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The 2025 IIHF World Championships in Sweden and Denmark showcased the international prowess of several New Jersey Devils players

The 2025 IIHF World Championships in Sweden and Denmark showcased the international prowess of several New Jersey Devils players

Timo Meier: Offensive Dynamo for Switzerland

Timo Meier continued his impressive form from the NHL playoffs into the international arena, leading Switzerland’s offense with 10 points (3 goals, 7 assists) over 11 games and a remarkable +11 rating. His physical play and scoring ability were instrumental in Switzerland’s journey to the silver medal, marking their second consecutive runner-up finish at the World Championships.

Jonas Siegenthaler: Defensive Pillar

Despite concerns about his fitness, Jonas Siegenthaler proved to be a cornerstone of Switzerland’s defense. Over 9 games, he contributed 1 goal and 3 assists, maintaining a solid +6 rating. His defensive acumen was evident throughout the tournament, playing a crucial role in Switzerland’s path to the final.

Nico Hischier: Leadership Amidst Adversity

Team captain Nico Hischier made a significant impact in the early stages of the tournament, recording 2 goals and 1 assist in 4 games with a +3 rating. Unfortunately, a lower-body injury curtailed his participation, but his leadership and early contributions were vital to Switzerland’s success.

Jacob Markström: Sweden’s Steadfast Goaltender

Representing Sweden, Jacob Markström delivered consistent performances between the pipes. In 5 games, he achieved a 4-0-1 record, a 2.14 goals-against average, and a .893 save percentage, including two shutouts. His efforts were key in securing Sweden’s bronze medal finish.

Lenni Hämeenaho: Promising Prospect for Finland

Prospect Lenni Hämeenaho showcased his potential with Finland, tallying 1 goal and 3 assists over 8 games with a +4 rating. His performance highlighted his readiness for higher levels of competition and provided valuable experience on the international stage.

The participation of these New Jersey Devils players in the 2025 IIHF World Championships not only brought them individual accolades but also underscored the depth and talent within the organization. Their international experiences are poised to enrich the team’s dynamics in the upcoming NHL season.

For more insights into the New Jersey Devils’ players and their achievements, visit our dedicated page: New Jersey Devils.

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Get Ready for Trivia, Taps & Team Spirit at Buena Connection Brewing Co – June 3!

Calling all quiz lovers, hop heads, and folks just looking for a great night out in South Jersey— it’s time to mark your calendar. Buena Connection Brewing Company is kicking off summer with their very first TRIVIA NIGHT on Tuesday, June 3, 2025, and trust us—this is one event you won’t want to miss.

🧠🍻 Brews meet brainpower at Buena 🍻🧠

Hosted by none other than legendary bartender Ryan, Trivia Night promises to be a high-energy evening packed with laughter, local flavor, and just the right amount of friendly competition. Whether you’re the reigning champ of random facts or you just want an excuse to grab a flight of craft beer with your crew, Buena Connection is where it’s all going down.

Event Details:

📍 Where: Buena Connection Brewing Co
📅 When: Tuesday, June 3, 2025
🕡 Time: 6:30 PM – 8:30 PM
🎁 What’s at stake? PRIZES for the winning team!

RSVP or learn more here

What Makes Trivia Night at Buena Connection So Special?

Buena Connection Brewing Company isn’t your average taproom. Family-owned and proudly rooted in a rich cultural mix—Colombian, Irish, French, American, and Italian—this brewery has quickly become a heartbeat of Buena, NJ.

They’re not just serving up beautifully crafted beers—they’re creating an experience. With a taproom designed for connection and community, every event feels like a local gathering of old friends (even if you’re walking in for the first time). Trivia Night adds a whole new layer to the experience, blending the brewery’s signature charm with brain-teasing fun.

Expect:

  • A rotating menu of handcrafted beers made with love and legacy
  • Cozy, welcoming vibes where locals and newcomers alike feel at home
  • Thoughtfully curated trivia rounds (courtesy of Ryan) to keep you guessing and grinning
  • An atmosphere that celebrates culture, creativity, and community

Pro Tips for Trivia Night:

  • 🍻 Arrive early to grab a seat and a cold one before the questions start flying
  • 🧑‍🤝‍🧑 Form your dream team (the more random knowledge, the better!)
  • 🎉 Bring your A-game—there are real prizes on the line
  • 😄 Most importantly: Have fun and soak in the good vibes

Whether you’re a trivia junkie or just looking for a Tuesday night with personality, this is a perfect excuse to unplug, engage, and raise a glass to local flavor and friendly competition.

Let the games begin, Buena-style.
See you June 3 at 6:30 PM!

👉 Full details and directions here

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The Sandy Mack Experience to Debut at New Jersey International Film Festival

There’s a heartbeat to Asbury Park that’s impossible to ignore — a rhythm that pulses through the boardwalk, seeps out of barroom stages, and lives in the souls of the musicians who make it one of the most iconic music towns in America. And if you’ve spent any time in the local scene, chances are you’ve felt the influence of Sandy Mack.

Now, the life and legacy of this Jersey Shore music staple is hitting the big screen. The Sandy Mack Experience, a new documentary directed by Sarah Ann McCuiston and Henry Donohue Frost, will premiere at the New Jersey International Film Festival, shining a long-overdue spotlight on the man who has helped keep Asbury Park’s music culture vibrant and alive for decades.

Sandy Mack isn’t your average musician — and this isn’t your average music doc. This film dives deep into the soulful, spontaneous, and utterly electric spirit of a man who doesn’t just play music — he creates community through it. Known for organizing open jams that have become sacred rituals for local players, Sandy has cultivated a space where artists of all backgrounds and styles come together to collaborate, improvise, and just play.

The documentary tells more than just Sandy’s story — it’s a love letter to the Asbury scene itself. Through behind-the-scenes footage, emotional interviews, and, of course, unforgettable live moments, The Sandy Mack Experience captures what makes this corner of New Jersey so unique. It’s about more than chords and melodies; it’s about connection, history, and the cultural fabric that makes Asbury Park a destination for music lovers far and wide.

Sarah Ann McCuiston — Sandy’s daughter — brings a personal lens to the project, crafting a narrative that’s as intimate as it is informative. Alongside co-director Henry Donohue Frost, she helps the audience see not just the man on the stage, but the father, the friend, and the quiet force behind the scenes that has made so many musical moments possible.

Whether you’ve seen Sandy live a hundred times or are just discovering his story, this documentary is a must-watch. It’s also a chance to celebrate New Jersey’s ongoing legacy as a hotbed for talent, soul, and raw artistic energy.

Don’t miss this one-of-a-kind premiere at the New Jersey International Film Festival — and if you’re curious about where to catch more live sounds across the state, check out Explore New Jersey’s music guide. You’ll find everything from local legends to rising stars performing in venues large and small, from Asbury to Atlantic City and everywhere in between.

Because in Jersey, music isn’t just background noise — it’s part of who we are.

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Beyoncé Lassoed East Rutherford with Cowboy Carter Magic at MetLife Stadium

Explore New Jersey | Explore live music across the Garden State

Let’s get one thing straight: when Beyoncé rides into town, it’s not just a concert — it’s a cultural shift. The Cowboy Carter Tour opened its five-night East Rutherford run on Thursday, May 22 at MetLife Stadium, and it was nothing short of a barn-burning, rhinestone-dusted spectacle. A three-hour blend of country, soul, gospel, pop, history, and show-stopping visuals — Beyoncé didn’t just perform. She redefined the stage beneath her.

From the moment she stepped into the spotlight, Beyoncé proved this wasn’t your average country concert. It was something more ambitious, more pointed — a reclamation. Cowboy Carter, both the album and the tour, peels back the layers of American music and spotlights the Black roots of country, from spirituals and field songs to the early blues that laid the foundation. With elegance and electric defiance, Beyoncé used her voice and vision to remind the world who really planted the seeds of this genre.

“They used to say I spoke too country,” she sang on “American Requiem,” the opening track — a line that doubled as a challenge and a mission statement.

A Musical Rodeo of Heart and Grit

Beyoncé’s setlist pulled from across eras, styles, and sounds, showcasing her signature ability to make the past feel like the future. Her take on The Beatles’ “Blackbird” — a gentle, goosebump-inducing tribute “to all the beautiful Blackbirds who came before me and opened the doors for me” — brought the crowd to a hush. Then came her spirited rendition of Dolly Parton’s “Jolene,” reimagined with the kind of bite and backbone only Beyoncé could deliver.

The music was anchored by a powerhouse band and an army of backup singers who turned every chorus into a movement. On “Flamenco,” they created a rich, layered world behind her, while new cuts like “Desert Eagle” and “Levii’s Jeans” pulsed with a modern country swagger that felt as rooted as it was rebellious.

Sparkle, Stomp, and Southern Steel

This wasn’t just a concert for the ears — it was a feast for the eyes. Beyoncé brought the full weight of her performance artillery: a rotating lineup of rhinestone cowgirl outfits, glittering chaps, and more cowboy hats than the state of Texas. From a gold mechanical bull to a pickup truck with horns to a late-model sedan suspended over the audience, the staging leaned into country iconography while completely rewriting it.

And yes, she brought the family. Daughters Blue Ivy and Rumi joined her on stage, adding heart to a show already bursting with soul. The energy was high, the choreography relentless, and the visuals cinematic. Beyoncé even rode a giant horseshoe over the crowd — because of course she did.

A Reclamation, a Revelation

It wasn’t all boots and basslines. Throughout the night, Beyoncé threaded in a series of video vignettes that tackled ideas of identity, ownership, and American history — all wrapped in the tour’s central theme: the “reclamation of America.” It was powerful. It was necessary. And it hit different delivered with Beyoncé’s charisma and precision.

In a world often afraid to look back, Beyoncé is unafraid to lead the charge. Cowboy Carter isn’t just a genre-bending body of work — it’s an excavation. A reintroduction. A declaration.

And the crowd at MetLife? They felt it.

What’s Next in East Rutherford

Night one of the Cowboy Carter Tour at MetLife Stadium was just the beginning. Beyoncé’s Jersey takeover continued with a show on May 24 and shows on May 25, 28, and 29 — so there’s still time to get in on this history-making tour. Bring your hat, bring your heart, and prepare to be moved.

📍Want more music magic across the Garden State? Explore New Jersey’s live music scene.

Beyoncé MetLife Stadium Setlist – Cowboy Carter Tour, May 22

  1. American Requiem
  2. Blackbird
  3. The Star-Spangled Banner
  4. Freedom
  5. Ya Ya / Why Don’t You Love Me
  6. Oh Louisiana
  7. America Has a Problem
  8. Spaghetti
  9. Formation
  10. My House
  11. Diva
  12. Alligator Tears
  13. Just for Fun
  14. Protector
  15. Flamenco
  16. Desert Eagle
  17. Riverdance
  18. II Hands II Heaven II
  19. Tyrant
  20. Thique
  21. Levii’s Jeans
  22. Sweet Honey Buckiin’ / Pure Honey / Summer Renaissance
  23. Texas Hold ‘Em
  24. Crazy in Love
  25. Single Ladies (Put a Ring on It)
  26. Love on Top
  27. Irreplaceable
  28. If I Were A Boy
  29. Jolene
  30. Daddy Lessons
  31. Bodyguard
  32. II Most Wanted
  33. Cuff It
  34. Heated
  35. Before I Let Go
  36. Daughter
  37. Renaissance
  38. I’m That Girl
  39. Cozy
  40. Alien Superstar
  41. 16 Carriages
  42. Amen
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What to Expect from the Devils in the 2025 NHL Draft

The 2025 NHL Draft might not begin with a bang for the New Jersey Devils, but that doesn’t mean it won’t end with one.

New Jersey won’t be making noise in the first round this year—they dealt their first-round pick to Calgary in the Jacob Markstrom trade—but that doesn’t mean Devils GM Tom Fitzgerald is heading into the draft empty-handed. Far from it. Despite the absence of a first-rounder, the Devils still have six total selections to work with, including two picks in the second round. Thanks to a flurry of strategic trades, only half of New Jersey’s picks in 2025 actually originated with the Devils themselves. The rest? Fitzgerald magic.

Want the full breakdown of where each pick lands? You can find the complete list of the Devils’ 2025 NHL Draft picks right here.

Building Around the Core

The Devils are no strangers to draft-day success. Seven of their current lineup regulars are homegrown products—a solid number, and right around league average. But that figure doesn’t even count names like Seamus Casey, Lenni Hameenaho, and Arseni Gritsyuk, all recent Devils draft picks poised to make a big splash next season.

While some teams lean heavily on trades or free agency to shape their rosters, the Devils have consistently looked to the draft to build a sustainable foundation. Fitzgerald has proven time and again that he’s not afraid to dig deep to find value in the mid-to-late rounds—and this year could be another strong opportunity to add to the pipeline.

2025 Draft Picks on Deck

Here’s what the Devils are currently working with in the 2025 NHL Draft:

  • Second Round, Pick 50
  • Second Round, Pick 62–64
    (Dependent on how far the Edmonton Oilers go in the playoffs—thanks to the John Marino trade to Utah.)
  • Third Round, Pick 90
    (Acquired in the trade that sent Akira Schmid and Alexander Holtz to Vegas.)
  • Fourth Round, Pick 114
  • Sixth Round, Pick 161
  • Sixth Round, Pick 178
    (Obtained via a trade-back with Chicago during the 2024 Draft.)

Six picks. Two in the second round. Three trades. One team looking to stock up on future contributors.

Why No First-Rounder?

The absence of a first-round pick comes down to one name: Jacob Markstrom. The veteran netminder came to New Jersey in a deal that sent the Devils’ 2025 first-round pick to Calgary, along with defenseman Kevin Bahl. The pick was top-10 protected, but since the Devils finished with the 18th-overall selection, it officially transferred to the Flames.

For New Jersey, the trade was less about mortgaging the future and more about solving a long-standing problem in the crease. And with Markstrom in town, the Devils finally have the kind of stability in net that’s eluded them for years.

The Second-Round Sweet Spot

The last time New Jersey went without a first-round pick? They walked away with Lenni Hameenaho in the second round—a player now projected to be a long-term contributor. They also picked Cam Squires in the fourth, a forward who’s already turning heads as a potential NHLer.

This year’s second round holds similar potential, especially with two shots at it. The pick acquired from the Oilers could range from 62 to 64 overall depending on Edmonton’s playoff fate, and it’s those picks just outside the top 60 where savvy organizations find hidden gems. This is where the Devils’ scouts and development team really go to work.

Track Record of Draft Success

According to league-wide analysis, the Devils currently sit around 15th in draft efficiency—solid middle of the pack. Around 22% of their picks have gone on to play at least 200 NHL games. That number is likely to climb as players like Simon Nemec, Mikhail Yegorov, and Anton Silayev continue to develop.

Fitzgerald has proven time and again that even when the Devils aren’t in the spotlight, they’re still quietly making moves that shape the roster for years to come. Whether it’s a second-round steal or a sixth-round diamond in the rough, New Jersey’s front office knows how to find value where others might overlook it.

Eyes on the Future

With a young core already in place—Jack Hughes, Nico Hischier, Dawson Mercer, and Luke Hughes to name just a few—the Devils aren’t in a rebuild. They’re in reload mode. This year’s draft gives them another opportunity to do just that. With six picks and a reputation for drafting well, don’t be surprised if another key piece of the next great Devils team is added in one of those rounds.

For those following every move, you can stay updated with the full list of Devils 2025 NHL Draft picks here.

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Upcoming Political Events and Community Engagement Opportunities – Meet, Engage, and Shape the Future – Upcoming Political Events in New Jersey

Upcoming Political Events in New Jersey: Meet, Engage, and Shape the Future

New Jersey residents have a unique opportunity to directly connect with political candidates and elected officials through a range of upcoming events. From grassroots canvassing to formal meetings with public officials, these events offer invaluable platforms for civic engagement and active participation in the democratic process.

Here’s a look at key events—organized by date—that invite you to get involved and make your voice heard:

🗓️ Friday, May 23 | 4:00 PM

Steven Fulop for Governor: Mount Laurel & Surrounding Towns Canvassing
📍 Mount Laurel, NJ and nearby communities

Join volunteers supporting Jersey City Mayor Steven Fulop’s gubernatorial campaign as they canvass across Mount Laurel and surrounding towns. This grassroots effort focuses on door-to-door conversations to share campaign goals, discuss pressing local issues, and encourage voter turnout. Whether you’re a first-time canvasser or a seasoned volunteer, your participation helps build momentum in a pivotal election year.

🗓️ Saturday, May 24 | 10:00 AM

Steven Fulop for Governor: Medford Canvassing with Eddie Freeman for Assembly
📍 Medford, NJ

Supporters of gubernatorial candidate Steven Fulop and Assembly candidate Eddie Freeman are teaming up for a canvassing push in Medford. Volunteers will engage with residents, share campaign materials, and discuss how each candidate plans to address statewide and district-level issues. This event strengthens the connection between local and statewide races, showing how down-ballot participation drives broader change.

🗓️ Saturday, May 24 | 10:30 AM

Steven Fulop for Governor: South Jersey Canvassing
📍 Various South Jersey locations

Fulop’s campaign will simultaneously launch canvassing efforts across South Jersey. Volunteers will take to neighborhoods across the region to promote Fulop’s message and rally support. Participating in regional canvassing is a powerful way to broaden community awareness and boost voter education across multiple municipalities.

🗓️ Saturday, May 24 | 10:30 AM

Becky Holloway & Kevin Ryan for Assembly: Camden County Canvassing
📍 Various Camden County locations

Assembly candidates Becky Holloway and Kevin Ryan will host a county-wide canvassing event aimed at forging stronger ties with voters and sharing their vision for the region. By joining this event, you’ll help foster a dialogue around local policy priorities, community needs, and the role of responsive leadership.

🗓️ Saturday, May 24 | 5:00 PM

Steven Fulop for Governor: Marlton Meet & Greet
📍 Marlton, NJ (venue details available upon RSVP)

Later in the day, residents will have the chance to meet Steven Fulop in person at an informal gathering in Marlton. This meet-and-greet offers a relaxed environment for voters to ask questions, share concerns, and hear directly from the candidate about his plans for the state. Face-to-face interactions with candidates offer a unique and personal lens into their leadership style and priorities.

🗓️ Wednesday, June 19 | 12:00 PM

Camden County Commissioners Meeting
📍 520 Market Street, Camden, NJ 08102

The Camden County Board of Commissioners will hold a public meeting where community members can learn about current county initiatives, pose questions, and share feedback. Attending these official sessions helps keep citizens informed about local government operations and fosters transparency and accountability in policymaking.

🧭 Why Attend These Events?

These aren’t just campaign stops or government meetings—they’re opportunities for meaningful civic engagement. Attending gives you the chance to:

✔️ Connect directly with political candidates and public officials
✔️ Learn about local, state, and regional policy proposals
✔️ Ask questions, voice concerns, and advocate for your community
✔️ Be part of shaping a more responsive and inclusive New Jersey

Whether you’re passionate about education, the economy, public safety, or climate resilience, these events give you a seat at the table.

📢 Ready to get involved? Visit the Explore New Jersey Politics section for more events, resources, and ways to plug into your community’s future.

Stay informed. Stay engaged. Make your voice heard.

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Collingswood Teen to Stand Trial as Adult in Mount Ephraim Homicide Case

A South Jersey tragedy is moving forward in the courts with serious legal weight. A Collingswood teenager, 17-year-old Luke Humphrey, is being tried as an adult in connection with the death of 41-year-old Oron Carl “Snook” Beebe, Jr., a well-known and deeply rooted resident of Mount Ephraim.

The case, which has sent shockwaves through the community, centers around second-degree manslaughter charges stemming from a fatal incident in 2024. Humphrey appeared in Camden County Superior Court this week, where he was formally arraigned. As the legal process unfolds, it brings renewed focus to youth violence, the complexities of New Jersey’s juvenile justice system, and the grieving communities left behind in its wake.

A Devastating Loss in a Tight-Knit Town

Mount Ephraim isn’t just another pin on the South Jersey map—it’s a place where generations know each other by name. So when news broke that Oron Carl Beebe, affectionately known as “Snook,” had died as a result of an altercation involving a teenager, it hit home for many.

Friends, family, and neighbors remember Beebe as more than a victim—he was a father, a friend, and a fixture in the neighborhood. His passing has left behind unanswered questions and a community searching for peace and closure.

The Charges and the Courtroom Shift

Initially handled through the juvenile system, the charges against Humphrey have since been elevated to adult court—signaling the gravity with which prosecutors are approaching the case. According to the Camden County Prosecutor’s Office, the decision to try Humphrey as an adult was not made lightly, but was deemed necessary given the severity of the crime and its circumstances.

While second-degree manslaughter does not imply premeditation, it reflects a degree of recklessness or intent that ultimately resulted in another person’s death. If convicted, Humphrey could face significant prison time, marking a life-altering outcome for both families involved.

South Jersey Grapples with Youth Crime and Accountability

This case adds to a growing conversation across South Jersey about juvenile justice reform, public safety, and community responsibility. As towns from Camden to Cape May wrestle with these challenges, there is a growing demand for transparency, restorative justice practices, and better support systems for at-risk youth.

The transition of this case from juvenile to adult court has also reignited debates over when and how teens should be tried as adults. While some advocate for rehabilitation, others argue that accountability must match the consequences—especially when lives are lost.

For more stories, updates, and in-depth coverage from towns like Mount Ephraim, Collingswood, and throughout South Jersey, visit:
👉 ExploreNewJersey.org/South-Jersey

The Road Ahead: A Courtroom and a Community Await Answers

With the legal process now moving forward in Camden County Superior Court, both the Humphrey and Beebe families face an emotionally charged and difficult road ahead. Trials like this are rarely black and white—and South Jersey residents are watching closely, hoping for justice, healing, and meaningful dialogue around violence prevention and youth intervention.

In the months to come, this trial will not only determine one teen’s fate—it will also serve as a reflection of how our legal system, our schools, and our communities respond when tragedy strikes so close to home.

Stay with Explore New Jersey for ongoing coverage of this developing case and other major stories shaping life in South Jersey.

👉 More from South Jersey communities

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Tesla Supercharges Route 17 as Hackensack Becomes a Hub for EV Innovation

Tesla just hit the accelerator on New Jersey’s electric future.

In a major boost for one of the state’s busiest travel arteries, Tesla is expanding its Supercharger network right in the heart of Bergen County—on the well-trafficked Route 17 corridor in Hackensack. This move isn’t just a win for Tesla drivers—it’s a clear signal that New Jersey is accelerating into a new era of tech-forward transportation and sustainable infrastructure.

And it couldn’t come at a better time.

As electric vehicle adoption surges across the Garden State, drivers need more than just sleek cars—they need the ecosystem to power them. Tesla’s new Supercharger station answers that demand, planting high-speed, high-capacity EV fueling right where commuters, shoppers, and long-haulers need it most.

Hackensack: A Strategic Stop on the EV Superhighway

The Route 17 corridor is a vital stretch of northern New Jersey. Running through Hackensack, Paramus, and Mahwah, this artery sees tens of thousands of vehicles every day—and it’s fast becoming a magnet for EV investment.

By adding a Supercharger hub in Hackensack, Tesla isn’t just adding convenience. It’s adding confidence. Drivers can now travel this bustling route with the assurance of reliable, fast charging—whether they’re headed to the George Washington Bridge, upstate New York, or even further north into New England.

Plus, this location places Tesla in close proximity to major retail centers, corporate offices, and residential zones—making it easy for drivers to plug in while grabbing lunch, shopping at nearby outlets, or running errands.

Dive deeper into New Jersey’s fast-growing tech and business landscape here:
👉 ExploreNewJersey.org/Technology-Business

What This Means for New Jersey’s EV Future

The Hackensack expansion isn’t just about charging cars—it’s about charging up the state’s clean energy economy.

New Jersey is already pushing forward with policies that support electric vehicle adoption, renewable energy infrastructure, and smart transportation solutions. Tesla’s latest investment shows that private industry is taking notice—and taking action. This station will help reduce range anxiety, support zero-emission travel, and ease the transition from gas to electric in a region that sees some of the state’s heaviest traffic flow.

Even more importantly, the move adds jobs, raises property visibility, and helps Hackensack position itself as a regional player in New Jersey’s clean-tech transformation.

The Bigger Picture: Route 17 and Beyond

The Route 17 corridor has long been known for its retail strength, from iconic shopping centers to major car dealerships. But now it’s becoming a key player in the shift toward electrification.

Tesla’s presence could be just the beginning.

Expect to see more EV-related investments—charging networks, service centers, and even showrooms—as the corridor modernizes to meet 21st-century transportation needs. With municipalities like Hackensack already revamping downtown areas and embracing smart infrastructure, this new station is part of a broader movement to redefine the region’s economic identity.

More Than a Charger—A Sign of Momentum

Tesla’s latest Supercharger site on Route 17 isn’t just about convenience—it’s a sign that New Jersey is gaining real traction in the race to build a more sustainable, high-tech transportation network.

So, whether you’re a longtime Tesla owner, a curious commuter thinking about going electric, or a local business watching the tides of change—you’ll want to keep your eyes on Hackensack. The future of mobility just pulled into the lot.

Want more on how New Jersey is turning into a hotspot for clean tech and business innovation?
👉 ExploreNewJersey.org/Technology-Business

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New Jersey’s Next Big Pivot: Gottheimer’s Tech-Forward Vision and the Push for a Smarter Economy

New Jersey’s identity is rooted in innovation—from Thomas Edison’s Menlo Park laboratory to Bell Labs’ game-changing breakthroughs. Now, a new chapter is being written by leaders like Congressman Josh Gottheimer, who is bringing a bold, tech-focused platform to the state’s political and economic forefront.

In a time when New Jersey’s economic competitiveness is being tested by rising costs, talent flight, and outdated systems, Gottheimer is calling for a sweeping modernization of how the Garden State operates. And he’s not just talking about better Wi-Fi. He’s pushing for a full-scale revival powered by innovation, smarter tax policy, and next-generation public-private partnerships.

From Essex County Roots to Tech-Policy Trailblazer

Gottheimer’s journey into public service started in Essex County, but his resume is anything but typical. Before running for Congress, he worked on corporate strategy at Microsoft, focused on cloud computing, and even held roles at the FCC and Ford. He’s not just familiar with the tech world—he’s helped shape the national conversation around it. From blockchain to artificial intelligence, fintech to cybersecurity, Gottheimer’s name is on some of the most forward-thinking tech legislation of the last decade.

That background is now shaping his gubernatorial ambitions, as he outlines an economic agenda focused on tech innovation, job creation, and attracting high-skill talent.

Reviving New Jersey’s Innovation Economy

New Jersey isn’t short on assets. We’ve got proximity to major metros, world-class universities, deep infrastructure, and a long industrial legacy. But, as Gottheimer points out, the state is falling behind on tech development due to high corporate taxes, slow permitting processes, and limited coordination between the public and private sectors.

He wants to flip that script.

Gottheimer is proposing:

  • Cutting property and corporate taxes to make New Jersey more startup-friendly
  • Streamlining regulations to reduce red tape and fast-track innovation
  • Enhancing collaboration between universities and industry to attract federal research dollars
  • Modernizing fiber and digital infrastructure to support future-facing industries

The goal? Make New Jersey not just a place where businesses survive—but thrive in fields like AI, clean energy, biotech, and fintech.

If the state leans into its innovation potential, Gottheimer believes it can become the East Coast’s answer to Silicon Valley—one with better pizza.

Explore more about New Jersey’s technology and business landscape here:
👉 ExploreNewJersey.org/Technology-Business

A Culture Clash in Local Politics

While Gottheimer is aiming to uplift New Jersey’s future with vision and investment, some corners of the state are battling over ideology and identity. The town of Washington Township in Gloucester County is a prime example of how toxic politics have clouded local leadership.

Board of Education members Connie Baker and Patricia Blome recently received anonymous, hate-filled letters accusing them of dishonesty, drunkenness, and “pushing a Democratic agenda”—all under the forged return address of their own board president, Julie Kozempel. The letters were tracked back to Councilman Richard Bennett, the school board liaison at the time.

While no criminal charges have been filed, the incident underscores a troubling trend: school boards, meant to be non-partisan forums for education, have become battlegrounds for ideological warfare.

Kozempel called out the behavior as sexist and bullying:

“He’s a bully and should pick on someone his own size and leave us alone.”

Bennett, a Republican elected in 2021, has not responded to the allegations. But the episode has ignited calls for better conduct, more transparency, and renewed focus on what truly matters—educating the next generation.

What’s Next for New Jersey?

Between Gottheimer’s tech-driven roadmap and grassroots tensions surfacing in towns like Washington Township, the state finds itself at a crossroads.

Will New Jersey double down on its legacy of innovation and reform its economic engine for the 21st century? Or will it get lost in the noise of political distractions and internal friction?

The choice may come down to how seriously we take investment in future industries, how we treat our educators and public servants, and whether we are willing to embrace smart, scalable change.

New Jersey’s next era is being written now. Let’s make sure it’s powered by progress—not pettiness.

Illustration of family enjoying a crab feast

Flavor Meets Fresh: The Salmon Rice Bowl That’s Taking Over New Jersey Kitchens

Whether you’re meal-prepping for the week or pulling something together after a long day at work, a good salmon rice bowl hits all the right notes: quick, delicious, nutrient-packed, and easy to make your own.

And here in New Jersey—where global flavors meet local freshness—this dish is becoming a go-to favorite. It’s light but filling, simple but bold, and customizable for whatever’s in your fridge. Think of it as the perfect weeknight solution that doesn’t taste like a compromise.

Let’s dive into the bowl that’s redefining “fast food” in the Garden State.

🥢 Why the Salmon Rice Bowl Works in Every NJ Kitchen – A Jersey Girl Cooks recipe.

Salmon rice bowls aren’t just trending—they’re timeless. With clean ingredients, minimal prep, and a build-your-own-bowl energy, it’s no wonder people across New Jersey are swapping takeout for this fresh favorite.

  • High in protein and omega-3s
  • Perfect canvas for local produce
  • Endless flavor combos
  • Ready in 30 minutes or less

From Hoboken apartments to Cape May kitchens, this is one of those meals that just makes sense.

Looking for the full recipe with ingredients and step-by-step directions? You’ll find it right here in our Recipes section.

🔥 The Secret’s in the Sauce (Miso, Baby)

What sets this bowl apart? A miso marinade that’s sweet, savory, and packed with umami.

You don’t need to overthink it. A simple blend of white miso paste, soy sauce, honey, garlic, and sesame oil takes your salmon from basic to chef’s kiss in under 20 minutes. Let it marinate while you chop your veggies or steam your rice. The result? A caramelized outer layer with deep flavor that melts into every bite.

Pro tip: Want to take it next-level? Finish the salmon under the broiler for that perfect crispy glaze.

🥬 Build-Your-Bowl, Jersey Style

The beauty of a salmon rice bowl is how flexible it is. Start with a base of steamed jasmine rice, brown rice, or even cauliflower rice. Then pile on whatever toppings speak to you.

Some of our favorite combos:

  • Classic Crunch: Shredded carrots, edamame, cucumbers, and scallions with a drizzle of sriracha mayo
  • Garden State Greens: Avocado, microgreens, local radishes, and a soy-sesame vinaigrette
  • Korean Twist: Kimchi, gochujang, pickled red onions, and sesame seeds
  • Shore-Inspired: Grilled corn, cherry tomatoes, and Jersey peaches in season

Throw in some toasted nori or a soft-boiled egg and you’ve officially made a restaurant-level bowl at home.

⏱️ Fast, Flavorful, and Family-Friendly

This isn’t one of those meals where the kids turn up their noses or the ingredients break the bank. With salmon widely available at NJ grocery stores, fish markets, and Costco runs, it’s easy to keep on hand. Frozen salmon fillets? Totally fine.

The best part? It all comes together in about 30 minutes. That’s faster than most delivery apps—and way more rewarding.

📍 From Your Kitchen to the Shore

This summer, don’t be surprised if you see versions of this bowl popping up on menus from Asbury Park cafes to Montclair bistros. But why wait?

Whether you’re feeding your family, impressing a date, or just cooking for one, this salmon rice bowl is proof that New Jersey eats well—even when we’re in a rush.

Ready to start cooking? Head over to our Recipes section for full instructions, chef tips, and more locally inspired dishes that bring big flavor with minimal fuss.

Explore New Jersey. Eat well. Live flavorfully. Visit Jersey Girl Cooks.