March, 2025 - Explore New Jersey

The New Jersey Devils conclude their three-game homestand as they host the Vancouver Canucks on Women’s Empowerment Night at The Rock

GAME PREVIEW: NEW JERSEY DEVILS VS. VANCOUVER CANUCKS

New Jersey Devils (37-28-6) vs. Vancouver Canucks (32-26-12)
Date: March 24, 2024
Time: 7:00 PM ET
Location: Prudential Center, Newark, NJ
TV: ESPN+, Hulu
Radio: Devils Hockey Network
Presented by: Complete Mechanical Solutions

Setting the Stage

The New Jersey Devils conclude their three-game homestand as they host the Vancouver Canucks in a pivotal late-season matchup. Both teams are fighting for playoff positioning, making tonight’s contest crucial in the final stretch of the regular season.

The Devils look to bounce back from a 3-2 loss to the Ottawa Senators, while Vancouver, two spots out of the Western Conference Wild Card race, will be desperate to keep its postseason hopes alive. The last meeting between these teams saw New Jersey dominate in a 6-0 shutout on October 30 in Vancouver.

Women’s Empowerment Night at The Rock

Tonight’s game is also Women’s Empowerment Night, a special evening dedicated to celebrating the achievements of women in sports and beyond. The Devils are proud to honor female athletes, leaders, and trailblazers who have made significant contributions to hockey and the broader community. The night will feature special guests, in-game tributes, and recognition of local women making a difference. Fans can also look forward to exclusive Women’s Empowerment merchandise and initiatives aimed at inspiring the next generation of female leaders.

Projected Lineup Changes & Key Players

Forward Ondrej Palat is expected to return after missing two games with an undisclosed injury.
Curtis Lazar and Nathan Bastian will be scratched, with Justin Dowling slotting into the lineup.
Goaltender Jacob Markstrom will start against his former team.

Head coach Sheldon Keefe emphasized Palat’s leadership, stating, “When Palat speaks, guys listen. He helps settle the group and provides consistency in our game.”

Devils Looking for Consistency

New Jersey has had an up-and-down stretch, losing three of its last four games. With only 11 regular-season games remaining, every point matters. Captain Nico Hischier stressed the importance of regaining their form, saying, “We just have to get back to playing the right way and believing in each other.”

Hughes vs. Hughes

While superstar Jack Hughes remains out with a shoulder injury, fans will still witness a Hughes family showdown as Luke (New Jersey) takes on his brother Quinn (Vancouver). Luke noted that he enjoyed some family time earlier in the week, but all focus now shifts to the game.

Scouting the Canucks

Vancouver enters tonight’s contest having won six of its last 11 games (6-4-1). The team is in a critical battle for a playoff spot and will be missing key contributors Elias Pettersson and Nils Hoglander, who were both injured against the Rangers. The Canucks’ offense is led by Quinn Hughes (51 assists, 67 points) and Brock Boeser (23 goals). In net, Kevin Lankinen has stepped up with a career-high 24 wins.

By the Numbers

Devils Leaders

Goals: Nico Hischier (31)
Assists: Jesper Bratt (61)
Points: Jesper Bratt (81)

Canucks Leaders

Goals: Brock Boeser, Jake DeBrusk (23)
Assists: Quinn Hughes (51)
Points: Quinn Hughes (67)

What’s at Stake

The Devils sit third in the Metropolitan Division with a six-point cushion over the Rangers but need wins to solidify their playoff positioning. Meanwhile, the Canucks are in a desperate fight for a postseason berth. Expect a high-intensity battle as both teams look to secure a much-needed victory.

Puck drops at 7:00 PM ET—don’t miss the action!

All – or Almost All – Roads Lead to Parsippany

PARSIPPANY – As traffic stops involving public officials go, this one seemed benign.

Back in the summer of 2023, Councilman Justin Musella was a passenger in a car that was stopped for speeding in town. His wife was driving.

The approaching police officer saw Musella and obviously recognized him. He addressed him as “Justin.” All this is on a video of the incident.

Musella said they were trying to catch a train. Musella’s wife showed the officer the councilman’s business card, which probably was redundant, because the cop knew who he was. No ticket was written.

We digress.

Many political observers have seen – and read about – politicians getting stopped by police and arrogantly saying something like, “Do you know who I am?”

The best response to that is for a cop to say, “No, but I will in 30 seconds when you show me your license.”

No interplay like that occurred here. Musella and his wife went on their way and the incident was over.

Not really.

Now we are in the spring of 2025 and Musella is challenging Mayor Jamie Barberio in the June Republican primary.

The 2023 traffic stop has become a big issue.

So much so that Barberio is backing a council resolution to censure Musella at Tuesday night’s meeting. A “censure” sounds worse than it is. While it is an official reprimand that someone did something naughty, it doesn’t carry a lot of weight.

The censure vote was to occur last week, but the council chamber was so overflowing with residents, the meeting was postponed. This week’s meeting will be at a larger venue – Parsippany Hills High School.

Here is what the mayor says about the incident on social media.

“The (state) statute states that ‘No local government officer or employee shall use or attempt to use his official position to secure unwarranted privileges or advantages for himself or others.’ The reason for the censuring was due to a public video of police body cam footage from a traffic stop on 08/03/2023 where Musella and his wife were pulled over for exceeding the speed limit by 20-24 mph. When the officer on the stop asked them for their credentials, Councilman Musella handed the officer his officially issued business card, and the responding officer immediately let them go.”

The mayor says Musella was again pulled over for speeding a few months later and was also let go. Barberio adds:

“Musella is attempting to evade accountability for his abuse of power. He is seeking to justify his reckless speeding through residential neighborhoods, which puts residents and children at risk. Meanwhile, Justin thinks he is entitled to operate under a distinct set of rules, seemingly above the law that governs others.”

Musella responded:

“Parsippany residents see through Jamie Barberio’s political stunt – a desperate distraction from the real challenges caused by his failed policies. (Last) Tuesday’s strong turnout proves the people won’t tolerate this baseless lawfare. It’s time to end the games and focus on what truly matters.”

Musella said he has no recollection and has seen no evidence of the second traffic stop to which Barberio referred.

It is worth noting that before this race began dissolving into animosity, Morris County Republicans tried to bring Musella into the fold by asking him to run for reelection as a councilman on Barberio’s ticket.

As we can see, that plan failed.

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3 Takeaways From the Devils’ 3-2 Loss to the Senators

The New Jersey Devils hosted the Ottawa Senators on Saturday, March 22 for their third and final matchup of the season. The Senators took the victory here, 3-2.

Here are three takeaways from the New Jersey Devils’ 3-2 loss to the Ottawa Senators:

1. Struggles on the Power Play:

One of the key factors that contributed to the loss was the Devils’ inability to capitalize on their power play opportunities. In a tight game like this, special teams often play a significant role, and the Devils may have missed a few chances to break the game open during their power plays.

2. Defensive Gaps and Missed Coverage:

The Devils’ defense showed some lapses that allowed the Senators to score key goals. These defensive mistakes, such as missed assignments or poor puck management in their own zone, can be costly against a team like the Senators, who are opportunistic when given a chance.

3. Goaltending Performance:

The goaltending was solid, but the Devils’ netminder might not have been able to do enough to keep the team in the game during crucial moments. Despite some good saves, it’s often the case that a couple of key stops can make the difference in a one-goal game.

Overall, the Devils will need to clean up both their power play and defensive structure to avoid similar results in future games.

Diane Giani

Diane Giani, 88 years old, born in Orange, NJ, and raised in Jersey City, passed away peacefully on March 1, 2025, at a Nursing Facility in Wall, NJ.

Diane was a graduate of Snyder High School in Jersey City. She was employed at Ford Motor Co. in Newark, NJ, and later worked at Merck & Co. until she retired in 1990. Diane was involved in Dancing Reviews at Four Seasons Residence, and was also a participant at the First Presbyterian Church in Manasquan.
Diane was predeceased by her parents, Albert and Gladys Stewart (née Ward), her brother Roger Stewart, Uncle Norman and Aunt Mildred Ward and her cousins Norman & David. Diane is survived in life by her husband, Anthony, of 55 years, her daughter Laurel Griso Sandacata and her husband Dennis, daughters Donna O’Boyle and Michelle Giani, her grandchildren Michael and Kelly O’Boyle and sister-in-law Joan Stewart.
Family and friends are invited to attend visitation on March 6, 2025 from 10:00am to 12:00pm at Orender Family Funeral Home, 2643 Old Bridge Road, Manasquan, NJ, with a service to start at 12:00pm prior to interment at Greenwood Cemetery, Brielle, NJ. To send condolences to the family, please visit http://www.orenderfamilyhome.net

Ice Rescue Training Turns into Real-Life Emergency Response

First Responders Rescue Elderly Man from Icy Waters of Lake Hopatcong

First responders tending to the victim who fell through the ice on Lake Hopatcong. An ice rescue training exercise on Lake Hopatcong turned into an actual life-saving mission yesterday, when members of the Morris County Sheriff’s Office and multiple first responder agencies saved an 82-year-old man who had fallen through the ice near their emergency drill.

“It is work like this, with our other public safety partners, that makes it all worth it. Responding in a time of need and applying our training to help an individual who is in dire consequences, all with positive outcomes. Saving lives is the purpose of our mission and the reason why we train together and ensure seamless performance,” said Morris County Sheriff James M. Gannon.

The incident unfolded while the Sheriff’s Office was conducting a joint training alongside the N.J. State Police, Mt. Arlington Police Department, Hopatcong Police Department and the N.J. Division of Fish and Wildlife Conservation Police at Lee’s County Park Marina in Mt. Arlington. An urgent report came in that a man had fallen through the lake ice near the Lake Hopatcong Yacht Club on Bertrand Island.

Sgt. Edward Koster of the Sheriff’s Office Marine Unit, Sgt. Nicholas Vernotica of the Patrol Division, Cpl. Ivan Bajceski and Sheriff’s Officer Ryan Wood of the Emergency Services Unit (ESU) and the N.J. State Police Marine Bureau quickly mobilized to assist in the rescue.

The victim, who had been operating an iceboat on the lake, was observed lying on the ice and his vessel was partially submerged in the broken ice. Three Mt. Arlington firefighters were already making their way across the unstable ice to reach him when Sgt. Koster and Cpl. Bajceski reached the scene with the Sheriff’s ESU truck and met the incident commander from the Mt. Arlington Fire Department.

Sgt. Vernotica and Sheriff’s Officer Wood arrived with the Sheriff’s Heavy Rescue Truck and deployed the MARSARS® Ice Rescue Sled. While tethered to the shoreline, Sgt. Koster, Cpl. Bajceski and N.J. State Police Trooper Thomas Gilroy carefully advanced across the ice and maneuvered the sled toward the victim, who remained conscious and alert. Mt. Arlington firefighters had secured a sling around him and rescuers placed him onto the sled before signaling the shoreline team to pull him to safety.

As the sled reached the edge of the ice shelf, Sgt. Vernotica, Sheriff’s Officer Wood and Mt. Arlington Police Officer Matthew Kaiteris waded into waist-deep water to carry the victim to solid ground, where he was immediately transferred to St. Clare’s EMS for medical evaluation.

Following the successful rescue, Troopers Gilroy and McClafferty of the N.J. State Police and two Mt. Arlington firefighters later returned to the ice and recovered the man’s iceboat.

The dramatic rescue underscores the dangers of venturing onto the ice and the critical role of specialized training in emergency response. Authorities urge the public to exercise extreme caution on frozen lakes and remain aware of changing ice conditions.

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Photo 1: First responders tending to the victim who fell through the ice on Lake Hopatcong.

Photo 2: First responders reacting to the emergency at Lake Hopatcong.

Photo 3: First responders assisting the victim after removing him from the icy waters of Lake Hopatcong.

The Newton Theatre presents Gaelic Storm

(NEWTON, NJ) — Gaelic Storm comes to The Newton Theatre on Saturday, June 21, 2025 at 8:00pm. It’s hard to imagine a band just coming into their own after 20 years of success, but that’s exactly what makes a true anomaly. Gaelic Storm, a multi-national, Celtic juggernaut grows stronger with each live performance, and after two decades and over 2000 shows, they are a true force to be reckoned with.

The New Jersey Devils: A Closer Look at Their Game Dynamics and Season Highlights

The New Jersey Devils have long been a staple in the NHL, captivating fans with their fast-paced gameplay and thrilling matchups. As the 2023 season progresses, it’s essential to dive deeper into the dynamics of their games, analyze pivotal moments, and preview upcoming matchups. This article aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the New Jersey Devils, focusing on game previews, results, and the overall performance of the team.

The Historical Context of the New Jersey Devils

Founded in 1982, the New Jersey Devils have built a rich history filled with highs and lows. Initially known as the Colorado Rockies, the franchise relocated to New Jersey in 1982, where they adopted their current name. Over the years, the Devils have become synonymous with defensive excellence and have often been regarded as one of the premier teams in the NHL.

Key Achievements

Throughout their history, the Devils have won three Stanley Cup championships (in 1995, 2000, and 2003), showcasing their ability to compete at the highest level. These victories not only solidified their place in hockey history but also cultivated a passionate fan base that continues to support the team.

2023 Season Overview

The current season has been a rollercoaster for the New Jersey Devils. With a mix of seasoned veterans and emerging stars, the team’s performance has drawn attention from analysts and fans alike. As of now, the Devils are striving to secure a playoff spot, which has become a focal point for the coaching staff and players.

Player Performances and Standout Stars

This season, several players have stood out for the Devils. Notably, their captain has been instrumental in leading the team both on and off the ice. His leadership has been crucial in tight games, often stepping up during critical moments. Additionally, the younger players have shown remarkable growth, contributing significantly to the team’s offense and defense.

Offensive Dynamics

The Devils’ offensive strategies have evolved, focusing on speed and puck possession. Their ability to cycle the puck effectively has kept opponents on their toes. This season, the power play has seen improvements, capitalizing on chances created by their skilled forwards.

Defensive Strategies

Defensively, the Devils have made strides in minimizing scoring opportunities for their opponents. The defensive unit has been diligent in maintaining structure, which is vital for their success. The goaltending has also played a crucial role, with key saves coming at pivotal moments in games.

Game Previews: What to Expect

Looking ahead, the New Jersey Devils have several crucial matchups that could define their season. Each game presents unique challenges, and understanding the opponents’ strengths and weaknesses will be vital for the Devils’ success.

Upcoming Matchup Against the Rival Team

One of the most anticipated games is against their long-standing rival. This matchup is not just another game; it’s an opportunity for the Devils to showcase their growth and competitive spirit. Fans can expect a high-energy game filled with intensity and emotion.

Key Players to Watch

In the upcoming game, several players will be crucial for the Devils. The captain’s performance will be pivotal in setting the tone for the match. Additionally, the young forward, known for his speed and agility, will need to exploit any defensive lapses from the opponent.

Game Results: Reflecting on Past Performances

Analyzing past game results provides insight into the team’s trajectory. The Devils have had a mix of wins and losses, each contributing to their overall development. It’s essential to dissect these results to understand what has worked and what hasn’t.

Notable Wins

Some standout victories this season have highlighted the team’s potential. Wins against top-tier teams have demonstrated their capability to compete with the best in the league. These victories often come down to strong performances in the final periods, showcasing their resilience and determination.

Areas for Improvement

Despite several successes, there are areas where the Devils can improve. Consistency has been a challenge, with some games showing a lack of offensive production or defensive lapses. Addressing these issues in practice will be crucial as the season progresses.

The Fan Experience: Supporting the Devils

The fan experience in New Jersey is unparalleled. With a dedicated following, Devils fans create an electric atmosphere during home games. From the pre-game tailgating to the post-game celebrations, the camaraderie among fans is a testament to the team’s impact on the community.

Engaging with the Team

In today’s digital age, fans have more access to the team than ever before. Social media platforms allow fans to engage with players, share their thoughts, and stay updated on game results and previews. This connection fosters a sense of belonging and loyalty among supporters.

Looking Ahead: The Future of the New Jersey Devils

As the season unfolds, the future looks bright for the New Jersey Devils. With a solid mix of experienced players and promising young talent, the team is poised for sustained success. Building on the current season’s lessons will be vital for their long-term aspirations.

Development of Young Talent

The development of young talent is crucial for the Devils’ future. By nurturing and providing opportunities for these players, the organization can ensure a competitive edge in the coming years. The front office’s commitment to scouting and player development will be the foundation for the team’s success.

Community Involvement

Moreover, the Devils’ involvement in the community has strengthened their bond with fans. Initiatives aimed at promoting youth hockey and engaging with local schools have fostered a new generation of fans who are invested in the team’s success.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the New Jersey Devils continue to be a force in the NHL, with a season filled with dramatic moments and opportunities for growth. As fans and analysts alike keep a close eye on their journey, it’s clear that the team has the potential to achieve great things. With continued support from their passionate fan base and a focus on development, the Devils are on the path to returning to glory.

Sherrill Hits the Streets

BEDMINSTER – The intersection of Route 206 and Lamington Road used to be – just an intersection in a tony town.

Now it’s an epicenter of democracy in New Jersey.

On this Sunday, the MAGA troops got there first. Waving giant Trump flags and some attired in Trump clothing, about 30 or so supporters celebrated the president’s two months in office.

But then, around noon, a somewhat larger group of letter carriers arrived with a huge banner reading, “Fight Like Hell.”

They set up shop about 75 yards away from the MAGA group along 206 South.

They were there to fight possible plans of the Trump Administration to privatize the postal service. They say that would mean service cutbacks, especially in rural areas, and the loss of jobs.

A local police officer stood between the two groups in a demilitarized zone of sorts.

There’s nothing coincidental about the location – Trump’s golf course is a few miles down the road to the west and the president was there earlier this weekend.

Trump supporters, who have been a steady presence at the location going back to Trump’s first term, dismissed the protest as the work of liberal Democrats. And as one person reminded the letter carriers as they walked by, “Trump won.”

A few minutes later, Rep. Mikie Sherrill joined the group in support.

Sherrill, who is running for governor, noted that the postal service is mentioned in the U.S. Constitution.

“I sincerely appreciate all the work you do,” she said.

Sherrill said she has opposed Louis DeJoy, the outgoing Postmaster General, because:

“We can’t have someone in charge of the postal service who hates the postal service.”

She pledged to keep on fighting to support postal service jobs.

One union official told the letter carriers it’s confusing why MAGA folks would oppose their interests.

After all, he said, the post office delivers mail to everybody.

That’s a legitimate point. But today’s polarized political world doesn’t have room for many subtleties.

The Trump crowd was surprised Sherrill showed up and was speaking a short distance away..

One man said Sherrill’s politics are not to his liking, although he favorably acknowledged her military record. She is a Navy veteran.

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Kim Terrified of Trump World

BRANCHBURG – Andy Kim stood before about 500 people Friday night and talked about his two young children.

“I’m terrified at what kind of country they will grow up in,” the senator said at a town hall at Raritan Valley Community College.

Kim ticked off some of what he considers the most damaging moves of the Trump Administration.

Broadly speaking, they included the power of Elon Musk, cuts to Medicaid, which as of now benefits 2 million New Jersey residents, the on-again, off-again tariffs and a tilt toward Russia in defiance of traditional U.S. support for democracy.

This was a supportive crowd – at least as far as Donald Trump was concerned.

Most of the questions revolved around what average residents can do to fight the Trump Administration.

Kim boiled things down to two areas – fighting Medicaid cuts, which he said will impact nursing homes, and tariffs, which he said can force many small businesses to raise prices.

More than one question, however, was about why Democrats are not fighting harder. Along these lines, when Chuck Schumer’s name popped up, there were boos.

In response. Kim said he was proud of Democratic accomplishments when he was in the House, including action on climate change and reducing drug costs by allowing Medicare to negotiate prices.

But then he acknowledged:

“It isn’t just about passing legislation. We were terrible at messaging.”

Applause from the crowd showed they agreed.

He said that is why he is trying to “step up” and engage residents with town halls.

Kim, actually, is a veteran of such things.

Counting his time in the House, Kim said the Friday gathering was the 85th town hall he has held. On Thursday, he held one in Atlantic County and on Saturday, he had one scheduled for Brick Township.

And here is a key question the senator says he must consider.

“Does the message you are trying to convey get to the people?”

The only time the nearly two hour session briefly went off the rails was when a Palestinian supporter practically gave a speech about unjust Israeli actions.

“This is not the place for that,” one woman yelled. Another spectator did likewise. Order was soon restored.

The location of the event was in CD-7, which is something Kim – and the audience – certainly recognized.

Rep. Thomas H. Kean Jr., the local congressman, has become infamous – at least to some – for not holding in-person town halls and avoiding contact with the press. He does have a telephone town hall set for next week.

With that in mind, one man asked Kim what he thinks people should ask Kean if they get through on the phone.

This event was not necessarily a partisan one, but Kim could not bypass the chance to score some points with the crowd. He said a good query for Kean would be:

“Why are you hiding from your constituents?”

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Senators Hold Off Devils in Newark, Win 3-2

On Saturday evening, the Ottawa Senators clashed with the New Jersey Devils in Newark, with both teams looking to gain some much-needed cushion in the competitive playoff race. It was the Senators who ultimately came out on top, securing a 3-2 victory in a hard-fought, intense battle.

From the opening puck drop, both teams exhibited a strong desire to get on the board early. The Devils, playing in front of their home crowd at the Prudential Center, had an edge in possession early on, but it was the Senators who struck first. A well-executed play from Ottawa’s top line led to a quick, sharp wrist shot that found its way past Devils’ goaltender Mackenzie Blackwood, giving the Senators a 1-0 lead in the first period.

New Jersey responded in the second, pushing hard to level the game. The Devils’ efforts were rewarded midway through the period when Jack Hughes delivered a dazzling move and fired a quick shot that beat Senators’ netminder Anton Forsberg to tie the game at 1-1. The momentum seemed to shift towards New Jersey as they continued to pressure Ottawa, but Forsberg stood tall, making several key saves to keep the game even.

The third period saw both teams tighten up defensively, with playoff implications hanging in the balance. The Senators regained the lead on a power-play goal from Thomas Chabot, whose slap shot from the point found its way through traffic and past Blackwood. The Devils, though, refused to go quietly, and with just under five minutes remaining, they once again tied things up with a goal from Jesper Bratt, who pounced on a rebound in front of the net.

However, the Senators weren’t done yet. With just under two minutes left in the game, Ottawa’s Shane Pinto buried a beautiful pass from Alex DeBrincat, sending the puck into the back of the net for the eventual game-winner. New Jersey mounted one final push, but Forsberg and the Senators’ defense held firm, securing the 3-2 victory.

The win was crucial for Ottawa, as it helped them stay in the hunt for a playoff spot in the tight Eastern Conference. Forsberg played an instrumental role in the victory, stopping 30 of 32 shots, while Ottawa’s special teams came through with the game-winning power-play goal. The loss was a tough blow for the Devils, who remain in the playoff mix but will have to regroup quickly as the season heads toward its final stretch.

As both teams continue to battle for a postseason berth, Saturday night’s contest was a reminder of just how tight the race is. With only a handful of games left, every point will be critical, and the Senators will look to carry the momentum from this crucial win into the coming week.