by Simcha R. Klal Yisroel was plunged into mourning late last night with the petirah of the great gaon, Rav Chanoch Aryeh Friedman זצ״ל, Rosh Kollel and Av Beis Din of Kollel Beis Yechiel in the Har Nof neighborhood of Yerushalayim.

Shortly before Purim, Rav Chanoch traveled to the United States to raise funds for the kollel. Despite being in a weakened state, he insisted on making the journey, feeling a responsibility for the yungerleit who depended on him for the kollel’s support. While in Chicago, he fell ill over Purim and remained in critical condition from that time onward.
After battling his illness for approximately a month and a half, he returned his neshamah to its Creator late last night, leaving behind a grieving family, kehillah, talmidim, and the wider Torah world.

Rav Chanoch Friedman was born and raised in Chicago, where he began his Torah education at Skokie Yeshiva. At the young age of 16, he traveled to Lakewood to learn in Beth Medrash Govoha, where he studied under Rabbi Aharon Kotler זצ״ל. He was one of the youngest talmidim of Rav Aharon at th time. During his years in Lakewood, he learned b’chavrusa with Rabbi Moshe Hillel Hirsch, with whom he developed a close friendship.
Rav Chanoch was a towering talmid chacham, whose hasmadah was extraordinary. In addition to being fully immersed in the sugyos studied in the kollel, he would complete Shas Bavli and Shas Yerushalmi annually, marking a siyum each Simchas Torah.

Rav Friedman was the brother of Rabbi Avraham Friedman, Rosh Yeshiva Emerites of Skokie Yeshiva (HTC) and Mrs. Debbie Greenspan.

The levayah is scheduled to take place today, Erev Shabbos, Friday, April 10, at 2:00 p.m. at Congregation Adas Yeshurun, Chicago. A second levayah is scheduled to take place at 10:00 AM on Sunday at BMG in Lakewood, after which arrangements will be made for kevurah in Eretz Yisroel.

Yehi zichro baruch.

A local teen suffered serious injures from fireworks this afternoon, TLS has learned.

Shortly after noon today, a resident received a knock at the door and opened it to find a badly injured teen who asked to immediately call emergency personnel.

The boy, who suffered serious facial injuries, passed out moments after knocking on the door.

Upon arrival, the victim was treated by paramedics and hospitalized.

It’s unclear at this time if the teen was playing with the fireworks alone or with any others.

Police are investigating.

To have YOUR photos considered for publication, email them to [email protected] 

Lakewood Airport will receive a grant of $261,610 from the state to help with its master plan improvements.

The grant is one of 11 FY26 Airport Improvement Program grants to 11 airports totaling more than $6.5 million in state funds, and an additional $800,000 in FAA matching grant funds to support airport safety and improvement projects. These grants, which leverage state funding and airport contributions, will support approximately $7.3 million worth of work.

These grants, which leverage state funding and airport contributions, will support more than $7.6 million worth of work.

Grants are awarded through a competitive process, with an emphasis on projects designed to enhance safety, remove obstructions, rehabilitate existing facilities and equipment, and make capital improvements. The projects receiving funds this year include airport master plan development, taxiway design and construction, lighting improvements, obstruction removal, transient apron design & construction and safety improvements at 11 airports in nine counties throughout the state.

The 12 FY25 grants will be funded solely through NJDOT’s Transportation Trust Fund and Airport Safety Fund, with the state providing 90 percent of the eligible cost and the remaining 10 percent covered by the airport owner. Lakewood Airport will contribute $29,067 for this specific project.

Submitted PSA: Gluten Free Gemach

The following is a local list of drop off locations for Gluten-Free items.

לעילו נשמת ברכה בת צבי פינחס הכהן
לעילו נשמת קריינדל בת חיים שלום טובי’ גדלי’

**Please note:** We only accept unopened, Gluten free products. **No gebrokts!**

If you have items that need to be refrigerated, pls make sure the volunteer knows about it.

* **Jackson:** Bick 68 Forest Dr 732-363-2796
* **Jackson:** Chaya, 8 Spectrum Ct. 917-613-0712
* **Jackson:** Werner, 17 Imperial Place 718-866-6013
* **Lakewood (Albert Area):** Murik 1486 Towers St 908-910-0580
* **Lakewood (Coventry):** Goldstein, 137 Williamsburg Lane 347-522-7960 **NOTE, STARTING FROM SUNDAY ONLY**
* **Lakewood (New England Village):** Kleinman 145 Cannonball Dr 917-627-1649
* **Lakewood (Oak and Vine):** Goldring, 94 Wadsworth Ave 347-526-2688
* **Lakewood (Raintree):** Litvintchouk 1281 County Line Rd E 718-288-9092
* **Lakewood (Ridge):** Maslow 461 Manetta Ave 732-664-7073
* **Lakewood (squankum):** Serebrowski, 314 Lawrence Ave 917-754-1110
* **Lakewood (Sterling Place):** Bendkowski 59 Rena lane 848-299-7306
* **Lakewood (Somerset & kennedy):** Raitzik 1143 Somerset Ave 732-996-2362
* **Lakewood:** Hershberg 364 New Central Ave 848-525-0358
* **Toms River:** Feferkorn, 3 Salvatore Dr. 347-482-6881
* **Toms River:** Halpern 2080 Whitesville Rd 848-299-9125 *(text only, no dropoffs before Sunday April 12)*
* **Toms River:** Vicky Avshalom, 2214 Vermont Ave 908-907-2295
* **Toms River:** Weldler 4 Maplecrest Ct 201-638-9727
* **Manchester:** Goldstein 2416 Steiner rd Manchester NJ 848-525-3344

Tizku L’Mitzvos

[[email protected]](mailto:[email protected]) • 845-232-1276

A  pedestrian was struck and killed in a late-night collision on Route 9 in Manalapan, authorities said.

According to Monmouth County Prosecutor Raymond S. Santiago, the incident occurred Tuesday, April 7, at approximately 10:56 p.m., when officers from the Manalapan Police Department responded to the southbound lanes of Route 9 near 355 Route 9 and Russell Court.

A preliminary investigation found that a male driver operating a 2018 Nissan Frontier was traveling in the left lane when his vehicle struck a pedestrian, propelling her onto the right shoulder of the roadway.

The victim, identified as 72-year-old Deborah Ross, was pronounced dead at the scene at 11:26 p.m.

The driver remained at the scene following the crash.

The investigation, led by the Monmouth County Prosecutor’s Office, along with the Monmouth County Serious Collision Analysis Response Team (SCART) and the Manalapan Police Department, remains active and ongoing.

Anyone with information is urged to contact MCPO Detective Nicolas Logothetis at 732-431-7160 ext. 5412 or Manalapan Police Officer Edward Burns at 732-446-4300.

No charges or summonses have been issued at this time.

New Jersey motorists across the state will have more time to get their vehicles inspected this spring and summer after the state Motor Vehicle Commission announced it is automatically extending hundreds of thousands of inspection sticker expiration dates in connection with the permanent closure of a major Newark inspection facility.

The Newark Inspection Station at will close this weekend to make way for a new, expanded and modernized agency. To ease the transition for affected drivers statewide, the MVC is pushing back expiration dates by three months for any valid inspection sticker set to expire between April and July 2026.

Under the extensions, stickers expiring in April will now be valid through July; May stickers through August; June stickers through September; and July stickers through October. The extensions are automatic — no action is required by vehicle owners.

The move affects motorists throughout New Jersey, as the Newark station serves drivers from across the region and its closure reduces the overall capacity of the state inspection network.

Drivers who wish to complete their inspections before their new deadline may do so at any of the state’s remaining inspection stations, or at any of more than 1,100 private inspection facilities operating statewide.

A full list of state and private inspection locations is available at NJMVC.gov.

Jackson Township Police have announced a new round of traffic enforcement that will be taking place over the coming months, with a focus on reducing accidents and improving driver safety on local roads.

According to the department, enhanced enforcement details will run from April through September as part of a state-funded initiative through the New Jersey Division of Highway Traffic Safety. The grant, known locally as the Crash Abatement and Tactics (C.A.T.) program, is aimed at targeting the primary causes of serious and fatal crashes.

The stepped-up enforcement follows a significant number of crashes recorded in Jackson over the past year. In 2025 alone, the township saw 1,629 motor vehicle crashes. Of those, 29 resulted in serious bodily injury, including 11 that were fatal.

Officials say the increase in traffic volume throughout Jackson has made both enforcement and driver education a continued priority. As part of the initiative, officers will be assigned to areas throughout the township that are known for higher crash activity.

Police say drivers can expect a visible presence and should be mindful of common violations that often lead to accidents. These include speeding, running red lights, distracted driving, failure to wear seatbelts, right-of-way violations, and driving while impaired. Officers will be taking enforcement action when necessary, while also working to educate drivers on safer habits behind the wheel.

The department emphasized that the overall goal of the initiative is not just enforcement, but reducing serious injuries and fatalities on local roadways.

Mordechai (Motty) Twerski, of Lakewood, has been appointed to the National Emergency Medical Services Advisory Council (NEMSAC), TLS has learned. The NEMSAC is a federal advisory body that provides recommendations to the U.S. Department of Transportation and helps shape national EMS policy.

After endorsement by many State & County Officials, Twerski, well known in the community for his dedication to public service and advocacy, will join NEMSAC’s board to contribute insight on strengthening emergency medical systems and supporting first responders nationwide.

In his role, Twerski will collaborate with EMS leaders, medical experts, and federal partners as NEMSAC evaluates emerging needs and works to enhance prehospital care across the country.

“I am grateful for the opportunity to serve on NEMSAC,” Twerski told TLS. “EMS providers play a vital role in every community, and I look forward to contributing to efforts that support them and the lifesaving work they do.”

Twerski has been appointed to the NJ OEMS Board in 2018 by the Governor and has served as one of the Ocean County EMS Coordinators since 2019. He also serves in Hatzolah of Central Jersey for over a decade,

Community members and local officials expressed pride in Twerski’s appointment, noting the significance of having representation from Lakewood and the County on a national EMS advisory body.

The state of New Jersey has fully reopened its Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP) to all eligible families, restoring access to a subsidized care program that had previously been subject to enrollment limits.

The Department of Human Services said new applications are now being accepted after some families transitioned off the program, creating capacity for additional enrollments.

The program provides subsidized child care to income-eligible parents who are working, attending school or participating in job training.

Last summer, New Jersey stopped accepting new applications for the program after a funding shortage forced the state to cap enrollment, leaving many families without access to subsidies.

Last year, then New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy signed into law a bipartisan measure sponsored by Assemblyman Avi Schnall which expanded program eligibility to include full-time graduate and post-graduate students.

Under that law, which Agudath Israel advocated for and lobbied in support of, full-time graduate and post-graduate students who meet existing income, asset, and residency requirements will also be eligible for subsidized child care through the program. However, the law was dependent on sufficient funds, which the budget has not yet supported.

The program has been providing subsidies for nearly 70,000 children across the state – with over 6,000 of those in the Lakewood area – at a cost of approximately $872 million in state and federal funds.

Families can apply at ChildCareNJ.gov, where they will be directed to the state’s MyNJHelps application system. Once all required documents are submitted, local Child Care Resource and Referral agencies have 30 days to make an eligibility determination.

Gov. Mikie Sherrill’s proposed fiscal year 2027 budget includes $18 million in additional funding for the program, which the department said would allow it to serve up to 77,500 children. New Jersey has invested more than $1 billion in new child care funding since 2018, and provider reimbursement rates have more than doubled over that period.

Officials also encouraged families to explore other options, including federally funded Head Start programs and free preschool for three- and four-year-olds offered through some school districts.

We will not be updating any of our platforms from sundown this evening until after sundown on Thursday in observance of Pesach.

Trauma and all negative experiences are not just held in the mind as thoughts, memories and stories about what happened to us. We experience it as reactions, emotions and sensations in our bodies even when our minds don’t understand why we feel the way we do. That’s the way we are wired.

אמונה is that way too. We are used to thinking of אמונה and בטחון as something we need to work on with our minds. To instill in our minds, again and again, our belief that Hashem is in charge and is holding us and taking care of us.

I personally find that to be a difficult path to אמונה. I believe but can still be afraid. My mind knows the truth yet the story in my mind doesn’t change. Trying to change the story often doesn’t work.

That path can make אמונה feel out of reach and only accessible to a select few on a very high level.

The first of the עשרת הדברות is אנוכי ה. Some ראשונים understand that as the מצוה of אמונה. The question is asked that אנוכי is a statement, there is no , ציווי as in other מצוות. Why not? I heard a beautiful answer said in the name of the Steipler. אמונה is not something we have a choice over. It’s a reality that Hashem created every Jew with, it’s hardwired into us . We have אמונה within us whether we like it or not and we therefore cannot have a ציווי of אמונה. Our choice is whether to access and connect to that reality or we stray from the אמונה that is inside of us. The מצוה is not to believe, it is to stay connected to the reality that we already believe, אנוכי ה.

How do we stay connected to that reality? אמונה is not a story in the mind that we tell ourselves. We don’t need to work on our beliefs, we already believe. We need to experience our belief, the אנוכי ה that is already there. To experience our אמונה, we need to get out of our heads and into our bodies.

One of the most universal and foundational psychological skills is the ability to let go. (Also called surrendering, accepting, and many other names.) Letting go is not primarily a mental process. It’s a physiological process that is hardwired into us. We do it naturally all the time without realizing it.

When our mind tries to solve something we cannot (such as the future or anything beyond our control), our body tenses and braces for threat.

Letting go is essentially giving up and allowing our body to stop bracing.

It’s when you take a deep breath and allow your body to relax even though the problem remains. Because there’s nothing else you can do. Paradoxically, as soon as you do that, a wave of serenity will wash over you and be experienced at every level, mental, emotional and physical.

Giving up and letting go is a physical act of אמונה, done with our bodies. The serenity that washes over you is the result of letting go. You don’t need to work on attaining that serenity. Hashem wired that into you as a freebie if you do your part: letting go. We can choose to let go when we recognize that we don’t have control but also when we are under the illusion that we are in control.

Giving up and physically releasing the control that your body craves is within reach for every person in every moment because אמונה is hardwired into us. All we need to do is our task: letting go. The serenity of אמונה is Hashem’s gift to us when we do our part.

_______________________________

Chaim Moshe Steinmetz LISW is a psychotherapist in private practice and provides in person and telehealth therapy for a variety of issues. Visit Chaimmoshesteinmetz.com to get a free guide to “ Amino Acid Therapy for rapid relief of Anxiety, Insomnia and Stress”

If heading out with the kids this Chol Hamoed, this can be useful.

Via Status.

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Shas Yiden is a recognized 501(c)(3) organization

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We regret to inform you of the Petirah of Rebbetzin Doris Fine A”H, wife of HaRav Mordechai Dov Fine Shlit”a, Morah D’asra of Machzikei Hadas of Scranton.

She is the mother of Rebbetzin Becky Charlop A”H (Cleveland), Rav Yoni Fine (Lakewood), Mrs. Esti Frankel (Lakewood), Rav Menachem Fine (Chicago), Mrs. Chevy Weisler (Lakewood), R’ Zvi Fine (Lakewood), R’ Meir Fine (Chicago), R’ Dovid Fine (Eretz Yisroel), and Mrs. Penina Akerman (Philadelphia).

The Levaya is scheduled to take place Monday morning at 9:30 AM at the Lakewood Chapel, 613 Ramsey Avenue, Lakewood.

The aron will then depart from JFK Airport for kevurah in Eretz Yisroel at approximately 12:00 PM, from 75 North Hangar Road, Cargo Building D, Queens, NY. Tehillim and a gathering will take place depending on timing.

Baruch Dayan Ha’emes.

Videos on TLS Status and TLS Community

We regret to inform you of the sudden Petirah of Rebbetzin Reva Halpern A”H, wife of Rav Binyomin Zev Halpern, rov of Khal Bais Halevi of Lakewood.

The Rebbetzin suddenly collapsed and was Niftar at JSUMC.

She is a sister of Reb Dovid Schustal and Reb Shlomo Feivel Schustal. She was 76.

The Levaya is tentatively scheduled to take place in Lakewood. Details will be announced once confirmed.

UPDATE: The Levaya is scheduled to take place at 8:15pm tonight at Rabbi Halpern’s Shul, 705 Valley Drive, Lakewood. Kevurah in Lakewood.

Baruch Dayan Ha’emes.

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Stop guessing, struggling, and juggling.

Visit the Gentech Center in Lakewood or Flatbush and get a tech solution that actually fits your life, your standards, and your needs.

👉 Learn more HERE!

Dr. Roberts tells TLS the shows and animals will be in tents – which are pretty much attached – so the events will go on even if it rains.

The motorcycle show, held outside, may need to be cancelled.

Umbrellas are still recommended.

Arbitration in Family Law – Advantages

Jeff J. Horn – NJ Family Law Attorney

Control the Process of Private Arbitration in Family Law: Advantages, Disadvantages & Steps – “Minkowitz v. Israeli”.
Hire a neutral professional to mediate and arbitrate a family law case. Save time & money with private arbitration.
Learn how to select an arbitrator and file papers with the court.
Understand the process of mediation & arbitration in family law cases.

Get a binding decision by the arbitrator. Understand the narrow grounds for vacating an arbitration award.

Control is the primary advantage to private arbitration in family law. Your family law attorneys control part of the process. You control when the hearings will be conducted.
Clients and family law attorneys direct the focus of the arbitrator. You and your family law attorneys select the arbitrator.
As a result, you have the power to select the rabbinical court through Bais Din, lawyer or retired judge with experience in your particular family law dispute.

Clearly – time and money can be saved. For the complex family law case, hiring a private arbitrator can save the parties substantial money.
Even though you are paying the arbitrator, the speed and focus of arbitration shortens the duration of the litigation.
Naturally, shortening the litigation means mass and legal fees.
Similarly, because the arbitrator focuses exclusively on your case i.e. one case at a time, the litigation can move much more quickly.

Can you appeal the arbitrator’s opinion?
Appeals of arbitrator opinions can be only brought on the most narrow grounds. Only in rare circumstances does an arbitration award get reversed in civil court.

Minkowitz v. Israeli – citation from this important family law and divorce arbitration case.

Of course, Arbitration costs money up front.

Family law judges do not “charge” you to preside over a case. You, the litigants, pay the private arbitrator. Hence, the “value” of the case submitted to private arbitration in family law must be significant.

What do I do with my opinion or order coming out of private arbitration family law?

The opinion is binding. The private arbitrator’s opinion becomes an order of the court. Optimally, you will file papers with the court. But, know that family court judges are thrilled when an important case is resolved through private arbitration. The case is resolved.

The matter is off the docket. Precious time can be devoted to other cases Again, not every case is a candidate for private arbitration.
To the contrary, the case must have a lot at stake in terms of child issues and or financial issues.
Furthermore, arbitration is the cousin of mediation. Virtually all family law cases are submitted to some form of mediation.

Can a family law case be submitted to mediation and arbitration?

Yes. However, very strict language must be built into the arbitration agreement.

Critically, the parties must agree, in advance, to permit the arbitrator to serve in the dual roles of arbitrator and mediator.

Oftentimes, the process is to hire a neutral professional or rabbinical arbitrator. Then, attempt to mediate issues.
Certain issues will be mediated and the dispute narrowed. Once narrowed, the neutral professional switches hats and becomes your binding arbitrator.

While our staff enjoys Yom Tov with their family and friends, posts on TLS forums will be limited to topics related to the Chag.

We will not be responding to any non-Yom-Tov-related ad requests during Chol Hamo’ed.

Wishing you a Gut Mo’ed and Chag Same’ach!

The Lakewood Matzoh bakery, located at 501 Prospect St, unit 104b, will once again be baking Erev Pesach Matzos.

The Matzos will be available for pickup from the bakery from 1:30-4pm today, Erev Pesach.

Matzos are sold in sets of 6, for $90.

No pre-order is necessary.

Limited availability. First-come-first-serve.

Cash or check only.

The LPD today is taking delivery of 30 Cyber Trucks as they begin to replace their aging cars with up-to-date EVs, TLS has learned.

The move was welcomed by Elon Musk himself, who stated, “I think it’s great. We’re seeing more and more departments making the switch.”

Chief Meyer tells TLS the first batch of vehicles were actually purchased with a grant they applied for after reading about it on the Scoop.

The first vehicles could be seen on the road as early as this week.

(TLS – April 1st Division)

When I was younger, life was fairly simple. Everything made perfect sense. For every question, there were prepackaged answers — neat, polished, and tied up with a bow. Even the bigger, existential ones — why the Holocaust happened, why suffering exists, why what we were doing truly mattered — had clear-cut explanations, complete with sources, mashalim, and sometimes even a quiet disbelief that anyone could still be asking.

Mitzvos were a kind of spiritual brownie-point system, with extra credit for pain and suffering. And of course, Torah was worth everything put together.

And then life happened, as it does.

Things became heavier, more complicated, more painful. Suddenly, the explanations that once felt so solid no longer explained much at all. They didn’t resonate. If I’m being honest, they mostly just frustrated me.

So I started asking.

I spoke to talmidei chachamim, rebbeim, mechanchim, and mentors — people I respected deeply. But all the king’s horses and all the king’s men couldn’t put me back together again. Not because they weren’t sincere and compassionate, and not because what they were saying was false, but because I already knew the script.

Being very well learned, I knew what they were going to say before they said it. And I knew that their words would do nothing to calm the storm inside my soul.

My mind raced constantly. Davening, which had once been so rich and meaningful, now mainly consisted of one word: “why?” The mitzvos that once seemed so clear-cut and simple now felt as if they belonged to another galaxy.

And maybe the hardest part wasn’t even the questions themselves. It was what I feared they said about me.

Why couldn’t I just accept the simple answers? Why did everything suddenly feel so unsettled? What had changed in me? And more frighteningly — what was wrong with me? Was this a failure of emunah? Wasn’t I supposed to live with simple faith? Were my thoughts heretical? Was I an apikores?

At some point, in the middle of that confusion, I found myself saying words I had never said before, one Shemoneh Esrei after the next:

Hashem, I have no idea what is going on or why You are doing this to me. I know one thing — no one else can help me. I tried. You are the only one I can turn to. So I am begging You: You be my teacher. Show me the answers I need to find.

And somehow, slowly, He did.

Someone recommended a book I had never heard of. I clicked on a shiur I normally would have passed over. I needed to look up a quote in a sefer that had never been in my orbit. Two hours later, I was still there.

I began discovering ideas I could never have understood as a bachur — not because I wasn’t intelligent enough, but because they reached a depth the younger me simply wasn’t ready for.

They resonated with something far more real than the tidy explanations I had once relied on — they were true in a way that could be felt to my core.

My relationship with Hashem began to feel entirely different. Emunah was no longer just an idea I believed in; it became the fabric of how I experienced reality. And mitzvos slowly became less about earning reward and more about yearning for connection.

Over time, I realized something surprising.

The answers I had once thought were shallow were not always shallow at all. In many cases, they were true — deeply true — but they had been handed to me in a form that had never really been unpacked. The people giving them over were often sincere, but they had never needed to dig beneath the surface.

And so, when life demanded more of me, I was left holding answers that were true, but too thinly held to carry the weight I was placing on them.

That was deeply validating.

Even more so was discovering that the Alter of Kelm had observed this very phenomenon over a hundred years ago.

That insight changed something for me. It helped me see that my questions were not necessarily a disease or a sign that something had gone wrong. They were a form of growth — Hashem’s way of pushing me out of a childish understanding toward something more mature, more grounded, and more real.

That idea stayed with me.

It didn’t remove the pain of the questions. It didn’t make them easier. And it certainly didn’t guarantee that others would understand. But it made them far less lonely.

And maybe that is part of what the Seder teaches us every year.

The night most devoted to emunah is also the night most built around asking — the same things, year after year — because the deepest truths in Yiddishkeit are not meant to stay frozen at the level we first learned them. They are meant to deepen with us, to be revisited, re-asked, and re-lived as we grow.

This truth extends far beyond Pesach.

Maybe the questions we fear most are not there to push us away. Maybe they are there to bring us closer — to a deeper understanding, to a deeper connection, to a deeper faith.

Mordechai Penner.

[email protected]

TLS welcomes your letters by submitting them to us via  Whatsapp  or via email  [email protected]

Doppelt - Pesach - Vanitzak 5786 - LETTER

The Lakewood Fire Department’s new Rehabilitation & Care (RAC) Unit is nearing completion and is expected to be delivered in early May.

As first reported on TLS, The new truck, a Ford F600, will be operated by Lakewood EMS during large fire incidents and other emergencies and will be stocked with medical and rehab equipment to monitor and treat first responders during emergencies. This will replace their aging, 25-year-old Pierce Salvage Unit.

Besides for being a vital piece of equipment for the fire department in town, the RAC unit is an asset to surrounding municipalities and was used to assist firefighters battling the Shotgun Wildfire in Jackson in 2024.

Howell Township setting up for tomorrow’s Chometz Burning at Soldier Memorial Park on Squankum.

The hours tomorrow are 8:30 AM-12:00 PM.

The dumpster was once again sponsored by Moshe Dahari of Wynn’s Bins.

Many parents pay their Morahs and babysitters on the first of the month.

However, this year, April 1st falls on Erev Pesach, which means many will not be receiving payment until the kids return after Pesach.

These Morahs and babysitters heavy rely on this income in order to make Yom Tov, and it would mean a lot to them if they were paid today or tonight.

A vehicle fire and a separate blaze near a residence in South Toms River have led to serious criminal charges against a New York man, authorities said.

Ocean County Prosecutor Bradley D. Billhimer announced that on March 27, 2026, Tashaun Normand, 42, of Bronx, New York, was charged with two counts of Aggravated Arson and two counts of Possession of Destructive Devices in connection with an incident that occurred on March 23, 2026.

At approximately 3:15 p.m. on March 23, officers from the South Toms River Police Department and firefighters from the Manitou Park Fire Company responded to a residence on Belmont Drive for a reported vehicle fire. Upon arrival, first responders observed flames inside a 2010 GMC Terrain, as well as a separate fire burning in a nearby grassy area. Both fires were extinguished.

During their response, officers discovered a broken glass bottle and another intact bottle containing an unknown liquid with a torn rag inserted—consistent with a Molotov cocktail.

An investigation conducted by the Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office Major Crime Unit-Arson Squad, South Toms River Police Department Detective Bureau, Ocean County Fire Marshal’s Office, and Ocean County Sheriff’s Office Crime Scene Investigation Unit determined that the fire originated at the front windshield of the vehicle and was intentionally set using an open flame and available combustibles.

Authorities further determined that Normand was responsible for constructing and throwing the Molotov cocktails at the vehicle and in the direction of the residence.

Normand was apprehended on March 30, 2026, in Monroe County, Tennessee, by the Tennessee Highway Patrol without incident. He is currently being held in the Monroe County Jail pending extradition to New Jersey.

Prosecutor Billhimer praised the coordinated efforts of all agencies involved in the investigation.

Authorities are investigating after Swastikas were found sprayed on boxes delivered to the Burger Bar restaurant in Jackson.

The proprietor of Burger Bar tells TLS he found multiple swastikas on the delivered order.

Anyone with information should call police.

by Rabbi Eliezer Sandler

The concept of the Yissachar-Zevulun Torah Learning Pact goes back well over 3,500 years, to the time of Yaakov Avinu and his sons. It is named for the Torah pact between two of his sons – Yissachar the scholar and Zevulun the merchant. Not only was it an equal pact but, Chazal explained, the deed of Zevulun/the Sponsor is considered even greater than that of Yissachar, because without the support of Zevulun, Yissachar would not have had the wherewithal to study Torah undisturbed.”

It is well-known that when it comes to learning Torah, people who sponsor the learning, often do so, not just as a donation. By financially supporting specific Torah scholars, they enter into a binding, written, signed and sealed learning partnership pact whereby the Sponsor (the Zevulun) is deemed by Halacha as if he personally studied the Torah completed by the Scholar (the Yissachar). (See below.)

Thus, those who support the Talmidei Chachomim at Shas Yiden via a Yissachar-Zevulun Pact merit a portion in every daf of the entire Talmud Bavli and associated texts that they study, and complete the entire cycle in the space of ONE year. Some of the Sponsors opt to continue sponsoring repeat cycles of Shas which accrue to them.

Sar Hatorah, Maran Hagaon Harav Chaim Kanievsky, zt”l, Nasi Shas Yiden, emphasized: The most mehudar Yissachar-Zevulun pact to support in our times is that offered by Shas Yiden – it comprises the entire Shas, Rashi and Tosfos – all in just one year!

Rav Chaim explained why this pact with Shas Yiden is the most mehudar. Chazal say that the highest level of learning is when one understands what he is learning b’iyun u’ve’amkus. However, even higher than that is when one remembers b’al peh all what he has learned. I have farhered the Shas Yiden avreichim geonim many times and can attest ZEI KENNEN SHAS (they know Shas)!

YES! YOU CAN MAKE

your OWN SIYUM on the ENTIRE

Shas, Rashi & Tosfos

IN JUST ONE YEAR!

The Yissachar-Zevulun Pact in Halacha

The Shulchan Aruch in Yoreh De’ah Chapter 246 regarding the efficacy of the Yissachar-Zevulun Sponsorship Pact for the Zevulun (the Sponsor) states clearly:  It is deemed as if he (the one sponsoring the learning) himself learned all the Torah studied under the pact.

All the learning under the Shas Yiden Yissachar-Zevulun Pact is yours בעוה”ז ובעוה”ב (in both This World and the World to Come)! Concerning this, the Netziv of Volozhin comments that in Olam Habah, the Zevulun sponsor will sit together with the Gedolei Torah of the past and merit to participate in their discussions and pilpulim on all the Torah learned.

Achieve Almost 7 million Mitzvos in One Year

The Vilna Gaon in Shnos Eliyahu Pe’ah 41 states that one should hold precious every word of Torah that he learns because each word is considered a mitzvah of its own.

Thus, since in Talmud Bavli, Rashi and Tosfos there are 6,608,891 words, that translates into almost 7 million mitzvos accruing through Yissachar-Zevulun at Shas Yiden.

Official Shtar from Shas Yiden

Each Yissachar-Zevulun pact is confirmed by an official contract (shtar) from Shas Yiden specifying the learning of the entire Shas, and is witnessed by talmidei chachomim.

All who wish to enter into a Yissachar-Zevulun Pact for the entire Shas during ONE year should contact Shas Yiden to make arrangements: 718-702-1528.

The opportunity to complete the entire Shas has been a cherished way to honor family members and others as a prized achievement. It has also proven to be a source of comfort for mourners to obtain such a zechus for their dear ones during the year of mourning – a siyum of the entire Shas can be completed on the yahrzeit!

Yissachar-Zevulun Pact –

Beyond the Grave

The legendary visionary and “Father of Yeshivos”, Reb Chaim of Volozhin, was the founder of the famous yeshiva in the town of Volozhin and the beloved talmid of the Vilna Gaon. 

Reb Chaim had an ongoing Yissachar-Zevulun pact with a local shoemaker – a man who was not learned but who dearly valued Torah learning. They had a ‘deal’ whereby the shoemaker would pay the monthly financial support needed for Reb Chaim and his family. For this financial support, the shoemaker would have an equal share in all Reb Chaim’s daily Torah study – both in the mitzvah of Torah study בעוה”ז and that the knowledge of the Torah learned would continue to be his בעוה”ב (in the World to Come).

One day the shoemaker passed away suddenly. During the shiva period, Reb Chaim was facing a perplexing halachic question and researched high and low for a solution. That night the shoemaker appeared to him in a dream and gave him the full solution that he sought. Reb Chaim was amazed and commented, “Azoi gich, Azoi Gich – So quickly, so quickly has he acquired the zchus and knowledge of the Torah that I have studied!”

In the words of Gedolei Torah:

Maran Hagaon Harav Chaim Kanievsky, zt”l, Nasi Shas Yiden:

“In just ONE year, through Yissachar-Zevulun at Shas Yiden, you can be zoche to the entire Shas forever – בעוה”ז ובעוה”ב (in olam hazeh and olam habah).

“Moreover, whoever supports Shas Yiden is zocheh to fulfill both Yissachar-Zevulun and support of aniyei (the poor of) Eretz Yisroel in the fullest sense of the word.

“Those who support Shas Yiden will be saved from chevlei (the travails of) Moshiach – spiritually and materially, and will be zoche to have ehrlicher bonim u’vanos yir’eishomayim ”

Maran Hagaon Harav Dov Lando, shlit”a, Rosh Yeshiva, Slabodka:

“Who compares to the Shas Yiden? Incredible talmidei chachomim geonim who raised the bar in limud Hashas b’iyun u’v’amkus. Blessed are those who enter a Yissachar-Zevulun pact with them.”

Hamashpia Hagadol Reb Meilech Biederman, shlit”a:

 “Yissachar-Zevulun at Shas Yiden – best possible deal, and in just 1 year! 100% partnership! 100% Shas x 5 times! 100% Shisha Sidrei Mishna – בעוה”ז ובעוה”ב”

Sanzer Rebbe, shlit”a:

“A first in 2000 years of Jewish history! Until Shas Yiden, never a Torah institution where ALL the avreichim metzuyonim v’geonim know the entire Shas by heart”

Harav Yaakov Hillel, shlit”a:

“Therefore, the great mitzvah to support the efforts [of the Talmidei Chachomim] with generous donations in order that they should continue diligently with their studies to enhance the greatness of the Torah and its glory.

ShasYiden.com

You can download it here. 

Meet the Kaplan family. This year, their youngest, Rivka, is undergoing intensive treatment. Instead of polishing silver and setting their dining room table, the Kaplans are navigating sterile corridors and counting down the minutes between infusions. For them, the four cups of wine are accompanied by the constant hum of medical monitors.

At Darchei Miriam, we believe that cancer should never have the power to steal a family’s joy or their connection to our sacred Pesach tradition.

Darchei Miriam provides funding for treatment, cheer-up events, food cornors and packages, financial aid, and just about anyhing that a family spending Pesach in a hospital may need.

Help Darchei Miriam to be able to continue bringing the Simchas Yom Tov to hundreds of families in desperate need!

$500 – Donate a Pesach Seder
$360 – Donate clothing for Yom Tov
$180 – Donate a Seudah
$100 – Donate a Chol Hamoed trip

Please Donate Here

May the zchus of your donation bring you health always, and a Chag Kosher V’Sameach!

The boy who was struck and seriously injured in Lakewood on Shabbos is making significant improvements, TLS has learned.

Daniel Shmuel Ben Shifra was walking on Hope Chapel Friday night when he was struck by a hit-and-run driver, and was left unconscious with serious injuries.

Thousands have been Davening for the boy, and the Tefillos are bringing results.

As of this morning, the boy has B”H opened his eyes, and has begun speaking.

He still has a way to go to a full recovery.

Please continue to be Mispallel for Daniel Shmuel Ben Shifra.

A New Jersey man admitted to a scheme to defraud elderly and other victims out of more than $1 million that he told the victims he would invest on their behalf or otherwise use for their benefit, U.S. Attorney Robert Frazer announced.

Antonio Petrosino, a/k/a Anthony Petrosino, 60, of Union City, New Jersey, pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge Stanley R. Chesler on March 25, 2026 to Count One of an Indictment charging him with wire fraud.

According to documents filed in the case and statements made in court:

From in or around January 2016 through in or around November 2024, Petrosino fraudulently induced the victims to transfer investment funds, mortgage payments, and other money to Petrosino. As part of the scheme to defraud, Petrosino held himself out to be a financial services professional to his victims and falsely led them to believe that he would invest the victims’ money in brokerage accounts and other investment products or otherwise use it for their benefit. To perpetuate his fraud, Petrosino provided one elderly victim with falsified investment statements that purported to show that she had hundreds of thousands of dollars deposited in various investment accounts in her name. Petrosino also made various statements to victims assuring them that their money had been invested or used as promised.

In reality, Petrosino failed to invest the victims’ funds or otherwise use victim monies for the victims’ benefit as promised. Instead, Petrosino misappropriated the money to pay for his personal expenses, including gambling, credit card payments, and rent on his luxury apartment unit. When confronted by victims about the status of the money they sent to Petrosino, he provided the victims and their family members false reassurances about the status of the victims’ funds to cover up his fraud. In total, Petrosino stole approximately $1.1 million from the victims.

The wire fraud charge that Petrosino pleaded guilty to carries a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison and a $250,000 fine, or twice the gross amount of gain or loss from the offense, whichever is greatest. Sentencing is scheduled for August 5, 2026.

U.S. Attorney Frazer credited special agents of the FBI, under the direction of Special Agent in Charge Stefanie Roddy in Newark; special agents of the Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System – Consumer Financial Protection Bureau, Office of Inspector General, under the direction of Special Agent in Charge Brian Tucker; and the Wyckoff Police Department, under the direction of Chief David V. Murphy, with the investigation leading to Petrosino’s indictment.

The government is represented by Assistant U.S. Attorney Jennifer Kozar, Co-Chief of the U.S. Attorney’s Office’s General Crimes Unit, and Assistant U.S. Attorney Sean Nadel of the Narcotics and International Trafficking Unit in Newark.

One of the most important things you can do to stay healthy and happy is to be in the now.

A few hundred years ago, this was probably a no-brainer. Life moved more slowly—no computers, no constant WhatsApp messages, no social media, no overwhelming to-do lists. People had fewer possessions and simpler routines.

But now things are different. Instead of moving 5 miles per hour, so to speak, we’re all moving at 120 mph. You can work a job and five side hustles while raising children. You can even use AI to write romantic poems to your wife.

But if you are moving 120 mph, then you are not going to see some of those beautiful flowers on the side of the road. And some of those beautiful flowers might actually be special moments with your children, like teaching them to dribble a soccer ball or write the letter Y.

Phones

Well, folks, I have to be honest. We’re in the 21st century and there’s no way I can write this article without talking about smartphones.

Phones may be the single biggest reason people are no longer living in the now. They constantly pull us out of the present moment—out of our bodies, out of our surroundings, and out of real connection with ourselves and others.

We check our phones while eating, while walking, while sitting with our children, and even while trying to fall asleep. Instead of being here, we’re somewhere else—scrolling, worrying, comparing, reacting.

And yet, so much of health depends on being able to come back to now.

What It Means to Be in the Now

Being in the now doesn’t mean meditating for an hour or emptying your mind completely. It’s much simpler than that.

It means sitting and breathing for a few seconds instead of checking your phone, eating your food and actually tasting it, being with your child and giving them your full attention, finishing one task before jumping to the next.

The body functions best when we are present. And this is when healing happens.

How We Leave the Now

Phones are the most obvious way we escape the present moment, but they’re not the only way.

People also leave the now through worrying about the future, replaying the past, fantasizing about a different life, criticizing themselves internally, planning endlessly instead of acting.

Interestingly, different personality types tend to escape the now in different ways.

Some people are constant planners. Others live in daydreams. Some get stuck in self-criticism. Others are always anticipating the next vacation, relationship, or achievement.

A Simple Tool for Awareness

One helpful framework for understanding how you tend to leave the present moment is the Enneagram. It’s a personality system that describes nine common patterns of thinking and reacting.

You can take a free Enneagram test online here: https://www.truity.com/test/enneagram-personality-test

Once you identify your type, ask yourself: How do I usually leave the now? What pulls my attention away most often?

Then choose three simple actions (in addition to using your phone less), three things to do less (for example, constant fantasizing or self-criticism), or three things to do more (like walks in nature or spending more time with your spouse) to bring yourself back into the moment.

The Rewards of Being Present

As people practice returning to the now, something interesting happens.

Moments start to feel fuller. Conversations feel more meaningful. People notice that you’re really there with them. Many report feeling calmer and happier, without trying to change anything else.

Even sleep improves. When the mind is less rushed and less tangled in thought, falling asleep becomes easier.

Digestion improves too. In Chinese medicine, we learn that you shouldn’t read or think intensely while eating. The ancient Chinese understood that excessive thinking disrupts digestion. Modern research now supports this idea—stress diverts blood flow away from the digestive system.

Acupuncture and the Now

This is also one of the quiet benefits of acupuncture.

Once a week, patients lie down, close their eyes, and stop doing. The nervous system slows. Thinking settles. The body shifts into repair mode. Over time, this becomes a kind of training—teaching the body what it feels like to be safe, calm, and present.

The body releases its “feel-good” chemicals not because something is forced, but because the system finally has permission to rest.

Many patients tell me they cherish their 1-2 hours of acupuncture each week because it is a reset. And here’s the beautiful part: that same kind of reset is available to you free of charge, without going anywhere, many times a day. All you have to do is pause and come back to now.

Coming Back, Again and Again

Living in the now is not something you master once. It’s a habit you practice, moment by moment.

Put the phone down. Take one breath. Taste your food. Look at the person in front of you.

And ultimately, change the structure of your life on a deep level, so being in the now is easier for you to do.

What does this mean practically? It means simplifying your life. Making more time to do things you love—being in nature, spending time with your kids, pursuing your hobbies. It means reassessing how much money you actually need to make. Reassessing whether you really have to work those long hours. Reassessing your relationship to your phone and all the ways it fragments your attention.

When you learn to return to the now, your body rewards you—with better digestion, better sleep, better relationships, and a greater sense of ease.

Your friends will notice. You will have something very special that is priceless—more presence.

Until next time, stay well—and may you be where the magic is. Right here in the now.

This one is for you. Thank you for bringing our community so many beautiful options to clothe our kids and ourselves for Yom Tov.

Without even discussing the price tags (which are already above the means of the average local family), I want to bring up something that has been upsetting from year to year (not exclusive to Yom Tov, but it definitely stings when it happens during this time).

Especially before Pesach, as you are well aware, most mothers are busy trying to catch their tails as they deal with cleaning and cooking, shopping, and errands as the clock ticks closer to Pesach.

It’s an impossible situation, and traffic in town, alongside the lack of parking availability, makes heading to the store (especially with kids) a dreadful and heart-stopping experience.

Oftentimes, there is simply no time at all to do proper shopping. And when you do get to the store, the mob scene, with thousands of families trying to compete for salesladies and dressing rooms (not to mention the lines at the registers), makes most mothers want to escape before they even start.

But then comes the problem. You find some “maybe it will work” options to try, the dressing rooms are full, the kids just want to watch Uncle Moishy or Twins from France, and the baby is crying. You’re waiting for the right sizes to be brought, you’re not managing to get the kids to stand still while they try things on, and your other kids are not with you, so you need to guess their sizes.

Simply put, you can either walk out with nothing or try what you have and hope it fits. But when you get home, it doesn’t fit.

The same goes for the two or three dresses you grabbed for yourself that you didn’t have time to try on because the kids were calling from home that they needed you urgently.

Shopping at a department store would make this crazy scenario a bit more manageable, because you can return items and get your (almost non-existent) money back, often with a decent grace period as well.

But for some reason, our stores make it so difficult to return and exchange. I have lost several hundred dollars to stores because I simply could not make it back that day, and in some cases, even the next day.

One year, I finally emerged from the house a day or two before Pesach to get something to wear for myself. The dresses I tried on quickly seemed to fit, but when I got home, I realized that they were not fitting tznius standards. They were not cheap, to say the least. I thought I’d return them the next day, but I missed the few hours they were open, and then I was stuck until after Pesach. When I tried to at least return or exchange them after Pesach, they said no. There was apparently a sign at the counter that said no returns after Pesach, so I had to swallow the loss of several hundred dollars.

I dread going to that store ever again.

So, my dear store owners, I understand that you need to protect yourselves.

But let me speak to you as a human, not as a business. Can you hear us customers as humans and not just business transactions? As hard-working mothers with such a tight, difficult balancing act, and pockets that aren’t endlessly filled with dollar bills?

Can you try to be more accommodating and understanding, with fair policies and not rigid, textbook answers relaying, “Too bad, your loss, we have your money now, and that’s all we care about”?

Thanks for listening. I know you’re not changing, but maybe a seed will be planted… maybe someday.

TLS welcomes your letters by submitting them to us via  Whatsapp  or via email  [email protected]

A Utah man has been charged after allegedly posing as an attorney and collecting tens of thousands of dollars from unsuspecting clients in Ocean County.

Ocean County Prosecutor Bradley D. Billhimer announced that on March 24, 2026, David T. Schlendorf, 54, of Holladay, Utah, was charged with four counts of Theft by Deception and five counts of Unauthorized Practice of Law.

An investigation by the Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office Economic Crime Squad and the Toms River Township Police Department Detective Bureau revealed that in March 2025, a Toms River resident hired Schlendorf for legal representation and paid him approximately $10,000. Authorities determined that Schlendorf misrepresented himself as a licensed attorney, despite having been disbarred in New Jersey in December 2022.

Schlendorf was taken into custody on October 7, 2025, in Toms River by detectives from the Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office and Toms River Police. He was transported to the Ocean County Jail and later released under New Jersey’s bail reform guidelines.

Further investigation uncovered additional victims. Authorities say that between January 2023 and September 2025, five more individuals hired Schlendorf for legal services, collectively paying him approximately $60,000.

Schlendorf has since been served with the additional charges via summons and is pending upcoming appearances in Ocean County Superior Court.

“We suspected there may be additional victims, and unfortunately we are finding this to be true,” Prosecutor Billhimer said. “Anyone with information concerning this defendant’s conduct should contact Detective Jason Putkowski of the Toms River Police Department or Sgt. Lindsay Llauget of the Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office.”

Prosecutor Billhimer commended the Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office Economic Crime Squad and the Toms River Township Police Department Detective Bureau for their efforts in the investigation.

More than two years after his well-received debut album, singer and songwriter Yechiel Schron proudly releases his brand-new album Bayis Ne’eman, a moving and uplifting collection of songs centered on the values that define Jewish life: Torah, Shabbos, Yerushalayim, and a deep connection to Hashem.

Produced by renowned composer and producer Yitzy Waldner, the album features songs composed by Schron together with Waldner. Their collaboration brings together heartfelt melodies with polished musical arrangements by a talented lineup of arrangers, including Avrumy Lunger, Shea Kaller, Yanky Steinmetz, Yehuda Galili, Yoni Eliav, Yitzy Berry, and Eli Klein, creating a sound that is both stirring and timeless.

The album’s title track, “Bayis Ne’eman,” is an upbeat and joyous dance song released in honor of Schron’s daughter’s wedding. The song features a duet with acclaimed singer Benny Friedman, whose signature vocals add that special energy to the celebration of building a faithful Jewish home.

Another standout moment on the album is “Yehei Raava,” a deeply moving niggun performed as a duet with Yitzy Waldner himself. Yitzy brings a unique warmth and depth to the song, making it one of the album’s most powerful and emotional tracks.

For Schron, Bayis Ne’eman is more than just an album—it is a labor of love and a reflection of the power of Jewish music to inspire and uplift.

“The koach haneginah is a special gift that Hakadosh Baruch Hu gave us to bring us closer to Him,” Schron explains. “A good song can be listened to over and over again, inspiring us each time. That’s what makes music so unique.”

Each song on the album was written during moments of personal inspiration and spiritual reflection, ultimately forming a collection that encourages listeners to connect more deeply with Hashem and the values that matter most.

Bayis Ne’eman is now available on all streaming platforms and wherever Jewish music is sold.

https://t.ly/BayisNeeman/tls

You may have noticed stacks of purple plastic pipe along Bennetts Mills Road.

Mayor Kuhn: This pipe is for a Jackson Township Municipal Utilities Authority (JTMUA) project to carry raw (untreated) well water from Bennetts Mills Road to the JTMUA treatment plant on London Drive.

Phase 1 of the project will install the main from the vicinity of #254 Bennetts Mills Road to Georgian Boulevard. This work is being done before Ocean County repaves Bennetts Mills Road (Route 527 to Cooks Bridge Road), planned for later in 2026. A future Phase 2 will extend the main along Georgian Boulevard and connect it to the treatment plant on London Drive; JTMUA has not yet set a schedule for that phase.

Phase 1 is scheduled to start around April 6, 2026, and should take about 40 calendar days. Most work will occur on weekdays during normal business hours. Alternating traffic will be maintained while work is underway. Near the intersection of Butterfly Road / Frank Applegate Road, nighttime work may occur to permit a more substantial closure of the roadway to avoid utility conflicts.

If you have questions, contact the Jackson Township Engineer’s office at (732) 928-1200, ext. 1229, or the Jackson Township MUA at (732) 928-2222

As first reported on TLS Communities, the NJ Forest Fire Service is on scene of a brush fire in the area of mile marker 25 on Route 195 in Jackson.

Westbound lanes are closed from Mile Marker 25 to Mile Marker 20.

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In a matter of seconds, homes turned to rubble. Families were left with nothing — just days before Pesach.

Standing amid scenes of mass devastation, Prime Minister Binyamin Netanyahu described the aftermath of the Iranian missile strike in Arad in stark terms: “It was a very difficult night for the State of Israel.”

His remarks came on Sunday afternoon, March 22, just hours after the Motzei Shabbos attack, in what officials described as one of the largest and most destructive missile barrages since the outbreak of the Iran war. The strikes hit residential areas with terrifying force, leaving widespread destruction and hundreds of casualties.

Rescue teams worked through the night — pulling victims from the rubble, treating the injured, and searching desperately for anyone still trapped beneath collapsed structures. Entire buildings were reduced to ruins. Families fled in panic, many escaping with nothing but the clothes they were wearing. Streets that had been alive only hours earlier were transformed into scenes of chaos and heartbreak.

In Arad, dozens of apartments were torn open. Possessions were buried beneath debris. Lives were irrevocably altered in a single moment.

.

PM Netanyahu at the site of the missile strike in Arad. GPO/Avi Ohayon

But beyond the headlines and casualty figures lies a deeper, more painful reality.

170 families are now homeless.

Families who lost everything in an instant — no homes, no belongings, no sense of normalcy.

And Pesach is almost upon us.

Pesach. The Yom Tov of dignity. The Yom Tov of family. The night when every Yid is meant to sit like a king.

But for these families, there is no table. No kitchen. No clothing prepared. No sense of what tomorrow will even look like.

Children who should be asking the Mah Nishtanah at the Seder are instead asking where they will sleep. Fathers who should be preparing the Seder are trying to hold their families together.

And yet — Klal Yisroel did not remain silent.

With open hearts and extraordinary generosity, Yidden across the world stepped forward. With urgency and with heart, they gave. They cared. They refused to let their brothers and sisters stand alone.

Because of that, most of the families have already been helped. They have a place. They have what they need to enter Yom Tov with at least a measure of dignity.

But not all.

Forty-eight families are still waiting.

Forty-eight families with nowhere to go.
Forty-eight families watching the hours slip away.

Two days to Pesach.

Two days until the night when Klal Yisroel sits together and declares, “Now we are free.”

This is the final moment. The last chance.

In two days, it will be too late.

Help the remaining 48 families bring in Pesach, like true Bnei Chorin.

Round-the-clock Pesach preparations are underway in the Lev Rochel Bikur Cholim kitchen, as thousands of meals are being prepared for patients at home and in hospitals.

Help them help thousands: https://www.lrbcol.org/pesach or by calling 855.905.3020. Tax Id 223251871.

The following is an ‘Ask The Mayor’ question submitted to TLS, and the Mayor’s response. Email your questions for the Mayor to [email protected].

Question:

Thank you for your service to our town.

I would like to bring something to your attention and to see if you can address the following issue.

Often after the garbage personnel do their pickup, the cans are dropped down haphazardly on the streets, sometimes blocking the street and often causing damage to the cans, specifically to the wheels. It is exceedingly difficult to bring a can down to the street with a broken wheel while waiting a few weeks to get the can repaired. With a little more attention to the way it is done, a more professional outcome for this taxpayer funded service can be achieved.

Thank you for your assistance.

Response from Mayor Coles:

Good morning. Thanks. I will discuss this with public works. I know our drivers do their best to keep things clear and safe Also know that the cans we have to buy today aren’t as stuffy as those we have had in the past.

Take care

Ray

—————–

Have a question for the Mayor? Send it to [email protected]

Have a question for the Chief? Send it to [email protected]

Enhancements aimed at improving traffic flow along Pine Street are now underway following the allocation of a 2026 Department of Transportation grant.

Officials tell TLS the upgrades are designed to address congestion along the busy corridor, which is heavily traveled by commuters heading to and from the Cedarbridge Corporate Park.

Work currently in progress includes the addition of enhanced turning lanes into the corporate park, along with extended stacking lanes to better accommodate turning vehicles. A dedicated turn lane onto Washington Street is also being constructed as part of the project.

The improvements are expected to ease traffic backups and improve overall safety for motorists traveling through the area.

We still need to raise crucial funds to reach our goal of $450,000 – the sum needed to cover the bare minimum these families need to make Pesach

Today is a busy day, so we’re going to make this quick.

Besiyata Dishmaya, we’ve already raised $344,646 funding the Yom Tov expenses of hundreds of families in Yerushlayim.

Now, just 48 hours before Bedikas Chametz we are still short $100,000!

The families of Zichron Moshe are relying on us – and we can’t let them down.

Two minutes of your time, to click and donate, would make all the difference in the world to these families.

Click here to donate now.

Tizku L’Mitzvos and a chag kasher v’sameach,
Kupas Zichron Moshe

Hundreds of families who travel abroad and go door-to-door each year… can’t go this time.

In past years, many of the needy in the Zichron Moshe neighborhood in Yerushalayim travel abroad and raise the necessary funds to be able to make Yom Tov in addition to many that visit Yershshalyim for Purim and Pesach.

This year, everything has changed.

This year, due to the war, travel is extremely difficult. Many families are unable to leave, and those who can are unsure if they will be able to return in time for Yom Tov.

Kupas Zichron Moshe was established by Rav Aaron Nimersovsky to assist the needy families in Shchunas Zichron Moshe in Yerushalaym, including almanos, yesomim, and those that are in crisis.

Unfortunately, the numbers have been growing over the last few years, with over 800 families on the list for this year.

This year more than ever, the aniyim are relying on the Kuppah.

Started twelve years ago, Kupas Zichron Moshe has become a respected organization that has grown past natural bounds. Run under the asupices of Rav Gamliel Rabinovich, Rav Moshe Elyashiv and Rav Yitzchok Soloveitchik, Kupas Zichron Moshe has continued to provide for the Yom tov needs for over 700 choshuve families in Zichron Moshe/Geula Yerushalayim who cannot live on their own means.

These are not families that are looking to buy luxuries. These are families that would literally not have fish and chicken on Shabbos and Yom Tov without y(our) help.

This year we are having a much harder time than usual. 700 families are relying on us and we cannot do it without your help!

ICYMI, the Annual I-80 BBQ is back for its 11th year.

The pre-Pesach barbecue has in past years served thousands traveling for Yom Tov.

This year, the barbecue will be held on Tuesday, March 31st right off Exit 173 on Interstate 80 in Lamar, PA, at the FLYING J between 1-9 pm. The exact address is 5609 Nittany Valley Dr, Mill Hall, PA 17751. No reservations are needed.

There will also be continuous Minyanim for Mincha.

(The BBQ is free of charge, although donations are encouraged. All contributions will benefit Amudim, helping individuals overcoming abuse, addiction and mental illness.)

For any questions, call or message Chaim Ozer Dessler at 216-644-4704.

You can download and print it here.

Erev Pesach when its Erev Yom Tov 33

To join via Zoom:

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Dear Shver, I know you’re a very friendly person and enjoy staying in shul to schmooze after davening. But I beg you, can Leil Seder please be different?

Why do you come home 30 minutes after Maariv, then start looking for your wine and take your time deciding which bottle to use? Then there’s another 10 minutes figuring out the seating and where the pillows are. After that, you send one of the boys to retrieve your matzah from the basement…

Precious Shver, it’s usually close to an hour before we actually begin Kiddush. The kids have prepared for weeks for this special night, and as it clearly says in halacha, one should start the Seder immediately after shul so the children don’t get sleepy and we can properly fulfill the mitzvah of telling the story of the Exodus.

Every year, you start panicking when you see we’re getting close to chatzos. How about following the earlier halacha in Shulchan Aruch, which states that the table should be fully set before Yom Tov so the family can begin the Seder without delay?

Hoping for a more pleasant Seder this year,

Your eidem

TLS welcomes your letters by submitting them to us via  Whatsapp  or via email  [email protected]

Naugatuck, CT was the scene of an incredibly memorable event on the recent Shabbos Parshas Hachodesh. The Rabbeim and talmidim of Mesivta Yesodei HaTorah, as well as multiple guests from Yeshivas Ohr Hachaim in Queens, along with the Rosh HaYeshiva HaRav Doniel Lander Shlita, were zoche to experience an unforgettable Shabbos together with Rav Shimon Galai, shlita, who graced the Yeshiva with his presence in what has become a much anticipated annual event.

It is difficult to describe the ruchniyus and spiritual energy that encompassed the entire Shabbos. The opportunity to observe Rav Galai’s intense kavana during davening, his warm interaction with all those  seeking his advice and berachos, his demonstrable ahava for every Yid, and the vitality and hislahavus he displayed during zemiros and dancing were beyond uplifting. 

During a Friday night oneg and a stirring drasha during shalosh seudos, Rav Galai focused on the themes of living together with Hakadosh Baruch Hu and appreciating His undeniable hashgacha in our lives.  The Rav exhorted the oilam to rise up to life’s challenges by declaring “Hineini!”.  His divrei hisorerus and personal anecdotes mesmerized and penetrated the neshamos of all who were present.

Motzei Shabbos culminated with a joyous Melave Malka which welcomed Rabbonim, talmidims’ parents, and friends of the Mesivta from the nearby Waterbury community. Following a siyum by the bochurim on maseches Bava Metzia, Rav Galai led the large crowd in exuberant dancing likavod Hatorah. One could not help but be awestruck watching the venerable Rav jump and sing with all his might, urging on the bochurim to ever greater heights of simcha. The huge crowd was then held spellbound as Rav Galai spoke, alternatively challenging their minds with incisive insights and warming their hearts with divrei chizzuk and rousing niggunim.

Throughout his stay, Rav Galai displayed his characteristic anivus, thanking the hanhala for a Shabbos spent in the company of true bnei Torah, whose singular focus is aliyah in avodas Hashem. The Rav also appreciated the opportunity  to be able to recuperate from his arduous journey in the adjacent serene  Maple Spring Estates neighborhood and pristine environment of the Yeshiva campus. 

Of course, however,  the true privilege and hakaras hatov belong to us at Mesivta Yesodei HaTorah, who had the invaluable zechus of hosting Rav Galai for this truly transformative and inspirational Shabbos.

A multi-vehicle accident in Lakewood this afternoon was caught on surveillance video.

The accident happened approximately 4:25 PM at the intersection of New Hampshire and Oberlin.

It appears the southbound driver blew through a red light, causing the multi vehicle crash.

No serious injuries were reported.

(Via TLS Communities)

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Yenny/El Ateneo, Argentina’s oldest and largest bookstore chain, publishes weekly charts of the top 10 bestselling books in their retail stores across the country. The Spanish edition of Letters for Life, a new book on the Lubavitcher Rebbe’s Torah-based advice for emotional wellbeing, surprised the country’s publishing wizards and emerged as #5 on the list. As a result, the book is now being sold in airports and malls across Argentina.

The book’s popularity follows the increased interest in the Lubavitcher Rebbe caused by Argentina’s philo-Semite president Javier Milei. Milei has visited the Lubavitcher Rebbe’s Ohel several times on his trips to New York and speaks of the impact the Lubavitcher Rebbe’s teachings have had on his life.

Seeing the book’s international success, BBC journalist Talat-Farooq Awan contacted the author Levi Shmotkin, to discuss the reasons for the book’s wide appeal. The interview played on the BBC’s nationally syndicated Sunday morning radio program.

Prompted by Awan, Shmotkin opened up about how the book came about: 
 
“I was a regular teenager, studying and trying to focus on my academic roles, but my inner world was distracting me. I’d be sitting there with my textbooks, but my brain and my heart weren’t there.” 

“I found myself gravitating toward the Lubavitcher Rebbe’s letters. He was a great Jewish sage who counseled thousands of people through personal correspondence about their emotional and mental lives. As I read letter after letter, the guidance rooted in Jewish wisdom felt like it was coming off the page and speaking directly to me.” 

The conversation continued with questions from Awan:

“The Rebbe’s guidance came decades before today’s widespread mental health awareness. What makes his wisdom so relevant for the modern world and the modern Jewish community?” 

In response, Shmotkin explained that “Its relevance comes precisely from where it differs from popular culture. While there’s a strong focus today on emotional health, The Rebbe consistently emphasized that true emotional wellbeing requires expanding beyond self-absorption and self-obsession.”

Alongside its reach in the secular world, the book has found resonance in the orthodox Jewish community through prominent voices including Rabbi Dr. Dovid Fox, Director of Trauma Response for Chai Lifeline and dayan on the Rabbinical Courts of Jerusalem. Rabbi Dr. Fox shared that “Letters for Life is an extremely well-researched compendium of profound insights and clear guidance. It allows the reader to be immersed in the perceptive wisdom of Toras HaNefesh through the lens of Chabad Chassidus. The volume includes much pure, pragmatic instruction for improving one’s personal and interpersonal functioning, as well as boosting one’s Avodas HaShem. I found Letters for Life inspiring and illuminating.”

Similarly, Rabbi Dr. Tzvi Hirsch Weinreb, Executive Vice President Emeritus of the Orthodox Union, Editor-in-Chief of the Koren Talmud Bavli  and renowned expert in psychology, shared the following: “We live in troubled times, and we all feel the need for guidance in many aspects of our daily lives. To whom can we turn for guidance—wise guidance, practical guidance, effective guidance? Letters for Life enables us to consult an immensely valuable source of the guidance we seek. He presents us with the sage advice and helpful encouragement of someone who understood the modern world and had phenomenal insight into the soul and psyche of humanity.”

The full BBC interview can be listened to here

ICYMI – via TLS Communities

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The event will be taking place on Sunday Chol Hamoed.

My son came home from school on Thursday and shared how impressed he was with his teacher. During class, several students mentioned they were hungry, and the teacher took the initiative to go to the lunchroom and bring back food for them.

This teacher recognized something important. Leading up to Pesach, many children are coming to school with fewer snacks than usual, as their homes are cleaned for Pesach – but not yet stocked for Yom Tov either.

It’s something for all rebbeim and teachers to keep in mind. The hunger can also affect kids’ behavior, making them more irritable or less focused during class.

And to the teacher who stepped in so thoughtfully, Tizku L’mitzvos!

Sincerely,
A grateful mother

TLS welcomes your letters by submitting them to us via  Whatsapp  or via email  [email protected]

A woman who was unable to locate her purse on Friday later discovered it had been mistakenly thrown out.

Fortunately, the purse contained a tracker, allowing it to be tracked. Volunteers from Chaveirim of Central Jersey responded and followed the signal to a local dumpster.

The members sifted through the trash and successfully located the missing purse.

The van will be used to stock items intended for community and special events.

A Howell Township man who broke into a Jackson residence and opened fire while multiple adults and children were inside has been sentenced to state prison, authorities said.

Ocean County Prosecutor Bradley D. Billhimer announced that Gardin A. Guevara-Umanzor, 47, was sentenced to seven years in New Jersey State Prison for burglary in connection with the October 13, 2024 incident. The sentence, imposed by Judge Kenneth T. Palmer, is subject to the No Early Release Act, requiring him to serve at least 85 percent before becoming eligible for parole.

Guevara-Umanzor also received concurrent sentences of five years for unlawful possession of a weapon, with a 42-month parole disqualifier, 18 months for aggravated assault, and four years on each of two counts of endangering the welfare of a child. He was convicted on all charges following a four-week jury trial that concluded on January 29, 2026.

According to authorities, officers from the Jackson Township Police Department responded to a home on New Prospect Road at approximately 1:20 a.m. after a 911 call reported that Guevara-Umanzor had entered the residence and began firing a handgun. Multiple adults and two children were inside at the time.

Investigators determined that Guevara-Umanzor fired five shots into the home. During the incident, one occupant attempted to disarm him, resulting in a struggle on the ground as the weapon continued to be discharged. Other occupants also intervened before the suspect released the firearm and fled.

The weapon was recovered at the scene, and Guevara-Umanzor was located and apprehended at a neighboring residence without incident. He has remained lodged in the Ocean County Jail since his arrest.

The investigation was conducted by the Jackson Township Police Department Detective Bureau, New Jersey State Police, and the Ocean County Sheriff’s Office Crime Scene Investigation Unit.

Billhimer credited Senior Assistant Prosecutor Victoria Veni and Assistant Prosecutor Emma Hurst, along with multiple law enforcement agencies, for their work on the case.

As Pesach approaches, TLS is once again providing you with all important Pesach information for Lakewood and surrounding towns to make your Pre-Pesach rush more manageable, organized and easily-accessible. This page will remain pinned towards the top of the page until Pesach.

See important Pesach information below, which will be updated as we get closer to Pesach.

Lakewood Township Adds Additional Trash Pickup Next Week for Pesach

Lakewood DPW Resident Pickup and Drop-off Information for the Spring and Pesach season

Chometz Burning Information for Lakewood 

Chometz Burning Information for Howell

Chometz Burning Information for Jackson

Chometz Burning and Trash Pickup Information for Toms River 

Don’t Forget To Place Hold On Your Chometz Amazon Subscriptions

Put Your Mail On Hold When Leaving for Pesach

Halachos of Pesach | Chezky Green

Pesach Simplified | Rabbi Shlomo Haberfeld

Pesach Seder Primer

CHOMETZ LIST (1)

UPDATE: TLS received this letter from Hagaon Rav Chaim Peretz Berman Shlita in support of those helping with Pesach funds for the Steipler and Reb Chaim ZT”L’s children and grandchildren (see below).

As of today, Friday, Erev Shabbos Hagadol, approximately 65 families still do not have BASICS for Pesach. $500 will support an entire family for Yom Tov!

UPDATE: One of the final letters Rebbetzin Kanievsky A”H wrote – in support of those helping with funds for the Steipler and Reb Chaim ZT”L’s children and grandchildren – giving a very strong Bracha to all who assist (see below).

When the Rebbetzin was alive, she would personally collect for these families, and Rav Chaim ZT”L himself would distribute the funds.

UPDATE: TLS has spoken with the family of the Reb Chaim ZT”L, who thanked all those who assisted thus far, and stated there are still over 100 families who need basics for Pesach.

The family also stated that when the Rebbetzin was alive, she would personally collect for these families, and Rav Chaim ZT”L himself would distribute the funds.

ALL donations are going directly to the families.

Original information: 

With Pesach approaching, a renewed campaign is underway to provide critical financial assistance to hundreds of families connected to the legacy of Rabbi Yaakov Yisrael Kanievsky ZT”L and Rabbi Chaim Kanievsky ZT”L.

Organizers say they have the ongoing responsibility and privilege of supporting nearly 500 families who live with extreme financial restraint throughout the year. As Yom Tov expenses mount, the need becomes significantly more pressing, with basic necessities often out of reach.

To help alleviate this burden, the initiative distributes approximately $500 per family ahead of Pesach, an amount described as making a substantial difference in allowing recipients to prepare for Pesach with dignity.

Contributions can be made through several methods:

Donor Fund: 113498666

Checks:
Congregation Kehilas Yaakov
c/o Rabbi Shimon Grama
2 Omni Court
Lakewood, NJ 08701

Credit Card:
secure.cardknox.com/congregationkehilasyaakov
PhonePay (no fee): 833-434-3354 (PIN: 021121)

Zelle: 347-678-1509

Tizku L’mitzvos.

A juvenile suspect has been arrested and charged in connection with the shooting that left a 17-year-old male with a gunshot wound to the face at the Ocean County Mall in Toms River.

According to Bradley D. Billhimer, the charges stem from the incident that occurred at approximately 8:10 p.m., when officers from the Toms River Township Police Department responded to the mall on Hooper Avenue for a report of a shooting. Upon arrival, officers located the victim suffering from a single gunshot wound to the face. He was transported to Jersey Shore University Medical Center, where he is listed in stable condition.

An investigation conducted by the Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office Major Crime Unit, alongside the Toms River Township Police Department and the Ocean County Sheriff’s Office Crime Scene Investigation Unit, revealed that the victim was seated in a common area of the mall when he was approached by an individual attempting to initiate an altercation. As the suspect began to walk away, he turned and fired multiple shots in the victim’s direction, striking him once in the face before fleeing the scene.

Authorities later identified a juvenile as the suspect. The individual has since been taken into custody and is currently being held at the Ocean County Juvenile Detention Center.

Due to state law, officials have not released additional details regarding the juvenile’s identity.

“This was a senseless act of violence that has no place in our civilized society. This behavior will not be tolerated here in Ocean County,” Billhimer said, commending the coordinated efforts of all agencies involved in bringing the investigation to a swift resolution.

The U.S. Treasury Department announced today that President Donald Trump’s signature will be added to all new U.S. paper currency.

The move marks the first time a sitting president’s name will appear on paper bills. Traditionally, U.S. currency carries the signatures of the Treasury secretary and the treasurer — not the president.

The Treasury said the change is being made in honor of the 250th anniversary of the United States. Trump’s signature will appear alongside that of Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent.

The first $100 bills bearing Trump’s signature and Bessent’s are expected to be printed in June, with other denominations to follow in subsequent months. The Bureau of Engraving and Printing is responsible for producing all U.S. paper currency.

The addition of Trump’s signature also means removing the Treasurer of the United States’ signature from bills for the first time in 165 years.

Bessent called the move an appropriate recognition of the nation’s milestone anniversary. Treasurer Brandon Beach said Trump’s impact on the country’s economy made the decision fitting.

The plans also come alongside an ongoing effort to place Trump’s image on a commemorative coin. A federal arts commission earlier this month approved a final design for a 24-karat gold commemorative coin bearing Trump’s likeness to mark America’s 250th birthday on July 4.

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Authorities are investigating after a body was found in a park in Toms River, sources told TLS.

The age of the person was not immediately available, but sources said the body was located following a brief search.

UPDATE: Sources tell TLS the body is that of a 24-year-old male.

Based on preliminary information obtained by TLS, there is no danger to the public.

Developing story.

You can download the list here and the Kuntris here.

CHOMETZ LIST (1)

Pesach simlified

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During a Shiur today, Rabbi Rotberg discussed this and other interesting Shailos pertaining to Pesach.

While the Greek kingdoms were battling each other, Rome was looming larger and larger in the west. Rome first appeared on the stage of world history in the sixth century before the common era. It began as a small city-state spread across seven hills on the banks of the Tiber River on the Mediterranean coast of central Italy. The powerful and sophisticated Etruscan kingdom stood to the north in modern-day Tuscany. The Greek colonies of Magna Graecia (Greater Greece) straddled southern Italy and the island of Sicily.

In its early history, Rome was governed by a dynasty of Etruscan kings, but the people were not Etruscan. At the end of the sixth century, the Romans expelled their Etruscan king and established a republic ruled by the aristocratic Senate and the democratic Assemblies. Fifteen years later, feeling newly invigorated and powerful, they went to war with the Latin tribes and defeated them. Rome emerged as the dominant power of the Latin League.

In 390 b.c.e., the Latins revolted. Rome spent the next half century crushing one Latin tribe after the other. In 338 b.c.e., they completed their suppression of the rebellion. The Romans now turned their attention to the Greek colonies in the south of the peninsula. In 272 b.c.e., they captured Tarentum, and the entire peninsula was in their hands. Except for the island of Sicily. Eastern Sicily was essentially the Greek colony of Syracuse. Western Sicily belonged to Carthage, a city in North Africa that had a vast maritime empire in the western Mediterranean basin, with outposts in present-day France, Spain and the African coast.

Carthage had a powerful navy. Rome had a powerful army. Both sought to dominate the western Mediterranean. War was inevitable. In 264 b.c.e., the First Punic (Phoenician) War broke out. Rome built a navy to defend against the Carthaginian fleet and invaded Sicily. After years of fighting, Carthage was defeated. Sicily became part of Rome, and Carthage paid heavy reparations.

In 218 b.c.e., the Second Punic War broke out. Hannibal, the famous Carthaginian general, took an army with war elephants through Spain. He crossed the Alps, invaded Italy from the north and rampaged through the country for fourteen years. Meanwhile, in 204 b.c.e., the Romans invaded Carthage, and Hannibal was recalled to defend the homeland. In 202 b.c.e., the Romans general Scipio Africanus Major defeated Hannibal at the Battle of Zama. In the ensuing peace treaty, Rome stripped away all Carthage’s colonial territories and limited its military.

Rome emerged from the Punic Wars as the fastest rising power in the Imperial Quadrant. Even as Antiochus and Ptolemy fought over Judea, Rome turned its eyes eastward to the vast world of the Greeks. In 200 b.c.e., Rome invaded Macedonia. Four years later, the war was over. Rome forced the Macedonian king to give up his fleet and pay huge reparations. The Romans also declared the Greek states free of Macedonian rule and established a protectorate over them. Rome had arrived on the world stage.

Antiochus III finally realized that the Romans posed a grave threat to the Seleucid empire. In 192 b.c.e., he led a large Seleucid army into Greece to liberate the Greek states from Roman rule. His army, however, was no match for the Roman legions. In 188 b.c.e., the Romans overwhelmed the Seleucids at the Battle of Magnesia. Antiochus was forced to give up almost all his territory in Asia Minor and pay a staggering war indemnity.

In 168 b.c.e., the Romans crushed a Macedonian revolt. They broke up Macedonia into four republics that eventually became Roman provinces.

In that same year, Antiochus IV, the son of Antiochus III, invaded Egypt and defeated Ptolemy. His army stood at the gates of Alexandria. If he could capture the city, he would merge the Seleucid and Ptolemaic kingdoms and have the wealth and the power to face Rome. The fall of the city seemed inevitable. In desperation, Ptolemy appealed to the Roman Senate to come to his aid and prevent the unification of Egypt and Syria.

The Senate sent a delegation to Alexandria headed by Gaius Popillius Laenas, a Roman general. They met Antiochus in a suburb of the city. Antiochus extended his hand in greeting, but Popillius just thrust a letter from the Senate into it. It was a decree ordering Antiochus to leave Egypt immediately. The king said he would discuss it with his advisors before responding.

Popillius took a stick and drew a circle in the sand around Antiochus. “Before you step out of this circle,” he said, “you must give me an answer to deliver to the Senate.” This was the famous “line in the sand.”

Antiochus was stunned. Rome had just won a major battle with Macedonia. If he stepped out of the circle without giving an answer, it meant war with Rome. The prospect was frightening. Antiochus capitulated. He took his armies and returned to Syria …