Prepare for an evening of exceptional chamber music as the acclaimed Signum Quartet returns to Princeton on Thursday, May 1, 2025. They will perform as part of the Princeton Symphony Orchestra’s (PSO) newly launched Chamber Series at the historic Trinity Church.
Their innovative programming and flawless interpretations have earned them international acclaim, with Rondo Magazin praising their “enormously intelligent and knowledgeable programming.” Princeton Symphony Orchestra
About Trinity Church:
Located in the heart of Princeton, Trinity Church is the largest Episcopal church in New Jersey. Founded in 1833, the church features a Gothic Revival structure designed by Richard Upjohn and Ralph Adams Cram. The interior boasts a rich musical heritage, including a renowned choir program that has been integral to its worship since the late 19th century. Wikipedia
Attendees can look forward to a night of exceptional music in a setting steeped in history and architectural beauty. Whether you’re a longtime fan of the Signum Quartet or new to their music, this performance is not to be missed.
The Philadelphia Phillies’ road trip hit another snag Friday night as their bats went cold in a 2–0 loss to the St. Louis Cardinals at Busch Stadium. While Phillies ace Aaron Nola battled through five innings, the St. Louis pitching staff—anchored by a masterful performance from starter Andre Pallante—kept Philadelphia off the scoreboard and in a growing offensive slump.
AP Photo/Jeff Roberson
A Night Dominated by Cardinals Pitching
Right-hander Andre Pallante (2–0) delivered seven dominant innings, silencing the Phillies’ offense by allowing just two singles while striking out four and issuing two walks. With sharp command and timely pitches, Pallante dictated the tempo from the mound, neutralizing Philadelphia’s hitters inning after inning.
His efficiency was complemented by solid relief work from Phil Maton, who breezed through the eighth, and closer Ryan Helsley, who pitched around a leadoff single in the ninth to notch his second save of the season. The combined effort secured St. Louis’ first shutout of the 2025 campaign.
Breakout Game for Rookie Catcher Yohel Pozo
While the Cardinals’ pitching was the story of the night, it was a surprise contribution on offense that helped tip the scales. Rookie catcher Yohel Pozo, recently called up and making only his second appearance with the Cardinals, entered the game early as an injury replacement. Shortstop Masyn Winn exited with lower back spasms in the second inning, prompting a shuffle in the Cardinals’ infield. Pedro Pagés moved from catcher to second base, and Thomas Saggese slid over to shortstop.
Pozo made the most of the opportunity. He went 3-for-4 at the plate, tying a career high for hits in a single game—a mark he hadn’t reached since his 2021 stint with the Texas Rangers. His key contribution came in the fifth inning when he lashed a double into the left-field corner, scoring Saggese all the way from first base to give St. Louis a 1–0 lead.
Later that inning, Nola momentarily lost command, walking Nolan Arenado and Alec Burleson back-to-back with the bases loaded, forcing in Pozo for the game’s only other run.
Aaron Nola’s Mixed Outing
Aaron Nola (0–3) continued his early-season struggles, despite recording seven strikeouts in five innings. The veteran right-hander scattered seven hits and allowed two earned runs, but an unusually high walk total—four on the night—proved costly. That stat was particularly glaring considering he had issued only one free pass across his previous two starts combined.
Nola had previously been dominant against the Cardinals, boasting a 4–0 record in five starts against them since the 2022 National League Wild Card series. But on this night, control issues and untimely hits from the Cardinals’ lineup kept him from finding that same rhythm.
A Tough Stretch for the Phillies’ Offense
The shutout marked Philadelphia’s third loss in their last four games and underscored a troubling trend at the plate. Over their last 17 innings, the Phillies have managed to score just one run. On Friday, the team was held to only three hits, and the inability to capitalize on rare scoring chances proved frustrating.
One such opportunity came in the fifth inning, when Kyle Schwarber reached second base after a stolen base attempt and an errant throw. With two outs and the tying run in scoring position, Bryson Stott stepped to the plate. But Pallante won the battle, striking Stott out on a high fastball to end the threat.
Defensive Adjustments and Standouts
The Cardinals’ makeshift infield performed admirably following Winn’s exit. Thomas Saggese not only filled in capably at shortstop but also sparked the offense with a pair of hits, including the run scored on Pozo’s RBI double.
Meanwhile, the Phillies saw a brief flash of aggressiveness on the bases with Schwarber’s swipe in the first inning, but the offense as a whole lacked its usual spark.
What’s Next for the Series
The Phillies will look to bounce back in Game 2 of the series on Saturday night. Left-hander Cristopher Sánchez (0–0, 4.09 ERA) is set to take the mound for Philadelphia, while the Cardinals will counter with right-hander Miles Mikolas (0–1, 11.25 ERA), who is aiming to rebound from a rough start to the season.
With the Phillies’ offense in a rut, all eyes will be on whether they can jump-start their lineup and find some momentum as they approach the heart of their road schedule.
In a closely contested vote, the U.S. House of Representatives narrowly approved a budget resolution that aligns with President Donald Trump’s fiscal agenda, including provisions to extend the 2017 tax cuts and implement significant spending reductions. The resolution passed with a 216-214 vote, with one Democratic member absent due to hospitalization, effectively reducing the required majority for passage. Axios+3New York Post+3The Atlantic+3CBS News+1New York Post+1
Key Provisions of the Budget Resolution
The approved resolution sets the stage for legislation that would:
Extend the 2017 tax cuts, potentially adding up to $5 trillion to the federal debt over the next decade. Axios+2Reuters+2New York Post+2
The resolution also includes provisions to reduce mandatory spending by at least $1.5 trillion, though the specifics of these cuts remain to be determined.
Rep. Jeff Van Drew’s Response
Rep. Jeff Van Drew (R-NJ) expressed that the vote was procedural and not the central issue. He emphasized that the focus should be on the subsequent legislative process to implement the budget’s provisions. Van Drew’s stance reflects a broader Republican strategy to utilize the budget reconciliation process to advance key elements of President Trump’s agenda, including tax reform and spending adjustments.
Political Implications and Next Steps
The passage of the budget resolution marks a significant step in advancing President Trump’s legislative priorities. However, challenges remain as the resolution now moves to the Senate, where it may encounter differing priorities and potential amendments. The outcome of this process will have substantial implications for federal fiscal policy and the broader political landscape.The Guardian+4The Atlantic+4CNN+4
House Passes Budget Resolution Aligned with Trump Agenda
On a Sunday in March, 2025, Belmar, New Jersey, hosted its 17th Annual Dine & Discover Restaurant Tour, inviting residents and visitors alike to indulge in the town’s rich culinary offerings.From 11:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., attendees embarked on a gastronomic journey, sampling diverse cuisines from numerous local eateries.vacationinbelmar.com+1100.1 WJRZ+1
This annual event not only showcases Belmar’s vibrant food scene but also fosters community spirit, drawing both locals and tourists to explore and appreciate the town’s diverse culinary landscape.
A swift and coordinated response from local firefighters helped prevent a serious incident in Haddonfield recently, when a basement fire broke out in a popular restaurant.
Onlookers watched with relief as crews from the Haddon and Westmont Fire Companies acted quickly to contain the blaze before it could spread beyond the building. Out of an abundance of caution, nearby homes and businesses were temporarily evacuated while firefighters brought the situation under control.
Thanks to their rapid response and teamwork, the fire was subdued without injuries and with minimal damage to surrounding properties.
This incident serves as a powerful reminder of the professionalism and dedication of New Jersey’s first responders. Haddonfield residents and business owners can breathe easier knowing they’re in such capable hands.
Stay connected with Explore New Jersey for more local news and community highlights that showcase the strength and spirit of the Garden State.
If you’re planning to build, buy, or renovate in New Jersey anytime soon, brace yourself—those plans may be getting more expensive.
With a new wave of proposed tariffs set to be unveiled by former President Donald Trump, the homebuilding industry is bracing for significant cost increases. Despite Trump’s well-known ties to real estate, builders across the country—including here in the Garden State—are concerned that the tariffs will hit one of the most housing-sensitive sectors of the economy just as it starts to regain momentum.
Home construction and renovation rely heavily on imported materials, many of which come from Canada, Mexico, and China—three countries now facing the possibility of steep tariffs. According to the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB), nearly one-third of all lumber used in U.S. home construction is imported, with 70% of that coming from Canada. That lumber is already taxed at a rate of 14.5%, and prices have jumped nearly 16% compared to a year ago.
“These tariffs will be felt in every room of a newly built home,” said Jim Tobin, NAHB’s president and CEO. “From drywall sourced in Mexico to lighting and electronics from China, the added costs will ripple through every stage of the construction process.”
The timing couldn’t be worse. After years of high mortgage rates and steep home prices, the real estate market had finally begun to show tentative signs of recovery this spring. But the comeback has been uneven, and builders say the potential for a 25% tariff on key materials could stall or reverse progress.
In New Jersey, where housing demand remains high—particularly along the shore and in rapidly growing suburbs—any increase in construction costs could further price out middle-income families. The NAHB estimates that the added tariffs could raise the cost of a new home by approximately $9,200. Other industry surveys suggest the increase could be even steeper, potentially tacking on as much as $25,000 to the median-priced home.
Tobin also pointed out that housing is a major contributor to inflation, which has been a central issue for voters. “The president has pledged to address the cost of living and build more homes, but these tariffs work directly against that goal,” he said.
As New Jersey builders and homeowners prepare for another busy season of construction and renovation, all eyes are on Washington. One thing is certain: whether you’re adding a new deck in Hoboken or building your dream home in Cape May, this policy shift may mean you’re paying more for every nail, beam, and light fixture.
Founded by sisters Miko and Amal Page, Kukki is more than just a bakery—it’s a labor of love rooted in wellness, creativity, and a shared passion for crafting desserts that are as wholesome as they are indulgent.
The sisters bring a unique mix of backgrounds to their venture. Miko, a former professional golfer with a business degree, fine-tuned the bakery’s recipes with a focus on simplicity and flavor. Amal, whose love for baking bloomed early on, infused the business with her own flair for health-conscious confections and community-minded energy.
At Kukki, everything is made in small batches, using 100% plant-based ingredients. But don’t expect anything “alternative” about the taste—these cookies are rich, satisfying, and designed to win over everyone from lifelong vegans to devoted dessert traditionalists.
“Our goal was always to create something inclusive,” says Amal. “We wanted Kukki to be a place where anyone could walk in, enjoy something sweet, and feel good about it.”
He’s only 21, but Jake Thistle already has the resume of a seasoned rock musician. And tomorrow night, the New Jersey native will celebrate his milestone birthday the best way he knows how—on stage, guitar in hand, at one of the state’s most iconic venues.
Thistle is set to headline a special birthday concert at Wonder Bar in Asbury Park, bringing his signature blend of heartfelt lyrics, classic rock vibes, and youthful energy to the shore.
A true musical prodigy, Jake has been performing since he was a kid, sharing stages with legends and earning praise from industry vets along the way. At just 21, he’s already a veteran of the local and regional music scenes, with a sound that pays homage to rock’s golden age while carving out something distinctly his own.
Fans can expect a night filled with original songs, a few surprises, and the electric energy of a young artist who lives to perform. Whether you’re a longtime supporter or new to Jake’s music, this birthday show promises to be a standout moment in the local live music calendar.
New Jersey politics took the spotlight on Thursday night as attorney Alina Habba appeared on Fox News’ Hannity to issue a strong critique of the Murphy administration’s stance on immigration enforcement. During the segment, Habba announced that a federal investigation is now underway into Governor Phil Murphy and Attorney General Matt Platkin, alleging obstruction of federal immigration efforts.
Habba, a well-known legal voice and political figure, used her national platform to voice concern over New Jersey’s status as a so-called “Sanctuary State”—a designation that limits cooperation between state and federal immigration authorities. She claimed that these policies not only defy federal law but also put public safety at risk.
“This isn’t about politics—it’s about the law,” Habba said during the interview. “The federal government has a responsibility to enforce immigration policy, and state officials shouldn’t be allowed to stand in the way.”
The probe, according to Habba, aims to examine whether state-level directives under Murphy and Platkin have actively obstructed or interfered with federal immigration enforcement operations in New Jersey communities.
The Murphy administration has consistently defended its approach, stating that its policies are intended to build trust between immigrant communities and local law enforcement, ensuring that all residents feel safe reporting crimes and cooperating with authorities regardless of immigration status.
As this latest development unfolds, it’s likely to fuel further debate across New Jersey—especially in towns and counties where immigration enforcement has become a flashpoint issue.
Stay with Explore New Jersey for continuing coverage as the story develops and reactions pour in from local leaders and residents alike.
