Friday, November 21, 2025

Lakewood Zmanim עש"ק פרשת תולדות ראש חודש כסלו תשפ"ו

Friday, November 21, 2025 /  א׳ כסלו תשפ״ו ערב שבת פרשת תולדות ראש חודש כסלו

Candle lighting 4:17 pm 
Shkiah/Sunset 4:35 pm

Weather:
 Friday night 46° A few showers early becoming a steady rain overnight. Chance of rain 80%. Rainfall around a quarter of an inch.

Shabbos day 50° Light rain early. A mix of sun and clouds in the afternoon. Chance of rain 70%.

- This Shabbos 2 Kislev is the Yahrtzeit of  Rav Aharon Kotler ZTL (1892-1962) and The Mashgiach Rav Nosson Meir Wachtfogel ZTL

וְיִתֶּן לְךָ הָאֱלהִים מִטַּל הַשָּׁמַיִם וּמִשְׁמַנֵּי הָאָרֶץ, וְרֹב דָגָן וְתִירֹשׁ וְאֵל שַׁדַּי יְבָרֵךְ אֹתְךָ וְיַפְרְךָ וְיַרְבֶּךָ, וְהָיִיתָ לִקְהַל עַמִּים.

שבת שלום ומבורך


Friday Rosh Chodesh Kislev November 21 News Updates Lakewood

Friday, November 21, 2025 / א׳ כסלו תשפ״ו
ערב שבת פרשת תולדות ראש חודש כסלו

Candle lighting 4:17 pm
Shkiah/Sunset 4:35 pm


- Powerball lottery drawing motzei shabbos 11pm Estimated Jackpot $629 Million
Cash Value $291.6 Million

- This Shabbos marks the yartzeits of Rav Aharon  Kotler zatzal and Rav Nosson Wachtfogel zatzal There will be a shiur zikaron delivered by Rav malkiel Kotler shlita between Kabolas shabbos and Maariv in the Yoshon B"M. A Melava Malka  and siyum Hashas will be held on Motzei Shabbos, featuring divrei zikaron from Rav Malkiel Kotler shlita and Rav Elya Ber Wachtfogel shlita.at the Yeshiva dining hall 9:00 pm

- The Lakewood Daf Yomi chaburah, currently on a Yarchei Kallah in Eretz Yisroel, are spending Shabbos in Teveria at a hotel on the Kinneret.

- The Satmar Rebbe, Rav Aharon, is spending Shabbos in Meron together with thousands of chasidim, creating an atmosphere described as reminiscent of Lag BaOmer. On Motzei Shabbos, there will be a hadlaka at chatzos near the kever of Rashbi.

- Chasidei Spink are celebrating a shabbos aufruf this week at the bais Medrash in the Ridge area  615 Bergen st Lakewood 

- The Kozmir Rebbe, who is visiting Lakewood on behalf of his institutions, is staying at the home of the philanthropist R' Chaim Atlas.

- Oraysa Global siyum this Sunday night at the Cure arena in Trenton theres a special arrangement for bochurim $20 a seat call  718.521.2006

- After niturei karta rallied outside  the Park east synagogue  in New York hosting a Nefesh B’Nefesh event promoting Aliya to Israel, New York City’s mayor elect Mamdani chose not to rebuke them. Instead, he accused the Aliyah event itself of promoting violations of international law. His spokesperson followed with a statement that sacred spaces should not be used for activity that “breaches international law.”

- Governor-elect of NJ Mikie Sherrill, who will be sworn in on January 20,  said she will select an Attorney General who’s “willing to take on the Trump administration.”

- Trump to Meet NYC Mayor-Elect Mamdani in Oval Office The closed-press meeting at 3 p.m

- CNN: As the first year of President Trump's second term in the White House nears completion, the news network claims that Trump is expected to conduct a "shake-up" in his cabinet. The most notable among them is the office of Kristi Noem, the Department of Homeland Security

- Rav Kalman Epstein, Rosh Yeshiva of Shaar HaTorah in Queens, remarked that during Covid people stopped making big, fancy weddings, and we thought this would inspire a real change in our community. We hoped the simplicity would continue even after Covid  that we would return to the basics, living a life of hatzne’a leches, without 20-man bands and fancy shmorgs at weddings and without the pressure to show off.

Today, the airport in Lakewood is filled with private planes. But that is not who we are supposed to be. Yidden are meant to live without extravagance and without displaying wealth. When we immerse ourselves too much in gashmiyus, we inevitably lose ruchniyus; excessive materialism stands in direct contradiction to kirvas Elokim. Unfortunately, the lessons of the Covid era did not bring lasting change.

Similarly, during the recent tekufah of the hostages, we should have refrained from extravagance as well to share in the pain. In Eretz Yisroel, some gedolim slept on a simple board to feel the pain of the captives. An 11-year-old boy in Lakewood slept without a pillow for 2 years for the same reason. We should take this to heart even though we are not required to take on discomfort, we should at least be misbonen and recognize what truly matters. As a mamleches kohanim, we must live without unnecessary luxury and avoid letting gashmiyus define us.One hopes that after these difficult years, we will all absorb the lessons about what the truly important things in life are. May we be zocheh to see the bracha of Rosh Chodesh  a new beginning filled with geulos and yeshuos.

- Audio: Rav Meir Tzvi Bergman shlita decries the danger of the pending Giyus draft bill that calls for recruitment of 50% of Yeshiva bochurim and shades on frum boys 



- In Kiryas Yoel this Motzoei Shabbos, a centralized Havdala will be held for all the women whose husbands have traveled to Eretz Yisroel to spend Shabbos with the Satmar Rebbe in Meron.

- APP: A 41-year-old social worker and business owner who described the Board of Education’s challenges as “difficult and thorny” will soon join the board after getting more than 5,000 write-in votes, according to officials.Joel Kleinman, a 15-year Lakewood resident and parent, won the seat with 5,005 write-ins out of 8,641 cast in the Nov. 4 election. Due to the large write-in turnout, it took more than two weeks to count all the ballots, officials said.

Hisachdus Harabonim letter against the Draft bill
Front page of Hapeles newspaper today





Thursday, November 20, 2025

Oif Simchas Thursday ראש חודש כסלו תשפ"ו

Rosh Chodesh יעלה ויבוא
Chasunas:
Rosenblum - Hirsch Cedar Palace
Kessler -Engel Neemas Hachaim 
Landa - Godfrey Ateres Esther
Kirsch - Fried Ateres Blima 
Schepansky - Zelik Fountain Ballroom 

Off shabbos welcome home bochurim 

 Kabolas Panim for Rav Yitzchok Abuchatzira shlita at 229 Benjamin street Toms River 10:30 pm

Bikur cholim parlor meeting for Coventry square at the coventry club house 

Parlor meeting for Almana and Yesomim, 3 New York CT Jackson 

 Niggun Rosh Chodesh Kislev

Thursday November 20 News Updates Lakewood

 Thursday, November 20, 2025 / כ״ט חשון תשפ״ו  ערב ראש חודש כסלו shkia 4:36 pm

Weather: 49° A mix of clouds and sun. High 49F. Winds light and variable.


Heavy traffic and road closures in Lakewood tonight on a busy Thursday evening . Central Ave closed off at Rt 9 other detours along rt 9

- Eric Trump said that if New York Assemblymember Zohran Mamdani tries to “showboat” during Donald Trump’s upcoming Oval Office meeting, it will “backfire.” He claimed that Donald Trump performs especially well in confrontational moments and would respond strongly if challenged. Eric Trump added that no one “showboats” better than his father, suggesting Mamdani should reconsider attempting anything of the sort.

- Torah Umesorah 69th Annual Convention underway this weekend at Kalahari Resort Pocono Manor, PA

- A meeting took place Thursday evening in Bnei Brak, as Rav Moshe Hillel Hirsch, arrived at the home  Rav Meir Tzvi Bergman to discuss the Giyus law. Rav Bergman who is on the moetzes of Degel HaTorah has spoken out strongly against any compromise or quotas on yeshiva bochurim. Rav Moshe Hillel a d Rav Div have given a green light to continue with the current version of the draft bill..

- President Trump addresses Israeli hostages and their families at the Whitehouse today: “You’re not a hostage anymore… today you’re heroes”

- A Kinus Zikaron will take place today in BMG to commemorate the yahrtzeits of Rav Aharon Kotler zatzal and Rav Nosson Wachtfogel zatzal. Divrei zikaron will be delivered by Rav Yerucham Olshin shlita and Rav Shlomo Eisenberger shlita in Beren Hall at 6:15 PM. A Melava Malka  and siyum Hashas will be held on Motzei Shabbos, featuring divrei zikaron from Rav Malkiel Kotler shlita and Rav Eliy Ber Wachtfogel shlita.at the Yeshiva dining hall 9:00 pm

-  The levaya of Habachur Elchonon Fasten z”l will take place at 1 PM today at 1206 Hickory Street in Toms River. Kevurah will take place in the Belzer Chelka at Har Shalom Bais Hachaim in Airmont near Monsey.

- Local supermarkets in Lakewood are warning customers to carefully review their credit card statements after skimming devices were discovered at several area stores.

- Trump calls for Democrats who told military to violate orders to be arrested as seditious traitors in response to a video by  by Sen. Elissa Slotkin and featuring Sens. Mark Kelly, Reps. Jason Crow, Chris Deluzio, Chrissy Houlahan, and Maggie Goodlander, stresses that personnel must refuse illegal orders under the Uniform Code of Military Justice. Trump “This is really bad, and Dangerous to our Country. Their words cannot be allowed to stand. SEDITIOUS BEHAVIOR FROM TRAITORS!!! LOCK THEM UP??? President DJT”

 - Trump and Vice President J.D. Vance were not invited to attend former Vice President Dick Cheney’s funeral  today at the National Cathedral. The snub underscores the deep rift between Cheney’s legacy and his daughter Liz Cheney  and Trump’s wing of the Republican Party

-The Lakewood Shopper newspaper is tackling the ongoing Lakewood traffic crisis, calling on residents to contribute ideas. The paper is urging the community to participate in a meeting with local officials to brainstorm solutions and explore what can realistically be done to ease congestion. see Here

-Ahead of Chanukah, consumers should expect higher prices on sufganiyot this year, especially with the introduction of Dubai-style, premium chocolate–inspired donuts. While olive oil prices have fallen by about half this November, the decrease may not be reflected in retail prices by Chanukah. In addition, tariffs are expected to drive up the cost of many Chanukah gifts, particularly consumer electronics, clothing, and toys.

- Attorney Mordechai Beitz, who represents the Ponovezh faction of Rav Shmuel Markovitz, says that the arbitration ruling issued by David Hashin in the Ponovezh Yeshiva dispute may be delayed. He described the latest decision as “devastating, baseless, something that could not possibly have been issued according to Torah law, and reflective of genuine malice.” According to him, the ruling — which orders the removal of hundreds of bochurim, avreichim, and families — is unprecedented and unlike anything ever seen in the yeshiva world. He added, “We will file a request to annul the arbitration ruling and seek a stay of execution.”

- Rav Moshe Sternbuch with a pleas to American Yidden: "Never be מוותר on Judaism! My Brothers in Chutz L'Aretz Don't Be Silent!" He warns those in chutz laaretz can also face a similar fate as authorities target yeshiva bochurim and arrest them see video below

- Giyus Update: Shas has been instructed by its Moetzet Chachmei HaTorah to advance the draft draft law in the Knesset’s Foreign Affairs and Defense Committee, aligning with the Degel HaTorah faction. Other gedolei Yisrael have vehemently opposed any bill that would impose quotas, including on those who are not learning full-time.

- The protesters gather outside the Park East Synagogue in Manhattan to protest an event by Nefesh B’nefesh, a group that helps Jews immigrate to Israel

-NJ superintendent salaries:  Five NJ school superintendents earn over $300,000 in 2025, data shows The average salary for school superintendents across New Jersey increased less than 2% last school year, but some of the top earners made well over $300,000, the latest state data shows. Superintendent salaries local Ocean county

Howell Township  $256,900
Jackson Township   $232,615 
Lacey Township $212,000 
Lakewood Township  $245,140
Toms River  $219,300
Manchester Township $200,850
Brick Township  $235,500

- A group of Neturei Karta protesters gathered outside the Park East Synagogue in Manhattan to demonstrate against an event organized by Nefesh B’Nefesh, an organization that assists Jews with immigration to Israel.

- Trustees of the financially struggling Maimonides Hospital in Borough park Brooklyn have filed a lawsuit to block a proposed government takeover of the 80-year-old institution. Hospital leadership plans to merge with NYC Health + Hospitals, which would convert Maimonides from a private facility into a city-run hospital overseen by officials appointed by the mayor. As part of the deal, Maimonides would receive $2.2 billion over five years in state funding. However, hospital trustees and many Borough Park residents particularly members of the Jewish community, oppose the merger, fearing that the quality of care would significantly decline under public management.

- A lucky Ocean County couple just won $3 million on a scratch-off ticket after already winning $1 million on a scratch-off back on April 1. No fooling!

- The New Jersey Lottery announced that a NJ couple with two children and a third on the way beat the two million to one odds to win the grand prize in the rewly-released Jackpot Millions game on Nov. 13. The couple purchased the $30 ticket at the Fischer Bay Exxon on Fischer Boulevard in Toms River.

- Satmar Event at Shneller in Yerushalayim 

Rav Moshe Sternbuch: "Never be מוותר on Judaism! ...My Brothers in Chutz L'Aretz Don't Be Silent!"

Minyanim for Mincha and Yom Kippur Koton Erev Rosh Chodesh Kislev 5786

Minyanim for Mincha and Yom Kippur Koton ערב ראש חודש כסלו תשפ"ו
 Rosh Chodesh Kislev is on Friday

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

- Satmar Forest ave 12:40 1:30, 2:30, 3:30, 4:30

Israel News Thurs Nov 20

Day 776 

- A salvaged mezuzah from the burned home of twins Gali and Ziv Berman of Kibbutz Kfar Aza was presented to President Donald Trump on Thursday, during a White House meeting with 17 captivity survivors, freed about a month ago, who are gathering with the President in the Oval Office.

- President Trump meets with freed Israeli hostages thanks to his peacemaking "You're not a hostage anymore. Today, you're HEROES!" 
 26 former hostages arrived at the White House for a meeting with President Trump, one month after their release from Gaza in the U.S.-brokered ceasefire.

- PM Netanyahu clarifies he will arrive in New York despite Mamdani’s threat that he will arrest him.
 
 IDF: Two senior Hamas members were eliminated, including a terrorist who held Nimrod Cohen and David Cunio captive

- Hamas members, alongside Red Cross representatives, were allowed into the Zeitoun neighborhood of Gaza City earlier today to search for the body of a hostage, according to Palestinian and Arab media reports.

- Qatar warns yesterday’s strikes on Gaza threaten to upend ceasefire agreement

- Hamas terrorists trapped in the tunnel in Rafah have been cut off from communication since last weekend. Security sources estimate that some of them were eliminated following the IDF's recent offensive activities, and that others have been unable to establish contact.

- France agreed to deploy 100 security personnel to Gaza

Wednesday, November 19, 2025

Oif Simchas Wed 29 Cheshvan

Chasunas:
Mendlowitz - Speiser Fountain Ballroom 
Lopian  - Alter Kesser Moshe Yehuda 
Konik - Sandler Ateres Esther 
Atlas - Altman Ateres Blima
Issakov  - Aryeh Ateres Chaim Elazar 
Pam - Gross Ne'emas Hachaim

Israel News Wed Nov 19

 Day 775

- IDF launches wave of strikes across Gaza after troops come under fire; Palestinians say 24 killed.

-  Hamas denounces Israeli airstrikes earlier today as a “dangerous escalation,” warning that they jeopardized a fragile ceasefire.

- The IDF eliminated the Hamas Zaytoun Battalion Commander

- IDF has started to attack Hezbollah terror infrastructure in southern Lebanon

Wednesday November 19 News Updates Lakewood

Weather: 44° Light rain this morning. Then remaining cloudy. Chance of rain

- Trump: Communist Mayor of New York City, Zohran “Kwame” Mamdani, has asked for a meeting. We have agreed that this meeting will take place at the Oval Office on Friday, November 21st. Further details to follow!

- Trump: I HAVE JUST SIGNED THE BILL TO RELEASE THE EPSTEIN FILES! 

- DOJ charges Congresswoman Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick (D-FL) with stealing $5 million in FEMA funds, laundering the proceeds, and then using the money to support her 2021 Congressional campaign. She faces up to 53 years in prison if convicted. 

-New  wedding Takkana halls in Williamsburg Eden Yoel and Eden Alta Feiga  replacing Ateres Avrohom. Full weddings will cost just $6,500 per side, per Satmar askanim.

- BDE: Petirah of Habachur Elchonon Fasten z”l ben R' Bentzion shlita a 19-year-old Belzer chasid from Lakewood, was tragically niftar early Wednesday morning following a crash and vehicle fire on the Garden State Parkway near Exit 120 in Old Bridge, NJ. He was traveling from Boro Park to Lakewood at the time. Levaya details will be announced..

- Agudath Israel commends president Trump for tariff exemptions on religious items including Matzah and Arba Minim for once again accommodating religious practices and making it easier for Jewish families to celebrate their holidays.

Powerball Jackpot $593 million. The cash option is at $277 million. drawing tonight 

- The Planning Board meeting last night was brief, lasting about 40 minutes and featuring no major applications. The board approved converting a home into the existing shul Chakal Tapuchin at Oak and Vine, and also approved a subdivision off East 7th Street to allow additional residential housing near Cornelius Street.

- Giyus: The Degel HaTorah party announced that it had received a “green light” from its senior spiritual leaders, Rav Dov Lando and Rav Moshe Hillel Hirsch, to support a government bill under debate in the Knesset Foreign Affairs and Defense Committee regarding exemption of yeshiva students from military service. In a statement, Degel said that according to the directive, the bill should be submitted “as soon as possible,” after which, and before a Knesset vote on it, “the proposal will be placed on the desk of the great Torah leaders… where a final decision will be made regarding how to vote on the law.”

- Reminder: those who don't cut hair or nails on rosh chodesh (Rav Yehuda hachasid) to do say today. Based on the he Mishna Berura 260:6 that one should not cut their nails on Thursday as they will begin to grow on Shabbos. It also mentions the Be'er Hataiv 260:2 based on Rabbi Yehuda HaChasid not to cut one's nails on Rosh Chodesh. Other opinions allow it. Follow your minhag.

- Giyus: The High Court of Justice (Bagatz) ordered the Israeli government to formulate and implement an “effective enforcement policy” against draft evaders within 45 days

- Today, the Satmar Rebbe Aron, together with hundreds of chasidim, davened at Har Hatzofim, overlooking the Makom HaMikdash, in accordance with the Satmar shita of not going to the Kosel. See video below

- Jackson Township is seeking resident feedback as officials decide whether to extend the expired recycling contract or hire a new vendor. The current provider wants a $70,000 increase, and the mayor and council want input on how reliable the biweekly service has been before making a decision.

- Trump Administration Announces Dismantling of U.S. Department of Education and plans to transfer key functions including civil rights enforcement, special education, and K-12 grants from the U.S. Department of Education to other federal agencies via interagency agreements, reducing it to a minimal operation.

- The Senate has officially passed a bill requiring the Department of Justice to release all materials related to Jeffrey Epstein, after Minority Leader Chuck Schumer fast-tracked it through the chamber. The legislation now heads to President Donald Trump’s desk.

- A final psak was issued today in the ownership dispute over Ponovezh Yeshiva, as the arbitrator, retired judge David Cheshin, emailed his 160-page ruling to both sides. In the decision, Cheshin states that the faction led by Rav shmuel Markowitz, which currently occupies a Beis Medrash on campus, must vacate the yeshivah by  the month of Av 5786, pay the institution millions of shekels, and cease using the Ponovezh name. The yeshivah remains under the leadership of Rav Eliezer Kahaneman. Following the ruling, both sides reacted sharply the bochurim of Rav Kahaneman celebrated with loud music and dancing, while the opposing faction responded by singing songs of defiance. Rav Markowitz instructs his students after the loss: "Don't do anything to the other side, it will only cause harm". Meanwhile Rav Lazer Kahaneman celebrated the ruling with a lechaim together with the roshei yeshiva Rav Berel Povarasky and Rav Chaim Peretz Berman

- Jackson Township is seeking resident feedback as officials decide whether to extend the expired recycling contract or hire a new vendor. The current provider wants a $70,000 increase, and the mayor and council want input on how reliable the biweekly service has been before making a decision.

Satmar rebbe at Har Hatzofim


With the Toldos Avrohom Yitzchok rebbe

Speaker lineup at the upcoming Agudah action summit 




Tuesday, November 18, 2025

WZO: Progressives Secure Key Agenda Wins At WJC

At the WZO 39th World Jewish Congress held in Yerushalayim a few weeks ago, a coalition of liberal, progressive Reform slates at the World Zionist Congress (WZC) achieved notable success with several resolutions advancing their progressive agenda pertaining to the Kosel, the IDF draft,  no support for settlement expansion and pro toeva support. The progressive delegates secured several key victories, highlighting a growing ideological divide within global Zionism. In total, 22 out of 23 resolutions were accepted.

The Congress does not have the authority to enforce policy beyond its financial influence, as legislation is passed in the Knesset. Nevertheless, the WZC seeks to shape policy by influencing lawmakers. Although right-wing blocs gained delegates in this election, the Reform slate increased its representation compared to five years ago.

The main argument of those joining the WZO from the religious or right-leaning sectors  such as Eretz Hakodesh is that they aim to protect the kedushah of Eretz Yisrael. However, the liberal slates were still able to pass much of their agenda. The fact that only the Knesset can enact laws undermines the argument that joining the WZO is necessary for ideological protection unless the goal is the financial benefits associated with participation.

Resolutions  adopted at the WZO congress see full list here And adopted results Here

Summary of Key Progressive Resolutions:

Progressive Zionist groups passed a series of significant resolutions. One major measure barred the World Zionist Organization from funding future settlements in Gaza and the West Bank’s E1 area, passing 300–242 despite strong right-wing resistance.
 Another resolution mandated equal budgeting and opportunities for all Jewish denominations, women’s groups, and LGBTQ+ organizations.

Several proposals, including a call to halt settlement expansion in E1, were blocked when right-wing and ultra-Orthodox delegates walked out, preventing a quorum.

Delegates also approved a resolution removing ultra-Orthodox control over the Kosel and urging the Israeli government to reopen and guarantee full access to the Egalitarian section, a change supported by Reform and Conservative movements and Women of the Wall.

The WJC endorsed the creation of an equitable draft system in Israel, calling for legislation that would require equal national service or IDF conscription for all citizens, including charedim and yeshiva students.

A Eretz Hakodesh amendmant to lower the age of voting for the WZO to 17 has failed to pass 

The 22 passed resolutions:

Oif Simchas Tuesday 28 Cheshvan

Chasunas:
Friedman - Danishefsky Ateres Blima 
Shain - Silber Kesser Moshe Yehuda 
Dembitzer - Gutman Fountain Ballroom 
Adlin  - Green Ne'emas Hachaim 

Weather tonight: 37° A few showers early becoming a steady rain overnight. Chance of rain 100%.

Tuesday November 19 News Updates Lakewood

Weather 48° Partly cloudy this morning, then becoming cloudy during the afternoon

- The Trump administration is reportedly preparing to "dismantle" large parts of the Education Department, per The Washington Post.


-Trump: I don’t care when the Senate passes the House Bill, whether tonight, or at some other time in the near future, I just don’t want Republicans to take their eyes off all of the Victories that we’ve had, including THE GREAT BIG BEAUTIFUL BILL, Closed Borders, No Men in Women’s Sports or Transgender for Everyone, ending DEI, stopping Biden’s Record Setting Inflation, Biggest Tax and Regulation Cuts in History, stopping EIGHT Wars, rebuilding our Military, being RESPECTED by every Country in the World, having Trillions of Dollars INVESTED in the U.S.A., having created the “HOTTEST” Country anywhere in the World, and even delivering a HUGE DEFEAT to the Democrats on the Shutdown. MAKE AMERICA GREAT AGAIN!

- Mikie Sherrill officially resigns from congress effective November 20 "Serving New Jersey’s 11th District in Congress has been the honor of a lifetime. I will continue that service, focused on lowering costs and expanding opportunity, as your 57th Governor.

- Howell Police are searching for a man who assaulted a woman pushing her two-year-old in a stroller on Pinewood Road near Cecelia Court on Monday evening, Nov. 17. The attacker came up from behind around 5 p.m., put her in what seemed like a chokehold, and threw her to the ground. He fled when she screamed.
Police say the same man was seen earlier lingering around Violet Circle and Poppy Lane. He is described as about 5'8", wearing a gray or tan hood, a dark jacket with light stripes on the sleeves, dark pants, and white athletic sneakers.

- The United States House of Representatives approved, with 471 votes in favor and 1 vote against, the declassification and publication of documents related to the Jeffrey Epstein investigation.

- Crown Prince of Saudi Arabia meeting Trump today in the WH announces they are increasing their $600 Million investment to $1 TRILLION! 

- A New Jersey couple recently purchased a $3 million Jackpot Millions winning Scratch-Off ticket in Toms River - just 6 months after winning a $1 million lottery ticket.(onejersey)

- Lakewood planning board meeting tonight 6 pm watch livestream here see agenda Here 
A shul application for Oak n Vine

- Event for post seminary girls today 1pm at the Cookie corner organized by Chesed of Lakewood  for project chessed.

- Over 5,000 customers are without power in Manchester, New Jersey last night as Temperatures hit a  low of 32. Power was restored 

-A final ruling is expected any day in the long-running dispute over the ownership of Ponovezh Yeshiva. The parties have agreed to arbitration, and the judge is expected to issue the decision shortly, bringing this long-running dispute to an end.

- At the LIC (Lakewood Industrial Commission) meeting yesterday, the chairman reported that several private and public sector projects were affected by the government shutdown. Additionally, some businesses that were included in the UEZ map were not included in the revised Opportunity Zone that was passed in the recent bill. The commission is currently working on resolving this issue to ensure those businesses are properly included.

- Construction has begun on the new Spire shopping plaza along Avenue of the States in Cedarbridge Park.
Online ordering for Dips Lakewood is temporarily unavailable.
A new pharmacy is coming to the Toms River shopping center where Seasons is located, and a new Smash House location is also planned there.

- The Satmar Rebbe continues his trip to Eretz Yisroel, with a Hachnasas Sefer Torah scheduled in Beit Shemesh. Earlier today he visited a cheder in Meah Shearim and will deliver a shiur at Kollel Shomrei HaChomos, continuing the tradition of previous Satmar Rebbes, as well as distributing stipends to the avreichim. In Toldos Aharon, they distributed a special gourmet coffee donated in honor of the Rebbe’s visit.

- Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene on President Trump "I gave him my loyalty for FREE...I've never owed him anything...he called me a traitor. Let me tell you what a traitor is - an American that serves foreign countries and THEMSELVES."

- Trump tweets: The only healthcare i will support or approve is sending the money directly back to the people, with nothing going to the big, fat, rich insurance companies, who have made $trillions, and ripped off america long enough. the people will be allowed to negotiate and buy their own, much better, insurance. power to the people! congress, do not waste your time and energy on anything else. this is the only way to have great healthcare in america!!! get it done, now. president DJT

- Several New Jersey towns, including Chatham, Morris Plains, and Monroe, have passed resolutions opposing proposed state bill S-4736, which would loosen requirements for affordable housing projects built by religious and nonprofit groups. Local officials argue the bill threatens municipal autonomy because it would force planning boards to approve qualifying conversions into housing and significantly restrict the grounds on which towns can reject such projects.

Speaker Johnson criticized Democrats for suddenly demanding action on the Epstein files, arguing that the Biden DOJ possessed the documents for four years without any public pressure from them. He said none of the Democrats now speaking out held press conferences or demanded the release of information during that time,

- Kashrus alert: The OU has announced that, due to changes in modern brewing methods and the introduction of new additives, unflavored beer can no longer be assumed to be inherently kosher. Beginning January 1, 2026, all beer served in OU-certified establishments or at OU-certified events must bear reliable kosher certification. While many major national beer brands will continue to be acceptable, all craft beers will require a visible kosher symbol or identifying letter to be permitted.

- A hachtara took place for Bais Medrash D’Bartley in Jackson, marking the formal installation of Rav Menachem Wosner, Shlit”a, as its new Rav. The event drew a distinguished crowd of rabbanim and community leaders, adding great kavod to the occasion. Among those in attendance were Rav Elya Chaim Swerdloff, Rav Malkiel Kotler, Rav Shraga Schiff of Monsey, and Rav Mendel Bromberg.

Israel News Tuesday Nov 18

Day 744

- Lebanese officials  report that a Israeli strike targeting Hamas operatives in Lebanon has left 13 people dead.

- Netanyahu: "We have hit the terror axis of Iran in 360 degrees over the past two years - and our hand is still extended, and it is also required

- Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman will tell US President Donald Trump in their private meeting today, “Yes to normalization with Israel, but not now,” Channel 12 reports, citing an official with knowledge of the details.
MBS will say that normalization is a strategic goal for Saudi Arabia, but the conditions are not right, the network reports. MBS wants to see that the Gaza ceasefire instituted last month doesn’t fall apart, and is demanding a commitment to a pathway to a Palestinian state from Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who rejects Palestinian statehood.

-Trump on the sale of F-35 planes to Saudi Arabia: The Israelis want us to provide them with less advanced planes. We are considering it. But I think these two countries are close allies of ours and should receive the best planes.

- Victim of today’s terror attack in Gush Etzion is named Aharon Cohen HY”D, 71, from Kiryat Arba. 

- Terror attack Man stabbed to death in terror attack at Gush Etzion Junction by 2 Arab  terrorists 
A man in his 30s was stabbed to death in the terror attack at the Gush Etzion Junction in the West Bank, Magen David Adom says.
MDA says it is taking three other victims to hospitals in Jerusalem  a woman in her 40s in serious condition and a man in his 30s and a 15-year-old boy in moderate condition
The attack was carried out by at least two palestinian terrorits who accelerated their vehicle into pedestrians at the junction, before one got out and tried to stab victims, according to preliminary findings. Both terrorists were shot dead by security forces.
The military says multiple explosive devices were found inside the vehicle used by the terrorists in the ramming and stabbing attack.

- Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu praised the United Nations Security Council's vote to implement US President Donald Trump's Gaza peace plan, thanking Trump and his team for their efforts to secure the deal, the Prime Minister's Office posted "The State of Israel and PM Netanyahu applaud President [Donald Trump] and his tireless and devoted team"The courage and sacrifice of our brave soldiers, along with President Trump’s diplomatic efforts, helped bring home all of the living hostages and most of the deceased ones.


- PM  Netanyahu far-right allies up in arms over US plan’s offer of path to Palestinian statehood
The revival of diplomatic efforts to secure a normalization deal with Saudi Arabia has triggered intense criticism from Israel’s far-right ministers and West Bank settlement authorities, who pressured Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Saturday evening to reject any proposal perceived as advancing Palestinian statehood. Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich accused Netanyahu of “silence and diplomatic disgrace” on the issue, arguing that the prime minister had failed to respond forcefully to recent unilateral recognitions of a Palestinian state by several countries.

-Negotiations between Israel and Syria over a potential security agreement have stalled over Syria’s insistence that Israel retreat entirely from areas captured by the IDF following the downfall of Bashar al-Assad’s regime.

Monday, November 17, 2025

Oif Simchas Monday 27 Cheshvan

Chasunas 
Frankel - Weidberg Neemas Hachaim
Brull - Olshin Cedar Palace
Bronspiegel - Gold Bais Faiga 
Nechmad - Dror Kesser Moshe Yehuda 
Freedman Gewirtzman Fountain Ballroom 
Weinberg - Greinman Ateres Esther

Weather. Tonight low of 32° clear sky.

Israel News Monday Nov 17

Day 774

- The UN Security Council passed the US proposal for Gaza by a majority of 14 countries, with no opposition. Measure calls for deployment of international force in Gaza, path to a future Palestinian state

- The US sent a message to the mediating countries, as well as to the countries expected to be part of the international shaping force in Gaza (ISF), that it will allow Israel to renew the war in Gaza if Hamas does not disarm.

-Hamas condemns the Security Council's decision to approve the US proposal for Gaza: "The decision imposes an international guardianship mechanism on the Gaza Strip, which our people, its forces, and factions reject. By all means, resistance to the occupation is a legitimate right anchored by international laws and treaties. The weapon of resistance is linked to the existence of the occupation, and any discussion on the matter must remain an internal national issue related to a political path that guarantees the end of the occupation, the establishment of the state, and the determination of fate"

-Trump: Congratulations to the World on the incredible Vote of the United Nations Security Council, just moments ago, acknowledging and endorsing the BOARD OF PEACE, which will be chaired by me, and include the most powerful and respected Leaders throughout the World. This will go down as one of the biggest approvals in the History of the United Nations, will lead to further Peace all over the World, and is a moment of true Historic proportion! Thank you to the United Nations, and all of the Countries on the U.N. Security Council, China, Russia, France, The United Kingdom, Algeria, Denmark, Greece, Guyana, South Korea, Pakistan, Panama, Sierra Leone, Slovenia, and Somalia. Also thank you to those Countries that weren’t on this Committee, but strongly backed the effort, including Qatar, Egypt, United Arab Emirates, The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, Indonesia, Turkiye, and Jordan. The members of the Board, and many more exciting announcements, will be made in the coming weeks.

Monday November 17 News Updates Lakewood

Weather: 47° A shower is possible early. A mix of clouds and sun. Gusty winds during the morning. Winds at 20 to 30 mph

The highest reported wind gusts yesterday as of 2:30 p.m. was 53 mph in Keansburg in Monmouth County, closely followed by 51 mph in Mantoloking, Ocean County. Toms River was 46 mph ar 12pm

- Ford partners with Amazon for dealers to sell used vehicles online

- Trump said it is "okay with him" to launch attacks against Mexico in order to stop drug trafficking

-Zoharan Mamdani, reaffirmed yesterday in an interview with ABC that he will do whatever he can to enforce the international arrest warrant against PM Netanyahu if he visits New York, even if it is during a visit to the UN General Assembly.

-Giyus: Rav Moshe Sternbuch related in a conversation with the Satmar Rebbe that the government is seeking to draft 50% of yeshiva students into the IDF, and that even some frum Knesset members are entering into agreements on this matter. He added that, unfortunately, there are even talmidei chachamim who support it.
The Satmar Rebbe responded that such a proposal constitutes shmad mamash.

- President Trump says he is planning to sell F-35s to Saudi Arabia

- New Jersey residents are seeing sharp increases in their 2026 health-insurance premiums, with many couples on GetCovered NJ reporting about $500 more per month. The biggest cause is the expiration of enhanced federal tax credits that had kept premiums lower in recent years. Some households, in Lakewood, are experiencing sticker shock and looking into cheaper alternatives like health-share plans.
New Jersey is expanding its New Jersey Health Plan Savings (NJHPS) program to help offset the increases. The state offers $20–$100 per person each month in additional subsidies for households earning up to 600% of the federal poverty level. While these subsidies help, they cannot fully replace the larger federal credits that are ending, so many families will still face higher costs.

- A fund has been established to support the almanah and yesomim of Reb Yisroel Meir Freeman Z”L, who was tragically killed in Monsey yesterday when a tree fell on his car. He was a kollel youngerman who learned in the kollel of Rav Mattis Rokach shlita. Donate here.

- Utility Rate increase: Lakewood Township MUA: The board will vote on a 2% sewer rate increase for both residential and commercial customers at the public meeting on December 2.
Lakewood MUA approved water rate hike for customers by 38%  in 2024 over next 7 years on top of a 15% rate hike the last two years. The commissioners that include Mayor Coles and committeeman Lichtenstein and Wife of Deputy Mayor Menashe Miller received a salary increase from $5k to $15k annually; they are not employees but receive compensation for being a commissioner. 

- Stamar Rebbe Rav Aharon arrived in Eretz Yisroel for a 10-day visit, with the highlight expected to be Shabbos in Meron. The Rebbe made a stopover in Athens, where he stayed overnight and davened at the local Chabad shul before continuing on to Eretz Yisroel. He is scheduled to visit Rav Moshe Shternbuch shlita follopwed by a major kabbalas panim tonight chasidim.

- Tefillos for the Biksad Rebbe shlita of Williamsburg who was hit by a car that lost control as he walked home from shul. He was seriously injured and lost consciousness and rushed to ICU. Name is Yisroel Eliezer ben Sarah Miriam.

- BDE: Petirah of The funeral of Rav Eliyahu Raful zt”l, Rosh Yeshiva of ‘Neve Eretz’ in Be’er Yaakov, the levaya was in front of his home at 5 HaRav Hirsch Street in Bnei Brak, with kevura at Ponovezh bais Hachaim 

- Non-checked romaine lettuce in local stores is $10 for a bag of 3 heads The price of romaine lettuce is high due to a combination of factors, including crop loss from pests and viruses, adverse weather conditions, and rising costs for farmers due to inflation, which impact fuel, fertilizer, and labor. 

- White House Chanukah Party May Be Scaled Back Due to Ballroom Construction
Sources tell Belaaz that the guest list is being sharply reduced because of limited space at the White House, caused by the ongoing large-scale construction of a new State Ballroom in the East Wing.

- Ocean county Health Dept: Ocean County’s WIC program, the largest in New Jersey, has seen extraordinary caseload growth from 2017–2025. Its caseload is now larger than the entire state caseload of 12 other WIC programs combined, highlighting the unprecedented scale of its expansion.

- Lakewood High School has shaken up oversight of student attendance after an Asbury Park Press investigation revealed that students were being credited with attendance when they had not shown up for class.

- Lakewood Cheder School has obtained a settlement following a lawsuit in which the school claimed that the solar energy system installed on its property was deteriorating and could need approximately $450,000 in repairs, according to FAA News here

- At last night’s Menucha V’Yeshua gala in Asbury Park for widows of October 7th, Rabbi Meir Kenig surprised Ahron and Hodaya Danino by introducing them to Mayer Fischl, a Lakewood philanthropist who donated an ambulance in memory of their heroic brother, Ori Danino HY”D.

- Assemblyman Avi Schnall shared a belated post -on LinkedIn the first since the election thanking many people: volunteers, supporters, and most of all, the voters who ultimately made it happen. “Many waited in long lines, took time out of busy schedules, arranged babysitters, and took off work just to cast their vote. No words can express my gratitude.
The voters have spoken, and now the job of listening continues. I look forward to the next session and, God willing, many more successes in a comment he was told that being that he is a democrat it is expected of him that Gov Mikie sherril will opt in to the tuition tax credit bill signed by Trump

Sunday, November 16, 2025

Oif Simchas Sunday 26 Cheshvan

Chasunas:
Cohen - Shachter Ateres Esther
Dicker - Brown Ateres Blima 
Shechter - Ismach Kesser Moshe Yehuda 

Parnassah expo men's networking event ages 25-35 tonight at the Westwood business center 1001 Rt 70 Lakewood/Toms River 8:00pm- 10pm

 Tonight Shloshimb gathering will take place for habachur shloimy  Cohen Z"L at Pine River shul with divrei hesped by Rav Avrohom Schorr and Rav Abba Brudny Rav Dovid Cohen and rebbeim. Maariv  8:30pm Program 8:45pm watch replay here

- Yeshivas Ner Moshe bochurim siyum at Fountain Ballroom 


Sunday November 16 News Updates Lakewood

 Weather: 59° A mix of clouds and sun with gusty winds.. Winds could occasionally gust over 40 mph.


- Trump is pushing a plan to redirect Obamacare (ACA) subsidy money away from insurance companies and send it directly to individuals instead. He says he’s had talks with some Democrats, though it’s unclear who or how serious those discussions are.

- Trump says "release the Epstein files, because we have nothing to hide."

-  BDE: Petirah of Rav Eliyohu Cheshin Z"L of Yerushalayim a  longtime melamed who devoted his life to Torah chinuch and acts of chesed. He was 60 years old. Rav Eliyahu was well known and beloved in the Lakewood whe. He would visit annually and was welcomed with a kabolas panim by the youngeleit.

- Smash House burger will be opening a location in Toms River at the shopping center next to seasons kosher express a d Twillory.(feder status)

- A visit at the home of the Lakewood Rosh Yeshiva: The leading candidate for the  Chief Rabbinate of Yerushalayim, Rabbi Yitzchok Neriah, arrived with a delegation of rabbonim from the Religious Zionist movement, headed by Rabbi Y. Shapira, Rosh Yeshiva of Mercaz HaRav, for a meeting with the Rosh Yeshiva of Lakewood, Rabbi Malkiel Kotler shlita to discuss current issues concerning the sensitive relations between Israel and America, as well as matters of religion and state.”

- BDE:  Petirah of Haavreich Rav Yisroel Meir Freeman Z"L  ben yblc Rav Yaakov Freeman of lower east side
The youngerman,29, was nifter from the injuries when a tree fell on his car on the way to kollel this morning 
Monsey: A tree fell on a yungerman’s car while he was driving in Chestnut Ridge Leaving him Critically Injured. Name is Yisroel Meir ben Raizel.

- The Lakewood Daf Yomi cbsbura will be hosting a Yarchei kallah in E"Y this week with a grand Siyum Wednesday night in Yerushalayim with shabbos up north in the Meron/Tzfas area. The event is for both men and women.

- Parnassah expo men's networking event ages 25-35 tonight at the Westwood business center  1001 Rt 70 Lakewood/Toms River 8:00pm- 10pm

- SNAP receipients The Trump administration mandated all 42 million recipients reapply immediately after the government reopening to purge fraud, deceased claimants, and ineligible individuals.  No specific timeline for the full SNAP reapplication mandate has been announced by Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins or USDA as of November 15, 2025. Existing rules already require beneficiaries to recertify eligibility every 6-12 months, verifying income, work status, and need. This policy builds on that framework to combat fraud, but implementation details remain pending federal guidance to states.

- A Hachnosas Sefer Torah will take place today at the Rachmastrivka beis midrash in the Oak ‘n Vine area of Lakewood, procession leaving 5:30pm from 16 Turin ave, with the seuda following at the River Terrace Hall.

- A Hachnosas Sefer Torah will take place today at the Forest Park Shul. The procession will leave from Newberry Ct. and Pine St. at 2:30 p.m.

- Hachnosas sefer Torah at Khal Yaakov Akiva Raintree, neighborhood procession leaving 2:45pm from 6 Emerald CT to the shul.

- This Tuesday will mark the shloshim for the four bochurim, z”l, who were tragically killed in a car accident. The families will host events to commemorate the shloshim. Tonight a gathering will take place for habachur shloimy  Cohen Z"L at Pine River shul with divrei hesped by Rav Avrohom Schorr and Rav Abba Brudny Rav Dovid Cohen and rebbeim.

- Satmar Rebbe Rav Aaron has arrived in Athens on his way to Eretz Yisroel. The Rebbe will remain there overnight, and tomorrow afternoon he will continue by private jet to begin his visit in Eretz Yisroel, where he will spend Shabbos in Meron with his chasidim.

-  The Chabad Kinus Hashluchim Gala Banquet
Will twkebplace today  main program 2:00 PM at the New Jersey Conference and Expo Center 97 Sunfield Avenue, Edison, New Jersey

- The mashpiah Rav Tzvi Meir Zilberberg shlita arrived in the US today to attend a fundraiser dinner for his mosad Nachlas Yaakov taking place at the Wetshester County center.

- Jackson: Following complaints from residents that leaves are still on the trees even though their leaf-pickup schedule has already passed, Jackson officials say crews will come around again to make another sweep of those zones. Additionally, next year the city will rotate the zone schedules so some areas will have a later pickup

- New Jersey Bill Looks to Push DEI Mandate on parents that are  Homeschoolers “This would force parents to teach a curriculum that highlights and promotes diversity  including economic diversity  equity, inclusion, tolerance, and belonging in connection with gender.. orientation, race and ethnicity, disabilities, and religious tolerance.”(Fox News) 
Parents insist they will ignore the law even if it passes.

- Garden State Distillery will close its Toms River facility next month in a move to a new, larger location in Brick Township. The current Toms River location will close at the end of December.

- Construction is moving along at the new Gourmet Glatt location on West County Line Road in Jackson, at the site of the former Stop & Shop.
The former supermarket space is being divided to accommodate multiple retail stores in addition to Gourmet Glatt. No opening date has been announced yet.
As for Moisha’s upcoming location in Howell, there is likewise no confirmed opening date at this time there were some rumors of another supermarket taking it over.
Additionally Ouri's Market is reported to open a location in Howell at the former Lidl on Rt 9.


Israel News Sunday November 16

 Day 772

- Trump unlikely to approve F-35 sale to Saudi Arabia, but could still change mind - report
The potential sale of the fighter jets to Saudi Arabia had raised concerns about Israel's ability to maintain its qualitative military edge in the region.

- In response to reports that the US is eying a Palestinian State, Israel Defense Minister Katz declares: "Israel's policy is clear: a Palestinian state will not be established. The IDF will remain at the summit of Mount Hermon and in the security zone. Gaza will be demilitarized down to the last tunnel, and Hamas will be disarmed in the yellow zone by the IDF and in Old Gaza by the international force - or by the IDF."

- The 20 Israeli hostages who returned in the agreement to end the war will fly tomorrow to meet President Trump at the White House. The meeting is expected to take place on Thursday, and afterwards, they will continue to the weekend in New York. The meeting planned with Envoy Witkoff will likely not take place

- Netanyahu at the start of the government meeting: "Our opposition to a Palestinian state in any territory has not changed. Gaza will be demilitarized and Hamas will be disarmed, either the easy way or the hard way. I do not need reinforcements, tweets, or lectures from anyone. During this election year, we are witnessing a primary attack, both from within Likud and from outside it."

-  The Trump administration is looking to forgo the stage in its peace plan calling for the deployment of a stabilization force to Gaza to disarm Hamas, so that it can move ahead with starting to rebuild Gaza.

Saturday, November 15, 2025

Motzei Shabbos Chayei Sara 5786 News Updates Lakewood

Weather tonight low of  48° Showers this evening becoming a steady rain overnight. Low Chance of rain 90%. Rainfall around a quarter of an inch. Tomorrow gusty winds up to 40mph

- The Satmar Rebbe, Rav Aharon shlita, is scheduled to depart from Newark Airport tonight at 11:45 PM on his journey to Eretz Yisroel on Emirates airline with a brief stayover in Athens. The Rebbe will be leading a major nesia accompanied by thousands of chassidim and supporters, culminating in a special Shabbos in Meron.

-  Yeshiva S Fallsburg Alumni Melava Malka for years 1988- 2002 at Bnos Devorah hall. Hishtatfus the Rosh Yeshiva shlita

- Bina BX25 Rehabilitation and disability expo tomorrow Sunday, November 16, 2025 12:00–5:00 pm Beru Grand 2373 US-9  Toms River, NJ Free admission 

- Bingo  black Friday event open tonight 

- Patis Cafe location in Lakewood is closed.

- Jewish New Yorkers rushing to buy guns for protection after anti-Israel Zohran Mamdani’s victory. Jewish New Yorkers are arming themselves before an anti-Israel “mayor who despises us” takes the helm of New York City, several told The Post this week(NYP)

- Hachnosas Sefer Torah tonight at the Berkeley Hotel in Asbury Park for shabbaton for almanos of October 7 war 

- Gitus: Protesters intensified their opposition to the proposed giyus draft law on motzaei Shabbos, targeting several frum Knesset members. Shas MK Yoav Ben Tzur was leaving a shiur when protesters surrounded his car; reports say a window was smashed, though he was not harmed. Another protest took place outside the home of Degel HaTorah MK Yaakov Asher. Meanwhile, several Likud ministers are quoted as saying it is becoming increasingly likely that the government will not pass a giyus law.

- Resident Joel Kleinman has won a seat on the Lakewood Board of Education after securing roughly 5,000 write-in votes out of about 7,000 cast in the recent election. However, despite this significant write-in victory, the state-appointed monitor who currently oversees the district has overruled the board and effectively taken control of its operations. 

- President Donald Trump has granted a pardon to a Orthodox Jewish former nursing-home executive from Monsey, New York, who had been sentenced this past April to 36 months in federal prison.

- One lucky ticket in Georgia matched all six numbers of Friday night's estimated $980 million Mega Millions drawing, scoring one of the largest jackpots in the lottery game's history. 

- Heavy rains poured over Shabbos in Eretz Yisroel, and power was knocked out in several cities as the first winter rains came down. The Kosel was noticeably empty Erev Shabbos due to the stormy weather.”

-Trump says he doesn't care if the Epstein files are released, "I was never on his island... this is a democrat hoax... if they had anything, they would have used it before the election" and that "it's bad to talk about it, because it gets away from the subject of how well the Republicans are doing."

-Giyus: Knesset Foreign Affairs and Defense Committee chairman Boaz Bismuth clarified that the government’s updated giyus proposal would maintain long-standing exemptions for those immersed in full-time Torah learning, while establishing a gradual framework to draft some members of the chareidi public who are not actively in yeshiva.

- New Jersey: About 54% of registered voters cast a ballot in the 2025 election, unofficial voting data shows. That’s the highest turnout for the past seven gubernatorial races, and the second-highest for a non-presidential year since 1998.

- Updated count for the New Jersey Gubernatorial Race Mikie Sherrill 1,892,320 (56.85%)Jack Ciattarelli 1,416,219 (42.55%) Sherrill leads by 476,101 votes or 14.3%

- Trump: Lightweight Congresswoman Marjorie Taylor Brown (Green grass turns Brown when it begins to ROT!), betrayed the entire Republican Party when she turned Left, performed poorly on the pathetic View, and became the RINO that we all know she always was. Just another Fake politician, no different than Rand Paul Jr. (Thomas Massie), who got caught being a full fledged Republican In Name Only (RINO)! MAKE AMERICA GREAT AGAIN!!!

- Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene says she’s receiving increased safety warnings after former President Trump withdrew his endorsement. She claims Trump’s rhetoric is encouraging threats against her, stating that private security firms have alerted her to potential dangers. Greene called Trump’s behavior “shocking” and said she takes the threats seriously, particularly as a woman.

- Far Right lawmakers called on Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to clarify that a Palestinian state will never be established or recognized by Israel. Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich said that Netanyahu's silence on the matter led to a diplomatic deterioration over the issue.

Friday, November 14, 2025

Lakewood Zmanim עש"ק פר' חיי שרה מברכים כסלו תשפ"ו

 אִם אֵין בָּנוּ מַעֲשִׂים זָכְרָה יְשֵׁנֵי חֶבְרון. וְהֵם יַעֲלוּ לְזִכָּרון

Friday, November 14, 2025 / כ״ג חשון תשפ״ו
ערב שבת פרשת חיי שרה מברכים חודש כסלו

-Candle lighting 4:22 pm
-Shkiah/Sunset 4:40 pm
-Rosh Chodesh Kislev is on Friday
-Molad is Thursday afternoon, 38 minutes and 9 chalakim after 1:00 pm

Weather: Friday night low 33° clear
                  Shabbos day hi 55° cloudy 


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 14 News Updates Lakewood

Friday, November 14, 2025 / כ״ג חשון תשפ״ו
ערב שבת פרשת חיי שרה מברכים חודש כסלו

Candle lighting 4:22 pm
Shkiah/Sunset 4:40 pm
Rosh Chodesh Kislev is on Friday

Weather: 53° Sunny Winds 10 to 20 mph.
Friday night low 33° clear
Shabbos day hi 55° cloudy 

- Off shabbos this week for mesivtas and BM some yeshivos will have off next shabbos.

- New Jersey Attorney General Matt Platkin announced that Horizon Blue Cross Blue Shield will pay $100 million to the state to resolve allegations that the insurer fraudulently obtained a 2020 contract to manage public-employee health benefits and overcharged the State’s health plans. This marks the largest non-Medicaid False Claims Act settlement in New Jersey’s history.

- Trump: Cost, and INFLATION, were far higher under the Sleepy Joe Biden Administration, than they are now. In fact, costs under the TRUMP ADMINISTRATION are tumbling down, helped greatly by gasoline and ENERGY. Affordability is a lie when used by the Dems. It is a complete CON JOB. Thanksgiving costs are 25% lower this year than last, under Crooked Joe! We are the Party of Affordability!

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

- Chabad kinus Hashluchum going in thus shabbos in crown heights.

- Gas prices in Lakewood area went up yesterday  by 15 cents to 3.09

- Mega millions jackpot is $980 million drawing Friday night

- 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

Admor MTemeshvar will be spending shabbos  in Lakewood at 425 12th street.

- Rachmastrivka rebbe from EY will be spending shabbos with talmidim at a hotel in Stamford,CT

- There will be a special, event today at the Lakewood Airport for a group of Israeli yesomim who lost a parent on October 7th or in the ongoing war. The children are spending Shabbos at the Berkeley Hotel in Asbury Park, and as part of their visit, several generous local pilots have volunteered to take them on airplane rides over the Lakewood ood area. Local volunteers will provide, music, entertainment, and activities to bring joy and comfort to these precious children.

- Lakewood Township Committee Meeting Recap
 At last night’s Lakewood Township Committee meeting, members approved all items listed on the agenda.
During public comment, only one member of the public spoke up and raised concerns about the accessibility of the Township’s virtual meetings. The resident noted that logging in to watch or participate online is not user-friendly and urged the administration to post a direct, easily visible link on the Township’s website. Although the mayor has repeatedly emphasized that virtual meetings allow greater public participation, residents continue to report difficulty accessing the sessions. Community members also pointed out that many Lakewood residents have limited or no internet access, as reflected in the consistently low turnout typically only one or two public comments per meeting.

Despite having recently won re-election, Committeeman Isaac Ackerman did not receive formal congratulations from the committee. The mayor did, however, acknowledge the large turnout at the Lakewood Chamber of Commerce dinner earlier in the week , where Committeeman Menashe Miller serves as President and Chairman.

- Giyus: A group of Litvishe poskim headed by Rav Moshe Sternbuch shlita, issued a firm halachic ruling rejecting the government’s proposed draft law that includes enlistment targets for the chareidi community. They stated it is forbidden to agree to any legislation that mandates the conscription of yeshiva students, including those not learning diligently. The rabbonim stressed that the law must exempt all who consider Torah their full-time occupation, insisting that no clause obligating any chareidi individual to army service can be accepted. They added that even if such a law would spare many diligent learners, “one may not push off one soul for another.” see letter below.

- Model homes go up at the upcoming Lakefront community in Okeechobee Florida for the chasidishe crowd video Here

- Bitcoin dropped to $96,635 on Friday, its lowest since May, amid a global risk-off market shift that led to over $1.1 billion in derivatives liquidations

- 9 days later after elections  New Jersey still conting ballots with 95% in. Results from DDHQ Sherill leads by +14 points
Sherrill 56.7%
Ciatteralli 42.7%

- Toms River:  A Township Council majority rejected Mayor Daniel Rodrick's attempt to change how the Toms River's government operates on Nov. 12, with Council President Justin D. Lamb joining three frequent critics of the mayor to reject plans to abolish the Toms River Municipal Utilities Authority and limit the council's powers.(APP)

- Axios: NYC Mayor-elect Zohran Mamdani has spoken privately with several Democratic governors about how to take on President Trump and tackle other priorities.

- Iranian forces have taken control of the Marshall Islands–flagged tanker Talara, according to a United States defense official. The ship left Ajman in the United Arab Emirates carrying high-sulfur gasoil and was heading toward Singapore when it was intercepted and directed into Iranian waters

-Governor-elect Mikie Sherrill delivered a short farewell speech to Congress, announcing that she will resign from her U.S. House seat next week. The four-term Democrat is stepping down as she prepares to become New Jersey’s 57th governor on January 20.

- Trump: The Democrats are doing everything in their withering power to push the Epstein Hoax again, despite the DOJ releasing 50,000 pages of documents, in order to deflect from all of their bad policies and losses, especially the SHUTDOWN EMBARRASSMENT, where their party is in total disarray, and has no idea what to do. Some Weak Republicans have fallen into their clutches because they are soft and foolish. Epstein was a Democrat, and he is the Democrat’s problem, not the Republican’s problem! Ask Bill Clinton, Reid Hoffman, and Larry Summers about Epstein, they know all about him, don’t waste your time with Trump. I have a Country to run!

- Trump claims Democrats are promoting an “Epstein hoax” to distract from the shutdown and other failures. He says he will ask A.G. Pam Bondi, the DOJ, and the FBI to investigate Jeffrey Epstein’s relationships with figures such as Bill Clinton, Larry Summers, Reid Hoffman, and major financial institutions. He argues the situation is another politically motivated scam similar to “Russia, Russia, Russia,” asserting that records show these individuals spent significant time with Epstein.


- Letter from poskim against any compromise in the giyus draft law


Parsha of Shidduchim

 This week's Parsha discusses the shidduch between Yitzchok and Rivka  as Avrohom sent Eliezer his servant to find a girl for his son. There was no shidduch crisis than it was all with Emunah. Eliezer is the first known shadchan in the Torah. Many important lessons in Shidduchim are derived from this parsha. Rav Elya Boruch Finkel ZT"l the Mir Rosh Yeshiva would give his yearly hashkafa shmooze on shidduchim friday night Shabbos Chaya Sara. Yated article reported He would speak for four hours and always begin with the Rabbeinu Bechaya that says that the Torah details every part of Yitzchok Avinu’s shidduch because “ma’aseh avos siman labonim.“ He would add that the reason why the Torah elaborates on Yitzchok’s shidduch and not Avrohom’s or Yaakov’s is because Yitzchok had his father take an active role in making his shidduch.

Thursday, November 13, 2025

From Novhardik to Mezbuz

מנובהרדוק עד מעז'יבוז' The 'Malchus' choir in the annual year cycle from both sides of the fence cbasidishe a d Litvishe, with Zanvil Weinberger, Rabbi Hillel Plai, Meir Adler, Pinchas Bichler, 'Hasidimlech' and Benny Laufer!

Oif Simchas Thursday 23 Cheshvan

 Chasunas:
Heyman- Joslowski Ateres Esther
Silber - Meir Neemas hachaim
Lieberson - mermelstein Ateres Blima
Cohen Fountain Ballroom 

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

Israel News Thurs Nov 13

 Day 769

- There is currently 2 bodies of hostages and 1 foreign worker from Thailand in Gaza

- The body of Israeli hostage Manny Godard  was returned to Israel for burial after 769 days. Manny (73) and his wife Ayelet (63) were murdered in their home in Kibbutz Be’eri on Oct. 7, 2023, and his body was taken to Gaza.

-Israel received from the Red Cross the coffin of the hostage. After a military ceremony with the Chief Rabbi, it will be transferred to the National Center for Forensic Medicine. At the end of the identification process, an official notification will be given to the family

-Report: Hamas will transfer the body of Meni Godard from Kibbutz Be'eri, who was murdered and kidnapped to Gaza on October 7, 2023

- Marco Rubio says ‘there’s some concern’ West Bank violence could undermine Gaza ceasefire

- The IDF attacked a weapons warehouse and an underground terror infrastructure of Hezbollah in southern Lebanon. Subsequently, the IDF, led by the 91st Division and using Air Force fighter jets, attacked another terror infrastructure of the terrorist organization

Thursday November 13 News Updates Lakewood

Weather: Day 52° Sun and clouds mixed. Winds 15 to 25 mph. Higher wind gusts possible

- U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth announced a new military mission called Operation Southern Spear, suggesting the “war on drugs” may be shifting into an actual armed conflict. In a statement on X, Hegseth said President Trump ordered the action and that the mission, run by Joint Task Force Southern Spear under U.S. Southern Command, is intended to protect the U.S. homeland by removing “narco-terrorists” from the Western Hemisphere and stopping the flow of deadly drugs.

- Hundreds are in attendance at the Anne Vogel Family Care and Wellness Center in Eatontown, New Jersey where the state Department of Health is holding a public hearing to consider RWJBarnabas Health's request to transfer it's Monmouth Medical Center's hospital license to a large medical campus it is building in Tinton Falls.(one jersey)

- Senator Fetterman hospitalized after collapsing due to a "ventricular fibrillation flare-up" on his early morning walk.

- A federal judge on Thursday suggested that she could toss the charges against ex-FBI boss James Comey and New York Attorney General Letitia James as she appeared to agree with their arguments that the prosecutor who brought the cases is illegitimate. 

- SNAP benefits are expected to be fully available to recipients within 24 hours after the government shutdown ended

- Giyus: The IDF said this afternoon that 158 Chareidim enlisted yesterday into combat-support tracks.

-  The FAA said today that flight cuts at 40 major U.S. airports will stay at 6%, not rise to 10%, after more air traffic controllers returned to work following the end of the government shutdown.

- Lakewood township committee meeting tonight virtual only watch live stream Here see agenda Here:
Agenda Items
-Approve new annual  salary of $15,000 for the fire commissioners.
-Eleanor Levovitz Senior Apartments – Tax Exemption Extension Location: 500 Clifton Avenue Extend the tax exemption for the 150-unit senior housing complex until December 31, 2057, or until affordability requirements expire.
- A New Handicap Parking slot In front of Satmar Shul, 405 Forest Avenue
- 30 year Tax abatements for the new buildings going  up in Cedarbridge Park 
 - Bond Ordinance  $5.79 Million for Capital Improvements Financing:$5.5 million through bonds and notes $290,000 down payment from township capital fund
Playground renovations and new equipment: $1.76 million
Public Works vehicles & equipment: $2.05 million
public comments can be submitted during the meeting vie email comments@lakewoodnj.gov

- NJ American Water has notified customers that paper billing will be discontinued. To continue receiving paper bills, customers must re-enroll online; otherwise, billing will automatically go paperless.

- Ocean County provisionals ballots are in!
Lakewood:
Ciattarelli 1230 (94%)
Sherrill 76 (6%)
Rest of Ocean County
Ciattarelli 1181 (51.5%)
Sherrill 1009 (48.5%)

- ShopRite Livingston,NJ Expands Kosher 50% larger than before, featuring expanded offerings of meats, including beef, lamb, brisket and veal; seafood, deli items, frozen foods , and dairy products including blintzes and matzo ball soup

- A group of 170 Israeli widows and orphans who lost loved ones on Oct 7 & in the ongoing war are on a healing mission in Orlando led by Rabbi Mendy Kenig of Menucha V’Yeshua and will spend Shabbos Parshas Chayei Sara at the Berkeley Hotel in Deal, NJ.

- Restaurant review of Milk Crate Kosher Café in Lakewood located at 1600 NJ 70 in Lakewood, New Jersey. The café is Chalav Yisrael and is kosher certified under Tartikov. Hours are Monday through Thursday from 8:30am to 5:00pm, Friday from 8:30am to 2:00pm, and Sunday from 10:00am to 5:00pm. see review

- Article The Lakewood Orthodox Jewish machine. Sherrill’s margin in deep-blue Newark the state’s largest city was nearly identical to Ciattarelli’s in Lakewood, with Sherrill winning Newark by 79 points (a 36,600-vote margin) and Ciattarelli winning Lakewood by 80 points (a 31,700-vote margin). This highlights how the Orthodox bloc has transformed Lakewood into one of New Jersey’s most powerful Republican voting centers. more

- Toronto city officials have announced that a Palestinian flag will be raised at City Hall next week in honor of “Palestinian Independence Day.”

- Baruch Matir Asurim:  An Iraqi Kurdish judge has officially rescinded the death sentence of Binyamin ben Limor Chasin following the successful completion of a sulcha peace settlement earlier yestertday in Kurdistan. This historic decision ends a decade-long ordeal and intense pidyon shvuyim efforts on Chasin’s behalf. Chasin, imprisoned in Iraq since 2015, is now finally free from the threat of execution. He was visited in prison yesterday by Dayan Rav Chid"a Weiss of Antwerp, a global advocate for pidyon shvuyim, who has been deeply involved in efforts to secure his release.

-  The end of penny production won’t stop pressed penny collecting. Machine owners will likely switch to using blank copper or zinc disks, which are already available for collectors. Machines can continue operating normally, and pressed pennies may even gain nostalgic or collectible value once real pennies are no longer produced.

- New Jersey Lt. Governor Tahesha Way is expected to join the race for Governor-elect Mikie Sherrill’s congressional seat in New Jersey’s 11th district, adding a major contender to an already crowded Democratic field in a primary expected to be held early next year,
(NJ Globe)

- Gishmei bracha first winter rain begins to fall in Eretz Yisrael with rainstorms through shabbos



Wednesday, November 12, 2025

Oif Simchas Wed 22 Cheshvan

Chasunas:
Wolpin - Levin Kesser Moshe Yehuda
Adler - Klein Fountain Ballroom
Maller - Gross Ateres Esther 

- Shiur in Tanya with Amshinov Rebbe at 910 E. County line Lakewood after 10:00pm Maariv 


Israel News Wed Nov 12

 Day 768

- The Red Cross and Hamas are reportedly working to locate the bodies of deceased Israeli hostages for return. This might be taking place beyond the yellow line, on the Israeli side of Gaza.

- US envoy jared kushner and the IDF are working (separately) on alternative plans for Gaza, in case the 20-point framework fails.

Wednesday November 12 News Updates Lakewood

 Weather: 
Weather: 53° Cloudy with sunshine later

The Mega Millions jackpot has risen to an estimated $965 million, with the next drawing scheduled for Friday night.

- Trump signs bill to reopen govt after longest shutdiwn: "They shut down the government in an attempt to extort taxpayers for billions of dollars for illegal aliens. We’re sending a clear message we will never give in to extortion."

- The House just officially passed the bill to end the government shutdown. President Trump is expected to sign it into law tonight.

- Trump: The Democrats are trying to bring up the Jeffrey Epstein Hoax again because they’ll do anything at all to deflect on how badly they’ve done on the Shutdown, and so many other subjects. Only a very bad, or stupid, Republican would fall into that trap. The Democrats cost our Country $1.5 Trillion Dollars with their recent antics of viciously closing our Country, while at the same time putting many at risk — and they should pay a fair price. There should be no deflections to Epstein or anything else, and any Republicans involved should be focused only on opening up our Country, and fixing the massive damage caused by the Democrats!

- Bingo Black Friday deals live now see full catalogue HERE 

- Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent said the Trump administration is considering limiting the proposed $2,000 tariff dividend to families earning under $100,000. He explained on Fox & Friends that “there are a lot of options,” but the rebate would likely focus on middle- and lower-income households.

- New Jersey Republican State Senator Jon Bramnick commented on the recent election results, saying that Jack Ciattarelli lost support among unaffiliated voters. He warned that Republicans in New Jersey cannot ignore these results, adding that if the party doesn’t “face reality,” it risks further losses in future elections.

- The White House has responded to the emails from Epstein's Estate that say Trump is "the dog who hasn't barked." and knew what was going on "The Democrats selectively leaked emails to the liberal media to create a fake narrative and a political distraction  to smear President Trump."

- FBI Director Kash Patel announced that the global fentanyl production pipeline has been shut down, with China agreeing to regulate all key precursors. He credited President Trump’s team for this historic move, saying it will save tens of thousands of lives.

- There will be a food giveaway today at the BlueClaws parking lot at 5:00 PM. Please note that this event is only for those who pre-registered, as registration was limited to 1,000 families.

- Health insurance costs in New Jersey are sharply rising for 2026, just as open enrollment begins. Premiums and out-of-pocket expenses are increasing across all types of plans employer-based, Affordable Care Act, and Medicare confirming earlier warnings from experts about steep price hikes.

- BDE: Petirah of Mrs. Suki Gross A'H (née Stavsky) wife of R’ Meir Gross of Westgate, and a longtime mechaneches and children’s books author. The levaya will take place today Wednesday at 2:30 PM at the chapel off 7th Street in Lakewood, with kevurah following at the adjacent bais olam.
She is survived by Ybl"c her husband, R’ Meir, her sons R’ Mordy and R’ Avrami, and her daughters Mrs. Mandelbaum, Mrs. Abrahamson, Mrs. Horowitz, Mrs. Hersh, Mrs. Bendkowski, Mrs. Bernstein, Michal, and Shulamis Gross.

- The school year has just begun, and kids are finally settling into their routines. The leaves are falling, and winter hasn’t even arrived yet but sleepaway camps are already closing registration for returning campers before opening to the public. Just like with playgroups, parents are being forced to make summer plans right now or risk losing their spots. Many families are even holding reservations knowing they might have to forfeit their deposits, simply because they don’t want to miss out and all of this is happening nine months before summer begins. Could it at least be pushed off until after Chanuka? 

- Down to the last Penny: The U.S. Mint will officially stop producing pennies, with today marking the last one ever minted in Philadelphia. Each penny costs taxpayers $3.7 to produce, and in FY2024 alone, the Mint lost $85.3 billion on penny production.

- Rav Moshe Hillel Hirsch Shlit”a is set to arrive in the U.S. on Tuesday, November 25, for two weeks of fundraising for Slabodka Yeshiva. He will split his time between New York and Lakewood New Jersey to attend various events.

- Rav Dov Landau shlita spoke yesterday at Yeshiva Daas Aaron in Yerushalyim "We are in a period where those who have not tasted the taste of the Torah are persecuting yeshiva bochurim and restricting their steps with gezeiros and various harassments. We hope with heavenly assistance that they will repent and stop these actions. We, the yeshiva students, our role is to continue with full vigor to fulfill our goal - to ensure that the Torah will flourish more and more here in eretz Yisroel".

Lakewood election data:Jack Ciattarelli performed 58 percentage points better in Lakewood this year compared to 2021. Despite the Vaad’s endorsement of Governor Murphy in that earlier race when Ciattarelli still captured about 62% of the vote his support surged significantly this time. He also netted roughly 27,000 more votes in Lakewood alone.

conservative commentator Mark Levin unleashed a fiery tirade against Tucker Carlson, branding him a “Nazi promoter” and “modern-day David Duke” during a segment of The Mark Levin Show.

A 2025 Retirement Living survey ranks New Jersey as the fourth-worst state to retire in, citing poor healthcare and quality of life. Retirees need about $964,000 in savings to live comfortably, with the state’s 2.23% property tax and 10.75% income tax among the nation’s highest.

- A powerful geomagnetic storm from a major solar eruption lit up the skies Tuesday night, making the Northern Lights visible as far south as southern New Jersey. The phenomenon followed a severe space weather alert issued after the sun released one of its strongest eruptions of the current solar cycle, sending a huge cloud of plasma toward Earth. They may repeat in half the country Wednesday, including in New Jersey.

- NYT: Emails obtained by democrats in Congress show that Jeffrey Epstein claimed Donald Trump knew of his conduct, alleging that Trump spent hours at Epstein’s house

- Israel to Offer 0% Income Tax for New Immigrants in 2026 for first 2 years according to a new proposal by the finance ministry 

- President Trump sent a letter to Israel’s President Isaac Herzog formally asking him to pardon Prime Minister Netanyahu, who is on trial for bribery, fraud, and breach of trust.Trump called it a unjust political trial. Herzog, declined to take a position on the matter, saying in a statement from his office that a pardon request must go through the proper channels.

- Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz announced on Wednesday that he intends to shut down the Army Radio station Galei Tzahal, ordering broadcasts to cease by March 1, 2026, and saying he will soon bring the proposal to the government for approval. Calling the operation of a civilian-style broadcaster by the military “an anomaly unheard of in any democratic country in the world,” Katz said the move was necessary to protect the IDF’s nonpartisan status.

- The Township of Lakewood is selling several township-owned properties in Block 175 under the following minimum bid conditions they are located off E. Kennedy blvd in the Brookhill neighborhood.
Block 175, Lot 52: $1,380,000
Block 175, Lot 58: $1,380,000
Block 175, Lot 67: $500,000
Block 175, Lot 69: $1,320,000
These prices represent the minimum bids required for the sale of the properties. The 30 day bids begin after the ordnance reading at the township meeting.