New JFK Airport Website Includes Real-Time Security Wait Times
The new JFK website, launched in March 2026, received a major redesign and update.
A standout feature is the prominent real-time security wait times display on the homepage, showing estimated waits for General and TSA PreCheck lanes at each terminal (1, 4, 5, 7, and 8). These times are calculated and refreshed in real time every few minutes, allowing travelers to plan arrivals more effectively.
The site also includes an interactive airport map, enhanced departure/arrival info, connection guides, and details on the ongoing $19 billion redevelopment project, making it a more user-friendly hub for passengers navigating one of the world's busiest airports.
For the most current view, check the site
directly below, as times fluctuate based on flight volume and other factors.
Flashing Headlights in New York: Is It Legal?
Drivers often flash headlights to communicate
- To signal headlights are off
- Indicate intention to pass
- Warn of road conditions ahead
- Alert about a police speed trap.
In NY, flashing headlights is generally legal as NY Vehicle and Traffic Law requires that headlights not produce “dazzling light” that interferes with oncoming drivers.
Courts determined that briefly flashing high beams does not violate this rule and motorists cannot be stopped solely for flashing their headlights, including when warning other drivers.
Penalties Increase for Passing Stopped School Buses
As of February 16, passing a stopped school bus in NY now results in eight points on your license, up from five, under updated DMV rules. Drivers who accumulate 11 points within 18 months may face license suspension.
Penalties also include fines and possible jail time:
- First offense: $250–$400 fine and/or up to 30 days in jail
- Second offense (within 3 years): $600–$750 fine and/or up to 180 days in jail
- Third or subsequent offense (within 3 years): Up to $1,000 fine and/or up to 180 days in jail
The tougher penalties are intended to deter drivers from illegally passing stopped school buses.
Pesach UK Travelers: UK Citizens Now Required to Use British Passport
As of Feb. 25, 2026, the United Kingdom requires all British citizens, including dual nationals and those born abroad to present a valid British passport to enter the UK. Travelers without proper documentation may be denied boarding by airlines or refused entry upon arrival.
This new rule affects individuals with British citizenship by descent, including children born in the United States to British parents.
Families planning to travel to the UK for Pesach should be especially aware, as obtaining a first-time British passport can take several months.
“A new law like this has serious implications for families planning international travel on short notice,” said Avi Greenstein, CEO of BPJCC. “With Pesach just around the corner, citizenship alone no longer guarantees passage. Anyone with British citizenship but without a British passport should apply as soon as possible to avoid being denied boarding.”
For further guidance, individuals should consult official UK government travel resources.
$15–$20 Home Internet for Eligible NY Residents
New York State’s Affordable Broadband Act now makes low-cost home internet available to income-qualified households across the state. This first-in-the-nation law recognizes broadband as a basic utility and requires internet providers operating in NYS to offer qualifying households a plan for $15–$20 per month (including fees and taxes).
Boro Park residents may qualify if their household participates in programs such as SNAP, Medicaid, free or reduced-price school lunch, HEAP, or rent increase exemption programs for seniors or individuals with disabilities. United Way’s 211 NY is helping residents check
eligibility and enroll. Call 2-1-1 to learn more or schedule enrollment assistance.
To check which providers offer the discounted rate in your area,
enter your address on the NYS Broadband Map by clicking on the button below.
Then call your current internet provider if included and ask specifically for their Affordable Broadband Act plan.
If you don’t currently have service, contact major providers serving Brooklyn and ask about their NYS Affordable Broadband plan.
Apply for $1,000 Federal Seed Contribution for Eligible Children
Parents can now apply for the $1,000 federal seed contribution available through the new Trump Account program for eligible children born between January 1, 2025 and December 31, 2028. By opening a Trump Account and submitting the required IRS Form 4547 through the official government portal, qualifying families can secure this one-time deposit to help jumpstart their child’s long-term savings.
New TSA REAL ID Policy Takes Effect February 1
Starting February 1, travelers without a REAL ID will be
required to pay a $45 fee to verify their identity before passing through TSA
checkpoints. The fee is part of the new TSA ConfirmID process, which allows
access to air travel for those who do not have a REAL ID or other acceptable
forms of identification. Travelers without a REAL ID will need to complete an
online verification process to obtain a confirmation receipt, which is valid
for 10 days.
Plan ahead and ensure you have a valid ID to avoid delays or missed flights.
$1,800 Baby Benefits for Eligible New Yorkers
The new NYS Baby Benefit will direct $1,800 to families welcoming newborns on or after November 5, 2025.
The funds, which are part of the NYS FY26 Enacted Budget, will provide a one-time cash payment that will be deposited directly onto the household’s EBT card and may be used with no spending restrictions.
Beware of New York's Slow Poke Law
New York's Slow Poke Law keeps traffic flowing and roads safe.
The New York State law requires drivers to stay in the right lane unless
- Passing another vehicle
- Avoiding a pedestrian, cyclist, animal, or road hazard
- Driving on a three-lane or one-way road
- Using an authorized shoulder or slope
The law also requires that vehicles moving slower than traffic to stay right or near the curb, unless passing or preparing for a left turn. The left lane is for passing only—even if you're at the speed limit, staying there without passing is a violation.
Penalties for Violating the Slow Poke Law can result in
- 3 points on your license
- Up to a $150 fine (first offense)
- A $93 surcharge
- Higher insurance premiums
To avoid penalties:
- Use the left lane only to pass, then return right.
- Drive at the normal speed of traffic or stay right.
- Watch for road signs and hazards requiring lane changes.
- Plan left turns carefully to avoid lingering.
For more on New York's traffic rules click below.
Tips to Safeguard Against EBT Scams
Tip #1 Prevent EBT Spoofing
Safeguard Your EBT Benefits Against Scams
Spoofing occurs when scammers falsify caller ID information to disguise their
identity, often posing as EBT Customer Service or DSS One Number.
To protect yourself, never share personal information in response to unsolicited phone calls, even if the caller ID appears legitimate.
Be cautious of any unexpected calls requesting EBT card details or PIN.
Tip #2: Prevent Skimming & Card Cloning
Safeguard Your EBT Benefits Against Scams
Skimming or card cloning happens when thieves electronically steal your EBT benefits, even if you still have your card. This can occur anywhere you swipe your EBT card. To stay safe
- Change your PIN frequently and avoid easy-to-guess PINs like repeated or consecutive numbers. Never share your PIN, even with someone claiming to be from HRA or threatening case closure.
Tip #3: Freeze Your EBT Card When Not in Use
Freezing your EBT card when it is not in use is a powerful way to protect against scam-related theft.
To freeze or unfreeze your card log in to the ebtEDGE Cardholder Portal by clicking below.
Select “Freeze Card” or “Unfreeze Card” under Account Services.
This feature prevents unauthorized transactions when you are not using your card.
Tip #4: Block Online and Out-of-State Purchases
Protect your EBT account by blocking transactions that occur online or outside New York State. To manage this
- Visit the ebtEDGE Cardholder Portal by clicking below.
- Select “Protect My Account” under Account Services to turn these restrictions ON or OFF to limit unauthorized purchases.
Tip #5: Regularly Review Your EBT Account
Safeguard Your EBT Benefits Against Scams
Stay vigilant by checking your EBT account regularly for suspicious activity. To protect your benefits:
- Review your account transactions and balances frequently via the ebtEdge mobile app or clicking above to access the ebtEDGE Cardholder Portal.
- Immediately report a lost or stolen card if you notice questionable transactions by calling the EBT Customer Service Helpline at 888-328-6399 or using the ebtEDGE app or the website below.
Tip #6: Report Suspicious Devices
Safeguard Your EBT Benefits Against Scams
Skimming devices can be placed on card readers to steal your EBT information.
- If you suspect a skimmer is attached to a card reader, alert the retailer immediately and avoid using the machine.
- Report any suspicious devices to the EBT Customer Service Helpline at 888-328-6399.
Tip #7: Inspect Card Swipe Machines Carefully
Before swiping your EBT card, check ATMs and card readers for signs of tampering to avoid skimming devices. Look for
- Uneven or soft keypads.
- Dented, loose, or misaligned parts.
- Components that are a different color or style from the rest of the machine.
If anything seems off, avoid using the device and notify the retailer.
Save Time With Easy and Secure Online or By-Mail Passport Application and Renewal Service
No more long waits at the post office. Renew your passport online or by mail.
Click below to learn how to renew your passport online or by mail, get it changed or corrected, or what to do if it expires soon.
Warning: Some countries and airlines deny entry if your passport expires in less than 6 months.
Renew early, as passport processing times vary.
HEAP - Heating Equipment Repair/Replacement Benefit
Eligible homeowners can avail themselves of the Heating Equipment Repair and Replacement benefit to help repair or replace a household's furnace, boiler, and other direct heating equipment.
Benefit amounts are based on the cost incurred to repair or replace the furnace, boiler, and/or other essential heating equipment.
- $4,000 for a repair
- $8,000 for a replacement
NOTE: Online applications are not available for this benefit.
2026 HEAP Clean and Tune Benefit
Eligible households can receive energy efficiency services, including
- Cleaning of primary heating equipment
- Chimney cleaning
- Minor repairs
- Installation of carbon monoxide detectors
- Installation of programmable thermostats
Benefit amounts are based on the actual cost incurred to provide clean and tune services, up to a maximum of $500.
- Household eligibility requirements include
- Filing an application with the local Department of Social Services
- Providing all necessary documentation
- Residing in an eligible living situation
Get Free Books by Mail
Brooklyn Public Library (BPL) offers a free delivery service for homebound seniors and people with a disability. Books are delivered by mail in a reusable envelope and are
returned with prepaid postage.
To register, click on the link below for the printable form, have it signed by a doctor, nurse, or social worker and return it by mail or fax.
BPL Books by Mail service can be reached at (718) 236-1760.
Find Unclaimed Funds
New New York State legislation has enabled the Office of the State Comptroller to expedite certain unclaimed funds payments of $250 or less.
Every day, the NYS Comptroller's office returns over $1.5 million.
Check today if any of that money is meant for you.
Click on the button below to search for any unclaimed funds associated with your name.
Try your legal name, nickname and first initial.
Explore a large variety of resources
from venues, restaurants, parking garages, local businesses and much more.
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