14 Jul SPEAK YOUR VUES WITH THE VUES MASTER
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A TRIBUTE TO SENATOR LINDSEY
GRAHAM
Dear Vues Master
The sudden passing of Senator Lindsey Graham is heart-
breaking news, not only for America but for the Jewish
people and the State of Israel. While politicians often come
and go, true friends of Israel are rare. Senator Graham was
one of those exceptional leaders whose unwavering sup-
port never wavered, even during Israel’s most difficult and
dangerous moments.
Throughout his decades of public service, he consistently
stood up for Israel’s right to defend itself against terror-
ism and its enemies. He championed military aid, opposed
efforts to weaken the U.S.-Israel alliance, fought against
Iran’s nuclear ambitions, and spoke with moral clarity
when so many others remained silent. His famous words,
“G-d blesses those who bless Israel,” reflected not just a
political position but a deeply held conviction.
One of the things I always admired was his close friendship
with the late Senator Joe Lieberman. Despite coming from
different political parties, the two shared a deep respect
for one another and a common commitment to America’s
values and the security of Israel. Their friendship was a
reminder that support for Israel should always rise above
politics.
When Israel came under attack, Senator Graham was
among the first to stand shoulder to shoulder with the Jew-
ish state. He understood that America’s security and Is-
rael’s security are closely connected. He never hesitated
to defend Israel on the world stage, even when it was un-
popular to do so.
The Jewish nation has lost one of its greatest champions,
and his legacy of courage, loyalty, and friendship will nev-
er be forgotten.
VY
Vues Master’s Note: We were fortunate to have a friend
like Senator Graham and I’m certain he has earned his
place with the righteous Gentiles who came before him.
Let’s daven that we have more friends like him here on
Earth.
AN ORANGE MESS
Dear Vues Master
I have to ask: who thought it was a good idea to install
those orange traffic cones and dividers in the Center One
Mall parking lot in Woodridge?
Whoever came up with this plan clearly has never been
there on a Thursday afternoon or Friday before Shabbos.
The traffic has become an absolute nightmare. Cars are
backed up in every direction, drivers can’t maneuver, and
what was already a crowded parking lot has turned into
complete chaos.
The purpose of traffic control should be to improve the flow
of vehicles, not make it worse. These cones have done ex-
actly the opposite. Instead of allowing cars to move around
naturally, they’ve created bottlenecks that leave everyone
frustrated. It can take several minutes just to get in or out
of the parking lot.
The busiest shopping days of the week in Woodridge are
Thursday, Friday, and Sunday. Thousands of people come
through Center One to shop, eat, and prepare for Shabbos.
Anyone with even a little familiarity with the area would
have known that restricting traffic lanes during those peak
times would create gridlock.
Before making changes like this, officials should spend a
few hours observing how the parking lot operates during
the summer season. Real-world experience is often more
valuable than a plan drawn on paper.
I sincerely hope whoever approved this traffic pattern will
admit it isn’t working and remove the cones before the rest
of the summer is spent sitting in unnecessary traffic jams.
Sometimes the best solution is simply to undo a bad idea.
BT
Vues Master’s Note: Clearly a conehead came up with this
idea!
A FAREWELL TO THE CATSKILL HOTELS
Dear Vues Master
Does anyone else miss the days when a frum family could
spend a Shabbos in the Catskills without owning a bunga-
low or renting an entire house?
Years ago, there were plenty of kosher hotels where fami-
lies could book a room, enjoy delicious meals, daven with
a minyan, and experience a relaxing Shabbos atmosphere.
Sadly, those days seem to be gone.
During the week, there are still a few places to stay. The
Resorts World Catskills casino hotel, The Kartrite Resort,
and a handful of motels offer accommodations for those
visiting the area. But when it comes to Shabbos, the op-
tions are practically nonexistent.
Even the Hudson Valley Resort, which had
been one of the last remaining places where
families could spend a Shabbos, isn’t avail-
able this summer because it has been rented
out to a camp. That leaves frum families with
almost nowhere to go unless they own a bun-
galow or house, have relatives in the area,
or can afford to rent an entire house for the
weekend.
Not everyone has those options. Many fami-
lies would love to spend a peaceful Shabbos
in the mountains, enjoy the fresh air, and
visit friends, but they simply have nowhere
to stay.
As our Catskills community continues to
grow, perhaps this is an opportunity for an
entrepreneur to open a modern kosher hotel
once again. I have no doubt there would be
tremendous demand.
The Catskills have always been a special
place for the frum community. It would be
wonderful if once again every family, not
just bungalow owners, could enjoy a Shab-
bos there.
RGH
Vues Master’s Note: Although this sounds
great, I fear that the days of the Catskill ho-
tels are coming to an end.
A 9 DAYS REMINDER
Dear Vues Master
These Three Weeks are an eis ratzon for te-
filah, says Rabbi Yosef Gesser. As Rabbi
Naftoli Weinberger writes in his book, The
Priceless Treasure of Bircas Kohanim, the
kohanim face away from the Aron Hakodesh
(toward the kehillah) to bless the kehilah. If
Hashem is willing to give of His kavod (so to
speak) so that we will be blessed shouldn’t
we be mevater? In this way, we can truly
merit blessings. We all know the story of
Kamtzah and Bar Kamtzah. While the baal
simcha in that story should have let the latter
stay, would we have acted differently in that
same situation? I would like to think so, but
we don’t know until we are in that situation.
This is why it is important to learn the import
of v’ahavta l’reiacha kamocha. And when we
conquer our ego we are creating an opening
for our tefilos to be answered. And our bein
adom laMakom is elevated as well. I would
suggest that even if it is not your minhag that
you try to “catch” Birchas Kohanim at least
once before Tisha B’Av. Additionally, as
Rabbi Gesser has suggested, you can visit the
kevarim of the great rabonim and rebbetzins
of yesteryears. Rabbi Weinberger writes that
people travel far and look for segulahs when
the blessings are right here in our own back-
yard. Let us judge others favorably, daven
with more fervor and learn to take this auspi-
cious time seriously. Rabbi Binyamin Yudin
has noted that the kohen channels the unique
requests of each individual and offers them
to Hashem. It is hoped that through our tef-
ilah, chessed and Torah study that Mashiach
should come speedily in our days.
Chaim Yehuda Meyer
Vues Master’s Note: This is an important re-
minder about the seriousness of the 3 weeks
and the 9 days. I’d like to add that instead of
looking for ways to “get out” of the 9 days
restrictions, we should use this time for intro-
spection and reflection.
KOL HAKAVOD CAMP HASC
Dear Vues Master
This past Sunday, I had the tremendous
zechus of attending Visiting Day at Camp
HASC to visit my son. I left feeling inspired
and filled with hakaras hatov. There is simply
no place like Camp HASC.
People often refer to Disney as “the happi-
est place on earth,” but anyone who has spent
a day at Camp HASC knows that this is the
true happiest place on earth. Everywhere you
look, you see smiling faces, singing, dancing,
simcha, and an incredible amount of Ahavas
Yisroel. The campers are surrounded by
warmth, dignity, and endless love.
Watching the dedicated counselors and staff
interact with every camper was truly moving.
Their patience, enthusiasm, and devotion are
nothing short of remarkable. They give of
themselves day and night to ensure that every
camper feels special, valued, and loved. It is
clear that they are doing much more than run-
ning a camp, they are changing lives.
A very special thank you goes to Mr. Kahn
and the entire Camp HASC administration,
together with every counselor, division head,
doctors, nurses, therapists, volunteers, and
staff member. The mesirus nefesh and heart
they invest in these precious children is be-
yond words. They bring so much nachas and
joy not only to the campers but also to their
parents and families.
Camp HASC is a true Kiddush Hashem and
one of the greatest treasures of our commu-
nity. May Hashem bentch everyone involved
with continued koach, good health, and the
ability to continue this incredible avodas ha-
kodesh for many years to come.
UB
Vues Master’s Note: Camp HASC is defi-
nitely one of the most special places on Earth
and every staff member deserves a HUGE
yashar koach!
THE BEAUTY IN A 9 DAYS
SIYUM
Dear Vues Master
Every year during the Nine Days, one thing
becomes very noticeable, there seems to be a
siyum taking place everywhere you turn. Ev-
ery shul, camp, bungalow colony, and neigh-
borhood has multiple siyumim, and in many
cases, several on the very same day.
On the one hand, I think it’s a beautiful phe-
nomenon. More people are learning Torah,
more masechtos are being completed, and
more opportunities are created for people to
gather together to celebrate limud haTorah.
There is no question that the increase in To-
rah learning during this period is something
our community should be proud of.
At the same time, I can’t help but smile when
I see how many people suddenly become
“regulars” at siyumim during the Nine Days.
Let’s be honest, many attendees are there as
much for the fleishig meal as they are for the
siyum itself! You can always count on seeing
familiar faces who somehow know exactly
where the next barbecue or hot dog station
will be.
While that sometimes bothers me a little, I
remind myself that if a delicious fleishig
meal encourages another siyum to be made
or brings more people into a beis medrash to
hear words of Torah, perhaps that’s not such
a bad thing after all.
In the end, the real winner is Torah. If the
Nine Days inspire more learning, more siyu-
mim, and more people connecting to Torah,
even if a plate of cholent or a barbecue is part
of the attraction, that is something worth cel-
ebrating.
RSM
Vues Master’s Note: I never looked at it that
way. I always got upset when people went to
a siyum that they had nothing to do with, but
I really appreciate your perspective. This is a
good reminder to this Vues Master to try to
be less judgemental and to look for the posi-
tive in every situation.
CATSKILLS SHOMRIM SAVE THE
DAY
Dear Vues Master
I would like to take this opportunity to ex-
press my sincere appreciation and gratitude
to Catskills Shomrim for the incredible work
they do to protect and assist our community.
Recently, a community member hired an in-
dividual who offered landscaping services.
After collecting a deposit, the individual
failed to return and complete the promised
work. The victim was left frustrated and un-
sure of what steps to take.
Thankfully, Catskills Shomrim stepped in
and took the matter seriously. Through the
determination, dedication, and persistence of
their volunteers, the individual was tracked
down. With the assistance of the New York
State Police, the deposit was successfully re-
covered and returned to the victim. The indi-
vidual was also issued a warning regarding
this type of unacceptable conduct.
This story is a powerful reminder of the
importance of having organizations like
Catskills Shomrim looking out for the com-
munity. Their volunteers give of their time
and energy to help neighbors in need, often
working behind the scenes without seeking
recognition.
In the Catskills, where thousands of families
spend their summers, it is comforting to know
that there are dedicated individuals who are
willing to step up and help protect residents
and visitors alike. Their efforts bring peace of
mind and strengthen the sense of community
that makes the area so special.
Thank you to Catskills Shomrim for always
being there when people need you most. Your
commitment and selfless work are truly ap-
preciated.
BT
Vues Master’s Note: Stories like this remind
us that beyond the emergency calls and head-
lines, Shomrim’s greatest contribution is giv-
ing our community the confidence that some-
one is looking out for them.
A FLEISHIG PHENOMENON
Dear Vues Master
Every summer, we are fortunate to see more
and more fleishig restaurants opening in the
Catskills, giving families and visitors addi-
tional options and convenience during their
stay. These establishments work hard to serve
the community and provide a much-appreci-
ated service.
At the same time, I have always wondered
about the unique challenges these restaurants
face. The summer season is already quite
short. A restaurant must hire a full staff, bring
in supplies, prepare the kitchen, and cover
significant expenses, all while knowing that
the main season only lasts a few short weeks.
Then comes the period of the Nine Days. We
all know that siyumim have become very
popular during this time. There is something
beautiful about the way so many people in-
crease their limud haTorah and join together
for siyumim. It is truly inspiring to see the
Torah learning that takes place during these
days.
However, a practical question remains: Is it
financially worthwhile for a meat restaurant
to remain open with a full staff during the
Nine Days, especially when the main source
of business may come from a limited number
of siyumim? Does it make sense to carry all
the expenses of running a full operation for
such a short window?
Of course, we appreciate all the restaurants
that open and provide for the needs of the tzi-
bbur. Their dedication and hard work do not
go unnoticed. Perhaps this is simply another
example of the challenges of running a sum-
mer business in the Catskills, where halacha,
customer needs, and business realities all
come together.
May all our summer businesses have contin-
ued hatzlachah and siyata diShmaya.
RGH
Vues Master’s Note: As I like to say: Ac-
tions speak louder than words. Since many
fleishig restaurants stay open during the 9
days, and have been doing so for many years,
I guess it’s worth their while!
ANTISEMITISM IN THE
MOUNTAINS
Dear Vues Master
It is deeply troubling and frightening to see
how openly antisemitism is being displayed
in today’s world. For many years, we hoped
that the hatred and prejudice of the past
would stay behind us, but the past year has
shown that unfortunately, antisemitism is still
very much alive.
Sadly, even the quiet communities of upstate
New York are no longer immune. An anti-
semitic incident outside Chesky’s Pizza in
Woodridge this past Sunday was a shocking
reminder that hatred can appear anywhere. A
man carrying a crowbar reportedly shouted
“Heil Hitler,” praised the Third Reich, and
made antisemitic threats before fleeing the
scene. Police responded, but the suspect was
gone before officers arrived.
For the thousands of frum families who come
upstate each summer to enjoy the peace and
beauty of the area, this is deeply disturbing.
People come here to daven, learn, spend time
with family, and enjoy a safe environment.
No one should ever have to feel threatened
because of their Jewish identity.
At the same time, we must express our tre-
mendous appreciation to the local law en-
forcement agencies who responded and
continue to protect our communities. We are
especially grateful to Sullivan County Sheriff
Mike Schiff and his department for their on-
going commitment to the safety and security
of the Jewish community. Their partnership,
professionalism, and willingness to work
closely with our community provide great
reassurance.
These incidents remind us of the importance
of achdus, vigilance, and supporting those
who dedicate themselves to protecting us. We
must continue to stand together and look out
for one another.
May Hashem protect Klal Yisrael, and may
we soon see the day when hatred and anti-
semitism are replaced with peace and under-
standing.
CF
Vues Master’s Note: Unfortunately, anti-
semitism is becoming more and more wide-
spread throughout the world, especially post
October 7th. It’s important to remain vigilant
and report any and all incidents to law en-
forcement.
REMEMBERING OUR VALUES
Dear Vues Master
Every summer I find myself asking the same
question: Are we living according to the val-
ues we profess all year?
For most of the year we emphasize spiritual-
ity, strong families, modest living, and proper
chinuch. Yet when summer arrives, many
bungalow colonies/summer home complexes
become centers of competition, materialism,
and social comparison.
Too often, hours are spent discussing who
renovated, who purchased the latest fur-
niture, whose children attend the “best”
schools, or whose Shabbos table is the most
impressive. Conversations that could inspire
instead revolve around appearances, posses-
sions, and status. Over time, this atmosphere
normalizes lashon hara, envy, and constant
comparison.
Equally troubling is the family dynamic
many have accepted. Countless fathers re-
main in the city throughout the week, eating,
sleeping, and living apart from their families
until a brief weekend reunion. We frequently
speak about strengthening marriages and the
importance of a father’s daily presence, yet
many voluntarily embrace an arrangement
that limits both.
Children notice more than we realize. They
absorb what excites adults, what occupies
our conversations, and what we celebrate. If
they see prestige valued over
character and possessions
over principles, those lessons
inevitably shape their own pri-
orities.
Certainly, not every bungalow
colony reflects this culture,
and many families spend the
summer in meaningful and
uplifting ways. But the un-
healthy trends are real and
widely recognized. Ignoring
them serves no one.
If our summer habits undermine the ideals
we promote the rest of the year, perhaps it
is time to honestly examine whether our sea-
sonal culture is strengthening our families, or
quietly reshaping them.
BT
Vues Master’s Note: I don’t think material-
ism and discussions about construction are
limited to the summer and bungalow colo-
nies. Have you seen some of the homes in
Brooklyn, Teaneck, or the Five Towns? I
think you may be hearing more about it now
because people sit together in closer quarters
during the summer. In terms of fathers being
away from their families for a large part of
the week, as the saying goes: Absence makes
the heart grow fonder!
HOLY SIDEWALKS
Dear Vues Master
I was shocked to read about the plan to intro-
duce separate sidewalks for men and women
on public streets in Bnei Brak. As someone
who values tznius and respects daas Torah,
I nevertheless believe this proposal is a mis-
take.
Our Torah is the Torah of life. Chazal taught
us how to conduct ourselves with dignity and
kedushah, but they also understood that peo-
ple live in the real world. Public sidewalks
have never been places where men and wom-
en were expected to be physically separated.
Suggesting otherwise places an unnecessary
burden on the tzibbur and risks making Yid-
dishkeit appear extreme in the eyes of many.
Tznius is achieved through personal conduct,
proper chinuch, and yiras Shamayim, not by
dividing every public space. If people attend
a chasunah, they should act appropriately, but
requiring separate sidewalks is a step too far.
It creates confusion, invites needless contro-
versy, and distracts from the true beauty of
Torah observance.
It is also difficult to understand why munici-
palities should be enforcing standards that go
beyond what has traditionally been expected
in public areas. When chumros become pub-
lic policy, they can create resentment rather
than greater respect for Torah.
We all want Bnei Brak to remain an ir shel
Torah and a place that reflects kedushah. But
preserving that kedushah requires wisdom as
well as zeal. Sometimes saying “enough” is
not a rejection of Torah values, it is the best
way to preserve them.
Sincerely,
A Concerned Ben Torah
Vues Master’s Note: This plan doesn’t seem
to be something that is going to be enforced,
or even allowed, by the government. It seems
that there have been unauthorized efforts to
enforce gender segregation on sidewalks pe-
riodically. The Israeli government won’t, nor
should they, allow this to happen legally. If
we become extremists in our religious obser-
vance, we won’t know what is actually hala-
cha anymore.
STANDING AT A CHUPAH
Dear Vues Master,
An interesting and surprising psak was pub-
lished in the name of Rabbi Yitzchak Zilber-
stein in the weekly Divrei Chemed maga-
zine, which presents his Torah thoughts and
rulings.
Rabbi Zilberstein addressed the current cus-
tom abroad of sitting during a chupah, with
men and women seated on opposite sides.
This custom is not prevalent in Israel, where
people generally stand throughout the chu-
pah. The question was asked by someone
who had immigrated from abroad and whose
daughter was marrying someone from Chutz
La’Aretz. The family preferred to continue
their custom from abroad of sitting during
the chupah, but they wanted to know whether
this would be considered a departure from
the accepted minhag in Israel.
Rabbi Zilberstein demonstrated, based on
several sources, that the custom of standing
has its basis in the Rishonim. He quoted the
Orchos Chaim, who explains that a chasan is
like a king and, therefore, everyone should
stand before him. Additionally, the chupah is
compared to Matan Torah, and for that reason
people should stand. Rabbi Shlomo Kluger
also cites the Tikkunei Zohar, which em-
phasizes that the entire congregation should
stand together with the chasan and kallah
while the Sheva Brachos are recited.
After citing additional sources, Rabbi Zilber-
stein concludes:
“The accepted custom is to stand, and the dis-
cussion centered on the reasons for this prac-
tice. Standing was the custom in all places,
except in some communities in the United
States, where this practice was changed—not
for halachic reasons. The poskim discussed
the rationale behind this departure from the
traditional custom. Therefore, even for resi-
dents of Chutz La’Aretz who sit for reasons
that are not halachic, whoever is able to
change this custom will be blessed. Certainly,
in Israel one should not sit, and one should
not introduce customs that have no halachic
basis. In truth, we should uphold the ancient
custom observed in Jewish communities to
stand during the chupah.”
VL
Vues Master’s Note: Some of the chassanas
I have attended recently have had chuppahs
that lasted more than an hour. I don’t know if
I could stand that long after eating so much at
the smorgasbord!