Search Results for “hikind” – Page 3

SHOCK VIDEO: Thuggish Hikind Supporters Terrorize & Assault Yeger Volunteers

November 6, 2017 11:30 am 15 Comments

(VIDEO IN EXTENDED ARTICLE) In shocking video footage obtained by YWN, Yoni Hikind “volunteers” can be seen Saturday Night (Motzei Shabbos) screeching behind a truck that was emblazoned with Kalman Yeger for City Council logo and snatching the banner off the truck. These thugs wore masks and sprayed a fire extinguisher so that no one would see them clearly while they ran off into the night. In a separate incident that evening Yoni Hikind “volunteers” surrounded a Kalman Yeger volunteer who was posting signs on walls and they assaulted him. Videos of the incidents are below. Several sources have confirmed that the 66th Police Precinct is investigating these criminal acts involving Yoni Hikind’s “volunteers” as the shocking campaign comes to a close. Yoni Hikind’s campaign’s seems to be getting increasingly desperate after the last 48 hours when multiple independent analysts including the New York Daily News have deemed him unfit for office and have called his campaign pure nepotism as a result of his father’s push to get him elected. Polls open at 6AM on Tuesday in New York City for the hotly contested Council seat. See these astonishing videos below! (Charles Gross – YWN)

Daily News Slams Yoni Hikind As Unqualified – Urges Vote for Kalman Yeger

November 5, 2017 11:30 am 18 Comments

Today’s New York Daily News slammed Yoni Hikind, the son of Assemblyman Dov Hikind, for his lack of knowledge regarding even the most basic of issues relating to New York City government. After the Daily News interviewed Yoni they came to the conclusion that Assemblyman Hikind’s support for his son Yoni is “rotten nepotisim” and they went on the state that Yoni could not asnwer simple questions and was “way, way, way out of his depth.” They urged all voters to vote for “pragmatic” Kalman Yeger for City Council in Tuesday’s race to replace Councilman David Greenfield. Yeger is supported by Councilman David Greenfield and the leading rabbonim, askonim and mosdos torah. Here’s the relevant portion of the New York Daily News editorial in today’s newspaper. “Yoni Hikind, running on the “Our Neighborhood” party line, is Yeger’s opposition. Hikind is the son of Assemblyman Dov Hikind; Dov poured government money into a group that kept Yoni employed as a youth counselor. And that’s not even what disqualifies Yoni. The guy is way, way, way out of his depth. In an interview with the Daily News Editorial Board, the social worker by trade whiffed at at softball question about the mayor’s ThriveNYC mental health program. (“I don’t know. How do you think we’re doing?”) Asked how he’d handle a swelling city budget, he said: “I’m not in a position to make that evaluation right now.” Asked why he objects to a constitutional convention, he replied: “It’s about who gets appointed.” (Delegates would be elected.) Pragmatic, with-it Kalman Yeger is miles better. Vote for him.” (YWN Desk – NYC)

Yeshiva Leaders Concerned As Yoni Hikind Slams Yeshivas

November 1, 2017 6:00 pm 9 Comments

On three different instances during the Hamodia debate this past Sunday, Yoni Hikind bashed yeshivas in an apparent bid to secure the “anti-establishment” vote. First on the issue of TAP, the Tuition Assistance Program that was secured by Satmar mosdos along with Agudas Yisroel of America several years ago for yeshiva gedolas (Jewish undergraduate schools), Yoni asserted that he is “hearing from parents” that they believed that yeshivas were misappropriating the money. “This is something that has to change,” Yoni yelled at the Hamodia debate, saying that he was demanding answers from yeshiva administrators. After Kalman Yeger staunchly defended the prerogative of yeshivas to teach Limuedei Kodesh, Yeger’s response to the question of whether the government should have the right to dictate the religious and secular curriculum for yeshivas: “emphatically no.” Said Yeger: “I don’t want any outside group dictating to us what we should teach.” Yoni Hikind responded to Yeger’s defense of yeshivas by mocking him, “I think it is very nice to say the right things,” Yoni said and then went on to slam Yeger for defending the yeshivas. Then in a powerful moment of questioning by Hamodia’s Yochonon Donn on whether the controversial Markey Bill should pass, Yoni Hikind declared that he would not answer the question. This troubled many in the room who booed Hikind at the end that he would support legislation that in Yeger’s word would “bankrupt yeshivas.” Yoni Hikind has a complicated relationship with yeshivas. Yoni has stated on the radio that he didn’t have a great yeshiva experience and explained about himself: “I went through some time where I was questioning some things and yiddishkeit.” Yoni Hikind the son of current Assemblyman Dov Hikind, lives at home with his parents. One yeshiva administrator told YWN, “I think Yoni has good intentions. However, his lack of experience hurts him. It’s not easy running a yeshiva and keeping it affordable for parents in our community.” Another adminstrator told YWN, “I’m alarmed that we could have a politician representing the Heimishe community who would allow government to regulate our yeshivas. The fact is that Yoni is single and doesn’t pay tuition. That’s why he doesn’t appreciate how important it is for parents to choose the yeshiva that best fits their family’s hashkafah.” Both administrators insisted on anonymity out of fear of retaliation from Yoni’s father – Assemblyman Dov Hikind. Earlier this week, Hikind publicly said at the FJCC forum in Flatbush that he might release audio or video conversations of community leaders having compromising conversations. The veiled threats are keeping the conversations about Yoni off the record – for now. (Charles Gross – YWN)

Photo Essay: Kalman Yeger And Yoni Hikind CD44 City Council Candidates Visiting The Mefoar Headquarters In Boro Park (Photos by JDN)

November 1, 2017 1:08 pm No Comments

Assemblyman Dov Hikind Secures $1 Million State Grant To Hatzolah For Communications System

October 31, 2017 10:06 am 2 Comments

Thanks to the efforts of NYS Assemblyman Dov Hikind (D-Brooklyn), Hatzoloh will now be able to rescue more people than ever. Hikind has allocated $1 million in State funding to New York’s Hatzoloh – the largest volunteer ambulance service in the United States. The State grant will be used to bring Hatzoloh desperately needed upgrades to its communications system, which is vital to dispatching ambulances and saving lives. Currently, the volunteer organization’s primary operating territory encompasses all five Boroughs of New York, Nassau County, Sullivan County, and parts of Ulster County, while paramedic services are also licensed in Rockland and Orange Counties. Hatzoloh’s current radio system consists of 23 radio towers but dispatching depends on point-to-point communications. This system does not allow Hatzoloh to activate more than one tower at a time. Use of single towers is not always effective in dense areas and the organization has heard complaints of “my radio did not receive the call.” The $1 million from New York State that Hikind has allocated will bring Hatzoloh a new state-of-the-art communications system that eliminates communications “dead spots” and allows for swifter ambulance and volunteer dispatching. In short, the money will be used to save more lives. “I don’t think I’ve ever been prouder to help any single organization than I am today helping Hatzoloh,” said Assemblyman Hikind. “I have always had the greatest respect for our wonderful Hatzoloh volunteers, as I think everyone in our community does. Who doesn’t have Hatzoloh’s number next to their phone? Who doesn’t know someone who was rescued from a sudden injury or illness by these selfless volunteers? Hatzoloh saves countless lives every single day, 24/7, and I am thrilled and relieved that this money will allow them to do even swifter work and help more people. “We are here to make a difference and Hatzoloh makes a difference every day,” said Hikind. “G-d bless this outstanding organization and their extraordinary volunteers.” (YWN Desk – NYC)

Photo Essay: Kalman Yeger, Yoni Hikind, And Heshy Tischler At Sunday Night’s Debate Hosted By Hamodia (Photos By YWN)

October 30, 2017 7:15 pm No Comments

WATCH: Full Hamodia-Hosted Yeger, Hikind, Tischler Debate In 360 Degrees!

October 30, 2017 5:00 pm No Comments

If you were not able to be there in person, this is the next best thing if you want to watch the city council candidates for the NYC 44th district Kalman Yeger, Heshy Tischler, and Yoni Hikind debate at the Hamodia debate at Bais Yaakov of Boro Park on October 29, 2017. 360 VIEWING INSTRUCTIONS: Mobile/Tablet: Us your finger to drag the video in the desired direction. On later models, move the device in the direction that you want to view. VR Headset: Connect a compatible VR headset and move your head in the desired direction for an immersive view. Computer: Use the mouse to drag the video in the desired direction or click on the arrow symbol and use the arrow keys on the keyboard to adjust view.

WATCH: Dov Hikind Unloads At FJCC Event; Says Kalman Yeger Is Most Experienced To Be Councilman

October 29, 2017 8:45 pm 9 Comments

(VIDEO IN EXTENDED ARTICLE) Assemblyman Dov Hikind today threatened to release secret video and audio recordings of unspecified threats that he says Jewish leaders have made against each other in the Community. It’s not clear what Assemblyman Hikind is referring to but certainly seemed like mesirah from Hikind’s remarks. However, this video was taken at the FJCC breakfast only hours after Yoni Hikind leashed a blistering attack on Kalman’s family including his son who is in a local yeshiva. Hikind admits later in the video that if experience is the most important qualification, he would vote for Kalman Yeger over his son Yoni. Hikind went on to say that while Yoni may not be Heimish, neither was he and he expected to get re-elected next year. In the words of one person who attended the meeting’ “Dov’s speech was the most awkward 7 minutes in history. All the politicians were looking around shocked”. Watch the full clip below! (YWN Desk – NYC)

Swastika Letter-writer Suspect Arrested; Hikind Applauds Quick Police Work

October 15, 2017 10:00 am 1 Comment

NYS Assemblyman Dov Hikind (D-Brooklyn) says that a suspect has been arrested for sending threatening letters with swastikas to numerous merchants. The suspect, who was arrested late last night in New Jersey, allegedly sent out dozens of letters calling to “make America great again” telling business owners “Juden Raus [Jews out] – Negroes and Faggots Burn in Hell.” The suspect is being held on no bond. Hikind personally reported the first incident to police on October 1 after Weiss’ Bakery, his constituents in Boro Park, received the letter. “These racist, hateful letters frightened people,” said Hikind. “Someone had the audacity to use the U.S. Mail to threaten numerous innocent people, and to specifically target a neighborhood where numerous Holocaust survivors reside. I can’t adequately describe the pain and fear that this created for people. But now everyone can go into the holidays tonight with a sense of relief. “In this day and age, we must take threats very seriously. We must get villains and monsters who spread hate and menace innocent people off our streets and behind bars. I join our entire community and all decent New Yorkers in applauding our spectacular police department—truly New York’s finest—the NYPD’s 66th precinct, and especially Mark Molinari, head of the NYPD Hate Crimes Task Force, Lieutenant Robert Delaney of the NYPD Hate Crimes Task Force, and New Jersey’s law enforcement officers who participated in this investigation and arrest.” (YWN World Headquarters – NYC)

Hikind Praises Adventurers Amusement Park For Prompt Handling Of Anti-Semitic Incident

October 3, 2017 7:30 am No Comments

NYS Assemblyman Dov Hikind (D-Brooklyn) applauded the management of Adventurers Amusement Park in Brooklyn for their expeditious and proper handling of a recent anti-Semitic incident at the park. In September, the Assemblyman was called by a rabbi after students from a local yeshiva heard racial comments from several of the park’s employees. Hikind and a staff member immediately visited the park to investigate, then met with park’s manager Patricia Gallo. Gallo made it clear that she and the park’s owners were as angry and disappointed about the incident as our Assemblyman was. The employees were immediately fired and management apologized for the incident. “I am very impressed by Adventurers’ handling of this incident,” said Hikind. “While no employers can know what any of their employees are thinking when they hire them, they can certainly take definitive action when an employee is out of line, and that’s exactly what Adventurers did. Adventurers set an example for all employers. “On a personal note, I have been visiting Adventurers with my grandchildren for years. Their park is ideal and accommodating throughout the season and that’s why our community is comfortable sending our children there. I plan to visit with my grandchildren during Chol HaModed and feel even better about it now that I know we have friends in management who we can call any time we need them.” (YWN World Headquarters – NYC)

Hikind Shocked By Vermont Police Findings After Rabbi’s Family Cuffed At Gunpoint

October 1, 2017 4:00 pm 12 Comments

NYS Assemblyman Dov Hikind (D-Brooklyn) says he’s shocked that the Vermont State Police have found the terrifying arrest of Rabbi Berel Fink’s family in any way acceptable based on their report that showed no evidence of bias or profiling. “Who said this was a bias issue?” asked Hikind. “The police video makes it clear that this family was put through an ordeal that was terrifying beyond description. They were pulled over in the rain, reportedly for speeding, but were never issued a speeding ticket, which right away tells you something is odd. It’s also obvious that Rabbi Fink was not trying to elude the police—he was just looking for a safe place to pull over in the rain, and within minutes he did so. “I watched the video in shock. I could only imagine what this family was going through. Rabbi Fink was clearly confused but he wasn’t resisting the police—nevertheless, he was treated like a terrorist, told to lie on his face on the street and handcuffed at gunpoint in front of his family. And then his son, who was a passenger, was treated the same way. And then his wife! You can hear her crying—she is terrified. These people clearly posed no danger to anyone. “I object to these findings which exonerate this state trooper on the grounds that this was not a bias issue. Where was the sensitivity? The professionalism? Once this family was stopped, the trooper clearly saw what we all see—a frightened family who did not understand why they were being arrested. Rabbi Fink didn’t think he was speeding—no one in their right mind speeds past a police car on purpose. Once the police had run the plates and saw who they were dealing with, there was no need to take the matter any further. I can’t image this occurring in New York. Months later, this is an experience that has effected the lives on this family. It was just terrifying and so clearly unnecessary.” (YWN World Headquarters – NYC)

The Dov Hikind Show Is Back

September 28, 2017 12:45 pm No Comments

New York State Assemblyman Dov Hikind (D-Brookyn) is returning to the airwaves after nearly three years. The popular “Dov Hikind Show”—one of the most popular Jewish radio programs for two decades—will maintain its winning formula, never shying away from any topics. “I left the air because needed a break,” said Dov. “I was tired of giving up every single Saturday evening. It’s more than just an hour show—you have to really prepare… But I’ve rested long enough,” he says with a chuckle. The DOV HIKIND Show is a reflection of the charismatic elected official’s personality. “We’ll be talking about the things that matter, regardless of whether it’s in my own neighborhood or on the other side of the world,” Dov promises. “If something impacts our community, I’m on it.” The DOV HIKIND Show is now on every Tuesday night at 7pm on 620AM. Starting October 14, the show will also return Saturday nights at 11pm on 570AM. That’s two all-original shows each week! (YWN World Headquarters – NYC)

Hikind, Felder Save Yeshiva Of Hagon HaRav Yechezkel Roth From Foreclosure

September 26, 2017 2:30 pm No Comments

Thanks to colossal efforts by NYS Assemblyman Dov Hikind (D-Brooklyn) and NYS Senator Simcha Felder (D-Brooklyn), legislation was passed that rescued Yeshiva Shaare Torah from crippling debt. Today, the Karlsburger Rav, Rabbi Yechezkel Roth, publicly thanked Hikind and Felder for their years of hard work on behalf of the yeshiva and the many families that it serves. As soon as he became aware that Shaare Torah was facing insurmountable property tax issues, which he believed they should be exempt from, Assemblyman Hikind began seeking a solution for the yeshiva. After carefully analyzing the situation, Hikind sponsored a bill to authorize the yeshiva to file for an application for exemption from real property taxes for certain assessment rolls. Hikind’s bill essentially allowed New York City to accept a late application from the yeshiva for certain tax exemptions that dated as far back as 1992. This made it possible for New York City to forgive all outstanding back taxes, fines, penalties and interest which totaled more than $200K. After Hikind and Felder pushed the bill through both the Assembly and the Senate, Governor Cuomo signed off on the legislation. “This was more than two years of work but it was certainly worth it,” said Hikind. “Yeshiva Shaare Torah is a vital center of learning and a pillar of our community. With G-d’s help, I was gratified to resolve their problem and very pleased with this positive outcome. I want to thank my colleague Simcha Felder for sponsoring this bill in the Senate, as well the Governor for signing off on the legislation.” “Our yeshiva and our community cannot thank Assemblyman Hikind enough for how hard he works for all of us,” said Rabbi Roth. (YWN World Headquarters – NYC)

Hikind Thanks National Grid For Postponing Work Until After Holidays

September 15, 2017 9:15 am No Comments

NY State Assemblyman Dov Hikind (D-Brooklyn) praised National Grid for agreeing to his request to cease all planned work along Avenue M between East 3rd and Ocean Parkway until after the Jewish holidays. “Most people in our community have noticed the disruption on our streets due to work by National Grid,” said Hikind. “Of course, we all recognize that this work is absolutely necessary but it makes life a little more difficult. Consequently, I discussed the situation with National Grid and they were amenable. “No further planned work will occur from right before this coming Shabbos until after Simchas Torah. I want to thank National Grid for being sensitive to our community’s needs.” (YWN World Headquarters – NYC)

Following Hikind Pressure, Vermont Police Launch Investigation Into Gunpoint Arrest Of Hasidic Family

September 7, 2017 4:15 pm 8 Comments

NY State Assemblyman Dov Hikind (D-Brooklyn) said that the treatment of a Hasidic rabbi and his family from Boro Park by a Vermont State Trooper is being investigated by the Internal Affairs Department of the Vermont State Police. While traveling through Vermont on their way to New Hampshire, Rabbi Berl Fink and his family were handcuffed at gunpoint and terrorized by a State Trooper in what appears to be a bias incident. Assemblyman Hikind praised Vermont Governor Phil Scott and Colonel Matthew Birmingham, the Director of the Vermont State Police, for responding immediately to the Assemblyman’s call for an investigation. Rabbi Berl Fink, age 57, a noted scholar and author who resides in Brooklyn, and his wife Blimie Fink, a Brooklyn school principal, were traveling with their two children on Monday evening, August 7, when they were pulled over by a State Trooper. The officer pointed a gun at family members, including a minor, and proceeded to roughly handle and handcuff each family member in turn. Prior to being cuffed, Mrs. Fink had the good sense to call 911 to report what was occurring so other police officers soon arrived. After 20 minutes of being held, the officer changed his mind, apparently, and released the family, stating that he needed to respond to another, more urgent call. Mr. Fink was issued a summons for eluding a police officer. The Finks called the State Police the next day to lodge a complaint. They spoke with Sergeant Lyle Becker who told them the incident occurred because the trooper thought Mr. Fink was drunk and had been weaving between lanes, yet no breathalyzer test was administered at the scene. The Sergeant also told the Finks that they had been speeding, yet no speeding ticket was issued. “The Finks mode of dress made it clear that they were Hassidic Jews, a sight that may be uncommon in Vermont but one that is hardly a crime,” said Hikind. “It would be difficult to mistake the Fink family for people who might pose a danger to police officers, yet they were subjected to having a gun pointed at them, being handcuffed, terrorized and humiliated. This entire incident has left the Fink family traumatized and fearful of travel. I am appalled that any family would be treated like this when it is clearly apparent that they were not even suspected of criminal activity. “It was only this morning that I contacted Vermont Governor Phil Scott and the Vermont State Police to demand an investigation. Their immediate response shows that Vermont takes matters like these very seriously. On behalf of the Finks and our community, I am grateful to Governor Scott and Colonel Birmingham for their immediate response. I am eager to see the results of this investigation and will continue to monitor the situation carefully.” (YWN World Headquarters – NYC)

Hikind Mourns Gluck Family; Implores Community To Get Smoke Detectors After Tragic Fire

August 29, 2017 10:00 pm 2 Comments

NY State Assemblyman Dov Hikind is calling the fire that took the lives of Chaim and Faigy Gluck in Boro Park a tragedy that contains a wake-up call for the entire community. He explained that FDNY officials are now reporting that there were no smoke detectors in the house to warn of the flames that would soon spread and cause the heart-breaking tragedy. “Our entire community is in mourning for Chaim and Faigy Gluck,” said Assemblyman Hikind. “We experience a profound sense of loss when we lose a neighbor, a member of our community, and it’s even worse when it happens tragically. My thoughts and prayers are with their 19-year-old daughter who was miraculously rescued by our brave and wonderful firefighters. “But this tragedy should also serve as a wake-up call to everyone. It is too easy to become complacent and not take note of the dangers all around us. G-d runs the world, but we must also do everything in our power to avoid tragedies like these, and one of those things is having working smoke alarms. These inexpensive alarms are a must—and just having them isn’t sufficient. You must check them, make sure that they have batteries and are working. “I hope everyone will take the time to immediately review the state of their own homes. Look for where dangers may occur; look at appliances that may cause fires and where they are in relation to flammable objects. The fire department offers guidelines that are worth reviewing. No one ever thinks a tragedy will occur to them, but this is the time of year when we take stock of ourselves, so let’s take stock of our homes, too. Diligence saves lives.” (YWN World headquarters – NYC)

Hikind Praises DeBlasio Following Announcement That Nazi Collaborator Monument Petain Will Be Removed

August 16, 2017 9:45 pm 3 Comments

Assemblyman Dov Hikind (D-Brooklyn) had high praise for NYC Mayor Bill de Blasio following an announcement that New York City will be removing the monument to a Nazi collaborator Philippe Pétain. The mayor’s office Tweeted the following: “After the violent events in Charlottesville, New York City will conduct a 90-day review of all symbols of hate on city property. The commemoration for Nazi collaborator Philippe Pétain in the Canyon of Heroes will be one of the first we remove.” Assemblyman Hikind, who brought awareness of the Petain monument directly to the mayor, applauded the mayor’s actions. “We are confronted every day with bigotry and divisiveness,” said Hikind. “New Yorkers have an obligation to say, ‘Not in our city.’ It’s time to remove all of New York City’s monuments and markers that glorify bigotry and strengthen that which perpetuates these ignorant beliefs. I applaud our mayor, as I know all of New York will, for taking quick action on this important matter.” In May, Assemblyman Hikind turned attention on the markers commemorating French Vichy Leaders Marshal Philippe Pétain and Pierre Laval. The granite markers are located on Morris and Broadway in the Wall Street area’s “Canyon of Heroes.” Laval helped the Nazis arrest thousands of Jews for Deportation to their deaths. After the war, he was executed for his war crimes. Pétain’s anti-Semitic policies were even harsher than what the Germans had adopted. His policies banned Jews from various professions and activities, which eventually led to the deportation and murder of nearly 100,000 Jews, as well as Gypsies, homosexuals, and left-wing activists. Pétain was convicted of treason in 1945. He was sentenced to death by firing squad but France’s President Charles de Gaulle commuted the sentence to life imprisonment. The commemoration for Nazi collaborator Philippe Pétain in the Canyon of Heroes will be one of the first we remove. https://t.co/hAnGmkCdtg — Bill de Blasio (@NYCMayor) August 16, 2017 (YWN World Headquarters – NYC)

Hikind Says Hate Monuments Must Go! Calls On Mayor To Remove Statues, Markers Of Petain, Laval And Others Who Glorify Bigotry, Racism

August 16, 2017 7:45 pm 3 Comments

Assemblyman Dov Hikind (D-Brooklyn) is calling on NYC Mayor Bill de Blasio and City Hall to remove all symbols that glorify bigotry and racism from New York City property. Hikind said that New York City, the greatest city in the world, with the widest diversity, has an historical opportunity to set an example for the rest of the United States. “We are confronted every day with bigotry and divisiveness,” said Assemblyman Hikind. “New Yorkers have an obligation to say, ‘Not in our city.’ It’s time to remove all of New York City’s monuments and markers that glorify bigotry and strengthen that which perpetuates these ignorant beliefs.” “This has nothing to do with freedom of speech,” said Assemblyman Hikind. “Painful and obvious symbols of hate, such as statues and markers commemorating Nazi collaborators or proponents of slavery, are antithetical to everything our city stands for; statues and plaques to villains have no place on New York City public property. Our city cannot tacitly honor these objectionable figures nor tolerate monuments that hurt New Yorkers who arrived here, or whose ancestors arrived here, seeking freedom from prejudice and intolerance. Regardless of why certain statues and markers were placed here by previous city elders, we must make a loud and clear statement by doing the responsible thing. As such, I call upon Mayor Bill de Blasio, who has proven himself uniquely sensitive to these issues, to remove all monuments to bigotry from New York City.” In May, Assemblyman Hikind first brought attention to markers commemorating French Vichy Leaders Marshal Philippe Pétain and Pierre Laval. The granite markers are located on Morris and Broadway in the Wall Street area’s “Canyon of Heroes.” Laval helped the Nazis arrest thousands of Jews for Deportation to their deaths. Pétain’s anti-Semitic policies were even harsher than what the Germans had adopted. His policies banned Jews from various professions and activities, which eventually led to the deportation and murder of nearly 100,000 Jews, as well as Gypsies, homosexuals, and left-wing activists. Pétain was convicted of treason in 1945. He was sentenced to death by firing squad but France’s President Charles de Gaulle commuted the sentence to life imprisonment. Photo credit: Danielle Ziri, The Jerusalem Post (YWN World Headquarters – NYC)

PHOTOS: Hikind Working To Solve Cemetery Issues

July 31, 2017 7:00 pm No Comments

NY State Assemblyman Dov Hikind (D-Brooklyn) recently organized a meeting of experts to discuss cemetery issues that are impacting his constituents. The team included Richard Fishman, former Director of the New York State Division of Cemeteries—a top regulator of New York state’s not-for-profit cemeteries. Assemblyman Hikind was also joined by Rabbi Elchonon Zohn, Founding Director of the National Association of Chevra Kadisha; Chaim Reichberg, an expert in cemetery issues; Tuli Reiner and Ushi Schlesinger, both of Chesed Shel Emes; and Chesky Klein, an aide to Hikind who also volunteers with Chesed Shel Emes. “I was initially approached by Rabbi Zohn regarding issues at Cypress Hills Cemetery,” said Assemblyman Hikind. “I said as long as we’re discussing Cypress Hills, let’s put the key players together and discuss all related issues. The result was an excellent meeting that I believe will result in some substantial positive changes, including making Cypress Hills more attractive.” Located at 833 Jamaica Avenue in Brooklyn, Cypress Hills Cemetery was first developed in 1848, the year of the Gold Stampede to California. The cemetery was chartered by the State as a non-profit, non-sectarian, membership corporation. In the 1800s, most cemeteries were situated in churchyards and flat land devoid of picturesque landscape, but the founders of Cypress Hills were envisioning the cemetery of tomorrow. They searched for a site where richly wooded hills would enable them to attain the seclusion, privacy and pensive tranquility of the ideal “rural” cemetery. The non-denominational cemetery spans 225 acres and features two three-story mausoleums. The presence of Jewish and non-Jewish sections at the non-denominational Cypress Hills creates certain challenges that Hikind said the group is working to address. Hikind also praised the staff of Cypress Hills for working with the rabbis and his office towards everyone’s best interests. (YWN Headquarters – NYC)

Hikind Warns That Bicycles On Sidewalks Endanger Everyone

July 28, 2017 10:15 am 4 Comments

For the sake of everyone in the community, NYS Assemblyman Dov Hikind (D-Brooklyn) is asking residents to be mindful of the laws and safety guidelines regarding bicycles on sidewalks. A number of elderly community members have complained of near-misses from cyclists that could have resulted in serious injuries. “Getting hit by a bicycle can be a serious matter for anyone, but for an elderly person, the consequences are increased dramatically,” says Hikind. “I was recently visited by a constituent who was almost hit. She came to my office very shaken up and she told me, ‘If I’m hit by a bicycle, I’ll spend three months in the hospital.’ She was right. A broken hip or arm can have serious, life-changing consequences for older people. “Of course, we want our children to enjoy their bicycles so the key is to give them the tools—like helmets, as well as a horn or bell—and information necessary to protect others and themselves. It behooves all of us to have an awareness of New York City’s bicycle laws and safety guidelines.” In New York City, cyclists have all of the rights and are subject to all of the duties and regulations applicable to drivers of motor vehicles. Cyclists must: Ride in the street, not on the sidewalks (unless rider is age 12 or younger and the bicycle’s wheels are less than 26 inches in diameter). Ride with traffic, not against it. Stop at red lights and stop signs. Obey all traffic signals, signs and pavement markings, and exercise due care to avoid colliding with pedestrians, motor vehicles or other cyclists. Use a white headlight and a red taillight, as well as a bell or horn and reflectors regardless of where they are riding. Cyclists are also cautioned to: Ride in a straight line and do not weave in and out. Use your bell. Your bell alerts drivers, pedestrians and other cyclists to your presence, it is required by law. Don’t wear earphones. By law you may wear one earbud, but keeping your ears clear is a much safer choice. Wear a helmet. Helmets are required by law for children age 13 or younger and working cyclists, helmets are a good idea for cyclists of all ages. “Our community is all about family and caring for others,” said Hikind. “It is in this spirit that I ask all of our parents to share our City’s bicycle laws and safety tips with their children. The last thing any of us ever want to do is hurt another human being.” (YWN Headquarters- NYC)

Op-Ed By Dov Hikind: It Was Never About Metal Detectors

July 25, 2017 8:15 pm 2 Comments

It’s not about metal detectors. And how ridiculous that I should even have to say that. A child watching Sesame Street knows when things are upside down. Children learn the basics of gravity and even proxemics at a fairly young age. They understand that there’s a certain amount of space that one must place between themselves and, say, a fire… or a dog that’s baring its teeth. Sadly, most Israelis have these basics internalized as well, but they have been forced to live in a reality where many things are upside down. Case in point: The situation now facing Israel, its citizens, and the many people who visit there is so far removed from the recent installation of metal detectors at the entrance to the Temple Mount that it’s absurd to even suggest that this recent cause célèbre has any impact on what’s occurring in the Middle East. The metal detectors are merely the latest excuse. The Salomon family members were not butchered because of metal detectors. There were no metal detectors when the Fogel family was murdered in their beds in Itamar. There were no metal detectors when Hallel Yaffa, an innocent 13-year-old girl, was slaughtered in her bed in Kiryat Arba. The presence of metal detectors at the Temple Mount is just another excuse to shed blood. Why? Because Israel’s enemies live in a chasm of fake news and false motives. Metal detectors weren’t suddenly installed to insult anyone. They were installed because two Israeli policemen were murdered, shot in the back by assassins who ascended the Temple Mount ostensibly to pray. And then turned and fired. These metal detectors were recently installed to protect people—all people. So how does Mahmoud Abbas react? How does King Abdullah of Jordan react? Publicly, their reactions imply to their people—and to the rest of the world—that Israel, “the Zionist enemy,” has perpetrated the unthinkable upon the Muslim people. These Arab leaders have abandoned the avenue of civil discussions and diplomatic relations and instead opted to incite “days of rage.” Rage. That is the edict from the so-called moderate leaders of the Arab world. These are the men who say they want peace for their people, peace for the region. Hamas and their ilk, the overt terror organizations, make no secret of their means nor the ends they seek. By contrast, Abbas and the Jordanian King are more polished and, consequently, somewhat more dangerous. Why? Because they hold out the promise of peace; they proffer the gift of life without terror, which all Israelis and civilized peoples hope and pray for. For the small price of trust, they say, “we promise to bestow the precious gift of peace upon a generation weary of terror and war.” Timeo Danaos et dona ferentes. Beware of friends bearing gifts. Because with friends like these… [Dov Hikind is a NY State Assemblyman, a Democrat from Brooklyn]

U.S. Congressmen Smith And Zeldin Answer Hikind’s Call To Jettison New York’s Nazi

July 25, 2017 11:30 am No Comments

NY State Assembly Member Dov Hikind (D-Brooklyn) refuses to let New York’s Nazi Jakiw Palij live happily ever after in Queens. Now, thanks to Hikind’s tireless efforts, U.S. Congressmen Chris Smith (R-New Jersey) and Lee Zeldin (R-New York) are both looking into what it will take to finally deport the Nazi war criminal living in Queens. “The involvement of Representatives Smith and Zeldin, who I know personally and have worked with before, should be applauded by everyone,” said Hikind, the son of Holocaust survivors who has been pursuing Palij for more than a decade. “Both of these outstanding elected officials have proven themselves principled men who care about justice and know how to get things done. “The rights and freedoms we enjoy in America should not extend to those who facilitated the death of countless innocent people. Palij’s presence here mocks the memory of the millions who perished,” Hikind added. “There is no question of his guilt. It is imperative that someone responsible for Nazi atrocities be held accountable for his crimes, regardless of his age. I will never rest while a Nazi lives comfortably among us.” During World War II, Palij worked at the Trawniki training camp, where Nazi troops were trained to carry out the extermination of Polish Jews. Thousands of innocents were murdered there. Palij came to America claiming that he was a farmer and war refugee, concealing his work as a Nazi guard, and was granted citizenship in 1957. After his past became known, he was stripped of his U.S. citizenship. His deportation order was upheld by the courts in 2004 but as of today, Palij remains a resident of Queens. Last month, Hikind and his colleague Michael Simanowitz (D-Queens) led 85 members of the New York State Assembly, including Majority Leader Joseph D. Morelle, in urging U.S. Attorney General Jeff Sessions to finally deport Palij. The next day, the World Jewish Congress echoed Hikind, calling on the State Department to do its job. “The Attorney General has not replied, the State Department has not replied,” said Hikind. “In Queens, Jakiw Palij is laughing. He’s laughing because he has continued to evade justice for longer than most people have been alive. I’m hopeful that the involvement of these stellar Congressmen will bring the laughter to an end and peace to the souls of the thousands of victims.” (YWN Desk – NYC)

Hikind Exposes Sarsour And Her Phoney ‘Jewish Cemetery Employee/Advocate’

July 17, 2017 6:00 pm No Comments

NY State Assemblyman Dov Hikind (D-Brooklyn) says there’s something fishy about Linda Sarsour’s “Jewish Cemetery Advocate.” Sarsour gained headlines after boasting about raising big bucks for Jewish cemeteries, but when one of those cemeteries said they’d never seen a dime, Sarsour trotted out Jennifer Goodland. “Read this from Jennifer Goodland of Golden Hill Cemetery in Colorado…” Sarsour tweeted and posted on her Facebook as proof of her integrity. Christopher Mathias of the Huffington Post also tweeted Goodland’s letter and glibly asked, “Hi @HikindDov, any comment on this?” The letter from Goodland attacked the Algemeiner Journal, which had first claimed that Sarsour’s fundraiser on behalf of Jewish cemeteries was less than honest. Just one small issue: Goodland is NOT an employee of Golden Hill Cemetery in Colorado. On July 12, two of Hikind’s staff members spoke with Neal Price, executive director of Golden Hill. Price told both Yehudah Meth, Director of Communications, and Inna Vernikov, Esq. (Special Assistant to Hikind) that Goodland is not now and has never been an employee of the cemetery nor a spokesperson for Golden Hill. Price said he had only spoken with Goodland once when she called to “offer help.” He said he never heard of Goodland before then and that she was not officially involved with his cemetery in any official capacity, nor is she a cemetery spokesperson. Vernikov challenged Goodland on Facebook. On July 15, at 9:21pm, she wrote to Goodland, “I spoke to Neal Price myself. He barely knew who you were and didn’t understand where you came from…Neal did have serious questions about your involvement and about receiving the money. Bottom line is I care that the money goes to the cemetery. Is that happening?” Goodland replied, “Ask Neal. I never see any of it because this (was) my mitzvah.” She went on to admit, “I am neither with Celebrate Mercy nor with the Golden Hill checking account and thus perhaps you should go call your best bud Neal, ask him because he knows, and you two can have a little congratulatory session about acting this way toward a woman who was doing all of this as an act of CHARITY…I’m not your punching bag any more or Neal’s. You guys figure out who’s lying because now it’s all the cemetery has. Congrats.” “Not surprisingly, Sarsour’s pseudo Jewish Cemetery advocate sounds like quite a character,” said Hikind. “And Ms. Sarsour just might possibly be a liar who got caught. As I’ve said before, Sarsour is a fraud in every other capacity. One minute, she claims to be an advocate of non-violence, the next she’s glorifying terrorists. Is anyone really surprised by this latest episode? I’m sure now that she’s been exposed, Sarsour will make certain that dead Jews somewhere benefit from the missing money. After all, she’s never had an issue with dead Jews.” (YWN Headquarters – NYC)

Hikind To Sarsour: Where’s The Money? Cemetery Says $100k Never Reached Them

July 12, 2017 2:13 pm 1 Comment

Linda Sarsour gained headlines and sympathy after boasting about raising big bucks for Jewish cemeteries, but one of those cemeteries says they’ve never seen a dime. NY State Assemblyman Dov Hikind (D-Brooklyn), who brought attention to Sarsour’s ties with terrorists, called the news a shocking non-surprise. “Sarsour is a fraud,” said the Assemblyman. “She talks out of both sides of her mouth. One minute she’s claiming to be a disciple of the great Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., and the next she’s standing with a terrorist on stage at an event, and singing praises of that terrorist to an audience. I won’t be the least bit surprised to hear that her little Jewish cemetery publicity stunt wasn’t quite what she made it out to be.” Following up on Hikind’s suggestion that Sarsour’s fundraiser for Jewish cemeteries wasn’t motivated by any sense of altruism, The Algemeiner investigated Sarsour’s story. The publication reported today that Golden Hill Cemetery in Lakewood, CO, never received a penny, despite having been promised $100,000 from the crowdfunding campaign raised by the group associated with Sarsour. Neil Price, the primary caretaker of the Golden Hill Cemetery, said he has left three unreturned voicemails for Tarek El-Messidi, the founder of non-profit Islamic education organization Celebrate Mercy, who led the high-profile effort in February to raise money for vandalized U.S. Jewish cemeteries. El-Messidi’s partner in the effort was Sarsour. The campaign “Muslims Unite to Repair Jewish Cemetery” raised $162,468 through the Muslim crowdfunding site LaunchGood. A total of $50,000 was reportedly distributed to three Jewish sites that had been vandalized: Chesed Shel Emeth Cemetery in St. Louis, MO ($40,000), the Waad Hakolel Cemetery in Rochester, NY ($5,000) and the Chicago Loop Synagogue ($5,000). The director of the Missouri cemetery confirmed to The Algemeiner the receipt of a check, while other news sources reported that the New York and Illinois locations received the money as well. In May, Sarsour accused Assemblyman Dov Hikind of “put[ting] out lies…without any backup, to cast doubt and to defame me,” after Hikind expressed his skepticism about the crowdfunding effort. “I understood that Sarsour’s fundraiser was just a publicity stunt meant to mask her efforts to hurt the State of Israel while glorifying her terrorist pals in various Tweets and speeches,” said Hikind. “But I also hoped that the money she raised would at least help these cemeteries. After all, Sarsour has no loss of affection for dead Jews. But this new report raises questions about where the money went. Perhaps if this story gets out, the shame will cause Sarsour to direct the funds to the people it was promised to. Then again, shame implies an elevated sense of self-awareness, and someone who glorifies terrorists is rarely sullied by a scruple.” (YWN Headquarters – NYC)

VIDEO: Hikind Decries Multiple Swastikas In Brooklyn

July 10, 2017 12:15 pm No Comments

(VIDEO IN EXTENDED ARTICLE) A Jewish neighborhood in Brooklyn saw swastikas etched into multiple spots on newly poured concrete, said NY State Assemblyman Dov Hikind (D-Brooklyn) who contacted the police regarding the incident. The perpetrator was caught on private video surveillance cameras sneaking past a taped-off area of wet cement and painstakingly drawing swastika after swastika into numerous sidewalk flags in front of 242 Newkirk Avenue. “What has happened to society that people take any pleasure in spreading hate?” asked Assemblyman Hikind. “Imagine the reaction of Holocaust survivors and their descendants who live in this community when they come across these symbols of hate? This was a purposeful determination to hurt people. But the surprise will be on the vandal who brought this hate crime to this neighborhood. He was caught clearly on video.” Assemblyman Hikind immediately contacted the NYPD’s 70th precinct and shared the videos that had been provided to his office. “Our community supports and works with the police,” said Hikind. “I have great confidence that the perpetrator of this hate crime will be caught.” Disgusting #hatecrime multiple swastikas in Brooklyn. Sad that a sick person would spend so much time hurting others https://t.co/LGzf3l5Y0z pic.twitter.com/J0iEVeDpvO — Dov Hikind (@HikindDov) July 10, 2017 Photo: Assemblyman Hikind with Deputy Inspector James R. Palumbo, Commanding Officer. (YWN Headquarters – NYC)

Hikind Calls On Trump To Remove New York’s Nazi

July 5, 2017 6:00 pm No Comments

Assembly Member Dov Hikind (D-Brooklyn) is calling on President Trump to take action to deport Nazi Jakiw Palij. After more than a decade of pursuing various ways to finish a job started by the Justice Department, Hikind is pulling out all the stops in a determined effort to finally remove the Nazi camp guard from the United States. “I’ve been reaching out to high-level members of the Trump Administration,” said Hikind, the son of Holocaust survivors who insists that the President personally take up this issue. “The rights and freedoms we enjoy in America should not extend to those who facilitated the death of countless innocent people. Palij’s presence here mocks the memory of the millions who perished. There is no question of his guilt. It is imperative that someone responsible for Nazi atrocities be held accountable for his crimes, regardless of his age. I will never rest while a Nazi lives comfortably in our country.” During World War II, Palij worked at the Trawniki training camp, where Nazi troops were trained to carry out the extermination of Polish Jews. Thousands of innocents were murdered there. Palij came to America claiming that he was a farmer and war refugee, concealing his work as a Nazi guard, and was granted citizenship in 1957. After his past became known, he was stripped of his U.S. citizenship. His deportation order was upheld by the courts in 2004 but as of today, Palij remains a resident of Queens. Last month, Hikind and his colleague Michael Simanowitz (D-Queens) led 85 members of the New York State Assembly, including Majority Leader Joseph D. Morelle, in urging U.S. Attorney General Jeff Sessions to finally deport Palij. The next day, the World Jewish Congress echoed Hikind, calling on the State Department to do its job. “The Attorney General has not replied, the State Department has not replied,” said Hikind. “In Queens, Jakiw Palij is laughing. He’s laughing because he has continued to evade justice for longer than most people have been alive. He’s laughing because, despite having been paid by the Nazis to murder undesirables at the Trawinki camp in Nazi-occupied Poland, he has watched the United States justice system spin in circles. “Palij’s presence here mocks the memory of those who perished. It mocks the U.S. servicemen who fought and died to defeat the evil Nazi regime. It mocks the American justice system. I’m confident that our President wants to do the right thing and has the means to do so. It’s time for the buck to stop. It’s time for our President to show the world how murderous fiends should be regarded and disposed of. It’s time to take Jakiw Palij, this monster who is beneath contempt and unfit to breath American air, and kick him the hell out of here once and for all.” (YWN headquarters – NYC)

HIKIND RESPONDS: Verizon Wireless ‘Fixes’ Service But Will Remedy Endanger Your Life?

June 29, 2017 9:30 pm 1 Comment

After exposing how telco giant Verizon Wireless was scamming U.S. travelers to Israel with its TravelPass service, Assemblyman Dov Hikind (D-Brooklyn) was told by Verizon that it had “fixed the problem.” But Hikind says the “fix” has only made things worse, at best, and that Verizon’s TravelPass still leaves customers vulnerable to being cheated and possibly endangered. The Verizon Wireless TravelPass plan promises big savings to customers who travel abroad with a flat rate of only $10 per day. But Hikind and other New Yorkers who used the plan were charged exorbitant fees when visiting Israel because the telco’s service was interrupted by neighboring Jordan and Saudi Arabia signals. Adding insult to injury, Verizon customer service threatened to put customers into collection who had called to complain of the over-charges. After Hikind exposed this issue, he was contacted by Verizon’s inter-governmental affairs liaison who said the company was aware of the issue and had remedied the problem in February. A reporter from The Hamodia following up on Hikind’s report was told by David Weissmann, a spokesman for Verizon Wireless, that in March, Verizon Wireless enhanced its TravelPass feature to ensure that customers do not face surprise bills for roaming data. He said that when a customer’s phone hits a tower in a non-TravelPass country (e.g., Jordan), “the data traffic gets redirected to a ‘captive portal’ – basically, it is a web page that shows you the rates you will be charged in the new country, at which point you have the opportunity to accept or decline.” “This ‘fix’ begs new questions,” said Hikind. “What if you’re a passenger on a bus or in a car that gets too close to Jordan or Saudi Arabia or Gaza—you’re in the middle of a conversation and don’t see that warning? Or your phone was not on at the time? Suddenly, G-d forbid, you find yourself in an emergency situation, which can happen to anyone, and is more likely in Israel than in the U.S. Suddenly, you find yourself on the road without phone service. That’s dangerous. And it’s not something Verizon warns you about when you ask about their TravelPass.” Hikind’s office carefully examined the Verizon Wireless website and made calls to Verizon Wireless customer service to see if the “fix” was documented. The Verizon website does not make it apparent that expensive roaming charges are a possibility when travelling within Israel. More, calls to customer service—which Hikind’s office recorded—made it clear that customers are in no way warned of the possibility of excessive charges when seeking to sign up for the TravelPass service. “It’s a big rip off,” said Hikind. “Verizon Wireless can no longer claim they don’t know about the issue or that they’ve resolved it in a satisfactory way. They are being misleading, dishonest and unfair, and New Yorkers traveling to Israel and other places where there’s a possibility of dangerous loss of service or excessive charges should be aware of this issue.” A recording of Hikind’s staff speaking with Verizon Customer Service about TravelPass, which was recorded today, can be found here: (YWN World Headquarters – NYC)

Verizon Responds To Hikind Allegations They Are ‘Ripping Off Customers’

June 29, 2017 1:00 pm 1 Comment

Verizon Wireless has responded to allegations by New York State Assemblyman Dov Hikind (D-Brooklyn) that their ‘TravelPass’ service is scamming U.S. travelers to Israel. The following is a statement submitted to YWN by a Verizon spokesman: Let me first reassure you that there is no widespread billing issue related to our TravelPass service. When a device loses signal from the mobile network it is roaming on, it will scan for a new network to attach to. The search for a new signal doesn’t consider a country’s borders. So, if a customer is traveling along the border of two countries, depending on the location of the cell sites, it is possible their wireless device would connect to the neighboring country’s network – because that signal is the strongest. And if that country’s wireless network is not included in TravelPass, international roaming rates would apply. That in mind, we have safeguards in place to ensure our customers are not surprised when this happens. For instance, the first time a customer connects to a new international network, we send them a text message with that country’s name and billing rates. To further protect our customers from unexpected charges, in March, we introduced a feature that requires customers to respond and opt in to use data not included in their TravelPass plan. We will continue to look for opportunities to further educate our customers on important things to know while using our TravelPass service. We appreciate the opportunity to work with New York State Assemblyman Dov Hikind on this matter. We encourage any customers with billing questions on TravelPass,to give our customer care team a call at 800-922-0204. (YWN World Headquarters – NYC)

Majority Leader Morelle, Hikind, Simanowitz And 85 Colleagues Implore Sessions To Deport Nazi

June 14, 2017 8:30 am No Comments

Led by Assembly Members Dov Hikind (D-Brooklyn) and Michael Simanowitz (D-Queens), numerous members of the New York State Assembly, including Majority Leader Joseph D. Morelle, are urging U.S. Attorney General Jeff Sessions to finally deport Nazi Jakiw Palij from the United States. A letter signed by more than 85members of the Assembly from both sides of the aisle insists that Palij, a decades-long resident of Queens, New York, no longer be allowed the privileges of law-abiding citizens. During World War II, Palij worked at the notorious Treblinka death camp, where thousands of innocent men, women and children were murdered and thrown into pits. He was also an armed guard at the nearby Trawinki training camp, where Nazi troops were trained to carry out the extermination of Polish Jews. Palij came to America claiming that he was a farmer and war refugee, concealing his work as a Nazi guard, and was granted citizenship in 1957. After the revelations about his past became known, he was subsequently stripped of his U.S. citizenship, which was obtained illegally and under false pretenses. His deportation order was upheld by the courts in 2004 but as of today, Palij remains a resident of Queens. “The rights and freedoms we enjoy in America should not extend to those who helped facilitate the death of countless innocent people,” said Hikind, who has been working to deport Palij for more than a decade. Hikind’s parents were Holocaust survivors. “Palij’s presence here mocks the memory of the millions who perished,” he said. “There is no question of his guilt. It is imperative that someone responsible for Nazi atrocities be held accountable for his crimes. While his victims can no longer seek justice, we must, and with this new administration and Attorney General, there’s reason to believe we’ll see that justice. I’m never giving up.” “Jakiw Palij’s presence in Queens is an insult to the memories of millions of Holocaust victims, and those who continue to bear their pain to this day,” said Assemblyman Simanowitz. “The atrocities committed by Palij are unspeakable; to gift him the hard fought freedoms of this country is intolerable. I stand with my colleagues in calling for his deportation and for justice to be served.” Both Hikind and Simanowitz recognized Rabbi Zev Friedman from Rambam Mesifta for keeping the spotlight on Palij over the years with numerous demonstrations outside of the Nazi’s home. 85 Assembly Members signed. In addition to Majority Leader Morelle, Hikind, Simanowitz, these members signed: Peter J. Abbate, Jr. (D-Kings), Thomas J. Abinanti (D-Greenburgh), Michael Benedetto (D-Bronx), Ken Blankenbush (R-Black River), Karl Barbenec (R-Westbrookvile), Kevin M. Byrne (R-Mahopac), Kevin A. Cahill (D-Kingston), Ron Castorina, Jr. (R-Staten Island), William Colton (D-Kings), Vivian E. Cook (D-Jamaica), Clifford W. Crouch (D-Bainbridge), Brain Curran (R-Lynbrook), Michael Cusick (D-Staten Island), Steven Cymbrowitz (D-Kings), Anthony D’Urso (R-Nassau), Carmen N. De La Rosa (D-New York), Michael G. DenDekker (D-East Elmhurst), Erik M. Dilan (D-Kings), Jeffrey Dinowitz (D-Bronx), Joseph A. Errigo (R-Conesus), Michael J. Fitzpatrick (R-St. James), Christopher S. Friend (R-Big Flats), David F. Gantt (D-Rochester), Joseph M. Giglio (R-Gownada), Mark Gjonaj (D-Bronx), Deborah J. Glick (D- Manhattan), Andy Goodell (R-Jamestown), Al Graf (R-Holbrook), Pamela Harris (D-Kings), Stephen Hawley (R-Batavia), Pamela J. Hunter (D-Syracuse), Alicia Hyndman (D-Springfield Gardens), Kimberly Jean-Pierre (D-Wheatley Heights), Mark Johns (R-Webster), Brian Kavanagh (D-Manhattan), Michael P. Kearns

Hikind Praises Sears For Removing Anti-Israel Products

June 7, 2017 12:40 pm 5 Comments

“SEARS didn’t hide behind ‘freedom of speech’— they just did the right thing.” New York State Assemblyman Dov Hikind (D, Brooklyn) had high praise for SEARS Holding Corp. for removing offensive shirts that denied the existence of the State of Israel. A variety of “Free Palestine” items had been made available at Sears online via third-party merchant Spreadshirt, Inc. “What refreshing news!” proclaimed Hikind. “Others and myself brought this issue to SEARS’ attention and they acted responsibly and did the right thing. Retailers should not be involved in selling products that are divisive and hurtful and SEARS recognized that and took action. They didn’t hide behind ‘freedom of speech’—they just did the right thing. Everyone can learn from their courageous handling of this issue. G-d bless them.” (YWN Headquarters – NYC)

Hikind Calls On Sears To Immediately Desist From ‘Political’ Position

June 6, 2017 5:15 pm 4 Comments

New York State Assemblyman Dov Hikind (D, Brooklyn) was outraged to find Sears selling shirts that deny the existence of the State of Israel with calls to “end Israeli occupation.” A variety of “Free Palestine” items are available at Sears online via third-party merchant Spreadshirt, Inc., which pays Sears a commission for each item sold. “This is beyond outrageous,” said Hikind. “With these messages, SEARS Holding Corp, a publicly traded company, is taking a position against the State of Israel. SEARS has decided to sell themselves and make a quick buck by promoting divisiveness. When a company permits someone to sell divisive material from their business, and they profit from it, then they are endorsing that sentiment. “Their company has been suffering for years and this year became a penny stock due to poor sales. Telling people now that the Jewish State does not exist will not exactly endear them to people in my community, and I dare say in many other communities as well.” “I am calling on SEARS to do the right thing and desist from selling these offensive products immediately.” (YWN Headquarters – NYC)

Hikind To Address Rally To Protest Sarsour Commencement Speech At CUNY

May 24, 2017 8:15 am No Comments

NY State Assemblyman Dov Hikind (D-Brooklyn) will address a rally at the CUNY offices on 42nd street in Manhattan this Thursday, May 25, to protest the invitation to terrorism apologist Linda Sarsour to keynote CUNY’s Commencement ceremony. Sarsour was invited by Ayman El-Mohandes, dean of CUNY’s Graduate School of Public Health and Health Policy. “The insensitivity, hypocrisy and irresponsibility at CUNY is almost beyond belief,” said Hikind. “The ultra-left are defending Linda Sarsour’s invitation to deliver a prestigious commencement speech while ignoring the real issue. Sarsour promotes violence. Sarsour glorifies terrorists. This type of person is unacceptable as a commencement speaker. This is something New York State funded schools should distance themselves from, not tacitly approve.” Hikind praised activist/author Pam Geller for putting together Thursday’s rally. “No else has really done anything,” said Hikind. “It’s more than disappointing—it’s a shocking, deafening silence. Where is the ADL? Where are major Jewish organizations? I was pleased to see a letter from the Catholic League yesterday to CUNY’s Chairman condemning Sarsour’s appearance at the school. Many, many people understand how dangerous Sarsour’s messages are and the terrifying ramifications of CUNY tacitly approving her message. So here is a chance to really be heard. CUNY cleverly scheduled its commencement for the Jewish holiday of Shavuot, making it impossible for observant Jews to attend. So this Thursday’s rally is our one opportunity to stand together and tell CUNY—and everyone who listens—how immoral it is to offer a platform to anyone who applauds terrorism and glorifies terrorists and calls for violence upon the innocent.” ——— Linda Sarsour in her own words: April 2, 2017 – Praised convicted PFLP (Popular Front for the Liberation of Palestine) terrorist Rasmea Odeh when the two addressed a conference in Chicago on April 2, 2017. Sarsour told the audience she was “honored and privileged to be here in this space, and honored to be on this stage with Rasmea.” March, 2017 – Told The Nation that you cannot be a Zionist and a Feminist. “Is there room for people who support the state of Israel and do not criticize it in the movement? There can’t be in feminism.” October 2016 – Praised the Intifada, a movement that encourages random stabbings and rock throwing at Israeli civilians. She tweeted “Intifada has brought us some of the most important coverage and Palestine related news. They are invaluable on many fronts.” October 11, 2015 – Glorified and encouraged Arab stone throwers who target Israelis by calling them “The definition of courage” and tweeting a photo of a three-year-old with rocks. August 18, 2015 – Tweeted “Free #Muhammadallan” in support of the jailed Islamic Jihad terrorist who was involved in the recruitment of suicide bombers. March 8, 2011 – Attacked a Somali-born activist and critic of radical Islam, writing on Twitter that Hirsi Ali deserved to be physically assaulted for her views. “Brigitte Gabriel = Ayaan Hirsi Ali. She’s asking 4 an a$$ whippin’. I wish I could take their vaginas away – they don’t deserve to be women.” 2003 – Expressed regret after U.S. forces captured Iraqi dictator and mass murderer Saddam Hussein, telling Newsday, “my Arab pride was hurt… I felt humiliated by the way Hussein was caught and shown, disheveled and pathetic-looking, on international television.” (YWN Headquarters – NYC)

Hikind, NYC Dot Review Studies For Off-Hour Deliveries On Main Thoroughfares

May 23, 2017 8:15 am No Comments

Boro Park and Midwood traffic congestion may finally lighten up. Assemblyman Dov Hikind (D-Brooklyn) met today with Brooklyn Department of Transportation Commissioner Keith Bray and his staff to review the DOT’s findings as it studies replacing business-hour deliveries with off-hour deliveries on Boro Park’s and Midwood’s main thoroughfares. Several months ago, Hikind suggested the solution to the DOT to ease day-time traffic, reduce tickets, and make the streets safer. Reducing traffic along 13th, 16th and 18th Avenues in Boro Park and main thoroughfares in Midwood during peak traffic hours would provide everyone with tremendous relief, Hikind suggested. In response, DOT project managers canvassed the neighborhood, then presented their findings to Hikind and his staff based on interviews with business owners and managers along 13th Avenue. Their next step is to examine 16th and 18th Avenues in Boro Park, and designated avenues in Midwood. “No one is happy with our community’s growing traffic congestion, especially along the main streets,” said Assemblyman Hikind, who has been working with other elected officials and Community Board 12 to come up with possible solutions. “Commissioner Bray and his team are thoroughly examining my suggestion. Implementing a program like this, which they currently have in Manhattan, would be a first for the outer boroughs. It would improve the quality of life for everyone in our community—not just the people who live here but also those who are making deliveries. I hope we can accomplish this and I look forward to reporting about further progress.” (YWN Headquarters – NYC)

Hikind Praises Boro Park Shmira Patrol For Recovering Valuable Stolen Seforim [VIDEO & PHOTOS]

May 12, 2017 12:48 pm No Comments

(VIDEO & PHOTOS IN EXTENDED ARTICLE) Only a month ago, Assemblyman Dov Hikind (D-Brooklyn) was contacting everyone he could via phone calls and social media to help a local rabbi recover over $400,000 in stolen antique seforim (books). Today, the Assemblyman stood alongside Rabbi Meir Rokeach, the Kozlover Rebbe, as the precious books were returned to his synagogue. The return of the books was facilitated by the Borough Park Shmira, a local community safety patrol whose volunteers dedicated themselves to tracking down the thief and negotiating the safe return of the collection. “Books like these are precious to the family and the community, not just because of their monetary value, but also because of their history,” explained Assemblyman Hikind. “People typically desire to own such seforim because they are holy and they radiate blessings. And thankfully our community is blessed to have dedicated volunteers like Shmira.” Led by founder/director Levi Leifer and coordinator Usher Frisch, the Boro Park Shmira worked with the local police and used private video surveillance to identify the thief. They then arranged for the books to be returned. No arrests were made and no ransom for the books was paid, said Leifer. Hikind thanked Shmira for their persistence, dedication and tireless efforts for weeks on end. “There’s a lesson in this for everyone,” said the Assemblyman. “Everyone who can afford to should put up surveillance cameras—and everyone should be eager to share video footage with the police and local security patrols when necessary. As a community working together, we can better prevent crime.” Rabbi Rokeach and his family expressed their enormous gratitude to Assemblyman Hikind and the members of Boro Park Shmira. (YWN Headquarters – NYC)

Hikind: Linda Sarsour’s Own Words – Incitement, Terrosist Support – Must Be Addressed

May 8, 2017 10:15 pm 3 Comments

Assemblyman Dov Hikind (D-Brooklyn) stood with a gathering of women today from all walks of Brooklyn life to expose terror propagandist Linda Sarsour. CUNY’s recent invitation to Sarsour to deliver a commencement address at their School of Public Health has been a cause of grave concern to Hikind and other elected officials from both parties, as well as a number of prominent Jewish organizations and numerous women who regard themselves as feminists. Hikind has already called on Governor Cuomo to intercede and last week, the NY State GOP released a petition to block Sarsour from speaking at CUNY. “Sarsour has openly associated with terrorists, glorified acts of violence, and praised terrorism throughout her career as a so-called social activist,” said Hikind. “This is not a matter of opinion. It’s all there in Sarsour’s own words—her Tweets and the things she has told the press and said on stage. Sarsour is playing liberals and the women’s movement, who want to believe she represents their views. It’s time that elected officials, who have praised her in the past for her public work, take off the blinders and evaluate her other agenda. This includes not only delegitimizing the State of Israel but also promoting Sharia law and glorifying acts of terrorism.” “I am an immigrant, an attorney, a feminist and a Zionist,” said Inna Vernikov, one of the women who attended Hikind’s press conference. “Linda Sarsour has decided that a woman cannot be a Feminist and a Zionist, but she has no authority on either of these subjects. She advocates for Sharia law and apologizes for Saudi Arabia, both of which subjugate women. That is not Feminism. Is this the best that CUNY can offer as a role model for the future? Today, I stand ashamed to be a CUNY graduate.” Linda Sarsour in her own words: April 2, 2017 – Praises convicted PFLP (Popular Front for the Liberation of Palestine) terrorist Rasmea Odeh when the two addressed a conference in Chicago on April 2, 2017. Sarsour told the audience she was “honored and privileged to be here in this space, and honored to be on this stage with Rasmea.” March, 2017 – Tells The Nation that you cannot be a Zionist and a Feminist. “Is there room for people who support the state of Israel and do not criticize it in the movement? There can’t be in feminism.” October 2016 – Praises the Intifada, a movement that encourages random stabbings and rock throwing at Israeli civilians. She tweeted “Intifada has brought us some of the most important coverage and Palestine related news. They are invaluable on many fronts.” October 11, 2015 – Glorified and encouraged Arab stone throwers who target Israelis by calling them “The definition of courage” and tweeting a photo of a three-year-old with rocks. August 18, 2015 – Tweeted “Free #Muhammadallan” in support of the jailed Islamic Jihad terrorist who was involved in the recruitment of suicide bombers. March 8, 2011 – Attacked a Somali-born activist and critic of radical Islam, writing on Twitter that Hirsi Ali deserved to be physically assaulted for her views. 2003 – Expressed regret after U.S. forces captured Iraqi dictator and mass murderer Saddam Hussein, telling Newsday, “my Arab pride was hurt… I felt humiliated by the way Hussein was caught and shown, disheveled

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