Oif Simchas Wed 12 Teves

Weather tonight low of 27° Mainly cloudy with a mixture of rain and snow showers developing late.  Chance of precip 30%.

Chasunas:

Leizer - Kleinbardt Ateres Chaim Elazar

Monheit  - Bineth Ateres Esther 

Flohr - Lieberman Ateres Blima 

Wednesday December 31 News Updates Lakewood

Weather: 33° Sunny to partly cloudy. 

New Jersey could see up to an inch of snow on New Year’s Eve, with only light flurries reported early Wednesday, the National Weather Service said.

- It is related that Rabbi Levi Yitzchak of Berditchev would sometimes wish others “Happy New Year” on January 1. This is based on the pasuk in Tehillim, “G-d will count in the register of the nations.” The Apter Rov would wish fellow Jews a “Happy New Year” and bless them on January 1. The reason suggested is because he wanted to draw a stark contrast in the way Jews celebrate their New Year, with solemn prayer and reflection, thus bringing Divine grace upon oneself.

- Today in Surfside, FL The packed crowd at the Shul of Bal Harbour stands up and cheers for Prime Minister Binyomin Netanyahu, as the band plays 'Yamim Al Yemei Melech' for him.

- HHS freezing child care payments to all states until they prove funds 'being spent legitimately

The Trump administration is freezing federal child care funding in all states until they prove the money is being used legitimately, with extra documentation required from Minnesota and all states suspected of fraud.

- Trump: The United States has set a World Record on investments being made into a Country, and it is Trillions of Dollars more than number two, China. This is singularly because of TARIFFS, and the fact that if you make your product in the U.S., there ARE NO TARIFFS. Hence, factories and businesses are being built all over our Country - At a level never seen before. Congrats to the USA on this incredible achievement!!! President DJT

- Bingo sale  a dozen eggs for .99 cents until Jan 5 

- The hardest Wordle of 2025 was “inbox” (April 19), challenging players in 24 U.S. states, including New Jersey, and the UK, according to Preply.

- Trump: "There is more FRAUD in California than there is in Minnesota, if that is even possible. When you add in Election Fraud, then they are tied for first. Two Crooked Governors,two Crooked States

- Lakewood Township plans to appoint non-residents to several township boards. These members will have the authority to vote on zoning and financial decisions affecting local residents, despite neither living in Lakewood nor paying local taxes.

- As the mesivta farher season approaches, the takanos from last year appear to be holding so far, with no mesivtas beginning farhers before the agreed-upon date. The 8th-grade rebbeim are playing a key role in this, as they are not sharing student information until the allotted time. As for out-of-town mesivtos, the farher season is already in full swing.

- The Township of Lakewood approved agreements with Chaveirim, LCSW, Hatzolah, and Lakewood Search & Rescue, allowing each group to receive up to $2,400 per month in gasoline from the Public Works Department to support their volunteer services. Fuel use and activities must be logged for review by the Chief of Police. The agreements run January 1–December 31, 2026.

 New volunteer organizations such as Chavivim have not been added to the list

- According to the recent Township of Lakewood resolution establishing remote meeting procedures, the Township Committee will continue to hold only remote public meetings. Although officials claim this format increases public engagement, in reality, there is an average of only one public comment per meeting, usually from the same individuals. In contrast, neighboring towns like Toms River and Jackson hold in-person meetings, where politicians show respect to residents through face-to-face conversations.

- Giyus: MK Yitzchak Goldknopf said that draft evasion among secular Israelis in the Gush Dan area exceeds that of the entire Haredi population, citing comments by the head of the IDF Manpower Directorate during remarks on the draft law to students at Ulpanat Raaya in Beit El.

- The persecution of the Torah world in EY shows no signs of stopping: State Attorney Gali Baharav-Miara has instructed the IDF to immediately prepare a plan regarding enforcement measures against Torah students by the end of January, with an emphasis on “transition from disciplinary to criminal proceedings.” She also demanded that updated data on the enforcement actions taken be submitted to her within six days.

-Tolls on New Jersey’s Parkway and Turnpike will rise 3% on Jan. 5, the fifth increase since March 2020, despite opposition from the National Motorists Association. Garden State Parkway mainline tolls will go from $2.30 to $2.37 for cash and $2.17 to $2.24 for E‑ZPass, with various exit and entry ramps seeing smaller increases.

- During this year, IDF says 151 soldiers were killed. Among the data includes 21 soldiers who took their own life, the highest figure recorded in nearly two decades.

- Bochurim from mainstream yeshivos, including Chevron, are now demonstrating and blocking the busy Route 4 highway, following earlier protests in front of the military prison. Not affiliated with the Bnei Torah faction, these bochurim are taking matters into their own hands after a fellow Chevron yeshiva student was arrested and the leadership has taken no action.

- BDE: Petira of Mrs. Fraidel Hendel Rennert, a”h, wife of R’ Avraham Rennert shlit”a, The levaya was held this morning at the Lakewood Chapel. Kevurah will take place in Eretz Yisroel.

- Iranian Regime Gunfire Kills Teen Protester, First To Die as Nationwide Uprising Gathers Momentum

- The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services halted all federal child care payments to Minnesota about $185 million yearly after Nick Shirley's viral video exposed Somali-run centers that appeared vacant yet billed heavily, like Quality Learning Center's $1.9 million this year. 

- The Lakewood MUA is facing criticism for paying its commissioners high compensation despite meeting only once a month. Budget documents show that politically appointed board members receive generous stipends and benefits, with chairman Robert Singer’s total compensation nearing $87,000. He was just appointed for  an additional 5 year term

- New Jersey has 4,111 licensed child care centers and 1,378 registered family child care home centers.  

- Trump: "Much of the Minnesota Fraud, up to 90%, is caused by people that came into our Country, illegally, from Somalia. "Congresswoman" Omar, an ungrateful loser who only complains and never contributes, is one of the many scammers. Did she really marry her brother? Lowlifes like this can only be a liability to our Country's greatness. Send them back from where they came, Somalia, perhaps the worst, and most corrupt, country on earth. MAKE AMERICA GREAT AGAIN!!!

- Tensions in Toms River escalated as Mayor Daniel Rodrick’s Dec. 30 council meeting to vote on changing the township’s insurance was canceled. Council President Justin Lamb and three council members refused to attend, leaving no quorum and preventing any action. App

- NYC: Zohran Mamdani announced he will be sworn in on the Quran when he takes office, becoming the first NYC mayor to do so.

- Mr. Evgeny Alexandrovich Bondar Z”L,84, a Holocaust survivor and member of the Jewish community in Kherson, Ukraine, passed away after being critically wounded in a Russian missile attack.

- Supreme Court Halts 2 Billion Shekel Budget, Blocking Charedi Education Funding

Israeli Supreme Court Justice Yael Vilner issued an interim order on Wednesday to freeze the budget of approximately 2 billion shekels approved by the Finance Committee a few days ago, about 1 billion of which was earmarked for Charedi education. Vilner ruled that, until further notice, no funds may be transferred under that decision, which was challenged in the Supreme Court by Yesh Atid MKs, claiming the approval was made illegally.

Secular Culture Is a Threat to Jewish Survival - Only the Torah Can Save Us

Rav Aharon Feldman shlita, Rosh Yeshiva of Ner Yisroel, spoke at an assifa organized for English speakers in Beit Shemesh. The Rosh Yeshiva describes how the crux of the issue is a fight over the definition of what it means to be a Jew is and that even if everything could be made kosher there is no way for an ehrliche Yid to put himself in an environment which directly contradicts the Torah's definition of a Jew. He also recounted the tragic story of a talmid who decided to join the 'Chashmonim' brigade and was mechallel Shabbos for the first time in his life on the first Shabbos in the army under the threat of arrest by his commander.

Oif Simchas Tuesday 11 Teves

Chasunas:

Drebin - Coleman Fountain Ballroom

Alstader - Weiss Ne'emas Hachaim 

Kiddush Levana opportunity 

- Tonight Motzei Asarah Beteves, yartzeit of the ערך שי tonight at B"M Erech Shai 114 Madison Avenue  Seuda in Beis Hamedrash at 8:30pm

The Rav of Woodridge, Rav Yitzchok Lebovitch, will speak at 9:30 PM

- Night Seder

Israel News Tuesday Dec 30

Day 817

- Israel and the US agree on a deadline for Hamas disarmament. Trump and Netanyahu set the deadline for two months from now.

- After Trump’s warning of strike, Iran threatens ‘harsh’ response to any attack

Pezeshkian warns against ‘any cruel aggression’ following US president’s remarks alongside Netanyahu that he’d OK new action if Tehran rebuilds nuclear or ballistic missile program

- Iran conducted ballistic missile test in Ilam province

- The data presented to Americans by Netanyahu during the visit: 60,000 Kalashnikovs held by Hamas in the Gaza Strip. This data was collected by Military Intelligence and Shin Bet in the days before the Prime Minister's trip to Florida in order to present it to the Americans, and to demand waiting with the rehabilitation of Gaza until its disarmament.

- The gift that Prime Minister Netanyahu gave to President Trump: a US flag inlaid with precious stones mined in the Holy Land by the Holly Gems company.

Tuesday Asara B'Teves December 30 News Updates Lakewood

כה־אמר ה' צבאות צום הרביעי וצום החמישי וצום השביעי וצום העשירי יהיה לבית־יהודה לששון ולשמחה ולמעדים טובים והאמת והשלום אהבו -  זכריה פרק ח פסוק יט

Weather: 33° Windy. Winds could occasionally gust over 40 mph.

the National Weather Service said early Tuesday. “Wind gusts of 40-45 mph are expected. Winds will begin to diminish this afternoon. 

- US dep of Health and Human Services:We have frozen all child care payments to the state of Minnesota. You have probably read the serious allegations that the state of Minnesota has funneled millions of taxpayer dollars to fraudulent daycares across Minnesota over the past decade.

- Yeshiva Mir Yerushalayim announces an Evening of Chizuk HaTorah, similar to the Lakewood Adirei HaTorah event. The gathering will take place in Yerushalayim at the Arena event stadium on Daled Adar, and is intended for all Bnei HaYeshiva

Fast is over 5:30 pm the 50 minute zman or 5:26 according to myzmanim.

- Tonight Yeshiva Bais Hatalmud annual parlor meeting Motzei Asara B'teves Mussar shmuz 4;55 by Rav Feivesheuvitz followed by maariv at 5:30 pm with a milchig Buffet. Guest speaker Rav Binyomin Steinberg shlita  from New City.  At Yeshiva Ohr Torah 780 Vasser lakewood

- Starbucks plans to close about 400 locations, mostly in major metropolitan areas. Dozens have already closed, including 42 in New York City.

- The U.S. State Department warned Iran against expanding its combat drone fleet and acquiring missile-related items in violation of UN restrictions, saying Washington will curb Iran’s missile and weapons programs and hold accountable those who aid its proliferation efforts.

-Iranians are reporting that the IRGC are now using live fire against protesters.

- Schools have half day dismissal today.

- A group of 100 random Balei Batim calling themselves "The Coalition for Talmud Torah & Security" signed a petition not to support yeshivos  kollelim or talmidei chachomim who publicly oppose and protest against the IDF. The group says Jews face growing global threats and that Jewish safety depends on Israel and the IDF. While supporting Torah study, they will only fund religious institutions that do not publicly oppose or delegitimize the IDF, stating this is about unity and security, not the draft debate.

In contrast the keren olam Hatorah raised $100 million from world Jewry. The names on the Coalition’s list do not include donors like those who contributed to Keren Olam HaTorah.

- 9th Yartzeit today  of Rav Moshe Shapira zatzal  on עשרה בטבת see besped from Rav Michoel Sorotzkin shlita Here

-New Jersey drivers will see higher tolls in 2026. The NJ Turnpike and Garden State Parkway will get an automatic 3% increase. Delaware River bridges to PA will rise to $2 with E-ZPass and $5 without. Port Authority crossings to NY are also expected to go up an additional 25 cents starting early 2026.

- Gourmet Glatt Jackson is officially open!

Hours: Sun–Tues 7:30 AM–9:00 PM, Wed until 10:00 PM, Thurs until 11:00 PM, Fri 7:00 AM until 2 hours before Shabbos.

Located at 2275 W County Line Rd this is  the 3rd Gourmet Glatt location in the Lakewood area.

- Gedolei haTorah from the Chassidishe and Sefardi communities convened Sunday night, led by HaGaon HaRav Chacham Moshe Tzedakah shlit”a, for a special asifah against the giyus law. A massive atzeres za’akah of all kehillos was announced for next Monday in Yerushalayim, with participation of several leading Admorim.

- After over 30 years, the MetroCard is being phased out, ending an era in NYC transit. Starting Wednesday, riders can no longer buy or reload MetroCards, as the city fully transitions to the OMNY tap-to-pay system using cards or smart devices.

- Frum mayor in Jackson? While Lakewood  appoints Mayor Coles for a 10th consecutive term, a Shore News Network article details that Jackson could elect its first Jewish mayor in 2026 as Mr. Eli Shem Tov, a Sephardic Jewish candidate officially announces his bid for mayor.

- A scheduled special meeting of the Toms River Township Council was canceled due to lack of a quorum, stopping Mayor Rodrick’s last-minute push to switch the township’s insurance carrier over concerns that the current $1 million liability cap is too low.

- Australian police say the two terrorists who opened fire at the Chabad Chanukah celebration on Sydney’s Bondi Beach acted alone, with no evidence they were part of a terrorist cell.

- HUD Secretary Turner reports uncovering $5 billion in fraudulent rental assistance payments, including to undocumented individuals and deceased persons, in NYC, DC, and other major cities.

- Israel’s Chief Rabbis called on Jewish communities worldwide to recite mourning prayers on the Fast of the 10th of Teves for victims of the War in 1948 whose yahrtzeits are unknown. Since 1951, this day has served as a general Kaddish day for all those lost whose exact dates of passing are unknown, including Holocaust victims

The 3 Fast Days In Teves

 The Behag lists a number of days where the custom is to fast because of various historical tragedies, including both 8 and 9 Tevet. While the Tur and Shulchan Aruch quote this list in OC 580, the Beis Yosef and the Aruch haShulchan  note that they've never heard of anyone fasting on the days on that list.

Three Day Fast?

According to the special Selichos prayers said on the fast a unique aspect of Asarah B’Teves is that we are actually fasting for two other days of tragedy as well; the 8th and 9th of Teves. In fact, both the Tur and Shulchan Aruch assert that if possible one should try to fast on all three days. Nevertheless, of the three, only Asarah B’Teves was actually mandated as a public fast day.

The 8th of Teves

On the 8th of Teves, King Ptolemy II (285 - 246 B.C.E.) forced 72 sages separately to translate the Torah into Greek (the Septuagint). Although miracles guided their work and all of the sages made the same slight but necessary amendments, nevertheless this work is described as “darkness descending on the world for three days”, as it was now possible for the uneducated to possess a superficial, and frequently flawed understanding of the Torah, as well as providing the masses with a mistaken interpretation of true morality.

The 9th of Teves

Although several decisors write that the reason for fasting on the 9th of Teves is unknown. nonetheless many sources, including the Kol Bo and the Selichos recited on Asarah B’Teves, as

Oif Simchas Monday 10 Teves

Kiddush Levana  opportunity 

Weather tonight low 27° Winds could occasionally gust over 40 mph.

Chasunas:

Karp -  Blumenthal Ateres Esther 

Friedman - Prawer Lake Terrace

Pinter - Goldschmidt Ne'emas Hachaim

- Bnos Yaakov Dinner at Lakewood Cheder

- Hachtara for Rav Dovid Shnitlinger shlita who will serve as Rav at B"M Chanichei Hayeshivos of Pine Lake Park Manchester  at Estreia hall

- Chanukas Hamikva at Royal Grove Jackson 

Fast of Asara B'Teves begins tomorrow 6:06 am

Netz 7:18 am

Several Vasikin minyanim will say selichos before davening due to the late zman netz.

Monday December 29 News Updatea Lakewood

 Weather: 55° Rain likely. Becoming windy in the afternoon. Chance of rain 80%. Winds could occasionally gust over 40 mph.

- Fast of Asara B'Teves tomorrow morning begins at 5:51 AM or at 6:06 AM dawn fixed minutes and ends at 5:30 pm with 50 minute zman

-  Tefillos for HaRav Reuven Feinstein, shlota who has been hospitalized name is Shalom Reuven ben Shima.

- Soft opening today at Gourmet Glatt Jackson 

A Lakewood man was assaulted in a road-rage incident after stopping for pedestrians at a flashing yellow light at Clifton ave and 1st street. The attack left him with injuries to his ribs, neck, face, and knees, and the suspect fled the scene.

-For the first time in 25 years, Jews will be allowed daytime access to Kever Yosef, staying until 8:00 a.m. and able to daven Shacharis, under a new policy announced by Defense Minister Yisroel Katz.

- Secretary Kristi Noem says Homeland Security Investigations and ICE are on the ground in Minneapolis right now conducting a massive investigation on childcare and other rampant fraud. More is coming

- Winds picking up during the afternoon

- Helicopter pilots identified 

Officials confirmed that Kenneth L. Kirsch, 65, of Carneys Point, has died from injuries sustained in a mid-air helicopter collision over New Jersey yesterday. The other pilot, Michael Greenberg, 71, of Sewell, was pronounced dead at the scene on Sunday.

-Yeshiva Tiferes Torah (YTT) Campaign Video Skit  2025/26. HERE Donate Here

- IRS 2026 changes:

EITC: Max for 3+ kids rises to $8,231

Federal taxes: Single $100K W‑2 filer pays ~$13,114 (down $335)

HSA limits: $4,400 self / $8,750 family

- Tefillos for the Spinka Rebbe Naftali Tzvi ben Perel undergoing a medical procedure today in Manhattan 

- Filler Up: Gas prices in New Jersey have dropped to a record low of about $2.70 per gallon. That relief may be short-lived, however, as prices are set to rise by four cents per gallon on January 1 after the Assembly voted to increase the gas tax.

- The Lakewood Township reorganization meeting will take place this Friday morning, when the Township Committee is scheduled to vote on a new mayor. Assuming all is the same Mayor Ray Coles is expected to be reappointed again. Township officials frequently stress that Lakewood is the fourth-largest municipality in New Jersey and argue that its size warrants greater attention and resources from Trenton. Yet despite those claims, the township’s governance continues to resemble that of a much smaller town. The swearing-in ceremony will once again be conducted virtually via Zoom, a practice that began during the COVID era. The online-only format stands in sharp contrast to the township’s repeated assertions of Lakewood’s prominence, replacing what was once a well-attended public ceremony at Town Hall with a limited, remote event

- NYC Mayor Eric Adams announced that Maimonides hospital in Boro Park will join NYC Health + Hospitals, pending final approvals. The move faced opposition from local frum residents and community leaders, who worry the merger could compromise the hospital’s independence and its long-standing mission serving the neighborhood.

- Giyus: The Admor of Slonim declared there is no compromise on the current giyus law, calling it a threat to Torah and Jewish continuity. He stressed a firm “NO” to the government, army, and courts, urging mesirus nefesh to protect Torah and chinuch ha’banim in the ways of our forefathers.

- Giyus: Maariv reports that Netanyahu ordered an additional review of the Knesset vote on the conscription law. The tally still shows a majority in favor, but legal counsel and the IDF oppose the current bill, arguing it is legally flawed and unlikely to withstand judicial scrutiny. As a result, there is speculation the law could be invalidated even if it passes.

- Viral footage of a Minnesota fraud scandal has hit 110 million views, showing alleged misuse of state funds at empty childcare centers and sparking national scrutiny. Elon Musk shared the video on X and called for prosecution of Governor Tim Walz, arguing the case highlights broader abuse of government programs.

oann.com

- Elon Musk criticized Democrats over immigration policy, claiming that government benefits act as a “money magnet” for undocumented immigrants. He argued that if those incentives were removed, immigrants would leave and Democrats would lose political support. Musk further alleged that Democrats encourage immigration in order to expand their voter base.

- Heavy rain and strong winds caused flooding and hazardous conditions in Yerushalayim today, prompting emergency responses and road disruptions as a major winter storm swept across Israel.

- Silver shot up to $83 because of high demand for solar panels, electric cars, and AI tech. Then it fell 10% after the exchange made traders put up more money. Rumors about a big bank losing money are unconfirmed, but there’s still not much silver available, and China plans to limit exports next year.

- Hachtara took place  for Rav Menachem Indich shlita who will serve as the rav of the Reserve neighborhood kehila in Jackson.

- New Jersey's most relaxed cities

These cities rose to the top for low-stress living in 2026, ranked according to city size:

Jersey City (250,000+ population)

Newark (250,000+ population)

Elizabeth (100,000 to 249,000 population)

Paterson (100,000 to 249,000 population)

Clifton (under 100,000 population)

Trenton (under 100,000 population)

- For the first time in Lakewood a business networking event was held exclusively for the heimish chassidish community. Organizers called the event a success and say they plan to hold an even larger gathering in the future.

Israel News Monday December 29

Day 815

Trump/Netanyahu meeting: 

- President Trump to the Gavili family: "I am doing everything, and I will bring Ran home."

- Gavili family after their meeting with Netanyahu and Trump: "We received a listening ear and a willing soul from both leaders. We asked President Trump that just as he returned all the hostages, we also want our Rani at home. We urged him to apply all pressure levers on Hamas. We cannot move to stage B without Hamas fully fulfilling its part."

- President Trump: It was a great meeting, and we reached many conclusions. We are with you and will continue to be with you. We will succeed in maintaining peace in the Middle East. It is an honor for me to be your friend

- Trump: We will expand the Abraham Accords very soon. Saudi Arabia will also sign the Abraham Accords at some point

- Trump: "If Hamas does not disarm, it will be terrible for them. It will be really, really bad for them. Israel cannot be blamed," the president added

-Trump was asked about the voluntary migration plan and the transfer of Gaza residents to another country "Let's not talk about it, because we don't want the controversy. Right now we are helping Gaza. I think more than half of Gaza's residents would leave if they were given the opportunity."

- Netanyahu says Trump will receive the Israel Prize, marking the first time it has ever been awarded to a non-Israeli

-  Trump said the U.S. and Israel are doing everything possible to bring home the remaining hostage, Ran Gavili

Trump warned that if Iran continues its missile or nuclear programs, he would support an Israeli strike, calling immediate action necessary if nuclear activity persists

Trump predicted that President Isaac Herzog will grant Netanyahu a pardon, saying he was told it is already underway

On Gaza, Trump said deploying Turkish soldiers could work but depends largely on Netanyahu, while praising Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan

Trump said moving to Phase B is possible, but only if Hamas is fully disarmed.

- Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu begins his meeting with US Secretary of State Marco Rubio at Mar-a-Lago in Florida. Netanyahu is slated to meet US President Donald Trump at 1 p.m. local time  Reports say Netanyahu aims to convince Trump that only the threat of war can bring peace. Leaders agree Gaza must be demilitarized and Iran kept from rebuilding, but with Hamas digging in its heels and Hezbollah rearming, the PM wants enemies to fear more attacks

- PM Benjamin Netanyahu and his wife Sara met in Florida with the parents of the fallen captive Ran Gavili, ZL, whose body is still held in Gaza by Hamas.

- Hamas admits 4 months after his elimination: Hamas military wing spokesman Abu Ubaida was eliminated.  Months after their respective assassinations by Israel, Hamas’s armed wing, the al-Qassam Brigades, officially confirms the deaths in May of its commander Muhammad Sinwar and Rafah brigade chief Muhammad Shabana, the death in June of senior Qassam officer Hakem al-Issa, and the death in August of Hudhaifa Samir Abdallah al-Kahlout  better known as Abu Obeida Qassam’s longtime spokesman.

Oif Simchas Sunday 8 Teves

Durst  - Weissman Bais Faiga

Schwartzman - Perlow Lake Terrace 

Rabin - Zell Fountain Ballroom 

Grinberg  - Zarkin Kesser Moshe Yehuda 

Wegh - Kaufman Ateres Blima 

Rosen - Yarmish Ateres Esther 

Singer - Margolese Ne'emas Hachaim 

Dancour - Moerman Magen David Deal,NJ

Sunday December 28 News Updates Lakewood

Weather: High of 38° cloudy during the afternoon.  Winds light and variable.

Tomorrow 55° Rainy and windy 

-NJ Gov Phil Murphy: Strong winds are headed our way beginning tomorrow morning, with the potential for freezing rain tonight in North Jersey. We urge you to be cautious of icy roads and drive safely.

-Out of town Yeshiva in NJ sends all bochurim hone for 3 days due to rising cases of Flu and viruses 

- A Russian ballistic missile landed right next to the Matzoh bakery in Uman causing severe damage. BH no injuries reported.

- Several cars were burglarized over shabbos in Lakewood at the Carasaljo st area

Link to FAA News community

https://chat.whatsapp.com/HzZTdaO6Fpo8pKfp5CcmXw

- Hachnosas sefer Torah at B"M Heichal Yehuda Tzvi Walsen Woods Toms River procession leaving 3 pm to the shul from Hundred Oaks Dr.

- Trump: I  just had a good and very productive telephone call with President Putin of Russia prior to my meeting, at 1:00 P.M. today, with President Zelenskyy of Ukraine. The meeting will take place in the main dining room of Mar-a-Lago. Press is invited. Thank you for your attention to this matter! President DJT

- Hatzulas Nefashos based in Jackson has launched a community-wide recruitment campaign to enlist volunteer EMTs, medics, drivers, physicians, and other medical professionals to serve the greater Lakewood area. The initiative includes mailed postcards and advertising, and is conducted under the guidance of the organization’s Vaad HaRabbanim.

- Bulk sale at bingo a case of 100 9×13 aluminum pans is $25 (last year was $18)

- With just days left before January 1, there is still no relief for rising health insurance premiums. Many plans have increased by hundreds of dollars per month, forcing people to sign up for health share plans or shop for the cheapest catastrophic coverage available. At the same time, hospitalizations from the flu and other illnesses are increasing, raising concerns as insurance coverage changes take effect in the coming week

- Heimishe Business Alliance Networking event

Heimih Networking event this evening in Lakewood. The HBA Networking Event is designed for the growing heimishe communities surrounding Lakewood‭, taking place 4pm- 10:30 pm at the Beru hall. More here

- Giyus: Former Sephardic Chief Rabbi Rav Yitzchok Yosef criticized Israeli military police for what he called discriminatory arrests of yeshiva students, alleging they disproportionately target Sephardic youth, particularly from peripheral communities.

- Mid air collision in South  Jersey A helicopter and a small plane reportedly crashed near the Hammonton airport in New Jersey, with emergency responders, including Atlantic County fire units, on the scene. Early reports indicate one person has died and another was injured in the incident, though full details and the cause of the crash are still emerging

- Giyus: Protests took place today at the Coca-Cola junction in Bnei Brak following the arrest of additional yeshiva bochurim for draft evasion. Community members expressed outrage over the silence of leadership, noting that just two months ago a million-strong atzeres was held after a bochur from Ateres Shlomo was jailed, yet now the IDF continues arrests while the promised action from rabbonim and political leaders remains absent.

- The flu is hitting New Jersey harder and earlier in the season than the past two years, state and federal data shows. New Jersey is one of five states currently experiencing “very high” levels of flu activity, according to the United States Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Localy there's several residents from Lakewood area hospitalized.

-  Arab Reports claim Israeli special forces carried out a covert operation in Gaza City, abducting an Islamic Jihad terrorist believed to be linked to the holding of the body of Ran Gvili, as part of ongoing efforts to recover his remains.

- Giyus: The asifah proclaimed by the Badatz of Eidah HaChareidis  before Chanukah, protesting the draft law and its framework, which was postponed due to severe weather conditions, will b’ezras Hashem take place next Monday in Yerushalayim. The gathering is expected to be attended by Admorim, Rabbonim, and Roshei Yeshivos from across the full spectrum of the chareidi community.

- A second patient has died after being infected with Legionella bacteria linked to the water system at St. Joseph’s Medical Center in Paterson, North Jersey.

- The feud between Toms River's mayor and the leader of the Toms River Regional School District has continued to escalate, with the mayor calling for Superintendent Mike Citta's resignation, and Citta responding that he will not "cower to the politics that are meddling in this district."APP reports.

- A Minnesota resident claims to have uncovered a massive childcare fraud in Minneapolis and St. Paul, alleging that dozens of licensed daycares appear empty despite reporting full enrollment. According to the claims, these centers receive an average of about $2.5 million annually while showing no evidence of children or active operations, raising concerns of what could become one of the largest fraud cases in the state’s history.

Motzei Shabbos Vayigash 5786 News Updates

Weather:  low of 18° Cloudy early partly cloudy after midnight. Tomorrow rain showers in the afternoon

- Caution black ice on hard surfaces and sidewalks 

- What happened to the snowstorm?

The storm that was expected to bring significant snowfall fell short after dry air lingered longer than forecast and warmer temperatures developed in the middle levels of the atmosphere. As a result, much of New Jersey—particularly central areas saw little snow, with precipitation instead falling as sleet and freezing rain, creating more hazardous conditions. Around 0.5 inches fell in the  Lakewood area.

- Melava Malka with Admor Toldos Yehuda Stutchin 9:30 pm at Yeshiva Ktana hall

- Melava Malka in support of Bais Mesrash Breslov Lakewood at  Bnos Devorah hall

-  YTT melava Malka kumzitz in Fountain Ballroom 

- The meeting of the Chassidishe Moetzes in EY that was to take place tomorrow has been canceled due to the Gerrer rebbe not feeling well and would not be able to attend. It was expected to announce a unified stance about the Giyus law currently up for a vote.

- Tefilos for Rav Meir Greineman shlita of Bnei Brak who was hospitalized on shabbos after suffering a medical episode he's from  the last remaining nephews of the Chazon Ish name is Meir ben Tzivia

-New York last week most flu cases ever recorded in a single week (subclade K)

Nationally 49,000 hospitalizations and 1,900 deaths from flu so far this season. 

New Jersey, Ohio and Maryland have all reached moderate levels of illness, per the CDC data, while New York is the only state in the U.S. with a high level as of Friday.

-Shiva for Rav Nachman Sonenzon Zt"L is at 678 Park Avenue Lakewood shachris 8:30am Mincha 1:30pm Maariv 8:30 pm please do not cone bet 3-5pm or after 10pm

- PM Netanyahu is scheduled to meet with President Trump in Florida on Monday, December 29. This meeting will focus on Iran, Lebanon, and Gaza. 

- Major cities across the West are canceling New Year’s events over credible terror threats.

- A major move for affordability may be coming: President Trump is reportedly convening his economic team at Mar-a-Lago this  week to craft what could be the most aggressive housing plan in U.S. history, with top advisers saying a carefully vetted list of housing ideas will be reviewed for possible action next year.

Lakewood Zmanim עש"ק פרשת ויגש תשפ"ו

Friday, December 26, 2025 / ו׳ טבת תשפ״ו ערב שבת פרשת ויגש

candle lighting: 4:19 pm

Shkiah/sunset 4:37 pm

 

Weather:

Tonight: 29° Snow this evening will transition to light rain late. Chance of precip 100%. Snow accumulating 3 to 5 inches.

Shabbos day 35° Snow during the morning will taper off and give way to cloudy skies during the afternoon. Chance of snow 70%.

הִנֵּ֨ה אֲנִ֚י לֹקֵ֙חַ֙ אֶת־בְּנֵ֣י יִשְׂרָאֵ֔ל מִבֵּ֥ין הַגּוֹיִ֖ם אֲשֶׁ֣ר הָֽלְכוּ־שָׁ֑ם וְקִבַּצְתִּ֚י אֹתָם֙ מִסָּבִ֔יב וְהֵֽבֵאתִ֥י אוֹתָ֖ם  אֶל־אַדְמָתָֽם - הפטרה ויגש  

Friday December 26 News Updates Lakewood

 Friday, December 26, 2025 / ו׳ טבת תשפ״ו ערב שבת פרשת ויגש

candle lighting: 4:19 pm

Shkiah/sunset 4:37 pm

 

Weather:

 Tooday 31° cloudy with periods of snow this afternoon Chance of snow 80%. Snow accumulations less than one inch.

Tonight: 29° Snow this evening will transition to light rain late. Chance of precip 100%. Snow accumulating 3 to 5 inches.

Shabbos day 35° Snow during the morning will taper off and give way to cloudy skies during the afternoon. Chance of snow 70%.

widespread snowfall totals of 4 to 8 inches in northern half of the state. Up to a foot of snow is possible in some higher elevations in northern New Jersey where intense snow bands could form, the National Weather Service said. For counties south of I-195, expect 1 to 5 inches of mixed snow and sleet, with a glaze of ice possible along and west of the Delaware River.

Halachos for  removing snow and ice on שבת

 Here

- NJ declares state of emergency with up to 9 inches of snow, wintry mix looming in winter storm

-There is USPS mail service today while some Federal offices are closed 

- Fast of Asara B'Teves is this Tuesday 

- The Admor M'Toldos Yehuda Stutchin Rav Mottel Zilber shlita will be spending shabbos in Lakewood all Tefilos and tish will take place at Yeshiva Ktana 120 2nd street

- Admor of Sanz-Zhvill shlita will spend shabbos at the Sanz Klausenberg shul in Oak n Vine the Friday night Peiros tish will be in CHateau Park sefard shul

- Jackson New Mikva in Royal Grove opening today at Chatzos

- BDE: Petirah of Rav Nachman Sonenzon Z"L this morning at the age of 56.

Approximately twenty years ago, on Purim morning, R’ Nachman suffered a heart attack while learning in Beth Medrash Govoha. The episode left him significantly weakened, and he never fully recovered. Since that time, he had been undergoing rehabilitation at home. He was niftar suddenly on Friday morning.The levaya will take place at 1:00 pm in BMG  Yoshon Bais Nedrash on 7th street with Kevurah to follow in the Lakewood bais olam.

Hook up number BMG conference

 (857) 347-0100

 ID: 125005

- Gourmet Glatt Jackson location will open IYH this coming week

- Giyus: Two bochurim from prominent Ashkenazi yeshivos were arrested by the Military Police one from Ateres Shlomo (Sorotzkin) and the other from Chevron Yeshiva (Givat Mordechai).

-  Giyus: The Rosh Yeshiva of yeshivas Kisse Rahamim, Rav Tzemach Mazuz, protested yesterday near Prison 10 together with his talmidim, where a talmid of his is being detained, and sharply criticized the Charedi members of Knesset. Regarding the draft law: “I think it’s a bad law.” Regarding the frum nesset members he siad “None of them called me.” Regarding the arrest of his student: “There are tens of thousands of secular draft dodgers.”

- Today  Friday, December 26, 2025, following President Trump’s declaration of a federal holiday, federal government offices, some federal services like Social Security and passport agencies, and certain U.S. embassies were closed. Most other services including USPS mail delivery, banks, stock markets, and retail stores remained open and operated normally. The holiday affects federal agencies only, while private businesses generally continue regular operations.

- Lakewood Tomchei shabbos adopt a family monthly campaign donate Here 

- Point Pleasant draw bridge to close for two months for maintenance

The Lovelandtown Bridge connecting the borough to Bay Head is scheduled to close for two months beginning Jan. 5 for key repairs, the state Department of Transportation said. Crews plan to re-tension the support cables on the Route13/Bridge Street bridge that passes over the Point Pleasant Canal, officials said.(APP)

- Twelve men were arrested across New Jersey during a six-day undercover operation, targeting attempts to lure minors as undercover agents posted as minors The operation was led by the Middlesex County Prosecutor’s Office with multiple law enforcement agencies, and most of those arrested are non-U.S. citizens. including a jackson man who is a nono citizen and was released after his arrest. 

-Amid growing concern over a recent phenomenon in which yeshiva students from abroad coming to Israel are expressing interest in enlisting in the IDF, Rav Yehoshua Eichenstein, rosh yeshiva of Yad Aharon, addressed hundreds of overseas yeshiva bochurim. He contrasted American and Israeli culture and warned against what he described as the ideological agenda behind military conscription. He characterized American culture as “innocent” and rooted in religious freedom, while describing Israel as a Zionist state using the army to shape a “new nation.” He cautioned that conscription, including of women, is designed to weaken religious observance, noting that even many religious-Zionist youth abandon their faith after service.

- Tump will meet with Ukrainian President Zelensky on Sunday at Mar-a-Lago, according to a senior Ukrainian official. The existence of the meeting indicates significant progress in negotiations on Trump's peace plan

- President Donald Trump announced that under his orders, an American strike was carried out last night against ISIS targets in Nigeria. According to him, the Department of Defense executed a series of precise strikes

- Dan Elkayam HYD, a French national who was one of 15 people killed when two gunmen opened fire at a Hanukkah gathering last week in Sydney, Australia, was laid to rest Thursday in Ashdod.Israel

Israel News Friday Dec 26

 Day 812

- Two Killed in Terror Attacks in Northern Israel

A Palestinian terrorist from the West Bank carried out a combined car-ramming and stabbing attack in northern Israel on Friday, killing two people and wounding two others. The attack began shortly after noon on Route 71 near Beit She’an, where the assailant rammed his vehicle into a 16-year-old boy, lightly injuring him, and then struck and killed 68-year-old Mordechai Shimshon HYD. While fleeing toward Afula, the attacker stopped near Kibbutz Ein Harod and fatally stabbed 19-year-old Aviv Maor HYD. Near the entrance to Afula, he attempted another attack, lightly injuring a man, before fleeing on foot. The terrorist was shot and wounded by a civilian, captured by authorities, and taken to a hospital in moderate condition.

Oif Simchas Thursday 5 Teves

Kiddush Levana opportunity 

Chasunas:

Silberman - Werblowsky Ateres Esther 

Juni - Kaufman  Ateres Blima

Storch - Gross Lake Terrace 

- Parlor meeting for Tomchei Shabbos in the Prospect Square neighborhood at Trudy ln.

-At Breslov Shteeble in Jackson Rav Asher Zelig Margulios will speak on Likutei Maharan at 340 Leesville Jackson 9:00 pm

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

Thursday December 25 News Updates Lakewood

 Weather: 48° partly cloudy this afternoon

No transportation today. Box stores  closed

Updated weather:  Burlington, Camden and Ocean counties - Winter weather advisory from 3 p.m. Friday to 10 a.m. Saturday. Mixed precipitation expected. Total snow and sleet accumulations between 1 and 3 inches and ice accumulations around a light glaze

- A delegation of Chemed personnel met with the Sanzer Rebbe in EY to discuss the possibility of opening a hospital in Lakewood, inspired by the Rebbe’s founding of Laniado Hospital in Netanya.

-A messy winter storm remains on track to hit New Jersey starting Friday afternoon with 4 to 8 inches of snow expected across much of the state and an increased chance of sleet.

The National Weather Service has issued winter storm watches for 16 counties expected to see the highest snowfall totals. The heaviest snowfall is expected Friday night, with rates potentially exceeding 1 inch per hour. South of I-195, including Ocean, Burlington and Camden counties, the forecast becomes more uncertain.

These areas remain under a winter storm watch but may see more mixing with sleet and possibly freezing rain, which would reduce total snow accumulations from the current 4 to 6 inches in the forecast.

- Update: The new proposed Belzer community is in Walden, NY off rt 52 in Orange county 20 minutes from Bloominburg and 25 minutes from Ellinville.

- Giyus: Demonstrations of solidarity are taking place outside Prison 10 for a Sephardi bochur who was arrested last night after his parents took him home to Be’er Sheva when he was not feeling well in yeshiva. Additional protests are being held in Jerusalem in front of light rail stations.

- TAG has approved a new Tesla internet-blocking solution developed by CSO Radio, which disables LTE and Wi-Fi while keeping the vehicle fully functional and allowing system updates. The reversible modification costs $275,

- Someone has won the 1.8 billion dollar Powerball jackpot with the winning ticket sold in Arkansas. The winning numbers were 4-25-31-52-59 and 19  New Jersey had nine third-prize Powerball winners, eight worth $50,000 and one worth $100,000. The locations where those tickets were sold has not yet been revealed.

- While  Lakewood area boys elementary schools have already announced their opening dates for the upcoming school year, girls’ schools have yet to make any announcements. Due to the unusual calendar this year with Labor Day falling a week before Rosh Hashanah girls could end up with nearly three weeks off starting from Rosh Chodesh Elul. This situation is creating a nightmare for parents, who are facing added childcare challenges and the extra expense of arranging interim day camps after summer camp ends.

- Rachmastrivka Lakewood has announced the purchase of the property at 613 Prospect Street for the construction of their new school building.

- New Belz yishuv in the tri state area there is already hope that within two to three years it will be possible to establish the new “Kiryat Belz USA,” when the first hundreds of apartments will be ready to accommodate Belz Chasidim and many others as well. It encompasses a gigantic area of more than twelve hundred acres of land, with another fifteen hundred acres under contract. in order to ensure maximum success, the location is being kept hidden from public view for now

- Tonight The Breslov Shteeble in Jackson will host Rav Asher Zelig Margulios who will speak on Likutei Maharan at 340 Leesville Jackson  9:00 pm

- Extending PATH train service to Newark Airport will be delayed for at least 10 years after it was left out of the new capital plan to cover higher costs to replace the aging airport monorail system.

- Giyus: The Chasidishe Moetzes of Agudas Yisroel in EY is expected to convene this  Sunday  afternoon at Moshav Ora with the Admor of Vizhnitz

- The Stoliner Rebbe addressed smartphone use, acknowledging that technology is now unavoidable but insisting on strict safeguards and filtering. He rejected total bans as unrealistic, comparing devices to other necessary but potentially dangerous tools, while stressing that technology is not a religious necessity and must be used with responsibility and restraint.

- Toms River MUA commissioners voted to continue receiving full taxpayer-funded healthcare benefits despite working about one hour per month. The benefits, included in the 2026 budget, have drawn criticism from Mayor Dan Rodrick, who called the arrangement political patronage and vowed to end it. In nearby Lakewood, MUA commissioners who are politically appointed and connected receive about $15,000 in annual compensation plus full health benefits for roughly the same one hour of work per month.

- Zohran Mamdani disclosed that his transition team raised $3.7 million ahead of his Jan. 1 inauguration, far more than recent New York City mayors raised before taking office.

- Thousands of people are expected to gather today on the banks of the Delaware River in Titusville, New Jersey and Washington Crossing, Pennsylvania for the 73rd annual reenactment of General George Washington’s daring crossing of the river on the night of December 25, 1776.

- Russian strategic bombers approached Britain, prompting NATO to scramble fighter jets in response, The Mirror reports. The Russian Ministry of Defense called it a “routine flight” over neutral waters in the Barents and Norwegian Seas.

- Last week, the Boro Park Matzah Bakery on 14th Avenue in Brooklyn was destroyed by a fire that took firefighters seven hours to extinguish. The bakery’s owner, R’ Chaim Brown, a Vizhnitz chassid, stood across the street, distributing flyers and declaring “Ein Od Milvado” emphasizing that everything Hashem does is for the good. Despite the financial loss, he explained that the fire was an act of Hashem and promised to hang a large sign proclaiming the same message to the community. Which he did this week.

JHS: The History and Observance of Nittel Nacht in Modern Times

JHS: The History and Observance of Nittel Nacht in Modern Times

Wednesday December 24 News Updates Lakewood

 Weather: 47° Sunny and windy. Winds could occasionally gust over 40 mph.

Watching a potential winter storm Friday night with Snow accumulating 3 to 5 inches.

A mix of snow, ice and rain is forecast to hit the Jersey Shore starting Friday afternoon and bringing up to six inches of snow in some areas.

Here are the current projected snowfall totals for Monmouth and Ocean counties:

Jackson: 1 to 3 inches

Lakewood: 2 to 4 inches

Manchester: some ice

Toms River: 2 to 4 inches

Freehold 3 to 6 Inches

- Mikie Sherrill: On Day One, I’m declaring a State of Emergency on utility costs by freezing rate hikes and cutting through red tape to drive more energy into our state.

This week, I brought together the heads of New Jersey’s energy companies to discuss my plan to get it done.

- Bingo now has a special bulk value sale until January 6 on paper goods and other  food products 

- Powerball Jackpot $1.7 Billion drawing tonight 

- Early dismissal today for many schools as there won't be transportation available later on due to the holiday.

- Nittel nacht tonight for those who observe Minhag Nitte others do so on january 6th

- Due to the holiday, there will be limited transportation tomorrow, with some schools having early dismissals and increased carpooling.

- Belz Chassidus announced that they are in the process of purchasing a parcel of land for the future Kiryas Belz in the U.S., which will provide housing for the chasidim. The property is located in the NY/NJ area, though the exact location has not yet been disclosed

- At last night’s Planning Board meeting, the board approved all applications presented, including the new building expansion for Bais Kailah. There was discussion about the lack of an extension connecting the two Vine Streets; planning officials said they have been attempting to open it for over 40 years, but the DEP has denied approval due to concerns about insects and endangered bats in a nearby stream. The new Bais Kailah building will include a simcha hall in the basement, which will be restricted to Shabbos use only.

-  Giyus: Next week, the Foreign Affairs and Defense Committee will hold another blitz of discussions on the draft law: on Sunday, a continuous session from morning until evening, and on Tuesday, two sessions one in the morning and one in the afternoon, after the plenum adjourns.

- The township has not yet announced its annual reorganization meeting, which typically takes place on January 1. Assuming no changes, Mayor Coles is expected to be reappointed as Mayor of Lakewood by the Democratic minority on the township committee.

- Rachmastrivka Chasidus in Lakewood has gone under contract for a 3.5-acre property for the future construction of their school under the mosdos in Lakewood.

-  The U.S. Syrian Jewish community has purchased two residential towers in Yerushalayim for over one billion shekels, housing roughly 200 families. The unprecedented communal deal aims to preserve community continuity, support developers amid a slow housing market, and address rising antisemitism abroad. Some families already have children in Israel, while others may relocate in the future.

- Tehillim an elderly man was hit by a car accident in Boro Park at 13th and 46th name is Chaim Tzvi ben Leah rachel

- A hakomas matzeiva was held at the kever of Rabbi Eli Schlanger HYD, the Chabad shliach in Bondi, Sydney, Australia, who was tragically murdered in the Bondi terror attack on Chanukah.

-A day after multiple explosions at a Pennsylvania nursing home killed two and injured 20, authorities surveyed the damage and began identifying victims. One of the deceased was identified as a 52-year-old nursing aide. The blasts partially collapsed the Silver Lake Nursing Home (Bristol Health & Rehab Center) on Tuesday, Dec. 23.

           Satmar rebbe in Snowy KJ

Israel News December 24

 Day 810

- The Prime Minister’s Office said this evening that, under the direction of Netanyahu, Hostages and Missing Coordinator Gal Hirsch traveled to Cairo this morning for talks with senior officials on efforts to recover the body of fallen hostage Ran Gvili HYD. The delegation included representatives from the IDF, ISA, and Mossad

- Talik Gvili, mother of the sole remaining deceased hostage Ran Gvili, says in a public statement that she is joining Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on his flight to the US for his December 28 meeting with US President Donald Trump.

-  PM Netanyahu in a message to Iran: “New threats are born, we are not seeking conflicts but our eyes are wide open’

- Hamas says that an explosive device that lightly wounded an IDF officer earlier today in Rafah was caused by undetonated ordnance left over by the Israeli military itself. The IDF officer was wounded when an explosive device hit a Namer armored personnel carrier in Rafah’s Jenina neighborhood, located on the Israeli side of the Gaza ceasefire line, according to the IDF.

Netanyahu: "Today we experienced an attack by Hamas, they have no intention of disarming, we will respond."

- Israeli Deputy Minister Almog Cohen reveals on the Knesset floor that already on the evening of 10/7, the Shin Bet, with the help of an informant in the Hamas terrorist organization code name 'Green Sardine,' knew about a gathering of Nukhba terrorists in mosques around 03:30 AM - information that, if it had reached the right places, could have prevented the death of many Israelis.

- PM Netanyahu's office: Hamas continues to violate the ceasefire and the Trump plan. Their ongoing public refusal to disarm is a blatant ongoing violation, and today their violent intentions and violations were again confirmed by the detonation of an explosive device that injured an IDF officer. Hamas must be held to the agreement they signed, which includes removal from power, disarmament, and de-radicalization. Israel will respond accordingly.

Hashkafa Q & A

Hashkafa with Reb Gershon Ribner shlita.

Identifying the forces propelling our youth to reject our cherished religion. 

Oif Simchas Tuesday 3 Teves

Chasunas:

Olshin - Kalmanowitz Kesser Moshe Yehuda

Teitelbaum - Fleischer Fountain Ballroom

Greenwald - keilson Ateres Reva

Perlman - Kotler Bais Faiga

Gordon - Silber Ateres Bluma

Goldman - Lieberman Ateres Esther

Silberman Ne'emas Hachaim 

Tuesday December 23 News Updates Lakewood

Weather: 40° Cloudy with occasional rain showers.Chance of rain 60%.

 winter weather advisory remains in effect until 4 p.m. Tuesday for Morris, Sussex, Warren, eastern Passaic and western Bergen counties.

Motzei shabbos Watching a potential winter storm  Snow accumulating 3 to 5 inches.

Powerball jackpot $1.7 Billion drawing Wednesday night

- With many health insurance plans seeing premium increases through the Marketplace, residents should be aware that several medical providers in the Lakewood area and across New Jersey are changing which insurers they accept. Some hospitals and medical groups have announced they will no longer accept Horizon Blue Cross Blue Shield plans in 2025–2026, prompting patients to check their coverage options and consider alternatives such as Oscar, AmeriHealth, UnitedHealthcare, Aetna, or other insurers

- At the levaya of Rav Shlomo Weisberg zt”l, it was noted that the day coincided with the yartzeit of his rebbe, Rav Chaim Shmulevitz zt”l. Divrei hesped were delivered by Rav Yaakov Lazer Schwartzman shlit”a, Rosh Yeshiva of Lakewood East, where Rav Shlomo zt”l was among the founding talmidim.

- A mass casualty incident was declared after a suspected gas main leak caused an explosion and fire at Silver Lake Nursing Home in Bucks County, Pennsylvania, leading to partial building collapse. Multiple people were injured and trapped, and search and rescue operations remain ongoing as emergency crews from across the region continue to respond.

- Shiva info: The Mitnick–Kanarek families will be sitting shiva for Mrs. Malkie Mitnick a”h in Lakewood from tomorrow through Friday at 1511 Cindy Court, Raintree.

- The U.S. Supreme Court blocked President Trump from deploying the National Guard to Chicago to protect federal immigration enforcement agents. The decision was 6–3, with Justices Alito, Thomas, and Gorsuch dissenting.

- Gas prices have dropped to a record low of $2.74 per gallon this year, but are expected to rise by 4 cents after January 1 following a gas tax increase approved by New Jersey lawmakers.

-Cuts to Medicaid are expected to cause an estimated 350,000 New Jersey residents to lose coverage. Health insurance premiums are rising dramatically, with some Affordable Care Act plans in New Jersey increasing by as much as 175%.

Hospitals say they will be hit two ways financially. Fewer Medicaid patients means less guaranteed income. And hospitals will likely provide more free treatment under the state’s charity care law to those who have no insurance.

-President Trump said tariffs are driving strong U.S. economic results, claiming no inflation and improved national security.

- BDE: Petirah of Harav Shlomo Weisberg zt”l of Lakewood, son of R’ Yaakov Weisberg zt”l who was from the early talmidim of Rav Aharon Kotler zt”. Rav Shlomo a  known Talmid chochom and talmid muvhak of Rav Nochum Parzovitz ztl and Rav Shneur Kotler zatzal. He was a  magid shiur in Peekskill yeshiva years ago.  He is survived by his family, including his son, Rav Yosef Weisberg shlita, the Rav of Bais Medrash of Pine Lake Park in Manchester. and brothers R' Momshe Zev of Lakewood and R' Isser Zalman of Monsey. 

The levaya is scheduled to take place on Tuesday at 2:00 PM at BMG’s Yoshon Bais Medrash on 7th street.

A follow up levaya at JFK cargo  aeea with Kevurah in Eretz Yisroel.

- A serious fire broke out early Tuesday morning at the Korn’s Bakery factory  in Boro Park on 15th Avenue, halting production and causing significant damage throughout the facility.

- Jewish students feel unwelcome  and under attack  at N.J. colleges. The FBI is paying attention. (Nj.com) 

-The FCC has banned DJI drones, affecting first responders nationwide, including the Lakewood Police. Police in Lakewood say drones are helping them respond in a smarter and safer way.(NBC Philadelphia)

-Lakewood planning board meeting today 6:00 pm  watch livesrream on the agenda

Minor subdivision on Forest Ave to create 2 lots

Minor subdivision on June St & Farry St to create 8 lots

Minor subdivision on Spruce/Washington/Lincoln Aves to create 2 lots

Major site plan for a warehouse on Ocean Ave

Major site plan for Bais Kaila school addition on Spruce Street

Yeshiva Yaaros Devash,  1420 Oak Street  request to install a chain link fence trash enclosure instead of concrete block wall

- Satmar Rebbe Rav Aaron Teitelbaum was ranked No. 34 on the list of the Top 100 Most Powerful New Yorkers, making him the most influential rabbi in Rockland County. He leads the Ahronim Satmar community and recently urged followers to consider relocating from Williamsburg to Rockland and Orange counties due to rising housing costs. During the recent election, they endorsed Mayor-elect Zohran Mamdani and said that he did not consider Mamdani to be antisemitic.  Source 

- Registration has reopened for New Jersey’s Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP) for eligible Ocean County families, with limited spots available. The program helps cover child care costs for working parents or those in approved education or training. Registration is currently limited to priority groups, including families experiencing homelessness, children with special needs, and households earning under 100% of the federal poverty level.

- A Lakewood man was arrested after police linked two overnight incidents involving a firearm and reported gunfire. Officers recovered shell casings and later stopped and arrested 39-year-old Julio Cordongiron without incident. He was also found in possession of suspected controlled dangerous substances.

- The New Jersey Legislature approved a bill yesterday that would establish a new automatic voter registration system in the state, by switching the Motor Vehicle Commission voter registration process to an opt-out standard.

Any eligible citizen applying for a license or REAL ID will now automatically be registered to vote, with an option to later opt out. The bill now awaits Governor Murphy's signature. (One jersey schorr)

- Transportation Secretary Duffy says he’ll pull roads and bridges funding from blue states that are giving driver’s licenses to illegals.

- New Epstein files say Trump flew on Epstein’s jet at least 8 times in the 1990s—more than previously reported

-DOJ official twitter post: The Department of Justice has officially released nearly 30,000 more pages of documents related to Jeffrey Epstein. Some of these documents contain untrue and sensationalist claims made against President Trump that were submitted to the FBI right before the 2020 election. To be clear: the claims are unfounded and false, and if they had a shred of credibility, they certainly would have been weaponized against President Trump already. Nevertheless, out of our commitment to the law and transparency, the DOJ is releasing these documents with the legally required protections for Epstein’s victims.

-Giyus: Israel Hayom': Head-to-head between Agudat Yisrael and 'Degel' - Outrage in Degel HaTorah over Agudat Yisrael's campaign against the draft law. A senior party official: "This involves misleading and inaccurate information, to put it mildly. Agudat Israel is trying to mislead the public that doesn't know the law. Meanwhile, we are the only ones truly caring for the Torah scholars."

- Trump admin to begin garnishing wages of defaulted student loan borrowers in January 

- An article published on a local website regarding ICE enforcement in Lakewood has placed the community in the spotlight and triggered a wave of antisemitic comments targeting the community.  Some remarks accuse the community of hypocrisy, alleging gentrification while claiming concern for undocumented immigrants.

It is important to note that these online news platforms and comment sections do not reflect or represent the Lakewood community in any way, nor do they speak for the community at large.

Oif Simchas Monday 2 Teves

Chasunas

Hiller - Davis Kesser Moshe Yehuda 

Dubovick - kletnick Fountain Ballroom 

Twersky - Gordon Ateres Reva

Weinstock - Shwartz Ateres Chaim Elazar 

Borchardt - Burzstyn Ateres Esther

Sonnenberg - Goldring Lake Terrace 

Schwartzman - Yoffe Bais Faiga 

Lachman  - Goldschmidt Neemas Hachaim 

Tonight  Rubashkin Seudas Hodaah celebrating 8 years since the Nes on Zos Chanukah a evening of Bitachon. An uplifting night of bitachon, chizuk, joy, live music & dancing, including a special personal Yeshuos video presentation. Monday night, Dec. 22, 2025 (ב’ טבת תשפ״ה) at 8:45 PM, at Bnos Melech, 550 James Street , Lakewood.

Monday Zos Chanuka Dec 22 News Updates

כָּךְ אָמְרוּ יִשְׂרָאֵל לִפְנֵי הַקָדוֹשׁ בָּרוּךְ הוּא עָשִׂינוּ לְךָ מְנוֹרָה בִּימֵי מֹשֶה – וְכָבְתָה, בִּימֵי שְׁלֹמֹה – וְכָבְתָה מִכָּאן וְאֵילָךְ אֵין אָנוּ מַמְתִּינִים אֶלָּא לְאוֹרְךָ. שֶׁנֶאֱמַר: "כִּי עִמְךָ מְקוֹר חַיִים, בְּאוֹרְךָ נִרְאֶה אוֹר". ילקוט שמעוני

Weather: 39° Sunshine  then a few afternoon clouds. 

Most of New Jersey could see a dusting to up to 2 inches of snow overnight into Tuesday morning. There's also a chance of ice north of I-78 The snow is expected to change to rain along the Jersey Shore by late Tuesday morning as temperatures warm above freezing.

- President Donald Trump claimed he plans to build two “Trump-class battleships,” calling them the largest and most powerful ever made and “100 times” stronger than any previous battleship. He said they would be part of a future “Golden Fleet,” with the first ship named USS Defiant, though no official Navy confirmation has been issued.

- A bill expanding New Jersey’s family leave protections to employees at businesses with as few as 15 workers has passed the state Senate and is headed to Governor Phil Murphy’s desk. Currently, family leave benefits apply only to employers with 30 or more employees. The legislation would allow more workers to take paid time off to care for a sick relative or a new child while receiving 85% of their earnings, pending the governor’s signature.

- Powerball jackpot rises to $1.6B, Estimated cash value stands at $735.3M  drawing tonight

- Tonight Rubashkin Seudas Hodaah celebrating 8 years since the Nes a evening of Bitachon. An uplifting night of bitachon, chizuk, joy, live music & dancing, including a special personal Yeshuos video presentation.Monday night, Dec. 22, 2025 (ב’ טבת תשפ״ה) at 8:45 PM, at Bnos Melech, 550 James Street , Lakewood. Featuring Harav Pinchos Lipschutz, Harav Sholom Mordechai Rubashkin, and Harav Hagaon Yerucham Olshin (Divrei Bracha).

- Tefilos for Harav Reuven Feinstein Shlita  who is undergoing a medical procedure today name is Sholom Reuvein ben Shima (Chasdei Lev)

- Girls school off today

- LPD: Squakum Rd just north of the Lakewood border/Howell border is closed in both directions due to downed wires. Rd to reopen 5pm

- An estimated 600,000 Jews in New Jersey are living in fear as unthinkable hate becomes the “new normal,” with rampant harassment and violent assaults increasingly targeting Jewish communities across the state. More 

- A new personal injury lawsuit filed in Ocean County Superior Court alleges that Lakewood Township and Ocean County created a dangerously defective pedestrian crossing that led to a child suffering severe and permanent injuries after being struck by a vehicle. The complaint states the child was lawfully walking in a marked crosswalk when the collision occurred and argues it was the foreseeable result of long-standing government neglect, unsafe roadway design, and a pedestrian-hostile intersection not a freak accident. Faanews.com 

 - US Ambassador to Israel, Mike Huckabee at the INSS conference: “I don't know if Iran ever took Trump seriously until the night the B-2 bombers flew to Fordo. I hope they got the message, but apparently, they didn't get the full message, because it seems they are trying to rebuild and find a new way to dig the hole deeper to secure it further. If the Europeans don't understand that this poses a real threat to all of Europe as well, then they are even dumber than I sometimes think they are."

- Governor Phil Murphy signed a new law sponsored by Assemblyman Avi Schnall that reforms New Jersey’s construction inspection system by requiring inspectors to provide a four-hour arrival window instead of an all-day wait. The change aims to cut wasted time, reduce delays, and give contractors and small businesses more predictable construction schedules.

- Giyus: Protests took place Monday on Route 4 near Bnei Brak, closing down highways in the area in response to the arrest of yeshiva bochurim. During the disturbances, police were seen forcefully pushing and removing a Chareidi women and daughter near Bnei Brak as they attempted to cross the street bochurim from yeshiva Rav Chaim Ozer in Bnei Brak joined the protest. 

- A festive atmosphere marked the final New Jersey Assembly legislative voting session of 2025, with baked goods and chocolate coins shared, as dozens of bills received final votes during the hours-long session.(Onejersey)

-Nichum Aveilim:

Rebbetzin Miriam Landynski-Perlow A"H – 215 Hudson Ave, Lkwd Thursday morning

R' Zelig Goldman Z"L – 708 Park Ave, Lkwd Wednesday morning

Mrs. Agi Braun A"H – 78 Enclave Blvd,  Lakewood Thursday morning

Rabbi Elimelech Monoker Z"L – 91 Lublin Ter, Westgate, Friday morning

Reb Shia Chaim Fischman Z"L – 4A Dogwood Ct, Country Pl, Lakewood, Friday morning

- Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese issued an apology to the Jewish community following the Bondi Beach massacre, but critics say he stopped short of taking real personal responsibility or outlining concrete actions to confront the growing threat of Islamic extremism. Albanese dismissed criticism of his response as “partisanship,” further drawing backlash from those who argue stronger measures are urgently needed.

- The Trump administration is recalling 48 U.S. ambassadors from diplomatic posts in multiple countries, according to U.S. officials.A senior State Department official said the move is a routine step taken by administrations, with ambassadors expected to support and carry out the administration’s policies.

-US Senator Lindsey Graham in Israel: 'We cannot allow Iran to produce ballistic missiles because they could overwhelm the Iron Dome' The US appears to be planning to join Israel directly in the next war against Iran

זאת חנוכה segula for Parnassa

 The last day of Chanukah known as Zos chanukah there are special tefillos to recite and segulos for parnasah on זאת חנוכה. The sefer נטעי גבריאל brings down a מנהג ספרדים to recite 308 times the פסוק of "שובו שברו לנו מעט אוכל" as a Segulah for Parnasah on Zos Chanukah the word שוב is B'gematria 308.

 A old minhag in Yerushalayim to daven for rain-

זאת חנוכה" - היום האחרון של החג היו מביאים קערות גדולות אל תלמוד תורה, ליד בית הכנסת יוחנן בן-זכאי". שם היה מתאסף כל הציבור, לתפילת הגשם. הראשון" לציון היה עומד על הבמה, קוראים את שיר השירים ומתפללים על הגשמים 

ה'בני יששכר' מביא בשם המקובלים, שהחל מראש חודש אלול ועד 'זאת חנוכה', מאירה ברקיע תבנית יד פשוטה, המקבלת שבים, ויד זו עוברת לאחר 'זאת חנוכה'. רמז לזה נרמז בפסוק "בזאת יכופר עוון יעקב", שב'זאת חנוכה', שאז קוראים את פרשת "זאת חנוכת המזבח", אז הוא גמר כפרת עוון יעקב 

מכיון שב'זאת חנוכה' קוראים בקריאת התורה על חנוכת המזבח, לכן, כך מסופר בספר "מנהגי ארץ ישראל" שתלמידי התלמודי תורה ומלמדיהם בראשיהם סבבו בימי החנוכה על בתי הגבירים והנכבדים, שם נתנו להם מאכלים טעימים וכסף. מכל המאכלים והכסף ערכו סעודה גדולה וטעימה ב"זאת חנוכה" בתלמודי התורה, וסעודה זו נקראת בשם "חנוכת המזבח". לפני הסעודה אמרו 308 פעמים (!), כמנין המילה "שבו", את הפסוק "שובו שברו לנו מעט אוכל" וגם 'שיר השירים' בניגון מיוחד. לאמירה זו ישנו טעם על פי הסוד. ומעניין שבשו"ת שיח יצחק (להגר"י וויס זצ"ל אב"ד ווערבוי שבהונגריה) מספר שמנהג הספרדים לומר בתתי"ם את הפסוק "שובו שברו לנו", כאמור. אך הוא כותב שאומרים אותו רק- 8 

פעמים ולא- 308 פעמים

בלקוטי מהרי"ח כתב, שהיו גדולים במהלך הדורות שנהגו לערוך סעודה גדולה ב'זאת חנוכה', "ובוודאי יש בזה כוונה גדולה". והליקוטי מהרי"ח בעצמו מסביר שיתכן שנהגו כן מפני שהוא היום בו נגמר מצוות הדלקת נרות החנוכה,  ועושים סעודה ל"גמרה של מצווה  

נר ח' זאת חנוכה והדליקו נרות בחצרות קדשך

                                זאת חנוכה תשפ"ו

אמר רבי ישראל מרוז'ין: מה שהצדיקים יכולים לפעול מהשם יתברך בראש השנה ויום הכיפורים - יכול יהודי פשוט לפעול מהשם יתברך בזאת חנוכה   

- Admor M'Kosov Hadlokas Ner Chamuka at at 22 Isabella Dr. Lakewood 8:30pm

- Admor M'Skulen Lakewood hadlakas ner Chanukah 8:30 pm every night 547 Park ave

- Admor M'Rachmastrivka Oak n Vine hadlokas Ner Chanukah 9:00pm

-Niemark shul Toms River  Zos Chanuka mesiba 7:00 m

Chasunas:

Kastan  - Gindi Fountain Ballroom 

Zos Chanukah: the Gra (O.C. 670) brings Chazal that the mishkan was finished on 25 kislev but the dedication was pushed off till Nissan because that was the month Yitzchuk avinu was born, but kislev was paid back with the chanuka of the chashmonuim.

Yitzchuk avinu was moser nefesh by the Akeida and the Rambam says that the makom akeida is the makom mizbayach! The dedication of the mishkan and Bais hamikdush needed total mesiras nefesh! When the chashmonuim were moser nefesh for the avodas hamikdush then kislev was zoche to have its own Chanukah! (Rav Eliyuhu Levin shlita) May we all be zoche be mamshich and internalize the oros of Chanukah!

At Belz Hadlokas Ner Chanuka tonight in EY 

Sunday Rosh Chodesh Teves Chanuka News Updates

Sunday, December 21, 2025 / א׳ טבת תשפ״ו

ראש חודש טבת

Weather: 49° A good deal of sunshine. temps falling to near 35. Winds up to 25 mph. Higher wind gusts possible. Tonight low of 22°

Shkiah 4:35 pm

Zman Hadlaka al pi minhag Hayeshiva in Lakewood  tonight Zos chanuka is 4:58 pm candles should burn until 6:17 pm

- Minhag Hayeshiva today to recite חזרת הש"ץ in full during Mincha

- Powerball jackpot now at $1.6 billion drawing Momday night 

Free Chanukah Event today Sunday at American Dream mall with live music, interactive shows, Chanukah crafts. Giveaways Family fun Sunday, Dec 21 | 1:15–3:45 PM shows located at court A stage

- Up to 2 inches of snow is possible late Monday into early Tuesday for New Jersey from a clipper system. Roads could be slick Tuesday morning south jersey will get less than 1 inch.

- Gourmet Glatt Jackson location construction completed. Grand opening soon date  TBA.

- Smash house burger soft opening today at American dream mall. Kosher  food court

- Chuck E Cheeze Chanuka special available through Chai Lifeline ask at  Brick location today and Monday.

-  Over  2.5 million illegal immigrants have left the country since President Trump took office, with 1.9 million of them self-deporting.

DHS says that illegal border crossings have plunged 93% year-over-year.“I toured the border by air, by boat, and by four wheel drive, three days on the southern border. I didn't see a single illegal alien,” Tom Homan said.

- BDE: Petirah of Mr. Barry Ray Z"L of Chicago a philanthropist and supporter of Torah institutions and Jewish causes. Levaya today in Chicago 11am.

- Thousands will gather tonight for the last night of Chanukah in Kiryas Joel, NY as the Satmar Grand Rebbe Aron lights the 8th #Chanukah #menorah candle at the main Satmar shul in Town of Palm Tree. 

- An Israeli man, Gefen Bitton, remains in a coma after being shot multiple times during the Chanukah terror attack at Bondi Beach. New video footage shows he repeatedly moved toward the attackers, seemingly to draw their fire and help others escape. His actions are now being widely praised as heroic.

- The proposal to relocate many of Monmouth Medical Center’s acute care services  including labor and delivery  from Long Branch to a new facility in Tinton Falls cleared a major regulatory hurdle after the State Health Planning Board voted unanimously to approve the state Department of Health’s recommendation. The new location is 20 minutes closer to Lakewood.

-Giyus: MK Dan Iluz, "Dreaming of voting for a good enlistment law" Demands the establishment of a parliamentary inquiry committee on the Military Advocate General affair, unafraid of threats to eliminate him in the primaries, and regrets that the draft enlistment bill won't bring ultra-Orthodox soldiers to the IDF

- Thousands in Bnei Brak welcome home  yeshiva bochurim after spending time in military prison  for the crime of learning Torah

- Last night at the lighting in Vizhnitz. The freed captive Yosef Chaim Ochana and his father arrived for the hadlaka ceremony with the Rebbe of Vizhnitz, after the Chassidim davened for him day by day until his release.

Israel News Sunday Dec 21

Day 807

- IDF chief, hinting at potential Iran war, says military will strike ‘wherever required'.

Parents of last remaining hostage say they are hoping for a Chanukah miracle to return his body. The return of Ran "Rani" Gvili's body is the final hurdle before phase two of the peace plan between Hamas and Israel can get under way. But Hamas says it does not know where his remains are. His mother vows to finish off Hamas if he is not returned.

- Israel has released six Gaza prisoners through the Kerem Shalom crossing, as Hamas continues to hold the body of the last Israeli hostage.

- The Israel Defense Forces said Saturday evening that troops had killed two Palestinians who attacked forces in separate incidents in the northern West Bank.

- Lebanese sources report casualties in an Israeli UAV attack on a vehicle in the village of Yater in southern Lebanon a short time ago.

- Jared Kushner and Steve Witkoff are drafting a proposal to transform Gaza into a futuristic “smart city” known as Project sunrise. A $112‑billion proposal to rebuild the Gaza Strip into a futuristic, high‑tech coastal metropolis after the war contingent on Hamas disarming.

-Senator Lindsey Graham in Israel: "I came here with a goal - we had many achievements in 2025. I want to make sure that 2026 will be a year of peace and of striking the bad guy. My impression is that Hamas is not disarming, it is rearming. My impression is that they are trying to consolidate their control over Gaza, not give it up. And my impression is that Hezbollah is trying to produce more weapons. This is an unacceptable outcome"