Dear Editor,
I am writing to correct several inaccuracies in your recent column (“Let’s Follow the Money,” From the Editor, March 21, 2025) regarding the Eretz Hakodesh slate in the upcoming World Zionist Congress (WZC) elections and to provide additional context on some of the issues you raised.
- You stated that there was a “gathering in Lakewood by students of BMG to protest against the participation of Torah organizations in the current WZC vote.” This is incorrect. While students were indeed present at the asifa in Lakewood, it was not organized by them but rather by the BMG roshei yeshiva. They were alarmed that Eretz Hakodesh is urging the Lakewood community to align with an organization that, in their view, does not represent their values. In fact, many of these so-called “students”—many of whom are married and learning in kollel—were compelled by their rebbeim to attend the gathering. It has reached the point where Eretz Hakodesh has effectively been pushed out of Lakewood.
- You claimed that “the so-called yeshiva world is for the most part okay with the millions of dollars being distributed through this process.” The Kol Korei issued by the Moetzes Gedolei HaTorah of Agudath Israel of America contradicts this assertion. Their proclamation explicitly states that voting is forbidden (asur) and that participating in the election constitutes a massive chillul Hashem. For those who have not read the Kol Korei, it is available at https://agudah.org/kol-korei-regarding-the-elections-for-the-wzo.
Moreover, the Eretz Hakodesh advertisements claim that their slate was “established by Gedolei Yisroel.” Who are these anonymous Gedolim? It is peculiar that not a single name or institution is listed. The truth is that not a single universally recognized Gadol b’Yisrael has publicly endorsed this slate. While Eretz Hakodesh may be spending millions to secure votes, the support of the Gedolei Yisrael is not something that can be purchased.
- You stated that “it’s sad to say that those who stand in opposition to this vote embolden the enemies of the Jewish people.” This position creates confusion: who exactly are you referring to by “those who stand in opposition”? Agudath Israel of America? Rav Aharon Feldman? 5T & Far Rockaway community members who are voting for OIC-Mizrachi to ensure that our community’s lone soldiers and bnot sherut receive funding?
By voting for Eretz Hakodesh, you are voting for the allocation of funds primarily towards yeshivot (non-Hesder, of course) and community tzedakot. Voting for OIC-Mizrachi means you are committing to support both yeshivot and our IDF heroes—including the tens of thousands of Hesder students—organizations dedicated to chesed in Israel, and partnering with the major institutions that work tirelessly to uphold Torah values. The Five Towns & Far Rockaway community deserves to have the full picture so they can make an informed decision regarding the WZC elections.
Sincerely,
Michal Schechter
Support for Anthony D’Esposito
Dear Editor,
I read with interest former Congressman Anthony D’Esposito’s weekly columns in your paper. It pains me to refer to Mr. D’Esposito as “former,” but as the saying goes “elections have consequences.” His column in the March 28 issue (“Political Support Must Be Earned”) of the paper struck me as especially poignant. I do not have to go into all the negatives Mr. D’Esposito enumerates in regard to Rep. Laura Gillen, and incidentally many of his criticisms of Rep. Gillen can also be applied to Rep. Tom Suozzi of the 3rd district.
I have written previously in this publication and others cautioning against our community supporting Democrats. Not much can be done regarding the voting habits of people in liberal areas of Nassau County. But unless you have a serious case of TDS (Trump Derangement Syndrome) there is no excuse for voters in this community to vote Democrat. It’s gratifying to see that voting habits are slowly changing in this area. I understand that life gets in the way, most people don’t have the time to pay attention to everything going on around them. Not everyone is a political junkie like I am. If I don’t know the latest news, I get this uneasy feeling. I am proud of the fact that the last time I voted for a Democrat was 48 years ago and have not missed voting in decades. This is not to give the impression that I am thrilled with every Republican I ever voted for, far from it. But it is always the better choice. In Anthony D’Esposito’s case this community has a true and devoted ally. If you are concerned with the welfare of this nation, Israel, and your community, it is imperative to re-elect Anthony D’Esposito. I supported, contributed to, and voted in two election cycles for Congressman D’Esposito and will do so again. I urge everyone reading this to do likewise. If you missed Mr. D’Esposito’s column, go and look it up on this publication’s website. It’s worth your time.
Thomas Lax
Woodmere
Byline Correction
Dear Editor,
I wrote the article, “4G Convention 2025,” which appeared in last week’s newspaper. The byline listed SKA next to my name, however I am privileged to attend HANC (Hebrew Academy of Nassau County) in Uniondale, not SKA.
I am a senior at HANC and will soon be saying goodbye to the place I have called my second home since I was two years old. Through the years, HANC has taught me how to be a proud Jew, how to grow in my emunah and spirituality, how to be a critical thinker, and how to seek out academic and leadership opportunities at every level. I just wanted to take the opportunity to correct the record and express my deepest hakarat hatovto all of the teachers and role models at HANC who helped me become who I am today.
Sincerely,
Eden Rosenstock
West Hempstead