Andres-Acebo-headshot-8475-Paul-Gargiulo-crop.jpg

Acebo given 18-month extension as interim president at NJCU

[ad_1]

Andres Acebo. (File photo)

Andrés Acebo had his contract as interim president at New Jersey City University extended for 18 months by the NJCU Board of Trustees Monday night.

The extension will begin on Jan. 1, taking Acebo through June 30, 2026 – at a minimum. There is a provision for an additional one-year extension at that time.

Financial terms of the extension were not announced. His original two-year contract was scheduled to end in the middle of January of 2025.

Acebo has done an incredible job since being named interim president in January of 2023 in the middle of a financial crisis that was threatening to shut down the school. (He was named No. 1 on the ROI-NJ: Influencers list for higher education in 2024.)

Working with the school’s leadership, faculty and many union partners, he has helped NJCU survive and thrive while creating the school’s Recovery and Revitalization Plan (April 2023), its first Strategic Enrollment Plan (April 2023) and its first Academic Master Plan (February 2024) — as well as introduce a brand refresh that produced the school’s first mission statement.

The school now has a balanced budget less than two years after declaring a financial emergency, helping it get its outlook by Moody’s upgraded from “negative” to “stable.”

NJCU is not out of the financial woods yet, however. Talks on how to strengthen the school continue. Monday night only assured that Acebo will be one of the leaders in those talks.



[ad_2]
Source link

Screenshot 2024-12-09 161313

Giants Host Freedom Wing at Salute to Service Game: A Day of Honor and Celebration, 514th Air Mobility Wing Participates in Salute to Service at MetLife Stadium

On November 17, 2024, the New York Football Giants hosted a remarkable Salute to Service game at MetLife Stadium, paying tribute to the brave men and women of the United States Armed Forces. Although the NFL’s Salute to Service campaign was launched in 2011, the Giants have a long-standing relationship with the military that dates back to World War II, and this event was a testament to their continued dedication to honoring military service members.

This year, the Giants had the privilege of hosting members from the 514th Air Mobility Wing, a part of the Air Force Reserve Command based at Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst in New Jersey. The Airmen were treated to VIP experiences, enjoying the game from luxury suites while taking part in special moments designed to celebrate their service and sacrifice.

A VIP Experience for the 514th Air Mobility Wing

Before the game kicked off, members of the 514th were invited onto the field for an unforgettable experience. They had the chance to watch the warm-ups up close, pose for photos with Giants players, and form the gauntlet through which the Giants ran to take the field. The atmosphere was electric, with players and Airmen alike sharing a bond of pride and respect as they prepared for a memorable day.

As the game progressed, two members of the 514th were given the chance to participate in truly unique and emotional moments in front of more than 70,000 fans. These moments allowed the service members to shine in a way that few could ever expect.

Master Sgt. Kristen Warbrick Sings the National Anthem

One of the highlights of the day came when Master Sgt. Kristen Warbrick, an aeromedical evacuation technician with the 514th Aeromedical Evacuation Squadron, performed the national anthem. Warbrick, a lifelong Giants fan, had sung the anthem at various ceremonies in the past, but nothing compared to the magnitude of performing in front of such a large and passionate crowd.

“I’ve sung the national anthem for retirements, deactivations, and other ceremonies, but to perform in front of this many people at a Salute to Service game—I was amazed and extremely proud,” Warbrick said. “I looked up, and the audience was standing, clapping, and cheering, all to honor those who’ve served. It was a very emotional moment for me.”

As she concluded her powerful rendition of the anthem, a C-17 Globemaster III flyover by the 732nd Airlift Squadron soared above the stadium, adding to the patriotic spirit of the day.

Senior Airman Christopher Megna Kicks a Field Goal

In another unforgettable moment, Senior Airman Christopher Megna, an operations manager with the 514th Civil Engineer Squadron, was selected to kick a field goal during halftime. Megna, a lifelong football fan and a passionate Giants supporter, had the opportunity to take center stage in a high-stakes moment at the home stadium of his favorite team.

“It was amazing,” Megna said of the experience. “I’m a huge Giants fan, so being able to see the players and then being chosen to kick the field goal—it was amazing.”

With the guidance of Senior Master Sgt. Dakota Bordelon, who helped coach Megna on the technique, the pair practiced the field goal attempt during the first quarter. Their hard work and teamwork paid off when Megna successfully kicked not just one, but two field goals during the halftime show.

“It meant everything to me to be able to represent the Air Force at my favorite team’s home stadium,” Megna said. “I’ve grown up playing football my entire life, so this was a dream—an absolute dream.”

A Day to Remember for Warbrick and Megna

For both Warbrick and Megna, the Salute to Service game was not just a moment of recognition but a chance to connect deeply with their fellow service members and their love for the Giants. Warbrick, whose father had served as the command chief at the 514th from 2013-2016, reflected on how special the experience was for her.

“It was incredible to be able to represent my squadron, the Freedom Wing, and the Air Force in general, but the whole experience was even more meaningful because I am also a lifelong Giants fan,” Warbrick said. “The 514th has been a second home for almost my entire life. The opportunities the Air Force has afforded me have been amazing, and I couldn’t have asked for a better memory.”

For Megna, the day marked a culmination of his passion for football and his commitment to serving in the Air Force.

“This was a once-in-a-lifetime experience,” Megna added. “To represent the Air Force in front of a Giants crowd—it was an honor.”

As the Giants continue to honor the service of those in the Armed Forces, the Salute to Service game in 2024 will undoubtedly remain a cherished memory for the 514th Air Mobility Wing and the entire Giants community. This event was a powerful reminder of the strength of the connection between sports, patriotism, and the sacrifices made by our military personnel.

514th Air Mobility Wing Participates in Salute to Service at MetLife Stadium

On November 17, 2024, Reserve Citizen Airmen from the 514th Air Mobility Wing at Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst, New Jersey, had the unique honor of attending and participating in the NFL’s Salute to Service event during a New York Giants game at MetLife Stadium. The Salute to Service game is a special occasion that celebrates and honors the men and women of the U.S. Armed Forces, and this year, the 514th was invited to take part in an unforgettable experience.

A Day of Honor and Recognition

The 514th Air Mobility Wing members were treated to a VIP experience at MetLife Stadium. Before the game, they were invited onto the field to watch the warm-ups, giving them a close-up view of the Giants as they prepared for the game. The Airmen had the opportunity to pose for photos with the players, creating lasting memories of their day at the stadium. This behind-the-scenes access was just the beginning of the special treatment the service members would receive.

Forming the Gauntlet

As the game was set to begin, the members of the 514th were given a truly memorable role. They formed a gauntlet through which the Giants players ran as they took the field. The sight of the Airmen standing proudly in formation, ready to welcome the team, added an extra layer of meaning to the event. It was a powerful moment that symbolized the connection between the military and sports, and the mutual respect and admiration between the Giants and the Armed Forces.

This participation in the Salute to Service game not only allowed the 514th to honor their commitment to service but also demonstrated the deep bond between the New York Giants and the military community. The day at MetLife Stadium was a fitting tribute to those who serve and sacrifice for the nation, creating an experience that will be remembered for years to come.

xmas-Dec9.jpg

Theater to Go hosts “White Christmas Movie Sing Along” on Saturday at Kelsey Theatre

[ad_1]

originally published: 12/09/2024

(WEST WINDSOR, NJ) — Join Bing Crosby, Danny Kaye, Vera Ellen, and Rosemary Clooney on the big screen in a holiday event where the audience is the star when Theater to Go hosts the “White Christmas Movie Sing Along,” one night only on on Saturday, December 14, 2024 at the Kelsey Theatre on Mercer County Community College’s (MCCC) West Windsor Campus. The event begins at 8:00pm.

This classic star-studded movie featuring Hollywood legends is now an interactive sing along and play along movie experience. “White Christmas”  is a 1954 American musical war film featuring the songs of Irving Berlin, including the title song, which is  featured twice during the film.

But the most important cast member is the audience, who are not only allowed, but encouraged, to sing along. The crowd participates to varying degrees, with some in full costume and others just along for the ride. Packed with audience participation activities and a goody bag of props to use throughout the movie, the audience will be guided by hosts to sing along and play along with the movie. Some of the classic songs include Sisters, Count Your Blessings Instead of Sheep, and of course, White Christmas. Prize awarded to an audience member in costume, plus a special recognition for military members and veterans who attend in uniform. Come early for holiday treats and the “ugly sweater” contest!

The event will be led by Elizabeth Rzasa, Jeff Price and Tom Bessellieu, who will guide the activities, introduce the film and, of course, sing along with everyone.

The “White Christmas Movie Sing Along” will be held at MCCC’s Kelsey Theatre, 1200 Old Trenton Road in West Windsor, NJ, on Saturday, December 14 at 8:00pm. Tickets are $22 for adults, $20 for seniors and students, and includes a goody bag. They may be purchased online at kelseytheatre.org or by calling the Kelsey Box Office at (609) 570-3333. Kelsey Theatre is wheelchair accessible, with free parking available next to the Theater.

Founded in 1992  by Ruth Markoe, Theater To Go has been renowned for producing interactive events around the region and across the country for private, corporate and public groups. Starting out with murder mysteries exclusively, T2G now offers movie musical sing-alongs, as well as traditional stage productions.

Please support the advertisers at New Jersey Stage!
Want info on how to advertise? Click here

[ad_2]

Source link

Screenshot 2024-12-08 093624

Giant Buddha Statue in New Jersey Becomes a Spiritual Sanctuary and Interfaith Gathering Place

In Franklin Township, just off a busy state highway in New Jersey, stands one of the largest Buddha statues in the United States—a 30-foot-tall symbol of peace and spiritual unity. Nestled within the New Jersey Buddhist Vihara and Meditation Center, this monumental statue has become a unique beacon for interfaith connection and a spiritual sanctuary for people from diverse religious backgrounds.

Built a decade ago under the leadership of a Sri Lankan Theravada Buddhist monk, the statue was designed with a singular vision: to unite people of all faiths. Since its installation, it has served not only as a place for Buddhist meditation but also as a gathering point for Hindus, Christians, and people of various other spiritual traditions. Its serene presence amidst the woods, framed by Route 27’s bustling traffic, reflects the surprising blend of tranquility and modern life that defines New Jersey’s rich religious landscape.

Among those drawn to the statue is Daniel Choi, a Princeton University professor raised in a Korean Christian church. Choi, who now practices Tibetan Buddhism, has meditated in front of the Buddha since 2015. “It just seems to be a nexus where a lot of people connect,” he says. The center, though primarily rooted in Theravada Buddhism—the tradition practiced in Sri Lanka, Burma, and Thailand—welcomes a variety of Buddhist practices, making it a rare public space where people of different traditions can come together in spiritual harmony.

This inclusivity is seen in the variety of people who visit, from Sri Lankan Buddhists to Korean, Chinese, Indian, and Nepalese communities. The peaceful atmosphere is further enhanced by the center’s colorful Tibetan prayer flags and an interfaith peace mural, painted by local students, that reflects the religious diversity of central New Jersey. The mural includes symbols from Buddhism, Christianity, Sikhism, Baha’i, and other faiths, emphasizing the shared values of peace and compassion across religious boundaries.

The statue itself stands as a calm and collected symbol, offering solace to those who seek it. “Anybody who comes to that temple feels so calm and collected once they see that big Buddha,” says Tulsi Majarjan, director of Friends of Nepal-NJ. For him, the Buddha represents a deeper, universal calm that transcends religious lines. His organization has played a key role in promoting interfaith dialogue and creating the peace garden that surrounds the statue.

Carol Kruhen, a retired high school teacher who lives next door to the monastery, has seen firsthand the impact of the Buddha statue. Raised as a Presbyterian, Kruhen became interested in Buddhism after reading Herman Hesse’s Siddhartha and began practicing yoga. The arrival of the saffron-robed monks in 2002 led her to deepen her practice, finding comfort in meditation and Buddhism during a time of grief following her husband’s death. For Kruhen, the Buddha statue is not just a monument but a daily source of reflection on peace, understanding, and compassion.

“It’s the first thing I look at in the morning,” Kruhen says, sharing how the sight of the Buddha from her window has become integral to her daily life. “The whole point of Buddhism is to live in the moment. Meditation gave me a way to focus on the positive.”

Today, the New Jersey Buddhist Vihara and Meditation Center stands as a testament to the power of faith to bridge divides. Whether visitors are drawn to its peaceful atmosphere, its commitment to interfaith dialogue, or the simple, profound presence of the Buddha statue, it has become a spiritual home for many, offering a place to connect, reflect, and grow in understanding.

For those seeking a space for peace, spiritual exploration, or interfaith community, the New Jersey Buddhist Vihara is a unique and welcoming destination—a true reflection of the diverse, interconnected world in which we live.

DH_TREE-LIGHTING_BORO_DH_010-scaled.jpg

Claus family coming to Bennett Cabin at Riverfront Park – Star News Group

[ad_1]

POINT PLEASANT — The historic Bennett Cabin, located at Riverfront Park, will once again be hosting Santa and Mrs. Claus for two days of Christmas cheer when residents can visit the cabin and get a picture with the famous couple.

The free event will be on Saturday, Dec. 14, and Sunday, Dec. 15, from 2 to 5 p.m.

Keeping with the tradition from previous years, model trains will be set up inside the cabin for families to enjoy. Hot chocolate and cookies will also be available to all attendees.

Mayor Robert Sabosik said, “Santa is going to have a prelude to him arriving on the night of Dec. 24. Once again we will be opening the Bennett Cabin with hot chocolate and cookies and unveil Santa and Mrs. Claus to our residents and children.”

“This event is showcasing different properties the town owns and is another way to give back to our residents. Evenings and afternoons that they can enjoy with their children, grandchildren and friends,” he added.

One family at a time will get a chance to meet Santa, with a professional photographer ready to take and print the family’s picture, before the family leaves the cabin. Residents are also encouraged to bring their own camera to take more photos if they so wish.

This is an excerpt of the print article. For more on this story, read The Ocean Star—on newsstands Friday or online in our e-Edition.

Check out our other Point Pleasant Boro stories, updated daily. And remember to pick up a copy of The Ocean Star—on newsstands Friday or online in our e-Edition.

Subscribe today! If you’re not already an annual subscriber to The Ocean Star, get your subscription today! For just $38 per year, you will receive local mail delivery weekly, with pages and pages of local news and online access to our e-edition on Starnewsgroup.com.

[ad_2]

Source link

sustainability.jpeg

Preliminary Draft of the State Development and Redevelopment Plan Released

[ad_1]

sustainability

Government

On Dec 6, 2024

The State Planning Commission has approved publication of the Preliminary Draft Plan of the State Development and Redevelopment Plan, marking the first time the plan has been updated since 2001.  

Used as a guide to inform the public and encourage state agencies, counties, and municipalities to align their land use policies with its vision, the plan promotes a balanced and inclusive strategy for managing and guiding growth across the state. It is centered on 10 key land use priorities, including: economic development; housing; infrastructure; revitalization and recentering; climate change; natural and water resources; pollution and environmental cleanup; historic and scenic resources; equity; and comprehensive planning.

“The State Plan reflects decades of progress and underscores our commitment to balanced growth, equitable development, and opportunity for all New Jerseyans,” said Gov. Phil Murphy. 

According to Ray Cantor, deputy chief government affairs officer of the New Jersey Business & Industry Association, the business community supports the plan.  “If done right, it will not only protect ecologically sensitive lands but will designate lands where we can develop and grow and build the affordable housing we need,” Cantor said. 

He added that he was pleased to see that the plan did not specifically reference incorporation of DEP’s proposed Inundation Risk Zones, although it did state that it would defer to DEP on making these decisions.   

“If DEP moves forward with their rule proposal and if it is subsequently incorporated into the State Plan, it will undermine its development, housing, and other economic goals,” Cantor said.

DEP Commissioner Shawn M. LaTourette commented, ”Alongside our local government partners, the DEP plays a leading role in implementing the smart growth mindset of the State Plan while ensuring site-specific consistency with New Jersey’s flood safety, water quality, and land resource protection laws. It helps to guide the development and redevelopment of residential and commercial centers more resilient to the challenges of our changing climate, including risks of drought, wildfire, and flooding.” 

Two past attempts to finalize a State Development and Redevelopment Plan failed under the administrations of Gov. Jon Corzine and Gov. Chris Christie. Gov. Murphy has said he wants a plan finalized before he leaves office at the end of next year. 

The Department of State’s Office of Planning Advocacy began outreach last year to develop the draft. Starting Feb. 12, 2025, an intensive two-month public comment period will feature meetings in every county. These hearings will continue through April 16, 2025, and initiate a cross-acceptance process, comparing municipal, county, and state land use plans with the State Plan to achieve maximum consistency across all levels of government. 

Read the full Preliminary Draft of the State Development and Redevelopment Plan here. 

To access more business news, visit NJB News Now.

Related Articles:

[ad_2]

Source link

Jack-Hughes-Devils-8.jpg

Projected Lineups for Kraken vs Devils – 12/6/24 – The Hockey Writers – Seattle Kraken

[ad_1]

The Seattle Kraken take on the New Jersey Devils tonight. Here are the projected/expected lineups sourced from NHL.com staff writers, independent correspondents, and others.

KRAKEN (13-13-1) at DEVILS (17-9-2)

7 p.m. ET; KHN, KING 5, MSGSN, KONG

Kraken projected lineup

Jared McCann — Chandler Stephenson — Brandon Tanev
Jaden Schwartz — Matty Beniers — Yanni Gourde
Eeli Tolvanen — Shane Wright — Oliver Bjorkstrand
Tye Kartye — Mitchell Stephens — Ryan Winterton

Jamie Oleksiak — Brandon Montour
Vince Dunn– Adam Larsson
Josh Mahura — Will Borgen

Philipp Grubauer
Joey Daccord

Scratched: Daniel Sprong, Andre Burakovsky

Injured: Jordan Eberle (pelvis), Ryker Evans (hand)

Status report

  • Seattle did not hold a skate on Friday after a 5-2 win at the New York Islanders on Thursday.
  • Gourde is expected to play after missing the final 17:50 of the third period on Thursday due to “bumps and bruises.” 

Latest for THW:

Devils projected lineup

Ondrej Palat — Jack Hughes — Jesper Bratt
Timo Meier — Nico Hischier — Stefan Noesen
Tomas Tatar — Erik Haula — Dawson Mercer
Paul Cotter — Justin Dowling — Nathan Legare

Brenden Dillon — Dougie Hamilton
Jonas Siegenthaler — Johnathan Kovacevic
Luke Hughes — Brett Pesce

Jacob Markstrom
Jake Allen

Scratched: Nick DeSimone, Kurtis MacDermid

Injured: Nathan Bastian (jaw), Curtis Lazar (knee)

Status report

  • Tatar will return to the lineup after missing the past two games with a lower body injury.
  • Bastian will miss his 15th straight game, but the forward continues to work and practice with the team wearing a full face shield.

Latest for THW:

Substack Subscribe to the THW Daily and never miss the best of The Hockey Writers Banner


[ad_2]

Source link

holly.jpg

The Most Electable NJ GOP Gubernatorial Prospect – Holly Schepisi

[ad_1]

New Jersey Republican players are awash in a sea of optimism regarding the 2025 gubernatorial campaign.  This is due to the closer than expected margin in the Garden State between Joe Biden and Donald Trump in the November presidential general election.  This optimism may be very misplaced, however, depending on the actions of the incoming Trump administration.

If, for example, Trump conducts a major deportation of undocumented immigrants, affecting the lives of thousands of New Jersey Hispanics or makes large reductions in Social Security or Medicare benefits, the result will be a massive backlash against the New Jersey Republican Party. The 2025 New Jersey gubernatorial election will then become a referendum on such Trump administration policies, which would virtually ensure a Democratic gubernatorial victory.

Yet aside from this, the NJGOP has a major electability problem regarding its three major gubernatorial candidates.   State Senator Jon Bramnick is the most electable GOP candidate in the general election, but unwinnable in the primary. Radio host Bill Spadea could well prevail in the primary, but in the general election, he is a certain loser.  While Jack Ciattarelli is the putative frontrunner, his past tergiversations and equivocations regarding Donald Trump have resulted in substantial losses of credibility among both MAGA and mainstream GOP primary voters. A brief analysis of all three candidates follows.

Jon Bramnick

Bramnick has been an outstanding state legislator for over two decades.  He has maintained a coherent and comprehensive center-right political philosophy throughout his tenure.  His ethics are unimpeachable, and his competence as a lawyer is outstanding.  His knowledge of state government is topflight, and he has the knowledge and administrative and people skills to be an outstanding state governor. If nominated, he would have a very good chance of being elected.

The day before Election Day 2024, I opined to a friend that if Trump lost the national election to Kamala Harris, Bramnick could emerge as the leading New Jersey Republican gubernatorial prospect for the post-Trump era.  As the leading anti-Trump New Jersey opinion journalist, I admired his courage and incisiveness in refusing to support Donald Trump, his party’s candidate for president in 2016, 2020, and 2024.

Unfortunately for Bramnick, Donald Trump won in 2024.  He will remain the avatar of the Republican Party until discredited by events.  As long as Trump retains that status, Jon Bramnick cannot win a statewide New Jersey Republican primary.

Bill Spadea

Spadea has two major assets that could enable him to win the Republican primary.  First, he will have the support of the overwhelming majority of MAGA voters.  Second, he has the endorsement of George Gilmore, the powerful and effective chair of the Ocean County Republican Committee.  The combination of a large victory in Ocean County, which will have the largest vote in the 2025 GOP primary, plus a majority of MAGA voters throughout the state could enable Bill Spadea, with his not insubstantial communication skills and charisma, to prevail in the 2025 NJGOP gubernatorial primary.
There are aspects to Spadea which actually make him more likable than Trump.   The Donald is anti-intellectual and communicates a negative sense of empathy which appeals only to a voter’s grievance and anger.  Spadea projects a hopeful Reaganesque empathy to voters and also possesses a healthy degree of historical intellectualism.  Also, unlike Trump, Spadea is neither racist nor a misogynist.  He is without personal or financial scandal and leads a monogamous lifestyle.

Yet due to his vehement anti-abortion choice stance, Spadea would be doomed in the 2025 gubernatorial general election.  Abortion choice is a third rail of New Jersey politics.  Rather than deemphasizing his anti-abortion choice views a la Chris Christie in the 2009 election, Spadea has made them the centerpiece of his campaign.  Such a positioning is anathema to the great majority of women voters and consigns Bill Spadea to a landslide general election defeat.

Jack Ciatarelli

In the 2017 Republican gubernatorial primary, Jack Ciatarelli ran as a principled anti-Trump candidate and won my admiration.  Unfortunately, unlike Jon Bramnick, Ciattarelli proved to be a man whose ambitions vitiated his principles.

A column I authored during the 2021 campaign described Ciattarelli’s obsequious efforts to appease and appeal to MAGA voters, even going so far as to attend a MAGA Stop-the-Steal rally.   These efforts only won him the mistrust of both MAGA and mainstream GOP voters.

There is a pac group in this election, Kitchen Table Conservatives, independent of Ciatarelli but with the obvious objective of defeating Spadea, Ciatarelli’s principal primary opponent, on the grounds that Spadea is insufficiently pro-Trump.  Such efforts will undoubtedly result in abysmal failure.  One may be harshly critical of Spadea on various grounds, but not of being insufficiently pro-Trump.

I am not saying that Ciattarelli absolutely cannot win either a primary or general gubernatorial election. The mistrust factor does persist, however, and hampers both his nomination and general election chances.

The electoral problems facing Ciattarelli, Bramnick, and Spadea raise the incentive for Bergen County State Senator Holly Schepisi to run for governor. She is the most electable gubernatorial prospect in the New Jersey Republican Party.   She is everybody’s favorite for the GOP Lieutenant Governor nomination, but she has not yet ruled out a gubernatorial run.

On the issue of Trump, Holly has maintained a consistent position of unenthusiastic, but never disloyal support.  This makes her acceptable to all wings of the GOP in the primary and the prospective candidate least likely to be negatively impacted by any downturn in Trump’s approval ratings in the general.  On abortion, she has taken a sensible centrist position, defending a woman’s right to choose while willing to consider common sense restrictions.

There are two major benefits that a Schepisi gubernatorial candidacy would bestow on the NJGOP.  First, she would give the GOP a solid chance to carry Bergen County in the general.  Indeed, her political heritage is with the Bergen County Cary Edwards Republicans. The late Cary Edwards would have been a great governor had he been elected in 1989 or 1993.  Second, more than any other candidate, she gives the Republicans a fighting chance to garner a greater share of the vote of white college educated women.

Prior to the 2019 general election, I authored a column effusively praising Schepisi for both her governmental and attorney skills.   She would make an outstanding governor of New Jersey.  To run, however, she will have to soon decide to enter the primary in order to raise sufficient funds and hire staff.

Alan J. Steinberg of Highland Park served as regional administrator of Region 2 EPA during the administration of former President George W. Bush and as executive director of the New Jersey Meadowlands Commission. He graduated from Northwestern University and the University of Wisconsin Law School.  He is the host of the Dynamic Political Centrism podcast, published on Substack.

(Visited 2,062 times, 83 visits today)

[ad_2]

Source link

morris-county-veterans-office-entrance.jpg

Commissioners Approve More Than $3.8 Million In Human Services – Morris County, NJ

[ad_1]

Published on December 06, 2024

Morris County Veterans Office The Morris County Board of County Commissioners approved more than $3.8 million in 2025 Grant-in-Aid (GIA) funding to support 76 human services related programs in the coming year that were recommended by volunteer advisory committees to the county Department of Human Services.

The Board of Commissioners annually allocates the grant funds to support critical support services for Morris County residents, while also enhancing and/or expanding human services programs funded through other funding streams, such as Chapter 51 funding for substance use, funding under the New Jersey State Community Partnership to assist youths and the Social Services for the Homeless grant to assist those experiencing homelessness.

“The Board of County Commissioners is proud to allocate $3.8 million to support 76 critical human services programs, ensuring resources reach seniors, individuals with disabilities, our youth, and those facing homelessness. This funding reflects our commitment to enhancing the quality of life for all Morris County residents,” said Commissioner Director Christine Myers, liaison to Human Services.

The grant proposals were reviewed and endorsed by the county’s Advisory Council on Aging, Disabilities and Veterans (ACADV); the Human Services Advisory Council (HSAC), the Mental Health Addiction Services Advisory Board (MHASAB) and the Youth Services Advisory Committee (YSAC).

Some services that are funded for seniors only through the Federal Area Plan Grant can be made available through the GIA funding to adults with a disability who are under 60. The services include case management, information and referral, housekeeping services, minor home repairs, caregiver respite through childcare, in-home mental health access, home health aides and visiting nurses.  

Additionally, the GIA funding supports programs that would not otherwise be available to the community such as recreation and socialization services, teaching life skills and job training programs for adults with a disability.

The county advisory committees, appointed by the Board of Commissioners, play a critical role in the GIA process by advising the Department of Human Services in setting service priorities, reviewing funding proposals, making funding recommendations and monitoring programs. This annual process works to ensure funded programs meet the current community needs and provide a high-quality service in the process.

2025 Funding Highlights

General Human Services

  • With the increased need for domestic violence services throughout the state, Morris County HSAC recommended prioritizing the services with funding to JBWS, which provides safety and support to people fleeing abuse, and Legal Services of Northwest Jersey.  Legal Services of Northwest Jersey provides legal representation to victims of domestic violence through the Legal Intervention Brings Recovery & Empowerment (LIBRE) program, which is newly funded through GIA in 2025.

  • Housing and Shelter:  Various programs are being funded in 2025 through Homeless Solutions and Homesharing, Inc.  These programs provide permanent housing options for those seeking a shared living situation, shelter programs for those experiencing homelessness, and a “warming center” for Morris County residents to escape the outdoor elements from December through March.

Mental Health

  • A wide range of mental health counseling and case management services are funded through Prime Healthcare (St. Clare’s Behavioral Health Services), NewBridge Services, and the Mental Health Association of Essex and Morris (MHASAB).  The various agencies provide services through in-office visits and off-site settings such as drop-in centers or other community locations. Virtual visits also are available upon request at some agencies.

  • NewBridge Services continues to be funded to provide outreach in the event of a community disaster or traumatic event in Morris County with the goal of connecting individuals to services if follow-up counseling or support is needed.

  • Community and peer support services are prioritized by the MHASAB, which has support lines for both adults and teens.  The line provides peer support for the community and provides individuals with an opportunity to prepare for employment through the support lines.

Youth Services

  • Community programs funded through GIA provide powerful, lifelong skills for youth in Morris County.

  • The Center for Family Services and Deirdre O’Brien Child Advocacy Center provide case management and family support for youth and families in Morris County.  The Center for Family Services is funded to provide the Mending Arts program which gives children the opportunities to heal from difficult situations through art, dance, drama, and culinary art therapy.

  • In addition, New Bridge Services, Inc., has a Jobs PLUS program which provides case management and employment services to assist youth in finding job opportunities throughout the community.

Addiction Services

  • Temporary housing options to support those in recovery are covered in this round of GIA funding.  Included is Freedom House, which supports housing for men in recovery in two different houses in Morris County.  Additionally, ALFRE, Inc. was recommended for funding for Mrs. Wilson’s House which focuses on housing women during their recovery.

  • Treatment, counseling, and education services are available through multiple GIA-funded agencies with a wide range of target populations.  Acenda, EDGE NJ and Prime Healthcare (St. Clare’s Behavioral Health Services) all provide a range of treatment, education, and counseling opportunities to residents in Morris County.

Aging, Disabilities, and Veterans Services

  • Funding was recommended for a wide range of programs that provide services to seniors, adults with disabilities, caregivers, and veterans, such as Dawn Center for Independent Living’s Caregiver Connection and Support program, as well as Child and Family Resources’ Disability Child Care Subsidy, which provides childcare subsidies to assist disabled parents or guardians.

  • Two new funded programs for 2025 include Community Hope’s Emergency Housing Assistance for Veterans and Jewish Family Services’ Friendly Visiting. These programs serve identified prioritized needs related to housing stability and social isolation.

You can view the Resolution adopted by the Board of County Commissioners on Wednesday, Dec. 4, 2024, listing all agencies funded through the GIA 2025 program as a PDF at the following link.

Judy Orlander

###

Photo 1: Morris County’s Veterans Service Office located at 540 West Hanover Ave. in Morris Township.

Photo 2: Judy Orlander, a homebound senior resident who received a companion pet dog through the Morris County Office of Aging, Disabilities and Community Programming’s “Joy for All” robotic companion pet program.

 

[ad_2]

Source link

butterfish-rutherford.jpg

Michelin-Star Chef Leading Omakase Restaurant in Rutherford; More Food News

[ad_1]

Openings

Butterfish, Rutherford

This new sushi restaurant says it flies in the freshest fish daily from Japan and provides a Michelin-quality sushi experience in New Jersey. Led by Michelin-star chef Jeffry Undiarto, Butterfish offers an omakase-style dining experience. Guests can enjoy meticulously crafted multi-course menus. Reservations are available on Resy.

Bao Mama, Cherry Hill

This new restaurant specializes in handmade bao (steamed buns with fillings), dumplings, noodle dishes and teas.

Santucci’s Pizza, Cherry Hill

The Philly-famous pizzeria known for its square pies, made with the sauce above the cheese, has opened in Cherry Hill. It recently launched a location in Brigantine, and is working on expanding to Deptford and Haddonfield. The family-owned restaurant was founded in Philadelphia in 1959.

Burger Heights, Hasbrouck Heights

In addition to burgers, Burger Heights offers Philly cheesesteaks. Everything is made with meat from New Jersey.

Just Salad, Clifton

The NYC-based fast-casual chain has opened in Clifton. It’s Passaic County’s second location and New Jersey’s ninth. The menu offers more than a dozen salads, plus wraps, warm bowls, soups and smoothies. There are seasonal options and “earth-friendly” salads touted as having low-carbon footprints. Guests who purchase a reusable bowl will receive a free topping with each salad order.

Closings

Tesoro Macaron Company

The bakery’s Collingswood location is closing just months after expanding. Its flagship location in Swedesboro will remain open.

No one knows New Jersey like we do. Sign up for one of our free newsletters here. Want a print magazine mailed to you? Purchase an issue from our online store.



[ad_2]

Source link