Advocate News May 19, 2011 by TheAdvocate

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THE ADVOCATE Ingrown Toen ai

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Vol. 26 No. 18 • Rockland’s Independent Jewish Community Newspaper Since 1985 • 15 Iyar- 5771 May 19, 2011

Expanded Yiddish section on the back

COMMUNITY WINS. BUDGET NO, CANDIDATES YES By: S. Mandelbaum

Tuesday morning began with elections do heavy rains that alternated in not follow the strength and duration, and t r a d i t i o n a l limited the turnout of voters election proacross East Ramapo during cedures, as the the morning hours. Tradition- district regually, the highest turnout oc- lates them. The curs between 8 and 9 AM, and district, therebetween 5 and 7 PM, the times fore, can deTo better our patients, before andserve after people shuttle termine voting between their home and their hours and sevDr. Baldinger has job. When the rain slowed, the eral years ago increased voters came out. his hours. extended the He is now available every Thursday. for votVoter turnout in Tuesday’s elec- time ing to allow for tion was the highest ever – and the heaviest turnout did not oc- more people to cur during the normal early eve- have a say. ning hours, but rather came af- The biggest Dr. B. Albetter ter 9 PM, the traditional closing question on suggests you time for polling places. School the ballot was Winning candidate, Daniel Schwartz (left) and community activist Ronald Greenwald at a recent press conference in Monsey. LEARN MORE ABOUT:

es r To

Fun g

HEALTH HIGHLIGHTS

HEALTHY HERB GARDENS page 8 CARCINOGENS page 12 CHILDHOOD TANTRUMS page 12 NIGHTTIME FEAR IN CHILDREN page 14

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

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BREAKING NEWS: HOPSTEIN RUNNING FOR LEGISLATURE

By: S. Mandelbaum

In an interview given exclusively to The Advocate, Moshe Hopstein has announced his candidacy for the Rockland County Legislature. Hopstein will be running to represent District 13, which includes a large part of Spring Valley. The seat is currently held by Legislator Jacques Michel. Hopstein was born and raised in the area, and has been politically active for many years, personally taking on important projects that affect the community, and progressing with them farther than others have ever been able to as private citizens. Moshe Hopstein was the organizing force behind the Stonehouse flood mitigation project, a landmark project that is in its third year, requiring the assistance of town, county, village, and state officials. When flooding reached intolerable levels in the Stonehouse Road area particularly during heavy rains,

and nothing was done about it, Hopstein decided to take action. Organizing the neighborhood, he gathered the support of those affected to be able to arrange for meetings between him and several elected officials, including Town Supervisor Chris St. Lawrence, Rockland County Legislator Ilan Schoenberger, and County Executive Scott Vanderhoef. Working with these elected officials, as well as Ramapo Councilman Yitzy Ullman, who has also been a driving force behind this project, Hopstein brought all the officials together – literally – to the table to discuss what could be done. He worked to gain concessions and support from each of the governments to be able to gather the funding and logistics to move forward with a project that will expand the Pascack Brook, SEE BREAKING PAGE 4

that of the budget, which was proposed at just over $200 million. While past budgets were higher, this year, the district had to contend with a slashing of state funding. Even with the lower spending, the budget called for an almost 9% increase in property taxes. The South East

Ramapo Taxpayers Association, which organizes for elections relating to the school district as well as the library, campaigned heavily against the budget, arguing that the proposed tax increase was intolerable. Voters overwhelmingly rejected the budget proposal by a vote count of 11,015 to 5,931, or almost 2-to-1. The school board now has the option to rework the budget and have an election for a new one. If voters reject it again, the board will be forced to adopt an austerity budget, which would include a very minimal increase. SEE

VOTES

PAGE 4

STUDENTS JOIN “TORAH IM DERECH MUSEUM IN ERETZ”YESHIVA HIGH RECORD NUMBER SCHOOL TO OPEN By: M. Rubin

Participants of 2011-Siegelbaum Literary and Visual Arts Competition were honored at Holocaust Museum & Study Center reception The Holocaust Museum and Study Center honored the participants of this year’s Siegelbaum Literary and Visual Arts Competition at a reception on Monday night, May 16th. Students from 184 Middle and High Schools in the Lower Hudson Valley and New Jersey participated in the 2010/11 competition and submitted entries on “Heroic Survivors” in both the literary as well as visual arts categories. The number of students who participated in the competition this year was amazing”, said Lisa Stenchever, Education Director at the Museum. The Siegelbaum Competition was first introduced in 2005 and in no other year did the Museum SEE

RECORD

PAGE 4

By: A. Moeller

A group of dedicated and idealistic parents and mechanchim are planning to open a yeshiva high school for boys in the Rockland/Bergen County area, a yeshiva in which talmidim will be empowered to actively pursue a truly well rounded approach to learning.

The yeshiva will aim to craft independent learners, to engage their passions and emotions and broaden their intellects holistically – all from the perspective of Ratzon Hashem, ahavaso v'yira'so. Accordingly, SEE

YESHIVA

PAGE 4

THE ADVOCATE May 19, 2011 AS WE GO TO PRESS...

REP. ENGEL PRAISES NEW SANCTIONS ON SYRIAN REGIME

Congressman Eliot Engel (D-NY17) applauded the decision by the Obama Administration to impose sanctions against Syrian President Bashar Assad and six other Syrian officials, freezing assets that fall under U.S. jurisdiction and, for the most part, bar American individuals and companies from doing business with the Syrian officials. The sanctions came as a result of Syria’s human rights abuses during its violent crackdown on anti-government protests in which an estimated 850 killed and another 8,000 arrested by their own government. Rep. Engel, a senior member of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, wrote the Syria Accountability and Lebanese Sovereignty Restoration Act of 2003, which mandates sanctions against Syria for its threatening activities.

A Weekly Editorial By:

Mendel Hoffman The community finally united together. Public school advocates and private school advocates alike voted down the more than 8 percent increase in budget. We have all voted in candidates that have wide vision of the economic times. And hopefully one that the community can live with. In no way could we say elected officials from the non-public school community have no interest in public interests-they do. After all, it is the elected official from the non-public schools who proposed the budget in the first place. The elected officials just got the message the district does not have the money. What the public school community fails to realize is that the majority of the school district, namely, the private school community, allows those programs to continue. Mandatory Kindergarten is one great example. The board can decide to take away every extracurricular programs and keep only those things that are solely part of the educational curriculum. But they do not and they will not. They care about the students, no matter public or private.

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,

LETTER TO THE EDITOR To the Editor,

22 Main Street • Monsey, NY 10952 Tel (845) 770-1950

Fax (845) 352-5290

E-mail: Editor@AdvocateNews.org ******* Mendel Hoffman | President & Publisher A. Moeller

| Managing Editor/Designer

S. Mandelbaum |Contributor M. Rubin

|Contributor

********** •THE VOICE OF THIS PAPER DOES NOT REPRESENT ANY GROUP. •THE ADVOCATE IS AN INDEPENDENT ENGLISH AND YIDDISH NEWSPAPER. •THE ADVOCATE IS NOT RESPONSIBLE FOR THE KASHRUS OF ANY PRODUCT IN THE NEWSPAPER. • COPYRIGHT 2011 ISSN 1055-9132

• All material in this paper is the exclusive property of THE ADVOCATE and cannot be reproduced without the consent of the publisher. The views and opinions expressed by our columnists do not necessarily reflect the publisher’s. • Any article submitted to the newspaper can be edited at the discretion of the publisher. • The newspaper will not be liable for errors appearing in an advertisement beyond the cost of space occupied by the error. The advertiser assumes the responsibility for errors in telephone orders. • In-house design: All advertisements designed and prepared by The Advocate are the property of the newspaper and cannot be reproduced without consent of the publisher. • The health information articles contained in this publication are for information only and not intended as medical advice. For health care advice and information contact your health care provider. • Editorials related to political endorsements or support are written by an independent committee. They do not represent the views of The Advocate staff. It should not be considered as endorsements or support by this paper.

‫דער אדוואקאט‬

Publisher's Desk

“Syria is not only hosting the world's worst terrorist groups and developing weapons of mass destruction, now it's murdering its own people. It's long past time to impose the full range of sanctions on Syria and to work with our allies to tighten the screws on the Assad regime. President Obama's resolution which slammed Syria in the U.N. Human Rights Council was an excellent first step, and these sanctions are an appropriate way to increase the pressure,” said Rep. Engel. “The next step should be to impose all remaining sanctions under the Syria Accountability Act.”

THE JEWISH ADVOCACY COUNCIL, INC.

‫בחוקותי תשע״א‬

Our organization wishes to thank all the residents of the East Ramapo Central School District who came out yesterday to vote. The budget that was rejected by the voters had a proposed 8.88% tax increase. During the campaign I was continuously asked if the South East Ramapo Taxpayers Association recommended board members were the majority on the school board, why on earth did they recommend an 8.88% tax increase? Now that the budget has been defeated by a “landslide” we are requesting the board members who we helped get elected to adopt a contingency budget with a zero percent tax increase, or at the worst with a 1-2% tax in-

crease, as other school districts in Rockland County have done. If the board adopts it, another vote on the budget is not required. Of course after the board adopts a zero percent tax increase budget there will be many complaints about having to cut services and staff. The fault lies strictly with the unions. 70% of the budget is comprised of employees salaries and benefits, many school district unions have modified their contracts in order to minimize a tax increase. The East Ramapo Central School District unions have adamantly refused to renegotiate their contract, so they should not complain if they have to suffer painful consequences. Many school districts in Rockland County do not have assistant principals in all their elementary schools, if we cannot afford it we will

Five Day Forecast for Rockland Thursday May 19

Friday May 20

High 70° High 71o Low 50° Low 52o

Shabbos May 21

Sunday May 22

Monday May 23

High 68° Low 49°

High 67o Low 45o

High 70o Low 53o

have to do without them, and the rest of the employees will have to work harder. The employees should also pay much more towards their health and pension benefits, as the teachers in New York City have recently been required to do. We are living in very difficult economic times everybody has to sacrifice including the unions. Other school boards in Rockland County and elsewhere have made painful decisions, and so should the East Ramapo Central School District Board of Education. The board were not elected to make only easy decisions. -Kalman Weber President of South East Ramapo Taxpayers Association

THE ADVOCATE May 19, 2011

If you ride a You have to wear a

‫בחוקותי תשע״א‬

‫דער אדוואקאט‬

Monsey Family Medical Center welcomes

Dr. David Menchell

to the Department of Allergy and Immunology He will begin seeing patients on Wednesday May 25th.

It’s the law!!! Dr. Albetter says;

“enjoy the spring time weather”

For an immediate appointment with the Department of Allergy and Immunology Call 352-6800 and feel better today. An important safety message from

Ramapo Supervisor

Christopher P. St. Lawrence and the Ramapo Town Board

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

County of Rockland Highway Department

NEWS RELEASE

Date: May 11, 2011 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Contact: Skip Vezzetti (845) 638-5060

County Highway Department announces start of New Hempstead Road reconstruction project Motorists can expect delays, detours during construction

New City, NY – The Rockland County Highway Department today announced that preparation has already begun for the New Hempstead Road rehabilitation project, with construction to officially begin within the next few weeks. The 28-month project will include the reconstruction of the portion of New Hempstead Road between the Palisades Parkway southbound ramp in the Town of Ramapo and North Main Street in New City. The project goals are to: • • •

replace obsolete and deteriorated infrastructure including pavement, drainage and several large culverts improve safety and mobility for motorists and pedestrians by constructing turning lanes and sidewalk/safety shoulders improve the road corridor appearance with streetscape improvements including paving, stone walks, granite curbing, ornamental street lamps, stone-faced retaining walls and landscaping

The road corridor between Main Street and Little Tor Road, New Hempstead Road will be reconstructed to provide sidewalks, including a new sidewalk connection to Little Tor Road, streetlamps and street trees. The design of sidewalks, street lamps and plantings have been coordinated to match the features used by the Town of Clarkstown on South Main Street. The New Hempstead Road / Little Tor Road Intersection will be expanded to provide additional turning lanes. Between Little Tor Road and the Parkway ramp five-foot wide safety shoulders will be added to accommodate pedestrians and bicyclists. The pavement structure and most existing drainage facilities will be replaced between North Main Street and the Palisades Parkway southbound ramp. Construction will begin on the portion of New Hempstead Road between Little Tor Road and Main Street in New City. The first major item of work will be the replacement of the severely deteriorated and flood prone culvert carrying the Demarest Kill under New Hempstead Road, which will be replaced with a new stone-faced concrete arch bridge. To accomplish this, New Hempstead Road will be closed between the County Office Building exit driveway and North Main Street in New City. Traffic will be detoured on a temporary roadway through the parking area adjacent to the Chase Bank and a temporary traffic signal will be set up on North Main Street. - more -

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 May 19, 2011

BREAKING NEWS FROM PAGE 1 which causes the flooding. The Pascack Brook stretches through the area, and contributes greatly to flooding that has devastated basements and homes for years. To date, it was Moshe Hopstein who collected easements from the neighbors in order to move the project forward, and he wants this project completed as soon as possible. One of the issues he is running on is this very project, which he says will be pushed even harder if he is elected to the county legislature. “This is one of the biggest issues facing our district, and we need a county legislator who will make completing this project a top priority,” Mr. Hopstein said. As a legislator, he will have even more influence on bringing this project to a speedy completion. Mr. Hopstein has also been working on a related flooding project in Spring Valley with the Rockland County Sewer District and its commissioners. Just like the Stonehouse Road project, he has arranged meetings with the Sewer Commission of the county and its Chairman, as well as other town and county elected officials, to address flooding caused by clogged drains and pipes. “Some of these pipes are 100 years old,” Hopstein explained, referring to the underground sewer lines in Spring Valley. “When they clog up, they back up into people’s homes, which is an incredible hardship and a major health issue.” In meeting with officials, he has been able to arrange for some replacements to be made, as well as for new valves to be put in to prevent clogging and flooding. This too, is an issue he would like to explore as a county legislator, and will have greater access as a legislator to the Sewer Commission to accomplish even more for the residents of his district. Moshe Hopstein has also served in political offices. For the past several years, he has held a seat in the Ramapo and Rockland County Democratic Committees, a key political group that helps elected officials and works with them

on issues facing different communities. Hopstein also served on the East Ramapo Board of Education for the past three years. During that time, he said, he and the board worked to increase access to special education programs and funding, and worked to keep property taxes stable. Heading into this campaign, Hopstein seeks to have a conversation with residents about the issues they care about, and will govern that way if he is elected to the legislature. “I don’t want to have a negative campaign. I want to run a campaign on the issues that affect our community,” he told The Advocate. One issue he would like to see the county address is the application process that people need to go through in order to get a contractor’s license or other professional licenses. “So many hardworking people with legitimate companies seek approval to be licensed in their field, but the process is simply too long and complicated for them,” he said. “Easing that process will be good for the applicants, but will also benefit consumers, who will have more of a selection for skilled workers, leading to more competition and therefore lower prices for services.” With the county facing a budget deficit that is at least $50 million large, the larger picture of running the county is also part of Hopstein’s campaign. He says he understands the county’s delicate finances, and will work with other legislator to find permanent solutions to reduce the deficit. Hopstein points to his experience as a school board member, where he managed a budget of over $200 million a year, as an example of his knowledge and how he can put that to use as a legislator. The school board in recent years has cut spending to protect taxpayers from astronomical increases, and Moshe Hopstein believes this is what the county ought to do. “At a time when our families are working to cut their expenses in the face of diminished income, so should this county,” he said.

RECORD FROM PAGE 1 receive nearly as many entries. “It was an amazing success on the school level as well”, pointed out Anne Katz, chair of the competition. There were teachers in 21 schools who encouraged their students to submit poems, writings, pictures, paintings or videos capturing their thoughts and emotions on “Heroic Survivors”. In comparison: 15 schools participated and 104 entries were provided for the competition last year. The reception room at the Museum in Spring Valley was filled with over 140 students, parents and teachers who celebrated this year’s participants, as well as the winners in each category. Tanja Sarett, Executive Director of the Holocaust Museum & Study Center, was touched by the wide interest generated by the competition and the participation of students from diverse backgrounds. “Seeing you all here at the Museum is quite inspiring and a beautiful snapshot of our wider region,” said Mrs. Sarett. She appealed to the students to follow their passions and to embrace literature and art: “Art is powerful tool to learn a lot about yourself; it’s a special opportunity for you to ex-

plore your feelings and to grow as a human being”. Entries in the Siegelbaum Literary and Visual Arts Competition were judged in two separate divisions: one for Middle School/Junior High School students (grades six through eight), and the other for students in High School (grades nine through twelve). All entries had to be original works and fall into the categories of prose, poetry or visual arts. The Siegelbaum Competition was made possible thanks to the generosity of Judy Siegelbaum and her family. The mission of the Holocaust Museum & Study Center’s is to educate, examine and explore the lessons of the Holocaust with authenticity, dignity, and compassion, so that young and old alike may learn from them, and create a society of mutual respect and understanding, devoid of the hatred of the past. The Museum is committed to paying tribute to those who perished during the Holocaust and to those who survived the worst of times. The Holocaust Museum & Study Center has been located in Rockland County since 1988, and is unique in the region.

‫בחוקותי תשע״א‬

‫דער אדוואקאט‬

VOTE FROM PAGE 1 There were elections for four of the nine seats on the board. In the race to succeed Nathan Rothschild, the president of the school board who did not run for this election, Yehuda Weissmandel defeated Antonio Luciano, who previously ran for the school board. Luciano is well known for bringing a vast array of recording equipment to all East Ramapo meetings and has been a frequent critic of the school board. Weissmandel has been active in private schools as an administrator and a parent. The vote count was 9,797 for Weissmandel, and

7,789 for Luciano. A loss of 2,008 The seat currently held by Aaron Weider, who decided not to run for re-election, was won by Daniel Beno Schwartz, of New Hempstead. Schwartz, a lawyer, said he would use his skills as a mediator to bring together the different factions of the district. Schwartz defeated

Brenda Carole Anderson, a retired educator who said she would bring a teacher’s perspective to the board if elected. The vote count was 9,820 for Schwartz, and 7,707 for Anderson. Losing by 2,113 votes. Moshe Hopstein was re-elected to the board, fending off a challenge from Peggy Hatton, who has run before for the seat. She has frequently attacked the school board during board meetings, often referencing the Kiryas Joel school district. “Joe taxpayer should not be paying for Joel taxpayer,” she said at a meeting, accusing the board of wrongdoing by sending East Ramapo funds for special needs students who attend Kiryas Joel schools, as required by law. The vote count was 9,780 for Hopstein, and 7,807 for Hatton. 1,953 less votes. JoAnne Thompson, who was recently appointed by the board to fill a vacancy was re-elected without an opponent. The public school candidates joined together as a slate, and called themselves the “H.A.L.T. Team,” derived from their initials. Their slogan, “HALT the crisis in our schools,” was an attempt to take back the school board, the majority of which is from the private school community. After Tuesday’s election, the private school community holds a 6-3 supermajority of the board.

YESHIVA FROM PAGE 1 the purpose of the yeshiva is to create a new generation enriched by the full scope of our rich heritage. The yeshiva will encourage and urge its students to ask any and all questions, affording the talmidim an honest and open approach to the full breadth and depth of Torah and Yahadus. The Rabbeim of the yeshiva will be fully capable of such a pedagogical approach, as their breadth and depth of both Torah and secular knowledge are truly spectacular. The yeshiva will strive to emulate the call of Rav Samson Raphael Hirsch zt”l: “Everything that you think and feel, everything that you strive for and desire, and everything that you possess, shall be unto you only the means to, only have value to you, for getting nearer to G-d, for bringing G-d near to you.” Accordingly, the yeshiva will strive to accomplish one of the ideals of Torah im Derech Eretz that has never been fully realized – viz., to position its secular studies within the complementary frameworks of understanding the Torah (as per the Vilna Gaon's statement, cited in the introduction to the Pe'as HaShulchan, that the more a person lacks in secular learning, the more he will lack in his understanding of Toras Hashem), of cognition of Nifla'os HaBorei and Yad Hashem in history, of human nature and psychology and Mussar's relationship to them, and of Avodas Hashem in general. This will be achieved by ongoing interactions among Rabbeim, faculty and students directed at such contextualization. The yeshiva will follow a traditional Seder HaYom, with Limudei Kodesh until mid-afternoon, Limudei Chol and a Night Seder. Following the all important principle of Chinuch l'naar al pi

darcho, while pursuing a goal of producing Gedolei Torah the yeshiva will also create a learning experience that provides pragmatic guidance to talmidim who aim to support a family while still drinking the sweet waters of Torah. The yeshiva will be characterized by a tight-knit personalized environment. Accordingly, it will encourage students to design an individualized program with parental and faculty guidance. The yeshiva will offer two tracks: a College/ Professional track and a Hands-On skill based track. Both tracks will have core knowledge requirements in the traditional subjects, but will be specifically tailored to each of the two tracks. The College/Professional Track will offer rigorous college prep classes, whereas the Hands-On Track will require high standards for the core requirements, but will devote more time to life skill topics – viz,, personal accounting, small business management, small business computer skills etc. The yeshiva will supply students in both tracks with unique opportunities for real-time apprenticeships in their desired fields. Last, but not least (rather, acharon, acharon chaviv!) the yeshiva will bring a special profundity to the study of Gemara and other Limudei Kodesh, providing the electric effect that leads to the realization of ki heim chayeinu v'orech yameinu. The yeshiva is enrolling a ninth grade for this coming Elul. An informational meeting for parents will take place Monday evening, May 23, 2011, at 357 Viola Road, Spring Valley, NY 10977. For more information please call or 973349-2282, or email: torah.im.derech. eretz.yeshiva@gmail.com.

THE ADVOCATE May 19, 2011



‫דער אדוואקאט‬

Where affordability and quality come standard

Comfortable yet affordable brand new housing for middle income families.



‫בחוקותי תשע״א‬

Beautifully designed 3 and 4 Bedroom



State-of-the-art playground equipment and ample outdoor areas for recreation and relaxation.

units.

The Ramapo Local Development Corporation, a non-profit organization created by the Ramapo Town Board, is now offering housing subsidies that can help you achieve your dream of home ownership! Eligible applicants will receive a $40,000 matching grant from the Ramapo Local Development Corporation in addition to the NYS Affordable Homes Corporation’s award of $40,000, which will provide approved participants a total of $80,000 in savings towards the purchase of your new home. To be eligible, project participants must have an estimated minimum verifiable income of $59,700 (based on a 5% downpayment). All units must be owner occupied. Limited space available.

Applications will be made available at the following locations beginning May 23, 2011: The Community Outreach Center 50 Melnick Drive Monsey, New York

A Representative from the Ramapo Local Development Corp. will be available on Tuesday, May 24, 2011 from 2PM– 5PM, to assist with applications and answer your questions.

Ramapo Cultural Arts Center 64 North Main Street Spring Valley, New York

A Representative from the Ramapo Local Development Corp. will be available on Wednesday May 25, 2011 from 10AM– 12PM, and Thursday, May 26, 2011 at 7PM- 8:30PM, to assist with applications and answer your questions.

For more information, please call the Ramapo Local Development Corporation at (845) 517- 4888 COMPLETE OFFERING TERMS ARE IN AN OFFERING PLAN AVAILABLE FROM SPONSER. THE FILE NO. IS CD-10-0227.

Children are not segmented. They are whole. Like all human beings, they have interdependent systems that run throughout their entire selves, especially their hearts and minds. When one part of their functioning becomes weakened, it does not mean that all parts will operate deficiently, but all parts are affected to some degree. If a child exhibits difficulty learning, that presents a struggle. Although his socialemotional self may be fully intact, his need to find help for his learning difficulty taxes his emotional department at least nominally. Pursuit of the appropriate learning help and solving the learning difficulties may be straightforward, however even the “simple” cases require attention via a whole-child approach. A whole-child approach ensures that these cases remain simple and that one part of the system does not step out of line with the others. We raise this point because we are observing a growing trend toward specialization. Professionals are carving out ever-smaller niches for themselves and specializing in the services that they deliver to clients. Even within the field of reading instruction, for instance, you can find individuals who are specialists in teaching single reading programs. This can present a problem, but it doesn’t have to. If someone is expert in teaching a single instructional program, this is ideal if the program fits the right child exactly. When the correct match between this program and that child is made, maximum progress should result. However, when singleprogram experts prescribe their wares for

Whole Children Benefit from Teamwork all reading sufferers, some children are mismatched. This is why professionals who are well-versed in children and how they read, not only in specific reading programs, can serve a wider range of children with difficulties. We are not denigrating those who wish to be highly specialized in specific programs, but please do not represent those programs as one size fits all, because they don’t. Specialists are valuable. They dedicate their attention and training toward a highly focused area. They are the best people to tap when their specialty is required. At the same time, we have seen, as many of you may have, how some specialists fall short in their responsibility as a team player. Many of us experience this problem when we need to consult those in the medical field. A visit to a medical specialist often results in receipt of prescriptions for medication and/or therapy to help remedy the presenting problem. The visit to the specialist was hopefully suggested by a general practitioner who initially saw the patient. He or she detected the problem and referred the patient to the specialist. A competent generalist also took a reading about how the problem affects other body systems. A common problem is that the specialist rarely touches base or reports back to the general practitioner. In other words, he treats one part of the patient’s body without monitoring whether it will keep in sync with the others. Here, too, we do not wish to generalize because there are competent specialists who do coordinate with family doctors, but unfortunately there are many who don’t. Children deserve the same type of coordination when it comes to their learning. We highly respect referrals for our services when they come from regular classroom teachers. These are the generalists. They

detect a problem and encourage families to seek help. Do the helpers who ultimately work with the child communicate and coordinate with the classroom teacher? We cannot emphasize enough the importance of coordinating with family and school when helping a child in any area of specialization. The regard for all parts of the system matters most within each child, as learning affects self-esteem, attitude or attention level and vice versa.

"Either way, coordination is the key."

Children can have learning-only challenges, or they can face complications that involve attention deficits or emotional instability. Very often children suffer from combinations of all three: learning, attention, and behavioral issues, because they are interdependent. This means that treatment must include knowledge and expertise in all areas. Children can either receive help from those who are well-versed in all of these areas and who are proficient in addressing all of them simultaneously, or they can sign up with a team of professionals, each an expert in her own area. Either way, coordination is the key. The second approach, which involves a combination of adult interveners, requires coordination by someone who will serve as a caseworker. This individual will keep lines of communication and coordination open between family, school, and all specialized professionals. He will make sure that the proper balance is maintained within the whole child. For the family that has to foot the bill for services, our recommendation amounts to the need to hire an additional individual who

serves as the caseworker. Financially, this is an additional tax, but a very necessary one. The alternative is to contract the services of those who provide services in all areas, whom we call “generalist-specialists”. They understand whole children and know how to monitor and regulate all systems that contribute to learning and social-emotional wellbeing. By the way, these generalist-specialists are also wise enough not to work solo when needs arise that are beyond their range of knowledge and training. They also pair up with outside professionals in medical and mental health fields. The difference is that your generalist-specialist will serve as the caseworker because his training includes the appropriate communication and coordination skills with all parties, along with helping the child directly. No need to hire a separate caseworker. Yes, we know what we are talking about because we do this all the time, and as we started out saying, we are concerned about the growing trend away from the wholechild approach. Unfortunately precious time is lost when children subscribe to long term segmented education and intervention. Whole-child education is unbeatable because it sees each child’s strengths and weaknesses and, based upon them, develops ways for “helping children to help themselves.” Eliezer and Miryam Vilinsky are educational consultants in private practice. They conduct teacher-training seminars and consult with schools and families locally, nationally, and internationally. 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.

THE ADVOCATE May 19, 2011

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‫דער אדוואקאט‬

By: S. Mandelbaum WASHINGTON Trump Ends paign. Romney faces several challenges in a primary elecPresidential Bid tion, but his campaign beReal estate mogul Donald Trump, whose premature campaign for the presidency tanked in recent days because President Obama released his full birth certificate, and he then found himself on the wrong end of many jokes, has announced that he will officially not run for president. Trump launched his campaign on the issue of the president’s birth, and when the issue was finally laid to rest, he had little else to run on. Obama himself and others roasted him a great deal during the annual White House Correspondent’s Dinner. Trump said he believed he would have won the primary and the presidency, but he wanted to stay in the business world. The White House had previously said they believed Trump had no chance of making it anywhere in a campaign, and political pundits on both sides of the aisle agreed. Recently, Republican leaders have been privately urging him to end his presidential ambitions.

Romney Raises 10 million In one Day Mitt Romney, who will be running for president, raised over $10 million in a single day for his race. At the Los Angeles Convention Center, 700 prominent fundraisers gathered for a day of making phone calls to their contacts, pressing for money for Romney’s cam-

lieves he will overcome them and scare off other challengers with a large warchest early on. Romney believes he will raise $40 million in the first quarter of the race.

Gingrich Attacks Ryan Budget Newt Gingrich, who launched his presidential campaign, attacked the budget proposal put forth by Republican Congressman Paul Ryan as “rightwing social engineering.” Gingrich’s attack set off a firestorm of response among Republican leaders. Eric Cantor, the Majority Leader, said that what he said made no sense since only three Republicans voted against the Ryan budget, and if Gingrich means what he said, he was attacking the entire party. Others said he should end his campaign, adding they felt that after saying this he would not get any Republican support.

New Details Emerge On Bin Laden Killing Before Seal Team 6 went into the compound where Osama bin Laden was hiding, President Obama and administration officials understood that if they failed to capture or kill him during this mission, it would forever destroy their relationship with Pakistan and create permanent politi-

cal problems for Obama. The mission had problems from the start, as the Navy SEALs were supposed to enter the compound secretly, but one of their helicopters hit a wall of the compound, creating large amount of noise and forcing the pilot to nosedive the low-flying copter and requiring the crew inside to leave the chopper in the open. They then all entered the compound from the lower floor, firing their way through, clearing the floors. They found Osama bin Laden at the end of a hallway on the top floor of the compound where they thought he would be, and he then ducked into a side room. The forces followed him and shot him in the room, before he could reach his weapons.

Silver & Cuomo Duke It Out Governor Andrew Cuomo launched his “People First” campaign, a series of trips to meet people and speak to them about issues facing the state. Cuomo is pushing for several goals of his to pass the legislature. But the leader of the Assembly, Shelly Silver, says his tour is totally “irrelevant.” The Speaker said that Cuomo was simply campaigning, while he and others were governing. Saying that the governing was going on in Albany, Silver said Cuomo should speak to legislators. Cuomo shot back, saying he did reach out to legislators and was speaking to the people, because he felt they were relevant, drawing a dis-

tinction between himself and Silver, and implying Silver felt the people were not an important part of the process. Tensions have been heating up as Cuomo is pushing for a property tax cap, while Assembly Democrats are looking for a deal on an important rent regulations proposal, which matters dearly to all Assembly members from New York City.

Skelos Releases Ethics, Not Income Info While Senate majority leader Dean Skelos released his ethics reports, he has not released details about his income. Skelos’s reports state that he makes between $100,000 and $250,000 a year working in a Long Island law firm, and that he has over $800,000 in stocks. However, he did not release a list of his law clients. Skelos stated he does not represent anyone with business before the state, but his firm does. Skelos also called on Cuomo to release his full ethics report.

Cuomo Dines With County Chairs, Supports Jacobs On Monday night, Governor Cuomo hosted all 62 county chairs of local Democratic Committees across the state to discuss politics. The chair of the State party, Jay Jacobs, went into the meeting with rumors swirling around him about whether or not Cuomo would want to ax him and re-

ALBANY

place him with the Executive Director of the party, Charlie King, a close all of Cuomo’s who actually ran against him in 2006 for Attorney General. However, Cuomo showered praise on Jacobs during the dinner, and made it clear he would support him to stay on as chair, at least for the next year.

Silver Re-Introduces Millionaire’s Tax Assembly Speaker Sheldon Silver has re-introduced the so-called millionaire’s tax, which is an extra state income tax for those earning several hundred thousand dollars a year. The proposed tax is set to expire soon, and Silver wanted its extension renewed in the state budget. Cuomo and the Republican Senate would not budge on the issue, so he shelved it for another time. Silver said he is taking it out again, and even though it may not pass the senate and would likely be vetoed by the governor even if it did.

State Creates Violent Offender Registry The state senate passed a measure that would create a statewide violent offender registry so that residents will know when a violent offender has moved into their neighborhood, and can access the registry at any time to see everyone on it.

RELIABLE BROKERAGE INSURANCE *******************

Henry Kellner 845-783-6286

THE ADVOCATE May 19, 2011

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LAG B'AOMER WHY NOT EXPLORE ONE OF ROCKLAND’S MAGNIFICENT NATURE PARKS? Experience a family friendly walk in Rockland County Parks. Sunday is an opportunity to explore the beautiful, natural environment that we have here in Rockland County. With over one-third of the County designated as parkland, there is a lot to explore! Here are some parks that have proper hiking trails and are recommended by the Rocklandsteps organization. Kennedy Dells Park , Hook Mountain State, Greenbrook Sanctuary, Kakiat Park, Iona Island, Reeves Meadow, Blauvelt State Park , Forest View, Popolopen Gorge , Esposito Rail Trail Kennedy Dells Park , Tallman Mountain State Park, Dater Mountain Nature Park, Demarest Kill Park , Tallman Mountain State , Mt. Ivy Park , Nyack Beach State Park , Dater Mountain Nature Park .

Important information about the walk/hikes: • Remember to Wear proper footwear (closed-toe sturdy shoes such as walking shoes/boots or sneakers) and clothing (light- colored) and seasonally appropriate attire such as a jacket, hat, or gloves depending on the weather and bring along binoculars, water, sunscreen, a snack, and walking sticks if desired. • As with any physical activity program, it is recommended you speak to your physician before starting. • For more information about the trails visit www.rocklandsteps.org/ walks.

THE ADVOCATE May 19, 2011

MAY FLOWERS

thoroughly.

The Advocate guide to your herb garden

Part 1 in a 2 part series

GETTING STARTED Light Most herbs are easy to grow, but you must select the proper location to grow them. Most herbs need a sunny location, and only a few, including angelica, woodruff and sweet cicely, are better grown in partial shade. The oils, which account for the herb's flavor, are produced in the greatest quantity when plants receive six to eight hours of full sunlight each day. If you don't have a good, sunny location, many herbs will tolerate light shade, but their growth and quality will not be as good. Soil Herbs will grow in any good garden soil. The soil should not be extremely acid or alkaline; a soil nearly neutral is best for most herbs. A pH reading between 6.5 and 7.0 produces the best herbs. (Monsey soil is on the acidic side, but there are a few ways to amend the soil to bring up its PH and ‘sweeten’ it. One popular way is to ad lime.) Most herbs do not require a highly fertile soil. Highly fertile soils tend to produce excessive foliage that is poor in flavor. Herbs grow best when soils have adequate organic matter. In preparing average soils, add several bushels of peat moss or compost to each 100 square feet of garden area to improve soil condition and help retain moisture.

best growth. Treat young plants for the garden just as you would treat young salvia or pepper plants. Because some plants take longer than others to develop, start those with smaller seeds first, preferably in February. You may later transplant them into individual pots and plant them in the garden after danger of frost is past. The finer the seeds, the shallower you should sow them. A few herbs do not transplant well. Sow them directly into the garden. Plant anise, coriander, dill and fennel directly in the garden and don¹t transplant them. For direct seeding outdoors, plant in spring after all danger of frost is past and the soil is beginning to warm up. Make the soil into a fine, level seed bed. As a general rule, sow seeds at a depth of twice their diameter.

If the only area available is poorly drained, you need to modify the area. Build raised beds or install underground drainage tiles to grow herbs successfully. Preparation Once you select a site, cultivate the soil to a depth of 12 to 18 inches, then level it. If only a shallow layer of topsoil exists above hard subsoil, remove the topsoil temporarily. Break up the subsoil, adding organic matter. After improving the subsoil, put it back. Even though the topsoil may be better than the subsoil, the topsoil may also need additional organic matter. Pests Few insects or diseases attack herbs. In some localities, rusts infect mints. In hot, dry weather, spider mites damage some herbs. Aphids attack anise, caraway, dill and fennel. Grasshoppers and certain caterpillars attack herbs when conditions are right. Control is usually not necessary until you notice a problem.

PROPAGATION METHODS Seeds You can grow many herbs from seeds. If possible, sow the seeds in pots or flats indoors in late winter. They need a sunny window and cool temperatures (60º F) for

You can layer anytime from spring to late summer. Allow the rooted shoot to remain in place until the following spring. Then cut it from the parent plant and plant it into the desired location. Winter protection Many herbs suffer winter damage in our climate, so some winter protection for perennial herbs is advisable. Many herbs have shallow roots that heave out during spring thawing and freezing of soil. A loose mulch spread over the roots about 4 inches deep can provide adequate pro-

Some established herbs multiply asexually by cutting, division or layering. Layering is suitable for many perennials with flexible branches. Division works well for tarragon, chives and mint. You can propagate lavender, lemon balm, scented geraniums, sage and rosemary from cuttings. You can take cuttings of herbs any time during late spring and summer from healthy, well-established plants. Those taken in fall take longer to root. Healthy tip growth makes the best cuttings. Cuttings of vigorous soft shoots or old woody stems are less desirable.

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tection. Evergreen boughs, straw or oak leaves are good materials for a mulch. D o n ’ t mulch until after the ground is frozen in early winter. Do not remove mulch until you see signs of new growth in the early spring. If the mulch compacts during the winter from heavy snows, fluff it up in early spring before growth begins.

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Healthy Living

Drainage When selecting a site for an herb garden, you must consider drainage. None of the important herbs grow in wet soils, but a few, such as mint, angelica and lovage, thrive in fairly moist soils.

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THYME...

An herb for coughs

Cut just below a node to form a cutting that is 3 to 5 inches long. Most herbs should root in two to four weeks. Plant them outdoors in a permanent location the following spring. Division is useful for multiplying healthy, established plants that may be two to four years old. Division allows modest increase for plants like chives, mints and French tarragon. Divide herbs in early spring before growth begins. Dig up the old plant and cut or pull it apart into sections. Replant the sections and keep them moist until the new plants are established. Layering is the simplest and most reliable method to increase perennial herbs such as thyme, lemon balm, winter savory, sage, bay and rosemary. The basic principle is to produce roots on a stem while it is still attached to the parent plant. After you root the stem, detach the new plant from the parent. Select a healthy branch that is growing close to the ground and that is flexible enough to bend down to the soil. While holding the branch close to the soil, bend the top 6 to 10 inches of the stem into a vertical position. It may be helpful to scrape the bark on the underside of the branch at the bend. Bury the bent, scraped portion 3 to 6 inches deep, and anchor it with a wire loop. Insert a small stake to hold the top upright. Water

Widely used in cooking (thyme is one of three herbs in the French mixture “bouquet garniÓ), thyme is also a medicinal herb.

A plant that heals

• Traditionally used to treat coughs and respiratory illnesses, such as bronchitis; approved by German Commission E, an agency that regulates pharmaceuticals, to treat respiratory infections • Herbalists use thyme in infusions, teas, extracts, compresses, gargles

• Add several springs of fresh thyme to a pot of boiling water, make a tent over the pot with a towel and breathe steam to relieve congestion

• Distilled thyme oil is often used as an ingredient in commercial expectorants; avoid taking thyme oil straight, by mouth, as it is considered toxic Source: University of Maryland Medical Center, About.com, MCT Photo Service Graphic: Pat Carr © 2011 MCT

THE ADVOCATE May 19, 2011

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Your Finances

HIDDEN BANK FEES

Lose your PNC Bank debit card on vacation, and it'll likely cost you $32.50 for a replacement. If U.S. Bank gets more than one of your statements returned in the mail because of an incorrect address, you'll be charged $5 -- for each return. If you feel banks are nickel-and-diming you these days, you'd be right. Free banking has gone the way of the free in-flight meal. Banks are now restricted in some fees they can charge -- and stand to lose billions of dollars in revenue as a result -- so they're coming up with new fees for things that used to be free. Checking accounts at the 10 biggest U.S. banks had a median 49 fees in October, according to an April study by the Pew Charitable Trusts. But there are ways to beat your bank at its own game -- and minimize or avoid some fees. Monthly Service Fees. More banks have gone back to charging you for holding your money. And those fees keep going up. The average monthly fee for a non-interest-bearing checking account was $2.49 in 2010, up from $1.77 in 2009, according to Bankrate. com. An interest-bearing account charged an average $13.04, up from $12.55. The easiest way to eliminate that fee: direct deposit. About three in five banks with a monthly service fee will waive it if a customer signs up for regular direct

deposit, according to an April study from the U.S. Public Interest Research Group, a consumer advocacy group. And it doesn't just apply to a paycheck. Direct deposit of Social Security, veterans, disability and pension benefits also qualify. Distributions from 401(k) plans and individual retirement accounts often qualify, says Scott Lang, senior vice president of association services at NACHA, a Herndon, Va.-based group that promotes electronic payments. One caveat: Some banks are now requiring a minimum deposit amount. It also can pay to consolidate your accounts and loans at one bank. Chase, for instance, eliminates the monthly charge if you maintain a $1,500 minimum daily balance or have $5,000 or more in linked deposits and investments, which include savings accounts and investment accounts. ATM Withdrawals. You not only have to pay up to keep your money in a bank, you're also getting dinged when you want to take your money out. While ATM fees have been rising for years, new regulations have added fuel to the fire, sending fees higher than ever, says Greg McBride, senior financial analyst at Bankrate.com. Withdrawing money from an ATM outside your bank costs you an average $2.33, up more than 18% from the fall of 2008, according to Bankrate.com. Wells Fargo and Bank of America already are charging non-customers $3 to use their ATMs. And your own bank likely is penalizing you for going to another bank. The average surcharge banks impose on customers for using an outside ATM is $1.41, up from $1.32 in the fall of 2009. Limit your need to go to an ATM by getting cash back when using a debit card for purchases. But there's usually a limit on how much you can get back -- typically between $50 and $100, says Nessa Feddis, vice president and senior counsel at the American Bankers Association.

Tips for saving gas Some suggestions from Uncle Sam for reducing your gasoline costs:

Pump prices

Maintain your vehicle Follow

U.S. averag e weekly for re gular unleaded

Use regular gas unless the engine is

the owner’s manual schedule for tune-ups, oil changes, air filter replacements; keep tires properly inflated and aligned knocking or the manufacturer recommends a higher octane; avoid “gas-saving” gadgets, since most offer little to no benefit

Lighten the load An extra 100 lbs.

(45 kg.) in the trunk can reduce fuel efficiency by up to two percent

Drive smart Obey speed limits, avoid

jackrabbit starts and stops; combine errands; consider carpools, public transport

$4.11

3 2 1 0 7/2/07

7/7/08

Another option is to open an online checking account. Online banks, such as State Farm Bank, Ally Bank and Charles Schwab Bank, refund all ATM fees at the end of the month since they typically don't have their own ATMs. If you have an account with a smaller bank or credit union, see if the institution belongs to a third-party network of ATMs, such as Allpoint or MoneyPass. ATM machines in these networks, which can be found in places like WalMart and McDonald's, don't charge you a withdrawal fee (though your bank may charge you one). The (Fill in the Blank) Fee. Some of the most basic banking services are now being recast as extras that come with, you guessed it, a price. Empty your kid's piggy bank to deposit the coins at a Citibank branch in Illinois, and it'll cost Junior 5% of the deposit. (After The Wall Street Journal Sunday inquired about the fee, the bank said it planned to eliminate it.) If you're a Bank of America customer with an e-banking account and make just one deposit a month through a teller, drive-up window or night deposit box, an $8.95 fee will kick in. The fee also comes into play if you want paper statements. And, even if they don't charge for the initial statement, most banks charge $5 each for copies of deposits, checks or past statements. And those PNC Bank customers who have a debit card lost or stolen while on vacation? On top of its standard $7.50 replacement fee, the bank tacks on an extra $25 "expedited card delivery fee" if you want to have the card mailed to somewhere other than home. Overdraft Protection. The biggest hit is the overdraft fee, which the bank charges you for letting a payment go through when you don't have enough funds in your account. It will run you $10 to $36 for every transaction you make while your account is in the red,

according to the Pew study (though most banks limit the number of daily overdraft charges). If your bank charges you, say, $34 on one $100 overdraft that takes you two weeks to pay back, it's equivalent to a loan with a whopping 886% annual percentage rate, according to the Center for Responsible Lending. Instead of signing up for overdraft protection, apply for an overdraft line of credit. You'll pay a much smaller transfer fee, typically $5, each time you overdraw plus 18% interest until the balance is paid back, according to the Center for Responsible Lending. Another option is to link your checking account to a savings account. You'll typically pay $5 to $10 each time you have to dip into the savings account to cover a transaction in your checking account, says Ed Mierzwinski, consumer advocate at the U.S. Public Interest Research Group. Take it a step further and sign up for automatic text-message or email alerts when your checking-account balance drops below a certain amount. Then transfer money online from your savings account to your checking account yourself. That's still free at most banks. But give them time. Speaking of banks- Provident Bank Park will be the home field of the firstyear Rockland Boulders here in Ramapo. They are part of the Canadian American Association for Professional Baseball. Provident Bank has agreed to pay $2.75 million covering the next ten years-for the right to place its name fronting the stadium facade. Ramapo's annual share of $137,500 will go toward paying the debt on the nearly $38 million stadium on 27 acres. "How great it is to have a great community bank involved in a great community project," Ramapo Supervisor Christopher St. Lawrence said Monday.

THE ADVOCATE May 19, 2011

Allergies, a Common Complaint Allergy is characterized by an overreaction of the human immune system to a foreign protein substance (“allergen”) that is eaten, breathed into the lungs, injected or touched. This immune overreaction can results in symptoms such as coughing, sneezing, itchy eyes, runny nose and scratchy throat. In severe cases it can also result in rashes, hives, lower blood pressure, difficulty breathing, asthma attacks, and even death.

more common among children than adults. 90% of all food allergy reactions are cause by 8 foods: milk, soy, eggs, wheat, peanuts, tree nuts, fish and shellfish. For drug allergies, penicillin is the most common allergy trigger.

There are no cures for allergies. Allergies can be managed with proper prevention and treatment. Allergies have a genetic component. If only one parent has allergies of any type, chances are 1 in 3 that each child will have an allergy. If both parents have allergies, it is much more likely (7 in 10) that their children will have allergies.

Insect Allergies – Approximately 4% of allergy sufferers have insect allergies as their primary allergy (bee/wasp stings and venomous ant bites; cockroach and dust mite allergen may also cause nasal or skin allergy symptoms.)

More Americans than ever before say they are suffering from allergies. It is among the country's most common, yet often overlooked, diseases. Prevalence An estimated 50 million Americans suffer from all types of allergies (1 in 5 Americans) including indoor/ outdoor, food & drug, latex, insect, skin and eye allergies. Allergy prevalence overall has been increasing since the early 1980s across all age, gender, and racial groups. Allergy is the 5th leading chronic disease in the U.S. among all ages, and the 3rd most common chronic disease among children under 18 years old. Indoor and Outdoor Allergies – (Allergic rhinitis; seasonal/perennial allergies; hay fever; nasal allergies) Approximately 40 million Americans have indoor/outdoor allergies as their primary allergy. (Many people with allergies usually have more than one type of allergy.) Approximately 10 million people are allergic to cat dander, the most common pet allergy. The most common indoor/outdoor allergy triggers are: tree, grass and weed pollen; mold spores; dust mite and cockroach allergen; and, cat, dog and rodent dander. Skin Allergies – (Atopic dermatitis; eczema; hives; urticaria; contact allergies) Approximately 7% of allergy sufferers have skin allergies as their primary allergy. Plants such as poison ivy, oak and sumac are the most common skin allergy triggers. However, skin contact with cockroach and dust mite allergen, certain foods or latex may also trigger symptoms of skin allergy. Food and Drug Allergies – Approximately 6% of allergy sufferers have food/drug allergies as their primary allergy. Food allergy is

Latex Allergy – Approximately 4% of allergy sufferers have latex allergy as their primary allergy. An estimated 10% of healthcare works suffer from latex allergy.

Eye Allergies – (Allergic conjunctivitis; ocular allergies) – Approximately 4% of allergy sufferers have eye allergies as their primary allergy, often caused by many of the same triggers as indoor/outdoor allergies. Allergies are the most frequently reported chronic condition in children, limiting activities for more than 40% of them. Each year, allergies account for more than 17 million outpatient office visits, primarily in the spring and fall; seasonal allergies account for more than half of all allergy visits. Skin allergies alone account for more than 7 million outpatient visits each year. Food allergies account for 30,000 visits to the emergency room each year.

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Dr. Albetter says;

“Make sure your child is ready for summer pictures.”

Schedule an Appointment with Dr. Ramin Kashani, Pediatric Dentist FOR A SMILE AS BRIGHT AS THE SUMMER SUN

Friday appointments available

Call 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

Dr. Albetter asks;

“SPRING ALLERGIES FORCE YOU TO HIDE BEHIND A MASK?”

Exposure to latex allergen alone is responsible for over 200 cases of anaphylaxis (severe allergic reactions) each year. Nearly 400 Americans die each year due to drug allergies from penicillin. More than 200 deaths occur each year due to food allergies. Each year nearly 100 Americans die due to insect allergies. 10 deaths each year are due to severe reactions to latex allergy. Social and Economic Costs The annual cost of allergies is estimated to be nearly $7 billion. Direct costs accounted for nearly $6 billion ($5.7 billion in medications and $300 million in office visits). For adults, allergies (hay fever) is the 5th leading chronic disease and a major cause of work absenteeism and “presenteeism,” resulting in nearly 4 million missed or lost workdays each year, resulting in a total cost of more than $700 million in total lost productivity.

Dr. Renata Witkowska & Dr. David Menchell CAN HELP YOU. For an immediate appointment with the Department of Allergy and Immunology Call 352-6800 today.

There is not need to hide from the spring air and flowers. 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 May 19, 2011

‫בחוקותי תשע״א‬

‫דער אדוואקאט‬

Dr. Albetter asks;

“Did your child act out in school this year?”

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

Dr. Tzvi 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

Science Matters

How life flows in a plant A new mechanical study shows that plants expand and contract sideways as they pump fluids upward and downward.

Xylem

Hard-walled cells carry water, minerals upward throughout plant

Phloem

Soft-walled cells carry sugars, other nutrients upward and downward within plant

Dead and dry when mature

Thin layer remains soft and moist Rings of dead xylem, phloem cells

Dr. Samuel Wong MD Ophthalmologist

Water, nutrients

Water, minerals from roots

Researchers put electronic sensors on tree stems to detect movement of wood

NIGHT

Water-carrying cells can shrink and swell to change pressure

DAY

Pressure is positive in both xylem and phloem

Water pressure is negative in xylem and positive in phloem

Plant stem expands horizontally

Sides of stem contract inward

Ben Gilman Spring Valley

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

Source: Carlos III University of Madrid Mechanical Engineering Department, Journal of Biological Physics Graphic: Helen Lee McComas

THE ADVOCATE May 19, 2011

Dr. Gerson Gluck ADULT MEDICINE Dr. James Israel Dr. Arthur Landau ADULT MEDICINE: Dr. Grohman Dr.Debra James Israel Dr. Eric Goldman Dr. Arthur Landau PA Dr.Brian DebraBlitz, Grohman Elana Klein, PA Dr. Eric Goldman Brian Blitz, PA

FAMILY MEDICINE Dr. Ryan Banach FAMILY MEDICINE: Dr. Ryan Banach

OB/GYN

Dr.OB/GYN: Joel W. Allen Dr. Debra Kirschner Dr. Joel W. Allen Dr. Karina Zhuravleva Dr. Debra Kirschner Melissa Carco, PA Dr. KarinaA.Zhuravleva Melissa A. Carco, PA

DENTAL

Dr. Genady Benyaminov DENTAL Leonard Kundel Dr.Dr. Genady Benyaminov Dr. Stacey Lubetsky Dr. Leonard Kundel Dr.Stacey RaminLubetsky Kashani Dr. Dr. Jacklyn Tadros Dr. Jacklyn Tadros Dr. Mark Raider Dr. Mark Raider Dr. Sarah Sarah Hanna Hanna Dr.

TODDLERS

SCHEDULE YOUR APPOINTMENT TODAY: Monsey Family Medical Center 40 Robert Pitt Dr. Monsey, NY 10952 (845) 352-6800

CANCER

DEALING WITH TANTRUMS

WHY DO CARCINOGENS CAUSE CANCER?

Department of Pediatric Medicine

Department Departmentof ofAdult AdultMedicine Medicine

Toddler temper tantrum is something very common. Between the ages of one and three, your previously gentle and loving toddler will have a change of personality. He will no longer be content to accept your rules for everything, but will want his own say in what he does and does not do. Quite frequently, this will result in toddler temper tantrum.

Cancer rates are very high in this country. How is it that external factors like tobacco use can have such a heavy hand in our cancer rates? It all comes down to carcinogens -- cancer-causing agents, like pollutants in the air, ultraviolet (UV) rays and viruses. How and why do carcinogens give cancer the upper hand?

When a toddler starts having tantrums, the first thing the parents should do is decide what is important and what isn't important. If you want to have your own way in everything your toddler disagrees with, then you're likely to spend the majority of your time in a battle of wills. The best plan is to make as few rules as possible. Your child will be more likely to adhere to a lower number of rules and he will also know that those rules are important. Letting him get away with eating breakfast cereal with his fingers may be worth the mess if you know that he will definitely hold your hand to cross a road.

Carcinogens are typically any external causes of cancer, excluding those without a hereditary link. However, for the purpose of this article, we're referring to the following categories of carcinogens from the World Health Organization (WHO):

Once you do decide what is important, don't give in. Make sure your rules are constant. Dr. Paul Bloom, Jana Barkin, Hygienist Jana Barkin, Hygienist a pediatrician at Monsey Family Medical Center says consistency is key. “It is very important that parents SPECIALTY SPECIALTY: or caretakers remain consistent in how they treat Dr. Harry Harry Baldinger Baldinger -- Podiatry Podiatry tantrums,” Dr. Bloom points out. "If you make a rule Dr. that no snacks may be eaten an hour before bedDr. Stuart Birnbaum Podiatry Dr. Stuart Birnbaum - Podiatry time, stick by that rule, even if your toddler's cries Dr. David David Schwalb Schwalb -- Urology Urology Dr. are loud enough to annoy the neighbors. Once you DavidWitkowska Menchell- Allergy give in and hand him some nosh, he will expect one Dr.Dr. Renata - Allergy every time he cries." Dr. Bloom concluded. Renata Witkowska - Allergy Dr.Dr. Samuel Wong - Ophthalmology

Dr. Wong - Ophthalmology Dr.Samuel Alfred Hellreich - Dermatology Dr.Dr. Alfred Hellreich - Dermatology Philip Fried - Dermatology Dr. Philip Fried Dermatology Dr. Yoel Kantor - Endocrinology Dr. Yoel Kantor - Endocrinology Hanna Raice - Nutrition Counseling Hanna Raice Nutrition Aaron Muller, SpeechCounseling Therapy Aaron Muller, Speech Therapy Melech Karp, Speech Therapy Melech Karp, Speech Therapy

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FAMILY HEALTH TALK

Sponsored By Monsey Medical & Dental Center 40 Robert Pitt Drive, Monsey, NY 845-352-6800

DEPARTMENT OF PEDIATRIC MEDICINE DEPARTMENT OF Dr. Esther Bekritsky PEDIATRIC MEDICINE: PaulBekritsky Bloom Dr.Dr. Esther Dr. Gluck Dr.Gerson Paul Bloom

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A toddler has a tantrum to try and get what they want. If this usually works, they will continue to have tantrums. If, on the other hand , a tantrum never produces the result they want, they will soon give it up as ineffective. The following are a number of things you can do when your child is in the middle of a tantrum, without having to give in:

•Biological for example, types of bacteria •Chemical - chemicals in tobacco smoke and asbestos •Physical - UV radiation Exposures to these "agents of evil" can cause some changes to cells that lead to cancer. For example, some carcinogens can directly cause genetic mutations that foster abnormal cell growth and tumors. Dr. Arthur Landau, an Internist at Monsey Family Medical Center suggests that one should avoid smoking. “Smoke inhalation and other smoke related foods, such as charred meat from a grill are concerns. Nitrates that are used to preserve are also carcinogenic,” he added. Others don't attack genes directly, but trick cells into cell division overdrive. That excess division then leads to potential genetic mutations down the road. Does this mean that any exposure to a known carcinogen will cause you to develop cancer? The candid answer is, "It depends." For one, our genes are under continual attack by genetic mutations, but our DNA usually does a stellar job of repairing itself. That said, though, that "repairman" skill isn't equal among all of us.

Ignore him. Most tantrum-throwers are trying to attract attention. If you don't give him that attention, he will lose interest and stop the tantrum.

Some of us do a better job of repairing our genes than others, which means that some people are more naturally susceptible to the negative effects of a carcinogen. Furthermore, a carcinogen's link to cancer can depend on:

Send him to bed or to his room. This gives both of you a cooling down period.

•

Leave him. Obviously, don't take your eyes off the child if you do this in public. Distract him. Start to play with a new toy, get your child a drink, go outside for a walk. Do whatever it takes to get your toddler's mind off the problem. Toddler temper tantrum are an inevitable part of a child's development. They can't be completely avoided. But with some back-up options, hopefully the amount of time your child spends in a tantrum will be reduced. Imagine being on the team in charge of figuring out the known carcinogens around us. You wouldn't be

Age and gender

• Potency: Some carcinogens require pretty heavy exposure to be dangerous, while others are linked to cancer with just a brief exposure. • Exposure type: For example, were you exposed to a carcinogen one time or continually over a period of years? If all of these factors have a role in just how much a carcinogen is linked to cancer, you may be wondering how you can determine what to look out for in your daily life. Or maybe you just want to know what known carcinogens even exist and how we find out about their danger. continued on next page...

THE ADVOCATE May 19, 2011 CANCER

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‫דער אדוואקאט‬

County of Rockland FAMILY HEALTH TALK Department of Health

WHY DO CARCINOGENS CAUSE CANCER? continued

Sponsored By Monsey Medical & Dental Center 40 Robert Pitt Drive, Monsey, NY 845-352-6800

able to wrap up your project all neat and tidy, filing it away marked complete. Instead, you would continue to research and refine your list, working on new revisions every couple of years. After all, your research would be linked to potentially preventing cancer, which can be a matter of life and death. In the last government report on carcinogens -- known as the "11th Report on Carcinogens (RoC)" -- 246 substances made it on the list. Of those substances, 58, such as alcoholic beverages, benzene, mustard gas and coal tars, were identified as known human carcinogens, while the other 188 were not as strongly labeled. Instead, they were referred to as "reasonably anticipated" to be substances linked to cancer. So just how does a substance make it on the list? Scientists rely on two different types of studies: lab and epidemiologic. In a laboratory environment, scientists are limited in what they can do, since they can't test on people. Therefore, they have to rely on cell cultures and animal testing. However, even that isn't enough because replicating exposures in people isn't possible, and it's impossible to say that a substance will act the same way in humans as it did in animals. Furthermore, to be able to use small sample groups, scientists must use

doses markedly higher than human exposures when testing on animals. So scientists believe that positive carcinogen tests on animals are reasonable predictors of cancer risk and a justified reason to limit human exposure.

In contrast to laboratory studies, epidemiologic studies, also known as population-based studies, take research outside of the lab. In an epidemiologic study, researchers look at a population of people and target potential causes of cancer. The challenge here is that outside of the lab, scientists lose a controlled environment, meaning it's difficult to determine what someone is exposed to and when. Therefore, scientists aim to use the best of both worlds -- lab and epidemiologic studies -- to determine the carcinogens that are potentially life threatening.

To discuss this and other healthcare issues with our providers Dr. James Israel, Dr. Arthur Landau Dr. Debra Grohman, Dr. Eric Goldman, Dr. Ryan Banach, Family Medicine, Brian Blitz PA, or Elana Klein PA , please call the Medical Center at 845.352.6800

NEWS RELEASE

Be Tobacco Free on May 31st for 'World No Tobacco Day'

The Rockland County Department of Health’s Put It Out Rockland program can help you quit! Pomona, NY – May 31st is World No Tobacco Day, a day to encourage smokers world wide to go 24 hours without tobacco. Need help? The Rockland County Department of Health’s Put It Out Rockland program can help you quit and be tobacco free. “The benefits of quitting start within 20 minutes of putting out your last cigarette and last a lifetime,” said Dr. Joan Facelle, Rockland County Commissioner of Health.

Here are just a few benefits to look forward to: -Fresher and cleaner breath -Whiter teeth -Clean, fresh smelling clothes and hair -Better tasting food -Return to a normal sense of smell -Improved athletic endurance -No more yellowed fingers and fingernails Put It Out Rockland offers free quit smoking programs, and free nicotine replacement products if you are medically eligible. We will help you become tobacco free so you can celebrate World No Tobacco Day as a nonsmoker. We have already helped over 1,500 Rockland residents quit smoking. For more information call 845-364-2651 or visit our website at www.putitoutrockland.com.

Science Matters

Precise new cataract surgery An experimental surgery to replace eye cataracts is performed with a laser, which cuts more precisely than a surgeonÕs hand can.

Cataract: EyeÕs lens becomes

Lens

cloudy as its proteins break down; vision deteriorates

Current technique

1 Surgeon makes curved

freehand cut in front of lens capsule with tiny instruments

Crucial Step 1 depends on surgeonÕs skill, experience

Breaks up lens with ultrasound, suctions out fragments

Implants plastic lens

Light beams can guide and make cuts

Suction

Scanning beam

1 Suction

Laser beam

holds curved lens system to front of eyeball

$200 first hour and $100 each additional hour

Light beam scans front of eye and internal surfaces of lens to guide cut

Lens system

Suction skirt

Lens

Flashes of laser light lasting half a trillionth of a second make precisely controlled cut

THE ADVOCATE May 19, 2011

‫בחוקותי תשע״א‬

‫דער אדוואקאט‬

Behavioral Health

Nightmares & Night Terrors in Children Reviewed by: Naomi Franklin, LMSW

Nightmares are scary dreams. Most children have them from time to time. Most nightmares happen very late in the sleep period (usually between 4 a.m. and 6 a.m.). Your child may wake up and come to you for comfort. Usually, he or she will be able to tell you what happened in the dream and why it was scary. Your child may have trouble going back to sleep. Your child might have the same dream again on other nights. Some children have a different kind of scary dream called a "night terror." Night terrors happen during deep sleep (usually between 1 a.m. and 3 a.m.). A child having a night terror will often wake up screaming. He or she may be sweating and breathing fast. Your child's pupils (the black center of the eye) may look larger than normal. At this point, your child may still be asleep, with open eyes. He or she will be confused and might not answer when you ask what's wrong. Your child may be difficult to wake. When your child wakes, he or she usually won't remember what happened. Children who have night terrors may also sleepwalk. Nightmares and night terrors don't happen as much as children get older. Often, nightmares and night terrors stop completely when your child is a teenager. However, some people, especially people who have active imaginations and are creative, may keep having nightmares and night terrors when they are adults.

and gently and try to get your child back to bed. Do not shout or shake your child.

PROJECT OHR Department of

Tips to Help Your Child Sleep Better • Follow a regular routine before bedtime. Pleasant activities, such as reading, may help your child relax. • Fatigue may contribute to night terrors. Make sure your child gets enough sleep every night. • If your child is stressed or anxious, talk to your child about what is stressing him or her. Together, try to come up with a plan to handle the stress. Night terrors and sleepwalking require that you protect your child during sleep. Be sure your home is safe (use toddler gates on staircases and don't use bunk beds for children who have nightmares or night terrors often). Talk with your doctor or a therapist at Project Ohr Department of Behavioral Health if your child has any of the above issues.

Behavioral Health ADULT PSYCHIATRY Seymour Kushnir, MD Allan Flaggman, MD CHILD PSYCHIATRY Zvi Weisstuch, MD SOCIAL WORK Individual, Couple Child & Family Therapy Malka Susswein, LCSW Gelly Asovski, LCSW Shoshana Weisz, LCSW Gila Zelinger, LCSW Chana Simmonds, LCSW Rabbi Aryeh Frankel, LMSW Sharon Kronenberg, LMSW

When should I worry about nightmares or night terrors?

Naomi Franklin, LMSW

Nightmares and night terrors in children are usually not caused by mental or physical illness. Often nightmares happen after a stressful physical or emotional event. In the first 6 months after the event, a child might have nightmares while he or she gets used to what happened in the event. If nightmares or night terrors keep happening and disturb your child's sleep, they can affect your child's ability to function during the day. Talk with your pediatrician about whether treatment will help your child.

Esther Rothbaum, LMSW

If your child has night terrors, speak to him or her calmly

frustartion quiz;To determine your success at coping with this emotion, ask yourself: • • • • • • •

Am I often frustrated and irritable? Do I typically respond to frustration by blaming others? Do I self-medicate letdowns with junk food, or alcohol? Do my reactions hurt other people's feelings? When the frustration has passed, do I usually feel misunderstood? During a hard day at work, do I tend to lose my cool? When I'm disappointed, do I often feel unworthy or like giving up?

If you answered YES, to even one of these questions, you may want to see a therapist.

Avi Riber, LMSW

Tziporah Spira, LMSW For a confidential consultation call

PROJECT OHR Tel. 845.352.6800 Ext. 6849

THE ADVOCATE May 19, 2011

‫בחוקותי תשע״א‬

‫דער אדוואקאט‬

HEALTH NEWS YOU CAN USE bone doesn’t heal right. Another is that falls are common for seniors. HHS’ Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality says fall-related injuries are responsible for about two million visits a year to hospital emergency departments.

Discretion

AHRQ’s director, Dr. Carolyn Clancy, says seniors can check their medications for food and drug interactions that could lead to falls:

about sugar From the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services People can use discretion about calories from sugar. Nutrition experts say people should watch discretionary calories – those being calories in addition to what you need just for proper nutrition. At the University of Minnesota, researchers looked at survey data on Minneapolis-St. Paul-area residents from 1980 to 2009. They found that, as added sugar consumption increased, weight went up. Added sugars are considered as discretionary, and people can actually avoid them in their diets. For example, drink water instead of sodas. The study presented at an American Heart Association meeting on nutrition and physical activity was supported by the National Institutes of Health.

Millions of falls

From the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Seniors fear falls, and for good reason. One is that falls can break brittle bones, which can lead to hospital stays, rehabilitation, and the sad consequences when

It’s also really smart to have your home checked to ensure you have taken all the steps you can to prevent falls, such as making sure rugs are securely fastened to the floors.’

Easing arthritis pain Medicines can help to ease the pain of arthritis, but there also are things that people with arthritis can do by themselves. At the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Dr. Louise Murphy has been studying arthritis in America. She says one thing people can do, if they’re overweight, is to lose weight. Another thing is to be physically active: ``Doing simple exercises like walking can reduce pain and increase mobility. The benefits of regular exercise can be equal to that of taking pain medication.’’ Murphy says arthritis is common – about 1 in 5 people have been diagnosed with it. She also says arthritis is most common among whites and blacks.

One third of adults and 40 percent of children worldwide are exposed yearly to the deadly toxins in second-hand tobacco smoke.

Europe

78%

Africa

28%

Eastern Mediterranean

38%

Did you know that following a Mediterranean diet (emphasizing fruits, vegetables, olive oil and more fish and seafood rather than red meat) is a smart choice for your mind as well as your body?

• Add healthier fats to your meals such as nuts (almonds and walnuts), avocados and fish. • Buy beans - they’re high in fiber, cost less than meat and are not as perishable. • Grow some fresh herbs this season. Herbs and spices are classified as caloriefree and salt-free and add so many flavors to foods. An oregano plant can season so many dishes – also makes a nice gift to give!

• Alzheimer’s disease

Second-hand Dangers killer

Percentage of 13- to 15-year-olds living with smokers, 2008

Pomona, NY – The Rockland County Department of Health announces that May is Mediterranean Diet Month.

as olive oil, grape seed oil, and canola oil.

Studies have shown that it may lower your risk of:

Health Matters

Children suffer

Following a Mediterranean diet is a smart choice for your mind as well as your body

• mild cognitive impairment (the stage between normal forgetfulness due to aging and the development of dementia. People with mild cognitive impairment have mild problems with thinking and memory that do not interfere with everyday activities. They are often aware of the forgetfulness. Not everyone with mild cognitive impairment develops dementia). • heart disease and some cancers • diabetes The Mediterranean diet typically features plenty of grain products, vegetables, legumes, nuts and fruits, fish, poultry, yogurt, cheese, olive oil and if you drink wine - moderate amounts of wine (up to one 5 ounce glass per day for women, up to two 5 ounce glasses per day for men. The potential benefit of drinking wine has to be weighed against other possible health risks for each individual – check with your doctor). Take steps towards following a Mediterranean diet and make some easy changes:

• Choose antioxidant “all stars” such as blueberries, walnuts, cherries, tomatoes, spinach and broccoli. • Fruit for all courses! Fruit can be served as an appetizer on a cheese platter, mangos on a green salad, grilled pineapple rings give chicken that tropical flair and grilled peach halves with frozen yogurt are delicious for dessert! • Use yogurt in place of sour cream in baking or a dip. “The Mediterranean diet also emphasizes a healthy lifestyle, such as getting plenty of exercise and enjoying meals with family and friends,” said Dr. Joan Facelle, Rockland County Commissioner of Health.

• Use healthier fats when cooking, such

Exposure affects everyone

Known diseases caused by second-hand smoke among:

Female child

Male child

Adult male

• Nasal • Middle • Middle irritation ear ear disease disease • Lung cancer • Upper • Upper respiratory respiratory • Heart impairment impairment disease • Sudden • Sudden Infant Death Infant Death Syndrome Syndrome (SIDS) (SIDS) • Lower • Lower respiratory respiratory illness illness

Adult female

Monsey Family Medical Center

• Nasal irritation • Lung cancer • Heart disease • Lower birth weights for babies

41% The Americas

Second-hand toxins Southeast Asia

34%

Of the 4,000 chemicals in tobacco smoke, 50 are known carcinogens, including:

51% Western Pacific

Source: World Health Organization Graphic: Lee Hulteng

Nicotine

Methanol

Tolulene

(Insecticide)

(Rocket fuel)

(Solvent)

Aresenic

Methane

Butane

(Poison)

(Sewer gas)

Carbon monoxide

Cadmium

(Exhaust gas)

(Toxic metal used in batteries)

(Lighter fluid)

DR. Albetter says,

' Monsey Family Medical Center

THE ADVOCATE May 19, 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

To reduce airborne dust, regularly vacuum registers and radiators. Change the filters in your air conditioners and furnace, following the manufacturer's instructions. If you have severe allergies, hire a professional yearly to clean heating and ventilation ducts to reduce dust and molds.

‫בחוקותי תשע״א‬

‫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

HOW TO CHECK FOR ROOF DAMAGE To keep your roof in tip top shape you should examine it often. A roof is the most important part of your home. Without it you might as well live outside, so let's inspect our roof. It is not as hard as you may think. There are two ways you can inspect your roof. You can inspect your roof from the ground, if you can see most of it with a pair of binoculars that way you do not have to climb onto the roof. But, the best way is to climb onto the roof for a real roof checkup. Believe it or not the sun does m o r e damage to a roof then the rain and the wind together. What we are looking for are shingles that are balding, cracked, blistered, torn, curling, missing or just simply lost their luster. If you have any of these conditions prepare yourself for a roof repair or a new roof. First, check out the ridge shingles ("these are the ones on the very peak of your roof"). On most roofs these are what fails first. A leak in this area could show up anywhere in the house. Look for missing, cracked, curling or any type of wind damage. Second, look at the valleys on your roof and make sure they are in good shape and sound. If you have flashing in your valley check it out carefully for this is another place you may find leaks. Third, check all of the flashing around your

chimney, furnace stack, drain waste vent and any other protrusions you may have on your roof. Make sure they are tightly sealed without rust and cracks or just plain coming loose. Fourth, look for any loose, curled up or missing shingle. If any of these conditions exist your should have the roof repaired. If left unattended they will let moisture in and ruin the roof sheathing beneath it and possibly let moisture seep into the ceilings or walls in your home. This can get expensive besides the inconvenience of the time to repair. This can also set the stage for mold to grow so do a good inspection. Fifth, while doing your roof checkup take a look at your gutters and down spouts to make sure they are tight against the house and not loose or pulling away. Make sure they are clean from all debris as this could cause a backup underneath the shingles and of course damage your home. Last step, look in your gutters to see how much of the coating of the shingle is laying in the gutter, (" the fine sand like granules on the shingle itself "). If there is a lot you can expect roof problems soon. Roof inspections should be done at least every spring and fall. You should clean out your gutters as often as you can because they can be easily forgotten about and they are the central point of water removal except for the roof itself. Keep those gutters clean during winter to help stop ice jams from forming.

RCDC is pleased to announce the appointment of Mr. Abraham Stauber, as new Program Coordinator for the RCDC Employment/Parnassah Project. As a SCORE volunteer since 2004, Mr. Stauber has recognized the needs and unique requirements of the community’s entrepeneurs. Mr. Stauber is a professional Business Counselor, specializing in helping small businesses and those looking to work. Every week the Advocate will bring the public listings of job openings, in addition we will help employers find suitable candidates to fill job openings. It is our hope that this parnasah service will benefit the community.

Please call Abraham Stauber: 646-235-4547 Or e-mail: jobs@advocateNews.org for more information on the RCDC Employment/Parnasah Project or if you have any job leads. SPRING TIPS • Replace your furnace filter • Clean the kitchen exhaust hood and air filter • Check your electrical system • Always have a multi-purpose fire extinguisher accessible. • Make sure the light bulbs in all your fixtures are the correct wattage • Review your fire escape plan with your family • Consider installing a lightning protection system on your home • Protect all your electrical appliances from power surges and lightning • Have a professional air conditioning contractor inspect and maintain your system as recommended by the manufacturer • Check for damage to your roof • Run through a severe-weather drill with your family • Repair all cracked, broken or uneven driveways and walks to help provide a level walking surface • Protect your home from sewer or drain back-up losses • Check all the fascia and trim for deterioration • Check your water heater • Check the shutoff valve at each plumbing fixture to make sure they function • Clean clothes dryer exhaust duct, damper, and space under the dryer • Replace all extension cords that have become brittle, worn or damaged

THE ADVOCATE May 19, 2011

‫בחוקותי תשע״א‬

CLASSIFIEDS

To place a classified ad please call 845.770.1950 • or E-mail SALES POSITION

347-76-CHAIR

Heimishe chair company is looking for an experienced sales rep. 100k+ annually. fax resume 888-737-0911

PROFESSIONAL

REUPHOLSTERY VINYLS, TAPESTRY FABRIC, PLASTIC,AND SLIP COVERS.

FOR SALE 2 plaid sofas, 2 white formica end tables 1 TV/audio wall unit 1 Glass and gold colored metal wall unit Call for info: 845-634-8787 or 845-323-9387

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

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

CONDOS FOR RENT-SALE MONSEY BLUEBERRY HILL 1 BR FROM 139K - 2 BR FROM 239K PREFERRED PROPERTIES

845.352.4440 FURNITURE 4 SALE Good Wood has quality pre-owned furniture at great prices

At a fraction of the original price! 40 Robert Pitt Dr. (near the Monsey Medical Center) (845) 270-4402 Sundays 12-4 Monday-Thursday 12:30-2:30

Or by appointment

CONDOS FOR RENT-SALE MONSEY BLUEBERRY HILL APARTMENTS FOR RENT 1 Bedroom from $1,140 2 Bedrooms from $1,630 3 Bedrooms from $2,025 NOT TO BE COMBINED WITH ANY OTHER OFFER CALL BLUEBERRY HILL

845.352.4440

Sales@advocateNews.org

Herb and Flower This summer make your home or yard a little bit more special with some herbs.-tasty, fragrant, and cheap. will design and/or plant it for you call Aaron 914-419-6717 and start growing today!

Bruchy Mayers Small Childbirth Class will leave you feeling confident and ready for birth. Private Classes are available Call now and join our class!

(917) 776 – 8542

HOUSE FOR SALE-FORSHAY

Gardens

CHILDBIRTH CLASSES

Commercial Industrial • Residential

‫דער אדוואקאט‬

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

Kagan Realty

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

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

Kagan Realty

YESHIVA JOB OPENINGS

LOOKING FOR HOMEOWNER WITH INDOOR POOL...

Due to our yeshiva’s growth, YBH of Passaic is excited to be opening parallel classes for the 2011-2012 school year. We are seeking the following exp Grade 1 & 2 teachers: Rebbi in Boy’s Div. Excellent, on time pay. Pls email bleiner@ ybhillel.org. Morahs in Girl’s Div. Excellent, on time pay. Pls email bleiner@ ybhillel.org. Gen Stud Teachers: Hrs. 12:15 PM – 4:15 PM.

...who is willing to have a senior citizen woman come with chaperone to do water therapy in the pool once or twice a week. Please call Rachel at RCDC 845-352-1400 if you are in a position to provide this Chessed.

Fax: cov let, res, certs & refs to: (973) 777-9477 or email to: gpersin@ybhillel.org

SENIOR GROUP RCDC WOMEN’S SENIOR GROUP PROGRAM 12:30 - 3:00PM MONDAY & WED. FREE TRANSPORTATION AVAILABLE FOR INFORMATION PLEASE CALL 845.352.1400 x 3245 A PROJECT OF OFA OF ROCKLAND COUNTY

TAXI AVAILABLE Cheapest In Town Mini Vans Available Pay after Shabbos or Yom Tov 24 hour service Local or Long Distance

425-4411 LA FAMILIA TAXI

Allterations and Mending Heimishe Seamstress Calvert Area

845-426-0112

STAR 1 TRANSPORTATION - CAR SERVICE STAR 1 TRANSPORTATION CAR SERVICE & AIRPORT SHUTTLE

Local and Long Distance Service 15 Passenger Van, Minivan, Town Car $7 Monsey to 222 Rt. 59, Suffern - $9 Monsey to Good Sam Hospital $11 Monsey to Palisades Mall - $14Monsey to Nyack Hospital $5 Monsey to College Road

Pay after Shabbos or Yom Tov 845-356-2602

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