Opt out its not manageable, no Opt in it's cheap!
What is most insulting is not even the increase itself it's the lack of explanation. People feel they were played.
The initial number families were already paying was $385. It was raised to $945. That price has now been reduced by $290, bringing the new total to $675 per child. But the statement never acknowledged that this $290 is on top of the $385 base parents were already paying it was presented as if the added cost was only $290, when in reality the total cost per child is now closer to $700. That omission is what many people find especially misleading.
The financials also make no sense. If the shortfall was $2.7 million, why was the increase set at a level well above that to begin with and then what suddenly changed that allowed additional funding to be found? Regardless, this is still a steep increase for parents to absorb, and it raises real questions about transparency. There is no guarantee this new baseline won't rise again especially considering that the cost was just $150 not long ago, and is now effectively $700.
People deserve answers. Was the original increase deliberately set high to create panic and make the final number seem more manageable? When was this actually known? Why were people told that those in charge had only recently learned about it? Was this planned in advance? How long before was this known?
This is not a game. These decisions affect families' emotions and finances. Those responsible owe the public more than an apology they owe a full public explanation of what happened and what is still happening.
There are also major unanswered questions about the justification for using municipal tax dollars to fully fund courtesy busing for public school students while not doing the same for non-public-school students. The public has repeatedly asked for a legal explanation and still has not received one.
And taxpayers are being told that budget cuts are responsible, with blame placed on Trump, FEMA, and the state. But Lakewood's municipal tax levy increased for 5 years in a row from about $72.2 million in 2021 to $97.2 million in 2025 an increase of roughly 35%. The Township is now proposing another $14 million increase for 2026, bringing the municipal levy to approximately $111.2 million.
So the question remains: Where is all the tax money going and why is the public still not getting straight answers?
Weather: 82° Sunshine to start, then a few afternoon
- BDE: Petira of Sanzer Rebbe of Boro Park, Harav Hatzaddik Reb Boruch Halberstam, zt”l. He was 70 years old. The Rebbe, a descendant of the Divrei Chaim of Sanz, zt”l, was widely known for his extraordinary dedication to chesed and hachnosas orchim and for his open door to Yidden from across the community.
- LPD Traffic Alert: E 4th Street will be closed from Cottage Place to Negba Street for planned NJAW construction. Plan alternate route if possible.
- Amazon plans to begin using drones to carry out deliveries around South Jersey starting in mid-October, according to a notice the tech giant sent to Mantua Township officals. According to the notice, the proposed operating area for its "Prime Air" service will cover a radius of around 15 miles from its facility at 240 Mantua Grove Road in West Deptford Township. NJ
- Trump: The Radical Left Democrats are going CRAZY with Fake Polls. They’re putting them out at levels never seen before. They’re called, “Demoralization Operations,” where they try to demoralize Republicans so that they don’t go out and vote — But the actual Polls are tremendous, and the Spirit in our Country has never been higher. We’re winning against EVERYONE, including Iran, whose Country is in Economic and Military Death Spiral. Thank you for your attention to this matter! President DONALD J. TRUMP
- LSTA update: Parents will have to "only" pay an additionl $290 instead. Total of $675 per child for courtesy busing. (While Lakewood township fully sponsors public school courtesy busing.)
This is what schools are asked to send out
Important Update Regarding Non-Mandated Bussing
Dear Parents,
We are pleased to share an important update regarding non-mandated bussing for the upcoming school year.
Over the past several days, we have been working closely with representatives of the LSTA, together with our local and state government officials and dedicated askanim, in an effort to ensure that transportation for the children of our Kehila can begin on time and without interruption.
Baruch Hashem, through these discussions, the additional fee for non-mandated bussing has been reduced to $290 per student.
In light of this development, we are now recommending that parents opt in for transportation. Please note that the $290 fee is due at this time in order to secure transportation.
We fully recognize that this is still an additional expense for families. This arrangement is intended to allow bussing to begin on time while we continue our efforts to explore possible solutions.
We will continue to keep parents informed of any developments as they arise. Thank you for your patience, understanding, and cooperation throughout this process.With best wishes for a successful school year,{Your Mosed}
- Rav Shlomo Eisenberger shlita R"Y Telz will be giving a Elul shmooze at B"M Kol Aryeh today at 1:15pm
- Ontario Premier Doug Ford threatens to cut off electricity and critical minerals to the US if the trade war with Canada worsens.
- LSTA: With the Monday night deadline looming, there have still been no updates from LSTA, the schools, or elected officials, leaving parents wondering what to do about bus transportation for the upcoming school year. There is still hope that some source of funding will come through, but for now, families are being left with a wait-and-see approach as the deadline rapidly approaches.
- LSTA from the state report: Recent LegislationIn 2024, new legislation expanded the LSTA model and allowed additional transportation consortia to form. Unlike the 2016 pilot, the new law allows districts from multiple counties to participate, removes district-size requirements, requires savings from mandated funds to be returned to districts, and permits up to a 6% administrative fee for busing.
Lakewood Student Transportation Authority functions similar to a coordinated transportation services authority (CTSA). However, a CTSA is a governmental entity and the LSTA is a non-profit limited-liability company.
More from the report: One of the LSTA’s advantages over Lakewood for operating nonpublic routes is its flexibility in charging for courtesy busing, which Lakewood cannot do because of the district’s free and reduced lunch percentages. A study performed by Lakewood, NJ CPA firm HFA Certified Public Accountants and Advisors in 2020 found that the LSTA saves the district over $11 million versus the district bidding and managing all routes.
- Man with the truck will be in Lakewood today at BM Ohr Tuvia East End Ave hall 4:30 pm
- Tuition in Lakewood survey from TVOL interview with Lakewood families: Tuition remains a significant financial burden for many families. Sixteen percent spend at least half their income on tuition, while 29% spend more than 25%. Despite this, 61% believe tuition is reasonable, and paying tuition ranks 4.6 out of 5 in importance. Still, 29% owe tuition from the previous school year, showing that families can consider tuition important and reasonable while still struggling to pay it.
- Giyus: “I have a feeling that the state will give up on us. They’ll understand that this isn’t possible and back off from us.” Rav Moshe Hillel Hirsch, leader of Degel HaTorah, speaking to several activists about the issue of drafting charesim into the military.
- Iran tried to assassinate one of Netanyahu's sons, prime minister tells Israeli TV outlet Channel 14
- Trump: IRAN IS COMPLETELY COLLAPSING!!! President DJT
- Trump posted a Newsmax headline quoting a statement by Ghalibaf, Speaker of the Iranian Parliament: “We are starving, we cannot survive.."
- The United States is preparing a sweeping new round of economic sanctions against Iran as the Trump administration intensifies pressure on Tehran, with Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent calls the effort an “economic D-Day.” The move comes as Iran’s currency hits a historic low and Iranian officials threaten to halt oil exports through the Strait of Hormuz, while U.S. officials say commercial traffic through the region has increased despite the tensions.
- At the Cairo negotiations, the United States and the Peace Council were presented with intelligence indicating that there are elements within Hamas planning to deceive and not fulfill the commitment to full disarmament
- The U.S. naval blockade remains in place as the USS Abraham Lincoln heads home after a record-setting deployment and the USS George Washington moves in to replace it.
- October Council Warns of Renewed Security Failures: A comprehensive report based on testimony from observers, soldiers and security personnel warns that Hamas is testing the IDF, operational approvals are sometimes delayed and people are afraid to report threats. Families bereaved in the 7 October massacre demanded a state commission of inquiry, warning that without investigation and corrective action, another disaster could occur.
- Israeli Strikes Reported in Southern Lebanon: Lebanese media reported Israeli airstrikes in the southern towns of Houla and Al-Mansouri.
- IDF Strikes Hamas Operatives in Deir al-Balah: The IDF said it struck 2 Hamas operatives overnight in central Gaza who infiltrated Israel during the 7 October massacre, killing Nukhba operative Abd al-Nasser Jabr Abu Assad. According to the military, they had recently planned attacks, tried to rebuild Hamas capabilities and systematically violated the ceasefire
- After 78 years, the Irgon boat, the Altalena, has been found. Tonight, August 24, 2026, at 00:30, during a complex maritime search operation, the ship was located intact at a depth of 503 meters, west of the Israeli coast.
In June 1948, shortly after the establishment of the state, the Irgun ship "Altalena" arrived at the shores of Israel carrying weapons and fighters. Ben-Gurion demanded that all the weapons be handed over to the IDF, but the Irgun demanded that a portion of them be transferred to their members. The dispute escalated into a violent confrontation, and the IDF fired at the ship off the coast of Tel Aviv. 16 Irgun members and three IDF soldiers were killed.
The incident is considered one of the traumatic events in the history of the state and a symbol of the struggle for the principle of "one army for one state
- Joint Statement from the Israeli Prime Minister and the Minister of Defense: Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Minister of Defense Israel Katz held a situation assessment tonight (Sunday) regarding the threat of launching drones, balloons, and kites from the Gaza Strip towards Israel. Israel warns Hamas that if the launches towards Israel do not stop immediately, the IDF will act to intensify operations against those responsible for the launches and will evacuate populations from areas from which kites, drones, and balloons are launched. The Prime Minister clarified that we will not return to the reality of before October 7. Israel will not allow the terrorist organization Hamas or any other entity in the Gaza Strip to return to threatening our settlements and undermining the sense of security of our citizens.
- Netanyahu on drones: This is an F-35 aircraft. Do you have a drone at home? It can be just as dangerous. If they are in large numbers, equipped with weapons, very accurate, and difficult to detect, they will be problematic. We have been trying to find a solution to this problem for years. We are the most advanced country in the world in this field, but this is a global problem. We have seen this in Ukraine Lebanon and Iran, and now they are trying to revive this technology and bring it into Gaza.
My directive to the security organizations and the Israel Defense Forces is to do everything possible to counter this dangerous tool: targeting the drones themselves, targeting their operators, and targeting the location from which they are launched.
- Trump on Iran: “They'd love to make a deal, but they're not ready to make the right deal”
- Terrorist stabs a frum young father in the Jordan valley. Elchanan Chanania was moderately wounded in a stabbing attack near the village of al-Auja in the Jordan Valley on Sunday morning, after stopping on the way to a family vacation in Tevaria for his wedding anniversary. Chanania’s pregnant wife, two daughters and father-in-law were waiting in the car when the terrorist attacked him from behind and stabbed him in the upper body. His oldest daughter witnessed the attack. He was taken conscious to Shaare Zedek Medical Center with a shoulder fracture and internal bleeding, while Israeli security forces continued searching al-Auja, Yericho and the surrounding area for the attacker.
- Defense Minister Israel Katz says he has instructed the IDF to “act forcefully” against the launching of kites from the Gaza Strip in recent days. Over the weekend, at least four kites flown from Gaza landed in Kibbutz Nahal Oz. The army said nothing suspicious was found on the kites and there was no danger to the public, but many have associated the objects with Gazan kites and balloons carrying incendiary devices that plagued southern Israel in previous years.
- Saudi Al-Hadath channel reports: The Pakistani army chief will deliver US messages to Iran during his visit and will attempt to break the current deadlock and resume the talks.
- NYP: Iran's grip on the Strait of Hormuz is weakening: The New York Post reports a 400% increase in traffic volume in the strait. According to the newspaper, traffic on the strategic maritime route surged by nearly 400% in the last two weeks, amid increased use of vessels in the US-supported corridor to cross the strait.
- According to sources within the Israeli security establishment, Hamas has been exerting significant pressure on the mediating countries in recent days to blame Israel for violating the ceasefire agreement. This move has two main motivations: first, to halt any future process of the organization disarming; and second, to gain legitimacy to escalate operations against IDF forces operating in Gaza. (Channel 12)
- The reason for the IDF attack in Syria this week: Turkey was about to deploy air defense systems at the airport, which would have restricted Israeli operational freedom
- US Secretary of Energy Chris Right: Iran is losing the effectiveness of its leverage in the Strait of Hormuz: The US Navy helped transport more than 15 million barrels of oil through the Strait of Hormuz.
As a reminder, before the war approximately 23 million barrels of oil (including Iranian oil) passed through the Strait of Hormuz each day
- More confusion from local mosdos to parents regarding LSTA
Over Shabbos, the latest LSTA increase was a major topic of conversation among parents, who had first received the news on Thursday. While the latest school email/Text before Shabbos instructed parents to opt out, confusing messages sent Motzei Shabbos told parents not to opt in or out, warning that doing so would delete and remove their information from the system.
Meanwhile, the original LSTA email stated that if no action was taken by Monday at 11 p.m., parents would be automatically opted out.
"If no action is taken by 11:00 pm Monday, your child will be opted out, and the routes will be adjusted and consolidated accordingly."
This was sent out by some schools on Motzei shabbos "Important clarification regarding the non mandated bussing. Our recommendation is to NOT opt in but also to NOT opt out. (Actively opting out will remove your data from the system and cause a big problem). “Shev V’al
- At Yeshivas Brisk, the Rosh Yeshiva Rav Avrohom Yehoshua Soloveitchik, spent Shabbos in his new apartment adjacent to the yeshiva and participated in all the tefillos. During Krias HaTorah, he eceived the aliyah of Levi and then recited Hagomel, breaking down in tears as he thanked Hashem following his severe illness and medical ordeal, which had left him critically ill and bedridden. (Bhol)
- Lakewood officials have turned the town square into a “temporary” parking lot and while the move pleases some local merchants, others are less than happy to see the historic town square gone. Over the years, charities have held food and clothing giveaways at the square for years and have held many protest rallies there as well. APP.
- Part of Morris County experienced a very small earthquake on Saturday afternoon, according to the U.S. Geological Survey. The 1.1 magnitude quake was recorded more than three miles southwest of Chester and at a depth of seven miles, the agency posted to its website.
- Tomorrow Lakewood-area residents can get help applying for New Jersey’s ANCHOR prperty-tax relief program this Sunday, Aug. 23, from 1–5 p.m. at 1001 Route 70 in Toms River, near the Lakewood border. Representatives from the state Treasury will provide application assistance and answer eligibility questions in English and Yiddish.
- 40 Lakewood area girls still not placed in High schools with a week left for the new year
- RFK Jr. says Tylenol isn’t just linked to autismbut also ADHD and liver toxicity in kids.So why is Tylenol still on store shelves while Ivermectin isn’t? “Because Big Pharma owns our politicians,” RFK Jr. says. “And I’m telling them to get lost.
- Canada Announces New Tariffs After Trade Talks Collapse: Prime Minister Mark Carney said Canada will impose new tariffs on US products from 8 September after rejecting Washington’s demands, as new 50% US tariffs on Canadian goods take effect. Canadian measures will focus on sectors including steel and dairy, with further details expected in the coming days.
- Trump calls Tucker Carlson a loser and a low-IQ individual:
"Tucker Carlson just met with Lightweight “Former” Congressman, Thomas Massie, and Marjorie “Traitor” Greene, LOSERS ALL! Tucker’s “Views” have fallen through the floor, and will only get worse. Nobody cares about him any longer in that he has become totally irrelevant, and happens to be, surprisingly, a very Low I.Q. individual. He could barely get out of College, and maybe he didn’t, but only really dumb people can’t make it through that wonderful four year time in life! Tucker wants to run for political office, but he should be required to take a cognitive test. He’s got no chance, but could probably take a couple of points away from whatever the Republican ticket happens to be! Tucker is a loser, and always has been! Marjorie Taylor Brown (Green turns to Brown under stress!), a highly neurotic young woman, went from Ultra Conservative to a Liberal “Fool,” all in a matter of weeks, because I refused to return her phone calls — Not because I didn’t like her, just because I had no time. She was way down in the Polls in Georgia (because I took away my Endorsement), and would have had no chance at winning, so she, just like everyone else, “QUIT!” Thomas Massie has turned out to be a failed politician, and a real JERK. He thought it was really wonderful to vote, “NO,” on everything, no matter how good, strong, or proper the Legislation would be. What a team this would be, THREE LOSERS, and a pocketful of change! The only chance they have is to join the Radical Left Dumocrats, and try breaking into the Primary System. To all of them I say, PRAISE BE TO ALLAH! President DONALD J. TRUMP"
Kavanah for Zechiras Amalek
This week’s Maftir, Parshas Ki Seitzei, discusses the mitzvah of Zechiras Amalek, which we fulfill annually through the reading of Parshas Zachor.
Since this coming year is a leap year, there will be 13 months between last year’s Parshas Zachor and the upcoming Parshas Zachor. The Chasam Sofer explains that the annual reading nevertheless fulfills the mitzvah. The reason is that the natural process of forgetting after a year is not determined solely by the number of days that have passed, but also by the cycle of seasonal events that we experience throughout the year.
Nevertheless, the Maharam Schick (Mitzvos, no. 604) writes that the Chasam Sofer himself instructed his students that in a leap year, they should have specific kavanah to fulfill the mitzvah of Zechiras Amalek during the Krias HaTorah reading of Ki Seitzei. This ensures that a full twelve-month period does not pass without hearing the Torah’s account of Amalek.
Submitted: Anyone davening in a shul where a Bar Mitzvah bachur is receiving Maftir should have specific kavanah during Shvi’i to fulfill the mitzvah of Zechiras Amalek through the Torah reading. (Al pi Rabbi Shmuel Felder shlita.)
Parents of yeshiva and other nonpublic-school students are questioning why they can be charged nearly $950 per child for transportation while Lakewood taxpayers fund courtesy transportation for public-school students. But the role of the Lakewood School Transportation Association (LSTA) raises an even bigger question.
That language raises a serious question for LSTA. If LSTA assumes the district’s transportation responsibilities, which transportation protections and requirements does LSTA believe it has assumed and which does it claim do not apply?
LSTA has relied on a Lakewood School District age policy to deny transportation to some five-year-old children. If LSTA says it is not the district when parents ask why certain transportation protections apply, why is it relying on district policy when that policy is used to deny transportation?
And if LSTA can use district rules to restrict transportation, why should families be told that district transportation protections do not apply when those protections would help families who cannot afford the fee?
New Jersey transportation rules also recognize financial-hardship protections for certain transportation services, with financial hardship tied to the state's free and reduced lunch income standards.
What protection does LSTA provide to a family that qualifies under those income standards but cannot afford a transportation fee approaching $950 per child?
What law authorizes LSTA's current transportation program and its fees? Which responsibilities under N.J.S. 18A:39-1 has LSTA assumed?
Why is LSTA relying on a district age policy to deny transportation while claiming that district transportation requirements do not otherwise apply?
What financial-hardship policy is available to families who cannot afford the transportation fee?
The Legislature specifically gave the consortium the district's transportation responsibilities for eligible nonpublic-school students. If LSTA believes certain district protections do not apply, parents are entitled to know exactly which ones, and the legal basis for that position.
If LSTA can rely on the district's rules when those rules restrict transportation, why can't families rely on the district's transportation protections that would help them?.
(Current NJ transportation regulations HERE NJ Department of Education Student Transportation Here)
Just days before the school year starts, LSTA dropped a bombshell: non-mandated busing costs are jumping and families have almost no time to prepare or decide.
Here are the facts:
The subsidy that funded this program for the past 10 years has been cut by the Township.
Cost per child is rising from $385 to $945
You must opt in by Monday, August 24 at 11:00 PM or your child is automatically dropped from the route. Opting out gets you a refund of the $385 but then you're on your own for transportation.
For many families, this adds up to $3,000+ in new expenses this year alone.
Meanwhile, the early morning shachris buses run nearly empty, with parents already organizing carpools to cope but many schools don't even allow carpooling, forcing families into thousands of dollars of new expense they can't absorb.
And the Lakewood Township committee fully funds non-mandated busing for public school students while yeshiva and private school families in Lakewood get none of that support.
Where are our elected officials? Silent. Hiding behind monthly Zoom meetings while millions in tax abatements and years of budget surpluses go unexplained.
Lakewood families deserve transparency and they deserved more than a few days to prepare for a $3,000 hit to their budget.
Per New Jersey law Lakewood or any parents who qualify for the school lunch program do not have to pay if they can't afford it and can not be denied transportation according to NJ law. The schools and LSTA have so far not notified parents of this law and parents are given a form to either sign up or opt out.
- NJ Law Students who are unable to pay because of financial hardship shall not be excluded from receiving services described under this section. The criteria used to determine financial hardship shall be the same as the Statewide income eligibility standards established for free and reduced-price meals under the State school lunch program.
Full Nootice from LSTA:
August 20th, 2026
IMPORTANT NOTICE TO LAKEWOOD NON-MANDATED FAMILIES
Dear Parent of Lakewood Non-Mandated Student,
You are receiving this notice because one or more of your children are considered non-mandated for transportation purposes. A non-mandated child is one of the following: an elementary student who resides 2 miles or less from school or a high school student residing 2.5 miles or less. The information below pertains solely to Lakewood students and does not affect students residing in Howell, Jackson or Toms River.
Overview and Background:
The state of New Jersey has and will continue to provide transportation funding for all Lakewood mandated students. However, the LSTA does not receive any state funding for non-mandated students.
In spite of this, for the past 10 years, LSTA together with Lakewood township has been able to provide busing to thousands of Lakewood non-mandated students at a deeply subsidized rate. This was accomplished through Township financial support and LSTA's transportation system.
For the coming 2026-27 school year, the State has significantly reduced its municipal aid funding for Lakewood Township. As a result, the subsidy that helped fund this program for the past decade has been eliminated. There will no longer be any subsidies for these students to allay the full cost of up to $1177 per seat on the bus.
Understandably, this will impact many Lakewood families. LSTA has been able to reduce the full price of the seat to $945 per child for the 2026-27 school year. The $232 reduction is not a continuation of the township's subsidy. Rather, this was made possible due to the size and density of the Lakewood transportation routing network, together with the efficiencies and marketable purchasing power created by the volume of Lakewood routes.
The $945 rate reflects the adjusted costs available for 2026–27. Future pricing will be determined based on the funding and resources available for each respective school year.
What This Means For You:
If you would like your child to remain on a bus, please log into your family portal at www.lakewoodsta.org and opt in by Monday, August 24 at 11:00 PM.
Because routes are awarded based on both AM and PM seat, consistent with LSTA's standard practice, opt-in transportation is available for round-trip service only.
Families who have already paid $385 will have that amount applied toward the $945 cost, leaving a $560 balance per student, payable in another three installments. (This will be automatically applied upon submission of your opt-in form.)
Families who opt out of transportation will receive a refund for the $385 previously paid.
For families who need assistance accessing the portal or completing the opt-in, kiosks at the LSTA office will be open today, Thursday August 20th until 6 pm, Friday August 21st 9 am until 1 pm and Monday August 24th from 10 am until 10 pm.
If no action is taken by 11:00 pm Monday, your child will be opted out, and the routes will be adjusted and consolidated accordingly.
The Monday deadline is necessary so LSTA can promptly adjust routes, follow State requirements for awarding transportation routes, and provide vendors with the time needed to prepare for service beginning September 1st.
Due to the Township's budgeting schedule, the LSTA was only recently informed of the subsidy cessation. As this notice is coming very close to the start of the school year and will create an unexpected financial hardship for many families, we regret the timing and understand the difficulty this will present.
We are grateful that together with the Township, the LSTA was able to provide this deeply subsidized benefit to thousands of Lakewood families for an entire decade. We appreciate your understanding as we work to keep transportation as accessible as possible under the current funding structure.
Weather: 84° Cloudy early then strong thunderstorms developing this afternoon. Chance of rain 70%. Localized flooding is possible.
Flash flood watch issued Issued By US, National Weather Service from 12pm today until late tonight flash flooding caused by excessive rainfall continues to be possible. Rainfall rates of 1 to 3 inches per hour are possible.
7 Elul 3rd Yartzeit of Rav Aharon Shechter ZTL R"Y Chaim Berlin.
Yartzeit of R'Reuven Margulios (1889-1971). Author of over 50 books & sefarim including Margoliyos HaYam on Sanhedrin.
- The National Weather Service has issued a tornado watch in parts of New Jersey as waves of strong to severe thunderstorms are expected to move across the region Thursday afternoon and Thursday evening. The tornado watch was issued at 3 p.m. and covers seven counties in southern New Jersey: Atlantic, Burlington, Camden, Cape May, Cumberland, Gloucester and Salem.
- Frum Knesset member Threatens Consumer Boycott: United Torah Judaism lawmaker Meir Porush warned that the ultra-Orthodox community could leverage its annual spending of more than 52 billion shekels through a consumer boycott. He said religious leaders would issue instructions when necessary.
- Today at Yeshiva South Fallsburg, the Rosh Yeshiva, Rav Elya Ber Wachtfogel shlita, announced that he will be limiting his daily shiur to three times a week. On the other days, his son-in-law, Rav Meir Weinstein shlita, will deliver the shiur. (Israel media)
- LSTA Raises price for non mandated to $945
- Lakewood Town Square has been transformed into a designated parking area, with the township painting individual parking spaces across the plaza. The change comes as Lakewood officials grapple with a growing homelessness problem along Clifton Avenue and in the downtown area. The square, which has historically served as a civic gathering space, has increasingly been used as an encampment by homeless individuals. The newly marked parking spaces appear to represent a significant change in how the township intends to use the property.
- Howell, banned data centers becoming the 33rd municipality in New Jersey to ban AI data centers. The ban was applauded by Howell residents, community leaders, and grassroots climate activists who worked with Howell Mayor John Leggio and township council members. The ordinance passed the all-Republican council by a unanimous vote.A data center proposal was submitted days before the ban was introduced, according to the Asbury Park Press.
- Jackson, officials demanded a second post office after a population boom, according to the APP
- The new charedi “HaKahal” party held primary elections for the list pf candidates final results with approximately 14,500 voters: Attorney Shlomo Alboim of Bnei Brak won the top spot.
- Shas leader Arye Deri met with Rav Yitzchak Yosef asking him to continue what his father started as spiritual leader of the party.
- More Than 1,100 Undocumented Immigrants Hold Driver’s Licenses in Lakewood according to the latest report from NJ Assemblyman.
- Mamdani official reveals NYC may give grants to local grocers struggling to compete with the mayor’s city-run grocery stores.
- 11,000 Non-Resident Voters Confirmed as New Jersey’s Illegal Voting Scandal Grows: New Jersey election officials have removed more than 5,000 additional voter registrations and referred another 1,650 for county review.
- List of top 10 Israeli Yeshivos that received mosst funding through Keren Olam HaTorah from Juky 2024 - December 2025. There many more yeshivos and kolelim on the list. Data from Israeli journalist
Update: Airport workers return to work as flights resume with delays
Prime Mister Benjamin Netanyahu says Ben Gurion Airport will “continue to remain open and operate as usual” after workers at Israel’s main international airport staged a surprise work stoppage on the busiest travel day of the year so far. n a post on X, the premier says “Ben Gurion Airport will continue to remain open and operate as usual. Anyone who stands in the way will fly home.”
Ben Gurion Airport is experiencing major disruption after workers staged an unexpected stoppage on what is expected to be the busiest travel day of the year, with arrivals halted from 2 p.m. and departures operating on a revised schedule. Around 107,000 passengers and 600 flights were expected, with some flights already disrupted. The Israel Airports Authority blamed the workers’ union, while the Histadrut denied ordering a strike and attributed the chaos to severe staffing shortages and inadequate preparation. Transportation Minister Miri Regev threatened legal action against those responsible
· Trump: "No one has given the Islamic Republic of Iran a greater opportunity to make a Deal than me. TRAGICALLY, for them, they have failed to take it. Therefore, today, I am announcing the MOST CRUSHING ECONOMIC OPERATION EVER TAKEN AGAINST ANY COUNTRY! This will be Economic Warfare and Isolation on an unprecedented scale. Their navy is gone, their air force is destroyed, their military factories are now rubble, their currency is worthless, and their country is hanging by a thread. Today, I am also announcing that ANY country that allows its financial institutions, businesses, airports, or government entities to provide any type of lifeline to Iran will itself face TREMENDOUS Economic Consequences. Oil smuggling, swap lines, cash transfers, exchange houses, ship registries, front companies — It all needs to stop NOW. You know who you are. This will be an ECONOMIC D-DAY, and we need all of our Allies to stand with the United States of America to isolate, and defeat, the Iran threat. These maniacs are on the ropes, and these HISTORIC MEASURES will cripple them and their ability to project terror worldwide. IRAN WILL NEVER HAVE A NUCLEAR WEAPON. THANK YOU FOR YOUR ATTENTION TO THIS MATTER. President DONALD J. TRUMP"
- IDF: In a strike in the Al-Shati area: The IDF eliminated a company commander and three Nukhba platoon commanders in the Hamas terrorist organization. Yesterday (Tuesday), the IDF struck in the Al-Shati area and eliminated four Nukhba commanders from the Beit Lahia battalion in the military wing of the Hamas terrorist organization.
- Netanyahu: "We will not tolerate a Turkish military buildup in Syria that threatens Israel"
- Israeli officials directly warned Syrian officials in the days before the attack: "We know the Turks are on their way. This is a violation of the status quo." Israel realized relatively early on that the Turks apparently intended to create a permanent and significant military presence in Syria - and tried to avoid it through diplomatic warnings
- Trump on negotiating with Iran: "Maybe at some point, but right now, I think the situation is so good. But maybe at some point. Look, it's very simple. They have to get rid of them completely; they have to get rid of nuclear weapons. Iran cannot have a nuclear weapon. You know why? Because they use it. And we're not going to let them use it. So, Iran cannot have a nuclear weapon. And they won't."
- Hamas terror infrastructure and 5 launch pits destroyed by Paratrooper Brigade combat team forces.
- FT: Iran eyes military targets in Europe if U.S. President Donald Trump escalates the war.
- U.S. Ambassador to Israel Mike Huckabee: "Washington is working to establish a mechanism to prevent conflicts between Israel, Turkey and Syria. Hamas has not yet delivered a single weapon; Trump may consider military action against Iran."
- Reports out of Gaza say six senior Hamas police officers were killed in the strike on the Hamas police station. Four held the rank of Akid, equivalent to an Israeli sub-commissioner. One held the rank of Ra'ad, equivalent to a superintendent. One held the rank of Amid, equivalent to a deputy commissioner. - N12.
- Iranian General Mohammad Reza Naqdi:The current president of the United States is extremely short-sighted and childish. He has no long-term vision. When he says something, he doesn't even think about what will happen 24 hours later. His statements have no foundation or consistency. I trust a taxi driver much more than I trust him. Don't take what he says too seriously
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Weather: 88° Sunny to partly cloudy. Ret of week rainy forecast with thunderstorms through shabbos
6 Elul: The yahrtzeit of Rabbi Yom Tov Lipman Heller known as the Tosfos Yom Tov.
- Yahrtzeit of Rabbi Shimshon Chaim Nachmani known as the Zera Shimshon.
- Giyus. Finance Ministry data presented to Attorney General Baharav-Miara reportedly shows charedi families receive government subsidies at much higher rates than other Jewish Israelis from property-tax and rent assistance to childcare, mortgages, and public transportation. The figures were presented amid the dispute over enforcing the military draft on charedim.
- New study reveals high smartphone screen time among parents is linked to slower vocabulary growth in young children.
- The National Weather Service has issued a flood watch in New Jersey including Ocean county because of the threat of rapid flooding from heavy rain that's expected on Thursday, Aug. 20.Twelve counties in New Jersey have been placed under a flood watch issued by the National Weather Service at about 2:10 p.m. Wednesday, and it will be effective from noon on Thursday through 2 a.m. on Friday.
- Aliyah Debate on social media over how Israel can attract more American Orthodox Jews. Jake Turx argues Israel should build large-scale communities with housing, schools, shuls, shopping and professional networks tailored to Yeshivish and Chassidic families. Critics say aliyah necessarily requires adaptation. The broader question: Should American olim adapt to Israel, or should Israel build communities that make it easier for them to come as they are?
- Dr Rich Roberts of Lakewood is sitting Shiva for his mother Mrs. Ruth Gordon A"H, at 120 Arbutus Drive, Lakewood, NJ. Visiting hours are Wednesday through Monday at designated times, with Shacharis at 8:30 am and Mincha/Maariv 7:35/7:30 next week. Visiting is 10 am -12 pm and 2pm - 5:30 pm and after mincha until 9 pm and on Motzei Shabbos, from 9:30–10:30 pm. All tefilos will be held in the kollel room; please use the front porch, left door.
- Boys elementary schools start today expect traffic around the chadorim from drop offs and pick ups. The cheder Hachodosh opened today at the new Jackson location.
- Two change.org petitions launched to keep GroupMe SMS. HERE and HERE. Shuls that have the shul space and other platforms are not affected as they have their own text messaging technologies.
- A new report by Assemblyman Paul Kanitra estimates that more than 1,100 undocumented immigrants hold driver's licenses in Lakewood.
- Giyus: Breslov Chasidim traveling to Uman for Rosh Hashanah are planning to begin enlistment proceedings with the IDF so that they will be permitted to leave the country. This comes after the IDF announced that, following a change in policy at the airport, draft dodgers will not be allowed to leave Israel. CH13
- President Trump shows reporters a rendering of the new White House helipad, touting sweeping renovations to the property and saying people should see the work underway. "The White House was in terrible condition." Trump says the upgraded grounds will be used for major meetings, celebrations and visits from foreign leaders, including an expected visit from Chinese President Xi Jinping in the coming weeks
- $26 Million of New Jersey tax dollars go to pay for the legal defense of people that came here illegally.
- The Ocean County road crew is doing construction on Cedarbridge Avenue in Lakewood, reconfiguring the concrete barrier at the intersection with Avenue of the States
- New Jersey REJECTS Trump Administration’s New MMR Vaccine Policy State Says It Will Follow Its Own Guidance.
- Lakewood township will vote on the budget September 5 with a massive property tax increase expected.
- DHS Secretary Markwayne Mullin: Thank you, Gov Sherrill NJ We got news from your Secretary of State that New Jersey will participate with DHS in STOPPING aliens from illegally voting in your state. The 35,000 potential registered aliens we identified may only be the beginning look forward to helping NJ identify illegal voters and ensure election integrity
- Former Fauci adviser David Morens pleads guilty to conspiring to hide federal records about COVID-19 & its origins
- President Trump is celebrating Alex Vindman’s stunning Florida primary loss by reopening one of the biggest battles of his first term. “The most gratifying loss last night was that of a real treasonous creep, Alexander Vindman."The Dumocrats Fake Impeachment effort massively failed. Vindman should be prosecuted for what he did!" FOX
- Starting Jan. 1, about 540,000 New Jersey Medicaid recipients will face new federal requirements to maintain their coverage. Most adults ages 19 to 64 who receive Medicaid through the Affordable Care Act expansion will have to complete at least 80 hours per month of approved activities, such as work, school, vocational training, or volunteer work. Some parents, caregivers, and people with certain disabilities or medical conditions may qualify for exemptions. Affected NJ FamilyCare members will also have to renew their eligibility every six months instead of annually.
- On Monday, August 17, Lakewood Township EMS and the Lakewood Volunteer First Aid Squad participated in a joint training session on pediatric emergencies, led by the Medical Director, Dr. Matthew Letizia.
New Elul zman at Chevron Yeshiva
Weather: 84° Cloudy with occasional rain showers. High 84F. Winds light and variable. Chance of rain 60%
- Lakewood Boys elementary yeshivos begin cheder tomorrow.
- Trump: I have paused the 50% Tariffs against Canada, that were scheduled to kick in tomorrow morning for a three day period, based on the fact that Canada and the U.S.A., subject to the finalization of documents, have a DEAL! The great Keystone XL Pipeline, long ago killed by Sleepy Joe Biden, may be awoken from the grave! Thank you for your attention to this matter. President DONALD J. TRUMP
- BDE Petirah of Rebbetzin, Sarah Rochel Yisraelzon, a”h, daughter of Rav Yosef Shalom Elyashiv, zt”l, and the almana of HaRav Yosef Yisrael Yisraelzon, zt”l, she fell Ill this week and was niftar at the age of 93.
- Trump moves to accelerate development of psychedelic drug ibogaine as a treatment for serious mental illness, particularly among veterans.
- GroupMe is ending its two-way SMS service. Starting August 17, 2026, users will gradually receive a 7-day notice before group messages stop coming by text. After that, users will need the GroupMe app or website to participate in groups. Verification texts and invitations will still work.
- After 44 years, the remains of Sgt. First Class Yehuda Katz, who went missing during the 1982 Battle of Sultan Yacoub in Lebanon, have been recovered and returned to Israel. Katz was one of three Israeli soldiers who disappeared in the battle. The remains of his fellow soldiers Zachary Baumel and Zvi Feldman were recovered in 2019 and 2025, respectively. The IDF says Katz’s remains were located in an operation led by Military Intelligence with Mossad assistance and were positively identified before being returned for burial.
- Giyus: Israel’s Attorney General’s Office says Charedim still account for about 80% of draft evaders, despite an increase in Charedi enlistment. The office is calling for stronger enforcement, including economic sanctions and arrests, arguing that expanding the army is an urgent security need.
- Scientific study reveals TikTok videos deactivate key cognitive brain regions.
- 24 six Jewish music platform increases monthly premiums starting in September.
- FBI data for 2025 shows that Jews were the victims of 1,528 religion-based hate crimes, representing 63% of all religion-based hate crimes in the U.S. Muslims were next with 205 incidents. Overall hate crimes against Jews decreased from 2024, but Jews remained disproportionately targeted relative to their population size.
- One of the East Coast’s largest artificial intelligence data center projects is moving forward with its second phase after a controversial vote in New Jersey late Monday. The Vineland Planning Board voted 8-1 to approve the next phase of the massive DataOne campus after a meeting that stretched past 11 p.m. following hours of expert testimony and public comment.
- NJ Assemblyman Paul Kanitra: Our new report on the size, scope and cost of illegal immigration in NJ is now out. We’ve found a state so hopelessly compromised that we’ve officially requested federal intervention from the DOJ, DHS and House Judiciary Committee.
A staggering 8.2 Billion is being spent every single year on 737,000 illegal invaders in New Jersey. And it’s costing each of you $1,700 a year! If you rent, you can add another $1,000 annually onto that figure from illegals driving up housing costs. What’s even crazier is this is all despite an overall drop in illegals due to deportations.
- OHI and Wellpoint are hosting a free Back-to-School Community Day on Thursday, August 20, from 9:30 AM–12:30 PM at the Wellpoint Storefront, 100 Clifton Ave., Lakewood, NJ. Families can receive free backpacks and school supplies (while supplies last), plus glucose, blood pressure, and vision screenings and information about OHI services. Fulfill NJ will also distribute food from 10:30–11:30 AM
- LPD Traffic Alert: New Central Ave closed between Gudz Rd & Miller Rd due to a motor vehicle accident with a downed utility pole and wires. Avoid the area.
- The Israeli Prime Minister's Office has confirmed, in a statement in English, the attack by the Israeli Air Force in Syria: "Israel and Syria had agreed to maintain the status quo on security matters, which Syria was about to violate by allowing TURKISH FORCES to operate at an air base near Aleppo. Israel repeatedly warned Syria that such a deployment would pose a threat to Israel's security. Syria chose to ignore these warnings. Israel will not tolerate threats to its security and welcomes a return to the status quo."
- IDF Says Gaza Port Strike Targeted Nukhba Commanders: The IDF said it targeted Nukhba terrorists meeting at a caf茅 in Gaza City’s port, including a company commander, three platoon commanders and other militants; Palestinians reported six people killed. According to the IDF, one target participated in the 7 October massacre, and precautions were taken to minimize harm to civilians.
- US Sanctions ICC President The US Treasury announced new sanctions against International Criminal Court.
- Trump: There are no talks or conversations going on, or scheduled, with the Islamic Republic of Iran. The Naval Blockade remains in full force and effect. The Hormuz Strait is open and operating. All water mines have been removed or detonated. Thank you for your attention to this matter! President DONALD J. TRUMP
- Trump posts an image with the caption : “Strait of Hormuz - New US Territory” (see below)
- Iranian Deputy Foreign Minister Kazem Garibabadi Responds to Trump's post: "Soon His Illusion Regarding the Strait of Hormuz Will Be Corrected - Or We Will Correct His Illusions"
- The IDF eliminated an Islamic Jihad commander who infiltrated Kibbutz Be'eri and abducted an Israeli civilian during the October 7th Massacre.
- Reports of IDF warplanes attacking the Abu al-Duhur air base in eastern Idlib, Syria, in four airstrikes last night, targeting the runway. The attack came after footage was released of Su-22s conducting training flights over northern Syria.
- Senior Israeli official to Fox News when asked about the reported Israeli strikes in Syria overnight: “Highly sensitive intelligence was shared with the United States in advance, at the most senior levels of the various agencies and bodies," the official said. “Al-Sharaa understands that he cannot operate like the previous Syrian regime, which maintained proxy forces. It’s possible that he didn’t understand what was going on, or didn’t
- Hamas not giving up weapons: Despite reports that Hamas has agreed to begin the process of disarmament, Khaled Qadoumi, Hamas' official representative in Tehran, declares that "the weapons will remain as long as there is occupation."
- Ghalibaf, the head of the Iranian negotiating delegation, clarifies: We will not open the Strait of Hormuz until the following conditions are met: Lifting the naval blockade on Iran. Releasing frozen Iranian assets. Lifting sanctions on oil. Cessation of threats and military operations on all fronts: Lebanon, Gaza, Iraq and Yemen. Fulfilling the other conditions set out in the memorandum of understanding.
Weather: 88° Cloudy early with peeks of sunshine expected late. A stray shower or thunderstorm is possible.
- Likud Primary Vote Count Begins: Likud has begun counting ballots from 503 polling stations across 107 locations. Tens of thousands of forms are being reviewed by local committees before a general count at the control center, with final results expected in the morning and party officials predicting surprises in the candidate list.
- AOC is distancing herself from past positions on defunding police, prison abolition, & decriminalizing border crossings ahead of a potential 2028 run. Axios
- Rav Avrohom Yehoshua Solovwitchik delivered shiur today for the new zman as he takes up a new residence closer to the yeshiva.
- The New Jersey Department of Treasury has started the process of sending eligible New Jersey residents their ANCHOR benefit confirmation letters. These letters are for homeowners and renters who meet the eligibility requirements for the tax year 2025
- Moadim LSimcha order deadline today for upcoming Yomim Tovim
- Lakewood residents can register their bicycles for free through the LakewoodPDConnect app. Registration helps police identify and return lost, stolen, or recovered bikes
- Rides today at Hearthstone park in Lakewood for a fee.
- Georgian Court University in Lakewood expects about 2,000 students for the 2026–27 academic year, with increases in both freshman and transfer enrollment. Nursing programs are seeing especially strong demand.
Moishas supermarket in Howell expected to open before the yom tov shopping season. No word yet on when.
- A Middlesex County resident has become New Jersey’s first confirmed case of Zika virus since 2020, according to the state health department
- BDE: A 7-Year-Old Dies After Beit Shemesh Stabbing: A 7-year-old boy critically wounded in a stabbing at his home in Beit Shemesh was pronounced dead at Hadassah Ein Kerem Hospital. His 4-year-old brother was also stabbed and remains in serious condition. The Two children reportedly injured in attack by mentally disturbed neighbor, police on the scene as investigation continues.
- New Jersey - today is due date number 1 !! Voter records are due to House Representatives from New Jersey by 5:00pm. House Judiciary Chair Jim Jordan and House Administration Chair Bryan Steil gave NJ Secretary of State Dr. Dale Caldwell until 5:00pm today to produce a massive trove of physical and digital records.
- BDE: Reb Hershel Landau Z”L, Rosh Hakuhol of Shenya and Longtime Proprietor of Landau’s Grocery in Boro Park.
- New Jersey’s food insecurity rate jumped 75% in four years
- Municipalities and school districts owed New Jersey’s public worker health programs nearly $50.5 million in arrearages earlier this year, months before experts recommended steep rate increases for health plans that insure hundreds of thousands of school and government workers.
