Matzav

Fannie Mae, Freddie Mac’s NY Offices To Shutter In Response To AG James’ ‘Corrupt’ Practices

Fox News Digital reported Thursday that the New York branches of Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac will be closing for good, a decision tied to what officials described as Attorney General Letitia James’ “corrupt and dangerous business practices.”

“We are shutting down the two New York offices for Fannie and Freddie as a result of Letitia James’ corrupt and dangerous business practices in the state,” a source close to the Federal Housing Finance Agency (FHFA), which supervises the mortgage giants, told Fox News Digital.

The same official clarified that the closures won’t mean an end to business with New Yorkers. “We’ll still employ New York residents, and we’ll still continue to do mortgage loans in New York, of course,” the source said. “But we are going to eliminate our physical presence. And to the extent that we have leases, we are going to be subleasing those.”

The FHFA is an independent federal body tasked with oversight of Fannie Mae, Freddie Mac, and the Federal Home Loan Bank System.

James has long been at odds with President Donald Trump, famously campaigning in 2018 on a pledge to pursue him if elected attorney general. After her win, she declared she would expose the “con man,” and her office went on to file nearly 100 lawsuits against the Trump administration. Following his second election victory in 2024, she vowed to continue battling him in court “to defend the rights of New Yorkers and the rule of law.”

The decision to pull Fannie and Freddie out of New York follows news that the Department of Justice launched an investigation into James’ mortgage dealings in May. The probe began after FHFA chief Bill Pulte issued a criminal referral a month earlier, alleging James had falsified documents to secure better lending terms.

Central to the federal inquiry is a property James bought in Norfolk, Virginia, in 2023. According to Pulte’s referral, she claimed on mortgage documents and a Fannie Mae/Freddie Mac form that it would be her primary residence.

As an elected statewide official in New York, however, James is legally obligated to live in the state.

The referral also pointed to earlier irregularities, including a Brooklyn home she purchased in 2001. City records list the building as a five-unit property, while her mortgage applications classified it as four units, which may have impacted loan arrangements.

James has rejected the accusations. Her office told the New York Times in April that another loan application tied to the Virginia property stated she would not live there full-time, and that her mortgage terms did not require the house to serve as her main residence.

Her attorney, Abbe Lowell, addressed the Justice Department directly in April. In a letter to U.S. Attorney General Pam Bondi, he dismissed the referral as “three pages of stale, threadbare allegations with no reason to proceed other than they are ‘based on media reports’ and are the next salvo in President Trump’s revenge tour against Attorney General James.”

{Matzav.com}

Maxwell House Changing Its Name For First Time In 133 Years

For the first time in more than a century, Maxwell House is altering its iconic name. The coffee maker, a staple since 1892, will be known temporarily as “Maxwell Apartment.”

The switch, announced by parent company Kraft Heinz, is meant to reflect what it says is a nod to changing lifestyles. The company explained the decision in a statement: the brand will be renamed “Maxwell Apartment,” a move it said it made “to meet the needs of today’s consumer.”

“In a time where value matters now more than ever, Americans seek value in areas of their everyday, including where they live,” Kraft Heinz said in a press release.

According to U.S. Census Bureau figures, close to one-third of the population rents rather than buys their home. Data from Realtor.com shows the typical asking rent across the 50 biggest American metropolitan areas now tops $1,700 a month.

Holly Ramsden, who heads coffee operations for North America at Kraft Heinz, tied the rebranding to consumer habits. “Two-thirds of American adults drink coffee every day, which can add up quickly, especially these days,” she said.

As part of the campaign, Maxwell House is introducing what it calls a 12-month “lease” on coffee, giving customers enough supply to last through the year.

The package includes four 27.5-ounce canisters of Maxwell House Original Roast Ground Coffee priced at $39.99. By comparison, a single canister of the same size retails for $12.99 on Amazon.

This offering arrives at a time when U.S. shoppers are grappling with higher costs for coffee. International shortages, combined with tariffs on imported beans, have driven prices close to historic highs.

Figures from the Bureau of Labor Statistics’ latest consumer price index (CPI) show that in August, coffee prices were 20.9% above the previous year and up 3.6% over the prior month. The yearly spike is the sharpest since July 2011, when prices increased by 21.2%.

The trend extended across categories. The BLS reported roasted coffee climbed 21.7% year-over-year and 4.1% in a single month, while instant coffee rose 20.1% annually and 4.9% month-to-month.

{Matzav.com}

‘Weakness in Face of Terrorism’: Netanyahu Notes UK’s Failings After Manchester Attack

In the aftermath of the tragic terror attack on Yom Kippur outside a Manchester shul, Israeli leaders issued sharp condemnations and drew attention to the alarming increase in antisemitism throughout Britain.

“Israel grieves with the Jewish community in the UK after the barbaric terror attack in Manchester,” said Prime Minister Bibi Netanyahu. “Our hearts are with the families of the murdered, and we pray for the swift recovery of the wounded. As I warned at the UN: weakness in the face of terrorism only brings more terrorism. Only strength and unity can defeat it.”

President Isaac Herzog reached out directly to Mark Adlestone, chairman of the Jewish Representative Council of Greater Manchester, offering his deep condolences and prayers for those killed and injured.

Herzog also disclosed that earlier this week he had written to King Charles III to share his growing concern about antisemitism spreading in the UK and across the Commonwealth.

In the letter, the president pointed to the worsening conditions facing Jews in Britain, Australia, and Canada, where violent antisemitism has reached record levels.

“Your Majesty,” he wrote in the letter, “some of the most difficult scenes of antisemitic hatred and violence have sadly been witnessed in the UK, Australia, and Canada. Three proud democracies. Three proud leaders of the free world. Three proud Commonwealth countries under the Crown. Three countries where Jews no longer feel safe.”

Herzog underscored that urgent action is necessary to confront the growing hatred targeting Jews.

Citing the words of the late Chief Rabbi Lord Jonathan Sacks, Herzog wrote: “Antisemitism is the world’s most reliable early warning sign of a major threat to freedom.”

“These statistics and testimonies,” he wrote, “point to one very grave reality: the world, and the Commonwealth in particular, is suffering from an epidemic of antisemitism posing a real and present danger to the well-being of not only the Jews, but all in society.”

He added that “The nations which just eighty years ago stood united against fascism and Nazism have now become overrun with anti-Jewish hatred.”

Herzog noted that much of the surge in antisemitism is linked to the ongoing conflict in the Middle East, but stressed that “the free world cannot and must not allow the [Middle East] conflict to become a political tool against the Jewish people.”

The letter concluded with Herzog’s assurance that King Charles’s “concern and moral leadership on this issue will be a great source of comfort and encouragement for the Jewish community in the Commonwealth and around the world.”

Meanwhile, Yisrael Beytenu leader Avigdor Liberman responded to the Manchester attack by urging British Jews to make aliyah.

Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar also weighed in on social media, writing: “The truth must be told: Blatant and rampant antisemitic and anti-Israeli incitement, as well as calls of support for terror, have recently become a widespread phenomenon in the streets of London, in cities across Britain, and on its campuses.”

Sa’ar faulted British authorities for their inaction, saying they have failed to take “necessary action to curb this toxic wave of antisemitism” and have allowed it to continue.

“We expect and demand a change of course, effective action, and enforcement against the rampant antisemitic and anti-Israeli incitement in Britain,” concluded the post.

He also asked Adlestone on Tuesday to pass along messages of support to the bereaved families and to strengthen the Manchester Jewish community as a whole.

Adlestone described the grief and pain felt by the kehillah following the attack, while noting that expressions of solidarity have poured in from across the UK.

Both Sa’ar and Adlestone agreed that a strong, united effort must be waged against antisemitism, and emphasized that those who push hatred cannot be permitted to disguise it as “anti-Zionism,” a term defined by the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance as a modern form of antisemitism.

{Matzav.com}

‘Worst Nightmare’: British PM Starmer, Jewish Community Leaders Condemn ‘Vile’ Attack On Shul

British Prime Minister Keir Starmer expressed outrage after a terrorist carried out a deadly car-ramming and stabbing outside a shul in Manchester on the morning of Yom Kippur.

“The fact that this has taken place on Yom Kippur, the holiest day in the Jewish calendar, makes it all the more horrific,” he said, adding.

Starmer was in Denmark attending a scheduled engagement when the news broke, but he immediately returned to London to convene an emergency security meeting.

By late afternoon, Starmer confirmed that additional police units had been dispatched to protect shuls nationwide. He also said he had spoken with Mark Gardner of the Community Security Trust, as well as Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham.

Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood voiced her dismay, saying she was “horrified” by the events and that her “first thoughts are with the victims, our brave police and emergency services.”

Opposition leader Kemi Badenoch denounced the assault, calling it an “outrageous, vile and disgusting attack.”

“I know that many Jewish people in our country feel that they’re no longer safe and my heart goes out to the people who have been hurt by this, and everyone who’s been affected,” she told the BBC.

Local MP Graham Stringer, who represents Blackley and Middleton South, commented on BBC Radio Manchester about the area’s demographics. “The area … is a very large Jewish community next to a very large Muslim community, and by and large community relations are excellent between all the different ethnic groups and religious groups, but there are always extreme people who want to damage those relationships and want to, in this case, damage Jews and the Jewish community.”

He added, “We have to work at it and we have to make sure these evil people do not damage our community, which is composed of many different kinds of religious beliefs and ethnic backgrounds.”

Afzal Khan, Labour MP for Manchester Rusholme, wrote on X: “Horrifying news out of Crumpsall this morning following a major incident. Praying for the whole community on this holy day,” but his post did not specify that the victims were Jewish.

King Charles released a statement saying that both he and the Queen are “deeply shocked and saddened” and offered prayers for those affected by “this appalling incident.”

The Israeli Embassy in London condemned the violence, writing: “that such an act of violence should be perpetrated on the holiest day of the Jewish calendar, in a place of prayer and community, is abhorrent and deeply distressing.”

Akeela Ahmed, CEO of the British Muslim Trust, also spoke out. “The attack in Manchester this morning is shocking and utterly abhorrent, and to commit these acts on Yom Kippur is sickening. We are deeply saddened by the loss of life, and our thoughts and best wishes go to all those affected.”

She emphasized the importance of unity, adding, “Violence is never the answer and Manchester must stand together against these actions.”

Chief Rabbi Pinchas Goldschmidt, President of the Conference of European Rabbis, issued a strong call for action. “Jews in Manchester, England, woke up this morning to pray, and were murdered in their own synagogue. More needs to be done to stamp out murderous ideologies. Governments the world over should spare us the statements about fighting antisemitism and instead ensure Jews are safe.”

{Matzav.com}

Report: Hamas Gaza Leader Opposes Trump Peace Plan

The BBC reported this evening that Qatar and Egypt reached out to Izz ad-Din al-Haddad, the commander of Hamas’s armed wing in Gaza, who conveyed outright opposition to President Donald Trump’s recently unveiled 21-point initiative.

According to the account, al-Haddad views the American outline as nothing less than an attempt to dismantle Hamas’s authority in Gaza, insisting that the end goal of the proposal is to terminate the group’s control regardless of its response. In his words, agreeing to such terms would be pointless, and Hamas should instead persist in armed resistance.

During a briefing on Tuesday, President Donald Trump made clear that Hamas has only “three to four days” to decide on his peace framework, which he introduced the previous day at a joint appearance with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.

White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt reiterated on Wednesday that this deadline remains firm.

At the same time, CBS News reported on Tuesday that the terror group was giving serious thought to embracing Trump’s deal as a way to bring an end to the conflict.

By Wednesday morning, however, a Hamas official speaking with the BBC dismissed that notion, asserting that the organization is leaning toward refusal because, in his words, it “serves Israel’s interests” and “ignores those of the Palestinian people”.

Egypt’s Foreign Minister, in discussions with Hamas, issued a stark warning: “If Hamas rejects the Trump plan, the situation will be difficult and escalation is likely to occur.”

{Matzav.com}

Hero of Manchester: Rabbi Daniel Walker Barricaded Shul During Terror Attack

Rabbi Daniel Walker, who leads the Heaton Park kehillah in Manchester, acted with extraordinary courage on Yom Kippur when he stopped a terrorist from bursting into the shul after the attacker had already plowed into mispallelim outside and began stabbing them. By blocking the doors, Rabbi Walker saved countless lives.

“Rabbi Walker was incredibly calm, he shut the doors to the synagogue to stop him getting inside. He barricaded everyone inside. He is a hero; this could have been even worse,” said eyewitnesses.

Sir Stephen Watson, Chief Constable of Greater Manchester Police, acknowledged the quick response of those inside. “Thanks to the immediate bravery of security staff and worshippers inside, and the fast response of the police, the attacker was prevented from gaining access. All those inside were safely contained until police were able to confirm that it was safe to leave the premises.”

He explained that the hundreds of mispallelim gathered for Yom Kippur remained protected within the shul until police had thoroughly checked and cleared the area. The attack claimed the lives of two Yidden and left four others wounded, some in grave condition.

Video clips of the takedown of the terrorist quickly circulated across social media in the UK. Armed officers opened fire, killing the assailant who was brandishing a knife and wearing what initially appeared to be an explosive device.

Watson added further details. “We believe that the identity of the offender has been established but until we are certain of this fact, it is premature to set out this detail. In addition, I can confirm that two other individuals have been arrested in connection with this incident and enquiries are ongoing.”

He went on to confirm the devastating loss. “We can confirm that two members of our Jewish community have sadly died as a result of this attack. Following a rapid response, armed officers from Greater Manchester Police intercepted the offender and he was fatally shot by officers, within seven minutes of the initial call.”

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu issued a sharp statement, mourning the victims and criticizing Britain’s policies on terror. “Israel grieves with the Jewish community in the UK after the barbaric terror attack in Manchester. Our hearts are with the families of the murdered, and we pray for the swift recovery of the wounded. As I warned at the UN: weakness in the face of terrorism only brings more terrorism. Only strength and unity can defeat it.”

The Israeli Embassy in London also released a strong condemnation. “The Embassy of Israel in the United Kingdom condemns the attack carried out today on Yom Kippur at the Heaton Park Hebrew Congregation Synagogue in Manchester.”

“That such an act of violence should be perpetrated on the holiest day of the Jewish calendar, in a place of prayer and community, is abhorrent and deeply distressing.”

“The Embassy is in close contact with Manchester Jewish community, British authorities and the Community Security Trust (CST) to monitor developments and ensure that the necessary support is provided.”

“We thank the Greater Manchester Police for their swift response. The safety and security of Jewish communities in the United Kingdom must be guaranteed.”

“The thoughts and prayers of the people of Israel are with the victims, their families, and the entire Jewish community at this difficult time.”

{Matzav.com}

TERROR: Yom Kippur Bloodshed: 2 Jews Murdered In Attack On Manchester Shul

On Yom Kippur, two Jews were killed and three others were critically wounded in a brutal attack outside a synagogue in Manchester, England, where the assailant used both a vehicle and a knife to target worshippers.

Police said the attacker, who at first appeared to be wearing an explosive belt, was fatally shot by officers who rushed to the scene.

Witnesses described a horrific sequence of events, saying the car accelerated into the crowd outside the building before the driver jumped out and began stabbing people. Authorities quickly summoned bomb disposal experts, later confirming it was an act of terrorism. They also reported that two additional suspects were taken into custody.

Chava Levin, a nearby resident, recounted the ordeal to British outlets. “As soon as he got out of the car, he started stabbing anyone nearby. He approached the guard and tried to break into the synagogue.” She continued, “Someone blocked the door. Everyone was in complete shock.” According to the Daily Mail, that individual was Rabbi Daniel Walker, who has led the congregation since 2008. “Rabbi Walker was incredibly calm,” Levin explained. “He closed the doors and blocked the entrance. He’s a hero. It could have been much worse.”

Greater Manchester Police Chief Constable Sir Stephen Watson praised the swift actions of congregants and staff. “There were a large number of worshippers attending the synagogue at the time of this attack but thanks to the immediate bravery of security staff and the worshippers inside as well as the fast response of the police, the attacker was prevented from gaining access.”

Prime Minister Keir Starmer condemned the assault, issuing a strong statement: “I’m appalled by the attack at a synagogue in Crumpsall. The fact that this has taken place on Yom Kippur, the holiest day in the Jewish calendar, makes it all the more horrific. My thoughts are with the loved ones of all those affected, and my thanks go to the emergency services and all the first responders.”

Before boarding a flight, Starmer pledged increased protection for Jewish institutions. “We will do everything to ensure the safety of the Jewish community. Police presence will be increased around synagogues across the country.”

King Charles also spoke out, expressing his sorrow: he was “deeply saddened and shocked to learn of the horrific attack in Manchester, especially on such a significant day for the Jewish community.” The Israeli Embassy in London likewise denounced the violence, calling it “heinous and very distressing,” and added in a post on X: “We are in close contact with the Jewish community in Manchester to ensure they receive the necessary support.”

{Matzav.com}

N.Y. AG James Sues DHS for Nearly $34M Over Transit Funding Freeze

New York Attorney General Letitia James has taken the Department of Homeland Security to court, accusing the agency and Secretary Kristi Noem of illegally cutting off nearly $34 million in funding that had been awarded to the Metropolitan Transportation Authority.

The MTA, which runs New York City’s subways, buses, and regional commuter rail systems, depends heavily on federal support to sustain its vast transit network. James warned that the sudden elimination of the grant could endanger millions of daily riders.

The lawsuit was filed late Tuesday in the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of New York. In it, James demanded an emergency ruling by midnight to prevent the money from being rescinded. She emphasized that the request was not for immediate payment, but simply to freeze the funds until the court decides the outcome of the dispute.

“DHS today cut New York’s award from nearly $34 million to zero – an unlawful decision,” her office said in a statement. The release added that James’s goal for the evening was the preservation of the funds while litigation proceeds.

In her remarks, James accused the federal government of playing politics with the safety of New Yorkers. “I am asking the court to act before midnight to stop these funds from vanishing and to ensure that New Yorkers are not put at risk by this administration’s political games,” she said.

Homeland Security did not immediately provide comment when asked by Reuters about the case.

The funding dispute comes on the heels of warnings issued last month by the U.S. Transportation Department, which threatened to withhold as much as one-quarter of the MTA’s federal support unless the authority improves protections for workers who maintain subway tracks.

{Matzav.com}

Report: Israeli Navy Intercepts Gaza Flotilla, Arrests Activists

On Wednesday evening, activists aboard the Global Sumud Flotilla reported that the Israeli Navy had begun intercepting their vessels as they attempted to challenge the naval blockade on Gaza.

Videos circulating online showed an Israeli warship sailing close to one of the flotilla boats, while Al Jazeera reported that IDF forces had started detaining some of the passengers.

This development came shortly after the Israeli Navy issued what it called its last warning for the group to divert their route.

“This is the Israeli Navy. You are approaching a blockaded zone,” a naval officer was heard saying over radio communications in a clip released by the Foreign Ministry.

“If you wish to deliver aid to Gaza, you may do so through the established channels. Please change your course toward the port of Ashdod, where the aid will undergo a security inspection and then be transferred into the Gaza Strip,” the officer continued.

In its official statement, Israel’s Foreign Ministry dismissed the mission, declaring, “The sole purpose of the Hamas-Sumud flotilla is provocation. Israel, Italy, Greece, and the Latin Patriarchate of Jerusalem have all offered and continue to offer the flotilla a way to peacefully deliver any aid they might have to Gaza. The flotilla refused because they are not interested in aid, but in provocation.”

“The Israeli Navy has reached out to the Hamas-Sumud flotilla and asked them to change course. Israel has informed the flotilla that it is approaching an active combat zone and violating a lawful naval blockade. Israel reiterated the offer to transfer any aid peacefully through safe channels to Gaza,” the statement added.

Earlier in the day, the foreign ministers of Greece and Italy released a joint announcement urging the flotilla to avoid confrontation and instead accept the Latin Patriarchate of Jerusalem’s offer to transport humanitarian supplies into Gaza through secure means.

“Greece and Italy are closely monitoring developments in the Global Sumud Flotilla and call on the Israeli authorities to ensure the safety and security of the participants and to allow for all consular protection measures,” the ministers declared.

They also appealed directly to those sailing on the flotilla “to accept the Latin Patriarchate of Jerusalem’s offer to safely deliver aid intended in solidarity with the children, women, and men of Gaza.”

As the day began on Wednesday, the Global Sumud group posted on Telegram that they had noticed heightened drone surveillance as their ships drew nearer to Gaza.

“We have now entered the high-risk zone, the area where previous flotillas have been attacked and/or intercepted,” their message read.

Israel’s Foreign Ministry had already cautioned participants last week, calling it the “Hamas Flotilla” and stressing that the state would not permit any attempt to bypass the naval restrictions in place.

“This flotilla, organized by Hamas, is intended to serve Hamas. Israel will not allow vessels to enter an active combat zone and will not allow the breach of a lawful naval blockade,” the ministry said in its warning.

“If the flotilla participants’ genuine wish is to deliver humanitarian aid rather than serve Hamas, Israel calls on the vessels to dock at the Ashkelon Marina and unload the aid there, from where it will be transferred promptly in a coordinated manner to the Gaza Strip,” the statement explained.

“Israel urges the participants not to break the law and to accept Israel’s proposal for a peaceful transfer of any aid they might have,” the ministry concluded.

On Tuesday, two Hamas documents were released to the public, showing direct involvement of the terror group in bankrolling and organizing the Sumud flotilla.

The papers underscored Hamas’ coordination with flotilla leaders, particularly through the PCPA, a Hamas-linked body that operates on the movement’s behalf in the international sphere.

{Matzav.com}

Florida Greenlights Trump Presidential Library in Miami

Florida leaders have given the green light for Miami to become the permanent location of the Donald J. Trump Presidential Library, officially authorizing what will be the nation’s first library honoring both the 45th and 47th president.

Governor Ron DeSantis, along with the entire Florida Cabinet, voted in favor of transferring 2.63 acres of state-owned property to the Trump Presidential Library Foundation. The land, currently used as a Miami Dade College parking lot near the historic Freedom Tower, is set to be transformed into a major cultural landmark chronicling Trump’s time in office.

“Having the Trump Presidential Library in Miami will be good for Florida, for the city, and for Miami Dade College,” DeSantis said in a written statement. “No state has supported the president’s agenda more than the Free State of Florida, and I was proud to spearhead the effort to house this historic library right here in his home state.”

Attorney General James Uthmeier celebrated the decision, describing the upcoming institution as “a patriotic showcase for generations to come.” Chief Financial Officer Blaise Ingoglia added that the project would firmly “enshrine Florida as Trump Country.”

Eric Trump, posting on X following the Cabinet vote, hailed the development as “the greatest presidential library ever built.” He promised the Miami library would become “an icon on the Miami skyline” and contrasted it with what he called Barack Obama’s “prison-like” library design.

“I am extremely proud to announce a UNANIMOUS vote by the Florida Cabinet for the conveyance of land for the @realDonaldTrump Presidential Library which will be located in… MIAMI, FLORIDA!” Eric Trump wrote. “It will be the greatest Presidential Library ever built, honoring the greatest President our Nation has ever known. A large thank you to @GovRonDeSantis & @AGJamesUthmeier who have been incredible partners in this endeavor.

“Consistent with our families [sic] DNA, this will be one of the most beautiful buildings ever built, an Icon on the Miami skyline — rest assured it will not look like President Obama[‘s] ‘prison like structure.'”

Although architectural plans have yet to be revealed, the facility is expected to feature extensive exhibits on Trump’s administration, his political movement, and his influence on American history. Officials also expect it to draw large numbers of visitors, helping to boost tourism and economic activity in Miami’s downtown district.

{Matzav.com}

DOT Commissioner Tours Route 9 with Lakewood Leaders; Launches Official Improvement Plan

Lakewood NJ’s municipal leaders and representatives in Trenton took New Jersey Department of Transportation (DOT) Commissioner Francis K. O’Connor on a walking tour over the Route 9 bridge at Lake Carasaljo during peak driving hours, observing real-time traffic patterns, and strategizing how to best reduce traffic congestion on this key State road.

Among the attendees were Senator Robert Singer, Assemblyman Sean Kean, Assemblyman Avi Schnall, Lakewood Mayor Ray Coles, Lakewood Committeeman Meir Lichtenstein, Township Manager Pat Donnelly, and officials with the Lakewood Police Department’s Traffic and Safety Division.

In a follow-up meeting at The Residence, a 55+ Community, 68 Madison Avenue, Lakewood, Commissioner O’Connor and aides shared preliminary plans to improve Route 9 from the bridge through Prospect Street, expanding the road into up to five lanes near the Lake – with strategically placed turning lanes, expanded sidewalks, and/or other infrastructure improvements throughout the stretch of road.

These plans have just officially commenced the “concept development phase,” which is followed by several stages of official review and community input before the plans will be finalized and approved. It is expected that the improvements will ultimately improve traffic flow throughout the improved areas and reduce congestion build up on surrounding roads.

Pointing to the proposal maps on display, Committeeman Lichtenstein shared his assessment of evolving traffic pattern trends in this area, resulting from the growth of Lakewood’s business parks and the population in surrounding towns. Committeeman Lichtenstein also stressed the ability to take advantage of Lakewood’s unique calendar of reduced traffic flow during weekends, summer, and holiday seasons, during which a substantial amount of roadwork can be done with minimal inconvenience to motorists.

“I’m gratified that Commissioner O’Connor and other key officials joined us for this tour and shared their plans for these long-awaited improvements,” said Mayor Ray Coles. “Lakewood is fortunate to have the DOT as partner in the effort to eliminate one of main areas of Lakewood traffic congestion. We look forward to continue working together towards this goal.”

Committeeman Meir Lichtenstein said, “I would like to thank Commissioner O’Connor and other State officials for paying such close attention to Lakewood’s needs and working with local officials to properly understand Lakewood’s unique nuances and dynamics. Lakewood Township stands ready to help the State move this process along in the most effective and least disruptive manner possible.”

Senator Robert Singer said, “It is a testament to the great teamwork of our State legislators, the Township Committee, and the advocacy efforts of the Beth Medrash Govoha administration among other officials, that we have reached this stage. The proposed improvements can be very helpful in the near term though our ultimate goal remains the full dualization of Route 9 through South Lakewood.”

“I have known Commissioner O’Connor for years and greatly respect his commitment to get this and other crucial transportation projects done at last after we’ve invested years of effort to bring us to this point,” said Assemblyman Sean Kean. “It is beautiful to see so many officials of both parties get together on behalf of the common good and achieve real results.”

“I would like to thank Commissioner O’Connor for his commitment to Lakewood’s infrastructure needs and for sharing his vision regarding the road ahead,” said Assemblyman Avi Schnall. “I look forward to continue working at both the State and local levels to ensure that the work to alleviate Lakewood’s pressing traffic needs proceeds, and that residents will continue to see real progress on the ground.”

{Matzav.com}

Senate Defeats House-Passed Bill To Reopen Government, Despite Democratic Cracks

The Senate once more rejected a short-term funding measure on Wednesday, with Democrats voting to prevent the advancement of a House-passed continuing resolution that would have kept the government open until November 21.

The procedural vote was the third in two weeks on the same House bill, but this time senators weighed in while the government remained shut down. The legislation fell short of the 60 votes required to proceed, losing 55-45, mirroring Tuesday’s tally.

Although most Democrats stood with Majority Leader Chuck Schumer of New York, a small group broke ranks. Sen. Catherine Cortez Masto of Nevada, who serves on the Democratic leadership team, joined Sen. John Fetterman of Pennsylvania and Sen. Angus King of Maine—an independent who caucuses with Democrats—in supporting the GOP proposal. All three had also voted in favor of the measure on Tuesday night.

The only Republican who voted against the bill was Sen. Rand Paul of Kentucky, who argued that passing the resolution would simply extend what he views as unacceptable Biden-era spending levels.

Schumer insisted that Republicans’ failure to reach 60 votes underscored the futility of their strategy. He said GOP leaders need to strike a deal with Democrats that ensures the continuation of enhanced health care subsidies, which are otherwise set to expire at year’s end, and include safeguards against unilateral funding decisions by White House budget director Russell Vought.

“It’s clear that the way out of this shutdown is to sit down and negotiate with Democrats to address the looming health care crisis that faces tens of millions of American families,” Schumer told colleagues, pointing to insurance premium hikes that companies predict will hit in 2026.

“Republicans tried to bully us, and it’s clear they can’t. They don’t have the votes. The way out of this is for Republicans to finally roll up their sleeves and get to work,” Schumer declared.

On the other side, Senate GOP leadership emphasized that only the House bill could realistically reach President Trump’s desk. Senate Minority Leader John Thune of South Dakota said he plans to keep lawmakers working through the weekend to force repeated votes.

“As of this morning, critical federal employees including members of the military, Border Patrol agents and air traffic controllers are working without pay,” Thune warned. “Democrats are well aware of the damage of a government shutdown.”

Thune urged more centrist Democrats to split from Schumer’s position and support the 24-page measure, which maintains government spending at current levels. “We need a handful of Democrats to join Republicans to reopen the government and once we do that, then we can talk about the issues that Democrats are raising,” he said.

He indicated Republicans are open to discussions on extending Affordable Care Act premium subsidies, but only after the shutdown is resolved. However, Thune insisted that any extension must come alongside reforms to address “waste, fraud and abuse” in the system.

“This was supposed to be COVID-related. These are expanded ObamaCare tax credits and frankly they’re not tax credits really at all. For the most part they are direct subsidies to insurance companies,” Thune argued earlier in the week.

“If there are Democrats out there who will recognize it needs to be reformed and are willing to work with us … we are willing to have that conversation,” he said. “Anything that’s going to be done is going to have to be done with significant reforms,” he added.

{Matzav.com}

New Jersey: Governor Signs Schnall-Schorr Child Care Aid Bill for Graduate Students Amid Ongoing Funding Freeze

Graduate and post-graduate students in New Jersey will now qualify for subsidized child care under the state’s Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP), thanks to legislation signed into law on Wednesday by Governor Phil Murphy. The measure had sailed through both houses of the legislature without opposition before landing on the governor’s desk.

The initiative was championed by Assemblyman Avi Schnall of Lakewood, with strong backing from Shlomo Schorr of Agudath Israel’s New Jersey office, who lobbied aggressively for its passage. Lakewood Committeeman Meir Lichtenstein also played a crucial role in advancing the bill.

For years, CCAP has provided support for thousands of New Jersey families, but only undergraduate students had been eligible to apply. With this expansion, graduate students who satisfy existing financial and residency requirements will now have access to subsidized care for their children, easing the strain on parents trying to balance advanced studies with family responsibilities.

Yet despite the celebratory tone of the bill’s passage, the program remains hampered by serious funding problems. The Department of Human Services announced this past July that, due to budget shortfalls, it would not accept any new CCAP applications after July 31, 2025. The decision has already left many Lakewood-area households scrambling, since no new families—whether working parents, undergraduates, or graduate students—are permitted to apply until the freeze is lifted.

There is some uncertainty over whether graduate students already enrolled prior to the August 1 cutoff may be allowed to maintain eligibility, but no new applicants are being considered.

The new law also directs the Department of Human Services to pursue federal waivers and apply for adjustments under the Child Care and Development Block Grant, with the aim of unlocking federal dollars to sustain and expand the program. Meanwhile, Agudath Israel is working with state lawmakers on separate legislation that would provide DHS with the resources it says are needed to restart applications—though that process is expected to take months and would require another round of approval from Governor Murphy.

The fiscal 2026 state budget did allocate $46 million more to CCAP than the previous year. However, due to surging demand, the extra money has been used largely to maintain benefits for children already in the program. CCAP currently serves nearly 70,000 children statewide, including over 6,000 in the Lakewood community, with annual costs nearing $872 million in combined state and federal expenditures.

To qualify, families must meet strict criteria. For example, a household of four cannot have a gross annual income exceeding $64,300, while assets for families at any income level must remain below $1 million.

{Matzav.com}

Rocket Fire Disrupts Yom Kippur Silence In Ashdod

At approximately 8:50 p.m. this evening, as Yom Kippur had just started, air raid sirens echoed across Ashdod and nearby towns.

People living in the region reported that they could clearly hear blasts following the sirens.

According to a statement released by the IDF Spokesperson’s Unit, Hamas terrorists launched five rockets from the northern part of Gaza toward Israel.

The military noted that four of the incoming rockets were successfully intercepted, while another landed in an open field. No casualties were reported in the incident.

Earlier in the day, around 2:00 p.m., warning sirens were also activated in the communities adjacent to the Gaza border.

The IDF later confirmed that in that incident, two rockets fired from northern Gaza had likely been brought down by the Israeli Air Force, and there were no injuries.

{Matzav.com}

Hamas Signals It Could Reject Trump’s Gaza Peace Plan That Only ‘Serves Israel’s Interests’

A top official from Hamas said Wednesday that the group is leaning toward dismissing President Trump’s Gaza peace initiative, arguing it “serves Israel’s interests” while sidelining Palestinian concerns.

According to BBC News, Hamas leaders object to several of the 20 stipulations outlined in Trump’s proposal to end the conflict. Among the disputed points are requirements that the group surrender its arsenal and dismantle its military capacity, along with the introduction of an International Stabilization Force in Gaza.

Although Israel has already agreed to Trump’s framework, Hamas has not yet issued a formal response to the plan, leaving the proposal in limbo several days after its presentation.

On Tuesday, Trump placed a strict deadline on the group, saying Hamas had “three or four days” to comply with the deal, warning that otherwise the organization would meet “a very sad end.”

“We’re just waiting for Hamas,” Trump told reporters, stressing that there was “not much” room left for bargaining.

Diplomatic sources in the Arab world expressed a more hopeful outlook, telling the Wall Street Journal that Hamas has not completely ruled out the terms but requested extra time to work through points of disagreement.

Part of their hesitation stems from fears that loopholes in the arrangement could give Israel an opening to quickly reignite hostilities.

“Accepting the plan is a disaster, rejecting it is another, there are only bitter choices here, but the plan is a Netanyahu plan articulated by Trump,” a Palestinian official familiar with the discussions told Reuters.

“Hamas is keen to end the war and end the genocide and it will respond in the way that serves the higher interests of the Palestinian people.”

The conditions laid out by Trump include an immediate halt to fighting, the release of all hostages, a gradual withdrawal of Israeli forces from Gaza, the dismantling of Hamas’ weapons, and the establishment of an interim governing body under international supervision.

While Hamas has shown willingness to consider some of these ideas in the past, its leadership has consistently refused to disarm unless there is a definitive pathway toward Palestinian statehood.

Israeli Prime Minister Bibi Netanyahu formally endorsed the proposal on Monday, facing mounting pressure within Israel to bring the conflict to an end.

{Matzav.com}

Chicago Mayor Johnson: President Trump ‘Is an Unstable Human Being’

On Tuesday’s edition of CNN’s The Situation Room, Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson (D) sharply criticized President Donald Trump, calling him “an unstable human being.”

Host Wolf Blitzer introduced the exchange by airing remarks Trump had delivered earlier that day while speaking to senior U.S. military leaders at the Marine base in Quantico, Virginia. Blitzer said, “I want to play something President Trump said last hour as he addressed senior U.S. military officers at the Marine base at Quantico, Virginia. Listen to this, then I’ll get your reaction.”

In his comments, Trump declared, “It’s really a very important mission and I told Pete we should use some of these dangerous cities as training grounds for our military, National Guard, but military, because we’re going into Chicago very soon.”

Blitzer followed up by asking, “Mayor, what’s your reaction to that?”

Johnson did not hold back, replying, “This is absolutely appalling. This president is an unstable human being, and it’s right for this moment to check him. We’re calling on Congress to do its job. There’s no way that anyone in this country should be OK with armed militarized troops being sent to cities. These individuals, these brave women and men who sign up to serve and protect this country, they do not do it with being deployed against American citizens and residents in mind. This is not only appalling, but this is quite frankly an egregious attempt to undermine the sanctity of our democracy.”

{Matzav.com}

NYT Poll: Support for Israel Drops — Almost Entirely Due to Democrats

A new survey finds that overall American backing for Israel has dropped sharply, though Republican voters remain much more consistent in their support. The steep decline is largely being driven by Democrats moving away from the Jewish state.

The New York Times/Siena College poll was highlighted with the headline, “Americans’ Support for Israel Dramatically Declines, Times/Siena Poll Finds.” Yet tucked deeper into the piece was the main takeaway: the change in attitudes stems mainly from Democrats, while Republicans have mostly stayed aligned with Israel, with only a slight dip in enthusiasm.

According to the poll, seven out of ten Republicans are in favor of providing additional U.S. aid to Israel. A majority also said Israel should continue its military operations until every hostage is freed, even if that results in civilian casualties. Nearly half of Republican respondents—47 percent—believed the Israeli military is doing enough to limit civilian harm.

Republicans also remain far more sympathetic toward Israel than toward the Palestinians, by a margin of 64 percent to 9 percent. Still, those numbers are down significantly from 2023, when 76 percent of Republicans expressed sympathy with Israel, marking a 12-point drop.

Analysts point to a number of reasons why Democratic support has collapsed. Some attribute it to the growing radicalization of the party base, which increasingly resists strong pro-Israel stances.

Others argue that cultural differences are at play. As a former Israeli ambassador to Washington explained in a 2018 interview with Breitbart News, Democrats increasingly shy away from traditional elements of nationalism—such as land, military strength, and sovereignty—that remain central to Israeli society.

But perhaps the most decisive factor, observers suggest, is President Donald Trump. Democrats’ strong opposition to him has translated into waning support for Israel, since Trump has been closely associated with the country. With Prime Minister Bibi Netanyahu calling him “the greatest friend that Israel has ever had in the White House,” many believe it was only a matter of time before Democrats soured on Israel, despite decades of bipartisan backing.

{Matzav.com}

AOC: Trump Wants to ‘Make Sure that Kids Are Dying’


Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (D-N.Y.) told viewers on MSNBC’s All In that President Donald Trump’s actions have put children’s lives at risk by threatening access to health coverage, repeating her assertion that he wants “to just make sure that kids are dying because they don’t have access to insurance.”

During the interview, host Chris Hayes pressed her on a claim he said he’d heard circulating — that some observers believe Senate Democrats’ refusal to back a short-term funding deal stems from Sen. Chuck Schumer’s fear of a left-wing primary challenge from her. “Are you planning to primary challenge him? Do you think that’s why he’s doing this?” Hayes asked directly.

Ocasio-Cortez rejected the premise that the dispute is about her, saying the stakes are far higher: ensuring families can keep their children covered. “This is so not about me in this moment. This is about people being able to insure their children. I will say, because I saw some senators speculating about this, and I saw some Republican members of Congress saying, oh, well, if we have this shutdown, it’s because of AOC, well, if that’s the case, my office is open, and you are free to walk in and negotiate with me directly. Because what I’m not going to do is tolerate 4 million uninsured Americans, because Donald Trump decided one day that he wants to just make sure that kids are dying because they don’t have access to insurance. That’s what’s not going to happen. So if those senators think that we’re having a shutdown because of me, they’re free to enter my office and negotiate, because what we’re not going to do is allow all of millions of people in this country to not be able to afford their insulin and chemotherapy. So come stick a deal with me.”

{Matzav.com}

TERROR SUPPORTERS: Hunter College Grad Who Tore Down Hamas Hostage Posters In Viral Video Worked For Zohran Mamdani’s Office

A Hunter College graduate who made headlines after being filmed aggressively ripping down posters of Israelis kidnapped by Hamas later secured an internship inside the state assembly office of leading mayoral candidate Zohran Mamdani, The NY Post reports.

Frances Macalimbon Hamed, whose image appeared in The Post in 2023 after she and another activist were caught destroying hostage-awareness posters, eventually took a position as a “constituent-services intern” in Mamdani’s Queens district office.

On Tuesday, Mamdani’s mayoral campaign acknowledged Hamed had indeed been one of his interns but stressed that the lawmaker had not been aware of the video footage when she was brought on board.

“This individual is and has never been employed by the Mamdani campaign,” Mamdani’s spokesperson said.

“She was not employed by the Assembly office when this occurred nor did they know of this video or this incident when she was hired.”

According to a biography posted on Hunter’s website, the Bronx-born activist worked in Mamdani’s legislative office from February through May, handling matters like unemployment and housing assistance for constituents.

That same profile also mentioned Hamed’s future ambitions, which included seeking a role at either the Mayor’s Office of Immigrant Affairs or the Mayor’s Office of Asylum-Seeker Operations.

Her position in Mamdani’s office came roughly two years after she and fellow activist Jonathan Isla Rampagoa were filmed tearing down hostage posters that had been put up near Hunter’s Upper East Side campus following Hamas’s October 7, 2023 massacre in Israel.

“What is your name? Are you from Hunter?” someone can be heard asking the pair in the viral video, as Hamed repeatedly attempted to cover her face from the camera.

The incident exploded online after the watchdog group StopAntisemitism shared the clip, with internet users swiftly identifying the students involved.

Attempts by The Post to reach Hamed for comment were not successful.

She is not the only intern connected to Mamdani’s Assembly office who has been linked to anti-Israel activism.

Another intern, City College student Hadeeqa Arzoo Malik, who worked with Mamdani before he launched his mayoral run, was once videotaped scolding a Muslim police officer at a pro-Palestinian demonstration over his decision to serve in law enforcement.

Malik also held a summer 2024 internship in Mamdani’s district office, where her LinkedIn page says she assisted with communications, outreach, policy, and constituent services.

{Matzav.com}

Candace Owens Again Pushes Baseless Claim Linking Israel to Charlie Kirk’s Death

Conservative commentator Candace Owens has intensified her controversial remarks, repeating an unfounded allegation that Israel was responsible for the death of Turning Point USA founder Charlie Kirk, while also suggesting the organization itself was tied to the supposed plot.

Owens, who has often made headlines for provocative commentary, argued that Kirk was targeted just two days before he and Owens were scheduled to appear together publicly. “About 48 hours before Charlie Kirk died, Charlie informed people at Turning Point, as well as Jewish donors and a rabbi, that he had no choice but to abandon the pro-Israel cause outright,” she claimed, pointing to what she alleged was a motive for silencing him.

She went on to say that Kirk had wanted to bring her back into the Turning Point fold despite pushback from funders. “He also expressed that he wanted to bring me, Candace Owens, back because he was standing up for himself,” she added, describing it as resistance to pressure from “Jewish donors.”

Owens argued that the circumstances of his death were deliberate. “He just, 48 hours later, conveniently catch a bullet to the throat, before our on-stage reunion could happen,” she stated.

{Matzav.com}

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