Williamsburg Jewish Community - Built on the Holocaust Ashes - Remembers U.S. Service-Members' Assistance During and After Holocaust

New York Times Covers Recent Reunion of Williamsburg Survivors with Service Member who Fed and Dressed them Immediately after the War

Williamsburg - Veterans Day - when we all reflect on the heroic, selfless service of our service-members to our country - has a special meaning to the Jewish community in Williamsburg, built on the ashes of the Holocaust by a small number of Holocaust survivors. The community remembers the key role that the US Military played ending the holocaust, ending the annihilation of the Jewish People in Europe, and the tremendous help and care that US Service Members extended to the survivors immediately after their liberation.

Two weeks ago, an emotional reunion took place in Williamsburg between survivors, many children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren and a U.S. Pilot, Mr. Alan Golub, whom they thanked for providing them food and clothing after the holocaust. On his own initiative, Mr. Golub saved them from hunger and returned their dignity. The reunion was covered in Sunday's NY Times.

 Alan Golub and his P-51 Mustang fighter plane

The UJO’s President Rabbi David Niederman said: ”Lt. Golub is just one of our country’s incredible members of the military. He went unrecognized for 70 years, until he was reunited with the survivors thanks to the interest of a family member. There are many more service-members with similar stories that we don't even know. They didn't do it for fame, but to make the world a better place. As we mark Veteran’s Day, we recognize Lt. Golub’s and all his fellow WWII vets, many of whom are still with us, for their selfless service. We owe all U.S. veterans our deep gratitude and appreciation for enabling us to enjoy the freedoms we all hold so dear. We continue to pray for all service members in the line of duty to continue spread freedom successfully, and return home to their families safely and healthy."

The survivors with the dresses secured by Mr. Golub - in the photo presented to him as a token of appreciation

1)    The back of the photo with the survivors’ names, according to the numbers on the photos, and their thank you note presented at the time to Mr. Golub

Mr. Golub, surrounded by survivors he helped, and their families

L. to R. Dr. Iriving Shindler, Executive Director of Pesach Tikva, Mr. Alan Golub, Rabbi David Niederman, Chairman of the Board, and Dr. Zalmen Kotzen Director of Geriatric Services

 

Assemblyman Lentol and Community Board 1 Members Do Site Visit with Brooklyn Borough DOT Commissioner to Discuss Traffic Concerns at Wythe Avenue, Flushing Avenue Intersections.

Assemblyman Joe Lentol (D – North Brooklyn) met with Rabbi Abe Perlstein, First Vice Chair of Community Board 1, Simon Weiser, Co-Chair of the Community Board’s Transportation Committee, Gerry Esposito, the Community Board’s District Manager, and Brooklyn Borough Department of Transportation Commissioner Keith Bray last week for a site visit to review the traffic congestion and safety problems at the intersection of Wythe Avenue and Williamsburg Street West and at the Flushing Avenue exit on the eastbound side of the BQE.

“The problem is that you have traffic exiting the BQE and merging with traffic from Williamsburg Street West,” said Lentol.  “Half the people want to turn on Wythe Avenue and half want to go straight through, but the merge is what makes it difficult.  As for Flushing Avenue, the backup during peak hours is tremendous and a huge inconvenience for people who get stuck there.  We’re trying to find creative solutions to these problems.”

(left to right) Rabbi Abe Perlstein, Samuel Stern, Simon Weiser, DOT Brooklyn Borough Commissioner Keith Bray, Assemblyman Joe Lentol, and CB 1 District Manager Gerry Esposito

The community Board members agreed that it was a productive meeting.

“I'm thankful to Brooklyn CB1 Chair Dealice Fuller and Manager Gerry Esposito for arranging for the on-site visit.  A special thanks to Borough Commissioner Keith Bray for making the time for the visit, and thoroughly analyzing the problem and possible solutions,” said Rabbi Abraham Perlstein, First Vice Chair of Community Board.  “We were pleasantly surprised that on a quiet August Friday, Assemblyman Lentol was on call and hard at work, showing up to assisting in improving the traffic and safety in the area.”

“The bottleneck at the BQE Flushing Avenue exit is unbearable to the neighborhood, and it often backs up the BQE.  The Wythe Avenue exit also needs improvements.  I'm thankful to DOT Borough Commissioner Bray for taking his time to review the problems, and for working on improvement to mitigate the traffic nightmare on Flushing Avenue,” said Rabbi David Niederman, President of the UJO of Williamsburg and North Brooklyn.  “A special shout out to Assemblyman Joe Lentol, for his personal devotion to improve the traffic movement in the area, by securing funding for the South Williamsburg Transportation Study, working on trouble-blocks in the area, and for joining us now to review and seek solutions for the traffic issues at the BQE exits.  I'm also very thankful to the Community Board Chair Fuller, Manager Esposito, and the members who are working tirelessly on these issues.”

Source: Press Release by Assemblyman Lentol's office.

Assemblyman Lentol Meets with Community Leaders, NYPD’s Top Brass, and Other Elected Officials to Discuss the Recent Spate of Hate Crimes Against the Hasidic Jewish Community in South Williamsburg

Assemblyman Joseph R. Lentol (D-North Brooklyn) met last week with Rabbi David Niederman, Director of the United Jewish Organizations of Williamsburg and North Brooklyn; Williamsburg Shomrim; New York City Police Department’s (NYPD) 90^th Precinct Commanding Officer Mark DiPaolo and Patrol Borough Brooklyn North Commanding Officer Assistant Chief Jeffrey Maddrey; Senator Daniel Squadron; Senator Martin Dilan; Assemblywoman Maritza Davila; and representatives from Council Member Steve Levin’s Office, Mayor Bill de Blasio’s Office and Brooklyn Borough President Eric Adams’ Office to discuss the recent spate of hate crimes on members of the Hasidic Jewish community within South Williamsburg.

There have been several incidents over the last few months in which Hasidic Jewish community members have been paintballed, attacked with bottles, and otherwise physically assaulted. The meeting was called at the request of Rabbi Niederman to discuss how the community could become more involved in preventing these heinous crimes.

NYPD top brass stressed the importance of using video cameras in the apprehension of perpetrators and also voiced how important it is for private security cameras to be in working order, as many times crimes are solved using their footage. While the group determined that video cameras act not only as a great tool for finding perpetrators, they are also a valuable deterrent and create a greater sense of safety in any community. The elected officials pledged to work together on an education campaign to inform residents of the value of having working security cameras and are in the process of securing additional funding to purchase more cameras for the area.

“We all came together because there is no better way to solve problems than with a broad coalition. No person should be subject to an assault – no matter their religion or the color of their skin. I know these perpetrators will be caught and I know that the NYPD and the Williamsburg Shomrim are hard at work to prevent any future attacks,” Lentol said.

Source: Press Release by Assemblyman Lentol's office

For additional coverage of the meeting see: http://jpupdates.com/2015/07/14/city-officials-meet-with-williamsburg-jewish-community-leaders-to-discuss-recent-hate-crimes/


R to L: Assemblyman Joel Lentol, Piny Ringel of Mayor de Blasio's CAU, Councilman Levin's Deputy Chief of Staff Casey Adams, Senator Marty Dilan and his Legislative Director Charvey Gonzalez, Inspector Patrick Keane of Special Victims Unit, CO of 90th Precinct Deputy Inspector Mark DiPaolo, Patrol Borough Brooklyn North Chief Jeffrey Maddrey, Rabbi Abe Friedman of Borough President Eric Adams' office



From center clock wise: Assemblyman Lentol's Communication Directory Edward Baker, State Senator Squadron's Communications Director Dan Weisfeld, UJO President Rabbi David Niederman, Williamsburg Shomrim Coordinator Mr. Yanky Itzkowitz, Rabbi Friedman, Chief Maddrey, Deputy Inspector DiPaolo, Inspector Keane, Rabbi Fisher, Mr. Gonzalez, Senator Dilan, Mr. Adams, Mr. Ringel, Assemblyman Lentol, State Senator Daniel Squadron, Councilman Marc Levine, Assemblywoman Maritza Davilla, Council Speaker Melissa Mark-Viverito's Jewish Liaison Jennie Berger

 

UJO Applauds Supreme Court Affordable Health Care Act Decision

The United Jewish Organizations of Williamsburg and North Brooklyn  - a premier social services agency servicing thousands with health care enrollments and an array of other social services annually - released the following statement in response to today's Supreme Court Affordable Health Care Act Ruling:

“As an agency helping to enroll thousands in Affordable Health Care Act, we applaud today's Supreme Court decision to uphold this important act for millions of Americans. Fortunately, New York State has the Health Exchange Marketplace, which is of the best in the nation to enroll in the Affordable Health Care Plans. Our clients would continue to benefit from their plans notwithstanding today's ruling. However, today's decision is important to millions nationwide to continue affording them the opportunity of affordable quality health care coverage," said Rabbi David Niederman, UJO President.

Las year, Rabbi Niederman joined President Obama in the White House to celebrate eight million Affordable Health Care Act sign-ups.

January 2, 2015 Column: Emergency HEAP Program Starts on Friday; Applications Accepted in the UJO Every Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday

The article reported that Emergency HEAP Program Starts on Friday; Applications Accepted in the UJO Every Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday; Emergency HEAP can provide up to $575 (in addition to regular HEAP) to prevent utility shut-off.

The article had the guidelines, required documents, maximum income, and other information for perspective applicants looking for assistance to cover their heating and utility bills.

 

January 2, 2015 Column: Emergency HEAP Program Starts on Friday; Applications Accepted in the UJO Every Mon...

December 26, 2014 Column: Meeting with DOT Commissioner to Discuss Wallabout-Flushing Traffic

December 26, 2015, Column: HRA Commissioner Meets with UJO; Large Crowd at Wallabout-Flushing Meeting with... by United Jewish Column

The article on page 22 and 23 reported on a very-successful meeting with the DOT - arranged by the UJO together with Councilman Levin and Assemblyman Lentol - to discuss severe traffic issues on Wallabout Street and Flushing Avenue.
Brooklyn DOT Commissioner Mr. Keith Bray led the meeting; Councilman Levin attended, together with representatives of Assemblyman Lentol and Senator Squadron.
Attendees expressed overwhelming support for the UJO-proposed plan to turn Wallabout into a one-way street for the safety of the area and to ease congestion; DOT will consider improvements to the plan suggested by residents.

December 26, 2014, Column: HRA Commissioner Meets with UJO

Article appears on page 15 and 25.

 

HRA Commissioner Steve Banks meets with the UJO; Councilman Steve Levin, General Welfare Chair, attend the meeting; Various issues effecting Medicaid and Food Stamps (SNAP) recipients discussed.

Commissioner details plans to improve computer system to enable food stamps applicants to to review the status on their cases and applications; Will address other issues raised at the meeting.

 

 

December 26, 2015, Column: HRA Commissioner Meets with UJO

Statement by Rabbi David Niederman on Mayor de Blasio’s Base Lining of Additional Priority 5 Child Care Vouchers

“The community is tremendously thankful to Mayor de Blasio for base lining an additional 12.6 million dollars to fund Priority 5 vouchers for working parents, bringing crucial assistance to so many poor, hard-working families and their children city-wide. Base lining will give these families the peace of mind and security that they will be able to continue benefitting from it on a steady basis, so that they can look and find permanent work,” said Rabbi David Niederman.

Mayor de Blasio was always a strong proponent of extending child care services for working families, and from day one as mayor he was committed to reopen this important assistance to additional eligible children. Last year, the City Council, under the leadership of Speaker Melissa Mark-Viverito included 12.6 million dollars for additional vouchers. It followed the strong advocacy of Councilman Stephen Levin, Chair of the General Welfare Committee, who was joined by many of his colleagues who called the city to restart issuing new Priority 5 vouchers – discontinued by the Bloomberg Administration.  The funding was enabled through the support of the Mayor. Today’s announcement by the mayor, that it will be base lined in the routine budget, as requested by the City Council, goes a long way in making this restoration permanent.

“We thank Speaker Mark-Viverito, Councilman Levin, and Mr. Avi Fink, for their hard work to expand child care services to all New Yorkers. Today’s decision is another step forward in the Mayor’s hard work to uplift all New Yorkers. We are grateful for that,” said Rabbi Niederman.

Councilman Levin's statement on baselining of low-income child care vouchers in Executive Budget

BROOKLYN – Council Member Stephen Levin is applauding the baselining of $12.6 million for low-income child care vouchers in New York City’s Fiscal Year 2016 Executive Budget. Low-income vouchers are an important resource for families throughout the City who depend on them to provide child care for their children. Levin, the Chair of the Committee on General Welfare, has made the baselining of funding for low-income vouchers a top priority during budget negotiations.

 

“The baselining of funding for low-income child care vouchers is a major step for families in need of child care in the communities I represent and throughout New York City. Families deserve high quality child care and by taking this action, we will help to ensure that families throughout New York City have continued access to this important resource. Thank you to Mayor de Blasio and his Administration for including this important funding in the Executive Budget.”

Thousands Benefit from UJO of Williamsburg and Met Council Huge Annual Passover Food Distribution

Williamsburg – The annual pre-Passover food distribution by the United Jewish Organizations of Williamsburg and North Brooklyn (UJO) in partnership with the Met Council - that took place today (Sunday) in the Brooklyn Navy Yard – will help feed many thousands during the upcoming Passover holiday.

The UJO’s annual distribution is conducted in a drive thru system, with two rows of open-trunked cars passing pallets of the distributed items, and crews unloading cases of food products into their cars. It was amazing to watch, during the span of many hours, as an endless row of cars kept moving, and each of them emerged from the drive-thru line with a car load of Passover staples.

This distribution is very important in advance of the Passover holiday, when families face a limited and expansive Kosher for Passover food selection, and Hasidic families only eat what they prepare themselves in their own kitchens. It requires purchasing large quantities of the Passover staples, something that many families, unfortunately, cannot afford. The annual distribution assists many of these families to enjoy a happy Passover, and assure that they aren’t going hungry for the eight-day holiday.

The distribution was joined by NYC Public Advocate Letitia James, Brooklyn Borough President Eric Adams, Brooklyn District Attorney Ken Thompson, Assemblymen Joe Lentol and Dov Hikind, Councilmembers Steve Levin, Laurie Cumbo and Rafael Espinal, Mr. Pinny Ringel of Mayor de Blasio’s Community Assistance unit, Mr. Pinny Hikind of Comptroller Scott Stringer’s office, District Leader Nick Rizzo, and many others who came to show support for this mega charitable endeavor.

“This distribution only took place thanks to Met Council. Many thousands of families – in Williamsburg an throughout the City and beyond - will happily celebrate the Passover, and have happier and easier lives year-round, thanks to this important organization,” said Rabbi David Niederman, Executive Director of the UJO. “I want to express our appreciation to Agger Fish Corp. and its president Mr. Marc Agger for providing the warehouse for this year’s distribution. It is a major contribution to the neighborhood. I also want to thank the Brooklyn Navy Yard, the NYPD’s 88th Precinct as well as the volunteers from the Williamsburg Safety Patrol (WSPU), for their assistance with making today’s distribution a success.”

“The Passover Haggadah teaches us to ‘let all who are hungry come to our table,”’ said Met Council CEO and Executive Director David M. Frankel. “With one in four Jewish New Yorkers struggling to feed their families kosher and nutritious foods, Met Council’s extraordinary staff works every day with our Jewish Community Council network — located on the front lines in all five boroughs — and City and State agency partners to provide dignified solutions to hunger. The 2.2 million pounds of food and $430,000 in food cards we distribute prior to Pesach will enable our clients to observe the holiday with a traditional and nutritious meal that otherwise would have been price prohibitive.”

 

“We thank Rabbi Niederman and the UJO of Williamsburg for their tireless efforts to provide for New Yorkers in need, and for all they did to make today's food distribution such a great success," Mr. Frankel concluded.

Cars Driving Thru and Emerging the Line Filled Up

With Assemblymen Lentol and Hikind, and Mr. Eric Munson of Met Council

Products Lined out in the Warehouse

 

 

Borough President Eric Adams Unloads Products into a Car

Councilman Rafael Espinal Unloads Products into a Car

Councilman Steve Levin Borough Unloads Products into a Car

Public Advocate Tish James Unloads Products into a Car

Councilwoman Laurie Cumbo Unloads Product to a Minivan



Volunteers for Shomrim and others assisting for the distribution, with Boro President Eric Adams, Councilman Steve Levin, Captain Peter Fiorillo of the 88^th precinct, Rabbi Niederman Pinny Ringel, senior member of the Mayor’s Community Assistance unit, District Leader Nick Rizzo, and others

Brooklyn District Attorney Ken Thompson unloads distributed products, with Councilmember Laurie Cumbo applauding

With Assemblyman Joe Lentol, District Attorney Ken Thompson, and Assemblyman Dov Hikind

Public Advocate Tish James and District Attorney Ken Thompson with Mark Agger, of Agger Fish, who made available his warehouse to serve as the distribution hub




 

Statement by Rabbi Niederman on City's Ending its Cosnent Form Requirement for Metzitzah B'peh

“I’m thankful to Mayor de Blasio and his entire administration, specifically Deputy Mayor Lilliam Barrios-Paoli, the Mayor’s senior aide Avi Fink and the Department of Health, for doing what it is right, eliminating this Consent Form, which was intrusive and violated our freedom of religion and speech,” said Rabbi David Niederman.

 

"From day one, Mayor de Blasio showed an eagerness to work with all communities towards fair policies that will deliver the best results for the entire city. Today’s action is a result of that noble vision and hard work. We are profoundly thankful to the mayor for that, and we are thanking Hashem that our religious freedom prevailed. Today's action rebuilds the trust necessary to work together for the safety of all. It's a victory for religious freedom and a victory for public policy."

At the meeting today with Deputy Mayor Lilliam Barrios-Paoli

December 19, 2014: Department of Health Alert Williamsburg Schools to Shigella Outbreak at Meeting Arranged by UJO and Councilman Levin

The December 19 Column reported on a meeting arranged by UJO and Councilman Levin with the Department of Health and Representatives of Williamsburg Schools to discuss a recent Shigella outbreak.

At the meeting, held at the conference room of Pesach Tikva, Department Officials reported on the newest outbreaks, and relayed important information how the schools, parents and the community can help stem it. The article had important information about the virus, recent outbreaks, and measure to stop it from spreading further. Participants also heard from Dr. Dick, one of the top physicians in the neighborhood. Mr. Pinny Ringel, of the Mayor's Community Assistance Unit, also participated and assisted in following up on combating the outbreak.

The Department officials distributed pamphlets encouraging proper hand-washing, and called schools to assure that children with symptoms are kept home until they symptoms pass. They also discouraged the use of antibiotics for the virus, except in extreme cases.

 

Dr. Balter of the Department of Health shares tips on combating the outbreak

 

Yiddish hand-washing flyers, produced by the Department in conjunction with the UJO during an outbreak over six years ago for the observant community, was distributed to the schools 

 

December 19, 2014, Column: Shigella Outbreak Meeting by United Jewish Column

December 12, 2014 (3): DOT Meeting Re Traffic Improvements on Wallabout Street

The third item of that week announced a DOT meeting regarding the traffic improvements on Wallabout Street to take place the following Tuesday at the Tezlim Yeshiva at  Middleton-Wallabout Street. intersection.

The meeting was arranged by the UJO, in conjunction with Assemblyman Lentol and Councilman Levin to give an opportunity for residents and business owners on Wallabout Street and Flushing Avenues to review and comment on proposed changes to their streets. DOT hopes to implement changes within four months.

For an earlier article on the issue, visit the following link: http://ujocolumn.blogspot.com/2014/06/june-13-2014-column-second-chance-for.html

 

December 12, 2014: TLC Waives Unjust Summons; Social Security Award Letters; DOT Wallabout Meeting by United Jewish Column

December 12, 2014 (2): Important to Keep Social Security and SSI Award Letters for Proof of Income

The second item in the December 12 column, (p.42 on the bottom) alerted Social Security and SSI recipients to store in a safe and easy to locate place their Award Letters mailed to them during the end of the year. One is required to Present these Letters when Applying for Various Government Assistance Programs, as it required for Holocaust Survivors applying for Claims Conference services.


The UJO encourages senior clients with active files at the UJO to bring in a copy of the Award Letter so it can be properly recorded.

December 12, 2014: TLC Waives Unjust Summons; Social Security Award Letters; DOT Wallabout Meeting by United Jewish Column

UJO Honored Today Public Advocate Tish James for being the “People’s Advocate”

Rabbi David Niederman and Mr. Paulino Rodriguez Thanked her Intervening When TLC Impounded a Vehicle and Ticketed Mr. Rodriguez Unjustly

 

Williamsburg – At a meeting today with Williamsburg Community leaders at the United Jewish Organizations of Williamsburg and North Brooklyn, Public Advocate Letitia James was hailed and recognized for her tireless advocacy on behalf of the city, and for each and every individual citizen.

Her role, as the people’s lawyer, was demonstrated publicly when an employee in the area, Mr. Paulino Rodriguez, had his vehicle unjustly impounded and was ticketed for $2,000 for erroneously being accused of driving an illegal taxi. After PA James promptly intervened, throughout a weekend, the ticket was immediately nullified and the vehicle was returned.

Today, the Public Advocate visited the Bais Rachel School in the area, and then met the UJO and community leadership. During that meeting, she was presented a plaque by Mr. Rodriguez and Rabbi David Niederman, UJO Executive Director, for her assistance in rectifying the injustice and assuring that Mr. Rodriguez, a hard-working individual, isn’t unjustly fined.

 

Rabbi David Niederman and Mr. Rodriguez presenting the plaque to Public Advocate James

 

The plaque states as follows:              

“On behalf of the Williamsburg Community, we present our recognition and appreciation to The Honorable Letitia “Tish” James, Public Advocate, City of New York, for her tireless advocacy for the residents of this city, our community and the neighborhood for decades.”

“We are especially heartened by her personal dedication to each and every individual, which was demonstrated in her successful advocacy for the dismissal of the unjust ticket and the seizure of the car of a neighborhood business vehicle on December 4, 2014.

“The citizens of the greatest city of the world are fortunate to have PA James as their advocate, and may she continue to succeed as the people’s advocate and in all her endeavors.

“Presented on February 18, 2015, by the, UJO of Williamsburg and North Brooklyn Board of Directors.”

Background: http://newyork.cbslocal.com/2014/12/09/tlc-apologizes-for-seizing-brooklyn-fruit-store-workers-vehicle-calling-it-illegal-taxi/

http://ujocolumn.blogspot.com/2015/01/december-12-2014-tlc-cancels-unjust.html

 

 

December 12, 2014: TLC Cancels Unjust Summons and Automobile Seizure of Williamsburg Supermarket Employee

After Interventions: TLC Cancels Ticket and Seizure of Automobile of Williamsburg Grocery Employee

Subheading: UJO Intervened to Cancel Ticket; Thanks Public Advocate Letitia James for Delving into the Case During a Weekend and for Bringing a Quick Resolution; Assemblyman Dov Hikind Thanks TLC for Quickly Solving Such Unjust Cases Since his Discussion with Them After Ticketing a Chesed Driver

The episode unfolded Thursday, December 4, 2014, when Paulino Rodriguez, an employee of All Fresh Supermarket in Williamsburg, accompanied his boss Mayer Kohn to purchase fruit at a nearby wholesale market. Mr. Rodriguez left the vehicle to make the purchase, while Mr. Kohn remained inside. As the men left the market, they were stopped by Taxi and Limousine Commission (TLC) agents who asked them to step out of the car. The TLC inspectors then performed a search of the vehicle, and issued Mr. Rodriguez a $2,000 summons for operation of an illegal taxi, to the protests of both men.

TLC agents informed Mr. Rodriguez that pleading guilty during the interaction would reduce the fine to $1,000, however he opted to appeal the decision.
On Friday, Mr. Kohn contacted the UJO, and Rabbi Niederman started to intervene on his behalf. In the meantime, the incident caught media attention. When learning of this unjustified ticket, Public Advocate Letitia James started to intervene to have it canceled. On Monday, the TLC withdrew the summons issued to him, and released his vehicle at no expense to either Mr. Rodriguez or Mr. Kohn.

 

"My office was able to successfully assist Mr. Rodriguez, but there are other drivers out there who were unfairly forced to pay exhorbitant fines,” said New York City Public Advocate Letitia James. “Our city cannot target certain groups for unwarranted violations. My office will stand with erroneously-fined drivers, and I hope that TLC will instruct their agents to act ethically as they perform their duties.”

Rabbi David Niederman, UJO Executive Director, said: "Public Advocate James is a dedicated advocate for New Yorker who are being unjustly impacted by agencies. Her energy and dedication was exhibited once again, when during a weekend, upon learning of the unjust action, she delved in to intervene and fight for two individuals, and she managed to bring upon immediate results. I thank here for resolving the case, and for being always on-call. Whenever her assistance is needed, her office is ready to act with passion and speed, even when all other government offices are closed."

This incident reminded of a similar mistake in June, that resulted in the impounding of a Chesed car taking patients to hospital treatments. Following that incident, Assemblyman Hikind convened meeting with TLC officials in his office, along with representatives of Chesed, Misaskim and the Shomrim in an effort to eliminate or at least minimize such occurrences in the future.

Ray Scanlon, Bella Vais and Allan Fromberg of the TLC agreed that new protocols were called for, including  identification cards to be issued for workers from Chesed and similar organizations to better identify themselves as charity volunteers, phone numbers supplied to the TLC allowing officers to contact charity group dispatchers to ascertain that a driver is legitimate, and sensitivity training for TLC officers. Assemblyman Hikind also created and delivered sensitivity training to TLC officers.

Assemblyman Dov Hikind now lauded the TLC for admitting and reversing their mistake in Williamsburg: “Everyone makes mistakes... Sometimes the hardest part is owning up to the mistake. But the TLC has shown, once again, that when they do make a mistake, they are quick to correct it and do the right thing.” Hikind Concluded his statement by saying that: "I will continue to work with the TLC to make certain that these types of unfortunate incidents do not occur.".

December 12, 2014: TLC Waives Unjust Summons; Social Security Award Letters; DOT Wallabout Meeting

December 5, 2014 (2): Councilman Chaim Deutsch's Legislation Would Suspend Parking Regulations in the Vicinity of Movie Shoots

The second item of the December 5th column reported on Councilman Chaim Deutsch's legislation to suspend parking regulations in the vicinity of parking shoots. It aims to ease on neighboring residents the burdens caused by movie shoots - in street closures for traffic and parking - by making available additionally parking spots and easing regulations in the surrounding streets.

 

"I thank Chaim for working on this law, to ensure that areas aren't burdened by film recordings, and they are compensated with alternate locations that are opened for parking. This law is only fair for local residents, and we hope that it will pass in city council and it will be enacted into law," said Rabbi David Niederman.

 

December 5, 2014: Alert to Non-Profits to Submit Annual Property Tax Exemption Forms by United Jewish Column

December 5, 2014: Alert to Non-Profits to Submit Annual Property Tax Exemption Forms

The December 5 Column's firs item reminded Non Profits that they have to renew their property exemption by returning the form that the city mailed to them during the summer. The form can also be completed online. It has to be filed before the deadline, of July 5, 2015.

The article alerted communal and charity institutions not to delay the submittal of the form, in order not to find themselves without the exemption, which will add a considerable burden to their strained budget.

 

December 5, 2014: Alert to Non-Profits to Submit Annual Property Tax Exemption Forms

November 28, 2014: UJO Offers New House Keeping, Homer Care, Emergency Assistance Slots for Holocaust Survivors

The November 28, 2014 column, announced that thanks to funding through the Claims Conference, the UJO Offers New House Keeping, Homer Care, Emergency Assistance Slots for Holocaust Survivors.

The article also reported on new guidelines expanding the areas where residents during the war years qualify for this special assistance. It details the countries where Williamsburg residents hails from, providing information on the new criteria for survivors from each country, to determine if they qualify for this assistance. It also included a map of the areas that are now recognized that Jews living there were suffering from the Nazi regime and qualify for the special assistance programs.

To enroll in the program and for more information who qualifies and the services, please contact UJO Senior Services at 718.643.9700.

 

November 28, 2014: UJO Offers New House Keeping, Homer Care, Emergency Assistance Slots for Holocaust Survi...

November 21, 2014: Councilman Levin Encourages Parents in Need for Child Care to Call 311

The November 21 Column reported on a conference call that Councilman Levin had  with twenty School Administrators and the UJO, where he asked them to get out the message that parents in need for Child Care can call 311 and ask for a form to be added to the Child Care waiting list.

The Councilman is working to ensure that parents who are eligible for especially-funded vouchers are aware of it, and that all eligible children receive the voucher.

The article report of the progress in distributing the 3,500 vouchers, and provided a phone number and email where parents - with children on the waiting list who have reason to believe that they may have missed the notice that they are eligible for the new vouchers - should contact to check the status and updated their mailing address.

 

"The Williamsburg Community is especially privileged to be represented by our dedicated Councilman Steve Levin," said Rabbi David Niederman, UJO Executive Director. "Not only did he spearhead the effort to add to this important program, critical to thousands of children, and he secured a couple of thousands additional vouchers - for the first time in many years - but he doesn't rest, but is working to ensure that the funding is rightly allocated, and that it reaches parents and children who are entitled to it. We are tremendously thankful to him for this dedicated, unparalleled work."

 

November 21, 2014: Councilman Levin Encourages Parents in Need for Child Care to Call 311 to be Added to th...

November 14, 2014: HEAP Program Starting on Monday: Representatives Stationed at the UJO to Enroll in the Program

The November 14, 2014, column informed the public that the Home Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP) is starting to accept applications on Monday. As in the past years, representatives of the program will be stationed at the UJO to accept applications.

The article lists the guidelines to qualify for HEAP, and the documents that one has to present when applying.

 

November 14, 2014: HEAP Program Starting on Monday: Representatives to Accept Applications at the UJO

November 7, 2014: UJO Congratulates Chief Leonard for being Appointed to Chief of Department

This week's column (in the item on the bottom of page 24 and continued on page 70,) also congratulated Chief James Leonard, formerly FDNY chief in Brooklyn, for being promoted as Chief of the Department. The UJO and other community leaders attended his swearing-in ceremony. Accompanying photos show Rabbi Niederman with the Chief at the ceremony; and the retiring Chief Kilduff with Yanky Itzkowitz and Simcha Bernath, of Shomrim Williamsburg and Borough Park, and Bernard Gipps of Hatzalah.

"We are very happy to see Chief Leonard rising to become the Chief of Department. It's a very fitting appointment, and he's suited to work with Commissioner Nigro, whom with got to know up-close when he was in Williamsburg before the summer. We wish them success to continue enhancing the safety of the entire city and rescue lives," said Rabbi David Niederman.

 

November 7, 2014: UJO Assists Hundreds of Seniors During Medicare Part D Open Enrollment by United Jewish Column

November 7, 2014: UJO Assists in Joining Health Care Plan During Open Enrollment Season

The open enrollment for the Affordable Health Care plans starts next week. This week's column informed readers about the opportunity to sign up for Marketplace health plans. UJO staffers are will assist clients to review the various plans available, if the qualify for subsidized insurance, and will sign them up for health care plans .

 

The Open Enrollment season is from November 15, 2015 till February 15, 2015. To schedule an appointment with the UJO for assistance with choosing and signing up for a plan, please call 718.643.9700 extensions 202, 212, 214 or 218.

  

November 7, 2014: UJO Assists Hundreds of Seniors During Medicare Part D Open Enrollment by United Jewish Column

November 7, 2014: UJO Assists Hundreds of Seniors During Medicare Part D Open Enrollment

UJO Senior Services staff assisted hundreds of seniors - during the annual Open Enrollment period, between October 15 to December 7 - to find the best plan for their medical needs.

Seniors interested in an appointment to review their options, can call the UJO Senior Services staff at 718.643.9700 Extensions 202 and 210.

 

November 7, 2014: UJO Assists Hundreds of Seniors During Medicare Part D Open Enrollment

October 31, 2014: UJO Coordinates with the NYC Department of Health to Inform the Community on Ebola

The bottom item on page 12 reported on coordination between the UJO and NYC Department of Health (NYC DOHMH) to dispel misinformation after the reports that an Ebola patient spent time in Williamsburg. After the reports went out of a confirmed case of a person who was in Williamsburg, the UJO contacted the DOHMH, and its leaders quickly provided information, pointing out that

the main concern of shedding the virus is when a patient feels terribly sick. It is only then that the virus can be transmitted through bodily fluids.

 

The UJO publicized the information. It thanked the department for the vital and timely details to prevent unnecessary panic and to keep the public informed.

 

October 31, 2014: Governor Cuomo Visits Satmar Grand Rabbi by United Jewish Column

October 31, 2014: Governor Cuomo Visits Satmar Grand Rabbi; Meets with Williamsburg Community Leaders

Der Yid issue of October 31 had a reported with photos of a visit by Governor Cuomo with the Satmar Rebbe at his house in Williamsburg, where he met the leaders of various Williamsburg congregations and educational institutions. Rabbi Niederman, UJO Executive Director, welcomed the Governor, and thanked him for his achievements. He discussed various issues of interest to the community. The Governor received a warm blessing from the Rebbe for success in leading the state.

The article is accompanied by a photos showing Rabbi Niederman welcoming the Governor to the Rebbe's house, and the Governor, before he enters his motorcade, speaking to the Rebbe's secretary, Rabbi Moshe Friedman.

 

 

October 31, 2014: Governor Cuomo Visits Satmar Grand Rabbi