- Wall Street Journal: Senior officials in the Trump administration, including Vice President Vance and Secretary of State Rubio, warned the President that a war with Iran could last until the end of his term

- Trump on the war with Iran: “The war's gonna end immediately after the election. Because they can't hold out any longer. They're desperate to try and affect the election so that we can get a nice weak group of people in there and leave them alone and let them have their nuclear weapon. All they want is a nuclear weapon. And if they had a nuclear weapon, the whole world is in deep trouble."

- Trump on the sanctions from the UK on Israel: “I'll be speaking to Israel, I'll be speaking to them, and I'll find out what they're thinking…I understand what's going on. But I want to find out why all of a sudden has that happened

- IDF: Following the sirens that sounded a short while ago regarding a hostile aircraft infiltration in several areas in northern Israel, it qwas determined to be a false identification.

Satellite imagery shows a construction surge at Iran's deeply buried Pickaxe Mountain site near Natanz, a possible future enrichment or nuclear safe-haven facility.

Weather: 86F Mainly sunny to start, then a few afternoon clouds.

- President Trump makes a major promise at the Republican midterm convention in Dallas: $5,000 for every adult U.S. citizen if Republicans win both the House and Senate in the midterms.“I will issue a dividend to every adult citizen in the United States of America for $5,000.”

- Karoline Leavitt just revealed that President Trump is getting ready to drop MAJOR NEWS during his speech at the RNC Midterm convention. "You’ll hear news from the president tonight. He’s gonna announce some new blockbuster policies for the Republican Party in the next two years

- Israel media report Rav Shalom Ber Sorotzkin, rosh yeshiva of Ateres Shlomo, is expected to spend Rosh Hashanah this year in Uman, Ukraine, after a major American donor pledged a multimillion-dollar contribution to the Ateres Shlomo institutions on condition that the rosh yeshiva spend the Yom Tov with him there.

- Belzer rebbe has returned home and was taking kvitlach tonight from chasidim at his home.

-  Trump on the sanctions from the UK on Israel: “I'll be speaking to Israel, I'll be speaking to them, and I'll find out what they're thinking...I understand what's going on. But I want to find out why all of a sudden has that happened

- Lakewood officials finally question hazardous busing disparity After years of ignoring the issue, local elected officials spoke out at tonight’s Lakewood BOE meeting about thousands of yeshiva students who live along hazardous routes and have been paying for LSTA busing.

The question raised was straightforward: If hazardous-route transportation is being provided to non-mandated public-school students, why isn’t the same transportation available to non-mandated private-school students?

Under New Jersey law, officials questioned whether the district can provide hazardous transportation to one group of non-mandated students while denying it to another based on whether they attend public or non-public schools.  The NJ statute says that if they don't provide courtesy busing to public school they can't provide hazardous busing to non public. Yet there was some conflicting interpretation between the  state monitor and school attorney.

The school district attorney acknowledged that the regulations and district policies are complicated and called for a committee to review and clarify the rules.

Officials also asked the Township to update the list of hazardous roads which could directly affect which students qualify for transportation.

-Today the Lakewood Board of Education will have a special meeting on hazardous bus transportation. The agenda includes a resolution authorizing up to $14.88 million for the Lakewood Student Transportation Authority (LSTA) to provide hazardous route  transportation for eligible nonpublic-school students. The funding is based on up to 12,642 students at a maximum of $1,177 per student, with the final amount subject to verification. Meeting  at School Commons 855 Somerset Avenue Lakewood, NJ 08701 watch live Here

- Shiva for rebbetzin Sarah Bressler AH is at 218 St. Nicholas Lakewood getting up Friday. The R"Y Rav Chaim Bressler shlita and daughter Mrs. Pritzker will be leaving to Scranton Thursday night for rest of shiva.

- BDE: Petirah of R 'Shimon Simchowitz Z"L who took ill many years ago and was living in EY..evaya was last night in EY.  Family is sitting shiva in Lakewood at 1884 New Central Ave. Mincha 7pm,Maariv 10:30 pm.

- Shiur hachana for the yomim noraim tonight with Rav Avrohom Schorr shlita at B:M Chasam Sofer  890 Manetta in Ridge area  10:00 pm

- Shiur Hachana for yomim Noraim Talmidei NOvominsk by the Admor shlita at B"M Ohr Tuvia  969 East End 8:30 pm.

- Uman Rosh Hashana the border  between Ukraine and Moldova has been closed due to security reasons as Russian missiles have landed in the area 

- A new state law restricting cellphones in New Jersey classrooms is now in effect.But there are still questions about how the new “bell-to-ball” ban will be enforced and what impact it will have on the state’s schools.

- The emergency inflatable slide deployed on the new Qatar-gifted Air Force One while President Trump sat in Marine One. It looks like the working plan may be to fly him to Dallas on the older Air Force One instead for the pre midterms convention. This comes as it's reported the new Air Force One is not as safe as the legacy plane

- The L bus shuttle in Lakewood will begin charging soon as the township faces budget crisis

- Ahead of Rosh Hashana Lakewoods Judaica Plaza  launches the shredder podcast featuring R'Shalom Rosenberg veteran Baal Tokeah and mechaber seger on Shofros What Most People Don’t Know About Shofar watch HERE 

- New Jersey residents receiving Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program benefits will see higher maximum monthly benefit levels beginning October 1, as new federal cost-of-living adjustments take effect. The U.S. Department of Agriculture recently released its SNAP benefit levels for the 2027 federal fiscal year. The annual adjustment increases the maximum allotment available to households in New Jersey and the other 47 contiguous states, as well as Washington, D.C. Under the new amounts, the maximum monthly SNAP allotment for a one-person household will increase from $298 to $306, while the maximum for a family of four will rise from $994 to $1,023.

- Concerns in Yerushalayim from UK sanctions

The UK is advancing a trade ban on goods from the West Bank, and in Jerusalem there are concerns that the move could spill over to Israeli companies throughout the country. Winery owners in the area report European customers who fear arrest as a result of purchasing wine. They warn of the consequences and make it clear: anyone who thinks this will stop with us is simply naïve.

- Hersheypark has officially concluded its 120th summer season and confirmed the permanent retirement of Tidal Force. The 32-year-old water ride, known for its 100-foot drops and 50mph speeds, took its final voyage on September 7, 2026. While the park reopens for its fall schedule on September 12, the splash zone will remain empty.

- Tax Dollars: Lakewood Fire Department Expands Career Ranks as Township Growth Drives New Demands: Lakewood's growing career fire service now has 48 firefighters 

- President Trump insisting gas prices will fall below $2 a gallon after the midterms, saying current high prices are the cost of keeping Iran from obtaining a nuclear weapon."Right after the election, oil prices are going to be tumbling downward. They're going to be tumbling down, and we'll get them down, I think for gasoline, we'll get them below $2 a gallon.

- Faanews  a 45 page court brief was filed defending Lakewood zoning board denial of duplex in Chestnut area. More

 - Trump reposts "Deport every single 3rd world migrant, illegal alien and America hating Visa holder...""...or surrender your nation the way the UK have, and watch your society collapse in the coming years.

Yiddish media newspapers  coverage of the historic visit of Admorim  at the White house with president Trump

Agudah & Torah Umesorah Endorse National Scholarship Fund to Maximize New Federal Tax Credit for Yeshivos

The Opportunity Fund for Jewish Education 

Agudath Israel of America and Torah Umesorah recently announced that they are jointly endorsing the Opportunity Fund for Jewish Education, a national Scholarship Granting Organization backed by the Orthodox Union and Teach Coalition, Jewish Federations of North America, and Prizmah.

The organizations said they spent months studying how the Orthodox Jewish community could maximize the benefit of the new tax credit, including extensive deliberations by the Moetzes Gedolei HaTorah and the Vaad Roshei Hayeshivos.

Their conclusion was that the community would be better served by working through a single national SGO with the scale and infrastructure to attract the maximum amount of funding.

The Opportunity Fund says donors will be able to designate participating yeshivos and schools to benefit from their contributions. It also says that 100% of every dollar designated to a school will go toward scholarships, with administrative and operating expenses funded separately.

The New York and New Jersey Problem

While the federal law is scheduled to begin January 1, 2027, participation is not automatic.

The IRS's most recent official list shows that 30 states have made advance elections to participate for 2027. New Jersey is not on the list. New York is also not on the official participating-state list.

New York Gov. Kathy Hochul, however, has indicated that she intends to opt New York into the program, saying her administration supports the potential benefits but is awaiting additional information from the federal government.

Official Agudah and TU announcement:

Dear Yeshiva Leaders and Members of Our Communities, 

The new Federal Scholarship Tax Credit represents an unprecedented opportunity to bring significant new resources to our yeshivos and to ease the tuition burden on families across the country. 

Over the past several months, Agudath Israel of America and Torah Umesorah have carefully studied how our community can best take advantage of this opportunity. 

These discussions included extensive deliberations by the Moetzes Gedolei HaTorah and the Vaad Roshei Hayeshivos, with one overriding question in mind: What approach will maximize the benefit of this tax credit for our yeshivos, our families, and the future of chinuch?

 The conclusion was that the strongest course is to work through a single Scholarship Granting Organization with the scale, reach, and infrastructure necessary to bring the greatest possible number of dollars to our mosdos. 

Accordingly, Agudath Israel of America and Torah Umesorah are proud to endorse the Opportunity Fund for Jewish Education, a new national Scholarship Granting Organization launched by the Orthodox Union and Teach Coalition, Jewish Federations of North America, and Prizmah.

 The Opportunity Fund for Jewish Education www.jewishopportunity.org 

The Opportunity Fund pairs national strength with local connection. Its reach can open participation across the country, while its structure allows communities, parents, alumni, and supporters to stand behind the schools and yeshivos they know and care about.

 What This Means for Our Families and Yeshivos 

Beginning January 1, 2027, eligible taxpayers can contribute to the Opportunity Fund for Jewish Education and receive a dollar-for-dollar federal tax credit of up to $1,700. In participating states, those contributions can fund scholarships at yeshivos, bringing meaningful tuition relief to families. 

Local dollars stay local. Contributors can designate their contributions to participating yeshivos and schools, and communities can mobilize their parents, alumni, and supporters to direct new resources to their mosdos.

 A unified platform strengthens that designation: it broadens awareness, reaches contributors our institutions could not reach on their own, and ensures that yeshivos in communities of every size can benefit. 

Importantly, 100% of every dollar designated to a school will go directly toward scholarships for its students, with none used to cover the Fund’s administrative or operating costs. The Fund’s scale and partnerships uniquely position it to raise separate philanthropic support for those costs. We believe that, b’ezras Hashem, this effort can bring meaningful new resources to our mosdos and real tuition relief to families throughout the country.

 The Path Forward For taxpayers

 You can pledge your $1,700 contribution today and be ready to contribute when the program begins in 2027. Pledge Today

 For yeshiva and school leaders Schools can register with the Opportunity Fund now to receive additional information and learn about the next steps for participation. 

Register Your School 

In the coming months, Agudath Israel and Torah Umesorah will continue working closely with our yeshivos to help them prepare to take full advantage of this historic opportunity. With continued hatzlacha in your avodas hakodesh, 

Ksiva V’Chasima Tova 

Agudath Israel of America, Torah Umesorah

 (א"ר יצחק, כל שנה שאין תוקעין לה בתחילתה, מריעין לה בסופה, מאי טעמא, דלא עירבב שטן" (ר"ה, טז ע"ב
 Any year that we do not blow the Shofar on Rosh HaShana we will have a bad year at the end (Rosh HaShanah 16b). There are opinions that the gemara refers to a regular year where there was no shofar blowing others say it is talking about  when shabbos falls out on Rosh Hashana such as this year. The Aruch Laner, (in his Minchas Ani, Parshas Haazinu) He discovered that whenever Rosh Hashanah fell on Shabbos, that year was either a terrible or a fantastic one for Klal Yisroel. Either way, it is almost never an uneventful somewhat forgettable year.

Article in the Yated  By Rabbi Yaakov Feitman -  No Shofar, No Chain, But Shabbos is Always There for Us
This year, we will not hear the sound of the shofar on the first day of Rosh Hashanah. ...It is simply that our rabbonon decreed that we may not blow the shofar on Shabbos (Rosh Hashanah 29b; Rambam, Shofar 2:6). It may seem too early to discuss this subject, but if anything, it is a bit late. As we have indicated in these columns in the past, many of our sages have taught us that everything important requires preparation. Here, too, there is a special power to a Shabbos Rosh Hashanah. Rav Yaakov Ettlinger, author of the Aruch Laner, shares with us (in his Minchas Ani, Parshas Haazinu) the results of a historical study he completed. He discovered that whenever Rosh Hashanah fell on Shabbos, that year was either a terrible or a fantastic one for Klal Yisroel. Either way, it is almost never an uneventful somewhat forgettable year.

Rav Ettlinger offers several dramatic examples of this thesis: The destructions of both Botei Mikdosh took place in such years, as did other national tragedies. In fact, the Gemara itself (Rosh Hashanah 16b) declares that “a year when the sound of the tekiah is not heard in the beginning [on Rosh Hashanah], the sound of the teruah will be heard at its end.” This refers to evil tidings in such a year
. On the other hand, he continues, the day of Yom Kippur, when we were forgiven for the sin of the Eigel, was also such a year. That year, we were also commanded to build the Mishkon, as was the year when we entered Eretz Yisroel with miracles. What is the meaning of this strange dichotomy? The Aruch Laner explains with a moshol, a complex parable, which we condense here in the interest of brevity:

An officer of the king sinned egregiously against him. None of his attorneys or advisors could budge the angry monarch. Finally, his wife tearfully stood before the king and poured out her heart. “Your majesty, my husband did indeed transgress toward you. However, it was a one-time aberration; he is truly loyal to you. Please, I beg you. Do not execute him and leave me as a widow and my children as orphans.”

The king was moved by her honesty and pain, by the thought of the innocent children, and granted clemency. A few months later, the story replayed itself with another officer, who suggested to his wife to do the same. A soon as she appeared before the king, he took note of the fact that she was covered with bruises and wounds. He ordered an investigation and discovered that it was the husband’s doing, immediately sentencing him to death. When this second defendant cried foul, the king answered him sternly. “Your wife did not speak out of her love for you. She spoke out of fear of your wrath. For that, there is no clemency.”

The Aruch Laner concluded: “Shabbos is the bride of Klal Yisroel (Bereishis Rabbah 11:8). When Rosh Hashanah falls on Shabbos, we do not blow the shofar because we are concerned that someone will desecrate Shabbos in order to learn how to blow shofar. Imagine! Because of the rather far-fetched possibility that one Jew in millions will desecrate Shabbos, we deny the multitudes all the merits, power and value of the shofar. On those years, Shabbos herself comes to the defense of Klal Yisroel and pleads our case, because we have such a mutually loving relationship with her. We care so much about her that we have given up our most powerful weapon in obtaining a good year. Hashem hears her cries and supplications and forgives us because of her. That is why a shofar-less Rosh Hashanah often brings the greatest of blessings. However, if Shabbos has been injured and abused, if Shabbos has been treated unkindly and there is no shofar to bring us forgiveness, Shabbos cannot make a winning presentation either and the year becomes a dangerous one indeed.”

Tackling Today's Challenges Q&A  at Hashkafa In The Workplace Vaad Labor Day, Beru hall Lakewood

Weather: 83° Mostly sunny 

Last day of Bingo/Mesamchei Lev Yom Tov sale

- A hafgana took place tonight in Yerushalayim, organized by the Hifkadeti organization, to protest the arrest and continued detention of an American yeshiva bochur who has been jailed for the past three months following his involvement in opposition to the Jerusalem Light Rail. Rav Velvel Soloveitchik, Rosh Yeshiva of Brisk, was on hand to show his support for the protesters. The demonstrators marched down Kikar Shabbos, making their way toward Bar Ilan Street. Police eventually called off the protest and arrested two additional bochurim.

- Trump’s proposed stay-at-home parent benefit would reportedly require recipients to be married & have one spouse working 35+ hours a week, with benefits averaging around $9,000 per child.

- United Torah Judaism Submits Knesset Candidate List: United Torah Judaism submitted its list for the next Knesset. The top 10 candidates are chairman Yaakov Asher, Yitzhak Goldknopf, Yitzhak Pindrus, Meir Porush, Moshe Rosenthal, Elyakim Stark, Yehuda Weissfish, Yaakov Tessler, David Salz and David Ochana

- Police in Lakewood, NJ responded Tuesday morning to a report of a possibly armed person near Laurel and Clover, prompting nearby school lockdowns. Officers located the individual but found no weapon. Police say there is no known threat to the public and no ongoing threat

- There's still a handful of girls not placed yet in school for primary a week into school year

- New rideshare to yeshiva. The Yeshiva Carpool is a simple ride-sharing system that helps youngeleit get to and from yeshiva. Passengers  call and enter their location, and get connected with a driver in their area who calls in to the system with his pick up locations.

- Will playgroup registration also be postponed to later in the year, following the letter issued by the  girls elementary schools stating that registration will begin Rosh chodesh Shevat? Some are wondering whether the Rabbonim will implement a similar policy for playgroups, especially since registration for two-year-olds currently begins on Isru Chag Sukkos—almost a full year before parents can know how the child will adjust and behave in a playgroup setting. Additionally, in Manchester, the Rabbonim have capped the monthly fees, following a tremendous increase in playgroup prices over the past few years.

- NJ Gov. Mikie Sherrill said Tuesday that any credible report of inappropriate behavior or misconduct involving members of her administration must be “fully examined and addressed,” but did not directly address an internal investigation into her lieutenant governor, Dale Caldwell. “Public service is an honor,” Sherrill said in a statement. “And I have spent a lifetime of service in the Navy, as a prosecutor, in Congress, and now as Governor.”“I demand that everyone in my administration hold themselves to the highest standards and put their obligations to public service first,” she said.

- ICE activity in Lakewood today

- Rav David Yosef sefardi chief Rabbi paid a visit to the Skver rebbe yesterday while he's in the US ahead of Yomim Noraim.

The former yeshiva chofetz Chaim building in Radin was bought back and a chanukas Habyis is planned after Sukkos with a kollel expected to open there.

- British Foreign Secretary Ed Miliband on Tuesday announced an import ban on goods from illegal settlements in the West Bank, as well as sanctions against specific individuals and businesses that provide services such as construction, instruction, financing or real estate for settlement expansion. The announcement was carried out in coordination with France and Canada.

- Israel announced counter sanctions on Britain: The closure of the British consulate in East Jerusalem, which has been operating since the 19th century, and the expulsion of British representatives from the headquarters in Kiryat Gat that handles Gaza.

- Internal turmoil within Degel HaTorah party. The chatter of Rav Moshe Hillel Hirsch shlita denies that the RY saw pr approved the letter in the Yated Neeman or supported the ouster of MK Gafni and Maklev.

 Reporter for CH 13 says It’s hard to get over the twisted way they are trying to rewrite history here: Gafni and Maklev are ousted in the dead of night and in a humiliating manner, and then they are “thanked for their contributions and service.” After that, their aides and associates, who were simply trying to defend their bosses and their livelihoods, are publicly blamed and dismissed. Then a video is circulated claiming that all these steps were supposedly taken with the approval of Rabbi Moshe Hillel Hirsch. Only one small mistake was made along the way: Rabbi Moshe Hillel Hirsch did not approve this forceful document.

- Icecream House in Lakewood has added more parking spaces with two additional parking lots behind the building to accommodate the customers (feder status)

- A growing dispute within the Agudas Yisroel faction of Yahadut HaTorah could lead to a major political shakeup ahead of the next Knesset election. MK Porush and Belz MK have announced they will run on their own party within UTJ  a procedural move that allows them to not be beholden to Gur. The conflict centers on Ger’s demand to remove Sanz representative Moshe Shimon Roth from the fifth spot because he would not commit to following Ger’s Central Faction on every vote. The dispute has become so serious that other Agudah factions are now considering running with Degel HaTorah without Ger or forming their own electoral bloc, and negotiations on a joint Degel-Agudah slate have reportedly been delayed.

- Uman Rosh Hashana: Hundreds of Breslover Chassidim traveling to Uman for Rosh Hashanah were left without their luggage after HiSky flights from Ben Gurion Airport to Kishinev, Moldova, departed without passengers’ suitcases. The missing luggage contains clothing and other essential supplies, leaving many travelers scrambling to manage ahead of Rosh Hashanah.

- Trump holds phone call with Putin, telling him he wants the war in Ukraine ended “as soon as possible.”

- NYC Mayor Zohran Mamdani says he will attend Friday’s 25th-anniversary 9/11 ceremony at Ground Zero, despite former Mayor Rudy Giuliani criticizing his attendance. Mamdani said the event should focus on the nearly 3,000 victims, their families and the first responders who responded to the attacks.

- Rabbi Ephraim Mirvis, the Chief Rabbi of Britain: "This is truly a dark day for British Jews. Today, our government chose to ignore the deep concerns expressed by so many of us. The steps announced today are nothing more than a political flag-waving for false rhetoric against Israel and those who hold a dangerous obsession with the Jewish state. These steps will only succeed in strengthening the very extremism they claim to be combating

- Iran’s Revolutionary Guards Claim Attacks on 2 US Vessels and 8 Tankers: Iran’s Revolutionary Guards said they attacked 2 US vessels and 8 oil tankers in the Gulf in response to a US strike that destroyed 5 Iranian tankers. They claimed the 10 vessels had tried to cross an area of the Strait of Hormuz designated “prohibited and unsafe.” 

- Jordan says it intercepted 18 of 20 missiles, with no injuries reported. Iran says there was heavy damage.

- Iranian missiles explosions over Jordan were seen in Israeli skies including from Yerushalayim 

- Israeli official: Israel had a warning regarding a planned strike by the Revolutionary Guards into Jordan, but was surprised by the scale there had been no warning of an attack of this magnitude.

- US announces it destroyed 5 Iranian crude oil tankers tonight, in response to the IRGC attack on the US nuclear aircraft carrier with ballistic missiles, per CENTCOM.

- Iran launched barrage of  missiles at Muwaffaq Salti Air Base in Jordan; a large number of interceptors were fired. Explosions at the Muwaffaq Salti and Prince Hassan US air bases in Jordan minutes ago, the first targets. Initial reports of direct impacts at Muwaffaq with cluster munitions

- The US military is currently striking Iranian oil tankers near Kharg Island, a US official says, with Iranian media reporting multiple loud explosions heard near Kharg in the past minutes. Initial reports from Iran say the US struck 2 more oil tankers near Jask, +800km southeast from Kharg.

- Iran's IRGC warns all crews serving US oil tankers in and around the ports of Kuwait and Bahrain to "immediately leave their vessels whether at anchor or at the ports" because the tankers will be targeted, citing the US strikes on several Iranian oil tankers, in a statement just released. The IRGC names Kuwait and Bahrain as hosts and partners of the US military in the strikes, widening the imminent response from the US bases Iran named an hour ago to US shipping sitting in two Gulf states' ports.

- Netanyahu’s Office Denies UAE Warning Before 7 October: Netanyahu’s office called reports that UAE President Mohammed bin Zayed warned him before 7 October “false,” saying any relevant information would have been shared through intelligence channels. The UAE declined to address the reports directly, stating that it does not comment on speculation about conversations and that both countries maintain open communication and share relevant intelligence when necessary.

- Trump on Iran: "And I will tell you, we're right now fighting because we have a certain nation that wanted a nuclear weapon; they were very close to getting it, and now they have no chance of getting it. They will never have a nuclear weapon; Iran will not have a nuclear weapon. And they've been punished greatly"

 - Days before Oct. 7, UAE leader warned Netanyahu Hamas was planning war, but PM did nothing with the info.  Some 10 days before Hamas’s October 7, 2023, attack on Israel, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu was personally warned by the leader of the United Arab Emirates that Hamas was planning a major offensive move against Israel, but did not update Israeli security leaders and did nothing with the information, according to a report on Tuesday in Haaretz.

- Israel announced counter sanctions on Britain: The closure of the British consulate in East Jerusalem, which has been operating since the 19th century, and the expulsion of British representatives from the headquarters in Kiryat Gat that handles Gaza

- British Foreign Secretary Ed Miliband announces a sweeping sanctions package targeting Israeli settlements in the West Bank as well as a range of other punitive measures, during a speech in the House of Commons featuring Britain’s strongest-ever criticism of the settlement enterprise. Denouncing Israel’s entirely “unlawful occupation” of the West Bank, Miliband decries spiraling instances of settler violence against Palestinians, saying “settler terrorism is rampant,” and citing United Nations reports of an “average of six violent settler attacks against Palestinians per day this year, the highest on record.”

- Bloomberg: British diplomats updated the US that the sanctions planned by British Foreign Secretary David Miliband against the “settlements” are "largely symbolic and will not have a real impact on the broad relations between Britain and Israel in trade and security

- 12 countries jointly declare support for European measures against West Bank settlements. After UK Foreign Minister Ed Miliband announced wide-ranging sanctions against Israeli West Bank settlements, a group of Western states jointly declare their intention to support European measures against settlement products and to introduce new sanctions. Canada, Denmark, Finland, France, Iceland, Ireland, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Spain, Sweden and the UK release a statement confirming their “intention to introduce national and/or support European restrictions on trade in goods with settlements which are illegal under international law, or that they are actively considering these and other measures, in accordance with their national procedures.”The 12 countries underscore their commitment to a two-state solution. They call on Israel to “immediately halt the expansion of settlements and civilian administrative powers, ensure accountability for settler violence, and investigate allegations against Israeli forces.

- US Ambassador to Israel Mike Huckabee” This is an irrational action... if the UK is really interested in dealing with issues they feel are wrong, where are the sanctions against North Korea, China, Russia?

- Israel Foreign Minister Saar: The Labor Party's move is particularly absurd, especially given the Balfour Declaration by the British government, which officially recognized the right of the Jewish people to establish the State of Israel in the Land of Israel, including Judea and Samaria

Hazardous Busing: A Safety Issue for Every Child

Tomorrow  the Lakewood Board of Education will have a special meeting on hazardous bus transportation. The agenda includes a resolution authorizing up to $14.88 million for the Lakewood Student Transportation Authority (LSTA) to provide hazardous-route transportation for eligible nonpublic-school students. The funding is based on up to 12,642 students at a maximum of $1,177 per student, with the final amount subject to verification.

At the Lakewood Township  meeting last Thursday, Mayor Raymond Coles addressed the issue of hazardous busing in response to a parent who had sent emails to the Township and spoke up during the meeting online about the safety of children traveling to school.

According to Mayor Coles, the Board of Education will be paying for courtesy busing for non-mandated public-school students who live on hazardous routes. However, approximately 300 students will still not be covered.

As for hazardous busing for yeshiva and private-school students, the mayor said they are looking into the issue and indicated that the money should go “across the board.” to both private and public school.

A parent, who has children attending a yeshiva on Cross Street, pointed out that the route is too dangerous for children to walk. He questioned why parents are being forced to pay exorbitant amounts for LSTA transportation while there is no money specifically allocated in the new budget for the safety of children getting to school.

This raises a fundamental question: If a road is considered too hazardous for children to walk, shouldn't safe transportation be provided equally to all students public, yeshiva, and private?

Would you let your child walk to school down Cedarbridge Avenue, Cross Street, County Line Road, Route 88, or any other hazardous road with no sidewalks and heavy traffic?

For many parents, the answer is obvious: No.

Most of Lakewood is not safe to walk to school with no sidewalks, safe shoulders, and safe crossings at busy intersections.

And that is precisely the problem. There are roads in Lakewood that are recognized as hazardous for children traveling to and from school. New Jersey itself recognizes hazardous walking routes and allows districts to provide transportation for students who would otherwise have to walk along those routes.

Yet under current New Jersey law, a student who lives within the mileage threshold is not automatically entitled to transportation simply because the route is dangerous. Districts may provide courtesy or subscription busing and may charge parents for that service.

In Lakewood, until a few weeks ago the Township paid the Board of Education for courtesy and hazardous transportation for public-school students. Private-school families, however, are required to pay out of pocket when they opt into courtesy transportation through the LSTA. With the annual fee increasing to $675, families are being asked to pay for transportation because the alternative is for children to travel along roads that have been designated hazardous.

This should not be a question of whether a family can afford the bus. A child's safety should not depend on whether his or her parents can afford the transportation fee.

A distance measured on a map does not tell us whether a child can safely walk that route. Two miles on a sidewalk is not the same thing as two miles along a road with no sidewalk, heavy traffic, high speeds, blind curves, dangerous crossings, or other hazards.

The mayor's response is an important step, but the question remains: Will the new budget provide funding for hazardous transportation for every child who needs it, regardless of which school they attend?

Chasunas:

Neiman - Kurz Neemas Hachaim 

- Kabolas Panim reception  for the Roshei yeshiva of Torah Vodass Rav Yisroel Reisman, Rav Yitzchok Lichtenstein  Rav Yosef Savitzky shlita Hachana for Yomim Noraim at 227 Autumn Rd Lakewood Maariv 8:40pm Kabolas Kahal 9:30pm

- Adirei HaTorah Parlor meeting at Jackson 21

- Yartzeit of Rav Menashe Klein ZTL and Kabolas Kahal with the Ungvar Rav Shlita 1002 W. Kennedy Blvd Lakewood Maariv 8:40 p.

- Fundraiser for Keren Hatzolah Satmar at 47 Arosa Hill Lakewood 

Selichos Stolin B"M 9:45 pm

Neimark Toms River 10:00pm

Lutzk 10:15 Simcha Hall

Chestnut shul, Kol Shimshon, Satmar, Lutzk, Alumni 12:45am

- Israeli officials admit: "We have no idea when the 'spark' that will ignite the protest in Iran will arrive - but it will arrive"..

- Iran launches multiple waves of anti-ship cruise missiles and Shahed-136 drones from Sirik, southern Iran, toward vessels under US Navy escort in the US-backed southern Omani corridor of the Strait of Hormuz, per initial reports.

- UK set to announce ban on trade with Israeli settlements in West Bank. British Foreign Secretary Ed Miliband told the House of Commons last week the UK needs “a comprehensive reset of our policy” when it comes to the West Bank.

- Jared Kushner on Gaza and Israel: "We are working on several political issues in Israel. I think we agree with them on the desired end state. It's just that they have crazy elections, and that makes them a bit irrational in certain aspects.

- Iran: IRGC Deploys in Isfahan: IRGC and Basij forces are deploying in large numbers across Isfahan Province. This move precedes a petrol price hike scheduled to take effect at midnight local time.

- Strait of Hormuz: Mine Clearance OperationThe US Navy spent four months secretly clearing Iranian naval mines from the Strait of Hormuz. Divers, robotic boats, and underwater vehicles located and neutralized mines, though commercial shipping remains cautious due to ongoing threats.

- Jizan: Aramco Facility StruckSaudi Aramco's Jizan oil facilities were struck, marking the second attack in just over a month. NASA FIRMS detected three thermal anomalies at the facility, which has not fully operated since late July.

Weather:  80° Abundant sunshine.

Labor day major retail stores and grocery chains are open on Labor Day, while government offices, banks, and mail services are closed. Costco is closed.

Today The 25th of Elul marks the anniversary of the first day of creation, of the ששת ימי בראשית 

- Trump: Oil prices will drop precipitously, like everything else is dropping (but more!), when we WIN the war with Iran. Three Dollars a gallon, but ultimately, below Two Dollars a gallon. It will all happen quickly, and Iran will never have a Nuclear Weapon. MAGA! President DJT

- Update on White House Admorim visit 

Repprt: Jared Kushner called Rabbi Yisrael Moshe Spitzer, the mayor of New Square, and told him that President Trump had read the letter from the Skverer Rebbe, shlita. Trump then told his daughter, Ivanka Kushner, that the letter was an extremely warm and heartfelt letter, and that it was a beautiful and wonderful letter.

- BDE: Petirah of Rebbetzin Sarah Bressler A"H wife of  Ybl"C Rav Chaim Bressler shlita  rosh yeshiva of Yeshiva Bais Moshe of Scranton, Pennsylvania.  Levaya tonight in Lakewood 10pm at the chapel she was 87.

Rav Bressler along with Rav Schnaidman arrived in Scranton as young talmidim of Rav Aharon Kotler in 1965 to establish the yeshiva Rebbetzin Bressler accompanied and supported that mission throughout. Recently Rav and Rebbetzin Bressler  relocated to Lakewood, New Jersey, where they settled in the A Country Place neighborhood. Rebbetzin Bressler leaves behind her husband, Rav Chaim Bressler, as well as their distinguished family of children and grandchildren who continue in the path of Harbotzas haTorah  The levayah will be held in Lakewood tonight, Monday night, at 10 p.m. at the  Chapel,  off 7th street. 

Zoom link HERE Passcode 622300

- MK Moshe Gafni will remain as party chairman after he was removed off the list from serving as a knessset member after the elections. MkUri Maklev will remain with the party in a supporting role.

- New Jersey’s Democratic governor Sherrill is facing heat over her immigration policies after an illegal immigrant fleeing a targeted ICE operation crashed into multiple vehicles, injuring the wife of a Democratic mayor. The incident is renewing criticism from Republican lawmakers who have opposed New Jersey’s restrictions on cooperation between local police and federal immigration authorities. 

- Polymarket Centrist former IDF chief Gadi Eisenkot is now projected to be Israel's next prime minister, unseating Benjamin Netanyahu.51% chance.

- Hashkafa in the work place Labor day learning event with Q And A panel at the Beru hall in Tims River today.

- President Trump appears to be switching up his signature look, and social media is taking notice. Trump stepped off Air Force One in New Jersey with his famously blond hair appearing noticeably darker, sparking a wave of speculation online over whether the president debuted a new color.

- The NJ GOP is now calling for Lt. Gov. Dale Caldwell's resignation following a report about an ethics investigation of inappropriate behavior that was kept secret for  a while.

- Infestation updates for Rosh Hashonah here

- Belz  chasidus announced that MK Yisroel Eichler will not run on United Torah Judaism’s Agudas Yisrael slate and will be replaced by Rabbi Eliakim Stark. Eichler has served almost continuously as a lawmaker since 2003 and recently held the post of deputy communications minister. Israeli political reporters note this was a last minute switch the hospitalization of the rebbe was a factor.

- White house meeting with Admorim, activist Yossi Gesterner in a  interview from behind the scenes leading up to the historic meeting says very powerful forces tried stopping it up to the last minute. The Complicated Path to the Historic White House Visit watch Here

- For the girls who are still not placed in school Submitted: Beautiful initiate for girls out of school. This is a temporary program for girls currently waiting for school placement — iy”H they’ll all be in schools very soon! We’ll be running Monday–Thursday, 10–2, with Monday & Tuesday at Dr. Suss Stables and Wednesday & Thursday at Rosenfeld Ranch. Just heard about this and it would be a chesed to share with those out of school.

- Kosher Pizza vending machine at Exxon kosher, to go live this week

- Trump: Happy Labor Day to all, including the Radical Left Lunatics, Communists, and Dumocrats who will do anything possible to destroy our Country. These Deranged People, after fighting for 10 years, should finally acknowledge that your Favorite President (ME!), knows how to WIN! They should be exhausted by now but, sadly, they’re not. They’re going to give it one last shot at ruining America, but we’re not going to let that happen. We’re going to win the Midterms, BIG, and SAVE AMERICA! President DONALD J. TRUMP

- First Delta airlines flight arrived in Israel as the company resumes flights since October 7th.

- Israir Airlines will begin selling tickets tonight for its new Tel Aviv–New York route after investing $85 million in two Airbus A330 wide-body aircraft. The first flight from Tel Aviv is scheduled for September 15, with the first return from New York on September 17.

- Lakewood busing NJ 12 reporter joined students who are now walking to school since courtesy busing was cut "According to an attorney for the Lakewood School District, Lakewood Township previously paid for courtesy bussing. However, the township has stopped funding the service and the district's council said the school system cannot afford to cover the cost on its own."

There will be a Special  BOE meeting this Wednesday open to the public to discuss Hazardous busing for both public and private mon mandated students.

- Uman Rosh Hashana thousands have arrived already ahead of RH. Earlier today near Uman air sirens went off of possible Russian attack  forcing people to seek shelter.

- President Trump posted a video of him changing New Mexico State to New America

- A Hafgana is planned tomorrow at Kikar Shabbks for an American Yeshiva bochur who is in jail for 3 months following protects against the light rail construction in Yerushalayim.

The annual pre Rosh Hashana cleaning of the paper kvitlach from the Kosel

Hashkafa With Rav Gershon Ribner Shlita

The Shaila that stumped the great Posek of all time Failed initiatives to solve shidduch crisis Halachic and ethical boundaries for Rabbinic interactions with women
 The one student who built up HG”R Nochum ז”ל The State of Israel's scorn of the chareidim

Essence of cantorship: voice, character, spirituality Generals of faith choose which battle matters most

 יום א סליחות שבוע של ראש השנה

Weather: 74° Considerable clouds this morning. Some decrease in clouds later in the day.

24 Elul:  The 93rd Yartzeit of R' Yisrael Meir Kagan HaKohen of Radin, the Chofetz Chaim (1838-1933)

Last full Sunday before Sukkos due to calender schedule this year.

Bingo Yom Tov sale going on thru Sept 8

-Trump: Many people suggested changing the name of New Mexico, one of the great vote cheating states of all time, to NEW AMERICA. So much more prestigious and beautiful for the people of that potentially incredible State. Wow, I Love It!!! President DONALD J. TRUMP

- Trump declares "The Moon is ours"

- Channel 13 reports: The drama within Degel HaTorah party Rav Meir Tzvi Bergman, the senior rabbinic authority of Degel HaTorah, is refusing to sign today on the removal of Knesset members Moshe Gafni and Uri Maklev. Rav Berel Povarsky, head of the Ponevezh Yeshiva, is also refusing to sign. They believe that ulterior considerations are behind the move to oust Gafni and Maklev.

- Update 5 killed and 5 injured. An Amazon Prime Air Boeing 767 cargo jet overran the runway at Miami International Airport, crossed a perimeter road and caught fire. Heavy black smoke is visible across the area. The FAA has issued a ground stop. The flight was arriving from San Juan. Details on the crew remain limited. 

- A Cargo Plane Crashes Near Miami International Airport Runway unconfirmed reporte say  3 Dead & 1 Ground Fatality after it overruns the runway.

- The Belzer Rebbe was taken to Hadassah Ein Kerem Hospital for medical tests after not feeling well. He did not attend Selichos.  ישכר דוב בן מרים לרפו"ש

- Hanochas Even Hapina at Yeshiva Heichal  Hatalmud R'Y Rav Moshe Weiss shlita today 3:00pm Bellevue corner Newport st Lakewood

- Chanukas Habayis at Rachmastrivka  aisle Medrash in Lakewood on Oak and Vine intersection.

- Hachnosas sefer Torah to Bais Medrash Shvilei Dovid Oak n Vine procession leaving 4pm from 101 Oak st to the Bais Medrash 74 Broadway.

- Hachnosas Sefer Torah to Bais Medrash of Pine Street LKewood procession leaving from 1 Treeside at 5:30pm to the B"M.

- Hachnosas sefer Torah at BM Ohev Yisroel Opta at Oak N Vine procession leaving from 82 Wadsworth Lakewood at 6pm

- Breslov rabbonim urge those with draft issues with IDF to not attempt going to Uman but to spend Rosh Hashana in Miron instead.

- Trump: Canada’s (currency) Dollar imbalance with the U.S. is unacceptable. It has been that way for years - but no longer! President DJT

- The Lakewood BOE is set to hold a special meeting Wednesday afternoon to address courtesy busing and hazardous routes, The special session is scheduled for Wednesday, Sept. 9, at 4:30 p.m., with the Board expected to discuss transportation for both public and private school. Meeting will be open to the public.

- Pre yom tov semi annual warehouse sale for women's and girls clothing will take place at American Dream mall tomorrow and Monday Labor day at the brand new event center 11am -8pm

- Shas moetzes keeps all incumbent knesset members for upcoming elections and adds new names

- Degel ousts MK Gafni and Maklev amid internal  turmoil followed by a letter sent motzei shabbos from Rav Dov Landau notifying of their  termination. Rav Moshe Hillel Hirsch has not issued any statement or signed the letter.

- Agudah Ger rebbe instructed party that MK Goldknopf will remain in the kneesset.

- Deal, New Jersey known for its luxury estates, tops the list as the borough with the greatest increase in home prices, followed by Bay Head and Sea Girt all three Jersey shore towns the towns with the fastest growing home prices in Monmouth and Ocean counties: 

Deal Typical home value: $4,570,316

1-year price change: +$615,185 (+15.6%)

5-year price change: +$1,876,391 (+69.7%)

- Naftali Bennett announces B’Yachad list for October elections Yair Lapid's Yesh Atid party is running on a joint list with Bennett, and the final list will include a merger between the two parties' members,

- Submitted: Some phones got an update over shabbos, asking people to sign in to their SMS. This is security vulnerability, it is NOT recommended to sign in or to give over any information; as this allows the app to see all your text messages.

- US peace envoys Jared Kushner and Steve Witkoff met with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy in Kyiv today Sunday as the Trump administration renewed its push to end Russia's four-and-a-half-year war in Ukraine, Report informs via Reuters.

Kushner and Witkoff travelled from Moscow, where ‌they held three hours of talks with Russian President Vladimir Putin on Shabbos but did not appear to secure a breakthrough in the conflict.

- President Trump and JD Vance are making it Possible for Stay Home Parents to Collect Federal child-care Subsidies, Possibly up to $9,000 per Child The Trump administration is drafting a rule change that would let married couples collect federal child-care subsidies if one spouse stays home with the kids while the other works. Critics say 9k is not enough to replace a salary plus childcare cost savings 

Selichos at the newly renovated Satmar  Rodney Bais Medrash in Williamsburg

- US President Donald Trump posted two inverted maps of the Middle East on Truth Social, one showing Iran in its real shape while the other shows the country in the shape of his head's silhouette.

- Energy Secretary Chris Wright: "A nuclear deal with Iran may not happen; we will simply continue to destroy their ability to achieve it. Any agreement may have to wait for the next government in Iran; we don't know that yet."

- Ali Abdullahi, commander of the Iranian armed forces: "The expectation of the United States that Iran will surrender is an illusion that will never come true."

- Hezbollah fired drones at Israeli soldiers. Israel responded with fire. The IDF describes the coming days as “particularly sensitive,” partly due to the operation in the Beaufort area and the fact that Hezbollah and, to a certain extent, Iran as well have threatened to respond to the advance of ground forces beneath the Ali Taher Ridge.

- IDF Chief Warns of Tense Period During Surprise Drill: IDF Chief of Staff Lt. Gen. Eyal Zamir held a General Staff assessment as part of the surprise exercise “Dawn 2.0,” which began this morning. Zamir said the situation across all arenas is tense and volatile, stressing that the IDF is preparing for the upcoming holidays and maintaining readiness for a surprise attack.

- Israel Security Council issued a warning to Israelis traveling abroad: Iran’s Quds Force and Hamas abroad will intensify efforts to harm Israelis during the holiday period in countries around the world

 New York Times report: Iran has gained confidence in its ability to strike targets in the Middle East and appears determined to continue the confrontation for months to frustrate the United States, according to recent US intelligence reports.

- U.S. forces have destroyed three Iranian oil tankers after Iran attempted to fire ballistic missiles at two U.S. Navy warships, according to CENTCOM. An aircraft carrier and a guided-missile destroyer were targeted but not hit. 

No Americans were injured.

CENTCOM commander Adm. Brad Cooper: “Let the message to the IRGC be clear: If you shoot at two of our ships, we will impose an even higher economic cost  taking out three of yours.”

- US Central Command: Thanks to the precision and professionalism of US service members, the oil tanker M/T Kylo sank today in the Gulf of Oman and joined the Iranian fleet on the seabed.

- NYP: “The Islamic Republic is allegedly plotting to repeat Hamas’ barbaric Oct. 7 attacks  which saw more Jews killed in a single day than any time since the Holocaust but this time with full coordination of their sprawling terrorist network, which includes Hezbollah in Lebanon and the Houthis in Yemen, according to the Jerusalem Post.

Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps officials have sought to revitalize its “Axis of Resistance” terrorist network and have held multiple planning meetings with leaders from Hezbollah, the Houthis and Iraqi militias about an escalation against Israel, the outlet reported.”

 Tonight 64 clear tomorrow Cloudy skies with a few showers later in the day. High around 75F. Chance of rain 30%

Tomorrow is the only full Sunday before Sukkos.

                     במוצאי מנוחה קדמנוך תחילה 

- Selichos Motzei Shabbos in BMG at the Yoshon, Princton, Forest, Bais Aaron, Bais Sholom starting at 1:00am. Harav Yeruchom Olshin shlita will speak in Bais Aaron at 12:30 pm 4:35am in Zemel BM,5:15 an vasikin ,6:40am Carey BM

Lutzk motzei shabbos 12:45 Sunday morning before the 7/8/9 minyanim

- Khal Bnei Yissosscher Toms River 1767 Whitesville Selichos 10:00 pm,12:15am and 12:45 am and tomorrow Am minyanim

In light of the letter by gedolei EY against the musical selichos some have changed to are selichos kumzitz followed by with regular selichos.

- Political  Shakeup in Degel HaTorah party as Mk Moshe Gafni and Mk Uri Maklev are forced out after a lengthy career. Rav Dov Lando, sent letters to Moshe Gafni,  and Uri Maklev, thanking them for their years of service in the knesset citing the need to "refresh" the party's presence in the Knesset as the reason for the two members' departures and requested that Gafni remain the party's chairman.

-  The Lakewood Board of Education is set to hold a special meeting Wednesday afternoon to address courtesy busing and hazardous routes, The special session is scheduled for Wednesday, Sept. 9, at 4:30 p.m., with the Board expected to discuss transportation for students attending nonpublic schools and, in particular, how Lakewood’s policies governing roads deemed hazardous should be applied under New Jersey law. The issue could have significant implications in Lakewood, where thousands of children who live within the state mileage limits for mandatory transportation nevertheless travel along heavily trafficked roads that the district itself has formally classified as hazardous. “A hazardous road is hazardous regardless of what school a child attends. Matzav.

 - The mayor of Jackson Township, New Jersey, is calling for the state’s sanctuary policies to be rolled back after an illegal immigrant struck a family in a grocery store parking lot, killing a 9-month-old baby. Mayor Jennifer Kuhn reveals that local police cannot contact ICE when they encounter someone who is undocumented — and that has to change.“Condolences at this point are not enough. Leadership needs to step in.”

- Trump officials draft plan that would pay parents to stay home & raise their children using federal child care funds. The program could be $9K per year for these families The goal: make it easier for married Americans to let one parent take care of the children, rather than both work and pay others to take care of the children This could create an incentive for parents to "stay at home with their chilren"

- Pre yom tov semi annual warehouse sale for women's and girls clothing will take place  at American Dream mall tomorrow and Monday Labor day at the brand new event center 11am -8pm

 - NYP: “The Islamic Republic is allegedly plotting to repeat Hamas’ barbaric Oct. 7 attacks — which saw more Jews killed in a single day than any time since the Holocaust — but this time with full coordination of their sprawling terrorist network, which includes Hezbollah in Lebanon and the Houthis in Yemen, according to the Jerusalem Post.Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps officials have sought to revitalize its “Axis of Resistance” terrorist network and have held multiple planning meetings with leaders from Hezbollah, the Houthis and Iraqi militias about an escalation against Israel, the outlet reported.”

Wearing the tallis of his his Grandfather, the Imrei Chaim the Vizhnitzer Rebbe, Rav Yisroel Hagar Shlita, led the first night of Selichos in the Beis Medrash Hagadol in Bnei Brak tonight.

Friday, September 4, 2026 / כ'ב אלול תשפ"ו ערב שבת פרשת נצבים-וילך
-Candle lighting: 7:05 pm
-Shkia/sunset: 7:23 pm

Weather shabbos tonight 66° Overcast. A stray shower or thunderstorm is possible.

Shabbos day 81° Partly cloudy

Pirkei Avos 6

The Bris Avrohom of Slonim would say: Since Chazal write, “One day of the year can be considered like the complete year” (Rosh Hashanah 2b), it is possible for one to rehabilitate the entire year even on its final day. Certainly the same applies to the last Shabbos of the year: It is possible to elevate the Shabbosos of the entire year on this final Shabbos. His son in law, the Nesivos Shalom adds: Aside from the restoration of the past year that can be achieved on this final Shabbos, this Shabbos serves also as the gateway and preparation for the awesome Yomim Noraim of the following year

פרשת ׳ניצבים׳ נקראת תמיד בערב ראש השנה, כדי להנחיל מסר חשוב: ״אתם ניצבים היום כולכם״ - כשאתם יחד, באחדות, במצב של ׳כולכם׳ וכאיש אחד או אז אנו מובטחים כי נתייצב איתן ביום הדין, יום הרת-עולם, וניכתב לשנה טובה ומתוקה. ״ברכנו אבינו״ - כאשר ״כולנו כאחד״

 Friday, September 4, 2026 / כ״ב אלול תשפ״ו ערב שבת פרשת נצבים-וילך

Candle lighting 7:05 pm

Shkiah/Sunset 7:23 pm

Weather: 86° Sun and clouds mixed. A stray shower or thunderstorm is possible. 

Tonight 66° Overcast. A stray shower or thunderstorm is possible.

Shabbos day 81° Partly cloudy

Last shabbos of the year The Nesivos Shalom adds: Aside from the restoration of the past year that can be achieved on this final Shabbos, this Shabbos serves also as the gateway and preparation for the awesome Yomim Noraim of the following year.

Selichos begins this Motzei Shabbos. Rosh Hashana is next shabbos and Sunday. This coming Sunday is the last regular  Sunday before Sukkos.

This shabbos 23 Elul is the 25th yartzeit of the yidden who were killed in the September 11 attacks.

- Admor M"Kaliv will be spending shabbos in Lakewood at the Stamford Meadows community and selichos motzei shabbos will be in New Square.

- Rachmastrivka Oak and Vine will have Selichos at the new B"M building corner Oak and Vine Lakewood 

Sefardi chief Rabbi the Rishon L'Tzion Chacham David Yosef will be spending shabbos in Deal, New Jersey 

- Bingo/Misachei Lev Yom Tov sale going on now thru September 8. Side of Salmon $6.99 a LB

Wooden Sukka panel $35

Electric small car $5k at the Lakewood store

- Toms River’s zoning board has approved Rabbi Moshe Rotberg’s plan to expand Khal Zichron Yechezkel, an Orthodox synagogue on Old Freehold Road. The project will add 4,000 square feet to the existing 3,000-square-foot building, bringing it to about 7,000 square feet. App

- The Skver Rebbe’s son who was at the meeting with Trump said after learning 99.9% of New Square voted for him, Trump jokingly asked who the remaining 0.1% were.

- From the township meeting last night

Hazardous Route Busing: Mayor Coles said the Lakewood BOE will pay for courtesy busing for non-mandated public school students who live along hazardous routes. However, approximately 300 students will not be covered.

As for hazardous-route busing for yeshiva and private school students, the mayor said officials are looking into the issue, adding that the funding should go “across the board.”

A parent whose children attend a yeshiva on Cross Street told the mayor that the route is too dangerous for children to walk, while parents are still required to pay for LSTA. He questioned why the new budget does not include funding to help ensure the safety of children traveling to school.

- Budget Vote Delayed: The Lakewood Committee did not vote on the budget tonight. The budget still requires approval from the Division of Local Government Services and must be advertised again. The committee hopes to vote on the budget next month, before the fourth-quarter tax bills go out.

Terrorist attack thwarted near the kosel after selichos last night A 33-year-old knife-wielding attacker attempted to chase and stab Jews and Border Police officers in the Old City early Friday near shaar Shchem at Damascus gate. Police shot the terrorist, preventing casualties.

- Giyus: A Charedi dual American-Israeli citizen was arrested while attempting to leave Israel over alleged draft refusal, hours after rabbonim  met with President Trump about this specific  scenario  asking for diplomatic intervention on the arrests of American citizens by IDF military police.

- State employees in New Jersey next year will pay about 13.3% more for their health insurance premiums and local public workers will pay an average of 22% more under rate plans approved Thursday. This is the fourth consecutive year the 450,000 state, county, and local government workers and retirees who belong to the State Health Benefits Program have faced double-digit premium increases. This will increase property taxes across New Jersey.

- Trump: Great jobs number just announced, breaking all estimates (except mine!) by double and triple - And you haven’t seen anything yet! EMPLOYERS ADDED 162,000 JOB IN AUGUST. Lower the interest rates because the U.S.A. is a much stronger credit than it was just a short time ago! A STRONG COUNTRY MEANS A LOWER INTEREST RATE - IT’S A BETTER CREDIT…Very simple! We should have the LOWEST RATE of any country in the World, like “the old days.” Without the United States agreeing to allow them their big surpluses, and we could stop that immediately, they would no longer be considered financially ELITE! LOWER THE RATE OR I’LL STOP TRADING WITH COUNTRIES WITH WHICH WE HAVE A DEFICIT, which the U.S. Supreme Court, in its ridiculous and very costly Tariff decision, strongly acknowledged “the President” has an absolute right to do. ITS BETTER THAN TARIFFS! The Fed Board, with its great new leader, must get smart - BE PATRIOTS for a change. High interest rates put the U.S.A. at a very unfair disadvantage, and I won’t allow that to happen! President DONALD J. TRUMP

Inside the White House Meeting: Reb Gedalia Segedin of Kiryas Yoel shares new Details of the Historic Gathering

                         White House photo 

A delegation of leading Chassidishe Rebbes, Roshei Yeshiva and community representatives met with President Donald Trump at the White House on Thursday, September 3, ahead of Rosh Hashanah. The gathering brought together senior rabbinic leaders representing major Chareidi communities in New York and New Jersey.

Among those present were the two Satmar Rebbes, the Bobover Rebbe, the Vizhnitzer Rebbe of Monsey, Rav Malkiel Kotler, Rosh Yeshiva of Beth Medrash Govoha in Lakewood, and Rav Aharon Mendel Twersky, who represented his father, the Skverer Rebbe. Community representatives included Reb Gedalia Segedin and others. 

Kosher Food for Jewish Prisoners

One of the issues raised with administration officials was the difficulty Jewish inmates in federal prisons face in obtaining edible kosher food. The delegation explained that the kosher meals currently being provided can be problematic for frum inmates, while kosher meat and other kosher food products are more expensive than the standard daily food allowance allocated per prisoner.

A proposal was therefore presented to prepare ready-made kosher meals in Kiryas Joel kitchens. The community has facilities capable of producing large quantities of prepared food, and the delegation suggested that meals could be produced at a cost that would remain within, or close to, the government's existing per-inmate food allowance.

The proposal would potentially address two issues at once: providing Jewish inmates with genuinely edible kosher meals while avoiding a substantial increase in government expenditures**.**

Appreciation for the COVID-Era Reopening of Yeshivos and Batei Medrash

During the Oval Office meeting, the Kiryas Yoel Satmar Rebbe expressed appreciation to President Trump for his actions during the COVID-19 period that allowed batei medrash and Jewish institutions to reopen. The delegation emphasized the importance of being able to resume Torah learning and communal religious life at a time when many institutions were facing restrictions.

Vaccine Requirements and the Schools

Another subject discussed was New York State's vaccine requirements for children and their impact on yeshivos and Jewish schools. The delegation explained that the community should not be characterized as "anti-vax." Rather, the concern being raised was specifically about vaccination schedule and the practical consequences for schools and families

They thanked the president for the newly introduced child vaccine protocol lowering the amount of shots per well visit. Some Satmar schools had received fines from New York State for failing to comply with the state's vaccine protocols. The delegation explained that the new approach to the vaccination schedule would work substantially better for the schools and the communities they serve.

A Discussion About New York Politics

President Trump also asked the rabbinic leaders about voting patterns in New York, particularly why Democratic candidates continue to receive significant support in parts of the state. The response was that the community has to be pragmatic about politics.

The Chareidi communities do not have enough votes by themselves to flip or control every state legislative or congressional seat, and therefore their political approach must take into account who actually holds power in Albany and Washington. The explanation was essentially that political engagement is based on the practical interests of the community rather than simply on party identification.

The Question of Netanyahu

According to Segedin's account, President Trump also asked the Satmar Rebbes about Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. Jared Kushner was present during the discussion and reportedly waved off the subject, indicating to Trump that the Satmar leadership does not involve itself with Israeli politicians.

The publicly reported accounts confirm that Kushner joined the Oval Office meeting at Trump's request, but the specific Netanyahu exchange has not been independently reported in the sources reviewed here. 

The IDF Draft and Religious Freedom

A major issue raised with the president was the situation facing Chareidi yeshiva students in Israel amid the IDF draft crisis. The rabbinic delegation signed a letter asking President Trump to protect religious freedom for those who are being compelled to serve in the Israeli military despite their religious commitments. The appeal also raised the situation of American citizens who hold dual U.S.-Israeli citizenship and who have faced arrest or other restrictions connected to draft evasion.

The Lakewood Rosh Yeshiva, Rav Malkiel Kotler, personally delivered the letter to President Trump. 

Trump Came Prepared

One of the more striking details from inside the meeting was the preparation President Trump had made beforehand. Trump reportedly had a card prepared for each Rebbe and Rosh Yeshiva who was attending. Each card included a photograph of the rabbinic leader as well as information about him and facts about the community he represents. The preparation appeared to impress the delegation and demonstrated that the president and his staff had made an effort to familiarize themselves with the individual leaders and the communities they represent.

Trump also appeared familiar with the communities' voting patterns. According to the reported account, he was told that he received approximately 98% of the vote in Kiryas Yoel and 100% in New Square.

The Meeting With Trump

Rav Aharon Teitelbaum first had a private meeting with President Trump, accompanied by Gedalia Segedin. The discussion lasted approximately 10–15 minutes and focused primarily on pidyon shvuyim and other urgent communal concerns, including the Chareidi draft crisis. 

The remaining delegation subsequently entered the Oval Office. At one point, Rav Aharon recited the traditional Hanosein Teshuah prayer for the welfare of the government. Segedin translated the prayer into English for President Trump. Trump then asked that Jared Kushner be brought into the room, reportedly saying that Kushner "must be here" for such distinguished guests. The meeting continued with discussions of the various communal issues and requests.

Additional Details from the White House Meeting

Preserving Jewish Cemeteries and Kevarim in Europe

Another issue brought before the president was the condition of Jewish cemeteries and kevarim throughout Europe. The delegation explained that many historic Jewish burial sites have been vandalized, neglected and allowed to fall into serious disrepair. These cemeteries are the resting places of generations of European Jewry and, for many communities, contain the kevarim of prominent Rabbonim and ancestors.

The delegation noted that previous U.S. administrations had recognized the importance of preserving Jewish cemeteries and had established efforts and committees to address the problem. They specifically referenced the administrations of Presidents Jimmy Carter and Ronald Reagan and asked President Trump to continue and strengthen those efforts.

The request was presented not simply as a historical or preservation matter, but as an issue of kavod ha'meis and the responsibility to protect Jewish burial places that remain vulnerable across Europe.

The Atmosphere Inside the White House

There had also been considerable discussion on social media beforehand about how the meeting might be received by various political groups, including elements of the right wing. According to those who were present, however, none of that was felt inside the meeting itself. The atmosphere was described as extremely friendly, cordial and respectful. The discussions were conducted in a calm and constructive manner, with the president listening to the concerns brought by the rabbinic delegation and engaging directly with the Rebbes and representatives.

Those present said there was no sense inside the room of the political controversy or social-media reaction that had surrounded the meeting from the outside. Instead, the focus remained on the issues affecting Jewish communities and on the opportunity to bring those concerns directly to the president.

The hope expressed afterward was that the meeting would ultimately have a positive practical effect and lead to concrete assistance on some of the issues raised particularly matters affecting frum Jews and Jewish communities in America.

For the delegation, the purpose of the meeting was not simply the symbolism of having Rebbes in the Oval Office. It was an opportunity to bring specific communal concerns to the highest level of government and to advocate for the needs of Jewish families, schools, prisoners, religious institutions and communities.

A Broad Representation of the Chareidi Community

The participants emphasized that the Rebbes and Roshei Yeshiva represented communities numbering well over 250,000 Jewish residents. The delegation's message was that these communities constitute a significant voting population, while at the same time their political strategy in New York is shaped by practical considerations and the realities of the state's political landscape. The meeting therefore served not only as an opportunity to express hakaras hatov to President Trump, but also to place a broad range of communal concerns directly before the president and senior administration officials.

The Lakewood School Transportation Association (LSTA) is asking families for patience ahead of the first Friday dismissal of the school year amid ongoing transportation challenges.

The first week of LSTA transportation has been disastrous for many. Families have reported buses not showing up, major delays, skipped and ignored stops, students being dropped at the wrong schools, and children arriving early at locked schools without adult supervision. Some children have been left waiting for more than 90 minutes, while others have had to walk along dangerous roads or rely on parents for last-minute carpool transportation. There have also been reports of drivers not knowing their assigned routes or stops, ignoring scheduled stops, and students from different schools riding together and struggling to get along, creating additional challenges that drivers were not prepared for. 

LSTA said in a message sent to parents  that last-minute changes to Lakewood’s non-mandated transportation subsidy forced a major redesign of the transportation system in approximately 10 days, with much of the rerouting completed within 72 hours. Routes were consolidated, vendors were reassigned, and driver schedules had to be rebuilt.

According to LSTA, vendors received their final routes Sunday night after the opt-in/opt-out process was completed. Despite the compressed timeline, vendors and drivers worked quickly to put the new system into operation.

LSTA said there had been discussion about delaying transportation, but officials ultimately decided it was better to begin on schedule, even if the initial rollout was challenging.

With Friday’s first dismissal approaching, LSTA cautioned that Friday transportation can be difficult even under normal circumstances and asked parents to remain patient and understanding while the system stabilizes.

The organization noted that it faced a similar challenge about 10 years ago and eventually worked through it. LSTA emphasized that the current situation will not be resolved overnight but said its focus is now on getting routes and schedules back into a normal rhythm.

LSTA also thanked parents for their patience and expressed appreciation for the vendors and drivers working to keep transportation running during the transition.

Chasunas:

Ribiat - Bass Ateres Esther

Portnoy  - Zlotowitz Kesser Moshe Yehuda 

Chazon - Aizekovich Fountain Ballroom 

Gutterman Cedar Palace

Silverman  - Schreiber Ne'emas Hachaim 

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

LPD Traffic Alert: Joe Parker Rd will be closed from Cedarwood Dr to Brookfield Dr for planned County construction. Plan alternate route if possible.

- Israel is preparing for a possible resumption of war with Iran. Officials warn of serious signs that Tehran may be considering renewed hostilities. A political source says the Iranian regime may see a return to war as its only way out, while Defense Minister Israel Katz holds a situation assessment with IDF Chief of Staff Eyal Zamir and senior defense officials.

-IDF: A short while ago, fire was identified toward IDF troops operating east of the Yellow Line in the northern Gaza Strip. No IDF injuries were reported. The IDF struck in the area.

This constitutes a blatant violation of the ceasefire agreement in the Gaza Strip. The IDF views with severity the attempts by the terrorist organizations in the Gaza Strip to advance and execute attacks against IDF troops operating in the area.

- IDF announces: Our forces have achieved operational control over the Ali Tahr ridge, both above and below ground, and have cleared the area of Hezbollah terrorists. Some of the terrorists were killed, while others fled the area.

-  PM Netanyahu before the IDF General Staff Forum: "I am convinced of our ability to topple the Iranian regime. This is the central mission, and it is close."

- Vance on Iran: "I wouldn't call it a war. Right now, there is no active shooting. I recognize there have been places where this has flared up. Major combat operations lasted about six weeks. You're asking me a question, like, when will the Iranians stop shooting at ships? I think the reality is, I don't know the answer to that question... You would have to ask the Iranians

- IDF Chief of Staff Lt. Gen. Eyal Zamir said the military must expand its personnel pool, force structure, and advanced capabilities to meet growing missions. He said that since 7 October, Israel has fundamentally changed its security doctrine from containment to eliminating threats in advance.

Lebanese Reports: IDF Strikes Southern Lebanon: Lebanese media reported Israeli strikes in Al-Mansouri near Tyre and in the Ali Taher ridge area.

Trump Denies Reports of US Ammo shortage 

Trump: For the treasonous SCUM that refuses to accurately report on our Military Operation in Iran, we have virtually unlimited amounts of Mid to High Grade Ammunition, far more than we could ever use for this, or for any other War (which is highly unlikely!), that could improbably take place. In addition, we are producing Munitions at levels never seen before. We are stockpiling and preparing for any contingency that could happen. We are taking them for ourselves, the U.S.A., rather than selling them to others, but the sales to Allies will soon again, begin. Also, please let it be known, that the Biden Administration gave far more Munitions away to Ukraine, at no cost to them, whatsoever, than we have used in Iran. Hundreds of Billions of Dollars was given to Ukraine and NATO, free of charge, that Europe would have paid for — If they were only asked, but we will be asking for that money, though somewhat belatedly! Thank you for your attention to this matter. President DONALD J. TRUMP"

Weather: 87° Sunshine and clouds mixed.

Heat advisory in effect from 11am to 8pm today Heat index values up to 100 degrees expected.

Tonight Scattered thunderstorms early, then cloudy skies after midnight. Gusty winds and small hail are possible. Low near 70F. Chance of rain 50%.

- Lakewood BOE will be paying courtesy buaing for Non mandated public school students for hazardous routes according to Mayor Coles. A total of 300 students won't be covered. As for hazardous busing  for yeshiva and private school students the mayor says they are looking into it as the money should go across the board. The mayor responded to a parent who hs children in yeshiva on Cross St that it's too dangerous to walk yet we are forced to pay for LSTA  why is there no money allocated for safety of children getting to school in the new budget he asked.

Lakewood committee did NOT vote on the budget tonight at the meeting since there needs to be approval from the Division of Local government and it has to be advertised again. The committee hopes to vote on it next month. Before the 4th quarter tax bills go out.

- Three people were killed by illegals in car accidents in the Jackson Lakewood area in the  lat year including a mother and daughter by a DWI accident and last week a 9 month old in Jackson. NJ law that was recently passed prevents local police from sharing information with ICE about criminals that could have them taken off the streets. Assemblyman Schnal voted in favor of the bill. Assemblyman Sean Kean voted against it.

- ICE agents made some arrests today in the Toms River area.

- Recap of Historic neeting of Admorim and Rosh Yeshiva today with President Trump at the Whitehouse.

The delegation met with senior U.S. officials and President Trump, where they discussed major concerns facing the Jewish community, including education, antisemitism, security, Jewish cemeteries in Europe, prisons, and the issue of military conscription in Israel. Vice President J.D. Vance also joined the meeting. In the Oval Office, the rabbis were introduced to President Trump, and the Satmar Rebbe of Kiryas Joel delivered a blessing before raising the issue of giyus. President Trump also spoke about his support for Israel.

- A Chanukas Habayis will take place for the New Rachmastrivka Bais Medrash in Lakewood at the corner of Oak and Vine streets. The shul will open motzei shabbos for the first selichos with a chanukas Habayis event on Sunday.

- Lakewood township committee meeting today and vote to adopt the 2026 budget with major tax increase. Virtual only watch livestream Here see Agenda Here Items on agenda land sales, vacating street at N.Monterey, asking a waiver from finance board to raise taxes. Comments may be made live via Cisco-WebEx; or during the meeting via [email protected] Please include your name and address for the record.

- LSTA the school year has started with major transportation problems, including buses not showing up, significant delays, skipped stops, students being dropped at the wrong schools, and children arriving  early at locked schools without adult supervision. Some children have been left waiting over 90 minutes, while others have had to walk along dangerous roads or have parents scramble for last-minute transportation. Families are frustrated and concerned about student safety and the lack of reliable communication.

- Turmoil in Degel HaTorah party as there's a push from within to replace MK Gafni and Maklev with others and promoting MK Asher and Pindrus. A final ruling by gedolim is yet to come.

- At a chasunah in Lakewood this week , NJ Lieutenant Governor and Secretary of State Dr. Dale Caldwell was given a special honor placing the glass on the floor  at the chossons feet that he would break  under the chupa.

- The Basimta café in Yerushalayim will close for shabbos following weeks of hafganos by ehrliche yidden from the surrounding neighborhoods. The owner said it 'Became a focal point of friction and danger and he wants to lower the flames.

- Giyus there are currently 46 sitting in jail for draft dodging.

- Giyus: The Bagatz high Court Strikes Down Law Freezing Arrests of Charedi Draft Dodgers: All 9 High Court justices ruled that the amendment must be repealed because it had not properly passed a first reading under Section 85 of the Knesset rules. A majority of 8 also found that it severely violated the constitutional right to equality by shielding charedi draft dodgers while others remained subject to arrest.

- Newark Airport in New Jersey has just launched Facial Recognition Check Ins. It is a biometric eGate that allows travelers to pass through security checkpoints using only a facial scan being introduced for united Terminal C. Before arriving at the airport, you must opt into the program. You upload your passport details and Known Traveler Number (KTN) into your active United Airlines profile via their app.

- NJ Gov Mikie Sherrill: Ahead of the 25th anniversary of 9/11, I visited the National September 11 Memorial & Museum to reflect on a day that forever changed our nation. We mourn the nearly 3,000 lives lost, including nearly 700 New Jerseyans, and remember the families forever changed. We honor the extraordinary bravery of the first responders who ran toward danger. 25 years later, we carry their memory forward through remembrance and service.

- Governor Mikie Sherrill: Once again, Donald Trump is using the federal government to punish those he sees as his political enemies, and everyday New Jerseyans are paying the price. Natural disasters don’t care about political parties. When FEMA agreed that disaster relief was warranted, Donald Trump overruled the experts – and common sense – leaving New Jersey taxpayers holding the $84 million bag. During a winter of unprecedented, back-to-back extreme storms, our workers and towns rose to the occasion and got their communities up and running again, and they should not be punished for doing so. While the President may be willing to turn his back on communities for his petty politics, my Administration will continue fighting to ensure New Jersey communities have the resources they need to prepare, respond, and recover when disaster strikes. 

- At least 93 towns across New Jersey have banned the construction of data centers over the past several  months. However, the Sherrill administration is resisting calls from groups pushing for a statewide moratorium on data centers, favoring instead a piecemeal approach

- Trump: For the treasonous SCUM that refuses to accurately report on our Military Operation in Iran, we have virtually unlimited amounts of Mid to High Grade Ammunition, far more than we could ever use for this, or for any other War (which is highly unlikely!), that could improbably take place. In addition, we are producing Munitions at levels never seen before. We are stockpiling and preparing for any contingency that could happen. We are taking them for ourselves, the U.S.A., rather than selling them to others, but the sales to Allies will soon again, begin. Also, please let it be known, that the Biden Administration gave far more Munitions away to Ukraine, at no cost to them, whatsoever, than we have used in Iran. Hundreds of Billions of Dollars was given to Ukraine and NATO, free of charge, that Europe would have paid for — If they were only asked, but we will be asking for that money, though somewhat belatedly! Thank you for your attention to this matter. President DONALD J. TRUMP"

- Four Toms River Township Council members have had their pay suspended after failing to complete a local government course required under township law, according to Mayor Dan Rodrick’s administration. At issue is whether the elected officials satisfied a township requirement for training on local government.

Five prominent American Torah leaders including the Rebbes of Satmar, Bobov and Vizhnitz, Rav Malkiel Kotler, and Rabbi Aharon Mendel Twersky representing the Skverer Rebbe are scheduled to meet privately with President Trump at the White House today ahead of Rosh Hashanah. The meeting will be an opportunity to express appreciation for the President’s support of the charedi community and to advocate for key issues facing the community. Reports say there's a possibility to raise Israel's yeshiva draft crisis directly with the president.

They have departed  this morning from area airports  including  Belmar near Lakewood, Teterboro, NJ and  Stuart  airport near Monroe and scheduled to arrive at the White house by 12pm. The White House listed the meeting for 12:30 p.m. as a “policy meeting.”

The Jewish people are accompanying the Rabbonim with heartfelt prayers to “Hanosen Teshuah LaMelachim” the prayer for the welfare and success of kings that their words should find favor in the eyes of both God and man, and that the visit should be crowned with success for the benefit of the Torah-observant Jewish community.

Updates:

Headlines on social media: Trump Hosts Anti-Zionist Hasidic Rabbis at White House.

- The White House has yet to publish the official photos of the visit.

-Reporter Aryeh Erlich Satmar rebbe Reb Zalman Leib asked the president to keep our brothers in Israel regarding the military draft.

- New report from Yossi Geatetner

Some new details from today's historic Oval Office meeting:

In the Oval Office seating arrangement, Rav Malkiel Kotler was seated first, followed by Satmar Rebbe Reb Zalmen Leib and then Satmar Rebbe Reb Ahron.

Vice President JD Vance joined the meeting midway and personally greeted those seated around the table. 

Vance praised the Jewish community’s strong emphasis on family and education, saying both are issues close to him. 

At one point, he asked about the different colors of the Rebbes’ bekitches. 

Yossi Gestetner jokingly replied that “it depends on their bank account balance,” drawing laughter from the room. 

Congressman Mike Lawler and Jared Kushner were also present.

Martin Marks, the White House Jewish liaison, opened the meeting, followed by remarks from White House staff secretary will scharf

Yoeli Rosenfeld of Bobov, Rabbi Segedin of Satmar, Skver Mayor Yisroel Moshe Spitzer and others raised community concerns, with significant attention given to conditions facing Jewish prisoners in federal and state prisons across the country.

Upon arriving at the meeting, the two Satmar Rebbes warmly greeted each other and exchanged brachos. Reb Ahron also wished his brother Reb Reb Zalmen Leib  Mazel Tov on the engagement of a grandchild that was finalized the previous night.

Discussion points included protecting Chareidi educational independence from New York state requirements.

The Viznitz Rebbe of Monsey arrived slightly late and therefore missed the official White House group photo. 

Later, Satmar Rebbe Reb Ahron held a private roughly 10-minute meeting with President Trump together with Jared Kushner, after which the other Rabbonim were brought into the Oval Office. 

Reb Ahron made the bracha on President Trump, which Rabbi Segedin translated for the president.

White House Jewish liaison Martin Marks organized the gathering over several months as a chance for New Year greetings and appreciation of administration support for Orthodox institutions.

-Trump presented  the rabbonim with a token presidential coin after the meeting. 

- Lakewood Rosh Yeshiva was asked to say a few words in English by the Satmar rebbe ,the RY declined  and took out a letter in a envelope and gave it directly to  president Trump. 

The president was in a good mood and cracked some jokes throughout the conversation with  the rabbonin per reporter Jake Turx on Kol Mevaser. He listened to the issue of Giyus but didn’t respond.

Recap: The delegation met with senior U.S. officials and President Trump, where they discussed major concerns facing the Jewish community, including education, antisemitism, security, Jewish cemeteries in Europe, prisons, and the issue of military conscription in Israel. Vice President J.D. Vance also joined the meeting. In the Oval Office, the rabbis were introduced to President Trump, and the Satmar Rebbe of Kiryas Joel delivered a prayer before raising the issue of giyus. President Trump also spoke about his support for Israel.

The satmar rebbe of Monroe was the only one to have a private meeting for 10 minutes.

The IDF draft gezeiras Giyus was brought up at the meeting with president Trump.

3:50 Meeting concludes Rabbonim leave the West wing of the WH and head back home to the airports. Reports say the Satmar rebbe brothers shook hands and wished mazel tov on a family simcha and a ksiva vachasima Tova.

Trump asked the Stamer rebbes if they are twins, they responded we are brothers.

- Satmar rebbe Rav Aaron recited the Tefillah of Hanosen Teshuah Lemelochim  followed by a Bracha in English by Monroe Askan Gedalya Segedin. Both met privately with Trump in the Oval office for 10 minutes. 

Jared Kushner was in attendance at the meeting. 

Vice president JD Vance met with the delegation and inquired about the different types of Bekitches the rebbes wear someone quipped it depends on what's in the bank account. 

- 3:30 pm Meeting  underway per kol Mevaser interview with Yossi Gestetner. The rabbonim are seating opposite each other on 2 sides of the table. Both Satmar rebbes are sitting on the same side with the Vizhnitz and Skver among others. Opposite them is Rav Malkiel Kotler  sitting closer to the door of the oval office and The Bobover rebbe.

Reporter Jake Turx on kol mevaser said the meeting van go longer based on the questions and conversation set by the president. There's no phones or reporters allowed inside so no information will come out until after the meeting.

- Meeting  with Trump was scheduled to begin at 2:30 pm

- Lakewood Rosh Yeshiva was asked by reporter Jake Turx if he will make the Bracha recited for kings the RY responded that he's not planning to say with Shem Umalchus after he consulted with poskim.

- Reporter Aryeh Ehrlich says the White house staff told the Delegation of Rabbonim not to bring up the IDF military draft and gezeiras giyus with the president following pressure from Jewish and Israeli organizations 

Photos  Admorim visit to Washington (credit to the photographers) 

Credit  JDN

                             White house schedule 

 Tonight the Lakewood township committee will vote to adopt and approve the 2026 Budget.

Lakewood Township’s 2026 introduced municipal budget calls for a major increase in the amount raised from local property taxes, with the municipal tax levy rising from approximately $96.27 million in 2025 to $114.95 million in 2026. That represents an increase of approximately $18.68 million, or 19.4%. 

Township officials blamed the state for cutting municipal aid to Lakewood and blamed FEMA for denying New Jersey emergency relief following this winter’s snowstorms. President Trump, meanwhile, said that states with sanctuary cities would not receive federal funding.

Where is the additional tax money going?

The total 2026 municipal budget is approximately $163.5 million. Major areas of spending include personnel, employee benefits, pensions, public safety, debt and other operating expenses.

Among the biggest costs: Salaries and wages: approximately $55.2 million in regular operating expenses.

Employee group health insurance: approximately $23.4 million after employee contributions, with a gross estimated cost of $24.6 million.

Police salaries: approximately $29.1 million in the regular operating budget, plus another $5.1 million listed in the excluded-cap section.

Police and other pension obligations/statutory costs: approximately $13.6 million across the major retirement and payroll-related lines.

Municipal debt service: approximately $9.73 million.

Landfill disposal: approximately $5.9 million.

How can taxes rise 19.4% when New Jersey has a 2% tax levy cap?

The 2% cap does not apply to every dollar of the municipal tax levy. The budget uses statutory exclusions that can be added outside the normal cap calculation. Lakewood lists approximately $16.9 million in exclusions, including:

$8 million current-year emergencies

$5.70 million  increase in health insurance costs

$2.68 million  debt service/capital leases

$332,833 pension obligation increase

$200,000 recycling tax

The bottom line for taxpayers

The budget shows:

2025 municipal tax levy: $96.27 million

2026 municipal tax levy: $114.95 million

Increase: $18.68 million

Increase: 19.4%

So while the township remains within the state's statutory tax-cap calculation because of the permitted exclusions, the amount of money being raised from taxpayers is nevertheless increasing by nearly one-fifth.

There is also a broader financial concern: in August, the New Jersey Local Finance Board rejected Lakewood's request for a $12.9 million appropriations cap waiver, with board members reportedly questioning the township's reliance on cap waivers and the sustainability of its spending.

The $114.95 million figure is the municipal-purpose tax levy only. It is not the total property-tax bill paid by homeowners, which also includes school, county and other levies.

 In short: Lakewood's 2026 budget is not simply a 2% tax increase. The budget uses nearly $17 million in statutory exclusions most notably $8 million for emergencies and $5.7 million for health insurance to support a municipal tax levy that is approximately 19.4% higher than last year's levy.

How much will taxes go up?

For an average duplex $475k assessed property, that could mean approximately $650 more per year, or about $54 more per month, in municipal taxes alone. The final 2026 budget and tax rate could still change. and thats not including School county and fire taxes.

Property taxes have increased for 5 consecutive years now for just the municipal portion.

An Article in Hamodia dated November 2013 by a Lakewood  Vaad spokesman states, there is no real frustration in the kehilla regarding rising property taxes.. the Vaad is “very pleased that the great vast majority did as was suggested” and dismissed, as “not serious analysis,” the notion that there is real frustration among the kehillah in regard to rising property taxes. He also says that taxes, although nobody likes them, “aren’t going away that’s the way it is. If you don’t pay taxes, you don’t get the services

Chasunas:

Loewi - Zoldan Fountain Ballroom 

Hayum  - Basch Kesser Moshe Yehuda 

Friedman - Raber Lake Terrace 

Strauss  - Burzstyn Bais Faiga

Greenberger - Cohen Ateres Blima

Schenk  - Heller Ateres Esther 

Mir Yerushalayim parlor meeting at Westwood business center  Lakewood  with the R"Y

 Weather: 76 F Cloudy. Intermittent drizzle this morning. High 76F.. Tonight Cloudy this evening with thunderstorms developing after midnight. A few storms may be severe. Low 68F. Chance of rain 70%.

Heat advisory in effect from 11 AM TO 8 PM Thursday Heat index values up to 100 degrees exp.

- Trump administration has rejected New Jersey's appeal of the denial for $84 million in federal disaster aid for the major snowstorm last February. Governor Mikie Sherrill appealed the denial in July, seeking Public Assistance, including snow assistance for 19 counties, and statewide Hazard Mitigation assistance. Lakewood was counting  on this money to pay back for snow (ShlomoSchorr)

 - A Jewish woman screams at NYC Mayor Zohran Mamdani at a Jewish bookstore in Borough Park for “causing antisemitism”: “You’re causing all the antisemitism… I can’t believe you’re in a Jewish store before Rosh Hashanah… Shame on you for coming to Borough Park!”

- Registration opens today for Nshei Adirei HaTorah annual event to take place during Aseres Yemei Teshuva

- New chasidishe girls elementary school opens in Lakewood Bnos Melochim under the leadership of the Lelover rebbe shlita. The school is located off Chestnut street.

- Trump accounts kids up to 10 years old receiving $250 from Michael Dell.into their bank account.

- Sefardi Chief Rabbi the Rishon Letzion Rav David Yosef shlita is in the US and will spend shabbos in Toms River.

- Admor M'Barniv Monsey will be in Lakewood tonight for Kabolas Kahal ahead of Yomim Noraim.

- Today is the first day of school for elementary girls, but some girls are still home without a school placement. The Ner High School is also closed, leaving students home while a vaad works to find placements for everyone. The hope is that all students will be placed within the next few days.

- Bingo has side of salmon for $6.99 pound Side of Scottish salmon for $8.99 pound. BTW the vienese crunch & Jelly rings on sale were out already sunday. (Submitted)

- New Jersey's auto insurance rates are rising 10.46% in 2026, the largest increase of any state in the country, for the second year running"

- LSTA Update Parents expected better service after paying a premium for courtesy busing. While the start of the school year often brings late buses, no-shows, and skipped stops, this year is especially challenging because about 2,600 children opted out of busing and are carpooling instead. This has required route changes and increased traffic, carpool lines, and safety concerns at schools. Hopefully, as routes are adjusted, service will become more reliable.

- Eagle Ridge Update: At last night’s planning meeting, the board approved the first phase of the Eagle Ridge application, which includes 116 residential dwellings plus basements on the golf course. Attorneys noted that when residential development was first proposed, several meetings were packed with residents opposing the project. Now, the meeting is empty. The Fairways senior community HOA submitted a letter supporting the application after reaching an agreement with the developer that includes a tree buffer and 41 acres dedicated to open space. A resident spoke out taking apart the traffic study that was submitted by the developers.

- Lakewood property TAX Incerease. The Township will adopt the 2026 municipal budget tomorrow at the online township meeting.

 Lakewood’s proposed 2026 municipal budget is about $163.5 million, $693,000 (0.43%) higher than 2025. However, the amount expected to come from local property taxes rises from about $97.2 million to $115 million, an increase of roughly 18.2%. For an average duplex  $475k assessed  property, that could mean approximately $650 more per year, or about $54 more per month, in municipal taxes alone. The final 2026 budget and tax rate could still change. and thats not including School county and fire taxes.

Bottom line: Lakewood is proposing a $163.5M municipal budget, financed in part by $114.95M in property taxes, with enormous expenditures 34 million on police/payroll, $23.4M of employee health insurance, and $13.6M of pensions/payroll taxes. The municipal tax levy itself is up about 19.4% from 2025.  The ordinary portion of the municipal levy is subject to the 2% cap, but certain costs lparticularly emergencies, health insurance, pensions and debt service can be added outside that cap. And in Lakewood's 2026 budget, those exclusions are large enough that the municipal levy goes from $96.3M to $115.  million an increase of nearly $18.7M, or 19.4%.

- Update on Gedolim meeting with President Trump at the White House A delegation of prominent Gedolim and Admorim is expected to meet with President Trump at the White House at approximately 12:30 p.m. Among those attending are Rav Malkiel Kotler, both Satmar Rebbes, the Bobover Rebbe,the Vizhnitzer Rebbe of Monsey, and the son of the Skverer Rebbe.The meeting is expected to begin with hakoras hatov to President Trump for all he has done for the Orthodox Jewish community. Reports indicate that the Gedolim are also expected to discuss several pressing issues, including the rise in antisemitism, security for Jewish communities and institutions, frum Yidden in prison, and the draft of bnei yeshiva in Eretz Yisroel, along with other matters affecting the frum community. In preparation for the trip, Bobov has announced an earlier 7:00 a.m. Shacharis, allowing the Rebbe and delegation to daven before departing for Washington, D.C.

- Report: 30 Jews Missin at China-Nepal Border Floods: Around 30 Jews R"L, including two Israelis, are among 4,400 people missing after floods near the China-Nepal border. The Chabad House in Kathmandu is coordinating searches and has dispatched food and medical supplies to areas accessible only by air.

- Lakewood public school over 300 kids lost courtesy busing. Parents are organizing to speak up at the next BOE meeting in 3 weeks.

- Giyus: MK Goldknopf from UTJ outside prison 10 calls for the release of frum draft Dodgers ahead of the yomim Tovim he says they are hungry malnourished and not treated well.

- Mordy's Shteibel getting trailers for now after the shul caught fire.

- NJGOP: These illegal aliens who killed a 9 month old baby and injured innocent citizens were allowed into our country under Joe Biden  and ended up in New Jersey communities. Rather than holding them accountable and ensuring justice is served, Mikie Sherrill is staying silent - and her silence is deafening. New Jersey MUST honor ICE detainers for individuals accused or convicted of these horrific crimes and ensure they are removed from our country.

- The state of New Jersey has asked the Supreme Court today for the ability to shut down prediction markets in the state, teeing up a potential landmark case where the justices could decide if the highly popular but controversial industry can survive in its current form. Today's request is the first time the nationwide legal battle over the legality of prediction sites such as Kalshi and Polymarket U.S. has reached the U.S. Supreme Court.(Onejersey)

- NYC mayor  Mamdani paid a visit today to Boro Park his first since becoming mayor as he toured the frum Jewish stores along 13th Avenue.

- Trump: "Now that we have it under U.S.A. control, should we change the name Hormuz Strait to TRUMP STRAIT??? Like America itself, it would be “hotter” than ever before! Thank you for your attention to this matter. President DONALD J. TRUMP

- Israel says it’s ready to ‘decisively’ strike Iran if attacked during upcoming holidays

- Trump aides, fearing midterm rout, push to keep Iran war ‘quiet’ for now. Vance and Rubio among those said to support keeping conflict contained until after November election, after which heavier US strikes could return  but no decision made

- A US source to the Saudi Al-Hadath channel: Our strikes were preemptive against an Iranian plan to damage undersea cables in the Strait of Hormuz

- Israel Defense Minister Katz: "The greater the economic pressure on Iran, the more likely they are to attack us. They like to attack during Jewish holidays.

- Defense Minister Israel Katz says plans to facilitate the mass emigration of Palestinians from Gaza remain under discussion and have merely been “frozen” by US President Donald Trump,

- Trump: "I’m not trying to force Iran to the bargaining table, as ABC Fake News reported. I couldn’t care less if they sign a worthless, to them, agreement. I like our position now much better, with almost total control of the Hormuz Strait, and their economy totally collapsing. They are just playing out the inevitable. When are the Iranian people going to rise up and fight? President DJT

- Report there's a possibility of Iranians passing through to Lebanon using Lebanese documents at Beirut Airport and at land border crossings. 

- The IDF said it killed a Nukhba company commander in the Mawasi refugee camp in Khan Younis who participated in the attack on Gaza border communities on 7 October 2023. The operation was carried out with the Shin Bet under “Project Nili,” and five additional Hamas militants were injured

Chasunas:

Bromberg  - Neuman Ateres Blima

Zell - Neuberger Cedar Palace 

Shapiro  - Loewi Ateres Esther

Schreiber - Brus Neemas Hachaim 

Gross  - Lifshitz Kesser Moshe Yehuda 

Yoffe  -  Adler Bais Faiga

Grossman - Kirschenbaum Ateres Chaim Elazar

Friedman  - Zelishavsky Fountain Ballroom 

Breger - Honig  Lake Terrace 

- Zahav financial planning event at Beru Hall

- Construction Expo at Lumber Yard Prospect st

- Mordys Shteible Farbreng and Fundraiser

Weather: 88°F Partly cloudy early followed by scattered thunderstorms this afternoon. A few storms may be severe. Chance of rain 60%.

Severe thunderstorms are expected across most of New Jersey Tuesday evening, mainly 5 p.m.–midnight. The biggest threats are 60+ mph damaging winds, large hail, flash flooding, and a few tornadoes. It will also feel very hot and humid, around 90–100°F.

- Update on the Gedolim’s Meeting with President Trump.

Israel Channel 1 is reporting that only one gabbai per Rebbe or Rosh Yeshiva will be permitted to accompany the . The exception is the Satmar Rebbe, Rav Aharon, who has been granted permission to have two gabbaim accompany him. The Gedolim will first meet with members of the administration in the Roosevelt Room. At 2:00 p.m., they are scheduled to meet privately with President Trump without gabbaim. The Satmar Rebbe, Rav Aharon, is reportedly scheduled to have seven minutes of private conversation with President Trump.

- All Lakewood schools will be starting tomorrow as there's a handful of girls still not placed hoping they will all be accented in the next few days.

- First day of busing many routes were not locked  up yet and some buses just didn't show up to the pick up stops.

- New developments in the Jackson crash that killed a 9-month-old boy Yitzchok Rosenberg A" H: Two women will remain in Ocean County Jail as their cases move forward. Investigators say the driver, who had never been licensed, panicked and hit the accelerator instead of the brake, causing the vehicle to strike a mother and her two children.

- Lakewood’s girls’ elementary schools have agreed to postpone registration until Rosh Chodesh Shevat in an effort to reduce the long period of uncertainty and stress families experience while waiting for school placements. Under the new policy, any acceptance or agreement made before Rosh Chodesh Shevat will not be valid. New schools opening for the 2027–28 school year will be allowed to begin registration earlier, on 15 Teves, to give them extra time to organize. 

Will playgroup do the same??

- U.S. Embassy in Israel issues a warning to its citizens: Against the backdrop of tensions in the Middle East, the security situation remains complex, and there is concern about unexpected escalation. American citizens currently in the Middle East should stay alert and prepare for possible flight cancellations, airspace closures, and travel disruptions

- The first day of LSTA busing is underway today, and as expected, there are some delays as drivers get accustomed to their new routes. Some people have been waiting for a while at their stops. This year, there are also a number of routes that have not yet been picked up, resulting in more families turning to carpooling.

- Some high schools and elementary schools have already begun the school year. There is still no clear report on how many girls remain without school placements.

- Trump Meeting With Gedolim As of Tuesday, both Satmar Rebbes have confirmed that they will attend the meeting with Trump. The Vizhnitzer Monsey Rebbe and Bobover Rebbe have also confirmed their attendance, as has Lakewood Rosh Yeshiva Rav Malkiel Kotler shlita. The Skver Rebbe has not yet been confirmed. There is a possibility that he may send his son in his place, although there is reportedly pressure for the Rebbe himself to attend. His personal presence would give the meeting added significance and make it considerably more impactful.

- Lakewood planing board meeting today 6pm watch livestream Here see Agenda Here. On the agenda an application for the Eale Ridge golf course which was initially approved for 512 homes now comes for phase 1 approval for a subdivision create 129 lots at the new "The Parke" development off Cross street. Major infrastructure projects have taken place in order for this  to begin. There fierce opposition when the plan was initially brought to the planning board 5 years  ago

- Chasdei Lev Yom Tov distribution today  for  Lakewood  rebbeim at BlueClaws stadium.

- Congressman Jeff  Van Drew: A baby is dead because of the reckless actions of two illegal aliens who never should have been in this country to begin with. New Jersey needs to do the right thing and turn them over to ICE. No more sanctuary.

- Flood death toll in Nepal rises to over 1,000; 2 Israelis still missing.

- Oil prices rise President Trump is pressing the oil industry on gas prices, meeting with refiners at the White House while pushing for fewer regulations and increased domestic production.

- Trump: Chicago violence is unchecked and at record levels. It has never been worse! This weekend 41 people were shot, 3 DEAD. These numbers are becoming normalized. It is out of control! The city will die if the Federal Government, a fine tuned crime fighting machine, is not invited in, by the Mayor or Governor, to HELP. I am awaiting the call. Nobody should be forced to live under these conditions. Like D.C. and others, they will have almost no crime, FAST! The State and City can’t do what I do. Governor Pritzker, CALL!!! President DONALD J. TRUMP

- California lawmakers pass a bill requiring large companies to disclose historical ties to slavery, sending the measure to Gov. Newsom.

- The victim of Monday's random stabbing attack in New York's Times Square has been identified as 32-year-old New Jersey resident Erin Piacenti A resident of Chester Township who worked in Manhattan as a Bank of America Vice President, was fatally stabbed by a mentally ill woman who was later shot dead by police.

IDF: Following the sirens that sounded a short while ago regarding a hostile aircraft infiltration in several areas in northern Israel, interceptors were launched toward a suspicious aerial target that likely crossed from Lebanon into Israeli territory. The interception results are under review. No injuries were reported.Missile and rocket alerts were activated due to the interception attempts.

- Sirens sound in the north of Israel laye tonight 

- Iran Launches Retaliatory Missile Attack: Iran said it launched a “decisive” retaliatory attack targeting US bases in Jordan while continuing US strikes hit the country. Iranian reports said a US strike hit a wedding venue in Bandar Kuhestak, killing 2 people and wounding several others.

- U.S. Embassy in Israel issues a warning to its citizens: Against the backdrop of tensions in the Middle East, the security situation remains complex, and there is concern about unexpected escalation. American citizens currently in the Middle East should stay alert and prepare for possible flight cancellations, airspace closures, and travel disruptions.

- President Trump announces the U.S. is launching "large and powerful" strikes on Iranian targets near the Strait of Hormuz and warns Tehran that an even bigger attack is "waiting in the wings." "If the failed Nation of Iran retaliates for this very justified attack, they will be hit again at a much harder and higher level, but it will not be the biggest attack of them all, that is waiting in the wings and, when it is over, there will be very little left of the Islamic Republic of Iran!"

- CENTCOM: “Today at 12 p.m. ET, U.S. forces began striking Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) targets in Iran. The strikes follow recent attempted attacks by the IRGC against commercial shipping in the Strait of Hormuz and against American service members deployed to the region.”

- The United States carried out “precise defensive strikes” on sites in Iran’s southern port city of Bandar Abbas, Al Arabiya reported citing a US official. Axios also quoted US officials as saying the US air force is striking targets around the Strait of Hormuz

 - US Unleashing New Attacks On Southern Iran reports of explosions from missiles.

- Iranian Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf said Tehran would respond militarily if the US blockade intensifies. He claimed Iran effectively controls the battlefield and that its missile power cannot be stopped

- Senior Hamas Official Arrested Near His Gaza Home: Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said the Shin Bet and IDF arrested Hamas General Security chief Mueen al-Arabid near his home in Gaza. Netanyahu said he was responsible for concealing and moving hostages, hiding senior Hamas officials, and rebuilding the terrorist organization’s ,.

- Iran offers to revive the June interim deal & vows it will “immediately reciprocate” if U.S. honors its commitments.

- The head of Hamas's internal intelligence mechanism was captured this morning - Mu'in Al-Arabid.

- Trump Reiterates Pledge to Respond Forcefully to Iran: US President Donald Trump shared a Truth Social report quoting his pledge to “respond forcefully” to Iran after renewed exchanges of fire. 

- Reuters: Two Saudi tankers carrying approximately 4 million barrels were hit last night in the Strait of Hormuz, minutes apart, following missile launches from Iran.

- Israel Defense Minister Katz: “A short time ago, a senior Hamas terrorist was captured - and this is our policy: we do not wait for threats, but rather pursue Hamas terrorists, thwart them, and destroy their terror infrastructure. The response to any launch from Gaza will be powerful and clear".

- President Trump is pressing the oil industry on gas prices, meeting with refiners at the White House while pushing for fewer regulations and increased domestic production.

The Litvish Moetzes Gedolei HaTorah in Eretz Yisroel came out with a strong letter opposing the growing trend of Selichos events with musical accompaniment. The Moetzes stressed that the days of Selichos are meant to be a time of teshuvah, charatah, and cheshbon hanefesh as we prepare for the Yemei HaDin, and should not be turned into entertainment or a musical performance. They called on the tzibbur not to participate in, support, or help fund such events, and specifically opposed holding them in shuls and batei medrash. They further stated that tefillos and Hallel should likewise not be held with musical instruments, calling on Klal Yisroel to remain true to the mesorah of our forefathers as we approach the Yemei HaDin.

Hesped during Levaye of Horav Reb Yehoshua Safrin zt"l - Komarna Rebbe by Horav Michoel Sorotzkin A moving hesped delivered during the levayah in Brooklyn on 17 Elul 5786 for Horav Hatzaddik Rav Yehoshua Safrin, zt”l, the Komarna Rebbe of Manhattan. The Rebbe, zt”l, was a towering talmid chacham, distinguished in both Nigleh and Nistar, a scion of an illustrious geza tarshishim, and a man of exceptionally refined middos. His life was marked by an extraordinary devotion to chesed , a true gomel chasadim whose kindness, generosity, and concern for others knew no bounds. In this hesped, tribute is paid to a rare synthesis of Torah greatness, avodah, nobility of character, and selfless concern for every Jew ; qualities that made the Komarna Rebbe, zt”l, beloved and revered by all who had the privilege of knowing him. הספד מרגש שנישא ע"י האב מיכאל סורוצקין במהלך מסע ההלוויה בברוקלין, ביום י״ז באלול תשפ״ו, על הגה״צ רבי יהושע סאפרין זצ״ל, האדמו״ר מקאמארנא-מנהטן. הרבי זצ״ל היה תלמיד חכם מופלג, גדול בתורה בנגלה ובנסתר, נצר לגזע תרשישים, ובעל מידות תרומיות ואצילות נפש נדירה. כל ימיו היו מסכת מופלאה של תורה, עבודה וגמילות חסדים, כאשר לבו וביתו היו פתוחים לכל נצרך, והוא נודע כגומל חסדים שאין שני לו, במסירות, בנדיבות ובדאגה כנה לכל יהודי. בהספד זה מובעת ההערכה לדמות נדירה ששילבה גדלות בתורה, עומק בעבודת ה׳, אצילות המידות ומסירות ללא גבול לזולת, תכונות שבזכותן היה הרבי מקאמארנא זצ״ל אהוב ונערץ על כל מי שזכה להכירו. Ask

Chasunas:

Einhorn - Werner Cedar Palace 

Kranz - Richtman Ateres Esther

Silverman - Yellen Ateres Blima

Eisenberger - Eisenberger Fountain Ballroom

Fisher - Schwartz Neemas hachaim

Hornig - Kovelenko Ateres Chaim Elazar

Blumenkrantz  Lake Terrace 

Shatalova  - Wolf Kesser Moshe Yehuda 

Sharshevsky - Alpert Bais Faiga

Kaufman - Eidelman Ateres Reva 

- Chai Elul fabrengen Toms River

Weather: 69° Cloudy skies early, then off and on rain showers overnight. Low 69F. Winds light and variable. Chance of rain 50%

 Weather: 78° Rain ending this morning. Remaining cloudy  Chance of rain 70%.

New Jersey could get hit with multiple rounds of severe thunderstorms from Tuesday to Thursday. High winds, hail, flash flooding and a few tornadoes are possible.National Weather Service

18 Elul Yartzeitl R'Yehuda Loew, the Maharal (1525-1609). Chief Rav of Prague

- Gas price shoot up by 35 cents average in Lakewood  area now $4.29

- Chasdei Lev Yom Distribution tomorrow afternoon  for Lakewood rebbeim of participating schools, at Blueclaws stadium.

- Please daven for Yonason ben Rus, a Yid from Morocco who had been staying in Monsey and was detained by ICE after encountering issues with his visa and immigration paperwork. He has been placed in the detention center in Newark. Several Yidden have gotten involved and are working to help him, with the hope that the best outcome will be for him to be deported safely back to Morocco and reunited with his family

- There's still an untold amount of girls not placed yet in school, as of now there's no directive from the roshei yeshiva to postpone the start day as was done in previous years.

- Official Post on X by Homeland Security. @DHSgov @6abc news  failed to mention that this "Trenton woman" is an ILLEGAL ALIEN from Guatemala. The media just can't help themselves: they continue to run cover for illegal aliens like this BABY KILLER. 

- Trump  I am pleased to report that the United States Supreme Court has just ruled in favor of the Ballroom/Military Complex being built without any further contingency, doubt, or threat. We are living in the Golden Age of America, and this Building will be one of the Greatest ever constructed in Washington, D.C. When completed in the Summer of 2028, the magnificent Ballroom and Military Complex will be something that the entire Country is very proud of. The Project, despite the baseless lawsuit brought by the so-called National Trust for Historic Preservation of the United States, which is not in any way affiliated with the United States Government, is under budget and ahead of schedule. The Ballroom is totally funded by Great Patriots and Corporations and, therefore, is a Gift — At no cost to the American Taxpayer. Thank you for your attention to this matter! President DONALD J. TRUMP

- MBD releases song ahead of the Yomim Noraim ובטובך הגדול listen Here

- Lakewood Rosh Yeshiva Rav Malkiel Kotler will be attending the meeting with president Trump on Thursday at the White house. The Skver rebbe was invited but has not yet committed to go as he may send his son instead. The Satmar rebbes will be going.

- BDE: Petira of the Biala Ostrov rebbe from Bnei Brak who was hospitalized in Manhattan a few weeks ago. The rebbe was a מתמיד עצום who kept a low profile he was 61. Levaya will take place in E"Y.

- Federal immigration officials have placed immigration detainers on two women involved in a fatal crash in Jackson, Ocean County: ICE plan to seek deportation of both women following the criminal proceedigs. (NJPatch)

- Back to School! A challenging work week is ahead for many parents as girls schools begin the new year. The first few days may include orientation, half days, and early dismissals, making schedules a little more complicated than usual.  Many will  be Carpooling  Finally, LSTA transportation will begin, with adjusted routes serving neighborhoods as the new school year gets underway. Bus passes are available on the LSTA portal.

- Right wing political commentators criticize the upcoming meering with Trump and leading admorim. This is the headline on  social media. Trump to Meet Anti-Zionist Hasidic Rabbis in Oval Office Before Rosh Hashana. The gathering, arranged by White House Jewish liaison Martin Marks, includes rabbis from Satmar, Skver, Bobov, and Vizhnitz, who plan to discuss Israel's military draft of ultra-Orthodox students and New York religious education autonomy. Critics like Laura Loomer and Sid Rosenberg called it a misstep, labeling the rabbis anti-Israel and unfit for the president. Satmar leaders defended the meeting, pointing to their 98 percent support for Trump in Kiryas Joel during the 2024 election and their commitment to his policies as American Jews focused on U.S. issues.

Satmar Headquarters on Twitter responds to Loomer concerns about President Trump inviting Grand Rebbe Rabbi Aron Teitelbaum to meet with him. They argue that the Palm Tree/Kiryas Joel community strongly supports Trump, saying it voted overwhelmingly for him in the last two presidential elections more than any other Jewish community in the country. They encourage people to verify the voting data and say respectful dialogue could promote greater understanding and unity.

- Trump: The only reason that communities throughout the U.S.A. should not want Data Centers is if they want to end up being backwards and poor. If they want to be successful and rich, with far lower taxes and jobs all over the place, let Data Reign. The good news is that there are plenty of other places that want them. If we kill the Golden Goose, you will only have yourselves to blame. China could not be happier with this anti Data Center movement. Actually, they can’t believe it is happening!pp

- Lakewood planning board meeting tommorow The Eagle Ridge golf course application will be heard it was initially approved for 512 homes now The developers come back to present the plans for the the new The Parke development off Cross st to create 129 lots for the initial phase.

- At least thirteen people were injured, including three seriously, after a shuttle bus crashed into a wall at New Jersey's Newark Liberty International Airport. The crash happened outside Terminal B at the departures level early this morning, causing some nearby roadways to be shut down and leading to more than a dozen flight delays.

- Libs of TikTok: Not a single post from Governor Mikie Sherill about a baby who was kiIIed in his stroller by an illegal in her state. Your silence is deafening.

- Yomim Noraim seat reservations deadline in BMG. There will be a new added minyan this year at the Princeton B"M.

- Giyus: Netanyahu: Charedim who don't learn Torah, will be drafted into the military or will go to jail.

- The Manchester mikvah application is headed back to the Zoning Board for a special hearing on November 12, 2026, creating a possible path to a negotiated settlement and approval. Faa 

- LSTA: It has been speculated that Governor Sherrill is out to get Lakewood as a form of revenge for the community’s rejection of her as a gubernatorial candidate. The community voted overwhelmingly against her both in the Democratic primary and in the general election, and some prominent local advocacy groups strongly endorsed her opponents both times. During the primary, some activists urged everyone to become a “Democrat for a day” and vote for Josh Gottheimer, who had no chance of winning. Many believe that this angered Sherrill, and her vindictive actions are a result of that. Mayor Coles says, “I can’t say that for sure. All I can say is that we worked well with the state government for years until this year.”(Lakewood shopper)

- Hatzolas Nefashos held a community event in Jackson yesterday inaugurating new vehicles to their fleet. Rav Henoch Perl shlita of Lakewood was on hand for the ribbon cutting.

- Bobov 45  rebbe paid a visit to Lakewood last night to meet with chasidim ahead of the Yomim Noraim.

- Trump: Governor Kathy Hochul just released 7000 hard core criminals onto the streets on New York. What is wrong with her? She is grossly incompetent and must be voted out of office! President DJT

- Georgian Court University in Lakewood growing class of new students begin Tuesday, September 8, with freshman and transfer enrollment both increasing for the 2026–27 academic year.  The university expects to enroll approximately 2,000 students overall, with particularly strong growth in nursing and continued interest across a range of undergraduate and graduate programs. 

- The Lakewood Fire Department officially accepted delivery of our new 2026 Seagrave 75’ AerialScope Tower Ladder. The apparatus was ordered in 2022 and represents a major investment in the department and the safety of our community. Chief of Department Jonathan Yahr and Board of Fire Commissioners Chairman Yakov Steinberg were on hand to accept delivery and welcome the new truck to the fleet. Cost is about $1.6 million.

- Trump on Iran: We have the Strait of Hormuz in extremely good shape. We've been averaging 30 ships a night. That's a lot.

- President Donald Trump says Washington will respond to Iran’s strikes last night on US forces in Jordan. “We’re going to hit them hard,” Trump tells Fox News. “There will be a response.”

- President Trump tears into the Iranian regime, saying the country "must be tried for war crimes against humanity" as he claims the regime has killed over 100,000 of its own people who acted out against the Islamic Republic. Trump says the country is in "total disarray" and a "failed nation" as he claims Iran is in freefall with soaring inflation and unpaid soldiers and police officers.

- Trump posts video blowing up Kharg Island in Iran: “Kharg Island being blown to smithereens!!! President DJT”

- Israeli airstrikes killed five people in Gaza City,  Israeli military says it targeted terror operatives.

- The Iranian Ministry of Foreign Affairs: "Our forces will not hesitate to exercise their legitimate right to self-defense and will respond appropriately and decisively to any military aggression by the enemy. Full responsibility for the consequences of new aggressive actions by the US and the continuation of the naval siege and economic war against Iran lies with the American regime and all cooperating parties"

- Lebanon’s Army Chief Accused of Backing Hezbollah: He Reportedly Rejected a Plan to Replace UNIFIL and Help Disarm the Terror Group

- Lebanese official source told the Lebanese newspaper Nadia Al-Watan: "What is happening in southern Lebanon is dangerous. No one can stop the advance of the Israelis"

Chasunas:

Stein - Rotberg Bais Faiga

Gruner - Marder Ateres Reva

Herzog  - Brandwein Lake Terrace 

Berger  - Bajnon Cedar Palace 

Kessler - Fruchthandler Kesser Moshe Yehuda 

Kaszirer  - Fink Neemas Hachaim 

Rosen -  Neustadt Ateres Blima 

Solow - Friedman Ateres Esther 

Rawicki  - Mandelbaum Fountain Ballroom 

Marcus  -  Stein Ateres Chaim Elazar 

Admor Spink Toldos Tzvi Kabolas Kahal at the Bais Medrash in Lakewood tonight 

Weather. Cloudy with occasional light rain...mainly this evening. Low 67F. Chance of rain 90%.

- The US military attacked Iranian launchers on Larak Island in the Strait of Hormuz

- Reports of explosions in Jordan near US military  bases following the launches from Iran. 

- ¡Iran’s Revolutionary Guards vow response to US attack on Larak Island. Iran’s Revolutionary Guards say a US attack on Larak Island killed and wounded several Iranian fighters and civilians, and vows to respond and punish those responsible

- 16 Givati soldiers sent to prison for refusing qq0 enter APC with female paramedic.

- The commander of the Hamas brigade that infiltrated Israel on October 7 was eliminated yesterday in the northern Gaza Strip after advancing terror plans in the immediate timeframe

Weather: 84° A mix of clouds and sun this morning followed by increasing clouds with showers developing this afternoon. Chance of rain 40%.

Only 2 Sundays left until Sukkos! Due to the way the calendar falls this year, Rosh Hashanah is on Sunday, Erev Yom Kippur is on Sunday, and Sukkos begins on Shabbos.

-  Giyus: Lakewood Roshei Yeshiva sign new letter calling on a increase in tefilah and to arrange minyanim for Tehillim due to the gezeiras Giyus as there's an uptick in arrests an against bnei Yeshiva. 

"The decree of drafting yeshiva bochurim into the army is hanging over the heads of the Bnei Yeshivos in Eretz Yisroel. They have intensified their persecution against those who devote themselves to Torah the pillars of the world—and seek to uproot Torah learning from the Bnei HaYeshivos and Kollelim. They are trying in every possible way to draft them into the army.

"The Bnei Torah in Eretz Yisroel are presently facing a very difficult situation, both b’ruchniyus and b’gashmiyus. The honor of Torah has been brought down to the dust, and we, the Bnei Torah who are moser nefesh for the honor of Torah, how can we remain silent at such a time? Therefore, we are calling upon every kehillah and every community to gather together to daven, to arrange Tehillim minyanim, and to pour out our hearts and plead before Avinu Shebashamayim, until He has mercy upon us and abolishes the gezeirah of drafting from upon the Bnei HaYeshivos.'

- Shas spiritual leader Rabbi Yitzhak Yosef has attacked National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir, who often visits the Temple Mount in Jerusalem, saying those who go to the Mount may “die in excruciating agony.”

- Libs of TikTok Exclusive report: The driver who kiIIed a 9-month-old baby in Jackson, NJ while driving without a license is an ILLEGAL ALIEN from Guatemala, DHS confirmed to us.

She was RELEASED into our country by the Biden admin in 2023. She received a FINAL ORDER OF REMOVAL just one month ago.

Another woman, Ariadna Lazaro-Flores, is also facing charges for allowing CobonGuzman to drive the car while knowing she didn’t have a license. DHS confirmed to us that’s she’s ALSO here illegally. She came here illegally in 2023 and is a Mexican national.

- Hanochas Even Hapina today at Hampshire Hills Jackson kerala for the new shul 

- State police conducting  traffic enforcement in Lakewood today. In recent days LPD has increased trafic enforcement on the roads.

Giyus: A father traveling to Uman for Rosh Hashana with his wife and child was detained on the way out of Ben Gurion Airport before boarding  as he was listed as a draft dodger.

- BDE: perirah of Rav Elyakim Friedman ZTL Rosh Yeshiva Beer Chaim in Modiin Illit  at the age of 64.

- The 2 women arrested for the death of a frum 9 month old baby in Jackson are citizens of Mexico and Guatemala while federal officials investigate their legal immigration status.

- Back to school:

No word yet if schools won't open in time as there's still girls not placed yet.

LSTA:  official tells The Voice of Lakewood 2600 kids opted out and  roughly 8,000 non-mandated kids signed up at $675  out of 10,600 which is 75 percent of those originally enrolled at $385. That means about 2,600 fewer riders on routes already bid out and finalized; some will need to be redrawn or dropped with a few days left before school starts.

  Capitol seforim is locates at the former post office building Clifton Ave and Main st.

Daily Deals on 2nd street briefcases starting at $5.99

- A מעמד הכתרה will take place this Sunday at Bais .edrash Chayei Yisrael in Lakewood appointing Rav Yitzchok Halevi Horowitz shlita as the Rav ro lead the kerala. The seuda will take place Sunday evening at the shul 11 Gudz Rd in Lakewood

- Trump Shares Post Calling on him To ‘Create Legal Pathway For Jewish Canadians Facing Antisemitism. The article says a Christian lawmakers’ group is urging the U.S. government to create faster, secure immigration pathways for eligible Jewish Canadians and their families, citing growing concerns about antisemitism and safety in Canada.

- Giyus: Charedi Draft Day in the IDF: This morning, Charedi recruits are enlisting in combat tracks with the Chashmonean Brigade, Netzah Yehuda, the Charedi “Chetz” Paratroopers track, and Charedi Border Police units. The IDF expects to enlist more than 500 Charedim in August, around 300 of them in combat roles, an increase compared with last year. The Badatz Eidah Hacharedis called for protests at the recruiting stations.

- Trump: One of the things I am going to do with the Venezuelan Oil is fill up the Strategic National Reserves which, because of Sleepy Joe Biden, has been virtually emptied. The “topping out” process will begin very shortly, and is a Gift from Venezuela to the People of the United States. Thank you! President DONALD J. TRUMP

- Hatzolas Nefashos  community celebration and ribbon cutting event in Jackaon today at 10 Knight Rd 5pm

- Lakewood township  may cut trash removal services from schools and shuls.

Mayor Coles says in an article this weeks Lakewood Shopper, “We have to come up with money to cover the services that we are legally obligated to provide. We also really want to have money for expenses that we aren’t legally obligated to provide, such as the grant we give to the LSTA, but we cannot do that at this time.”

He adds that there are other non-obligated expenses that may have to be cut as well. One example is the township trash removal service provided free of charge to schools and shuls. While the township is not legally obligated to provide this service, they have always done so. This currently costs about $3.5 million a year. If no source of relief is found, this may be cut out of the budget as well

Nichum Aveilim:

Shiva for RavAaron Gertz Z"L is at 62 Birch st Lakewood Shachris 8am,Mincha 6pm,Maariv 9pm getting up Tuesday 

Shiva for Rebbetzin Frieda Fried A"H is at 425 Monticello Ln Lakewood In Enclave Shachris 8am, Mincha 7pm, Maariv 9pm getting up Tuesday 

- Shiva for Hayalda Chaya Herz A"H is at 156 Vintage circle shachris 8:50 am,Mincha 1:45pm, Maariv 9pm getting up Wed morning 

-  Update on  Gedolim meeting with Trump it is part of an outreach effort to the Jewish community ahead of the midterms.

As of now no gabboim will be allowed inside and the list ofbthe admiring who will attend is not finalized.

The Satmar Rebbe Rav Aaron addressed his talmidim at a tish on Motzaei Shabbos in Kiryas Yoel regarding the invitation he received from the White House to meet with President Donald Trump this Thursday. The Rebbe explained that he initially considered postponing the meeting because it is Elul and preparing for the Yomim Noraim. He emphasized that, in his view, the Torah learning of the talmidim in yeshivah is more important than the political meeting.

Nevertheless, he ultimately decided to accept the invitation after remembering a similar meeting approximately 30 years ago, through which it was possible to help a Yid who was in distress. The Rebbe noted that there are Yidden today who also need assistance, including regarding the issue of the draft of bnei yeshivos in Eretz Yisroel. At the end, the Rebbe asked the bochurim not to focus too much on the meeting, but rather to continue with their seder and remain focused on their Torah learning.

- The Canadian Broadcasting Corporation reversed controversial guidance Friday that had instructed its journalists not to directly describe the Sept. 11, 2001, attacks as terrorism, backing away from the policy after it drew sharp condemnation from political and U.S. officials.

- Death toll nears 800, 3,000 still missing in Nepal-Tibet flooding

- Two people were killed and nine injured early Sunday around 12:25 a.m. on the 100 block of Locust Street in Trenton, New Ners5 during a large unauthorized gathering of about 200 people. Police found 11 gunshot victims; the wounded are at Capital Health Regional Medical Center. No suspects or motive released yet.

BDE' Petira of The Komarna Rebbe of America, Rav Yehoshua Safrin ZTL at the age of 91. Levaya Sunday 11 am at shomrei hadas in boro park and kevura on har hazeisim. The rebbe was one of the last talmidim of Rav Reuven Grozovsky in Beis Medrash Elyon and was a great talmid chacham in his own right.

- Tonight Motzei shabbos there will be a community wide event with divrei chizuk at Neemas Hachaim hall a hachama for the Yom Hadin. 9:45pm  by Rav Yosef Elefant shlita of Mir Yerushalayim 

- Continued tefillos  for Golda Chana bas Leah Shaindel and her 5 year daughter Rochel bas Golda Chana who are in stable condition after they were hit by a  car on Erev shabbos in parking lot in front of NPGS Jackson, driven by unlicensed driver. 8 month old baby Yitzchok Rosenberg A"H who was niftar at the scene had a levaya right before shabbos 

Jackson: Police charge driver with .manslaughter  charges and arrested another. Prosecuters said 20-year-old Maria CobonGuzman was driving a Ford Fusion when she hit the baby’s stroller and the baby’s mother. The baby died, while the mother and her 5-year-old daughter were hospitalized in stable condition. CobonGuzman, who investigators say had never held a driver’s license, was charged with manslaughter and other offenses. A second woman, 22-year-old Ariadna Lazaro-Flores, was charged with allowing CobonGuzman to drive despite knowing she was unlicensed. Both women are being held at Ocean County Jail pending detention hearings.

- A few days before girls schools begin there's still an untold amount of girls not placed both in elementary and high school. In previous years Lakewood roshei  yeshiva would tell schools not to open until everyone was placed.  As of now no such order has been given with schools having orientation on Monday.

- Selichos begin next motzei shabbos

- Rabbi Yitzhak Yosef called Attorney General Gali Baharav-Miara “crazy” over her concerns about election campaigning at Rabbi Ovadia Yosef memorial ceremonies. He said, “This will not pass quietly. God will give her the punishment she deserves” and “God will destroy her.

- NBC News crew reportedly beaten with clubs by Israeli settlers in the West Bank, leaving five journalists injured and their 

- Dozens of  yiddin demonstrated on Shabbs in Yerushalayim tzfas and Bnei Brak as buses drove in to the lots before  shabbos is over.

- Update scheduled for  this Thursday: Report: Roshei Yeshiva and Chasidishe rebbes to meet with president Trump. The report says that a group of Admorim and Roshei Yeshiva will be received by President Trump at the White House. They will use the opportunity to advocate for various matters and to thank the president for all the benefits enjoyed by the frum Jewish community. In recent days, the logistical details of the historic visit, which is expected to take place next week, have been worked out. Those reportedly invited include the Satmar Rebbes, the Skverer Rebbe, the Bobover Rebbe, the Bobov-45 Rebbe, the Vizhnitzer Rebbe of Monsey, Rabbi Malkiel Kotler, rosh yeshiva of Beth Medrash Govoha Lakewood, and others. 

- Media coverage of the LSTA crisis raises serious questions about possible political retribution against Lakewood by Governor Sherrill’s administration. Lakewood voters overwhelmingly voted against Sherrill in both the primary and general elections, and since then, the State has taken actions that have made it increasingly difficult for Lakewood officials to secure alternative sources of funding.

Lakewood officials have therefore questioned whether the State is deliberately restricting the Township’s options because of its political opposition to the Governor. While there is not yet proof that Sherrill personally ordered these actions as retaliation, the repeated state decisions that have blocked or limited Lakewood’s efforts to obtain alternative funding raise legitimate concerns about whether political considerations are involved.

השקיפה ממעון קדשך מן השמים וברך את עמך את ישראל  ואת האדמה אשר נתתה לנו כאשר נשבעת לאבתינו ארץ זבת חלב ודבש

Friday, August 28, 2026 / ט״ו אלול תשפ״ו

ערב שבת פרשת כי תבוא

- Candle lighting 7:16 pm

- Shkia 7:34 pm

Weather Shabbos day Hi 80° Partly cloudy 

הקטן יהיה לאלף והצעיר לגוי עצום אני ה' בעתה אחישנה

(הפטרה פרשת כי תבוא)

The smallest shall become a thousand, and the least a mighty nation; I the lord will hasten it in its time.

סנהדרין צח: ריב"ל רמי כתיב בעתה וכתיב אחישנה. זכו- 

אחישנה, לא זכו- בעתה

Friday, August 28, 2026 / ט״ו אלול תשפ״ו

ערב שבת פרשת כי תבוא

Candle lighting 7:16 pm

Shkia 7:34 pm

Weather: 81° Isolated thunderstorms this morning, then mainly cloudy during the afternoon with thunderstorms likely. Storms may contain strong gusty winds. Chance of rain 60%

Shabbos day Hi  80° Partly cloudy

Mazel Tov there's over 70 Shabbos sheva Brachos taking place this week in the Lakewood area.

- Trump: BREAKING NEWS: The United States of America has just entered into an Agreement with the Country of Venezuela on, THE BIGGEST OIL DEAL IN WORLD HISTORY! At my direction, Secretary of State Marco Rubio, and Secretary of War Pete Hegseth, working closely with Highly Respected Interim President of Venezuela, Delcy Rodriguez, and, through a partnership with private business, have secured majority U.S. control of more than 65 BILLION BARRELS of proven Oil Reserves in Venezuela, at no cost to the American Taxpayer. This Historic Transaction MORE THAN DOUBLES American Oil Reserves, greatly increases our Oil Supply, and will substantially lower Gas Prices for all Americans, long into the future, while helping to continue to set Venezuela on a course toward Tremendous Success and Great Prosperity. This Transaction will greatly strengthen the already growing relationship between Venezuela and the United States! Thank you for your attention to this groundbreaking matter. MAKE AMERICA GREAT AGAIN! President DONALD J. TRUMP

- Update Levaya of Hayeled Yitzchok Rosenberg Z"L 8 month old son of R' Pinchos and Golda Chana shkita is today erev shabbos 5:45 pm at the Lakewood  Bais Olam.

Grandson of R' Sruly Rosenberg shlita of Lakewood. 

PSA: Remeber to pick up school uniforms from cleaners some stores not open Sunday 

- Report: Roshei Yeshiva and Chasidishe rebbes to meet with president Trump. The report says that a group of Admorim and Roshei Yeshiva will be received by President Trump at the White House. They will use the opportunity to advocate for various matters and to thank the president for all the benefits enjoyed by the frum Jewish community. In recent days, the logistical details of the historic visit, which is expected to take place next week, have been worked out.

Those reportedly invited include the Satmar Rebbes, the Skverer Rebbe, the Bobover Rebbe, the Bobov-45 Rebbe, the Vizhnitzer Rebbe of Monsey, Rabbi Malkiel Kotler, rosh yeshiva of Beth Medrash Govoha Lakewood, and others. 

- Jackson Update: : Belaaz news reports  that per initial investigation, a woman driver, appears to have pressed the gas pedal instead of the brake as the mother and children were entering the store, causing the vehicle to strike them. The mother and daughter are both said to be in serious condition, with fractured bones.

- Governor Sherrill Signs Legislation Allowing Sale and Delivery of “To Go” Alcoholic Beverages.

- President Trump announces American astronauts will return to the lunar surface before the end of his term and plant a flag at the site of what he calls the first permanent American settlement on the moon. “They’re building a settlement up in the moon, and we’re not going to stop there

- BDE: Petira of 8 month old baby Yitzchok Z"L after he was struck by a car in Jackson  shopping plaza Parking lot. His mother and sister are hospitalized in stable stable condition. More details TBA per Balaaz news. Names for Tehilim Golda Chana bas Leah Shaindel and her daughtet Rochel bas Golda Chana.

- LSTA: Article in Lakewood shopper this week quotes Sources that no new money was found and no solution was discovered. However, once it became obvious that parents could or would not pay the $985 fee, the LSTA and askanim concluded that they would have to charge a lower fee that would cover their expenses to start the year and then to operate on a deficit, with the hope that either state money will materialize or the lawsuit against FEMA will succeed and that money will be passed on for busing.(Lakewood Shopper)

- Tehillim please daven for  a mother Golda Chana bas Leah Shaindel and her children Yitzchok ben Golda Chana,  Rochel bas Golda Chana

 Three Pedestrians were hit by a car at a parking lot near NPGS in Jackson today noon tine. One in critical condition 2 others hospitalized in stable condition. 

Update 8 month old  baby Yitzchok Z"L Passed away R"L

- שבת של מיר:  Rav Yosef Elefant shlita will be spending shabbos in Lakewood on behalf of the Mir Yeshiva Yerushalayim. He will be in the areas of Albert friday night,  Arlington  for shachris, a shmuez in somerset walk and Mincha at the Woods. On Motzei shabbos there will be a community wide event with divrei chizuk at Neemas Hachaim hall a hachama for the Yom Hadin. 9:45pm

- Selichos for Ashkenazim begins Next Motzei Shabbo

- Yom tov sale going on now at Bingo/Mesamchei Lev thru Sept 5

- A מעמד הכתרה will take place this Sunday at Bais .edrash Chayei Yisrael in Lakewood  appointing Rav Yitzchok Halevi Horowitz shlita as the Rav ro lead the kerala. The seuda will take place Sunday evening at the shul 11 Gudz Rd in Lakewood.

- A federal judge once again blocks President Trump's executive order limiting mail voting.

- The self serve Kosher sourdough Pizza vending machine at Lakewood Exxon to be operational soon.

- The White House is preparing for a potentially massive midterm campaign swing, with Trump expected to spend serious time in the most competitive states and districts.

- Swastikas were found  painted in the children’s play area at Governors Park in the Coventry neighborhood of Lakewood yesterday,police are investigating.

- LSTA: A few days before school transportation begins there's still areas where routes have not yet. Een picked up by bus companies.

- LPD has ramped up traffic enforcement around Lakewood.

- Trump to give U.S. farmers & ranchers the right to process their own food, targeting what he calls a “nasty monopoly” among major processors.

 - NYT: Trump is expected to miss the national memorial ceremony for the September 11 attacks at Ground Zero in Manhattan for a second consecutive year. Instead, Trump is expected to participate in events at the Pentagon this time as well. One of the reasons is that Trump wants to give a speech, and the main ceremony at Ground Zero prohibits speeches by politicians

- Some progress was made placing girls into high schools while there's still an untold amount still not placed.

- BDE: Petirah of R' Pesach Krishevsky Z"L the famous Yerushalmi Drummer "Poiker" at the age of 90. He survived a terrorist  car ramming in Geuka on Malchei Yisroel street 11 years ago.

- Israel elections Bezalel Smotrich’s Religious Zionism and Moshe Feiglin’s Zehut are in advanced merger talks. Feiglin is reportedly demanding an alternating-candidate arrangement on the joint electoral list. Likud Criticizes Ben-Gvir for Rejecting  alliance with Smotritz risking right-wing votes by refusing to unite with Religious Zionism ahead of the election. The party urged him to overcome personal considerations and show maturity and responsibility.

- Death toll in Nepal rises to over 550 after mudslides.

- 50,000 at the kosel last night for Selichos

A cassette recording of the shiur delivered by Rav Shneur Kotler shlita this week at BMG for those who use a tape recorder  The Rish Yeahi a Rav Yeruchom Olshin shlita listenes tobshiiurim in a "walkman" device.(photo credit M Weisberg)

    (הרה"ג רבי יהודה לב בעמח"ס לב המועדים (דרשו

                                  אמירת מזמור "לדוד ה' אורי וישעי"

חודש אלול הוא חודש הרחמים והסליחות וימים אלו מיוחדים לעשיית תשובה (טור תקפא), והטעם: משום שבו ביום עלה משה רבינו למרום לקבל לוחות אחרונות, ונשתהה שם ארבעים יום וירד בעשירי בתשרי, שהיה אז גמר כפרה, ומן אז הוקדשו ימים אלו לימי רצון, ויום העשירי בתשרי – ליו"כ (טור שם לבוש שם א, קצוש"ע קכח א).

ימים שבהם חל ר"ח אלול

לעולם ראש חודש אלול הוא ב' ימים, ואינו חל כי אם באחד מימות השבוע וסימנך אבד"ו, וקביעת יום א' דר"ה ביום שאחריו וסימנך בגה"ז. והטעם דהוי ב' ימים: לפי שאנו צריכים לעשות החודשים אחד מלא ואחד חסר, הסכימו קדמונינו לעשות לעולם החודש שהוא חשוב יותר-מלא, וקראהו החדשים מלכים (מטה אפרים תקפא ס"ק ד, אלף המגן שם ח, עיין לבוש תכח).

הטעם שנקרא חודש 'אלול'

לפי ש'אלול' משמעותו חיפוש, וכמו שתרגם אונקלוס את הפסוק "ויתרו את הארץ" – "ויאללון ית ארעא" (אונקלוס במדבר י"ג, ב'). דהיינו שבחודש זה אנו מחפשים אחר עוונותינו על מנת לחזור בתשובה כמו שנאמר (איכה ג', מ'): "נחפשה דרכנו ונחקורה ונשובה עד ה'" (תולדות האדם פרשת כי תבוא בשם מהרח"ו ז"ל).

דורשי רשימות אמרו: 'אלול' ראשי תיבות: אני לדודי ודודי לי (שיר השירים ו', ג'). שהוא רמז לתפילה שהיא 'רינת דודים', וסופי תיבות ד' יודים שהם ארבעים כנגד ארבעים יום עד יום כיפור (ב"ח תקפא ס"ק ב). כמו"כ ראשי תיבות: "איש לרעהו ומתנות לאביונים" (אסתר ט', כ"ב), והוא רמז להרבות בימים אלו בצדקה ובמתנות לאביונים ובגמילות חסדים בין איש לרעהו (א"ר תקפא, א).

ועוד ראשי תיבות: "ומל ה' את לבבך ואת לבב זרעך" (דברים ל', ו'), שהחודש הזה הוא זמן המסוגל ל'מילת הלב' שזו תשובה (בעל הטורים דברים ל, ו). ומוסיף השל"ה: "ומסתבר, מאחר שהוא החודש האחרון בשנה עושים בו תשובה על מה שפגם כל השנה" (ריש מסכת ר"ה).

'אלול' ראשי תיבות: "אשר לא צדה והאלקים אנה לידו ושמתי לך" (שמות כ"א, י"ג), ביאור, שאף השוגג צריך תשובה וכפרה בימים אלו, והם לו כמפלט היחידי להינצל.

ופסוקים אלו רומזים לשלשה דברים שהם: תשובה, תפילה וצדקה, שצרכים להזדרז בהם בחודש זה, "ומל ה'" – רומז לתשובה, "אני לדודי" – רומז לתפילה שהיא רינת דודים, "איש לרעהו ומתנות לאביונים" – רומז לצדקה (קיצור שולחן עורך קכח, א).

אמירת "לדוד ה' אורי וישעי"

"לדוד ה'": נהגו בני אשכנז לומר בתפילת שחרית וערבית מזמור "לדוד ה' אורי וישעי" (תהילים כ"ז, א'), ונוסח ספרד נהגו לאמרו בתפילת מנחה אחרי "עלינו לשבח" (מטה אפרים תקפא ס"ק ו, קצוש"ע קכח ב). יש שנהגו שלא לאומרו (הנהגות מהרש"א, מעשה ר"ב נ"ג)

וכן מנהג הגר"א, ונראה שהטעם משום טירחא דציבורא, וכמו שמצאנו בברכות (י"ב, ב) משום ביטול מלאכה, וכן במגילה (כ"א, א) שאין מוסיפים קרואים ביום שמותרים במלאכה, משום ביטול מלאכה (תפלה לדוד לבעל האדר"ת). וכן מנהג בני ספרד.

יש שנהגו לאומרו רק בתפילת שחרית, ואין אומרים בתפילת ערבית.

תחילת אמירתו: יש שמתחילים מיום א' (ספר תניא), ומנהגינו להתחיל ביום ב' דר"ח (קצוש"ע קכח ב). עד מתי אומרים זאת: עד שמיני עצרת (מטה אפרים תקפא ס"ק ו, ומשנ"ב שם ס"ק ב). ומנהג ליטא שבשמיני עצרת עצמו לא אומרים זאת (וכן נהג החזו"א), ויש שנהגו לאומרו אף בשמיני עצרת (קהילות חסידים בא"י, ליקוטי מהרי"ח).

הטעם באמירת מזמור זה:

ע"פ המדרש 'שוחר טוב', (תהילים כז פיס' ד) "אורי" – זה ר"ה, "ישעי" ["ישעי" מלשון ישועה, יום של סליחה וכפרה, יום של כפרת עונות, יום שאין השטן משטין ומקטרג לזה קוראים 'ישועה גדולה'] – זה יו"כ, "כי יצפנני בסוכה" –  זה סוכות (אלף למטה תקפא סק"ו).

יש שדחו טעם זה, והטעם דאטו כל הפסוקים בתנ"ך שנדרשים על ראש השנה ויו"כ יקבעו בסידור, לומר את כל המזמורים פעמיים ביום (ר' אברהם דוד לאוואיט בספרו שער הכולל).

טעם אחר: לפי שבמזמור זה יש י"ג שמות הויה, שהם כנגד י"ג מידות של רחמים, שהם מאירים בימים אלו (בפנים יפות בפרשת אחרי מות ויקרא טז כא בתוד"ה וכתב).

טעם אחר: דאמרינן בתענית (ח', ב) דאין לבקש על שני דברים כאחד דאינו נענה אפילו על אחת מהם, וקשה שהרי בר"ה ויו"כ מבקשים כמה בקשות, אך ביאור הענין: לפי שכל הבקשות כוונתן לדבר אחד: לעבודת ה', שלא תהיה שום מניעה בעבודת ה', וזה שאמר דוד המלך: אע"פ שבקשתי הרבה בקשות, אחת היא, אחת שאלתי מאת ה' ולא יותר: "שבתי בבית ה' כל ימי חיי", ולפיכך אמרינן אותו בחודש אלול ותשרי, שאז אנו מבקשים מהשי"ת הרבה בקשות, ובכך שאומרים "לדוד ה' אורי" ובו הפסוק "אחת שאלתי מאת ה'", מגלים אנו דעתנו שבקשתינו אחת היא, וכדאי שתתמלא (ספר שארית מנחם מהרה"ק מוישווא עפ"י פירושו של הפנים יפות על הפסוק אחת שאלתי).

טעם אחר: במזמור זה נאמר בפסוק י"ג: "לולא האמנתי וכו'", 'לולא' אותיות אלול (אוצר כמ"י סימן ס).

במזמור זה נאמר: "אם תקום עלי מלחמה בזאת אני בוטח". "זאת" בגמטריה 408, כמנין צום, קול, ממון, שהם תשובה, תפילה וצדקה, אשר בכוחם להעביר את רוע הגזירה, כנאמר בתפילות הימים הנוראים (הליכות עולם סימן תקפא סעיף י).

מקום אמירתו: ישנם מנהגים רבים היכן לומר פרק זה בתפילה:

שחרית: יש שאומרים אחרי חזרת הש"ץ ותחנון קודם חצי קדיש, ויש אומרים: אחר חצי קדיש (קצה המטה תקפא ס"ק טז), והטעם: לפי שטעם אמירת מזמור זה לפי שיש בו כוונת י"ג מידות של רחמים ולכן יש בו י"ג שמות הוי"ה, לכן אומרים זאת אחר שמו"ע, כמו שאנו אומרים בכל השנה י"ג מידות אחר שמו"ע (משמרת שלום תקפא א ג), טעם אחר: כדי שלא להרבות בקדישים.

אחרי שיר של יום (משנ"ב תקפא ס"ק ב) ובר"ח ובשבת אומרים אחר תפילת שחרית, יחד עם שיר של יום של שבת ור"ח, והטעם שנאמר אחרי שיר של יום: לפי שתדיר ואינו תדיר תדיר קודם (מטה אפרים תקפא ס"ק ו).

בדיניו: יש לומר קדיש בין שיר של יום לדוד ה', והטעם: כדי שלא יראה שגם "לדוד ה'" הוא חלק משיר של יום (מטה אפרים תקפא ס"ק ו, משנ"ב שם ס"ק ב).

אחר עלינו לשבח אחר תקיעת שופר: בנוסח ספרד ש'עלינו' הוא סיום התפילה – אומרים אותו אחר 'עלינו', והטעם: כדי להסמיכו לתקיעת שופר (קצה המטה תקפא ס"ק טז), ומנהג אשכנז אחרי "קווה אל ה'" ונראה שהטעם כלעיל.

קדיש אחר "לדוד ה'": יש שנהגו שלא לומר קדיש אחר "לדוד", והטעם: כדי לא להרבות בקדישים (הערה שעל פסקי סידור הרב).

ביום שמתפללים מוסף: נוסח ספרד שאומרים שיר של יום אחר שחרית, אומרים "לדוד" אחר גמר תפילת שחרית, קודם "אין כמוך" או "אתה הראת", ומקדים שיר של יום מפני שתדיר ואינו תדיר תדיר קודם (מטה אפרים תקפא ס"ק ו).

מנחה: (מטה אפרים תקפא ס"ק ז, משנ"ב שם ס"ק ב) י"א לפני 'עלינו לשבח', והטעם: כדי לא להרבות בקדישים, וי"א אחר 'עלינו'. והטעם: נראה לומר משום תדיר ואינו תדיר תדיר קודם (חיי משה תקפא כ).

מעריב: אחרי עלינו לשבח (אלף המגן תקפא ו) ומנהג הגאון לא לומר בערבית כלל.

קדיש בתרא: יש אומרים שיאמרו אחר אמירת לדוד ה', והטעם: לפי שברכו נתקן למאחרים לבוא לכן כל מה שאפשר לאחר אמירתו מאחרים (הגרח"ק בשם החזו"א הובא באורחות רבנו ח"ב ר"ה עמ' קסה).

ומנהגינו: לומר ברכו אחר עלינו לשבח, והטעם: להראות שאמירת לדוד ה' היא הוספה מיוחדת (דברי יוסף עמ' קפא בשם הגר"ש דבליצקי).

בסגולותיו:

כל האומרו מר"ח אלול עד שמחת תורה מבטל אפי' גזרה קשה ביותר שיש על האדם (מובא בשם הארי ז"ל).

עוד בסגולותיו: ראוי לומר מזמור זה והוא סגולה לשמירה ולהצלחה ואפילו כל השנה יש חשיבות לאומרו (מורה באצבע לחיד"א לו, קצה המטה על מטה אפרים תקפא).

כאן כיון שהוי רק מנהג בעלמא אין בזה שום פסול לא בשופר ולא בתקיעות.

הקדמונים נתנו סימן "אריה שאג מי לא ירא" (עמוס ג, ח) אריה ר"ת אלול: ראש השנה, יום כיפור, הושענה רבה, שהם ימים של רחמים וימי רצון (קיצור של"ה מסכת ר"ה).

Chasunas:

Rogovsky - Kaufman Bais Faiga

Metzger - Ungar Fountain Ballroom 

Biron  - Feder Ateres Blima

Busel - Weiss Kesser Moshe Yehuda 

Gorelick - Marmorstein  Ateres Reva 

Adler - Klatzko Ateres Esther

Goldman  - Newhouse Neemas Hachaim 

Saalkind - Schonfeld Cedar Palace

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

 Weather: 82° chance of some strong thunderstorms. Storms may contain strong gusty winds. Chance of rain 60%

Severe thunderstorms, high winds, flooding rains expected to slam state today. Flood watch issued for fhe area until 8pm

-  LPD Traffic Alert: Joe Parker Rd will be closed from Lanes Mill RD to Long Beach Rd for planned construction. Plan alternate route if possible.

- The Public Health Committee approved the proposed H+H–Maimonides merger despite strong opposition. However, the merger is not final, and the fight to stop it continues

- President Donald Trump signs order renaming Lake Ontario to "Lake America," effective immediately.

- More than 40 Orthodox synagogues, or shuls, are serving Toms River's growing Orthodox Jewish population, per APP

- Eagle Ridge application to be heard at the Lakewood planing board next week. The former golf course property of 60 acres  has been approved for 512 residential homes the Parke application is for a subdivision to create 129 lots

 SD 2667 The Parke at Lakewood, LLC 688, 752 Cross Street & 2 Augusta Blvd Block 524; 524.23, Lots 1, 2.03, 77.02; 1 Preliminary and Final Major Subdivision to create 129 lots.

- With school uniform season here and the long lines at stores, there are two new stores to check out! Fraylich Uniforms has opened another location off Locust Street, and Pretty Pleats is now open at the Junee’s location on Route 9 South.

- NJ Gov Sherrill: Today, I’m signing legislation requiring data centers to report their energy and water use to the Board of Public Utilities every six months. Here in New Jersey, we're not going to let these developers operate in the shadows

- USPS confirms their new requirements for mail-in voting is officially in effect and applies immediately to the November 2026 election, after an activist judge DISSOLVED her block on Trump's order

- After visiting Lakewood, Crown Heights, and New Square in recent days, youtuber  Tyler Oliveira is now in Boro Park, knocking on doors and attempting to speak with residents. Askanim are urging residents not to engage with him in any way and to simply ignore him BP24

Nichum Aveilim:

Shiva for RavAaron Gertz Z"L is at 62 Birch st Lakewood Shachris 8am,Mincha 6pm,Maariv 9pm getting up Tuesday 

Shiva for Rebbetzin Frieda Fried A"H is at 425 Monticello Ln Lakewood In Enclave Shachris 8am, Mincha 7pm, Maariv 9pm getting up Tuesday 

- Assemblyman Avi Schnall sponsors a bill that requires the State to bear a partial cost of the transportation of certain homeless students to school and for the State to pay the amount above the average student cost.

After LSTA raises price of courtesy busing to $700 per child the Lakewood BOE says they will no longer provide free courtesy transportation to non mandated public school kids due to funding cuts from Lakewood township.

-PR: A  Large Turnout at Lakewood Property Tax Relief Filing Event Over 130 additional Lakewood area residents are now on the path to receive property tax relief for 2026, following their successful filing at the special ANCHOR event held Sunday at the Westwood office complex, near the Lakewood-Toms River border. The ANCHOR and related Senior Freeze and Stay NJ programs offer benefits up to $700 for renters; up to $1,500 for homeowners age 64 and under; and can run as high as $6,500 for senior homeowners. This event was hosted by the C.A.R.E.S. organization; and co-sponsored by Lakewood Township, and other business and non-profit partners. 

- The Canadian Broadcasting Corporation orders journalists not to refer to the 9/11 attacks as “terrorist attacks

- An Ocean County man was killed Wednesday evening in a three-vehicle crash on I-195.State troopers responded to the crash around 9:01 p.m. on eastbound I-195 in Jackson Township, officials said Thursday. William Wright, 73, of Brick, was driving a Ford SUV eastbound when he lost control of his vehicle and struck a second Ford SUV and then collided with a Toyota SUV. Both Ford vehicles overturned near milepost 23.6 during the collision. Wright died from injuries sustained in the crash.

Video: Sefardi Selichos hosted at the Belz Bais Medrash in Yerushalayim with the Tzohar virus organization

- The Trump administration has told mediators it won't return to a June memorandum with Iran, which sought to reopen the Strait of Hormuz, start nuclear talks, and ease sanctions in exchange for steps to end regional conflicts. Iran demands full U.S. compliance first, including sanctions relief, access to frozen funds, $300 billion in reparations, and an end to wars in Lebanon and Gaza before proceeding. Mediators from Qatar, Oman, and Pakistan held high-level talks in Tehran this week, but both sides remain firm, with the U.S. opting for tighter sanctions and no new negotiations planned.

- The IDF eliminated a Hamas commander who took part in holding Edan Alexander, Matan Zangauker, and Avera Mengistu hostage in the Gaza Strip

- Trump posts about Iran : “ Mission accomplished 2026”

- President Trump posts that, according to a USAID report, more than 100 UNRWA employees participated in the October 7 massacre.

- British Times: President Trump threatened the British Prime Minister - "If you impose sanctions on Israeli settlements, including products from the settlements, this will open a trade war"

- During an assessment with the Israel Defense Forces, Defense Minister Katz stated: 'The deadline we set has expired. From now on, any launch of balloons or kites from Gaza towards southern Israeli communities will be met with a severe response.'"

- Bloomberg: US plans to revive a Civil War-era court to seize Iranian oil as war booty. The US Department of Justice is preparing to reactivate a dormant maritime legal mechanism that has been inactive for decades to streamline the military's seizure of Iranian oil tankers and their declaration as US war booty.

- The White House says the Iranian regime is already reeling, and President Trump is pulling "every economic lever" to increase the pressure. Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt says inflation in Iran is above 100% and the regime is struggling to pay its police and military, while also dealing with the damage inflicted during Operation Epic Fury. Trump's goal, she says, remains unchanged: making sure Iran "can never obtain a nuclear weapon, period."

- In response to the drone launch - the IDF began attacking in Lebanon

- IDF Spokesperson: During the night, the terrorist organization Hezbollah launched two explosive drones at IDF forces operating in the Ali Taar ridge area within the security zone in southern Lebanon. IDF soldiers shot down one of the drones, and contact was lost with the second drone. Our forces suffered no casualties. The IDF will not allow the terrorist organization Hezbollah to operate against IDF forces in the security zone. The IDF is currently acting and will continue to act with force against its repeated attempts to harm IDF forces.

- Israel is considering expelling British officials from the US-led coordination center for postwar Gaza, the Financial Times reported Thursday, amid a growing spat over the expansion of Israel’s controversial E1 settlements plan.

- IDF Says More Than 400 Hezbollah Sites Destroyed: The IDF said Golani Brigade troops under Division 36 destroyed more than 400 terrorist infrastructure sites and numerous weapons in southern Lebanon in recent weeks. The targets included anti-tank missiles, anti-aircraft missiles, explosives, Kalashnikov rifles and mortar shells.

- Revolutionary Guards: Iran and Oman have reached an agreement on the Strait of Hormuz. The US must accept our conditions for it to be opened.

- Head of the Iranian Nuclear Department for the State Media: Iran is still in a state of war. The necessary security conditions have not been created to allow inspections at nuclear sites. The IAEA cannot demand inspections until a mutually agreed procedure for this is established.

-  Treasury Sec Bessent  announced sanctions on the following Islamist and far-left terror groups

 Palestine Action, a United Kingdom group

 Masar Badil, which operates as a front for the Popular Front for the Liberation of Palestine, a designated Foreign Terrorist Organization

Autistici Inventati, an Italy-based entity that supplies specialized digital architecture, tools, and services for Antifa cells and other violent far-left extremists, including a foreign terrorist organization.

Chasunas:

Albert - Weiss Cedar Palace

Cohen - Levin Ateres Esther 

Friedman - Mandelbaum Ateres Chaim Elazar 

Herskowitz -  Winery Lake Terrace 

Dunn  - Falk Bais Faiga

Halberstat  - Todras Neemas Hachaim 

Kamenetzky - Taub Kesser Moshe Yehuda 

Neustadt - Reich Fountain Ballroom 

Belitzky - Bernstein Ateres Blima 

Kiddush Levana Latest chance tonight

Weather:  83° A mix of clouds and sun. High 83F

13 Elul Yartzeit of the Ben Ish Chai.

- Satmar rebbe Rav Zalman Leib shlita  paid a visit today to the Lakewood kehila in Rockwell ahead of the yomim Noraim

- Delta Air Lines will resume daily nonstop service from New York JFK to Tel Aviv’s Ben Gurion Airport on September 6, using Airbus A330-900neo aircraft. “The safety and security of our customers and employees remain our top priority.”

- United plans to resume September 8. American remains suspended through March 27, 2027.

- Schools were urging parents to opt in to LSTA new busing fee by the 5pm deadline despite the steep increase since carpooling will mean more traffic and safety issues.

- BDE: Petirah of Mrs. Chanie Jacobs A"h (nee  Bresler) after a illness, wife of Rav Chaim Jacobs shlita from Forest Ave, rebbe in Kamenitz yeshiva. Levaya today at the Lakewood chapel off 7th st 6:30 pm with Kevura in Lakewood. She was in her 50's.

-BDE: Petira of Rebbetzin Frieda Fried A”H, wife of Harav Psachya Fried Shlita, she was suddenly Niftar at her home in Lakewood today.. The Levaya will take 5:00 PM at the Lakewood Chapel, followed by Kevurah in Eretz Yisroel.

- Bloomberg: Talks between Russia and Ukraine are at a dead end; Putin plans to escalate the war

- Admor M'Chernobyl shlita from Brooklyn will be in Lakewood this evening for kabolas Kahal ahead of the Yomim Noraim. At  Cedarview ave starting with 7:30 Mincha until 10:30pm.

- Biala rebbe shlita will be in Deal,NJ today for a short  visit.

- At the Jackson council meeting last night the Township passed an ordinance prohibiting data centers in all zoning districts of the town . Four council members voted in favor while one opposed it.

- Youtuber Tyler Oliveira is reportedly back in Lakewood today and has been approaching residents and schools, he was in other jewish neighborhoods in brooklyn yesterday trying to engage people for interviews with a film crew. 

- Over 40 girls still not placed yet in high school. In previous years the nashgiach Rav Mattisyahu Solomon would not allow schools to. Begin the year untill all girls were placed.

- Chavivim of Ocean county ads 9 new members to expand services for the community 

- Tomchei Shabbos of Lakewood dedicates the Fischl family warehouse in Lakewood  on Summer Ave, that will serve as a distribution place for the food packages.

- Moishes supermarket in Howell was set to open ahead of the yomim tovim shopping season, as of now there's no official opening date announced yet.

- LSTA deadline for opting in has passed there's no data yet about what percentage of parents decided, yet several parents of mesivta age boys have organized their own carpool as the morning  shacbris buses arrive too early with empty routes that are not utilized. 

- FAA news LSTA drama leaves more questions than answers. Lakewood residents are still seeking answers about the LSTA’s revised $675 busing charge. Where did the approximately $290 reduction come from, and was LDC, UEZ, or other funding pursued? What happened to tbe $1.6 million loan. Questions also remain about who approved the original $945 charge and the reduction, board member current role with LSTA and Igud, and whether any conflicts of interest exist. Most importantly, residents want a clear explanation of why courtesy transportation is funded differently for public and nonpublic students and who ultimately pays for each program. Here

- BDE: Petirah of Rabbi Aron Gertz zt”l, a longtime rebbi at Yeshiva Karlin-Stolin of Boro Park, who spent many years dedicated to the chinuch and growth of generations of talmidim Originally from Kensington area and relocated in the later years he suffereda beart attack a few weeks ago. Levaya in Lakewood today  11am at the chapel off 7th st.

- APP reports Families of non-mandated private and religious school students in the township are scrambling to adjust to a steep financial shock after the Lakewood Student Transportation Authority announced that courtesy busing fees will more than double for the upcoming 2026–27 school year.

- Hatzolas Nefashos Calls for Apology at Jackson Council Meeting. A representative of Hatzolas Nefashos called on a Jackson council member to publicly apologize for remarks made about the volunteer emergency medical organization two weeks earlier, including referring to it as a “copycat” ambulance service. The representative invited the council member to tour the organization’s operations, meet its volunteers and medical teams, and observe their training firsthand. He also disputed claims that Hatzolas Nefashos volunteers are improperly trained or primarily based outside Jackson, and said a video showing a vehicle running a red light did not involve the organization. The representative emphasized that Jackson residents volunteer around the clock to help save lives and provide emergency transportation, including free transports in some circumstances. “Judge us by our actions and not assumptions,” he said, adding that the organization is here to serve Jackson residents and deserves an apology for what he called inappropriate public remarks.

A Council member echoed the statement saying there's no need for competition among volunteers  everyone  should be welcomed to serve along with the EMS for the. Benefits of the community. The council member who made the earlier remarks took up the offer to get a personal tour of Hatzolas Nefashos.

- Toms River shul application  coming up at the zoning board in 2 weeks for a Shul building  on three lots totaling slightly more than two acres in size  at 2030 Whitesville Road. A 1.5-story home is located on one of the properties; total property taxes paid on the three parcels is $21,304 this year, according to Ocean County tax records. APP reports

- Yair Netanyahu was evacuated from Miami several months ago after an Iranian cell was uncovered that was spying on him and preparing to assassinate him

- Beginning October 1, 2026: Some non-citizen immigrants may no longer qualify for NJ FamilyCare

- Catastrophic flash floods and mudslides have struck Jilong Port in Tibet near the Nepal border. Three Americans are among the hundreds feared dead in the disaster.

- Jackson  Police are investigating a series of vulgar, threatening voicemails left for Jackson Township Mayor Jennifer Kuhn amid a heated mayoral race. No matter what side of the aisle you are, please don't do this at all Callers used extreme language, including death threats. Both Kuhn and her opponent Elliott Shem-Tov condemned the messages, saying real change happens at the ballot box. Authorities have stepped up presence around Town Hall because of this NJ12 reports 

- United Torah Judaism chairman Moshe Gafni drops a bombshell with his plan: “I know whom I will recommend for prime minister, and it won’t be Netanyahu.  Pundits say, With the left, it’s much easier to move forward.

Hashkafa With Rav Gershon Ribner Shlita

Program for increasingly common inspirational assemblies Chevron massacre Choosing which avreichim to invest in The parking problem near yeshiva Kollel wife expresses emotional cost of parental dependency

Chasunas: 

Wasserman - Lemberger Bais Faiga

Zeldes - Donath Lake Terrace

Backenroth - Herzka Ateres Chaim Elazar            Sunnes - Reidel Ateres Reva

Traub - Grossman Fountain Ballroom

Mermelstein  - Daum Ne'emas Hachaim 

Klein -  Jaraslowics Cedar Palace

Savir - Borenstein Ateres Blima 

Sussman  -  Ringel Kesser Moshe Yehuda 

Talmid - Jadidi Ateres Esther 

Kiddush Levana

Weather: 80° Generally cloudy. High around 80F. 

12 Elul the 7th Yartzeit of Rabbi Shlomo Gissinger ZTL

- Trump administration pauses all immigrant visa applications worldwide.

- Over 40 girls not yet placed in high school a week before school starts

- Bingo/Menachem Lev Elul /Yom Tov sale going on now through September 5 side of salmon $8.99 see list below

- Tomchei Shabbos of Lakewood Chanukas Habayis and ribbon cutting ceremony at the new warehouse 503 Summer Ave. 5:30pm

- LSTA opt in deadline extended to tonight while parents decide their options.

- A massive fire broke out Tuesday morning at - Mordy’s Shtiebel, in Delaware Trail Rd at the Lakewood/Jackson border, heavily damaging the shul. Firefighters brought the blaze under control around 7:00 a.m. B’H all the Sifrei Torah were safely removed and found to be in good condition. The cause of the fire is currently unknown.

-NYT reports on the ICE immigration raid on Clifton Ave in Lakewood 2 months ago. Federal immigration agents raided El Oaxaqueño, a Mexican supermarket in New Jersey, on June 24. Workers and day laborers tried hiding in bathrooms, upstairs areas and a walk-in refrigerator, but agents found and detained several people. One worker said she was traumatized after pleading with officers, explaining that she had a 2-year-old daughter.

- Trump: I would never interfere with Canadians speaking French! In fact, I have never even thought of doing such a stupid thing. This lie was made up by a weak and ineffective Prime Minister in an attempt to gain political support, which he has totally lost, from the people of Quebec. I love French Canadians! President DONALD J. TRUMP

- More U.S. employers are reportedly cutting coverage for GLP-1 weight loss drugs as healthcare costs soar.

- At last night’s Lakewood Zoning Board meeting, several applications were heard and approved. The Planning Board chairman sat in for several applications because of conflicts of interest involving other board members. The board approved a subdivision for BMG, which recently purchased a property on 5th Street and N. Lake Drive that includes a cemetery. The cemetery will be subdivided from the original lot and remain as is. Another application near Prospect Square, submitted jointly by nine property owners for a mix of duplexes and single-family homes, was approved with some future restrictions. The board also approved an application on Pine Drive, adjacent to the Hearthstone neighborhood, that includes a new 40-foot road connecting Route 9 to New Hampshire Avenue and will allow for 16 homes.

- Despite setting up parking spaces the Lakewood town square has homeless camping there.

APP reports Lakewood temporarily turned its town square into a 35-space parking lot because construction reduced downtown parking. Officials say they were not aware that the construction company painted it already it’s temporary and reversible, but residents, churches, and nonprofits oppose it because the square is a longtime public gathering space and fear the parking could become permanent.

- Trump: Canada has been “Ripping Off” the U.S.A. for decades. They have been charging our Farmers 400% Tariffs, and more. They have driven many wonderful U.S. companies out of business. For 10 years they wouldn’t certify Gulfstream Jets, until I got involved. They wanted 100% of the market for Gulfstream’s Canadian competitor. I deal with many countries, and Canada is easily the most difficult and unreasonable. They feel entitled, but they are not a State, and will be entitled no longer! President DJT

- LSTA report: From the NJ state report on the Lakewood Student Transportation Authority Funding. 

Funding for the LSTA comes from three major sources, The first is an agreement with Lakewood Public School District to provide transportation or aid in lieu for approximately 25,000 nonpublic school students at the maximum AIL rate per student. For FY 2022, this amount was $24,740,600. The next largest is fees paid by families for courtesy transportation designed to fill the buses. LSTA charged $260 per student for the approximately 10,000 students receiving this service. For FY 2022, the total revenue to the LSTA from families paying for in-district and out-of-district transportation was $2,513,364. The third and final revenue stream is a payment from the town to help ensure that nonpublic school students get seats on a bus. For FY 2022, this amount was $1,203,100. Total revenue for the LSTA (FY 2022) was $27,253,964. The LSTA’s expenses totaled $30,813,857 for FY 2022. Program expenses included $28,817,333 for contracted bus services and $869,994 for aid in lieu payments. The LSTA reported administrative expenses of $1,126,530, about 3.8% of program expenses, which is in line with what CTSAs charge (although the LSTA does not explicitly charge an administrative fee in the same way that CTSAs do). One concern is that the LSTA appears to be running at a loss each year and has a growing amount of receivables at the end. 

- President Donald Trump said Tuesday that the United States is seriously considering renaming Lake Ontario “Lake America,” escalating his war of words with Canada as a bitter trade dispute intensifies and Ontario’s premier threatens to cut off electricity and critical minerals to the United States. “The United States is giving serious consideration to changing the name of Lake Ontario to Lake America in that we don’t expect to [be] doing much business with Ontario any longer,” Trump declared on Truth Social Tuesday.

- Ivanka Trump/Kushner opens up about her conversion to Orthodox Judaism in a conversation with Miriam Adelson. “I actually converted before Jared and I became engaged.”She speaks about what a blessing Judaism has been in her life, how its values have strengthened her connection with her children, and how Shabbat and the Jewish holidays have added so much meaning to their family life

- Bingo Mesamchei Lev price list

- Trump: I have just been informed by the United States Navy that all mines have been removed and/or detonated from within the International Waters of the Strait of Hormuz. Iran has been notified that any ship or boat placing new mines will be immediately and systematically destroyed. Through Space Force, we are watching every square inch of the Strait, as we are, also, with Pickaxe Mountain and the already destroyed three other Nuclear sites. There is a Zero Tolerance policy on mine placement in full force and effect. Thank you for your attention to this matter! President DONALD J. TRUMP

- Trump: The failing Islamic Republic of Iran is not paying large segments of their military, while at the same time killing protesters, even when they are not protesting, at levels not seen before. It is a humanitarian crisis of epic proportions, and must be stopped, NOW. President DONALD J. TRUMP

- Netanyahu: Following my instructions and in continuation of the law we passed, the eviction of the UNRWA compound in Kfar Akab, near Jerusalem, began today. The State of Israel will not allow an organization whose employees were involved in terrorism and the massacre of October 7th to operate within its territory, and it will take action against it using all available means.

- The Trump administration issued a $10 million reward for information on the whereabouts of the Commander of the Revolutionary Guard, the Commander of the Iranian Armed Forces, the Commander of the Revolutionary Guard Intelligence Organization, the Commander of the Quds Force of the Revolutionary Guard, and the Commander of the Cyber Unit of the Revolutionary Guard.

 Iran attacked an oil tanker in Hormuz. After six days without reports of attacks on vessels in the Strait of Hormuz, it was reported tonight that a missile or a drone hit the engine room of an oil tanker moving in the waters off Oman - an event that caused the tanker to be disabled

NYT: The Trump administration is preparing to return diplomats to the US embassies in the Middle East that were evacuated before and during the war with Iran, a move that may indicate that the US is not preparing to return to combat in the near future

IDF and Shin Bet: Yesterday we attacked and destroyed five weapons depots and a launch site of the Hamas terrorist organization in several strikes throughout the Gaza Strip. The attacked depots stored rockets, weapons, explosives, grenades, and other combat equipment that Hamas terrorists used to promote terrorist plots against our forces in the Gaza Strip. The attacked depots were set up inside mosques and next to humanitarian infrastructure in the Gaza Strip. This is another example of Hamas' cynical use of civilian infrastructure, including mosques and humanitarian infrastructure, in violation of international law and cynical exploitation of the civilian population.

- WSJ: Days before ordering an attack on Iran, Trump received explicit warnings from intelligence officials who cautioned that eliminating Khamenei would not topple the regime - but would instead lead to the rise of a more extreme and hardline leadership that would work to accelerate the development of nuclear weapons.

- The United Nations on Tuesday slammed Israel’s threat to evacuate people from areas where kites, drones and balloons are launched in Gaza, lamenting “unacceptable rhetoric” coming from Israeli leaders. “On the threat of expulsion due to children’s kite flying, I hope we can all agree that this is outrageous,” UN rights office spokeswoman Ravina Shamdasani told reporters in Geneva.

Kiddush Levana

Chasunas:

Ungarischer - Rivlin Bais Faiga

Frieman - Miller Ateres Reva

Friedman - Neuhaus Ateres Chaim Elazar

Lefkowitz - Sicherman  Lake Terrace 

Horowitz - Schwartz  Ne'emas Hachaim 

Shorr - Bender Fountain Ballroom 

Lopian - Godfrey Kesser Moshe Yehuda 

Kalatzky - Estreicher Cedar Palace 

Ehrman  - Yankelove Ateres Esther 

Rottenberg - Benyowitz Ateres  Bluma

Opt out its not manageable, no Opt in it's cheap!

What is most insulting is not even the increase itself  it's the lack of explanation. People feel they were played.

The initial number families were already paying was $385. It was raised to $945. That price has now been reduced by $290, bringing the new total to $675 per child. But the statement never acknowledged that this $290 is on top of the $385 base parents were already paying it was presented as if the added cost was only $290, when in reality the total cost per child is now closer to $700. That omission is what many people find especially misleading.

The financials also make no sense. If the shortfall was $2.7 million, why was the increase set at a level well above that to begin with  and then what suddenly changed that allowed additional funding to be found? Regardless, this is still a steep increase for parents to absorb, and it raises real questions about transparency. There is no guarantee this new baseline won't rise again  especially considering that the cost was just $150 not long ago, and is now effectively $700.

People deserve answers. Was the original increase deliberately set high to create panic and make the final number seem more manageable? When was this actually known? Why were people told that those in charge had only recently learned about it? Was this planned in advance? How long before was this known?

This is not a game. These decisions affect families' emotions and finances. Those responsible owe the public more than an apology they owe a full public explanation of what happened and what is still happening.

There are also major unanswered questions about the justification for using municipal tax dollars to fully fund courtesy busing for public school students while not doing the same for non-public-school students. The public has repeatedly asked for a legal explanation and still has not received one.

And taxpayers are being told that budget cuts are responsible, with blame placed on Trump, FEMA, and the state. But Lakewood's municipal tax levy increased for 5 years in a row from about $72.2 million in 2021 to $97.2 million in 2025  an increase of roughly 35%. The Township is now proposing another $14 million increase for 2026, bringing the municipal levy to approximately $111.2 million.

So the question remains: Where is all the tax money going  and why is the public still not getting straight answers?

Would you let your child walk to school down Cedarbridge Avenue, Cross Street, County Line Road, Route 88, or any other hazardous road with no sidewalks and heavy traffic?

For many parents, the answer is obvious: No.

Most of Lakewood is not safe to walk to school with no sidewalks safe shoulders and crossing busy intersections.

And that is precisely the problem. There are roads in Lakewood that are recognized as hazardous for children traveling to and from school. New Jersey itself recognizes hazardous walking routes and allows districts to provide transportation for students who would otherwise have to walk along those routes.

Yet under current New Jersey law, a student who lives within the mileage threshold is not automatically entitled to transportation simply because the route is dangerous. Districts may provide courtesy or subscription busing and may charge parents for that service.

In Lakewood, the Township pays the Board of Education for courtesy and hazardous transportation for public-school students. Private-school families, however, are required to pay out of pocket when they opt into courtesy transportation through the LSTA. With the annual fee increasing to $675, families are being asked to pay for transportation because the alternative is for children to travel along roads that have been designated hazardous.

This should not be a question of whether a family can afford the bus. A child's safety should not depend on whether his or her parents can afford the transportation fee.

A distance measured on a map does not tell us whether a child can safely walk that route. Two miles on a sidewalk is not the same thing as two miles along a road with no sidewalk, heavy traffic, high speeds, blind curves, dangerous crossings, or other hazards.

This is why the fight should not stop with the Lakewood Board of Education or the Township. This needs to be fought in Trenton.

New Jersey legislators need to hear directly from parents, school districts, municipalities, and communities dealing with these dangerous routes. The Legislature has already recognized that this is a problem. Legislation introduced in 2026, S4327, would establish statewide criteria for hazardous school routes for purposes of courtesy busing for students who are not remote.

The State should establish clear, objective criteria for hazardous school routes and provide funding so that children who are required to travel along those routes can be transported safely, regardless of whether they attend public or nonpublic school and regardless of their family's ability to pay a courtesy-busing fee.

This is not simply a Lakewood issue. It affects communities throughout New Jersey where children live within walking distance on paper but face roads that no responsible parent would consider a safe walking route.

We should be asking our state senators and assembly members: Will you support eliminating the financial burden on families whose children cannot safely walk to school? Will you meet with Lakewood parents and community leaders to hear firsthand about the roads our children are expected to navigate?

This fight belongs in Trenton.

Lakewood families should not have to choose between paying thousands of dollars a year and putting their children in a situation that the school district recognizes as unsafe.

We should not be asking parents, “Can you afford the bus?”

We should be asking the State of New Jersey, “If a route is hazardous for a child to walk, why isn't safe transportation guaranteed?”

Our children deserve better. 

At a meeting January 6, 2021 to add amendments to the student transportation rules, the issue of bus safety under 2 miles was brought up but the state responded "traffic safety is not within the scope of the readoption with amendments".

In New Jersey if you are a private school student and don't qualify for mandated busing because you live less than 2 miles away you but it is not safe to walk you still have to pay for busing. NJ Law Whenever a district board of education agrees to provide nonmandated transportation to and from school for reasons of hazard, the district board of education shall adopt a

hazardous busing policy in accordance with N.J.S.A. 18A:39-1.5. regarding the transportation of students who must walk to and from school along hazardous routes.  The policy shall include a list of hazardous routes in the district requiring the courtesy busing of students and the criteria used in designating the hazardous routes. On the NJ.gov website it states that "Boards of education are not required by law to provide busing for students who live less than remote from school "even for safety reasons".

"Q. Is it a district's responsibility to provide transportation for students who live less than remote from school when hazardous road conditions exist?

A. Boards of education are not required by law to provide busing for students who live less than remote from school even for safety reasons. However, boards are permitted, at their own discretion and expense, to provide transportation for students who reside less than remote from school and may charge the student's parents or legal guardians for this service. Municipalities may also contract with boards of education for this service and charge the parents. This transportation service is called Subscription Busing.

Bill S2975. Transportation for Hazardous Walking Routes Act; requires school districts to provide busing for students required to walk to school along hazardous routes

List of streets designated hazardous by Lakewood township and BOE

 1. Fourteenth Street (Across Madison)

2. Pine Street

3. Forest Avenue

4. Route 70

5. New Hampshire Avenue

6. Central Avenue

7. Cedarbridge Avenue

8. Kennedy Boulevard (East & West to Teaberry)

9. Route #9 (Madison Avenue & River Avenue)

10. Ridge Avenue (Brook Road over Lanes Mills)

11. County Line Road (West to East including Lanes Mills)

12. Park Avenue (From 2nd Street to County Line Road) – Elementary School Students Only

13. Ocean Avenue/Route #88 (From Lane Mills Road to Route 9)

14. Miller Road

15. Joe Parker Road

16. Cross Street

17. Hope Chapel Road

18. Chestnut Street

19. Squankum Road

20. James Street

21. New Hampshire Avenue

22. Locust Street

23. Washington Avenue

24. Kennedy Boulevard (Between Twin Oaks)

25. Vine Street

26. Clifton Avenue

27. Oak Street

28. Hillside Street

29. Williams Street

30. Prospect Street

Weather: 82° Sunshine to start, then a few afternoon 

- BDE: Petira of Sanzer Rebbe of Boro Park, Harav Hatzaddik Reb Boruch Halberstam, zt”l. He was 70 years old. The Rebbe, a descendant of the Divrei Chaim of Sanz, zt”l, was widely known for his extraordinary dedication to chesed and hachnosas orchim and for his open door to Yidden from across the community.

- LPD Traffic Alert: E 4th Street will be closed from Cottage Place to Negba Street for planned NJAW construction. Plan alternate route if possible.

- Amazon plans to begin using drones to carry out deliveries around South Jersey starting in mid-October, according to a notice the tech giant sent to Mantua Township officals. According to the notice, the proposed operating area for its "Prime Air" service will cover a radius of around 15 miles from its facility at 240 Mantua Grove Road in West Deptford Township. NJ

- Trump:  The Radical Left Democrats are going CRAZY with Fake Polls. They’re putting them out at levels never seen before. They’re called, “Demoralization Operations,” where they try to demoralize Republicans so that they don’t go out and vote — But the actual Polls are tremendous, and the Spirit in our Country has never been higher. We’re winning against EVERYONE, including Iran, whose Country is in Economic and Military Death Spiral. Thank you for your attention to this matter! President DONALD J. TRUMP

- LSTA update: Parents will have to "only" pay an additionl $290 instead. Total of $675 per child for courtesy busing. (While Lakewood township fully sponsors  public school courtesy busing.)

This is what schools are asked to send out

Important Update Regarding Non-Mandated Bussing

Dear Parents,

We are pleased to share an important update regarding non-mandated bussing for the upcoming school year.

Over the past several days, we have been working closely with representatives of the LSTA, together with our local and state government officials and dedicated askanim, in an effort to ensure that transportation for the children of our Kehila can begin on time and without interruption.

Baruch Hashem, through these discussions, the additional fee for non-mandated bussing has been reduced to $290 per student.

In light of this development, we are now recommending that parents opt in for transportation. Please note that the $290 fee is due at this time in order to secure transportation.

We fully recognize that this is still an additional expense for families. This arrangement is intended to allow bussing to begin on time while we continue our efforts to explore possible solutions.

We will continue to keep parents informed of any developments as they arise. Thank you for your patience, understanding, and cooperation throughout this process.With best wishes for a successful school year,{Your Mosed}

- Rav Shlomo Eisenberger shlita R"Y Telz will be giving a Elul shmooze  at B"M Kol Aryeh today at 1:15pm

- Ontario Premier Doug Ford threatens to cut off electricity and critical minerals to the US if the trade war with Canada worsens.

- LSTA: With the Monday night deadline looming, there have still been no updates from LSTA, the schools, or elected officials, leaving parents wondering what to do about bus transportation for the upcoming school year. There is still hope that some source of funding will come through, but for now, families are being left with a wait-and-see approach as the deadline rapidly approaches.

- LSTA from the state report: Recent LegislationIn 2024, new legislation expanded the LSTA model and allowed additional transportation consortia to form. Unlike the 2016 pilot, the new law allows districts from multiple counties to participate, removes district-size requirements, requires savings  from mandated  funds to be returned to districts, and permits up to a 6% administrative fee for  busing.

Lakewood Student Transportation Authority functions similar to a coordinated transportation services authority (CTSA). However, a CTSA is a governmental entity and the LSTA is a non-profit limited-liability company.

More from the report: One of the LSTA’s advantages over Lakewood for operating nonpublic routes is its flexibility in charging for courtesy busing, which Lakewood cannot do because of the district’s free and reduced lunch percentages. A study performed by Lakewood, NJ CPA firm HFA Certified Public Accountants and Advisors in 2020 found that the LSTA saves the district over $11 million versus the district bidding and managing all routes.

- Man with the truck will be in Lakewood today  at BM Ohr Tuvia East End Ave hall 4:30 pm

- Tuition in Lakewood  survey from TVOL interview with Lakewood families: Tuition remains a significant financial burden for many families. Sixteen percent spend at least half their income on tuition, while 29% spend more than 25%. Despite this, 61% believe tuition is reasonable, and paying tuition ranks 4.6 out of 5 in importance. Still, 29% owe tuition from the previous school year, showing that families can consider tuition important and reasonable while still struggling to pay it.

- Giyus: IDF police ramps up activity as they arrested 2 yeshiva bochurim today. Major protests expected as the rt 4 Highway will be shut down

- Giyus: “I have a feeling that the state will give up on us. They’ll understand that this isn’t possible and back off from us.” Rav Moshe Hillel Hirsch, leader of Degel HaTorah, speaking to several activists about the issue of drafting charesim into the military.

Tonight Lakewood zoning board meeting 7pm watch livestream Here see Agenda Here

On the agenda

Rabin & Company: Nassau Street, Amsterdam, Columbus, and Nostrand Avenue  residential units.

1127 CL, LLC: 1127 East County Line Road  office building.

Arcadia Avenue side-yard setback variances.

1503 Sean Court  side-yard setback for an addition.

Beth Medrash Govoha: 678 5th Street  subdivision for cemetery, house of worship, and house.

Debroz Real Estate: 485 River Avenue  addition to service the facility.

Pine Blvd. —multiple setback variances.

Westmount Group, LLC: 270 Albert Avenue  used-car lot and sales office.

Congregation Tiferes Ish: 131–135 East 7th Street, triplex.

- Did you know approximately 37% of all pregnancies in New Jersey end in abortion, which is one of the highest proportions in the country? There have been about 2,204,400 abortions in NJ since it was allowed in the 70s.

- Keren Olam HaTorah delegation Lakewood Rosh Yeshiva Rav Malkiel Kotler shlita joins the gedolim arriving this morning in Mexico.

- Iran tried to assassinate one of Netanyahu's sons, prime minister tells Israeli TV outlet Channel 14

- Trump: IRAN IS COMPLETELY COLLAPSING!!! President DJT

- Trump posted a Newsmax headline quoting a statement by Ghalibaf, Speaker of the Iranian Parliament: “We are starving, we cannot survive.."

- The United States is preparing a sweeping new round of economic sanctions against Iran as the Trump administration intensifies pressure on Tehran, with Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent calls the effort an “economic D-Day.” The move comes as Iran’s currency hits a historic low and Iranian officials threaten to halt oil exports through the Strait of Hormuz, while U.S. officials say commercial traffic through the region has increased despite the tensions.

- At the Cairo negotiations, the United States and the Peace Council were presented with intelligence indicating that there are elements within Hamas planning to deceive and not fulfill the commitment to full disarmament

- The U.S. naval blockade remains in place as the USS Abraham Lincoln heads home after a record-setting deployment and the USS George Washington moves in to replace it.

-  October Council Warns of Renewed Security Failures: A comprehensive report based on testimony from observers, soldiers and security personnel warns that Hamas is testing the IDF, operational approvals are sometimes delayed and people are afraid to report threats. Families bereaved in the 7 October massacre demanded a state commission of inquiry, warning that without investigation and corrective action, another disaster could occur.

- Israeli Strikes Reported in Southern Lebanon: Lebanese media reported Israeli airstrikes in the southern towns of Houla and Al-Mansouri.

- IDF Strikes Hamas Operatives in Deir al-Balah: The IDF said it struck 2 Hamas operatives overnight in central Gaza who infiltrated Israel during the 7 October massacre, killing Nukhba operative Abd al-Nasser Jabr Abu Assad. According to the military, they had recently planned attacks, tried to rebuild Hamas capabilities and systematically violated the ceasefire

- After 78 years, the Irgon boat, the Altalena, has been found. Tonight, August 24, 2026, at 00:30, during a complex maritime search operation, the ship was located intact at a depth of 503 meters, west of the Israeli coast.

 In June 1948, shortly after the establishment of the state, the Irgun ship "Altalena" arrived at the shores of Israel carrying weapons and fighters. Ben-Gurion demanded that all the weapons be handed over to the IDF, but the Irgun demanded that a portion of them be transferred to their members. The dispute escalated into a violent confrontation, and the IDF fired at the ship off the coast of Tel Aviv. 16 Irgun members and three IDF soldiers were killed.

The incident is considered one of the traumatic events in the history of the state and a symbol of the struggle for the principle of "one army for one state

Kiddush Levana 🌙 opportunity  latest time to say is Wed night 

Chasunas:

Landau - Nelkin Ateres Esther 

Blumberg  - Sommerfeld Ateres Blima 

Ginsberg  - Birnbaum Cedar Palace 

Miller  - Suthon Fountain Ballroom 

Basch  - Kaminsky Bais Faiga

Elenbogen - Krupnik Ateres Reva

Ashkenasy  - Rosenblum Kesser Moshe Yehuda

Kaufman (Detroit) - Cohen Ateres Chaim Elazar

Mandelbaun - Dombrov Neemas Hachaim

Weather: 84° Sunshine and clouds mixed. 

- Ironic:  The gaboim of 770 have issued a public warning following reports of increased missionary activity in and around 770.

Reports say missionary literature has recently been found inserted into siddurim ans seforim.

- Lakewood police conducted traffic  enforcement in front of Satmar shul on Forest Ave.

- Jewish Summer Camp Locked Down After Neighbor Fires 20 Rifle Rounds; 23 Guns Seized, Suspect Now Out on Bail. More than 400 campers and staff at a Jewish summer camp in Maine were forced into lockdown after a neighboring man allegedly fired roughly 20 rifle rounds, with shell casings suggesting some shots may have been fired toward the camp’s basketball court. Deputies seized 23 firearms from the suspect, while court documents cite suspected antisemitic bias. He was arrested and initially held on $50,000 bail, but has since been released under strict conditions.

-Jackson  carnival at Johnson Park

- A Point Pleasant man was arrested in connection with a series of swastika graffiti incidents in Asbury Park, according to police.

- New era at BMG : Rav Shneur Kotler shlita son of the Lakewood R"Y Rav Malkiel Kotler shlita will deliver a shiur today for the first time  at 12:45 pm in the Yosshon BM on the sugya of תולדותיהם כיוצא בהן in Case he's בבא קמא.

The shiur is part of the phasing in process for the next generation of the chavrei hanhala of BMG. Last zman Rav Aaron Olshin gave shiur klali. N Rav Aaron Shustal and Rav Yehoshua Abba Busel delivered shiurim over the last year.

- Admor of Chernobyl shlita from Brooklyn will be in Lakewood this week Wednesday for kabolas kahal ahead of the Yomim Noraim.

- LSTA Update: Parents still lack clear guidance on the LSTA non-mandated busing changes. While some local articles warn that opting out could worsen mandated routes through longer rides or shortages, those claims need to be backed by facts. The bigger concern is transparency and timing: It appears Township officials knew about the funding increase and its impact earlier, why were parents only notified days before the deadline, leaving little time to understand the situation and make an informed decision?

- Keren Olam Hatorah delegation of gedolei yisroel from E"Y have arrived today in Mexico for a South American fundraiser trip.

- LSTA Audit in 2002 Raises Financial Oversight Concerns

A 2022 state audit of the Lakewood Student Transportation Authority (LSTA) reported approximately $27.3 million in revenue and $30.8 million in expenses, a roughly $3.5 million shortfall. The audit reported about $1.13 million in administrative expenses, with salaries approaching $500,000.

LSTA transported roughly 25,000 nonpublic-school students, funded largely through aid-in-lieu payments, family transportation fees, and township contributions. 

$24.7 million in maximum aid-in-lieu payments for roughly 25,000 nonpublic-school students;

$2.5 million collected from courtesy-bus family fees ($260 per student); and

$1.2 million in Lakewood township contributions for public-school courtesy transportation.

While the state recognized LSTA’s innovative approach, it also raised concerns about oversight, potential conflicts of interest, data issues, federal ESSER funds, and unused resources that should have been returned to the district.

- A article with Lakewood Mayor Coles in TVOL says The New Jersey Local Finance Board officially denied Lakewood’s request to exceed the state’s maximum tax levy cap. This cap override was intended to cover a severe municipal budget shortfall. The Township Committee had voted to raise property taxes by 14.4 cents per $100 of assessed value. For a home assessed at $750,000, this would have meant an annual tax increase of $1,080.

In the above article Local officials suggest political retaliation may be at play. Over 90% of Lakewood voted for Governor Mikie Sherrill's opponent, Jack Ciattarelli, in the gubernatorial election. Mayor Coles noted that while former Governor Murphy provided millions in state grants to help bridge the funding gap, Governor Sherrill "ripped off the Band-Aid" and slashed that support down to $1 million.Consequences: Because the tax hike was rejected, town officials must review the budget to find alternative balances. Mayor Coles warned this will likely result in service cuts and employment layoffs across the township.

Mayor Ray Coles attributes the structural deficit to an outdated 1970s state aid formula. While Lakewood has grown to 141,000 residents, it receives only $5 million in state aid. By comparison, similarly sized or slightly larger NJ cities receive drastically more (e.g., Newark receives $110 million; Paterson receives $33 million).Collateral Financial Hits: The township's budget was further strained by FEMA's refusal to grant disaster aid for a historic winter snowstorm, alongside the state denying a separate $5 million Urban Enterprise Zone (UEZ) project for public safety.Political Tensions: 

- President Trump lashes out at Canada after trade negotiations between the two countries collapse, accusing America's northern neighbor of wanting the "benefits of being a State, without being one. “Canada wants the benefits of being a State, without being one!!! They have also charged our great farmers, for many years, massive amounts of Tariffs. No more!!! President DJT”

- Jonathan Pollard will be joining MK Sharren Haskel's Israel First party and will support it in the upcoming elections. 0Pollard said he chose the party because he believes it represents Zionist and nationalist leadership that puts Israel’s security first.

- Today Lakewood-area residents can get help applying for New Jersey’s ANCHOR prperty-tax relief program this Sunday, Aug. 23, from 1–5 p.m. at 1001 Route 70 in Toms River, near the Lakewood border. Representatives from the state Treasury will provide application assistance and answer eligibility questions in English and Yiddish.

- Agudah CEO currently in E"Y met with PM Netanyahu Defense Minister Katz and the Gerer rebbe.

Sign of Shiur at BMG (photo m weisberg)

Video: Lakewood Roshei  Yeshiva  walk Rav Yosef  Chaim  Shneur Kotler shlita into the Bais Medrash as he delivers shiur klali for the first time

.

- Joint Statement from the Israeli Prime Minister and the Minister of Defense: Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Minister of Defense Israel Katz held a situation assessment tonight (Sunday) regarding the threat of launching drones, balloons, and kites from the Gaza Strip towards Israel. Israel warns Hamas that if the launches towards Israel do not stop immediately, the IDF will act to intensify operations against those responsible for the launches and will evacuate populations from areas from which kites, drones, and balloons are launched. The Prime Minister clarified that we will not return to the reality of before October 7. Israel will not allow the terrorist organization Hamas or any other entity in the Gaza Strip to return to threatening our settlements and undermining the sense of security of our citizens.

- Netanyahu on drones: This is an F-35 aircraft. Do you have a drone at home? It can be just as dangerous. If they are in large numbers, equipped with weapons, very accurate, and difficult to detect, they will be problematic. We have been trying to find a solution to this problem for years. We are the most advanced country in the world in this field, but this is a global problem. We have seen this in Ukraine Lebanon and Iran, and now they are trying to revive this technology and bring it into Gaza.

My directive to the security organizations and the Israel Defense Forces is to do everything possible to counter this dangerous tool: targeting the drones themselves, targeting their operators, and targeting the location from which they are launched.

- Trump on Iran: “They'd love to make a deal, but they're not ready to make the right deal”

- Terrorist stabs a frum young father in the Jordan valley. Elchanan Chanania was moderately wounded in a stabbing attack near the village of al-Auja in the Jordan Valley on Sunday morning, after stopping on the way to a family vacation in Tevaria for his wedding anniversary. Chanania’s pregnant wife, two daughters and father-in-law were waiting in the car when the terrorist attacked him from behind and stabbed him in the upper body. His oldest daughter witnessed the attack. He was taken conscious to Shaare Zedek Medical Center with a shoulder fracture and internal bleeding, while Israeli security forces continued searching al-Auja, Yericho and the surrounding area for the attacker.

- Defense Minister Israel Katz says he has instructed the IDF to “act forcefully” against the launching of kites from the Gaza Strip in recent days. Over the weekend, at least four kites flown from Gaza landed in Kibbutz Nahal Oz. The army said nothing suspicious was found on the kites and there was no danger to the public, but many have associated the objects with Gazan kites and balloons carrying incendiary devices that plagued southern Israel in previous years.

- Saudi Al-Hadath channel reports: The Pakistani army chief will deliver US messages to Iran during his visit and will attempt to break the current deadlock and resume the talks.

- NYP: Iran's grip on the Strait of Hormuz is weakening: The New York Post reports a 400% increase in traffic volume in the strait. According to the newspaper, traffic on the strategic maritime route surged by nearly 400% in the last two weeks, amid increased use of vessels in the US-supported corridor to cross the strait.

- According to sources within the Israeli security establishment, Hamas has been exerting significant pressure on the mediating countries in recent days to blame Israel for violating the ceasefire agreement. This move has two main motivations: first, to halt any future process of the organization disarming; and second, to gain legitimacy to escalate operations against IDF forces operating in Gaza. (Channel 12)

- The reason for the IDF attack in Syria this week: Turkey was about to deploy air defense systems at the airport, which would have restricted Israeli operational freedom

- US Secretary  of Energy Chris Right: Iran is losing the effectiveness of its leverage in the Strait of Hormuz: The US Navy helped transport more than 15 million barrels of oil through the Strait of Hormuz. 

As a reminder, before the war approximately 23 million barrels of oil (including Iranian oil) passed through the Strait of Hormuz each day

Weather Tonight low 68 kiddush Levana but cloudy

Tomorrow A shower is possible early. Cloudy early with partial sunshine expected late. High 84F.

- More confusion from local mosdos to parents regarding  LSTA

Over Shabbos, the latest LSTA increase was a major topic of conversation among parents, who had first received the news on Thursday. While the latest school email/Text before Shabbos instructed parents to opt out, confusing messages sent Motzei Shabbos told parents not to opt in or out, warning that doing so would delete and remove their information from the system.

Meanwhile, the original LSTA email stated that if no action was taken by Monday at 11 p.m., parents would be automatically opted out.

"If no action is taken by 11:00 pm Monday, your child will be opted out, and the routes will be adjusted and consolidated accordingly."

This was sent out by some schools on Motzei shabbos "Important clarification regarding the non mandated bussing. Our recommendation is to NOT opt in but also to NOT opt out. (Actively opting out will remove your data from the system and cause a big problem). “Shev V’al 

- At Yeshivas Brisk,  the Rosh Yeshiva Rav Avrohom Yehoshua Soloveitchik, spent Shabbos in his new apartment adjacent to the yeshiva and participated in all the tefillos. During Krias HaTorah,  he eceived the aliyah of Levi and then recited Hagomel, breaking down in tears as he thanked Hashem following his severe illness and medical ordeal, which had left him critically ill and bedridden. (Bhol)

- Lakewood officials have turned the town square into a “temporary” parking lot and while the move pleases some local merchants, others are less than happy to see the historic town square gone. Over the years, charities have held food and clothing giveaways at the square for years and have held many protest rallies there as well. APP.

- Part of Morris County experienced a very small earthquake on Saturday afternoon, according to the U.S. Geological Survey. The 1.1 magnitude quake was recorded more than three miles southwest of Chester and at a depth of seven miles, the agency posted to its website.

- Tomorrow Lakewood-area residents can get help applying for New Jersey’s ANCHOR prperty-tax relief program this Sunday, Aug. 23, from 1–5 p.m. at 1001 Route 70 in Toms River, near the Lakewood border. Representatives from the state Treasury will provide application assistance and answer eligibility questions in English and Yiddish.

- 40  Lakewood area girls still not placed in High schools with a week left for the new year 

- RFK Jr. says Tylenol isn’t just linked to autismbut also ADHD and liver toxicity in kids.So why is Tylenol still on store shelves while Ivermectin isn’t? “Because Big Pharma owns our politicians,” RFK Jr. says. “And I’m telling them to get lost.

- Canada Announces New Tariffs After Trade Talks Collapse: Prime Minister Mark Carney said Canada will impose new tariffs on US products from 8 September after rejecting Washington’s demands, as new 50% US tariffs on Canadian goods take effect. Canadian measures will focus on sectors including steel and dairy, with further details expected in the coming days.

- Trump calls Tucker Carlson a loser and a low-IQ individual: 

"Tucker Carlson just met with Lightweight “Former” Congressman, Thomas Massie, and Marjorie “Traitor” Greene, LOSERS ALL! Tucker’s “Views” have fallen through the floor, and will only get worse. Nobody cares about him any longer in that he has become totally irrelevant, and happens to be, surprisingly, a very Low I.Q. individual. He could barely get out of College, and maybe he didn’t, but only really dumb people can’t make it through that wonderful four year time in life! Tucker wants to run for political office, but he should be required to take a cognitive test. He’s got no chance, but could probably take a couple of points away from whatever the Republican ticket happens to be! Tucker is a loser, and always has been! Marjorie Taylor Brown (Green turns to Brown under stress!), a highly neurotic young woman, went from Ultra Conservative to a Liberal “Fool,” all in a matter of weeks, because I refused to return her phone calls — Not because I didn’t like her, just because I had no time. She was way down in the Polls in Georgia (because I took away my Endorsement), and would have had no chance at winning, so she, just like everyone else, “QUIT!” Thomas Massie has turned out to be a failed politician, and a real JERK. He thought it was really wonderful to vote, “NO,” on everything, no matter how good, strong, or proper the Legislation would be. What a team this would be, THREE LOSERS, and a pocketful of change! The only chance they have is to join the Radical Left Dumocrats, and try breaking into the Primary System. To all of them I say, PRAISE BE TO ALLAH! President DONALD J. TRUMP"

Friday, August 21, 2026 / ח' אלול תשפ''ו

ערב שבת פרשת כי תצא חמישי דנחמתא

Candle lighting 7:27 pm

Shkiah/Sunset 7:45 pm

Weather: Tonight overcast Low 67F.

Shabbos day Cloudy skies. High 76F.

5787 is a leap year (for those makpid to have kavana by parshas Zachor this week) .

ברגע קטן עזבתיך וברחמים גדלים אקבצך

כי ההרים ימושו והגבעות תמוטנה וחסדי מאתך לא ימוש וברית שלומי לא תמוט אמר מרחמך ה׳

 Video: Kan tzipor by pirchei Yerushalayim

Elul 5786

A wave of frustration and panic has spread through the Lakewood community following the announcement of a major increase in transportation costs and an extremely short window for families to figure out what to do.

Families have been left scrambling to come up with money they don't have  or arrange carpools, private transportation and other alternatives, with only days to respond. For many, that simply isn’t realistic. Between multiple children, different school schedules and Lakewood’s already difficult traffic, finding a workable transportation solution on such short notice can feel nearly impossible.

And this isn’t the first time LSTA has given families a last-minute choice: pay more for transportation or opt out. 4 years ago the same shtick was pulled.  On July 31,2022, Yeshivos and private schools got short notice from LSTA to notify parents of courtesy busing increase from $180 to $260. Parents had until  12:00 pm August 1.

But this time feels different. The potential financial impact is enormous, raising a basic question: How can a change this significant be announced with so little notice and so little preparation for the families who will have to deal with it? Did they know this was coming or was this a last minute decision.

Across Lakewood, families are calling each other, posting in WhatsApp groups and online forums, comparing numbers and trying to figure out what their options even are.

Where is the leadership?

Families are especially frustrated by what they see as silence from nearly every corner of the community. School owners  Roshei mosdos have largely stayed quiet. Politicians who are often quick to speak up on community issues have not publicly stepped forward. And broader communal leadership has yet to offer clear answers, advocacy or even a meaningful acknowledgment of  nesius ol in what families are being asked to deal with.

The numbers 

People are struggling to understand how a reported transportation budget reduction of roughly $2.7 million could potentially translate into an $18–$19 million burden on families. The gap is staggering, and families want a straightforward explanation: How were these numbers calculated, and why does a relatively small reduction in the transportation budget result in such a dramatically larger cost being shifted onto families?

 A short deadline.

Families cannot build new transportation arrangements overnight. Carpools have to be coordinated. Private vans have to be found. Work schedules have to be changed. Children with different schools, pickup times and dismissal schedules all have to be accounted for.

For working parents and large families, this isn’t a minor inconvenience. It can affect whether they can get to work, whether their children can get to school and whether the family’s entire daily schedule is even manageable.

Families are being left to figure it out alone.

Lakewood kehilla is used to communal leadership stepping in when an issue affects thousands of families. Parents are not seeing that happen here. Instead, they are calling one another, trying to piece together while the people who could potentially provide answers remain largely silent.

The olam should be kept open about what is going on. They want the financial numbers explained and enough time to make arrangements that are actually workable for their families.

Right now, families are being asked to make major financial and logistical decisions within days.

And for many, the most troubling part is not just the cost it’s the feeling that when they need their community to step up, nobody is stepping forward.

Friday, August 21, 2026 / ח׳ אלול תשפ״ו

ערב שבת פרשת כי תצא

Candle lighting 7:27 pm

Shkiah/Sunset 7:45 pm

Weather Partly cloudy. High 78F.

Tonight overcastLow 67F.

Shabbos day Cloudy skies. High 76F.

This shabbos 9 Elul Yartzeit of R' Tzadok HaKohen Rabinowitz of Lublin (1823-1900). Talmid of the Mei HaShiloach of Izbhitz & R'Leibele Eiger.

- LPD Traffic Alert: Joe Parker Rd will be closed from Long Beach Ave to Brookfield Dr for emergency Verizon construction. Plan alternate route if possible.

- This message was sent late erev shabbos by Lakewood mosdos:

“Regarding the new LSTA fee for non-mandated students, the Mosed feels that this is a cost that should be covered through government funding and should not be placed on the parents,” Therefore, at this time, our recommendation is that parents NOT opt in to the Non-Mandated Busing program at the new rate. We will keep parents updated should there be any developments.”

- Update several schools instructed by the Igud Hamosdos have notified Lakewood parents not to opt in to LSTA busing. They feel the government should pay not the parents.

- This Shabbos simchas Beis Shvilei Dovid/ Zhiditchov in Oak n Vine Aufruf

will be held for the son of Rav Yitzchak Unsdorfer, Av Beit Din of Shvili David in Lakewood, kallah is daughter of the Zhiditchov Rebbe of Baltimore.

- New York Gov. Kathy Hochul is publicly urging New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani to concentrate on the day-to-day responsibilities of governing the nation’s largest city rather than continuing to focus attention on Israel, as his rhetoric and policies toward the Jewish state remain a source of controversy.

- High school girls: With school starting in 10 days there's up to 40 girls still mot placed in Lakewood high schools.

- Shemiras Shabbos: El Al canceled flight LY8 from New York to Tel Aviv after passengers had already boarded because the delayed departure would have resulted in the aircraft landing in Israel after the Shabbks began. 

- LSTA: State audit in 2022 shows they collected from yeshiva courtesy bus family fees at $260 per student at 10,000 students for a total of $2.5 million, while Lakewood township contributed $1.2 million for public school courtesy students. In FY 2022.

Reports say there are 20,000 non mandated students now, if all are paying $945 that equals $19 million dollars! Perhaps (Parents can pool money together and arrange cheaper transportation without LSTA)

- Schools  sent a message  to parents  they are aware of the LSTA’s latest notice asking parents to either pay up to $950 per child or opt out. However, schools have indicated that there is little they can do and are advising parents to choose whichever option works best for their families

- Shemiras Shabbos: El Al canceled flight LY8 from New York to Tel Aviv after passengers had already boarded because the delayed departure would have resulted in the aircraft landing in Israel after the Shabbks began. 

- New Jersey Governor Sherrill signed boll A2218/S2260, into law a pro Toeiva bill expanding legal protections for abortions. The legislation would make it a fourth-degree crime to interfere with access to clinics or hospitals and would prohibit insurers from denying or limiting coverage for abortion and gender-transition services. The law  could criminalize peaceful prayer and sidewalk counseling outside abortion clinics.

The law targets anyone accused of blocking access or intimidating people entering these facilities, with penalties reaching up to five years in prison if serious bodily harm occurs. Violators could also face civil lawsuits, attorney’s fees, punitive damages, and at least $1,000 per violation.

New Jersey Right to Life warns the law is written so broadly that prayer, signs, or simply offering help could be labeled “intimidation” by someone who claims to feel threatened.

- Jackson: Attorneys for the Jackson 21 homeowners association accused of segregating its community pool by gender say the HOA has the right to separate male and female swimmers because most residents are Orthodox Jews who follow religious laws requiring gender-separated swimming.

The dispute centers on whether the HOA may impose gender-specific pool hours or access based on the religious practices of the community's majority residents.

- LPD ticketing cars parked at BMG along Private way. Today  state troopers are in the area enforcing traffic laws.

- Turkey has requested Interpol to issue arrest warrants for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and dozens of other senior Israeli officials. The legal action is being taken as part of a criminal trial being held in absentia at the 11th High Criminal Court in Istanbul. The charges relate to the armed interception of the Global Somud flotilla en route to Gaza in international waters.

- After 44 years, IDF soldier Yehuda Katz HYD has  been brought to kever Yisroel, with his kevurah taking place at Har HaZeisim. Katz went missing during the 1982 Battle of Sultan Yacoub in Lebanon. His remains were returned to Israel following a special intelligence operation.q

50,000 attend selichos last night at the kosel

 Kavanah for Zechiras Amalek

This week’s Maftir, Parshas Ki Seitzei, discusses the mitzvah of Zechiras Amalek, which we fulfill annually through the reading of Parshas Zachor.

Since this coming year is a leap year, there will be 13 months between last year’s Parshas Zachor and the upcoming Parshas Zachor. The Chasam Sofer explains that the annual reading nevertheless fulfills the mitzvah. The reason is that the natural process of forgetting after a year is not determined solely by the number of days that have passed, but also by the cycle of seasonal events that we experience throughout the year.

Nevertheless, the Maharam Schick (Mitzvos, no. 604) writes that the Chasam Sofer himself instructed his students that in a leap year, they should have specific kavanah to fulfill the mitzvah of Zechiras Amalek during the Krias  HaTorah reading of Ki Seitzei. This ensures that a full twelve-month period does not pass without hearing the Torah’s account of Amalek.

Submitted: Anyone davening in a shul where a Bar Mitzvah bachur is receiving Maftir should have specific kavanah during Shvi’i to fulfill the mitzvah of Zechiras Amalek through the Torah reading. (Al pi Rabbi Shmuel Felder shlita.)

Selichos Minyanim in Lakewood for Sefardim Elul תשפ"ו. Most minyanim start 45 minutes before the scheduled time for shachris 

סליחות שחרית מקום Address

4:35 5:10 עץ חיים (ותיקין) 21 Cedar Street

5:10 6:15* מדרש תורת 108 E. Ninth Street

6:15* 7:00* עץ חיים 21 Cedar Street

6:15 7:00* ק' ספרדים בני תורה 48 Hickory Hill Road, Jackson, NJ

6:15* 7:00* ק"ק ספרדים חדש 495 Cooks Bridge Road, Jackson, NJ

6:20* 7:00* ק"ק ספרדים מנחם 294 Metedeconk Trail, Jackson, NJ

6:20 7:00 קהל בני תורה 304 Monmouth Avenue

6:25 7:10 מכון אברכים 500 Marc Drive

6:30 7:15 זכרון בנימין 701 Princeton Avenue

6:30* 7:15* קהילת ספרדים 2 Kew Garden Drive

6:30* 7:05* אהל שלומית 38 Spruce Street

6:35* 7:15* ק' ספרדים ד'לילך 310 Winchester Drive, Jackson, NJ

6:45* 7:15* בית יוסף 203 Williams Street

7:05 7:50 ישיבה משך חכמה 77 Williams Street

7:05 7:45 קהל בני תורה 304 Monmouth Avenue

7:10* 7:50* אהל שלומית 38 Spruce Street

7:15 8:00 ק'ק ספרדים 220 Sunset Road

7:15 8:00 עץ חיים 21 Cedar Street

7:20 8:05 מכון בני הישיבה 423 Sixth Street

7:20 8:00 אהל שלום 613 Madison Avenue

7:20 7:50 כולל יד רחל 10 Sylvan Court

7:20* 8:00* מכון אברכים 500 Marc Drive

7:25 8:05 תורה וחיים 703 Park Avenue

7:30 8:05 ישיבת בני עולם 24 Caranetta Drive

7:50 8:30 בימ אהל תורה 1009 Brook Road

NJ law says that when transportation is provided to students who live less than the required distance from school, families cannot be excluded simply because they cannot afford the transportation fee. Financial hardship is based on the same income standards used for free and reduced-price meals. Source 

The law also requires districts that provide courtesy busing to have a policy identifying hazardous routes. So the question for LSTA is simple: If it is taking on the district’s transportation responsibilities, why are families who cannot afford the fee being left without transportation and what hazardous-route protections apply to children who live under two miles from school

 Parents of yeshiva and other nonpublic-school students are questioning why they can be charged nearly $950 per child for transportation while Lakewood taxpayers fund courtesy transportation for public-school students. But the role of the Lakewood School Transportation Association (LSTA) raises an even bigger question.

The 2016 New Jersey law creating the Lakewood nonpublic-school transportation consortium states that: “The consortium shall assume the responsibilities of the eligible district under [N.J.S. 18A:39-1”](https://pub.njleg.state.nj.us/Bills/2016/AL16/22_.PDF N)

The Legislature went even further in the 2023 consortium law, stating that: “The consortium shall assume all of the responsibilities of the school district under [N.J.S. 18A:39-1”](https://pub.njleg.state.nj.us/Bills/2022/PL23/326_.HTM N)

That language raises a serious question for LSTA. If LSTA assumes the district’s transportation responsibilities, which transportation protections and requirements does LSTA believe it has assumed  and which does it claim do not apply?

LSTA has relied on a Lakewood School District age policy to deny transportation to some five-year-old children. If LSTA says it is not the district when parents ask why certain transportation protections apply, why is it relying on district policy when that policy is used to deny transportation?

And if LSTA can use district rules to restrict transportation, why should families be told that district transportation protections do not apply when those protections would help families who cannot afford the fee?

New Jersey transportation rules also recognize financial-hardship protections for certain transportation services, with financial hardship tied to the state's free and reduced lunch  income standards.

What protection does LSTA provide to a family that qualifies under those income standards but cannot afford a transportation fee approaching $950 per child?

What law authorizes LSTA's current transportation program and its fees? Which responsibilities under N.J.S. 18A:39-1 has LSTA assumed? 

Why is LSTA relying on a district age policy to deny transportation while claiming that district transportation requirements do not otherwise apply?

What financial-hardship policy is available to families who cannot afford the transportation fee?

The Legislature specifically gave the consortium the district's transportation responsibilities for eligible nonpublic-school students. If LSTA believes certain district protections do not apply, parents are entitled to know exactly which ones, and the legal basis for that position.

If LSTA can rely on the district's rules when those rules restrict transportation, why can't families rely on the district's transportation protections that would help them?.

(Current NJ transportation regulations HERE  NJ Department of Education  Student Transportation Here)

Chasunas:

Bendkowski - Rotstein  Kesser Moshe Yehuda

Nafoff - Miller Bais Faiga 

Panski - Schwinder Ateres Chaim Elazar

Karmel  - Drucker Fountain Ballroom 

Margeretan - Dreebin  Lake Terrace 

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

Weather: Low 66° Thunderstorms, some strong this evening followed by occasional showers overnight. Chance of rain 90%. Rainfall near an inch. Localized flooding is possible.

- Shiur klali today at Lakewood Yeahiva, BMG R"Y Rav Malkiel delivering the pesicha shiur on Bava Kama credit (M.Weisberg)

Just days before the school year starts, LSTA dropped a bombshell: non-mandated busing costs are jumping and families have almost no time to prepare or decide.

Here are the facts:

The subsidy that funded this program for the past 10 years has been cut by the Township.

Cost per child is rising from $385 to $945

You must opt in by Monday, August 24 at 11:00 PM or your child is automatically dropped from the route. Opting out gets you a refund of the $385 but then you're on your own for transportation.

For many families, this adds up to $3,000+ in new expenses this year alone.

Meanwhile, the early morning shachris buses run nearly empty, with parents already organizing carpools to cope but many schools don't even allow carpooling, forcing families into thousands of dollars of new expense they can't absorb.

And the Lakewood Township committee fully funds non-mandated busing for public school students while yeshiva and private school families in Lakewood get none of that support. 

Where are our elected officials? Silent. Hiding behind monthly Zoom meetings while millions in tax abatements and years of budget surpluses go unexplained.

Lakewood families deserve transparency and they deserved more than a few days to prepare for a $3,000 hit to their budget.

Per New Jersey law Lakewood or any parents who qualify for the school lunch program do not have to pay if they can't afford it and can not be denied transportation according to NJ law. The schools and LSTA have so far not notified parents of this law and parents are given a form to either sign up or opt out.

 - NJ Law Students who are unable to pay because of financial hardship shall not be excluded from receiving services described under this section. The criteria used to determine financial hardship shall be the same as the Statewide income eligibility standards established for free and reduced-price meals under the State school lunch program.

Full Nootice from LSTA:

August 20th, 2026

IMPORTANT NOTICE TO LAKEWOOD NON-MANDATED FAMILIES

Dear Parent of Lakewood Non-Mandated Student,

You are receiving this notice because one or more of your children are considered non-mandated for transportation purposes. A non-mandated child is one of the following: an elementary student who resides 2 miles or less from school or a high school student residing 2.5 miles or less. The information below pertains solely to Lakewood students and does not affect students residing in Howell, Jackson or Toms River.

Overview and Background:

The state of New Jersey has and will continue to provide transportation funding for all Lakewood mandated students. However, the LSTA does not receive any state funding for non-mandated students.

In spite of this, for the past 10 years, LSTA together with Lakewood township has been able to provide busing to thousands of Lakewood non-mandated students at a deeply subsidized rate. This was accomplished through Township financial support and LSTA's transportation system.

For the coming 2026-27 school year, the State has significantly reduced its municipal aid funding for Lakewood Township. As a result, the subsidy that helped fund this program for the past decade has been eliminated. There will no longer be any subsidies for these students to allay the full cost of up to $1177 per seat on the bus.

Understandably, this will impact many Lakewood families. LSTA has been able to reduce the full price of the seat to $945 per child for the 2026-27 school year. The $232 reduction is not a continuation of the township's subsidy. Rather, this was made possible due to the size and density of the Lakewood transportation routing network, together with the efficiencies and marketable purchasing power created by the volume of Lakewood routes.

The $945 rate reflects the adjusted costs available for 2026–27. Future pricing will be determined based on the funding and resources available for each respective school year.

What This Means For You:

If you would like your child to remain on a bus, please log into your family portal at www.lakewoodsta.org and opt in by Monday, August 24 at 11:00 PM.

Because routes are awarded based on both AM and PM seat, consistent with LSTA's standard practice, opt-in transportation is available for round-trip service only.

Families who have already paid $385 will have that amount applied toward the $945 cost, leaving a $560 balance per student, payable in another three installments. (This will be automatically applied upon submission of your opt-in form.)

Families who opt out of transportation will receive a refund for the $385 previously paid.

For families who need assistance accessing the portal or completing the opt-in, kiosks at the LSTA office will be open today, Thursday August 20th until 6 pm, Friday August 21st 9 am until 1 pm and Monday August 24th from 10 am until 10 pm.

If no action is taken by 11:00 pm Monday, your child will be opted out, and the routes will be adjusted and consolidated accordingly.

The Monday deadline is necessary so LSTA can promptly adjust routes, follow State requirements for awarding transportation routes, and provide vendors with the time needed to prepare for service beginning September 1st.

Due to the Township's budgeting schedule, the LSTA was only recently informed of the subsidy cessation. As this notice is coming very close to the start of the school year and will create an unexpected financial hardship for many families, we regret the timing and understand the difficulty this will present.

We are grateful that together with the Township, the LSTA was able to provide this deeply subsidized benefit to thousands of Lakewood families for an entire decade. We appreciate your understanding as we work to keep transportation as accessible as possible under the current funding structure.

 Lakewood Student Transportation Authority

Weather: 84° Cloudy early then strong thunderstorms developing this afternoon. Chance of rain 70%. Localized flooding is possible.

Flash flood watch issued Issued By  US, National Weather Service from 12pm today until late tonight  flash flooding caused by excessive rainfall continues to be possible. Rainfall rates of 1 to 3 inches per hour are possible.

7 Elul 3rd Yartzeit of Rav Aharon Shechter ZTL R"Y Chaim Berlin.

Yartzeit of R'Reuven Margulios (1889-1971). Author of over 50 books & sefarim including Margoliyos HaYam on Sanhedrin.

- The National Weather Service has issued a tornado watch in parts of New Jersey as waves of strong to severe thunderstorms are expected to move across the region Thursday afternoon and Thursday evening. The tornado watch was issued at 3 p.m. and covers seven counties in southern New Jersey: Atlantic, Burlington, Camden, Cape May, Cumberland, Gloucester and Salem.

- Frum Knesset member Threatens Consumer Boycott: United Torah Judaism lawmaker Meir Porush warned that the ultra-Orthodox community could leverage its annual spending of more than 52 billion shekels through a consumer boycott. He said religious leaders would issue instructions when necessary.

-  Today at Yeshiva South Fallsburg, the Rosh Yeshiva, Rav Elya Ber Wachtfogel shlita, announced that he will be limiting his daily shiur to three times a week. On the other days, his son-in-law, Rav Meir Weinstein shlita, will deliver the shiur. (Israel media)

- LSTA Raises price for non mandated to $945

- Lakewood Town Square has been transformed into a designated parking area, with the township painting individual parking spaces across the plaza. The change comes as Lakewood officials grapple with a growing homelessness problem along Clifton Avenue and in the downtown area. The square, which has historically served as a civic gathering space, has increasingly been used as an encampment by homeless individuals. The newly marked parking spaces appear to represent a significant change in how the township intends to use the property.

- Howell, banned data centers becoming the 33rd municipality in New Jersey to ban AI data centers. The ban was applauded by Howell residents, community leaders, and grassroots climate activists who worked with Howell Mayor John Leggio and township council members. The ordinance passed the all-Republican council by a unanimous vote.A data center proposal was submitted days before the ban was introduced, according to the Asbury Park Press.

- Jackson, officials demanded a second post office after a population boom, according to the APP

- The new charedi  “HaKahal” party  held primary elections for the list pf candidates final results with approximately 14,500 voters: Attorney Shlomo Alboim of Bnei Brak won the top spot.

- Shas leader Arye Deri met with Rav Yitzchak Yosef asking him to continue what his father started as spiritual leader of the party.

- More Than 1,100 Undocumented Immigrants Hold Driver’s Licenses in Lakewood according to the latest report from NJ Assemblyman.

- New Jersey recorded a sharp rise in bias incidents at churches, synagogues, temples and mosques during the first seven months of 2026, even as the state’s overall bias incident total held roughly steady, according to New Jersey State Police Uniform Crime Reporting data. The state logged 42 bias incidents at houses of worship from January through July 2026, up from 16 during the same period in 2025, a 163% increase, the statistics show. 

Anti-Jewish bias was the single largest religious motivation statewide, accounting for 387 cases, or roughly 21% of all bias motivations recorded from January through July. Anti-Islamic, or Anti-Muslim, bias accounted for 49 incidents

- Mamdani official reveals NYC may give grants to local grocers struggling to compete with the mayor’s city-run grocery stores.

- 11,000 Non-Resident Voters Confirmed as New Jersey’s Illegal Voting Scandal Grows: New Jersey election officials have removed more than 5,000 additional voter registrations and referred another 1,650 for county review.

- List of top 10 Israeli Yeshivos that received mosst funding through Keren Olam HaTorah from Juky 2024 - December 2025.  There many more yeshivos and kolelim on the list. Data from Israeli journalist 

Update: Airport workers return to work as flights resume with delays

Prime Mister Benjamin Netanyahu says Ben Gurion Airport will “continue to remain open and operate as usual” after workers at Israel’s main international airport staged a surprise work stoppage on the busiest travel day of the year so far. n a post on X, the premier says “Ben Gurion Airport will continue to remain open and operate as usual. Anyone who stands in the way  will fly home.”

Ben Gurion Airport is experiencing major disruption after workers staged an unexpected stoppage on what is expected to be the busiest travel day of the year, with arrivals halted from 2 p.m. and departures operating on a revised schedule. Around 107,000 passengers and 600 flights were expected, with some flights already disrupted. The Israel Airports Authority blamed the workers’ union, while the Histadrut denied ordering a strike and attributed the chaos to severe staffing shortages and inadequate preparation. Transportation Minister Miri Regev threatened legal action against those responsible

Chasunas:

Hayum - Rubin Neemas Hachaim

Weissman - Neuman Bais Faiga

Rosenberg - Moscovics Lake Terrace 

Feigenbaum - greenfield Ateres Chaim Elazar 

Polinsky  - Braun Kesser Moshe Yehuda 

Waidenbaum -Manowitz Fountain Ballroom 

Schwartz - Rottenberg Ateres Blima

Bittersfeld - Rothbaum Ateres Esther

· Trump: "No one has given the Islamic Republic of Iran a greater opportunity to make a Deal than me. TRAGICALLY, for them, they have failed to take it. Therefore, today, I am announcing the MOST CRUSHING ECONOMIC OPERATION EVER TAKEN AGAINST ANY COUNTRY! This will be Economic Warfare and Isolation on an unprecedented scale. Their navy is gone, their air force is destroyed, their military factories are now rubble, their currency is worthless, and their country is hanging by a thread. Today, I am also announcing that ANY country that allows its financial institutions, businesses, airports, or government entities to provide any type of lifeline to Iran will itself face TREMENDOUS Economic Consequences. Oil smuggling, swap lines, cash transfers, exchange houses, ship registries, front companies — It all needs to stop NOW. You know who you are. This will be an ECONOMIC D-DAY, and we need all of our Allies to stand with the United States of America to isolate, and defeat, the Iran threat. These maniacs are on the ropes, and these HISTORIC MEASURES will cripple them and their ability to project terror worldwide. IRAN WILL NEVER HAVE A NUCLEAR WEAPON. THANK YOU FOR YOUR ATTENTION TO THIS MATTER. President DONALD J. TRUMP"

- IDF: In a strike in the Al-Shati area: The IDF eliminated a company commander and three Nukhba platoon commanders in the Hamas terrorist organization. Yesterday (Tuesday), the IDF struck in the Al-Shati area and eliminated four Nukhba commanders from the Beit Lahia battalion in the military wing of the Hamas terrorist organization.

- Netanyahu: "We will not tolerate a Turkish military buildup in Syria that threatens Israel"

- Israeli officials directly warned Syrian officials in the days before the attack: "We know the Turks are on their way. This is a violation of the status quo." Israel realized relatively early on that the Turks apparently intended to create a permanent and significant military presence in Syria - and tried to avoid it through diplomatic warnings

- Trump on negotiating with Iran: "Maybe at some point, but right now, I think the situation is so good. But maybe at some point. Look, it's very simple. They have to get rid of them completely; they have to get rid of nuclear weapons. Iran cannot have a nuclear weapon. You know why? Because they use it. And we're not going to let them use it. So, Iran cannot have a nuclear weapon. And they won't."

- Hamas terror infrastructure and 5 launch pits destroyed by Paratrooper Brigade combat team forces. 

- FT: Iran eyes military targets in Europe if U.S. President Donald Trump escalates the war.

- U.S. Ambassador to Israel Mike Huckabee: "Washington is working to establish a mechanism to prevent conflicts between Israel, Turkey and Syria. Hamas has not yet delivered a single weapon; Trump may consider military action against Iran."

- Reports out of Gaza say six senior Hamas police officers were killed in the strike on the Hamas police station. Four held the rank of Akid, equivalent to an Israeli sub-commissioner. One held the rank of Ra'ad, equivalent to a superintendent. One held the rank of Amid, equivalent to a deputy commissioner. - N12.

- Iranian General Mohammad Reza Naqdi:The current president of the United States is extremely short-sighted and childish. He has no long-term vision. When he says something, he doesn't even think about what will happen 24 hours later. His statements have no foundation or consistency. I trust a taxi driver much more than I trust him. Don't take what he says too seriously 

-

 Weather: 88° Sunny to partly cloudy. Ret of week rainy forecast with thunderstorms through shabbos

6 Elul: The yahrtzeit of Rabbi Yom Tov Lipman Heller  known as the Tosfos Yom Tov.

- Yahrtzeit of Rabbi Shimshon Chaim Nachmani known as the Zera Shimshon.

- Giyus. Finance Ministry data presented to Attorney General Baharav-Miara reportedly shows charedi families receive government subsidies at much higher rates than other Jewish Israelis from property-tax and rent assistance to childcare, mortgages, and public transportation. The figures were presented amid the dispute over enforcing the military draft on charedim. 

- New study reveals high smartphone screen time among parents is linked to slower vocabulary growth in young children.

- The National Weather Service has issued a flood watch in New Jersey including Ocean county because of the threat of rapid flooding from heavy rain that's expected on Thursday, Aug. 20.Twelve counties in New Jersey have been placed under a flood watch issued by the National Weather Service at about 2:10 p.m. Wednesday, and it will be effective from noon on Thursday through 2 a.m. on Friday.

- Aliyah Debate on social media over how Israel can attract more American Orthodox Jews. Jake Turx argues Israel should build large-scale communities with housing, schools, shuls, shopping and professional networks tailored to Yeshivish and Chassidic families. Critics say aliyah necessarily requires adaptation. The broader question: Should American olim adapt to Israel, or should Israel build communities that make it easier for them to come as they are?

- Dr Rich Roberts of Lakewood is sitting Shiva for his mother Mrs. Ruth Gordon A"H, at 120 Arbutus Drive, Lakewood, NJ. Visiting hours are Wednesday through Monday at designated times, with Shacharis at 8:30 am and Mincha/Maariv 7:35/7:30 next week. Visiting is 10 am -12 pm  and 2pm - 5:30 pm and after mincha until 9 pm and on Motzei Shabbos, from 9:30–10:30 pm. All tefilos will be held in the kollel room; please use the front porch, left door.

- Boys elementary schools start today  expect traffic around the chadorim from drop offs and pick ups. The cheder Hachodosh opened today at the new Jackson location.

- Two change.org petitions launched to keep GroupMe SMS. HERE and HERE. Shuls that have the shul space and other platforms are not affected as they have their own text messaging technologies.

- A new report by Assemblyman Paul Kanitra estimates that more than 1,100 undocumented immigrants hold driver's licenses in Lakewood.

- Giyus: Breslov Chasidim traveling to Uman for Rosh Hashanah are planning to begin enlistment proceedings with the IDF so that they will be permitted to leave the country. This comes after the IDF announced that, following a change in policy at the airport, draft dodgers will not be allowed to leave Israel. CH13

- President Trump shows reporters a rendering of the new White House helipad, touting sweeping renovations to the property and saying people should see the work underway. "The White House was in terrible condition." Trump says the upgraded grounds will be used for major meetings, celebrations and visits from foreign leaders, including an expected visit from Chinese President Xi Jinping in the coming weeks

- $26 Million of New Jersey tax dollars go to pay for the legal defense of people that came here illegally. 

- The Ocean County road crew is doing construction on Cedarbridge Avenue in Lakewood, reconfiguring the concrete barrier at the intersection with Avenue of the States

- New Jersey REJECTS Trump Administration’s New MMR Vaccine Policy  State Says It Will Follow Its Own Guidance.

- Lakewood township will vote on the budget September 5 with a massive property tax increase expected.

- DHS Secretary Markwayne Mullin: Thank you, Gov Sherrill NJ We got news from your Secretary of State that New Jersey will participate with DHS in STOPPING aliens from illegally voting in your state. 
The 35,000 potential registered aliens we identified may only be the beginning look forward to helping NJ identify illegal voters and ensure election integrity

- Former Fauci adviser David Morens pleads guilty to conspiring to hide federal records about COVID-19 & its origins

- President Trump is celebrating Alex Vindman’s stunning Florida primary loss by reopening one of the biggest battles of his first term. “The most gratifying loss last night was that of a real treasonous creep, Alexander Vindman."The Dumocrats Fake Impeachment effort massively failed. Vindman should be prosecuted for what he did!" FOX

- Starting Jan. 1, about 540,000 New Jersey Medicaid recipients will face new federal requirements to maintain their coverage. Most adults ages 19 to 64 who receive Medicaid through the Affordable Care Act expansion will have to complete at least 80 hours per month of approved activities, such as work, school, vocational training, or volunteer work. Some parents, caregivers, and people with certain disabilities or medical conditions may qualify for exemptions. Affected NJ FamilyCare members will also have to renew their eligibility every six months instead of annually.

- On Monday, August 17, Lakewood Township EMS and the Lakewood Volunteer First Aid Squad participated in a joint training session on pediatric emergencies, led by the Medical Director, Dr. Matthew Letizia.

New Elul zman at Chevron Yeshiva

Chasunas:

Rubinfeld - Bleier Kesser Moshe Yehuda 

Feldhamer - Holtz Ateres  Chaim Elazar 

Wertzberger - Kalish Lake Terrace 

Aahkenassy - Freedman Fountain Ballroom 

Busel -  Schwartz Neemas Hachaim 

Muhlgey Bais Faiga

Stern - Cohen Ateres Esther

Lipman - Lewinstein Ateres Blima

Kiddush Levana opportunity 

- Yartzeit seuda of the Zera Shimshon with the participation of Rabbi Dovid Goldwasser shlita at the Mesameach building off Cedarbridge Avaa⁰e in Lakewood

Weather: 84° Cloudy with occasional rain showers. High 84F. Winds light and variable. Chance of rain 60%

- Lakewood Boys elementary yeshivos begin cheder tomorrow. 

- Trump: I have paused the 50% Tariffs against Canada, that were scheduled to kick in tomorrow morning for a three day period, based on the fact that Canada and the U.S.A., subject to the finalization of documents, have a DEAL! The great Keystone XL Pipeline, long ago killed by Sleepy Joe Biden, may be awoken from the grave! Thank you for your attention to this matter. President DONALD J. TRUMP

- BDE Petirah of Rebbetzin, Sarah Rochel Yisraelzon, a”h, daughter of Rav Yosef Shalom Elyashiv, zt”l, and the almana of  HaRav Yosef Yisrael Yisraelzon, zt”l, she fell Ill this week and was niftar at the age of 93. 

- Trump moves to accelerate development of psychedelic drug ibogaine as a treatment for serious mental illness, particularly among veterans.

- GroupMe is ending its two-way SMS service. Starting August 17, 2026, users will gradually receive a 7-day notice before group messages stop coming by text. After that, users will need the GroupMe app or website to participate in groups. Verification texts and invitations will still work.

- After 44 years, the remains of Sgt. First Class Yehuda Katz, who went missing during the 1982 Battle of Sultan Yacoub in Lebanon, have been recovered and returned to Israel. Katz was one of three Israeli soldiers who disappeared in the battle. The remains of his fellow soldiers Zachary Baumel and Zvi Feldman were recovered in 2019 and 2025, respectively. The IDF says Katz’s remains were located in an operation led by Military Intelligence with Mossad assistance and were positively identified before being returned for burial.

- Giyus: Israel’s Attorney General’s Office says Charedim still account for about 80% of draft evaders, despite an increase in Charedi enlistment. The office is calling for stronger enforcement, including economic sanctions and arrests, arguing that expanding the army is an urgent security need.

- Scientific study reveals TikTok videos deactivate key cognitive brain regions.

- 24 six Jewish music platform increases monthly premiums starting in September.

- FBI data for 2025 shows that Jews were the victims of 1,528 religion-based hate crimes, representing 63% of all religion-based hate crimes in the U.S. Muslims were next with 205 incidents. Overall hate crimes against Jews decreased from 2024, but Jews remained disproportionately targeted relative to their population size.

- One of the East Coast’s largest artificial intelligence data center projects is moving forward with its second phase after a controversial vote in New Jersey late Monday. The Vineland Planning Board voted 8-1 to approve the next phase of the massive DataOne campus after a meeting that stretched past 11 p.m. following hours of expert testimony and public comment.

- NJ Assemblyman Paul Kanitra: Our new report on the size, scope and cost of illegal immigration in NJ is now out. We’ve found a state so hopelessly compromised that we’ve officially requested federal intervention from the DOJ, DHS and House Judiciary Committee.

A staggering 8.2 Billion is being spent every single year on 737,000 illegal invaders in New Jersey. And it’s costing each of you $1,700 a year! If you rent, you can add another $1,000 annually onto that figure from illegals driving up housing costs. What’s even crazier is this is all despite an overall drop in illegals due to deportations.

- OHI and Wellpoint are hosting a free Back-to-School Community Day on Thursday, August 20, from 9:30 AM–12:30 PM at the Wellpoint Storefront, 100 Clifton Ave., Lakewood, NJ. Families can receive free backpacks and school supplies (while supplies last), plus glucose, blood pressure, and vision screenings and information about OHI services. Fulfill NJ will also distribute food from 10:30–11:30 AM

- LPD Traffic Alert: New Central Ave closed between Gudz Rd & Miller Rd due to a motor vehicle accident with a downed utility pole and wires. Avoid the area.

- The Israeli Prime Minister's Office has confirmed, in a statement in English, the attack by the Israeli Air Force in Syria: "Israel and Syria had agreed to maintain the status quo on security matters, which Syria was about to violate by allowing TURKISH FORCES to operate at an air base near Aleppo. Israel repeatedly warned Syria that such a deployment would pose a threat to Israel's security. Syria chose to ignore these warnings. Israel will not tolerate threats to its security and welcomes a return to the status quo."

- IDF Says Gaza Port Strike Targeted Nukhba Commanders: The IDF said it targeted Nukhba terrorists meeting at a café in Gaza City’s port, including a company commander, three platoon commanders and other militants; Palestinians reported six people killed. According to the IDF, one target participated in the 7 October massacre, and precautions were taken to minimize harm to civilians.

- US Sanctions ICC President  The US Treasury announced new sanctions against International Criminal Court.

- Trump: There are no talks or conversations going on, or scheduled, with the Islamic Republic of Iran. The Naval Blockade remains in full force and effect. The Hormuz Strait is open and operating. All water mines have been removed or detonated. Thank you for your attention to this matter! President DONALD J. TRUMP

- Trump posts an image with the caption : “Strait of Hormuz - New US Territory” (see below) 

- Iranian Deputy Foreign Minister Kazem Garibabadi Responds to Trump's post: "Soon His Illusion Regarding the Strait of Hormuz Will Be Corrected - Or We Will Correct His Illusions"

- The IDF eliminated an Islamic Jihad commander who infiltrated Kibbutz Be'eri and abducted an Israeli civilian during the October 7th Massacre.

- Reports of IDF warplanes attacking the Abu al-Duhur air base in eastern Idlib, Syria, in four airstrikes last night, targeting the runway. The attack came after footage was released of Su-22s conducting training flights over northern Syria.

- Senior Israeli official to Fox News when asked about the reported Israeli strikes in Syria overnight: “Highly sensitive intelligence was shared with the United States in advance, at the most senior levels of the various agencies and bodies," the official said. “Al-Sharaa understands that he cannot operate like the previous Syrian regime, which maintained proxy forces. It’s possible that he didn’t understand what was going on, or didn’t 

- Hamas not giving up weapons: Despite reports that Hamas has agreed to begin the process of disarmament, Khaled Qadoumi, Hamas' official representative in Tehran, declares that "the weapons will remain as long as there is occupation."

- Ghalibaf, the head of the Iranian negotiating delegation, clarifies: We will not open the Strait of Hormuz until the following conditions are met: Lifting the naval blockade on Iran.  Releasing frozen Iranian assets. Lifting sanctions on oil. Cessation of threats and military operations on all fronts: Lebanon, Gaza, Iraq and Yemen.  Fulfilling the other conditions set out in the memorandum of understanding.

- US Special Envoy to Syria Tom Barrack:

We are deeply concerned that the confirmed Israeli airstrikes on Abu al-Duhur Airbase constitute an unnecessary escalation that does not advance regional stability. The United States continues to believe that restraint and engagement offer the more constructive course. We encourage all parties to prioritize logical discourse over further military incidents.

- Trump: “Strait of Hormuz - New US Territory”

Chasunas:

Kanarek - Olshin Neemas Hachaim 

Fishman  - Blau cedar Palace

Lichtenstein - Halpern Kesser Moshe Yehuda 

Kagan - Lokensky Bais Faiga

Stefansky -Silberberg Ateres  Chaim Elazar 

LPD Traffic Alert: Martin Luther King Drive will be closed from Wynatt St to John St for planned NJNG construction. Plan alternate route if possible.

Weather: 88° Cloudy early with peeks of sunshine expected late. A stray shower or thunderstorm is possible. 

- Likud Primary Vote Count Begins: Likud has begun counting ballots from 503 polling stations across 107 locations. Tens of thousands of forms are being reviewed by local committees before a general count at the control center, with final results expected in the morning and party officials predicting surprises in the candidate list. 

- AOC is distancing herself from past positions on defunding police, prison abolition, & decriminalizing border crossings ahead of a potential 2028 run. Axios

- Rav Avrohom Yehoshua Solovwitchik delivered shiur today for the new zman as he takes up a new residence closer to the yeshiva.

- The New Jersey Department of Treasury has started the process of sending eligible New Jersey residents their ANCHOR benefit confirmation letters. These letters are for homeowners and renters who meet the eligibility requirements for the tax year 2025

- Moadim LSimcha order deadline today for upcoming Yomim Tovim

- Lakewood residents can register their bicycles for free through the LakewoodPDConnect app. Registration helps police identify and return lost, stolen, or recovered bikes

- Rides today at Hearthstone park in Lakewood for a fee.

- Georgian Court University in Lakewood expects about 2,000 students for the 2026–27 academic year, with increases in both freshman and transfer enrollment. Nursing programs are seeing especially strong demand.

Moishas supermarket in Howell expected to open before the yom tov shopping season. No word yet on when.

- A Middlesex County resident has become New Jersey’s first confirmed case of Zika virus since 2020, according to the state health department

- BDE: A 7-Year-Old Dies After Beit Shemesh Stabbing: A 7-year-old boy critically wounded in a stabbing at his home in Beit Shemesh was pronounced dead at Hadassah Ein Kerem Hospital. His 4-year-old brother was also stabbed and remains in serious condition. The Two children reportedly injured in attack by mentally disturbed neighbor, police on the scene as investigation continues.

- New Jersey - today is due date number 1 !! Voter records are due to House Representatives from New Jersey by 5:00pm. House Judiciary Chair Jim Jordan and House Administration Chair Bryan Steil gave NJ Secretary of State Dr. Dale Caldwell until 5:00pm today to produce a massive trove of physical and digital records.

- BDE: Reb Hershel Landau Z”L, Rosh Hakuhol of Shenya and Longtime Proprietor of Landau’s Grocery in Boro Park.

- New Jersey’s food insecurity rate jumped 75% in four years

- Municipalities and school districts owed New Jersey’s public worker health programs nearly $50.5 million in arrearages earlier this year, months before experts recommended steep rate increases for health plans that insure hundreds of thousands of school and government workers.

- Jared Kushner to Fox News: “We could see progress in Gaza within a month, hopefully we'll start removing some of the weapons, and hopefully we'll close some of the tunnels in the next three months"

- Trump: The number one Goal is, and always will be, that Iran cannot have, in any way, shape, or form, a Nuclear Weapon. Thank you for your attention to this matter! President DONALD J. TRUMP

- Trump on the upcoming elections in Israel: I think it's best for me not to get involved in it, but I might enforse someone.

- Trump said the Israelis should not be striking in Gaza because he says Hamas has agreed to lay down their weapons after that meeting yesterday in Egypt between senior Hamas leadership and Jared Kushner, along with the American mediators on the ground.

- Netanyahu: Gaza reconstruction  will not  begin until Hamas is disarmed. The Prime Minister’s Office says Israel and the Board of Peace agreed to establish a working group focused on the prompt disarmament and demilitarization of Gaza, to be completed before reconstruction begins. A second working group will address sanitation, clean water and other public-health issues affecting both Gaza and Israel.

- US-Iran MoU expires with no breakthroughs between Washington, Tehran. An Iranian official has claimed that no talks of an extension took place, that the United States violated the interim agreement just 48 hours after it was reached, and that it later withdrew from it.

- Trump: “There is a back channel with the IRGC. These are the hard-line officials inside of Iran, and the United States and officials in Washington are speaking directly with IRGC officials in Iran.” He said there is no timeline, so the 60-day window expiring today is largely irrelevant to the president's thinking on Iran. Again, he indicated the United States has a lot of mid-level weapons to use if they're needed in the future."

- Trump to Fox News: "Iran should raise a white flag and surrender. I have no timetable, I'm in no hurry." The president added that the midterm elections do not affect his decisions regarding Iran

- Iran reveals an “understanding” has been reached with Oman on a new Strait of Hormuz transit route.

-Senior Iranian official to Reuters: Tehran has decided to transition from a defensive policy to a full-fledged offensive policy. Iran has set a deadline of a few weeks to fully implement the memorandum of understanding with the United States.

- Israel officials are reporting that Netanyahu criticized Kushner for his meeting with Hamas leaders and emphasized that the security operations in Gaza will continue. After the meeting, Kushner and Mladenov met with President Herzog. According to the political source, the agreements reached stipulate: No reconstruction will be carried out in the Gaza Strip as a whole without the complete disarmament of Hamas; The first step towards disarming the Strip is that Hamas will hand over all its weapons for destruction under supervision; Maintaining the freedom of operation of the IDF and continuing the policy of preventative measures; Sanitation operations will be carried out in Gaza to prevent the spread of epidemics.

- Iranian Foreign Ministry Spokesperson on Ending 60-Day Ceasefire with the United States: “There is no clause in the text of the Memorandum of Understanding titled "60-Day Deadline." The Islamic Republic of Iran never formulates its policy under pressure, ultimatums, or time constraints. What was stipulated in the memorandum was a mere 60-day period for discussions on two issues: "Removal of Sanctions" and "The Nuclear Issue." With the possibility of extending this period. Due to the blatant and widespread violation of the June 18 Memorandum of Understanding by the United States, just a few weeks after its signing, the talks did not even begin. As a result, the issue of the 60-day deadline has completely lost its meaning."

The boys are back from camp. The shofar has sounded, and so has the kol Torah, as Elul Zman 5786 begins.

A short chavrusah tumul took place in Bais Medrash Govoha, with the yeshiva learning Maseches Bava Kama, which appears to be a popular limud in other yeshivos as well.

Other yeshivos and mesivtos across Lakewood began last week, before Shabbos, while others began on Monday. Several new mosdos for both mesivta- and bais medrash-age bochurim have opened their doors for the new year, including new out-of-town mesivtos in Keyport, NJ, and Far Rockaway.

At BMG, renovations have been completed in the Forest Beis Medrash, and the new campus in Jackson has been added. Other yeshivos have also upgraded their facilities and expanded in preparation for the new zman.

Many youngeleit have moved out to out-of-town kollelim, joining existing kollelim or starting new ones, including in local and international communities such as Johannesburg, South Africa; Savannah, Georgia; Pittsburgh, PA; Columbus, OH; and more.

In Yeshiva of  Long Beach, the year begins in the Catskills at camp Morris until after labor day

In Eretz Yisroel, Ponovezh Yeshiva now counts over 2,500 talmidim. This year, the yeshiva administration constructed two new dormitory floors.

At the Brisker Kollel  in Yerushalayim the long time magid shiur Rav Simcha Maimon shlita has opened a new yeshiva, in his place 

Rav Yehoshua Soloveitchik Shlita (son of Rav Leibel) will deliver the shiurim on Kodshim.

At Brisk  yeshiva on Rechov Press, Rav Avrohom Yehoshua Soloveitchick shlita is hopeful to resume full time delivering shiurim after recuperating from health issues before the summer. 

Mir Yeshiva  plans to expand around the Bais Yisroel neighborhood  and a massive construction project that will connect the buildings to each other. What was once an open-door policy for American bochurim has now shifted, as the hanhalah has tightened admissions with rigorous farhers, making acceptance more competitive.

Yeshiva Ateres Shlomo headed by Rav Shalom Ber Sorotzkin, Zman Elul opened with approximately 1,350 talmidim. The yeshiva constructed a new, spacious dormitory building with approximately 200 additional beds.

They also built a special dining hall for the kibbutz students, because of the overcrowding in the regular dining hall.

In Baltimore, Yeshiva Ner Yisroel continues to flourish with close to 1000 talmidim from Mechina through Kollel including 230 youngeleit. Some avreichim will be takibg on leadership loaitions and joining kollelim Indianapolis, Atlanta, Columbus and Passaic. The yeshiva upgraded facilities including the construction of a new gym for the talmidim. The annual budget is 14 million. 

Yeshiva mesivta Chaim  Berlin begins the zman in Brooklyn with a packed Bais Medrash 

Yeshiva Torah Vodaath in Brooklyn has an enrollment of over one thousand Talmidim. 

Night seder for baalei batim has resumed as well, with a new programs opening in the greater Lakewood  area. The hustle and bustle of the zman is back, as the quiet days of summer vacation draw to a close. Boys’ elementary schools will begin this Wednesday, while girls’ schools will start after Labor Day, on September 3rd.

Q&A

Questions posed to Rav Yitzchok Zilberstein shlita ahead of the new zman by his Talmid Rabbi Yitzchak Zicherman.

Q: When a child is sick, should the mother or the father stay home? The mother works, while the father studies in kollel.

A: The kollel should be understanding, but the family should first try to find outside help such as grandparents so the father can continue learning. The responsibility should not automatically fall on the father simply because the mother works

Q. Is it appropriate for a rosh kollel to reprimand a yungerman about maintaining  shmiras hasdorim the learning schedule, or about talking? And what about a yungerman who is sometimes late, disrupting the kollel’s schedule and causing a general weakening of standardsis it appropriate to dismiss him after he has been warned?

A: Dismissing him is out of the question. He’s not Achmad; these are Bnei Torah. How could you even think of such a thing? What needs to be done is to find out what lies behind his lateness and try to understand what is troubling him, and then try to solve the problem and help him. Above all, we need to explain to that yungerman that he has the ability to merit reaching status of a King.

Q: Should computers be allowed in kollel study halls for research? They can help find sources and answers, but may reduce the effort of studying Torah independently.

A: True Torah scholarship was developed for generations without computers. While computers can make research easier and may be helpful given the challenges of today, the ideal and authentic path is עמל התורה  the hard work and effort of studying Torah independently.

Q: Phones in Kollel Should an exception be made for an avrech whose wife is close to giving birth to bring a phone inside the B"M and wants reliable access?

A: Generally no. Only in an exceptional, very pressing situation may the rosh kollel allow a phone discreetly, on silent/vibrate.

Q: Should a rosh kollel learn with a weaker avrech Even if it takes time away from his own learning?

A: Absolutely. Sitting and learning with a struggling avrech is a great act of kindness and highly valued.

Q: An avrech who studies until 3 a.m Should lateness to kollel be excused because he was deeply immersed in learning?

A: No. Proper sleep is necessary. Staying up so late and disrupting the morning schedule is not the right approach.

Q: How much should a rosh kollel sacrifice for the kollel. Should he give up some of his own learning progress for the needs of the kollel?

A: Yes. The sacrifice for others is itself a great gain. Torah is acquired through chesed kindness.

Chasunas:

Samuels  Pashkes Neemas Hachaim 

Schreiber  - Benedikt Cedar Palace 

- Hespedim and divrei zikaron  tonight for the 2nd yartzeit of Rav Avrohom Ausband ZTL 8 30 pm  at Yeshiva Ohr HaTorah, 780 Vasser Ave, Lakewood, with the hishtatfus of Harav Malkiel Kotler, Rav Moshe Mayerfeld  shlita and the Rosh HaYeshiva of Riverdale Rav Eliyohu Ausband Shlita.

- 100th Yartzeit of the Ohr Sameach Rav Meir Simcha Hakohen ZTL of Dvinsk. There will be a evening of Torah and Chizuk with crashes by Rav Yankel Drill man shlita, Rav Uren Reich shlita Rav Lipa Geldwirth shlita at the Torah Links B"M 1301 Central Ave Lakewood 7:30 pm

- Selichos Minyanim in Lakewood for Sefardim Elul תשפ"ו. Most minyanim start 45 minutes before the scheduled time for shachris

 Weather: 83° Partly cloudy this morning. Increasing clouds with periods of showers this afternoon. High 83F. Chance of rain 60%.

- Widespread showers and the potential for localized flash flooding will arrive in New Jersey Sunday evening and last through Monday morning. Rainfall totals of 1 to 2 inches are possible in some areas, which could lead to flash flooding, particularly in urban areas and locations with poor drainage

- Granola sold nationwide on Amazon is recalled over potential salmonella contamination.

-Trump: Based on my very good relationship with Kim Jong Un, of North Korea, I am not happy with the fact that the United States has, long ago, agreed to participate in Joint Military Exercises with South Korea. These exercises are not only costly, with much of these costs paid for by the United States of America (as usual!), but send a signal that is totally inappropriate and hostile, to a Country that, as long as Donald J. Trump has been President, has been unthreatening and respectful. Therefore, and based on the fact that it is too late to cancel, I have instructed Secretary of War, Pete Hegseth, to substantially reduce the Joint Military Exercises! While somewhat unrelated (?), I recently asked the President of South Korea if they would like to join us in the Denuclearization of the Islamic Republic of Iran, and they said, “No thanks!” Thank you for your attention to this matter. President DONALD J. TRUMP

- 3 Elul Yartzeit of R'Shraga Feivel Mendlowitz (1886-1948). Rebbe & Menahel in Torah Vodaas. Founded Torah Umesorah with a goal of setting up day schools in every major city in America. 

- Majority of U.S. voters say they are financially worse off since Trump took office, according to a Financial Times poll

- GSP North was shut down  to to an accident at mile marker 135.

- 100th Yartzeit of the Ohr Sameach Rav Meir Simcha Hakohen ZTL of Dvinsk. There will be several events in Lakewood. Rav Michoel Sorotzkin will speak at Lutzk B"M 1pm

- There will be a evening of Torah and Chizuk with crashes by Rav Yankel Drill man shlita, Rav Uren Reich shlita Rav Lipa Geldwirth shlita at the Torah Links B"M 1301 Central Ave Lakewood 7:30 pm

- Moadim LSimcha sukkos order deadline is Tomorrow August 17

- Frum Schools are tightening enforcement of unpaid tuition balances ahead of the upcoming school year. Some schools will not complete registration or reserve spots for students until outstanding balances are paid.

- Attorney General Todd Blanche announces that he has officially received the criminal referral for Anthony Fauci and an investigation is currently underway.

- Giyus: Reports that Agudah Yisroel party has offered the Bnei Torah Yerushalmi faction to join for the upcoming elections welcoming them and giving them a slate for  representatives.

- Meat prices soar. Besidea for the shortage i. Tge kosher market due to a fire at Agri processors. U.S. cattle herd plunges to a nearly 50-year low, sending beef prices to record highs.

- BDE: Petirah of Rav Avrohom Yitzchok “Avry” Juravel zt”l, one of the foremost experts in contemporary kashrus, whose extraordinary command of halacha, coupled with a rare mastery of the technical realities of modern food production, made him a trusted authority in the field for more than four decades. Rav Juravel, who was a resident of Monsey, NY, had battled illness and medical challenges the last few years with tremendous strength and fortitude. Rav Juravel was widely known through his longtime work with OU Kosher, where he served as Rabbinic Coordinator for Technical Services. Levaya inspiring Valley today 11am at Khal Zichron Yitzchok(Matzav)

- Ponovezh  a judge has enforced the arbitration notifying the yeshiva under the leadership of Rav Shmuel Markowitz shlita that they must vacate the current location by September as ler the ruling.

-  South Korea proposes talks with North Korea to formally end the 70 year old Korean conflict.

- Hurricane Lala is pounding Hawaii with torrential rain and dangerous winds after narrowly missing a direct landfall. The storm is far from finished, and at least one person has been killed. Meanwhile, historic flooding in Indiana has killed at least five people, prompting President Trump to approve an emergency declaration for the state.

- Those who ascend  the Har Habayis have now been  allowed to bring a siddur along with them by Israeli police.  Most poskim forbid going on the temple mount. 

Video: Habachur Yosef Levi  of Yeshivas Porat Yosef is released from IDF military Prison after 3 months. His father sat outside the jail for 42 days protesting his sentence.

- Trump: "Very happy to see that Saudi Arabia, Turkey, and Pakistan have recently, and finally, signed the Mecca Joint Defence Agreement. It shows how the Middle East is coming together, and how Countries will finally be able to defend themselves in a more meaningful way. Congratulations to the Great Leadership of the three Nations mentioned. THIS IS A BIG, BOLD, AND IMPORTANT FIRST STEP — WOW! President DONALD J. TRUMP"

- Details from the rare meeting: Senior Hamas officials assured Kushner of their commitment to disarming, according to a source familiar with the meeting. The source said that the meeting, which lasted 90 minutes, was "very productive" and that "it was important for Kushner to receive this commitment from them personally."

- The Israeli "Order 9" movement strongly condemns the decision by U.S. envoy Jared Kushner to meet with leaders of the Hamas terrorist organization before meeting with Israeli leadership: Following the October 7th massacre, there can be no legitimacy or justification for engaging with Hamas murderers. Simply sitting down with them at the table gives a reward to terrorism, while the organization continues to control the Gaza Strip and arm itself in violation of all agreements. Israel must clearly state to its partners in the United States: There will be no reconstruction of Gaza without the complete disarmament of Hamas and its removal from control of the Strip. We will not agree to any plan that allows this terrorist monster to continue to exist, control, and threaten the citizens of Israel and the soldiers of the IDF. The reality of October 6th will not return.(Jewish warrior)

- Trump: I will very soon declare the Strait of Hormuz as United States territory."

- Trump on the US attacking Iran: Q: What if it's right before the midterms? Do you care?

Trump: Could be. But people are looking at gasoline prices. They like the fact that I'm stopping this lunatic nation from having an atomic bomb. They can not have nuclear weapons

- Hamas planning talks with US, Board of Peace head to push Gaza plan nixed by Netanyahu

- The IDF announces that it eliminated a battalion commander in Hezbollah's "Radwan Force" unit last night - in response to Hezbollah's violation of the ceasefire.

- Israeli strikes reported in south Lebanon as Defense Minister Katz vows to ‘settle scores’

Reported nighttime attacks come day after three soldiers were seriously injured by Hezbollah drone Lebanese media reported Israeli airstrikes in the Ali Taher Ridge in southern Lebanon Saturday overnight, With fighting threatening to ramp up in Lebanon and in Gaza, Defense Minister Israel Katz said in a Sunday morning post on X: “No score on any front will remain unsettled.”

- Iranian Foreign Minister Araghchi: No decision yet to resume negotiations with the US

- Three IDF soldiers were seriously injured in southern Lebanon. IDF attacks Hezbollah infrastructure in southern Lebanon in response, eliminating a commander in the organization.

- Al Jazeera, citing a Palestinian source: Kushner will meet shortly in Cairo with the Hamas leadership, in the presence of senior officials from Qatar, Egypt, and Turkey. Kushner decided to meet with the Hamas leadership in Cairo before continuing to Tel Aviv for a meeting with the Israeli Prime Minister.

- Israeli Air Force Strikes Terrorist in Southern Gaza: The Israeli Air Force struck a terrorist in a displaced persons’ tent in Khan Younis, southern Gaza

- Lebanese Al Jadeed from official sources: Iran has conveyed a direct message that an Israeli attack on the Ali al-Tahrir ridge will be met with escalation from Iran.

- IDF Says Senior Hezbollah Commander Killed: The IDF said it killed Abu Hassan Alaa, a senior commander in Hezbollah’s Badr unit, in the Deir al-Zahrani area last night. It said he had helped advance attacks, including launching explosive drones at forces in southern Lebanon

- New York Times: Shortly after the start of the Iran war in late February, Iran attacked the US naval base in Bahrain and destroyed large parts of it, including a major logistics center. As a result, the US Navy in the Middle East moved its logistics center to the British island of Diego Garcia in the Indian Ocean, more than 3,500 km from the center of operations of the aircraft carriers stationed in the fight against Iran

Showers and thunderstorms are expected to move into the state Sunday and linger into Monday, bringing the potential for heavy rainfall and localized flash flooding. The National Weather Service says precipitation is likely to arrive by mid- to late-morning Sunday, with coverage increasing through the afternoon and evening hours.

- Elul zman begins tonight in BMG

- Giyus: Major shake-up in the chareidi world: A new chareidi political party reportedly called “Tzeva Shachor” (“Black Color”) is expected to be formed. Rabbanim and roshei yeshivos from across the mainstream chareidi community Litvish, Sephardi, and Chassidish have reportedly decided to establish the party, whose sole focus will be the fight against mandatory military enlistment and for a draft exemption. The party is expected to target the nearly 100,000 draft evaders, along with their families and friends, in an effort to draw votes away from Shas and United Torah Judaism (UTJ).

- Trump tonight: The Senate must vote on the NO MORE CHANGING THE CLOCKS ACT as soon as possible. More sun later in the day is better (including for fighting crime!), but, even more importantly, NO MORE RIDICULOUSLY CHANGING CLOCKS AND WATCHES TWICE YEARLY, with all of the disruption and chaos it causes. FINALLY, GET IT DONE!!! President DJT

- SpaceX launches Falcon 9 rocket for US Space Force mission

- A deranged Lunatic attacked congregant at NYC reform Central synagogue on Friday night, spit at security guard in antisemitic attack. Relatives say he is mentally deranged and wants to convert to Judaism.

- The former Bass River Elementary School was approved to be converted into a private yeshiva religious school with dormitory space. The Bass River Township Planning Board voted 6-0-1 to approve a use variance for Maple River LLC, clearing a major land-use hurdle for the former school property at 11 North Maple Avenue.

-A Rare summer rain storm breaks Yerushalayim all-time August rainfall record in one hour. The Israel Meteorological Service says 11 mm fell in Ma’ale Adumim within 60 minutes, breaking the August record since measurement

- Missing Israeli Mother and Daughter Found Safe: Mali and Liel Yahalomi, who disappeared in Vienna last week, were found alive in Buenos Aires after an international search led by Lahav 433 and Israeli police intelligence teams working 24/7. Police said they left voluntarily, faced no danger or threats, and were released after questioning found no suspicion of criminal activity; their family expressed immense relief and thanked everyone involved

- Indonesia Earthquake Death Toll Rises to 20: At least 20 people were killed and two remain trapped under rubble after a 7.7-magnitude earthquake struck Flores Island. Waves below one meter were observed in several areas, and officials said some victims died under the rubble while sleeping.

בֶּן אָדָם, מַה לְּךָ נִרְדָּם, קוּם קְרָא בְּתַחֲנוּנִים. שְׁפֹךְ שִׂיחָה, דְּרֹשׁ סְלִיחָה, מֵאֲדוֹן הָאֲדוֹנִים

- Sefardim first selichos at the kosel

Belzer rebbe sings Hamavdil to the sefardi tune of the selichos חטאנו לפניך as Adot Hamizrachbegin saying selichos tonight

Friday, August 14, 2026 / א׳ אלול תשפ"ו ערב שבת פרשת שופטים ראש חודש אלול
- Candle lighting 7:36 pm
-Shkia/ sunset 7:54 pm

weather shabbos day High 83° Sunny

1 מה נאוו על ההרים רגלי מבשר משמיע שלום מבשר טוב משמיע ישועה אמר לציון מלך אלהיך

( מן ההפטרה ,אנכי אנכי הוא מנחמכם )

Friday, August 14, 2026 / א׳ אלול תשפ״ו ערב שבת פרשת שופטים ראש חודש אלול

Candle lighting 7:36 pm

Shkiah 7:54 pm

Weather : Sunshine and clouds mixed. High near 85

Shabbos day sunny hi 83°

- Missing Israeli Mother and Daughter Found Safe: Mali and Liel Yahalomi, who disappeared in Vienna last week, were found alive in Buenos Aires after an international search led by Lahav 433 and Israeli police intelligence teams working 24/7. Police said they left voluntarily, faced no danger or threats, and were released after questioning found no suspicion of criminal activity; their family expressed immense relief and thanked everyone involved

 - Trump: “Our beautiful World War II Memorial was just hit by Spray Painting Vandals. THERE CAN BE NO GREATER INSULT TO THOSE AMERICAN HEROES WHO DIED IN WORLD WAR II. First the Reflecting Pool, now this. We are on their trail! Where do these animals come from??? President DJT”

- Elul zman begins in BMG this Motzei Shabbos

Other Yeshivos in Lakewood started last night

- Last night, the Lakewood Township Committee held its monthly meeting virtually. The entire meeting lasted approximately six minutes.

There were no public comments submitted, and the Board approved all of the items on the agenda. Committeeman Ackerman was absent.

Notably, there was no discussion of the major tax increase that is coming. The committee will hold a final vote on the budget at an upcoming meeting.

- The Vizhnitzer Rebbe issued a clear directive that Vizhnitzer chassidim and the broader Chareidi public should not enlist in the Israeli military under any circumstances. He also called on parents and educators to strengthen children in emunah and mesirus nefesh.

- Giyus: The Vizhnitzer Rebbe issued a clear directive that Vizhnitzer chassidim and the broader Chareidi public should not enlist in the Israeli military under any circumstances. He also called on parents and educators to strengthen children in emunah and mesirus nefesh

- Jackson Township has officially adopted its 2026 municipal budget, delivering a 0% increase in municipal taxes for residents, Mayor Jennifer Kuhn announced Thursday. The budget’s approval concludes a lengthy process aimed at balancing the Township’s operating and service needs while limiting additional financial pressure on local taxpayers.

Joe Rogan on his podcast  alleges that Fauci knew COVID vaccines were causing miscarriages but publicly promoted vaccination anyway. He cites Fauci's private discussion of a possible cytokine-related risk, says he personally knows five women who miscarried after vaccination, calls Fauci a sociopath.

- A Middlesex County resident has become New Jersey’s first confirmed case of Zika virus since 2020, according to the state health department.

State health officials learned of the case on July 15. The risk to residents is extremely low, officials said

- Rav Binyomin Finkel shlita Mashgiach Mir Yeshiva is currently in Deal, NJ raising funds for the Yeshiva.

- A BMG sign has gone up on Hope Chapel Road at the former Jackson school, which BMG acquired earlier this year. While the property is now clearly being marked as BMG space, there are currently no plans announced for whether Talmidim will be learning there or what the campus’s specific future use will be.

- The pressure at Ben Gurion Airport is worsening, with disruptions affecting nearly every part of airport operations, including aircraft handling and baggage loading.⁣

⁣Sources familiar with the situation say hundreds of passengers’ bags are being left behind in Israel after ground crews were unable to complete baggage loading before some flights departed.⁣

For some travelers, the problem only becomes apparent after landing abroad: the plane arrives, but their luggage remains at Ben Gurion Airport.⁣ Passengers arriving in Israel are also reporting lengthy waits to receive their bags

- 

.

יעלה ויבוא

  אומרים לדוד ה' אורי וישעי יום ב' דר"ח אלול

Chasunas:

Gewirtzman - Matthew Kesser Moshe Yehuda 

Isbee  - Leahinski Ateres Reva 

Katzenstein - Lederer Cedar Palace 

Reiss - Kohn Ateres  Esther

Friedman - Herman Bais Faiga

Alt - Spillman Fountain Ballroom 

Safdieh - Orgil Ateres  Bluma

Hashkafa With Rav Gershon Ribner Shlita 

Re-Join Yeshiva This Elul: Live Daily Iyun Shiur with Rav Gershon Ribner Shlita! Here 

Naive mistake many make in preparation for Bar Mitzvah

Being chauffeured by Tesla Type of questions invited to be addressed at this forum

The Israeli government’s power over yeshivos that accepted financial assistance Learning with your son can enhance or can strain a relationship  video: Being chauffeured by Tesla

 Weather: Sunny to partly cloudy. High 88F.

- Update: Bingo sold out of the Doona stroller

- LPD Traffic Alert: Joe Parker Rd will be closed from Lanes Mill Rd to Long Beach Ave for planned Ocean County construction. Plan alternate route if possible.

-$1.04 Billion Powerball Jackpot Won in Illinois

- בן אדם מה לך נרדם.  Sefardim will begin saying selichos Sunday morning 

- Moadim L'Simcha Sukkos order deadline August 17

- Traffic light coming to Cedarview and  county line rd. In addition the speed limit on county line rd  in Lakewood will be lowered.

- Sunday there will be a series of shiurim commemorating Tav Meir Simcha of Dvinsk on his Yartzeit at the Central Court shul in Lakewood 

- Bingo appliance furniture kids bikes sale going on now. Donna stroller for $300.

- Lakewood township committee meeting today virtual only 5:30 pm watch livestream Here see agenda Here

  On the agenda  a traffic signal for the County Line Road and Cedarview intersection would be added as well as the lowering of the speed limit on County Line Road within the Township of Lakewood, the County of Ocean 

Zoning  change update for CHEMED medical village Maximum Height - 75 feet (for parking structuresMaximum Building Height - 120 feet.Prohibited Uses, except these uses are permitted or needed for a for Medical Village:a. Schools, houses of worship, and institutions of higher education.  However, if an institution of higher education chooses to sponsor a medical laboratory, high technology industry office, research and development facility, or engineering offices and laboratories, such a use shall be permitted.

- Some girls schools have bounced they will start on Sept 1.

- BP24 Report: According to close sources, many grocery stores in Boro Park will temporarily stop accepting SCN following a collaborative meeting where the legality of the program was discussed. Although the stores have been operating legally, many have chosen to pause accepting SCN for the time being as they review the situation

- Ben Shapiro on a Marco Rubio run for President in 2028: “You run against JD and lose, you're done. You run against JD, you win, it's a rough election cycle, and the country is in the mood for something new, and you lose. You don't run, JD may pick you as his VP candidate, JD loses, you're next. JD does not pick you, and JD loses; you're also next

- In a letter to eight U.S. airlines, New Jersey Rep. Frank Pallone, the ranking member on the House Energy and Commerce Committee, is requesting information on whether they’re using consumers’ personal data, also known as “surveillance pricing,” to set ticket prices. Pallone’s move comes just weeks after New Jersey Governor Mikie Sherrill signed a pair of bills banning grocery stores from applying surveillance pricing on groceries and prohibiting landlords from using rent-setting algorithms.

- NJ's budget cuts $266 million from state Medicaid funding. Federal Medicaid funding to NJ increased $1 billion. Democrats spent the summer blaming Washington for Medicaid cuts. Their own Commissioner confirmed the truth. Their own Treasurer confirmed the truth."They cut Medicaid to pay for their own pork, then turned around and blamed Washington for it."(NJ Assembly)

- Secretary of War Pete Hegseth on Cuba: All options are on the table regarding Cuba, including military action. They are certainly not a worthy adversary for us.

- The Trump administration has proposed sweeping changes to Head Start that would make many of the preschool programs’ supports for families optional and bring big changes to New Jersey’s 191 preschool centers. Advocates say the changes could greatly diminish services for the roughly 12,400 New Jersey children, from birth through age 5, enrolled in Head Start programs. The Trump administration’s proposed reforms include sweeping new rules about how Head Start money can be spent — including reducing the funding that can be used for the administration of programs from 15% to 5%.

- Former acting U.S. Attorney for New Jersey Alina Habba is among the "early front-runners" for the White House Press Secretary job following Karoline Leavitt’s departure at the end of the month, "sources within and close to the administration

Video: Hachzokas Mekomos at Yeshiva Ateres Shlomo as Elul zman begins

- US CENTCOM Commander Admiral Brad Cooper is actively pushing for renewed US strikes on Iran, together with Israel, saying "the fighting in Iran must be renewed, to attack national infrastructure, including sites in the gas, oil and electricity industries," per Israeli Channel 13.

Cooper also told IDF senior officials "we may very well have no choice but to resume fighting and will need you for joint strikes."

Israel says the Trump administration's demand last week to "close all fronts" with Iran is not the plan anymore.

 - US Treasury Secretary Threatens Iran With Unprecedented Economic Isolation: US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent said Washington would impose measures “never before seen in Iran,” combining unprecedented economic isolation with the continued blockade of the Strait of Hormuz to stop anything entering or leaving Iranian ports. Vice President JD Vance said goal number 1 is to keep oil and gas cheap for Americans, while number 2 is to ensure Iran never obtains a nuclear weapon.

- IDF Female observers serving in two different sectors in the Gaza Envelope have warned in recent days that they are identifying Hamas suspects and terrorists who reach the "yellow line" and pose a threat every day, but the forces on the ground are not receiving permission to thwart them. The fighters explained that Hamas is taking advantage of the new reality and is examining the army's responses in a manner reminiscent of the period before October 7.

- US Ambassador to Israel Mike Huckabee a strong supporter of  Israeli settlement of the West Bank condemns settlers besieging Palestinians in the town of Qusra as “Israeli terrorists” Huckabee: “IDF & Israeli Police have gone out at our request” to remove them.

- IDF strikes Hamas cell in Gaza's south, second in two days since Gaza deal pause After curbing its operations in line with US instructions since the July deal took effect, the IDF is confident on removing ongoing threats in Gaza, military sources said.

- Iran rejects Trump’s claim of total control over Strait of Hormuz The remarks came a day after US President Donald Trump wrote on his Truth Social platform that the US had "total control" of the strategic waterway.

- Tensions remain high in the Middle East with no diplomatic breakthrough in sight. Iran insists the Strait of Hormuz will remain blocked until its conditions are met, while President Trump says the U.S. has "total control" of the critical waterway.

- William Shakin, a 25-year-old lone soldier from New York who served for months in Gaza with the Golani Brigade’s 13th Battalion and later died by suicide after struggling with post-traumatic stress, will be brought to Israel for burial after the IDF said an initial review found that his death may be connected to his military service

Trump Announces House passed Sunshine Protection Act to make daylight saving time permanent, says bill awaits final Senate approval

- @realDonaldTrump: For many years, the vast Majority of Americans have asked to make Daylight Saving Time permanent, but no Administration has been able to get it properly done, until now. I am proud to announce that the House of Representatives has passed the Bill, and it has now gone to the Senate for final approval. People are sick and tired of having to change their clocks twice a year. It is foolish, inconvenient and, in some cases, very costly. For Cities and States with Watchtowers, and hard to reach places, it costs Millions of Dollars. A recent case was made that it is also bad for your health in the anxiety it creates. Leading Medical, Crime, and Economic Studies have shown that ceasing the biannual time change, giving us one extra hour of natural sunlight in the evenings, will help Decrease Robbery and Murder Rates, Reduce Car Accidents (especially those involving Pedestrians!), Lower Risk for Cardiac Issues, Stroke, and Seasonal Depression, Make It Safer for Children to Walk Home from School, Increase Time with your Family, Strongly Support Extracurricular Activities, Be a Big Boost to Sports, Fitness, Tourism, Retail, and the Restaurant Industries (and more!), and Save Money on Energy Bills, because everyone will be enjoying an EXTRA HOUR OF DAYLIGHT. In other words, leave it as it is now, and never change again. This is an issue that Republicans, Dumocrats, and Independents can unite behind. I am asking Republican Senators to PASS THE SUNSHINE PROTECTION ACT, ASAP. Thank you for your attention to this matter! President DONALD J. TRUMP

יעלה ויבוא 

Chasunas:

Weiss - Schustal Fountain Ballroom 

Greenspan - Neuman Ateres Esther

Bodenheimer - Hunger Kesser Moshe Yehuda 

Levitz - Weiner Ateres Blima

- LPD Traffic Alert: Martin Luther King Dr will be closed from Lois Ln to Wynatt St for planned NJNG construction. Plan alternate route if possible.

Weather: High 88° Sunny to partly cloudy. A stray shower or thunderstorm is possible.

- BDE: Petirah of the Spinka  Rebbe Bais Shmiel Tzvi from Williamsburg, Harav Yosef Meir Horowitz ZT"L. He was niftar tonight at the  age of 58 after battling an illness.

- Trump: Our wonderful White House Press Secretary, and one of my most trusted aides, Karoline Leavitt, will be departing her role at the end of the month so she can spend more time with her beautiful young children and family, a decision I totally understand and respect! Karoline will now be one of my top outside advisors, and an influential voice within the Republican Party, as we work to defy History, and conclusively win the Midterm Elections. Karoline has been a real leader in the White House, and has done a phenomenal job fighting for Justice, Liberty, and Freedom, since 2018, including our Historic Re-Election Campaign of 2024. Karoline has been one of the best White House Press Secretaries in the History of the Office. Thank you, Karoline, for a job well done! President DONALD J. TRUMP

- 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

- Partial solar eclipse will be visible in New Jersey, on Wednesday, August 12, 2026. Begins at 1:11 Pm reaches a maximum peak w/ roughly 15% coverage at 1:54 p.m. & ends at 2:35 p.m.

- Elul zman in BMG Lakewood begins this Motzei Shabbos.  Ponovezh begins the zman tonight

- Rav Gershon Ribner shlita will be giving a live iyun shiur daily through Elul on perek 10 Bava Metzia on zoom. Mareh mekomos given every day Replay of the shiur also available later in the day.

- Bingo Event merchandise sale starts today selling appliances furniture kids toys etc. Donna's for $300. Kitchen aid for $150.

- Thousands attended the “Night Out Against Crime” event yesterday at BlueClaws Stadium in Lakewood. Throughout the evening, police raffled off 40 bicycles. Children who attended received wristbands with numbers printed on them, which were used for the raffle. However, organizers ran out of wristbands early in the evening, leaving children who arrived later without raffle tickets.

- Last night, the Lakewood Planning Board approved an application for a new school on Ridge Avenue that will accommodate up to 160 students.

 The board also stood by its previous approval of the Bais Reuven kamenitz extension, adopting the resolution despite an attorney’s objection that a neighboring property owner within the 200-foot notice radius did not receive proper notice from the township after purchasing the lot from the developer. The board’s response was essentially that the neighbor is welcome to challenge the approval in court and see whether a judge will overturn the board’s decision.

- Bike shop owners in New Jersey reported a drop in e-bike sales ranging from 20% to 90% since New Jersey’s new restrictive and confusing e-bike law took effect on July 19. NJ.com

- Ohel organization won Camp Lavi’s auction in Lakewood, PA but agreed to let the second-place bidder take over. That bidder backed out before the deal became official, leaving Ohel as the winner. Ohel is now working with parents to find another buyer who will keep the camp operating as it is. EJP

- Giyus: Protesters blocked a main highway outside Bnei Brak in response to the police arresting a bochur and handing him over to IDF military police for draft evasion.

- Rav Moshe Hillel Hirsch shlita at event for yeshiva  bocurim in Bet Shemesh “Drastic Change Is Needed Ahead of Rosh Hashanah”. The Rosh Yeshivah said that in light of the gezeiros and challenges facing the Torah world over the past year, everyone must make a serious cheshbon hanefesh ahead of Yom Hadin. He stressed that general kabbolos and superficial chizuk are not enough. To merit a better year, each person must undertake a meaningful and substantial change.

- Flock cameras popping up across New Jersey. A vast network of surveillance cameras has popped up up not all over New Jersey, but across the country. The cameras are automated license plate readers, logging the make, model, and color of passing cars as we traverse the Garden State. Law enforcement agencies say these cameras have become crucial to investigating crimes. But many across New Jersey believe they create a surveillance state, violate privacy and rights and can easily be misused. 

- New Jersey is no longer the “armpit of the nation.”In fact, the Garden State ranks No. 2 among the best states to live in the US, driven by strong scores in safety, healthcare and education, according to a new WalletHub study. The state boasts the lowest crime rate in the country, and ranks high in quality of life, health and education. It also has some of the highest-performing public school districts in the country. (NYP)

- Tesla has recalled 20,349 Model 3 and Model Y vehicles because their low-beam headlights may be too bright and exceed federal limits, potentially creating a safety risk for other drivers. The recall was reported by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA)

- Last night at the Jackson township meeting councilman speaks out against Hatzolah copy cat organizations

- Trump: The U.S.A. has total control over the Strait of Hormuz. I THINK WE WILL KEEP IT! Our Naval Blockade is being called, by everyone, “A WALL OF STEEL,” and there is nothing Iran can do about it. They have no Navy, they have no Air Force, their remaining soldiers are unpaid, the IRGC is decimated and fleeing, and their “Leadership” is uncertain, at best! They have No Money - Their country is “shot.” All they have is FAKE NEWS and 300% INFLATION, and getting worse! Iran is all talk and no action, the Bully of the Middle East No Longer. Praise be to Allah! President DONALD J. TRUMP

- Peace Council Director General: The claims about a financial agreement between the Peace Council and Hamas are false. The big question will be: how will it be examined who will receive the money, which employees and which companies. Mladenov also announces: In the coming days, a mechanism will begin to operate to monitor violations, every violation will be addressed.

- NYT: Behind the reason for moving Trump on a secret plane back from the NATO summit in Turkey - US intelligence identified a targeted threat of launching a surface-to-air missile at Air Force One

- Trump: “It's only up to the Secret Service. I just follow what they'd like to do. So, I go by the Secret Service and the military. They wanted me to go on a different flight, a different plane. I guess there was a threat out there. I didn't really ask too much about it."

- A senior Iranian official told Reuters ahead of the end of the 60-day ceasefire as outlined in the MOU: There are no discussions about extending the ceasefire between Iran and the US. From Iran’s perspective, there is no start date for the ceasefire, so there is nothing to extend

- CBS: Secretary of War was on the plane on which Trump escaped from Turkey - On the Air Force One plane, which was a "decoy" following the threats, there were 2 ministers: Secretary of State Rubio and Treasury Secretary Bessent. The two knew that Trump was not on the plane.

Several senior White House officials were also on Air Force One, without the president, including Stephen Miller, Will Scharf, Stephen Chung, Mike Needham, Ross Worthington and Monica Crowley. The plane, whose identity was not revealed, on which Trump flew after being transported with the help of a catering truck, also had Natalie Harp, Dan Scavino and Walt Nauta.

- CNN Report: The US State Department has ordered US embassies in the Middle East to prepare plans that will allow them to continue operating with a limited number of staff, amid fears of a return to war with Iran. In addition, staff members who have been evacuated from their posts in missions in the Middle East are increasingly being given options to end their missions

- Report: The "Gaza Peace Council" will pay off Hamas' debts. As part of the agreement reached by the Peace Council and the mediation countries with Hamas, it turns out that a commitment was reached to pay Hamas' debts - up to $400 million. This is vaguely worded in section five of the document, according to which the money will be transferred to suppliers and contract holders. A source in the Peace Council confirms this. It explains that this is money that will be transferred to public employees 'who have not received payment, or suppliers and contractors who provided services to the population - and who still deserve money.' The Peace Council promises that each claim for payment will be examined individually, and that this is not a commitment to cover "corruption by Hamas or other financial mismanagement related to its rule in Gaza, or anything related to Hamas's record of terrorism and oppression," the source said, adding: "The Peace Council will not pay any commitment related to Hamas' record of terrorist activity." - Yisrael Hayom

BDE: Petirah of Rebbetzin Esther Paler a”h, wife of Rav Binyomin Paler zt”l, longtime rosh yeshiva of Yeshiva Mekor Chaim she was nifter in Lakewood at the age of 99.

She was the daughter of Rav Shmuel Ehrenfeld zt”l, the Mattersdorfer Rov, and devoted her life to supporting her husband’s Torah leadership and raising a distinguished Torah family. Rav Binyomin, a close talmid of the Brisker Rov, survived the Holocaust after fleeing with the Mirrer Yeshiva to Shanghai and later founded Yeshiva Mekor Chaim in 1965.

After nearly 50 years in Brooklyn, the yeshiva moved to Lakewood in 2012. Rebbetzin Paler also suffered the tragic loss of her son, Rav Yitzchok Paler zt”l, in 2020.

She is survived by her children, including Rav Simcha Bunim Paler  shlita and Rav Zechariah Paler shlita, roshei yeshiva of Mekor Chaim, as well as Rebbetzin Olshin wife of Rav Shmuel Abba Olshin Shlita R"Y Eitz Chaim Hillside, NJ and Rebbetzin Horowit wife of Rav Shmuel Simcha Horowitz shlita R"Y Emek Hatalmud, Brooklyn,p grandchildren and great-grandchildren. 

 The levayah is today 10:30am  at Yeshiva Mekor Chaim, 160 Locust Street, Lakewood.

See more here

עננו  העונה בעת רצון ער"ח אלול כ"ט אב תשפ"ו

Minyanim: Mincha/Yom Kippur Koton  ער"ח אלול  תשפ"ו Lakewood Wednesday, August 12, 2026 כ"ט אב תשפ""ו

Rosh Chodesh Elul is Thursday & Friday

Please post additional minyanim or corrections in the comments section.

Shkiah 7:57 pm

- See more zmanim HERE 

BMG 1:45 pm in the Botei medrashim  Bais Yitzchok, Ateres Shmuel Forest, Bais Sholom, Bais Shmuel. Maariv, 6:55 in the Yoshon B"M,Bais Shalom, Bais Shmuel Princeton. 

- Woodbourne Shul  in the Catskills Yom Kippur Katan at: 1:45, 6pm,7pm,8pm with additional minyanim as needed  on the hour.

- Satmar Forest ave 1:33, 1:40, 2:30, 3:30, 4:30, 5:30, 6:30 7:30

- Lutzk 1:45 B"M ,300, 4:00, 5:00, 6:00,6:55 (Simcha hall)

- Shemen LMincha Brook hill 1pm

- Zichron Shneur Oak Knoll 1:35 & 6:00 pm

- Chayei Yisroel 11 Gudz 1:35 pm

-Meor Chaim R' Herzka shul Adams  1:10 pm

- Babad Toms River 1:10, 6pm Whitesville rd

- Lev Avos 1:30

-Kol Shimshon 1:45 and 7:00 pm in the Otzar

- Mordys Shteibel 1:20 pm

- Kahanow shul 185 Miller rd 1:05

- Ishay Yisrael 1:10 pm 110 Miller Rd

- Chasam Sofer Ridge 1:30 pm

- Central court shul 1:15 and 6:30 pm upstairs

-Viyalipol 1142 E County Line 1:35 pm

-Gissingers  175 Sunset 1:35pm

- Shvilei Dovid Oak&vine 1:30 pm and 7:00 PM

-Somerset walk-  1:35 and 7:00 pm

-Lakewood Commons  1:35

- Coventry 1:35 downstairs

- Spruce st 1:40 bm/7:00 bm

-Hearthstone Tiferes Shmuel 1:15 (941 Princewood Ave)

-B"M Westgate 1:35, 2:00pm & 6:00 pm 7:05

- Sterling Forest 1:30 and 7:00 pm

- Kol Arye 1:30 pm in B"M

- Leifers Nadvorn 1:35

- Hearthstone  1:40 pm, 6:15

- Prospect Square 1:30 or 6:15 at 317 Blanch

- Spruce street 1:40 bm/7:00 bm

-Williams street shul 1:40 Ezras Nashim open

- Old Shul 1:45

-Alumni B'M 1:45 pm

-Arlington 1:45 and 7:00pm

- Bais Shabsi Pawnee rd 1:45

-Prospect Heights 1:45 pm

-B"M Kelmwoods westgate 2:45 pm (Ezras Nashim open) 7:15 pm

- Kollel Choshen Mishpat 625 forest 3:00 pm

- Stolin E 7th st 4pm

Sanz Klausenberg Oak and Vine 5:30 ,8:15

- Central Court  shul 6:30pm

- Chateau Park Sefard 6:30 pm

- Breslov 423 6th street 6:45 pm

- Breslov 944 E County Line 6:55pm

- Hampshire Heights 6:15

-Hearthstone 911 Heartstone 6:15

-Sterling Forest 7:00pm

- Skulen 7pm

- Rachmastrivka 7pm

Ner Yisroel Ridge 7:15 pm

- Lakewood Residence courtyard shul 7:10 pm 1st between forest and madison-direct entrance to shul 45 minutes before shkia (ezras nashim too)

- Spinka Ridge Linden Ave 8:10 pm 

- Shaarei Ish 518 E Veterans Jackson 8:10 pm

- Sanz Klausenberg Oak and Vine 8:15

Chasunas:

Ambilu - Masalton Ateres Reva

Eisenberger - Harbestatdt Bais Faiga 

Eider - Zell Ateres Blima

Shapiro - Kushner Fountain Ballroom

Greenwald - Serebrowsky Cedar Palace

Weather: Showers this evening, becoming a steady rain overnight. Low around 70F. Winds light and variable. Chance of rain 90%.

LPD Traffic Alert: Martin Luther King Dr will be closed from Wynatt St to Lois Ln for planned NJNG construction. Plan alternate route if possible.

Weather: 89° Thunderstorms with locally heavy downpours in the afternoon. Storms may contain strong gusty winds  Chance of rain 100%.

Today 26 Av 25th Yahrzeit of Rav Avrohom Yaakov Pam ZT'L:

- Tehillim for A 24-year-old Lakewood yungerman in BMG in critical condition after drowning in a swimming pool on Sunday.The family is asking the public to increase their tefillos for Daniel Baruch Ben Hadassa Orit, for a complete refuah sheleimah. There will be a atzeres tefillah tonight at Bais Medrash Ozer Yonah, 124 Gudz Road in Lakewood. Maari 9:00 p.m followed by Tehillim.

- A partial solar eclipse will be visible across parts of the eastern and northern United States on Wednesday, August 12, 2026. The event begins around 11:34 a.m. ET, peaks near 1:46 p.m. ET, and will only show a small crescent "bite" missing from the sun since the U.S. is not in the path of totality. Visibility from NYC will be 9%.

- Search Intensifies for frum Israeli Mother and Daughter Missing in Vienna: Israeli authorities are searching for Mali and Liel Yahalomi, a mother and daughter who lost contact while traveling in Vienna on 7 August. They were scheduled to fly from Prague to Israel tonight but had not checked in, according to an Israeli official.

- Trump: Today, at my direction, Dr. Mehmet Oz announced that Medicaid will NO LONGER fund gender transition surgeries and hormones for minors. We are not going to pay for our innocent children to undergo these barbaric surgeries and practices, which result in unthinkable and irreversible harm to their young bodies. Thanks to our strong position and pressure on this issue over the past year and a half, dozens of U.S. hospitals have already ended this so-called “gender-affirming care,” and we expect many more to follow. Just think about all of the young, innocent, and perhaps confused children who will be spared! While the Dumocrat Party wants your kids to be able to chop off their reproductive organs before they are old enough to vote, President Donald J. Trump (ME!) and the Republican Party say that is ABSURD, and we will protect America’s children. Please remember this when you are casting your vote in the Midterm Elections in November. Thank you for your attention to this very important matter! President DONALD J. TRUMP

- Jackson township meeting tonight 6:30 pm large crowd expected.

- Today Lakewood Police  Dept national night out at Blueclaws stadium 4pm -8pm

- No winner in Powerball lottery Jackpot rises to $975 million drawing tomorrow night 

- Manchester Township residents packed Monday’s council meeting to demand a ban on AI/data centers, after concerns spread that a large “hyperscale” facility could be developed near the Renaissance community. The council did not have a data-center proposal on Monday’s agenda, and officials said there is currently no active application for one. However, a developer is reportedly considering using part of an already-approved warehouse development for data-center purposes.

- While some routes have not yet been picked up or finalized with LSTA, parents have already been charged for busing

- Bein hazmanim buses and luggage trucks arriving  back from Camps the boys are back , tomorrow is Erev Rosh Chodesh Elul. Some yeshivos will begin the zman Thursday night Rosh chodesh

- Agudas Yisrael Challenges Election Monitoring Decision: Agudat Yisrael petitioned the Central Elections Committee to reconsider a decision preventing the monitoring of voting. The party argued that the measure would reduce voter turnout and disputed Judge Noam Sohlberg’s privacy concerns.

- Lakewood planning board meeting tonight watch livestream Here on the agenda 1244 & 1250 RidgePreliminary and Final Major Site Plan for a school 

Brook Road Block 204, Lot 1 Minor Subdivision to create three lots

- Trump on the Israel lobby: "The biggest change I've seen over the last 10, 15 years is what's happened to Israel and Jewish people. They had a very powerful lobby. You go back 20, 25 years ago, they had the most powerful lobby in Washington. Now everyone is, you know, just large numbers have--if you look at the House, it's the Democrats, but you look at the Democrats in the House. Look at guys like Schumer. He's become virtually a Palestinian. It's pretty amazing, actually. I've never seen anything like it.

- BDE: Petirah of  Rav Tzvi Zev Berger ZT"L Sanz Klausenberger Dayan in BP,  who didnt wake up today while away in Switzerland at the age of 43. He was known for his clarity in Torahband delivering shiurim. Levaya details TBA.

- Trump: The NYC Pied-a-Terre Tax is costing New York City and State a fortune in that the money, eventually to be gotten, is very little compared to to the TAXES PAID by the tens of thousands of people who are fleeing the City, never to return. Florida, Texas, and numerous other States, are making an absolute fortune! This dangerous political “experiment” in New York will destroy what was once a great City and State. It is pure Amateur Hour, and it’s hard, as President of the United States of America, to sit back and watch it happen, especially to a place I once loved. Financial, and then Social, RUIN, is a 100% certainty - And then the Radical Left Jihadists charge Congestion Pricing on top of everything else. This doesn’t work in America, and must be stopped, NOW! I am looking to see if the Federal Government has any legal right to avert this disaster, before it is too late, for the millions of people who cherish New York and want to see it thrive, as opposed to becoming a filthy, crime ridden, decrepit place of mockery and scorn. MAKE AMERICA GREAT AGAIN! President DJT

- Trump Announces Robert Gilman’s Release from Russia: US President Donald Trump announced that 32-year-old former Marine Robert Gilman, imprisoned in Russia since 2022, had been released on humanitarian grounds following talks with Vladimir Putin. Trump stressed that no prisoner exchange took place

Videos at the End of Bein Hazmanim Ichud bnei Yeshiva event in Bet Shemesh 

Rav Dov Landau on gezeiras Giyus

A display of a father jailed  prison 10 at the Vizhnitz gathering at the Ger B"M in Yerushalayim

- Wall Street Journal: Israel briefed the Trump administration on intelligence that included an Iranian threat to use shoulder-fired anti-aircraft missiles to hit Air Force One - which is what led President Trump to carry out the diversion using a Turkish catering truck and a military aircraft

- IDF Fires 3 Shells Toward Syrian Village: Arab and Syrian media reported that the IDF fired 3 shells at agricultural land near the village of Al-Hamidiyah in northern rural Quneitra..

- Iran Sets Regional Conditions for Reopening Strait of Hormuz: Iranian security official Mohsen Rezaei said the Strait of Hormuz would remain closed unless the US changed its conduct, accepted Iran’s conditions, released frozen Iranian funds, and ended wars across the region, including in Lebanon and Gaza. He added that any Iran-Oman agreement on passage through the strait would be separate from the closure issue.

- Delta airlines will resume flights from New York to Israel on September 7.

Three killed in Houthi attack on cargo ship in Bab el-Mandeb Strait.

Israel said to tell US it will keep targeting Oct. 7 terrorists as Gaza disarmament stalls

- Trump on Iran: We have three strategies. Do what we’re doing now--just bop along and look how bad they’re doing, because they’ve got 300% inflation. Their currency has almost no value. They’re not paying their soldiers. Their soldiers are leaving. So just keep that going because that’s not sustainable. Hit them really, really hard, or--really, the third is just beat them economically. But we’re doing that anyway. That’s sort of a part of the first. So economically, they are a mess. They can’t borrow money. We control their money, what they had, which is a lot. They had a lot, and we have total control of it. I’m their banker. I am their banker.

- Former Mossad director Yossi Cohen says he visited Iran’s Fordo uranium enrichment facility several times in the past, without saying when the visits were. “Its bombing by the Americans was the fulfillment of all my dreams,”.Cohen also states “that 60% enriched uranium is still far from a bomb,” 

- Lebanese security source: "The IDF has begun a secret operation to take over the Ali Taher ridge. The situation of Hezbollah and Revolutionary Guard terrorists is bad, because the IDF controls the ridge and the supply routes; its fall may be a matter of time." Hezbollah, on the other hand, is working to dig tunnels and underground passages along the ridge to create alternative supply lines.

- Trump on the Strait of Hormuz: “It's open now. The only one that has control of the Strait is the US Navy. Our blockade is a steel wall. We let people in who we want to let in. They're coming in and going out.

- Washington Post: Trump was smuggled out of Turkey in a deception operation at the end of a NATO summit in Turkey, due to an Iranian assassination threat. An Iranian assassination threat led to a secret presidential rescue from Turkey last month, when Trump was secretly transferred from the veteran presidential plane, the Boeing 747 Air Force One, to a C-32A (the Boeing 757 in the picture). This was while the White House publicly claimed that he remained on Air Force One. According to the report, Trump left his 747 via an airport catering truck and boarded the C-32A, which flew to Britain under the call sign "Reach 18." The veteran presidential plane, carrying journalists and staff who thought Trump was on board, served as bait and continued to Britain under the call sign AF1.

A video supposedly shows the smuggling operation. Food trucks (marked with white squares) are parked under the original (not the Qatari) Air Force One.  The journalists climb the stairs at the back, but shortly afterward one of the trucks transfers Trump to the replacement plane (C-32A), which is parked at the back. It is also marked in the video.  Until the new release, the thought was that Trump was transferred to the UK on the old Air Force One, and there he transferred to the Qatari plane.

Chasunas:

Azoolay  - Bassala Ateres Chaim Elazar 

Shachnow - Levenson Ateres Esther 

Wiesel -Yufra Ateres  Blima

Abramson  - Mendlowitz Ateres Reva 

Ritz - Rosenman Kesser Moshe Yehuda 

Jonas  - Glustein Fountain Ballroom 

Norman - Twersky Ne'emas Hachaim

Kaplan - Steinharter  Bais Faiga

LPD Traffic Alert: Martin Luther King Dr. will be closed from Lois Ln. to Wynatt St. for planned NJNG construction. Plan alternate route if possible.