02-10-2025-Morris-County-Veterans-Services-Office-Spotlight-on-Services-Event-3-780x470

Morris County Hosts Veterans Services Event to Expand Outreach

Nearly 100 Attendees Learn About Resources and Support for Local Veterans

Nearly 100 attendees gathered at the Morris County Veterans Services Office (VSO) last week for an information session on the extensive support available to local veterans.

The event, hosted by the Morris County Board of County Commissioners, featured representatives from federal, state and county offices, along with veteran service providers offering guidance on available resources. Many guests wore red in observance of R.E.D. (Remember Everyone Deployed) Shirt Friday, a tradition honoring deployed service members.

“We hosted an outreach session for veterans at the local VFW in my hometown of Montville last fall, which was well received by the vets who attended. At my suggestion, the Board of County Commissioners unanimously agreed to expand these outreach efforts,” said Commissioner Thomas Mastrangelo. “We have strengthened our VSO with expanded staff and funding, and we will continue to grow these critical programs.”

Commissioners Mastrangelo and John Krickus welcomed attendees before introducing Christine Hellyer, director of Aging, Disabilities and Community Programming, and Jessica Tomalo, program coordinator for the VSO, who led an informative presentation.

Missed the Event? View the Video Recording Available Online

View Photos from the Event

“Morris County doesn’t recognize our veterans only on Memorial Day and Veterans Day — we honor them every day,” said Commissioner Krickus, a U.S. Marine Corps veteran. “We continue to expand the Veterans Services Office to meet growing needs, including doubling its space in 2023, hiring a fourth Veterans Services Officer and establishing a federal Veteran Center Community Access Point in Morristown in 2024.”

He also noted that the county maintains an online archive of local veterans’ history, which preserves stories of service from the Revolutionary War to modern conflicts. Additionally, he highlighted County College of Morris’ (CCM) Veterans Resource Center and manufacturing training programs available at no cost for veterans and their families, supported by a $5 million U.S. Department of Defense grant.

Marie Fragomeni, outreach coordinator for the County Clerk’s Office, spoke about services available to veterans through County Clerk Ann Grossi’s office, including the “Operation Give Back” program, which offers discounts to veterans and Gold Star family members who present their Morris County ID Card at participating local businesses.

Also present to provide updates at the event were Nicholas Henry, field representative for U.S. Rep. Tom Kean Jr.; Willy Tolba, constituent services representative for U.S. Rep. Mikie Sherrill; Alex McConnell, legislative aide to State Sen. Anthony Bucco; Jon Hinker, senior vice commander of the New Jersey VFW; and Shenandoah Ellis-Ullmer, veterans and military services coordinator at CCM.

Service providers in attendance included the Mental Health Association of Essex and Morris, Inc. (MHA) and Atlantic Behavioral Health’s True North Program for Veterans.U.S. Navy Veteran Tom Mazzaccaro.

Hellyer shared an update on the 2025 human services veterans grants, which fund critical services for Morris County veterans and their families. The grants support the MHA’s mental health, substance abuse, care management and educational programs; Interfaith Food Pantry’s distribution of food and household essentials to food-insecure families; and Legal Services of Northwest New Jersey’s legal assistance and counseling for veterans. This year, Community Hope will also receive funding for emergency housing services.

She also highlighted other essential county services, including Morris Area Paratransit System (MAPS), a curb-to-curb shared ride service for seniors, individuals with disabilities and veterans, as well as the Morris County Nutrition Project, which provides home-delivered meals to seniors.

Following presentations, an engaging Q&A session gave attendees the opportunity to ask questions and provide input. Attendees also had access to a resource table with informational materials, and light refreshments and snacks were offered.

For more information on veteran resources, visit morriscountynj.gov/veterans.

Jessica Tomalo, Program Coordinator of the Morris County Veterans Services Office.

###

Photo 1: Commissioner Thomas Mastrangelo.

Photo 2: (l-r) Commissioner Thomas Mastrangelo and Commissioner John Krickus.

Photo 3: (center) U.S. Navy Veteran Tom Mazzaccaro.

Photo 4: Jessica Tomalo, Program Coordinator of the Morris County Veterans Services Office.

 

Document

Senate Select Committee’s Statement on Utility Hearing

Senator Paul Sarlo, Chair of the Senate Select Committee, Senate Majority Leader M. Teresa Ruiz and other members of the Committee, issued the following joint statement after today’s hearing on utility rate increases:

“As we work to understand why energy costs have spiked, today’s hearing makes one thing clear: among the leading causes are PJM’s broken capacity auction system and its failure to bring new energy supplies online. Rather than taking responsibility, PJM continues to deflect blame while moving forward with yet another auction that could again send prices soaring. Its efforts to integrate new energy sources have fallen drastically short. The ongoing backlog in PJM’s interconnection queue is directly depriving New Jersey of the new energy it needs and denying residents the relief they deserve.

“At the same time, New Jersey’s clean energy future has been actively sabotaged. Trump-era policies and Republican obstruction have derailed transformative energy projects, including offshore wind. These cancellations erased the opportunity to deliver over 5,000 megawatts of clean power, enough to supply more than two million homes, and halted thousands of good-paying jobs tied to projects like the Wind Port and Paulsboro Marine Terminal. The economic ripple effects are massive. The Wind Port alone was expected to generate over 20,000 jobs and bring in $500 million annually in state revenue. With continued uncertainty, even next-generation projects like the new hydrogen hub are now in jeopardy.

“The numbers tell the story. PJM currently has around 1,600 energy projects stuck in its interconnection queue, 79 of them in New Jersey alone. A staggering 98 percent of these are clean energy resources. Collectively, they represent 250,000 megawatts of potential capacity. If even a fraction of these had been connected in a timely manner, supply would have more than doubled the volume that cleared the last capacity auction, helping to keep prices within historical norms. Estimates suggest that if just 30 percent of the queued projects had been operational, the last auction could have been 63 percent cheaper.

“This is not simply a temporary price spike. It is the direct result of systemic failure and deliberate neglect. Families are paying the price for years of missed opportunities and grid mismanagement. The one-two punch of PJM’s dysfunction and Republican obstruction has put New Jersey households in an untenable position.

“To build a reliable, affordable energy future, PJM must overhaul its markets, federal leaders must reverse harmful policy decisions, and Republican officials must stop standing in the way and start offering solutions. New Jersey deserves better and the time for action is now.”

The post Senate Select Committee’s Statement on Utility Hearing appeared first on Insider NJ.

foley-1024x727

Want to Win? Then Democrats Must Go After Social Media

By SEAN KEAGAN FOLEY

For too long, Democrats have allowed social media platforms to operate with impunity, despite mounting evidence that they are fueling division, misinformation, and hate. The data is clear: these platforms, driven by profit and engagement metrics, reward outrage, amplify lies, and erode trust in democratic institutions. We can no longer afford to treat them as neutral platforms — they are shaping our politics, our culture, and our mental health. And not for the better.

It’s time for Democrats to go on the offensive.

Let’s be honest: Facebook, X (formerly Twitter), TikTok, and YouTube have become toxic engines of polarization. Their algorithms are designed to push people toward extremes because outrage and fear keep users scrolling — and advertisers paying. They amplify conspiracy theories, help authoritarians grow their reach, and make it nearly impossible to build a shared reality.

While Republicans have often used these platforms to spread lies and stoke resentment, Democrats have largely responded with timid calls for voluntary reforms or vague pledges to “study the issue.” That’s not good enough.

We need action.

I have been discussing the issues of social media since 2016, and what I find is that all parents — Republicans, Democrats, and Independents — are angry and tired. They see the harm every day. The anxiety in their kids. The constant division. The lies and rage consuming their communities. And they’re asking the same thing I am: What are you waiting for? Do something!

So let me give you some guidance. First, Democrats should demand real transparency. What do the algorithms prioritize? How do they handle misinformation? What data is collected on users, including minors? These companies know their systems are harmful — internal whistleblowers have said as much. Yet without public oversight, there’s no accountability.

Second, it’s time to regulate the business model itself. Social media thrives on surveillance capitalism; I.e. creepily stalking people and their children: the more data they collect, the more precisely they can manipulate users and sell their attention. We need strong privacy laws that limit how much data can be collected, stored, and sold — especially when it comes to children. We can do this here in New Jersey!

Third, Democrats should push for algorithmic accountability. This isn’t about free speech — it’s about the systems behind the speech. No one is asking to censor ideas or ban opinions. What we need is oversight of the algorithms that deliberately amplify the most extreme, misleading, and divisive content because it keeps people angry, scared, and glued to their screens. These algorithms are not neutral! They are engineered for engagement, not truth or well-being. It’s time to treat them like the powerful, manipulative forces they are — and regulate them accordingly.

Finally, we must acknowledge the mental health crisis these platforms are fueling. Rates of anxiety, depression, and suicide are skyrocketing, especially among young people. If tobacco companies were causing this kind of harm, we’d be marching in the streets. Social media is no different — and the sooner we treat it like the public health threat it is, the better.

This isn’t about censorship. It’s about responsibility. And if Democrats don’t lead on this issue, we’re leaving our democracy — and our children — at the mercy of an unregulated, unaccountable digital Wild West.

It’s time to draw a line.

Go after social media! Campaign against Tech Bundy Billionaires  such as Musk and Zuckerberg. For the truth. For children’s mental health For democracy. For the future.

Sean Keagan Foley

Garwood Councilman

2015 Eagleton Institute of Politics Fellow 

Social Worker & Psychotherapist 

 

The post Want to Win? Then Democrats Must Go After Social Media appeared first on Insider NJ.

Alex-Iafallo-Jets-1200x800

Iafallo’s Pair of Goals Power Jets to 4-0 Shutout Over Devils

The Winnipeg Jets shut out the New Jersey Devils 4-0 at Canada Life Centre on Friday evening, putting on a dominant performance. Alex Iafallo was the star of the game, netting two goals and leading the charge for the Jets. David Gustafsson and Mark Scheifele also contributed to the victory with one goal each, securing a comprehensive win for the home team.

Iafallo opened the scoring early, showing off his quick hands and positioning to find the back of the net. His second goal came later in the game, helping to solidify the Jets’ commanding lead. Gustafsson’s goal added to the excitement, further frustrating the Devils’ defense and goaltending. Scheifele, known for his scoring ability, capped off the performance with a goal of his own, ensuring the Jets kept their foot on the gas.

In addition to the offensive showcase, the Jets’ defense was rock-solid, with Connor Hellebuyck earning the shutout in net. Hellebuyck made several key saves to preserve the 4-0 victory, keeping the Devils at bay throughout the game. It was a complete team effort from the Jets, who were dominant in both ends of the ice.

The win marked an important statement game for the Jets, as they continue to build momentum in the regular season. With Iafallo’s offensive explosion and strong defensive play, Winnipeg showed why they are a formidable force in the league.

c4ded68af9c73e6385098e891c5d43d7

Point Pleasant man charged with attempted murder, strangulation and weapon offenses

POINT PLEASANT — A Point Pleasant man has been indicted on charges of attempted murder, among other charges, for an incident that occurred in the borough  in August 2022.

Ocean County Prosecutor Bradley D. Billhimer announced that on March 27, Juan Santiago-Rojas, 31, of Point Pleasant, was indicted by a Grand Jury sitting in Ocean County on charges of attempted murder, strangulation, possession of a weapon for an unlawful purpose and unlawful possession of a weapon, all in connection with an incident that occurred in Point Pleasant on Aug. 22, 2022.

Officers from the Point Pleasant Borough Police Department responded to a residence for a report of an unconscious female on Aug. 22, 2022.

Responding officers found the unconscious female victim with serious injuries to her head and neck area. The victim was thereafter transported to Hackensack Meridian Ocean Medical Center in Brick Township. Due to the nature and extent of her injuries, the victim was transferred to Jersey Shore University Medical Center in Neptune, where she was treated and eventually released.

An investigation conducted by the Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office Special Victims Unit, Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office Major Crime Unit, Point Pleasant Borough Police Department and Ocean County Sheriff’s Office Crime Scene Investigation Unit, revealed that the victim had been assaulted by Santiago-Rojas on that date.

Santiago-Rojas was initially charged with aggravated assault on Aug. 23, 2022, and a warrant was issued for his arrest. A fugitive from justice, Santiago-Rojas’ name was entered in the National Crime Information Center database.

Sixteen months later, on Dec. 8, 2023, Santiago-Rojas was taken into custody by law enforcement authorities in Wilmington, North Carolina.

On Jan. 12, 2024, Santiago-Rojas was extradited to New Jersey, and has been lodged in the Ocean County Jail since that date.

According to the press release, further investigation by the Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office Special Victims Unit indicated that Santiago-Rojas assaulted the victim and strangled her to the point of unconsciousness on Aug. 22, 2022. As a consequence, Santiago-Rojas was additionally charged with attempted murder on Jan. 22, 2024. Santiago-Rojas was served with the new charge by way of complaint-warrant at the Ocean County Jail.

For more on this story, read the next edition of 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.

img-03-26-2025-womens-history-month-1

Morris County Celebrates Women’s History Month

Board-Adopted Proclamation & Sixth Annual “Seeds of Change Award” Presented

The Morris County Board of County Commissioners celebrated Women’s History Month today during a public meeting in Morristown, where an official proclamation and the 2025 “Seeds of Change Award” were presented to influential women in the community.

Commissioner Director Tayfun Selen formally awarded a framed proclamation declaring March 2025 Women’s History Month to Donna Boyce, chairwoman of the Advisory Committee on Women. The board adopted the proclamation at its March 12 meeting.

“I am honored to present a proclamation for Women’s History Month and thank all the women in Morris County who commit themselves to volunteerism and service, while doing all the other things women do to make the world a better place. In Morris County, women are making a difference every day of the year — not just one month out of the year,” said Director Selen.

View More Photos from the Event

Donna Boyce presented the Morris County “2025 Seeds of Change Award” to Ginger Vukas of Randolph Township, in recognition of her volunteer work supporting veterans, scouting and other community initiatives.

A member of Soldiers’ Angels since 2003 — a nonprofit that provides aid and resources to the military, veterans and their families — Vukas has sent hundreds of care packages and letters to deployed soldiers, primarily women. She has served as a Scouting America merit badge counselor since 2011, mentoring young men and women pursuing the Eagle Scout rank, and held leadership roles in the former Twins and Triplet Mothers of Morris County.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, she organized an online advocacy group focused on reopening long-term care facilities to visitors. The group contributed to the reopening of these facilities and continues to raise awareness about the impact of health issues on long-term care facilities.

Vukas currently serves on the Randolph Township Economic Development Committee, where she leads the Veterans’ Discount Program and assists with local business openings, including several women-owned businesses in 2024. Her volunteer efforts include fundraising and advocacy for Alzheimer’s NJ, Interfaith Food Pantry, and Relay for Life.

The ceremony was attended by Amy Archer, Morris County Division Director of Community and Behavioral Health Services, Randolph Mayor Joe Hathaway, Deputy Mayor Mark Forstenhausler, Councilmembers Christine Carey, Lou Nisivoccia, and Denise Thornton, along with John Ragan, chairman of the Randolph Township Economic Development Committee, and members of Human Services Advisory Council (HSAC) and the Advisory Committee on Women.

The “Seeds of Change Award” honors the memory of the late state Sen. Leanna Brown, recognizing women who support and uplift other women through leadership and volunteerism. This was the sixth “Seeds of Change Award” to be issued since 2018.

###

Photo 1: A group shot of attendees. Commissioner Director Tayfun Selen is standing in the middle beside Ginger Vukas holding the framed Resolution of Honor. 

trilogy-Mar28

Trilogy Repertory Theater presents “Anything Goes”

(BASKING RIDGE, NJ) — Trilogy Repertory Theater presents Anything Goes from March 29-April 6, 2025 at The Sieminski Theater. A toe-tapping musical classic with music and lyrics by Cole Porter, this voyage of the S.S. American between New York and England is filled with a madcap group of passengers, witty repartee, filled with singing and dancing.

discovering-new-jerseys-theatrical-treasures.jpg

Discovering New Jersey’s Theatrical Treasures

New Jersey, often overshadowed by its bustling neighbor New York City, boasts a vibrant and diverse theatre scene that deserves a spotlight of its own. From classic Shakespearean performances to contemporary musicals, the Garden State is home to a plethora of venues that cater to all tastes. In this article, we will delve into some of New Jersey’s most renowned theatres, exploring their unique offerings and what makes them special.

The Union County Performing Arts Center (UCPAC)

Located in Rahway, the Union County Performing Arts Center (UCPAC) is a historic venue that has been entertaining audiences since the 1920s. Originally built as a movie palace, UCPAC has transformed into a cultural hub that hosts a variety of performances including concerts, dance recitals, and theatrical productions. The intimate setting allows for a close connection between performers and audience members, making every show a memorable experience.

A Rich History

The UCPAC has undergone significant renovations over the years while maintaining its original charm. The theatre’s architecture is a splendid example of the Beaux-Arts style, with ornate details that evoke a sense of nostalgia. Regular programming features local artists as well as touring companies, ensuring that there’s always something exciting to see.

State Theatre New Jersey

Located in New Brunswick, the State Theatre New Jersey is a major player in the state’s artistic landscape. This venue is known for its stunning interior, featuring a grand lobby and a beautifully restored auditorium that seats over 1,800 patrons. The State Theatre hosts a wide range of performances, from Broadway shows to concerts and film screenings.

Community Engagement

One of the standout features of the State Theatre is its commitment to community engagement. The theatre offers educational programs and outreach initiatives aimed at inspiring the next generation of artists and audience members. Whether you are a seasoned theatre-goer or a newcomer, the State Theatre provides opportunities for everyone to get involved.

Count Basie Center for the Arts

In the heart of Red Bank lies the Count Basie Center for the Arts, named after the legendary jazz musician who hailed from New Jersey. This venue is not only a hub for performing arts but also a center for cultural enrichment in the community. The Basie Center hosts a variety of performances including concerts, comedy shows, and theatrical productions.

A Diverse Programming Line-Up

With its state-of-the-art facilities, the Count Basie Center is known for attracting top-tier talent. From Broadway tours to intimate acoustic performances, the center caters to a wide audience. Additionally, the Basie Center’s educational programs allow aspiring performers to hone their craft through workshops and classes.

Paper Mill Playhouse

Renowned as one of the top regional theatres in the country, the Paper Mill Playhouse in Millburn is famous for its high-quality productions and commitment to new works. The theatre has a legacy of producing Broadway-bound shows and has garnered numerous awards, including Tony Awards for Outstanding Regional Theatre.

Innovative Productions

The Paper Mill Playhouse is known for its innovative approach to theatre, often presenting reimagined classics alongside original works. The theatre’s dedication to nurturing new talent is evident in its extensive apprenticeship and internship programs, providing invaluable experience for young artists.

McCarter Theatre Center

Situated in Princeton, the McCarter Theatre Center is a multi-venue complex that hosts a wide array of performances, including theatre, music, and dance. With its commitment to artistic excellence, McCarter has established itself as a significant player in the regional arts scene.

A Hub for Creativity

The McCarter Theatre Center not only presents a diverse lineup of productions but also serves as a space for artists to develop new works. The theatre frequently collaborates with playwrights and performers, fostering a creative environment that encourages innovation and exploration.

New Jersey Performing Arts Center (NJPAC)

The New Jersey Performing Arts Center, located in Newark, is one of the largest performing arts centers in the state. NJPAC is a premier venue for concerts, dance, and theatre, playing host to a variety of national and international artists. With a stunning modern design and world-class acoustics, NJPAC is a must-visit destination for any arts enthusiast.

Community and Education

NJPAC is dedicated to serving the community through its extensive educational programs and outreach initiatives. The center provides workshops, masterclasses, and performances designed to engage and inspire individuals of all ages. This commitment to accessibility ensures that the arts remain an integral part of New Jersey’s cultural fabric.

The Shakespeare Theatre of New Jersey

For lovers of classic literature, the Shakespeare Theatre of New Jersey, located in Madison, offers a unique opportunity to experience the Bard’s works in a dedicated setting. This theatre specializes in Shakespearean productions, but also presents contemporary works that resonate with modern audiences.

Enhancing the Classic Experience

The Shakespeare Theatre prides itself on its commitment to authenticity and artistic integrity. Each production is carefully crafted to honor the original texts while making them accessible to contemporary viewers. The theatre also offers educational programs that delve into Shakespeare’s life and works, enhancing the audience’s appreciation of his genius.

Surflight Theatre

Located in Beach Haven, the Surflight Theatre is known for its charming seaside location and family-friendly programming. This theatre offers a mix of musicals, comedies, and children’s productions, making it a popular destination for families during the summer months.

Summer Stock Tradition

The Surflight Theatre has a rich tradition of summer stock theatre, providing opportunities for both seasoned performers and emerging talents. Each season brings a fresh lineup of shows, often featuring beloved classics and contemporary favorites. The relaxed atmosphere of the theatre enhances the overall experience, making it a delightful outing for all.

The Strand Theater

The Strand Theater in Lakewood is a beautifully restored venue that hosts a variety of events, including concerts, plays, and community events. With its classic architecture and modern amenities, the Strand provides a unique setting for both performers and audiences.

A Community Gem

The Strand Theater has a strong connection to the local community, often featuring performances by local artists and organizations. This commitment to community engagement makes it a beloved destination for those seeking quality entertainment in a welcoming environment.

The Basie Center’s Hackensack Meridian Health Theatre

This venue, part of the Count Basie Center for the Arts, provides a more intimate setting for performances, allowing audiences to experience the artistry up close. The Hackensack Meridian Health Theatre hosts a diverse range of performances, from music concerts to theatrical productions.

An Intimate Experience

With its smaller capacity, the Hackensack Meridian Health Theatre creates an atmosphere where every seat feels like the best in the house. This unique experience enhances the connection between the audience and the performers, making each show a personal journey.

Conclusion

New Jersey’s theatre scene is a treasure trove of artistic expression, offering a wide variety of performances that cater to all interests. From the historic charm of the UCPAC to the modern elegance of NJPAC, each venue tells its own story and contributes to the rich cultural tapestry of the state. Whether you’re a lifelong theatre lover or a curious newcomer, exploring these venues will undoubtedly lead to unforgettable experiences and a deeper appreciation for the arts.

gootstev

‘The Great Garden State Money Grab’: Your Tax Dollars at Work!

Listen, people, what’s happening in New Jersey right now is absolutely BANANAS! We’ve got a gubernatorial election that’s basically turned into a carnival game where politicians are walking around with giant butterfly nets trying to catch as much public funding as they possibly can!

The New Jersey Election Law Enforcement Commission just handed out $2.6 MILLION in matching funds to SEVEN candidates. SEVEN! That’s more candidates than New Jersey has uncontaminated water sources!

Let me break this down for you: Jack Ciattarelli, the leading Republican guy, just hit the MAXIMUM amount of public matching funds at $5.5 MILLION! He’s like that kid at the arcade who’s somehow mastered the claw machine and is walking out with ALL the stuffed animals!

Then we’ve got Newark Mayor Ras Baraka who just got his FIRST payment of $841,913. Almost a MILLION dollars! For comparison, that’s approximately what the New York Jets spend on counseling  therapy for their fans each season!

And don’t get me started on Steve Fulop and Steve Sweeney. TWO STEVES! Both hovering around $4 MILLION in public funds! I haven’t seen this many Steves getting rich since Steve Jobs invented a phone that breaks every time Apple releases a new one!

Then there’s Josh Gottheimer and Mikie Sherrill —-two members of Congress—-who each got around half a million dollars THIS WEEK ALONE! They’re sitting at $4.6 MILLION and $4.2 MILLION total! That’s not campaign funding—that’s a small nation’s GDP!

Meanwhile, rightwing radio host Bill Spadea hasn’t received any matching funds yet. He’s probably standing outside the ELEC offices with a tin cup going, “Please sir, may I have some campaign cash?”

And poor Sean Spiller, head of the New Jersey Education Association, couldn’t even raise the minimum $580,000 to qualify for matching funds. You know you’re in trouble when the head of the teachers’ union can’t pass his own funding test!

In total, they’ve handed out over $25.8 MILLION in matching funds this primary cycle! TWENTY-FIVE POINT EIGHT MILLION DOLLARS! That’s more money than most people will see in their lifetime, and it’s being spent on CAMPAIGN ADS! You know, those things you frantically try to skip after 5 seconds on YouTube!

New Jersey’s public financing plan gives candidates $2 for every $1 they raise. TWO FOR ONE! That’s a better deal than any Black Friday sale I’ve ever seen! It’s like that episode of Friends where Joey finds out about the “buy one, get one free” deal at the pizza place and ends up with seventeen pizzas in his apartment!

So the next time you’re driving through New Jersey, paying those obscene tolls, just remember—your money isn’t fixing those potholes. It’s paying for some politician’s face to be plastered on a billboard with a slogan like “Committed to New Jersey’s Future” or whatever focus-grouped nonsense they’re peddling this year!

And the worst part? All nine candidates combined have raised $15.6 million as of the end of 2024. Do you know what that means? It means we taxpayers are paying MORE for these campaigns than the actual donors! We’re subsidizing a political popularity contest that makes high school student council elections look like models of fiscal responsibility!

This isn’t democracy—this is financial MADNESS with a New Jersey accent!

The post ‘The Great Garden State Money Grab’: Your Tax Dollars at Work! appeared first on Insider NJ.