk wrote in their November letter, “We believe that this is an investment worth maintaining – for the sake of U.S. jobs, our important bilateral relationship with our ally Israel, and the energy innovation this relationship produces… Congress should continue to support the funding of this successful model, which is not only important for our bilateral relationship, but beneficial to our economy and our security. I thank you for your consideration and support of this program.” To date, funding for the U.S.-Israel Energy Cooperative Agreement have yielded ad-

vances in important areas such as energy grid management, biodiesel, and solar energy – creating numerous opportunities for American companies in New York and across the United States. Funding for the U.S.Israel Energy Cooperative Agreement has been allocated in the last three appropriation acts – FY2009, FY2010, and FY2011. Last year, Polytechnic Institute of New York and Holon Institute of Technology in Israel received $200,000 in funding for energyefficient, large DC-gain switched-capacitorbased converters for alternative sources. Senator Gillibrand has led the fight to preserve the continuation of this important private-public collaboration for energy research and development initiatives. In a letter to Senate Appropriations Committee Chairman Byron Dorgan and Ranking Member Senator Robert Bennett last year, Senator Gillibrand wrote, “I strongly support the aim of renewable energy collaboration between the U.S. and Israel. Our work with Israel, a world leader in green energy research and development, has great promise for the future of marketable alternative energy technologies… U.S.-Israel collaboration and the work of founda-

tions such as BIRD and BSF have had a lasting and fundamental impact on our countries' economies and relationship.” The funds for this program will be administered by the United States-Israel Binational Industrial Research and Development Foundation (BIRD) and the United StatesIsrael Binational Science Foundation (BSF), for renewable-energy research and development cooperative projects between the two nations. Since first appropriated, the U.S. contribution to this partnership has been matched $3 to $1 by the Israeli government and the private sector, making this a sound investment for the U.S. government. Businesses throughout the United States, including New York State, have benefited from the funding of scientific collaboration between the U.S. and Israel because it has served as a catalyst of innovation and economic growth. In fact, New York as the second largest state recipient of BIRD grants, has attracted over 650 allocations. Senator Gillibrand believes that preserving this cooperative agreement is not only important for U.S.-Israel bilateral relationship, but beneficial for the United State’s economy and security.

‫דער אדוואקאט‬

‫ויגש תשע״ב‬

MONSEY MEDICAL CENTER EXPANSION cont. from page1 6,000 square feet of space to the existing center. The expansion project is in the process of adding eight exam rooms to the pediatric and adult medicine departments. The construction project is slated to be completed by the end of January. The center has also recently furnished a lab waiting room. The additional waiting rooms will double in size to accommodate patients more comfortably. In the works are also- additional patient services of-

fices as well as more playing areas for children waiting to be seen. “We are proud of the confidence our patients have in the services and programs that we provide,” said Dr. Joel Allen, Medical Director. “We are equally proud of the recognition we have received from our elected officials and community based organizations. We strive to always bring our patients the health care that they deserve, and they should be treated with respect and dignity, this expansion will help better serve that need.”

Artist rendering of new design for Monsey

Family Medical Center

MONSEY FAMILY MEDICAL CENTER

WOMANS CARE CENTER

CUOMO TO LOWER TAXES FOR NEW YORKERS cont. from page1 taxation. In its review, the Commission will consider ways to eliminate tax loopholes, promote administra-

tion efficiency and enhance tax collection and enforcement.

THE NEW TAX BRACKET STRUCTURE WOULD BE REORGANIZED AS FOLLOWS:

Income Level $40,000 to $150,000 $150,000 to $300,000 $300,000 to $2 mil ion Over $2 mil ion

Previous Tax Rate 6.85% 6.85% 7.85% - 8.97% 8.97%

New Tax Rate 6.45% 6.65% 6.85% 8.82%

Evaluating charities

Nonprofit watchdog CharityWatch evaluates about 550 charities, organizes them into categories and assigns letter grades to each charity based on money spent on charitable purpose and other factors.

Categories with a high percentage of charities with low grades

ALAN GROSS CONT. FROM PAGE 1 only crime was passion for the Cuban Jewish community, and being an American. “This has gone on long enough. It is time to return Alan Gross to his loving wife, Judy. Bring him back to tend to his daughter and his 89-year-old mother.” Adela Dworin and another Jewish leader spent nearly two hours Monday with Alan Gross at the military hospital

where he is being held. The three celebrated the Jewish holiday of Hanukkah by lighting candles, eating potato pancakes and passing around chocolate coins. He was working on a USAID-funded democracybuilding program when he was arrested. His supporters say he was only trying to help the island’s small Jewish community improve its Internet connection. Cuba says

the USAID programs are aimed at bringing about regime change on the island. Gross was sentenced to 15 years in jail earlier this year. Castro has voiced concern about Gross’ condition, but the American was not included on a list of 2,900 prisoners the Cuban leader pardoned last week, most of them in jail for common crimes.

Veterans, military 42 charities evaluated

Grade

A B C D

21% 12 14

50%

Terminally and chronically ill children 11 charities evaluated

A 9% B 27 C 9 D 0

55%

Crime and fire prevention

19 charities evaluated

A B C D

5% 11 5 11

68%

Categories with a high percentage of charities with good grades Environment

49 charities evaluated

B 27 16 C D 0 F 4

53%

Homelessness and housing

5 charities evaluated

B C 0 D 0 F 0

Because of rounding, figures may not add up to 100% Source: CharityWatch

Human services

Graphic: Chicago Tribune

60%

11 charities evaluated

A B C D F

0 0

THE ADVOCATE December 29, 2011

‫ויגש תשע״ב‬

‫דער אדוואקאט‬

THE

MEET GOVERNOR ANDREW M. CUOMO AT THE EXECUTIVE MANSION

HINUCH FORU

!"#$%&#'()*$+,"$'-./&)'$),'0#$/,01-#'($ &(-$'-./&)"#*$+,"$%&#'()$),'0#$*).-'()*$

st Tuesday, November rd 1

Tuesday, January 3 8:30pm – 9:45pm 8:30pm – 9:45pm

Hear Ye, Making it Hear Stick:Ye:

Helping KidstotoMeaningfully Helping Kids Communicate Their Needs Grasp Information Interactive instructional session Interactive instructional session presented by Eliezer Vilinsky, presented by Eliezer Vilinsky, followed by open questions and discussion followed by open questions and discussion Location: Cong. Bais Torah Library 89 Carlton Road W. Suffern, NY

For all parents and/or educators men and women, separate seating $5.00 participation fee

the Chinuch Forum is a division of Educational Support Services, Inc. Eliezer Vilinsky, M.A. Miryam Vilinsky, M.Ed.

Call 426-3673 or visit www.TReaching.com for more information.

Legally Speaking

On January 1, New Yorkers are welcome to meet Governor Andrew M. Cuomo at the Executive Mansion. All adults over the age of 16 wishing to attend must have a ticket. Individuals that receive a ticket will be allowed to bring one guest and any minor children from their household. Children must be accompanied by an adult. Tickets are required and space is limited. New Yorkers wishing to attend should visit the Governor's homepage to register: www.governor.ny.gov The registration period takes place from Wednesday, December 28, 2011 at 1:00 pm to Thursday, December 29 at 9:00 pm. Space is limited and tickets are non-transferable. In the event that the number of requests exceeds available space, attendees will be selected by lottery. The Executive Mansion Open House will be held from 1:00 pm to 3:00 pm on January 1, 2012. Guests are reminded that weap-

So many courts, such little time! Ryan Scott Karben, Esq. The attorney-client relationship can be fruitful and productive or tense and strained. Fortunately, some mandatory procedures and common sense can bring peace of mind to both client and attorney. Most individuals who seek our legal assistance are confronted with a problem-whether it's an unanticipated lawsuit, a family tragedy, an arrest or a business idea. Few people show up at a law office anxious to part with a fortune. Price, however, is just one criteria to look for in selecting an attorney. Shopping for quality legal advice is not buying soap and the attorney's rates should be one of a number factors you evaluate in selecting your counsel. Pursuant to state rules government the legal profession, a written retainer agreement is required for any representation in which the fees paid will exceed $3000. A written retainer agreement should clearly state how the lawyer's fee is calculated (whether it is a flat fee or an hourly fee), what the minimum deposit it, when bills are generated, what work you will be billed for and what expenses you will need to cover. The retainer should also clearly state how many days you have to pay your bill and any interest charges for late payments. Most retainer agreements provide that in the event you do not pay your bill, the law firm can cease work on your account. In the event you and your attorney have a dispute over the bill, the Rockland County Bar Association has a committee to assist with fee disputes. Quality legal advice can be costly. At the beginning of your engagement of an attorney, clearly outline any financial concerns and ask the attorney for guidance on what you can expect your entire case to cost. An honest discussion at the beginning of

Monsey Family Medical Center Department of Speech Therapy

a representation will save aggravation for both attorney and client later on. It is important for clients to understand many legal matters are far more complex than the client may initially realize. Open communication is the best way to prevent problems.

ALL DISORDERS TREATED INCLUDING:

Lawyers are also supposed to provide client's with a list of "Client Rights and Responsibilities." This document, drafted by the court system, explains your attorney's obligation, your obligations as a client and other parameters of the attorney-client relationship. In the event you believe an attorney has violated his responsibilities to you, you can file a complaint with the Grievance Committee. While the overwhelming majority of complaints are dismissed and the committee does generally involve itself in fee disputes, you should press forward with a Complaint if you believe your attorney has acted in a fashion contrary to his or her obligation to zealously represent your interests. Contrary to the belief of some, attorneys are not obligated to provide anyone with a free consultation. Though some lawyers will offer a free consultation, never show up at a lawyer's office expecting to get advice free of charge. Always inquire in advance if there will be a fee for your meeting.

WE SERVICE CLIENTS WITH: • Receptive and Expressive Language Disorders • Fluency and Voice Disorders • Pragmatic Issues • Oral Motor, Articulation and Phonological Disorders

You can contact Ryan Karben at Ryan@ryankarben.com or 914-536-4402

ons and controlled substances as well as bags, backpacks, luggage, parcels, briefcases, and like articles will be strictly prohibited from the event. Photography and videography devices will not be allowed on the premises. Guests with prohibited articles will be turned away and no storage or "checkin area" will be provided for such items. Press wishing to attend must register by sending their name and outlet to Press.Office@exec. ny.gov.

• • • • • • • • • • • • • •

Chronic Hoarseness Vocal Fatigue Nasality Resonance disorders Articulation Oromotor Stuttering Cognitive Reading Hearing Loss Apraxia Head Trauma Parkinsons Dysarthria

Mr. Aaron Muller MS ccc- SLP • Mr. Melech K arp MS ccc- SLP

Speech Therapists for info & appointments:

845-352-6800x 6824 Monsey Family Medical Center 40 Robert Pitt Dr. Monsey, NY 10952

THE ADVOCATE December 29,

2011

OCCUPY BEIT SHEMESH TIME FOR THE 99% TO BE HEARD By: Rabbi Yakov Horowitz The ongoing violence in Beit Shemesh by hooligans has taken an even uglier turn recently as it is being directed against school-age children and their parents. It is now receiving front-page international coverage due to the involvement of Israeli elected officials at the highest levels. As the colossal Chilul Hashem and distortion of genuine Torah values is escalating, it is incumbent on decent Jews worldwide to do our part to distance ourselves from this behavior and loudly proclaim that this is not the way of our Torah. It is of paramount importance that we do so not only before the media and the world at large, but also that we explain this to our impressionable children in the starkest of terms. Our work with children and teens over the years has clearly indicated that "Hate Does not Have an Off Button" – meaning that the toxic message of intolerance is one that has long-term harmful effects. Many people in our community insist, “Everyone understands that these are a small bunch of radicals who do not have the support of any rabbinic leaders.” But that is simply not the message resonating around the world nowadays. The 1% is getting all the media attention due to the passiveness of the 99%. Several years ago, readers of this website conducted our own peaceful “hafgana” (protest) when the demonstrations in Eretz Yisroel were spinning out of control, by writing respectful emails to the editors of The Jerusalem Post and Ha’aretz condemning the violence in the clearest terms. By all accounts, it was very successful as each of the papers received more than 100 emails from Jews worldwide. The Jerusalem Post designated a letters-to-theeditor section, where they printed many of the responses and actually wrote a column noting that there was a grass-roots movement by charedi Jews worldwide condemning the violent behavior. We respectfully ask that you do the same at this critical time – with the eyes of the world focused on Beit Shemesh. Kindly take a few moments to cut and paste this message or write something along these lines and email them to letters@nytimes. com, letters@jpost.com, feedback@ haaretz.co.il “As a Torah Jew, I am deeply distressed by the harassment and violence in Beit Shemesh – all of which is diametrically opposed to the teachings of our Holy Torah. Lest our silence be misconstrued as passive acceptance of this behavior, we condemn it in the strongest terms, as do the vast, overwhelming, majority of Torah Jews worldwide.” We ask that you show public support for this effort by posting your name and the city where you live as a comment on the bottom of this thread so that members of our community and the media at large can see that this is a broad-based effort. Thank you very much for your time and may this effort be helpful in restoring k’vod shamayim.

‫ויגש תשע״ב‬

‫דער אדוואקאט‬

NATIONAL & INTERNATIONAL NEWS UPDATES PEOPLE STUCK ON SUBWAY BRING MTA TO COURT Subway riders stuck all night in a train trapped by snow after a blizzard sued a transportation agency on Tuesday. In court papers describing last year’s ordeal, they said they had no heat, food, water or bathroom facilities while the Metropolitan Transportation Authority kept promising help. The city was all but paralyzed when the storm hit on Dec. 26, 2010, with 2 feet of snow piled around an A train on elevated tracks in Queens. Inside were about 500 passengers who spent eight hours there in freezing temperatures. The conductor refused to allow passengers off the train, “resulting in a deplorable imprisonment,” said 22 of them named in the suit, which was filed in Queens state Supreme Court. They are seeking unspecified damages from the New York City Transit Authority, part of the MTA, which runs the nation’s largest mass transit system. The subway alone has a daily ridership of more than 5 million.

Hefty baggage fees

U.S. airlines raked in $1.7 billion from baggage fees in the first half of 2011. What various airlines charge for checked bags:

The partisan battle over extending the Social Security payroll tax cut may have hurt Republicans and given President Barack Obama a boost; what the polls say:

Voter frustration with Congress

• Percent who don’t want to see reelected ... 80%

67%

Most members of Congress

60 40 Their representative

Second

Additional

$20

$25

$50

$25

$35

$150

$25

$35

$100-200 per bag

$25

$35

3rd $125 Bags 4-10 $200

$35

$75

$33

$40

$90

Bags 3-9 $50 10th or more $110

$25

$35

$100

$25

$35

Bags 3 $125 4 or more $200

NOTE: Airlines have varying policies and prices for overweight and oversized bags Source: Individual airline policies, U.S. Bureau of Transportation Statistics Graphic: Melina Yingling, Judy Treible

‫מענער און פרויען דענטיסטס‬ Dr. Albetter says;

Public irked by taxcut battle

First

“SMILE!”

“Dr. Kashani, Pediatric Dentist is seeing patients on Sundays”

Bring your child for a check-up, cleaning, and sealant, and you will be assured your child’s teeth are clean white and cavity free.

33%

20 0 Feb. Õ06

Feb. Õ08

Feb. Õ10

Dec. Õ11

• Compared to others, this Congress has accomplished: More Less Same

50% 37%

Don’t know: 5%

• Which party is more extreme?

GOP Dem. Neither Other

53%

33%

Schedule an Appointment with

13%

Obama job approval inches up

From mid-month since June

49%

43%

39%

June July

Aug. Sept. Oct.

Dr. Ramin Kashani / Pediatric Dentist Call 352-6800 today.

Nov.

Dec.

Source: Gallup daily poll of 1,500 adults on Obama’s job approval (three-day rolling average); margin of error: +/-3 percentage points; Pew Research Center poll of 1,521 adults, Dec. 7-11, 2011; margin of error: +/-3.5 percentage points Graphic: Judy Treible © 2011 MCT

Monsey Family Medical Center 40 Robert Pitt Dr., Monsey, NY 10952 845.352.6800

Ben Gilman Spring Valley

Family Medical Center 175 Rt. 59 Spring Valley, NY 10977 845.426.5800

THE ADVOCATE December 29, 2011

‫ויגש תשע״ב‬

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INFECTIOUS FUNGUS COMMON IN HOUSEHOLD DRAINS What gunk lurks in the bathroom sink drain? A fungus that can cause infections in humans, for one thing. The fungus in question (genus Fusarium) can cause sinus infections and funky toenails. On rare occasions it kills people with weak immune systems. More recently, it has caused serious eye infections in people who wear contact lenses. The types of Fusarium that caused the outbreaks of eye infections

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Wildlife Impairs behavior, reproduction

in 2005 and 2006 are sometimes found in household plumbing, so researchers at Penn State University set out to see just how common they are. They swabbed 471 bathroom drains in the Eastern U.S. and California, and found that twothirds of sink drains harbored at least one Fusarium strain. The six strains that were most common in drains are also the ones most likely to cause infections in humans, including the ones that cause eye infections. The results were published recently in the current Journal of Clinical Microbiology. Now, let's be clear. The results don't prove that sink drains are the source of eye infections, or any other health problems. And the latest research doesn't explain how the fungus could get out of the drain and infect humans. Still, the findings offer a potential clue about why the mold in the 2005 and 2006 outbreaks was never found in the contact lens solution, Bausch & Lomb's ReNu with MoustureLoc.

TWO STRENGTHS OF INFANT ACETAMINOPHEN BOOST CONFUSION When makers of acetaminophen for infants said back in May that they were reducing the strength of the medicine so it would be less likely that babies would be accidentally given too much, it all made sense. Some infant acetaminophen had as much as 80 milligrams of acetaminophen in a milliliter, while products for older children had less than half that. Children were ending up in the emergency room with life-threatening overdoses, probably because parents were using the high-strength medication with the dosage directions for the lowerstrength versions. Some children died of liver failure.

THE ADVOCATE December 29,

2011

‫ויגש תשע״ב‬

‫דער אדוואקאט‬

Head-to-head matchups

Republican candidatesÕ potential matchups against President Barack Obama, from the latest McClatchy-Marist poll. • If the 2012 presidential election were held today, whom would you support if the candidates were: Barack Obama

47%

Newt Gingrich

Undecided: 8%

Barack Obama

Mitt Romney

Undecided: 8%

Barack Obama

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Ron Paul

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Barack Obama

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Undecided: 9%

Barack Obama Herman Cain Undecided: 11%

49 39

Barack Obama Michele Bachmann Undecided: 11%

54 35

“Trouble at School?” •Bullying •Peer Pressure •Quality time with your children •Homework •New friendships

Real Issues. Real Solutions

Project Ohr Dept. of Behavioral Health 845-352-6800 ext. 6849

THE ADVOCATE December 29, 2011

‫רופא חולים‬ Sponsored By Monsey & Dental Center WEEKLY PULLMedical OUT SECTION 40 Robert Pitt Drive, Monsey, NY 845-352-6800 PAGE 9 THROUGH 12

DEPARTMENT OF DEPARTMENT OF PEDIATRIC MEDICINE PEDIATRIC MEDICINE: Dr. Esther Bekritsky Esther Bekritsky Dr.Dr. Paul Bloom Dr. Paul Bloom Dr. Gerson Gluck Dr. Gerson Gluck ADULT MEDICINE Dr. James Israel MEDICINE: Dr.ADULT Arthur Landau Dr. James Israel Dr. Debra Grohman Dr. Arthur Landau Dr. Delatre Lolo Debra Grohman Dr. Dr. Jamie Giraldo Dr.Blitz, EricPA Goldman Brian ElanaBrian Klein,Blitz, PA PA Erick Araujo, PA FAMILY MEDICINE: Dr. Ryan Banach FAMILY MEDICINE Dr. Michael Safran OB/GYN: Dr. Joel W. Allen OB/GYN Debra Kirschner Dr.Dr. Joel W. Allen Karina Zhuravleva Dr.Dr. Debra Kirschner Melissa Carco, Melissa A. A. Carco, PAPA Nancy Solomon, Midwife DENTAL Dr. Genady Benyaminov DENTAL Leonard Kundel Dr. Dr. Genady Benyaminov Stacey Lubetsky Dr.Dr. Stacey Lubetsky Dr. Jacklyn Tadros Dr. Ramin Kashani Dr. Mark Raider Dr. Jacklyn Tadros Dr. Sarah Dr. Mark RaiderHanna Jana Barkin, Hygienist Dr. Sarah Hanna Dr. David Horowitz SPECIALTY: Dr. Harry Baldinger - Podiatry SPECIALTY Dr. Dr.Stuart HarryBirnbaum Baldinger--Podiatry Podiatry Dr. David Schwalb Urology Dr. Stuart Birnbaum - Podiatry Dr.Dr. Renata - Allergy DavidWitkowska Schwalb - Urology Dr.Dr. Samuel - OphthalmolDavidWong MenchellAllergy ogy Dr. Renata Witkowska - Allergy Dr. Alfred Hellreich DermatolDr. Samuel Wong - Ophthalmology ogy Dr. Carlos Delrosa-Ophthalmology Dr. Fried - Dermatology Dr.Philip Alfred Hellreich - Dermatology Dr.Dr. Yoel Kantor - Endocrinology Philip Fried - Dermatology Hanna Raice - Nutrition CounselDr. Yoel Kantor - Endocrinology Hanna Raice - Nutrition Counsel-

SCHEDULE YOUR APPOINTMENT TODAY: Monsey Family Medical Center 40 Robert Pitt Dr. Monsey, NY 10952

(845) 352-6800

‫ויגש תשע״ב‬

‫דער אדוואקאט‬

FAMILY HEALTH TALK DR. KANTOR . meet the doctor

Department of Endocrinology

ACNE

ask the doctor

Department Medicine Department of Adult Dermatology For most people, acne is something that occurs during the teenage years and goes away, never to return. For the lucky ones, it doesn't last long, and there is no permanent damage. Others struggle with it well into adulthood. Unfortunately, the social pain of acne can be equally as painful as, if not more than, the physical impact. Acne can be devastating to anyone's psyche, especially those in their teenage years. There are two types of acne For reasons no one completely understands, follicles, often called pores, sometimes get blocked. Sebum (oil) which normally drains to the surface gets blocked and bacteria begins to grow.

The prevalence of diabetes and endocrine disorders in our community has been a source of concern to the physicians at the medical center. Dr. Yoel Kantor of Monsey Family Medical’s Specialty Department , . is double Board Certified in Internal Medicine and Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism with much experience in diagnosing and treating diabetic patients and those with endocrine system disorders, especially thyroid problems. Dr. Kantor has years of training and experience at Beth Israel Hospital in Manhattan, a fellowship at Emory University and in private practice. Involvement in the medical profession runs in his family; his grandmother practiced as a pediatrician, his mother is a dentist and his sister is currently an internist. In the aftermath of the Chernobyl nuclear reactor disaster, which resulted in a spiking of thyroid cancer cases among the residents of the region, Dr. Kantor was involved in treating many thyroid cancer cases, which piqued his interest in endocrinology further. The desire to take advantage of superior educational opportunities and improve quality of life for his family spurred Dr. Kantor to emigrate to the States to finish his medical training in endocrinology and avail his family and himself of a more observant lifestyle. In treating patients with diabetes, Dr. Kantor favors a gradual approach, first recommending diet, exercise and lifestyle adjustments; if that approach is not successful, medication is advised. The progression of the disease in many patients can be arrested in its early stages by incorporating modest lifestyle changes into the daily routine. “The medical center is intent on continually expanding the spectrum of services we offer to the community,” states Mendel Hoffman, President/CEO. “Especially in light of the high incidence of diabetic conditions among our patients, we are proud to be able to offer endocrinology in the confines of the Center. This provides the convenience of advanced diagnosis and treatment to our patients within the Center, and enhanced responsiveness to our patient’s needs. We are happy and fortunate to have Dr. Kantor on staff at the Specialty Department.”

call 845-352-6800 to reach the DEPARTMENT OF Endocrinology

A papule occurs when there is a break in the follicular wall. White blood cells rush in and the pore becomes inflamed. A pustule forms several days later when white blood cells make their way to the surface of the skin. This is what people usually refer to as a "pimple". An inflamed lesion can sometimes completely collapse or explode, severely inflaming the surrounding skin, and sometimes engulfing neighboring follicles. These lesions are called nodules or cysts: Milia are tiny white bumps that occur when normally sloughed skin cells get trapped in small pockets on the surface of the skin. They are common in newborns across the nose and upper cheeks and can also be seen on adult skin. The bumps disappear as the surface is worn away and the dead skin is sloughed. In newborns, the bumps usually disappear within the first few weeks of life. However, for adults milia may persist indefinitely. “Millia is less common in children, but still treated”. Says Dr. Phillip Fried a dermatologist at Monsey Medical and Dental Care Center. Adults can have them removed by a physician for cosmetic improvement. Many people believe that the more they wash their face, the less chance of a pimple. But in reality, facial blemishes are not caused by dirt. Contrary to what you may have seen in advertisements, pores do not get blocked from the top down due to "impurities". Rather, the walls of a pore stick together deep within the skin, starting acne formation. Far from preventing acne, frequent washing may actually irritate pores and cause them to become clogged. A washcloth can add even more irritation. The best bet is to wash very gently with bare hands, and only wash twice a day. Stress and acne Stress may have an effect on hormones and theoretically can promote acne. However, an effective acne system is more powerful than a bout of stress any day. Some psychiatric medications may have acne as a side effect, but stress itself is no big deal. Your time is better spent determining the right course of acne treatment rather than feeling guilt about stress. Diet and acne “All we know for sure,” says Dr. Fried, “is that non-organic milk tends to lead to acne in women. This is because of all the hormones the cows are fed, organic milk does not pose the same threat”. The sun The sun may work in the short-term to hasten the clearing of existing acne while reddening your skin, thus blending your skin tone with red acne marks. However, a sun burn is actually skin damage. It's important to prevent damage to your skin while trying to get rid of acne. Sun exposure causes irritation which can make acne worse. Don’t stay out of the sun completely since we get our vitamin D from the sun. Limiting sun exposure on acne prone areas of your body is most likely prudent, but some exposure from time to time is not only unavoidable, but is perfectly okay.

call 845-352-6800 to reach the SPECIALTY Dept. Dr. Alfred Hellreich - Dermatology Dr. Philip Fried - Dermatology

PLEASE NOTE THIS DID NOT RUN LAST ISSUE SINCE I PUT A COLOR AD FOR ECHO IN ITS PLACE BEFORE PRESS TIME

-A MOELLER

THE ADVOCATE December 29,

2011

Pick up a FREE copy of the

ADVOCATE

each week at the following locations:

BUS SHELTERS

Park & Ride - Rt 59 Pathmark Route 306 & Maple Ave - Bus shelter - Monsey Maple Ave & Phyllis Terr. - Bus shelter - Monsey Route 306 & Grove St. - Bus Shelter - Monsey Outside RCDC - 22 Main St – Monsey

TAKEOUTS

Chai Pizza - Rt 59 - Monsey Purple Pear - Rt 59 - Monsey Monsey Barbeque - Rt 59 - Monsey Jerusalem Pizza - Rt 59 - Monsey Pita Land - Rt 59 & College Rd - Monsey Oh Nuts - Rt 59 - Monsey Kosher Castle - Rt 59 - Monsey Zishes Bakery - Main St - Monsey Monsey Takeout - Main St - Monsey Mechels Takeout - Rt 59 - Monsey Ruggalach - Rt 59 - Monsey Sushi Mitzuyan - Saddle Riv Rd. - Airmont Duncan Doughnuts - Rt 59 - Tallman

GROCERIES

AllFresh Grocery - Rt 59 - Monsey Monsey Glatt - Rt 59 - Monsey Shoppers Haven-Entrance & Exit - Monsey Wesley Kosher - Rt 306 - Wesley Hills ShopRite/Walmart - Rt 59 - Tallman Stop and Shop-New City Monsey Kosher Plaza

OTHER MONSEY....

Shimon's Barber Shop - Rt 59 Monsey WIC Office - Robert Pitt Dr - Monsey Z-Line Car Wash - Monsey Shoe Tova - Atrium Plaza - Monsey Mazel Cleaners - Rt 59 - Monsey Tuvias - Rt 59 - Monsey Monsey Family Health Center Front Entrance - 40 Robert Pitt Dr. - Monsey Shell Gas Station - Rt 59 - Monsey Getty Gas Station - Rt 59 & Remsen - Monsey Amazing Savings-

SPRING VALLEY:

Finkelstein Library - Spring Valley Holocaust Center - Spring Valley 7-11 Kennedy Drive - Spring Valley Eli's Bagels / Pizza - Maple Ave - Spring Valley Carvel - Eckerson Road & Rt 45 - Spring Valley Shellys Pizza - Maple Ave - Spring Valley

WESLEY HILLS:

Bubbas Bagels / Rite Aid - Wesley Hills Wesley Kosher - Rt 306 - Wesley Hills Shellys Too - Rt 306 - Wesley Hills Mobil Gas Station - Rt 306 - Wesley Hills Eye Candy - Rt 306 - Wesley Hills Continental Barber Shop - Rt 306 - Wesley Hills The Grapevine - Rt 306 - Wesley Hills

SUFFERN:

ShopRite/Walmart - Rt 59 - Tallman Suffern Library Town of Ramapo - Rt 59 - Suffern Good Samaritan Hospital (Chesed Room) Good Samaritan Hospital - Lobby

NEW CITY:

County Clerk/Court House Legislature Building , Chick Peace Challa Fairy Bakery, ShopRite & Stop and Shop

‫ויגש תשע״ב‬

‫דער אדוואקאט‬

THE ADVOCATE December 29, 2011

‫דער אדוואקאט‬

‫ויגש תשע״ב‬

306

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THE ADVOCATE December 29,

2011

‫רופא חולים‬

‫ויגש תשע״ב‬

‫דער אדוואקאט‬

FAMILY HEALTH TALK

Sponsored ByPULL Monsey Medical Dental Center WEEKLY OUT& SECTION 40 Robert Pitt Drive, Monsey, NY 845-352-6800 PAGE 9 THROUGH 12

P R O J E C T O H R , D E PA RT M E N T O F B E H AV I O R A L H E A LT H

HELPING KIDS LEARN SELF-CONTROL By: Tziporah Spira, LMSW

hen kids melt down in the middle of a crowded store, at a Shabbos meal with extended family, or at home, it can be extremely frustrating. But parents can help kids learn self-control and teach them how to respond to situations without just acting on impulse. Teaching self-control skills is one of the most important things that parents can do for their kids because these are some of the most important skills for success later in life. By learning self-control, kids can make appropriate decisions and respond to stressful situations in ways that can yield positive outcomes.For example, if you say that you're not serving ice cream until after dinner, your child may cry, plead, or even scream in the hopes that you will give in. But with self-control, your child can understand that a temper tantrum means you'll take away the ice cream for good and that it's wiser to wait patiently. Here are a few suggestions on how to help kids learn to control their behavior: UP TO AGE 2 Infants and toddlers get frustrated by the large gap between the things they want to do and what they're able to do. They often respond with temper tantrums. Try to prevent outbursts by distracting your little one with toys or other activities. For kids reaching the 2-year-old mark, try a brief timeout in a designated area — like a kitchen chair or bottom stair — to show the consequences for outbursts and teach that it's better to take some time alone instead of throwing a tantrum.

Dr. B. Albetter asks;

“IS YOUR CHILD ACTING OUT IN SCHOOL?”

AGES 3 TO 5 You can continue to use timeouts, but rather than enforcing a specific time limit, end timeouts once your child has calmed down. This helps kids improve their sense of self-control. And praise your child for not losing control in frustrating or difficult situations.

Schedule a confidential consultation with

Dr. Zvi Weisstuch, Psychiatrist Call the Department of Behavioral Health at 352-6800 today. Monsey Family Medical Center 40 Robert Pitt Dr., Monsey, NY 10952 845.352.6800

Ben Gilman Spring Valley

Family Medical Center 175 Rt. 59 Spring Valley, NY 10977 845.426.5800

Department of Behavioral Health Seymour Kushnir, MD

AGES 6 TO 9 As kids enter school, they're better able to understand the idea of consequences and that they can choose good or bad behavior. It may help your child to imagine a stop sign that must be obeyed and think about a situation before responding. Encourage your child to walk away from a frustrating situation for a few minutes to cool off instead of having an outburst. AGES 10 TO 12 Older kids usually better understand their feelings. Encourage them to think about what's causing them to lose control and then analyze it. Explain that sometimes the situations that are upsetting at first don't end up being so awful. Urge kids to take time to think before responding to a situation. AGES 13 TO 17 By now kids should be able to control most of their actions. But remind teens to think about long-term consequences. Urge them to pause to evaluate upsetting situations before responding and talk through problems rather than losing control, slamming doors, or yelling. If necessary, discipline your teen by taking away certain privileges to reinforce the message that self-control is an important skill. WHEN KIDS ARE OUT OF CONTROL As difficult as it may be, resist the urge to yell when you're disciplining your kids. Instead, be firm and matter of fact. During a child's meltdown, stay calm and explain that yelling, throwing a tantrum, and slamming doors are unacceptable behaviors that have consequences — and say what those consequences are. Your actions will show that tantrums won't get kids the upper hand. For example, if your child gets upset in the grocery store after you've explained why you won't buy candy, don't give in — thus demonstrating that the tantrum was both unacceptable and ineffective.

Find out what the issues are. Help your child get ahead this year and look forward to a happy and successful school year.

PROJECT OHR

Also, consider speaking to your child's teachers about classroom settings and appropriate behavioral expectations. Ask if problem solving is taught or demonstrated in school. And model good self-control yourself. If you're in an irritating situation and your kids are present, tell them why you're frustrated and then discuss the potential solutions to the problem. For example, if you've misplaced your keys, instead of getting upset, tell your kids the keys are missing and then search for them together. If they don't turn up, take the next constructive step (like retracing your steps when you last had the keys in-hand). Show that good emotional control and problem solving are the ways to deal with a difficult situation.

ADULT PSYCHIATRY Allan Flaggman, MD ADULT PSYCHIATRY Zvi Weisstuch, MD CHILD PSYCHIATRY

SOCIAL WORK Individual, Couple Child & Family Therapy Gelly Asovski LMSW Rabbi Aryeh Frankel LMSW Naomi Franklin LMSW Yael Kahan LMSW Sharon Kronenberg LMSW Avi Riber LMSW Esther Rothbaum LMSW Chana Simmonds LMSW Tziporah Spira LMSW Malka Susswein LMSW Mendel Twersky LMSW Gila Zelinger LMSW

For a confidential consultation call

PROJECT OHR Tel. 845.352.6800

PAGE 9 - 12 WEEKLY FAMILY HEALTH TALK PULL OUT SECTION

Ext. 6849

THE ADVOCATE December 29, 2011

HOUSE GOP FINALLY AGREE TO NOT RAISE TAXES ON MIDDLE CLASS FAMILIES Congressman Eliot Engel (D-NY-17) issued the following statement after House Republicans once again stepped back from the brink and agreed to the two-month extension to the payroll tax holiday, as agreed to by the Senate last week. Last year, Congress enacted legislation to reduce the Social Security payroll tax by 2% for employees, continue extended unemployment insurance benefits and delay a previously scheduled 25% reduction in the Medicare reimbursement rate for physician services (Doc Fix). Both parties agree that a one-year extension is preferable, but great differences remain on how to do so. The two-month Senate compromise gives time to work out the long-term deal, while not harming American families.

publicans, in both the House and Senate, can hash out a real agreement for a longer extension. The plan passed by the House Majority is unacceptable, however, and must be altered in order to be signed by the President. Their bill forces millions of seniors to pay more for health care while giving the 300,000 wealthiest Americans another free pass. This is completely unacceptable – we cannot solve our debt problem on the backs of our working families.” The GOP version of the expiring tax measures alters some key points. It modifies the unemployment insurance program to cut 40 possible weeks (reducing the maximum state and federal duration of benefits from 99 weeks to 59 weeks) while also imposing new requirements on laid-off workers seeking unemployment benefits. It adds taxes to the unemployed for longterm need, and disqualifies them from taking part in the Food Stamp program.

“It really doesn’t make any sense to punish people who are already suffering by being without a “It is refreshing to see that my Republican col- job. I hope that we can build upon the common leagues have seen the light and are joining ground found today, and find a more equitable Democrats in preventing a tax hike on middle way of paying for a longer extension. I also call class families. The fact that we continue hav- on my Republican colleagues to fully abandon ing these dysfunctional arguments every few the reckless tactics when we reconvene in weeks, needlessly taking our country to the 2012. There are too many important issues we brink of economic disasters, is a major reason need to tackle – job creation, immigration reCongress has an approval rating bordering on form, education, etc. – and we cannot do so by single digits. The American people are sick and having to face manufactured crises time after Drugmart WR0105 1 of the holidays tired of these games.010512 For once,DT cooler12/28/11 heads time. 11:26 I am gladAM to seePage the spirit have prevailed and now there won’t be any un- prevailed today, and I look forward to extending wanted holiday surprises for the American peo- that, as well as the middle class tax breaks, into ple. After the New Year, Democrats and Re- the new year.”

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Oakland

San Francisco Bay

Treasure Island 80 Yerba Buena Island Oakland

Detailed at right

San Francisco 280 Pacific Ocean 15 km

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101

Drakes Bay

San Francisco Ship hits tower 280 101

15 miles Source: ESRI, TeleAtlas, Los Angeles Times reporting Graphic: Los Angeles Times

San Francisco Bay

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THE ADVOCATE December 29,

2011

food preparation

‫ויגש תשע״ב‬ Dr. Albetter says;

“DON’

Food safety doesn’t end with buying, transporting, and storing food safely. In fact, once you have food home . . . the safety of your food is, literally, in your hands. Follow these basic guidelines — and remember, safe food preparation always begins with “clean.” Keeping It Clean

Cutting Boards

Handwashing

Proper cutting board “care-and-feeding” is a key component of preventing cross-contamination. Here’s how:

• Always wash hands with soap and warm water for 20 seconds before beginning food preparation, after handling food, and after using the bathroom, changing diapers, or touching pets.

‫דער אדוואקאט‬

T LET

THE F LU BUG Y OU!”

• Always use a clean cutting board for food preparation. • Try to use one cutting board for fresh produce — and a separate one for raw meat, poultry, and seafood.

• Use gloves to handle food if you have a cut or infection. Do not sneeze or cough into food.

• Sanitize cutting boards with a freshly made solution of 1 tablespoon of unscented, liquid chlorine bleach in 1 gallon of water.

Surfaces and Utensils Harmful bacteria can spread throughout the kitchen and get onto cutting boards, utensils, and countertops — causing “cross-contamination.” (See inset box on page 8.) Keep raw meat, poultry, fish, and their juices away from other food — especially ready-to-eat food.

• Once cutting boards become excessively worn or develop hardto-clean grooves, replace them.

fOR AN APPOINTMENT FOR A D U LT A N D P E D I AT R I C F L U S H O T S

Kitchen Cleanup • Use hot, soapy water and a clean dishcloth (or paper towels) to clean kitchen surfaces and wipe up spills.

• Wash cutting boards, dishes, and countertops with hot, soapy water after preparing each food item and before you go on to the next item.

Call 352-6800 today.

• Wash dishcloths often in the hot cycle of your washing machine.

• After cutting raw meat, poultry, and seafood, wash cutting boards, knives, and countertops with hot, soapy water.

Ben Gilman Spring Valley

Monsey Family Medical Center 40 Robert Pitt Dr., Monsey, NY 10952 845.352.6800

Family Medical Center 175 Rt. 59 Spring Valley, NY 10977 845.426.5800

continued next week...

‫מענער און פרויען דענטיסטס‬ THE DENTAL DEPT AT MONSEY FAMILY MEDICAL CENTER IS PROUD TO WELCOME :

Mortgages and taxes

Recent polls show that most Americans favor the mortgage interest deduction, but it costs the federal government a lot and could be headed for the chopping block.

Costliest deductions

Employer health care contributions, health insurance premiums

$660

484

Percent change in after-tax income if the mortgage interest deduction were changed, by race or ethnicity White African American Hispanic Asian/other Eliminate deduction

–0.96% –0.72 –0.73 –0.90

Dividends, long-term capital gains

403

Pension contributions, earnings

303

Limit deduction for high-income earners to 28 percent tax bracket

Earned income credit

269

State, local taxes

237

212

Capital gains at death

194

Who benefits

Percent of taxpayers who claimed the mortgage interest deduction, by income level, in thousands, 2009 20 to 30 30 to 40 40 to 50 50 to 75 75 to 100 100 to 200 200 plus

1.3%

+0.28 +0.26 –0.18%

Benefit reaped

Average annual tax savings from mortgage interest deduction, by income level, in thousands, 2009 $10 to $20 $0 20 to 30

5.5 13.1 22.9

40 to 50

114

75 to 100

47.1

100 to 200

72.9

Source: Joint Committee on Taxation, Urban Institute Graphic: Pat Carr

30 to 40 50 to 75

33.0 64.0

–0.04% –0.02 –0.02 –0.04 –0.03%

Replace deduction with credit up to $1,490

401(k) contributions, earnings

$10 to $20

D R . DA V I D H O R O W I T Z T O T H E D E N TA L D E PA R T M E N T

If deduction changed

Most expensive individual tax expenditures, 2010-2014, in billions

Mortgage interest

Evening hours available

200 plus

HAVE YOU HAD YOUR SIX MONTH CHECK-UP AND CLEANING? ...Schedule an Appointment Call 352-6800 x 6840 today.

Monsey Family Medical Center 40 Robert Pitt Dr., Monsey, NY 10952 845.352.6800

Ben Gilman Spring Valley

Family Medical Center 175 Rt. 59 Spring Valley, NY 10977 845.426.5800

THE ADVOCATE December 29, 2011

‫ויגש תשע״ב‬

‫דער אדוואקאט‬

The largest animal on Earth

Marine-mammal researchers photographed several blue whales off Washington state Ð only the third documented sighting in our region in 50 years.

Blue whale 100 ft. (30.5 m)

Balaenoptera musculus Weight About 150 tons

Length

Southern Hemisphere blue whales reach lengths of 90-100 ft. (27-30.5 m) Northern Hemisphere blue whales average 75 to 80 ft. (23-24 m)

Seattle light-rail car Length 95 ft. (29 m)

Weight 52 tons

95 ft. (29 m)

Gray whale

Length 45-46 ft. (14 m) Weight 30-40 tons

Eschrichtius robustus

Source: acsonline.org Graphic: Mark Nowlin, The Seattle Times

Losing jobless benefits? 5,000-24,999

25,000-59,999

60,000 or more

NOTE: Alaska and Hawaii not to scale

• 430,000 of these jobless were laid off as recently as July; they exhaust state benefits in January

CAN YOU SELL? ADVOCATE SEEKS SALESTEAM FOR GROWING NEWSPAPER!

CALL Aaron 845.770.1950 or e-mail:

Nearly 2 million unemployed workers will lose their benefits Jan. 1 unless Congress reauthorizes the emergency program. Those jobless by state: Less than 5,000

Orca

Orcinus orca

Sales@AdvocateNews.org

NEWS AROUND THE REGION GROUP SAYS ‘ENVIRONMENTAL JUSTICE’ NOT CONSIDERED IN INDIAN POINT RELICENSING BUCHANAN – Environmental group files a report with the Nuclear Regulatory Commission’s Atomic Safety and Licensing Board raising a new issue in regard to Entergy’s application to relicense the Indian Point nuclear power plants for another 20 years. The group is pointing to research which it says shows the plant’s emergency evacuation plan would have “disproportionate effects on people of color, people with low incomes, disabilities and/or limited mobility.” Clearwater Environmental Director Manna Jo Greene pointed to evacuation difficulties in the event of an emergency by people who cannot afford to have private transportation and must rely on public transit. The group also has concerns about the elderly. People in nursing homes or assisted living would have great difficulty in evacuating, Greene said. “Especially people if their vision is challenged, their hearing is challenged, their ability to understand commands and what’s going on; all of these handicaps could really create very disproportionate impacts,” she said. Clearwater also cited the “potential for disproportionate impact” by the failure to mention nearby Sing Sing state prison. The facility is “its own census block,” according to Clearwater’s statement of legal position. “Its population is overwhelmingly from minority groups, and the ability of prisoners to respond to emergencies is completely different to that of the general population.” Clearwater is one of three parties with standing before the NRC’s Atomic Safety and Licensing Board to challenge Indian Point’s relicensing – the others are Riverkeeper and New York State. They plan on arguing their case at a hearing in the new year.

SENATOR CARLUCCI CALLS ON KRUGER TO FORFEIT PENSION NANUET, NY – Senator David Carlucci called on disgraced ex-State Senator Carl Kruger to forfeit any pension package that he was entitled to receive upon his prompt exit from the state senate over felony violations. Back in May, Senator Carlucci proposed legislation that would strip pensions of public officials that commit wrongdoing. The New York State Senate subsequently passed and signed into law by Governor Cuomo the Public Integrity Reform Act of 2011 that, among other notable items, overhauled previous antiquated ethics laws with common sense regulation. As a result, certain public officials who commit crimes related to their public offices may have their pensions reduced of forfeited in a new civil forfeiture proceeding brought by the Attorney General or the prosecutor who handled the conviction of the official. “Politicians should not be allowed to receive any type of sweetheart public pension deal from the same taxpayers they swindled," said Senator Carlucci. “Those that commit wrongdoing should be held accountable. I continue to believe that public corruption, no matter whose side of the aisle it occurs on, is inherently wrong and cannot be tolerated.” Up until passage of the reform legislation in New York State, public pensions were constitutionally guaranteed even for those that committed a felony, unfairly leaving taxpayers on the hook. Senator Kruger was vested and paid into the pension program before the bill passed. As a result, he is eligible to collect his pension benefits because of this loophole. Authorities have alleged that Kruger accepted $1 million in bribes to finance his fraudulent and lavish lifestyle while in return doling out political favors to his cronies.and to completely eliminate this tax.”

NEW YORKERS SUPPORT CASINOS, SPLIT ON HYDRO-FRACKING, COLLEGE POLL FINDS NEW YORK – New York State voters support legalized casino gaming by a two to one margin, according to a poll released Wednesday by Quinnipiac University. Sixty-four percent of those polled by the Connecticut college support Atlantic City or Las Vegas style casinos while 31 percent oppose them. Casinos would be good for the economy, New York voters said 68 percent to 27 percent. They would also lead to an increase in gambling addiction, voters said by a 58 percent to 36 percent margin. Legalizing casino gaming would require the approval of two consecutive state legislatures followed by a vote by the residents of the state. The process is already underway and lawmakers say will introduce legislature next month. On the subject of hydrofracking to harvest natural gas from underground shale formations, 44 percent of those polled by Quinnipiac College support drilling because of the economic benefits and 45 percent oppose it because of environmental concerns. Opposition to drilling is 48 percent to 43 percent among upstate voters and 49 percent to 40 percent among New York City voters while suburban voters support drilling 53 percent to 34 percent. Voters support by 57 percent to 31 percent a tax on companies drilling for gas in the Marcellus Shale and say by 75 percent to 18 percent that drilling will create jobs. All groups agree strongly about jobs. But voters said 55 percent to 13 percent, with 31 percent undecided, that fracking will cause environmental damage.

THE ADVOCATE December 29,

2011

‫ויגש תשע״ב‬

MAJOR

Shaking the sands of time

PEANUT BUTTER

The historic earthquake that hit Japan last spring proved an apt metaphor for a year in which the world was rocked by political and economic upheaval.

RECALL

March 11 Massive earthquake hits Japan, triggering a tsunami, crippling a nuclear plant and killing more than 15,000 Feb. 11 Egyptian President Hosni Mubarak ousted after 18 days of demonstrations, spreading the ÒArab SpringÓ

March 15 Protests begin in Syria; President Bashar al-Assad soon begins crackdown that has killed at least 5,000

Jan. 8 U.S. Rep. Gabrielle Giffords, D-Ariz., suffers severe brain injury after shooting that leaves six dead

J.M. Smucker Co. recently announced that it is recalling 3,000 jars of its Smucker's Natural Peanut Butter Chunky from stores because the peanut butter is possibly contaminated with the bacteria salmonella. This certainly isn't the first salmonella outbreak to hit the U.S., and it likely won't be the last. Recently, the recall of Turkish pine nuts from Wegmans supermarkets was in the news because of contamination with salmonella. And just this month, legal settlements were made with victims of egg-salmonella contamination, the AP reported. Earlier this month, the FDA announced that it was stepping up its efforts to test pet food for salmonella contamination. Samonella infection, also known as salmonellosis, is the most common source of food poisoning, according to the National Institutes of Health. Infection is most commonly contracted by consuming the bacteria from raw beef, eggs, poultry and sometimes even produce. It can also be contracted by pets' feces (particularly from reptilian and bird pets).

May 1 Al-Qaeda leader Osama bin Laden, mastermind of 9-11, killed by Navy Seals in Pakistan

Aug. 5 Standard & PoorÕs downgrades U.S. debt for first time

‫דער אדוואקאט‬

There are more than 2,500 types of salmonella, and some of them have become increasingly drug-resistant over the years because of antimicrobial use in both animals and humans, according to the World Health Organization. WebMD reports that 40,000 reported cases of salmonella poisoning occur in the U.S. every year, though that number is likely up to 30 times larger because milder cases often go unreported.

Sept. 17 Ongoing series of Occupy Wall Street protests against economic inequality begins in New York City, spreads to Washington, D.C., and around world

July 21 NASAÕs 135th and final space shuttle mission ends July 22 Right-wing extremist kills 77 in horrific attacks in Norway Nov. 9 Greek Prime Minister George Papandreou resigns, a casualty of EuropeÕs debt crisis; governments in Italy, Spain also change hands

Oct. 20 Libyan dictator Moammar Gadhafi killed by rebels after eight-month uprising backed by NATO

Source: AP, Reuters, MCT Photo Service

Graphic: Pat Carr, Robert Dorrell

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Nov. 10 Legendary Penn State football coach Joe Paterno ousted in wake of child sex abuse scandal involving his former assistant

When contracted from food, contamination can occur during the food processing or handling phases, particularly when a food handler doesn't properly wash his or her hands after using the restroom. When a person is infected with salmonella, the bacteria goes to live in the intestinal tract, the Mayo Clinic reported. Common symptoms usually last four to seven days, and include nausea, abdominal pain, vomiting, diarrhea, fever, headache and even bloody stools. For most people, getting sick with salmonellosis just means a few days of being sick. But for certain populations -- including babies and young children, the elderly, people who have had organ transplants, people who have weak immune systems and pregnant women -- complications can occur that include dehydration resulting in dry mouth, decreased urination, and sunken eyes, and even bacteremia, which is when bacteria gets in the bloodstream and infects other parts of the body, according to the Mayo Clinic. Salmonella doesn't usually have to be treated, as it goes away on its own after a few days, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. However, if a person has been severely affected and is dehydrated because of the infection, intravenous fluids may be necessary for rehydration. Antibiotics may also be necessary if infection spreads elsewhere in the body.

THE ADVOCATE December 29, 2011

‫ויגש תשע״ב‬

‫דער אדוואקאט‬

E duca tional In si g h ts THE GIFT OF EDUCATION Eliezer Vilinsky, M.A. Miryam Vilinsky, M.Ed. EDUCATIONAL SUPPORT SERVICES © 2011 All rights reserved. Permission to print granted to The Advocate Is this a case of big powerful politicians picking on innocent young children? The Alabama Ethics Commission has ruled that children can give only inexpensive gifts, like coffee mugs or homebaked cookies, to their teachers. This is a holiday time concern, so it has come to the media’s attention at this time of year. Alabama teachers who accept higher-priced gifts, will be violating the law and are subject to a $6,000 fine. The teacher-gift provision is part of a greater law that was created following indictment of some legislators and lobbyists in Alabama. Naturally, some educators object to being grouped with potentially corrupt politicians, but authors of the law say that exceptions cannot be made for teachers. That would weaken the law. We could just chalk this business up to an example of “your taxes at work”, but we believe there are some valuable lessons to be learned. The centerpiece of this type of legislation is designed to root out favoritism. In government, that means keeping everybody on an even playing field and not granting special favors to friends or those who buy special treatment by giving gifts or paying bribes. Of course this standard should apply to everyone, including teachers. Teachers’ pets are in nobody’s best interest. Our peeve is with how issues like this are dealt with. As educators who have seen decades of remarkable changes in behavior in people of all ages, backgrounds, and beliefs, we believe in education over legislation. If you want to help someone change his behavior, don’t sue him, educate him. This applies to educational institutions, not just political ones. Despite the need to regard sensitivity issues, there is no reason to set a dollar limit on the amount a child or his family may spend on a gift for a teacher. Some people voice concern about uneven giving and children’s feelings. How do we stop one child from given an elaborate gift, which he can afford, to a teacher, while another child can afford only a modest gift? Answer: we don’t stop him. Stopping is legislation in place of education. Perhaps lessons about gift giving would help. Perhaps we should teach our children about quality versus quantity. Accuracy is more valuable than cost. Selecting a gift that fits the person we wish to thank or show friendship toward is far more effective than spending a lot of money on a gift. Yes, people are flattered when others spend a lot of money on them, but they are more appreciative when the giver shows how well he knows the recipient. That shows in the accuracy of the gift selection. This is a lesson in appreciation versus flattery. A second lesson we can share with our children is about realism. Rich people are entitled to act richly. Average income earners should not be imitating rich people. It’s fine for a financially wellendowed individual to present a gift purchased in an upscale store, but it is not appropriate for someone to break his bank to do the same. The recipient will reject the lower-earner, not because he failed to match the giving of the wealthier giver, but because he failed to give realistically. Unrealistic giving translates into insincerity. Sincere giving comes from the heart. It is not encased in dollar signs. We would like to share one personal example of heartfelt giving. While we were resid-

ing in Atlanta, Georgia, our oldest daughter celebrated her seventh birthday. At a modest party that we hosted for her, boys and girls who were close friends gave her gifts for her birthday. One gift was remarkably striking. One boy gave her a piece of coral. Spontaneously, the little boy’s father told us, as he picked his son up from the party, that he had asked his son what he would like to give as a gift that would be most meaningful from him. The little boy went to his room and took the coral from his shelf and wrapped it as a gift and presented it to our daughter. How do you like that? Straight from the heart. No credit card needed.

"The amount of the heart that is touched is the same." We’re not advocating emptying out your basement clutter and transferring it to your child’s teacher’s basement with appreciation for all that she does. We are suggesting that giving a gift to a teacher is right when it is given sincerely, and it represents the child appropriately. That piece of coral has remained in our hearts and stayed on our shelf for many years. Our goal is not only to highlight what proper gift giving is, but to encourage parents and teachers to educate children about the qualities of gift giving. This act of kindness requires formal and informal teaching. Rather than legislate how much a gift may cost, teach about how to valuate a gift based upon its realism and its sincerity. Now comes part two. So far we have focused on the lessons parents and teachers need to give to children about how to select and give gifts. We cannot ignore the important lesson that recipients of gifts teach through their receiving. We would like to assume that teachers are fair-handed and that they will not favor those who give “better” gifts. Of course unscrupulous individuals may be sitting behind teachers’ desks, but they also require education, not legislation. Teachers need to demonstrate to their students and to their peers that no matter how large or small or expensive or inexpensive a gift may be, the amount of the heart that is touched is the same. That expression of thanks rests with the teacher. as we explained earlier, focused gifts count most. Gifts that represent the giver most and mean something special to the recipient are the best. The teacher’s thank-you card will reflect that. Decreeing how much or whether children should give as gifts does not educate them. It takes away firsthand experience and their chance to examine why we do as we do. It also eliminates the opportunity to learn from mistakes. When we force our decisions on others we deny them the ability to assemble knowledge that will help them make informed decisions in the future. Children should be able to give gifts and be able to learn about what constitutes proper gift giving with sensitivity from experience. Lessons learned from realistic personal experience contribute toward “helping children to help themselves.”

DIABETES CURE: SCIENTISTS REVEAL L O W- C A L O R I E D I E T R E V E R S E S T Y P E 2 DISORDER IN JUST 4 MONTHS Type 2 diabetes could be reversed in just four months by simply following a low-calorie diet, a study has revealed. According to the research, people who reduced their calorific intake in their daily diet experienced a far greater improvement in the condition – and their health in general – than any medication offered. This means that life-saving insulin would no longer be needed to combat the disorder, cardiac function would improve and dangerous fats building up around patients’ hearts would be significantly reduced. As obesity levels soar, type 2 diabetes is fast emerging as one of the biggest priorities for the health profession.

Dr Sebastiaan Hammer, the study’s lead author, told The Express: ‘It is striking to see how a relatively simple intervention of a very low-calorie diet effectively cures Type 2 diabetes. ‘Lifestyle interventions may have more powerful beneficial cardiac effects than medication in these patients.’ The research has been hailed as a breakthrough which could revolutionise the treatment of what was thought to be an incurable lifelong condition. Dr Hammer, from the Department of Radiology at Leiden University Medical Centre in the Netherlands, added that the results showed significant improvements in patients after just 16 weeks of following a low-calorie diet.

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Eliezer and Miryam Vilinsky are educational consultants in private practice. They provide direct instruction to students, conduct teacher-training seminars and consult with schools and families worldwide. They can be reached at Educational Support Services at 426-3673 and at www.TReaching.com. The weekly edition of Educational Insights is available via subscription. Call for details.

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THE ADVOCATE December 29,

2011

‫ויגש תשע״ב‬

CLASSIFIEDS

To place a classified ad please call 845.770.1950 • or E-mail HELP WANTED

Sales@advocateNews.org HOUSE FOR SALE-FORSHAY

Commercial Industrial • Residential

Medical Center seeks two positions ASAP 1) RECEPTIONIST 2) DATA ENTRY Immediate Openings

‫דער אדוואקאט‬

Value is in the land, over a half an acre. For more info please call Rivky Kagan 845.659.2056.

Professional service & quality. That’s all you get. Free Estimates • Fully licensed & Insured

Kagan Realty

We start with design • Continue with quality • End with satisfaction!

Looking to buy or sell-? Give the Kagan Team a call -Rivky Kagan 845.659.2056 Yaakov Miller 914.414.3619 Kagan Realty

Yiddish or Spanish speaking VERY helpful

Please Call 845-352-6800 x 6834, or Email RCHealthCenter@Gmail.com

CONDOS FOR RENT-SALE 1 OR 2 BEDROOMS AVAILABLE . Please call Yaakov Miller 914.414.3619 or Rivky Kagan 845.659.2056.

Kagan Realty *INTERNS FOR NEWSPAPER*

POSITION WANTED I AM AVAILABLE 24/7 TO PROVIDE CAREGIVING TO THE ELDERLY. HOUSEKEEPING, DOCTOR'S APPOINTMENTS, MEDS, MEAL PREPERATION, ETC. REFRENCES AVAILABLE UPON REQUEST. CALL ANGELA AT 845-425-6051

...wanted to help newspaper grow, WANNA SEE YOUR WRITING IN PRINT? must be hard working. flexible hours. call 845-770-1950 or email:

editor@advocateNews.org this is exp. only, un-paid internship.

TAXI AVAILABLE

SENIOR GROUP RCDC WOMEN’S SENIOR GROUP PROGRAM 12:30 - 3:00PM

for a great afternoon, MONDAY & WED. FREE TRANSPORTATION AVAILABLE FOR INFORMATION PLEASE CALL

845.352.1400 x 3245

Cheapest In Town Mini Vans Available Pay after Shabbos or Yom Tov 24 hour service Local or Long Distance 425-4411 LA FAMILIA TAXI

A PROJECT OF OFA OF ROCKLAND COUNTY

CONDOS FOR RENT-SALE MONSEY BLUEBERRY HILL APARTMENTS FOR RENT

1 Bedroom from $1,140 2 Bedrooms from $1,600 3 Bedrooms from $2,025

NOT TO BE COMBINED WITH ANY OTHER OFFER

CALL BLUEBERRY HILL 845.352.4440

HELP WANTED S E L L I N G A D S F O R N E W S PA P E R • flexible hours • good pay • should have experience

call 845-770-1950

To place a classified ad please call 845.770.1950 or E-mail Sales@advocateNews.org

THE ADVOCATE December 29, 2011

FORECLOSURE COUNSELING

RCDC Housing, Inc. would like to help you...

We have a certified foreclosure counselor on staff who can assist you Call us for more information

(845) 352-1400 ext. 3243

‫ויגש תשע״ב‬

‫דער אדוואקאט‬

WEATHERIZATION WORKS! CALL DEPT. OF HOUSING AND WEATHERIZATION FOR INFORMATION

845.352.1400

RCDC HOUSING DEPARTMENT The following information is provided to the community by the RCDC Housing Department as a public service

PREPARE YOUR HOME FOR WINTER 1) Furnace Inspection •

Call an HVAC professional to inspect your furnace and clean ducts.

•

Stock up on furnace filters and change them monthly.

•

Consider switching out your thermostat for a programmable thermostat.If your home is heated by a hot-water radiator, bleed the valves by opening them slightly and when water appears, close them.

•

Remove all flammable material from the area surrounding your furnace.

2) Get the Fireplace Ready •

Cap or screen the top of the chimney to keep out rodents and birds.

•

If the chimney hasn't been cleaned for a while, call a chimney sweep to remove soot and creosote.

•

Buy firewood or chop wood. Store it in a dry place away from the exterior of your home.

•

Inspect the fireplace damper for proper opening and closing.

•

Check the mortar between bricks and tuckpoint, if necessary.

3) Check the Exterior, Doors and Windows •

Inspect exterior for crevice cracks and exposed entry points around pipes; seal them.

•

Use weatherstripping around doors to prevent cold air from entering the home and caulk windows.

•

Replace cracked glass in windows and, if you end up replacing the entire window, prime and paint exposed wood.

•

If your home has a basement, consider protecting its window wells by covering them with plastic shields.

•

Switch out summer screens with glass replacements from storage. If you have storm windows, install them.

4) Inspect Roof, Gutters & Downspouts • If your weather temperature will fall below 32 degrees in the winter, adding extra insulation to the attic will prevent warm air from creeping to your roof and causing ice dams. • Check flashing to ensure water cannot enter the home. • Clean out the gutters and use a hose to spray water down the downspouts to clear away debris. •

Consider installing leaf guards on the gutters or extensions on the downspouts to direct water away from the home.

5) Service Weather-Specific Equipment Drain gas from lawnmowers. Service or tune-up snow blowers. Replace worn rakes and snow shovels. Clean, dry and store summer gardening equipment. Sharpen ice choppers and buy bags of ice-melt / sand. 6) Check Foundations •

Rake away all debris and edible vegetation from the foundation.

•

Seal up entry points to keep small animals from crawling under the house.

•

Tuckpoint or seal foundation cracks. Mice can slip through space as thin as a dime.

•

Inspect sill plates for dry rot or pest infestation.

•

Secure crawlspace entrances.

7) Install Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors •

Buy extra smoke detector batteries and change them when daylight savings ends.

•

Install a carbon monoxide detector near your furnace and / or water heater.

•

Test smoke and carbon monoxide detectors to make sure they work.

•

Buy a fire extinguisher or replace an extinguisher older than 10 years.

8) Prevent Plumbing Freezes •

Locate your water main in the event you need to shut it off in an emergency.

•

Drain all garden hoses.

•

Insulate exposed plumbing pipes.

•

Drain air conditioner pipes and, if your AC has a water shut-off valve, turn it off.

•

If you go on vacation, leave the heat on, set to at least 55 degrees.

Removing Mold From Your Home One of the most common problems that homeowners deal with is mold. Even those who say that they do not have mold in most cases really do have it. What are the side-effects of having mold? Well, these will vary from person to person. Some people who are severely allergic will find it more difficult to breathe. While other people may suffer from headache, itchy or watery eyes, asthma, and still others will have no problem. In any event, whether it affects your health or not, mold is something that needs to be taken care of. Alleviating mold is a simple home improvement that you can do to make life a little easier. You will probably also be surprised at how well you will breathe after taking care of the mold. The first step is to determine where the mold is. Is it all over the house or just confined to one area? One of the most common places to have mold is in the basement since it is usually damp down there. Or many people have it in their bathrooms due to the moisture. A FEW SIMPLE TECHNIQUES TO KEEP THE MOLD FROM RETURNING

Use a dehumidifier in the house where the mold is occurring. This will help make the air less humid, making it harder for mold to grow. Also, for the bathrooms use the exhaust fan when taking hot showers or baths to keep the degree of steam down to a minimum. Secondly, check for leaks in the house to make sure that there is not a busted water pipe, which could lead to a mold infestation. Now comes the hard part, the dehumidifier is to prevent the mold from occurring, however how do you get rid of the mold now? Most people recommend using a bleach and water mixture to kill the mold. There are other green alternatives to those not to keen of using the chemicals. When cleaning the room remember too wet the mold down with water to start off, if you start scrubbing on dry mold it can float on the air into another room and begin attacking it as well. That is why it is a good idea to close off the rooms, but allow for some sort of ventilation, especially when using chemicals.

THE ADVOCATE December 29,

2011

‫ויגש תשע״ב‬

‫דער אדוואקאט‬

DATED MATERIAL POST MASTER PLEASE DELIVER SAME DAY

Monsey Family Medical Center presents a:

WOMAN’S CARE CENTRE OB/GYN WORKSHOP THURSDAY JANUARY 10, 2012 12:00PM OB/GYN providers, Dr. Allen, Dr. Kirshner, and Midwife Nancy Solomon will discuss and answer questions regarding all your OB/GYN concerns.

for more information or to make a reservation:

845-352-6800 EXT. 6844

The Woman’s Care Centre Monsey Family Medical Center 40 Robert Pitt Drive Monsey, New York 10952 workshop to take place on the 2nd floor, in the large conference room