Friday, January 31, 2025

Lakewood Zmanim עש"ק פרשת בא תשפ"ה

           ולְכָל בְּנֵי יִשְׂרָאֵל הָיָה אוֹר בְּמוֹשְׁבֹתָם

Friday, January 31, 2025 / ב׳ שבט תשפ״ה
ערב שבת פרשת בא

Candle lighting 4:57 pm
Shkiah/sunset  5:15 pm

Weather: Friday night °37 Rain 100% up to a inch. Shabbos day hi of °40 clear 

וְאַתָּה אַל תִּירָא עַבְדִּי יַעֲקֹב וְאַל תֵּחַת יִשְׂרָאֵל כִּי הִנְנִי מוֹשִׁיעֲךָ מֵרָחוֹק וְאֶת זַרְעֲךָ מֵאֶרֶץ שִׁבְיָם וְשָׁב יַעֲקֹב וְשָׁקַט וְשַׁאֲנַן וְאֵין מַחֲרִיד

          אין בהם טבע ומנהגו של עולם, הכל בגזרת עליון עד שנאמין בכל דברינו ומקרינו שכולם ניסים רמב''ן סוף 
פר' בא
Sung by Dedi Graucher zL

Friday January 31 News Updates Lakewood

Friday, January 31, 2025 / ב׳ שבט תשפ״ה
ערב שבת פרשת בא

Candle lighting 4:57 pm
Shkiah/sunset  5:15 pm

Weather: today: 49° Chance of rain 90%.
Friday night °37 Rain 100% up to a inch
Shabbos day hi of °40 clear 

Mid winter break elementary boys  schools and girls elementary & high schools off today. 



-Trump Officially Announces 25% Tariffs on Canada and Mexico, and 10% Tariffs on China.

- White House Press Secretary Leavitt confirms that COVID-19 originated from a lab leak in Wuhan, China.


- Mesivta update: At least 2 established mesivtos did not get a 9th grade class for next year as of now due to the chaos. Another new mesivta opening for this coming year wasn't able to put a class together .

- Trump administration orders federal employees to remove pronouns from their email signatures today.

- The Federal Aviation Administration is significantly restricting helicopter traffic in the immediate vicinity of Washington Reagan National Airport, according to an official briefed on the matter.

- The New Jersey Appellate Division has just overturned Jackson Mayor Mike Reina's land swap with Mordechai Eichorn, FAA News has learned.

- Judge denies motion by Lakewood BOE to join in Lang Lawsuit to fix funding formula
The litigation in this matter has ensued for more than a decade. Lakewood Board of Education has never been a party in the administrative proceedings in the first appeal before this court. The briefing has been completed for five months and the case is awaiting an oral argument date. The addition of a party at this late date will cause further delay in concluding these protracted proceedings. In addition, petitioner represents the interests of the children (and their parents) who attend the Lakewood schools. See Rules 4:33-1 and -2
see: Here

- Mid  winter ice skating for boys  and girls friday 10:30 - 11:45 $35 pp proceeds to TAG
Winding River Ice ring 1211 Whitseville rd Toms River  2 separate rinks.

- Hachtara for Rav Eliyohu Meir Keller rav Glen Arden Howell this sunday night at TBY Lakewood off Oak st.

-The Blackhawk helicopter was flying too high, by a lot. It was far above the 200 foot limit. That’s not really too complicated to understand, is it??? Donald Trump Truth Social Post 08:14 AM

-Monmouth and Ocean County towns reached a deadline Friday to opt into a program that spells out their affordable housing obligations for the next decade. about two-thirds of towns at the Shore had agreed to participate, even as some planned to challenge the number of affordable units determined by the New Jersey Department of Community Affairs.

- Lakewood school district may run out of Money by Feb 22 in state does not provide loan of $104 million. Busing will shut down including LSTA busing to yeshivos. The only thing that could help us is winning the lottery like someone did in Jackson yesterday,” Inzelbuch told the board last week,. “We are not making light of it. 

- Jersey shore hospital will drop Horizon insurance if theres no deal by June.1 2025 including all hospitals affiliated with meridian network 

- Somerset Development has purchased the Commvault building in Tinton Falls and will bring it under its Bell Works brand, with plans to turn it into an engaging place where the community can work, play and gather.
Commvault's headquarters in Tinton Falls, a 276,900-square-foot building off Hope Road, is a centerpiece in the redevelopment of the former Fort Monmouth. 

Yom Tefilah and Taanis in London

Bais din Hisachdus Kehilas Charedim of London, Gaavad Rav Padawa shlita  and Raavad Dayan Dunner shlita calls for A yom tefilah and fast day until chatzos, this coming Sunday due to the gezeiras chinuch by the UK Govt that endangers the future of chinuch in the UK. Regulations from the Department of Education are making it nearly impossible for chareidi mosdos to operate and be mechanech their students properly. Several rabbonim from the US signed on to the letter implying that this gezeira pertains to those in America too as it will make its way to our shores. Men 18 and above are asked to fast until chatzos and be mekabel taanis shabbos by Mincha.




Israel At War Fri Jab 31

 Israel at war day 483

- The list of hostages to be released tomorrow received today from Hamas by the mediators Qatar and Egypt includes:

- Yarden Bibas (35).
- Ofer Calderon (54).
- Keith Siegel (65).

Bibas wife, Shiri and 2 kids are still in Gaza, no word on their condition.

- IDF fired at Hezbollah positions that posed an immediate threat to the Israeli homefront.

- WSJ: Israel has filed complaints with the Lebanon Ceasefire Implementation Committee that Iranian diplomats are transferring tens of millions of dollars in cash to Hezbollah in suitcases. The money intended for the rehabilitation of the terrorist organization is transferred on direct flights between Tehran and Beirut. In addition, Israel has complained that Turkish citizens are also transferring cash to Hezbollah on flights from Istanbul to Beirut

- Parents of freed IDF soldier Agam Berger to Trump: ‘Thank you for making us all do the right thing’. 
Meirav Berger, the mother 
“Thank you to the creator of the world, to the nation of Israel and the Jewish world, to those who stood with us and wrapped us in endless love and overturned every rock to bring our Agam home to us,” she says.
Agam’s father, Shlomi Berger, thanks US President Donald Trump in English:
“Thank you, thank you for your care and for making us all do the right thing,” “We will never forget your help, your generosity and your leadership, God bless the United States of America.”

- Egyptians gather at Rafah Border Crossing to protest Trump’s proposal to relocate Gazans

- US Secretary of State Rubio layout the Trump ME: “As long as there is an organization called Hams whose goal is the destruction of the Jewish state and is prepared to commit atrocities against civilians and hold hostages for a year and a half, it is a threat to the national security of the State of Israel. What country can live alongside an armed enemy who is prepared to commit atrocities?"



Thursday, January 30, 2025

Oif Simchas Thursday 2 Shevat

Chasunas:
Hilldeshaim - Goldhirsch  Ne'emas Hachaim
Stein - Greenwald Fountain Ballroom
Freilich -  Beer Bais Faiga

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

Mid-Winter Break or Yeshiva Week

 Midwinter vacation in the yeshiva world community has always been referred to as, you guessed it midwinter break, Yeshiva Week was not in the vernacular of the Torah community. Yeshiva bochurim had an off shabbos and the girls had midwinter vacation. Recently,  the Yeshiva week term has been adopted in describing the 2 week vacation period from mid - end of January. Advertisements and news articles have been referencing yeshiva week for  the midwinter getaways to South Florida, skiing trips or other destinations.

The term Yeshiva Week is actually not new at all, it has been around  for 30 -40 years among the Jewish day school and Modern Orthodox communities. Not too long ago, when it came to winter vacation, Jewish day schools were on the same schedule as other public and private schools across the country. Vacation time was determined by the xmas and New Year calendar at the end of December and continued until some time after New Year. As the Jewish day school education system grew, schools have changed the calendars to have vacation towards the middle-to-end of January. As a way to differentiate it from xmas week it was called yeshiva week.

Call it what you want but the mid winter vacation has taken on a life of its own with must do getaways. Perhaps the "yeshiva week" vacation has influenced the yeshivish mid winter vacation to go over the top leaving parents with no choice but to plan a trip and go away. Staying home is not an option and parents have to take off from work. Instead of a relaxing weekend at home it has become a chol hamoed in the winter. There's been some push back from schools but the trend is pulling the other way.

Thursday January 30 ר"ח שבט News Updates Lakewood

Weather: 40° sunny to partly cloudy.
Rosh chodesh Shevat 5785

- A yom Tefilah and fast day has been called by the bais din in London in light of the gezeiras hachinuch that is a threat tov the frum community. A letter signed by a cross section of kehilos called it for this coming Sunday.

- NYT:  A preliminary FAA report reveals Ronald Reagan National Airport’s control tower was understaffed at the time of the midair collision. One controller was handling both helicopters and runway traffic—duties usually split between 2 people. All 67 aboard the commuter plane and military helicopter perished. Recovery teams have retrieved 28 bodies so far.

- Shas party backed down from a threat to bring down the government unless it passes a bill exempting yeshiva students from military service, with faction chair Aryeh Deri reportedly conveying a message to the coalition that his ultimatum to Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu the previous day was a “slip of the tongue.”  

- The Trump administration is considering a move to halt New York City’s congestion pricing program, two people with knowledge of the matter, tell the New York Times.
According to the report, the Department of Transportation is considering withdrawing their authorization that the tolling plan received from the Biden administration last year.

Agudah issues a  short lukewarm statement in response to president Trump Executive order combating anti semitism on campus, there was no official  statement but only a tweet without mentioning president Trump by name only referring to the Potus twitter handle, 
"Agudath Israel of America welcomes @POTUS  ’s decisive action to address the alarming rise of antisemitism on college campuses and in public spaces across the country. The executive order, aimed at protecting Jewish students and ensuring that universities uphold their legal responsibility to provide a safe learning environment, is a necessary and urgent step in the wake of escalating hostility against Jewish communities since October 7, 2023".
There's been no statements on any of the policies regarding Israel like releasing the arms embargo etc..   in contrast Agudah issued many statements on the previous Biden administration specifically on combating anti semitism such as when Dr. Deborah Lipstadt  was chosen as the State Department’s Special Envoy to Monitor and Combat Antisemitism " Agudath Israel of America applauds Senate confirmation of Dr. Deborah Lipstadt as the State Department’s Special Envoy to Monitor and Combat Antisemitism, an ambassador-level position. Agudath Israel endorsed President Biden’s pick for Special Envoy early on" .

- Tractor trailer MVA RT 88 and Clifton Ave with downed traffic light and pole. Expect delays. Avoid the area.

- Mid winter break begins later today

- NJ State troopers in Lakewood Howell with traffic enforcement along Rt 9 near County line


- President Trump has announced that there were no survivors in the collision of a passenger plane and a military helicopter near Washington DC Airport. Trump described the incident as "a dark and harrowing night in the history of our capital and our nation" and asked for a moment of silence. The president noted that efforts have shifted to a mission to recover bodies.

- President Trump rips Obama and Biden for hiring unqualified FAA employees during press conference on DC plane crash "I put safety first ... they put politics at a level that nobody has ever seen. Because this was the lowest level," he said.

- Kash Patel confirmation hearings get underway today in the senate 

- Ami magazine covers the mesivta crisis in Lakewood "Chaos in Lakewood over mesivta applications" 

At least 14 members of US Figure Skating team were on American Airlines flight that crashed in DC

Nj advanced media reports in Lakewood school funding crisis. In the predominantly Orthodox Jewish community, all but 6,000 of the district’s 50,000 students attend private yeshivas, according to the legal proceedings.
About 12% of the district’s $200 million budget in 2023 went to school transportation costs for private students, and the budget is also required to cover their special education costs. 
Overall, the Lakewood district spends more than half of its budget on transportation and special education costs for nonpublic school students, according to the legal proceedings.

- Democrat Candidate Rep. Josh Gottheimer paid a  Visit to Lakewood  at  Schi and meeting with VIP business owners there was no public town halls or outreach to the  general lakewood community.  Republicans Jack Ciattarelli and other republicans who are polling higher in Lakewood may get a Trump endorsement.

- Hackensack Meridian Health has announced it will remove its hospitals from the Horizon network effective June 1, 2025, unless an agreement is reached on pricing. Jersey shore university hospital is part of the meridian network.

- Ami magazine interview with Ben Broffman
Do you think there’s been an uptick in scams in our community, or is history just repeating itself?
I wouldn’t necessarily say that there are more of these cases, but the punishment is more severe than it was years ago. Many years ago, if you committed fraud within the community, you either worked out a payment plan with the victims or they didn’t go to the government because you were a friend or neighbor or because of the issue of mesirah, so people didn’t know about it. Today, these types of things are publicized, so knowledge of them has increased.

- Interview with Eli Fried about basmd real estate investmants in Ani magazine "What percentage of that loss would you say is from Lakewood and its environs?
I don’t know. But Lakewood was probably the epicenter for this cycle."

- BDE: Petirah of Rabbi Yehuda Oelbaum Z"L (R' Julie ) of Boro Park  was principal at Machon Bais Yaakov in boro park and learning director Camp Munk and head of the Aguda shul on 16th avenue.Levaya today at 11:30 am at Shomrei Hadas. 14th Ave BP. Kevura in EY in Bet Shemesh tomorrow 12 pm.

- Trump  statement on airplane crash:
"The airplane was on a perfect and routine line of approach to the airport. The helicopter was going straight at the airplane for an extended period of time. It is a CLEAR NIGHT, the lights on the plane were blazing, why didn’t the helicopter go up or down, or turn. Why didn’t the control tower tell the helicopter what to do instead of asking if they saw the plane. This is a bad situation that looks like it should have been prevented. NOT GOOD!!!"

Segula of Seudas rosh chodesh Shevat




Israel At War Thurs Jan 30

 Israel at war day 482

More freed hostages today

- Trump tells Egypt and Jordan, "They are going to do it to take in Palestinian from Gaza. We are doing a lot for them, and they will do it." 

 - A source involved in the negotiations: "A strong message was conveyed to Hams. Israel has leverage and will use it if necessary. The lack of control and the danger to the lives of the hostages is a blatant violation. We will not accept this. On Saturday, Hams must ensure that it creates a safe corridor for the transfer of the hostages to the Red Cross and from there to the IDF."

- IDF soldier killed in West Bank fighting terrorists in Jenin. Liam Hazi, 20 from Rosh Haayin

- Steve Witkoff  in Israel today he webt to visit the crowd at hostage square, met with Smotritz and was shocked and upset seeing in real time the horrifying footage of the release of the hostages today in Gaza.

- All 8 hostages are back in Israel including 5 Thai workers. There are currently 82 hostages remaining in Gaza 35 have been declared as deceased.

- About 3 hours late: Israel is expected to release the terrorists from prison at 5:00 PM

- Prime Minister Netanyahu: "I watched with great horror the shocking scenes during the release of our hostages. This is further proof of the unimaginable cruelty of the Hams terrorist organization. I demand that the mediators ensure that such terrifying scenes do not occur again and guarantee the safety of our hostages. Whoever dares to harm our 

- Angry mobs of thousands of Gaza terrorists surround hostages as they were transfered from Hamas to red cross  vehicles.

- Hostages Arbel Yehoud, Agam Berger, Gadi Mozes to go free Thursday, along with 5 Thais in exchange for many terrorists including 3 who were responsible for the killing of 45 Israelis in terror attacks 

- Hostage Agam Berger reunites with her parents

- Hostages Arbel Yehoud and Gadi Moses arrived at the pickup point in Gaza

- The hostage pickup point for the red cross is near the destroyed house of Yahya Sinwar; the crowds chant: "We are your people, O Sinwar."

- Hostage Arbel Yehoud has been held alone until today. Today is the first time she has met a fellow hostage since she was taken captive.

- Mossad chief David Barnea reportedly told families of Israeli hostages on Monday evening that the use of bulldozers to clear wreckage in the Gaza Strip could make it impossible to recover some slain captives’ bodies.

Wednesday, January 29, 2025

Oif Simchas Wed Rosh Chodesh Shevat

 ר"ח שבט יעלה ויבוא 
שבט ראשי תיבות שנתבשר בשורות טובות  
Chasunas:
Mendlowitz  - Raitzik Cedar Palace 
Wieder. - Katz Fountain Ballroom 
Furman  - Fenster Kesser Moshe Yehuda 
Neuman  -  Hartstein Ne'emas Hachaim
Blachorsky  - Landau Ateres Chaim Elazar
Alter  -  Weinberg Ateres Reva
Rabinovitch Bais Faiga


Unofficial opening of the "Freezer" which officially opens on Tu Bshvat





Wednesday January 29 News Updates Lakewood

 Weather: 52° Wind increasing. A mix of clouds and sun. Winds could occasionally gust over 40 mph
Erev Rosh chodesh shevat

No survivors found yet, 18 bodies pulled from the Potomac River so far

- Officials confirm the Black Hawk helicopter involved in the Reagan Airport crash was conducting a training flight when it collided with American Airlines Flight 5342.

Rescue operations in the freezing Potomac River continue as authorities search for survivors and piece together what went wrong.
_NBC, CNN_

- President Donald Trump has been briefed on the tragic accident and he's given a brief statement; 

"I have been fully briefed on the terrible accident which just took place at Reagan National Airport. May God bless their souls. Thank you for the incrediblework being done by our first responders."

- Plane and Helicopter Collision at Reagan National Airport in Washington DC
Reports of at least four survivors rescued from the water.

Fox News Host Sean Hannity just reported, citing a congressman, that over 60 passengers are dead as a result of the plane crash incident near Washington 

American Airlines Flight 5342 collided with a Black Hawk helicopter near D.C. airport, FAA says 60 passengers on board 

A tragic incident occurred at Reagan National Airport when a plane reportedly collided with a helicopter near the Potomac River. Emergency services have launched a significant search and rescue operation following reports of fatalities. The authorities are currently investigating the collision, with details still emerging.b
American Airlines flight from Witchita, Kansas

- Giyus: shas and Agudah threatened to bring down coalition if giyus law not passed.
Smotritz says he will move ahead with draft notices 
IDF will send out 14,000 draft notices to yeshiva bochurim with sanctions looming.

- WH  Statement: “Jewish students have faced an unrelenting barrage of discrimination; denial of access to campus common areas and facilities, including libraries and classrooms; and intimidation, harassment, and physical threats and assault.”
“This failure is unacceptable and
ends today. “It shall be the policy of the United States to combat anti-Semitism vigorously, using all available and appropriate legal tools, to prosecute, remove, or otherwise hold to account the perpetrators of unlawful anti-Semitic harassment and violence.”

Agudath Israel of America is applauding senators for once again leading the effort to enact a federal scholarship tax credit program. The Educational Choice for Children Act unveiled today as part of National School Choice Week will provide ten billion dollars’ worth of tax credits each year to individual and corporate taxpayers to support K-12 educational expenses including private school tuition. The proposed bill, which Agudath Israel helped craft with the sponsors and coalition partners, would allow a dollar-for-dollar federal tax credit up to ten percent of an individual taxpayer’s adjusted gross income (AGI) or $5,000 (whichever is higher) and up to five percent of a corporation’s taxable income for contributions made to a Scholarship Granting Organization (SGO). The SGO would then provide scholarships to children of eligible families for approved educational expenses. Scholarship eligibility is extended to families earning 300% of the median income in that area (see chart), which means a very large percentage of the families in our community will be able to benefit from the program.

- Flu cases still raging across the area

- Trump responds to federal reserve keeping interest rates
 "Because Jay Powell and the Fed failed to stop the problem they created with Inflation, I will do it by unleashing American Energy production, slashing Regulation, rebalancing International Trade, and reigniting American Manufacturing, but I will do much more than stopping Inflation, I will make our Country financially, and otherwise, powerful again! The Fed has done a terrible job on Bank Regulation. Treasury is going to lead the effort to cut unnecessary Regulation, and will unleash lending for all American people and businesses. If the Fed had spent less time on DEI, gender ideology, “green” energy, and fake climate change, Inflation would never have been a problem. Instead, we suffered from the worst Inflation in the History of our Country!"

- The Federal Reserve holds interest rates steady, defying pressure from Pres. Trump to lower them.

- Former Democratic Senator Bob Menendez sentenced to 11 years in prison for corruption charges, judge tells him "You were successful, powerful, you stood at the apex of our political system. ...Somewhere along the way, and I don’t know when it was, you lost your way and working for the public good became working for your good.”

- TRUMP: I am restating right now - the media has purposefully created confusion... Social Security, Medicaid, Medicare have not been impacted by any action we have taken in any way, shape or form. We have stopped $50M ..for  Hamas. We stopped an attempt to pay for illegal alien resettlement. We canceled $181M in DEI training contracts. $45M for diversity scholarships in Burma.

- Trump to sign executive order setting up 30,000-person illegal alien facility in Guantanamo Bay.
 “This will double our capacity immediately. And it's a tough place to escape. This brings us 1 step further to eliminating the scourge of migrant crime in communities. Now, we need funding from Congress to remove record numbers of illegal aliens...killers, criminals at levels nobody has ever seen before.”

- President Trump: "If they're working for the federal government, they must show up to the office on time and on schedule...If they don‘t agree by February 6th to show up back to work in their office, they will be terminated."



- Drones in NJ: The explanation  by Trump did not clarify what research was being performed in many cases near military bases  or detail what “other reasons” were at play (NJ)

- LPD Alert: Lakewood PD phones are down due to a planned outage. We are working on restoring services as soon as possible. If you have an emergency, dial 911

- Paroh in pajamas day for Lakewood playgroups kinderlach as they sing Paroh in pajamas in the middle of 

- President Donald Trump today will sign the Laken Riley Act into law as his administration’s first piece of legislation.

- Trump to sign executive order directing federal agencies to combat antisemitism, which may include deporting anti-Jewish activists. DOJ to probe pro-Hamas campus intimidation, agencies to report recommendations to White House in 60 days
The order requires the Justice Department to investigate pro-Hamas graffiti and intimidation, including on college campus and calls for the deportation of resident aliens — including students with visas — who broke laws as part of anti-Israel protests following the Oct. 7, 2023, terrorist attacks in Israel.(NYP)

- The Brooklyn restaurant  JOSEPH'S DREAM BURGER is opening a location in Lakewood!
In the former location of D-lux Bistro, in the Gourmet Glatt Plaza.1700 Madison Avenue, Lakewood, NJ, 08701 (GKRF)

- RFK Jr confirmation hearings today in the senate. RFK Jr: “Diabetes is 10x more prevalent. Cancer is rising. Autoimmune diseases, asthma, depression, addiction, other conditions... are all on the rise. The U.S. has worse health than any developed nation, and yet we spend more than everyone else. We can't be a strong nation when are people are so sick. Our children are chronically ill.”

- NYP editorial Senators, vote ‘no’ on RFK Jr. — who’s still a ‘radical left lunatic’ hazardous to our health

- Two of Senator Menendez's co-defendants,were  sentenced this morning  to seven years in prison. Menendez will be sentenced later today 

- South Jersey Dennis Township school district would no longer pay for courtesy busing service, to save money  Subscription busing might be available to roughly 110 students who live within 2 miles of their school and use courtesy busing, It will cost families $962.50 per student, per year. Students who qualify for free or reduced meals will be offered a reduced rate.

- Updated:  Lakewood BOE Candidate Eli Eisenbach,  who had run in the November election, receiving the most votes, 9,668, among those who did not win applied for the vacant seat  and plans to serve on the BOE He is very much look forward to serving along with the other wonderful board members to make Lakewood School's Great Again.

 APP reported The board did not accept his application and extended the deadline for a new applicant to Feb 13.  He said he is still interested in serving and wondered why they did not choose him. APP reports.
“I had the most votes of the rest,” said Eisenbach,“My ultimate goal is to bring my expertise to the school board and make Lakewood a better place.”

The pay-to-play situation in Jackson Township more at faa 

- Reuters: "Australian police said they had foiled an attack against the Jewish community in New South Wales. Police said they had found a trailer packed with explosives that was intended to be used in the attack. Local police said they have removed any suspicion of additional explosives in the area.

- Judge urged the Lakewood Police Department to settle a massive lawsuit which reveals violations of the Fourth and Fourteenth Amendments by Detectives  more  

Minyanim Mincha Yom Kippur Koton Erev Rosh Chodesh Shevat 5785 Lakewood

 Zmanim of Minyanim for Mincha and Yom Kippur Koton ערב ראש חודש שבט  תשפ"ה
 Rosh Chodesh Shevat is Thursday 

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

Israel At War Wed Jan 29

 Israel at war day 481

- Israel is asking to finally receive definitive and official information about the fate of Shiri Bibas, who was kidnapped on October 7 with her children Ariel and Kafir. As a result, a firm message on the subject was delivered to the terrorist organization Hams. 

- Five Thai hostages will also be released tomorrow from Hams captivity. They were taken on 10/7

- Sky News:Trump envoy Steve Witkoff met in Saudi Arabia with the PLO Secretary General and told him that the US administration wants the Palestinian Authority to return to running the Gaza Strip

- Egyptian President El-Sisi responds to US President Trump's proposal: "Displacing Palestinians is an injustice; we will not be a part of it.”

- Hamas is expected to notify Israel today about a third hostage set to be released from Gaza tomorrow, alongside civilian Arbel Yehoud and soldier Agam Berger. Reports indicate that 65-year-old U.S. citizen Keith Siegel may also be freed this week, though there is no official confirmation yet. It remains uncertain whether his release will take place tomorrow or on Shabbos, when three additional hostages are scheduled to be freed.

- Netanyahu will leave for Washington on Sunday, meet with President Trump on Tuesday, and is expected to return to Israel on Thursday: "Schedule still subject to change

- More than $2 billion in US taxpayer money was funneled by the Biden administration to UNRWA, much of which ultimately ended up in Hamas’s hands—directly funding the atrocities of October 7th and beyond. Report 

- Ex-hostage says Liri Albag saved her life as Hamas captors tortured, threatened her
Amit Soussana, released in 2023, credits intervention of hostage freed Saturday; Naama Levy, Romi Gonen share beginnings of recovery, urge release of remaining captives

- IDF last night thwarted the smuggling of 13 weapons and ammunition via drone at the Egyptian border. The drone was shot down, and the guns were seized by forces from the Caracal Battalion.

- Report in the Qatari newspaper Al-Arabi Al-Jadeed: Trump's Middle East envoy Steve Witkoff pledged during his meeting with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, before the

Tuesday, January 28, 2025

Financial Education Event

Financial Education Event Held last week in Lakewood

Oif Simchas Tuesday 29 Teves

Chasunas:
Lebovitz -  Holtz Neemas Hachaim
Rochworger - Weinberger Ateres Chaim Elazar
Scheinerman  - Berger Kesser Moshe Yehuda

Tuesday January 28 News Updates Lakewood

Weather: 43° Mostly cloudy skies. High Winds could occasionally gust over 40 mph.
Intense snow squalls possible on blustery Tuesday in Northern New Jersey


- BREAKING: President Trump is expected to sign an executive order to prioritize federal funding for school choice programs, documents show.

- White House says incoming Trump Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins is working on addressing the egg shortage (but must be confirmed before taking action), slams Biden admin for ordering a "mass killing" of 100M chickens

- Simcha in the Torah world with the publication of sefer  מנחת אליהו on מסכת עירובין by Rav Eliyahu Yagid shlita R"Y Mesivta Keren HaTorah of Lakewood 

Trump: Congratulations to Tennessee Legislators who are working hard to pass School Choice this week, which I totally support. We will very soon be sending Education BACK TO THE STATES, where it belongs. It is our goal to bring Education in the United States to the highest level, one that it has never attained before. MAKE AMERICA GREAT AGAIN!

- Federal judge temporarily blocks Trump's freeze on federal spending, minutes before action was to take effect.

- Tonight  BMG Beseder program on finance and budgeting  with Rabbi Ari Marburger Mr. Gevalia KitKat, Mr. Eli Fried 8:45pm at TBY 613 Oak st. open to Avreichei Kollel and their wives.

-- NY AG Letitia James sues the Trump administration after freeze on federal funding.

- DOJ buildup in Washington DC evacuated,ni reason given

- Reporter attempts to place egg price blame on Trump, but Karoline Leavitt fires back:
“When Joe Biden was in the Oval Office or upstairs sleeping.. I'm not so sure.. egg prices increased 65 percent.”

-- The White House is aware of the Medicaid website portal outage. We have confirmed no payments have been affected — they are still being processed and sent. We expect the portal will be back online shortly.

-WH press secretary clarifies the Pause on Govt grants. Press Sec. Leavitt denies that the Trump admin. created confusion with memo directing a pause in federal grants and loans, saying it’s not a “blanket” pause: “Individual assistance, Social Security, Medicare, food stamps…will not be impacted."

- Trump: N.J. mystery drones were authorized by FAA, ‘not the enemy’
The NJ drone mystery is finally revealed.
Before taking questions at her first news briefing, White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt announced she had an update on the drones to relay “directly” from President Donald Trump.
Press Secretary Leavitt: “The drones seen flying over New Jersey were given the green light by the FAA for what they call "research and various other purposes. Many of these drones were [operated by] hobbyists, recreational and private individuals that enjoy flying drones. This was not the enemy.”

- Jake Turx now. Reporter  working for Mishpacha magazine was called on to ask a question by the WH press secretary. He asked If thr Trump administration will investigate the Biden administration for removing the Houthis as a terrorist  organization something that Trump reversed. She said it's a good point.

- Fox news: WH official: The memo exempts any program that provides direct benefits to Americans from the review process. That includes Social Security, Medicare and the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), the official said.

- Update: Press Sec. Leavitt denies that the Trump admin. created confusion with memo directing a pause in federal grants and loans, saying it’s not a “blanket” pause: “Individual assistance, Social Security, Medicare, food stamps…will not be impacted."

- Update:  In a statement Tuesday, the Department of Education noted that federal Pell Grants and Direct Loans to students are also not impacted by the Vaeth memo.
A footnote in the memo says  that “Nothing in this memo should be construed to impact Medicare or Social Security benefits.”

Programs subject to the pause include Section 8 rental assistance, Temporary Assistance for Needy Families, the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants and Children and more.

- Chuck Schumer Dem minority leader said “Donald Trump’s Administration is jeopardizing billions upon billions of community grants and financial support that help millions of people across the country,”  “It will mean missed payrolls and rent payments and everything in between: chaos for everything from universities to nonprofit charities.”

 The White House ordered a temporary freeze on federal assistance programs, including Medicaid, WIC, SNAP, housing aid and education grants to align with Trump's executive orders. The pause starts at 5pm today, with more details expected soon. (Kol Haolam)

-Trump pauses federal loans and grants, putting trillions at risk: ‘Waste of taxpayer dollars President Trump’s budget team ordered a temporary pause on “all federal financial assistance” besides Social Security, Medicare and other select programs pending a review — putting trillions of taxpayer dollars in an indefinite deep freeze.

- The White House press secretary will hold the first press briefing of the Trump administration today at 1 p.m. ET.

- Wawa location closing  in Lakewood at E. County line and Squankum rd. The store will officially close on February 16.

- The cost of illegals in NJ  is $5.3 billion of taz payer money that goes towards for  food stamps, welfare, housing subsidies, free telephones, educating their children, jam packed emergency rooms that don't get paid for

- Has there been any ICE raids at the jersey shore? If you believe social media, yes, but nothing has been confirmed. Despite reports of raids, including one in Neptune, but so far nothing has been confirmed and no arrests have been reported. (App)

- Lakewood based Hispanic facebbook group calling for all workers not to show up for work
On February 10 and 11 to show how vital they are to society.

- Public health experts warn a “quad-demic” — a contagious combination of COVID-19, influenza, RSV and norovirus — has increased pressure on New Jersey hospitals this winter. Emergency department visits and hospital admissions remain elevated for COVID-19, influenza, and RSV, according to the state’s latest respiratory illness surveillance report.

Giyus Update: Outgoing Army chief Herzi Hakevy defends sanctions as a use to draft charedim to the IDF.

Rav Yehoshua Eichenstein shlita R"Y says he will fight for every bochur that gets drafted.

- Protests today in Yerushalayim at Binyanei Hauma as IDF event  celebrates 25 years of charedi tracks in the army

- Congresswoman Anna Paulina Luna Proposes Adding Trump to Mount Rushmore
Representative Anna Paulina Luna (R-FL) has announced her intention to draft legislation proposing the addition of President Donald Trump’s face to Mount Rushmore. Luna’s initiative has sparked debate over the potential expansion of the historic monument, which currently features Presidents Washington, Jefferson, Lincoln, and Theodore Roosevelt.

- Monmouth Medical Center Southern Campus in Lakewood has been awarded Geriatric Emergency Department Accreditation (GEDA) from the American College of Emergency Physicians (ACEP). This accreditation program is an ACEP-governed national accreditation program dedicating to improving the emergency department care of adults 65 and older.

- A new court ruling says elected officials private emails are public records faa 

- Mesivta farher commentary from LNN
The fallout has been significant. Elementary schools often delay starting the review process until closer to Tu BiShvat. This year, however, students were rushed into farhers without adequate preparation “Most elementary schools hadn’t even started the chazarah program yet,” the source explained. “Now, boys are attending farhers without proper preparation, which is a big problem.”
Adding to the quagmire, some mesivtas pressured parents for immediate decisions. Families were forced to commit to one school while waiting for answers from another, leaving many to face major dilemmas and broken promises.

Israel At War Tues Jan 28

Israel at war day 480 

- Israeli ambassador to the UN Danny Danon officially notified members of the Security Council that within 48 hours the State of Israel will end its cooperation with UNRWA. UNRWA must cease its activities in Israel and evacuate all of its facilities in Jerusalem

- Trump invites Netanyahu to white house  nextvl week as first foreign leader to visit. Netanyahu will come to the US on Tuesday Feb 4.

- The US President's Middle East envoy, Steve Witkoff, will visit the Gaza and Kerem Shalom crossing tomorrow. In the afternoon, he will meet with the Prime Minister Netanyahu, the Minister of Defense Katz, and Minister Dermer

- Family members of several hostages who are set to be released from Gaza in the coming weeks expressed dread over their loved ones’ fates on Tuesday after Hamas conveyed information saying that eight of those 33 hostages are dead.  IDF told them loved ones may be dead

- The D9 bulldozers that Biden halted from Israel have arrived. IDF soldiers died in Lebanon due to not having the D9 in battle and had to enter booby trapped buildings according to generals during the war.

- Trump was asked if Egyptian President al-Sisi would agree to take in refugees from Gaza and said, "I would love to do it; I wish he would take some of them. We helped them a lot, and I'm sure he will help us. He's a friend of mine. He's in a tough neighborhood in a very tough part of the world. But I think he'll do it, and the King of Jordan will do it too."

- Israel Defense Minister Katz at Syrian Mount Hermon: “The IDF will remain on the summit of the Syrian Mount Hermon and in the security zone indefinitely to ensure the security of the Golan Heights and northern communities and all residents of the State of Israel.  We will not allow hostile forces to establish themselves in the security zone in southern Syria - from here to the Sweida-Damascus axis, and we will act against any threat.”

- UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres: "500 Palestinian children are missing throughout the Gaza Strip. I ask that Israel help from the air and on the ground to find them

- An Israeli official involved in the process is hinting that Israel intends to return to fighting in Gaza when the agreement to release the hostages is exhausted. "We are committed to all the goals of the war.

- Trump plan to relocate palestinians from Gaza: “When you look at the Gaza Strip, it’s been hell for so many years,” Trump said. “There have been various civilizations on that strip. It didn’t start here. It started thousands of years before, and there’s always been violence associated with it. You could get people living in areas that are a lot safer and maybe a lot better and maybe a lot more comfortable.”

Monday, January 27, 2025

Oif Simchas Monday 28 Teves

Chasunas:
Monk - Medresh N'eemas Hachaim 
Weiss - Schickler Kesser Moshe Yehuda 
Friedman  -  Friedman Fountain Ballroom 
Gidanian  -  Inzelbuch Ateres Chaim Elazar

Monday January 27 News Updates Lakewood

Weather:  hi42°

-  Trump: The United States Military just entered the Great State of California and, under Emergency Powers, TURNED ON THE WATER flowing abundantly from the Pacific Northwest, and beyond. The days of putting a Fake Environmental argument, over the PEOPLE, are OVER. Enjoy the water, California!!!

- Trump: “We are going to be placing Tariffs on computer chips. semi-conductors, and pharmaceuticals - to return the production of these essential goods to the United States of America.”

- Belzer rebbe grandson attends a lchaim at the new ice cream house in Lakewood ahead of the opening soon.

- The CDC has ordered all public health officials in the US to stop working with the WHO, effective immediately.

- BDE: Petirah of Rabbi Shlomo Isaacson ZTL Ravd of Khal Bais Dovid in Passaic, President of KOA Kashrus from Passaic , NJ father of R' Levy and R'Issamar of Lakewood Levaya 5pm at his shul Khal Bais Dovid 72 Ascension st Passaic, NJ Kevurah in Floral Park cemetery Deans, NJ. His brother from Philadelphia was nifter 3 weeks ago.

Meaivta Farher update: Some isldeas floating to not have mesivtos reach out directly to parents and all communication should be with the rebbeim who will not allow farhers to start  before an agreed date.

America’s new Secretary of Defense, Pete Hegseth: "There is no reason why the miracle of the reestablishment of the temple on the Temple Mount is not possible."

- Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum: Since Trump's inauguration, we have taken in 4,000 immigrants deported from the US, most of them Mexicans

- Paramus Borough Mayor Chris DiPiazza says the town is exploring a lawsuit against the American Dream mall, after learning that retail shops are open for business on Sundays in defiance of Bergen County's Blue Laws. The law, which dates back to the 17th century, prohibits the sale of nonessential items such as furniture, appliances and clothing on Sundays.(SSchorr)

- A Toms River restaurant has come under fire after adding a “Proud Boys Burger” to its menu, sparking outrage and leading to an apology from the owner, who said she was unaware of the far-right group’s association with hate and extremism.

- Mercer County Superior Court Judge Robert Lougy has rejected a second attempt by more than two dozen New Jersey municipalities to pause implementation of the state's affordable housing mandate.The state's 564 municipalities now have until Friday to either accept their  new housing obligation numbers, or provide an alternative calculation.

- Jackson Fire District #3 Budget Referendum: asking for a increase of 500k  polls open Feb 15

-CNN Report: President Trump will sign an executive order authorizing the development of a new generation of missile defense systems. The order will include the creation of an "Iron Dome" system for the US

- Protesters sprayed antisemitic graffiti on the sidewalk outside a synagogue in South Orange on Sunday morning, officials said.

- LPD: Today, we honor the memory of the millions of lives lost during the Holocaust and pay tribute to the survivors whose resilience continues to inspire. On this anniversary of the liberation of Auschwitz-Birkenau, let us reaffirm our commitment to combating hatred and ensuring such atrocities are never repeated.

Videos posted on social  media of people walking over the frozen Lakewood lake carasaljo. The cold snap is done and Temps are warming up

- Shares in major US technology firms have plunged after the rapid rise of a low-cost chatbot built by a Chinese artificial intelligence (AI) firm. The DeepSeek app, which was launched last week, has overtaken rivals including OpenAI's ChatGPT to become the most downloaded free app in the US.

- A 4.1-magnitude earthquake occurred off the U.S. East Coast, with reports of shaking felt in Massachusetts, New Hampshire, and Maine.*
Estreia reopens with new Mediterranean style cuisine located at river 978

- Egg prices hit a new record the first week Trump was in office. Don’t expect them to drop in 2025

App reports on the petirah Rabbi Moshe OBM head shaliach in Morristown chabad yeshiva. Herson, a pivotal figure in the growth of Jewish faith across New Jersey and a founder of the Rabbinical College of America in Morris County, was remembered by friends and state leaders after his death on Wednesday. The rabbi was 90. The longtime director of state operations for Chabad-Lubavitch, a global Orthodox Jewish movement, Herson is credited with a lead role in establishing the Rabbinical College in Morris Township. He also oversaw the growth of Chabad centers throughout the Garden State Rabbi Herson helped establish over 70 synagogues and Jewish centers across New Jersey, built the Rabbinical College of America into one of the world’s leading rabbinic institutions, and ordained scores of rabbis who’ve gone on to serve Jewish communities around the globe," said Jacob Scheer, a Chabad spokesman.

The Vizhnitz Lakewood Yerushalayim rebbe visits the Satmar Rebbe in Palm Springs,CA




Israel At War Monday Jan 27

Israel At war day 479

The Trump administration is discussing with the Albanian government the potential relocation of up to 100,000 Gazans to Albania.

- Hezbollah's new General Secretary Naim Kasem admits in his speech today: “We did not expect to lose so many senior figures, including Nasrallah, so quickly and on such a large scale. (Israel’s) intelligence exposed us. We are currently conducting an investigation to understand what happened. It was a surprising and unusual thing.”

-Israel confirms the list provided by Hams. Eight out of the 26 remaining hostages still in the first phase of the hostage deal are dead.

- Freed hostage Liri Elbag's father in an interview: “Liri told me, 'Dad, there are two million terrorists there, make no mistake. I sat with 8- and 4-year-old children who were cursing the Jews.'"(Amit Segal)

- Hamas says the remaining hostages freed in the first phase includes 18 that are alive and 8 bodies. Some of the families of the hostages slated to be released in the ongoing first phase of the hostage deal have been informed that there is concern for their loved ones’ wellbeing, after Hamas provided Israel with information on the status of the hostages late last night.

- Agam Berger, 3rd hostage to be freed Thursday; 3 more on Saturday

- Gazans are going back to the north of the strip

- Hezbollah is not defeated and it is re-emerging from its hideouts. (Jpost)

- US Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth spoke with Prime Minister Netanyahu, stressing that the US is fully committed to ensuring that Israel has the capabilities it needs to defend itself
- The commander of the military wing of Hams in Tulkarm, Ihab Abu Atiwa, was killed in a airstrike.

- A peivate company American force is inspecting Gazans returning by cars to the northern Strip

Sunday, January 26, 2025

Oif Simchas Events Sunday 27 Teves

Chasuna:
Hirth - Friedman Ateres Chaim Elazar

- Parlor meeting yeshiva Mehalech HaTorah Rav Moshe Yehuda Lederer R"Y at 580 Seron Circle 

- Parlor meeting on behalf of yeshiva gedolah Dover TzedekRav Yaakov Schonblum R"Y at Williams st shulb60 Williams st.

- Hatzolah of central Jersey Parlor meeting event for the Pine Lake Park community of Manchester at the Clarion hotel in Toms River Rt 37.

Sunday January 26 News Updates Lakewood

Weather:  41° Mostly sunny
mid winter break weather from Thursday to Monday will be from the low 40's to a high of 51 on Monday.

- Farher record: in 10 hours mostvkids got into mesivta,in a system that would to take 2 weeks.
Many shocked and upset about what transpired taking a toll on parents and the kids. Chadorim are adamant that there will be accountability for the collapse.

- Lakewood school district posts information to parents from the ACLU

What To Do If You’re Approached by Immigration Officials in New Jersey?
Remain calm. Do not run. 
If you’re stopped by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), ask them “Am 
I free to leave?” If you are, calmly walk away. 
Ask agents to show you their badges. ICE agents sometimes wear uniforms that say "Police" even though they are not police officers; it is important to confirm what agency officers work for. 
You have the right to remain silent, even if the officer has a warrant. Anything you 
say – including sharing the country in which you were born, your immigration status, or 
your criminal history – can be used against you. 
Do not physically resist or reach for your belongings without permission, even if 
you think ICE officials are acting unfairly or unlawfully. You have the right to say no to searches of your car, house..

-Colombia’s President backs down, offers to send presidential plane to repatriate deportees from U.S. after Trump sanctions threat — 
-Trump Says United States is Imposing Travel Ban, Visa Revocations on Colombian Government Officials After Colombia Said It Will Not Accept U.S. Deportation Flights

- Vice President JD Vance: “Just because we were founded by immigrants doesn't mean 240 years later, we should have the dumbest immigration policy in the world.”

- Man with the truck in Lakewood today at Westgate simcha hall 3:30 pm - 8:30 pm

- Busy day at all Lakewood mesivtos today due to the collapse of the acceptance system.  Yeshivos scrambling as Boys are coming since 8am for their farher/interviews  that was originally scheduled to start 2 weeks from now.

- Giyus protests taking place 4 days this week as IDF ramps up rhetoric to Crack down on yeshivos and individuals hitting them with sanctions and fines. The impending giyus law is stuck in committee and has slim chance of passing.

- Eggs at Trader Joe's LG $3.49 XLg $3.99

- Bill Ackman republican activist responds to the news of making Jews a minority: Federal funding programs should be reserved only for those that are socioeconomically disadvantaged. They should not be allocated based on ethnicity, religious itdentity, and/or skin color.

- Commerce Department Set to Recognize Jewish Businesses as Minority, With Potentially Historic Repercussion. Orthodox Jewish Chamber of Commerce is set to sign a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the U.S. Government and the Department of Commerce.
For the first time in history, Jewish businesses will be formally recognized as a minority group, potentially opening up access to a wealth of resources and support through the Minority Business Development Agency (MBDA). This includes eligibility for billions in government programs, grants, contracts, and subsidized financing, all specifically crafted to bolster the growth and competitive edge of minority-owned businesses. Honig told Newsmax, “While Hispanic and African American populations have long been recognized for these programs, Jewish businesses have yet to receive this acknowledgment despite constituting just 2% of the U.S. population.”

- Despite ICE raids Hospitals in New Jersey won’t be closing their doors to undocumented immigrants seeking healthcare anytime soon, regardless of new federal immigration policies, the president of New Jersey Hospital Association said Friday.

BDE

Petirah of Rav Avrohom  Moshe Altusky ZTL of Lakewood following an illness he was  65. He lived off Park Ave. His father was Rav Zev (Velvel) Altusky zt”l, menahel at Yeshiva Chasan Sofer and a maggid shiur at HILI/HAFTR for decades. Rav Avrohom Moshe was a son-in-law of Rav Shaul Brus zt”l, rosh yeshiva of Yeshiva Bais Hatalmud.

He is a brother to Rav Shlomo Avigdor Altusky Shlita Rosh Yeshiva Far Rickaway, and a son in law of Rav Shaul Brus Zatzal he was a R"M at Rabbi Kanarek Bais Medrash in Lakewood and taught at yeshiva Orchos Chaim. He leaves behind a  ilustrious mishpacha of bnei Torah following in his ways.

The Levaya is  at 12pm today at Yeshivas Noam Hatalmud 1501 Lanes Mill Road, Lakewood, NJ.

Israel At War Sunday Jan 26

 Israel at war day 478

- Hamas hands over list of hostages to be freed in first phase. Sadly there are 18iving and 8 bodies of hostages per reports.

- White House: The ceasefire between Israel and Lebanon will be extended until February 18.

- Saudi  reports: An agreement has been reached regarding the release of the hostage Arbel Yahud. She will be releases on Friday 

 - PM Netanyahu thanks Trump for lifting the arm embargo. "Thank you President Trump for keeping your promise to give Israel the tools it needs to defend itself, fight our common enemies, and ensure a future of peace and prosperity."

- Trump, in a conversation with reporters on Air Force One, proposes settling all Gazans in Arab countries like Jordan and Egypt and completely clearing Gaza. When asked if the Gazans would only be exiled temporarily, he replied that maybe temporarily or permanently

- Netanyahu stands firm on his decision not to allow Gazans to cross north through Netzarim - until the issue of the hostage Arbel Yehud is resolved.

- 15 killed in south Lebanon as IDF fires on suspects trying to break through to villages

A very dangerous situation in Lebanon. IDF Spokesperson: Earlier today, IDF forces operating in the southern Lebanon area conducted dispersal fire to eliminate a threat at several locations where suspects were

BDE: Rav Mendel Belsky ZT"L

 Petirah of Rav Menachem Mendel Yitzchok Halevi Belsky zt”l. former rosh yeshiva of Yeshiva Gedolah of Midwood in Brooklyn, NY. He dedicated over a quarter of a century to teaching, raising, and molding countless talmidim, always carrying himself with great humility and gentility. His impact on his talmidim, and the Torah community at large, was profound.  Rav Mendel lived in the kensington neighborhood of Brooklyn and over the last years moved to Lakewood in westgate

Matzav reports  In his later years, Rav Mendel endured various health challenges and yissurim with tremendous emunah, bitachon, and equanimity. His steadfastness in the face of physical difficulties served as an inspiration to all who knew him. He spent his final years living in Lakewood, in the West Gate neighborhood.

Saturday, January 25, 2025

Motzei Shabbos Vaeira Lakewood News Updates

Weather: low of 27° tomorrow hi 42° overcast

- House Republicans introduce bill to rename Dulles International Airport to Donald J. Trump International Airport.

- Mesivta Farher takana falls apart after several mesivtos started accepting boys before the agreed upon date which is the week of Tu B'shvat. As  a result other mesivtos went into panic mode  fearing they won't get biys and are calling up bochurim to cone down for interviews instead of the traditional farher.

- Long lines at urgent cares and pharmacies as Flu virus rages on mid winter. 

- Bravo Pizza in Toms River open tonight 

- Frozen Lake carasaljo, search and rescue werw on scene Friday night for drill. Officials in Toms River warn residents about  danger of stepping onb frozen lakes and the Toms River as ice is not strong enough and could give wat

- Melava malka annual dinner yeshiva Chemdas HaTorah at 950 Massachusetts 

- Melava malka Parlor meeting Zichron Chana Leah Rabbi Helberg Westgate at 31 Kelmwoods divrei Zikaron on Rav Mattisyahu Solomon by his son in law Rav Moshe Yehuda Halpern 9:15

- Yeshiva Ner Yisroel Baltimore annual Lakewood Alumnai Melava at Estrea hall with the rebbeim

- Melava Malka at Belz Lakewood with grandson of Belzer rebbe

-ICE agents stormed business, blocked exits while making arrests in  Newark N.J.’s largest city. The Mayor said ICE raided business without a warrant, detained U.S. citizens.

- Pete Hegseth was sworn in as President Trump's defense secretary earlier, following a narrow confirmation by the Senate.
Despite opposition from GOP senators, Mitch McConnell, Lisa Murkowski, and Susan Collins, Hegseth was confirmed with a 51-50 vote, with VP Vance casting the tie-breaking vote.

Sinai academy live auction tonight Here Sinaiauction.com

Israel at war Motzei Shabbos Vaeira

 Israel at war day 477

- Trump wants Jordan and Egypt to take Palestinians from Gaza to “clean out Gaza”

He wants to see Egypt, Jordan, and other Arab countries take in more and more refugees from the Gaza Strip "and potentially take enough of the population to clear the war zone and create a clean area." He said he had discussed the issue with Jordan's King Abdullah II and would discuss it with Egyptian President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi. "We're talking about a million and a half people, and we're just clearing the whole area and saying, 'It's over.'"

- Secretery of state Marco Rubio: The United States celebrates the release of four Israeli hostages. It is critical that the ceasefire implementation continues, and we will continue to work to see all the hostages reunited with their families

- 60 day Ceasefire with Hezbollah comes to an end yet IDF still maintains positions in Lebanon due to inability of Lebanese army to secure area

- Four female IDF  soldiers held hostage by Hamas for 477 days — Karina Ariev, Daniella Gilboa, Naama Levy, and Liri Albag — were released by Hamas on Saturday after being paraded through a Gaza City square before being handed over to the Red Cross.
The release marked the second set of hostages to be freed under the current ceasefire-hostage release deal. Israel was later to free 200 Palestinian security prisoners, including dozens serving life sentences for murder and terror.

‪- US President Donald Trump confirms that he has lifted the hold put in place by former president Joe Biden on a shipment of 2,000-pound bombs for Israel. “A lot of things that were ordered and paid for by Israel, but have not been sent by Biden, are on their way!” Trump writes on Truth Social.

- Bibas family: "It's morning 477, yesterday at 16:00 when the names were published, our world collapsed on us, we were hoping to see Shiri and the children on the list. Thank you, dear supporters, for not giving up, continuing to pray".

-In approximately 4 hours, Israel is supposed to have fully withdrawn from Southern Lebanon. However, as discussed yesterday and with the concurrence of the Americans, the IDF will not be withdrawing due to the failure of the Lebanese Army in enforcing the agreement.

-As a result of Hams violating the agreement by not releasing Arbel Yehud today, PM Netanyahu has decided to not allow anyone to return to North Gaza through the Netzarim Corridor. 

- PA President Abbas called to congratulate the released terrorist murderer Yasser Abu Bakr upon his release today as part of the Gaza deal. Abu Bakr was responsible for a 2002 attack in Netanya in which an Israeli citizen and a nine-month-old baby were murdered.


The three hostages released last week revealed that they were kept as domestic slaves for Hamas terrorists.
Three Israeli women released from Hamas captivity last week have shared accounts of their time in Gaza, shedding light on months of physical and psychological torment, according to an N12 news site report.

Friday, January 24, 2025

Lakewood Zmanim עש"ק פרשת וארא מברכים חודש שבט תשפ"ה

Friday, January 24, 2025 /כד' טבת תשפ"ה



ערב שבת פרשת וארא
Candle lighting 4:48 pm
shkia/sunset 5:06 pm

weather: Friday night- Low 12° 
Shabbos day hi 34 Sunny
Rosh chodesh Shevat in Thursday 
Molad: Wednesday, morning 17 minutes and 17 chalakim after 6
כֹּה אָמַר ה׳ אלוקים: בְּקַבְּצִי אֶת בֵּית יִשְׂרָאֵל מִן הָעַמִּים אֲשֶׁר נָפֹצוּ בָם, וְנִקְדַּשְׁתִּי בָם לְעֵינֵי הַגּוֹיִם, וְיָשְׁבוּ עַל
אַדְמָתָם אֲשֶׁר נָתַתִּי לְעַבְדִּי לְיַעֲקֹב
(הפטרת וארא)

כשמברכים חודש שבט נכון לומר  שְׁבָט בקמץ ככתוב בספר בספר זכריה זו פעם היחידה שנזכר שם החודש בתנ׳׳ך" בְּיוֹם עֶשְׂרִים וְאַרְבָּעָה לְעַשְׁתֵּי־עָשָׂר חֹדֶשׁ, הוּא־חֹדֶשׁ שְׁבָט, בִּשְׁנַת שְׁתַּיִם לְדָרְיָוֶשׁ, הָיָה דְבַר־ה'אֶל־זְכַרְיָה בֶּן־בֶּרֶכְיָהוּ בֶּן־עִדּוֹא הַנָּבִיא לֵאמֹר,  

Friday January 24 News Updates Lakewood

Friday, January 24, 2025 / כ״ד טבת תשפ״ה
ערב שבת פרשת וארא
Candle lighting 4:48 pm
Shkiah/Sunset 5:06
Rosh Chodesh Shevat in on Thursday 

Weather: High 33° Sunny. Friday night low of 12
Shabbos day hi of 34

- Welcome home yeshiva bochurim some yeshivos have an off shabbos this week.
- Admor Toldos Tzvi of Spinka will spend shabbos in Lakewood at his B"M 424. 15th street

- Grandson of Belzer rebbe shlita will be spending shabbos at the Belz kehila in Lakewood marking a decade since its establishment 

- Ice cream house on the Lakewood/Toms River set to open within next few weeks

- Dozen LG Eggs at Trader Joe's $3.49

- All busing in Lakewood including LSTA yeshiva busing in danger of shutting down February 22nd if the state of NJ does not bail out the Lakewood school district. 
Officials tell App The township school district will run out of money next month if more state aid is not provided to help offset a $19 million deficit, officials said Wednesday night.
the district is forced to shut down that would also mean its busing of both public and non-public students would be suspended as well, officials said. The state told the district to use funds from the special reserve for yeshivos in the amount of $25 million.

Education Department spokesman Michael Yaple offered this response when asked by the Press. "The department continues to work with the Lakewood Board of Education to address its fiscal responsibilities, and we continue to work with officials from the district to assure adherence to state statutes and regulations, policies, and best practices to ensure the students receive the best education possible.”

-The Trump administration has initiated the process of deporting illegal immigrants from the US, utilizing military aircraft for this purpose.


- Due to Trump immigration emforcment Lakewood school district offering free guidance counselors and support to students  regardless of their immigration status as these changes may have a significant emotional impact on some of our students and their families, and we want to assure you that the district is here to support you. See letter below

- Trump heads to LA after NC
North Carolina's been treated very badly, so we're stopping there and we'll then go to Los Angeles and take a look at a fire that could have been put out if they let the water flow, but they didn't let the water flow.

- Tax dollars LFD budget increased by 2 milliom to accommodate growth.
The Lakewood Fire Department’s Engine Company No. 1 transitioned from a volunteer fire company to a full-time career fire company this evening. This significant reorganization brings the number of full-time paid fire companies in Lakewood to three, further enhancing fire protection and emergency response in the area.


Letter from Lakewood public schools about nee Immigration laws
Recently, changes in immigration laws have 
created uncertainty, anxiety and fear for many in our community. The Lakewood School District recognizes that these changes may have a significant emotional impact on some of our students and their families, and we want to assure you that the district is here to support you.
Our schools are committed to providing a safe, welcoming, and supportive learning environment 
for every child, regardless of their background or immigration status. No student should feel 
unsafe or unsupported within the walls of their school, and we are here to ensure that all students can focus on their education without fear.
If you notice that your child is feeling overwhelmed, anxious or struggling emotionally, we 
encourage you to reach out to your child’s school or guidance counselor. Our staff is here to listen, help, and connect you with the resources your family may need.
We value the diversity in our community and believe it enriches our schools in countless ways. Together, we will continue to foster an inclusive environment where every student feels safe, respected and supported.
Thank you for your partnership in ensuring that our students thrive academically, socially, and emotionally. Please do not hesitate to reach out if you have any questions, concerns, or need assistance.
Attached, are resources that you may find helpful.
Respectfully,
Dr. Laura A. Winters

Israel At War Friday Jan 24

 Israel at war day 476

- The White House: There is an urgent need to extend the ceasefire in Lebanon. We are pleased that the Israeli army has begun withdrawing from areas of the country.

- The government will move fwd with the deal The identities of the four hostages set to be released on Shabbos have been disclosed. They are Karina Ariev, Daniela Gilboa, Naama Levy, and Liri Elbag.

- Consultations in Israel on how to respond to the list submitted by Hams, which is NOT as per the agreement, which was to free civilians before soldiers.

- Hamas published list of 4 female hostages to be released. Officials asked media outlets not to post until all families have been notified.

- The Israeli government has just announced officially that the IDF will not be withdrawing from southern Lebanon on Sunday due to the failure of the Lebanese government to comply with the terms of the ceasefire agreement with Hezbollah.

-Israel waits for Hamas to hand over names of hostages slated for release on shabbos. 
senior Hamas official said Thursday that they will provide Israel on Friday with the names of the four hostages it will release on Saturday. 

- The security cabinet approved on Thursday night for IDF troops to remain in certain areas of southern Lebanon beyond the planned 60-day withdrawal deadline outlined in the Israel-Lebanon ceasefire deal, a security source told The Jerusalem Post. Talks are set to begin with the Trump administration about the presence of the troops that will remain in southern Lebanon 

- Mother of Hostage Agam Berger who is expected to be released on shabbos from Gaza said she will not be mechalel shabbos in order to see her daughter and will wait until shabbos is over per her discussions with rabbis. She asked the Israeli media to refrain from desecrating shabbos with reporting on the release and not to take any pictures or videos until after shabbos.

-Update on condition of Bibas family expected to be given today by Hamas.

- The house that served as one of the IDF headquarters in the Netzarim axis in recent months has been removed by the IDF.

- Mark Levin: Fantastic point. Why don’t we put tariffs on Qatar and Saudi Arabia? Qatar for funding Hamas, which murdered American citizens. And Saudi Arabia for ripping us off on oil prices, helping drive up the cost of gasoline for all Americans. If it’s good enough for our allies, it’s good enough for these Arab countries.




Thursday, January 23, 2025

Shabbos Medley Dirshu

At the Dirshu siyum on maseches shabbos at the prudential center in New Jersey with Zanvil Weinberger, Hershy Weinberger, Naftoli Kempeh

Oif Simchas Thursday 24 Teves

Chasunas:
Lazari -  Yachnes Fountain Ballroom 

- Hisvaadus chasidim and seudas Hilula for the yartzeit of the baal HaTanya at Heichal Hachasidus 501 Ocean Ave 9:30pm

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

- Hatzolah of CJ Parlor meeting event at Coventry Sq clubhouse 

The Importance of Learning Mussar

R' Simcha Bunim Cohen shlita at the H3 National Summit in Chicago  regarding proper behavior in the workplace

Thursday January 23 News Updates Lakewood

Weather: 33°, Partly cloudy. Continued cold. Temps start to warm up tomorrow, with next week reaching the upper 30s and mid-40s.

23 Teves Yartzeit of Rav Mordechai Gifter ZTL

- Teleconference: Join the first Yahrzeit of the Mashgiach Rav Matisyahu Solomon ZT"L tonight for women at 8:15 PM with Rav Sadya Gramma and Mrs. Rivky Bernfeld (niece of the Mashgiach). The live call-in number is 712-432-4305.


- Tom Homan reveals that ICE has already made 1300 arrests during deportation operations:
“We've arrested 1300 people, over a thousand of them are criminals."

- Secretary of State Marco Rubio ordered the immediate halt to gender-neutral passport markers, implementing Trump's executive order recognizing only male and female genders. The directive suspends all pending and future "X" marker applications.
Rubio: "The policy of the United States is that an individual's gender is not changeable"

- Dips from Brooklyn officially opened full time at new Lakewood location at the shopping center Chestnut corner Rt 9 North.

- President Trump signed an order to declassify the files on the assassinations of former President John F. Kennedy, Robert Kennedy, and Martin Luther King Jr.

- Sen. Lisa Murkowski (R-Alaska) says she will vote no for Trump candidate Pete Hegseth to lead the Pentagon.

- Jackson School District has announced a restructuring plan that would consolidate the district’s schools, including closing Goetz Middle School  which the district aims to sell or rent to reduce operating costs. and turning Jackson Memorial High School into a middle school for 7th and 8th graders. Under the plan, Jackson Liberty High School near westgate would become the district’s sole high school. (Snn)

- Delta confirms to DansDeals that they will resume nonstop service between JFK and Tel Aviv on April 1st. The airline last flew to Israel on 7/30/24.. 
United airlines has yet to make announcement on resumption of service.

- John Ratcliffe has been confirmed as the next CIA Director by a senate vote result of 74-25.

-Tefillos for R' Chaim Abadi of Minyan Shelanu in need of a refuah sheleima חיים ישראל בן חייה ריזא

- Lakewood BOE extends deadline to apply for vacant seat on the board to February 13, There will not be an option for the public to elect the member instead the board will appoint, 

- Elon Musk: "The radical leftists are really upset that they had to take time out of their busy day praising Hamas to call me a Nazi."

- Six Flags Great Adventure: The park has officially announced its plans for the 2025 season, including the upcoming launch of the new roller coaster, THE FLASH: Vertical Velocity. Additionally, they will now go by "Great Adventure" and drop the "Six Flags" name, according to NJ101.5.

- Flu Season: The New Jersey Department of Health reports that as of the week ending on Jan. 11, there have been 7,372 reported cases of influenza.

-Should I Buy Frog Cupcakes for My Children This Week? Q&A with Rav Chaim Mintz: Here

- LPD Alert: Please avoid the area of Princeton Ave between 4th St and 5th St due to a water main break.

- Axios Report: Trump is seeking a new agreement with Iran. Experts believe Iran can't be trusted.

- Financial Times: Trump is expected to appoint Steve Witkoff as his special representative for Iran.

- Rav Aaron Schustal shlita recently gave his second shiur Klali in BMG after he was appointed as R"M, son of the R"Y Rav Dovid shlita

- Netanyahu: "Elon Musk is being falsely smeared. Elon is a great friend of Israel. He visited Israel after the October 7 massacre, in which Hamas terrorists committed the worst atrocity against the Jewish people since the Holocaust. He has since repeatedly and forcefully supported Israel’s right to defend itself against genocidal terrorists and regimes who seek to annihilate the one and only Jewish state."

- New Jersey Gubernatorial Race: With more than 10 candidates running for governor this year, a new poll shows Republican Jack Ciattarelli and Democrat Mikie Sherrill as the early front-runners, less than six months ahead of the primary election. An Emerson College poll finds a majority of Democrats (56%) and a plurality of Republicans (47%) are still undecided.
-Democratic Primary: Sherrill 10%, Spiller 8%, Baraka 8%, Gottheimer 7%, Sweeney 7%, Fulop 4%, 55% undecided.
Republican Primary: Ciattarelli 26%, Spadea 12%, Bramnick 4%, 47% undecided.
Jackson Township: Officials are reviewing ordinances from the 1960s and 1970s to ease the burden of minor code enforcement on the municipal court system. The township will also introduce an online system for residents to pay fines for minor offenses without needing a court appearance.

- Egg Prices: Nationally, egg prices have risen more than 36% since last year, according to new Consumer Price Index data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics. The average cost of a dozen eggs is $4.15. The bird flu crisis is driving prices higher.

- Trump on JFK Documents: President Trump reveals that Mike Pompeo advised him not to release the full JFK assassination documents. "I felt he knew something," Trump said.

- Trump on Windmill Project: "A special thank you to great New Jersey Congressman Jeff Van Drew for his fight against a large-scale windmill disaster off the coast of Southern New Jersey. It required massive government subsidies that were impossible to justify. Hopefully, the project is dead and gone, as almost all unsightly and environmentally unsound windmill projects should be. Congratulations to the great people of New Jersey. You have FINALLY won your war on stupidity!"