On the opening day of New York State’s legislative session, newly elected Assemblyman Aron Wieder of the 97th District was officially sworn into office, marking the beginning of his term as a representative for Rockland County. Following the swearing-in, Wieder embraced the opportunity to connect with fellow lawmakers on the Assembly floor, fostering relationships across party lines. During his first walk around the chamber, Wieder struck up a conversation with Republican Assemblyman Scott Bendett, who introduced himself with a touch of humor as a “Jewbilly,” describing himself as a Jewish hillbilly living in the countryside. The friendly exchange quickly evolved into a deeper discussion about Jewish traditions.

YWN regrets to inform you of the Petira of the Viznitzer Rebbetzin of Monsey, Rebbetzin Miriam Hager A”H, at the age of 72. She was Niftar on Wednesday morning at Mount Sinai Hospital. Rebbetzin Hager A”H, a pillar of the Monsey community, was the daughter of Harav Eluzer Meisels of Uhel ZT”L. She was part of a distinguished family, with three brothers serving as Admorim and Rabbonim, and two sisters as respected Rebbetzins. Despite battling multiple sclerosis for more than 25 years, Rebbetzin Hager exemplified unwavering devotion and strength. She attended shul and family simchas with remarkable Mesiras Nefesh, inspiring countless individuals with her resilience and faith. The Rebbetzin leaves behind a legacy of dedication to her family and community.

On Monday evening, Aron Wieder was officially sworn in as a New York State Assemblyman during a ceremony held at Rockland Community College. The event drew a large crowd of elected officials, dignitaries, community leaders, family members, and local residents who came to celebrate this significant milestone. Rockland County District Attorney and former judge Tom Walsh administered the oath of office, marking the beginning of Wieder’s tenure as a representative in the state legislature. The ceremony, emceed by David Greenfield, CEO of Met Council and a former elected official, was a celebration of Wieder’s dedication to public service.

Early Sunday morning, Chaverim of Rockland’s highly trained Search & Rescue teams sprang into action after receiving an urgent call about an injured hiker at Harriman State Park. The hiker had slipped on icy terrain, fracturing an ankle and enduring significant pain while stranded on a sheet of ice for an extended period. NYS Forest Rangers and NYS Park Police were promptly notified and joined the operation. Upon arrival, the Chaverim teams demonstrated their expertise, quickly stabilizing the hiker’s injury and providing necessary warmth to counter the freezing conditions. Using a specialized hiking stretcher, they carefully secured the hiker for transport out of the rugged terrain.

The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) has released its preliminary findings on the December 12th plane crash that resulted in the tragic death of Monsey resident Yankel Friedman z”l, and injuries to the pilot. The small plane, which took off from Linden Airport in New Jersey at 6:09 p.m., was bound for Albany, New York. However, at 6:26 p.m., one of the pilots reported engine trouble and requested to divert to Westchester County Airport. Moments later, the pilot indicated the engine appeared to recover after switching fuel tanks. Despite this, at 6:42 p.m., the pilot again reported engine failure and aimed for runway 16 at Westchester. Surveillance footage captured the plane making a steep turn over Interstate 684, climbing briefly, then descending rapidly.

Chaverim of Rockland, has broken its own record by responding to an astonishing 64,135 calls throughout the year 2024. Chaverim of Rockland, an essential lifeline for residents in the area, boasts an impressive team of 180 dedicated volunteers who tirelessly respond to emergency calls 24 hours a day. Furthermore, the organization’s operations are made possible by an additional 30 skilled dispatchers who ensure that assistance is just a call away, covering shifts around the clock. In comparison to the previous year, 2023, when Chaverim of Rockland responded to a still-impressive 53.003 calls, this year’s total of 64,135 marks a substantial increase of 11,132 calls.

On the fourth day of Chanukah, the Monsey community gathered for a monumental and spiritually uplifting event at Bais Medrash Ohr Chaim (Scheiner’s Shul). The occasion marked the joyous welcoming of two new Sifrei Torah into the shul’s premises. This event was dedicated לעילוי נשמת the esteemed Rebbetzin Zipporah Malka A”H, the grandmother of Philanthropist Reb Lazer Scheiner, as well as Reb Tzvi HaKohen Kogan HY”D, the Chabad Shlaich tragically kidnapped and murdered in Dubai while spreading the light of Torah and mitzvos. The event served as a poignant tribute, ensuring their legacies continue to inspire the community and beyond.

A pedestrian was struck by a vehicle earlier at Shoppers Haven on Main Street, Hatzoloh EMS, and Ramapo Police were on the scene. Injuries were reported.

GOP New York Rep. Mike Lawler, known for his sharp critiques of state Democrats, recently hinted at a possible run for governor during his annual “Festivus” airing of grievances. The Hudson Valley congressman used the occasion to skewer Governor Kathy Hochul and her administration’s policies while suggesting he might be the one to challenge her in 2026. “No doubt she’s going to face a real challenge in 2026. I wonder who could beat her. Hmm. I might know a guy,” Lawler said with a wink in the video, leaving little doubt about his aspirations. “Anyway, that’s a video for another day.” Lawler didn’t hold back in his critique of Hochul, blasting her for increasing state spending by more than $50 billion in under four years and allocating significant funds to support migrants.

As Monsey Scoop reported,  New Square Mayor Izzy Spitzer recently traveled to Washington, D.C., to meet with House Speaker Mike Johnson and Congressman Mike Lawler. During their meeting, Mayor Spitzer extended a personal invitation to Speaker Johnson on behalf of the Skvere Rebbe to attend the wedding of the Rebbe’s grandchildren. Although Speaker Johnson could not attend the wedding due to Congress being in session, he expressed his warm regards through a heartfelt letter. The letter was delivered to the Rebbe during the wedding by Rafi Silberberg, Congressman Mike Lawler’s district director. In his message, Speaker Johnson conveyed his congratulations and admiration for the Skverer Rebbe’s leadership. He wrote, “Mazal Tov on the joyous occasion of your grandchildren’s wedding!