Thursday February 19 News Updates Lakewood

 Weather: 41° Overcast. Slight chance of an afternoon shower tomorrow more rain 

Snow storm update: Watching a potential winter storm Sunday into Monday . Periods of snow Chance of snow 80%. 3 to 5 inches of snow expected.

- WSJ: Iran has rejected a sweeping U.S. nuclear proposal that required halting high level uranium enrichment, curbing its ballistic missile program, and restricting support for its regional proxies.

- Instead, Tehran countered with far narrower concessions, offering only limited adjustments to its nuclear activity.

- United airlines  Slashes Basic And Non-Cardholder Mileage Earnings, Increases Earnings And Discounts For Cardholders And Their Kids! Dansdeals  

- According to the New York Times, the second aircraft carrier, the Gerald Ford, and its three destroyer escorts could be in the Mediterranean by the weekend or early next week, military officials said. The Ford is likely to be deployed initially near the coast of Israel to defend Tel Aviv and other Israeli cities and towns, officials said.

- President Donald Trump indicates he’ll be making a decision on a potential strike against Iran in the next 10 days.

- Senator Lindsey Graham: The American decision regarding Iran has already been made. None of these ships is coming here just because the weather is nice at this time of year.

- Giyus: The Charedi parties are expected to receive the draft of the new conscription (giyus) law within the coming days, which will be presented to senior roshei yeshiva and rabbonim for final approval before moving toward a vote. A final decision has not yet been made whether to proceed with the current version, despite concerns it could face challenges and potentially be struck down by Israel’s High Court of Justice.

- Mir Yerushalayim Shabbos at Tallymawr in Toms River this week with Rav Yosef Elefanst shlita

- Bonei Olam Lakewood event tonight at Lake Terrace hall 

- US President Donald Trump says he’s going to be appointing his son-in-law, Jared Kushner, to the role of “peace envoy.”

- Ahead of Pesach, the meat departments in several supermarkets across Lakewood have already transitioned to kosher-for-Pesach production, as stores begin early preparations for the upcoming Yom Tov.

- The Diaspora Yeshiva of yerushalayim marked its 60th anniversary last night with a celebration at Binyanei HaUma, featuring a reunion performance by members of its famed band. Watch the replay here

- President Trump, Vice President Vance and top administration officials take part in a group photo ahead of the first Board of Peace meeting in Washington, DC.

- Prince Andrew of England was arrested on 'Suspicion of Misconduct in Public Office' following Epstein files revelations.

- Student loan Borrowers allegedly harmed by the educational loan finance company Navient are beginning to receive payments from a $100 million compensation fund

- A recent letter dated chodesh shevat 5786 from gedolei yisroel in Eretz Yisroel and the USA including the Lakewood Roshei yeshiva “We are stating our opinion, that because the situation of the wigs in recent years is getting worse and worse, and the great Poskim have already declared that many of the wigs of today are forbidden by halacha, therefore certainly covering one’s hair with a headscarf is a big correction of this matter, and one must strengthen and encourage those who make the effort to do so.".

- Jackson: Voters in Jackson Township will decide this Saturday on millions of dollars in fire district budgets and commissioner appointments, as officials continue debating a possible consolidation of the township’s three fire districts, which together cost taxpayers over $16 million annually. The polls will be open motzei shabbos

- New Jersey ranked as the second-highest earning state in the nation for the second consecutive year, with a median household income of $104,294 in 2025, according to the American Community Survey. The figure marks an increase from $99,781 the previous year, trailing only Massachusetts, which topped the list at $104,828.

- BDE: Petirah of Reb Yitzchok Surkis, z"l, at the age of 62. He was a prominent Skverer chossid known as a masmid who could always be found with a Gemara, he was the cook for thousands of children over the years and was known for his humor and his kind words for everyone he encountered Levaya today in Skver 2 pm 

- Wildwood NJ mayor and deputy mayor are facing corruption charges alleging they improperly received government health benefits worth hundreds of thousands of dollars.The defense says were selectively prosecuted, singled out by authorities for accepting benefits that other elected officials in New Jersey also took.

Mishenichnas Adar Maaaarbin Besimcha

Israel News Thursday Feb 19

- President Donald Trump’s Board of Peace will hold an inaugural meeting today in Washington, where it aims to advance the reconstruction of Gaza despite looming questions over whether Hamas will agree to disarm and Israel will consent to further withdraw from the Strip so the planned rebuild can move ahead.

- President Donald Trump asserts that the war in Gaza is over, even if there are “little flames” that persist. “If Hamas don’t give up weapons, they’ll be harshly met,” Trump warns.

-The Trump administration is planning to build a military base in Gaza covering more than 350 dunams, to accommodate thousands of international force troops. The base will be surrounded by 26 watchtowers and will include bunkers (Guardian)

- President Donald Trump announces that Washington will contribute $10 billion to the Board of Peace tasked with overseeing the postwar management of Gaza.

- President Donald Trump announces that Indonesia, Morocco, Albania, Kosovo, and Kazakhstan have all committed troops and police to the International Stabilization Force tasked with securing postwar Gaza.“Egypt and Jordan are providing very substantial help, troops, training and support for a very trustworthy Palestinian police force,” Trump adds.

- Hamas is strengthening its control over Gaza by appointing loyal officials and maintaining tax collection and salary payments, according to Israeli assessments. The continued dominance of the group has increased doubts about the feasibility of Donald Trump’s peace plan, which requires Hamas to disarm in exchange for an Israeli withdrawal. (TOI)

 - A kilometer-long Hamas tunnel in northern Gaza’s Beit Hanoun was recently demolished by combat engineers, the military says.According to the IDF, the tunnel featured several rooms where Hamas operatives would hide out. Inside, the army says troops found several explosive devices.

- President Donald Trump announces that Washington will contribute $10 billion to the Board of Peace tasked with overseeing the postwar management of Gaza.

Hashkafa Q&A

Hashkafa with Rav Gershon Ribner shlita Tactics for rebbi seeking a promotion A rebbi refuting harshly his talmid’s insights The axiomatic point that separates Chassidim from Misnagdim Masmid complains of lack of harmony in his marriage

Oif Simchas Wed 2 Adar

Chasunas:

Rottemberg - Greenberg  Kesser Moshe Yehuda

Friedman - Braun Fountain Ballroom

Hirtenfeld - Snow Bais Faiga

Hellman - Weiss Lake Terrace

Weitz - Mermelstein Ateres Esther

Paskesz - Weider Ateres Chaim Elazar 

Pinter - Ehrenfeld Ne'emas Hachaim 

Wednesday February 18 Rosh Chodesh Adar News Updates

Weather:  45° Overcast with rain showers at times. Chance of rain 50%.

Updated forecast for Sunday evening Chance of snow 60%. Snow accumulating 1 to 3 inches.

- Newark Airport remains closed until 11 p.m. Wednesday after a ground stop was issued due to an aircraft emergency. Port Authority of New York and New Jersey said a JetBlue flight heading to Palm Beach, Florida, reported smoke in the cockpit & Returned safely

- Forecasts from Weather Channel and AccuWeather are closely monitoring a potential weekend snowstorm that could bring significant snow, rain, wind and coastal flooding to Mid-Atlantic states.

- U.S. national security officials have told Trump the military is ready for potential strikes on Iran as soon as this weekend, though no final decision has been made. The Pentagon is also repositioning some personnel out of the Middle East as a precaution - CBS

- Rav Asher Arieli shlita spoke at the Mir Yerushalayim event and addressed the voices and attacks coming from outside against the עולם התורה. He described these challenges as a nisayon from Hashem. However, he emphasized that the true response is the sight of bnei yeshiva who are moser nefesh for Torah learning. Many of those learning in Mir are well past draft age and could easily go out into the world, yet they choose to remain and dedicate themselves to Torah. That mesirus nefesh for the nitzchiyus for what endures for eternity is the greatest answer of all.

- Israeli emergency services and the Home Front Command have been ordered to prepare for potential war amid tensions with Iran with a high-level defensive alert having been declared across Israel, according to N12.

- Tucker Carlson claims he was detained at Israel's Ben Gurion Airport after interviewing US Ambassador Mike Huckabee, with passports seized and his producer questioned. However, the US Embassy denies this, stating it was routine passport control 

 Israeli Airports Authority statement: Contrary to the reports, Tucker Carlson and his entourage were not detained, delayed, or interrogated. Mr. Carlson and his party were politely asked a few routine questions, in accordance with standard procedures applied to many travelers. The conversation took place in a separate room within the VIP lounge solely to protect their privacy and to avoid conducting such a discussion in public. No unusual incident occurred, and the Israel Airports Authority firmly rejects any other claims.

- Trump in a long post: “Should Iran decide not to make a Deal, it may be necessary for the United States to use Diego Garcia, and the Airfield located in Fairford, in order to eradicate a potential attack by a highly unstable and dangerous Regime…”

- Live stream of the Mir Yerushalayim Adirei haTorah style event featuring drashos from Rav Asher Arieli Rav Efraim Waxman and music by Boruch Levine, Zanvill Weinberger Bentz Stein at the Arena stadium in Yerushalayim beginning 12:30 pm US time 

Phone hook up : 732-929-7410 pin 5483787326

Livestream: HERE 

-At the Kosel this morning, Women of the Wall held their Rosh Chodesh provocation gathering, as they arrived with tefillin and a sefer Torah drawing strong opposition from the crowd. The supreme court is hearing a case to give the reform movement a spot at the Kosel

- Snow storm stats: According to Lakewood Township officials, more than 11,000 tons of snow about 22 million pounds were cleared from roadways and hauled to Blueclaws stadium for disposal. Crews worked for weeks to clear both major thoroughfares and residential streets including using roughly 2,000 tons of salt and 2,000 gallons of calcium chloride to enhance ice melting during extreme cold.

- Trump moves closer to a major war with Iran. It could come sooner, and be much bigger, than most recognize Axios

The USS Gerald R. Ford aircraft carrier strike group is currently off the coast of Morocco.

A large formation of U.S. Air Force aerial refueling tankers has departed Florida and is heading to the Middle East

- Sources say a possible U.S.- Iran confrontation could begin within days and evolve into a multi-week campaign, despite ongoing nuclear talks. Axios reported a high likelihood of a strike in the coming weeks with a White House official putting the chances of a strike at 90 percent.

- A scheduled Lakewood planning board meeting for last night has been cancelled

- The Bobover Rebbe Rav bentzion Halbershtam was in Lakewood at a fundraising event for the local Bobover Kollel

- The next time Rosh Chodesh Adar comes out on Tuesday and Wednesday in a plain non leap year will be 14 years from now (Kol Mevaser)

- President Trump posted a video reporting on shocking news of states that used the Dominion voting systems allegedly switching 435,000 votes from Trump to Biden and also 2.7 million votes for Trump were deleted, including 1 million in swing state Pennsylvania alone. Examinations showed Dominion machines were linked to the internet with ties to China.

- An IDF soldier was killed in an incident of “friendly fire” in the southern Gaza Strip overnight, The soldier was named as Ofri Yafe, 21 from HaYogev

- 23 N.J. towns with the highest property taxes where average homeowners pay $20K+ 2 towns in Monmouth and Ocean county on the list 

5. Deal, Monmouth County

Average property taxes: $25,563

Average property value: $6,225,131

Increase from 2024: 9.95%

4. Mantoloking, Ocean County

Average property taxes: $25,985

Average property value: $2,851,976

- Tucker Carlson will NOT leave Ben Gurion airport in Tel Aviv. Tucker Carlson is expected to arrive in Israel on Thursday for a brief visit. Carlson will land in Israel on a private plane but will NOT leave the Airport area despite having received official invitations from Christian communities in Israel. The official reason for his visit to the country is an interview with the U.S. Ambassador to Israel.

- Construction on the New Jersey-New York Gateway Tunnel Project will resume next week after the Trump administration released the remaining $127 million in frozen federal funding today.

- Gentell, the world’s largest vertically integrated wound care company, announced its acquisition of Innovative Supply Group (ISG), based in Lakewood, N.J. ISG is a leading North American Medicare Part B supplier of medical tube devices to the nursing home industry.

-The Little Egg Harbor,NJ  Police Department and nearby agencies are reporting multiple cases of sick and dead birds in the area and have issued a public warning. Officials advise residents not to touch any affected birds, as the highly contagious H5N1 virus has been identified and precautions are being taken to prevent possible transmission.

Oif Simchas Tuesday Rosh Chodesh 1 Adar

משנכנס אדר מרבין בשמחה

יעלה ויבוא 

Weinberg - Schechter  Lake Terrace 

Frankel - Gruber Fountain Ballroom

Schonbrun - Kohn Kesser Moshe Yehuda

Weinberg - Ehrlich  Ateres Reva 

Mandel - Baum Ateres Chaim Elazar 

Shapiro - Grossman Ateres Esther 

Eisgrau - Fihrer Ateres Blima

Weber  Cedar Palace

- Peekskill yeshiva dinner at Bell Works 

- Event promoting out of town kollelim tonight at Orchos Chaim hall featuring  a live panel discussion with youngeleit who currently live in out of town communities.

Tuesday February 17 Rosh chodesh Adar News Updates

חדש עלינו את החודש הזה לטובה ולברכה לששון ולשמחה לישועה ולנחמה לפרנסה ולכלכלה לחיים ולשלום למחילת חטא ולסליחת עון

Weather: 43° Mostly cloudy skies

Snow storm likely Sunday into Monday now likely Chance of snow 80%. Snow accumulating 3 to 5 inches.

- Israeli officials believe President Trump is prepping to strike Iran and expect the nuclear talks to collapse imminently. - Channel 12

 -More than 50 U.S. fighter jets, including F 35s, F 22s, and F 16s, were deployed to the Middle East within 24 hours

- There is growing speculation that former Donald J. Trump could have the opportunity to nominate a fourth Supreme Court justice if another vacancy opens. Attention has focused on Samuel Alito, one of the court’s most conservative members and its second-oldest justice, who has served on the bench for 20 years, amid talk of a possible retirement. (USA Today)

- Bnos Penina girls elementary school in Lakewood has notified parents that it will close its current location after Wednesday, February 18, and families should not send students starting Thursday, February 19.The administration said the school struggled financially because parents did not fully meet commitments to maintain tuition and provide additional support, writing, Had tuition obligations been maintained as agreed, we would not be in this position today. The landlord has notified the school they can no longer stay in the building. The letter to parents ends off it is our hope that the loyal parents will step forward in a meaningful and immediate way to make continuation possible 

-NYC Mayor Zohran Mamdani said NYC faces a 9.5% property tax hike unless Governor Kathy Hochul approves higher taxes on the wealthy and corporations.

- The Mir Yerushalayim Malchei Rabonon Adirei HTorah style event for Talmidei hayeshiva will take place tomorrow night at the Arena stadium featuring singers baruch Levine, Zanvill Weinberger, Bentzy Stein and Malchus Choir 

- Local Yeshiva bochurim get into the purim spirit with decorating the yeshivos and elementary boys do their purim shtick in the classroom 

- TAG: Practical Hadracha on m AI CHATBOTS

See below

- The New Jersey Department of Health has announced a new pilot program that will provide 1,250 Camden County families enrolled in the WIC program to receive a one-time $200 grant to help pay their utility bills.Eligible families will be randomly selected to help ensure fairness and to support an unbiased evaluation of the pilot’s impact.

Recipients can choose whether to apply their $200 grant to their gas, electric, or water utility account. No application or additional steps are required.(Onejerseyshorr)

- Khamenei Threatens U.S. Warships as Iran Nuclear Talks Stall in Geneva

Iran's Supreme Leader to Trump: 'They keep saying we sent an aircraft carrier towards Iran. Well, an aircraft carrier is certainly a dangerous tool, but more dangerous than the aircraft carrier is the weapon that can send this warship to the bottom of the sea'

- The Iranians claim: agreements have been reached with the US on several general issues, and it was agreed that the negotiations will continue

- Chavivim of Ocean county adds 8 new members to their team as they expand to service the area 

- Police in Bnei Brak used "Disproportionate Force” after unrest erupted when IDF soldiers entered the city without prior coordination, Dan District Commander Elad Klein  said.adding that the incident must be viewed in the context of the current draft law debate  calling the reaction in extremist strongholds a “predictable” response to the ongoing conscription struggle.

- Smash House burger will open in Toms River right after Pesach and plans on giving discounts to youngeleit with an affordable menu their single smach burger for just $7

- New Jersey commuters heading to Manhattan will face service reductions and schedule changes from Feb. 15 to March 15 as Amtrak shifts one track from the aging Portal Bridge to its new replacement over the Hackensack River. The work is expected to cause the biggest disruptions during rush hour for riders on NJ Transit and PATH.(NYT)

- Trump: Tax Refunds this year, because of “THE GREAT BIG BEAUTIFUL BILL,” are substantially greater than ever before. In some cases, estimates are that over 20% will be returned to the Taxpayer. So, when you get your Tax Refund, think about what a wonderful President you have — NO TAX ON TIPS, NO TAX ON SOCIAL SECURITY FOR OUR GREAT SENIORS, NO TAX ON OVERTIME, INTEREST DEDUCTIONS ON CAR LOANS, AND MUCH MORE. Don’t spend all of this money in one place! President DJT

- Reverend Jesse Jackson, a prominent civil rights activist,died today at age 84 had ties to Yassir Arafat, the PLO leader active during attacks on Jewish civilians. During his 1984 presidential campaign, Jackson acknowledged using the antisemitic slur “Hymietown” to describe New York City

- RFK Jr. Warns of Sharp U.S. Fertility Decline in American youth claiming Teenagers today have lower hormone levels, girls are developing earlier, and some men are facing new fertility challenges."

- The new management group that  has acquired Palisades Center mall in New Jersey says it plans to remain a long-term owner, with no intention of selling or breaking up the mall.

- The YU Seforim Sale is on now through March 1 at the Heights Lounge in the Mendel Gottesman Library, 2520 Amsterdam Ave #5, New York, NY 10033. Hours are Sunday 10am–10pm, Monday–Thursday 6:30pm–10:30pm, and Motzei Shabbos 8pm–11pm. 

- The Jackson Township Council will host a Community Infrastructure Roundtable tonight Tuesday to discuss ongoing and future infrastructure projects and gather input from residents. The meeting will be held at Town Hall, 95 West Veterans Highway, from 7 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.

TAG:  PRACTICAL HADRACHA ON AI CHATBOTS 

-FDrom the Roshei Yeshiva of Beth Medrash Gavoha and South Fallsburg, shlita

delivered by HaGaon HaRav Dovid Bresslauer, shlita, at the Hineini Nischazek AI Asifa

1. The use of chatbots (through computer, phone, or text) for personal use has no place in the life of a Torah’dik yid.

2. A chatbot is a dangerous tool even when it is used for parnassah because it can quickly become a very slippery slope.

Therefore, those who use it l’tzorech parnassah should understand the importance of having a discussion with a responsible baal eitza, who is familiar with the Torah hashkafa on digital technology, their personal matzav and with the nature and dangers of AI chatbots, in order to:

a. ascertain if their tzorech is an actual tzorech and

b. to adopt gedarim to ensure that a business tool should not, chas v’shalom, metastasize into something bigger.

*This hadracha is referring to AI Chatbots that have the ability:

to converse in a human-like way and converse on any topic.

These include ChatGPT, Claude, Gemini and Canva AI or Microsoft Co-pilot.

(The AI-generated responses of google searches does not fall under this category at this time.)

It does not refer to AI programs that:

can only generate creative or specific content, such as Adobe AI, Leonardo, Gmail AI/Help Me Write, and Runway Chat. can only converse on limited topics, such as Walmart’s AI customer service. Please be aware that this is a rapidly evolving field and a limited AI may turn into a full-fledged chatbot at any time.

Oif Simchas Monday Rosh Chodesh Adar

    משנכנס אדר מרבין בשמחה

יעלה ויבוא 

Chasunas 

Zeiger  - Gewirtz Kesser Moshe Yehuda 

Ferguson  - Rubin Fountain Ballroom 

Wilhelm - Mayer Ateres Chaim Elazar 

Brailofsky - Jaffa Lake Terrace 

Epstein - Fogel Ateres Esther 

Perlow- Rieder  Cedar Palace

Retention- Krausz Neemas Hachaim 

Rosengarten - Kellerman Ateres Reva

Minyanim Mincha Yom Kippur Koton Erev Rosh Chodesh Adar 5786 Lakewood

Minyanim for Mincha and Yom Kippur Koton ערב ראש חודש אדר תשפ"ו

 Rosh Chodesh Adar is on Tuesday and Wednesday 

 Please post additional minyanim or corrections in the comments section. For more zmanim see Lakewood Luach Here 

- Satmar Forest ave 12:45 1:30, 2:30, 3:30, 4:30

Monday February 16 News Updates Lakewood

Erev Rosh Chodesh Adar  Yom Kippur Koton

Weather: 37° Cloudy skies early, followed by partial clearing

Presidents day today federal, state, and local government offices, courts, and the U.S. Postal Service are closed, with no regular mail delivery. Banks, the stock market, and many schools are closed. However, most retailers, grocery stores, and restaurants remain open,

- The mashghiach of BMG Rav Reuven Hechster shlita will deliver his first official mussar Shmues  today during mussar seder at Beren  hall.

- Lakewood, nj  several thousand dollars were stolen in an early morning break-in at a local business. members of lakewood shomrim quickly mobilized and launched a coordinated response, using community cameras and on-the-ground canvassing to identify and track the suspect. shortly thereafter, shomrim members located the individual and notified the lakewood police department, who took the suspect into custody. Faanews

The gunman who opened fire at an ice skating rink in Pawtucket, Rhode Island, fatally shot his wife and 2 of his children before taking his own life. He also wounded a third child, who remains hospitalized, according to an ATF source cited by FOX News.

According to the report, American intelligence is not confident about who might take power if the regime is overthrown, but the assessment is that in the short term it would be members of the Revolutionary Guards. Secretary of State Rubio expressed this concern in a closed-door congressional hearing last month.

Happy President’s Day! Prices and Inflation are Way Down. The Stock Market, and your 401k’s, are Way Up. Our Military is Strong and Powerful, Our Law Enforcement is GREAT, and Our Border is 100% Secure. Murders (YEAR 1900!) and Crime are at RECORD LOWS, and Our Country is Bigger, Better, and Stronger than EVER BEFORE!!! Working Hard - ENJOY YOUR DAY! President DJT

- In a Truth Social post, Donald Trump said he opposes the Gateway rail project between New York and New Jersey, warning it could cost billions more than projected. He stressed that the federal government will not cover any cost overruns and dismissed reports about renaming Penn Station to “Trump Station” as fake news.

- Gov Mikie Sherrill has not ruled out potential cuts to Stay NJ, the state’s newly enacted senior property tax relief program, according to Acting State Treasurer Aaron Binder. The program which began distributing its first rebate checks this month is projected to cost New Jersey approximately $1.2 billion annually.

- Moadim L'Simcha Lakewood Pesach 2026 Order Deadline: Feb 22, 2026

- Kashrus Alert: KCL has issued a warning regarding the use of Instacart in frum establishments. Some foods, such as meats that require double wrapping with a kosher seal, may be picked up by drivers without the proper halachic seal. Customers are advised not to order items requiring double sealing through Instacart to ensure proper kosher observance.

- Shidduch lounge opening soon at the westwood business center at the Lakewood /Toms River border 

- Kedushas HaKosel at Stake: Tomorrow, the Bagatz High Court will hold a live-broadcast hearing with a panel of seven judges to decide whether the Reform movement should be granted a portion of the Western Wall. The ruling could have significant implications for the status and administration of the kosel hamaravi.

- Attorney says All those arrested during yesterday’s protests in Bnei Brak were released today.

- Times of Israel reports The crowd that gathered at the protest in Bnei Brak was not organized by the Yerushalayim Faction. The demonstrations were spontaneous, following alerts from the group’s “Color Black” system. Participants were reportedly from the mainstream Chared community, not a violent fringe, contradicting media and coalition claims that the unrest was orchestrated or driven by extremist elements.

- One of the female IDF servicewomen told the Walla news outlet that she had asked her commanders not to send them into the city of Bnei Brak , but was given no choice in what Charedi activist are calling a provocation angering the residents. The Israeli Yated Ne’eman reports that, according to eyewitnesses, soldiers went to multiple homes delivering IDF enlistment documents. Passersby said the soldiers even shouted at people in the streets, calling them “deserters” and urging them to go to the army.

- Giyus: Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s coalition is pushing to speed up legislation regulating military exemptions for yeshiva students, according to Channel 12, coalition officials asked the Knesset committee’s legal adviser to submit a revised draft by the weekend. Shas and Degel HaTorah have conditioned their final approval of the 2026 state budget on passage of the bill, though reports suggest the updated text may not be ready in time.

- Blame again Faa news reports Lakewood mayor Ray Coles blames residents for township recent snow clean up as it was significantly hindered by garbage cans and vehicles left in the street. While crews faced heavy snow and thick ice, cans placed on the roadway prevented plows from clearing curb to curb, and parked cars further slowed operations. The mayor urged residents to keep streets clear of vehicles and garbage cans during storms to allow for more efficient snow removal. In other times Blame was put on the state and county for their roads that run thru Lakewood 

- At the Lakewood sheva brachos hosted by the Roshei Chabura for the son in law and his daughter of R' Lazer Schiner he shared that ever since he took on the challenging zechus of raising funds for Adirei HaTorah, he has seen tremendous hatzlocha in his business.“Everything I’ve done for the yungeleit has only brought me and my family immense kavod, bracha, and hatzlocha,” he said. “I’m telling all of you: take your money and your time and support the yungeleit who are learning and holding up the world. There’s no bigger bracha… it’s the secret gold.”(frum twitter news)

- Protesters caused traffic disruptions this afternoon, blocking Route 38 toward Yerushalayim and entrances near Beit Shemesh and Modi'in Illit, bringing traffic to a halt in several areas.after the arrests yesterday in Bnei Brak 

- NJ Transit officials issued an apology to riders after canceling 27 trains Sunday on the first day of a month-long rail service reduction to put one track of the new Portal Bridge in service.Most trains were canceled Sunday morning, with a few canceled in the afternoon, according to NJ Transit alerts.

- While the frum media outlets harshly condemned the Bnei Brak protests, others journalists in israeli media pointed out they did not criticize the police actions targeting frum individuals such as forcibly removing a woman’s sheitel and largely ignored the climate of fear caused by arrests for draft avoidance. While quoting the gedolim who condemned the protesters, these outlets provided little context for the tense atmosphere in Eretz Yisrael. Police violence in the streets of Bnei Brak including the use of stun grenades, mounted units, and especially harsh force against passersby was not an act of law enforcement or crowd control, but rather a senseless, retaliatory outburst aimed at continuing the persecution of the Chared public in the Holy Land claimed some journalists 

- Jackson: Two people died early Sunday when a 2023 Toyota Highlander left Hyson Road, hit a tree, and caught fire in Jackson, New Jersey. Police were unable to reach the occupants, who were pronounced dead at the scene. The crash is under investigation.

Israel News Monday Feb 16

 - Top Netanyahu aide: Hamas will have 60 days to disarm or IDF will complete the mission

Hamas will have a 60-day period to disarm, or else Israel will go back to war in Gaza, says Cabinet Secretary Yossi Fuchs.

- It was allowed to reveal: The code that signaled the Hamas killers to start the massacre operation on 10/7 was sent to their cell phones as a set of emojis.

- The IDF and Shin Bet eliminated the head of the Islamic Jihad's logistics unit in the central camps in Gaza, who commanded militants who raided Israel on 10/7, as well as the militant Ahmad Bioukh, who raided the Re'im camp also on 10/7

-The Israel Defense Forces announced that nine Hamas terrorists were killed during operations in an underground network east of Rafah in Gaza. Three were confirmed killed following a clash last week, while six others were eliminated during subsequent tunnel-clearing missions. The IDF said operations will continue to remove immediate threats in the area.

-PM Netanyahu : We destroyed 150 kilometers of tunnels in the Gaza Strip—out of 500 km. We must complete the mission

- The Israeli military said it carried out a strike against a Hezbollah terrorist near the town of Hanin in southern Lebanon. No further details were immediately available.

Trump announces $5 billion pledge in Gaza aid from Board of Peace members

"The Board of Peace has unlimited potential. Last October, I released a Plan for the permanent end to the Conflict in Gaza, and our Vision was unanimously adopted by the United Nations Security Council. Shortly thereafter, we facilitated Humanitarian Aid at record speed, and secured the release of every living and deceased Hostage. Just last month, two dozen distinguished Founding Members joined me in Davos, Switzerland, to celebrate its official formation, and present a bold Vision for the Civilians in Gaza, and then, ultimately, far beyond Gaza — WORLD PEACE! On February 19th, 2026, I will again be joined by Board of Peace Members at the Donald J. Trump Institute of Peace in Washington, D.C., where we will announce that Member States have pledged more than $5 BILLION DOLLARS toward the Gaza Humanitarian and Reconstruction efforts, and have committed thousands of personnel to the International Stabilization Force and Local Police to maintain Security and Peace for Gazans. Very importantly, Hamas must uphold its commitment to Full and Immediate Demilitarization. The Board of Peace will prove to be the most consequential International Body in History, and it is my honor to serve as its Chairman. PRESIDENT DONALD J. TRUMP"

- Opposition Leader Yair Lapid calls on the United States to declare Qatar an enemy state, blaming it for anti-Israel activity in American academia.

- The cabinet authorized on Sunday the opening of a land registration process in the West Bank for the first time since 1967, with the ministers who initiated the measure saying it would enable the registration of broad swaths of land as state land available for Israeli development.

- Around 200 kibbutz members are expected to congregate today at Kibbutz Kfar Aza for the first time since the Hamas attack of October 7, 2023, to plant dozens of trees with donors.

Oif Simchas Sunday 29 Shevat

Chasunas:

Eidelitz - Naftali Ateres Reva

Rosenfeld - Lemberg Kesser Moshe Yehuda 

Heineman - Kimmel Ateres Esther 

Yeshiva Yesodei HaTorah dinner Fountain Ballroom 

- Weather tonight  31°Rain...mixing with snow overnight Chance of precip 90%. About one inch of snow expected.

Sunday February 15 News Updates Lakewood

Weather:  43° cloudy skies with a mixture of rain and snow developing during the afternoon.  Chance of rain 40%.

Tonight:  31° Rain and snow this evening turning to all snow overnight.Chance of precip 100%. 1 to 3 inches of snow expected.

- President Trump just moved the USS Gerald R. Ford RIGHT UP to Iran’s doorstep, the SECOND carrier strike group now in the region ahead of crunch-time negotiations! Trump’s message? Crystal clear:“If we don’t have a deal, WE’LL NEED IT.” (WH report)

- Trump told Netanyahu in their meeting in Florida about a month and a half ago that if no agreement is reached between Washington and Tehran, the U.S. would support Israeli strikes against Iran’s ballistic missile program.  

Since then, the U.S. military and intelligence community have been holding discussions on how the American military could assist the IDF. CBS

- Attorneys  representing detainees from today’s demonstration in Bnei Brak, report that approximately 27 people were arrested. About 20 have been released, while 7  including four minors remain in custody pending a court hearing on extending their detention.

The attorneys argue that many of the arrests lacked clear basis, claiming most detainees were passersby who did not participate in the protest. They say they will continue to defend their clients’ rights through the legal process.

- Busy Purim shopping day as stores roll out displays and sales ahead of Purim.

- Men's clothing sale today at AI Stone and Emporio *select items)

-Police in Bnei Brak are trying to put on a show of cruel revenge against residents who did nothing at all  including women and babies. (MWeisberg)

- Is it really necessary to remove wigs from ultra-Orthodox women as part of police activity?(Amit Segal)

- Israeli Police have arrested so far  23 people after Two female IDF soldiers were sent into Bnei Brak while conducting an official home visit to a frum soldier in the recruitment process. Initial reports circulated that they came to arrest yeshiva students and where from the military police. As the crowds gathered a demonstration broke out resulting in a overturned a police car and  a motorcycle on fire before police came to extracted the soldiers  who were not harmed. leaders across the political spectrum including Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and senior charedi figures from Shas and Agudah  condemned the attack calling it extremists  who don't represent the community.

- Jersey Central Power & Light customers will face a small increase in electricity supply costs starting June 1, 2026, following New Jersey’s annual Basic Generation Service (BGS) auction approval. For an average residential customer using 650 kWh per month, the supply portion of the bill will rise from $135.24 to $137.47—a $2.23 (1.6%) increase. This does not include delivery or other utility charges.

- Again iver the weekend more social media personalities and YouTubers have been circulating viral videos spreading blatant falsehoods and pure ignorance about the Lakewood community. Among the claims being pushed are accusations that marriages are not recognized by the state and that mothers are living as “single” in order to collect benefits.

These allegations are completely false.

Marriages performed in Lakewood are fully legal and recognized by the State of New Jersey. In fact, Lakewood Township consistently certifies the highest number of legal marriages per month in the state. Spreading misinformation for clicks and attention does nothing but inflame tensions and mislead the public. The facts simply do not support these narratives.

- Genazim judaica Auction today Sunday: Including Chofetz Chaim’s historic 1926 Tzavaah/ will detailing his life, mission, and Radin Yeshiva. starting at $240K, Rabbi Moshe Leib of Sassov letter starting bid $360K, Handwritten Ramchal letter $290K. 

Tucker Carlson, will visit Israel

- Shas Chairman Aryeh Deri:"I call on the Police Commissioner to immediately issue a restraining order against Naftali Bennett from the streets of Bnei Brak. This instigator and agitator came to the city to inflame tensions and exploit a painful situation for his own political gain. This despicable man, who spares no measure, is the last person who should be present in this arena".

- Rav Dov Landau and Rav Moshe Hillel Hirsch issued a strong directive to yeshiva students strictly forbidding participation in or presence at protests or gatherings that may lead to confrontation with police. They emphasized that talmidim must remain in yeshiva, fully committed to their learning and established sedarim. Attending such events, they warned, involves serious danger and constitutes a grave chilul Hashem.

l

Motzei Shabbos Mishpatim News Updates Lakewood

 Weather: 27° Partly to mostly cloudy.

Careful for black ice as surfaces refreeze melted snow.

Tomorrow night Rain and snow in the evening turning to all snow late.  Chance of precip 100%. Snow accumulating 1 to 3 inches.

NWS: Up to 2 inches of snow is now expected Sunday night into Monday for northern and central ares of New Jersey, while southern counties can expect mostly rain. 

- Melava Malka Gatshead Yeshiva with Rav Oppnheimer at Ateres Esther Chupa room.

- Shiras Devorah Expo tonight at the  school 

- Seminary acceptance letters coming tonight to girls going next year

- PTA tonight for several boys schools

- Costume closeouts open tonight until 11pm at former Walgreens 27S Hope Chapel Jackson 

Talmud Beyado Melava Malka at BMG

- Melting snow is expected to slightly ease New Jersey’s drought conditions, with about 1.5 to 2 inches of water currently stored in the snowpack. However, the state still needs steady rainfall in the coming months. Officials say a slow, gradual melt would be ideal, as rapid melting combined with heavy rain could cause flooding and ice jam issues.

-President Trump: “regime change would be the best thing for everyone” after 47 years of endless talk from Tehran.

 - Witkoff and Kushner have told President Trump that a nuclear deal with Iran is “difficult to impossible”

- Zohran Mamdani just booted out a drone manufacturer in NYC due to its ties with Israel.

- American proposal rejected by Iran:  

The Americans proposed that Iran completely cease its enrichment activities for 3 to 5 years, then proceed with enrichment at only 1.5%  

Iran would have to hand over 400 kilograms of uranium enriched to 60%  

The United States would not lift sanctions and would only refrain from attacking Iran

- President Trump and Prime Minister Netanyahu agreed in their meeting that, alongside negotiations with Iran and preparations for military action, the US will increase economic and political pressure on Iran, according to two senior US officials. "We agreed to go all out on a maximum pressure policy against Iran, for example, regarding the sale of Iranian oil to China," said the American official

- A powerful dust storm that traveled from Egypt into Eretz Yisroel  blanketed much of the country on Shabbos morning before gradually weakening later in the day, as forecasters warned of additional weather swings in the days ahead.

-NJ Gov Sherrill: The first $30 million for the Gateway Tunnel has been released, but Trump needs to pay up and send us the $200 million we are owed.

We’ve been fighting for this funding in court and we’re not going to until every worker is back on the job.

-BDE: Petirah of Rav Ben Zion Bobchik zt”l, longtime rov of the Gerer kehillah in Kiryat Gat and rov of the Beis HaChassidim Baal Shem Tov in Bnei Brak. Rav Bobchik, author of the sefer Batzar BaMidbar, passed away over Shabbos at the age of 72

Friday February 13 News Updates Lakewood

 Friday, February 13, 2026 / כ״ו שבט תשפ״ו ערב שבת פרשת משפטים

Candle lighting 5:12 pm

Shkiah/sunset 5:30 pm

Rosh chodesh Adar is Tuesday and Wednesday 

Weather: 37° Sunny.

A dusting to a half-inch of snow is possible overnight into Saturday from a quick moving storm. The storm track for a system Sunday night currently favors more rain for the Jersey Shore and southern counties with much warmer weather to follow for the rest of the month.National Weather Service

- Off  shabbos for some yeshivos

- Seminary answers for the first round of acceptance letters will iy”H be coming this Motzei Shabbos. For girls who applied 

- Lakewood: The New Jersey Appellate Division has approved the application of Yeshiva Chemdas HaTorah to add parking that could bring up to 500 additional cars to the area of James Street and Cross Street in Lakewood.

In a major upset to neighbors and commuters, the New Jersey Appellate Division on Friday issued a decision approving Yeshiva Chemdas Hatorah's project to construct 125 duplex homes plus basement apartments on Cross Street and James Street in Lakewood, FAA News reports  more

- The world's largest aircraft carrier, Gerald Ford, is on its way to the Middle East.

- Giyus: The draft enlistment law’s “sanctions for all” model would penalize anyone who fails to enlist, even if overall targets are met, with measures like cuts to daycare funding, travel restrictions, and loss of driver’s licenses. Ultra-Orthodox representatives say it’s too strict, while Knesset legal adviser Miri Frankel-Shor insists on keeping the sanctions to ensure the law can withstand High Court (Bagatz) review.

- Giyus: Avraham Ben Dayan, a yungerman detained for failing to report for enlistment, was released this morning after nearly a week in military custody. Arrested at his home in the moshav of Tifrach, he was held in a military prison since Motzaei Shabbos. During his detention, Ben Dayan complained of harsh treatment, including being shackled, denied access to study in the shul, and prevented from putting on tefillin on his first day.

- khal  Walden Woods of Toms River  traveled with their Rav, Rav Chaim Scheiner, to the kever of Tosfos Yom Tov following a campaign encouraging mispalelim not to talk during davening in the shul.

- A Yeshiva University student was violently assaulted in an attempted robbery tonight at the 181st Street subway station in NYC, an area with no cameras or police presence. University officials said the attack was not biased. The student is back on campus in good condition. YU Security is coordinating with law enforcement and reminded students, faculty, and staff to remain alert and exercise caution.

A New Jersey Assembly committee advanced two bills aimed at protecting the immigrant community and limiting local law enforcement’s cooperation with ICE after former governor Murphy vetoed similar legislation on his final day in office.

DHS faces a shutdown after Senate Democrats blocked a funding bill amid stalled immigration negotiations. A two-week stopgap expires at midnight as leaders recess without a deal.

Lakewood Zmanim עש"ק פרשת משפטים פר' שקלים מברכים חודש אדר תשפ"ו

                     משנכנס אדר מרבין בשמחה

Friday, February 13, 2026 / כ״ו שבט תשפ״ו

ערב שבת פרשת משפטים

מחצית השקל

-Candle lighting 5:12 pm

- shkiah/sunset 5:30 pm

  - ראש חודש אדר is Tuesday and Wednesday

Molad is Tuesday morning, 50 minutes and 12 chalakim after 3:00 am

Weather Friday night low 22

Shabbos day sunny hi of 47°

 מפטירין הפטרת פרשת שקלים מנהג הישיבה נוהגיים לומר יוצרות  אחר חזרת הש''ץ לפני קדיש תתקבל  בתפלת מוסף אומרים באמצע חזרת הש"ץ 

      (ספר נהג בחכמה)

ואם בפרשת שקלים עסקינן, כדאי לשים לב, כי המסכת היחידה שהיא רק 'ירושלמי' ומצאה את מקומה בש"ס 'בבלי' זו מסכת

 שקלים, כי כאשר 'ירושלמי' זקוק לשקלים הוא הולך לגלות 'בבל' לקוששם.  לכן מובן למה מודגש שם התנא 'רבי נתן הבבלי' שאם הוא 'נתן' הוא 'בבלי', כי ירושלמי הוא ר'  לקח ולא רבי נתן

(מעדני הפרשה

Oif Simchas Thurs 26 Shevat

Weather tonight 20° cloudy, Caution Black ice

Chasunas:

Lebowitz - Joselit Ateres Chaim Elazar 

Ehrman  - Yarmish Fountain Ballroom 

Katz - Borenstein Ne'emas Hachaim

- Annual dinner Yeshiva Eitz Chaim Hillside R"Y Rav Shmuel Abba Olshin shlita at Tiferes Bais Yaakov 613 Oak st 

- Hachtara: Khal Prospect Heights Lakewood Maamad hachtara for their nea rav appointing Rav Yechiel Michel Scheinerman Shlita as the rav to lead the kehilla Seuda at Shaagas Aryeh Simcha hall 975 Cross st Lakewood 8:00 pm 

- Many vorts tonight Ka'h post freezer opening

- Chumash Shiur by Harav Yeruchom Olshin shlita 11:30 pm at B"M Ateres Bracha live 646-726-9977 

Thursday February 12 News Updates Lakewood

 Weather: 37° generally cloudy. Higher wind gusts possible

This week is shabbos mevorchim chodesh Adar and Parshas Shekalim

Today 25 Shevat is the Yartzeit of ר' מרדכי פוגרומנסקי זצ"ל He didnt leave over any children name is Mordechai ben Eliyohu 

President Trump is set to rescind an Obama-era rule that required automakers to include automatic start-stop systems in vehicles. The feature, which shuts off engines at stoplights and had to be manually disabled each time, drew complaints from drivers who said it was frustrating and caused additional wear on their cars.

- WSJ: Jared Kushner is the senior Trump associate who appeared in a conversation intercepted by U.S. intelligence in May between foreign state actors about Iran. The conversation became a focal point of controversy in the U.S. following a complaint that National Intelligence Director Tulsi Gabbard delayed for months the disclosure of the intelligence material regarding that suspicious conversation

- Tehillim for Lea Necha bas Sara, a 16-month-old baby girl from Lakewood who is in critical condition. She initially suffered second-degree burns to her stomach over Shabbos and was treated and released from the hospital but later developed an infection that led to a high fever and her condition has worsened.(Blaaz)

-Giyus: The demand of the Degel leadership that has still not received a response from the legal counsel: a retroactive cancellation of all 80,000 draft orders that were sent to tens of thousands of Charedim.

WH Press Sec Karoline Leavitt Parents across America can now officially apply to open a Trump Account for their child. These Trump Accounts are special investment accounts aimed at providing American children with a jumpstart on building wealth for life. If you are a parent who maximizes contributions to your child’s Trump Account, its projected value could reach nearly $1.1 million dollars by the time they turn 28, based on average historical stock market returns. Safe to say – Trump Accounts will give a substantial head start to position your child for a very bright future. Visit http://TrumpAccounts.gov and fill out the IRS Form 4547.

- U.S President Trump says Israeli President Herzog "should be ashamed of himself" for not granting a pardon to Israeli PM Netanyahu.He adds, “The people of Israel should shame him, he’s disgraceful”.

President Herzog’s office responds to Trump and aid no decision has been made on the prime minister’s request, which is currently under legal review by the Justice Ministry. The president will decide only after that process is complete, stressing that Israel is governed by the rule of law and that no outside pressure will influence the decision.

- Giyus: The shift in language  from Roshei yeshiva no longer stating that even those not studying won’t be drafted has fueled speculation that groundwork is being laid for a stricter giyus  draft law with higher enlistment targets and immediate sanctions, potentially agreed to by the frum parties, according to reporter Ishay Cohen.

- At last night’s AI Asifah for women, speakers cautioned that consulting AI is like asking a non-Jewish posek and emphasized the relational concern that people are turning to a non-human entity for guidance.

- Final Mincha and Tikkun Shovavim today Thursday At BM Ohr Moshe Serdehely

26 Dfena Ct 1:00 PM

-The Rachmastrivka rebbe shlita of Lakewood, will speak tonight with words of chizuk for yungeleit, marking the conclusion of the days of Shovavim, at his beis medrash in Lakewood. off E County Line rd 

- Kashrus tips from cRc Chicago about Salmon: Here's a fresh tidbit about salmon. You can buy raw (unseasoned) salmon sold in supermarkets which were prepared in an industrial factory, where they cut many of the same fish one after another and there is no meaningful concern of non-kosher residue, even without a hechsher!

- Genazim judaica Auction this Sunday: Including Chofetz Chaim’s historic 1926 Tzavaah/ will detailing his life, mission, and Radin Yeshiva. starting at $240K, Rabbi Moshe Leib of Sassov letter starting bid $360K, Handwritten Ramchal letter $290K. 

Tucker Carlson, will visit Israel

- Rav Reuven Hechster, the mashgiach, delivered two vaadim yesterday: one for the bochurim earlier in the day, and another in the evening for the talmidei hayeshiva.

- Lakewood Township skipped annual salary range disclosure. This year, the committee meeting agenda did not include the usual Annual Minimum and Maximum Salary Ranges for township offices and positions, which shows salary increases for public employees and elected officials 

- The New Jersey Assembly Public Safety Committee will hear three ICE-related bills today, including one banning masks for ICE agents and two previously vetoed measures that would limit state cooperation and information-sharing with federal immigration authorities.

- Giyus: The son of a Litvish Rosh yeshiva was arrested in Ashdod for draft dodging but was quickly released according to reports 

-Giyus: Netanyahu reportedly sought to meet Rav Moshe Hillel Hirsch Shlit”a but was refused, as the rabbi withdraws support for the draft exemption law, threatening coalition stability.

Giyus: Senior officials in the Degel HaTorah faction clarified today that no instruction has been issued by leading gedolim to oppose the draft legislation currently under discussion. On the contrary, they said they have been directed to continue working vigorously toward an agreed-upon law that would regulate the status of yeshiva students and bring an end to their arrests.

- Monmouth Medical Center Southern Campus, in partnership with Lev Rochel Bikur Cholim of Lakewood, is hosting an emergency Blood & Platelet Drive on Thursday, February 12.from 11:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. at Kimball hospital ocated at 600 River Avenue in Lakewood.

- Benjamin Netanyahu has presented evidence to US officials of Iran carrying out mass executions of thousands of protesters.

-The Pentagon has directed a second U.S. aircraft carrier strike group to prepare for possible deployment to the Middle East, according to a WSJ report. The USS George H.W. Bush could join the USS Abraham Lincoln in the region, pending final approval from President Trump.

- Russia has blocked WhatsApp in the country, removing the app previously used by at least 100 million people from the online services database run by the national internet regulator.

- Jackson mayor ignored an attorney’s warning, It cost the town $2 million. Council President Mordechai Burnstein disclosed that Mayor Michael Reina was warned in advance by the township attorney that elevating Joseph Candido to a civilian public safety role could expose Jackson to legal risk. The advice, Burnstein said, was never shared with council members before they voted to confirm the appointment. “Reina should be ashamed of himself,” Burnstein said NJ.com reports 

- PM Netanyahu, before his departure back to Israel: "There is a close, genuine, and open connection between Trump and me. The president believes that the Iranians already understand who they are dealing with. I think that the conditions he sets, combined with their understanding that they were wrong the last time when they did not reach an agreement, may lead them to agree to terms that will allow for a good agreement to be reached."

- Trump praised AG Pam Bondi for the Epstein hearing, claiming he was fully exonerated of Russia-related charges and blaming Democrats for wrongdoing. He also attacked RINO Congressman Thomas Massie and criticized Democrats’ focus on issues like immigration and transgender policies, framing them as distractions from Republican successes.

- Rep. Elise Stefanik (R-N.Y.) has called on Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. to launch a federal investigation into allegations that New York City health employees used taxpayer-funded resources to hold a “politically motivated” antisemitic meeting during work hours 

- The Aguda Chairmans take: this week, I found myself far from Har Sinai.

Parnassah obligations took me to a football stadium on Sunday, where the biggest game of the year was being played. This Shabbos, with

Hashkafa Q&A

Hashkafa with Rav Gershon Ribner Shlita

Proper etiquette when extending an invitation to a guest lecturer Tranquility and peace of mind expected to come with marriage Sharp distinction in actual learning experience betw. Chassidim and Misnagdim Considering options upon exiting Kollel life The single method to elevate one who is lacking basic scruples

Oif Simchas Wed 25 Shevat

Chasunas:

Judowitz - Pollack Fountain Ballroom 

Jakubowitz - Samuel Kesser Moshe Yehuda 

Karp - Rubnitz Ne'emas Hachaim 

Littman - Shaulson Ateres Blima 

Laskin - David Ateres Esther 

Bodner - Berger Cedar Palace 

Oratz  - Hershoff Ateres Chaim Elazar 

Caution Black Ice on paved surfaces 

Weather tonight low of °27

-  Asifa about AI  artificial intelligence  for women and post high school girls at the Lakewood high school 8 45pm. Speaking Ra. Malkiel Kotler, Rav Elya Ber Wachtfogel, Rav Dovid Bresslaur shlita.

Wednesday February 11 News Updates Lakewood

Weather: 47° Sunshine and clouds mixed Higher wind gusts possible

Watching a potential winter storm. Rain and snow showers Sunday evening into Monday morning Chance of rain 60%. Snow accumulations less than one inch

- The House passed the Save America Act by a 218–213 vote. The bill requires voter ID in future elections, beginning as early as this coming November. All Republicans present voted for it; including one Democrat, Henry Cuellar, who also voted for it. It now heads to the Senate.

-The House voted 219–211 to pass a resolution aimed at reversing President Trump's tariffs on Canada.Six Republicans voted in favor one democrat against

- Congressman Jeff Van Drew: The Governor of New Jersey just launched a state portal to track ICE agents. These are federal officers removing violent criminals from our streets, and she is putting a target on their backs.

- New Jersey Gov. Mikie Sherrill signed an executive order prohibiting ICE and other federal agencies from using state-owned property to stage civil immigration enforcement operations. While agents may access public areas and make lawful arrests, they cannot base operations on state land or enter non-public state facilities without a judicial warrant. Sherrill also launched an online portal for residents to upload photos and videos of ICE activity to help the state monitor enforcement actions.

The State is also launching a new website to make sure people know their Constitutional rights when interacting with federal agents and information about pro-bono legal services.

- The Mashgiach of BMG Rav Reuven shlita will deliver a sichas mussar for yeshiva bochurim during mussar seder this evening 

- Giyus: Channel 12 reports that Rav Moshe Hillel Hirsch now says the current version of the draft (giyus) law is not what was promised to him by the IDF and the prime minister, and he is considering withdrawing his support.

- Giyus Rav Dov Landau shlita declares in a video statement : "We declare with a loud voice: whether the authorities agree to this or not, even a single avrech, even a single yeshiva student, will not go to the army, not in this manner nor in any other manner; the place of Torah scholars is solely within the halls of the yeshivas and kollels. Let all know, both those who understand this and those who do not, this is the fact, so it was and so it shall be."

- Trump: I have just finished meeting with Prime Minister Netanyahu, of Israel, and various of his Representatives. It was a very good meeting, the tremendous relationship between our two Countries continues. There was nothing definitive reached other than I insisted that negotiations with Iran continue to see whether or not a Deal can be consummated. If it can, I let the Prime Minister know that will be a preference. If it cannot, we will just have to see what the outcome will be. Last time Iran decided that they were better off not making a Deal, and they were hit with Midnight Hammer — That did not work well for them. Hopefully this time they will be more reasonable and responsible. Additionally, we discussed the tremendous progress being made in Gaza, and the Region in general. There is truly PEACE in the Middle East. Thank you for your attention to this matter!

PRESIDENT DONALD J. TRUMP

- JD Vance just said: “If the Iranian people want to overthrow the regime, that's up to the Iranian people. What we're focused on right now is the fact that Iran can't have a nuclear weapon.”

- Lakewood roshei yeshiva issue letter calling on woman and older girls to attend the asifa about AI tonight to be held at the Lakewood high school in the letter they write 

For years, yirei Shamayim have fought the challenges of internet and smartphones. Now, AI chatbots present an even greater nisayon, accessible in many ways and posing serious spiritual risks. Mothers and working women especially must understand the danger and learn practical steps to protect themselves and their children. All are urged to attend the Hineini Asifah on Wednesday of Parshas Mishpatim for chizuk and guidance, with tefillah for rachamei Shamayim and bracha for their families.

- Return Again: The Ballad Of A Husband  new comedy song by ben Miller listen Here 

- MasaUmatan rental list here

- Giyus: By 2050, almost one in four Israelis will be ultra-Orthodox, study indicates

Charedim constitute 23.5% of those eligible for military, which expected to rise to 40% by 2050, says Israel Democracy Institute; if the Charedim don’t integrate, GDP could fall by 10%

- U.S. military shoots down Mexican cartel drones that breached U.S. airspace near El Paso, using electronic warfare from Fort Bliss

FAA lifts airspace closure over El Paso; “no threat to commercial aviation”.the decision to close the airspace was triggered by Mexican cartel drones breaching US airspace.

- The average New Jersey property tax bill hit another high last year, topping $10,000 for the second year in a row, new data from the state Department of Community Affairs shows. The average homeowner paid $10,570 in property taxes last year, an increase of $475 compared to the year before.

- The new mashgiach in BMG has began scheduling appointments for youngeleit  seeking guidance and chizuk

- Faanews Jackson officials claimed a court victory over a zoning ordinance, but the judge only dismissed the first lawsuit as moot after the township repealed the law. The court did not rule on the merits, and a new lawsuit challenging the replacement ordinance is still ongoing.https://www.faanews.com/2026/02/mootness-masquerading-as-merit-kuhn-and.html 

- Trump: GREAT JOBS NUMBERS, FAR GREATER THAN EXPECTED! The United States of America should be paying MUCH LESS on its Borrowings (BONDS!). We are again the strongest Country in the World, and should therefore be paying the LOWEST INTEREST RATE, by far. This would be an INTEREST COST SAVINGS OF AT LEAST ONE TRILLION DOLLARS PER YEAR - BALANCED BUDGET, PLUS. WOW! The Golden Age of America is upon us!!! President DJT

- BDE: Petira of Rav Aviezer Asher Zelig Shapira, zt”l, longtime mashgiach of Yeshiva Ketana Kol Torah in Yerushalayim, was niftar at age 81. Appointed in 1978 (5738) in Bayit Vegan, he guided and shaped thousands of talmidim. A descendant of the Saraf of Moglenice and the Ruzhin dynasty, he learned at Kol Torah and Chevron Yeshiva. He was known for his nightly visits to the Kosel and helped establish the widely observed minhag to recite recitation “Nishmas Kol Chai.” at Chatzos. The levaya was held in Geula, with kevura at Har Hazeisim.

- Toms River: A burst pipe caused major flooding at Toms River Town Hall on Monday, impacting all three floors and forcing the building to close. Mayor Dan Rodrick said the town hall will remain closed for at least two days while repairs are made, and Wednesday’s township council meeting has been canceled.

- The Lakewood Industrial Commission meeting was held virtually today, but the video recording does not appear to be working on the township website.

- New Jersey drivers could pay just over $3 per gallon this spring, with 2026 gas prices projected to range between $2.81 and $3.07, even though prices have recently fallen to their lowest levels in years.

-PSA Kashrus Update

More on Salmon and fish from CRC Chicago

o, we've gotten great feedback on our salmon posts. Here's some background information: In the wild, salmon develop their red color from carotenoids, such as astaxanthin, found in foods like shrimp, lobster, and krill. Today, most salmon are farm-raised in large ponds where their diet lacks these natural sources, so their flesh would be pale without additives. Because consumers expect the familiar natural red color, farmers add carotenoids to the feed to restore the characteristic color. What about other fish? When other fish (besides salmon) eat the same synthetic carotenoids, even large quantities, they do not produce the same effect. Therefore, there is no practical concern that a fish which appears to be salmon is perhaps another species.Artificial dye to resemble salmon? Doesn’t work. There would need to be multiple needle injections, leaving clear puncture marks. And it would need to be soaked in saltwater brine. Also, there is currently no reliable method to prevent such dyes from leaking during cooking.So, throughout the ages until today, salmon remains the only fish clearly identifiable without fins and scales! Here’s a comprehensive Hebrew article published in Ohr Yisroel: Here 

Israel News Wed February 11

- Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu will tell US President Donald Trump during their meeting on Wednesday that the second phase of the Gaza ceasefire “is not moving,” an Israeli source with knowledge of the details told The Times of Israel

- NYT: Witkoff and Kushner plan to allow Hamas to keep some of its light weapons, at least at the beginning of the disarmament plan implementation. The Whitehouse denies the report claiming Trump is committed to the 20 point plan.

-The IDF eliminated a Hamas terrorist involved in the killing of 7 IDF soldiers

- US Secretary of State Rubio will meet at 9 AM with Prime Minister Netanyahu at Blair House ahead of the meeting with President Trum

- The IDF said it killed Basel Himouni, a Hamas operative who orchestrated the 2004 Beersheba double suicide bombing that killed 16 people, in a February 4 airstrike in Gaza. Himouni had been jailed in 2004 but was released in the 2011 Gilad Shalit prisoner exchange deal.

- The United States will host the first meeting of the Gaza-overseeing Board of Peace next week, aiming to secure funding for Gaza’s reconstruction. However, fundraising may be difficult because Hamas controls the eastern half of Gaza, Israel controls the western half, and Israeli airstrikes continue across the territory.

-PM Netanyahu reportedly was warned about Hamas’s ‘Jericho’s Wall’ plan for large-scale attack years before Oct. 7, despite his repeated denials; source says one report was shared with PM directly.

Bereaved families express outrage after the Prime Minister’s Office requested to remove the word “massacre” from the title of a bill to commemorate the Hamas onslaught of October 7, 2023, and instead call it the”Memory and Commemoration of the events of Simhat Torah” bill. A Knesset committee has approved the change, though the matter isn’t final.

Oif Simchas Tuesday 24 Shevat

Chasunas:

Tillim -  Skaist  Fountain Ballroom 

Dabbah - Rashti Ateres Reva

Wadiche - Falack kesser Moshe Yehuda

Becher - Radner Ne'emas Hachaim 

Weather tonight 31° Overcast. Slight chance of a rain shower. 

Tuesday February 10 News Updates Lakewood

 weather 38° Mostly cloudy skies.

Freezing rain and drizzle could lead to icing in parts of northern New Jersey tonight Forecasters are also tracking the chance for some snow on Sunday night into Monday.

- Karoline Leavitt - "Parents across the country can now officially apply to open a Trump Account for their child. In order to apply, parents can visit http://TrumpAccounts.gov and fill out the IRS Form 4547."

- Giyus: The change in the position of Degel HaTorah and Shas is very dramatic and unprecedented. A law with higher targets and sanctions that will take effect immediately - it cannot be called a “Draft Exemption Law.” We just need to wait and see whether the rabbis will indeed approve the law. On the other hand MK Goldknopf:

from Agudah party said In light of various press publications, it will be clarified that there has been no change whatsoever in our position.We oppose the draft law in its current format, which includes sanctions on Torah scholars, and this is by directive of the moetzes As we clarified from the outset, we cannot agree under any circumstances to the transformation of Torah scholars into criminals in a Jewish state. Reporter Ishay Cohen 

-Trump: Two views of the Great Ballroom being built on the site of our wonderful White House It is on budget, and ahead of schedule! When completed, it will be the finest Ballroom ever built anywhere in the World, one that has been sought by Presidents for over 150 years — and now they are getting THE BEST! Because of its unprecedented structural, safety, and security features, it will also be used for future Presidential Inaugurations. Thank you for your attention to this matter! PRESIDENT DONALD J. TRUMP

- President Trump said that if no deal is reached with Iran, the U.S. will take very tough action.

He said he is weighing the deployment of an additional aircraft carrier to the region along with additional forces.

- Netanyahu is Heading to Washington on Today to meet with US President Donald Trump, he plans to convey Israel’s position on US nuclear talks with Tehran during the meeting.

- In 2025, about one-third of American Jews faced antisemitism, and 55% avoided certain behaviors out of fear, indicating a troubling “new normal” since the 2023 Hamas attacks.

-  At last night’s zoning board meeting, several neighbors spoke in opposition to a proposed duplex in the Ridge area citing the already congested streets, while others spoke in favor and urged the neighbors to fargin. With no majority of five votes, the board postponed a decision until the next meeting

- Giyus bill DOA As of Tuesday, February 10, the draft law appears dead on arrival.Amit Segal reports The gaps between the charedi parties, the moetzes, and the government’s legal advisers are impossible to bridge. Charedi representatives are willing to accept sanctions in principle, but only going forward and not on those already subject to the draft. Legal advisers insist sanctions must apply to everyone, without exception. With no middle ground, the bill is effectively stalled, leaving Prime Minister Netanyahu as the main political beneficiary.

- A judge blocked Adventure Crossing developer  plan for 1,200 homes in Jackson He has filed a new lawsuit, claiming the township passed a law to counter his original challenge.

-Ahead of the TAG AI Asifah for women tomorrow in Lakewood , organizers received both praise and concern, with some worried it will feel too strict or unrealistic. They explain that this concern reflects deep commitment to Yiddishkeit and that asifos are a long-standing way Klal Yisrael seeks guidance from gedolim in confusing times. The message emphasizes that not all AI is the same some is fine, some needs caution, and some is dangerous. The goal isn’t to ban technology, but to gain clarity about responsible use, especially as AI affects daily life and jobs. The call is to come with openness and begin an honest conversation about where AI fits in our lives today.

- New Jersey lawmakers reintroduced a bill to add a 40-cent monthly tax on phone lines to fund the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, supporting remote counseling, emergency response, and other services.

- Toyota is recalling about 141,000 Prius hybrids from model years 2023–2026 due to a defect that could cause rear doors to unlock unexpectedly during a short circuit, increasing the risk of passenger injury.

- IDF readying new Gaza offensive to disarm Hamas by force Plans being drawn up for large-scale op, with terror group seen as unlikely to give up weapons otherwise; for now, IDF holding tight on Yellow Line, amid ‘endless’ tunnel demolition

- Jackson Township Fire District #3 is preparing for a February 21 referendum on its proposed 2026 budget, which supports Fire Station #55 and covers several local neighborhoods. Officials cite a sharp rise in emergency calls and say the plan maintains 24/7 coverage, staffing, and equipment. If approved, the average homeowner would pay about $3.50 more per month. Voting takes place Feb. 21, by mail or in person at Fire Station #55, with evening hours for Shabbos observers.

- CRC Kosher: We get asked all the time about the status of salmon. Salmon is the only fish which can be eaten without checking for fins and scales due to the unique pink color. Does nation of origin matter? Here's the details on salmon: Canned, smoked, or otherwise processed - needs a reliable hechsher. Frozen: fine without certification if the only added ingredients are color and salt, including sodium tripolyphosphate. Fresh/raw: If you buy it in a retail store which cuts the fish itself then you should ask the store employees to clean the knife and work on a clean piece of butcher-paper. More details here: 

PSA: Jackson police going around Brookwood giving tickets to people parked the wrong way on the street. When many streets are still 1 lane only and very hard to park since they have not fully plowed them(submitted)

- Giyus: The wife of Reb Avraham Ben Dayan, detained for draft issues, spoke with Rosh Yeshiva Rav Avraham Salim, who offered chizuk, guidance, and ongoing support. She shared her husband’s fear and hardship in custody, and Rav Salim promised to continue praying and assisting for his release.

- FBI Director Kash Patel releases footage showing the suspect connected to the Nancy Guthrie case, urging the public to help identify the individual. 

Rav Dov Lando, in a letter of  chizuk to a newly married youngerman d being held in a military prison, for Draft evasion.

 "You have merited to be a representative of Talmidei chachomim  through whom they seek to harm them by their schemes.”

Oif Simchas Monday 23 Shevat

Chasunas:

Yagen -  Benoliel Cedar Palace 

Goldstein  - Jacobs Bais Faiga

Friedman - Stefansky Ateres Reva 

Miller - Sussman Ateres Blima

Braun - Weisbrod Ateres Chaim Elazar 

Brodt - Kessner Lake Terrace 

Braun - Holcer Ateres Esther 

Zafir - Mandel Kesser Moshe Yehuda 

Karmel - Ilowitz Fountain Ballroom 

Weather tonight low of  14°

Be careful of black Ice after surfaces refreez

Monday February 9 News Updates Lakewood

 weather: 31° Sunshine and clouds mixed warmer temperatures in forecast this week tomorrow 39 and later this week mid 40's 

Please note the shkiah is now jumping up by 2 minutes per day. the switch to daily savings time is March 8.

This shabbos is Parshas Shekalim.

- Trump claims Canada has taken advantage of the U.S. for decades and is now doing so again by building a major Ontario–Michigan bridge using no American materials, which he says was enabled by an Obama-era waiver of the Buy American Act. He criticizes Canada for restricting U.S. alcohol sales, imposing high dairy tariffs, and pursuing closer ties with China. Trump says he will block the bridge from opening unless the U.S. is fully compensated, treated fairly, and possibly granted partial ownership of the bridge, and he calls for immediate negotiations.

- At least 17 people have died in New Jersey from the unrelenting cold weather over the last several weeks, according to the state Department of Health.

- A Charedi family of five fled Iran and arrived in Israel after a dangerous escape, settling in a Charedi community in central Israel. Living on limited government assistance, they are receiving additional support from the local Charedi community to help rebuild their lives.

- Lakewood zoning board meeting tonight watch kivestream Here see agenda Here  items on the  agenda . SCHI seeking approval for a 44,000-square-foot addition to an existing school with a height variance of 49 feet ; another requesting variances to subdivide a lot for a duplex; and a third seeking variances for setbacks and lot coverage for a single-family home.

- Giyus: Anger has erupted in the Charedi community after a 23-year-old yungerman was taken into military police custody on Motzaei Shabbos, with his family alleging mistreatment, including being denied tefillin and misinformation about his location. Senior Knesset member Moshe Gafni said, “this will not pass quietly.” The IDF has acknowledged that he was prevented from putting on tefillin. The army apologized, labeling the incident a grave error and emphasizing that it was “a highly unusual case.”

- Giyus: Protests erupted today at the Coca-Cola intersection in Bnei Brak following the arrest of a newly married yungerman, with police reportedly clashing with demonstrators.

- Sales Jet foil 9x13 pans for $23 at GG limit 1, at Bingo Tasters choice 14 oz $14

- 26,200,000 MILLION people are expected to skip out on Work today following the Super Bowl last night. 3,000,000 are expected to "Call in Sick"

- Rav Dov Landau: *"Anyone who is a partner to the terrible crime of restricting the footsteps of Torah scholars should know: there is a Borei Olam, there is justice, and there is a Judge!"

- Vice President J.D. Vance: There are no red lines in talks with Iran, and if there are, Trump will be the one to set them; he wants a significant deal. Reaching an agreement with Iran will benefit everyone.

- Elon Musk said SpaceX has shifted its primary focus to building a “self-growing city” on the Moon, arguing it could be achieved within a decade, faster than a Mars civilization.

- Iran claims it could preemptively launch more than 2,000 ballistic missiles at once if attacked, former senior IRGC commander Hussein Kanani Moghadam told RT, adding: “And the head of this missile is like the three or four atomic bomb… destroy Tel Aviv and Chaifa.”

- The 29-Day New York City Nurse Strike Comes to an End for Over 10,000 Nurses After Agreement Is Reached

As temperatures rise, people were seen walking on the frozen Lakewood lake, previously authorities  warned that warming conditions can cause ice to weaken and give way, creating serious danger.

- eCap summit underway in Florida today and tomorrow at Trump Doral hotel

- The New Jersey Coalition for Vaccination Choice is challenging new state rules that expand vaccine reporting requirements and let private schools impose stricter immunization standards. The group argues the changes violate parental rights, privacy, and due process, and has filed an appeal against the Department of Health’s updates.

At the Maamad Hachtara for the BMG Mashgiach Rav Reuvein Hechster shlita