Minhag to Give Gelt on the 5th Night of Chanukah

There is a minhag to give Chanukah gelt to your children and to the poor on the fifth night of Chanukah. The simple reason since the 5th night never falls out on shabbos. Another reason that the nasie of the 5th day is from shevet Shimon who will produce the Rebbeim to teach the children.

יש  המקפידים לתת את דמי החנוכה דוקא ביום חמישי של חנוכה הגר"ח קניבסקי  מסביר שנהגו לתת ביום זה, היות  והוא  לא  אף פעם בשבת  אורחות רבנו שם; דרך שיחה ח"א עמ' קפז; פסקי תשובות סי' עת"ר הע' 24, עמ' תסג). ויש אומרים שטעם הדבר הוא משום שימי החנוכה הם כנגד קורבנות הנשיאים כל יום כנגד נשיא אחר. ויום חמישי הוא כנגד נשיא שמעון, ושבט שמעון נעשה מלמדי תנוקות (רש"י בראשית מט, ז). לכן נהגו לתת את המעות מזרזות את הילדים ללימוד תורה ביום זה

Thursday December 18 News Updates Lakewood

4th day Chanuka חנוכה תשפ"ו

Weather: 52° Sunshine to start, then a few afternoon clouds.

Tonight: Cloudy with occasional rain late. winds increasing to 15 to 25 mph. Chance of rain 100%. Rainfall around a quarter of an inch.

Tomorrow erev Shabbos Chanukah 58° Chance of rain 90%. Rainfall near a half an inch. Winds could occasionally gust over 40 mph.

Downed trees, branches and power outages could result from the storm

- The Ocean County Prosecutor has dropped criminal charges against a frum, law-abiding gun owner, with attorney Yosef Boruch Jacobovitch citing inadequate training on New Jersey’s post-Bruen firearms laws as the root cause. Jacobovitch said the case never should have occurred and criticized both the Lakewood Police Department and the Prosecutor’s Office, noting the dismissal comes amid growing community outrage over the continued prosecution of another Lakewood resident under similar circumstances.

- Trump has signed an executive order closing most federal offices on Dec. 24 and Dec. 26.

-  A judge has ruled that Yeshiva Chemdas HaTorah may move forward with its project to add 500 parking spaces near James and Cross Streets in Lakewood. Judge Hodgson stated that since the Lakewood Township Committee determined the project is permitted, the Planning Board has no authority to block or overturn that decisions more Faanews.com 

-  Authorities are investigating a connection between last weekend's mass shooting at Brown University and the killing of an MIT professor two days later. Police have identified the suspect and issued a warrant.

- Press secretary Karoline Leavitt announced that The Kennedy Center board of directors has renamed the center to the “Trump Kennedy Center”

- Trump Downgrades Marijuana Drug Classification!

- Chanukah gelt Powerball jackpot climbs to $1.5 billion drawing Motzei shabbos 

-There will be early school dismissal today in advance of Shabbos Chanukah vacation, as many families will be heading out or traveling away for Shabbos.

- Clashes erupted Thursday afternoon near Bar Ilan Street in Yerushalayim as hundreds of local residents confronted police, following rumors of attempted arrests of yeshiva students for draft dodging. The riot reportedly broke out after municipal inspectors issued parking tickets to several yeshiva students, and quickly realized that they were draft dodgers. When police tried to hand over the students to the Military Police, they were met with resistance from bystanders, which mushroomed into a protest. Police used stun grenades and tear gas to disperse the crowd; about 10 officers were lightly injured. The protest spread from Rechov Chana to the Yirmiyahu–Eli HaKohen intersection. A spokesman for United Torah Judaism chairman Yitzhak Goldknopf declines to comment when asked about this afternoon’s riot in Jerusalem in which ultra-Orthodox demonstrators injured 10 police officers, threw stones and overturned a police vehicle.When asked for a comment, the spokesman says, “We saw this” and shares a clip of an armored officer hitting young Charedi men with a baton.

- Sesame chanuka pop up now open in Long Branch at Salt market through Monday

- New  Gourmet Glatt location in Jackson copmpleting construction expected to open within a few weeks

- A New Jersey review found that 16 school bus companies across eight counties, including two in Lakewood, repeatedly failed to submit required safety documentation before the school year began. While this does not necessarily mean drivers were unqualified, the state lacked proof of their training and credentials at the time.

- ICE agents in Lakewood today detaining individuals 

- 8 schools in Paterson and Passaic lose $7.9M in federal grants

- Boris Tetleroyd, H’YD, was identified on Thursday as a victim of the massacre at Bondi Beach.

- Giyus: Shas party knesset members paid a  visit to yeshiva students held in military prison for draft dodging.

- Giyus: Rav Dov Landau, delivered a strong address of chizuk at Yeshivas Rabbeinu Chaim Ozer after a talmid was arrested by the Israeli Military Police. Condemning the arrest as a “horrific crime,” saying the bochuhr was jailed solely for learning in yeshiva and not enlisting, calling the act deeply shocking and terrifying.

- Israeli aviation authorities announced stricter passenger screening at Ben Gurion Airport after recent security breaches, including tighter boarding-pass checks at additional checkpoints. The changes will be rolled out gradually, and officials warned of possible longer waits and congestion during the initial phase.

- Five Islamic men suspected of carrying weapons were arrested by Australian police near Bondi Beach in the city, where the deadly attack took place on Sunday. According to a report  a suspicious vehicle with five men inside collided with a police car, and then they were arrested

- Jackson Township Police Chief Matthew Kunz is expected to retire in the near future following the Township Council’s approval of a settlement related to a lawsuit he filed against the township.

- APP: The Jackson Board of Education has accepted a $40 million bid from Beth Medrash Govoha (BMG) to purchase the Christa McAuliffe Middle School, Lakewood Alerts reported Wednesday.The Lakewood-based BMG is the second-largest yeshiva in the world. It has about 9,000 students on its four Lakewood campuses.

McAuliffe School, located at 34 South Hope Chapel Road, has a 37.5-acre campus.

BMG has not publicly stated what it plans to do with the campus, and no formal proposal regarding future use of the property has been announced

- A new federal civil rights lawsuit has been filed against Lakewood Township and several Lakewood police officers in U.S. District Court. The case names the township, the police department, and individual officers as defendants.

נר ד' חנוכה והדליקו נרות בחצרות קדשך

Wednesday night 4th night of Chanukah

Chasunas:

Lipschutz - Eidelman Ateres Reva

- The Stutchin Rebbe, Rav Mottel Silber, shlita, will host a Chanukah celebration tonight at the Yeshiva Ketana hall in second street Lakewood 9:45 pm

- Chanukah mesiba tonight to benefit Kollel Choshen Mishpat at B"M Kol Aryeh Hope chapel rd B'hishtatfus HaGaon Rosh HaKollel Rav Eliyahu Levin shlita and HaRav Uren Reich shlita 9:30 pm

- Mordys Shtiebel Chanukah mesiba with Simply Tzfat band 8:00 pm

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

- The Lakewood Skulen rebbe will  e lighting tonight in Staten Island

A Dark Day: New York to Legalize Assisted Suicide

 Agudath Israel Statement:

A Dark Day: New York to Legalize Assisted Suicide

Agudath Israel expresses its profound disappointment at Governor Hochul’s announcement today of her intention to sign the Medical Aid in Dying Act, which would legalize physician assisted suicide in New York.

For over a decade, Agudath Israel has been a leader in opposing physician assisted suicide. That opposition remains today. We have had dozens of meeting with legislators, presented public testimony, made personal pleas to the governor, and circulated many action alerts which generated thousands of emails and phone calls. Our longtime opposition, and that of our coalition partners, has surely deferred this day. This law reflects, sadly, societal shifts on the value of life.

The Chazon Ish’s Shidduch-Botel or Kayam

The Chazon Ish’s Shidduch-Botel or Kayam?A Chanukah Shiur by Horav Michoel Sorotzkin-הרב מיכאל סורוצקין 

 This shiur, delivered at Yeshivas Beis Meir in Lakewood on Chanukah 5786, recounts a historic episode from nearly a century ago. As a young man, the Steipler Gaon shared a Torah insight with his brother-in-law, the Chazon Ish, during Chanukah. That Torah thought so impressed the Chazon Ish that he chose him as a shidduch for his sister, and the Shidduch was finalized. Years later, a great talmid chacham challenged that very Torah insight and remarked, with irony, that “the din of the shidduch should therefore be botel.” This unique shiur serves as a halachic analysis and response to that claim, clarifying the issue through careful halachic reasoning. The Shidduch is on!  

Wednesday December 17 News Updates Lakewood

3rd day חנוכה תשפ"ו

Weather: 48° Sunshine and clouds mixed.

A storm is expected to blast New Jersey with 50 mph winds, up to 1.5 inches of rain Thursday into Friday

- Trump Delivers Primetime Speech on Economic and Border Gains

Trump highlighted secure borders with encounters dropping from 2.1 million to 444,000, falling gas prices around $2.90-$3.00 per gallon, and native-born workers gaining all net new jobs. He touted tariffs protecting jobs and funding a $1,776 dividend for service members, while blaming prior policies for inflation, high prices, and millions of migrants including criminals. Fact-checkers noted exaggerations on inflation levels and migrant numbers, as his approval dipped amid affordability concerns despite some data-backed improvements.

- BMG to buy School campus in Jackson:

The Jackson Township Board of Education approved a $40 million bid from Beth Medrash Govoha to purchase the former Christa McAuliffe Middle School. The buyer has not announced plans for the property. The sale followed a reduction in the asking price from $54.4 million to $44.4 million to attract interest. The campus includes a large main building, modular classrooms, athletic fields, offices, and a cafetorium. The school was closed due to declining enrollment, reduced state aid, and budget shortfalls, and the district is selling surplus properties to cut costs and stabilize finances.

The school is located off S. Hope Chapel behind the Wawa and White street area. 5 minutes from Westgate.

-  The U.S. House tonight has passed the Republican healthcare plan that lets people buy insurance in groups to save money on premiums, wothout Democrats' ACA subsidies extension. The vote was 216-111

- NY Post: It’s been open season on Jews in the Big Apple.Vilification of Jews has emboldened NYC bigots and sparked a rash of ugly antisemitic attacks

Bigots have been emboldened to unleash ugly antisemitic attacks in the five boroughs, from hateful protests and vandalism to outright assaults  leaving the New York Jewish community rattled and worried about their safety.

Shkiah 4:33 pm

Zman Hadlaka al pi minhag Hayeshiva in Lakewood first night chanuka is 4:56 pm candles should burn until 6:15 pm

- Trump  on Dan Bongino  Planning To Leave FBI "Dan did a great job. I think he wants to go back to his show."

- Dan Bongino: I will be leaving my position with the FBI in January.

I want to thank President Trump, AG Bondi, and Director Patel for the opportunity to serve with purpose. Most importantly, I want to thank you, my fellow Americans, for the privilege to serve you. God bless America, and all those who defend Her. 

- NJ Gov elect Mikie Sherill will take her oath of office as the 57th Governor of New Jersey in Newark, not Trenton.  This is a break in a tradition that began in 1790.(NJGlobe)

- Former prime minister Naftali Bennett acknowledges that while his cellphone itself was not hacked, unauthorized access was gained to his Telegram account, following claims by an Iran-linked hacker group that it had breached his device.

- Netanyahu announces record natural gas deal with Egypt  worth 35 billion dollars 

The biggest deal in the history of Israel. The deal cements Israel's status as a regional energy power.

- New York Gov. Kathy Hochul announced today she will sign the Medical Aid in Dying Act, making New York one of the states allowing terminally ill patients to seek doctor-assisted suicide after years of legislative debate.

- NJ Gov Murphy announced he is pardoning another 15 individuals, and commuting the sentences of 9 more. 

- President Donald Trump will deliver a live address to the nation from the White House at 9:00 pm

- Wednesday night's Powerball lottery drawing jackpot is worth $1.25 billion, with a cash option of $572.1 million.

-A Planned Chanuka concert by MBC has been canceled after Roshei Yeshiva Letter 

Lakewood roshei yeshiva signed a letter opposing a planned Chanukah concert in Jackson, calling it a new breach. They note that the Gedolei Yisroel have previously spoken out against such venues, and especially against holding such events in Lakewood and the surrounding towns. They emphasize that even with separate seating or family seating, it is prohibited for anyone to attend this event.”

- The levaya of Rav Yitzchak Abadi, zt”l, in Eretz Yisrael will take place tonight at 7:30 pm in Beit Shemesh, with kevurah at the local Beis Hachaim.

At yesterday’s levaya in Lakewood, the Roshei Yeshiva of BMG were in attendance. Shiva will be observed at 119 Carasaljo Dr., Lakewood.

- The Stutchin Rebbe, Rav Mottel Silber, shlita, will host a Chanukah celebration tonight at the Yeshiva Ketana hall in Lakewood.

- Chanukah mesiba tonight to benefit Kollel Choshen Mishpat at B"M Kol Aryeh. B'hishtatfus HaGaon Rosh HaKollel Rav Eliyahu Levin shlita and HaRav Uren Reich shlita 9:30 pm

- Rabbi Tovia Schulzinger Rav in Kiryat Ata issues a letter opposing davening in shul accompanied by musical instruments and music.

- Lakewood industrial commission meeting today on the agenda Strand Theater / Apartments: Rental income of $167,832.36, expenses of $103,353.58, plus $26,189.24 in NJNG reimbursement, resulting in net income of $90,369.74. after spending hundreds of thousands in capital improvements 

- Chavivim of Ocean County delivered donuts to local police departments as a gesture of appreciation for the dedicated officers who serve the community.

-President Donald Trump said during a White House Chanukkah reception that his proposed ballroom could cost up to $400 million, about double the original estimate, adding that the project has faced legal challenges despite long-standing demand for such a venue.

- Mark Levin puts his arm around President Trump during the Chanukkah reception, gives him a glowing praise "6 years ago, I was up here, I said, this was our first Jewish president. Now he's the first Jewish president to serve 2 non-consecutive presidencies. We thank you for everything. You are the greatest president. God Bless you. I miss you."

- Giyus: A yeshiva bochur from Yeshivas Rabbeinu Chaim Ozer in Bnei Brak was arrested yesterday at his home in Ramat Gan, near the Bnei Brak border, after military police lay in ambush for him, following a failed arrest attempt three weeks ago. He was sentenced to 17 days in military prison.

The newspaper HaPeles criticized the total silence of those who had vowed to “move and shake the world” if any bochur were arrested. Although the bochur is not affiliated with the Bnei Torah faction, they announced plans to demonstrate in response to the arrest.

- Families in Waterbury, CT woke up Wednesday morning with running water for the first time in days as the city continues to recover from a major water main break that occurred a week ago.

- Hundreds gathered at Chabad of Bondi Sidney Australia on Wednesday morning for the Levaya of Rabbi Eli Schlanger, the 41-year-old assistant rabbi murdered Sunday evening while hosting a Chanukah celebration at Bondi Beach. His father-in-law, Rabbi Ulman, said Schlanger accomplished in 41 years what many do not achieve in a lifetime, and announced that on the final night of Chanukah, Sydney’s rabbis will gather at Bondi Beach to light the menorah together.

- Boro Park: A child and two adults were injured, and a firefighter was burned when he became trapped in the flames at a fire that broke out at the Boro Park Matzoh Bakery on 36th Street in Brooklyn. They are all in stable condition.

- Crown Heights: Video shows a visibly Jewish man stabbed multiple times in an unprovoked attack on Kingston Ave, Crown Heights. Police say the victim was stabbed multiple times, the suspect fled, and the victim is in stable condition.

-BDE: Petirah of Mr. Murray Koval Z"L from Cleveland levaya 2 pm in Cong.J LX Cleveland zoom link Here 

- Attention travelers flying on Chanukah who will miss menorah lighting: FAA regulations require any flashlight on board to be less than 7 inches.(Yudelstake)

- Developers of Adventure Crossing USA in Jackson, the partially-built sports and entertainment complex, are accused of defaulting on a $14.4 million loan from a Delaware-based bank, according to a new lawsuit.

- New Jersey workers are getting a pay bump. The state’s minimum wage will rise by 43 cents to $15.92 per hour on Jan. 1, continuing a steady climb that began under Gov. Phil Murphy. Seasonal and small employers will be required to raise their minimum pay at the start of 2026, though their rates will remain lower. Their minimum wage will move from $14.53 to $15.23.

- Trump: "If you go back 10, 12, 15 years ago at the most, the strongest lobby in Washington was the Jewish lobby. It was Israel. That's no longer true. You have to be very careful. You have a Congress in particular which is becoming antisemitic. You have AOC plus three, you have those people."

נר ג' חנוכה והדליקו נרות בחצרות קדשך

 Tuesday night 27 Kislev  Chanukah 5786

Chasuna:

Selmar - Miller Ateres Esther

Roth - Teichman Ateres Blima

- Leisure Chateau community Chanuka event for the whole family with R' Joey Newcomb refreshments and free gifts. 7:00pm 962 River Ave Lakewood parking available at Todd plaza

- Yeshiva S. Fallsburg alumni chanuka mesiba with The R"Y Rav Elya Ber Wachtfogel shlita at Williams st shul hall 8:45 pm

- Admor Toldos Tzvi of Spinka will conduct Hadlokas Ner Chanukah tonight in Lakewood at his B"M 424. 15th street between Forest and Madison 8 30 pm

- Hadlokas Neiros & Mesibas Chanuka at the home of Reb Chaim Eluzur Klein shlita 174 Village Path Lakewood 8:00 pm with חלוקת מטבע

- Adomor 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 

- Kollel Ohr Shmuel family Chanuka party at Lakewood Cheder hall

- Sons of Israel Shul chanuka mesiba at the shul 6th and Madison 7:30 pm

-B"M of Holly Oaks,Manchester Chanuka Mesiba in the shul. Drasha by Rav Nochum Binder

- B"M Hachodosh Toms River Rav Blier Chanuka mesiba

Tuesday December 16 News Updates

Second day Chanukah 5786

Weather: 34° Sunny to partly cloudy.

Thursday night heavy rain, up to 50 mph gusts in forecast along the Jersey shore 

- Trump hosted two Chanukah parties today at the Whitehouse  attended by Jewish  staff and guests. Video Here

Miriam Adelson at the WH Chanuka party  said says she spoke to Alan Dershowitz in Israel about the legality of Trump serving a third 4-year term: "We can do it!.. Think about it. I will give you another $250 million."

 

- Trump orders full blockade on sanctioned oil tankers entering or leaving Venezuela

- Levaya of  Rabbi Eli Schlanger HYD Chabad shliach killed in Sydney massacre. Liveatream of Levaya now wed morning in Australia Here

- Heavy traffic  this afternoon due to early dismissal and no transportation 

Shkiah 4:33 pm

Zman Hadlaka al pi minhag Hayeshiva in Lakewood first night chanuka is 4:56 pm candles should burn until 6:15 pm

- Powerball jackpot now at $1.25 Billion with next drawing Wednesday night 

- An older Jewish couple tussled with Sydney terrorist before killing spree began and were slain Boris and Sofia Gurman seen in dashcam footage fighting with Sajid Akram before both were shot dead; Reuven Morrison HYD seen hurling objects at gunman before he too was killed

- Another name of a murder victim in the attack in Australia was published, Edith Brotman HYD

- NYC Mayor-elect Zohran Mamdani visited the Ohel of the Lubavitcher Rebbe in Queens last night to pay his respects to the victims of the Bondi Beach terror attack

- Sesame bakery  extended Chanukah hours open from 7am - 9 pm

- The New Jersey state Assembly State and Local Government Committee voted unanimously to approve a bill designating the hazelnut as the official State nut.

- Last night in Toms River, the Chabad Jewish Center of Toms River hosted a Chanukkah celebration that included a menorah parade with cars decorated with menorahs and a public menorah lighting at Toms River Town Hall

- Giyus: Chairman of the 'United Torah Judaism' faction, MK Yitzhak Goldknopf, sharply attacked the conscription law being formulated in the Foreign Affairs and Defense Committee, claiming that it severely harms Torah students. According to him, "it turns them into third-class citizens, worse than terrorists," and he warned that the law would lead to immediate harm to tens of thousands of Torah students.

- Elon Musk has begun funding Republicans in the 2026 midterms, to help President Trump secure the second half of his term - Axios

- BDE: Petira of Rav Shraga Bressler ZTL of Monsey sin in law by the  Manchester RY ZTL Levaya in Monsey today at Bais Medrash Elyon

-Fox: The FBI warned the Biden Admin that there was NOT probable cause to raid Mar a Lago.They raided President Trump anyway.

- Last night antisemitic attack involving a group of Jews from Canada returning from a Chanukkah event in Manhattan were attacked by two the young  men on the subway, beat them, and cursed them for being Jewish

- Susie Wiles trump Chief of staff responds to an article about the WH: The article published this morning is a misleading hit piece that omits critical context to push a false narrative of chaos. The truth is the Trump White House has accomplished more in eleven months than most administrations do in eight years, thanks to President Trump’s unmatched leadership. Nothing will distract us from continuing to Make America Great Again.

- In the interview, Susie Wiles offered unusually blunt assessments of key figures around Trump. She described Donald Trump as having “an alcoholic’s personality,” saying her ability to manage him comes from growing up with an alcoholic father. She portrayed Vice President JD Vance as a long-time conspiracy theorist whose shift from Trump critic to ally was politically motivated, not principled. Wiles was sharply critical of Elon Musk, calling him an “avowed ketamine user,” an “odd duck,” and often irrational. She labeled budget director Russell T. Vought a right-wing zealot, defended USAID as effective and valuable, and faulted Attorney General Pam Bondi for mishandling the Epstein files, saying she “completely whiffed” it.

- Israel Due to the steep rise in flu cases over the past few weeks, the Health Ministry says it recommends that at-risk people, medical staff and visitors to geriatric institutions wear protective face masks. The ministry says that as of December 7, there have been 513 new cases of influenza A and one positive case of Influenza B, based on reports from 14 hospitals.

- The executive director of Garden State Equality, an LGBTQ rights organization in Monmouth County, is facing charges of child endangerment and assault following an incident last month at his Neptune City home. Court documents state he is charged with second-degree endangering the welfare of a child by a caretaker and two counts of simple assault.

-Nvidia is set to build Israel’s largest tech campus in the country’s north, with the deal expected to be signed within days, according to Yaakov Kvint, director of the Israel Land Authority. The campus will span roughly 160,000 square meters, accommodate around 8,000 workers, and be about 30% larger than Nvidia’s Silicon Valley campus described as “the likes of which have never been seen before in Israel.”

World Insurance Associates, a Top 50 Insurance Brokerage, announced today that it acquired the business of The Fidella Agency of Lakewood, NJ on September 1, 2025. Terms of the transaction were not disclosed. Fidella was founded in 2011 The agency specializes in commercial property/real estate insurance.

- New Jersey officials have boosted security at synagogues and Jewish events statewide following a deadly Hanukkah terrorist attack in Sydney that killed at least 15 people, with Gov. Phil Murphy and Attorney General Matthew Platkin stressing the move is precautionary and that there are no known threats to New Jersey.

- In the aftermath of a deadly terror attack in Sydney that killed 15 people, Rabbi Yehoram Ulman delivered an emotional and powerful message during Shacharis, calling for chizuk  and achdus  rather than despair. Overcome0 with grief, he recited Baruch Dayan HaEmes as he mourned his own son-in-law, Rabbi Eli Schlanger Hy”d, who was among the victims

Zmanei Hadlaka at the homes of the Roshei Yeshiva in EY.

Israel News Dec 16

 Day 802

- This afternoon, the U.S. began on-the-ground preparations tied to Phase 2 of the Gaza agreement, even though Hamas has not been dismantled and Israel continues to oppose moving to the next phase. The preparations are based on Clause 17 of the agreement, which allows expanded aid and early reconstruction in areas deemed “clean of Hamas” and transferred from the IDF to an international stabilization force, even if Hamas delays or rejects further steps.

- The IDF attacked a terrorist from the Hezbollah organization in the Al-Taybeh area in southern Lebanon.

- Israeli Minister Amichai Chikli: The Australian government is hostile to Israel, and it did not handle the manifestations of antisemitism. The police did not manage the event properly

- The International Criminal Court on Tuesday rejected Israel's appeal of arrest warrants that an ICC lower court issued in 2024 against Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and former defense minister Yoav Gallant.

- Spokesperson for the Revolutionary Guards: "Iran is preparing for an inevitable confrontation with Israel, and this is after receiving intelligence from Pakistan that came from the US regarding the fact that Israel is preparing to attack Iran soon."

Rabbi Yitzchak Abadi Z"TL

 Petirah of HaRav Yitzchak Abadi zt”l,  posek and marbitz Torah from Lakewood’s early years.

The levaya is scheduled to take place at 11 AM Tuesday morning at the Sons of Israel Chapel in Lakewood, 613 Ramsey Avenue. Kevurah will take place in Eretz Yisroel.

Satmar Concerns & Breslov Response

A Torah Conversation: Satmar Concerns & Breslov Response video below features differing perspectives on Breslov. In the first clip, the Satmar Rebbe, Rabbi Aaron Teitelbaum, recently addressed bochurim and strongly opposes involvement with Breslov teachings and travel to Uman, reflecting the Satmar mesorah and communal approach. In the second clip, Rav Mota Frank presents the Breslov perspective, explaining the spiritual value many find in Rebbe Nachman’s teachings and personal avodah. The video aims to present both views respectfully, highlighting that within Klal Yisrael there are different legitimate paths in serving Hashem.

נר ב' חנוכה והדליקו נרות בחצרות קדשך

- BMG Mesibas Chanukah at Beren hall with  the participation of Harav Malkiel Kotler shlita Rav Lipa Geldwerth shlita and Rav Simcha Bunim Londinski shlita 8:00pm

- Admor M' Kruli shlita will host a menorah lighting event in Lakewood, at the Chayei Yisrael shul on Gudz Road. 9:00 pm followed by mesibas Lechaim Dreidel and chalukas matbea 

-Admor M'Dzikov Vizhnitz will have hadlokas ner Chanukah tonight at the Veyalipol B"M 1142 E. County Line 8:45 pm 

-Adomor 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 

An annual gathering for mohalim will take place tonight at Bais Medrash Lev Avos on Iris Road, with remarks by Dr. Shanik at 8:00 p.m.

Monday December 15 News Updates Lakewood

 weather: 28° Sunshine and clouds mixed

Shkiah 4:32 pm

Zman Hadlaka al pi minhag Hayeshiva in Lakewood first night chanuka is 4:55 pm candles should burn until 6:14 pm

-BDE: Petirah of Rav Yitzchok Abadi ZTL levaya tomorrow morning 11am

- Chanukah Gelt: Powerball Jackpot is now $1.1 Billion, drawing tonight

- BMG Chanukah mesiba tonight 

- Jackson officials praised their Department of Public Works for quickly clearing roads, ensuring safe travel for the Monday morning commute.

 In contrast, Lakewood officials were largely absent before and during the storm, leaving many streets icy and too narrow for two cars to pass, creating hazardous conditions. Yet in a post-storm press release, Lakewood DPW officials thanked their employees and commended them for a job well done.

- Topping the overall list of snow total was Metuchen in Middlesex County, which reported 8.7 inches of snow, followed by Howell in Monmouth County and Jackson in Ocean County, both of which reported 8.6 inches.Lakewood received about 8 inches of snow, while nearby Jackson and Howell recorded roughly 8.6 inches. Toms River 8.1 inches and Manchester Township measured around 8.2 inches, according to National Weather Service data some numbers are within inches based on spotter location 

- An annual gathering for mohalim will take place tonight at Bais Medrash Lev Avos on Iris Road, with remarks by Dr. Shanik at 9:00 p.m.

- Giyus: The Hamodia newspaper continued its criticism of the Conscription (Giyus) Law. A source familiar with the law noted that the precedent was already established in sections maintained by UTJ knesset members in the 2015 government, and there is nothing new. A senior Charedi party official commented, “There are enough real problems in the law, no need to invent more.”

- Federal authorities say they disrupted an alleged terror plot involving members of a radical pro-Palestinian extremist group accused of planning bomb attacks at multiple locations in Los Angeles on New Year’s Eve. Four suspects were arrested in California, with another detained in Louisiana, and officials said the threat was considered imminent before being stopped.

- Adirei hatorah launches Adireinu chanukah campaign As the Kitzur shulchan Aruch writes, Chanukah is a special time to support those who dedicate their lives to Torah. Donate Here

- FBI offficials say they disrupted an alleged terror plot involving members of a radical pro-Palestinian extremist group accused of planning bomb attacks at multiple locations in Los Angeles on New Year’s Eve. Four suspects were arrested in California, with another detained in Louisiana, and officials said the threat was considered imminent before being stopped.

- A lawyer for the Toms River Regional school superintendent and school board sent a letter accusing Mayor Daniel Rodrick of improper political interference in school district matters and warned that legal action may follow.(APP)

- Mikie Sherrill's pick of Jennifer Davenport as attorney general has already cleared the senatorial courtesy hurdle, with support from her two home-county senators: Democrat Vin Gopal and Republican Declan O'Scanlon.

- Trump says a Hollywood couple have passed away reportedly killed by their son "reportedly due to the anger he caused others through his massive, unyielding, and incurable affliction with a mind crippling disease known as TRUMP DERANGEMENT SYNDROME."

- Please daven for Habachur Leibel Lazaroff, a 20-year-old American from Crown Heights, who was critically injured in a terrorist attack at a Chanukkah celebration on Bondi Beach, Sydney. He was shot in the abdomen and leg and is scheduled for surgery. Lazaroff recently studied in a Crown Heights yeshiva and moved to Sydney two months ago. יהודה לייב בן מאניא.

School Delays Monday Dec 15

Monday, December 15

90 minute delays

LSTA:  As of now, Boys Elementary and Boys High Schools will run on a regular bus schedule.

Girls High School and Girls Elementary School will run on a 90-minute delay.

Playgroups  will be starting late too.

Temperatures will remain below freezing today, causing delayed school openings due to hazardous conditions and black ice. Some schools are open without transportation, requiring parent carpools. Roads remain slick and not fully cleared.

Several Ocean County school districts have announced closures or delays for Monday, Dec. 15, 2025. Snow totals reached up to 8 inches in parts of New Jersey. The National Weather Service warns that refreezing slush will create black ice through Monday morning, with wind chills near zero along the coast and as low as 8 below zero inland.

 Transportation Update from LSTA:

We operate approximately 2,300 daily bus routes, many shared with surrounding districts. Due to five neighboring districts running on a 90-minute delay, routes were adjusted overnight. We thank our transportation vendors and Lakewood, Toms River, Jackson, and Howell Police and DPW for their efforts.

As of now, Boys Elementary and Boys High Schools will run on a regular bus schedule.

Girls High School and Girls Elementary School will run on a 90-minute delay.

Start times are set by each school-please follow communication from your child's school. Some routes may have different drivers, and road conditions may cause delays. Thank you for your patience.

If anything changes, we will be in touch.

Statements On Chanukah Terror Attack in Australia

Statements below  from Agudath Israel of America and from Chabad Lubavitch world headquarters on the Deadly Antisemitic Terror Attack in Australia:

באלייכט

Recorded at Dirshu London erev Chanuka

 In the town of Lublin, the residents sought guidance from the revered Chozeh about a person they believed was spreading harmful rumors. Surprisingly, when they showed the Chozeh the name of the accused, he declared this person to be a tzaddik, radiant with goodness. Confused, the townsfolk visited the slanderer’s home and found him lighting the menorah. Intrigued, they returned to the Chozeh, who explained that the act of lighting a menorah fills the world with great light. “When a Yid lights Chanukah lecht,” he proclaimed, “he lights up the entire world and shines and shines!” This story serves as a reminder that seemingly small mitzvos, such as lighting the menorah, are deeply significant to Hashem and cast a spiritual light that illuminates the world. 

והדליקו נרות בחצרות קדשך

 First night of Chanukah  חנוכה תשפ"ו

על הנסים ועל הפורקן 

Weather tonight low of 16° Partly cloudy skies. Winds10 to 20 mph.

- Admor M'Bluzhov will have a hadolkas ner Chanukah tonight at 1404 14th street in Lakewood @ 8:45 pm 

- Adomor 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 

-Mesibas chanukah for talimidim of Rav Moshe Hirsch shlita R"M in Lakewood mesivta celebrating the completion of his sefer שירת נשה on  מסכת בבא בתרא at Kamenutz hall 831 Ridge Ave  Lakewood 9:00pm

Sunday Erev Chanukah 5786 December 14 News Updates Lakewood

- Lakewood Schools will have up to 90 minute delays tomorrow morning with transportation  some schools will have no transportation in the morning.

- LSTA: possible delays tomorrow morning as surrounding districts have delayed openings due to icing conditions. Stay tuned for information from your school.

- The person of interest detained in connection with the Brown University shooting, identified by law enforcement sources as Benjamin Erickson, is a decorated soldier who had served in a position at Arlington National Cemetery

 The forecast for tonight Dec. 14 includes more snow, with peak gusts of wind up to 25 to 40 mph that will result in very low wind chill. Areas of blowing snow are possible, which may result in roads becoming snow-covered again and reduced visibility at times. 

- Many secondary roads in Lakewood have not been plowed. State and county thourofares are clean to the blacktop.

- Toms River received 4 inches according to APP.

- Shkiah 4:32 pm

Zman Hadlaka al pi minhag Hayeshiva in Lakewood first night chanuka is 4:55 pm candles should burn until 6:14 pm

- Make your own donuts but package of frozen dinner rolls from Walmart/Target the Rodes brand 36 for $4. Let it rise for half hour then fry in oil sprinkle  confectionery sugar on top or fill with Jelly or caramel etc.. bracha is Mezonos only of fried. If it's  baked bracha is Hamoitze.

- PSA: L'toeles Harabim! Today is the day to Toivel the coffee machines. Gently place in snow, pat it down so no air bubbles and snow is covering the machine. No Bracha.

- Chanukah Gelt: Powerball jackpot grows to an estimated $1.1 billion with next drawing Monday night.

- At Bingo 15% off Sushi platters for chanukah

-  New for this year Chanukah: Gelbstein’s is offering the option to print business logos on Chanuka donuts. Siegelman’s of Brooklyn, known for their popular log cakes at simchas, has launched a new line of sufganiyot for Chanuka. Several bakeries have also introduced gluten-free donuts, and one of the most popular items this season is the Dubai chocolate donut, available in both pareve and dairy versions.

- Bingo selling 4 pk donuts  for $4.29 and 6 pk for $8.49.

- Can't afford that new silver menorah? The price of silver is on a record high of more than $62 an ounce this week as demand grows as investors buy up following record highs of Gold.

-Rav Steinman’s Shocking Request Ended the Wedding -an unbelievable story for Reb Aharon Leib Shteinman zt"l Yahrtzeit today as said by Reb Michoel Sorotzkin in an event last week.

Watch Here

 - A Arkia flight scheduled to leave last night motzei shabbos from JFK to Israel was delayed when a Philippine plane crashed into the Arkia plane on the ground at JFK airport.  approximately 270 passengers, were delayed due to damage from the accident.

- BDE: Petirah of Reb Yitzy Breizel Z”L of Lakewood at the age of 59 following an illness. He was a longtime mkspalel at the Bais Morchaei B"M (Mickeys). Levaya tomorrow 10am in  Bais Mordechai off Heathwood Ave with Kevura in Monsey

- India has been placed on high alert following intelligence warnings of planned terrorist attacks targeting Jews in major cities including Delhi, Bengaluru and Mumbai – NDTV

- Brown University mass shooter yelled “Allahu Akbar” before opening fire on campus according to sources. Police have a suspect in custody but no information has been provided yet.

- Zohran Mamdani condemned a deadly antisemitic attack at a Chanukah celebration in Sydney, calling it “a vile act of antisemitic terror” and expressing sympathy for the victims, their families, and the Jewish community. However, he faced criticism for later describing the perpetrators as “men with long guns,” a phrase critics say downplayed the ideological and terrorist nature of the antisemitic assault.

- Sen. John Fetterman on Western nations for embracing Islamists in Palestine: "It's an absolute BETRAYAL...whether it's France, Australia, or any of these western allies, calling for a 2-state solution, when Hamas refuses to disarm and actively tries to kill Jews? I can't imagine why anyone would do that at this point." "Antisemitism is a worldwide scourge and it keeps demonstrating itself to be DEADLY...just like Australia."

Rav Berel Povarsky

        Rav Dov Landau  lighting Menorah

Rav Yitzchok Yoswf ahlita lights the Menorah

At the kosel with former hostages

 

Rav Dov Landau prepares the Menorah

Snow storm Updates

Snow totals from the National Weather Service 

By trained spotters

Toms River 8.1 inches    1200 PM                

Brick 7.1 in 1130 AM        

Jackson 6.8 in 0913 AM      

Point Pleasant 6.4 in 1100 AM          

Lakewood 7 inches   

- Reports of power outages across NJ with over 21,000 customers out so far across New Jersey. The bulk of those are in Burlington, Camden and Monmouth counties.

- 10:00 am Lakewood Weather Update:

Approximately 5 inches of snow has fallen so far in Lakewood. Due to warmer temperatures, the snow is  wet abd great for making a snowman  and snowballs wnile also sticking to trees and power lines, increasing the risk of falling branches and downed wires from the added weight. As temperatures drop, compacted snow is expected to turn to ice, creating hazardous conditions.

- Cars are spinning on compacted snow

- Most elementary schools  cancelled for the day.

Weather today 34° Snow along with gusty winds this morning. Then becoming partly cloudy this afternoon. Morning high of 34F with temps falling to near 20. Winds NW at 20 to 30 mph. Chance of snow 100%. 1 to 3 inches of snow expected. Higher wind gusts possible

Storm expected to leave at 12pm

Lakewood cheder 10am start

No transportation to  boy schools

- NWS“Heavy snow expected. Total snow accumulations between 3 and 7 inches,”  “Plan on slippery road conditions. Areas of blowing snow could significantly reduce visibility.”

-  The first snow of the season fell early this morning, with children waking up excited to see a significant snowstorm for the first time in a while. As it is Erev Chanukah, elementary boys’ schools announced a late opening with no transportation. Several schools, however, have not yet announced their schedule for today. Although trucks and plows have been out treating the roads, the snowfall has intensified, and many roads remain unsafe for travel.

- Be careful while shoveling snow. Since it’s wet and heavy, it can increase the risk of heart attacks and cardiovascular events. If you’re shivering, stop. Push the snow to the sides instead of lifting it, or consider hiring someone to do the job.

Terror Attack at Chabad Chanukah Event in Australia

          נקם נקמת דם עבדיך מאמה הרשעה

- Death toll rises to 16 R"L 

- A 10-year-old girl, Matilda Poltavchenko Hy"d, was among those killed in the deadly terror attack mass shooting at Bondi Beach on Sunday evening.

- Another Chabad shliach was identified Rabbi Yaakov Halevi Levitin HY’D. Rabbi Levitan was a shliach at the BINA Center under Rabbi Michoel Gourarie, and he also served as the secretary at the Sydney Beis Din.

- Mr. Reuven Morrison, a member of the Chabad community in Sydney, has been identified as one of the victims killed in a terrorist attack in Australia. He was known to be a baal chesed and a philanthropist.

-  Australian officials have confirmed that the perpetrators of the antisemitic attack at Bondi Beach in Sydney were a father and son. Bondi Beach attackers were a 50-year-old and 24-year-old father and son. The father, was killed, had six firearms licensed to him.

Updated names for Tehllim for the injured in the Bondi Beach terror attack 

Yehuda Leib Ben Manya

Chaya Mushka bas Shterna Sara

Feivel Eliezer ben Dobra Bella

Arsan ben Amelia

Yaakov Dov ben Pnina

Yaakov ben Ethel

Moshe Yonatan ben Tziporah

Elon Ben Shimshon

Yaacov Ben Miriam

Shoshana Bat Minette

-Mr. Alex Kleytman HYD , a Holocaust survivor and native of Ukraine, has been identified as one of the victims murdered in the deadly attack at a Chanukah event in Sydney, Australia

- Another victim Dan Elkayam HYD, a young French Jewish man who was attending the Chanukah celebration at Bondi Beach when he was murdered in the terror attack.

- One of the survivors of the terror attack at a Bondi Beach Hanukkah celebration said four police officers just “froze” during the 20-minute rampage on Sunday that killed 11..

- Twelve people have been murdered, including Chabad shliach Rabbi Eli Schlanger HYD, and over 60 people were wounded, after a mass shooting targeted a Chanukkah celebration in Bondi Beach, Sydney, Australia, on Sunday.

- A senior U.S. official told Fox News that if the Australia attack was ordered by Iran, the U.S. fully recognizes Israel’s right to strike Iran in response.

- A heroic muslim shopkeeper tackled and disarmed one of the terrorists who opened fire on a Bondi Beach Chanukkah celebration in Australia Sunday. Video captured the moment that the good Samaritan, wearing a white shirt, sneaked up behind the shotgun-wielding gunman and wrestled the weapon away from him. He was shot twice in his arm and hospitalized.

Two terrorists were taken into police custody shortly after the event, local law enforcement confirmed. One of the jihadist attackers was killed by police. One of the attackers is  Pakistani descent.

. There were over 2000 people  celebrating chanukah at the menorah lighting event.

The party, Chanukkah by the Sea, is an annual event run by Chabad of Bondi, where the community lights up the menorah on the first day of the holiday.

Names for Tehillim

Yaakov ben Miriam

Feivel Eliezer ben Dabra Beila

Yaakov Dov ben Penina

who are in serious condition.

 A Zaka delegation was sent from Israel to help with bringing the victims to kevurah.

Sidney Jewish community leader:

"This is a day of profound grief. Members of our community have been murdered. Others have been seriously injured. Families are shattered. A sacred moment of light has been turned into darkness. We are working urgently with authorities as further details are confirmed. Our focus right now is on the victims, their families, and the safety of the community,"

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese “This is a targeted attack on Jewish Australians on the first day of Hanukkah, which should be a day of joy, a celebration of faith  an act of evil, antisemitism, terrorism that has struck the heart of our nation,”.

Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar says Australia was warned about potential attacks on Jews as senior Israeli government officials express horror over today’s shooting at Bondi Beach in Sydney, with some blaming Canberra for not doing enough to combat antisemitism.

The number of dead in the Sydney shooting is “higher than what has been reported,” Israel’s Ambassador to Australia Amir Maimon tells Channel 12 news.

There was no concrete intelligence about an impending attack, says Maimon after speaking with Australian authorities, but there were warnings in the national threat assessment about the likelihood of terrorist attacks.

“Since October 7 we have witnessed a series of actions against the Jewish community and its institutions, a series that only intensified,” Maimon says, adding that he said publicly on numerous occasions that “if I were to wake up one morning and learn that a Jew was physically harmed, I wouldn’t be surprised.”

Chabad Shliach Rabbi Eli Schlanger HYD at his son's bris a few weeks ago

A blood stained talis katan

Chabad shliach Rav Yaakov Levitin HYD

Motzei Shabos Vayeshev News Updates Lakewood

Erev Chanukah 5786

Yartzeit of Rav Aaron Leib Steinman ztl today

Weather: 30° Snow likely Chance of snow 100%. 3 to 5 inches of snow expected.

Roadways were treaded ahead of the forecasted storm. 

The highest snowfall totals of 3 to 6 inches are expected across Mercer, Monmouth, Burlington and Ocean counties. Heaviest snow will fall after midnight.

- Powerball drawing tonight Jackpot $1 billion 

-Center of town open until 11pm

Judaica stores open until 12am

- Zman Hadlaka al pi minhag Hayeshiva in Lakewood first night chanuka is 4:55 pm candles should burn until 6:14 pm

- BDE: Petirah of 10-year-old Batsheva Lieberman a”h.wh bpassed away suddenly on shabbos daughter of R’ Elimelech Shmuel and Devorah Leeba. The levaya is scheduled tonight  9 pm at the Lakewood Chapel, with kevurah in the adjacent bais olam.

- BDE: Petirah of Rav Reuvane Chinn zt”l, of Toronto who was niftar before Shabbos after suffering cardiac arrest. He was in his early seventies. For nearly four decades, Rav Reuven stood at the heart of Yeshiva Gedolah of Toronto, serving as  R”M and foubder of the vasikin minyan. A talmid chchom who had many talmidim. Levaya in Toronto with kevurah in Lakewood more

- Two people have died, and eight more are hospitalized after a shooting at Brown University, officials say. A shooter has not yet been taken into custody at Brown University mass shooting in Providence Rhode Island

President Trump says he's been fully briefed about the deadly shooting at Brown University, where two people have been killed and eight more are injured.

"What a terrible thing it is. And all we can do right now is pray for the victims."

- Jackson Police are investigating a fatal crash that occurred Friday afternoon, Dec. 12.

The accident was reported on Toms River Road shortly after 2 p.m. A van and a dump truck collided killing a woman, authorities said.

The van was passing several vehicles before slamming into a dump truck head-on, authorities said.

-Ocean County Library Lakewood Branch to Host Courage to Remember Holocaust Exhibit from January 6 to February 3, 2026

-Over shabbos several helicopters were flying low over Lakewood in formation.

Israel News Motzei Shabbos Vyeshev

Day 800

 - Hamas #2 eliminated In a precision strike in Gaza City this morning, the IDF eliminated Raad Saad, the #2 in the terrorist group Hamas, and a chief architect of the 10/7 Massacre.

- Israel has provided mediators with a list of the names of Palestinian Islamic Jihad operatives believed to have direct knowledge of the location of slain hostage police officer Master Sgt. Ran Gvili, Channel 12 reported Friday, as Jerusalem intensified efforts to secure the return of his body and warned that progress in talks hinges on the issue.

- This morning, the IDF issued an evacuation warning for buildings in the village of Yanouh in southern Lebanon. However, the IDF observed that the Lebanese Army quickly reached the targeted sites in order to "address the violations."

- Two US Army soldiers and an American civilian interpreter were killed by a terrorist while on patrol near Palmyra in Syria.

The terrorist was killed by other forces and was a member of the new Syrian regime's (Ahmed al-Sharaa/Julani) security forces.

- US briefly withheld some intel from Israel under Biden over concerns on Gaza conduct

Sources say US also limited how Israel could use certain intelligence to pursue high-value targets in Gaza, add that Biden rejected request from officials to formally cut off access

Lakewood Zmanim עש"ק פרשת וישב מברכים חודש טבת תשפ"ו

Friday, December 12, 2025 / כ״ב כסלו תשפ״ו ערב שבת פרשת וישב

shabbos מברכים חודש טבת 

Candle lighting 4:13 pm

Shkiah/sunset 4:31 pm

Weather:  Shabbos day 44° Cloudy. 

Motzei shabbos 28° Snow accumulating 1 to 3 inches.

- Rosh Chodesh Teves is next Shabbos chanuka and on Sunday

Molad is Friday night 22 minutes and 10 chalakim after 2:00 am

                           את אחיי אנכי מבקש

The Drasha Addressed to Napoleon Bonaparte this weeks parsha

The Drasha Addressed to Napoleon Torah.org

Rav Yaakov Moshe Kulefsky, zt”l, once told me the following incident. When Napoleon had achieved one of his major military victories

Yosef found himself in the dungeon together with Pharaoh’s wine butler (Sar HaMashkim). He interpreted for him his dream: “The three clusters are three days. In another three days Pharaoh will lift up your head and will restore you to your post and you will place Pharaoh’s cup in his hand as was the former practice when you were his cupbearer.” [Bereshis 40: 12-13]

Friday December 12 News Updates Lakewood

 Friday, December 12, 2025 / כ״ב כסלו תשפ״ו ערב שבת פרשת וישב

shabbos מברכים חודש טבת 

Candle lighting 4:13 pm

Shkiah/sunset 4:31 pm

Weather: 36° Plentiful sunshine. tonight low of 22

Shabbos day 44° Cloudy. 

Motzei shabbos 28° Cloudy with rain and snow in the evening, becoming all snow late. Chance of precip 90%. Snow accumulating 1 to 3 inches.

Sunday Erev Chanuka: 32° Light snow during the morning Chance of snow 70%. Snow accumulations less than one inch.

Jackson Lakewood Toms River : 1 to 3 inches

- Rosh Chodesh Teves is next Shabbos chanuka and on Sunday

Molad is Friday night 22 minutes and 10 chalakim after 2:00 am

- Some playgroup morahs have said they did not teach the story in this weeks parsha of mechiras Yosef to the kids based on guidance they received from rabbonim over the years 

- Miami boys choir with new Chanukah nights music video Here 

- Power ball Jackpot is an estimated $1 billion drawing is Motzei shabbos

- AMEX Platinum Resy Credit Use by 12/31 Use your $100 Q4 Resy credit now:

Get a $115 Lamppost Bistro e-gift card for $100 with code GCDD25.(Dansdeals)

-- New for this year Chanukah: Gelbstein’s is offering the option to print business logos on Chanuka donuts. Siegelman’s of Brooklyn, known for their popular log cakes at simchas, has launched a new line of sufganiyot for Chanuka. Several bakeries have also introduced gluten-free donuts, and one of the most popular items this season is the Dubai chocolate donut, available in both pareve and dairy versions.

Bingo selling 4 pk for $4.29 and 6 pk for $8.49

- LSTA officials told TVOL that they are not legally obligated to transport students every single school day from September through June 30. They said their contract with the BOE requires only that they “procure the services of transportation for the students,” not provide buses on every date.

This response came after parents complained about the lack of transportation on Thanksgiving and December 25.

- Gourmet Glatt now requires a PIN number for self-checkout in addition to your phone number. The PIN can be set up at the customer service desk. The change was made for security after some customers were abusing the system by entering random phone numbers.

- RCCS auction concluded last night hitting their goal of over $4 million the lakewood community raise $609k

- Connecticut will spend $70 million to help offset the loss of $295 million in expiring federal ACA premium tax credits, Gov. Ned Lamont announced Thursday. He used emergency authority granted in last month’s special session to authorize the funding, following the U.S. Senate’s failure to advance either a Democratic or Republican plan to extend the credits. New Jersey has not said anything yet regarding the high premiums for residents.

- The BMG Chanukah mesiba will take place this Monday evening 2nd night of Chanuka 

- A pedestrian was injured in a crash on Route 547/Squankum Road around 6 p.m. Wednesday, Howell police said. The incident occurred just north of Maxim Road and remains under investigation. The woman struck was still alive as of Thursday morning, according to Police Chief John Storrow. Further details have not yet been released.

- Giyus: Officials in Israel’s Finance and Justice ministries are considering a full freeze on all yeshiva funding until the government can confirm that none of the money is reaching yeshiva students classified as draft-evaders.

- Police in Tel Aviv are searching for a 19-year-old bochur from Bnei Brak who has been missing since Wednesday evening, Israel Police said. Eliyahu Abba Shaul left his home shortly before Storm Byron intensified and has not made contact since. According to Channel 12, search efforts are focused near the Yarkon River, where his bicycle was found.

Vudeo: Chanukah vibes in Yerushalayim 

Oif Simchas Thurs 22 Kislev

Chasunas:

Gelb - Singer Kesser Moshe Yehuda 

Freeman  - Hauer Fountain Ballroom 

Eidelman - Kasten Bais Faiga

Serri- Avital Ateres Reva

Skaist - Rubin Ateres Blima 

Blumenkrantz - Benkowsky Ateres Esther 

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

Thursday December 11 News Updates Lakewood

 36° Partly cloudy. Winds 15 to 25 mph. Higher wind gusts possible.

Snow possible erev Chanukah Up to 2 inches of snow is possible on Motzei shabbos into Sunday from a quick-hitting storm. Forecast for Lakewood Chance of snow 70%. Snowfall around one inch.

- New Jersey Declares Propane Emergency Amid Cold Snap

Giv. Phil Murphy issued Executive Order No. 408 on Thursday, effective Friday at 9 a.m., waiving federal driver hour limits to let propane haulers work 14 hours instead of 11, followed by 10 hours off. The order addresses a service disruption at the Marcus Hook, Pennsylvania plant, stemming from a November 21 power outage, which cut regional propane supply. Officials stress this safeguards heating access during the Northeast cold snap, with no shortages yet and ongoing monitoring. Murphy urged residents to visit ready.nj.gov for updates and use NJ211 for warming center info.

This story is

- According to a study, a striking 74% of New Jersey adults have tried at least one AI tool, outpacing the national average. And the younger you are, the more likely AI is stitched into your day: a whopping 92% of residents ages 18 to 24 have used AI, compared with just 54% of those 65 and older. Awareness of marquee tools is high too 81% of New Jerseyans have heard of ChatGPT, and more than half have used it at least once. Nj1015

- Anheuser-Busch announced today they will shut down its iconic brewery in Newark, New Jersey as part of a broader strategy to optimize production. The 75-year-old facility, which is located right across the street from Newark Airport, will close early next year after its sale to the Goodman Group is completed.

The Newark branch produced many popular beverages, including Budweiser and Bud Light.(Onejersey)

- Netanyahu met today with Knesset members of United Torah Judaism and promised them that the conscription law will pass in the Knesset.

- Against the backdrop of tensions with Russia - NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte warns: We must be prepared for a war on the scale that our grandfathers experienced.

- The Senate failed to pass both the GOP and Democratic health care bills. Neither bill reached the 60-vote threshold to break a filibuster ahead of a key Dec. 31st deadline to avoid steep insurance premium hikes for millions of Americans.

- The Powerball jackpot continues to climb, now estimated at $1 billion. The next drawing will take place on Motzei Shabbos.

-PSA Kashrus alert from CRC Hisachdus: A Public Note In the current Chanukah season, when many different types of donuts (both pareve and dairy) are available in stores, it is very common for people to mistakenly buy dairy donuts assuming they’re pareve. Therefore, in order to avoid any confusion, each dairy donut is clearly labeled.Please be careful to check each item before purchasing.

- Giyus updates:

Thousands of frum Yidden in London are demonstrating in front of the Israeli Embassy in protest of the current IDF draft law. The zkan Roshei Yeshivos, Rav Elyakim Shlesinger shlita, called on the community to participate in the gathering.

Netanyahu said, “We will pass the conscription law as soon as possible. There is no alternative. The Torah of Israel is important to me,”

- Bank of Israel comes out against the Conscription Law: It will not bring in enough new soldiers to meet the country’s security needs, nor will it ease the economic burden caused by extensive reserve duty.

- Toms River has approved a settlement with the Fair Share Housing Center that allows 186 new affordable housing units and allocates several million dollars to extend deed restrictions on 518 existing units. The deal satisfies the township’s affordable-housing obligation for the next decade. Mayor Daniel Rodrick called the agreement a major win in efforts to curb overdevelopment.

- Severe flooding from Storm Byron has caused major disruptions across Israel. Dozens of people were rescued, including at least 14 motorists trapped in vehicles in Yavne. In Rishon Lezion, two students were injured when a tree collapsed at a school, and in Netanya, a man was found dead after suffering from severe hypothermia.

- Newly certified final results show that Sherrill won 1,895,286 votes compared to Ciattarelli’s 1,417,141, a more than 478,000-vote lead. She received nearly 57% of the vote statewide.In Lakewood in Ocean County, 90% of all voters cast a ballot for Ciattarelli.

- A question arose regarding the bochurim who are jailed in the IDF military prison during Chanukkah: Where should they light the Menorah in prison?

 Rav Ezriel Auerbach shlita, ruled that if it is not possible to light the candles outside, it is considered a “dangerous place,” and they may light the candles inside their cells. Additionally, Sefardi Bochurim may rely on their father’s lighting at home.

- President Donald Trump sent a personal letter to both Satmar rebbes The Rebbe of Kiryas Yoel, Rav Aharon Teitelbaum, and the Satmar Rebbe of Williamsburg, Rav Zalman Leib Teitelbaum, extending his warm wishes to the community as they marked the annual Chof Alef Kislev celebrations.

- Gas prices have dropped again, with the New Jersey average now around $2.86. The decrease comes just weeks before the January 2026 gas-tax increase, when the state tax is scheduled to rise by 4 cents per gallon.

- Jackson Township residents will once again receive weekly curbside recycling pickup after more than a decade of reduced service, officials announced. The township has reached a new agreement with its recycling contractor to restore weekly collections beginning early next year. Although the deal includes a slight cost increase, officials said it will not require a tax hike.

- Republican state lawmakers are warning of what they call a brewing effort by Democrats to raise New Jersey’s sales tax back to 7%. The current rate is 6.625%, already among the highest in the country, and the revenue goes into the state’s general fund to support the state budget. Some Republicans claim that Democrats, who control state government, are preparing to introduce legislation to increase the tax during the upcoming lame-duck session.

-A key amendment by Rep. Chris Smith (R-NJ) has been added to the FY2026 National Defense Authorization Act, directing the Government Accountability Office (GAO) to investigate whether the U.S. military ever weaponized ticks with Lyme disease. The amendment addresses Cold War-era bioweapons programs and comes amid high Lyme disease rates in New Jersey, including areas around Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst.

- The former home of the Lakewood Mashgiach, Rav Mattiyahu Solomon zt”l, on 6th  sthas been listed on the market for $1,799,000 visible is a photo displayed in his study of the Citi Field Internet Asifa.

- Brick Township has extended its Storefront Revitalization Program, allowing small businesses to again receive fee waivers for renovating vacant commercial properties under 5,000 square feet, as long as there are no outstanding taxes or violations. The program aims to encourage filling empty storefronts rather than building new structures.

- The Lakewood Planning Board meeting has been rescheduled for December 23. Several applications will be reviewed, including:

Spruce St, Vine st/ Washington Ave, Lincoln Ave (Block 836, Lot 1): Minor subdivision to create two lots

Bais Kaila, 183 Spruce St: Preliminary and final major site plan for an addition to the school

Is this Olive Oil Permitted for Use for the Chanukah Menorah?

 by OU Kosher 

see video below of cold pressed olive oil production

 With Chanukah quickly approaching our thoughts turn to olive oil used for the Menorah. Many people are confused with the various types of olive oil and those which can be used to fulfill the Hiddur Mitzvah of lighting with שמן זית. In this article we will attempt to “shed light” on this topic.

Israel News Thurs December 11

Day 797

- Harrowing footage shows 6 hostages lighting Chanukkah candles 8 months before execution

Families of Hersh Goldberg-Polin, Carmel Gat, Eden Yerushalmi, Almog Sarusi, Ori Danino, and Alex Lobanov approve release of videos filmed by Hamas terrorists in Gaza tunnel, intended for propaganda, recovered by IDF

The captives are seen lighting Chanukkah candles fashioned out of paper cups and singing the Hanukkah song “Ma’oz Tzur.”

- The Trump administration plans to appoint an American general to command the International Stabilization Force (ISF), expected to begin deployment in Gaza in January, according to two senior American officials and two senior Israeli officials

- President Donald Trump  said he will announce the members of the Board of Peace overseeing the postwar management of Gaza early next year in 2026, in the latest sign the effort is stalling.

- For the first time Amnesty International accuses Hamas and other Palestinian armed groups for the first time of crimes against humanity during and after the October 7, 2023, attack that sparked the war in Gaza. the human rights watchdog says in a 173-page report.

-  Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan on Al-Jazeera: "There are steps that need to be taken to move to the second phase of the ceasefire agreement. We are waiting to take a few steps, especially the establishment of a peace council, the transfer of aid management to the Palestinians, and the establishment of a police force."

- Israeli officials , warn in Hebrew that allowing Turkish troops into Gaza as part of a U.S.-backed International Stabilization Force would empower Hamas and threaten Israel's security, urging President Trump to reject it outright

- Arab Report:"Israel is in a race against time before moving to the second phase of the ceasefire, by establishing new facts on the ground through blowing up houses and leveling lands, to create a new buffer zone in the Strip." It is claimed that these developments are consistent with the words of IDF Chief of Staff Zamir, who said earlier this week that "the yellow line is the new border line

 - Reuters: The US is considering imposing severe sanctions on UNRWA

According to Reuters, the designation of the organization as an FTO - Foreign Terrorist Organization (like ISIS and Al-Qaeda) is being considered, as well as economic sanctions on UNRWA personnel and the organization as a whole.

-Father Reveals Doctor Killed Captive Soldier Noa Marciano at Shifa Hospital

Avi Marciano described how a Shifa Hospital doctor murdered his 19-year-old daughter Noa by injecting air into her veins, based on a video sent via Telegram after her October 7, 2023 kidnapping from Nachal Oz base. She suffered wounds during an IDF operation nearby, was taken to the hospital, and died there despite her pleas; her body was recovered November 17. The IDF has maintained Hamas killed her at Shifa, citing pathology showing gunshots or a fall, not an airstrike, while her family first accused the doctor publicly in May 2024. Avi calls it his worst nightmare, waking to the video of his eldest daughter.

Oif Simchas Wed 21 Kislev

 Weather low 31° Rain ending this evening. Partial clearing overnight Chance of rain 100%.

Chasunas:

Halperin - Neuman Ne'emas Hachaim 

Stern - Klein Lake Terrace 

Goldberg - Adler Kesser Moshe 

Weisbaum - Silberman Fountain Ballroom 

Lefton  -  Niasof Ateres Blima 

Sonnenschein - Beer Ateres Esther 

- Dayan Rav Ahron Dovid Dunner shlita of London will be speaking this evening as part of the “Hashkafa in the Workplace” series. The event will include a Q&A and will take place at the Torah Links Learning Center, 1301 Central Avenue, Lakewood, at 8:15 p.m.

- Hachana for Chanukah Farbrengen with Rav Yussi Zakutinsky at 33 Shenandoah Dr Lakewood 9:15 pm

- Kavei event at Estreia

- Farbrengen 36 BunkerHill Toms River