Dear Matzav Inbox,
I took a week to gather my thoughts after the recent mesivta farher/application debacle. I needed time to calm down and clear my mind before writing this letter. I am deeply troubled by what’s happening in some communities, and I feel compelled to speak out.
And I write this letter as a longtime mechanech myself.
Let me just say it: Any rosh mesivta, any rebbi, any menahel, anyone who operates a mesivta with the sole focus of taking in only “top boys” should be ashamed of himself. Is this what Hashem wants? Is this the standard we should be setting for our boys?

Dear Matzav Inbox,
I am writing about the glaring hypocrisy that is “Yeshiva Week,” or “Midwinter Vacation.” (The first is the Modox term that somehow has become en vogue. Frankly, it’s weird, because it’s actually “Non-Yeshiva Week,” but whatever.) The level of inconsistency and double standards being displayed is nothing short of infuriating, and it’s time someone called it out.

Dear Matzav Inbox, 
I have an overwhelming sense of disgust and frustration over the growing trend of young bochurim, some as young as in 5th and 6th grade, who are now vaping in places like shul and supermarkets. What has become of us as a community, when young boys are engaging in this dangerous and disturbing habit?
The prevalence of vaping among our boys has reached epidemic proportions in my opinion, and it is time that we, as a community, address it head-on.

Dear Matzav Inbox,
As a young frum family, we are finding it increasingly impossible to make ends meet, even as we tighten our belts and cut back on anything that’s not absolutely essential. It’s hard to imagine how anyone in our situation is expected to save or even plan for the future when the day-to-day costs are so overwhelming.

Dear Matzav Inbox,
I’ll tell you something, I am absolutely bewildered. Here we are, at a time of unparalleled goodness, and yet Moshiach is still not here. Can someone please explain this to me? With all the incredible things going on—especially on WhatsApp—how could Hashem possibly delay the arrival of Moshiach any longer? I mean, just think about it for a second.

Dear Matzav Inbox,
I hope this letter finds you well. I would like to present an idea to you regarding a subject that is deeply important to almost everyone in our community. With great respect, I would like to share this concept with the tzibbur and sincerely welcome your feedback.
As we are in the season of farhers for bochurim and navigating the process of high school acceptances, the current system of admissions into our chadorim, Bais Yaakovs, and mesivtos is a tangible reality for almost all of us. It is a process that, while essential, often brings stress and heartache to families across Lakewood.

Dear Matzav Inbox,
It is honestly astounding how the frum community has been swept up in the frenzy of politics, with so many putting all their energy into idolizing President Trump and obsessing over every detail of his actions. Day in and day out, there are conversations and debates about him, as if he is the key to solving our problems, as if his leadership will somehow bring geulah. It’s as if the entire focus of our community has shifted entirely to political matters, and this obsession with the goyishe world of politics has taken over, pushing aside the things that truly matter to us as Yidden.
Frankly, it’s nauseating.
We have fallen off the deep end.
Since when did we forget who we are?

Dear Matzav Inbox,

Dear Residents of Lakewood, NJ,
I hope this message finds you well. I would like to take a moment to express my deep appreciation for the dedication and tireless efforts of our local elected officials. Their work on behalf of our community is invaluable, and I am grateful for all they do to ensure Lakewood remains a safe and vibrant place to live.
The recent and ongoing fires in Los Angeles have been truly devastating. Families have lost their homes and all their belongings, schools have been destroyed, and precious Torah scrolls have been rescued under heartbreaking circumstances. These events are a powerful reminder of how quickly life can change and how important it is to be prepared.

Dear Matzav Inbox,
For many Orthodox Jewish families, “Yeshiva Week” has become synonymous with travel. Families have become accustomed to take a mid-winter trip to warm climates to thaw out from the New York winter.
Los Angeles is a popular destination, because of its unique combination of pleasant weather, world-class tourist attractions, and abundant access to synagogues and kosher dining. However, this year is different. We urge you to cancel your plans to visit Los Angeles during Yeshiva Week due to the city’s current challenges.