“I don’t speak because I have the power to speak; I speak because I don’t have the power to remain silent.” Rav Kook z"l

Sunday, May 4, 2025

The press hates Trump more than it loves the truth

 

When there is a Republican president, the leftist-dominated White House press corps likes to gang up and try to put him on defense.

The ultimate fantasy is repeating the glory days of Watergate by driving the president from office.

That was certainly the aim in Donald Trump’s first term, where the hunt by Democrats with press passes — and the help of a corrupt FBI — was so intense that they produced a near-daily flood of lurid allegations, with the Russia, Russia, Russia hoax being the grand climax.

But Trump 2.0 is turning out to be a far different story, though not because the press has decided to be fair in its coverage. Far from it.

Many editors and reporters are still predicting the end of the world every time he says or does something they don’t like. Their definition of a scandal is when he deviates from past presidents, as if the Oval Office is a straitjacket.

Take recent front page headlines in The New York Times describing the president’s moves and agenda:

“A Fusillade of Actions That Have Upended American Life”

“Behind The Rush To Discard Rules And Reshape Life”

“Driven by Vengeance, Trump Shreds Rules On His Crusade”

Rabbi Sholom Ber Lipskar, Renowned Spiritual Leader of Bal Harbour Shul in Surfside and Founder of Aleph Institute, Passes Away


Rabbi Sholom Ber Lipskar z”l, the revered Rabbi of Bal Harbour Shul in Surfside and the founder of the Aleph Institute, has passed away on Shabbos at the age of 77. His death marks a profound loss for the community he served so faithfully, both locally in Surfside and across the global Jewish world.

Rabbi Lipsker was widely respected for his deep Torah knowledge, wisdom, and compassionate leadership. For many years, he guided the congregants of Bel Harbous Shul, creating a warm, welcoming environment where spiritual growth and community connection flourished. His ability to offer counsel, comfort, and direction made him a trusted figure in his community.

Rabbi Lipsker’s influence reached far beyond his congregation, especially after the tragic collapse of the Champlain Towers South in Surfside in June 2021. In the aftermath of the disaster, Rabbi Lipsker became a steady source of strength, providing spiritual guidance and support to grieving families, offering a sense of calm and compassion when it was most needed. His leadership during this crisis cemented his legacy as a trusted and respected figure both within and outside his community.

In addition to his work as a rabbi, Rabbi Lipsker founded the Aleph Institute, an organization dedicated to providing vital spiritual, legal, and emotional support to Jewish prisoners across the United States and globally. Through Aleph, Rabbi Lipsker ensured that Jewish inmates had access to rabbinic guidance, religious items, and a continued connection to their faith while incarcerated. The Aleph Institute also worked on legal advocacy, ensuring that prisoners’ religious rights were upheld, and provided crucial reintegration programs for those released from prison.

Rabbi Lipsker’s efforts through Aleph were instrumental in helping countless Jewish individuals maintain their religious practices while incarcerated, providing them with a support system during a difficult time. His work touched the lives of many, reinforcing his belief in the importance of community, compassion, and support for those in need.

Rabbi Lipsker was also well-known and highly respected among politicians across the United States. Many local government officials, as well as national figures, always made sure to connect with him during their visits to Florida. Rabbi Lipsker enjoyed strong relationships with these leaders, and his wisdom and counsel were often sought after. He was especially close to local government officials, who held him in the highest regard for his leadership, dedication to the community, and unwavering support for Jewish causes.

The loss of Rabbi Lipsker is deeply felt by all who knew him. His teachings, leadership, and dedication to his community will continue to inspire and guide future generations.

Massive Explosion in Iran Causes 4.0 Mag Earthquake in Alborz Province AND anti-aircraft fire near Natanz


 Iran: 4.0 magnitude earthquake strikes Mahdasht in Alborz Province. 

The quake occurred 8 kilometers below the surface.


Unconfirmed footage shows explosions and anti-aircraft fire near Natanz (Isfahan)
Natanz is one of Iran’s key nuclear sites. Reports are still developing.




Saturday, May 3, 2025

United States Institute of Peace Had $130k Contract .....With an Ex-Member of the Taliban!

 

DOGE employee:

"We actually went into the [United States Institute of Peace] and found they had loaded guns inside their headquarters... 

Additionally, we found they were spending money on things like private jets, and they even had a $130K contract with a former member of the Taliban."

77 awesome things about Medinas Yisrael!



In honor of Israel’s 77th birthday, we reflect on the things we appreciate about our economic and financial systems.

Yes, despite these hard times, VAT and overall tax increases, major economic challenges, and looming US tariffs, there is still so much good worth celebrating. Without a doubt, our incredible Israeli resilience and innovative spirit promises better times ahead in this miracle country that has been built in 77 short years. So here is my list of 77 awesome things about Israel’s economy:

Government & Economy
Despite everything we’ve faced in the past year, our economic foundation remains strong, a testament to Israeli ingenuity and determination.

  1. A resilient economy continues to show growth despite the war.
  2. Google’s acquisition of Wiz for $32 billion, proof that we continue to be a tech giant.
  3. The shekel remains stable as a global currency.
  4. The Sal Klita (Absorption Basket) currently provides financial support for new immigrants.
  5. Free Ulpan programs help immigrants integrate linguistically and culturally.
  6. Strong economic leadership from the Bank of Israel, resulting in economic stability.
  7. Monthly child stipends from Bituach Leumi, the National Insurance system.
  8. Improved digital government services that reduce bureaucracy.
  9. Electricity reform now provides consumers with a choice of providers.
  10. The introduction of a new category for small business owners, Esek Za’ir, helps reduce bureaucracy and paperwork.

Health Care
Our healthcare system is unique in that both services and innovations continue to be added, with more services available in other languages.

  1. Universal healthcare system with minimal out-of-pocket costs.
  2. Free hospital services.
  3. An extensive list of affordable medication.
  4. Birth grants (ma’anak leidah) that support new mothers.
  5. Free dental care has been expanded to cover children under 18.
  6. Paid maternity leave of 15 weeks (can be split between working spouses).
  7. Healthcare services becoming more available in English.
  8. World-class leader in fertility treatments at minimal cost.
  9. Telemedicine initiatives that are expanding healthcare access.

Savings & Investments
I often tell my clients that Israel has developed some remarkably clever savings vehicles that many people, especially new olim, do not use fully! These programs help us build financial security while navigating Israel’s unique economic landscape. *Not all are suitable for Americans, so please ask your CPA.

  1. Mandatory pension systems that ensure retirement security.
  2. Tax-free Keren Hishtalmut savings that provide mid-term investment options.
  3. Tax-advantaged investment plans, such as Kupot Gemel Lehashka’ah.
  4. Government savings plans for children.

NY Magazine Trying To Push Out John Fetterman With Fake News Stories

 




Recent article from NY Magazine that Senator John Fetterman is unable to continue his duties as Senator.

For some reason, no one seemed to have cared about John’s mental acuity when he was running for senator, and his aligned views with the progressives.

Which is why many people view this NYMag hit piece on Fetterman as solely motivated by his support for Israel. Nothing more.

There’s a lot more brain damage and mental illness in the Democratic Party than anything anyone ever seen from John Fetterman. Sick party.

Ramat Beit Shemesh Residents Fighting Satmar Hooligans That are Tearing Israeli Flags Down!

 







United Airlines flight to Israel allegedly turned around after Jewish passenger sat in attendant’s seat



These skies were not friendly toward Jews, a lawsuit claims.

A United Airlines crew allegedly turned a flight with a significant number of Jewish passengers around after one sat in a flight attendant’s seat while waiting for the restroom, according to a lawsuit.

Nearly 60 passengers claimed the April 22, 2023 flight from Newark to Tel Aviv was returned to New Jersey “after hours of flight for no valid reason” — simply because many of them were Jewish, according to the Manhattan Supreme Court papers.

The flight crew allegedly “blamed all the rest of the passengers” after one person briefly sat in the flight attendant’s spot while waiting to use the bathroom, resulting in the “ill-trained and/or unvetted crew” to act with “prejudice,” the suit claimed.

Many of the passengers in question were “visibly Jews,” on their way to Israel to celebrate Yom Hazikaron, Israel’s national day of remembrance, and Yom Ha’atzmaut, Israel’s Independence Day.

The passengers got no help booking new trips once the flight returned to Newark, and when one asked for assistance, they were allegedly told by a flight attendant, “Go ask your own kind,” according to the litigation.

“We want to see sensitivity training,” said attorney Yoram Nachimovsky, who is also seeking unspecified damages. “If one person is acting bad it doesn’t mean everyone around them is responsible.” 

“We have reviewed the incident, and the plaintiffs’ claims are meritless,” United said in a statement.

“One passenger who was a safety and security risk caused the flight to return to Newark. Our crew put safety first and exhibited professionalism in managing this matter, and we will vigorously defend against these false allegations,” the company added.

400 ultra-Orthodox men joined the IDF this week, the military announced.

 


Among them are 196 assigned to combat roles and 167 to combat support positions, while another 23 recruits are still awaiting final placement. The combat soldiers have been distributed across several units: 105 to the Netzah Yehuda Battalion in the Kfir Brigade, 48 to the Hasmonean Brigade, 19 to the Tomer Company of the Givati Brigade’s Rotem Battalion, 20 to the Hetz Company of the Paratroopers Brigade’s 202nd Battalion, and four to the ground defense unit at Nevatim Airbase.

In addition to these conscripts, 26 older Haredi men joined as reservists after completing the “Shlav Bet” (Stage B) track— a basic two-week training course for older recruits assigned to non-combat roles. These reservists, along with another 100, are slated to begin an intensive six-month combat training course next week, preparing them to serve in the Hasmonean Brigade’s reserve unit.

The IDF emphasized its ongoing commitment to increasing ultra-Orthodox enlistment while respecting their religious practices and tailoring service conditions accordingly. As part of a broader push that began last summer, the army is nearing completion of distributing 24,000 draft notices to Haredi men. An estimated 70,000 ultra-Orthodox males are currently considered eligible for military service.

For the first time, initial draft notices are also being sent to all Israelis upon reaching age 16.5 — including Haredim, who were previously excluded — though actual enlistment begins at 18.

Despite a current need for 10,000 new troops — 70% of whom are intended for combat roles — the IDF says it can only absorb around 3,000 additional ultra-Orthodox soldiers this year due to the need for tailored accommodations. This would supplement the approximately 1,800 Haredi men who already enlist each year.

Harav Shmuel Kamenetsky Urges Everyone to Vote in WZO Elections!

 

Hagaon Rav Shmuel Kamenetsky Shlita grants permission to publicize that he both permits and encourages those who are concerned about Kedushas Eretz Yisroel to vote in the current WZO elections for the Eretz Hakodesh Slate.

Rabbi David Kushner, a lifelong resident of Philadelphia, a globally respected askan, and someone with a close relationship with the R’Y has sought guidance and clarity on this issue from the R”Y multiple times, including as late as today, erev shabbos kodesh, just a couple days prior to the end of the voting period.

After speaking with the R’Y again today, Rabbi Kushner sent us the following detailed update……

“I am reaching out to inform you that the R”Y, Rav Shmuel Kamenetsky Shlita has given permission to be mefarsem and share with the tzibbur his unwavering encouragement to participate, vote, and solicit others in our community to do the same in the ongoing WZO elections on behalf of the Eretz Hakodesh Slate.

5 years ago, I went to the R’Y Shlita to speak over this topic and he encouraged me to vote and solicit others to vote as well.

6 months ago, I went to the R’Y Shlita to speak over this topic again, and he encouraged me tnot only to vote and solicit others to vote, but to also join the Eretz Hakodesh slate as a delegate.

1 month ago, after there were a number of statements discouraging participation in the election, and numerous public claims that the R’Y Rav Shmuel Shlita wad rescinded his support, I went back to the R’Y to ask him myself and in person - He clearly stated that I should remain a delegate, I should vote for Eretz Hakodesh, I Should encourage others to vote, and that There were numerous mitzvos involved in participating in the election in this manner.

1 Hour ago,erev shabbos, just 2 days prior to the end of the voting period, I came back to the R”Y one more time, and he made it very clear that his position has not changed, that we need to protect Kedushas Eretz Yisroel, and that voting for Eretz Hakodesh in the WZO elections is a worthwhile form of hishtadlus to help that cause.

The R’Y also expressed a sense of sadness regarding the amount of misinformation that has been spread regarding positions of different Gedolim and the manner in which Chalukei Daos amongst Talmidei Chachomim and Gedolei Hador have been transmitted to the Tzibbur.

The R’Y ended the conversation with Brachos for Siyata D’shmaya, a renewed sense of Kavod for Daas Torah even when there are chulkai daos, hachzokas kedushas eretz yisroel,, and hatzlacha for the Eretz Hakodesh slate in the elections and in their ongoing Avodas Hakodesh,”


This is איק closest we have gotten to confirming Rav Shmuel Shlita ratzon to be mefarsim that he holds it’s a Mitzva to vote …