Sunday November 8 News Updates Lakewood

 Weather: 60° Sunny skies 

- i24NEWS: Israel was prepared over the weekend for the possibility of Trump ordering strikes against Iran, prompting PM Netanyahu to hold a meeting with senior security officials on Friday. However, President Trump gave Vice President Vance and senior administration officials “several days” to exhaust diplomatic efforts

- The Jewish community in Philadelphia stood up to the Hamas supporters targeting Jewish businesses blocking the so called Palestine bike ride and supported our Jewish businesses. Give officials remained silent. Six Jewish-owned eateries in Center City were the target Sunday of a controversial bike-ride boycott  and a counterprotest that drew hundreds of people to patronize the businesses.

- Trump reveals resuming military operations against Iran is “highly unlikely” if negotiations over its nuclear program make progress.

- President Donald Trump issues a stark warning to Iran "We have 38 bridges in our sights that we can knock down in literally one hour. They'll all be down.I don't want to do that because it'll take 10 years to rebuild them. I don't like ripping down bridges. The hardest thing to build is a bridge. It takes years, and I'm a good builder."

- Trump: America took a giant step back in History with the results of the last Election — Even the Stock Market, which has been a “ROCKETSHIP” under “TRUMP,” took a one day, 3 Trillion Dollar loss. But have no fear, we will be back, BIGGER AND STRONGER THAN EVER BEFORE! President DONALD J. TRUMP

- BDE: Petirah of Rebbetzin Bracha Spiegel A"H Wife of Rav Moshe ZTL Admor Ostrov Kalushin. They moved to Lakewood  from queens and opened the shteible in Pine River Village community in Lakewood. She was 95. The Levaya will take place today 11:0oam at the Lakewood chapel office 7th street. She is survived by her children,Her son Rav Naftoli shlita is rav of the shtieble.

- BDE: Petira of Mrs Chana Murik a”h, wife of R’ Yanky.(nee Rosenberg) she was 26 and lived in the Arlington area. The levaya will take place this afternoon 3:00pm at the  Lakewood Chapel off 7th st She reportedly had a minor infection that rapidly progressed into sepsis R"L.

- Genazym Judaica auction  today including sefer  Noam Elimelech. First Edition. Lvov, 1788. With a starting bud $1.1 million  Here

- Hachnosas Sefer Torah at B"M Khal Mihalovitz procession leaving  at 4pm from 39 Blossom drive Lakewood to the BM at 614 Ocean Ave.

- Moishas in Howell open today 

- James street traffic after truck flips over near  Williams st and Rt 9.

- A planned bicycle boycott in Philadelphia is drawing sharp criticism from Jewish organizations and local and state officials. The ride scheduled for Sunday in Center City targets several Jewish- and Israeli-owned businesses, according to a promotional flyer on social media. The ride is expected to start at noon in Rittenhouse Square. Organizers say they plan to draw attention to businesses they say have ties to Israel.

- Israeli elections 

Eisenkot receives  mamdat  to form a coalition  will meet today with Bennet and tomorrow  with Liberman.

- Responding to criticism Avigdor Liberman Defends Recruitment Compromise he said willingness to compromise on ultra-Orthodox military recruitment does not mean abandoning his principles. He ruled out a government dependent on Ra’am or the Joint List and said the 2018 recruitment bill drafted by the IDF and defense establishment remains a suitable basis for agreement.

- Zoning board meeting tomorrow 

- Lakewood Township MUA: 8 Four Seasons Drive – Install a 100-foot lattice communications tower; height variance required.

- River Avenue and James Street – Construct two duplex buildings.

- 1763 Lanes Mill Road – Minor subdivision to create four lots and construct two duplex buildings.

- Kennedy Boulevard – Use variance to construct a duplex.

- Westmount Group, LLC: 270 Albert Avenue – Use variance to operate a used-car lot and sales office.

- SGS Development: Chestnut Street – Use variance to develop duplexes under R-10 zoning standards.

- Congregation Bais Medrash Kerem Shlomo: 712 New Hampshire Avenue – Construct a yeshiva with second-floor dormitory rooms and a basement dining hall.

- Cranbury, New Jersey Mayor Lisa Knierim says the township was the victim of a financial theft involving a $26 million wire transfer of funds designated for the purchase of property to meet the township's affordable housing obligations.

Knierim said the theft occurred September 28, but did not provide details, other than describing it as a "sophisticated financial theft."This information was first disclosed after the elections.

- Israel election analysis can The left form a government: by Amit Segal

This evening President Isaac Herzog will hand Yashar chairman Gadi Eisenkot the ball. Now all he needs is a team.

With the support of his own Yashar, Naftali Bennett’s Beyachad, Yair Golan’s Democrats, Avigdor Lieberman’s Yisrael Beytenu and the two Arab parties, Ra’am and the Joint List, Eisenkot received a comfortable 67 recommendations to form a government compared to Benjamin Netanyahu’s measly 46.

Eisenkot’s problem is that not all his potential teammates want to play together.

The general-turned-captain’s game plan is to stitch the 19 Arab seats to the 48 change bloc votes. With the eight seats of the more moderate Ra’am offering active support while the hard-line anti-Zionist Joint List sits on its hands, the minority government can easily overpower the 53 seats in Bibi’s bloc that would vote against. The plan has backing on Eisenkot’s left. Democrats chairman Yair Golan has publicly called an Arab party’s place in government “natural, right, appropriate.”

Meanwhile, on his right flank, Avigdor Lieberman has his own dream team. In a maneuver that surprised both Eisenkot and his own voters, Lieberman has become the champion of bringing the 13 ultra-Orthodox seats over from the coalition. The man who proposed stripping ultra-Orthodox draft evaders of the vote would now rather count on their votes than sit with Arab parties. United Torah Judaism has already paid a down payment by depriving Bibi of thier recommendations to form a government. Whether out of security consciousness or the electoral tastes of his base, Liberman would rather swallow the Haredi flavor of anti-Zionism than the Arab variety. Eisenkot disagrees. He campaigned on three promises: no Arabs, no Haredim, no Bibi. He would like to break them in that order.

Golan has extended a more tentative hand to Lieberman’s idea. Of the three promises, the only one he cares about keeping is the last.

But one cannot forget the most important player on the field: Naftali Bennett. His 12 seats are indispensable to any lineup, but so far has refrained from endorsing any option. The candidate who pledged a coalition of “those who serve” has little to gain from an minority government albatross whether Arab or Haredi.

Bennett is still suffering the aftershocks of his last Arab-reliant government, and replacing Ra’am leader Mansour Abbas with United Torah Judaism MK Meir Porush is unlikely to fix the problem.

In the long term, Bennett’s future doesn’t lie in the Never Bibi camp. He would much rather find a path back to his old homeland on the right in time to be there when the current king’s age finally catches up to him. A unity government offers that possibility. But Bennett has his own troublesome players, mainly his deputy, Yair Lapid, whose six Beyachad seats would not easily fall in line behind a unity government.

Bennett’s silence is menacing to both Lieberman and Eisenkot. If Israel goes to another election, their revealed preferences leave them badly exposed to being outflanked by the only player who kept his concealed.

Eisenkot has 28 days, with a possible extra 14, to convince Lieberman that he will be more comfortable in Umm al-Fahm than Bnei Brak, Bennett that he’d prefer an electoral future in Tel Aviv rather than Jerusalem, and the country in general that 19-48 is the way forward.

If he fails, Bibi will likely get 28 days to try his hand. If he also fails, the Knesset gets a 21-day window in which 61 MKs can sign a petition asking the president to task a specific member. That person gets 14 days. If nothing works, Israel goes back to the polls.

But don’t take that schedule as scripture. Dropping the ball in the first round doesn’t mean Eisenkot can’t pick it up in the next, and at any point along the way, he or Bibi might extend a hand toward unity.

A lot can happen in the next 100-odd days.

Game on.

The annual photo

Motzei Shabbos Chayei Sarah News Updates Lakewood

Weather: low 44° A few passing clouds.

- Melava Malka Passaic Yeshiva Alumni gathering at Ne'emas Hachaim 

- Bingo open until 12am

- Ohel Pessil shidduch melava malka event postponed for next motzei shabbos.

- Daf Yomi today Bechoros 50 mentions the patsha this week discussion about purchase of meoras Hamachpelah from Efron by Avrohom Avinu.

- Torah Umesorah convention motzei shabbos session livestream HERE 

-BDE: Petirah of Rav Issamar Schwartz ZTL of Yerushalayim mechaber of seforim  'בלבבי משכן אבנה, after suffering a strokeast week, he was 50 years old.   

- Yashar party chairman Gadi Eisenkot will be granted the mandate to form a coalition, President Isaac Herzog announced.

- Netanyahu calls for unity government in first since election, warns of 'coalitions with Islamists.

- Shiva for Mrs Miriam Weiss A"H is at 197 Coles Way at Lakewood commons.

-President Trump said Israel would no longer exist had he allowed Iran to acquire nuclear weapons, crediting U.S. strikes with preventing that outcome. Speaking at the Kennedy Space Center in Florida, Trump said Israel “would have been wiped off the face of the earth.”

- Abdul El-Sayed declares “Michigan is the capital of Arab America.”

President Trump has been advised to act within eight weeks if he intends to launch a new military campaign against Iran, NBC News reports, citing administration and defense sources. The reported timeline centers on acting before the incoming Democratic-controlled Congress takes office in January—making Washington’s political calendar a factor in the decision over renewed military action.

- Report  Avigdor Lieberman team conducted talks with senior cbaredi figures over the past few months, for several months, even during the election campaign. The plan: Avigdor Lieberman as the next prime minister in exchange for an immediate freeze on arrests and an exemption law with no sanctions. The party denies the report while the journalists stands by his story.

- In a Friday court filing, the state of New Jersey said the U.S. Department of Homeland Security confirmed it is moving forward with its controversial plan to convert a local warehouse into an ICE detention 

-Trump: The threats being made by the Democrat Party against innocent Republican Donors and Party Members are absolutely unprecedented, and totally illegal. Please report them to the Department of Justice, IMMEDIATELY! If you would like, send them directly to me, your President. These SLEAZEBAGS should go to jail for what they are doing. The Senate must act, and stop being pushed around to the point of the Republican Party losing Elections, and worse! Likewise, the DOJ and House of Representatives. Thank you for your attention to this matter. President DONALD J. TRUMP

-Shas party issued a forceful denial on Motzoei Shabbos of reports suggesting that the party could join or support a government headed by Gadi Eisenkot, dismissing the claims as “complete fake news” and declaring that it remains firmly committed to the right-wing bloc in accordance with the directives of its Moetzes Chachmei HaTorah.

- Trump offers UfC President Dana White, position of press secretary, White says he is flying to Washington D.C. right now for a Monday meeting, noting he already has a lot of jobs and will have more to say after the meeting

Lakewood Zmanim עש"ק פרשת חיי שרה תשפ"ז מברכים חודש כסלו

 אִם אֵין בָּנוּ מַעֲשִׂים זָכְרָה יְשֵׁנֵי חֶבְרון. וְהֵם יַעֲלוּ לְזִכָּרון

Friday, November 6, 2026 /כ״ו חשון תשפ״ז

ערב שבת פרשת חיי שרה מברכים חודש כסלו

-Candle lighting 4:30 pm

-Shkiah/Sunset 4:48 pm

-Rosh Chodesh Kislev is  Tuesday Wednesday 

Molad:   Monday evening, 27 minutes and 3 chalakim after 10:00 pm

Weather Shabbos day  61 Partly cloudy skies

מהמגיד הירושלמי רבי מרדכי דרוק זצ"ל בת ק' כבת כ' - הכוונה היא לפרק כ' ופרק ק' בתהילים כאשר יהודי נקלע לצרה - הוא פותח תהילים בפרק כ', ובוכה בפסוקי "יענך ה' ביום צרה"...אבל כמה יהודים זוכרים לפתוח גם את פרק ק' בתהלים ולומר "מזמור לתודה" בת ק' כבת כ'

Friday November 6 News Updates Lakewood

Friday, November 6, 2026 / כ״ו חשון תשפ״ז ערב שבת פרשת חיי שרה

Candle lighting 4:30 pm

Shkiah/sunset  4:48 pm

Sof Zman Krias shema shabbos morning Gr"a 9:06 am 

Rosh Chodesh Kislev is Tuesday and Wednesday

Molad:   Monday evening, 27 minutes and 3 chalakim after 10:00 pm

Weather today : Thunderstorms during the morning will give way to steady rain this afternoon. High 67F. Chance of rain 90%. Localized flooding is possible. tonight clear low 49

Shabbos day  61 Partly cloudy skies

Flash Flood Warning remains in place until 11 am. Flooding was still ongoing across portions of Monmouth County, as well as northern Ocean County. The heaviest rains have moved out, but more than 3.00 inches fell earlier this morning.

Welcome home bochurim off shabbos for mesivtos 

- Trump: I am pleased to announce that Mr. Stephen Miller, the current Deputy Chief of Staff of the Trump Administration, and one of my most trusted advisors, will become the Chief of Staff starting Monday, November 9, 2026. Susie Wiles, who has done an outstanding job, will be moving over to the Trump Political Operation. I want to thank her for her service as Chief of Staff — She has done a great job! President DONALD J. TRUMP

- Trump has replaced Susie Wiles with Stephen Miller as White House Chief of Staff. 

- Trump: Israel and, in fact, the entire Middle East, WOULD NOT EXIST TODAY if I did not stop Iran from having a Nuclear Weapon. Nobody wants to say that, but everybody knows it’s true! President DONALD J. TRUMP

- BDE: Petirah of Mrs. Miriam Weiss A"H of Lakewood following an illness she was in her 30's.Husband is R Avi. Levaya at the  chapel erev shabbos. 

- Heavy traffic and accidents around Lakewood due to the weather . Accident at Hope chapel and Miller rd backing up traffic.

- ICE activity today in Lakewood onb2nd street making arrests.

- Moishas in Howell open today until 2 hours before the zman 

- Shabbos Chevron thousands gather to spend shabbos Chayei Sarah in the city of Chevron

- Chabad kinus Hashluchim going in this shabbos in crown heights.

- Black Friday deals at Bingo  store will be open motzei shabbos 

- Mock wedding day at local playgroups and kindergartens erev shabbos chayei Sara for Yitzchok and Rivka

- Flooding on Lakewood roadways due to the storm and clogged drains. Several schools in the Newport area canceled for the day due to flooded and closed roads 

-Avigdor Lieberman officially announces: We will compromise on the conscription law and form a government with the ultra-Orthodox parties.

- Torah Umesorah shabbos convention in Pennsylvania 

- At last night's township committee meeting the members all congratulated each other on winning reelection with no other statements or mentions about the 9000 votes for Moishe Raitzik 

- Tefillos for the gerrer rebbe and Vizhnitzer rebbe   יעקב אריה בן יוטא   ישראל בן לאה אסתר

- LPD Weather Alert: Flash Flooding Warning through 11AM - Radar shows heavy showers & thunderstorms moving SW to NE over the area. Estimated 2.5-3" has fallen, raising flash flood concerns. Creeks and streams will quickly rise out of their banks. Any low lying areas will remain flooded. Activity will continue through the day as additional energy pushes in from the south. Thunderstorms will become less likely after 2pm as the strongest energy slides east. Moderate showers are expected into the evening hours. Conditions dry out from 8-11pm. An additional inch of rainfall is expected. Stay safe!

- A controversial proposal to construct a towering 100-foot communications structure in the heart of a Lakewood  four seasons residential neighborhood is facing organized opposition, as residents have retained prominent attorney Jan Meyer to represent them before the Lakewood Township Zoning Board of Adjustment. faanews

-Israel elections

 Eisenkot reveals his cards: A minority government with 48 seats, supported externally by the Arab parties, and possibly with United Torah Judaism abstaining. Segal

-Amit Segal: The political reality you won’t hear about in the media: Lieberman has torpedoed the minority government that Gadi was planning before Gadi even received the mandate to form a government. Lieberman’s new demand: 61 Knesset members, without the Arab parties, but including United Torah Judaism and Shas every single one of their MKs. Bennett, who ran on the promise of an “Alliance of Those Who Serve,” has remained silent and has not agreed to this arrangement. He is not expected to agree, either. One thing is already clear: There is no “Alliance of Those Who Serve”  only those who serve.

- Amit Segal In effect, two competing government scenarios are currently taking shape: Eisenkot wants to quickly swear in a 48-seat minority government with the support of the Arab parties. Lieberman wants a rotation government bringing together the pro-change bloc and the ultra-Orthodox parties. There is a covert rivalry between the two

- Urgent White House meetings over the past two days focused on potentially resuming strikes against Iran, Fox News reports, citing senior U.S. officials. CENTCOM is reportedly finalizing preparations for a possible operation. The report points to active military planning but does not establish that Trump has issued an order to strike.

U.S. economy delivers a major jobs surprise, adding 165,000 jobs in October and crushing economists' expectations.

Oif Simchas Thurs 26 Cheshvan

Chasunas:

Krupenia - Sorotzkin Kesser Moshe Yehuda 

Cagan - Belsky Cedar Palace 

Papelow - Auerbach Fountain Ballroom 

Lauer - Bulman Ateres Blima 

Gabay  - Danan Ateres Esther 

Perr  - Rockowsky Neemas Hachaim 

Kohn - Milstein Ateres Reva

Kahn - Willig Bais Faiga

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

Weather tonight Thunderstorms likely. Low 63F. Chance of rain 80%. Locally heavy rainfall possible.

Thursday November 5 News Updates Lakewood

Weather 75 A few showers early, then clouds lingering for the afternoon. WarmChance of rain 50%. Tonight  low 62 Rain showers early then thundershowers overnight. . Chance of rain 90%. Locally heavy rainfall is possible

- U.S. Military Preparing for Possible Resumption of Major Combat Operations Against Iran, Axios Reports. American officials say the U.S. military is completing preparations for a potential return to large-scale combat operations, including deploying additional military assets to the region.

- Off shabbos for Mesivta Bochurim

- Trump: The Stock Market crashed today because the Dumocrats had a big Tuesday — So sad to see, you only have yourselves to blame! President DONALD J. TRUMP

- Trump: “I JUST WASN’T ON THE BALLOT. IF I WERE, WE WOULD HAVE WON IN A LANDSLIDE! President DONALD J. TRUMP”

- Democrat Governor of New Mexico opts in to the Federal Scholarship Tax Credit, opening the door to education opportunity for New Mexico families. Mo word about NJ.

- Moishas in Howell open tonight until 12:00am Salmon special $8.99, Tatsters Choice coffee $15.99,Oil $5.99 tomorrow open until 2 hrs before the zman.

- Trump: It doesn't matter which proposal Iran is considering or not - it will not have nuclear weapons.

- Trump could still authorize strikes against Iran, U.S. sources tell i24NEWS. One option is a limited operation focused on nuclear sites, including Pickaxe Mountain, rather than a broader campaign targeting energy infrastructure. Regional diplomats told i24NEWS that Qatar has renewed efforts to broker a U.S.–Iran agreement. The message to Tehran: offer Trump “something” on the nuclear issue to make a deal possible.

- Reports of Major vehicle activity near the White House’s West Wing and say Joint Chiefs Chairman Gen. Dan Caine was seen departing. Trump’s public schedule listed an intelligence briefing for 11 a.m. Eastern

- Consultations at the President's Residence are over: factions totaling 67 MKs recommended Gadi Eisenkot, while 46 backed Netanyahu. Herzog says the result looks clear "at first glance," but mutual boycotts between and within the blocs leave it uncertain who can actually form a government. He'll hold personal talks with party leaders and hand out the mandate on Sunday.

-California Gov. Gavin Newsom has reduced the sentences of all 548 death row inmates to life in prison without parole.

- Satmar rebbe Rav Zalman Leib to visit the new Lakefront community in Okochobee Florida for a kvias Mezzuzah at the home of a chosid.

- Adirei HaTorah Annual event reportedly to take place this year before Pesach due to scheduling of sporting venues and the Siyum Hashas which is a week before Shavuos. The venue has not been announced yet possibly in a new location than previously.

- Avigdor Lieberman Lifts His Veto on the Ultra-Orthodox Parties The Change Bloc is moving forward with forming a government that includes United Torah Judaism, based on a lenient military conscription law. Amit Segal

- Moishes Supermarket in Howell has a soft opening today.

- The Dow has tanked  -1,600+ points, and the NASDAQ is down -1,300+ points as fear sweeps Wall Street over Democrats taking control of Congress. $2 trillion has been wiped out of the U.S. stock market.

- Bingo will be open motzei shabbos from one hour after the zman until 12am.

- Kinus Hashluchin underway in crown heights this weekend  with the grand event at the expo center in New Jersey 

- Lakewood,New Jersey votes:

2024: Trump +76.4 

2025: Ciattarelli +80.8 

2026: Booker +14.9

- U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio is reportedly considering resigning from his position in order to launch his 2028 presidential campaign.

- Noribar Sushi will open this coming Monday in Lakewood at the corner Chestnut and Rt 9 per Feder status.

- Updated Lakewood Results: Raymond Coles (D) received 15,487 (35.02%),  Deborah Fuentes (R) with 14,926 (33.75%). Moshe B. Raitzik (R) received 9,379 (21.21%), Samantha L. Stokes (D)  4,003 (9.05%), and write-in candidates received 434 (0.98%). A total of 44,229 votes were cast.

- Toms River could get charged $20,000 a day for 30 days for failing to turn over laptops and phones involved in a lawsuit involving Orthodox shuls

- El Al Israel Airlines reported record third-quarter revenue of approximately $1.27 billion on Thursday, an 18.2% increase from the same period last year,

- Israir in talks to acquire Arkia airlines 

- A lottery player who bought a Powerball ticket  at a Wegmans in Montvale New Jersey won Wednesday night’s massive $847 million jackpot. The ticket, has a cash option worth $363.1 million and was the only ticket sold across the country to match five numbers plus the Powerball.  winning numbers were: 15, 34, 41, 53 and 56. The Powerball number 21 

- Vaad Harabonim of Jackson issue statement congratulating mayor elect Elliott Shem Tov and look forward to working with his team. The vaad supported incumbent mayor Kuhn as hakoras haTov.

- Lakewood township commitee meeting tonight 5:30 pm  watch livestream Here see agenda Here 

- On the agenda street vacations  Portions Of Streets Known As Trudy Lane And Nussbaum off Prospect street and  private sales of small township lots off Carey Street and N Monterey 

- Over 728 flights delayed, 55 canceled amid widespread U.S. travel disruptions

Rain and low clouds may cause delays in New York (JFK, LGA, EWR), Philadelphia (PHL), Washington, D.C. (DCA, BWI, IAD), Atlanta (ATL) and Seattle (SEA), according to the Federal Aviation Administration

- Israel elections 

The  Arab Joint List  recommends  Gadi Eisenkot to President Isaac Herzog as the next prime minister. Eisenkot already had the backing of more Knesset members than Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, but now he will receive nods from 67 MKs in the next Knesset, This does not, however, mean that those parties backing him will ultimately join his coalition. 

- Rabbi Moshe Maya, a senior member of Shas’s ruling Council of Torah Sages, urges Yashar chairman Gadi Eisenkot to join Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in a rotation government, with Haredi parties joining the coalition.

- Moti Leitner, chairman of the Charedi Public Party, said in his first interview since the elections: “Tens of thousands of Charedim believe in our path. They were concerned about the future of the right-wing bloc, so they did not vote for us. But they are out there, and we will continue fighting for them. In the upcoming municipal elections, our representatives will run in every Charedi city. The public expressed its protest against the established parties, with more than 70,000 people voting for non-Charedi parties.”

- Texas Senator Ted Cruz one of Israel's strongest allies in the Senate, now says the Iran war "has dragged on too long. It should have been brief, decisive, and over. It needs to end".

- Daily mail reporter White House source tells me that contrary to reports, JD Vance did not work with White House officials to draft his X post yesterday, it was more like an “FYI I’m sending this” and he did it without asking for feedback or permission.

- Reporter: Are you considering running for president in 2028?  DESANTIS: "I'll be a free man come Jan. 5th. I haven't planned anything...but last night should be a wakeup call for our party. We got blasted into oblivion. Florida is the last one standing.

- Trump is standing by Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth following Republicans’ midterm losses. According to ABC News, Trump dismissed the prospect of replacing him, saying he is “doing a great job.” The endorsement comes as Democrats prepare to scrutinize

Oif Simchas Wed 25 Cheshvan

Guzik - Galinsky  Fountain Ballroom

Langer - Rosenbaum Neemas Hachaim

Trenk - Klahr Bais Faiga

Compton - Fine Ateres Chaim Elazar 

Sherman - Hirsch Kesser Moshe Yehuda 

Bloch  - Podolsky Ateres Esther 

Wednesday November 4 News Updates Lakewood

Weather: 74° Sunny. Warm tomorrow night there's rain in the forecast.

- Trump: Too bad the Senate has not yet approved the Sunshine Protection Act or, the I Don’t Want to Change My Clocks Anymore Act. It’s so dark outside, so early (Sunset was 5:06 P.M., and it was dark by 5:31 P.M. — Isn’t that ridiculous?). Just a few days ago it was so nice and sunny at this same time. In addition, everyone’s been running around changing their clocks all over the place. I didn’t want to make a big deal out of this prior to the Election because I didn’t want to have certain Senators lose their Race, in a landslide, but it is too bad they can’t get it done. The House sent it over to the Senate with great bipartisan support, numerous times (308-117), but the Senate didn’t take it up. We have far bigger priorities, but I will keep fighting for this! President DONALD J. TRUMP

According to an exclusive Fox News Digital report, JD Vance is already positioning himself for 2028 by seeking an alliance with disaffected Trump voters and the so-called “New Right,” with changing America's relationship with Israel as part of his political strategy. The report reveals that White House officials met Wednesday morning to coordinate the administration's messaging following the disastrous midterm elections. Yet shortly afterward, Vance published a lengthy post blaming the war with Iran for the GOP's defeat.

A White House official told Fox News that Vance is appealing to Republicans who feel betrayed by Trump's foreign policy, with the message, "Vance is our guy.”

- Bingo black Friday sale begins today in furniture and appliances

- El-Sayed has welcomed Trump's announcement for ending $4 billion in annual military aid to Israel, but he pressed further and called for an end to weapons sales too.

- Sanz Klausenberg rebbe visits his kerala in Lakewood today.

- Shas is expected to recommend Benjamin Netanyahu to form the next government. United Torah Judaism (UTJ), however, is reportedly planning not to recommend either Netanyahu or Gadi Eisenkot on instructions from Rav Dov Lando. Some UTJ MKs representing Belz and other Chassidic factions may nevertheless recommend Netanyahu independently.

Meanwhile, Shas leader Aryeh Deri will remain at the helm of the party after the rabbinic leadership issued a letter instructing him not to step down. However, he may choose not to serve as an active member of the Knesset.

- Vice President JD Vance explains why Republicans lost: “Trump voters came out to the polls in droves, but voted for the opposing candidate. The main reasons for their anger were the war with Iran, inflation, and relations with Israel. Anyone who tells you we lost for other reasons is lying.”Vance called the Iran war the central reason for the losses, warning Republicans against blaming other issues or ignoring the message voters sent.

- Ben Shapiro says Ron DeSantis is likely to run for president in 2028, while Marco Rubio is unlikely to enter the race. Kalshi's prediction markets show JD Vance at 27%, Rubio at 25%, and DeSantis at 19%, following a 7-point overnight jump.

- Rep. Byron Donalds says Republicans missed key opportunities by failing to pass the SAVE America Act and codify President Trump's border security measures into law. He argues that the failure to deliver on these priorities frustrated Republican voters and contributed to the midterm losses.

- Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis on the GOP's devastating midterm losses across the country,  "This is close to an extinction level event for Republicans." "In January, when everyone in office leaves, who were either term limited or got voted out of the ten largest states in this union, only one state will have Republican control of their state, the state of Florida."

- Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis sounds the alarm that Democrats' 55+ seat Senate victory means there is ZERO CHANCE Supreme Court Justices Clarence Thomas (78) or Sam Alito (76) can get realistically confirmed replacements if there's a vacancy...until 2033.

- House Speaker Mike Johnson will reportedly not run for House Minority Leader following Republicans' defeat in the midterm elections.

- Lakewood Voter  turnout: According to the district-by-district results, 22,556 out of 66,776 registered voters in Lakewood cast ballots, representing approximately 33.8% turnout. That means roughly 44,220 registered voters, or 66.2%, did not vote. In other words, only about one-third of Lakewood's registered voters participated in the election.

Lakewood numbers

In the election, Democrat Raymond Coles received the most votes with 14,757 (34.69%), followed by Republican Deborah Fuentes with 14,234 (33.46%). Republican Moshe B. Raitzik received 9,170 (21.56%), Democrat Samantha L. Stokes received 3,958 (9.30%), and write-in candidates received 423 (0.99%). A total of 42,542 votes were cast.

According to the 47 Lakewood district results, Cory Booker received 11,918 votes (56.1%), compared with 9,057 votes (42.6%) for Republican Justin Murphy.The remaining votes went to independent candidates Veronica Fernandez (130) and Joanne Kuniansky (65), along with 86 write-in votes. Total ballots cast: 21,256. Booker won Lakewood by 2,861 votes, a margin of approximately 13.5 percentage points.

In Lakewood, District 8 Lakewood middle school gave Cory Booker the most votes by number, with 498 votes (61.79%), while District 27 BMG Herzka building  had his highest percentage at 72.60%, with 159 votes. For Republican Justin Murphy, District 15 New Hampshire fire house gave him the most votes by number, with 319 (58.86%), while District 31 Four seasons appears to have given him the highest percentage, with 347 votes (60.98%).

Lakewood Mayor stats

According to the Lakewood district results, Raymond Coles received his highest vote total in District 8 Lakewood middle school, with 635 votes (38.60%). District 12 westgate was next, with 603 votes (37.27%). Moshe Raitzik received his highest vote total in District 12 Westgate, with 401 votes (24.78%), while District 15  New Hampshire firehouse gave him his highest percentage, at 30.82% (327 votes).

Lakewood District 27 BMG Herzka building strongly favored Republican Deborah Fuentes in the local race:

- Deborah Fuentes (R): 202 votes (44.30%)

- Raymond Coles (D): 160 votes (35.09%)

- Moshe Raitzik (R): 74 votes (16.23%)

- Samantha Stokes (D): 11 votes (2.41%)

- Jackson voter turnout: According to the district-by-district results, 23,413 out of 42,533 registered voters in Jackson cast ballots, representing approximately 55.0% turnout. That means about 19,120 registered voters, or 45.0%, did not vote. More than half of Jackson's registered voters participated in the election.

- Jackson: In the Jackson election, Elliott Shem-Tov received the most votes with 10,625 (47.48%), followed by Jennifer Kuhn with 8,816 (39.39%) and Brandon A. Rose with 2,868 (12.82%). Write-in candidates received 70 votes (0.31%). A total of 22,379 votes were cast.

In the Jackson Township Council race, Christopher Pollak received the most votes with 12,157 (28.42%), followed by Amanda Trombetta with 10,397 (24.31%), John “Pojo” Pejoski with 8,176 (19.12%), and Brian McCarron with 8,136 (19.02%). Casey V. Jackson received 1,919 votes (4.49%), Paul G. Sarti received 1,883 (4.40%), and write-in candidates received 103 votes (0.24%). A total of 42,771 votes were cast.

- Toms River: 31,262 out of 72,778 registered voters in Toms River cast ballots, representing approximately 43.0% turnout. That means about 41,516 registered voters, or 57.0%, did not vote.

- President Isaac Herzog received the official results of Israel's election from Central Elections Committee chairman Justice Noam Sohlberg on Wednesday, ahead of consultations with the parties on who should form the next government. Sohlberg warned that casting doubt on the election results poses a "real danger" to democracy. He said the allegations under investigation remain suspicions and that even if confirmed, their possible impact would be limited. Herzog said he would now begin consultations on assigning a Knesset member the task of forming a government. No mandate has been announced.

- WHITE HOUSE "PSA: TRUMP IS STILL YOUR PRESIDENT," "Thank you for your attention to this matter."

- US presidents have faced major midterm setbacks throughout history.

Obama (2010): Democrats lost 63 House seats.

Clinton (1994): Democrats lost 54 House seats.

Trump (2018): Republicans lost 40 House seats.

- Nurses held a rally this morning in front of Kimball hospita in Lakewood demanding better wages and work improvements.

- Reporter: Did the war with Iran hurt Republicans in Tuesday's elections? President Trump says that's probably true.

The president acknowledges that higher gas prices may have played a role in the party's losses after a reporter brings up Vice President JD Vance's assessment from his post earlier today on X. But Trump isn't backing away from the decision: "If I had it to do again, I'd have to do it again, because long term it's the only answer. You can't let Iran have a nuclear weapon

 APP: Two years after delivering commanding margins for Donald Trump, the Jersey Shore cracked open on Tuesday, as a surging Democratic midterm wave flipped Monmouth County’s government for the first time in nearly two decades and sharply eroded Republican dominance in neighboring Ocean County.

Election Results Midterms 2026

Ocean county live results Here

- 9pm Decision Desk HQ projects that the Democrats win the House of Representatives

NYT 95% Democrats gain control of the senate

Fox calls it Democrats to gain control of the senate 

 

- Democrats now hold 54 seats in the senate a d 241 seats in congress. Seven Senate seats flipped from Republican to Democrat. Texas. Kansas. Iowa. Ohio. Maine. North Carolina. South Carolina.

- There will now be 10 frum orthodox Jews at the state house in Albany New York 2 more wins in Brooklyn.

- "Free, free Palestine!"Supporters of Senator-elect Abdul El-Sayed break into spontaneous chants outside his victory party, turning an early morning election celebration into a pro-Palestinian demonstration. 

- Democrat Abdul El-Sayed has won the U.S. Senate seat in Michigan, beating Republican Mike Rogers, per the AP. He'll be the first Muslim senator in American history.

- David Friedman, the U.S. Ambassador to Israel during Trump’s first term, responds to the U.S. election results: "We can’t sugarcoat reality: Jew-hatred has become a powerful political movement in the United States. This isn’t a matter of Republicans or Democrats, but a movement that crosses party lines, and unprincipled candidates are exploiting it to win votes.

- Kayleigh McEnany Former WH press secretary Tonight, socialist candidates - previously unthinkable near the levers of powers were empowered. They have professed views such as seizing private businesses and abolishing private insurance. One candidate couldn't say whether Cuba was a dictatorship, and another said she used the American flag as a napkin. Republicans MUST learn to make the case against socialism.  Tonight, they did not.  

- Trump congratulates Democrats on their election victories  "They did a good job"

- Decision Desk can project that Democrat Troy Jackson will defeat Republican Sen. Susan Collins in Maine. The state has backed Democrats in every presidential election since 1992, but voters also elected Republican Susan Collins to five consecutive Senate terms. That record ends tonight

- Trump blames Iran war for crushing Republican midterm defeat. President acknowledges Iran conflict and soaring fuel prices contributed to Republicans' crushing defeat but insists he would launch the war again; 

- Democratic Senator Cory Booker has won in Lakewood with 56% of the total vote.(onejersey)

- Faanews: Jackson Township voters have spoken and they have spoken loudly, clearly, and decisively! In a stunning Election Day repudiation of Jackson's political establishment, voters rejected incumbent Mayor Jennifer Kuhn and the Council candidates running alongside her, handing a sweeping victory to the rival “Fight for Jackson” team. With all 34 of Jackson's 34 election districts reporting, Elliott Shem-Tov defeated Kuhn by more than 1,800 votes, while Councilman Christopher Pollak and Amanda Trombetta captured both available Township Council seats. The results represent a major political setback for the establishment-backed “Standing Up for Jackson” team and an especially uncomfortable Election Night for Council President Mordy Burnstein.

- The Fox News Decision Desk projects the GOP suffered major losses across four critical voter groups: Hispanic voters, young voters, independents, and rural Americans — a coalition collapse that fueled upsets few saw coming. And top Democrats are already signaling they plan to launch sweeping investigations targeting Trump and his administration

- Trump posts a red cap with the word VETO

- Trump: "If Greg Abbott, the Governor of Texas, hadn’t become a RINO in the last six months of his Political Life, he wouldn’t have lost. He went back to his original formula, and it wasn’t pretty! President DONALD J. TRUMP

- Josh Turek has flipped the Iowa senate seat defeating Ashley Hinson. Dems are now at 51 in the senate.

-President Donald Trump told the New York Times that he would accept the results of the midterm elections and was prepared to work with Democrats.

- U.S. Rep. Mike Lawler NY17 (R)  conceded in #NY17 to Cait Conley (D).“I am exceptionally proud of my record," Lawler said. “Despite the election results tonight, I am extremely grateful for the opportunity to have served in this capacity.

Monsey: Joe Rand appears to defeat Republican Bill Weber in the New York State Senate race

- Democrat Gina Hinojosa will defeat Gov. Greg Abbott in the Texas gubernatorial race, ending his 12-year run

- Hakeem Jeffries, the current House Minority Leader from New York, is poised to become Speaker of the house when dems take control 

- Trump reacts to midterm results 

"I wasn’t on the Ballot and if I was, we would have won IN A LANDSLIDE! Thank you for your attention to this matter. President DONALD J. TRUMP"

- The blame game is already underway inside Trump’s administration. According to The Wall Street Journal, White House sources and Trump allies say the Iran war contributed to Republicans’ sweeping election losses—and argue the outcome would have been very different had it ended months ago. 

- Another Dem senate flip Decision Desk HQ projects James Talarico wins the TX US Senate General Election

- All stock futures plunge across the board as a Democratic blue wave takes shape in the midterm elections.

- Jeff Van Drew has called Zack Mullock to concede.

- Low voter turnout in Lakewood Raitzik receives 401 votes in District 12 Wetgate Coles 603, Fuentes 571 votes.

- Senate flip: NBC just called SC for Annie Andrews (D) against Darline Graham who tool over for her brother Lindsey Graham

- Tom Kean, Jr. has called Rebecca Bennett to concede in NJ-7.

- Lakewood Coles and Fuentes get over 14,000 each Raitzik with 9000 votes. BOE write in over 8500.

- Polymarket projects Abdul El-Sayed has won Michigan's Senate race, becoming the first Muslim elected to the U.S. Senate — 99% chance.

- Democrats sweep in Monmouth County, win two county commissioners and a surrogate.

- Polymarket projects James Talarico has flipped Texas's U.S. Senate seat, becoming the first Democrat to win a Senate race in the state since 1988  99% chance.

- NY17  Mike Lawler VS Conley: consent order means no winner determined tonight. Ballots will be transported to secure location and counting likely to begin early Wednesday.

- Manchester  Joseph Hankins wins mayoral race

- Jackson Mayor race Elliott Shem Tov defeats Jennifer Kuhn. In council race  Chris Pollak and Amanda Trombetta win by a few thousand votes 

- Democrat Rebecca Bennett has been elected to Congress from New Jersey's 5th district, unseating two-term Republican Tom Kean, Jr.

- Democrat Kathy Hochul wins reelection for governor of New York, according to DDHQ projection.

- The Fox News Decision Desk projects that Republican Rep. Andy Barr will be the next senator from Kentucky, defeating Democrat Charles Booker. Barr will fill the seat left by former Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell.

- According to an NBC News report, people close to President Trump say he is preparing for a potentially difficult election night for Republicans. The report suggests that Trump’s inner circle is bracing for potentially significant GOP losses as the midterm results come in, with control of Congress at stake.

- Jackson mayor close race Eliot Shemtov leading Jennifer Kuhn by 2%. Chris Pollak leading in council race.

- Democrat Roy Cooper projected winner of North Carolina's U.S. Senate seat, flipping it blue

- Lakewood Mayor Ray Coles wins seat, Debbie Fuentes holds seat.

Lakewood fire District Dovid Bender and Harrison Pfeffer win commissioner 

- Decision Desk HQ projects Byron Donalds wins the FL Governor General Election

- Republican Rep. Chris Smith has won re-election to a 24th term in Congress.  

- Democrat Cory Booker has won re-election to a third full term in the United States Senate from New Jersey.

- Jon Ossoff wins the Georgia U.S. Senate General Election after defeating Republican Mike Collins, according to DDHQ projection

- Democrat Adam Hamawy has been elected to Congress from New Jersey's 12th district.

- Florida Rep. Randy Fine wins reelection to the US House

- Polymarket projects former North Carolina Governor Roy Cooper has won the state's U.S. Senate race  99% chance.

- Fox News projects Democrat Chris Pappas will defeat former Republican Senator John Sununu in New Hampshire Senate race

Oif Simchas Tuesday 24 Cheshvan

Chasunas:

Kirzner - Zelekovitz Ateres Chaim Elazar 

Aberback - Goldstein Ateres Reva

Nehmad - Quaknin Fountain Ballroom 

Koslovsky  - Stein Kesser Moshe Yehuda 

Epstein - Newman Ateres Blima

Sturman - Brody Ateres Esther 

Scott - Pikcholtz Neemas Hachaim 

Solny  - Lench Cedar Palace 

Tuesday November 3 News Updates Lakewood

Weather: 72°A mix of clouds and sun

-  Trump told the Financial Times that the United States has no immediate plans to launch new strikes against Iran, signaling satisfaction with how the situation with Tehran is unfolding. “It looks like we’re getting everything we want,” Trump said

- Trump social  post to Monsey Jewish community today :

"The Jewish community in Monsey, New York, and its surrounding neighborhoods, voted in very big numbers for me in our Historic 2024 Presidential Campaign. TREMENDOUS SUPPORT! TODAY, the eyes of the Country are on New York again! Congressman Mike Lawler has been a tremendous friend to the Jewish community and a strong leader in the fight against antisemitism. He has stood with the community when it mattered most, speaking out against hatred, and standing up for Religious Freedom and School Choice! Mike has worked tirelessly for his constituents, for our Country, and for the Jewish people. He understands the importance of strong leadership, protecting our communities, and delivering REAL RESULTS for the people he represents. His dedication to public service and his willingness to stand up for what he believes in have made a tremendous difference. That kind of commitment should never be taken for granted! Working together with your State Senator Bill Weber, Mike will continue to be your voice, and fight for you and your family! EVERY VOTE MATTERS. MAKE YOUR VOICE HEARD TODAY. VOTE MIKE LAWLER FOR CONGRESS — HE WILL NEVER LET YOU DOWN! President DONALD J. TRUMP

- Israel election update:  by Amit Segal vhief political analyst for CH 12: It is now clear that Eisenkot will be the first to be asked to form a government. When he goes to the President tomorrow, he will have more recommendations than Netanyahu, and probably many more. Here are the numbers as we know them now.

Eisenkot has the four Change Bloc parties, which together hold 48 Knesset seats. Netanyahu has only four of the five parties that ran with him, for 46 seats as UTJ has declared itself agnostic. Ra’am and the Joint List are not counted in either total, but they will clearly do whatever Eisenkot asks of them, whether that means recommending him or staying on the sidelines.

So what does Eisenkot do with the mandate? He will have six weeks from tomorrow, and essentially two options: a unity government with Netanyahu, or a government that includes the Haredim. He may be using the Haredi option as leverage against Netanyahu, or it may be a real option. Either way, here is what is on the table.

United Torah Judaism wants a draft law that is better, by its own standards, than the Bismuth bill, which critics nicknamed the draft-evasion law. It wants a law with no sanctions and no enlistment targets. As it happens, a solution like that already exists, and the man who proposed it is Avigdor Liberman. In 2017, as defense minister and a close friend of the Haredim, he offered them such a law. To this day they regret that they followed the most extreme voice among them and said no. Now Eisenkot needs to know whether Liberman and Bennett are truly with him, or whether they will push him off a cliff to score points in the next election. And nobody knows whether such a law would survive the High Court.

- NYT reports Israel has shared intel with the US asserting that Iran is considering the use of chemical weapons against its adversaries “Information met with alarm by some American officials and deep skepticism by others, according to U.S. and regional officials.”

- Rav Amnon Yitchak will be speaking in Lakewood this evening at the high school

- Trump: "If people ever got tired of me in the US, I'll move to Israel and become prime minister"

- Trump: "If you're black or if you're Jewish, and if you vote for Abdul, you're crazy.

- Shas officially announces: We will recommend Netanyahu. The hypocrisy of the left-wing parties is glaringly obvious.” UTJ yet to .ake recommendation  will wait for gedolim to return from keren olam HaTorah fundraiser in Europe  with a decision.

- Left change bloc suddenly courting the charedim to form a coalition without the Arabs. Journalist Amit Segal says “At the end of an entire campaign that focused on portraying the ultra-Orthodox Jews as ‘parasites’ (Golan), ‘draft dodgers’ (Bennett), ‘destroyers of the country’ (Lieberman), and ‘non-Zionists’ (Eisenkot), the leaders of the Change Bloc agreed that negotiations with the charedim should not be ruled out.”

- Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu: For 4 years, we have witnessed unrestrained attacks on the charedi sector, morning and evening, by the media and the left-wing bloc. The only ones who acted and will act to regulate the status of Torah scholars so that anyone who studies Torah can continue to study Torah legally are Likud and the right-wing bloc. In the face of consciousness engineering, we insisted on producing a real solution, by agreement and in collaboration with the leaders and elected representatives of the Charedi public, and to ensure that anyone who does not study Torah in a yeshiva will enlist in the IDF, enter Caredi and exit charedi. We will act to complete this important mission.

- BDE: Petirah of Rebbetzin Chana Greenbaum a”h, daughter of Rav Shraga Feivel Mendlowitz zt”l,  wife of Rav Dov Greenbaum Ztl ,she was niftar at the age of 104. Her  husband led the Yeshiva of Spring Valley  from 1951 until his passing in 1982  and they were instrumental in establishing Torah life and education in Rockland county.  Her sister, Rebbetzin Shulamis Schiff a”h, wife of Rav Shea Schiff zt”l rosh yeshiva of Mesivta Bais Shraga in Monsey. was niftar in July at the age of 98. 

- President Trump says the U.S. will end roughly $4 billion in annual aid to Israel by the end of the year, revealing that Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu agreed to the decision. Explaining his support for ending military aid to Israel, US President Donald Trump suggests he doesn’t want to give ammunition to critics who knock Washington for giving more to the Jewish state than any other country.“Why should we suffer the slings from lunatics like an El-Sayed when they don’t need it,” Trump tells Fox News. “It’s a bad talking point. Because then you’d say, ‘Why don’t we give everyone $4 billion? Israel is our number one. We give them more than anybody else,’” he continues.

- Nurses to Rally Wednesday in Lakewood

Nurses at Kimball Monmouth Medical Center Southern Campus in Lakewood and RWJBarnabas Health’s Toms River facility have overwhelmingly rejected a proposed contract, citing inadequate staffing, lower sick leave benefits, and wage concerns.  The nurses are demanding contractual staffing ratios of no more than 4–5 patients per nurse, compared to reports of up to six patients per nurse during 12-hour shifts. A rally is scheduled for Wednesday, November 4, at Monmouth Medical Center Southern Campus in Lakewood, as nurses push for better staffing protections, wages, and benefits.

- LPD: Six Drivers Arrested for DWI in Lakewood Over the Weekend as Police Vow to Keep Up Crackdown: Chief Gregory Meyer credits proactive patrols for pulling impaired driver

- In the Monsey election race for state senate Rav Yisroel Dovid Schlesinger שליט״א warns against compromising Torah values for personal, political, or financial interests. He stresses that no one should claim to represent Klal Yisroel without proper authority, and that achieving a desired goal never justifies using improper means. The Jewish community must remain faithful to Torah principles as a ממלכת כהנים וגוי קדוש – a kingdom of priests and a holy nation. Audio

- Democrat Ocean County Commissioner candidate Kia Phua says he is disappointed that the Lakewood Vaad did not give him an opportunity to present his platform before endorsing incumbent Commissioner Frank Sadeghi. Phua points to county tax-rate increases of 10.7% in 2024, 7.1% in 2025, and 8.2% in 2026, totaling a reported 28.2% since 2023. He argues that taxpayers deserve greater accountability and transparency. Phua pledges to vote against any county tax increase that would raise taxes on Ocean County municipalities and says residents deserve an opportunity to hear from all candidates before endorsements are made.

-Lakewood Election

No Robo Calls, No Campaigning Lakewood Election Day Remarkably Quiet

On what is usually one of the busiest days of the election season, Lakewood has been unusually quiet. No barrage of robo-calls, no major get-out-the-vote campaign, and very little visible effort by the incumbent candidates to reach out to the community.

The silence raises a legitimate question: Why the sudden lack of campaigning?

For years, residents have been told how important it is to turn out in large numbers, regardless of who wins. Voter participation and showing strength at the polls have always been emphasized as essential.

Yet this time, there seems to be a deliberate decision to keep things unusually low key. Have the incumbents simply lost interest in reaching out to voters, or is there another reason behind the silence?  Lakewood residents deserve an explanation.

Election Day Tuesday November 3

Election day 2026 midterm elections: Polls open until 8:00pm in New Jersey. Voting is at the local district. Find polling place HERE at NJ voter information portal. No trash collection and municipal offices are closed.

- America First Republican  Rep. Fine

,aka the Hebrew Hammer, has officially WON reelection in Florida’s 6th Congressional District!.

- Republicans in NJ-7 are doing well on GOTV, but the Democratic advantage is still over 13,000.(NJ Globe)

- 6pm in New Jersey  so far 115,8911 have vited with democrats at 23% Republicans at 52% and unaffiliated 23%

- Low voter turnout around Lakewood  as of  4pm crowds vote after 2nd seder

- As of 2pm a total of 72,405 voted  in Ocean county with democrats at 23% Republicans at 53% and unaffiliated 24%

As of 10:30 am 30,000 voted in Ocean county with Republicans 53%

Democrats are hoping to take back control of Congress in the 2026 midterm elections. Election forecasters have predicted that Democrats will win the House majority, but that the race for control of the Senate remains a toss-up. Republicans are hoping for a massive turnout  to beat the early voting numbers favoring democrats. 

Polls are open from 6 AM to 8 PM today, with voters deciding a U.S. Senate race, all 12 congressional seats, county offices, municipal governments, school boards, and hundreds of other contests.  

Locally in Lakewood two seats are open for township committee with Moshe Raitzik on the ballot to unseat the incumbents. There's also elwctions for fire Dep and BOE. In Jackson there's a tight race for mayor and council.

 NJ Globe: This is Donald Trump’s midterm election.  He is the omnipresent force in American politics today. The president’s approval rating in New Jersey has fallen to 29%, with 66% disapproving, according to the latest Fairleigh Dickinson University poll. Among independent voters, Trump’s approval stands at just 24%.  A separate FDU survey found Democrats leading Republicans by 23 percentage points in statewide congressional races.

Democrats enter Election Day with an enormous head start.  An analysis by Umichvoter shows that 1,222,264 New Jerseyans have already voted, including 693,281 Democrats, 290,095 Republicans, and 238,888 unaffiliated and third-party voters. That’s a 403,186-vote Democratic advantage before Election Day.   The numbers reflect party registration, not votes for individual candidates, and Republicans traditionally rely more heavily on Election Day turnout.

At the top of the ballot, U.S. Sen. Cory Booker is seeking a third full term against Republican Justin Murphy, a former Tabernacle deputy mayor.  Booker is heavily favored in a state that hasn’t elected a Republican U.S. senator since Clifford Case in 1972.

The biggest congressional battleground is New Jersey’s 7th district, where Republican Rep. Tom Kean Jr. (R-Westfield) faces Democrat Rebecca Bennett, a former Navy helicopter pilot. Trump carried the district by one point in 2024, while Gov. Mikie Sherrill won it by two points last year. Bennett hopes a favorable national political environment and an energized Democratic electorate will end Kean’s congressional career after two terms.

In South Jersey’s 2nd district, Rep. Jeff Van Drew (R-Dennis) faces Cape May Mayor Zach Mullock.  Democrats have built a significant early voting advantage in a district Trump carried comfortably, although Van Drew has a substantial reservoir of reliable Republican voters who have not yet cast ballots.  Van Drew should be winning, but Democrats

- BDE: Petirah of Rebbetzin Chana Greenbaum a”h, daughter of Rav Shraga Feivel Mendlowitz zt”l,  wife of Rav Dov Greenbaum Ztl ,she was niftar at the age of 104. Her  husband led the Yeshiva of Spring Valley  from 1951 until his passing in 1982  and they were instrumental in establishing Torah life and education in Rockland county.  Her sister, Rebbetzin Shulamis Schiff a”h, wife of Rav Shea Schiff zt”l rosh yeshiva of Mesivta Bais Shraga in Monsey. was niftar in July at the age of 98. 

Oif Simchas Monday 23 Cheshvan

Chasunas:

Schwartz - Friedman  Fountain Ballroom 

Lubling - Koslowitz Cedar Palace

Lauer - Reiss Ateres Reva

Aboud - Shwekey Ne'emas Hachaim 

Spira - Slomovits Ateres Chaim Elazar

Roness  - Burzsryn Ateres Esther 

Rothman - Alpert Ateres  Blima

Heller - Parsons Kesser Moshe Yehuda 

Monday November 2 News Updates Lakewood

Weather: 67° Partly cloudy.

- The United States struck Iran’s strategically important Qeshm Island on Monday, U.S. officials told The Wall Street Journal. The attack is reportedly part of a series of limited, previously undisclosed U.S. strikes against Iranian targets in recent weeks. According to U.S. officials, the operations are intended to prevent Iranian threats to commercial shipping in the Strait of Hormuz.

- Mussar  Shmuz subtle Mashgiach shlita at BMG Beren hall.

- Nusach Ashkenaz- As of Mincha yesterday 90 Shemonah esreis  have been said with the inclusion of משיב הרוח ומוריד הגשם therefore beyond this point one who is unsure if he added Mashiv Haruach can halachicaly be presumed to have said it and need not to repeat shemonah esrei. (nusach Sefard never needs to repeat) (one who served as a shliach tzibbur during this time period may count his chazaras hashatz toward the count of 90. (Tidbits by Klal Govoha)

- Iranian reports indicate explosions were heard in the strategic port city of Bandar Abbas following a reported U.S. strike targeting an Iranian air defense system on Qeshm Island, near the Strait of Hormuz. The reported strike comes as Washington and Tehran are engaged in diplomatic efforts to reach an agreement.

- Youngeleit in Lakewood were holding large signs against voting for Booker due to his anti Torah agenda.

- Trump: Oil Prices are DROPPING LIKE A ROCK, down almost $10 a Barrel, A RECORD, because people feel that there will not be a War with Iran. Iran wants a settlement, as soon as possible. It could happen!"Things are trending in the right direction for America.

- Netanyahu says he is open to talks on forming a broad government, while rejecting any coalition dependent on Ra’am or the Joint List, which he accuses of supporting terrorism and denying Israel’s existence as a Jewish state. He says Likud emerged as the largest party and argues that the result gives him a mandate to lead the next government.

- Trump says Iran wants a deal and that an agreement is possible.

-Antisemitic Graffiti and Nazi Swastika Symbols found scrawled on Four  Williamsburg School Buses of frum schools Police Investigating

- Reminder today is the deadline New Jersey homeowners and renters eligible for the 2026 ANCHOR property tax relief benefit have until TODAY, November 2, to submit their applications.Don't miss out on your property tax relief! Apply here.

- Early voting numbers in New Jersey. So far 1.1 million people have voted in New Jersey both in person and vote  by mail

Combined : 1,123,645

🔵 DEM 645,777 (57.5%)

🔴 GOP 264,662 (23.6%)

⚪️ OTH 213,206 (19.0%)

- Iran offers to reopen the Strait of Hormuz within 48 hours if U.S. meets its demands.

- Iran's President Says Khamenei Has Authorized His Government to Pursue Peace Talks

- Tucker Carlson claims Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is pressuring President Donald Trump to launch a nuclear strike on Iran, targeting an alleged underground enrichment facility. 

- Jackson a swastika was painted in the windows of a home under construction off Whitseville rd.

- Decision desk HQ: Democrats now have an 84% probability of winning control of the House, their highest point of the cycle. Our forecast expects Democrats to win 241 seats. 218 seats are needed for a majority.

- The Texas Senate race is now the most expensive non-presidential race in U.S. history, with a record $573 million pouring in. The latest Fox News poll shows Republican Ken Paxton and Democrat James Talarico tied at 49%, 

- Israel elections president Herzog Urges 'Open Heart' in Coalition Talks as Arab Parties Prepare to Back Eisenkot as will Liebman, the Shas party is leaning to back Netanyahu.

- Ehud Barak is backing down from the conscription Giyus flag: "The IDF is not capable of absorbing all the Charedim, suggests giving them national service," 

- Avigdor Lieberman: The opposition failed a crushing failure, the responsibility lies with Yiznkor and his people who ran an egotistical campaign. We lost 7-8 mandates in the last 10 days.

- Segal: Lieberman has effectively chosen elections. Liberman has ruled out a government with Netanyahu (even in a rotation offer) and support for a minority government. After meeting key leaders, he confirmed Yisrael Beiteinu will endorse Gadi Eisenkot for prime minister and support Yair Lapid for Speaker of the Knesset By backing Lapid over Eisenkot's preferred Speaker choice—a move that burns bridges to a unity government—and ruling out a minority coalition, Lieberman leaves only two real options: a full unity government or new elections. Lieberman has effectively chosen elections.

New Jersey Senate and congress elections. 

 America’s big elections this year are about Congress, and New Jersey is one of the states to watch as control of the U.S. Senate and House hang in the balance during the midterms of President Donald Trump’s second stint in office.

At the top of the ticket in the Garden State, Democratic U.S. Sen. Cory Booker is running for re-election against Republican Justin Murphy in a relatively low-profile race.

Getting more attention: All 12 of the state’s House seats are also on the ballot — including a huge race in the swing 7th District. There, Republican Rep. Tom Kean Jr. is in a competitive battle with Democrat Rebecca Bennett that could help determine whether Republicans keep their majority in the chamber.

There’s also a question if Republican Rep. Jeff Van Drew could be in trouble against Democrat Zack Mullock in South Jersey’s 2nd District as the national mood seems to be tilting against Trump and the GOP.

- Lakewood elections 

Twenty years after promising to restructure and establish an Ichud Rabbonim to ensure broader community representation, the Lakewood Vaad has yet to deliver. Despite tremendous growth in the community, it continues to operate without elections, public accountability, or meaningful input from the broader Kehilla. Critics say the Vaad only becomes active around election time, issuing endorsements and robocalls while remaining silent on residents' concerns. The central question remains: Where are the promised reforms, transparency, and representation? After 20 years, perhaps it's time to let the community choose who speaks on its behalf.

Oif Simchas Sunday 22 Cheshvan

Chasunas:

Weisberger - Deutsch Ne'emas Hachaim 

Engel - Frank Kesser Moshe Yehuda 

Samber - Chase Ateres Blima 

Weichman  Bais Faiga

 Novograd -Saterah Lake Terrace 

Crispe - Locbtman Eagle Ridge 

- Ner  Moshe Siyum Fountain Ballroom 

- Sheva brachos at Khal Toldos Mordechai Vizhnitz

Sunday November 1 News Updates Lakewood

Weather:  61° Partly cloudy 

Mincha Gedolah 12:10pm

Shkiah 4:54 pm

Giyus: The. Chosson who was arrested earlier today has been released from military prison at the request of his lawyer after he agreed to reappear at a later date 

- President Trump issued another warning to Iran, saying he is holding back further military action to give diplomacy a chance and prevent additional loss of life.“The only reason we haven't finished with Iran is that I want to be kind. I want to try and save as many lives as I can.” Trump warned that patience has its limits:

“At some point, we're going to have to give them the hammer.”

- A blow to Abdul El- Sayed. Democrat Haley Stevens just endorsed Republican Mike Rogers against her own party. Chuck Schumer immediately attacked her on twitter "This is a despicable betrayal from Rep. Stevens. Senate Democrats are united in our support for Abdul El-Sayed, because we know he will fight for the economic interests of working families in Michigan, unlike Mike Rogers, who is a tool of Donald Trump and billionaire donors."

- Congressman Chris Smith was in Lakewood today at pizza Plus Clifton Ave and other pre election photo ops.

- Business Jet Crashes Into Florida Mobile Home Park, Multiple Dead no survivors 

A Learjet 60 crashed into a mobile home park in Greenacres, Palm Beach County, shortly after 1 pm local time today. The FAA says nine people were aboard. Authorities report multiple deaths, but the exact toll is unknown, including whether anyone on the ground was killed. It happened not far from Mar a lago where a anti missile defense system has been deployed.

- Giyus: Tomorrow, a “Sheva Brachos” celebration-protest will likely take place, accompanied by music and a meal, outside the gates of Prison Ten, where  a chosson is being held after he was arrested for draft evasion in middle of Sheva Brachos. A few weeks ago they tried arresting him but the crowds from Tzeva shachor prevented it.

- Segal: It wouldn’t be a huge surprise if United Torah Judaism doesn’t endorse Netanyahu.

Assuming, reasonably, that Eisenkot will have more recommendations, he’ll be given four weeks to form a government, with the option of a two-week extension. I find it hard to envision a scenario in which Netanyahu gets the first chance.

- Trump: I have just been informed by the Great Attorney General of Kansas, Kris Kobach, that a Radical Left PAC operative was caught on camera going door to door in Wichita offering gift cards to people for votes. We have photographic evidence. This is a Criminal Offense! Press release attached. If any members of the Public have any information, please notify Attorney General Kris Kobach’s Office, immediately: 785-296-2215. Thank you for your attention to this matter! President DONALD J. TRUMP

- Giyus: After a chosson was arrested during sheva brachos for draft evasion and sentenced  for 20 days in jail,the Badatz Eidah Hacharedis is considering large protests.

- United Torah Judaism is considering not recommending any candidate to the President to form the government.

- Senior officials in the Iranian regime ordered Hezbollah and other proxy organizations to enter high alert in anticipation of war.

- Trump may launch a major military operation against Iran if Republicans lose badly in the midterms, as a US official warns that “if he feels embarrassed, he will do something bold,” adding that Iran’s best chance for a deal is now.

- A new era for Kashrus in Lakewoodas the KCL is to transition into a new entity with new leadership. The Kashrus Council of Lakewood (KCL) has announced a major leadership transition following the retirement of Rabbi Avraham Moshe Weisner, who has led the organization for nearly four decades. In a letter to the Lakewood community, Rabbi Weisner reflected on his years of service under the guidance of the city's rabbinic leadership, helping maintain kashrus standards throughout Lakewood and expanding KCL supervision to numerous local stores and businesses under the Kehillos Chareidim kashrus system. Explaining that he felt it was time to step away from the demanding responsibilities, Rabbi Weisner expressed confidence in the new leadership and hopes for a smooth transition. A newly appointed five-member Board of Trustees will oversee the organization going forward. The board consists of Ari Stern, Meir Gelley, Shaul Seigman, Tovia Rosenberg and Yanky Adler. The transition also includes changes to KCL's administrative procedures, contact information and payment arrangements. The organization expressed its appreciation for Rabbi Weisner's nearly 40 years of dedication and service to the Lakewood community. More

- Keren Olam HaTorah delegation of  gedolei yisroel including Rav  Dov Landau and Moshe Hillel Hirsh headed out to Europe for fundraiser  for yeshivos in EY.

- President Trump is heading to Iowa and Kansas for back-to-back rallies today, while new figures show early voting is up nationwide compared with the last midterms.

- Giyus: Outrage following arrest of a chosso  during sheva brachos. Ye’ari Lieberman, was detained  together with his kallah. According to reports, military police officers dressed in civilian clothing ambushed him as he stepped off a bus. The officers were reportedly wearing Corona masks, apparently making identification more difficult. After apprehending him, the officers informed R'Lieberman that he was under arrest and transferred him to a military prison.The arrest has sparked further outrage, with additional details surrounding the incident still emerging.

-  Fox: With two days until midterms, some voters are making it clear that their decisions are just as much about who they're voting against as who they're voting for. From frustration with President Trump and his administration to concerns about socialism and the economy, Americans across the country are telling Fox News Digital what's driving them to the polls

- Members of the Silver Spring Jewish Center, an Orthodox synagogue in Montgomery County, can carry firearms inside their building but still cannot carry them on the walk there on Shabbos. On Tuesday, Oct. 27, U.S. District Judge Deborah Chasanow of the District of Maryland refused to undo that split. She rejected the synagogue’s request to reconsider and to block the county’s firearm restrictions within 100 yards of places of public assembly, including private houses of worship.

Lakewood Election 

Lakewood Residents Are Paying More and Getting Less. Where Is the Leadership?

Something unusual is happening in this year's Lakewood Township Committee election. There has been very little campaigning by the two Democratic incumbents, and even more surprising is the apparent absence of the usual major push by askanim, who traditionally bombard the community with messages about the importance of showing up and voting in large numbers.

Why the silence?

This election comes at a particularly difficult time for Lakewood residents. Homeowners are facing massive tax increases, with many reportedly seeing their annual property taxes rise by approximately $2,000. At the same time, the township is cutting services, courtesy busing has been eliminated for many students, traffic continues to worsen, and residents are struggling with mounting quality-of-life issues.

For many families, the financial pressure is becoming unbearable. Monthly housing costs have increased by $300 or more for some homeowners, while the services and conveniences they once relied upon are disappearing.

Meanwhile, Trenton appears to have turned its back on Lakewood, cutting funding despite the township's enormous growth and its position as the fourth-largest municipality in New Jersey.

After 25 years of the current leadership being in power, residents have every right to ask: Where is Lakewood's political influence in Trenton? Why hasn't this leadership been able to secure the funding and support that a community of Lakewood's size and importance needs?

Those looking for a different approach have another choice in Moshe Raitzik, who is running for Township Committee. In 2024, Raitzik received close to 13,000 votes, demonstrating significant support for his candidacy.

An election is an opportunity for residents to make their voices heard. Regardless of the usual political endorsements or community pressure, voters should examine the record, ask tough questions, and decide whether the current direction is working.

When residents are paying more, losing services, and seeing their quality of life deteriorate, doing nothing is not an answer. Lakewood residents deserve accountability.

Motzei Shabbos Vayera News Updates

Weather low 37° tomorrow hi 62°

Change clocks tonight Motzei Shabbos Daylight saving time in the United States ends on Sunday, November 1, 2026, at 2:00 a.m. local time, when clocks "fall back" one hour to 1:00 am

- Sof Zman Krias shema/Gra Sunday morning 9: 03 am

- NYC Marathon Verazzano bridge closed tomorrow in both directions and upper level closed tonight 

- President Donald Trump said negotiations with Iran were progressing but described Tehran as unreliable, claiming it makes deals and then withdraws. He said Iran would never obtain nuclear weapons and asserted that the US could address its remaining one or two sites within 10 minutes.

- Degel Hatorah Knesset members met with Rav Dov Landau and Rav Moshe Hillel Hirsch for post election meeting as they decide on who to endorse for making a coalition. There's chatter of them going with the left in a supporting role if a deal on giyus is reached in which civil service can be counted.

- RCCS melava Malka fot Belz community at Yeshiva Mekor  Chaim off  Locust street in Lakewood 

- Carlebach Kumzitz Melava Malka Motzei Shabbos 10:30pm at Caranetta drive Lakewood, NJ at DR. Rothkopf.

- Israel Electioms:  No matter what twisted ideas you come up with, in the end, unity is the only solution. Journalist Amit Segal says the starting point for a unity government is Netanyahu and Smotrich with 33 seats, and Eisenkot and Bennett with 33 seats each. All other scenarios being promoted by journalists including coalitions involving Arab parties, caredi parties, and the left are simply not feasible in reality.

- Last day of Early voting is tomorrow at Lakewood town hall and Jackson Toms River Libraries polls open from 10am - 6pm.

Candidate Moshe Raitzik is running for a sear on the Lakewood township  committee 

- Candidate For Governor of New York Bruce Blakeman   isits Rebbe’s Ohel ahead of Election

- BDE: Petirah of Rav  Mordechai Dov Kreshinsky zt”l,  rosh yeshiva of Yeshivas Maayan HaTalmud in Yerushalayim on rechov Givas Moshe. He was 91 years old. He was a talmid of Rav Elya Lopian ztl a d founder of Hamesorah cheder in Yerushalayim 

- A Orlando Man arrested Over threats to shoot up new  frum Community Near Okeechobee Jerry Sneed, 31, was taken into custody by FDLE agents and the Orange County Sheriff's Office.

- President Trump and Prime Minister Netanyahu spoke yesterday against the backdrop of tensions with Iran, The Wall Street Journal reports.

- Toms River Council took a tentative step toward approving an affordable housing plan for Toms River Oct. 28, when members unanimously introduced a measure approving zoning that would allow for 140 new apartments at the Jamestowne Village apartment complex. App

- Israel Opposition plans to change the knesset speaker along with help from the frum parties due to his toeva lifestyle.  A surprise candidate for the position of Knesset Speaker is Gadi Eizenkot. In the Change bloc, they are interested in appointing someone who could in the future move from the position.

- Violent demonstrations  by Islamists erupted across parts of Germany and France over the weekend, with masked protesters setting barricades ablaze, hurling projectiles at police and turning major city streets. In the French city of Lyon, footage circulating online appeared to show demonstrators burning Israeli and American flags.

Lakewood Zmanim עש"ק פרשת וירא תשפ"ז

     כִּי בָרֵךְ אֲבָרֶכְךָ וְהַרְבָּה אַרְבֶּה אֶת זַרְעֲךָ כְּכוֹכְבֵי הַשָּׁמַיִם וְכַחוֹל אֲשֶׁר עַל שְׂפַת הַיָּם וְיִרַשׁ זַרְעֲךָ אֵת שַׁעַר אֹיְבָיו

Shabbos Hachnosas Orchim

Friday, October 30, 2026.                                      י״ט חשון תשפ״ז ערב שבת פרשת וירא

Candle lighting 5:38pn

Shkiah/Sunset 5:56 pm

Weather 73° Sunny. tonight low 41 

Shabbos 61 sunny and cooler 

- Reb Shayala Keristir would dip his challah from hamotzie in Honey this shabbos since the leining is the parsha read on Rosh Hashana

.

מנהגו בקודש של רביה"ק ר' ישעי'לע מקרעסטוער זיע"א לטבול פרוסת המוציא בדבש בש"ק פרשת וירא שקוראים קריאת  התורה של ימי ראש השנה   

--------------------------------------------------  

קוטעים את הקריאת הפטרה באמצע. הילד מת, האישה בדרך לנביא, ו"כאן מסיימים הספרדים"  ככה לעצור בשיא המתח? הסוף לא מסקרן אתכם

אלא מה, יהודי ספרדי יודע: אם הצדיק הבטיח - ברור שהבטחתו התקיימה.  האשכנזים ספקנים.  לא יאמינו עד שלא יראו בעיניים  (רבי אריה לוין)

Friday October 30 News Updates Lakewood

Shabbos Hachnosas Orchim

Friday, October 30, 2026.                                      י״ט חשון תשפ״ז ערב שבת פרשת וירא

Candle lighting 5:38pn

Shkiah/Sunset 5:56 pm

Weather 73° Sunny. tonight low 41 

Shabbos 61 sunny and cooler 

Change clocks this Motzei Shabbos Daylight saving time in the United States ends on Sunday, November 1, 2026, at 2:00 a.m. local time, when clocks "fall back" one hour to 1:00 am

- Sof Zman Krias shema/Gra Sunday morning 9: 03 am

-19 Cheshvan Yartzeit of Rav Dovid Feinstein ZTL

Admor Temeshvar shlita will spend shabbos in Lakewood at 425 12th street.

Rav Shaul Alter shlita will spend shabbos in Tampa Florida

Loitzk rebbe will be in Baltimore for shabbos

- NYC Marathon The Verazzaano upper level  will be closed Motzei Shabbos 

- The Secret Service ordered short-range surface-to-air missile systems and counter-drone technology to be positioned in and around President Donald Trump’s Mar-a-Lago estate.

- Giyus 35 bochurim/avreichim will be spending shabbos in military jails  while they have not been visited by any of the frum knesset members.

-Trick or treating is tomorrow for those celebrating Halloween

- New Jersey Governor Mikie Sherrill is weighing blocking Russian diesel from being unloaded in New Jersey.

First Shalom Zachor this shabbos at Lakefront community Okochobbee, Florida.

- Tefilos for the NIkolsburg Rebbe Rav Mordechai Jungreis of the Woodbourne shul who is in need of rachmei shamayim name is Mordechai Zev ben Necha Leiba 

- New Jersey Democrats have added more than three times as many voters as Republicans since last year’s gubernatorial election, widening their registration lead by about 31,000 voters heading into next week’s midterm election. Democrats added 42,901 voters statewide from November 2025 through September 2026, according to state data. Republicans added 11,815 voters over the same period, and the number of unaffiliated voters grew by 27,844.

- EY: A bus driver in his 50s was killed Friday morning when the bus he was driving, carrying girls from Moshav Tifrach on their way to seminary, collided with a tractor on Route 25 near Moshav Shibolim and Netivot. 22 girls were injured, in moderate and light condition. According to MDA, a 61-year-old Morah was also seriously injured. Names for  Tehillim are יעל בת אורה ,עדינה בת פייגא 

- Audio when you call the city of Sedom

- Lakewood Shopper Local election editorial

There are many examples of money still being spent on various property purchases and land swaps, on the questionable shuttle bus system, and in other areas that only benefit one or a few people. Furthermore, businesses are still being granted tax abatements, thus denying the township of the important taxes from rateables that a city needs to balance its budget. While helping businesses is important, and such tax abatements are sometimes justifiable, one still may wonder if they are being handed out too easily and frequently, and at the expense of the public in general.

We have been attempting to get answers to these questions for weeks, to no avail. We have heard many excuses, but no solutions of substance have emerged. No candidate has campaigned on a platform that addresses these and other crucial issues that acutely affect every Lakewood resident.

It must be noted that these are topics that are taken very seriously by our da’as Torah. The Shopper is privy to first-hand information regarding behind-the-scenes meetings between establishment activists and Roshei Yeshiva and Rabbanim, in which these figures have pressed for endorsements of candidates who may not be the best for the community, but who will push certain specific issues that fit a defined agenda. The Roshei Yeshiva brought up quality of life issues – such as the fact that one has to sit in traffic for much of the day just to get to yeshiva – but were told that issues like this must be sacrificed for the sake of specific things which are important to the powers that be. The problems with this situation should be self-evident. Elections are not a joke, but, sadly, the consequences are not being taken seriously by certain individuals.

In our conversations with elected officials and public representatives, The Shopper has brought up many practical ideas – quite a few of which were suggested by our wonderful readers – that could help solve some of the problems this town is facing. We are sad to say that, for the most part, very little action has been taken on any of these ideas.

In short, the truth remains that we have gotten no real word on how these matters will be addressed.

We also have received no indication that Lakewood’s problems will receive any real attention on the state or county level. Governor Sherrill is clearly antagonistic to Lakewood. Lakewood is the fourth largest municipality in the state, with a population of over 141,000. (In truth, it is probably the third by now.) It is also the fastest-growing township in the state (and second fastest-growing in the country), and it is not one of the wealthiest townships. Despite all this, Lakewood is receiving almost nothing from the state. And with Sherrill’s new cuts, that funding has gone down much more.

What efforts are being exerted to change this?That’s another question we have no good answer for. Having said all this, we feel that it is impossible for us to weigh in on whom to vote for or why.

Iran Israel Updates October 30

- Trump said the Iran war would end soon and predicted oil and fuel prices would fall rapidly once the fighting ends. Trump said Iran lacks clear leadership, leaving Washington uncertain whom to negotiate with. He said Tehran wants a deal, but the U.S. is demanding guarantees that Iran will not obtain nuclear weapons.

- At least 10 U.S. military transport aircraft have landed at Israeli airbases, according to Israel's Kan News. Several flights originated from Fort Bliss in El Paso, Texas a major U.S. Army air and missile defense hub housing interceptor missiles, Patriot systems, and other air defense assets. The aircraft reportedly landed at Nevatim and Ovda airbases in southern Israel.

The movements come amid reports that Washington is reinforcing regional missile defenses and preparing for the possibility of renewed military strikes against Iran.

- A CENTCOM official said that the U.S. Air Force struck a missile launcher on Iran’s Qeshm Island earlier tonight, following missile launches from the area. “This is an area we’ve been watching over the last week, and we were prepared to act in a defensive manner,” 

- Qatari mediators have returned to Tehran as efforts to broker an agreement between Washington and Iran continue, a source told Reuters. According to the source, Qatar is coordinating its mediation efforts with the United States.

- CENTCOM Commander Adm. Brad Cooper met with President Trump today and briefed him on options for military strikes against Iran, The Wall Street Journal reports. The briefing comes as Saudi Arabia urges Washington to give diplomacy more time, fearing renewed conflict could trigger Iranian attacks on Saudi infrastructure and energy facilities.

- Iran’s military spokesperson declared that the Strait of Hormuz would not reopen until Tehran’s conditions are “fully met,” claiming Iranian forces maintain strategic control of the waterway, N12’s Sapir Lipkin reports.

- US Vice President JD Vance has contacted Iran’s security chief in a bid to revive peace talks that could head off a renewed American assault on the Islamic Republic, the Wall Street Journal reported on Wednesday. Vance sent a letter to Mohsen Rezaei, head of Iran’s Supreme National Security Council, the Journal reported, in a move that one of the newspaper’s sources said was directed by US President Donald Trump.