JLL Capital Markets recently announced it has closed on a $115 million refinancing package for a portfolio of nine Tri-State self-storage facilities owned and operated by Storage Post.
Nuveen Real Estate provided the first mortgage financing for the institutional-quality, Class A assets, which were acquired in 2022 by Storage Post, an industry leading self-storage owner and manager.
Ownership has grown the original 633,364-square-foot portfolio, located in prime regions of New York and New Jersey, to 723,664 rentable square feet across 9,578 units as a supply imbalance within the submarkets has driven strong demand. The New York assets are located in the Bronx, Floral Park, Garden City, Huntington Station and Yorktown Heights. The New Jersey assets are located in Haledon, Elizabeth, Linden and Perth Amboy.
The JLL Capital Markets team that arranged the transaction was led by Senior Managing Director Steven Klein and Director Robert Tonnessen.
“Storage Post’s long history and track record operating self-storage assets in the New York Metro area uniquely positions them to leverage market dynamics, optimize performance and drive growth in this competitive sector,” Klein said. “It was a pleasure to work with Nuveen, further enhancing the potential for success in this venture.”
Whether you have played a course 20+ times a year or looking to play the course for the first time, insights from an insider can help enhance your golf experience. Below is an interview with Brian Rashley who shares some valuable tidbits about the course, memorable holes and must eats and treats at the 19th.
Give Our Readers An Overview of the Golf Course/Property Seaview is home to two world class golf courses, The Bay and The Pines Courses, as well as a 312 Room Hotel and Spa. Stockton Seaview Hotel and Golf Club located in Galloway, NJ sits on 670 beautiful acres of woodland and seaside land.
The Bay Course opened in 1914 was designed by Hugh Wilson and Donald Ross. The 6,300 yard course is not a test of length, rather a test of imagination, accuracy and short game. The Bay Course presents a Scottish links feel, dramatic seaside views, deep pot bunkers, plus small undulating greens. The course is the current host of the ShopRite LPGA Classic presented by ACER as well as 9 holes in the 1942 PGA Championship.
The Pines Course was opened in 1929 designed by William Flynn and Howard Toomey. Unlike the Bay Course, the Pines winds its way through New Jersey Woodlands presenting elevation change and doglegs abound. The course measures just under 6,800 yards, features many large bunkers, and gently sloping large greens. The 16th hole was the site of Sam Snead’s miraculous 60 ft chip-in to win the 1942 PGA Championship; His first major.
If Someone Was Looking To Golf In The Area, Why Should They Play Your Course? When traveling to the Jersey Shore golfers have plenty of options. There are over 20 courses within the region that vary and range in pricing and architectural style. However, none of the courses in this area have to offer what Seaview has. We have two championship style courses in our Bay and Pines that are extremely different in layout albeit being 500 yards apart from each other.
The Bay Course affords golfers the ability to play a true Donald Ross and Hugh Wilson classic. For any golf enthusiast playing a Donald Ross Course is a treat. The Bay is also a links style course which is rare in the North East. The course affords golfers scenic views of Reeds Bay, Brigantine and the Atlantic City Skyline.
The Pines Course is more traditional in style to the North East and present a longer more demanding challenge from tee to green. Where the Bay is open, each hole on the Pines is lined with tall Jersey Pines that make any errant shot an almost guaranteed penalty.
Most importantly when looking for a place to play we feel the story behind the courses are almost as important as the courses them selves. When you play our courses you are walking the same fairways as some of the games greats. From Sam Snead winning the 1942 PGA Championship to Stacy Lewis, Annika Sorenstam and others as the current host site of the ShopRite LPGA Classic presented by Acer, golfers are immersed in a world of legends and history as they make their trek around our two award winning golf courses.
What Tips or Local Knowledge Would You Provide To Help Them Score Better At Your Course? Both Courses put a demand on accuracy but in different ways. The Pines Course requires accuracy off the tee with tree lined fairways on each hole. The Bay Course puts more of a premium on approach shots as the greens are quite small. The one similarity to both courses is the slope of the greens. Most of the greens slope from back to front so for players to manage their way around the course coming up short on a hole is the best miss. Very few greens have bunkers or trouble directly in front of it which allows for a variety of pitch or chip shots to the green.
Recent Awards or What You Are Most Proud About The Course? The accolade we are most proud of is being one of 25 courses in the world to host a major that is open to the public. It is rare that any player can play a course that hosts a major, but Seaview offers that unique opportunity. Players can walk in the footsteps of Hogan and Snead and relive the 1942 PGA Championship. We have also been voted best course in state by golf.com and consistently appear on the best courses you can play list for New Jersey. Our golf shop has been recognized as a Top 100 Golf Shop as well as a multi Platinum Award Winner by The Association of Golf Merchandisers.
What Is The Signature, Most Talked About, or Most Photographed Hole? The signature hole is our 2nd hole on the Bay Course. This 436 yard par 4 plays directly out to Reeds Bay. Off the tee the players will face a very demanding tee shot as OB lines the right side and a deep bunker and fescue complex guards the left side. Once players have successfully reached the fairway the difficult part begins. Most players will be hitting long irons and fairway woods into this green which is one of the flatter surfaces on the course. The difficulty comes from Mother Nature. The final 50 yards of the hole open up and are exposed heavily to the trade winds the generally blow from right to left and into the players the face. The tricky part for golfers is gauging how much wind is actually blowing. From the fairway the players are guarded by tree’s which will trick a player into thinking their is less wind when in fact by the green (when the ball is at its highest part of the flight) the wind is blowing 10 to 20 mph stronger which will most likely put any errant shot in the hazard which surrounds the green behind and to the left and right. However once on the green players will be awarded with a fairly flat putt and a breathtaking view of the Atlantic City Skyline and surrounding shore communities.
What Is Your Favorite Hole? Any Tips to Play It? My favorite hole is the 16th hole on the Pines Course. The hole is a 219 yard Par 3 that plays about a club down hill from the tee. There is a cross bunker that is about 60 yards short of the green but is perceived as being much closer. The right side is guarded with a deep bunker and left side has a large mound which can either kick balls on the green or into some surrounding tree’s. The reason this hole is my favorite is because a major piece of golf history took place on this hole. Before the second nine was built in the mid 50’s the Pines Course was just 9 holes. The 16th hole was then the 8th hole of the old rotation and played as the 17th hole in the 1942 PGA Championship. A young golfer by the name Sam Snead stood on that tee with a one up lead and two holes to play against Jim Turnesa. Snead missed the large green leaving him about a 60 foot chip. Snead calmly stepped up and holed the chip shot giving him a 2 & 1 victory and his first major championship of his young career. Anytime you can step foot on a hole that gave way to one of the most memorable shots in major championship history is special, and something that cannot be said for most courses.
Must Have Dish or Drink after the round at the 19th Hole? One of our signature dishes in the Coastal Grille is our daily grilled cheese special. Our talented culinary team takes a traditional sandwich and creates special and unique offerings that vary from day to day. The most popular is the buffalo chicken grilled cheese.
Who Holds Course Record and What Was Their Score? 62 is our Course record in Tournament Play on the Bay Course. Three ladies hold that record. In 2005, both Laura Davies and Jimin Kang shot 62 and in 2014 Jennifer Johnson shot 62. All rounds were during the ShopRite LPGA Classic.
Back Tee Stats Par: Bay 71 Pines 71 Yardage: Bay 6,366 Pines 6,731 Slope: Bay 70.4 Pines 72.4 Rating: Bay 124 Pines 123
More Information Stockton Seaview Hotel and Golf Club 401 South New York Rd Galloway, NJ, 08205 609-748-7680 www.seaviewgolf.com
POINT PLEASANT — Santa Claus will make an appearance at Point Pleasant Fire Station 75 on Sunday, when families, kids and even pets are welcome to take pictures with the big guy.
Gail Wells, treasurer of the Fire Department Ladies Auxiliary, previously told The Ocean Star, “We just thought it would be a fun, family event for the community to try and bring people together and give them the opportunity to take photos with Santa.”
The event will take place from noon until 3 p.m. at the station on Beaver Dam Road.
This is the second time the Ladies Auxiliary or the fire department held an event like this, and last year, it was met with a very warm and positive reception. With firetrucks in the background adorned with Christmas decorations, Santa Claus sat proudly on his chair. Last year, approximately 15 pets arrived to take pictures, and over a dozen families, with some kids who were just as excited to see the firetrucks as they were Santa. Wells referenced a kid who arrived in a firefighter costume to meet Santa and to see the firetrucks.
While this is a free event, donations are being accepted to benefit the fire department.
Residents are asked to bring their own camera and keep all pets leashed.
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.
Founded by Luke Ferrell in 2022, Ferrell Studios offers exceptional and affordable performing arts education and theatrical productions. They offer a variety of classes and programs, including acting, musical theatre, playwriting, film and television acting, public speaking, and theory and criticism as well as private lessons for those who want to focus on a specific area of study.
At Ferrell Studios, they believe that the arts have the power to inspire, uplift, and transform. They strive to create a positive, supportive environment where students can feel confident and comfortable expressing themselves.
With a mission statement like that, there is a lot to expect from Ferrell Studios so it’s no surprise that their first full length play is something as thought-provoking as “The Shape of Things.”Starring Catherine Hunt, Max Miiller, Breanna Schad, and Steven Franklin, the four-character play explores how far someone is willing to go and how much they change for who (or what) they love.
“The Shape of Things” is presented at the Mignolo Arts Center (272 Lake Avenue) in Metuchen December 13-14 at 8:00pm and December 15 at 1:00pm. Tickets are available for purchase online.
Here you can listen to our interview with director Uchenna Agbu and stars, Catherine Hunt and Max Miller. There’s a lot to break down.
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About the author: Gina Marie Rodriguez is an award-winning screenwriter, director, and actress. Her foray into filmmaking began at a young age as a way to avoid public speaking in school. From there, it grew into a love of telling stories and creating new worlds. Gina Marie boasts a Bronze Remi win from Worldfest Houston, Best Female Filmmaker from the Cosmic Film Festival, and a Best Actress in a Comedy from the Hang Onto Your Shorts Film Festival alongside nominations from the Golden Door International Film Festival, Official Latino Film and Arts Festival and Los Angeles Cinefest among others.
Content provided by Discover Jersey Arts, a project of the ArtPride New Jersey Foundation and New Jersey State Council on the Arts.
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Irving Berlin’s White Christmas
Saturday, December 07, 2024 @ 2:00pm Algonquin Arts Theatre 60 Abe Voorhees, Manasquan, NJ 08736 category: theatre
View event page for full information
Irving Berlin’s White Christmas
Saturday, December 07, 2024 @ 7:30pm Algonquin Arts Theatre 60 Abe Voorhees, Manasquan, NJ 08736 category: theatre
Yesterday at the New Jersey Business & Industry Association’s annual Public Policy Forum held at the APA Hotel Woodbridge, several political pundits shared their thoughts on the fallout from the 2024 presidential election, while also looking ahead to New Jersey’s gubernatorial election in 2025.
In terms of the presidential election results, while Vice President Kamala Harris won New Jersey in 2024, Donald Trump was able to close the gap for Republicans, capturing 45.9% of the vote compared to Harris’ 51.8%. In 2020, President Joe Biden won New Jersey with 57% of the vote to Trump’s 41%.
Notably, four counties saw a voting turnout drop of 10% or more, including Burlington, Essex, Atlantic and Cumberland counties, though this is likely due to fewer mail-in ballots used in 2024.
When exploring why the election shook out the way it did, Briana Vannozzi, anchor, NJ Spotlight News, believes that a growing distrust in elected officials could have played a tangible role.
“In going around and talking to voters, particularly young voters on college campuses, we found there was a lot of anger behind some of the voting,” said Vannozzi. “Voters do not trust their elected officials. The number one question I get asked from folks is: ‘Where does all the money go?’ They don’t believe that their elected officials have their best interests in mind. I think [this lack of trust] is right there with affordability and polarization as a top issue driving voters.”
Daniel Bryan, president of Bryan Strategies Group, added that for him, sometimes the simplest answer is the correct one.
“We had a deeply unpopular incumbent president in Joe Biden, and [Kamala Harris] failed to separate herself from him. I think there were opportunities for her to distinguish herself from the president, but she chose not to, whether it was from loyalty or something else,” Bryan said.
Looking ahead to 2025, Alexandra Wilkes, attorney and Republican strategist, said that she believes the Republicans in New Jersey need to expand their messaging beyond just affordability and the general economy if they want to find success in 2025.
“They can’t run the same property tax campaign every single year,” she said. “While Republicans have often made the case for addressing affordability, it hasn’t been enough to advance them across the finish line. Republicans need to understand that people stay in New Jersey for various non-economic reasons such as staying close to family or for the state’s school systems. They need to speak to those people about the other issues that animate them. I think Donald Trump did that well this year when he spoke about immigration and taking away opportunities for girls in sports, for example. These were issues where Republicans were able to make great advances with people who weren’t necessarily even political.”
In terms of the Democrats’ strategy moving forward in the state, Ginger Gold Schnitzer, director of education and strategic initiatives, Eagleton Institute of Politics at Rutgers University, said that it will be interesting to watch the dynamic between how the Democrats in the Legislature will campaign, and how reflective will that be on how they govern between now and the 2025 election.
“I don’t know that these things are necessarily mutually exclusive,” said Schnitzer. “You can still battle Donald Trump, and you can still do things to help with affordability. There are a lot of issues to choose from.”
For example, she said that Democrats may choose to enact protections for various social issues or look at regulatory issues that don’t necessarily cost a lot of money.
“With the size of the budget last year, Democrats will be very conscious of what spending looks like between now and the election,” she said.
Bryan said he’d like to see the state take big swings at its affordability issue, citing things such as cutting in-state tuition in half at Rutgers, building more affordable housing, and improving daycare and senior care.
“Take big swings so that middle-class families can look at their income and say, ‘Wow this is a great income.’ That doesn’t happen in this state,” he said. “It is so difficult to raise a family in New Jersey. [Our officials] need to talk to young working families about what specifically they are going to do to make their lives better and more affordable.”
Scott Stevens can be considered one of the last of a breed of NHLer that wreaked havoc on other players. During a time when checks were seemingly more vicious than in today’s game, Stevens threw his share of hits that rattled opposing players; some were injured, some were just angry, but there was never a doubt that Stevens played a hard, physical game. But, was that hard, physical game considered “dirty” when it came to his hit on Eric Lindros?
For 22 seasons Stevens played that type of game and helped the New Jersey Devils win three Stanley Cups. Some said he was dirty but others respected Stevens and knew instinctively not to cross the center line with their heads down. That was an invitation to get checked hard, as Lindros found out. It was a hit that changed his career, ended his time with the Philadelphia Flyers and ironically did some good for the sport.
Currently working with the NHL Network, Stevens brought attention to the issue of concussions in the NHL. In fact, he had to retire after he was diagnosed with Post-Concussion Syndrome.
Scott Stevens, the Beginning
Stevens was a defenseman drafted by the Washington Capitals fifth overall in the 1982 NHL Entry Draft. Having grown up in Kitchener, Ontario, Stevens was on the hockey road from an early age. In 1982, he won the Memorial Cup playing for the Kitchener Rangers. A respect for Canadian heritage, the juniors and a passion for the game moved Stevens along to his next natural step, the NHL.
Debuting that fall with the Capitals, the big, sturdy rearguard earned a regular spot with Washington, and so impressed that pundits that he was selected to the NHL’s All-Rookie Team. Through eight seasons, including a selection to the First All-Star Team in 1987-88, Stevens helped turn around the floundering franchise. His fierce confidence on the blue line made him a favourite with both his teammates and the fans.
“Fierce confidence” is one way to describe a player who instilled fear into the hearts of opposing players. But, one hit, in particular, eventually defined Stevens much to his dismay.
The Lindros Hit
Tom Gulitti, staff writer at NHL.com wrote a piece in their top 100 players series about Stevens. There is no question that the defenseman was one of the NHL’s all-time most effective and prolific hitters. But, it was this hit on Eric Lindros in Game 7 of the 2000 Eastern Conference Final that set Stevens apart as a player not to be ignored on the ice.
Of the hit Gilitti wrote:
“Although Scott Stevens always took pride in the physical part of his game, the Hockey Hall of Famer has never been comfortable with his devastating hit on Philadelphia Flyers center Eric Lindros in Game 7 of the 2000 Eastern Conference Final being one of defining moments of his 22-season NHL career. Lindros was knocked out of the game and sat out the entire 2000-01 season after sustaining a concussion on the hit, which was legal.”
Some might have found it difficult to believe that Stevens was capable of remorse but it goes to show that he was not a “goon” or a dirty player. Lindros, on the other hand, seemed resigned about it. In a National Post story on Jan. 16, 2018, by Michael Traikos, Lindros said:
I’m not a referee. But it happened. So, whether he got a five-minute major or not, I’m out and probably not available for the final. So what does that matter to me, whether he got penalized or not? It occurred.
The ESPN announcers said that the hit was legal but the question will linger as long as a puck slides across the frozen pond. Was it a dirty hit? Was Stevens a dirty player? I was with some friends recently who both said, “No” but added that the distinction was close.
Stevens Hits Led Concussion Awareness
Traikos notes that the larger issue, as time has revealed, is that Lindros was playing after his sixth diagnosed concussion and his fourth in five months. Under today’s standards, he likely would not have been allowed on the ice for that Game 7. Traikos, however, asserts that the Stevens hit was dirty: “Heck, it was dirty by any standards. Except the lunging shoulder that Stevens delivered to Lindros’ jaw wasn’t ruled that way at the time.”
“Just 7 minutes and 50 seconds into Game 7 of the Eastern Conference Final, Stevens, the most intimidating defenseman in New Jersey Devils history, caught Lindros in transition coming across center ice in the Flyer offensive zone … with his head down. In real time, measured against today’s standards, Stevens’ hit on Lindros is nothing compared to what seems to occur nightly in the NHL at breakneck speed. The difference is, back then, the Stevens’ hit was deemed legal. Today, it would draw a five-minute major, game misconduct and possible suspension because the principal point of contact from Stevens’ shoulder was the chin and forehead of Lindros.”
So, times have changed and what was considered normal tough play a decade or so ago would now be penalized.
Scott Stevens, former defenseman for the New Jersey Devils, and one of the NHL’s hardest-hitting players (Photo by Jim McIsaac/Getty Images)
Whether or not you hurl profanities at the screen anytime you see the replay the hit on Lindros, or you look at it and acknowledge that hockey is a tough sport, the hit stands out as a defining moment in Stevens’ career. But, in an odd way, it was all for good because it forced the NHL to look more closely at concussions.
Panaccio pointed out, “Medically speaking, this remains the biggest impact Lindros had on hockey — he brought much-needed focus to concussions.” If Lindros had such an impact, it can be argued that it was the Stevens hit that served as a launching pad for the spotlight to shine on Lindros and his concussion history, and subsequently to further that focus onto the league as a whole.
Arturs Irbe suggested during the 2001 Playoffs that his hits were dirty and that he was deliberately trying to kill players or knock them out for the playoffs.
That is quite the accusation. Of course, he had seen Hurricanes teammates Shane Willis and Ron Francis both get pummeled by Stevens during the Eastern Conference Quarterfinals.
Cullen noted Stevens’ reply to those who criticized his play:
“What kind of respect do I get? Just because I’m a physical player, it’s O.K. to come at me and do what you want? Hey, it’s a hockey game. It’s not figure skating. You know what? I can take a hit and I can give a hit. I don’t care who it is. No one gets a free ride out there. I don’t get a free ride, and no one gets a free ride from me.”
Furthermore, Cullen agrees with Stevens’ viewpoint:
He played hard and was very physical, but played the right way and certainly was not a dirty player. Only four elbowing minors in his entire career supports this.
Again, it comes down to perspective at some level, but the play of Stevens was not dirty or intended to kill or injure other players. He played tough hockey when hockey was a much tougher sport that it is today. And, because of his tough play, the NHL is trying to take better care of its players today.
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Stevens and Lindros are both in the Hall of Fame, deservedly. They share a thread in time that is not remembered fondly. Lindros was hurt with another concussion and his career was inextricably altered. Stevens played a few more years but also had to hang up his skates due to concussions. Lindros seems resolved to gloss the hit with an, “It is what it is” response. Stevens says don’t come across the line with your head down.
From the moment the topic turned to hitting and Eric Lindros’ name was mentioned, it was obvious Scott Stevens was uncomfortable. His eyes seemed to glisten and it took a couple of seconds for the New Jersey Devils captain to decide on Sunday whether he wanted to discuss the crushing hit on Lindros.
Canavan also noted: “It’s very hard, it’s tough,” Stevens said Sunday in recalling the play and knowing how bad he felt. “It’s something I don’t like to think about and I try to put it behind me and go on.”
Banners honoring New Jersey Devils Ken Daneyko and Scott Stevens, 2009 (Pacmanghostx via Wikimedia Commons)
For me, this is sums up how I view the hit. Stevens wasn’t gloating but actually felt something for Lindros. Sure, Stevens justified that hit and others by saying players should not come at him with their heads down. But, I don’t think he had a thirst for hurting his opponents or possibly ending their careers. He played a tough game with a tough style and other players knew that. If they chose to come at him with their heads down, then they did so – likely knowingly – at their own risk.
In my opinion, no, Stevens was not a dirty player nor was the hit on Lindros a dirty hit. As Hurricanes television play-by-play voice John Forslund says, “That’s hockey baby!”
NJ natives are among key Trump Administration picks, according to NJ Biz.
The feds approved a $10B Port Authority bus terminal project, according to NorthJersey.com.
Federal and state officials convened over drone sightings in the state, according to NorthJersey.com. The Governor says the drones aren’t a threat to public safety, according to NJ.com.
A court could decide to revive fusion voting in the state, according to NJ Globe.
NJ companies are stockpiling imports to avoid Trump tariffs on China, according to NJ Herald.
NJ port workers’ contract talks are stuck over adding automation, according to NorthJersey.com.
Monmouth County officials say the airport owner restricted their on-site inspection, according to the Asbury Park Press.
Rep. Pallone is calling for refunds for customers affected by Monday’s NJ Transit delays, according to NJ101.5.
In Edison, there have been apologies and retractions all around after the council banned props at meetings. The town says they didn’t ban the American flag, according to NJ.com.
In Barrington, Barrington News apartment residents are meeting over a proposed sale, according to Burlington County Times.
In Franklin, officials are grappling with affordable housing mandates, according to TAPinto.
In Greenwich, a hedged OK was given to a warehouse, according to the Daily Journal.
In Harding, the cell phone tower is up and running, according to NJ Hills.
In Hoboken, the council failed to fill the Ward 6 council vacancy, according to TAPinto.
In Howell, the town is being sued after unanimously shooting down a warehouse complex plan, according to the Asbury Park Press.
In Jersey City, the city touted a decline in homicides, according to NJ Spotlight.
In Newark, amid a building boom, Passaic River flooding poses a problem, according to NJ Monitor.
In Ocean City, the council failed to adopt a room tax ordinance, according to the Press of Atlantic City.
In Paterson, a judge didn’t dismiss an indictment against former Mayor Torres, according to Paterson Press.
In Raritan Borough, the council approved the Raritan mall redevelopment plan and tax abatement, according to TAPinto.
In Roxbury, a senior housing project was approved, according to TAPinto.
In Toms River, schools may sell land to make up for a multi-million dollar budget gap, according to the Asbury Park Press.
In Trenton, an annoyed neighbor led the city to discover that drinking water went untested for a year, according to NJ.com.
Federal, state and local authorities convened Wednesday to discuss an uptick in reported drone activity across North and Central Jersey as residents continue to flood the FBI tip website and take to social media to report the mysterious objects.
Gov. Phil Murphy and acting Education Commissioner Kevin Dehmer announced Wednesday the allocation of more than $42 million in federal funding to expand and improve preschool facilities in 22 school districts across New Jersey. The funding marks a major step in the administration’s push for universal access to high-quality preschool.
When deciding on the best towns to put down roots, choosing one that offers eco-friendly living has become a growing priority for many people. And according to a recent report, three of the nation’s most desired sustainable suburbs are located right here in the Garden State.
Assembly Speaker Craig Coughlin will represent New Jersey in the bipartisan Hunt-Kean Leadership Fellows program, which brings leaders from across the U.S. together to explore ideas and develop education agendas. The program was named for former North Carolina Gov. James Hunt and former New Jersey Gov. Thomas H. Kean, Democrat and Republican, respectively, who were known as education governors during their time in office.
A new pilot program is paving the way to make sure mothers are heard and seen before, during and after birth. Christine Ivery is the program officer for New Jersey Health Care Quality Institute that partnered on the project with two hospitals in Mercer County, Capital Health Medical Center in Hopewell and Penn Medicine Princeton Medical Center in Plainsboro.
As we close out 2024 in the Garden State, 2025’s gubernatorial field is rapidly expanding. Within the past month, two candidates whose announcements have been widely anticipated, have declared their intent to compete in June’s Democratic primary: Congressman Josh Gottheimer (Congressional District 5) and Congresswoman Mikie Sherrill (Congressional District 11). In the crowded Democratic field, Gottheimer and Sherrill join Newark Mayor Ras Baraka, Jersey City Governor Steven Fulop, Former Senate President Steve Sweeney, and Former Montclair Mayor Sean Spiller.
It went from a bit of a joke earlier this week when I started talking about the drone sightings. The information started coming in a few weeks ago when my friend and Florham Park, NJ Mayor Mark Taylor texted me about strange drones hovering over his backyard. The noise, the lights, and the size of the crafts were certainly concerning. We didn’t think too much of this issue honestly, I even joked yesterday about aliens, Disney, and a not-100% joking reference to the Chinese government.
A literary lion is scheduled to grace the halls of Warren County Community College on Thursday, Dec. 5. Billy Collins, an American poet, will read from his latest published work ‘Water, Water: Poems” as a guest of the college’s Visiting Author Series on Thursday evening. The reading will happen at 6 p.m. in room E206. it will be followed by a Q&A.
Wegovy and similar injectable weight-loss drugs called GLP-1s can cost more than $1,000 a month, but New Jersey is not one of a dozen states where people on Medicaid can get it covered for weight control. Jenna Tagliabue, an active dog walker in Hasbrouck Heights, said she can afford the popular drug Wegovy only because she’s covered by her parent’s health insurance. Her doctor prescribed it after Jenna’s blood pressure kept rising.
An evolution of terminology has introduced unhoused as substitution for homeless. No matter which word receives employment, adequate shelter and food supply remain key issues in Trenton where thousands face serious life challenges. Homelessness in New Jersey increased by 17% between 2022 and 2023, according to a 2023 summary of the state’s annual count of unhoused people.
Eleven Veterans Presented With Morris County Distinguished Service Medals
Veterans, dignitaries, family members, and friends gathered last night at Morris County’s Annual Veterans Day Observance Ceremony, where the Board of County Commissioners presented Morris County Distinguished Military Service Medals to 11 local heroes, who were also honored by state and federal officials.
Retired Admiral James “Frank” Caldwell Jr., former director of the U.S. Naval Nuclear Propulsion Program, was among those in attendance, traveling from Annapolis, MD, to support the veterans at the event that took place on the fifth floor of the county’s Administration and Records Building in Morristown.
Commissioner Director Christine Myers led the ceremony alongside Deputy Director Stephen Shaw and Commissioners Thomas Mastrangelo, Tayfun Selen, Deborah Smith, and John Krickus, a U.S. Marine Corps veteran.State Sen. Anthony Bucco and Assemblywoman Aura Dunn (Morris-25) presented Joint Senate-Assembly Resolutions, while U.S. Rep. Tom Kean and Willy Tolba, representing U.S. Rep. Mikie Sherrill, delivered Certificates of Honor to each veteran or their family member.
“The County Commissioners have traditionally used the occasion of our Veterans Day Observance to recognize resident veterans by presenting them with the Morris County Distinguished Military Service Medal,” said Director Myers. “These honors are presented to veterans who served honorably and who have helped to make our nation and Morris County a better place to live.”
Before the ceremony started, Director Myers acknowledged the recent passing of three notable New Jersey figures who leave behind lasting legacies: Deacon Ray Chimileski, founder of Operation Chillout to aid homeless veterans; former Assembly Speaker Chuck Haytaian, an advocate for education on genocide and human rights; and Vincent “George” McMann Jr., a former Municipal Court judge and Tank Platoon Leader with the 6th Armored Cavalry Regiment. Judge McMann’s daughter, Superior Court Judge Marcy McMann, attended the ceremony.
The Morris County Distinguished Military Service Medal program began in 1999 to commemorate World War II veterans on the 55th anniversary of D-Day and the liberation of France. Since then, the county has expanded the medals to honor veterans of the Vietnam and Korean wars, as well as other military conflicts. In 2022, Morris County introduced medals for Iraq and Afghanistan veterans.
Director Myers invited U.S. Rep. Kean to deliver opening remarks at the ceremony, where he highlighted his commitment to supporting local veterans.
“I am proud to have worked on a bipartisan basis with my colleague Congresswoman Mikie Sherrill to bring a VA Vet Center Community Access Point (CAP) right here to Morris County,” said Kean. “Vet Centers provide a range of lifesaving services for veterans and their families. Our veterans need to know that when they come home, quality care is close to home.”
The federal Veteran Center CAP the congressman was referring to opened in May at the Morris County Veterans Service Office (VSO) located at 540 West Hanover Avenue in Morris Township. Morris County volunteered to share and improve its county VSO space to host the CAP and VA counselors from the Bloomfield Vet Center are available once a week to provide services. Veterans interested in these services should call 973-748-0980 to schedule an appointment.
Among the veterans honored was retired U.S. Navy Captain Charles E. Fegley of Randolph Township, who served from 1957 to 1981 and earned distinguished honors, including the Bronze Star Medal with a “V” Device and the Legion of Merit. Captain Fegley oversaw nuclear power operations, notably leading the PM-3A Nuclear Power Plant at McMurdo Station in Antarctica, where he later helped establish a commemorative monument. His contributions are recognized with a bronze plaque on Observation Hill and the naming of Fegley Glacier.
The ceremony also included tributes to the late Brigadier General Sean Patrick Mulholland, a Montville resident and U.S. Army veteran of the War on Terrorism, who served from 1985 to 2015 and received the Bronze Star Medal, among other accolades. Mulholland passed away in 2018.
Deputy Director Shaw read a letter from retired U.S. Army Lieutenant Colonel Glen G. Roussos, who served alongside Mulholland in the 7th Special Forces Group. Roussos described Mulholland as “a warrior who made a difference wherever he went.” Senator Bucco read a letter from General Bryan P. Fenton honoring Mulholland’s legacy and presented a framed copy of the letter to Mulholland’s sister, Sheila.
Also in attendance at the ceremony were Prosecutor Robert Carroll, Deputy Clerk Anna McMahon, County College of Morris (CCM) President Tony Iacono, CCM Trustee James Loveys, Morris Plains Mayor Jason Karr and Chief Warrant Officer Jack Ambrose of the Morris County Sheriff’s Office.
In recognition of Veterans Day coming up, the Morris County Office of Planning & Preservation has updated the Morris County Veterans Compendium Project, an ongoing initiative to document every Morris County soldier’s service dating back to the American Revolution. Learn more about these veterans and their sacrifices through the Official Website of Morris County, NJ.
Photo 1: Commissioner Deputy Director Stephen Shaw presents the Morris County Distinguished Service Medal to retired U.S. Navy Captain Charles E. Fegley of Randolph Township.
Photo 2: Commissioner Thomas Mastrangelo and Derek Oates, U.S. Army Veteran of Operation Iraqi Freedom.
Ahead of his return to the White House in January, President-elect Donald Trump has begun announcing the key figures he wants to fill Cabinet positions and other major roles in his upcoming administration. The list of nominees features some of Trump’s closest allies on Capitol Hill, as well as prominent figures from his 2024 campaign.
In addition to well-known politicians like Florida Sen. Marco Rubio and South Dakota Gov. Kristi Noem, and high-profile entrepreneurs such as Elon Musk and Vivek Ramaswamy, several notable New Jersey natives are among Trump’s selections.
Dr. Mehmet Oz – Administrator for the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services
Dr. Mehmet Oz, a longtime Bergen County resident and TV personality, has been selected as the Administrator for the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS), an agency within the Department of Health & Human Services. Oz became a household name in the early 2000s through his frequent appearances on The Oprah Winfrey Show, later hosting his own daytime talk show.
While Oz has faced criticism for promoting unproven medical products and claims, such as endorsing the anti-malaria drug hydroxychloroquine for COVID-19 treatment, Trump expressed confidence in his qualifications to address America’s healthcare challenges. Oz is set to work closely with Robert F. Kennedy Jr., nominated to lead the Department of Health & Human Services. The CMS position requires Senate confirmation.
Charles Kushner – U.S. Ambassador to France
Charles Kushner, founder of Kushner Cos., a major real estate firm with a significant presence in New Jersey, has been tapped to serve as U.S. Ambassador to France. Kushner, who is the father of Trump’s son-in-law Jared Kushner, is a prominent businessman with ties to the Trump family. Trump praised him as a “tremendous business leader, philanthropist, and dealmaker,” and highlighted his son’s previous work in the White House, particularly on initiatives like Operation Warp Speed and the Abraham Accords.
However, Kushner’s past includes a conviction for tax evasion and illegal campaign donations, which led to a prison sentence. He was pardoned by Trump in 2020. Like all ambassadorial nominees, Kushner’s appointment will require Senate confirmation.
Susie Wiles – White House Chief of Staff
Susie Wiles, a political strategist who played a key role in Trump’s past campaigns, has been named the first female White House Chief of Staff. Wiles, who grew up in Saddle River, New Jersey, has an extensive career in politics, having worked on Ronald Reagan’s presidential campaign and with numerous Republican candidates, including Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis. She will not require Senate confirmation to take on this role, and Trump has expressed admiration for her leadership, calling her “tough, smart, innovative, and universally admired.”
Jared Isaacman – NASA Administrator
Jared Isaacman, a billionaire entrepreneur from Central Jersey, has been selected to lead NASA. Isaacman, the founder and CEO of Shift4 Payments, will take charge of NASA’s mission of space exploration, drawing from his extensive leadership background and experience as an astronaut. Although he has no direct experience at NASA, Isaacman’s ties to SpaceX CEO Elon Musk and his own spaceflights with SpaceX make him a unique choice for the role. Isaacman’s appointment will require Senate confirmation.
Frank Bisignano – Social Security Administration Commissioner
Frank Bisignano, the CEO of Fiserv Inc., has been chosen to head the Social Security Administration. Bisignano, who has an extensive background in financial services, including leadership roles at JP Morgan Chase and Citigroup, is credited with transforming large corporations. Fiserv, under his leadership, has expanded its presence in New Jersey, establishing a financial technology hub in Berkeley Heights. His appointment also requires Senate confirmation.
Trump’s picks reflect a combination of business acumen, political experience, and personal connections, with several New Jerseyans playing a key role in the upcoming administration. As the appointments move forward, Senate confirmation will be required for most positions, ensuring further scrutiny and debate before the new administration takes shape.
