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Vol. 27 No. 46 • Rockland’s Independent Jewish Community Newspaper Since 1985 • 8 Kislev

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November 22, 2012 free weekly

Gillibrand brings Kosher Food Legislation to Congress A Moeller

Is it time for your child see a dentist? SEE PAGE

Gillibrand-Crowley Legislation Requires USDA to Target, Label, and Increase Kosher Meals to Meet Growing Demand

‫כ‬ ‫ש‬

‫ר‬

Hamas- Israel Cease-fire Obama Commends Netanyahu Egypt announced on Wednesday that a ceasefire had been reached to end the conflict between Israel and the Palestinians, starting later in the day. Egyptian Foreign Minister Mohamed Kamel Amr made the announcement in a joint news

conference with U.S. Secretary of State Hillary Clinton. The ceasefire would come into effect at 1900 GMT, Amr said. “These efforts ... have resulted in understandings to cease fire and restore calm and halt the bloodshed that the last period

cont. Page 7

Legislator Ilan Schoenberger Defends Israel On Monday Rockland County Legislator Ilan Schoenberger announced he will introduce a resolution at an upcoming meeting of the County Legislature in support of the right of Israel to defend itself against attacks by Hamas and Palestinian militant groups.

‫ויצא‬

The resolution states that Hamas has launched more than 12,000 rockets and mortars against Israeli population centers since 2001, and has

U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand and Congressman Joe Crowley announced new legislation they introduced in both chambers of Congress to ensure that kosher food pantries receive adequate supply of food for hungry families as part of the Emergency Food Assistance Program (TEFAP). With an estimated 244,000 Jewish households in New York City living in poverty, the lawmakers’ legislation requires the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) to target, label, and track distribution of kosher food to make certain that more meals are directed toward kosher food banks that

need it the most. “With food insecurity in New York reaching disturbing, historic highs and food banks facing extreme shortages of kosher meals, many families are at risk of hunger and malnutrition,” said Senator Gillibrand. “We must take steps to help the neediest observant families and children get access to nutritious food during these difficult times.”

Fall back

“In these tough times, especially in the wake of Hurricane Sandy, too many New York families are struggling to get by,” said Congressman Crowley. “New York’s cont. Page 7 food banks

by Monseysaving Family time Medical Daylight endsCenter people with pre-existing conditions at 2 a.m. Sunday.

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Remember set yourCare clocks “The to Affordable Act is building a health insurance back one hour before going tofor market that works consumers,” said Health and Human Services Secretary bed Saturday Kathleen Sebelius. “Thanks to

Obama administration moves forward to implement health care law, ban discrimination against people with preexisting conditions

The Obama administration the health care law, no one will moved forward Tuesday to cont. Page 8, health news section implement provisions in ?‫איר פילט נישט גוט‬ the health care law that !‫ווארט נישט ביז זןנטאג‬ would make it illegal for MONSEY FAMILY MEDICAL CENTER insurance companies IS OPEN to discriminate against SATURDAY NIGHT people with preexisting conditions. The provisions of the Affordable Care Act also would make it easier for consumers For Primary Care & Dental to compare health plans and employers to Appointments & Walk-ins Welcome promote and encourage employee wellness.

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THE ADVOCATE November 22, 2012

as we go to press WHO CONTROLS THE SENATE

Deciding who has enough votes to control New York's state Senate could be two weeks away until absentee ballots are counted in some races, and it could be weeks after that before senators select a leader. In the Assembly, Democrats easily continued their supermajority. With most precincts reporting in unofficial results, it appeared two Republican Senate seats would switch to Democrats leaving the chamber tied 31-31, but that's subject to counting thousands of absentee ballots that could erode razor-thin winning margins. A new seat created by the Republican majority to help seal its control was too close to call Tuesday night. Democrats had sought to win the majority promising a progressive agenda that included raising the minimum wage. Republicans sought to hold the majority on a platform of jobs and fiscal control. A Senate majority leader will be chosen by the next class of sitting senators. But that decision is complicated by the four-member Independent

Democratic Conference that broke away from the Democratic minority and has often sided with Republicans over the last two years. In addition, conservative Democrat Simcha Felder was leading Republican David Storobin in the 17th district in Brooklyn, and Felder said he might sit and vote with the Republicans if elected.

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Publisher's Desk A Weekly Editorial By:

Mendel Hoffman

t is a difficult time for residents of New York. Monsey had its fair share of damage, but nothing as bad as New York City neighborhoods. Places like Sea Gate and Far Rockaway got hit especially hard. Hurricane Sandy ripped through many homes and shuls in the Rockaway-Brooklyn area, but one thing prevails; Chesed. We see numerous accounts of elected officials, EMTs and others volunteering their time and money to help those affected by the brutal hurricane. In addition we must commend U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand and Congressman Joe Crowley who announced new legislation that they have introduced in both chambers of Congress to ensure that kosher food pantries receive adequate supply of food for hungry families. This is part of the Emergency Food Assistance Program. It is a pleasure to see how our elected officials are looking out for the community. Hopefully we will see this type of chesed continue within our community under better circumstances.

letters to the editor Dear Action Desk,

Dear Action Desk,

laming the president for rising gas prices is nothing new, and it’s a bipartisan tactic. In 2004, Sen. John Kerry blamed President George W. Bush for higher gas prices and for continuing to fill the Strategic Petroleum Reserve as oil prices climbed. Just one problem: Even if domestic supplies were developed, American presidents couldn’t really control oil prices. The U.S. government has estimated that there are 18 billion barrels of oil in the outer continental shelf of the lower 48 states that are off limits to development. Even if the estimated 10 billion barrels of oil in the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge were available for development, today’s policy decisions would have no impact on gasoline supplies for as much as a decade. Obama can’t dictate what you’ll pay for premium tomorrow. Informed Tax payer, Spring Valley, NY

t is very nice that there is new paint on the roads in Ramapo. But where are the police enforcing these new rules. We need more presence of the police force around this town. It is too dangerous to drive here. Concerned Monsey Resident Dear Editor, I am a school bus driver for a local transportation company which transports our precious children to and from school every day. I repeatedly see careless drivers pass school busses with their RED lights flashing and the STOP signs out and also flashing. This is a very dangerous thing. Children are taught not to cross the street until the red lights are on, and they are relying on the driver, that he

has already made sure it is safe to cross. This morning, I was doing my driving route on Suzanne Dr and Lenore Ave in Monsey. My lights were on and boruch Hashem, the child had already crossed the street, when a driver just passed me by while looking down at his cell phone. A few seconds earlier and it would have been terrible. I had the time to take his plate number and reported it to Ramapo police. The police came to meet me and took my information but told me that they cannot issue a summons unless an officer actually sees the offence. I feel that this law is totally ridiculous!. The law should be changed that a bus driver should be able to give testimony and the offender be prosecuted as if he were a police officer. Lets hope people wake up and keep their eyes on the road in the future. Ron Goldblatt Monsey

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• 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.

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help

Pollard & Rubashkin.

contact the White House between 9am-5pm phone @ 202-456-1414 or fax @ 202-456-2461 every call makes a difference WRITE TO US The Advocate welcomes Letters to the Editor & the Action Desk about relevant topics and issues. Letters must include the writer’s name, address and phone number, although the name may be withheld from publication at the writer’s request. The Advocate reserves the right to edit for clarity and good taste. To voice your opinion, call: 845-770-1950, Fax: 845-770-1983, or e-mail Editor@AdvocateNews.org

THE ADVOCATE November 22, 2012

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the Advocate Action Desk Washington E-Mail

PHONE 50 845-770-19

News.org

Advocate A

ction Desk

cate action@Advo

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cateN illibrand action@Advo Kirsten G HONE le P b k ra es o D n o n The H o 50 Advocate Actio ue 845-770-19 w M. Cuom re Third Aven d 0 n 8 7 A le b albany tate The Honora Suite 2601 ew York S g rk 10017 N o f Y o w r e o N , rn Gove Buildin New York te Capitol ta S S Y N , d n 12224 tor Gillibra Albany, NY Dear Sena d e c u d o tr aderproposal in an Joe e for the le e of m d gressional ss n tu o ti re g C ra n g o e C h h it d T tim by you an e Emergency Food We write w e shown during this As a last week th v t to a y. n s h e d n u m rd a a d o S g n y re me ship Hurricane latives and Crowley in ct, and the likely a m o r fr ie rl rockland g a n E ri e A re t. recov as many Assistance ding accomplishmen governnity who h d New York area, we l n u u ra m o e d st m a fe o c n e a th is ed State e affecte you push rk City food banks, friends in th d to know New York wellthis year, o f Y o w s e e g N a e ort elp are comfort with the safety and ind. ment to h are experiencing sh nutrition h m d er ic n h a w ls a y e n a m has a lead e state’s residents in E-Mail vide m ing ro k p a m to , y d b g o s th or cateNews. kosher fo seniors and familie d being of all action@Advo kosher foo ant rv m tically u se PHONE b k im o x es a D to m n to energe ew u 50 Advocate Actio eive the o c y re y e e g N 845-770-19 th ra sure We encou blish the leadership in pport bama O t. n k e c ra tm a o u B ta ll a of AgPresident work to es ill wholeheartedly s hope House e Secretary more f th w f o t n The White lvania Avenue, NW e te York that tate be the beacon o nder quirem istribu d re d e sy n h n a T n e S P se a . y U ha niz 1600 New York ure to purc mergency food orga ill r democrac n some DC 20510 lt u , u o n c f to ri o g in re sh w e tu Wa ds to arities for the fu hip the State has see d rekosher foo n’s agencies and ch n rs re d t: l. n il a e h e d c your leade profound reforms a forth resi tions, great d a e y th it n u t ss t Dear Mr. P s u m re o g m tra of the m tion that you have p help the co your efforts in Con d from ur Adminis at o y d n a se la a u re is mo fortu purch t leg in anks to nities th n end yo s , h u e d y m c T o m m m , fo m o o n o c n r o c e o ti e f c a o W kosh rtific our e ur support ical Storm amount of rs with a kosher ce es such is helping tion for yo d as a result of Trop ore than m re ti tu g c . in s fa y e m re manu nate tim ailable in tr st enhave suffe h took the lives of nd busibecome av e New York area ju a l ic il s h e w w m , o y h d d n ye Sa ster th cans, destro d devastatitor as the disa urricane Sandy. in 100 Ameri led infrastructure an tes. ReH n Desk Ed h o it have done ti w c u o d A y p ta re s p S u te rt ri d a d c o c e e Unit Advo nesses, nity up to iate the eff path; our Coast of th We apprec Kosher-food commu stocked ed the East not be a decade-long today. d e n g n helping th general population a on this building ca must begin rebuildin e ll s ie it par with th unate situations ca n commu rt to fo u n o u y when rking with ard to wo sinesses recover t. rw fo k o lo u amendmen We and b on ti s a ie il rm m fo fa in Editor help our ady to provide any tion Desk c A te a re c o d n v Ad quest. and sta edite our re to help exp ditor on Desk E ti c A te a c o Adv

editorial cartoon

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HEAP AVAILABLE TO Rockland RESIDENTS through rcdc see page 12 for details

THE ADVOCATE November 22, 2012

!‫ווארט נישט ביז זןנטאג‬

‫תשע״ג‬ Schoenberger

?‫איר פילט נישט גוט‬

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launched more than 6,000 such rockets and mortars since Israel withdrew its civilian population and its military from Gaza in 2005. Since the beginning of the latest increase in rocket attacks on November 14, 2012, Hamas has launched over 1,100 rockets aimed at Israeli towns and cities, killing three civilians, wounding scores, and causing significant damage to buildings and property. “Hamas has increased the range and payload of its rockets, reportedly with support from Iran and others, putting

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(MCT) Nov. 20--As the Long Island Power Authority faces what will surely be the most expensive restoration effort in its history -with cost estimates approaching $800 million -- its measures for scrutinizing tens of thousands of invoices will be tested to the extreme. LIPA says it is ready. It has beefed up its auditing staff, including the hiring of a director of internal audit, to scrutinize the expenses. "The board is going to mandate that the staff scrutinize every penny before writing a check for anything to make sure the costs are appropriate," LIPA chairman Howard Steinberg said. "We are going to perform an audit. We are going to scrutinize every penny." Steinberg called the $800 million estimate to fix Long Island's electrical system a "very preliminary soft estimate," and LIPA expects federal funds to cover 90 percent to 100 percent of those costs, which will protect the authority's ratepayers. Newsday first reported the $800 million figure Thursday. Two years ago, after Hurricane Earl dealt Long Island a glancing blow, allegations surfaced that storm expenses were inflated, misclassified or unrelated to the work at hand. Tree-cutting and environmental cleanups completed days before the storm wound up on the invoices for Earl, Newsday reported at the time. LIPA trustees, including noted Long Island auditor Lawrence Waldman, skewered LIPA in Earl's aftermath, and demanded the fixes that are now in place. After Earl, National Grid, which manages the electric grid for LIPA and pays hundreds of subcontractors who work during storms, said in an audit that $1.1 million had to be credited back to LIPA, including hundreds of thousands of dollars for work done outside the storm but billed to the storm account. In the aftermath of Sandy, critics wonder if the sheer size of the job -- and the $800

million price tag -- will make a high level of scrutiny a nearly impossible job for an authority of 100 people, including a newly installed director of internal audit, William Melville. He is working with outside auditors to help in the effort, said LIPA chief financial officer Michael Taunton.

from page 1

hundreds of thousands of Israelis in major population centers in central Israel, such as Jerusalem and Tel Aviv, in danger of rocket attacks from Gaza,” said Legislator Schoenberger. “This resolution calls upon our State and Federal officials to condemn Hamas and others for their violent actions against Israel and to reaffirm Israel’s right to exist. The burden of responsibility for this continued warfare rests with Hamas. Israel has every right to defend itself against the prolonged terroristic actions of Hamas and other militant groups.”

Darchei Noam Yeshiva works with Chesed organizations after hurricane sandy

845-352-6800

LIPA faces flood of invoices for Sandy expenses

‫דער אדוואקאט ויצא‬

hile many Monsey residents have been struggling with lengthy power outages, most consider themselves grateful to have survived last month's hurricane with relatively minor consequences. At one Monsey yeshiva, talmidim came through yesterday for those who fared less well during the mega-storm, with a donation drive that exceeded organizers’ expectations.

“One boy asked his father for a $100 advance on his Bar Mitzvah money and donated the entire amount,” said Rabbi Horowitz. “It was amazing to see how personally involved the children were, some bringing in toys that they had never even used yet. It wasn’t about how much the boys donated, it was about making each of them feel that they themselves had done something to help.”

“We raised approximately $5,000 in cash and probably double that amount

The spirit of human kindness extended to local merchants, as Darchei Noam students recruited donations

in new clothing and household goods in just over twenty four hours,” Rabbi Yakov Horowitz, dean of Yeshiva Darchei Noam in Monsey told VIN News. “I told the boys that I want each of them to bring in something, even if it is only a dime or a quarter, so that when I go to deliver the money, I will be a shaliach for each and every one of them.”

from area stores, netting $1000 worth of toys from Toys 4 U, approximately $2,000 worth of girls clothing from Ruthie’s Unique Boutique, hundreds of blankets, leggings, socks and other warm weather essentials from Amazing Savings and 350 cases of paper goods from King Zak Industries.

With major storms like Sandy, National Grid is permitted to open a special account to bill LIPA separately from its existing fixed budget to manage the electric grid. Former KeySpan and National Grid managers say there are financial incentives to shift expenses to the storm budget to help cut the company's fixed costs with LIPA. Two former KeySpan/National Grid managers said reducing the operating budget can mean bigger bonuses for National Grid managers and directors, they said. Both declined to be identified. "Every dime associated with a storm is removed from the operating budget," said Peter Schlussler, a former manager for National Grid predecessor KeySpan, and now a member of the Suffolk Legislature's LIPA Oversight Committee. "The more you minimize your operating costs, the greater your bonus is going to be." All National Grid managers, he explained, have an operational budget that they maintain. "If you reduce it by X percent, your bonus would be calculated by how much you reduce operating overhead," he said. "It's allowing management to take advantage of a system that benefits them more on a personal level." After a request by Sen. Charles Schumer (D-N.Y.) to investigate LIPA storm costs, FEMA had been conducting physical inspections of all LIPA repairs following last year's Tropical Storm Irene to document and verify expenses, an exercise that has delayed reimbursements to LIPA. Last week, FEMA expedited payments.

Rabbi Horowitz reported that all 270 talmidim in the yeshiva responded to the drive, some in a very big way.

Proceeds of the drive will be donated to Chesed organizations serving the communities hardest hit by the storm. (-from VIN)

THE ADVOCATE November 22, 2012

r 31, 2012

Decembe

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THE ADVOCATE November 22, 2012

‫תשע״ג‬

‫דער אדוואקאט ויצא‬

national & international news updates White House, Clinton Strongly Condemn Israeli Bus Bombing, Calling It A Terrorist Attack Cairo - The White House on Wednesday condemned a deadly bus bombing in Tel Aviv and said it would help Israel catch those responsible. At least 23 people were wounded when a bus was blown up on a main street in Tel Aviv after days of military exchanges between Israel and the Palestinians in Gaza. Israel's government called it a terrorist attack. "The United States will stand with our Israeli allies, and provide whatever assistance is necessary to identify and bring to justice the perpetrators of this attack," White House press secretary Jay Carney said in a statement.

range missiles on their own without needing direct shipments, said a report Wednesday that quoted the head of Iran’s powerful Revolutionary Guard.

Nov. 10 Border clash wounds four Israeli soldiers; Gaza militants and Israel exchange rocket and shell fire

20 km

Nov. 11-12 Sporadic fire from Gaza into southern Israel wounds eight people; shelling and air raids by Israeli forces kill seven Palestinians, including four civilians

“Gaza is under siege, so we cannot help them. The Fajr-5 missiles have not been shipped from Iran. Its technology has been transferred and (the missiles are) being produced quickly,” Jafari was quoted as saying by the semiofficial ISNA news agency.

Gaza Nov. 14 Israeli missile strike kills Strip HamasÕ military commander and air raids and artillery barrages are EGYPT directed across Gaza, as Palestinean officials pledge to end rocket attacks against Israel; Hamas and other groups fire at least four rockets at the southern city of Beersheba

The United States continues to have an "unshakeable commitment" to Israel's security, Carney said. Secretary of State Hillary Clinton is in the region trying to broker an end to the hostilities. Clinton said the U.S. "strongly condemns" the bombing, which she called a "terrorist attack."

Israel charges that Iran sends weapons, including rockets, to Gaza through a network of smuggling tunnels under the 15-kilometer (9-mile) border between Gaza and Egypt.

Iran Admits Missile Technology Sent To Gaza

Iran also backs the anti-Israel faction Hezbollah in Lebanon, which fired thousands of rockets into Israel during a monthlong 2006 war.

Nov. 13 Israel and Hamas send message via Egypt indicating interest in a truce

Med. Sea

West Bank

Tel Aviv

Jerusalem

Gaza City

Dead Sea

Beersheba

ISRAEL

JORDAN

Nov. 15 Two rockets fired at Tel Aviv in the first attack on IsraelÕs commercial capital in two decades; rocket kills three Israelis north of the Gaza Strip; Israeli warplanes bomb targets in and around Gaza City, raising the Palestinian death toll to 16

Nov. 16 Dozens of rockets are fired into Israel, some targeting Tel Aviv and Jerusalem; officially in Gaza say 22 Palestinians have died in air attacks; Israel announces the call-up of reserves

Nov. 17 Israeli aircraft bomb Hamas government building in Gaza Nov. 18 Israeli aerial and naval attacks hit militant targets in Gaza; in the latest cycle of violence, more than 500 rockets have been fired into Israel

Nov. 19 Israel bombs dozens of targets in Gaza, saying that while it is prepared to send in troops, it prefers a diplomatic solution; militants fire 135 rockets at southern Israel, causing no casualties; since last week, 107 Palestinians, more than half civilians and three Israelis have been killed © 2012 MCT Source: Reuters, Tribune Newspapers reporting

Gas Price Returns to Pre-Sandy Levels

20 miles

The comments by Gen. Mohammad Ali Jafari offer some of the clearest insights on Iran’s weapons support for Hamas, whose Iranian-engineered Fajr-5 missiles have struck near Tel Aviv and Jerusalem during weeklong battles with Israel.

Iran has repeatedly denied it directly supplied Hamas with the Fajr-5. The ISNA report gave no further details on the level of missile know-how sent to Gaza or the channels used.

Iran has supplied Hamas in Gaza with the technology to “quickly” produce longer-

Israel-Gaza conflict

Graphic: Chicago Tribune

Albany & washington news briefs

Average retail gasoline prices in New York have fallen 5.9 cents per gallon in the past week, averaging $3.91/g yesterday. This compares with the national average that has fallen 3.2 cents per gallon in the last week to $3.43/g, according to gasoline price website NewYorkStateGasPrices. com. Including the change in gas prices in New York during the past week, prices yesterday were 29.2 cents per gallon higher than the same day one year ago and are 9.5 cents per gallon lower than a month ago. The national average has decreased 26.4 cents per gallon during the last month and stands 6.5 cents per gallon higher than this day one year ago. While gasoline prices have dropped in the last month and a half, the national average will still come close to breaking a recordthe highest ever national average for this time," said GasBuddy.com Senior Petroleum Analyst Patrick DeHaan. "I don't really see how gas prices could greatly improve between now and the New Year, given the new military action in the Middle East, and other pressures. It's all but certain the national average will not drop under $3.25 per gallon, which could lead to a perilous start to 2013," DeHaan said.

Cuomo bring Bio-Tech to NY

Gov. Andrew Cuomo announced last week the largest biopharmaceutical company in the state will expand its facilities in the Capital Region and create 300 highpaying biotech jobs, according to a press release from the governor's office. Regeneron Pharmaceuticals, Inc., a company focused on the treatment of serious medical conditions, will invest nearly $70 million to expand its two locations in Rensselaer County, with the help of $6.7 million from Empire State Development. "The addition of 300 new, highly skilled and highly paid employees will result in a major boost to the Capital Region economy," said Cuomo in the statement. "We must continue to leverage our regional assets and strong partnerships to invest in and grow a 21st century economy that will make New York more competitive nationally and around the globe." Local officials also lauded the decision.

Vice President Joe Biden visited New Jersey Vice President Joe Biden visited New Jersey on Sunday to see the devastation from Superstorm Sandy, and reassured victims that coming from a neighboring state he would stay on top of the devastation.

"So as the president said when he was up here with the governor, we’re not going anywhere. We’re not going anywhere. And you’ve got a homeboy in the deal who gets it," said Biden in Seaside Heights, N.J., according to White House pool reports. Before that, he reflected on his Delawarean roots. "If you’re not an Easterner it’s hard to understand that the ocean to us is the Grand Canyon, Yellowstone Park and everything else combined," he said. "It is a gigantic part of not only our economy but who we are. It’s a gigantic part of the culture as well." "And every time the rest of the country is in real trouble, New Jersey and Delaware and New York and Connecticut etc., we respond, we respond. And it’s going to be a heavy lift," he continued. "These are difficult times in terms of budgets, but the president has made it clear that we are going to do everything we can to make sure that the Corps is fully funded, that FEMA has their needs and that all the programs that exist under the auspices of the federal government not only continue to exist but are funded so that we can make sure that this area of the country is fully, fully, fully restored."

Felder to Caucus with Senate Republicans

Senator-elect Simcha Felder, a conservative Brooklyn Democrat who has been keeping people guessing about his political loyalties since he announced his campaign for the new “Super Jewish” seat back in April, has finally chosen a side. After meeting with Senate Majority Leader Dean Skelos, Felder has decided to turn his back on his fellow Democrats and caucus with the Republicans next year.

Green voters claim victory in 3 priority Sen. districts The New York League of Conservation Voters, which works to make environmental sustainability a top political and policy priority in New York, saw all three of its priority candidates elected to the state Senate in the recent statewide elections. NYLCV PAC -- the New York League of Conservation Voters' political action committee -- spent more than $300,000 on its 2012 election effort, which they say mobilized voters throughout the state to support pro-environment candidates. NYLCV PAC is the only state political action committee specifically dedicated to electing pro-environment candidates in New York.

THE ADVOCATE November 22, 2012

rockland & regional New York City Will Demolish Hundreds of Storm-Hit Homes New York City is moving to demolish hundreds of homes in the neighborhoods hit hardest by Hurricane Sandy, after a grim assessment of the storm-ravaged coast revealed that many structures were so damaged they pose a danger to public safety and other buildings nearby. About 200 homes will be bulldozed in the coming weeks and months, almost all of them one- and two-family houses on Staten Island, in Queens and Brooklyn. That is in addition to 200 houses that are already

partially or completely burned down, washed away or otherwise damaged; those sites will also be cleared. The Buildings Department is still inspecting nearly 500 other damaged structures, some of which could also be razed, according to the commissioner, Robert L. LiMandri. No decisions have been made about rebuilding in the storm-battered areas — a complicated question that would involve not only homeowners, but also insurers and officials in the state, local and federal governments. Some of the houses that are being torn down were built more than a halfcentury ago as summer bungalows, then winterized and expanded. Current building codes would likely prohibit reconstruction of similar homes. The Buildings Department expects to have a more precise assessment by early this week of how many buildings must be razed. The damaged houses — in neighborhoods like Breezy Point, Belle Harbor and Rockaway Beach in Queens, South Beach, Midland Beach and Fox Beach on Staten Island and Gerritsen Beach in Brooklyn — all have two things in common: they were older homes, and they were close to the water.

24-Year-old Man Arrested After Harassing, Anti-Semitic Calls to Shuls 24-year-old Pearl River man has been arrested after making harassing and antiSemitic telephone calls two shuls and a Jewish community center in Rockland County, according to Clarkstown Police. The calls, police said, made direct

reference to the on-going conflict in Gaza, where Israel has retaliated with military action after Israel was hit by rocket fire from militants in Gaza. The calls, police said, blamed Israel for the violence in Gaza. NY Governor: LI Power Authority 'Has To End'

Lawrence, NY - New York Gov. Andrew Cuomo says the Long Island Power Authority "has to end." Cuomo made the critical remarks Wednesday while helping to pass out holiday meals to Superstorm Sandy victims in Lawrence, Long Island. According to Newsday Cuomo also said LIPA "hasn't worked in a long, long time." LIPA did not immediately respond to a comment request. Cuomo has formed a commission to investigate the responses of utilities following the superstorm. The governor said he expects a "full report in a matter of weeks." LIPA's operations chief has resigned. Cuomo's Utilities Commission Gets Started, Names Executive Director

The Moreland Commission panel named by Gov. Cuomo to investigate New York utility companies got down to work Tuesday by naming its new executive director: Suffolk Deputy County Executive Regina Calcaterra. Calcaterra, who will take a temporary leave from her Suffolk County job, will oversee the day-to-day operations of the commission. Cuomo tasked the group with reviewing the utility industry's performance during Hurricane Sandy and other recent storms and recommending changes. During its first meeting, the 10-member panel formed two subcommittees. One, headed by Nassau County District Attorney Kathleen Rice, will investigate the utilities' preparation and response. The other will undertake a strategic review of utilities and regulatory structures and will be led by former Public Service Commission Chairman Peter Bradford. The commission also promised to hold multiple public hearings in stormimpacted regions. “Our mandate from the Governor is to carry out a smart, aggressive, and fair investigation that will proceed rapidly," said Superintendent of Financial Services Benjamin Lawsky, a co-chair of the commission. "Most importantly, the investigation will put the needs of New York consumers first

‫תשע״ג‬

‫דער אדוואקאט ויצא‬

Hamas And Israel Agree To Ceasefire...... from page 1 has seen,” Amr said. Israeli sources said Israel had agreed to a truce, but would not lift its blockade of the Palestinian territory, which is run by the Islamist Hamas movement. All the sources declined to be named or to give further details of the arrangements hammered out in Cairo.

In Jerusalem, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu confirmed the deal, saying he had agreed after consulting with President Barack Obama to give a ceasefire with Hamas militants a chance, his office said in a statement. Obama reiterated his commitment to Israel’s security

and also said he was committed to seeking funds for joint missile defense programs. Israel’s best-selling Yedioth Ahronoth newspaper had reported an emerging outline of a ceasefire agreement that called for Egypt to announce a 72hour ceasefire followed by further talks on long-term understandings.

kosher food legislation in Congress continued from page 1

provide an invaluable service to neighbors in need, and we must do all we can to help support and sustain these resources. Our legislation will help make it easier for these food banks to provide kosher meals and food items, helping them to better meet the needs of the communities they serve.” “The devastation brought on by Hurricane Sandy has multiplied the need for kosher emergency bulk food, particularly proteins (tuna, salmon and meats), in our community now more than ever before,” said William E. Rapfogel, Met Council CEO. “Jewish individuals and families living in or near poverty become dangerously vulnerable in times of disaster. We are grateful for Senator Gillibrand and Congressman Crowley’s advocacy and support for this effort in normal times and even more in this crisis so we can ensure that all New Yorkers have equal access

to this basic necessity.” According to Met Council, nearly 400,000 poor or near-poor Jewish households citywide are struggling to get by and approximately 52,000 Jewish children are living in poverty. Currently, the USDA purchases some kosher foods under TEFAP but does not track or label them to ensure those meals end up in kosher-specific pantries and communities. Senator Gillibrand and Congressman Crowley authored legislation that would boost kosher meals for TEFAP and that would establish a system to monitor and account for the dietary restrictions of food-insecure individuals who can only eat kosher food due to their religious beliefs. The bill would require the USDA to target and purchase cost-effective kosher food from certified manufacturers as well as monitor and label

the meals as such for local kosher food banks. Earlier this year, Senator Gillibrand pushed the federal government to help New York City food banks, many which are experiencing shortages of kosher food, to provide meals and nutrition to observant seniors and families by making sure they receive the maximum kosher food allotment from TEFAP. Senator Gillibrand has led the fight in the U.S. Senate to restore over $4 billion in cuts to the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), or food stamps, which allow lowincome households, including kosher families, to buy food. Senator Gillibrand and Congressman Crowley will continue to urge Congress not to tighten its fiscal belt on the backs of families and children facing a constant struggle against hunger. !

THE

HINUCH FORU

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

NEW DATE!!

Tuesday, November 1st

Tuesday, November 27th 8:30pm – 9:45pm 8:30pm – 9:45pm

Hear Ye, of Hear Ye: 180 Days School: Helping Kids to that Will Not Fade Cultivating Success Communicate Their Needs

Interactive instructional session presented by instructional Eliezer Vilinsky, Interactive session followed by open questions and discussion presented by Eliezer Vilinsky,

followed by open questions and discussion Location: Cong. Bais Torah Library 89 Carlton Road W. Suffern, NY

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

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

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

8 Family Health Talk

THE ADVOCATE November 22, 2012

‫רופא חולים‬

Ben Gilman

Spring Valley Family Medical Center 175 Route 59, Spring Valley NY 10977

PEDIATRIC MEDICINE

Dr. Esther Bekritsky Dr. Paul Bloom Dr. Gerson Gluck

ADULT MEDICINE

Dr. James Israel Dr. Arthur Landau Dr. Debra Grohman Dr. Delatre Lolo Dr. Manoj Pulicottil Elana Klein, PA Erick Araujo, PA

FAMILY MEDICINE

Dr. Michael Safran Dr. Jamie Giraldo

OB/GYN

Dr. Joel W. Allen Dr. Debra Kirschner Melissa A. Carco, PA Nancy Solomon, CNM

DENTAL

Dr. Genady Benyaminov Dr. Stacey Lubetsky Dr. Ramin Kashani Dr. Jacklyn Tadros Dr. Sarah Hanna Dr. David Horowitz

SPECIALTY Dr. Harry Baldinger - Podiatry Dr. Michael Ginsburg- Podiatry Dr. David Schwalb - Urology Dr. Renata Witkowska - Allergy Dr. Samuel Wong - Ophthalmology Dr. Alfred Hellreich - Dermatology Dr. Philip Fried - Dermatology Dr. Yoel Kantor - Endocrinology Hanna Raice MS, RD, CDENutrition Counseling Aaron Muller, Speech Therapy Melech Karp, Speech Therapy

schedule your appointment today: Monsey Family Medical Center 40 Robert Pitt Dr. Monsey, NY 10952

(845) 352-6800

Affordable Care Act (cont. from page 1)

be discriminated against because of a pre-existing condition.” “The Affordable Care Act recognizes that wellrun, equitable workplace wellness programs allow workers to access services that can help them and their families lead healthier lives,” said Secretary of Labor Hilda L. Solis. “Employers, too, can benefit from reduced costs associated with a healthier workforce.” A proposed rule that, beginning in 2014, prohibits health insurance companies from discriminating against individuals because of a pre-existing or chronic condition. Under the rule,

insurance companies would be allowed to vary premiums within limits, only based on age, tobacco use, family size, and geography. Health insurance companies would be prohibited from denying coverage to any American because of a pre-existing condition or from charging higher premiums to certain enrollees because of their current or past health problems, gender, occupation, and small employer size or industry. The rule would ensure that people for whom coverage would otherwise be unaffordable, and young adults, have access to a catastrophic coverage plan in the individual market.

HEALTH NEWS Healthy Living

‫תשע״ג‬

‫דער אדוואקאט ויצא‬ MONSEY FAMILY MEDICAL CENTER

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

Childhood Dental hygiene Department of Pediatric Dentistry Good dental hygiene habits should begin before your child's first tooth comes in. Wiping your baby's gums with a soft damp cloth after feedings helps to prevent the buildup of bacteria. “When teeth appear, start using a soft children's toothbrush twice a day,” advises Dr. Stacey Lubetsky, a board certified pediatric dentist at the Monsey Family Medical Center. “You should continue to brush their teeth till they are about 6 years of age.” Once your child is preschool-age, start using fluoride toothpaste. Don't cover the brush with toothpaste; a pea-sized amount is just right (see picture above). Young children tend to swallow most of the toothpaste, and swallowing too much fluoride toothpaste can cause permanent stains on their teeth. Fluoride helps make teeth strong by hardening the tooth enamel. Many cities are required to add fluoride to tap water. “Rockland County water doesn't contain fluoride so a tablet may be recommended,” say Dr. Lubetsky. Fluoride is an important part of your child's dental health, but don't give him or her more than the directions call for. If you miss a dose, don't give your child extra fluoride to make up. Just as with swallowed toothpaste, too much oral fluoride can cause stains on your child's teeth. Cavities Cavities are holes that are formed when bacteria (germs) in your mouth use the sugar in food to make acid. This acid eats away at the teeth. Cavities are common in children. Good tooth care can keep cavities from happening in your child. Your child might be at risk for cavities if he or she eats a lot of sugary foods (such as raisins, cookies and candy) and drinks a lot of sweet liquids (such as fruit juice and punch, soda and sweetened drinks). Your child also might be at risk if he or she has spotting or discoloration on his or her teeth. Everyone in your family should take good care of their teeth. “Family members with lots of cavities can pass the cavity-causing bacteria to babies and children, notes Dr. Lubetsky, “Be careful not to share germs with your children, as this could transfer one of the many bacterium that leads to cavities.”

Need for vitamin D

Diet Yes. Avoiding sweets, sticky foods and between-meal snacks is good advice. To avoid cavities, limit sweet snacks and drinks between meals. Have meals and snacks at regular times. Teeth-friendly snacks include fresh fruits and vegetables, and cheese and crackers.

A bone builder

“Baby bottles can create additional problems with your child's dental health. When liquid from a bottle--like milk and juice-stays in contact with the teeth for a long time, the sugars cause tooth decay,” cautions Dr. Lubetsky. “This can create a condition called bottle mouth.” Your baby's teeth can develop cavities and become pitted or discolored. Never put a baby to bed with a bottle. Don't let your child walk around during the day with a bottle, and teach your child to use a drinking cup around his or her first birthday.

A new study shows that low levels of vitamin D may retard recovery from spinal fusion surgery.

• The success of the surgery depends on the body’s ability to form new bone to fuse spinal vertebrae • Calcium is essential for good bone health, and vitamin D helps with calcium absorption; people with low levels are at risk for a condition that interferes with bone formation • Vitamin D deficiency is treated by taking 50,000 units of the vitamin once a week for several weeks • The minimum daily requirement for healthy people is 600 units; the main sources are sunlight, fortified dairy products, fatty fish and supplements

Source: Science Daily, MCT Photo Service Graphic: Pat Carr

It's normal for children to suck their thumbs, their fingers or a pacifier. Most children give up this habit on their own by age 4, with no harm done to their teeth. If your child still has a sucking habit after age 4, tell your dentist. Your dentist can watch carefully for any problems as the teeth develop. In most children there is no reason to worry about a sucking habit until around age 6, when the permanent front teeth come in. When should I start taking my child to the dentist? The American Dental Association recommends that parents take their child to a dentist no later than his or her first birthday. This gives the dentist a chance to look for early problems with your child's teeth. Pediatric dentists specialize in treating children's dental health. You and your child's dentist should review important information about diet, bottles, tooth brushing and fluoride use. Visiting the dentist from a young age will help your child become comfortable with his or her dentist. It also establishes the good habit of regular dental check-ups.

THE ADVOCATE November 22, 2012

Spring hill ambulance volunteers bringing aid to long beach shuls

Photos by Yoni

‫מענער און פרויען דענטיסטס‬

‫תשע״ג‬

‫דער אדוואקאט ויצא‬

niklesburger rebbe, rabbi jungreis 24/7 helping put in sea gate Brooklyn

Family Health Talk

‫רופא חולים‬

Ben Gilman

Spring Valley Family Medical Center 175 Route 59, Spring Valley NY 10977

MONSEY FAMILY MEDICAL CENTER

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

play therapy may help your oppositional child By By: Naomi Franklin, LMSW

Do you feel like you are saying ‘No” too often? Does it seem that there are too many battles between you and your child?

PROJECT OHR Department of Behavioral Health

If so, some techniques from play therapy may help. First let’s discuss where those “no”’s and refusals may be coming from. While there are other reasons your child might be negative, the following are two very common ones. 1. Individuation is the fancy term for becoming an individual. Toddlers and older children are becoming aware that they are their own person and are learning to do things on their own. This is normal along with some willfulness which can turn into becoming oppositional when your directions clash with their wants. Whether it’s snacking right before dinner or refusing to go to or stay in bed, your child may be very sure that what he or she wants is not what you say! This is normal and we need to realize that their wanting something different than what we are asking for is not, in and of itself, ‘bad’ or unacceptable. We’ll discuss how to handle it soon, as we are not suggesting to ‘give in’ by any means! Just a slight paradigm shift to help us from feeling threatened when they start refusing or saying ‘No”. 2. Another very common reason that children become negative and testy is to get attention. Look very carefully over your interactions with that child over the past several days and evaluate how often have there been positive interactions between you two? Doing homework or helping them dress or eat doesn’t count. Think of times when you have not been teaching, giving directions, controlling, or giving concrete care. Do think of times when you are just enjoying your child’s company without ‘pulling rank’ or when you are appreciating your child for who only he or she is. Doing enjoyable things together or playing would be included with this. Now, be honest. If the negative times outweigh the positive times, or even if it seems equal, your child might just be going for your attention. For a child prefers any interaction to no interaction. And negativity can also provide a very intense connection that is far more preferable for the child than no interaction at all. Research has shown that negative interactions and criticisms carry more weight than positive interactions. For that reason we need to sometimes work very hard to focus on being as positive as possible; e.g. instead of “Don’t hit the baby!” to the toddler, say “Soft hands, honey”. Or instead of “Stop that whining!” to a school age child, say “I’ll be happy to listen to what you’re saying when you use your big girl/ grown up voice”. Now we want to briefly introduce the A.C.T. method started by a pioneer in play therapy. Acknowledge Feelings, Communicate limits, and Target and reinforce appropriate behavior. Acknowledging feelings brings us back to #1. It’s okay if your child wants the lollipop right before supper or doesn’t want to stop playing to do his homework. When we show our child that we ‘get it’ and realize how intensely they feel about it we automatically can lower their emotional intensity as they feel relief from our empathy. E.g.: “you really don’t want to stop playing now. You’re having such a good time and you’re upset [angry, frustrated, disappointed, sad…] that it’s homework time now.” You might even want to give them in fantasy what they can’t have in reality, e.g.: ‘You probably wish you could just keep

PSYCHIATRY Seymour Kushnir, MD ADULT PSYCHIATRY Zvi Weisstuch, MD ADULT and Child PSYCHIATRY

SOCIAL WORK

Individual, Couple Child & Family Therapy

playing all night long!” It seems counter intuitive, but it works if we genuinely try to put ourselves in their shoes for a moment. Don’t get scared; we’re not giving in to them. Hang in there. Communicate limits: “The clock says it’s homework time now.” Or, “The rule is ‘no snacking 45 minutes before supper’. Or, “hands are not for hitting”, or “toys are not for throwing”. Notice these are impersonal rules to avoid power struggles. “Act nice” or “Be good [or] polite” would not work here. Kids need to hear very specific and concrete behaviors to understand. Target and reinforce appropriate behavior: give your child an acceptable alternative behavior. For example, “If you finish your homework before 7pm, you can choose a game to play till bedtime”. Or, “You may have some apple slices or vegetable sticks while you wait, or, “you can help me set the table so I can put out supper faster.” Or, “tell your brother with words what upsets you or what you want”. Then when your child uses the appropriate behavior, reinforce it by drawing attention to it: “You were able to make a good choice”, or “that was hard, but you spoke to your brother respectfully”. Or “it wasn’t easy to stop playing and come in, but you did it!”. Now, to address attention getting, try to keep your voice neutral when responding to negativity. Otherwise you may be actually reinforcing the negativity by giving your child that extra dose of intense connection through angry scolding. If your child is trying to get your attention through provoking fights with siblings, make sure to give your attention to the victim and be very flat, neutral, and less interested with the aggressor. Last but not least, schedule positive time with your child if you have to, but make sure to increase the frequency of positive interactions. When they will learn they can get your love and attention through positive behavior much negativity will fade. Enjoy your child! And if your best efforts are not helping, or if your child is negative, hostile, and defiant towards most adults, don’t hesitate to contact one of the child therapists at Project Ohr, 845352-6800 X 6849.

Malka Harris Susswein LCSW, Clinical Director Project Ohr, Individual and Family Therapist Gelly Asovski LCSW, Play Therapist Rabbi Aryeh Frankel LMSW, Family Therapist, males, teens and adults Sharon Kronenberg LCSW, Individual TherapistAdults Chana Simmonds LCSW, Family and Individual Therapist- Adults Gila Zelinger LCSW, Family and Individual Therapist, Teens and Adults Naomi Franklin LMSW, Child Therapist Yael Kahan LMSW, Family and Individual Therapist, Teens and Adults Esther Rothbaum LMSW, Child Therapist Toby Spitzer LMSW, Individual and Family Therapist Tziporah Spira LMSW Family and Individual Therapist, Teens and Adults Aviva Cohen LMSW, Therapist Pre-Teens, and Teens Rabbi Moshe Abramczyk LMSW, Therapist, males, ages 12 and above

‫דער אדוואקאט ויצא‬

‫תשע״ג‬

‫איר קענט דא‬ ‫באקומען אייער‬

‫פלו‬ ‫שאט‬ ‫ַ‬

‫‪11‬‬

‫‪THE ADVOCATE November 22, 2012‬‬

‫דער אדוואקאט ויצא‬ FORECLOSURE COUNSELING Programmable Thermostats for Consumers-Did You Know? 12

THE ADVOCATE November 22, 2012

‫תשע״ג‬

RCDC Housing, Inc.

The average household spends more than $2,200 a year on energy bills - nearly half of which goes to heating and cooling. Homeowners can save about $180 a year by properly setting their programmable thermostats and maintaining those settings.

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

A programmable thermostat helps make it easy for you to save by offering four pre-programmed settings to regulate your home's temperature in both summer and winter - when you are home, asleep, or away. The pre-programmed settings that come with programmable thermostats are intended to deliver savings without sacrificing comfort. Depending on your family's schedule, you can see significant savings by sticking with those settings or adjust them as appropriate for your family. The key is to establish a program that automatically reduces heating and cooling in your home when you don't need as much.

would like to help you...

(845) 352-1400 ext. 3243 RCDC HOUSING DEPARTMENT

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

HOME HEATING HELP AVAILABLE TO RESIDENTS

ffective November 19, 2012, Rockland County families with low incomes can apply for grants to help pay for their heating bills under the State's Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP). The one-time regular benefit ranges from a $20-$25 renters benefit to a maximum of $650 per household for heating with oil, kerosene, propane and $450 for gas and electric. The benefit is dependent on income and family size, and payments go directly to the utility company. Residents do not have to be facing a shut off to receive a HEAP benefit. The HEAP season ends on March 15, 2013. There is also a one-time emergency benefit that may be available for those households that are without the means to pay their bill and who have received a shut off notice from their utility provider. The emergency benefit ranges from a $160 renters benefit to a maximum of $600 per household for heating with oil, kerosene, propane and $560 for gas and electric. Applications for emergency benefits will be accepted starting January 2, 2013. The grant for families varies according to size of household. To be eligible, single persons living alone must have a monthly gross income no higher than $2,138. Eligible income limits for larger households are: two persons - $2,796; three persons - $3,453; four persons - $4,111; five persons - $4,769; six persons - $5,427; seven persons - $5,550; eight persons - $5,673; nine persons - $5,797; ten persons - $5,920; eleven persons - $6,346. In households over eleven persons, the income limit is increased by $495 for each additional person. Anyone living in federally

Is your home drafty? Is it cold in your home during the winter? Are your heating bills high? If you answered YES to any of these questions then give us a call to find out if you are eligible for the New York State WEATHERIZATION Program Weatherization is a New York State funded program open to income eligible homeowners and renters. If eligible, you would receive a home energy audit to determine how your home’s efficiency could be improved. We replace windows and doors, insulate attics and walls (all determined at your audit) as well as do overall measures to better airseal your home. Weatherization works! Call today for an application.

RCDC Housing, Inc. at 845-352-1400 ext. 3240

subsidized housing or is enrolled in Section 8 Voucher/Certificate Program where heat is included in the rent is not eligible. New HEAP applicants should call the Rockland Community Development Council at 845-352-1400 Residents who have received a termination notice should fax the notice to the HEAP Unit at 364-3130.

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

to cost. An honest discussion at the beginning of a representation will save aggravation for both attorney and client later on. It is important for clients to understand many legal matters are far more complex than the client may initially realize. Open communication is the best way to prevent problems. Lawyers are also supposed to provide client's with a list of "Client Rights and Responsibilities." This document, drafted by the court system, explains your attorney's obligation, your obligations as a client and other parameters of the attorney-client relationship. In the event you believe an attorney has violated his responsibilities to you, you can file a complaint with the Grievance Committee. While the overwhelming majority of complaints are dismissed and the committee does generally involve itself in fee disputes, you should press forward with a Complaint if you believe your attorney has acted in a fashion contrary to his or her obligation to zealously represent your interests. Contrary to the belief of some, attorneys are not obligated to provide anyone with a free consultation. Though some lawyers will offer a free consultation, never show up at a lawyer's office expecting to get advice free of charge. Always inquire in advance if there will be a fee for your meeting.

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

THE ADVOCATE November 22, 2012

‫תשע״ג‬

‫דער אדוואקאט ויצא‬

east ramapo has much in common with the country's property tax funded schools

t's not just East Ramapo, its all of the United States that is having a hard time keeping services and classes up to par. The NY times reported this week that During the campaign, both President Obama and Mitt Romney repeatedly extolled the value of schools and teachers. Mr. Romney, in their first debate last month, even vowed, "I'm not going to cut education funding." If the government is unable to come to a resolution, federal education programs for elementary and high schools would lose a little over $2 billion - or close to 8 percent of the current budget - starting next fall, according to the Office of Management and Budget and the Education Department. School districts around the country are bracing for cutbacks. In Boston, programs for English language learners and students at risk of failing a grade would be curtailed. In Cleveland, where the district has already lopped 50 minutes off the school day and limited art and music, officials fear they would have to curtail a literary program for struggling

fourth and fifth graders, and lay off more classroom teachers. Miami-Dade, which has so far avoided pink slips for teachers, would probably start issuing them. While federal funding generally represents about 10 percent of public school budgets, schools have already lost millions of dollars in state money. According to an analysis by the Center on Budget and Policy Priorities, a liberal-leaning research and advocacy group, 26 states cut funding this school year, and two-thirds of states are providing less money for public education than they did five years ago. It may be several years before state coffers recover enough to restore funding to previous levels. At the same time, schools have been hobbled as another important source of financing property tax collections - has plunged after the housing crisis. While declines in state and local funding affect most public schools, cuts in federal funding would jeopardize services at schools that serve the neediest children. Federal funding for elementary and secondary education is directed primarily at lowincome students as well as English language learners and those with special education needs.

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Conser vatives have argued that federal education spending has more than doubled in the last four decades, while test scores have not risen much. Voters in several other states have also shown support for public schools, by either approving new taxes or rejecting measures that would have diminished education funding.

THE ADVOCATE November 22, 2012 Try This

Super-strong eggshells

• Four eggs • Sharp scissors • Bowl

• Tape

Wash and air dry the shells

2 Tape

Punch a hole in the small end of each egg, snip it larger and pour the eggs into the bowl Give the eggs to your helper Ð they are good for cooking

Chicken eggs are just thin shells of mineral, but you may be surprised how strong they are.

You’ll need

‫תשע״ג‬

Stick tape around each egg; carefully break away shell between tape and hole EggÕs widest point

Put shells on floor in a square and gently put a book on them

How many more books do you think they can hold? Add more books and see how strong the eggshells are

‫דער אדוואקאט ויצא‬

What happened? Eggshells are strong because they work the same way as an arch or dome Eggshell is strong if you push against its end ...

... but weak if you push against its flat side

Put weight on one place, and the curving shell spreads the force all around the egg The strong walls of the shell support the weak point

WEIGHT

STRONG

WEAK

STRONG Graphic: Paul Trap

NelsoN Metals - DaviD Metals Scrap Metal recycling SpecialiStS

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THE ADVOCATE November 22, 2012

‫תשע״ג‬

‫דער אדוואקאט ויצא‬

Ramapo Lighting and Electric Your Electric Supplier Since 1998

Monday-Thursday: 7:30am-5:00 845-425-7750 Friday: 7:30am-3:00 32 South Central Avenue Sunday:8:30-12:30 Spring Valley, NY 10977 Professional Staff, Free Delivery, All Commercial Fixtures,Landscape Lighting, Wiring, Dimmers, Switch Plates, all Types of Switches and Plugs, Breakers, Panels and all Other Electrical and Commercial Needs.

Lighting By Fran Monday &Wednesday- 10:30-7:00 Tuesday & Thursday-10:30-5:30 Friday: 10:30-3:00 Sunday: 11:00-5:00

845-425-9070 26 S. Central Ave. Spring Valley, NY 10977

We are distributors of all major companies including: American Brass & Crystal, Schonbek, Murray Feiss, Corbett, Kichler, Troy and many more. Please call for more info.

We also carry a large line of mirrors and accent furniture In home shopping available.

Bulb Depot USA 845-425-7750

32 S. Central Avenue, Spring Valley, NY 10977

We carry all kinds of regular and specialty bulbs including Halogen, Led, Induction Bulbs, HPS Bulbs plus many more. Shomer Shabbos

THE ADVOCATE November 22, 2012

rcdc

WOMEN’S SENIOR GROUP MONDAY & WEDNESDAY 12:30PM- 3:00PM

nutritious lunch served, stimulating program, & musical entertainment, free transportation

FOR INFORMATION PLEASE CALL 845.352.1400 x 3245 A PROJECT OF OFA OF ROCKLAND COUNTY

‫תשע״ג‬

‫דער אדוואקאט ויצא‬

THE ADVOCATE November 22, 2012

‫תשע״ג‬

‫דער אדוואקאט ויצא‬

ta k e m y c a r d get your business card noticed by over 20,000 potential clients. Advertise with the Advocate.

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EDUCATIONAL SUPPORT SERVICES Educational Consultants

• in-school support • • comprehensive educational evaluations • • individualized instruction • " helping children to help themselves " Eliezer Vilinsky, M.A. Miryam Vilinsky, M.Ed.

(845) 426-3673 www.TReaching.com

Reliable Brokerage Insurance *******************

Henry Kellner 845-783-6286

Hon. Alfred J. Weiner (Ret.) Attorney At Law/Mediator Former

Supreme Court Justice/Surrogate Court Judge/Family Court Judge • • • •

Wills, Estates, and Surrogate litigation Divorce and Family Law Guardianship and Elder Law Real Estate

• • • •

Corporate General Business Medical Malpractice Personal Injury

210 Route 303 Valley Cottage 10989 Phone: 845 639 7800 Fax: 845 639 7850

E-mail: aweiner@mkbllp.com

Heimeshe Handyman Carpentry, Electrical repairs & troubleshooting, Plumbing repairs & troubleshooting, Sheetrock, Ceramic, Painting, Closets, Doors, Windows, Appliance Installations, Much More! 35 Years Experience—Shomer Shabbos

Complete Home Maintenance

No Job Too Small

Rons General

845-425-0639

Household Service

THE ADVOCATE November 22, 2012

‫תשע״ג‬

‫דער אדוואקאט ויצא‬

CLASSIFIED ads

To place a classified ad for $10 please call 845.770.1950 • or E-mail Sales@advocateNews.org

mini van for sale

EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES Medical Center Seeks to fill several positions

2005 Toyota Sienna LE 7-Passenger Runs great, Good Condition inside and out, Cold AC $6,000.00 Call 845-709-4321 for more details

Full time Pediatrician, Full time Internist, Part Time Allergist, Part Time Dermatologist & Part Time Nutritionist FULL TIME – Medical Assistant, PART TIME – CALL ROOM RECEPTIONIST Yiddish or Spanish speaking VERY helpful Please call: 845-352-6800 x 6834, or send resume: Email: RCHealthCenter@Gmail.com Fax: 845-425-1228

Long Friday Night? Uncomfortable Mattress?

Available for Elder care, Childcare, Housekeeping.

Come See Us

Live in or out. Excellent references available. Please call Maria at 914-648-5197

Top Quality / Lowest Prices to fit your budget / Don’t Pay Store Prices!

Shomer Shabbos—Heimishe Service Standard & Special Sizes , Custom Shapes, Conventional Beds, One sided & Two sided Mattresses, Pillow Tops, Memory/Latex, Foam, Adjustable Electric Beds, Custom Matts, Highrisers

new farm ....community in ramapo

Mattresses for: Home, Hotels & Motels, Hospitals, Nursing Homes, Schools, Dorms, Camps, Bungalows

looking for serious people with experience in farming or an interest in farming.

RG Bedding & Accessories

please email editor@advocateNews.org call; 770-1950

N.Y. 845-425-6400, N.J. 201-645-1054

can you write? writing intern positions

available in the advocate e-mail editor@advocatenews. org

CONDOS FOR RENT-SALE

MONSEY BLUEBERRY HILL 1 BR FROM 129K - 2 BR FROM 229K PREFERRED PROPERTIES

Graphic Design Professional graphics. Lowest rates.

845-202-0669 nnydesigns@gmail.com

notice Notice of lien and garageman’s sale against Pamela Williamson For Sale on Nov 26th at 3pm at Interstate Toyota 411 Route 59 Airmont NY 2000 Toyota MR2 VIN# JTDFR3203Y0016106

845.352.4440 can you sell? sales ad agents positions available e-mail editor@advocatenews.org call 845 770 1950

work from home ...selling ads serious sales people ONLY commission based 845.770.1950

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

CONDOS FOR RENT

help wanted

MONSEY BLUEBERRY HILL Apartments for rent

selling ads for newspaper • flexible hours • good pay • should have experience e-mail: ads@advocatenews.org

1 Bedroom from $1,140 2 Bedrooms from $1,620 3 Bedrooms from $2,015

NOT TO BE COMBINED WITH ANY OTHER OFFER

CALL BLUEBERRY HILL 845.352.4440

To place a classified ad please call 845.770.1950 or E-mail Sales@advocateNews.org or FAX 845-746-2203

THE ADVOCATE November 22, 2012

‫תשע״ג‬

‫דער אדוואקאט ויצא‬

leasinG sPeCials

2012 RAv- 4wd

2012 SIENNA

as loW as $149.00 mo

as loW as $199.00 mo

2012 hIghlANdER

2012 CAMRy

as loW as $229.00 mo

as loW as $179.00 mo

lEASE INCludES fREE 2 yR, 25k MIlE REQuIREd SERvICE

TRI-STATE LEASING 845-729-9171

pmaloney@interstatetoyotascion.com OFFER EXPIRES OCTOBER 31ST

Emergency Chesed Fund set up in NY raises $130,000.00 and counting Dozens of families have been completely wiped out by the storm surge. Some have insurance and some are underinsured, but many have no insurance at all. New York's leading Jewish chesed groups have created an emergency fund to support local victims of Hurricane Sandy. The "Emergency Sandy Chesed Fund" was formed at a meeting called by Councilman David G. Greenfield on November 1, 2012 to thank the groups for their efforts since the storm hit and to improve coordination between them. The fund sites some real life examples: Family K. Severe damage to his house in basement and main floor. He lost two cars completely. Van will be covered but car will not. Lost much furniture. Lost tons of clothing for his sons and himself. Lost a Pesach Kitchen. Lost many appliances, washers, hot water heater, boiler. Lost a lot of work. Recently had back surgery, and is supposed to be resting, but is homeless due to this. His job at nursing home may be no longer, due to the fact that he worked at a nursing home, which was severely flooded as well. Family S. Lost entire basement apartment, where she rented. Landlord is unreachable. Lost all her furniture. Lost all of her baby equipment (she has an 8 month old, a toddler, and is pregnant). Lost a Freezer. She Lost all her clothing, including, maternity clothing. Her husband lost his clothing as well. Her husband is a Sofer and lost all of his equipment, including, cloths, scraper, lamp, ink, etc. They are currently homeless, and are in a lot of pain. Family H. Rented apartment completely destroyed by flood. Has no rental insurance. He has lost everything, including furniture, toys for his kids, and clothing for himself, wife, and kids. They lost their washer and dryer and all kitchen appliances and dishes and utensils.

Family W. Major flooding in his home. He lost all of his plumbing appliances. He needs basement and some main level gutted and redone. He lost his minivan. He is in financial crisis aside from this already. He is completely lost. Family G. Lost entire apartment he rented with his family. They are currently homeless, and started out in tremendous financial distress as is. They have many children, two with disabilities. He is unemployed. They lost all of their clothing, furniture, appliances, etc. He is currently living in the shul, and has no clothing for himself or his children.

All proceeds of the "Emergency Sandy Chesed Fund" will go directly to victims and victim services. No donations will be used for administration or overhead. The fund will be managed by Chevra Hatzalah with the support of the following organizations: local Hatzalah groups, Shomrim, Misaskim, Chaveirim, Met Council, Yad Ephraim and neighborhood Jewish Community Councils. If you prefer to mail a check please make it out to the “Hurricane Sandy Chesed Fund” and mail it to 1340 East 9th Street, Brooklyn, New York 11230 c/o Chevra Hatzalah.

DATED MATERIAL

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…is not a GAME Child Care Fraud may exist when: An APPLICANT FOR, or RECIPIENT of, Child Care Services, deliberately provides the Department of Social Services with FALSE, INCOMPLETE, OR MISLEADING INFORMATION regarding their:  Household composition (either someone moved into the house or moved out)  Household income  Need for child care services  Residency  OR OMITS other material facts – including failing to promptly notify Social Services of a change in their previously reported circumstances A CHILD CARE PROVIDER deliberately:  Falsifies or alters attendance records to mark a child present who is not and bills the Department of Social Services for services not provided  Shares child care subsidy monies with the recipient  Charges the Department of Social Services more when caring for a child on Child Care Subsidy assistance than a member of the general public

If you suspect someone is committing Fraud:  Phone Information Rockland: 845-364-2020  E-mail your information to: reportfraud@dfa.state.ny.us  Mail your information to: Rockland County Department of Social Services Attn: Special Investigations Unit, Building L P. O. Box 307 Pomona, NY 10970 ***YOU MAY REMAIN ANONYMOUS & THE SOURCES OF ALL FRAUD ALLEGATIONS ARE KEPT STRICTLY CONFIDENTIAL*** THOMAS P.ZUGIBE District Attorney

C. SCOTT VANDERHOEF County Executive

SUSAN SHERWOOD Commissioner Department of Social Services