The 18th day of Elul, ('CHAI ELUL' — last Thursday), inaugurated a 12-day countdown [see Featured Articles on the Home Page] — one day per month of the old year 5785—till Rosh Hashana 5786.
Articles 5 & 6 are for this week's Torah reading, Nitzavim while #4 connects the reading to Rosh Hashana.
On Saturday night Askenazic Jews started the distinctive pre-Rosh Hashana Selichot / "Forgiveness" prayers — see our lead article [Sephardim have been reciting them for 2 1/2 weeks already].
Be Prepared! Rosh HaShana starts next week on Monday night (see articles #2 & 3 for a preview).