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Stella Cole Brings the Great American Songbook to Life at McCarter Theatre in Princeton on June 5 — An Unmissable Night of Timeless Jazz, Vintage Vibes, and Show-Stopping Charm in the Berlind Theatre

PRINCETON, NJ — Mark Your Calendars for June 5, 2025

This summer, Princeton won’t just be about bikes on Nassau Street, iced coffee at Small World, or weekend strolls through the university gardens. No — on Thursday, June 5, the McCarter Theatre Center is hosting an evening that’s straight out of a black-and-white film reel and lit with golden-age glamour.

Stella Cole, one of the most captivating rising stars in American jazz and cabaret, is bringing her voice, her vintage soul, and her utterly magnetic presence to the Berlind Theatre — and if you’ve ever wanted to time-travel through sound, this is your night.

Who Is Stella Cole — And Why Should You Be Paying Attention?

If you haven’t heard her name yet, don’t worry. You will.

Stella Cole has become one of the most buzzed-about voices in modern jazz, known for her effortless command of classics from Ella Fitzgerald, Frank Sinatra, Judy Garland, Nat King Cole, and all the torchbearers of the Great American Songbook. But don’t mistake her for a retro novelty — Cole’s gift isn’t just imitation. It’s interpretation. It’s soul. It’s storytelling.

She doesn’t just sing the old songs.
She lives in them.
She wraps them around the room like velvet, making something old feel daringly new.

She’s already amassed a loyal online following, graced iconic venues across the country, and shared stages with modern giants in the jazz world. But in June, she’s all ours.

A Perfect Venue for a Perfect Voice

The Berlind Theatre is a jewel box of a space — intimate, acoustically rich, and built to spotlight performances that connect. It’s exactly where you’d want to hear Cole’s voice stretch, swoop, and smolder through standards like:

🎶 “The Man I Love”
🎶 “Someone to Watch Over Me”
🎶 “Misty”
🎶 “Bewitched, Bothered and Bewildered”

The room will glow. Time will slow. You’ll forget it’s 2025 and swear you’ve wandered into a smoky supper club circa 1947.

For the Jazz Lovers, the Old Souls, and the Newcomers

Whether you grew up on Billie and Basie, or you’re just starting to discover jazz through TikTok and Spotify deep dives, Stella Cole makes the music feel alive again. This isn’t museum-piece jazz. This is jazz with a pulse. With drama. With heartbreak and heat and that delicious sense that anything can happen in the next note.

She’s got that rare quality — like Cecile McLorin Salvant, or even early Diana Krall — where every word feels earned, and every phrase takes its time. And her shows are never just concerts. They’re moments.

Make a Whole Night of It in Princeton

The show starts at 7:30pm, which gives you the perfect excuse to turn this into a full-blown summer night out.

Here’s the move:

  • 🍽️ Dinner first: Hit Mistral for small plates and seasonal cocktails or try La Mezzaluna for classic Italian right across the street.
  • ☕ Post-show digestif: Stop by The Alchemist & Barrister for a nightcap on the patio, or Chez Alice for something sweet.
  • 🌙 Stroll through town: The trees will be lit, the campus paths open. Let the final notes of Stella’s encore drift with you into the night.

Don’t Sleep on This One

Stella Cole’s star is rising — and fast. If her career continues the way it’s going (and all signs say it will), the next time you see her, it might be on a much bigger stage. This Princeton show is a chance to catch an artist at that perfect moment — confident, inspired, and deeply connected to her material.

And in a town like Princeton, in a room like Berlind, on a warm early June night?

Yeah. Magic is pretty much guaranteed.

Event Details

📍 Venue: Berlind Theatre at McCarter Theatre Center
📆 Date: Thursday, June 5, 2025
⏰ Time: 7:30 PM
🎟️ Tickets: Available now at McCarter.org — and moving fast.

TL;DR — Here’s the Vibe:

  • What: Stella Cole Live — jazz, cabaret, and vintage magic in Princeton
  • Where: Berlind Theatre, McCarter Theatre Center
  • When: June 5, 2025 at 7:30 PM
  • Why: Because nights like this don’t come around often — and when they do, you go.
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‘¡VOS!’ at Two River Theater in Red Bank Is a Daring, Unflinching Play About Life, Language, and Resistance in the Face of Fascism — and It’s a Must-See Before It Ends April 27

If you’ve been waiting for something fresh, fiery, and deeply human to hit the Jersey arts scene this spring — this is it.

Two River Theater in Red Bank is running one of the most powerful, raw, and genre-bending productions we’ve seen in a long time. It’s called ‘¡VOS!’, and it doesn’t just show you a story — it throws you into one. Into a moment. Into a movement. Into the guts of life under fascist rule, where every word spoken and every word left unsaid carries the weight of survival.

It’s modern theater with an old soul.
It’s defiant. It’s loud. It’s intimate.
And it’s only running through April 27 — so if you blink, you’ll miss it.

So, What Is ‘¡VOS!’?

‘¡VOS!’ isn’t your average sit-back-and-watch production. It’s bold. It’s multilingual. It’s alive.

Written by Christina Pumariega, and directed with razor-sharp precision by Daniella Topol, this is a story about identity, power, memory, and resistance — all framed by a haunting and familiar backdrop: a country sliding into authoritarianism. The play sways between past and present, dream and reality, protest and poetry. There are ghosts. There are jokes. There is music. There is trauma.

And through it all, there is voice.
Voices that refuse to be silenced.
Voices that echo generations of struggle and survival.

What Makes It Hit Hard?

Because it’s personal.

Pumariega, a Jersey-born, Cuban-American playwright, is channeling something rooted in lived experience and inherited history. Her words are sharp but lyrical. Heavy but full of heart. Every line feels like it was pulled straight from the gut.

And it doesn’t just talk about fascism from a distance. It pulls you into the consequences of it — in the home, in the mirror, in the quiet corners of your own memory.

The ensemble cast is electric, flipping between languages and emotional landscapes with seamless grace. You’ll laugh one second and hold your breath the next. You’ll recognize yourself in some scenes and feel like a stranger in others. That’s the point.

Why It Belongs on Your Calendar This Week

Because this is the kind of theater Jersey should be known for — brave, local, experimental, and real.

Two River Theater is no stranger to powerful work, but ‘¡VOS!’ feels like a line in the sand. It’s a message to the community: this space is for more than just entertainment. It’s a platform. A pressure valve. A mirror.

Whether you’re a regular theatergoer or someone who usually skips the stage — this one’s worth showing up for. You’ll walk out buzzing. You’ll want to talk about it. You’ll want to bring someone back with you the second time around.

Make a Day of It: Explore Red Bank Like a Local

If you’re heading to Red Bank to catch ‘¡VOS!’, do it right:

  • Grab coffee and a pastry from Rook or Booskerdoo beforehand.
  • Browse some records at Jack’s Music Shoppe, a true Jersey institution.
  • Hit Broad Street Barbecue or Birravino for dinner after the show.
  • Walk the waterfront if the weather’s on your side. Let the show sink in.

Make it a Sunday worth remembering.

Final Curtain Call: Catch ‘¡VOS!’ Before It’s Gone

‘¡VOS!’ runs at Two River Theater in Red Bank now through April 27, 2025.
There’s no guarantee this play will be produced again anytime soon — and even if it is, it won’t be with this exact cast, this exact energy, this exact moment in history breathing down its neck.

🎟️ Tickets and showtimes are available now at Two River Theater’s website — don’t wait on it.

Because art like this doesn’t wait for you.

TL;DR — Here’s the Vibe:

  • What: ‘¡VOS!’ — A fearless new play about fascism, family, and the power of voice.
  • Where: Two River Theater, Red Bank, NJ
  • When: Now through April 27
  • Why: Because this is what Jersey theater should feel like: urgent, honest, and unforgettable.
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Explore New Jersey Devils Sunday: Daniel Sprong Might Be the Secret Spark the Devils Need — Plus, A Fan’s Guide to the Rest of the 2025 Stanley Cup Playoffs (Without Us)

Let’s not sugarcoat it. The New Jersey Devils have entered the 2025 Stanley Cup Playoffs with the weight of doubt pressing on their shoulders. According to TheScore, we’ve got the longest odds to make it out of Round 1. The Carolina Hurricanes are stacked, seasoned, and snarling. Most of the hockey world’s got us penciled in for a quick exit.

But there’s one name they’re not talking about enough.
One name they’ll remember when this series is over.
Daniel Sprong.

He’s not just a spark plug—he’s nitroglycerin in skates.

The Devils’ Best-Kept Secret Might Not Be a Secret Much Longer

When the Devils picked up Sprong last offseason, it didn’t send shockwaves through the league. But maybe it should’ve. Quietly, methodically, he’s been building a highlight reel of clutch moments, threading laser beams past goaltenders, and creating chaos in the neutral zone like it’s a hobby.

This isn’t his first rodeo. He’s playoff-tested and thrives under pressure. On a team that often gets dinged for being too top-heavy or too reliant on its big names, Sprong is that middle-six X-factor that can turn momentum in an instant. He doesn’t need 20 minutes a night. He just needs one shift where everything clicks—and the puck’s in the back of the net before the other team even knows what hit them.

So go ahead, underestimate the Devils. Overlook Daniel Sprong. Just don’t act surprised when he scores the game-winner in Game 4 to even the series at The Rock.

And while we live and breathe the Devils, there’s still a whole lot of hockey happening outside our series…

Around the League: Your Devils Fan Guide to the Rest of the 2025 Stanley Cup Playoffs

This post right here? It’s for the People Who Matter—the Devils Faithful—who want a place to talk puck even when it’s not about Jersey’s team (for once). Seven other first-round matchups are underway, and they’re packed with storylines worth your second screen.

🧨 EASTERN CONFERENCE EXPLOSIONS

Washington Capitals (M1) vs. Montreal Canadiens (WC2)

🔺 The Reload vs. the Rebirth.
Nobody saw the Caps roaring to the top of the East. Even fewer expected Montreal’s youth movement to sneak into the postseason. This is old-school grit versus wide-eyed speed. It’s gonna get spicy.

Tampa Bay Lightning (A2) vs. Florida Panthers (A3)

🔥 The Battle of Florida Returns
The Bolts aren’t ready to let go of their dynasty days. The Panthers are the defending champs, just now getting healthy at the perfect moment. If you like violent, personal, no-love-lost hockey, this is the one.

Toronto Maple Leafs (A1) vs. Ottawa Senators (WC1)

🍁 The Battle of Ontario — Chapter Who-Knows
The Leafs are once again under the microscope. Can they finally turn a stacked roster into a real run? Ottawa’s playing with house money and zero pressure. The upset watch is officially on.

🌪 WESTERN CONFERENCE WARS

Winnipeg Jets (C1, President’s Trophy) vs. St. Louis Blues (WC2)

🧱 The Juggernaut vs. The Survivors
Winnipeg crushed the regular season. But St. Louis clawed their way in with pure desperation and a few miracle saves. You know how these stories go—David only needs one stone.

Dallas Stars (C2) vs. Colorado Avalanche (C3)

🎯 The Rantanen Revenge Tour
Colorado shipped out Rantanen. He landed in Dallas and cashed in. Now the Avs have to stare down their old superstar in a series loaded with speed, spite, and scoring.

Vegas Golden Knights (P1) vs. Minnesota Wild (WC1)

👑 Fleury’s Final Act?
The Knights cast him off. Minnesota gave him a home. Marc-André Fleury might be writing his last playoff chapter—and what better ending than stealing a series from the franchise that dropped him?

Los Angeles Kings (P2) vs. Edmonton Oilers (P3)

⚔️ Rivalry Redefined
Year Four of this first-round feud. The Kings are lockdown artists. The Oilers are still running the McDavid-Draisaitl cheat code. We don’t know who’ll win—but we do know it’s going the distance.

The Rules of the Post (Yeah, We Gotta Have ‘Em)

This is an open post—a place to hang, talk puck, and vibe with your fellow Devils diehards. But let’s keep it clean and classy:

  • No swearing (yes, even with the sneaky symbols).
  • No personal attacks. We chirp teams, not each other.
  • No illegal streams. Not even hints. Not even memes.
  • Stick to the topic: non-Devils playoff hockey. League news is cool too.

The Devils will get their own wall-to-wall coverage in every other post. This one’s just a chance to breathe, scroll, and maybe find a second-favorite team to root against.

TL;DR? Here’s What You Need to Know:

  • The Devils are underdogs—but Daniel Sprong might be the wild card that changes everything.
  • Seven wild first-round matchups are happening outside of Devils-Canes. Pick a storyline, grab a drink, and enjoy the chaos.
  • This open thread is yours—just keep it fun and respectful.

Because hockey’s better when it’s shared. And this time of year? It’s everything.
Let’s go Devils. Let’s go hockey. Let’s go chaos.

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“Take the Lead” at Paper Mill Playhouse Is the High-Energy, Hip-Hop Meets Ballroom Dance Musical You Don’t Want to Miss This Spring in New Jersey

This crowd-thrilling musical at Millburn’s iconic Paper Mill Playhouse blends hip-hop, ballroom, Broadway talent, and a powerful message — perfect for a weekend culture fix that’ll leave you clapping in your seat.

Looking for a weekend plan that’s bursting with energy, inspiration, and a little bit of that Broadway magic? Look no further than Take the Lead, a bold and beautifully choreographed original musical lighting up the stage at Paper Mill Playhouse in Millburn, NJ — and it’s only here until April 27.

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Based on the 2006 film starring Antonio Banderas, Take the Lead brings a fresh and vibrant twist to the stage with a unique dance fusion that combines slick hip-hop footwork with classic ballroom elegance — and yes, it’s as fun to watch as it sounds.

At the musical’s premiere, the theater was electric. The crowd? Packed with high schoolers from across the area — about 1,000 free tickets were handed out to local students, and their energy filled the space. There were cheers, laughter, applause, and unfiltered joy as the talented cast spun, stomped, and grooved their way through a story that’s as meaningful as it is entertaining.

⭐ Broadway Talent, Big Moves, and Bigger Inspiration

This isn’t just another jukebox musical. The creative team behind Take the Lead reads like a who’s-who of theater choreography and performance:

  • Jennifer Weber (& Juliet) and Maria Torres (So You Think You Can Dance) deliver show-stopping choreography that blends street style with old-school formality in a totally fresh way.
  • The cast features powerhouse performers like:
    • Adrienne Bailon-Houghton (formerly of 3LW and The Cheetah Girls)
    • Vincent Jamal Hooper (Hamilton, The Lion King)
    • Savy Jackson (Bad Cinderella)
    • Tam Mutu (Moulin Rouge! The Musical)
    • Matthew Risch (Modern Family, How to Get Away With Murder)

But Take the Lead is more than just flash and flair — at its heart, it’s a story about transformation through the arts.

💃 The Real Story Behind the Musical

Take the Lead is inspired by the true story of Pierre Dulaine, a professional ballroom dancer who brought his passion into NYC public schools, teaching dance as a tool for building confidence, self-respect, and unity among young students. His Dancing Classrooms program has since touched the lives of more than 700,000 students around the world.

At the premiere, Dulaine himself received a standing ovation — a reminder that dance can truly be life-changing.

🎟️ Want to See It? Here’s How to Make It Happen

If this sounds like your kind of weekend outing, Paper Mill Playhouse is making it easier than ever to see the show. They’ve rolled out several budget-friendly ticket options:

  • $20 Student Tickets
  • $30 Under-30 Tickets
  • Discounts for veterans, military personnel, educators, first responders, and individuals in state-assistance programs.

Whether you’re planning a night out with friends, a date night, or an inspiring family outing, this is the kind of theater experience that sticks with you. Tickets are available at papermill.org — but don’t wait too long. With buzz building and the final show on April 27, seats are sure to go fast.

📍 Make It a Whole Millburn Day

Located in charming downtown Millburn, Paper Mill Playhouse is steps from cozy cafés, cool restaurants, and boutique shops. It’s the perfect town to grab a bite before or after the show — or stroll through the spring air and soak in that downtown New Jersey charm.

🎬 Bottom Line: Take the Lead is the show to catch this spring. High-octane dance, killer performances, and an inspiring true story all come together in a show that’s just as entertaining for teens as it is for grown-up theater lovers. Don’t miss your chance to see this blend of hip-hop and ballroom brilliance while it’s still lighting up the Paper Mill stage.

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Your Weekend Weather Update for New Jersey: Mild, Breezy Days Ahead with Plenty of Sunshine and Warmer Temps

Spring’s here, and it’s feeling great! Here’s what to expect this weekend in New Jersey, plus a sneak peek at the week ahead.

If you’ve been waiting for that perfect spring weekend weather to really kick in — you’re in luck! This weekend, New Jersey is about to enjoy some mild, breezy, and beautiful weather, with a few more warm days ahead.

Here’s the rundown on what to expect for Saturday, Sunday, and the days beyond:

Saturday, April 19: Sun, Clouds, and Warm Temps

Get ready for a hotter Saturday! Many areas across New Jersey (away from the coast) will see temperatures soar to the low 80s, while coastal spots can expect the mid-70s. It’s a great day to enjoy outdoor activities, whether you’re hitting the parks, walking along the shore, or relaxing in your backyard.

The skies will feature a mix of sun and clouds, with a bit of breeze coming from the south and southwest. You’ll probably feel that spring pollen making its presence known — so if you’re sensitive, make sure to grab your allergy meds.

Overnight temperatures will drop to 50-60°F, with northern and central areas on the cooler end of the spectrum. There’s also a slight chance of a shower overnight, especially in the northern and central parts of the state, so keep an umbrella handy just in case!

Sunday, April 20: A Slight Cool Down with Pleasant Afternoon Skies

Sunday will be a more relaxed day with highs in the mid-to-upper 60s. Expect morning clouds that will clear up as the day goes on, giving way to more sunshine. It should stay dry, with no rain expected — perfect weather for outdoor brunches, hikes, or enjoying some time at your favorite local café.

The breeze will be light and out of the northwest, which will keep things feeling fresh, but without the strong winds you felt on Saturday. Overnight, temperatures will dip into the 40s and 50s, so you might want to grab an extra blanket for a cozy night.

Next Week (April 21-25): Sunshine and Temperatures in the 70s — Finally, Warmth!

Looking ahead to next week, it’s looking like we’ve officially passed the chilly days of early spring. Expect temperatures to hover around 70°F every day with a few fluctuations here and there. Inland spots could see highs pushing 75°F, while coastal areas will stay a bit cooler in the mid-60s. But hey, no complaints here — those are pretty ideal spring conditions!

Even though we’ll be basking in warm weather, be prepared for the occasional spring showers or thunderstorms, especially mid-week. But overall, we’re in for a great stretch of pleasant, warm days.

A Quick Recap:

  • Saturday: Highs in the 80s (except coastal areas, mid-70s), breezy, mixed sun and clouds.
  • Sunday: Highs in the 60s, morning clouds giving way to afternoon sun, light northwest winds.
  • Next Week: Temps in the 70s, with occasional spring showers.

Stay Prepared with Our Premium Services!

Whether you’re planning an outdoor weekend or need detailed forecasts for your business, don’t forget to check out KABOOM Club for ad-free content, insider forecast discussions, and early weather updates. For those in industries like landscaping, construction, or snow plowing, be sure to sign up for My Pocket Meteorologist (MPM) for hyper-local alerts tailored to your needs.

So there you have it! The weather’s warming up, and it’s the perfect time to get out there and enjoy everything New Jersey has to offer. Stay safe, enjoy your weekend, and keep your fingers crossed for sunshine all week long!

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Explore New Jersey Homebuyers Are Some of America’s Best Negotiators — Here’s How Much Money Locals Are Saving on Homes in 2025’s Competitive Market

New research reveals that New Jersey buyers are flexing serious negotiation skills — and saving big time — even as home prices continue to climb.

If you’ve been house hunting in the Garden State recently, you already know it’s not for the faint of heart. Inventory is tight, mortgage rates are unpredictable, and that dream backyard might come with a hefty price tag. But here’s something to smile about — New Jersey homebuyers are out-negotiating most of the country, and walking away with real savings in their pockets.

According to new data from AgentAdvice.com, buyers in New Jersey are ranked among the top negotiators in the entire U.S., coming in fourth for the most money saved through savvy deal-making before closing the deal.

Let’s break it down…

💰 Home Prices Are Up — But So Are Smart Buyer Strategies

Over the last 18 months, home prices across New Jersey have jumped by 12.5%, and it’s not just in one region. From suburban Cape May homes to Bergen County colonials, the market has tightened, and prices have followed.

One of the main reasons? Low inventory. Many homeowners who locked in historically low mortgage rates over the past few years are choosing to sit tight rather than face today’s elevated interest rates. That’s creating an imbalance — high demand, low supply — which is always a recipe for rising costs.

🏆 How New Jersey Buyers Are Winning the Housing Game

Despite these challenges, New Jersey buyers aren’t backing down. Agent Advice’s nationwide survey of 3,000 recent homebuyers found that more than half (54%) walked away from a deal when sellers wouldn’t budge on price.

That determination paid off.

Buyers in the Garden State are saving an average of $19,634 per home purchase, simply by negotiating before they signed the dotted line. With the average New Jersey home listing at $503,432, knocking nearly $20K off the final price is no small feat — that’s a new roof, a kitchen upgrade, or a solid jump-start on future mortgage payments.

🏠 Why This Matters for 2025 Buyers

If you’re thinking about buying in 2025 — or just getting started on the home hunt — here’s the takeaway: know your worth, know the market, and don’t be afraid to negotiate. Even in a seller-friendly environment, buyers still have leverage, especially when they’re informed, patient, and ready to walk away if the deal doesn’t feel right.

Whether you’re a first-time buyer in Hoboken or trading up in Cherry Hill, local agents say the best strategy is to be clear on your budget, do your research, and stay firm on your goals. With a little strategy and a lot of patience, savings are absolutely still on the table.

🛍️ Make a Weekend Out of It

Looking for a fun (and productive) weekend idea? Take a trip to explore neighborhoods you’re interested in — and check out nearby farmer’s markets, coffee shops, and local boutiques. Whether you’re browsing open houses or just gathering inspiration, it’s a great way to get a feel for a potential home base.

Plus, spring weekends in New Jersey were made for strolling and dreaming big.

📝 Final Thoughts

Sure, the housing market is tough — but New Jersey buyers are tougher. In a state known for its hustle and heart, it’s no surprise that locals are showing the rest of the country how to negotiate like pros. So if you’re ready to dive into home buying, bring your A-game. Because in the Garden State, we don’t just buy homes — we make deals.

Want us to round up the best neighborhoods to buy in this spring? Or need a local agent rec? We’ve got you. Drop us a message or stay tuned for next week’s Explore New Jersey Weekend spotlight.

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Explore South Jersey Phillies Update: Bryson Stott’s Journey from Jersey Shore to Leading Off for the Phillies

CHERRY HILL, NJ —The Philadelphia Phillies’ recent lineup changes have been paying dividends, particularly with Bryson Stott’s move to the leadoff spot. This strategic shift has sparked discussions about Stott’s development and his journey through the Phillies’ minor league system, including his time with the Jersey Shore BlueClaws.​

⚾ Bryson Stott’s Path to the Majors

Stott’s professional career began with the Phillies selecting him as the 14th overall pick in the 2019 MLB Draft. He quickly advanced through the minor leagues, starting with the Gulf Coast League Phillies and the Williamsport Crosscutters. In June 2021, he was promoted to the Jersey Shore BlueClaws, where he showcased his skills, hitting .288 with five home runs and a team-leading .453 on-base percentage in just a month before moving up to Double-A Reading. ​Wikipedia+1Wikipedia+1MLB.com

🧢 A Local Hero in South Jersey

During his time with the BlueClaws, Stott became a fan favorite. His performance on the field and his approachable demeanor off it endeared him to the South Jersey community. The BlueClaws recognized his impact by hosting a “Made the Phillies” bobblehead night in his honor on July 6, 2024, giving fans a memento to celebrate his rise to the majors. ​MLB.com

🔄 The Leadoff Change and Its Impact

Under manager Rob Thomson’s new lineup strategy, Stott has been positioned at the top of the order, followed by Trea Turner and Bryce Harper, with Kyle Schwarber hitting fourth. This adjustment aims to leverage Stott’s on-base skills and speed, setting the stage for power hitters like Harper. The early results have been promising, with Stott contributing to the team’s offensive momentum.​

📅 Phillies Weekend Schedule

Fans eager to see Stott and the Phillies in action can catch the team this weekend:​

  • Saturday, April 19, 2025: Marlins @ Phillies at 10:05 AM PDT​
  • Sunday, April 20, 2025: Marlins @ Phillies at 10:35 AM PDT​

These games provide an opportunity to witness the Phillies’ revamped lineup and Stott’s continued development at the major league level.​

Bryson Stott’s journey from the Jersey Shore BlueClaws to becoming a key player for the Phillies highlights the importance of the minor league system in developing talent. His story serves as an inspiration for aspiring players and a point of pride for South Jersey baseball fans.

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New Jersey Attorney General Sues Discord for Deceptive Practices Endangering Children – What It Means for Parents, Teens, and Online Safety

TRENTON, NJ — In a significant legal action aimed at protecting children online, New Jersey Attorney General Matthew J. Platkin has filed a lawsuit against Discord, the popular messaging platform, accusing the company of deceptive and unconscionable business practices that jeopardize the safety of young users. The lawsuit, filed on April 17, 2025, follows a multiyear investigation by the New Jersey Division of Consumer Affairs and alleges that Discord’s safety features are insufficient and easily bypassed, exposing children to potential harm. ​WIRED+2People.com+2The Verge+2

🚨 Allegations Against Discord

The lawsuit claims that Discord misrepresented its safety controls, particularly concerning direct messaging features, which purported to filter inappropriate content aimed at children. Despite prohibiting users under 13, Discord allegedly failed to adequately protect young users from predators and explicit content, enabling criminal activities such as sexual exploitation and sextortion. ​People.com+1WIRED+1

Specific criticisms include:​

  • Weak Age Verification: Discord’s age verification process reportedly relies on users entering their birthdate, a method that can be easily circumvented.​The Verge
  • Inadequate Messaging Filters: The app’s default settings allegedly allow children to receive unmonitored messages from friends, increasing exposure to inappropriate content.​The Verge
  • Lack of Robust Safety Features: Despite claims of enhanced safety measures, the lawsuit argues that Discord’s protections are inconsistent and insufficient compared to those implemented in other countries. ​WIRED

🛡️ Broader Implications for Online Safety

This legal action is part of a broader effort by New Jersey to hold social media platforms accountable for the safety of young users. Previously, Attorney General Platkin has led lawsuits against other tech giants, including TikTok and Meta, for practices that allegedly harm the mental health and safety of children and teens. ​New Jersey Office of Attorney General+1WIRED+1New Jersey Office of Attorney General+3New Jersey Office of Attorney General+3New Jersey Office of Attorney General+3

The state’s commitment to protecting children online is reflected in its ongoing initiatives to enforce consumer protection laws and ensure that digital platforms uphold their promises regarding user safety. ​New Jersey Office of Attorney General

⚖️ Discord’s Response

In response to the lawsuit, Discord has denied the allegations, asserting its commitment to user safety and expressing surprise at the legal action. The company maintains that it is dedicated to providing a safe environment for its users and is reviewing the lawsuit to determine the appropriate course of action. ​People.com

📌 What This Means for Parents and Guardians

For parents and guardians in New Jersey and beyond, this lawsuit underscores the importance of actively monitoring children’s online activities. It’s crucial to:

  • Review and Adjust Privacy Settings: Regularly check and update the privacy settings on all digital platforms your child uses.​
  • Educate About Online Safety: Discuss the potential risks of online interactions and encourage open communication about their digital experiences.​
  • Utilize Parental Controls: Implement parental control tools and apps to help manage and monitor your child’s online presence.​

As the legal proceedings unfold, this case may set a precedent for how social media platforms are held accountable for the safety of their youngest users.​

Stay Informed: For updates on this case and other child safety initiatives, visit the New Jersey Office of Attorney General’s website.​New Jersey Office of Attorney General

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Explore New Jersey Boutiques: Where to Shop for Stylish Baby Clothes and Cool Baby Gifts in NJ – The Ultimate Guide to the Best Baby Boutiques Across North, Central, and South Jersey for Unique Finds, Insta-Worthy Outfits, and Registry Must-Haves

Whether you’re nesting for a newborn, chasing a toddler through a boutique, looking for the perfect baby shower gift, or curating a next-level registry with personality — it’s time to skip the big-box aisles and shop local. Lucky for us, New Jersey is packed with incredible baby boutiques that are as adorable as the tiny outfits they sell.

From vintage-inspired onesies in Montclair to sustainable toy finds in Princeton to cozy, curated setups in Haddonfield — these are the kind of shops that make you want to linger. They’re well-designed, well-stocked, and often independently owned by parents who know the drill.

And yes, many of these spots are nestled in walkable downtowns or next to coffee shops, so make it a full-on baby-friendly (or solo, treat-yourself) Explore New Jersey Weekend kind of day.

🧸 North Jersey Baby Boutiques

📍 Over the Moon – Montclair, NJ

Vibe: Whimsical, curated, and beautiful.
Why Go: This is the Montclair mom’s dream shop — modern baby clothes, unique toys, nursery décor, and a section of thoughtful books and gear. Bonus: they host events like story time and pop-ups.
While You’re There: Walk Bloomfield Ave, grab coffee at Paper Plane, and hit Watchung Booksellers for storybooks.

📍 Baby Crossing – Englewood, NJ

Vibe: Boutique with an edge of glam.
Why Go: They’ve been around for decades for a reason — Baby Crossing stocks high-end European brands, personalized items, and outfit-after-outfit of serious baby fashion.
While You’re There: Pop into Tenafly Nature Center nearby or grab lunch in downtown Englewood.

📍 Bundle of Joy Baby Boutique – Hoboken, NJ

Vibe: Urban chic, very registry-friendly.
Why Go: Tons of clothing brands that blend fashion with function. Great for last-minute gifts or starting a registry that stands out from the crowd.
While You’re There: Grab a treat at Carlo’s Bakery (yeah, that one), stroll Sinatra Park with a view.

🍼 Central Jersey Baby Boutiques

📍 Sprout – Princeton, NJ

Vibe: Eco-conscious, earthy, upscale.
Why Go: Sustainable everything: organic cotton clothes, non-toxic toys, natural baby care. Their toy and gift section is standout.
While You’re There: Walk Palmer Square, grab an almond croissant at Terra Momo, or hit up the Princeton Art Museum.

📍 The Little Play Co. – Red Bank, NJ

Vibe: Modern play space meets boutique.
Why Go: It’s a two-in-one: a cool baby store and an indoor play space with open play, classes, and events. Shopping with littles just got way easier.
While You’re There: Red Bank is adorable. Walk the town, get a coffee at Rook, and stop by Jay & Silent Bob’s Secret Stash if you’re into that sort of thing.

📍 Pipsqueak Boutique – Metuchen, NJ

Vibe: Sweet, friendly, very giftable.
Why Go: Personalized baby blankets, custom embroidery, first birthday outfits — it’s the kind of place where they’ll wrap your gift like it came from Pinterest.
While You’re There: Metuchen’s downtown has really leveled up — make time for a stop at Cai’s Café or the Metuchen Farmers Market (seasonal).

🧦 South Jersey Baby Boutiques

📍 Happy Baby Boutique – Haddonfield, NJ

Vibe: Cozy, community-first, joyful.
Why Go: Baby gear, toys, books, and adorable clothing with rotating new finds. Plus, the owner hosts classes and new parent events in-store.
While You’re There: Haddonfield is the Hallmark movie set of NJ towns — boutique-hop, get brunch, and snap pics by Kings Highway.

📍 Bellies to Babies – Turnersville, NJ

Vibe: Registry central.
Why Go: They’ve got everything from strollers to cribs to stylish newborn outfits. Very popular with parents building registries who want to skip the big chains.
While You’re There: Nearby Deptford Mall has food options and other kid-friendly spots for errands in one go.

📍 Little Peeps Boutique – Cape May, NJ

Vibe: Beachy, adorable, laid-back.
Why Go: Seasonal must-visits! Think sun hats, nautical-themed outfits, and beachy toys — perfect for summer babies.
While You’re There: It’s Cape May. Do everything. Stroll the boardwalk, grab fudge, or hit the beach.

👗 Don’t Sleep on These Extras:

  • Make it a day: Many of these baby boutiques are in downtowns with good coffee, food, and playgrounds nearby.
  • Perfect for baby showers: If you’re the friend who shows up with the best gift, this list is your cheat code.
  • Build a better registry: Mix in some boutique items with your big-box staples — it’ll make your list more personal and way more fun.
  • Check social: Most of these stores post new drops, restocks, and deals on Instagram first.

🎉 Explore New Jersey Weekend Tip:

Make it a “Baby Crawl.” Pick a region, hit two or three shops, grab lunch in between, and turn what could’ve been an online-shopping slog into an actual cute outing. If you’re expecting or gifting, it’ll make the whole thing feel realer, better, and a lot more fun.

Whether you’re prepping for your first baby, shopping for someone else’s, or just feel like touching tiny clothes and smiling for an hour — these New Jersey baby boutiques are full of charm, quality, and surprising finds. You don’t have to fly to Brooklyn or Philly to get stylish, thoughtful baby gear. It’s right here.