Tuesday February 3 News Updates Lakewood

 Weather: 36° Mostly cloudy. Tonight is 21° with A few flurries or snow showers possible A coating to 1 inch of snow is possible 

Mid winter break some schools have off today

- On Talkline with Zev Brenner, Netanel Weiss ex con responds to a viral YouTube video that many say falsely portrays Orthodox Jewish communities in Lakewood and Kiryas Joel.

Watch HERE

- US House pases funding bill that will officially end the government shutdown in a 217-214 vote. It's now on the way to President Trump's desk.

- Chat GPT is down, people have to use their brains.

- Nancy Guthrie disappearance TMZ reported receiving an unverified ransom note Tuesday morning demanding millions in Bitcoin to a specific address, with a deadline, threats, and case-specific details They've forwarded it to authorities; authenticity unconfirmed.The White House posted support praying for the family and echoing calls for public help as .Search continues urgently

- In an interview with News12NJ this morning, Governor Mikie Sherrill says she spoke with President Trump last week - her first conversation with the part-time New Jersey resident since taking office on January 20. She spoke with the President about the importance of the Gateway tunnel project and the economic impact it will have on the entire region.(Onejersey) 

-The Iranians are backing away from the understandings: demanding to move the negotiations with the US from Turkey to Oman The White House confirms, the talks with Iran are still taking place as planned this week

- Giyus: Israel Channel 13 reports The Belz and Karlin Rebbes took an active role in drafting the religious guidelines for integrating Charedim into the IDF. Their representatives attended meetings with the army and approved the directive clauses, signaling mainstream Charedi support and facilitating implementation.

No Women, Full Religious Enforcement: IDF approves Charedi service tracks with strict gender segregation, mandatory Torah study, religious commanders, phone censorship, and rabbinical oversight. Soldiers declare themselves Charedi; uniforms optional, kashrus strictly observed.

- PSA: With snow still piled up on township roads, many two-way streets are reduced to a single lane, leaving cars facing each other. Instead of turning it into a battle of egos, the solution is to slow down early and assess who has a nearby pull-off, driveway, or wider spot. The driver who can move aside more easily should stop and yield rather than squeeze past, using a quick headlight flash or hand wave to communicate. Keeping wheels straight, avoiding deep snow, and exercising patience and clear communication help traffic move safely without sliding or causing accidents.

- Lakewood Township  DPW crews are clearing snow along streets using tractors, dump trucks, and tow trucks to move cars, but piles and mounds remain at street corners, blocking sidewalks and forcing pedestrians into the road.

- Pescada Dairy Restaurant in Jackson, NJ now open

- Bingo has superbowl specials only for the five towns location, the Salmon special of $6.00 ends today for all locations 

- Waze Mehadrin devices must be manually updated due to a recent software update that caused the filter to fail. Devices can be brought to TAG to receive the update.

- Lakewood Planning Board meeting tonight 6 pm watch livestream here

 last meeting stream was not working properly agenda here 

 includes an application from Congregation Skver Yeshiva of Lakewood Inc. at 711 West Kennedy Boulevard, requesting a site plan exemption to convert a former Elk’s Lodge into a school. Also on the agenda is a request from Block 458 LLC, near Prospect (Cross Street), to adjust approved interior lot lines from a previously approved application of 40 lots.

- Giyus: Calls for large protests tomorrow at induction centers across the country as the IDF plans a day of recruitment for the charedi community 

- Giyus: IDF warns of manpower crisis if ultra-Orthodox Jews not drafted by March

The IDF plans to call up more Charedi soldiers to prevent a readiness gap in January 2027, when 2,500 combat troops will be released. It issued a formal order detailing Charedi service pathways, building on programs like Chashmonaim and Magen, Expanding Charedi enlistment depends on government action, and the IDF also supports extending mandatory service from 30–32 to 36 months.

- Iran and the United States will resume nuclear talks on Friday in Turkey,and US President Donald Trump warned that with US warships heading to Iran, “bad things” would probably happen if a deal could not be reached.

-Yeshiva Bais Hachinuch High School in Lakewood has informed parents that it will close at the end of the year and will assist in placing all 10th and 11th grade bochurim in other yeshivos.

- Mesivta farhers begin tomorrow 9am

-More and more YouTubers and copycats are now posting videos claiming to “document fraud” in the Lakewood area, yet none present real evidence. They selectively focus on one community, and when called out for fueling antisemitism, they deny any targeting and brush off the criticism. In reality, Community members are ignoring their attempts at interviews or trolling them,

- Starting Feb. 1, travelers without REAL ID-compliant identification must pay $45 for TSA’s new ConfirmID program. The receipt is valid for 10 days after that, travelers must pay again if they still lack a REAL ID or other accepted ID. There is no free option; travelers must either use a REAL ID/acceptable ID or pay the fee..

- Israeli startup Remilk launched New Milk, a cow-free, lab-made milk protein now parve kosher, meaning it can be eaten with meat. Rabbi Moshe Elefant of the OU said, “Is this parve? The answer is yes. May this be mixed with meat? The answer is yes. Now you or me or anyone may feel that this is a violation of the spirit of the law, which I respect, but I can’t legislate based on that.” Other kashrus agencies cited issues with Maaras Ayin. Restaurants like Tel Aviv’s Bodega Burger see it as a chance to expand kosher menus with new dishes previously not possible under kosher law. More 

-Footage out of Zohran Mamdani’s New York City, captured by NY Scoop, is going viral, showing homeless people sitting over manholes for warmth as snow and garbage line the streets, while 16 people have already died from the cold

- Amid a potential state takeover, the Lakewood Board of Education approved corrective action plans targeting excessive salaries and chronic student absences. An audit found the board attorney was paid $50,000 per month rather than by billable hours, prompting new policies to review legal payments for compliance. The district also addressed chronic absenteeism, defined as missing 10% or more of sessions, noting improvement from 25.1% in 2021–22 to 15.6% in 2023–24.(njspotlight)

- Trump: “Why hasn’t the Fake News New York Times adjusted its phony article on the corruption and antisemitism which has taken place at Harvard. They never call for facts, or factchecks, because the Times’ is a corrupt, unprincipled, and pathetic vehicle of the Left. They wrote only negatively about me in the last Election, and I won in a landslide. To anyone who knows, they have ZERO credibility, a “Rag” at the lowest level. I look forward to watching their rapidly falling circulation force them to finally close their doors. That would be great news for America!”

-Boys from the Special Children’s Center in Lakewood took a midwinter trip to Artscroll headquarters, where they experienced the printing process firsthand and received a bracha from Rabbi Nosson Sherman and met with Reb Gedalia Zlotowitz.

-NYT: Iran is ready to close or suspend its nuclear program to ease tensions with the US but prefers the American proposal from the summer, according to which a regional consortium for uranium enrichment will be established.

-As New Jersey enters budget season under Gov. Mikie Sherrill, lawmakers are revisiting school district consolidation to cut costs. The state’s 600+ districts far exceed most states, though mergers have historically faced limited local support.

- Major U.S. homebuilders are reportedly exploring a plan, informally called “Trump Homes,” to build up to one million new homes. The initiative aims to address housing shortages and affordability while aligning with President Trump’s economic priorities, though it remains in early discussion and has not been officially announced.

-  The U.S. military today ntercepted and shot down an Iranian drone that flew toward the USS Abraham Lincoln aircraft carrier in the Arabian Sea. A U.S. official told Reuters the drone was an Iranian Shahed-139 and was downed by an American F-35 fighter jet as it approached the carrier.

Satmar Rebbe durung Mitzvah tantz at Satmar wedding last night in Williamsburg 

Israel News Feb 3

- A military source to Channel 14 News about the meeting: "We warned the Americans that the Iranians will violate any agreement and that there is no point in trying to reach one, they will not dismantle their nuclear and missile capabilities, and the Iranians are trying to buy time to move offensive weapons into hiding places.”

- Israeli Prime Minister's Office: The meeting between Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and the U.S. President's special envoy, Steve Witkoff, has concluded. The Prime Minister emphasized the uncompromising demand for the disarmament of Hamas, the demilitarization of the Gaza Strip, and the completion of the war objectives before the reconstruction of the Gaza Strip. The Prime Minister clarified that the Palestinian Authority will not be part of the management of the Gaza Strip in any way, and updated U.S. Ambassador Huckabee on the grave violations discovered in the Gaza Strip involving the use of UNRWA bags to conceal weapons. Ahead of Witkoff’s trip to meet with an Iranian representative, the Prime Minister reiterated that Iran has repeatedly proven its promises cannot be trusted.

- A leaked internal Hamas document reveals how the group plans to maintain secret control over Gaza despite the arrival of a so-called technocratic government. Sent to senior officials, the document instructs them to continue daily routines while avoiding criticism or attacks on the new government, and to channel all communication through official channels a clear signal that Hamas remains the true authority behind the scenes.

- Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu met with U.S. Special Envoy Steve Witkoff in Yerushalayim , joined by top security officials, ahead of Witkoff’s talks with Iran in Istanbul. Netanyahu is expected to urge the U.S. to take a hard line in negotiations, focusing on Iran’s nuclear program and regional activities, as part of broader efforts to prevent military conflict.

- Israel reacted angrily Monday night after the Palestinian technocratic committee tasked with managing the daily affairs of postwar Gaza in place of Hamas replaced its logo with the one used by the Palestinian Authority.“Israel will not accept the use of the Palestinian Authority’s symbol, and the PA will not be a partner in the administration of Gaza,” Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s office said.

“The logo of the National Committee for the Administration of Gaza (NCAG) presented to Israel was completely different from the one published this evening,” it added.

- Only 12 of the 42 Palestinians who sought to return to the Gaza Strip via the Rafah Border Crossing Monday were allowed to enter, according a Tuesday report, which said 30 were blocked and were returned to Egypt. Monday was the first day of a limited reopening of the Rafah Crossing,

- IDF forces located in the southern Gaza Strip: more than 100 mortar shells and several rockets hidden in blankets and UNRWA humanitarian aid bags.

- French authorities have issued warrants for two Franco-Israeli nationals for “complicity in genocide,” over allegations that they tried to stop humanitarian aid from entering Gaza, a legal source said Monday.

- Contrary to statements by Iranian officials, The Wall Street Journal reported that Iran's missile program will also be on the agenda in talks in Istanbul on Friday. According to the report, the talks may take place on two levels - one dealing with the nuclear field and one dealing with the missile program and other disputed issues

Oif Simchas Monday 16 Shevat

Chasunas:

Brunner - Landau Kesser Moshe Yehuda

Kroll  - Caplan Fountain Ballroom 

Kozlov - Shkonik Ateres Esther 

Goldman Neemas Hachaim 

Reidel- Stern Bais Faiga

Kallner  -Shulman Cedar Palace

Dating spots full

Monday Tu B'shevat News Updates Lakewood

                                 ט"ו בשבט תשפ"ו

Shloshim yom kodem some begin learning Maseches megilah to finish in time for Purim.

- weather: 35° Sunny enough to clear away ice tempest will be above freezing from 12-3 pm 

Light snow is expected Tuesday night into Wednesday morning, with a coating to 1 inch of snow possible in most places, especially south of Interstate 78.

Midwinter break girls schools off today

The Forward article reports on the Asifa in Lakewood last month about AI. The reporter spoke to six Lakewood rabbis and community leaders, including three who were attendance at a gathering about artificial intelligence Jan. 4.

The title is "These rabbis are making an Orthodox case against AI. Will anyone listen?

In Lakewood, a Jewish case against AI takes shape. According to the arricle The rabbis warned that AI could weaken social skills and cause emotional intelligence decline , harming real-world interactions and domestic harmony. They argued that Torah study requires a human soul and traditional effort ameilus, which AI shortcuts, making learning spiritually sterile. AI could also expose users to uncensored or inappropriate content and disrupt communal standards in homes and yeshivas. Overreliance on technology risks reducing self-sufficiency and ethical engagement, and using AI for drashos or Torah exposition was seen as blasphemous. Even as AI becomes inevitable in business and education, it creates tension between practical needs and religious principles

- Reports of a big ICE raid in Lakewood today involving some Israelis a d Mexicans according to scanner news reports.

- White House envoy Steve Witkoff and Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi are expected to meet on Friday in Istanbul, Turkey, to discuss a possible nuclear deal, sources say - Axios

- President Donald Trump said in a Truth Social post that he was not friendly with Jeffrey Epstein, claimed newly released Justice Department information shows a conspiracy involving Epstein and author Michael Wolff to harm him politically, threatened lawsuits, and denied ever visiting Epstein’s island.

- Days after a major blizzard, many NYC sidewalks remain blocked, drawing resident complaints, as the city defends its snow response and faces criticism over homeless outreach during a deadly cold snap. When 10 homeless died in NYC.

- The groundhog  Punxsutawney Phil predicts six more weeks of winter after emerging from a tree stump in Pennsylvania.

- LDC reorganization meeting today 4:30 pm virtual only  approving 400k for budget operating costs today is also the deadline to submit the shuttle bus liaison application for 300k paid buy the UEZ

- Lakewood Tops NJ Housing Market for investment, based on home value appreciation over the last five years. according to travel and leisure

Lakewood, NJ, is the state’s top real estate market, with home values up 97.5% over five years and a median price of $733,729. The fast-growing town, located between NYC and Philadelphia, attracts investors despite housing costs 44% above the national average. Other high-growth markets include Ventnor City, Spring Lake, Hoptatcong, and South Orange. 

  

- Giyus: Israel’s attorney general warned of major failures in enforcing the High Court ruling on drafting yeshiva students, as officials revealed over 71,000 people have ignored draft orders, about 80% of them from the chareidi community, prompting the military to announce tougher penalties.

- Jackson officials have extended the landlord registration deadline to February 4, 2026, due to municipal office closures caused by winter weather.

-Trump blasts the Grammys as unwatchable, attacks host Trevor Noah, denies ever being on Epstein Island, calls the claim false and defamatory, and threatens to sue Noah and CBS.

- Jackson: Former Police Chief Matthew Kunz will receive $2 million to settle his 2024 lawsuit that had claimed mistreatment and demands for back pay during his last nine years as chief. In a related move, the township appointed its first woman police chief, designating Captain Mary Nelson as interim chief to replace Kunz as of Sunday. APP

- At least 12 earthquakes hit the San Francisco Bay Area this morning, including a strongest 4.2-magnitude quake shortly after 7 a.m., according to the U.S. Geological Survey.

- Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said in the Knesset that Israel is on high alert and prepared for any development, stressing that the country is closely monitoring events and ready for all scenarios.“We are alert and prepared for every development. We are following what is happening and are ready for any scenario,” Netanyahu said.

 - Chris Christie says Trump’s unpopularity in New Jersey doomed Republicans in 2025, blaming him for a 14-point loss in the governor’s race and the loss of five Assembly seats leaving the GOP at its weakest level in the state since Watergate.  

- BDE: Petirah of  Rav Shemaryahu Meltzer zt”l, Rosh Kollel of Beis Moshe and rosh yeshivah at Yeshivas Toras Simcha in rechov Sorotzkin Yerushalayim, a leading marbitz Torah for over 60 years, including Yeshivas Toras Simcha, Kollel Beis Moshe, Yeshivas Itri in Yerushalayim, and Beis Midrash LaTorah (Skokie) in Chicago Levaya this afternoon in Yerushalayim

- BDE: Petirah of Rav Tzvi Lercher zt”l, longtime MTJ rebbi and talmid of Rav Moshe Feinstein zatzal the levayah took place Sunday morning in Boro Park

-BDE: Petirah of Rabbi chaim Chernoff ztl  of Brooklyn noted Kahrus expert.

- President Pezeshkian has already ordered the opening of negotiations with the U.S., which will apparently take place in Turkey.

BMG Freezer opens today

Article on  wikipidia

Upon acceptance to the yeshiva, a student must sign a document stating that he will not enter shidduchim for his first three months at the yeshiva. Students entering for the winter term can begin dating on Tu Bishvat; students entering for the summer term can begin dating on 17 Tammuz. The three month periods are known colloquially as "The Freezer." The Freezer policy is designed to minimize students' distractions during the crucial first few months of studies, allowing them to be better integrated into the yeshiva schedule and into the Yeshiva as a whole.

A loophole around the Freezer rule is that a student may continue to date a girl if he began dating her before the start of the semester.

In practice, students comply with the Freezer rule, and it is rarely violated. If a student is found to have violated the rule, the senior faculty (The Roshei Yeshiva) generally will not attend the wedding (which is considered an honor) in protest, and the student may be subject to other disciplinary measures, including suspension of the student from Yeshiva indefinitely, and preclusion from receiving Kolel stipends ($160 biweekly).

תפילה לט"ו בשבט על אתרוג נאה

A tefilah for Tu Bshvat from the בן איש חי to daven for a Nice Esrog for the coming Sukkos

 יְהִי רָצוֹן מִלְּפָנֶיךָ ה’ אֱלֹקֵינוּ וֶאֱלֹקֵי אֲבוֹתֵינוּ, שֶׁתְּבָרֵךְ כָּל אִילָנוֹת הָאֶתְרוֹג לְהוֹצִיא פֵּרוֹתֵיהֶם בְּעִתָּם, וְיוֹצִיאוּ אֶתְרוֹגִים טוֹבִים יָפִים וּמְהֻדָּרִים, וּנְקִיִּים מִכָּל מוּם, וְלֹא יַעֲלֶה בָּהֶם שׁוּם חֲזָזִית, וְיִהְיוּ שְׁלֵמִים וְלֹא יִהְיֶה בָּהֶם שׁוּם חֶסְרוֹן וַאֲפִלּוּ עֲקִיצַת קוֹץ, וְיִהְיוּ מְצוּיִים לָנוּ וּלְכָל יִשְׂרָאֵל אַחֵינוּ בְּכָל מָקוֹם שֶׁהֵם, לְקַיֵּם בָּהֶם מִצְוַת נְטִילָה עִם הַלּוּלָב בְּחַג הַסֻּכּוֹת שֶׁיָּבֹא עָלֵינוּ לְחַיִים טוֹבִים וּלְשָׁלוֹם, כַּאֲשֶׁר צִוִּיתָנוּ בְּתוֹרָתֶךָ עַל יְדֵי מֹשֶׁה עַבְדְּךָ “וּלְקַחְתֶּם לָכֶם בַּיּוֹם הָרִאשׁוֹן פְּרִי עֵץ הָדָר כַּפֹּת תְּמָרִים וַעֲנַף עֵץ עָבֹת וְעַרְבֵי נָחַל."

Oif Simchas Sunday ט"ו בשבט תשפ"ו

BMG freezer opens tonight 

Chasunas:

Goldberg - Pam Bais Faiga

Tu Bshvat Peiros Tish

Skulen 8:45pm

Shemen L'Mincha Brookhill 10:15pm

Khal Sharei Ish Jackson 518 E. Veterans 8 45pm

Mordys Shtiebel 10:00pm

Babad Toms River

Sunday February 1 News Updates

Weather: 25° Partly cloudy. Cold

Tu BShevat tish tonight at Skulen Lakewood 8:45 pm

- Petirah of Rav Yissachar Dov Biderman, the Lelover Rebbe zt”l. The Rebbe collapsed while immersing in a mikvah on rechov Tzefanya in Yerushalayim. He was 84 years old. LEevaya tonight in Yerushalayim at the B M off Bar Ilan with kevura in Har Hazeisim

- Rav Meilich Biderman cancels Tu Bshvat peiros tish due to levaya of Lelover rebbe.

-  Mesivta farhers begin Wed morning. 

-Galei Israel Radio This Morning: "It's Not If - It's When. And It Will Be Sooner Rather Than Later" Discussed the coming strike on Iran with

this morning.

- Orlando,FL: All of Central Florida is facing what is expected to be a record-cold weekend. Flurries have been spotted in several areas, including Mount Dora and New Smyrna Beach.

Sunday morning lows were in the mid 20s.

 

A Chabad school in Miami canceled classes due to the cold weather.

- An advertising campaign has been targeting the frum community to encourage daily learning of the Rambam, on behalf of an organization called Mifal Kol Hatorah. The campaign began on Tu B’Shvat, but the  campaign doesn't provide any names of the people behind the organization or the rabbinic figures endorsing it.

Snow piled high on street corners along Clifton Ave forcing pedestrians onto the road

- Iran's Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, warned the U.S. that any military action against Iran would escalate into a regional conflict. He dismissed U.S. threats, including the deployment of military assets, as ineffective against Iran. Khamenei also posted a message in Hebrew, likely addressing Israel, reinforcing that any war would have broader regional consequences.

- Giyus: The Attorney General at the hearing on the Charedi draft: All state bodies must intensify criminal, civil, and economic enforcement against draft evaders. The police's avoidance of actions against draft dodgers - is highly troubling and leads to selective enforcement. 

Earlier the police said they will not enforce action against draft dodgers due to a lack of manpower.

- REPORTER: Khamenei said today that a U.S. attack could start a regional war.

TRUMP: Why wouldn’t he say that? of course he is going to say that… We have the biggest, most powerful ships in the world over there, very close… Hopefully we’ll make a deal.

- Mayor Mamdani’s Gracie Mansion noticeably trash-free as Upper East side neighbors drown in 8-foot piles of garbage (nyp)

Mid-Winter break or Yeahiva Week

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

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

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

Bug Free Tu B'Shevat

Tu B'Shevat 5786

Guidance according to Rav Moshe Vaye sefer Bedikas Hamazon

Motzei Shabbos Beshalach News Updates

Weather 11° Overcast. A few flurries or snow showers possible. Low 11F. 

Wind gusts up to 50 mph and widespread minor coastal flooding along the Jersey Shore are expected tonight into Sunday from a powerful storm passing offshore.

The storm’s track has shifted far enough off the coast to limit snow potential to just light accumulations of an inch or less in Cape May County and some flurries elsewhere along the coast.

- Trump reiterates: 'We’ll see what happens' as US considers military options against Iran if no deal - 

- Melava Malka chanukas Habayis for the new Bais medrash אהל אלימלך חוסט of Lakewood at 75 Linden Ave

-Yartzeit Hilula Rabbe Yitzchak Abuchatzeira at 53 hikory Hill in jackson 

Energy insane-Mid Winter break many residents away for shaabbos and extended weekend. Local indoor fun establishments with special midwinter schedules and promotions 

- Youtuber visits Shopping plaza in Westgate on erev shabbos as residents ignore attempts to gobon camera while others troll the film crew.

- BMG freezer officially opens tomorrow 

- Top Iranian official says progress made towards launching negotiations with the United States, as talks are pushed by Egypt, Russia, Turkey and Qatar, in an attempt to prevent a full-scale conflict in the Middle East, sources tell Axios.

- Lakewood DPW crews cleared some snow from main roads over shabbos but many roads and sidewalks are still not walkable posing safety concerns for residents.

- Two gas explosions struck residential areas in Bandar Abbas and Ahvaz on Saturday, killing five people including a young girl and injuring more than a dozen. Officials blamed aging gas infrastructure, while online rumors of sabotage spread amid U.S. Iran tensions, claims Iranian authorities denied.

-Trump says federal forces will only intervene if local leaders ask, but will aggressively defend federal property..

- NY Gov. Hochul introduced new statewide legislation to to block federal immigration authorities from using local law enforcement and jails for civil immigration enforcement.

A letter from Rav Tuvia Shulzinger to American and Lakewood roshei yeshiva says yeshivos for struggling bochurim in Eretz Yisroel have been left out of recent special funding set up by American baalei batim to offset Israeli government cuts.

- 

Zmanim Lakewood עש ק פרשת בשלח שבת שירה תשפ"ו

Friday, January 30, 2026 / י״ב שבט תשפ״ו

ערב שבת פרשת בשלח

Candle lighting 4:55pm

Shkiah/Sunset 5:13pm

Weather:  Friday night low 2° Very cold. 

Shabbos day 23°overcast in the afternoon

Motzei shabbbos & Sunday chance of flurries or snow showers 1-2 inches

- Walking to shul this Shabbos will be challenging due to very cold temperatures, with wind chills down to -10°F, and sidewalks are not shoveled. Exercise caution

סגולה עצומה - שבת זו נקראת שבת שירה מפני שקוראים בה שירת הים. שבת זו מאירה באופן מיוחד ויש בה עת רצון עצומה ל 3 דברים רפואה, זיווג, פרנסה. בפרשה זו נזכר בפירוש הפעם הראשונה שה' הוא הרופא הגדול 'אני ה' רפאך' ולכן בשבת זו יש סגולה עצומה לרפואה כי התגלתה מידת הרחמנות של ה' לכן רצוי לבקש בשבת זו רפואה ובריאות

נאמר על זיווג ופרנסה שהם קשים כקריעת ים סוף וכמו שבפרשה זו נפתח הים, כך גם נפתח מזלו של האדם "בשבת קודש זו בכל שנה ושנה מתעוררים עלינו מהשמיים כל הטובות, חיים, שלום וגאולה, כלל ופרט, נפש וגוף, ורפואה ופרנסה טובה והכל מעורב עם ברכה וקדושה"

(הרבי מלובלין)

                                                                      מנהג שבת 

שירה

הכרת טובה יש נוהגים שבשבת שירה, מפזרים בחוץ משירי מאכלי שבת, שיאכלום עופות הבית וציפורי הדרור שבחוץ. והטעם: כיוון שקוראים בשבת זו בפרשת בשלח שיש בה סיפור על המן שירד לישראל במדבר ושנאמר בו: "אכלוהו היום כי שבת היום לה', היום לא תמצאהו בשדה... ויהי ביום השביעי יצאו מן העם ללקוט, ולא מצאו." (שמות ט"ז)

אמרו רבותינו ז"ל, שאותם אנשים שיצאו ללקוט ביום השביעי רשעים היו, ידעו שהמן לא ירד בשבת כדבר

שאבעס לישראל

שאבעס לישראל

Friday January 30 News Updates

 Friday, January 30, 2026 / י״ב שבט תשפ״ו

ערב שבת פרשת בשלח

Candle lighting 4:55pm

Shkiah/Sunset 5:13pm

Weather: 18° Sunny to partly cloudy.

Friday night low 2° Very cold. 

Shabbos day 23°overcast in the afternoon

Motzei shabbbos & Sunday chance of flurries or snow showers 

Temperatures are not expected to rise above freezing until at least early next week.

- Walking to shul this Shabbos will be challenging due to very cold temperatures, with wind chills down to -10°F, and sidewalks are not shoveled. Exercise caution

-Youtuber back in lkwd again erev shabbos in Westgate shopping plaza

- Al Jazeera Channel reports from sources:

The US has informed an ally in the region that Trump may authorize an attack against Iran as early as Sunday morning.

- Snow totals in New Jersey have been reduced as the coastal storm shifts east. Only 1–2 inches are expected near the Jersey Shore, with just a dusting for areas south of I-195. However, the storm will still bring strong wind gusts up to 45 mph and a continued risk of coastal flooding along the Shore. Forecast  accumulations as of Friday morning

Jackson: little to no accumulation

Lakewood: coating to an inch

Manchester: coating to an inch

Toms River: coating to an inch

Snow expected late motzei shabbos.

- Midwinter vacation

- Tu Bshvat this Monday

- BMG freezer opens Sunday night

- Reminder to put out bread for birds before shabbos

- Skulener rebbe will spend shabbos in South Lakewood at Chateau Park and Oak n Vine area.

- Thousands of Vizhnitz Mercaz Chasisim will be spending shabbos shira in Eilat and will recite shiras Hayam shabbos morning on the banks of the yam suf 

-The Sanzer rebbe will be spending shabbat at the Armon hotel in Connecticut with his chasidim 

- Due to this week’s snowstorm, some eruvim may be damaged. The Chassidishe rabbonim in South Lakewood reported that the eruv along Route 9 is not usable this Shabbos, and carrying is not permitted.

- President Donald Trump on Friday confirmed he has had dialogue with Iran, as The New York Times reported he was considering potential raids by American troops on facilities within Iran. “We have a lot of very big, very powerful ships sailing to Iran right now, and it would be great if we didn’t have to use them,” Trump said.

- Gaza’s Rafah Crossing to reopen for pedestrians in both directions Sunday

- This afternoon, Chinese Navy destroyers were reported en route to Iranian waters ahead of a planned joint naval exercise with Iran and Russia in the coming days.

- Giyus: Boaz Bismuth, chairing the Foreign Affairs and Defense Committee, said the committee has completed a key step toward approving the historic Conscription Law. He emphasized that while disagreements exist in the Knesset, the goal is clear: pass the legislation quickly to ensure the IDF has enough soldiers.

- He Came, He Filmed, He Found Nothing but Good Shawarma TVOL profiles youtubers attempt to find fraud in Lakewood Here 

- APP reports on the new GGin jackson: Gourmet Glatt has opened a new kosher supermarket in Jackson at 2275 W. County Line Road, taking over the former Stop & Shop space at Bennetts Mills Plaza. The 67,000-square-foot store is the company’s third location in Ocean County, joining two existing stores in Lakewood. The store features departments including meat, bakery, fish, sushi, prepared foods, and floral.

- IDF spokesman Brig. Gen. Effie Defrin said there is no change to Home Front Command guidelines. He emphasized that the military remains on high alert and closely monitoring the situation, and assured the public that any changes to instructions will be communicated immediately.

- The US Navy ship USS Delbert D. Black was seen off the coast of Eilat today

- Donald Trump has nominated Kevin Warsh to serve as Chairman of the Federal Reserve.

- Luigi Mangione will not face the death penalty in the murder case of UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson. A judge dismissed two federal charges, including the capital murder count, while remaining charges will proceed in court.

- A New York Times/Siena poll finds that economic anxiety extends even to higher earners. About 10% of voters making $200,000 or more worry about affording housing and health care in retirement. While most respondents can cover basic needs like rent and groceries, a majority say key middle-class expenses are increasingly out of reach, reflecting broader concerns about long-term financial security.

- Both the Amshinover and Skver Rebbes advised that anyone needing to fly to or from Eretz Yisrael should do so before Shabbos Parshas Beshalach, cautioning that the security situation may prevent flights for an extended period afterward.

-  Amit Segal: “Not a single person from Gaza called the hotline that the IDF set up to get information about the hostages. Even in Nazi Germany, there were Righteous Among the Nations who helped Jews, and they did it without a promise of 5 million dollars.”

שירת הים

Parshas Beshalach אז ישיר in Yiddish Voice of Rav Asher Schloss Yesodei HaTorah London

1

Oif Simchas Thursday 12 Shevat

Weather tonight low of 4° Bitterly cold. 

Chasunas:

Weinstein - Keller Fountain Ballroom 

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

Thursday January 29 News Updates Lakewood

 Weather: 22° Sunshine Continued cold. tonight low of 5°

weekend storm update: while impacts are still possible, most current model guidance leans toward the storm tracking a bit offshore, reducing the likelihood of major snow accumulations in New Jersey though strong wind and coastal flooding risks remain real. Stay tuned to forecasts through Friday and Saturday as models continue to narrow the storm track.

- Rudy Guliani: NYC has just experienced what it means to have a Democrat-Communist Mayor. The policy of NYC before, during, and after I was Mayor was to remove homeless from the streets when it approached freezing. The incumbent Mayor has changed that policy. 

During the recent storm ten people were found dead on the streets. Isn’t this tantamount to, at minimum, reckless disregard for human life? 

Will there be any accountability?

- WSJ reports Trump is prioritizing Iranian nuclear and ballistic missile sites after assessing strikes alone won’t collapse the regime. Options also range from symbolic strikes to cyberattacks on Iranian banks, tougher sanctions, or other measures

 - Iran has informed Egypt of its strong objections to U.S. terms and warned that U.S. bases, warships, and allies could be targets if tensions escalate, according to WSJ.

- Youtuber with hit piece on KJ, is in the Lakewood area again today, first in Jackson and than in Westgate among other areas.

- In Israel, it is estimated that US President Trump wants to focus the attack, assuming he decides on it, on more physical targets - nuclear and possibly also ballistic missiles. In such a situation, the assessment in Israel is that Iran will indeed respond, with a significant response towards Israel. - N12

- Hegseth: Iran can reach a deal and should not aspire to acquire nuclear capability. The Pentagon will be ready to provide Trump with everything he expects

- NJ Dem governor ducks question on 'monster' illegal alien who fractured a frum 8-year-old girls skull with rock attack

Newly inaugurated NJ Gov. Mikie Sherrill declined to comment on the case of Hernando Garcia-Morales, an illegal immigrant accused of throwing a baseball-sized rock at a school bus, fracturing an 8-year-old girl’s skull. DHS called Garcia-Morales a “monster” with a long criminal history and criticized New Jersey’s sanctuary policies, noting ICE has lodged a detainer. State officials said laws allow cooperation with ICE, but emphasized their priority is public safety. The 8-year-old girl from Yeshivat Noam in Teaneck was injured when a rock hit her school bus returning from a field trip. She underwent surgery and is now recovering at home. (FOX  news digital)

- BDE: Tragedy in New Square: 5-year-old Mattisyahu Glick A"H was critically injured after being struck by a school bus on Ostilla Avenue and has passed away.

- At last night’s Lakewood Board of Education meeting, residents from the Ridge area voiced concerns about the upcoming sale of the Menatta and Ella Clark school buildings, scheduled to begin February 12. They requested a stipulation that the properties only be sold for school use, not to developers, citing that the Ridge area is already at capacity, with no green space, frequent power outages, heavy traffic, and no room for additional housing.

- Gas going up with average at $2.80 a gallon 

salt available at Lowes with limit of 4 bags per person

- Midwiner break, begins later today with Girls schools off, some elementary boys schools off on Sunday 

-Iran Update" Iran warned ships near the Strait of Hormuz ahead of a live-fire military exercise as tensions rise. The EU designated Iran’s IRGC a terrorist organization, prompting Iran to warn it would respond immediately and forcefully to any U.S. attack. An Israeli official said airstrikes alone won’t topple Iran’s regime, suggesting ground forces would be needed. Meanwhile, Israel and the U.S. remain closely coordinated, with Israel’s military intelligence chief meeting White House officials this week.

- Many Vizhnitz Chassidim are traveling to Eretz Yisrael to mark 12 Shevat, a date they regard as the Rosh Hashanah of their Chassidus, celebrated with special gatherings and spiritual events.

- New Jersey Gov. Mikie Sherrill announced an online portal for residents to upload photos and videos of ICE operations, saying officials want transparency around federal immigration enforcement. She made the announcement on The Daily Show and criticized ICE’s conduct, referencing recent controversial shootings by immigration agents in Minneapolis.(njglobe)

- Trump sharply criticized Fed Chair Jerome Powell for refusing to cut interest rates, arguing rates are unnecessarily high, hurting the economy and national security, and costing the U.S. hundreds of billions in interest. He claims inflation is no longer a threat, tariffs are bringing in massive revenue and strengthening the country, and that the U.S. should have the lowest interest rates in the world. He urges the Fed to cut rates immediately.

- The man arrested for allegedly ramming his vehicle multiple times into a building housing the Chabad-Lubavitch World Headquarters has been identified as Dan Sohail, 36, of Carteret, New Jersey. He was inside 770 earlier yesterday and had spoken with bochurim. The suspect had also been seen at other Chabad centers in recent months. The man approached them near 770 and asked when the farbrengen for Yud Shevat was taking place. Footage online Shows Suspect in 770 Vehicle Ramming Had Been Inside Chabad Headquarters Weeks Earlier According to sources familiar with the encounter, the man told those inside the building that he was Jewish. Based on those statements, an impromptu bar mitzvah celebration was held, during which participants danced with him before he put on tefillin.

- Trump claimed Democrats have stopped talking about an “affordability crisis,” arguing prices for gas, groceries, travel, cars, and rent are falling, leaving Democrats with little to criticize economically.

- The BBC has issued an apology after its International Holocaust Memorial Day coverage failed to explicitly state that the six million people murdered by the Nazis were Jews, an omission that drew sharp criticism and was described as “hurtful, disrespectful and wrong,” according to a report in The Times.

- Trump posts on truth social : Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard has just released HUNDREDS OF BOMBSHELL RUSSIAGATE DOCUMENTS proving that Barack Obama personally ordered CIA agents to manufacture false intelligence on President Trump and was actively “working with the enemy” to undermine and erode Americans’ confidence in our democracy and President Trump’s LANDSLIDE 2016 VICTORY. This was a coup attempt by Barack Hussein Obama and his cronies… As Jesse Watters said “Whatever happens to these guys is not revenge… it’s accountability. And it’s time for people to pay the price.” ARREST OBAMA NOW!

- The Great Falls in Paterson, NJ continues to freeze over days after the massive weekend snowstorm. Walkways, benches and railings near the 77-foot tall waterfall were freezing on Wednesday following two straight days of bitterly cold temperatures

PSA: All township residents can apply for the Lakewood shuttle bus liason project offering up to $300k. Any Lakewood resident who believes they are capable of serving as a liaison may apply. See the proposal for application HERE must be in by Feb 2.

- Ocean County officials defended their response to last weekend’s snowstorm amid criticism that some county roads weren’t cleared for days. They say over 200 employees worked around the clock to maintain 630 miles of roads, making repeated plowing passes as snow continued to fall. Multiple county departments were involved, with Vehicle Services keeping plows operational. Officials urged patience, citing below-freezing temperatures and the threat of additional winter weather, and stressed that public safety remains the top priority.

- A 74-year-old homeless woman was found dead in her car in a Toms River Walmart parking lot. Authorities say the death is not suspicious. Advocates say the case highlights overcrowded warming shelters and a growing number of people in Ocean County living in cars and tents during the cold.

- Satmar rebbbe arrives back home in Monroe after spending winter vacation in Palm Springs

Mir Yerushalayim promo for a Adirei HaTorah style event in 2 weeks at a stadium in Yerushalayim gathering all the bnei yeshiva under one roof.

Hashkafa Q&A

Hashkafa With Rav Gershon Ribner Shlita

A baal Teshuva with a passion for dogs seeks acceptance in a Charaidy community Misconduct of a Rov that deserved being relieved of his responsibilities Cultural and religious shocks expected doing a shidduch of varying extractions Clutching basic Jewish beliefs in the face of hardships

Oif Simchas Wed 11 Shevat

Chasunas:

Weinglas - Friedman Lake Terrace 

Kleinbard  - Londismski Bais Faiga

Mintz - Gold Ateres Reva

Birnbaum - Rochworger Fountain Ballroom 

Kaufman - Dresdner Ateres Esther 

Burstyn- - Weisberg Ateres Blima 

Tonight low of  7° Clear skies. Very cold

- Learning program at Twillory in Toms River in conjunction with Artscroll followed by Siyum.

Wednesday January 28 News Updates Lakewood

Weather: 24° cloudy skies very cold.

NWS forecast for motzei shabbos Watching a potential winter storm. Cloudy with light snow developing after midnight. Chance of snow 40%. About one inch of snow is expected.

Update on weekend storm: Both the euro and Canadian models from overnight keep the weekend storm just offshore and a miss. The gfs currently stands alone with bringing it closer to the coast.

- Tonight A car rammed into one of the entrances of 770 Eastern Parkway Chabad Headquarters on Wednesday evening. NYPD and emergency crews are on the scene. No injuries reported driver was arrested on scene.

Mayor Zohran Mamdani, joined by NYPD Commissioner Jessica Tisch and and NYS Attorney General Tish James, visited 770 Eastern Parkway on Wednesday in the aftermath of a ramming attack on the building of Chabad Headquarters in Crown Heights.

The NYPD is investigating the incident which occurred at around 8:45 PM on Wednesday, as the Shul was packed with bochurim following a video screening event and many who were heading into the Shul for Farbrengens to mark Yud Shevat.

Mayor Mamdani wrote on X:

“I am at 770 Chabad World Headquarters in Crown Heights, where a man intentionally, and repeatedly, crashed his car into the building. I am relieved that no one was injured in this horrifying incident.

-  Trump Shares Clip Questioning Ilhan Omar 'Attack,' Suggests Staged Incident, Highlights Audience Member's Reaction new angle of the so-called Ilhan Omar "attack".

'Watch the nod then the immediate response from the guy in the front row. And after he sprays her with something, she has absolutely no concern about what it could be and continues.

- Bingo sale Salmon $6.99

- The vote on the Knesset’s 2026 state budget passed its first reading late on Wednesday night, after Shas and United Torah Judaism voted fkr for it . A slight majority of 62 MKs out of the 120 voted in favor of the budget proposal, while 55 opposed it. Agudath Yisroel MK voted against it.

-  5pm storm Update: A developing coastal storm is expected to intensify into a strong nor’easter or bomb cyclone this weekend, but its exact track remains uncertain. Northwestern New Jersey is increasingly likely to see little or no snow, while the best chance for snow is in southeastern New Jersey, especially along the coast from Monmouth to Cape May. If the storm hits, impacts would be Saturday night through Sunday, with strong winds and possible coastal flooding.

-  Wall Street Journal: Iran has already rejected the terms of the Trump administration. According to a senior official in the administration, Tehran will not compromise on "its right to continue enriching uranium for civilian purposes and to maintain its missile arsenal, which is essential for its defense"

- The FBI conducted activity at the Fulton County Election Hub and Operations Center in Georgia, allegedly connected to investigations related to the 2020 election.

- Update: The kinus  for avreichim tonight in BMG is to promote harbotzas HaTorah and encouraging Kollel yungelite to move to other cities for Torah learning. Reb Elya Ber Wachtfoigel  wrote a ketter praising those who make this sacrifice, saying it’s vital for the future of Torah. 

- President Trump announces new details on "Trump Accounts" for newborns at the initiative's launch in DC. “Over the next 15 years, we're going to put $3–$4 trillion dollars of wealth into the hands of young Americans who otherwise would have really started out with nothing. It's really an amazing thing.”

- An Atzeres Chizuk for Bnei Torah will take place this evening at 7:15 p.m. at Beth Medrash Govoh, Ateres Esther hall in the Herzka building, downstairs. Divrei chizuk will be delivered by the Rosh Yeshiva, HaRav Yisroel Neuman shlita, followed by a drasha by Harav Elya Chaim Swerdloff, Rosh Yeshivas Paterson, focusing on the role and mission of a Ben Torah in today’s times.

- The Lakewood Board of Education plans to approve up to $115,000 in taxpayer funds to fight a proposed state takeover of the financially troubled school district. The board is also set to authorize an additional $20,000 to defend Superintendent Laura Winters in an ongoing discrimination lawsuit filed by an assistant principal alleging denial of promotions based on race and age. APP

- Snow continues to pile up along township roads, leaving many streets reduced to a single drivable lane. Patches of ice remain on numerous roadways as temperatures stay below freezing. In previous storms, township crews used tractors to cart snow away, but that has not appeared to happen this time. Instead, snow is repeatedly pushed back and forth as residents clear parking spots, with shoveled snow often ending up blocking driveways again.

- Giyus: Two frum parties in Netanyahu’s coalition Degel HaTorah and Shas are expected to back the 2026 state budget in its first reading, allowing it to move forward after a two-day delay caused by disputes over a Charedi draft law. A Degel HaTorah spokesman said support is “the direction” things are heading, but stressed that no final decision has been made. The party’s spiritual leader, Rabbi Dov Lando, is still deliberating and will decide only after a meeting with Knesset Foreign Affairs and Defense Committee chair Boaz Bismuth about the conscription bill.

- The former Elks Lodge building on West Kennedy Boulevard is now the subject of an application to operate a school, with the applicant listed as Skver of Lakewood.

-- Vaccination rates among New Jersey children continue to decline as religious exemptions rise, raising concerns among public health experts about a possible resurgence of vaccine-preventable illnesses. According to the state Department of Health, 24,962 children were exempted from vaccines for religious reasons in the 2024–25 school year a nearly 25% increase from the prior year. While this represents only 5% of all pre-K, kindergarten, first grade, sixth grade, and transfer students, it is almost three times higher than a decade ago. Ocean County leads with 3,773 exemptions (10.5%), followed by Monmouth County with 3,000 exemptions (9.1%).

- TAG will hold an asifa for women in Lakewood on Wednesday, February 4, at Lakewood Middle School. Speakers will include Rav Elya Ber Wachtfogel, Rav Dovid Bresslauer, and Rav Malkiel Kotler, and the program will focus on issues related to AI.

- President Trump just released this statement regarding the USS Abraham Lincoln strike fleet and Iran: "A massive Armada is heading to Iran. It is moving quickly, with great power, enthusiasm, and purpose. It is a larger fleet, headed by the great Aircraft Carrier Abraham Lincoln, than that sent to Venezuela. Like with Venezuela, it is, ready, willing, and able to rapidly fulfill its mission, with speed and violence, if necessary. Hopefully Iran will quickly “Come to the Table” and negotiate a fair and equitable deal - NO NUCLEAR WEAPONS - one that is good for all parties. Time is running out, it is truly of the essence! As I told Iran once before, MAKE A DEAL! They didn’t, and there was “Operation Midnight Hammer,” a major destruction of Iran. The next attack will be far worse! Don’t make that happen again. Thank you for your attention to this matter! President DONALD J. TRUMP"

- A petition effort to recall Toms River Mayor Daniel Rodrick has failed after organizers fell short of the required signatures. The group collected 16,963 valid signatures by the Jan. 26 deadline, below the 18,464 needed to trigger a special recall election. Rodrick criticized the failed recall attempt and compared himself to former President Donald Trump.

- Trump: Surprisingly, Mayor Jacob Frey just stated that, “Minneapolis does not, and will not, enforce Federal Immigration Laws.” This is after having had a very good conversation with him. Could somebody in his inner sanctum please explain that this statement is a very serious violation of the Law, and that he is PLAYING WITH FIRE!

- The Chief Rabbinate of Israel has issued a serious kashrus warning after discovering major failures in nikkur on frozen beef imported from Paraguay. As a result, issurei cheilev were found in popular asado cuts that were sold as kosher. The problem appears to span multiple shechita and production seasons over roughly two years, meaning large quantities may already be in private homes, butcher shops, and institutional kitchens. Consumers are urged to check the origin of their meat and follow Rabbanut guidance immediately.

Israel News Wed Jan 28

- Hundreds pay last respects at funeral of Israel’s final hostage, Ran Gvili, in Meitar netanyahu said "The closing of the grave of Ran Gvili seals the painful reality of the presence of Israeli hostages in the Gaza Strip. All of them, the living and the deceased, we have brought them all home from enemy territory."

- KLM has canceled plans to resume flights to Tel Aviv, announcing that service to Ben Gurion Airport will remain suspended indefinitely due to ongoing security concerns amid heightened regional tensions.

- Israel is reviewing reports that the US and Iran are holding quiet talks and that Washington has set preconditions for possible negotiations toward a new nuclear deal. Israeli officials are worried any agreement could be unfavorable from Israel’s perspective. Meanwhile, President Trump sent a message to Iran saying he prefers a deal but warned that an additional US naval force is heading to the region.

- Israel has cleared land in southern Gaza for the construction of a camp for Palestinians, potentially equipped with surveillance and facial recognition technology at its entrance, retired Brig.-Gen. (res.) Amir Avivi told Reuters in an interview. 

- Hamas says it is ready to transfer the governance of Gaza to a Palestinian technocratic committee, while insisting the key Rafah Border Crossing be fully reopened within days, per the recent announcement of the technocratic committee’s chair.

- PM Netanyahu: We agreed to open the Rafah crossing; those who exit and those who enter undergo our full inspection. We are responsible for security at the Rafah crossing; the PA only issues a stamp for some visas. I don't think the Palestinian Authority will enter to manage Gaza, because the conditions President Trump presented to them are as long as the distance from here to Cyprus and back.

- A suspect in a potential terror stabbing at the Tunnels crossing near Yerushalayim was neutralized on Wednesday afternoon, the IDF and Israel Police confirmed.

No injuries have been reported, and IDF and police personnel are on the scene investigating the incident.

Oif Simchas Tuesday 10 Shevat

Chasunas:

Rottenberg - Gartenhause Ateres Reva

Tenenbaum - Berenbaum Fountain Ballroom 

Drandoff - Maza Kesser Moshe Yehuda  (both sides from out of town would appreciate locals joining the simcha)

Greenspan  - Packer Cedar Palace 

Levy -  Lehman Ateres Chaim Elazar

Rosenberg - Laskin Ateres Blima 

Fallas  - Lancz Ateres Esther 

Weather tonight low of 11° Mostly clear. Very cold.

Tuesday January 27 News Updates Lakewood

Weather: 26° Cloudy skies. Flurries or snow showers possible late Winds at 10 to 20 mph.

Forecasters are tracking a potential coastal storm that could bring snow to New Jersey late Saturday into Sunday. While the chance for impactful snow and wind has increased, meteorologists say the storm’s track remains uncertain and confidence is still low as of Tuesday.

Democrat Rep. Ilhan Omar was sprayed by a man wielding a syringe with an unknown liquid during a town hall event in Minneapolis, while calling for the resignation of Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem

- Jackson council meeting tonight watch Here

- Trump on Iran: “There is another beautiful armada floating beautifully toward Iran right now, so we will see. I hope they make a deal. I hope they make a deal.”

- Netanyahu: We are on the verge of completing the passage of the Draft Law. I hope we’ll pass both the budget and the Draft Law. 

- Giyus law ready for vote in Knesset 

Boaz Bismuth announced that the Knesset’s Foreign Affairs and Defense Committee has finished reviewing all sections of the Draft Law and is close to voting on it. He emphasized that after years of delays, the law is finally advancing toward approval, framing it as a historic step that will strengthen both the Israeli military and society.

- Netanyahu Blames Biden administration: Our fighters fell because we didn't have enough ammunition due to arms embargo. That changed when Trump took office.

- 3pm Update on next storm: A potential coastal storm could impact New Jersey next weekend (late Saturday, 1/31, into Sunday or early Monday). Chances of snow have increased slightly to 40–50%, though it’s still too early to call a hit or miss due to the storm’s uncertainty. Three scenarios remain: total miss (30%), direct hit (10%), or a “coast hugger” impacting southern and eastern areas (60%). Precipitation is expected to begin Saturday night, with Sunday as the main storm day. Overall, there’s a good chance New Jersey sees some snow, but exact amounts and locations remain unclear. Nj1015 weather 

- Lakewood, NJ – Emergency Power Outage: An emergency power outage is planned this afternoon, January 27, for northeast Lakewood while crews make urgent electrical repairs. About 4,872 customers may lose service between 3:00 p.m. and 5:00 p.m. Officials say the outage is necessary for safety and to prevent more extensive damage. Affected residents will receive reverse notifications.

- Another frum radio station has gone live on the FM dial in the Lakewood area. Station 88.7 FM features Jewish music and English-language shiurim, joining 104.7 and 107.9 FM and giving local listeners three frum radio options while sitting in traffic.

- President Trump says he told Tim Walz and Jacob Frey to just GIVE UP their criminals.

"If they do that, then it all goes away!" "They have criminals, and all I said is, 'just give us your criminals.'"

- An ICE raid took place yesterday in Toms River, near Whitesville Road, resulting in several individuals being detained.

- Howell, NJ Route 9 Alert: Heavy traffic reported near Howell ShopRite after a truck took down a utility pole, causing a power outage.

- Jewish community sources in Iran reported this afternoon that there were no Jewish fatalities or injuries during the protests, contradicting online reports. They added that members of the community did not take part in anti-regime demonstrations.

Several community members were reportedly detained “by mistake” on suspicion of involvement in the protests, and community leaders said they hope the individuals will be released soon.

- Chavivim roadside assistance of Ocean county has responded to hundreds of calls during and after the storm. To reach Chavivim dial 718-871-7299. 

- Chavivim PSA: Multiple reports of Honda Odyssey vehicles experiencing window closure issues during wet weather. If you have a 2023 model and up please avoid opening windows during rain or snow,it may not close properly 

- Some Gulf officials privately believe a major U.S. strike on Iran is "likely" and that President Trump would probably target Iran’s political leadership, according to The Economist.

- Lakewood: A snowboarder being towed by a vehicle on Faraday Avenue lost control, veered into oncoming traffic, and was struck late Sunday night. The rider was hospitalized in stable condition. The driver will face summonses and charges for endangering another person.

- Giyus: Amid rising tensions within the coalition, the Knesset’s Foreign Affairs and Security Committee held another discussion today on the draft of the conscription law, as the legislation nears its final stages. At the same time, the Charedi parties face a critical decision: whether to continue advancing the law even without clear legal backing, given the ongoing disagreement with the committee’s legal advisors.

- Iran issues warning to U.S. Navy: An AI-generated video released on channels linked to the Islamic Revolutionary Guards Corps, titled “Message to the aircraft carrier Lincoln,” depicts vessels, cruise missiles, and Iranian naval activity. The video appears intended to send a deterrent message.

- After 29 years, the pizzeria side of Shalom Pizza  in Philadelphia will be closing in early March. The restaurant has been operating under the supervision of Keystone K Kosher Hashgacha.

- Security officials in Lebanon estimate, via a media outlet from the United Arab Emirates, that even if the United States takes action in Iran, Hezbollah will not intervene immediately unless it concludes that the Trump administration’s goal is to overthrow the regime.Amit Segal 

- Hostages Square Clock Stops After 843 Days At 5:35 p.m., the clock at Hostages Square which had been counting the 843 days and 12 hours since 251 people were abducted into Gaza was stopped in a symbolic moment of closure. The move follows yesterday’s return of the final hostage held in the Strip, Master Sgt. Ran Gvili.

- NJ.com reports on Lakewood’s school board that it will fight the state’s plan to take over its school district, arguing the unusual move is “neither warranted nor in the best interest” of the Ocean County community.

-  Giyus: IDF representative  in the knesset estimates: ‘80% of draft evaders and those who have received arrest warrants come from the charedi  community.’”

Tuesday Snow Storm Updates

- Tremps will hit 24 today with sun at 12 pm but not enough to melt the ice on the surfaces 

Many roads remain icy after the storm. Too many streets weren’t properly cleared, leaving turn lanes and sides buried and roads reduced to single lanes. With temperatures below freezing all week, conditions remain dangerous

- Forecasters are tracking a potential coastal storm that could bring snow to New Jersey late Saturday into Sunday. While the chance for impactful snow and wind has increased, meteorologists say the storm’s track remains uncertain and confidence is still low as of Tuesday.

.

- LPD Alert: There is a widespread power outage affecting areas throughout town, including multiple traffic signals. Emergency personnel are actively responding to restore service. Please use extreme caution when traveling.

-A chaotic morning unfolded after a car crashed into a utility pole, knocking out power along Oak Street, Vine, Chestnut, and the Lakewood Commons area. Schools announced closures as traffic gridlocked on Oak Street, leaving parents already en route with their children unsure where to go.

- Cedarbridge Avenue with many Icy spots residents can call the Ocean County Road Dept

732-929-2133

- The Lakewood Branch of Ocean County Library will have a delayed opening at 1:00PM.

- Lakewood public schools are closed today 

כי סגולה מיוחדת לפרנסה לומר את פרשת המן, שניים מקרא ואחד תרגום, ביום שלישי בשבוע שקוראים בו פרשת בשלח

סגולה לפרנסה לומר בכל יום את פרשת המן. עניין זה מוזכר כבר ב'ארבעה טורים' (אורח חיים סי' שא - 'טוב לומר פרשת המן'), ומרן הבית יוסף ביאר "כדי שיאמין שכל מזונותיו באין לו בהשגחה", וב'פרישה': "בירושלמי דברכות איתא, כל האומר פרשת המן בכל יום, מובטח לו שלא יתמעטו מזונותיו". לגבי אמירת פרשת המן בשבת, פסק רבינו בעל ה'באר היטב': (סימן א' סעיף קטן ט') "וגם בשבת יוכל לומר פרשת המן". היו שנהגו להוסיף תפילות ובקשות על פרנסה לאחר אמירת פרשת המן, אולם בשבת אין לומר את התפילות. וכן ידוע ומפורסם בין החסידים בשם הרה"ק רבי מנחם מנדל מרימינוב זצוק"ל זיע"א כי סגולה מיוחדת לומר את פרשת המן (שניים מקרא ואחד תרגום) ביום שלישי בשבוע שקוראים בו את פרשת בשלח

יְהִי רָצוֹן מִלְּפָנֶיךָ יְיָ אֱלֹהֵינוּ וֵאלֹהֵי אֲבוֹתֵינוּ שֶׁתַּזְמִין פַּרְנָסָה לְכָל עַמְּךָ בֵּית יִשְׂרָאֵל וּפַרְנָסָתִי וּפַרְנָסַת אַנְשֵׁי בֵיתִי בִּכְלָלָם. בְּנַחַת וְלֹא בְּצַעַר בְּכָבוֹד וְלֹא בְּבִזּוּי בְּהֶתֵּר וְלֹא בְּאִסּוּר כְּדֵי שֶׁנּוּכַל לַעֲבוֹד עֲבוֹדָתֶךָ וְלִלְמוֹד תּוֹרָתֶךָ כְּמוֹ שֶׁזַנְתָּ לַאֲבוֹתֵינוּ מָן בַּמִּדְבָּר בְּאֶרֶץ צִיָּה וַעֲרָבָה:

Oif simchas Monday 9 Shevat

Chasunas:

Kagan - Lopian Fountain 

Gurevitz - Schanowitz Kesser Moshe Yehuda 

Schoenblum - Berman Ateres Esther 

Weather low of 12° Mainly clear. Very cold

Tomorrow  פרשת המן Tuesday  פרשת בשלח

Monday January 26 News Updates Lakewood

- Dangerous cold comes this week with several nights featuring single digit temperatures and wind chills below zero. Some record lows and record low highs  may be in jeopardy later this week. The stretch begins tonight, with a Cold Weather Advisory in place for the entire area.

- LSTA: There will be a 90 minute delay for Tomorrow Tuesday morning bus transportation for all  girl schools elementary and high school.

Boys schools are on a regular schedule. 

Make sure kids have a safe place to stand at their bus stop as the sidewalks may be covered with snow mounds

- Officials in the Middle East are increasingly worried the United States will strike Iran in the coming days, an attack that could trigger a cycle of retaliation against U.S. bases across the region by Iran and its proxy groups.

If the White House were to order a strike on Iran, the USS Abraham Lincoln carrier could take action within a day or two, military officials say - NYT

- Trump: just had a very good telephone conversation with Mayor Jacob Frey, of Minneapolis. Lots of progress is being made! Tom Homan will be meeting with him tomorrow in order to continue the discussion. Thank you for your attention to this matter! PRESIDENT DONALD J. TRUMP

- Trump increases tariffs on South Korea for autos, lumber, pharma, and all other reciprocal tariffs, from 15% to 25%.

- Trump: I am pleased to report that Venezuela is releasing its Political Prisoners at a rapid rate, which rate will be increasing over the coming short period of time. I’d like to thank the leadership of Venezuela for agreeing to this powerful humanitarian gesture! PRESIDENT DONALD J. TRUMP

- The Jerusalem Post reports that the administration is examining the possibility of imposing a naval blockade on Iran that would prevent it from exporting oil.

- New Jersey Governor Mikie Sherrill has lifted the State of Emergency for all 21 counties in the state, as the storm has now completely ended.

All speed restrictions on state highways are now lifted as well.

- The National Weather Service is monitoring a possible coastal storm next weekend, but it’s too early to tell if New Jersey will be affected.

- Mid Winter vacation in Florida? A strong Arctic blast from Canada will bring Florida’s coldest air of the season this week, with Sunday morning lows in the teens (North), 20s (Central), and 30s (South). Wind chills may reach single digits in northern counties, though the Keys may be spared.

- Axios: President Trump says that the situation with Iran is "in flux" because he sent a "big armada" to the region but thinks the regime genuinely wants to cut a deal. American officials: Iran must change its policy on supporting its proxies in the region

- A senior Iranian military official said U.S. aircraft carriers are not a deterrent but potential targets, claiming Iran closely monitors threats. He said Iran will not start a war but will respond to any threat, warning that any surprise attack would fail and quickly escalate.

- U.S. Senator Ted Cruz: "There is a tangible, dangerous antisemitic contingent on the right. That is gaining traction, gaining popularity, being listened to by young people, and gaining attention."

- storm next weekend..latest Gfs model keeps most of the storm offshore for now

- The Skulener rebbe of lakewood will be spending this coming shabbos parshas Shira in the southern part of town 

-  A wedding in Lakewood yesterday that was moved up because of the storm ended up lasting about nine and a half hours, from 12:00 p.m. until the mitzvah tantz ended at 9:30 p.m.

-Lakewood cleanup has been uneven, with some areas not touched at all while others saw trucks come by multiple times. Major county roads like Cedarbridge Avenue were a sheet of ice earlier today, and there’s still a lot of cleanup left, especially with the challenge of where to put all the snow. County roads were neglected too.

- Howell Township's Office of Emergency Management reminds residents that sidewalks must be cleared of snow within 12 daylight hours of snowfall stopping.

- Bnei Hayeshiva in BMG were treaded with daniahes as a philanthropist sponsored today's learning in memory of his father

- The USS Abraham Lincoln Aircraft Carrier Strike Group has now entered CENTCOM waters in the Indian Ocean, according to a senior US official, but is not yet on station for any possible future strikes against Iran.

- Trump claims major media polls were deliberately false to influence the 2020 election, which he says he won in a landslide. He calls fraudulent polling a “scam,” criticizes mainstream outlets and even Fox and WSJ, and vows to fight misleading polling practices.

- Giyus: At a meeting with the Knesset’s legal adviser, charedi leaders were told there are major legal obstacles to passing the conscription law. In response, Deri and Gafni said they will block the state budget unless the law is passed.

- Ahead of midwinter vacation, schools are sending parents notifications outlining the rules and allowed options.

- Trump: I am sending Tom Homan to Minnesota tonight. He has not been involved in that area, but knows and likes many of the people there. Tom is tough but fair, and will report directly to me. Separately, a major investigation is going on with respect to the massive 20 Billion Dollar, Plus, Welfare Fraud that has taken place in Minnesota, and is at least partially responsible for the violent organized protests going on in the streets. Additionally, the DOJ and Congress are looking at “Congresswoman” Illhan Omar, who left Somalia with NOTHING, and is now reportedly worth more than 44 Million Dollars. Time will tell all. Thank you for your attention to this matter! President DJT

- The FBI has located the people who have funded anti-ICE insurrections and riots in Minnesota Kash Patel: "Investigations ongoing, we made substantialL progress. I can't publicize it. But we found funders, it's not organic!"

- Hundreds of flights were canceled Monday and Tuesday at Newark Liberty and other nearby airports after the storm. On Monday alone, 4,213 U.S. flights were canceled, including more than 1,100 at major New York–New Jersey airports, while only a small number of cancellations are reported so far for Tuesday.

The Admor M'Bishtina trekking to davening  in the Lakewood snow

Israel News Monday Jan 26

Day 843

- IDF finds final slain hostage Ran Gvili HYD in Gaza cemetery, now bringing his body back to Israel for burial He was the last hostage remaining in Gaza.

Gvili’s remains ID’d by dental, fingerprint match; 250 bodies were checked

- Netanyahu makes a Bracha of Shehecheyanu and  removes the pin of the hostages: "We have completed this mission, as I promised, and so we will complete the rest of the missions we have set."

- President Trump reacts to the recovery of the final Israeli hostage remains:

“Just recovered the last Hostage body in GAZA. Thus, got back ALL 20 of the living Hostages, and ALL of the Dead! AMAZING JOB! Most thought of it as an impossible thing to do. Congratulations to my great team of Champions!!! President DJT,” he said on Truth Social.

- Talik Gvili (Ran's father): "We closed the circle - he finally came home, unbelievable. They found him intact, dressed in his uniform. It's an amazing thing. Our pride is greater than the sadness. The funeral is currently planned for next Wednesday. We still can't process that they found Rani."

- Jared Kushner All Israeli hostages in Gaza living and decease l have now been returned for the first time since 2014, following the recovery of Ran Gvili’s body. Kushner credits international coordination under Trump’s leadership and says the focus now is helping Gaza move beyond Hamas to prevent future violence.

- Sources at the White House to Yinon Magal from Ch 14: "You have no idea how many people cried here today at the White House. We worked on this project relentlessly! As if they were Americans. We could have given up weeks ago, but we didn't. It should be noted that there was very sensitive and ongoing cooperation with the Egyptians, who connected all the parties together. Now we move to the next stage: very soon a major plan will be published, which will also include the disarmament of Gaza and the dismantling of Hamas's weapons. It is likely they will say yes and try to deceive... but Jared and Steve are not naive. No one believed we would bring everyone back, and we did it! And so it will be with the dismantling of Hamas. There are several options regarding the timelines: short, medium, and long. In Gaza, the easy way is the wrong way. Soon the Rafah crossing will open, in a safe manner, so that no weapons enter Gaza. We hope for the best and prepare for the worst."

- President Herzog removes his yellow hostage pin

- Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu says that the return of the body of Master Sgt. Ran Gvili “is an extraordinary achievement for Israel.”

“We promised, and I promised, to bring everyone back, and we brought everyone back,” he says, “to the very last one.”

“Rani is a hero of Israel. He went in first, he came out last. He came back,”

- Netanyahu in the Knesset: "The next stage is the disarmament of Hamas and the demilitarization of Gaza - not rehabilitation. We have an interest in advancing this stage and not delaying it."

- The army says that the intelligence indicating Gvili was buried at the cemetery in eastern Gaza City had been known for a while, though recently the picture was made clearer by intelligence-gathering operations and information confirmed by Hamas to Israel via mediators. The army says that the intelligence indicating Gvili was buried at the cemetery in eastern Gaza City had been known for a while, though recently the picture was made clearer by intelligence-gathering operations and information confirmed by Hamas to Israel via mediators.